Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons

Homespun Alchemy ™: Creative Re~Use and Garden Magic...Sort of.

2012-01-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

We're sprouting new ideas all the time...."

-Richard Cook

Click HERE for full post!

Abundant Wishes for a Happy and Blessed New Year to All! xxx000xxx

2012-01-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to read post.

Frugal Luxuries for the Freezer and...I'll be on a Radio Show Today (Saturday)...Call Me!

2011-12-29T21:04:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to read full post!

OH!!! I almost forgot to tell you, tomorrow, Friday (12/30/11) and Saturday (12/31/11) I'll be a guest on Positive Living Radio show(s)!!! I would just love it if you could call in and talk with us! Here's the exact information about the shows that I stole from Patricia's website.

Listen to Tracey McBride on Patricia Raskin Positive Living on Saturday December 31st 3:30-4:00PM ET on 630WPRO AM & 99.7 FM. Listeners can call in to the show at (401) 438-W-P-R-O (401-438-9776) or toll free at 1 (800) 321-W-P-R-O (1-800-321-9776) and listen live on www.630wpro.com.

Join nationally recognized multi-media radio talk show host and award winning producer Patricia Raskin, as she interviews Tracey McBride, author of Frugal Luxuries: Simple Pleasures to Enhance Your Life and Comfort Your Soul and Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate the Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity--on Any Income. Chicago Tribune wrote "Think of Tracey McBride as the Martha Stewart of the cheapskate set". She had delighted thousands by elevating the skill of living frugally to an art form. Tracey will discuss cost-effective ways to bring in the new year with beauty and joy.

Kindling a Simple Christmas

2011-12-22T22:21:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling very simple this Christmas...

Click HERE to read the full post.

Day Four: Thanksgiving Progressive Dinner~Blog Style~Remains of a Thanksgiving Feast

2011-11-06T10:38:00.000-08:00

Remains of a Thanksgiving Feast: Classic Turkey~Noodle Soup!
Click HERE to read the entire post!

Autumnal Delights...

2010-10-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

To see the full post please click...HERE !

Images: Rachel Whiting

It's Never Too Early...More Gift Pantry™ Ideas

2010-10-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

Simple wreaths from old garlands...

Nordic gift~sacks from pillowcases or fabric scraps...

Simplify gift wrapping...use solid color wrapping paper (or tissue paper) and a basic ribbon in a complementary color to create a lovely result...PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW MANY MORE IDEAS FOR STOCKING YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT PANTRYTM ...

Image Source

Meet Homespun Alchemist (tm)...Manuela!

2010-09-22T11:05:00.001-07:00

Click HERE to learn more about Homespun Alchemist, Manuela!

What is a Homespun Alchemist (tm)?

2010-08-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

Please enjoy this occasional feature in which we highlight...

Homespun Alchemists!!!

What is a Homespun Alchemist (tm)? They are Kindred Spirits who demonstrate the uncanny abilities to ...

Make Something From Nothing (tm)

(well...almost nothing!).

Today we'll visit THIS INSPIRING POST written by Terri of the PennyAnn Poundwise blog. In it she extents a charming glimpse into her pretty, practical world of lovely living within a limited budget. I highly recommend reading it as she generously shares a plethora of her secrets for making something from nothing...or very little.

I found it to be pure magic and, of course, was very compelled to share it here...with all of you kind kindred spirits...where I know it'll be appreciated.

Love and good thought to all.

Warmly,

Tracey and Family

x0x

~~~~~~

"The New Can~Do Spirit"...

2010-08-19T08:52:00.001-07:00

Recently we wrote HERE about frugal luxuries found in farm~stand bounty.

Imagine our delight when we found THIS very interesting and useful article in the LA Times reporting on the resurgence of the oft forgotten/lost skill of putting~food~by for future meals. It offers some valuable links to canning blogs that I thoroughly enjoyed reading...especially as I'm trying to preserve the bounty of the season in my own kitchen as well!

Hope you find it as interesting and useful as I!

Love and good thoughts to all.

Warmly,

Tracey and Family

x0x

P.S. If you haven't seen our simple secret for preserving fresh tomatoes click HERE!

Summer Luxuries...DIY S'Mores Kits for Concerts in the Park

2010-07-17T12:46:00.001-07:00

DIY S'Mores Kits

~~~~~~

Before...
after.

Images: Project Wedding

Every summer we meet friends and neighbors at our local marina and enjoy the 100 year tradition of city~sponsored concerts in the park. It's a frugal pleasure that we all look forward to and enjoy.

One of the little luxuries we often treat ourselves to...during the evenings of music,food and friends...is melting marshmallows over votive candles (very carefully, of course :) and using them to build s'mores! Last week, I promised some of the children that they could count on me to bring the s'mores fixing's for our next concert!

When browsing online this morning I came across these charming little gift~boxed~s'mores~kits from Project Wedding! Of course I fell in love with the way they took these very simple ingredients (see image #2) and repackaged them into charming gift/kits for easy sharing...and as my mind was on the idea of sharing I was compelled to post them here to share with all of you kind souls!!!

If you want to read detailed instructions and see more images be sure to visit HERE!
http://www.projectwedding.com/wedding-ideas/diy-s-mores-kits

Hope you're enjoying a lovely weekend...and summer.

Love and good thoughts to all.

Warmly,

Tracey and Family

x0x

soothing images of summer gardens...

2010-07-06T12:18:00.001-07:00

...never enough lovely images and inspiration from the talented photography of Christine Bauer!!!

(You may also enjoy our other posts featuring Christine Bauer's work...see HERE and HERE.)

Images:Sources

Everything's Coming Up Roses...

2010-07-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

...see more rose~y images here !

2010-05-07T10:45:00.001-07:00

Frugal Luxuries

Stocking the Spring Gift Pantry

2010-04-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

"Necessity never made a good bargain."

~~Benjamin Franklin

~~~~~~

Click below to see how we're...

Working Ahead of Need: Preparing for the Holidays All Year Round

Salt of the Earth...

2010-04-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to see what we're doing with old salt shakers and pregnant onions!!!

Rummaging Up Emblems of Spring

2010-03-27T21:38:00.001-07:00

Please click HERE for more Rummaged~Up Emblems of Spring!

Disclosing Secrets...Magic Mottos..."Making Something From Nothing" tm

2010-03-19T11:42:00.001-07:00

I have a little secret...actually it's not really a secret...I just haven't written about it on these blogs yet. Today, then, is the day I will tell you my little story.

Please click HERE to continue.

We've Been Trying to Create a Bit of Order from Chaos...

2010-03-16T08:51:00.001-07:00

To see a little more... please click HERE !

Lace Garden Fence

2010-02-16T09:00:00.001-08:00

Our creative Kindred Spirit, Cindy McNatt, over at...

Dirt du Jour

has an amazing post (and links) for

dressing up a utilitarian chain link fence!

I was so charmed with the concept

I had to share it with you!

A Happy Valentine Wish

2010-02-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

WISHING YOU LOVE ON VALENTINE'S DAY & ALWAYS.

Fragments of Love and Loveliness

2010-02-10T17:59:00.001-08:00

~~~~~~

To see more click HERE.

Do You Use "The Movie Watching Technique" to Get Things Done?

2010-02-05T12:24:00.000-08:00

Do you use "The Movie Watching Technique" to get things done?

We do!

Click HERE to see what those vintage Valentines inspired...

as we watched the Audrey Hepburn classic movie

Sabrina!

Ephemera...Love...Inspiration

2010-01-20T17:09:00.000-08:00

The rain has been pelting down all afternoon!

As I rummaged through my long~time collection of vintage Valentines

I am inspired to make three or four of my own...

using material from my brimming box of recycled paper,

ribbon and doily scraps.

These are a few of my favorites...

I think I'll borrow the doily and silhouette motif to start with!

~~~~~~

Are you making Valentines this year?

How about envelopes?

Kindling More Light...

2010-01-09T16:11:00.001-08:00

Still inspired by light...

candles...

and ordinary things...

we continue to kindle bright ideas !!

Click HERE to see more photos!

Inspiration to Illumination: More About Candlelight Graces and Winter Luxuries

2010-01-08T09:54:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I posted about these Winter Luxuries & Candlelight Graces

on our Frugal Luxuries blog 

I made a promise to tell you more about them...

from  Inspiration to  Illumination!

Here's how this idea was born out.

~~~~~~~~~

I was rummaging through my tea cupboard

looking for ways to bring light to an ordinary day...

when I spied these teacups.  (Below)

Note: I sought out cracked and chipped cups for this little project.

I still had the tart pans in mind from my

Magic Mason Jar project a few days ago...

(see post below)

I thought it would be fun to see if the tart pans would work well

in conjunction with the tea cups...

and came up with this look (below).

A tea cup atop a vintage tart pan.

I perched it on this log~slice that Mike had cut for me a few months

ago for our Thanksgiving buffet table.

(By the way, if you haven't already,

you need to see all the creative

things Clarice at "Storybook Woods"

does with these little log slices.)

I then began thinking about some crystal coasters I had

in my craft pantry (see below)

and began playing around to see how they looked with the teacups.

When I put them beneath the cups,

as with the tart pan above,

they too imparted a romantic, pedestal-ed look!

I then took out my Dollar Store Candles

and the Earthquake Wax/Adhesive Stick~Em Putty

and rolled little bits of it into tiny balls and

tucked them inside the center of the teacups...

firmly pressing my candles atop the putty until they were quite secure.

This is what makes the candles stand upright!  

A Note of Caution:

While we've been doing this in our kitchen for years

(using all manner of holder) with no problems,

I wouldn't advise you to leave any candle unattended...

especially wispy yet charming little lights like these.

Even still,

they are lovely on the table during a meal

and they brighten~up a dark kitchen while I'm cleaning and/or cooking

...and add charm when the girls and I are

sharing a story and a pot of tea!

Here's a closer look a the tea cup atop the crystal pedestal

(formerly known as a crystal coaster).

If you'd like to see the original post click HERE!

De Mystifying the January Gift Pantry TM

2010-01-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

Understanding the Gift Pantry TM

"The only thing we ever have is what we give away."

~~Ginsberg

The Gift Pantry TM (along with your year~round Christmas planning guide) may become your most valuable tool for celebrating each phase of the year in a joyous, creative, simple fashion.

For those of you unfamiliar with the concept, the Gift Pantry is a collection of gifts and packaging materials~~homemade, home grown and/or purchased~~kept readily available for future use.

By stocking a Gift Pantry year~round you....will save time as well as money. Most importantly, a Gift Pantry greatly contributes to your peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivals of the seasons.

 Excerpt taken from our book, "Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons," published by Bantam Books, NY, NY, 2000.

~~~~~~

Click Here to see more photos and learn how to make these...

Wondrous...

Magic Mason Jars

filled with (potential) light!

They are also charming when used for organizing and storage!

Growing Dinner: Looking Ahead to the Spring Garden

2010-01-02T16:05:00.000-08:00

Photo: Terrain

My wish is that you are enjoying the new year thus far!

I am already looking ahead to spring...

and found this wondrously interesting article...

filled with homespun advice and practical information on

Growing Dinner!

I thought you might find it useful & interesting as well!

Please click below to learn more:

Garden-variety meals: Grow your own organic veggies, fruits and even nuts - South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Frugal Luxuries: Edible Wreaths From Nature's Bounty

2009-12-13T16:53:00.000-08:00

Edible Wreaths

I made these wreaths for pennies

using dried Rosemary and Pepper berries

Rosemary bush from my Dad's house.

Pepper berries growing on my dad's pepper tree.

...snipped from my father's garden

Rosemary before I cut it into smaller pieces to make bundles for the wreath

After I made the Rosemary bundles (left) I tucked in a spring of pepper berries then tied it together with raffia.

...and wrapped into little bundles.

Dehydrated limes and peppers...

bought from a local family~farm~stand.

Limes, hand sliced and put in our dehydrator to dry over night. Notice the deep burgundy color?
It starts out green...so amazing!!

The peppers were from the same stand for one dollar per bag.
Dehydrate them over night and all peppers will turn a very dark red (even the green ones).

Add a strand or two of wire...

a large darning needle

...a flutter of raffia

and you have the ingredients for creating lovely,

edible wreaths.

~~~~~~~

Give one as a gift unto itself

or add a wreath to enhance a kitchen~themed gift basket.

Or... keep one for yourself... to hang in your kitchen.

Snip off a bit of rosemary or hot pepper to add to a favorite recipe.

They will last for years...

but the Rosemary does tend to shed a bit as it dries.

OH...

don't forget to put on your favorite holiday movie

as your strand your produce into wreaths!!

Brita's Old Town Garden... The Lion~Cut ... and... "It's a Wonderful Life"

2009-12-12T18:04:00.000-08:00

Last week...

Rosie, Katie and I decided to visit our local nursery...

Brita's Old Town Gardens...

to choose our Christmas tree!

As we walked into to this charming little nursery...

the girls spied a most adorable little creature.

I moved closer to see who they were fussing over and saw this furry face...

looking quizzically up at me.

I took a few minutes of my own to coo and cuddle this charming furry creature.

His owner said he was a Pomeranian (usually very fluffy dogs) who had been given...

a Lion~Cut... which... in my opinion... flattered him immensely!!

After tearing ourselves away we moved on to choose a tree

...and admire the paper~whites, Poinsettias and topiaries along the way.

We wandered through their forest of freshly cut trees

...only to discover an overlooked antique store

hidden in a little building behind the nursery!

This red door with it's festive wreath peeked out at us from the greenery.

A lucky Calico kitten scrambled by...

at our feet.

After a bit of musing (and some measuring)

we chose our tree.

Opting for a delivery later in the day...

we made our way towards home.

Driving away...

a few blocks down from the Old Town Gardens...

we spied something...

Could I be reading the marquee correctly??

My very favorite Holiday movie was playing at the Old Bay Theatre...

The last showing of the year was the very next night!!

At 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday...

Mike, Rosie, Katie, some friends and I gathered

to enjoy a BIG SCREEN viewing of Frank Capra's miraculous movie...

"It's a Wonderful Life."

We laughed...

we cried...

we cheered...

we clapped and yelped applause.

It was a wonderful ending to a wonderful couple of days.

Wish you could have joined us.

Warmly,
Tracey and Family
xxxoooxxx

~~~~~~~

The Frugal Luxuries Philosophy of Gift~Giving and 8 Gift~Giving Ideas With Frugality in Mind

2009-12-10T10:13:00.000-08:00

The Frugal Luxuries Philosophy of Gift~Giving

The Season For Saving:

8 Gift Ideas With Frugality In Mind.

The following is an excerpt from Middletown Transcript.

"The holiday season is upon us, but with the continuing concerns about the economy, many people are looking for ways to cut costs when it comes to gift-giving. Tracey McBride, a frugality expert and author of several books, including “Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons,” says the key to not overspending is to plan ahead and develop a budget. Put a lot of thought into your gift-giving instead of focusing on spending a specific amount. Here are her ideas for practical, inexpensive gifts for the holiday season:

Gift baskets
Rather than buying an expensive gift basket at the mall, make your own, developed around a theme. For a “breakfast basket,” buy a basket at the dollar store and shred paper for the filling. Buy pancake mix and package it in a pretty bag. Cook your own syrup (water, sugar and flavoring) and bottle it in a jar. Add inexpensive plates and bowls and a mixing spoon. For a fruit basket, fill a crate with local, in-season produce and a few pieces of chocolate.

Sweet treats
Buy apothecary jars and fill them with store-bought or homemade treats. You can buy chocolate, caramels or candies in bulk, or make goodies such as peanut brittle or caramel corn.

Tea and coffee
Take an old cigar box and paint it white (or another color of your choosing). Buy a variety of tea bags at the grocery store and repackage them in the cigar box. You can also include a couple of tea cups or a tea kettle. Similarly, for coffee lovers you can pair coffee beans (which you can buy in bulk at a discount store) with a couple of mugs and a few chocolates.

Plants and herbs
You can buy plants, bulbs and herbs at a garden supply store. Replant them in tumblers, which can be found for less than $1. Package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon.

Family photos
Take treasured photos to a copy store and get them reprinted on high-quality paper. Buy inexpensive frames at a discount store. You can also compile favorite photos in a nice album.

Second-hand clothes
Head to a consignment store to buy clothes, which can work especially well for the kids on your list. Children’s clothes are often barely, if ever, worn. McBride also suggests shopping on eBay or Etsy.com. She buys her daughter’s favorite Juicy Couture hoodies (which retail for about $100) on eBay for an average of $20 each. She’s also used eBay for electronics and American Girl accessories.

Recipe book
Gather your family’s or your friends’ favorite recipes and compile them in a recipe book. This can be done inexpensively if you print the recipes out from your computer or write them out and put them in a recipe box. Make your gift recipient’s favorite dish and give the food and book at the same time.

Regift family heirlooms
While some would consider regifting to be in poor taste, McBride says regifting with thought can be extremely heartfelt. One of her most treasured gifts was when her parents gave her their silver tea set for the holidays. If you’ve thought of passing down a family heirloom, the holidays are the time to do it.

TIP: If you tend to overspend on your kids, McBride recommends setting a price limit for each child. Find out each child’s “must-have” gift, buy it, and use only the leftover money in that child’s budget for the other gifts. Most of all, be creative. McBride says learning to give frugally is a complete change in mindset, but giving is more fun and easy once you shift your perspective.

To read more, please click the link below.
The season for saving: 8 gift ideas with frugality in mind - Middletown, DE - Middletown Transcript

Holiday Budgeting

2009-11-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

Holiday Budgeting

"You can't appreciate home till you've left it,

money till it's spent..."
--O. Henry

Today, gift-giving during the winter holidays is practically mandatory -- so much so that I am reminded of the story regarding the Roman emperor Caligula. It is said that one New Year’s Day, he announced he would stand on his veranda to receive gifts of money -- if the amount did not satisfy him, the giver was publicly shamed. Why is it that this attitude has been somewhat preserved over the centuries?

To those of you who dread opening the mail after the holidays, due to the abundance of bills you have accumulated -- you are not alone. To help keep your holiday bills in check consider implementing the following strategies.

Read more in this iVillage article & excerpt from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Holiday Budgeting

Lazy Bee Farm & A Virtual Tea Party

2009-11-21T17:45:00.000-08:00

Matty, at
Lazy Bee Farm
is having a virtual tea party today!

KINDNESS

2009-11-12T08:48:00.000-08:00

" Kindness is a language...

which the deaf can hear...

and the blind can see."

--Mark Twain

===

Hello to all kind-kindred souls!

We've had a bit of a computer problem these past days...

just now getting things sorted out!

Hoping to post more very soon!

Sending out very Good thoughts to you all, as always.

xox
Tracey
x0x

Style Me Pretty - The Ultimate Wedding Blog

2009-11-04T15:32:00.000-08:00

Photo: Style Me Pretty

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When visiting my friend Charmaine's lovely blog...

Beautiful Things To Share

I discovered this charming wedding blog called

Style Me Pretty

We're not planning a wedding any time soon..even still...

the photographs and ideas are too lovely

not to share with you!

(Thank you Charmaine!)

2009-11-02T15:46:00.001-08:00

A very Warm...

Thank You...

to each of you kindred souls who entered the Giveaway!!

It is a pleasure to mingle minds with you !

In fact, it's been so much fun...

Look for another Giveaway very soon!!

Congratulations to Kath...
you were randomly chosen as the winner of Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons !

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P.S. Click HERE to learn the winner for Frugal Luxuries!

CrazyBusy Mama! (Dot Calm) » A Few Quick, Frugal, and Fun (and Very Last-Minute) Halloween Ideas

2009-10-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

Art: Beautiful Things To Share

Need Last Minute Halloween Ideas?

A Frugal Costume...Quick?

====

For money-saving, last minute tips

(and a fun story!)...

visit

Crazy Busy Mama! (Dot Calm)

To get there just click the link below!

CrazyBusy Mama! (Dot Calm) » A Few Quick, Frugal, and Fun (and Very Last-Minute) Halloween Ideas

An Upcycled Christmas - PSFK

2009-10-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

Photo: PSFK.com

No one has to tell Frugalites like you and me that

Christmas gift-giving needn't be about spending lots of money

and buying the latest hot trend!

That being said,

it seems that our philosophy

may be...

catching on!

Folksy (a kind of UK based Etsy)

and Sue Ryder Care (a health care charity) are running a competition

called Upcycle Christmas.

The goal of the contest is to

transform second hand goods into

fresh new creations suitable for holiday gift-giving.

-------

While this competition is geared toward (but not limited to)

those living in the UK,

it's lovely to know that there is a thought-shift taking place.

Who knows...

Perhaps Etsy will be next?!!

-------

If you would like to learn more please click the link below:

An Upcycled Christmas - PSFK

'Tis the Season for Another Book Give-Away!!

2009-10-23T06:45:00.001-07:00

Enter to win by subscribing to this blog and leaving a comment below (it needn't be long :)!

If you care to share a favorite holiday idea or two, we LOVE LOVE LOVE to read them, as always.

P.S. We're also giving away our first volume of Frugal Luxuries
on our other blog--just click HERE to see how easy it is to enter that one too!

NOTE!

Please Feel free to... enter BOTH contests!!

This was my intention when posting them at the same time (doubles your chances to win!)!!

also...

We will be choosing our winners NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST and announcing them on the 2nd!!

Oh... Just...One more thing...

Please know that you're more than welcome to LINK to this page (or any pages on the blogs)!! We appreciate your sharing, support and kindnesses very much. x0x

Celebrate Holidays with Elegance & Simplicity -- On Any Budget

2009-10-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Gracious Moments

"To invite a person into your house is to take charge of his happiness

so long as he is under your roof."

--Samuel Johnson

The ancient Roman philosopher Seneca

set a table of humble yet delicious foods before his friends

and asked...

"When shall we live if not now?"

---

Do not wait for that longed-for

someday to savor the blessings of Celebration.

---

The house need not be perfectly decorated or tidy...

the china...

& silver

need not match...

the foods do not have to be grand or expensive.

=======

All that is necessary to pleasantly enjoy the company of family and friends is to...

Care.

=======

This affection will be made visible

in thoughtfully prepared foods presented in a warm and inviting setting.

The text above are excerpts borrowed from the books Frugal Luxuries, 1997, Bantam Books, NY

and Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, 2000, Bantam Books, NY. Written by Tracey McBride.

===

FREE Printable Pumpkin Stencils...

2009-10-17T07:47:00.001-07:00

BHG
======

Better Homes and Gardens site is offering Free Printable Pumpkin Stencils!!

I love the look as well as the idea behind a stenciled pumpkin!

Not only can it save time, because you don't have to cut and carve it,

a stencil simplifies the task of cooking your pumpkin

once you're finished using it as a decoration!

(It also gives the gift of time.

The nature of nature is...

once your pumpkin has been cut and carved

you will need to cook it within about 24 hours.)

We usually boil or roast our pumpkins after the autumn holidays have passed

to create our own pumpkin pack

for delicious homemade pies, pumpkin breads and cookies!

(Simply peel or pare off the painted section of skin before cooking...

we wash it off if the paint is water soluble or use a potato peeler or paring knife

if the paint is more durable.)

Use the FREE patterns to create cute -- or creepy -- pumpkins that will surprise your guests. Simply log in at BHG.com (or register -- it's free), then open the PDF pattern and print. Size the pattern on a copier if needed. Tape it to your pumpkin and poke the outline of the pattern with a pin before carving your masterpiece!

Or... do as we do and paint within the stencil to create your design,

using non toxic paint such as Tempera

(the type preschoolers use)

or...

a black magic marker!

CLICK BELOW TO CLAIM YOUR FREE STENCIL:

Holidays

(Once you're there, simply print our handy PDFs,

then size on a copier and transfer the design to your pumpkin and have fun!
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"The Pleasures of Homemaking" Book Give-Away!

2009-10-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Photo: The Pleasures of Homemaking
=======

Amazing Manuela is hosting a give-away
at her inspiring blog
The Pleasures of Homemaking

and I am honored that she chose one of my own books to be part of the give-away package!

To enter to win a copy of "Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons" and

Jonnie McCoy's fantastic and encouraging book,

"Miserly Moms"

just pop by and visit Manuela's blog and leave a little comment under

the give-away post .

While you're there,

I know you'll want to spend a lot of time browsing through

Manuela's creative and inspiring blog

but beware...

she has so many great ideas that her blog becomes addicting!!

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The Year We Had No Money For Christmas

2009-09-27T08:12:00.001-07:00

I found this inspiring little story over at TIP HERO

(another favorite resource for frugal ideas).

Please click the link below to read...

The Year We Had No Money For Christmas

---

Do you have a story...

or two...

about ways your family handled (or handles)

Christmas and the Holidays

during a very lean year?

We would be honored and blessed if you would

share them with us.

xox
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Shared via AddThis

Autumn's First Festival...

2009-09-14T13:05:00.001-07:00

Labor Day
"In all labor there is profit..."
--Proverbs

The noblest thing in the world is wise and honest labor. Labor is the powerful magician that brings order out of chaos, transforms barren deserts into thriving cities, and produces works of genius from all fields of endeavor, be it the creation of grand architecture, powerful prose, tilled and cultivated soil, a clean cottage, or a home-cooked meal.

In ancient times all, including the wealthy, labored in their own kitchens and fields. In the Bible, Abraham and his wife Sarah are early examples of the dignity found in toil. And during the infancy of the United States, George and Martha Washington, although they were quite well off financially, set fine examples for industry and frugality.

There is a dignity in all honest labor that makes it beautiful and mighty. And if we remember that all true luxuries and achievements are the result of labor, we understand that nothing great can ever be accomplished without it. Thus, the first Monday in the month of September (In the United States and Canada) has been established as a special day on which to remember and honor this worthy quality, and those souls (past, present and future) who exemplify it.

Take from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons by Tracey McBride.
Published by Bantam Books, NY, NY, 2000.

----

FYI: We originally posted this on the third of but it didn't show up until just now!

Random Acts of Kindness: The best kind of frugal luxury @ Saver Queen

2009-09-03T07:01:00.001-07:00

Photo: Saver Queen

This morning...

while thoroughly enjoying my second cup of Trader Joe's Italian roast coffee...

I took a browse through some of my favorite reads in Bloglandia

and came across Saver Queen's goose-bump evoking post...

about a mini-miracle (pun intended ;) found in a random act of kindness.

She starts by observing that...

"Living on a frugal budget means looking beyond material possessions in order to find fulfillment, inspiration and joy. The frugal life requires more attention to “natural highs” that come from natural beauty and the many joyous experiences found in simple moments.

It has also made me pause with gratitude to think of the random acts of kindness I’ve been a recipient of. There have been a few spectacular ones, but only one that really had a major impact on my life...."

Click the link BELOW to finish reading this charming, heartwarming story...

Random Acts of Kindness: The best kind of frugal luxury @ Saver Queen

Enhancing the Wardrobe: FREE Vintage Sewing Patterns

2009-08-23T12:16:00.001-07:00

Anne

over at...

Craft Gossip .com

has an amazing post today linking to a GREAT offer.

Limited time only: Free access to vintage pattern database!

Have You Ever Had A DEBT FREE Christmas... Will You Accept the Challenge?

2009-08-05T08:24:00.001-07:00

More Working (and Thinking) Ahead of Need:

I'm joining in the Debt Free Christmas Challenge hosted by Enemy of Debt! Thought you may find it useful and/or interesting as well!

Click the link below if you'd like to learn more!

Have You Ever Had A DEBT FREE Christmas, And Will You Accept My Challenge? | Enemy of Debt: Motivational Money Management

Working Ahead Of Need: Inspiration From Storybook Woods

2009-07-31T10:53:00.001-07:00

Photo courtesy of Clarice @ Storybook Woods.

Our good friend, Clarice (hi Clarice !) ...

over at Storybook Woods

has a very Inspirational

post titled...

Frugal Things I Love .

I HIGHLY recommend it to you all...

(and, no, not just because she said something nice about me in it, but that was nice too ;-) !

In it Clarice offers a host of charmingly useful ideas and...

a bevy of thoughts on how to work ahead of need...

preserving nature's summer bounty to enjoy later.

She provides some fantastic links for...

making your own...

Homemade Oil Lamps...

Simple tricks for dehydrating fresh produce (I loved her pantry trick)...

Easy ways to Grow Your Own Sprouts in a Canning Jar...

and many, many more.

I must say that I was inspired to action after my visit ...

and I hope you will be too!

Faithful HOLIDAY Budgeting... It's Not Too Early to Begin

2009-07-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

All the above photos are from Heather's Beauty That Moves Etsy Store.

Start Saving for the Holidays Now Using the...

Envelope System

Many people use the envelope system to save up the cash for their monthly bills (using money orders to pay bills that must be mailed and possibly tracked).

Heather, over at the inspiring blog...

"Beauty That Moves " has charmingly practical fabric envelopes for sale in her Etsy store.

While we are proponents of the monthly envelope system, I find it especially useful when saving for the often cash strapped winter holidays.

====

Faithful Budgeting
Below is an excerpt taken from "Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons," Bantam Books, NY, 2000

"One of my favorite ways to organize my everyday and holiday expenses is to establish an envelope system. This is done by designating an envelope for each person on my holiday gift-giving list. On the outside of the envelope I write the person's name, the amount I have budgeted to spend on him or her, and any gift ideas that I might have in mind for the particular individual. Inside the envelope I put aside a designated amount to spend on that individual (and continue over the months until I've saved up enough). When I do my holiday gift shopping, I take the cash-filled envelopes (and no credit cards) and spend only what I have budgeted and put inside the envelopes."

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Box of Lettuce in Origami Pots...

2009-07-27T06:29:00.001-07:00

Box of lettuce
Originally uploaded by smallgreengarden

Here is a picture of those Origami Pots (see post below) made from recycled paper bags instead of newsprint!

If you are small space gardening, you will be inspired by Kate's blog...

www.smallgreengarden.com

...she does amazing things with very little!

Gardens are so miraculous...don't you think?

YouTube - How to Make Origami Pots for Garden Seedlings

2009-07-27T06:12:00.001-07:00

YouTube - How to Make Origami Pots for Garden Seedlings

Shared via AddThis

The Secret Stones: A Budget Gardening Tale

2009-07-14T09:06:00.001-07:00

Our friend, Cindy McNatt, over at the inspiring blog...

Dirt du Jour

tells us the SIMPLE SECRET behind these concrete "STONES".

"These concrete “stones” are easy to make and work beautifully at terracing a slope.

Here is how the gardener did it: She stacked bags of dry concrete in a row, then wet down the bags for a week or until the concrete hardened. Once hard, she tore off the paper wrapping.
Then she stacked another row on top of the first, wetting the second row of concrete bags, waited for the concrete to harden and then removed the paper - and so on until she had her vegetables beds at a height that worked for her.

Easy. Cheap. Not bad looking, and entirely doable."

------------

Click the link below to visit Cindy's amazing blog and learn a multitude of gardening secrets and wisdoms.

Dirt Du Jour: A gardening community of passionate plant people in Southern California

Nurturning a Pioneer Spirit: De Mystifying Food Canning

2009-06-29T09:33:00.003-07:00

Click HERE to learn more about the mundane miracle of home food canning!

FREE TOMATO SEEDS...Seed saving instructions for beginners.

2009-06-18T14:15:00.001-07:00

Wresta

Recently, I've been saving seeds...culling them from the fruit and vegetables we eat.

What could be more miraculous??

It is also surprisingly simple.

Now is the season to begin....

gathering, processing and saving seeds for next year's frugal and green garden.

I have found this great site that walks me through the process...

Seed saving instructions for beginners.

I began with tomatoes, but it also offers step-by-step instruction on gathering seeds...from cucumbers and cantalope to Morning Glories! I've found it a very valuable reference site!

Swedish Bride

2009-06-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

A Swedish Bridal Suite...

a Home-Crowned Queen.... Golden Silence... Gilded Lanterns... Scented Cones...

Remnants of a bride's special day litter the sweetest of suites...

Tokens of good thoughts and love dangle for all to see & be reminded of...

Love...

the reason for all else to exist.
------

Oh my goodness,

I fell in love with this pictorial by Swedish Stylist, Eva Lindh.

The pictures told a story all their own...

in need of nothing except for romantics & dreamers...

like us...

to focus on them...

to give them a voice...

to appreciate their loveliness...

to REVEL in the frugal luxury of dreams.

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A PERSONAL COMPUTER IN A VASE? IT DOES COMPUTE!

2009-06-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

If you're budget and/or house is too small for a new home office or library....

you may want to look at this prototype for a PC in an attractive vase!

Years ago, we transformed a corner of our tiny living room into an office...

via a computer armoire.

In the near future, no furniture necessary...

just change the look of your PC!

Gizmag has covered some unusual gadgets over the years,

but a computer hidden in a vase?

This might sound like a joke, but it actually makes sense when you consider...

how digital content and media have grown...

the once-humble PC is arguably more at home in the living room...

than the study.

Currently it's in the prototype stage...

but check HERE for availability in the near future!

In Praise of the Backyard Clothesline

2009-05-19T12:20:00.001-07:00

Vintage

"Let me be a little kinder,
Let me be a little blinder
To the faults of those around me,
Let me praise a little more."
--Edgar A. Guest, "A Creed"

-------

A Kindred Spirit Letter

Dear Tracey,

It began when we were newlyweds renting a four-room apartment in Birdtown--a small old section of rental homes in Lakewood. The laundromat was blocks away. Although our apartment was tiny, we enjoyed a long, open-air balcony. When our budget was tight, we would launder our clothes in the bathtub and hang them to dry on a makeshift clothesline out on the balcony.

Eventually we graduated to our own home on the near west side of Cleveland. Over the years we acquired the luxuries of a washer, dryer, dishwasher, microwave and the like. We were also proud owners of a postage-stamp-size back yard. To make life complete, we soon were the parents of three small children.

Despite all of our modern conveniences, I still love the idea of old clotheslines. My neighbor--a Yugoslavian grandmother--has a bright yellow one. All summer long there is either a hand-stitched quilt or a pretty rug drying on it. Inspired by her, I crisscrossed four long lines from our garage to our house and bought bags of wooden clothespins.

Cleveland is a funny place to have a clothesline, I think. It can be cloudy almost to the point of hearing the rumble of thunderstorms--but I will still hang up a load of laundry despite the threat of rain. Nine times out of ten the load will dry without any rain falling. Why go to all that trouble and bother? There are many reasons. For one, I know I am saving money and helping the environment by not running the dryer for at least half of the year, and clothes seem to dry fairly quickly outdoors. But the best reason is the satisfaction I feel after my seven-year-old daughter changes her sheets, and I hear her say at bedtime, "Mom, My pillow smells good!"

Sincerely,

Peggy West

Cleveland, Ohio

--------------------------
The letter above is an excerpt from Frugal Luxuries, published by Bantam Books, 1997.

Growing Off the Wall...

2009-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

Get Your Mind in the Gutter for Space Saving Gardening Solutions!

One of my long-time kindred spirits, Cindy McNatt, has created a lovely,

inspiring and very informative gardening blog titled...

Dirt du J0ur !

Imagine my delight when I saw this article and photograph on today's post!!

(I have the perfect wall on our southwest facing patio that will perfectly suit
a smaller version of this project!)

---

Edible Transformations TM in Under 15 Minutes!

2009-04-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

Click Here...

to see how we transformed this...

...into this!

Done in a mere 15 minutes!

At Long Last...a Winner Has Been Revealed!!

2009-04-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

"How frugal is the chariot that bears the Human soul."

--Emily Dickenson, referring to books.
------

Hello Good Souls...

A few days ago I scribbled out all your blessed names....

folded them up...

put them in a pretty crystal bowl...

and chose a name.

Dana & Daisy were chosen...

and will receive this copy of ....

"Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons"!

-------

I'd like to thank you all for your many kindnesses, support and friendship.

I am truly blessed to know you...

even though most of us have never met in the tangible world...

it is a lovely privilege to mingle minds, thoughts and lives with you...

via...

this miracle called the internet.

Good thoughts and blessings to each and every one of you.

Warmly,

Tracey

We're Giving Away "FRUGAL LUXURIES BY THE SEASONS" Book!

2009-04-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

In honor of the season of Spring, we are giving away a book...

Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons!

To enter, simply leave your Favorite Frugal Luxury for Spring in the comments section of this post! We'll choose a random winner at the beginning of next week!

You're all so very creative, I'm really excited to read your favorites!!
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Charitable Luxury...

2009-04-04T11:41:00.001-07:00

"The luxury of charity."

--Oliver Goldsmith

The following is an excerpt from "Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, by Tracey McBride, published by Bantam Books, 2000

"Should a vine expect acknowledgment for bearing a bunch of grapes...do bees create honey in order to be thanked?" inquired Marcus Aurelius in the second century A.D. The question is rhetorical in nature, and provokes thought. Indeed, why should a person who has performed a deed or kindness look for gratitude? To do so seems to contradict the act."

Charity...

Luxury...

an Unexpected Gift!

Earlier this week, I spent a few happy hours helping an acquaintance complete a large task that she had volunteered to do for our children's school.
To show her appreciation for another pair of hands,
she surprised me with this charming bunch of Daffodils!

They were so pretty, I thought I would share them with you.
Have a lovely week end!

WHO... WILL BRING HOME THE VINTAGE GARDEN URN? FIND OUT NOW...

2009-04-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

"Verily great grace may go with a little gift"
--Theocritus

-------

WHO... WILL BRING HOME THIS VINTAGE GARDEN URN?

To discover the answer...CLICK HERE
--------------

WIN THIS EASTER-EGG-FILLED-WHITE-IRON-URN

2009-03-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

TO ENTER…

JUST CLICK HERE and it will pop you on over to...

FRUGAL LUXURIES: KINDRED SPIRITS LETTERS & RESOURCES BLOG!

Easter Fancies: Nesting Instincts of Good Fortune & Prosperity

2009-03-20T15:34:00.001-07:00

Another way to enjoy decoupaged eggshell art.

-------

Click HERE to learn how to make these enchanting eggs from recycled eggshell.

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Below is an excerpt from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, by Tracey McBride;
published by Bantam Books, NY, NY, 2000

Easter Fancies:

A Lucky Bird’s Nest

Bird’s nests have long been symbols of good fortune and prosperity. While it’s a rare but wonderful find to uncover a real bird’s nest to use in your spring décor, you may create your own simple, attractive nests using excelsior.

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Drawing by Alexis Larson-Gibson, taken from the book Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, by Tracey McBride;
published by Bantam Books, NY, NY, 2000.
All Rights Reserved.

Creative Recycling of the Ordinary Eggshell?

2009-03-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

To learn how easy it is to make these charmingly ornamental Easter Eggs from recycled eggshells visit Frugal Luxuries by clicking HERE.

Festivals of Spring: THE FEAST OF SAINT PATRICK!

2009-03-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

"Cead mile failte!--One hundred thousand welcomes"
--Ancient Gaelic Greeting
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Drawing by: Alexis Larson-Gibson; published in Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons
Click here to learn how to create this Irish Linen Sachet.

Happy Feast of Saint Patrick!

In the Irish countryside, March 17--the anniversary of the death of Saint Patrick--is a day of visiting relatives and friends, and a fitting occasion to sing, feast, and partake of concerts and plays honoring the patron saint of Ireland. Most towns and cities hold a large parade in honor of the day, during which everyone wears green, for the "wearin' of the green" is a celebration of the emerald green of Ireland herself, as well as a symbol of springtime.

When I was very young, my mother would celebrate Saint Patrick's Day by speaking with an Irish brogue all day, although she is an American by birth. After our traditional Saint Patrick's day dinner of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, she and my father would sip Irish coffee from shamrock-encrusted Irish crystal glasses (purchased on a visit to Ireland...before I was born) while enjoying Gaelic melodies playing on the stereo. I would lie on the floor at her feet and listen as she delighted us with amusing tales about her day posing as an Irishwoman (giggling with fun at the thought that so many people had believed her brogue to be authentic) and reminisced with my father about their long ago sojourn to that ancient isle of green.

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Excerpt above taken from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, by Tracey McBride; published by Bantam Books, NY, NY, 2000.

Celebrating Soul Mates...our Twenty-Sixth year...

2009-02-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

" A soulmate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks. When we feel safe enough to open the locks, our truest selves step out and we can be completely and honestly who we are; we can be loved for who we are and not for who we're pretending to be....Our soulmate is the one who makes life come to life."
--Richard Bach

Today...

Mike and I celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary.

February 19th 1983

Mike and I on our wedding day. 
This snapshot was taken by my best friend's father.
-------

This is a recent picture of Mike and I.
He surprised me with a gondola ride in Naples
(California...not Italy :).
-------

Some fleeting thoughts on marriage...

We saw the movie "Marley and Me" last night. Owen Wilson's character said something we don't hear very often in movies or on TV these days: When he and his wife were going through a very rough patch in their relationship an un-married friend was subtly urging the husband to leave. His character's response to this was (and I paraphrase) "...what's the matter with you man...you don't throw something like this away
...you mend it, don't end it."
---
Of, course, this obviously doesn't apply to every situation.
That being said (in my humble opinion) it is often worth the time and trouble to mend something that was once treasured and considered valuable...if the option is available. Living as we do, in a throw-away society, is it any wonder that this simple, pragmatic wisdom is often forgotten?
------------

The Taste of Memories at Frugal Luxuries Food Blog!

2009-02-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

Can Memories be Tasted?
Find out at Frugal Luxuries Food

-----
Make these special cookies for a Valentine's Day Treat for your loved ones & friends.

Creative Recycling of the Ordinary (tm) : Rosie's Baby Box

2009-01-23T06:50:00.001-08:00

"Time flies...shadows fall...love's eternal over all."

You may remember this box from our holiday gift posts...
It is made from one of Rosie's shoe boxes when she was a toddler (it is now about a dozen year's old !). The pretty paper was recycled from a gift received by Katie at the same time.

Click any picture to enlarge.

I used Mod Podge(c) to attach the paper to the box...
then put another coat over the paper to preserve it.

I covered only into the inside rim...otherwise the Mod Podge(c)
becomes sticky thus rendering the box useless for storing things...
I then attached the re-purposed ribbons & faux greenery...
using a hot glue gun (these are the originals).

Here is what it looks like from the bottom and side.

This sweet little box is now a permanent addition to our collection
of family gift boxes...it has held many items over the years... from china tea sets, porcelain dolls, necklaces and bracelets, to Dior Show mascara and Happy perfume! As it is re-used from year to year it evokes sweet memories of times past and tiny toes that once wore shoes of elfin proportions.

===

P.S. Today, I often find those same toes inside my own (not so elfin) shoes & boots!

Inaguration Day Prayer: May Your Guiding Lights Be Strong with Wisdom, Strength, Honor and Courage.

2009-01-20T10:12:00.000-08:00

"With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness for the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds,
and care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan,
to do all which may achieve and cherish
a just and lasting peace among ourselves
and with all nations."

--President Abraham Lincoln

Inagural Address, March 4, 1865

------

This is my favorite quote from one of History's most honorable and courageous figures.
---------

Another Gentle Rebellion...

2009-01-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

The Lovely Pyramid of Plates...STAYS!

Composed of enchanting English china dinner plates made by Mintons...

it makes me smile every time I go down the stairs in the morning.
------
You can see a full view of the Plate Pyramid on our blog
Frugal Luxuries.
(Look for the December 15th post.)

A Gentle Rebellion...

2009-01-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

GENTLE REBELLIONS:
Refusal to Put (some) Things Away for an Entire Year.

Perhaps it's because I'm celebratory in nature...
there are some things that I simply Refuse to Put Away...
just because the calendar tells me I must.
---------

All right, I concede that the tree had to go (sadly)...however...
the strand of wreaths on the valance STAY !

I crafted these wreaths from a simple garland & wire... I also created the cameos adorning it (them).
---
I will post an upcoming tutorial on how to make the cameos very soon. There used to be a link on the HGTV website (I made one for the Carol Duvall Show right before it went out of production...but HGTV has recently changed their site, so I'm not sure if it's still on there....I'll do a search & let you know :).

The charming, carved wooden Angel ...given to me by my dad several years ago...
also STAYS... after all... I did borrow it from my kitchen. It transformed into the perfect tree-topper for our Christmas tree (please see first picture).

Notice the wire wings!

I added my own little wreath and a touch of tulle...

Wishing... Gentle Blessings...and...Angelic Delights... to All.

Holiday Home Highlights...

2008-12-27T09:39:00.000-08:00

Rosie's Birthday Table...(more photos to come)...
the greenery is from the ferns and Olive tree growing outside our front porch...
...notice the Swedish lyre back chair...it's my very favorite...
my Grandmother was from Sweden...thus my love for pale shades & blue and white...
but not Ludafisk...pickled herring is palatable (I used to eat it when I was little...then my dad told me it hadn't been truly cooked...that stopped that ;)...

...these noble gentlemen are given herbal wreaths in honor of this festive season...


...these are a few of our vintage purses...I love to use them to house Christmas gifts...
Inside are gift cards to a favorite restaurant...bookstore...fast food place :)...
oh...I made the sign several years ago using slats from a broken (vintage) shutter...I made a basket full...then used them as toppers to embellish gifts and gift baskets that year...

Here is a view from the stair landing of our little cottage... notice the cornices above the large windows (I have a little story to tell about these--with photos--in a future post)...also... notice the herbal wreaths (I made these by cutting up a garland :)...I tied them onto a strand of...what else...tulle!  This is an old trick of mine (from our books) telling how  I used to display the children's artwork when they were young in the same manner (using painted clothes pins to hang it :).   You will find this strand with wreaths ...or ??... up in our house quite often...I don't need an excuse to embellish the ordinary day  ;)...oh...I'm also planning a future post on these...one more thing to notice...the angel wings tied (with tulle :) atop the pyramid at the center of our white, hexagonal table... I thought them sooo whimsical :).
P.S.  I forgot to take a close up photo of our wooden angel tree topper...it was a gift from my Dad several years ago.  I'll try to get a close up picture of it today or tomorrow! It looks very much like a Viking ship's Mast Head.

Holiday Reusables Article!

2008-12-24T06:14:00.000-08:00

CREATIVE RECYCLING of MEMORIES...

Leanne Italie of the Associated Press (AP) wrote a great article regarding
holiday re-usables.
See story with pictures here...

http://www.ajc.com/holiday/content/atlanta-holiday-guide/entertaining/stories/2008/12/24/after_holiday_keepsakes.html

and here...

http://www.thestar.com/article/557850

Of, course, we were very happy (and honored) to be included in this very useful collection of ideas on how to reuse ribbons and other holiday packaging from year to year. They sent a photographer to our house to illustrate how we implement re-usables in our own holiday packaging!
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Above is one of our apothecary jars filled with recycled ribbons and package toppers...

Here is a vintage English biscuit tin (from our collection)...this one holds holiday decorations (i.e., chandelier crystals)...the others are used from year to year as unique gift boxes.
Much more to come on this subject! I have a ton of detailed pictures...I loaded them onto a post last night. Sadly, it was somehow lost. If time permits today...I 'll try to reload and post them. Otherwise they may be dribbled out through the week in smaller posts (due to the holiday).
------

We send our wishes for...
A happy Christmas and blessed Holiday to all.
Love and good thoughts from...
Tracey and Family.

Re-Purposing Memories...Recycled Gift Packaging...Easy Retro Wraps...

2008-12-23T14:49:00.000-08:00

We were honored to contribute to a great Associated Press article featuring holiday re-usables. Yesterday morning, a wonderful photographer stopped by our house and took some photos to accompany the article. It's already popping up all over...here's a link if you want to take a peek!
http://www.thestar.com/article/55785

==============

As you probably know…I’ve been collecting (and re-using) ribbons and holiday gift packaging for years! In fact, I write about it in my book “Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate Holidays With Elegance and Simplicity--On Any Income," published by Bantam Books, NY, 2000. I also convert vintage linens, such as doilies and handkerchiefs, into special bows for packaging gifts (see earlier posts for more details). As well, I've long collected those colorful English biscuit tins and reuse them from year to year to hold gifts (they look especially pretty under the tree... also very frugal and easy).
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Re-purposing memories....

We've been using these hat boxes for about a dozen or so years. They nest for easy storage...

This is a small pillow case from the 1940's...it's been in our family for as long as I can remember...but I'm not sure where it originated...
the fur clip is part of our (extensive) collection of vintage costume jewelry...
you will see it used generously throughout this post...

...this biscuit tin has been in the family for decades...
I rescued this and two others from the garage sale box...when my parents were moving twenty years ago...the vintage brooch is carved Mother-of-Pearl...so pretty...

...this is another of our vintage English biscuit tins.
...topped with another vintage dress clip (the mate lost long ago)...

...about five years ago, I found a fabulous deal on rolls of white tulle ribbon...

I'm still using it...I roll it up and recycle it every year...

...these heart shaped hat boxes were given to my daughters, Rosie and Katie,
about ten years ago...

More Frugal Luxury Courtesy of The Pleasures of Homemaking

2008-12-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

"Kindred Spirits aren't so scarce as I used to think."
--Lucy Maud Montgomery
------------------

Kind Manuela at The Pleasures of Homemaking
has amazing decorating ideas on her blog!
She has very generously allowed me to
post these photos of her holiday tree...
I really love how she solved a problem using
the cranberry transfer-ware cup and the blue and white creamer!
These photos are just the tip of the iceberg...
you should see what she's doing with silver and mercury glass over at
http://thepleasuresofhomemaking.blogspot.com
you'll be so inspired.

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This is so clever to place the tree in front of a mirror...
it is framed beautifully...plus it will give double the light!

Notice how she blends store-bought ornaments with items from her china cabinet!
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Making Gifts From Repurposed Cups...See What we're doing over at the Frugal Luxuries blog!

2008-12-08T12:01:00.001-08:00

See what we're doing with old tea cups and more at...
http://frugalluxuries.blogspot.com

HGTV LINK for RIBBONS & BOWS FROM LEFTOVER LINENS & IMPERFECT DOILIES TO EMBELLISH GIFTS !

2008-12-05T10:03:00.000-08:00

To see the project below... and other re-cycled linen projects... on HGTV's Carol Duvall Show...you can see our segment page on HGTV's website...and get more of our creative ideas for "embellishing the ordinary" using vintage and leftover linens. Click here to view.... http://www.hgtv.com/dc-fabrics-other/leftover-linens/index.html

Frugal Luxuries: Christmas Secrets...Part Four...

2008-12-05T08:59:00.000-08:00

Below you will find an excerpt from "FRUGAL LUXURIES BY THE SEASONS";written by Tracey McBride; published by Bantam Books, NY, 2000

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CREATE RIBBONS & BOWS FROM

LEFTOVER LINENS & IMPERFECT DOILIES TO EMBELLISH GIFTS !

Now is the season in which to make use of the wondrous ribbon collection you have been gathering throughout the year. Pull from you Gift Pantry(tm) the fine organdy and wired French-style ribbons you bought on sale after last Christmas, and mingle them with the more humble ribbons you have made from vintage clothes, linens, and doilies garnered from tag sales and flea markets. I have been using ribbons made from recycled fabrics since my college years, when I used pinking sheers to make strands of red-and-white gingham ribbon from one of my father's cast-off shirts. I have also had no qualms recycling pieces of ribbon that I have received as gifts, or found at yard sales, thus my generously sized ribbon basket is filled with layer upon layer of ribbon-y treasures.
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The bow shown above was composed of pinching a round doily in the center, then hot-gluing a snippet of ribbon around it to secure.
Thread a longer ribbon through it and attach to a gift
or...
hot-glue it to a head-band or a barrette-clip and it transforms into a retro-style hair ornament for the little girl in your life (or the little girl in yourself)!
Hint: This is a great way to use those slightly damaged or imperfect doilies or linens that are just too pretty to throw out ...als0...
If you prefer a stiff look to the bow (as opposed to the floppier, natural look) simply iron it... using a heavy spray starch...allow it to cool before pinching into a bow shape. One more thing...
If you are tired of using it as a bow, simply peel off the center ribbon and use as a doily again.
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I demonstrated this...and other re-cycled linen projects... on HGTV's Carol Duvall Show...you can see our segment page on HGTV's website...and get more of our creative ideas for "embellishing the ordinary" using vintage and leftover linens. Click here to view.... http://www.hgtv.com/dc-fabrics-other/leftover-linens/index.html

Frugal Luxuries: Christmas Secrets...Part Three...

2008-12-04T07:53:00.000-08:00

Below you will find an excerpt from "FRUGAL LUXURIES BY THE SEASONS";written by Tracey McBride; published by Bantam Books, NY, 2000

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GARLANDS of FESTIVE TEA CUPS

I enhance my lovingly collected treasures with the blessings of nature from my garden, the produce department at the grocery store, or clippings garnered from neighboring trees and shrubs (always with permission). Occasionally I secure my most festive teacups onto garlands that surround windows and doors, by threading a sturdy attractive ribbon through the cup handles and tying them firmly onto a well-supported portion of the garland. I have yet to lose one to breakage, but several have been commandeered by friends who fell in love with a particular design. If you are reluctant to risk your good cups in this manner, consider acquiring attractive teacups of less quality or value (such as those with hairline cracks or small chips) exclusively for this purpose. You may also embellish holiday trees in a like manner, and holiday wreaths look enchanting with child-size china teacups attached to them.
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Frugal Luxuries: Christmas Secrets...Part Two...

2008-12-03T08:55:00.001-08:00

Below you will find an excerpt from "FRUGAL LUXURIES BY THE SEASONS";
written by Tracey McBride; published by Bantam Books, NY, 2000.
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Enhancing a Little....
Drawing taken from Frugal Luxuries by the Season, by Tracey McBride, Bantam, 2000.
Artist:Alexis Larson Gibson: Copyright 2000, all rights reserved.
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Make a small tree seem much larger by setting it atop a trunk or a table, to give it height. Drape a floor-length tablecloth over the table before situating the tree, then use the remaining area of the tabletop to set gifts upon. Surround the floor around the tree-laden table with various sizes and shapes of attractive baskets, prop open an antique trunk, vintage doll stroller, or baskets and fill with larger gifts and/or your favorite collection, or other attractive containers. One year we placed our antique wicker bassinet near the tree as part of our holiday decorating.
.....Other ideas are to use these vessels to display a stuffed bear or doll collection; to collect an overflow of gifts; and/or to hold a bounty of dried flowers, herb bundles, or pine cones. As well, a child's chair, or attractive doll furniture, placed nearby, with a doll or stuffed bear nestled in it (let your children dress them in their prettiest holiday outfits) is another whimsical touch that allows a little to seem like more.
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Frugal Luxuries: Christmas Secrets...Part One...

2008-12-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

Below you will find an excerpt from "FRUGAL LUXURIES BY THE SEASONS";
written by Tracey McBride; published by Bantam Books, NY, 2000.

The First Simple Secret to the Frugal Luxuries Holiday Decorating...On Any Income
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Prisms of Light

Ever since I saw the movie "Pollyanna" years and years ago....I have been a collector of crystal chandelier prism. I often take them from dilapidated light fixtures found at yard sales and flea markets. Cleaned and sparkling, these make lovely additions to your holiday tree, imparting the look of sparkling icicles. When the light catches the crystals they cast tiny rainbows throughout the room....

Ooops! Directions for these Little Mysteries are in the Comment section.

2008-12-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

Hello Good Souls.
If you're interested in directions for making these little cornucopias, please look in the comments section beneath the photos. Inadvertantly, I posted the pictures and captions without the directions!
Warmly,
Tracey

Creating Token Gifts...By Way of Creative Recycling of the Ordinary.

2008-12-01T08:52:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cornucopias Shushhhh....can you keep a secret? They are created from recycled fast-food drinking cups!

Harvest (Candy) Corn from Pumpkins & Other Edible Delights...

2008-11-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

Harvest (Candy) Corn from Pumpkins & Other Edible Delights!

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Not so in the natural world...but in the world of Frugal Luxuries anything is possible!!
See how by visiting http://frugalluxuriesfood.blogspot.com/ !
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See Nature's Prettiest Bowls on the same visit!

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GIFT PANTRY

2008-11-14T14:44:00.000-08:00

UNDERSTANDING THE GIFT PANTRY (tm)

"The only thing we ever have is what we give away."
--Louis Ginsberg

A Gift Pantry (tm) from our past.
---------------------------------------------
The following is excerpted from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons,
by Tracey McBride, published by Bantam Books, 2000
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Gift Pantry may become your most valuable tool for celebrating each phase of the year in a joyous, creative, and simple fashion. For those of you not familiar with the concept, a Gift Pantry is a collection of gifts and packaging materials---homemade, home-grown, and/or purchased--kept readily available for future use. By stocking a Gift Pantry year round you may discover, as I have, that you will save time as well as money. Most important, a Gift Pantry greatly contributes to your peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivals of the season.
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THE ART OF GIFT GIVING
"The only gift is a portion of thyself"
--Emerson

Although there is no other aspect of the holiday season that creates more anxiety than selecting thoughtful gifts for family and friends, the art of gift-giving need not break your bank account or drain your time and energy. Here are a few ideas to help make your holidays artfully simple.

GIFT CERTIFICATES [& CARDS] Gift certificates [& cards) area always a welcome present. Who would not enjoy receiving the promise of a meal to savor at favorite restaurant? Your presentation will be even more creative when you wrap the gift certificate with a menu from the same restaurant! Simply ask for a menu when purchasing the gift certificate [or download and print one out from the Internet].
THE GIFT OF MEMORY A loving gift for older or grown children and grandchildren is to assemble a special book, or recipe box, with a collection of all your favorite family recipes. Don't forget to gather recipes from grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and so on. Each year you may add new recipes as well as appropriate sayings and footnotes as to what is most remembered about that particular recipe. This thought gesture will provide a lovely gift that will grow with your children, or offer your grown children a true box of memories from their youth.
ADOPT A NEEDY FAMILY If you exchange gifts at your office you might want to start a new tradition. Instead of giving gifts to one another, jointly adopt a needy family. Gifts of donated money, food, clothing, or toys can be presented to the family in need.
PRACTICAL GIVING One Christmas, a friend of mine gave her elderly parents and in-laws an emergency kit to keep in the car. It contained a firs-aid kit, bottled water, enough canned food to last one person for two to four days, a flare, and a thin, insulated blanket bout at a camping store. Packaged in a sturdy plastic box, these are the kind of practical gifts that people seldom think to buy for themselves.
RECYCLED TREASURES Monogram a set of vintage stemware for a newlywed couple's first Christmas, have a child's name engraved on an antique silver baby's cup or spoon, or delight a friend who enjoys antique books with one she has long appreciated from your own collection. Gifts need not be new, or purchased, to have value. My mother knew a woman who took an antique clock from the wall and gave it as a Christmas gift to a friend who had always admired it.

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Taken from Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, by Tracey McBride, Bantam Books, NY, 2000.

...A Few More Illustrations of Nature's Bounty.

2008-11-12T12:31:00.003-08:00

You've probably already noticed that photography isn't really in my skill set.

---

I was going to post a picture of the full mantle yesterday...

try as I may, I could not get a clear quality photo of the entire vignette.

Today, I gave it another try...sadly...this is the best (i.e., clearest) shot

I could come up with. I added a few close-up shots of the corner areas...

these are a little better than the one directly above...but not much!

Hopefully, I'll have a bit more knowledge of my equipment

when the time comes to photograph the Christmas mantle!

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NATURE'S BOUNTY...ILLUSTRATED!

2008-11-11T09:49:00.001-08:00

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Here are the promised photos of how we implemented

the use-what-you-have philosophy
to create eco-friendly, budget friendly, double-duty holiday decor!
In these photos I've used my favorite Acorn squash;

oranges from my Dad's tree (no-one’s quite sure what variety they are as they are tiny

...a little larger than kumquats);
and a variety of seed pods gathered from the garden!
Place them in wooden or ceramic bowls and use as table centerpieces

(see article below for details & more decorating ideas).
Caution: The candle in the bowl is for LOOKS ONLY!
(Obviously, DON'T light the candle or you'll have a bonfire!!)
The apples were an afterthought...

I couldn't resist the great price...

organic apples on sale for 88-cents per lb at Frazier Farms.
The bowls took all of ten -- fifteen minutes to gather and arrange...
The mantle took about twenty-five minutes due to the twinkle lights.
Spent very little Money (almost none)
Barring the squash ($1.19 each at the farm stand) & apples.
I'll eat them once the holiday is over (cut squash in half & baked with a little butter & sea salt--yumm). The twinkle lights were from Christmas a few years ago.
After Thanksgiving I'll replace the autumn-y colors/things with Christmas ornaments

and fresh evergreens from the garden (such as Rosemary, Eucalyptus, & Pine).
The twinkle lights & candles will remain

(I'll replace the tiny oranges around the center candle with cranberries or??).
Doing this saves time, money and is very very green!
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The Forgotten Wealth of Nature

2008-11-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

This Holiday Season Let Nature (and Your Pantry) Provide.

Double-Duty Decor is...

Eco-Friendly; Budget Friendly; Time-Saving and Elegantly Simple!

"We are lovers of beauty without extravagance."
--Thucydides

Don't go nuts. Keep in mind that Christmas is right around the corner, so if you're decorating, try to make your Thanksgiving decor do double-duty, whenever possible.

Before you buy anything, look around your house and garden for items that might work well to embellish your home for the holidays. I like to gather bowls made of wood and pottery in rich, earth-tone colors. Heaped with nature's bounty, they serve as unique, eco-friendly centerpieces for the entry, coffee and dining tables. To fill them I look for interesting seed pods and pine cones ( I also recycle those miniature pumpkins I bought from Trader Joe's for Halloween). Remember to look in your kitchen and pantry as well! Nuts, still in the shell, are ideal fillers, as are some types of vegetables, such as hard squash. These make delicious eating but are also charming to look at and quite sturdy, even when left un-refrigerated for a few weeks. The Acorn squash, with its architectural lines, makes a lovely addition to your autumnal decor--it's rich green color pops when you set it next to the yellow-orange Butternut variety. (You could also put rustic items inside a refined silver or crystal bowl--to create a more startling contrast.) The bonus is that you can eat the squash once the holiday has ended! (Bake it for about an hour, add a bit of olive oil or butter, sprinkle with sea salt and you have a delicious treat--but yet again, I digress). Oh, and let's not forget the classic pumpkin! These are lovely for Thanksgiving as well as Halloween. In fact, we buy several smallish pumpkins (these are the sweetest in flavor) before Halloween and leave a few un-carved pumpkins to serve as Thanksgiving decorations for the porch! If you've carved yours, don't despair, as fresh pumpkins are a huge bargain now. For example, the pumpkin patch down the street from us is now selling them for $1 each. Pumpkins are also delicious when cooked. You may bake and eat them (similar to a Butternut squash) or puree your baked, peeled pumpkin--using a food processor or blender--and use it (as you would canned pumpkin pack) to make amazingly delicious pumpkin pie! (It also freezes well.)

Remember to use nature's non-edible bounty as well. Evergreens--snipped from your yard or garden--provide excellent sources for holiday decorating. Some of my favorites are Lemon, Rosemary and Eucalyptus leaves (with the little bell shaped seeds attached). Cedar, Pine, and Juniper all keep their color and shape for several weeks as well.

Choose colors that will blend with your Christmas or Hanukkah decorations, such as cream or white. I like to put a lot of chunky, cream-color candles in tall glass pillars on the fireplace mantle and window sills. Tucked around them (at the base) you'll find tiny white twinkle lights, pine cones, mini gourds & pumpkins, and a few (well made) faux fall leaves for color (authentic leaves shrivel and crumble after a few days--believe me, I've tried them!). When Thanksgiving is over, I simply replace the gourds, pumpkins and leaves with snips of fresh evergreen from our garden & tuck in a few retro style glass balls in silver, blue, and green (securing them so they don't roll). You can use whatever ornaments you have available.

Another last, little trick is to elevate the ordinary--To give a small pumpkin more importance, I place it atop a small urn we had in the garden. This adorns the banister of our porch, along with other outdoor decor. You don't need to have an urn to do this; a terra cotta planter, or even a stainless steel champagne bucket would work as well. As always, the frugal luxury philosophy is one of creating beauty by way of using-what-you-have; being eco-friendly; budget friendly; double-duty; time saving; and money saving. We are, after all, "lovers of beauty without extravagance." (Thucydides).

Autumnal Double-Duty Decor

2008-11-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

Better Late Than Never...

I should have shown this idea about a month ago,

I'm sorry to tell you it didn't occur to me to share until now!

(Something to file away for next season, perhaps.)

-------------

Each autumn I try to do a simple autumn theme instead of a Halloween theme.

For the record, I do put a happy (not scary) jack-0-lantern sign out front

as well as a vintage style jack-0-lantern bucket that we use as sort of luminary...

inside I put about six tea lite candles which are lit on Halloween night.

These two items are taken down on November 1st, but I leave the fresh pumpkins and lanterns up until Thanksgiving. After which I will bake pumpkin pies from the fresh pumpkins (look for upcoming photos and how-to's in http://frugalluxuriesfood.blogspot.com ).

I will also leave the lanterns up and include them in our Christmas decor !

The little vignette above is atop a half-moon table on our front porch.

It is so charming when the candle is lit at night,

the window behind it looks into our kitchen and adds a nice flicker inside as well as out.

The little wooden sunflower fell off our door decoration and I thought it was so cute I reused it here.

The above shot is from our porch looking out to the side.

The lantern and the two bird houses stay up year round

while the centerpiece

...a fresh pumpkin atop an iron urn...

changes from season to season!

Easy and double duty.
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The Olive Tree in the back ground always wants to join us on the porch...

by growing through the opening!

As well, little squirrels sometimes beg food from the near branches

...yes...we feed them from time to time (it's so hard to say no!).

Faithful Budgeting

2008-10-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful in that which is much...."
--Luke 16:10

Faithful Holiday Budgeting

When researching the origins of gift giving, I came across some startling facts.

Today, gift giving during the winter holidays is practically mandatory—so much so that I’m reminded of the story about the Roman emperor Caligula . It’s said that one New Year’s Day he announced he would stand on his veranda to receive gifts of money—if the amount didn’t satisfy him the giver was publicly shamed/humiliated. To those of us who dread opening the mail after the holiday, due to the abundance of bills accumulated, beware of the Caligula philosophy. To help keep holiday bills in check consider implementing the following strategies.

Create a budget. Decide before you shop the total amount you can afford to spend for holiday shopping. Next, divide that amount among the people on your list. (Seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people shop randomly, without a budget in mind.)

Track your spending. One of my favorite ways to organize my holiday finances is to establish an envelope system. Designating an envelope for each person on my holiday gift list does this. On the outside of the envelope I write the person’s name, the amount I’ve budged to spend on their gift and any gift ideas I have in mind for them. Inside the envelope I put the amount of cash I’ll spend on that person. When I do my holiday gift shopping I simply take the envelopes (and no credit cards) and spend only what I’ve budgeted. Note: Keep these in a safe, hard to get to compartment of your purse, or in your front pocket if you don’t use a purse.)

Drawing lots. To further reduce holiday spending, you might want to consider drawing lots for names of family members. As a result, you ‘all need to buy a gift for the person whose name you’ve drawn. Your family may wish to draw names annually, or create a list where givers and recipients are rotated each year. (This strategy is particularly helpful in reducing holiday spending in large families, and among large groups of friends or coworkers who exchange gifts.) You might also designate a limited spending amount on each gift, so that no one feels slighted or hurt if the values vary dramatically.

Consignment or EBay/Online shopping has saved my holiday budget on many occasions. Consignment game stores and children’s shops are great ways to stretch your holiday budget (or any time of the year). I’ve found used video game systems (fairly new) and games at less 1/3 the price of retail for my son at a consignment video game store; new china tea sets and American Girls ® dolls (with wardrobe some wardrobe and accessory pieces) at a children’s consignment clothing store (?); and most recently, we’ve purchased Juicy Couture® hoodies for $25 (brand new) and Diesel jeans (also brand new) for $48 on eBay. And for those artsy types who appreciate retro pieces or revamped vintage, Etsy has some fabulous bargains and is full of amazing artists. http://www.etsy.com/

HALLMARKS of SIMPLICITY

2008-10-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

"Nothing is so simple as greatness."

--Emerson

Simplicity will solve problems not create them.

Simplicity is apparent in its eloquence: Think of The Lord's Prayer and the Bill of Rights.

Simplicity is the shortest distance between point A and point B (literally and figuratively)

Simplicity has the capability not only to avoid the false but expose it.

Simplicity inspires greatness. Emerson understood this when he wrote "To be simple is to be great." Remember, the simple act of watching a tea kettle steam up inspired the steam engine. Birds in flight inspired man to build airplanes. A falling apple inspired Newton to uncover the law of gravity.

Simplicity enhances lives. It allows you to appreciate simple pleasures such as nature, family, friends, sustenance, shelter, contentment, education, courage, beauty and thrift.

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Excerpt from FRUGAL LUXURIES, Bantam Books, NY, 1997.

The Autumn Gift Pantry™

2008-10-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

Packaged Gifts of Noble Origin
“Every gift of noble origin
Is breathed upon by Hope’s perpetual breath.”

—–Wordsworth

During this season of abundance and harvest, I am thinking of the many wonderful gifts I can compose from nature’s noble bounty. As special as these gifts may be, they become superlative when the packaging in which they are presented is artful, attractive and frugal.

MAGICAL JARS

The most attractive jars for jams, jellies and preserves are simple mason jars, which lend an old-fashioned charm. You can also use mason jars for a bevy of gifts other than preserves. I keep them on hand in a variety of sizes in order to send soup home with a friend, or to package flavored popcorns, nuts, well-dried fruits, homemade pancake mix, granola and the like. These traditional jars look even more lovely when their metal caps are embellished in an attractive manner. Boxes of mason jars are available in a variety of sizes at grocery or hardware stores, and are often quite reasonably priced. Or look for them at thrift shops, flea markets and yard sales. Keep in mind that if you will be using them for actual canning purposes they should have no chips or cracks, no matter how small, especially at the top of the rim.

APOTHECARY JARS: These may be collected throughout the year and added to your GIFT PANTRY™ and used to present gifts of food, or store-bought candies. (They're lovely for repacking candies and nuts bought in bulk.) I have presented this type of jar filled with individually wrapped chocolates and hard candies, as well as firm homemade cookies, sturdy fudge squares (you may wish to wrap these in cellophane or waxed paper beforehand), and nuts (flavored or plain). With an attractive ribbon around the rim, and a pretty tag hanging from the lid, you have a lovely token of your friendship to give to a neighbor, friend, hostess, or to include as part of a gift basket.

LACE DOILIES: Create a charming, finished gift package by tying lace doilies onto the tops of mason jars, using raffia, silken cord, or satin ribbon. You can easily make your own lace doilies by cutting rounds of lace from scraps you have on hand. Note: You can hem the raw edges, using a fray-reducing product (Fray Check works nicely) , or sew (or use fabric glue) satin binding along the edges.

WRAPPING JARS: If you wish to wrap the entire jar with paper or fabric (as opposed to merely the lid) take a square three times as wide as the jar is tall. For example, if the jar is four inches tall, you will need a twelve-inch square of paper. Place the jar on it’s side, about an inch away from the paper’s edge, and roll. Fold the ends of the paper that are under the jar first (neatly, so it stands properly) and fasten with tape. Next, gather the top of the paper and tie it tightly with raffia or ribbon. This will create a paper collar that will stand up and form a ruffle at the top of the jar.

JAR COVERS: Make your own jar covers by cutting circles from papers humble or grand—use parchment, handmade art papers, brown craft paper, plain white freezer or computer paper. Take this concept a step further, and photocopy old black-and-white botanical prints or silhouettes onto the paper --use these to cover your jar lids for an unusual effect. Commercial paper doilies and scraps of attractive fabrics look lovely as well.
—————————————————————
Excerpt from Frugal Luxuries by the Season, Bantam, 2000

WARM UP TO AUTUMN

2008-09-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

" That I am here afore thy sight, For gifts and grace;

A burning and a shining light

To a' this place."

---Robert Burns

----------------------------------------------------

Warm up to autumn. Once the first cold snap sends you to the cedar trunk to embrace the warm woolen blankets, you will know that the time has arrived to seasonally adjust your home.

Add warm layers to sofas and chairs by way of paisley or plaid throws; add attractive runners to visually warm tabletops; and layer hooked or Oriental style rugs on the wooden floors.

Now is the time to store your summery china and glasswares and replace them with the holiday stoneware or china you have collected throughout the year.

Slipcover your down comforter in a warming cotton flannel, and add colorful panels of fabric to the windows, over your sheers.

Remember to rearrange your furniture away from drafts and cold window areas, drawing the sofa or table up to the hearth. Now is also the season in which to stack the books you've been meaning to read on the coffee or side table. If you like, cluster your easy chairs around the dining room table, and/or pull a small side table in front of the hearth for cozy games of chess or cribbage, or perhaps a small supper in front of a gently warming blaze.

Cluster candles on a plant stand or stack in a fireplace to add visual warmth to a room. Place small votive candles in salvaged martini glasses all around your kitchen (add a bit of water to the bottom so the glass won't crack). This seems to dispel unwanted cooking odors. (And, of course, always keep lit candles out of reach of little hands.)

Borrow from nature and gather bouquets of fall leaves, and fill wooden bowls with pinecones, colorful gourds, Indian corn, or a combination of all of these.

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Excerpt from: Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons, Bantam Books, NY, 2000.

DEGREES OF CELEBRATION

2008-09-23T17:21:00.000-07:00

-----------------------------

Label Your Own . . .

DEGREES OF CELEBRATION

"That is best which is capable of producing the greatest degree of happiness."

--George Mason

Just as each of us has chosen our own unique style of living on a day-to-day basis, we may also choose the degree of celebrating Christmas from season to season. Freedom can be found in the fact that each year need not mirror the last. Your choices may reflect your current attitude, your financial situation, or both. Regardless of the circumstances that guide your decision, the realization that YOU HOLD THE POWER to choose how you will celebrate the holidays will free you from the frenzied pace that tends to hover over most of us this time of year.

I've experienced lavish holidays during which I decorated each nook and cranny of our home. The fresh evergreen wreaths, that embellished nearly every window of our house, were peppered with fresh red roses (set in small water-filled florist' vials). Each gift was a carefully thought out, sought out, and accomplished masterpiece. Perfectly packaged and ceremoniously delivered. I happily (and voluntarily ) expended tremendous amounts of energy (not to mention money) to celebrate every facet of the holiday season in a detailed fashion.

That being said, what are we, as Shakespeare reminds us, if not human ? Other years present larger than usual limitations on what we can accomplish, such as restraints on time, energy, enthusiasm, or finances. But even during less lavish celebrations I continue to moderately decorate the house and give gifts. However, the decorations are few and well chosen, the gifts tend more toward the practical (think gift certificates, cash, or hurriedly ordered items from online) and humbly packaged. There have even been years in which, foregoing my semi-perfectionism, I succumbed to the pleas of my young children to let them help wrap. Their small hands jubilantly performed this task (so dreaded by me, at the time) and the results were charmingly imperfect.

Do you wish to celebrate more simply this year? If so, it's perfectly permissible to say to your family "This Christmas we will be doing things a bit different from last season." (Or your own variation thereof.) Once this announcement has been made -- and the kids reassured that you aren't identifying too strongly with Ebenezer Scrooge-- you may feel that a tremendous pressure has been lifted from you. Consequently, you might discover that you have a renewed joy in the seasonal tasks that you are performing. Why? Possibly because you do not feel quite so obligated to perform them. (There's that free will aspect again.)

The material things of this world, when used properly, are good. Yet, there is a time for temperance and a time for luxury (and a time to blend the two). Most of us bow to family or cultural pressures, forgetting that we have the power, and the responsibility, to choose the degree of celebration that is right for us and our families — at this particular season of life. Keep in mind, however, that lifestyles, attitudes, and circumstances can change over time. Declare this to your family and yourself so that you may peacefully, without remorse, alternate your celebrating style from one year to the next, whatever degree it may be. The choice is yours.

GIFT PANTRY (tm)

2008-09-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following is an excerpt from the book, Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate Holidays With Elegance and Simplicity—On Any Income, Bantam Books, NY, 2000.

---------------------------------------------------------

UNDERSTANDING THE GIFT PANTRY(tm)
“The only thing we have is what we give away.”
—Louis Ginsberg

The Gift Pantry feature (along with the [Holiday Notebook]….may become your most valuable tool for celebrating each phase of the year in a joyous, creative, and simple fashion. For those of you not familiar with the concept, a Gift Pantry™ is a collection of gifts and packaging material—homemade, home-grown, and/or purchased—kept readily available for future use. By stocking a Gift Pantry year round you may discover, as I have, that you will save time as well as money. Most important, a Gift Pantry greatly contributes to your peace of mind. Allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivals of the season.

THE WONDROUS CIRCLE CONTINUES (STILL EARLY)

2008-09-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

Christig

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SIMPLIFYING YOUR HOLIDAYS

continued...

Th Joy of List Making

Lists are an invaluable tool for staying focused. In this information age our memories are on overload much of the time. Thus, the idea of allowing paper to carry the burden of remembering and organizing the season's myriad tasks is enticing. If you're at all like me your HOLIDAY NOTEBOOK will probably include the following:

A MASTER GIFT LIST. Write down every person you wish to include in your holiday gift giving. Next to each name, indicate how much you want to spend on the gift; whether you plan to buy or make the gift; as well as several ideas you have for that person (don't forget stocking stuffers and token, i.e., small, gifts). Remember to include the mail delivery person, trash collectors, teachers, neighbors, and business associates. If necessary, add a reminder for gifts that must be mailed in advance--include a "mail-by" date to ensure they get delivered on time.

CREATE A SEPARATE PAGE FOR EACH PERSON on your list who will be receiving more than one or two gifts. Allow enough space on each page for an ACQUIRED column. You will use this to record gifts once they've been purchased or created. This is especially useful to parents with several children to buy for, as well for monitoring Internet purchases. Don't forget to record the date you ordered them so you can keep track of their arrival. When recording an item in the ACQUIRED column, remember to write down the price you paid.

ESTABLISH SEVERAL PAGES TO LIST HOLIDAY DECORATING TASKS. This includes buying and trimming the tree, writing and mailing greeting cards; wrapping gifts; putting up outdoor decorations and the like. You may also wish to include projected completion dates next to each listed task.

CREATE PAGES TO RECORD HOLIDAY BAKING PROJECTS AND RECIPES. Include home baked gifts you'll be making, as well as goodies for parties you plan to attend (homemade goodies are lovely hostess gifts) or host. Remember to include foods you plan to serve during the holidays, such as pies and breakfast breads, even the turkey, potatoes, stuffing and vegetables. Hint: Be sure to include the cost of your baking supplies when deciding your full holiday budget (mentioned in yesterday's post).

CREATE AN ACTION PAGE for each week leading up to your final completion date. This is determined by your start and finish dates. For example: If you begin planning on October 3rd, and your final deadline is December 4th, you'll have nine weeks in which to accomplish your goals. Consequently, you'll have nine ACTION pages (one for each week).

EACH WEEK, CHOOSE ONE (OR MORE) GIFTS FROM YOUR LIST AND BUY THEM. Your budget and timeline will determine how many or how few. Remember to wrap, label, and discretely tuck aside your gifts each week. When our children were small we used those very large, black garbage bags to house the gifts. We hid most of them in the rafters of the garage. Just don't forget where you put them!!

FINALLY, INCLUDE A PAGE TO LIST NAMES OF CHARITIES YOU LIKE TO ASSIST, along with their web address, phone number and the like. I can't think of a better way to cultivate the soul of the season than to give the gift of caring ~ in the form of time, money, and/or labor. Think about helping out at your local soup kitchen or shelter during the busy holiday season. Hint: In a culture of entitlement, this is an especially valuable lesson for older children and teens who don't realize how blessed they are. I can think of no better experience than to include them in your charitable activities. Seeing how tough life can be for those less fortunate offers a valuable gift of perspective at a young age.

Relax and Create the Magic

Once you've allowed your HOLIDAY NOTEBOOK to bear the burden of remembering and organizing for you, you'll enjoy them so much more. There is a magic in list making. The simple act of writing out your potential accomplishments sends an unconscious message to the central nervous system. Consequently, you will often find yourself doing the very tasks you've wanted done.

Remember to relax. You needn't fret if you're unable to accomplish or afford every task and item in your HOLIDAY NOTEBOOK. If the decorations aren't perfect, and the children don't have matching outfits, the world won't come to an end. Your family and friends aren't nearly as likely to remember such details. What they WILL remember is whether you were in a good mood or a bad mood.

THE WONDROUS CIRCLE BEGINS (EARLY)

2008-09-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

This is the first in an ongoing series of posts offering

frugal ways to simplify your holidays.

-----------------------------------

SIMPLIFY YOUR HOLIDAYS

Adopt a Holiday Notebook

What is a holiday notebook? It's any small organizer; sturdy note pad (with cover); or even a smallish spiral binder. The only criteria is that it ... A) be devoted exclusively to this year's holiday season and ... B) it must be small enough to fit inside your purse. You will be taking this with you everywhere.

Establish a Holiday Budget

Before any serious shopping begins, establish a budget for holiday spending. Give serious and realistic thought to exactly how much money, in total, you are able to spend this holiday season--without melting the plastic and creating a financial hangover in the new year. Include entertaining expenses, baking supplies, decorations that you will need to purchase, as well as the cost of your gifts. Remember to track your spending as you implement your plan. Set up several pages of your holiday notebook to record the spending (leave yourself plenty of room for future entries). Hint: Tape or staple a small manila envelope to the inside of your Holiday Notebook. Use this to hold gift receipts for those inevitable returns, as well as any warranties, or rebate information that correspond to the gifts you'll be purchasing.

To Be Continued....

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