JMG Design

Bamboo Flooring

2012-02-08T07:11:00.005-06:00

I am working on replacing the carpet in the my Great Room and decided to go with wood flooring. I have always liked the look of Bamboo because of the fine grain, but the light tones usually associated with Bamboo does not fit my personal Design Style. I prefer medium to dark tones to ground an interior. Also I prefer a wider plank. I was happily surprised at some of the options I found and decided to go with this:

FYI- Bamboo is an attractive alternative for flooring because of its physical similarities to hardwoods. Bamboo floor manufacturers and sellers promote its strength, durability as well as resistance to moisture while having the added benefit of being eco friendly.

Compared to wood it grows much faster because bamboo is a grass not a wood. Moso Bamboo is the primary species used for the manufacturing of flooring and plywood. Moso bamboo can grow up to 47 inches in 24 hours and 78½ feet high in 40 to 50 days. It takes about 3–5 years for bamboo to reach full maturity. Traditional hard woods can take 20 – 120 years to mature.

Bamboo can be harvested without the need to replant because the root system is left intact when it is harvested. Bamboo reaches maturity in five years which is the optimal age to harvest. In a sustainably harvested forest only 20% of the forest is harvested annually allowing for 100% harvest in a five year period. In its natural environment it will need no irrigation, no pesticides, and no fertilizer. Bamboo can sequester up to 70% more carbon per year than a hardwood forest. All these factors keep the carbon footprint low.

I will be posting about the project as it unfolds.

Shell Decor

2012-02-05T11:42:00.003-06:00

You may remember this ladder from a previous post about the Holidays, it has been sitting empty for 2 weeks waiting for the Inspiration Muse to visit.
This weekend I started working on a Beach themed Bridal Shower and began collecting different elements from the storage area in the studio. While I was collecting shells, fish net, etc. I would walk by the ladder and I had a Light Bulb Moment.
I like how it came together. Of course I have to use some of the decor for the party but now I have a photo record so I know how it goes back together.
I like how it compliments the Shellscape that my Gran made back in the 1960's. Shellscapes were all the rage during the Mad Men era.
I am sharing this on Funky Junk Interiors.

Holiday Party

2012-02-01T05:49:00.003-06:00

The entrance to the Dining Room and the Magical ambiance set by the pale blue and silver decor.

The Buffet setup and waiting for all the delicious food.

Closeup of the 5 foot Wreath that anchored the decor in the Dining Room.

A cozy fire highlites the decor in the Study.

Closeup of one of the Fresh Florals inspired by a Yule Log.

Anthon Botanicals

2011-09-29T15:05:00.002-05:00

Just finished this pair of Botanicals to dress a Fireplace Mantle.
Magnolia Leaves echo the design of the Mirror Frame while Green Hydrangeas, Artichokes,Onion Grass, Flowering Branches & Curly Willow complete the composition. I love the leopard print urns that I found set off with black bases.

Autumn Alternatives

2011-09-14T08:23:00.002-05:00

Not everyone like traditional decor. Here is a Leopard inspired wreath for an Autumn Alternative Style. Vintage moire silk was used to wrap the wreath and creates the frothy sheer bow. Copper colored beads and Coque feathers compliment the Leopard print Dahlias.

Velvet Pumpkins

2011-09-07T07:03:00.002-05:00

These are a Special Request for a Design Haus customer. I found some fun Animal Print Velvet in my stash of Vintage Fabrics.

Halloween Glam

2011-09-04T17:15:00.003-05:00

Created using Orange Dupioni Silk, Black Spiderweb Lace, Vintage Millinery Trims and Feathers. It is nice to have an alternative for Halloween. Halloween Vintage Chic.
I am linking his to Addicted 2 Decorating.

Sunflowers

2011-09-04T17:06:00.002-05:00

Sunflowers and dried seed pods are a sure sign of Autumn's Splendor. This rustic design is now available @ The Design Haus.

Vintage Fabric Pumpkins

2011-08-30T14:45:00.000-05:00

New for Autumn, available @ The Design Haus.

Spooky Wreaths and Halloween Plaques

2011-08-28T14:09:00.003-05:00

Here are NEW Spooky Wreaths for Halloween 2011 with Halloween Plaque Add-ons. You can find these and more Halloween Decor @ The Design Haus.

I am linking to The Graphics Fairy.

Covered Headboard Tutorial

2011-08-15T15:36:00.005-05:00

First cut a 3/4 inch piece of plywood to the size needed. I left mine 48" wide and cut it to 64" since I am making a Queen size headboard. I wanted a simple rectangle, but the sky is the limit. You can have an arched top or a French curve. Make a template to size from brown paper if you have doubts and tape it to the wall above the bed. If you don't have a saw most DIY Big Box stores will cut straight cuts for you.

Next attach the foam with spray adhesive, you may need to tack or staple a few places along the edge. The foam should be at least an inch thick. Foam can be very expensive, you can cut cost by using egg crate foam that is used on top of mattresses.

I like to cut the edge of the foam with an electric carving knife. I use the same style that I use to carve the turkey at Thanksgiving. Before you get grossed out I have 2! One for crafts and one for the Kitchen. Next cover the foam with batting. I use quilt batting that comes pre-packaged. This seem to be a bit stronger and can be wrapped and stapled down tightly. It is important to have this step finish with the top being smooth so you don't get any ripples under the fashion fabric. Now you can lay out the fashion fabric making sure to be wrinkle and crease free. An iron can be your best friend. Use it now so you will have a smooth finish. Wrap and staple the fabric starting on one long side in the middle and working your way towards each corner. Make sure the fabric is taut. Switch to the opposite long side and repeat the process. Then do each end the same way. Now the corners- I like to do a lap over, short end tucked and stapled first then the long end overlaps. You may need to trim some of the fabric depending on the bulk.

This step is optional. I like to have a finished back side. Since the back of the headboard is attached to the wall, no one will ever see it. If you are a pro, like me, and a perfectionist to boot, finish the back. I cut the fabric the same size as the headboard and turn under and press the edges about 2 inches in. Using the same method as above staple in place starting at the middle on one of the long sides, etc., etc.

I like to use store bought cleats. These are metal and are rated for 200 pounds. I use 2, one in each of the top corners indented 2 inches from the edge at the top and side. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Super easy.
Once you have decided how high you would like the headboard on the wall install the other half of the cleat and hang the headboard locking the cleats.

BEFORE

AFTER

Give it a try, and have fun!

Botanical Wall Sconce

2011-07-05T14:44:00.004-05:00

Just created this for The Design Haus. One of a set. I will take a picture of the Pair when they are installed.
UPDATE

This set has sold!

Backyard Makeover

2011-07-05T09:26:00.000-05:00

BEFORE

To make the backyard appear larger I designed a seating wall with 2 piers at each end that would hold larger containers. This boundary fools the eye and magically the yard is bigger! This is an old trick that painters used to force the perspectives in paintings. I also had a cement overlay installed over the existing cement patio with a faux finish of fieldstone. We replaced some of the furniture with cast aluminum in a dark finish and painted and antiqued the white set of cast iron to match. To finish off the planting beds a new boxwood hedge and roses were planted and graceful topiaries loaded with Mandevilla and Diamond Frost fill the containers. A Beautiful Retreat and a perfect way to create an outdoor room.

AFTER

Closeup of the containers, I painted these to look like weathered terra cotta. They were originally gray. I used an exterior latex paint in chocolate brown and then drybrushed with tan, olive and rust.

I am linking this @ Addicted 2 Decorating.

Ladies Night Out @ Design Haus

2010-09-25T06:28:00.003-05:00

Due to technical difficulties the recipes will be posted at a later date.

Please check back later. Enjoy the rest of the posts.

Sorry for the inconvenience

John

Pink Ribbon

2010-08-20T05:51:00.003-05:00

Pink Gerbera Daisies floating in square vessels was a bright pop of pink

Pink Ribbon petit fours by The Cakery

Even the Mandevilla was blooming pink!

Cool and Refreshing

2010-07-27T06:25:00.002-05:00

Keep your color palate in cool blues and greens when hosting an outdoor party in the heat of the summer.

Ole!

2010-07-23T05:51:00.005-05:00

Beat the Heat with a Fiesta Pool Party!

Bright Colors, Cold Margaritas & Friends!

Plant of Merit 2009

2010-05-15T13:25:00.003-05:00

Angelonia angustifolia- Serena Series

Plants of Merit 2010

2010-05-15T13:18:00.001-05:00

Aster 'Blue Autumn'

Mini cupcakes

2010-05-15T13:02:00.003-05:00

You probably have seen cupcake towers before, here is one using mini cupcakes. Mini desserts let your guests sample more than one dessert. One bite is just right.

Golden Party

2010-05-13T20:42:00.004-05:00

Roses, Hydrangeas, Lilies and Lisianthus create a stunning centerpiece

Golden Rubber Duckies float in glass bowls

A tasty dessert buffet loaded with goodies

Aurura Borealis Lounge

2009-12-21T06:11:00.004-06:00

Buffet ready for all the delicious food prepared by

With Love Catering and Confections

Closeup of the Dessert Station

Looking along the seating area towards the bar.

Closeup of bar and Northern Lights dancing on the icy arrangement.

Nolen Before/After Bathroom

2009-10-09T07:48:00.004-05:00

Before

After

Before

After

Recycled glass wall vase and sculptural flowers create an artistic focal point.

New Artwork

2009-10-09T07:39:00.002-05:00

New sculpture arrived from Artistic Alchemy.
I now have another choice/look to go with the new credenza from Chair-ished.
What do you think?

Arhaus

2009-09-06T21:39:00.004-05:00

Recycled Treasures-This distinctive collection of “green” goods combines high style with earth-friendly practices to deliver fresh, fabulous fashion for your home. Artisan-designed and completely crafted by hand, each piece is inspired by rescued scrap materials destined for landfills, such as newspaper, old glass bottles and copper pieces. Recycled, repurposed and revitalized, these cast-offs are granted new life, transformed into distinctively different pieces that infuse your home with the spirit and energy of an “old soul”.

Speranza Before/After Wall Display

2009-09-05T07:31:00.004-05:00

Before

After

Speranza Before/After Bedroom

2009-09-05T07:28:00.001-05:00

Before

After

Chair-ished again

2009-08-23T05:36:00.008-05:00

Picked up my new credenza from a funky new store called Chair-ished again. The store creates one of a kind furniture and accessories from old materials, truly recycling new life into found objects. This cabinet started life in a doctor's office. With the addition of a steel top and toe kick and decorative punch work on the doors, this piece is eclectic. More info on this store as it become available.
UPDATE

Unfortunately this store is now closed.

Margarita Madness

2009-08-17T06:07:00.003-05:00

Simple flowers for an impromptu Margarita party

Tilman Before/After

2009-08-16T11:19:00.005-05:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Shaken, Not Stirred

2009-08-16T11:11:00.002-05:00

Entrance to Casino Royal

Extra dry martini-no olive

Photo-op

Chelsea and Mark 12-27-08

2009-08-09T13:30:00.005-05:00

Daisies by design

2009-08-09T06:27:00.003-05:00

Dessert Buffet featuring Colleen's Cookies
Bright-eyed Daisies for an outdoor party.

Don't you want to tuck in?

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T05:15:00.003-05:00

Another creation for the Juvenal Diabetes Pumpkin Auction. I had fun recreating the midcentury style of Halloween past with this scarecrow couple.

Wicked

2008-10-26T10:08:00.003-05:00

This wicked little witch was created for a pumpkin auction for Juvenal Diabetes. Her body is a pumpkin that has been painted and holes drilled to make the lacey pattern.

Last Hummingbird

2008-10-26T10:04:00.001-05:00

My little hummingbird friend sitting patiently while I refill the feeder. This was the last time I saw him before he headed South for the winter.

Candyland at MBG

2008-09-01T10:02:00.005-05:00

Here are a few images of the Candyland figures that were made for the

Missouri Botanical Gardens Childeren's Garden.Gingerbreadmen stand guard around a Lantana standard.

A Gingerbreadman playing in the Coleus

King Candy's Castle with Gumballs and Icecream cones.

Come back and play with us soon!

St Louis A-List Awards Colleen's Cookies

2008-07-11T15:36:00.005-05:00

A whimsical presentation of Colleen's Cookies for the St Louis Magazines A-List Awards. Check out the link for Colleen's Cookies under Favorite Things.

Butterflies and Gerbera daisies make a bold statement.
Tasty Linzer cookies with Raspberry filling take center stage.
So many treats to choose from!

Diamond Frost

2008-05-06T05:37:00.002-05:00

``Diamond Frost'' has delicate white flowers that will remind you of baby's breath. The difference is that Euphorbia ``Diamond Frost'' is grown as a potted plant for both indoor and outdoor use. ``Diamond Frost'' has been available in the nursery trade for only a few years, yet in this short time it has proven itself as winner. Planted outdoors, it blooms nonstop when utilized as a bedding plant or ground cover. ``Diamond Frost'' is highly drought tolerant with a bushy, yet open growth habit, uniquely qualifying it as a subject for hanging baskets and containers.``Diamond Frost,'' as a member of the succulent Euphorbiaceae or spurge family, is not as hung up on the issue of moisture loss. A bonus attached to ``Diamond Frost'' is its ease of propagation so that you are actually getting dozens, if not eventually hundreds, of plants at no extra charge. Detach 3-inch stem pieces and stick them in pots or soft ground to expand the presence of ``Diamond Frost'' in your garden.

Happy Earth Day

2008-04-22T06:57:00.003-05:00

Every year, April 22 is celebrated as Earth Day. Still, it is best to be kind to the earth every day.
This is where we live, and unless our habitat is in good shape, we cannot live as well or as long as we would like. Here are some great ideas to keep the earth clean.
*Never throw things away unless you use a trash container or a recycle container.
*If you see trash on the street, pick it up and throw it away.
*When you no longer need an item like a toy or clothing, give it away to someone who can use it.
*Have a yard sale with your family or friends.
*Use cloth napkins instead of paper napkins.
*Buy recycled paper and plastic products whenever possible.
*Use paper instead of plastic bags, or better yet, used cloth bags when shopping.

Capsicum 'Black Pearl'

2008-04-19T08:37:00.002-05:00

Attractive pearl-like black fruits appear on this ornamental pepper in summer, but the real show begins when those fruits mature to cherry red in sharp contrast with the plant’s superb, season-long, glossy black foliage. Plants typically grow in pyramidal shaped mounds to 18 inches tall and exhibit good tolerance for high heat and humidity. This is an excellent selection for beds, borders or containers. Plant in Full Sun.

Dichondra "Silver Falls"

2008-04-19T08:30:00.003-05:00

Branching silver stems with soft, rounded, fan-shaped, silver leaves spread rapidly on this creeping/trailing foliage plant. In a single season, stems will cascade from a hanging basket to 3-6 feet or will creep along the ground rooting at the nodes to 3-4 feet. Tiny greenish-yellow spring flowers are not showy. It is the dense, metallic foliage that impresses. Great as an accent plant in containers and hanging baskets. Plant in full sun.

TerraCycle Sells Trash

2008-04-19T07:58:00.004-05:00

TerraCycle manufactures affordable, potent, organic products that are not only made from waste, but are also packaged entirely in waste! TerraCycle Plant Food™ is made by feeding premium organic waste to millions of worms. The worm poop is then liquified into a powerful organic plant food and bottled directly in used soda bottles.

Strawberries

2008-04-17T07:17:00.002-05:00

The first seasonal strawberries appear in our markets and shops in April. The fruit we know today has evolved from the wild or alpine strawberry, which can still be found in grassy woodlands all over Europe. You can experience their delicate flavour in wild strawberry jam which is available from specialist shops. Cultivated strawberries come in many varieties and in all shapes and sizes. Look for fruit that is firm and unblemished and go for smaller fruits, because larger ones, although they may may look like more of a treat, are often watery. Supermarkets will often stock only one or two varieties but if you venture out and find a pick-your-own farm you should get wider choice and more fruit for your money.Adding balsamic vinegar to the strawberries does wonders for the flavor and produces delicious juices.
Ingredients:
1 pint box strawberries
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Hull and slice the strawberries and combine them with the sugar and balsamic vinegar. Leave for 1 hour before serving.

Green Floor Coverings

2008-04-17T07:14:00.002-05:00

Anso Nylon Carpet in Fresh N Fabulous. Subtle yet striking, Fresh N Fabulous from Shaw offers dimension and fashion with a raised geometric square pattern and natural striations of soft two-toned color. Made of luxurious, durable Anso ® nylon, Fresh N Fabulous contains recycled content and is recyclable into new carpet again and again –CARPET TO CARPET ™. Shown in Java.

Green toilets

2008-04-17T07:04:00.003-05:00

Wellworth Pressure Lite Elongated Toilet FEATURED IN THE HGTV GREEN HOME, the Wellworth elongated toilet brings graceful design and superior functionality to the bathroom with the Pressure Assist technology, precision-engineered to deliver complete 1.1-gpf performance. 30-1/4"L x 21-1/4"W x 29-1/4"H

Pressure Assist flushing system

Two-piece toilet with elongated bowl

Meets strict flushing performance guidelines established by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) WaterSense program - uses at least 20% less water than standard 1.6-gallon toilets.

Marigold Mumsy Gold

2008-01-27T16:30:00.000-06:00

Beginning in late spring and continuing through summer and into fall, Mumsy is a tireless bloomer, setting giant 4-inch double blooms with a flattish pompon shape. Mumsy reaches about 14 inches high and 8 inches wide, it makes a good container choice, offering a lot of color in very little, bright and sunny space.

Clematis "Princess Diana"

2008-01-27T16:23:00.000-06:00

The dainty, upright blooms are shaped like Tulips, with a soft pink-to-white base and a rich darker pink stripe distinguishing every blossom. Abundantly borne on neat little vines, they blanket the garden first in mid- to late summer, then return for an encore in fall. This vine grows just 8 feet tall and wide in sunny to partly shaded soil. Like most Clematis, it prefers an eastern exposure and rich, moist soil. Mulch around the base of the plant to keep the roots cool. Hardy zones 3-9.

Garden Phlox "Robert Poore"

2008-01-23T07:36:00.001-06:00

This giant among the garden phlox varieties, with its fragrant, richly colored red-purple flower clusters, is sure to catch your attention when it blooms in mid-summer. Named after Mississippi landscape architect Robert Poore, this is a top-rated phlox for its resistance to powdery mildew, the nemesis of many other paniculata cultivars.

Mardi Gras

2008-01-11T06:26:00.000-06:00

Flamboyant blooms in a novel blend of pink, orange, and yellow, and a delightful peppery scent, Mardi Gras creates a festive atmosphere in any setting. The colorful blooms are perfectly framed with dark green, semi-glossy foliage, and its upright columnar habit makes Mardi Gras an ideal rose to use as a hedge or in a border with mixed perennials.

Location: Full Sun

Height:4 feet

Geranium Elke

2008-01-10T18:24:00.000-06:00

Very long-blooming, beginning in spring, lasting through the worst summer heat, and continuing into fall, also far more tolerant of heat, cold, and even drought than most other hardy geraniums. Charming pink-toned blooms and red autumn foliage, gives you a carefree, colorful, long-lived ground cover.

Location: Sun or Part Shade
Height:10 inches

Ajuga 'Golden Glow'

2008-01-10T11:09:00.000-06:00

Everyone has a burgundy ajuga but this new variety has gold- and cream-variegated foliage.
Location: Sun or Shade
Height: 6-8 inches

Fizz and Food

2007-12-21T07:49:00.000-06:00

Although dry sparklers are the perfect aperitifs enjoyed on their own (it's all because of the crisp acidity, light flavours and clean-tasting bubbles), they do go well with some dishes, especially:
Salmon and other fish mousse
Smoked salmon
Sushi
Crispy fried vegetarian dishes, such as tempura
Asparagus
Fresh prawns
Small filo parcels and creamy vol-au-vents
Spicy canapés, like tiny satay sticks
White fish dishes, such as grilled sole or plaice
Chicken in creamy sauces
Oysters

Citrus Topiary

2007-12-18T07:24:00.000-06:00

Citrus Topiaries are the hot trend for next Christmas, 2008. A festive twist on the traditional decor that will look fresh for the entire winter season.

Christmas Trees Present Day

2007-12-17T07:43:00.000-06:00

Today – Approximately 25-30 million Real Christmas Trees are sold each year in the United States. Almost all of these come from Christmas Tree plantations.

Raclette

2007-12-16T15:35:00.000-06:00

A dish indigenous to parts of Switzerland. The Raclette cheese round is heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates.Traditionally, it is accompanied by small firm potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, dried meats (such as prosciutto), sliced peppers, tomato, onion, mushrooms, pears, and dusted with paprika and fresh-ground black pepper. It is normally accompanied by a white wine, such as a Riesling or a Pinot Gris.

Christmas Trees and the White House

2007-12-16T07:49:00.000-06:00

1966 – The National Christmas Tree Association began its time-honored tradition of having the Grand Champion grower present a Christmas Tree to the First Lady for display in the Blue Room of the White House. That year, Howard Pierce of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, presented a tree to President Lyndon Johnson and First Lady Lady Bird Johnson

Mistletoe Mojito

2007-12-15T08:13:00.000-06:00

1 oz. fresh lime juice

1 tbsp. superfine sugar

8 fresh mint leaves

2 oz. white rum

2 tsp. pomegranate seeds

4 oz. Pomegranate 7UP

1 mint sprig and 1 lime wedge for garnish

In a highball glass, muddle lime juice, sugar and mint leaves until sugar is dissolved.
Add rum and pomegranate seeds.
Fill glass with ice and top with Pomegranate 7UP.

Garnish with mint sprig and lime wedge. Enjoy.
Makes 1 mojito.

Christmas Trees 1901

2007-12-15T06:09:00.000-06:00

1901 – The first Christmas Tree farm was started in 1901 when W.V. McGalliard planted 25,000 Norway spruce on his farm in New Jersey. Also in 1901, Theodore Roosevelt tried to stop the practice of having Christmas Trees out of concern about the destruction of forests. His two sons didn’t agree and enlisted the help of conservationist Gifford Pinchot to persuade the president that, done properly, the practice was not harmful to the forests.

Christmas Trees 1900

2007-12-14T07:05:00.000-06:00

1900s – Due to overharvesting, the natural supply of evergreens began to be decimated. Conservationists became alarmed, and many magazines began to encourage people to substitute an artificial feather covered tree, consisting of a branch of a deciduous tree wrapped in cotton floss and dyed feathers.

Christmas Trees in the Late 1800's

2007-12-13T06:32:00.000-06:00

Late 1800s – The first glass ornaments were introduced into the United States, again from Germany. The first ones were mostly balls, but later chains of balls, toys and figures became more common

Eiswein

2007-12-12T04:25:00.000-06:00

[ICE-vyn]A German term meaning "ice wine," referring to a rich, flavorful dessrt wine. Eiswein is made by picking grapes that are frozen on the vine and then pressing them before they thaw. Because much of the water in the grapes is frozen, the resulting juice is concentrated-rich in flavor and high in sugar and acid. The resulting wines, extraordinarily sweet, yet balanced by high acidity.

Christmas Tree 1800's

2007-12-12T04:22:00.000-06:00

1800s – The Christmas Tree was introduced in the United States by German settlers. It rapidly grew from tabletop size to floor-to-ceiling.

18th Century Christmas Trees

2007-12-11T06:55:00.000-06:00

1700s – In parts of Austria and Germany, evergreen tips were brought into the home and hung top down from the ceiling. They were often decorated with apples, gilded nuts and red paper strips. Edible ornaments became so popular on Christmas Trees that they were often called “sugartrees.” The first accounts of using lighted candles as decorations on Christmas Trees come from France in the 18th century.

New Use for Antique Ornaments

2007-12-10T08:38:00.001-06:00

Antique Christmas ornaments can add an Old World or vintage touch to your holiday décor. Begin a collection of antique ornaments and look for pieces throughout the year. If you have treasured antique Christmas ornaments and are wary of placing them on the tree, you may want to showcase them on tiered glass cake plates and other glass containers and candlesticks.

17th Century Christmas Trees

2007-12-10T07:23:00.000-06:00

1600s – By the 17th century, it was common in Germany to decorate Christmas Trees with apples. This practice was a holdover from the 14th and 15th centuries when evergreen boughs hung with apples were the only prop used in the “miracle plays” that were performed at the churches on December 24. December 24 was Adam & Eve’s Day in the early Christian calendar, and the plays were used as ways of teaching the Bible to a largely illiterate population.

Holiday Plant Safety Tips for Pets

2007-12-10T06:03:00.000-06:00

A number of Christmas season plants are poisonous to pets if nibbled or eaten:

Ivy - moderate to very toxic, all parts

Holly - moderate to very toxic, especially the berries and leaves

Mistletoe - very toxic, all parts, especially the berries

Christmas greens such as balsam, juniper, cedar, pine and fir - all parts have a low level of toxicity

Hibiscus - may cause vomiting or bloody diarrhea if ingested

Poinsettias - leaves and stems low in toxicity.

It's wise to keep plants out of your pets' and children's reach.

Mead

2007-12-09T07:15:00.000-06:00

[MEED]A beverage made by fermenting honey, water, and yeast with flavorings such as herbs, spices, or flowers. Mead dates back to Biblical times and was popular in early England. Although not widely distributed today, it is still bottled. Mulled mead is a popular winter holiday drink, where mead is flavored with spices (and sometimes various fruits) and warmed, traditionally by having a hot poker plunged into it.

Today in Tree History

2007-12-09T05:56:00.000-06:00

1530 – There is record from Alsace, France (then Germany territory) that trees were sold in the marketplace and brought home and set up undecorated. Laws limited the size to “8 shoe lengths” (slightly over 4 feet).

1st Christmas Tree

2007-12-08T10:36:00.000-06:00

1510 – The first written record of a decorated Christmas Tree comes from Riga, Latvia. Men of the local merchants’ guild decorated a tree with artificial roses, danced around it in the marketplace and then set fire to it. The rose was used for many year and is considered to be a symbol for the Virgin Mary.

Reducing Stress During the Holidays

2007-12-07T06:43:00.000-06:00

We all dream of stress-free Holidays. Yes, some stress is natural and even invigorating, it gets the adrenaline flowing, quickens the mind, and energises the body. On the assumption that stress is inevitable, all you can do is learn to live with it, follow a few techniques for relaxation and hope the worst effects are brought under some sort of control. This is fine in its way and there are many suitable techniques you can follow: massage, aromatherapy, and meditation. These are gentle, non-invasive therapies, deeply relaxing and restorative - a great way to reduce excess tension.

White House Christmas

2007-12-07T06:31:00.000-06:00

The tradition of a placing a decorated tree in the White House began in 1889 on Christmas morning during the Presidency of Benjamin Harrison. What began as a family gathering has become a national tradition. Over the years, the White House Christmas tree has reflected both the times and the tastes of the First Family.

Christmas with the Kennedys, 1961

Christmas with the Carters, 1978

Christmas with the Clintons, 1995

Atomic Age Christmas

2007-12-07T06:01:00.000-06:00

Sea Bass

2007-12-07T05:35:00.000-06:00

Sea bass is best in the winter months and can be bought whole, as steaks or as fillets. A whole bass is perfect for a special meal and is a favorite of many a restaurant chef. You may have to pay a little more for sea bass but its tender, soft flesh and its delicate milky flavor is worth the expense. It can be poached, steamed, baked or grilled but, whichever way you choose, take care not to overcook the delicate flesh. Use herbal flavors such as fennel, garlic, mint, tarragon, and rosemary to complement it.

Sea Bass roasted with Rosemary and Lemon

1 Sea Bass fillet

Fresh rosemary

Extra Virgin Olive oil

Sea salt

1 Lemon, sliced

Slash the skin side of the sea bass diagonally so that the flesh is exposed. Put a generous amount of the rosemary into the pockets. Rub the rest of the fish with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Sear in a pan skin side down, and transfer into a hot oven for five minutes. Serve with a drizzle of fresh lemon and good olive oil.

Hanukkah Gelt

2007-12-06T18:25:00.000-06:00

Hanukkah gelt (Yiddish for "money") is often distributed to children to enhance their enjoyment of the holiday. Twentieth-century American chocolatiers picked up on the gift/coin concept by creating chocolate gelt, or chocolate shaped and stamped like coins and wrapped in gold or silver foil. Chocolate gelt is often used in place of money in dreidel games.

Glamorous Table Settings for Hanukkah

2007-12-06T12:56:00.000-06:00

Could latkes possibly taste better than when served at this festive Hanukkah table featuring a dreidel, gelt (gold-covered chocolate coins) and a menorah?

Trees for the Troops

2007-12-06T12:33:00.000-06:00

At this time of year, please remember all our brave men and women overseas who can't be with their loved ones during the Holidays.

For the Boys during WWII

2007-12-06T12:30:00.000-06:00

Ginger Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail

2007-12-06T12:16:00.000-06:00

1 cup Pomegranate juice

1 tablespoon superfine sugar

1 1/2 inch-thick slice fresh ginger

Fresh orange juice

Orange liqueur like Contreau or Grand Marnier

1 750-ml bottle brut Champagne or sparkling wine, chilled

Pomegranate jewels for garnish
Combine pomegranate juice, sugar and ginger in a pan over high heat stirring constantly until mixture is reduced to 1/3 of a cup. Remove ginger and set aside until cool. Pour 4 teaspoons of pomegranate syrup, 1 tablespoon orange juice, and 1 jigger orange liqueur into each of four Champagne flutes. Top off with champagne or sparkling wine. Garnish with a few pomegranate jewels.
Serves: 4

Vintage Carolers

2007-12-06T06:07:00.000-06:00

Pomegranate

2007-12-06T06:03:00.000-06:00

Originating in Asia, the pomegranate tree is mentioned in the Old Testament and has been a symbol of religious significance for centuries in many countries. Now cultivated in the warm climates of South America, the Middle East, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean, the fruit is available from early to mid-winter. About the size of a large orange, it has a leathery skin with a blush of yellow and red. Inside there is spongy pith filled with seeds, which are, in turn, surrounded by a juicy, ruby red pulp. Eating a pomegranate can be a lengthy process as each pip has to be individually extracted, the juicy pulp eaten and the pips discarded. The easiest way to extract the juice is by crushing the seeds through a sieve with the back of a ladle. This can be used to flavor mousse, ice cream or sorbet.

Latkes for the First Night of Hanukkah

2007-12-04T06:12:00.000-06:00

Yield: 4 to 6 servings (12 to 14 pancakes)
6 green onions, light green and white part only, thinly sliced
2 large eggs
2 medium baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons matzo meal (see note)
Canola oil
Sour cream
Purée green onions with eggs in a food processor fitted with the metal blade until smooth. Add potatoes; pulse until finely chopped (mixture should retain some texture). Add salt, pepper and matzo meal; quickly pulse to combine. Do not overprocess. Pour batter into a medium mixing bowl, cover with plastic wrap to prevent discoloration and let sit for 15 minutes. Heat 3/4 inch oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Pour a tablespoon of batter into skillet. If oil is hot enough, pancake will begin to sizzle and brown. Taste pancake and check seasoning. If necessary, add salt and pepper to batter.Spoon tablespoons of batter into skillet, leaving a little room between each pancake. Flatten pancakes with the back of a spoon; use the spatula to round out the sides if necessary. Fry pancakes until they are golden brown on one side, about 2 to 3 minutes, then turn them and brown the other side, about 2 minutes more. Transfer pancakes to a cookie sheet lined with 2 layers of paper towels. Allow excess oil to drain. If necessary, keep pancakes warm in a 275-degree oven. Remove the paper towels before putting them in the oven. To make ahead and freeze: Lay pancakes on a double sheet of aluminum foil. When completely cook, enclose pancakes tightly in the foil. Place on a flat surface in the freezer. When ready to serve, preheat oven to 425 degrees; place foil packets on a baking sheet. Open the packets, exposing the top of the pancakes. Bake the frozen pancakes about 7 minutes, until they are brown and crispy.
Note: If you cannot find matzo meal, substitute about 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.

Deco Christmas

2007-12-03T06:28:00.000-06:00

Environmental Benefits of Live Christmas Trees

2007-12-03T06:14:00.000-06:00

While they're growing, Live Christmas Trees support life by absorbing carbon dioxide and other gases and emitting fresh oxygen. Every acre of Christmas Trees grown produces the daily oxygen requirement for 18 people. In the United States, there are approximately 500,000 acres of Christmas Trees, which means that 9 million people a day are supplied with oxygen thanks to these trees.
The farms that grow Christmas Trees stabilize soil, protect water supplies and provide refuge for wildlife while creating scenic green belts. Often, Christmas Trees are grown on soil that doesn't support other crops. As a renewable resource, Live Christmas Trees are grown on farms just like any other crop. To ensure a constant supply, Christmas Tree growers plant one to three new seedlings for every tree they harvest.

Origins of Artificial Christmas Trees

2007-12-02T05:13:00.000-06:00

Towards the end of the 1800's, a variation of the traditional Christmas tree appeared in Germany: the artificial Christmas tree. Metal wire trees were covered with goose, turkey, ostrich or swan feathers. The feathers were often died green to imitate pine needles.

In the 1930's, the Addis Brush Company created the first artificial-brush trees, using the same machinery that made their toilet brushes! The Addis 'Silver Pine' tree was patented in 1950. The Christmas tree was designed to have a revolving light source under it, colored gels allowed the light to shine in different shades as it revolved under the tree.

Colleen's Cookies

2007-12-01T06:14:00.000-06:00

Looking for just the right gift for that special person on your list. There is no better way to spread holiday cheer than with a present of delicious and beautiful cookies from Colleen's Cookies. Whether sent to say “Thank you” to a hostess for a wonderful party or“Happy Holidays" to a best friend or co-worker, Colleen's Cookies are sure to leave a sweet impression. You can find the site under Favorite Things to the right. Enjoy!

Secrets for a Low-Stress Holiday

2007-11-29T06:40:00.000-06:00

Pick one piece as the focal point, then decorate around it.

Choose one dish you do well.

Host one big open house instead of lots of smaller events.

Shop online, when it’s convenient for you.

Select seasonal items for can’t-miss gifts.

Figs

2007-11-29T05:53:00.000-06:00

The fig is considered to be one of the most sensual of fruits with its tempting, luscious flesh that is at its best when it has been left to ripen in the sunshine. The ancient Greeks recognised the health benefits of figs and included them in the diet of the athletes for the first Olympic Games. Some prefer to peel the fig before eating but the whole fruit is edible and should be eaten at room temperature, as chilling suppresses the flavor.

Eau de Vie

2007-11-28T16:20:00.000-06:00

[oh duh VEE]French for "water of life." This term describes any colorless, potent Brandy or other spirit distilled from fermented fruit juice. Among the grape-based eaux de vie are: eau de vie de marc, eau de vie de lie, and eau de vie de vin (from wine). Probably the two most popular eaux de vie in the world are Kirsch (from cherries) and Framboise (from raspberries).

Parsnips

2007-11-28T16:04:00.000-06:00

Parsnips are a much-loved root vegetable. They actually improve with a frost because the effect of freezing the living root converts some of the starch into sugar. Parsnips are very versatile and can be cooked in much the same way as potatoes. They are delicious parboiled then roasted until they caramelise golden-brown, mashed with cream, braised, steamed or deep-fried in thin slices to make parnsip crisps, a contemporary garnish or snack. They also make wonderful, creamy soups and partner well with apples, spices, ginger and cheese. They often have a tough core which many cooks prefer to discard. They should be scrubbed, not peeled, as most of the flavor lies directly below the skin.

Selecting Wine for Your Holiday Meal

2007-11-28T07:10:00.001-06:00

Even avid wine lovers can be struck with a temporary case of oenophobia — fear of wine — this time of year. The prospect of choosing a bottle that will please all of your guests and complement all of your dishes can perplex the most confident holiday host.

Here are a few helpful ideas:

Begin with bubbles. Offering guests champagne flutes along with hors d'oeuvres helps get everyone in a festive spirit.

Pick fruity wines for the table. Fruit-forward reds — such as Beaujolais, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Zinfandel and unoaked whites provide the most food-pairing flexibility. Among whites, look to Riesling. Serve a white and a red. Some guests invariably drink only one or the other.

Plan a happy ending. Pour a memorable dessert wine: Tawny Port would shine with a chocolate dessert, which has such a delightful, lingering finish that it just might accompany your guests all the way home.

Wassail

2007-11-28T06:10:00.000-06:00

WAHS-uhl, WAHS-ayl]Ves heill, Norse for "be in good health," is an old toast and the origin of this word. Wassail is a drink consisting of ale or wine sweetened with sugar and flavored with spices. This brew is traditionally served in a large "wassail bowl," garnished with small roasted apples and ladled into serving cups.

Wassail
Yield: 8 to 10 servings

8 cups larger-style beer

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons simple syrup (see note)

6 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

4 cups dark rum

Apple slices, for garnish

Lemon slices, for garnish

In a medium saucepan, combine beer, simple syrup, lemon juice, nutmeg and ginger. Heat over medium-high until hot, about 8 to 10 minutes. Do not let boil. Add rum and stir well. Place apple and lemon slices in a heat-proof punch bowl. Add punch and stir 3 times.

Note: To make simple syrup, bring 2 1/2 cups water and 3 cups granulated sugar to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat slightly; let boil slowly for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely, then transfer to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use. Yield: 4 1/2 cups.

How to Care for Your Fresh Christmas Tree

2007-11-28T05:08:00.000-06:00

When a Christmas tree is cut, over half of its weight is water. With proper care, you can maintain the quality of your displayed trees. Below are a number of tips relating to the care of displayed trees:
Displaying trees in water in a traditional reservoir type stand is the most effective way of maintaining their freshness and minimizing needle loss problems.
Make a fresh cut to remove about a 1/2-inch thick disk of wood from the base of the trunk before putting the tree in the stand. Make the cut perpendicular to the stem axis. Don't cut the trunk at an angle, or into a v-shape, which makes it far more difficult to hold the tree in the stand and also reduces the amount of water available to the tree.
Once home, place the tree in water as soon as possible. Most species can go 6 to 8 hours after cutting the trunk and still take up water. Don't bruise the cut surface or get it dirty.
If needed, trees can be temporarily stored for several days in a cool location. Place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket that is kept full of water.
To display the trees indoors, use a stand with an adequate water holding capacity for the tree. As a general rule, stands should provide 1 quart of water per inch of stem diameter. Devices are available that help maintain a constant water level in the stand.
Use a stand that fits your tree. Avoid whittling the sides of the trunk down to fit a stand. The outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed.
Keep displayed trees away from sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process, resulting in less water consumption each day.
The temperature of the water used to fill the stand is not important and does not affect water uptake.
Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree. With many stands, there can still be water in the stand even though the base of the tree is no longer submerged in water.
Drilling a hole in the base of the trunk does not improve water uptake.
Use of lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, will reduce drying of the tree.
Always inspect light sets prior to placing them on the tree. If worn, replace with a new set.
Do not overload electrical circuits.
Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.
Monitor the tree for freshness. After Christmas or if the tree is dry, remove it from the house.
Go to www.realchristmastrees.org and type in your ZIP code to find a recycling program near you.
Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace.

Christmas Tree Characteristics

2007-11-27T05:49:00.000-06:00

WHITE PINE: The largest pine in the U.S., the White Pine has soft, flexible needles and is bluish-green in color. Needles are 2 ½ - 5 in. long. White Pine’s have good needle retention, but have little aroma. They aren’t recommended for heavy ornaments.

WHITE SPRUCE: The White Spruce is excellent for ornaments; it’s short, stiff needles are ½ - 3/4 in. long and have a blunt tip. They are bluish-green - green in color, but have a bad aroma when needles are crushed. They have excellent foliage color and have a good, natural shape. The needle retention is better in a White Spruce than it is among other spruces.

FRASER FIR: The Fraser fir branches turn slightly upward. They have good form and needle-retention. They are dark blue-green in color. They have a pleasant scent, and excellent shipping characteristics as well.

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: Often used for stuffing pine-pillows, these sharp needles are 1 - 1 ½ in. in length. This species is bluish-gray in color and has a bad odor when needles are crushed. This Christmas Tree has good symmetrical form and has an attractive blue foliage. It also has good needle retention. CONCOLOR FIR: These small, narrow needles are around 1 - 1 ½ in. in length and occur in rows. They have good foliage color, good needle retention, and a pleasing shape and aroma.

DOUGLAS FIR: These soft needles are dark green - blue green in color and are approximately 1 - 1 ½ in. in length. The douglas fir needles radiate in all directions from the branch. When crushed, these needles have a sweet fragrance. They are one of the top major Christmas tree species in the U.S.
BALSAM FIR: These needles are 3/4 - 1 ½ in. in length and last a very long time. This tree has a dark-green appearance and retains its pleasing fragrance throughout the Christmas season.

SCOTCH PINE: Approximately 1 in. in length, these needles don’t even fall when they’re dry, providing excellent needle retention. The color is a bright green. The most common Christmas tree in the U.S., the scotch pine has an excellent survival rate, is easy to replant, has great keepability and will remain fresh throughout the holiday season.

NOBLE FIR: These needles turn upward, exposing the lower branches. Known for its beauty, the noble fir has a long keep ability, and its stiff branches make it a good tree for heavy ornaments, as well as providing excellent greenery for wreaths and garland.

Racking

2007-11-26T06:21:00.000-06:00

The process of siphoning off the clear juice from the sediment that has fallen to the bottom of the container either naturally or with the help of fining agents. During the winemaking process, racking can occur three or four times before the wine is clear. After racking, some wines are also filtered prior to bottling to remove any remaining miniscule particles.

Selecting a Real Tree for Christmas

2007-11-26T06:10:00.000-06:00

Be sure you know what size (height and width) you need before heading to the retail lot.

Go to a retail lot that is well-lit and stores trees in a shaded area.

Often, a tree obtained soon after its arrival on the retail lot will be very fresh because it was cut recently. Consumers should ask the retailer when they get the trees: are they delivered once at the beginning of the season, or do they obtain several shipments during the season.

Do a freshness test on the trees. Green needles on fresh trees break crisply when bent sharply with the fingers -- much like a fresh carrot.

Pines have different indicators because of the fibrous nature of their needles compared to firs. The needles on fresh pines do NOT break, unless they are very dry.

Look for other indicators of dryness or deterioration: excessive needle loss, discolored foliage, musty odor, needle pliability, and wrinkled bark. A good rule-of-thumb is, when in doubt about the freshness of a tree, select another one. If none of the trees on the lot look fresh, go to another lot.

Some species last longer and remain fresh longer than others in different climates. Ask your retailer which tree performs best in your climate.

Ask the retailer about recycling Christmas Trees in your community.

Christmas Lights Safety Tips

2007-11-25T06:52:00.000-06:00

Choose Christmas lights that have been tested and deemed safe by a reputable testing laboratory, the best are UL or ETL. Christmas lights listed as safe by these laboratories will note that on the packaging.

Try to use the cooler-burning "mini" Christmas lights as opposed to the traditional larger bulbs. The older style burns much hotter.

Only use Christmas lights that have fuses in the plugs.

Inspect each set of Christmas lights - old or new - for damage. Return or throw out any set with cracked or broken sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.

Replace burned out bulbs promptly with bulbs of the same wattage.

Want Christmas lights outdoors? Use outdoor Christmas lights. The packaging will note whether the lights can be used indoors, outdoors, or both.

All outdoor electrical decorations should be plugged into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). You can buy portable units for outdoor use, or you can have them permanently installed by an electrician.

Use extension cords properly. Outdoor cords can be used inside or outside. Do not overload extension cords - they can get hot enough to burn.

Stay away from powerlines or feeder lines (these go from the pole to the house).

Secure outside Christmas lights with insulated holders (never use tacks or nails) or run strings of lights through hooks.

When you leave or go to bed at night, turn off your Christmas lights.

Never pull on a string of Christmas lights, it stresses the cords and can lead to fraying. Store Christmas lights loosely wrapped for the same reason.

Chestnuts

2007-11-25T06:43:00.000-06:00

Most people conjure up warm memories of roasting them on a cold winter's day. The smell is very enticing and the nut is deliciously moist and sweet. Chestnuts are also important as a baking ingredient because they can be dried and ground into flour for making cakes. Boiling or roasting makes their skins easier to remove and they are perfect served whole with Brussels sprouts. They can be chopped into stuffing for turkey and goose. When buying fresh chestnuts, choose nuts that are heavy and have shiny, smooth skins. They should be used quickly, before they start to dry out when their skins become tough and the nut loses its flavor.

Quinta

2007-11-25T06:31:00.000-06:00

[KEEN-tah]Portuguese for "farm," used to refer to a vineyard site or estate. Quintas, which are similar in connotation to the chateaus of Bordeaux, grow grapes for port, as well as for other wines. Many of the wines end up in house blends, but the concept of single-quinta wine, including single-quinta vintage port, is becoming more popular.

Gamay

2007-11-24T06:37:00.000-06:00

[ga-MAY]The full name of this French red wine grape is Gamay Noir a'Jus Blanc. Gamay wines have gained prominence in France Beaujolais region where this grape, which represents 98 percent of all vines planted, reigns supreme. They're so associated with Beaujolais that winemakers outside of the region often try to imitate the style of immediately drinkable, light- to medium-weight wines with high acid and low tannins. These light purple, fruity wines suggest flavors of bananas, berries, and peaches.