Blog Makeover Inspired by the Retreat and A Keeper from the Recipe Box

Recently I returned from a women's retreat at WoHeLo Lodge in Field Spring's State Park. It was so fun to see old friends and make new friends. Everyone had a different purpose for the retreat. There was no agenda, no set plans. That was perfect for me.

Everyone enjoyed gathering around the table for delicious meals and meaningful conversations. Outside people covered the picnic table with the bright colored blanket  for word games and mobile making.

In the evening we missed having a campfire (because of the high fire danger),

but time inside was spent getting henna tattoos, doing drama games, playing charades, and board games.

Some people hiked, others took pictures, a group drove to the river to swim, and most everyone got lots of good rest and relaxation.

 I also got to spend quality time with my sister and try a new recipe: Autumn Sangria pictured above.
( see recipe below)

One of my goals on this retreat was to rethink and revise this blog. This blog and I have been through many revisions, many looks, many style changes, and many template changes. Slowly I have been revamping it the last week. For now I like the look. I feel I have come full circle with many of the things I first liked about blogging way back in 2007.

Take a look around. Visit some of my favorite blog links. Revisit the sibling writing assignments and my favorite recipes. Give me feedback about what you think. I look forward to hearing from you!
Oh... and try the sangria!

fall sangria

3 apples

3 pears

3 clementines

2-3 cinnamon sticks
2 tbsp honey or agave syrup
6 oz triple sec or cointreau
2 bottles of red wine (something fruity works best)
optional: fresh cherries

1. core and cube all fruit and put into a pitcher or carafe

2. add 2-3 cinnamon sticks & 2 honey, stir

3. add liquor and wine, stir and let sit.

it's best if you make this drink a few hours or even a day in advnace and let the flavors marinate in the fridge.  Garnish  with fresh, ripe cherries.

Here is the link for the blog with the recipe:
http://cailenascher.blogspot.com/2011/10/happy-hour-fall-sangria.html