The Little Things

The historian Ken Burns remarked that history lies not just in the world's 'big events' but also in the little things that go on all around us every day.


This little sewing kit got me wondering about its history. Barely visible on the leather case are the words 'U.S. Marine Sewing Kit.'


The stories it could tell.

Bowl O' Berries

I found these wonderful old bowls at a flea market recently. They came from the estate of a 92 year old woman. They were marked down from $90 to $75. Way over my budget. Well, it was the end of the day and starting to drizzle. Seeing how much I liked them, the seller offered them to me for $25! She even wrapped them up in pretty cloth napkins. I couldn't resist.

Repurposed Junk

Except for a little cleaning here and there, I use my junk "as is" - I just try to find a new purpose for it.


An oil can is now a vase.


A rusty tin bucket holds soap.


An old post is a candleholder.


A glove mold holds jewelry.


A metal carrier is perfect for CDs.

Farmington Antiques Weekend

One of my favorite shows is Farmington Antiques Weekend held on the Polo Grounds in Farmington, CT twice a year - June and September. Not as big as it once was, but still a great show. Here are just some of the goodies I came across this year.

The Frog

...is finished at last! Started her weeks ago, but kept forgetting to buy green paint :-) Anyway, I think she was worth the wait.

Rocky

He's a good boy!

A Taste of Primitive

Doll by Little Country Loft

The term "primitive" is freely used to describe one style of dollmaking. There are many categories for the current primitive look, but most need one or more of the following qualities:

...Look of age - a deliberate aging by use of dyeing, fading, staining or distressing of fabrics. This gives them a time-worn, even dirty, appearance that something old might have.

...Innocence - crooked stitches, unproportional features, mismatched fabric and buttons are used. The look is generally simplistic but uninhibited.

...Intentionally ugly - big button eyes, bald and misshapen heads, rusty wire for hair, and a dominance of muted colors are used.

...Embellishments and fabrics - the fabrics chosen might include homespuns, wool, and other naturals. Often, vintage fabrics find new life on primitive dolls. Clothes are sometimes embroidered with decorative stitching or verses.

There is no right or wrong with primitive cloth dolls, they just are. Truly, primitive is in the eye of the beholder.

Memorial Day

Freedom isn't free.

Antiquing in Madison CT

Great finds to be had at the antique show on the Madison Green.





Very retro!





Love her!











Aren't these the sweetest little dresses?





So cute!

Grungy Sugar Cones

In Colonial times sugar was sold in solid form - often in blocks or cones. This recipe makes 2 sugar cones or 2 small cakes.

6 Cups of brown sugar
6 Tablespoons of water
Cooking spray
Deep cooking non-stick pot
Candy thermometer
Sugar cone mold or small aluminum pie pan
Wooden spoon

Spray mold or pie pan with cooking spray including sides and rim. Wipe out excess. Spray pot with cooking spray. Place sugar and water in pot. Stir well. Put pot on medium heat. Wait about 2 minutes then turn heat on high. Sugar will foam up. Continue to boil and stir well until sugar is dissolved. Place candy thermometer in pot and boil to 220 degrees. Remove from heat. (Optional: add 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon, allspice or cloves) Cool for 4-5 minutes. Pour into molds. Let sit until completely hard and then remove. (If mixture gets hard and sets up too soon, add 3 tablespoons of water and place back on heat until you reach 220 degrees.)