tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17039634253297427462024-03-05T01:35:14.937-08:00Sweet Home PolskaBlog about Poland - Polish traditions, holidays, food and places worth visiting.
Poland is a beautiful and full of traditions country.
It is known for its hospitality, rich culture, breathtaking architecture and great food!
Poland ("Polska") is definitely worth seeing when travelling to Europe.Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-46418561496595236962017-12-21T17:38:00.000-08:002017-12-21T17:38:02.694-08:00Christmas Eve traditions, customs and dishes<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzz5UNUpuxubsNIaqpaM1vUhLerbOQwSxY8wWFcDXTGzc9H4twB54B9xsq1Td0z0XHPqSB_46wlHDzJMabkjOv8ryRM43fR2xMYLNufemYcioe5C1Eov4yI4k-M7iLwOTErHHuSuzU1762/s320/100_5517.JPG" width="240" /></div>
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It's that time of the year again, when I am missing Polish traditions and my family overseas. The time which feels the most magical and peaceful out of all days in a year.<br />
To me, it's Christmas Eve - <i>Wigilia</i>.<br />
I posted previously about many traditions and the sequence of the Christmas Eve dinner. Somehow, I feel the need to share my sentiments with the readers again, as this day is approaching fast.<br />
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My favorite tradition is stated in this saying: "May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve". Waiting for the first star to appear in the sky used to be my favorite and the most exciting part of the evening as a child. Besides opening my presents after the dinner, of course. Part of it must be because it feels really mysterious to search the skies, and another must be the excitement of eating food after all day of fasting!<br />
Do I still look at the sky? - you bet! Some people are searching for Santa's sleigh, others for a star that guided the Three Wise Man to Bethlehem to find Baby Jesus. It's a beautiful tradition. I cherish it so much that I want to pass it to my children. It's totally fine with me if they search the skies twice that night - for the first star before the dinner and for Santa's sleigh before bedtime. Double the magic! As I know from my own my experience, searching for the star stays with you as you get older. 😉<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zfUjzjguB_NkCTAV2q34MzC1v5XWgee8AJzTK3qaghvRzboOq8vw-GLwfofv9Flt8iAPDiyZf1uJE-eCuEVKxgwq6PuzawgPSUaKcPkJtIyJgQnbZpKgEJsSjMma3mE_Mn6mEeLhBYSU/s1600/kartka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zfUjzjguB_NkCTAV2q34MzC1v5XWgee8AJzTK3qaghvRzboOq8vw-GLwfofv9Flt8iAPDiyZf1uJE-eCuEVKxgwq6PuzawgPSUaKcPkJtIyJgQnbZpKgEJsSjMma3mE_Mn6mEeLhBYSU/s320/kartka.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another very important tradition that I cherish each year is<i> Oplatek</i> (wafer) sharing, thanks to my Mom who shares it with us! It always comes with wishes of good health, love and luck for the next year.<br />
Even though, we're having a very small Christmas Eve dinner this year, I'm excited about the tradition of wafer sharing with Polish Christmas carols being played in a background. Our children will also open one Christmas Eve present that night. I'm thinking about starting to call it a "Christmas Eve Box", as a way of combining Polish and American traditions of opening gifts on different days.<br />
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Let's talk about food a bit, too. It is much more different than here in US.<br />
Polish Christmas Eve dinner consists of 12 dishes. Almost in each household, there are 12 dishes on a table. Number 12 is referred to the number of the Apostles and months of the year. Tasting each of the dishes is believed to guarantee strength and luck. Since no one wants to have a bad luck until next Christmas, majority of guests overeat. Dishes vary depending on a region of Poland and the most popular are:<br />
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<li><i>Choice of soup</i>: red borscht (made of beets), white borscht (sour rye soup) or mushroom soup,</li>
<li><i>Uszka </i>- mini dumplings filled with mushrooms </li>
<li><i>Pierogi </i>filled with sauerkraut and mushrooms</li>
<li><i>Fried, baked</i> <i>fish </i>with <i>carp </i>being a main dish</li>
<li><i>Herrings </i>- pickled, in cream, and in many more variations </li>
<li><i>Bigos </i>- combination of sauerkraut and fresh cabbage with mushrooms and spices (cooked on low for a long time, preferably a couple of days). Non-fasting version includes meats and sausage. </li>
<li><i>Kutia </i>- pearled barley with poppy seed, raisins and nuts</li>
<li><i>Egg noodles with poppy seed</i></li>
<li><i>Dried fruit kompot</i> - dried fruit soaked in water and cooked (includes dried apples, plums, pears and apricots)</li>
<li><i>Makowiec </i>- poppy seed cake roll</li>
<li><i>Piernik </i>- gingerbread cake</li>
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and many more treats, salads and side dishes.... Can you handle it???<br />
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Here are the links to my <a href="http://sweethomepolska.blogspot.com/2011/12/piernik-great-for-christmas.html" target="_blank">piernik</a> and baked <a href="http://sweethomepolska.blogspot.com/2011/12/paszteciki-pierogi-drozdzowe.html" target="_blank">paszteciki/pierogi</a> recipes. I'm not missing out on having <i>paszteciki </i>this year!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paszteciki</td></tr>
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Before I finish, I have one more thing worth sharing with you all. I'm going to end this blog post with a fun custom, which many of you might find weird. I remember my dad doing this. It's a custom of putting a carp's scale into one's wallet. Why? To ensure wealth for the entire year. You never know what your Polish friends might carry in their wallets! 😄<br />
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Here you go! A little summary of traditions surrounding Polish Christmas Eve Dinner. For more, please visit my older post <a href="http://sweethomepolska.blogspot.com/2011/12/wigilia-christmas-eve.html" target="_blank">Wigilia</a>.<br />
I hope that you have a beautiful, joyful Christmas.<br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Crafty Girls"; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia!!!</span></em></strong><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Royal Castle, Warsaw.<br />By: Krzysztof Korczak</td></tr>
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<br />Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-65249143205733787392013-06-11T09:54:00.005-07:002017-04-04T18:18:05.928-07:00Placki ziemniaczane<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With natural yogurt and dill</td></tr>
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<i>Placki</i> <i>ziemniaczane</i> ("potato pancakes") are a slightly different version of hash browns...</div>
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In Poland, <i>placki</i> <i>ziemniaczane</i> make a good, cheap and comforting meal.</div>
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Serve them with sugar, sour cream, cottage cheese or natural yogurt. Add some dill, radishes or spring onion.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglITL3D-rg5nSD-7Qe4mdSX2t9EViBjSBFlMH-eddTDw12sjv1EBiTg25ufz2iu8uHIIJI7tVixmkXEtYPy6zeJIQfE8EgBwnBwaLBgVppsxPT3Q80ReGPI8IM9dpPiBvGEw0FuiINE5y6/s640/blogger-image-1161196466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglITL3D-rg5nSD-7Qe4mdSX2t9EViBjSBFlMH-eddTDw12sjv1EBiTg25ufz2iu8uHIIJI7tVixmkXEtYPy6zeJIQfE8EgBwnBwaLBgVppsxPT3Q80ReGPI8IM9dpPiBvGEw0FuiINE5y6/s400/blogger-image-1161196466.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<b><i><u>Placki</u></i></b> <b><i><u>ziemniaczane</u>:</i></b></div>
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6 medium potatoes, grated or cut into small pieces if using a food processor</div>
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Half onion, chopped</div>
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Salt & pepper to taste</div>
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2-3 Tbsp flour</div>
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Oil for frying</div>
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Mix all ingredients (or blend them in a food processor) and heat oil in a frying pan. Place full tablespoons of potato mixture in a pan. Flatten with spatula and fry for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with granulated sugar and serve warm. You can add other toppings (mentioned above) if you wish. </div>
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<i>Smacznego!</i></div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-34471871332898482462013-05-28T07:59:00.000-07:002017-05-29T09:55:49.197-07:00Łeba<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpu8vTPGSOK_5tepkAO1D1OazmEFwNqCf1wtPhQmqlBPPaq_zZLWI3vebyHoOPdRXl2Nz_3svogkgK8WCAPQuCZQf7cVFXpU9jyJbN8CDYbD-rq-7Ny_tmu85YRUJovLcpVF2oqTWfI2d/s1600/Image499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpu8vTPGSOK_5tepkAO1D1OazmEFwNqCf1wtPhQmqlBPPaq_zZLWI3vebyHoOPdRXl2Nz_3svogkgK8WCAPQuCZQf7cVFXpU9jyJbN8CDYbD-rq-7Ny_tmu85YRUJovLcpVF2oqTWfI2d/s320/Image499.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Neptun Hotel <br>- a beautiful landmark on the beach<br><em>Source: private albums</em></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I Love Łeba, and I'm not alone here.</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once you visit this charming town located on the Baltic Coast (North of Poland), you will fall in love and want to return. </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are many reasons why I love this place. Here are a few: large and sandy beach, beautiful sunsets, tasty fried fish, lovely harbor, many, oh so many activities to do, and on top of that: my family lives there! </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Łeba is perfect for leisure and summer fun, but it's also great throughout the year and offers variety of activities for each season.</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are only <u>a few</u> things to consider doing when visiting this picturesque town, besides swimming and sunbathing:</div><ol><li><span style="border: 0px currentColor; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Słow</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">iński</span></b></i></span> <i><b>Park</b></i> <b><i>Narodowy</i></b> (<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Słowiński<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b></span>National Park) - a huge attraction! This Park belongs to the UNESCO's World Biosphere Reserves. It is famous for shifting dunes, that are unique in a world scale. Impression that you get is like being in the middle of the desert :o) <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Słowiński National </span>Park is also a home for different bird species (260 types of birds). Peat bogs, meadows, woods and four lakes: <b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Łebsko, </b> Gardno, <b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dołgie </b>Wielkie and <b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Dołgie </b><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Małe </b>create the perfect environment. A must-see!</li><li><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><b><i>Windsurfing</i></b> <b><i>and</i></b> <i><b>kitesurfing</b></i>. There is a school with professional instructors located near the Sarbsko Lake - 2 km outside of Łeba.</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><i><b>Kayaking</b></i> on the Sarbsko Lake.</span></li><li><i style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b>Horse</b></i> <i style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b>riding</b></i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">. A stable is located in </span><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Nowęcin</b><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> village, outside of Łeba. Horse riding on the beach and horse riding camps are available.</span></li><li><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><i>Fishing!</i></b></span></li><li>Lots of <b><i>biking</i></b> routes.</li><li><b><i>Camping</i></b> sides.</li><li><i><b>Nordic</b></i> <b><i>walking</i></b> (especially in spring and fall). Check out this Nordic Walking School with professional instructors located at Zdrowotel <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">Łeba</span>. (<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-family: '.HelveticaNeueUI'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;">http://www.zdrowotel.pl)</span></li></ol><div><font face=".HelveticaNeueUI"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">I hope, that you are convinced to visit!</span></font></div><div><font face=".HelveticaNeueUI"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><br></span></font></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_yLOK3oQf5IY_Vj_oipn7aXcEbKqcX9ja4S9Uo1su3WGVQSPF6nwX-BnRMTOT8QeyGCp6At2GPEfh8ie2JRoMWSLktA-A2aU6Q9JpsQnbsVRUUbPc_phMep_d5lLrycx-idQH_kRTS7l/s1600/Image497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_yLOK3oQf5IY_Vj_oipn7aXcEbKqcX9ja4S9Uo1su3WGVQSPF6nwX-BnRMTOT8QeyGCp6At2GPEfh8ie2JRoMWSLktA-A2aU6Q9JpsQnbsVRUUbPc_phMep_d5lLrycx-idQH_kRTS7l/s320/Image497.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When the sun goes down ...<br><em>Source: private albums</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgCL8GBBr6mIDtEXZxAZpLeQBKciF5Q-qwBibhzShuitoNc2FfVShAJ4rm5u8X8BTTze4vdzeBMcYoOJgZeR0ikK0hOxwyF5Tg-lVwRECqDi2tro6vKQy62PsRSG5W-jMrm1VKv0jWfRR/s1600/IMG_2381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgCL8GBBr6mIDtEXZxAZpLeQBKciF5Q-qwBibhzShuitoNc2FfVShAJ4rm5u8X8BTTze4vdzeBMcYoOJgZeR0ikK0hOxwyF5Tg-lVwRECqDi2tro6vKQy62PsRSG5W-jMrm1VKv0jWfRR/s320/IMG_2381.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lifeguard standing a watch on a rainy day<br><em>Source: private albums</em> </td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLBfwI45HUm4YtKwyFltE2ygud3OQzI4EnsWPZn3pL3vs8eXE3mtWyW-TPu86AOsCIqI9fjELSOrdobAbaXAySfQOc9UjlDiLEsMVMOcXpJv57QVsvVfO1vyO2G8rXGSowgzJb_H3_30-/s1600/IMG_2385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLBfwI45HUm4YtKwyFltE2ygud3OQzI4EnsWPZn3pL3vs8eXE3mtWyW-TPu86AOsCIqI9fjELSOrdobAbaXAySfQOc9UjlDiLEsMVMOcXpJv57QVsvVfO1vyO2G8rXGSowgzJb_H3_30-/s320/IMG_2385.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful summer evening<br><em>Source: private albums</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjqD7tRAyOluw4MijCRbxAIpsaca9d_G4Bnmqb2-5URGM4GUWF1M7-GwlQTXNKCmBqffU4-erB0bbmjLcp4ytVXOz1Cnv00HlM-o5bVbZ_O7in4DUOHykcHs2zPPGTvpnfkavvEaWxwjP/s1600/P1160523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjqD7tRAyOluw4MijCRbxAIpsaca9d_G4Bnmqb2-5URGM4GUWF1M7-GwlQTXNKCmBqffU4-erB0bbmjLcp4ytVXOz1Cnv00HlM-o5bVbZ_O7in4DUOHykcHs2zPPGTvpnfkavvEaWxwjP/s320/P1160523.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a view on a rainy day - at the harbor<br><em>Source: family pictures</em></td></tr></tbody></table><br><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuvSXyvE45SGohpoy0bWd7e1f5XaOUdejvCUVyrno3k-e2AQFROkwnMMSmYMgdMxDcDHOn_uOQGGGyH47XmPjPiSN5hbL2L2pedDk1_LFbl0dWf-ic9ERRmel-uunBX-7ZwgDmV8g56fB/s1600/P1160524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuvSXyvE45SGohpoy0bWd7e1f5XaOUdejvCUVyrno3k-e2AQFROkwnMMSmYMgdMxDcDHOn_uOQGGGyH47XmPjPiSN5hbL2L2pedDk1_LFbl0dWf-ic9ERRmel-uunBX-7ZwgDmV8g56fB/s320/P1160524.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swans don't mind rainy days<br><em>Source: family pictures</em></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyZwedySCRM_j_cEASPaovGni3ltvwtVuGs4hQTxaxvTItFA2U4_uygMPHDK5PDuGogf1LixegDH_dilB8J0o4ragt1oa33zJljZwcFv94MG2h_cfLOdG5f3e1K6M6pZbsD-4KXLtuENi/s1600/leba.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyZwedySCRM_j_cEASPaovGni3ltvwtVuGs4hQTxaxvTItFA2U4_uygMPHDK5PDuGogf1LixegDH_dilB8J0o4ragt1oa33zJljZwcFv94MG2h_cfLOdG5f3e1K6M6pZbsD-4KXLtuENi/s320/leba.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Łeba's beach in winter<br><em>Author: Elzbieta Pietruszewska</em></td></tr></tbody></table>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-76288992160677522972013-05-25T16:42:00.001-07:002013-06-03T08:39:59.295-07:00Kokosanki<div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjQqAOU6eW36xz09n7Qz3D8BFZYTQkokIIkVXrxfCK0rhzn_Zom2moiuUKGRyxKkt0TnPXymB1f8YfiwsBFWrpRhNt3bgGfJnU1pSQ7hMV_u5_wcm9xseEJ5j94tn-8rRBVCJcsxaC9GI/s640/blogger-image--1004846119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjQqAOU6eW36xz09n7Qz3D8BFZYTQkokIIkVXrxfCK0rhzn_Zom2moiuUKGRyxKkt0TnPXymB1f8YfiwsBFWrpRhNt3bgGfJnU1pSQ7hMV_u5_wcm9xseEJ5j94tn-8rRBVCJcsxaC9GI/s400/blogger-image--1004846119.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sweet memory from childhood. </div>
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Yet, another one :o)</div>
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Whenever my mom would buy coconut macaroons, I was literally in heaven!</div>
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In Poland they are called "<i>kokosanki</i>".</div>
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Cute name, huh? :o)</div>
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Well, today I made some, and after tasting/sampling/stuffing my mouth with them, I'm ready to share the recipe with you. </div>
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Warning: pure sweetness!</div>
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<b><i>Kokosanki</i></b></div>
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<i>Yield: around 15 macaroons </i></div>
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<i>Recipe from "Good Housekeeping" magazine, modified (I didn't dip macaroons in chocolate)</i></div>
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2 1/2 c. sweetened coconut flakes</div>
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2/3 c. sweetened condensed milk</div>
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1/3 c. all-purpose flour</div>
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1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
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pinch of salt</div>
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1. Preheat oven to 350º F and grease a cookie sheet.</div>
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2. Stir dry ingredients first, then add condensed milk and vanilla.</div>
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3. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto a cookie sheet.</div>
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3. Bake for 15 min or until golden on bottoms.</div>
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4. Let cool. I didn't... :o) They taste the best cold, but who cares... </div>
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-54752359491400098952013-05-02T08:16:00.001-07:002013-05-05T05:41:30.440-07:00Flag Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7g8cSTth-j_o6b5GWHCtPXWHagvDYDKxmivpZWZ2Uu7DkuIilJldqW-ELrEc3CKWKEq2HpJvhbHHJxp1cF2DS8CEVhgcsiGvYpKlGJq-nqr7uNM6gSeQ1eND9G-jOno9yqg98nr1H8nlg/s640/blogger-image-1829246460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7g8cSTth-j_o6b5GWHCtPXWHagvDYDKxmivpZWZ2Uu7DkuIilJldqW-ELrEc3CKWKEq2HpJvhbHHJxp1cF2DS8CEVhgcsiGvYpKlGJq-nqr7uNM6gSeQ1eND9G-jOno9yqg98nr1H8nlg/s320/blogger-image-1829246460.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Flag Day was established in 2004, and falls on May 2nd every year.<br />
Polish flags dancing in the wind can be seen already on May 1st (Labor Day - Swieto Pracy) which is usually the beginning of a "long weekend" in Poland. May 3rd brings another national holiday and that is Constitution Day - Swieto Konstytucji 3 Maja. <br />
That's lots of time off this year ;-)<br />
Happy long weekend everyone! <br />
<br />Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-28120381428141381862013-03-08T11:00:00.001-08:002013-06-03T08:37:56.244-07:00Happy Women's Day!Dzien Kobiet! <br />
Just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of us CooL women a wonderful and surprising day! :o)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-9Y4yj_B80ZUAosvlcEyxEo5693Q8sLVDElDzcgBfC_wQOKhxgVfAFT9LrPbV9GnkEAisDfEdE8E5rndUdvPljmqsXlck-TYSLMVgUcYXhgf6NrhvSrrBiiNQxJW6IJh38tbYBmEEQDNz/s640/blogger-image--145553179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-9Y4yj_B80ZUAosvlcEyxEo5693Q8sLVDElDzcgBfC_wQOKhxgVfAFT9LrPbV9GnkEAisDfEdE8E5rndUdvPljmqsXlck-TYSLMVgUcYXhgf6NrhvSrrBiiNQxJW6IJh38tbYBmEEQDNz/s320/blogger-image--145553179.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-20589140115943386252013-02-07T10:37:00.001-08:002013-06-03T08:40:17.596-07:00Don't forget to grab a doughnut today!It's this time of the year again! <br />
Fat Thursday - Tlusty Czwartek!<br />
Busy with my baby, I didn't realize it until today. My family and friends have been posting pictures of paczki (doughnuts) since early morning and my mouth is watering now... <br />
Thanks guys! ;-)<br />
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If you are not participating in Paczki Eating Contest, you still need to eat at least one paczek today! If not, the rest of the year might not go too well for you... ;o)<br />
This excuse is good enough to indulge in this sugar & fat pleasure. Fine with me and with many Poles! :-D<br />
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Let me also recommend another popular Fat Thursday treat: faworki. <br />
Crispy, mouth watering, simply delicious! Mmmm... Mmmm.... Mmmm!<br />
You can find out how to make faworki under the Recipes/Food category.<br />
Happy Fat Thursday!<br />
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-46585875788335608012013-02-06T14:01:00.001-08:002013-06-03T10:24:21.446-07:00Krzywy Domek, SopotIf you like modern architecture, you might find this building interesting.<br>
Krzywy Domek (Crooked House) in Sopot, Poland can be found on a list of "11 of Europe's most bizarre buildings" by CNN.<br>
More information about this building can be found on www.krzywydomek.info<br>
Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-61937644523052692482013-01-18T08:05:00.001-08:002013-06-03T08:38:28.621-07:00Welcome Little Jason!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjscPAoRz0RhFagO7Bd4m0wVKtOMKnWIzwWLY_pSjxYbpzrzu3g3t9IMvj2CHiJ6LvOKxvxmOg-TGCjhLdUi9v01BzpAjt4GduccLM5PHQqmyNzUi4921xpEKqiTl5ivNWe-pCNPfktD0hj/s640/blogger-image-2070883067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjscPAoRz0RhFagO7Bd4m0wVKtOMKnWIzwWLY_pSjxYbpzrzu3g3t9IMvj2CHiJ6LvOKxvxmOg-TGCjhLdUi9v01BzpAjt4GduccLM5PHQqmyNzUi4921xpEKqiTl5ivNWe-pCNPfktD0hj/s400/blogger-image-2070883067.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Hello everyone,<br />
I would like to share with you this wonderful news! <br />
I'm so fortunate to say that last month we were blessed with a beautiful Baby Boy!<br />
We couldn't be happier!!! Welcome to this world little Jason! <br />
I hope that you like this blue set that mama made for you ;))<br />
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I love you so much!!! <br />
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-58322203299679418002012-11-30T16:54:00.000-08:002013-05-01T07:50:14.753-07:00Morskie Oko - Jewel of the Tatra Mountains<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mAp-XJPwGIBBKkX-ZhgReKuow8GKSw4_bUccbZ2jXC6bGVSjbaH9AlzuzKcLTJ96lSMwn4git1eOW_IDyc-FQ96El8vIvdGHT8zyL-ncQW2xjsl-MFT7_VZ0XBmc6qQXiZSjogN7o31q/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mAp-XJPwGIBBKkX-ZhgReKuow8GKSw4_bUccbZ2jXC6bGVSjbaH9AlzuzKcLTJ96lSMwn4git1eOW_IDyc-FQ96El8vIvdGHT8zyL-ncQW2xjsl-MFT7_VZ0XBmc6qQXiZSjogN7o31q/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It feels like a million years ago... High school field trip</td></tr></tbody></table><strong>Morskie Oko </strong>is one of the most popular and charming destinations when visiting Polish mountains. A must-see place. <br />
You can get there by foot (approximately 2 1/2 hours) or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. <br />
Both are fun and you can rest assured that you will enjoy the surroundings. <br />
The view of the lake itself is a cherry on top!<br />
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<strong>Morskie Oko </strong>is the largest lake in the <strong>Tatra Mountains</strong> (<strong>Tatry</strong>) and is located in the <strong>Tatra National Park </strong>(<strong>Tatrzanski Park Narodowy</strong>).<br />
The name <strong>Morskie Oko </strong>can be translated as "Eye of the Sea", as one of the legends says that the lake was connected to the sea through the underground tunnel.<br />
It used to be called "Fish Pond" (<strong>Rybi Staw</strong>) due to natural stock of fish (mainly trout), which is really rare in the Tatra lakes. However, fishing and feeding fish are not allowed.<br />
Beautiful clear water of the lake and the view of the highest peaks of the <strong>Tatra Mountains</strong><strong> </strong>are breathtaking. <br />
<strong>Morskie Oko </strong>is a great starting point for those who want to reach the highest peak in the <strong>Polish Tatra Mountains - Rysy </strong>(2,499 MASL). It takes approximately 4 hours plus time for rest.<br />
Visitors can explore different mountain trails in the area and nice walk around the lake takes less than an hour!<br />
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-59979866270515452962012-10-24T12:18:00.000-07:002012-10-24T12:18:00.549-07:00For my mom: Banana Bread recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGDP6j2whnRP-UOhdrIS4_wQPTJSc3Cr48fqDh4iEpOFz1UPT4-TItLMvvTnru1mlk7kRhbDKDszIXubVEvNrpVRkvA6954d2Fe50QND9gqCtHC-B7VYts4LbypT6p-Xwj_Ulw2ZeErTq/s1600/IMAG4534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGDP6j2whnRP-UOhdrIS4_wQPTJSc3Cr48fqDh4iEpOFz1UPT4-TItLMvvTnru1mlk7kRhbDKDszIXubVEvNrpVRkvA6954d2Fe50QND9gqCtHC-B7VYts4LbypT6p-Xwj_Ulw2ZeErTq/s320/IMAG4534.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Little twist today: from my table to my mom's table.</div>
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Polish version first! :o)</div>
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Please scroll down for English version.</div>
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My brother enjoyed this banana bread at our house</div>
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and now he wants some more! :)</div>
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<em><strong>Dla mamusi: </strong></em></div>
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<em><strong>Przepis na</strong></em> <strong><em><u>CHLEBEK BANANOWY:</u></em></strong></div>
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<br /></div>
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3-4 dojrzale banany</div>
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75 g rozpuszczonego masla</div>
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1/4 szkl. cukru</div>
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1 jajko</div>
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1 lyzeczka ekstraktu z wanilii (lub opakowanie cukru waniliowego)</div>
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1 lyzeczka proszku do pieczenia</div>
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szczypta soli</div>
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1,5 szkl. maki</div>
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*1/2 szkl. posiekanych orzechow wloskich</div>
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</div>
<ol>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Widelcem rozgniesc banany.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dodac roztopione maslo, cukier, jajko oraz wanilie. Wszystkie skladniki wymieszac.</div>
</li>
<li>Dodac make, proszek do pieczenia i sol. Dobrze wymieszac. Dodac orzechy.</li>
<li>Mase wylac do natluszczonej keksowki (w moim przypadku sa to dwie keksowki) i piec godzine w piekarniku nagrzanym do 175 stopni Celsjusza.</li>
</ol>
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*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*</div>
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<strong><em><u>BANANA BREAD:</u></em></strong></div>
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3-4 ripe bananas </div>
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1/3 c. butter, melted</div>
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1/4 c. sugar</div>
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1 egg, beaten</div>
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1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
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1 tsp. baking soda</div>
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pinch of salt</div>
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1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour</div>
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*1/2 c. chopped walnuts</div>
<ol>
<li>Mash bananas with a fork.</li>
<li>Add melted butter, sugar, egg and vanilla extract. Mix.</li>
<li>Add flour, baking soda and salt. Mix all ingredients and add walnuts if you like.</li>
<li>Pour batter into greased loaf pans and bake for 1 hr at 350º F.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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The amount of sugar in this recipe is reduced to 1/4 cup</div>
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and if you have ripe bananas, trust me, you don't need to overload with sugar!</div>
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Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-50450232892624286492012-08-09T09:42:00.001-07:002012-11-24T01:14:42.426-08:00My brother is visiting! A word about tourist visa.Hello,<br />
It's been a while since my last blog post.<br />
Lots of great things happened and I've been positively distracted.<br />
Finally, I got a chance to host my brother! It's a big deal for me! <br />
For the first time, a close family member from Poland is visiting! :o)<br />
<br />
Imagine the distance, the Atlantic Ocean between us, the time difference and plane ticket prices! <br />
We don't get too many chances to see each other.<br />
We're skyping, using social network web sites, sending postcards and e-cards, texting... <br />
I miss my family every day and I'm so grateful for today's technology, but nothing can replace face to face meetings, hugs and laughs!<br />
Horrifying prices of the plane tickets are not the only issue for my family in Poland.<br />
They have to deal with visas, too.<br />
For many people it used to be a discouraging, intimidating and disappointing process (and also expensive one!).<br />
Poland has been waiting patiently for some changes about visas. Different promises and negotiations around this topic took place. Who knows, maybe future will be brighter?...<br />
<br />
I believe, that certain things have changed for better though - online application process, short awaiting time for the interview and no long lines in front of the US Embassy!<br />
I was really happy for my brother that he was able to take care of everything and that visa process went really smooth.<br />
<br />
All the instructions how to apply for a tourist visa, forms and steps that you need to take can be found on the United States Embassy web site:<br />
<a href="http://polish.poland.usembassy.gov/wizy.html" target="_blank">http://polish.poland.usembassy.gov/wizy.html</a><br />
This video, prepared by the United States Embassy in Warsaw might be helpful too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/EsPJZqtk6aw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>And one more thing...<br />
Anyone travelling with a tourist visa is expected to be a tourist, doesn't have work permit and can not extend his/her stay in the United States. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I answer this kind of questions a lot. I think, that some people get a little suspicious because of the illegal immigration problem in the U.S., but I try not to get offended. I just patiently explain them "the rules" :)</div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-486103345773919342012-07-06T15:35:00.001-07:002013-10-27T16:07:17.543-07:00Gołąbki - Stuffed cabbage rolls<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlntgwTMHAxnVL_uTqyWDPESG1_cY7WUCuslKJ5Sefk9AEAZWZHd7WEyzOlMV8tvQX0A-dPfW2fMCwtdqfiGsMHKmrSMxBcVopmmffxzAfn3OndZlGLyGEFt9PFIu6MoKsggcwJd2Nohd/s1600/100_7012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlntgwTMHAxnVL_uTqyWDPESG1_cY7WUCuslKJ5Sefk9AEAZWZHd7WEyzOlMV8tvQX0A-dPfW2fMCwtdqfiGsMHKmrSMxBcVopmmffxzAfn3OndZlGLyGEFt9PFIu6MoKsggcwJd2Nohd/s320/100_7012.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how we like it. <br>
With lots of tomato sauce!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"<em>Gołąbki</em>" (plural form) means literally "little pigeons", but don't get discouraged, it's only vocabulary :-)<br>
"<em>Gołąbki</em>" is a traditional Polish dish - delicious stuffed cabbage rolls, that my husband and I, love to eat.<br>
They are perfect, especially when I'm missing homey, comforting, Polish food.<br>
They are known under different names in other European countries, while many people in America refer to this dish as "pigs in a blanket".<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVu8yD8ossY3i5t5uMMcrrMzDPcTTsEGsJ29DpthCxTw1x0aWwqyCpalFTHdk8zc1aRbWfxTJg1Z1eKXmWpuBe7ORvPLBTz7ptxSnD1aizoGuRK1688CQ8oNPq0VXo7U3PMXnOMotRA1Oj/s1600/100_6984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVu8yD8ossY3i5t5uMMcrrMzDPcTTsEGsJ29DpthCxTw1x0aWwqyCpalFTHdk8zc1aRbWfxTJg1Z1eKXmWpuBe7ORvPLBTz7ptxSnD1aizoGuRK1688CQ8oNPq0VXo7U3PMXnOMotRA1Oj/s320/100_6984.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74a5W3BJxp4Nm6W-mPa9tlbDTvfYaH5wxV3KimWdhIhzx8Qo_pXMuKN0htNNK7jkSEv1fJvap_icdb6ANlet8_HGRDH7mvoAN-8ggD3osJSLefhda0IvCCzHiFI5EUxP6DA8obRVJq6pf/s1600/100_6981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74a5W3BJxp4Nm6W-mPa9tlbDTvfYaH5wxV3KimWdhIhzx8Qo_pXMuKN0htNNK7jkSEv1fJvap_icdb6ANlet8_HGRDH7mvoAN-8ggD3osJSLefhda0IvCCzHiFI5EUxP6DA8obRVJq6pf/s320/100_6981.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbrzz-JgKUMJmnNi6eX62xJboMyMWXps9M4FBZYYqATDi66ddEq_VGQYNra9GEnooGWYAOv6PIRosz6_YByO7q1GkmayeQ_LY_2OhdqZgtaajlX8T66MdfITjdPi-zAUgRTl_KlnlUz6Q/s1600/100_6995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbrzz-JgKUMJmnNi6eX62xJboMyMWXps9M4FBZYYqATDi66ddEq_VGQYNra9GEnooGWYAOv6PIRosz6_YByO7q1GkmayeQ_LY_2OhdqZgtaajlX8T66MdfITjdPi-zAUgRTl_KlnlUz6Q/s320/100_6995.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijF-i84G8JoYlGZ2D7nTwjtHQ_H_GBU3f5_z7IiwpAL5MR-Y_FV9cWsf5rSeKlsR_vlj6nrUYpDuv39rPheSyRVpvU676ovH2-SXFpDRQnrNNvgS2kStexNTkrTwCZFI0R6DXhXrVWzhuY/s1600/100_6997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijF-i84G8JoYlGZ2D7nTwjtHQ_H_GBU3f5_z7IiwpAL5MR-Y_FV9cWsf5rSeKlsR_vlj6nrUYpDuv39rPheSyRVpvU676ovH2-SXFpDRQnrNNvgS2kStexNTkrTwCZFI0R6DXhXrVWzhuY/s320/100_6997.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<strong><em><u>Recipe:</u></em></strong><br>
<br>1-2 heads of white cabbage,<br>
2 lbs ground beef (*if you can buy ground pork, then half and half),<br>
1.5 cup cooked rice,<br>
1 large onion, chopped,<br>
2 Tbsp butter,<br>
1 clove of garlic, chopped,<br>
1 tsp nutmeg,<br>
salt and pepper,<br>
tomato sauce,<br>
fresh or dried dill<br>
<br>
<ol>
<li>Remove core from cabbage and place whole cabbage in a large pot with boiling water. </li>
<li>Cover and boil for a few minutes until the leaves get soft and are easy to peel off.</li>
<li>Carefully peel off individual leaves, remove hard parts (center stem) using a knife.</li>
<li>Chop the remaining cabbage and place it on the bottom of a casserole dish.</li>
<li>Fry chopped onions with butter until soft. Let cool.</li>
<li>Mix ground beef (and pork, if using any), fried onions, garlic, cooked rice and spices until well combined.</li>
<li>Form large ovals from meat and place each one on an individual cabbage leaf. Roll leaves over the meat and place cabbage rolls in a casserole dish.</li>
<li>Pour tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls and garnish with dill.</li>
<li>Bake in 350º F for 1 hour.</li>
</ol>
Serve with sauce only or with mashed potatoes on the side.<br>
If you wish, garnish with shredded cheese (optional).<br>
<br>
<em>Smacznego!</em>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-68708876262609116742012-06-28T18:23:00.000-07:002013-10-27T16:11:10.600-07:00Łazienki Królewskie - Łazienki Park, Warsaw<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8YY-5-jc4Y7ikiV2Rm1lHzKCIBeGYXXnaE1ajGX9M3_f_qOKx84V0nBgL6JVZI9A8DQZ4Ta2cs4PsvUXadyferrEu_Hso-eLdxN3yOSHiTfschWQxHkqllw57l4o1CTQKazvpNR1HRS5/s1600/DSC01764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8YY-5-jc4Y7ikiV2Rm1lHzKCIBeGYXXnaE1ajGX9M3_f_qOKx84V0nBgL6JVZI9A8DQZ4Ta2cs4PsvUXadyferrEu_Hso-eLdxN3yOSHiTfschWQxHkqllw57l4o1CTQKazvpNR1HRS5/s320/DSC01764.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palace on the Water<br>
Source: Family pictures<br>
Author: Maciej P.</td></tr>
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<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong><em>Łazienki Królewskie</em></strong> (or <strong><em>Park Łazienkowski</em></strong>) is the largest park in Warsaw, Poland (76 hectares).</div>
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The Park is full of interesting buildings, sculptures, monuments and beautiful gardens.</div>
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It's a must-see place in Warsaw!!!</div>
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It was created in XVIII century for Polish King <em>Stanislaw August Poniatowski</em>.</div>
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The park-and-palace complex is located in the city center, and is considered to be the one of the most beautiful parks in Europe.</div>
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Loved by tourists and loved by locals, the Łazienki Park used to be a summer residence of the King <em>Stanislaw August</em>.</div>
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The name <em>Łazienki Królewskie</em> means literally "Royal Baths", from a bathhouse that was rebuilt and transformed into the King's Palace, known today as <strong>Palace on the Water - <em>Pałac na Wodzie</em> </strong>or <strong>Palace on the Island -</strong> <strong><em>Pałac na Wyspie</em>.</strong></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_fYgm_4PfXKMcmd6kCSF3AIORmQUHsks7-TYz_pdhBrM-CFgtSP-IO2D3Cs0aQxT6XcxP6tLdG1iDakFAmYNk42BlqoX7nMff_ZXZCxmc4JAoczzybnMoowwbNQG5V8SlBh6sjnxryct/s1600/DSC01748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_fYgm_4PfXKMcmd6kCSF3AIORmQUHsks7-TYz_pdhBrM-CFgtSP-IO2D3Cs0aQxT6XcxP6tLdG1iDakFAmYNk42BlqoX7nMff_ZXZCxmc4JAoczzybnMoowwbNQG5V8SlBh6sjnxryct/s320/DSC01748.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closer shot<br>
Source: Family pictures<br>
Author: Maciej P.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Roller skating, skateboarding and biking are banned in the park. </div>
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Chasing peacocks or squirrels across beautiful green grass isn't recommended either. (I know, everyone wants a snap shot of that beautiful peacock !... :-) </div>
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Squirrels - spoiled by the visitors, come close enough to get food. They might even share a bench with you, and eat nuts from your hand! Be careful though... What if you meet some crazy squirrel (crazy enough to bite you??? ;o)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWc2nQMtiIXzpsyWqcgECdibNipuSW3ouWAX-AIDZvbhoZ0vqkjFZTkwt0ZeHy7xffZgtb5A5QrWwM9chYT-j4MQtKnXeS7EIzEsDkXKBVFcgoe6bLajHKhIoqfPd42YSEEhizgg2Yajr5/s1600/DSC01746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWc2nQMtiIXzpsyWqcgECdibNipuSW3ouWAX-AIDZvbhoZ0vqkjFZTkwt0ZeHy7xffZgtb5A5QrWwM9chYT-j4MQtKnXeS7EIzEsDkXKBVFcgoe6bLajHKhIoqfPd42YSEEhizgg2Yajr5/s320/DSC01746.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peacock - one of many in the Łazienki Park<br>
Source: Family pictures<br>
Author: Maciej P.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Many cultural events take place in the <em><strong>Łazienki Królewskie Park</strong></em> and the most popular are <em>Fryderyk Chopin's</em> Concerts, that I mentioned before in one of the older posts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div>
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For a full history of the park, exhibits of the Royal Collections, pictures, etc. you might want to check this website: <a href="http://www.lazienki-krolewskie.pl/en,home.html" target="_blank">Lazienki Krolewskie</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For more pictures click <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=lazienki+park&hl=en&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=6XrsT-jfHcHOqgHkmtXVBQ&sqi=2&ved=0CF8QsAQ&biw=1366&bih=643" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaBh5O45vDdroPGnyMCCa_nqCgxZJhc2uz7WPLaK2wkW5t461vJF82ShD-NBeF8YttLaY1QLnj8TFdW327S59nj9P0qB6fftqsfXex1wKL7S5kZxy_-MmN009A5j0on9-XMN39HB8CtzG/s1600/DSC01752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaBh5O45vDdroPGnyMCCa_nqCgxZJhc2uz7WPLaK2wkW5t461vJF82ShD-NBeF8YttLaY1QLnj8TFdW327S59nj9P0qB6fftqsfXex1wKL7S5kZxy_-MmN009A5j0on9-XMN39HB8CtzG/s320/DSC01752.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amphitheater<br>
Source: Family pictures<br>
Author: Maciej P.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>T</strong><strong>he pictures posted here are</strong> <strong>courtesy of my cousin Maciej P. who is the author.</strong></div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-85359633154300284492012-06-08T08:17:00.000-07:002012-08-10T14:51:14.865-07:00EURO 2012 starts!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhENjHl0aKnRV0o3VYQYmgO8KqvN70dfdpDWjN2FiS1KMx5ld0qWbkguRaK_qcdwBWG6r4i9pCkZN5W5V8F-rmiSe1g2LugrAbvtyOO6XoY36UO35-aREWwllh4mi28BVYwBZRzh6X1flJ/s1600/200px-UEFA_Euro_2012_logo_svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhENjHl0aKnRV0o3VYQYmgO8KqvN70dfdpDWjN2FiS1KMx5ld0qWbkguRaK_qcdwBWG6r4i9pCkZN5W5V8F-rmiSe1g2LugrAbvtyOO6XoY36UO35-aREWwllh4mi28BVYwBZRzh6X1flJ/s1600/200px-UEFA_Euro_2012_logo_svg.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">EURO 2012 logo<br />
Source: Google<br />
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</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
Today, June 8, 2012</div>
<div align="center">
Poland will play with Greece</div>
<div align="center">
at the National Stadium in Warsaw.</div>
<div align="center">
Time: 18.00.</div>
<div align="center">
Good Luck Bialo-Czerwoni!</div>
<div align="center">
POLSKA GOLA!!! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-887107953929195952012-05-28T08:00:00.000-07:002012-06-03T13:35:02.479-07:00Mowa jest srebrem, milczenie zlotem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_-7Qnjfj9VtcWT3cXVWrk0Cexan6Rs9N2j9b-eadddgmEbABXoEhFWFu-wLWpto6-cFAO1ORCBGbE_oP9JXowMRBWbaqVt6Fccey8wNiVfxmFItLBN5JNUElKrl0N_Y1X0LPyBn-ojMk/s1600/Mowa+jest+srebrem.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_-7Qnjfj9VtcWT3cXVWrk0Cexan6Rs9N2j9b-eadddgmEbABXoEhFWFu-wLWpto6-cFAO1ORCBGbE_oP9JXowMRBWbaqVt6Fccey8wNiVfxmFItLBN5JNUElKrl0N_Y1X0LPyBn-ojMk/s320/Mowa+jest+srebrem.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-40347816393264215842012-05-24T17:17:00.002-07:002013-10-27T16:17:42.077-07:00Buraczki / beets - healthy side dish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PU0xHPzQjXPi2wYLYpbV4tgDdbhPvPu0awnUaFFRnHFCOmjoGTJbGbwhUSBmfH7cS2seuy3_b1H9-DOTszlCWM_o_0VRu9Lgx5h5pbm5RqIN0GwCbgofaL3ganBMyGPdWGL7esIcipIe/s1600/100_6916+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PU0xHPzQjXPi2wYLYpbV4tgDdbhPvPu0awnUaFFRnHFCOmjoGTJbGbwhUSBmfH7cS2seuy3_b1H9-DOTszlCWM_o_0VRu9Lgx5h5pbm5RqIN0GwCbgofaL3ganBMyGPdWGL7esIcipIe/s320/100_6916+-+Copy.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
<br>
<em>Buraczki</em> - beets, are very popular in Polish cuisine. <br>
I love them now, but it hasn't always been this way...<br>
<div>
As a child, I didn't like their look, so I was stubborn and I didn't want to try them. </div>
Until one day... Day at my aunt Zofia's house. It took only one look of "encouragement" and I was eating beets until they were gone from my plate! :) After I was done eating, all I had to say was how great those beets tasted! <br>
The meal was consisting of a pork chop with bread crust, mashed potatoes and beets. <br>
It's a very popular meal combo, so if you happen to visit Poland, big chance is that you are going to try it. <br>
When talking about beets, I can't forget to mention delicious beet soup - borscht /"<em>barszcz</em>". It's served with mini dumplings called "<em>uszka</em>", and it's definitely one of my favorites!<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHO4v8mB9OLp8yTlnQiS-emz5AFGCc7_tqXW9vI7LSAlV4vwtNwEsj4NOmlqqqtu7yP23gVenTi_fpflp2jezIL7-bf59n1c2OEH1zZgpqLIvDKf6AkIxHCKxkXFWbBVMDHWwnhyphenhyphenSpn8A/s1600/100_6918+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHO4v8mB9OLp8yTlnQiS-emz5AFGCc7_tqXW9vI7LSAlV4vwtNwEsj4NOmlqqqtu7yP23gVenTi_fpflp2jezIL7-bf59n1c2OEH1zZgpqLIvDKf6AkIxHCKxkXFWbBVMDHWwnhyphenhyphenSpn8A/s320/100_6918+-+Copy.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
<br>***Beets are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B1, folic acid and more.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOO2EWvSZB4qLH3HBO0sgccTJ8MukiKXRNYUGqrjgGLReETFMwqoTtOYaWtz5A3ET-z-gmtgzsAKi1sjD3YhbjKnfDr4IaVUaRtuEOnehmbe6uD7QuZ3JWup32Tp1twUDu3kqbSzc6Vqvb/s1600/100_6927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOO2EWvSZB4qLH3HBO0sgccTJ8MukiKXRNYUGqrjgGLReETFMwqoTtOYaWtz5A3ET-z-gmtgzsAKi1sjD3YhbjKnfDr4IaVUaRtuEOnehmbe6uD7QuZ3JWup32Tp1twUDu3kqbSzc6Vqvb/s320/100_6927.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQaV9cJ55URwofFPieaxDc9nk4MCJiwY_60TEMaVjmXop8TpZ3qXfWIXBdYvW65ht0CXIDhBuHTrYQx7Y6hBNwGdxlMKTYBYZNfCMT211WFnvhbkS0b7AFN87R8sUlACx7KzovgN-FNMkv/s1600/100_6934+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQaV9cJ55URwofFPieaxDc9nk4MCJiwY_60TEMaVjmXop8TpZ3qXfWIXBdYvW65ht0CXIDhBuHTrYQx7Y6hBNwGdxlMKTYBYZNfCMT211WFnvhbkS0b7AFN87R8sUlACx7KzovgN-FNMkv/s320/100_6934+-+Copy.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork chops with caramelized onions,<br>
mashed potatoes with skins and beets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<div>
<strong><em><u>Buraczki zasmazane / Fried beets:</u></em></strong></div>
<br>
4-8 medium size beets,<br>
1-2 Tbsp butter,<br>
sugar, salt, pepper to taste,<br>
*lemon juice to taste (optional)<br>
or:<br>
* 1 Tbsp (or more) horseradish<br>
and/or:<br>
* 1 Tbsp flour,<br>
* 2 Tbsp sour cream.<br>
<ul>
<li>Boil beets in skins until soft (30-45 min). Peel off the skins and grate beets finely.</li>
<li>In a frying pan melt butter. Add beets and fry for about 5 minutes on medium heat.</li>
<li>Season to taste with sugar, salt and pepper. Add lemon juice if desired.</li>
</ul>
*** If making <em><strong><u>Horseradish beets - "Buraczki z chrzanem":</u></strong></em><br>Add horseradish instead of lemon juice. You can also add flour and sour cream.<br>
<br>
These two are my favorite versions of fried beets. Hope you will like them too!<br>
<em>Smacznego!</em><br>
<br>
<em>Interesting fact about beets? ;o)<br>- Long time ago, women used beets juice to color their cheeks in order to look healthy </em><br>
<em>(red cheeks = healthy woman).</em>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-40007142587667824182012-05-21T08:00:00.000-07:002012-05-27T07:24:18.409-07:00Nie od razu Krakow zbudowano<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wLyT7vd6ReUKGxPL5IImlT8d2V1po3Mb5y3PMQWkX2zj4XWzH3oJkm7yT2x_a7TWS5Bl4tjkQBJqlFxs3qaUgk_dbNUIFbnplp4qMOY3NbBe9jj_Jita0al44H3r_96_K-kEzGcTVXbN/s1600/Nie+od+razu+krakow+zbudowano.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wLyT7vd6ReUKGxPL5IImlT8d2V1po3Mb5y3PMQWkX2zj4XWzH3oJkm7yT2x_a7TWS5Bl4tjkQBJqlFxs3qaUgk_dbNUIFbnplp4qMOY3NbBe9jj_Jita0al44H3r_96_K-kEzGcTVXbN/s320/Nie+od+razu+krakow+zbudowano.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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It's a very popular proverb.</div>
<div align="center">
However, in Poland, we're talking about Polish city</div>
<div align="center">
Krakow instead of Rome ;-)</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
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P.S. Krakow is a must-see place in Poland!</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-28027837915207286142012-05-17T08:47:00.000-07:002012-08-10T14:52:58.874-07:00Tarta truskawkowa / Strawberry tart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKj4iCnPD5M0U7NU0szK6aTI8QQHS16gufeWmczqB_xMvyn0HgJxdutWtDi72qKiubKDECAkaYeR5iwrKZgJSqoZxK-vrDyfMZetXQy5HC7EAHyA4dpVe8r4oW_y4mHqCEODSohYUrPrK/s1600/100_7047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKj4iCnPD5M0U7NU0szK6aTI8QQHS16gufeWmczqB_xMvyn0HgJxdutWtDi72qKiubKDECAkaYeR5iwrKZgJSqoZxK-vrDyfMZetXQy5HC7EAHyA4dpVe8r4oW_y4mHqCEODSohYUrPrK/s320/100_7047.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw3fI3yKznCN5i6K2ta_oLpQpDhQ8sJpopNbeQM2qaL3Nbn5ergI2VMxu6eOUzbbnx1zd-I68PcXM7b6o9dWoAR0kRSKQw_wviRKYon_vX9mHxkN8rFTHY0f5MnujP4GnSDkZbEfGdD8v/s1600/100_7033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw3fI3yKznCN5i6K2ta_oLpQpDhQ8sJpopNbeQM2qaL3Nbn5ergI2VMxu6eOUzbbnx1zd-I68PcXM7b6o9dWoAR0kRSKQw_wviRKYon_vX9mHxkN8rFTHY0f5MnujP4GnSDkZbEfGdD8v/s320/100_7033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><em><u>TARTA TRUSKAWKOWA / STRAWBERRY TART</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<em>Tart:</em><br />
150 g flour,<br />
100 g cold butter (cubed),<br />
50 g powdered sugar, <br />
1 egg yolk, <br />
pinch of salt, <br />
*1 Tbsp cream (optional)<br />
<ul>
<li>Combine all ingredients and form a ball. Leave in the fridge for 30 min.</li>
<li>Roll out the dough and place it in a baking pan. Pierce with a fork before baking.</li>
<li>Bake for 15-20 min at 400º F.</li>
</ul>
<em>Filling:</em><br />
3 Tbsp strawberry jam,<br />
1 lb strawberries,<br />
strawberry jelly, glaze or jam for coating the fruit<br />
<ul>
<li>Cool tart in a pan and spread jam on the bottom.</li>
<li>Arrange strawberries and coat them with strawberry jelly (liquid form), strawberry jam or fruit glaze.</li>
<li>Let cool in a fridge.</li>
</ul>
<em>Smacznego!</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>NOTES:</strong></em><br />
<em>- Jam can be replaced with cream cheese (1 box of cream cheese combined with 1/4 cup powdered sugar).</em><br />
<em>- Sliced strawberries are easier to work with when cutting and serving a tart.</em><br />
<em>- You can also use blueberries/raspberries and choose corresponding jam flavor.</em><br />
<em>- This time, I didn't have any jam at home, so I made my own:</em><br />
<em>In a small saucepan, combine 1 lb strawberries with 3 Tbsp sugar and 1 Tbsp water. Cover with a lid and cook on medium heat for 15-20 min. Let cool completely.</em><br />
<br />
<strong><em>VOCABULARY:</em></strong><br />
"<em>truskawka</em>" - strawberry<br />
"<em>truskawki</em>" - strawberries<br />
"<em>truskawkowa</em>" ("<em>tarta</em>"- tart), "<em>truskawkowy</em>" ("<em>smak</em>"-flavor), "<em>truskawkowe</em>" ("<em>lody</em>" - ice cream) - adjective describing things that are "strawberry" - examples above ;-)<br />
<br />
Have a strawberry summer / "<em>truskawkowe lato</em>" everyone! :o)Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-86618504840494867572012-05-14T08:00:00.000-07:002012-05-15T06:55:15.495-07:00Dla chcacego nic trudnego<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqT3N4FHA6UQ4pnX_dO3aeqosdEqNn-wlbFFhVzgWBybvOLFRuM1I457Jw2BCj_fHxHbkUMuLy89-ye9sA_JE6OlSFUrRaWkRoamZtVHiTIvTLwGbIeLr1a5yf99qKucOn4TazZDHj9OY1/s1600/Dla+chcacego+nic+trudnego.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqT3N4FHA6UQ4pnX_dO3aeqosdEqNn-wlbFFhVzgWBybvOLFRuM1I457Jw2BCj_fHxHbkUMuLy89-ye9sA_JE6OlSFUrRaWkRoamZtVHiTIvTLwGbIeLr1a5yf99qKucOn4TazZDHj9OY1/s320/Dla+chcacego+nic+trudnego.png" width="320" /></a></div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-84447650449728398472012-05-13T07:49:00.001-07:002012-05-13T07:49:17.569-07:00Do trzech razy sztuka<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0219utZzJZOCieBtMcZqmihRx83rNZXhbO92NNHtWQzxLTwXhA2ICNiI2DFT-d0OUqigOwbJQ5DmjHlamCoG4FO80oGw9ccgAflwh6anWrD_qXJLPelUKZxMGChqJ-FxGIpKh0Iu2FkwA/s1600/Do+trzech+razy+sztuka.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0219utZzJZOCieBtMcZqmihRx83rNZXhbO92NNHtWQzxLTwXhA2ICNiI2DFT-d0OUqigOwbJQ5DmjHlamCoG4FO80oGw9ccgAflwh6anWrD_qXJLPelUKZxMGChqJ-FxGIpKh0Iu2FkwA/s320/Do+trzech+razy+sztuka.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's a very popular saying!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't give up, try one more time!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And if you care about something a lot, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
forget about the saying... ;-)</div>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-29583102426112288822012-05-08T10:59:00.001-07:002012-09-09T14:17:02.730-07:00The Animated History of Poland<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/stEuQamTLXw?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Sharing this video via You Tube. The author did a great job. <br />
I thought, that some of you might be interested in watching.Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-41940664997341164642012-05-08T06:52:00.000-07:002013-10-27T16:21:14.967-07:00Ricotta pancakes with almond flavor (or without)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhmF9_so1I2gE9xuV6J_IC8BBc1zj_ONaDjsQrB3nugyy3b5m1zU_PIPgwY3lROImoR_J8GM2fQ-mtFKlAyIqiSgYs9uBXcKQhsvjyvkNvKv3z38DH84TYmpHaUjWa6ZH6fd3nKBpxAJm/s1600/IMAG4391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhmF9_so1I2gE9xuV6J_IC8BBc1zj_ONaDjsQrB3nugyy3b5m1zU_PIPgwY3lROImoR_J8GM2fQ-mtFKlAyIqiSgYs9uBXcKQhsvjyvkNvKv3z38DH84TYmpHaUjWa6ZH6fd3nKBpxAJm/s320/IMAG4391.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
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<br>
Nice for a change. <br>
This ricotta pancakes (like all possible pancakes) are on the top of my breakfast/dessert list.<br>
Serve them with blueberry/strawberry syrup, jam, maple syrup or with sugar only.<br>
<br>
<strong><em><u>Ricotta pancakes with almond flavor:</u></em></strong><br>
<u>Yield: 18 small pancakes </u><br>
<u>Ingredients:</u><br>
1 container (425 g) ricotta cheese,<br>
4 eggs, yolks and whites separated,<br>
1-2 Tbsp sugar,<br>
10 Tbsp flour,<br>
1 tsp almond extract (or vanilla),<br>
1 packet (16 g) almond sugar,<br>
your favorite toppings.<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMueH5D8rmIsxLs-7jXqyJWgM4gRmbMwqKkxnH1bBoaKkzZmQa9Ie0-ZIsh_6P94HMgX1lDvE07vZfN5dKwdV_zyyxER_9t8J8aZIrDvESMTVLs2eMah2OU2c3w96aVPxJoH9GqT4rEnR7/s1600/IMAG4379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMueH5D8rmIsxLs-7jXqyJWgM4gRmbMwqKkxnH1bBoaKkzZmQa9Ie0-ZIsh_6P94HMgX1lDvE07vZfN5dKwdV_zyyxER_9t8J8aZIrDvESMTVLs2eMah2OU2c3w96aVPxJoH9GqT4rEnR7/s320/IMAG4379.jpg" width="191"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almond sugar. Thank you Mamus :o)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<ol>
<li>Beat egg whites until stiff.</li>
<li>In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg yolks, sugar, almond sugar and almond extract.</li>
<li>Add flour and egg whites to the ricotta cheese mixture and mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.</li>
<li>Place full tablespoons of batter on the greased skillet. Fry until golden on both sides (I usually flip pancakes 3 times and flatten them with spatula).</li>
<li>Serve with favorite toppings.</li>
</ol>
<em>Smacznego!</em>Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-39446945259885835142012-05-05T13:58:00.000-07:002012-09-09T14:17:02.732-07:00House of Poland in San Diego, CAIf you live close to San Diego, you might want to visit House of Poland and its annual lawn program, that is going to be held tomorrow, May 6 th at 2 p.m.<br />
The lawn program is held on the first Sunday in May and commemorates the Polish Constitution Day, which is on May 3 rd.<br />
There will be music, regional dances and food.<br />
<a href="http://www.houseofpolandsd.org/" target="_blank">House of Poland</a> is a member of the <a href="http://www.sdhpr.org/Countries/Poland.html" target="_blank">House of Pacific Relations</a>, and is located in Balboa Park, in San Diego.<br />
Open every Sunday from noon until 4 p.m.<br />
<br />
I will definitely visit Polish cottage, next time I'm there!Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1703963425329742746.post-88829077838057563612012-05-01T12:54:00.000-07:002012-09-09T14:19:01.371-07:00I love May! Kocham maj!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwUjxmNmOdaXvA6rxv4Jz7iVzuRYevYiBveRsrowCzmazA-v2g2n1Rc6VCDPoQ-9u44OMOkrwIzKV9gQJKOd0fzbmoobzdto3FPHKumb7D1-r9sjK945U98cVJgt_md0lD24ubcivk7L3X/s1600/IMAG0594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwUjxmNmOdaXvA6rxv4Jz7iVzuRYevYiBveRsrowCzmazA-v2g2n1Rc6VCDPoQ-9u44OMOkrwIzKV9gQJKOd0fzbmoobzdto3FPHKumb7D1-r9sjK945U98cVJgt_md0lD24ubcivk7L3X/s320/IMAG0594.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Own source</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGpAF-yY30GqGgf3mJ_JbFdvBWZHTAL5huKGzN37GM2h7vVckqAByWgiMJ3LQ_5uWXQNOBS4HIB3eQd-nkpK0oTG_mDUAoMD-heyIi4UmIe-bMNL9dNgwJ0pPnqHrn_i7pwyk5ZieTYA0/s1600/IMAG4366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGpAF-yY30GqGgf3mJ_JbFdvBWZHTAL5huKGzN37GM2h7vVckqAByWgiMJ3LQ_5uWXQNOBS4HIB3eQd-nkpK0oTG_mDUAoMD-heyIi4UmIe-bMNL9dNgwJ0pPnqHrn_i7pwyk5ZieTYA0/s320/IMAG4366.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks like little birds like us :-)<br />
Own source</td></tr>
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<br />
May...<br />
Many people say that May is the most beautiful month of the year - "<em><strong>Maj jest</strong> <strong>najpiękniejszym miesiącem roku". </strong></em>And I agree...<br />
I love May - "<em>Kocham</em> <em>maj</em>"!! :o)<br />
Sunny days, green grass, blooming trees and flowers - everything (and everyone) is waking up after long winter.<br />
People enjoy outdoors and take short weekend trips, that in Poland are called <a href="http://sweethomepolska.blogspot.com/2011/05/may-1st-labor-day.html" target="_blank">majowka</a>. <br />
Active or lazy, it doesn't matter - what matters is being close to the nature's beauty!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEzPZ4ASHaAE3gGyRff2Rtuno1hZ3e8NYPQinbOtyZ_5tyNMo-YI26w9pmlzYhkWE707lfyFTw0OuXxVUkutJNm8PHGaSbb6PYSLvKfp6jiWaaj3QWPnA-X0cxsNaD3ocYO_fiF1EHurx/s1600/IMAG4306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEzPZ4ASHaAE3gGyRff2Rtuno1hZ3e8NYPQinbOtyZ_5tyNMo-YI26w9pmlzYhkWE707lfyFTw0OuXxVUkutJNm8PHGaSbb6PYSLvKfp6jiWaaj3QWPnA-X0cxsNaD3ocYO_fiF1EHurx/s320/IMAG4306.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying spring with my camera ;-)<br />
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Minnesota truly reflects four seasons that I experienced in Poland. <br />
This place feels so homey to me.<br />
And spring gives me the biggest kick of all :o) <br />
Every little thing, that I find similar to life in Poland, is exciting!<br />
Lots of trees and lakes, birds singing all day long and laying eggs in our flowers, lilac... <br />
I adore it!<br />
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A few days ago, I snapped a photo of baby lilac next to our house - it should bloom in a month or so... <br />
Can't wait!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3gf3rI6tiy_i2xpKhgKlNOLLGiuInH3xvWwdtsj0DfuBMGd-j0DXVB_U4joIPyhrfAA-tf2OFx1I9HdBnpvpYjaOe2maAOX7CwDnoJXMK3ZR3N-2OV87nw6qiE5noiFAlltyuBAyJzxt/s1600/IMAG4345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3gf3rI6tiy_i2xpKhgKlNOLLGiuInH3xvWwdtsj0DfuBMGd-j0DXVB_U4joIPyhrfAA-tf2OFx1I9HdBnpvpYjaOe2maAOX7CwDnoJXMK3ZR3N-2OV87nw6qiE5noiFAlltyuBAyJzxt/s320/IMAG4345.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little baby lilac.<br />
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I wish everyone great "<em>majowka</em>" trips, lazy picnic days and time to enjoy fresh, springy air!Sylwiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07044545321727294155noreply@blogger.com0