The Flea ::

Transfer ware

Calling Cards, Post Cards

Sheet Music From 1900

Silver

                 This is what I was up to today. Lots of frolicking about in Saugerties, NY. A visit to the 17th annual French Club Flea at Saugerties, High School . Here are some pics. I'll post my loot at a later time..Have a wonderful weekend everyone. Enjoy!

                                                                                                                          Hugs,
                                                                                                                          Liz
                                                                                                                      

                                                                                                                     

Getting Back To Basics::

 I found these  recipes on the web. Interesting how our ancestors before us made everything from scratch. Now, there is a sudden  movement to get back to basics. I think it's a wonderful idea! Not so sure if it's cost effective though. I wish I could give you more feedback on making laundry soap and all purpose cleaner. The recipes are  here if you want to give it a try. I'm sure your home will smell heavenly.


Simple Laundry Powder ::


16 cups baking soda

12 cups borax

8 cups grated castile or glycerin soap flakes*

3 tablespoons lavender, lemon or grapefruit essential oil



Combine baking soda, borax and soap flakes. Add essential oil and mix with a wire whisk. Use 1⁄8 cup per load.
* Soap flakes eg.( Dr. Bronner's) Grate with a kitchen grater.

Yield: This recipe makes enough powder to last a family of four one year.
Resource: http:// www.motherearthnews.com/


All Purpose Cleaner::

Equal parts of lemon juice and distilled white vinegar.
Add a few drops of Lavender essential oil.
Combine into a spray bottle.
* You can use store bought lemon juice.

 Resource: Lilies and Dandelions Blog

                                                                                                  Good Luck!
                                                                                                   Liz

It's That Time Of Year::

             Yes, Folks I'll be hitting the Flea this weekend. I'm doing the happy dance! For those who unlike me, who have  never been. I composed these 10 Things You Need To Know, When Hitting the Flea.

1. Have a list handy. Including measurements of furniture items and wish list.

2  Pack a  Flea market Survival Kit. Include:  a snack, tape measure, tissues, bags, toiletries, map if needed , sunscreen for the warm weather, sun glasses, bottled water, first aide kit, hand sanitizer.

3. Bring small dollar bills $$$. Sorry, they usually don't take credit cards.

4. Don't carry a handbag! I wear a small shoulder- sling. Easy to grab and lightweight.

5. Wear comfy shoes. Oh my, I once saw a woman walking through fields in stilettos, ouch!!

6. Bring a shopping cart. It makes life so much easier. Unless you want to make countless trips to the car. Not me!

7.If you can, arrive early for the best choices. Some Fleas charge more $ at the gate,when arriving early. It's all up to you! Check out admission rates prior to arrival.

8.Take your time and concentrate. If you really LOVE it, BUY it!!  I have in the past gone back to purchase an item and it was sold. Bye, Bye. Needles to say, trying to remember where that field or booth was located.

9.Early to bed, Early to Rise, Makes a Man / Woman  Healthy, Wealthy and Wise. So True !! You will be walking, walking , walking. Get a good nights rest.

10.Lastly,  have a great time. Take it all in. The people, the weather, the hidden treasures you will find.

        PS. Before I forget!! BE A Haggler. Haggle for the best price. Hey, it's worth a shot. I never pay full price for a item. The vendor can always say, "No".

                                 Hope this helps you on your Flea Market Travels. Have a great week everyone!

                                                                                                                

                                                                                                                 Hugs,
                                                                                                                 Liz  ;)

Cooking School ::

        I love it when I call my Mom on the telephone and she gives me cooking lessons. How to cook, Polenta 101. Laugh! It is always a fun  topic on the phone, "What's for dinner? " I know I can count on her for informative ideas, suggestions and well, I just love her. Since, I'm on a new diet per my Doctor. No wheat, lactose or eggs. I called her as I usually do every week. So down in the dumps. I knew she would pick me up and provide me with valuable info. Her exact words were, " Talk to me." So, polenta came into the conversation. I don't remember her cooking polenta when I was home?  Here's a basic Polenta recipe. I'm omitting butter since, my diet prohibits. A good substitution is olive oil or maybe earth balance for me.

    
     Polenta 101::
  
      List of Ingredients:

6 cups water

2 teaspoons salt

1 3/4 cups yellow cornmeal

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions:

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a heavy large saucepan. Add 2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the mixture thickens and the corn meal is tender, stirring often, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Add the butter, and stir until melted. Pour in a lightly oiled baking dish. Refrigerate over night. Slice and fry in olive oil. Add your favorite sauce. Enjoy!

                                                                                        Happy Cooking,
                                                                                          xxx Liz


PS. Food is comfort. Any wheat free and lactose free tips would be great.
      Thank You!