May Day

May Day Baskets

Traditionally celebrated on May 1, May Day is a romantic and flower-filled jubilation. A favorite ritual of this spring holiday is the May Day Basket. The paper cone, filled with candy and flowers, is left on a neighbor's doorknob. If the giver of the basket is caught in the act, a kiss is exchanged.

These May Day baskets are easy to make. Following a template (see below), cut decorative scrapbooking paper and carefully hot glue the edges together to form a perfect cone.

Thread ivory ribbon through punched side holes. Knot or glue the ribbon ends to secure. Attach antique lace, bows, and ephemera for beautiful embellishments.

To delight your recipient, fill the basket with excelsior and old-fashioned candies.

Happy May Day!


P.S. Cone template can be found at http://www.skiptomylou.org/2008/04/27/may-day/

Butterfly Eggs

Butterfly Eggs

Decorating Easter eggs is a lovely springtime tradition that can be as much fun for adults as it is for children.

To make these beautiful butterfly eggs (in less than an hour) start by placing a dozen eggs in a mini muffin tin so they won't wobble. Then bake the eggs for thirty minutes in a 325 degree oven.  Soak immediately in an ice bath.




Use brown eggs for a natural look. You won't even need to dye them.

Apply temporary butterfly tattoos carefully, following the package instructions.

For an unusual and natural centerpiece, enclose the eggs inside an apothecary jar on a bed of mosses.

Happy Easter, All!

P. S. For additional information, visit  http://simplysublime.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/03/tattooed-easter-eggs.html and http://www.theburlapbag.com/2012/03/make-hard-boiled-eggs-in-the-oven/