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	<title>The Fairfield House</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com</link>
	<description>Victorian Farmhouse Life</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 19:07:45 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Wild Thing</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/05/08/wild-thing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/05/08/wild-thing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 02:12:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4247</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[“Cats are dangerous companions for writers because cat watching is a near-perfect method of writing avoidance” ~ Dan Greenburg Some friends we choose. Some friends choose us. A few weeks ago this feral cat decided to enjoy the sunshine at the Fairfield House. As any good hostess would, I offered some food and drink and as a result [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>“Cats are dangerous companions for writers because cat watching is a near-perfect method of writing avoidance” ~ Dan Greenburg</em></p>
<p>Some friends we choose. Some friends choose us.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/05/08/wild-thing/img_6439/" rel="attachment wp-att-4249"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4249" title="feral cat" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_6439-628x497.jpg" alt="feral cat" width="628" height="497" /></a></p>
<p>A few weeks ago this feral cat decided to enjoy the sunshine at the Fairfield House.</p>
<p>As any good hostess would, I offered some food and drink and as a result my guest has decided to take up residence.</p>
<p>Each day I earn more trust and am allowed a step closer.</p>
<p>He now answers me when I talk to him and has taken to rubbing against my legs when I walk out with dinner.</p>
<p>When he&#8217;s more tamed I plan to bring him to the vet to be neutered and vaccinated.</p>
<p>Next project: A cat house.</p>
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		<slash:comments>26</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>A Jersey Devil</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/21/a-jersey-devil/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/21/a-jersey-devil/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Apr 2012 02:50:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4210</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;Well, it&#8217;s Groundhog Day&#8230; again&#8230;&#8221; ~ Bill Murray, &#8220;Groundhog Day&#8221; Yesterday, I had different post planned and was taking my daily walk/run around the property&#8217;s perimeter with Scout, our Rat Terrier. Thomas has warned me on more than several occasions to always take my iPhone and a walking stick, to which I respond with my [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>&#8220;Well, it&#8217;s Groundhog Day&#8230; again&#8230;&#8221; ~ Bill Murray, &#8220;Groundhog Day&#8221;</em></p>
<p>Yesterday, I had different post planned and was taking my daily walk/run around the property&#8217;s perimeter with Scout, our Rat Terrier.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_5561/" rel="attachment wp-att-3556"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3556" title="perimeter" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5561-628x391.jpg" alt="perimeter" width="628" height="391" /></a></p>
<p>Thomas has warned me on more than several occasions to always take my iPhone and a walking stick, to which I respond with my sheesh face which looks something like this.  : /    I am no delicate petunia. I am an experienced hiker, survived winter camping, and am aware that animals won&#8217;t bother you unless they are hungry or you are a threat. I felt pretty certain I would not run into a Great White Shark along my path. After all, I&#8217;ve had mice on me and been in close contact with snakes and bats. I am the person that stops traffic to move turtles, even snappers.</p>
<p>So, I was on my way with Scout, with no cell phone, camera in tow, and no walking stick, happily snapping photographs for the intended post and thanking God for his many blessings &#8212; the beautiful day, the abilities to walk and transport me to this magical place, to see the beauty before me, to hear the birds, to feel the warmth of the sun and to smell the scent of spring. It was another day to discover all life has to offer. I decided to create a wild flower bouquet.</p>
<p>As I&#8217;ve previously mentioned, there is an <a title="Soaring Spirit" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/">abundance of wildlife in the area</a>. Halfway through our walk Scout paused and pointed, it was not a big deal. He does this often. But, when I heard a loud rustling in the brush I hesitated, considering what it might be—obviously it was too big for a bird or rabbit, perhaps it was an owl or deer.</p>
<p>Suddenly the largest ground hog (yes, I said ground hog) I&#8217;ve ever seen was staring us down, unafraid. He ran  to Scout who was actually smaller in size and started fighting. Fortunately Scout was much too fast for him and the groundhog couldn&#8217;t reach him.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/21/a-jersey-devil/img_6417/" rel="attachment wp-att-4214"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4214" title="Groundhog &amp; Scout" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6417-628x384.jpg" alt="Groundhog &amp; Scout" width="628" height="384" /></a></p>
<p>Both of them were running down the path, toward the pond. I was sure the Ground Hog was going to seek refuge there, as they are known to be strong swimmers. I ordered my dog to back off and allow the animal time to disappear. We all had enough excitement for one day. I was even afforded the chance to take a few photographs. As it happened, the Ground Hog had other plans. It turned and focused on me.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/21/a-jersey-devil/img_6419/" rel="attachment wp-att-4215"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4215" title="groundhog" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6419-628x427.jpg" alt="groundhog" width="628" height="427" /></a></p>
<p>&#8220;Seriously?&#8221; I thought,  &#8220;Dude, you may not know this but you are a ground hog. Seeing your shadow scares you back into your den.&#8221;  I considered the possibility, that perhaps I was wrong. Maybe it&#8217;s a badger? No, it&#8217;s ground hog, a ground hog on steroids&#8211;a Jersey ground hog. Swinging his clawed fists at me and showing his huge incisors, in full attack mode. I swung my expensive super duper camera at him in defense. He was not fazed.</p>
<p>Neither was I; I mean, how fast could he possibly run? I took off. After a few yards I looked back to see just how fast a ground hog could run, promptly tripped and fell to the ground. Lying there on the ground, my life flashed before my eyes. I heard Thomas&#8217; instructions and wished I had listened. If only I had my phone I could call him at work for a final farewell. I looked up at the beautiful blue sky and white cotton candy clouds and noticed the turkey buzzards (aka vultures) circling. So this is how it ends, God? I will be ravaged by a rampant rodent with rabies, my remains left to be picked apart by a turkey buzzard? I knew I should have had Wheaties instead of Coco Puffs this morning.  At least when Thomas returns home from work and locates a few of my bones, the camera will hold the tell-tale evidence of who did me in. It&#8217;s odd what you think of, when you know your life is ending: &#8220;How will my blog reader&#8217;s know? Surely Thomas will do a post on this.&#8221;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/21/a-jersey-devil/img_6415/" rel="attachment wp-att-4216"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4216" title="groundhog running" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6415-628x418.jpg" alt="groundhog running" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>Everyone has experienced OH SHIT moments. This was mine. The creature was about to leap onto me just when my faithful canine intervened and distracted him long enough for me to pull myself to my feet. Again, I wish I had listened to Thomas. If I had a walking stick I could defend myself from this beast. I had only a small bouquet of wild flowers in my hand. What was I going to do, toss petals at him and sing Kumbaya? Worth a try: &#8220;Someones angry my lord, Kumbaya.&#8221; It didn&#8217;t work. With no other option and just as he was about to grab hold of my leg with his death grip and take a chunk of it using those incredible teeth, I realized this was my moment&#8211;at last the years of martial arts lessons would finally pay off. I didn&#8217;t waste all that time after all. In short, I kicked him. Hard. I felt horrible doing it and still do. I don&#8217;t like to cause pain. Unfortunately, this groundhog had apparently been training longer than me and his response was proof positive I don&#8217;t like causing pain, because he didn&#8217;t feel any. He was only briefly stunned and then continued to chase us&#8211;the entire way to the road, a half mile unpaved road to hell. My beloved eagle sat on his perch watching. I prayed he would swoop down for some take out. But obviously, his money was on the Ground Hog.</p>
<p>Bruised and battered it is but for the grace of God that I am here today to share this story. Did I say groundhog? I meant black bear, er grizzly bear&#8211;yeah, that&#8217;s it…</p>
<p>Groundhogs are known to have aggressive personalities, and will fight to the death, preferably yours, if protecting a litter. Although I am making light of the incident, I was afraid my dog or I would be injured. Luckily, we weren&#8217;t bitten or scratched.  It&#8217;s a good reminder to keep your pet&#8217;s rabies vaccinations up to date.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>32</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Book Ends</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 02:20:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4176</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;Cats are just tiny women in cheap fur coats&#8221; ~ Unknown The &#8220;Siamese sisters&#8221; (Mishka, left; &#8216;Puter on the right) have recently been complaining and demanding equal media coverage since both of our dogs, Buster and Scout, have been featured on our blog. They claim to not understand why we continually report on the lowly [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>&#8220;Cats are just tiny women in cheap fur coats&#8221; ~ Unknown</em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/100_1488_1/" rel="attachment wp-att-4177"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4177" title="Book Ends" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/100_1488_1-628x232.jpg" alt="Book Ends" width="628" height="232" /></a></p>
<p>The &#8220;Siamese sisters&#8221; (Mishka, left; &#8216;Puter on the right) have recently been complaining and demanding equal media coverage since both of our dogs, <a title="The Gift" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2010/12/08/the-gift/">Buster</a> and <a title="The Rat Stuff" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2010/08/27/the-rat-stuff/">Scout</a>, have been featured on our blog.</p>
<p>They claim to not understand why we continually report on the lowly antics of a mere dog when we could be covering the exciting exploits of two members of the royal family of cats. Every day&#8217;s calendar is packed: There&#8217;s the sleeping and eating! The mouse chasing! (There&#8217;s nothing more fun than catching a mouse and bringing it to moi as I sleep in my bed. This happened twice, apparently almost scaring me to death once was not enough. The mice were still alive.) The bird watching!  (Could someone please explain how an indoor cat ran past me with a bird in her mouth?)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/100_1528/" rel="attachment wp-att-4180"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4180" title="bird watching" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/100_1528-628x471.jpg" alt="bird watching" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Have I mentioned the fascinating feat of eating and sleeping? The game of bathroom &#8220;bat&#8221;miniton? Yes, they caught a bat in the bathroom. What could be better? It&#8217;s a bird, it&#8217;s a mouse, it&#8217;s two, two, two treats in one!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/100_1148/" rel="attachment wp-att-4181"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4181" title="eating" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/100_1148-628x419.jpg" alt="eating" width="628" height="419" /></a></p>
<p>Then there&#8217;s the eating and the sleeping. The playing with a live ssslithering string (don&#8217;t ask, but remember, they are <strong><em>indoor</em></strong> cats). The midget wrestling. The daily allowance of eating and sleeping, leaping of tall obstacles in single bounds, racing up and down three flights of stairs for no particular reason. Yet somehow there is time for more eating and sleeping before brushing up on covert stalking and pouncing techniques followed by (what else?) eating and sleeping.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/100_1157/" rel="attachment wp-att-4182"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4182" title="Mishka resting" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/100_1157-628x471.jpg" alt="Mishka resting" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Thomas claims the perfect pet for a man is a cat&#8211;they sleep 18 hours a day, and eat nothing but meat (it&#8217;s an aspirational thing).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/18/book-ends/100_1039/" rel="attachment wp-att-4183"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4183" title="cats sleeping" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/100_1039-628x342.jpg" alt="cats sleeping" width="628" height="342" /></a></p>
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>April Showers</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 14 Apr 2012 01:16:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4133</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ “&#8230; millions long for immortality who don&#8217;t know what to do with themselves on a rainy Sunday afternoon.” ~ Susan Ertz  What do you get when you spend a quarter on galoshes at Good Will, wash two empty tin cans and collect some spring blooms from your yard? Smiles. Lots of Smiles. ********************************* Linking to: [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em> “&#8230; millions long for immortality who don&#8217;t know what to do with themselves on a rainy Sunday afternoon.” ~ Susan Ertz </em></p>
<p>What do you get when you spend a quarter on galoshes at Good Will, wash two empty tin cans and collect some spring blooms from your yard?</p>
<p>Smiles. Lots of Smiles.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/img_6168/" rel="attachment wp-att-4135"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4135" title="galoshes &amp; tulips" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6168-628x897.jpg" alt="galoshes &amp; tulips" width="628" height="897" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/img_6169/" rel="attachment wp-att-4136"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4136" title="galoshes &amp; tulips 2" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6169-628x942.jpg" alt="galoshes &amp; tulips 2" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/img_6176/" rel="attachment wp-att-4137"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4137" title="galoshes &amp; tulips 3" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6176-628x942.jpg" alt="galoshes &amp; tulips 3" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/img_6185/" rel="attachment wp-att-4138"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4138" title="galoshes &amp; tulips 4" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6185-628x942.jpg" alt="galoshes &amp; tulips 4" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/13/april-showers/img_6171/" rel="attachment wp-att-4139"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4139" title="galoshes &amp; tulips 5" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6171-628x418.jpg" alt="galoshes &amp; tulips 5" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>*********************************</p>
<p>Linking to:</p>
<p><a href="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/thrifty-treasures-begins-for-2012/">Southern Hospitality Thrifty Treasures </a></p>
<p><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/04/15/diy-project-parade-42/">DIY Show Off Project Parade </a></p>
<p><a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2012/04/beautiful-front-porch-renovation.html">Between Naps on the Porch Metamorphosis Monday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/2012/04/tutorials-tips-link-party-2.html">Home Stories A 2 Z Tutorials &amp; Tips Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/04/16/tuesdays-treasures-51/">My Uncommon Life of Suburbia Tuesdays Treasures</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/homemade-projects-417/">Tip Junkie Tip Me Tuesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://todayscreativeblog.net/crafts-blog/">Today&#8217;s Creative Blog Get Your Craft On </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/2012/04/uncommonly-yours-link-party-24.html">Uncommonly Yours Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://ivyandelephants.blogspot.com/2012/04/ive-got-blues.html">Ivy and Elephants What&#8217;s it Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://savvysouthernstyle.blogspot.com/2012/04/wow-us-wednesdays-62.html">Savvy Southern Style Wow Us Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.creationsbykara.com/2012/04/look-what-i-made-link-party-4-18-12.html">Creations by Kara Look What I Made Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/2012/04/transformation-thursday-no-148.html#more">The Shabby Creek Cottage Transformation Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/04/time-travel-thursday-93-talented-time.html">The Brambleberry Cottage Time Travel Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://romantichome.blogspot.com/2012/04/show-and-tell-friday_19.html">My Romantic Home Show and Tell Friday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/04/feathered-nest-friday_19.html">French Country Cottage Feathered Nest Friday</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>24</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>A Spring Welcome</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:54:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4082</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Far there in the inland valleys  Frost tells her tales  The tulip shakes their heads  While camellia whispers  Her the age old tales  Of love and languishment… We have a Camellia bush that is covered in blooms. In keeping with my theme of thrifty decorating by using what I have, re-purposing or purchasing needed materials [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Far there in the inland valleys </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Frost tells her tales </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>The tulip shakes their heads </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>While camellia whispers </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Her the age old tales </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Of love and languishment…</em></p>
<p>We have a Camellia bush that is covered in blooms.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6046/" rel="attachment wp-att-4083"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4083" title="camilla bush" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6046-628x828.jpg" alt="camilla bush" width="628" height="828" /></a></p>
<p>In keeping with my theme of thrifty decorating by using what I have, re-purposing or purchasing needed materials at thrift and dollar stores, I decided to create a wreath. I purchased a base at The Dollar Tree Store.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6047/" rel="attachment wp-att-4084"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4084" title="wreath base" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6047-628x636.jpg" alt="wreath base" width="628" height="636" /></a></p>
<p>After snipping some blooms and letting them soak in sink full of water, I gently threaded the stems through the twig wreath and weaved them into the base.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6050/" rel="attachment wp-att-4085"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4085" title="weaving camillas" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6050-628x853.jpg" alt="weaving camillas" width="628" height="853" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6051/" rel="attachment wp-att-4086"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4086" title="wreath on door" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6051-458x1024.jpg" alt="wreath on door" width="458" height="1024" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6053/" rel="attachment wp-att-4087"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4087" title="camilla wreath close" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6053-628x942.jpg" alt="camilla wreath close" width="628" height="942" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/04/03/a-spring-welcome/img_6056/" rel="attachment wp-att-4088"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4088" title="camilla wreath" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6056-628x727.jpg" alt="camilla wreath" width="628" height="727" /></a></p>
<p>To sustain your wreath, soak it in water every other day.</p>
<p>Different flowers can be substituted for this project. I&#8217;ve also made wreaths using <a title="Circle of Life" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2010/10/09/circle-of-life/">Hydrangeas</a> and <a title="Ring of Blooms" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2011/10/20/ring-of-blooms/">Dahlias</a>.</p>
<p>***********************</p>
<p>Linking to:</p>
<p><a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2012/04/decorate-your-door-for-easter-welcome.html">Between Naps on the Porch Metamorphosis Monday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/2012/04/tutorials-tips-link-party-54.html">Home Stories A 2 Z Tutorials &amp; Tips Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/04/01/diy-project-parade-and-wallpaper-for-windows-giveaway/">DIY Showoff Project Parade</a></p>
<p><a href="http://myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/04/03/4113/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia Tuesday&#8217;s Treasures</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/homemade-projects-43/">Tip Junkie Tip Me Tuesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://todayscreativeblog.net/creative-projects/">Today&#8217;s Creative Blog Get Your Craft On </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/2012/04/uncommonly-yours-link-party-22.html">Uncommonly Yours Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://ivyandelephants.blogspot.com/2012/04/hot-stuff.html">Ivy and Elephants What&#8217;s it Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://savvysouthernstyle.blogspot.com/2012/04/wow-us-wednesdays-60.html">Savvy Southern Style Wow Us Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.creationsbykara.com/2012/04/look-what-i-made-linky-party-4-4-2012.html">Creations by Kara Look What I Made Linky Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.320sycamoreblog.com/2012/04/under-10-under-1-hour-party-spring.html">320 Sycamore Under $10 Under 1 Hour Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://romantichome.blogspot.com/2012/04/show-and-tell-friday.html">My Romantic Home Show and Tell Friday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/04/feathered-nest-friday.html">French Country Cottage Feathered Nest Friday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2012/04/weekend-wrap-up-party-and-100-awesome-crafty-prize-pack.html">Tatertots and Jello Weekend Wrap Up Party</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>16</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Eggstravaganza</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2012 02:36:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=4012</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Each season has its own wonder, it&#8217;s own special place, and purpose in the pattern of creation. ~ Unknown When I saw these exquisite eggs in the April 2012 edition of Country Living magazine I knew I would be making them. You only need three items to create these beauties: free images from the Graphics Fairy or Vintage Moth, tattoo [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Each season has its own wonder, it&#8217;s own special place, and purpose in the pattern of creation. ~ Unknown</em></p>
<p>When I saw these exquisite eggs in the April 2012 edition of Country Living magazine I knew I would be making them.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6036a/" rel="attachment wp-att-4031"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4031" title="eggs in basket" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_6036a-628x492.jpg" alt="eggs in basket" width="628" height="492" /></a></p>
<p>You only need three items to create these beauties: free images from the <a href="http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com">Graphics Fairy</a> or <a href="http://thevintagemoth.blogspot.com">Vintage Moth</a>, tattoo paper, and blown out eggs or faux eggs.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6019/" rel="attachment wp-att-4018"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4018" title="supplies" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6019-628x636.jpg" alt="supplies" width="628" height="636" /></a></p>
<p>Resize the images you want to use so they will fit on an egg and arrange them so they will print on a single sheet of letter sized paper, with whatever software you are comfortable using. I used iphoto.</p>
<p>Print the images on paper first to make sure you are happy with the result.</p>
<p>Once you are satisfied with the images, print them on the tattoo paper.</p>
<p>Cut each image out and adhere it the eggs, following the instructions that came with the tattoo paper.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6021/" rel="attachment wp-att-4021"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4021" title="tattoo cutouts" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6021-628x417.jpg" alt="tattoo cutouts" width="628" height="417" /></a></p>
<p>The hardest part of this project is deciding which images you will use!</p>
<p>Temporary tattoo paper is expensive. I paid $9.99 for one sheet at Michael&#8217;s. The next time I need it, I will order from <a href="http://www.decalpaper.com/category-s/8.htm">decalpaper.com</a>  ($19.95 for five 8 1/2&#8243;W x 11&#8243;L sheets)</p>
<p>Since the Siamese sisters are always looking to make things go bump and smash in the night, I opted to use faux eggs instead of hand blown ones. These were also purchased at Micheal&#8217;s for $4.99 (the eggs, not the cats).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6023/" rel="attachment wp-att-4022"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4022" title="egg display" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6023-628x691.jpg" alt="egg display" width="628" height="691" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6036/" rel="attachment wp-att-4023"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4023" title="eggs nest &amp; holder" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6036-628x418.jpg" alt="eggs nest &amp; holder" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6044/" rel="attachment wp-att-4026"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4026" title="eggs &amp; candlesticks" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6044-628x950.jpg" alt="eggs &amp; candlesticks" width="628" height="950" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6029/" rel="attachment wp-att-4027"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4027" title="owl egg" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6029-628x942.jpg" alt="owl egg" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/25/eggstravaganza/img_6035/" rel="attachment wp-att-4028"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4028" title="eggs in nest close" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6035-628x775.jpg" alt="eggs in nest close" width="628" height="775" /></a></p>
<p>Do you decorate to celebrate Spring&#8217;s arrival and Easter?</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;-</p>
<p>Linking to <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2012/03/clay-petal-vase-spring-craft-link-party/">The Centsational Girl Spring Fling Craft Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2012/03/25/diy-project-parade-peacock-feather-triptych-canvases/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FpuSM+%28The+DIY+Show+Off%29">DIY Showoff Project Parade </a></p>
<p><a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2012/03/beautiful-curbside-transformations-on.html">Between Naps on the Porch Metamorphosis Monday </a></p>
<p><a href="http://http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/2012/03/tutorials-tips-party-photobook-giveaway-50-value.html">Home Stories A2Z Tutorials &amp; Tips Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/03/tuesdays-treasures_26.html">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia Tuesday&#8217;s Treasures</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/homemade-projects-327/">Tip Junkie Tip Me Tuesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/gotoIndexWithMessage.php?id=6&amp;page=http://todayscreativeblog.net/how-to-craft/">Today&#8217;s Creative Blog Get Your Craft On </a></p>
<p><a href="http://knickoftimeinteriors.blogspot.com/2012/03/knick-of-time-tuesday-27-vintage-style.html">Knick of Time Tuesday </a></p>
<p><a href="http://somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/2012/03/whatever-goes-wednesday-110.html">Someday Crafts Whatever Goes Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/2012/03/uncommonly-yours-link-party-21.html">Uncommonly Yours Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.creationsbykara.com/2012/03/look-what-i-made-linky-party-2-28-2012.html">Look What I Made Linky Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://ivyandelephants.blogspot.com/2012/03/picture-perfect.html">Ivy and Elephants What&#8217;s it Wednesday </a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>17</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>A Gardener&#8217;s Mantel</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2012 02:22:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=3913</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;The day the Lord created hope was probably the same day He created spring.&#8221; ~ Bern Williams  Spring has officially sprung today. I think Punxsutawney Phil, the ground hog who emerged from his hole on February 2nd and spied his shadow (predicting six more weeks of winter), needs glasses. Today also marks the first event [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>&#8220;The day the Lord created hope was probably the same day He created spring.&#8221;<br />
~ Bern Williams </em></p>
<p>Spring has officially sprung today. I think Punxsutawney Phil, the ground hog who emerged from his hole on February 2nd and spied his shadow (predicting six more weeks of winter), needs glasses.</p>
<p>Today also marks the first event of the spring fling party. <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/spring-decorating-link-party/">Layla is kicking off the event</a> with a spring mantel party.</p>
<p>As I was considering how to decorate the mantel, I thought about spring and what it means to me. People can experience spring everyday. We have the opportunity to grow and bloom, to transform daily. With each new day, with every experience, we are reborn.</p>
<p>Our limitations are usually self-imposed—worry, self doubt, anxiety, and negativity.  When I plant my gardens and tend to them, I have no doubt they will grow and the buds will bloom. I have faith and know that God is providing everything my garden needs: rich soil, sunshine and rain. Yet, how quickly we forget that He provides for us as well and wants us to grow into our purpose and our full potential, to flourish.</p>
<p>With that in mind, I created a gardener&#8217;s mantel.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5989a/" rel="attachment wp-att-3931"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3931" title="Easter Mantel" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/img_5989a-628x991.jpg" alt="easter mantel" width="628" height="991" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5990/" rel="attachment wp-att-3932"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3932" title="mantel shelf" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5990-628x306.jpg" alt="mantel shelf" width="628" height="306" /></a></p>
<p>I filled an enamelware &#8220;Bulb &amp; Seeds&#8221; bin with pink English Daisies and Rockfoil. Both are perennials and will be transplanted outdoors in a few weeks.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5993/" rel="attachment wp-att-3933"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3933" title="bulbs and seeds" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5993-628x418.jpg" alt="bulbs and seeds" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>The rock sculpture of the bird is the topper to the fountain located in my garden. The tiny framed rabbit picture is usually on my bedside table and the first thing I read each day. I included a variety of clay pots from my potting shed. One houses a bird&#8217;s nest, another Muscari (or Grape Hyacinths).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5991/" rel="attachment wp-att-3934"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3934" title="bird nest" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5991-628x418.jpg" alt="bird nest" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>The hearth is decorated with vintage galvanized watering cans, vintage galvanized flower buckets with cherry and apple blossoms from the yard, and more stacked clay pots.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5998-3/" rel="attachment wp-att-3937"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3937" title="Easter hearth" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_59982-628x839.jpg" alt="easter hearth" width="628" height="839" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_6008/" rel="attachment wp-att-3938"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3938" title="clay pots" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6008-628x418.jpg" alt="clay pots" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_6013/" rel="attachment wp-att-3941"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3941" title="clay pots close" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6013-628x942.jpg" alt="clay pots close" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_6011/" rel="attachment wp-att-3944"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3944" title="tin flower pots" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6011-628x942.jpg" alt="tin flower pots" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The rickety old chair holds an antique gathering basket with Daffodils and Camilla from the yard.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5997/" rel="attachment wp-att-3947"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3947" title="flower chair" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5997-628x942.jpg" alt="flower chair" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5989/" rel="attachment wp-att-3948"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3948" title="basket chair" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5989-628x810.jpg" alt="basket chair" width="628" height="810" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_6015/" rel="attachment wp-att-3949"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3949" title="bird house" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_6015-628x942.jpg" alt="bird house" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5996/" rel="attachment wp-att-3954"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3954" title="spring quote" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5996-628x418.jpg" alt="spring quote" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>I&#8217;ll be back on Thursday to share a spring craft with you. &#8216;Til then&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/03/20/a-gardeners-mantel/img_5381/" rel="attachment wp-att-3957"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3957" title="rabbit" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_5381-628x418.jpg" alt="rabbit" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>&#8230;and each other.</p>
<p>*********************************</p>
<p>Linking to:</p>
<p><a href="http://http://savvysouthernstyle.blogspot.com/2012/03/wow-us-wednesdays-58.html">Savvy Southern Style Wow Us Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/03/tuesdays-treasures_19.html">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia Tuesday&#8217;s Treasures</a></p>
<p><a href="http://micheleravendesigns.blogspot.com/2012/03/primp-your-stuff-wednesday-linky-party_21.html">{Primp} Primp Your Stuff Wednesday Linky Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/2012/03/industrial-drawer-upcycled.html">Shabby Creek Cottage Transformation Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.thevintagefarmhouse.com/2012/03/creative-things-thursday-and-features_22.html">The Vintage Farmhouse Creative Things Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/03/time-travel-thursday-89-talented-time.html">Brambleberry Cottage Time Travel Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://ivyandelephants.blogspot.com/2012/03/darn-it.html">Ivy &amp; Elephants What&#8217;s it Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://akadesign.ca/?p=7795#comments">{aka} Design DIY Link Party </a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>23</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Necessary Room</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:02:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=3662</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful&#8221; ~ William Morris If you haven&#8217;t been reading our blog since day one, you probably don&#8217;t know we have been working on renovating a master bathroom for quite some time. Remember this post? Followed by this? I know [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>&#8220;Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful&#8221; ~ William Morris</em></p>
<p>If you haven&#8217;t been reading our blog since day one, you probably don&#8217;t know we have been working on renovating a master bathroom for quite some time.</p>
<p>Remember <a title="Naked and Freezing" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2009/11/23/naked-and-freezing/">this post?</a> Followed <a title="A Peek at Progress" href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2009/12/02/a-peek-at-progress/">by this</a>?</p>
<p>I know it&#8217;s only been three years but we thought you would finally like to see the &#8220;finished&#8221; room (as finished as it is going to be &#8220;for now&#8221;). Truth be told, we were finished over a year and a half ago but our internet connection is so bad it&#8217;s taken this long to post the results (that&#8217;s my story and I&#8217;m sticking to it).</p>
<p>The room was originally a bedroom but was converted to a full bath before we moved in. Below is how it appeared. The room is approximately 11&#215;14.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/100_0864/" rel="attachment wp-att-3666"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3666" title="dual sinks" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/100_0864-628x453.jpg" alt="dual sinks" width="628" height="453" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/100_0863/" rel="attachment wp-att-3665"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3665" title="dresser" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/100_0863-628x449.jpg" alt="dresser" width="628" height="449" /></a></p>
<p>We stripped the wall-paper and put up bead board (individual pieces, not paneling) and painted the plaster walls above it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/stripping_aftermath/" rel="attachment wp-att-3671"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3671" title="stripping_aftermath" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/stripping_aftermath-628x418.jpg" alt="stripping_aftermath" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>Thomas had to demo the west wall to insulate it and then installed and mudded the drywall, then sanded and painted.</p>
<p>We used Sherwin-Williams Duration Extra White Semi-Gloss on the bead board and trim and Sherwin Williams Duration Home &#8220;Crystal Clear&#8221; Matte on the walls. (I should note here that this was the fourth pale sea blue/green that we finally settled on—yet another reason why projects take me so long to complete.)</p>
<p>Thomas built a shelf above the sinks. I decided to keep the original dark wood mirrors because they reminded me of the finish on one of the boats my father owned. I got the HIS and HER plaques at Pottery Barn. The altered vintage bottles are from <a href="http://barnhousemarket.mybisi.com/">The Barn House Market Place</a>. I included one of my my favorite quotes here so we could see it each morning as we prepare for the day. We also added extendable wall mount mirrors to each side (available from Ikea).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5668/" rel="attachment wp-att-3680"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3680" title="sinks_shelf" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5668-628x418.jpg" alt="sinks_shelf" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5640/" rel="attachment wp-att-3677"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3677" title="altered vintage bottles" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5640-628x409.jpg" alt="altered vintage bottles" width="628" height="409" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5742/" rel="attachment wp-att-3681"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3681" title="shell &amp; quote" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5742-628x397.jpg" alt="shell &amp; quote" width="628" height="397" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5677/" rel="attachment wp-att-3688"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3688" title="round mirror" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5677-628x418.jpg" alt="round mirror" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>My vintage ceramic hand and Victorian Shell Box hold my jewelry while I shower. I also have an antique silver powder shaker on the shelf.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5635/" rel="attachment wp-att-3675"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3675" title="hers" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5635-628x951.jpg" alt="hers" width="628" height="951" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5637/" rel="attachment wp-att-3676"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3676" title="hers_powder shaker" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5637-628x942.jpg" alt="hers_powder shaker" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>Thomas&#8217; end of the shelf has his shaving supplies; antique silver shaving mug, shaving brush and straight razor. Also a vintage barber shaker from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/fadedplains?ref=ss_profile">Faded Plains</a>. His shaving strop has a permanent spot to hang.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5641/" rel="attachment wp-att-3678"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3678" title="his" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5641-628x942.jpg" alt="his" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5644/" rel="attachment wp-att-3679"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3679" title="his_mirror" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5644-628x942.jpg" alt="his_mirror" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The lights over the sink are from Pottery Barn. The overhead light is from Ikea. The Ikea fixture comes in a silver finish, but we preferred black so we spray painted before hanging.  All the light fixtures are filled with &#8220;Edison&#8221; style carbon filament bulbs for an old-fashioned touch.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5682/" rel="attachment wp-att-3787"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3787" title="light fixture" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5682-628x942.jpg" alt="light fixture" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5679-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-3786"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3786" title="pendant light" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_56791-628x942.jpg" alt="pendant light" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>Above the commode is a vintage man&#8217;s wool bathing suit, circa early 1900s. I also included an antique bathing suit rental/dressing room admission ticket.</p>
<p>To the left, on the north wall, there is a wooden cubby I purchased from Pottery Barn. I have filled it with antique postcards, trinkets and shells. Under the cubby, I hung a framed antique print of bathing beauties.</p>
<p>I hooked a vintage basket to the wall and use it to hold bath tissue.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/suit_and_cubby/" rel="attachment wp-att-3708"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3708" title="suit_and_cubby" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/suit_and_cubby-628x942.jpg" alt="suit_and_cubby" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5685/" rel="attachment wp-att-3704"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3704" title="bathing_dressing room ticket" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5685-628x378.jpg" alt="bathing_dressing room ticket" width="628" height="378" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/cubby_and_beauties/" rel="attachment wp-att-3711"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3711" title="cubby_and_beauties" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/cubby_and_beauties-628x942.jpg" alt="cubby_and_beauties" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>We decided to use vintage glass door knobs to hold the curtains back and allow natural light into the room.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/tie_back/" rel="attachment wp-att-3716"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3716" title="tie_back" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/tie_back-628x942.jpg" alt="tie_back" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The antique armoire holds my lotions, potions and other toiletries as well as extra towels. Included are bath specialties from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/VictoriasWhimsy">Victoria&#8217;s Whimsy</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5708/" rel="attachment wp-att-3724"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3724" title="armoire" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5708-628x942.jpg" alt="armoire" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5657/" rel="attachment wp-att-3792"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3792" title="sailor knot" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5657-628x942.jpg" alt="sailor knot" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5660/" rel="attachment wp-att-3723"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3723" title="armoire open" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5660-628x942.jpg" alt="armoire open" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/potions/" rel="attachment wp-att-3726"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3726" title="potions" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/potions-628x418.jpg" alt="potions" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>I got the <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/shellboxes-2/">beautiful shell box</a> from Layla&#8217;s (of <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/">The Lettered Cottage</a>) mother, Jude. The drift wood boat came from the <a href="http://www.whiteflowerfarmhouse.com/">White Flower Farmhouse</a>. I painted the Seashell sign and found the old oar while thrifting. I considered painting it, but like its scars and the way the color reflects that of the original pine floor.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/shells_and_sailboat/" rel="attachment wp-att-3729"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3729" title="shells_and_sailboat" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/shells_and_sailboat-628x942.jpg" alt="shells_and_sailboat" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>Thomas created the chest for me. It affords me extra storage as well as a place to sit, dry off and moisturize. He will be sharing a tutorial in an upcoming post.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5697/" rel="attachment wp-att-3736"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3736" title="storage chest" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5697-628x418.jpg" alt="storage chest" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>We discovered the ladder in an outbuilding on the property when we moved in. I use it as a towel rack. Since I don&#8217;t like storing things in the shower, I added numbered hooks purchased at Pottery Barn and hung burlap bags purchased from <a href="http://laurieannas.com/">LaurieAnna&#8217;s Vintage Home</a>, thus creating a spot for shampoo, conditioner, wash clothes, hand towels and bath mats.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5736/" rel="attachment wp-att-3742"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3742" title="ladder" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5736-628x922.jpg" alt="ladder" width="628" height="922" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5741/" rel="attachment wp-att-3743"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3743" title="burlap bucket" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5741-628x942.jpg" alt="burlap bucket" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The beautiful shower curtain was custom made for me by Mary, Kim&#8217;s (of <a href="http://www.twiceremembered.blogspot.com/">Twice Remembered Cottage</a>) mother. If you are interested in having something sewn, message <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TrunkandTrellis?ref=ss_profile">Mary via her Etsy shop, Trunk and Trellis</a>. The antique basket holds bath sheets and a bundle of lavender which fills the air with a wonderful fragrance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/shower_curtain/" rel="attachment wp-att-3810"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3810" title="shower_curtain" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/shower_curtain-628x942.jpg" alt="shower_curtain" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5692/" rel="attachment wp-att-3748"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3748" title="lavendar basket" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5692-628x942.jpg" alt="lavendar basket" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The sign was created by Kim of Twice Remembered Cottage and available at her Etsy shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shecouldfly?ref=em">She Could Fly</a>. It adds a touch of whimsy to the room. I painted the sandpiper and nesting gulls on pieces of drift wood I found beach combing and framed a feather I chased and caught along a beach.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5690/" rel="attachment wp-att-3668"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3668" title="mirror_curtain" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5690-628x894.jpg" alt="mirror_curtain" width="628" height="894" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5691/" rel="attachment wp-att-3752"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3752" title="bloomers" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5691-628x786.jpg" alt="bloomers" width="628" height="786" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5717/" rel="attachment wp-att-3755"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3755" title="feather painting" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5717-628x489.jpg" alt="feather painting" width="628" height="489" /></a></p>
<p>The full mirror was purchased at Ikea.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5666/" rel="attachment wp-att-3758"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3758" title="full mirror" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5666-628x942.jpg" alt="full mirror" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>When you live by the sea you always have a beach bag prepared. Thomas added an applique (ornamental molding) to the door.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/beach_bag/" rel="attachment wp-att-3764"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3764" title="beach_bag" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/beach_bag-628x942.jpg" alt="beach_bag" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5664/" rel="attachment wp-att-3763"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3763" title="door and keys" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5664-628x413.jpg" alt="door and keys" width="628" height="413" /></a></p>
<p>I found the antique library table while thrifting and painted it white. I decided to use it in this room because the brace reminds me of ocean waves. The silver tray holds antique engraved vanity jars, a framed vintage photograph, a large shell filled with rose petal soaps, a vintage guest towel and treasures from the sea.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/library_table/" rel="attachment wp-att-3807"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3807" title="library_table" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/library_table-628x434.jpg" alt="library_table" width="628" height="434" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/library_table_legs/" rel="attachment wp-att-3769"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3769" title="library_table_legs" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/library_table_legs-628x418.jpg" alt="library_table_legs" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5718/" rel="attachment wp-att-3772"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3772" title="silver tray" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5718-628x418.jpg" alt="silver tray" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5719/" rel="attachment wp-att-3773"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3773" title="photo and vanity jars" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5719-628x418.jpg" alt="photo and vanity jars" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5720/" rel="attachment wp-att-3774"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3774" title="shell and rosebud soap" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5720-628x418.jpg" alt="shell and rosebud soap" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>The antique french canning jar from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lauraingallsgunn?ref=em">Decor to Adore</a> holds fresh daisies.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5648/" rel="attachment wp-att-3777"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3777" title="canning jar and flowers" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5648-628x942.jpg" alt="canning jar and flowers" width="628" height="941" /></a></p>
<p>The vintage wooden life guard first aid chest is our medicine cabinet.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5695/" rel="attachment wp-att-3780"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3780" title="lifeguard first aid box" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5695-628x418.jpg" alt="lifeguard first aid box" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>The rug is from Dash and Albert.</p>
<p>So, was it worth the wait?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/02/13/the-necessary-room/img_5634/" rel="attachment wp-att-3667"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3667" title="renovated" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_5634-628x418.jpg" alt="renovated" width="628" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;</p>
<p>Linking to:</p>
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<p><a href="http://http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2012/02/tuesdays-treasures_14.html">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia Tuesday&#8217;s Treasures</a></p>
<p><a href="http://todayscreativeblog.net/craft-apps/#more-9067">Today&#8217;s Creative Blog Get Your Craft On</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/homemade-projects-214/">Tip Junkie Tip Me Tuesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://everything-underthemoon.blogspot.com/2012/02/bedazzle-me-monday-20.html">Everything Under the Moon Bedazzle Me Monday</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/white-wednesday-139.html">Faded Charm White Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/2012/02/annie-sloan-project-pretty-little.html">The Shabby Creek Cottage Transformation Thursday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.thevintagefarmhouse.com/2012/02/its-that-time-of-week-again.html">The Vintage Farmhouse Creative Things Thursday</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/feathered-nest-friday_16.html">French Country Cottage Feathered Nest Friday</a></p>
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<p><a href="http://houseinroses.blogspot.com/2012/02/show-off-your-cottage-monday_19.html">The House in the Roses Show Off Your Cottage Monday </a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.askannamoseley.com/search/label/Weekend%20Warrior%20Link%20Party">Ask Anna Weekend Warrior Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/2012/02/whats-in-gunny-sack-link-party-26.html">What&#8217;s in the Gunny Sack Link Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://knickoftimeinteriors.blogspot.com/2012/02/knick-of-time-tuesday-23-vintage-style.html">Knick of Time Tuesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://micheleravendesigns.blogspot.com/2012/02/primp-your-stuff-wednesday-linky-party_28.html">{Primp} Primp Your Stuff Wednesday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://cozyhomescenes.blogspot.com/2012/02/shamrock-wreath-for-st-patricks-day.html">Cozy Home Scenes </a></p>
<p><a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/03/march-before-and-after-party.html">Thrifty Decor Chick Before and After Party</a></p>
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		<title>Sweet Treat</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:02:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Emily</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=3584</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Think what a better world it would be if we all, the whole world, had cookies and milk about three o&#8217;clock every afternoon and then lay down on our blankets for a nap. ~ Barbara Jordan We will be featuring regular posts from two beautiful, intelligent, creative young women. Even though I am partial to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Think what a better world it would be if we all, the whole world, had cookies and milk about three o&#8217;clock every afternoon and then lay down on our blankets for a nap. ~ Barbara Jordan</em></p>
<p><em>We will be featuring regular posts from two beautiful, intelligent, creative young women. Even though I am partial to them because they are my daughters doesn&#8217;t mean it&#8217;s not true! The first is here today. Please show some blog love to Miss Emily.</em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/emilycia/" rel="attachment wp-att-3626"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-3626" title="EMILYCIA" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/EMILYCIA-244x300.jpg" alt="" width="244" height="300" /></a>This past fall, I started my very first year at the best culinary school in the United States. The <a href="http://www.ciachef.edu/newyork/">Culinary Institute of America</a>, located in the scenic Hudson Valley is where I now call home.  I am currently enrolled in the CIA&#8217;s Baking and Pastry Arts Bachelor program.  Since my classes consist of baking up delicious treats for all to enjoy, I decided to share some of the recipes with you.</p>
<p>The recipes I will be sharing are easy to do and require only simple ingredients and a scale. Many may ask, “Why a scale?”  I will tell you: at the CIA all of our recipes are weighed out instead of being measured.  The difference between the two is accuracy, which is very important when baking any product. Your products will come out the same every single time if everything is scaled correctly.  One thing I was not aware of before starting at the CIA is that there are no uniform standards for measuring spoons. You can buy a set of measuring spoons from Bed Bath and Beyond and another from Home Goods, and the sizes may be completely different.  This is just one example of why it is better for bakers to scale ingredients rather than measure.</p>
<p>With Valentine&#8217;s Day arriving in a few weeks, what better treat to share than sugar cookies? One of my personal favorites, they can be cut out in many different shapes and are very simple to make.</p>
<p>Here are the Ingredients you will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>Butter 9 oz</li>
<li>Sugar 12 oz</li>
<li>Eggs 2 oz</li>
<li>Honey ½ oz</li>
<li>Flour, Cake 10 oz</li>
<li>Flour, Bread 5 oz</li>
<li>Salt 3.5 gram</li>
<li>Baking Soda 2 gram</li>
<li>Vanilla 3 gram</li>
</ul>
<p>The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees.</p>
<p>If you are new to scaling, it may be best to scale ingredients separately in labeled containers to ensure no mistakes are made.</p>
<p>Make sure the butter is cubed and COLD.</p>
<p>If you do not have access to cake and bread flour, All Purpose flour may be used.  If using All Purpose Flour, the weight will be 15 oz of AP flour.</p>
<p>(Fun fact:  AP flour is a combination of both cake and bread flour)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/measures/" rel="attachment wp-att-3589"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3589" title="ingredients" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/measures-628x471.jpg" alt="ingredients" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Always remember that in baking, sugar is considered a “wet ingredient” and should never be combined with “dry ingredients”</p>
<p>In a stationary mixer using the paddle attachment, add cubed butter and sugar to the bowl. Cream together on low speed until homogenous.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3590" title="cream butter and sugar" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dough-in-mixer-628x471.jpg" alt="cream butter and sugar" width="628" height="471" /></p>
<p>Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl from time to time to make sure all parts are incorporated. When the butter and sugar are creamed, the mixture should look like the image below.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/sugar-and-butter/" rel="attachment wp-att-3591"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3591" title="sugar and butter" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/sugar-and-butter-628x471.jpg" alt="sugar and butter" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Next, add your eggs in 3 to four increments, mixing after each part is added on low speed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/adding-eggs-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-3615"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3615" title="adding eggs" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/adding-eggs1-628x471.jpg" alt="adding eggs" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>After all eggs are incorporated, mixture should look like this:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/after-eggs-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-3616"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3616" title="after eggs" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/after-eggs1-628x471.jpg" alt="after eggs" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>The next step is to combine your dry ingredients and sift them.</p>
<p>(cake flour, bread flour, salt, and baking soda)</p>
<p>After remaining dry ingredients are sifted, add to the mixture all at once.</p>
<p>Be careful when you begin mixing again.  In the bakeshop, we “pulse” the mixer, turning it on and off quickly to make sure we don&#8217;t get a face full of flour!</p>
<p>When flour begins to incorporate, leave the mixer on low speed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/adding-flour/" rel="attachment wp-att-3598"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3598" title="adding flour" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/adding-flour-628x471.jpg" alt="adding flour" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>You should begin to see a dough forming</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/dough-forming-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-3619"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3619" title="dough forming" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dough-forming1-628x471.jpg" alt="dough forming" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Lastly, add in vanilla and honey.</p>
<p>If adding food coloring, add only one to two drops at a time.</p>
<p>When finished, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10 minutes.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/dough-on-plastic/" rel="attachment wp-att-3600"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3600" title="dough on plastic wrap" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/dough-on-plastic-628x471.jpg" alt="dough on plastic wrap" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>I like to shape my dough into a square for easier rolling later.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/wrapped-dough/" rel="attachment wp-att-3603"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3603" title="wrapped dough" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/wrapped-dough-628x471.jpg" alt="wrapped dough" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>After dough is refrigerated, unwrap and place on a FLOUR DUSTED SURFACE.  The flour dusting will ensure the dough does not stick.</p>
<p>*Before rolling the dough, beat it with your rolling pin.  Yes, I mean hit your dough over and over with your pin; this will help prevent your dough from cracking when rolling it out.</p>
<p>Feel free to keep throwing flour ON TOP and UNDER your dough throughout the rolling process so it does not stick to your surface and rolling pin.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/floured-dough/" rel="attachment wp-att-3604"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3604" title="floured dough" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/floured-dough-628x471.jpg" alt="" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>I like to break off pieces one at a time to roll out.  I roll my dough ¼ of an inch thick, then cut with a cookie cutter.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/cutting-cookies/" rel="attachment wp-att-3607"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3607" title="cutting cookies" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/cutting-cookies-628x470.jpg" alt="cutting cookies" width="628" height="470" /></a></p>
<p>I line my sheet pan with parchment paper and then line the cut out cookies up 4 by 6.</p>
<p>One last touch I like to do with my cookies before baking them, is to brush them (just enough to moisten)  with a small amount of milk and sprinkle sanding sugar on them.</p>
<p>Bake the cookies at 350 degrees.</p>
<p>At the CIA, we are never given a time for any of our products.  Our chefs want us to get used to always watching what we are baking.</p>
<p>Since these cookies are very thin, they only need to bake for 10 minutes or less. Please keep an eye on them, they are very easy to burn!</p>
<p>When finished, the cookies should be very light in color with only a little brown on the bottom and sides.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/24/sweet-treat/cookies-on-baking-sheet/" rel="attachment wp-att-3608"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3608" title="cookies on baking sheet" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/cookies-on-baking-sheet-628x471.jpg" alt="cookies on baking sheet" width="628" height="471" /></a></p>
<p>Let cool, and enjoy!</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/2012/01/tutorials-tips-link-party-44.html">Home Stories A 2 Z Tutorials &amp; Tips</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Soaring Spirit</title>
		<link>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/</link>
		<comments>http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jan 2012 20:48:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Deborah</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/?p=3543</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.&#8221; ~ George Washington Carver Most readers of The Lettered Cottage are looking at photographs of  DIY projects, renovations and house tours. I remember the first words of Layla&#8217;s that spoke to me: [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>&#8220;I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.&#8221; ~ George Washington Carver</em></p>
<p>Most readers of <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/">The Lettered Cottage</a> are looking at photographs of  DIY projects, renovations and house tours. I remember the first words of <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/the-big-3-4/">Layla&#8217;s</a> that spoke to me: &#8220;I was walking home that day, by myself for some reason, and I just stopped. Right in the middle of the road. I stretched out my arms and took it all in. The blue sky above me, the grassy ground in front of me, the corn fields on either side of me, and the S P A C E all around me. I told myself (out loud) to, “Always remember this moment. When you’re older, remember this moment.” I stood there for a few minutes, just soaking it up. I’ll never forget it.&#8221;</p>
<p>In that instant I knew she &#8216;got it&#8217; and considered her a friend.</p>
<p>On my return to The Land of Blog, I told you I walk and run daily on the dirt roads that act as a perimeter of the property surrounding the Fairfield House.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_5561/" rel="attachment wp-att-3556"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3556" title="perimeter" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5561-628x391.jpg" alt="perimeter" width="628" height="391" /></a></p>
<p>My rounds have been a source of solace. In the very least, I&#8217;ve logged in 2 miles a day, that&#8217;s 730 miles in 2011. The journey sometimes consists of biting winds pushing me and the remains of the previous season around desolate fields into oblivion. In the warmer seasons, biting &#8216;green heads&#8217; (aka pine flies, horse flies) and saber toothed mosquitoes chase me the entire way. All days, I&#8217;ve discovered everything created with love inspires. It is on these pilgrimages that I give thanks, hear echoes of angels and listen for HIS whisper. I forget about me and am absorbed by the surroundings that confirm I am part of something so much larger than myself.  If anyone ever doubts the existence of God, get out of your neighborhood and into the raw authentic beauty nature offers us. Profound simplicity is a spiritual experience of accepting each moment with love, grace and gratitude. I know peace. I am aware I am on sacred ground and am filled with so much goodness there is no room left for the pain of days gone by or worry about things that may or may not happen.</p>
<p>Scout, our Rat Terrier, is my constant companion. When Thomas is home he joins us. I have gotten in the habit of taking my camera or binoculars, unless it&#8217;s raining.  It is easy to forget you are in the most densely populated state in the union. I am amazed at the amount of wildlife in our little nook of the universe &#8212; deer, raccoons, skunk, muskrats, turtles, snakes, fox, otter, ducks, snow geese, hawks, egrets, owls and other raptors.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_5338/" rel="attachment wp-att-3557"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3557" title="IMG_5338" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5338-628x857.jpg" alt="" width="628" height="857" /></a></p>
<p>It was on one such journey that I first spied the bald eagles. The magnificence stopped me in my tracks and took my breath away as tears filled my eyes.  I am blessed. I will never forget it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_5080/" rel="attachment wp-att-3560"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3560" title="bald eagles in tree" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5080-628x451.jpg" alt="bald eagles in tree" width="628" height="451" /></a></p>
<p>We have come to know each others habits by observation. We each belong and are not a threat to the other. Over the past year I&#8217;ve had the privilege of building a trust that affords me to get nearly as close to them as I do my hummingbirds. It&#8217;s been my best kept secret, shared only with a precious few.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_4594/" rel="attachment wp-att-3561"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3561" title="bald eagle in flight" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_4594-628x420.jpg" alt="bald eagle in flight" width="628" height="420" /></a></p>
<p>Last year there were 34 Bald Eagles nesting on the Cohansey River on January 11, and the Cumberland County Christmas Bird Count, held January 2, estimated there are at least 88 Bald Eagle in Cumberland County. Their numbers are growing. If you are interested in seeing them for yourself and are in the area join New Jersey Audubon, Citizens United, Cumberland County Planning Commission, and Natural Lands Trust’s other New Jersey partners to celebrate the raptors of South Jersey at the <a href="http://www.natlands.org/events/cumberland-county-winter-eagle-festival/">Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival</a>.</p>
<p>Words are not adequate enough to describe the exhilaration you feel when you see eagles soar. Your spirit soars with them.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/2012/01/21/soaring-spirit/img_4595/" rel="attachment wp-att-3564"><img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3564" title="bald eagle soaring" src="http://www.fairfieldhousenj.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_4595-628x461.jpg" alt="bald eagle soaring" width="628" height="461" /></a></p>
<p>I cannot help but consider the cars that travel up and down my road, passing by without noticing this gift. Are you aware of all your blessings?</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;-</p>
<p>Linking to:</p>
<p><a href="http://laurieannas.blogspot.com/2012/01/farmhouse-bedroom-revisited-farmhouse.html">Farmhouse Friday</a></p>
<p><a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2012/01/a-birthday-wish-wlww-link-up-party/">Linking to Women Living Well</a></p>
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