Two Lovely 'Lady' Reads

One is tiny, one is big ... both are just delightful!

Vintage Notions: An Inspirational Guide to Needlework, Cooking, Sewing, Fashion and Fun ... is a book I take out from the library every so often. Eventually I will buy it, I think, as I'm only allowed to keep it for two weeks at a time! It's a thick, hardcover book, filled with old-fashioned illustrations and essays on all matters of homekeeping and femininity. Written for the woman of the 1920's (but completely enjoyable no matter the age), the book is divided by seasons, and a wide range of topics are addressed. Topics include: "The Secrets of a Perfect Pie," "Hats for the Season," "Planning Meals without Meat," "Making a Summer Purse," "The Festive Touch at Yuletide," and "The Well Dressed Table," to name just a few.

There's a good deal of information about sewing and needlework - particularly clothesmaking - and many patterns are included. And sprinkled throughout are feel-good, can-do messages, all set against a most charming design.

A quote I love is this ...

"Cultivate a sense of appreciation. Love your work, trust your work, keep in touch with today. Teach yourself to be practical, up-to-date and sensible. You cannot fail." ~ Henry van Dyke

Now, Apronisms: Pocket Wisdom for Every Day ... was an impulse buy at Amazon. It's a tiny little book - it fits in your palm! - but chock-full of sweetness and good sense. There are many colorful pages and cheerful thoughts and lots and lots of pretty aprons. It's filled with tips and funny little theories on life.

I liked this quote:

"Change the dishtowel. Hang a fresh dishtowel and your kitchen will look neater and cleaner, even when it isn't! Note the satisfaction you feel when draping an ironed towel on the oven door. Vintage tea towels. Embroidered beauties. Simple renewal."

{And while we're on the subject of aprons, here is a long-ago post I did on my apron - or my apron for the day. You know, that might be a nice Lenten project ~ making a 'spring cleaning' apron. Hmmm ... }

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Well, Happy Friday, my friends! Today begins the Great Backyard Bird Count and also, this Sunday brings National Chocolate Mint Day. (Yes, I have plans for both!) Monday is President's Day and - I can hardly believe it - this week we begin Lent! Has time ever flown this winter ...

And I'm happy to report Earlybird is feeling MUCH better this morning. It seems he's past the worst of it ~ now for some rest and rehydration. (And perhaps a little fresh air, too - it's supposed to be 50 degrees here today!)

I may be back later today with some Friday Felines ... I have some cute photos saved up. But we'll see what the day brings. I do hope the day brings you, my friends, much joy and good health. 

And thanks for stopping by ... I'll see you again very soon!

❤

Comments

[Dawn]

Mary, thank you for the suggestion ~ I've requested a copy at my library. All copies are out at the moment, but I look forward to reading it once it's in!

Blessings,
~ Dawn

[Mary]

Hi Dawn,

Thank you for sharing both these books. They sound so delightful. I am going to look for them in my local library.

One book I want to share with you that I think you will love is titled "An Everlasting Meal: Cooking with Economy and Grace" by Tamar Adler. I just love her philosophy on cooking.

She writes more about food in general rather than specific recipes but the ideas she provides on how to cook are just wonderful.

Love,
Mary

[Dawn]

Ooh, Gill, what a LOVELY link! Thank you for sharing it ... I can't wait to check it thoroughly later today! :D

(Penny ~ how cool, an albino robin! Did you get a picture? Lol, that's always my first thought ...)

Blessings, all! (Enjoy the DA book, Kristie!)
~ Dawn

[Penny]

What a fun post - books, chocolate, birds... ah... that's the life!

We had a partial albino robin in our yard today - how appropriate for the GBBC!

I'm glad EB is better, and thank you to Gill for the link - that's going to be a fun one!

[Gill]

http://star-spangledheart.blogspot.com/2012/02/lady-ediths-closet-flower-show-dress.html

Hello Dawn, I don't know if you have seen this blog which has some interesting posts on Downton dresses. I just found it by chance and thought of you :) Gill.

[Kristie]

Ooo! I had been eyeing Vintage Notions, but now I'm definately interested. My Downton Abbey book came yesterday, so you'll know where I'll be!!!
Enjoy!