Orange Spiced Hot Cocoa Espresso for Two

Hi Friends,

Here's  something you can share with 

your sweetheart on Valentine's Day.

Orange Spiced Hot Cocoa Espresso

1 cup any type milk- I used almond milk

1 cup brewed coffee- I used espresso

2 TBSP. unsweetened cocoa powder

2 scoops Collagen powder- Optional- I get mine from Trader Joe's

2  TBSP. sweetener of your choice- honey or maple- I used Agave syrup

fresh peel from 1/2 an orange

1/4 tsp. whole cloves

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Garnish: Whipped cream and cinnamon stick

Adding the Collagen is optional....but really I would love to encourage you to start adding

this to your diet.  Adding 2 scoops gives you another 11 grams of protein.

I put it in my coffee everyday. You can't taste it.

There are vegan and vegetarian powders available also.

It's great for skin, hair, joints and connective tissue.

Directions:

Add all ingredients except orange peel, to a small sauce pan.

Use a small whisk to combine.

Warm on medium heat, while whisking.

Add orange peel, when thoroughly heated, 

strain through a sieve to remove spices and peel.

Garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon stick, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Serves Two!

Enjoy and Happy Valentine's Day.

xo Lisa S

A Faux Drawer-Tea Caddy

Hi Friends!

I was cleaning my kitchen pantry and noticed I had 3 open boxes of tea.

I was thinking I could save some space,

 and it would be more organized if I put the teas together.

I had this wood box and it was just the right size for teabags.

The box measured 10"in length.

3  1/2'' wide and  3  1/2" high.

The box was put together with staples, so I filled the holes

with stain-able wood filler and sanded smooth.

I white washed the box with a little white acrylic paint mixed with water.

When the paint dried I used clear wax to seal.

I found a drawer pull in my stash.

It fit, but it was close!

3 1/4" from center to center of screw holes.

This way I can just pull out the drawer from the pantry!

A little bit easier to see what tea I have.

I love a quick project!

I am a big coffee drinker, but I also enjoy tea once in a while.

These two are my favorites!

The YOGI- Lemon Ginger is delicious and it's caffeine free.

The YOGI- Positive Energy is the best!

It tastes just like sweet tangerines and no need for any added sweetener.

My drawer can  hold plenty of tea......and it looks like I can get some  more.

Yes, I think coffee rules but let me know if you also enjoy tea.

What kind of tea is your favorite

OR  what do you keep on hand for your guests?

xo Lisa S

More Vintage Valentines

Hi Friends!

Can you every have too many Valentines?

I just keep finding more to share-

Perfect for making a banner!

xo Lisa S

Vintage Valentine Postcards

Hi Friends!

Happy Valentine's Day to you! 

 Many times I have shared with you, postcards from my favorite artist.

Here are some more you may like.

Ellen H. Clapsaddle (1865-1934)

   Ellen was an American illustrator/ commercial artist from New York,

 in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

  Her style is easily recognizable and greatly admired.

           She is known as the most prolific souvenir/postcard and greeting card artist of her era.

My favorites include the adorable children's faces that are in

most of the illustrations.

                                           

This little guy is all dressed up in his Valentine suit!

These adorable kids are playing dress-up.

What girl can resist this sweet treat being offered ?

Balloons are timeless !

 If you like these, I have more to see. Check the Labels on the right side
under Ellen H. Clapsaddle.

Have a wonderful day!

xo Lisa S

Coffee Sleeve Mini Journal / Gift Card Holder

Hi Friends,

I wanted to share with you the Valentine I am working on for my sweet, 

coffee loving Husband-

I started with 2 coffee sleeves- 

yes, they were used but clean!

Cut on the left to open, and turn inside out.

Then the corrugated side is on the outside.

Cut the second sleeve apart to make 2 pieces.

I used paper tape to re-enforce the fold on the first sleeve.

I folded 3 sheets of copy paper in half and cut the paper in the shape of the sleeve.

Clips will hold the paper in place.

I used an awl, needle and twine to attach to the cover .

Tied a knot and a bow.

I cut a coffee filter in half and glued it inside the cover.

                                    Then covered the filter paper with a piece of the sleeve,

gluing only bottom and sides.

This will be the gift card pocket.

Do the same on the back side.

Now you will have 2 pockets.

You can add to the pocket.

It's not supposed to be perfect.You can't make a mistake!

It's best when it's a bit messy.

I used coffee to stain the paper.

I used this typewriter print on one of the pages.

You can print this too!

I just tore the picture to fit and glued in place.

Now it's up to you to fill it with love notes.

I'm not sharing that part with you!

I didn't go frilly because it was for my husband, but you could easily decorate

every page with bits of lace and pictures if you like.

On the cover I used a scrap of sheet music a piece of burlap

a few buttons and a copy of a coffee label.

I think it's a fun way to make a gift 

and a gift card holder for someone you love.

xo Lisa S