Let’s face it, the Christmas season can be unhealthy. From the edibles we gift to the chocolates we receive. And I do love my chocolate. Dark, very dark. Yes, dark chocolate is an essential in my life. But I recently came across this DIY Clementine Wreath. I think it’s genius. It’s quick. Healthy. Colorful. Festive. It’s…
Wild and Wooly New England Thanksgiving 2014
I wondered early on how it might go for Thanksgiving this year. In early October we were invited to spend Thanksgiving with extended family in Pennsylvania. We got excited about the possibility ’til one of the kids needed a major ACL surgery reconstruction that had to happen over Thanksgiving break. So we mentally re-grouped and…
Yarnball Christmas Ornament
It’s a simple, sweet DIY Yarnball Christmas Ornament. This would make a great stocking stuffer for the knitter(s) in your life. Or the eclectic ornament collector. Or just an unforgettable gift tie-on. A few years back I was really into knitting. OK, truth. I’m still really into knitting. I just don’t get to do it as…
Simon Pearce Glass, Quechee VT
My cousin first told me about the treasure of Simon Pearce Glass in Quechee, VT several years ago. Funny, since she’s in Chicago and I live here in New England. Simon Pearce is known worldwide for his artistic glass blown pieces and designs. The gristmill was operational here in Quechee beginning in 1778. Over…
Spoiled @ Moon Dog Cafe, Chester VT
A few girlfriends and I recently flew the coop for a little Vermont getaway. Flap flap flap, all the way to the Green Mountain state. The mountains were still green. But they won’t be for long. The first significant snowfall of the season is forecasted today. It’s not that I’m surprised. I was born in…
Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving dinner, I’ve got a recipe your family will love: Turkey Tetrazzini. My mama always made this for us growing up. They say “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” (You don’t mind if I share our little family recipe, do you Mom?) My mom’s always been…
Near Death By Elephant
The Himalayas and Pokhara, Nepal – viewed from the World Peace Pagoda. I’ve been listening and watching for more than a few decades now. And I’ve got a story to share. It’s true, every word. It takes a few hairpin turns, so hang with me. Not long ago Jon traveled to Nepal on a…
Fresh Whole Cranberry Sauce
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I do love Fresh Whole Cranberry Sauce with the bird. I’ve included a variation for cranberry almond and cranberry orange sauce, hope something will be just right for your Thanksgiving celebration. Cranberries have always been near and dear to my heart. Many wonderful childhood memories, meandering the cranberry bogs by…
DIY Bookmarks
Don’t you love these whimsical DIY Bookmarks? A perfect dose of cheer, they make me smile. I’ve been making, using and gifting them for years. The receivers seem to appreciate and use them too. There are many uses besides holding a book page. Here’s how I use mine, I’m sure you can add to the…
Always (!) Follow the rules…
The carbon monoxide detector was blaring loudly, and they knew they should call the fire department. But they hesitated, these sisters, roommates for seventy plus years. Their custom-built villa on the hill was beautifully landscaped, overflowing with antiques and original artwork. The floors were carpeted with wall to wall pristine white carpet. And the…