I was talking with Kalan from Lucky Dog Farm about beneficial insects at the Cooperstown Farmers Market on Saturday and the subject of walking sticks came up. I told him I hadn't seen one yet this year but they usually appear on the back door screen. Well, look who appeared on Sunday morning! This beauty wasn't content to hang out on the screen. He came in to pose on the fridge for me so I could share his magnificence with you!
Spice filled mug mats and trivets make a thoughtful, fragrant gift. While they are not hard to make it does take a little time if you age your mix properly. The secret to long lasting fragrance in any potpourri type mix is sufficient aging. You can vary the spices and oils in this recipe to suit your own nose. Mug Mat Mix 1 cup of allspice 1 cup of cinnamon chips 1/2 cup of cloves 1 cup of dried orange peel 1/4 cup of star anise 1/4 cup of dried rosemary 1 cup of oak moss or cellulose fiber chips 1/2 teaspoon of orange essential oil 1/4 teaspoon each of clove and cinnamon essential oils Mix the first 6 ingredients and put into a jar with a tight fitting lid. Make sure it is large enough to allow for future mixing by shaking. Place your oak moss or cellulose fixative in a small jar with a lid and add your oils. Shake well and let sit for several days until the oils are fully absorbed. Add to your spice mix, put the cover back on and shake gently to mix. Let age for at least 4 weeks, s...
I love the Walking Sticks (scarce here in Va. also) and the praying Mantis! They feel like old friends when they finally show up! I copied your Choc.Zucc.Cake recipe and I'm anxious to try it but things have been to busy. I'll give you my opinion soon. PS-Sometimes we bloggers wonder if anyone ever reads our posts-I love your blog & always read it. So now ya know!! Happy Labor Day!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sue! Our conversation began with praying mantis and how I got my son a "coccoon" of the eggs for his birthday one year. As a 9 year old boy, he loved the gift! I too, enjoy your blog! : )
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