Words of Wisdom-Apologizing

Traveling Tuesday-Mildred

A while back I mentioned that I got my grandpa a book on Kansas Ghost Towns, well I don't think I've let him read more than 2 pages worth. I have confiscated it and have been inspired to look up these towns as I travel to visit friends, advocate for agriculture, or for "work" related trips.
One of my really good friends took me to some of the Ghost Towns or those on the verge.

Best know for:

History Lesson: Founded in 1907

The town went from being a cornfield to a booming town and now back to a cornfield, all within about 40 years. The building of a cement plant was a huge draw to the town and the real reason for establishment. Yet once hard times hit in during The Depression, most of the cement industry was moved to other towns and  Mildred dwindled.The cement plant is still stands and is a reminder of what the community once was like.

County: Allen

Population: As of 2010 is was 28

Location: Along Highway 59

Southwest Eggrolls

2 cups frozen corn, thawed
1-15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
1-9 oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry with paper towel
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
1-7oz can diced green chilies, drained
4 green onions, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 package of egg roll or wonton wrappers
Preheat oven to 425F. Line 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.

In a large bowl mix together corn, beans, spinach, cheese, chilies, onions, cumin, chili powder, salt and cayenne pepper. Using a small spoon, scoop a small amount of filling onto the wrapper. Starting at a corner, carefully start to roll the wrapper. When it’s slightly rolled, tuck in the two side and continue rolling to the last point. Wet your finger with water and dab a bit on the corner to seal the egg roll. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling, placing them slightly apart on the baking sheet.

Lightly spray the tops of the egg rolls with cooking spray and bake for 15 minutes, flipping them at least once during baking.

 (makes 48 mini rolls, or 24 regular rolls)

Scenic Sunday-Hay Capital of the World

YATES CENTER

History Lesson:
-Established in August 1875.
-County seat of Woodson Co.
-The  Courthouse was moved from Defiance to Yates Center along with several houses.  Today there are 30 buildings included in the historic Courthouse Square.
-The Yates Center Courthouse Square Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in May of 1986.





Took this picture because a friend of mine's last name is Steiner.

Gella's Diner

Last week I took a little road trip to western Kansas. Along the way we stopped in Hays and ate at Gella's Diner and Lb Brewing Co. I had eaten at Gella's a year ago, but needed a refresher. So when I told my mom I was going, she said, "Make sure you get the green beans!"

 I ordered the Friday Special of Fish Tacos with a side of green beans.

The tacos were good, but the green beans were amazing.

They also have Lb Brewing Co. As I've mentioned before I'm not a drinker, but with all the fun names of the beers and the hype ("A Meal In Itself") of the Oatmeal Stout I ordered one for my company.

The picture explains it all. I can hardly see where the beer is on the table. It was bitter and had an after taste of coffee. This might be to some people's liking but not ours!

I enjoyed the meal and would go back, he however was not impressed by his chicken fried steak. I guess next time I go, I need to take somebody different.

Location:117 E 11th, Hays, KS

History: Started in 2005. Read more here.

What I like about them: The owner was originally a rancher.

The decor and atmosphere. Its classy yet laid back. They have a stock tank as their hostess table, old road signs made into flowers- Yep, I'm kicking myself for not taking a picture, yet my company already thought I was weird for taking pictures of the food.

Repurposed Gift Tin

We had this old tin in a box to get rid of, I decided to repurpose it for  my best friends birthday. She is the type that likes hand made, one-of-a-kind items. 

BEFORE:

Funny thing is I went to an auction the next day and they had a tin just like this in a box. If I had wanted a matching pair I never would have been able to find another :)

AFTER:

I personalized it with their brand, and since her birthday is the same day as Kansas Day, I thought sunflowers fit perfectly. To top it off,  I filled it with chocolate chip cookies.

How I did it: Washed the tin with soap & water. Let it dry completely. Applied an all-purpouse house paint. Then painted details with acrylic craft paints. Sealed it with 2 coats of clear Krylon spray.

Words of Wisdom