Paddling through Brunswick Stew

Last weekend was quite an exciting one for Jeff and me. Ashley and Neil came up Friday and stayed at our house that night. We love having friends come over, especially when we don't get to see them very often! The next morning we headed up to the Hester family farm that's in Virginia. The Hester clan was having a get-together because a family friend was teaching how to make Brunswick Stew. Now, when I think of Brunswick Stew I immediately think of Smithfield's. Probably because that's the only place I've actually eaten some...yes-I'm not a southerner. When we arrived at the house I was a little surprised to see this:

Brunswick Stew cooking outside in a 5 gallon pot that was being stirred by Uncle Mac with a boat paddle. Ok-it's not really a boat paddle, but it sure resembles one! This was the true southern way to make Brunswick Stew, I was told by the other man in the picture (Mr. George). Mr. George also told me that he had a 30 gallon pot to make Brunswick Stew in....30 gallons!! And I thought this 5 gallon pot was big! When the stew was finished cooking LaCoya and I were in charge of transferring the stew into smaller pots. I kept stirring so the stew wouldn't stick to the bottom and LaCoya ladled.

We enjoyed the rest of the day talking and enjoying food with the family. Jeff also stopped and got some hoop cheese. I don't know why it's called hoop cheese, but it's delicious!

On Sunday I went to a clothing exchange with some good friends. I think this is a brilliant idea, especially with this economy. We each brought a bag of clothes we no longer wear and looked through each other’s clothes. We took whatever we wanted! I got a new pair of jeans, 2 pairs of shorts, and 3 new shirts. I also enjoyed some girl time with these ladies!

This same night it started to snow! The first snow of the season and the first snow at our house! This weather was a little strange because it was squished in-between really warm winter days (the day after got up 60 degrees!) Even so, I really enjoy seeing pretty snow falling from the sky!

Quite a busy and fun weekend!

Comments

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Hester Happenings

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