Happy Canada Day!

A day early...but 

Happy Canada Day 

on Thursday, July 1st 

to all of my friends and family to the north! 

Have a great day, eh!

Summer Berries

Summer's benefits are many, but one of my very favorite things is fresh summer berries.  We have a wild blackberry bush growing in our yard {picking berries instantly reminds me of my childhood summers...running barefoot in the grass, chasing fireflies, and picking wild berries}.

 Right now we're well stocked: strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries!  

I used some of the blueberries this weekend to make delicious  

Blueberry Buckle  :)

 : Ingredients :

• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

: Directions :

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease one 8x8 inch pan.
2. Cream together 3/4 cup sugar, shortening, and egg.
3. In a separate bowl mix together 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir into sugar mixture, alternating with milk. Stir in blueberries. Pour into greased 8x8 inch pan.
4. To make topping: Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/3 cup flour, cinnamon, and butter. Sprinkle over cake batter.
5. Bake at 375 degree F (190 degrees C) for 25-30 minutes.     
   
   
   
   

   
   
   Such a yummy, old-fashioned treat when blueberries are ripe and in season!
   Perfect for picnics, backyard gatherings and anytime snacking!
   
   
   Enjoy!
   

A pond to think by

During the hazy, hot months of the summer season, there's something so calming & soothing about the sound of running water. Whether it's the sound from a sprinkler, fountain, waterfall, or the roaring of ocean waves, the sound of water instantly refreshes.  

We have a birdbath fountain just outside our front door that the birds love to splash in.  The added benefit of the fountain is that it helps to keep the water somewhat purified and fresh. 

We also have a little garden pond that we put in several years ago with a fountain that I just love. For families of little ones {like me} I always caution about ponds or standing water that could prove to be a danger.  Even a few inches of water can be enough to drown a little one. 

But if you have the room, think about putting in a pond or fountain, so you, too, can enjoy the sight and sound of trickling water all season long :)