Pink Friday, 2/13/09 - Shades of Rose

Shades of Rose - Why does this title keep a song from the Little Rascals going through my head? Remember Alfalfa singing to Darla, "The object of my affections, turns my complexion from pink to rosy red.......". Such silliness pops into my thoughts some times. At any rate, the Shades of Rose is the theme for this weeks Pink Friday. Pink, roses - how gorgeous will the boutiques be this week? There are sure some wonderful themes this year, you're not going to want to miss these. Patricia Rose will be rolling out some new items for this weeks theme, how could I not? So that's the business news for the moment. Of, course, I have something tucked up my sleeve that will be coming along in a short time that I am super excited about, you're going to have to stay tuned.

Here it is, February, and I don't believe I have told you what the Herb of the Year is. Drum roll, please------Bay Laurel. Now here's an herb that not every one is familiar with or uses regularly. A bay leaf thrown into your pot roast, stew, or soup gives a really yummy flavor. Give it a try, you may find something new here that helps us all cut down on that demon, salt. Using herbs is a great way to add loads of flavor, some extra vitamins and reduce the need for salt to enhance flavor. Bay leaf is also a great crafting item, the beautiful leaves make terrific wreathes - I keep one in the kitchen. It looks pretty bedraggled after a while because I keep stealing the leaves for cooking, but easily replaced. Just take a wreath form and take these gorgeous leaves all going in one direction and either wire them on, if it's strictly ornamental, break out the glue gun. I keep mine on the tiny side and use a styrofoam plate. Cut a hole in the middle, cut the outside edge down to the size you want and the end of the leave just pokes into the styrofoam. Goes with any decor depending on what you tie on it. Raffia is very country, lace for the romantic home, ribbon for the cottage look. Make it your own, let your imagination go. I will have to make a new one to show you a picture. As I said, mine look a little moth eaten after a month or so - I use it a lot. I'll post some more about bay in the days to come.

PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU HAVE COME FOR THE ONE WORLD ONE HEART GIVEAWAY, PLEASE LEAVE YOUR COMMENT ON THE PREVIOUS POST TO BE INCLUDED IN TONIGHT'S DRAWING. WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED FRIDAY MORNING.