All posts by Debi Lander

Discover Roman Ruins in Morocco: Volubilis

I never guessed I’d visit Roman ruins during my trip to Morocco. Naturally, I’ve seen the Forum and Colosseum in Rome and other archeological sites in Italy,  Croatia, Jordan, Greece, and England’s farthest east- Hadrian’s Wall. But Morocco? 

My small group was headed there, however, we arrived in a rainstorm. Fortunately, it slowed to a light drizzle during a tour that took us back in time to a picturesque place.   

Roman Ruins of Volubilis after a storm
First look at the Roman Ruins of Volubilis, Morocco
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Lemon Blueberry Cake Using the Reverse Creaming Method

I’ve made this recipe three times and declared each one a winner; a light, creamy cake with a burst of lemon and blueberry goodness. The first time I baked it for Easter, and the following two times for birthday celebrations. You can make it any season of the year by substituting frozen blueberries for fresh. 

For a tall and impressive presentation, I divide the batter between three pans to make a three-layered cake. However, you can use two larger pans and adjust the baking time. 

A three-layer lemon blueberry layer cake.
Lemon Blueberry Triple Layer Cake

The most significant difference in preparation, at least for me, involves the reverse creaming method. You don’t cream the butter and sugar to start. Instead, you begin by adding softened butter one tablespoon at a time into the flour mixture. It looks like sand or pie dough before the liquid is added. The reasoning behind this method is to ensure the butter gets evenly dispersed throughout the batter.  

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Discover Morocco’s Blue City: Chefchaouen

Whenever I see an Instagram photo of Morocco’s Blue City, I turn a bit green, as in green with envy. The wildly colorful town in the Rif Mountains of Northern Morocco offers photographers a windfall of image possibilities, and I didn’t get enough. I arrived during a rain storm, and while the weather cleared in the evening, my itinerary only gave me a few hours more in the morning. I found the inviting maze-like warren of winding pathways captivating, and I’d love to return. 

Houses, doors, and sidewalks are painted blue in Chefchaouen.
The Blue City: Chefchaouen
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