Wednesday, November 30, 2011

The Charm of The Old Days

Couple at Counter of Ice Cream Parlor





Looking at pictures of American society from previous generations makes me nostalgic for the old days. These can be any days from the past that are precious, or charming, or pleasant.

Do you remember when people would get all dressed up to go to the store? Or when a visitor would come by the house, and the hostess was already dressed nicely? Girls would get their sweater and take a nice leisurely walk to visit with their guest. They were un-hurried and enjoyed the fresh air without the distractions of modern technology that we, of this generation, have so much trouble trying to control.

These old- day- pictures make me want to find some sewing patterns and make my own pretty clothes. These are classic items one cannot find in the stores anymore.

I also want to get a soda from the soda fountain! Or take a walk through the center of town, stopping at the library for a bit, or getting an ice cream with a friend.

The patience of the old days is astounding. There was not the constant rush to do it all.  Moms were generally at home and available for any crisis that came up.  These mothers were not overtaxed with too many commitments, or too many projects. They were the slow-paced, enjoy- the- daily- life kind of Mothers who had the energy and will to help when the need arose.

Children who came home to such a place, where Mother was relaxed and happy, were the luckiest children on earth.

I wonder if we can take a little of yesteryear's charm and create some modern nostalgia for the next generation?

Blessings
Mrs. White

Stories from my Home - When Mother Bakes.

The $500 question - Domestic Incentives.

A cozy room - The Purple Parlour.






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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Cranberry Naturals Juice - Giveaway - 5 winners

Product - 64 oz. bottle of Cranberry Naturals Juice

Company - Old Orchard

I love cranberry juice. I am from Massachusetts and frequently drove past Cranberry bogs near Cape Cod.

Old Orchard offers a variety of cranberry juice blends. I think my favorite is Cranberry / Grape, but Cranberry / Raspberry is also delicious.

They have one called Cranberry / Blueberry that I haven't tried yet, but I would love to!

Quick Facts:

Cranberry Naturals are only 70 calories per serving. It is sweetened with a blend of Truvia and real sugar.   The juice is 100% natural and has 40% less sugar than other brands.

A Recipe:

I like to mix ginger ale with cranberry/ grape juice.  I use about 1/2 cup of ginger ale with 1/4 a cup of cranberry/ grape juice.  This is especially delicious with ice cubes and a straw!


The Giveaway:

How would you like a chance to win two coupons for 64 oz. bottles of Cranberry Naturals Juice Cocktail? Five winners will receive a total of two coupons each.  This is a great beverage for holiday entertaining.

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment.

For additional Entries:


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5
. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

6. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

7. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.


*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*



Five random winners we be selected on Thursday, December 1, 2011. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winners within 48 hours, alternate winners will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

This contest is closed. The winners are:


1. Debra

2. Rhonda
3. Jennifer
4. The Crazy Mom
5. Jeanine


*Disclosure - I received this product for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.





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The Well - Why are so many still thirsty - 3 book giveaway

Book - The Well: Why Are So Many Still Thirsty?

Author - Mark Hall, Pastor and Lead Singer of Casting Crowns.

Publisher - Zondervan.

Price - $14.99

This book consists of 10 intense chapters.  Each one starts with a riveting, real -life story that seriously wakes you up.

The Well, is all about helping lead us to a satisfying and eternal perspective. Mark will show you how to stop living a dry, empty life, and teach you how to find a way to permanently quench your spiritual thirst.

There is a strong message coming through every page, along with a corresponding Biblical example.  Mark shares a little about his own life, somehow easily weaving it through each chapter.

Overall, the book is fascinating and will captivate the reader. It would be perfect for handing out to family and friends.

The Giveaway:

How would you like a chance to win three copies of "The Well?" One winner will receive a total of three copies of this book. You can keep one for yourself and give the rest away as gifts to family and friends.

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment.

For additional Entries:


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5
. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

6. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

7. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.


*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*



One random winner we be selected on Thursday, December 1, 2011. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

This contest is closed. The winner is - Heidi


*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.





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Did you Clean Today?

Young Woman Attending to Her Housework with a Dust Mop





I have been very sidetracked lately. I had every intention of getting up and getting right to my housework, but other things took my attention.

Sometimes I feel like a toddler in a department store, always wandering around looking at all the exciting things and having trouble focusing on what I am supposed to be doing, or where I am supposed to be.

Today, I have to make an extra effort to get right to work on my dishes, laundry, vacuuming and sweeping. I also have to bake and organize.

But first I shall have a little tea.

Blessings
Mrs. White

I need to remember this one- What Time Does Your Shift Start?

Comfort for - A Mother of Sinners.

My favorite, cozy room - The Purple Parlour.






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Not a Fan - by Kyle Idleman - 3 book giveaway

Book - Not a Fan: Becoming a Completely Committed Follower of Jesus

Author - Kyle Idleman

Publisher - Zondervan

Price - $14.99



I never heard of "Christian merchandise" or a "Christian bookstore" until I was married with children of my own. Growing up, there was really no such thing as bumper stickers with a message, or T-Shirts with "follow Jesus" slogans. The rise of marketing Christianity is shocking.

In "Not A Fan," Kyle reaches out to the generation where being a Christian is popular, complete with material goods, and all the right words.  This has a tendency to Mask regeneration and a truly committed life to Scripture.

As I read, I felt like a neutral observer, not realizing what has been happening in Christian culture.   I was so impressed with this book, I even folded several pages for later reference.

The chapters include:

1. D.T.R (Define the Relationship).
2. A Decision or a Commitment?
3. Knowledge about him or intimacy with him?
4. One of many or your one and only?
5. Following Jesus or following the rules?
6. Self-improved or spirit-empowered.
7. The relationship details.
8. Anyone - an open invitation.
9. Come after me - a passionate pursuit.
10. Deny - a total surrender
11. Take up your cross daily - an everyday death.
12. Wherever. What about there?
13. Whenever. What about now?
14. Whatever. What about that?


Kyle explains each concept with personal and cultural stories. This makes each point clear and straightforward.   You'll also find several brief "not a fan" stories by various people. Overall, this is an enlightening, inspiring book.


The Giveaway:

How would you like a chance to win three copies of "Not a Fan?"  One winner will receive a total of three copies of this book. You can keep one for yourself and give the rest away as gifts to family and friends. To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment.


For additional Entries:


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5
. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

6. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

7. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.


*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*


One random winner we be selected on Thursday, December 1, 2011. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

This contest is closed. The winner is - Laura Lane


*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.





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Monday, November 28, 2011

A Mother's Comfort

Comfort Doll





The greatest blessing in the world is a Mother's comfort of her children. It is an instinct in us, since we were little girls taking care of our dolls.

The intense love of a Mother for her children helps provoke an outpouring of prayers of protection for their lives.

We Live for Them, and there is nothing more important on this earth.

Blessings
Mrs. White


Come Home, my precious beloveds - Childhood Home as the Nursery.

We Have to Keep Going - Housekeeping Amidst Family Drama.






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Saturday, November 26, 2011

The Mission House

Cottage in a Landscape, Circa 1871




A Wise Old Mother thought of her house as a mission. She craved the idea of being a missionary for the Lord. So she set about, making preparations.

First, she got rid of most of her worldly goods. She did not want to be overly attached to them, or tied - down by caring for them. She sold what she could, just like the Immigrants sold their household items to pay for their trip to a new land. Well, perhaps this mother took the money to pay off a few little debts, or maybe she gave it to charity.

Second, She organized her daily duties. She wanted to have a list of responsibilities. It was a like a job description for running the mission. These are some of the items on her list:

Morning tasks-
1. Chapel. (This consisted of Bible reading, prayer and the signing of hymns)
2. Prepare breakfast.
3. Clean kitchen.
4. Tidy parlour.
5. Handle correspondence and administrative duties.

Afternoon tasks -
1. Prepare Lunch.
2. Clean kitchen.
3. Do the household laundry.
4. Prayer and Rest.

Evening tasks -
1. Prepare Dinner.
2. Clean kitchen.
3. Chapel (This consisted of Bible reading, prayer and hymns.)

In the midst of all her daily work, she had to greet and welcome guests. She was to work right alongside them. Some of her guests found great delight in the daily labors of the mission house. They were able to talk with her, pray with her, and enjoy a bit of respite from the world.

She also had boarders to care for. These were of all ages, from babies to adults. She had full charge of their care and was quite busy with all their concerns and needs. She found this to be exhausting, but greatly rewarding. She was honored with the "burden," and felt privileged to have them staying with her.

At other times of the day, she would be called away on a mission errand. She was to dress accordingly, knowing she represented the mission house. She had to be an ambassador of that important work and had to be pleasant to all she met. She had grace and dignity and an incredibly strong spirit.

Sometimes, she would walk the grounds of the mission house and enjoy some peaceful quiet, alone with the Lord.  This made up for when her time with the Lord was an almost never-ending conversation with the Master of the Mission house - These were prayers and thanksgivings and praises that could not be uttered because of the overflowing joy in her heart.

Last of all, she worked through weariness and became stronger. She worked even when no visible results came from her efforts. She worked and worked and worked, at the Mission House, and made it a shining example of a resting place for weary souls.

But the secret to her motivation, was one quiet morning, as she read this dear quote from a group of "real" missionaries, as they struggled to do God's work in foreign lands:

"O Lord," they had prayed, "Send revival. . and let it start in me."

Blessings
Mrs. White





When Life Gets Busy - Cooking While Holding a Bible.

I want to be - Like the Mothers Before Me.

Mothers and Homemakers, Let us not be - The Last Witness of An Era.







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Friday, November 25, 2011

Not Shopping

Woman Has Been Very Busy Shopping So Much So That Her Helper is Hidden Under a Pile of Parcels




It is Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Many people, all over the U.S. are shopping today.. . Except me. (smiles)

I am home, cleaning, and remembering what a wonderful Holiday we had yesterday.  

I don't think I have ever shopped on Black Friday. I love hearing about all the treasures others are able to find, and about how much fun they are having, but I really would rather stay home. I don't even want to shop online, or by phone.  I know, that is so un-American of me. But I'd rather not spend any money. I just don't need anything right now.

So I am busy with my decorating and homemaking tasks.  It will be a restful, happy day at home.

Later, I will hear about the shopping feats of others. I will be delighted for them.  Just like a Grandma who sits at home, resting, eagerly waiting for when the family comes back home. .  . Waiting for them to tell her about their adventures in the world.

I will have some hot, homemade beef stew waiting for them. The fire will be blazing in the wood stove. And Mama will be here, as happy and content as ever.


Blessings
Mrs. White

Vintage Advice - Cooking for Mister.

Grateful for - The Housewife Contract.

Delightful Homekeeping - A Break That is Deserved.







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Winner of the Shabby Apple Dress

Good Morning!

I had so much fun notifying the winner of this lovely dress! (I want one of these for myself! - smiles)

First I want to thank Shabby Apple for sponsoring this giveaway. I am very grateful and I am sure my readers were excited with the prospet of winning one of your beautiful dresses!

The Shabby Apple online boutique is a great resource for finding pretty clothes and accessories for the classy housewife! Get 10% off your order, with this gift code:  legacy10off


Now for the winner of "The Ballerina" dress -

Cristi!!

She has already been contacted and will receive her prize soon.

Thank you all so much for entering!

Blessings
Mrs. White





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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

A Cold House on a Winter Day

Lighting the Stove, 1886


I have been reading from the old Little House on the Prairie books. I am amazed by the way they lived in the 1800's. Imagine the house being cold until someone starts a fire in the wood stove.  Modern heat allows  many of us to set a temperature on the dial, to maintain a steady stream of heat throughout the day and night.

In our old colonial house, we have a wood pellet stove. It broke a few nights ago.  Mr. White ordered a replacement part and it should arrive any day. In the meantime, I am thinking about how to keep this home a cozy, inviting place despite the forlorn cold. When we walk in the door from errands, we sense an emptiness.  There is nothing like a warm fire on a winter day, to gladden the heart.  We all miss it.

This morning, it is snowing heavily. I plugged in a portable electric heater to bring us a little warmth. It is in our parlour and should help take off some of the chill.   This 14 room house has multiple sources of heat. On the third floor suite, it is always warm.  On part of the first floor is where my parents live. They have a real old fashioned wood stove that doesn't break. We can visit with them at any time for some hot chocolate, to hear stories, and to enjoy the cozy stove.

But I love being in my own section of the house - my parlour and my kitchen. I love to clean and tidy and cook and bake. I enjoy listening to old gospel music by J. D. Sumner and The Kingsmen Quartet, while I work.  I love to sit in my favorite chair, near the window and enjoy my homemaking breaks.

Right now, I am thinking about Ma Ingalls and how she made her home inviting.  The family often battled cold and found ways to bring happiness.  Perhaps I will get my yarn and do a little crocheting this morning.  I can light a candle on the table to bring the impression of a fire and some warmth. I will also do a little cleaning and bake some brownies.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. All my children will come home. I will gather them around our electric heater and serve hot chocolate. Our stories and laughter will warm up the room and create a pleasant memory, while we wait for that stove part to arrive.

Blessings
Mrs. White


That extra effort - Making the Morning Pleasant for the Family.

Lovely ideas to create - The Romance of Home.

Essential - The Wife's Job at Home - Doing my Part.









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A Great Thanksgiving Resource from Hal and Melanie Young


Book - We Gather Together - Sanity and Celebration at Thanksgiving. (66 page E - book)

Authors - Hal and Melanie Young


Price - $7.50

This helpful book contains the Young's Thanksgiving menu, recipes, fabulous cooking tips, forms and ideas to make your Thanksgiving go smoothly. You'll also find history lessons and encouragement to help your family make the most of the Spiritual opportunities available on this special Holiday.

I printed out their menu, some of their recipes and their suggested "Order of Events."  I also printed out the history lessons. I plan to read some of these to the children during the morning of Thanksgiving, while we we are preparing food, enjoying snacks and waiting for the main meal.  I also love the idea of Thanksgiving songs and never even realized this was possible. The Youngs have included some wonderful songs, including "We Gather Together," which has a clickable link so you can hear the song for yourself.

I was inspired by Melanie's menu because it added a simple, loving touch to the festivities. The entire book reminded me of a detailed program for an important event. I loved it!

Here is what I am going to do today, as a homeschooling project with my teenager (currently my only student):

1. We will decorate and design a Thanksgiving Menu.
2. We will create place settings for all of our guests.
3. We will start baking and preparing some of the foods.
4. We will begin reading some of the stories from the Young's book.

The book has inspired a few ideas of my own:

5.  I might create a small program booklet for each guest to take home with them.
6.  I am seriously considering having everyone sign a guestbook.

As for tomorrow, I plan to use the book as a guide to help make the day extra special.  I will read Abraham Lincoln's Proclamation of Thanksgiving (from page 24) and several other selections from the book.

Overall I have never come across such a wonderful resource, and am thankful for the Youngs dedication in putting this book together.

Blessings
Mrs. White


*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.





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Monday, November 21, 2011

The Kitchen is Ready

Mother and Daughter at Kitchen Table, Preparing Ingredients in Mixer For Baking





I usually clean my kitchen three times a day. This includes wiping down appliances, counters, sweeping and cleaning the sink.

There is nothing worse, when it comes to housekeeping, for the family to wonder why there are no clean dishes. It is a black mark on my record, and makes me look like a slacker in the eyes of my family.  Sure, we all have our own chores, but the kitchen is mostly my domain.  I am expected to run a clean place because that is my job.

Have you ever heard the joke that when Mom cleans the kitchen, she tells the family they have to eat out because she doesn't want it to get messed up again? (smiles)  But there is a better mind-set. Once the kitchen is clean, how  about stepping back with pride and saying to the family:

"The Kitchen is Ready."

In other words, it has been cleaned. It is ready for guests. It is ready for anyone who wants to cook or have something good to eat. It is all set!

In this house, no one can clean like Mother.  This is evidenced when I am ill and bedridden. Right now, I only have one helper left at home. And he willingly takes over my chores.  I often hear his eager voice say, "I'll do all the dishes for you, Mom. You just rest!" And then a few hours later, the same child says, "I did some of the work. Can I do the rest tomorrow?"  I just smile...

24 hours later, not only is the kitchen a disaster, but so is the rest of the house.  Honestly, I have a hard time cleaning that kind of mess and think it would have been easier to just clean through my illness! (smiles)

But the children really appreciate a hard working mother. They miss hearing me say:

"Hey, you guys... The kitchen is ready!"

They come running from all over the place. They want to cook in a clean kitchen. They make snacks, get drinks and smile with delight. 

They always know when Mother is home and well, - Because the kitchen is clean.


Blessings
Mrs. White

* Note - We do not have a dishwasher. (Just in case you were wondering.)


Vintage thoughts relevant for today - 1894 Advice for Housewives.

Encouragement - A Housewife's Pink Mood.

Precious Times - Remembering Suppertime.







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Saturday, November 19, 2011

Making the Most of Home

An Alley of Rome Where a Woman Sitting on a Chair is Working at a Piece of Crocheting




Did you ever see that movie, The Dollmaker*,  Starring Jane Fonda? It is the saddest, sweetest, most educational movie I have ever seen. It encourages you to be extremely thrifty, and a hardworking, loving Mother.  I will never forget seeing Jane's character moving into an apartment that she didn't want to be in.  Her husband made a decision she hated, but she left her little rented house in the country and moved into this little place. The very first thing she did was get on her knees and scrub the floors. She was going to make the best of things.

There are all kinds of homes - apartments, condos, mobile homes, and houses. Some are old and worn out. Some are generally dirtier and in need of repairs, while others are clean, and new. Whether we live in a state of almost poverty or with wealth, we have to make the most of what we have.

Through our attitude and plenty of hard work, we can make our homes look clean and pleasant. Add to that a loving, tender smile to brighten the hearts of our family and guests, and home will be a sweet and precious place.

Blessings
Mrs. White

* This movie (from 1984) is so valuable, I paid $40 for an old copy 8 years ago. It is currently selling for $23 - $89! I dearly wish it would be made available on DVD.




Reality - What Kind of Queen are You?

Are you Worried Today? - If Home Were a Happy Place.


A Very Precious article by Andrew Himes about his Grandmother - Taking My Grandmother into My Heart.






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Friday, November 18, 2011

The Empty Cookie Jar







This morning, I opened the lid on our cookie jar. . .  It was empty. . .  But it made me happy. My children had enjoyed some good food.  I loved knowing I could bake more treats, and hide them in the cookie jar.

My teenagers love to peek inside this jar and wonder if Mama made them something special. I want to keep them guessing.

Perhaps today, I will fill it with brownies? Or maybe I will make more cupcakes?

Everything I bake gets wrapped in plastic wrap, or stored in baggies. This keeps the food fresh and my cookie jar clean.

I can't wait to see the charming smile and surprised look on their faces, when they open the lid tonight and see that Mama has, once again, secretly filled that empty cookie jar.

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Time of Loveliness - The Parlour in the Morning.

Antique Treasures - The Vintage Home.

Keeping Busy with - Domestic Occupations.







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Thursday, November 17, 2011

An Unhurried Day

The Good Old Days




Wouldn't it be nice to have a quiet day? A day when we pretend there is no television, very little electricity, and no cars? I know that is not entirely practical, but maybe we can pretend for a few hours.

It would be nice to have a day of puttering around the property, working outdoors to make the grounds look nice, and to slowly tidy up the house. Maybe singing a few hymns while we work?

The day could start with Bible study and prayer. Then a little bit of housework. Perhaps the children are all still sleeping while we do these few things. We can be dressed and ready for the day with a cheerful smile, as if we have all the time in the world today!

We can bake a special treat for the family, or just serve something special to surprise them for a mid-morning break.

Then perhaps we will go outside with them, and not say, "I am too busy." We can act like we are "retired" and have much leisure to just focus on family.

Will nothing distract us today? How sweet would that be?

Blessings
Mrs. White


My favorite attitude - Mother's Rose Colored Glasses.

Encouragement - Despairing over the Household Allowance.

Some ideas - How a Housewife Passes the  Time.








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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Homemade Effort

Ruins of an Old Fashioned Schoolhouse in Rural North Carolina





When Mr. White and I bought our old colonial house, I wanted it to earn its keep. What I mean is  the house had to pay for itself. It has 14 rooms and 2 acres of land. I wanted it to be an income - producing property.

We are not farmers. We know nothing about animals or gardening. We are city people. So we did what we knew best. I opened a day-care and did bookkeeping for local businesses. While this was going on, we also ran our country store, which was across the street. It was a busy, productive life. And yes, the house paid for itself!

The best part about the industry in this home was that every single family member was involved in each business. I didn't have to do any of it alone.  It was a team effort and we all thrived on it.

Yet, seasons change.  The children started to grow up and headed off to colleges.  We sold the store. I got sick (again) and couldn't do much of anything. I am still weary and have trouble,  but can function okay with rest.  It seems our productivity died out when Mama couldn't orchestrate the plans anymore.

Mr. White no longer owns his own business (our store) and works at a regular job. He certainly has plenty of free time, but we are craving the use of our creativity. We long for industry in this home.

This will take some serious effort. We will come up with plans and ideas and start seeing what becomes of it.  Still, it will be hard when Mama often feels like an invalid. What I want to see, more than anything, is the rest of my family thriving in self-made businesses without me.  I want to be the cheerleader, off in the sidelines. I want to watch them delight in their own ideas and accomplishments, and I want them to joyfully succeed in their own endeavors.  Because, frankly, I am tired. (gentle smiles)

Blessings
Mrs. White

A Little Nostalgia - Manners Learned at the Finishing School.

Our Busy times - 10 Children and Housekeeping.

You Can Have - The Cleanest House Ever!








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Monday, November 14, 2011

30 - Minute Marathon Cleaning

Apron Housewife Vacuuming Den





I don't know anyone who enjoys cleaning up a big mess. Personally, I like to take my time with housework, to take pride and delight in the process of making a home. However, when the kitchen is a wreck - after a big meal, I need to get things in order quickly. This calls for some marathon cleaning.

This is what I do:

1. Put on my ankle weights and set the timer for 30 minutes. (The weights help me work quickly, like I am doing a workout.)

2. Clean the sink, then fill it with hot water and start soaking dishes. (We don't have a dishwasher.)

3. Clean the counters.

4. Clean the stove.

5. Start washing dishes, drying them and putting them away.

6. I look at the clock and see I have 10 minutes left, this motivates me to work quickly without taking a break.

7. Soak the pans.

8. Sweep the Floor.

9. Wipe down the appliances.

10. Wash the pans.

All finished.

When I do this kind of marathon cleaning, I have much more free time for leisure. 

Blessings
Mrs. White

Taking homemaking seriously - What Time Does Your Shift Start?

Trying so hard not to be one of those - Bossy Wives.

When we are not cleaning - How a Housewife Passes the Time.






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Friday, November 11, 2011

The Comfort of Tea Time

Tea Time

My favorite memory of home is of having tea. It is comforting to serve tea to guests, to visit with family over tea, and to watch sweet little girls enjoy playing with tea sets.

When we are blessed with pretty china cups, we feel rich. There is something soothing and relaxing about sitting down to a neatly decorated table and being served hot tea in a pretty cup. It is even sweeter to drink tea while visiting and eating a few delicate cookies.

Have you ever tried Lorna Doones? I was introduced to them two decades ago, while in the hospital, after the birth of one of my children.  Late at night, a nurse brought me a few of these delicious cookies. I loved them!  To this day, eating Lorna Doones still bring me a nostalgic smile. They are a rare treat. I love to have them with my tea.

A few years ago, I was in a Cracker Barrel restaurant in New Hampshire. They served English tea with my breakfast. To me, it was just like being at home. I felt comfortable and happy.  I wonder if hot tea is a New England tradition? Because when I was a teenager, I traveled to Alabama. We went to a restaurant and when I ordered tea, they served me a tall glass of iced tea. I did not understand. (smiles) I had thought everyone in the world drank hot tea in pretty china cups.


Blessings
Mrs. White


Encouragement - What Sundays Used to Mean to Housewives.

Homeschooling - Education Must Not Be Rushed.

When we are overwhelmed  - The Homemaker's Despair.


Joining with
How Sweet the Sound






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Thursday, November 10, 2011

Manners Learned at The Finishing School

The End of Dinner, 1913




I attended a homemade finishing school. This was conducted a few times a month with the assistance of my Aunt. She lived in a lovely house a few streets over from us.  Her house was decorated with elegant paintings, beautiful lamps and lovely furniture. She had a guest room with white bedroom furniture, a rose colored lamp, end-tables and gorgeous shades on the windows. There was even a large vanity mirror above the dresser.

My sister and I were invited to sleep over her house.  She would set our hair in rollers, then settle us in the guest room. She would open the door just a bit, and say, "Do you girls need anything?" We were so comfortable in the soft beds, and warm, expensive blankets, that we felt like royalty. She was an excellent, patient hostess. I never saw her rushing about.

In the morning, we would get all dressed up and go out to breakfast.  The first restaurant I remember was across from the harbor in a lovely Massachusetts town.  Auntie taught us how to sit up straight, order our food, and place a napkin on our laps. She told us which silverware to use and how to act like ladies. This was all done as if there was all the time in the world.

This went on for many years. Then, as we got older and started to move on, we girls were busier and didn't have much time for our "informal" lessons.  My sister and I had a different schedule. We weren't together as often. On occasion, as I was walking to the high school bus stop, in the early morning hours, my Aunt would be on her way to work.  She would stop and pick me up.  This was the first time in my life I ever heard classical music. It was calming and soothing. She would listen to this on her way to the city, where she would take the subway, or ferry, into Boston for the day's work.

At other times, she would invite me to breakfast. My favorite place was called "Mug 'n Muffin," which was a high class cafe in the plaza.  The lights were dim. The tables were dark mahogany, and the booths were burgundy leather. I always ordered the same thing - A hot chocolate with whipped cream, and a warm chocolate chip muffin served on a delicate plate. I ate this with a fork, as if it was a delicious  pastry one could order in a French restaurant. During our little visit in the cafe, we would talk about our days and upcoming plans. 

Auntie had family parties at her house. We always dressed up for these. She had a finished basement, where a table was set up with a tablecloth. There were all kinds of wonderful things  to eat and drink lined up for the guests.  It was always family, and perhaps a friend or two.  We enjoyed these gatherings so much!  We would walk throughout the house, visiting everyone in the different rooms depending on who was where. Perhaps a cousin was in the formal living room. Or an Uncle in the kitchen talking to Dad and Mom.   There were usually a few small children who entertained us with their antics. But even they were dressed in their best!

Auntie had stories of travelling. I was most fascinated with her trip to Italy.  She once gave me a gorgeous pair of white, long leather gloves which she bought while abroad. I cherish them!

And while this all might sound even more interesting when reminiscing, it was really just we girls, spending time with our Aunt through our growing up years. I don't think she even realized she was the very source of our education in manners, or that she was our teacher in a homemade finishing school.

Blessings
Mrs. White

A photograph of our Vermont House - The Purple Parlour.

Nourishing the Soul - Kitchen Sermons.

When things are rough for the older ones - Childhood Home as the Nursery.







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Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Shabby Apple Dress - Giveaway

I had the most lovely time visiting Shabby Apple's online store. Their vintage inspired and boutique clothes are beautiful. I am so excited to tell you about one of their dresses that you can win, right here, in a giveaway!

It is called "The Ballerina".



The Ballerina - Side View

This is such an elegant dress! The color is plum. The fabric is a soft jersey. The ruching adds a classy, flattering touch.





The Ballerina - Front View

The Regular Retail price is $62.00.  It is currently on sale for only $43.40.


Navigating the Shabby Apple site was like shopping in an upscale, comfortable boutique. Their products include: Women's Dresses, Maternity Dresses, Girls Dresses, and Fashion Accessories.  They have so many lovely things!

Would you like to do a little shopping? I have been given a coupon code to offer my readers, which will give you 10% off your order!


The code is: legacy10off



The Giveaway

How would you like a chance to win "The Ballerina" Dress?

Win it for yourself, or as a gift for a friend or relative.

 To enter, all you have to do is choose to like Shabby Apple on Facebook, then come back here and leave me a comment.


For additional Entries:


1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5
. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

6. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

7. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.

8. Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter.

9. Visit Shabby Apple and tell me which item you like the most.


*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*


One random winner we be selected on Wednesday, November 23, 2011. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 


This contest is closed. The Winner is - Cristi!

*Disclosure - Shabby Apple is sponsoring this giveaway.*


To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.





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Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Who Will Help Mother?

Still Life of Peonies and Roses




I cannot tell you how many times I've asked my children to help me with my projects and my chores. When they were little, they were delighted. But when they got older, they had their own projects, activities and agendas. This is something I have to constantly remind myself - the importance of enjoying my daily duties.

While children should certainly have their own chores, Mother needs to have her own work as well. Have you ever watched Ma Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie?  Mary and Laura were busy with school. They also had homework in the evenings. But they had specific tasks to do at home - and then they were done! Mother didn't try to slave-drive them all day long. No, she did her own work, just like Pa did his.

If I am busy in the kitchen, or working in the living room, or doing laundry, there is often a teenager nearby talking to me about his day. If I said to my teens, "Hey, can you help me with that?" Don't you think they'd find something else to do, and fast?   (smiles)   It's not that they don't want to help me, but they want to see Mother busy with her own responsibilities.  They don't want to think that Mother is always trying to get out of her chores. It sets a bad example. They want to see Mother diligent and content with her daily agenda.

Yesterday, I cleaned and baked. I had plenty of time for leisure. I read for a while, did some writing, and then did the laundry. I did not ask anyone the age-old, weary question, "Will someone please help me??"

But if I were sick, or not able-bodied, the family would certainly step in and do my work for me. If I had a baby, or a toddler who needed most of my time, the family chores would fall more heavily on the rest of the family, so I could be free to care for the younger ones. But when Mother doesn't have those kinds of things going on, she would do well to get into the habit of learning to love her own work and be about her own household business.


Blessings
Mrs. White

Motivation - Domestic Incentives.

The Importance of A Wife Who Does Not Complain.

We Need to Keep  - A Vision of Home.







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Monday, November 7, 2011

Baking Homemade Cinnamon Rolls by Lamplight


I looked through my old cookbooks to find a nice, easy recipe for cinnamon rolls. One of my Betty Crocker Cookbooks  was published around the 1970's. I like how the recipes include shortening or a butter substitute. I also appreciate that there are no microwave directions, no bread machine guidelines or any of those modern shortcuts that I don't understand how to use! I like to bake old fashioned American goodness and I love the old fashioned recipes.


First, I made the "Sweet Roll Dough" found on page 215. This included 1 pkg. yeast, 1/2 c. warm water,  1/2 c. lukewarm milk, 1/3 c. butter (or shortening), (I lightly heated the milk and butter on the stove- top), 1 t. salt, an egg and 2 cups plus 2 cups Gold Medal flour (mix 2 cups first, then add the last 2 as needed for mixing and kneading). I mixed this all together, then kneaded it for a few minutes.



I use a butcher-block counter. I always put a little vegetable oil on the surface, and on my hands, before I work with the dough. This prevents it from sticking. 

When the dough was ready, I poured a little bit of oil in a stainless steel mixing bowl. Then I turned the dough over in the oil to coat it. I covered the bowl with a dishcloth.

The dough had to rise until doubled. Because my house is drafty, I turn on the oven to 200 degrees (some recommend 100 degrees). When the oven is preheated, I shut it off. Then I take a small baking pan (such as a cake pan) and fill it halfway with steaming hot water. I place this on the lower rack of the oven. This helps keep the oven warm.

I put the bowl of dough on the top rack of the oven. I let it sit for an hour and a half.

During this time, I washed dishes, and listened to Crooners. We don't have a working light in our kitchen, so we use a small lamp on the counter. It makes working in the kitchen a lovely experience.

I still had some time before the dough would be ready, so I watched a little television and took a break.

When the dough was ready, I "punched" it down, then put it on my counter. I rolled it out into a rectangular shape (18 x 9 inches). I used one of the children's rulers to measure the side of the dough.

 I never can get the dough to measure right. I make a lot of  mistakes, over- measure things, and spill flour on the flour.  Through it all, I remain cheerful, while listening to sweet music from the old days.

It was time for the cinnamon part of the process - I put 2 tablespoons of butter into a small saucepan on low heat, to melt it. The butter should be brushed over the top of the sweet dough. A pastry brush works well, but I used a piece of plastic wrap. You could also use a baggie. The plastic wrap is thin and hard to work with. I had to do this quickly to avoid burning my hand because of the hot butter.  The delightful scent of warm, sweet dough was incredible.

I measured out 1/4 cup sugar and mixed it with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. I used a spoon to sprinkle this over the butter, on top of the sweet dough.





I carefully rolled the dough, starting from the long side. This created a large rope of dough. I pinched the ends to seal it.

Next, I greased a 12 cup muffin pan.

I used my paring knife to slice the dough into 1 inch pieces. I ended up with 18 pieces. 12 went into the muffin pan. The rest were put into a brownie pan.



I let the dough rise, back in the oven, for around 30 minutes.

I placed the pans on the counter so I could pre-heat my oven to 375 degrees. Then I baked the rolls for around 15 minutes. I overcooked mine by accident, so they are a bit crusty. (If I them serve while still warm, no one will really care. - smiles)

I placed these on a cooling rack for around 5 minutes, then transferred them to a plate. I did not want to ice all of them with a glaze. But if you want to, it's very easy:

In a small mixing bowl, put 1 cup powdered sugar. Add 1 - 3 Tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until desired consistency. Add a little more milk if necessary.  Then drizzle over warm rolls.





Looking at this picture, you can see the rolls look more like crusty bread.  We are going to have times when our baked goods come out perfectly, and other times when they are just "okay." Regardless, the process of baking and the delightful scents in the kitchen are precious. Just be sure to clean up as you go along so you can relax as soon as the food is ready!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Grace Kelly would never be one of those Bossy Wives.

Quiet, simple ways of How a Housewife Passes the Time.

Vintage, Classic idea - Cooking for Mister.








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