Beautiful Living Style

Shh... I'm Reading

2012-01-26T09:21:00.000-05:00

I bought the girls scrabble piece necklaces for Christmas and they loved them. Then I found this cute little charm for myself from Home Studio over on Etsy. I think I'll fashion it into a bookmark instead of wearing it around my neck.

Where Do You Get Your Books?

2012-01-25T10:50:00.000-05:00

Over the past six months I've been culling my collection of books. I have two bookcases in my living room, one in the den, one in each of the girls' rooms, books stacked on tables in my bedroom, and I have countless piles taking up residence on miscellaneous desks and surfaces throughout my home. I have a lot of books.

Where did they all come from? Well, I buy a lot of my books—some from my local bookstore, and some (Hey, I need to save money in order to support my habit.) from online book sources. At least I feel like I'm doing my part to save real books. I don't mind going to the library on occasion, but I often want to keep my book longer than the allotted 2 weeks. I think you know by now that my affection for books far outweighs any rational thinking.

So, where do you get your books? Locally, online, at the library, or do you swap books? (Try paperbackswap.com or bookmooch.com.) Do you use an e-reader? Will the iPad and Kindle take over the world?

Curious minds want to know.

Image via Henry's books on Flickr

Planning and Plotting

2012-01-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

I'm a list-maker, a writer-downer, a chart-drawer, a planner. I like to see things in black and white, plain as day, so I understand where I'm going and just what I've been up to. Sometimes this is good and sometimes....not so much.

I suppose I do this to keep my monkey-mind from swinging on yet another branch. To control the
chaos in my head—just a little bit. After all, I'm used to working on a few things at a time while
simultaneously keeping my family from eating cheerios night after night. As all mothers know, we can do 2, 3, 4 things at once. Piece of cake. Until it isn't.

I was reading about a fellow blogger's newest musings just recently and found out that she's on a writer's retreat. All she has to do is spend time writing. If she's hungry, she'll eat. Then write. If she's tired, she'll nap. Then write. And if she wants to write for hours and hours on end, without interruption, she can do that, too.

I was green with envy.

With all my lists and plans and good intentions, I still can't keep on task. I still can't find a rhythm that
works for me—that allows me to do what I want to do versus what I have to do. Day after day I return to my charts and my calendar. I keep adding to my lengthy to-do list, moving the things I really want to do further down the page. I promise myself next week will be different. Next week I'll be able to settle my brain and just do it. Next week. As soon as...

Why do we do this to ourselves? The things we want to do are just as important as the things we have to do.

If I babble on about change and doing and being to all of you, dear readers, then I have to quit whining and just get it done. I have to reclaim some of that time just for me. So here's my new plan: I will create my own writer's retreat, or better yet, a writer's boot camp (File in, shoulders back, butt in chair, fingers on keys—type.) I will revert back to parenthood bribery tactics...."If you eat just one more bite, you can have a cookie." Maybe I'll even try to dangle a carrot in front of my nose. I'm not exactly sure. But whatever I do, I have to realize I'm the only one stopping myself.

So I leave you with this: If you are burning to do something, do it. No more excuses. Start your own boot camp and sit in that chair or jump out of it if you have to. Erase some of those "have-to's" on your calendar and replace it with space—some free time to do the things you want to do.

Hardware Store Decorating

2012-01-23T11:02:00.000-05:00

Need a little inspiration? Then walk down the aisles of your local hardware store. Create window curtain tiebacks with a swivel-eye snap hook, key ring, and some cording. Use rope (and a hot glue gun) to wrap around a dated lamp base or cover a shade instead.

Fashion pendant lights from a simple light kit and glass canning jars. Shop for decorative door knobs to use as a support for artwork or install a group of knobs onto a piece of wood to hold necklaces, belts, scarves or even towels if the knobs are large enough. Click here to find out how.

Or get real creative and tackle this funky coffee table using galvanized pipe fitting elbows. Click here for more hardware store decorating ideas.

Images scanned from Country Living magazine and via sources listed above.

Black and White

2012-01-20T10:53:00.002-05:00

Pure Inspiration. Look beyond basic black and white and see shades of gray (and brown).

F&B Pointing 2003, BM White Dove OC-17, SW Dover White 6385

BM Black Satin 2131-10, SW Black Fox 7020, MS French Bulldog Black

Image via Facebook

What Are You Reading?

2012-01-19T10:35:00.001-05:00

Nothing brings me more joy than a box full of books. Okay, my children, my husband, my dogs—but other than that, nothing brings me more joy. I love when my UPS man drops another box onto my porch with a wink and a smile....wondering how soon he'll be back. Today I'm expecting another box, but this one is for my youngest daughter. (Lucky girl.) I'm sure it will cheer her up after a long day of schoolwork and choir practice.

I just finished Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah this past weekend. Her characters leapt off the page and I was a wreck by the time I closed the book. My husband looked over at me with a smirk on his face that said, "Again? Really?" He wonders why I put myself through such torment over "fictional" characters.

I'm half-way through Diane Keaton's memoir, Then Again, which is really a love letter to her mother. She has melded together some of her fondest memories with a collection of entries from her mother's journals into a book that is tender and sweet, funny and heartbreaking.

I'm also knee-deep into yet another book about writing (Robert's Rules of Writing) which I'm rather enjoying although not fully agreeing with. Sorry Bob. I do like his no-nonsense approach and most of his tips are spot on, so if you want to snatch up a copy, just be sure to understand that what works for some writers doesn't always work for others—and vice versa.

I have several books stacked neatly on my shelf waiting to be read with the word "sister" in the title (hmmm, I wonder what that means?) and a couple of books from an author I'm just getting to know both on the page and personally. I'm not sure if I want to save Maryann McFadden's novels until I hit the Cape or break with tradition and read pages filled with summer sunsets and beach sand when the snow starts to fall again.

And have I mentioned that I'm a Jane Austen fan? Well, I am. Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility are always around to keep me company, even if I just read a few pages here and there.

Image via vi.sualize.us

What's For Supper?

2012-01-18T14:17:00.004-05:00

I don't remember how I stumbled upon this Brooklyn cafe's website, but when I did, I was immediately drawn to their menu. Sure the food sounds delicious, but I get more jazzed up by the print, how it's laid out....you get the idea. And I'm a sucker for diner menus. I'm also one of those people who have to immediately check out a hotel's dine-in menu almost as soon as I bring in my suitcase. I know in another life, I will definitely sling some serious hash.

But another thing happened, too. I started to think about menu ideas for my own family. After the holidays and in between seasons, I get a case of the I-don't-know-what-the-heck-to-make-itis. I'm bored with my usual hits, but I can't seem to muster up the wherewithal to think up something new. (I'll cook; I'll clean, but please don't make me go to the grocery store—again!) Living here in the woods has its perks and its challenges, and one of them is the absence of a really good grocery store, the kind of store where you can find at least a few gourmet goodies. My grocery store leaves little to the imagination. This is when I miss living in the city most.

But menus can inspire this week's grocery list as well as what's for supper. If you print out your favorite menu ideas ala diner-menu-style, you and your family can have fun picking out your/their favorites and "order up" what's for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Then, simply print up a separate grocery list with the ingredients you'll need to whip up those dishes and you're good to go.

Just leave off the prices!

Small Space Organizing

2012-01-17T10:03:00.001-05:00

I spent my weekend reading through a few books, including this one from author Kathryn Bechen. The Baker Publishing Group contacted me to see if I'd give Kathryn's book a look, and since I was familiar with her work as a writer, I was happy to do so.

Kathryn's easy, breezy style makes you forget that you're reading a book about organizing. From dorm room living to downsizing after retirement (and every room in between), Kathryn's step-by-step practical and creative tips inspire you to look at your small space as a blessing, never a curse.

Filled with a bevy of resources and plenty of space for note-taking, Small Space Organizing will help you learn how to live large—in a small space.

Come on over to Facebook and enter your chance to win a copy!

Breakfast!

2012-01-13T11:06:00.000-05:00

Since dinner has been so hard for me to prepare lately, I've turned to breakfast foods to help me out of my rut. Once in a great while I would serve breakfast for dinner, but now French toast and pancakes, bacon and eggs, muffins and pastries, have all made their way onto my dinner (and sometimes lunch) table a lot more often than they used to.

For New Year's Day, we enjoyed a breakfast brunch: cinnamon rolls with hot chocolate and coffee when we woke up, and a spread of scrambled eggs, French toast, home fries, toast, bacon, and tea later in the day. And I'm getting another craving to do it all over again.

Growing up, my mother would cook scrambled eggs and home fries in bacon fat because my father and I don't like butter! (There, the secret is finally out.) I could never understand why Julia Child was so enamored with butter. But bacon fat....well, let me tell you, there are few things more delicious than cooking with the artery-clogging goodness of pure fat. Just check out Sydney's recipe for perfect breakfast potatoes over on Crepes of Wrath to see what I'm talking about. Mind you, I haven't cooked bacon the old-fashioned way in a very long time. To reduce the amount of calories and fat my family and I consume when we do splurge and eat real bacon, I'll microwave it to save our souls and to keep from cleaning a grease-smeared stove top, but once in a while... Is there anything more heavenly than the smell of fresh brewed coffee and bacon in the morning?

I was never a big fan of eggs either. I won't eat a fried egg, so it's only scrambled eggs for me. But the idea that you can mix together scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables, and savory meats—yum! I can scramble just about anything together and be happy. Check out this recipe for an egg scramble, known as a Garbage Plate, here.

When I'm not indulging in something sinful for breakfast, I eat almost the same thing every day. I think you'd find if you cracked me open, I'm probably 75% peanut butter. But that's a story for another day.

Breakfast sandwiches, granola and yogurt drizzled with maple syrup; banana muffins with dollops of raspberry jam, toasted pumpkin bread with fennel sausage, have now become treats just about any time of day. Breakfast is the perfect meal.

For more breakfast inspiration, head on over to Simply Breakfast where Jen Causey shares what she's been eating every morning. Check out Sydney's recipe for Bacon and Egg Cups which accompany her perfect breakfast potatoes. Then head on over to the Smitten Kitchen for a full menu featuring Baked Eggs, Chive Biscuits, and Bloody Mary's.

Gray Day

2012-01-12T13:48:00.000-05:00

This boy's bedroom isn't too masculine for me. A few tweaks here and there and I would have been happy to call this my bedroom growing up. On the walls is one of my favorite Benjamin Moore colors, Rockport Gray. This chameleon color has hints of brown and green and looks good in almost any light. Here are a few more favorites...

Color Inspiration: Benjamin Moore

Image via designdazzle.blogspot.com - Atlanta Symphony Showhouse

The Winter Table

2012-01-11T12:57:00.001-05:00

Be inspired by this table setting. Use cloth remnants, a set of table runners, or linen towels, and place them horizontally on the table. Layer in dishes, napkins, and glasses. Then gather up all of those fallen birch logs to use as candle holders. Simply cut out a hole at the top large enough to hold a small glass candle holder and votive. You can also wrap inexpensive candles with birch bark (tie together with raffia), or purchase a few already made candles here. Now top it off with an faux antler or two, and you've got the makings of a woodland tabletop fit for entertaining.

Image scanned from Family Circle magazine

Cozy Corners

2012-01-10T10:38:00.000-05:00

If you're up for bit of a change this winter, it's time to drag the furniture around, exchange a piece or two from another room and create a cozy corner you can call your own. I was inspired by this photo I found in House Beautiful. Setting up a small area of a room where you can enjoy reading, writing, coffee, tea, or just catch a moment of quiet is always a good thing. Recreate this look with a couple of unfinished or second-hand bookcases--even a large stack of crates would work--to hold books and collectibles. Purchase a large fabric remnant to toss over a round table (it won't matter what the table looks like) and add a lamp and more books. Now select a favorite chair and pair it with a table that is large enough to hold drinks and snacks and you're there.

Find a similar lamp here, and the chair here. And check out more of the makeover here.

Image scanned from House Beautiful magazine

Gizmos, Gadgets, and Tools...

2012-01-09T11:05:00.000-05:00

The right tool can really make a difference. After looking over my collection of magazine clippings featuring all sorts of gizmos and gadgets, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite ways to organize, fix and fuss around the house.

The assortment above is a clipping from House Beautiful and one of my newest. We're never without flashlights (#1) in all shapes and sizes (remember this post) and so when my youngest daughter and I left the house so I could drive her to a sleepover, she mentioned half-way there that she needed a flashlight. I had two in the car for her to choose from. We never leave home without one. And someone (maybe me) is definitely getting a Swiss Army knife (#9 swissarmy.com) for Christmas next year. You never know when tiny scissors, a bottle opener, and a screwdriver may be needed.

Here are a few more tricks:

Baby powder is a must-have. I keep a large bottle in a bag so that whenever we visit the beach we can get rid of sticky stand. (It absorbs the moisture that makes sand cling to skin.) Sprinkle on sheets to instantly cool skin and combat humidity. Use it (sparingly) in between hair washings to absorb oil. (I'm told it can remove mold from books, too.)
Vaseline is another must-have product we have in our home. I use it to remove eye-makeup, heal and protect a small cut, and to help rings slide off fingers.
Use pillowcases to hold sheet sets. I don't know about you, but I can never fold bottom sheets into anything but a lumpy mess. Now you can take the mess and stick it in the matching pillowcase and voila.
Use a wet-wipe container to hold plastic bags until you can recycle them. They hold quite a bit.
Use a large piece of ribbon to hold earrings in a jewelry box. Simply pierce the ribbon and coil in up into a small circle to store. When you want to change earrings, you won't have to search for just the right pair.
Hang a small set of hooks inside a closet door to hold necklaces and to keep them from getting tangled.
Use bread tags to label computer cords. Right out labels in permanent marker.
Use egg cartons to store Christmas ornaments. Start stocking now in time for next Christmas!
Use walnuts to rub away scratches in furniture. (The meat, not the shell.)
If you don't have Goo Gone on hand, use peanut butter to remove pricetags and other gummy residue.
Pam cooking spray will stop hinges from squeaking if you don't have a can of WD-40.

Image scanned from House Beautiful magazine

Small Spaces

2012-01-06T10:43:00.000-05:00

Decorating magazines are filled with ideas about organizing in January. But what about living with less or downsizing? I think smaller spaces can look charming and cozy. In fact, some of my favorite rooms in my own home are actually the smallest ones.

Think up: If floor space is at a premium, then climb the walls. Bookcases, shelves, and cabinets can all become part of the architecture and add not only storage solutions to your rooms, but added depth and interest as well. Every table can serve as storage if it has drawers, too. These photos: The dresser on the left was converted to hide plumbing but still has enough space to hold towels and soaps. The plate rack above the sink allows dishes to dry without the need of precious counter space.

These photos: Closets are the perfect spot to think up. Outfit closets with shelves and drawers and don't forget to take advantage of the insides of doors which are perfect for hanging belts, scarves, and small purses. Small chairs need smallish tables, so if there's no room for a table lamp, simply choose a floor model instead.

This photo: Dining room or kitchen tables can serve multi-purposes if surrounded by a bank of shelves. Scoot tables up to the wall, and out of the way, and create a banquette using a bench and a few pillows to expand seating. Tables don't have to be in the center of a room, so go ahead and move the light fixture, too.

Images scanned from Better Homes and Gardens magazine

Vintage: Bringing Back the Postcard

2012-01-05T10:48:00.000-05:00

I spent some time last week pouring over old letters from friends and family, my husband and children, when I pulled out a stack of postcards from Paris a friend had written more than twenty years ago. I admired the stamp, the postmark, the weight of the paper. My box of cards and letters reminded me that a letter or note doesn't necessarily have to be long, as long as the message is clear: I care. So this week, I will purchase a stack of pretty postcards and grab a roll of stamps (29 cents vs. 44 cents for a letter) and I will send them off with a smile.

Image via philatelicdatabase.com

Organize Chaos

2012-01-04T11:44:00.001-05:00

At home, at work, and everywhere in between....getting organized is hard work, especially after the holidays. But here are a few tips that just might inspire you to finally make a change and get (and stay) organized for good.

Set up a desk and filing area in your home. Even if you don't work from home, it's always a good idea to have a place to sort, read, and file mail. This cozy spot may also inspire you to tackle a new project. And don't think you need a conventional desk either. A small table, round or rectangular, will work just as well. (Hide dents and faded paint with a pretty cloth.) Treat this area as your own special place to hang photos or pictures that inspire you.
You don't need a filing cabinet either. The Container Store or office supply companies offer an array of portable file boxes that will keep daily paper clutter and important files nearby. If you're a terrible filer, simply gather 12 folders marked January through December and file away anything and everything that comes through the door in the appropriate month. If plastic isn't your thing, hide files in large baskets or tuck them under fabric draped tables.
As paper comes in the door, don't toss it on the desk. Recycle the excess and place bills in a pretty basket filled with envelopes, stamps, return address stickers, and your checkbook. Keep this out in plain view to remind yourself that these are the things that need your immediate attention. And you'll have everything at your fingertips to get the job done.
Purchase a binder to hold all of your home's important papers, schedules, appliance warranties, even take-out menus.
Corral all of your holiday wrappings—paper, bows, ribbons, tags—into a large bin or bag and make note of what you'll need for next year. (Take advantage of those sales now!)
Don't forget to stock up on all things organized and treat yourself to plastic bins and totes that will make your life a little less messy.

Image scanned from Good Housekeeping and House Beautiful magazines.

Change

2012-01-03T12:59:00.002-05:00

A new year, a new job, a new season....some changes happen naturally and some we set into motion ourselves, always with good intentions. But I'm not good with change. I order the same breakfast at our local diner, I buy the same style clothes year after year; I even recreate traditions down to the smallest detail. Sameness suits me. I find comfort in the expected. And yet I long for a little shake up. A baby shake.

Is this a middle age thing? Am I bracing myself for what's around the corner? When the kids are gone, when it's just the two of us, when I can enjoy the fruits of my labor, travel the world, and rekindle a little romance with my husband? Even if I'm secretly looking forward to some of them? Change is hard and I'm holding on so tightly to my past that any change, even the smallest of changes, sends me reeling. Yet some of the most important decisions I have ever made, and some of the most rewarding aspects of my life, were the results of some very big changes. Maybe this is why I like same. All that upheaval early on in my life has made me happy with old and familiar.

I've made some pretty big changes in the way I do business in the last 2 years and I feel more are on the way. These changes have been mostly good, although I have yet to cut the cord completely and really reach out to grab another brass ring, but I've made a good start. I just wish I had made it earlier in my life.

And then, sometimes change is taken completely out of your hands.

I was in the bookstore a couple of month ago, browsing through the stacks, when I came upon a copy of Our Bodies, Ourselves. I had owned a copy of this book about 25 years ago, before I became a mother and before I started to think about anything beyond what a normal 20-something woman would think about. I was more curious than anything else.

As I thumbed through the pages, I skipped chapters and chapters of information about bearing children, sexuality—all of the things I've either already experience or (I think) I have a pretty good handle on. Three quarters of the way into the book I discovered that I have moved into new territory, I have a new identity, a new box: 45-65. What happens to my body now is written about in chapters outlining menopause, osteoarthritis, and "our later years". Oh boy. I had to re-read a few sentences before I was even comfortable enough to get use to my new role as "older woman". It's kind of like watching those commercials for seniors age 50+, for term life insurance, retirement communities and the like, and realizing, I'm almost there.

And if seeing it in print isn't proof enough, every hair that falls out of my head is grey—thick, rough, make-no-mistake-about-it-it's-grey, grey. It's as if I have crossed over into some unknown territory—middle-age land—where adults come to take a good look at their past and a sober look into their future. Talk of grandkids, 401ks; all mixed in with college tuition have now become part of the 5-year plan.

Change is supposed to equal growth, opportunity. All positive, all good. Yet sometimes so hard to accept.

We may not be able to do anything about the changes to our bodies but we can do something about changes of heart. We can choose to play up the positive and denounce the negative. We can choose to look beyond what's right in front of us and believe we've been given a great opportunity when change comes our way. An opportunity to shake things up. To be brave enough to make a change, no matter how small. No matter what.

Winter Break

2011-12-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

It's December 23rd and we finally have some snow. I can only recall one green Christmas in the 18 years I've lived in New Hampshire. Thankfully this isn't the second. I am taking some time to be with family and enjoy some quiet time here in the woods. I plan to write letters to my children, watch old movies, play in the snow with the dogs, and just be. I wish you all a wonderful Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and a blessed New Year.

Image source unknown, credit to the photographer

New Year's Eve

2011-12-22T09:18:00.006-05:00

Sinatra and Dan Fogelberg on the stereo, vintage noise-makers waiting to be shaken sitting on the table, a split of champagne chilling in the refrigerator, and a crock-pot full of sweet-n-sour meatballs waiting to be eaten. Yes, just like Christmas and every other holiday or special occasion that I celebrate, I have a few New Year's Eve traditions, too.

As the girls have gotten older, they tend to make their own plans leaving hubby and I to curl up at home with the dogs and marvel at the lights and decorations for just a little longer. Sometimes we head to our neighbor's home early in the evening to wish them well and share a toast, and sometimes we just hang out in the living room talking about the year that's about to end. And a couple of years ago, I started a new tradition....a kind of take on the bucket list, if you will. It's called a what-I've-accomplished-so-far-but-still-want-to-do list. Catchy name, huh?

After writing out our bucket lists a few years back, I thought it might be fun to think about all of the things we've already done instead of fretting about the things we may never do. Then I thought we should add some silly, not-too-adventurous things to our lists that we both know we could accomplish if we really tried. Here's a glimpse of mine.

Buy an Italian dictionary so I can prepare for my (someday) trip to Italy. If I don't make it, at least I'll be able to speak a few choice words to Cooper and Dante throughout the day quite beautifully.
Try one new recipe a month. I get bored cooking the same old things, yet I never take a leap of faith and cook dishes I've been dying to try, like Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin. (I think hubby will like this, too.)
End my day with music! I promised myself I would do this every single day, yet I don't. It's such a simple thing and I know it will bring a smile to my face.
Resume writing letters to my children. Instead of sending my son a birthday card this year, I wrote him a letter letting him know how much I love him. I need to do this more often and just because.

Now on to the recipe for those meatballs...

Sweet-n-sour Meatballs

2 lbs. lean ground beef

2 tsp. garlic powder

2 eggs

2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs

1 lg. onion, minced

1 can frozen grape juice

1 can frozen lemonade

1 Sm. can tomato paste

Mix garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and bread crumbs with the ground beef and mix well. Roll mixture into dime-sized meatballs. For the sauce, combine the grape juice, lemonade, tomato paste and onions into a crock-pot or large pan. Add meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 30 minutes until done.

Growing up, I thought these were my grandmother's Swedish meatballs only to learn that Swedish meatballs taste nothing like this and the recipe came from an aunt's friend, and not my grandmother. It's always a good idea to ask the origin of "family" recipes.

Image unknown source, credit to the photographer

Time for a Change

2011-12-21T10:17:00.005-05:00

For years, we divided our holidays between families. Sometimes we would eat dinner at one house and dessert at the next, or we would spend the evening with one family and head on out the next day to be with the other. Round and round we'd go making sure we fit everyone in, making sure everyone else was happy.

In the early years of our relationship, my husband and I were slowly finding our own way and separating from the way we lived with our parents and siblings to the way we lived as young adults, then as a married couple, and then as parents in our own right. It's not that easy for everyone to adjust, including husband and wife. Holidays were another matter.

In the years to come, we started spending more time on the road than actually making merry with our families, never mind enjoying the day with one another. Looking at twinkling break lights instead of the lights on our tree did not put us in a festive mood. The holidays were starting to feel more like and obligation than a celebration. As much as we loved seeing everyone, I finally put my foot down—Christmas would be spent at home.

Our families weren't too thrilled with our declaration. Their feeling was that holidays, every single holiday, should be spent with family—parents, siblings, the whole shebang. They never really said anything out loud, but they weren't fooling anyone. Pained silence said it all. But, we stuck to our guns. Now we spend Christmas day in our PJs watching old movies and walking around crumpled up wrapping paper. Presents remain under the tree and I don't have to worry about the house being meticulously clean for company. Dishes get piled in the sink because we're too busy throwing popcorn at the dogs, and at each other, and filling our mugs with more hot chocolate.

We have melded old and new traditions together, let go of some old and started some new ones, too. We host Christmas dinner every other year for anyone who doesn't mind coming our way for a change. And we don't begrudge anyone if they don't. We get it. Everyone deserves to spend the holiday they way they want to. And that includes spontaneous popcorn throwing.

Image source unknown, credit to the photographer

The Big Day

2011-12-20T12:13:00.000-05:00

Don't let the day get away from you. Here are a few suggestions on how you can enjoy this time with family and friends.

Make everything shiny and bright. Polish your silver and glass till in shines. Use crystal, silver and gold everywhere you can. Tie gossamer ribbons around champagne or wine glasses. Light some candles and turn on the Christmas lights.
Don't forget the fireplace. Have it ready to light and prepare fragrant bundles of dried herbs, citrus or some scented pine cones to toss at will.
Simmer a crock of water filled with orange peel, clovers, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg. Your home will smell heavenly.
Don't forget ice globes and luminaries. Fill decorative bags with sand and set a votive candle in each one to welcome guests. If it's cold enough, freeze a bucket filled with water by placing another smaller bucket (weighed down with rocks) inside. Once it's frozen, place a candle inside and light them every night.
If a family member who lives far away can't make the trip this year, gather everyone around the table or the tree and record greetings and well-wishes. Have the kids perform a little skit and capture candid moments like opening presents and kissing under the mistletoe. Wrap it up in a beautiful package and send it off as a New Year's gift.
Record Grandma and Grandpa's memories of Christmas' past and what life was like when they were children. Ask them about the Christmas your Dad got his cowboy hat and six shooters. Everyone will want a copy of this video.
Bring Christmas cards to the table and let everyone read who they're from and any notes they might have sent along.
Hold hands during grace.

When the table is set, the meal is almost ready, the guests are about to sit down and everything looks wonderful....take a moment to reflect and appreciate all of your efforts. Take a picture or two while you're at it and don't forget to take pictures when the day is in full swing. In the years to come you'll be happy you did. I look back on family holiday pictures from years ago and smile at our goofy faces and crazy fashions. The lop-sided tree doesn't seem so important anymore. Remember what the day really stands for and take a moment to be thankful for all you have.

Image via pintrest

Company's Coming

2011-12-19T13:10:00.004-05:00

Whether it's for the holidays or another big occasion, hosting people in your home can be both gratifying and stressful. By planning ahead, you can avoid some of the stress that will save you, and your guests, from a few headaches.

Set up a guest room or an area just for your guests, with towels and toiletries just for them. Fill a basket with soap, shampoo, toothpaste and an extra toothbrush just in case. If you'll be sharing a bath, talk about scheduling shower and bath time before you say goodnight.
You don't need to make every meal from scratch. Pick up ready-made goodies or treat everyone to pizza and salad. Set out breakfast dishes the night before and let everyone know how to work the coffee maker and where to find sandwich fixings. Mix together a batch of muffins that you can pop in the oven in the morning and serve them with fruit and juice for a quick and easy breakfast. (Check ahead of time for any food allergies, too.) Don't pretend to be superwoman. Accept help in the kitchen with food prep and clean-up.
No matter how much you love being with family and friends, being crammed together in one house can make everyone a little stir crazy. Put together a list of activities guests can enjoy on their own to break up the day--just provide the maps and brochures. Get everyone outside with a game of flag football or go for a walk. This will give you a few moments of peace and a few minutes to clean up and get ready for the next round of activities.
If the weather doesn't cooperate, pull together a few movies, a collection of board games, books and magazines so everyone has an opportunity to find a quiet spot to read, play a game or relax in front of the TV.
Stop by someone else's home or invite neighbors to stop in during the day. Everyone will appreciate the break.
Once you're all seated at dinner, eat slowly and savor the moment. Don't rush to clean up--pour some more wine, share stories, sing carols....enjoy!

Always Remember

2011-12-16T09:33:00.001-05:00

A few years ago, just before Thanksgiving, I went through my many boxes of photos and started to pull a collection together at random. Some were from my childhood, some were from my husband's childhood, and some were of my own children at various ages and stages of their lives. I placed them all in a bowl with the idea that after Thanksgiving dinner, we would all sit around the table and reminisce about the people in the pictures.

It's amazing to me what we remember, and all of the things we sometimes forget. Each photograph conjured up all kinds of emotions. We shared stories about the images with our children filling in the details along the way. We told sweet and funny tales about the people who are no longer with us but will remain forever in our hearts. We laughed, we cried, and, in our own special way, we shared our holiday with the family members that couldn't gather round our table.

So, with the holiday season upon us once more, and a new year just around the corner, take some time to look back. It will be the best gift you can give to one another.

A Few Favorite Traditions

2011-12-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

Sending Christmas cards, hanging the stockings with care....we all have treasured traditions that we look forward to each year. Here are some more from a few readers that I'd like to share. They will warm your heart.

"We spend a night decorating the house, eating a special dinner and listening to Christmas music. As we fill out the cards, we talk about who we are sending them to and the memories we have with them. We also spend that night taking photographs to put in the cards."

Wendy Wrzos - www.WendyandtheBlueGiraffe.blogspot.com

"Each Christmas Eve, we host my husband's side of the family for dinner and church. After Grandpa reads, "Twas' the Night Before Christmas", we warm the car and head out for a "Rudolph Run". This is simply a drive around our little village to look at Christmas lights and look for Rudolph's shiny red nose in the sky. One year, not too long ago, we saw a plane with a flashing red light blinking through some clouds. Oh, my gosh....I thought my kids would die. They screamed, "Get us HOME, get us home NOW. We have to fall asleep before he passes us over". I could not help but smile and just about cried. The magic and spirit was alive that night and has been a highly anticipated event each year. That tradition warms my heart and is a cherished family memory!"

Kelly Chacchia - www.CentsiblyChicHome.com

"Every year my older sister writes a poem about the past year and includes something about each and every family member (all 34 of us!) in the poem. It might be about something funny that happened to that person, or the welcoming of a new baby, to a challenge we faced and overcame. I don't know how she does it and makes it all rhyme, but it is something we all gather together for and look forward to every year. For the few who are out of state and cannot join us, we have them on speaker phone. At the end of the poem she always thanks our mom and dad (who are no longer with us) for blessing us with such a wonderful family."

Heidi Caron-Guay - www.DragonflyInteriors.net

Who Says?

2011-12-14T09:35:00.001-05:00

Break from tradition. Ornaments don't have to hang from a tree branch to look beautiful. Hang them from the chandelier, on cabinet and door knobs, and place them in pitchers, glasses, candleholders, and on top off an antique sugar bowl or a candlestick. Tuck them in wherever you can.

The Gift of Giving

2011-12-13T09:31:00.003-05:00

Each year we are faced with the challenge of balancing our budget while simultaneously purchasing presents for those we love and giving to the many charities who are aggressively seeking donations for those in need. How much should we give? Who should we give it to?

The first thing you need to do is find a reputable charity. There are a few places to look for guidance: Guidestar.org, Charitynavigator.org, and the Better Business Bureau's Give.org will help you do your homework. (75% or more of the contributions should go directly to the cause, while the rest is used to cover administrative and fundraising costs.)

In order to take a little stress out of the gift-giving season, it's a good idea to set aside a certain amount to give either in one-lump sum during the holidays or that can be donated in installments throughout the year. And don't think you have to give a lot either. Just think about all of the $1 and $10 donations people contributed to the Red Cross for victims of Hurricane Katrina. ANY amount is welcomed. Set aside loose change, donate to your local food pantry, or donate clothing, furniture, and other goods to families in need. Check out Goodwill.org and TheSalvationArmyUSA.org for details. Also contact your local church to help out a family in need in your town.

And please don't forget the animals. The American Humane Society and your local shelters need help too. Contact your local shelter to receive their list of needed supplies.

Visit O Magazine for a list of gifts that keep on giving, too.

Be inspired by the story, The Christmas Jars by Jason Wright.

Homemade Goodies

2011-12-12T10:26:00.002-05:00

I have to admit, I use to make a lot of homemade gifts years ago, but now I just make edible treats--for dogs and humans. I plan baking and making days several days before Christmas so I can deliver them all to friends and neighbors just before the big day. I also keep a few packages on hand for unexpected guests, too.

Doggie Treats

2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (I've used white flour in a pinch)

1/2 cup powdered dry milk

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. onion powder

2 tsp. brown sugar

1 tsp. granulated beef bouillon

6 tbsp. meat drippings (From a roast or bacon, I've omitted this in a pinch, too and used beef broth instead)

1 egg, beaten

1/2 cup ice water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine the first 7 ingredients. Cut in drippings until mixture resembles cornmeal. Mix in egg. Then add just enough ice water to make the mixture form a ball. Pat dough to a 1/2" and cut into desired shapes. Place them on a lightly greased cookie sheet or parchment and bake 25-30 minutes. Cool before serving. Treats will last about 2 weeks. (Recipe from Susan Branch.)

Once they're cool, I place them in Ziploc bags and then package them in brown lunch bags that have been stamped with paw prints. I make homemade tags from additional brown paper and raffia.

For my children, and all of the other chocoholics on my list, I make batches and batches of milk chocolate fudge from this recipe I clipped years ago from a women's magazine. You can split it up and make a layer of dark fudge and a layer of milk chocolate, or simply choose your favorite. (I can never have enough chocolate chips in the house this time of year!) I place about a 1/3 of a pound in a clear cellophane bag and tie it up with ribbons, jingle bells and a glittery tag.

I also make more spiced nuts just like I did at Thanksgiving, only this time we give them away. I think the spiced nuts and the fudge are delicious together....but that could be just me. These also get packaged in cellophane bags.

The one thing I've never really made for Christmas is cookies(!). But I might just have to try these Chocolate Crinkle Cookies from Little Brown Pen. And if cookies are indeed your thing, then check out Cookies For Kids Cancer and host your own bake sale for a wonderful cause.

Image via Flickr.com

Last Minute Decorations

2011-12-09T08:19:00.001-05:00

This is a good weekend to gather all of those goodies you may have lying around the yard. Unfortunately, due to our crazy weather, I have lots of birch branches I can now use in my home--they look lovely stacked vertically in my brass wood bucket, but they can also be used as "tree" decorations on tablescapes, too. I clip lots of pine branches to place around the house. I tuck them behind mirrors, create mini bouquets, and place them in among other decorations like you see above. I force paperwhites (I use small white stones and cranberries, depending on the room they're in) right after Thanksgiving and then each week I add another small vase to keep the scent in my home for as long as possible. I love using hazelnuts to hold candles and I place dishes of smaller candles in kosher salt.

Bringing natures indoors, at all times of the year, has become a tradition that gets me outside even on blustery days.

Make It Personal

2011-12-08T10:28:00.004-05:00

If you're looking for a great gift idea, take out your old cookbook and bring it back to life. Then pass on family favorites to all of the cooks and aspiring cooks in your family. There's lots of ways to create your own cookbook. You could simply copy and paste recipes from online sources and bring the results to your local copy center to bind, photo copy your own recipe book, create recipe cards or a series of cards that you have laminated and boxed, or really go all out and have your masterpiece published through one of the many self-publishers that specialize in photo and family albums such as Blurb.com and Lulu.com. Include side notes: Served every New Year's Eve, burnt my first few batches, always a crowd pleaser, or doodle and draw. Make it personal.

Moleskine has come up with a series of journals to record recipes (and other passions) that allow you to write in the margins and have fun personalizing to your heart's content.

Make it a tradition to pass down family recipes so they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Image via fitandcool.com

A Child's Christmas

2011-12-07T10:05:00.002-05:00

My first apartment was not very cheery at Christmastime. I couldn't afford much, and unbeknownst to me, Christmas decorations were expensive....there simply wasn't any room in my budget for anything but the necessities. My sad Charlie Brown tree got decked out in a few plastic ornaments that made me feel very far from home. Not wanting my children to go through the same thing when they moved into their first apartment, I decided to buy them each an ornament every Christmas so they would be able to take a little piece of home with them. If this is a tradition you would like to start for the child in your life, Hallmark makes an assortment of keepsake ornaments for every age and interest.

In addition to ornaments, treat them to a small tree that they can decorate on their own. Encourage them to embellish the tree with tiny treasures, notes, necklaces, ribbons--anything that makes them happy. When it's time, they can pack up the tree to use in their own home and then pass on the tradition to their children.

Image scanned from Better Homes & Gardens magazine

Entertaining Ideas

2011-12-06T10:18:00.000-05:00

Company's coming in fits and starts this year. I typically use the same things--dishes, silver, decorations--but then add something new to liven things up. My paisley tablecloth will still work well for the kitchen table and a never-been-used coordinating Bill Blass fabric remnant will be pressed into service for the dining table. I have new Christmas mugs we'll drink coffee from on Sunday mornings, but my English tea set will come off the pantry shelf again and again as I sit down to enjoy a cup of Lady Grey with my girls and friends. Let's see how you can mix it up, too.

I'm a big fan of sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner, but I've relaxed my thoughts about serving a buffet for Christmas. I think the whole look is a little easier to pull off, so why not try something new this year. Remember that when you do set up the table or sideboard, layer items from large to small (back to front) and vary height and scale. That just means moving things around until you find the look you want. (I think drinks are best located away from the food. It keeps guests moving.) Even if you have a sea of white, like in this photo example, break it up with greenery, glassware, and a few natural items to warm up frosty white.

Have fun with table centerpieces. If you like to use one big item, like a bouquet of flowers or greens in the center, fan out more greens (or berries and nuts, or a collection of ornaments), onto the table for a more festive arrangement. And don't be afraid to use everyday objects or those items you think should only be used at other times of the year like these rabbits. They can be used for Easter, spring, and everything in between. Just keep color in mind (white works all year long) and ask yourself how you can re-use what you already have. Snow bunnies hopping in a winter forest works for me!

Even the simplest acts this season can be enjoyed more if you pay attention to the details. Serve ginger ale or cider in pretty glasses or place a bowl or silver cup filled with candy cane stirrers (or rock candy). It adds a sweet touch to a coffee break. As you collect greens for your home, set aside a few branches or clippings to toss onto a tray before serving family and friends.

And don't think you can't use the obvious....flowers and candy are always welcomed at the holiday today. Just be sure to get a little more creative. My grandmother use to set out a dish of ribbon candy every Christmas. Now it's become part of my own holiday tradition. No one eats much, but it looks so beautiful sitting in a pretty dish, it becomes its own decoration. Flowers can be cut into short bouquets and displayed in a teacup, sherry glass, or silver gravy boat. Place it on another silver tray, or a mirror, and toss in a few glass ornaments for added sparkle.

And don't forget to send your guests home with a little goody carefully wrapped in miniature boxes or in cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

Images via delish.com

Vintage: Bringing Back the Caroling Party

2011-12-05T11:22:00.001-05:00

All through high school I caroled with the choir up and down town streets and inside nursing homes. It was all part of our annual holiday tour and I loved every minute of it. When I was older, I continued to sing with choirs, but we only managed to go caroling once. I wanted to do it again, so the caroling party was born. It's a holiday tradition that doesn't require any special equipment (just your voice and some lyrics) and you certainly don't need to belong to a choir to participate.

First things first, make a guest list and set up some ground rules--then send out the invites. Do you want to carol indoors or out? You might want to have a back-up plan, too, just in case the weather doesn't cooperate. With a little pre-planning, you can arrange to visit your local assisted living facility or senior center.

Ask everyone to don Santa hats, or if you're really adventurous, dress in Victorian costume. Make sure you have songbooks on hand. Simply find the lyrics to your favorite songs online and print them yourself so everyone has a copy. Carry lanterns, jingle bells, and have some extra mittens and scarves on hand, just in case. Practice a few lines of every song and head on out!

Once you're done, you can have everyone come back to your home for coffee and dessert or ask everyone to bring a covered dish and add a potluck dinner to the festivities.

This is especially nice if you can score a horse-drawn carriage or wagon!

Image via bhg.com

Holiday Mail for Heros

2011-12-02T09:23:00.001-05:00

Sending a card is a nice way to send our thanks every year to the men and women who serve in the military and you can do that very easily through the Holiday Mail for Heros program sponsored by the Red Cross and Pitney Bowes. And in case you haven't heard, Walter Reed is no longer accepting mail addressed to wounded soldiers. They will only accept mail to a specific person with a specific address. The card I sent last year was returned to me, and when I did a little research on the subject, I found this explanation. You can also find a variety of kiosks at your local mall where you can both make a donation and sign a card that will be sent in time for the holidays.

My nephew, who was wounded in Afghanistan one month ago, has just left Walter Reed for additional rehabilitation at a VA hospital in Virginia, but he will return there again before finally (hopefully) making it home shortly after Christmas. Saying a prayer for our troops has never been more important to me. Bringing them all home in one piece would be even better.

The photo above is from one of my favorite holiday movies, The Christmas Card.

Image via genuinebeau.com

I'm a Traditionalist

2011-12-01T10:59:00.005-05:00

I’m a big believer in tradition. From trimming the tree to summer vacation and back again, my family and I have marked the passage of time with cherished memories of times gone by. I have photos of the first day of school, pictures of my children sitting on the porch of the orchard’s general store where we go apple picking, and on the many beaches we travel to from Maine to Cape Cod and everywhere in between. Events, holidays, celebrating the seasons—it’s all become a big part of our family history.

I have embraced some traditions with a full heart, and I have quietly said good-bye to others. I’ve even tried some on for size that didn’t quite fit, so they didn’t last very long. For several years, my best girlfriend and I would attend the Nutcracker after work, complete with a champagne toast. But once I moved out of the city, and eventually out of Massachusetts, it stopped. There just wasn’t enough time to do it all. However, we did keep one tradition alive—our annual Christmas tea. Each year, we both head into Boston for a day of eating, shopping, and eating some more. After 22 years, I think this one’s a keeper.

When I was a child, I looked forward to attending Mass on Christmas Eve at the quaint little chapel just outside of town. I can still smell the English oak, the pine boughs, and candle wax. You could hear a pin drop at that service as a peaceful hush landed gracefully on our shoulders while we sat and prayed.

When we returned home, we were allowed to open one present. Every year, my sister and I received a new nightgown to wear just for the occasion. It was my mother’s way of making sure we went to sleep in style and so sugarplums would happily dance in our heads.

And just like my mother, I served turkey with all the trimmings for Christmas dinner for years. I couldn’t conceive of serving anything else. If it was good enough for Nat King Cole, it was certainly good enough for us. Until one year I didn’t. Now I serve up an entirely different menu that my family thoroughly enjoys.

I can feel more changes coming my way, too. This was the first year we didn’t take the girls trick-or-treating, the first year we won’t hang the Christmas countdown to Santa, and one of the last years we’ll have most of our family home—together. New traditions are starting to work their way in as I struggle to let go of the past. I’m not a big fan of change, so it’s been especially hard for me to let go of childhood traditions that I have protected and held onto for as long as I could.

But there may be a silver lining on the horizon. My hubby and I shared a knowing glance when we went out to find this year’s Christmas tree and he picked one and I picked the other as soon as we turned the corner—done, just like that. It won’t take us long to find our tree when it’s just us. We’ve lived through enough Christmases to know that you can’t sweat the small stuff….or stress over finding the “perfect” tree. We spent the rest of the time playing hide-and-seek while our girls diligently took up the hunt. And after spending last week cooking, cleaning, and decorating, I spent this past Sunday in my pajamas recuperating from it all. I know I’ve done this to myself—my standards have always been high, but it’s a lot to do in a relatively short amount of time, and I can now see how, perhaps, a little downsizing is in our Christmas future as well.

When I look back on my childhood at all of the celebrations—both large and small—I’m so happy that I have taught my children the importance of tradition that I learned all those years ago. My daughters (and my son) will hopefully nurture some of them, and like me, they will take the traditions they hold dear and pass them on to their own children—and create new ones just for them.

What Are You Reading?

2011-11-30T08:21:00.000-05:00

I’m always tentative to talk about what I‘m reading. I think our taste in books, like art perhaps, is subjective. What one person may like, another may not. Not because the book isn’t good or bad or worth reading at all, it’s simply because it doesn’t fit that person at that moment, and that’s okay. Best seller lists tell us what’s hot, but I’m not always a big fan of reading what the masses are reading either. Or maybe I’ll add a book to my list, but I won’t read it for a long time….until I’m ready, and when I want to read about that particular subject or get immersed in its story. I didn’t read The Help until it was in paperback, and even then I waited a while. It’s now one of my favorite books.

I also like to read stories that relate to what’s happening in my life at the time. When I’m on vacation, I read stories that take place in the summer, preferably on a beach. When I need to escape, I like to read stories about faraway places I’ve never visited. And when I’m trying to improve my writing, or learn something new, I want to read books that will help sharpen my skills.

Right now, for instance, I’m reading The Christmas Note. It’s a story about two women who find one another and become friends when they both really need one. Its message is reminding me of the importance of friendship and reaching out to those in need during a time of year when needs are so great. (I read The Christmas Secret this time last year.)

Every Last One, by Anna Quindlen, is a heart-breaking novel but beautifully written. You will cry and cry some more.

I finally read The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan last month. After I saw the movie FIVE and then made my mammogram appointment, it just kind of fit. I need to know what I need to know and burying my head in the sand is not going to cut it.

And then there are times when I just want to read good writing, although food did play a part in these two particular titles. I like the Best Writing series, so I dug into The Best Food Writing of 2011, and chased it down with Will Write for Food. Both of them were delicious.

Bringing home a pile of books from the bookstore or the library puts a big smile on my face. I’ve just purchased Regis Philbin’s new book, How I Got This Way, and I’m looking forward to reading about his life and about the people who have helped him become who he is today. Sticking with the whole “Live” theme for a moment, his daughter, Joanna Philbin has written a trilogy that my oldest daughter raved about. And if you are a 40 or 50 something woman who is experiencing a different kind of change, I can’t recommend Kathie Lee Gifford’s book, Just When I Thought I'd Dropped My Last Egg, more. Some of her essays are laugh out loud funny.

My BFF is not a fan of any book that makes her cry. For her, reading is a complete escape from reality and must include a least one bodice ripping scene. This use to bother me to no end. I never understood how she couldn’t, wouldn’t read the books I was reading. I gave her a copy of Eat, Pray, Love and she gave it back. She loves the Twilight series and I think they need to remain on my daughter’s bookshelf, not mine. We don’t like the same taste in music or movies either—go figure.

The other day, I tried to remember just how many books I’ve read this past year. Some days I wish I’d kept a journal. Especially on the days I would get another book from the library and realized I’d already read it—years ago! Oops. Then again, I’m one of those people who re-reads books. Some of my family and friends think this is a complete waste of time. But I can’t wrap my brain around that either. Why wouldn’t you want to read a book you thoroughly enjoyed again and again? And so it goes…

Other titles on my nightstand: Three Weeks with My Brother, Writing Life Stories, a few more Christmas stories, and my wish list of other books that will take me well into the new year.

Get Ready For Winter

2011-11-29T09:47:00.000-05:00

I've been teased with 24" of snow (2 days before Halloween) and a few slick roads, but considering winters past, this November has been extremely mild. I'm not fooled though--winter is surely on its way.

I can remember the first winter we moved up here. Our 400' driveway wasn't put in correctly and we had record snows that lasted well into April and no way of digging out unless we did it ourselves. Visions of ice dams, Three 3' storms (in less than 30 days), and pulling cars out of our ditch still dance in my head. Since then, we have come to embrace the New Hampshire winters like a local. In fact, we've become quite skilled at working around the elements. I can drive a car on ice, up a hill and rock my way out of ruts without careening into the many trees lining our drive. My passengers may hold their breath a little longer than they'd like, but I get the job done.

That was until the winter of 2008 when our area was crippled by an ice storm. I can still hear the crash of branches every time the wind blows. When we awoke to no power, it wasn't a surprise. But when my neighbor predicted we'd be without power for 2 weeks, I thought he was being overly dramatic. (You know you're in trouble when the local hospital is without power for three days.) On our day 3, he was kind enough to hook up our small generator so we could at least alternate some of our home's power to heat the house to a chilly 60 degrees and give our candles a break now and again. 10 days later, and 2 days before Christmas, we finally had power. And we were one of the lucky ones.

Since then, I don't take power outages lying down. Our pantry is stocked with enough batteries, flashlights, and lanterns that we could line said driveway up and down and back again. The emergency kit you see above is not too different than the one I have packed away in the basement. (Click here to read what's in it.) Our neighbors now joke about what kinds of "perishables" they have stored away....the darling man who helped with our generator could dine on canned tuna and corn until next winter if need be!

In addition to the usual emergency supplies, I've found that a little pre-planning in the entertainment department couldn't hurt either. Just ask my girls who haven't played a game of dominos since that momentous storm. It's a good idea, especially if you have very small children, to pack a backpack or basket with a few goodies just for the occasion. Coloring books, paper, pens and pencils, crayons and markers, books to read, books to look at, magazines, an assortment of games, crosswords, puzzles, school projects or school workbooks, are just some of the things you might like to have on hand so that when you're huddled next to the fire so you're not tempted to reach out and smack someone. Patience is a virtue and never so needed when you're cooped up in the house for days on end!

Image scanned from Womans Day magazine

Tag, You're It!

2011-11-28T11:03:00.002-05:00

The trims are trimmed and the house is back in full holiday swing. It's hard to believe. After going through several boxes of ornaments and other Christmas goodies, I took stock of my holiday wrappings and trim. My basket of ribbons and gift tags was looking a little sparse so I decided to check out some gift tag ideas online. Here are some of my favorites...

Felt and paper (and a little ribbon) is all you need with these ideas from Cafe Mom, Amy Butler, and Martha Stewart.

Store extra bottles of wine underneath this cute tree cozy, also from Cafe Mom. Wrap up a bottle of wine in pretty trims instead of a bag this season. I'm a big fan of jingle bells.

Check out these festive tags from Brooklyn Limestone. (North Pole and Teal Tags) Mrs. Limestone is the mistress of down-loadable treats.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T09:49:00.001-05:00

Just two more days before we stuff ourselves with turkey, stuffing, and pie. My son is coming home for Thanksgiving and I've been cooking and cleaning in preparation. I love the holidays so much that I sometimes get too caught up in the festivities. If I could, I would live in a magical holiday world, with my family by my side, and spend my days laughing them away. But since I can't really do that, I'll be just as happy to take a little time off to enjoy what I can.

I'll be back on Monday after I've recovered from my turkey coma and unwrapped myself from the Christmas lights. You can follow along if you'd like and make your family a pot of turkey soup from all of those leftovers, trim your tree (ideas here and here), and get yourself organized for the best holiday season ever.

Faux Bois For Fido

2011-11-21T11:45:00.000-05:00

This too cute faux bois bowl is the perfect gift for your canine love. It's only $26 and you can find it here. I also love to give gourmet treats as gifts. And if you're thinking you might want to make a batch of homemade doggie treats this holiday season, grab your dogbone cookie cutter and/or paw print stamp and I'll share some recipes soon.

A Little Reminder

2011-11-18T11:03:00.004-05:00

I’m not much of a collector. I don’t scrapbook, and my family photos….well, let’s just say they’re tucked away in a box for safe-keeping. I prefer to keep my memories alive by taking a picture (stored on the computer of course) and writing down the days and weeks events in my many notebooks. But just the other day, as I was getting ready to put away a few of my purses and bags in the basement, I reached into one of the pockets and found a few reminders of my life. You see, I like to store ticket stubs, notes, cards, and other little mementos in the pages of a book, in my wallet, my journals, and in the pockets of purses and bags I know I’ll reuse. I get to relive those moments when my hand touches the date or brushes up against words that have been scrawled across the page. They bring a smile to my face. Whenever I’m feeling blue, I know I can reach into my purse, or take a book off the shelf and pull out a few pieces of paper that will instantly cheer me up or have me thinking about a place where hands were held and laughter was shared.

And when I gift a book to someone else, I like to write a little note inside to mark the occasion, so they, too, can find a little surprise that will put a smile on their face.

Image via allthishappiness.blogspot.com

Vintage: Bringing Back the Relish Tray

2011-11-17T08:57:00.001-05:00

Some holiday dishes defy time—the green bean casserole and Jell-O molds are two that come to mind. But when I was thinking about Thanksgiving meals past, I had forgotten all about the relish tray. Every holiday required the hostess to bring out her divided glass dish and fill it with the savory treats she had “put up” the previous harvest. Pickled and preserved vegetables were simply set out to sate the guest's appetite while waiting for the big meal. It was the proper thing to do after all.

I, too, have a relish tray. It’s a pretty crystal glass dish that was given to me as a wedding gift. Something I don’t think too many modern brides would bother registering for today. In fact, my quick research showed EBay as the only place you could actually find a relish tray today, that and your grandmother’s pantry perhaps.

So what do you do with it? Simply set out any divided dish, or make one yourself using hollowed out cabbages and peppers, then fill it with pickles (sweet gherkins, butter, dill), olives (black, pimento-stuffed green), cheeses, carrots, cucumbers, deviled eggs, even nuts—a sort of modern crudité, if you will. The contents are as varied as our family traditions themselves.

I plan to dust off my dish this Thanksgiving and Christmas. Maybe I’ll even spice things up a bit and add some stuffed olives into to the mix.

Color Stories

2011-11-16T07:46:00.001-05:00

You wouldn't buy an outfit before trying it on, would you? So why paint your rooms much the same way. Benjamin Moore has introduced Color Stories, a collection of Aura paints in a budget-friendly 16 oz. can that you can purchase to "try out" the color before you commit. As a design professional, I always had clients try before they buy every time I walked them through a color consultation. Here are some of my warm, fall-inspired favorites from their collection of 240 colors.

Color Inspiration

Hope Chest 1050, Parisian Red 1170, Brownstone 240

Bewitched 450, Chocolate Velvet 235

Top image benjaminmoore.com

Unique Gift Ideas

2011-11-15T09:48:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite (and inexpensive) ways to decorate a child's room is to buy two copies of the same book, then frame the pages of one while the child gets to read the other as the story unfolds around the room. The people at Crow Biz have a better idea. They've stamped and embellished vintage pages and maps into one-of-a-kind pieces of art (only $13) for the adventurous child in your life--you!

For the tea lover....this kati tea brewing system allows you to brew and keep warm loose tea for only $15. For the gardener in your life, these pretty garden markers made from silverplate spoons start at just $6 for one, or buy this set for only $23.

For the book lover, a Jane Austen library candle ($22.95) will make reading into the night a pleasure. A 5-year journal is a quick and easy way to record your life in a few words every day--the perfect gift for the person who just wants to write down the facts for only $12.95. And this collection of Table Topics will certainly get the party started. Gift this set of 8 cubes for only $25 and get invited to the New Year's Eve party!

It's That Time of Year Again...

2011-11-14T12:20:00.006-05:00

The holidays are just around the corner. It's time to make those to-do lists, stock the pantry, and make the house oh, so merry and bright. There's so much to do, and so little time to do it in....but I have a few quick and easy ideas to help you out.

Bring nature indoors. A quick trip to the grocery store and a few snips of greenery from your backyard with take you from Thanksgiving to Christmas and well into winter. Mix fruit, nuts, berries and greens until you get the look you want. If you want to jazz up the natural look, simply roll pomegranates in glitter, or spray pine cones with a dusting of gold or silver paint for sparkle. And don't forget one of my favorite things to decorate with (and eat) - cranberries.

Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, or everything in between, keep the menu simple. Go ahead and reach for those tried and true recipes, but don't be afraid to add something new, like a simple chopped salad of baby arugula, sliced apples, walnuts, and cranberries. This roasted balsamic-glazed butternut squash. Or this recipe for sauteed spinach with bacon.

Deck your halls with the things you already have. Play up an existing color scheme or just think "winter" and you're sure to enjoy your home all season long. Hang holiday cards from branches that you "plant" in a decorative container. Frame last years cards and line your mantel or hang them in groups on the wall. Purchase inexpensive gold and silver (or multi-colored) glass balls (even shiny plastic for the kids) and perch them on candlesticks, display them in bowls or in glass hurricanes, on platters, or tucked in plants. A simple winter motif or plain shiny surface is all you need to stretch decorations from one holiday to the next. Set out candles on trays of kosher salt to simulate snow. Adorn the platter with pine cones and more ornaments.

Images via bhg.com, houseandhome.com, foodnetwork.com, marthastewart.com, potterybarn.com

Pumpkin Bread

2011-11-11T06:52:00.000-05:00

When I was in my Jr. High home economics class, I learned how to make pumpkin bread. I brought the recipe home and made some for my family, and my Dad was hooked. From then on in, I had to make pumpkin bread at least every Thanksgiving (and Christmas and Easter). When my parents moved to Florida some years back and we no longer spent holidays together, I've surprised my Dad with a loaf or two in the summer, just because.

That particular recipe has since disappeared, but I found a good substitute that I have adapted as my own. Here it is.

2/3 cup shortening

2 and 2/3 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 16-oz. can of pumpkin
2/3 cup water
3 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 and a 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon

Cinnamon for dusting

Grease two loaf pans. (I use Pam) and heat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix shortening and sugar in a large bowl. Add eggs, pumpkin, and water. Blend in flour and other dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly, but don't overmix. Pour batter into the two loaf pans and dust with cinnamon.

Bake at 350 for about one hour.

Image via simplyrecipes.com

Where Am I?

2011-11-10T14:10:00.000-05:00

I am teaching a class in the studio this week. (This is a glimpse of the studio.) And when I do, I am completely immersed in what I'm doing and all of the other things that I do are put on the back burner. I don't usually talk about the teacher part of me on this blog. This is my "day job", the one that pays the bills. But, since I am a bit distracted, I thought I would share a little.

In the "studio", students get to play with all of my goodies. In fact, that's what happened yesterday. So imagine this room completely disheveled and each piece of furniture - table, bookcase, shelf - rearranged again and again and again. As they "play", they learn what goes with what, how to combine colors, shapes, textures, and other design elements together with ease. It's a fun, exhausting (for all of us), informative week filled with promise and inspiration. I'm almost as excited as they are when they finally pack up their bags and head out into the world ready to take on their first challenge.

After class is done, I'm off to Massachusetts to help with our family road race on Saturday. So if you happen to come by and I look a little rough around the edges you'll know why. But don't be afraid to speak right up and ask for more chowda!

Charmed, I'm Sure

2011-11-09T07:23:00.001-05:00

Add a little bling to holiday packages, a handwritten note, a dining table place card, your Christmas stocking, and just about anything else you can think of, with pretty little charms like these from Michael's or other craft supply stores.

Image via traditionalhome.com

Over a Barrel

2011-11-08T07:33:00.000-05:00

Or in this case, under. These unique fixtures can be found at Tyler Florence's San Francisco restaurant, Wayfare Tavern.

Image via sfgate.com

Edaville Rail Run

2011-11-07T07:21:00.001-05:00

Ready, set... Come on down and enjoy a brisk walk or run around bog roads. This is year #11 and we're expecting 700+ runners this Saturday to come out in support of the Dorine Merritt Memorial Fund. I married into the family almost 20 years ago so I don't get any special treatment. I'll be the one hauling boxes, replenishing supplies, and slogging pots of chowda at the food table. (Come say hello!) My girls will be there with me, along with brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandparents - it's a true family affair. Check out the details here on the website and please friend us on Facebook. Your support means the world to our family.

Edaville Rail Run

Edaville USA

5 Pine Street

South Carver, MA

Saturday, November 12th

10:00 A.M.

Thanksgiving Table Settings

2011-11-04T09:57:00.000-04:00

From sophisticated to whimsical and everything in between, your Thanksgiving table can be as beautiful and festive as the examples I've gathered here.

1. This gorgeous bouquet groups together ladyslipper orchids, ranunculus, dahlias, and red calla lilies. Learn how to make these adorable turkey pops here. Display them in bowls filled with walnuts.

2. Pears and pumpkins tied with ribbons and mixed in among bowls of nuts, pine cones, and pomegranates makes a simple, yet lovely decoration. Steal this idea too.

3. Raid the supermarket and your backyard for just about anything. Dried grasses, leaves, berry branches, fruits, nuts....nature's bounty always works.

4. Use more natural elements to create place cards and break out the Christmas decorations or costume jewelry to embellish napkins. (Use pretty dish towels instead.) You can even hot glue acorns onto twine to create an inexpensive napkin ring.

Images via bhg.com, traditionalhome.com, countryliving.com, potterybarn.com

Show It Off

2011-11-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

Collections, treasures, keepsakes, a few pretty little things... they all add up to a fabulous room. It's fun to reinvent a space time and time again with a quick swap out. If you don't believe me, then spend this weekend clearing your table surfaces and shelves, and try pairing new things together. Forget about what you use to do, or what you think is "right", just have fun mixing and matching until you get the look you want. Shop your home instead of the stores and move things from room to room. The best part is, you can rotate collections over and over, and season by season, so your rooms never look the same.

Images scanned from the Nate Berkus Show, House and Home magazine and via houseandhome.com

Ready, Set, Go!

2011-11-02T10:20:00.002-04:00

It was a dark and stormy night... So goes the beginning of the next great American novel. If writing is your passion, you're not too late to jump on in while the water is still warm. It's National Novel Writing Month. If you're game, you can pen your 50,000 word novel in 30 (29) days. And the ONLY thing that matters in NaNoWriMo is output. It’s all about quantity, not quality. This approach forces you to lower your expectations, take risks, and write on the fly.* No edits, no second-guessing. This process is all about putting pen to paper, fingers to keyboard and just getting it on the page. Many libraries and bookstores are participating in their "write-in" sessions, so go get your laptop and your bookbag and head on over!

P.S. I just found out that "It Was a Dark and Stormy Night" is a boardgame. Check it out.

*source: http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/about/whatisnano

Image via Pheonix New Times

Thinking Out Loud

2011-11-01T09:16:00.003-04:00

I started writing out my “thoughts” posts almost a year ago. Time sure does fly by when you’re having fun. And I’m definitely having fun.

When I first began blogging, it started out as a place to post the design tips that I had written about through my newsletter all those years ago. I started reading style and design blogs (because you’re supposed to), leaving comments (because you’re supposed to), and trying to figure out where I fit in in this crazy hello-you-don’t-know-me-but-I-thought-I’d-share world of blogging. After reading some of the more popular design blogs, I realized I was old enough to be some of these people’s mother. That was an eye opener. I felt old and old-fashioned, and pretty much out of date. What was I doing? I’m not hip or with-it. I now belong to that demographic that few people pay attention to anymore. I think it’s somewhere between old and death. But after a while, I relaxed my attitude and my expectations about writing this blog. After all, wasn’t this my little corner of the web to stretch out and relax as I clearly point out? So I stopped reading those design blogs, even though I was supposed to. I stopped leaving comments just to drive traffic to my blog, even though I was supposed to do that, too. That’s when I started to let my hair down and just write.

My blog has gone through some expected growing pains, and it’s still not exactly laid out as I’d like, but because I don’t advertise (read: get paid to write) on this blog, every word I type is strictly my opinion. Just my words, thoughts and feelings. I figure that’s okay. This is my therapy, my online journal, my private place (broadcast to the world) where I can just share and connect. Blogging has allowed me to revisit a part of myself that I left dormant for a long time. It reminded me of what I truly love to do and that even if I don’t get paid doing it, it’s still a big part of me.

When I think about where I’ll be in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years—God willing, old and retired, I can’t imagine that I won’t still be blogging about my thoughts, my ideas, and sharing bits of my life with family, friends, and all of the dear readers I have met over the last couple of years. I am truly in love. I look forward to finding or taking pictures that will add an image to my words. I love coming up with ideas, planning, and editing. And even on those days when I think, what more could I possibly say to these people, all I have to do is wait a minute and something comes to mind.

If November is the official month of thanks, then I am genuinely thankful. I’m thankful that I have a voice and that I’m not afraid to think out loud. I’m thankful that I have a wonderful family and dear friends who support me in my projects—no matter how small. And I’m thankful that I get to do something that I love, every day. It's something that has given me the opportunity to explore who I am and to leave behind a few words that may inspire someone else to do the same thing.

At the beginning of every month, I write these posts based on what I’m thinking about at the time. All weekend long, as the snow continued to fall, I started to jot down the words that I expected to use. That was until I sat down at my computer yesterday afternoon and these words started to pour out of me. This is what I love about writing. (It a mysterious and compelling medium.) Sometimes my blog posts are planned well in advance, and sometimes they’re not. Just like life.

It Never Felt So Good

2011-10-31T11:35:00.002-04:00

24" of snow fell over the weekend. This is very early, even by New Hampshire standards. Now I'm not so sad about not taking the girls trick-or-treating tonight - I'm grateful! And since I feel like I'm stuck between holidays, I thought this post about felt crafts would be appropriate in case you're feeling stuck too.

Here are some last-minute costume ideas (if want to stay warm as you traipse around in the snow), that only require adding a few pieces of felt to some items you may already have around the house. These monster mittens are adorable.

To make this clown costume, I just cut shapes and ribbons of colorful felt and attached them to a sweat suit. The hat is made up of several triangles, a circle (for the bottom), and more ribbons (strips), all sewn together and stuffed with paper towels and attached to a piece of elastic. My pumpkin hat is made from 3 green felt leaves and one piece of green felt rolled up to create a stalk, and then all sewn together and pinned. (The pumpkin costume was made for her big brother many years earlier and recycled for the evening.) I think this photo is from 1999!

Get a jump-start on your holiday gifts by making these felt coasters, or buying some here. In fact, over at Martha Stewart, they have an array of felt crafts that you can make as gifts, or for yourself.

Images via marthastewart.com

The Call of the Wild

2011-10-28T10:24:00.003-04:00

Halloween is on Monday, but it looks a lot like Christmas around here and more snow is on its way for the weekend. I'm planning on making a big pot of chili, some popcorn, and a (scary) chocolate cake, but what I really want to do is start singing carols. And this guy here - he refuses to come in the house. This is his first New Hampshire snowfall and he is truly in his element. After getting into a fight with a porcupine on Monday (and loosing) he deserves to bound through the snow to his heart's delight.

These Are Just Two of My Favorite Things

2011-10-27T13:10:00.000-04:00

Reading and eating... or reading about food... or reading about food, a far off place, and escaping into a world of sumptuous feasts, all work for me. No matter how you slice it, I love to combine two of my favorite things - my love of food and a good book. Although there are myriad cookbooks that have been revered over the years (James Beard - Beard on Food, Julia Child - The Way to Cook, Thomas Keller - French Laundry Cookbook), there are some cookbooks that read like a book, (and good books that include recipes), making them the ultimate late night fare.

In her book, Libation - A Bitter Alchemy, author Deirdre Heekin has written a series of essays that explore how she connects food with wines and spirits as she travels throughout Italy. In the book, In Late Winter We Ate Pears, she and her chef husband, Caleb Barber, share not only recipes, but their love affair with a culture that knows lingering at the table is one of life's greatest pleasures. (Deirdre Heekin and Caleb Barber are the proprietors of the Woodstock, VT restaurant Osteria Pane e Salute.)

And if you savor the idea of combining your fondness of travel, food, and lyrical prose, you must read Frances Mayes books all about Tuscany. Her newest (The Tuscan Sun Cookbook) is due out in May, 2012.

In her beautiful and delicious books, Falling Cloudberries and Apples for Jam, author Tessa Kiros combines her love of food with delectable photographs, heartwarming family memories, anecdotes, and whimsical drawings.

Add these books to your holiday gift list.

Top image via housebeautiful.com

Ravishing Red

2011-10-26T10:48:00.001-04:00

Just a little or a lot? That depends on how much you want to turn up the heat. Red is a wonderful color to decorate with and you need just a touch to create a lot drama. This beautiful red velvet sofa commands attention so there's no need to add more red to the room. Let one big, colorful piece stand on its own.

Different shades of red make a difference. Does it have a yellow undertone (like this wall color) or a blue undertone? Did you know that men prefer yellow-based reds while women prefer blue? That's why you don't always agree on a particular shade even if you both like the color red.

Oriental rugs traditionally combine shades of red, blue, and yellow together. (An area rug is the perfect starting point when selecting colors.) As long as you stick with the same undertones (blue or yellow), you'll be able to mix in other shades into the room. Tone down the saturation by choosing reds with a brown or black undertone and you can use a lot of red in the room without overpowering the space with too much color.

Use a bold red on an accent wall, in an entry, or as an accent color in a bookcase.

Decorate the outdoors with cherry red chairs and watch your porch come to life.

Red is enthusiastic, energizing, appetizing, protective, shocking, alarming, beautiful and bold.

It's my favorite color.

Color Inspiration

Benjamin Moore

Million Dollar Red 20036-10, Ravishing Red 2008-10

Moroccan Red 1309, Merlot Red 2006-10

Images via chico's catalog, sunset.com, modernhousez.net

Chic at Every Age

2011-10-25T09:40:00.000-04:00

As I've become (Ahem) older, I've learned what works and what doesn't. And adding color near your face (at any age) works. My go to color when I'm feeling blue is definitely orange. You can find a similar one here, here, and here.

Add pizazz to your wardrobe with a little animal print. Normally, I like just a hint - a shoe, a bag - but this dress from Ann Taylor is sophisticated and fun without being over the top.

Black leather riding boots from me Too are a must for the classically dressed woman. And the price tag is just right.

Images via mixmatchfashion.com and goodhousekeeping.com

Country Living

2011-10-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

When we moved up to the New Hampshire woods, it took me a while to adapt. Now that I've lived here nearly 18 years (!), I've come to love everything about living in my quiet little hamlet, including connecting with nature. But lately, things have become a little too wild for my taste.

Last year, we were inundated with an abundance of animals. It seemed every week I was looking into the backyard and finding not just one turkey, but 20, not just a few blackbirds, but 100. Years ago, our dog Smokey chased a Fisher Cat up a tree (he was very lucky if you know anything about Fisher Cats), we’ve been told about area moose sightings, and we hear coyotes off in the distance. The animal list goes on and on. I know they’re out there, but I want them to stay in the woods and out of my yard. Birds, chipmunks, rabbits, even the occasional deer are fine with me, but when we met Mr. Bear last spring, I started to get a little uneasy. After all, I have two fury sons to worry about and they like to "play" with just about anything that appears in our yard. We've even gone to the extent of installing an electric fence so the dogs can only play in the grassed in area of our property. They can't go beyond the tree line unless they want a little reminder that the woods are forbidden territory.

But, last week, Mr. Bear made another appearance and this time it was personal. The feeder was back up a bit earlier than it should have been (I know, I know. My warm-weather bird watching days are definitely over.), and this time he took the feeder - and the post that holds up the pergola with it. And just this morning, Dante snuck up on a porcupine and got a mouthful of quills. Poor baby. Hubby and I rushed him to the animal hospital to have the quills removed and he is sleeping soundly beside me. We will now leash and walk the dogs in the yard when the sun goes down and before it comes up just to be on the safe side.

Country living may be for the birds after all. It will certainly have me running to and from my car carrying a big flashlight and singing at the top of my lungs for a while. Hubby didn’t care of my 10’ fence idea. I’m still thinking he may crack.

Pumpkin Festival

2011-10-21T09:42:00.000-04:00

Since 1991, families have been carving and lighting pumpkins at the Keene Pumpkin Festival. The goal: to amass as many lit pumpkins (in one place) and beat the festival record of 29,762. This number exceeded their 8th Guinness World Record of 28,952 back in 2003, but it wasn't quite enough to grab another award. But that doesn't stop the nearly 70,000 attendees from trying!

If you happen to be in the neighborhood (or within an hours drive), bring a carved pumpkin, don your most funny or frightening costume, and enjoy this family friendly event.

Image via Keene Pumpkin Festival / Al Braden - Photographer

Don't Put the Grill Away

2011-10-20T10:03:00.000-04:00

Make this easy steak salad instead. I'm always looking for new ways to stretch old recipes, so when I had to come up with a fairly quick lunch for company last weekend, I defrosted some steak tips, threw together some vegetables, and fired up the grill one last time.

Steak Salad

2-3 lbs. steak tips

1/2 cup A1 Bold and Spicy steak sauce

1/2 cup Newman's Own Olive Oil & Vinegar dressing

Spring mix greens

1-2 large sweet onions

1-2 large tomatoes or 1/2 lb. cherry tomatoes

Olive oil

Kosher salt

Favorite vinaigrette

Mix together steak sauce and salad dressing, coat steak tips, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. I like to marinate the steak tips for a least a few hours if possible. Cut onions into large chunks and coat with a little olive oil and salt. Do the same for the tomatoes.

Add steak tips and vegetables to grilling baskets or use scewers. Grill over hot coals 3-5 minutes per side. In the meantime, assemble greens onto a plate. Once the meat is done, top greens with the meat and vegetables and your favorite vinaigrette.

I did not add the tomatoes to the grill this time. I simply sauteed them quickly in a pan with olive oil and salt just until they were warm and added them to the grilled steak, onions and greens.

My Red Wine Vinaigrette

1/2 cup red wine vinegar

1 1/2 teaspoons dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 cup olive oil

Combine the first five ingredients in a blender and slowly add olive oil.

Simple, easy, and delicious. Enjoy!

Put a Cork In It

2011-10-19T09:27:00.000-04:00

How can you recycle wine corks? I found these crafty ideas to inspire you.

How to make this keychain.

How to make this cork board.

How to make this wreath.

How to make this bath mat.

Plant It

2011-10-18T11:10:00.000-04:00

Forget the vase and take advantage of plant sales instead!

Scenes From Around New England: Boston

2011-10-17T10:22:00.000-04:00

I spent Saturday with my favorite people in my favorite city. We stopped to watch the street performers for a while after eating lunch out in the sun. Then it was off to chase down bagpipe music that seemed to permeate every neighborhood. Pipers were led from one landmark to the next ending their song at the Green Dragon Tavern. We stopped to grab some fruits and vegetables from America's original farmers' market in Haymarket Square. Soon, we found ourselves in the North End for a caffe and some dinner. More bagpipe music led us to gather outside St. Leonard Parish to wish a happy couple good fortune, health, and happiness.

FIVE

2011-10-14T11:05:00.001-04:00

...short films you must watch this weekend. Powerful performances (I love Patricia Clarkson in just about anything) and a candid look into the lives of the women and men who support and love the women (and men) who are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. By age 40, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. 1 in 8! I have already scheduled my mammogram. Have you?

Join in the fight: Wallgreen's Way to Well campaign, and Warriors in Pink, sponsored by Ford. "Like" Ford Warriors in Pink on Facebook and they'll donate $1 for every like. Please pass this on.

Directed by Jennifer Aniston, Demi Moore, Alicia Keys, Penelope Spheeris, and Patty Jenkins.

Click here for more details and viewing times.

Fall Gardening

2011-10-13T09:49:00.000-04:00

I'm still learning how to garden, so I'm never exactly sure what I should be doing at any given moment. I have daylilies that need dividing, lilacs that need transplanting, and a few herbs that will require some attention before the first hard frost. (I'll leave the other chores till the spring.)

In addition to mint, thyme (English and lemon), chives, lavender, and oregano, I have delicious, delightful sage in my garden. The silver green leaves stand out among the dark greens of the other herbs, and its peppery flavor always makes me think of the sage and onion stuffing I make every Thanksgiving. I often combine it with thyme (it tastes heavenly liberally dusted on roasted chicken and root vegetables), but I wanted to try something a little different.

That's when I came upon a recipe for sage pesto not too long ago and it got me thinking about other unique ways of using sage.

Sage Pesto

1 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

1 1/2 cups fresh sage leaves, firmly packed

1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup garlic chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1 lemon, juiced

Pepper to taste (optional)

Toast pine nuts (or walnuts) in a dry saute pan or in a 350 degree F oven on a sheet pan. Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender and process until a smooth.

Serve as a spread with cheese and crusty bread. On top of sauteed zucchini, tomatoes, and corn. With pasta (in place of basil pesto). Add a 1/3 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano to the recipe and more for serving.

Fried Sage

1 bunch fresh sage

1/4 cup olive oil
Coarse salt
1. Pinch off leaves from sage. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Fry 6–8 sage leaves at a time until crisp, 2–3 seconds. Transfer with a fork to paper towels and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.

Sprinkle on squash or bean soup, as an accompaniment to burgers, or eat as a snack.

Recipe via Saveur.com

More sage recipes:

Cocktail
Sage Bread
Sage Shortbread

In addition to all of the wonderful recipes you can try, sage has its medicinal uses as well. Use it for upset stomachs and sore throats. It's also an effective antibiotic and astringent. And my research also turned up information that found sage to be effective in the management of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, and linked to memory function and improved mood.

No wonder I love this herb so much.

Color: Orange Love

2011-10-12T09:50:00.000-04:00

It might be a bit cliche to write about the color orange during the month of October, but this vibrant hue is not just for pumpkins anymore.

Orange, like red, is an energizing, mouth-watering shade that would works wonders in a dining room, entry, or powder room. I'll even go out on a limb and say these shades would look fabulous in a home office, not to mention incredibly sexy in the bedroom. And it's a scrumptious color on the inside of a bookcase, too. The brown and black undertones of these particular shades pack just enough punch (but not too much) that you're left with its uplifting impact without having to wear a pair of shades to enter the room. (Keep pumpkin orange on the pumpkins please.)

Color Inspiration

Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams

BM Pumpkin Spice 126, SW Determined Orange 6635, SW Copper Pot 7709

BM Burnt Caramel 2167, SW Copper Wire 7707, BM Fall Harvest 2168

Got $20?

2011-10-11T10:46:00.000-04:00

Then you can create these fun burlap bulletin boards, too. All you need is two 2x3 bulletin boards from Walmart, 1 1/2-2 yards of burlap (depending on the width) from your local garden center (buy extra to make table runners, placemats...), and a heavy duty staple gun.

I already had the staple gun, but if you don't, plan on spending between $15-$25 depending on the brand. And although I did have some leftover burlap, I snagged two grain sacks from the grocery store for only $1.50 and I only used one.

Simply cut the burlap 2" longer and wider than the board. Lay the board face down and begin stapling the top and then the bottom as you keep the fabric taut and even at both ends. Once the ends are done, staple the sides the same way. Depending on the strength of your staple gun, you may want to hammer the staples securely into the frame.

I have hung my two boards over the table in my studio, and I plan to use them as bulletin boards and affix magazine photos and color samples to their surface. When class is not is session, however, I have two interesting (and very inexpensive) wall hangings to admire. You can also embellish your boards with painted letters or number (found at your local craft store) in either black or gold, or use nail heads or decorative ribbon to personalize them even more.

Cider House Rules

2011-10-07T10:21:00.000-04:00

You must always dunk your doughnuts. These Batter Drop Cider Donuts make the perfect little bite to dunk into hot cider, hot coffee, or hot tea. Not to mention an adorable way to greet your guests this Thanksgiving.

Cider Donuts

1 cup of apple cider, boiled down to 1/4 cup. Let cool.

2 cups flour

1/4 cup sugar

3 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon fresh, ground nutmeg

1/2 cup half and half

1 egg, slightly beaten

---------

1/3 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

3 cups of oil (Enough to fill a pan up to 3".

In a deep fryer or heavy 3-quart pan, heat 3-4 inches of oil to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and nutmeg, blend well. Add half and half, the concentrated apple cider, vanilla and egg. Stir with a fork until thoroughly mixed but don't over-mix.

Scoop mixture into a teaspoon and drop into hot oil, 5 or 6 at a time keeping the temperature at 375 degrees. Fry each donut hole between 1 and 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.

In a small bowl, combine the remaining sugar and cinnamon. Roll warm donut holes in the mixture. Coat evenly. (You can also use a plastic bag.)

Recipe courtesy of Cider Bellies Doughnuts. Image via libbyjamesblog.com

The Lace Reader

2011-10-06T10:58:00.000-04:00

Visit the Witch City (Salem, Massachusetts) in this eerie tale of three generations of women. Time Magazine said, "A richly, imagined saga of passion, suspense, and magic." This was Massachusetts author, Brunonia Barry's first novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Image via Barnesandnoble.com

Halloween Tabletop

2011-10-05T09:07:00.000-04:00

Last year, my youngest daughter decided she wanted a Halloween party. The house was already decorated, but I needed to come up with a slighly more formal table display so she and her guests could enjoy their snacks in style. As with all last minute decorating dilemmas, I pulled out what I already had and made a list of items I could find in town for very little money.

To decorate the table, I bought three packages of cheesecloth from the grocery store and a few yards of burlap from the garden center. I didn't cut or iron a thing, but simply layered one material over the other creating the burlap table runner by folding it into thirds.

I'm not a big fan of store-bought treat bags, so I pulled out my ancient stash of paper lunch sacks and some twine. After filling each bag with treats, I rolled the tops of each bag and cinched them with the twine.

Although I did have a few goodies on hand, it wouldn't be very expensive to duplicate this look. Instead of the faux grasses I used in the vase, gather a good handful of branches - with or without leaves - and wrap the stems together. I used addtional cheescloth around the vase, tucking and gathering as I wrapped, and added more twine to the bottom of the vase.

Here's the breakdown:

Cheesecloth - $8
Burlap - $6
Bowls - $1.99 each from Target. Total - $8
Jack-be-little pumpkins - $1 each. Total - $5
Mini skeletons - $1.99 each from Target. Total - $8
Twine - $4 for large roll
Paper bags - $2 per 100

See similar crows here and here.

Spotted: Vintage Keys

2011-10-04T10:16:00.003-04:00

I love vintage keys, so when I spotted this set from Pottery Barn, I knew I would add them to my wish list and (hopefully) score them before I decorate the house for Halloween. Use them individually on top of books, or toss the whole set onto a tray or into a bowl. (Only $19 and free shipping!)

The Magic of Childhood

2011-10-03T15:41:00.004-04:00

This will be the first Halloween in 23 years that I will not make costumes for my children. I will not cajole them into wearing crazy hats, scary make-up, or yards of sparkly fabric. I will not walk with them through the neighborhood dressed in witches black as the dried leaves swirl around our feet. I will not hear my little one knock on a door and cry “trick or treat” when it opens. It is the end of an era.

Of course I knew that one day they would be too old for tricks and treats. But somehow I thought it would go on forever, like Christmas, our annual apple picking trip, and family dinners around the table. That Harry Potter, Dr. Seuss, and the Berenstein Bears would remain close friends they would visit from time to time. And silly string and knock-knock jokes would still make them giggle. Clearly, I am in denial.

As they, and I, move from one phase of childhood into the next, it's hard to leave it all behind. So although I will mourn the loss of this particular family tradition, I will open my mind and my heart to embrace something new. But I will continue to teach them not to rush the days and weeks ahead, to slow down and take it all in. To listen for fireflies carrying fairies on their backs through the forest, to always make a wish when they blow out the candles, to eat dessert first every now and again, and to splash in the puddles as they walk down the street.

This Halloween, I will still decorate the house, more to please the child in me than anything else, and because, like the pages of a good book you can read again and again, childhood magic should go on forever.

P.S. I will always believe in Santa Claus, too.

(A walk down memory lane.)

Read more thoughts here.

Don't Let It Go to Your Head

2011-09-30T11:21:00.004-04:00

Or better yet, please do. When a full body massage isn't possible, enjoy a relaxing scalp massage. Why not this weekend?

You'd be amazed how much tension can be relieved. But there's another advantage, it also promotes healthy hair because massaging the scalp stimulates blood flow to the follicles, and dead skin cells and dandruff are removed from the scalp's surface. The follicles are better able to receive nutrients and therefore hair growth may occur and hair loss is prevented. And, a scalp massage may offer relief to those suffering from migraines or headaches.

The Brush Technique (Massage for 1 or 2): Using a natural-bristle brush, and brushing from root to tip slowly, will stimulate the scalp and promote relaxation. Take turns brushing each other's hair, or relax in your favorite chair and sit slightly forward as you brush from one side to the next. Once the hair is brushed out, run your fingers through the hair in upward strokes paying close attention to temples, forehead, and the top of the neck.

Essential Oils: Warm a small amount of olive, jojoba, or almond oil and gently massage into the scalp starting from the temples and moving towards the center. The goal is to not necessarily coat the hair, but to use the oil to help glide your hands all over the head. You can add essential oils like lavender (relaxing), peppermint (invigorating), or rosemary (to promote hair growth).

Hair and Scalp Treatment: Use your favorite conditioner or hair moisturizer combined with a little water to work into the scalp and saturate the hair.

Use a towel under the receiver's head to keep the products from getting onto furniture or carpet, and use a combination of circular and kneading motions, pressing slightly every so often, to massage the scalp. You can even move the massage down to the neck and the tops of shoulders for added pleasure.

Enjoy!

Image via buzzle.com

It's a Man's World

2011-09-29T11:02:00.000-04:00

I have a tendency to gravitate towards a more masculine look, both at home and in the way I dress every day. I like the rich fabrics, colors, and the construction of more tailored pieces like this look pictured above. And this time of year, it's all about the scarf - the bigger the better. In fact, I prefer a nice, wide stole and save the narrow, shorter versions to wear tucked into sweaters and blouses, while tossing a large, colorful (or not so colorful) stole over a jacket or my fur vest. I even wear them indoors wrapping myself up in its blanket-like warmth.

You can find all kinds of colors and prints in a variety of fabrications. I love cashmere, fine wool, and silk blends, depending on the season. It's a great way to update your wardrobe.

Scanned photo - source unknown

Blast From the Past

2011-09-28T09:21:00.002-04:00

Just a decade ago, this little gem of a room showed up in my style file and has stayed there ever since. Although, technically, the leather chairs are the wrong scale, I wouldn't mind having them around my own coffee table. The short-legged table keeps these chairs from looking like doll furniture. And did you notice the writing on the chair and pillow? Yes, these are now in vogue again, making this "trend" wear out its definition. Future classic? Perhaps. But what really struck me about this room is the pop of color. From the cobalt blue glass hurricanes, to the blue-teal paint on the door, and finally to the blue-purple hydrangeas on the table, this room can sashay between seasons with ease. Does this room still work today? It, too, gets a resounding yes vote.

I had intended to post a style don't, but the picture I chose is just too ugly for my cute little blog. If you want to see the photo and ask yourself, What the heck were they thinking?, please visit my Facebook page. It's a doozy!

Image scanned from Classic American Home magazine

Pile It On

2011-09-27T11:03:00.000-04:00

Watches, bracelets, beads, bangles... wrap your wrists with a mix of materials people just can't help but notice. I'm forever wrapping necklaces around my wrists.

Can You Judge a Book by Its Cover?

2011-09-26T16:03:00.001-04:00

I certainly did when I found this book at my local bookstore over the weekend. I recommended Julia Cameron's book The Right to Write over the summer, and some of her other books are always on friend's must-read lists, but this cover struck me. First, I'm a sucker for packaging, and the picture of the plate and fountain pen - a sort of play on words with image - made me pick up the book and thumb through it. At first, I wasn't quite sure if it was indeed a diet book or another tomb of writing tools. I almost didn't care and tucked the book under my arm before finally putting it back on the shelf. All the while thinking...if I had to live on a writing diet, what would that mean to me?

Well, my collection of Anna Quindlen books would definitely become my roughage - I need it in my diet, and it's very good for me. (Sorry for the blunt description, Anna. This is written with love.) My Frances Mayes books would serve as my grains. They would make me rich and full and promote positive energy. Dear Jane (Austen, that is) is my dessert - a saucy tart served with a drizzle of sarcasm and a dollop of quaint humor. (Although, Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray, Love would fit nicely in this category as well.) The meat - well, the meat is reading great writing. And since I've never been a big fan of dairy, I felt it only right that I leave this out of my writing/reading diet, too.

But, what about trimming the fat? Do I need to pretend that I only read literature of a certain caliber? Or can I just admit that I like the fat. I like to read something sinful, and indulgent. And I like to write about (seemingly trivial) things like home and family and about all of the little moments that make life happy and sad and everything in between.

And all of this great writing leads me to write down my own thoughts on paper - like this blog post, born from a simple image that made me think in a different way. Thoughts that would remain locked away if I didn't allow myself to write whatever was on my mind at any given moment.

I will, of course, give Ms. Cameron's book its due and really find out what it's all about. But in the meantime, I will gaze at this picture and be inspired to enjoy a well-rounded diet of the written word - yours, mine, and ours.

Image via barnesandnoble.com

Chicken and Apples!

2011-09-23T07:23:00.000-04:00

As I wrap up my last day of class today, I am dreaming of apple picking with my family, and this chicken recipe from the folks over at the Food Network.

Honey Mustard Chicken and Apples

8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thigh (2 to 2 1/2 pounds)

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, cut into large chunks

2 cooking apples (such as Cortland), cut into chunks

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

2 to 3 tablespoons honey mustard

1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter, softened

1 tablespoon all-pupose flour

1 to 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook until golden, about 6 minutes. Flip and cook 2 to 3 more minutes, then transfer to a plate. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the drippings.

Add the onion and apples to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until slightly softened, about 4 minutes. Mix the broth with the mustard, then add to the skillet and bring to a boil. Arrange the chicken, skin-side up, in the skillet. Transfer to the oven and roast until the chicken is cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes.

Mix the butter and flour to form a paste. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken, apples and onion to plates. Bring the pan juices to a simmer, whisk in about half of the butter-flour mixture and boil to thicken, 2 minutes. Continue to cook, adding more of the butter-flour mixture as needed to make a slightly thick gravy. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over the chicken and sprinkle with parsley.

Spotted: Mercury Glass

2011-09-22T07:18:00.000-04:00

Shine on. These mercury glass vases from West Elm range in price from 12.00-39.00 and are perfect for any time of year.

These votive holders from Pottery Barn start at just 16.50. Fill with a flower bud in the spring and holiday candies in the winter.

This gorgeous light fixture from designer Jamie Young is around 150.00 at Lamps Plus.

Want to add a little shine to your home? Make your own mercury glass accents with these tips from Krista Watterworth and this metallic spray.

Fall Decorating

2011-09-21T07:32:00.000-04:00

Layer it on. Blankets, area rugs, art, accessories - the more the merrier. I love the way the fur blanket has been casually "slipcovered" onto the seat cushion. Not only is this a great trick to add another pattern, color and/or texture into your room, but it's also a great way to hide a small fabric tear as well. Consider adding a fabric remnant to the back of a chair or sofa to achieve the same effect.

Pile high. Who says books have to be placed on bookshelves? If your collections are getting the best of you, simply stack them on the floor. Keep the look from becoming too chaotic by using the same color binding in each stack.

More is more. If you have more than three of something, why not show them off. These wonderful suitcases not only make a statement in this hallway, they provide extra storage, too.

Images scanned from H&H and Country Living magazines

Jewelry My Way

2011-09-20T07:36:00.000-04:00

Costume jewelry never looked so good. Instead of wearing your favorite piece, why not adorn a lamp, dress up an ordinary bag, or accesorize a pillow. Drape sparkly necklaces from a lamp lightswitch or simply drape or wrap strands of beads around the lampshade.

Mix traditional with the exotic.

Add some color to contrast or coordinate with your outfit.

And if you're like me, you have a few big earring from the 80s that are just too pretty to toss but definitely too big to wear. Clip them onto a bag or a pair of shoes and bask in the compliments.

And if you don't, then you have something new to thrift for. Here are a few more ideas...

Gift a piece and use it to decorate another gift wrapped in a scarf.
Shop at bead stores and purchase ropes of colorful beads that you can mix and match.
Wrap necklaces around your wrist and wear as a bracelet.
Consider securing a lightweight necklace around a ponytail.
If you find a necklace long enough, step into it and use it as a belt knotted at the waist.

Spotted: Caged Lighting

2011-09-19T07:18:00.000-04:00

This vintage-inspired fixture will add a touch of whimsy to a porch, kitchen, or den. And for only $99.99, it's a steal! Grab one while you can.

This caged filament light is from Restoration Hardware and would work wonderfully in an office space. Priced right (and on sale) at $105.00.

This trio (plus one lone vintage iron pendant) of hanging lights are priced between $69.95 and $139.00 and can be found at Art & Artifact.

And while you're there, check out these gorgeous glass pendants, too. Only $85.00 each!

Scenes From Around New England: Goodbye Summer

2011-09-16T07:28:00.001-04:00

Salt air, bog roads, lazy days... all surrounded by family. This is summer in New England. What better way to say good-bye summer than to show off its beauty.

Get Organized: Pretty Shelves

2011-09-15T11:45:00.001-04:00

People are surprised when they open my bathroom linen closet and find shelves filled with fruit baskets. Among the towels and cleaning supplies, sloped baskets are placed so the tall side faces out and you don't see what's inside until you slide the basket out. I'm also a stickler for packaging. Price tags are removed, boxes are recycled, and if the container isn't pretty, I find something else to put it in that is. I feel that everything in your home should give you immense pleasure - whether you use it or simply look at it. So the next time you have to get organized, think about how you feel when you open up that closet, cabinet, or look at a shelf. Could you spruce up plain shelving with wallpaper or fabric remnants (adhered to homesote board inserts or applied directly to the wall), find a new use for that empty, yet pretty face powder container, trim shelves with grosgrain ribbon, or use everyday objects in new ways? I'm sure you can.

Image via countryliving.com

Blast From the Past

2011-09-14T08:43:00.001-04:00

Last week, I mentioned that I would share old magazine clippings with you to see if you think the "look" would still work today. Here is another. This clipping dates back to 1998. The two pieces - the table and the twig chair - are an unexpected mix of textures and styles. Why does it work? Because the table's distressed finish makes this formal piece much more compatible with the rustic chair. This is one of the key elements in blending styles with ease. But, is this look still in? Again, my vote is an enthusiastic yes. I love mixing the formal with the informal and combining contemporary and more traditional elements together.

Image scanned from Better Homes & Gardens magazine

Nate Berkus: Doing What He Does Best

2011-09-13T11:10:00.000-04:00

The second season of The Nate Berkus Show aired yesterday and I'm happy to report that he's up to his old tricks. If you loved his surprise makeovers on Oprah, you won't be disappointed. Nate's no nonsense approach to design has made his brand (Check out his wares on HSN) synonymous with living well. And, you'll learn how to add similar looks to your own home for very little money. In addition, if you're a design-savvy viewer, consider sending in your home photos and be featured on the show like Tamara from Texas did. Her coffee table vignette is a mix of old, new, and not-so-expensive finds. (Like this beautiful brush she snagged for just $19!)

Check out his first makeover for season two here.

Get This Look

Find the acrylic coffee table here.

Find similar accent chairs here and here.

Find similar floor lamp here.

Find similar desk here.

Find similar desk lamp here and here.

Find similar rug here.

Find similar comforter here.

Images via thenateshow.com and The Nate Berkus show

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2011-09-12T10:22:00.000-04:00

School sports, apple picking, the crisp air... do you really need another reason to pack up the car and enjoy a meal outdoors before the weather turns? For me, attending a football game is just an excuse to pull out the plaid blankets and cook up a hearty soup or a big pot of chili. And sometimes I don't even need to pack up the car, I simply spread out a blanket on the living room floor and enjoy my picnic, rain or shine. Here is a list of essentials, and a few recipes that may inspire you to plan your own picnic, and whether you watch the game or not.

Spotted: Plaid blanket for $21.99. Baskets of all shapes and sizes starting at $9.99. 12-piece melamine dinnerware set for $24.00 and a set of 6 polycarbonite tumblers for $29.99. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold with this 16-oz. Thermos food jar for $20.99.

Image via bhg.com

Savor Summer Tomatoes

2011-09-09T09:05:00.000-04:00

If only we could bottle summer tomatoes and treat ourselves to delicious salads, soups, and snacks all year long. I'll settle for some soup and sauce.

Passata

"Passata" means "passed through", so the first thing you need to do in order to make tomato sauce is prepare the tomatoes.

10 lbs. ripe plum tomatoes

1 cup fresh basil leaves (plus 2-3 extra per jar of sauce)

1/4 cup kosher salt or sea salt

Wash tomatoes. Cut them in half and squeeze out and discard excess seeds. Place tomatoes in a large pot over medium-high heat. Stir in basil and salt. Bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer and cook 40 minutes, stirring continually so that the tomatoes won't stick or burn on the bottom. Pass mixture through a food mill.

Place 2-3 basil leaves into each of your (sanitized) 32-ounce (or smaller) canning jars. Pour tomatoes into jars, leaving 1/2-inch air space at the top. Seal well and process in boiling water for 40 minutes. Yield: about 5 32-ounce jars.

Tomato Sauce

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, sliced in half

6 fresh basil leaves

2 cups Passata (or 1 16-ounce can peeled tomatoes passed through a food mill)

2 teaspoons kosher salt or sea salt

1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes

In a large sauce pot on a medium setting, heat olive oil, garlic, and basil. Cook gently about 2 minutes, until fragrant. Don't brown. Raise the heat to medium-high and add the Passata, salt, and red-pepper flakes.

When sauce comes to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer 30-35 minutes. Remove garlic cloves. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside until ready to use over pasta.

Recipes and image via yankeemagazine.com

International Literacy Day

2011-09-08T11:24:00.000-04:00

Today, one in five adults is still not literate and about two-thirds of them are women, while 67.4 million children are out of school.* These figures are staggering. Which is why the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has proclaimed September 8th International Literacy Day. It was first celebrated in 1966, and every year since, UNESCO has raised public awareness of the extraordinary value of the written word and of the necessity to promote a literate society. Writers such as Toni Morrison, Margaret Atwood, Paulo Coelho, and Amy Tan support their efforts through the Writers for Literacy Initiative. But you can help, too.

Read.

Volunteer your time and read to children (and adults) at a homeless shelter, the library, or at a school reading workshop. Gift books to young readers to encourage learning and the love of reading. Then sit back and watch as the world unfolds before them.

(This is a great way to commemorate our National Day of Service on September 11th.)

*Statistic from ENESCO

Image via barnesandnoble.com

Blast From the Past

2011-09-07T10:21:00.000-04:00

I love looking through my books of magazine clippings. Some date as far back as 1985, and a few are even older than that. Are the looks still in? Most are not, but a few of the designs have withstood the test of time. I thought it would be fun to share these photos with you to see if you agree.

This lovely chest of drawers is a clipping without a date, but I know the book it came out of dates back at least 5 years. Does it pass the test? Would you consider putting this piece - provided it was a style you liked - in your entry? My vote is yes. I wouldn't change a thing. In fact, a chest of drawers is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own. And it's a smart addition to an entry where mail, the dog's leash, hats, and mittens can be stored away and out of sight, but within reach.

Consider adding a small chest to any room of the house - for linens in the bath, as a TV and media center in the den, as a bar in the living room, or to keep office supplies in style in a home office.

Image scanned, magazine unknown

Color Inspiration

2011-09-06T10:24:00.004-04:00

Can be found everywhere - even at the fair this past weekend.

Just a little. (Benjamin Moore 2133-40 Onyx and 967 Cloud White. )

Or a lot. (Benjamin Moore 2132-20 Ebony King.)

Color inspiration from Sherwin Williams.

(Click picture to see color names and numbers.)

Movie Night

2011-09-02T13:58:00.000-04:00

If you don't have plans this weekend, consider creating your very own drive-in for you and your family. Throw a sheet on the porch wall, or in this case, over the barn door, and treat yourself to a marathon of classic movies. Beg, borrow, or rent a projector (google rentals in your area), and get your DVDs ready. (Or simply drag the TV outside.)

Serve all your movie favorite treats like popcorn and candy. Set out the lawn chairs, beanbags, or blankets out on the lawn or the porch. And let the kids play concession stand or have them deliver your goodies waitress-style.

It's still not too late to host a movie night in your backyard before the weather gets too cool. Do it up right by serving root beer floats in mason jars with barbershop straws. Rent a popcorn machine while your at it and serve your guests their own individual boxes. Or make big batches of your favorite gourmet popcorn and serve them up in brown or white lunch bags.

Have fun this Labor Day weekend!

Images scanned from Country Home magazine