tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48173849547235699132024-02-07T02:12:00.206-07:00ARIZONA TRAVELERCopenhagen, DenmarkKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.comBlogger398125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-85686702386336850032016-12-31T05:00:00.000-07:002016-12-31T05:00:18.055-07:00FOUNTAINS ABBEY - CASTLE HOWARD - RIEVAULX ABBEYWow! What a day! First, we had the perfect breakfast at <a href="http://newtonhouseyorkshire.com/" target="_blank">Newton House </a>in Knaresborough where we stayed two nights. Everything our host, Denise, served was homemade. Bread, granola, jams, all so good. The mushroom and farmhouse cheddar cheese omelette was also delicious. I would return just for her yummy cooking--I actually wrote about this in my travel journal which is why I can write about it now 1 1/2 years later!<br />
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After breakfast we went straight to <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden" target="_blank">Fountains Abbey</a>--a well-preserved 12th century Benedictine Monk Abbey. Really spectacular. We walked and walked staying three hours.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Church of St. Mary the Virgin on the grounds at Fountains Abbey</td></tr>
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Next stop planned was <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rievaulx-abbey/" target="_blank">Rievaulx Abbey</a>. On our way to Rievaulx we saw a sign for <a href="http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/" target="_blank">Castle Howard</a> and made the decision to veer off our schedule and squeeze in a trip to that famous house. This is what I love about a flexible schedule and having a car. We arrived at 3:30 and the last entrance into the house is 4:00. We roamed around--no guide. So fun!<br />
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You remember Castle Howard--Brideshead Revisited (both adaptations) and other films. It is an 18th century grand house--Earl of Sandwich lived here at one point.<br />
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There were times we felt we had the whole place to ourselves. It pays to stop by just before closing.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hydrangeas tucked in the window of the stairwell</td></tr>
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Afterwards we headed out to the back lawn and over to the Atlas fountain and then on to the rose garden and vegetable gardens.<br />
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Raced over to <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rievaulx-abbey/" target="_blank">Rievaulx Abbey</a> in the nick of time--last entrance was 5:30 and it was 5:25. Rievaulx is a 14th century ruins of an abbey and it is another well-maintained beauty. <br />
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Dark clouds started rolling in and before we knew it the rain hit. But that didn't stop us from scampering across the slick stones. <br />
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It was a beautiful and fun day--love changing the schedule to take advantage of what pops up. <br />
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Ended the day having dinner at Honey Bee's in Knaresborough--comfort food in a tiny little house where nothing matches. Everything made from scratch and when we needed to take some dinner to my sister who wasn't up for dinner out, the owner sent along her dishes (no takeaway containers) and said, "Don't worry about it. I'll stop by Denise's tomorrow and pick up the dishes." Aren't small towns the best?Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-68102579948879677942016-12-28T03:53:00.000-07:002016-12-28T03:53:06.537-07:00Raby Castle and Garden - Middleham Castle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Onward to the next castle--<a href="http://www.rabycastle.com/" target="_blank">Raby Castle</a></div>
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This is another large estate where the owner, Lord Barnard, actually resides. Or at least he did the summer of 2015--I just read where he passed away earlier this year, he was 92, and it seems he was well-liked. The interior did not have the same lived-in feeling that Alnwick Castle had.<br />
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There is a deer park where we spotted loads of baby deer in a protected area and beautiful walled gardens. <br />
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Gorgeous zinc planter<br />
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Just over that wall are the old stables turned into a little tea room where we had a good lunch. I love the tea room lunches one finds on some of the grounds of castles and country houses. We usually find that the food tastes as if made by the local church ladies--delicious. <br />
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Drove down the road a bit and toured <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/middleham-castle/" target="_blank">Middleham Castle</a>--childhood home of Richard III.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Middleham Castle<br />
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These ruins were very well-preserved and the surrounding town so pretty. After this stop, we drove on to Knaresborough to stay a couple of nights and tour a few more ruins and castles--will report on those beauties, next!<br />
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-44899006887583243072016-12-26T05:00:00.000-07:002016-12-26T15:07:22.702-07:00Alnwick Castle and Garden - Aydon Castle - Cragside House and Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Boxing Day! I am trying to catch-up on my long neglected blog. Here we go.<br />
Loved visiting two spectacular castles and gardens in one day. From Lindinsfarne (I reported about this visit back in May--I'm sure you weren't holding your breath for the next installment, right?) we drove straight to <a href="https://www.alnwickcastle.com/" target="_blank">Alnwick Castle</a> and the next day, on to <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/aydon-castle/" target="_blank">Aydon Castle</a> and <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside" target="_blank">Cragside House</a>.<br />
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No pics allowed inside Alnwick Castle. I would have loved to have a pic of the family living area of the castle state rooms. The Duke and Duchess of Northumberland have found a way to make a few grand rooms feel very cozy. One of the cozy touches included a few faux fur covered bean bag chairs in front of the large screen tv--perfect for kids watching movies. We practically had the place to ourselves so I walked through the interior several times just to soak it all in. Alnwick Castle is famous for several things including serving as the exterior and interior scenes for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films as well as a few Christmas scenes for Downton Abbey.<br />
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The famous Grand Cascade<br />
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The <a href="https://alnwickgarden.com/" target="_blank">gardens</a> have been restored by Jane Percy, the Duchess of Northumberland. Really spectacular.<br />
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The above path curves around the backside of the famous fountain. So peaceful.</div>
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This is the Poison Garden. Must be guided through--and no smelling the plants. Seriously. <br />
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If I lived in the area of Alnwick Castle and Gardens, I would definitely buy an annual pass. So much to see here. Loved every minute. Kudos for Jane Percy--she has created very interesting gardens.<br />
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The next morning we drive to <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/aydon-castle/" target="_blank">Aydon Castle </a>which is a well-fortified, pretty much intact 13th century manor house.<br />
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Being from the dry climate of Arizona, I absolutely love moss-covered stones. Just look at that!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cragside House and Gardens</td></tr>
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On to Cragside House and Gardens. I didn't love the house (Victorian) but the grounds were fantastic--after we toured we drove a six mile route through the grounds of the estate. Yes, six miles.<br />
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One of the views from the house.<br />
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On to the gardens<br />
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This is why I love English gardens. Stunning colors, pebbled pathways, abundance of good design, sometimes a water feature, and usually an interesting written sign or two. What's not to love?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alnwick Gardens - the Grand Cascade</td></tr>
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Well, after a long absence from my blog, I am hoping to catch-up on my posts for this trip from last summer! As in 2015 last summer. Because I did take some pretty great trips in 2016, too. I am way behind....xo<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-24544613471309750752016-05-22T17:51:00.000-07:002016-05-22T17:51:40.530-07:00LINDINSFARNE CASTLE <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every few summers we travel to Oxford to take a class and live on campus--<a href="https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/courses/details.php?id=134" target="_blank">The Oxford Experience</a>. I've posted about our previous trips in the past--loved every one of them. Our Oxford Experience trips are combined with a one week visit to a country we haven't traveled and then an additional five nights somewhere new to us in the English countryside. <br />
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Last summer we chose Northumberland England and loved every mile of it. We flew from Bergen to Oslo to Edinburgh and then drove about 90 minutes south to <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle" target="_blank">Lindinsfarne Castle</a> on Holy Island. Apparently I did not take the classic picture of Lindinsfarne Castle but that is most likely because I was driving across the tidal causeway. Kind of exciting checking safe crossing times before we scheduled our trip. <br />
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This is the view from the garden designed by Gertrude Jekyll. Gertrude designed the gardens and area surrounding the castle while Edwin Lutyens renovated the interiors back in the early 1900's. What a treat to see their work in person.<br />
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The above pic is one of my favorite rooms in the house and it just kills me I couldn't get a better shot--it was dark in the house and crowded--that is my sad little excuse.<br />
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Edward Hudson, founder and publisher of Country Life magazine, bought this property in 1901. At the time, it was a crumbling castle built sometime around the mid-1500's. Hudson commissioned Edwin Lutyens, a young architect, and Gertrude Jekyll, famous gardener, (otherwise known as Ned and Bumps!), to transform the place and make it Hudson's holiday retreat.<br />
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The Study<br />
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The walled garden with the North Sea on the other side<br />
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Gertrude Jekyll's work is impressive--cannot image having success growing flowers with all the wind, stony ground, and right on the coastline. Of course, that's why it's inside a walled garden.</div>
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The classic Lutyens garden bench</div>
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Next stop: Alnwick CastleKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-48049524989277927402016-03-19T06:30:00.000-07:002016-03-19T12:56:03.383-07:00SCANDINAVIA - AfterthoughtsLoved every minute of our trip to Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. But here are a few thoughts on what I would do differently as well as what was just right. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the path to The Little Mermaid - Copenhagen</td></tr>
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When I began planning this trip it was a very busy and stressful time with work and my church calling (organizing a women's conference). So, I used a travel agent to book flights and help me with a few things. I let him talk me into taking flights between Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo. We have always preferred a combination of trains and cars. The flights were definitely less expensive, but the added stress of airplane travel and such wasn't worth it. We would have preferred taking the scenic route that trains and cars afford. Even if it took a bit longer or cost a bit more. Should have listened to my gut on this. Lesson learned.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copenhagen Harbor</td></tr>
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We also needed one more night in Stockholm to get a better feel for that city. Two nights just not enough. I like to pack a lot into touring a big city but I also like at least a half day for wandering and observing--no time in Stockholm for those pleasures.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stockholm</td></tr>
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Norway requires more time on the fjords--pictures don't do it justice. We met a darling and intrepid couple from Los Angeles, Marjorie and Dave. They said they once made the same mistake taking flights in between closely connected cities/countries when they knew they preferred the more scenic route, too. This trip, they spent more time traveling by ferry, car, train and loved it. And they went deeper into the fjords. Ferries are abundant and you can hop off and on staying in various villages and hiking as you go. We met a few families with small children and teenagers who were doing that and loved it. They unplugged from phones and tablets enjoying each other and the spectacular countryside.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute Marjorie and Dave</td></tr>
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And, always, always book a <a href="https://www.norwaynutshell.com/" target="_blank">Norway in a Nutshell</a> tour. I have been to Norway twice and have booked this tour both times. You can customize this tour to suit your needs and time constraints. It is a brilliant plan and is an effortless way to tour the beauty of the fjords and its villages.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Norwegian countryside</td></tr>
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We relied greatly on ground transportation to and from hotels and airports and only took two taxis. The subway/train system in Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo is superb. From what we experienced, there were escalators and elevators galore and no station had only stairs for entry and exit. Stairs are miserable when you are dealing with luggage. The trains we were on just sailed right into a clean station with an escalator just steps away. Heaven.<br />
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There was one time we absolutely should have taken a taxi and that was from our Copenhagen train station to our hotel. Instead dragged our four-wheeled luggage over serious cobblestone streets THE ENTIRE WAY--we felt (and looked) like idiots and I may have used a curse word or two (or at least thought them).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Norway</td></tr>
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We packed just right for these cooler weather countries. Layers work so well for traveling, don't they? My new found love is the <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/barbour-summer-liddesdale-gilet-vest/3263641" target="_blank">Barbour Summer Liddesdale Gilet</a>. I wore it every single day over long-sleeved shirts and sometimes underneath a thin unlined Eileen Fisher raincoat, plus a scarf. Worked beautifully.<br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-51788445990776952432016-03-12T07:00:00.000-07:002016-03-12T07:00:02.457-07:00NORWAY 2015 - A Piece of Heaven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I read once that when planning a trip to the Scandinavia countries, visit Norway last because everything pales in comparison. I would agree.</div>
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This was my second trip to Norway--land of my people. Should have done some genealogy research but did not. That just means I will return, right?<br />
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We overnighted in Oslo and then caught the early morning train that goes to Bergen. Last time I did the reverse all in one day. This time we stayed overnight in Flam which was heaven. A vacation from our vacation. <br />
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The <a href="https://www.norwaynutshell.com/" target="_blank">Norway in a Nutshell</a> tour is a series of tightly scheduled trains, busses, and boats that takes you from Bergen to Oslo or Oslo to Bergen. You can make it a one day trip or stay overnight at various stops.<br />
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There is no tour director--just hop on and hop off depending upon your ticket. It is easy peasy. Except, when you book make sure you don't just book the trip--you need a confirmation with assigned seats on the trains/bus. When I went to pick up the tickets at the train station, the traveler next to me had booked his trip through a travel agent but his agent didn't take care of the confirmation with assigned seats and all the trains were sold out. I felt so bad for him. I booked mine online through a Norwegian tour company and had no problem.<br />
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We didn't want to fuss with our luggage so I used a <a href="http://www.porterservice.no/" target="_blank">porter service</a> to pick up our bags in Oslo and transport them to our Bergen hotel for us. We each took one small bag for our overnight in Flam. Best decision! <br />
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This is Flam. We arrived, checked into the <a href="http://fretheimhotel.no/en/" target="_blank">Fretheim hotel</a> and had lunch at the Bakkastova Cafe--I highly recommend. And it was warm enough to sit outside. <br />
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Very peaceful and quiet after the tour boats and cruise ships depart.<br />
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We had plenty of time to tour around on bikes and to take a hike above Flam.<br />
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Felt like a Midsummer Night's Dream with these fun little artistic pieces scattered along the sides of the hills on our hiking path. <br />
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We rode bikes alongside the river to see this pretty church from the 1600's.<br />
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We took the ferry out of Flam and spent a few hours traveling along the fjords and stopping occasionally to drop off passengers at small villages such as the one above. </div>
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Cloudy skies but no rain.<br />
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We arrived in Bergen and after checking in to our hotel walked over to take the funicular and look at the layout of the city.<br />
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The above view is looking out west and the view below is to the east. Around 10:00 pm.<br />
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We spent 24 hours in Bergen. Took a walking tour, shopped, went to the museum, and ate delicious fresh fish. Rained most of the time we were there which is usually the case for Bergen. But when you dress appropriately it really isn't a big deal.<br />
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We lucked out and attended the Karen Bit Vejle psaligraphy exhibit at the Bergen Museum. What's psaligraphy, you ask? The art of drawing or painting with scissors. You probably already knew that. <br />
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That gorgeous artwork is hand-cut by the artist out of one piece of paper.<br />
I would like to return to Norway and spend more time along the fjords stopping off at villages, hiking, and staying a few more nights--one night on the fjords was not enough!<br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-51072563384306022652015-09-15T19:55:00.004-07:002015-09-15T19:55:41.702-07:00STOCKHOLM - More Time Needed...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Preparing to land in Stockholm. It's not often I see a view like this!<br />
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First stop: <a href="http://www.vasamuseet.se/en/" target="_blank">Vasa Museum</a>. Built in the early 1600's, the Vasa ship sank on her maiden voyage. In 1961 she is pulled out of the harbor and preservation begins. It was fascinating to see this beauty in person!<br />
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Love, love, love carved wood. Hard to believe this was sitting at the bottom of the harbor for over 300 years.<br />
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Nybroplan harbor<br />
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Peonies galore - $10 for 5 stems or $17 for a bouquet <br />
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From the Vasa museum it is a short walk to <a href="http://www.skansen.se/en/kategori/english" target="_blank">Skansen</a> - the famous open air folk museum founded in 1891. Skansen is all about the traditional rural life showing off farmhouses, small villages, gardens, and animals.<br />
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There were a few allotment huts to tour and they were darling. After World War I, families who lived in the city were given a little piece of land to grow vegetables and fruits. Most of these gardens were tended by the woman of the house. I'll bet it was a nice little respite from city life to have a little gem of a getaway while planting and harvesting the crops.<br />
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A few of the bare necessities<br />
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This cute gal dressed in the outfit of the time reading the latest fashion magazine (from the 1940's) while finishing up her lunch. <br />
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More gardens at Skansen<br />
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Hollyhocks, red wood siding, paned windows, checkered curtains. Divine.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seglora Church from the 1700's brought over to Skansen in the early 1900's</td></tr>
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This is the fencing just outside the church </div>
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Oh, the lines of a Swedish clock - just right<br />
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Church ceiling<br />
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Framed artwork painted right onto the walls<br />
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This is Gamla Stan, Old Town Stockholm<br />
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A bit of roaming around Gamla Stan before we had to leave for the airport<br />
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The architecture in Old Town Stockholm made my heart sing<br />
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Here is my regret about Stockholm--wish we could have spent one more day. We only had two days--needed three. One day to roam around seals the deal for me in getting to know a city. We didn't get the full flavor of Stockholm but we sure loved what we did see! Oh, and the Swedish Meatballs were the best ever! Onward to Norway...Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-14649713774501409192015-08-29T07:00:00.000-07:002015-09-07T08:37:13.699-07:00A FEW DAYS IN COPENHAGEN - BLISS!Well, hello there! It's been over a year since I've posted anything. What better way to get back in the game then to share a few pics and details about my most recent trip--heaven it was! <br />
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One week in Scandinavia, five days in Northern England, a week at Oxford participating in the Oxford Experience, and a few days in London. Three-plus glorious weeks in spectacular countries.<br />
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It's too exhausting (for me, anyway) to include everything into one post so I will devote several posts to this trip. Hope I can remember how to do this...here we go....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copenhagen</td></tr>
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It's always fun to start planning a trip figuring out where to go. My friend, Leslie, and I participate in the Oxford Experience every few years. This was our fifth year! We always visit another country before we head to Oxford and this year it was three of those gorgeous countries that make up Scandinavia--Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. And this time, my sister Tammy joined us. Super fun!<br />
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We started in Copenhagen arriving at the train station after 8:00 pm. By the way, the metro from the airport into the city is the way to go--even with our luggage. Less than 15 minutes, escalators and elevators and all for $6 each way! Then we made a mistake--we should have taken a taxi to our hotel from the metro station. Instead, we rolled our bags over cobblestone streets for what seemed like forever (supposedly a 7 minute walk from metro to hotel--nope) and I tried not to make eye contact with anyone. Too ridiculous. But, that's part of the education of travel, right?<br />
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Spectacular weather in Copenhagen for the few days we visited. Cool breeze, bright blue skies with white puffy clouds and a few dark clouds for contrast. <br />
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The night we arrived we did the obligatory trek to see The Little Mermaid--a 20-30 minute walk from our hotel along the canal path. Since it was light until after 10:00 pm it was a perfect first night site to check off our list and get some exercise in after the long flight from Phoenix.<br />
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Snapped this pic around 10:00 pm<br />
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Walked by this row of gorgeous homes on the way back to the hotel from the Little Mermaid.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Come unto me"<br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/11?lang=eng" target="_blank">Matthew 11:28</a></td></tr>
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After breakfast we went straight to the <a href="http://www.domkirken.dk/" target="_blank">Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke)</a> to see the original Christus by Bertel Thorvaldsen who died in 1844. My spirit was lifted just standing in front of this welcoming magnificent piece.<br />
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The words written above the resurrected Christ, "This is my beloved Son: hear him" <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/mark/9?lang=eng" target="_blank">Mark 9:7</a><br />
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Along the sides are the twelve Apostles. Peter is depicted above holding "the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shalt be bound in heaven" (<a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/16.19?lang=eng#18" target="_blank">Matthew 16:19</a>)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosenborg Castle Gardens</td></tr>
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After taking in the beauty of the Christus and the works of Thorvaldsen we walked over to the Rosenborg Castle and Gardens. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8EoLYSJblVk-0-obdfi-prWha7mbQccC24XKg9Y525UKq92WhMaqgxMcL1mpgi5_qMZLv_zOjPMYIZ802dA8_0xp-nsRfwYk4yjTzmUs4WEJUAy26FgBkx4rg6nyeiVq26nlubGrHL_P/s1600/IMG_5806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8EoLYSJblVk-0-obdfi-prWha7mbQccC24XKg9Y525UKq92WhMaqgxMcL1mpgi5_qMZLv_zOjPMYIZ802dA8_0xp-nsRfwYk4yjTzmUs4WEJUAy26FgBkx4rg6nyeiVq26nlubGrHL_P/s640/IMG_5806.jpg" width="518" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosenborg Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf8_EbtQdDv-lJimgr9ZveZzaKoT58e4ibCl3hIjC3kCeY7ypQicpmWdPU8gPtgLOUMR8vGUaIfJov5i3Mw05juiQMKjwVtE9V9uqo9BG531r8i5AVc2QkqkEuEjXA_2_i3NcQJ8RKHkh7/s1600/IMG_5809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf8_EbtQdDv-lJimgr9ZveZzaKoT58e4ibCl3hIjC3kCeY7ypQicpmWdPU8gPtgLOUMR8vGUaIfJov5i3Mw05juiQMKjwVtE9V9uqo9BG531r8i5AVc2QkqkEuEjXA_2_i3NcQJ8RKHkh7/s640/IMG_5809.jpg" width="374" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Details, details</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tOzOli43Gb0qRI-HmhlhFETVB1XYv3QKWA-hz3VfZWr1mS1e80Ce30hPGgXhNyWdfSBYeHxhnShn3jYb7o_Xao_3hlllNvaeaMjfOCyNADglmlVEO9_DzFB1lY8D9jtDsRtvJxfj_7hV/s1600/IMG_3442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tOzOli43Gb0qRI-HmhlhFETVB1XYv3QKWA-hz3VfZWr1mS1e80Ce30hPGgXhNyWdfSBYeHxhnShn3jYb7o_Xao_3hlllNvaeaMjfOCyNADglmlVEO9_DzFB1lY8D9jtDsRtvJxfj_7hV/s640/IMG_3442.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Which one is your favorite? </td></tr>
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I'm not a fan of animal heads all over the place but I liked this guy--plus he's a wood carving.<br />
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Attention to detail in this pretty stairwell.<br />
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I've always heard that Denmark has the best pastries in the world. Ummm, yes, Denmark does have the best ever. The above pastry was hands down the best I've ever had--it's a yummy sugary cinnamon snail roll drizzled in chocolate called a Directors Snail. Had one for breakfast every morning at our hotel--wish I had one right now.<br />
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This dahlia pic represents our time at the Tivoli--don't ask me why this is the only pic--the gardens were very pretty and we went on one ride. Stayed about an hour. If I had kids with me, would have stayed longer.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"> Took a train and then a bus out to Frederiksborg Castle - easy, peasy - and it's always nice getting out of the city and into the country a bit.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frederiksborg Castle </td></tr>
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Our reason for traveling 45 minutes out of Copenhagen was to see over 20 original Carl Heinrich Bloch paintings of Jesus Christ--these beautiful paintings did not disappoint. The above depicts the angel Michael comforting Jesus following his time in the garden of Gethsemane. <br />
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I love the exuberant greeting that Elisabeth is giving to Mary<br />
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Just look at that ceiling!<br />
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The gardens were very Danish--neat and tidy.<br />
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Lunch with a view<br />
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A bike or two....<br />
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Lots of clean, simple style in Denmark -- bikes everywhere - women in skirts and dresses riding bikes to and from-- couldn't get a good pic of anyone actually on a bike to illustrate because they zipped by so fast. Fresh fish/seafood as you can image. Danish pastries galore. And the city is very clean--did not see trash or graffiti. We walked everywhere putting in around 20,000 steps daily--which was good given all the good food. Only took a taxi once and that was back to the metro station to return to the airport. Although I would recommend taking a taxi from the metro station to the hotel for any new visitors (unless you travel with only a backpack but I doubt any backpackers are reading this blog!). <br />
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Next post: Stockholm</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-40366993782137631752014-08-03T20:27:00.002-07:002014-08-03T20:27:17.163-07:00THOUGHTS FROM AN AUNTIE TRAVELING WITH HER NIECEFirst, let me tell you that my niece is not your typical sullen 16-year old. She is delightful, smart, and curious about everything. I wasn't nervous about this trip until a good friend of mine asked if I was stressed about being in charge of my niece's safety. Umm, no, not until right now, I thought.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last night in London - <a href="http://www.athenaeumhotel.com/" target="_blank">hotel</a> splurge - loved it!</td></tr>
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And, I really wasn't. I'm a seasoned traveler and raised by two parents who were very safety consciousness. I say my prayers and then try not put myself in tricky situations. Meaning, I don't walk down dark streets, hang my purse on my chair in restaurants, stand too close to subway/tube doors, stay out too late (mostly because I'm an early to bed, early to rise girl), etc. Of course, bad things can happen no matter what you do to take precautions, but so far so good in my travel experience.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A no agenda day in London</td></tr>
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I looked for the least stressful way of doing things on this trip. For instance, we flew non-stop from Phoenix to London which, while more expensive, was easier than a connecting flight. And instead of flying to and from Paris out of London, I knew it would be less stressful and far more fun to take the train. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nancy Mitford Plaque on Curzon Street</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">We also stayed at hotels which included breakfast--a huge time saver and made for an easy start to the day.</span></div>
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Typically when I travel, I'm all about getting up early and hitting the road. This time I booked later trains, didn't rush through breakfast, spent one day in London and one day in Paris without an agenda. This all helped reduce stress and tiredness. And I wanted my niece to experience the joys of wandering through neighborhoods and parks without a schedule or plan.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.purdey.com/" target="_blank">James Purdey & Sons</a> holds the Royal Warrants for guns and rifles </td></tr>
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My niece also needed a break from a lot of decision making, so I made a rough outline of our trip based upon her interests, and presented her with just one or two daily choices. First trips to Europe are overwhelming so I tried to keep her her head from spinning too much!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last night in London dinner at <a href="http://www.rules.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rules</a></td></tr>
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I booked ahead special restaurants for first and last nights in London--The <a href="http://www.thewolseley.com/" target="_blank">Wolseley</a> and <a href="http://www.rules.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rules</a> (a family favorite). Favorite Paris restaurants were booked once we arrived in that gorgeous city (although my favorite, <a href="http://www.maisonconstant.com/cafe-constant/en" target="_blank">Cafe Constant</a>, doesn't take reservations).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijRr6AfqFYsXvayZtUyzI5eo8GQAQtEVUPBGke7auN8DYvZLwhxHfP0mvEnq3pU-Yev_j1xjnlJNulm5NPhKKpDxL-DMfHiaKryUVGFJTwKocO04-JkLrNTyvOUYtJ26J4MgOVKR2jaTgi/s1600/IMG_2558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijRr6AfqFYsXvayZtUyzI5eo8GQAQtEVUPBGke7auN8DYvZLwhxHfP0mvEnq3pU-Yev_j1xjnlJNulm5NPhKKpDxL-DMfHiaKryUVGFJTwKocO04-JkLrNTyvOUYtJ26J4MgOVKR2jaTgi/s1600/IMG_2558.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fortnumandmason.com/" target="_blank">Fortnum and Mason </a>window shopping</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFAYLwQz-S_iEoFmkUWc1R1YptQBwzVNhzvAQKzKuUkCnLU719ZSQJPtyzcMFJkvfNNTQby9B2bzeM529T9koNTCg_ggGOA5YEL-TiBk8dvmWQxn2DXJeQku4yv7hdL_hE4rdmvjKPbhs/s1600/IMG_2564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFAYLwQz-S_iEoFmkUWc1R1YptQBwzVNhzvAQKzKuUkCnLU719ZSQJPtyzcMFJkvfNNTQby9B2bzeM529T9koNTCg_ggGOA5YEL-TiBk8dvmWQxn2DXJeQku4yv7hdL_hE4rdmvjKPbhs/s1600/IMG_2564.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last night visit to <a href="http://www.fortnumandmason.com/" target="_blank">Fortnum & Mason</a></td></tr>
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A joyful trip to two beautiful cities with a delightful traveling companion. I really couldn't have asked for more.<br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-82216780041088880212014-06-14T17:13:00.001-07:002014-06-14T17:13:23.624-07:00PARIS WITH A 16 YEAR OLD - Part II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We headed out to Versailles for a look see. The temps plummeted that day and we were not properly wrapped up. But, hey, we were at Versailles so who cares?<br />
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I must have taken 20 pics of these gorgeous halls and ceilings so I will share a few with you.<br />
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No matter which way you look, gorgeous colors, designs, texture, art...<br />
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Clean lines in cool colors in the entrance halls and then a bit more embellishment once inside...<br />
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I love these window latch details<br />
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It was freezing--not kidding. Our teeth were chattering so we quickly posed and then headed back to Paris.<br />
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The rest of our trip was spent wandering the streets of Paris, going to museums,<br />
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eating French delights, and people watching.<br />
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And, a trip to <a href="http://www.berthillon.fr/" target="_blank">Berthillon's</a> is always a must!<br />
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Love the doors in European cities<br />
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For our last night in Paris, this brave 16 year old tried escargot (snails). She didn't love it but she's glad she tried it. I ate them up--they were served in a pesto sauce--so delicious.<br />
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Now, back to London for one more night and then home. Our trip wrap-up is up next!<br />
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-26043052231043475462014-06-01T17:35:00.002-07:002015-08-28T15:36:24.109-07:00PARIS WITH A 16-YEAR OLD Part I<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After four nights in London we were off to Paris! This girl was excited.<br />
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We immediately left our hotel, the always wonderful <a href="http://www.hotel-paris-bosquet.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Relais Bosquet</a> and walked straight to the Eiffel Tower.<br />
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Happy, happy!<br />
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The next two stops were for me--<a href="http://www.angelina-paris.fr/en/" target="_blank">Angelina's</a> for thick, creamy hot chocolate......my niece doesn't care for chocolate. I know, right?<br />
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And then to Longchamp to look at this gorgeous bag (which I later bought at my favorite Paris department store, <a href="http://www.lebonmarche.com/en.html" target="_blank">Le Bon Marche.</a>)<br />
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I mentioned that I added one new place to visit for myself on this trip so we are walking to<br />
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the <a href="http://www.marmottan.fr/uk/" target="_blank">Musee Marmottan</a> which is found in a little neighborhood on a pretty street--it was raining so I was lucky to get this quick snap. What a spectacular permanent Monet exhibit--worth the visit.<br />
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Of course, the Lock Bridge is now a must-see. Can't remember what the actual name is for this bridge. Note: Thanks to Mary and to my niece, the name of the bridge is Pont des Arts. <br />
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<a href="http://www.history.com/news/history-lists/8-things-you-may-not-know-about-hammurabis-code" target="_blank"> The Code of Hammurabi</a> - The Louvre<br />
The Code of Hammurabi was on my niece's must-see list. I'm sure you know exactly what it is--I'm embarrassed to say I had never heard of it or at least I didn't retain the information if I had studied this way back in the day. It is a code of laws dating back to around 1754--before Christ. Pretty cool. This is tucked away in a part of the Louvre that I had never been to. <br />
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Amorino's<br />
No, we didn't share three ice creams--we met up with a friend of my niece who is lucky enough to be doing a study abroad in Paris. Wouldn't that be fun?<br />
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Back later for Paris II.....Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-54750723744204069402014-05-12T19:03:00.000-07:002014-05-12T19:03:30.527-07:00LONDON WITH A 16-YEAR OLD - Part IIIt's another beautiful London day so let's start with a walk to Kensington Palace. I've been to London a dozen times but never toured Kensington--odd, right?<br />
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We walked from our hotel and stopped at this darling flower corner--<br />
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Passed by this cute sign....<br />
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But wait, first we need to pop in to the L.K. Bennett shop....look at those gorgeous bags!<br />
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But, I digress. Back to the Palace.<br />
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And, voila, there she is. Kensington Palace.<br />
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Of course, I've been to the gates of Kensington Palace, but never toured the place.<br />
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So, of we go....<br />
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I loved the various exhibits at Kensington. All were well put together and cleverly laid out.<br />
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Sitting in the window sill you could hear a little audio about court gossip--very fun.<br />
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Up the King's Grand Staircase darling lanterns are posted with little characters representing the various staff members of the palace.<br />
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Here are a few of my favorite imaginary must-have household staff...<br />
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Lady of the Bedchamber....all around assistant to the Queen<br />
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The Chocolate Maker...every home/palace needs one of those, right?<br />
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The Hairdresser...an absolute must.<br />
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Loved this clock!<br />
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Aren't these silhouettes a pretty way to discourage people from getting too close?<br />
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Snapped this pic through the window--crowns atop all of the outside lanterns.<br />
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My niece noted that the UK has much cooler restroom signs than we do.<br />
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Back outside for a bit of a stroll...<br />
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Always a bench photo...<br />
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And this is the only picture I took of the Victoria and Albert Museum--we had lunch outdoors after touring the pearl exhibit. I was not on my picture-snapping game! But nice to prove there was a bit of blue in the patchwork skies.<br />
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We were then off up the street to Harrod's and had dinner at a pub for more fish and chips. I wore a pedometer on this trip (always say I'm going to and never remember to grab the pedometer, this time I did)--we averaged around 22,000 steps a day. Probably the reason we slept so great every single night.<br />
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Here is what greeted us in our pretty hotel lobby at <a href="http://www.sterminshotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">St. Ermin's</a>. So many little details.<br />
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The tea room at St. Ermin's--I regret we didn't take the time to have afternoon tea. But we shall return!<br />
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And this, my friends, are the beehives kept by the hotel to produce delicious <a href="http://www.sterminshotel.co.uk/about-st-ermin's/our-bees/" target="_blank">St. Ermin's honey</a>, which we had at breakfast. Isn't this the coolest? One of the staff members took us on a little tour of the hotel and then brought us to the rooftop to see their beehives. Love this. Perfect hotel for our trip.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-32237385359461393072014-05-04T16:58:00.000-07:002014-05-04T16:58:47.476-07:00LONDON WITH A 16-YEAR OLD - Part IIt is absurd and I have no excuse. For my darling niece's 16th birthday I took her on a ten day trip to London and Paris. Last October. As in seven months ago. Can you believe that I did not post about this magical trip immediately upon our arrival home? Me, neither. I'm in the mood to relive this trip so I think a few posts are in order.<br />
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Let me tell you, it is so fun to go to London with someone who has never been before. You get to relive all that first-time-to-London excitement--it is contagious! This trip was about hitting all the obvious places and at least one new stop for me (both in London and Paris). <br />
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My niece thought everything was a blast from the long lines to clear immigration to the "mind the gap" at the tube stations and even loved the two measly ice cubes floating in her soda.<br />
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We arrived mid-afternoon--first stop was to check-in at our hotel, <a href="http://www.sterminshotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">St. Ermin's</a>. We loved this hotel! Friendly staff, pretty lobby and breakfast rooms, nice touches throughout (which I will show more of later) and the location was perfect for this trip.<br />
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A little vanilla fudge upon our arrival.<br />
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When do you ever find double beds in London? <br />
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Now, off around the corner to <a href="http://www.westminster-abbey.org/" target="_blank">Westminster Abbey</a> for Evensong....<br />
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Then around the corner for <a href="http://www.parliament.uk/bigben" target="_blank">Big Ben and the House of Parliament</a>....<br />
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And then around the corner for <a href="http://www.geronimo-inns.co.uk/london-the-clarence/gallery" target="_blank">fish and chips</a>....<br />
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This cute girl knew she was in London!<br />
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Then a quick dash over to the <a href="http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/" target="_blank">National Gallery</a> and a quick peek at <a href="http://www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/" target="_blank">St. Martin in the Fields</a> ending with dessert in the crypt--she really thought that was neat.<br />
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And finished the night overlooking Trafalgar Square.<br />
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Oddly, on this trip I took most of our pics with my iPhone--even though I had a fabulous camera in my bag. Don't know why, really. I won't do that again. <br />
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Dark clouds loomed throughout our trip but we only had about a day and a half of rain--not bad for London/Paris in October. <br />
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After three and half hours at the <a href="http://www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/" target="_blank">Tower of London</a> I had to drag my niece away so that we could get to the <a href="http://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms" target="_blank">Churchill War Rooms</a> (like me, she loves history) and then over to <a href="http://www.royal.gov.uk/theroyalresidences/buckinghampalace/buckinghampalace.aspx" target="_blank">Buckingham Palace</a> to meet up with some friends of mine who are living just outside of London.<br />
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After another good night's sleep, we were on to the next stop.<br />
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Of course, we had to do the <a href="http://www.londoneye.com/" target="_blank">London Eye</a>--perfect day for it!<br />
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Crystal. Clear.<br />
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We are both fans of <a href="http://www.sherlock-holmes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sherlock Holmes</a> so a stop at the museum was in order.<br />
Lunch at the <a href="http://www.thewolseley.com/" target="_blank">Wolseley</a> (no pic, what's up with that?)--and then just down the street for her first visit to <a href="http://www.fortnumandmason.com/" target="_blank">Fortnum and Mason</a>. She loved it! She is definitely staying in my will, now.<br />
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Bought some of that yummy honey...<br />
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and took home a jar of damson preserves from the Highgrove Estate of HRH Prince of Wales.<br />
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And if you are at Fortnum and Mason you might as well walk on over to <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/" target="_blank">Liberty</a>, right?<br />
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My niece loved this place, too. And, for once, I was at Liberty for a sale--hooray for that! So, I bought a scarf and a few other fun little items.<br />
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Put your glasses away, it's not you. It's a horribly blurry picture but look at all of those gorgeous Christmas crackers! <br />
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Back to the hotel we go--not the grand entrance but a pretty side door. <br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-15537396209856022792014-03-16T17:41:00.002-07:002014-03-16T17:42:19.978-07:00Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry - Meeru DhalwalaWell, hello! It's been a while since I've posted. Nice to be back. Nothing wrong in my world--just needed a blog break, I guess. <br />
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Noticed this recipe in yesterday's <a href="http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304704504579431311006605806" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal</a>. I had all the ingredients on hand minus the scallions (green onions out here in Arizona) which would have finished the dish off nicely but can't say I missed them. This is such a treat! Spicy, sweet, great texture. The recipe notes to bake the dish for 20 minutes--I left mine in for 35 minutes plus another 5 minutes with the chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans). Perfect. Everyone had seconds--give it a try!<br />
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Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry</h6>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Total Time:</span> 35 minutes <span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Serves:</span> 4-6</div>
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¼ cup butter</div>
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric</div>
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1 tablespoon ground cumin</div>
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10 cloves</div>
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1 teaspoon salt</div>
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1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper</div>
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¼ cup light brown sugar</div>
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2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes</div>
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½ cup tomato purée</div>
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½ cup Greek-style yogurt (optional)</div>
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3 cups cooked chickpeas</div>
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Cooked basmati rice, for serving</div>
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¼ cup thinly sliced scallions</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1.</span> Move oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 425 degrees.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2.</span> Set a medium pot over medium-low heat. Add butter and cook until melted and foam subsides, about 2 minutes. Stir in turmeric, cumin, cloves, salt, cayenne and sugar and cook until aromatic, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato purée and squash until well combined. Transfer pot's contents to a large casserole dish and bake on middle rack of oven until squash is browned and easily pierced with a sharp knife, about 20 minutes.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">3.</span> Meanwhile, season yogurt, if using, with salt.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">4. </span>Remove casserole from oven. Stir in chickpeas until well combined. Return to oven and roast, uncovered, until chickpeas are heated through, about 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste. Serve over basmati rice. Garnish with scallions and a dollop of yogurt, if using.</div>
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-28520216901989336142013-11-27T07:40:00.000-07:002013-11-28T10:29:18.964-07:00CHICKEN POT PIE - Ann Romney<br />
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Have you ever made chicken pot pie? I have not. I don't typically make pie crust, rolls, biscuits, that type of thing. But I wanted to take a one-pot dish to my sister for dinner and found this recipe in Ann Romney's new cookbook<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Romney-Family-Table-Home-Cooked/dp/1609076761/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385569497&sr=8-1&keywords=ann+romney+cookbook" target="_blank"> <i>The Romney Family Table</i></a>. This is perfect comfort food. The timing was just right after two days of solid rain here in the Valley of the Sun--highly unusual. <br />
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Admittedly, I cheated with the biscuit topping and used Bisquick--I didn't even roll out the dough but chose to use the drop biscuit style instead. No one complained.<br />
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The only tweaking I did was to add more carrots and celery. And I used a combination of butter and olive oil to sauté the veggies. Everyone loved it! And leftover turkey would be just as good, too.</div>
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HAPPY THANKSGIVING!</div>
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<b><u>Chicken Pot Pie</u></b></div>
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4 cups chicken broth Salt and pepper to taste</div>
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1 chicken bouillon cube 1/2 cup flour</div>
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1 1/2 sticks of butter 1/4 cup heavy cream</div>
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2 onions, finely chopped 1 (9 oz) package frozen peas</div>
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2 large carrots, sliced in rounds (add 2 more) 6 chicken breasts, cooked, and cut into chunks</div>
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1 rib of celery, sliced (add 1 more)</div>
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat the chicken broth and bouillon cube in saucepan until cube is dissolved.</div>
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Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, 2-3 minutes or until blended. Stir in the hot chicken broth. Add the heavy cream, frozen peas, and cooked chicken. Stir to combine. Spoon mixture into 9x13 baking dish. Bake 20 minutes. Top with uncooked biscuits and continue to bake 12-15 minutes or until the biscuit topping is golden brown.</div>
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<b><u>Homemade Biscuits</u></b></div>
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2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt</div>
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4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 cup butter</div>
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2 teaspoons sugar 1 cup buttermilk</div>
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In a medium bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Work in butter with pastry cutter or hands until mixture is crumbly. Stir in buttermilk until just blended. Roll out about 1 1/2 inches thick and cut out with a 3-inch round cookie cutter. Place biscuits on top of chicken mixture and continue baking 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Biscuits can also be baked separately: Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 450 degrees 10-12 minutes</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-38871425228746990032013-11-17T20:18:00.001-07:002013-11-17T20:18:16.196-07:00APPLE CRISP - Cooking Light Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've made a zillion apple crisps, usually motivated by the fact that I have a 38 pound box of Utah apples and can only eat so many apples a day. This is another good apple dessert recipe--not too sweet, and would also be great for breakfast with a little Greek yogurt (pretty sure I've mentioned that before). And my Emma Bridgewater baking dish still makes me happy.<br />
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<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">1/3 cup all-purpose flour</li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">1/2 cup packed light brown sugar</li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">1/3 cup regular oats</li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;">1/4 cup chilled butter, cut into small pieces</li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">3 tablespoons chopped walnuts</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">7 cups sliced peeled Rome apple (about 3 pounds) (I used Honeycrisp) </span></li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">1/4 cup maple syrup</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px 0px 9px;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></li>
</ul>
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<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
Preheat oven to 375°.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, sugar, oats, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon in a medium bowl; cut in butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture is crumbly. Stir in walnuts.</div>
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Combine apple and remaining ingredients in a large bowl; toss well. Spoon apple mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish or 1 1/2-quart casserole. Sprinkle with crumb mixture. Bake at 375° for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.</div>
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-57440781234483739252013-10-28T09:01:00.002-07:002013-10-28T09:14:28.442-07:00CREAM OF ZUCCHINI SOUP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCKsVbG1Q-MWuaRmTZ6dLsvKdtquQDjC2LI-ahXwmm0JUc1tDbzr-Hypnr0cPdfsUhMSDuHxreImRO-kbVE6Y56ZdESPZGJagCWd5TpEpFKbz7q3bY8jPQnOdOLKZtYpZM17gG89Q3nqM/s1600/IMG_2872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCKsVbG1Q-MWuaRmTZ6dLsvKdtquQDjC2LI-ahXwmm0JUc1tDbzr-Hypnr0cPdfsUhMSDuHxreImRO-kbVE6Y56ZdESPZGJagCWd5TpEpFKbz7q3bY8jPQnOdOLKZtYpZM17gG89Q3nqM/s400/IMG_2872.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finally making soup! Found this recipe and doctored it up a bit. Easy and good flavor, nothing fancy--even better the second and third day. Side note: Boy, do I love my Staub pumpkin pot. It sits atop my stove from late September through November looking so pretty and autumnal (love that word).<br />
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<u><b>Ingredients</b></u><br />
2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil or both (I used both)<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
2 chopped zucchini squash<br />
2 cups chicken stock/broth<br />
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<br />
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt<br />
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg<br />
1/2 cup half and half cream<br />
Shredded Cheddar cheese to top (optional)<br />
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Sauté chopped onion in butter/olive oil until soft and transparent. Add chopped zucchini and sauté for 5 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to boil; simmer for 15 minutes until zucchini is tender. Add seasonings. Puree mixture until smooth (do it in batches if hot) and return to saucepan. Add half and half cream adjusting seasonings to taste (I added a smidgen more of pepper and nutmeg). Reheat but do not boil. Optional: add shredded Cheddar cheese to top individual bowls. (I did not add the cheese but I'm sure it is delicious.)<br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-24020380101438493302013-09-01T20:38:00.003-07:002013-09-01T21:10:20.297-07:00ARGENTINIAN RED SHRIMP PESTO PIZZA <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKwnxbYqOZNoZ5ydHO_wyqKXWKYWxfNPAqcih_dwI7gKRWF-RvbbW-N6gJr0rm4jK2XrXhmpoi0ahVVrUtiPcYLbcmZVfzRO9OsHBucDaNMHlZFBKVaOupmCTrc-XceyyRT8svUK3TGfWA/s1600/IMG_2646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKwnxbYqOZNoZ5ydHO_wyqKXWKYWxfNPAqcih_dwI7gKRWF-RvbbW-N6gJr0rm4jK2XrXhmpoi0ahVVrUtiPcYLbcmZVfzRO9OsHBucDaNMHlZFBKVaOupmCTrc-XceyyRT8svUK3TGfWA/s400/IMG_2646.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Happy September 1st! Except that it's starting to freak me out how fast this year is going. Seriously.<br />
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But, I calmed down once I realized I had all the ingredients for this yummy pizza and quickly put it together today--loved every bite. One more recipe to make with Trader Joe's Argentinian Red Shrimp which I had stashed in my freezer. The pesto sauce, flatbread, and goat cheese were all Trader Joe's brand as well and just perfect.<br />
<b>Ingredients for 2 pizzas</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
12 shrimp<br />
2 whole wheat flat bread<br />
1 tablespoon pesto sauce<br />
1 clove of garlic, minced<br />
salt and pepper<br />
1 tablespoon olive oil<br />
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella<br />
2 tablespoons goat cheese<br />
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<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Saute shrimp in olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper, until shrimp are cooked (5 minutes)<br />
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Spread pesto sauce on pizzas, add cooked shrimp, sprinkle with mozzarella and goat cheese<br />
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Bake pizzas at 350 for 15 minutes until cheese melted<br />
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Note: I cannot remember where I first saw this recipe (it is all over the blog world) so I cannot give it proper credit!<br />
<b><br /></b>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-9941634371298324642013-08-21T22:26:00.003-07:002013-08-23T11:21:03.284-07:00LOTUSLAND <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ever been to <a href="http://www.lotusland.org/" target="_blank">Lotusland</a> in Santa Barbara? I hadn't even heard of it but was intrigued when I was reading that hidden in an upscale residential neighborhood was a private garden with 37 acres of thousands of plants from around the world. And that a visit would require a reservation plus a $35 entrance fee for a guided tour that was offered only twice a day. Really? </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06Q7g6GX9LUbD5iqAES_p3F1AI07GjKfPiEKBqbbnvpI6GK-XhEX0auR6B8fpFZEG1x_9K4VkYBZOJC0-KDP4Bln12UcYz2x8fmZYVyopG79Hro1H50zOqSBrjYLbkYQivNjeX6Z8X-Vl/s1600/IMG_2497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06Q7g6GX9LUbD5iqAES_p3F1AI07GjKfPiEKBqbbnvpI6GK-XhEX0auR6B8fpFZEG1x_9K4VkYBZOJC0-KDP4Bln12UcYz2x8fmZYVyopG79Hro1H50zOqSBrjYLbkYQivNjeX6Z8X-Vl/s640/IMG_2497.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotus Flower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was worth it. But, I wouldn't bring the kids for this two hour guided tour if I were you.<br />
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In a nutshell, the owner of the property was Madame Ganna Walska who was a beauty from Poland, married six times always increasing her net worth as she went along. She discovered a love of plants and became a collector of rare plants from around the world never satisfied with just one or two of a species but amassing a bundle. I counted more than 16 separate gardens throughout the property.<br />
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So, let's go!<br />
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One was never enough for Madame Walska.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA3FxrwTwjpUT8FFfb1MRgcH7KA53eXdRkySGRhyphenhyphen9dEPmMpd5drtrCtArKHIIvMxp1pOJNRCncXTq9Ld_C0lxEEgx7pTXbhHsNieGHJ5pXlM5ABBZN8_FQp4XGOy5MRzg8QThZYojTNRMp/s1600/IMG_2419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA3FxrwTwjpUT8FFfb1MRgcH7KA53eXdRkySGRhyphenhyphen9dEPmMpd5drtrCtArKHIIvMxp1pOJNRCncXTq9Ld_C0lxEEgx7pTXbhHsNieGHJ5pXlM5ABBZN8_FQp4XGOy5MRzg8QThZYojTNRMp/s640/IMG_2419.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Five hanging baskets of this succulent on this tree alone.<br />
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Pathways all over the estate are lined with this blue-green glass that she had shipped in by the truckload. It is leftover glass from the Arrowhead Spring Water bottling company. If Madame Walska liked something she bought it in abundance.<br />
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When we were kids, my sisters and I had a badminton set (net and all) and this plant above reminded me of the shuttlecock. Agree?<br />
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This beautiful orange cone is from the cycad family.<br />
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More of the "if one bromeliad is good, a hundred are even better" school of thought. This is just a smidgen of bromeliads.<br />
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My sister and I debated the above pic for a bit. Don't you think all these blooming cacti look like a pack of Meerkats? Or the periscope in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?<br />
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When you live in Arizona, a cacti garden isn't so exciting. But good for Madame Walska for showcasing the whole lot of them. Hopefully they came from Arizona....<br />
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I would have liked to tour her home, but no such luck. It is now the administrative offices for Lotusland.<br />
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A pretty succulent sun dial smack dab in the middle of the grounds.<br />
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This was my favorite water feature. <br />
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Loads of lemons<br />
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I can't imagine anyone ever used this shallow pool because getting in and out would be impossible with the abalone shells guarding the entire edge. Squint your eyes and note the giant clam shell fountains.<br />
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Well, that's the tour. Hope you enjoyed yourself.</div>
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We thought<a href="http://www.lotusland.org/" target="_blank"> Lotusland</a> was worth a visit.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-11553614190359534072013-08-01T19:54:00.000-07:002013-08-01T19:54:32.979-07:00SAN YSIDRO RANCH - Obsessed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You know when you walk into a place, gasp, and think, this is perfection? Welcome to <a href="http://www.sanysidroranch.com/" target="_blank">San Ysidro Ranch</a>. I was perfectly happy at the Four Seasons (I would have to be daft not to be) but had always wanted to see this place for myself. It was seven minutes up the road from the Four Seasons Biltmore.<br />
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Eucalyptus trees line the driveway leading to the property<br />
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You may know the history of San Ysidro Ranch--Vivien Leigh and Sir Laurence Olivier stayed here as did Jack and Jackie Kennedy for their honeymoon. It is a gem of a hideaway.<br />
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The pretty reservation office with the nicest staff who didn't mind me roaming around with camera in hand.</div>
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This lobby is my idea of a perfect family room--wood floors, white walls, lots of pillows and comfy seating. Which is why I am now thinking to paint most of my interior walls a soft white (goodbye Golden Gate, you've served me well).</div>
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Let's drive back to the guest cottages</div>
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Even the parking slips are enchanting</div>
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Climbing roses are in abundance</div>
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Star jasmine climb the posts and clematis covers the pergola</div>
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Another guest cottage</div>
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Hydrangeas galore</div>
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Herbs planted between the paving stones that lead us through an arbor</div>
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So much lavender and rosemary. The fragrance, colors, texture work so beautifully together that when I returned home I planted a bunch around my pool.</div>
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This is the <a href="http://www.sanysidroranch.com/san_dining.cfm#" target="_blank">Stonehouse restaurant</a>. Very swanky dining on the property. </div>
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Vegetable gardens for guest dining (you know, in the restaurants, not for munching away in the garden)</div>
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Hydrangeas along the stone steps </div>
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I did grab the opportunity to tour the Laurel cottage. I didn't take any pics but it was what you would imagine. Four poster bed, stone fireplace, wood floors, comfortable seating area, indoor and outdoor shower. The darling bellman told me everything in the minibar was gratis for guests (which seems only right given the nightly rates start at $600).</div>
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Time to leave. But, I'm telling you, someday I'm going to splurge and stay here for a few nights. Oh, yes.</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-75428778415299804062013-07-26T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-26T06:00:03.976-07:00SANTA BARBARA and MONTECITO--my new faves!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, this little vacation was a piece of heaven. Five days of bliss. Santa Barbara and Montecito have been on my list to visit ever since my friend, Ashley, and her family have been spending July in Montecito. We have similar taste in just about everything so I knew it would be lovely.<br />
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Took the first flight out of Phoenix and arrived around 9:00 am. Too early to check-in so we headed over to the <a href="http://www.santabarbaramission.org/" target="_blank">Santa Barbara Mission</a>. And can I just say that the Santa Barbara Airport is now my favorite airport ever. A bit of style, nice and small, no shuttling anywhere to pick up a rental car. Loved it.<br />
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A very pretty mission, Santa Barbara is similar to San Juan Capistrano Mission (which I actually prefer). But this is definitely worth a stop. <br />
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Yellowed-stone, purple agapanthus, greenery, and little red roofed tile thrown in is a gorgeous combination. Look at that deep window sill.<br />
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Next, we drove to the <a href="http://www.sbbg.org/" target="_blank">Santa Barbara Botanic Garden</a>. Picked up a discount coupon at the airport from one of those little visitor brochures displays.<br />
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It was a bright, hot day in Santa Barbara when we arrived. Still cooler than Arizona, though.<br />
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Love a split log bench. Someday I'm going to do a post of all the benches I've loved.<br />
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Now, time to check-in. The heavens parted and we walked into the Four Seasons Biltmore. We could have just stayed at this hotel the entire time. Staff is friendly and helpful. Rooms are pretty. Common areas all have that Four Seasons touch. And, see that Moravian light fixture? I think that's what I want for my entry hall and library. My only hesitation is how the heck do you change the light bulb?<br />
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Love the Santa Barbara design style. <br />
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Nice stenciling surrounding our door.<br />
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Pretty, airy, comfortable room.<br />
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I've been wanting to try those acai bowls and vacation is perfect for trying those new-to-me foods. First, how to pronounce acai? Ah-sah-EE (accent on the EE)--there, now you know. <a href="http://www.backyardbowls.com/" target="_blank">Backyard Bowls</a><br />
in Santa Barbara is delish. The blue bowl above is a SMALL Island Bowl--yes, small. The smaller bowl is a KIDS size acai oatmeal bowl. If you go, call in your order and pick it up. It is crazy busy and although we ordered quickly and found a table (lucky!) it took quite a while to receive our bowls of goodness. Those in the know called in and picked up their orders to either eat there or take away.<br />
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This gorgeous building is the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. It ranks #2 on Trip Advisor for things to do in Santa Barbara. Yes, it is worth visiting.<br />
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Here is the view from the top--no charge. Elevator or stairs will take you to the top for this sight.<br />
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Hall off the main entrance. Reminded me of Istanbul.<br />
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Back in Montecito in the lower village, we stopped by Scoop for some perfect gelato.</div>
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Salted caramel ice cream within walking distance from our hotel. Tragic.<br />
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Butterfly Beach at sundown. Perfect stress reducer.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-24530046421955812013-07-24T17:46:00.001-07:002013-07-24T17:46:26.477-07:00HOMEMADE TRUFFLE POPCORN <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First--our family loves homemade popcorn. For years I've been using the Whirley Pop by Wabash Valley Farms and love it. Just drizzle a little oil such as olive oil or grapeseed oil. Sometimes I use a chili or vanilla bean infused olive oil--sometimes I use both. Then I add a little kosher salt in the pan, 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels and heat it up. Takes 3-4 minutes for a full pot of popcorn.<br />
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In order to get the yummy salt to fill the little kernels requires a little something to make the salt stick. Love this Trader Joe's Coconut Oil Spray--zero calories! I spray the freshly popped popcorn with the spray and toss on the salt.<br />
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Now, on to the truffle salt. World Market (aka Cost Plus) carries a reasonably priced truffle salt -- about $12.99 instead of $30. The trick with truffle salt is to add a tiny pinch because the flavor and the fragrance is very strong! So, I add the kosher salt and then a pinch of the truffle salt when I want a savory, earthy flavor--love it. Give it a try!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-64829098994066232602013-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-05T06:00:04.417-07:00BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another great treat from my friend, Ashley. How she ever came to think of peanut butter mixed in with all this is beyond me, but it is delicious.<br />
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Serves 2<br />
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1 cup Greek yogurt<br />
1 1/2 cups frozen berries<br />
2 tablespoons of peanut butter or almond butter<br />
2 tablespoons of flaxseed<br />
1 cup of water<br />
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Mix in blender - drink up!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-88493037941975388472013-07-01T09:42:00.004-07:002013-07-01T09:47:36.440-07:00ARABESK - Barbara Nadel<br />
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<i><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1934609358/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1934609358&linkCode=as2&tag=httparizonatb-20%22%3EArabesk:%20Inspector%20Ikmen%20#3%20(Inspectr%20Ikmen)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httparizonatb-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1934609358%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">Arabesk</a></i> by Barbara Nadel<br />
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When you travel do you try to read books that relate to your destination? I've done it a few times but it always had to do with Great Britain (surprise). My friend, Liz, directed me to Barbara Nadel who writes murder mysteries that take place in Istanbul. I downloaded her book, <i>Arabesk</i>, to my Kindle and read it during my visit there last summer.<br />
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Lots of fun to read about real neighborhoods and sites in a fictional book as I roamed around Istanbul. The star of the series is Inspector Cetin Ikmen, who is home on medical leave and getting pretty antsy. So his, protege, Mehmet Suleyman, is in charge of the newest murder investigation. Normally, these exotic names would be hard to keep track of but they became the norm during my travels.<br />
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The story is about the murder of a young mom with connections to a famous music star and an aging actress. Lots of interesting characters who I think are part of the series with a few side stories that also kept my attention. I'm needing an Istanbul fix so I will add another of Nadel's to my reading list<i>.</i><br />
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<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4817384954723569913.post-47412998997923700182013-06-17T15:12:00.002-07:002013-06-17T15:12:32.238-07:00PETER PAN AND A LONDON MEWS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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How about a roam through a park and a classic London mews? The blue skies, no clouds, no rain in sight here in Arizona is getting to me....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos taken by Kimberly Wold</td></tr>
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We will start by entering through Lancaster Gate entrance at Hyde Park. <br />
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Rain has stopped so fingers crossed we can make it through the park and stay dry.<br />
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We'll make a quick detour over to Kensington Gardens to say hello to Peter Pan and pals.<br />
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This statue is a favorite of mine. Sir George Frampton is the sculptor. <br />
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Just look at that detail. Thank you, Mr. Frampton. <br />
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Still no rain, so let's slip down this street and walk about.<br />
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A mews is a little back street of houses that were former stables or carriage houses. Very little traffic so roaming around is even more of a treat.<br />
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Yes, this door is as narrow as it appears. But the high gloss black paint, silver hardware, thick white trim, not to mention the lead planters filled with greenery all make that little door inviting, don't you think?<br />
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The sea glass green paint caught my eye along with the pretty wrought iron balcony. Such a delicate and feminine house front.<br />
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A little left over Queen's Jubilee exhuberence at this flat.<br />
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A nice breeze in the air, scarf around the neck, still no rain, so we will keep walking.<br />
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The black striped garbage can adds an unexpected detail.<br />
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That's it for our walking tour of the mews. Now we need a little break.<br />
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Despite the 108 temps outside, I now have a little spring in my step. <br />
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(All photos taken by Kimberly Wold)<br />
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Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00029895022186304294noreply@blogger.com4