A cup of tea with Margo

Johnny Appleseed...Legend or Real??

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 16:07:00 GMT

Here in Oklahoma we love a good yarn. We also love stories about people who walk to the beat of their own drum and have built a legacy for our country.

One of our most colorful and much-loved American legends is Johnny Appleseed. I just recently googled his story and thought you might like to hear it.

Believe it or not, he was an actual person, whose real name was John Chapman. Born in 1774 in Massachusetts, he was the son of a farmer and revolutionary war soldier. His mother died of tuberculosis during the war.
Beginning in his youth, he spent much of his time apprenticed to an apple orchard, learning all about apples.

That spawned a dream in him to travel to the American frontier and plant apple trees for profit and to give away, so that communities in the regions could grow and have apples as part of their food supply.

Chapman was a very plain spoken man who lived a very simple life and loved to live off the land. It’s said he wore clothes made of potato sacks and used a cooking pot for a hat. Can you imagine?

So, for nearly 50 years, he planted apple orchards in the wilds of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, West Virginia and Kentucky, anywhere he thought towns might spring up. Today, these are rich apple growing regions. He died of pneumonia in 1845 at the home of a friend and is buried in Indiana.

Next time you eat an apple, think about this legendary frontiersman and how he seeded and spread his apple trees around the country so people could enjoy this great tasting fruit. Hmmmm... now, I’m in the mood for apple pie.

Margo

Gathering Leaves

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The trees will soon be changing color and then losing their leaves to the ground.

There’s just something about those fallen leaves, crackling under foot that feeds my lifelong memories. I can remember so easily gathering them up into piles as a child then jumping into them. It was so much fun.

I also loved picking up leaves by color and using them to make decorations. Each leaf was so different than the next. Maple leaves were the best, full of vibrant colors and rich texture. I can still see my collection and how proud I was of what I had found.

Often I think gathering leaves is like gathering memories. They’re all scattered about and waiting for us to pick them up and put them in order. We have to make the effort to bend down and make good use of them. Otherwise, they lay lifeless before us without real purpose.

Memories will always tell a story about us if we let them. We know each one by sight and color and the smell. In a heap, they paint a picture of who we are and where we come from. We should always praise God for them.

I, for one, have decided to gather memories like I do the leaves. I’ll enjoy them while they’re here if only for a time.

Without me even wishing them to, they fall and keep coming. Cascading down. Tree by tree, leaf by leaf. Never ceasing to drop until that final season.

They won’t quit until the branches become bare and fruitless, stripped of life... and the cold finally arrives. Winter will set in...it always does.

And, try as I might... I’ll look and find no more leaves to gather.

Margo

Big HUG to Fall!

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:00:00 GMT

I don’t know about you, but I believe we’re all in need of a refreshing fall after our incredibly hot and miserable summer in Oklahoma.

There’s something about fall that stirs our senses to the incredible colors of nature and familiar smells that lift our spirits. Just the very thought of the season brings a sense of comfort and peace to our lives that I think improves our overall mindset and health.

This season, get into the spirit by trying some nostalgic aromas in your home. Simmer cinnamon sticks in hot water or make potpourri with pine, apple or clove scents to add a welcoming touch. Not only do they boost your mood but they make your home instantly inviting for friends and family.

You could also bake pumpkin bread or pie and let the whole house fill up with the smells of cinnamon and nutmeg. Ahhh, now that’s fall.

If you’re into decorating, remember to use things associated with nature’s bounty: (Real not fake) gourds, pumpkins, cranberries, autumn leaves and candles in assorted fall colors and scents. Spread them on the buffet or table or anywhere you want to catch people’s eye.

The important part is to surround yourself with what you like. It’s all up to you as long as it makes you happy.

Stir your senses this fall, and create your own special place of comfort and joy.

Margo

Ideas for relaxing for the remaining part of summer...

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 02:26:00 GMT

I know what you’re thinking... Summer’s here... temps are climbing higher... and the kids are home from school, clamoring for things to do... how could I possibly relax this summer?

Well, fear not... I’ve come to the rescue.

Here are my three tips for rediscovering your carefree spirit this summer...

Switch to vacation mode. It may take some doing, but it’s all in the attitude. Don’t feel you have to keep the same breakneck schedule or keep everyone happy with constant activity. Summer’s the time to slow down and relax a little. Time to look at everything a little differently and forget your to-do list.
Enjoy the small pleasures of life. You don’t have to plan a big, expensive trip to Disney World or the beach to enjoy the summer. Think of your own small pleasures and do them throughout the day. It may be running through the sprinklers with the kids or sitting on the patio to enjoy a beautiful sunset. It’s up to you... as long it helps you relax and get refreshed.
Breathe some fresh clean air. You wouldn’t believe what a 30 minute walk can do for your mood. Breathing in clean country air is nature’s way of reviving us and helping us deal with stress. Go outside today and enjoy God’s creation for a little R&R.

So, there you have it... 3 tips for relaxing this summer. Try these over the coming weeks and see if you don’t feel better.

If all else fails, you can always visit us here at the Pink House Restaurant. We’re the perfect place to relax and enjoy the pleasures of summer.

Visit us anytime for lunch or dinner... AND remember to leave your worries behind.

See you soon,

Margo

Shopping and Chocolate Indulgence...Need I Say More

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Ever feel like shopping and eating chocolate should be declared an Olympic sport? If so, then here’s something you’ll absolutely love...

On July 14^th, the Pink House is partnering with All the Rage Fashions for a night of fashion and decadent chocolate feasting...and guess what? You’re invited.

No, this isn’t the Olympic trials but it will be an evening like no other.

The event will be 5pm to 8pm at All the Rage Fashions where you’ll be able to shop your head off...and sample all different kinds of chocolates, cake, and baked fudge courtesy of the Pink House Restaurant.

Just click on the attached flyer (to the right) and print if off. It will be your ticket to get into the special sale and will earn you 25% discount off your entire clothing purchase!

Remember, July 14th at 5-8pm at All the Rage Fashions, 502 South Lynn Riggs Blvd in Claremore, OK.

Join us for a night that will make even Willy Wonka envious. Oh, and bring a friend... and you’ll even receive a FREE gift!

Can’t wait to see you there.

Margo

A July 4th BBQ... Classically American

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMT

What could more American than July 4^th and everything that comes with it...fireworks, a bbq in the backyard, old glory flying high above? I’m talking, classic.

But, just because you’ll be sweating as it is (this is Oklahoma you know) that doesn’t mean you need to sweat the details of your July 4^th menu also. Go with the traditional barbecue favorites, but add a little spice of your own for a simple yet savory summertime feast.

Hamburgers. Could there be anything more quintessentially American? A tried and true classic if there ever was one, but ripe for a little flavor finagling. I like minced onion on my patties and a little salt personally. But, I’ve heard adding a little barbeque habanera sauce will add a kick that will send you into the next county. Something to try.
Potato Salad. How about putting in onions, cheese, sour cream. And, you guessed it, a little bacon? It’s like a loaded baked potato. You’ve got to try it...I promise, you’ll love it.
Buttered corn on the cob. No need to tamper with perfection. Right?
A little green for the kiddos. Green bean casserole is a terrific side dish and easy to make. Or, something cool and leafy will help offset a hot and filling meal.
Oh, and you got to have something fruity for dessert...peaches, blackberries, it’s all good. Or, you could just cut up a watermelon in two seconds flat. To me, it’s the perfect summer dessert.

Finally, add all the extras and you’re good to go... chips, drinks, and of course, your red, white, and blue décorations.

Now, nothing left to do but sit back and enjoy. Oh, and be sure to give thanks for your freedom.

Ahh, the joys of summer.

Margo

Father's Day Salute

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 01:22:00 GMT

Have you thought about what you’re getting your Dad this year for Father’s Day?(Remember, this year it’s Sunday the 19th.)

In addition to the electronic gizmos and that lawnmower he’s been drooling over, why not make it really special by telling your dad how much you love him and are proud of him?

Often, I don’t think we say it enough to our Dads OR we rely too much on the gift itself to express that message.

Gifts are great but they can never take the place of heartfelt words.

Sit your Dad down this year and tell him what he’s meant to you and what a great blessing he is to your life.

If you need some inspiration, here are some quotes about Father’s I think you’ll like:

A father carries pictures where his money used to be. ~Author Unknown

It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us fathers and sons. ~Johann Schiller

Fatherhood is pretending the present you love most is soap-on-a-rope. ~Bill Cosby

My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard. Mother would come out and say, "You're tearing up the grass." "We're not raising grass," Dad would reply. "We're raising boys." ~Harmon Killebrew

Father! - to God himself we cannot give a holier name. ~William Wordsworth

Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father! ~Lydia M. Child, Philothea: A Romance, 1836

When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years. ~Mark Twain, "Old Times on the Mississippi" Atlantic Monthly, 1874

Oh, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person, having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness blow the rest away. ~Dinah Craik

Happy Father’s Day

Margo

How to Pick Your Summer Fruit

Fri, 27 May 2011 11:57:00 GMT

I love summer fruit and picking out the juiciest ones I can to put in salad, desserts, or just for popping them plain. We have a large selection of fruit here in Oklahoma , but trouble is... a lot of people don’t really know how to choose the fruit when they’re at their peak.

Here are some ideas I use personally and at the Pink House:

Blueberries. Look for deep purple berries that are smooth and wrinkle free. If they’re soft and watery, it means they’re too ripe. Avoid containers that are stained which may indicate bruised fruit or ones that could possibly be moldy.

Peaches. I absolutely love peaches and can’t wait for their season. Look for smooth skin and a heavy feel to the peach. Ripe fruit will give off that sweet peach aroma and will have a soft texture but not mushy. For best flavor, it’s better not to store in the fridge.

Cataloupe. You’re looking for a nice shape that’s round with a nice golden color. A ripe fruit will give off a nice mild aroma. If you buy it green, then just store it at room temp for a couple days and it will ripen on its own.

Strawberries. Plump, bright red berries are the choicest fruit. Look for fresh, green leaves and be sure to discard any bruised or damaged berries. Now I ask you... is anything better than sweet red strawberries in the summer?

Watermelons. With watermelons, you want to look for firmness. The trick is in the thump you give it...if it gives a hollow sound you know it’s ripe. The outer rind also needs to have a dull look to it, not dark green.

Hope this helps. Summer will soon be here, and it’s a great time to enjoy the fruit of the season.

Blessings,

Margo

Win a Makeover + $50 to the Pink House Restaurant of Claremore!

Tue, 17 May 2011 16:59:00 GMT

Calling all pampering-loving women everywhere!

Want a chance to win free hair and style advice, free clothes, and an incredible meal at the Pink House Restaurant?

Here’s the deal. During the next two weeks, All the Rage Fashions of Claremore is hosting a Facebook Makeover Contest where a lucky fan will be selected to win--

2 stylish All the Rage outfits.
Hair Styling & Make Up Consultation.
$50 gift certificate to The Pink House Restaurant of Claremore.

All you have to do to enter is...go to All the Rage Fashions’ Facebook page and 'Like' their page. At the end of May, ATR will randomly select a winner.

As they say in Oklahoma, Easy Breezy (well, I say it at least).

Hurry and enter today... can’t wait to see you at the Pink House.

Margo

Kissin' Don't Last

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Have you ever seen that old vintage trivet made of cast iron a lot of people hang in their kitchen? It has a picture of a couple kissing by a picket fence. The tagline reads—“Kissin’ don’t last, good cookin’ do.” I think it’s hilarious...

I love seeing old things like that which remind me of home and simpler times. It got me thinking of other old sayings I’ve seen that make the kitchen warm and friendly. Some are real side-splitters.

Here are a few I found (Let me know what you think):

“Eat, drink, and be merry...for tomorrow ye diet.”

“Never trust a skinny chef.”

“My mother’s menu consisted of two things: take it or leave it”

“Avoid fruits and nuts. You are what you eat.”

“I come from a family where gravy is considered a beverage.”

“It’s after you lost your teeth that you can afford to buy steaks.”

“Worries go down better with soup.”

And my personal favorite, “I’m not saying my wife’s a bad cook, but she uses a smoke alarm as a timer.”

Aren’t those great? I think they would be terrific written on plates or stenciled on the wall. What do you think?

Let me know if you all know of any more and I’ll post them on this blog.

Margo

PS Oh, and by the way, we’re doing some big cookin’ for lunch and dinner at the Pink House this month. Check out our Facebook page for items we’re serving. We’ll just leave all the kissin’ to you. Ha, ha.

Pink House Ringing the Dinner Bell

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Have you heard the good news yet about the Pink House Restaurant?

Well, after years of being known in Claremore as the top eating spot for lunch, we’ve turned a corner of sorts and are now also serving dinner. Yeaaaaaaa!!!

Our new dinner hours are from 5pm to 9pm, Thursday through Saturday. I can’t tell you how excited I am!

To tell you the truth... it was your requests that convinced me the time was right. You know the saying, persistence breaks down resistance? LOL. Well, everyone was clamoring so much for dinner, we knew we needed to do something to make it happen.

Just don’t come expecting anything ordinary though. We’ll have all your favorite dishes you crave, plus, some new dinner entrees destined to become classics. Items like brisket, prime rib, pork loin, black and bleu Caesar salad and delicious desserts like Key Lime Cake. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

So, get yourself out of the kitchen this week and visit us for dinner. We’ll provide the gourmet food and warm smiles.

You just bring your appetite.

See you soon,

Margo

Spend a Day in Claremore

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 05:49:00 GMT

Travel old Route 66 north of Tulsa…past Catoosa’s Blue Whale and an oak tree or two …and you’ll soon come to Claremore, a town known for its deep sense of history and gracious hospitality.

If you’ve never been here before, I want to personally invite you to come see our town and stop in to the Pink House Restaurant for a visit. We’re located at 4th St. and Weenonah in Downtown Claremore. Have lunch with us…and then make some time to see our historic community.

Here are some suggestions of what to do:

Will Rogers Museum—Memorial museum at 1720 W. Will Rogers Blvd. spotlighting American Icon, Will Rogers. Features 12 galleries filled with art and artifacts. Great place to spend a carefree day and see some interesting history. Free admission but donation is suggested.

J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum—If you like guns, this is the place for you. Houses 50,000 items including firearms, swords and knives. Located at 333 N. Lynn Riggs Blvd. Donation only.

Totem Pole Park—Folk Art featuring totem poles made from modern building materials. Currently owned and operated by the Rogers Historical Society. Ten miles northeast of Claremore.

Shepherd’s Cross—80 acres housing an historic 1920s farmhouse and barn. Features Bible Garden, petting zoo, hayride and gift shop. Be sure to visit on sheep shearing days with the kids. Located at 16792 E. 450 Rd or go to their website at www.shepherdscross.com for directions.

Historic Downtown—Terrific antique shops and art galleries, plus, great turn of the century buildings and architecture. Also, check out the Horse of Course Tack Shop, the largest specialty tack shop in the region. They have a great gift shop and are right in the heart of historic downtown.

I think you’ll find Claremore to be a great place to visit. Come see us anytime and enjoy a little adventure in our charming town.

See you soon,

Margo

Travel old Route 66 north of Tulsa…past Catoosa’s Blue Whale and an oak tree or two …and you’ll soon come to Claremore, a town known for its deep sense of history and gracious hospitality.

If you’ve never been here before, I want to personally invite you to come see our town and stop in to the Pink House Restaurant for a visit. We’re located at 4th St. and Weenonah in Downtown Claremore. Have lunch with us…and then make some time to see our historic community.

Here are some suggestions of what to do:
Will Rogers Museum—Memorial museum at 1720 W. Will Rogers Blvd. spotlighting American Icon, Will Rogers. Features 12 galleries filled with art and artifacts. Great place to spend a carefree day and see some interesting history. Free admission but donation is suggested.
J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum—If you like guns, this is the place for you. Houses 50,000 items including firearms, swords and knives. Located at 333 N. Lynn Riggs Blvd. Donation only.
Totem Pole Park—Folk Art featuring totem poles made from modern building materials. Currently owned and operated by the Rogers Historical Society. Ten miles northeast of Claremore.
Shepherd’s Cross—80 acres housing an historic 1920s farmhouse and barn. Features Bible Garden, petting zoo, hayride and gift shop. Be sure to visit on sheep shearing days with the kids. Located at 16792 E. 450 Rd or go to their website at www.shepherdscross.com for directions.
Historic Downtown—Terrific antique shops and art galleries, plus, great turn of the century buildings and architecture. Also, check out the Horse of Course Tack Shop, the largest specialty tack shop in the region. They have a great gift shop and are right in the heart of historic downtown.

I think you’ll find Claremore to be a great place to visit. Come see us anytime and enjoy a little adventure in our charming town.

See you soon,

Margo

Some History and Irish Stew

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:23:00 GMT

Ahh... St. Patrick’s Day... a day of celebrating the color green, shamrocks, and everything Irish. Each year it comes and goes with barely a hint of our notice except for the obligatory green garment we’re compelled to wear.

But, if you knew the true story behind St. Patrick, I think you’d find it pretty fascinating.

First of all, Patrick wasn’t even Irish. He was born in Britain in 390 AD to an aristocratic family and wasn’t a Christian growing up. At 16, however, all that changed.

Patrick was kidnapped and sent to Ireland to work as a slave. It was there, through hard work and trials, Patrick gave his heart to Christ and decided to live a life of deep devotion to God. Patrick eventually escaped on a pirate ship back to his family and was home again safe.

But, he heard the voice of God telling him to go back to Ireland. He again returned, became a priest and spent the rest of his life spreading the gospel message to the people. History has it he even preached to the Druids and turned them away from their pagan rites and rituals.

Did he really drive all the snakes out of Ireland?

Not to burst your bubble...but it’s just a myth. While it’s true there are no snakes in Ireland today, fact is... there never were. Surrounded by icy ocean waters, the country is too cold for them to migrate there.

More than likely, the snakes were mostly symbolic. Driving out snakes probably meant driving out the pagan, evil influences of the age in Ireland. Patrick was vital to the spread of Christianity and to a legacy of faith for the Irish people.

Other legends such as Patrick using three leafed shamrocks to explain the holy trinity are very interesting stories but have little factual basis. They’re myths also.

Nevertheless, the true story of St. Patrick, I believe, is a portrait of courage and steadfast devotion. St. Patrick was a brave man whose life of winning souls is a true testimony of what one man can accomplish with God’s help.

This holiday, be sure to think of the real man behind the myth and what he meant to the soul of Ireland. It’s not just about leprechauns and shamrocks.

Remember the true meaning of St. Patrick’s and don’t forget to have some good,

Irish Stew to celebrate.

Mmmm. Sooo Good.

Margo

Peanut Butter Lover's Dream

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:05:00 GMT

Did you know Peanut Butter Lovers Holiday is coming up? Yep, it’s March first.

Okay, it may not be up there with Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s...but, hey, who doesn’t like peanut butter? Not only is it delicious, but it’s also pretty good for you it turns out.

Here are four reasons I’ve found for loving peanut butter. Okay, reason number four trumps all of them, but don’t skip ahead...

Reason #1—Fighting bad cholesterol. Turns out peanut butter has a lot of fiber and fiber is what helps you fight off bad cholesterol, which is good for your heart. Good heart means you’re able to do plenty of chores around the house...sorry, I didn’t say it was all good news.

Reason #2—Good for your muscles. Why? Because of the protein. We need it to build muscle and keep the body strong. Anything with protein can also give you an energy boost and jumpstarts brain activity (boy, I need that).

Reason #3—Keeps your colon healthy and happy—PB has resveratrol, which helps your body deal with bacteria and bad micro-organisms in your colon. That’s a good thing, especially as you get older.

Reason #4—A match made in heaven, CHOCOLATE AND PEANUT BUTTER. Need I say more? I didn’t think so.

Tell me what you think about these and if you think we need a peanut butter dessert at the Pink House. Purely, for the health benefits, mind you... LOL

Margo

Enjoying Early Spring...

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT

No…don't think about the snow we recently had. Think of flowers, the warm breezes, the song birds. Now can you see it?

We’re getting closer to spring every day and away from the cold reaches of winter.

Who can blame me for hoping?

Now, do me a favor…post and let me know what you’re looking forward to this spring.

I want to enjoy the anticipation with you.

Thanks and talk to you soon.

Now, back to my imaginary spring picnic. Ahhh.

Margo

Are you as anxious as I am to see the red buds in bloom, the crocuses, a daffodil or two? Now, with the least, wee bit of spring-like weather coming in a few days, (so say the weathermen) I’m getting a little antsy for some spring scenery. How ‘bout you?

No…don't think about the snow we recently had. Think of flowers, the warm breezes, the song birds. Now can you see it?

We’re getting closer to spring every day and away from the cold reaches of winter.

Who can blame me for hoping?

Now, do me a favor…post and let me know what you’re looking forward to this spring.

I want to enjoy the anticipation with you.

Thanks and talk to you soon.

Now, back to my imaginary spring picnic. Ahhh.

Margo