hanna @ home

Sorry Neglected Blog

2011-07-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry blog and loyal readers. I would like to say that I have been drinking those. Moijtos with fresh mint from the garden and brown sugar simple syrup. Try it, I like it a lot better than white sugar simple syrup, there is a much better depth to the flavor.

But really I've been working very hard doing my very first craft show. You can read all about it here. It looked something like this:

Besides the show I was also doing some freelance work and working full time at an amusement park. So I think a little R and R with some mojitos is next on my to do list. And then I will get back to more regular blog posts.

Book of the Ever So Often

2011-06-02T06:33:00.001-07:00

School is finally out. So that means I have some free time for some relaxing summer reading. On of the first books I picked up was Orange is New Black, by Piper Kerman. This is a really interesting look into what life is like in prison. Kerman shares all the details of her life before and during her sentence and conveys all the fear and shame she feels. But the story is not all black, the highs of the generosity of her fellow prisoners and the sense of community keep Kerman supported throughout her stay.

The book also offers an interesting look at the justice system and raises some questions about punishment. As well, the Kerman questions the transition program out of prison and how few resources ex-prisoners are given once they get out. Its hard enough to find a job, let alone if you have few skills and a criminal record.

This unique look into life on the inside, makes you all the more glad for life on the outside.

Summer Bake Off

2011-05-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

I don't believe in baking in the summer. If the outside temperature feels like an oven I just can't bring myself to turn on my oven indoors. It just seems wrong. So every year before the summer off-season, I bake as much as I can to stock the freezer and my stomach with as many carbs as possible. This year I've made muffins (some actually made it to freezing) and bagels (all eaten before freezing) and am making banana bread today. But with the warm weather fast approaching, I am expecting to crank it out over the next two weeks or so.

I will spend my off-season doing cross-training with other equipment, like the BBQ. I hear good things about BBQ'ed pies. I'll also spend time in the sauna, ie gardening outdoors which will help train my respiratory system. And I'll probably add in some strength training to round out my program. This should involve carrying the food to the BBQ and lifting the cover. And then I'll be back stronger than ever for the regular season, starting in Fall 2011.

I am not a crazy cat lady - Part 2

2011-05-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

I am not a crazy cat lady but if I were, which I have already established I am not... But if I were I would make all the toys for my cats. So with a little spare time this afternoon and some scrap fabric and embroidery thread, I got to work.

The first two are made by cutting a rectangle out of leftover wool felt and a quick embroidery stitch around the edges. Before finishing the edges I stuffed the toys with scrap batting to give some shape and catnip. Both toys no longer look this good after a little bit of this:

And a little bit more of this:

So then I made a fish cutting out the shape out of two different colors of of felt and again a quick stitch around the edges. I trimmed the edges with pinking shears and I stuffed the toys with scrap batting to give some shape and catnip. It used to looks nice like this:

I made one more toy, this one also out of craft felt but stuffed with rice. The rice adds nice weight to cat toys which makes it easier to throw. Key if your cats like to chase toys like mine do.

But not to worry all of the toys will survive for a little while longer because all of the hard work playing led to this:

And I am pretty sure my Art Student owl would say how a year studying textiles would qualify me to do nothing except make cat toys.

And Now with Ns

2011-05-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

Despite a few minor technical issues, my keyboard is now working again. The N key took a brief vacation. I tried to write without using many N's but that wad a lot more trouble than it was worth. And there are a lot of N's in a lot of words... But now thankfully to my IT support (my husband) all the letters are back. More school projects to come and check out Quilt Kitchen www.quiltkitchen.com to see how I spent my weekend.

I am not a crazy cat lady

2011-04-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

But if I were a crazy cat lady I would make art for my cats. And just in case I head down that road in the future, I decided to sneak in a little practice now. Its my back up plan. Actually its more like Plan F, but let's not get technical.

So here is my cat Oscar posing for his camera portrait:

And here he is made out of felt:

Sometimes with school projects, you just have to make something. And after my first attempt with felted pockets for a variation on this project bombed completely, I had to start fresh. So I decided to go with something I thought would be quick (it wasn't) and easy (it wasn't). But in the end his little fluffy head translated nicely onto the fluffy felt.

Another project

2011-04-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

This project was for a book assignment in one of my design classes. And if there is ever an opportunity, I will try and work quilting into at least one project per class. So I made a quilted book. The book follows the pieces of a log cabin pattern falling into place over the course of 16 panels. Each panel is 16 cm square and there are a total of 16 pieces, for a nice play on numbers. The log cabin pieces are made of felt and were quilted onto the pages. The pages were made using the same technique as I did for my previous book, were you make a pouch and then flip it right side out and quilt around the edges.

Then out of felt, I made a quick cover for the book to tie the whole thing together. The cover took the least amount of time out of the project but really finished the piece nicely. As you can see here,

It was a nice overall look and a good challenge, I never made a quilted book before.

More Work, Self Portrait

2011-03-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Here's another example of my homework. This is a self portrait in two techniques.The top half is done with stencils and silk screening making for clean precise line. The bottom half of the card is done with stamping, so a more soft and blurry effect. The contrast suited the piece well and since there was no rule that the two portraits couldn't touch or be on the same piece of fabric, the playing card design nicely met the project criteria.

More School Projects

2011-03-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

I have been busy with school work. Here is another example of my work from last semester. I used open and exposed screens to hand silk screen this pattern. I love the vintage feel and the almost film strip like look to the piece. Its about 1 m by 1 m so its not small. I still would like the hem the edges but in the meantime it doesn't look too bad at all in the living room.

This is my third hot air balloon piece and I am starting to think I have a thing for the balloons. Not sure why... But I do remember loving the piecees that Jay McCarroll used in his post Project Runway show and I saw in the documentary Eleven Minutes.

You can see my first hot air balloon quilt here
And another hot air balloon fabric that I am currently making into a quilt here

Team Nap

2011-03-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

Making Patterns

2011-03-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

I love pattern. I almost love it as much as I love texture. And when you have both, I am a happy textile student. Above is one of the very first patterns I made. You can see the very first over repeat pattern I made over at the Quilt Kitchen. I turned some left over fabric into a quick gift bag for a birthday present.

Above is a ginkgo leaf inspired pattern. I used a different color palette for the final piece but I really liked the blues as well. I kind of want to sneak back into school and do the pattern again with green leaves. In the meantime, I will have to settle for this sample.

Wire Scissors

2011-03-01T15:52:00.001-08:00

These are another school project where we had to make an object out of wire. I chose scissors, as they are relevant to my studies. They are sew appropriate (insert grumbling laughter here). And although I wouldn't want to cut anything with them, it would be more like squishing something repeatedly, they do actually open and close as if you were cutting.

More school and craft projects to come...

Laptop Case

2011-02-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Sorry for my recent lack of posting but not to worry as there has been plenty of work going on. First up, I just recently made this laptop case. It has a felted top, bottom and sides for protection. I knitted the wool myself and then felted it in the washing machine. I combined that with a double sides jersey, next time I would pick a sturdier fabric than the jersey. But overall I got a nice look and protected laptop cover.

But that's not all. It seems to be misinterpreted recently. One vote for cat bed:

And second vote for cat bed:

What do you think? Help me outnumber the cats!

My Favorite Reference Books

2011-01-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

For the next few weeks, as promised I will bring back some of my favorite quilting resource books. I don't use this book often for inspiration but I do reference it regularly for tips and techniques. The variety of styles incorporated makes this my go to book or quilt encyclopedia. I've had this book for many years and the page on bindings shows the wear from regular referencing. Its a good resource but does not offer a lot of quilt patterns but rather the techniques to help you get your own pattern finished. It is a great reference tool for future projects.

Next week: more references

Welcome to 2011

2011-01-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

2011 looks to be a promising year with lots of projects going for school. And I'll be brining you the a few ways I've applied them into my own work. And its the release of Yoshiko Jinzenji's new book, Quilting Line and Color. I promise to do a review once I get my copy. I confess to already pre-ordering the bookt just to make sure. I talked about Yoshiko's last book here

And you can see my first project inpired by sashiko here.

But in the meantime, I'll be bringing you my favorite quilting reference books and a peak at all the printing I did for Christmas.

Warmest Wishes

2010-12-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

Wishing you more warmth than a cat on a radiator this holiday season. Enjoy the holidays and I'll back be in 2011 with more quilts, quotes and crafts.

Quote Collection

2010-12-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

What may be done at any time will be done at no time.

Scottish Proverb

This rings very true for me and a lot of people I know. There is nothing like a firm deadline (Christmas!) to make sure things get done.

I've got presents in the making, vodka infusing with fruit and a very busy time at school. But with all the deadline things are getting done. However, things that are not on a specific deadline, for instance a quilt I have mostly done but not quite is waiting around. It may get done after the holidays but as it could be done any time, its still waiting to get done.

Collecting interesting quotes has interested me for a while. So when I got an assignment to find a quote I was quite excited. I will share the finished result once its ready. Look for it in the next few weeks...

Elf Printing Workshop

2010-12-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I set up my very first attempt at printing on fabric in my home. So far, so good. You can see my tests above, which will turn into Christmas presents. Some of the patterns are from stamps I used for printing in school and some are tests from other projects. Its nice to be able to use some of the ideas that didn't work out for school projects in a different way. Check back after Christmas to see the final products and a brief tutorial on the completed projects.

I just hope this won't ruin any surprises Christmas morning.

An Even Better Deal

2010-12-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays:

Chronicle has a really nice selection of craft books. I've talked about a couple of my favorites here and here and here. These make great gifts for the crafter on your holiday gift list or for inspiration for gifts to make for others.

Button Box

2010-11-22T08:55:00.000-08:00

Vintage buttons have long been an interest of mine but it wasn't until I inherited my Grandmother's collection that I actually had any of my very own. The collection is probably older than my grandmother and contains some old buttons actually made out of shell rather than plastic ones like they are today. The box is an old tin box and has some wear and tear but still holds the collection, although it seems the collection has grown while the box has stayed the same size.

The only problem with the collection is that there are very few sets of buttons and a fair amount of one offs. So I decided to design my Christmas stockings to showcase some of these unique buttons and help pare down the collection. I hope the stocking bring lots of Holiday cheer!

The Holiday Shop is...

2010-11-18T13:58:00.001-08:00

Now open for business! My team of elves has been hard at work creating this one of a kind stockings.

Click here to check out my collection of hand made stockings available on Etsy. Each one has a button from my inherited colection of vintage buttons. More items coming soon!

Christmas Crafts

2010-11-11T07:31:00.001-08:00

Quick note, I am still alive. Working hard and about to launch my very first holiday shop.

I am pushing my team of elves to the limits, ok really its just me trying to get my Etsy shop launched. Target date is next week.

Above is a quick sneak peak of the stockings I will be offering. Each one is unique and combines a vintage button and is made from my very own pattern. Some stockings, like the one above also use vintage fabrics while some are mostly new fabrics. Can't wait to show them all! Check back next week for the progress report and hopefully the show launch!

Book of the Month - The Happiness Project

2010-10-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

I've been following the website "The Happiness Project" for a while and decided it was about time to sit down and read the book. And I'm glad I did. Gretchen Rubin's study of what makes people happy and what doesn't was fascinating. Her non-scientific but extremely thorough review of happiness's research provided a great many insights into some of my own bad habits and maybe a few bad habits of other people. For instance, often when feeling blue people will indulge in a treat of some kind, whether it be comfort food or skipping a workout or watching some bad TV (not that I would ever do anything of those things). But studies show this actually makes you feel worse because people now feel guilty after the treat than they did before the treat. Instead try do things like get some exercise, fresh air or tackling something you don't want to do (dishes) will put you back in a better mood and more able to handle your day.

The book is jammed packed with helpful advice and Rubin struggles to keep her happiness resolutions and aims for a higher quality of life. She often says "The days are long but the years are short" and I couldn't agree more.

New in Quilting - Great Eco Friendly Fabrics

2010-09-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

Eco friendly fabrics have been around for a little while but finally there are many options beyond a standard unbleached cotton. Shown above are Mod Buds from WonderFluff, Woodland Chain in Pool by Eden fabrics and Teal Circles by monaluna at Harts Fabric. I love the turquoise and brown color combinations and might just use this as a future color palette for some quilts.

Cloud 9 Fabrics, is leader in this area and its worthwhile to check out their collections. I love the eco friendly options and am also looking forward to trying some of the organic battings now available.

Quilting for Change - Update

2010-09-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick shot of the three blocks I sent to the Global Quilt Project. They are a combination of a prototype I was using for a pattern I developed for my store and some scrap fabrics left over from previous quilts. The scrap fabrics used some vintage fabrics and some new fabrics, a nice combination for the quilt and for the cause.

You can check out their site here to see more about the cause and if you want to donate.

Book of the Month (Or Even So Often) - Ignore Everybody

2010-09-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Any book that gives me the excuse to be both creative and ignore other people, is a good read as far as I am concerned.

But this book goes a little beyond just that and provides practical advice for creatives in all fields. The author started working in advertising but found a passion for creating cartoons on business cards. The smart and sometimes sad cartoons depict everyday life whether it be at work, at a bar or the dating scene.

The book is filled with cartoons and relates advice to different topics relating to creating your work. I particularly like the advice on doing something you love for part of your time and doing something else to make money the rest of the time. This allows your passion to be free and takes the pressure off your creativity while still bring home the bacon.
Its a light easy read and great idea for anyone in a creative field.

September Means...

2010-09-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

Its back to school time. I have just finished my first few days of classes at Sheridan College. Drawing class seems easier than expected although still quite a challenge. I can't wait to apply what I have learned to my quilts. And to go shopping for school supplies, no text books here but I do need pencils, sketch books and paints.

I couldn't wait to take a bite out of my back to school brownies from my husband, but here's a picture anyway.

Talk the Talk, Walk the Catwalk - part 4

2010-09-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

Still posing. Still working the camera...

Quilting for Change

2010-08-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

Hisorically quilting has been a way to bring people together to make useful objects. The Global Quilt Project for Central Africa Republic is carrying on that idea and asking for quilters from across the world (a pretty large quilting bee) to contribute 12 by 12 or 9 1/2 by 9 1/2 inch squares for their project.
The squares will be sewn together and auctioned off to raise money for the building of two toilets in a scholl in the Central Africa Republic.
Check out their information here:
http://www.globalchange.me/Global_Quilt.html

And check back next week to see the blocks I sent.

Talk the Talk, Walk the Catwalk - part 3

2010-08-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Yes that's right, there are more photos in this series. And no I probably won't stop until they are all posted. But thanks for indulging me anyway!

Quote Collection

2010-08-23T07:03:00.000-07:00

"The perfect is the enemy of the good" - Voltaire

Trying to be perfect is a great excuse not to get a lot done or to get better at anything. Certain attitudes lead to why try? If you can't be perfect than why do it all?

This has been a long time enemy of mine and I forget that doing something well is better than not doing anything because its too hard to be perfect. Don't let this get in the way of doing anything you want to do, even if you do it really badly.

I first saw this quote on The Happiness Project, a great resource and a best selling book. Check out the original post here

Talk the Talk, Walk the Catwalk - part 2

2010-08-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

This may be a face or an attempt to kiss the camera. Either way, too cute!

New in Quilting - Make your own pattern from a photo

2010-08-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

Check out the new feature from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London!

You can upload any photo and the site will create your very own quilt pattern and you can download the pdf pattern in just minutes. Their exhibit on quilts just ended last month (sigh... should have gone to London) but you can still make your own pattern.

Its a few easy steps, I took a favorite photo of mine from this:

Into this:

For your own patterns go to: http://www.vam.ac.uk/microsites/quilts/patchwork

PS - This is a new feature on my blog where each month I will highlight something new and and happening in the world of quilting. Hope you like!

Book of the Month(ish) - I ain't too proud to color

2010-08-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

Coloring books for grown ups are a great idea. I spent the last two trips coloring away on the plane and train. The book I picked up contained several designs in slight variations and showed examples to mix things up. If you are feeling really together, you can bring stamps and mail your coloring, in the form of postcards from your trip. This has also served me well a thank you notes for people who offered up their couches.

Although the only bad part is that I need more markers to really get the color spectrum I am after. I am too old to ask for markers for Christmas?

Talk the Talk, Walk the Catwalk?

2010-08-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

One of my cats its a bit of a ham. In fact, in trying to convinve me not to go on a trip, he gave me his cutest faces posing on my suitcase.

I think this is his best looking off into the distance serious face.
Next week trying to eat the camera...

Do you think he could walk the catwalk with the face?

Getting Organized

2010-07-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

With my time now beng spent on getting my business in shape, time also had to be spent getting my studio in shape. I'm still in the process but some peg board and few other key steps, like binders and crates are getting me there.

I dream of a fancy studio but in the mean time here's a sneak peak:

REJECTED

2010-07-24T19:05:00.000-07:00

I am sad to report that my entry into the Text on Textiles quilt - see the original post here - did not get accpeted into the Quilt Show.

Although I not happy about this fact, I am happy to report that I entered the show at all. Its my very first entry into something like this and rejection is a necessary part of life.

And I hope that:

A rejection is nothing more than a necessary step in the pursuit of success.
Bo Bennett

Book of the Month (Or Even So Often) - The Four Hour Work Week

2010-07-20T19:00:00.001-07:00

This is a great book. Although I must say it can be a very bad influence. It really got me thinking about all the time that is wasted in meetings where nothing gets done, make work projects and all the other things everyone does, other than work, to pass the time between 9 and 5.

Not only does the book contain these revelations but it has a great pep talk about how different life could be. This idea and the practical advice it was led me to start the Quilt Kitchen. Its a been a long time dream to have my own craft related business and the question became why not start now?

So now I have the solid information I needed to set some serious goals. And the specific idea that dreams can happen too. Enjoy it, is a great read.

Why Quilt?

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

People often ask me, why quilt? It doesn't seem like a necessity in this modern age. And often its not. But when you want to hold a batting or layer of cushion between two fabrics, quilting is your answer. This is done on winter jackets to hold insulation in place, down comforters to keep the down in place and on potholders to protect hands from getting burned.

Its not always done when it should be. This is a photo of the pad that came with my cats' carrier. It didn't look like this before but once it was washed it came out a lumpy bumpy mess. One look and it told me, this should have been quilted.

Quote Collection

2010-07-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a new series of posts on quotes. This serve as a catalog of inspiring words for me to share with my readers. Without further delay,

"Every act of creation is first an act of destruction."
Pablo Picasso

I remember this everytime I cut a new beautiful fabric for a quilt. While it is beaufiul as it it it has to be cut to take the form that I want it to be. Although I still hold my breath the first time I cut a fabric I find really pretty, it helps to remember that it has to be done.

Woven Inspiration

2010-06-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Incorporating woven fabric into a quilt is something I have been interested in a while. There are some interesting examples I've seen but I haven't quite come across the right idea.

I can see the potential in this wrapping paper idea with long woven strips of paper, from Print and Pattern. Check out the original post here

Print and pattern is a favorite of mine, always showcasing interesting designs and what's new in the world of surface design. This type of weaving could make a really great frame for a quilt. I will keep in mind and in my sketchbook.

Newest Book of the Month - Quilt Artistry

2010-06-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

This book provides an interesting combination of eastern design on western quilting techniques. Yoshiko Jinzenji's time in Canada taught her about Amish quilting and she took that concept and created her own style. She developed fabric dyeing techniques using bamboo and other plant species found outside her studio in Bali. Her style is simple and calm with intricate details and is truly an inspiration for modern quilters everywhere. Her use of quilting itself to create pattern in breathtaking. She uses machine quilting, both sewing machines and long arm quilting machines (sigh, a quilter can dream)to add intricate textures to her quilts.

You can see more of her work on her website: http://www.yoshikoquilt.com/index.html

She has another book coming to North America in February 2011. I already can't wait! Although I am not sure I will be bamboo dyeing any fabric soon, her modern style and quiet sensibility shine through in all her award winning work.

Another fancy photo

2010-05-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

I don't have a use for this one quite yet, but I really loved it anyway so I wanted to share. This is a picture taken with my mini-photo studio set up, which really is a flat surface, some white paper and some lights (thanks Photojojo). This is a shot of one of the drawers from my family heirloom sewing chest. The chest has all sorts of old threads, buttons and snaps I've been sorting through the trying to use up. I love the old wooden spools in particular. Although I am pretty sure I won't be able to use all the supplies in my lifetime, hopefully I can pass some on to the next generation.

Ruffle Flower Baby Quilt

2010-05-28T15:42:00.000-07:00

This quilt is one of my very first kits available. It was intended to use some vintage fabric I purchased and I think I was in the mood for spring when I started it as its pretty cheerful.

I used a blanket stitch to applique the leaves and stem of the flower in a coordinating yellow thread. Regular readers may recognize the similar stitching I used on my tulip quilt from last month. I had actually started this one first but needed to finish the tulip first.

I used diagonal quilting to create a subtle lattice effect without getting too literal on it.

If you are interested check my store for the kit.

Photo Resources

2010-05-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

There are some great and free photography websites for very amateur photographers like myself.

I've used Photojojo for a while now to get the most out of my point and click. A SLR is a dream for another day. In the meantime, with Photojojo's advice and free photo editing from Picnik, I've been taking all my product photography for the Quilt Kitchen.

I think I might be pushing my point and click to the limits but in the meantime I think the results are pretty good.
And might I say I think this came out pretty good

Quilt Kitchen

2010-05-12T16:40:00.001-07:00

I am very excited to announce my new venture:

www.quiltkitchen.com

Kits will be available in two weeks!

Text on Textiles Submission

2010-05-10T16:28:00.001-07:00

I met the deadline. Its not perfect but here are the two photos I submitted for the 2010 International Quilt Festival in Houston.

The quilts are a play on pointillism using text rather than typical dots to create depth and dimension in this piece. I also wanted to play with creating an organic shape with the industrial looking stamp. The stamp was the same changeable version I had used previously for my cards and I can't believe it still has ink.

Fingers are crossed my quilt gets accepted to the show!

Book of the Month (Or Even So Often)

2010-04-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

I purchased this book a while ago and actually used one of the cover images for inspiration in a upcoming quilt.

Amy Butler is a well-know fabric designed and always uses amazing colors in her fabrics. Her unique style is best known in her book MidWest Modern, but I instead went for her book of patterns. There are quite a few quilts in her as well as other home goods like aprons, pillows and PJ bottoms. The patterns are well-written and styles are unique and very cute.

Look for my next quilt to take inspiration from the image above...

Done in 7 Days...

2010-04-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

There’s nothing like a deadline to get the creative juices flowing. So there’s a chance I may be able to finish my entry on time for the May 6th deadline (one week!) for my entry into the International Quilt Show call for entry titled "Text on Textiles: Words as Design in Quilts”. I have a few ideas percolating but had better pick one and get to it. Fortunately the quilt does not have to be very big, only 25" by 25", which should save some time.

Check it out at:
http://www.callforentriestext.com/

Cat Crafts

2010-04-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

Its true. Sometimes, although not that often, I make things just for my cats.
Here's an example of scratching post I whipped up using 3 inch pieces of cardboard. I wrapped the cardboard in circles, gluing each strip as I went. Progress was slow, as I couldn't glue too many strips together at a time without the whole thing losing structural integrity. The covered the last strip in some cow-print faux fur for a chic cat friendly look.

Here's my cat posing just so with the scratching disc:

Quick Before and After

2010-04-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

There hasn't been a ton of quilting going on recently, but there have been a few other projects on the go. Many of these project are around getting ready for spring and starting my garden. To better enjoy my garden, here are my outdoor chairs.
Before looks a little dingy, despite several rounds in the washing machine and some bleaching.

So I gave up on the fabric and went for a new bold stripe. The stripe is actually a left over from the recovered awning from last summer but bring a some much needed cheerfulness to the bland backyard. Its amazing what a little fabric can do. The chairs could still do with a re-finish which I hope to take on when its warmer outside.

Can't wait to sit out on the porch and enjoy the warm nights ahead.

Baby Card

2010-03-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

Introducing my new standard congratulations on your new arrival baby card...

Its gone over well in the first few times, although I did experiment with a red version below. Although I do like the primary color combination, the green seems to pop better.

I saw from on my my favorite blogs a stamping project and used that for the text on the front. Here's the original link to Design Sponge's project and a cute example of using the stamps for business cards. Perhaps sometime in the future.

Scrap Quilt

2010-03-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

Here's the finished scrap quilt with the brick wall inspired inset. A sneak peak of this quilt in progress in on a previous post but a lot of work remained. The backing was a last minute decision, I had another fabric planned but the daisies in this pattern worked much better.

This was for a friend of the family, who has two sisters who already have received quilts. This quilt uses some of the same fabrics but has a unique design all its own, reflecting the relationship of family but the individuality of all the cousins.

The binding on this quilt proved to be a huge challenge although I am still not quite sure why. Here's a close up of the finished result.

Check back next week for the card that goes with the quilt.

Inspiration Wall

2010-02-28T11:41:00.000-08:00

I knew I wanted to make a scrap quilt to make use of the small bits of fabric that I have left. But I find maybe scrap quilt patterns to not be to my liking and often not very modern.

So I went looking for inspiration and I found out in this cement block wall.

The brick pattern links the pieces nicely and adds interest without becoming to busy. Check back later in the week for a look at the finished quilt.

When in Doubt, Bake

2010-02-17T10:30:00.000-08:00

Recently I woke to a chilly house one weekend morning, due to a non-functioning furnace. At the same time, there was a major lack of food mostly because it was too hard to go grocery shopping. This perfect storm of cold and hungry lead to a major grocery shop and cook off, leading to a life lesson - when in doubt, bake.

Two batches of bagels, sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. The homemade bagels are a multi-step process but really do taste better than many of the supermarket brands.

As you can see it was a busy day. There was a Roasted Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions. All the better to keep the oven on with.

Also, there was two vegetarian Shepperd's Pies, one frozen for later.

And for dessert, some Hot Chocolate with melted Callibaut chocolate and a shot of Cointreau topped with a little whipped cream. I will add that the heat came back on prior to all of the food being cooked but it was a warm, productive and tummy filling day none the less.

Hot Air Balloon Quilt or How Not to Applique

2010-02-15T09:50:00.000-08:00

Here's the final Hot Air Balloon Quilt complete with Steve's Cousin floating away.

The overall quilt came out well but the applique provided some challenges. It was certainly a learning experience working on those curves. The colors came out well and are well suited to a baby boy.

Here's a shot of the back. I used a white thread and this came close to a sashiko type effect. I love the drawn look to it but overall the backing came out a little loose in a couple spots. Which I think this further justifcation for a new quilting foot.

Work in Progress?

2010-01-27T18:05:00.000-08:00

Some days things just flow and everything seems to come together. And some days, like today, its seems as though everything is working against you, including your own furry assistants. Today is a day when its miracle any work gets done.

Design Events - Come Up to My Room

2010-01-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

This past weekend’s was Toronto ’s very own unique design event at the Gladstone Hotel – Come up to My Room. A part of Toronto’s International Design Festival, the event featured a eclectic mix of designers, artists, craftspeople and students.

I favored the more literal rather than conceptual designs that shared a relationship with the hotel itself or the surroundings relating to the hotel with themes like beds and sleeping.

Personal favs included:

Julia Hepburn’s sleeping bird with creepy dream dioramas, was like watching a bird dream. It was intimate, fascinating and a hint of dark all at the same time. http://juliahepburn.blogspot.com/

Noelle Hamlyn, perhaps this is my personal bias towards textiles coming through, “The Breathing Room” contained handcrafted paper lace that looked like lungs. The room was filled with texture and sounds and provided sensory relief from the buzz of the crown. Check out: noellehamlyn.com

Richard Unterthiner and Paolo Ferrari's "Bed Memories", which after walking down a disorienting mirrored hall, led you to a light filled room with words suspended in the air. Not unlike the act of letting go and falling asleep. You can anonymously post your own memories at their blog: http://bedmemory.blogspot.com/

First Try

2010-01-19T17:03:00.000-08:00

Here is my very first try on something small. Generally, I work quilt size and not in fine detail. Its not quite as well as hoped but not bad for a first try. This is inspired by a Denise Schmidt pattern from her book named Steve. So its a pleasure to introduce you to Steve's Cousin. He's made from a combination of scrap fabrics and an old pillowcase.

Come back next week to see where exactly this one goes...

New Year and New Table

2010-01-05T17:13:00.000-08:00

Its a New Year and to start things off I am now the proud owner of an amazing, custom built quilt table. Hopefully this will start many new projects and make cutting and laying out quilt much easier and more efficient.

Here's my current work is progess being marked and pinned. Most quilters don't generally use wood clamps to keep the fabric tight and down but it works well and uses a lot less masking tape. This is one of the first time I have pinned a quilt on a table and not on the floor and its quite an improvement. A big thanks to my Dad for his hard work!

November Book of the Month

2009-11-19T15:59:00.000-08:00

So the book of the month series had devolved into book whenever I am inspired. And inspiration has struck. Denise Schmidt has such a unique quilt style and color combination that her book became a must read. The use of modern fabrics with some traditional patterns, with a twist, is a great way to move quilting to from Grandma’s pastime to a modern day trend. Her slightly off-kilter designs are a reinterpretation but add whimsy to the straight edges and formality of many quilt patterns.

Her book offers up a range of patterns, from full size quilts to aprons and scarves. Her example of a stuffed animal cat was so cute, I used it an inspiration for an upcoming quilt. You will see the results soon…

All Squares

2009-10-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

This is a simple design with all squares. It was designed mostly to use up some old Beatrix Potter themed fabrics and also the rather large supply of pink fabrics that have accumulated. More pinks to come - or time to destash.

It was paired with the previous Beatrix Potter panel quilt as a gift for twins.

New Quilts, Old Fabrics Part Two

2009-10-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

This is the second wedding quilt from this past summer. These are the first two larger sized quilts in a long while and it was quite an adjustment to working with all that fabric.

Both quilts are made with vintage fabrics and new fabics, past and present coming together to make something new. The challenge of working with old fabrics is quite large, given the limits of selection and colors. Overall the quilts were a success and a great learning project.

New Quilts,Old Fabrics

2009-10-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

Better late than never. Here is the first of two quilts made for weddings. The quilt combine new and old fabrics - something old, something new - for an over all modern look. The quilting is done with a thin zig zag stich to off-set the pieced fabric stripes.

Favorite Freebies

2009-07-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

My current desktop background is from http://www.thekindredsite.com/

The free Desktop downloads are varied and all lovely. The ability to customize what you look at while at a generic workspace is always something to enjoy, so check back for their new releases that change with the seasons.

A True Artist

2009-07-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

There are many pop culture stars right now, but so few true artists. This week, we lost one of them, Michael Jackson. His talent was so clear and for a while his star could not be higher. However, sometimes the brightness that only hides a darkness that lies within.

This video, from Filipino inmates, illustrates how art can come from so many, no matter their past or their future. It’s a great watch, if you haven’t seen in already - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK25cfzdTTg

I believe that art is everywhere and inspiration just has to strike. Perfection can lie in imperfection and every so often you have to see ugly to know beauty.

July Book of the Month - The War of Art

2009-07-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

For anyone looking to find their path, The War of Art is a must read. The title is a bit misleading as this book applies not just to those struggling with creativity, but anyone struggling to find their way whether it be in life, love, health or business.

Author Stephen Pressfield states some unique ideas on life and how to succeed through perils along the way. Pressfield proposes that we are not all born able to be anything we want to be when we grow up. Rather each individual is pre-set with a calling and to which each person should adhere. He also argues that there is no such thing as a level playing field, but instead we should acknowledge and accept that there is no day like today to start what we always wanted to do. Pressfield believes that the things that we fear the most are exactly the things we should be doing. I hope to put this into practice for the future.

I just finished reading this book and loved it. I almost never purchase books but this one is a keeper.

June Book of the Month

2009-06-10T06:44:00.001-07:00

Nancy Clark is a well-known sports nutritionist and I have come to rely heavily on her Sports Nutrition Guidebook. The advice on what to eat while training and working out is very practical and helpful. But her best advice relies less on sports and more on something that is true for everyone, athlete or not. Clark's basic premise is that that food is fuel. Its it not good or bad or a reward or emotional. Its is simply fuel that the body needs to function.

Clark also identifies that no one can eat perfectly. She recommends that people aim to eat well 80-90% of the time and the rest not so much. That's a reasonable goal and I love that it allows for a realistic meal plan with indulgences. All and all this is a good read with good advice.

No Knead Bread

2009-05-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

This is a trend that started back in 2006 from Mark Bittman, so this post is behind the times. More recently, some new cookbooks are hitting the market based on this technique and with my recent forray into bread making, it seemed time to try.

This no knead recipe suggests an 12 to 18 hour rise, so some planning is involved to get the timing right. You don't want to be baking at 4 am. Its one of the tastiest but also messiest breads I have made. I highly recommend the technique (great for lazy bakers) and depth of flavor.

See the article that started it all: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/08/dining/08mini.html

Fish Quilt

2009-05-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

This is the first quilt in a long while that is my own design. For some friends who are currently expecting and huge fans of anything aquatic, I designed a patchwork fish on a wave like background. I used a satin stitch as well as other decorative stitches to appliqué the fish to the background. It did take many tries to get the fish pieces together - more practice on my appliqué technique in the future! I added in some blue wave like quilting but after some lumping in the first wash, I added more wave quilting in white thread. Overall the fish is what I had in mind, cute but not overly cutesy and the gender neutral colors work together quite nicely.

The plaid background fabric came from I heart Felt http://www.iheartfelt.com/ and their spring sale. The white background fabric came from The Workroom http://www.theworkroom.ca/ as did the batting. The rest of the blues and green came from my fabric stash.

Green and Green

2009-05-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

To not only make the backyard greener in color, but also environmentally friendly, several of the planters are re-purposed containers including our old recycling box and cleaned out paint cans. More pictures to come once the garden starts to look pretty.

Greeting From the Back Yard/May Book

2009-05-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

It’s not much, yet but soon the backyard will be less of a wasteland and more of a green place to relax. Seedlings are started, including sunflowers and nasturtiums. There will be peas, basil and tomatoes for vegetables and some catnip for the feline members of the household (although these same felines are thwarting development by walking on said seedlings). After the last frost, creeping thyme will be added to the walkways and side of the house for ground cover and to add a nice smell.

In the meantime, many of the planter ideas came from The Complete Guide to Container Gardening by Stephanie Donaldson . This book is a few years old now but uses a lot of re-purposed containers, such as tin cans and wine crates to create lovely planters, table-scapes and gardens. The planters and plants work well together to create an artistic look and so much better than the plastic ones from the supermarket. I also like using planters that are something more interesting, have a history to them or re-purposing what you may already have.

April Book - Apartment Therapy

2009-04-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

Apartment Therapy the website compiled some of their favorite and some new images from their website into a hard cover book published last year. The book has many inspiration pictures and ideas from people living in small spaces. I loved the uses of color, or lack there of in many of the featured homes.

But my favorite advice from the book was reflected in the eclectic tastes of the homes. It inspired me to show off several things because they are loved. Above is a photo of my Grandmother's Grandmother's sewing cabinet in the living room. Its a little beat up from generations of use but stands out as one of the favorite items and receives many compliments.

So thanks Apartment Therapy for your mantra. And I now believe that if you love something and display it well, anything can work in your home.

Pink and Green Quilt

2009-04-07T08:45:00.001-07:00

I had extra bits of green left over from my previous all green quilt so I added a little hit of color. The quilt backing is from a previous project and the batting came from The Workroom.

I love the combination of pink and green for little girls although I think it’s not too feminine for a boy. This quilt is not for anyone in particular but hopefully will find a home soon.

2009-03-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Five years and many hours spent pondering, I finally decided on how to quilt this panel of fabric. The panel is quite busy, with many characters and colors and I considered many fancy and elaborate options (click on the photo for a more detailed view). But in the end, this was a great reminder that often simple is best. I even added in a decorative stitch to the binding and the quilt still didn't look busy. Its currently waiting for a new home, but I expect that there will be some friends expecting soon and it won't be too long before the quilt is keeping someone tiny all nice and warm.

Another month, another book

2009-03-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

I am currently working my way through Twyla Tharp's The Creative Habit. The book is not only inspiring but very practical. It’s a self-help guide directed at creative types but applies to many other fields. Published in 2005, the book remains an insight into a great creative mind. The book mines habits of famous creative's from the past, such as Beethoven and Da Vinci, as well as contemporaries such as the Beatles and Martha Graham to proffer up advice on learning as much as you can and reflecting on what you have already done.

The book offers a great way to get inspired to actually do some creative things but really leading to creative thinking.

Book of the Month

2009-01-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

Each month, hanna@home will feature a book for creative ideas, better living and inspirations.

To kick off this new feature, we'll start with Joelle Hoverson's Last Minute Quilted Gifts. The book contains many creative patterns for quilts and other gifts sorted by how long they take to make. Most interesting is Hoverson's combinations of color and fabric that take traditional quilting patterns to modern times. Her sense of color and style make the quilts unique and timeless.

This is a recently finished adaptation of her pattern "Little Bits"

The pattern is quite simple but allows for a modern twist with traditional fabrics. This quilt was designed without a recipient in mind, but it now has a happy home for a new baby boy.

Trifecta Bread

2009-01-11T15:58:00.001-08:00

A gift of a new Kitchen Aid mixer for Christmas has been a source of new challenges around the kitchen. Most recently, I have been exploring the world of bread baking. There was only one package of yeast left in the house and I needed bread so I search the recipe books for recipes and ended up with one of my more successful attempts.

Adapted from Nigella Lawson's How to be a Domestic Goddess

1 1/3 cup spelt flour
1 1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/3 cup all purpose flour
1 package (1/4 ounce) rapid rise yeast
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cup warm water

Add the three flours, yeast and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer, fitted with a dough hook. Set it on stir for about 30 seconds. Slowly add the butter while the mixer is still on. Let that incorporate and slowly add water. Add about half of the water and increase the mixer to speed to 2. Slowly add the remaining water to the dough. It should start to puu away from the sides of the bowl and form a ball. Add more flour if needed, although if the water is added slowly this step should not be needed. Allow the dough to knead for about two minutes.

Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl to rise for about an hour.
After an hour, remove the dough and place it in a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and punch is down. If you do not have a loaf pan, simply form the dough into a loose round shape. Allow the dough to rise for another hour.

Place the dough in a pre-heated 400 degree over and bake for 35-45 minutes until golden. The old trick to check to see if the bread is done is to sinply remove it fro the pan and knock on the bottom. If the bread sounds hollow, its done. Remove to a rack and let cool.

Smother with butter and jam. Best served warm.

Alice in Pastryland is now hanna @ home

2009-01-08T16:09:00.000-08:00

Same site. New look. New style

The new year means a new look for this blog. It also is going to bring a new slant. Less specific to only culinary musings and more of a lifestyle focus, this will hopefully reflect a more wide range of interests.

Stay tuned

2009-01-08T15:52:00.000-08:00

In a flash, it seems these days all people are seeing is red. There is news of the stock markets losing money, people losing pensions or worse their jobs. But just a few months ago, ads everywhere were touting the "greenness" of their products. Take car adds, a few months ago they all claimed a better mileage and low emissions. Now it seems its all low, low, low prices.

So where does this leave the eat local, organic and green movements? Well known food writer, Mark Bittman has just launched his new book, How to cook everything. It touts the ideas of simple eating and fresh ingredients. When cost becomes paramount, will people choose the environment, their taste buds or their pocketbook?
I can't help but wonder, is red the new green?

An Open Letter to Dining Room Decorators

2008-05-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Decorators,

Re: Mirrors

A perfectly splendid meal was ruined the other night, not because of the food, or the service or the restaurant itself. It was the decorator. The restaurant had been re-done for a TV show. There were mirrors around the space and right at the height to create a lovely view of you. Mirrors can make small spaces larger and reflect light throughout a room. But there is nothing more distracting to a meal than watching yourself eat. Maybe some people enjoy this but its really hard to hold a conversation when you see every facial expression you make looking back at you. Even more distracting is watching every bite go from the plate into the mouth. Eventually, a self-pact was made to not look in the mirror for the rest of the meal. The dinner and the company were both enjoyable and welcome distractions. So, please decorators, in the future always refrain from the mirror directly across from diners.

Thanks,

A Distracted Diner

The mirrors above are currently on sale at Crate and Barrel: http://www.crateandbarrel.com/family.aspx?c=1420&f=27623

Its Organic But Not Natural

2008-05-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

All you do is heat up your skillet and add some butter, vegetable oil or cooking spray. Then simply squirt in the batter to your pan and enjoy fresh pancakes.

Made with no artificial flavoring or preservatives, the Batter Blaster does require refrigeration. Has anyone tried this?

Spring Clean in Style

2008-03-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

In order to inspire some spring cleaning here are some great ideas for suiting up in style.

Method's product are all well packaged and in stylish containers. But even better, they endeavor to make the world a cleaner place while creating non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning products.

And since your aren't just about cleaning but also looking good, check out Domistyle for adorable aprons and busy b designs for coordinating gloves.

These guys might not make cleaning any more fun but at least you'll look cute.

Crush

2008-03-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

A crush is appropriate for Valentine's Day and a new one is developing. After sampling many flavors of cupcakes from Flour Studio, at 833 Eglinton West, Toronto, http://www.flourstudio.com/flour/index.html, there’s one standout. The Fleur de Sel cupcakes are rich and the chocolate is fabulous. The slightly salty kick takes it to a whole new level. The store is gorgeous and be sure to check out the gorgeous flowers. Anything from the store is gift and swoon worthy.

Without Much Further Delay... All my witches

2008-01-15T15:53:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Halloween, this year I decided to put my chocolate skills to the test. The outcome was not all that I had hoped, but just as tasty. First, a ganache was flavored with Bailey's Irish Cream and chilled. Then the ganache was piped into chocolate dessert cups. I then tempered my chocolate (Lindt) and spread out a thin sheet of chocolate as well as dipped the molded cups. The sheet of chocolate, while still pliable but not too soft, was cut into rounds. Lastly, I spead pink molding chocolate on the bottoms of the dipped cups and put them on the circles. The result was a tasty (if a little droopy) witch hats.

Fall Harvest

2007-09-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

Fall brings to mind reaping harvest time and there’s nothing like the reward of reaping the benefits of summer planting. Which meant one thing for my small balcony garden; it is time to harvest the basil. After cutting down both kinds of basil (short-leaf and purple varieties) it was as time to make pesto. For the sake of variety, a substitute was made for traditional parmesan or pecorino cheese, using asiago instead. The pine nuts were lightly toasted and everything was pureed in the food processor. Out came a nutty flavourful paste of a slightly weird color (from the purple and green basils blending together). One mixed with fresh pasta and tomatoes, it was easy to forget the color and focus on rewards.

2007-09-04T16:28:00.000-07:00

As party goers already know, the only thing better than drinking at home is drinking on the go. With the advent of alcohol filled tetra paks, there's a beverage of choice whatever your vice.

Having a picnic in the park? How about wine tetra paks for the crowd? Both Le Petit Sommelier and Three Thieves produce multi-packs of tetra paks, available at the LCBO.

Want to cool down on a hot day? How about a vodka freezer from Black Fly Coolers? Simply stick these grown up popsicles into your cooler, available in three flavors Cranberry/Blueberry, Strawberry/Rhubarb and Black Currant/Blueberry.

Prefer spirits? Why not Pocket Shots. These handy and portable single serve shots are available as Vodka, Rum, Tequila, Whiskey or Gin. You can mix on the go or just shoot them straight whenever you need liquor on the go.

Whatever your tastes, there appears to be a portable alcohol to fit your needs.

Stay Cool with Cucumber

2007-07-02T17:05:00.000-07:00

This summer appears to be the season for drinks made with cucumber. Pepsi has announced the launch of a new cola available only in Japan, called Pepsi Ice Cucumber. Sales started in mid-June so no word yet on whether or not it’s a hit.

Located a little closer to home, the LCBO has launched a Hot City Cocktails leading with their Los Angeles Cucumber Pear Gimlet, recipe below. And when you are at home, Martha Stewart suggests adding cucumber to green tea and chilling for a thirst quenching iced tea.

Cucumber Pear Gimlet
Adapted from Bar Lubitsch, Los Angeles

1/3 cup peeled and chopped cucumbers
1/4 ounce lime juice
1/2 lime cordial
11/2 ounces Absolut Pears vodka

Place cucumber in a cocktail shaker and mash. Add lime juice, lime cordial and vodka and shake. Strain into a martini glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a pear slice and serve.

Two Many Cooks?

2007-06-25T18:03:00.001-07:00

A convergence of great culinary minds happened this past week in my kitchen. Nigella Lawson brought her incredibly simple ice cream recipe from Nigella Bites. Martha Stewart brought her traditional recipe for Gingersnaps from Martha Stewart’s Baking Handbook. The results, Bitter Orange Ice Cream smashed in between two Gingersnaps for a delicious summer treat. Who ice cream sandwiches could be so simple and yet taste so good?

Tasty TSP?

2007-06-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Never been a fan of TSP? It never tasted like this before. With Chris and Tal’s Better Burgers now on the market frozen burgers never tasted so good. They use a unique combination of lean ground beef and textured soy protein to make an outstanding burger with less fat and fewer calories than even most veggie burgers. When hot off the BBQ not even the most tofu hating carnivores (my Dad) can tell the difference between a Better Burger and an all meat burger.

In The News...

2007-06-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

What’s in the news this week? Me and my toffee. The talented folks over at Taste T.O. have interview me for a series they are doing on indie food artisans. They have a great site chock full of information, events and restaurant reviews in the GTA. And excellent taste in toffee.

Spraying Alive

2007-05-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

In the spring of this year Wish-Bone decided to launch a new method of salad dressing dispensing, the spray-on dressing. Designed to appeal to dieters, they promise either 1 or 2 calories per spray depending on the type of dressing.

But the spray on food concept isn’t new. Already on the shelves is I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter® spray. Predating that, Kraft has been churning out the classic Easy Cheese since 1988. And with trendy restaurants experimenting with science and molecular foods in their kitchens, expect more propellant driven foods on the horizon.

At Home:

Often recommended by nutritionists, the Misto allows you to spray your own olive oil. It allows for less total oil on a meal and a nice even distribution. It makes basting easier and is refillable with any oil you choose.

C is for Cookie, G is for Grocery Store

2007-05-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Good cookies are available at the grocery store! No really, these cookies made with all natural ingredients and won’t disappoint. Since 1886, Jules Destrooper has been selling Almond Thins. They are light, thin and excellent by themselves or with tea. The Virtuoso is also a standout, with a touch of spice surrounded by chocolate. Both are available online or in the grocery store.

At home:

Nothing beats fresh baked cookies still warm from the oven. And who can resist over indulging on warm cookies? For fresh baked cookies at home in modest amounts, think about freezing some of your next batch. The Food Network’s Ellie Krieger recommends mixing up a batch of cookies but only baking enough that you are going to eat now. To freeze unbaked dough, spoon or scoop cookies onto a baking sheet and pop then in the freezer for 2 hours. Take them out and put them into a freezer bag for later. Next time you want fresh baked cookies all you have to do is open up the freezer.

Dark Chocolate: Its Everywhere

2007-05-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

The trend of using dark and higher end chocolates is not news. But its fun to see it trickle down to standard convenience store candy racks.Hershey’s has introduced Hershey’s has introduced the Extra Dark line and now even goes so far as to directly compete with the higher end brands introducing the Cacao Reserve Line. Mars introduced Dark Chocolate M & Ms. Its nice to see the big companies being responsive to the trend, but given that most confectionary companies use chocolate coating and not actual chocolate for their candy, the (ahem) bar isn’t being raised all that high.

At home:
Better selection at the grocery store means you can get your hands on some decent baking chocolates. Ghirardelli’s chocolate chips will make the average chocolate chip cookies standouts. But any chocolate bar can be chopped up and used to take your desserts to the next level.

Hot Picks for Cool Drinks

2007-05-11T11:31:00.000-07:00

The heat of summer is here. Here are some top picks to cool you down:

Honest Tea's Moroccan Mint flavor is a well-balanced tea with a bright tea flavor and a light hint of sweetness. It makes for a thirst quenching experience miles better than your average overly sweet iced teas.

Harney’s and Sons is well known for their hot teas and with their line of iced teas, there’s no reason to stop drinking tea this summer. Simply boil water, steep, cool and be refreshed.

At Home:

You can take almost any tea you have at home. Top choices are green tea and mint teas and most fruit flavored teas do well. Just add honey, any kind of sugar or lemon to your taste. Or you can even mix if with half lemonade for an Arnold Palmer.