Celebrate the Season with a Sweet Treat: Holiday Fruit Salad

Posted on 12/18/2024 by mapoll

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Fruit Salad

  • Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a dessert that looks and tastes amazing.
  • Perfectly Festive: The bright, vibrant colors of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cherries bring the holiday spirit to your table.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: This creamy treat is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a go-to choice for any festive occasion.

Holiday Fruit Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this holiday magic:

  • 1 can pineapple tidbits, drained
  • 1 can mandarin orange slices, drained
  • 1 jar maraschino cherries (no stems), cut in half
  • 1 cup miniature marshmallows (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream

Instructions:

  1. Mix the Fruits
    In a large serving bowl, combine the drained pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and halved maraschino cherries.
  2. Whip the Cream
    In a separate bowl, add sugar to the heavy whipping cream. Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, creating a luscious, fluffy cream.
  3. Combine and Fold
    Gently fold the whipped cream into the fruit mixture, ensuring the fruits are evenly coated. Add miniature marshmallows to your desired taste for extra fun and sweetness!
  4. Chill
    Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Serve and Enjoy!
    Spoon the chilled salad into bowls or onto plates, and get ready to hear those holiday "oohs" and "ahhs!"

A Few Tips to Make It Even Better

  • Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance, giving you more time to enjoy your festivities.
  • Variations: Add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
  • Serve with Style: Garnish with a sprig of mint or a cherry on top to elevate the presentation.

A Sweet Tradition Worth Sharing

The Holiday Fruit Salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition in the making. As you gather with friends and family this season, let this creamy, fruity delight be part of the memories you create.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, grab your ingredients, and let the holiday magic begin!

Happy Holidays and Sweet Celebrations from Our Kitchen to Yours! 

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Thanksgiving Reflections: Embracing Gratitude and Mystery

Posted on 11/22/2024 by mapoll

As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting not only on the traditional celebrations of gratitude and family but also on the unique blend of mystery and resilience that can define our lives. For those who have followed my journey through the Iconoclast Thriller series, you know that I’m captivated by the interplay of the supernatural with the profound lessons it can offer us in our everyday lives. This Thanksgiving, I’d like to share a few thoughts on finding gratitude in both the light and the shadowy corners of our experiences.

The Spirit of Gratitude in the Face of the Unknown

Throughout my novels, whether in Ravens Cove or Ingress, I’ve woven tales of Alaskan landscapes and characters who face daunting, often supernatural, challenges. These stories reflect my belief that even the darkest experiences can carry a hidden light. Thanksgiving gives us the chance to reflect on this duality: to find a deeper sense of gratitude not only for our blessings but for the unknown forces that shape us, even if we can’t always understand them.

In the same way that my characters must confront fear to find their way, perhaps we, too, can view our struggles as opportunities for growth. If there’s one takeaway from my stories, it’s that even when our lives seem filled with shadows, there’s an ever-present thread of resilience and faith waiting to be discovered.

Sharing Stories and Preserving Traditions

Thanksgiving is a time when many of us gather with family, sharing meals, laughter, and—of course—stories. For me, storytelling is a timeless tradition that connects us not only to our loved ones but to something greater than ourselves. Much like the folklore that inspires some of my works, our shared stories become a bridge, connecting us to those who came before and guiding those who will follow.

This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to gather around and share a tale or two. Perhaps a ghost story inspired by a dark, foggy night or a funny family memory passed down through generations. These stories are our legacies—they remind us of who we are and keep our traditions alive.

Recognizing Life's Hidden Blessings

One of the themes I explore in my novels is the idea of finding strength through hardship. My characters often face supernatural forces that challenge them in unexpected ways, and they emerge from these trials with a new understanding of themselves. Thanksgiving offers us a similar opportunity to reflect on life’s hidden blessings. What moments, however difficult, have helped shape you into who you are today? What small acts of courage can you find gratitude for in your journey?

I believe that, like my characters, we grow the most when we’re willing to face our own shadows. Thanksgiving invites us to see these moments of growth as blessings and to hold space for gratitude, even for the struggles that have tested us.

A Thanksgiving Toast to Mystery and Gratitude

As we gather this Thanksgiving, let’s raise a glass to the mystery, resilience, and blessings—both obvious and hidden—that make life so rich. May this season bring you closer to those you love, and may you find gratitude in the familiar warmth of family and the quiet wonder of the unknown.

From my heart to yours, here’s wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with love, stories, and a touch of supernatural inspiration.

With gratitude,
Mary Ann Poll

 

 

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Exploring St. Donat’s Castle: Wales’ Haunted Past

Posted on 03/13/2024 by mapoll

A Glimpse into History

St. Donat's Castle, nestled in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, boasts a history dating back to the 12th century. Originally built by the de Hawey family, the castle has witnessed centuries of change, transitioning from a medieval stronghold to an elegant mansion under various owners.

The Ghosts of St. Donat's Castle

The Lady in White Witnesses have reported sightings of a spectral woman clad in white robes, believed to be a former inhabitant of the castle. Her ghostly figure has been seen drifting through the corridors, often accompanied by an atmosphere of melancholy.

The Phantom Piper Many visitors have recounted hearing the distant sound of bagpipes echoing through the castle, despite there being no visible source for the music. Local legend suggests this phenomenon is the work of a Scottish piper who met his demise at St. Donat's Castle.

The Headless Horseman Stories of a headless horseman riding through the castle grounds have persisted over the years. While rare, those who claim to have seen him describe a spectral figure mounted on a ghostly horse, illuminated by an eerie glow.

The Crying Child Some visitors have reported hearing the plaintive cries of a child reverberating through the castle, particularly during the night. The origin of these sorrowful wails remains a mystery, though local tales speculate they may belong to a child who met a tragic end within the castle's walls.

The Phantom Pianist Reports have emerged of a phantom figure playing the piano in one of the castle's rooms. Witnesses describe hearing the haunting melodies emanating from the piano, despite the absence of any living musician nearby. The identity of this spectral pianist remains unknown.

Paranormal Activity and Experiences

Visitors to St. Donat's Castle have reported a variety of paranormal encounters, including sudden drops in temperature, unexplained noises, and sightings of shadowy figures. Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) recordings have captured mysterious voices and whispers, adding to the castle's reputation as a site of supernatural activity.

Conclusion

St. Donat's Castle stands as a testament to Wales' rich history, with its ancient walls steeped in mystery and intrigue. The reported sightings of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena serve as a reminder of the castle's haunted past. As visitors explore its hallowed halls and hidden chambers, they are left to ponder the enigmatic secrets that lie within its storied confines.

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Haunted Trees: From Iconoclast Thrillers to Alabama’s Tears

Posted on 03/06/2024 by mapoll

Ravens Cove, An Iconoclast Thriller, sets the stage for a series deeply entrenched in mystique and enigma. What many overlook is that the genesis of my tales lies in the real, tangible world, sparked by an object of eerie significance. For Ravens Cove, the spark came from an ordinary yet extraordinary tree – one that bore an uncanny resemblance to a human form, with limbs outstretched like arms and a canopy of leaves forming a semblance of hair. This arboreal enigma, dubbed the Hag Tree, became a central motif in three volumes of the Iconoclast series, embodying a persona all its own. Yet, it was in Gorgon, the third installment, that the true spirit harbored by the Hag Tree was unveiled.

In my pursuit of the supernatural, I stumbled upon an intriguing article concerning tree spirits – an excerpt from The Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Spirits by Rosemary Ellen Guiley. According to Guiley's research, trees have long been believed to be favored haunts for the lingering souls of the departed. Across diverse cultures, tales abound of spectral entities dwelling within the silent embrace of ancient oaks and towering pines.

In Northern India, local shrines nestled beneath the boughs of sacred trees seek to placate the resident spirits, while in the dense jungles of Mirzapur, the Bagheswar, a tiger godling, is said to dwell within the branches of the Bira tree, striking fear into the hearts of nearby tribes. The stories continue, weaving a tapestry of spectral encounters and eerie phenomena, spanning continents and centuries.

One particularly captivating anecdote emerged from the depths of rural Alabama, where in 1981, a pecan tree in the front yard of Mrs. Linnie Jenkins' home became the focal point of a supernatural spectacle. Dubbed the "crying pecan tree," its mournful wails echoed through the night, drawing thousands from across the United States in search of answers. Despite exhaustive investigations, no earthly cause could be found for the tree's lamentations, leading to speculation of a restless spirit haunting the grounds.

As crowds gathered to witness the inexplicable phenomenon, Mrs. Linnie herself capitalized on the curiosity, charging a modest fee for entry to her property. Yet, as swiftly as the cries had begun, they ceased, leaving behind a lingering sense of wonder and mystery.

In our quest for rationality, we often overlook the profound mysteries that lie beyond our understanding. What caused the pecan tree to cry? And what force, if any, brought an end to its sorrowful lamentations? Was it merely a natural occurrence, or did unseen hands intervene, appeasing a restless spirit trapped within the confines of the tree's ancient roots?

Such questions linger in the air, tantalizingly beyond the reach of comprehension. For those who revel in the mysteries of the supernatural, it is tales such as these that fuel our imagination and spark our curiosity, beckoning us to explore the unknown and embrace the inexplicable.

Until next we delve into the realms of mystery and wonder, stay curious, my friends.

 

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Pursuing Justice Beyond the Grave: The Ghosts of the Texas Rangers

Posted on 02/21/2024 by mapoll

In the vast and storied landscape of Texas, tales of the supernatural intertwine with the rugged history of the frontier. Among the most fascinating legends are those surrounding the Texas Rangers, legendary lawmen who have left an indelible mark on the Lone Star State. But beyond their earthly exploits, some believe that the spirits of these brave souls continue to roam, seeking justice from beyond the grave.

The Texas Rangers have long been revered for their courage, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to upholding the law. Yet, their encounters with the supernatural are less widely known but equally compelling. One such tale dates back to the 19th century when the Rangers were tasked with apprehending the notorious outlaw John Wesley Hardin.

Legend has it that Hardin, known as one of the most feared gunmen of his time, was finally brought to justice by a Texas Ranger named John Armstrong. However, even in death, Hardin's restless spirit is said to haunt the town of El Paso, where he met his end. Locals and visitors alike claim to have seen his ghostly apparition wandering the streets, a reminder of the Ranger's relentless pursuit of justice.

Another chilling account involves the ghost of Ranger William "Big Foot" Wallace, a larger-than-life figure known for his bravery and sharpshooting skills. According to local lore, Ranger Wallace continues to watch over the town of Columbus, Texas, where he once served as a lawman. Residents report seeing his spectral figure riding silently through the night, his presence a comforting reminder of the Rangers' enduring legacy.

But it's not only the Rangers themselves who are said to haunt the Texas landscape. In some cases, it's the criminals they pursued who refuse to rest in peace. One such example is the ghost of the outlaw Sam Bass, whose spirit is said to linger near Round Rock, Texas, where he met his demise in a shootout with Texas Rangers in 1878.

According to eyewitness accounts, Bass' ghost has been sighted near the site of his final showdown, his phantom figure appearing fleetingly before disappearing into the night. Some believe that Bass' restless spirit is still searching for redemption, while others see his ghostly presence as a warning to those who would stray from the path of righteousness.

The tales of the Texas Rangers' encounters with the supernatural are not confined to the distant past. Even in modern times, reports of paranormal activity continue to surface, adding to the mystique surrounding these legendary lawmen. One such example occurred in the early 2000s when a group of Texas Rangers investigating a cold case found themselves confronting more than they bargained for.

As they delved deeper into the mystery, strange occurrences began to unfold, including unexplained noises, inexplicable fluctuations in temperature, and sightings of shadowy figures lurking in the darkness. Despite their training and experience, the Rangers were unable to shake the feeling that they were not alone, leading some to believe that the spirits of the past were trying to communicate with them from beyond the grave.

These real-life accounts serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Texas Rangers and the enduring power of the supernatural. Whether seeking justice or redemption, the spirits of these legendary lawmen and outlaws continue to roam the Texas landscape, their presence a reminder of the state's rich and colorful history.

As supernatural enthusiasts, we are drawn to these stories not only for their intrigue but also for the glimpse they offer into the mysterious realm beyond our understanding. Whether skeptics or believers, we can all appreciate the allure of the unknown and the timeless fascination with the unexplained.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the dusty trails of Texas, keep an eye out for the ghostly figures that are said to haunt the land. You never know what otherworldly encounters await, or what secrets from the past may be waiting to be uncovered. After all, in the Lone Star State, the spirits of the past are never far away.

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