Country Living articles from December 2003

Country Living archives from December 2003

In this issue.(editor's journal)
December 1, 2003... In this issue in this issue we celebrate the sparkle of the season with homes from coast to coast, beginning with the Oregon home of Diane and Jay Speakman (see "Holiday Glitter" on page 88). Avid collectors with a keen eye for design and...

Finding the forest plaques through the trees.(dear country living)(Letter to the Editor)
December 1, 2003... Since the devastating fires of 1988, I've read about and applauded your reforestation efforts in the Gallatin National Forest at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park ("The Country Living Forest," by Marylou Krajci, Save Our Countryside,...

The end of a magazine collection, almost.(dear country living)(Letter to the Editor)
December 1, 2003... I kept every issue of Country Living from 1984 until 1995, when my family moved from Colorado to Oklahoma and my husband declared that he had moved the magazines from one end of Oklahoma to another to Colorado and then back to Oklahoma and he...

Corrections.(dear country living)(Correction Notice)
December 1, 2003... The photography from the 1984 section of "The Grells' Update" (October 2003, pages 172-179) was by Al Teufen. In October's column What Is It? What Is It Worth? we mistakenly identified an early-20th-century sampler hooked rug in an Album...

Happy holidays!(country classics)
December 1, 2003... under $25 1 Perfect for the baseball fan on your Christmas list, Forest Saver's handmade Happy Holidays genuine-leather baseballs ($24.95 ea.) come gift boxed in artificial turf. Forestsaver.com; (800) 777-9886. 2 Santa can't miss Party...

The art of giving.('cross country)
December 1, 2003... This season, choose gifts that help support your favorite charities. All proceeds from designer Christopher Radko's Groovy Hearts Ornament (above; $40) go to the Texas-based M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Children's Art Project, which funds...

Great finds.('cross country)
December 1, 2003... GREAT FINDS For a final festive touch, dress up Hanukkah gifts and party favors with Groovy Holidays' colorful felt gift bags. The soft, compact totes (small, $6; large, $9) are also great for storing leftover Hanukkah candles and dreidels for...

Inn of the month.('cross country)
December 1, 2003... Experience Christmastime in the country at the Tamworth Inn, in New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley. Located on Main Street in the picturesque village of Tamworth, the cozy inn has 16 antiques-filled rooms, a pub, and a sunny glass-enclosed...

Web giveaway.('cross country)
December 1, 2003... WEB GIVEAWAY Enter your name at countryliving.com by January 1 to be eligible to win a Drexel Heritage bookcase (28"W x 14"D x 46"H; retail value: $1,109). Part of the collection Accents Francais, the bookcase has bronze and iron accents and an...

What's your opinion?('cross country)(Brief Article)
December 1, 2003... In a recent survey on our Web site 54.2% of our readers said they plan to keep in touch with their friends and family this season by mailing holiday cards. Where do you shop most often for your home? Take part in our on-line survey, then...

Holiday craft ideas.('cross country)(Book Review)
December 1, 2003... Donata Maggipinto (left), the food and entertaining director of Williams-Sonoma, has a simple Christmas mantra: "Focus on the meaningful. Do less. Enjoy the holiday more." In her new book, Christmas Family Gatherings (Chronicle Books; $22.95),...

Celebrating cottage style: in their store, two sisters pay tribute to the way grandma decorated.(shop talk)(Brief Article)
December 1, 2003... For years, Aileen Mahoney Heyen's hobby was combing estate sales for antique and vintage home furnishings. "Then my husband finally said, 'Stop! If you bring one more thing into this house, I'm boarding it up!'" says Aileen. "So I started...

Christmas in Kennebunkport: during its old-fashioned Christmas celebration, this charming seaside village in Maine shines bright.(on the road)
December 1, 2003... Surprise. Sweet, snowy surprise. Winter may be the finest time to visit Kennebunkport the Maine resort town best known as the streamer home of former President Bush. Each December, the historic seaside municipality shows off its small-town...

Believe in the magic of the holidays: and bring cherished traditions home with holiday gift sets from department 56[R].(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... twinkling lights, festive decorations, a wintry backdrop... all evoke the warmth and happy anticipation of the holidays. 'Tis the season when friends and family seem extra-special. When it seems possible, once again, to believe in everything...

Abundant cheer: two folk art dealers share their ideas for creating a magical tree and a lively table using bright colors and vintage ornaments.(decorator's notebook)(Brief Article)(Cover Story)
December 1, 2003... magical trees Here, Phil Montana and Avram Finkelstein (above, left and right), owners of the Rhinebeck, N.Y., antiques and folk art shop Gold Goat, offer their ideas for a well-trimmed tree: the right height Choose a tree that is...

The noble yew: stately and pedigreed, these evergreens deserve a second look.(your garden)
December 1, 2003... Ah, the yew. Once the object of reverence and worship, this magnificent tree (please note I did not say shrub, but more on that later) has come to play a less and less significant role in the modern landscape. Often relegated to a tiny space...

Small wonders of art: festive, fanciful, and eye-catching, Christmas pins captivate collectors.(collecting)
December 1, 2003... Long cherished as tokens of affection presented to loved ones during the holidays, Christmas pins are sought today for their dazzling designs, brilliant colors, and festive motifs. "There are so many ways to decorate a Christmas tree, and the...

Holiday paper crafts: decorate your home, table, tree, and gifts with an assortment of handmade paper projects.(simple projects)
December 1, 2003... paper possibilities With just some paper, scissors, and a few simple decorative touches, you can fill your home with festive handmade crafts that are perfect for the holidays. From scallop-edged gift tags to whimsical baking-cup Christmas...

The last day of christmas: one family's tradition lets holiday cheer and merriment linger into the new year.(kids in the country)
December 1, 2003... THE ANGEL ORNAMENT'S WING IS BROKEN. THE penguin is missing one of its skis. The star at the top of the Christmas tree is tarnished and bent. In the excitement and giddy rush of decorating for the holiday season, little things like these...

Reader tips: holiday traditions.(Advertisement)(Letter to the Editor)
December 1, 2003... Our readers share the traditions that make their holidays memorable. Try these tips, or create your own to make your holiday a special one! EXTENDED HOLIDAY My grandparents started the tradition of the "New Year's Fairy" as a...

Country holiday entertaining.(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Food, family, festive gatherings... it just wouldn't seem like the holidays without them! Now's the time of year to really pull out the stops: dressing your home, trying new recipes, merging time-honored traditions with something new and Even...

Enjoying the creamy delights: a tasty treat is easy with these two elegant no-bake desserts!(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... When company's coming, what's more welcome than a dessert that's easy to make, yet elegant to serve? COOL WHIP's newest flavor, French Vanilla, brings a touch of continental flair to some favorite recipes. It combines the creaminess of COOL...

Setting the tone: with candles, you can create a mood that's cheery and festive, or sultry and romantic.(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Candles can be both soothing and invigorating, offering a boost to the spirit as well as a note of relaxation. Best of all, they're welcome just about anywhere. At holiday time, Glade[R] Candles are a superb way to create just right ambiance....

Savoring the treats: indulge your sweet tooth with these yummy desserts!(Advertisement)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... As the holidays near, there's one classic everyone looks forward to... dessert! Whether it's a timeless favorite or a brand new recipe, scrumptious treats add to the festivity (and flavor) of the season. Two to try: JELL-O[R] & COOL WHIP[R]...

Drinking in the serenity: in the midst of holiday frenzy, take some time for you.(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... It's inevitable during the holidays. The hectic sense of having so much to do, and so little time to do it! Yet you still want to savor the enjoyment of the season. It's at this time that simple pleasures are a must, offering you a much-needed...

A dog in the city: fun days-out and about with Buddy and Biggie.(you & your pet)
December 1, 2003... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Caption: c'mon, boy Above: Whether braving crowded city sidewalks on all fours or riding in a taxi (right), Buddy keeps his cool in Canine Styles' Aquascutum trench coat ($140) and Le Chien's canvas-and-leather...

Real-estate sampler.
December 1, 2003... Here a look at properties for sale around the country. Call the companies for details. Post-and-Beam Ohioan Located just west of Urbana near Saint Paris, this 1868 structure has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, formal living and dining rooms, a family...

Authentic abode: period details return a home to the late 1700s. These products help to get the look.(home almanac)
December 1, 2003... paint Inspired by Old World colors but made using modern technology, latex acrylic paints manufactured and sold by the Sturbridge, Mass., home-decorating shop The Seraph are quick drying and don't have a strong odor. The paints were applied to...

House plans you can buy.(home almanac)
December 1, 2003... TO ORDER PLANS FOR EITHER OF THESE HOUSES, CALL (800) 839-0084 OR SEE THE COUPON ON PAGE 133. YOU CAN ALSO BROWSE MORE THAN 100 ADDITIONAL DESIGNS ON THE HOUSE PLANS FINDER AT COUNTRYLIVING.COM. the vanderburg Dennis Vessels adds...

green ever after: a California Christmas tree farmer cultivates a crop-and the land.(save your countryside)
December 1, 2003... As December approaches, Candace Calsoyas prepares to welcome visitors to La Pajarosa, her organic Christmas tree farm on California's Central Coast. By this time, the tree pruning has been completed and the holiday wreaths have been dressed...

What is it? What is it worth? A professional appraiser identifies and evaluates your possessions.(Letter to the Editor)
December 1, 2003... A friend gave me this unusual object as a gift but I have no idea what it is. It is 13"H, has a punched-tin shade, and CHIEF BARON CIGAR 5> is stamped on its shade and base. I am curious to know its original use and would appreciate any...

Country Calendar December: our monthly listing of antiques shows, crafts fairs, and festive events.(Calendar)
December 1, 2003... If you would like to see your antiques show, fair, or other country festivity in our free listing, please send us a note at least four months before the event is to be held. Send information to Country Living Magazine, Country Calendar, P.O....

Holiday glitter: dazzling collections and baubles aplenty transform an Oregon house at Christmas time.
December 1, 2003... Since Christmas falls between two family birthdays, Diane Speakman and her husband, Jay, prefer to keep things simple at home. Holiday decorations are laid out with little planning but plenty of style. Diane's penchant for all things pale or...

Crafted by hand: with handmade reproduction furniture and painstaking research, a 17th-century home is returned to its glory days.
December 1, 2003... When Alexandra Pifer and her husband, Michael, first toured their future home in northeastern Connecticut, her excitement was plain to see. I don't have much of a poker face," she confesses. The bones of the 1675 structure were...

In bloom: flowers in pretty-as-you-please pinks pair with icy hues for a fresh holiday palette.
December 1, 2003... glorious Trimming a Christmas tree in fresh amaryllis blooms began as a logistical challenge for contributing editor and horticulturist Kevin Reiner. "I was planning a party at home and wanted to do something memorable," he says. "I knew...

Gold standard: dazzling yet refined, festive yet classic, gold adds elegance to the holiday home.
December 1, 2003... Opposite page: Delight guests by laying a holiday table brought to life by the magic of gold. The neutral backdrop provided by Gustavian-style chairs upholstered in burlap, a linen tablecloth topped by a wool runner, and wool and cashmere...

A sweet time: delight your loved ones with an offering of holiday cookies--as easy to make as they are delicious, you'll find them ideal as party fare, gifts, and simple desserts.(country cooking)
December 1, 2003... It isn't the holidays without cookies! Let our crisp meringues, rich chocolate drops, or tiny jam thumbprints put on a dazzling show as both festive ornaments and delightful treats at holiday gatherings. As their baking aromas fill the air and...

Holiday survival 101: simple lessons to ease the holiday frenzy.(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... The crackle of roaring fires, the smell of roasting chestnuts and a certain nip in the air are all signs that the holidays are fast approaching. Yet every year, the holiday season seems catch us by surprise. Before you know it, the big day...

Why wait to decorate?(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... We offer 25%-85% off most retail store prices on all 1st quality, name brand Blinds & Wallpaper. Call 800.748.7944 or visit us online at www.decoratetoday.com for FREE Blinds, Wall paper & Area Rug catalogs. We carry all the top brands...

Crown point cabinetry.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... recognized for their fine quality period-style cabinetry, is located in Claremont, New Hampshire. Bold direct to consumers, Crown Point's cabinetry is handcrafted in the tradition of fine furniture.www.crown-point.com

Colonial braided rugs.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... This traditional wool cloth braided rug is both durable and affordable. Rich color and sturdy construction insure it will be a favorite for years to come. Yankee Pride offers many other flat braided rugs. Custom colors & sizes too! Also wool...

Soapstone wood and gas stoves.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Enjoy natural radiant heat from America's most beautiful wood and gas stoves. Whole house heating power; beautiful fire; no power required. Fine furniture design. Cast iron frame with beautiful soapstone walls. Free catalog and video. Call...

Custom table pads.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Guard your table and save with custom made table pads direct from America's oldest and largest manufacturer. Call: 800-328-7237 or visit us at: www.sentrytablepad.com SENTRY TABLE PAD COMPANY.

Bennington potters.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Handmade Vermont pottery: new shapes and colors. Beautiful bowls, mugs, bakeware, dinnerware and more. All oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. Unusual NE food gift sets. benningtonpotters.com 1-800-205-8033

Fran's wicker & rattan furniture.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Order with confidence from America's oldest and largest wicker & rattan importer. Highest quality, lower prices, and prompt delivery. For a FREE 72-page catalog, call 800.531.1511 and ask for Dept. CL03 or visit us at: www.franswicker.com

Spiral stair kits.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Since 1931, The Iron Shop[R] has enjoyed a reputation for quality and value in spiral stairs. As the leading manufacturer of spiral stair kits, The iron Shop[R]offers its customers the very best in selection, quality and prices. Spirals are...

The Silver Queen Inc.(country store)(Advertisement)
December 1, 2003... Sterling silver flatware for sale at affordable prices. Over 6000 patterns carried of active and discontinued sterling, both pre-owned and brand new pieces. China, crystal and fine silver gifts also available. Online national bridal registry...

Simple country pleasures.(photo caption)
December 1, 2003... AT CHRISTMAS PLAY AND MAKE GOOD CHEER, FOR CHRISTMAS COMES BUT ONCE A YEAR. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Caption: AT CHRISTMAS PLAY AND MAKE GOOD CHEER, FOR CHRISTMAS COMES BUT ONCE A YEAR.