Country Living articles from January 2005

Country Living archives from January 2005

January.(editor's journal)
January 1, 2005... I'm always trying to keep my home organized. I don't have much free time, so I usually try to steal five minutes here and there to keep some manageable order. I go through the mail with my morning coffee, fluff a pillow or put away a stray toy...

Pumpkin carving party.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... I am writing to express my thanks and excitement for your October issue featuring the annual pumpkin party (page 83). I love autumn. It is by far the most special time of year for me. Having lived a few years in Vermont, I was able to...

Cheers!(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... My husband and I own a vineyard in California, where we produce our own wine. I was pleased to see wine serving suggestions included with the recipes in "Cook * Book: Sunday Dinner" (October 2004). Country Living is one of my favorite magazines...

Memories and mushrooms.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... The November issue of Country Living really hit home for me. Faith Andrews Bedford's "Kids in the Country" story about the children's holiday table brought back memories, as I come from a large family, too. We still have about 32 people for...

Quilted inspiration.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... In August 2001, my husband had an accident at work that left him in a coma. After spending time in the hospital, he is now in a nursing home about 20 minutes from our home. I spend about eight hours a day with him and to pass the time I have...

Get well soon, June.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... I received a copy of your November 2004 issue, along with fresh flowers, from my son and family while recuperating from surgery. At first, I was very hesitant to look at the Thanksgiving ideas, as I wondered and worried about my recovery. Thank...

Simple pleasures.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2005... I have been a subscriber to Country Living for years and one of my favorite pages is "Simple Country Pleasures," the last beautiful photo page of each issue. I anticipate this artfully done page as one looks forward to a dessert after a totally...

Drop a line.(out & about)
January 1, 2005... For diehard anglers, anytime is a good time to fish--even the middle of winter. Ice fishermen routinely brave single-digit temperatures on northern lakes and rivers for the chance to catch jumbo trout, perch, and walleye. Interested? Tag along...

Pin it on.(buzz)
January 1, 2005... The proceeds from Aid to Artisans' pretty wool posies benefit the talented craftswomen in Macedonia who crochet them. Available in nine bright colors, the flower pins cost $16 each (includes s & h). To place an order, call (860) 947-3441, ext....

Turn on your radio.(buzz)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... This winter, sit back and tune in to some of the eclectic--and entertaining--radio programs being aired on America's AM and FM stations. For a dose of bluegrass and Americana, check out WOODSONGS OLD-TIME RADIO HOUR, hosted by singer Michael...

Inn of the month.(buzz)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... Ring in the new year with a weekend getaway to Philadelphia. To be within walking distance of the city's museums, historic sites, and shops, reserve a room at the inviting Rittenhouse Square Bed & Breakfast. The renovated 1900 carriage house...

All in the family: sisters Keiran Cohen and Kate Shaw turned a passion for rustic furniture into a successful family business.(shoptalk)
January 1, 2005... While searching for a space to house her burgeoning California-based jewelry-design business, Kieran Cohen came across an old general store in Oakland with high ceilings, generous proportions, and creaky, time-worn wood floors. Recognizing the...

Comforts of home: brighten and warm every room in your home these winter months with calming shades of brown.(country classics)
January 1, 2005... put up your feet Pearson's popular leather chair ($2,620) has a matching ottoman ($995). Pearsoncompany.com (store locator). [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] cast a light Illuminate a room with Jamie Young Company's chocolate patina...

Beacon blankets: for collectors in search of warm friends, these vibrant, long-wearing covers are a dream come true.(antiques)
January 1, 2005... what exactly is a beacon blanket? Based in New Bedford, Mass., and, later, in Swannanoa, N.C., the Beacon Company sold so many blankets (21 million a year in the late 1930s) that "Beacon" became a generic for cotton camp blanket--though...

Papier-mache sewing boxes: professional appraiser Helaine Fendelman identifies and evaluates your collectibles and antiques.(what is it? what is it worth?)
January 1, 2005... valued at: $2,500 During the 19th century, mastering the art of needlework and embroidery was an important part of a young woman's education. Specialized containers for sewing tools were common household items. Sewing boxes such as this...

The Art of Organization: take inventory, prune ruthlessly, then reorganize with clever storage ideas that please the eye--and the budget!(idea notebook)(housekeeping)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... get started Let's face it: If we had $1 for every New Year's resolution to "Get organized!" we'd be rich. But this year, our suggestion is to start small, do it in steps, and give yourself stylish incentives that help rein in clutter with...

Clutter control: put captivating containers--from stationery boxes to handbags to tin cans--to work as distinctive, well-priced organizers.(idea notebook)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... storage that's as attractive as these boxes, baskets, and totes shouldn't be hidden away. Look for the stylish stowaway potential in everything--even your pocketbook. Instead of tucking away handbags such as the straw bags (above left and far...

Six simple hat tricks; These boxes lend themselves to a multitude of uses: think of stowing correspondence, sewing notions, accessories, more.(market report)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... Classic blue-and-white-striped cardboard hatbox with a convenient twill-tape pull is bargain-priced. Ikea; $3.99. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Stack this nest of hatboxes beneath a desk. Polka-dot boxes from Resource International; $44 for...

Four easy pieces: just a few key elements can keep a busy hallway or entry better organized. Let accessories set the style--rustic or romantic.(quick change)(Brief Article)(Cover Story)
January 1, 2005... start with a bench It provides both a focal point and a place to slip on boots: individual cubbies offer family members a catchall for scarves and gloves. A boot tray collects shoes along with drips and mud; a rug softens the surface...

A place for everything: try these simple solutions for common organizing dilemmas--from takeout menus to holiday ornaments to moveable files.(solutions)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... a clear view If takeout menus or recipe clippings threaten to take over a drawer, try this simple stylists' solution: a spiral binder filled with clear plastic sheet protectors. Tuck a menu or recipe inside each page for easy viewing. This...

Lighting your dining room: get the best mix of fixtures, bulbs, and accessories for a beautifully illuminated gathering space.(home almanac)
January 1, 2005... What wattage? For the most pleasing atmosphere and overall effect, try a fixture with many sources of lower-wattage bulbs--an eight-arm chandelier with 40-watt bulbs, for instance. And always install a dimmer switch. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]...

Jump-start your new year: try a new workout.(exercise)(Advertisement)
January 1, 2005... Sometimes the biggest hurdle to exercising is staying motivated. If you've been doing the same workout for a while, chances are you may be getting bored. Consider signing up for something you've always wanted to try, like indoor rock climbing...

Cabin fever: here, a look at properties for sale around the country. Please call the companies listed for additional details.(log homes)
January 1, 2005... Four historic Civil War--era chestnut, oak, and pine log homes have been reconstructed into one 2,800-sq.-ft. West Virginia structure. This beautifully detailed 4-bedroom, 2 1/2-bath home with its recently remodeled French country kitchen...

Blooming in the New Year: although the holidays are over, it's possible to keep their spirit--and colors--alive by preserving seasonal gift plants. Follow these simple instructions to keep your plants growing well into the new year.(holiday plants)
January 1, 2005... poinsettias have red, white, pink, or variegated bracts surrounding tiny flowers, and remain attractive for many weeks. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] LIGHT Keep in a bright, sunny window, away from the glass. WATER Avoid overwatering....

Design your own logo: create a logo for yourself or your business in little time with easy-to-collect resources.(personal logos)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... Feel free to experiment with materials as you create your one-of-a-kind logo. Mix a variety of typefaces and images for a truly personal design. Keep your palette simple: one to three colors at the most to maintain a cohesive final effect. ...

January: our monthly listing of antiques shows, crafts fairs, and festive events.(country calendar)(Calendar)
January 1, 2005... 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, 224 W....

Lying down with dogs: at bedtime, few rituals are as comforting as tucking oneself in with a gently snoring dog or purring cat.(sleeping together)
January 1, 2005... Bed warmers A dog's or cat's normal body temperature ranges between 100[degrees] and 102[degrees]F, so sharing the bed with animals is thermally efficient. And for kids afraid of the dark, a pet is a dependable security blanket--infinitely more...

Beauty from bulbs.(country store)
January 1, 2005... Bring the beauty of bulbs to your family's garden from John Scheepers' collection of over 750 Dutch flower bulbs. For a free, 80-page color catalog, call (860) 567-0838 or visit www.johnscheepers.com. Code: TR70. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Venta--airwasher.(country store)
January 1, 2005... Dry air is difficult to clean. Humidification plus purification is much more effective. No need for filterpads. Extremely simple and hygienic. Visit www.Venta-Airwasher.com or call for the revolutionary 2 in 1 humidifier/purifier at...

Spiral stair kits.(country store)
January 1, 2005... 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...

Claudio Rayes.(country store)
January 1, 2005... 14 designer beds you will love and why. Request the free catalog of the Claudio Rayes bed collection and learn why interior designers love and recommend it. Helpful to make a choice. Visit: www.claudiorayes.com [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Colonial braided rugs.(country store)
January 1, 2005... This traditional 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 handhooked...

Kitchen Garden Seeds.(country store)
January 1, 2005... John Scheepers Kitchen Garden Seeds has a distinctive, gourmet line of vegetable, herb and flower seeds and a free, 44-page catalog full of tantalizing recipes and horticultural tips. (860) 567-6086 www.kitchengardenseeds.com Ad code: KG73. ...

Old world charmer.(time and again)
January 1, 2005... An artful collaboration between designer and homeowner ensures that a c. 1912 Montreal home is updated for casual 21st-century living--kids, dogs, and all--and survives with its stately European elegance intact. When it was built, the house was...

In love with linen.
January 1, 2005... From tea towels to trousseaux, linen enjoys a heritage at once humble and grand. Today it takes its place nearly everywhere in the home--for upholstery and bedding as well as clothing. Let the versatility and quiet elegance of linen inspire a...

This other Eden: effulgent blossoms and barn-sale furnishings create a personal sanctuary where winter is banished.(conservatories)
January 1, 2005... EVER SINCE SHE STARTED GROWING ORCHIDS on a Manhattan windowsill years ago, Lisa Ishimuro has nurtured a vision, "partly culled from old books I collect about European conservatories." Since Country Living last visited her c. 1800 farmhouse in...

A finder's keepers.
January 1, 2005... artistic training--I don't have any," admits Elizabeth Stetson. "But I do think I have a flair for making something out of nothing," says this former owner of an antiques shop. "And I'm not afraid to experiment." Elizabeth first fell into the...

Enchanted cottage: a romantic 19th-century guest house, imbued with European styling, takes visitors back to another era.(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... A simple, serene environment--that's all I wanted," explains Millena Coffey of the c. 1900 guest house she and her husband, Tim, decorated with comfortable 18th- and 19th-century antiques. The cottage nestles in a wooded spot just down the path...

All together now.(kitchen design)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... When the busy pace of work and school slows down, the Koeblers like to stay home and cook. A respectful renovation gave them a kitchen that is at once up-to-date and true to the classic character of their house. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] ...

From the pantry: you can cut your cooking time and still create memorable meals with a little help from a few premade ingredients.(cook book)
January 1, 2005... MARINARA SAUCE becomes smoky ketchup with the help of pantry staples such as premixed chili seasoning and canned chipotle peppers. It tops this piquant Turkey Chili Burger--made with more marinara and seasoning. A touch of cream cheese enriches...

Pantry pointers: to extend shelf life to its full potential, make sure your pantry is dark, cool, and dry, with a constant temperature at or below 70[degrees]F. While most packaged items are stamped with a "use-by" date, how long should you keep them?(the pantry)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2005... CANNED FRUIT will last for up to one year sealed, but must be refrigerated and eaten within a week after opening CHOCOLATE keeps for 18 months sealed or one year opened and in an airtight container CURDS AND JAMS stick around for one...

Country news: your guide to exciting special events, promotions. The latest products and online offerings.
January 1, 2005... The Comfort Zone is home to Country News, Country Link, Travel Link and the Comfort Connection Reader Panel, and features exciting events, promotions, sweepstakes, links and more. Click on these links for special offers: COUNTRY NEWS ...

Off-the-shelf inspirations.(the pantry)(prepared foods)
January 1, 2005... On the days when you can't make it to the grocery store, a well-stocked pantry is invaluable. Here, our editors' picks will help you expand your kitchen repertoire as well as your daily menu. With the addition of a few more ingredients, these...

Breathe easy this winter: when the big chill sets in, don't let sneezes and sniffles foil your fun.(special advertising section)(Advertisement)
January 1, 2005... Achoo! Itchy eyes. Aches and pains. How do you know if you're in the midst of the Cold War, or if you're battling allergies? Though the symptoms of these two conditions can be very similar, their roots and methods of treating them are quite...

A new year, a new you: with a good game plan in place, your resolutions can become a reality.(special advertising section)(Advertisement)
January 1, 2005... New Year's is traditionally a time for renewal and the annual resolution ritual. But according to one survey, only 30 percent of resolution-makers will stay on course past January. Here are some specific suggestions to help you stick with your...

Colds, the flu, and you: we've got the lowdown on these bugs--and how to keep them at bay.(special advertising section)(Advertisement)
January 1, 2005... One thing you won't want to share with your family and friends this holiday season is a cold or the flu. We spoke with leading infectious disease expert Dr. Winkler G. Weinberg, author of No Germs Allowed! How to Avoid Infectious Diseases at...

House plans you can buy: to order plans for either of these houses, call (800) 839-0084 or see the coupon on page 123. You can also browse more than 100 additional houseplans on the House Plans Finder at countryliving.com.(homes to build)
January 1, 2005... THE CAPE FERRELO James Maxwell's octagonal house with a lighthouse cupola has a maritime feel. A circular stairway dominates the entry. The kitchen, with ample counters and breakfast nook, adjoins the dining room. The large living room has...

Country living directory.(reader's resource)(Directory)(Advertisement)
January 1, 2005... Use these convenient toll-free numbers to obtain information about quality products and services listed below. decorating and remodeling American Blind & Wallpaper 1-800-454-0248 Andersen[R] Windows & Doors ...

Shopping guide.(reader's resource)(Buyers Guide)
January 1, 2005... Use this handy reference for all of your buying needs. This Shopping Guide provides our readers with further details and an index of manufacturers, antiques dealers, and stores where merchandise featured in Country Living can be obtained. ...

Simple country pleasures.
January 1, 2005... 'Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam, Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home. --JOHN HOWARD PAYNE