The Grower's Daughter

Happy New Year Wishes and New Beginnings

2012-01-03T10:08:00.000-05:00

via Linen and Lavender

I first began blogging as the start of something new. My ambitions were to finally compose my thoughts, share my passions and inspire my readers to revel in the beauty of each day.

I feel that looking back on the last year, having read each of your lovely comments, that I have been able to accomplish each of those ambitions.

I love the feelings that come with a new year. I love the anticipation of change, the desire to live more fully and the feelings of starting fresh.

As I write this, I am both looking forward to a new beginning, and still slightly unsure if I really want the now to end.

I have decided to finish blogging, if not forever, for a while. I feel as though I'm being called to try some new things this year. I will also be closing my Etsy shop, and what is probably hardest for me, will not be hosting my annual Vintage Tag Sale in the Fall.

It should be understood that I will be leaving these things not for negative reasons, but for ones that I am greatly anticipating.

Ryan and I are happily expecting our second baby this summer. It is so wonderful to share my anticipation with Willen as he looks forward to being a big brother and learns what it will all entail. I look forward to spending the rest of the winter months at home, readying our house for another baby, freshening up the nursery and finishing off as many projects as I can accomplish before the baby arrives (within reason of course!). I look forward to enjoying the spring months without trying to make it to every estate sale I can possibly fit in. Don't get me wrong, I have many pieces I am still hunting down, but for once, I will actually keep them for myself. And for course, I cannot wait to meet our newest addition this summer and spend the rest of the year enjoying the blessings of our newly expanded family.

So, because it's as simple as that, I wish you all the happiest of new years and hope that you too are anticipating new beginnings and all the excitement that comes with a fresh start.

Thank you for being such wonderful readers and for everything this past year and a half. I have enjoyed sharing each and every post with you and look forward to reading about all that will be happening for you in the coming year on your beautiful blogs.

Best wishes,

Maria

A Very Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T14:25:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I have to admit, these are some of my favourite days of the year.

I am enjoying today immensely. It's so close to Christmas (something that has seemed even more exciting this year with Willen being old enough to enjoy and anticipate the festivities that come with the season)!

My shopping is done, presents are already wrapped, dinners planned, and my house is being cleaned and readied for this coming weekend.

We have a very relaxing Christmas planned this year. Christmas Eve day will be spent together as a family, then we will be off to our Christmas Eve service, followed by our annual Christmas party at our family's farm. We'll open our gifts Christmas morning, then head to my parents for breakfast. The evening will be spent at Ryan's parents for Christmas dinner and then we are back at the farm again for dinner on Boxing Day.

In short, lots of family, and lots of food.

Just how we love it.

Anyway, I've been preoccupied and haven't gotten around to posting much this season, but I have a few last things to share before the end of the year. I'm very much looking forward to a quiet rest of the year.

Here is the rest of our house decorated, wrapped gifts and a few other details.

Have a very Merry Christmas and may you be blessed this coming year.

The Heikoops

Our stockings and decorated banister.

Gifts wrapped and ready for our family celebrations.

I used simple white newsprint, thin twine, and vintage stamps to wrap my gifts this year.

We don't have a mantel so I always decorate the piano. Simple White Pine garland, which smells so lovely, wrapped with white lights and a few cream pillar candles.

We (Willen) are making a small dent in our gingerbread house. He did eventually figure out it was a giant cookie that he could eat!

Sweet and simple. They remind me of something you would send to family years ago when you couldn't be with them on Christmas. I found that really homey.

The stamps were found at Anthropologie - $6/ pack.

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas

2011-12-08T09:53:00.001-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Good Morning!

It's been a busy week, and the business seems like it's going to continue right through to the new year. Christmas parties and family celebrations have begun to fill our calenders and Christmas is in the air.

This week we put up our tree. I would have loved to visit one of our local tree farms to cut down our own perfect tree, but a week of constant rain has made that nearly impossible. Needing to trim our tree in time for a holiday party I'm hosting, I took Willen to our nearest Home Depot and picked out the perfect tree there. We spent the afternoon decorating the tree, and later made a gingerbread house.

Our house smells magnificent!

Here are a few photos of what has been decorated so far. I still have greenery to trim and add to shelves and mirrors, and the rest of our stockings need to be hung. Our piano and banister both need garland, and a few windows are in need of some small wreaths.

But for now, its beginning to look like Christmas.

My ornaments are simple silver balls and some vintage looking mercury glass ornaments.

I found this large bit of stitched together grain sacks this fall, and thought it made the perfect tree skirt.

A simple birch star nestled on top and white lights finished the tree.

Simple, and pretty.

I've put out a couple swags of mixed greenery and this vintage tree plate I found at the Country Living Fair on top of my large frame. It's adds the perfect amount of Christmas.

Our perfectly imperfect gingerbread house. Shaky hands and a curious little boy make for squiggly details, but I still think it's cute. I didn't put any candy on it because if I would have, I would be fighting all day with Willen who would be constantly trying to pick off candies! At least this way he doesn't seem to notice it as much. Yesterday at breakfast, with his chin resting on this hand, he informed me that he "loved our birdhouse, Mommy." I thought it was so cute.

A small dish of chocolate filled mints.

Our simple stockings hanging from the banister, with simple white ribbon and a glittery initial. They will look even more beautiful with garland around the railing.

Our First Snowfall

2011-11-30T13:51:00.001-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

It began this afternoon, gently, without any sound.

Our first snowfall.

A delicate blanket of white draped itself over our evergreens and cedars as the snow fell softy to the ground.

We didn't know how long it would stay and brighten our gloomy day, so we bundled as fast as we could, and we raced outside to greet our beautiful reminded that Winter is right around the corner.

Willen made his first snow angel. We read about how to make them in one of his library books and he's been patiently waiting to practise ever since.

Sopping wet, and a bit chilly, we finally decided to come inside (something that didn't take much more convincing than a warm cup of hot chocolate). Unfortunately, I found myself completely unprepared! I have no instant mix, cocoa or milk - let alone marshmallows or candy canes! How did that happen? I guess I need to stock up for winter.

Looks like daddy is going to be bringing us home a Venti Peppermint Hot Chocolate to share.

We'll be ready next time!

Christmas Decor - A Rustic Christmas

2011-11-30T09:08:00.001-05:00

via hviturlakkris.blogspot.com

As promised, here is my final set of inspirations:
A Rustic Christmas.

I can't help being drawn to the simplicity of this style, but also to the vintage charm.

I love the look of fresh greenery and potted trees tucked in a home full of old, beautiful things.

I find with this style, the seasonal decorating becomes less of the focus of a room, and more complimentary to it. It doesn't take over a space, but rather blends in here and there, adding bits of holiday cheer to each space.

Here are some beautiful rustic spaces decorated perfectly for the holiday season.

House and Home

Simple small trees, in simple milk jugs, with simple white lights.

via 1.bp.blogspot.com

Obviously a simple potted tree in a metal bucket is a popular choice and I can see why! It's so easy to do, and it looks so pretty. In the background, thin boughs make perfect accents to the tops of vents and windows, and form perfectly delicate wreaths.

via 4inspireddesign.com

More simple holiday decor from the same kitchen.

via 4inspireddesign.com

A pretty topiary adds a bit of festiveness, without looking typically Christmas.

Country Living

A simple holiday greeting strung from a cabinet.

via hviturlakkris.blogspot.com

I love paperwhites and other pretty white bulbs in old metalware, or even ironstone!

via hviturlakkris.blogspot.com

Again, a simple, rustic kitchen perfectly decorated for the holidays. I love the bits of red, including the red-striped linens, the simple wreaths, and again, more bulbs in a rustic urn. It's simple and perfect.

Christmas Decor - A White Christmas

2011-11-28T10:54:00.001-05:00

Better Homes and Gardens

Anyone who knows me knows that I have an attraction to all things white. It's quite ridiculous actually, and has become a definite joke amongst family and friends.

What can a girl do?

I simply like white.

So of course you can imagine that quite a lot of my seasonal decor is white, making it very easy to pull off a White Christmas. Here are some lovely rooms to inspire just that.

via 2.bp.blogspot.com

I love simple greenery and white.

Jonathan Klunk

Frosted boughs make for a beautiful mantel, though it's not quite simple enough for my own personal tastes. I do love the boxwood in the urns though!

via klikk.no

A large tree, trimmed with a few scattered ornaments is still nice... I don't need a lot of decorations on my tree. I also love the lanterns and candles placed around the room for an ambient glow.

via bing.com

This truly white tree, all frosted and glowing, is beautiful. It's a gorgeous focal point, but it still blends nicely with the all white decor. Being frosted, and full of sparkle also lends nicely to the space and compliments the ruffled chair covers and pretty chandeliers.

Country Living

More on the vintage side, these pretty bottle brush trees, displayed collectively, with only a few decorations, make for a pretty white vignette. They look lovely tucked underneath the stairs.

via sweetpaulmag-digital.com

And a beautiful white tablescape complete with white candelabras, pretty white ribbons and silvery accents would make for a lovely dinner party or Christmas dinner.

Later this week, in hopes of finally coming up with a style for this Christmas season, I will feature some inspirations for a Rustic Christmas. There are some beautiful rooms I can't wait to share.

I'm in the middle of getting my rooms cleaned and ready for decorating and then, early next week we'll be off to hunt down the perfect tree and deck the halls!

Have a lovely week.

Christmas Decor - A Natural Christmas

2011-11-25T12:41:00.001-05:00

via 4inspireddesign.com

I love this room with it's dark wood, white walls and gold details (Similar shades are found in my living room). The topiaries and pots of moss add the perfect natural touch without feeling too "Christmassy".

In hopes of finding some inspiration for the quickly approaching holiday season, I have begun looking through photos to decide on this year's theme.

I prefer to keep my decorating fairly simple. I don't like have the space for a huge tree, and ornate decorations just don't work well with a two year old. Also, who needs the extra dusting?

On the other side, I do like trimming a tree, decking the halls and adding some festive cheer to our home.

So, what kind of Christmas would I like this year?

A rustic Christmas with woven baskets full of scented pine cones, sap bucks full of fresh cut greenery, and simple seedlings with twinkle lights?

Or maybe, a pretty white Christmas with glittering glass ornaments, frosted mantel boughs and pretty packages with plump white bows?

Or, how about a natural Christmas with ironstone full of blooming paper whites, fresh fruit tucked amongst the greenery and bouquets of fresh flowers?

To start, here are some pretty inspirations for a perfectly Natural Christmas. Next week I will be sharing some inspirations for a Rustic Christmas, and a White Christmas.

How do you plan to decorate for the holiday?

via heirloomphilosphy.blogspot.com

I love gold frames and I think that fresh greenery compliments it so beautifully. I love the assortments of clippings used here - and it looks a little more structured and full than typical white pine or cedar boughs. It's almost more of an arrangement. The pears are a nice addition and add perfect pops of a brighter green.

via amandacarolathome.com

Simple is always stylish and beautiful. The simple swag on the mantel, and the simple boxwood wreath are just enough to make this space feel festive. The potted white Poinsettia is also a nice touch, as are the fresh tulips which add a bit of freshness to the room.

Country Living

Here is an example of natural Christmas decor with a bit of a primitive touch. Again, the fruit tucked amongst the mantel and simple pine boughs.They work well with the gray walls and make the room even more cozy.

Mid West Living

And finally, more mantels. This time, with a few pine cones and some Granny Smith apples for pops of vibrant green. Sweet and simple.

A Day In The Country - Antique and Vintage Show

2011-11-19T20:55:00.001-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

I hope you're having a lovely weekend.

This morning, my parents and I drove out to Caledonia for what was to be an amazing antique and vintage sale: A Day in the Country. It was a collaboration of some of my favourite vendors and I was pretty sure it wasn't going to disappoint.

And it most certainly did not.

I did take my camera along to snap some photos, but being a rather dark (though surprisingly cozy) Quanza hut, they aren't the prettiest. However, they will at least give you an idea of what I got to browse all morning!

Enjoy.

PS. The show is on again tomorrow. See this previous post for details:

A Day in the Country

Only Kim and her husband could make a Quanza hut this inviting. Recognize those gorgeous urns?

The booths were full of a variety of things: Chippy rustic pieces, 19th century antiques, painted furniture and architectural details.

Beautiful things filled vignettes everywhere you looked.

This was one of my favourites. I just loved this little blue cupboard (though there were a dozen beautiful cupboards, any of which I would have taken home!), and the medicine cabinet, but especially that garden rabbit. Oh, and I did come home with a pretty little white cupboard, but I will post photos of that next week.

She always has the most curious collections of things and as a result, it usually takes me a long time to browse through everything. Of course, she pulls it all together beautifully as well, coming up with perfect displays.

I believe this was another vendors cabinet, and it was also quite nice - it was a faint green.

Until I looked at this photo, I didn't realize I had missed that lamp! I've been looking for one similar to it and now I wish I would have seen it.

And another beautiful piece - this one was very old, and very gorgeous. I was particularly amazed at her collection of ironstone. She has some extremely unique pieces, and some very old pieces. It's always so tempting!

Isn't the wear just perfect on this piece?

Inspirations

2011-11-16T11:01:00.001-05:00

Tiffany Hechner Dixon

What a pretty little vignette.

It's Wednesday today, and a general not-feeling-like-doing-much-of-anything kind of day.

I've washed our linens and will eventually get around to some much needed vacuuming, but for now I think I might snuggle a while with Willen under our duvet and read together. Though the temperatures are mild for November, the drizzling rain and dreary skies are making us feel a little lazy this morning.

Here are some beautiful images to inspire you.

Unknown

I love the simplicity of this stairway, and the perfect contrast of the dark, rich woods and the bright, crisp whites. I love the collection of framed artwork (something I always have my eye out for), and I would love to find that exact bench and pretty cushions - It's perfect!

Justine Taylor

I can't think of a cozier place to curl up on a day like today. It just needs a lush knitted throw and a warm cup of tea.

Justine Taylor

Another great Butchers Pantry! I love so much about this space... where to start?

1- That sofa. It's gorgeous.

2- The cream walls with beautiful built-ins and ceiling details.

3 - The runner. I've been looking for something just like this for when we remove the carpeting in our hall.

4- The Dutch door in the background!

5 - If this space had a sink - say in the white cabinet in the front right of the photo, this would make the perfect space for arranging fresh flowers.

6 - The storage without the look of storage: Notice the simple hooks under the painting to the left? And all those simple bins that could house so many different things. The umbrella bucket and all the doors on the table?

Martha Stewart

I always think this is a dramatic looking kitchen. I love the rich wood counters and the simple white cabinets, but I think it's the old hardware, the fantastic faucet and the striking floors that make this kitchen so pretty.

Unknown

And finally, (seemingly opposite to my own personal style!) this pretty writing desk. I'm white walls all the way, but something about these dark, charcoal walls makes this little space so cozy and warm. The desk is a beautiful piece (though I would find a different chair), and the whole little set up is perfectly inviting. I would actually incorporate this into my home!

Reed Photography: A Vintage Table and A Bridal Shower

2011-11-15T15:51:00.001-05:00

All Photos - Reed Photography

I would love to share a few beautiful images from the talented Reeds of Reed Photography.

I met Shane and Jenny at my first vintage sale. I remembered them particularly because they paid attention to the detailed work I put into styling the event - something I took as a huge compliment.

Soon after, I got a call from the couple to come out and style a tablescape for the launching of their new website. I couldn't have been more thrilled. I packed my truck (literally) with a load of vintage treasures and made my way out to their home in the midst of a gorgeous valley near by. We fought mosquito's until the sun went down, but I had a blast!

You can view the gorgeous album here on their website.

A Vintage Table

The next time I got to work with these two was for a local wedding event. They had a fabulous idea for a booth at a show and were looking for some vintage pieces. I couldn't have been happier to help! Didn't they do a gorgeous job on the booth? It's so not a typical wedding booth - something I would have been instinctively drawn to. The dresser is now in Willen's room and this was my old coffee table, however soon after this, it sold.

Finally, Jenny was amazing and captured some of a bridal shower I recently hosted. We have a wonderful Worship Pastor who recently married an amazing woman, Kayla, and we wanted to welcome her to Canada (they're from the States), and show her how happy we are for them.

Of course, I was busy arranging food, and making tea, and didn't have time to take any photos. I was particularly glad that Jenny brought her camera along and happily photographed the afternoon for me!

In short, this couple is an amazing team and they are truly talented. They've got a beautifully modern, yet classic style that makes for amazing photos and their work honestly speaks for itself.

If you're looking for a wedding or portrait photographer in the Niagara Region, please check out their website. You won't be disappointed!

Reed Photography

A Burning Beauty and The Last Rose

2011-11-11T13:08:00.001-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Last night, while Willen was busy being bathed and read to by my mom, Nona, I decided to pop out for a quick trip to Chapters with my sister.

I think I could spend hours there.

A typical visit begins with my picking up a latte from the in-house Starbucks, before heading to the kids section. On my way, I'm able to sneak a glossy new issue of something enticing, like British Country Living, and settle into an arm chair while Willen plays at the wooden train table. It's actually quite a nice little outing that we do fairly often. Mommy gets to enjoy her coffee and a good read, while Willen socializes with the other kids and plays with his favourite little trains.

However, it never seems like we're able to actually make it out of the children's section.

Last night I went beyond the towering gate of classic books, and out of the realm of life size animals.

I made it to the rest of the store.

I browsed the beautiful new cookbooks and the recently released issues of favourite decorating books. I flipped through all of the November issues of favourite publications and browsed the packets of stationary. I tested favourite creams, and smelled each new holiday candle. I ran my hands across smooth cashmere pashminas and lush knitted throws.

I even made it to the clearance rack.

Oh how I love the clearance rack at Chapters!

I found a McBlooms body wash that was 50% off (a favourite scent), a set of 6 Lucia goats milk guest soaps that was 75% off, and the most exciting, a Lollia candle in the most beautiful scent I've smelled.

It's called When the Leaves Turn No. 85, and it smells exactly like a room full of freshly arranged flowers. It's actually quite amazing how similar the two smell. I don't often find scented candles that I love enough to burn through (not to mention pay for), so I tend to stock up on cream pillar candles. But this particular scent is heavenly, and it was also 50% off!

Do you have a favourite smell, a staple candle you stock up on, or a signature scent?

Lollia is by Margot Elena, also the creator of Tokyo Milk.

This size retails for $22.99.

I also snipped the last bloom of my climbing roses this morning. It was actually faintly hailing while I did so.

The roses are called Peace and they're a delicate yellow with hints of fucia. I thought they were suiting as today is Remembrance Day.

Simple Scones

2011-11-10T13:54:00.001-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

This past Saturday, I hosted a bridal shower (there will be photos of that coming soon, courtesy of Jenny from Reed Photography). It was a tea.

When I think of tea, I think of plump scones smothered in melted butter and a generous spoonfull of sweet preserves. I've tried numerous scone recipes and, until now, have yet to be successful in finding the perfect scone recipe.

Unsuccessful that is, until I came across this recipe from Bill's Food by Bill Granger.

It took me 3 attempts to get the results I was looking for. I added my own personal notes to the recipe in hopes of maybe preventing you from having to try three times as well.

The recipe itself is super simple. I guess that's why he calls them Simple Scones.

Simple Scones

1 tbsp. Icing sugar

2 1/2 c. plain flour [spooned and leveled]

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder [good quality to help them rise beautifully]

pinch of salt

1 c. milk

1 oz. melted butter

White sugar and 1 tbsp. milk for tops

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a bowl, sift together dry ingredient. Add milk and butter. Stir with a knife to combine [don't over mix, and stop stirring once it's mostly incorporated].

Once it's roughly together and sticky, turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead quickly and gently together just until smooth. [This is key! The dough should be slightly sticky and moist so that the dough incorporates quickly. Just do quick little pats and turns until it's fairly smooth and not piecey. Over - kneading activates the glutens too much and makes the scones tougher.]

Pat disk out until it's about 1 1/2 inches thick. Using a 2" diameter circle cutter, cut scones from dough. Place circles on a lightly greased cooking sheet. Quickly and gently knead the scraps and cut again until all the dough is used.

Brush tops with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake 10 minutes and remove when golden.

[I found that the baking time was actually more like 15 minutes, and that they browned nicer, without over baking, when I turned on the broiler for the last minute or two, watching carefully.]

Serve warm with butter, lightly whipped cream, or more preferably, clotted cream, and preserves.

I found a set of these butter knives in a huge lot of vintage silver plated cutlery I picked up a while ago.

This is a cute little milk and sugar set I picked up at a thrift store. It's small and has engraved violets. It's perfect for tea for one!

I really am happy with this recipe. The scones are perfectly shaped and delicious!

Of course, Willen joined me for tea. He even wanted to add his own milk as it was a "Teeny tiny milk," according to him "and he could do it on his own, mummy.".

These are little ironstone Demitasse cups I found at a bakery in town. They're so sweet, with pretty detailing, and are perfect for espresso, or as tea cups for Willen!

I've Got a Dollar

2011-11-08T19:51:00.000-05:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Recently I've been going through old photos I have in my files and burning them to backup disks in case something happens to our computer. I have all of Willen's baby photos, and pretty much everything else on here and I've been meaning to get them off my hard drive for a while now. It's taking me quite a long time, but it's worth the effort.

In the meantime, I've really enjoyed flipping through old photos I haven't seen in a while.

I found these while going through our honeymoon albums.

This is a house Ryan and I came across. It's somewhere near Virginia.

I think it's gorgeous.

Oh, and by the way - it was for sale!

Mhmmm.

A Day in the Country - Antiques & Vintage Sale

2011-11-02T20:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday.

I just wanted to pass along an invitation I received to an upcoming event that I am very much looking forward to:

A Day in the Country

Antiques & Vintage Sale

Remember these lovely booths at Christie's that I posted on a while back?

Tattered and Torn

Feathers

Well if you've been dying to check them out again, as I have, then come out to their sale and expect to come home with amazing finds!

Here are the details of the sale since it may be a bit hard to read the original invite:

Saturday, November 19th from 10 until 4

Sunday, November 20th from 10 until 4

903 Haldibrook Road. Calidonia, Ontario. N3W 1N5

No early birds and bring your mittens because it might be a little chilly, despite being under cover.

email - tatteredandtorn@shaw.ca

Hopefully I'll see a lot of you there!

Afternoon Tea at The Prince of Wales Hotel

2011-11-01T11:37:00.000-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Last week I went for tea with my cousin. It's a special treat to get out just the two of us, and this time was even more lovely, as we were able to catch up over a lovely pot of tea and the most delicious little treats.

It was quite a wonderful way to spend a dreary Fall afternoon, let me tell you. Both being Austen fans, we couldn't help but long to have tea like this every time we paid our social visits!

Here's a little peak at how we got to spend our afternoon out. I'm sure it won't be long before we head back again!

Enjoy.

Tea is served in the Drawing Room at the Historic Prince of Wales Hotel, downtown Niagara on the Lake.

The Outer Room - Note the cold, rainy day.

The room is ornate and full of old parlor Antiques.

Around the love seats and larger sitting areas are the cozier spots for Tea for Two. This is where we were seated. I decided I would like to look for a pair of chairs like this, redone in linen, along with a simple, small table just for afternoon teas like this.

Our cozy little corner. We were the only ones for most of the afternoon which made it even cozier.

We ordered the Traditional Tea for Two. We could each select a tea from a list of the finest loose tea, brewed perfectly. We decided on Earl Grey, and a classic Orange Pekoe. After tea was poured, our accompaniments came out: A selection of four little desserts (A Strawberry Petite Four, Chocolate Dipped Shortbread, Chocolate Mousse with Mandarin Orange, and a Lemon Tartlette), a large scone with Jasmine infused raisins and traditional clotted cream, churned butter and Greaves Strawberry Preserves (a local favourite), and finally an assortment of tea sandwiches (including Ham and Cheese, Cucumber, Salmon and Egg, all on house made breads).

Needless to say, it was delicious!

The yummy little treats.

Somehow, two hours managed to fly by leaving our pots empty, our treats finished, and us very relaxed. We toured around the hotel a little while before heading home. The entire hotel is extremely ornate. The halls were lined with a vast collection of old portraits, and very rich wood details.

Outside the weather brightened a little, and we walked around the hotel.

The hotel spans a block downtown.

Inspirations - Autumn Decor

2011-10-26T12:18:00.001-04:00

Unknown

Here are some of my current inspiration rooms.

The seasons effect my tastes so much. They have a great deal to do with my ever-evolving home. I believe that your home is never complete. I'm constantly developing my style, and tweaking it. It is being effected by my surroundings all the time. To me, it's what makes decorating fun, and what keeps it interesting.

Country Living

Obviously, rich woods paired with contrasting clean whites are always a favourite, but they seem especially Fall. I love the look of bits of nature scattered throughout a room: A small ironstone dish of collected acorns, a pumpkin or gourd tucked amongst a vignette, and maybe even a few gathered branches in a vase for a colourful arrangement.

Country Living

I find Fall to be one of my most favourite seasons to cook: Rich ingredients, comfort foods, colourful produce. This is a gorgeous pantry, perfect for housing rustic rolling pins and boards, large ironstone mixing bowls, vintage jars full of grains and flours, and baskets full of earthy carrots, potatoes and onions.

Unknown

This fireplace is breathtaking! The floors are gorgeous, and the chairs are just as charming. What a perfectly cozy setting for an intimate wedding. I also love cream pillar candles. I find I burn mine nearly each night during these months because it seems to get dark so early. They make my living space cozy and inviting - perfect for knitting or reading with my tea and knitted throw.

Unknown

This kitchen is bright and spacious, and more true to my kitchen tastes. There are a few little details in this particular one though that are my favourite.

1 - Those gorgeous old light fixtures.

2 - The collection of old rolling pins and how simple they look displayed on the wall.

3 - The collection of old bottles on the left counter. I wouldn't be able to live with them out on my counter, but they would look equally as lovely in a window.

4 - That door. How I love that door. It's perfect.

Country Living

And finally, collections of old classic literature. As I've mentioned before, I have been reading through all of Jane Austen's novels and I am enjoying myself immensely. In fact, I've been so inspired by their social calls and afternoon teas that my best friend and I have decided to go for high tea tomorrow at a historic hotel in Niagara on the Lake. I couldn't think of a lovelier way to spend a dreary Autumn afternoon than over a cup of perfectly served tea, complete with petite sandwiches and delicate pastries, warm scones with jam and Devonshire cream, and of course, good company. Later, we will "do town" and pop in and out of the quaint little shops, trying to avoid the rain. I'm so looking forward to it.

Have a lovely afternoon.

Road Trip Highlights - The Country Living Fair and Ohio

2011-10-25T17:07:00.000-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

My mother kindly reminded me this morning that I had yet to blog about our road trip down to Ohio for the Country Living Fair.

How has it already been a month since we've been back?

Well... better late than never! Here are some highlights from the Country Living Fair in Columbus, Ohio, and a few other photos from our trip out to Charm, a quaint little town in Ohio, and a favourite vacation spot of my parents.

Now, first you have to understand that whole "Trip to Ohio" thing. When we were little girls, my parents used to take us to "visit the Amish". That's right... That was were we vacationed. At one point, they even bought all four of us little Amish dresses and bonnets. Most parents vacationed in the South, or maybe headed East, but not my parents. For years they have made annual trips down to Ohio; Charm, Ohio to be exact. It's not that I remember having a bad time there - it was always fun. But, as we've grown up, it's become a joke in our family that my parents still insist on going back to their favourite little spot.

This year, having already planned to attend the Country Living Fair, which happens to be only a couple hours from Charm, my parents convinced me to head out there with them. I took Willen and my sister along for a little road trip and honestly, I can't say I was expecting to enjoy myself as much as what I did. I mean I knew it would be fun, especially for Willen, but I didn't think I would love it nearly as much as I did.

Being only five hours away from us, it was the perfect distance for our weekend adventure. We ate at my parents favourite little restaurant each night, walked the local towns, and of course, enjoyed the best coffee and donuts in all of Holmes County. The inn we stayed at was cozy, and complete with a fireplace and jacuzzi tub (Willen was convinced he had his own personal swimming pool). The towns were nestled into big rolling hills, speckled with horses, and humming with the constant sound of buggies passing. The houses were simple and white and always in pristine condition (and always with a laundry line that seemed to go on forever!). But all the quaint, country charm and homey goodness aside, there was one particular reason I loved the trip.

The junking.

Barns full, warehouses full, even roadside sheds full! It was a constant hunt for the best hidden treasures and I came home with a car full of beautiful pieces!

The fair was a great afternoon, as always, but it really was only part of the fun, and to be honest, I can see exactly why my parents go so often.

After all, I can't wait to go back.

Enjoy.

The fair never fails to inspire me for the soon arriving Fall season.

This booth was a great assortment of vintage industrial.

These pillows (and bag below), were a favourite handmade find.

Urban Farmhouse - Always a favourite.

I think this year, STASH took the place of my favourite booth. There was just so much going on, and such creativity, you could spend hours browsing through her gorgeously styled booth.

Summerhouse - Another favourite, was beautiful and full of ironstone as always.

The gorgeous countryside.

And my father's favourite find. This is literally a shed on the side of the main road through Charm that is just full of the most random assortment of junk. The owner can be found repurposing old windows into garden benches, another stack of finds piled high on his old pick up. I think my father shopped there each day.

This is how we spent a lot of our time - driving around, climbing through old barns.

And of course, there was lots for Willen to do as well! In town, there was a hugely popular family farm. It was a petting farm, store, bakery, farmer's market and restaurant all in one. He spent his time there feeding ice cream cones full of pellets to the hungry little goats and chasing chickens. He was in awe of "Big Ben", the 3000lb Clydesdale and even rode his first pony, Shorty. A highlight of the trip was when we first arrived in Ohio. He stepped out of the van and in his most serious voice, he plainly greeted a local Amish man with a "Hey Cowboy.". We all nearly died laughing. It was priceless.

An Updated Living and Dining Room

2011-10-21T16:08:00.000-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

I wanted to share a few quick updates I've been working on in our living and dining room. They are nearly complete, there are just a few more details still needing to be finished.

First of all, I switched out our old loveseats for this loveseat and chair set that had previously been in our basement. It's the classic slip-covered Ikea sofa set. It's white, it's durable, and it looks a little more polished than the covered loveseats did. The old ones may furnish this room again one day, when I've had the chance to get them professionally refinished, but for now, this set is clean and simple - just what I was looking for.

Having sold my old trunk, I needed a replacement coffee table fast. For now, the matching poof works perfectly with a simple white tray on top.

The piano switched walls and I finally hung some artwork. I found this pair of portraits from Tattered and Torn and am happy to have found a home for them. It should be clear that I have absolutely no artwork in my house. This is something that I've always wanted to change. My husband and I both love artwork, and can appreciate good art. However, I have a very specific idea of what I love, and I've never been able to find myself something that matches that close enough. I love old landscapes and ornate frames, but we both find ourselves drawn to old, dark portraits. These two really did work perfectly. Maybe one day I will find two matching frames for them...

Space is quite limited in our living room, but we also have a large family room in our basement that houses our entertainment systems and has a cozy fireplace. I just wanted something simple and put together for our main floor. To me, this room is nice enough for a more formal sitting room, but

is still livable and inviting.

Opposite the loveseat is our armchair. This is my chair - the place where I enjoy my morning coffee and devotional, the place where I knit or read, and the place where Willen and I like to snuggle with our books before bed.

In our dining room, I got a replaced our old white pedestal table with a new one. It's slightly higher, but more narrow than the previous one, so it fits this space better. I also borrowed four wicker chairs from my sister in law. She wasn't using them... I wanted to buy the same ones new... so here they are! I love my sister in law.

The wicker warms this previously very white space up a great deal (though you can't tell from these dark photos... it's so dreary outside and I'm lacking natural light, but it's been rainging forever!).

And finally, the last of my Limelights. The rest have all turned their dusty rose with the cold weather.

Guest Post from Design Shuffle - Rustic Decor

2011-10-20T17:49:00.000-04:00

Is anyone else feeling a little blah with all this rain?

I mean don't get me wrong... I have thoroughly enjoyed an afternoon nap with Willen, warm and cozy under our duvet. I've taken out my knitting (something to occupy me when the days get cooler) and I've begun making regular trips to the library to supply myself with an endless stack of beautiful cookbooks, inspiring back issues and of course, a few good pieces of literature.

I have also begun tackling items on my master to-do list. Things like having our furnace inspected before the winter comes, packing away summer clothes, laundering slipcovers etc... I have been feeling really productive around the house lately.

I've even finished a great deal of my Christmas shopping for this year!

I would say I've been spending most of my time lately, however, fluffing our nest. When I think of decorating during these Fall months, I think rustic. Today I have a guest post from Susi, a writer with Design Shuffle, sharing some tips on how to add the element of rustic style to rooms in your own home.

Thanks Susi.

Enjoy.

I’m Susi, a writer for DesignShuffle.com, a great place for people passionate about design to showcase their work and to browse tens of thousands of images from interior designers from around the world. Speaking of photos, The Grower's Daughter invited us to share pics and decorating ideas for rustic décor. Elements of rustic decor add charm and a relaxed style to many rooms. Rustic décor elements are also perfect for fall decorating. Here are some of our favorite elements. Hope you enjoy!

Hostess with the Mostest via

This collage shows many elements of rustic décor: repurposed finds; natural elements; handmade and handcrafted; seasonal touches. Mason jars are workhorses of possibilities; use them as vases, storage, candles...there are endless uses.

Blue Velvet Chair via

Love this Mason jar chandelier. The rope and wood add more rustic charm to this charming DIY candlelier.

Crate and Barrel via

Natural elements are key to rustic décor. This driftwood mirror from Crate & Barrel has a rustic, beach style that would work well with a rustic or cottage décor.

Pinterest via

A big design element of rustic décor is wood. This contemporary rustic bathroom has horizontal wood panels that recall a log cabin, but the fixtures are decidedly contemporary. A perfect mix for intriguing bathroom designs.

The Sweetest Occasion via

Farmhouse and rustic styles are similar in their love for vintage elements. Flea market finds like wire baskets and painted and aged wood tables add rustic charm to any décor.

Update Dallas via

Rustic décor in the kitchen adds an old world charm to the room. Natural stone on the walls and floor pair with aged wood beams and columns. Vintage school style lighting works well with all the rustic elements.

Elle Decor via

Rustic décor can also be elegant and chic. This dining room/library has the wooden beams of a barn mixed with antique arm chairs; a traditional chandelier and a farmhouse table; deep colors against creams.

Elle Decor via

Rustic décor elements like natural stone, wood and nods to the outdoors in the form of taxidermy mix with modern furnishings in this living room. Mixing modern and rustic makes for interesting and appealing interior designs.

For more great ideas and inspiration from interior designers across the U.S. - from San Diego interior designers to New York interior designers - check out Design Shuffle!

Baking Day - A Thanksgiving Apple Pie

2011-10-14T13:51:00.000-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Tomorrow night is our second Thanksgiving dinner for my husbands side of the family.

It's going to be an intimate dinner and a nice quiet evening with family.

My mother-in-law is making the turkey and potatoes, my sister-in-law the vegetable sides, and I will be bringing desert and the stuffing (my favourite part).

We've already enjoyed a pumpkin pie so I thought I would bring something different. With our orchards full of delicious apples and luscious pears, I decided to make the most of the abundance of fruit and make an apple pie.

I've recently fallen in love with Donna Hay. Her cookbooks have quickly become a favourite of mine. The styling is gorgeous and the recipes are simple.

Today I used her recipe for Sweet Shortcrust Pastry. I then used my own recipe for Apple Pie Filling and voila! Dessert.

Here is the recipe below.

Sweet Shortcrust Pastry

2 cups plain flour

3 tbsp. caster (superfine) sugar

5 oz cold butter chopped

2 -3 tbsp. iced water

Filling

8 Green apples

1 tbsp. ground Cinnamon, peeled and sliced

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp. plain flour

1 tbsp. water

Topping

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 tbsp. raw sugar

1 tsp. ground Cinnamon

In the food processor, combine sugar, flour and butter. Pulse until it's the texture of fine breadcrumbs. While the motor is running, add enough iced water to form a smooth dough and process until just combined. Knead dough lightly, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll out 2/3 of dough and line plate. Mix filling ingredients together. Fill shell with filling and cover with remaining dough. Brush with a lightly beaten egg and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Bake for 30 minutes until golden.

I prefer the raw sugar on top to give the crust a delicious crunch!

I found this classic glass cake stand for $19 on my last trip down to Ohio. It's my new favourite.

Yesterday my husband, son and I went for a lovely afternoon hike at a local Provincial Park. It's peak time for the changing of the leaves here and we couldn't get enough of the brilliant fall colours and crisp fall air!

The Sunroom Makeover - An Office Space

2011-10-12T11:21:00.000-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

My sale is now over, and I'm left with a few "holes" in my house. Actually, to be honest, this year I'm left with quite a few holes! That's always a good thing. It means that I get to replace old pieces with new ones and tweak the look of my house a little bit more.

One room that was left quite sparse was my sunroom.

If you follow the link below, you can see how it looked prior to the sale.

The Old Sunroom

I had picked up a few new pieces that I knew I wanted to incorporate into my house, but I wasn't sure where. As I was moving pieces back inside, this room just kind of came together. I have been lacking an "office" space that I really want to be in. I previously had one upstairs, and at the time, had one in our basement. Neither were where I wanted to spend any length of time. I want to be near Willen while I'm writing and I don't want to feel like I'm locked away somewhere. However, doing all my work on our living room couch, or at the dining room table was getting old (and messy).

I sold the daybed that was in the room before, and moved the wicker chairs outside as they were looking a little tattered. The sunroom became a free space. I didn't want a sitting area - we never used it unfortunately. I didn't want an entrance - we're now accustomed to using the front one. So, what to make of it?

After moving a few pieces around, using mainly what I already had, this is what I came up with. A workspace. I have to say, I'm extremely happy with how it's turned out. It's simple, clean and useful and houses a few of my favourite things.

Enjoy!

The space is open again, which is great for traffic coming in and out of the back door. Even though we mainly use the front entrance, we use the back door. The previous space didn't allow for easy access which was beginning to get annoying. This is much more efficient. Oliver has already found a new favourite nap spot.

I moved this old rocker up from the basement and threw on a couple of my old pillows. It's a lighter stain and it matches the wicker nicely.

I had this old wicker trunk sitting around in the basement. It's empty, but I'm planning on moving some storage boxes with old files inside it. Since they don't require easy access so it will hold them perfectly. The old frame is one of my favourite pieces, as is the old European water can.

The is an old cottage table that I painted Heavy Cream by Martha Stewart. It's simple and is the perfect little writing desk. The French bistro chair is the most amazing shade. It's a sort of grayish linen colour and was found at The Country Living Fair (photos to come soon!). An old black desk lamp was brought up from my office downstairs.

Trying to keep things simple, I added a small cream ironstone pitcher and a dainty little ironstone sugar pot to hold clips and things. A simple vase with pencils is the only hint of office, aside from the computer, in the whole space. I like that.

Similarly, I kept the decor simple and just added a small glass cloche with a rustic nest to incorporate more of the natural elements in the room. It matched the displays on the shelves nicely - another nest in a pedestal glass cloche, a small clay bird, old white corbels, and a shadow box housing speckled quails eggs.

The windows make the space light and airy.

To fill out the rest of the wall, I added an old white window with rusty hardware on either side of the desk, and an old sap bucket with a boxwood plant inside. It's adds some green to the room and keep the room light and natural.

Happy Thanksgiving and Photos From The Tag Sale

2011-10-10T18:02:00.001-04:00

All Photos - The Grower's Daughter

Happy Thanksgiving!

We had our first of two dinners yesterday (it was to die for), and the second is next weekend. I've popped out to see the annual Thanksgiving shows in town, and we've spent the most beautiful long weekend together as a family. It couldn't be more perfect.

The past weeks have been a bit of a blur as I've been preparing for my annual sale. I honestly couldn't have been more happy with how everything turned out. I had so much help and perfect weather. Everything came together beautifully!

I managed to snap some photos after setting up on Friday night - something I'm never able to do! So, for those of you who could make it, here's a look. And for those who did come out, thank you so much! I love meeting readers, and chatting with friends, and doing once a year what I love to do most.

'Till next year!

These are the Thanksgiving bouquets that my parents made - they were stunning!

And my mother, who is super talented, supplied dozens of delicious tarts and cookies for with coffee in the cafe. Needless to say, the tarts were gone before I could even get over to sample one! I wasn't able to photograph them as they didn't come out until the next morning when things were insane (though I wish I could have because they looked so deliciously perfect!)

Preparing For Saturday's Sale

2011-10-05T15:34:00.001-04:00

via Little Emma English Home

My house is currently under siege.

My garage is packed with finds, and crates and ladders and garden chairs are spilling out onto my lawn.

My sink is full of suds and there is a towering pile of freshly washed ironstone sitting on my counter.

My dining room table is covered in items being priced and tied with pretty ribbons.

My floors are filled with boxes of beautiful things waiting to be set up outside.

My buffet is covered in pillow covers, scraps of linen, stencil supplies and sewing notions.

It's probably at the height of confusion...

But I'm so happy.

I cannot wait to style everything for Saturday's sale. Vignettes are coming together in my mind and everything is falling perfectly into place.

The week of rain has even cleared up, making way for a perfectly sunny Thanksgiving weekend ahead!

It's a great day.

The Grower's Daughter 2nd Annual Vintage Tag Sale

2011-09-26T16:22:00.001-04:00

Click photo to view invite.

The Grower's Daughter is hosting it's second annual Vintage Tag Sale!

See the invitation for details and please feel free to email me for more information.

growersdaughter@gmail.com

I've spent the year assembling a collection of the most beautiful finds: Aged Ironstone, Rustic Furnishings, Industrial Decor and other Salvaged Finds.

This year's sale has a little bit of everything and a ton of treasures.

There are some great little shops in the area to browse, countless wineries to visit, as well as the Annual Thanksgiving Shows happening at Balls Falls Conservation Area and Vineland Public School being held the same weekend, so it's the perfect day to come down!

We'll also have our Flower Market full of Fall Garden Decor and gorgeous Seasonal Bouquets, as well as our Cafe where you can grab a freshly brewed coffee and something sweet!

See you there!

Inspirations

2011-09-24T12:10:00.000-04:00

Country Home

Today is one of those wonderful Saturday mornings in the Fall.

It's slightly overcast, with little hints of sunshine here and there. It's the perfect weather for open windows and linens on the line. Everything feels relaxed, but productive.

I can hear the hum of the washing machine as I make pastry for a Pumpkin Pie (the first of the season), and I can faintly smell the smokey scents of a neighbor's wood stove coming through my kitchen window. There is a roast cooking with chunks of carrot, onion and potato for dinner tonight, and I'm just about to mop my floors. I've been to the market, and out for breakfast, and am just about to put a sleepy boy down for a nap.

I love Saturdays like this.

Here are a few images that I have brought me a lot of inspiration lately.

Happy Saturday.

via Little Emma English Home

This image has really inspired a makeover in Willen's room (which is not nearly finished yet as I just haven't found the time, and quite frankly, don't mind). The crates are great storage and I love the wired frames with bits hanging from it. I am also very much in love with that gorgeous mirrored cabinet, particularly the colour.

Australian Country Style

I love this table and set of chairs. I also am very much drawn to these two styles of wood - dark and rich colours, as well as natural and softer finishes. They even work extremely well together. I also love the simple detail of the stairs and the overall relaxed feel the room has to it.

Country Living

Again, these natural woods are so beautiful. I also love the sofa and chair and of course, this gorgeous rustic table!

via Little Emma English Home

What can I say about this kitchen? It's just so perfectly well worn and lived in. It's gorgeous.

Country Living

I also love this room. It's symmetrical, which I'm always drawn to. I love the creamy walls, and the painted beds with crisp white linens. I like the simple frames in black for a bit of contrast, and I like the simple chair which makes a perfect night stand. It's simple and beautiful.

Country Living

And finally, this gorgeous room, which I believe is the upstairs apartment of an old converted Post Office. It's a little more romantic, but the textured of this house, and the details are just stunning. The exposed brick is perfectly worn, and the beams are so full of character and the mouldings... breathtaking. Oh, and the furnishings aren't too bad either!

First Day of Fall

2011-09-23T17:45:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Happy First Day of Fall!

Yesterday, the final day of summer, was the perfect weather to send off a great season. It was sunny and 22 degrees here in Ontario, and quite literally, a perfect day.

Today, being the first day of Autumn, would technically be the perfect Fall day weather wise. There has been a steady stream of rain coming down the entire afternoon, with no signs of letting up. It's cooler, and dark, and all around gloomy.

However, I'm not complaining! It may not be the crisp, cool, and colourful day I was hoping to get for an annual short trip planned to celebrate the arrival of a favourite season, but it's perfect in it's own way.

Cozying up on a dark afternoon and chatting over hot coffee is still a very nice Fall day, and that's exactly how we spent the morning. My cousin and I have a few special holidays that we like to throw into our calender. The first being annual Spring drive which is set aside to pick up Starbucks, and head out to bask in the warming sun on a still chilly morning, while we drive through the valleys and spot early signs of spring.

Next comes the holiday we celebrated today: Our annual Fall drive. The morning begins with a stop at Starbucks for a Pumpkin Spice Latte and an accompanying Pumpkin Scone and Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin (which we share of course). Our first stop is usually a favourite little farm stand called Inn The Pines. We browse the baskets of fresh produce grown right on the farm, watch the barnyard animals scurry around the grounds, and pick out a few gourds for small Autumn vignettes. Next we make our way out to the valley once more, to catch the early glimpses of the changing of the leaves. This is a really a beautiful thing to witness in Niagara. To conclude our drive, we usually end up at Whitty Farms or Natures Corner Bakery later in the afternoon for yet another coffee (and yes, something sweet... again) before heading back home.

Finally, and probably one of our most important, our last holiday is the 1st of December - The Official Ringing-In, of the Ringing-In, of the Holiday Season. That's the actual name. We thought it made the day more official. As you may as well have already guessed, this day begins, yet again, at Starbucks (coffee is a big deal to us) for our first Peppermint Mochas and Gingerbread Lattes of the Holiday season. This is a day for us to stay inside, by the fire, wrapping Christmas gifts and checking our lists. It's for writing our Christmas cards, and enjoying a Christmas dinner at 2 in the afternoon with Candy Cane ice cream for dessert, and for exchanging a little something we've probably been saving since Summer. Oh, and most importantly, we watch It's a Wonderful Life... every single December 1st. And you want to know something special?

It has snowed at some point, even if in the smallest of amounts, each year since we began this tradition many years ago, and in most cases, it's the first snow of the year.

But, that's still a few months away. Let's not get carried away. After all, today is just the first day of Autumn.

I'm pretty sure we're not the only ones who gets excited about seasonal beverages! What's your favourite festive sip?

The farm stand. It's quaint with just a little bit of everything.

The geese - my favourite. They were especially happy today with the coming showers.

The beautiful gardens.

A couple varieties of squash - I picked up two Butternuts for a pot of Roasted Butternut Squash soup tomorrow.

Pretty Radishes.

Apples, freshly picked from the surrounding fruit trees.

Christie's Antique Show - September

2011-09-13T17:25:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

This past weekend I made my way back to the Christie Antique Show. I didn't have as much time to browse, so I bee-lined for my favourite booths and ooed and awed over all their pretty things. These are from my two favourites (as featured before) Feathers and Tattered & Torn.

There were so many pieces I wanted to bring home with me.

Here are some highlights of their gorgeous booths.

Enjoy!

This piece would have made the most amazing kitchen island.

Joanna had the most beautiful collection of dress forms.

This pew should have come home with me. I was just about to check the price tag as she stuck a sold sign on it saying "This one went for $200." That's it? Why did I hesitate to look? It's aged and greying and just plain perfect.

This lovely pair of portraits from Tattered & Torn came home with me. I have yet to find them a home but they add the perfect contrast to my all-white walls. Also, I loved that mantel.

A pretty little collection of clocks.

My sister picked up a dresser almost identical to this. I was quite jealous!

I thought this was a fun little coffee grinder in a pretty shade of blue.

Ironstone...

I'm off to finish my laundry and get my house organized. Tomorrow, Willen and I will be spending the night at my parents house, before my sister and I head out on our road trip down to the Country Living Fair! We'll be meeting my parents in Ohio, and will take our time pulling off to dig through antique barns, browse boutiques and sip our Pumpkin Spice Lattes the whole way down!

I'll be back Saturday night. Have a lovely rest of the week.

From The Market - Peaches and Hydrangeas

2011-09-09T10:49:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Yesterday was market day in town. The threatening showers and cloudy grey skies didn't do much in the way of keeping people from making their way down to the town square.

I picked out a basket of peaches in hopes of finding a good canning recipe for some sort of peach jam or chutney. I'm not sure which yet, but in the mean time, they will sit and ripen on the window's ledge. This year I have yet to can a single thing and I'm determined to stock my pantry with something before the season is over. If the weather continues as it has for the last few days, I'm afraid I won't have as much time left as I had imagined!

I also found these lovely hydrangeas in a dark shade of green. I believe they are called Antique Dark Green, but I'm not sure. I haven't seen them before.

I'm about to head into town to pick out an engagement gift. I love gift shopping - and also, gift wrapping! After that, I have to finish painting a hutch, sew a slip cover for a chair, pack for the Christie Antique show tomorrow, and then spend a relaxing Saturday night at home with my boys.

I hope you all have lovely weekends.

Happy Friday.

Saturday Morning

2011-09-03T08:55:00.002-04:00

[Country Living]

As I sit here this morning, sipping my cafe au lait sprinkled with some pumpkin spice, enjoying a house full of the aromas from the freshly baked banana loaves, one would be inclined to think it a quiet Autumn Saturday morning.

If you were to actually see beyond these few lovely factors, you would see the following:

1 - I ran out of room on my chalk board when I was writing out my list of things to do for today.

2 - I feel like I'm in a foggy fish bowl. It's that humid outside.

3 - The grass must be cut today. Joy.

4 - The entire cast of Thomas the Train is scattered across my living room floor, along with, what seems like, enough track to get me to The Island of Sodor.

5 - There is a trail of oatmeal around my dining room because my son decided it would be fun to play airplane mid-breakfast. I was busy baking and didn't notice.

6 - Not a single step is free of a bag of supplies, still waiting to be put away from Wednesday.

7 - I had to re-spin a load of whites because they wrinkled before I managed to fold them and put them away. I don't know how that happens.

8 - By the time I did actually manage to sit down to my latte, it was cold.

But,

It's a long weekend, and none of that seems to bother me this morning. I have all day to putter around and get things back in perfect order (or as perfect as they will be), before our weekend plans begin.

Any special plans for this last weekend of summer?

Happy Saturday.

Home Tour - An Autumn-Inspiring Country Cottage

2011-08-30T12:03:00.000-04:00

[All Photos - Country Living]

These last few days I haven't been able to shake the feeling of Fall.

I can feel it in the shortening of the summer nights and the cool, dewy mornings while the house is still quiet. I can feel myself being drawn to all things that bring comfort and coziness.

I find myself pulling out those hearty Autumn recipes and anticipating the spicy smells of fall baking and the rich tastes of favourite soups and stews.

There is just something about Fall - and even, the anticipation of it.

As fall approaches, and so quickly it seems, my tastes change again. I find I'm drawn to more texture and pattern and a richer pallet full of natural accents.

This is a home that was featured in Country Living that lends to all things Fall in my opinion. Caroline Sheeler, the head buyer for Jayson Home & Garden, has perfectly achieved this style in her gorgeous home that just reminds me of Fall.

Enjoy.

Her home is full of texture - clean lines, rough wood, blemished brass and woven carpet.

Her colour pallet is beyond my go-to whites and lend such a sense of boldness to her rooms.

The dark antiques only add to the richness of the rooms.

The additions of natural findings and worn pieces are found all around the house and give each space personality.

This is one of my favourite bathrooms. It's timeless and classic.

Crisp white bead board is a welcomed accent to the rich walls. Her displays of family photos and findings (and even ribbons!) make her house homey and full of character.

The addition of prints and exotic pieces throughout the house are so far from my own personal tastes, but work wonderfully with her decor.

These gorgeous walls are a favourite in this home. They add warmth. The white cabinet in the back is lovely too.

The dark wall colour offsets the coldness of the marble and stainless steel.

And this beautiful front porch with that gorgeous bench. Again, the contrast just makes everything come together so nicely.

Hopefully that provided a little fall inspiration.

I've been so preoccupied this past week that I'm looking forward to sitting down in the coming days and getting started on some Autumn postings. In the meantime, it's back to photographing items for the shop for me! Luckily I've got another pot of coffee on - it's a special blend of mine: Vanilla and Hazelnut beans, freshly ground, with 1/2 tsp. of Pumpkin Spice sprinkled over the grounds per pot.

Autumn bliss.

Out East

2011-08-19T10:15:00.002-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Before I begin, I think it's only fair to warn that this is a long post, full of photos.

We had an amazing trip and the scenery did not disappoint! As a result, selecting only a few to highlight the entire trip, which covered a lot of the Eastern coast, was near impossible.

We took the train from Toronto to Halifax, Nova Scotia (31 long hours with a quick stop over in Montreal), and spent the first night downtown Halifax. We then headed further East, to do the Cabot Trail. On our way back down the trail, we decided to skip over to the neighboring island of PEI. From there, we headed back down to Halifax where we boarded a train the next morning back home.

So, I will give you a moment to make yourself a cup of coffee, before you sit down and browse through. I will try my best to keep the captions short.

Enjoy.

There were so many gorgeous inlets and coves, full of the most beautiful sailboats.

The white shake houses were my favourite. They were everywhere and each gorgeous in it's own way.

This one was a particular favourite. I think it was the porch overlooking the coast.

We made frequent stops to explore beaches while the tides were out.

To me, this was the epitome of Eastern homes. I loved it! It was quite perfect and quaint.

This was where the cottage above was nestled... I know, perfect!

This was from the Cabot Trail, heading down into our campground at Meat Cove, the most Northern tip of Nova Scotia.

Our lovely little cabin at dusk. It was the most amazing place we've stayed I think. It was right at the edge of a cliff, overlooking the ocean. We fell asleep to the sound of the waves and woke up to the most gorgeous sunrises, right off our little front porch.

We did some hiking in the mountains around Meat Cove (you can see out little campground tucked in the background).

We made an impromptu side trip to Prince Edward Island, and I'm so glad we did. It was an hour ferry ride from our original stop. Instead of spending the night in a city with nothing much to offer but accommodations, we got to explore the most beautiful little island, with the reddest beaches, the quaintest homes, and the cutest towns. We spent the night at an inn in the Historic part of Charlottetown. We browsed shops and toured small galleries and walked about before enjoying an amazing dinner.

Despite the rain, we still managed to get out and see everything on foot, with umbrellas in hand.

The following day brought a few stops to old fishing villages, a wharf and even Green Gables, home to the legendary Anne of Green Gables.

I couldn't get enough of the old fishing village.

Next was a local fish market, which was quiet, as all the fisherman were out for the day's catch.

We also did some antiquing along the way, however the amount of space allowed when travelling by train is very limited, and considering we already had our camping gear and luggage with us, I was only able to bring home a few small items. More to come on one in particular later though.

Reclaimed Rustic - The Butter Pat

2011-08-17T13:03:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

It's been a long time since I've posted on any vintage finds I've re-purposed, so I thought I would share how I've been using a little collection of ironstone butter pats that I found at a show this summer.

These are petite little plates, about two inches in diameter, that were at one time used to hold a pat of butter, and was part of a place setting.

They can be found all over, and for fairly cheap, if you really keep your eye out.

First, they make perfect little soap dishes. I have one sitting on my vanity, and they are just the right size for a guest bar.

You could also use one by your kitchen sink for quick access when scrubbing up before dinner.

They make great jewellery holders, especially for small, dainty pieces, and they also keep loose change in one place.

Here, a set of three hold a few office supplies and add some charm to a work space.

They also are a tidy little saucer for used tea bags.

And, if you're feeling very creative, you could always use them as they are intended - as butter pats!

I'm hoping to be able to have my photos from our trip sorted by the end of the week. In the meantime, have a lovely rest of the week.

Clippings and Outdoor Inspirations

2011-08-16T18:17:00.002-04:00

[The Grower's Daughter]

Hello again.

We made it safely back after a fantastic trip out East, and are feeling refreshed, but happy to be back home.

I finally feel like I've got the laundry under control once again, (for now at least!), and as though my house has found some sort of order.

I spent the weekend shopping for some furnishings for Willen's bedroom, and I hope to finally be able to tackle it later this week. I was especially motivated after discovering that September's issue of Country Living was their Makeover Issue - my favourite!

I also spent this afternoon at an auction, something I've missed doing, and am happy to report that I scored a full load of treasures at amazing prices! My garage is reaching it's capacity and I think it's time I haul it out and begin sorting and planning projects for October.

[The Grower's Daughter]

I was happy to come home to my Limelight's in full bloom. Because they are so unbelievably full, I didn't mind clipping a few for our dining room table.

I also spent an unusual amount of time in our yard this past weekend. The mornings have been unusually cool and I've been making the most of them by catching up on some long overdue weeding and tidying of the gardens. I'm ashamed to say they are looking extremely overgrown and wild at the moment.

In the mean time, I've fallen so in love with these few photos of the most lovely outdoor spaces.

My husband longs for a porch. It was his only request when we searched for our first house, and sadly, the only item that didn't get checked off. This one, with it's vines creeping against white wood and gorgeous old flooring, is pretty near perfect.

I'm also very much looking forward to the day we can put up a fence that includes a pretty arbor. And, of course, cover it in Wisteria.

And this. This is everything I'm looking for. A gorgeous hammock, a knitted throw and a good book. I've recently been inspired to read through my Austen collection and I couldn't think of a more suiting place to get lost in the pages of Mansfield Park or Sense and Sensibility (both of which, I've just finished).

All Aboard

2011-08-03T17:02:00.000-04:00

[Windrush Photographic]

This morning, Ryan and I boarded a train to Halifax, Nova Scotia, for a week away, just the two of us.

It's about 31 hours with a quick transfer in Montreal, Quebec.

I've never travelled by rail before, but I must say, it's much more comfortable than I anticipated.

(However, not as luxurious as I had imagined. I blame that on Harry Potter.)

We will be arriving tomorrow evening in Halifax, spending the night at a beautiful old hotel downtown, and from there, camping our way around the Cabot Trail before arriving back in Halifax a week tomorrow.

We're just approaching the station, so have a lovely week!

Bon Soir!

In the Garden: Hydrangeas and A Winner!

2011-08-01T18:32:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Happy Monday.

I hope you all had lovely weekends!

I have been patiently waiting for my Hydrangeas to bloom so I can finally snip a few stems and enjoy them throughout our house. But, they seem to be taking a long time this year. I think it may have something to do with the fact that I may have pruned them a bit far back. I don't know how I got so carried away, but I did. To be honest, I was worried that I would miss out on their most beautiful blooms this year.

But, to my delight, I came home from the lake to find them all in bloom!

One of my varieties, with petite little white blooms, is in full bloom where they are in full sun. The other bushes, my Limelight Hydrangeas, are just starting to show their vibrant lime coloured flowers. I suspect that when we arrive back home next week, they will be beautifully white, especially if it continues to be as hot as it has been these past few days!

These pretty white blooms make the perfect little arrangements for bud vases.

Some of the others are still tight, ensuring I will be able to continue to enjoy them throughout the coming weeks.

The gorgeous flowers on the Limelights. Aren't they such a pretty shade of green. It's so fresh! And, as a bonus, they turn white eventually as the summer goes on, and hten a pinky cream come Autumn. White Hydrangeas are my most favourite.

Pretty little bud vases.

Until I'm able to display the Hydrangeas, our snowballs will have to do, though they are still lovely as well.

And finally, because I know you're waiting so patiently, the winner of the $100.00 gift certificate to the shop of their choice is:

Michele of {PRIMP}!

Congratulations Michele, and thank you all for the lovely comments, and especially all the great feedback on my new kitchen island. Based on what I read, it's found it's new home! I love hearing from you all so much.

True Random Number Generator

Min:

Max:

Result: 13

Quick Kitchen Island

2011-07-29T14:33:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

This is my baking table in my kitchen. Because I have so little counter space, I asked my husband to make a top for an old cabinet that was found in a local barn (it was previously a mauve-pink!).

I painted it a creamy white and kept it rough because I love all the character.

Now, I love this piece, and it fit perfectly underneath a pair of shelves with my canisters on it. However, after time, and a few attempts at bread making, I realized that having my canisters on it limited my amount of workspace. As well, where it was situated was on the opposite side of my kitchen so there was a lot of empty space in between.

One day, on a whim, I decided to pull it out into the middle of the kitchen and see how it looked as an island. I must say, I rather like it. It's so much more functional and it really becomes a great focal point, which distracts you from the rest of the not-yet-touched room.

I wanted to post a few photos to get some feedback. Having the cabinet in the middle does make the whole kitchen feel smaller, but the increase in functionality is so much greater. I, personally, would rather have a smaller, more functional kitchen, than a larger kitchen with lots of wasted space. But that's just me.

Anyway, let me know what you think!

This is the me standing at the island. Behind me is my sink, and my window. (As you can see, in the right of the photo, the stairway going to the basement has yet to be painted!)

This is behind the island. Previously, the cabinet sat tucked under the shelves where the stool is. Through the left is the dining room.

This fabulous stool was picked up the other weekend at the Amish Auction! She was a steal and I couldn't have been happier to take her home. I've been looking for the perfect industrial piece to throw in the mix.

This is the view from dining room as you walk into the kitchen. You can see the sunroom beyond. The stove and sink and fridge are all to the right.

I stored the canisters and found these great jars at Target. I filled them with my sugars and flours instead. I love the look of them and it feels so much more simple.

This is where I moved my collection of ironstone pitcher to, in the dining room. They were previously where the new canisters are.

Home Again

2011-07-27T11:52:00.000-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Hello!

So, we're back from the cottage and feeling as rested and relaxed as ever. As a family, we look forward to our trips up to the lake for months before leaving. It's a week of nothing. We get to spend each day together without a care in the world.

One of my favourite things to do is to bring up stacks of back issues to browse through, as well as any new decor books I've purchased throughout the year. I always end up saving them for when I have enough time to read them cover to cover. And, of course, I always bring a good book or two!

This year my reading included the following:

Fall and Winter back issues of British Country Living.

(Yes, I'm thinking that far ahead!)

Atlanta Bartlett's books Pale and Interesting and At Home with White.

Christina Strutt's Cabbages and Roses; At Home with Country.

Gail Abbots Living with Light; Decorating the Scandinavian Way.

Last month's issues of British Country Living, Country Living and Life:Beautiful.

And for my book, Jane Austen's Mansfield Park.

(Which I couldn't get enough of!)

Needless to say, I had enough reading to keep me occupied for the week!

Honestly, I find that this week alone is the most inspiring week of the year for me. I come home with a million lists of projects to do, things to try, ideas for rooms to tweak, and complete plans for that year's tag sale in the Fall. It makes leaving easier because I'm coming home ready to tackle projects and start getting to work.

Monday was spend browsing through the fabric store, quilting shop, and the paint chips at our local Benjamin Moore shop in town. I came home with enough supplies to tackle a few of my projects for the fall.

Yesterday, I spent the day painting furniture. I repainted an old hutch, which is almost done and ready to be posted on, and I repainted my dining room table, as well as all of my living room end tables. I found a new shade of cream that I'm in love with; French Canvas by Benjamin Moore. It's a slightly grayish cream that really does look like aged canvas. I love it!

So, I've got lots to keep my occupied.

Here are a few photos of the family cottage. It's my in laws and they graciously let us all use it all summer long. It's up in Northern Quebec, far enough away from all things busy, and tucked away in Pike Bay. It has all the comforts of a home; running water and hydro, however, this past week, a rough storm took out the power and water for the first couple days!

Have a lovely week and don't forget to enter the giveaway before August 1st!

The hall.

The bedroom. It's the only one in the cottage, but all of the couches pull out, making room for additional guests.

The dining area and kitchen. It's half of the great area. The other half is the living area. Each wall has large windows and a main sliding door to the back deck which overlooks the bay. The whole area is open and airy and bright.

The back deck, just out of the great area. The cottage is tucked in a hill and the deck has the most gorgeous view of the entire bay.

The front of the cottage has a pair of Adirondack chairs that are in the perfect spot for watching the sunset with a coffee on the other side of the island. Though it's not technically an island, it's a large bay so it seems like the whole area is surrounded by water.

There are so many beautiful birds to hear and see, especially the loons that come through the bay, sometimes in groups as large as 35!

For more photos of the cottage, you can head to this older post.

http://thegrowersdaughter.blogspot.com/2010/08/lazy-days.html

Goodbye

2011-07-17T04:33:00.000-04:00

[via Postcards and Pretties]

So, it's 4:30am and we're all packed (though our truck doesn't look near as cozy as this!), and ready to go.

Have a lovely week and I will see you all after next weekend!

Off To The Lake

2011-07-15T11:51:00.000-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Today is one of my favourite kind of days: It's a list-making, bag-packing, last-minute-shopping kind of day.

Tonight my husband and I have a lovely work dinner at Niagara Falls, then tomorrow will be spent at the annual Amish Auction near Milton, an event where I usually come home with lots of amazing finds. Then we'll be waking up before the sun and heading up to the cottage for the next week.

We are so looking forward to a week of nothing.

So, have a lovely week and I'll be back with photos when I return!

Our family's cottage is up in Northern Quebec, just beyond the Ontario border, about 6 hours away.

Carrot-Bran Muffins with Dates

2011-07-12T11:47:00.000-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

In the past month, I have barely baked a thing. Unless it's being brought with me somewhere, I just can't. I've been attempting to fulfill my resolutions to eat healthier and be more active, and that just doesn't happen with a batch of delicious chocolate brownies tempting me all day.

This past week, however, I have been spending a lot of time researching and browsing through my cookbooks. I've tested a few favourite recipes with simple substitutions like using whole grains, and omitting a lot of the excess sugar and fat. So far, I've been fairly impressed with the results.

Since we'll be heading to the Lake for a while this weekend, I've been freezing some baking here and there for when we're away. There's nothing like a coffee and something sweet on the dock early in the morning.

Here is a recipe I found from a Weight Watchers cookbook for a version of carrot muffins. I was really happy with these, as they came out moist and delicious.

Carrot-Bran Muffins with Dates

3/4 c. white flour

3/4 c. whole wheat flour

1/2 c. unprocessed wheat bran

1 tbsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. ground allspice

1 c. unsweetened pineapple juice

1/4 c. canola oil

1/4 c. brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

1 large egg white

2 small carrots, shredded, about 1 c.

1/4 c. pitted dates, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a standard muffin tin with paper cups.

Whisk together flours, bran, baking powder, baking soda and allspice in a large bowl. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together juice, oil, sugar, egg and white.

Add wet ingredients to dry and stir only until flour mixture is moistened. Stir in carrots and dates.

Divide batter evenly among cups. Bake until a tester comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Let cool for about five minutes before removing from pan to cool completely.

For anyone interested in the points value of these, it's only 4 (in comparison, a fast food carrot muffin is 10!).

Enjoy!

I love the look of farm fresh eggs, these are from my Aunts farm not too far from our place.

Willen thought we were having a little tea party. He just climbed right up on the chair and started drinking my tea!

PS. I picked up a set of four of those pretty ironstone cups from a flea this weekend. They were disgusting and buried in piles of old dishes, rusty and full of old nails, but for $1 they cleaned up perfectly!

A 1st Anniversary Giveaway!

2011-07-11T15:05:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! I hope you all had a lovely weekend.

I couldn`t be happier to announce that this past weekend marked a year of blogging.

I figured I would celebrate with a giveaway!

So, I began to think. What should I give away?

After much thought, I knew.

There are too many fabulously talented Etsy and online shops out there for me to pick just one. I'm sure many of you have a project (or 10), that you are working on - things to sew, rooms to decorate. And, finally, I'm fairly certain that each and every one of you wouldn't mind a little retail therapy.

So, the giveaway?

The winner, to be announced on August 1st, will enjoy a $100 gift certificate to any Etsy shop or online shop of their choice.*

As always, there are a few simple ways to enter, each of which is an extra chance at winning.

1 - Follow The Grower's Daughter if you aren't doing so already.
2 - Link the giveaway to your blog with the graphic above.
3 - Post about it on your social networking sites - each one is a different chance to win.
4 - Let me know which lovely shop you would spend the money at, and what you'd buy!

All entries must be submitted before 12 am on August 1st.

Leave a separate comment for each entry, and be sure to include a contact e-mail if your profile doesn't link up to one already, or if you post anonymously!

* The gift certificate can be to any Etsy shop, or online store, as approved by myself upon drawing at random.
Please note that some shops may not offer gift certificates.

Hopefully that made your Monday a little better.

Have a lovely week and good luck!

Flea Market Wish List

2011-07-08T09:32:00.001-04:00

One - This stunning farmers market sign. I want this in my kitchen! It's perfect!

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

I had previously shown you my two favourite booths at Christie's Antique Show a while back, but I wanted to share a few of my most favourite finds that we're throughout the show.

If I had my way, and an appropriate size truck, I would most definitely have come home with each of these stunning pieces.

Can you believe it's Friday already?

I'm off to pick out a lovely shade of white for my dining room hutch (more on that to come later), and then I think I may spend some time with my sewing machine this afternoon.

Have a lovely weekend!

PS. I have a little announcement this weekend, possibly regarding a one year anniversary, and maybe also including a giveaway of sorts.... Check back later for more on those very vague hints.

Maria

Two - This collection of jadeite, or even a just a few pieces of it. This is something I've always been drawn to, but am too afraid to purchase because I know it will become one of the those obsessive collections that grows and grows, and quite frankly, I just don't have the space for another collection!

Three - I really love this cupboard. I also really love those vintage pins. They would suit Willen's room.

Four - The charming bench. It was just in such delicate condition, which is too bad, because it would make the perfect bench for a farm table, or in a gorgeous hallway, or maybe even at the end of a bed.

Five - And finally, this pair of doors. I know! The price tag on them was so high I think I thought for a moment I was cross-eyed and seeing a few extra zeros. I wasn't. So they stayed.

How gorgeous are they?

Inspirations - The Front Entrance

2011-07-06T10:05:00.001-04:00

[Unknown]

Here are some lovely inspirational front entrances. Your guests walk through this room in your house first, and it's been said that your front entrance is the first impression of your home.

I desperately hope that's not true as mine currently sits in it's dark and laminate state, still near the bottom of my to-do list. Oh well. In the mean time, these are some beautifully bright ones that maybe mine can someday aspire to.

[Unknown]

[Skona Hem]

[House to Home]

[KML Design]

The Bedside Table

2011-07-04T08:53:00.002-04:00

[Atlanta Bartlett]

I have been searching, for what seems like forever, for the perfect night stand for our master bedroom, and am still at a loss.

It doesn't have to be a table per say, it could be a few vintage suitcases stacked together, or a charming French bistro chair, or even a simple and elegant metal table like the gorgeous one above. I'm not picky... really, I'm not!

I'm looking for something to compliment our espresso coloured bed set, which is quite simple, but rather large. I think that's my biggest problem. Our bed is high. It's really hard to find a piece with enough presence to stand beside our bed, but small enough to fit in the space that's between our bed and the door.

So ladies, I need some ideas. What are you all creatively using as your bedside tables?

--------------------------

I should probably add that my husband informed me once that I could use the one that came with the set. I just laughed. One day he will learn.

I hope you all had lovely long weekends.

Happy Monday Girls!

PS. Just a reminder that Tracey of French Larkspur, is still hosting her lovely Cabbages and Roses giveaway. You can still enter here before midnight tonight!

Unexpected Finds

2011-06-29T18:02:00.002-04:00

[The Grower's Daughter]

I promised my son that today we would spend the whole day, just him and mummy, doing fun things.

We drove out to water and walked along the beach together, skipping stones and searching for bits of driftwood. From there we went out for lunch, just the two of us and I got to enjoy his constant chatter while we sipped our chocolate milks. Before heading home, we made our way to the Port and rode the old Merry-Go-Round. It was a perfectly lovely afternoon.

I did however, manage to sneak in one special thing for me. Some of the best local Antique shops are in that area, and I could help but quickly browse one of the larger malls while he was still asleep. I was through it fairly quickly, as he was weighing down my arm, fast asleep. I came home with three great finds that I was super excited about.

One - A Beatrix Potter book that I'm missing from my series in beautiful condition.

Two - A set of three ironstone plates with a pretty edge to hang in my dining room.

Three (and my favourite!) - A lovely little Westclox clock in cream with pretty brownish black hands and numbers. It works perfectly and was only $18! It will be perfect for my bed side table once I get around to finishing our master bedroom.

I hope you are all having a lovely week, and are looking forward to a much needed long weekend!

All Things Bright and Beautiful

2011-06-27T10:31:00.000-04:00

[All Photos - Country Living]

I know that Monday mornings can tend to be looked down upon, as they, for most people, signal the end of a relaxing weekend, and the beginning of a busy work week.

For me however, this particular Monday has brought with it a sense of expectancy and a desire for order.

I was browsing through these few images this morning and I couldn't help but find the motivation I needed to pick up my cleaning bucket, and spend the day puttering around our house, "fluffing our nest" as so many other bloggers so cleverly put it. Each room is bright and beautiful and clean - just what I'm craving this morning.

I hope you find a sense of joy in a bright new week, brimming with possibilities and excitement.

Happy Monday girls. Isn't it a great day today?

It's A Small World

2011-06-24T16:49:00.000-04:00

[Country Sampler]

[All other photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Hello ladies. Happy Friday. I'm going to fairly warn you that this post is going to be a bit lengthy, as I have a bit of a long story to share with you. So, go make yourselves a cup of coffee and settle in... It's a good one.

How many of you out there recognize the photo above? Does it look familiar to you? If not, remember this post? How about now?

So, a little while ago, I shared with you photos of a house I had stumbled upon and ~~stalked~~ photographed. I loved it so much, I had to show it to you. I mean, no one would ever know right? Wrong.

Out of nowhere, a couple of weeks ago, I got an e-mail from the owner. Yes, the owner. She had come across the post and wanted to thank me for the comments. Well, you could imagine my surprise. I mean, I never thought anyone would know the house! It's not like it's in the most obvious location, and the majority of my readers are no where near here, so who in the world, would ever recognize this one little house? She did.

Actually a few people did! I got 2 other e-mails later from readers who knew her because of her booth at a local Antiques Mall. So she was a dealer after all! I knew it!

But, the story gets even more interesting. Remember the post I did on the booth Feathers from the Christie Antique Show (see here)? I mentioned in the post that there where two booths that where my favourite. I did a post on one of them already (Feathers) and the second was still to come.

Well, who should be the super talented owner of the second booth, but none other than the same lady who owns this house!

Here are a few shots from Kim's lovely booth Tattered and Torn. She's a vendor at the show, but she also has a regular place at the Southworks Antiques Mall. If you are anywhere near Cambridge, please check her out. I promise, it's worth the trip! I mean if Sarah Richardson shops her booth, you know it has to be good.

Her booth was filled with the most gorgeous pieces. It's so rare to find a booth that is so full of every thing I love. She had gorgeous old grainsack, and the largest collection of ironstone of all the booths. She had charming rustic pieces, and the most beautifully upholstered chairs. I was so excited. I really did want to talk to her so bad, but the booth was so crowded with viewers and customers that I didn't want to waste her time. So, you can imagine how happy I was so have had the chance to still be introduced to her after all.

I don't know about you, but I can't wait to see what she does with her next house!

Oh, and the story doesn't end there! It gets better...

So remember how I mentioned that I wanted to run up, knock on her door and beg for a tour of the inside? Well, unfortunately, since then, she's moved onto another big project and the house has been sold. But, while browsing through some old inspiration binders the other night, I came across an article called Diamond in the Rough. It was from the November 2010 issue of Country Sampler. Guess who's house was featured? Yep. Hers.

Talk about a small world. Seriously. I have been so excited to share this story! Only you ladies can fully appreciate just how crazy each part is.

So, if you want to see a few photos of the inside, which I know you will want to do, then head over here and view a few extras from the shoot!

Now, I know it was a bit of a lengthy post. But wasn't it worth it?

I hope you all have lovely weekends!

Next Project

2011-06-18T12:34:00.000-04:00

[Serena and Lily]

Can you guess which room I'm about to tackle as my next project?

.....

I figured that since my baby boy is now 2, it's time for him to have a big boy room. I'm actually excited to get started on it, as I've been collecting bits of decor for quite some time now!

Have a lovely weekend! I just came in from the garden as it's the perfect day - sunny and warm, but with a nice breeze that makes it gorgeous in the shade.

Happy 2nd Birthday

2011-06-15T22:37:00.000-04:00

[The Grower's Daughter]

Willen, seconds after he was born, all fresh and new and perfect.

Two years ago today, my husband and I got to meet our baby boy for the first time, and from that moment on, our lives have never been the same.

Happy 2nd Birthday Willen.

Meet Oliver

2011-06-14T12:46:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

It's a well known fact that anyone who frequents auctions will, eventually, come home with a find that they most definitely didn't need, or perhaps even want, but somehow, ended up purchasing. For some of us, it's an awful modern painting that was bought with the hope of beginning a collection of artwork, and will, for years to come, remain collecting dust in our attic. For others, perhaps we purchased a massive lot of something which seemed like a steal at the time, but is quickly looking like it may be given out next year at Halloween.

For me it was neither a painting, nor a lot of unnecessary items.

Meet Oliver.

This handsome Miniature Schnauzer is 5 months old and possibly the last thing I needed to come home with. But, somehow, I stumbled across him and was instantly attached.

I wasn't as smitten with his more dominant brother, who wanted to be the center of attention, nor was I as taken by his mischievous brother who cared only for digging and chewing his way out of their crate. There was, however, something about this runt of the litter who was curled up in a ball, sleeping in the corner, who quietly came over to be pet and sat contently, that stole my heart. After a few calls to my unsuspecting husband, he was ours.

I really don't know what I was thinking, but somehow, I missed most of the furniture, skipped the implements and really couldn't have been happier with my find. Luckily, I purchased a small lot of ironstone (rare for a sale of this sort), which was up on the block before I met him. It turned out the be a successful day after all!

To Market, To Market

2011-06-10T10:59:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

Last night, just as the heat seemed to be lifting, and the night began to cool off, my parents popped in to take us down to the market in town. Because it's a smaller market, it's held on Thursday nights in town square. I don't mind, because it means I can attend a larger one in the city on Saturday mornings.

I was excited that our flower stand had a small pail of peonies for sale for the first time this season, so I took a couple bunches home with me, along with a pint of the season's first strawberries. Fresh picked local strawberries, all sun-ripened and sweet are one of my favourite things!

Here are a few other lovely stands that I like to frequent.

Cheesy Guys - They carry an assortment of the best local cheeses, including local cheese curds that are so fresh they still squeak! They've quickly become one of my favorite treats.

Howell's Family Farm Fudge. Yum. So far I've just sampled their delicious fudge because I don't dare bring any home for fear of it not even making it to the door.

The Herb Lady. She always carries an assortment of local, organic herbs.

And, this ladies man - The Chocolate Expressions booth. His accent is as thick as his caramel and I think he truly believes that chocolate is the way to any woman's heart. Though who could blame him, I mean even I get a little giddy when he's handing me a pretzel dipped in caramel, coated in nuts and drizzled with chocolate. Seriously.

A lovely assortment of peonies in various shades of pink from the Flower Man. Gorgeous.

I'm off to clean my house, and get things ready for a trip to an Auction a few hours away tomorrow. It'll be a super early morning, but I'm expecting to come home with a truck full of treasures!

Happy Friday girls and have a lovely weekend!

Wedding Two - Dean and Laura

2011-06-08T14:57:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter]

The second wedding we attended this past weekend was held in the most gorgeous of settings - the woods.

I have to hand it to the bride for being able to pull off such a feat. Honestly, with the rain we've been getting, I would have been a nervous wreck. This wasn't just any outdoor wedding. We were up the side of the escarpment in the middle of the woods. It had stormed all morning and by the time we were getting ready for the evening ceremony, we were convinced they would have found us another venue. But, upon arriving we were ushered up the winding hill, into the coziest of spots.

The rain did hold off for the rest of the evening, and even the mosquito's seemed to stay at bay. The ceremony was followed by a reception at the camp mess house and shortly there after were enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing.

It really turned out to be the a perfectly intimate wedding and a lovely night out.

Congratulations Dean and Laura!

The bride, with her beautifully natural bouquet and elegant dress, was escorted by her father up the path.

They exchanged rings and vows on the simple wooden platform surrounded by moss covered boulders and a plain wooden cross.

We all sat on old wooden benches tucked into the side of the hill. The view surrounding us was breathtaking. Everything was slightly damp and earthy and the birds were singing happily. The forest was lush and green thanks to the rain that morning.

We were ushered out by a guitarist who lead us all back down towards the reception.

The bride and groom.

The entire ceremony was almost completely natural with the exception of some white covers for the benches and a couple pretty baskets of flowers.

As we got to the bottom of the hill, we crossed a small wooden bridge, over a small creek.

The car the bride arrived in.

And, the reception. I thought this old mess hall made a fabulous venue. I especially loved the old lights! They roasted a pig on a spit and we enjoyed an assortment of salads, meat and fresh breads for dinner, as well as cupcakes for dessert. Each guest brought a bottle of Peach Chardonnay, made by the bride, home as a favour. Guests were able to lodge in the camp cabins for the night, and were invited to join the bride and groom for breakfast the next morning.

Wedding One - Rebecca and Nathan

2011-06-06T10:30:00.001-04:00

[All Photos - The Grower's Daughter, and Family]

As promised, here are a few photos from our first wedding, my sister's, this past Friday.

I was in the wedding party, and when I wasn't busy with pictures and other duties, I was styling the set up for the reception which took place in the same barn afterwards. It was so busy that I just didn't have time to take as many photos as I would have liked, but I was busy with more important things!

It was quite literally the perfect day. The weather was as good as it could possibly be and everything went as planned and looked gorgeous. Really, the photos don't nearly do it justice.

Congratulations Rebecca and Nathan!

She was the most stunning bride in her antique white dress that was simple and elegant. Her veil was trimmed in pretty lace and she wore a simple strand of pearls. Isn't she gorgeous?

She carried a simple bouquet of luscious cream and soft pink peonies tied with lace.

This was the reception in the barn. There was awful fluorescent lights (hence the horrible lighting in the photos), so we hung strands of garden party lights which made the ambiance so romantic.

The tables were simple with cream tablecloths, truffle brown napkins and a burlap table runner. The guests got homemade biscotti as a favour, which was made by my mom.

We stenciled the table runners with a monogram which really personalized them.

The front of the barn was decorated with old sap buckets full of white Hydrangeas and cream Garden Roses, as well as huge bundles of curly willow.

I used old windows as place settings and my chalkboards to write out the menus for the evening.

This was the entrance she walked through during the ceremony, and then all of us again later for the reception.

Old mason jars with zinc lids were filled with peonies and placed around the barn, on tables and in the windows which made the whole barn smell so lovely.

Our bouquets - cream Antique Garden Roses.

The head table was decorated with all of my old crates and ironstone, carriers and anything else I had stored in my garage!

I made chocolate and vanilla cupcakes for dessert, which matched the cream and brown colours.

As well, I did her wedding cake. It's a vanilla bean cake with vanilla buttercream and a chocolate truffle filling between one layer and a Robin's egg blue buttercream filling between the other layer.

And because I couldn't resist - my son. He was the ring bearer and he was just the most handsome little guy ever! I was so proud.

They were the happiest couple, and really are the perfect pair.