Monday, September 24, 2012

On Scarecrows

With the arrival of autumn come thoughts of crisp air, leaves changing colors, pumpkin patches, and, often in the nature of decor, scarecrows.

The variance among types of scarecrows is vast and the images that one might conjure when thinking of them equally so. The popular likeness that comes to one's mind is that of a set of patched clothing stuffed with hay and a floppy hat stuck atop a head made of a sack, all, of course, balanced atop sticks connected to make a cross-like frame. In seeing one such as this, one might think of the ever popular scarecrow going in search of brains or one might think of a creepier scarecrow, such as that brought to life by Mother Rigby.

Furthermore, in purpose, they may serve as an attempt to keep the birds away, which may or may not work dependant on one’s scarecrow. In the event that it fails to keep the birds aways, though, one should not feel discouraged, but should think of it as an opportunity to start the hobby of bird watching and quite possibly as a means of exercise if one decides not to take up this hobby.  Aside from the more purposeful use, they also can be a delightful addition for a pumpkin patch, inviting all ages for a day of country fun along with the possible tractor and hay.

Be they cute or scary and for whatever purpose, though, it is undoubtable that during the next few months one will see scarecrows gracing lawns and gardens, as well as adorning various decorations that go up with the coming of autumn.      

Thursday, September 6, 2012

On Ice Cream

July 1947

When the weather becomes unbearably hot and sticky as it has been of late, there are few foods that hit the spot quite as nicely as ice cream! And undeniably, this delectably cold dish is one that offers a tasty relief from the heat of summer!

While a wonderful treat by itself, there are a great variety of ways that one can use ice cream, such as for making sundaes, pies, and milkshakes. At the time the above picture was taken, The Good Housekeeping Cook Book offered a number of ways to serve it ranging from Ice Cream Shortcakes and Ice Cream Ginger Ale (also known as a Boston Cooler despite originating in Detroit, Michigan) to, on the more unique side, Pineapple Minted Parfait and Spiced Grape Sundae. Although the latter two lack the appeal of the others with some rather interesting ingredient combinations, they certainly provide one with an example of how ice cream can be used in just about any way imaginable!

Hence, with so many varieties to choose from and with so many ways to add to it, ice cream is and will remain popular among all ages allowing everyone to indulge in whatever their fancy may be!