Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Holy Cow

WARNING- viewer discretion is advised with the reading of this post, it contains graphic scenes.
Yesterday we took a drive to a little town called McBain, population not many. My mom is originally from there, she grew up on a dairy farm with her 4 sisters and 1 brother. My uncle Carl now owns and runs the farm and we love to go and visit whenever we can.

It was such a great day yesterday to be outside and enjoy the last day of great weather. My Aunt Donna flew in from Florida to visit for the weekend so it was great to see her again as well.

My Grandma Bos and Abby having some bonding time in the rocking chair after lunch.

Abby loved all the different animals, and at this age showed no fear.

One of the horses just wanting to give her "kisses"
Abby face to face with a cow that would rather lick her feet than the block of salt.
Trying to get some cute fall pictures, but being very distracted with the white cats.

I guess it has been a few years since my last visit to McBain, because I would never missed the construction of 2 wind turbines (not sure if this is the correct name for them). In the middle of miles and miles of fields there are 2 HUGE turbines creating alternative energy... go McBain!!

I have been vising the farm for over 28years now, and every time we go there is always something new to see... new barns, new house, different animals, etc etc.

One thing that I have never seen was the birth of a calf. I am always a minute too late, just never good timing. For some of you, you would have no interest in witnessing such a sight, but for me I guess it was something I wanted to see. Well yesterday was my day. We got there at the right time to see the miracle of birth. Not only did I witness it, I helped it along.

Getting the quick 101 of calf birthing from my Uncle Carl

All hooked up ready to pull

A cute baby bull

Surprisingly I stayed clean and my shoes dry, I think I missed my calling of living on a farm or being a Vet.... maybe not, but it was an exciting visit to say the least.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Coconut- Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

**MAKE AT YOUR OWN RISK**

Every time I make these, I wish only for leftovers so I can go home, put some in the freezer to save, only to take out the next day and eat every last bite. I am sure tomorrow will be no different.

Ingredients
1/2 c butter
3/4 c finely crushed graham crackers
1/2 c all-purpose flour
1/2 c coconut
1/2 c ground pecans
1/4 c sugar
1 1/2 8 oz pkg. cream cheese, softened
2/3 c sugar
4 eggs
1 Tbsp. brandy.... or milk
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c blueberries

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 9x13 inch. baking pan and set aside.
2. For crust, in small saucepan heat butter over medium heat until the color of light brown sugar. Remove form heat; set aside.
3. In medium bowl stir together graham crackers, flour, coconut, pecans, and 1/4 c sugar. Stir in butter until combined. Evenly press on bottom of prepared pan. Bake 8 to 10 min or until lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, in large mixing bowl beat cream cheese and 2/3 c sugar on medium until combined. Add eggs, brandy and vanilla. Beat until combined. Pour over hot crust. Sprinkle blueberries
5. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until center appears set. Cool, cover and refrigerate.

Makes not enough bars
Fat is way to much to list

ENJOY!!

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Mark your Calendar

The Brogger's are having another BABY!!!

I was told yesterday at my doctors appointment that my official due date will be April 14th. If this baby is anything like the last, move that date forward 10 days and be totally surprised when it happens.

Eric and I are expecting our second child this spring and are very excited. So far everything checked out OK at the first doctors visit, please pray that I have an easy pregnancy, and a uneventful delivery of a healthy, happy baby!

Monday, October 6, 2008

Fall Fun

My favorite time of the year is fall... love it! I love the cold wind, putting on a big sweatshirt and bundling up with a good cup of coffee. I can't get enough of it!

When my cousin, Julie, suggested a day at the Orchard how could I say no. My mom, sisters, niece, cousin, Abby and aunts took a trip to the Fruit Ridge Orchard for a day filled with fall festivities. Highlights included

1. Hay Rides
2. Eating all the apples I could
3. Fresh out of the cooker doughnuts, yum!
5. Pony rides
4. And of course spending time with family that I don't get to see that often.
5. So much more!
Hopefully we can squeeze in another trip before the snow flies this year.