A cup of tea with Margo

This blog is all about the things in life so many of us need to slow down and enjoy, such as, family, the seasons, food, music, and whatever else causes inspiration. I hope to write as often as I can and it is my desire for you to be able to take a break and enjoy my entries with a cup of tea.

Johnny Appleseed...Legend or Real?? RSS

  Friday, October 14, 2011
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

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Gathering Leaves RSS

  Sunday, October 02, 2011

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


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Big HUG to Fall! RSS

  Monday, September 26, 2011
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

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

  Monday, July 25, 2011

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

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Shopping and Chocolate Indulgence...Need I Say More RSS

  Thursday, June 30, 2011

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 14th, 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
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A July 4th BBQ... Classically American RSS

  Wednesday, June 29, 2011

What could more American than July 4th 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 4th 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
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Father's Day Salute RSS

  Wednesday, June 15, 2011

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

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How to Pick Your Summer Fruit RSS

  Friday, May 27, 2011

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

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

  Tuesday, May 17, 2011

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

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Kissin' Don't Last RSS

  Tuesday, April 26, 2011

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.

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