Month: February 2022

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Trail Camera Raccoons In The Backyard

Hi Friends,
Here is a family of raccoons that come and visit at night. My trail camera captured these cuties sneaking around the back of the woods. It was a rainy day in February, but the late-night munchies did not stop these from raccoons searching around for a snack. Now, given this situation…I can relate! 😆
Warm Regards,
Debra

Raccoons (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Raccoons (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), raccoons are monogamous and breed primarily in late winter (January and February) after their first or second year. Following a gestation period of approximately 2 months, females give birth in April or May to a litter of two to four pups in a hollow den tree. Female raccoons wean their young at 16 weeks and continue to care for them for approximately 9 months. Raccoons inhabit most of the United States, including all of South Carolina, with population densities being higher along coastal areas than inland.

Bright Eyes, Raccoons. (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

BBC Raccoons Problem Solving Skills

Just For Fun

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Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve, S.C.

Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve, (c) Debra Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Debra Roinestad, Blogger.
(c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

On Sunday, I enjoyed a short and soul-cleansing hike at Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve. The area has a high vibration and calmness that clears away any stress. The trail is an easy hike about a 0.4 mile lightly trafficked loop located near Cleveland, South Carolina on Persimmon Ridge Road. The trail is used for hiking, walking, bird watching. Dogs are allowed on the trail too. What is magical about this place is that you can get to the top of the Blue Ridge cliff and have a wonderful view looking South into Northern Carolina.

Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Blue Ridge Cliff, Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve, (c) Debra Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L43NWtlikIU[/embedyt]

Video (c) Kurt Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Trees, Eva Russell Chandler Heritage Preserve. (c) Debra Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Moss shaped like a foot-print. (c) Debra Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022


Credit: Map from SC Trails Program

Eva Russell Chandler is home to several rare plant species including Grass-of-Parnassus, Indian paintbrush, and Divided-Leaf Groundsel. I found another rare species not yet identified on this trail, ‘Dimple Trout Lily’. More information on Dimple Trout Lily is in this link.

Dimple Trout Lily. (c) Debra Roinestad, The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Here is more information from a fellow blogger, Mark’s Photo Travel in this link.

I would put this on my visit list for anyone here in South Carolina or just visiting!

➡️ Address: Persimmon Ridge Rd, Cleveland, SC 29635
It is located about 7 miles from the entrance where Persimmon Ridge Rd connects to 276 highway. Once up drive up a hill, there is a large sign that clearly marks the preserve.

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Chicken Fajita in a Wok (Stir-Fry Chicken Fajita)

Wok this way. I have discovered a new way to make chicken fajitas and it’s super fast, easy, and fun. Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing the Wok! The wok is not just for Asian stir fry meals, you can make your favorite dishes as you would use a kitchen skillet. The bottom of the wok heats up to 700 degrees and locks in all the flavors…the food browns rapidly. Honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever go back to a skillet after cooking chicken fajita (stir-fry) in a wok. Plus, it’s a wonderful gluten-free meal.

Chicken Fajita, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

The wok I have been using, Gold Dragon Heritage Edition is moderately priced and does the job. But do research which wok works best for you. Just remember that when you get a new wok you must ‘cure’ it with heat and oil before using it. You can find this exact wok here at this link.

Gold Dragon Heritage Edition Wok (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Here is a video that shows you how to season your wok.

How to season your Wok (Gold Dragon Heritage Edition)
Jump to Recipe

Remember to use your oven vent or open a window once you add the food to your wok. The high heat will cause a smoking effect. See youtube video here.

Also, be sure not to use a metal utensil when cooking with your wok. Use only wooden spoons to stir or tongs with a plastic tip.

Cooking tools, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Chicken Fajitas in a Wok

The Comfy Cabin
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese, Mexican
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil NOTE: It's important to use oil that won't damage your wok. The oil has to have a high smoke point. Other oil options are sesame oil, grapeseed oil, or coconut oil. Research the best oil to use for your preference.
  • 2 chicken breast, sliced into strips Optional: You can use half a bag of frozen chicken strips to save time.
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
  • ½ cup mushrooms
  • ½ tbsp Garlic Powder
  • ½ tbsp Onion Powder
  • ½ tbsp Cumin Powder
  • ½ tbsp Paprika Powder
  • ½ tsp Chili Powder
  • salt and pepper
  • Almond Tortillas or Corn Tortillas NOTE: I usually use gluten-free tortillas. You can use regular flour tortillas if you wish.
  • Fixings for Chicken Fajitas:
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese NOTE: I use dairy-free cheese.
  • Red Salsa
  • Sour Ceream
  • Guacamole 

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl add the cut peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
  • In another bowl add the sliced chicken along with the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt and pepper.
  • Add avocado oil to your Wok and heat at a super high temp. about 4 mins.
  • Add onions, peppers, and mushrooms and stir fry for about 3 mins.
  • Add chicken strips along with the spices and stir fry for another 5-8 mins.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Shortcut:
Use Mexican pre-mixed seasoning. About 1 tsp.
My favorite is Frontier CO-OP – Mexican Fiesta Seasoning or 
Penzeys – Fajita Seasoning

Here are two of my favorite Mexican Seasonings that are already mixed and saves time.
You can find my favorite Mexican Fiesta Seasoning here in this link.

You can find Penzeys Fajita Seasoning in the link below.

https://www.penzeys.com/online-catalog/fajita-seasoning/c-24/p-387/pd-s

Siete Almond Flour

For the gluten-free tortillas I used Siete Almond Flour Wraps. You can find these wraps in this link.

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Why Visit Table Rock Sate Park SC

One of the many reasons I like to visit Table Rock State Park is that I can visit the funky mallard duck that swims by each day. But seriously, it’s one of the best places to go and chill during the week or weekend. The visitors center has an adorable shop and lovely sales on hoodies, blankets, hats, and home decor.

Mallard Duck, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Dock, Table Rock State Park, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Then there’s a dock where you can admire a closer view of Table Rock Mountain. That’s where I met my funky duck friend. Watch him on youtube here. Also, you can rent paddle boats or canoes during the summer months.

Table Rock State Park, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Table Rock State Park, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

This place is magical. If you are visiting South Carolina, stop by to refresh and renew.

For information click on this link.

Kind Regards,
Debra & Kurt

Debra & Kurt (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
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Cabin Lights At Night

Solar Garden Lights (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

I just love these twinkle lights at night. It gets very dark here in the woods so these lights add a little comfort and enjoyment. You can brighten your home with these lights too. I listed them below this page or click on the link here. Plus, other lovely garden lights that I have used to decorate around the cabin.

Solar Garden Lights (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Solar Garden Lights (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

My Favorite Amazon Finds

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What I love about the Ocicats

My sweet girl, Anna loves to hide inside the cabinets in the morning. It’s has become one of her daily rituals. This breed has been known to have a playful side. Here is a youtube of Anna doing a quick silent roar.

Anna, The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Alexander, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Alexander is two months younger than Anna. Both were born in Georgia and are a couple of love birds. Whatever adventure they encounter…they need to be together. Watch him play ball here.

Here is what I love about Ocicats

  • They are pet friendly.
  • They are people friendly.
  • They are intelligent. Ocicats respond to their names and actually understand when their humans are chatting with them.
  • They have a sense of humor and do tricks. Some do play fetch. They are known for their dog-like behaviors.
  • They are gentle and loving.

Fun Facts about Ocicats

They love to eat

  • Sheba
  • Purina Fancy Feast Broth
  • Treats: Eden Bonito Flakes – (I got this tip from a professional cat behaviorist.) More about Bonito Flakes here. P.S. I love them too!
  • Plus, you can never go wrong with a little bit of can tuna.
What are Bonito Flakes?
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Trail Camera- Coyote with a Paper Plate

This one is my favorites. I had mentioned in a previous post how much I adore the coyotes I hear at night. See post here.

Well, I guess it’s lunchtime!

(c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Note: Keep your eyes on the bottom left side of the video. Coyotes move super fast!

S.C. Coyote-Trail Camera, Coyote with a paper plate, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

A coyote’s keen senses help them survive. With eyes that can spot the smallest movement, ears that can hear the faintest rustle, and legs designed for racing.
—Diane Swanson

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Roasted Zucchini with Cheddar Cheese

Yes, cheese please! For all the cheese lovers out there…here’s a healthy side dish that’s tasty and satisfying. 

Roasted Zucchini with Cheddar Cheese, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Zucchini is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Here are 12 Reasons why zucchini is healthy for you by the healthline website.

Jump to Recipe
Follow Your Heart (Dairy-Free and Vegan Products)

Note: I used dairy-free cheddar cheese from Follow Your Heart. They are a wonderful company that has an assortment of dairy products for those that are dairy intolerant.
More about them here.

Roasted Zucchini with Cheddar Cheese

The Comfy Cabin
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium-size zucchini, cut about ½ inch slices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • cheddar cheese or dairy-free cheese (Note: I used dairy-free cheese).
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 425° degrees
  • In a medium-size bowl toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 
  • Spread the zucchini on a baking sheet with foil underneath for easy cleaning. Add a little extra olive oil if desired. Be careful not to overlap the zucchini.
  • Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the zucchini.
  • Roast the zucchini for 10-13 mins. 
  • Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving plate.
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Trail Camera-Bears from the Summer of 2021

Hey Friends,

Here are two adorable pictures from the trail camera of the bears that usually hang around my backyard.

Warm Regards,
Debra Roinestad

Trail Camera, The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Trail Camera, The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Last year, the bears were hungry and went after the bird feeder on my deck. Then they visited me again…this time to show off their baby cubs!

To read more about this hairy situation click on this previous post below.

The Comfy Cabin, 2022
⬇️
Previous post below
Black bear and cubs visiting the cabin
(c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022

Bonus Video

Two Crows and a Squirrel

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Spicy Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob

Just the right amount of spicy flavor for your favorite main dish. Oven roasted corn is delicious, sweet, and spicy.

Spicy Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob, (c) The Comfy Cabin, 2022
Jump to Recipe
photo by Milada Vigerova

Spicy Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob

The Comfy Cabin
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears of corn on the cob
  • 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • ¼ tbsp paprika
  • ½ tbsp chili powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter or ghee
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400° F. Mix butter and spices in a bowl. Save half of the mixture and set aside.
  • Remove corn husk. In a sheet pan, spread the butter mixture over the corn in their individual foil.
  • After spreading the mixture fold foil around the corn.
  • Roast the corn for 40 mins.
  • After 40 mins. carefully spread the remaining butter mixture on the hot corn. Serve immediately.
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