Innholdsfortegnelse for March - April 2007 i Southern Lady

What is it about bakeries that makes us lose control of our senses? I just love the heavenly aromas that meet you outside the door, and once inside, seeing those glass cases filled with wonderful cakes and cookies just starts my mouth watering. When I was a young child, our kindergarten class toured a bakery in Mobile, Alabama. I remember the large mixers and ovens, as well as the countless loaves of bread that were made that day. I was amazed by the quantity of cookies that could be produced in such a short amount of time. And the sweet scent filled an entire city block! When we moved to Birmingham, we discovered an incredible confectionery inside the Pizitz department store. Though mother was an excellent baker, she always purchased…

Beautiful things speak to us. They might whisper like a child in church or proclaim in a voice as clear as a glorious March morning. Either way, we are wise to listen to what they say. It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. —Laura Ingalls Wilder ” Throughout the ages, artisans have tweaked the designs of functional items, adding embellishments that take the ordinary to the extraordinary. Such is the case with the cream pitcher. This little cup, intended to hold a measure of milk or cream at the table, is practical to be sure. But what makes it so desirable as a collectable is the almost limitless variety of shapes, patterns, and styles, each one with a story of its own.…

Simple switches can change the tone of the setting from formal to fun. BOTANICAL beauty A spring setting just begs for bright colors and nature-inspired elements. This winsome setting complies with a nubby-textured placemat in indigo blue that anchors a dainty dinner plate adorned with butterflies, bees, and blossoms atop a Jadite-green charger. To continue the natural theme, use the dragonfly holder, crafted of a coppery metal in a verdigris finish, as a clasp for a red and white napkin with the tiniest of stripes. Simple glassware, imprinted with a butterfly motif, completes the look. PRETTY plumage This setting begins with a pristine lacebanded placemat and a snowy white linen napkin caught with golden rings. An ostentation of peacocks in bold colors struts across the featured china that is generously…

Bring a bit of whimsy to the table with fanciful buttons and marbles. Start with two clear containers, one of which will fit easily inside the other. Fill the smaller container with floral foam and soak with water. Place the smaller container inside the larger one and surround with buttons or marbles of all sizes and shades. Finish with a few beautiful blossoms that coordinate with your color palette—we chose Gerbera daisies to match the bright and bold buttons—and you’ll have a unique arrangement to enjoy for days to come.…

“…And then my heart with pleasure fills, And dances with the daffodils.” —William Wordsworth AAccording to Greek mythology, a handsome young man named Narcissus was so entranced with his own good looks that he spent his days gazing at his reflection in the water. So absorbed was he that he wasted away and upon his death became a flower, one botanically named the Narcissus but commonly known as the daffodil. One of the first bright blossoms to announce the coming of spring, the daffodil takes its job as harbinger of the season quite seriously. So seriously in fact that, oftentimes, in its eagerness to spread the news, it pops its brilliant yellow head up through layers of late winter snow. Oh, what a welcome sight! Daffodils are among the hardiest…

The variety and sheer volume of beautiful and clever embellishments for compiling scrapbooks can be almost mind-boggling. Shiny stars, vintageprint flowers, pastel lettering, and a plethora of pretty papers are among the decorative accents at your fingertips. Let your creativity run wild—there is no wrong way to scrapbook. Use any extra “scraps” to make homemade cards or gift tags, or fasten the leftover fixings onto picture frames and memo boards to create adornments for home décor items. Boxes and boxes of your children’s childhood treasures are tenderly tucked away. Hidden inside are first grade photos, good citizenship certificates, and pictures scrawled in crayon. They are certainly lovely mementos, but it’s impossible to enjoy these keepsakes if they are hidden. Scrapbooking has been around for some time now, but recently this…

Tonight every bit of her five-feet-and-a-handful-of-inches frame stands tall on the renowned stage, taking in this most precious occasion. With family flanking her sides and thunderous applause filling the Grand Ole Opry, Barbara Mandrell graciously smiles, bows, and expresses her gratitude for the crowd that has gathered in her honor. It has been almost a decade since Barbara and her band, the Do-Rites, took this same stage for their sold-out final concert. But it’s the 38 years leading up to that retirement that explain this evening's devoted audience. Undeniably one of country music’s most accomplished entertainers, Barbara has touched the lives of many with her blond hair, blue eyes, and genuine heart of gold. Princess of Steel Born in Houston, Texas, on Christmas Day 1948, Barbara learned to read music…

In the spring of the year, special occasions abound. We hostesses know that celebrations are in order to mark these precious moments in time, and so we dedicate our days to gift-filled soirees. These showers bring together friends and family for food and fellowship, with the main focus centered on commemorating the respective new beginning with an outpouring of love and blessings. To help you with this season’s party planning, we’ve selected a few of our favorite shower themes, which we hope will inspire ideas galore. As a friend of the bride-to-be, you may select a tried and true “Around the Clock” shower, in which friends of the bride and groom offer gifts geared toward a specific time of day. Or if a young couple is expecting their first baby,…

From the pretty invitations and lacy tablecloths, to the floral centerpiece and exquisite tea service, roses are the order of the day. Summon guests with an elegant invite that sets the tone for the party. Petite ceramic posies in pink and white exemplify the type of tiny details that add beaucoups of charm. The beautiful antique china tea set serves as inspiration for a fabulous floral arrangement highlighted with roses in tangerine and blush.adds the perfect touch of nostalgia to the table setting and inspires the striking floral centerpiece. Delicate swirls of lovely lace grace the table in a variety of places—on the luxurious linens, tray cloth, crisp pastelprinted napkins, and doilies that cradle the sweet confections. While the new grandma will be quite grateful to receive outlet guards and…

Nestled in a valley where spring beauty rivals fall, Asheville is an enchanting escape flowing with nature and nostal_ia. TThere’s something truly special about a road trip with a friend, for the journey is often as joyful as the destination. When it was our turn to enjoy a peaceful weekend retreat, we took to North Carolina’s magnificent mountains for a glorious getaway Like a welcome mat gladly extended for a guest, wildflower-speckled fields and glistening granite received us warmly as we began a quiet hike through DuPont State Forest. More majestic than words are the true wonders hidden in these hills. Waterfalls danced about, defying altitude in nature’s grand display of acrobatics, while we stood in awe at their splendor and grace. We had quite a day rock-hopping down the…

I enjoyed the article in your January/February 2007 issue [“Mix & Match”] about mixing and matching when setting a table. I have taken it to an even further eclectic level. My father and husband were both career Air Force officers so I have things from all over the world—it reminds me that I have been at “home” in so many places! Suzann Darnall San Marcos, Texas I read with great interest your article “Southern Symphonies” in the current Southern Lady magazine [January/February 2007]. You’re doing a super job with this publication. Barbara Stegall Rome, Georgia It is true, “Too much of a good thing is wonderful.” Southern Lady is a special treat for me, along with TeaTime. These two magazines are anxiously awaited and I enjoy them each until time…

Built by a Raleigh mayor in the late 19th century, the Dodd-Hinsdale house is high Victorian with bracketed porches and a handsome three-and-a-half-story Second Empire tower. Restaurant owners and restoration enthusiasts Kim Reynolds and her father, Ted, restored the exterior to period perfection, while coating the interior in sleek and modern style—creating an elegant backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. “Our dream for the Second Empire was a light, airy atmosphere that encouraged lively conversation,” says Kim. The beautiful walnut staircase, old floors, period mantels, and woodwork are still mindful of the past, but the original floor plan was opened up to let in the light. Furnishings were selected for modern comfort, while white tablecloths, fresh flowers, and romantic lighting create the ambiance of amoré. Second Empire opened to rave…

Learning to Breathe By Karen White/Published by New American Library, a division of Penguin Fear of disappointment has left Brenna O’Brien measuring out the days in her hometown of Indianola, Louisiana. Now in her early thirties, Brenna has carried the burden imposed by her late father— blame for her mother’s death—since she was six. Also shadowing her is the unexplained departure years before of her first and only love, Pierce McGovern, that has left her with anger and a need for answers. Though she has made a tentative peace with her life, some traces of the spunky young Brenna remain. As owner of the Royal Majestic Theater, she is passionate about preserving the historic landmark. She resents being mother-henned by her four sisters, and she is dedicated to collecting old…

SSurprises galore await discovery on Easter morning. Alongside the predictable baskets of chocolate rabbits and marshmallow chicks, try incorporating a few new delights that are equally enchanting to children and adults alike. These treats won’t disappear in the blink of an eye, but can be enjoyed for days to come. Rye grass, brilliant green and fresh as a cool spring breeze, offers tiny indoor lawns for peppermint pink parrot tulips to play hide-and-seek. Sections of sod may be purchased from a florist or grown from seed. Place in a variety of containers—ceramic baskets, candy-filled vials, or pottery vases—either in a group or as a solo act. Take colored eggs to a whole new level of lovely with a myriad of pretties wrapped in ribbon. Adorned with delicate laces, vintage-look buttons,…

Gifts are appreciated to be sure, but perhaps no other continues to give quite like the present offered to the United States by Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki on behalf of the Japanese people in the year 1912. Though no fancy bows accompanied the 3,000 cherry trees Ozaki selected to bestow, the thoughtfulness of the gesture is vividly illustrated each and every spring when a lovely profusion of color fills the nation’s capital. Held in conjunction with the estimated peak blooming period of the trees, the National Cherry Blossom Festival offers two weeks’ worth of events to commemorate the gift and its symbol of friendship between the two countries and their citizens. “There are so many activities,” says Washington, D.C. resident and outdoor enthusiast Cecelia Pizano. “The events take place all…

Easy ways to freshen your look, framed works of art add instant charm to your halls and walls. Though pieces purchased from galleries and art shows are lovely choices indeed, why not go a step further with personalized displays that showcase your tailored tastes? Begin by sorting through pictures passed down from Great- Grandmother Emma, and select several that have special meaning. If you’re concerned about keeping the integrity of the photo intact, then simply take the picture to a photography store and have the image enlarged. Visit a frame shop to help you make selections for matting and framing. You’ll want to consider where the picture will hang, what color scheme will be emphasized, and what overall look you’d like to create. Choose from countless options: decorative embellishments, layered…

TEXAS Austin’s First Home Although Texas became a state in 1845, it was not until 1854 that plans were underway to build an official home for the state’s governor. Completed in 1856, the Texas Governor’s Mansion is the oldest continuously occupied executive residence west of the Mississippi. The Mansion’s builder, famous Austin resident Abner Cook, chose the popular Greek Revival style of architecture, featuring fluted Ionic columns across the front of the building. The original 11- room structure was 6,000 square feet. An addition in 1914—the only major structural change made to the Mansion—increased the size to 8,920 square feet and more than 25 rooms. By 1979, when Governor William P. Clements took office, the Mansion was in dire need of restoration. Governor Clements and his wife— with cooperation from…

An intricately detailed single-initial monogram flaunts its distinctive charm on this lovely linen napkin. Monograms may be the bride’s initials alone or the combined initials of the bride and groom, as shown on this beige towel. The serene color theme of green and white is carried throughout the decorations, and as the ultimate centerpiece, a sweet confection topped with a sugary version of a monogrammed linen truly takes the cake.initials. Silver is always a good choice; trays, pitchers, and frames are easily engraved. Traditionally, monogrammed linens are wonderful gifts, ones that can be passed down through generations. Think beyond bath and tea towels and add initials to bed sheets, shower curtains, and sets of napkins The soft green and ivory color scheme is repeated on the one-of-kind monogrammed cake encircled…

Captivated by their sweet fuzzy faces, our first friends are teddy bears. An aluminum paint bucket is the perfect receptacle for a bright bouquet in red and saffron. The bitsy bear has magnetic mitts allowing him to sneak in a hug. Old-fashioned juice glasses sporting a petite pet parade evoke childhood memories of lemonade on the porch. With the wonderful news that another little Southern gentleman is on the way, it’s time to make merry. Instead of the usual blueblue- and-more-blue theme, try something fresh and retro at the same time: a teddy bear shower based on the classic childhood song, “Teddy Bears’ Picnic.” Gather together a batch of well-loved bears and build the party around them. Take your color cues from a little red wagon, and add generous helpings…

Ever since she was a golden-haired pixie cooking with her mother and grandmother, Southern Lady Food Editor Aimee Bishop has been happiest in the cozy surrounds of a kitchen. Her Depression-era grandma, who lived at a time when money was scarce, taught a lasting lesson: Preparing food is how you show love. Little Aimee earned quite a reputation for her skills, preparing her first full meal at the tender age of ten. “I fixed stuffed chicken breasts, and everyone ate them, so I guess it was good,” Aimee says with a smile. What she remembers most, though, is the warm, fuzzy feeling she got from serving dinner to her loved ones. “I equate cooking with home and family and happy times,” says Aimee, who is grateful that her mother allowed…

Stretching literally from the North to the South, Interstate 65 offers a veritable plethora of pleasing stops for hungry travelers, but if ultimate satisfaction for a sweet tooth is what you seek, look no further than the tiny town of Cullman, Alabama. The city’s historic downtown is home to The Duchess Bakery, a humble establishment that boasts some of the South’s best doughnuts. The friendly creaking of a screen door painted in a bold shade of blue acts as the first sign of welcome you receive on your visit to this sweet shop. Soon to follow is the heavenly aroma of freshly baked sugary sensations. Plain white walls—some bearing shelves laden with simple white take-out boxes and some showcasing framed accolades and awards bestowed upon the Duchess—and the absence of…

To purchase items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and not available for purchase. To contact the manufacturers and retail stores referenced below, see DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES. MIX & MATCH PAGE 23-26: Blue placemats, jute placemats, and red napkins; Bed, Bath & Beyond. Botanic garden plates; Portmeirion. Lace placemats and napkins; Target. Butterfly Meadow and Bee Lead Crystal; Lenox. Confetti Porcelain Plates; Punch Studio. Blue napkins, green flower napkin rings, dragonfly napkin rings, Vietri green dinner plate, flower pot; At Home Furnishings. Angel, brass rabbit, cream pitcher, planter, and exotic bird plates; Harmony Landing. SEASONAL SETTINGS PAGE 30-32: Vases; Hobby Lobby. Blue Danube china and teapot; Dinnerware Depot, Inc. Linen napkins; Christine’s. Windmill plate; Mulberry Heights…

When the robin came bobbin’, look what he brought us!…

With waning winter days inching their way along the calendar, we are more than ready to welcome a new season with arms open wide. Though temperatures outside still waver a bit, inside, it’s definitely spring, and nowhere is that more evident than in the dining room. The contrasting colors of cobalt blue against pristine white, with the addition of sunny yellow accents, result in a perky yet elegant palette as fresh as brisk March breezes. A buttery damask tablecloth in the same subtle shade as the walls, layered over a similarly patterned cloth in white, forms a soothing backdrop to the distinctive dinnerware. When blue and white china was first created by Chinese artisans, the blue tint was chosen purely because it was the only color that did not change…

Dorothy McDaniel’s Design Your Own Materials: Wire garden basket on stand Cardboard (if needed) Sheet moss Glass vases (enough to fill basket) Daffodils STEP 1. If the bottom of the wire container is uneven, cut a disc of cardboard to give arrangement a secure base. Line interior walls of wire basket with sheet moss. STEP 2. Fill the container with multiple glass jars or vases, and add water to each. (Note: Using one large vase would cause daffodils to fall toward the sides.) STEP 3. Give daffodil stems a fresh cut and place them into the vases, filling each vase with as many stems as possible. Make sure that the daffodil stems are cut in a variety of heights rather than all one length to recreate the look of natural garden…

Opulence and elegance abound within the walls of the famous Willard hotel. Located on legendary Pennsylvania Avenue, this illustrious site has been a part of Washington’s history since 1816, and its nickname, “Residence of Presidents” comes from acting as host to almost every president since Zachary Taylor’s stay in 1850. Throughout the year, a visit to this exquisite hotel so steeped in tradition would certainly prove worthwhile, but the themed tea offered during the annual Cherry Blossom Festival presents an opportunity to enjoy the Willard’s beauty, culture, and cuisine at its best. Branches bursting with cherry blossoms fill the lobby and line the prominent promenade known as Peacock Alley. One of the capital’s prime locations to “stroll, strut, see, and be seen,” this passageway’s intricate floor design was preserved during…

For most, Williamsburg offers a glimpse into the past. For Susan Jamieson, it flashed a possible future. While studying at The College of William and Mary, Susan fell in love with the town’s historical furnishings and the idea of making them “new” again. “A piece doesn’t have to be so old-fashioned that it’s dated,” she explains. Now the owner of Richmond, Virginia’s Bridget Beari Designs—named for Susan and her former business partner’s dogs—her mantra proves priceless for those who value tradition but desire an update. Though making the paradox work is not always easy, Susan gladly accepts the challenge because of the perks. “I get to ‘live’ in different houses,” she says. “It’s fun as a designer to be inspired by other people.” Susan enjoys walking through clients’ homes to…

Is there any occasion more exciting than an engagement announcement? There is so much joy and hope and love all rolled into that one revelation. When family friend Lindsay Rutland became engaged, I could not wait to co-host a bridal shower with a wonderful group of ladies for this young woman. It was Lindsay’s dream to have an all-white tea. What a challenge! As we began planning the event, I realized what a lovely idea it really was: luxurious white linens on the tables, floral arrangements composed of pristine white flowers, ivory china with gold bands—I just knew it would be beautiful. We decided that the menu would be simple. I have found that a slice of really scrumptious cake and coffee is perfect for a Sunday afternoon tea. Most…

Bursting with color, a berry-inspired party palette carries from the linens and tableware to flowers and packages. Popping shades of purple and pink add a cheerful tone to this joyful celebration. Follow your theme through every tiny touch. Wrist watch-wrapped napkins are a charming detail, or consider this pleasant surprise: two silver utensils paired on a festive platter delightfully disguised as hands on a clock. Oh, the promise of new life that comes with a wedding: quiet mornings shared over coffee, lazy afternoons at the park, and late-night movies complete with popcorn. Tried, true, and treasured by betrothed couples and partygoers alike, Around the Clock showers offer an opportunity to give gifts that can be enjoyed throughout the day. The idea is simple. Once you’ve finished your bright and bold…

“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive—to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” —Marcus Aurelius Cascading rays of early morning light stream through panes of simple glass, washing the entire room in floods of hope and joy. At sunrise, we see the transformation that illumination brings. Shadows disappear. Dewdrops sparkle like diamonds. Birds rise from their nests to sing sweet anthems that fill the world with promise. All creation responds to the sun and its radiance, and we join in a grand celebration to welcome the dawning of this, a new day. Whether Easter Sunday or any other calendar day, begin with an expression of jubilation by creating a table laden with flourishing beauty and a bountiful breakfast. Featuring…

COCONUT TOFFEE BLONDIES Makes 2 dozen 1/2 cup butter, melted 11/2 cups sugar 1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon coconut extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 (3.5-ounce) can sweetened flaked coconut 1/2 cup toffee bits Garnish: sifted confectioners’ sugar ◁ Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with baking spray with flour; set aside. ◁ In a large bowl, combine butter and sugars. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and coconut extract, beating to combine. ◁ In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt; stir in coconut. Add flour mixture to butter mixture, beating at low speed until blended. Press batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle evenly with toffee…

Little ladies twirl about the yard, smiles sparkling as bright as the twinkle of tiny tiaras. Stopping their frolic just long enough to snack, these pretty princesses dine on a positively pink buffet. Perfect for your daughter’s special celebration or an afternoon with Nana in the kitchen, the Pink Princess Cookbook boasts dazzling recipes for delight. Sixteen years in the children’s culinary business has taught Barbara Beery a thing or two about birthdays. “When it comes to little girls, the answer is universal,” she says. “Pink princess parties are it.” With this in mind, Barbara, the chief chef and friendly founder of Batter Up Kids Culinary Center, compiled her favorite princess-tested, Mother-approved creations into a go-to guide for royal revelry. Blessed with a mother who encouraged her children to “help”…