There is nothing more traditional or timeless then using oranges in your Christmas decor. Putting oranges in stockings are said to represent a gift of gold from Saint Nicholas. Dried oranges (or other citrus fruit) are the perfect way to give a touch of handmade to your Christmas decor without spending a lot of money or devoting too much time to crafting. While there are many ways to implement natural items in your Christmas decor, there's nothing like the fragrant, colorful look of dried oranges. I thought I might share some projects so you can have your own citrus Christmas. DRYING YOUR ...
A CITRUS CHRISTMAS
HEALTHIER BANANA BREAD RECIPE
Who doesn't love banana bread? It is also a great way to use up some of those over ripened bananas in your freezer. Sometimes, however, banana bread can come out dry and bland. So, I thought I would share my healthier banana bread recipe that is guaranteed to also be moist! There are a few tricks to making the ultimate moist banana bread. Using olive oil helps keep it moist, as does using LOTS of bananas– I used four, which also helps sweeten the bread naturally. This means that there isn’t a lot of sugar in the recipe, but it’s still decadently sweet. This banana bread recipe also ...
APPLE BUTTER RECIPE
I don't know about you but Fall is my favourite season. Not only is it time to bring out all your comfy sweaters and scarfs, it also brings pumpkin spice everything and the apple harvest. The most delicious thing to make with apples is of course apple pie (and nobody made a better one then my Mimi) but second has got to be apple butter. What is the difference between applesauce and apple butter you ask? Both apple butter and apple sauce are slow cooked apples and spices, but apple butter is cooked longer than applesauce which creates a thick, smooth, intense apple flavored spread. I ...
VISIBLE MENDING
Only a few generations ago, socks were routinely darned, sweaters mended and pants patched. I feel like it is time to get back to our old ways and mend the world, not trash it. Sashiko, the Japanese form of decorative reinforced stitching invented in the early 17th century, is as popular as ever. While visible mending dates back to the Edo period of the history of Japan, there are more and more makers incorporating the hand-stitching technique into their wardrobes, which means less clothing making their way to the landfill! In Japanese, sashiko translates to “little stabs” referring to ...
VINTAGE TEA PARTY
High tea as most North Americans think of it (a dainty meal of tea, scones, finger sandwiches, and sweets) is more correctly known as "afternoon tea." Regardless of what you prefer to call this afternoon meal of tea and snacks, I think it is the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day or a birthday. Here are some tips on how to throw your very own vintage tea party! DRINKS Tea - As you plan your afternoon tea menu, don't forget to select a few teas to pair with your food. An obvious choice is Earl Grey as it is the world's most famous flavored black tea. The natural sweetness of Earl ...
