Widgeonwood...gourmet farm fresh food!

Sally's Super Bowl Burgers....

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:06:00 +0000

Sally's Super Bowl Burgers...

If you've seen my tubes of Widgeonwood Dried Shitake Mushrooms & wondered what to do with them besides add them to soup or a casserole? First of all, I had a customer buy lot's of them this summer & finally had to ask what he was doing with the mushrooms...
I was quickly informed that he was taking fabulous McGonigle rib eyes...bringing them to room temp and rubbing them all over with the dried mushrooms & then grilling the steaks, quickly & over high heat, nothing more than medium rare...OMG!
So? I decided that these could be added to burgers, as well. Really easy & really, really GOOD! Here's the recipe! You're going to LOVE THEM!

1 & 1/2 pound ground beef, Ilike at least 20% fat

package of Widgeonwood Dried Missouri Shitake Mushrooms, ground in your food processor or coffee grinder to a fine powder.

3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 pound fresh portobello mushrooms, sliced

1 large red onion, sliced thin (about 2 cups)

2 Tbsp olive oil

More sea salt

4-6 slices of Swiss cheese

Burger bun

In a large bowl, use your clean hands to gently mix together the meat, salt, mushroom powder, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Mix just until everything is mostly combined, a minute or two. Do not overwork the meat mixture or it will become tough and meatloaf-like. Shape the meat into 4-6 patties...creating a slight indentation at the centers of the patties (this will help keep the patties fairly flat when they cook, as the sides tend to contract more than the center). Prepare your grill for high, direct heat. While the grill is heating up, heat a large sauté pan over high heat for 1 minute. Add the mushrooms and dry-sauté them until they release their water, about 2-3 minutes. Add the onions and the olive oil, toss to combine and continue to sauté over high heat 1 minute. Add salt to taste and cook until the onions soften and begin to brown. Turn off the heat and place in a bowl. Grill the burgers to the desired doneness, between 5-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the burgers and how hot your grill is. When the burgers are almost done, lay the Swiss cheese over them and allow the cheese to melt. Paint the burger buns with a little olive oil and toast them on the griddle or grill grates. To assemble, put a burger on the bun and top with the sauteed onions and mushroom mixture.

Farm Fresh Free Ranged "Junque"...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:34:00 +0000

In order NOT to be featured in a full length episode of "HOARDERS"...I am releasing some of my "finds" from "here and mostly yon"...It is with great trepidation that I release these "treasures" but know they will go to good homes where they will be seen & appreciated. If you have any questions about anything you see...Just give me a call here at the farm or email me! I can reserve your "hearts desire" & bring to the city on Saturday!

I will update my "junque" frequently frequently! Let me know what you collect or are looking for! Hope to see you Saturday! I am bringing some other really great "finds" then...

The first picture is a 1940's ish...set of 6 juice glasses for $27.50. I think they would be really "cool" gifted with a "fab" bottle of wine! So unexpected!

A pair of French Quimper plates...pricey stuff so unique! I brought these back from a little shop in Nice, France. I have other Quimper pieces that are for sale. If you are an interested collector just let me know. I am asking $320 for the pair. A really good price!

I love this "hanging thing" & see it in a bathroom over a tub or a sun room. I think it could easily be turned into a very cool lamp. It is made of 1000's of tiny seashells. One of those odd things that make you wonder who had the time to do this sort of thing. I think $75 & it's yours!

This parrot planter is absolutely the most gorgeous vibrant colors...I have only seen one other, like this...I was told by an elderly friend that this was used as a hanging planter or vase...Very unique! I can see it in a kitchen, bathroom or sun porch...with some pothos ivy hanging from it? Circa: 1920's ...$100

The enameled roasting pan...the green lid makes this a very rare piece indeed. I've seen gray, blue, turquoise, light green but never one like this! In almost perfect condition...I would like to think this useful piece would go to home where it will be frequently used. Perfect for that big Thanksgiving turkey or a huge batch of vegetable stew! Circa: 1930's...$120

This odd group of saint statues? I bought these very, very well-worn icons from a "voodoo lady" in New Orleans...Hell bent one afternoon on finding Marie Laveau's house, probably after drinking too much Love Potion #9...I was led to a very strange shop & purchased these right off an actual "voodoo alter"...for $75. I am guided to sell these for exactly what I paid for them. No magical gri-gris or mojo bags included. As is. Be extremely careful of what you wish for!

This rose covered cup & saucer is part of a service for eight...including sugar/creamer, cups, saucers, dessert plates, soup bowls & dinner plates...Farberware Sydney Roses. I love the "chabby chic" look of the pattern. I can see all these pieces mixed with other plates & bowls...

$125 for the set.

The Blue Onion cup & saucer is representive of a service for six! Cups/saucers/dessert plates/soup bowls/dinner plates....This is J & G Meakin/England the Blue Nordic pattern...

$100 for the set.

#4...This simply gorgeous wash basin is" T. Funeval/the Sharon patter...circa: 1850's...Well worn & loved this bowl in perfect condition would bring a fortune. I think it has many purposes & years of life left in it...I can see a huge summer salad or full of fruit or??? Take her home & find many creative uses for this aged beauty...$37.50

#5...I can see this in a small bathroom used to store towels or a sun room to hide games...It's just such a unique piece...A wicker wedding basket or hope chest...German in origin. Circa: turn of the century. I like it the way it is & would not repair it, just the right amount of "chabby chic"...just my opinion! $125

ReTour...ReShop...ReSale Event & Sally's Christmas Story...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:17:00 +0000

Widgeonwood's ReTour...ReShop...ReSale Event...
Saturday, December 17th from 10 until 5
Find us at The Prairie Village Shops @ 71st & Mission
We'll be in the old Macy's Home Store Location right next to Einsteins!
*****
Sally's Christmas Story!

Needless to say all of you know that Sally isn't quite "right"! Mainly, I've recognized this from an early age and try to capitalize (oh God, there's that word we need to take out of our vocabularies, Comrades...we must not capitalize, anymore, right?) on the fact that I see things from such a strange prospective...or is that perspective?

I had the “damndest” dream last night...probably brought on by eating a large bowl of orange sherbet drizzled with that fabulous French Bittersweet Chocolate Sauce, right before I got in the bed. What was I thinking?

Anyhow, it seems in my dream I was hired to go out and find all the gifts from that most annoying of all holiday tunes...The 12 Days of Christmas for a very wealthy man (with Donald Trump hair) to give to his wife, which as you well know, the song is way over the top involving BIRDS! And, as most of you know my biggest phobia is BIRDS! (Although, the rich guys hair was pretty scary, too) Fortunately, I woke myself up right before that damn partridge in a pear tree swooped down on me to peck my eyes out...or whatever it is partridges are capable of. Thank God, I woke up...no telling what two turtle doves could do to a person???

Sadly...Sally had so much sugar in her system she was still up and wide awake at 3 in the morning. I spent all I could on the "shopping network", watched Don Imus in the Morning (sad with more bad hair), played with my "smart phone in a failed attempt to be “smarter” & was still pretty much "cranked up"…worse than if I'd had 3 cups of French espresso!

Wide awake at 3 am? Craigslist is always entertaining & the plan began! I would find everything needed for the "12 Days of Christmas" on Craigslist, right?

Okey Dokey...We need your basic “partridge in a pear tree”? Not even sure what a partridge looks like & after searching I can’t remember how many cities…There it is! One lone damn partridge! But, the price is right & we’ve got pear trees. Good to go! However, ya’ got to wonder what the “emu problem” is all about? Another, story Sally will share with you sometime! Another mess the Missouri Department of Agriculture got poor farmers involved with! Emu’s & pot-bellied pigs! This is the only partridge in the whole USA and I got him for 3 bucks! YAY!

Bird for Sale…Raymore, Mo.

nice variety of colors this fall, in ducks that is. We have a nice range;of qualities available in Call Ducks from pet quality through show quality
to go now. We have gray, white, and blue fawn still for sale. Sorry, no
extra females available this year- but there are some extra males for sale. Let me know what quality and color you are interested in and I can give you
prices and availability, plus I can send you more pictures of our breeder and show birds. Please enjoy the pictures of the birds enjoying the fall ;sunshine. They are sure to capture even more smiles in your backyard as they
are very friendly and personable birds. Single birds start at $15 each, but
consider buying more than a couple and we are happy to make you a good deal.
They are in excellent condition and will be a real joy for your family.
Rooster's > Cochin Banty's > Blue, Barred, & Partridge > N. Hamp. H - $3
(Rayville, MO (45 min NE of KC
Got a few Rooster left to sell:
Cochin Banty's: << These are show quality Roosters << Fully feathered
feet, and beautiful, pics are not so good, but it's just the camara, in person
they are beautiful
2 – Barred...1 -- Partridge...2 – Blue

There is more out there, can't think of right now like the white one in front a normal banty rooster and the small red one behind him a normal banty rooster
Will sell for $3 each CASH ONLY & NO CHECKS
Call 816-217-0205 Have to sell due to Emu issues, these are normally the kind I keep all
winter.

Moving right along! Finding two turtle dove is no small fete! So, we take a pair of these in gray & we’ll just label them “turtle doves” good to go! Not sure about the adoption thing…But, possibly they can be returned after the Holiday’s! And, they are right in Kansas City! Who knew?

Doves for adoption. Birds Bird. Dove. Kansas City.
Ringneck doves for adoption in various colors (Fawn, Tangerine, Gray
Young, Fawn Pied,white,white with gray, and brown).
Some are babies and some are fully grown, males and females. Adoption fee
is $12.00 per dove.
Call me at 816-694-0293. Sale sale sell Sell

So, where the hell are we going to find “3 French Hens”? Not a one, anywhere that I could find…not even in FRANCE! Yes, Craigslist is in Europe, too! NO FRENCH HENS in France? Leaves me no choice! I’m taking these laying hens & the optional rooster! We keep three of the hens, teach them French & eat the rest! Good to go! I am really getting the Christmas spirit, now!

hens - $60 (Boonville)
5 healthy white laying hens, from same hatch, 1 1/2 years old. We are
moving, which is why I am getting rid of them. Photo includes several different
chickens, but the solid white ones are the one this ad refers to. Optional
free rooster ( he is not aggressive). Price is firm, cash.

Give me a break…4 calling birds? This is getting insane! However, a duck is a bird & I just got lucky, the guy has 4 left! So, the calling ducks quack not coo? Seriously, who’ll know the difference, right?

Birds - Poultry (LaPlata)
Silver Rouen drake $10 Fawn & White Indian Runner $15 Black & White drake $10 Chocolate & Blue Muscovies $12 males $15 hens Fall hatch White Muscovies, $6 ea Pair of spring hatch Blue India Peacocks $75 Trio of Spring hatch Emerald Pied Peacocks $250 Pair of Adult Blue India Peacocks $150
Adult Pair of Red Golden pheasants $120 Adult Pair of Yellow Golden pheasants $125 Adult trio of Silver pheasant $125Adult Impeyan pheasant pair $550 Also have this years hatch pheasants: Silvers $65 pr Yellow goldens $70 pr Lady Amherst 1 male left $40 Abyssinian Blues $100 prRed Buff Ringnecks only hens left $20 ea Green Ringnecks only hens left $17.50 ea Bantam Call Ducks for Sale!

Five golden rings, is certainly problematic, especially at the price of gold! However, leave it to Craigslist, once again! Good to go! I ordered 5 gold(ish) belly button rings…The song doesn’t specify where the rings are to be worn! Now I’m making progress!

SELLING 100 INDIVIDUAL PACKETS OF BODY MAGIC/Kansas City
ASSORTED NOSE RINGS,EARRINGS,BELLY BUTTON RINGS AND EYEBROW RINGS

EACH ITEM PRE-PRICED AT $5-$19 EACH PUT THEM RIGHT IN YOUR STORE
TAKE THE WHOLE LOT FOR ONLY $200

Back to needing more damn birds? 6 geese a laying?? And, the owner says they can be trained to “lie down”! This is going better than I thought!

Six geese available, young Africans, males and females, six to eight
months old. Call 417-741-7909 or email.

Seven swans a swimming? There they are…in Little Rock! So, they are black swans? Ya’ gotta a problem with that? I didn’t think so! And, not only can they swim but one of them talks! I must say slightly pricey but it’s Christmas & you’ll have them to enjoy for the next 27 years! Hark the herald angels, right?

5 Year old Austrian Black swans/Little Rock- Female very friendly likes to talk to
you - these birds live 20-25 years $1100-$1300 for 3 yr old swans Will sell for $500.

Now we’re really going to have to get creative! “8 maids a milking”? I called an ad for “Merry Maids” on Craigslist & told them what I needed. They hung up on me…right after calling me some kind of sicko pervert! These folks certainly don’t have the Christmas spirit, now do they? And, I am thinking ahead to the “9 ladies dancing”? And, there it was…OMG! Right in Johnson County no less! These pleasant people got me covered! Their “girls” aim to please! You want milk maids? Coming right up…any preference to size or color? Not a problem! And, the 9 ladies dancing? You pick out the music/costumes or not? And, I got a “bulk” price! I can hear those sleigh bells ringing, now!

Female Dancers (Johnson County)
VERY HIGH CLASS GIRLS!!!! NO ESCORTING DANCING ONLY! LOOKING FOR A GOOD
TIME AT YOUR BACHELOR PARTY, BIRTHDAY PARTY OR JUST FOR THE HELL OF IT.
CONTACT VIA EMAIL FOR BOOKING AND GET READY FOR A GREAT TIME!!!!!!
$100 PER HOUR PER GIRL, PLUS TIPS.

“10 lords a leaping”, “11 pipers piping” & “12 drummers drumming”…I can see them now! I just hit the Craigslist jackpot! This place is going to provide me with the whole troop! Oh yeah! The only decisions I have to make? When, where & is this a pants on or pants off situation! Silver bells…its Christmas time in the city…parumpapumpum!Dancer’s for you in Kansas City…I have exotic dancers available for bachelor parties, bachlorette parties,
birthdays private parties whatever u feel u need entertainment for, I have
he highlight of your event please email me if u have any questions or
want us to make your party!

Sally is really tired now…the chocolate covered orange sherbet is wearing off! I’ve completed finding everything needed for the next 12 days of Christmas…right on CRAIGSLIST! It’s a miracle for sure!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to one & all! I love each & every one of you & feel so blessed to have so many wonderful friends that not only buy things from me…but actually read this stuff & tell me you like me!

Life is good…

~Sally Calvin

Farm Fresh Holiday Market Flyer...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:33:00 +0000

There's still time to get those special orders in! Here's the flyer that went out in the mail...Just in case you didn't get yours! Don't hesitate to call or email us if you have any questions or special requests!

FARMHOUSE FRESH...All these products are made at the last minute...So, if you could please, please special order ASAP...Sally would be most grateful so I have enough product/jars etc. Call now while you are thinking of it & please no later than the 27th! It will be so appreciated!
'"CHEESEWHEEL"..Sally has made "God only knows" how many "CheeseWheels" in the last 20 years & I can honestly tell you that I still love to eat them! Winter "CheeeWheel" is three layers with cream cheese...parsley & sun dried tomato, extra sharp N.Y. Cheddar & baby Vidalia onion. The 10-inch wheel serves 2030/$60...the 7-inch wheel serves 10-18/$30 . Holiday "CheeeWheel" wedges are $6.99.
Please specify if you want topping. We have fresh parsley, rosemary & dried cranberries! "CheeseWheel" without topping will keep in the coldest part of your refrigerator for at least 3 weeks & with topping 10 days. Don't disappoint your family & friends...for some of you, a 20 year tradition. SPECIAL ORDER!!!
ITALIAN PARSLEY OR RED PEPPER PESTO & NICOISE' OLIVE TAPENADE...are Holiday
entertaining must haves. Pesto simply added to cooked pasta is an instant meal...throw in a little shrimp + a tossed salad with a baguettes & you've got a "company's coming" meal in minutes! Pesto freezes very well...so now is the time to stock up for the long winter ahead! Tapenade is perfect spread on baguettes slices, scooped up with Belgian endive leaves, perk up a pasta, wrap, sandwich or spread on smoked salmon & roll it up for a fast little appetizer All are $7.99 the jar. Please special order...fresh organic ingredients are at a premium this time of year & I must order in advance!
FRESH REAL ITALIAN STYLE TOMATO BRUSCHETTA...made with our amazing fresh winter tomatoes, basil from the greenhouse, fresh garlic, imported olive oil & balsamic vinegar...All you need is a baguette...INSTANT...crowd pleasing appetizer...$8.50 the jar. Do special order!
TOMATO or CUCUMBER BISQUE...Are both possible BY SPECIAL ORDER ONLY! Elegant gourmet starters for that special Holiday meal. Or, an entree' with some added grilled shrimp or crab! Bisque will keep 2 or 3 weeks. $15 the jar.
GAZPACHO...We've become pretty famous for our Spanish gazpacho! We'll have RED SPANISH, SPICY RED & PEACH...Talk about the perfect little "appetizer/cocktail" ...Freeze little "shooter" or martini glasses...Spike your quart of gazpacho with a cup of vodka & pour into the frozen glasses....rim with a little of our French sea salt & a grilled shrimp! Throw another log on the fire & serve up that gazpacho in a frozen bowl...swirl with sour cream & taste the best the summer had to offer...Dreaming of market opening again in Spring! $9.99 the jar. Limited quantity...special orders suggested!
REAL ENGLISH CURD...Key Lime, Lemon or Raspberry! Wonderful on scones or toast, of course! Or for an instant gourmet dessert....Fold one jar of curd into 2-3 cups of whipped cream (or Coolwhip)...spoon into a prepared pie or tart shell. Or, a dollop of each flavor into a martini glass & shove in one of our Gourmet Chocolate Wafers! Curd keeps 6 months, unopened & refrigerated. Please special order! $6.99 the jar!
TOMATOES! TOMATOES! TOMATOES!...Hopefully, the Season will extend to our Holiday Market & you will be able to get the most glorious of tomatoes...fresh from the winter greenhouse! Five Pound Bags...$18.50 Twenty Pound Box...$60
CLEAR GLASS ORNAMENTS...full of fleur de sel & cracked Madagascar black pepper! $6.99 each.
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TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY...with farm house
inspired gifts for everyone on your list and YOU!
COCKTAIL NIBBBLES...Great little additions to "Santa's
Stockings" or perfect to have in the Holiday Pantry for those unexpected guests...Perfect with wine
or "cocktails"...A selection of the farm house "cocktail nibbles" will certainly come in handy!
THE DEVIL'S NUTS...*oven roasted walnuts, pecans, cashews, peanuts & almonds bathed in butter, olive oil, "the devils'
secret spices" with a real kick in the pants from Satan's own pitchfork! Great with cocktail & even better on salads! $7.99 the bag
FARMHOUSE COCKTAIL NIBBLES...are very "ritzy" colorful rice nibbles with a little "kick" to them. Totally gourmet
& gorgeous to look at. Darling little cones full for $4.50 & Boxes full for $6.99
WASABI LACK BEAN & SOY NUTS...Colorful, spicy, crunchy, totally addictive & just pretty low in fat & carbs! Don't run out! Cones full for $4.50 and Boxes full for $6.99
GREEN "PEANUTS"...real peas dehydrated & bathed in just a little olive oil & sprinkled with sea salt. Crunch to the max...Healthy low fat snacking at it's finest! Cones full for $4.50 and Boxes for $6.99
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FLEUR DE SEL DE CARMAGUE...My friend & supplier at the Marche' Des Fleurs in Nice, France selected & sent me this very limited amount of finishing sea salt. Grayish in color with an amazing texture/flakiness that is so appealing to the tooth & better on most anything needing a last minute hit of salt! Love it to finish off our warmed Better Than Sex Sauce drizzled over ice cream...Or, any of the chocolate sauces for that matter! Grilled steak...salmon, chicken...oh yes! Touted to be the finest sea salt in the world...It's a steal in very cute jars...for $10!
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FRENCH CRYSTALLIZED GINGER...Sweet little containers full of the real thing from Nice! Great for baking...add some chopped to that batch of chocolate chip cookies...or drop a piece in your hot tea or coffee...Got a bad case of Holiday indigestion...just eat a little piece of this ginger candy...heartburn all gone! A really cool French trick, I learned on my last trip? Chop some crystal ginger very finely & add to your basic pie crust recipe...Mon Dieu! Fabulous! $4.99 for a cute little container full!
HERBES DES PROVENCE BRINE...can make a huge difference in your Holiday turkey, chicken, pork loins & even lamb. The perfect gift for the "gourmand" on your list. This brine cannot be found anywhere else...that's for sure! Unique en son genre! That free range fresh turkey you paid a fortune for, deserves to be brined before roasting! $12.50 the jar.
GIANT ZIVA PAPERWHITE BULBS...Super easy to grow bulbs produce multiple spikes of fragrant flowers. Anyone, can grow these! I have started some in an assortment of eclectic & gorgeous vintage & antique containers! You will be pleased to see what Sally is again "sharing" this Season! I will also have paperwhites again in glass tubes for $12.50. Call or email for more info about other containers! Two bulbs in a gift bag for $3.50.
MOSS WREATHS, TREES & BALLS...*hand crafted from 100% organic moss from the woods here at Widgeonwood!
Call or email for more information or size requests...Starting at $5.
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VERY SPECIAL RESERVES OF THE SEASON...As the growing Season progresses here at the farm we are always working on extra special products that our banished to the "cool cellar" awaiting HOLIDAY MARKET...Distinctive one of a kind gourmet delights!
GOURMET MUSTARDS...I have three kinds this Season! First of all...Cranberry Pomegranate...the addition of pomegranate sweetened an already fabulous mustard...a spicy, yet sweet mustard that is absolutely a must have for your Holiday cooking.
Then? The "newbie" at the farm & I must say a "work of Art" from the farmhouse kitchen...Blood Orange Mustard! French inspired from our last trip to Nice...I cannot tell you how GOOD this is! And, of course...Aneth Moutarde' (dill mustard)! These mustards put a "gourmet spin" on the simplest recipes calling for mustard...sandwiches, wraps, deviled eggs, potato salad, salad dressing...all kicked up to gourmet status with a farmhouse mustard! Seriously, and Oscar Meyer weenie on cheap white bun with one of these mustards becomes a James Beard award winner! Very limited supply! Fruit mustards...$8.99 & Dill mustard...$12.50
TRADITION...mandates that every year I create a FARMHOUSE HOLIDAY COCKTAIL...This year...I think you'll love "JINGLE JUICE"...Of course...starting out with the old Farmhouse Martini recipe...half Grey Goose Vodka & half #Ten Gin...we have been "macertating"whole fresh cranberries with pomegranate juice in the "martini mix"! Skip the bottle of wine for a "hostess gift" and grab a jar of "Jingle Juice". & one for you! Guaranteed to "ring your chimes &jingle your bells"! $10 the jar.
YOU ASKED FOR IT...Last year the Holiday cocktail was "Tuxedotini's", which were the basic farmhouse martini
with black pepper syrup! The "black pepper syrup" inspiration from France, of course! I was served a simple bowl of fresh
strawberries simply drizzled with this syrup! This Season? TELLICHERRY BLACK PEPPER
SYRUP...now you can make your own "tuxedotini's" or drizzle over fresh berries, glaze anything grilled & yes...drizzle
over ice cream! Made from the worlds finest peppercorns! $10 the jar.

CRANBERRIES & more CRANBERRIES...If you missed a jar of our CRANBERRY SPLURGE last Season...I promise you this years "splurge" is not to be missed. Sally's "splurge" is a cross between a very sexy salsa & a sauce reduction. Can be served over cream cheese for an appetizer or? Buy some of those frozen meat balls...any kind will do...preapare as directed & throw those balls in a chafing dish with a jar of my "spulrge"...They will be "dashing through the snow" to your house! PORT WINE BLOOD ORANGE CRANBERRY SAUCE...You've been begging me to make this simply divine sauce, which was a sell out last year...This cranberry sauce is like no other you will find anywhere...it deserves to be spooned right next to your brined turkey & dressing on that Holiday plate! This year's sauce is absolutely stellar! Splurge...$8.99 the jar & Sauce is $10 the jar. Very limited...special orders suggested!
IMPORTED MADAGASCAR VANILLA BEANS...My French connection in Nice is supplying
me with these fabulous fresh beans! How can you possibly get through the Holiday without making Creme' Brulee?
4 large beans for $5.99! Another prefect "stocking stuffer" for that "gourmet chef" on your list! Or? Perfect little
gifts for place settings at your dinner, bridge club? Look for little boxes of Vanilla Sugar...only $6.99!
THE SEASON'S SALAD DRESSINGS...PORTOFINO BALSAMIC, RED RASPBERRY VINAIGRETTE & FARMHOUSE HONEY MUSTARD...$8.50 each
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SPECIAL ORDERING! We encourage special orders for Holiday Market...they avoid disappointment & expedite getting waited on at Market! Fresh Products especially need to be SPECIAL ORDERED, please! We want to have enough of everything you need! TRY to call or email SPECIAL ORDERS right away! Cut off for FRESH PRODUCTS is November 30th!
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Most of our products can be shipped as gifts anywhere in the USA! Select a combination of products in your price range and we can gift box/basket and arrange to have it shipped for you in time for the Holidays! Personalized Custom Gift Boxes & Baskets can also be put together with your enclosure card & be ready for you to pick up on market day! Food is always perfect for your corporate gift giving...teachers, friend, neighbors, mailmen...Do let us know ASAP what you will need!
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Widgeonwood Gift Certificates are available in any denomination & refundable at regular Seasonal markets or may be redeemed at any time for any of our available products! A truly one of a king gift that always fits!
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If you don't see something you need...Please let us know...it doesn't necessarily mean we don't have it...Be sure and inquire!
Never hesitate to EMAIL (Widgeonwood2@aol.com) or CALL(573-584-3385) the farm! We look forward to hearing from you...even if you don't have an order!
Check out: http://www.widgeonwood.com/ & become a friend of the farm!
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Our vendors for Holiday Market this Season are going to be GRAND....We've put together a group of talented artisans with gorgeous, one of a kind products that will truly help you finish those long shopping lists and enable you to finally put up your feet & enjoy the rest of the SEASON!
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SEE YOU SOON! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE EVERYONE!!!

Holiday Market Friends of the Farm!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:38:00 +0000

The “Holiday Market” lineup for Saturday, December 3^rd…Mark your calendars and check those shopping lists…We will have something for everyone on your shopping lists!!! Join us at The Prairie Village Shops at the old Macy's Home Store...next to Einsteins...71st & Mission...in Prairie Village, Kansas, of course! From 10 until Five!

Our special artisans for this Season represent some of the most unique/one of a kind specialty items you will find anywhere in Kansas City…

Ted Knapp is an Architect and current president of the Greater Kansas City Art Association. Ted will be showing some of his oil paintings…some for display and some for sale! Ted’s work we think is truly extraordinary. We are excited for you to see the oil Ted did of David’s French Brittany, Dora! Teds work is so diverse and ranges from local to international subjects!

*****

Hand Knits by Mary Brown….You will so love this ladies handy work…Adorable hand- made fisherman knit sweaters & ponchos with or without hoods all hand knit....perfect for an American Girl doll or any 16 – 17 inch doll. Her darling Baby Hats are simply sweet and include some special Holiday designs…

Scarves…especially made for Holiday Market…these scarves are hand-knit and designed by Mary! You will want one for a gift and one for yourself…A perfect way to add a little “bling” to your knitting projects…knitting stitch markers and some for the Holidays, too…these are hand made by Mary, as well!

*****

Kayte Price will be doing a classic trunk show …Smiling Elephant Jewelry Studio! Her pieces are absolutely unique…from around the world unique and the quality of these pieces just glows…Necklaces, bracelets, earrings and so much more! We are really excited to see what Kayte is bringing to Holiday Market.

*****

Tammy Grace with Chelsea’s Art will be with us again this Season! We’ve come to depend on Tammy for her fabulous little $5 stocking stuffers! You will also love her recycled wine appetizer plates, fused glass cheese boards & wine bottle stoppers…Not to mention fused glass crosses & frames, art glass bowls, fused art earring & bracelets & necklace & fine silver & pendants!

*****

Ethan Stone has been taking wall-worthy photographs since he was nine years old. Now, a freshman at Shawnee Mission South High School, Ethan's photographic art ranges from close-up images of things we encounter every day to abstract compositions of architectural elements and still-life. His signature pieces involve manipulations of magnetic fluid to create eye-catching visuals. When he is not taking pictures, he enjoys playing drums in an alternative-rock band and in the school marching band. This is his first year participating in Widgeonwoods Holiday Market and is very excited to display his art!

*****

The Diana Collection…It wouldn’t be Holiday Market without our own Diana Abitz showing her gorgeous works of art….Fancy semi-precious stone bracelets where each stone is set in sterlings…beautiful and wearable from sportwear to fancy dress-up! Hand crafted stone necklaces & loads of sterling earrings that make incredible presents! Lots of pendants without necklaces! And wait until you see the “Dazzling Dangles” which are stone charm pendants that come with historic holistic information!

*****

Marilyn Bigler is new this Season to Holiday Market and you simply must check out here booth at the show! PB&J Interiors is independently owned and operated by Marilyn and she does residential design consulting and services. Marilyn targets small to medium projects in the greater Kansas City area and has been in business since 1999. Marilyn believes that everyone desires & deserves to have a custom designed home & she can help you on the path to personalize, beautify & jazz up your home! Evening and weekend appointments, only!

*****

Linda Laughlin Designs…Linda has been with us for years now & every year we are delighted to see what she’s made especially for our market! Linda specializes in gorgeous pendants, rings and earrings made with gemstones & sterling! Linda has a most unusual flair & her work is one of a kind and totally unique!

****

Greenleaf Gardens…Another one of our favorite Holiday Market traditions will be with us once again! They will be bringing all the components for you to buy and have put together your own personalized winter Holiday arrangements, not to mention their own gorgeous completed arrangements for sale in inserts all ready to drop into your containers! They are always willing to come to your home & custom design & install containers for you & change them out from Season to Season. Shrubs can be planted & amended with greens & annuals depending on the season! Greenleaf is a full service landscape small business with the most impeccable reference list…Do stop to talk to these professionals about all your landscape needs or upcoming planned projects! Gift certificates are available for these services…What a “green” gift for that person on your list that has everything, right?

****

If you need more information about any of our "artisans"...let me know & I will put in touch!

See you soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 22:06:00 +0000

You are cordially invited to join us....
Widgeonwood's 20th Anniversary
~Holiday Market~
Saturday, December 3rd ~ from 10 until 5
Inside the old Macy's Home Store, front entrance next to Einsteins!
~The Prairie Village Shops~
71st & Mission ~ Prairie Village, Kansas
~~~~~~~~~
Dear Friends...It's hard to believe we've been doing a Holiday Market for 20 years, now! Many of you have never missed this our Gala Event in all this time! As you know, preparation for this huge shopping extravaganza begins here at the farm, months before...We have lot's of new products, surprises & new participants that will simply delight you & help you finish those long shopping lists, so you can relax & enjoy the rest of this festive Season!
Won't you please mark your calendars & join us the 3rd? Do bring your friends & neighbors, too! Wishing all of you the Merriest of Holidays!
See you soon! Sally & David Calvin

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

THE STOCKINGS WERE HUNG BY THE CHIMMNEY
WITH CARE...Stuffed full of sweet treats from Widgeonwood! All of our candies are made
in small batches from the finest imported chocolate, farm fresh butter & cream & organic nutmeats. And, our packaging is always "dressed up" for the Holidays!
FRENCH CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES...These truffles are made from absolutely the best chocolate you will ever taste...they are astoundingly decadent & will make the most expert chocolate connoisseur weep with joy! The prefect gift for those impossible to buy for! Buy a box for you to have for that special New Year's Eve dessert! Ring in the New Year with Champagne & Widgeonwood truffles! $12.50 for the large box of 18 and $3.99 for the Truffles Pour Deaux (actually 4)
ENGLISH CHOCOLATE TOFFEE...There is other toffee out there...but, not like mine! Special orders for my toffee start coming in July, if you don't think that doesn't give you just a little clue how fabulous it is & yes, I am "tooting my own horn"...I don't want you to miss this Holiday delight! Perfect crunch, perfect milk chocolate that melts in your mouth, which will be doing the "happy dance"! $10 the box!
FRENCH CHOCOLATE BONBONS...What else is there to say about these heavenly confections? A box for your "bff", kind neighbor, teacher, Mom, Dad, mail man, hair dresser...And, of course...YOU! Bonbons & Champagne in a hot bubble bath will relieve the shopping stress & could even make your Mother-in-law coming to dinner not such a bad thing! Bonbons are medicinal & I hear tell not fattening if eaten standing up! $10 the box (one dozen) Gorgeous silver photo boxes...$15
ORGANIC PEANUT BRITTLE...I've been told it's the crunchiest! Organic raw peanuts, farm fresh butter, raw beet sugar & a secret or two...makes for the best peanut brittle you've ever tasted! $10 for one pound.
FRENCH BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE SAUCE...Avery limited amount of the finest chocolate sauce you can imagine. Drizzle over ice cream, cheesecake, add a splash to your coffee or hot chocolate...make everyone a gourmet chocolate shake...Or, better yet? A Widgeonwood "Chocotini"...4 ounces vodka, 2 ounces creme de cacao & 2 ounces of the chocolate sauce in a shaker with ice. Pour into 2 frozen martini glasses...you will hear the Herald Angels Harking...Pricey but so worth it! $20 the bottle!
DARK CHOCOLATE GRAND MARNIER FONDUE SAUCE, CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY TRUFFLE SAUCE, FRENCH CREME CARAMEL & BETTER THAN SEX SAUCE (a truly orgasmic experience)...This medley of sauces are decadent & instant gourmet desserts just waiting on your Holiday pantry shelf. One better than the other! Drizzle over ice cream, cheesecake, poundcake...Hell, warm & drip over Hostess Twinkies...just don't be without! All are $8.50 each! And, I will be glad to box up one of each for you...all ready beribbioned & ready to be gifted!
SPICY COCO LOCO ESPRESSO...A Spanish hot chocolate espresso mix that is not for the kids! You will taste the Spanish espresso with "kick butt" spiciness!Just add 2 tablespoons of the mix to 5 ounces of water & 5 ounces of cream & heat. Go ahead
add a splash of Cognac for the true Barcelona experience! A great dessert drink! $6.99
GOURMET CAKE MIXES...Quatre' Chocolat Gateau, Lemon Poppy Seed Torte/Muffin Mix &
Italiano Crema Torta...Easy to put together & make & fabulous for gift giving! $7.50 & $8.50 each.

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

IF YOU WANT TO BE ROCKIN' ROUND YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE...Then you will need lot's of Widgeonwood SALSAS' on your pantry shelves. Instant appetizers with a bowl of chips...melt a little cheese in your salsa & place in a chafing dish for a festive touch! One jar of any of our salsas thrown over a small pork loin or chicken, in the crockpot is always amazing...shred the meat, serve on little slidder buns topped with a spoon of our MaMa Mayhem's Hot ChowChow! TEQUILA LIME MANGO, SWEET TOMATILLO ONION, FIREROASTED FIVE PEPPER & FIREROASTED SWEET CORN & BLACK BEAN...$8.50 the jar! Let me gift box or basket one of each for someone really "spicy" on your Christmas list!
JELLY'S...Are always good on your toast or bagel...but these truly gourmet jelly's have so many other uses! Glaze a turkey, ham, pork loin, leg of lamb or chicken....Just melt in a pan & brush on periodically during roasting. Simply try mint jelly on a waffle...it melts right along with that little pat of butter...OMG...DELISH! For a truly gourmet duck sauce? Finely chop 1 shallot...add 1/3 cup cherry or cranberry jelly, 1 tbs. red wine, 1 tbs. balsamic vinegar & the juice of one orange...reduce down to a syrup! Have used this on duck breast, salmon or lamb chops? CHAMPAGNE CHERRY, CRANBERRY or MINT & WILD PLUM JELLY. $7.99 the jar.
LOOK OUT...Grandma will get run over by the crowd trying to get to the HOT STUFF...SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION (a hot pepper jelly) & RASPBERRY INFERNO (a hot peppered raspberry jam)! I am not kidding you...either one warmed & spooned over ice cream is totally gourmet! Spoon over cream cheese for appetizers...serve with crackers, bagel chips or slices of baguette!
YOU WILL BE IN A JAM IF YOU RUN OUT OF JAM...It's a long ol' winter & you want to have several
"jars of summer" on your shelves. MISSOURI BLUEBERRY, WILD MISSOURI BLACKBERRY, SEEDLESS RED RASPBERRY, SUMMER LADY PEACH, QUEEN VICTORIA RHUBARB, OZARK BEAUTY STRAWBERRY & FIREROASTED APPLE BUTTER (cooked outside in old iron kettles over an open fire)! $6.99 to $7.99 the jar. I'll box a "trio" for you, for a tasty gift!
SUGAR FREE ...Means that the fruit is sweetened with a concentrated grape juice & you will never miss the sugar! Look for: BLACKBERRY, BLUEBERRY, SEEDLESS RED RASPBERRY, SEEDLESS BLACK RASPBERRY, STRAWBERRY & PEACH & FIREROASTED APPLE BUTTER, too!
$7.99 the jar. Let me bag, box or basket a selection for your hard to buy for on that shopping list!
OUR ABSOLUTELY FINEST JAM? VERY SPECIAL SEEDLESS BLACK RASPBERRY...this super intense jam is absolutely the best we make here a the farm. A very limited number of jars...First come...first served!!! $7.99 the jar!
REAL ENGLISH MARMALADE...*A recipe I brought back from a little hotel in
Brighton, England. A tiny bit bitter & a whole lot of sweet...just the way a true "orange marme" is
supposed to be. For a Fab "meatwipe"? 1/2 cup marme, 1/3 cup grand marnier, 1/3 cup balsamic & 2 tbs.
of my new Blood Orange Mustard. Brush on grilled duck, pig, turkey, chicken or piggy! $7.99 the jar
FIRE ROASTED MEAT PAINTS...MERLOT, RASPBERRY OR FARMHOUSE
The perfect gift for your "gourmet griller"! $8.50 the bottle!

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

FARMHOUSE FRESH...All these products are made at the last minute...So, if you could please, please special order ASAP...Sally would be most grateful so I have enough product/jars etc. Call now while you are thinking of it & please no later than the 27th! It will be so appreciated!
'"CHEESEWHEEL"..Sally has made "God only knows" how many "CheeseWheels" in the last 20 years & I can honestly tell you that I still love to eat them! Winter "CheeeWheel" is three layers with cream cheese...parsley & sun dried tomato, extra sharp N.Y. Cheddar & baby Vidalia onion. The 10-inch wheel serves 2030/$60...the 7-inch wheel serves 10-18/$30 . Holiday "CheeeWheel" wedges are $6.99.
Please specify if you want topping. We have fresh parsley, rosemary & dried cranberries! "CheeseWheel" without topping will keep in the coldest part of your refrigerator for at least 3 weeks & with topping 10 days. Don't disappoint your family & friends...for some of you, a 20 year tradition. SPECIAL ORDER!!!
ITALIAN PARSLEY OR RED PEPPER PESTO & NICOISE' OLIVE TAPENADE...are Holiday
entertaining must haves. Pesto simply added to cooked pasta is an instant meal...throw in a little shrimp + a tossed salad with a baguettes & you've got a "company's coming" meal in minutes! Pesto freezes very well...so now is the time to stock up for the long winter ahead! Tapenade is perfect spread on baguettes slices, scooped up with Belgian endive leaves, perk up a pasta, wrap, sandwich or spread on smoked salmon & roll it up for a fast little appetizer All are $7.99 the jar. Please special order...fresh organic ingredients are at a premium this time of year & I must order in advance!
FRESH REAL ITALIAN STYLE TOMATO BRUSCHETTA...made with our amazing fresh winter tomatoes, basil from the greenhouse, fresh garlic, imported olive oil & balsamic vinegar...All you need is a baguette...INSTANT...crowd pleasing appetizer...$8.50 the jar. Do special order!
TOMATO or CUCUMBER BISQUE...Are both possible BY SPECIAL ORDER ONLY! Elegant gourmet starters for that special Holiday meal. Or, an entree' with some added grilled shrimp or crab! Bisque will keep 2 or 3 weeks. $15 the jar.
GAZPACHO...We've become pretty famous for our Spanish gazpacho! We'll have RED SPANISH, SPICY RED & PEACH...Talk about the perfect little "appetizer/cocktail" ...Freeze little "shooter" or martini glasses...Spike your quart of gazpacho with a cup of vodka & pour into the frozen glasses....rim with a little of our French sea salt & a grilled shrimp! Throw another log on the fire & serve up that gazpacho in a frozen bowl...swirl with sour cream & taste the best the summer had to offer...Dreaming of market opening again in Spring! $9.99 the jar. Limited quantity...special orders suggested!
REAL ENGLISH CURD...Key Lime, Lemon or Raspberry! Wonderful on scones or toast, of course! Or for an instant gourmet dessert....Fold one jar of curd into 2-3 cups of whipped cream (or Coolwhip)...spoon into a prepared pie or tart shell. Or, a dollop of each flavor into a martini glass & shove in one of our Gourmet Chocolate Wafers! Curd keeps 6 months, unopened & refrigerated. Please special order! $6.99 the jar!
TOMATOES! TOMATOES! TOMATOES!...Hopefully, the Season will extend to our Holiday Market & you will be able to get the most glorious of tomatoes...fresh from the winter greenhouse! Five Pound Bags...$18.50 Twenty Pound Box...$60
CLEAR GLASS ORNAMENTS...full of fleur de sel & cracked Madagascar black pepper! $6.99 each.

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

TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY...with farm house
inspired gifts for everyone on your list and YOU!
COCKTAIL NIBBBLES...Great little additions to "Santa's
Stockings" or perfect to have in the Holiday Pantry for those unexpected guests...Perfect with wine
or "cocktails"...A selection of the farm house "cocktail nibbles" will certainly come in handy!
THE DEVIL'S NUTS...*oven roasted walnuts, pecans, cashews, peanuts & almonds bathed in butter, olive oil, "the devils'
secret spices" with a real kick in the pants from Satan's own pitchfork! Great with cocktail & even better on salads! $7.99 the bag
FARMHOUSE COCKTAIL NIBBLES...are very "ritzy" colorful rice nibbles with a little "kick" to them. Totally gourmet
& gorgeous to look at. Darling little cones full for $4.50 & Boxes full for $6.99
WASABI LACK BEAN & SOY NUTS...Colorful, spicy, crunchy, totally addictive & just pretty low in fat & carbs! Don't run out! Cones full for $4.50 and Boxes full for $6.99
GREEN "PEANUTS"...real peas dehydrated & bathed in just a little olive oil & sprinkled with sea salt. Crunch to the max...Healthy low fat snacking at it's finest! Cones full for $4.50 and Boxes for $6.99
~~~~~
FLEUR DE SEL DE CARMAGUE...My friend & supplier at the Marche' Des Fleurs in Nice, France selected & sent me this very limited amount of finishing sea salt. Grayish in color with an amazing texture/flakiness that is so appealing to the tooth & better on most anything needing a last minute hit of salt! Love it to finish off our warmed Better Than Sex Sauce drizzled over ice cream...Or, any of the chocolate sauces for that matter! Grilled steak...salmon, chicken...oh yes! Touted to be the finest sea salt in the world...It's a steal in very cute jars...for $10!
~~~~~
FRENCH CRYSTALLIZED GINGER...Sweet little containers full of the real thing from Nice! Great for baking...add some chopped to that batch of chocolate chip cookies...or drop a piece in your hot tea or coffee...Got a bad case of Holiday indigestion...just eat a little piece of this ginger candy...heartburn all gone! A really cool French trick, I learned on my last trip? Chop some crystal ginger very finely & add to your basic pie crust recipe...Mon Dieu! Fabulous! $4.99 for a cute little container full!
HERBES DES PROVENCE BRINE...can make a huge difference in your Holiday turkey, chicken, pork loins & even lamb. The perfect gift for the "gourmand" on your list. This brine cannot be found anywhere else...that's for sure! Unique en son genre! That free range fresh turkey you paid a fortune for, deserves to be brined before roasting! $12.50 the jar.
GIANT ZIVA PAPERWHITE BULBS...Super easy to grow bulbs produce multiple spikes of fragrant flowers. Anyone, can grow these! I have started some in an assortment of eclectic & gorgeous vintage & antique containers! You will be pleased to see what Sally is again "sharing" this Season! I will also have paperwhites again in glass tubes for $12.50. Call or email for more info about other containers! Two bulbs in a gift bag for $3.50.
MOSS WREATHS, TREES & BALLS...*hand crafted from 100% organic moss from the woods here at Widgeonwood!
Call or email for more information or size requests...Starting at $5.

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VERY SPECIAL RESERVES OF THE SEASON...As the growing Season progresses here at the farm we are always working on extra special products that our banished to the "cool cellar" awaiting HOLIDAY MARKET...Distinctive one of a kind gourmet delights!
GOURMET MUSTARDS...I have three kinds this Season! First of all...Cranberry Pomegranate...the addition of pomegranate sweetened an already fabulous mustard...a spicy, yet sweet mustard that is absolutely a must have for your Holiday cooking.
Then? The "newbie" at the farm & I must say a "work of Art" from the farmhouse kitchen...Blood Orange Mustard! French inspired from our last trip to Nice...I cannot tell you how GOOD this is! And, of course...Aneth Moutarde' (dill mustard)! These mustards put a "gourmet spin" on the simplest recipes calling for mustard...sandwiches, wraps, deviled eggs, potato salad, salad dressing...all kicked up to gourmet status with a farmhouse mustard! Seriously, and Oscar Meyer weenie on cheap white bun with one of these mustards becomes a James Beard award winner! Very limited supply! Fruit mustards...$8.99 & Dill mustard...$12.50
TRADITION...mandates that every year I create a FARMHOUSE HOLIDAY COCKTAIL...This year...I think you'll love "JINGLE JUICE"...Of course...starting out with the old Farmhouse Martini recipe...half Grey Goose Vodka & half #Ten Gin...we have been "macertating"whole fresh cranberries with pomegranate juice in the "martini mix"! Skip the bottle of wine for a "hostess gift" and grab a jar of "Jingle Juice". & one for you! Guaranteed to "ring your chimes &jingle your bells"! $10 the jar.
YOU ASKED FOR IT...Last year the Holiday cocktail was "Tuxedotini's", which were the basic farmhouse martini
with black pepper syrup! The "black pepper syrup" inspiration from France, of course! I was served a simple bowl of fresh
strawberries simply drizzled with this syrup! This Season? TELLICHERRY BLACK PEPPER
SYRUP...now you can make your own "tuxedotini's" or drizzle over fresh berries, glaze anything grilled & yes...drizzle
over ice cream! Made from the worlds finest peppercorns! $10 the jar.

CRANBERRIES & more CRANBERRIES...If you missed a jar of our CRANBERRY SPLURGE last Season...I promise you this years "splurge" is not to be missed. Sally's "splurge" is a cross between a very sexy salsa & a sauce reduction. Can be served over cream cheese for an appetizer or? Buy some of those frozen meat balls...any kind will do...preapare as directed & throw those balls in a chafing dish with a jar of my "spulrge"...They will be "dashing through the snow" to your house! PORT WINE BLOOD ORANGE CRANBERRY SAUCE...You've been begging me to make this simply divine sauce, which was a sell out last year...This cranberry sauce is like no other you will find anywhere...it deserves to be spooned right next to your brined turkey & dressing on that Holiday plate! This year's sauce is absolutely stellar! Splurge...$8.99 the jar & Sauce is $10 the jar. Very limited...special orders suggested!
IMPORTED MADAGASCAR VANILLA BEANS...My French connection in Nice is supplying
me with these fabulous fresh beans! How can you possibly get through the Holiday without making Creme' Brulee?
4 large beans for $5.99! Another prefect "stocking stuffer" for that "gourmet chef" on your list! Or? Perfect little
gifts for place settings at your dinner, bridge club? Look for little boxes of Vanilla Sugar...only $6.99!
THE SEASON'S SALAD DRESSINGS...PORTOFINO BALSAMIC, RED RASPBERRY VINAIGRETTE & FARMHOUSE HONEY MUSTARD...$8.50 each

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SPECIAL ORDERING! We encourage special orders for Holiday Market...they avoid disappointment & expedite getting waited on at Market! Fresh Products especially need to be SPECIAL ORDERED, please! We want to have enough of everything you need! TRY to call or email SPECIAL ORDERS right away! Cut off for FRESH PRODUCTS is November 27th!!!
~~~~~
Most of our products can be shipped as gifts anywhere in the USA! Select a combination of products in your price range and we can gift box/basket and arrange to have it shipped for you in time for the Holidays! Personalized Custom Gift Boxes & Baskets can also be put together with your enclosure card & be ready for you to pick up on market day! Food is always perfect for your corporate gift giving...teachers, friend, neighbors, mailmen...Do let us know ASAP what you will need!
~~~~~
Widgeonwood Gift Certificates are available in any denomination & refundable at regular Seasonal markets or may be redeemed at any time for any of our available products! A truly one of a king gift that always fits!
~~~~!
If you don't see something you need...Please let us know...it doesn't necessarily mean we don't have it...Be sure and inquire!
Never hesitate to EMAIL (Widgeonwood2@aol.com) or CALL(573-584-3385) the farm! We look forward to hearing from you...even if you don't have an order!
Check out: http://www.widgeonwood.com/ & become a friend of the farm!
~~~~~
Our vendors for Holiday Market this Season are going to be GRAND....We've put together a group of talented artisans with gorgeous, one of a kind products that will truly help you finish those long shopping lists and enable you to finally put up your feet & enjoy the rest of the SEASON!
~~~~
SEE YOU SOON! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE EVERYONE!!!

More Lemon Pudding pics...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:10:00 +0000

More precious "Lemon" pics...

Lemon Pudding Pictures...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 17:57:00 +0000

Please find it in you heart to give my "Lemon Pudding" a home...He's so soft & sweet & wants to PURR just for you!

Father's Day Weekend...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:56:00 +0000

Widgeonwood in "the Village"

Saturday, June 18th...from 8 a.m. until One

A Father's Day Weekend Celebration!!

The Prairie Village Shops @ 71st & Mission

Under the "Clock Tower" in the "Heart" of Prairie Village

Always a Rain or Shine market!

*****

"A man's children and his garden both reflect the amount of weeding done during the growing season". -- Unknown

*****

Dear Comrades...

Please...hear me out without getting your "politics" in a bunch...Since "feeding people" is pretty much what I am all about...I feel that I should be able to make comment about the recent USDA revision of the "Food Pyramid"...to a "Food Plate"! Sadly, farmers were not consulted.

First of all...FOOD IS NOT, NOR EVER SHOULD BE POLITICAL...Please be assured that the great tasting tomato you buy from me on Saturday...Has no political aspirations...Has no "party"...Nor, intends to ever run for office or vote! That perfect tomato wants to make its way on to that new USDA "Food Plate"...sadly, no longer allowed between two slices of toasted cheap white bread, a bit of iceberg lettuce and several rashers of good ol' AMERICAN bacon & a big old swipe of Miracle Whip...dammit!

Me, the farmer and my personal politics? I can promise you wholeheartedly...NOT WHAT YOU THINK. In fact...my new non-political agenda is a complete turn around from what I always thought I would believe in. I no longer have a "party" & considering my past very rabid, radical & wholehearted participation...I am somewhat frightened by my new convictions & hopes for this great country we live in. And, if you ask me, I will be glad to share with you my thoughts...However, I will not use this forum to stand on a "soapbox"...as much as I would like to. I will warn you that I am as enthusiastic & proactive in my new agenda for our country as I was in the past & if you seek my opinion...I will make every attempt to recruit you...So, best we don't go there...For those of you that have already "signed" up...I thank you. We will be "mustering" soon!

What I am asking for here, Comrades..is for all of us to have a sense of humor about our governments assertion in our lives to control, inform & educate us like we all were complete & total idiots...And, when we quit laughing? Maybe we can get up off our obviously chubby dimpled butts & figure out what we can do about being told what to eat & how to think & demand that we will no longer pay out our hard earned tax dollars for such absurdity. I heard the "Food Plate" cost us somewhere in the neighborhood of TWO MILLION DOLLARS...! I think that money would have gone a long way to feed hungry people in this country! The crime? That there are hungry people in this great country!

All of this came to me while wandering the aisles of Walmart last week...Good Lord, the last thing on the minds of my fellow shoppers was the standard outdated "Food Pyramid"...And, certainly NOT the new & revised "Food Plate"...And, if they did have the USDA FOOD PLATE in mind...since our government neglected to give us the exact SIZE OF THE PLATE...the shoppers I observed seem to think that the new government regulation plate size to be more like that of a car tire or worse yet, the size of a truck tire!

How can this be an improvement, I wonder? I over heard two women talking about what the big fork next to the"Food Plate" stands for? And, they both concluded that the fork was the "free choice" area of the new & improved meal plan...And, obviously that big fork stood for what ever you wanted for dessert...So, off they went in their elastic waisted, over stressed spandex britches to the frozen food dessert section, happily filling their carts with pastries, ice cream, cakes & pies! All the while extolling the virtues of our very own first lady's grand new all-American diet plan...Hey, I am only reporting EXACTLY what I heard...Do not shoot the messenger...please!

I showed this new concept to my Mother...80 years old, mind you. What do you think, Mom? Well, she say's...where's the MEAT, you mean they don't eat meat in Washington? And, you know your Father doesn't drink milk...So? Where's the symbol for my wine and his beer? And, you know your Dad only likes potatoes, green beans, salad with Ranch & MEAT...And, where's the fish? Surely, there is a fish section. You know, they don't like Catholics in Washington. "What are we going to eat on Friday's during, Lent?," she say's just pretty pissed off. Grains? What is this huge section about? Cows eat grains...People eat bread & butter & we have to have rice with our chop suey...Where's the spaghetti? I don't see any spaghetti section...Spaghetti & macaroni & cheese are good for you...Why isn't that on the plate, she wonders?

Mom concludes that this whole "plate thing" is just pretty stupid & will only confuse old people. And, young people don't care...They like McDonald's & Applebee's, she is quick to point out. Besides she say's with even more indignation, "Our first lady should be more worried about her cigarette smoking husband than telling me what to eat!" Out of the mouths of little old ladies, right?

In summation...I have always looked at business as a big "PIE"...If you are good at what you do, work very hard & treat your customers very well...you will get a bigger piece of the PIE...Just pretty plain & simple. Take a look at the new "American Pie Plate"...Sally is seeing half that "Food Plate" is devoted to FRUIT & VEGETABLES! USA...USA...USA!!!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all our special Dad's! Take a day off from the new All-American Way of Eating & let's be BAD, this weekend! I am here to assist you with this plan!

With much love & humor & PEACE!

~Sally Calvin

*****

We intend to help you cover all your food groups on the new USDA "Food Plate" this Father's Day weekend with the freshest farm food possible...And, since it is a Holiday Weekend...I think we can give ourselves permission to definitely use the "Fork Theory" our Walmart friends have adopted! Let's begin...

Fresh Fruit....Peaches, Raspberries, Blueberries & Strawberries at the peak of perfection. This combination of sweet & juicy fresh fruit deserves a recipe made just for Dad!

Farmhouse Fruit Cobbler...

Preheat your oven to 35O degrees...You will want to bake this on the upper middle part of your oven. In a 13X9-inch baking pan or dish...Melt an entire stick of real butter in the pan in the oven. In a medium size bowl...whisk together 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1-1/2 cups sugar, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. salt...gradually whisk in 1-1/2 cups half & half...making a smooth batter. Pour the batter into the pan with the melted butter. Spread over the batter...1 cup each sliced peaches, raspberries, blueberries & strawberries...Top the fruit with a dusting of cardamom & sprinkle with 1/4 cup dark brown sugar. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 50 to 60 minutes...until the batter is browned & the fruit is bubbly. Serve warm w/big dollops of whipped cream sweetened with powdered sugar & flavored with some Cognac...Super fast to throw together and totally farmhouse gourmet!!! Serves 8.

Tomatoes....The perfect gift for the Dad that has everything? A five pound bag of our divine fresh tomatoes...Of course, you will have to include at least 3 pounds of bacon, which you can find at Hen House...lettuce optional. Tomatoes on Sale again this week...5 pounds $18!

I’m including a few really special fresh tomato recipes for you to try this weekend! Summer Simple Tomato, Peach & Avocado Salad…You will need 3 peaches, peeled & sliced, 3 tomatoes, cut into wedges, 2 avocados, peeled & cut into wedges. Arrange the peach slices, tomatoes & avocados in a pretty pattern on a serving platter. Whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup fig balsamic vinegar, 1 tbs. Dijon mustard, 2 tbs. chopped fresh basil leaves & salt & pepper to taste. Drizzle over the fruit & serve at once. Makes 4 servings.

Another favorite & easy to throw together summer recipe is my Farmhouse Tomato Pie…You will need 1-9 inch froze pie shell, thawed. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Sprinkle the bottom of the pie crust with 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You will need 4-5 tomatoes, sliced. Sprinkle the slices w/ salt & let stand for 10 minutes, drain on a paper towel. Line the pie shell with the tomatoes, sprinkling them with ½ cup finely chopped scallions. In a bowl, mix together…3/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tsp. cornstarch, 1-1/2 shredded extra sharp Cheddar cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves & salt & pepper, to taste. Gently place dollops of the mayo mixture over the tomatoes & spread to cover, as much as possible. Sprinkle with a little more Parmesan & bake at 375 for 30-40 minutes…the pie crust will be golden and the mayo mixture starting to brown. Serves 6!

Zucchini & Heirloom Yellow Crookneck Summer Squash…Less is more when creating recipes with these tender & flavorful squash. This is another simple French inspired recipe that’s so easy to put together…Summer Squash Carpaccio

Thinly slice 1 yellow squash & 1 zucchini lengthwise on a mandolin…taking great care not to cut off your fingers…Pile about a fifth of the squash on a serving plate…sprinkle with some minced shallots & chopped fresh herbs…drizzle with fresh lemon juice, olive oil & salt & cracked black pepper. Make about 5 layers just like the first…Top with grated Parmesan or pecorino…let stand for 20 minutes before serving…Voila! Absolutely divine!

White Rose Potatoes….You know these are the best spuds you will find anywhere & in honor of Dad’s Day we have to do something spectacular with these little babies…Arnold, my Dad, always votes for my super easy…

Frenched Potatoes…in case you forgot how to prepare these? First of all, always make far more than you will think you need. Butter a large glass baking dish or pan. Start slicing the little potatoes very, very thin….on a mandolin is good but not necessary….All you have to do is scrub & dry the spuds…Don’t bother to peel…Layer then in the pan or dish¸ seasoning with salt & pepper as you go. When the pan is full of sliced spuds…Pour on the cream…Yes, whipping cream...just until you can see it rise above the bottom layer or two of potatoes….Dot the top with knobs of butter. Place in a preheated 375 degree oven for about 40-50 minutes….the potatoes will be bubbly & browned on top…Add some cream if necessary during the baking if the potatoes look dry! I promise you your guests will be wild for these glorious spuds…Talk about farmhouse simple?

Asparagus….we might have another round of asparagus this Saturday. The bit of rain & cooler weather seems to have given the patch a boost. We won’t let it go to seed until next week! Not sure how much we’ll have so special ordering is suggested.

Cucumbers...This recipe is so easy & so delightful. Creamy Cucumbers…Start out by thinly slicing at least 2 cucumbers…leave the peel on. Another good thing for the mandolin if you have one…Add 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced & one of our French White Onions, thinly sliced. Mix together ½ cup red wine vinegar, 1 tbs. sugar, a tsp. of black pepper, ¼ cup mayo, some fresh chopped dill & sea salt to taste. Pour over the cucumbers & chill for several hours before serving!

Look for: French Frog Leg Shallots, French White Onions, fresh Garlic, Baby Cabbages, Heirloom Baby Cucumbers, French Scallions & so much more!

The Boulangerie…All Dad’s want PIE & they most certainly want one of Mary’s Pies…Special ordering avoids disappointment….apple, blueberry, cherry, cherry streusel, peach, peach raspberry & strawberry rhubarb! Place your orders by early tomorrow morning, please. Same thing goes for Pecan Rolls…Arnold’s pick this weekend. We’ll have French Baguettes, Foccacia & fresh baked Cookies…The Sweet Breads this week…Carrot, Butter Pecan Banana, Butter Pecan Apple & Pumpkin…The Quiche of the Week? Spinach Parmesan Herb!

The Soup Cart...The heats been turned back on & there isn’t anything more delightful than ice cold GAZPACHO…Red Spanish or Spicy Peach it’s the perfect go to food when it’s too hot to eat anything else! Stock your refrigerators this week…Be sure & prop up good ol’ Dad poolside with a big old bowl of gazpacho spiked with a little vodka! By the way…find those plastic popscicle makers & make some Gazpacho Pops…can even be spiked. Talk about a cool summer appetizer! Just don’t let the kids get a hold of them!

We will have both Tomato & Cucumber Bisque… Either one of these soups make elegant appetizers or entrées! Served in martini glasses rimmed with grilled shrimp…Way Cool!

Pesto’s, Tapenade & Real Italian Bruschetta….Pesto’s this week? Italian Parsley, Smoked Red Pepper, Cilantro Lime & Lemon Dill. Any or all of these are must haves for entertaining this weekend. Spoon any of these on grilled crostini for instant appetizers. Make a cold pasta salad! Summer survival food!

Gifts for Dad? Here’s a special thought! One each of our fabulous sauces…French

Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Sauce, French Chocolate Grand Marnier Sauce &

Better Than Sex Sauce…Gift boxed just for Dad! Normally $7.99 the jar, but for

Dad’s Day…All three for $20! You might want a set for yourself, right?

Pick a Peck of Pickles just for Dad! Arnold’s favorite are my “organic swizzle

sticks”. He’s quite spoiled & only wants his daily martini stirred with either one

of my Dilled Green Beans or Pickled Asparagus! We have Marinated Mushrooms

Pickled Green Tomato Slices, Fresh Pack Dills & Bread & Butters. 10% off any

Pickles this weekend in honor of Dad’s everywhere. Let me know if I can put a gift box or bag together for you!

Dad’s Day Jam’s & Jellies Sale….10% off! Arnold’s pick is always Raspberry Inferno! He likes that with bagels & cream cheese. I am not sure which section of the “Food Plate” this might fall under & he certainly doesn’t care. I personally like to glaze grilled chicken breasts with this delightful preserve. But then again if you haven’t tried warming Spontaneous Combustion (hot pepper jelly) warmed & spooned over vanilla is a gourmet party in your mouth! Sweet Tomato Jam is another very old heirloom recipe…Spooned over cream cheese for a brunch appetizer & served with toast points? Fabulous! Wild Plum is another amazing jam! Buy frozen egg rolls & dip them in a mixture of my wild plum jam & soy sauce! Pick out a selection of jam’s & jellies & we’ll make a sweet gift box or bag for Dad!

Salsa’s …10% off ! Apple, Black Bean & Corn or Cherry! The perfect easy take along to any party…just don’t forget to pick up a bag of chips? Even better? Buy a small boneless pork loin & place it in your crock pot. Pour in a jar of either the Apple Salsa or the Cherry Salsa…turn the pot on & go away for 5 or 6 hours. Shred the pork & serve on little slider buns topped with coleslaw.! Amazing!

Happy Father’s Day to all our special Dad’s! Put your feet up & have a great weekend!

*****

Bristleridge Gardens….

Marcia has the most fabulous color bowls & decorative pots just waiting for you to pick up this Saturday! The heat has caused all of us to have not so good looking spots in our beds & gardens & these colorful additions can spruce up those less than perfect areas. Her hanging baskets are HUGE & so well priced! I know you need one in your entry way!

Did you see those bouquets last week? Good Lord, they were gorgeous! Come early…they will go fast!

Marcia has a selection of the most beautiful succulents that make for the most exotic textures & colors…whether in pots or in your beds!

Herb Gardens are still possible! Make one for Dad this weekend & really surprise him! A true gift for the gourmet cooking Dad that has everything!

Marcia’s selection of perennials is huge! Be sure & take a look! I know she’s got some great pricing especially for Dad’s Day!

*****

Thanks to one and all for making our little market in the “heart” of Prairie Village so special! It’s just a joy to see everyone each & every Saturday! And, there is so much to do at the Prairie Village shops! Be sure & tell all your friends! We are a “word of mouth” business & dependent on you telling everyone where we are!

*****

Widgeonwood stays in touch in Kansas City in the following ways! The Independent, of course! Go to www.kcindependent.com ! The Tastebud Magazine! Go to www.tastebudmagazine.com! Or the Prairie Village Post, www.pvpost.com !

Father

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:55:00 +0000

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:33:00 +0000

Widgeonwood in "the Village"...

Saturday, June 11th, from 8 a.m until One

The Prairie Village Shops @ 71st & Mission

Under the "Clock Tower" the "Heart" of Prairie Village

Absolutely a Rain or Shine Market!!!

*****

"We must build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear"

~Martin Luther King Jr.

*****

The Great Flood of 93' was a 500 year flood. So, what's up with another 500 year flood coming our way again? I resent the hell out of this turn of events. I don't want to know about hydrological measurements & volumetric flow rate. I don't want to worry 24/7 about how much rain we might have that will raise the river levels to a point that our best planting areas are under water & we become BOAT PEOPLE! I do not want to know the name of every person with the Missouri Corp of engineers who work around the clock...begging them for the last river level reading. I particularly resent having to put myself in the old "just look around at how bad other people have it by comparison" mode! None of this was supposed to happen again in our lifetime. But, here it comes...at a rate of 150,000 cubic feet per second. And, get this? We need rain here at the farm. Be careful what you wish for, right?

In 20 years of doing business...David & I missed one market, due to the flood of 1993! We were quite honestly too afraid to leave the farm. One more heavy rain & all the sandbags that had been placed around our home were not going to protect it from the wall of water that might come down the creek that borders our property. Luckily that rain never came. The river went to 38.7 & we were fine. Will we get lucky again? That's the question? I will tell you that the day I called David at work & suggested he might want to come home & take a look at the creek...my blood ran cold & I began stacking our furniture & possessions on top of each other...quite like a lunatic...but, seemingly the logical thing to do at the time.

We did at least two markets where we actually loaded produce into a row boat & took it across the creek to the truck on the other side. We actually loaded sheep in that same boat, so we wouldn't miss the county sheep show. All the while wondering how in God's name did Noah get all those animals to go two by two onto the Ark? Sheep being some of God's most docile of all animals? Yeah right? You try loading a 400 pound Ram into a row boat. Ugly...very ugly!

It's heart breaking to hear of people evacuating entire little towns because of impending DOOM & FLOOD. Grabbing their possessions and running for higher ground...It's equally heart wrenching to listen to the farmers that have poured their heart & soul & last dollars into planting crops that will never be harvested. And, at the same time I don't want those horrible guilt feelings we had in 93'...praying that the levees in our area would break...because that would lower the chance of worse flooding on our farm. Sadly, we're headed back to the same exact bad thoughts...Please God, let the levees go...Or?

I never want to stand on the river bluff overlooking the Missouri River at Jefferson City while standing next to a sobbing family. They lived in Cedar City. Cedar City was gone. And, so was their home and all their possessions. I wept right along with them.

So begins the great debate here at the farm. What exactly was the river level when we indeed became BOAT PEOPLE in 1993. And, how high is the water going to get once more & when is it going to happen? Our new home is way up on a hill away from any possible harm from rising water...But, the old house, now a rental, who know's? And, regardless...if the water comes up to the levels they are predicting, we will indeed lose a tremendous amount of crops & once again, park our trucks & van across the creek & become quite adept at boating. New problem? Going to have to leave at least one vehicle on this side of the creek to get up & down the hill. I assure you, there is no way we can walk up & down this road up here in the heat.

How can we be reliving 1993? I don't want to have to lock myself in the bathroom with my cats & turn on the fan to drown out the roar of the creek & the pounding rain. I don't want to be trying to salvage my equipment while standing barefoot amongst the snakes. I don't want gamma globulin in my butt because I'd been standing in back water that could infect me with God only know's what...I don't want to smell the awful smell of rotting vegetation, which becomes worse when the temperatures are approaching 95 with 85% humidity. God please don't let me watch our neighbors machine shop go down the creek not far from my front window...and the dead animals? I never want to wake up on a Sunday morning to find out that a young man was pulled from the creek in his pick up truck, because of his youth & inexperience, thought he could beat the water?

Big girls don't whine, I am not a wimp & farmers NEVER whine. I am not whining! We will be out tending the creek side crops, as usual. I will continue with the planting...as per usual. And, we will continue with our progressive planting program...COME HELL OR HIGH WATER....It's what we do! Just so you know? You fuel our passion for what we do...

And, I do...David & I do what we do...because we have the most fabulous base of friends & clients on the planet!

I am asking for your prayers & positive energy, not for us...But, our neighbors...We will be inconvenienced but still able to bring you absolutely fabulous fresh food...despite the horrendous flooding. We might look a little worse for wear...but, we'll get to the city! Our contractors depending more than ever on us getting to the Village...This is absolute true CSA...community supported agriculture at it's finest!

Our theme song...once again Come Hell or High Water... 2011! Hang in there with us...I think we're once again in for one HELL of a ride! One day at a time!

~Sally Calvin

*****

You just have to be an eternal optimist to be a farmer. We simply set all the worries aside each & every Saturday & head to market knowing that we can count on each & every one of you to be your wonderful enthusiastic selves about all we do! One day at a time, one market at time...This Saturday is truly representative of what this SEASON is all about...A lot of sunshine, a little irrigation & the heat make for glorious farm fresh food...

Blueberries, Strawberries & Raspberries...A rare occurrence to have all three of these amazing berries at one market. The intense flavor & sweetness of all three absolutely incredible. Simple bowls full of berries & a fabulous glass of Champagne to toast Mother Nature's goodness in providing us with such glorious display!

Peaches...There will be peaches...not a whole lot, just yet. But, glorious Dixie Reds are the variety! A friend of mine is bringing these back from a South Carolina orchard...One of the earliest varieties...these peaches are intensely flavored & sweet. I had some of these last year & regretfully did not have enough to bring to market. Come early...they will go fast.

Rhubarb...This will be the "swan song". If you haven't gotten some frozen, this is the last chance to do this. Rhubarb is simply sliced into little 1-inch pieces & thrown in zip loc bags & then in the freezer! Pies, sauces, jams...all possible come the Holidays!

Tomatoes...The best there are! Here is a recipe for a Roquefort Bacon Tomato Salad!

You will need about a 1/2 pound of crispy cooked bacon. I make at least 2 pounds of bacon in the oven on Sunday's & use the bacon all week long. A bag or 2 of our French Mesclun Salad or better yet? A bag of the French Mesclun & a bag of our Arugula. Place the greens in a large salad bowl. Add 4 or 5 medium sized tomatoes rough chopped, 10 French Scallions, thinly sliced, 1/2 cup Roquefort, crumbled & crumble the bacon & add to the mix. Dress with our White Trash Salad Dressing.

I am telling you this is a marriage between white trash & gourmet. Fabulous!

Asparagus...also the season "swan song"! Asparagus is easily dipped in boiling water than plunged in ice water...patted dry & tucked into zip locs & frozen! What a treat in the dead of winter!!!

White & Red Rose Potatoes are easily turned into the most delightful ice cold salads! Try this Potato Tomato Salad!!! First, boil one pound each of white & red potatoes until barely tender, drain & chill. Quarter the chilled potatoes & add to a large bowl. Toss in 2 medium tomatoes, chopped. Add 6 scallions, finely sliced. Add 1/2 cup pitted black olives, halved. Add 1/2 cup fresh flat leaf parsley that has been chopped, fine. Add 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed & drained. Add 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves. Dress with 1/3 cup olive oil, zest of one lemon, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice & sea salt & cracked black pepper, to taste. Gently mix all together & chill for at least one hour...Toss the salad one more time before serving! I adore this salad with grilled chicken breasts that have been glazed with our orange marmalade!

Zucchini...This easy recipe takes zucchini to the level of entree' in my opinion...Who needs meat when you have Zucchini Patties? In a bowl...mix in 2 cups grated zucchini, 2 eggs, beaten, 1/4 cup chopped French Scallions, 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, salt & pepper to taste. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium high heat in a skillet. Drop the zucchini mixture by tablespoons full onto the hot oil and cook on a few minutes on each side, until golden. Serve at once! Yes, double & triple this recipe! They're even good cold! Top with our Fire Roasted Black Bean & Corn Salsa & a dollop of sour cream...Heavenly!!!

Heirloom Baby Summer Crookneck Squash...These bright yellow little babies are absolutely divine. Chop some raw into a salad. Brush with olive oil & grill them & then drizzle with balsamic. Or better yet? Easy Summer Squash Soup...Saute' a pound of cubed yellow squash with about 10 thinly sliced French Scallions in a little olive oil, salt & pepper to taste. Add one can good quality chicken broth, a can of drained & rinsed white beans & chopped fresh oregano & parsley. Bring to a simmer. Top each bowl with a big dollop of our Italian Parsley Pesto & sour cream...throw on a few of our Rustic Farmhouse Parmesan Croutons! A lovely light summer supper in minutes!

Cucumbers...I had a side of this cucumber salad when we were in Nice, France in October. Served with a fillet of some mystery sea fish. Never could quite get the translation of what kind of fish exactly...very white, very thin fillets that had been dipped maybe just in flour & fried in olive oil. The accompanying fried potato slices & cucumber salad made for a truly gourmet meal...Do try this salad. In a dry skillet over medium heat lightly brown about 1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts, chopped...shake the pan as they brown. Cool. Peel & seed one cucumber...cut into thirds & then into very thin matchstick sort of pieces. Very thinly slice about 8 -10 French Scallions...Add to a bowl & dress with 4 tablespoons Champagne vinegar, 2-3 tablespoons sugar (you decide how much or how little), salt & pepper to taste. Top the salad with the roasted peanuts, right before serving!!! Fabulous!!!

The Boulangerie...Pies by Mary? OMG!!! Peach Raspberry pies this week, you better special order or you will miss these! Apple, Blueberry, Cherry, Cherry Streusel, Strawberry Rhubarb & Peach. Special order by early Thursday morning to avoid disappointment. Quiche of the Week...Broccoli Parmesan Herb! Sweet Breads...Butter Pecan Banana, Butter Pecan Apple, Carrot & Cinnamon Streusel!

French Baguettes, Pecan Rolls, Foccacia & fresh baked cookies!

The Soup Cart...GAZPACHO...Red Spanish or Spicy Peach...absolutely the best "heat buster" there is. You better get a few quarts of this cold soup & keep in the frig for those to hot to eat kind of days! Expect to find our famous Cucumber Bisque & our Tomato Bisque. Both elegant instant summer entree's decked out with some grilled shrimp or crab! Or serve as appetizers in martini or shooter glasses! Ice cold and refreshing!

Pesto's, Bruschetta, Tapenade...Summer staples you must have in your frig! This week find Italian Parsley Pesto, Smoked Red Pepper Almond Pesto & Cilantro Lime Pesto! Spread on toasted slices of baguette for instant appetizers, spread on sandwiches or wraps...or better yet? Make some pasta, drain & while still hot some of the pesto...any kind. Serve at once! Easy & hearty! Real Italian Bruschetta can be served with toasted or grilled baguette slices or use it to top a grilled piece of chicken, chop or fish. Nicoise' Olive Tapenade is my absolute favorite. Perfect topping for anything grilled. Spread on crackers or crostini or sandwiches!

Real English Curd...Just a reminder that the easiest & most gourmet of all desserts can be had with a jar of our Lemon or Lime Curd...Just fold one jar curd into 2 or 3 cups of whipped cream (coolwhip is fine) & spoon into a martini glass & shove in one of our Gourmet Chocolate Wafers...Or spoon the CurdWhip into prepared tart or pie shells...top with some of those fresh berries! Totally instant gourmet!

Instant Gourmet Rices & Couscous...If you haven't tried these instant sides yet...Now is the time. Cold salads are super easy with any of these...Just add chopped veggies & a simple little dressing! My favorite is a cold couscous salad with chopped tomatoes & cucumber dressed with fresh lemon juice & olive oil...add some cinnamon, hot pepper flakes & a little bit of brown sugar! YUM!

If you are looking for a really COOL gift? Either for a "hostess gift" or something for your neighbor or a friend that has everything? I will put together the cutest baskets of veggies & fruit from the farm for you! I hope to get pictures posted to my website later today! Other great things to see at www.Widgeonwood.com Do become a friend of the farm!!!

******

Bristleridge Gardens...Marcia has 50 different varieties of perennials & they are ON SALE this Saturday...3 for $10! That is amazing! Now is the perfect time to work on those naked little spots in your flower beds...Marcia will know exactly which ones you will need for your location!

Color Bowls this week...absolutely astounding healthy colorful bowls of perfectly gorgeous flowering plants...These make grand centerpieces for indoors or out! Anywhere you need a burst of color...they are perfection! And...only $14.50!

Marcia's herbs are $2.50...It isn't too late to get those herb gardens going! You buy one small package of fresh herbs at the grocery store & they are more than $2.50! Marcia's plants will be with you as long as you care for them...providing you with fresh herbs all Season long & beyond!

12-inch pots of the grandest most colorful plants you will find anywhere are $30...truly the most "bang for your buck" you'll find anywhere! Tons of decorative plants & hanging baskets...Which I am thinking would make great Father's Day Gifts...

The "fill a pot program" continues! Be sure & bring your pots & containers for Marcia to expertly plant & fill for you...She returns them the following Saturday!

*****

Memorial Weekend....

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 25 May 2011 17:43:00 +0000

Widgeonwood in the "Village"

Saturday, May 28th from 8 a.m. until One.

Find us "under the clock tower" at the Prairie Village Shops

71st & Mission in the "Heart" of Prairie Village

A rain or shine market!

*****

"Perform, then this one act of remembrance before this Day passes...REMEMBER there is an army of defense & advance that never dies & never surrenders, but is increasingly recruited from the eternal sources of American spirit & from the generations of American youth." ~W. J. Cameron

*****

I am having a hard time finding anything to say this week that is clever or humorous. It started early Sunday morning when the first news story I heard said that the Afghanistan "powers that be" are accusing our soldiers of killing hundreds of civilians & burying them in a mass grave outside of Fallujah.

If you aren't sure how many of our young men & women we've lost to Operation Enduring Freedom , go to: http://projects.washingtonpost.com/fallen/ There you will see the faces of our "heroes" & "sheroes"! Just try to wrap your mind around any of these brave people intentionally killing civilians. I cannot.

Do our soldiers there, right now this very minute know they are being accused of such an awful crime & still put up the fight to restore this ungrateful country to some kind of order & dignity?

You just have to wonder. We are to be completely out of Afghanistan by December. I say, not soon enough.

It is Memorial Day weekend. Let's not forget our American soldiers...both the living & the dead.

And, for a real picture of a Soldier & his family go to our website: http://www.widgeonwood.com/ ! David & I just rented our old farmhouse to this adorable young couple, last night. Tommy leaves for Saudi in September. He & Cierra were just married last Saturday. Cierra & Madison will be safe here at the farm. We will pray for National Guard 2nd Lieutenant Tommy Ervie every single day while he is gone.

And, then there is Joplin. I know that all of you, like myself have had to think what we would have done...what we would do. I look around at my home & possessions & my pets & try to imagine what it would be like to crawl out of the rubble of a deadly storm & have nothing left, but your life. They say God never gives us more than we can handle? I wonder if this might be the exception?

http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-local/ways-to-give The Salvation Army being my favorite way to help in times of disaster. Always the first on the scene with unconditional assistance...water, warm meals, clothing, bedding & a kind word. More unsung heroes & when you see them at work...They really do seem to be God's Army!! We must dig deep to help these poor people!

We've seen some tough times in the 20 years we've been in business every Saturday morning in Kansas City...I'd say this Saturday calls for one huge group hug...We need to remind ourselves that things will get better & we're proud to be Americans!

~Sally Calvin

*****

We are going to eat like there is no tomorrow this weekend (let's pray this isn't the case) and...You can't imagine the fabulous fresh food coming your way this Saturday! A food, fun & friends weekend! Don't hesitate to email me your special orders, which always avoid disappointment!!!

Tomatoes...What else can I say? They are perfectly divine!! Bright red, juicy, glorious real tomatoes! You'll need a 5 pound bag to get through the weekend. On Sale...$18!

Asparagus...If you're real good & things go as planned there will be one more chance at that amazing White Asparagus...A gourmet delight that is not to be missed! There of course will be green asparagus, too! The weather is going to straighten out & I'm thinking these tender spears of goodness must be bathed in just a bit of olive oil & grilled until tender.

Sugar Snap Peas...Whether you eat them raw with a dip or saute' them or make a soup...These peas are truly sweet as sugar. The variety is an old heirloom type...Sugar Ann! Add some of the sugar snaps to our chilled Saffron Jasmine Rice. A gourmet salad to go to that picnic is possible just pretty quick. Prepare the rice, chill...add chopped fresh "veggies"...peas, scallions, cucumber...dress with our Portofino Balsamic Dressing. YUM!

New Green Beans...grown under hoops & totally protected these beans are just waiting to be oven roasted! The first ones are always the best!!!

White & Red Rose Potatoes...Are simply best when scrubbed, bathed in olive oil & oven roasted with some fresh rosemary & thyme. Eat them right then & there...or chill for a potato salad or slice them thinly & fry em' up in some olive oil for dinner!

New Zucchini...should be grilled or oven roasted. A huge platter of grilled "veggies" is simple to make, can be done ahead & compliments steak, burgers, piggy, chicken or fish!

Strawberries...if only I could bottle their fabulous aroma. The berries are sweet & intensely flavored. I like to serve them on a plate with some creme fraiche' that you've sweetened with brown sugar to dip them in. A glass of Champagne? Voila! The classiest gourmet dessert in the "Village"...

Look for French Mesclun Salad, Arugula, Fresh Rhubarb, French Scallions, Cucumbers, Shallots, Garlic, Radishes...The Season is just beginning. Coming soon? Fava beans, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet onions & so much more!!!

the boulangerie...Pies this week? You can special order...Strawberry Rhubarb, Apple, Cherry, Cherry Streusel (yes, she said she would do streusel), Blueberry & Peach. A pie by Mary is the perfect take along to that picnic, brunch, lunch or dinner you've been invited to! Take it out of the box & tell them you made it yourself...I won't tell!

Quiche of the Week? Just had to do another round of that Oven Roasted Zucchini Parmesan Herb! Talk about the perfect appetizer cut into tiny little wedges served with a glass of wine!

French Baguettes, Pecan Rolls, Italian Foccacia...

And...back by popular demand. Those perfect little loaves of sweet bread...This week? Carrot or Pumpkin! If you haven't tried making French toast with this bread...this is the weekend! Drizzled with our Missouri Maple Pecan Syrup!

Pesto's, Tapenade & Real Italian Bruschetta...Italian Parsley, Smoked Red Pepper, Garlic Chive...And, hopefully will get some Arugula Almond made...Nicoise' Olive Tapenade...And, what would a Holiday weekend be without our famous Bruschetta & a baguette?

10% off all jam's, jelly's or glazes...again this week! Stocking up is a good thing!!

Lot's of great pickles...Fresh Pack Dills, Bread & Butters, Pickled Beets, Marinated Mushrooms & our "organic swizzle sticks"...Pickled Asparagus or Dilled Green Beans...My favorite? If you are grilling burgers this week? Top one side of the burger with a big fat slice of fresh tomato & the other side with a big slice of my Pickled Green Tomato Slices...Oh yeah!

Fresh Dill & Cilantro by special order! Must have dill for potato salad & deviled eggs.

There are more & gorgeous jars of the Italian Giardiniera...talk about a fabulous Hostess gift...Great little addition to that cocktail party!

*****

Bristleridge Gardens...I'm telling you, Marcia has simply out done herself this Season....Her planting material is better than anything I've seen anywhere...And, she just keeps bringing it! Eye Candy...plain & simple.

Look for Marcia's color bowls this Saturday...They are perfect to take to the cemetery.

Combo pots? Simply stunning & some for shade...some for sun! Great variety!

Herbs...Get those little herb gardens started this weekend. When I give you recipes...then you have all the fresh herbs you need without going to the grocery & buying those silly expensive little packages of herbs!

Marcia is still doing the "fill a pot program"...I couldn't believe the ones she did last week...Gorgeous! Bring your pots & containers for custom filling & return the following Saturday!

******

Here's the story... Story is open! I am so excited about this fabulous gourmet restaurant! And? They are going to be serving brunch...Right next to us! Every Saturday & Sunday, starting at 10 a.m.! How cool is that? Watch all the comings & goings at market while having a fabulous gourmet brunch & don't you know a glass of Champagne! Brunch is from 10 until 2! Call: 913-236-9955 or go to: www.storykc.com for hours, menu & more info! Tell them Sally from the market sent you!

*****

Many thanks for your continued support of all we do! We are a true "word of mouth" business & we absolutely appreciate your telling your friends about us!

*****

Widgeonwood stays in touch in Kansas City in the following ways! The Independent, of course! Go to www.kcindependent.com ! The Tastebud Magazine! Go to www.tastebudmagazine.com! Or the Prairie Village Post, www.pvpost.com !

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 11 May 2011 17:31:00 +0000

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

50% OFF ALL HANDCRAFTED BOXED CHOCOLATES!

...truffles, bonbons, English toffee...These chocolates will keep very well for at least 6 months in a cool dark place...Do Not Miss this GREAT COUPON DEAL!

Widgeonwood* Jefferson City, Missouri

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:07:00 +0000

Happy Passover, Happy Easter…Happy SPRING!

The Season Begins…

This Saturday, April 23^rd…8 o'clock in the morning!

The Prairie Village Shops @ 71^st & Mission…

Under the “clock tower” in the “heart” of the Village!

*****

Bristle Ridge Gardens…

Marcia Bailey kicks off the Season the next 2 weeks with her absolutely astounding array of spring COLOR!

Yes, Marcia will be bringing special Easter baskets of flowers, hanging baskets, herbs, perennials, bedding plants & so much more this Saturday…just in time to “color up” those sad looking flower beds, entry ways, pool sides…Not to mention centerpieces for those Easter dinner tables!

You won’t believe the collection of grandeur that our Miss Marcia has been working on…just for YOU! Our Prairie Village friends…

Don’t forget Marcia’s “fill a pot program”…Bring your pots & containers this Saturday & Marcia will fill them with exactly the color/location need…Already good to go! This is a service like no other…You will be amazed at what she can do...when she returns your containers the next Saturday! Call Marcia @ 816-619-4573 or email her @: drexeltch@hotmail.com !

*****

Widgeonwood…

As you know the Season’s Grand Opening is May 7^th…the Saturday before Mother’s Day! We have a Season planned for all of you like no other! The “r&r” we took to France & Italy in October served to rekindle our creative juices & we’ve brought back the most amazing seeds, ideas & recipes!! Our goal is to jump start your own CREATIVITY & get you planning meals & party fare around FOOD FRESH FROM THE FARM!

For this Saturday? Marcia is going to have some very special EASTER treats from the farm!

By special order…TOMATOES! Our glorious, big fat, bright red TOMATOES! Can you see those huge platters of sliced tomatoes for Easter Dinner? FABULOUS…FIVE POUND BAGS FULL for $18.99…Be sure & order right away...we don’t have many yet & you don’t want to be disappointed!!!

We’re doing a special run of CHOCOLATES just for EASTER! French Chocolate Truffles, English Toffee & French Coconut Bonbons! The ultimate EASTER gift! Special orders suggested! Add a box to that special Easter basket!

We’ll have out a few jars of our Gazpacho’s, because the perfect little Easter dinner appetizer/cocktail would be a little frozen glass of either of our gazpacho’s kicked up a notch with just a little itty bit of really good vodka!!

If you are doing a ham or turkey for the big Easter dinner be sure & pick up a jar of either our Champagne Cherry or Champagne Cranberry Jelly to use as a last minute finishing glaze!

Just let me know if there is anything else we can have ready for you to pick up on Saturday…Or if I can do a custom Easter basket for you.

We’ll see you May 7^th…Be sure & go to www.Widgeonwood.com to see pictures, get recipes or just generally “blog” about the upcoming Season…Become a “farm follower”…It’s so easy to do & you will get an email whenever I do an update! We will be doing Facebook & Twitter updates daily & you can just go to the website & link up to what's happening at the FARM! Don’t hesitate to call the farm w/orders or questions! 573-584-3385!

Miss all of you & can’t wait for the 7^th…Know that we are working hard here at the farm in preparation for the BEST SEASON YET!

Love & peace to all!

~Sally

Spring & Easter plants...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:45:00 +0000

Mark your calendars!!! Bristleridge Gardens will be front & center in the "Heart" of Prairie Village on April 23rd! The Saturday before Easter...Can you imagine? Glorious plants, flowers & herbs to grace those sad looking flower beds, your tables, entry's and pool sides! Spring is here!!!

And, if I get a good report from the Easter Rabbit? Marcia just might have WIDGEONWOOD TOMATOES! And? In keeping with tradition? What would those Easter baskets be without French Chocolate Truffles, Real English Toffee & French Coconut Bonbons!

It isn't too early to put your orders in for Custom Easter & Mother's Day Gift Baskets! Just let me know!!!

The BIG SPRING GRAND OPENING? Saturday, May 7th! See you then!!!

~Sally

Won't be long!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 16:41:00 +0000

Imported Fresh From the FARM...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 23:01:00 +0000

The SEASON BEGINS....SOON! We are out there planting & cooking up new & wonderful fabulous farm fresh food just for YOU! Every single day something wonderful pops out of the ground...! Mother Nature is going to cooperate the next few days & we have a huge amount of planting to work on! More peas, radishes the colors of the rainbow, more lettuce & swiss chard...beets, green beans and so much more... Please don't forget to mark you calendars...

Marcia Bailey of Bristleridge Gardens comes in April 23...just in time for amazing EASTER COLOR! You won't believe the fabulous selection of plants, baskets, flowers, herbs and more...she's got planned to brighten up ever corner of the "VILLAGE"

We'll see you May 7th for the GRAND OPENING!

Just another update! Will try to keep you "farm informed" and let you know what's going on! Oh my...fresh rhubarb and asparagus!!! Can't wait!!

THE SEASON BEGINS...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:17:00 +0000

The Season Begins...Widgeonwood in the Village! Saturday, May 7th at 8 a.m. sharp! The Prairie Village Shops Mission Road & 69 Terrace Under the "Clock Tower"...in the "Heart of Prairie Village

Our Road is SNOWED IN!!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 02:53:00 +0000

Widgeonwoods' "Love For Sale" Valentine Event Postponed Due to Weather
We are rescheduling the event for Saturday, February 12th from ten until four!
The Prairie Village Shops...Inside the old Macy's Home Store at 3935 W. 69th Terrace
In the "Heart" of Prairie Village!
Please join us then...Sorry! We're snowed in at the farm!! See you soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 21:53:00 +0000

"Love For Sale"
Widgeonwoods' Valentine Event!!
Saturday, February 5th from ten until four.
The Prairie Village Shops...inside the old Macy's Home Store at 3935 W. 69th Terrace...
In the "Heart" of Prairie Village!
*****
"When the only sound on the empty street is the heavy tread of the heavy feet that belong to a lonesome cop, I open shop.
The moon so long has been gazing down on the wayward ways of this wayward town her smile becomes a smirk, I go to work. Love for saleAppetizing young love for sale...love that's fresh and still unspoiled... love that's only slightly soiled...love for sale.Who will buy, who would like to sample my supply? Who's prepared to pay the price for a trip to paradise? Love for sale.Let the poets pipe of love, in their childish ways. I know every type of love, better far than they. If you want the thrill of love,
I've been through the mill of love. Old love, new love, every love but true love.Love for sale...appetizing young love for sale. If you want to buy my wares, follow me and climb the stairs...Love For Sale!"
~Cole Porter
*****
Don't you just love the lyrics to the good old tunes? Cole Porter wrote the best! I should imagine "Love For Sale", just pretty risque for the times?? And, "Love For Sale"...is what we have planned for all of you on Saturday...in the form of fabulous sweet and savory treats...not just for all your Valentines...but Super Bowl Sunday guests, too! Hopefully....oh, so hopefully!!

I haven't seen winter weather this bad since I was a kid in Chicago in 1967!! We first had a small ice storm last night & then? It's been snowing in complete "White Out" style since about 5 this morning. We are experiencing wind gusts at least 50 mph! The temperature is hanging at about 25 degrees, which is just the perfect temperature to keep the snow coming!! The only thing I haven't heard yet...And, let us pray none of us do...Snow Thunder! You do not want to experience snow thunder! It is a bad, bad thing!

We are pretty concerned about a power outage...And, have taken as many measures to prepare for such an event. We experienced about 6 days without power a few years back & were NOT prepared! We've filled all the bathtubs with water...which is a must have for flushing! You see? On the farm...no power=no water=no flushing! Not to mention we filled bottles & pitchers & anything else we could find with drinking water...Then we had to make sure we had enough wood for the wood stove downstairs & that the gas fireplace was hooked up & ready to roll! So? Do you know where your flashlights, candles & batteries are? Just as I thought! You are as subject to power outages in the city as we are here at the farm! Mother Nature isn't done with us when the snow is over...we heard sub-zero night temperatures were on the way! Make good use of the daylight...just in case? GLOBAL WARMING??? Okey dokey...

As I type this I am looking outside and trying not to be scared. Seriously? What I am seeing is totally frightening. The wind gusts are swirling the snow in all directions...I just heard the National Guard is prepared to go to door if need be? Will they bring extra bottles of wine? Or maybe a nice bottle of single malt scotch? One could run out of refreshments, right? I wonder how they'd feel about bringing some heavy duty equipment and digging us out?? I can hear me now..."911 National Guard, if you would please arrange to have our road up here completely cleaned off no later than 10 am on Friday, I would be most appreciative...Coco Loco & French Chocolate Truffles for all those that help??" Boy, do I have "cabin fever"!

Enough with the "bad weather" talk! We need to just go make a cup of tea, find a good book & quit looking out the window! But, not before you read the rest of my email!! I must add...the snow drifts are approaching 5 feet right here in front of our garage...YIKES!!!

Since I probably have a captive audience...I will go forward & talk about the Valentine Event! Hopefully & with a lot of hard work & luck & prayers? We will be able to shovel out and make it to the City on Friday, to be all set up for the big DAY on Saturday! If not? We already have made arrangements to hold "Love For Sale" the following Saturday on the 12th! Same time/Same place! Keeping in mind...that after doing a "road show" for 20 years...I am absolutely the eternal optimist! But? Just in case there will be plenty of time to shower your Valentines with all the wonderful things Cupid & his staff had been helping us with here at the farm...I am telling you...those naked little cherubs have helped prepare some amazing treats! Watch for email updates & be sure to check www.Widgeonwood.com for updates & photo's!!!

We truly need a good dose of seeing each & everyone of you...It gets pretty lonely here at the farm & your sweet smiling faces are just what the doctor ordered! In fact, I think with all the bad weather in the city, all of you have probably been sticking close to home, too! Maybe we should just all get together on Saturday morning for one giant "group hug"? Well, maybe not the "group hug" thing...Could be politically incorrect...probably "over the top" civility, right?

Be SAFE...Be WARM...Out of sight is never out of mind! Hope to see you soon! Boy, do I hope to see you soon!!!

LOVE to all...

~Sally Calvin
*****
When you think of Valentines day you most certainly think of chocolates!!! We have worked on bringing you French Chocolate Truffles, English Chocolate Toffee & French Coconut Bonbons all dressed up for the "day of love"!! Truffle & Bonbons Pour Deux in darling little boxes will make perfect little gifts for teachers, bridge club, hair dressers, neighbors? Be thinking about hiding some of these glorious handcrafted chocolates for days just like today?

And, for the one or ones you love? I am thinking you need to whip up one of our super easy but totally gourmet cake mixes! Lemon Poppy Seed, Quatra Chocolat Gateau or Italiano Crema Torta! Sweets for your sweet?
I'd make sure you had a few of those on those pantry shelves for unexpected guests or an amazing hostess gift!

I had so many requests for "Gourmet Granola" & with Cupids help finally got a batch made! If you haven't had a Widgeonwood granola yogurt parfait...you simply must try a box!! OMG...the wind is howling & I am not hearing this?? Or? For a special Valentine breakfast treat? Make a granola "CurdWhip" parfait! Just take either our Real English Lemon Curd or Raspberry Curd & mix one jar with 2 cups whipped cream. Layer with granola...a lovely treat!

Moving right along! The other night I made a pear/arugula/parmesan salad using our canned Duchess Pear Halves...It was AMAZING!! Simply drain the pear halves, cut into chunks & place on top of the greens, crumble on the parm... I drizzled all with a little bit of honey & splashed on some of our Portofino Balsamic Vinaigrette...finished with cracked black pepper and sprinkle of my Vanilla Scented Fleur de Sel (oh wait until you try this...another little trick I picked up on this last trip to France!) BTW? Make a little "peartini" with the pear juice? YUM!

And? If you have a jar of Summer Lady Peach Halves...you have an instant dessert. Drain & place the pear halves pit side up in a baking dish...Smash about 10 vanilla wafers in a small bowl...2 tbs. dark brown sugar, 1 tsp. cardamom & a tbs. of melted butter, mix well with a fork. Spoon a little of the crumb mixture into each peach half & broil for a minute or two under the broiler until a little browned & bubbly! Serve with cognac flavored whipped cream! This is farmhouse instant gourmet at it's finest! "Peachtini's" are possible with that juice!!!

"SINtini's"...I created the most intensely flavored cinnamon syrup & turned it into an exciting Valentine "drinky pooh"...a most potent Love Potion for Two..Oh yeah!

Thinking of something easy to throw together for Super Bowl Sunday? "Sloppy Sally's" can me thrown together in minutes...take one jar of our Merlot Meat Paint and to it add...one cup dark brown sugar, one teaspoon liquid smoke, a few tablespoons of our English Pub Horseradish Mustard & a kick it up a notch with hot sauce...pour into a chafing dish & start warming. In a skillet saute' about 2 pounds of ground beef with some chopped onion, bell pepper & celery until the veggies are tender & the burger browned. Add to the sauce. Serve on buns or top steamed hot dogs! This same sauce can be used with wings, cocktail weenies or frozen meatballs! Delish!

Pick a Peck of Pickles...we still have a selection of Sweet Pickled Baby Beets, Bread & Butters, Fresh Packed Dills, Pickled Asparagus & Green Beans, Marinated Mushrooms & Pickled Green Tomatoes! A pickle platter is perfect to go with the "Sloppy Sally's" & all you do is open a few jars!

Looking for "summer in a jar"...Try our Portobello Fire Roasted Tomato Sauce...love it with any kind of pasta! A must have on those winter pantry shelves!!!

And, what would the Super Bowl be without SALSA! Hot Cha Cha Cherry, Fire Roasted Hot Pepper, Fire Roasted Sweet Corn & Black Bean & a few jars of that new Tomatillo Salsa...Make farmhouse quesidilla's...simply spread tortilla's with refried beans, top with any of our salsa's & top with cheese & another tortilla...I fry these in a little olive oil on both sides until the cheese is melted...cut them in wedges & serve with more SALSA! What a fiesta!!!

CHEESEWHEEL...Do special order to avoid disappointment. Keep in mind "cheesewheel" will keep 3 weeks, at least. I will have small heart shaped "wheels" for $6.99 & larger heart shaped wheels that will serve 10-15 for $25! Again...special orders suggested!!!

The Soup Cart...Gazpacho! Spicy Peach or Red Spanish! Super Bowl party drinks...Oh yeah! Throw another log on the fire & fire up that gazpacho with some Tequila or Vodka or a Vodka/Gin Combo...Serve in shooter glasses rimmed with some grilled shrimp or martini glasses rimmed with salt! New Orleans Gumbo? Super simple super bowl fare? Or, a fast dinner sitting on your pantry shelf when you're too tired to cook? Add some shrimp, crab or spicy sausage to a jar of this amazing gumbo...Warm & serve over rice! Fabulous! Tomato Bisque...special order to avoid disappointment!

I will have "Italian Parsley Pesto" & "Smoked Almond Red Pepper Pesto"...easy one dish meals added to prepared pasta or instant appetizer? Pesto freezes...stock up! Special orders appreciated!!!

"Love For Sale"...We'll do everything in our power to DELIVER! I will keep you posted...Look for us on Facebook or www.Widgeonwood.com! I'll send updates...Email me & let me know how all of you are doing! This to shall pass! See you soon!
*****
Greenleaf Gardens...Be sure & stop by & talk to our resident landscape specialists. These hardworking girls are ready to talk to you about all your dreams, hopes & needs for that perfect yard & garden come spring. This is the time of year to get the wheels in motion to finally get that perfect landscape to match your perfect home. Winter discounts on many types of projects! Be sure & register to win a free gorgeous plant. The girls will have orchids & gift certificates for sale that will make great Valentines for the ones you love!!
*****
Scentsy...Nikki is inviting you to get excited about one of the hottest new products out there … a safe, wickless alternative to scented candles. She will be bringing a selection of warmers and scented wax for you to enjoy. With Scentsy you can make a statement in any room and enjoy a total fragrance experience. www.scentsy.com/dleone
*****
Claudia of ClaudiaBägDesigns....is coming back to show off her latest designs of handcrafted bags, purses & accessories. She will be bringing her trendy BackPacks and Metro Messenger bags along with other great gift ideas. Claudia has been with us for a long time & I personally am amazed at what she brings to all of our events! www.claudiabags.etsy.com
*****
Dee Dee Walters...Makes one of a kind mosaic art work & home accessories handcrafted from vintage china, old jewelry, beads, antique remnants & recycled & found objects. Some of her creations? Bird houses, mirrors, picture frames, light switch plates, flower pots & many more unique & one of a kind items. Dee Dee also does custom work! Don't miss this really "cool" and one of a kind artwork!
*****
Linda Maloney...Fun, Funky & Chunky Jewelry. Linda brings together whimsy & nostalgia to her designs by using recycled & refound objects d' art! Old beads, antique Mah Jong tiles, vintage gumball machine charms, bakelite poker chips, Monopoly & other old game pieces come together repurposed in the most incredible ways! You're going to love Linda's style!
*****
Studio Five Artists...This group of talented folks are making their debut with us this Saturday! They will be showing a selection of hand made soaps...Totally interesting tramp art pieces...Super interesting enameled & beaded & wired crosses & hand painted decorative boxes. Look for felted scarves in gorgeous spring colors, hats, purses & wearable art. Your Valentine is going to love Studio Five!!!
*****Linda Flake...Kimono Art Studio is a line of fresh, modern & sophisticated artful ornaments for body and abode designed from recycled vintage Japanese kimono and obi. Linda creates pillows, runners, lamps, scarves, purses and aromatherapy eye pillows from these luscious silk textiles! She has some really great Valentine ideas!
*****
The Independent...always keeping us "socially informed" in Kansas City! Go to www.kcindependent.com for more information!
*****
The local "foodie" magazine to read? Of course...Tastebud! Free at market every week! www.tastebudmagazine.com
*****
We need to start blogging... www.Widgeonwood.com Send your comments, recipes, favorite wines, upcoming events...Use the space...it will be fun! Also follow Widgeonwood on Facebook & Twitter!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 20:06:00 +0000

"Love For Sale"...

Widgeonwoods' Valentine Event

Saturday, February 5th from ten until four

The Prairie Village Shops

Inside the old Macy's Store...3935 W. 69th Terrace

In the "Heart" of Prairie Village!

More information posted soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 23:04:00 +0000

Widgeonwoods' Annual Holiday ReTour, ReSale & ReShop Event!
Saturday, December 18th from 10 until 5...
The Prairie Village Shops @ 71st & Mission in the old Natural Wear store, next to Curious Sofa!
In the Heart of Prairie Village!
*****
"I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month." ~ Harlan Miller
*****
One of my favorite quotations, for sure! And, I hope you know that if it were possible I would send each and everyone of you a jar full of Christmas spirit and Goodwill toward men...every single week!

Sadly, Sally has fallen short of completing her shopping list this season...I am down to panic mode...which means generally shopping on line and paying HUGE amounts of $$'s for overnight shipping?

I've looked at so many websites and still haven't found one gift...So? When one is having shopping difficulties & you need something in addition to what you will find at my sale on Saturday??? CRAIGSLIST! Of course, there is always: www.craigslist.com!

First of all...always, I mean always check the "free stuff" postings! OMG...There is some great stuff just waiting to be picked up! Let me see?

FREE ROOSTERS (MILLERSBURG/fulton)
I have 4 roosters that i HAVE to get rid of. My kids bought them this past march they were babies and we ended up with more roosters than hens. well as you know its not working out. I have 2 big red ones a gray one and a multi color one. they are big enough to eat, but I cant bring myself to kill them. So if you want them come get them. Thanks 4 looking.

Free roosters? Oh this is fabulous...Who on my list or yours for that matter could use a good rooster? No one will ever know that the rooster was free, right? And, a selection of colors...I am going to take the multi-color one, for sure! So, that leaves three? Be the first in Prairie Village to have an actual live alarm clock...Cockadoodledo! Talk about a "green gift"! And, the added bonus? When you tire of your bird...you eat em'! So, that takes care of my Dad! Rumpuhpumpum!

FREE Berkline "Big Dog" recliner (Jefferson City)With hesitation I am giving away my baby. My Big Dog recliner made by Berkline. It ias about 10 years old, and is made for a large body. The foot rest doesn't work right, but a call to Berkline can get it replaced or someone with a welder. I was wanting to keep it, but my wife has other ideas for the space, and it takes up a lot of space. I might shed a tear.

I know, I know...It isn't nice to take advantage...but, a "Big Dog" recliner for FREE! I am telling you now, I have a phone call in to my "welder" and I visualize this wonderful piece sitting front & center in my brothers' living room come Christmas eve...right next to his herculon plaid couch...Oh Joy to the World!

CHRISTMAS RABBITS (Linn)We will have the following rabbits at our Dec. 18 sale: 7 Californian 1 New Zealand 3 Florida 1 Standard 6 mini rex 5 Polish & 3 dwarf hotot We will also have lots of brand new Carhartt clothes and gloves as well as plenty of new equine related items. Plan on coming out and getting some last minute gifts at great prices. visit us online at www.lincolncountylivestock.com for more details

Finally, the answer to my prayers...What to get my grandsons...Warren, Benjamin and August. Grandma just couldn't bring herself to buy more electronics! The night vision binoculars they would prefer? I just know could lead to trouble in their neighborhood. BB Guns? OMG...not good! I broke down & bought them Rock Band the Beatles addition, last year with extra guitars & probably a drum...they never heard of the Beatles? So? Grandma Sally is thinking RABBITS! They can raise rabbits for FFA projects...No problem, rabbits are small. I will have pens built for them...And, they will be a great learning experience. Let me see? If we start out with say 4 rabbits by spring we will have how many? FALALALALA!
BOURBON TURKIES...(CLIFTON CITY)
A pair of Bourbon turkies ready to eat. $35 each. You kill.
I just called and secured both of these "turkies"...One for me and one for my son-in-law, "Meat Head"!! I assume bourbon turkey's are like milk fed veal or Kolbe beef that are force fed a diet of beer or a big fat goose that is overfed for it's liver, right? Can you envision what a turkey might taste like that has been given a daily diet of Jack Daniels or Jim Beam...oh yeah? I am going to have to pay someone to pick them up & prepare them for eating before they reach Widgeonwood...you remember how afraid Sally is of birds? Hark the Herald Angels, we can hear them singing!!
$100 Tattoo - $85 (Jefferson City)My loss is your gain. I cannot decide on what tattoo to get right now so I am selling my gift cert of $100 to Capital Tattoo Co. & Piercings. I am asking $85 but would consider other reasonable offers. Call or Text 573-694-0872. If no answer please leave a message with your phone number and I will call you back.

I know my daughter Tabitha is reading this & wondering what she might get for Christmas...Well, what better than a tattoo...One that say's MOTHER...with big winding roses around it! And, only $85! Oh, this is going to be one of the best Christmas's yet! The stars are truly brightly shining!!

In just a short time I have made a huge dent in my shopping list...I am going to leave the perfectly good white toliet just sitting curbside waiting for you to pick up for FREE, for that someone special...The swimming pool for $125 that was only used one summer? Above ground pools "in the village" could become a trend like those giant "blow up" Christmas decorations! It's a jolly, jolly Christmas...hohoho!

authentic mexican maraccas - $7 (Columbia)these are from mexico, got them on a honeymoon and now im divorced, dont really want them around, but they are nice and hardly handled at all. call n we can exchange. 573-356-0342

I'm sorry, I just can't help myself...I have been visited with such Christmas spirit!Barely handled maracas? OMG...this is just too good to be true! Go to craigslist now or you will miss the deal on the bullet proof vest and the never used martini glasses with the penguin shaker (can you imagine?) or the emu eggs...

HAPPY HOLIDAY'S EVERYONE! Come see us Saturday if you can and if not? Know you are in our HEARTS all winter long and cannot wait to see you in SPRING!

May Love & Peace Prevail!

~Sally Calvin
*****
We think the "reTour" a good idea to assist you with your last minute shopping! And, you've probably already eaten most of your gifts in a weak moment! No questions asked? Just come on in on Saturday and see what you can do to finally once & for all finish with the shopping so you can put your feet up & truly enjoy the HOLIDAY! We have some surprises, for you, too! Some "friends of the farm" you've never seen & some you will want to "reVisit"...and????

Tomatoes...a few 5 pound bags will be available. I can see a big platter of sliced tomatoes with some amazing mozzarella for that Holiday "din-din"! Our Real Italian Bruschetta is made with those very same tomatoes. There will be a few jars available. Last chance until spring. Special orders suggested.
Speaking of tomato based "goodies"? Don't forget the GAZPACHO'S...an amazing gift...summer in a jar just sitting on your pantry shelf for that depressing day in February when you wished "market" would start? Red Spanish or Spicy Peach! NEW ORLEANS GUMBO starts out being so good because we use such glorious tomatoes...This instant meal in a jar is a Holiday must have for that one night you are simply too tired to cook. The new Portobello Tomato Sauce simply heated through, a little vodka added, a little cream...throw in some cooked pasta! Dinner is served! Add some frozen meatballs to the sauce/warm & put it in a chafing dish...appetizer ready to go!

Hand Crafted Candy...Forced into "reProduction" by "sell out" at the first Holiday Market...I will have more French Chocolate Truffles, English Toffee, French Coconut Bonbons, Organic Peanut Brittle & there will be a few boxes of French Roasted Peanuts! Special orders suggested as quantities are limited!

Pesto's & Tapenade...Look for Real Italian Parsley Pesto, Smoked Almond Red Pepper Pesto & Nicoise' Olive Tapenade...I cannot imagine not having jars of these "appetizers waiting to happen" in my frig this time of year! Very limited...let me know?

from the boulangerie...Last chance for Pies by Mary! Special order only! Apple, Peach, Blueberry, Strawberry Rhubarb, Apple Berry, Sweet Cherry & Black Cherry! She has agreed to do French Baguettes & Pecan Rolls! All of these freeze very well...keep in mind! Please order ASAP or she will be very, very mean to me!

Did I forget that I will have a few jars of Cucumber or Tomato Bisque? Please special order! The bisque is such an elegant addition to the Holiday's...The ice cold cucumber bisque looks so gorgeous served up in martini glasses with some crab or shrimp for garnish! The Tomato Bisque is good served the same way, too! Or warmed...the perfect luncheon entree' with some homemade croutons & a lovely salad! Special order si' vous plait!

NEW for the Holiday??? Sweet Tomatillo Onion Salsa....You will absolutely love these divine sauce! You know the little pork loin trick? Get one small pork loin & place in your crockpot! Then pour in a jar of one of our fabulous salsa's! Go away for a few hours & return to "piggy heaven"...Simply shred the loin & serve on buns topping it with coleslaw! YUM!
Mustards? Besides the standby must haves Aneth Moutarde' (dill) & English Pub Horseradish...I will have a medley of fruit mustards...Wild Blackberry, Spicy Cranberry & Red Raspberry! Let me box up all 3 for the perfect gift for the gourmet cook? These mustards take salad dressings, egg salad, deviled eggs & sandwiches to a whole new level!
Do you love cranberries as much as I do? You must have a jar each of my Cranberry Splurge...a splurge being a cross between a salsa & a sauce! The splurge has sweet onions & Holiday spices! Just pour over cream cheese for an appetizer, spread on a sandwich, top grilled fish or chicken or piggy! And, then there is Port Wine Cranberry Sauce...a Holiday must have! I must have my Port Wine cranberry sauce with my Christmas turkey...guaranteed to become a tradition at your house, too!

Dessert Sauces? The absolute most divine chocolate in a bottle? The French Bittersweet Chocolate Sauce! Pricey but guaranteed to make the chocolate connoisseur weep with joy...a few more jars for the "reTour"!! Then there is French Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Sauce...French Chocolate Grand Marnier Fondue Sauce....and? Do not miss the jars full of creme' caramel with toasted pecans aptly named...Better Than Sex Sauce! A gourmet delight drizzled warm over ice cream & topped with crunchy sea salt! I still have a few of those pretty little glass ornaments full of seas salt ( and cracked black pepper)...that would make wonderful little stocking stuffers!

Pickles?....Still a few jars of Pickled Baby Beets, Bread & Butters, Fresh Pack Dills, Marinated Mushrooms & of course? Our famous "organic swizzle sticks"...Pickled Asparagus Spears & Dilled Green Beans! They all go fast...special orders suggested! Keep in mind that this farm fresh pickled produce make instant anti-pasti platters for perfect little appetizers!

Jam's, Jellies & Glazes...Too name just a few? My pick of the season of course? Seedless Black Raspberry Jam...totally intense raspberry flavor!
Then my absolute favorite? Wild Plum Jelly! And, then there is the Champagne Cherry, Champagne Cranberry & Champagne Mint...Too hard to decide...Although there is the Raspberry Inferno? I must share with you that I recently made a fresh ham & toward the end of baking it? I melted some Champagne Cranberry Jelly and brushed/basted that ham for the last half hour of baking with that jelly...the results were breathtaking! I then cut up the ham in thin little slices & served it on tiny little homemade buns which I spread one side with more of the jelly & one side with my Spicy Cranberry Mustard...I had my guests harking angels & jingling their bells!

I promised & they are in the oven as I write...more Devils' Nuts! Don't forget to get a bag on Saturday! Grand with cocktails but even better gently frisked about in a saute' pan until warmed & thrown on a pear/gorgonzola salad!

"CHEESEWHEEL"...Right now I have a few 7-inch still available, one 10-inch & some wedges, either decorated or not! Email me right away if I can reserve for you!

Don't hesitate to call me: 573-584-3385 or email if you have questions, orders or special requests!

See you Saturday!

*****
Spend time on Saturday with our "special friends of the farm"...

"Junque Julery" by Holly Orme...you will remember Holly's fabulous pieces from last year! This talented artist "reMakes" vintage jewelry into the most amazing necklace, bracelets, belts, earrings and more! Talk about one of a kind & affordable! Can't wait to see what she's done for our special event!

"Mandy's Way"...will be with us again on Saturday! I saw you trying on that fabulous scarf & you just couldn't decide. Last chance! You know you're going to need two! One for you & one for Mom! Maggie has some really cool stuff, my friends! Take a look at what's she bringing just for us...here things are so well priced & creative beyond belief!

Jenny Beck with Premier Designs...Some of the most amazing jewelry pieces you will find anywhere for great prices! Let Jenny tell you how you can start your "premier collection" for free! Book a "premier party" after the first of the year with Jenny & free jewelry can be yours! Talk about fun for the "dead of winter"!

Sea Dream Jewelry...Linda Laughlin has been with Widgeonwood for a long, long time! Linda never fails to amaze Sally with her simply gorgeous jewelry designs! She will have you drooling! And, may I suggest to you "husbands" who haven't found a gift yet? YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE (david)...Get Shopping Big Boys or you are in TROUBLE...HOHOHO! Linda will be there for you Saturday!

TresMelindas Rustic Pendants...a new addition to the "friends of the farm"! If unique & one of a kind is your thing? You won't want to miss Melinda's booth on Saturday! This girl is really talented! Melinda comes highly recommended! Stop & Look...I think you will be amazed!
*****
Go to www.kcindependent.com for all the current info about what's happening in the Kansas City area this Holiday Season! If you've been naughty & don't have a subscription to this delightful magazine...better hurry or Santa won't come see you! PS...If you see Laurie Ingram...give her a great big Holiday Hug...She'll tell you the BEST news her family has heard in a very long time! A true Christmas Miracle! Yay!
*****
My favorite "foodie" publication? Tastebud magazine & it's FREE! Go to www.tastebudmagazine.com for more information!

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 17:21:00 +0000

Widgeonwoods' 20th Anniversary Holiday Market
Saturday, December 4th from 10 a.m until 4 p.m....
The Prairie Village Shops @ 71st & Mission in Prairie Village
(right next door to Curious Sofa)

This Season's Holiday Market marks Widgeonwoods' long 20 year journey from the farm to the city...from field to fork! Starting at Barstow School Organic Farmers' Market to Delaware Interiors & the Marche du Jour & now? The Prairie Village Shops...where each and every Saturday during "Season" we all gather under the "clock tower" to celebrate great food & more importantly great friends!

Expect to find the "best" the farmhouse has to offer and more for this special Holiday Market! All your traditional favorites and some fabulous surprises! All hand crafted with each & every one of you in mind! The most glorious gifts of food you will find anywhere in the city!

We have gathered a small group of artisans to join us this Season...Speciality, one of a kind gift items you won't find anywhere else...jewelry, specialty services, beads, baubles, bangles, bags & so much more! Quite a Holiday shopping extravaganza!

Mark your calendars...and be sure & join us on December 4th!
See you soon!

Don't hesitate to email the farm with special orders or questions! Widgeonwood2@aol.com

Happy Holidays!

Sally and David Calvin

Losing a dear friend....

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 19:19:00 +0000

Widgeonwood in the "Village"...
Saturday, August 28th at 8 a.m.
The Prairie Village Shops...under the "clock tower" if the construction is complete...in front of the old Natural Wear Store, if not!
71st & Mission...In the "heart" of Prairie Village...
A Rain or Shine or Under Construction or High Water Market...we'll be there!
*****
"Be it human or animal, touch is a life-giving thing. Has anyone ever had a stroke or a heart attack while cozied up with a pet? I doubt it." ~Robert Brault
*****
Many of you know about my fondness for CATS! I simply adore the creatures! If given half a chance I still would run off with the Circus to be a lion or tiger tamer. Siegfried & Roy, the famous illusionists that use fabulous white tigers in their act are AMAZING. I know Roy almost was killed by one of his tigers...but, I firmly believe the tiger thought he was protecting Roy & never meant to hurt him.

If you are a cat lover...you understand what I am saying. Cats bond with their owners like no other pet. I know you will think me totally bonkers...but, it is true that you can learn to talk to your cats. I talk to mine. Seigfried & Roy talk to their cats... Of course, it's takes years of cat ownership to learn to make their sounds & to purr correctly & know what they are saying. But, it's true. I talk to my cats & they respond. Those of you not so fond of cats? You won't understand...Those of you who love cats...will understand what I am saying "purrfectly"!

Many of you that know me...know my story about Ole' my beloved cat that we had for over 13 years. I have to retell the story, this week...just one final time. It's an amazing "pet story" even if you don't like cats or even have pets, I know you will appreciate this one. I apologize if you've heard it before.

Ole' was what I call a "foundling"...He was brought in to the Jefferson City dog pound with an injury to his little back when he was a very young kitten. He was a "polydachtyl"...a Hemingway cat! One with at least 6 toes on each front foot. Ole' was a tabby with four white feet & 7 toes on each of his front paws and his fur was softer than a rabbit.

Ole's was a special cat...Like none other I had ever known. He was a constant companion, a true & loyal friend. He slept with me every single night, sharing my pillow while I held one of his paws! We comforted each other.

Ole' always had some health issues...Plagued with allergies...food, fleas, medications...You name it the poor cat had a rough go of it at times...When Ole' was maybe 5 years old...He developed a horrible sore on one of his back legs that wouldn't heal. I know it hurt him terribly. We started a round of taking him to every veterinarian in the area. Trying to figure out the cure for my precious cat. To no avail.

I finally took him to a Vet we had known for a long time that frequently helped us with the sheep. Doc had a small office on the "not so good side" of Jefferson City. A small place that didn't always smell so good because taking care of the patients was always a priority, that when you opened the door you were never sure what would come running at you...albeit a large dog, a cat or even a bird on the loose! To put it most accurately...his office was usually bedlam...a "zoo" run amok!

And, to validate the "zoo"...In Doc's private office in a very large cage? Bobby...the bobcat! That's right...A real live wild bobcat! Oh how I loved to be invited in to see Bobby! Doc used to say...Look out now, he'll bite! But, I would sit on the floor & open the cage a little & Bobby would come over for a good head scratching & petting! A cat lovers delight! Petting a real wild cat!

Doc would hear the door bell when you entered his clinic and yell out to you...Come on in and shut the door! Of course, not wanting whatever individuals were on the loose to escape! Frequently, Doc would be "in surgery" & if you didn't mind, could just go on back & talk to him while he finished up with one of his patients...

I loved to watch him work...Doc was a big man with big scarred hands & arms from bites & scratches from his sometimes frightened patients! And yet... when Doc was in surgery he worked with the most delicate touch. Hard to imagine such big hands & fingers doing such intricate work. An excellent surgeon and amazing healer!! He loved his patients...you could tell by the way he'd gently lift them off the operating table, still unconcious & put them on a soft bed in a cage to recover...patting them on the head & talking to them to reassure them they would be alright.

Anyhow, the day I took Ole' in to see Doc, I knew it was going to be bad. Doc looked at the sore & looked at me. Our choices? Amputate the leg with no guarntee that what we were looking at wasn't cancer was pretty much the diagnosis.

I said my good byes to Ole' and left him to be put to sleep...So hysterical I can't even remember how I got home. For almost a year...I couldn't even drive on the street where Doc's clinic was.

Trying to make a long story short...It was winter. David came home from work one night...And, came in the house & said he was going to bring something in & he was warning me it was going to be shocking to prepare myself....

David walks in the door holding a cat that looked like Ole'...I started to tell David, to take that cat out of here that I didn't want a cat that looked like Ole'...when all of a sudden...The paws came over David's arm, the sweet little polydachtyl PAWS...IT WAS OLE! I think I fainted...David said my eyes rolled back in my head & I fell to the couch...

Doc had kept Ole' all that time...He healed him! David had gone over to get some sheep medicine from Doc & Doc casually asked David how we were fixed for cats? David thinking Doc was always trying to find a home for some poor homeless individual...David said, "Why do you ask"? Doc went in the back & brought out Ole! His little leg completely healed with barely a scar!

The story was that Doc rarely had the heart to put any pets to sleep. That he would work diligently to do his best to cure them...That at his farm down at the lake he had huge numbers of dogs and cats that he took care of & fed, that at one time were left with him to be put to sleep!!

Doc was truly one of a kind! A man with the kindest, best heart...A man that simply loved animals...a true healer.

Not long after Ole's return to us...Doc divorced & remarried. Ann was his son's girlfriend, so the gossips claimed. Ann was a good 25 years younger than Doc...But, it never occurred to me that Doc was just a year younger than my Dad...He was so healthy & strong & handsome & in such good shape! Ann joined Doc at his office...And, for many years after Ann & Doc worked together! Ann organized the clinic. It smelled less bad! Bobby was taken to their home & another bobcat friend for Bobby was obtained. Ann kept great records & did her best to keep Doc organized. She allowed Doc to continue his "pro bono" work...it was pretty well known in Jeff City that if you didn't have the money to take care of your pet that Doc would help you out...either with reduced cost or frequently no cost at all...Or would trade his work for food or whatever the person had to offer...

Doc passed away this week. He had a stroke 5 years ago & Ann cared for him at their home until his passing. We lost a dear friend. I am so sad that I didn't go see Doc before he left us. I think he didn't want people to see him incapacitated and not strong...So, I try to comfort myself with that thought. I can just see what it must have been like for Doc when he got to Heaven...All those pets & animals he cared for all those years...knocking him down with joy...everyone happy & free from pain! Ole' was first in line to greet Doc...he lived to be a very old cat & we had him to enjoy for many years after Doc gave him back to us...he was in Heaven just waiting for Doc to get there...

The world was a better place for having had a man like Doc... huge gaping holes in the hearts of so many that loved him!

Robert Harry "Doc" Fuchs...Please read this great man's obituary, I think you will find it very interesting!
www.newstribune.com/articles/2010/08/25/obituaries/nt131obit_fuchs2010.txt

~Sally Calvin
*****

Gloriously cooler weather today makes one think there is hope for a spectacular cool & gorgeous fall. We all deserve a break from this "summer from hell"...And, hopefully all of us can get back to enjoying all of our favorite outdoor activities without fear of dropping over from heat exhaustion...

The crops are looking just pretty good considering...I think the fall offerings are going to be really stellar this year...Fruit? Totally amazing!! The trees are so full that the branches will break if not propped up!

This Saturday? You will be delighted with another fresh from the farm menu of tree/vine/plant ripened food that will almost prepares itself! Fresh is best...prepared simply...to bring out the most flavor! Less is best...when it comes to fresh...we don't want to over cook or over prepare...just enhance!

We always start with tomatoes! Because we can't imagine a week without them...I spent some time over at Better Cheddar last Saturday...sampling my way through the store & have to share with you a recipe I came up with using one of my purchases... a Swiss Raclette cheese & tomatoes, of course! Should that glorious Swiss cheese meet a Mexican Quesadilla? Oh, yes! First, you will need 4, 10-inch flour tortillas...You will have to have about 1/3 pound of that amazing Swiss Raclette, grated & 8 slices of bacon...cooked until crisp, & crumbled. I fix my quesadillas in a large non-stick skillet...I just brush the pan with olive oil...put in one of the tortillas...sprinkle on 1/4 of the grated cheese & 1/4 of the bacon...cook the tortilla on one side over med.high heat & flip and brown the other side until the cheese is melted...Plate the quesadilla & top with chopped tomato that has been salt & peppered...Or, if really lazy? Just spoon on some of my Real Italian Bruschetta...So, now we have added Italy...meeting Mexico! Superb!

Peaches...Sweet, juicy & tree ripened peaches are absolute perfection & a perfect dessert served with a glass of Champagne. However, I finally perfected making this recipe I saw on the Food channel this winter...And had no fresh peaches or the Taleggio cheese the recipe called for, at the time! I now have the peaches and found the Taleggio cheese on my trip through Better Cheddar...OMG! You simply have to make these sandwiches...I have a panini maker but you can prepare this without one...Just pretend you're making a toasted cheese sandwich & weight it down while it cooks...Peach Taleggio Panini's...You will need 8 slices of a good country bread. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil & toast one side of each piece on the preheated pannini grill until golden. You will need 8 ounces of the Taleggio cheese, sliced. Divide the cheese between the 4 sandwiches placing on the warmed toasted side of the bread...Core & cut into wedges 2-3 medium peaches...Place the peach wedges on top of the cheese...Drizzle the peaches with honey & sprinkle with sea salt & lot's of cracked black pepper. Top with fresh arugula & top with the remaining bread...Grill on the pannini press for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Cut the sandwich in half & serve immediately. I believe this sandwich would be equally good made with fresh, very ripe pears! Let me know what you think! The taleggio cheese is incredible & I am already thinking of other possible recipes!

Pears...Hoping to have both bosc & anjou this week. Try this very simple Pear/Raspberry Arugula Salad...You will need 8 cups of arugula...place in a large salad bowl with 3 pears (any kind) that have been quartered lengthwise, not peeled but cored & cut into long thin slices. Toss in the bowl with the arugula. Dress the pears & arugula with our Raspberry Vinaigrette & divide between 4 plates...garnish each plate with fresh raspberries & then sprinkle with grated Piave Vecchio Cheese...You know where to find this amazing cheese...It is very much like a young parmesan but tastes of roasted walnuts, Gruyere & the sweetness of an aged Gouda!
If you need a fast & easy dessert? Simply slice the pears, like for the salad...place on a plate & drizzle the pears with one of our fabulous Chocolate Sauces or Better Than Sex Sauce & sprinkle with a little sea salt!

Apples...The first round of the Gala apples on Saturday. Perfectly sweet & crunchy! A must have for those school lunch boxes. And, there really is truth to the "apple a day keeps the doctor away" thought! An apple for a snack mid morning or when you're having that afternoon slump is exactly what you need! Try this easy recipe for Grilled Apples with Cheese & Honey...Two large apples, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch rounds...Toss the apple slices with a little olive oil & powdered sugar...Grill over medium heat about 3 minutes on each side or until tender with nice grill marks...Transfer to serving plates...Top with parmesan cheese curls, a sprinkling of toasted pecans & drizzle with honey! Farmhouse gourmet simply fresh and fast!

Sweet Corn...It's been a grand summer for sweet corn. And, so many ways to use corn besides simply boiling & buttering. If you've never tried grilling a pizza...this is just pretty easy. I suggest you go by your favorite pizza place & ask for a hunk of pizza dough if you don't want to make your own...Which is really a cinch with one of those mixes...Either way you will need a prepared pizza crust rolled out to a 12 inch circle. Black Bean & Corn BBQ Pizza...preheat your grill to medium. Place the prepared pizza dough on a baking sheet covered with corn meal being sure the whole underside is coated. Carefully lift the pizza to the grill, close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the crust is puffed & lightly browned on the bottom. Turn crust over & quickly brush with 1/3 cup our Farmhouse Meatpaint & top with a mixture of one small tomato, diced...one cup canned black beans, rinsed & drained...1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears) & 1cup shredded smoked mozzarella cheese. Close the lid & grill another 4 minutes or so or until the cheese is melted & the crust is browned. Serve at once! This homemade grilled pizza is so flavorful you will never miss the sausage or pepperoni! Guaranteed!

Zucchini & Eggplant...If you want an absolutely delightful new twist to the grilled/broiled squash and eggplant...Just slice, brush with olive oil & grill on each side...finishing with that Piave Vecchio cheese instead of parmesan reggiano...WOW!

White Rose Potatoes...are good anyway you prepare them. I like to par boil them until not quite tender...Skewer, brush with olive oil and grill...The smokiness from the grill adds a lot of flavor & they are fast & easy to fix...Have the grilled potatoes with this recipe for Grilled Chicken Tenders with Italian Parsley Pesto...Take one pound chicken tenders & marinate in a mixure of 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tbs. olive oil & a tsp of chili powder...for about an hour. Remove the chicken from the marinade & discard the marinade. Grill the chicken on med/high heat for about 2 minutes on each side, cooked through & no longer pink inside. Top the chicken with a big spoonful of our Italian Parsley Pesto & serve at once! This is absolutely fast and kid friendly! You might want to make an extra batch of this grilled chicken to make a grilled chicken salad later???

Raspberries, Cantaloupe, Sweet Onions, Sweet Potatoes, Okra, Acorn & Butternut Squash ...will round out the farmhouse menu this week!

From the boulangerie....Pies this week? Apple, Blueberry, Peach Raspberry & Strawberry Rhubarb! Pecan Rolls, Italian Foccacia, French Baguettes, Fresh Baked Sweet Breads & Cookies!

From the Soup Cart...GAZPACHO...Red Spanish or Spicy Peach. Always a must have...! New Orleans Gumbo and only a few jars of the Farmhouse Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup...Stocking up for winter is suggested!

Pesto's and Tapenade...Pesto's this week? Cote d' Azur Petit Pois (back by popular demand), Italian Parsley & Smoked Red Pepper Almond. Nicoise Olive Tapenade, of course! Did you know that pesto freezes very well? Simply spoon into sections of an ice cube tray...when frozen pop into a ziploc...good to go!

Real English Key Lime or Lemon Curd is always available at market...I just ran across my old recipe for Lemon Curd Triflettes...In a small bowl mix 1/2 cup Chambord (or any raspberry liquor) with 1/4 cup cream sherry. You will need 2 pkgs. of ladyfingers, split (about 48) & 8 large stemmed water goblets. Brush both sides of the ladyfingers with the liquor/sherry mixture & line each goblet with the lady fingers, rounded side out. Make our famous "CurdWhip"...which is one jar curd & two cups whipped cream, folded together. You will need a pint of fresh raspberries...To each glass add 4 or 5 raspberries, a dollop of the CurdWhip, a few more berries & finish with another spoon of CurdWhip...top with more berries! Chill for at least an hour before serving for the flavors to meld...AMAZING! Super easy, super impressive & nothing harder than finding the ladyfingers in the grocery, right?

New This Week? Be sure & grab a jar of my Sweet Red Pepper & Onion Melange...this fabulous red relish will be fabulous on burgers, brats, hot dogs, wraps or any sandwich for that matter...Add to potato salad, egg salad, deviled eggs...Mix with a little mayo & sour cream for a topping for grilled fish or chicken. A limited number of jars!

Sunflowers, Sunflowers, Sunflowers...bigger & better than ever! Don't hesitate to email me if you have an event coming up & want to special order! These flowers truly have the ability to make your day brighter & happier! What a joy!

Many thanks to all of you who made it to market last week...It was truly our worst nightmare getting to market late...What a joy to see so many of you already there, waiting patiently for the van to be unloaded. And, don't we have a pair of really good young men, helping us this Season? Jeremey & Matt are the best! We promise to be on time this week...come hell or high water...Not so funny! Just know you are appreciated...all of you!
*****
Greenleaf Garden Service...

These girls are a professional garden service that would love to talk to you about all your yard & garden needs, this Saturday. Clean-ups, garden bed maintenance (weeding, deadheading, pruning), mulching, plant installation & so much more...Creative drainage solutions & landscape design, re-arranging & re-freshing! They can do it all!

After the summer we've had...It's time to take a long hard look at your yard, flower beds, gardens & poolsides & see where improvements can be made...Greenleaf has affordable solutions! And, if you've just purchased a home or are needing major transformation? Their design team can make your "dream yard" a reality!

Be sure & stop & talk to our girls this weekend...They've been with us a long time and have amazing references & a delightful portfolio for you to look at their work first hand! They have my personal seal of approval!
*****
The Independent...always keeping us "socially informed" in Kansas City! Go to www.kcindependent.com for more information!
*****
The local "foodie" magazine to read? Of course...Tastebud! Free at market every week! www.tastebudmagazine.com
*****
We need to start blogging... www.Widgeonwood.com Send your comments, recipes, favorite wines, upcoming events...Use the space...it will be fun! Also follow Widgeonwood on Facebook & Twitter!

School lunches...

noreply@blogger.com (Sally) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:15:00 +0000

Widgeonwood in the "Village"...
Saturday, August 21st at 8 a.m.
The Prairie Village Shops...under the "clock tower"
71st & Mission...In the "heart" of Prairie Village...
A Rain or Shine or Heatwave Market!
*****
"We are taught you must blame your father, your sisters, your brothers, the school, the teachers - but never blame yourself. It's never your fault. But it's always your fault, because if you wanted to change you're the one who has got to change."
~Katharine Hepburn
*****

So here is what I am thinking this week...What if there were independent FOOD CRITICS for SCHOOL CAFETERIA's? Can you imagine if the schools in the KC area knew any second that Walt Bodine & Charles Feruzza were coming their way? That their every "not so good" meal would be scrutinized by people that KNOW GOOD FOOD? That after they served that sugar & fat laden nasty meal made from "God only know's what & approved by the USDA" to our children & grandchildren there would be a REVIEW in the morning paper or talked about on the TV & Radio...Spelling out exactly what was served and by whom...outlining in detail the good, the bad & the ugly? Would there possibly then be IMPROVEMENT? Could fear of ridicule shame our school systems & the USDA? Could good reviews of school lunches have an impact & in the case of bad reviews would someone try harder to feed our children better food?

I started thinking about this as my Grandsons, Warren & Benjamin head off to school...And, of course I wonder what it is the poor kids are being fed? I checked the website for Putnam County Tennessee schools & must admit that the school menus look & sound better than last year! Look & sound better being the operative thought...I still think the food being offered is not so good...That they've put an updated "spin on the menu language" & it's still your basic bad food! After hearing this morning on a major TV show...that the USDA approves donuts for school breakfasts because the colorful sprinkles on top have Vitamin A in them? WHAT? There is no way in hell you can battle this insane logic!

Also, I watched quite a bit of the Jamie Oliver Food Revolution that aired in March...from Huntington, West Virginia...where I guess the folks only claim to fame in that area is sadly for being quite chubby. Jamie is a fabulous chef with great ideas...But, as I watched this still very "green" & not dry behind the ears little Englishman try to convince the professional school cooks to change the school lunch menu's for healthier food...I had to laugh! A fabulous concept...a grandiose idea...BUT NO WAY are the KIDS going to eat Jamie's food, no matter how healthy it is, no matter what "spin" he tried to put on it. And, the people preparing the food were quite adamant...they won't eat your healthy menu, Jamie! I think at one point Jamie was reduced to tears...

In all seriousness...A child has not a clue nor should be expected to know what is GOOD or BAD food. Yes, a kid know's what tastes good...And, as long as that one criteria is met...unless they fall under the PICKY EATER category...They'll eat most anything, particularly if it's deep fried & laden with sugar & fat! The schools are offering some healthy choices...salads & fresh fruit. But, what kid is going to opt for the salad plate instead of the pizza or cheeseburger? It rarely happens! If you saw the Jamie Oliver show, the healthier food went in the garbage...the kids wouldn't touch it!

My daughter, Tabitha pretty much set her Mommy straight...GET A CLUE, MOM...the kids aren't going to eat anything they can't spell or pronounce...BOTTOM LINE! They want chicken nuggets, pizza & cheeseburgers...and, the only way raw vegetables are going down their sweet little "pie holes"? FAT laden...not fat free Ranch Dressing to smother & dip the only roughage they ever eat! Sadly, my own grandsons would rather starve themselves & eat no lunch at all if the MENU isn't some rendition of "fast food"...I don't think they are much different than most kids in this country! We've got to continue with the trend to eliminate saturated fats, sodium & sugar wherever possible...but know that we must tread lightly...because if the child does not eat lunch? The child will not have the energy to learn...plain & simple!!

The better plan? Getting these kids moving...Off their oversized little "duffs", away from the televisions, computers & cell phones...Get them riding bicycles, walking to & from school where possible, participating in some kind of outdoor activities & sports...out in the FRESH AIR! Burning off the excess fat & sugar!

And, when you finally have your babies at home...for that breakfast & dinner, during the week & for all three meals on Saturday & Sunday? Make sure whenever possible the family sits down to meals together...Meals that you create & you are in charge of...Meals that include FRESH FOOD FROM THE FARM...using recipes where the child has to learn the language & pronounce what he's eating & know's that potatoes grow in the ground not in trees...where hummus, pesto, gazpacho, aoli & the like become part of their vocabulary. Where menu diversity is offered in an environment that encourages a child to at the very least...TRY new & different foods!

And, yes...I still advocate the "food critics" coming to the schools for spot checks! Not just Walt & Charles...but, parents and grandparents! We must stop in at lunch time at these schools & look around! Actually see what's being served. Maybe ask for a sample? Observe the kids...are they actually eating the food? And, if we see something that we don't like...we must SPEAK UP? We must QUESTION? And, if necessary...threaten to send Walt & Charles back through the lunch line for another scathing review!

"Tell me what you eat...and I will tell you who you are." said French gastronomist Anthelme Brillat-Savarin (1755-1856) Our children are our future and we must keep this very old thought and quotation in mind!

~Sally Calvin
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Who would ever have thought we would be so happy with a day that is only going to rise to 75 degrees? You can almost see the plants give a huge sigh of relief...the heat haze has gone away (temporarily) & afternoon showers are predicted for our area...YAY! Relief...albeit temporary, we'll take it!

The country farmhouse menu this week is fabulous...We lose some & gain some as the "season" changes and our appetites change with the cooler weather! We can start thinking about hearty soups & stews & baking with cooled off "foodie" enthusiasm!

I try to share recipes every week. Let me know how these are working for you & if you have others that I could share with everyone in the email or on the website, www.Widgeonwood.com ! Think simple fresh farmhouse gourmet! Remembering that a recipe does not have to have exotic ingredients, does not have to be complicated to prepare & the "gourmet" part? Always starts with FRESH ingredients! This is where we aim to please...

Tomatoes...We must be thinking of some great tomato recipes that would help parents provide a better "lunch box" for the kids headed back to school & possibly improve your own luncheon bad habits at the same time! Sure, you could slice some tomatoes into a container with some mozzarella & basil & a drizzle of olive oil...but, more than likely the "kid" isn't going to be so happy with this! I think a far better choice? Whole Wheat Soft Turkey Wrap...Drain & mash a can of black beans. Spread some of the mashed beans on a whole wheat tortilla...top with some fresh DICED TOMATO...add some chopped sweet onion, bell pepper, left over cut off the cob fresh sweet corn or cucumber (whatever the kid likes), thinly sliced deli turkey & shredded Jack cheese...roll up! For the more "gourmet" eater...the addition of a spoonful or two of Widgeonwood Salsa or our Widgeonwood Farmhouse Corn Relish could be added! These taco wraps hold up quite well made the night before.
Of course, a simple addition to the lunch box would be a container full of those super sweet Red Pear Tomatoes...I can't believe the number of little kids that love those things! Good for you...good for the kids...Tomato Pills, YAY! BTW...Silly Sally's Boozy Tomatoes ARE NOT MEANT FOR THE LUNCH BOX!
Okey Dokey, here's another more gourmet recipe...that tastes fabulous warm or cold & could be a lunch box food if you don't eat all of it for dinner! Phyllo Tomato Pizza...You will need either a can of that olive oil flavored spray or what I use at the farm is a Misto sprayer full of really good olive oil + 8 sheets of thawed phyllo dough. Start by spraying a jelly roll pan with the oil...then place a sheet of phyllo on the pan...spray well with the oil & then add another piece of the phyllo...repeat using all 8 sheets of phyllo. Sprinkle on 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (the absolute best to be found at Better Cheddar, of course)! Then layer in some of our thinly sliced Red Cajun Onion...about 1/2 cup. Then layer in about one pound of our fresh tomatoes, very thinly sliced. Top all with 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan & a chiffonade of fresh basil, as much as you like! Bake in a pre-heated 375 degree oven for about 15 minutes, or until the phyllo is browned & the cheese melted. Serve at once warm...Absolutely fabulous at room temperature! I know some of you may not have worked with phyllo dough before...just take your time...once you get to using this amazing frozen product...you will be creating your own recipes!

Peaches & Pears...Hopefully some more of those amazing Cresthavens this week! Tree ripened, juicy & sweet. Fruit, of course is the perfect food for the lunch box. You can get the most finicky of eaters to eat good fruit. Try this easy to put together sandwich not only for the school lunch...but, your's, too! Peach & Brie Sandwiches...First of all you will need good hearty rolls...like a French Roll, Kaiser, Ciabatta...In a small bowl...mix 1/2 cup Widgeonwood Peach Jam...sugar free or not, one fresh peach...peeled & chopped, 1 small baby Vidalia onion...minced, 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar, 1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional). Spread half of each roll with a good mayo & the other half with the peach mixture...top the sandwich with arugula (for the big people) or butter lettuce (for the small people)...then add slices of Brie (from Better Cheddar of course)!
The pears about a week early this season and hopefully we will have some Bartlett's...these fabulous sweet pears will be a wonderful addition to the lunch box. Another super simple sandwich idea? Just plain peanut butter & sliced pear sandwiches! YUM!
Or try this super easy recipe for Balsamic Chicken with Pears...in a large skillet over medium high heat in a tablespoon of olive oil saute' 4 boneless chicken breasts...for about 10 minutes or until the juices run clear when pierced...remove to a plate. In the same skillet add another tablespoon of olive oil and saute' 2 pears that have been cored, not peeled & cut into 8 wedges each...cook until the pears are browned & tender. In a bowl mix: 2 cups chicken broth, 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 4 tsp. cornstarch, 1 tbs. sugar & 1/2 cup golden raisins & mix well. Pour this mixture over the pears in the skillet & cook to boiling...then boil a minute longer. Add the chicken breasts & heat through. Fabulous served with our Saffron Jasmine Rice & some steamed fresh green beans!

Raspberries & Cantaloupe...Hopefully some more this week...One must be sure & have some raspberries in the freezer for the Holiday's! And, the cantaloupe remains sweet & delicious...Try this super easy Cantaloupe Tomato Salad...Halve, seed & cut into small chunks, one cantaloupe & place in a large bowl. Add two tomatoes, chopped. 2 or 3 Red Italian Bottle Onions, chopped. 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil. Dress with our Portofino Balsamic Vinaigrette, salt & pepper, to taste and top the salad with some crumbled goat cheese. Amazing!

Green Beans & White Rose Potatoes...I think it's time to bring back a super easy & fabulous old recipe for Green Beans & Baby Potatoes...Cut 1/2 pound bacon into small pieces & fry in a large heavy cooking pot until browned. Add 3 pounds green beans that have been washed & tipped. Frisk about with the bacon & the grease. Add 2 cups chicken stock, salt & pepper, to taste & cook the beans covered for about 30 minutes or until half done. Add 12 white rose potatoes(whole small ones or cut in half if larger) & several Red Italian Bottle Onions, that have been peeled; to the green beans & cook another 30 minutes adding another 1/2 cup of chicken broth if needed. Cook another 15 minutes if the green beans aren't tender, yet! This recipe serves 8 & improves in flavor when made ahead & reheated!

Zucchini, Yellow Zucchini & Summer Squash...I am stuck on making zucchini from last weeks recipe...the Broiled Zucchini! Talk about simple & good for you! However, this is another pretty easy one that I know you're going to love! Mozzarella Tapenade Topped Zucchini...remove the stems & cut in half lengthwise, either the zucchini or summer squash. In a bowl mix 1/2 cup Wigeonwood Nicoise' Olive Tapenade with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella & 2 tbs. chopped fresh parsley. Place squash cut side up in a well oiled baking dish & top each half with the tapenade mixture & then another 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella divided between the four halves of squash. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 15-20 minutes or until browned & bubbly. Let the squash rest until cooled slightly. Cut into 2 inch pieces & serve!
FABULOUS farmhouse fare!

Eggplant...hopefully the larger Italian Eggplants will be ready this week. Eggplant is so versatile & easy to prepare. I took slices of eggplant this week and prepared them right along with the zucchini slices using the broiler method! FAST & EASY...in fact, there was some left over that I might just have for breakfast this morning...I know, that sounds a little weird...but, seems fine to me!

Look for Sweet Onions, Sweet Corn, French Mesclun Salad, Arugula, Sweet Potatoes, Cucumbers & more!!

The Soup Carte...Of course, the GAZPACHO'S will be on hand...It isn't too early to start stocking up! Red Spanish or Spicy Peach...For, something a little different? Whiz one jar Spicy Peach Gazpacho with chunks of one cantaloupe in the blender...Place in the freezer to get simply ice cold & serve in frozen bowls sprinkled with cayenne & topped with some fresh crab meat! Yikes, this is good! I am not saying you have too? But, think about maybe spiking with some really good tequilla?
We will have Tomato & Cucumber Bisque...which makes for the most elegant appetizers served in chilled martini glasses!
And, another batch of Farmhouse Tomato Basil Vegetable Soup...special orders suggested...This is small batch soup that changes with every batch depending on what we have a surplus of here at the farm. Slow simmered for 24 hours to a thick amazing soup...that can be used for a pasta sauce as well!

The Boulangerie...Pies this week? Peach Raspberry, Sweet Cherry, Apple & Blueberry!
These pies freeze very well, by the way! We will have French Baguettes, Pecan Rolls & Foccacia! Sweet Breads this week? Carrot Toasted Pecan, Zucchini Toasted Pecan & Banana Toasted Pecan...slices of this bread would be a healthier alternative in the school lunch. In fact, spread with cream cheese, sprinkled with some raisins? Could be an alternative sandwich for that finicky eater?

Nicoise' Olive Tapenade, Smoked Red Pepper Almond Pesto & Italian Parsley Pesto...are must haves! A few spoonfuls of each into a prepared pasta with the addition of chunks of store bought rotisserie chicken? Makes for a meal in minutes!

Very Southern Green Tomato Pickles...we have very few jars of these delightful pickles. You cannot imagine what a slice or two will do for a hamburger! Also, for an incredible tartar sauce? Try 1 cup mayo, 1/4 cup buttermilk, 3/4 cup chopped green tomato pickle & salt & pepper! This also would be a great topping for a turkey/chicken wrap with some arugula?

It isn't too early to talk about the Holiday's, is it? Just around the corner, right? You might want to start a little early shopping & stock up on our dessert sauces...Better Than Sex Sauce, French Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Sauce or French Chocolate Grand Marnier Fondue Sauce...perfect gifts for the gourmet inclined on your shopping list!

Never hesitate to special order...this truly does avoid disappointment. We often run out of your favorite things...like "cheesewheel" & English curd!

Many thanks for another wonderful market last week...your friendship, loyalty & patronage is never taken for granted! You are most appreciated! Thank you for telling all your friends about our little market in the "heart of Prairie Village"...It's an awesome sight every Saturday morning to see the whole area come alive with good friends, food & laughter. We are blessed!
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Greenleaf Garden Service...

These girls are a professional garden service that would love to talk to you about all your yard & garden needs, this Saturday. Clean-ups, garden bed maintenance (weeding, deadheading, pruning), mulching, plant installation & so much more...Creative drainage solutions & landscape design, re-arranging & re-freshing! They can do it all!

After the summer we've had...It's time to take a long hard look at your yard, flower beds, gardens & poolsides & see where improvements can be made...Greenleaf has affordable solutions! And, if you've just purchased a home or are needing major transformation? Their design team can make your "dream yard" a reality!

Be sure & stop & talk to our girls this weekend...They've been with us a long time and have amazing references & a delightful portfolio for you to look at their work first hand! They have my personal seal of approval!
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The Independent...always keeping us "socially informed" in Kansas City! Go to www.kcindependent.com for more information!
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The local "foodie" magazine to read? Of course...Tastebud! Free at market every week! www.tastebudmagazine.com
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We need to start blogging... www.Widgeonwood.com Send your comments, recipes, favorite wines, upcoming events...Use the space...it will be fun! Also follow Widgeonwood on Facebook & Twitter!