tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83538348256828405682024-03-13T17:04:45.878-04:00Heritage Current Co.Studio updates, diy projects, design finds, everyday inspiration and more, combining my love of vintage and the past with current trendsHeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.comBlogger502125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-27722830315672098152016-06-16T17:06:00.003-04:002016-06-16T17:07:58.732-04:00Apricot Buttermilk Coffee Cake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkUdE8LcF40/V2MRiOoZSRI/AAAAAAAACiA/lMNsQBOUQ7EDwk9tTD3yfnNeb5mWebYlQCLcB/s1600/Apricot%2BCoffee%2BCake%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkUdE8LcF40/V2MRiOoZSRI/AAAAAAAACiA/lMNsQBOUQ7EDwk9tTD3yfnNeb5mWebYlQCLcB/s400/Apricot%2BCoffee%2BCake%2BSm.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another week of pregnancy gone by, another cake. At least we finally got around to getting everything set up for the baby's arrival? Easier said than done with a hyperactive toddler around (especially one who very much wants to make sure he's getting lots of attention before he has to compete for Mom and Dad).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had some apricots sitting around that my kid rejected. I can't blame him - I swear they always look better than they taste. They were almost inedibly sour, but the magic of apricots is that they turn into pure sweetness when baked. So I really had no choice but to make a cake, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sprouted Kitchen's "Buttermilk Berry Crumb Cake" popped into my head. I'd meant to make it last summer but never got around to it (also, berries never last long in this house). So I adapted it to fit what I had around and wanted to use, and came up with a not-too-sweet, nubbly-textured cake perfect for accompanying a cup of tea or coffee, or being served as a breakfast treat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will note that you definitely *can* taste the banana in this. I think next time I'd either replace it with an actual fat (probably flavorless oil, or maybe yogurt?) OR I'd accent the banana flavor more by leaving out the fruit, and subbing in either a caramel ribbon, chocolate chips, or perhaps just a few handfuls of chopped pecans. The original recipe never specified pan size. I didn't have a springform pan and so I used a 10" pan, which I thought made this just the right thickness, but use whatever you like (just adjust cooking time accordingly). Just make sure if the pan is smaller that it's fairly deep (ie thicker than regular 8" or 9" cake pans).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Apricot Buttermilk Coffee Cake:</div>
<br />
Cake:<br />
3/4 cup buttermilk<br />
1 1/2 medium ripe bananas, mashed<br />
1/4 cup / half stick unsalted butter, melted<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1 cup whole wheat flour<br />
1 cup unbleached all purpose flour<br />
1/2 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />
dashes of cinnamon and ginger, to taste<br />
2 cups diced fresh apricots<br />
<br />
Crumble:<br />
1/4 cup / half stick unsalted butter, softened<br />
1/3 cup old-fashioned or quick oats<br />
1/4 cup spelt or other whole-grain flour<br />
1/4 c. almond meal<br />
1/2 cup sugar (white or brown)<br />
1/4 cup pecans<br />
ground mace (several dashes)<br />
pinch of salt<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 10" deep pan with parchment or foil, and grease the bottom and sides.<br />
<br />
In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, mashed bananas, and melted butter. Add the eggs one at a time, then add in the vanilla.<br />
<br />
In another bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Add one cup of the apricots to the dry mix and toss to coat. Add the wet ingredients to the dry, and stir to combine in as few strokes as possible. Be careful not to overmix!<br />
<br />
In another bowl, make the crumble. Mix the softened butter, oats, flours, sugar, spices, and salt together. I found it easiest to rub everything together with my fingers until pea-sized clumps formed.<br />
<br />
Pour the batter into the pan and scatter the rest of the apricot pieces evenly on top. Sprinkle the crumble over all. Bake on the middle rack for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Try not to overbake as the cake is low in fat and may come out very dry if you do. Cool on a wire rack, serve warm or at room-temp.<br />
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-8297683437304325732016-06-07T19:59:00.001-04:002016-06-07T19:59:46.826-04:00Shop Update<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/384693136/seek-wander-explore-8-x-10-printable" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raVzFQVjF8w/V1dasjRSC6I/AAAAAAAACho/09yuiJNOtpkoA8hrcwmumQsXLaMHGjJZgCLcB/s320/SWEScript8x10BlackHCCSm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just wanted to share some of my newest printables with you! I've recently added these to my Etsy store. Click on the pics to go to specific listing if you're interested.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/384693136/seek-wander-explore-8-x-10-printable" target="_blank">This first piece</a> was inspired by memories of summer road trips and travels abroad. Is there anything better than exploring a new place or foreign clime for the first time? This is available in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HeritageCurrentCo?ref=hdr_shop_menu&search_query=seek+wander+explore" target="_blank">several different font styles</a>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/340652626/mama-and-baby-bear-printable-nursery-art" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j_QVl0D-Zpg/V1dasxZtQUI/AAAAAAAAChk/OWKEERhpPvsV8M-OBN4QOg3K-ZmcSiRPACLcB/s320/UrsaBears8x10BlackHCCSm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is actually a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/340652626/mama-and-baby-bear-printable-nursery-art" target="_blank">printable that I revamped</a>. I made the outlines around Ursa Major and Ursa Minor - the mama bear and baby bear constellations - more angular, so they'd look more geometric and fresh. For more colors, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HeritageCurrentCo?ref=hdr_shop_menu&search_query=ursa" target="_blank">see here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122682711/love-heart-printable-8-x-10-red-and" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIiEGiK9aPI/V1dasfjhnfI/AAAAAAAAChc/8YFfYKzmg3c257dz3adccMSSmyA2WijwgCKgB/s320/LoveVertWatercolorRed8x10HCCSm.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Simple and classic. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122682711/love-heart-printable-8-x-10-red-and" target="_blank">L-O-V-E</a> with the "O" replaced by a heart, all in script on a crimson watercolor background. Again,<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HeritageCurrentCo?ref=hdr_shop_menu&search_query=watercolor+love" target="_blank"> multiple colors available</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/156275271/nautical-ship-art-ship-captains-steering" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZafGmCsWR5Q/V1das33IDAI/AAAAAAAAChg/JmqzGmJ5ZAIurenpQAVR6Vl-IX7bGmceACKgB/s320/ShipsWheelVintageNavy8x10SmWm.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next three pics are also updated pieces. For the s<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/156275271/nautical-ship-art-ship-captains-steering" target="_blank">hip captain's wheel</a> shown here and anchor & stars featured below, I added halftone drop shadow details and vintage texture on top. Summer always makes me want to decorate in nautical themes and watery blues!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/399106649/anchor-and-stars-nautical-printable-8-x" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tJWGR9S67-I/V1dasXJ7z8I/AAAAAAAAChU/2tDo1MyynjcP47UZi2bHoy3HIKmG3qX8wCKgB/s320/AnchorVintageNavy8x10SmWm.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/399106649/anchor-and-stars-nautical-printable-8-x" target="_blank">anchor & stars</a> is one of the oldest Americana symbols. Also available in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/156276395/anchor-and-stars-nautical-printable-8-x" target="_blank">white on navy blue</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164474622/custom-wedding-gift-custom-engagement" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp1kv5QdquQ/V1dasah-WHI/AAAAAAAAChY/Xlp2zYAvyMgVREHJIQ3OaDDPdjBv8Gb_wCKgB/s320/FamilyEstCustomBlack8x10SmWm.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Inspired by wedding season, I created <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164474622/custom-wedding-gift-custom-engagement" target="_blank">this piece</a> to commemorate the blending of two people into one family. The tree is a mighty oak, symbolizing fidelity, loyalty, and strength. Also available in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HeritageCurrentCo/items?search_query=established" target="_blank">non-script fonts</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can customize any printable in my store to match your color scheme, just ask! I'm also currently offering prints again, just select <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/398189971/custom-8-x-10-print-from-any-printable" target="_blank">one of</a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/398191229/custom-11-x-14-print-from-any-printable" target="_blank">these listings</a> to turn any printable into an actual print!</div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-17561704849308362212016-06-01T20:24:00.000-04:002016-06-01T20:24:17.664-04:00DIY Spring/Summer Tulip Wreath<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdpUaVCi4vU/V096vEfrilI/AAAAAAAACg8/oc1UyoTyg0kF7EvxokeCgthLgeUGvVc4ACLcB/s1600/Wreath1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdpUaVCi4vU/V096vEfrilI/AAAAAAAACg8/oc1UyoTyg0kF7EvxokeCgthLgeUGvVc4ACLcB/s400/Wreath1.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just wanted to pop in and share this easy DIY tulip wreath I made using faux blooms from Michael's! I used 8 pink tulips and 5 white ones.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First, select a wreath form. I used a bent wire one for mine but grapevine would work too. Next, cut your flower stems to about 6 - 8 inches and strip off the leaves. This gives you enough to bend around the form to support the bloom, without having tons of extra that will bulk up the form. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Arrange and stagger your stems around the form, wrapping with florist or other strong wire as you go. I finished with some white grosgrain ribbon wrapped so as to hide the wire, then glued at the beginning and end with Tacky Glue to secure it (the glued parts are hidden behind the bow at the bottom).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTuoAoxE5Os/V096vKM4YJI/AAAAAAAAChA/AcsOYXf3BeAe_rvT7FsdimNW55U4OFCtACKgB/s1600/WreathII.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTuoAoxE5Os/V096vKM4YJI/AAAAAAAAChA/AcsOYXf3BeAe_rvT7FsdimNW55U4OFCtACKgB/s400/WreathII.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I used the discarded leaves to make a bow, bending them in half to form the loops (3 per side). I cinched the loop ends together and wrapped a thinner strip cut from a leaf around them to gather them together. I secured the middle strip with more glue, then glued two more thinner strips with notches cut into the ends hanging down as the bow's "ribbon" ends. When the bow was dried, I glued it to the wreath frame.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's it! Simple and easy. You could substitute whatever flowers you like - peonies, roses, forsythia, wisteria, or poppies (one of my other favorite flowers!). Use lots of blooms or just a few, all one color or a mix of everything - the possibilities are endless!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-30038354229248963652016-05-21T16:26:00.000-04:002016-05-21T16:26:43.910-04:00Rhubarb Breakfast Cake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RwmiLR71UuM/Vz95JffDKpI/AAAAAAAACgg/kH6vk-cGypg7Ct8OejkM0r9y1YfVjuqUwCLcB/s1600/RhubarbCake3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RwmiLR71UuM/Vz95JffDKpI/AAAAAAAACgg/kH6vk-cGypg7Ct8OejkM0r9y1YfVjuqUwCLcB/s400/RhubarbCake3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Since I'm still nesting (aka baking) in anticipation of Baby No. 2, here's another rhubarb recipe for the archives! While this is technically a spin on Elizabeth Bard's "Rhubarb Yogurt Cake", I've taken to calling my version "Rhubarb Breakfast Cake". It has a decent amount of sugar and uses butter instead of oil, BUT it has whole grain flour and yogurt in it as well. So, I'm running with the healthy-ish aspects and encouraging you to serve this for breakfast or brunch (although it's also fantastic for teatime or an afternoon snack). I've made it three times in the past 2 weeks, both for us and as a hostess gift, so (imho) it's a winner. The nubbly-ness of the whole grains and the tartness of the rhubarb are irresistible.<br />
<br />
Hints:<br />
<br />
1 c. plain yogurt, stirred to combine if any whey has separated (full-fat recommended)<br />
1 c. granulated sugar<br />
1 pinch of good sea salt (I'm currently into Sea Change, harvested here in Maine)<br />
1 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
1/2 c. butter, melted and cooled to room temp<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 1/2 c. whole grain flour - I really like using spelt or a mix of spelt and whole wheat<br />
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon to taste<br />
1 c. rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch pieces and tossed with a good sprinkle of sugar to macerate for 10 mins.<br />
<br />
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter or oil a 10" round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper or foil.<br />
<br />
2. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, salt, and extract and whisk until well-mixed. Add in the butter, mix well. Add in the eggs one at a time, stirring to combine well after each addition.<br />
<br />
3. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in a smaller bowl or on a sheet of parchment or waxed paper. Add to the batter, stirring just til combined (be careful not to overmix).<br />
<br />
4. Pour into cake pan, and evenly sprinkle the rhubarb mixture on top (it will sink to the bottom as it bakes, and that's okay!).<br />
<br />
5. Bake for about 35 - 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean (mine have been done after 40 minutes).<br />
<br />
6. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out and finish cooling on a wire rack. This part can be a bit tricky since it's a large cake. Just go slowly!<br />
<br />
<br />
7. Because of the moist rhubarb, I preferred to store slices in a Tupperware in the fridge (or cover the top with foil and refrigerate), rather than risking spoilage at room temperature.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-58586693255734479312016-05-12T16:24:00.002-04:002016-05-12T16:25:03.282-04:00Angel Food Cake with Lemon Yogurt Cream and Fruit Recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyzcENXQjFo/VzTh0BSYShI/AAAAAAAACgE/l8nCqkTLEVkRAQ4WARtTZZqz79gShJnbwCLcB/s1600/Angel%2BFood%2BCake%2Bwith%2BLemon%2BYogurt%2BCream%2Band%2BFruit%2BHeritageCurrentCo%2BRecipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyzcENXQjFo/VzTh0BSYShI/AAAAAAAACgE/l8nCqkTLEVkRAQ4WARtTZZqz79gShJnbwCLcB/s400/Angel%2BFood%2BCake%2Bwith%2BLemon%2BYogurt%2BCream%2Band%2BFruit%2BHeritageCurrentCo%2BRecipe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Inspired by Martha Stewart's <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342230/rhubarb-tart-with-lemon-yogurt-mousse" target="_blank">Rhubarb Tart with Lemon-Yogurt Mousse</a>, I whipped up a faster, easier version for Mother's Day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The
Greek yogurt adds a really nice tang to this and, combined with the bright lemon notes, reins in the sweetness of the angel food cake without taking away from the decadence of the cream. Everyone was raving about the combination! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hints:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 boxed angel food cake mix</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 lemon, preferably organic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 container CoolWhip or 1 pint heavy/whipping cream</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 container Greek yogurt (I used Fage)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
confectioner's sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
fruit of choice</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Make your angel food cake, following the directions on the box. Angel food cake is one of the few things I will *NOT* make from scratch. I tried once and the whole thing plopped out of the pan like a big, old, wet fart shortly after I turned it upside down, and I laughed so hard I cried for the next five minutes. (A shocker for my family members, who assumed I'd be really upset since it was a birthday cake for someone.) The box mix is just easier, foolproof, and delicious! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once your cake is cool and you're almost ready to serve dessert, get out your CoolWhip or whip your cream. Combine in a large bowl with the yogurt. I used about a 2 parts CoolWhip/cream to 1 part Greek yogurt ratio, but feel free to change this to suit your own taste. Wash your lemon and zest about half of it into the bowl (you won't need the juice). Add a few tablespoons of confectioner's sugar. I used about 2 I think, but again, use as much or as little as you like. Whisk together til thoroughly combined and set aside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Prep your fruit. Here I used fresh raspberries, but on Mother's Day I stewed strawberries and rhubarb together (adding about a 1/4 c. sugar and some lemon juice) until softened and let the mixture cool slightly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slice your cake, top with as much of the lemon yogurt cream as you like, and spoon your fruit on top. That's it! Simple yet delicious.</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-22273807345040680682016-05-09T17:19:00.001-04:002016-05-09T17:19:38.973-04:00Tulips and Cherry Blossoms<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J8fwY95Fe8o/VzD-X4qkxBI/AAAAAAAACfg/046K53WfKgUh-m-AnCQRBRGdFWYKIKu5wCKgB/s1600/PinkTulipSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J8fwY95Fe8o/VzD-X4qkxBI/AAAAAAAACfg/046K53WfKgUh-m-AnCQRBRGdFWYKIKu5wCKgB/s400/PinkTulipSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zaWUzn0fb5I/VzD-X2STj3I/AAAAAAAACfk/1zfF9ZnjLgk5EAwBeN85qjDCYRKx1i8mACKgB/s1600/CherryBlossoms1Sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zaWUzn0fb5I/VzD-X2STj3I/AAAAAAAACfk/1zfF9ZnjLgk5EAwBeN85qjDCYRKx1i8mACKgB/s400/CherryBlossoms1Sm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQnuS5u6yqA/VzD-YBKiYzI/AAAAAAAACfo/j8MAMNijUoQf2mfJlKss6djgaZ_gqKk9QCKgB/s1600/CherryBlossomsIISm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQnuS5u6yqA/VzD-YBKiYzI/AAAAAAAACfo/j8MAMNijUoQf2mfJlKss6djgaZ_gqKk9QCKgB/s400/CherryBlossomsIISm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Everything's finally blossoming around here, couldn't resist posting some tulip and cherry blossom snaps! I hope you enjoy them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hope all my fellow mamas out there had a wonderful Mother's Day as well!</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-14573947067950832012016-05-02T16:15:00.002-04:002016-05-02T16:15:54.598-04:00Free Printable Mother's Day Card!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fa3i3jziltY/Vye0aeKhJBI/AAAAAAAACfI/sW-vDIO7Vs0KDKpr7asl9g_JLD8Eki1eQCLcB/s1600/CantBeBeetMomSmWm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fa3i3jziltY/Vye0aeKhJBI/AAAAAAAACfI/sW-vDIO7Vs0KDKpr7asl9g_JLD8Eki1eQCLcB/s400/CantBeBeetMomSmWm.jpg" width="266" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just popping in to share this free, printable Mother's Day card I made. It says "Mom, you sure can't be 'beet'!" in white over a drawing of a freshly-harvested beetroot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To print, simply download <a href="http://sabercathost.com/2AHo/MomCard.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> (don't worry, it won't have the watermark on it), print it out sized at 8 x 10 - make sure you don't scale it, then cut it out (I made the extra paper area a light gray so you can see where to cut), fold in half, and customize inside with your own message of appreciation for your mom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you like it, please share and send it this post to your friends and fam!</div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-55325513788714511262016-04-27T16:51:00.000-04:002016-04-27T16:51:07.510-04:00Brand New Shabby Chic Swallow Pendants in the Shop!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/278124962/shabby-chic-swallow-bird-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/278124962/shabby-chic-swallow-bird-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_1" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLPdB1TKHBg/VyElWjdALdI/AAAAAAAACbk/f2lcIGqh3BAGD-nR2IVGPZuOMpXJQuJqgCLcB/s400/20160422_164530.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just wanted you guys to be the first to know that I've added these brand new tiny "shabby chic" swallow necklaces to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/278124962/shabby-chic-swallow-bird-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">my Etsy store</a>! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Swallows are one of my favorite birds. Besides how gracefully they swoop and dance through the air, they're also symbols of everlasting love, hope, and triumph.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/278124962/shabby-chic-swallow-bird-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">simple yet sweet bird necklaces</a> would make a great gift for your mom for Mother's Day or just for yourself, and I'm offering free U.S. shipping on them!</div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-9060677627427978182016-04-12T23:21:00.003-04:002016-04-12T23:21:59.836-04:00Strawberry Rhubarb Shortcakes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7l6UfAJLhK0/Vw21AResSxI/AAAAAAAACbI/VcjFco7oE2MSdXzdA0Huja_sZ2nrMtWagCLcB/s1600/Rhubarb%2BStrawberry%2BShortcake%2BRecipe%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7l6UfAJLhK0/Vw21AResSxI/AAAAAAAACbI/VcjFco7oE2MSdXzdA0Huja_sZ2nrMtWagCLcB/s400/Rhubarb%2BStrawberry%2BShortcake%2BRecipe%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Apparently my current version of "nesting" in anticipation of baby #2 mostly involves baking. I think at least some of this is that as the mom of a toddler, anything I spend hours cleaning or organizing is going to quickly get undone or destroyed by my 3 ft tall whirling dervish in about two seconds. But baked goods? Those can be put in a tin and stored safely on top of the fridge, where he can longingly look up at them but not pull them down and demolish them. Yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's finally rhubarb season again, one of my favorite fruit seasons! My husband has strict instructions to buy at least a pound of it every time he sees it at the store, no matter how much is already in said fridge or freezer. I want it ALL before it disappears!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This week, I decided to pair the delicate pink stalks with their classic BFF strawberries and English cream scones to make a shortcake-style dessert or snack. Sometimes the simplest things are the best, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I threw in a little whole wheat flour because I'm *that* kind of mom, and was pleasantly surprised to find that the little bit of whole grain actually made these even more tender than usual. Especially the re-rolled ones! I also followed <a href="http://joythebaker.com/" target="_blank">Joy the Baker's</a> advice to grate the butter instead of cutting it in with knives or a pastry cutter. So much easier and it works like a charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh, and apologies for the less-than-stellar photo. Toddler naptime can be very short some days (I blame a growth spurt) and the sky was cloudy and grey during the only window I had to snap this shot. I'm trying to let go of perfection all the time and just go with things.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hints:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rhubarb "Jam":</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wash 1 pound of rhubarb, cut into 1/2" or 1 cm pieces. Place in medium-sized pot, add a couple of splashes of water or the juice of 1/2 a lemon and cook over medium/medium-low heat until it starts to break down. Add sugar to taste (I like mine less sweet, so I use only about 1/4 c. or 50 g of sugar). Continue to cook, turning down to low if it starts to boil too hard or you're worried about it scorching on the bottom, until rhubarb is completely broken down and has thickened. Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract if you're a fan. Any leftover rhubarb is excellent stirred into plain Greek yogurt or oatmeal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Macerated Strawberries:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wash and thinly slice ripe strawberries. Mix with a little lemon juice or vanilla extract and a sprinkle of sugar and stir well. Let sit while you make your scones. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cream Scones (adapted from Smitten Kitchen) </div>
<br />1 1/2 cups (210 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour<br />
1/2 cup (70 grams) whole wheat flour<br />
1 tablespoon (15 grams) baking powder<br />
3 tablespoons (40 grams) sugar<br />
1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) fine sea or table salt<br />
5 tablespoons (70 grams) chilled, unsalted butter, grated<br />1 cup (235 ml) heavy cream<br />
<br />
1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 425°F.<br />
<br />
2. Mix together flour, baking powder, sugar and salt in a large bowl.<br />
<br />
3. Stir in grated butter until evenly distributed.<br />
<br />
4. Stir in the heavy cream until a dough begins to form, about 30 seconds.<br />
<br />
5. Transfer the dough and all the leftover dry and flour-y bits at the bottom of the bowl to a clean countertop. Knead
the dough by hand just until it comes together and forms a rough, sticky ball, about 5
to 10 seconds.<br />
<br />
6. Pat the dough into a 3/4 thick square or rectangle on a lightly
floured surface. For extra flaky layers, either fold into thirds (like a sheet of paper before you put it in a business envelope) or fold in half onto itself 2 - 3 times, patting the dough down into the correct thickness again after. Use a biscuit cutter to form scones, re-rolling scraps until dough is used up (although I only tend to re-roll twice).<br />
<br />
6. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake until the tops are light brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. Place on a wire rack and let cool for at
least 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.<br />
<br />
To Assemble:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slice scones/shortcakes in half, slather with butter and rhubarb mixture, top with macerated strawberries. Eat at once. I won't judge you if you don't share, promise.</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-80721895007396688312016-04-07T11:58:00.002-04:002016-04-07T11:58:34.257-04:00Easter Knitting Projects<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4wEFuXHbxL8/VwZ-0G7zT8I/AAAAAAAACa0/uf7taQVxZuMQPWaxE1xEwTJRT8nYRoT_w/s1600/Knit%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BArne%2BCarlos%2BJulie%2BWilliams%2BKnitting%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4wEFuXHbxL8/VwZ-0G7zT8I/AAAAAAAACa0/uf7taQVxZuMQPWaxE1xEwTJRT8nYRoT_w/s400/Knit%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BArne%2BCarlos%2BJulie%2BWilliams%2BKnitting%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="398" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Any fellow knitters out there? I started knitting when I was in middle school, completing a few horribly mistake-ridden garter stitch items before dropping the hobby for well over a decade. I've picked it up again in the last few years, spurred on by photos of cute baby items on Ravelry, and now I have a giant stash of yarn hidden under the bed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even though I've hit that stage of pregnancy where I'm just utterly, completely *exhausted*, I still managed to surprise myself and complete a few Easter-themed pieces. (Next on the docket: baby sweaters before it gets too warm to knit much!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The eggs in the top row above are an <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/24109-paskeegg-easter-balls-and-easter-eggs" target="_blank">Arne & Carlos pattern</a>, from their book "Easter Knits". I rented it from my local library, and followed the flower patterns exactly as written while modifying their chick chart for a ball into one for an egg instead. I loved this pattern, and the shape of the eggs! I used LionBrand Bon Bon yarns, so I wouldn't have a ton of regular fingering weight skeins sitting around (I'm attempting to use up my stash these days).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The eggs in the bottom row are a Julie Williams pattern. This pattern is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/easter-eggs-32" target="_blank">available for free online</a>, but I wasn't as pleased with the results. I noticed first and foremost that the eggs featured in her pictures don't always conform to the charts. They seem to have rows added. I added some rows for at least the gingham one here as she did (I forget if I added ones to the striped egg.) I also modified the top shaping a bit, to be more egg-like. I knit them in the round as well, because I avoid seaming like the plague (one of these days I'll get over that and knit my first adult sweater!).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I still think they came out a bit too fat and not very egg-shaped. Oh well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFrbvtxA8zg/VwZ-z5Ubv_I/AAAAAAAACaw/1XZHgGIXphkLEXAbhdIUgMf7WUXxNRjXg/s1600/Knit%2BEaster%2BRabbit%2BKnitting%2BRachel%2BBorrello%2BRavelry%2BFree%2BPattern%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFrbvtxA8zg/VwZ-z5Ubv_I/AAAAAAAACaw/1XZHgGIXphkLEXAbhdIUgMf7WUXxNRjXg/s400/Knit%2BEaster%2BRabbit%2BKnitting%2BRachel%2BBorrello%2BRavelry%2BFree%2BPattern%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="398" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You need a rabbit to go with your Easter eggs, right? This bunny is a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dutch-rabbits" target="_blank">Rachel Borello pattern</a>. I think it turned out okay. The head seems a bit huge and the face isn't as rabbit-like as I wanted, although I did use embroidery thread for eyes instead of the safety ones suggested. Looking at people's project pages, it seems like I wasn't the only one whose bunny didn't come out very close to the original though. I think she used a fish eye lens or something like that to make hers resemble a rabbit more.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was also very fiddly to knit - each element is a separate piece that required stuffing and/or seaming. I don't think I'd attempt this again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgqXAwRWg2Y/VwZ-zI1zNrI/AAAAAAAACas/DFWbh1AghG8Gz5V5FXR4kNtE0hYsUyyww/s1600/Knit%2BEaster%2BChick%2BFree%2BPattern%2BRavelry%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgqXAwRWg2Y/VwZ-zI1zNrI/AAAAAAAACas/DFWbh1AghG8Gz5V5FXR4kNtE0hYsUyyww/s400/Knit%2BEaster%2BChick%2BFree%2BPattern%2BRavelry%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="398" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This chick is a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/easter-chicks-4" target="_blank">free pattern from Nicky Fijalkowska</a>. I was originally going to make one of the above Easter eggs as two halves, and hide it inside. However, once I started knitting one this way, I realized each half wouldn't have enough structure to maintain an egg shape. So this little guy is homeless, but still cute! I like how the wings curl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are you knitting lately?</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-69206092861013083492016-03-28T20:46:00.002-04:002016-03-28T20:46:30.002-04:00My DIY Version of Purl Soho's Heirloom Wool Easter Eggs<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amO15EEfxUI/Vvmjn0baTDI/AAAAAAAACaI/uSa2OUx_sw8bs8alEUURGDzhtrnOPqzAQ/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BAll%2BTogether%2BClose%2BUp%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amO15EEfxUI/Vvmjn0baTDI/AAAAAAAACaI/uSa2OUx_sw8bs8alEUURGDzhtrnOPqzAQ/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BAll%2BTogether%2BClose%2BUp%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Did you guys see <a href="http://www.purlsoho.com/create/2016/03/03/heirloom-wool-easter-eggs/" target="_blank">Purl Soho's Heirloom Wool Easter eggs</a> pattern? I thought they were nice, but I wanted a thinner version with more colorful flowers. So I decided to wing it and DIY my own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikUAOg9V2FI/VvmjoS_-rXI/AAAAAAAACaY/4t_5HIw_OaM6deOs6vPZrA3NZ5WUiBFkg/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BEgg%2BShaped%2BTemplate%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikUAOg9V2FI/VvmjoS_-rXI/AAAAAAAACaY/4t_5HIw_OaM6deOs6vPZrA3NZ5WUiBFkg/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BEgg%2BShaped%2BTemplate%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I started by making a template out of paper. (Save this image, print out at whatever size you like, and use as a template for yours if you like it.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vizIWapXO1s/VvmjoFQeiaI/AAAAAAAACaU/t31mlyLst_8Ux46uCti6fD5HeU_yh7qhQ/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BClose%2BUp%2BSewn%2BWhite%2BEgg%2BShapes%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vizIWapXO1s/VvmjoFQeiaI/AAAAAAAACaU/t31mlyLst_8Ux46uCti6fD5HeU_yh7qhQ/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BClose%2BUp%2BSewn%2BWhite%2BEgg%2BShapes%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I then cut twice the number of egg shapes as eggs I wanted to make out of plain white felt. You can use the good wool stuff, but I honestly prefer the polyester - it won't get eaten by moths or carpet beetles over time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then cut another template out of paper, but take about 3 - 4 mm off all around. Use this template to cut smaller egg shapes out of thin quilt batting, one per egg.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then you can either hand-stitch these using blanket stitch, or use a sewing machine to sandwich the batting in between two egg felt shapes and stitch all the way around. If you look closely, I tried out a few different stitches for mine - a small zigzag, a wider zigzag, and some plain stitching. Make sure you catch the back piece of felt as you sew. You can use a walking foot if you have one, but I did these without it - I just went slowly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't worry about it being perfect though! I had some spots where the back piece of felt stuck out from behind the top piece. Instead of redoing it, I either trimmed it with scissors or just put flowers over this spot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54DAeWikf60/VvmjnUlQUYI/AAAAAAAACaA/ZxSB4WlUthYpFGw39h59QMLvZBpoRRZ2g/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BPansy%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54DAeWikf60/VvmjnUlQUYI/AAAAAAAACaA/ZxSB4WlUthYpFGw39h59QMLvZBpoRRZ2g/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BPansy%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now for the decorating! I decided to make loops out of thin blue ribbon for hanging. I stitched them on the back side of the egg. (In retrospect, I should've sandwiched them in when I sewed the eggs, but oh well!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then I cut petals out of different colors of felt. Many flowers can be broken down into simple shapes. This pansy is just two bigger ovals, two medium ones, and a really big one that's almost pinched into a triangle at the top out of purple felt. Then cut two small ovals and another medium oval out of a contrasting color (here I used yellow). Then layer your petals as shown and stitch on using embroidery thread.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsx48VrP2cw/VvmjnRH8VSI/AAAAAAAACZ8/HLAHm8IqoA8UNhzOrHShyD6hv2AgH_Xig/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BPink%2BFlowers%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsx48VrP2cw/VvmjnRH8VSI/AAAAAAAACZ8/HLAHm8IqoA8UNhzOrHShyD6hv2AgH_Xig/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BPink%2BFlowers%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For this one, I drew a five-petaled flower, cut it out, and then turned it over so the pencil lines wouldn't show. If drawing isn't your thing, just do a basic five-pointed star then nip a bit more out of the petals near the center to give them a better shape. I layered a smaller flower over a larger one for the middle bloom. These were stitched on using pale pink embroidery thread and tiny stitches.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckvp0oR3DKs/VvmjnenyW2I/AAAAAAAACaE/vUTiCh_GW3Ay00HYnhEjUvGn78XMxqduQ/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BViolets%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckvp0oR3DKs/VvmjnenyW2I/AAAAAAAACaE/vUTiCh_GW3Ay00HYnhEjUvGn78XMxqduQ/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BClose%2BUp%2BViolets%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Violets are one of my favorite spring flowers! These are just two smaller ovals on top with three larger ovals on the bottom. I stitched the petals on with purple thread, then added bright yellow centers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0JxtVAnVylk/Vvmjn0pc3lI/AAAAAAAACaM/-sd2Z-6Y_5chBLVeAjAnobz-rJqtdJBbw/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BClose%2BUp%2BEmbroidery%2BHyacinths%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0JxtVAnVylk/Vvmjn0pc3lI/AAAAAAAACaM/-sd2Z-6Y_5chBLVeAjAnobz-rJqtdJBbw/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BClose%2BUp%2BEmbroidery%2BHyacinths%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I got a little fancier with this one. It's just two purple cones and a larger pink oval for the pink hyacinth and purple grape hyacinths. I stitched little flower shapes in pink for the middle part, then just did lots of French knots (do a Google image search to find step-by-step tutorials!) for the side flowers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7pXmTHcSt1w/Vvmjn-s_OOI/AAAAAAAACaQ/PfZQ_XDy4IM4EfGdFr9o5TlqXM1gOdOJg/s1600/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BAll%2BTogether%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7pXmTHcSt1w/Vvmjn-s_OOI/AAAAAAAACaQ/PfZQ_XDy4IM4EfGdFr9o5TlqXM1gOdOJg/s400/Felt%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BAll%2BTogether%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here you can see the other bluebells, abstract round flowers, and orange-centered daffodils one I made. Just play around with colors and your favorite blooms to customize these!</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-87714619170820330062016-03-18T15:23:00.000-04:002016-03-18T15:23:42.411-04:00Spring's First Crocuses<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S1qmhfj_p9U/VuxUVH2kmiI/AAAAAAAACZc/Uo89BSjYnBAuzTuCIogTzTQOQNfCIy7nw/s1600/Pale%2BPurple%2BCrocuses%2BSpring%2BFlowers%2BHeritageCurrentCo..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S1qmhfj_p9U/VuxUVH2kmiI/AAAAAAAACZc/Uo89BSjYnBAuzTuCIogTzTQOQNfCIy7nw/s400/Pale%2BPurple%2BCrocuses%2BSpring%2BFlowers%2BHeritageCurrentCo..jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My little guy and I like to go flower-watching while on our daily ramble. We'd been watching these crocuses for a few days, and finally caught them opening up one sunny morning this past week! The orange centers are so bright they almost look fake, and how beautiful are those subtle purple stripes inside? I'm definitely partial to the purple variety.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NCYXRBIGSE8/VuxUrmz5CBI/AAAAAAAACZk/Z83UtXDfCvsAcq4tC9eRMQ5a8KPAj4iNw/s1600/Crocuses%2BLittle%2BFeet%2BHeritageCurrentCo..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NCYXRBIGSE8/VuxUrmz5CBI/AAAAAAAACZk/Z83UtXDfCvsAcq4tC9eRMQ5a8KPAj4iNw/s400/Crocuses%2BLittle%2BFeet%2BHeritageCurrentCo..jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The way they're spread out and not very numerous makes me wonder how these came to be here. Did someone plant a lone bulb or two, or were they volunteers from the wind or animals? Either way, I'm glad we came across them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm hoping to get out my sewing machine this weekend, in which case I'll have a DIY tutorial for you early next week - in time for Easter (hint, hint)!</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-79633931829607465822016-03-08T00:16:00.002-05:002016-03-08T16:27:14.377-05:00Rural Romania<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7cTvdc0LWpU/Vt5ehiG_-uI/AAAAAAAACY0/ragGs90IJR0/s1600/31EA44BE00000578-0-image-a-2_1457267483513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7cTvdc0LWpU/Vt5ehiG_-uI/AAAAAAAACY0/ragGs90IJR0/s400/31EA44BE00000578-0-image-a-2_1457267483513.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3479025/Inside-medieval-Romanian-villages-idyllic-lifestyle-struggle-without-assistance-modern-technology.html" target="_blank">Photographer Alex Robciuc traveled to remote villages in the Transylvanian Alps of Romania</a> to capture the lives of local villagers. Their way of life is a traditional one, shunning much of modern technology and featuring local traditions and clothing that have been handed down through generations.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The men above have decked out their horses for a wedding. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5zeLV9nRRs/Vt5ehi-BNgI/AAAAAAAACY4/yXzdxzZyf0E/s1600/31EA447F00000578-0-image-a-28_1457269084629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5zeLV9nRRs/Vt5ehi-BNgI/AAAAAAAACY4/yXzdxzZyf0E/s400/31EA447F00000578-0-image-a-28_1457269084629.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Horses transport goods instead of cars or fancy machinery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sgfqoQiwzU/Vt5eh9A9LdI/AAAAAAAACZA/Gx9S5QkkfeI/s1600/31EA45B700000578-0-image-a-32_1457269373104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sgfqoQiwzU/Vt5eh9A9LdI/AAAAAAAACZA/Gx9S5QkkfeI/s400/31EA45B700000578-0-image-a-32_1457269373104.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A local boy in traditional dress. Note the wonderful collar embroidery and lace, and the jacket tassels!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbuAKO-pvXI/Vt5eho5DqUI/AAAAAAAACY8/bZ0EtlZEa9k/s1600/31EA435700000578-0-image-a-18_1457268778221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbuAKO-pvXI/Vt5eho5DqUI/AAAAAAAACY8/bZ0EtlZEa9k/s400/31EA435700000578-0-image-a-18_1457268778221.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A bride in traditional clothing and adornment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I sometimes wish we could wear more of the outfits of the past, and strip away unnecessary technology so that we better connect with our families and friends. What do you think?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
See more pictures and read more about the villagers <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3479025/Inside-medieval-Romanian-villages-idyllic-lifestyle-struggle-without-assistance-modern-technology.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-8135896488575291282016-02-29T16:33:00.000-05:002016-03-18T15:24:11.301-04:00Monday Musings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05EMrhrGhcw/VtS3R6UfY4I/AAAAAAAACYg/cGM6SanyFhs/s1600/CherryBlossoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05EMrhrGhcw/VtS3R6UfY4I/AAAAAAAACYg/cGM6SanyFhs/s400/CherryBlossoms.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How was everyone's weekend? Don't be fooled by this photo (taken last spring back in Boston). It doesn't look like this here in Portland! Instead, it was cloudy and brisk here, despite the higher temps, so I spent a good deal of time dreaming of spring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't wait for all the trees to be in blossom and for daffodils to peek their sunny yellow heads up from the flaxen grass. When you're in a new neighborhood or area and have never experienced spring there, you get to discover where all the unexpected tulips and crocuses and other flowers are hidden. I'm looking forward to getting out with the kidlet to see what we can find!</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-16770958096104904992016-02-23T15:47:00.003-05:002016-02-23T15:50:12.387-05:00Belated Christmas Crafts Part II: DIY Vintage Reflector Wreath<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhUX-bR71ek/Vsy_MOe9xZI/AAAAAAAACWs/LCyHNUfrbzo/s1600/SAM_3689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhUX-bR71ek/Vsy_MOe9xZI/AAAAAAAACWs/LCyHNUfrbzo/s400/SAM_3689.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For Christmas, I finally got around to making a wreath out of vintage reflectors. These decorative shapes cut out of metal (I believe either aluminum or tin) were manufactured to fit big old-style Christmas bulbs and reflect the light outwards. The ones I found on Ebay and Etsy came in pink, blue, silver, gold, green, and red.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEqe4Rrg-jU/Vsy_L1qlVvI/AAAAAAAACWo/mDeAoHhcDRs/s1600/SAM_3690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEqe4Rrg-jU/Vsy_L1qlVvI/AAAAAAAACWo/mDeAoHhcDRs/s400/SAM_3690.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some came attached as doubles, and some were singles that I had to mix and match myself. They tend to be in star, flower, or starburst shapes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqOTzIlS-es/Vsy_L_rFrkI/AAAAAAAACWk/-J8EGeZl4O4/s1600/SAM_3692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqOTzIlS-es/Vsy_L_rFrkI/AAAAAAAACWk/-J8EGeZl4O4/s400/SAM_3692.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since I didn't take pics along the way (crafting with a kid who might wake up from his nap any second is more about speed than anything else and winter light is awful anyways!), here's a rough guide to how I did it:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*First, buy some vintage reflectors. I sourced mine on Etsy and Ebay. They aren't cheap as they're currently very popular, but you only need 9 double or 18 single shapes. (I had enough leftover from the large batches I bought to make a wreath for my mom as well. Lucky her!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*.Buy a cardboard wreath frame that's fairly sturdy. I got mine at Papersource. (Dangerous store to walk into - you've been warned!) Pick a paint color you like, and paint your frame. I went with white. You'll probably need a couple of coats. Let dry between coats.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Buy a short strand of LED lights. I think my strand only had 12 lights. Since we're working with paper and glues, go the safe route and use LEDs. They don't heat up so the fire risk is very low. Obviously, don't leave lights on when you leave your house/apt. I found ones with a battery pack from Home Depot for less than $10. (However, they turned out to be TERRIBLE and I'm currently trying to find a better replacement. I'll talk about this more later.) I went with a battery pack so I wouldn't need to hang it near an outlet, allowing me to display it on a door. Just hide any extra length on the back of the frame or loop it around, and then attach your battery pack to the back with glue or strong tape.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*If you have any singles you need to match up, use very strong glue to attach together. I want to say I tried hot glue at first but found it popped off over time. So I switched to a very small amount of Gorilla Glue. This stuff expands a LOT so try to put it on the underside of your inner shapes a bit away from the inner edge and not close to the outer edge so it won't show once it's dry. Follow safety directions on the glue.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Lay out your doubles on your wreath frame until you find an order that you like. You want a good variation in both background/outer color and liner/inner color for your double reflectors. Make sure they're evenly spaced. You might have to spin them around so they fit together better (especially for the starburst shapes). I tried to do a sequence of three background colors, and then form triangles across the wreath of inner colors while also varying the shape. Buying extra reflectors can make this easier.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Mark the inside opening of each with a pencil dot. Set aside reflectors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Be super-scientific/safe (sarcasm) and start each hole with a nail that you whack in with whatever heavy object is nearby. I might've used a stapler (don't be me: find a safer way).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Once the nail is through to the other side, take your pencil and start working it into the hole. Get the tip in, then start spinning it around back and forth til the hole enlarges. I don't know why this works to enlarge the hole, but it does. (See: super scientific/safe process.) Have a firm grip on your frame so it doesn't buckle as you do this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Using a bulb from your LED strand to check the width of the hole as you go, enlarge until your bulb fits tightly into the space from the underside of the frame. You might have to pop off the top and just use the socket to get it into the hole from below, then you can replace the light from the top once it's in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Do this for every hole.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Remove any lights, and glue on your reflectors around each hole in the order that you chose. I went with Gorilla Glue for this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Once it's dry, use an x-acto knife or other tool to remove any expanded glue you don't want to see. Paint any remaining bits/bits that won't come off your wreath color (so I used white).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Replace lights, add batteries or plug-in, and hang! You could add a ribbon loop for hanging. I just banged in a nail and then rested the top of the inner circle of the wreath on it. Up to you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*A note on the lights I used: a downside to LED lights is that they aren't as bright as regular lights. (You can barely see mine in daylight.) Mine also only lit up in certain areas, I think because of the way they hung when I put it up on the wall. So maybe buy a couple different strands and see what works best.</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-32366901571540624522016-02-17T16:08:00.001-05:002016-02-23T15:49:36.146-05:00Belated Christmas Crafts 2015 Part 1: Glittered Putz Houses<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZtk1KnMBcU/VsTfkrXbekI/AAAAAAAACWU/5qygpZwSpLs/s1600/DIY%2BGlittered%2BPutz%2BHouses%2Bfor%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZtk1KnMBcU/VsTfkrXbekI/AAAAAAAACWU/5qygpZwSpLs/s400/DIY%2BGlittered%2BPutz%2BHouses%2Bfor%2BChristmas%2BHolidays%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sometimes I have to let go and accept that between chasing a toddler, house-hunting, making time for my husband, and dealing with the constant exhaustion of pregnancy, I just can't post as often as I'd like. Someday, there will be time for more making and more posting and more, well, everything. But, for now, this is the phase of life I'm in and instead of fighting it and becoming frustrated, I just need to accept that this will pass (all too soon, can't believe how quickly babies grow up!) and enjoy the moments I have rather than the ones in my head that don't come to pass.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So here I am, for the second year in a row, posting my Christmas projects late. Apologies, but I figured if you plan parts of your life out up to a year advance (as I do, see: babies!), you might want to add these to your crafting calendar for next year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you look up Putz houses, you can find plenty of free patterns online. I chose a few that I liked, printed out the templates, traced them onto empty cereal boxes I'd been saving (they're a great cardboard weight), painted them white, and then brushed them with glue before sprinkling on clear glitter from Michael's. For the "snow", I just stretched and tore up cotton balls and arranged them in drifts around the houses. I like to put a flickering LED candle inside the church (on the left), so it glows at night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KlLph95BwU/VszFwVFJR9I/AAAAAAAACW8/hrtNEGAbCUU/s1600/SAM_3672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KlLph95BwU/VszFwVFJR9I/AAAAAAAACW8/hrtNEGAbCUU/s400/SAM_3672.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One caveat: remember to cut out the windows and doors *before* you assemble and glitter these! I only remembered to do this for the church. The others don't have any windows or doors, and I can't cut them out now without crushing them. (I'm going to redo them for next year.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-76502761031362134282016-02-08T15:50:00.000-05:002016-02-08T15:50:15.483-05:00Burns Night Cranachan (Scottish Berries and Cream!) Two Ways<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have you ever celebrated Burns Night? It's a Scottish holiday toasting the life of the famous poet Robert (also known as "Rabbie") Burns and always falling on his birthday, January 25th.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we lived in Boston, my husband and I would go to The Haven in Jamaica Plain for the night. They always have a 3-course meal, Scottish beers, whiskey, bagpipes, traditional folk songs, and more. I highly recommend checking out this pub if you're in the area!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The piping in of the haggis is the centerpiece of the whole night. Haggis is definitely an acquired taste, consisting of oatmeal mixed with minced offal (usually lungs and kidneys, I believe) and spices, then boiled in a sheep's stomach. I promise you, it tastes much better than it sounds! Before the dish is served to the guests, someone recites the entirety of Burns' poem "Ode to a Haggis". The best line? "Gie her a haggis!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-is93ZtPye3A/VrZcejqRrUI/AAAAAAAACV8/qT1Y0935y7s/s1600/CranachanTraditionalHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-is93ZtPye3A/VrZcejqRrUI/AAAAAAAACV8/qT1Y0935y7s/s400/CranachanTraditionalHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cranachan is often served for dessert. It usually consists of whipped or double cream, pureed raspberries (with whiskey, if you're so inclined), and toasted oatmeal. It's layered in glasses like you see here. Make sure you stick your spoon down a few layers to get a little bit of everything in each bite! I'd recommend pairing the raspberries with a toffee, butterscotch-y lowland Scotch, rather than a smoky, peaty Highland variety. (I prefer the latter for drinking on its own though!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-orcYEXGBSII/VrZcd3DjNSI/AAAAAAAACV4/vST7cx3Stuo/s1600/CranachanHealthyNewerVersionHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-orcYEXGBSII/VrZcd3DjNSI/AAAAAAAACV4/vST7cx3Stuo/s400/CranachanHealthyNewerVersionHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next day, I really wanted more but didn't want an entire glass and didn't feel like taking the time to whip cream. So I poured a little cream and whole milk over raspberries, tossed some leftover oats on top, and found out that this makes a delicious, quick, fairly healthy snack. I think a lot of the appeal is that it reminds me of being a little kid and eating bowls of sun-warmed berries fresh from the backyard with milk and sugar in the summer. The simplest things are often the best, don't you think?</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-90237663849519384262015-12-03T16:59:00.002-05:002015-12-03T16:59:37.624-05:00DIY Spool Knit "Merry" Christmas Letters in Candy Cane Colors<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pTKCG2xQuw/VLAS45-hm2I/AAAAAAAACJw/fqzUaEmO-Nc/s1600/Merry%2BLetters%2Bon%2BFloor%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pTKCG2xQuw/VLAS45-hm2I/AAAAAAAACJw/fqzUaEmO-Nc/s400/Merry%2BLetters%2Bon%2BFloor%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In a similar vein to my <a href="http://3lambsstudio.blogspot.com/2015/01/diy-spoolknit-candy-cane-ornament.html" target="_blank">candy cane spool knit ornament</a>, I made these festive holiday letters. I decided to spell out "merry", but you can use whatever word or phrase you wish.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You'll need a spool with nails or tacks knocked in, some sort of fiber for the "knitting" part, flexible wires, needle-nose pliers, and a needle. I used red and white baker's twine as my fiber.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For my spool knitting tutorial, please click <a href="http://3lambsstudio.blogspot.com/2011/11/diy-silver-spoolknit-necklace.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBsqdxAAUHc/VLAS3aojhKI/AAAAAAAACJM/9MRPMxvQh6s/s1600/Letter%2BGuide%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kBsqdxAAUHc/VLAS3aojhKI/AAAAAAAACJM/9MRPMxvQh6s/s400/Letter%2BGuide%2BSm.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used graph paper to draw my letters, making sure they'd be the same height and I used similar widths as well. Make sure you draw your letters as one continuous line. You can see here where I changed straight lines into loops to do this. We'll recreate these letters in wire to provide an inner structure and form for the spool knit tubes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8KnnBrsRsvY/VLAS4fHSwTI/AAAAAAAACJc/B515TLBBzqU/s1600/Merr%2BFrom%2BTop%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8KnnBrsRsvY/VLAS4fHSwTI/AAAAAAAACJc/B515TLBBzqU/s400/Merr%2BFrom%2BTop%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's an example of what some of your finished letters will look like.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Icn5buq-hnE/VLAS3nsJc7I/AAAAAAAACJQ/j9-Q_hon4bs/s1600/Letters%2BClose%2BUp%2BM%2BE%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Icn5buq-hnE/VLAS3nsJc7I/AAAAAAAACJQ/j9-Q_hon4bs/s400/Letters%2BClose%2BUp%2BM%2BE%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A close-up of some of the letters so you can see the details better and the effect that variegated twine creates.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FLGRgO5BPdI/VLAS6G74RXI/AAAAAAAACKE/tkT6BGtfKWU/s1600/Y%2BLining%2BUp%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FLGRgO5BPdI/VLAS6G74RXI/AAAAAAAACKE/tkT6BGtfKWU/s400/Y%2BLining%2BUp%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To form your inner wire frames/structures, cut a long length of wire. I believe I used 20 gauge gold-tone wire for mine. Lay the wire on top of your sketched letters (I traced my finished letters onto white paper so I could see the wire better as I bent it). Use your pliers to bend the wire into each letter. I found a few gentle bends where the wire overlapped or curved was all that was needed. You can also use your hands to bend parts of the wire into shape.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Make sure you leave 1/4" or so of overhang at the beginning and end of each letter. You'll be bending this later (see two pictures down).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--C1UjEkBCM8/VLAS6kFsnqI/AAAAAAAACKQ/LCHQL3cWg_A/s1600/Y%2BWire%2BFrame%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--C1UjEkBCM8/VLAS6kFsnqI/AAAAAAAACKQ/LCHQL3cWg_A/s400/Y%2BWire%2BFrame%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's my almost-finished "Y". I closed my pliers on the place where the wire overlapped to keep the pieces fairly close together. You want enough room to slide your tube past this point, but not so much that the top piece is up in the air.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uIFwENLlKgU/VLAS6rwgaCI/AAAAAAAACKY/YkZSh-S_PoA/s1600/Y%2BPulling%2BOver%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uIFwENLlKgU/VLAS6rwgaCI/AAAAAAAACKY/YkZSh-S_PoA/s400/Y%2BPulling%2BOver%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To finish your wire forms, bend each end down into a loop (you can see this here on the end I left uncovered). This will prevent the wire from getting poked up through the tubes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When each letter's form is completed, knit your tubes. As I spool knit each piece, I'd pause along the way, lay it over my forms, and make sure I was going to have a long enough knit tube for each length of wire. You want a little bit extra on the beginning and end of each letter so the tube isn't stretched tight. Don't leave so much, however, that your tube ends up bunched and wrinkled. I'd say about 1/4 - 1/3 an inch extra per end is good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V_-39iOcfWU/VLAS5m5KJrI/AAAAAAAACJ4/qduC69BUIik/s1600/Y%2BClose%2BUp%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V_-39iOcfWU/VLAS5m5KJrI/AAAAAAAACJ4/qduC69BUIik/s400/Y%2BClose%2BUp%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leave an extra six inches or so of twine/fiber at each tube's end. Pull the spool knit tube's ends up over the wire loops and use your needle to gather the ends together. Cinch tight </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjpLjzz71wk/VLAS4lEazyI/AAAAAAAACJg/l7Sjw9ohr1o/s1600/Merry%2BLetters%2BY%2BSewing%2Bin%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjpLjzz71wk/VLAS4lEazyI/AAAAAAAACJg/l7Sjw9ohr1o/s400/Merry%2BLetters%2BY%2BSewing%2Bin%2BEnds%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you're done, insert the needle into the tube for an inch or so, and then back out. Pull slightly tight, and cut the extra off close to the tube. This will ensure that each end "disappears" inside the tube.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1efgJLx_S0/VLAS5AO9_eI/AAAAAAAACJ0/YeWLDXO9ZSA/s1600/Merry%2BOn%2BShelf%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1efgJLx_S0/VLAS5AO9_eI/AAAAAAAACJ0/YeWLDXO9ZSA/s400/Merry%2BOn%2BShelf%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The finished product!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUcUw2aLIQY/VLAS4-laRiI/AAAAAAAACJo/LMx1naPHuvg/s1600/Merry%2BLetters%2Bin%2BTree%2BSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUcUw2aLIQY/VLAS4-laRiI/AAAAAAAACJo/LMx1naPHuvg/s400/Merry%2BLetters%2Bin%2BTree%2BSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, because I couldn't resist, I snapped a photo of the letters in our tree surrounded by white lights. This year, I'm displaying the letters as a banner. I strung them on white yarn and hung them over a doorway to make my little guy smile!</div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-68825766279862738682015-10-30T17:31:00.001-04:002015-10-30T17:31:50.048-04:00Happy Halloween!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjudX-o6DDg/VjPgfeyACDI/AAAAAAAACT0/ZDC-j3XG-fw/s1600/Crows%2BOrange%2BLeaves%2BHappy%2BHalloween%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjudX-o6DDg/VjPgfeyACDI/AAAAAAAACT0/ZDC-j3XG-fw/s400/Crows%2BOrange%2BLeaves%2BHappy%2BHalloween%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's almost Halloween! Can you believe it'll be November soon? The fall has just been flying by so far. I snapped this pic after a storm a few weeks ago and thought the contrast of orange leaves and black crows and branches would be perfect for an All Hallow's Eve post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are your plans for the occasion? We'll be dressing up the little guy as a raccoon in honor of his current favorite book, "Wait Til the Moon is Full" by Margaret Wise Brown, and hitting a few houses in the neighborhood. And then eating some of his candy when he's asleep because a.) how much candy does an under- 2 y.o. really need, am I right? and b.) the kid is hyper enough (and currently on a nap strike) without adding sugar to the equation!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-18258420799154214362015-10-14T15:36:00.000-04:002015-10-14T15:36:11.246-04:00Life in Another State<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r86XWF17maI/Vh6tzfRDP8I/AAAAAAAACTU/TkheuJFHgug/s1600/FoundApplesSmWm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r86XWF17maI/Vh6tzfRDP8I/AAAAAAAACTU/TkheuJFHgug/s400/FoundApplesSmWm.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dfdSJrx4jc/Vh6tzziMW2I/AAAAAAAACTc/4ulnbHtF4QM/s1600/FallenApplesSmWm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dfdSJrx4jc/Vh6tzziMW2I/AAAAAAAACTc/4ulnbHtF4QM/s400/FallenApplesSmWm.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I always forget how much chaos moving causes. I think it's just a week of moving things into boxes, then a week of moving things out of them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe it's crazier than usual this year because we moved out of state. We're no longer Massachusettians! (I refuse to acknowledge "Bay Stater" as the "correct" term, since I never ever heard someone from MA use it.) We've gone north, to the lovely state of Maine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've noticed neglected, prolific-branched apple trees tucked everywhere around here. I couldn't resist picking a few and photographing the drops. I hope your fall is filled with apples and pumpkins and beautiful foliage as well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-15080998206196369972015-08-04T16:51:00.001-04:002015-08-04T16:51:31.859-04:00Farmers' Market Flowers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t90oUJe3KRU/VcEkhmVwq8I/AAAAAAAACSA/t9zA-uDEgZg/s1600/FarmersMarketFlowersSm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t90oUJe3KRU/VcEkhmVwq8I/AAAAAAAACSA/t9zA-uDEgZg/s400/FarmersMarketFlowersSm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was rainy and gloomy most of this afternoon, with passing crashing-cymbal-filled thunderstorms that pelted the ground with gumball-sized hailstones. It's been years since I've seen hail! Such a strange sight, and so weird to hear thousands of little dings and whacks at once as they bounce off of different surfaces and ricochet around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So here's a photo of bright and sunny bouquets of zinnias, veronica, amaranth, black-eyed susans, and kale from the local farmers' markets to harken back to sunnier, hail-free days!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the way, what do you go with - farmer's market, farmers market, or farmers' market? I go with the latter because there's always more than one farmer present, but I honestly have no idea which is right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What do you think?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-64166307798839594132015-07-27T16:50:00.001-04:002015-07-27T16:50:55.536-04:00Getting Back Up On the Bicycle...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=27339605&category=A-TEXTILEPROMO" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cj-OOpf0IRY/VbaX0usQQVI/AAAAAAAACRc/ozWsdAT302s/s400/Trompe%2BLOeil%2BEiffel%2BTower%2BTapestry%2BUrban%2BOutfitters.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't know if it's just toddlerhood (and the accompanying non-stop chasing and accident-avoidance it entails) that seems to turn my brain's workings into cogs stuck in molasses these days, or if the hot summer weather is to blame as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have some archived DIYs I'm hoping to share soon, but as I haven't done much making and crafting recently, I thought I'd share a find instead!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not much of an Urban Outfitters shopper, but this <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=27339605&category=A-TEXTILEPROMO" target="_blank">Parisian tapestry</a> caught my eye this week. I love the elaborately carved stone details and the muted colors in this trompe l'oeil (or "fool the eye") piece. It'd be perfect for the end wall of a small bedroom or reading nook, and I think you could easily turn it into a shower curtain as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hopefully I'll be back later this week with more posts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-8967927676372374892015-05-06T16:19:00.000-04:002015-05-06T16:19:17.612-04:00Magnolia Days<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4IpraRKo8k/VUp2ox_9usI/AAAAAAAACP0/IJD6jLh1OlE/s1600/MagnoliaSmWm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4IpraRKo8k/VUp2ox_9usI/AAAAAAAACP0/IJD6jLh1OlE/s1600/MagnoliaSmWm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just a little snap of the "Queen of May" - the magnolia! Blushing rosy pink fading to creamy white in giant petals that slowly unfurl to their true glory and beauty. A favorite.</div>
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-45594780307055952632015-04-29T00:49:00.000-04:002015-04-29T00:49:13.618-04:00Warm Weather is Here...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/126924407/divers-print" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tc6bSW8L92U/VUBUECTfFsI/AAAAAAAACPY/RMjmh6W_8Vg/s1600/Jing%2BWei%2BDivers%2BPrint%2BEtsy.jpg" height="400" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The breeze finally carries more spring warmth than winter chill, the daffodils are blooming, the trees are starting to bud...and all I want to do is go for a swim! Maybe I'm just trying to wash off all the road salt and sand from the record-setting Boston winter we had that I'm sure has seeped into my skin and permeated my bones. I don't remember a winter that felt as long and hopeless as this past one! More than one "Winter is Coming...oh wait, it's here and never going away!" joke was cracked (*in hindsight, not a terribly funny slogan, feel free NOT to laugh...).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Too bad the Atlantic is still far, FAR too frigid for a dip. And the local pool is closed til nearly July. So, I guess I'll just have to stare at this lovely linocut of swimmers diving into and frolicking in a pool of water by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/126924407/divers-print" target="_blank">Jing Wei</a> on Etsy and count down the days. Or just find a really, really big puddle?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8353834825682840568.post-58947041701428315432015-04-24T13:44:00.000-04:002015-04-24T13:44:42.977-04:00DIY Easter Egg Dye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9IynZMdt68/VTp8YLWNLII/AAAAAAAACO4/7aq3P_c0erY/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BComparison%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9IynZMdt68/VTp8YLWNLII/AAAAAAAACO4/7aq3P_c0erY/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BComparison%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Intrigued by the many bloggers posting about natural Easter egg dyes, I finally caved and decided to try it for myself! Here are three white eggs I dyed using purple cabbage. I'll leave it to you to find an exact recipe you like. I basically just winged it, chopping up an entire head (minus the white core) simmering it for five-ish minutes in enough water to cover it before straining it and adding a couple tablespoons of white vinegar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I submerged my eggs overnight, letting them cool for a bit in the solution before transferring them to the fridge for the rest of their soak.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wDeAV8ORR1o/VTp8Xa5zAII/AAAAAAAACOw/vtEYRvvu7PM/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BDarker%2BBlue%2BEgg%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wDeAV8ORR1o/VTp8Xa5zAII/AAAAAAAACOw/vtEYRvvu7PM/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BDarker%2BBlue%2BEgg%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This egg came out the darkest. It was a lovely deep, slightly teal shade of blue. I've read that if you leave the vegetal/natural matter in the dye, you can get a mottled look. I think I'll try that next time. A marbled effect would look great in this color!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3VCzXlsBdg/VTp8XF2pKBI/AAAAAAAACOg/J5mkcEeK4xA/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BCherry%2BBlossom%2BPetals%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3VCzXlsBdg/VTp8XF2pKBI/AAAAAAAACOg/J5mkcEeK4xA/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BCherry%2BBlossom%2BPetals%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For this egg, I arranged a few dried cherry blossom petals on a square of old nylons/pantyhose and then wrapped this square tightly around the egg, fastening it with a twist tie. I like how some of the dye went through the petals, giving them delicate veins. I was worried they'd just end up looking like giant white spots, but the little detailed lines prevented this!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eHGD9s9Guk8/VTp8X1F6R7I/AAAAAAAACO8/Ewwn9BmRoX4/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BLighter%2BBlue%2BEgg%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eHGD9s9Guk8/VTp8X1F6R7I/AAAAAAAACO8/Ewwn9BmRoX4/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEgg%2BLighter%2BBlue%2BEgg%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This last egg came out slightly lighter than the others, for unknown reasons. I think it's interesting that you can get varying shades from the exact same dye bath. It's a nice variation in color without any effort!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fq6fJaWsQ9E/VTp8W48AHMI/AAAAAAAACOc/Bv77xZJlUcM/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BBut%2BNot%2BHarboiled%2BWhoops%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fq6fJaWsQ9E/VTp8W48AHMI/AAAAAAAACOc/Bv77xZJlUcM/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BBut%2BNot%2BHarboiled%2BWhoops%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was under the impression that the hot dye, which I only let cool for a few minutes before submerging the eggs, would hardboil the insides. So when I went to crack one for an afternoon snack, I was very surprised to find this instead! I'll have to figure out what went wrong for next time. Perhaps I needed a larger volume of dye.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imxJyugM_rA/VTp8Xm876ZI/AAAAAAAACOo/nuJ7wGGq8mY/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BBroken%2BShells%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imxJyugM_rA/VTp8Xm876ZI/AAAAAAAACOo/nuJ7wGGq8mY/s1600/Naturally%2BDyed%2BEaster%2BEggs%2BBroken%2BShells%2BHeritageCurrentCo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The remnants of my craft project, all crushed and ready for the compost pile or for dressing the garden! Even in this state, the eggshells are lovely to look at, don't you think?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next on the agenda is homemade dusty pink dye from avocado pits! I've been collecting them to dye yarn with, but after seeing these results I can't wait to use the dye on eggs too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
HeritageCurrentCo.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17543146059289143725noreply@blogger.com0