APPLEJACK LANE

Birthday Lunch at Devil's Backbone

2012-01-22T18:17:00.000-05:00

This week was a milestone birthday for Guy-the retirement age birthday. So Dave and Cathy decided that we needed to go to the Devil's Backbone Pub and Brewery in Nelson County for lunch. Guy played golf this morning in 3 !/2 hours so that he would be not be late for our departure time. It was cold and gray in the valley, but on top of Afton Mountain, it was foggy and snowy. Guy didn't have a care in the world. He just sat back, and let Dave do the driving...

After a 45 minute drive, we came to the brewery at the foot of the Wintergreen Resort. The outside of the pub/brewery is a beautiful stone and wooden structure...

The entrance had interesting door hardware, and lighted trees, laurels, and grasses graced the landscape...

We were greeted by many stuffed specimens of wildlife throughout the restaurant...

A wily fox was dressed to the nines...

An elk presided over our side of the dining area...

Here are some mighty full diners with doggy bags to take home. Only the birthday boy ate every morsel on his plate...

My pictures are not the best. With the skies being so gray, the restaurant itself was on the dark side so many of my interior shots didn't make this blog. I hope to return on a sunny day and be able to enjoy the scenery. Meanwhile, Happy Birthday, Guy!

The Holly and the Ivy

2012-01-10T16:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Rednesday from Applejack Lane! I have been featuring some of my snow people during the month of January. I want you to meet a very special snow lady This is Holly Snowflake with her snowball Ivy...

Holly and Ivy were given to me by my friend at Snap Peas...

Isn't her outfit fabulous?

And Ivy just bounces around with her in her plaids and red boa!

Come back soon!

Tabletop Tuesday

2012-01-10T12:16:00.001-05:00

Here at Applejack Lane, snowflakes have made their presence in the past 24 hours. The inside is a little flaky, too, with snow people here and there.

Smiling Snow Faces

2012-01-08T19:00:00.000-05:00

During the Christmas holidays, I use Santas and Gingerbread people at Applejack Lane, So during the month of January, I decorate with snow people. Check out their smiling faces...

Happy January!

An Unexpected Gift

2012-01-07T13:19:00.004-05:00

Hello from Applejack Lane. This week, my niece Beth surprised me with a Christmas gift that she crafted from an old Presbyterian hymnbook.

Since I am Presbyterian and played the piano for my church for about 25 years, she picked the perfect materials. I am not putting this decoration away. I think this angel can stay out on the piano for a long time to come. Thanks Beth!

The Smells Of Christmas

2011-12-20T08:19:00.000-05:00

This morning of the smells of Cathy's freshly baked gingersnaps filled the air of Applejack Lane. Christmas is almost here!

Doggie Advent Tree

2011-11-22T18:53:00.000-05:00

At Applejack Lane, we have granddogs...

Timmy and Burt

and Kahlo

Each year, I make them Doggie Advent trees...

This is T and B's tree with 48 small Meaty Bones tied with red curl ribbon...

I have 24 Meaty Bones for Kahlo's tree...

Now, they will just have to wait until December 1 to start their countdowns to Christmas!

Stone Mill 50 Mile Race Is History!

2011-11-20T19:37:00.001-05:00

Here at Applejack Lane, we have been recovering from a weekend trip to Gaithersburg, Maryland. Cathy ran her first ultra trail race there of 50 miles, and I was the pit crew and water girl. We left on Friday and returned about 11:30 P.M. Saturday night after the race. Needless, to say we are tired, but at much different levels. I couldn't believe how she stuck in there and ended up running 51 miles in a day!

Crossing the Potomac River at White's Ferry sure beat traveling on the Capital Beltway...

It takes four minutes to load, the ferry, five minutes to go across the Potomac, and another four minutes to unload a full ferry...

The race started at 6:00 A.M.with 300 participants. Runners had to use headlamps to see to get started. They ran through all kinds of terrain-wooded areas, fields, streams as well as the sidewalks in the city. Aid stations were a welcome site...

As the day warmed, hats and gloves started coming off...

Part of the race went through the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail...

About 3:00 P.M. it started to get a little chilly again...

This is the house at Stone Mill in the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail for which the race was named. The area had historic locks and canals next to the Potomac River...

This is Cathy about nine hours into the race...

A few miles later with an extra layer for warmth...

THIRTEEN hours later and in the pitch of darkness, she finished running 51 miles! Many runners had to use headlamps again to finish going through the wooded trails and make it to the finish line. Way to go Cathy!

Today, she has had a tough time walking around. I guess she won't be going to the gym tomorrow morning at 5:30 as she usually does!

I'm Ready For Halloween!

2011-10-25T18:58:00.000-04:00

Halloween is pretty simple here at Applejack Lane. I did my decorating in four easy steps since I only have about four Halloween decorations!
Here is my new light bulb...

my little handcrafted ghost...

my favorite fall kitty cat...

and my new handcrafted pumpkin from my friend Valerie at Snap Peas...

Happy Halloween!

Planting 240 in the "Back Forty"!

2011-10-11T14:16:00.008-04:00

The farmers next door to Applejack Lane were plowing the fields in mass this morning because the weatherman called for a lot of rain the next few days. That meant we needed to get on the stick and do our own farming on our "back forty". So, we got to it and completed a new garlic bed just in time before frost comes to the Valley. This has been somewhat of an undertaking. Cathy has wanted a garlic bed since she met a garlic grower at the local Farmers' Market this summer. After some research and reading Paula's blog at Sweet Pea, we made a plan. First, Cathy brought home a load of leaf mulch that was pure black gold to put over our soil on the existing garden. We added some chopped leaves, and hubby tilled that under. After tilling, more turning, and raking, we were ready to plant this morning.

This summer, Cathy picked up eight different garlic varieties from the Farmers' Market for planting. All garlic is not equal. Garlic varies in taste, color, and size.

Red Tosh-one of Cathy's favorites

Oregon Blue

Russian

Chinese

Kettle River

Bavarian

Italian

Musik-very large cloves-can't wait for this one!

Next we peeled and separated each bulb into individual cloves and picked the largest 30 of that variety to plant. The outer cloves were usually the best. Yes, with eight varieties and 30 plants each, we are going to have a lot of garlic if each one matures properly.

I labeled a a baggy to keep each variety separate. Some varieties had more cloves than others, and the cloves in varied in size.

I had to improvise garden labels by using plastic spoons for the time being.

I made a cardboard template to dig the holes. I wanted relatively even rows that had plants every 5 inches apart.

Ten the digging and planting began. A clove has a definite top and bottom so you want to make sure you put the right side down.

I lightly raked the top soil to cover the holes. The next time hubby mows, we will put a layer of leaf mulch on the top. Voila! We are done! Now, we wait through the winter until June to see if the majority of our 240 garlic plants grow!

Does anyone know if squirrels like garlic?

Sunday Morning Breakfast

2011-09-25T09:25:00.000-04:00

Blueberries were on sale this week at the local Martin's. This Sunday morning was the perfect time to try a Paula Deen recipe for Blueberry Gems.

Blueberry Gems

2 cups of self rising flour (I had regular flour so I added 3 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt to the mixture.)
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup whole milk ( I used 2%.)
1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line 18 muffin tin cups with paper liners.
2. Combine flour and sugar in a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, combine the eggs, vanilla, oil, and milk. Whisk together until well combined. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the liquid. Mix with a spoon until flour is moistened. Gently fold in the blueberries.
3. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling about half to two-thirds full.
4. Bake for 23-25 minutes until browned and puffed.

End of the Garden Soup

2011-09-24T17:44:00.000-04:00

The garden at Applejack Lane has come to a screeching halt. With cabbage heads, peppers, and tomatoes finally gathered, I had a dilemma as to what to do with all the remaining bounty. The cool, damp weather helped to decide the answer to this problem. I concocted an End of the Garden Soup this afternoon.

End of the Garden Soup

1 head of red cabbage, chopped

1 large onion, diced

16-28 ounces of tomatoes, chopped (I used a variety of ripened tomatoes that I had on hand.)

2 green peppers, diced

4 carrots, sliced

1 package of dry onion soup

1 14 ounce can of chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

various herbs-rosemary, thyme, oregano, chives, parsley to taste

2 tablespoons of brown sugar

4 cups of water

Combine all ingredient and bring to a rolling boil. Let simmer for about an hour until all vegetables are tender.

Yes, I Can!

2011-08-13T16:02:00.001-04:00

It's been a while since I have posted from Applejack Lane. I've been a little busy. Our little garden (12' by 12') has been rendering a lot of produce for us. I have been spending some time doing a little canning so as to save our bounty as best as possible. I have not canned in years. In fact, I had given away most of my good canning jars to the church yard sale. but I hung on to a few basic implements. So far, the pantry now contains 13 quarts of tomatoes, 4 pints of salsa, 4 pints of peach halves, and this morning I made 5 pints peach salsa. I just had to take a picture of my beautiful peach salsa! And it is g-o-o-d!

Peach Salsa

2/3 cup cider vinegar

6 cups of peaches, diced*

1 cup red onions, diced

4 jalapeno peppers, finely diced

1 1/3 cup other peppers, diced

6 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

4 t. lime juice

1 1/2-2 t. cumin

1/2 t. kosher salt

1/8 t. cayenne pepper

4 t. honey (or less)

Combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer for 15 minutes. Cool for 15minutes. Pour into pint jars and seal. Process in a water bath for 15 minutes. Makes about 5 pints.

*When preparing the peaches, dip peaches in boiling water; then submerge in cold water to peel the skin and seed. Place peaches in absorbic acid to prevent browning until ready to use.

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

2011-07-23T14:10:00.003-04:00

Today at Applejack Lane

Seasonal Sunday

2011-07-17T09:05:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane. With cherries in season during the month of July, Cathy made a special dessert that she saw in the New York Times-Cherry Clafouti.

Cherry Clafouti

1 1/2 pounds (about 5 cups) fresh ripe cherries, stemmed and pitted if desired
2 tablespoons kirsch (she did not use this)
6 tablespoons sugar
3 large eggs
1 vanilla bean, scraped
Pinch of salt
2/3 cup sifted unbleached all-purpose flour
3/4 cup low-fat yogurt
2 tablespoons milk
2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar (optional)
1. Toss the cherries with the kirsch and 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and let sit for 30 minutes. Drain over a bowl.
2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Butter a 10- or 10 1/2-inch ceramic tart pan or clafouti dish. Fill the dish with the drained cherries.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the remaining sugar and the seeds from the vanilla bean. Add the salt and the liquid from the cherries, and combine well. Slowly beat in the flour, and whisk until smooth. Add the yogurt and milk, and combine well. Pour over the cherries, scraping out all of the batter with a rubber spatula.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is browned and the clafouti is firm and puffed. Press gently on the top in the middle to see if it’s firm. If not, return to the oven for five minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and cool on a rack. When the clafouti is warm or cool, sift on the powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Yield: Serves eight.

Delicious!

From The Garden

2011-07-12T13:14:00.001-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. Last night when I perused the garden, I found our first tomato along with a few cucumbers and peppers!

So, this is what I have on my kitchen countertop for today. I'll join Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday.

Grilled Corn

2011-07-09T19:51:00.002-04:00

Good evening from Applejack Lane. My hairdresser, Norman, persuaded me to grill corn this evening for dinner. It was great! Since there was only two of us, I just fixed three ears.
First of all, the corn must be young and fresh-an absolute must. Corn that is too old is just hard and tasteless! I always sneak a peak in the market to see if it meets the standards that my dad and mom taught me to look for. And this time of the year, country markets get the best if you don't have your own garden!

Here is what I did.
1. Peel back the husk, but don't tear away..
2. Remove the silk.
3. For 3 ears, I used about 1/4 stick of BUTTER! ( Does this sound like Paula Deen?)
4. Sprinkle with parsley. I have my own supply dried from my herb garden.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a little salt.
6. Rewrap the green husk over the corn.
7. Tie with a string to keep husk around the ear.
8. Soak corn in a deep pan of water for about 20 minutes.
9. Grill corn for about 20-25 minutes, turning several times. The husks will get dry but should not catch on fire. I put the ears on a second grilling ledge so it does not get too close to the flame.
10. Remove ears from the grill and discard the husks. The corn is buttered and seasoned, ready to eat.
11. Enjoy!

Yummy!

Happy July 4th!

2011-07-04T14:39:00.002-04:00

Happy July 4th from Applejack Lane!

Thanks to Willie Ferguson and Jim Chestnut for constructing these metal sculptures for us Stauntonians and visitors to enjoy this holiday and every day!

Spicey Grilled Shrimp

2011-06-30T07:04:00.004-04:00

What's cooking on Applejack Lane? This week we had Spicey Grilled Shrimp along with wild rice and fresh cucumbers out of the garden. This is a simple and tasty way to fix shrimp on a hot summer day.

1 clove garlic finely minced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

2 Tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons lemon juice

2 pounds of peeled and deveined cooked shrimp

Combine all the ingredients to form a marinade. Pour over shrimp and stir until shrimp is well covered. Let sit in the refrigerator for several hours. Place shrimp on skewers. Grill on each side for 2 minutes. Enjoy!

I am joining Foodie Friday with Designs By Gollum.

An Eagle Has Landed!

2011-06-27T19:12:00.002-04:00

An eagle has landed here at Applejack Lane just in time for July 4th decorating! My friend Valerie from Snap Peas brought me a get-well gift today, and I just have to share him. Here he is- Baldwin, the Eagle! I love his rusty accents and his prominent beak. I am glad he arrived to celebrate the 4th with us! Now, I need to find the perfect perch for him to rest-some place up high, I imagine.

Our friend Brenda from The Rusty Thimble crafted him, and here is some good news to share. Brenda has a has a new giveaway-a dear witch! Check out her blog at The Rusty Thimble to sign up by July 14!

Happy July 4th!

Easy Summer Salsa

2011-06-24T08:15:00.000-04:00

Along with gardening comes the choices of what to do with the produce. Here is an easy, peasy basic salsa recipe. You can double or triple the recipe as needed.

5 large tomatoes diced or two 15 oz cans of petite diced tomatoes
1 finely chopped onion
2-3 hot peppers finely chopped
3 garlic cloves finely chopped
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
cilantro

Mix all ingredients together. Let sit several hours or overnight.
Serve with your favorite chips. We like the Mission strips. You can put a lot of salsa on just one!

Fresh From the Garden

2011-06-22T18:53:00.000-04:00

Cathy's gardening efforts are starting to reap delicious benefits!

Thus far, we have had six perfect cucumbers

and

two messes of sugar snap peas!

The sugar snap peas are great with a little olive oil as a coating and a couple of clove garlics minced with a dash of thyme. Bake at 450 degrees for 6 to 8 minutes.

Happy gardening!

Crossing Rainbow Bridge

2011-05-26T17:29:00.008-04:00

This morning, Mr. Murphy crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. He had been in poor health since before Christmas. He had a cancer around his right eye area that continued to grow with additional tumors showing up in his head area. He went to sleep about 10:15 A.M. at the Westwood Animal Hospital surrounded by those he loved, Guy and Cathy.

Mr. Murph adopted us in October, 1994 when he was about 2 to 3 weeks old. He was so tiny and had a Christmas tree shaped tail. He lived in the bathtub for a period of time. Cathy would come home in the middle of the day while she was a junior in high school to feed him with a medicine dropper until he could fend for himself. I remember the first Christmas that we had him. When we went out to look at the Christmas lights, Murphy was wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a Blazer. His two greatest friends were Miles and Bagel, our two beagles. In fact, for a while, Mr. Murph thought he was a beagle.

Murphy was a wild child and a tough old bird. He outlived his beagle friends and fellow brother cats, Claw Paws and Velcro. Recently, he grew to love his new Husky friend, Kahlo. He and Cathy became best buds in recent months. During the day, he slept under her bed, and at night he crawled up on top of her covers, snuggling against her head and snoring into her face.

Mr. Murph, we will miss you dearly. For almost 17 years, you've been quite a little buddy and companion. Someday, we will meet you at the Rainbow Bridge.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

We're Off To See Picasso!

2011-05-10T08:28:00.002-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane! Tomorrow morning, Cathy and I are off to see the Pablo Picasso exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. This exhibit contains a 176 piece collection of Picasso's favorites in ten galleries of the newly renovated VMFA. The exhibit opened February 19 and will close on May 15 before it moves on to San Francisco. It is remarkable that this collection is only going to be shown in seven cities worldwide, and Richmond ended up being the only one on the East Coast to have it. The VMFA recently completed a $150 million upgrade, and this entered into the decision made in France to include Richmond on the tour. This is a once in the lifetime opportunity!

"Painting is just another way of keeping a diary," once commented Picasso. I guess we are going to have a chance to see Picasso's diary!

Do you know why this lady has two noses?

Bay Scallops In Aglio Sauce Over Pasta

2011-03-22T15:02:00.003-04:00

Good afternoon from Applejack Lane. Today I will share my recipe for Bay Scallops In Aglio Sauce Over Pasta. Enjoy!

1 pound bay scallops (thawed)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup diced plum tomatoes
1 tablespoon capers
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves (chopped)
1 tablespoon dry basil
1 teaspoon oregano
salt and pepper to taste
favorite pasta-I used linguine

In a large saute pan, add two tablespoons of live oil and heat until hot.
Add bay scallops, lightly salt and pepper to taste, and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Once the scallops are cooked through, strain, and set aside.
Place remaining olive oil in saute pan and continue to heat.
Add garlic and cook until tender.
Add mushroom, diced tomatoes, and capers.
Continue to cook and stir for approximately 3 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth.
Add spices, slat and pepper to taste.
Simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
Add bay scallops and lightly toss to reheat.
Serve on top of your favorite pasta.
Add grated cheese if desired.
Makes 4 servings.
Thanks for stopping in at Applejack Lane!

Tuesday Night Supper Club

Foodie Friday

Around Our Town-The Highland County Maple Festival

2011-03-20T19:23:00.005-04:00

Road trip! This morning when I awoke, Cathy informed me that we were going to the Highland County Maple Festival. Oh, joy! Oh, rapture! This has never been one of my favorite trips. When I was younger, we went to Highland about once a month to visit grandparents. There was no TV, and the radio truly played hillbilly music in those days. But, I made the sacrifice today. I called in to church to let them know that I wouldn't be there, and within the hour, we were headed across four mountains to Blue Grass in Highland County-my mother's birthplace!

We stopped by the McDowell Ruritan building where the club members were busy making pancakes, buckwheat cakes, and sausage for an all day breakfast. (Sorry, Jim. I looked at the package of buckwheat flour and found out it was made in Pennsylvania. I didn't think it was that special to bring home to you.) We viewed some crafts there and got information about two sugar camps near Blue Grass.

After crossing Monterey Mountain, we entered Monterey and headed to Blue Grass. Blue Grass was formerly called Crabbottom. Can you imagine telling people you came from Crabbottom? Praise the Lord someone had sense enough to change that town's name! Blue Grass was the location of the silent film Tol'able David back in 1921. My grandmother and mother were part of the crowd scene when mom was two years old. I saw the 90 minute film back in 1959 when it was replayed for the town folks at one of the earlier Maple Festivals.

Our first stop was the Blue Grass Cemetery to check things out and to impart a bit of family history to Cathy.

The Newman stones looked good, but the Waybright foot markers were covered with inches and inches of lichen. It looks as though we will have to make a summer trip back over to do some cleaning.

We checked out the town-pointing out the homeplace which really didn't look like the pristine house it once was. There was no tinner's shop anymore, and the town's multiple stores didn't exist as they one had. I pointed out the area where the dam was that my great-grandfather owned, and told Cathy about Granny's brother and sister sending her to visit him to get money for candy. For some reason, he would give candy money to her so she was the pawn.

Next, we drover to Puffenbarger's Sugar Orchard to check out the maple syrup and the homemade doughnuts.

The Puffenbarger Camp taps over 800 sugar maples a year using plugs, tubing, and huge stainless steel vats for collection and processing. This was a better year for syrup making due to the rise and fall of temperatures throughout the region. Last year was an extremely difficult year since the temperatures were so terribly cold throughout the entire season. The collection this year was up about 7 times. This picture shows the old time way of collecting sap which the large camps do not use anymore.

The Puffenbarger Camp sold homemade maple doughnuts for $5.00 a dozen. These were flying out of the bake stand. My dozen was piping hot and remained warm on our trip back home. Of course, Cathy purchased a large jug of maple syrup to try.

The next stop was the Rexrode Sugar Camp where they tapped about 1000 trees this year. We heard the very same story about how production was so much better this year than last. Cathy had to purchase a jug of Rexrode syrup to compare with the Puffenbarger batch.

A short trip to Hightown took us to Dividing Waters Farm where the headwaters of the Potomac and James Rivers can be found. At one time, my mother's dearest friend returned to her homeplace after living many years in Cincinnati. Beautiful quilt artwork was painted on the barns and outbuildings. Two daughters built homes nearby that also had this quilt artwork on some of the outbuildings. This was a most distinctive touch. We traveled over another mountain before turning back towards Monterey. We saw a highway sign giving the mileage to Elkins West Virginia.

We traversed across still another mountain to enter Monterey from the north. The Highland Inn was serving pancakes and sausage as well. This is an older picture. It was not shirt sleeve weather, and no plants were beginning to look that green. Today, the temps were in the upper 30's.

We stopped to visit many of the craft booths and antique shops. In one shop I found the quilted pot holders that I have been looking for forever! Now I can pitch one set that I have been using since 1985!

So that is our tale of the day. To all the Waybrights and Newmans out there, I hope you enjoyed our jaunt!

Farewell To Wanda And The White Boys

2011-03-13T16:25:00.001-04:00

Last night, a full house in the old Lee High Auditorium was really rocking to the farewell concert of the town's legendary band Wanda and the White Boys. Thanks to Ntelos, the old Lee High auditorium has been refurbished so that the town and the non profit ShenanArts theater group have a home to see plays, musicals, and concerts. It was a great evening to not only to hear this multi talented group, but to visit with many, many old time friends who came out to say goodbye to one of Staunton's jewels.

Here is everybody's favorite band director-Richard Adams...

The band is starting to rev up...

The beautiful Wanda Eaves Taylor...

Richard and Chris Wray add a little jazz...

Mr. Buddy Thomas had his own fan club who chanted, "Buddy, Buddy, Buddy" ...

Mr. W couldn't wait to congratulate Wanda on a great evening of entertainment...

And he got a special hug from his old co-worker...

Thanks for 24 years of great memories!
Couldn't we have another farewell concert from WWB next year?

Making Spring Plans!

2011-02-19T08:58:00.002-05:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane.

The temperatures of the past two days are helping to clear out the cobwebs of winter, and we are making plans for spring!

We need to order tickets to attend the Picasso exhibit in Richmond...

We have to schedule a meeting of the stock group...

And it's time to think about planting a garden...

Yay!!! It's going to be a great day at Applejack Lane!

Happy Valentine's Day to Family and Friends Near and Far!

2011-02-14T19:08:00.002-05:00

It's Valentine's Day at Applejack Lane. Here are our sweeties!

Happy Valentine's Day to all the family and friends!

Miss E's Butterfly Party

2011-02-06T08:17:00.064-05:00

Last night we attended Miss E's fabulous Butterfly Birthday Party! She is turning 1 on Monday, February 7. We had great fun, food, and family time.

And here she is-the fabulous Miss E!!!

And she greets each of her guests...

This is Miss E's beautiful butterfly birthday cake made by her mom. Simply f-a-b-u-l-o-u-s!!!

And this is Miss E's personal birthday cake...

All Southern ladies wear hats especially on their birthdays...

Now it's time for Miss E's taste test...

And what is this? Miss E has a new car!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS E!!!

It's A Marshmallow World

2011-01-26T18:46:00.003-05:00

We've had a rapid-fire snowstorm this afternoon here at Applejack Lane. Everything is a white-out. We even had snow thunder. Our Winterking Hawthorne looks as though big puffs of marshmallow are hanging all over it...

We've had 10 inches of very heavy, wet snow in a very short period of time...

This is not the kind of snow one likes to shovel because of the snow's tremendous weight...

Glad this little fellow is so happy...

I bet he doesn't have to shovel out to get to work tomorrow.

I've Made History!

2011-01-22T09:10:00.009-05:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. I haven't posted in a while because I've been making history. Well, that is not exactly true. It's been more like I have been recording history-our church history, that is.
For the last five years, I have been the historian of our church. Hebron, established in 1746, is one of the five oldest Presbyterian churches in Augusta County which at one time encompassed nine states that ran all the way to the Mississippi River. The history of our county with all the English grants is quite an interesting and colorful one as well.

This is the third building erected on the property in 1901. The second burned on Christmas Eve, 1900 following a wedding. Someone left a fire unattended.

Our Rose Window...

Colonial era re-enactors for our Cemetery Tour...

Back to the history...

I am neither a writer or a historian, but I do the best that I can. But it's printed and placed in our notebook in the jelly cabinet in our Session Room just waiting to be read or collect dust- whatever histories tend to do. I have copies ready to be sent to the Columbia Theological Seminary Library in Decatur, Georgia to be added to the Presbyterian archives. This project takes the better part of my spare time in January, and I am just tickled pink (did you hear that sigh?) that it is done and reasonably accurate. Now I can have a good day at Applejack Lane.

Pink Saturday

Seasonal Sundays

Seasonal Sundays-A Special Package

2011-01-09T15:03:00.002-05:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. This week I received a package that was mailed from over 2700 miles away! It originated from St. Sault Island in British Columbia, Canada and traveled all the way to the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Let's take a peek!

This is a miniature porcelain plate from the Birds of the World series. Pictured is a Golden Oriole which is the only member of the oriole family native to Europe. Pictured with the oriole is the marsh marigold found in Europe and the Northern Hemisphere.

A card comes with the pin that gives information about the bird and the flower painted by artist Joan Campbell.

The porcelain pin is just dear. I thank my BC friends Jan and Chip for sending it to me. I wish you a very Happy New Year!

I am joining The Tablescaper for Seasonal Sundays.

Me- Read 100 Books???

2011-01-04T14:21:00.005-05:00

For Christmas, Mr. W gave me a Kindle. And I got the cover accessory in one of my very favorite colors from Dave.

I am so excited! I have two friends who read voraciously from their Kindles. Therefore, I resolved to read more in 2011 to clean out the cobwebs that are in my brain.
Coincidently, I just read Cousin Kristi's blog Eat your Fruits and Veggies about Book Chick City's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2011. I may not read all the way to 100 books, but anything is better than what I did in 2010. If you would like to join the challenge, click here .

Happy reading!

Organizational Sunday 2011

2011-01-02T17:41:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Applejack Lane. Today, I used some time for organizing for the year. I took two new calendars and marked birthdays, appointments, and any social engagements we have so far. I used yellow to highlight birthdays, blue for appointments, and pink for fun affairs. With that done, it's time to record some goals for the new year!

It's A Gingerbread World

2010-12-16T20:32:00.002-05:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. It's starting to snow! So come on inside to my gingerbread world.

Um-um good- gingerbread spice herbal tea...

My extra large gingerbread man and woman stand in an old picnic basket...

A gingerbread mantel...

Gingerbread cookies and cutters...

This Gingerbread Man has his bells on...

And speaking of bells...

A Ginger Head from Brenda at The Rusty Thimble...

And Gingerbread scones...

Gingerbread Scones from A Taste of Home

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ginger
1.2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup cold butter
1/3 cup molasses
1/4 cup milk
1 egg, separated
sugar

In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ginger, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles course crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the molasses, milk, and egg yolk until smooth; stir into the flour mixture just until moistened. Turn onto a floured surface; knead gently 6-8 times. Pat into a 8 inch circle. Cut into 12 wedges and place 1 inch apart on a greased baking sheet*. Beat egg white until frothy; brush over scones. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes our until golden brown. Serve warm.

* I like a more petite scone. I divide the dough into two equal parts and form smaller circles about 5 inches in diameter. Then I cut the circle into 6 wedges. I bake these for about 11-12 minutes.

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane.

Memories of Momma's Snowflakes

2010-12-14T16:09:00.002-05:00

Momma's snowflakes have been boxed for twenty-two years. This year, I decided to find them and add them to the Christmas tree. I should have laundered and starched them, but if I had that to do, I probably would not have pulled them out . So, impulsively, I just put them on the tree. In her later years, Momma enjoyed an all white tree using white balls, birds, clear lights, and her snowflakes. They bring back such sweet memories of her.

Even Father Kristmas can enjoy a peak at Momma's snowflakes.

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane.

International Cookie Party III

2010-11-17T01:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane. I am happy to share one of my favorite Christmas cookie recipes today. I use this recipe quite often to serve at my Holiday Open Houses and summer Lemonade on the Lawn.

Raspberry Crowns

1 cup butter, softened

1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar

1 large egg, separated

1 teaspoon almond extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup finely ground blanched almonds

raspberry jam

Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add sugar, beating well.

Add egg yolk and almond extract, mixing well; gradually stir in flour. Cover; chill at least one hour.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls; dip tops of balls in lightly beaten egg white, and then in almonds. Make a round indention the center of each cookie. Using a 1/4 teaspoon measuring spoon, place raspberry jam into each indention of the ball.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 13 1/2 to 14 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Yields about 4 to 4 1/2 dozen cookies.

I am joining Johanna at Silber+Rosen for today's party.

International Blog Party Christmas Cookies I

2010-11-03T07:16:00.002-04:00

I have been busy baking cookies, cookies, and more cookies at Applejack Lane for our Open House this weekend at our shop. White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies, Peppermint Cookies, Christmas Tree Spritz, Raspberry Crowns, Ginger Crisps, and Hooty Creeks are all ready for my VIP ladies. Here is my recipe for Hooty Creeks-one of my customers' favorites.

Hooty Creeks

1 cup butter
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
2/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup dried cranberries chopped
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans

Cream the sugars and butter in a bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until the eggs disappear. Next, add the flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the mixture. Mix until well blended. Stir in cranberries, chips, and pecans. The mixture will be stiff.
Using a one-inch cookie scoop, drop on a baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. I tend to bake for 9 1/2 minutes for a softer cookie. Cool on wire racks. Makes about 72 cookies.

I am joining Johanna at Silber+Rosen for her International Blog Party Christmas Cookies I today.

Fire-Roasted Tomato and Spinach Pasta

2010-10-29T07:49:00.001-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. This dish was the recipe of the month at the Lifetime gym at Augusta Health. It is simple and delicious.

Fire Roasted Tomato and Spinach Pasta

6 ounces linguine pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juice

1 (9 ounce) box frozen creamed spinach, thawed

salt and pepper to taste

Cook the linguine to package directions.Drain well.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook 1 minute before adding the creamed spinach. Cook and stir 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in the drained linguine into the tomato sauce before serving.

Enjoy!

Have a Boo-ti-ful Day!

2010-10-18T18:37:00.003-04:00

This is one of my favorite new things at the store for Halloween. I think he makes a great addition to any table top design for the season.
I hope everyone has a Boo-ti-ful day!

Soup For Autumn Sundays

2010-10-09T20:37:00.000-04:00

In the Autumn, cool weather means soup is a great meal for Sunday evenings at Applejack Lane. I found this recipe in Christmas with Southern Living 2001 and have wanted to try this recipe for some time.

Black-Eyed Pea and Sausage Soup

1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, coarsely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
2 (15 oz.) cans black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
3 (14 1/2 oz.) cans beef broth
1 (14 1/2 oz). can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, undrained
1 (16 oz.) jar chipotle-flavored salsa*
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Cook sausage in oil in a large Dutch oven, stirring until it browns. Remove sausage, reserving drippings in pan. Add onion, carrots, bell pepper, garlic, and celery. Saute' over medium-high heat 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in sausage, peas, broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Cover; reduce heat, and simmer 35 minutes. Stir in salsa, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 more minutes. Yield 10 cups.

*If desired, a milder salsa can be substituted.

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off To Work I Go!

2010-10-04T07:55:00.000-04:00

Mr. Kahlo is back at Applejack Lane and is ready to go to work this morning at the Hallmark shop as a greeter.

Have a great Monday!

Autumn Sunday Dessert

2010-10-03T07:53:00.005-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. I found a new bread pudding recipe to try out last Sunday. It is wonderful! I've made it twice already-once for company and once for us.

Cinnamon-Apple Bread Pudding With Hot Caramel Sauce

1 loaf cinnamon swirl bread, cubed-I used Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Swirl Bread
2 cups milk
4 eggs, beaten
1 cup applesauce
1 cup sugar
2 T. vanilla
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/4 t. nutmeg
1/4 cup butter melted and cooled

Place bread cubes in a bowl and add milk to soak. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, applesauce, sugar, vanilla, and spices. Drizzle the melted butter over the bread and toss. Add egg mixture to the bread and stir well. Let stand 10 minutes. Place in a buttered 13 x 9 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool.

Caramel Sauce
18 oz. container of caramel apple dip_ I used Marzetti's Caramel Apple Dip
1/4 cup Half and Half
Cook over low heat until warm and smooth. Add more Half and Half if it is too thick. (I used about half of the caramel apple dip for each time I made the bread pudding.)

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane.

Tabletop Tuesday

2010-09-21T07:40:00.001-04:00

Mr. Pumpkin Angel has made an appearance at Applejack Lane just in time for Tabletop Tuesday.
He parked himself atop Grandmother's twig table...

Just have to love his toothy grin...

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life has more fun at her Tabletop Tuesday party. Drop by to see her!

September Metamorphosis

2010-09-19T17:54:00.001-04:00

Fall officially begins on Wednesday, September 22, and Applejack Lane has made a change or two to get ready for Autumn's splendor. A couple of weeks ago, Valerie from Snap Peas and I had a wreath-making session in her husband's workshop.

Pumpkins, berries, sunflowers, and gingko leaves are a few of my favorite fall things...

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. Please join Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more Metamorphosis Monday fun.

September Silver Sunday

2010-09-12T08:35:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane. It's Silver Sunday time! Today, I want to share a few of my favorite sterling pins. Some were given to me as a high school graduation gift about 43 years ago!

When I was a high school senior, girls in my area were encouraged to pick out a sterling flatware pattern. This is a miniature of Towle's Country Manor.

A family friend whose last name is Rosen gave me the rose pin...

This pin is my favorite. I have always loved cats...

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. Please visit Beth at the Gypsy Fish Journal for more Silver Sunday fun.

Pretty Packages Party II

2010-09-05T11:29:00.001-04:00

Happy Labor Day greetings from Applejack Lane. Yesterday, Mr. W and I attended a wedding of a son of very long time family friends. I wrapped a grilling cookbook and attached a gift card to be used toward the purchase of a grill. Here is my package.

I love the white embossed wrapping paper...

But even more, I love the fall colors in the wire ribbon that I found at Big Lots...

I am joining Jami at The Blackberry Vine for Pretty Packages Party II. Thanks for dropping by Applejack Lane.

Two Old Crows Live Here

2010-08-28T08:02:00.002-04:00

It's beginning to look and feel a little like fall at Applejack Lane. So I changed out the door decor with my sunflowers. It reminds me that two old crows really do live here. This door pocket just makes me smile! It's one of my favorite pre-fall things.

I am joining A Few of My Favorite Things Saturday at Bargain Hunting with Laurie. Thanks for stopping in at Applejack Lane.

Rooster Party II

2010-08-05T16:39:00.003-04:00

Rise and shine! I'm joining in with the Rooster Party II hosted by Barb at Bella Vista. This has been a most anticipated event so here are some of Applejack Lane's favorites.
A rooster vignette on the pie safe with a platter and lamp...

Mr. Cock-a-doodle-do...

A Jim Shore teapot from my friend at Snap Peas...

From my patriotic collection...

A blue milk glass rooster from my MIL's collection of blue glass...

I know it's a chicken, but it's a neat piece from my candy container collection...

A hand made rooster weather vane that came from the family farm...

Thanks for visiting.

Happy Birthday, Stuart!

2010-08-03T08:57:00.001-04:00

Today is a red letter date on the family calendar. It's Stuart's fourth birthday! Stuart was named after my dad, my brother, and his mom. He is quite a character. He enjoys trains, swimming, golf, reading books, and taking care of his baby sister Emma. He plans a pizza lunch with his mom and dad today followed by a round of miniature golf.. Saturday, he will have a pool party with his friends, and he will have a family birthday affair on Sunday. And, yes, Stuart, Aunt Joan will come to your birthday party!!!

Pretty Packages Party

2010-08-02T19:22:00.003-04:00

Happy August from Applejack Lane! Today I am joining Jami at The Blackberry Vine for a Pretty Packages Party. When I started wrapping, I realized that I love green. Take a look at a few packages I've recently done.
One thing you must know is that I cheat. I own a Hallmark shop, and I am showing off some new papers and trims...

Three dimensional trims were used on this birthday package...

Now, this is a practical wrap for a Virginia wine that I recently gave to a friend...

I know the apple is upside down on the finished presentation, but it still works, and the friend could use the wrap...

Thanks for visiting Applejack Lane!

Summer Sundays

2010-07-25T08:56:00.000-04:00

Good Sunday morning from Applejack Lane. One thing about Summer Sundays is LOL-Lemonade On the Lawn!
Here at Hebron Presbyterian Church, Lemonade On the Lawn has become a Summer Sunday tradition...

We begin church an hour early during June, July, and August...

Then, we have plenty of time to socialize under the huge oak trees...

And enjoy Lemonade On the Lawn...

Thanks for stopping by. Please join The Tablescaper for more Summer Sunday fun.

Southern Pimento Cheese Spread

2010-07-22T20:03:00.002-04:00

It's Foodie Friday time again. Today, I am posting a recipe for one of my favorite summer time foods-pimento cheese. One of my greatest food regrets is not getting my mother's pimento cheese spread recipe before she passed away. After years of trying different combinations, this one reminds me the most of hers. This has a little bite to it. So make a batch for your summer time family reunion, bridal or baby shower, or girls' luncheon.

1 8 oz. block* of extra sharp cheddar cheese

1 8 oz block* of sharp cheddar cheese

1 1/3 cups mayonnaise

1 4oz jar diced pimento

1 teaspoon Worchestershire sauce

1 teaspoon grated onion

1/8 teaspoon red pepper

* Block cheese is a must. Preshredded does not work nearly as well!

1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pimento, Worchestershire sauce, grated onion, and red pepper.

2. Grate the cheese using two graters-one with a small shredding side and one with a large shredding side.

For instance, grate the extra sharp cheese using the small size and the sharp cheddar cheese on the large size.

3. Add the grated cheeses to the mayo mixture. Stir thoroughly and chill for several hours. (I use a hand mixer.) For a creamier texture, add more mayonnaise.

4. Enjoy!

This will make almost 4cups of pimento spread..

Thanks for joining Applejack Lane. Please visit Designs By Gollum for more Foodie Friday fun.

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-07-20T18:52:00.000-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane. You never know what you are going to see while driving to work. On Monday, we saw this friendly cow, waving to us in his blue pajamas as we were getting ready to turn into the shopping center to open our store.

A new Chick-Fil-A opened up over the weekend. His signs says "Chicken 4 breakfast ever dawn on u?"

We've enjoyed the antics of this friendly cow and the opening day excitement created by our new fast food neighbors.

Enjoy your Outdoor Wednesday with Susan at A Southern Daydreamer. Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane.

Summer Sundays

2010-07-18T07:40:00.001-04:00

It's Summer Sunday time here at Applejack Lane. I thought I would show you some of my favorite Sunday summertime views from Around Our Town.
This is the rose window at my country church....

It's just pretty relaxing just staring at that window in the summertime with a fresh breeze flowing through the other windows.

Now, I'll show you some rose windows in my brother's city church...

Both churches were designed by the same turn of the century architect T.J. Collins.

Thanks for visiting. Please join The Tablescaper for more Summer Sunday fun.

Can You See Me Now?

2010-07-13T15:38:00.001-04:00

Last summer, I did several posts about Around Our Town. We have a fabulous metal fabricator named Willie Ferguson who creates the most interesting metal sculptures that have been purchases by private businesses and the city to beautify our town. Here is the latest creation that sits outside an optometrist office.

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. I am linking to Outdoor Wednesday hosted by Susan of A Southern Daydreamer.

July Silver Sunday

2010-07-10T19:07:00.000-04:00

Hello from Applejack Lane! It's Silver Sunday time again. Earlier this year, I posted a Silver Sunday piece on baby and nursery rhyme silver. Click here to see that previous post. Today, I want to share a few other baby items that were given to my children when they were born.
Monogrammed mugs...

A special monogrammed silver bracelet for a special little miss...

An antique rattle with teeth marks included for a special little boy...

Baby spoon and fork in Country Manor by Towle to match my silver...

All together now...

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. Please join Beth at The Gypsy Fish for more Silver Sunday fun.

Pink Saturday-July 10, 2010

2010-07-10T01:00:00.000-04:00

This week, Pink Saturday corresponds to our Hallmark Ornament Premiere. I found a few ornaments that meet some of the pink criteria.
Let's start with Barbie. Here we have Prima In Pink...

Movie Mixer Barbie...

It's All About The Shoes...

For Winnie the Pooh fans we have A Friendly Sort of Gift...

Deck the Woods...

Frosty Friends # 31...

Skating Side By Side with Mickey and Minnie...

Hoops and Yoyo have Goodies for Santa?

For those who join the Keepsake Ornmament Club, Christmas Window 2010 is available...

Surrounded by Love benefits the Susan G. Komen foundation...

Bundle of Joy for baby's first Christmas...

Perhaps more mauve than pink is Scarlett O'Hara....

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. Please check out other Pink Saturday posts with our hostess Beverly at How Sweet the Sound.

Foodie Friday

2010-07-08T20:10:00.001-04:00

Last week, I hosted a girls' luncheon at Applejack Lane. I served Paula Deen's curried chicken salad, croissants, fresh fruit, and a most delicious cranberry spinach salad. You may have seen this spinach recipe before, but I think it is worth repeating. I served it again this week adding grilled chicken kabobs marinated in Lawry's Hawaiin Marinade for a heartier meal. It was heavenly!

Cranberry Spinach Salad

1 T. butter

3/4 cup sliced almonds

1 pound baby spinach

1 cup dried cranberries

2 T. toasted sesame seeds

1 T. poppy seeds

1/2 cup white sugar

2 teaspoons minced onions

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 cup white wine vinegar

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1. Melt buter in a small skillet. Add sliced almonds and cook over heat. Cool.

2. Whisk together sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, vinegars, and oil. ( I used a small ball jar to put all ingredientsin and gave it a very substantial shake.) You can refrigerate this mixture until you are ready to serve.

3. Right before serving, pour dressing over spinach, cranberries, and toasted almonds. Toss to blend.

4. Enjoy!

For four people, I halved everything.

Please join Michael at Designs By Gollum for more Foodie Friday fun.

Happy July 4!

2010-07-03T14:10:00.001-04:00

Vacation time for Kahlo is coming to an end here at Applejack Lane. He has just three more days until he goes back to Richmond. In the meantime, he took a little break from chewing bones and sniffing in the yard to wish everyone a

HAPPY JULY 4!

He pauses for a little refreshment...

We are linking this message to Summer Sundays with The Tablescaper.

Fourth of July Julep

2010-07-01T18:19:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Foodie Friday via Applejack Lane. I want to share a special summer drink I dubbed a Fourth of July Julep that I served this week at my ladies' luncheon. It is non-alcoholic so it can be used with all ages.

Fourth of July Julep

1 lemon

1 lime

1 orange

1 64 oz. bottle pomegranate juice

1 2 liter bottle ginger ale, regular or diet

Cut the lime and lemon into slices; then halve each slice. Cut the orange into slices; then quarter each slice. Put fruit pieces into a pitcher.

Pour about half of the pomegranate juice into the pitcher. Chill and allow to juice to marinate the fruit for several hours or overnight.

When ready to serve, pour about half of the ginger ale into the pitcher and stir.

Serve in glasses and add a couple of slices of fruit to each serving. Add ice.

Enjoy!

Please join Michael at Designs By Gollum for more Foodie Friday fun.

A Ladies' Celebration

2010-06-30T20:11:00.002-04:00

This week at Applejack Lane, my friends and I celebrated Ann who retired from teaching earlier this month. Her favorite color is blue so I added a little touch of the 4th of July in the mix.

A table set for four lifelong friends...

A change of service for a dessert course...

A salad fork, iced teaspoon, and ice cream fork was all that was needed for our luncheon repast...

The crystal pattern is Century by Fostoria...

Star napkin rings for the season...

The silver is Fontaine by International Silver. This is my favorite piece-an ice cream fork to eat our lime sorbet...

Tiny blue forget-me-nots on an antique salad plate made by Carlsbad china from Austria...

Queen's Ann Lace and what my dad referred to as "blue weed" for the centerpiece in an ironstone pitcher...

A cozy celebration.for my dear friend...
Please join Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for more tablescapes.

A Salute to the Red, White, and Blue!

2010-06-30T07:01:00.007-04:00

We're getting ready for the 4th of July around Applejack Lane. Please step in and visit a while!
For back door friends...

Betsy Ross..

A kitchen vignette...

What's a celebration without a red, white, and blue watermelon with a few black crows?

My favorite Uncle Sam...

A soft pillow...

A simple project using two materials, star wire, and stuffing...

Even a bunny shows his patriotic colors...

Less we forget our fallen heroes on this day...

God Bless America!

Happy July 4!

Please join Centsational Girl and Anything Goes Here for special July 4th fun!

Blue Monday

2010-06-28T06:27:00.001-04:00

We're having a girls' luncheon here at Applejack Lane tomorrow to celebrate a retirement. I thought I would give a little preview of the table for a Blue Monday.

Thanks for stopping in. Please join Smiling Sally for more Blue Monday fun.

My Favorite Things Saturday

2010-06-26T07:23:00.000-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane! I am so excited to share my new arrival just in time for My Favorite Things Saturday! Recently, Kim at My Domestic Bliss offered a generous give away from her ETSY shop, Larkspur Interiors, and I was the winner. She said I could browse her shop and choose something I liked. I was torn between two items, but finally decided upon one. This week, a package arrived...

and my new tole hand painted tray was inside...

Isn't it lovely? I plan to use it to entertain this week! Thank you, Kim, for such a lovely find! So, remember to visit Kim at My Domestic Bliss and and stop by her vintage shop Larkspur Interiors!
Special thanks to Laurie for hosting this week's My Favorite Things Saturday at Bargain Hunting With Laurie.

The Kahlo Chronicles-Part 2-Kahlo Goes To Work

2010-06-20T19:59:00.008-04:00

Our buddy Kahlo went to the Hallmark store to help me with some late Father's Day shoppers.

When he got out of the car, he was eager to start the day and beat me to the door...

He had several duties this morning.

1. Greeting each customer with a smile...

2. Delivering excellent service to help our customers find that special card or gift...

3. And policing the store to aid in anti-theft control...

Good job, Kahlo!
Since Kahlo has one blue eye and a blue dog tag, , he's linking to Blue Monday.
To read about The Kahlo Chronicles Part 1, click here.

The Kahlo Chronicles-Kahlo Comes To The Country!

2010-06-19T10:32:00.012-04:00

It's Summer Sunday! This is a red letter day for us at Applejack Lane for Kahlo, one of our favorite dogs, has come to the country to spend his annual hot time in the summer time vacation with us. Cathy and her friend Pete are off to Iceland for a two week photo shoot, and Kahlo left Richmond to visit his country friends. He arrived at 9:00 A.M. and has traveled over 100 miles this morning to get here.

Kahlo is an excellent rider...

He travels with his Frida Kahlo bag...

Murphy greets him at the door...

He is already relaxing, trying to stay cool, and making himself at home here at Applejack Lane...

Fun and games, chasing rabbits,and squirrels, oh, my! Kahlo has to be one of our favorite things to share on a Summer Sunday!

Visit Cathy's new blog eat n' run to follow her journal of running and exploring Iceland's terrain.

Do Not Disturb!

2010-06-15T18:17:00.002-04:00

I really hadn't anticipated participating in Outdoor Wednesday. Instead, I thought I was going to prune my Virginia Sweetspires that seem to have gone awry at Applejack Lane.

So I started snipping...

And suddenly, I stopped snipping, and grabbed the camera...

so I could share my findings with you. I hope I did not disturb this robin's habitat too much.

Please join Susan at A Southern Daydreamer for more Outdoor Wednesday posts.

Hurray For The Red, White, and Blue!

2010-06-14T19:47:00.005-04:00

My spool cabinet is a piece of furniture that gets redecorated the most in the keeping room. I am in the red, white, and blue mood for the summer.

Start with a Madame Alexander Betsy Ross doll...

And a patriotic stitchery from my friend Valerie at Snap Peas...

Put them with a pair of kitchen scales and apples, and you get...

A red, white, and blue spool top table for Tabletop Tuesday. Visit Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for more ideas,.

Silver Sunday

2010-06-12T16:05:00.001-04:00

It's Silver Sunday time. I have some coin silver spoons that belonged to my Highland County, Virginia grandparents. I don't know anything specific about them other than in the early 1960's, my grandmother wanted someone in the family to keep them. Sterling Silver is 92.5% silver whereas coin silver has 90% silver. These are made in a very simple Federal style. They do have hallmarks on the reverse side, but I have not researched them. I don't know why there are five and not six or eight.

Please join The Gypsy Fish Journal for more Silver Sunday finds.

Summer Sipper

2010-06-10T20:30:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane. Today, I have a refreshing non-alcoholic Summer Sipper to share with you.

Summer Sipper

1/3 cup sugar

1 cup white grape juice-light white grape juice works well

1/4 cup orange juice

1 (1 liter) bottle ginger ale, chilled

1. Bring sugar and 1 cup water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring often for 3 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool.

2. Stir in juices and chill 2 hours. Stir in ginger ale just before serving.
3. Serve over ice or add frozen grapes.

4. Sit back and enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by. Please join Michael at Designs By Gollum for more Foodie Friday treats.

Just A Little Kitchen Nook

2010-06-08T14:57:00.007-04:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane. I pulled out a lot of my patriotic decor this past weekend. Here is a little kitchen nook I captured.

Please join the gracious Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for more Tabletop Tuesday ideas.

Sharing A Hallmark Moment

2010-06-07T06:51:00.001-04:00

Last evening the Hallmark girls came out for a little picnic after the shop was closed. The weather cooperated for a while so we could eat on the patio.

Here we have Connie, Nicky, and Vickie...

Nicole, Dottie, LeLe, and Connie again...

Nicole, our youngest employee, always puts a smile on our faces...

Iron Chef Guy did the grill work...

And we celebrated Dottie birthday...

We put a big dent into the ice cream cake made by moi...

Happy Birthday, Dottie!!!

A Few Of My Favorite Things

2010-05-29T11:14:00.003-04:00

For weeks, I have been looking at my poppy dresser tray and hatpin holder in my bedroom...

FINALLY, I found the real thing in my flower bed-

There are only two poppy blooms this year, but hopefully, there will be more next year at Applejack Lane.

May's Vintage Alphabet Party

2010-05-22T18:16:00.001-04:00

It's time for the monthly Vintage Alphabet Party Somehow, I missed April's party for letters E and F. So today we are doing letters G and H.

G stands for German baskets. Here is a small collection that I have.

They really may not be called German baskets, but mine are marked Germany on the bottom.

I am not sure of their purpose besides just being decorative. They might be souvenir items since this blue one is marked Souvenir of Detroit, Michigan. If any one knows more, please comment.

For this party, H will stand for that great radio, television, and movie cowboy hero-Hopalong Cassidy. Here are pictures of Mr. W. from the early , early 1950's all decked out in his Hopalong cowboy suit equipped with his six shooters.

This outfit is the real McCoy. Can you see Hoppy's picture on the front?

What would life be without a Hopalong official knife?

I am so glad you stopped by Applejack Lane today. Visit Melody at Etsy Cottage Style for more participants on Vintage Alphabet Sunday.

A Sew-Sew Tabletop

2010-05-17T18:35:00.001-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane! It's Tabletop Tuesday "sew" we are going downstairs for our party today.

I have some antique sewing collectibles atop my modern day sewing machine...

A pin cushion box with some favorite sewing craft books...

Inside the drawer, a few thimbles...

A few gadgets- a rug hooker and needle cases...

Darners...

Advertising items such asMorralls Mulberry Toilet Pins made in England...

A wooden sewing box with great dove tailing...

Filled with scissors...

Another type of pin cushion box...

And a paneled daisy lamp by which to sew...

"Sew" long from Applejack Lane. Thanks to Marty from A Stroll Thru Life for sponsoring this event.

Piccolini Pasta Salad

2010-05-13T21:04:00.002-04:00

Happy Foodie Friday from Applejack Lane. Today, I want to share a never fail pasta salad that has oodles of flavor. I hope you will try it for a great summer side.

Piccolini Pasta Salad
3 cups dry piccolini pasta, cooked according to package directions and drained
1 large onion, chopped
1 10 oz. package frozen baby peas, thawed-I only use about 1/2 bag
1 2.8 oz. bottle Hormel Real Bacon pieces
2/3 cup quality mayonnaise
2/3 cup Ranch dressing
1 cup Kraft Three Cheese Crumbles
1 cup halved grape tomatoes

Layer cooked pasta, onion, peas, and bacon pieces in a bowl.
Mix mayonnaise and Ranch dressing together. Spread over pasta mixture.
Top with cheese crumbles and tomato halves.
Place halves face down to prevent moisture loss.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate at least four hours or longer. The flavor gets better with time.
When ready to serve, mix all ingredients gently, coating pasta completely.
Serves 10-12.

Enjoy!

Join Michael at Designs By Gollum for more Foodie Friday favorites.

Tabletop Tuesday

2010-05-11T07:53:00.001-04:00

It's Tabletop Tuesday time here at Applejack Lane. Let's pop out the door and see the table my grandmother made.

I recently found a gift certificate that was given to me for Mother's Day in 2007 to one of my favorite shops. WOW! How could I have gone this long and not redeemed it? Long, long story. So, I purchased this birdhouse...

Added my Fenton red bird...

Bought a button leafed fern from my friend Dwayne...

And Grandmother's table is complete!.

Would Miss Janice like my color scheme? It's my very favorite!

Thank you Marty from A Stroll Thru Life for hosting Tabletop Tuesday.

Tabletop Tuesday

2010-05-04T07:20:00.002-04:00

Good morning from Applejack Lane! It's been a while since I have participated in Tabletop Tuesday since I haven't changed any tabletops. But this weekend, the roosters came out of hiding and settled on the top of the kitchen pie safe.

A colorful platter...

I know, roosters don't lay eggs, but something had to go in the middle...

A lamp I put together..

Thanks to Marty from A Stroll Thru Life for hosting this event each week.

Frazzled!

2010-04-30T21:09:00.000-04:00

I've been swamped for the last week at the store. Click here to see what I've been doing!

Special Announcement

2010-04-28T18:27:00.002-04:00

We interrupt this blog for a special service announcement.

Happy Birthday Hal!

We hope you have a wonderful day and can get out to the fishing hole real soon!

From all of us at Applejack Lane!

April Rudy Day

2010-04-25T16:55:00.000-04:00

     It just sneaked up on me-April Rudy Day-and I am not ready. I was in charge of a church luncheon this weekend, and there went Saturday and Sunday.. This means I am three stocking stuffers and two Hermie gifts shy for the monthly goal. Maybe I can make it up tomorrow by taking a little trip to Target if our store is not that busy.
     I have been giving the office party some thought. I want to do an auction with the girls again with a different twist. I need to start buying up some gift cards that would be of interest except they will not know what gift card is in the auction package. It is sort of a blind auction with a 50 penny limit for money. I am just trying to decide upon a teaser to get them pumped up about each package I have dolled up. Just trying to improve upon last year's fun.
     On thing is done for April-money in the bank for gifts and entertaining!

A Few Of My Favorite Things Saturday

2010-04-24T08:51:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Applejack Lane on this A Few of My Favorite Things Saturday. I am a retired school teacher. One of my first "school collections" was started by hubby-ABC plates

This is the first plate that started my collection. Of course my MIL found it and suggested that he give it to me for Christmas...

My sister-in-law gave me this religious plate for Christmas one year...

Some can be small like this one only 5 inches in diameter...

Ben Franklin's maxims...

Tin plates...

Two alphabets share this plate...

A rabbit plate for Spring...

Special English mugs...

A creamer, bowl, and mug...

I have over 30 pieces to my collection and I still continue the hunt.

Thanks for joining me today. Visit Bargain Hunting with Laurie for more Favorite Things Saturday and Chari with Sunday Favorites.

Sunday Favorites

2010-04-18T08:26:00.004-04:00

I am joining Sunday Favorites today. This was originally posted exactly one year ago. It my "stroll through memory lane."

I am back at Applejack Lane after a little four day excursion to Tampa, Florida.This was my first trip to Florida so we explored as much of the outdoor environment as possible in those short days.

Beautiful foliage, plants, and flowers abounded everywhere...

I felt like DeSoto and Ponce deLeon setting foot into the Gulf of Mexico for the first time.

These oak trees sure look different than the ones in Virginia. They have shallow roots and limbs can grow to touch the earth. Love the Spanish Moss...

We visited the Everglades. What's a trip to Florida without an alligator

or two...

Cathy took a kayak trip.

This was such a lovely door handle to one of the shops in Ybor City. Everyone should have one!

Love the pink buildings of Tampa and St. Peterburg. ..

This is one of the beautiful sunsets from our accommodations at Little Harbor Inn...

This was a trip I enjoyed two times-once in going and once returning home to Applejack Lane.

Thanks to Chari @ Happy to Design for hosting this party.

Today Is A Red Letter Day!

2010-04-14T18:46:00.007-04:00

Today is April 15th- a day for tax deadlines and tea parties. It's also a day for special birthday parties!!!

Happy birthday to my brother Jim

and

Amy!!!

Yes, Jim and Amy are both are celebrating birthdays today!!!

Jim, the tax man, is having a celebration. How appropriate for April 15! He is one in a million!

And Amy, Cathy's good friend, has a special day, too! It looks like she has already been celebrating! She is one good egg!

May you both have many, many more great April 15th birthdays!

Remember: Birthdays are good for you!

What's So Special About April 13th? Hmmm...

2010-04-13T07:31:00.007-04:00

It's April 13. What's so special about today? Hmmm....It could mean that it is only two days away from Brother Jim's birthday

Or it could mean that today is Shirley's birthday!

Yay, Shirley's birthday!!!

Shirley moved to Richmond with several of her girlfriends immediately after graduating from Madison College. It is a special treat to get to visit with her. She is always smiling and enjoys a good laugh. She has so many family memories to share about our grandparents and her mother and father. The very first time I went to Richmond was to visit her. (I think I went out on a date with her and her then boyfriend Hal). In 1961, she married Hal which made the family very happy . She is the mother of Leslie and a very busy grandmother helping to care for Ben and Meredith after school.

Here she is with her wonderful family...

So if you happens to be in the Maidens area today, please wish our Cousin Shirley a very happy birthday!

Happy Birthday!

P.S. Stay tuned , Hal. We'll get you in a couple of weeks!

Silver Sunday Bunnies

2010-04-10T15:17:00.002-04:00

It's time for Silver Sunday at Applejack Lane. I have some bunnies to share before they hop away for the season.
A silver butter dish...

A close up and personal view of the Mr. Bunny finial...

I've shared this before, but it's good for one last time- a bunny feeding spoon...

Thanks for stopping by today. Please join Beth at Gypsy Fish Journal for more Silver Sunday fun.

My Favorite Things

2010-04-09T16:52:00.002-04:00

It's A Few of My Favorite Things Saturday, and right now my favorite things just happen to be outside my window.

The apple trees at Applejack Lane are just beginning to bloom...

So is the bleeding heart...

First blooms of a Cherokee Brave dogwood....

My new birdhouse that I picked up today...

Thanks to Laurie at Bargain Hunting with Laurie for hosting this party..

White Wednesday Time

2010-04-06T19:00:00.001-04:00

It's White Wednesday time here at Applejack Lane. With the temperatures reaching 90 degrees today, thoughts of getting the outside set for summer entered the picture. I pulled out an old twig table reportedly made by my grandmother. My dad was lucky enough to claim it, and years later, so was I.

Now the question-to paint or not paint?
Hopefully, next week I'll add a few Springy things.

Thanks to Kathleen of Faded Charm Cottage for hosting this blog party.

It's A Spring Cloche Party!

2010-04-02T13:42:00.001-04:00

Things have been busy here at Applejack Lane, and I am a little tardy for the party. But I am here at last! I can't wait to see the other cloche designs. Maybe I can file some ideas away to use. Thanks to Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for hosting this event once again.

In this cloche is an old German iron rabbit given to me by an uncle...

A Fenton rabbit in a tiny cloche...

This collection of eggs is not in a cloche, but it is cloche enough...

Happy Easter!

Welcome Spring Luncheon

2010-03-29T19:34:00.001-04:00

Spring has sprung, and Applejack Lane is ready for a cozy luncheon for two. I love this small marble top table that we have downstairs. I think it is neat to use it without a cloth. For color, I am using soft greens, yellow, and blues found in the napkins...

My daffodils always have a tendency to disappear with cold weather so I quickly cut a bouquet for the table and put them in my ironstone pitcher...

I changed position of the napkin and sherbet dish for these shots...

The sterling is my MIL's.There is quite a story behind her flatware...

Mr. Bunny is reminiscent of candy bunnies of the past...

Mrs. Bunny in her foil finery...

Sherbets removed...

This set of plates has a pink and blue to correspond to the green and yellow ones I am using...

The luncheon plates are an old Bavarian china pattern that my MIL gave me about 40 years ago...

Dainty Forget-Me-Nots on the rim...

Salt and pepper egg shakers...

Fostoria Century glassware...

Thanks so much for stopping by Applejack Lane today...

Please come back soon!

Thanks to Marty from A Stroll Thru Life and Susan of Between Naps On the Porch for hosting tablescape parties this week.

A Few of My Favorite Easter Things

2010-03-26T14:50:00.003-04:00

I am so excited to show you a few of my favorite Easter things from Applejack Lane. I particularly like old and country things to display. Here are a few of my antique and vintage finds mixed with some new ones that I keep out all Spring.

My antique scales which I can use every season along with my new rabbit from The Rusty Thimble...

An old German iron rabbit given to me by an uncle under a cloche...

A country rabbit made by a local crafter...

I just had to add the green bow...

No post lately would be complete without a look at my dough bowl of Victorian Easter eggs...

Another local craft find with some brown eggs to boot...

My childhood Easter basket that is close to 60 years young...

One of my ABC plates ...

A sterling bunny baby spoon...

Another country bunny with a brown wooden egg that my daughter gave me...

Merry Easter!

I am linking to Bargain Hunting with Laurie for My Favorite Things Saturday and Joan at Anything Goes Here for the Vintage Easter Blog Hop.

March Rudolph Day

2010-03-25T07:23:00.001-04:00

Today is March Rudolph Day. I have a few things I need to do so I won't get off track this year.
Three goals this month:
1. Money in the bank-check
2. Look for four stocking stuffers and two Hermie presents today at BAM and Michael's
3. Try out a new cookie recipe.

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-03-23T20:17:00.002-04:00

Today is Outdoor Wednesday, and I've started doings some gardening chores the past week here at Applejack Lane.
I've hung my new house flag...

and have started to access the winter damage in the gardens and yard. We've had a very severe winter here in the Shenandoah Valley and some of my plants don't look so hot.

Can this plant be saved???

My lavender plant is just completely flattened. Piles of snow buried for about three months this winter.

Enter plant guru Andre' Viette into the picture. Andre' is a nationally acclaimed horticulturist, author, lecturer, and radio personality who lives in the area .

He has a weekly radio show on Saturday mornings called In the Garden in which he fields questions from a call-in audience about problems with gardens and landscape plants. He and his son Mark are just exceptionally personable and knowledgeable. At least once a week other than Saturdays, he or Mark make themselves available to radio listeners in the area to further answer gardening questions. That's where my lavender plant came in. He suggested that I cut my plant back to about eight inches now and wait to see what happened. He thought it would resurrect itself.

To learn more about Andre' Viette, click here. You can sign up for a monthy e-newsletter that helps you organize monthly gardening chores, learn about new plants, lectures, and activities at the Viette nursery. He operates a fabulous wine and daylily festival

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane. Pray for my lavender plant. It went through quite an amputation today.

White Wednesday

2010-03-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

White Wednesday rolls around so quickly here at Applejack Lane. With Spring upon us, my whites turn to Easter decor.

A bunny...

a lamb...

and a bowlful of Victorian eggs...

Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane this week. Kathleen at Faded Charm Cottage has more White Wednesday fun.

Blue Monday

2010-03-21T18:04:00.001-04:00

It's Blue Monday time. I decided to pull out one of my daughter's dolls. I haven't seen the box and tags in so long that I can't remember if this is Alice or Goldilocks. She was not a doll child, but Baba thought she had to have a collection of Madame Alexander's just the same.

She's blue from her eyes...

To the tips of her blue toes.

Enjoy your Blue Monday. Thanks for stopping by Applejack Lane!