Azoresgal~Life on an Island

The Nanaimo bar, whose origins are said to be from Nanaimo, British Columbia is one of Canada´s much loved desserts. It is certainly one of my all time favorites! Sooooo why is it, that I never make them? I will tell you why....because they are down right dangerous! Do not be fooled by these little no-bake squares, they are pure evil, in an ohhhh soooooo delicious way. They are creamy and crunchy and chocolaty all at the same time. I made these babies yesterday, it's only one little tin, it is sitting in my fridge, and I can hear them calling me, you know like in the film Jumangi! You know what I mean! If you have never had them, you are in for a treat, they are amazing ! Please do not be discouraged by what seems like alot of steps, they are very easy to make, and so worth it, I promise ! Crust Layer: ½ cup butter, softened 5 tbsp cocoa powder ½ cup sugar 1 tsp vanilla 1 egg, lightly beaten 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs ( marie cookies work) ½ cup chopped ...

This classic French-Canadian meat pie is a substantial dish, and a pleasant addition to your table for the holiday season. Here is a little bit of history :  The tourtière is a French-Canadian meat pie that originated in the province of Quebec in Canada as early as 1600. Most recipes for tourtière include ground pork and other ground meats.  The tourtière is a traditional part of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in Quebec, but the pie is also enjoyed at other times and throughout Canada. There is some debate about the origin of the name of the dish. Some believe that the dish is named after the now extinct passenger pigeons, called “tourtes,” that were cooked into the original pies.  Others argue that the pie is named after the deep ceramic baking dish that families used to create the pies.  It is, however, agreed that by 1611, the word tourtière had come to refer to the pastry containing meat or fish that was cooked in this medium-deep, round or rectang...

Our trip is slowly coming to an end, we have had a wonderful summer. This trip was about making memories, for everyone involved. I believe we have done just that....we had the time of our life. xo,Diana

While in Toronto a couple of days ago, I was stopped in my tracks, by the sound of a beautiful melody. We encountred this gentleman playing an instrument and bringing people to stop in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city, to actually take a listen. Everytime someone placed money, in a little bag he had, he would stop, place his hands together, bow his head and say "xie xie".  After a very long day of sight seeing in Toronto, the music he played truly was "music to my ears". a gentleman playing the Erhu xo,Diana

I miss you..... xo, Diana

my slowest eater & his fast-food xo,Diana

xo,Diana

xo,Diana

“ If you look deeply into the palm of your hand, you will see your parents and all generations of your ancestors. All of them are alive in this moment. Each is present in your body. You are the continuation of each of these people. ” Family Camping Trip My Parents & their Clan xo,Diana

  xo,Diana

Vegetables Fruits Fresh Baked Breads Fresh Meats Cheese Jams and Jellies Spices our picnic dessert: Apple Fritters

Who knew a basket of fresh blueberries could make someone so happy :) I bought these yesterday, they were two baskets for five dollars. This compared to back on the island is very cheap. I see alot of blueberry recipe's for the next couple week's on the blog. xoxo,Diana

This time we are in my father´s garden. I know it's not a nice thing to be jealous, but I am. I have never been able to grow sage in our garden. My father has mastered this, along with growing basil and oregano too !! Maybe while I am here, he will share his secrets with me :) xo,Diana