Celebrate Halloweens Links To Nature Reviewed.

 

 

Happy Halloween!! Wishing everyone a fun and happy time! Halloween can be a fun celebration for those who participate.

On the very cusp of saying goodbye to summer and hello to winter time it is an important time in the calendar. 

Today we find many ways to celebrate this season and the Halloween festival. We decorate our homes with orange and black, spiders and ghosts and ghouls, or a display of gorgeous squashes outside the front door.  We might go trick or treating with young children dressed in amazing inventive fancy dress or go to parties dressed in Halloween costumes. 

Some of us buy decorations for our homes, others craft their own and some even become family traditions. Even if you don't decorate or do anything yourself it can be fun driving or walking around the neighbourhood looking at all the inventive decoration. It is a festival that everyone can be involved in if they wish.

  

Nature Relating to Halloween, Festival Of Samhain

With all this going on I was reflecting on the origins of Halloween and how it relates and links to nature. Halloween has a strong connection to nature through its ancient origins and the season of this celebration. 

Halloween developed from the ancient Celtic pagan festival of Samhain pronounced sow win. This festival has deep roots in nature and marks the point of transition between summer and winter or from the new life, growth, light and warmth of the summer time to the lower light levels , slowing down of plants and leaf loss, darkness and colder days throughout the winter months. So this festival marked the change of seasons as seen in nature and the constant rhythm of life and death.

During Samhain, and as the nights drew in and became much colder, people would naturally gather around warm bonfires. These fires symbolised the warmth and light of the sun and of course provided physical warmth so crucial in the cold nights. In addition they were a spiritual beacon, with the belief that they were guiding the spirits of the departed back to the Otherworld. 

People believed at this time of year that the barriers between this world and the other world were broken down and that meant the living could interact with the other world more easily. To disguise themselves they dressed as monsters and various animals so that the fairies would ignore them and thus avoid being kidnapped to the other world.

The costumes worn by people during Samhain often included elements of nature such as leaves, animal skins, or masks made from a range of already harvested crops from the fields. In this history, we can see the origins of where our current costumes enjoyed at Halloween may have originated. 

 

Gathering Crops And The Pumpkin

The close connection between the time of Halloween and the harvest season reflects the importance of nature and its crucial link to our lives.

This time of year is traditionally associated with the gathering of crops in from the fields. This is undertaken in order to have food to sustain us and stave off hunger during the long cold winter time, with a good crop ensuring our wellbeing in the worst harsh winter months. 

It is also important to prepare our homes and gardens for the cold sometimes harsh winter months and for us to adjust from the long easier summer days and warmth to the often harsher, colder and darker winter.

 Pumpkins are a prominent symbol of Halloween frequently used as decoration inside and outside our homes, with talented artistic carvings, fun lighted carvings and sometimes competitions. In addition delicious Pumpkin recipes abound at this time of year.

Pumpkins and squashes represent the bountiful harvest and the abundance provided by nature. I love to see the pumpkins and squashes growing in the fields and they are satisfying and wonderful to eat. Originally turnips were used filled with coal for displays but this later switched to pumpkins.

 I really enjoy seeing all the amazing carvings and abundant displays in homes and gardens at this time of year. It certainly brightens up the often dull, low light afternoons and evenings.

Overall, Halloween's origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain and its association with the changing seasons and harvest demonstrate its innate connection to nature and the natural rhythms of life. 

This is just a brief look at the ancient festival and its relation to nature and how we celebrate today. There is certainly much more to its fascinating history, but here is just a glimpse of how it relates to nature.  

 So enjoy and celebrate Halloween and this change of the seasons and spare a thought for our ancestors with their beliefs and connections to the natural world. 

Here are amazing and fascinating articles about Halloween from recipes to decor and more written by the talented contributors on Review This Reviews 

Halloween Articles By Contributors On Review This Reviews

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Cookbook Review: Betty Crocker Bisquick Impossibly Easy Pies

Imagine, "Pies That Magically Bake Their Own Crust". The Betty Crocker Bisquick Impossibly Easy Pies cookbook has been a very welcomed addition to my kitchen. With just several ingredients, Bisquick, an egg, and milk I have been able to make savory and sweet pies and have over 130 pages of recipes to try.

As someone who isn't incredibly talented in the kitchen but likes good food, I have tried baking pies in the past. (Sams recipe?). Combining my lack of experience with my lack of time and energy, I am always looking for hardy - but extremely easy - meal ideas. These Impossibly Easy Pies hit the mark perfectly. I can whip one together very quickly after work, pop it into the oven, and dinner is ready by the time I walk the dogs and feed the chickens.

My favorite so far is the chicken pot pie.

Stir together these ingredients and place in a pie plate:

• 2 cups of chunks of cooked chicken (I used canned chicken)
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (I used a frozen vegetable mix that also included green beans)
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped onion

Stir together the Bisquick, egg, and milk. Pour this mixture over the vegetable mixture. Bake.

The final product is a hot, filling, delicious, comfort food. In my household, as a single person, I am left with extra portions to use for my lunches at work. 

Betty Crocker Bisquick Impossibly Easy Pies 

I have begun to use a can of cream of chicken soup, the frozen vegetables, and the cooked chicken chunks routinely. Making a creamier version of the meal. 

I did find that my cookbook recommends one part Bisquick to two parts milk. This makes a thin crust that forms more evenly over the top of the dish. The recipes on the internet reverse that to two parts Bisquick and one part milk. I prefer that amount as it makes more of a thick biscuit or dumpling topping (as seen in the my photo). 

This week I am going to make a beef pot pie - with a can of vegetable beef soup, frozen vegetables, and grilled chunks of steak.

Additional Tips:

I found my copy of Betty Crocker Bisquick Impossibly Easy Pies cookbook at a store called Ollies for only $3.99. If thrifting is your thing, have a look at the discount stores.

Similar recipes can be found on the internet. I usually refrain from the expense of the cookbook purchase by using the internet. However, in this case, having the book with all of the different menus in one place is easy and inspiring. In this case, having the printed version is helpful to consider the varieties of pies that could be made.

The cookbook has a contents section that lists the pies into chapter based on the ingredients. Such as Beef, Chicken and Turkey, Ham/Sausage/Bacon, Fish and Seafood, Meatless, Fruity, and Sweet-Tooth Temptations. They also list some of the pies into these helpful categories:

• All-American Supper
• Summer Dinner on the Deck
• Mexi-Meal
• Sunday Brunch
• Kids' Choice
• Thanksgiving
• Special Occasion Dinner
• Appetizer Party

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Check Out This Stunning Affordable King-Sized Grey & White Quilted Bedspread! 5 Star Review

As usual, there are often frequent changes in my home. 

We've recently put another king-sized bed in one of the bedrooms (especially for company). 

The new bed, of course, needed new bedding.

When it comes to beds, I'm admittedly quite particular. The way they're made can make or break the overall look, and I'm definitely not a fan of that loosy-goosy appearance. That's why I was pleasantly surprised to find that this one sits perfectly flat, just the way I like it. 

Note that this is a bedspread, not a duvet! Duvets require an insert; this is not that.

Available on Amazon - Multiple Colors and Sizes - This one is California King Size

A Gorgeous New California Bed-Spread for a Reasonable Price:

• No puffy look here: If you're after a thick, billowy appearance, this might not be your pick. However, for me, it's just perfect. It boasts a sleek and even presence on the bed that I prefer.

• Height matters: This bedframe is 16 inches off the floor. Though this particular bedspread doesn't quite reach the floor (a preference of mine is that it would reach the floor), it still looks incredibly stylish. I measured it beforehand, so it wasn't a surprise, but it's worth noting.

• Five stars: In my book, this quilt set earns a solid five stars. It's not only good-looking but also of acceptable quality. The subtle plaid and floral pattern is very pretty and adds a unique touch to the space. Plus, it's lightweight, making it a breeze to handle. And let's not forget the value for money – it's certainly a steal.

Now, Let's Dive Into the Details of the Quilt Set Itself:

Unveiling the Quilt Ensemble:

This quilt set is a king-sized masterpiece composed of three essential elements. It boasts one Quilt measuring an expansive 96"x106" and a pair of Pillowcases at 20"x36". Together, they redefine the ambiance of your space with a captivating fusion of grey florals and plaid.

Elegant Floral Fusion:

The design is an amalgamation of floral motifs and paisley prints that gracefully adorn the washed patchwork. This infusion exudes an undeniable charm and a timeless elegance, bestowing upon this Quilt set the well-deserved status of the centerpiece in my bedroom decor.

Luxuriously Soft Microfiber Craftsmanship:

Crafted from the finest soft microfiber, this Quilt guarantees a cocoon of warmth and is not too warm all year round. Its versatility is further amplified by its reversible feature, allowing you to effortlessly alter your decor to match your ever-evolving mood.

All-Weather Versatility and Adaptability:

What sets this Quilt apart is its remarkable adaptability. It's an inviting cocoon during the breezy spring and sweltering summer months and is warm enough in the autumn and winter with extra blankets if needed. 

Effortless Maintenance and Enduring Beauty:

Caring for this Quilt is a breeze. According to the manufacturer, it can be machine-washed in cold water, and a gentle tumble dry on a low setting is all it takes to keep it pristine. It resists fading, shrinking, and wrinkling. I still need to wash it, so I can't personally attest to the claim by the manufacturer. Although it's light enough that I can understand why it's easy to wash.

Available on Amazon

In summary, if you're looking for a quality bedspread for a very reasonable price, you have to check this one out. It comes in multiple sizes and colors, and they're all gorgeous. What a deal.

Would I buy another? Yes, absolutely.

A 5-star review from Me! ★★★★★

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Book Review: Blessings of the Lost Girls by J.A. Jance

 A Brady and Walker Family Novel

Fans of author Judith (J.A.) Jance love her three popular series, one starring Joanna Brady, another J.P. Beaumont and the series with Ali Reynolds. She also wrote a short series (5 books) about the Walker Family featuring Native Americans from the Tohono O’Odham reservation in Arizona. 

In this review of her latest book, Blessings of the Lost Girls, Jance combines members of the Walker Family and characters from the Joanna Brady series in an exciting adventure that includes Joanna's daughter Jenny and Brandon Walker's son-in-law, Dan Pardee. 

Synopsis of Blessings of the Lost Girls

The story begins with a background of the serial killer who is the villain in the novel. 

Then we are introduced to Danial Pardee, a former member of the Shadow Wolves Border Patrol, who patrol the U.S./Mexico border along the Tohono O’Odham Nation Reservation in Arizona. Now he is a field officer in the newly formed MIP agency (Missing and Murdered Indigenous People), an agency under the Department of Interior. The main purpose of MIP is to investigate and put right how law enforcement agencies all over the country had dealt with both solved and unsolved cases involving the deaths and disappearances of Native American victims. 

A body is found in the desert on a ranch near Tucson consisting of nothing but burned bones.  It took nearly 3 years, but the bones are finally identified as those of Rosa Rios, a young woman of Apache descent who was a one-time rodeo star. Dan is called to investigate, as the victim was found in his territory. As it turns out, all reports each MIP investigator files are automatically shared with other MIP field agents, which soon leads to other agents contacting Dan with reports of similar cases involving young women of indigenous descent, each of whom had some connection to rodeos. Soon, the agency realizes that Rosa's death is connected to a serial killer.

Dan contacts Joanna Brady, Sheriff of Cochise County, Arizona where Rosa's body was found. Later, Joanna's daughter Jenny, currently a criminal justice major at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, becomes involved in the case due to having once met Rosa at a rodeo. 

Turns out, Jenny knows another girl who was once attacked at a rodeo by a man who matches the description of the killer they are looking for. And this girl happens to have saved a pair of eyeglasses which were knocked off the man during the attack. The girl never reported the attack at the time because her Morman family would not have approved of the boy she was dating, but finally agrees to turn in the glasses, from which fingerprints are obtained. 

Summary

Between Dan, Joanna and Jenny, and Dan's best friend, Brian Fellows, Sheriff of Pina County in Tucson, a case is put together and the serial killer is tracked down.

*Special Note: Throughout the novel, the author weaves in a few fascinating ancient legends from the (Papago) Tohono O’Odham (Desert People) where the basis of the story begins. The legends, plus the excellent writing of J.A. Jance, makes Blessings of the Lost Girls a very special story indeed. I highly recommend it.

Blessings of the Lost Girls, Book 20 of 20 in the Joanna Brady mystery series, is available in several formats on Amazon

Related Links:

• For more J.A. Jance reviews, click here.
• For More Book Reviews, check out ReviewThisBooks.com 

*Book Review written by Wednesday Elf

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe - Dessert Review

We recently celebrated my father's birthday.  When I was going through my recipes, trying to select a cake to bake for him, I remembered his love of pineapple.  I decided to return to an old favorite and made a homemade pineapple upside down cake. 

For this birthday celebration cake,  I made a vanilla cake batter from scratch with pineapple juice instead of milk/buttermilk.  

I used a 10" Cast Iron Skillet, which I cleaned before I started.  I didn't want the taste of bacon grease or other residue transferring to my cake.

As always, I also pre-measured each ingredient before I started.  It is amazing how much salt and sugar look alike when sitting on top of flour.  Or how much baking soda can look like baking powder once you start mixing ingredients together.

Here is my recipe and the directions to make my pineapple upside down cake exactly as you see it in the photo.

By the way, the cake was such a hit with the entire family, I will be making it again very soon.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe by Sylvestermouse
ReviewThisReviews.com

Prep Time	Cook Time	Cool Time	Ready In	Yields
20 min.	40-50 min.	60 min.	2 hrs.	8 - 10 servings

Before You Start - set out butter, eggs, sour cream, & milk to warm to room temperature (approx. 30 minutes)

Ingredients - Cake Batter 

      • 1½ cups Cake Flour (I use Swans Down Cake Flour) 

     • ¼ teaspoon Baking Soda

     • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder 

     • ½ teaspoon Salt

     • 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, soften to room temperature

     • ¾ Cup of Sugar

     • 2 Egg Whites (large eggs)

     • ⅓ Cup of Sour Cream

     • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

     • 2 Tablespoons Milk (room temperature) 

     • ¼ - ½ cup Pineapple Juice (juice the pineapple slices were canned in - save any remaining pineapple juice)

Instructions 

1. In a bowl, combine dry ingredients: cake flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.  Set aside

2. In a separate bowl, beat the butter with a mixer on high until creamy.  Slowly add the sugar, beating on high until creamy again.  Beat in egg whites.  Then, beat in sour cream and vanilla extract.

3. Pour the dry ingredients (bowl 1) into the wet ingredients (bowl 2) and blend together on low speed.  Continue using the mixer on low and slowly add the pineapple juice and milk.  Mix on low until well blended. 

 

Ingredients - Top of Cake

      • Canned Pineapple Slices - 7 slices (2 - 8oz cans) for 10" cast iron skillet 

     • Maraschino Cherries - I use 19 cherries

     • 1½ Sticks (12 Tablespoons) of Butter

     • Brown Sugar

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. (Convection Oven 325°F) 

2. Mix the Cake Batter (recipe above)

3. Melt 1½ Sticks (12 Tablespoons) Butter in the Skillet in the Oven

4. Generously Sprinkle Melted Butter with Brown Sugar

5. Place Drained Pineapple Slices on the Top of Brown Sugar 

6. Add Maraschino Cherries in the center of each Pineapple Slice and between the slices (if desired)

7. Carefully Pour the Cake Batter into the Skillet on Top of the Pineapple & Cherries

8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes (toothpick to center will come out clean when done)

9.  Cool for 15 minutes, then turn out cake unto a large plate

I did take the remaining pineapple juice and spooned it onto the bottom and the top of the cake for a little extra pineapple taste.  It was delicious!

 Swans Down Enriched, Bleached Cake Flour, 32 oz (Pack Of 3)Check Price Dole Pineapple Slices in 100% Pineapple Juice with No Sugar Added - Dole Fruit Cans - 8 oz - 12 PackCheck Price

See the Items I Use For Pre-measuring in the Following Reviews:

 Cooking & Baking Prep Tools: Shot Glasses Used As Pinch Bowls Set of Stainless Steel Stackable Magnetic Measuring Spoons Reviewed Mini Increment Measuring Spoons for Tad, Dash, Pinch, Smidgen & Drop

 

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com

Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe Written by:

© 2023 Cynthia Sylvestermouse