There's always room for a story …
Jimmy Dean – my 4-year-old cat, who seems to appear at least once a month on this blog – is my funny Valentine’s this year. He’s sweet, comical, and makes me smile, with my heart. I think you can agree, his looks are unforgettable … photographable, perhaps? And truth be told, it really does feel like each day is Valentine’s with my little man.
By now, you’ve probably realized I do enjoy my tea. And recently, I took full advantage of my time away from work – thankfully too, since it’s been quite chilly outside – and enjoyed some time relaxing. As a part of my de-stressing strategy, my mom and I shared some afternoon tea, complete with regular Red Rose (usually I opt out for peppermint or green), and had a chance to use her lovely new tea set.
Simplicity is always fantastic, isn’t it?
It’s pretty rainy at home in Ajax, today. So, what better way to spend time than with a mug of peppermint tea and a handful of Steve Martin books. Mr. Martin is one of my favourite authors – actually, one of the only authors I truly enjoy.
Below you will see my collection of books, ranging from his autobiography, screenplays, the famous Shopgirl novella and Cruel Shoes – one of my go-to funny books … something I would love him to sign one day. I found it in a used bookstore many years ago and my Dad bought it for me for about $20. Now, it retails on Amazon for almost $200 new.
You’ll also see his newest release, The Ten, Make That Nine, Habits of Very Organized People. Make That Ten. It’s a very tiny book, that had me digging through what seemed like giant books just to find it! But it’s cute … and contains the tweets and tweet conversations of Steve Martin. A quick and quite fun dialogue to read.
In a few more weeks, it will be time for roses, chocolates, and cute DIY Valentine’s card ideas! Love it or hate it, most girls seem to adore it – including myself. Want to give something from the “heart,” this year? I can show you a simple and quick a craft to make for your special lady, friends or family, or even an easy craft for kids.
Sketch a heart, or make a template and place it onto your Valentine’s card stock. I used ready-made pink cards from the dollar store, and glued on rhinestones and sequins to complete the shape – keep in mind, you can also reuse old buttons, it looks just as good.
Want to make a personalized DIY housewarming gift basket for family or friends? Maybe something that looks a little like this? The following basket features hand-designed mugs, gluten free chocolate chip cookies, Hickory Farms English Breaskfast tea, spreads and mustard. This inexpensive homemade gift is simple to make, and I will be using it as a gift for a good friend.
I was inspired to make this gift after I visited the Courtice Flea Market, and saw some of the adorable handmade products offered by Abstrakt Studios. The owner of these crafty gifts is Kate-Lynn, and she creates some great cards, mugs and wallets – to name a few. I managed to pick up two mugs, “His” and “Hers”, and reused an old basket from Fruits & Passion.
I added in some spreads from Hickory Farms. This company makes some fantastic gourmet products, and I added in some miniature jam spreads, tea, and mustard. These products go on sale right after the holidays, so you’re getting them for about 75 per cent off the regular prices.
And finally, I included a couple of gluten free chocolate chip cookies. Gluten intolerance is more common than some may realize and local supermarkets do have a specialized section for these items. I just added a few, for the couple to enjoy with their tea.
Once you’ve completed packing your basket, wrap using cellophane and ribbon. It looks beautiful and is something classy to give others.
