New kitchen photos

 

There are still little bits to be completed

For all intents and purposes this kitchen is done.  There are little bits here and there to do but the major work is done. I am loving it! The cabinet above needs a tile backsplash.

Changed the painting on this wall and added this new watercolor by Fidjeland. Well, it's not new to me but it used to hang in my office.

We shortened the sink cabinet and that made real room for the table. For now we have the same formica top, just shortened.  It does go nicely with the wall colors and wood. Maybe we'll install granite someday. Two new light fixtures, too!

 My new 6 burner gas stove with an electric oven and a small warming oven, the new hood and cabinets. Love those bamboo floors!

We were buying the hardware as we bought and installed the cabinets.  The last purchase was a close call. The hardware was being discontinued and there just enough drawer pulls to complete the kitchen. Only just enough.  Warning to all!  Take heed!

The last major thing to do in the house is putting in the new front door and side lights. The door and sides are on order.

Parsnips seeded, renovations go on

This past weekend besides watching a great football game... We looked at bamboo flooring samples and entry doors.  Funny how renovating one thing in your house leads to another!  I will try to get photos up next weekend.

The daffodils and tulips are breaking ground so I put stakes around each spot so the dogs won't sleep or walk on them. The daphne is blooming. It is really happy in its spot. In one of my raised beds I put in a row of parsnips.  I hear they hard to start; we shall see.  I have become very fond of them.  The peas are popping up but the favas haven't made their appearance yet.  The Detroit Red beets are coming up.  Another of my favorite root crops. 

I love roasted beets, at least roasted "my" way. I usually make several portions at one time.  They are deeply flavored and are wonderful to have stashed in the fridge.

Roasted Beets

Cut the tops and rootlets off youngish beets. Scrub clean and slice into bits about and inch (bite sized!).  Put in a baking dish that covers tightly or use a foil packet. Add olive oil, chopped garlic and fresh or dried basil (obviously fresh is best but in the off seasons I add my home grown and dried basil).   Bake at 350 degrees until tender.  This does depend on the tenderness of the beets but a good 40 minutes is a good approximation.  Cool.  Add salt, pepper and any good vinegar to taste.