From Another Time

We went down and visited my brother

and his family.

They are living on the ranch that

my sister-in-law's great grandparents homesteaded.

There are other such places, 

but I am always in awe of the fact that

these buildings have lasted over a hundred years so far.

Of course the buildings are easy to notice,

but there are so many other things.

What caught my attention upon heading 

back out to a ranch was that

I didn't realize that we have mostly

mechanical latches today.

On the ranch, it's usually some form of wood or wire.

That got me to noticing other signs of a lost era.

And of course~

the necessary house. 

It's fully functional, stocked, and used at times.

There are signs of progress though.

I am still amazed how we can create an oasis 

in the middle of the high desert.

It was a nice visit, beautiful weather, & lots of laughs.

It does make me kinda homesick for the ranch though.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

*~*~*Last Minute Gift Idea - Sandcastle Brownies*~*~*

This is great for those who have everything.

Also, it is usable so we are not

decorating someones house,

providing them with 

clothes they will never wear

or a gadget to dust etc.

Just gather up a few things.

Sandcastle Brownies

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In a 1 qt. jar, layer

1/3 cup chopped nuts

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/3 cup flaked coconut

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup baking cocoa

1 1/2 cup flour

Then on a tag provide the following information:

Additional Ingredients

2 eggs

2/3 cup oil

1 tsp. vanilla

Mix well then bake in greased 8" pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 min.

I just printed it up on a little tag and attached it with a ribbon.

You can do several at one time if you have 

the need to do so.

PS: I like to use pickle jars - washed and sanitized of course.

We certainly wouldn't want pickle flavored brownies.

If you use a regular canning quart jar, 

the layers will actually look a little better

or thicker, but these are jars that I'll never see again.

I think of it as a great way to recycle.

You can also add a piece of fabric over the lid

for an even more festive look.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches