Inspiration

Favourite Cookbooks

Just thought I’d share with you some of my favourite cookbooks.  I have really enjoyed cooking from all of these books.  Recipes turn out delicious!

I love collecting cookbooks.  I actually read them like a book, appreciating the wit and wisdom of these experts.

It’s so easy to get caught up in cooking the usual meals day after day. I try my best to cook something new each week.  My husband and I spend our Saturday evenings cooking a new meal together.  I love this time spent with him.

One of my favourite things to do is look over the new grocery flyers, see what’s on sale and find a recipe in one of my well loved books.  Being a frugal shopper does not mean you have to eat boring meals.  I’m proudly a frugal shopper, and I love turning a deal into a scrumptiously delicious meals.  All thanks to my cookbooks and my passion for cooking.  And of course a gorgeous apron!

What are your favourite cookbooks?  I would love to know.  I’m always open to expanding my library.

 

 

 

Flowers for your Valentine

Who doesn’t love fresh flowers given to them on Valentine’s Day?  I love fresh flowers all the time of course.

Roses are typically the traditional flower given on this lovey day.  But how about something a little different?

I came across this florist designers website, Studio Choo. There is some amazing inspiration for different flowers to consider aside from Roses.

How about Sweet Peas for your Sweet Pea?

Did you know that Sweet Peas symbolize pleasures, and Peonies symbolize happy life and happy marriage.  Now I understand why my Grandfather planted several peonies in the garden for my Grandmother – the love of his life.

(Studio Choo)

Ranunculus are so pretty too!  They are a reminder that Spring is coming.
Absolutely gorgeous combination of colours.

(Studio Choo)

If your heart is set on Roses, how about mixing them up with Spring seasonal favourites such as Tulips?

(Studio Choo)

Here is an excellent link for the Farmer’s Almanac reference of the history and meaning of flowers – Farmer’s Almanac.

Did you know that certain colours of Roses have meanings?

Red Roses – Unconscious beauty, love, desire
White Roses – Purity, innocence, heavenly
Pink Roses – Grace, happiness, gentleness
Yellow Roses – joy, friendship, promise of a new beginning
Orange Roses – desire and enthusiasm
Lavender Roses – love at first sight
Coral Pink Roses – friendship, modesty, sympathy

And a red Tulip symbolizes a declaration of love.  Yellow Tulips symbolize a sunshine in your smile.
(source: Farmer’s Almanac)

I could go on and on.  But one things for sure, I would like a bunch of Peonies in assorted colours from my husband.

What are your favourites flowers?  Are you purely a Rose girl, or do you like a mix of different flowers and colours?

Nook of Inspiration

Do you have a little nook of inspiration?  Perhaps in your home, studio, or office?

I am working on something that will be launching tomorrow.  I can’t wait to unveil the secret!

But before getting to work, I thought I’d take a moment for a little inspiration.  This is what I have on the corner of my desk, right next to my computer monitor.  It is a collection of things that I love, which really inspires me.

The flowers are hydrangeas and roses.  I love having flowers on my desk.  It makes my work station feel more inviting, cosier, and romantic.

The bell is a big favourite of mine, especially since it was given to me by dear friends of mine.  When I get a really good idea, I will proudly ring my bell.  My bell makes me smile and it adds a little fun to my day.

Lighting a candle to add a sweet scent in the air is also another lovely idea.  It creates a very inviting atmosphere which helps me to work longer hours….gladly and happily.

The paper weight I just love.  The colours are bright and cheerful.

So If you don’t already have one, I hope I’ve inspired you to create one for yourself.

inspiration_nook