Kristie Booker's Blog, page 4
September 30, 2024
Seared Salmon
Ingredients:
6 oz. Boneless Salmon Filet
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400.
Heat a dry cast-iron pan over high heat for 5 minutes.Pat salmon filet dry, rub with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.Place salmon in the hot pan, cook rounded side down for 2 minutes without moving. If cooking more than one piece, cooking time is the same—just make sure not to overcrowd the pan.Flip salmon, then roast in the oven for 4-5 minutes for medium.Let salmon rest covered with foil for 3-5 minutes.Serve salmon on top of a salad, with rice and vegetables, or make a salmon BLT! It’s delicious topped with a bit of pesto. Enjoy!The post Seared Salmon appeared first on Kristie Booker.
September 23, 2024
Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta
Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta recipe has been my go-to summer dish. As with most recipes, I can’t help but tweak and experiment. Below Ina’s recipe are four delicious variations I’ve concocted.
Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta (Ina uses angel hair)4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved1/2 cup good olive oil1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)18 large basil leaves, julienned1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakesKosher saltFreshly ground black pepper1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheeseExtra basil leaves for garnishInstructions:
Marinate the Tomatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir together and let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.Cook the Pasta: When ready to serve, bring a large pot of water with a generous amount of salt to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.Combine: Add the hot pasta to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. The heat from the pasta will gently warm the tomatoes and release their juices.Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta and toss again until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves. Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful summer pasta!Variations:
1. Chilled Caprese Pasta Salad
Swap in cooked bowtie pasta (though any shape works) and rinse it in cold water before tossing it in the tomato mixture along with tiny fresh mozzarella balls for a refreshing twist.
2. Tomato Burrata Salad
Ditch the pasta entirely and pair the marinated tomatoes with peppery arugula, creamy burrata, and salty prosciutto for a light and indulgent meal.
3. Bruschetta-Style Grilled Sourdough
Grill thick slices of sourdough and top them with the marinated tomato mixture for a delicious appetizer.
4. Gourmet Pizza Upgrade
Breath new life into a frozen pizza by spreading leftover marinated tomatoes on top before baking.
This recipe is perfect for a hot summer day, as it features fresh, juicy tomatoes and a touch of basil, making it both light and satisfying. Let me know if you try the recipe!
The post Ina Garten’s Summer Pasta appeared first on Kristie Booker.
August 17, 2024
Ghost Stories to Moon Gardens: My Novel’s Journey
From Supernatural Fascination to Moon Garden Inspiration The mystical and unknown have always captivated me. I grew up in the 80s, a golden era for supernatural horror. This environment fueled my obsession with ghosts and the paranormal. I spent hours in our town’s cemetery, reading old tombstones. I imagined the lives and deaths of those […]
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From Ghost Stories to Moon Gardens: The Mystical Journey Behind Summer in the Moon Garden
I’ve always been drawn to the mystical and unknown. Growing up in the 80s—a golden era for supernatural horror—I developed an obsession with ghosts and the paranormal. I’d spend hours in our town’s cemetery, reading old tombstones and imagining the lives (and deaths) of those who came before us. Movies like “The Shining,” “The Exorcist,” and “Poltergeist” only fueled my fascination with the supernatural.
This curiosity about the unknown has been a thread throughout my life, influencing my storytelling and now, my latest novel, Summer in the Moon Garden. In my last newsletter, I shared how the story was inspired by my childhood friendships. Growing up in a small town with limited entertainment, my friends and I often turned to ghost stories, Ouija boards, and our active imaginations for excitement.
You might wonder how I transitioned from ghostly tales to a heartwarming story set in a moon garden. The connection lies in the sense of mystery and the exploration of the unknown that both themes share. Just as ghost stories allowed me to ponder the mysteries of existence and the limits of human understanding, a moon garden offers a space for reflection, transformation, and encounters with the unexpected.
In the likely case that you’ve never heard of a moon garden, it is a magical space designed to be enjoyed at night, under the soft glow of moonlight. These gardens typically feature white or pale-colored flowers that seem to glow in the dark, plants with silver or gray foliage that shimmer in moonlight, night-blooming flowers like moonflowers or evening primrose, fragrant plants that release their scents in the evening, and reflective elements like water features or mirrors. The overall effect is a serene, almost ethereal atmosphere that invites quiet contemplation and wonder—not unlike the feeling of telling ghost stories under a starry sky.
In Summer in the Moon Garden, I’ve woven together my love for the mystical with the serene beauty of nighttime flora. The result is a story that explores personal growth, hidden secrets, and the magic that can unfold when we open ourselves to new experiences—all against the backdrop of a luminous garden that comes alive under the moon’s glow.
When I started planning Summer in the Moon Garden, I knew I wanted a setting that was both unique and symbolic. The moon garden offered the perfect blend of beauty, mystery, and metaphor. Here are five reasons why I chose this setting.
1. A Space for Transformation: Just as my protagonists Kat and Jess both undergo significant personal growth, a moon garden transforms from an ordinary space during the day to a luminous wonderland at night.
2. Symbolism of Cycles: The moon’s phases mirror the emotional journey of the characters, representing change, renewal, and the ebb and flow of life.
3. Sensory Rich Environment: The fragrant blooms, soft textures, and visual beauty of a moon garden provided a lush backdrop for sensory descriptions, allowing readers to feel fully immersed in the story.
4. A Retreat for Reflection: Moon gardens are inherently peaceful spaces, perfect for the moments of introspection and intimate conversations that drive the narrative forward.
5. Connection to Nature: In our fast-paced world, I wanted to explore the healing power of connecting with nature, which is a central theme of the book.
Researching moon gardens for this novel was a joy. I spoke with horticulturists, visited night-blooming gardens, and even planted a small moon garden in my yard last summer. These experiences deepened my appreciation for these magical spaces.
I can’t wait for you to experience of Summer in the Moon Garden for yourself. As you turn the pages, I hope you’ll feel as though you’re strolling through this enchanted space, experiencing its magic firsthand. The luminous flowers, the fragrant night air, and the revelations that unfold under the moon’s glow—all of these elements are woven into the story, inviting you to lose yourself in this nocturnal world.
Have you ever visited or created a moon garden? I’d love to hear about your experiences or what you imagine a perfect moon garden would be like!
The post From Ghost Stories to Moon Gardens: The Mystical Journey Behind Summer in the Moon Garden first appeared on Kristie Booker.
The post From Ghost Stories to Moon Gardens: The Mystical Journey Behind Summer in the Moon Garden appeared first on Kristie Booker.
July 19, 2024
The Inspiration Behind My Latest Novel
During one of our weekends together, reminiscing about old times and creating new memories, my friends suggested I write a book about our group. We had always been a mischievous bunch, with more stories to share than time allowed. It seemed like the perfect foundation for a novel.
I already had a character in mind—Kat—but her story wasn’t fully formed. Inspired by our reunion, I had Kat return to her hometown after a long absence, only to discover that one of her childhood best friends was dying of cancer. It felt like a powerful premise, mirroring our own painful reality.
However, as I delved deeper into the writing process, I found myself at an emotional crossroads. Halfway through the draft, I realized the story I was telling was overwhelmingly sad. It didn’t feel right. The friend we were losing had always been the life of the party, brimming with more vitality than any of us. Her spirit seemed at odds with the somber tale I was writing.
That’s when it hit me—why not use the power of fiction to tell the story I wished were true? I asked myself, “What’s the opposite of dying from cancer?” The answer came instantly: winning the lottery. With renewed purpose, I scrapped my initial draft and started over.
In this reimagined version, I infused various characters with aspects of my friends’ personalities. But it was the character of Jess, the lottery winner, who became the heart of the novel. Jess embodies the spirit of my dear friend, who is no longer with us. Her philosophy of loving those around you, having fun, teaching others to do the same, and ultimately just doing whatever makes you happy, became the driving force of the narrative.
Through Jess, I could celebrate my friend’s life rather than mourn her loss. The novel became a tribute to her infectious joy and the profound impact she had on all of us. It’s a story of second chances, seizing life’s opportunities, and the enduring power of friendship.
Writing this book was a healing process for me. It allowed me to explore the ‘what ifs’ and create a world where our friend’s vibrant spirit lives on. While reality may not always give us the endings we hope for, fiction provides a canvas where we can paint our deepest wishes and brightest hopes.
My latest novel is more than just a story—it’s a celebration of life, friendship, and the indelible mark we leave on each other’s hearts. It’s a reminder that even in the face of loss, the memories we create and the love we share can continue to inspire and bring joy long after we’re gone.
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The post The Inspiration Behind My Latest Novel appeared first on Kristie Booker.
July 2, 2024
Get Juiced Power Protein Smoothie
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Kory’s Very Berry Smoothie
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May 28, 2024
Mary Ann’s Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Let me tell you about my family’s favorite buttermilk drop biscuits, a treasured recipe passed down from my great aunt. She was a devoted farm wife whose memory, along with my grandmothers’, inspired my character Mary Ann in my novel, Blooming Into Life. Mary Ann upholds the family tradition of bringing the family together for homemade meals, just as my great aunt and grandmothers did. Her warm, inviting kitchen is the heart of her home, and her love for cooking and baking shines through in the story.
My great aunt’s and grandmothers’ dedication to their families and their commitment to keeping traditions alive, handed down from one generation to the next, was a significant inspiration for Mary Ann’s character. It’s a tribute to the strong, caring women in my own life, including my two grandmothers and two great-grandmothers, whom I was lucky enough to know.
Now, let me tell you about these incredible buttermilk drop biscuits. They are so easy to make that even the most novice baker can whip up a batch in no time. The best part? No rolling or cutting required. You just mix up the dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet, and they’re ready for the oven.
My family can’t get enough of these biscuits. They’re perfect for breakfast, dinner, or a quick berry shortcake (just dust with sugar before baking).
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoons baking soda
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup cold buttermilk
8 tablespoons melted butter
Egg
Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Pour in the buttermilk and melted butter and stir until a dough forms. Using an ice cream scoop, drop mounds of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Combine the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and whisk. Gently brush the tops of the biscuits. Bake the biscuits 11-13 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the center is set. Remove the biscuits from the oven and enjoy the biscuits warm with your favorite toppings.
The post Mary Ann’s Buttermilk Drop Biscuits first appeared on Kristie Booker.
The post Mary Ann’s Buttermilk Drop Biscuits appeared first on Kristie Booker.
Why I Rewrote Blooming Into Life
As a writer, I’m my own harshest critic. Upon reflection, I’ve identified areas where Blooming Into Life could be improved. The story could be strengthened, the characters more fully developed, and the overall narrative made more cohesive.
When I first wrote the book in 2018, I poured my heart and soul into it. But as time passed and I grew as a writer, I began to see the flaws and inconsistencies that I had initially overlooked. I realized that there were moments where the plot faltered, characters felt two-dimensional, and the pacing was uneven.
At first, the thought of rewriting the book was daunting. It had already been published, after all, and had found its way into the hands of readers. But the more I contemplated it, the more I realized that I owed it to myself and my readers to create the best possible version of the story.
Rewriting the book allowed me to address the weaknesses I had identified. I dove deeper into the characters’ motivations, fleshed out their backstories, and made them feel more authentic and relatable. I tightened the plot, eliminated unnecessary diversions, and ensured that every scene served a purpose in driving the story forward.
Also, rewriting the book gave me the opportunity to incorporate feedback from readers and critics. I took their insights into account, refining the story to better resonate with my audience. By doing so, I aimed to create a more satisfying and immersive reading experience that would linger in readers’ minds long after they turned the final page.
The original version of the story focused solely on Colleen’s perspective. However, as time passed, I realized that Mary Ann’s voice was essential to create a more complete and engaging narrative. Her experiences, thoughts, and emotions added a new layer to the story, providing previously untold insights.
Including Mary Ann’s point of view allowed me to explore the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship and showcase the challenges and joys they both faced. It also enabled me to create a more balanced and well-rounded story structure, with a narrative that shifts between two distinct voices.
The contrast between Colleen’s and Mary Ann’s journeys adds depth to the story. While Colleen is trying to break free from the past, Mary Ann is holding onto it. This dynamic showcases the different ways people cope with loss and change, and it’s a powerful testament to the enduring strength of family bonds.
Ultimately, my aim with this story was to create something heartwarming and inspiring that encourages readers to examine their own lives and relationships. I wanted to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love and connection. Through the ups and downs of Colleen, Mary Ann, and their family’s journey, I hoped to leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired to embrace their true selves and cherish the bonds that make life worth living.
I poured my heart into these revisions, and I believe they have elevated the book to a new level. The core of the story remains the same, but the added depth and perspective have made it a more satisfying and emotionally resonant read.
The post Why I Rewrote Blooming Into Life first appeared on Kristie Booker.
The post Why I Rewrote Blooming Into Life appeared first on Kristie Booker.
May 14, 2024
Behind the Pages
When I started writing Blooming Into Life, I set out to explore the messy, complicated world of family relationships. Also, I wanted to delve into the incredible resilience of the human spirit. These themes have always fascinated me. I aimed to celebrate the unbreakable bonds that connect families across generations. Additionally, I sought to showcase the enduring power of love and connection. My goal was to create an inspiring story that would resonate with readers. I hoped to encourage them to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
Above all, I felt compelled to highlight the importance of staying true to oneself. This is especially crucial when faced with societal pressures and expectations. This theme resonates deeply with me. It is an essential element of the story I wanted to tell.
At the heart of Blooming Into Life is the story of a family shattered by loss. Each member deals with their grief differently. Sometimes, this pushes them apart when they need each other most. The story centers around Colleen, a young woman struggling to cope with her brother’s death. She immerses herself in shallow pursuits and superficial relationships. As a result, she loses touch with her authentic self and the people who truly matter.
Colleen’s journey is one of shedding the emotional armor she’s been hiding behind. She must learn to embrace vulnerability. To move forward, she must accept herself, flaws and all. This means leaving behind the toxic social circle and fake facades she’s been clinging to. Her story reminds us of the lengths we might go to escape our pain. It also shows that the only path to healing is by facing our grief head-on.
Through Colleen’s experiences, I explore how the pressure to fit in and the fear of bullying can affect us at any age. This is particularly true for women navigating treacherous social landscapes. Her journey emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s values. This is crucial even when seeking validation from others.
As Colleen becomes increasingly disconnected from her family and emotions, she finds support in Kory. She is an understanding figure who helps her confront her suppressed pain. Kory acts as a catalyst for Colleen’s personal growth. She helps her understand that to move forward, Colleen must first face her long-avoided emotions.
Meanwhile, Mary Ann, Colleen’s mother, faces her own set of challenges. She works to keep the family together and preserve their century-old farm’s legacy. Cleaning out her son’s room forces Mary Ann to confront the painful reality of his absence. The room is filled with memories and reminders of his life. She must shift her focus from the past to the future. This is not only for herself but also for the sake of the land passed down through generations.
In contrast to Colleen’s journey, Mary Ann finds solace in the traditions and routines that have always defined their family. She seeks to maintain stability in a world turned upside down. Mary Ann draws strength from the unbreakable love they share and the power of family bonds.
As readers follow Colleen and Mary Ann’s journeys, Blooming Into Life celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. It also highlights the transformative power of love and connection. Through their stories, I aimed to create a heartwarming and inspiring narrative. I wanted to encourage readers to reflect on their own lives and relationships. No matter how challenging life may be, the strength of the human spirit is remarkable. The power of love and connection can transform us in unimaginable ways.
Ultimately, Blooming Into Life is a testament to the courage it takes to be authentically oneself. It also emphasizes the importance of cherishing the bonds that make life worth living.
The post Behind the Pages first appeared on Kristie Booker.
The post Behind the Pages appeared first on Kristie Booker.
