It's hard to post when you have more than 200 THINGS to grade, check in, or read. It's hard to write comments to nice blog readers when you have zillions of comments to write to students. Luckily, I found my "Great Work" Smiley Face stamp that went missing. It is a great hit with students. Do you think it's weird that a college teacher resorts to such rewards for students? At my previous places of employ, such rewards would have been seen as diminishing the gravitas fitting to my profession. Whatever.
Anyway, I am mired in all the stuff mentioned above. I am also off for 11 days because of the convergence of my schedule and the Mardi Gras break. Lots of time to do work and to hit at least one New Orleans parade: my favorite, Proteus. Look at the beautiful floats.
Even though you can't come to a parade with me, we can meet in a virtual way at Big Lots, which has a 20% off coupon for Sunday. Here's a coupon for you.
Showing posts with label Holiday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holiday. Show all posts
Friday, 4 March 2011
Monday, 3 January 2011
First Bit of Luck for the New Year
On New Year's morn, I cooked up some lentils. I got a little nervous. Later, I asked Frugal Son if it HAD to be black-eyed peas for the new year or would lentils suffice? Black-eyed peas, he averred.
I never ate the things before I moved to the South. I think the black-eyed peas are optional anywhere else, but I did not want to bring the bad karma down on me. We need that gris-gris.
Our first dinner was traditional: black-eyed peas, greens (still from the garden!), a little bacon. I think rice is traditional, but I made mashed potatoes anyway because I love them.
Next day: Miss Em inserts DVD into drive on our Mac. Mac goes crazy. This happened before. The nice people at Best Buy removed the DVD at no charge and we forgot about the problem.
Mr. FS very gloomy: We need to get this fixed. It will cost hundreds of dollars. Me: gloomy too.
Sunday at noon: Mr. FS sets out on the sad journey to Best Buy. Guess what? Our Mac is under warranty for SEVEN MORE DAYS.
MORAL: Eat your black-eyed peas. Eat your greens. No matter how you cook this traditional fare, it will be frugal. And what could be more frugal than good luck?
The best Louisiana cookbooks are the ones put together by the various service organizations around the state.
I never ate the things before I moved to the South. I think the black-eyed peas are optional anywhere else, but I did not want to bring the bad karma down on me. We need that gris-gris.
Our first dinner was traditional: black-eyed peas, greens (still from the garden!), a little bacon. I think rice is traditional, but I made mashed potatoes anyway because I love them.
Next day: Miss Em inserts DVD into drive on our Mac. Mac goes crazy. This happened before. The nice people at Best Buy removed the DVD at no charge and we forgot about the problem.
Mr. FS very gloomy: We need to get this fixed. It will cost hundreds of dollars. Me: gloomy too.
Sunday at noon: Mr. FS sets out on the sad journey to Best Buy. Guess what? Our Mac is under warranty for SEVEN MORE DAYS.
MORAL: Eat your black-eyed peas. Eat your greens. No matter how you cook this traditional fare, it will be frugal. And what could be more frugal than good luck?
The best Louisiana cookbooks are the ones put together by the various service organizations around the state.
Friday, 31 December 2010
Upscale Gifts circa 1561-1562: New Year's Gifts for the Queen
These make for a fascinating read. Just the tip of the iceberg. Good records were kept. Note the recording of the value of the gifts. Sorry about the formatting.
Happy New Year!
Neweeyeur's Gyftes gevon to the Quene her Majestie by those Parsons whose Names hereafter ensue, the first of January, the Yere above wrytten.
£. s. d.
By the Lady Margaret Strainge, a little round mounte of golde to conteyne a pomaunder in it.
With the Qene her Majestie.
Duke, Marquisses, and Earles.
By the Duke of Norfolke, in a purse of purple silke and golde knit, in sundry coynes of golde 20 0 0
By the Marquis of Winchester, High Threasourer of Englande, in a purse of crymsen satten, in angells 20 0 0
By the Marquis of Northampton, in a purse of crymsen silke and gold knit, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Arundell, Lord Steward, in a paper, in angels, 30 0 0
By the Earle of Shrewesburye, in a red silke purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Darbye, in a purse of crymsen satten, embraudered with golde, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Pembroke, in a purse of black silk and silver knit, in new angells 30 0 0
By the Earle of Bedforde, in a purse of black silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Rutlande, in a purse of red silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraigns and angells 20 0 0
By the Earle of Huntingdon, in a red silk purse, in angells 15 0 0
By the Earle of Westmerlande, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 10 0 0
By the Earle of Oxforde, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 10 0 0
By the Earle of Northumberlande, in a purse of black silke and silver knytt, in angells 10 0 0
With the Quene her Highness.
By the Earle of Warwike, a smocke wrought with black silk, a peire of slevis, and a partelett wrought with gold, silver, and black silke.
Delivered to the Lady Cobham.
By the Viscounte Mountague, in a purse of cloth of golde, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
With her said Majestie.
Busshopps.
By the Archbusshop of Caunterbury, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 40 0 0
By the Archbusshop of York, in soveraigns 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Duresme, in a purse of crymson silk and gold knytt, in angells 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Ely, in a red vellat purse, in angells 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Wynchester, in a purse of crymsen silk and gold knytt and set with pearles, in angells 20 0 0
By the Busshop of London, in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Salisbury, in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Worcester, in a black vellat purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Lyncoln, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Chychester, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Norwich, in a blew silk purse 13 6 8
By the Busshop of Hereforde, in a green silk purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Lychfield and Coventry, in a red satten purse, in angells 13 0 0
By the Busshop of Rochester, in a red purse, in gold 13 6 8
By the Busshop of Saint Davies, in a red silk purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Bathe, in a purse of red silk, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Exetour, in a blew silk purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Peterborowe, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Chester, in a red purse, in angells and soveraignes 10 0 0
With her said Majestie.
Duchesses and Countesses.
By the Duchess of Norfolke, in a prse of crymsen silk and gold knyt, in angells 20 0 0
By the Duchess of Somerset, in a purse of silver and black silk, in royalls and ducketts 14 0 0
By the Countess of Surrey, in a purse of tawny silk and gold, in dimy soveraignes 5 0 0
By the Countess of Pembroke, in a cherry bag of crymsen satten, in new angells 15 0 0
By the Countess of Bedford, in a purse of crymsen silk and silver knytt, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Darby, in a purse of crymson sattin embrodred with gold, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Oxford, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 5 0 0
By the Countess of Shrewisbury, Dowager, in a purse of black silk knytt, in dimy soveraignes 12 0 0
By the Countess of Shrewisbury, in a red silk purse knytt, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Huntingdon, Dowager, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Huntingdon, in a red purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Countess of Northumberland, in a purse of black silk and silver knytt, in angells 10 0 0
By the Countess of Rutland, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 13 6 8
Happy New Year!
Neweeyeur's Gyftes gevon to the Quene her Majestie by those Parsons whose Names hereafter ensue, the first of January, the Yere above wrytten.
£. s. d.
By the Lady Margaret Strainge, a little round mounte of golde to conteyne a pomaunder in it.
With the Qene her Majestie.
Duke, Marquisses, and Earles.
By the Duke of Norfolke, in a purse of purple silke and golde knit, in sundry coynes of golde 20 0 0
By the Marquis of Winchester, High Threasourer of Englande, in a purse of crymsen satten, in angells 20 0 0
By the Marquis of Northampton, in a purse of crymsen silke and gold knit, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Arundell, Lord Steward, in a paper, in angels, 30 0 0
By the Earle of Shrewesburye, in a red silke purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Darbye, in a purse of crymsen satten, embraudered with golde, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Pembroke, in a purse of black silk and silver knit, in new angells 30 0 0
By the Earle of Bedforde, in a purse of black silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Earle of Rutlande, in a purse of red silk and golde knytt, in dimy soveraigns and angells 20 0 0
By the Earle of Huntingdon, in a red silk purse, in angells 15 0 0
By the Earle of Westmerlande, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 10 0 0
By the Earle of Oxforde, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 10 0 0
By the Earle of Northumberlande, in a purse of black silke and silver knytt, in angells 10 0 0
With the Quene her Highness.
By the Earle of Warwike, a smocke wrought with black silk, a peire of slevis, and a partelett wrought with gold, silver, and black silke.
Delivered to the Lady Cobham.
By the Viscounte Mountague, in a purse of cloth of golde, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
With her said Majestie.
Busshopps.
By the Archbusshop of Caunterbury, in a red silk purse, in dimy soveraigns 40 0 0
By the Archbusshop of York, in soveraigns 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Duresme, in a purse of crymson silk and gold knytt, in angells 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Ely, in a red vellat purse, in angells 30 0 0
By the Busshop of Wynchester, in a purse of crymsen silk and gold knytt and set with pearles, in angells 20 0 0
By the Busshop of London, in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Salisbury, in a red satten purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Worcester, in a black vellat purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Lyncoln, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 20 0 0
By the Busshop of Chychester, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Norwich, in a blew silk purse 13 6 8
By the Busshop of Hereforde, in a green silk purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Lychfield and Coventry, in a red satten purse, in angells 13 0 0
By the Busshop of Rochester, in a red purse, in gold 13 6 8
By the Busshop of Saint Davies, in a red silk purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Bathe, in a purse of red silk, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Exetour, in a blew silk purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Peterborowe, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Busshop of Chester, in a red purse, in angells and soveraignes 10 0 0
With her said Majestie.
Duchesses and Countesses.
By the Duchess of Norfolke, in a prse of crymsen silk and gold knyt, in angells 20 0 0
By the Duchess of Somerset, in a purse of silver and black silk, in royalls and ducketts 14 0 0
By the Countess of Surrey, in a purse of tawny silk and gold, in dimy soveraignes 5 0 0
By the Countess of Pembroke, in a cherry bag of crymsen satten, in new angells 15 0 0
By the Countess of Bedford, in a purse of crymsen silk and silver knytt, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Darby, in a purse of crymson sattin embrodred with gold, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Oxford, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 5 0 0
By the Countess of Shrewisbury, Dowager, in a purse of black silk knytt, in dimy soveraignes 12 0 0
By the Countess of Shrewisbury, in a red silk purse knytt, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Huntingdon, Dowager, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 10 0 0
By the Countess of Huntingdon, in a red purse, in angells 10 0 0
By the Countess of Northumberland, in a purse of black silk and silver knytt, in angells 10 0 0
By the Countess of Rutland, in a red purse, in dimy soveraignes 13 6 8
Saturday, 25 December 2010
Christmas Poems by Robert Southwell and John Milton
If Christmas is part of your tradition, you might like to read this poem, by Catholic martyr Robert Southwell. Even if it's not part of your tradition, this is a great poem. Ben Jonson said that he would forfeit many of his own poems to have written "The Burning Babe."
FROM St. Peter's Complaint, 1595
THE BURNING BABE.
By Robert Southwell
As I in hoary winter's night stood shivering in the snow,
Surprised I was with sudden heat which made my heart to glow ;
And lifting up a fearful eye to view what fire was near,
A pretty babe all burning bright did in the air appear ;
Who, scorchëd with excessive heat, such floods of tears did shed
As though his floods should quench his flames which with his tears were fed.
Alas, quoth he, but newly born in fiery heats I fry,
Yet none approach to warm their hearts or feel my fire but I !
My faultless breast the furnace is, the fuel wounding thorns,
Love is the fire, and sighs the smoke, the ashes shame and scorns ;
The fuel justice layeth on, and mercy blows the coals,
The metal in this furnace wrought are men's defilëd souls,
For which, as now on fire I am to work them to their good,
So will I melt into a bath to wash them in my blood.
With this he vanished out of sight and swiftly shrunk away,
And straight I callëd unto mind that it was Christmas day.
Another beautiful Christmas poem is "On the Morning of Christ's Nativity" by John Milton. This is a long poem, so I'll just provide a link for you.
FROM St. Peter's Complaint, 1595
THE BURNING BABE.
By Robert Southwell
As I in hoary winter's night stood shivering in the snow,
Surprised I was with sudden heat which made my heart to glow ;
And lifting up a fearful eye to view what fire was near,
A pretty babe all burning bright did in the air appear ;
Who, scorchëd with excessive heat, such floods of tears did shed
As though his floods should quench his flames which with his tears were fed.
Alas, quoth he, but newly born in fiery heats I fry,
Yet none approach to warm their hearts or feel my fire but I !
My faultless breast the furnace is, the fuel wounding thorns,
Love is the fire, and sighs the smoke, the ashes shame and scorns ;
The fuel justice layeth on, and mercy blows the coals,
The metal in this furnace wrought are men's defilëd souls,
For which, as now on fire I am to work them to their good,
So will I melt into a bath to wash them in my blood.
With this he vanished out of sight and swiftly shrunk away,
And straight I callëd unto mind that it was Christmas day.
Another beautiful Christmas poem is "On the Morning of Christ's Nativity" by John Milton. This is a long poem, so I'll just provide a link for you.
Friday, 24 December 2010
Shopping as Gift Part 2: Gift Cards or Cash Encore?
For the last few days, my inbox has been filled with offers of gift cards. Physical gift cards arrive quickly. E-giftcards are, of course, instantaneous.
I wrote yesterday about how pre-holiday shopping excursions could be part of the gift. Mulling over earrings and perfumes with Miss Em is a lot of fun. Returning later to buy something I know she will like is also fun. Stress-free gifting! A great concept.
It occurred to me that gift cards and cash, which many find inappropriate at worst or unimaginative at best, could be factored into the shopping as gift concept (should I trademark???).
For instance, why not put $$$ into an envelope with a note: Let's go shopping on XX and you can pick out a gift?
Or, if you know where your recipient likes to shop, why not include a gift card with a similar note?
You could even do this across the miles. I wrote a little while ago about getting a new toaster oven with an Amazon card I was gifted. THANKS AGAIN, DEAR GIVER.
An un-anticipated advantage of this tactic is that your money can go farther. The recipient can choose a full-price item or can take advantage of the post-holiday sales.
So, if you want to buy me a gift card, I always appreciate Amazon, Garnet Hill, or LL Bean. THANKS IN ADVANCE. You know I'm kidding, Dear Readers. You presence is a gift in itself.
I wrote yesterday about how pre-holiday shopping excursions could be part of the gift. Mulling over earrings and perfumes with Miss Em is a lot of fun. Returning later to buy something I know she will like is also fun. Stress-free gifting! A great concept.
It occurred to me that gift cards and cash, which many find inappropriate at worst or unimaginative at best, could be factored into the shopping as gift concept (should I trademark???).
For instance, why not put $$$ into an envelope with a note: Let's go shopping on XX and you can pick out a gift?
Or, if you know where your recipient likes to shop, why not include a gift card with a similar note?
You could even do this across the miles. I wrote a little while ago about getting a new toaster oven with an Amazon card I was gifted. THANKS AGAIN, DEAR GIVER.
An un-anticipated advantage of this tactic is that your money can go farther. The recipient can choose a full-price item or can take advantage of the post-holiday sales.
So, if you want to buy me a gift card, I always appreciate Amazon, Garnet Hill, or LL Bean. THANKS IN ADVANCE. You know I'm kidding, Dear Readers. You presence is a gift in itself.
Thursday, 23 December 2010
Shopping can be the Gift: The Invention of Tradition
Shopping as Gift. A weird concept, is it not? Let me explain. I am hardly one to offer holiday tips, since my family (thanks, mostly, to me) is rather haphazard in the holiday department. What traditions we have are ad hoc and keep changing as we change.
So, for instance, Miss Em was enamored of fairy tales for many years. So each year, we would get her a beautifully illustrated book of fairy tales. These were met with happiness, so we continued. Till one holiday: a ho-hum response.
My favorite fairy tale book.
The next tradition developed by accident. We were at Zita's, which is mainly a head shop. She does have some jewelry appealing to the young (and lots of items for piercings--not that kind of jewelry). One year, Miss Em expressed a desire for something. I went back and bought it. She was happy.
The gift looked something like this.
In subsequent years, we returned to Zita's and other local gift shops. We were in search of the gift. So-no-there wasn't a real surprise, though I did purchase the item later. It occurred to me that the gift was not the receiving, but the hours of exploration beforehand, as Miss Em decided on her favorites. The hours were pleasant and stress-free. No Shopping ADD (thanks to Revanche for this useful term).
I can't imagine doing this with my son or husband! But for teenage girls, it seems perfect. At least for my girl.
Have you ever made shopping part of the gift?
P.S. According to historians, traditions can be, have been, and are invented! So we can do it too.
So, for instance, Miss Em was enamored of fairy tales for many years. So each year, we would get her a beautifully illustrated book of fairy tales. These were met with happiness, so we continued. Till one holiday: a ho-hum response.
My favorite fairy tale book.
The next tradition developed by accident. We were at Zita's, which is mainly a head shop. She does have some jewelry appealing to the young (and lots of items for piercings--not that kind of jewelry). One year, Miss Em expressed a desire for something. I went back and bought it. She was happy.
The gift looked something like this.
In subsequent years, we returned to Zita's and other local gift shops. We were in search of the gift. So-no-there wasn't a real surprise, though I did purchase the item later. It occurred to me that the gift was not the receiving, but the hours of exploration beforehand, as Miss Em decided on her favorites. The hours were pleasant and stress-free. No Shopping ADD (thanks to Revanche for this useful term).
I can't imagine doing this with my son or husband! But for teenage girls, it seems perfect. At least for my girl.
Have you ever made shopping part of the gift?
P.S. According to historians, traditions can be, have been, and are invented! So we can do it too.
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
How to Cook: An Answer
Not THE answer, of course. In my strolls through the blogosphere, not to mention real life, I am always meeting people with the same lament: I CAN'T COOK.
Helpful types are always proffering advice: Get Mark Bittman's cookbook. It's so easy. It's true. It is. But giving someone such a massive tome is often counterproductive: all those recipes are intimidating.
So here's how to begin, carnivore version. Get a slow cooker. Buy a piece of pot roast beef (chuck, brisket,whatever). Put it in the cooker with a little water and an onion. Too hard? Throw in some of that dried onion soup mix. Cook for a long time. This will give you enough for several meals.
Are you a vegetarian or a vegetarian wannabe? Mash up some beans (drain them!). Put on a tortilla with some cheese. Roll it up. Heat in the oven, the microwave, or in a pan. Serve with salsa.
See? It is not a big deal. If you eat both items, you have the basis for 3 meals--half the week.
If I had to recommend one cookbook for the timid cook, vegetarian or otherwise, it would be Jeanne Lemlin's Quick Vegetarian Pleasures. This is not as well known as other veggie cookbooks that, to my mind, are far inferior. (Mollie Katzen comes to mind.) Everything is good and easy. Many of her pastas and grain dishes are one-dish meals. Some are so simple: rice mixed with broccoli and feta, for instance.
The book is short so it doesn't provoke a panic attack or send one back to reading The Paradox of Choice.
If you MUST get the Bittman, this is what it looks like.
The Lemlin (or the Bittman, really) would make a great gift for the holidays. Lemlin lives in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, near where I visit every summer. I wonder if I've ever caught a glimpse of her strolling through the wonderful downtown.
Helpful types are always proffering advice: Get Mark Bittman's cookbook. It's so easy. It's true. It is. But giving someone such a massive tome is often counterproductive: all those recipes are intimidating.
So here's how to begin, carnivore version. Get a slow cooker. Buy a piece of pot roast beef (chuck, brisket,whatever). Put it in the cooker with a little water and an onion. Too hard? Throw in some of that dried onion soup mix. Cook for a long time. This will give you enough for several meals.
Are you a vegetarian or a vegetarian wannabe? Mash up some beans (drain them!). Put on a tortilla with some cheese. Roll it up. Heat in the oven, the microwave, or in a pan. Serve with salsa.
See? It is not a big deal. If you eat both items, you have the basis for 3 meals--half the week.
If I had to recommend one cookbook for the timid cook, vegetarian or otherwise, it would be Jeanne Lemlin's Quick Vegetarian Pleasures. This is not as well known as other veggie cookbooks that, to my mind, are far inferior. (Mollie Katzen comes to mind.) Everything is good and easy. Many of her pastas and grain dishes are one-dish meals. Some are so simple: rice mixed with broccoli and feta, for instance.
The book is short so it doesn't provoke a panic attack or send one back to reading The Paradox of Choice.
If you MUST get the Bittman, this is what it looks like.
The Lemlin (or the Bittman, really) would make a great gift for the holidays. Lemlin lives in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, near where I visit every summer. I wonder if I've ever caught a glimpse of her strolling through the wonderful downtown.
Thursday, 9 December 2010
The Best Gift for Children aged 5-14: Klutz Create Anything With Clay
Oh, I am a lazy girl. Here is another re-post from last year. Honestly, I don't have many good gift ideas. So when I have one, I have to re-use it--ditto for posts, I guess.
This is not a joke. I know what it is.
The Klutz Incredible Clay Book.*** EWRGH. This masterpiece is out-of-print??? Ok, then you must buy its successor: Create Anything with Clay.
This is under $20.00 and is a book filled with pictures of creations and a set of fimo (or sculpey) clay with which you can make anything in the book. Or whatever you want.
I know this from experience. I am not too good on gifts. Each year we used to go to Pasadena for the holidays, where we had to buy gifts for 3 nieces. Most of my efforts were ho-hum.
One year I gave the aforementioned Klutz book to one niece and watched the whole group of 5 children play with the clay for the whole day. And much of the rest.
The clay is in bright colors and flexible enough to make tiny things. Then you bake it in the oven (or toaster oven)* to harden. Why is it so much fun to make tiny hot dogs in buns with squiggles of mustard? Or tiny cabbages? I don't know why we are so delighted by miniatures, but it is so.**
My mother-in-law braved the post-Christmas crowds to buy MORE clay at the crafts store.
This became my go-to gift and it was always a hit. Even with my video-game addicted nephews.
I just thought of ANOTHER great gift. Stay tuned.
Do you have any foolproof gifts for kids?
*ANOTHER USE FOR THE TOASTER OVEN!
**An academic book that explores the miniature.
This is not a joke. I know what it is.
The Klutz Incredible Clay Book.*** EWRGH. This masterpiece is out-of-print??? Ok, then you must buy its successor: Create Anything with Clay.
This is under $20.00 and is a book filled with pictures of creations and a set of fimo (or sculpey) clay with which you can make anything in the book. Or whatever you want.
I know this from experience. I am not too good on gifts. Each year we used to go to Pasadena for the holidays, where we had to buy gifts for 3 nieces. Most of my efforts were ho-hum.
One year I gave the aforementioned Klutz book to one niece and watched the whole group of 5 children play with the clay for the whole day. And much of the rest.
The clay is in bright colors and flexible enough to make tiny things. Then you bake it in the oven (or toaster oven)* to harden. Why is it so much fun to make tiny hot dogs in buns with squiggles of mustard? Or tiny cabbages? I don't know why we are so delighted by miniatures, but it is so.**
My mother-in-law braved the post-Christmas crowds to buy MORE clay at the crafts store.
This became my go-to gift and it was always a hit. Even with my video-game addicted nephews.
I just thought of ANOTHER great gift. Stay tuned.
Do you have any foolproof gifts for kids?
*ANOTHER USE FOR THE TOASTER OVEN!
**An academic book that explores the miniature.
Monday, 6 December 2010
Standard Gifts: Preppy Style
How I happened upon a blog called Daily Prep is something of a mystery. Muffy Aldridge is a very good writer. She's one of those people absolutely certain of her opinion: Navy=YES, Black=NO. I look on such people with awe: I am so wishy-washy.
I have learned, from my occasional visit, that "I am not a preppy, nor was meant to be." I am disqualified by many things. My taste in colors is but one: my favorite colors to wear are black (a no-no), cobalt blue, purple, cranberry (also no-nos).
The other day I found news I can use, at least in the blogging department. It turns out that Standard Gifts may, in fact, receive the preppy seal of approval. Muffy LOVES key rings made by Leatherman. In her post, she presented an array of these as they awaited wrapping. They are so cute (I think that's a prep-approved word). Little whales, sail boats, and more, all in your choice of color.
Naturally, I felt I had to peruse the offerings. What would I choose? I am so non-preppy: I don't play tennis or golf. I don't know how to sail, although my father had a sail boat for many years. I didn't see any with books, which would have been perfect.
I know. A crab-themed key ring. Not because I go crabbing. Not because I like crab very much (other seafood is more to my taste).
You guessed it: because I am VERY CRABBY at the end of the semester.
I have learned, from my occasional visit, that "I am not a preppy, nor was meant to be." I am disqualified by many things. My taste in colors is but one: my favorite colors to wear are black (a no-no), cobalt blue, purple, cranberry (also no-nos).
The other day I found news I can use, at least in the blogging department. It turns out that Standard Gifts may, in fact, receive the preppy seal of approval. Muffy LOVES key rings made by Leatherman. In her post, she presented an array of these as they awaited wrapping. They are so cute (I think that's a prep-approved word). Little whales, sail boats, and more, all in your choice of color.
Naturally, I felt I had to peruse the offerings. What would I choose? I am so non-preppy: I don't play tennis or golf. I don't know how to sail, although my father had a sail boat for many years. I didn't see any with books, which would have been perfect.
I know. A crab-themed key ring. Not because I go crabbing. Not because I like crab very much (other seafood is more to my taste).
You guessed it: because I am VERY CRABBY at the end of the semester.
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Holiday Gifts for Children: Amy's Decision/Amy Dacyczyn
I was talking to a colleague, Amy, yesterday. She mentioned that she does not buy her two children (boys--aged 8 or so and 3???) Christmas gifts. She said, "We give $500.00 to charity each year and I send all the standard recipients (teachers,for instance) a note describing the charity."
WOW! I always think I am such a free-thinking, free-spirited, unconventional person. I guess not.
Here's what's interesting. She went on to say that her kids didn't mind. That they had tons of toys, all gifts from family and hand-me-downs from friends. AND THAT THEY STILL HAD TOO MUCH.
I opined that many material desires expressed by children are implanted by the parents. My colleague agreed. My children rarely asked for the latest toy, for instance. As I've said before, they would go to the homes of their friends to play with the "popular" toys, while the friends would come to our house and play with what we had. No complaints from anyone.
But NO HOLIDAY gifts for kids! What a concept! Amy Dacyczyn of Tightwad Gazette fame wrote about how she gave each of her six children a few new items each holiday accompanied by a few stashed yard sale finds. She wrote about how some people wrote accusing her of child abuse: kids deserve new toys, they said.
What do you think of my iconocalstic colleague's decision? And what about Amy Dacyczyn (pronounced decision)?
WOW! I always think I am such a free-thinking, free-spirited, unconventional person. I guess not.
Here's what's interesting. She went on to say that her kids didn't mind. That they had tons of toys, all gifts from family and hand-me-downs from friends. AND THAT THEY STILL HAD TOO MUCH.
I opined that many material desires expressed by children are implanted by the parents. My colleague agreed. My children rarely asked for the latest toy, for instance. As I've said before, they would go to the homes of their friends to play with the "popular" toys, while the friends would come to our house and play with what we had. No complaints from anyone.
But NO HOLIDAY gifts for kids! What a concept! Amy Dacyczyn of Tightwad Gazette fame wrote about how she gave each of her six children a few new items each holiday accompanied by a few stashed yard sale finds. She wrote about how some people wrote accusing her of child abuse: kids deserve new toys, they said.
What do you think of my iconocalstic colleague's decision? And what about Amy Dacyczyn (pronounced decision)?
Friday, 26 November 2010
My Black Friday....so far
I've never shopped on Black Friday. No, I take it back. We had a family tradition (now outgrown) of heading to New Orleans on Black Friday. We'd whiz past Lakeside Mall, which had nary a parking space to be seen, and headed to the Audubon Zoo, where we had a membership. The parking lot was always empty!
Then we would head to Bloomingdeals, the thrift store of the New Orleans Junior League, which had its annual toy sale.
This morning, though, I shopped. I had a few things on my NEEDS list and I decided to tune out the ads and look today. So now I have a new washing machine to replace the 20 year old one, whose top hinges have rusted off. AND a new microwave, to replace the one that is taking longer and longer to heat up my coffee.
I decided to be a satisficer and not go crazy with my usual indecision. Both items came to around $300 (yes, I bought a cheeeeep washer) and have free shipping.
Some emails I've gotten, if you feel like less utilitarian shopping.
Garnet Hill, the catalog I dream over, is having 40% off sale items AND free shipping!
LL Bean has free shipping, a $10 gift card if you spend $50 AND 10% off everything. That last is applied automatically.
Cuddledown, whose comforters I swoon over, has 25% off everything, today only. I also swoon over their $3000.00 beds, but such will not happen today...or probably ever.
I do need some milk, so I may head out to a brick-and-mortar grocery later. Groceries are quite forlorn and desolate the day after Thanksgiving.
Hope everyone is having a cozy day.
Then we would head to Bloomingdeals, the thrift store of the New Orleans Junior League, which had its annual toy sale.
This morning, though, I shopped. I had a few things on my NEEDS list and I decided to tune out the ads and look today. So now I have a new washing machine to replace the 20 year old one, whose top hinges have rusted off. AND a new microwave, to replace the one that is taking longer and longer to heat up my coffee.
I decided to be a satisficer and not go crazy with my usual indecision. Both items came to around $300 (yes, I bought a cheeeeep washer) and have free shipping.
Some emails I've gotten, if you feel like less utilitarian shopping.
Garnet Hill, the catalog I dream over, is having 40% off sale items AND free shipping!
LL Bean has free shipping, a $10 gift card if you spend $50 AND 10% off everything. That last is applied automatically.
Cuddledown, whose comforters I swoon over, has 25% off everything, today only. I also swoon over their $3000.00 beds, but such will not happen today...or probably ever.
I do need some milk, so I may head out to a brick-and-mortar grocery later. Groceries are quite forlorn and desolate the day after Thanksgiving.
Hope everyone is having a cozy day.
Thursday, 25 November 2010
No-Stress Thanksgiving: The Menu
I don't find Thanksgiving all that stressful. It is a low cost meal and the traditional items are EASY. I used to make the beautiful vegetable purees from The Silver Palate Cookbook, but no more. I hate cleaning the food processer.
We decided to spread the side dishes out over two days; this met with approval from the visiting children.
I did manage to spread some Thanksgiving cheer, by developing (extemporaneously, in a split second) the easiest menu imaginable. I wended my way to CVS this morning to get some of their fantastic freebies. While there, I said hi to Gary, one of my favorite former students. Then I checked out.
The woman at the register told me her meal was being prepared by her mother and daughter. She told me she couldn't cook. In fact, she got that panicked look that one gets encountering something that most people find easy but that brings chills and fear and inevitable failure. (This is different for everyone. For me, it's directions. For Mr. FS, it's matching shirt to pants. Whatever.)
I told her what to do: Heat your oven and when it's 350 degrees, put the turkey in. Basting is unnecessary. After a while, put in some sweet potatoes and white potatoes. They will take a bit over an hour. When the turkey skin is brownish, take it out and check. It won't take as long as you think if you don't baste. Open a can of cranberry sauce. Prepare a salad using one of those mixes at the grocery that come with dressing and all. Buy something for dessert.
In all my years of teaching, I have never seen a light bulb moment like I did with my cashier. She told me that she would try next year.
My menu is more complex, of course, but the above menu follows the 80/20 ratio of the Pareto Principle, whereby you get 80% of the benefit from 20% of the effort.
I guess I should have told her to buy some stuffing mix too. Oops!
Have a good day everybody.
We decided to spread the side dishes out over two days; this met with approval from the visiting children.
I did manage to spread some Thanksgiving cheer, by developing (extemporaneously, in a split second) the easiest menu imaginable. I wended my way to CVS this morning to get some of their fantastic freebies. While there, I said hi to Gary, one of my favorite former students. Then I checked out.
The woman at the register told me her meal was being prepared by her mother and daughter. She told me she couldn't cook. In fact, she got that panicked look that one gets encountering something that most people find easy but that brings chills and fear and inevitable failure. (This is different for everyone. For me, it's directions. For Mr. FS, it's matching shirt to pants. Whatever.)
I told her what to do: Heat your oven and when it's 350 degrees, put the turkey in. Basting is unnecessary. After a while, put in some sweet potatoes and white potatoes. They will take a bit over an hour. When the turkey skin is brownish, take it out and check. It won't take as long as you think if you don't baste. Open a can of cranberry sauce. Prepare a salad using one of those mixes at the grocery that come with dressing and all. Buy something for dessert.
In all my years of teaching, I have never seen a light bulb moment like I did with my cashier. She told me that she would try next year.
My menu is more complex, of course, but the above menu follows the 80/20 ratio of the Pareto Principle, whereby you get 80% of the benefit from 20% of the effort.
I guess I should have told her to buy some stuffing mix too. Oops!
Have a good day everybody.
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Chocolate-Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Coconut Milk
I love finding recipes that use things I already have and NEED TO USE UP. The bread pudding below (copied from New York Times) was part of a feature on a vegan Thanksgiving. The coconut milk subs for the dairy--milk and eggs--that makes a bread pudding bread pudding.
Has anyone tried this? Does it sound tempting to you?
Chloe Coscarelli’s
Chocolate-Pumpkin Bread Pudding
This warm pumpkin bread pudding has a dash of spice and is studded with chocolate chips. It’s a rich and creamy dessert that’s free of dairy and eggs but will leave everyone feeling indulged.
1 cup coconut milk
1 15 ounce can organic pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar (can use maple syrup)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon cloves
10 cups cubed day-old bread of your choice (about 10 to 12 slices of sandwich bread, depending on the thickness of slices)
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (Guittard and Ghirardelli are among those that are nondairy)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 14 4-ounce ramekins (single-serving ceramic dishes) or a 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking dish.
2. In a blender, process coconut milk, pumpkin, brown sugar, salt and spices until smooth. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with the pumpkin mixture and chocolate chips until each bread cube is coated.
3. If using ramekins: Evenly sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar into the bottom of each greased ramekin. Fill each ramekin to the top with the mixture and lightly press it down with the back of a spoon. If using a 9-by-13 baking dish: Fill the baking dish with the mixture and lightly press it down with the back of a spoon. Evenly sprinkle about 2 tablespoons brown sugar over the top of the bread pudding. The brown sugar will help the pudding to caramelize on the edges. (Steps 1 through 3 can be done up to three days in advance; store covered in the refrigerator.)
4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until top is lightly browned. If using ramekins: Let the pudding cool a few minutes, then carve around the edges with a knife to loosen and unmold. Garnish with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm. If using a 9-by-13 baking dish: Let the pudding cool a few minutes before serving. Cut into portions, then garnish with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm. The pudding can be baked right before serving or earlier that day and then reheated for 8 to 10 more minutes right before serving.
Yield: Serves 14.
Or should I make the traditional (in my family) pumpkin brulee?
Has anyone tried this? Does it sound tempting to you?
Chloe Coscarelli’s
Chocolate-Pumpkin Bread Pudding
This warm pumpkin bread pudding has a dash of spice and is studded with chocolate chips. It’s a rich and creamy dessert that’s free of dairy and eggs but will leave everyone feeling indulged.
1 cup coconut milk
1 15 ounce can organic pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar (can use maple syrup)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon cloves
10 cups cubed day-old bread of your choice (about 10 to 12 slices of sandwich bread, depending on the thickness of slices)
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (Guittard and Ghirardelli are among those that are nondairy)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 14 4-ounce ramekins (single-serving ceramic dishes) or a 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking dish.
2. In a blender, process coconut milk, pumpkin, brown sugar, salt and spices until smooth. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with the pumpkin mixture and chocolate chips until each bread cube is coated.
3. If using ramekins: Evenly sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar into the bottom of each greased ramekin. Fill each ramekin to the top with the mixture and lightly press it down with the back of a spoon. If using a 9-by-13 baking dish: Fill the baking dish with the mixture and lightly press it down with the back of a spoon. Evenly sprinkle about 2 tablespoons brown sugar over the top of the bread pudding. The brown sugar will help the pudding to caramelize on the edges. (Steps 1 through 3 can be done up to three days in advance; store covered in the refrigerator.)
4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until top is lightly browned. If using ramekins: Let the pudding cool a few minutes, then carve around the edges with a knife to loosen and unmold. Garnish with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm. If using a 9-by-13 baking dish: Let the pudding cool a few minutes before serving. Cut into portions, then garnish with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm. The pudding can be baked right before serving or earlier that day and then reheated for 8 to 10 more minutes right before serving.
Yield: Serves 14.
Or should I make the traditional (in my family) pumpkin brulee?
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
The Best Gifts for Kids 3-8
Even though I'm bad at gifts, I do know several excellent gifts for kids 3-8. These are not the kinds of gifts that will cause a moment of ecstasy when the wrapping is torn off. In fact, they might get a rather low-key response....or even be ignored. But long after Tickle-Me Elmo is in the donation box, your recipients will be playing with these. In fact, if you take cost-per-play (based, of course, on the cost-per-wear concept), these items are practically free.
1. UNIT BLOCKS. I bought these when my kids were little and they were played with every day for 8 or so years. They became roads, puppet theaters, and Noah's Ark. Make sure you get UNIT BLOCKS (this will embed math in your child's head); mine were maple. Twenty years ago, my set of 60 cost over $100.00. I got mine from a school supplier. Like many other things, these are now available from Amazon and are cheaper, perhaps for ecological and economic reasons that might upset us.
2. PATTERN BLOCKS. These make fantastic patterns and provide hours of fascinating play. These are fun for adults too.
3. CUBE BLOCKS. These were a particular favorite of Miss Em, who called them quilt blocks. Here is something similar.
All you need for the rest of the childhood years are a few dolls/animals, some plastic animals, some little cars or similar. Maybe a marble run.
4. OK. Can't resist that memory. Get a marble run too. You need to watch the little ones with the marbles, however.
And remember: GOOD art supplies. Your children can play with the toys du jour when they visit their friends. Their friends can play with the blocks at your house.
With the money you save on toys, you can .... do something wonderful. Your choice.
Any other good ideas?
1. UNIT BLOCKS. I bought these when my kids were little and they were played with every day for 8 or so years. They became roads, puppet theaters, and Noah's Ark. Make sure you get UNIT BLOCKS (this will embed math in your child's head); mine were maple. Twenty years ago, my set of 60 cost over $100.00. I got mine from a school supplier. Like many other things, these are now available from Amazon and are cheaper, perhaps for ecological and economic reasons that might upset us.
2. PATTERN BLOCKS. These make fantastic patterns and provide hours of fascinating play. These are fun for adults too.
3. CUBE BLOCKS. These were a particular favorite of Miss Em, who called them quilt blocks. Here is something similar.
All you need for the rest of the childhood years are a few dolls/animals, some plastic animals, some little cars or similar. Maybe a marble run.
4. OK. Can't resist that memory. Get a marble run too. You need to watch the little ones with the marbles, however.
And remember: GOOD art supplies. Your children can play with the toys du jour when they visit their friends. Their friends can play with the blocks at your house.
With the money you save on toys, you can .... do something wonderful. Your choice.
Any other good ideas?
Sunday, 14 November 2010
Another Standard Gift: Recommended by Experts
While the standard gift may be scoffed at by people for whom gift giving is a pleasure, for those of us who--to be plain--suck at gifts, a list of good ones would come as a relief.
I just remembered a standard gift suggested by two eminent tastemakers: Chuck Williams of Williams-Sonoma fame and Ina Garten of Barefoot Contessa fame. As it happens, they recommended the same gift. I read interviews with these luminaries. Each featured the same question: What do you recommend for a wedding gift. Each said they gave a set of French glass bowls to all newlyweds. I checked Williams-Sonoma and they now carry an American version of the iconic bowls.
However, you can still find the French version, which, of course, is oozing with je ne sais quoi.
Here is another standard gift I would love to receive. Since I--and presumably most others--did not receive a set at my wedding, I would be happy to get these for holiday or birthday.
Would you? Keep gift suggestions coming, please.
I just remembered a standard gift suggested by two eminent tastemakers: Chuck Williams of Williams-Sonoma fame and Ina Garten of Barefoot Contessa fame. As it happens, they recommended the same gift. I read interviews with these luminaries. Each featured the same question: What do you recommend for a wedding gift. Each said they gave a set of French glass bowls to all newlyweds. I checked Williams-Sonoma and they now carry an American version of the iconic bowls.
However, you can still find the French version, which, of course, is oozing with je ne sais quoi.
Here is another standard gift I would love to receive. Since I--and presumably most others--did not receive a set at my wedding, I would be happy to get these for holiday or birthday.
Would you? Keep gift suggestions coming, please.
Saturday, 13 November 2010
Standard Gifts: Easy Gifts for the Holidays, Too Easy?
I first encountered the concept of the standard gift in the very first organizing book I ever read: Totally Organized.
As I recall, the author mentioned that she had a standard gift for weddings: first, monogrammed pillowcases, and, since she wrote the book, a copy of her book! What a good idea.
When my children were little, the great bargain mecca in my area was a Scholastic Book warehouse sale. This was sort of a secret and open only to teachers. Someone told me about it; I called; and yes, college teachers were eligible. In truth, the sale was open to anyone who knew about it.
One feature of this sale was the "Fill Your Box for $25.00" area. You can get a lot of books--not to mention small educational toys--in a box. These treasures filled our gift shelf for years, saving us time and money.
Since I am not a gift-giving diva like my blogfriend Duchesse or my real-life friend Brigitte, both of whose choices amaze me with their brilliance, I must rely on the one or two sure-fire gifts in my repertoire.
For youngish men, I've already recommended (AT LEAST 5 TIMES) the great pen.
For youngish folk in general, I recommend the Rick Steves travel pack. I got one for Frugal Son a few years ago and may get one (shhhhhh) for Miss Em. Perfect for going abroad.
Garnet Hill, a catalog I've been mooning over for many years, has a good deal for folks of all ages: a cotton fleece throw. At the moment it is half price ($30) and has free monogramming. It comes in yummy colors and would be a wonderful gift for children, teenagers,and so on. It would even be a wonderful gift for ME. That's saying a lot, since I hate getting gifts as a rule.
Do you give standard gifts?
As I recall, the author mentioned that she had a standard gift for weddings: first, monogrammed pillowcases, and, since she wrote the book, a copy of her book! What a good idea.
When my children were little, the great bargain mecca in my area was a Scholastic Book warehouse sale. This was sort of a secret and open only to teachers. Someone told me about it; I called; and yes, college teachers were eligible. In truth, the sale was open to anyone who knew about it.
One feature of this sale was the "Fill Your Box for $25.00" area. You can get a lot of books--not to mention small educational toys--in a box. These treasures filled our gift shelf for years, saving us time and money.
Since I am not a gift-giving diva like my blogfriend Duchesse or my real-life friend Brigitte, both of whose choices amaze me with their brilliance, I must rely on the one or two sure-fire gifts in my repertoire.
For youngish men, I've already recommended (AT LEAST 5 TIMES) the great pen.
For youngish folk in general, I recommend the Rick Steves travel pack. I got one for Frugal Son a few years ago and may get one (shhhhhh) for Miss Em. Perfect for going abroad.
Garnet Hill, a catalog I've been mooning over for many years, has a good deal for folks of all ages: a cotton fleece throw. At the moment it is half price ($30) and has free monogramming. It comes in yummy colors and would be a wonderful gift for children, teenagers,and so on. It would even be a wonderful gift for ME. That's saying a lot, since I hate getting gifts as a rule.
Do you give standard gifts?
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Ready for Gift Giving? Young Male Edition
Well, I lucked out. I am bad at gifts to begin with, plus my kids say "Nothing" when I ask. (Funny, that's what I say in all sincerity.)
Frugal Son has a triple-whammy coming up: holiday, birthday, graduation. He mentioned that his friend Michael is spending next semester in Argentina and that he would like to visit during Spring Break. I said, "How about a plane ticket as our gift to you?" This elicited a smiley emoticon: SUCCESS!
If a ticket to Argentina is not on the radar screen for the guy in your life, how about my standard suggestion for any occasion, including graduation: the LAMY SAFARI pen. I have recommended this before, and will continue to do so. You can't go wrong with this one, whether for stocking stuffer or what you will.
My son picked yellow, but the other colors--including clear--are nice too.
Any other ideas, dear readers?
Frugal Son has a triple-whammy coming up: holiday, birthday, graduation. He mentioned that his friend Michael is spending next semester in Argentina and that he would like to visit during Spring Break. I said, "How about a plane ticket as our gift to you?" This elicited a smiley emoticon: SUCCESS!
If a ticket to Argentina is not on the radar screen for the guy in your life, how about my standard suggestion for any occasion, including graduation: the LAMY SAFARI pen. I have recommended this before, and will continue to do so. You can't go wrong with this one, whether for stocking stuffer or what you will.
My son picked yellow, but the other colors--including clear--are nice too.
Any other ideas, dear readers?
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Frugal FRIDA ; Frugal FASHIONISTA
My posting has been sparse, I must admit. I've been a little sick; semester has reached a stressful point; and today my dear daughter is visiting with a friend.
So, check out said daughter's frugal Frida Kahlo Halloween costume.
And for you fashionistas out there. I accompanied daughter and friend to United Apparel Liquidators, aka the best store in the whole world. There, I saw a new shipment of ELM DESIGN for between $40 and $120. I also saw some Dries van Noten ballet flats. My daughter bought a pair of pants for $8.00.
Then we hit Goodwill. I was not looking very seriously, but nonetheless came upon a Gerard Darel linen jacket. How the heck do these things show up in my sleepy town? Daughter didn't buy the jacket, but did buy a Gary Graham blouse. It was a sample, dated 2006, made of lace and silk. Totally gorgeous. We had never heard of the brand, but sprung for it ($3.00 with my discount). Once again: how the heck do these obscure brands end up in Goodwill?
I dropped daughter and friend off at tiny local restaurant, with some cash to treat themselves to lunch. I came home for my own lunch.
How wonderful these visits are! And blogfriends: you are invited for a day of shopping and a little lunch. Come on down.
So, check out said daughter's frugal Frida Kahlo Halloween costume.
And for you fashionistas out there. I accompanied daughter and friend to United Apparel Liquidators, aka the best store in the whole world. There, I saw a new shipment of ELM DESIGN for between $40 and $120. I also saw some Dries van Noten ballet flats. My daughter bought a pair of pants for $8.00.
Then we hit Goodwill. I was not looking very seriously, but nonetheless came upon a Gerard Darel linen jacket. How the heck do these things show up in my sleepy town? Daughter didn't buy the jacket, but did buy a Gary Graham blouse. It was a sample, dated 2006, made of lace and silk. Totally gorgeous. We had never heard of the brand, but sprung for it ($3.00 with my discount). Once again: how the heck do these obscure brands end up in Goodwill?
I dropped daughter and friend off at tiny local restaurant, with some cash to treat themselves to lunch. I came home for my own lunch.
How wonderful these visits are! And blogfriends: you are invited for a day of shopping and a little lunch. Come on down.
Friday, 5 November 2010
King Arthur Flour Cheap, with a Catch
Those who bake, like Mr. FS, sing the praises of King Arthur flour. It is expensive, though it sometimes goes on sale around the big baking holidays, like Thanksgiving.
What's a frequent baker to do? Get it where the bakers get it: from a wholesale supplier. What's the catch? You need to buy it in 50 lb sacks.
First, go to the King Arthur website. Then, go to the bottom of the page "For Professional Bakers."
Then, find your local distributor. Mine is Koerner and Company in New Orleans. Yes, they will sell to individuals. A 50 lb. sack of King Arthur is around $20.00, depending on what kind you choose.
Some things I cannot buy because of the quantities required: no, I cannot buy a 24-pack of yeast. But, oh, what a wonderful gift for Frugal Son: a tub of duck fat!
Bon appetit! Do you have any wonderful sources for ingredients?
What's a frequent baker to do? Get it where the bakers get it: from a wholesale supplier. What's the catch? You need to buy it in 50 lb sacks.
First, go to the King Arthur website. Then, go to the bottom of the page "For Professional Bakers."
Then, find your local distributor. Mine is Koerner and Company in New Orleans. Yes, they will sell to individuals. A 50 lb. sack of King Arthur is around $20.00, depending on what kind you choose.
Some things I cannot buy because of the quantities required: no, I cannot buy a 24-pack of yeast. But, oh, what a wonderful gift for Frugal Son: a tub of duck fat!
Bon appetit! Do you have any wonderful sources for ingredients?
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
Frugal Last-Minute Halloween Costumes
As an extremely self-conscious and awkward person, I flee from costume occasions. However, I have a daughter who is neither of the above and who prides herself on costuming creativity. So...here are two of her ideas, presented here without her permission. Please do not make use of these ideas if you are going to a Halloween party in Tuscaloosa.
Idea 1: FRIDA KAHLO. A genius idea! Miss Em has been pining for an embroidered Mexican dress for a long time. I kept saying that I could find one in a thrift store. Then, after years of no success, I encouraged her to go out with an adorable exchange student from Mexico. This year, within a week, I found two Mexican dresses at Goodwill, where they are classed as nightgowns, and so sell for $1.99. With a unibrow, drawn-on or natural, your costume is complete.
Idea 2: WOOD NYMPH. This was Miss Em's costume last year. All you need are some artificial flowers, some real leaves, some brown and green clothing. And--this is the hard part--a good hand with makeup. Check out Miss Em and her two beautiful friends here.
Honestly, I don't know where this costume genius comes from. EVERY YEAR I had to be a beatnik: my mother supplied me with a big sweater and a cigarette (!) in a holder (!).
Do you have any ideas for frugal Halloween costumes?
Idea 1: FRIDA KAHLO. A genius idea! Miss Em has been pining for an embroidered Mexican dress for a long time. I kept saying that I could find one in a thrift store. Then, after years of no success, I encouraged her to go out with an adorable exchange student from Mexico. This year, within a week, I found two Mexican dresses at Goodwill, where they are classed as nightgowns, and so sell for $1.99. With a unibrow, drawn-on or natural, your costume is complete.
Idea 2: WOOD NYMPH. This was Miss Em's costume last year. All you need are some artificial flowers, some real leaves, some brown and green clothing. And--this is the hard part--a good hand with makeup. Check out Miss Em and her two beautiful friends here.
Honestly, I don't know where this costume genius comes from. EVERY YEAR I had to be a beatnik: my mother supplied me with a big sweater and a cigarette (!) in a holder (!).
Do you have any ideas for frugal Halloween costumes?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)