A Beautiful Ocean Quote

Last year, I had the joy of painting a vibrant seascape for a friend who absolutely adores the ocean. I envisioned this piece not just as a gift, but as a way to capture the essence of the sea's beauty and serenity. The waves, with their rhythmic motions, the sunset sky, and the merging hues of ocean and horizon inspired me profoundly. I believed that this artwork would resonate with anyone who shares a love for the sea, and I was right! It has indeed become a beautiful quote for all those inspired by the ocean, capturing its tranquil yet powerful spirit perfectly!

How To Make A Cucumber Rose Bowl

I'm sure Y'all have seen the videos and tutorials on social media with folks making cucumber roses.

Looks so easy to do.

But I found it wasn't so easy for me!

I'll use the arthritic hands as an excuse, perhaps!

So instead of little cucumber roses, I made a mini Cucumber Rose Bowl.

I used a small dip bowl to hold the cucumber rose.

If you use a bigger bowl, you'll need to calculate for more cucumber slices.

For my bowl, I thinly cut 16 slices of cucumber with a knife.

Then, using a peeler, I sliced 16 more thinner slices.

Next, they were gently patted dry with an absorbent paper towel.

I lined the dip bowl with the thicker slices of cucumber, overlapping, and set it aside.

One thin cucumber slice was put on the top of a board. The other slices overlapped in a horizontal line.

From the bottom, it was rolled up and put in the centre of the bowl lined with the thicker cucumber slices.

Arrange the cucumber petals to your liking.

If you feel it needs a few more, add more slices.

I used my Cucumber Rose Bowl to decorate a small cheese platter for a surprise 'Wine & Cheese Date' with my husband.

He just loved it!

To finish off the platter even more, I added a few brightly coloured garden blooms to the plate.

These flaming orange blooms are from the bulbous plant, Crocosmia Masoniorum.

The Cucumber Rose Bowl would be a fabulous addition to a larger cheese board or cold canape platter.

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Out Of Season DIY Gift Giving

Out Of Season Gift Giving:

Easy DIY Gifts 'Just Because'!

Gift-giving is often reserved for special occasions, birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. However, there’s something truly special about giving a gift "just because." So let's explore the concept of out-of-season gift giving, showcasing the beauty of easy DIY gifts that bring joy without the constraints of a calendar.

Out-of-season gift diving involves gifts that aren't bound to seasonal themes or events. This kind of gifting fosters spontaneity and thoughtfulness, allowing you to give from the heart anytime you want to. The joy of receiving a gift out of the blue can be incredibly uplifting, reminding us that we are cherished without needing a specific reason.

And, a gift handmade by you is much more special.

DIY Gifts to Create Anytime

Creating personalised gifts enhances the sentimental value and can be done with minimal resources.

Here are a few ideas for easy DIY gifts that anyone can make:

· Handmade Greeting Cards: Use cardstock, stickers, dried and pressed flowers and leaves, coloured pens, water colour paints and scrapbook materials to craft your messages.

· Photo Memory Jars: Fill a jar with printed photos and notes that recall shared memories.

· Plant Cuttings in Pots: Pot plant cuttings or cuttings from your garden, presented in unique containers for a living gift.

A simple idea is to use an old can, painted brightly with acrylic paints, with holes punched in the bottom for drainage.

· Homemade Treats: Bake cookies or prepare homemade jams, packaged in charming boxes or jars with a handmade label or tag.

Here is another idea:

'Spicy Powder Rub'

6 tablespoons of cumin powder

2 teaspoons Garam Marsala powder

4 tespoons tumeric powder

1 tsp of ground black pepper

1 tablespoon curry powder

3 teaspoons of cinnamon powder

3 teaspoons smoked paprika powder

A small lidded jar - I used a brown glass one that is about 100ml - enough to hold 1/4 cup of powdered spices.

A hand-designed label was made and Mod Podge glued to the jar, with a thin twine rope bow finish to the gift.

You can print this label for your jar, or create one of your own.

The Art of Giving for No Reason

The essence of giving gifts 'just because' lies in building connections and expressing love. It’s a way to show appreciation and remind someone of their importance in your life.

It is a kind memory that the gift receiver will not forget.

In a fast-paced world, taking the time to create and give a gift simply because you can is a beautiful thing. Embrace out-of-season gift diving, channel your creativity into DIY gifts, and spread joy without waiting for a designated occasion. Remember, the smallest gestures can create the loudest echoes in someone’s heart.

For even more DIY and upcycled gift ideas, visit HERE.