February 25, 2008

Make-My-Own-Monster Kit.

This is one of the absolute coolest things ever. No, seriously.

The experience begins when you receive the Make-My-Own-Monster Design Kit, that includes colored pencils, paper, and a detailed questionnaire. With this kit you create not only what the monster looks like, but you also create a story about the monster and describe his or her personality. Once you’ve completed the kit and sent it in, the designers at North American Bear Co. will faithfully reproduce your design as a plush monster, including a descriptive hang-tag that tells the story of your monster as you have described it and identifies you as the creator.

:: via BB-Blog

Posted In kids
2
February 21, 2008

Meyer Lemon Curd.

I have a slight obsession with curd. Even though it’s a repulsive word in and of itself, the stuff is delectable beyond words. I’ve never made an attempt at making it myself, but I’m thinking that day isn’t too far around the corner. I could seriously just eat it up with a spoon – it’s just that good! I’ve seen quite a few recipes floating around the web-o-sphere lately, but it wasn’t until I saw this one using Meyer lemons that I was really sold. Not only is it extremely simple, but it looks like the chef was about to eat a bowlful, which isn’t far from what I intend to do!

Posted In recipes
3
February 21, 2008

The Cost Vineyard.

Nestled comfortably in the Eola Hills, just west of Salem, Oregon, you will find The Cost Vineyard. A low-yield producer of premium quality, fully estate grown Pinot Noir.

While I don’t doubt the quality and taste of their wine, what I’m in love with are their bottles. Wine labels in general fascinate me, but when one goes against the norm – as in anything – it really grabs my attention. Cost Vineyard accomplishes this by using “newspaper clippings” that strategically place their name on the bottle in small type that you might otherwise miss. Point proven: bigger and bolder isn’t always better.

Posted In cocktails, packaging
6
February 21, 2008

Year of Seeds.

The Year of Seeds would make an amazing gift. Not only would it last year-round, but every time the recipient glanced at their windowsill wonderful thoughts of you would come to mind!

Simply place the included soil pellets and seeds into the pots, add water, and watch the flowers come to life—one month at a time. The monthly seeds include petunias, marigolds, pansies, lobelia, alyssum, zinnias, impatiens, baby’s breath, dianthus, cosmos, poppies and sweet peas. Each candy-colored earthenware pot features an etched illustration of the corresponding flower. So sweet!

Posted In grow it
2
February 20, 2008

On the Rocks: Death in the P.M.

Absinthe is something that I’ve always wanted to try – maybe something about it being illegal in the States until not long ago?? Apparently Ernest Hemingway was a big fan of the green libation and created the first version of Death in the P.M., named after his novel Death in the Afternoon. The ratio of alcohol here has been altered (E.H.’s was a bit much), but otherwise it’s an extremely easy cocktail to mix up and enjoy.

Ingredients:
– 1 part absinthe or other anise-flavored liqueur
– 10 parts chilled brut sparkling wine

Instructions:
Pour absinthe in a chilled champagne glass. Top with sparkling wine and serve.

:: cocktail and image via CHOW

Posted In cocktails
3
February 19, 2008

Miso Soup with Sweet Potato Dumplings.

A few weeks ago I came across this recipe for Miso Soup with Sweet Potato Dumplings. It looks hearty and yummy and I’m a huge fan of miso, so it has all the factors I require to attempt a new dish. Besides, my stomach is feeling like yuck today and this looks like it could be a big help in that department. If my soup ends up looking anything remotely like the photo above, then I’ll be in good shape!

** I’m making an attempt at posting more savory meals instead of my usual dessert fare – I promise. It’s just that the desserts are always so visually appealing that it’s hard to say no!

Posted In recipes
3
February 19, 2008

Pick Up Mug and Tray Set.

I love the how the Pick Up mug and tray set is so closely related to those wine glass holder/appetizer plates that were so popular awhile back. This is a piece that would come in handy and be used so much more often in my opinion! Just use the cup for your beverage (hot or cold) and the plate for toast, sandwich, etc. Love it! The set is currently available in two patterns: yellow floral and green abstract, while the mug is available in glossy white and matte black. Mix and match as you wish.

Posted In grand design, kitchen
0
February 19, 2008

Handmade Wilderness-The Paper Deer Head Project.

As a reformed vegetarian I’m definitely not one for taxidermy or animal heads on the wall, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw The Paper Deer Head Project on Design Milk and absolutely loved it. And then when I read the artist’s explanation I was sucked in even further…

Because we’re all hunting for something.
We’re all collecting our own modern trophies.

The heads are made out of resin and paper and measure 18 x 18 x 14″. If you’re interested in snagging one for yourself, better hurry – when I visited last there was only one left!

Posted In house and home, walls
0