Crumb Designs

One of a Kind Show begins tomorrow!

2011-11-23T11:09:00.007-05:00

It's arrived! The Toronto One of a Kind Show opens tomorrow and closes on Sunday, December 4.

Crumb will be there with lots of beautiful aprons. Come visit us at Booth # X-61.

Only a few more days...

2011-11-17T23:45:00.002-05:00

Crumb is in Ottawa for only a few more days. We can be found at the Ottawa Signatures Christmas Show, booth #127.

This show is at the beautiful newly built Convention Centre...right downtown. For more information, please visit Signatures Christmas Show website: www.signatures.ca/ottawa/.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:02:00.004-04:00

Now is a good time for a spooky story and some candy. Boooooooo....

Source: weheartit.com via Beka on Pinterest

A little Inspiration on a Sleepy Rainy Day

2011-10-26T14:08:00.006-04:00

Today I'm a little sleepy. Kind of dragging my behind a bit. I like to blame it on the rain and the chilly temperature. As much as I love aprons and sewing them, today I could easily trade it in for pyjamas, a hot cup of tea, my bed, and a good book.

Instead, I had to venture out into the weather for some much needed sewing machine needles. I was fresh out! And with 2 shows coming up (Ottawa Signatures Show and the Toronto One of a Kind Show), there is no time to be out of needles.

Brrr...it is so cold and rainy out there!

No worries, my day has turned around. I stumbled upon a little piece of inspiration, courtesy of Ludwig van Beethoven. It was in the form of one of his piano masterpieces, Piano Sonata No. 21, Allegro Con Brio. I heard it in the car ride back to the studio.

One of my favorite radio hosts, Tom Allen from Shift on CBC Radio 2, played this piece. Wow! Was I blown away. I've heard it before, but today it sounded different. I turned the volume right up. Oh yes indeed! This was the "pick me up" I needed. Forget about coffee, all I needed was a little Beethoven. This piece is so full of optimism and it simply uplifted my day.

Today I am grateful for Beethoven and Tom Allen on Shift. Thank You!

What's your favorite piece of music that gets you going when you're feeling a little tired and in slow motion? I would love to hear.

Back to sewing I go...

Wisteria

2011-06-17T10:21:00.016-04:00

Hello, my dear friends, I have some fantastic news for you! I just received the contract for the Signatures Christmas Show in Ottawa. Crumb is coming to Ottawa AND Toronto this winter! Isn't that fantastic! I will post more information as we get closer to the fall. I think it's a bit too early for you all to think about the upcoming Holiday season...gosh...summer hasn't even arrived yet!

For now...here are some pretty flowers for you to celebrate...it's Friday!

It is a beautiful Wisteria from the Royal Botanical Gardens, of course! (As you may know by now, this is one of my favorite places to go).

I just love this photo. It is from one of my favorite blogs I like to follow, Fabulously French. I just adore how the Wisteria has climbed its way across the stone wall. So pretty.

(photo from here)

Have a wonderful weekend!

After Peterborough...next stop Ottawa

2011-04-07T09:55:00.012-04:00

After the Peterborough Garden Show, we load the van up and make our way to Ottawa for the Originals Spring Craft Sale.

The Originals show is April 14 - 17, 2011, at Lansdowne Park. This year the Originals Spring Craft Sale is celebrating 25 years of success!

To receive $2.00 off admission, please print the coupon below. We'll see you there!

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Peterborough Garden Show is April 8-10, 2011

2011-04-07T09:02:00.010-04:00

The Peterborough Garden Show opens it's doors tomorrow. It is the largest and best local garden show in Ontario. Crumb Designs will be there with garden aprons and cooking aprons in pretty spring floral prints and fun colours.

Plant - Pick - Cook what you grow.

Come visit us at the Peterborough Garden Show from Friday, April 8, to Sunday, April 10 at the Evinrude Centre, Peterborough, Ontario. Click here for more details.

sɹǝʍoןɟ ʎɐpıɹɟ

2011-04-01T10:40:00.005-04:00

¡sɹǝʍoןɟ ʎʇʇǝɹd ǝɥʇ ʎoɾuǝ

(˙ǝɹǝɥ ɯoɹɟ ǝɹnʇɔıd)

˙˙˙puɐ ɥo˙˙˙

April Fool's!!!

Friday Flowers

2011-03-25T10:15:00.006-04:00

Happy Friday!

Have a fabulous weekend!

(left, Audrey apron in pink floral; centre, Sarah Kaye photography; right, Audrey apron in green floral)

Colour Inspiration

2011-03-23T10:56:00.005-04:00

Design Seeds is such a beautiful website filled with endless inspiration for colour. The colour palettes are absolutely stunning.

I had such a hard time choosing a favourite.

For now, at this very moment, my favourite colour palette is "Color Leap". It is so pretty!

Spring is in the Air

2011-03-21T10:24:00.011-04:00

Today is the first day of spring. Mother nature is now unveiling her spring brilliance.

Even though it looks a little dirty and grey out there, beneath the soil and all around us, something magnificent is happening. Now we begin to see the renewal of life. Soon everything will be lush and flourishing. I checked the garden yesterday, and sure enough, the tulips are just breaking soil.

It is so inspiring to hear the birds in the morning. They have come back, although some have never left. Mr. and Mrs. Robin red breast are back and on the hunt for worms.

Forget about going for a brisk walk. You know the kind when you are on a mission to break a sweat. Nope...now I am slow...

I have to stop...listen...look...

...listen...look...look...look.

The air is filled with so many pretty little bird songs. For myself, this is an inspirational time of year and I intend to enjoy every little moment.

(Image is courtesy of myself and is taken at the Royal Botanical Gardens)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T11:27:00.010-04:00

Today is probably the only day of the year in which you can dress head-to-toe in green and get away with it. I say, go for it! Green is a beautiful colour. And there are so many beautiful shades of green...apple, chartreuse, emerald, mint, olive, aquamarine.... Just about something for every mood and even skin tone.

And if you are so inclined on this cheerful little holiday, you can make a shamrock snack out of green peppers...courtesy of Martha Stewart. That's pretty cute. Oh Martha!

(image courtesy of Martha Stewart)

May your pockets be heavy

and your heart be light,

May good luck pursue you

each morning and night.

(an Irish Blessing)

Monday Flowers

2011-03-14T11:27:00.004-04:00

The first day of Spring is only 7 days away! Have you seen any signs of life in your garden? Spring bulbs will be making their way through the soil anytime. Some spring bulbs, such as the Spring Snowflake or Common Snowdrop, appear early in February or March. It is so neat to see colour coming through the snow.

photos: Muscari (left), Spring Snowflake (middle), Helleborus (right)

Jazzed up Salad

2011-03-09T13:07:00.014-05:00

I just had the most delicious salad for lunch. I would take a picture, but it's gone...eaten...in my belly.

It was a very simple salad...red leaf lettuce, cucumber, red pepper, green onion, shredded carrot, avocado, and dressed with fresh squeezed lemon juice and olive oil. But what made it so delicious is the Smoked Wild Albacore Tuna I put on top. This is the most delicious canned tuna I have ever had and it sure did jazz up my salad. This heavenly tuna is from The Fishery.

The first time I met the guys from The Fishery was at the One of a Kind Show, in Toronto. Their booth was just behind mine at the Spring 2010 show. They are such nice guys and their product is amazing! AMAZING! We have the smoked salmon pate and a whole sleeve of different types of smoked canned fish. This product is on my "must have" shopping list, right next to Maple Syrup.

Next time you are at the One of a Kind Show, check them out. They even have candied salmon. So delicious. You can also order on line.

Have a great day!

Happy Pancake Day!

2011-03-08T13:40:00.007-05:00

Yum...Pancakes for dinner!

Pancakes are so much fun to make. They can be healthy whole grain pancakes, gluten-free pancakes, ricotta pancakes, blueberry pancakes, apple-cinnamon pancakes...are you drooling yet? I sure am. The best thing about pancakes is the pat of butter that melts down mount pancake, and the real Ontario maple syrup drizzled on top.

Here are some quick facts about real Maple Syrup, courtesy of Fultons Pancake House and Sugar Bush:

- Contains Antioxidants & Anti-inflammatory properties (Yay!)
- Contains 10% calcium, equal to that in milk. (Yay!)
- Is an excellent source of potassium. (Yay!)
- Contains several trace vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and vitamins and trace amounts of amino acids) (Double Yay!)
- Is low in sodium (Yay!)
- Is lowest in calories of all the natural sweetners. (right on!)

Enjoy those pancakes tonight!

(Photo courtesy of Where.ca)

It's Time to Plan the Garden!

2011-03-07T09:59:00.006-05:00

The birds are tweeting, the snow is teasing...when can we start gardening! Well, we do have a bit of a wait until we can start playing in the soil. But underneath all that snow, the plants are getting ready to reveal their new buds and stems. I can hardly wait!

Now is a good time to do some planning as well as go through your gardening tools. Do your pruners need sharpening and oiling? Have you purchased your seeds? Are your garden gloves and apron clean and handy? Yes, there is still lots to do while old man winter finishes his job outside.

Crumb Designs will be at the Peterborough Garden Show, April 8 - 10. This is a great place to get some ideas for your garden. And while you are there, drop by the booth to purchase a durable Crumb Garden Apron. This is a really handy apron. Perfect for keeping all of your tools close at hand. Plus it has a pretty bow in the back. Of course!

Have a fabulous Monday!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T10:56:00.010-05:00

If I had a single flower for every time I think about you,

I could walk forever in my garden.

(attributed to Claudia Ghandi)

One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale - Booth # Y58

2010-11-11T13:56:00.015-05:00

The One of a Kind Show is coming up in just a little over a week. Our booth is bigger this year and that means more aprons.

The show starts on November 25th, and ends on December 5th. We are located at booth # Y58.

Click on the link below to receive $3.00 off regular admission!

One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale

Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes' Blvd., Toronto, ON

Show Hours:
Weekdays and Saturday: 10am - 9pm, Sunday: 10am - 6pm

Click below for $3.00 off regular admission!

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AND SAVE $3.00.
ENTER COUPON CODE #: ADpvg72

See you there!

100 Mile Finds

2010-09-13T12:18:00.007-04:00

Crumb Designs now has a new online store at 100 Mile Finds. Now that we are entering into the Fall season (technically, it is still summer!), there are lots of occasions coming up in which one will need an apron. Just think...apple pie, pumpkin pie, turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy...I think you know what I'm hinting at.

The ladies at 100 Mile Finds has written a lovely review about Crumb Designs and myself. Thank you so much for your kind words. To read the review, click HERE.

See you at 100 Mile Finds!

Crumb is now at Yummy Stuff!

2010-09-09T09:15:00.010-04:00

Hello everyone!

I would love to introduce to you ... (drum roll) ... Crumb Designs at Yummy Stuff!

Yummy Stuff is a retail bakery where you can tempt your taste buds with some delectable desserts. From wedding cakes and custom cakes, to cookies, and tarts...and now aprons by Crumb Designs...Yummy Stuff has something for everyone.

Yummy Stuff also has a blog, Eat Yummy Stuff, in which they feature a cupcake of the month.

The cupcake for September is a take on the good 'ol campfire favorites...roasted marshmallows and s'mores.

Get ready for this ... are you ready ... okay ... graham cracker base, chocolate cupcake with chocolate filling and ... ahem ... a perfectly toasted marshmallow topping. HELLO! Oh yum!

So Drop by Yummy Stuff and get yourself a treat and check out the new selection of Crumb Designs aprons.

For more information, please visit www.yummystuff.ca.

Yummy Stuff is located at 1660 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON

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I solemnly swear...

2010-06-15T12:41:00.006-04:00

Today I just took the Handmade Pledge.

I, Jennifer, do solemnly swear that I make everything with my own two hands. I'm proud of my workmanship and proud to be handmade in Canada.

Gosh, that felt really good.

At last...the Peonies

2010-06-10T11:01:00.013-04:00

Last...but surely not least...are the Peonies at the Laking Garden. I think I will just let the pictures speak for themselves.

My favorite. The blooms are so beautiful and delicate. The long floppy petals and the long yellow stamens gives this peony such a wonderful whimsical personality. I just love it's whimsical beauty. I believe this Peony is called "Seashell"...but I could be mistaken. Seashell or not...it's still very beautiful.

The bud of a Peony is so remarkable. All those petals are all tightly nestled in a perfect little bud, ready to blossom into the most perfection that man could never re-create. This is the beautiful hand of Mother Nature.

Yes, and some of those neat little balls of petals can turn into the largest flower. This one was literally the size of my face.

I hope you enjoyed the flowers! Remember to take time out of your day to connect with a piece of Mother Nature. Stop and smell a flower today, or give a nod of hello to a tree. They will smile right back at you.

Have a great day!

Irises at the Laking Garden

2010-06-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

Seeing the Irises and Peonies all in bloom at the Laking Garden is so magical! Once we walked onto the terrace that overlooks the Iris and Peony garden, I instantly had goose bumps and I was as giddy as a little girl. I hung off my sweethearts arm and kept whispering to him "oh my gosh, it's so beautiful...look at all the flowers and colours! Isn't it amazing!"

I must mention that last Saturday was our 5th anniversary...so this turned out to be a very magical and romantic day.

I could've easily taken hundreds more pictures then I did. In fact, I ended up handing over the camera to my sweetie so I could enjoy the flowers instead of constantly snapping pictures.

The Iris blossoms remind of pretty silk chiffon dresses with lots of flowing layers and ruffles!

I will save the Peonies for tomorrow. Have a great day!

Wish List

2010-06-08T00:00:00.006-04:00

There are a few plants that I fell in love with at the RBG...well, more than a few. Here is my wish list:

1. Prairie Smoke, Geum Triflorum, Family: Rosaceae

This is one of the most interesting plants I have ever seen and it sure does make me smile. Praire Smoke is a perennial wildflower that is native to the North American woodland and prairie environments. It likes full sun, and is drought tolerant.

2. Foxglove Beard-Tongue, Penstemon digitalis, 'Husker Red', Family: Scrophulariaceae

3. Little Blue-Eyed Grass, Sisyrinchium montanum, Family: Iridaceae

I love the little blue flowers that stand atop the grass. This grass is native to Ontario and the flower is a very important nectar source for pollinators.

4. Wood Sage, Salvia nemorosa, 'Caradonna', Family: Lamiaceae

Nice vibrant colours from blue, purple to mauve.

5. Golden Japanese Forest Grass, Hakonechloa macra, 'Aureola'

6. Japanese Blood Grass, Imperata cylindrica, 'Red Baron'

7. Tulip Tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, Family: Magnoliaceae

I love this tree. I love the colour, shape and size of the leaves. The top of the leaf is a deeper green then the underside, which is more of a chartreuse green (my favorite green!).

Tomorrow I will take you through the Laking Garden at the RBG. This is where all the Irises and Peonies are in bloom. I have many more pictures to share with you. Have a great day!

Royal Botanical Gardens

2010-06-07T13:15:00.019-04:00

My honey and I spent the day last Saturday at the Royal Botanical Gardens. As you may already know, this is one of my favorite places to visit and spend the day. I took well over 200 pictures. I could've easily taken more...EASILY.

We began our day at the Hendrie Park. Hendrie Park consists many many gardens. We visited the Rose Garden, and the Morrison Woodland Garden. The roses were absolutely magnificent and I found a few gems from the Woodland Garden to add to my wish list.

My favorite rose of the day (oh I hate choosing, but this one spoke to me that day) was the Floribunda Rose, "Escapade".

Tomorrow I will post my wish list I created from visiting Hendrie. Have a great day!

peek-a-boo!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T12:17:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mom's out there! Have a wonderful day!

I gave my Mom a ring-a-ling this morning to wish her a Happy Mother's Day and guess where she was...on her hands and knees in the dirt planting Geraniums at my Grandmother's. It is only 4 degrees outside, with possible flurries. That's hardcore! I see where I get my gardening bug from. I must say that I'm feeling a little sad that I'm not by her side helping her in the garden. Work has been so busy and I haven't been able to get away ... oh how I hate that I just said that! And the one person that is always so understanding....is Mom. I miss her very much.

Here is a picture of my Mom and I on her 65th birthday last summer.

Many Thanks!

2010-04-26T12:26:00.010-04:00

A big "Thank You" to all of you who visited Crumb Designs at the One of a Kind Show in Toronto, and the Originals Show in Ottawa. This was my first time bringing Crumb to Ottawa. What a treat! I look forward to coming back to Ottawa very soon! Here are some pictures from the Originals show.

After my sweetie and I moved out of the show on Sunday night, we scooted over to the Elgin Street Diner for a pint and plate of poutine. Oh YUM! It was so delicious and I was completely stuffed. Needless to say, I slept like a baby that night.

The next day, before heading back to Mississauga, my sweetie and I spent a day doing the tourist stuff. Last time we visited, we went to the Art Gallery. This time we decided to go on a guided tour of the Mint, which was very cool. After that, we took a stroll across the bridge to Gatineau. We really wanted to go to the Museum of Civilization, but it was closed...it was Monday. Next time!

This is too cool! The buses in Ottawa are decorated like the Canadian flag!

While we were waiting for the 1pm tour of the Mint, I visited the most beautiful bookstore, Nicholas Hoare. With Classical music playing in the background, beautifully polished wooden book shelves, and a gorgeous wooden ladder that rolls across the shelves...I could spend awhile in that store.

And of course, I could not finish this post off without some tulips. I took this picture at the park right by the Art Gallery of Ottawa. The display of tulips and daffodils in Ottawa are so beautiful. I wish I could be there for the Tulip Festival. Perhaps next year!

Crumb Designs in Ottawa.

2010-04-13T23:23:00.004-04:00

Crumb Designs will be in Ottawa at the Originals Spring Craft Sale, from April 15 - 18. We will be at booth #323.

This is our first out of town show. Exciting! Especially since it is so close to Mother's Day.

Crumb has so many great gift ideas for Mommy. Whether your Mom is interested in arts & crafts, gardening, baking, or cooking, Crumb has something for that special lady in your life.

If you would like more information, please visit www.originalsshow.ca.

Only a couple more days until show time!

2010-03-28T10:51:00.025-04:00

Only a couple more days until the One of a Kind Show. I have been non-stop sewing and putting the finishing touches on my new line of aprons. I am so excited about this collection. I do hope you visit my booth, D-33. I'm right next to the food section....lucky me! Which reminds me - I must remember to pick up more maple syrup and some wine jelly from Tracy's jams. Yum!

Here's a little glimpse of what will be at the show.

Ava Halter Apron for ladies (left), and for girls (right)

A trio of aprons. Shown here is Audrey Apron for ladies (left),

Audrey Apron for girls (centre), Garden Apron for ladies (right)

Audrey Apron for ladies (blue stripe, green stripe, pink stripe)

Audrey Apron for ladies and Henry Apron for boys, blue stripe

Small Knitting Needle Holders

As I get ready for another day of sewing...full force...I'm contemplating which flowers to put in my booth. I did tulips with pussy willows last year. I very much wanted to force some spring buds, but I'm a little too late for that. I have been carrying around with me for a while a list (which I got from the below) of the best buds to force. I sure do wish I owned one of these. Perhaps it is time.

(Source unknown...sorry!)

The writing is very little in this picture, so here is the list:

Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

Saucer magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana)

Yoshino flowering cherry (Prunus x yedoensis)

Flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa)

Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia)

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)

One thing I did get my little paws on is a delightful Hellebore. A Helleborus "Ivory Prince". Oh my! These are absolutely stunningly beautiful. I had them on my mind all winter and when I received the latest Canadian Gardening Magazine, there was an article about these beauties. One page was an entire picture of a Hellebore. Now that's my kind of centrefold! So I finally picked one up a couple of weeks ago at Sheridan Nurseries. I was stalking the nursery for a bit wondering when they would arrive....finally! They are here!

Have a wonderful Sunday! I will try to check back in before the show.

Ta-ta for now!

Oh Canada!

2010-03-01T11:27:00.007-05:00

Canada, these tulips are for you. They are proudly red and shining bright towards the sky.

It has been a busy couple of weeks. I have 2 shows coming up in April, The One of a Kind Spring Show (Toronto) and The Originals Spring Show (Ottawa), so it has been extremely difficult concentrating on getting ready for these shows when Canada was in full force in the Winter Olympics. This is also why Friday Flowers became Monday Flowers this week.

But today is a new day. Back to reality. Good bye Virtue & Moir, so long Bilodeau, and farewell Crosby. I will miss you all.

Okay...back to work! I have garden aprons to make.

Friday Flowers Standing Tall

2010-02-19T10:29:00.002-05:00

I just love how these tulips are reaching for the standing tall and reaching for the sun.

Have a wonderful Friday!

Lovey Days

2010-02-16T11:36:00.004-05:00

I hope you had a wonderful Valentine's weekend!

One of my very good friends, Kelly, got married to her sweetheart Paul on Saturday. This was probably the most love-filled Valentine's I've ever experienced. The wedding was so much fun! I would share some pictures with you, but I accidentally re-formatted my camera last night. That means all my pictures are deleted! Drats! Silly me! I was fiddling around with the darn thing to see if I could learn any new camera tricks. Lo and behold, next thing I know, the memory card was wiped clean. Bummer.

(photo from here)

Friday loves Pink Tulips

2010-02-12T11:07:00.007-05:00

Happy Friday!

Friday ... I mean Monday Flowers

2010-02-08T10:23:00.010-05:00

My once a week flower inspiration is a few days late. On Thursday I went to visit my family in Peterborough. It was a short visit, but a good and much needed one. My 5 year old niece, Sarah, painted a picture for me. It was so neat to here her explain her painting to me - the sun, the heart, the house, and the blue blue sky. So sweet. I've hung the painting in my studio. It's a very nice piece of inspiration and it makes me smile and think of my sweet Sarah.

The highlight of my visit was hugs from Mom! I love my Mom and the older I get, I appreciate her more and more. She took me to her personal trainer and we worked out together. Boy o' boy, she kicked my butt. She's 65 - I'm 36 - and she can lift more than me. Amazing! She is such an inspiration. I am very much looking forward to getting in the garden with her this spring. I love how she talks about the garden and the things she loves about certain plants. And I just love how she easily states the latin names for the plants. It just comes naturally to her. She inspires me. I love you Mom! You're the best!

Here is a beautiful tulip to brighten up your Monday! This is a Double Late Tulip, Tulipa 'Carnaval de Nice'. It's absolutely beautiful!

Have a great day!

Friday Flowers

2010-01-29T10:11:00.003-05:00

It is absolutely freezing outside. From now until well into the Spring, I will be showing every Friday a photo from my photography collection of tulips and other Spring flowers. You know I am such a huge fan of the Royal Botanical Gardens! This is where I took these pictures. Enjoy! And in the midst of these cold winter days, remember that Spring is on it's way!

This photo is one of my favs (I have many favorites). I love how all the tulips are standing tall and reaching for the sun. I'm sure that is how we are all feeling right now.

Happy Friday!

Studio Update

2010-01-23T08:00:00.006-05:00

It has been a long time coming, but my studio is almost finished. The painting was completed in the summer, but the furniture placement and organization has still yet to be finalized. My studio space was quickley tidied up and temporarily organized for the Christmas season, but it never felt right. The flow was just not there. I cannot tell you the number of times I've bumped into my ironing board!

So I've booked my mister for the weekend to help with arranging the furniture and to help with hanging some shelving up on the walls. Oh, and window treatments would be a nice thing to have. I can hardly!

I also need to do a trip to Lee Valley. They have this really great plant hanging hardware. It's actually called a Victorian Lamp Holder, but can also be used to hold a plant. Floor space is at a minimal, so this is a great option! And I must have plants in my studio!

(Photo courtesy of Lee Valley)

Have a great weekend!

Friday Flowers and Blue Skies

2010-01-22T15:28:00.001-05:00

The weather was absolutely beautiful today! I had a feeling it was when I heard some birdies outside my window this morning. A little taste of spring in January.

Have a wonderful weekend! Spend it with family and friends and cherish every moment! Happy Friday!

Haiti

2010-01-16T13:05:00.004-05:00

A Happy belated New Years to everyone!

I have been thinking about what to write about these days, but with the horrific situation in Haiti, it just doesn't feel right to talk about pretty things. Right now my heart is in Haiti. It pains me to see the horrific suffering. I can not imagine what these people are going through. I have this urge to go to Haiti and help. I'm not exactly sure how helpful I could be - I, shamefully, do not know CPR. But I just want to go and comfort the children. I read somewhere that nearly 50% of the Haiti population are under 18 years old. These people need help desperately. Please help in any way you can.

Here are some helpful links:

www.redcross.ca

www.unicef.org

One of a Kind Show Coupon for you!

2009-11-09T11:07:00.010-05:00

Good Monday morning to you!

I would like to pass on this e-coupon to you for the One of a Kind Christmas show. This coupon will instantly save $3 off the regular on-site adult admission. This offer is available online only.

Using the discount code provided on the coupon below, purchase your tickets here.

You may also copy and paste the below address in your tool bar ~ https://www.microspec.com/tix123/etic.cfm?code=ooakx09

See you there!

A Perfect Fall Day

2009-11-02T09:41:00.005-05:00

Happy Monday!

Yesterday I spent the entire day in the garden. I had a great time playing in the dirt. Not to mention, it was a much needed break from working in the studio. My Mom told me once that gardening is in fact very good for stress. It has something to do with the bacteria that is released in the soil. This friendly bacteria increases the seratonin levels in our bodies. I have yet to meet a cranky gardener, so this good be true!

I'm a little behind schedule with prepping the garden for winter and plantint bulbs for spring, but, thankfully, yesterday was a perfect sunny fall day to get all of this accomplished. I am so excited about the bulbs I planted. The colour scheme is yellow and purple. I planted a variety of crocuses, narcissus, and tulips. One of the tulips I fell in love with at the Royal Botanical Gardens. It is the Blue Diamond Double Late Tulip. I took a picture last spring when visiting the RBG. Taking pics of the marker is a great idea to remember the names.

Here is a list of what was planted:

Tulipa single late 'Queen of Night'

Tulipa double late 'Blue Diamond'

Narcissus 'Ice Follies'

Narcissus 'Dick Wilden' (Double Daffodil)

Giant Yellow Crocus (crocus flavus)

Giant Purple Crocus (crocus flavus)

Only 6 months until Spring! Oh boy.

Upcoming Shows!

2009-10-13T10:29:00.008-04:00

Where did the summer go?! Actually, my summer was spent mostly painting and moving. I'm happy to say that the new Crumb studio is pretty much settled in. There are a few things that still need to be done, such as putting up more shelving. But for now, it is time to focus on the upcoming Christmas season. I can't believe I just wrote "Christmas".

Well, let's get to it shall we? I'm working on a new line of aprons AND I'm introducing some home accessories into the line.

Here is a list of upcoming shows where you can find us:

HOOPLA! Show

Friday, October 16 & Saturday, October 17, 2009

Show Hours: 10 am to 5 pm

www.hooplashow.com

1573 Bloor St. West - Hall B

Toronto, ON

One Of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale

November 26 - December 6, 2009

Please see website for show hours and directions.

www.oneofakindshow.com

Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place

Toronto, ON

See you there!

Jennifer

2009-06-29T13:46:00.010-04:00

Happy Monday!

I hope you had a great weekend. Mine was extremely busy with a garage sale, painting, and getting ready to re-design my home studio. I can hardly wait until it's all finished! My walls are going to be painted Benjamin Moore's Gray Mist and the trim Cloud White. Have a look at my colour inspiration. Let me know what you think!

2009-06-19T12:44:00.030-04:00

I found something so delightful in my garden today. My streptocarpella is in full bloom and it looks so healthy! The blooms are so pretty and delicate. It is so interesting to see where the blooms grow from the plant. They kind of grown in tiers as the plant grows taller.

I just love how the purple flower looks against the yellow of my oxalis. Very pretty.

So far, my balcony on the 20th floor is growing and blossoming into a wonderful garden escape. Because my balcony is quite long and wraps around our, I decided to chose the furthest corner that is protected from the wind. I have tried the last 3 years for a successful garden on this balcony, and so far this is my most successful year. You could say I've learned a lot about my growing conditions. First of all, because I'm on the 20th floor and in shade, I have to find plants that are hardy in zone 3 and likes part shade/shade. The plants I have chosen this year are Irish Moss, Heuchera Key Lime Pie, Variegated Lily of the Valley, Bleeding Heart, Tuber Begonias, Tiarella, Huechera Obsidian, Jacob's Ladder, Chocolate Chip Ajuga, Oxalis, Echeveria, Lady's Mantle, Sedum, Streptocarpella, Violet, Periwinkle, Sweet Woodruff, Cerinthe Purple Bells, Lamium, and Corydalis Lutea. I think that is all...I think? I am so happy with my choices!

Here is a taste of my secret garden.

Cerinthe, Begonias, Corydalis, Irish Moss, and Periwinkle

Huechera, Tiarella, and Jacob's Ladder

Ajuga, Huechera, Bleeding Heart, Lily of the Valley, Violet, and Begonias.

As far as pests go...there are only a couple I need to worry about - squirrels and fungus gnats. You wouldn't think I would get many pests on the 20th floor. I sure do! Would you believe that I was startled by 2 racoons hanging out in my garden last year! I remember it was night time and their glowing eyes startled me. I left them alone for the night and I was so happy to find them gone in the morning. I used to get a lot of squirrels, but not this time. Hen manure is my trick. I just sprinkle some on top of the soil. Squirrles really hate this stuff.

The pestiest of pests I have are fungus gnats. In the last 2 gardening seasons I had spent a lot of money on plants only to have this nasty gnats eat the roots of my plants. I was so sad to gradually see one by one my plants shrivel up and die. The problem is that Fungus gnats love moist soil, especially moist organic soil. So my cure is to mix my soil with equal parts of sand. This allows my soil to drain easily and prevents any puddling on the surface. After I the plants are potted, I give them a good water and layer a good 1/2" of dry sand on top, followed by a layer of cedar mulch. The sand and mulch is good because it also helps keep the moisture in the containers. I shouldn't have to water my plants too much this season. So far so good. I do regular check ups on the plants and soil in the morning and in the afternoon. But I don't mind. I'd rather be in the garden than inside.

Success on the Front Lawn!

2009-06-02T17:35:00.011-04:00

I am so happy to say that the Yard Sale for the Cure was a success. Between Belly Catering, In Order Design, and yours truly - Crumb Designs - we raised over $1,000 for the treatment and cure for Breast Cancer. It was really nice to see people come together for a good cause. If you missed the sale, no worries - we will be back next year!

Here are some pictures from the event:

Three Women Entrepreneurs Support the Cure for Breast Cancer

2009-05-28T14:54:00.020-04:00

On Saturday, May 30th, help fund the fight against breast cancer by purchasing something fantastic at a yard sale for the cure. Belly Catering, Crumb Designs, and In Order Design are bringing their businesses to the front yard on May 30th, 2009, starting at 8:00 am, as part of a nation-wide event, the Yard Sale for the Cure.

Melissa Bobby Sosa, owner of the professional organizing company In Order Design, has been collecting items from her clients for the yard sale. She says "it helps people make the decision to get rid of things when they know it will go to help others."

In addition to the donations from Melissa's clients, Nicole Kruzick, owner of Belly Catering, will have a stand set up selling a delicious collection of her fresh baked sweets and refreshments; and I, Jennifer, will be selling my collection of beautiful inspiring handmade aprons.

Proceeds from the sales will be donated to Breast Cancer research and treatment.

Taking place in selected neighborhoods across Canada, the Yard Sale for the Cure is an annual event that raises money for the cure and treatment of Breast Cancer.

ABOUT BELLY CATERING - Belly is a full service catering business. Catered events range from corporate to private - lunches, brunches, cocktail parties + dinners. The Belly storefront, located at 1574 Queen Street West, offers sweet + savoury snacks, meals to go + Fred's breads as well as delicious espresso based coffees. Belly is open 7 days a week. Visit www.bellycatering.com

ABOUT CRUMB DESIGNS - Crumb Designs is a Canadian company that designs inspiring items for everyday living. For adults and children, Crumb's line of handmade aprons are flirty, romantic, with a hint of nostalgia. Visit www.crumbdesigns.com

ABOUT IN ORDER DESIGN - In Order Design provides organized solutions. Whether downsizing, moving, remodelling or decluttering, In Order Design will provide you with a Professional Organizer who can guide you through the process. Let In Order Design provide you with an organized space and systems that work.

Visit www.inorderdesign.com

For further information about the Yard Sale for the Cure, please visit www.yardsaleforthecure.com

2009-05-16T13:21:00.019-04:00

Last week me and my boyfriend went to the Arboretum and the Rock Garden at the Royal Botanical Gardens, which is located in Burlington Ontario. We go every year in May to snap pictures and just soak in all the loveliness and beauty of the blooming spring bulbs and trees.

It is so hard to choose where to begin...the arboretum, which has the magnificent Magnolia trees, or the Rock Garden, which has an unbelievable display of tulips, and daffodils. Last time we ended our day with a picnic at the arboretum, so it was decided ~ start at the arboretum.

The Magnolia trees were out of this world. When I walked within the 7 or 8 trees they have, I felt as though I walked in a room where the fragrant soft pink petals made up the ceiling, the floor, and the walls. It was so magical! I took a lot of pictures, but sadly the pictures don't capture the true essence of this experience.

Next stop...Rock Garden to see the tulips!

This is when I really wish I had one of those professional types of cameras with the long lense. But instead I've got my handy dandy lil' digital camera - but watch out, I know how to use it!

Mother nature sure is amazing!

Welcome Spring!

2009-03-27T10:19:00.023-04:00

Spring is sprung, the grass is ris.

I wonder where the birdies is!

My Mom was reciting this little poem to me on the first day of spring. It is so sweet! I love birds. They are such neat little creatures with their sweet songs.

When I was a little girl visiting my Grandparents up on the Niagara Escarpment, every day my Grandfather would pull out his binoculars and bird books. We would wait patiently to catch a glimpse and identify the birds that would pass by the big bay window or stop for a snack on my Grandpa's bird feeder. I loved spending that time with him. We would see so many types of birds, but I can only remember the names of the most common types such as the Cardinal, and the Blue Jay.

A great place to go for some bird watching is the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. They have a number of hiking trails. Here's a picture of a Blue Jay from the last time I was there. I think I'm due for a hike and some exploring. Next time I will bring my binoculars. That's what I'll do.....

But first, I have 2 gift shows coming up very soon. From April 1 - 5th, Crumb Designs will be at the One of a Kind Spring show, and from April 9 - 11th, at the Peterborough Garden Show. I will have my whole line of aprons for sale as well as some new Garden aprons!

Here are a couple of pictures of me in my Crumb Designs garden apron last spring. I look a little messy but I'm so happy to working in the dirt.

See you at the shows!

Comfort dessert

2009-02-18T19:03:00.009-05:00

Good ol' fashioned homemade chocolate pudding has got to be one of my favorite comfort desserts. Lately I've been craving it quite a bit. I try to switch it up and make vanilla pudding...but there truly is nothing better than a fresh batch of warm chocolate pudding. I use the recipe from the Joy of Cooking cookbook - which, by the way, is my favorite cookbook. Anything I make out of this book is absolutely delicious. One of the things I love about this book is that I can actually learn about the food I'm cooking as well as learn new cooking techniques. It's my cooking bible!

To make you drool just a little bit....

Funny thing, the recipe says it makes 4 servings, but it always turns out to be 3. I can't figure it out, except that maybe my servings are slightly larger. Honestly, who can have just a small bowl of this stuff. I could eat the whole pot easily!

Chocolate is in love with pink

2009-02-05T17:39:00.010-05:00

Red and pink hearts abound in February, the most romantic month of the year. This time of the year can be so bleak and dreary. It's either mild and gloomy outside, or it is sunny and freezing. You just can't win! So to get us in the spirit I am commemorating a month of chocolate and pink hearts with a collection of Crumb aprons. These aprons are sure to inspire you to concoct delicious chocolaty desserts, or maybe make some homemade Valentine cards for the special people in your life. You can find these aprons and more in my Etsy boutique.

Spring tease

2009-01-29T14:30:00.009-05:00

Snow snow...as much as I love thee...please go away and come back in November. I can't wait for the spring time buds to appear! Today I've been doing some sewing...plugging away at my almost endless pile of apron neck ties...when I looked over and noticed the beautiful buds on my orchid. It has been a couple of months since my orchid had flowers, so this is exciting! Even though it is an orchid and is not native to the Ontario motherland, it sure is a nice reminder of what spring will be bringing us.

I'll have a hot cup of tea please...

2009-01-12T18:35:00.015-05:00

Oh boy...we're supposed to get more snow tonight and tomorrow. As much as I love the white stuff, I'm starting to miss the green stuff...and we have at least 3 months left of winter! Actually, there really isn't one season I dislike. Each of them has their own splendid character. I love that cozy feeling I get when coming in from the winter cold...when the heat warms my chilly cheeks...you know that really neat burning feeling? You don't get that in Summer. And how about those snow angels? Imagine making one in the sand? Ouch! I don't think so. What I really appreciate are the home-cooked comfort foods - like stew - and, even more, a hot cup of tea....ahhhh...

Welcome!

2009-01-10T17:50:00.006-05:00

Happy 2009! And welcome to my blog! This is where I will be sharing with you all the exciting things that are happening with Crumb Designs. I hope you enjoy!

I believe 2009 is going to be a great year!

Cheers!