Okay, I'm starting the debate about sweet potatoes. I think every family has a specific way they like their sweet potatoes. Marshmallows or no, savory or sweet, and then there's the even more basic of do you use sweet potatoes or yams. Right? Well, here's MY take on this debate and what MY family likes on the holiday menu for that delicious Thanksgiving must-have. First, note: I just barely am starting to understand that there was a difference between sweet potatoes and yams, so I haven't experimented enough to really decide which I like better, BUT I do know I LOVE yams, so that's what I use.
I grew up not liking "sweet potatoes"- it was the part of Thanksgiving I thought well, if I run out room on the plate before I get some, no worries! Mostly all those times were dishes that included marshmallows or nuts on top- not my cup of tea. My mother's way to serve them are plain sliced with a little butter, salt, pepper, brown sugar?... on top (I think)- something simple like that. But that didn't get me either. The following recipe is a perfect medium between genuinely leaving the good taste of yams alone (not whipping it up with whatever) and yet still has a sweet topping, but not overpowering like marshmallows. It's great! Even though this recipe calls for sweet potatoes, the picture going along with this recipe looks very carotene in color, which tells me its more like yams...can sweet potatoes be that rich in color? I'm not sure, like I said. But when I was cooking thanksgiving dinner last year by myself, I used yams (garnet yams if you had to pick) and this recipe- LOVED IT! Our guests said that they were the highlight of the meal! It's an easy recipe... the first time I made it I didn't want to buy 'pumpkin pie spice' (student's budget), so I read the ingredients of that spice and made up my own. This worked great because I could actually use more of what I like (for example, cinnamon) and less of what I don't like as much. Hope you enjoy this recipe- I've memorized it, I make it even when it's not Thanksgiving dinner, it's just so good. Recipe note: bake yams in the microwave or over, either way, but if you use the oven don't wrap in foil like you might do a regular baked potato. The sweet potatoes tend to get all sticky and hard to manage after you take the foil off. Just scrub, prick with fork, and throw them in.
Dolloped Sweet Potatoes
From Taste of Home. Dolloped Sweet Potatoes published in Simple & Delicious November/December 2006, p10.
Ingredients
* 4 small sweet potatoes
* 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
* 1 tablespoon butter, softened
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Directions
* Scrub and pierce sweet potatoes; place on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 10-13 minutes or until tender, turning twice. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
* Cut an "X" in the top of each potato; fluff pulp with a fork. Dollop with cream cheese mixture. Yield: 4 servings.
Pumpkin Pancakes
Yummy Pumpkin Pancake Recipe (Easy)
from Bonnie-Jean Schmidt
My husband and I decided to treat the people at his office this morning by making pumpkin pancakes for them. I made the batter and then Andy took it to work with our griddle and fed his co-workers. It was a big success and everyone loved them, so in case you're interested here's the recipe.
2 cups Bisquick (or pancake mix)
2 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Ground Nutmeg (for less nutmeg flavor use 1/4 tsp.)
Mix dry ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.
1-2 cups Milk (depending on how thick you like your pancakes)
1 Egg
1/2 cup Canned Pumpkin
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
Mix wet ingredients together in a large bowl and then add the dry mixture and stir together (it should be a little lumpy). Cook on a griddle set at about 300 degrees, or cook over medium to medium high heat on the stove. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup pour batter onto heated skillet and wait for bubbles in the pancakes to stay on top, then flip pancakes over and finish cooking pancakes on the other side. (The medium heat setting takes the pancakes longer to brown, but if you're patient, they'll turn out perfect!
Yield approx. 12-16 pancakes 4 inch diameter.
May favorite thing to serve them with is Whipped Cream..... Yummy!
from Bonnie-Jean Schmidt
My husband and I decided to treat the people at his office this morning by making pumpkin pancakes for them. I made the batter and then Andy took it to work with our griddle and fed his co-workers. It was a big success and everyone loved them, so in case you're interested here's the recipe.
2 cups Bisquick (or pancake mix)
2 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Ground Nutmeg (for less nutmeg flavor use 1/4 tsp.)
Mix dry ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.
1-2 cups Milk (depending on how thick you like your pancakes)
1 Egg
1/2 cup Canned Pumpkin
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
Mix wet ingredients together in a large bowl and then add the dry mixture and stir together (it should be a little lumpy). Cook on a griddle set at about 300 degrees, or cook over medium to medium high heat on the stove. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup pour batter onto heated skillet and wait for bubbles in the pancakes to stay on top, then flip pancakes over and finish cooking pancakes on the other side. (The medium heat setting takes the pancakes longer to brown, but if you're patient, they'll turn out perfect!
Yield approx. 12-16 pancakes 4 inch diameter.
May favorite thing to serve them with is Whipped Cream..... Yummy!
Recipe Exchange
I love to cook. My husband loves to eat. It's the perfect synergy and tons of fun. I firmly believe that food opens doors as well as mouths. But not to get too deep on you- join our recipe exchange by sending in your recipes to our collection. Find recipes on our blog by clicking a category under "MORE POSTS"...
HOW DO I FIND ALL THE RECIPES? Go to the right-hand side bar and click on the category of "recipe exchange."
OCTOBER: Soup! There's still a week left, get your recipes in!
NOVEMBER: Holiday Favorites The season of great food is upon us- everyone is thinking about that great dinner coming up and what to cook. Share with us that special dish, dessert, or drink that makes your guests go "ooh." Or just down right wouldn't be the holidays without it!
DECEMBER: Cookies Does anyone else spend hours making plates of cookies for the neighbors for the holidays? Well, I do and I can't get enough good cookie recipes. Because I know for every plate I wrap, I get to sneak a few for myself- or more than a few!
HOW DO I FIND ALL THE RECIPES? Go to the right-hand side bar and click on the category of "recipe exchange."
OCTOBER: Soup! There's still a week left, get your recipes in!
NOVEMBER: Holiday Favorites The season of great food is upon us- everyone is thinking about that great dinner coming up and what to cook. Share with us that special dish, dessert, or drink that makes your guests go "ooh." Or just down right wouldn't be the holidays without it!
DECEMBER: Cookies Does anyone else spend hours making plates of cookies for the neighbors for the holidays? Well, I do and I can't get enough good cookie recipes. Because I know for every plate I wrap, I get to sneak a few for myself- or more than a few!
Pumpkin White Chocolate Cookies
Pumpkin White Chocolate Drop Cookies
Beat the following together
2 cups butter
2 cups sugar
1 – 16 oz. can of pumpkin
2 eggs
Add to liquid mixture
4 cups flour
2 tsp. pumpkin spice
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 – 12 oz. bag of white chocolate chips
Mix together and drop evenly on cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 16 minutes or until set. Cool for one minute on a cookie sheet.
Frosting
1 container cream cheese frosting
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
Combine and drizzle over cookies while warm.
This recipe was shared by Sarah Neuschwander of Albany, mom to Maddie and Megan.
It’s a huge hit at Emma Downtown each year during their fall open house. Enjoy!
posted in MOM magazine 2007 holiday issue
Easy Tortilla Soup
Easy Tortilla Soup
Submitted by Lora Christensen
serves 6-8
2 15oz cans black beans
1 15oz can drained pinto beans
2 12.5 oz can chunk chicken
2 15oz cans creamed corn
1 15oz can chopped tomatoes, undrained
32 oz chicken stock
2-3 packets taco seasoning
corn chips
sour cream
shredded colby-jack or mexican mix cheese
chopped green onions
sliced black olives
Pour chicken, 2 taco seasoning packets and black beans into large pot over med. heat. Mash chicken chunks to appear shredded.
Mix and add 1/2 the chicken stock, stir and bring to low simmer. Pour in tomatoes, pinto beans, remaining taco seasoning (1-2 depending on personal taste),
creamed corn and remainder of chicken stock and heat to low boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Can also make in the morning for dinner using a crock pot. Pour all ingredients in and cook on low.
Serve over corn tortilla chips.
Top with a dollop of sour cream, green onions, sliced black olives and shredded cheese
Eat and enjoy!
Submitted by Lora Christensen
serves 6-8
2 15oz cans black beans
1 15oz can drained pinto beans
2 12.5 oz can chunk chicken
2 15oz cans creamed corn
1 15oz can chopped tomatoes, undrained
32 oz chicken stock
2-3 packets taco seasoning
corn chips
sour cream
shredded colby-jack or mexican mix cheese
chopped green onions
sliced black olives
Pour chicken, 2 taco seasoning packets and black beans into large pot over med. heat. Mash chicken chunks to appear shredded.
Mix and add 1/2 the chicken stock, stir and bring to low simmer. Pour in tomatoes, pinto beans, remaining taco seasoning (1-2 depending on personal taste),
creamed corn and remainder of chicken stock and heat to low boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Can also make in the morning for dinner using a crock pot. Pour all ingredients in and cook on low.
Serve over corn tortilla chips.
Top with a dollop of sour cream, green onions, sliced black olives and shredded cheese
Eat and enjoy!
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Submitted by Summer Kelly
2 heads of broccoli steamed
1 head of cauliflower steamed
1 clove of garlic minced
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups half and half
3-4 cups cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste
Put half of the broccoli and cauliflower in a blender with 1/4 cup chicken broth and garlic and puree. Set aside. Melt butter in large sauce pan and let brown a little bit. Add the rest of the chicken broth, milk, and half and half slowly. Let thicken. Add cheese and mix well. Add pureed mixture and the rest of the broccoli and cauliflower to sauce pan. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy!
Submitted by Summer Kelly
2 heads of broccoli steamed
1 head of cauliflower steamed
1 clove of garlic minced
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups half and half
3-4 cups cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste
Put half of the broccoli and cauliflower in a blender with 1/4 cup chicken broth and garlic and puree. Set aside. Melt butter in large sauce pan and let brown a little bit. Add the rest of the chicken broth, milk, and half and half slowly. Let thicken. Add cheese and mix well. Add pureed mixture and the rest of the broccoli and cauliflower to sauce pan. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy!
Geary's Fat-Burning Chili
Ok, I haven't tried this recipe that my mom forwarded to me, but it looked very interesting. Anyone daring enough to try it...? Let us know what you think!
Geary's Fat-Burning Chili Recipe:
from Mike Geary, www.TruthAboutAbs.com
- 1.5 lbs lean ground meat (I like to use ground buffalo, ostrich, or grass-fed beef, but lean ground turkey can work also)
- 1 large red pepper diced
- 5-6 jalapeno peppers diced (adjust based on your desired "hotness")
- 2 onions diced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large can crushed tomatoes
- 1 can of kidney beans or black beans (good source of antioxidants and fiber)
- half a bag of frozen chopped spinach (adds extra nutrient density... add in towards the end of cooking)
- 2 tbsp molasses (this is a good source of antioxidants, adds great flavor, and only adds minimal sugar)
- 1 or 2 tbsp of chili powder
- 1 or 2 tsp of cumin
- 1 or 2 tbsp of crushed garlic
- 1/2 cup oat bran (adds fiber and also helps soak up some of the extra moisture)
- I also like to add some fresh chopped cilantro while it's cooking
- 1 ripe avocado (for use as a topping after chili is cooked)
- some grass-fed raw cheese if you can find it (topping after cooked)
Use a large pot and start with the olive oil and ground meat cooking. Just start adding all of the diced vegetables and other ingredients as you get them ready. If you want to get a little crazy, and increase the nutrition content of this chili even further, you can even mix the ground meat you're using with ground grass-fed organ meats (like this healthy organ meats article described)
Once it's all together and cooking in the pot, reduce heat to low and simmer for 40-50 minutes. Top each bowl with freshly diced ripe avocado (more satisfying healthy fats) and sprinkle with shredded raw grass-fed cheese. You've got an awesome hot delicious meal! This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Save the leftovers and bring healthy lunches or midmeals with you to work each day.
It doesn't get any more nutrient dense than this! This is the type of meal that is so dense in micro-nutrients, that it will satisfy your body's needs for nutrition (hence, eliminating cravings), but do it without overloading on calories.
Approximate macro-nutrient breakdown per serving:
35 g. protein, 45 g. carbs, 8 g. fiber, 14 g. fat (all healthy fat), 430 calories
Spaghetti and Meatball "Stoup"
Spaghetti and Meatball “Stoup” (thicker than soup, thinner than stew)
Submitted by: Teesha Lane
Prep time: 20 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Serves: 4
Ingredients
· 2 T olive oil
· 1 carrot, peeled and diced
· 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
· 2 celery ribs, chopped
· 4 cloves garlic
· 3 C tomato sauce
· 3 C chicken stock
· 1 lb. ground meat – meatloaf mix preferably
· ½ C grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, plus some for serving
· ½ C Italian bread crumbs
· 1 large egg, beaten
· 2 T chopped parsley
· ½ lb. spaghetti, broken in half
· 1 C basil leaves, torn or shredded
· 1 loaf Italian crusty bread, for dunking
Directions
Saute carrot, onion, celery and garlic in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce and stock. Cover and bring to a fast boil.
Mix meat, cheese, bread crumbs, egg and parsley – roll into 1 ½ to 2 inch balls. Add to boiling soup. Once it’s back to a boil, add the spaghetti. Reduce and simmer 10 minutes more – until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Stir in basil and remove “stoup”. Serve with bread and extra cheese!
Submitted by: Teesha Lane
Prep time: 20 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Serves: 4
Ingredients
· 2 T olive oil
· 1 carrot, peeled and diced
· 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
· 2 celery ribs, chopped
· 4 cloves garlic
· 3 C tomato sauce
· 3 C chicken stock
· 1 lb. ground meat – meatloaf mix preferably
· ½ C grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, plus some for serving
· ½ C Italian bread crumbs
· 1 large egg, beaten
· 2 T chopped parsley
· ½ lb. spaghetti, broken in half
· 1 C basil leaves, torn or shredded
· 1 loaf Italian crusty bread, for dunking
Directions
Saute carrot, onion, celery and garlic in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce and stock. Cover and bring to a fast boil.
Mix meat, cheese, bread crumbs, egg and parsley – roll into 1 ½ to 2 inch balls. Add to boiling soup. Once it’s back to a boil, add the spaghetti. Reduce and simmer 10 minutes more – until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through. Stir in basil and remove “stoup”. Serve with bread and extra cheese!
Rock Yer Baby!
CHECK IT OUT:
WHO/WHAT: "Rock Yer Baby" benefit for WellMama Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Services.
WHEN: 4 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3
WHERE: Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis, 1112 N.W. Circle Blvd.
PERFORMANCES: Lisa Landucci and Chris Arellano featuring Sugardirt; and New Tricks
CHILDCARE: Supervised play area for kids including movies and snacks.
COST: $10 for adults, $5 for children under age 12. Ticket prices go up $2 at the door. Advance tickets available at the Boys & Girls Club, Gracewinds Music and Zia Southwest Cuisine.
EVENT INFO: 323-493-3551.
WELLMAMA INFO: 800-896-0410 or wellmama.org.
Gazette-Times article:
A chance to help out new moms
By Nancy Raskauskas, The Entertainer Posted: Thursday, October 1, 2009 8:15 pm
CORVALLIS - "I had panic attacks … eventually I had suicidal thoughts," Csilla Andor said, recalling the weeks and months after giving birth to her son. "I had no idea what was going on with me. I just thought it was normal."
Read full article...
WHO/WHAT: "Rock Yer Baby" benefit for WellMama Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Services.
WHEN: 4 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3
WHERE: Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis, 1112 N.W. Circle Blvd.
PERFORMANCES: Lisa Landucci and Chris Arellano featuring Sugardirt; and New Tricks
CHILDCARE: Supervised play area for kids including movies and snacks.
COST: $10 for adults, $5 for children under age 12. Ticket prices go up $2 at the door. Advance tickets available at the Boys & Girls Club, Gracewinds Music and Zia Southwest Cuisine.
EVENT INFO: 323-493-3551.
WELLMAMA INFO: 800-896-0410 or wellmama.org.
Gazette-Times article:
A chance to help out new moms
By Nancy Raskauskas, The Entertainer Posted: Thursday, October 1, 2009 8:15 pm
CORVALLIS - "I had panic attacks … eventually I had suicidal thoughts," Csilla Andor said, recalling the weeks and months after giving birth to her son. "I had no idea what was going on with me. I just thought it was normal."
Read full article...
Back in Time to School!
While the older kids went back to school today, we took the younger kids back in time! To the Soap Creek Historic Schoolhouse. This schoolhouse is located about 8 miles north of Corvallis, before you get to Adair. We set up our little mock-1900's classroom and talked a little about the history of the school, played games like Tug-o-War with grass, Where's the thimble?, and Doggie, Doggie, where's your bone? Kid's also made a little craft apple necklace and made butter by shaking whipping cream. The schoolhouse was so adorable. It even still had a belfry where you could pull the rope to ring the bell to hurry in the kids to school. My daughter has asked many times when we're going to "preschool" again- she was so excited about her "first day of school." We had about 5 moms and 10 kids who were able to make it to the activity. Here's a few fun pictures!
Big Barn Swap
Good times playing the in big, white barn during our Big Barn Swap Extravaganza! Moms brought their kids to play on the trampoline, make clothespin horses, and run through the hay bale obstacle maze. Moms just enjoyed chatting and picking up a few free items to take home. There were many items still left at the end which we'll be donating soon- I got to work on that! ;) Thanks to all who was able to make it!!
The kids got into the swap meet as much as the moms did- maybe even more!
What a hoot- special guest appearance by BATMAN!!
What a hoot- special guest appearance by BATMAN!!
Trolley Tour
Corvallis Trolley Tour on August 15th.
For an hour one afternoon this summer we took the Corvallis Trolley Historic Homes Tour. Our family and one other family we're able to make the trolley. I enjoyed the tour overall; I will say, however, it wasn't as kid-friendly as I thought it would be. This little guy was pretty disruptive to the tour- a little embarrasing....
For an hour one afternoon this summer we took the Corvallis Trolley Historic Homes Tour. Our family and one other family we're able to make the trolley. I enjoyed the tour overall; I will say, however, it wasn't as kid-friendly as I thought it would be. This little guy was pretty disruptive to the tour- a little embarrasing....
One of the many times we've done the Stroller Walk along the riverfront path. I know it's early to get out there at 8:30am, but I wouldn't change that day in my week ever! It's so beautiful and peaceful. I feel connected with Corvallis. Also, it makes me feel active young again-- except when the OSU cross country team goes running past! I'll be there again someday girls, watch out! Lol. Just give me a year after this next baby is born... :)
Bounty of Benton County Excursion Plans
BOUNTY OF BENTON COUNTY EXCURSION:
I'm not a wine-drinker and their are plenty of exciting stuff going on for those who do... Fortuneately, it's still fun for those who don't drink, like me. If you're interested in seeing what the event Bounty of Benton County is all about, here's a little info and pre-planning for you.
Here is one idea of a route to take including 4 stops that seem interesting to kids as well:
First, pick up a "passport" for $10 at participating vendors (I'm not sure if that's per person, and if there's a different rate for kids, call ahead...). See website for details.There's so much to do, check out more places to visit during the weekend on their website.
1) Benton County Historical Musuem- around 11:00am?The museum features exhibits on Adair as well as the newly re-established Horner Collection featuring over 60,000 artifacts. Also on display is a collection of quilts celebrating Oregon's 150th anniversary. Enjoy music and wine tastings throughout the weekend.
2) Alsea Fish Hatchery- around 1:00pm, bring picnic(Travel west on Hwy. 34 to milepost 43. Turn right and travel 3/10 mile on a paved road to the hatchery.) The hatchery offers a stream scene pond, sturgeon pond and trophy trout pond for public viewing, as well as an information kiosk, picnic area and public restrooms. Fish printing and tours of the hatchery will be offered from noon-3pm on Saturday, September 5th and Sunday, September 6th.
3) Lumos Vineyard- bring a snackOn Saturday September 5th from 1:00pm-5:00pm, Lumos will be featuring their tasting room, pygmy goats, lawn games, awesome views of the valley where you can picnic and music.
4) Sunrise Tree Farms- Join in on the Scavenger Hunt ~ Explore the farm, find the treasures. Make your own ornament while it snows (snow- are they serious??? i'm not sure...). Saturday, September 5th & Sunday, September 6th – Noon to 5:00pm (Located on Highway 223 - just south of Maxfield Cr. Rd)
NOW DIRECTIONS TO GET TO EACH LOCATION:
Start at: BENTON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 1101 Main St Philomath, OR 97370
next stop about 24 minutes...
1. Head west on Corvallis Newport Hwy/Main St/OR-20/OR-34/US-20 toward N 10th St Continue to follow Corvallis Newport Hwy/OR-20/OR-34/US-20 - 0.7 mi
2. Turn left at Alsea Hwy/NFD 2005 Rd/OR-34 Continue to follow Alsea Hwy/OR-34 - 13.4 mi 3. Turn right at Carey Fox Rd - 0.8 mi4. Turn left at Fish Hatchery Rd - 233 ft
Arrive at: ALSEA FISH HATCHERY, 29050 Fish Hatchery Rd, Philomath, Benton, Oregon 97370
next stop about 31 minutes...
5. Head north on Fish Hatchery Rd toward Carey Fox Rd - 233 ft
6. Turn right at Carey Fox Rd - 0.8 mi
7. Turn left at Alsea Hwy/OR-34 - 13.4 mi
8. Turn left at Corvallis Newport Hwy/OR-20/US-20 Continue to follow Corvallis Newport Hwy/US-20 - 4.1 mi
9. Turn right at Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 1.1 mi
10. Turn right at Cardwell Hill Dr Destination will be on the right - 10 ft
Arrive at: LUMOS WINES, 24000 Cardwell Hill Dr Philomath, OR 97370
next stop about 14 minutes...
11. Head west on Cardwell Hill Dr toward Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 10 ft
12. Turn right at Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 6.8 mi
13. Turn right at Maxfield Creek Rd - 1.6 mi
Arrive at: Sunrise Tree Farm 24048 Maxfield Creek Rd Philomath, OR 97370-9756
This email was sent to you by a user on Google Maps (maps.google.com)Driving Directions Link: <http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1101+Main+Street,+Philomath&daddr=29050+Fish+Hatchery+Rd,+Philomath,+Benton,+Oregon+97370+to:24000+Cardwell+Hill+Drive,+Philomath+to:24048+Maxfield+Creek+Rd,+Philomath,+OR+97370-9756+(Sunrise+Tree+Farm)&geocode=%3BFXDdpQIdG4Wi-A%3B%3BFUYFqgIduhCl-CErQtivIq-HoQ&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=44.556945,-123.46882&sspn=0.431532,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=10>
I'm not a wine-drinker and their are plenty of exciting stuff going on for those who do... Fortuneately, it's still fun for those who don't drink, like me. If you're interested in seeing what the event Bounty of Benton County is all about, here's a little info and pre-planning for you.
Here is one idea of a route to take including 4 stops that seem interesting to kids as well:
First, pick up a "passport" for $10 at participating vendors (I'm not sure if that's per person, and if there's a different rate for kids, call ahead...). See website for details.There's so much to do, check out more places to visit during the weekend on their website.
1) Benton County Historical Musuem- around 11:00am?The museum features exhibits on Adair as well as the newly re-established Horner Collection featuring over 60,000 artifacts. Also on display is a collection of quilts celebrating Oregon's 150th anniversary. Enjoy music and wine tastings throughout the weekend.
2) Alsea Fish Hatchery- around 1:00pm, bring picnic(Travel west on Hwy. 34 to milepost 43. Turn right and travel 3/10 mile on a paved road to the hatchery.) The hatchery offers a stream scene pond, sturgeon pond and trophy trout pond for public viewing, as well as an information kiosk, picnic area and public restrooms. Fish printing and tours of the hatchery will be offered from noon-3pm on Saturday, September 5th and Sunday, September 6th.
3) Lumos Vineyard- bring a snackOn Saturday September 5th from 1:00pm-5:00pm, Lumos will be featuring their tasting room, pygmy goats, lawn games, awesome views of the valley where you can picnic and music.
4) Sunrise Tree Farms- Join in on the Scavenger Hunt ~ Explore the farm, find the treasures. Make your own ornament while it snows (snow- are they serious??? i'm not sure...). Saturday, September 5th & Sunday, September 6th – Noon to 5:00pm (Located on Highway 223 - just south of Maxfield Cr. Rd)
NOW DIRECTIONS TO GET TO EACH LOCATION:
Start at: BENTON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 1101 Main St Philomath, OR 97370
next stop about 24 minutes...
1. Head west on Corvallis Newport Hwy/Main St/OR-20/OR-34/US-20 toward N 10th St Continue to follow Corvallis Newport Hwy/OR-20/OR-34/US-20 - 0.7 mi
2. Turn left at Alsea Hwy/NFD 2005 Rd/OR-34 Continue to follow Alsea Hwy/OR-34 - 13.4 mi 3. Turn right at Carey Fox Rd - 0.8 mi4. Turn left at Fish Hatchery Rd - 233 ft
Arrive at: ALSEA FISH HATCHERY, 29050 Fish Hatchery Rd, Philomath, Benton, Oregon 97370
next stop about 31 minutes...
5. Head north on Fish Hatchery Rd toward Carey Fox Rd - 233 ft
6. Turn right at Carey Fox Rd - 0.8 mi
7. Turn left at Alsea Hwy/OR-34 - 13.4 mi
8. Turn left at Corvallis Newport Hwy/OR-20/US-20 Continue to follow Corvallis Newport Hwy/US-20 - 4.1 mi
9. Turn right at Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 1.1 mi
10. Turn right at Cardwell Hill Dr Destination will be on the right - 10 ft
Arrive at: LUMOS WINES, 24000 Cardwell Hill Dr Philomath, OR 97370
next stop about 14 minutes...
11. Head west on Cardwell Hill Dr toward Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 10 ft
12. Turn right at Kings Valley Hwy/OR-223 - 6.8 mi
13. Turn right at Maxfield Creek Rd - 1.6 mi
Arrive at: Sunrise Tree Farm 24048 Maxfield Creek Rd Philomath, OR 97370-9756
This email was sent to you by a user on Google Maps (maps.google.com)Driving Directions Link: <http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1101+Main+Street,+Philomath&daddr=29050+Fish+Hatchery+Rd,+Philomath,+Benton,+Oregon+97370+to:24000+Cardwell+Hill+Drive,+Philomath+to:24048+Maxfield+Creek+Rd,+Philomath,+OR+97370-9756+(Sunrise+Tree+Farm)&geocode=%3BFXDdpQIdG4Wi-A%3B%3BFUYFqgIduhCl-CErQtivIq-HoQ&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=44.556945,-123.46882&sspn=0.431532,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=10>
Water Day
As part of our Endless Summer program for September 2009, we've included some last-minute before fall water day activities! Gotta get the wet goodness in while we can!
SEPTEMBER SCHEDULE:
Friday, Sept. 4th- Wonderful World of Waterbabies, 11:30am-1:30pm at Osborne Aquatic Center.
Wednesday, Sept. 16th- Splash Fountain, 10am-12noon, Jackson Plaza on the downtown riverfront path.
Wednesday, Sept. 23rd- TBA
Wednesday, Sept. 30th- TBA
SEPTEMBER SCHEDULE:
Friday, Sept. 4th- Wonderful World of Waterbabies, 11:30am-1:30pm at Osborne Aquatic Center.
Wednesday, Sept. 16th- Splash Fountain, 10am-12noon, Jackson Plaza on the downtown riverfront path.
Wednesday, Sept. 23rd- TBA
Wednesday, Sept. 30th- TBA
Circle City Playground Tour
Just for fun...we'll visit a different park each week in a circle tour of playgrounds around Corvallis. Feel free to bring a sack lunch if desired.
SPECIAL SEPTEMBER SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, Sept. 1st: SE Corvallis Riverbend Park from 12noon-2pm. Directions: In south Corvallis, exit downtown on 3rd street/99W, turn left on Rivergreen Ave.
Tuesday, Sept. 15th: NE Corvallis Village Green Park at a new time 10am-12noon with special Kid's Dog Class with the Heartland Humane Society. Directions: Follow 9th street north, turn right at stop sign pass 7-11, on Conifer. Follow through curves and park will be on your right, by the baseball fields. If you go pass the baseball fields or Cheldelin Middle school, you've gone too far.
Tuesday, Sept. 22nd: NW Corvallis Walnut Park (Martin Luther King Jr.) from 12noon-2pm. Directions: Follow Walnut Blvd headed west; past Hoover Elementary school and past the junction of Witham Hill/Glenridge, lanes will merge and road will start to curve left, park is on your left.
Tuesday, Sept. 29th: SW Corvallis Grand Oaks Park from 12noon-2pm. Directions: off West Hills Road on SW Trellis Drive. Travel on 53rd street going south, turn right on SW West Hills Road. After about half a mile, turn right on SW Grand Oaks drive.
SPECIAL SEPTEMBER SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, Sept. 1st: SE Corvallis Riverbend Park from 12noon-2pm. Directions: In south Corvallis, exit downtown on 3rd street/99W, turn left on Rivergreen Ave.
Tuesday, Sept. 15th: NE Corvallis Village Green Park at a new time 10am-12noon with special Kid's Dog Class with the Heartland Humane Society. Directions: Follow 9th street north, turn right at stop sign pass 7-11, on Conifer. Follow through curves and park will be on your right, by the baseball fields. If you go pass the baseball fields or Cheldelin Middle school, you've gone too far.
Tuesday, Sept. 22nd: NW Corvallis Walnut Park (Martin Luther King Jr.) from 12noon-2pm. Directions: Follow Walnut Blvd headed west; past Hoover Elementary school and past the junction of Witham Hill/Glenridge, lanes will merge and road will start to curve left, park is on your left.
Tuesday, Sept. 29th: SW Corvallis Grand Oaks Park from 12noon-2pm. Directions: off West Hills Road on SW Trellis Drive. Travel on 53rd street going south, turn right on SW West Hills Road. After about half a mile, turn right on SW Grand Oaks drive.
Dining out with kids
Trying to make a night out feel a little special... with the kids? Good luck! But this may definetly help! A list of birthday treats and kids menus from restuarants around Corvallis:
New China Buffet- free buffet meal for birthday person (with purchase of 1 buffet)
Applebees- Wednesdays are 99 cents kids menu prices, birthdays get a free dessert shooter
Elmers- free dessert for birthday
Izzys- free buffet for kids on their birthday
McGraths- members of their eat club, get $10 certificate on birthday, club or not your birthday will bring a song and a sundae.
Aqua- "special kids menu" though I have yet to find out what it's like...
Ruby Tuesdays- sign up online for So Connected club and get free burger on birthday. all birthdays get free sundae
Sharis- birthdays get a free slice of pie, Wednesday nights also get a free slice of pie, Saturday/Sundays kids eat free all day (one per paying adult entree and drink).
Big River Restaurant- free truffle on birthday
Do you know of any other good family-friendly restaurants, birthday offers, or good deals on eating out? Let us all in the know and leave a comment!!
New China Buffet- free buffet meal for birthday person (with purchase of 1 buffet)
Applebees- Wednesdays are 99 cents kids menu prices, birthdays get a free dessert shooter
Elmers- free dessert for birthday
Izzys- free buffet for kids on their birthday
McGraths- members of their eat club, get $10 certificate on birthday, club or not your birthday will bring a song and a sundae.
Aqua- "special kids menu" though I have yet to find out what it's like...
Ruby Tuesdays- sign up online for So Connected club and get free burger on birthday. all birthdays get free sundae
Sharis- birthdays get a free slice of pie, Wednesday nights also get a free slice of pie, Saturday/Sundays kids eat free all day (one per paying adult entree and drink).
Big River Restaurant- free truffle on birthday
Do you know of any other good family-friendly restaurants, birthday offers, or good deals on eating out? Let us all in the know and leave a comment!!
Summer Reading Program Finale
WV Mommies has met weekly on Thursdays to get our wiggles out before library storytime. This week storytime was a special Art & Music Celebration day. After a few stories, the kids enjoyed making all kinds of art and crafts, and playing with some toys. We love our CP Library!!
I have to recruit more mommies to come hang out before storytime on Thursdays! So far, I'm the only one! I don't mind walking alone, but the playground time could use some company. If you don't make it to the library regularly, think about joining us on Thursdays! Come even just a little early to let the kids run out some energy before storytime. The library doesn't actually open until 10am, so you won't be able to walk around the library beforehand. Come join us!
WV mommies at Community Band Concert
WV Mommies had their first community playdate attending "Christmas in July" presented by the Corvallis Community Band. I said we were going to get festive and I didn't lie! Look at those hats! In fact, we drew enough attention to have our picture taken by the band's photographer- look for those pics on the band's website.
Here's our jolly bunch!
Taking some festiveness to the playground as well!
Those kids were such troopers too! This was the week Corvallis had 100 degree weather! They were such sports to wear their hats. The band had prepared a few treats for the audience too- free bottles of water, and half way through Mrs. Claus gave everyone popsicles! Definitely hit the spot! Yummy!
Here's our jolly bunch!
Taking some festiveness to the playground as well!
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