Book Reviews: Madhouse Cookbook and No-Bake Baking

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have two must-have recipe book reviews to tempt you with today! I find that having a big family + loving to have friends round = some slightly fraught moments!! In the run up to Christmas, there are lots of occasions when run to a few trusted recipe books. Today, I wanted to share two of those with you...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ivEtLUtAeSnrR1vK4u0NWHLSlEcdNLF2MdJCd_d1ERGC_X7xDiSM8493rDRfPl5MJgmmx24uitTLBvsLnCXIe7bi3_cFI45l1oUIV8ErBB0ucCxp8MHL7JNlAnP4pN2vAeAO1M6P1qM/s1600/Madhouse+Cookbook.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The first is the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1848990634/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1848990634&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=WNGBEJ5SRTURMJ63">Madhouse Cookbook: Delicious Recipes for the Busy Family Kitchen</a>, which fits in to where author Jo Pratt is in her life from day to day...and it shows. That's not to say that she really does live in a madhouse, but rather that she obviously understands what it means to have to produce a varied, healthy, realistically-priced meal each and every day for a family. However, very importantly, the recipes are delicious, and the quality of the ingredients is in no way compromised.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">There have been other recipe books that promise to do the same but, in my opinion, I've found that none of them are as good as The Madhouse Cookbook.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="452" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91-xb6cnkdL.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The book is divided into three sections: Monday To Friday Survival, The Busy Weekend, and Cling Onto Your Social Life. Each of these is then split into sub-categories so you know exactly where to turn when the pressure is on: for example, 'Quick Prep - Leave To Cook' and 'The Need For Speed'.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="452" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71386o2vd8L.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The book has <i>lots </i>of really good, and original ideas of how to stretch the recipes further, as well as thoughts on how to use leftovers, which I LOVE!! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="452" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71EmcCg-3AL.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another great thing is the index, which allows you to look up recipes by their key ingredient. Perfect for those evenings when you're struggling to use up items in the fridge.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="452" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71NEGWkop7L.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jo Pratt has clearly been there, done that with a busy household...Madhouse Cookbook is one of best survival guides out there!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The second book I'm reviewing today is a must-have in the sometimes hectic run up to Christmas. I absolutely adore this time of year...but there can be slightly fraught moments when I realise I've got extra guests for tea and need to rustle up something fast.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">That's where <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1848666225/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1848666225&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=N2FDTWXE4NIDPHZC">No-Bake Baking: Easy, Oven-Free Cakes and Treats</a> comes in! Now, I have to say up-front, that this is not a book to get if you're on <i>any </i>kind of diet because it's literally jam-packed full of VERY sweet treats! BUT it's just genius at helping to whizz up a great-looking desserts when you're flagging a little at the end of a long day, and realise that you've still not made pudding for tonight's guests (been there?!).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="cookbook" src="http://www.shemazing.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/cookbook.png" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The recipes themselves vary from the extremely easy (basically an assemblage of elements!) to the slightly tricky. Chapters are separated into: Biscuits, Cakes, Slices and bars, Cheesecakes, Pies and tarts, Sweet treats, Iced Dreams and Desserts.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="http://www.shemazing.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/desserts.png" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">As I said, probably not the best thing for your teeth but a life-saver at this busy time of year.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">{You can buy <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1848666225/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1848666225&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=N2FDTWXE4NIDPHZC">No-Bake Baking</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1848990634/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1848990634&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=WNGBEJ5SRTURMJ63">Madhouse Cookbook: Delicious Recipes for the Busy Family Kitchen here</a>!}<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=modecounstyl-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1848990634" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Book Reviews: Madhouse Cookbook and No-Bake Baking

I have two must-have recipe book reviews to tempt you with today! I find that having a big family + loving to have friends round = some slig...

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Book Review: Giftwrapped by Jane Means

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm a late developer when it comes to the art of gift-wrapping. Yes, I was always wowed if I received presents that were exquisitely presented but it's only in the passed few years that I've realised how achievable it is, with a little thought and a well-stocked craft cupboard, to add significant zhush to your bestowing. And that's why, just in time for that Christmas wrapping bonanza, today's post is a book review of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1909342564/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1909342564&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=TRXUHAT2A75CHM62">Giftwrapped: Practical and Inventive Ideas for All Occasions and Celebrations</a> by Jane Means.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="http://janemeansblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Jane-Means-book-Giftwrapped-cover.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="539" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jane Means is a wrapping guru extraordinaire. She raises the presentation bar by a few hundred feet but somehow manages to convey her obvious talent in a way that is both inspiring and encouraging.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYjL3vpojaOj5U45bWfF9LP8DFE-t-ZGZx2uat78VexHBFhZu1o7ZaMEjABKORwok3L5r-vrJiZwpUm7oDf7yrwxGGeq3UkQd1L0DbYZFT0Q5GKZA3Z0-rwQguqK-Iaf0jm8otgzx0go/s640/image-1.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="637" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Published by Jacqui Small, Giftwrapped takes you through the whole range of packaging problems (bottles, clothes, circular tins)...with fantastic and gorgeous solutions.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://d2dwdsyg32uj5v.cloudfront.net/system/product_images/images/001/851/401/original_giftwrapped-hardback-book-by-jane-means.jpg?1412446334" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jane means teaches gift-wrapping (as well as selling an enormous range of want-it-now ribbons and papers) for a living, and her skill at demonstrating a variety of techniques (bow-tying, pleating, bouquet-encasing) shines throughout the book.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHoaI2kmae9AX8Q57O5Fob0RWSz6Ox8qnvfzuQmGmh_BDl72qX19KF7Elsx_v0Gk0gA2E2imjeGxjwZYtR2TFYE8LFkdONm1oi2ZeTKMdOSb-YySRgyo7qyQw6U-S6FQXy5mnQ_IDXqo/s1600/gift-wrapping-expert.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll be relieved to know that Giftwrapped is not a plea to spend hundreds of pounds on fancy extras...plenty of the ideas here are free...for example, adding little sprigs of rosemary to your ribbons. These little touches, alongside your new-found wrapping prowess will make you feel like Modern Country crafting royalty!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijuKq8ZLsp8GFRVzhO-IX9RxtBZXV0IYkQanelrLL-Rjzu4hNqp2Eg5xGFieE3qgY-eFTNP8nGpNHi7763t90JFXYqPMWRYgtbvtE_GROg0_AlzwdhL3dy0S6XB1IH1KI-MKsSNxbG4gM/s1600/Rossi-giftwrapping-by-Jane-Means.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Covering everything from baby shower presents to making the perfect labels, Giftwrapped has the power (with a little help from you!) to transform so-so offerings to breathtaking beauties.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqut_jYUOt0CQ75V28c2v2WYdH-M0BJyYzYSX65tJyvp-Q2pweSbt0LwrRT4_y_jHfnBvoy5fPcDBfG17fLjGtSPpzHAZ4LFj6RSz9NbSRMCeKEgEkrbrKHUDHZgYqKZHUC6ixY58HYyQ/s1600/image-4.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">{Get your copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1909342564/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1909342564&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=TRXUHAT2A75CHM62">Giftwrapped by Jane Means here</a>.}</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://d2dwdsyg32uj5v.cloudfront.net/system/product_images/images/001/851/393/original_giftwrapped-hardback-book-by-jane-means.jpg?1412445808" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Book Review: Giftwrapped by Jane Means

I'm a late developer when it comes to the art of gift-wrapping. Yes, I was always wowed if I received presents that were exquisitely pre...

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Remodelista by Julie Carlson Book Review

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you been warmly engulfed by the design vortex that is the Remodelista blog? If that's a yes then it'll come as no surprise that the book <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/157965536X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=157965536X&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=5YUHVTT4NKQZZGSM">Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home</a> by Julie Carlson is an absolute home bible for the renovators among you. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91bTAKEh-uL.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="478" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here's the blurb:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22.3999996185303px; text-align: start;">Remodelista.com is the go-to, undisputed authority for home design enthusiasts, remodellers, architects, and designers. Unlike sites that cater to all tastes, Remodelista has a singular and clearly defined aesthetic: classic pieces trump designs that are trendy and transient, and well-edited spaces take precedence over cluttered environments. High and low mix seamlessly here, and getting the look need not be expensive. Remodelista decodes the secrets to achieving this aesthetic, with in-depth tours and lessons from 12 enviable homes; a recipe-like breakdown of the hardest-working kitchens and bathrooms; dozens of do-it-yourself projects; The Remodelista 100, a guide to the best everyday household objects; and an in-depth look at the ins and outs of the remodelling process. In a world of design confusion, Remodelista takes the guesswork out of the process.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 22.3999996185303px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="425" src="http://thingselemental.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/80-81_The-First-Floor-Unveiled.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Remodelista is beautifully packaged. With great quality pages and a weighty cover, this is a book to display with pride!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="437" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91MvU3QN5rL.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The whole ethos of Remodelista is that the author's want to pass on their wisdom and experience gained through many years of renovating their own properties, helping their readers save time and money and valuable energy. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Why waste hours mindlessly trawling the Internet when others have put in the legwork for you? For exaple, there's a fantastic explanation of what to buy and what to avoid at Ikea.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="437" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91g7kHS61bL.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">My favourite quote is this:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Classic and livable trumps trendy and transient.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Remoelista consistantly combines a contemporary edge with a timeless warmth. It's a gorgeous aesthetic....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="425" src="http://thingselemental.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/180-181_The-Plan-1024x681.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The homes they share are very much of one look. And, it should be said that there is a very strong American-bias....but that's no bad thing! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="437" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/915KttHW7bL.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you adore the images I've shared here then you will be in design heaven! Lots of white walls, pared-back spaces....but in no way lacking in homely cosiness. It's a look they have absolutely mastered...and are will to share every iota of information with us.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="http://thingselemental.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/104_Peak-Sleeping-Conditions-796x1024.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="497" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yippee!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>{If you'd like to buy a copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/157965536X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=157965536X&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=5YUHVTT4NKQZZGSM">the Remodelista book, click here</a>!}</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Remodelista by Julie Carlson Book Review

Have you been warmly engulfed by the design vortex that is the Remodelista blog? If that's a yes then it'll come as no surprise that...

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New Vintage: The Homemade Home by Tahn Scoon: Book Review

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This book is an absolute Modern Country Interiors gem! I'm so thrilled to be able to review it on here!! <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1742571301/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1742571301&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=322ZFGTTNPE3DAGW">New Vintage: The Homemade Home</a> by Tahn Scoon has the subtitle: Beautiful Interiors and How-To Projects. The title, although an entirely acurate description, doesn't quite do justice to the wonder of this book.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="640" src="http://recycledinteriors.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/New-Vintage-Cover_1j.jpeg" width="533" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You see, New Vintage takes you into another world; a world full of beauty and creativity, where you really do start to believe that it might just be possible to make sure that everything in your home is both useful <i>and </i>beautiful.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="http://theinteriorsaddict.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_4729a_1.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The reference to Vintage in the title should not be misunderstood as referring to Granny Chic, or anything of the sort. Oh no, no, <i>no</i>! New Vintage is all about understated restraint. A very cool mix of Old and New. Modern Country Interiors abound.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="375" src="http://static.booktopia.com.au/internals/9781742571300-4.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The How-To projects are both extraordinarily doable and extremely desirable: a little simple reupholstery here, a little burnishing of wood there...add a crystal knob or two, and you're away!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="375" src="http://static.booktopia.com.au/internals/9781742571300-2.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">But if there had to be just one thing that I had to pick out of New Vintage as it's unique selling point, it's just that! It's unique! I've not seen anything quite like it. Lots of warm wood, a slight Scandinavian slant, a touch of French elegance and a lot of Tahn Scoon's incredible take on Modern Country Style.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="186Q6021a" height="640" src="http://recycledinteriors.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/186Q6021a.jpg" width="539" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tahn Scoon says, "The book focuses on how to decorate yourself with inspirational interiors and hip how-to projects, such as how to make an upholstered bedhead and re-vamp vintage furniture. A home filled with beautifully crafted hand and homemade pieces is a home filled with warmth and soul. Be daring enough to fill your home with the things you love, the home-made, the handmade, the well-worn and the well-loved - and boldly combine them with the clean sensibilities of the new - and you'll have a home that is truly beautiful and absolutely you."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="IMG_6122aa" height="640" src="http://recycledinteriors.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/IMG_6122aa.jpg" width="538" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">See what I mean?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tahn Scoon's book <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1742571301/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1742571301&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=322ZFGTTNPE3DAGW">New Vintage</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=modecounstyl-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1742571301" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> offers Modern Country Interiors at their best!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>{Click on the link to buy!}</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

New Vintage: The Homemade Home by Tahn Scoon: Book Review

This book is an absolute Modern Country Interiors gem! I'm so thrilled to be able to review it on here!! New Vintage: The Homemade Home ...

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The RHS Companion Guide To Scented Plants By Stephen Lacey: Book Review

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">After <a href="http://moderncountrystyle.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/how-to-turn-any-bunch-of-flowers-into.html" target="_blank">this post</a> on how adding home-grown eucalyptus is a cheap and effective way to give pizazz to any bunch of flowers, it got me thinking once again about scented plants in the garden. I am absolutely crazy about scented flowers. If you are too then <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0711235740/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0711235740&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=2JX7VP2JZR6KQCTI">The RHS Companion to Scented Plants</a>,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">the only major reference work on scent and scented flowers that is endorsed by the RHS,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> authored by Stephen Lacey is one book you won't want to miss.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="RHS Companion to Scented Plants lr" height="640" src="https://hurtlingtowards60.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/rhs-companion-to-scented-plants-lr.jpg?w=640&h=846" width="483" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Companion To Scented Plants (published by Frances Lincoln), not only contains an extensive list of plants (more on that below), but also gives over the first three chapters (Scent And The Gardener, The Nature Of Scent, and Planning Your Garden) to fantastic ideas about garden designs that are beautiful AND highly scented....a Modern Country Garden paradise!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The rest of the book acts as a catalogue of scented plants and flowers. However, and let me very clear, this is <i>not </i>a dry, dull reference book. Instead, Stephen Lacey's text will have the olfactory  equivalent to making your mouth water (making your nose run??!!)...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="RHS-Scented-Plants-sample-2" height="391" src="http://reckless-gardener.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/RHS-Scented-Plants-sample-2.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This book reveals aroma as the intensely personal but often-missing ingredient of beautiful gardens. If you spent the long summer evenings in your garden enjoying al fresco suppers.....but <i>didn't </i>spend time with your head buried in deliciously fragrant flowers then, <i>please</i>, buy <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0711235740/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0711235740&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=2JX7VP2JZR6KQCTI">The RHS Companion to Scented Plants</a> and set yourself that delightfully achievable and utterly pleasurable goal for next year!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

The RHS Companion Guide To Scented Plants By Stephen Lacey: Book Review

After this post  on how adding home-grown eucalyptus is a cheap and effective way to give pizazz to any bunch of flowers, it got me thinking...

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Making A House Your Home by Clare Nolan: Book Review

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0857830627/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0857830627&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=2LEBTPZMCSKDOTNV" style="font-size: x-large;">Making a House Your Home: The Essential Guide To Modern Day Homemaking</a> <span style="font-size: large;">by Clare Nolan was published way back in 2011 but, rather out-of-character for me, a voracious devourer of design books, I've only recently discovered it. I absolutely adore it, and thought you would too... Here's a book review just for you...in time for Christmas!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51MAExoNWBL.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Clare Nolan is the Lifestyle Editor for You magazine (which comes with the Mail on Sunday). She clearly has a huge wealth of knowledge and experience at her fingertips and is extremely open in sharing that with us, including a fantastic section on working with what you already have.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="381" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71mWVcZXr9L.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Though it was released back in 2011 by Kyle Books, it hasn't dated in the very least. Rather, three years on, it has fast become one of my go-to books, showing just how timeless Clare's ideas are.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://angelandblume.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/clare-nolan-4.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="536" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here's a list of the contents, which are all very self-explanatory:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="640" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61OJzy2wO8L.jpg" width="481" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0857830627/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0857830627&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=2LEBTPZMCSKDOTNV">Making a House Your Home</a> takes you through every step of how to turn your ideas into a reality...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="381" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91taunJiLVL.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://angelandblume.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/clare-nolan-5.jpg" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This shot, along with many others in the book, is from Clare Nolan's own home. It's a fairly modest house, which I love. </span><span style="font-size: large;">This is not only a book to gaze at longingly; there are <i>so </i>many ideas to put into practise in your own home....such as how to get yourself a pantry on a budget..</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://angelandblume.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/clare-nolan-3.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="443" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You'll be left thoroughly inspired to give your own home a real shake-up....rather than, as with some interiors books, wondering why you can't be a Lady of the Manor.. *<i>stamps foot</i>*!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img height="380" src="https://angelandblume.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/page-73.jpg" style="font-size: x-large;" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Full of gorgeous images, and text so good you'll want to be Clare's best friend by the time you've finished, </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0857830627/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0857830627&linkCode=as2&tag=modecounstyl-21&linkId=2LEBTPZMCSKDOTNV">Making a House Your Home</a> is one of my all-time favourites. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Get it. Click on the link! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Really</i>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">You won't be disappointed.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishdyCk6ObcKba86AmGFXP8ZzlWNLaNUxY1YUf5fZgrAuub43PCTanFzHQIWZaHPxWWEyGo27f0dmV6LlJVoivf2FfJI6bW-2vZuJ37vNTL_rqXDcTQ0gCMjkXzyiu81CunQfWH1y3_ZU/s1600/911BDF1E66C2C8003D62774447FCC1C0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqUyRhCg66gPfNQHh81rGOfvP_VywWXZqmmtMCjkwk_8h3tp2giJzjabWtNCTfsCfeGInxUcrjS5f4hN-9ni-WpudY16p2jrQvLG77TNFiylmGDVHlNlhiZJunob4YyRG5n7m46U703I/s1600/2052BBEDE343AF4A73F6A61C3820B007.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Making A House Your Home by Clare Nolan: Book Review

Making a House Your Home: The Essential Guide To Modern Day Homemaking   by Clare Nolan was published way back in 2011 but, rather out-of-ch...

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