My $75 Backyard Garden | DIY Raised Bed Garden Box

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNtZ8tws45-P8uAFr-3zcR5P294tSfeVe0PIRDOQb8PEx5IHpgX6M5uFc7PBs-wfQ1PeYfivJoS-kd-aknJOKEAh0xiKDtbRlPPuGjACE5NGi_caM8gtBbpf70jXeG7Igs-McmSOfASk/s1600/garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNtZ8tws45-P8uAFr-3zcR5P294tSfeVe0PIRDOQb8PEx5IHpgX6M5uFc7PBs-wfQ1PeYfivJoS-kd-aknJOKEAh0xiKDtbRlPPuGjACE5NGi_caM8gtBbpf70jXeG7Igs-McmSOfASk/s640/garden.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>Every year I proclaim that I want to have a garden.  In our old Fairway home, I tried a little herb and lettuce garden by our back steps with no luck.  Too much shade.  In Concord, I had revived enthusiasm when I ordered heirloom tomatoes from Verrill Farm that resulted in a little luck... 2 tomatoes from 6 plants.  Again, too much shade.  This year in our new house, we have a substantial backyard with a great sunny spot that will (hopefully) work great for a small garden.<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmy-50-backyard-garden-diy-raised-bed.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZqSl0CFKsWM%2FUZKCKk4QI3I%2FAAAAAAAASYk%2FlzjIKdebzWM%2Fs640%2Fgarden.jpg&description=Easy%20DIY%20Raised%20Garden%20Box%20in%20just%202%20hours%20%2B%20%2475"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Growing up we always had a fairly large garden, the kids were enthusiastic about planting, but less enthusiastic about watering and weeding.  The first couple of harvests from the green beans, onions and tomatoes were exciting, but that soon faded as the cucumbers seem to multiply and the squash would take over the entire garden.  So, while planning this garden project, I was cautious of planting too much... as I know my 31-year-old self is basically the same semi-lazy 11-year-old during the summer months while the pool is open.  However, Emma LOVES to be outside, so I think this mini-garden will be just enough to keep me busy while she chases Mr. Darcy around with tennis balls.<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmy-50-backyard-garden-diy-raised-bed.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZqSl0CFKsWM%2FUZKCKk4QI3I%2FAAAAAAAASYk%2FlzjIKdebzWM%2Fs640%2Fgarden.jpg&description=Easy%20DIY%20Raised%20Garden%20Box%20in%20just%202%20hours%20%2B%20%2475"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />I've included photos of the project, but I'll tell you - it was silly simple.  It took me a total of 2 hours start to finish (with a trip to Home Depot for an extra load of topsoil...) and cost about $75.  I watched <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/video/0,,20263013,00.html">this "This Old House"</a> (my absolute favorite show!) "Gaden" video online before I started, but simplified it a little.  Because my box is smaller (6x4 vs. 4x10) I didn't feel the need to brace it.  I might regret it later, but for now, my 2 hour project looks perfect for me!  <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f4Iz7F11_QQ1uny7fBkGjAfzjOlRz7Bhzd0nANrCKRn0orR2iqdWSOPE5-MoGOrwKyQ-VG9smv36SPAK94i008qLcjPVLpHhyjOVSZgeaXLBskQ7tBOtptGMP7p6pEVcc7-o3jLIVZM/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f4Iz7F11_QQ1uny7fBkGjAfzjOlRz7Bhzd0nANrCKRn0orR2iqdWSOPE5-MoGOrwKyQ-VG9smv36SPAK94i008qLcjPVLpHhyjOVSZgeaXLBskQ7tBOtptGMP7p6pEVcc7-o3jLIVZM/s640/IMG_0576.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZBQAVwIrtv1Uy_1l2ZBD59EPk0EPAESOkpEkbbUC_42ov1eF3fdVZTGA3NnDaDYxsqhoc_0Pki8SAnzFWyz_-vyVtmc7GeGIA788j0chpYBhfuPMAXdBmQt1qNVBhk7sQQJSIU41zIw/s1600/IMG_0584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZBQAVwIrtv1Uy_1l2ZBD59EPk0EPAESOkpEkbbUC_42ov1eF3fdVZTGA3NnDaDYxsqhoc_0Pki8SAnzFWyz_-vyVtmc7GeGIA788j0chpYBhfuPMAXdBmQt1qNVBhk7sQQJSIU41zIw/s400/IMG_0584.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmy-50-backyard-garden-diy-raised-bed.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZqSl0CFKsWM%2FUZKCKk4QI3I%2FAAAAAAAASYk%2FlzjIKdebzWM%2Fs640%2Fgarden.jpg&description=Easy%20DIY%20Raised%20Garden%20Box%20in%20just%202%20hours%20%2B%20%2475"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Supplies :<br /><br />2 - 2x10x10's (cut into 2 - 4ft & 6ft pieces)<br />Outdoor Wood Screws (decking screws)<br />Electric Screwdriver<br />30 Bags of Topsoil<br />1 Bag of Mulch<br /><br />Plants:<br /><br />10  Tomato Plants<br />1 Rosemary<br />2 Basil<br />3 Thyme<br />3 Chive<br />1 Oregano<br />1 Cilantro<br />1 Italian Parsley<br />Arugula<br />Leaf Lettuce<br />Radishes<br />Green Onions<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NBJC_9DC3rxbe7dD5zgYc6r3_powbYl8lkVaLbv6NetMSEE3jPb45ZXD5xLO-zo1AnM5yS0Gneqb-9Kb2dn1uwhY1a-CDlt2WIdkDAbPuaptxDIN0sALYbmdwNwNUsULcVmmt7doGiQ/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NBJC_9DC3rxbe7dD5zgYc6r3_powbYl8lkVaLbv6NetMSEE3jPb45ZXD5xLO-zo1AnM5yS0Gneqb-9Kb2dn1uwhY1a-CDlt2WIdkDAbPuaptxDIN0sALYbmdwNwNUsULcVmmt7doGiQ/s640/IMG_0581.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The spot is shaded just in the morning, but has full sun from 10am - 6pm.  Hopefully, that will be enough... we'll see.<br /><br />The wood frame is completed after joining all of the sides with 3 screws each.   The box measures 6ft x 4ft.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsfbBReJHl1PBNgjKDaMfe6wMzOPeW6jvL3anDIwXb49zBAucjPql9I3zQWXUJIM0Xj0Ichs_MwQP1zEsgOjDwyGfE62KSA-QNAfkoGDHoGU6zTGqFZ1uI-uXMoTyLs3dmkn35hpIv0E/s1600/IMG_0585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsfbBReJHl1PBNgjKDaMfe6wMzOPeW6jvL3anDIwXb49zBAucjPql9I3zQWXUJIM0Xj0Ichs_MwQP1zEsgOjDwyGfE62KSA-QNAfkoGDHoGU6zTGqFZ1uI-uXMoTyLs3dmkn35hpIv0E/s640/IMG_0585.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I feel almost silly typing the "instructions" - too easy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCttRAtVLv0SyuTiu1zllkmN4FistABGyE0_xU0zh6ofGyTApKFa0cSbHu9ViyLVDgBYYEy8gM0CPI_daGZyFBh7zgMqYfFWgkgoVrplhTB5oX3g4g6YEo-KtPb0AeL5l1-mG26ExWtf4/s1600/IMG_0587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCttRAtVLv0SyuTiu1zllkmN4FistABGyE0_xU0zh6ofGyTApKFa0cSbHu9ViyLVDgBYYEy8gM0CPI_daGZyFBh7zgMqYfFWgkgoVrplhTB5oX3g4g6YEo-KtPb0AeL5l1-mG26ExWtf4/s640/IMG_0587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Hauling 30 bags of topsoil = good morning workout<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBeRlC1DSndp_AlSFtnhzGUOT6z9O5H98UtyO6ecGotjdcedHZo2BuHtOZXFld8Eh0hc-eaAMCcQEzHLOAX1QJLHdRkilSlh3c-WTJKJsdJC1XA_PfS4BgE5-ZTfhh_r5iL3_5apvC7U/s1600/IMG_0595.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBeRlC1DSndp_AlSFtnhzGUOT6z9O5H98UtyO6ecGotjdcedHZo2BuHtOZXFld8Eh0hc-eaAMCcQEzHLOAX1QJLHdRkilSlh3c-WTJKJsdJC1XA_PfS4BgE5-ZTfhh_r5iL3_5apvC7U/s640/IMG_0595.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><br />Planted!   The tomato plants line the back and the herbs are in the middle and front left.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XTphtSMnfV_1sLCQBQvuIe_-xMY_s30E-ituJVP3ciCzBSdvfGdlbKMgffWgeyYvwq6wWI3iNrvetzjZX9XXSGZTY7yGUlhdUylmfDiRAgIjEEkq5xWuhitAE9hOdOl7LL1MmB7gbMs/s1600/IMG_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XTphtSMnfV_1sLCQBQvuIe_-xMY_s30E-ituJVP3ciCzBSdvfGdlbKMgffWgeyYvwq6wWI3iNrvetzjZX9XXSGZTY7yGUlhdUylmfDiRAgIjEEkq5xWuhitAE9hOdOl7LL1MmB7gbMs/s640/IMG_0593.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I got the tomato plants from my cousin Bret's produce Farm, <a href="http://www.fahrmeierfarms.com/">Fahrmeier Farms</a>.  He recommended that I plant them very deep to create a strong root system. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzYKQGYKa8OoiWbRyOS4naI_LZ9W968X0g-f4GqYP0ydDNINCPvMFEwhMtPLGvvmMfVRvDp7nHEaL5QXMD3JWaiGUfEHjHyXtQzKIqsU9Uh-fhqm1ip72ZvjDDimGugiQelhWjKsucKU/s1600/IMG_0596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzYKQGYKa8OoiWbRyOS4naI_LZ9W968X0g-f4GqYP0ydDNINCPvMFEwhMtPLGvvmMfVRvDp7nHEaL5QXMD3JWaiGUfEHjHyXtQzKIqsU9Uh-fhqm1ip72ZvjDDimGugiQelhWjKsucKU/s640/IMG_0596.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />My plants were already anxious for a good drink!  The right front side of the planter will have lettuces, radishes and green onions later this week.<br /><br />Next step is to mulch and water.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTAFPGoTbgLVkRb6kgMty0jYzUh3My9L8BjWkuFkSGrJQIPoo5lvxNVgl1pQ6LvCKmYVe-j-KUBNScDjlYLxNNPfuvfPwMsC1KBBARh1r9DSdwcgmxTWRPCgeyjvbe464kWxC3YN6Saw/s1600/IMG_0599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTAFPGoTbgLVkRb6kgMty0jYzUh3My9L8BjWkuFkSGrJQIPoo5lvxNVgl1pQ6LvCKmYVe-j-KUBNScDjlYLxNNPfuvfPwMsC1KBBARh1r9DSdwcgmxTWRPCgeyjvbe464kWxC3YN6Saw/s640/IMG_0599.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Complete! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9wbiLO5IdcKeCnnSZn2UlP6suYkrHujaK4XiUQs0Hc8NM5kwM8Co5_nOZLOG4cb-tQuodKCVUVzp3EAsSETtrBysd1m7i_DxJNy1V3OBmkTZtcZxngy7PEqYoVt-Y9Ev8c7IVtEE700/s1600/IMG_0601.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9wbiLO5IdcKeCnnSZn2UlP6suYkrHujaK4XiUQs0Hc8NM5kwM8Co5_nOZLOG4cb-tQuodKCVUVzp3EAsSETtrBysd1m7i_DxJNy1V3OBmkTZtcZxngy7PEqYoVt-Y9Ev8c7IVtEE700/s640/IMG_0601.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I like the dark brown mulch the best - it will help to keep out the weeds, help keep moisture in... and help it look nice!<br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmy-50-backyard-garden-diy-raised-bed.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZqSl0CFKsWM%2FUZKCKk4QI3I%2FAAAAAAAASYk%2FlzjIKdebzWM%2Fs640%2Fgarden.jpg&description=Easy%20DIY%20Raised%20Garden%20Box%20in%20just%202%20hours%20%2B%20%2475"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9LPxLTH-exb_5apRv61tRCpFYa9XnlBttMYmeZq-zjFgPr9V7OnDDPhKWfJ1brVTXCx5lU4LFM6mLx4LYoSjBdU1DpB5SIDKKtlf-G9KLsPhNPZqt2c8G-ay68UFU8nuuve9tnBI2D8/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9LPxLTH-exb_5apRv61tRCpFYa9XnlBttMYmeZq-zjFgPr9V7OnDDPhKWfJ1brVTXCx5lU4LFM6mLx4LYoSjBdU1DpB5SIDKKtlf-G9KLsPhNPZqt2c8G-ay68UFU8nuuve9tnBI2D8/s640/IMG_0605.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I staked the tomato plants with wooden 6 foot stakes.  I'll tie them to the stick with twine later. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUEZIsXe4neM-6qrptcnRagFxCvQHCyBc4yiAwQv-sD_NW6U2nHf21e8AWKSiKeq-XOPAh_g3jG1va3TV75ZS_zRQRoHN97IiN44l2bxxaY_SvLPn9BNoa5HHXT9-_6g_GaIYyf_DZk0/s1600/IMG_0607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUEZIsXe4neM-6qrptcnRagFxCvQHCyBc4yiAwQv-sD_NW6U2nHf21e8AWKSiKeq-XOPAh_g3jG1va3TV75ZS_zRQRoHN97IiN44l2bxxaY_SvLPn9BNoa5HHXT9-_6g_GaIYyf_DZk0/s640/IMG_0607.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Watering time! </div><br />I'll keep you posted on the progress and status of the garden... wish me luck.<br /><br /> <a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fmy-50-backyard-garden-diy-raised-bed.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZqSl0CFKsWM%2FUZKCKk4QI3I%2FAAAAAAAASYk%2FlzjIKdebzWM%2Fs640%2Fgarden.jpg&description=Easy%20DIY%20Raised%20Garden%20Box%20in%20just%202%20hours%20%2B%20%2475"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

My $75 Backyard Garden | DIY Raised Bed Garden Box

Every year I proclaim that I want to have a garden.  In our old Fairway home, I tried a little herb and lettuce garden by our back steps wit...

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Simple Spring Supper | Brown Sugar & Sesame Marinated Pork Tenderloin

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RJo2mrN5IJspUjmLLNlfLZV9JVUZr36JEND0eAaECXSSAcYtB9qGRPec2RN1qmmN4awkk9bCM_0R2A8KD41Kg9tiIQIMVQevX8tW8QRCdl9bP28GhBlg_TfZbEuHJeeqAaeSPIYxJdw/s1600/IMG_9991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RJo2mrN5IJspUjmLLNlfLZV9JVUZr36JEND0eAaECXSSAcYtB9qGRPec2RN1qmmN4awkk9bCM_0R2A8KD41Kg9tiIQIMVQevX8tW8QRCdl9bP28GhBlg_TfZbEuHJeeqAaeSPIYxJdw/s640/IMG_9991.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7-RuS-73n4spLANsFhxnYKkGx41xyP59JHdJTgKhyAdhDcUVN601ZvHbbEulWUhJNRYTqR1sXeJtCaE2ZJL_nY76m85igySWuDJbJy1HYBdJcauf7XkLd4T0DMGY7xt42axkZ9SfKr4/s1600/IMG_9963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7-RuS-73n4spLANsFhxnYKkGx41xyP59JHdJTgKhyAdhDcUVN601ZvHbbEulWUhJNRYTqR1sXeJtCaE2ZJL_nY76m85igySWuDJbJy1HYBdJcauf7XkLd4T0DMGY7xt42axkZ9SfKr4/s640/IMG_9963.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fsimple-spring-supper-brown-sugar-sesame.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-oEOvkUrDUlc%2FUZEG9QJIQtI%2FAAAAAAAASVI%2FjHSUXsjIfKA%2Fs400%2Fpork-tenderloin.jpg&description=Marinated%20Pork%20Tenderloin%20with%20Vegetables%20-%20Perfect%20Simple%20and%20Fresh%20Supper"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Last Sunday we hosted Mike's parents for a casual Sunday Supper.  I love cooking on Sundays - it is the only day that I get to spend some alone time in the kitchen while Mike and Emma play outside.  It is so nice to be able to leisurely prepare dinner without keeping little hands entertained (which usually means she's putting them in the flour canister, then the sugar, and back again...).  <br /><br />I've used this marinade several times before -it is one of Mike's Mom's signatures.  It works great with beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, vegetables... anything.  Especially on the grill.  Unfortunately, we don't have a grill right now... it had to stay in Concord, Ma. when we moved because it was the last thing packed and it wouldn't fit in the Pod!  So... I just roasted it in the oven and it worked great, too.<br /><br />We're working on our outdoor grilling area + new grill this week (Mother's Day & Father's Day joint gift), so you can look forward to lots of grilling recipes soon!<br />  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBJjWQuedf3plEGN3teq-Ar38hLo6wJ-jfbG-H0YUD1mprVQN2E8asrT8HH-HQqLIjysmvnuR_0QB36m6QeC0wDGnGXqHwM3byVeglhw7SIbcVgFsPgcQQUFWjqYbuYurX06TCK2Wiis/s1600/IMG_9936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBJjWQuedf3plEGN3teq-Ar38hLo6wJ-jfbG-H0YUD1mprVQN2E8asrT8HH-HQqLIjysmvnuR_0QB36m6QeC0wDGnGXqHwM3byVeglhw7SIbcVgFsPgcQQUFWjqYbuYurX06TCK2Wiis/s640/IMG_9936.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love using drinking glasses as vases for small arrangements.  I found these hyacinth at the grocery store and make the perfect little bunch in these short glasses. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZulaDw58BMlV32jXkNqgQVrwgoDLOe13XFS_5uC_6WVAvmsUospdXPQ3VU1fFVe6GoQfqmvQSdCZ4UR54UloOpEPtFfHjNDjrYHUwVcXsk5xvIUGOQ3uNU2MPvulj-nE7v31smsPyo0/s1600/IMG_9967.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZulaDw58BMlV32jXkNqgQVrwgoDLOe13XFS_5uC_6WVAvmsUospdXPQ3VU1fFVe6GoQfqmvQSdCZ4UR54UloOpEPtFfHjNDjrYHUwVcXsk5xvIUGOQ3uNU2MPvulj-nE7v31smsPyo0/s640/IMG_9967.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />While I finished dinner Mike and his parents entertained (or were entertained by...?) Emma outside and sipped on this sparkling lemonade from Trader Joes.  What is it about playing outside and sipping on lemonade?!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHND8Et4YyckH4hXk5Gqc3bQ25W5dDf3B1xfjSRZpX_q59Dy7kUs8NKLsWiAKrDKs70TVnK-kVzWccGnFhi9NFSSV-t0LHu33-HhVFB7z0IedmCzeSmAi5m4VYQH9_UokdVMfHfqKK3qs/s1600/IMG_9985.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHND8Et4YyckH4hXk5Gqc3bQ25W5dDf3B1xfjSRZpX_q59Dy7kUs8NKLsWiAKrDKs70TVnK-kVzWccGnFhi9NFSSV-t0LHu33-HhVFB7z0IedmCzeSmAi5m4VYQH9_UokdVMfHfqKK3qs/s640/IMG_9985.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Along with the Brown Sugar & Sesame Pork Tenderloin, I served Ina's <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-barefoot-contessa-dinner-party-last.html">Orange Braised Carrots and Parsnips</a> and <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/01/1770-house-meatloaf-green-beans.html">Green Been Gremolata</a>.  <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6FvKsUtiZ3Z-vLzeVrtGzzZ7UAR4ty9K4M0DZAm-Wc3d626zspiCtcwXtwMaR80WC05v5F3TagJFD3LElTGC2Lb0BUvq76YKa0oHwurkEHeY7cWmMbsyOgQiYRIvqTvTAsukXLkKkMQ/s1600/pork-tenderloin.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6FvKsUtiZ3Z-vLzeVrtGzzZ7UAR4ty9K4M0DZAm-Wc3d626zspiCtcwXtwMaR80WC05v5F3TagJFD3LElTGC2Lb0BUvq76YKa0oHwurkEHeY7cWmMbsyOgQiYRIvqTvTAsukXLkKkMQ/s400/pork-tenderloin.jpg" width="265" /></a> Brown Sugar & Sesame<br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">Pork Tenderloin</span></i><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F05%2Fsimple-spring-supper-brown-sugar-sesame.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-oEOvkUrDUlc%2FUZEG9QJIQtI%2FAAAAAAAASVI%2FjHSUXsjIfKA%2Fs400%2Fpork-tenderloin.jpg&description=Marinated%20Pork%20Tenderloin%20with%20Vegetables%20-%20Perfect%20Simple%20and%20Fresh%20Supper"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each) <br />1 cup soy sauce<br />1/3 cup of brown sugar <br />2 tablespoons toasted (dark) sesame oil<br />1 teaspoons chili paste<br />1/2 cup sliced green onions <br /><div>2 tablespoons minced garlic<br />2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger<br />1 teaspoon of sesame seeds </div><div><br /></div><div>Stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, chili paste, green onions, garlic, ginger and sesame seeds.  Put the tenderloins in a ziplock and pour in the marinade.  Marinade for 1 hour and up to over night.</div><div><br /></div><div>If baking/roasting, remove from marinade and place on a baking sheet.  Roast at 450 degrees for 18-25 minutes until a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees.  Remove and cover with foil.  Reserve the juices in the pan from resting.   Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.  Slice, then pour juices over sliced pork. </div><div></div><div>If grilling, grill for 5-7 minutes on each side (totaling about 18-22 minutes depending on the temp of the grill) until a meat thermometer reads 155 degrees.  Remove and cover with foil.  Reserve the juices in the pan from resting.   Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.  Slice, then pour juices over sliced pork. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41nIK4wx9tu62VDj_VC0SMwYN2podroN1seFpEw_Y_-AFMsNe6qdE0A4BkVee5STQ7zkeM-8RSfJxY2DKyyeI8mj6EVMb2ilHG_Rg9JWVB8c7PWk82IC0TyZxB2HDPhDEtzpIs2w-lJs/s1600/IMG_9988.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41nIK4wx9tu62VDj_VC0SMwYN2podroN1seFpEw_Y_-AFMsNe6qdE0A4BkVee5STQ7zkeM-8RSfJxY2DKyyeI8mj6EVMb2ilHG_Rg9JWVB8c7PWk82IC0TyZxB2HDPhDEtzpIs2w-lJs/s640/IMG_9988.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />A big bountiful platter for a Sunday Supper. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2NL-iPORN9lzq8YESqwOlplsUzwnGbBtWJyCnRUD0QRXjntKd9EsKxSfr6YxJMMCXAfIT7ER0x3cxxW_D0LqoAPNXxp8c4zQ7bonjWMjcK-YxYaQRBC9_gn7LwDYn_vS8xmQqYS5PN4/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2NL-iPORN9lzq8YESqwOlplsUzwnGbBtWJyCnRUD0QRXjntKd9EsKxSfr6YxJMMCXAfIT7ER0x3cxxW_D0LqoAPNXxp8c4zQ7bonjWMjcK-YxYaQRBC9_gn7LwDYn_vS8xmQqYS5PN4/s640/IMG_0179.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This classic lemon pie with graham cracker crust topped with whipped cream is the perfect dessert... but, you'll have to wait for the recipe!  It will be featured on Snippet & Ink soon! 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Simple Spring Supper | Brown Sugar & Sesame Marinated Pork Tenderloin

Last Sunday we hosted Mike's parents for a casual Sunday Supper.  I love cooking on Sundays - it is the only day that I get to spend som...

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Happy Mother's Day

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mTwL1FxdKsrBU3mArVlB2FEJboxv-2NQfJPjTrebiRJOGo1QOyJae-krJNSiQrNoyIwVXU-ilfERmiqt8sgs9rSxTMuZJdoDGl2ZW9VkRYPfLuwJ4FRisckwRhr3-5tSF8pfS-GVq7w/s1600/IMG_0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mTwL1FxdKsrBU3mArVlB2FEJboxv-2NQfJPjTrebiRJOGo1QOyJae-krJNSiQrNoyIwVXU-ilfERmiqt8sgs9rSxTMuZJdoDGl2ZW9VkRYPfLuwJ4FRisckwRhr3-5tSF8pfS-GVq7w/s320/IMG_0412.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The past few weeks have provided the most stunning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">spring flowers we've seen around here in a long time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I thought I'd send a few Instagram flowers</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">your way for Mother's Day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTSXtXk9VPAJ9Q_j7T0ji7xVVz175ba00mS6ztGdBFU4_fMsiLXeySviIdYTAT_gqgp_AiKJ6eGnzerrP6MTstpbHvarSlaVbWPpGSB2Gog0ze0AGeakqsFJcc2zRQHHiGWNG9MY70kE/s1600/IMG_0431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTSXtXk9VPAJ9Q_j7T0ji7xVVz175ba00mS6ztGdBFU4_fMsiLXeySviIdYTAT_gqgp_AiKJ6eGnzerrP6MTstpbHvarSlaVbWPpGSB2Gog0ze0AGeakqsFJcc2zRQHHiGWNG9MY70kE/s320/IMG_0431.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">According to <a href="http://instagram.com/Saipua">Saipua</a>, this is a quince called Cameo.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8xKvfN79VHbz7y_jbEwlXdLfcS_xB5pm47NzG0d5oFYjO_A8n5Bughmtz8qKh-df7dDOA53p12SICKa5V-MgReGDA48ewU2T4Yw42K9AYABCFOEr0751fCvBhJ5B7A2yu2AI-xnF3v0/s1600/IMG_0475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8xKvfN79VHbz7y_jbEwlXdLfcS_xB5pm47NzG0d5oFYjO_A8n5Bughmtz8qKh-df7dDOA53p12SICKa5V-MgReGDA48ewU2T4Yw42K9AYABCFOEr0751fCvBhJ5B7A2yu2AI-xnF3v0/s320/IMG_0475.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tulips at the Boston Marathon Memorial.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xU6F32LWAVvv1xlaKSZLcv73FAKxW-U52nVDtZVCHp6RkbxKdPrZqGEfLsP2VkeFEdVtd1YkDZhOieKTeS5onE2vUlSNR6tIFITy_NOKPiMsMlXZ-q_flpfuyQ-uCCU3QVxp6RwqLuI/s1600/IMG_0482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xU6F32LWAVvv1xlaKSZLcv73FAKxW-U52nVDtZVCHp6RkbxKdPrZqGEfLsP2VkeFEdVtd1YkDZhOieKTeS5onE2vUlSNR6tIFITy_NOKPiMsMlXZ-q_flpfuyQ-uCCU3QVxp6RwqLuI/s320/IMG_0482.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I didn't think you'd mind a little chocolate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLgdCLD5kYD294JM-XFShxlEb7gIvgEpRIQl-JsKAYK6MIJLfUFzlrDxqBUSX7W-PokPZoIrR2ifuT36THA3OfETTyo68niiJIL2bJU6fviaWm-kcO0lu2WOPxZCfYu1brwBH6SzwE7s/s1600/IMG_0495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLgdCLD5kYD294JM-XFShxlEb7gIvgEpRIQl-JsKAYK6MIJLfUFzlrDxqBUSX7W-PokPZoIrR2ifuT36THA3OfETTyo68niiJIL2bJU6fviaWm-kcO0lu2WOPxZCfYu1brwBH6SzwE7s/s320/IMG_0495.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">White lilacs grew outside just between our</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">back door and my grandmother's house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They're always special.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqa9sQoSCVg3oj-CmBccfZL_z_gBXBrc3fbvCirXRyS4YFFKkY6znXlCvwal0KcuamFkLFXGk7wGfhZWqz38egm2t80gRpUjlesqUF0lmzNxxW9shabWQB1sku40bkn9TrSGN5vgOji0/s1600/IMG_0501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqa9sQoSCVg3oj-CmBccfZL_z_gBXBrc3fbvCirXRyS4YFFKkY6znXlCvwal0KcuamFkLFXGk7wGfhZWqz38egm2t80gRpUjlesqUF0lmzNxxW9shabWQB1sku40bkn9TrSGN5vgOji0/s320/IMG_0501.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dogwood.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4m2FJ3yAVRoT5TjZG1CD78h3qmpDibFSNHb8AKqXa3bLvSQYTUcBe47ZOgiX2vykKvKxRN38HfDts0Q8kaEGzO2YeLnCWkRZWW42MFuqO4G8HW2AQ0VnVEA9rMNDTqeFykcyCY5cAbk/s1600/IMG_0520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4m2FJ3yAVRoT5TjZG1CD78h3qmpDibFSNHb8AKqXa3bLvSQYTUcBe47ZOgiX2vykKvKxRN38HfDts0Q8kaEGzO2YeLnCWkRZWW42MFuqO4G8HW2AQ0VnVEA9rMNDTqeFykcyCY5cAbk/s320/IMG_0520.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After a heavy overnight rain, the lilacs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">were hanging like clusters of grapes.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_szph_K9wBvcV955AOzhfZHlFjPzibg2B3_A4x0PEtXxs3hY4Yup9KBhNedgIwqQyCUmaQMBtzEGvJLQ1sp-sIk2dRUF301t07nsJVDkvY1V0kdtqBgyYgBg6rySqBH66qu-wHnrhwcc/s1600/IMG_0523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_szph_K9wBvcV955AOzhfZHlFjPzibg2B3_A4x0PEtXxs3hY4Yup9KBhNedgIwqQyCUmaQMBtzEGvJLQ1sp-sIk2dRUF301t07nsJVDkvY1V0kdtqBgyYgBg6rySqBH66qu-wHnrhwcc/s320/IMG_0523.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the maple and cherry flowers were left</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">in colorful puddles on my neighbor's driveway.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblfXfNS8bMHHAOfpR3jbxfbi9QquguzIvUTiZDAKqJILR908IsHYHl53UAmS9uy_6kZJY7XUkJCoeO2ta14nnpzlSd1hUTCndNy-adJZJtVhzN0RUkp0TTkGKUsCYl19gG6agqyULpG0/s1600/IMG_0535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblfXfNS8bMHHAOfpR3jbxfbi9QquguzIvUTiZDAKqJILR908IsHYHl53UAmS9uy_6kZJY7XUkJCoeO2ta14nnpzlSd1hUTCndNy-adJZJtVhzN0RUkp0TTkGKUsCYl19gG6agqyULpG0/s320/IMG_0535.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A massive white Wisteria.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAOGpHe5UobG-WiSdEN9c5PmqNgVr4mzjYug1v4BizzgVrAZf3_HwjA22kqMsISXA7eziFJtM3Yyyn53mcVGtRG9DZPq2bMgOzL0KFM1DOAVUiJGYCoT7ZE-zmzBat2xRcMxH3IFsVtU/s1600/IMG_0540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAOGpHe5UobG-WiSdEN9c5PmqNgVr4mzjYug1v4BizzgVrAZf3_HwjA22kqMsISXA7eziFJtM3Yyyn53mcVGtRG9DZPq2bMgOzL0KFM1DOAVUiJGYCoT7ZE-zmzBat2xRcMxH3IFsVtU/s320/IMG_0540.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And my my favorite nostalgic Mother's Day flower.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">No matter where I am, the scent turns me into a 7-year-old</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">playing outside my grandmother's house. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Mother's Day.</div><br /></div>

Happy Mother's Day

The past few weeks have provided the most stunning spring flowers we've seen around here in a long time. I thought I'd send a few In...

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