A Girls Guide to Home Life

Movie Life Magazine {April 1940}

2011-12-22T18:48:00.000-05:00

I love movie magazines. There is something about them that I just love. Maybe it is the photos? The trivia? Interviews? I don't know what, but they sure are intriguing.

The magazine I'll be featuring today is one of my favorites - Movie Life (April, 1940). Why? It has an article of one of my favorite actresses - Deanna Durbin. That may, or may not be the reason why I bought this magazine. *grin*

Look! Cary Grant takes an old family friend to the premiere of My Girl Friday {I love that movie!}. Also the Los Angeles' Mayor greets Rosalind Russell at Girl Friday press party. In the bottom picture on the left, Olivia de Havilland is sporting the new pompadour hair-do. While on the right we have Judy Garland on a date to her movie, Strike Up the Band.

Here we have, Errol Flynn, Anne Shirley, and Shirley Temple.

Next up we have a four page spread on Deanna Durbin. Enjoy!

Have you seen the film, Young Tom Edison (1940) starring Mickey Rooney? I grew up watching this film, so it was fun seeing this little spread.

This page is filled with stars! We have a wedding picture of Ronald Reagan & Jane Wyman. Katharine Hepburn {in a darling dress and pumps!}, Raymond Massey & Mrs. Roosevelt! That's just on the top row of pictures. Underneath we have Mickey Rooney, Pat O'Brain, Gene Autry, Olivia de Havilland, and many others!!

I hope you all enjoyed this little peak into one of my magazines I own. Let me know how you enjoyed it!

Costume in England by: Frederick William Fairholt (1846)

2011-06-16T07:36:00.000-04:00

Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress

2011-04-29T16:30:00.000-04:00

Yes, I was one of those who woke up at 4:30 this morning to watch the Royal Wedding of Prince William & Kate Middleton.

Was it worth it? Yes!! I simply adore Kate's wedding dress - minus the dip in the front neckline. Other then that her dress was pretty much my style - simple yet classic. And here's to hoping that wedding dresses with sleeves will come into vogue again.

The moment I saw Kate in her wedding dress, I immediately thought that her dress had some similarities to Grace Kelly's wedding dress. Which by the way, is another favorite wedding dress of mine. :)

Here is a comparison picture for y'all. Look at the lace overlay and the sleeves.

If you are wanting to copy Kate Middleton's dress may I recommend Vogue 2979.

Did you watch the Royal Wedding? What did you think of Kate's dress? What was your favorite part?

Internet Archive

2011-04-11T06:00:00.001-04:00

My very favorite website with free resources is Internet Archive. You will find TV Shows, Movies, Music, Radio Shows, and Books that are in the Public Domain to download onto your computer. What bliss!

What kind of Radio shows do y'all enjoy? Maybe you like one of the following? They are some of my favorites.

How about music? Do you like the oldies from the 30s, 40s, and 50s? Why don't you check and see if your favorite singers are available on Internet Archive. Here are some that I have found already for y'all:

TV Shows for y'all to enjoy!

Some movies you might enjoy.

Great Guy {1936}
Santa Fe Trail {1940}
His Girl Friday {1940}
Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon {1943}
Lights of Old Santa Fe {1944}
Texas Legionnaires {1943}
Penny Serenade {1941}
The Amazing Adventure {1936}
Meet John Doe {1941}
The Little Princess {1939}
Little Lord Fauntleroy {1936}

1965 Southern Cooking - Fried Chicken & Buttermilk Biscuits

2011-03-16T09:14:00.000-04:00

Fried Chicken

The one on the left is made with King Arthur White flour. While the one on the right is gluten-free and made with almond meal from Trader Joe's.

1/2 C. flour

1 tsp. salt

some pepper

1 tsp. paprika

I had 8 legs and thighs pieces and there was enough mix leftover for more.

Put everything in a paper sack and shake one chicken piece at a time. Place chicken on a plate. Heat either grape seed oil or shortening in heavy skillet to the depth of 1/2 inch. When warm add the chicken and fry both sides until lightly browned. Turn pieces frequently. When all pieces are evenly browned, cover and cook slowly 30 to 40 min., or until thickest pieces are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain on plate with paper towel.

Buttermilk Biscuits

These are so good! We love them so much I made fresh ones for lunch today. :) AND they taste Cracker Barrel's.

2 C. flour {I used King Arthur White Flour}

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/3 C. shortening

3/4 C. buttermilk

Blend first four ingredients together in a bowl, with a spoon. Cut in shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles cornmeal. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients; add buttermilk all at one time. Stir with a fork until dough follows fork. Gently form dough into a ball and put on a lightly floured surface. Knead lightly with finger tips 10 to 15 times. Gently roll dough 1/2 in. thick. Cut with a small glass cup, lightly flour first. Place on a baking sheet, greased, close together for soft-sided biscuits. Brush tops lightly with milk. Bake 450 degrees 10 to 15 min., or until biscuits are golden brown.

Both of the above recipes are from The Southern Cook Book of Fine Old Recipes {1965}. You can buy your own copy here.

Quote of the Day.... Little Boys

2011-02-28T17:00:00.000-05:00

"Little boys come in all shapes and sizes,
Shy and adventurous, full of surprises,
With misshapen halos and
mischievous grins,
Small dirty faces, and sweet, sticky chins.

They'll keep you so busy, and yet all the while
Nothing can brighten the world like
their smile.

And no greater treasure has brought homes more joy
Than a curious, active, and lovable boy!"

-Author unknown

{Source of pictures: LIFE photos hosted on Google Images. http://images.google.com/hosted/life/}

Free 1940s Knit Patterns

2011-01-16T15:24:00.000-05:00

{Link}

A New Look, A New Year...

2011-01-13T09:46:00.001-05:00

I've given the blog a whole new look. What do you think? I wanted to try a more girly, vintage{y} look for the blog. I've also added a contact and about me page above. I'll be adding more pages as I have time.

I also have tons of vintage magazines and knitting/crocheting patterns to scan for all of you. So look out for those in the coming weeks & months.

Also, on my other blog, Bramblewood Fashion, I will be hosting a Keeping it Classy {Modest Fashion Week} February 13th - 19th, 2011. I hope some of you will join in the fun! :)

~Ashley

1940 Sears Christmas Wishbook

2010-12-07T09:09:00.000-05:00

1940 Christmas Wishbook

Christmas Catalogs - 1930s - 1980s

2010-12-06T15:01:00.001-05:00

Christmas Catalogs 1930s - 1980s

Peanut Butter Fudge (Family Recipe)

2010-11-24T10:11:00.000-05:00

Peanut Butter Fudge
Time: 1 1/2 hr. before serving. 3 doz. squares. 2 lbs.

1 16-oz pkg. light brown sugar (2 c)

4 T butter

1 t vanilla

1 can evaporated milk

1 t cider vinegar

1 12-oz jar peanut butter (1 1/2 c)

1. Butter 8"x8" baking pan; set aside.

2. In heavy 3-qt pan, mix brown sugar, evap milk, butter, & vinegar; over med-low heat, heat to boiling, stir constantly. Set candy thermometer in place & continue cooking, with out stirring, until temp. reaches 238 or soft-ball stage. Remove pan from heat.

3. With wooden spoon, beat until mix begins to thicken and cool slightly. Stir in vanilla & peanut butter until well blended. Pour into pan.

4. Refrigerate fudge until firm. When cold, cut fudge in 6 strips, then cut each crosswise 6 squares.

~Ashley

A Day of Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T10:29:00.000-05:00

Pecan Pie (August 1954)

2010-11-19T16:16:00.001-05:00

Pecan Pie

Makes 1 nine-inch pie

Bake at 425 degrees F for 10 minutes, then at 325 degrees F for 35 to 45 minutes.

3 eegs

1 Cup Sugar

1 Cup Light Corn Syrup

1 TBSP melted butter

1 tsp Vanilla

Pinch of Salt

2 Cups shelled Pecans

1. Prepare pastry shell (recipe below).

2. Beat eggs slightly in large bowl; add sugar, corn syrup, butter, vanilla, and salt.

3. Beat until mixture is well blended and frothy; stir in pecans.

4. Pour into unbaked pastry shell.

5. Bake pie in hot oven (425 F) 10 minutes; reduce heat to slow (325 F) and bake 35 to 45 minutes longer, or until filling is firm in center.

Pastry Shell

Makes one nine-inch shell

1 Cup sifted flour

1/2 tsp Salt

1/3 Cup shortening

About 3 TBSP cold water

1. Sift flour and salt into medium-size bowl.

2. Cut in shortening with pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture is crumby.

3. Sprinkle water over flour-shortening mixture; mix lightly with fork until dough just holds together.

4. Roll out to a 12-inch round on lightly floured pastry cloth or board.

5. Fit into 9-inch pie plate; trim overhanging to 1/2 inch; turn overhang under, folding flush with rim of pie plate: flute edge.

Recipe from: "Family Circle: August 1954"

Image from: telegraph.co.uk

Apple Pie Recipe {Gluten-Free}

2010-11-17T12:07:00.001-05:00

Apple Pie Filling

5 C. Apples {about 5-6 apples}

1 /3 or 2/3C. Sugar {depending on taste}

1/4 C. Cornstarch or Arrowroot powder

2 tsp. Cinnamon + any spices you enjoy!

Splash of lemon juice

Add all the ingredients together in the pie crust. Bake according to your pie crust instructions.

Crisp Topping {For Pies or Crisps}

1 C. Flour {any kind. For a Gluten-free option I use almond meal from Trader Joe’s}

1 C. Oats

1/2 C. Brown sugar

1/4 C. White sugar

1 tsp. Cinnamon

1/2 C. Butter {soften}

Sprinkle of salt

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Mix well with a mixer. Crumble crumbs on top of pie.

___________________________________

Pie Crust

For the pie crust I just use a pre-made gluten-free one from Whole Foods. You can use your favorite pie crust recipe, or a pre-made one. Enjoy!

~Ashley

Cindy Goes to a Party....

2010-11-04T07:34:00.000-04:00

Vintage Recipe Sites

2010-11-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

Vintage Recipes - http://recipecurio.com/

Retro Housewife Recipes - 1940s - 1950s - 1960s - 1970s

A Vintage Recipe Collection - http://a-recipe-collection.blogspot.com/

Vintage Recipes - http://www.vintagerecipes.net/

Charming Vintage Recipes - http://charmsofdays.blogspot.com/

Grandma's Vintage Recipes - http://grandmasvintagerecipes.blogspot.com/

Purse Giveaway

2010-10-22T05:13:00.000-04:00

Go to Bramblewood Fashion and enter to win this purse. Hurry though! The giveaway ends at 10AM EST today!

Quote of the Day

2010-10-21T23:17:00.000-04:00

"Get books into your houses, when you have not the spring near you, then get water into your cisterns; so when you have not that wholesome preaching that you desire, good books are cisterns that hold the water of life in them to refresh you.... So when you find a chillness upon your souls, and that your former heat begins to abate, ply yourselves with warm clothes, get those good books that may acquaint you with such truths as may warm and affect your hearts." —Thomas Watson (1662)

painting from google images.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-09-21T10:07:00.000-04:00

Chocolate Chip Cookies
By: Ashley P. of A Girls Guide to Home Life

Oven - 375 degrees

1 C. Butter soften

1 1/4 C. Brown Sugar

1/2 C. Sugar

2 eggs

2 TBSP Milk

2 tsp Vanilla

2 C. Flour

1 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp Salt

2 C. Chocolate Chips

2 1/2 C. Oats (If, you want oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. I didn't add the oats when I made them for the seniors luncheon.)

1 tsp Cinnamon (Optional. I sometimes add this in the cookies when Fall weather comes.)

You can also add a few drops of peppermint and red sugar sprinkles around Christmas and Valentines for a holiday cookie. =)

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Beat together butter and sugars in a mixing bowl, until creamy. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla; beat well. Mix in flour, soda, and salt. Add in chocolate chips, and any of the optional ingredients now. Mix well. Drop by teaspoons, or what ever you use to scoop out cookie dough, onto a greased cookie sheet or, parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake for 9-10 minutes. Cool for a few minutes on cookie sheet before removing cookies onto a cooling rack.

~Ashley

North & South Paper dolls

2010-09-18T16:35:00.000-04:00

I found some North & South {2004} paper dolls online. Paper dolls are perfect for girls of all ages to play with. You can print these out on card stock so that your girls, sisters, granddaughters, or yourself may play with them. =)

North & South Paper Doll 1 - http://digne.livejournal.com/156008.html

North & South Paper Doll 2 - http://digne.livejournal.com/156855.html

North & South Paper Doll 3 - http://digne.livejournal.com/157119.html

North & South Paper Doll 4 - http://digne.livejournal.com/162663.html

Enjoy!

~Ashley

Quote of the Day - Audrey Hepburn

2010-09-06T06:27:00.001-04:00

I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person.
— Audrey Hepburn

Quote of the Day - Audrey Hepburn

2010-09-05T11:20:00.000-04:00

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It's the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows & the beauty of a woman only grows with passing years.

— Audrey Hepburn

The Lady's Crochet Book by: E.M.C (1877)

2010-09-04T14:55:00.000-04:00

Want some picture inspiration?

2010-06-22T19:51:00.000-04:00

Check out my tumblr were I post a bunch of vintage images that I find all over the internet. Don't worry, I will still be post here. This is just for pictures I find interesting, or may want to look back at again so I don't have to search all over the internet to find it again. =)

http://girlshomelife.tumblr.com/

P.S.
You can follow my tumblr through Google Reader.

~Ashley

Bernard-Hewitt & Co. Summer 1928 Apparel Sale Catalog

2010-06-13T14:45:00.000-04:00

Cutting-Out and Dressmaking by E. Grand'Homme (1879)

2010-06-01T14:43:00.000-04:00

Play Clay (1965)

2010-05-25T13:48:00.000-04:00

"You can make play clay for the children right in your own kitchen. To make enough for two or three children to work with you will need 2 cups baking soda (one 1-pound package), 1 cup cornstarch and 1 1/4 cups water. Mix all three together in a saucepan, heat to boiling, stirring constantly, and remove from heat as soon as mixture reaches a dough like consistency. When cool enough to handle, knead slightly.

To make enough for four to six children, follow the same procedure with three 1-pound packages of baking soda, one 1-pound package of cornstarch and 4 cups water.

To color the entire batch of clay, add food coloring or tempera paint to water before adding other ingredients. Or leave clay white and color with paint, crayon or felt tip marker when dry. Clay can be stored in a Pliofilm bag or in a airtight container and will remain pliable for several months.

Finished models will dry overnight or they may be placed in a warm turned-off oven for half an hour or parked on the radiator for an hour or two.

The number of projects that can be made from play clay is unlimited. A pretty wall plaque or paperweight could be made by rolling the clay into a ball then flatten it into a thick pancake. Press little shells, colored pebbles or snips of colored aluminum foil into the clay to form a collage-type design. Then press figures of appropriate size into center of pancake. Remove gently. Color indentation with paint or felt tip marker. Press shells or pebbles into clay around edge to form frame.

Let the children make some decorations for Christmas trees by rolling clay into balls about one inch in diameter. Insert regular Christmas tree decoration hangers or paper clips and roll ball in colored glitter.

Play clay is an inexpensive modeling material that is safe for the children to play with, won't stain clothes or furniture, and will give children hours of fun and pleasure." (The Workbasket and Home Arts Magazine Number 10 - Vol. 30 - July, 1965)

Vintage Pattern Covers

2010-05-23T18:07:00.000-04:00

I bought some vintage patterns this weekend and thought you all would like to see them.

1. 1930s ?

2. 1930s/40s ?

3. 1940s

4. 1940s

5. 1940s

6. ?

7. ?

8. 1940s ?

9. 1940s?

10. 1940s

11. 1940s

12. 1940s

13. 1940s

14. 1930s ?

15. 1958

16. 1940s

17. 1950s

If anyone knows the correct dates, or eras for the patterns with question marks. Or even if I dated some of them wrong. Please let me know! Thanks.

~Ashley

Strawberry Cream Roll (1965)

2010-05-20T19:46:00.000-04:00

Strawberry Cream Roll (1965)

Serves 10.

Cake:

4 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup sugar

1 cup of sifted cake flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling:

1/2 pint heavy cream, slightly sweeten and whipped

1 pint strawberries, sliced and sweetened

Beat eggs and vanilla at high speed of mixer or with rotary egg beater until thick and lemon colored. Gradually beat in sugar until mixture is fluffy and thick. Sift together dry ingredients and add all at once, folding them in by hand. Pour into 15x10x1-inch jelly-roll pan that has been lined with foil , lightly greased or into foil pan, lightly greased, on a cookie sheet.

Bake cake in moderate oven (375 F.) for 12 to 15 minutes or until a very light brown. (Do not overbake.) Turn out on large of foil, which has been generously sprinkled with sugar. Peel off foil lining or foil pan. Trim off crisp edges. Roll up in sugar-sprinkled foil sheet, leaving ends open, and let stand just 15 to 20 minutes. Unroll and spread with whipped cream and strawberries. Roll again and chill 1 hour in refrigerator before serving. Cover with foil during chilling. (The Workbasket and Home Arts Magazine Number 8 - Vol. 30 - May, 1965)

picture from: Life Images on Google

The Hand-book of Dress-making by: Mrs. M. J. Howell (1845)

2010-05-18T15:15:00.000-04:00

E-Pattern giveaway!

2010-05-15T17:54:00.000-04:00

There is another giveaway on my blog Bramblewood Fashion. This time it is for an e-pattern from Sense & Sensibility Patterns! But hurry, as it ends Tuesday, May 18th at 12:00PM EST.

Enter giveaway here.

~Ashley

A quote for Mother's Day

2010-05-08T15:37:00.000-04:00

The modern challenge to motherhood is the eternal challenge — that of being a godly woman. The very phrase sounds strange in our ears. We never hear it now. We hear about every other kind of women — beautiful women, smart women, sophisticated women, career woman, talented women, divorced women, but so seldom do we hear of a godly woman — or of a godly man either, for that matter.

I believe women come nearer fulfilling their God-given function in the home than anywhere else. It is a much nobler thing to be a good wife than to be Miss America. It is a greater achievement to establish a Christian home than it is to produce a second-rate novel filled with filth. It is a far, far better thing in the realm of morals to be old-fashioned than to be ultramodern. The world has enough women who know how to hold their cocktails, who have lost all their illusions and their faith. The world has enough women who know how to be smart.

It needs women who are willing to be simple. The world has enough women who know how to be brilliant. It needs some who will be brave. The world has enough women who are popular. It needs more who are pure. We need women, and men, too, who would rather be morally right that socially correct. - Peter Marshall (In 1950 before the United States Senate.)

Image from: http://www.erasofelegance.com/

My Wife by: Robert Louis Stevenson

2010-05-07T10:41:00.000-04:00

My Wife

by: Robert Louis Stevenson

TRUSTY, dusky, vivid, true,
With eyes of gold and bramble-dew,
Steel-true and blade-straight,
The great artificer
Made my mate.

Honour, anger, valour, fire;
A love that life could never tire,
Death quench or evil stir,
The mighty master
Gave to her.

Teacher, tender, comrade, wife,
A fellow-farer true through life,
Heart-whole and soul-free
The august father
Gave to me.

Image: "In the Garden" by: Charles Schweninger from: http://www.erasofelegance.com

A Giveaway....

2010-05-03T17:14:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! I'm having a giveaway on my other blog, Bramblewood Fashion. Go and check it out. But hurry! As it ends on May 9th. =)

~Ashley

Textiles and Clothing by Kate Heintz Watson (1911)

2010-04-16T14:30:00.000-04:00

"The Liberty Song" - John Dickinson

2010-04-15T06:47:00.001-04:00

The Liberty Song

by: John Dickinson

Come, join hand in hand, brave Americans all,
And rouse your bold hearts at fair Liberty's call;
No tyrannous acts shall suppress your just claim,
Or stain with dishonor America's name.

Chorus:
In Freedom we're born and in Freedom we'll live.
Our purses are ready. Steady, friends, steady;
Not as slaves, but as Freemen our money we'll give.

Our worthy forefathers, let's give them a cheer,
To climates unknown did courageously steer;
Thro' oceans to deserts for Freedom they came,
And dying, bequeath'd us their freedom and fame.

Chorus

The tree their own hands had to Liberty rear'd,
They lived to behold growing strong and revered;
With transport they cried, Now our wishes we gain,
For our children shall gather the fruits of our pain.

Chorus

Then join hand in hand, brave Americans all,
By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall;
In so righteous a cause let us hope to succeed,
For heaven approves of each generous deed.

Chorus

Picture taken by me in Lexington, MA.

Quote of the Day

2010-04-14T18:28:00.000-04:00

"The faith of the church must be tried by God's Word, and not God's Word by the church; neither yet my faith." ~Lady Jane Grey

The Millinery Depatment by: Charlotte Rankin Aiken (1918)

2010-04-07T11:42:00.000-04:00

Ladies of the Reformation by: Rev. James Anderson (1855)

2010-03-19T12:23:00.000-04:00

The Good Housekeeping Hostess (1904)

2010-03-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

As Unto The Bow

2010-03-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

As Unto The Bow

by: Henry Wadworth Longfellow

As unto the bow the cord is,

So unto the man is to woman:

Though she bends him, she obeys him;

Though she draws him, yet she follows;

Useless each without the other.

Image: Godspeed (1900) by: Edmund Blair Leighton from: http://www.erasofelegance.com

Treasures in Needlework by: Mrs. Warren and Mrs. Pullan (1855)

2010-03-01T12:52:00.000-05:00

Godey's Lady Magazine (1858)

2010-02-26T05:50:00.000-05:00

Quote of the Day

2010-02-25T14:51:00.001-05:00

"For one, I care but little for the government which presides at Washington in comparison with the government which rules the eight or ten millions of American homes. No administration can seriously harm us if our home-life is pure, frugal, and godly. No statesmanship or legislation can save us, if once our homes become the abodes of ignorance or the nestling-places of profligacy. The home rules the nation. If the home is demoralized it will ruin it."

- Theodore Kuyler

Image: On the Threshhold (1900) by: Edmund Blair Leighton from: http://www.erasofelegance.com

Bridal Fashion of the 1950s

2010-02-24T12:21:00.001-05:00

I have always enjoyed looking at wedding dresses from the 1950s since I first watched Father of the Bride (1950), with Elizabeth Taylor, Spencer Tracy, and Joan Bennett.

After picking up a copy of Bride’s Late Spring/Summer 1950 last January; I fell in love with the designs all over again. You would too looking through the magazine. The wedding dresses found within this magazine would still work today. Especially if you are into vintage clothing, old movies, or just dressing modestly. For wedding dresses of the 50s were: feminine, ladylike, elegant, unique (unlike most of today’s wedding dresses), and just plain breathtaking!

Here is a sampling of the wedding gowns found within my copy of Bride’s magazine.

~Ashley

Elsie Dinsmore by: Martha Finley (1896)

2010-02-21T17:16:00.001-05:00

_______________________________________

I have exciting news. Today I reached my 50th post. And yesterday I received my 50th follower! Hurray!

A Mother's Love by: James Montgomery

2010-02-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

A Mother's Love by: James Montgomery

A Mother's Love, - how sweet the name!

What is a Mother's love?

-a noble, pure, and tender flame,

Enkindled from above,

To bless a heart of earthly mould;

The warmest love that can grow cold;

This is a Mother’s Love.

To bring a helpless babe to light,

Then, while it lies forloen,

To gaze upon that dearest sight,

And feel herself new-born,

In its existence lose her own,

And live and breathe in it alone;

This is a Mother’s Love.

Its weakness in her arms to bear;

To cherish on her breast,

Feed it from Love’s own fountain there,

And lull it there to rest;

Then, while it slumbers, watch its breath,

As if to guard from instant death;

This is a Mother’s Love.

To mark its growth from day to day,

Its opening charms admire,

Catch from its eye the earliest ray

Of intellectual fire;

To smile and listen while it talks,

And lend a finger when it walks;

This is a Mother’s Love.

And can a Mother’s Love grow cold?

Can she forget her boy?

His pleading innocence behold,

Nor weep for grief – for joy?

A Mother may forget her child,

While wolves devour it on the wild;

Is this a Mother’s Love?

Ten thousand voices answer “No!”

Ye clasp your babes and kiss;

Your bosoms yearn, your eyes o’erflow;

Yet, ah! Remember this, -

The infant, rear’d alone for earth,

May live, may die,- to curse his birth;

-Is this a Mother’s Love?

A parent’s heart may prove a snare;

The child she loves so well,

Her hand may lead, with gentlest care,

Down the smooth road to hell;

Nourish its frame,-destory its mind:

Thus do the blind mislead the blind,

Even with a Mother’s Love.

Blest infant! Whom his mother taught

Early to seek the Lord,

And pour’d upon his dawning thought

The day-spring of the word;

This was the lesson to her son

-Time is Eternity begun:

Behold that Mother’s Love.

Blest Mother! Who, in wisdom’s path

By her own parent trod,

Thus taught her son to flee the wrath,

And know the fear, of God:

Ah, youth! Like him enjoy your prime;

Begin Eternity in time,

Taught by that Mother’s Love.

That Mother’s Love! –how sweet the name!

What was that Mother’s Love?

-The noblest, purest, tenderest flame,

That kindles from above,

Within a heart of earthly mould,

As much of heaven as heart can hold,

Nor through eternity grows cold:

This was that Mother’s Love.

Image: "The Teeter-Totter" by: Frederick Morgan from: http://www.erasofelegance.com

Godey's Lady Book (1876)

2010-02-19T18:15:00.000-05:00

Fashion Images - 1940s

2010-02-18T12:29:00.000-05:00

Here are a bunch of photos from the 1940s for inspiration.

~Ashley
Images from: http://images.google.com/hosted/life

From My Collection - Vintage Crocheting and Knitting Magazines & Patterns

2010-02-17T17:01:00.001-05:00

Last Friday I went to a book sale, it was half-price day, and I found some wonderful vintage crocheting and knitting magazines & patterns for only a nickle each. How delightful! Even if I don't know how to knit, or even know how to crochet well enough to use the patterns, yet. I love looking through them for inspiration and a glimpse to the past. =)

They are from a variety of years ranging from 1941-1965.

~Ashley

Betsy McCall - vintage paper doll

2010-02-15T15:55:00.000-05:00

On a wonderful sewing board I'm on this was shared today. A link to a free vintage paper doll (1950s-60s). The clothing is delightful! Full of wonderful vintage inspiration. And if printed off on card-stock paper, they are prefect for little girls to play with. Or any paper doll fan. :)

Betsy McCall - the first ten years

McCall’s Magazines from the 1940s

2010-02-11T11:43:00.003-05:00

I believe that magazines from the 1940s are the best! I have, let me think here, three and they are all McCall’s.

What I like about the copies of McCall’s from the forties is that, they are organized into three three distinct sections: “Fiction and News,” “Home Making,” and “Style and Beauty.” My favorite sections are the latter two.

In the homemaking section I have found many recipes I would love to try. And as my copies are from the WWII era, they talk about saving/rationing certain ingredients to help win the war. Someday I hope to try some of the recipes. When I do I’ll post my results here.

The style and beauty section has listings of the current trends and patterns. They also tell you how to reuse your old clothing, tablecloth’s, etc, into something new to save fabric. Sometimes I do this myself with clothing, but not often. Like when ever I through away an old article of clothing, I look for a couple things. First, buttons I can use again. Second, trim that is not torn or unusable in any way. Thirdly, see if I can’t use the fabric in some other way. Though mostly I will just through it away at this point. For it is mostly clothing that I have had for years and I am sick of the fabric and ready for change.

Here are a bunch of pictures from my magazines:

~Ashley

The Lady's Book by Godey (1831)

2010-02-08T06:34:00.001-05:00

Prisoners of the Sea by: Florence M. Kingsley (1897)

2010-02-05T12:41:00.000-05:00

Againet Idleness and Mischief by: Isaac Watts

2010-02-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

Against Idleness and Mischief

by: Isaac Watts

How doth the little busy bee

Improve each shining hour,

And gather honey all the day

From every opening flower!

How skilfully she builds her cell!

How neat she spreads the wax!

And labours hard to store it well

With the sweet food she makes.

In works of labour or of skill

I would be busy too:

For Satan finds some mischief still

For idle hands to do.

In books, or works, or healthful play

Let my first years be past,

That I may give for every day

Some good account at last.

Image: "Untitled"`by: Jessie Willcox Smith from: http://www.erasofelegance.com/

Hat-Making

2010-02-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

I found this resource through a wonderful forum I visit. And I thought you'll would enjoy looking through it too! :D It's an excerpt from a old book on hat-making from around the early 20th century.

Click to see here.

~Ashley

Pages from Pearson's Magazine (1902)

2010-01-25T00:22:00.000-05:00

Just some pages from Pearson's Magazine. I found these on Goggle books a couple months ago and never saved the link. :P So, I can't link to the original source and for you to see the rest of the magazine. Sorry.

The Ladies Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness by: Florence Hartley (1872)

2010-01-22T06:55:00.001-05:00

Old Time Radio

2010-01-21T19:53:00.000-05:00

My family and I enjoy listening to those good old radio shows of the 1930s-1950s. And lo, and behold we have made a wonderful discovery! You can download radio shows that are in the public domain for FREE at: http://www.archive.org/details/oldtimeradio.

They have many wonderful selections, such as:
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
The Roy Rogers Show
Cavalcade of America
American History Through The Eyes of Radio
KIBM Presents Christmas Playhouse
Lux Radio Theater

Try searching around on the site for something you love that is old and classic (example: Bing Crosby, Jimmy Stewart, Shirley Temple, Deanna Durbin, etc…), as they have more then just radio shows. They have music, movies, and TV shows too.

Home Defined by: Charles Swain

2010-01-20T23:37:00.000-05:00

The Young Ladies Journal - Complete Guide to the Work-Table (1885)

2010-01-19T21:01:00.001-05:00

Pineapple Fingers (Recipe from "Woman's Home Companion" Magazine {November 1937})

2010-01-18T22:30:00.000-05:00

Pineapple Fingers

2 Cups of Flour

3 1/2 teaspoons of Baking Powder

1/2 teaspoon of Salt

1Tablespoon of Sugar

6 Tablespoons of Butter

1 Egg Yolk Beaten

1/3 Cup of Milk

Crushed Pineapple

1. Sift flour; measure, add baking powder, salt, sugar; sift again.

2. Work in butter with fingertips or pastry blender.

3. Add egg yolk and milk to form stiff dough.

4. Roll out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Spread with softened butter, then with crushed pineapple, well drained.

5. Start rolling from one side until roll is 3/4-inch in diameter (about three turns) and cut off. then cut this roll into three-inch lengths. Repeat for remainder of rolled-out dough.

6. Placed on baking sheet. Brush with egg white diluted with water; sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 475 degrees F. for 10 to 12 minutes. About 24 fingers.

From: Woman's Home Companion Magazine (November 1937)

Picture from: Google Life Images.

Nobody Knows But Mother

2010-01-18T13:58:00.001-05:00

Nobody Knows But Mother

By: Mary Morrison

How many buttons are missing today?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many playthings are strewn in her way?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many thimbles and spools has she missed?
How many burns on each fat little fist?
How many bumps to be cuddled and kissed?
Nobody knows but Mother.

How many hats has she hunted today?
Nobody knows but Mother.
Carelessly hiding themselves in the hay
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many handkerchiefs wilfully strayed?
How many ribbons for each little maid?
How for her care can a mother be paid?
Nobody knows but Mother.

How many muddy shoes all in a row?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many stockings to darn, do you know?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many little torn aprons to mend?
How many hours of toil must she spend?
What is the time when her day's work shall end?
Nobody knows but Mother.

How many lunches for Tommy and Sam?
Nobody knows but Mother.
Cookies and apples and blackberry jam
Nobody knows but Mother.
Nourishing dainties for every "sweet tooth,'
Toddling Dottie or dignified Ruth-
How much love sweetens the labor, forsooth?
Nobody knows but Mother.

How many cares does a mother's heart know?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many joys from her mother love flow?
Nobody knows but Mother.
How many prayers for each little white bed?
How many tears for her babes has she shed?
How many kisses for each curly head?
Nobody knows but Mother.

Painting: "Motherly Love" by Frederick Morgan from Eras of Elegance

A Peep Behind the Scenes by: Mrs. O. F. Walton (1885)

2010-01-17T21:00:00.000-05:00

How To Be A Lady: A Book For Girls by: Harvey Newcomb (1850)

2010-01-11T22:37:00.000-05:00

The Workwoman's Guide by: A Lady (1840)

2010-01-10T16:44:00.001-05:00

Sewing Primer, with Songs and Music: for Schools and Families (1886)

2010-01-07T07:00:00.008-05:00

"The Delineator" Magazine Online

2010-01-06T19:30:00.000-05:00

I have exciting news! You can read several issues of The Delineator magazine online on Google books. (Click on the picture on the side) This is a delightful old magazine full of fashion, sewing tips, stories, adds, and just packed full of vintage lovelies! :D

I was blessed to find two issues for myself last January - they are two of my many vintage treasures. I hope to scan some of the pages for your enjoyment soon.

My favorite section in the whole magazine is called The Dressmaker. Perfect for the seamstress who loves sewing pieces inspired from 1873 - 1937 (the years the magazine was published by Butterick).

The Daisy Chain by Charlotte M. Yonge (1895)

2010-01-05T22:13:00.000-05:00

Just wishing you all...

2009-12-25T10:56:00.000-05:00

a very Merry Christmas!!!! :D

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”- Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

Practical Housewifery by: C. F. Picton-Gadsden (1905)

2009-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged!

2009-12-15T12:23:00.000-05:00

Thank you "Elinor" of Hooks and Needles for the tag.

1. Thank the person who gave the award.

2. Copy the award.

3. Post it on your blog.

4. Tell seven things about yourself that your readers don't know.

5. Link seven new bloggers as recipients.

6. Notify the winners with comments on their blogs.

7. Keep being awesome!

1. When I was at the Sufficiency of Scripture conference this past weekend, I was able to meet Apphia, Acacia, and Abigail Long of Marie-Madeline Studios.

2. I have always wanted to go discover Noah's Ark.

3. I tend to like Elizabeth Gaskell's books and movie adaptions better then Jane Austen ones.

4. My favorite period drama is North & South.

5. I love to ice-skate.

6. One of my new favorite Christmas songs is Tennessee Christmas - Amy Grant.

7. Though my all-time favorite Christmas song is between God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, The Little Drummer Boy, or Carol of the Bells. :D

I tag the following:

1. The Long Girls at Marie-Madeline Studios.

And who ever wants to do this tag! Just let me know if you do it, as I would like to see it. :D

The White House Cook Book by: Mrs. Fanny L. Gillette (1887)

2009-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

Cooking for Two: A Handbook for Young Housekeepers (1909)

2009-12-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

The Boston Cooking-School Cook Book by: Fannie Farmer (1916)

2009-12-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

Household Sewing with Home Dressmaking (1898)

2009-12-09T07:00:00.006-05:00

Historic Dress in America, 1800 - 1870 (1910)

2009-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Science of Home Making: A Textbook in Home Economics (1915)

2009-12-05T14:14:00.002-05:00

1890 (April - September) - The Home-Maker: An illustrated monthly magazine

2009-12-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

I found this delightful magazine on Google books, and thought it to be perfect for my post on the 1890s. This magazine covers various subjects, among them are: fashion, cooking, gardening, art, stories, housekeeping, etc.... I think you all will enjoy browsing through the magazine.

Grace Kelly's Wedding Dress

2009-11-30T11:41:00.002-05:00

I recently made a remarkable discovery! Vogue patterns has a pattern that is a very close copy to Grace Kelly's Wedding dress. How exciting is that?!? I have loved Grace Kelly's dress ever since I first saw it on a paper doll we have. :D

Another plus about this dress is that it has sleeves! And it is modest. You just need to change the front to be higher like Grace Kelly's. ;)

May I also recommend that you check out, Grace Kelly: Icon of Style to Royal Bride. It has some lovely pictures and diagrams of her wedding dress. Plus, it has quite a few pictures of her other dresses, all of which are lovely!

Side news: If any of my readers will be in London between April 17th and September 26th in 2010, you may be interested in seeing a display at the V&A on Grace Kelly.

Here is what the V&A website has to say about the exhibition.

The spectacular wardrobe of Grace Kelly will be on display at the V&A. Tracing the evolution of her style from her days as one of Hollywood's most popular actresses in the 1950s and as Princess Grace of Monaco, the display will present over 50 of Grace Kelly's outfits together with hats, jewelery and the original Hermès Kelly bag. Dresses from her films, including High Society, will be shown as well as the gown she wore to accept her Oscar award in 1955. These will be accompanied by film clips and posters, photographs and her Oscar statuette. The display will also include the lace ensemble worn by Grace Kelly for her civil marriage ceremony to Prince Rainier in 1956 and 35 haute couture gowns from the 1960s and 70s by her favorite couturiers Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy, and Yves St Laurent.

~Ashley

I just want to wish you all a....

2009-11-26T11:37:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you all have a wonderful day! :)

^"Come, let us sing to the Lord!
      Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come to him with thanksgiving.
      Let us sing psalms of praise to him.
For the Lord is a great God,
      a great King above all gods.
He holds in his hands the depths of the earth
      and the mightiest mountains.
The sea belongs to him, for he made it.
      His hands formed the dry land, too.

Come, let us worship and bow down.
      Let us kneel before the Lord our maker,
     for he is our God.
   We are the people he watches over,
      the flock under his care...." (Psalm 95: 1-7)

~Ashley

Image from: http://www.curtispublishing.com/gallery/categories/thanksgiving.htm

1910s - Some links I forgot... :-)

2009-11-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

Ladies' Travelling Ulster (Overcoat), 1910

1912 Frocks for Christmas (Evening Dress) - Part Two

1912 - 14 Custom drafted skirt in 3, 5 and 7 Gores

Two Edwardian Blouses, c.1910

A New Coiffure from 1917 - A 1917 hairstyle.

Gowns for a 1917 Bride and Bridesmaid

Ladies Handkerchief Camisoles 1912 & 1908

Sewing Stitches, From The Dressmaker, Butterick 1911

The Ladies Tailor, Vol. XXVII. No. 3 March 1911, London - shows patterns of assorted hobble skirts, and Titanic era suits.

Anne Shirley's Wedding Dress pattern

~Ashley
Image from: http://www.sensibility.com/vintageimages/index.htm

A Girls Guide to Home Life has been tagged!

2009-11-21T17:34:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Elizabeth J. at "Modest Blends", I've been tagged! Yippee! So, I am to say seven things that no ones knows about me. :-) Here we go....

1. We use to have a yellow lab named Braveheart, after William Wallace.
2. My all-time favorite movie is the Sound of Music. At one point I had memorized all the songs in the movie. I have the Broadway version of the scrip for school plays. I have read Marie Von Trapp's books. And have music sheets from both the Broadway and movie versions of the songs. :-)
3. I have over 300 patterns! :O These were collected over a spanned of almost 4 years (in March).
4. I enjoy shopping on Black Friday to find great deals. :P
5.I taught myself to dance tap, ballet, ballroom, and Contra by watching movies.
6. Decoding codes and solving mysteries are one of my favorite things to do!
7. My favorite book series is probably The Five Little Peppers.

The five people I tag are....

Anna Kristine of "The Art of Clothes" - I love all the inspiration she shares on her blog and upcoming movie news.

Shannon of "Thoughts and Thimbles" - She is always sewing up lovely projects that inspire me.

Emme of "Songs I Sing" - For her love of old Hollywood movies.

Beth Ann of "Genuine Beauty" - For her fun fashion-y tips and advice.

Rebecca of "icebluechick" - Just because I love reading her blog.

~Ashley

1910s - Patterns and Images

2009-11-21T17:03:00.001-05:00

There are quite a few patterns and image sites out there for you to create a 1910s assemble. Here is a list resources that I know of for sewing patterns and images for inspiration. :-)

Marquise - Patterns of the 1910s, 20s and 30s - A marvelous site were you can download patterns for free from original sources.

Sensibility.com - Vintage images 1900-1919 - One of the first sites I discovered in my beginnings of costuming. This is one of my favorite sites to visit.

Sensibility.com - Titanic Era Patterns 1911-1914 - My favorite pattern company.

Hint of History - 1910s Collection - Vintage-inspired patterns for today.

Past Patterns - 1900 - 1919s - A wide assortment of patterns for everyone in the family.

Dressmaking Research - 1910s Dress - You can find original sources here, including Delineator dressmaking lesson 1915 and McCall's dressmaking lesson 1917.

VintageSewing.info - Vintage Sewing Books in the Public Domain - There are two books on this site that are from the 1910s. Tailored Skirts, Woman's Institute of Domestic Arts & Sciences, by Mary Brooks Picken (1916) and American Dressmaking Step by Step, A complete, simplified method of sewing, dressmaking and tailoring, by Mme. Lydia Trattles Coates (1917).

Out-of-Print Butterick Patterns - 1914 Blouse pattern and 1914 Skirt pattern (I'm in the process of making this skirt right now. So far this is the only 1910s pattern I have used personally.)

Do you know of any sources that are not on my list? If you know of more, just leave a comment to let us all know of that website, pattern, book, etc. Or, have you ever made something from the 1910s, or inspired from the era. I would love to see it!

~Ashley

Image from: http://www.sensibility.com/vintageimages/1900s/pagetwo.htm

Poll Results

2009-11-11T11:52:00.003-05:00

I was curious on what all of your favorite eras were for clothing. That way I would know what my dear readers would enjoy seeing. :-) Within the coming weeks you will posts on each winner with 4 or more votes, may that be on fashion, book reviews, scans of old books or magazines. Sound like fun? Here are your winners:

1. The 1950s with 11 votes

2. 1900s with 9 votes

3. 1940s with 8 votes

4. 17th Century and earlier with 7 votes

5. 1790s with 7 votes

6. 1930s with 7 votes

7. 1800s with 6 votes

8. 1920s with 5 votes

9. 1780s with 4 votes

10. 1810s with 4 votes

11. 1820s with 4 votes

12. 1860s with 4 votes

13. 1890s with 4 votes

14. 1910s with 4 votes

I'll be working backwards through the list, leaving the best for last. :)

Up First: 1910s (one of my favorites).

The Need of the Hour

2009-11-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Need of the Hour

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

What does our country need? Not armies standing

With sabers gleaming ready for the fight;

Not increased navies, skillful and commanding;

To bound the waters with an iron might;

Not haughty men with glutted purses trying

To purchase souls, and keep the power of the place;

Not jeweled dolls with one another vying

For palms of beauty, elegance, and grace.

But we want women, strong of soul, yet lowly

With that rare meekness, born of gentleness;

Women whose lives are pure and clean and holy,

The women whom all little children bless;

Brave, earnest women, helpful to each other,

With finest scorn for all things low and mean;

Women who hold the names of wife and mother

Far nobler than the title of a queen.

Oh! These are they who mold the men of story,

These mothers, ofttime shorn of grace and youth,

Who, worn and weary, ask no greater glory

Than making some young soul the home of truth;

Who sow in hearts all fallow for the sowing

The seeds of virtue and of scorn for sin,

And, patient, watch the beauteous harvest growing

And weed out tares which crafty hands cast in.

Women who do not hold the gift of beauty

As some rare treasure to be bought and sold,

But guard it as a precious aid to duty—

The outer framing of the inner gold;

Women who, low above their cradles bending,

Let flattery's voice go by, and give no heed,

While their pure prayers like incense are ascending

These are our country's pride, our country's need.

Charles Perugini Painting from Era's of Elegance.

Your High Calling

2009-11-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Mother, who ever you may be,

You may think long and earnestly

Of your high calling. Pondering

The undreamed honor of the thing;

Learning how God, through you, would plan

To be well know to every man.

And through your arms would gather fast

The whole world to His heart at last.

by: Fay Inchfawn

"Motherhood" painting by: Charles Schweninger from Eras of Elegance.

In Such an Hour

2009-11-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

     Sometimes, when everything goes wrong:
     When days are short, and nights are long;
     When wash-day brings so dull a sky
     That not a single thing will dry.
     And when the kitchen chimney smokes,
     And when there's naught so "queer" as folks!
     When friends deplore my faded youth,
     And when the baby cuts a tooth.
     While John, the baby last but one,
     Clings round my skirts till day is done;
     When fat, good-tempered Jane is glum,
     And butcher's man forgets to come.

     Sometimes, I say, on days like these,
     I get a sudden gleam of bliss.
     "Not on some sunny day of ease,
     He'll come . . but on a day like this!"
     And, in the twinkling of an eye,
     These tiresome things will all go by!

     And, 'tis a curious thing, but Jane
     Is sure, just then, to smile again;
     Or, out the truant sun will peep,
     And both the babies fall asleep.
     The fire burns up with roar sublime,
     And butcher's man is just in time.
     And oh! My feeble faith grows strong
     Sometimes, when everything goes wrong!

by: Fay Inchfawn

Cocoa Continental

2009-11-01T17:03:00.002-05:00

Cocoa Continental

4 servings

Blend in saucepan:

2 tablespoons of cocoa

3 tablespoons of sugar

1/8 teaspoon of salt

Then stir in 1/2 cup of hot water.

Bring to boil over low heat and boil 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Then add and heat, but do not boil:

2 cups of milk.

Drop a marshmallow into each cup and pour hot cocoa over it.

From: Betty Crocker's Cook Book for Boys and Girls (1957)

Quote of the Day

2009-10-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

When I put on longer skirts I shall feel that I have to live up to them and be very dignified. (Anne of Green Gables, XXX)

"It Pays To Be Agreeable"

2009-10-30T16:27:00.000-04:00

"It pays to be agreeable. We are all like huge magnets, and we tend to attract those things which we ourselves send out. If we are coarse and unrefined, we attract to our company those people who are also coarse and unrefined. If we are disagreeable and unmindful of the rights of others, they in turn will be disagreeable to us, and unmindful of our rights. And similarly, if we are kind and agreeable, we are bound to meet and attract people of the same kind.

There is a pretty little story of a woman and a child, in which the simple friendliness of a little girl opened the door for a woman whose life had been embittered by much hardship and disappointment. She was strolling one day through a mountain farm-house. she did not know where she was going, and she did not care. She just wanted to forget, forget.

She stopped near a well and gazed angrily about her, wondering how there could be so much peace and quite in a world that held nothing but turmoil and heartache for her. She was an attractive woman, and her smart clothes and haughty bearing was a disappointing contrast to her scowling face and angry eyes.

Suddenly she glanced down. A tiny girl was watching her intently - a little girl who had lived all her seven short years in the untutored expanse of the mountains. The woman was annoyed, and she did not hesitate to show it.

'What are you looking at; what do you want?' she demanded irritably.

Instead of returning the frown, the child smiled and stepped a little closer. 'I was just thinking how pretty you face would be if you smiled instead of frowned,' she answered.

The woman's face relaxed. The bitter look in the eyes vanished and was replaced by a bright new light. The scowl became a greatful smile, and with an impulsive sob of pure joy, she knelt down and hugged the little girl who had been the first in a long time to speak gently to her, the first in a long time to return her frowns with sincere smiles of friendliness. And when she finally left the little child, and returned to the exacting conventionlities of the town, she was a nobler, better and finer woman.

The simple heart of a child who knew no other creedor or law then the sincere love of all mankind triumphed over the bitterness of a woman who had known years of education and worldliness.

Culture is of the heart and spirit rather than of the outward appearance. But it is by what we do and say that we prove that it truly exists within us."

From: Book of Etiquette Vol. 1 By: Lillian Eichler Copyright: 1921

Christmas Gifts

2009-10-29T15:08:00.001-04:00

"Gifts that can be used, or that really give pleasure to the person receiving them, are the proper ones to select. Gifts that cannot be used or enjoyed by those receiving them show either bad taste or else a lack of thought on the part of the donor. A beautiful Christmas card may give more pleasure to some persons than any other gift that could be selected. It is not the cost, but its fitness, that makes the worth-while gift." (Elementary Home Economics)

Hand-made gifts are especially desirable, because they represent time and thought spent for the purpose of giving pleasure to those receiving the gifts. The following are simple gifts that can be made at home.

Potholders
Pillowcase
Doll Dresses
Drawstring Purse
Apron
Decorative Pillow

How To - Prilgrim Mother Costume

2009-10-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

Pilgrim Mother - Full, plain skirt, white kerchief, small white cap, and large spectacles. A gentleman's linen handkerchief, put around the neck and crossed over the bosom, answers for a kerchief. The cap, too, can be made of a large handkerchief in this way.

Fold the handkerchief in the manner shown in Fig. 206; lay it flat upon a table, and turn the folded corners over as in Fig. 207; turn up the bottom edge over the other, and roll over about three times (Fig. 208); take the handkerchief up by the ends and the cap (Fig. 209) is made.

From: The American Girls Handy Book by: Lina Beard and Adelia B. Beard
Copyright: 1887

Directions For Working in the Sewing Room

2009-10-28T21:36:00.002-04:00

Personal appearance: The hands should be washed before beginning any sewing. With a wool dress or skirt some kind of sewing-apron should be worn, so that the work will not become soiled from rubbing over the dress.

Position: Sit erect with back against chair and with feet on the floor. Hold the work so that there is no need for stooping over. Never pin work to your knee when sewing. Sitting with a table in front of you, when sewing, is the best plan.

Care of work: Needles should never be left in the material when one has finished sewing, because dampness may cause the needle to rust and this injures the material. Thread-ends on all spools should be slipped through the groove made for that purpose. The tape-line should be neatly folded, and all other equipment in the sewing-box placed in order. All materials used should be neatly folded before they are placed in the box, basket, or bag.

From ~ Elementary Home Economics: Cookery, Sewing, and Care of Home by: Mary Lockwood Matthews Copyright: 1921

Welcome!

2009-10-28T21:19:00.000-04:00

Welcome my dear readers! Through this blog I'll be sharing with you all various subjects of home life. Mostly the forgotten arts of home life, like sewing, cooking, etiquette, etc....

Ashley