Colleen Houck's Blog, page 55
April 29, 2013
Dream Casting Kelsey, Ren and Kishan!
For those of you who just can't get enough of Ren (or Kishan), Colleen has created a Pinterest board dedicated to actors/models who might physically fit the part of your favorite guy! But, in case you haven't checked it out, I thought I'd bring some of my favorites (as well as yours) here for your pleasure. :-)
But before we mention the most recent winners for this month's contest, I thought I'd share the voted number one favorite Ren along with Colleen's favorite Kelsey and my favorite Kishan.
Ladies (and gentlemen), I give you Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan . . .
Ren
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(Ren)- Ruslaan Mumtaz
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Here's a few basic facts about this actor:
(Ren)- Ruslaan Mumtaz
Born: August 1982, age 30
Where: Mumbai, India
Height: 6 ft 0 in
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Career: actor and dancer
Kelsey
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(Kelsley)- Emma Roberts
Kishan
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(Kishan)- Saurabh Pandey
(Kishan)- Saurabh Pandey
Born: May 11th, age??
Where: New Delhi, India
Height: ?
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown
Career: actror, film and tv producer
Fun facts: fell in love with cinema at the age of nine when he watched Jurassic Park and was obsessed with dinosaur models. He made stop motion films with his dad's camera with his lego creations.
Let's start with the most recent winners for this month's contest!
Ladies, I give you April 2013 contest search winner for Ren is. . .
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Tyson Ballou!
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Facts about Tyson Ballou
Born: November 14, 1976, age 36
Where: Garland, Texas
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Career: Male model (ranked as number 1 on models.com top icons list)
Hobbies: Family oriented, loves basketball
Interesting facts: Tyson's father died when he was only nine years in a terrible car accident, making Tyson grow up faster than he might otherwise. He is very close to his mother and two brothers and is naturally very quiet and shy. He is allergic to cats but otherwise loves animals. In fact, he hates going to the zoo because he can't stand seeing animals locked up in cages (interesting indeed!!!!). He's currently single and is interested in finding a smart, down-to-earth, sweet girl who's willing to make the first move!
Here's some more gorgeous pics!
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OK, now it's time to wipe the drool from your chin and take a deep breath and let your heart rate come down a little. O.k., O.k., maybe I need to tell myself that. I'm sorry but isn't Tyson just gorgeous!! Well, it's time to move on and meet Kishan!
Ladies, I give you April 2013 contest search winner for Kishan is. . .
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Ruben Cortada
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Born: 1985, age 28
Where: Havana, Cuba
Height: 6 ft 2 1/4 in
Hair: Black
Eyes:Green
Career: Male model
Hobbies: tennis
Interesting facts: took college courses in computer studies. Very little information available on this gorgeous guy! Sorry ladies, don't even know if he's single. :-(
Here's some more pics!
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Just imagine those eyes are gold!
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Is it just me or does he look like he's thinking about stealing a kiss? Hmmmm.....
Well tiger fans, what do you think of April's Ren and Kishan winners? Are you team Ren or team Kishan? Let's hear what you have to say! Leave a comment and if you have an actor/model you think would be GREAT as May's Ren or Kishan search, please pass the name along!!
Till next time!
Linda Louise Lotti
But before we mention the most recent winners for this month's contest, I thought I'd share the voted number one favorite Ren along with Colleen's favorite Kelsey and my favorite Kishan.
Ladies (and gentlemen), I give you Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan . . .
Ren
[image error]
[image error]
(Ren)- Ruslaan Mumtaz
[image error]
Here's a few basic facts about this actor:
(Ren)- Ruslaan Mumtaz
Born: August 1982, age 30
Where: Mumbai, India
Height: 6 ft 0 in
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Career: actor and dancer
Kelsey
[image error]
(Kelsey)- Emma Roberts
Here's a few basic facts about this actor:
(Kelsley)- Emma Roberts
Born: February 10, 1991, age 22
Where: Rhinebeck, New York
Height: 5 ft 2 in
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Green
Career: actress, singer, and model
Fun facts: loves to collect purses, favorite candy is nerds, loves cheese pizza, pink hummers, favorite school subject is english, and loves dogs
Kishan
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[image error]
[image error]
(Kishan)- Saurabh Pandey
(Kishan)- Saurabh Pandey
Born: May 11th, age??
Where: New Delhi, India
Height: ?
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown
Career: actror, film and tv producer
Fun facts: fell in love with cinema at the age of nine when he watched Jurassic Park and was obsessed with dinosaur models. He made stop motion films with his dad's camera with his lego creations.
Let's start with the most recent winners for this month's contest!
Ladies, I give you April 2013 contest search winner for Ren is. . .
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Tyson Ballou!
[image error]
Facts about Tyson Ballou
Born: November 14, 1976, age 36
Where: Garland, Texas
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Career: Male model (ranked as number 1 on models.com top icons list)
Hobbies: Family oriented, loves basketball
Interesting facts: Tyson's father died when he was only nine years in a terrible car accident, making Tyson grow up faster than he might otherwise. He is very close to his mother and two brothers and is naturally very quiet and shy. He is allergic to cats but otherwise loves animals. In fact, he hates going to the zoo because he can't stand seeing animals locked up in cages (interesting indeed!!!!). He's currently single and is interested in finding a smart, down-to-earth, sweet girl who's willing to make the first move!
Here's some more gorgeous pics!
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
OK, now it's time to wipe the drool from your chin and take a deep breath and let your heart rate come down a little. O.k., O.k., maybe I need to tell myself that. I'm sorry but isn't Tyson just gorgeous!! Well, it's time to move on and meet Kishan!
Ladies, I give you April 2013 contest search winner for Kishan is. . .
[image error]
Ruben Cortada
[image error]
Born: 1985, age 28
Where: Havana, Cuba
Height: 6 ft 2 1/4 in
Hair: Black
Eyes:Green
Career: Male model
Hobbies: tennis
Interesting facts: took college courses in computer studies. Very little information available on this gorgeous guy! Sorry ladies, don't even know if he's single. :-(
Here's some more pics!
[image error]
Just imagine those eyes are gold!
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
Is it just me or does he look like he's thinking about stealing a kiss? Hmmmm.....
Well tiger fans, what do you think of April's Ren and Kishan winners? Are you team Ren or team Kishan? Let's hear what you have to say! Leave a comment and if you have an actor/model you think would be GREAT as May's Ren or Kishan search, please pass the name along!!
Till next time!
Linda Louise Lotti
April 23, 2013
A visit in time to the World Tree and it's Guardian from Tiger's Quest
Last month you might remember my post about what it might have been like to visit the village of Silvanae from Tiger's Quest. It was from chapter 17 where Kishan and Kelsey step into another world with sweet fairies that glow, silvered tree nymphs that hatch from trees, and let's not forget the many delicious delicacies to feast on! It was an enchanting place where they could find rest and nourishment. The way Colleen describes the village is so magical and delicious! She overwhelms the senses with color, tastes, smells, and well, let's admit it, romance! Another highly imaginative place Kelsey and Kishan travel to is the World Tree in search of the Divine Scarf and where they soon meet the Guardian!
I imagine that as they travel to the snow capped mountain tops they see something majestic like this.
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"We climbed between the twin peaks and gazed below... The clouds obscured the view. Wind broke up the clouds, and the valley appeared to be a dark forest. The trees were so tall they rose as high as the mountain. We descended into the valley. As we continued on, I was shocked to realize that what I was looking at was not a forest of trees at all-but the branches of one gigantic tree, a tree whose limbs stretched taller than the mountains."
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She further describes the forest as, "When we finally stepped onto the grassy valley floor, we trailed a giant branch back to the trunk. Because the sun could not penetrate the massive limbs overhead, it felt dark, cold, and still under the leafy roof. The wind blew through the large leaves, which slapped against the branches like stiff clothes on a line. Eerie, strange noises assaulted our ears. Creaking and moaning, the wind found ways to blow over and through the mighty limbs making it seem as if we were walking through a haunted forest..."
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I heard a flapping noise and saw a black raven settle on the ground near our camp."
Just imagine this tree below only 100 times bigger!
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"We chose the left side of the tree trunk and began walking. The trunk was so huge that I could barely see it curve in the distance...I was trailing my finger along the bark when the trunk moved...A section of the trunk about six feet wide began to move. Another segment above that shifted in the opposite direction...Wind swirled around us like deep bellows. A giant suction of air followed by a strong wind disturbed the short grass and caused prickly goose bumps to rise on my arms. Kishan looked up and froze, "Don't move Kelsey!... I slowly turned and looked into a giant, unblinking, horned eye. It was the guardian of the world tree! The giant snake was coiled around the tree, and the six-foot segments were the snake's body!"
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If I were to imagine a creepy snake, this would be it! Just imagine it six feet wide, ability to camouflage, and it's head as big as Ren's hummer! The eyes even look as though they are reflecting tree branches. But, in actuality, these eyes are like that normally. This is a new poisonous viper snake recently discovered. Only, I would add horns to this snake like the one depicted below.
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After the snake guardian converses with Kishan and Kelsey it decides to allow them passage. "The large snake swung its heavy body, and the great tree rumbled. The coils wrapped around the trunk moved, separating to reveal a secret passage into the trunk and a hidden stairway."
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Of course, these pictures don't give the story justice but it helps with the imagination a little. I'd love to hear some of your favorite scenes from the Tiger's series! Based on your responses, I will explore the top requested scene for next time. Stay tuned for a giveaway in the next few days!
Linda Louise Lotti
I imagine that as they travel to the snow capped mountain tops they see something majestic like this.
[image error]
"We climbed between the twin peaks and gazed below... The clouds obscured the view. Wind broke up the clouds, and the valley appeared to be a dark forest. The trees were so tall they rose as high as the mountain. We descended into the valley. As we continued on, I was shocked to realize that what I was looking at was not a forest of trees at all-but the branches of one gigantic tree, a tree whose limbs stretched taller than the mountains."
[image error]
She further describes the forest as, "When we finally stepped onto the grassy valley floor, we trailed a giant branch back to the trunk. Because the sun could not penetrate the massive limbs overhead, it felt dark, cold, and still under the leafy roof. The wind blew through the large leaves, which slapped against the branches like stiff clothes on a line. Eerie, strange noises assaulted our ears. Creaking and moaning, the wind found ways to blow over and through the mighty limbs making it seem as if we were walking through a haunted forest..."
[image error]
I heard a flapping noise and saw a black raven settle on the ground near our camp."
Just imagine this tree below only 100 times bigger!
[image error]
"We chose the left side of the tree trunk and began walking. The trunk was so huge that I could barely see it curve in the distance...I was trailing my finger along the bark when the trunk moved...A section of the trunk about six feet wide began to move. Another segment above that shifted in the opposite direction...Wind swirled around us like deep bellows. A giant suction of air followed by a strong wind disturbed the short grass and caused prickly goose bumps to rise on my arms. Kishan looked up and froze, "Don't move Kelsey!... I slowly turned and looked into a giant, unblinking, horned eye. It was the guardian of the world tree! The giant snake was coiled around the tree, and the six-foot segments were the snake's body!"
[image error]
If I were to imagine a creepy snake, this would be it! Just imagine it six feet wide, ability to camouflage, and it's head as big as Ren's hummer! The eyes even look as though they are reflecting tree branches. But, in actuality, these eyes are like that normally. This is a new poisonous viper snake recently discovered. Only, I would add horns to this snake like the one depicted below.
[image error]
After the snake guardian converses with Kishan and Kelsey it decides to allow them passage. "The large snake swung its heavy body, and the great tree rumbled. The coils wrapped around the trunk moved, separating to reveal a secret passage into the trunk and a hidden stairway."
[image error]
Of course, these pictures don't give the story justice but it helps with the imagination a little. I'd love to hear some of your favorite scenes from the Tiger's series! Based on your responses, I will explore the top requested scene for next time. Stay tuned for a giveaway in the next few days!
Linda Louise Lotti
April 22, 2013
Make It To Eat It: Rogan Josh
This post is a contributor post by Suki Lotti, blogger at one sneaky moose. Aside from blogging, she assists Colleen as Giveaway Manage, occasionally chimes in on Facebook, and any other role as requested.
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Before I begin, let me add a disclaimer that I am not an expert in anything. I'm a decent cook but I lack many skills still. Especially presentation so forgive the photos for not looking fantastic. :-)
Most of my exposure to Indian food has occurred in the past six years after being married. My husband loves ethnic foods. So do I. But one that I hadn't had much of was Indian food. I'm sure my parents fed me some at one point during my young years because they fed us a wide variety of foods. And whenever we learned about a country, we cooked at least one meal from that country. However, my first memory of Indian food was at my sister-in-law's house (Linda--you've met her right here on Colleen's blog). There was this one Indian restaurant that my husband and Linda's husband loved. They ordered take out one time and I only remember naan and lamb saag. But I tried a little bit of everything. My mouth was on fire within two bites. Maybe three. I'm sure I made it past one bite!
Since then I've been to other Indian restaurants and tasted a wide variety of Indian food. There was one restaurant where you could ask them to adjust the heat but we found that that also made the dish a little bland. At least at that restaurant. One thing was very clear to me. Indian food is full of flavor. And heat. But the flavor is amazing! If I could stand the heat.....
Rogan Josh is a curry dish from the Kashmir region. It is a popular dish in India and Pakistan (and I'm sure some other places around there). Rogan Josh means heated in oil. Again, something like that.... (reminder: Suki is not an expert.) You braise the meat in a sauce of yogurt and garlic and tons of spices that make your mouth water when the scent fills the air. Braising meat is just cooking the meat for a while in a sauce. So plan a few hours for this dish. I believe the dish is traditionally made with whole dried chilies that are de-seeded. Good thing I didn't see that recipe first or I would have run quickly away!
The recipe I followed is a paleo version so there are some non-traditional substitutions that you will see. For example, coconut milk instead of yogurt. (A paleo way of eat is typically grain-free, dairy-free, and processed sugar-free.) I found it in an e-cookbook I own but I was thrilled to find that it is also on the internet so I can share it with you. Click here for the recipe.
I used beef instead of lamb and it was still fantastic. I made a homemade blend of rogan josh because I wasn't sure if I wanted to buy the blend. I started this right after lunch and then just turned off the stove after it was done cooking until I needed to heat it up for dinner. Oh! Also, I used 1 1/2 lbs of beef but kept everything else the same.
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Before I start cooking, I like to gather up all of my ingredients. Yup, 11 spices! Full of flavor.
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Water, coconut milk, onion, coconut oil, beef. I'm so glad this part was simple because... 11 spices!!
[image error]
I really followed the recipe's advice and let the meat sit there and brown without touching it. It wasn't too difficult because I was also making the spice blend at the same time. I wasn't "watching the water boil"!
[image error]
Oh, that makes my nose tingle just by looking at the picture! Remember... 11 spices! That still just blows my mind since many recipes have 2 or 3. 5 is plentiful. So 11 is mind boggling. The aroma is superb. Actually, at this point, you will think the aroma is superb.
[image error]
Now THIS was the hard part. The two hour long simmer. (Followed by 1 1/2 hours resting before reheating it again for dinner.) The smell in my house was amazing! It drew my brother in who promptly tried to snitch some meat.
[image error]
The taste test. The moment when I finally get to taste 11 spices that has had time to get down and boogie with the meat. Trust me, guys. You should make this at least once!
[image error]
[image error]
We ate the rogan josh with rice and roasted cabbage. The sour cream was an after thought on account of the spiciness. Our poor taste buds just couldn't handle it!
There are four of us in this household. We all have one thing to say. HOLY SMOKE!!! No really, I thought I would turn into a dragon and begin to breath fire. We pulled out the milk to drink and the sour cream to help. BUT. We loved the flavor. We adored the flavor! We want to make this again. But dial back that cayenne pepper by at least half....
[image error]
Before I begin, let me add a disclaimer that I am not an expert in anything. I'm a decent cook but I lack many skills still. Especially presentation so forgive the photos for not looking fantastic. :-)
Most of my exposure to Indian food has occurred in the past six years after being married. My husband loves ethnic foods. So do I. But one that I hadn't had much of was Indian food. I'm sure my parents fed me some at one point during my young years because they fed us a wide variety of foods. And whenever we learned about a country, we cooked at least one meal from that country. However, my first memory of Indian food was at my sister-in-law's house (Linda--you've met her right here on Colleen's blog). There was this one Indian restaurant that my husband and Linda's husband loved. They ordered take out one time and I only remember naan and lamb saag. But I tried a little bit of everything. My mouth was on fire within two bites. Maybe three. I'm sure I made it past one bite!
Since then I've been to other Indian restaurants and tasted a wide variety of Indian food. There was one restaurant where you could ask them to adjust the heat but we found that that also made the dish a little bland. At least at that restaurant. One thing was very clear to me. Indian food is full of flavor. And heat. But the flavor is amazing! If I could stand the heat.....
Rogan Josh is a curry dish from the Kashmir region. It is a popular dish in India and Pakistan (and I'm sure some other places around there). Rogan Josh means heated in oil. Again, something like that.... (reminder: Suki is not an expert.) You braise the meat in a sauce of yogurt and garlic and tons of spices that make your mouth water when the scent fills the air. Braising meat is just cooking the meat for a while in a sauce. So plan a few hours for this dish. I believe the dish is traditionally made with whole dried chilies that are de-seeded. Good thing I didn't see that recipe first or I would have run quickly away!
The recipe I followed is a paleo version so there are some non-traditional substitutions that you will see. For example, coconut milk instead of yogurt. (A paleo way of eat is typically grain-free, dairy-free, and processed sugar-free.) I found it in an e-cookbook I own but I was thrilled to find that it is also on the internet so I can share it with you. Click here for the recipe.
I used beef instead of lamb and it was still fantastic. I made a homemade blend of rogan josh because I wasn't sure if I wanted to buy the blend. I started this right after lunch and then just turned off the stove after it was done cooking until I needed to heat it up for dinner. Oh! Also, I used 1 1/2 lbs of beef but kept everything else the same.
[image error]
Before I start cooking, I like to gather up all of my ingredients. Yup, 11 spices! Full of flavor.
[image error]
Water, coconut milk, onion, coconut oil, beef. I'm so glad this part was simple because... 11 spices!!
[image error]
I really followed the recipe's advice and let the meat sit there and brown without touching it. It wasn't too difficult because I was also making the spice blend at the same time. I wasn't "watching the water boil"!
[image error]
Oh, that makes my nose tingle just by looking at the picture! Remember... 11 spices! That still just blows my mind since many recipes have 2 or 3. 5 is plentiful. So 11 is mind boggling. The aroma is superb. Actually, at this point, you will think the aroma is superb.
[image error]
Now THIS was the hard part. The two hour long simmer. (Followed by 1 1/2 hours resting before reheating it again for dinner.) The smell in my house was amazing! It drew my brother in who promptly tried to snitch some meat.
[image error]
The taste test. The moment when I finally get to taste 11 spices that has had time to get down and boogie with the meat. Trust me, guys. You should make this at least once!
[image error]
[image error]
We ate the rogan josh with rice and roasted cabbage. The sour cream was an after thought on account of the spiciness. Our poor taste buds just couldn't handle it!
There are four of us in this household. We all have one thing to say. HOLY SMOKE!!! No really, I thought I would turn into a dragon and begin to breath fire. We pulled out the milk to drink and the sour cream to help. BUT. We loved the flavor. We adored the flavor! We want to make this again. But dial back that cayenne pepper by at least half....
April 13, 2013
Tips on how to throw a Tiger's Curse party!
This post is for those fans who have been asking Colleen for ideas on how to host a Tiger's Series party! So, depending on the age of your party, whether your Team Ren or Team Kishan, or what aspect of the book you'd like to celebrate (the tigers, the circus, the dragons, the village of Silvanae where the tree nymphs and fairies live, etc.) the possibilities are endless!!! Let's start with some basic decorating ideas for Tiger's theme
(Be sure to check out Colleen Houck's pinterest page where you can follow her "Tiger Party" board for lots of fun ideas.);
Colors- white, black, and grey. Perhaps a touch of cobalt blue or gold to match Ren and Kishan's eyes. ;-)
Location- Anywhere could work. One option is if you could set up outside, perhaps on a back yard patio or near a garden. I could just imagine a white table cloth with fragrant flower centerpieces (perhaps even lotus flowers floating in water) place cards in blue or gold (Team Ren or Team Kishan), it's night and white lights or lanterns have been set up creating a soft and inviting ambiance. If you have a water feature or a nature cd with the sound of a waterfall that could totally be a reminder of that waterfall scene we all love. :-)
Decorations- Really, the sky's the limit here. Anything from balloons and streamers to tiger pillows and stuffed animals to flowers and lanterns. I would recommend picking one focal point (Ren tiger, Kishan tiger, dragons, Kelsey, etc. ) and build off of it. Here are some pics to get your creative juices flowing;
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[image error] (mason jars with tissue paper = colored lights. Beautiful!!)
[image error] (These tissue pom poms are easy to make and very cheap! Buy them in larger packs at Target for a better deal. Just pick colors to match the theme.)
(Saw these fondant frosting kits at Walmart)
Menu ideas could be a lot of fun as well. In my earlier post I talked about the Village of Silvanae from book 2, Tiger's Quest, and listed the delicious menu both Kelsey and Kishan delighted in. There are many meals Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan enjoyed at the hand of the golden fruit and that could be really fun and tasty! Then there's the famous chocolate peanut butter surprise cookies that Ren is head over heels for. You can find that recipe on Colleen Houck's pinterest page under "cookie corner" also. Again, the possibilities are endless!!
I would love to hear about your Tiger's themed parties and your ideas too. If you have a party and want to share with other Tiger fans, please send me an email with pictures and I will post those for everyone to enjoy!
Colors- white, black, and grey. Perhaps a touch of cobalt blue or gold to match Ren and Kishan's eyes. ;-)
Location- Anywhere could work. One option is if you could set up outside, perhaps on a back yard patio or near a garden. I could just imagine a white table cloth with fragrant flower centerpieces (perhaps even lotus flowers floating in water) place cards in blue or gold (Team Ren or Team Kishan), it's night and white lights or lanterns have been set up creating a soft and inviting ambiance. If you have a water feature or a nature cd with the sound of a waterfall that could totally be a reminder of that waterfall scene we all love. :-)
Decorations- Really, the sky's the limit here. Anything from balloons and streamers to tiger pillows and stuffed animals to flowers and lanterns. I would recommend picking one focal point (Ren tiger, Kishan tiger, dragons, Kelsey, etc. ) and build off of it. Here are some pics to get your creative juices flowing;
[image error]
[image error]
[image error] [image error]
[image error] [image error]
[image error] (mason jars with tissue paper = colored lights. Beautiful!!)
[image error] (These tissue pom poms are easy to make and very cheap! Buy them in larger packs at Target for a better deal. Just pick colors to match the theme.)
(Saw these fondant frosting kits at Walmart)
Menu ideas could be a lot of fun as well. In my earlier post I talked about the Village of Silvanae from book 2, Tiger's Quest, and listed the delicious menu both Kelsey and Kishan delighted in. There are many meals Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan enjoyed at the hand of the golden fruit and that could be really fun and tasty! Then there's the famous chocolate peanut butter surprise cookies that Ren is head over heels for. You can find that recipe on Colleen Houck's pinterest page under "cookie corner" also. Again, the possibilities are endless!!
I would love to hear about your Tiger's themed parties and your ideas too. If you have a party and want to share with other Tiger fans, please send me an email with pictures and I will post those for everyone to enjoy!
April 4, 2013
YA Scavenger Hunt Extra Post
Wait a minute...weren't you just here? Yes. You were. Sorry about the confusion but we are missing a blog post and I am filling in until we get it fixed. Relax. You are in the right place so keep reading. =)
Hello and Welcome to the 6th YA Scavenger Hunt!
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Hello! I am Colleen Houck, your hostess for this leg of the hunt. In case you are confused this blog is a temporary substitute for Kate Evangelista's which we can't find for some reason. Read on to see Jessica Spotswood's bonus material!
I do most of my shopping online. My hair is a little stripey. And I have 29 nieces and nephews with one more on the way. Currently, I am fiercely competing for aunt of the year.
Did somebody mention...an award of some kind?
On this hunt, you not only get access to exclusive content from each participating YA author, you also get a secret number. Add up the numbers, and enter it for a chance to win a major prize--one lucky winner will receive at least one signed book from each author on my team in the hunt! But play fast: this contest (and all the exclusive bonus material) will only be online until noon PST on Sunday, April 7th!
You can start right here or you can also go to the YA Scavenger Hunt homepage to find out all about the hunt. There are TWO contests going on simultaneously, and you can enter one or both! I am a part of the BLUE TEAM--but there is also a red team and if you do the red hunt too you'll have a chance to win a whole different set of signed books!
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If you'd like to find out more about the hunt, see links to all the authors participating, see the full list of prizes up for grabs, or if you get lost along the way, go to the YA Scavenger Hunt homepage.
Looking for my exclusive bonus content? You'll have to keep searching. Somewhere on this blog hop, I've hidden an alternate ending for Tiger's Destiny where you'll get to see Ren and Kelsey as parents! Shocking reveals are just around the corner. Before you go on though, check out the amazing author I'm hosting. But, first, a few rules.
SCAVENGER HUNT PUZZLE
Directions: Below, you'll notice that I've listed my favorite number. Collect the favorite numbers of all the authors on the blue team, and then add them up (don't worry, you can use a calculator!). Hint: the secret number is highlighted in BLUE.
Entry Form: Once you've added up all the numbers, make sure you fill out the form here to officially qualify for the grand prize. Only entries that have the correct number will qualify.
Rules: Open internationally. Anyone below the age of 18 should have a parent or guardian's permission to enter. To be eligible for the grand prize, you must submit the completed entry form by April 7th, at noon Pacific Time. Entries sent without the correct number or without contact information will not be considered.
Now that all the technical stuff is out of the way, I'll introduce the author I am hosting on this hunt.
I am super excited to be hosting...
JESSICA SPOTSWOOD
Jessica's Bio: Jessica Spotswood is the author of the Cahill Witch Chronicles: BORN WICKED (2012), STAR CURSED (June 2013), and untitled book 3 (summer 2014). She grew up in a tiny, one-stoplight town in Pennsylvania, where she could be found swimming, playing clarinet, memorizing lines for the school play, or - most often - with her nose in a book. Now Jess lives in Washington, DC with her playwright husband and a cuddly cat named Monkey. She can be found doing yoga, teaching writing workshops for teens, or - most often - with her nose in a book. Some things never change.
The book she's showcasing on the Spring 2013 Hunt is....
STAR CURSED
This cover is beautiful! Here is some info about STAR CURSED.
With the Brotherhood persecuting witches like never before, a divided Sisterhood desperately needs Cate to come into her Prophesied powers. And after Cate's friend Sachi is arrested for using magic, a war-thirsty Sister offers to help her find answers—if Cate is willing to endanger everyone she loves.
Cate doesn't want to be a weapon, and she doesn't want to involve her friends and Finn in the Sisterhood's schemes. But when Maura and Tess join the Sisterhood, Maura makes it clear that she'll do whatever it takes to lead the witches to victory. Even if it means sacrifices. Even if it means overthrowing Cate. Even if it means all-out war.
For more on this book or to check out Jessica's other books, check out her website.
The first time I tried counting the stars on the book I lost track at 11 and had to start over.
Now for Jessica's top secret bonus material. Are you excited? Cause I am!
________________________________________
Meet four new characters who will become important to Cate, Maura, and Tess during STAR CURSED and Cahill Book 3!
Name: Alice Auclair
Age: 16
Affinity: illusions, mind-magic
Likes: pretty things, new dresses, power, rolling her eyes
Dislikes: poor people, the Brothers, Cate
Family: Her father lives in New London & provides pretty dresses.
Secret: Alice made a mistake with mind-magic that haunts her. Also, she does have a heart in there somewhere.
Relationship to Cate: nemesis
Celebrity lookalike: AnnaSophia Robb
Name: Mei Zhang
Age: 16
Affinity: healing
Likes: chess, helping others
Dislikes: being the only Indo-Chinese girl at the convent
Family: Her father is a tailor in the market district & her mother looks after Mei's 5 younger brothers & sisters & takes in sewing to help make ends meet.
Secret: Mei would rather be a nurse than a Sister or wife to one of her parents' friends' sons.
Relationship to Cate: trusted friend
Celebrity lookalike: a younger Kim So Eun
Name: Marilla (Rilla) Stephenson
Age: 16
Affinity: illusions
Likes: romance novels, the color yellow, maple candies
Dislikes: being teased about her freckles; unkindness
Family: Rilla hails from a maple syrup farm in VT & has 4 younger brothers.
Secret: Rilla wants to find true love more than anything. Also, smarter than she may originally seem.
Relationship to Cate: roommate
Celebrity lookalike: Stefania Owen (with bobbed hair)
Name: Violet van Buren
Age: 15
Affinity: animation
Likes: the color violet, animals, being popular
Dislikes: being poor
Family: Her father Robert is the Sisters' coachman.
Secret: Vi can't sleep without her tattered stuffed bunny rabbit.
Relationship to Cate: assistant nemesis; giggler in chief for Alice's "witty" remarks
Celebrity lookalike: a young Zooey Deschanel
_________________________________________________
I love bonus material! =)
If you think this series is just what you've been looking for, you can buy your copies on Indie Bound.
Now it's time to move to the next blog on the hunt. Head on over to Beth Revis' blog and see what's next!
Welcome to the Spring 2013 YA Scavenger Hunt!
Hello and Welcome to the 6th YA Scavenger Hunt!
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Hello! I am Colleen Houck, your hostess for this leg of the hunt.
I do most of my shopping online. My hair is a little stripey. And I have 29 nieces and nephews with one more on the way. Currently, I am fiercely competing for aunt of the year.
Did somebody mention...an award of some kind?
On this hunt, you not only get access to exclusive content from each participating YA author, you also get a secret number. Add up the numbers, and enter it for a chance to win a major prize--one lucky winner will receive at least one signed book from each author on my team in the hunt! But play fast: this contest (and all the exclusive bonus material) will only be online until noon PST on Sunday, April 7th!
You can start right here or you can also go to the YA Scavenger Hunt homepage to find out all about the hunt. There are TWO contests going on simultaneously, and you can enter one or both! I am a part of the BLUE TEAM--but there is also a red team and if you do the red hunt too you'll have a chance to win a whole different set of signed books!
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If you'd like to find out more about the hunt, see links to all the authors participating, see the full list of prizes up for grabs, or if you get lost along the way, go to the YA Scavenger Hunt homepage.
Looking for my exclusive bonus content? You'll have to keep searching. Somewhere on this blog hop, I've hidden an alternate ending for Tiger's Destiny where you'll get to see Ren and Kelsey as parents! Shocking reveals are just around the corner. Before you go on though, check out the amazing author I'm hosting. But, first, a few rules.
SCAVENGER HUNT PUZZLE
Directions: Below, you'll notice that I've listed my favorite number. Collect the favorite numbers of all the authors on the blue team, and then add them up (don't worry, you can use a calculator!). Hint: the secret number is highlighted in BLUE.
Entry Form: Once you've added up all the numbers, make sure you fill out the form here to officially qualify for the grand prize. Only entries that have the correct number will qualify.
Rules: Open internationally. Anyone below the age of 18 should have a parent or guardian's permission to enter. To be eligible for the grand prize, you must submit the completed entry form by April 7th, at noon Pacific Time. Entries sent without the correct number or without contact information will not be considered.
Now that all the technical stuff is out of the way, I'll introduce the author I am hosting on this hunt.
I am super excited to be hosting...
AMBER ARGYLE
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Amber's Bio: I am the author of Witch Song and its sequel, Witch Born. I have two books coming out in 2013-Witch Fall, a prequel for the Witch Song series, and Winter Queen, the first book in the Fairy Queen trilogy. I run because I like to eat chocolate and fit in my jeans. I have a thing for vintage inspired clothes. Also, I can't fathom why people eat tootsie rolls.
The book she's showcasing on the Spring 2013 Hunt is....
WITCH BORN
Book 2 in the Witch Song Series!
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Isn't this cover beautiful?! Here is some info about WITCH BORN.
Brusenna is truly beginning to understand the burden each Witch born must bear-the power searing inside her is bright enough to save the world, but she just might burn herself out.
I am putting the first book in the series here too in case you are interested in starting at the beginning. For more on this series or to check out Amber's other books, check out her website.
I was looking at Amber's website recently and it appears as if she's got six books either completed or in the works. I wonder then what her 7 th will be?
Now for Amber's top secret bonus material, the first chapter of her next book! Are you excited? Cause I am!
Witch Fall
Chapter 1 (draft)
Li pointed her hands above her head and leapt off the boulder into the pool at the base of the waterfall. She sliced through the cool water, kicking until she reached the rocky bottom. There she paused. Everything looked different down here. The water caught the sharp sunlight, bending it into slanting shafts of turquoise. The faces of the other girls on shore were wavering and insubstantial—as if they were mere reflections instead of flesh and blood. It was like looking at the outside world through a mirror.
But which side was real and which was the reflection?
Li wished she didn’t have to go back. That she could stretch this moment beneath the cool water forever. But her lungs began to ache for air. Closing her eyes, she sent a silent prayer to the Sun God that she could somehow escape her fate. Toes pushing off the rocks, she swam upward. She broke the surface and took a gasping breath.
“Come on, Li! Everyone else is nearly finished and we haven’t even started on your hair yet. The wedding feast will start soon.” The water had turned Pan’s normally dark frizz into gorgeous curls.
Li’s bare legs flashed pale as she stepped out of the pool and climbed up the rocky bank. She pulled one of Pan’s curls, a sad smile gracing her lips as it sprang back up. “I’ll never get to come swimming with you anymore.”
Pan’s looked away. “Is it so bad, marrying my father?”
Words tripped up Li's throat before becoming a jumbled mess in her mouth. Instead of answering, she finally gave into the inevitable and pulled her gorgeous wedding robes over her damp skin.
_________________________________________________
I love bonus material! =)
If you think this series is just what you've been looking for, you can buy your copies on Amazon.
________________________________________________________
Thank you so much for visiting the TIGER'S CURSE SERIES website! While you're here don't forget to enter the bonus contest I am running exclusively during the YA Scavenger Hunt.
I will be giving away ten copies of the first book in my series, TIGER'S CURSE, as well as a grand prize collector's edition set of all my books. This prize pack is something you don't want to miss out on. To be eligible to win, enter on the rafflecopter below.
For an extra bonus entry, leave a comment on this blog and answer the following: When it comes to romance, do you prefer a good guy or a bad boy and why?
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____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Ready to move on to the next link in the hunt?
LINK TO NEXT BLOG
March 28, 2013
Winner Announced: Time Travel
I loved all the responses to our question "If you could go back to any moment in Tiger's Curse, Tiger's Quest, or Tiger's Voyage, what moment would that be and what would you choose to tell Kelsey?" Anybody ever wonder if your words would have made a difference to our Tiger story?
Our winner is WhiteAndBlackTiger who said:
WhiteAndBlackTiger, you have until Saturday to email me at contests@colleenhouck.com.
I also wanted to thank everyone who took the time to answer my bonus question. I'm pleased that my ideas were echoed in many of yours. We love Colleen's fans and we love being able to thank you by offering giveaways.
Your next chance to win something is during the Young Adult Scavenger Hunt that begins next week. Your calendars are already marked, right?
Our winner is WhiteAndBlackTiger who said:
The time where I really wanted to just scream at Kelsey was in Tiger's Destiny. When Kelsey was with the phoenix and it made her walk the path of flames, she burned in pain because she wasn't admitting her true feelings to herself. If I was there, I would've told her: " Just admit to yourself who you know truly will make you happy, Why aren't you with the one who you really want to be with and who happens to want you too. How come you're not speaking and living up to your true heart? You're not admitting your true feelings and what's on your mind. Even if admitting it might hurt Kishan in the end you should know that he would never be upset as long as he knows that you are happy and safe. And if you don't admit/speak what's in your heart, you'll end up hurting kishan for lying about only wanting him, you'll hurt Ren because you refuse to acknowledge his feelings for you and your feelings for him and most of all, you would hurt yourself because although you want to be happy with Kishan, you're not actually happy because you're not with the man you truly want and would be happy with. Don't let the fear of Ren leaving you stop you from being him because you know that he would literally die for you. Or the fear that Ren will die protecting you scare you either. Don't let death stop you from being with someone. That's in the future and this is the present. if you ruin your life now what's it worth later?" that's what I would tell Kelsey."
WhiteAndBlackTiger, you have until Saturday to email me at contests@colleenhouck.com.
I also wanted to thank everyone who took the time to answer my bonus question. I'm pleased that my ideas were echoed in many of yours. We love Colleen's fans and we love being able to thank you by offering giveaways.
Your next chance to win something is during the Young Adult Scavenger Hunt that begins next week. Your calendars are already marked, right?
March 25, 2013
Spice of the month...Lavender!
Mr. Kadam is more than just a care taker, planner, businessman, investor, guide, and dear friend in the Tiger series, he is also a man of wisdom, character, and mystery. But, did you know one of his many hidden hobbies is cooking? He loves spices and herbs from all over the world and tries to find new flavors by combining spices in different recipes.
For this month, I'd like to focus on the herb LAVENDER.
This fragrant flower has both medicinal and culinary uses as well as soaps, oils and perfumes. It is one of the most versatile and potent spices Mr. Kadam would most certainly love to experiment with.
Before I share some recipes sure to send Mr. Kadam's taste buds for a ride, let us first learn about the flower. After all, Mr. Kadam is always thorough in his studies of the herbs and spices he uses. :-)
The name lavender is Latin from the word "lavare" which means, to wash. It is primarily produced and used for extracting its oil. Lavender yields an essential oil with sweet overtones and is particularly beneficial for it's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, lavender oil is used to treat many ailments such as anxiety, insomnia, depression, sooth insect bites and burns, and help with headache/migraine pain. It is also used to treat dry scalps and as a skin soother.
[image error]
Lavender is also used in lotions, soaps, perfumes, and cosmetics. Mr. Kadam might have even dabbled in soap making using different herbs and very likely knows of Kelsey's fondness for the sweet smelling soaps.
[image error]
Lavender has many uses, but the one I'd like to focus on is it's culinary uses. Lavender lends a slightly sweet and mild floral flavor to dishes.
[image error]
Some of the spices most complimentary with lavender are:
1. Mint
Pair lavender with mint to add a subtle hint of fragrant sweetness to tea, ice cream and sugar glazes. Mint has enough bite of its own to stand up to lavender's strong flavor, but use lavender petals and flowers to avoid introducing a medicinal or soapy flavor to your desserts.
2. Rosemary
Lavender and rosemary share a family lineage that also includes mint and lemon balm. They also pair well in savory dishes, especially with lamb, poultry and potatoes. Drop a few sprigs of rosemary and a small spoonful of lavender flowers into the water when you boil potatoes to add an earthy, smoky flavor.
3. Fennel
[image error]
Herbes de Provence, the classic French blend of dried Mediterranean herbs, usually includes fennel seeds and lavender leaves and blossoms, along with marjoram, sage, savory and thyme. Sprinkle the fennel and lavender over charcoal on the grill to add a pungent note to smoked ribs and poultry, or wrap sprigs of lavender and fennel together to skewer scallops or shrimp for grilling. YUM!
4. Cinnamon
Bury a sprig or two of lavender and a cinnamon stick in a cup of sugar and keep it covered in a jar. Use the cinnamon-lavender infused sugar in tea, on toast, or in place of sugar in shortbread and sugar cookie recipes. The flavor of lavender is a haunting undertone that accentuates the spiciness of the cinnamon!
5. Clove
The subtle astringency of lavender blends well with the strident spice flavor of cloves. Add a sprinkle of dried lavender buds to cider along with dried cloves and your favorite mulling spices for a distinctive autumn or winter holiday treat.
OK, now that you have a good basis for this floral and mildly sweet herb, let's try out some recipes. Below are some recipes sure to get your mouth watering!
************************************************************************************************************
Lavender-Laced Grilled Salmon
[image error]
First, cut an extra bunch of flowering lavender and put the stalks in a glass of water from 45 minutes to two hours. The soaked herbs can be strewn on the coals of the grill as the salmon cooks and the resulting smoke lends a faint camphor and pine flavor to the cooking salmon.
Ingredients:
2-4 large cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. fresh lavender buds
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tbs. honey
3 tbs. fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tbs. sesame oil
4 salmon filets
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl to create the marinade.
Add the salmon filets to the bowl, cover, and let marinate for 30 minutes or longer.
Fire up the barbeque grill and place filets (skin facing down) on the grill. Cook for 8-12 minutes, basting frequently with the marinade. Then, turn over once and allow to cook for another minute or two to allow the flesh to turn opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve over a bed of rice pilaf and enjoy!
Lavender Lemonade
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What better way to serve guests a beautiful refreshment than lavender lemonade in the warm summer days of India (or anywhere for that matter)! Plus, it's just so pretty to look at!
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar
5 sprigs lavender (stems and buds), plus additional for garnish if desired
2 cups fresh lemon juice (from about ten lemons)
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (from about 4 limes)
Directions:
In a large sauce pan, bring one gallon of water and sugar to a boil. Remove from heat, add lavender sprigs, lemon and lime juices. Cool to room temperature, strain and chill. Serve on ice, with additional lavender as garnish.
Lavender Lemonade Recipe #2
Ingredients:
2 Tbs. dried lavender (make sure it's for culinary use)
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/2 cups water
3 lemons, juiced
2 cups water
Directions:
Bring 2 1/2 cups water, sugar, and lavender to a boil in a medium pot. Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for one hour. Strain out the lavender, add the additional 2 cups water and lemon juice. Chill until ready to serve. Serve with ice.
Almond Lavender Cake
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This eye-catching, moist cake has a terrific buttery texture and a lovely essence of lavender flavor. It's a top notch example of a great lavender recipe.
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar, divided
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1 Tbs plus 1 tsp. dried lavender flowers, divided
1 cup butter, softened
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup half-and-half cream
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
4 tsp. boiling water
Directions:
Grease a 10 inch fluted tube pan and sprinkle with sugar; set aside.
Place 1/2 cup sugar, almonds and 1 Tbs. lavender in food processor; cover and process until finely ground.
In a large bowl, cream butter and remaining sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in almond/lavender mixture until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, beat in vanilla.
In a small bowl, combine sour cream and half-and-half. Separately combine the dry ingredients (flour, soda, salt). Then, add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately, beating well after each addition. Then add mixture to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
Pour into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.
For drizzle:
Lavender infusion: Measure 2 Tbs. lavender buds for each cup boiling liquid (usually water but can be milk as well). Steep for 30 minutes. Strain liquid.
In another bowl, combine confectioner's sugar and enough infused water to achieve desired consistency; drizzle over cake. Garnish with additional lavender if desired. Yield's 12 servings.
**Lavender infusion can be used to flavor lemonade, ice tea, cakes, cookies, and sorbets. A lavender milk or cream infusion can be used to make Lavender Creme Brulee, Lavender Ice Cream, Lavender Cheese Cake, Lavender Scones, and more.
Lavender Shortbread cookies
This is a lovely shortbread recipe with a sweet hint of lavender fragrance and flavor. Perfect to serve with afternoon tea!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp. dried lavender
zest of one lemon
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
course sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
Directions:
In a food processor, pulse powdered sugar, lavender and lemon zest until well incorporated. Add softened butter and cream with the sugar. Add flour and salt. Mix just to combine. Remove dough and place on parchment paper or waxed paper and gently form dough into 8 inch log (dough will be sticky). Chill for 4 hours or up to a few days. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice chilled dough into 1/4 inch slices on lined cookie sheets. Roll, or sprinkle course sugar onto cookie and bake 13-15 minutes (just until bottom edges start to brown). Remove from oven and cool completely.�
-->
For this month, I'd like to focus on the herb LAVENDER.
This fragrant flower has both medicinal and culinary uses as well as soaps, oils and perfumes. It is one of the most versatile and potent spices Mr. Kadam would most certainly love to experiment with.
Before I share some recipes sure to send Mr. Kadam's taste buds for a ride, let us first learn about the flower. After all, Mr. Kadam is always thorough in his studies of the herbs and spices he uses. :-)
The name lavender is Latin from the word "lavare" which means, to wash. It is primarily produced and used for extracting its oil. Lavender yields an essential oil with sweet overtones and is particularly beneficial for it's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, lavender oil is used to treat many ailments such as anxiety, insomnia, depression, sooth insect bites and burns, and help with headache/migraine pain. It is also used to treat dry scalps and as a skin soother.
[image error]
Lavender is also used in lotions, soaps, perfumes, and cosmetics. Mr. Kadam might have even dabbled in soap making using different herbs and very likely knows of Kelsey's fondness for the sweet smelling soaps.
[image error]
Lavender has many uses, but the one I'd like to focus on is it's culinary uses. Lavender lends a slightly sweet and mild floral flavor to dishes.
[image error]
Some of the spices most complimentary with lavender are:
1. Mint
Pair lavender with mint to add a subtle hint of fragrant sweetness to tea, ice cream and sugar glazes. Mint has enough bite of its own to stand up to lavender's strong flavor, but use lavender petals and flowers to avoid introducing a medicinal or soapy flavor to your desserts.
2. Rosemary
Lavender and rosemary share a family lineage that also includes mint and lemon balm. They also pair well in savory dishes, especially with lamb, poultry and potatoes. Drop a few sprigs of rosemary and a small spoonful of lavender flowers into the water when you boil potatoes to add an earthy, smoky flavor.
3. Fennel
[image error]Herbes de Provence, the classic French blend of dried Mediterranean herbs, usually includes fennel seeds and lavender leaves and blossoms, along with marjoram, sage, savory and thyme. Sprinkle the fennel and lavender over charcoal on the grill to add a pungent note to smoked ribs and poultry, or wrap sprigs of lavender and fennel together to skewer scallops or shrimp for grilling. YUM!
4. Cinnamon
Bury a sprig or two of lavender and a cinnamon stick in a cup of sugar and keep it covered in a jar. Use the cinnamon-lavender infused sugar in tea, on toast, or in place of sugar in shortbread and sugar cookie recipes. The flavor of lavender is a haunting undertone that accentuates the spiciness of the cinnamon!
5. Clove
The subtle astringency of lavender blends well with the strident spice flavor of cloves. Add a sprinkle of dried lavender buds to cider along with dried cloves and your favorite mulling spices for a distinctive autumn or winter holiday treat.
OK, now that you have a good basis for this floral and mildly sweet herb, let's try out some recipes. Below are some recipes sure to get your mouth watering!
************************************************************************************************************
Lavender-Laced Grilled Salmon
[image error]
First, cut an extra bunch of flowering lavender and put the stalks in a glass of water from 45 minutes to two hours. The soaked herbs can be strewn on the coals of the grill as the salmon cooks and the resulting smoke lends a faint camphor and pine flavor to the cooking salmon.
Ingredients:
2-4 large cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. fresh lavender buds
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tbs. honey
3 tbs. fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tbs. sesame oil
4 salmon filets
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl to create the marinade.
Add the salmon filets to the bowl, cover, and let marinate for 30 minutes or longer.
Fire up the barbeque grill and place filets (skin facing down) on the grill. Cook for 8-12 minutes, basting frequently with the marinade. Then, turn over once and allow to cook for another minute or two to allow the flesh to turn opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve over a bed of rice pilaf and enjoy!
Lavender Lemonade
[image error]What better way to serve guests a beautiful refreshment than lavender lemonade in the warm summer days of India (or anywhere for that matter)! Plus, it's just so pretty to look at!
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar
5 sprigs lavender (stems and buds), plus additional for garnish if desired
2 cups fresh lemon juice (from about ten lemons)
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (from about 4 limes)
Directions:
In a large sauce pan, bring one gallon of water and sugar to a boil. Remove from heat, add lavender sprigs, lemon and lime juices. Cool to room temperature, strain and chill. Serve on ice, with additional lavender as garnish.
Lavender Lemonade Recipe #2
Ingredients:
2 Tbs. dried lavender (make sure it's for culinary use)
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/2 cups water
3 lemons, juiced
2 cups water
Directions:
Bring 2 1/2 cups water, sugar, and lavender to a boil in a medium pot. Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for one hour. Strain out the lavender, add the additional 2 cups water and lemon juice. Chill until ready to serve. Serve with ice.
Almond Lavender Cake
[image error]
This eye-catching, moist cake has a terrific buttery texture and a lovely essence of lavender flavor. It's a top notch example of a great lavender recipe.
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar, divided
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1 Tbs plus 1 tsp. dried lavender flowers, divided
1 cup butter, softened
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup half-and-half cream
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
4 tsp. boiling water
Directions:
Grease a 10 inch fluted tube pan and sprinkle with sugar; set aside.
Place 1/2 cup sugar, almonds and 1 Tbs. lavender in food processor; cover and process until finely ground.
In a large bowl, cream butter and remaining sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in almond/lavender mixture until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, beat in vanilla.
In a small bowl, combine sour cream and half-and-half. Separately combine the dry ingredients (flour, soda, salt). Then, add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately, beating well after each addition. Then add mixture to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
Pour into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.
For drizzle:
Lavender infusion: Measure 2 Tbs. lavender buds for each cup boiling liquid (usually water but can be milk as well). Steep for 30 minutes. Strain liquid.
In another bowl, combine confectioner's sugar and enough infused water to achieve desired consistency; drizzle over cake. Garnish with additional lavender if desired. Yield's 12 servings.
**Lavender infusion can be used to flavor lemonade, ice tea, cakes, cookies, and sorbets. A lavender milk or cream infusion can be used to make Lavender Creme Brulee, Lavender Ice Cream, Lavender Cheese Cake, Lavender Scones, and more.
Lavender Shortbread cookies
This is a lovely shortbread recipe with a sweet hint of lavender fragrance and flavor. Perfect to serve with afternoon tea!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp. dried lavender
zest of one lemon
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
course sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
Directions:
In a food processor, pulse powdered sugar, lavender and lemon zest until well incorporated. Add softened butter and cream with the sugar. Add flour and salt. Mix just to combine. Remove dough and place on parchment paper or waxed paper and gently form dough into 8 inch log (dough will be sticky). Chill for 4 hours or up to a few days. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice chilled dough into 1/4 inch slices on lined cookie sheets. Roll, or sprinkle course sugar onto cookie and bake 13-15 minutes (just until bottom edges start to brown). Remove from oven and cool completely.�
-->
March 21, 2013
Author Reveal for Spring YA Scavenger Hunt 2013
Hi Everyone,
Here is the much anticipated author reveal for the upcoming Spring YA Scavenger Hunt 2013! I am on the blue team again. You all know how I love blue. =) The hunt starts on Thursday April 4th at noon pacific time and ends on Sunday April 7th also at noon pacific. Along with the grand prizes which include a book from every author on the team, I will be giving away not only a collector's edition boxed set of books, but also ten copies of Tiger's Curse. I haven't quite decided what the bonus material will be this time but I'm leaning towards a deleted chapter from Destiny. I'm also considering an alternate ending to Destiny AND I may just throw in a tiny sample from the new Egyptian book I'm writing with maybe an inspiring picture or two. All things considered, you won't want to miss out on this hunt.
I'll be showcasing Tiger's Quest the paperback on this hunt which will be released the first week of May 2013. This version will include the much talked about bonus chapter from Ren's perspective entitled, "A Dream Forgotten." This is the special chapter included in the exclusive edition of Tiger's Voyage sold only at Barnes & Noble and since it's so important in the story, I'm very excited they are giving you all a second chance at it.
Leave a comment below to let me know which authors/books you are most excited to read more about.
See you on the hunt!
Colleen
THE BLUE TEAM
AMBER ARGYLE
JOSEPHINE ANGELINI
KATE AVELYNN
LISA BURSTEIN
TERA LYNN CHILDS
KATE EVANGELISTA
TARA FULLER
RACHEL HARRIS
COLLEEN HOUCK
JUSTINA IRELAND
ELLIE JAMES
CARRIE JONES
JESSICA KHOURY
CINDY MADSEN
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MAUREEN MCGOWAN
MEGAN MIRANDA
ERICA O’ROURKE
DIANA PETERFREUND
AMY PLUM
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BETH REVIS
GINA ROSATI
VICTORIA SCOTT
JESSICA SPOTSWOOD
K.A. TUCKER
LISA VOISIN
THE RED TEAM
HEATHER ANASTASIU
JENNIFER ARMENTROUT
KENDARE BLAKE
RACHEL CARTER
RENEE COLLINS
LEIGH FALLON
MARLEY GIBSON
ALYXANDRA HARVEY
AMALIE HOWARD
CHLOE JACOBS
J.R. JOHANSSON
STEPHANIE KEYES
SUZANNE LAZEAR
MARI MANCUSI
GRETCHEN MCNEIL
LEA NOLAN
KATHLEEN PEACOCK
APRILYNNE PIKE
LISSA PRICE
ELIZABETH RICHARDS
MINDI SCOTT
JESSICA SHIRVINGTON
SCOTT TRACEY
ERIN UNDERWOOD
BRENNA YOVANOFF
Here is the much anticipated author reveal for the upcoming Spring YA Scavenger Hunt 2013! I am on the blue team again. You all know how I love blue. =) The hunt starts on Thursday April 4th at noon pacific time and ends on Sunday April 7th also at noon pacific. Along with the grand prizes which include a book from every author on the team, I will be giving away not only a collector's edition boxed set of books, but also ten copies of Tiger's Curse. I haven't quite decided what the bonus material will be this time but I'm leaning towards a deleted chapter from Destiny. I'm also considering an alternate ending to Destiny AND I may just throw in a tiny sample from the new Egyptian book I'm writing with maybe an inspiring picture or two. All things considered, you won't want to miss out on this hunt.
I'll be showcasing Tiger's Quest the paperback on this hunt which will be released the first week of May 2013. This version will include the much talked about bonus chapter from Ren's perspective entitled, "A Dream Forgotten." This is the special chapter included in the exclusive edition of Tiger's Voyage sold only at Barnes & Noble and since it's so important in the story, I'm very excited they are giving you all a second chance at it.
Leave a comment below to let me know which authors/books you are most excited to read more about.
See you on the hunt!
Colleen
THE BLUE TEAM
AMBER ARGYLE
JOSEPHINE ANGELINI
KATE AVELYNN
LISA BURSTEIN
TERA LYNN CHILDS
KATE EVANGELISTA
TARA FULLER
RACHEL HARRIS
COLLEEN HOUCK
JUSTINA IRELAND
ELLIE JAMES
CARRIE JONES
JESSICA KHOURY
CINDY MADSEN
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MAUREEN MCGOWAN
MEGAN MIRANDA
ERICA O’ROURKE
DIANA PETERFREUND
AMY PLUM
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BETH REVIS
GINA ROSATI
VICTORIA SCOTT
JESSICA SPOTSWOOD
K.A. TUCKER
LISA VOISIN
THE RED TEAM
HEATHER ANASTASIU
JENNIFER ARMENTROUT
KENDARE BLAKE
RACHEL CARTER
RENEE COLLINS
LEIGH FALLON
MARLEY GIBSON
ALYXANDRA HARVEY
AMALIE HOWARD
CHLOE JACOBS
J.R. JOHANSSON
STEPHANIE KEYES
SUZANNE LAZEAR
MARI MANCUSI
GRETCHEN MCNEIL
LEA NOLAN
KATHLEEN PEACOCK
APRILYNNE PIKE
LISSA PRICE
ELIZABETH RICHARDS
MINDI SCOTT
JESSICA SHIRVINGTON
SCOTT TRACEY
ERIN UNDERWOOD
BRENNA YOVANOFF
March 19, 2013
Groovy Giveaway: Time Travel
Hello! It is time for another giveaway. Are you ready?
Many people have now had the opportunity to read all four Tiger Saga books (Tiger's Curse, Tiger's Quest, Tiger's Voyage, and Tiger's Destiny). Did you ever find yourself saying "Kelsey! Don't do that!" or "Please, please, pleeeeeease, Kelsey!" or maybe "I'm so sorry, book! I didn't mean to throw you across the room but man, I can't believe she did that!"
Don't tell me you didn't do anything remotely similar. I won't believe you.
PRIZE: one of Colleen's books (autographed!) or audio books .... winner's choice
TO ENTER: Leave a comment answering this question---if you could go back to any moment in Tiger's Curse, Tiger's Quest, or Tiger's Voyage, what moment would that be and what would you choose to tell Kelsey?
BONUS QUESTION: This doesn't count as an additional entry, but I'd love it if you could answer a few more questions. 1) Do you like giveaways? 2) How often do you like to see giveaways? 3) What sort of prizes are you interested in seeing? 4) What type of giveaway do you like? (randomly generated, contests, etc) 5) Any other giveaway-like comment you'd like to add.
NUMBER OF WINNERS: One.
PRIZE SHIPS: This giveaway is open to anyone worldwide.
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Tuesday, March 26, 2013. No extensions will be given.
ADDITIONAL INFO: I will announce the winner next Wednesday. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or they forfeit their prize. (So either leave your email address in your comment or make sure to check back here on Wednesday to see if you won.)
If you have any problems or questions, please email me at contests@colleenhouck.com.
Many people have now had the opportunity to read all four Tiger Saga books (Tiger's Curse, Tiger's Quest, Tiger's Voyage, and Tiger's Destiny). Did you ever find yourself saying "Kelsey! Don't do that!" or "Please, please, pleeeeeease, Kelsey!" or maybe "I'm so sorry, book! I didn't mean to throw you across the room but man, I can't believe she did that!"
Don't tell me you didn't do anything remotely similar. I won't believe you.
PRIZE: one of Colleen's books (autographed!) or audio books .... winner's choice
TO ENTER: Leave a comment answering this question---if you could go back to any moment in Tiger's Curse, Tiger's Quest, or Tiger's Voyage, what moment would that be and what would you choose to tell Kelsey?
BONUS QUESTION: This doesn't count as an additional entry, but I'd love it if you could answer a few more questions. 1) Do you like giveaways? 2) How often do you like to see giveaways? 3) What sort of prizes are you interested in seeing? 4) What type of giveaway do you like? (randomly generated, contests, etc) 5) Any other giveaway-like comment you'd like to add.
NUMBER OF WINNERS: One.
PRIZE SHIPS: This giveaway is open to anyone worldwide.
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Tuesday, March 26, 2013. No extensions will be given.
ADDITIONAL INFO: I will announce the winner next Wednesday. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or they forfeit their prize. (So either leave your email address in your comment or make sure to check back here on Wednesday to see if you won.)
If you have any problems or questions, please email me at contests@colleenhouck.com.
