Mid Summer Doings


It's about Mid Summer here on the Ranch. We have had more rain this spring and early summer than normal so our tanks (aka Ponds) are full from the runoff. Everything is green and our pastures and garden are growing better than we expected. It's hot hot hot and we are living per southwest culture, work outside in the morning, take a siesta and then back outside when things cool off.

And speaking of working outside. Don't tell our children but we are continuing to use the bucket in our tractor as a lift to build a party room at the rear of our carport area. I pick up the hubby in the bucket so he can weld posts while I run around throwing him additional items. Yep, I'm the glue of this operation, HAHA! Na, I just back him up but he has the plans and the abilities to complete this great project and I just help. We plan on a bar, pool table and are looking for a shuffle board for this 20 X 40 foot room. Anyone know where we can buy a shuffleboard at a price that we can afford? Hey, when we are too old to drive at night, we will have our own Bar full of fun walking distance from our front door. That's the plan.

New on the Blog

Piña Colada Cheesecake Mason Jars are a tropical-inspired, no-bake dessert that captures the essence of the classic cocktail. These individual treats feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling of whipping cream, cream cheese, coconut extract and sweet crushed pineapple, and a topping of toasted coconut flakes, pineapple chunks and a maraschino cherry.

Summer Recipes:

Move over, traditional condiments. This Organic Basil Pesto Sauce will have you reaching for the jar instead. Using fresh organic basil, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil, it’s blended into a vibrant sauce perfect for pasta, paninis, or soups.

Three words: Boozy. Watermelon. Popsicles. Give your summer a refreshing chill with these deliciously boozy watermelon popsicles treats. Rum-infused, minty, and naturally sweetened with agave, these Watermelon Mint Popsicles the perfect antidote to hot, sunny days. Boozy popsicles are simply popsicles made for adults that contain alcohol. PLUS, they’re super easy to make! 🍉 These frozen watermelon mojito popsicles are perfect for a hot summer day. ✨💕

This vibrant Tex Mex Salad with Grilled Chicken is perfect for hot summer days. The recipe combines seasoned, grilled chicken breast with crisp romaine, black beans, corn, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips, all tossed with ranch dressing. Quick to prepare in 45 minutes, this colorful, flavorful salad is a spicy, satisfying meal that can be made even easier with leftover or rotisserie chicken. Ideal for lunch or a light dinner.

Can't resist the call of a creamy, dreamy banana split? Neither could we, which is why we created this irresistible banana split parfait pudding cup recipe. Easy to make and even easier to devour, it's the perfect treat for kids of all ages. Bonus: no drive-in required.

🍉CALLING ALL FOOD ARTISTS! Think you’ve mastered the art of carving? Put your skills to the test and impress your friends by creating a beautiful Whale Watermelon Decoration.

Feeling the summer heat? Cool off with our refreshing no bake strawberry cream cheese pie. The combination of tangy lemon cream cheese and sweet fresh strawberries is a match made in dessert heaven. Plus this no bake strawberry cream cheese pie recipe is so easy to make, you'll be making it all summer long.

What's Trending:

Looking for a new twist on a classic appetizer? These Red Lobster Biscuit mix sausage balls are a must-try! Perfect for any occasion and always a crowd-pleaser.

Bring the heat of the South to your kitchen with our DIY tabasco peppers in vinegar recipe. This easy recipe delivers a condiment that packs a punch and takes your Southern meals to a whole new level. From black-eyed peas to fried catfish, drizzle our hot pepper vinegar and experience the irresistible sizzle of Southern flavors.

End your camping meal or backyard gathering on a high note with these irresistible Campfire Potatoes! Their crispy edges, cheesy goodness, and smoky aroma make them a must-have for any outdoor feast. Whether cooked over glowing embers or in your oven, this simple yet hearty dish is sure to become a favorite. So, grab some foil, fire up the flames, and savor the deliciousness of these crowd-pleasing spuds!

Get ready to explore the romantic flavors of Italy right in your kitchen with our one pot chicken and mushroom cacciatore. Packed full with succulent chicken and a medley of veggies in a fragrant sauce, this dish is a real crowd pleaser. You can make this Italian chicken cacciatore in one pot for an easy weeknight dinner. Even though its a quick dish, there is no loss of those rich flavors of an authentic chicken cacciatore.

P. O. Box 513, Merkel, TX 79536
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My Turn for Us

Come join us while we share tastefully simple recipes, creative DIY, and our Backroads Travel Adventures from our Ranch in Texas. Sign up for our weekly emails and receive current and new recipes, crafts and tips in your inbox.

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