Sisterhood of the Traveling Bedrooms (III) ...Sweet Seventies

Every era has a defining characteristic, something that rewinds you to the days gone past. 

For me, it's a teenage girl's bedroom.  
Maybe I'm just missing having Ashley home!  


Really, if you want an accurate portrayal of the trends today,  you should just take a peek upstairs, after all aren't those beautiful babies (hardly babies ...) our future?

Over the next few weeks, Ashley (no longer my brilliant teenager) is going to take you on a journey through the decades via the bedrooms that shaped generations. 

Enjoy my guest blogger.... 
All my best,

Welcome back! 

Get ready to be accosted with bright colors and patterns galore, 

because bedrooms this week are straight from the 70's!! 

This room has everything I love about 70's decor. Pattern, texture, and bold colors! The sassy bejeweled jungle cat is just a bonus. 

Don't you just love when your dress matches your duvet?

Once you get past the bright traffic cone orange, you may notice some delish built in shelving. 

(And another bejeweled jungle cat)

This room is by far my favorite. Nothing like taking a theme and sticking with it! You can even catch a glimpse of what must be an amazing peacock rug! 

Until next week... Stay fab!

Sisterhood of the Traveling Bedrooms (II) .... Psychodelic Sixties

Every era has a defining characteristic, something that rewinds you to the days gone past. 

For me, it's a teenage girl's bedroom.  
Maybe I'm just missing having Ashley home!  


Really, if you want an accurate portrayal of the trends today,  you should just take a peek upstairs, after all aren't those beautiful babies (hardly babies ...) our future?

Over the next few weeks, Ashley (no longer my brilliant teenager) is going to take you on a journey through the decades via the bedrooms that shaped generations. 

Enjoy my guest blogger.... 
All my best,

This week we're continuing our journey through the decade with bedrooms from the 1960's..


Every decade has their shining musical stars.. Easily identifiable by their images plastered all over adolescent across the land.

Could really do without that clown in the middleof the floor though...

Communication is key. How else are you supposed to absorb your daily dose of high school gossip?

And no girl's room is complete without a couple of stuffed animals. These are sporting the classic 60's color scheme of pink, orange, yellow, and green. 

Floral gets a face lift with these mod decals adorning the wardrobe, mirror, and bed. 

The quirky furniture in this room really showcases the less ridged attitude that the citizens of the 60's adopted. A wicker elephant nightstand? Why not. 

Until next time, when we take on the 1970's!! 

Sisterhood of the Traveling Bedrooms... The Fab Fifties.

Every era has a defining characteristic, something that rewinds you to the days gone past. 

For me, it's a teenage girl's bedroom.  
Maybe I'm just missing having Ashley home!  


Really, if you want an accurate portrayal of the trends today,  you should just take a peek upstairs, after all aren't those beautiful babies (hardly babies ...) our future?

Over the next few weeks, Ashley (no longer my brilliant teenager) is going to take you on a journey through the decades via the bedrooms that shaped generations. 

Enjoy my guest blogger.... 
All my best,

Today, we're stating with the 1950's, a decade that often stands out as one of America's best. It was an era that was charmed by Lucy and the Cleavers, created the interstate highway system, and fulfilled the goal of the suburban dream house.

For the average teenage girl, this meant one thing.. PINK!! 

Milk Glass Lamps were 'hip'! 

Pastel colors were all the rage, gracing not only bedrooms, 

but also kitchens, bathrooms, and even tail-fined cars. 

Other bright, lively colors were also found on the floors. 

This new age brought designers to mass produced furniture. 

Plastic, glass, and plexiglass were all new materials that were introduced.

That's all folks! 

Tune in next week for the 60's!!

Snow Day Pizza!

My Prince and son will be out today working hard plowing, snowblowing and shoveling.  They do it all out of the kindness of their hearts … no monitary compensation, just the satisfaction of knowing they have done a good deed. 

So today as they brave the cold, I'll be in the Kitchen … making my homemade pizza for them.  

Grab your aprons and join me today making this fabulous treat!

Dough 

• 3.5 cups all purpose flour (bread flour will give you a crispier crust) plus extra 
• 1 teaspoon sugar 
• 1 package of active yeast 
• 1.5 cups warm water (105-115 degrees)
• 2 teaspoons salt 
• 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra

Instructions 

• In a large mixture (I use a KitchenAide *love it!*) pour warm water, add yeast and let stand for 5 minutes to dissolve, you may have to stir it a touch after 5 minutes to finish to dissolving process. 
• Add olive oil, sugar, salt and flour and mix for about a minute with standard mixing paddle. 
• Remove paddle and replace with kneading hook, knead for 10 minutes.  If you dough is sloppy add a little more flour 
• Coat glass bowl with olive oil add roll dough in bowl, creating a ball completely covered with oil 
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set in a warm place to rise for about 1.5 hours, the dough should double in size.
• While the dough is rising make your sauce!

Sauce 

• one can of tomato sauce 8 oz can 
• one can of tomato paste 6 oz can
• one small onion chopped  or about 1/2 cup
• clove garlic 
• bay left
• dried oregano, about a teaspoon* 
• dried basil, about a teaspoon* 
• salt, about a half teaspoon* 
• two heaping tablespoons of Molasses (I love a sweet sauce!)
• olive oil 
• butter about tablespoon*
• *I say 'about' because I never measure these!  I've always done this by taste!

Instructions 

• In a large skillet over medium heat melt and blend with oil (couple tablespoons)
• Sauté onion and garlic until soft and smelling amazing!
• Reduce heat to medium low 
• Add tomato sauce and paste, stir until well blended 
• Bring to a simmer, I like to let this simmer for half hour … really infuses the flavor!
• Remove bay leaf … and your sauce is ready for that fabulous crust!

Finishing your crust and the topping …. 

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees … 
• Punch down the your dough and divide into two balls, and placed on a floured surface.
• Let balls rest for 10 minutes or so
• Working one ball at a time stretch and work dough into desired shape, if the dough is fighting you a bit let it rest for a few minutes. 
• I like to bake my pizza on cookie sheets…. so I brush my cookie sheet with just a little bit of olive oil use this sparingly!
• Sprinkle a little corn meal … in a pinch I've used additional flour 
• Place on cookie sheet and brush top of the dough with oil 
• Let rest while you make prepare your second ball 
• Spread sauce over dough … less is more here, too much sauce makes for a very soggy pizza!
• Finish off with desired cheese topping … I like Mozzarella & fresh shredded Parmesan they are a fabulous combo
• Add your additional toppings … and finish with a light additional layer of cheese 
• Bake 10-15 minutes … this number will fluctuate depending on how thick your crust is, when sauce is bubbling and your crust is golden its done … 

Enjoy …. 

definition of extraordinary

I bounced on my toes through the kitchen, into the family room, back to the kitchen following closely on my mom’s heals. “Can we go? Can we go?”  My bathing suit was rolled in my towel and tucked tightly under my arm, I was all ready to go. 

After what felt like an eternity to any young child waiting, the car was loaded.
“C’mon! c’mon!‘ I yelled as I shoved and pushed my way into the back seat.  Finally, Dad backed the car out of the driveway.  I knew the route by heart, I kept my face glued to the window watching each landmark speed by. We rounded the corner by Fowlers Market, and my toes began to tingle, as we passed the package store, my belly tickled.  As my dad was applying the breaks, I could see the tree line and sharp dip of the driveway, it was then that I would shiver with excitement. 

The car doors opened and familiarity filled my senses, a cool, refreshing breeze kissed my cheeks, the old transistor radio barked out play by play of a baseball game.  I ran towards the circle of lawn chairs squinting at the sun reflecting off the water, breathing in the array of smells, the musty old boat house, the freshly cut grass, the crisp lake and the sweet smell of old baking.  There they sat, my Grandfather, Uncle Steve, Uncle Benny & Uncle Stanley, I got a wave and a smile which was abruptly interrupted by a shout of joy, not for me but for a great play just announced through the radio.  My Grandmother sat in her chaise lounge snapping her gum and knitting away, Aunt Mary with her hair done and her signature red nails chatted away while flipping through the newspaper.   I made my way around the circle planting quick kisses on each of their checks. Uncle Stanley pulled me into his lap, and asked “how’s my girl?!” I giggled as he pulled my face to his and smiled widely.  He smelled of cigarettes, shaving cream and bakery confections, which were embedded into his skin. 

A familiar clatter leaked from the cottage, cabinet doors squeaking, dishes clanking, laughter and chitchat filled the air. I wrapped my hand around the screen door handle, pulled hard and scooted in quickly before the door kissed my backside as it slammed shut.  I ran across the cool crackling old linoleum floor, following my aunts voices to the back porch.  “Lisa!” My aunts cried, their eyes danced and huge smiles filled their faces.  They wrapped me in genuine hugs that I would squirm away a little to quickly from.  It didn’t matter if it was a week or a few hours, they always greeted me the same way.  

Through the back porch door I dashed, remembering to hold on carefully to the old railing, these were a few steep steps.  I raced down the hill, trying to watch for raised tree roots, I had suffered more than one face plant do to those nasty little buggers.  I waved my arms calling out to my uncles who were checking the stability of the old dock.  They waved back, the bright summer sun reflected off the water creating silhouettes of their faces, and although I could not see them, I felt their smiles. 

The water lapped against the lake wall, as my cousins splashed and played.  There was no need to say hello to the boys, I just needed to change into my bathing suit and then I’d see them. I ran back up to the cottage, through the back porch door across the crinkly linoleum floor to the bathroom.  Ugh, the door was closed.  I slumped onto the floor to wait.  The trees rustled outside the window, I heard my dad asking about the game.  I listened to my Mom with my aunts in the kitchen and started to count the ceiling tiles above my head, patience was not a strength of this child at the tender age of ten.  The bathroom door opened, my Uncle Jimmy tousled my hair and said, “It’s all yours kiddo!”  I couldn’t change fast enough, I just had to get into the lake!  I busted out of the bathroom, with my balled up clothes and tossed them into the bedroom.  I  darted though the kitchen, out the back door and ran, still cautiously down the hill. 

In my mind I had just gotten into the lake when Aunt Patty called for dinner.  Clearly we’d been in the water plenty long enough because all of us had pruned fingers and toes. With towels wrapped around our waists and dripping wet hair we lined up at the outdoor fireplace for our hot dogs and hamburgers.  Down the center of the long continuous picnic tables, sat potato salad, macaroni salad, condiments and green jello.  
Around the table were multiple generations, there was unconditional love, devotion, tradition, and dedication to each other.  

At the tender age of 10, what happened each Sunday at the lake was just common place, it was just what we did.  Now 35 years later, I see it as so much more.  The dedication my family had and has to each other is exceptional.  At the end of 2012 we closed the chapter on one generation, yet the newest one is continually growing. I watch my Aunts, Uncles and parents working hard to keep traditions alive, to keep us connected.  A task that in today’s world, when we rarely slow down enough to eat let alone spend time with family, is an enormous feat.  

I probably don’t tell my parents, my aunts and my uncles nearly enough how much I appreciate and cherish their efforts.  They in my mind they are not ordinary, but truly the definition of extraordinary.  When the time comes that they need to pass the torch, we will be ready to accept it.  To set a table with delectable, traditional foods down the center surrounded by that unconditional love, devotion, traditions and the dedication that I have been taught.  

I imagine there is a lake in heaven, where a circle of lawn chairs sits off to the side.  This Christmas there isn’t a ball game playing, rather a play by play of Christmas Eve events at my Aunt Trudy’s.  Grammy is clapping as the kids sing Christmas Carols, while Uncle Benny and Aunt Mary are leaning in to hear who is playing Santa this year.  Grandpa is grinning ear to ear knowing his gingerbread men are still alive and well, while Uncle Steve and Uncle Stanley are keeping tabs on which kids are Red Sox fans.  Uncle Jimmy throws his head back laughing as he listens to Amy or Christen’s little ones screaming because Santa is a little scary to them this year. 

Merry Christmas ..... here’s to unconditional love, devotion, tradition and dedication.  

My Favorite Things …. 2013

The garlands are dusted with snow, the tree is ... well ... not decorated but the lights are on it!  My cookbooks are stacked & the grocery list is made. 

I'm thinking, "Christmas Spirit.  Yep, I'm getting there!" Then I remember, none, that's nada, zlicho .... of my Christmas shopping is done. 

My overly organized, planned friends and family are in sheer panic mode for me right now.  To the average on looker, I seem surprisingly calm.  Reality check .... I'm a little panicked!   

Right now I need Maria to coming running through the hills singing My Favorite Things .... It's always amazing to me that this song, the message and the distraction of thinking and remembering some of my treasured things ... can so easily lighten my mood.  

The corners of my mouth are turning up as I begin to think about sharing with you this years list of my favorite things.  Enjoy!

CT River Candles 

CT River Candles 

I love candles.  The soft glow, the dancing light, the scents .... 

Brenda of CT River Candles creates simple soy wonders in fragrances that are light and refreshing.  Soy candles don't create those nasty toxins that paraffin candles do, they burn longer and are made from the renewable source of soy beans.  

Its easy to see why these candles are on my Favorite Things list this Holiday Season.  Check Brenda out, follow her fun little blog with scent updates, candle care and more... I promise you won't be disappointed!  

Kims Cottage Confections

I just think this is SO cool! (giggle)

O.M.G. Love these!

Kim is literally in my backyard.  Right now I can look over my shoulder and see her bakery windows glowing!  In the warmer months, when the smell of baked goods seep up the hill, I have to chain myself to my Studio so I don't wander down for a treat or two!  

This year Kim is back on my Favorite Things list with two items!  First with chocolate truffles, who doesn't love chocolate?!  I ordered these up for a VIP event this fall and they were an amazing hit!  , my absolute favorite new item from her shop are her sugar cookies frosted with images!  I had her magically embed my holiday logo to share with clients! 

If you didn't get out to visit Kim last year for her white chocolate covered popcorn, can't imagine why you didn't, check her out this year, you're never too far from Kim's Cottage Confections she'll ship anywhere! 

Serenity Goat Milk Soaps

Isn't this molded soap just so neat?

This one is near and dear to my heart.  Aleta & John of Serenity Goat Milk Soaps have created something very special.  For full disclosure, I'm a little bias about my love for these soaps, after all Aleta & John are family! These soaps are crafted here in Durham at my family homestead, with milk from my sisters farm, Utter Works. This newly established company is off to a great start!  Serenity is offering  11 marvelous scents, and of course an unscented oatmeal option. I'm totally over the moon for the molded soaps, the doe & kid is my favorite.  

Simply packaged, these soaps make great hostess gifts, stocking stuffers and grab bag shares!  Go ahead, give them a try.  I have a bar at every sink .... 

In O'Scents of Madison 

perfect ….. 

The vivacious, exuberant, and spirited Dyan of In O'Scents of Madison is once again on my Favorite Things list this year.  This time of year when the cold chills me to the bone and the dry air draws every ounce of moisture from my skin, I turn to Dyan for remedies!  I just love her bath tea bags, I draw a steamy bath, let one of her scented bags seep for a few moments then slide in.  The aroma swirls around my head, my bones thaw and all is well.  Just before I'm climbing into bed (where my linens have been graced with Dyan's Lavendar Linen Spray)  and I start dreaming of sugar plumbs dancing in my head, I apply one of Dyan's lotions, and all is well. 

Dyan customizes beautiful gift packages, they are the perfect way to remember that someone special this holiday season. 

When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad……

Enjoy!

Move over Big Box Stores ....

I don’t make it a secret I love my small town of Durham.  My town offers so many hidden treasures that are mistakenly overlooked! This week I’ve taken on the task of being Durham’s Personal Shopper. Coming up on Saturday December 7th, The Durham  Economic Development Commission is continuing its commitment to small businesses with a Holiday Stroll Event.  As your personal shopper, I will be highlighting various businesses with some of my fabulous finds! See if I found the perfect gift for you, after all doesn’t everyone want to be that ultimate gift giver? 

Durham Healthmart Pharmacy

321 Main Street 
860.349.3478

A little hometown lovin'
Nothing like coffee or tea in a Durham Mug!

Carol & Walters Holiday gift to you!
With Purchases over $25.00*

Carol & Walter are so much more than your local stop for prescriptions.  Over the years I’ve found some great gifts for clients, friends and family here!  Carol has a very unique array of gifts, something for everyone.  I personally love their Durham pottery, it has been a perfect way for me to share a piece of Durham with friends and family! Following along the theme of where I'm from, Carol offers an array of sweatshirts & t-shirts from Durham and of course UConn!  
Make sure you stop in Saturday, Carol has a gift for you too.  For a minimum purchase of $25.00 (*excluding rx's) receive a snazzy scarf, after last years winter who couldn't use an extra scarf?  

Colors of the Wind

360 Main Street 

860.788.2514

The perfect base for a hostess gift! 

Janet is celebrating her first Anniversary! This is an unique consignment shop, highlighting not only gently used items on consignment but also, beautifully handcrafted items. I had a lovely time gathering together a grouping to create a beautiful gift basket with Janet.  I'm just over the moon for the handmade bowls shown here on the right. These free form beauties are safe for use with food and dishwasher safe!  I paired the bowl with a set of wine glasses, and hand made chocolates.  Who can resist chocolate!  I finished the grouping off with handwoven dishtowels, cinnamon dipped candles and wallah, I have a beautiful base to a perfect hostess gift.  Make sure you stop by and visit Colors of the Wind Saturday  have a cupcake and wish Janet another year of successes!

Wild Wisteria 

354 Main Street
860.349.1550

Sonoma gifts ... made in the USA 

Tammy is a wizard! If you haven't made your way into her shop you are missing out on one of Durham's finest establishments.  Every nook and cranny is filled with a little something special. Her wreaths and arrangements are truly works of art that are the perfect complement to many homes, pair these with some of her amazing accessories, you'll find it hard to walk out without bags of treasures.

Pay attention gentlemen if you're wondering how to wow the ladies in your life, look no further! Sonoma Lavender, give her the rare opportunity to paper herself! After a long day, these soothing aromatic neck pillows, spa masks, spa slipper or heat wraps will be the gift that keeps on giving.  Here's my favorite part .... all made in the USA.
While your at Tammy's shop ask her about 'poo-porri' ... it's my one of my favorite find (giggle!)

Watch for more great shopping ideas as the week continues .... 

Move over Big Box Stores!