Fwd: [thesimple_life] Autumn Pumpkin Muffins

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thesimple_lifeReply-to: thesimple_life-owner To: thesimple_life Sent: 10/20/2008 6:23:20 A.M. Pacific Daylight TimeSubj: [thesimple_life] Autumn Pumpkin Muffins

 

 

 

 

The Simple Lifeby Sheryl SimonsIf you've never done a Michigan Autumn, you are really missing out! This year the colors are spectacular. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's because we have not had a hard freeze, or too much rain, or not enough rain but for whatever the reason, this years colors would be hard to top. Especially here in the Cadillac area, there is no such thing as an ugly road! The maples, sumac, oaks, evergreens, poplars, just everything and just the way God designed it, makes me realize why He is the Master Gardener of all times. There are no glossy magazine pages that can compete with the beauty of the scenery around us. It is amazing. And there are dozens of ways to enjoy all this beauty, and it doesn't have to cost much. Hike, bike, walk, have a picnic, a hayride, or a bonfire. No matter how you play it, make sure you really see the beauty around you. Name the kinds of trees and shrubs growing wild. Notice how nature places them. If you happen along some really great bargains for your garden, look no farther than the woodlands for ideas on placing your plants and the combinations. Fall shows us that nature is not dull, and your yard doesn't need to be either. Right now we have a riot of color. Deep reds, dark greens, bright orange, florescent pink and all kinds of shades and variations. Nothing boring or formal here. And no straight lines. Twists and turns and lots of surprises. Don't hold back your imagination when it comes to the exciting ways to liven up your yard! Even the ditches and road banks are inspiring! There are Black-eyed-Susan's with cattails, and a small red maple, or a purple plum. Wild asters growing alongside yellow aspen, and a red oak. Just please- don't plant a shrub that will grow 10 feet wide, 3 feet from the side of your house or garage. Nothing wrecks good landscaping like having a nice tree or shrub tucked too tight to a building! Anything goes in nature, so your yard can have surprises too! Different heights, colors, textures all mixed into one. Fall is a great time to move your plants around, so don't be shy. And it doesn't have to be expensive. Many plants are on clearance this time of year, some for a dollar or two. It may take a few years to grow, but it is fun watching how they develop. Planting fall garlicDid you know that garlic, like tulips are best planted in fall? You may have to order your bulbs unless you have saved them in the fridge since spring, or unless you are lucky enough to have a friend to share some bulbs. You might have to resort to grocery store garlic, but that is better than none. To order it through the mail, you will have many more choices. Once you buy your bulbs, you won't have to buy them again, since you can save them from year to year for planting. Try to time your fall planting so garlic has a couple weeks to begin root growth, but hopefully cold will set in before there is much top growth. Planting 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes, should be about right. Divide the cloves just prior to planting. Placing the root end down and about 3 inches deep. After the ground freezes, mulch the entire bed for the winter to protect from freezing and thawing. Now there is nothing to do, but wait for spring, and your harvest!* * *Life isn't about finding yourself, its about creating yourself. ~~ George Bernard ShawEating a diverse diet that includes 5 servings of vegetables per day can make your real age as much as 4 years younger!Autumn Morning Pumpkin Muffins1 cup pumpkin2 eggs, slightly beaten1/2 cup water1/2 cup melted shortening1-3/4 cups flour1/4 teaspoon salt1-1/2 cups sugar1 teaspoon baking soda1/4 teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon nutmeg1/2 teaspoon ginger1/4 teaspoon clovesMix in order. Do not over mix. Bake @ 400 for 15 to 18 minutes, or until done. I like to add chopped walnuts. Keeping it Simple,SherylPlease contact me with recipes, questions, comments and simple living ideas that work for you. Email: thesimple_life Join the online newsletter to print recipes and look up previous columns:thesimple_life/ New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination. Dining, Movies, Events, News more. Try it out!