Happy Halloween

The year I moved into this neighborhood, I invited to a baby shower for a woman on the next street a few days after Halloween.  Since the neighborhood was new construction, we all moved in at approximately the same time and were "new neighbors."  

I thought that a baby shower was a perfect way for us to get to know each other.  I remember talking to some of the women that night and saying that I had really "screwed up" on Halloween.  They seemed confused and asked "What does that mean?" 

I exclaimed, "I forgot to hold back any Mounds!"  

The next day, my doorbell rang and my neighbor Mona was standing there with a small Ziploc bag full of Mounds.  I have loved living here ever since.

Wishing you a Happy Halloween!  

Map of Paris tray

Paris has been on my mind lately (I wrote a book about it, in fact!), so naturally it is coming out in my crafting!  Lately I have been experimenting with decoupage (the art of using glue to attach paper images to an object) and I think this simple version is actually my favorite.  Traditionally, decoupaged items have several layers of images all working together.  On my tray, I let the "variety" of images come from the icons on the map itself. 

This decorative tray is made with only 3 items - plate, map, glue.  I have spread a thin layer of decoupage medium (in this case, Hard Coat Mod Podge) on the bottom of a square glass plate and then gently placed onto the glue (right side down against the glue) a paper map of Paris.  Once the map is in place, I smoothed the bubbles out with my fingers and then I trimmed away the excess paper (along the edges of the plate) with scissors. 

Essentially, the map is glued to the bottom of the plate and is visible through the glass.  I love this because it allows the glass plate to remain "food safe," because the glue is on the underside of the plate.  I'll have to hand wash it, of course, and keep water away from the map side, but that's okay.  When I get a chance, I am going to glue a piece of black felt to the back of the plate.  This will cover the back of the map and give the plate a professional finish.

Now I can "stroll along the Seine," in my own living room.  

Chalkware Sheep

Baa!  I found a flock of sheep!

I have been thinking about the nature of personal collections lately.  The idea that often people are known for loving a particular object, place (Paris!) or animal and collect items that are in that shape or have that image on them. 

When I was in second grade, my teacher loved owls.  She wore owl pins to school, had owl pictures on the wall and, of course, a cartoon owl on a mug on her desk.  When we went to her apartment for dinner (Yes, she invited 4 students at a time to dine at her house!  For second grade, we felt very grown up.), I was blown away by her virtual sanctuary of owl collectibles.  I had never seen anything like it.

A few weeks ago, I bought these chalkware sheep at our church's rummage sale.  They are antique and since I have an affinity for sheep (remember my desire to photograph them in England?) , I had to get them.  While I was wandering the sale, I noticed quite a few other objects in the sheep motif and bought a framed photo of sheep from the 1920s.

I knew that a friend at church had been packing up her house, retiring and moving down south, so I went out on a limb and asked her,  "I bought some darling chalkware sheep - could you have given them to the sale?  And a vintage print.  It seemed like someone had donated a collection."

You can call me Nancy Drew, because they were, in fact, hers!  It was wonderful to be able to tell her that they had gone to a good home.  She was so happy to hear that I like sheep that she entrusted me with the rest of her tabletop sheep collection!  It was very sweet of her to pass these items along to me.  They were not pieces she wanted to take with her; they were things that she had loved, but that now it was time for her to move on.  I still don't collect sheep, but I feel honored to be able to absorb her collection and ease her transition to a new life down South. 

Which brings me back to collecting.  Do you have a plan to pass your treasures along?  Would a library treasure your historic map collection?  Would a historical society like your quilts?  I haven't figured out what I will do with my collections (everything from vintage ornaments to paper houses), all I want is for them to continue to bring delight.  

Make a Display Stand

I wanted to highlight the pedestal display stand that I made, but I think my turkey cookie cutter is stealing the show!

My new weakness is attending rummage sales.  A suburban-version of "picking," I have really found some treasures lately.  An entire bag of antique cookie cutters was just 25 cents.  I collect cookie cutters, as you know, and I couldn't turn down this grouping that included a cow, horse and now regal turkey.  

When I was in the kitchen adding the book page fringe to my cake plate, I noticed how "at home" the tin cookie cutters looked with this color palate.  I knew that I would display them here before the glue was dry.

Okay, onto the cake plate.  I was inspired to make my own from an article I saw in Family Circle - their display stand was black with decoupaged Halloween paper.  But I like what I saw and tweaked it for my style.

2-tier Display Stand 

2 unfinished wooden plates (12" and 13")
1 unfinished wooden candlestick
1 inexpensive wooden embroidery hoop
a bottle of acrylic paint (Martha Stewart craft paint at Michael's Craft in "Wet Cement")
a bottle of decoupage medium
a book you can craft with
scissors
Xacto knife or rotary blade
Scalloped rotary blade
a bottle of Sobo craft glue
small adhesive felt pads/circles

Use Elmer's wood glue to attach one embroidery hoop (the piece without the metal) to the center of the bottom of the larger plate.  This raises the plate off the surface and allows room for the fringe.

Use wood glue to glue the bottom of the candlestick to the center of the top of the larger plate.  When it is dry, put wood glue on top of the candlestick and center the bottom of the smaller plate on top of it.  (Both plates should be facing up.)  Allow to dry.

Paint all of the exposed wood (although I skipped the hoop and bottom of largest plate - no one will see it).  Allow to dry.

Coat all of the painted areas with a thin coat of decoupage medium.  This gives your display stand a more finished (and less chalky) appearance. Allow to dry.

Cut (1 inch wide x 6 inches long) strips from an old book, by placing a ruler along the page and running an Xacto knife or rolling blade (be careful!) through several pages at once.  Trim off the inch or so of blank paper that was the book margin on each end.  

Run a scalloped rotary cutter along one side (of the 6 inch long strips) to create a wavy line.  Use scissors to cut short vertical snips to make the strip fringe.  Glue the uncut edge (above the fringe) to the edge of the smaller plate.  Glue the strips of fringe around the plate with Sobo or craft glue, overlapping the ends to create a seamless look.

Make another set of fringed strips for the larger bottom plate, but make the strips about 1/2 as wide.  So these strips should be 1/2 inch wide and 6 inches long.  Scallop, fringe and glue as above.

Place a few adhesive felt pads on the bottom of the embroidery hoop to prevent scratching your table.

Enjoy!

Blenheim Palace Mineral Water

It was my first meal in London and I was already asking for favors.  I thought that bottled water was a smart choice as I transitioned to a different time zone etc., so I ordered a big bottle.  Look what they brought me!  A beautiful bottle of mineral water that was "drawn from the aquifer within Blenheim Palace." 

Blenheim Palace was a destination on my trip!  Only days after this, I planned to leave London and tour this palace turned museum.  Remember when I had the place to myself? 

I immediately told the waiter at the gorgeous street-level restaurant in Fortnum and Mason that I loved the statuesque bottle and asked if I could take it with me once it was empty.  

He winked and said, "Of course."  On the label was an image of cherub riding a serpent in the calm colors of gray, khaki and aqua.  I had to add it to my bottle collection.  By the end of the trip I had two matching bottles and I plan to grow ivy in one of them for my kitchen.

Now tell me, wouldn't you want to take this bottle with you?

Tiny Bouquets

Today's "moment of delight" is about placing one tiny bouquet in an unexpected place in your house.  The result is always the same: surprise, appreciation and joy.

I tucked two "French Lace" roses (one open and one still a bud) into a little lidded jar and placed it on the shelf of the plate rack in my family room.  The scent, the soft color, the fact that they were "fresh" all added so much to the room.

The next time you walk around your yard, see if you can't find a bloom or two to tuck in a small jar.  Or see if the grocery store has a bouquet you  can break up into a few smaller arrangements.  Leave your mini-masterpiece next to the powder room sink or on a bookcase in front of all the books.  I think the number of times you notice it (and like it) will surprise you.  If your friends and family notice too?  Consider it a bonus!

IngenuiTEA

I love that I finally have an easy way to brew loose tea.  I've tried using metal tea wands, filling paper tea bags, filtering tea through an over-the-cup strainer - you name it, I've tried it.  Nothing works as easily and as well as the Adagio Teas 0 16-Ounce Ingenuitea Teapot.

You put loose tea into the chamber, pour hot water over the tea, close the lid and let it steep.  When your tea is ready to drink, you pick up the IngenuiTEA by the handle and center it over your teacup.  Resting it on the rim of the teacup creates pressure that dispenses the tea into your cup! 

As you watch the level of tea in the teapot go down, you know that the tea is being filtered and pouring into your teacup below.  What a marvelous invention.  The only trick is estimating when to stop and lift the IngenuiTEA off the rim.  If you leave it on too long, you may find your cup overflows, but you'll get the hang of it.  I haven't spilled yet!

After a string of dark and damp afternoons, I am back to my ritual of afternoon tea.  Thanks, IngenuiTEA, for making it easy to enjoy a hot cup of tea from Laduree in Paris!

Lovely Locket

Sometimes jewelry making is as simple as keeping your eye out for the perfect piece!

I lucked out when I found this vintage-style locket in the jewelry department of the craft store.  That's right, the craft store. Displayed as part of a series of lockets and charms. 

Two metal doves, a mother-of-pearl looking locket rimmed with faux diamonds and pearls - what more could a girl want?  I bought this pendant as is and hung it from a double strand of tiny champagne-colored pearlized beads.  I had the tiny beads at home and all I had to do was string them on a wire and add a clasp to make this lovely locket look like an antique.

My suggestion is that you keep your eye out at craft stores, antique malls and everywhere in between.  You never know when you'll find something special.  Take a look at this pretty pendant - it could be the perfect touch. 

Dreamy

Every once in a while, life gives me very my own inspirational poster.  It was just after 6pm on a cool August afternoon and although a sunset was out of the question (too cloudy), the streams of light shining down on Lake Michigan was a wonderful way to end the day.

Images like this do inspire me - it helps me to stop and look back on activities of the day.  Did I accomplish enough?  Am I making strides?  What can I be sure to do tomorrow?  It might sound stressful, but it helps me to meet my goals.  What inspires you? 

Caramel Apple Advancement

Must. Have. Caramel Apples.  There has been a BIG advancement in caramel apple making, have you heard?  Kraft has started selling Caramel Bits.  Tiny unwrapped balls of caramel ready for melting!

No more unwrapping those cellophane wrappers.  No more static cling as you try to set them down.  Just open the bag and pour them into the saucepan to melt.  Genius.

And for those who want to follow my example, I have been skipping the melting step all together.  I cut up a Honey Crisp apple, put the apple chunks in a bowl and pour the unmelted caramel bits around them like filling a moat.  Then as I snack, I eat a slice of apple, pop a few caramel bits in my mouth.  Repeat.  No fuss, no muss, but still all the caramel apple taste that I want in October.  Thank you, Kraft!      

Donating Dolls

I think every little girl should have a new doll at the holidays, don't you? 

My mom and I are volunteers for the Detroit Goodfellows Doll Program.  Each December since 1924, the Goodfellows have coordinated the volunteers and distribution of over 12,000 dolls to needy children in metro Detroit.

The dolls are mailed to us in the Spring, then we spend the Summer scouring local shops for pretty clothes and accessories.  Here are the girls, all dressed and ready to be loved.

If you are interested in supporting this program, registration usually begins in March and the distribution of dolls to volunteers begins in May/June. I will re-post this blog in March to remind you to sign up. 

I am so happy to have this opportunity to bring delight to some little girls. 

Round Hay Bales

Every year from May-September, I am "on the road" a lot driving between metro Detroit and the cottage.  It takes 5 hours to cross our great state and get "up north."  I actually love the drive - the scenery is beautiful and it is a wonderful time for uninterrupted conversations.

When I was young, seeing small rectangular hay bales on Michigan farms was the norm.  Then in my twenties, I started seeing the occasional round hay bale and I fell for their smooth, tight shape.  As we drove up north, I would keep my eye out and it would feel like a bonus if I noticed one.

Nowadays, I see round hale bales everywhere.  The old farm equipment must have worn out and the farms must have opted for the newer shape.  I love it, of course, and am still happy when I see a stack.  I pulled onto the shoulder to take this beautiful farm scene.  I hope you can feel the breeze and smell the freshly cut hay.

Missoni 3 Piece Tray

Acorns and Arrows.  The table in my entryway has a lovely Native American feel thanks to my Missoni For Target 3-piece tray.

What I like about this piece is that it is made of ceramic.  Certainly substantial enough to serve food on a Thanksgiving table or cocktail party buffet.

And as I was describing it to someone, I realized that the colors are: black, white, taupe, caramel and...well...acorn!  Look how perfectly these real acorns match the softer hued stripe.

If I hadn't been so rushed (I was part of the early morning Missoni For Target sell-out), I'm not sure that I would have chosen a piece with a pattern this bold.  But the fact that it was made & sold in 3 pieces spoke to me and I just didn't want to miss out.  I felt that my white (with touches of black and green and brown) living room could support it, and I was right!

By keeping this knock out on the front table (just behind where this photo was taken), your eye has a chance to take in the pattern on the white table and see the colors reinforced in the room behind it.  Can you see how it would work?  I love it. 

Ice Cream Balls

Two memories collided and the result is this party-worthy ice cream ball.  When I was in high school, my best friend's brother had a signature dessert that he would make for the family.  He would roll large scoops of vanilla ice cream in chopped peanuts and then freeze them.  When it was time for dessert, he'd serve each ice cream ball in a sundae dish doused with chocolate sauce. I remember that the adults had the option of a splash of Creme de Menthe liquor before the chocolate drizzle, but it never tempted me.  I just wanted as much chocolate syrup as he would allow.  It was delicious - cold and nutty and creamy.  Whenever the stars and moons aligned and I was "staying for dinner" the same night he happened to be making ice cream balls, I rejoiced.

Years later as an adult, I visited The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.  This historic hotel, built in 1887, was the location for one of my favorite movies, Somewhere In Time.  Have you see it?  It's pure magic. 

One of the Grand Hotel's signature desserts is the "Grand Pecan Ball."  Vanilla ice cream rolled in chopped pecans and topped with chocolate sauce.  I must say, the pecans elevate the dish.  It was served after dinner in the formal dining room on a china plate with a tiny pitcher of chocolate sauce.

So I have merged these two memories (the chopped peanuts from my friend's bother and the formal serving of the Grand Hotel) and am urging you to give it a try.  The nuts create a crust around the ice cream and it is delicious!

Are you thinking about Thanksgiving?  So many of us have multiple holiday meals that week with different family and friends.  I'd like to suggest caramel or pumpkin ice cream (buy a carton at the store) rolled in pecans.  It could hit the spot and be nice for a "we had pie last night" meal.  

Paris: Delight in the City of Light note

You can only imagine how happy I was to receive this note!  My friend had given my book (Paris: Delight in the City of Light) to one of her colleagues as a gift to celebrate an upcoming mother/daughter trip to Paris.

The note is from her colleague to me saying how much fun she had in Paris and how my suggestions enhanced her trip.  Magnifique!  She even included a tea bag (Le Melange Fauchon blend) from Fauchon for me to enjoy - isn't that the nicest thing!  I am going to drink it today and savour a little bit of Paris myself.

What made this note so special was the mind-blowing line "On the flight over, we passed your book through the plane."  I think my heart stopped.  Can you think of anything more gratifying for an author/photographer than to hear that a plane full of people flying to Paris, had the chance to be inspired by my book?  I have a pretty good imagination, but I never thought of this.

Thank you, dear reader, for letting me know how much you enjoyed Paris: Delight in the City of Light! 

 

You can buy "Paris: Delight in the City of Light" in the sidebar on the right or International Customers, you can purchase it through Amazon.

Tissue Paper Bouquet

I wanted a bouquet of flowers that would last.  And last.  This pretty pink arrangement looks as beautiful as the day I brought it to the hospital.  All thanks to Martha Stewart and her tissue paper flower machine.  

Yes, I said machine.  Years ago I bought a paper flower crafting tool from the Martha Stewart Catalog For Living.  It must have been at least ten years ago now, I can't even find an example of it to show you on the web!

With this tool, I simply lay a small stack of tissue paper on the grid lines, close the arm and slowly pull the lever down.  The result is perfectly folded sheets of tissue paper that can be pinched in the middle with a ribbon tie and then fluffed into flowers.  Love it!

I did find these paper flower instructions on the Martha Stewart website.  You can follow these steps and get the same effect as mine.  To get the "Dahlia" look of the petals (flower, shown in front), cut a "V" in the end of the folded tissue stack before fluffing.  To get the look of a peony, leave the stack uncut and simply fluff.

Then, to drive the nurses crazy, put your arrangement in a French lemonade bottle with a pink label and tie it with a grosgrain ribbon.  This little beauty says "Get Well Soon!"

Pink Dishtowels

I am pulling out my pink dish towels!  The September issue of House Beautiful magazine has a photo of plaid dish towels that has inspired me to rummage through my cupboards.

The page is meant to send us out shopping for the latest super cute plaid dish towels.  And I agree, they look beautiful.  But what about the pretty ones we already own?

I realized that I have been in the wash/fold/use/repeat mode with my dish towels and while the mint and green ones I have been using are nice, I know that changing to this collection of pink towels will feel wonderful.  Do you know what I mean? 

It is time to use what I have and enjoy it all the while.  I'm sure that you have some beautiful linens tucked away at your place.  You bought them (or they were a gift to you) to use and enjoy.  It's time.



Yarn Bombing

Do you know about the crafty craze called "yarn bombing?"  It is the act of decorating an object in a public space with a piece of knitting.  The neat thing is that while it is technically graffiti, the knit pieces are non-permanent and easily removed without causing any damage.  If no one objects, they can last for years.  The intention of yarn bombing is to improve or add beauty to an otherwise sterile public environment.

I've read about this practice (also called a yarnstorm or yarnstorming) in knitting magazines for years, but had never seen one in person.  Then one day this Summer, I left a shop in Traverse City and walked toward the curb.  I passed this parking meter and immediately did a double-take.  My mind hollered, "That's a yarn bomb!"

I must say, I approve.  The whole concept is a bit like the smiley face icon of the 1970's.  It popped up everywhere in the hopes of improving your mood. 

Discovering of a yarn bomb has the same kind of result - somewhere between finding a missing puzzle piece and being in on a secret.  Once you know about yarn bombs, when you notice one, you know exactly what it is: A knitter's attempt to improve the world. 

And how can you do anything but smile?

Teacup Cupcakes

Could there be anything on earth more perfect for me?  I mean really, cupcake molds that look like teacups!  I am in heaven.

My sister-in-law Susan found these Fred & Friends Teacup Cakes Cupcake Mold in Texas and mailed them to me for my birthday.  Today I was my first chance to bake in them and they turned out great.  I have already eaten the cupcake on the left and I can assure you that they bake up perfectly.  I squeezed the sides a little bit and I could lift the cupcake right out - yum!

Since it is a weeknight, I used a box cake mix and tub of frosting to whip up this batch after dinner.  Delish.  And everything is better with pink pearl nonpareils, don't you think?

"I enjoy being a girl." Ha!

Tulip Time

Tulips are proof that gardeners are organized and optimistic!

This time of year there is a chill in the air.  The trees are changing from green to every imaginable shade of red, yellow and orange.  The magazines are full of chili recipes.  There is college football on television every Saturday.  It is Fall and the cider mill beckons. 

But we will not be distracted.  Gardeners around the country are faithfully planning a spectacular Spring 2012.  Fall is the time to plant Spring blooming bulbs: tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and then even more tulips.  Just look at the sea of white tulips with delicate green markings (above) called "Spring Green."  It makes me want to fill my beds with tulips!

My favorite collection of tulips is a pastel mix that says "Easter Bonnet" mix on the packaging.  In life and lipsticks, it is all about the name.  When I heard the phrase "Easter Bonnet" it was all over.  I've found this collection in upscale garden centers (as well as the link I provided above), but shop early.  All the other girls like the name too!

Fall Tablescapes

It's all coming together.  This collection of unusual pieces creates the prefect Fall tablescape - one that is beautiful and interesting. 

I've told you about my love of cockscomb flowers...look at how I can showcase them in my knit vase.  I knit the cover on circular needles to fit a coffee can! 

I've talked about my set of commemorative tin plates from the Royal Collection.  Each plate features a china design from a different time period.  This particular plate is called "The Animal Plate."  The central image is of a lion and the design is thought to have been created by Sevres and acquired by Louis XVI of France around 1790.  It looks so formal and beautiful in my living room, yet is made of tin and is an inexpensive souvenir.  Love it!   

And of course, I was there when the Missoni for Target collection evaporated before my eyes...and now I get great satisfaction at how perfectly their glass votives (that I managed to get in my cart during the shop-tastrophy) compliment my overall look.

Yes, this is my favorite Fall tablescape yet.

Sweets in London

Knowing that I love candy wrappers and vintage-style sweets, a friend insisted that I visit Tom's Deli in the Notting Hill area of London last year.

She was so right - I loved this place!  I stood admiring this very display for a few beats too long and the clerk thought that something was wrong.  Oh no, I assured him.  Everything is perfect. 

Pretty tins of mints.  Chocolate bars.  Candy canes.  I was definitely in the right place.  There is an indoor/outdoor cafe, lunches to-go, wines, cheeses.  A foodie paradise.  Thank you, Bettina, for showing me some British eye candy!

Liquid Nitrogen Milkshake at Flip

Did you know that there has been a surge in a food trend based on molecular gastronomy?

It plays with cooking techniques and pushes the envelope with presentation, food consistency (for example, a liquid sauce served as a solid, like tapioca beads) and the use of chemistry to alter foods safely and creatively.

When I was in Atlanta, I jumped at the chance to have a milkshake made with liquid nitrogen at Richard Blais' Flip Burger Boutique!

I ordered a "Turtle with Candied Pecans" milkshake and in addition to being icy cold, it was delicious!  The ice cream base and caramel swirl are poured into a thick glass.  Then the waitress pours liquid nitrogen into the mixture and it foams and freezes on contact.  So cool!  The whipped cream and frozen pecans add silky and crunchy elements to the dessert.  

Our waitress brought along an extra glass containing a bit of liquid nitrogen in it and we could see the clear contents bubbling and reacting.  She put a paper napkin, long spoon and straw into that glass and a smoky ice fog rose from the glass and was trapped in the folds of the paper napkin when I pulled it out.  It was interesting and beautiful.  And it felt like the whole process was sponsored by Houdini.

Would you ever try something frozen with liquid nitrogen?

Signature Dish

It was absolutely still.  Can you imagine having the opportunity to sit in this Adirondack chair and just take in the view?  It felt like a moose was going to walk out on cue.  If you haven't been to Maine, be sure to put it on your list.

When I travelled to Bar Harbor, Maine with my friend Angie a few years ago, one of our travel goals was to make it to Jordan Pond House, a restaurant that is located in the middle of Acadia National Park.  It has been in operation since the late 1800's and is famous for its popovers.  We made it!  The lawn of the restaurant (shown above) leads down to Jordan Pond and it is the epitome of peaceful. 

You know that I love to travel and that I enjoy researching and planning my itinerary almost as much as the actual trip!   Which brings me to signature dishes.  When you read up on a famous local place/hotel/restaurant, take note of their specialties.  And then order it when you get there!  It's fun to participate in the history of a place and to be able to look back at your trip with an edible memory. 
 
Maine was gorgeous and I had so many great experiences.  But I will always remember "having popovers at Jordan Pond" with Angie, I just know I will.

Still Life

Sometimes the prettiest vignettes aren't meant to be vignettes at all!  I walked by this favorite flower arrangement of mine (I loved it so much, I took it with me when I drove to the cottage!) and noticed that the flowers, table, lamp and book nearby looked gorgeous together!

The book (The Art of Eating by M.F.K. Fisher) was on loan from the library, the flowers (Green Envy zinnias) were from the farmer's market and they "worked" in this room 200 miles from home. 

My point is that design and decorating should ebb and flow just like your life does.  Maybe it is time to clear the accessories from your living room (plants too!) and move things around a bit.  Add a new pillow to pull out the brown in a painting, or add a kiwi green tea set to shift the color focus for a while. 

If I can accidentally make a library book look this good, then I know you can too.  

Cupcake Research

When a friend comes into town, you suddenly have the perfect occasion for cupcakes!  As a blogger and sugar-lover, people assume that I have been to all the sweet spots in town.  For some reason, I hadn't been to Just Baked in Birmingham yet. 

It was on my list of "must try desserts," for sure, so when Corinne was in town from Hawaii and asked where I wanted to go, I immediately suggested that we do some cupcake research.  She was up for the challenge and we spent a lovely hour at Just Baked - sampling and smiling.

We chose to split a luscious Lemon Cupcake (filled with lemon curd!) and a Grumpy Cake, that has pillows of buttercream frosting dipped in a homemade chocolate ganache.  I'm not sure how they arrived at the name, but I assure you, this cupcake left us far from grumpy.

Do you have a "bucket list" for sweets?

College Football

And the Spartans of Michigan State rush onto the field in a whirl of smoke!  It's all theatrics, of course, but it sure made the crowd roar!

• We had bright sun, when the forecast was for rain. 
• We were able to get seats, when I was told that my section was "sold out."
• Our team won, after a disappointing loss last week.

Yes, I'd say it was a pretty great day for college football.  Thank you, Michigan State, I had a wonderful time!   

Football Tailgate

Everything tastes better outside!  This Saturday is dedicated to Spartan football and a two-meal tailgate outdoors on Munn Field.

My niece (20) and nephew (18) go to my alma mater, Michigan State University, and our tradition is to meet them on campus for a family tailgate with my Dad, husband and my brother's family, when possible.

The moon and stars aligned and the day was perfect!  We arrived at 9AM and got a great spot near the stadium to set up our tailgate.  By 9:30, French Toast and breakfast sausages were hot off the grill.  You can get my recipe for Outdoor French Toast here.

It was a bit cold and damp when we arrived and I was thankful for the "instant" MSU fleece scarves that I had made.  I bought a yard and a quarter of fleece (similar to this pattern) and cut it into 3 long strips to make instant scarves.  They looked great and added a necessary touch of green to our warm jackets.  Later when the sun came out (no rain!), I was warm enough to show my spirit in a vintage Spartan sweatshirt and green beaded necklace.

It was a perfect day - full of football, family and french toast.  Do you tailgate?

Scarf Love

I am knitting again.  I usually take a long break over the Spring/Summer (it's too hot!) and then like clockwork, I fall for the rhythmic, relaxing pleasure of knitting once the nights start to get cooler.

My mom is having knee replacement surgery next week and I know that this scarf will help me to relax at the hospital.  Having a little something to keep my hands busy always helps.

I bought gorgeous hand-painted Alpaca yarn at my favorite knit shop, Wool & Honey, in northern Michigan.  It is delicate in both color and feel.  I wanted to let the color variation shine, so I have paired it with a solid stone-colored soft wool blend.  I just love how this scarf is turning out.  I am using a technique that my Mother-in-Law showed me when she taught me to knit.  You make a scarf using 2 different yarns and alternate using them, row by row.  It makes a subtle stripe with no skills required! 

Choose two different yarns (compatible in color and weight).  Start with one of the yarns and knit one row (as wide as you want the scarf) onto circular needles.  Then add the second yarn and knit the next row using just the second yarn.  Notice that now you have one yarn coming off of each side of the scarf.  Continue with the "knit" stitch, row after row, alternating yarns.  For me it was, alpaca, stone, alpaca, stone.

This creates a stripe effect - each row is a different yarn.  When you need to start with a yarn, but the tail is on the other end, simply slide the scarf to the opposing needle, and voila, the tail is there are ready to use.  Super simple!

Have you ever tried this technique? 

Imagination

I want you to use your imagination and decide the story of this boat.  Is it a fisherman's?  A couple on a picnic?  I think this image would make a wonderful book jacket.

I'll tell you why I couldn't resist photographing this perfect scene:

• The colors are layer upon layer of the same few shades - gorgeous and unusual
• The lone boat evokes questions of solitude, escape and relaxation
• Within this landscape there is a lot to look at, even though there is only one distinct object (a boat)  

Yes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Strategic Planning

A few friends and relatives have dropped over this week and this tabletop has sent them into a panic.  Some even questioned my sanity.  Everybody relax, I am not decorating for Christmas.  I am just doing some strategic planning.

I bought these cute wooden figures at our church rummage sale last Spring (for 75 cents!) and I am trying to figure out the best way to utilize them.  They came in 3 small ziploc bags and I finally had the chance this week to empty the bags and see what I have. 

I've imagined using them several different ways, and I think I have settled on making a "village" by gluing them (standing up and facing out) to a flat wooden wreath form.  Then I can put a large 3-wick candle in the middle of the village and it will make a really sweet centerpiece.

I like the idea of children walking around the table to see the different characters and how the "story" develops.  Wish me luck!  And yes, once it is finished, I will tuck it away until December.

Baked Apples

Suddenly, the dessert of choice around here is Baked Apples.  You see, my parents went to the farmer's market last weekend and bought way too many apples.  They didn't buy a bushel, but they certainly have enough to share.

This simple and easy recipe is a wonderful way to get an apple a day. (wink)

Baked Apples

Wash and core 4 baking apples, such as McIntosh.
Place upright in a small "perfect for four apples" baking dish with sides.  In a separate bowl, mix a handful of dark raisins, 4 Tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon - plus a dash of nutmeg and a smidge of bourbon, if you'd like.  Spoon this mixture into the hollow center of each apple.  Pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the pan.  Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until the apples collapse.  Serve as a side dish with pork, or as a healthy alternative to dessert. 

Book Page Wreath

When I feel like I need a little drama in my life, I make something like this!  From the street, my book page wreath practically jumps off the front door. 

I was inspired to make a book page wreath when I saw this collection of them in a shop window at BEE in Atlanta.  It is such a cute store - full of gorgeous decorative elements and beautiful gifts in a natural color palatte.  I saw a lot of woven textures, soft linen and white on white.  Such a pretty shop!

The wreaths have been on my mind ever since and I finally "made it happen" this weekend and I love the result!

The project is easy, but time consuming.  I started with a wooden wreath frame (you can use any frame that will accept hot glue), a college text book, a glue gun (keep ice water on hand in case you touch the hot glue - ouch!) and some Zots adhesive dots. 

• Tear the page from the book
• Roll the page, top to bottom - I used a small piece of tape to keep it rolled
• The "torn" end of the roll will be the decorative outside, the other end should be flattened and glued to the wreath form.  This makes the outside row.
• Add more pages and overlap pages as necessary to fill in holes.
• Then start the interior row.  You'll notice that to make the next row shorter and build the staggered length effect, your roll is about 2 inches too long.
• Place it where you want it.  Let the excess flap into the center, wrap it neatly through the hole and use an adhesive dot to hold it down on the back.  Then come back to the front and use the glue gun to glue the roll in place.  Repeat for this row.
• Start another, shorter interior row and do it exactly the same way.  Continue folding the extra flap through the center of the wreath and use a glue dot it to keep it attached to the back.
• The last interior row is actually made up of rolled pages folded in half.  Glue one side to the wreath and make the roll stay folded with an adhesive dot.
• I fashion a "hanger" out of a length of duct tape folded in half (for strength) to make a "U" loop and then stapled it to the back.  Voila!

I hope you like it and in turn, feel inspired!

Creative Flower Arranging

Did you gasp too?  One good thing about Fall is the change in the quality of light.  This arrangement fairly glowed on my kitchen sink.

What I wanted you to see it that I have used the hydrangea blossom as a "frog."  Do you know about frogs?  A frog is an item made to steady blossoms.  They can be metal with spikes (to spear the stem onto) or an openwork cage that blossoms tuck into for support.  

By placing the hydrangea into the vase first and centering it on the jar, I can tuck roses through the structure of the hydrangea blossom and the roses stay in place.  I think it looks absolutely gorgeous, don't you?

Creative flower arranging doesn't have to be wacky colors, strange vases or playing with scale.  Creativity can simply mean doing something interesting.

Dylan's Candy Bar

My first visit to Dylan's Candy Bar in New York City was a thrill.  There were mannequins in candy dresses and enough candy of every variety to fill a multi-level flagship store in Manhattan.  Dylan Lauren, daughter of design mogul Ralph Lauren, expressed her love of candy in a way we had never seen before and succeeded in overwhelming shoppers with vintage treat, playfully over-sized candy and items branded exclusively to Dylan's Candy Bar.  It is a marketing girl's dream come true - color, flavor and nostalgia all rolled into one.  Everyone can afford a little candy, right?  It's genius.

So I was surprised and intrigued when I heard that a Dylan's Candy Bar had opened at the Grand Traverse Resort in northern Michigan.  I knew that Dylan had opened a handful of shops around the country, but to me it seemed unlikely" that a resort in northern Michigan" would be the short list for potential outlets.

But sure enough, I was there and saw it with my own eyes (see above).  There are actually two locations at the resort, a Dylan's Candy Bar and a separate Dylan's Candy Cafe, a place to relax and eat their homemade ice cream.  Red Velvet Cake ice cream, anyone?

To truly enjoy and appreciate Dylan's Candy Bar, you need to visit her flagship location in New York.  What I saw in Michigan was pretty and a source for her branded items (t-shirts, plates, beach towels) - certainly great for souvenirs from a golf vacation, but it doesn't live up to the design aesthetic and wonder of what I saw in New York, not even close.

But considering that Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park (about an hour away) was named one of the country's most beautiful places by Good Morning America, maybe northern Michigan will be a "sweet spot" for new business after all.

Saving Summer

Photography is my way of saving Summer.  It's how I save everything, really.  I love that I can capture a look, a meal, a view and then months later, just a glance can bring it all back to me.

Before time slips away, flip through your photos from the Summer and pick out a picture with a meaningful view.  Print it in 8 x 10, or make it your screen saver.  Let it be a timeless canvas to remind you of some pretty great days.  

Missoni For Target

I got some!  You know that I am a collector at heart and I just could not pass up a chance to have a piece of the limited edition collection of Missoni for Target.

In a nutshell, Missoni is a family-owned Italian fashion house that is famous for its use of color and zig zag stripes in high end knitwear, such as sweaters and sweater dresses.

I had gone to a Target a few days before the launch to see if any of the locations were setting up and displaying items for sale early, as many did when the John Derian collection was released.  I got a few pieces that way and was hopeful.  No such luck.  I was told by a really sweet salesgirl that 8 o'clock on the 13th was when to come back.  I took her word for it and showed up at my local Target (rumored to be the highest volume Target in the state) at 7:45 AM.

Holy cow!  60 people were in line with me.  I had no idea that anyone would show up - I just thought it would be fun to see the display fully-stocked and as Missoni/Target intended it.  Well that didn't last long.  The clothing section was sold out at 8:08 AM - no joke.

Thankfully, the fever was for the clothing first (naturally, since that is the brand's genesis) so I was able to go to the housewares department and put the pieces that I wantd into my cart.  I love love love what I got, I mean, look how perfectly the sweater-style ceramic platter looks in my family room.  No decorating required!  I'll showcase other pieces this Fall as I use them around the house.

I do, however, feel disappointed that others didn't have the same chance to shop the collection.  I saw many women who were grabbing clothing indiscriminately to shove in their cart and sell on eBay later.  Despicable.

But I have hope.  I hope that Target will place a re-order for the collection and that stores will eventually get replenished (even if it takes months) so all shoppers at all times of the day can have a little piece of this cute and (historically popular!) collection.  And I also hope that Target will impose a 20-item limit at checkout for special collections.  I know that the heart of retail is sales, but I believe that the Target customer has to be given a fighting chance against the resale vultures.

I want everyone to have delight.

Drum Talk

Just before classes started on campus, I visited my alma mater, Michigan State University to have a reunion dinner with 3 English-major buddies.  While we drove campus after dinner, I was able to sneak a peek into Demonstration Hall and the marching band's closet. 

Students were moving in and out of here like ants...checking their uniforms and replacing their instruments.  I managed to get a picture and I like to think of it as "anticipation" - all of those uniforms and instruments just waiting to rile up the crowd.

It was a beautiful night and as we walked from this building, we were lured by the drum beat of the MSU drum line practicing!  What fun to hear them playing live.  I don't know what it is about drums, but I get swept away by the speed and precision.  When they finished, I let out a big "Whoop!" in appreciation and heard silence.  Apparently it is not proper protocol to cheer during a practice, but it was magnificent and I couldn't help myself.  I hope that the students secretly appreciated it. 

I've included a 2 minute video link (below) of the drum line as it appears for the public on the MSU website.  Do drums make you crazy too?

Preserving Summer

Let me start off with this: These are real peaches.  Gorgeous, glistening, perfectly ripe peaches.  If this photo doesn't say "August," then I don't know what would!

You have noticed my foray into preserving Summer and I think this will be my biggest success.  I decided to try the freezing method, as I think that will keep the fruit closest to right off the tree fresh.

First I washed and sterilized jars in the dishwasher and simmered the lids in a pan of water.  Then I cut an "X" in the bottom of each peach and blanched it in hot water, then scooped it out of the hot water and into an ice bath to prevent further cooking.  This method helps the skin to release and you can see the results above - perfectly peeled peaches. 

I then sliced the peaches into a large bowl and sprinkled them with Fruit Fresh, to preserve their color and prevent browning.

I dissolved 1 cup of sugar in 2 cups water and brought it to a boil.  Pack the peach slices into the jars (leaving about an inch for expansion in freezer) and pour syrup over them (make sure there is still an inch of room for expansion).  Jiggle contents with a wooden skewer or narrow tool, to release any trapped air bubbles.

Wipe rim clean.  Place clean lid onto jar.  Screw band on tight and freeze!