Let the War on Winter Commence! Let the Easter Spring Festivus Begin! { We can’t say Merry Christmas anymore.. does the same go for Easter? } I hated to take down my Boxwood Wreaths.. so I just gave them a new spring up do with pussy willow twigs from last spring, all brushed off and…
♥ Sweetheart Rose Petal Soaps ♥ these were so easy to make using all natural products for delicate or sensitive skin ♥ treat yourself to these velvety Valentine sweetheart bars of rose scented glycerin soap delicately tinted and scented before you go out for Valentine’s Day.. or maybe you’ll just stay in ♥ glycerin is…
Love those!! So pretty for valentines day!! It’s been awhile since making soap. I need to do this. My mom would love them!
Adorable little cakes of soap!
Love your photos. What editing program do you use? I love how you superimpose words, etc on the photos. I am in the market and having trouble choosing.
Such a sweet idea!
I had no idea this is how you make soap! I am completely in love with the scent of rose. I keep rose oil in my closet and spritz my clothes with it. 
And often spritz myself. LOL! Pinning and sharing!! So fun Smidge!
Thanks.. They were so fun to make.. I might have to make more:D xx
Thank you, Tessa.xx
I use Picmonkey.. it’s free or you can upgrade to have more selection. I find it quick and easy to get started. I’m just in an Adobe Photoshop class so I’ll let you know how that goes:) xx
xoxo
It’s a fun little craft.. and pretty versatile too xoxo
Your posts are always such a lovely way to end my day Smidge, thank you!
Mandy xo
Please do! The hubby can get a discount on it as a student but i want to know how it works/if it is any good before I spend the $.
These are so cute! 
We are offered a discount while we’re in the class. I think it is not “upgradable” though. Since it’s a student version, it is affordable but you can’t get any of the newer version upgrades when they come out. So that makes it a tough decision. It’s pretty advanced, but I think it can do so much more in the end. I’m hoping to draw and scan and then work with my own graphics eventually. I have found Picmonkey a really quick way to do fun stuff for free. They have filters, text, etc. that are quick to learn and use. I’ll let you know how it goes!
Gorgeous – I want to go and fill my bathtub right now!
How lovely! I can see making little gifts for friends and family with your “recipe.”. Tell me, Smidge are the glycerin cubes found in most larger craft stores or is it easier to purchase online? Unless I’m missing something, this looks fairly easy for a novice crafter.
I love them and I sear when I’m looking at the pictures I can smell roses. They look relatively simple to make, I think even I could do it!
Meant to say “swear” of course. 
How cute these are!
I found them at our “big box” Michael’s store. I just saw Martha made them with a different technique.. And she stamped xo in them.. Too cute! She also said to spray with alcohol to eliminate bubbles. But I wonder if stirring would work just as well..
What a beautiful idea. These are so gorgeous, Smidge and I just love the colour of them. I’ll have to rush out and buy all the ingredients. And these would make wonderful gifts – if you could bare to part with them! xx
I’ve got a collection of dried roses from prior bouquets…could I use some of them? This is great! xx
That is such a beautiful soap my friend in both smell and look
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
You aren’t just good at cooking up edible things. What sweet little gifts these make. I’ll try to hit a Michaels before Valentine’s Day. thanks for the inspiration. x wendy
What an absolutely gorgeous idea! You are truly multi-talented. xxx
Oh how pretty! You are putting me to shame, I haven’t done one valentines thing yet! Good on you!
My gosh, these are gorgeous! I def. would never mind receiving such pretty gifts for Vday =)
Fantastic
Ooh how lovely. I bet your bathroom smelt pretty good after the bath too!
I’ll be making a change to the supplies list… roses should be organic, no need to have pesticides joining you in the tub:) Maybe call your florist to find out. If not, try finding edible flowers in a whole food market and let those dry.. pansies would be so pretty.. even a whole one xx
first of all I should say this, they were so lovely when I saw my e-mail message with little red hearts and opened with many of them… and then this beautiful and romantic recipe for a soap… you are amazing. Million Thanks, love, nia
These are just adorable! And PERFECT for valentines day. I have been wanting to try and make soap for ages but my boyfriend keeps telling me it would be too messy. These seem proof in point I could make them.
How gorgeous! These would make beautiful gifts.
These are too sweet Smidge! My mom makes all kinds of skincare products and I cant wait to pass this on to her! Maybe she’ll make me some xx
The artwork in these soaps just beautiful….kudos to you my friend!
why would we ever think of going out when (staying in) we can bathe (together) in roses? a plan is taking shape and I’m liking it lots!
Lovely idea this, Smidge, sweet as can be!! xxo
What a fun non-food idea for Valentine’s Day!
It has been a very long time since I last made soaps, and my usual mould is heart shaped
I bet they smell and feel lovely. Sorta want to take a bite too.
Oh my gosh.. it was the absolutely opposite of messy, in fact, I was surprised at how fast and easy it was. Candle making would be different I think? xx
Oh, nia.. your comments are always so heartfelt! xx
Glad to be of assistance;) xx
They would be a pretty gift, I should have photographed them like that:D xx
I was just wondering how long each would last? xx
Thank you, Donna! xx
The great thing is that they can be as light or as strongly scented.. I know some people like a softer fragrance:) xx
Such a beautifully presented post, Barb, expertly photographed and staged.
I have to be honest, though. I doubt if I’ll ever give soap making a try. I’ll stick to pasta and cheese, thank you, but, if ever I change my mind, you’ll be the first to know. Maybe we could try a little bartering. I send you some ravioli for a little soap? It could work.
Sweetness incarnate!! I’ve made some scented soaps with glycerine and lavender. But so lovely with the big petals. Hmmmm, seems I still have some of those supplies somewhere. I wonder where……..
Amazing!
I’ve always wanted to try making glycerin soaps, but never though it was this simple. I need to try this. Thanks Barb!
Very pretty stuff. Beautifully put together. You’re a whizz:)
EEK these are adorable!! I LOVE!
..kid:D
So pretty, so adorable … so sweet, so romantic – I just want a whole bunch of them.
I too had no idea that’s how soap is made and so easy. Yours are so pretty.
Aww…this are soo cute! I love this idea; you come up with sweetest things!!
Very pretty and such a wonderful idea!
These are so pretty, Smidge! You really did make them look so easy to make. You’ve given me such good Valentine’s ideas. I’d better get acting on some of them!
Perfect timing for this one, cutie! Well done!
Those look delicious! Oops… there goes the sweet tooth again! These would make a perfect treat for a bit of pampering for a person sans Valentine! Add chocolate (or wine) for a truly decadent celebration of self-love.
What lovely soap’s! Great idea.
These are absolutely beautiful Barbara. My son is obsessed with soap at the moment. I’d love to make these with him!
Hello there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my facebook group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content. Please let me know. Cheers
Oh my, another thing I’d like to try! I’ve never made soap before, and of course, after seeing yours now I want to! Thank you for the shout out, Barb. It’s always a pleasure to mention your blog – I enjoy it so much that I’d like all my friends and followers to see it too!
Thanks, Mar.. the feeling is likewise:) xxx
Smidge’s won! Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote! Thanks to my family who patiently waited for their cold suppers while I cooked, wrote and photographed their food… and for being willing advisers and taste testers in the kitchen { like that’s a tough job! } I haven’t won “one” , but won…
Congrats!!
Smashing creations.
Congratulations Barb! Well deserved too, your blog is spectacular!! Love the Chrissie candles! xx
Congrats!! Your blog is beautiful! I love all the candle decorations. I, too, love doing crafts and sewing. It’s my other huge passion!! Lovely recipe and presentation on everything!
This post is absolutely brimming with awesome tidings!
Congrats on your much deserved wins my friend, honestly you are brilliant! Also congrats on creating such stunning candles
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Congratulations
I saw this post’s title in my inbox and rushed over to see if you’d won. Congratulations on both counts! Yours is a wonderful blog, Barb, and now you’ve got the votes to prove it!
Could I possibly be happier? I could not!!! Could I possibly be more surprised? Anything, absolutely anything, would surprise me more than Smidge’s successes!!! (now, try imaging YOUR face on that book’s cover – WE all have! And it was easy as pie!)
Joy joy joy Smidge!! Beaming from ear to ear!
So happy for you! xxoo
Congratulations Smidge – twice! Unbelievable you took out the prize in both categories. I’m so happy for you as it’s so well deserved. I bet your family is very proud of you. You sound like you’ve been very busy and your book will be such a great family record – what a keepsake! And I love your candles – yes, irregular shaped ones all slightly different do look best in a group. And these would make beautiful Christmas gifts xx
Congratulations! Cool candles too!
Congratulations! You deserve it.
Congratulations! You totally deserve it. Every time I pop in here for a visit I feel like I’m getting the feeling of afternoon tea–pretty, yummy and relaxing. The candle craft is eye candy too!
I’m so happy for you. you are an inspiration to us all. may this award open many doors for you and lead to even greater successes!
Fantastic…congratulations!
That’s amazing Smidge, and well deserved. Congrats!
Congratulations on winning!!!!! That’s fabulous!
The candles look gorgeous. And I think your idea for giving A Year Of Smidge to your family is an absolutely wonderful memento filled with love, which I’m sure they’ll treasure forever. xx
Yippie!! Congrats, lady! So well deserved. Thanks for always inspiring me with your photographs, recipes, and prose.
xox
¡Enhorabuena! (that´s congrats!) So well deserved. And yto still have time to put together a book, show us some crafts and a recipe You are a seriously inspiring lady!
Hip hip hooray! Smidgey Poo won twice!!!!
I think I’m going to come and spend Christmas in your house. It will be so beautiful. Don’t worry about the family. You can introduce me as a mad aunt and then shut me in a cupboard somewhere. I only want a look!
Many congratulations and thanks for the inspiration.
You definitely have a loyal following that enjoys, appreciates and utilizes what you provide. Hard work though!
I love this candle project. It’s like a simple weeknight recipe that is totally doable but so lovely and sweet.
ps – try a wee pinch of salt in your hot chocolate… you’d be surprised
Congratulations!!
Congratulations! I’m do happy that you won this prestigious award. And then you go and win that really cool cookbook from my friend Barb! Those candles look great; we decided to switch our candles to only beeswax, the paraffin was giving me headaches! We get our beeswax candles from a local business and the guarantee 100% beeswax, the rules in Canada are you need only 10% to declare beeswax on your label!(http://www.canadacandle.com/). If you shop there, tell Brian I sent you!
Hooray! How deserving….
What a beautiful candles dear Barbara, Thank you and congratulations, you deserve. I love you and your amazing blog. Blessing and Happiness, love, nia
Congratulations! I am so happy for your awards – well deserved, I must say.
Congratulations Barbara and very well deserved. It is so obvious from reading your blog that you put in a lot of time, a great deal of effort and a lot of hard work to make Just a Smidgen such a lovely place to visit – it always looks so beautiful. Well done. xxx
Congratulations! Well-deserved award.
Whoo Hoo! Can you hear me hollering with excitement from Washington State? Congratulations, I am so happy for you Smidge and you absolutely deserve the awards. You truly have a gift and it shows in this beautiful blog of yours!!! The candles are lovely. What a beautiful gift for friends and family.
I just have to say however, if you do decided to print extra copies of your 2012 year in review… I’d love to purchase one.
Congratulations Smidge!! I’m so glad you won Beautiful post as usual.
G
Congrats – so excited for you:) Love the candles – thanks for sharing! Have a Great One!
Hooray for you! And candles are a favorite Christmas memory–my mom made them every year. maybe I will revisit the tradition.
What a happy post I love your “A Year of Smidge” idea, very cute. Congrats on your winnings!
Congratulations Barbara that’s wonderful! That’s a really great idea to print out a copy of your recipes for the year. I might do the same. Beautiful candles and what rich looking hot chocolate. I’ll have to save that one for later because it’s way too hot here at the moment!
How fantastic! Congratulations again, and the book is such an exciting idea.
Congratulations, Smidge! x2!! I couldn’t be happier for you…way to go! (Darling candles, too!)
Double congrats Barbara – well deserved! I was Hoping to see a photo of you with that beaver hat as a prize – maybe next year! And the candles are lovely!
Congratulations and very well deserved! Your blog is fantastic!
daisy
I knew you’d win!! I am so jazzed for you congratulations!! Your craft is adorable!
Hot chocolate and crafts! Sounds like an awesome night in!
Terrific: I knew all those votes from Down Under would count double as well ! And thank you for all the wonderful ideas!!
Congratulations, it is well deserved Barbara
Congratulations on your well deserved awards. The candles are gorgeous. The one with the little sparkling bell is divine
Wonderful news, Barb! I’m so happy for you! I’m not at all surprised, to be honest. Your blog posts are both creative and beautiful and always inspiring. What a wonderful gift “A Year of Smidge” is going to be for your family. The cocoa and candles are just another nice touch. Again, Congratulations!! oxo
Yippee, yay! Congratulations Smidge, I never doubted for one second that you would win and no less in both categories – you are a continual inspiration to us all! Your candles are exquisite and make for the most beautiful gifts for any time of the year and for any occasion. Kudos on putting your book together – your family are very lucky!
Mandy xo
Congratulations that’s wonderful !!! Wooo hooo all round ! We all know how wonderful you and your blog are, now maybe some new friend swill too !
And yes please to your winter warmer of hot choccy
Congratulations! Truly well deserved. Your blog is beautiful inside and out. Love the candles; especially beads; classic. And I definitely need to prepare the Mexican hot chocolate; yummy!
Congratulations! You’re so worth it – don’t drink hot chocolate … but if I did – this would be on mine tonight.
Haven’t you got my envelop yer ????!!! Bit worried that it has gone lost.
I’m so happy for you… You truly do deserve both. You have such a gift ! Diane
Hi Smidge, congrats on your award (which is phenomenal recognition) of your hard work indeed. I love a bit of Christmas craft (but as I’m heading overseas) for my Christmas, I’ll have to content myself with your lovely pics.
I’m also a fan of spiced chocolates too, mmm-mm…
Congratulations, winning both awards and Barb’s cookbook prize, yep, buying a lottery may not be a bad idea. Love your candles, you make them look so to make.
No, I didn’t get an envelope? I hope it hasn’t.. I will let you know as soon as I do. What color is it?? xx
Congratulations on both awards!!! That is super awesome!!! Love your candle decorations!
You know you are overly busy when… ….. …… you cannot remember if you already left a comment on your favorite blog! Maybe I did it on Facebook? Oh, well – I say it again: CONGRATULATIONS!
I am always in complete awe of your posts, the beauty, the care, the attention to detail… when I grow up, I want to be just a little bit like you… wait, I am grownup already! OH, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Awwww, congratulations Barb, I’m so happy for you! Well-deserved, to be sure. Ina would be proud of you I am!
Thank you, too, for the wonderful candle decorations, I’m crazy about these, and they fit perfectly into our house’s decor. Just lovely dear.
I just made a cup of Ina’s Mexican hot chocolate myself, so cheers! And congratulations!
Congratulations! And what a great project to share Your creativity is mind-blowing!
You’ve been a busy gal, haven’t you? Congratulations on the much-deserved recognition, young lady! And the book sounds like another victory – no matter where it appears…
Well done – knew you’d win!
Bravo! Bravo!
The world needs more of you!!! Thank you for your joyful presence on the blogosphere.
It is white padded! I’m a bit worried, because some has got theirs and some none.
Huge congrats on the double win!
Congratulations!!!! Good tidings, indeed. You totally deserve it, Barbara.
CONGRATULATIONS! WOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO!!!!!
You won bragging rights and it is something you can put on your resume if you venture out to make more than one copy of your book! I would love a copy BTW!
Congratulations, how exciting! Of course you won: your blog is amazing, has fantastic user friendly recipes and crafts, and your writing is beautiful!
Congratulations on not one but two wonderful awards. I can think of no one more deserving than yourself. I love your beautiful idea with the candles!
Well all I can say is that these two awards are just so well deserved…your blog always inspires, uplifts and adds so much beauty to one’s day. I’m enjoying listening to the music while reading and writing here, and am thinking of how you manage to create such a whole experience for us as readers. You are magical, Smidge! Kudos and congrats to you. Happy Holidays! And I love your candles, too.
Oh my Goodness Smidge, seriously, the next time I’m feeling stressed (give me 10 minutes – ;0) – I’m coming right over and clicking on that peaceful music and scanning your calming, lovely craft images that seem a perfect match for the serene feeling of this post… Inhale…. Exhale… ;0). (Congrats again on your well-deserved award!)
Congrats Smidge! I’ve been meaning to comment on this all week!!! You truly deserve it, you must be so happy. Your candles are fabulous by the way. Hope you are enjoying your holiday season
Congratulations Smidge! You really deserve it
Love the candles and you are a star! Well done! Felicitations ! xx
Congratulations Smidge! The awards are so well-deserved!!!!! I can only imagine how busy you have been. And these crafts are too cute and simple. I love them. Congrats!!!
Congratulations!!!
Congratulations Smidge! You are quite the little busy bee. I think your idea to bind a book for your family is a fantastic idea. Your candles are very comforting and will be a nice addition to the holiday flare this year. Take care, BAM
Your photos are always stunning Barb, but I really love this picture of the hot chocolate. I was thinking that I had already written you a note, but I see here that I haven’t. It has been quite a week, so I apologize for the delay — as I really appreciated the second shout-out about the book. So delighted to hear about this well deserved recognition. You make the rest of us Canuck’s proud!
Congratulations Barbara, you totally deserve it!
Love the rustic stars!
With Christmas coming up.. there are Craft Fairs and Art Markets popping up all over our city! The Telus International Christmas Market began just this past weekend and takes place again next weekend from November 23-25th. The 2012 Cochrane Ranche House Christmas Market takes place Saturday, November 4 from 10-6. November 29 – December 2…
Cherry walnut cookies sound like the perfect accompaniment to a nice cup of tea.
Mandy xo
Those biscuits look and sound wonderful.
Those cookies look lovely and are a perfect fit for the teacup.
Pretty, pretty, pretty plates!
Very pretty and romantic – have seen this on TV – how to turn plates into cake stands on foot. Yours are much prettier than the ones on TV. Love the cookies too – so perfect choice for the post about your romantic plates. I don’t like those cherries – I nearly hate them … *laughing. Terrible product – I think it goes back when I started as a chef and all desserts were decorated with them – sweet and sticky, but still they came out excellent in your cookie.
Did you couscous the other evening – excellent dish – love the dressing. Couldn’t find Lebanese’s couscous – but I found what we call full corn couscous – there will be a post.
What fun – would love to do something like that! And the plates and cookies both look so very pretty
What an incredibly awesome Christmas round up my friend
I don’t know which photo I love the most!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
When I saw the china I thought these would be perfect for you to use as props and then I scrolled down and found the recipe! How beautiful does all of this look. Just gorgeous. I love all of this elegant china xx
Those plates do have your name all over them. Great cookies!
Pinterest has so many amazing people and ideas. Lovely choice. These little plates look perfect with your tasty cookies!
Gorgeous china, perfect to serve your cookies for afternoon tea with a friend.A lovely way to start the holidays.
This years Christmas cookie at our house
I hope you like it was much as we do:)
We will definitely try these cookies, Smidge, they are so pretty and sound so good! I’m LOVING your trays! What a wonderful idea….I can think of a lot of ways to use these. The dishes, etc., that you chose are incredible. The colors are so romantic and beautiful. I applaud your craftiness!!
Very pretty pastel china.
Such fragile and pretty pieces, Smidge. They look great. Here I go to the cookie jar. Can you eat cookies in the bath?
All that crafting sounds wonderful! I can tell you’re looking forward to Christmas. Last week I discovered the best craft shop I’d ever visited. It was in the middle of the countryside, not on a main road, tucked away, and it really was a treasure to find. They had a lovely display of Christmas decorations apart from other things.
Yum! My kind of cookies.
daisy
I’m not sure what’s prettier – your cherry walnut delights or your enchanting craft – what a success; it has a soft whimsical, romantic feeling to it. A snow white set would be gorgeous!
What beautiful dishes! I love the idea of repurposing vintage cups, plates into cake stands. What a great gift idea. I’m not crafty, at all. But I think I could this. So cute! Thanks for sharing Smidge.
Another beautiful post, Barb. I doubt you could have found a better match for your cookies than the cup & saucer that you chose for that photo. This post could be used to exemplify presentation. It really is that well done. Beyond that, I really love the combo of cherries with nuts. I bet these cookies are really tasty.
Barb this sure doesn’t look like frugal crafting. Your cookies and platters are well suited for one another — as they are both beautiful. Now I’m torn between adding these cookies or Nell’s sugar cookies, which have been on my mind for a few weeks now, to my Christmas baking list. Can’t believe baking season is just around the corner . . .
These cookies look so beautifully old-fashioned! It makes me want to revisit some of the recipes of my girlhood — all those things I used to make with Maraschino cherries before I decided they were passé. It would be fun to take a trip down baking memory lane! And I can add lovely new recipes, such as yours.
Thanks for sharing the crafting ideas. The cake stands you made are so pretty. I like your idea for a temporary bond – not only can you mix and match, but these things are much easier to store disassembled. I moved into a bigger house earlier this year, and already I’m running out of space for all my dishes (maybe because my collection keeps growing?).
I was also thinking about Nell’s sugar cookies when I was looking at this recipe; I think I’ll have to make both for my Christmas dessert tray! I love the old-fashioned vibe of both recipes.
What lovely little cookies! And, I just love your collection of rose dishes. Beautiful!
What a sweet idea! I’m looking forward to local craft fairs, too – but holy cow, Christmas already?! Where did the time go??
Love your tea cup and saucer set. Beautiful! Even better that you actually re-purposed them as cookie and cake stands. What a terrific idea! And those cherrry and walnut cookies are so reminiscent of Christmas! They look really addictive! I doubt they will last till Christmas though! =)
This is one high styling, high tea time biscuit. I feel so girly just reading your post and looking at your beautiful China tea saucers and cups. However, I can just tell from the picture these are the kind of cookies that just melt in your mouth and are super buttery. You should give a call to the Peninsula hotel in HK and see if they want to add this to their 4pm high tea menu. Take care, BAM
those cookies look so good! I want to figure out a way to grab one
Oh you are so terribly busy and what gorgeous little morsels those cookie are.. have a lovely day barbie.. c
Hahaha.. they’ll be gone on Friday:D
Clever! – and the cookies look so festive!
I think you’re the classiset blogger on WordPress, dear lady!
Yum to the cookies! One glance at them and they put me in the holiday spirit. And I love tea cups and saucers like the ones in the photo. We have a local store that sells overstocks on dishes and kitchen stuff. I love perusing the aisles checking out the interesting patterns! I always say I’m going to collect teapots and such, but oh what a collection that would become . . .
What a fun and pretty set of stands you made. And your cute little serving dish was perfect for those cute little cookies. I love the combination of the dried cherries with the walnuts. Sounds divine!
My husband strongly dislikes candied fruit…the silly.
Beautiful photos. I’ll have to pin these cookies because cherry desserts are my husband’s favorite
I’m glad there arn’t many of those store here in St. John’s. I’d be broke over broke buying dishes.
They are beautiful and has a festive charm. So does those cookies. So Christmasy. Love the festive air even on this blogsphere!
Love your teacup creations! And the cookies look heavenly. Going to share with my crafty friends.
Looks so English, I feel like having some tea just by looking at it
Nom, nom, nom, nom. nom. It’s breakfast time here and somehow fruit isn’t as appealing as your cookies !
Those plates look gorgeous, and complements really well with the cookies..I’m buzzing for some crafty time now
You have Christmas markets in canada? wow I think so I have to take my husband there one day. We have family members there but I am not sure where they all live. I love Christmas markets, they are the most wanted markets in Europe. I mean, how wonderful is it to see all those pretty goodies, sweets etc, drinking some hot spiced wine watching the snow falling and experiencing the happy atmosphere altogether.
Nice plate set Barbara. Is there a stamp on the back?
Oh I wish I could have your Cherry Walnut Cookies to chew on right now.
Barbara, I love the cozy antique places. I could spend days going through them. Love the markets!! Thank you for the gentle reminders of how wonderful these places are to shop at and learn about history. I love your style of writing~beautiful.
Your cherry walnut cookies are absolutely holiday and sweetness all together! I love them!
Aren’t you just the cleverest with these beautiful cake plates and tea accessories! You’ve given me wonderful inspiration! I have so many of these “odd pieces” sitting around. Many belonged to my grandmother and have no real value beyond sentiment, and this would be so fun to do for my nieces and daughter! Thanks for a relatively quick project! And I love the cookies. I’m big on cookies with fruit in them. And these would be Christmasy, too! By the way, your blogsite just gets more and more beautiful, Barbara!
Smidge, my husband is crazy about this type of dishes – I warmed up to them quite a bit after marrying him, because back home my family’s style (or lack of… was not quite like it. Now they seem charming, cozy, comforting, and sensual to me.
Loved the cookies too…
but I meant to ask you about the nomination for the best blogger in the Canadian contest… Please let me know what happened, my fingers are still crossed and it’s starting to hurt
Many hugs going your way, your blog is simply amazing! (but you knew how I felt already…. no big news)
What a glorious post, Barbara! I love the idea of making cake stands like this.
A pure white Christmas. the very best kind…
Hi, I have nominated you for the Super Sweet Blogging Award! Check out this link for details. http://helpwithyourlife.wordpress.com/2012/11/21/super-sweet-blogging-award/
Enjoy!
Those cookies are so beautiful! Look really tasty. Enjoy your blog!
I can think of a few women in my life who would appreciate some these items as Christmas gifts!
And I yours:)
Well there you go.. one present done;)
Thanks so much! As you might have noticed on my last post.. I am often very late in getting to respond to awards and such, but it doesn’t diminish the pleasure I feel when I receive one.. I’m always grateful.. thanks again!
I would love to see pure white contemporary done too.. it would be pretty:)
I’m glad you’ve warmed up to them. They’re pretty to look at.. I try to leave little things like this around, it cheers a person up on a bloody gray and snowy day, lol! Hey, the voting ends at the end of November.. my fingers are crossed to, but in the end, it’s all for fun:) I sure appreciate you voting, Sally! xx
You’re lucky if you have odd bits.. I was thinking I’d love to have an online website for that sort of thing.. there are so many crafts like mosaics that can be done with bits of china. Glad you liked these:)
I’ve become a bit of an “addict”.. every now and then I love just wandering and looking.. not necessarily buying. But I see items and love that I remember them in my house growing up:)
Oh, hot spiced wine.. I’d forgotten about that! Yes.. that’s exactly what feels like Christmas for me.. not the big malls, etc. Stamp… I’ll go look, just a minute, lol! I’m back.. the transferware says RS and Germany:) and the other says “English Rose”. xx
Me too.. must be the Christmas spirit.. I’m working on my next craft, lol!
Oh, but Claire.. now you’ve saved room for Christmas party food, yay!
They are yummy.. I’ll be slicing up more for work tomorrow:D xx
I love that you call them biscuits..
I wonder if cookies can be dunked in tea..
Thanks! I fell in love with them:)
Maybe that was Martha Stewart’s show:D That’s where I found the idea.. she’s got a great website for this sort of thing. Yes.. you’d think someone would have figured out a better fruit substitute? Full corn couscous sounds intriguing!
I like crafts.. as long as they’re pretty easy:)
Thanks xx
Me too.. as much as I love cookies:) xx
I’m worried that I’m turning into a granny.. I’m too young to turn into a granny, lol!
It really is a cool app/website.. what did we do before? I guess just magazines?
Thank you, Judy, that’s a great compliment coming from you:)
That’s me.. a hopeless romantic:D
Thank you xx
Of course.. but I must caution you.. you risk not catching the crumbs that fall and eating those as well:)
That is totally the sort of store I’d love to find! Lucky you!! I hope you write about it for us to see!
Thank you, Daisy!
It would.. I wish someone would make one.. or I just might have to:) xx
They are good.. not too sweet, and the cherries were remarkably not too artificial tasting.. thankfully:) And thank you, as always.. your kind words are appreciated!
Oh, dear.. decisions.. Nell’s are a bigger cookie.. that I think kids would love because of their size. These ones are tinier/daintier, more for a small adult treat after a big dinner:)
Me too!! I’m thinking I need to move into a small house that has a separate studio in the yard.. so my home isn’t overflowing with dishes:) xx
Thanks, Tessa!xx
High Tea!! I’ve got to do that soon! Thanks for the reminder! I think the Palliser Hotel here has a high tea.. it would be so fun! xx
Some day I need to figure out how to ship these without having them break:)
These are busy days, aren’t they c? Take care! xx
Well, a girl’s gotta make up for her lack of a garden;)
Well, thank you!!
What a great store.. that’s what I think we need here. Tea pots.. those would be hard to store. Plates lay flat and cups stack.. it might be a little easier for you:) xx
I thought about changing the nuts.. but I do think the walnuts are the best choice for this cookie.. xx
Haha, more for you I guess!
I hope you have the chance to try them. I’ve been pinning like crazy, I now realize there aren’t enough meals, snack times or hours in the day to cook/bake everything I’ve pinned, lol!
Now you’re the second person to mention St. John’s today! Yes.. it can be addicting, especially for food blogging:)
I wish I had thought of these when I was a teacher.. the Kindergarteners could have made these:)
You’re right.. it is all very English:) Now I’m off to make some tea! Night!
It is so easy.. and the possibilities sure are endless:)
Yes, and I can’t wait to make my Christmas Stollen…even though I am afraid of yeast. It’s not Christmas without it! And since he won’t eat it…IT’S ALL MINE!!!
I haven’t written about it, but I’ll send you the FB Page so you can see some of their photos from previous years. I don’t know that they’ve got any festive ones though.
No it’s was a Swedish TV show, in Sweden we don’t have Martha*smile
Had your couscous dish twice now – because I had some dressing left. Stunning – will do a post about it. So easy to make too.
How festive! I can’t wait for Christmas and Christmas markets x
Doh’t forget, if you go with the smaller, daintier options then you can eat more of them. There’s something so appealing about going back for seconds (and thirds
Oh yes, I’m with you there. I definitely a test kitchen/studio/writing sanctuary in my backyard. Must get started on the plans …..
Holy cow! Comment city! Good for you, Barbara! Love the tea cups and the dainty propriety of the post. Mom used to make a almond cherry shortbread that looks just like this cookie. Now I make them. So yummy! V
Love the biccies! Must make some soon as we love cherries and walnuts
I received a thank you gift similar to what you have made but the top was another teacup. It had been filled with a homemade candle. It is very lovely as are your cookies.
What beautiful dishes! I love going into antique stores! I usually don’t buy much but I love to look. Your cookies look and sound quite delicious! Hope you’re having a great weekend!
OMG I lovelovelove that cake stand made from the plate on top of the glass candlestick – and would make storing something so odd shaped so much easier ! Such beeeaauuutiful plates and such a great idea. I wonder if there are any such stores in Singapore… I must go and scour – I may not find anything as pretty but I’m sure I would be able to find some old Chinese plateware to replicate.
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
You make it all sound soooo easy! But knowing myself and the fact that I seem to have two left hands, I would never attempt it
ENjoy your Spring Festivus! (loved the name….)
Lovely photos as usual.
Yellow tulips. What could shout spring any louder than yellow tulips?! They have not yet begun to peak through the ground here, but they will. SOON! Christmas? Easter? Say it all year, Hope is never out of season.
Amen, sister!
Agree with Sallybr, you make it sounds so easy, I too have to left hands when it comes to crafts. How spring that you have pussy willows in your garden already.
Loving the decorations – very creative and crafty and simple though:) Thanks for sharing – Have a Great One!
Spring has sprung! Doubters, bah! Look here, how can it be questioned? Smidge has brought us beautiful Spring! (You’ve inspired me, friend! You’ll see how, soon.
) Beautiful beautiful, everywhere, everything! and this wreath is one i want to make … and so will my girls! What fun! Breeze through that test tomorrow, Smidge, then fill your belly with good good things! Thank you for today! xoxo
Ah spring. It always brings out the creativity in a person.
Wonderful springlike colours!
Your spring setting looks utterly beautiful
Cheers
CCU
Everything is so very pretty and it looks so cheering.
I admire how you can find the time to do all these crafty, decorating type things. I have good intentions but that’s where it tends to end. Sadly! I love how you are bringing Spring into your world. I’m sure the weather will be submitted into following you. I always say, ‘Merry Christmas’ and I’ll be saying, ‘Happy Easter’ too xx
Your post has me excited for spring to come! Time to re-decorate!
So beautiful Barbara and I love the wreath. I did a little Easter decorating yesterday but nothing like yours.
I love and adore the new wreath! You make everything look so effortless. But we know better. You are amazing!!
This is absolutely lovely in every way, Smidge. I love your table…all the silver and thoughtful touches and that burlap wreath. My mama is right! I must make one for our place. Just my style.
Sending love! Happy Spring!
Wonderful how you’re bringing Spring into your home, regardless of what is going on outside its door. All of those little touches — and especially the new wreath — surely make you home special for all who visit. All this and a fast, too? Wonder Woman!!!
I just love your decorating ideas and wish I had I/100 of the storage space you have in my apartment in H K. So beautiful but I have no space and no storage it is just way things are when your mobile. I will just enjoy your beautiful space instead. Good luck with your move Smidge and contact me if you need anything.
Your artistry never fails to impress and thrill! Spectacular, glorious. And a very welcome touch of spring to put a spring in all our steps!
Beautiful! Love love love burlap. Your blog (and photos) are amazing! I’m so glad I found you
I found you today thru the Happy Hour Linky Party at Designing Dining and Diapers where I’m #210. I hope you get a chance to stop by my blog and leave a comment, too!
~ Megin of VMG206
http://www.vmg206.blogspot.com
Smidge – I don’t think you mentioned, how wide is the jute garland you used?
Sorry! The ribbon is 5 1/2″ or 14 cm wide.. I’ll amend the instructions:) xx
Thank you! One last question (I think) where did you find it? I’ve looked on Amazon and at local craft store and 4″ width seems to be the widest I can find…so far. Thanks love!
I would try four inch but maybe buy an extra roll so you can return it if you don’t need it? I bought mine at Michael’s. I did have to phone each store and found one in the north east that had some in stock:) I hope you find some in your area. Do you have a Michaels?
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I just love the atmosphere you created! Something about that light blue candle just makes me HAPPY.
I love the spruced up boxwood wreath, too. We used to have a row of boxwoods on our front walkway when I was growing up, but they all came down with something and died. Still, whenever I see a boxwood anything, it makes me smile.
Wow! Your photos are simply beautiful Smidge, I just love them. That little store would be dangerous near me…I’m a sucker for cool antiquey things! I love the wreath, it’s fantastic and so rustic. What a wonderful idea and perfect execution.
Lovely ideas for a beautiful tablescape for spring and Easter.
Ta da indeed! Hope the routine tests are all good
Everything looks so beautiful Barbara! I love burlap…just used it as centerpiece table accents for a shower I hosted…love the rustic nature of it! Love those wreaths! Everything you did looks very elegant and perfect for spring!
[...] Did Someone say Burlap: Spring Festivus!. Note: This blog is too aesthetically pleasing not to visit at least once. [...]
I think your home must be such an interesting and beautiful place….Diane
Everything looks so beautiful! Thanks for sharing
beautiful wreath and wow I love the flowers picture! would love to have you to style my apartment, really could use some interior decoration help. ciao
I’m anxiously awaiting spring! All your photos make me smile, and that ceramic blue bird is so cute.
Just found you. You’re one of the few Canadian craft blogs that I’ve really loved! Check me out at http://www.fynesdesigns.com (I’m in NS)!
Ahh, Smidge, you’re just what I need on a grey day!
Plus, I can fall about laughing at the mess I’d make of one of those beautiful wreaths. Thank you for the smiles.
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Your decorations are always so beautiful! I love the wreath. It is burlap elegance…how creative!
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