The Making of Eden

:: DIY Valentine II

2012-02-09T14:48:00.000+01:00

Bei Bloesem kids hab ich dieses zuckersüße Projekt abgeschaut.
Ein Treasurebook, ein kleines Schatzbüchle, das aus kleinen Papiertäschchen besteht, die mit kleine Schätzen gefüllt werden, z.b. Gutschein, Photos oder Erinnerungsstücke an schöne Momente. Wer sich die Tütenbastelei sparen will, nimmt einfach Butterbrotpapiertüten. Die dann einfach für die gewünschte Größe zurechtschneiden.

Source: bkids.typepad.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: DIY Valentine II

2012-02-09T14:38:00.000+01:00

Die Rückseiten von Kartenspielen sind auch sehr dekorativ und eignen sich hervorragend für eine kleine Girlande. Need to check my Haus und Hof Thriftstore for old cards.

Source: countryliving.com via Anja on Pinterest

Chic and easy. For extra WOW adorn the geometrics with a message.

Source: mila-loveology.blogspot.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: DIY Valentine I

2012-02-09T14:31:00.002+01:00

Selbstgemachtes vom Lieblingsliebling ist das schönste.
Der obligatorische Check bei Martha bleibt da nicht aus....

Source: thecraftsdept.marthastewart.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Instant green

2012-02-06T14:01:00.001+01:00

Irgendwann hat man den grauen Winter satt. Und wenn man nicht das Glück hat, dort zu wohnen wo es wenigstens winterlich weiß ist, braucht man endlich mal wieder ein wenig Farbe. Vorzugsweise was Grünes.

Auf der Fensterbank blühen schon Narzissen, Primel und Schneeglöckchen

Ein weiterer Tipp für "Ich brauch jetzt unbedingt was Grünes!".
Am Küchenfenster macht es sich besonders gut und schmeckt auch noch gut:
einfach von Schalotten das obere Grün abschneiden und die Wurzel in ein Glas mit wenig Wasser stellen. Nach kurzer Zeit treiben die Schalotten aus und man hat immer was Frisches zum Kochen zur Hand.

Source: The kitchn

:: Plan early: V-Day

2012-02-05T15:54:00.001+01:00

In 9 Tagen ist Valentinstag. Ein Feiertag für die Liebe. Und ein Feiertag des Handgemachten. Denn was gibt es schöneres als ein selbst gebasteltes Geschenk.
Egal wie groß, egal wie klein, egal wie schief. Hauptsache mit Liebe gemacht.
Da ich mitten in einem Valentinsprojekt stecke, vorerst ein paar kommerzielle, trashige Vorschläge unter 20 Euro.
P.s. Urban Outfitter Läden gibt es in Hamburg und - ganz neu jetzt - in Berlin, Mitte.

:: Baby, it's cold outside

2012-01-30T20:08:00.001+01:00

Just the right temperature outside (-6°C) to warm your imagination and inspiration with Pinterest.
Draußen sind -6 °C - drinnen wird mir ganz warm ums Herz, wenn ich mich (mal wieder) auf Pinterest verliere. Mann, die Zeit vergeht aber auch schnell...

Source: serendipitousromance.tumblr.com via Thea on Pinterest

Source: junkaholique.com via Anja on Pinterest

Source: blogs.elpais.com via MisakoMimoko on Pinterest

Source: awelltraveledwoman.tumblr.com via MrsCheese on Pinterest

Source: busybeingfabulous.com via ai on Pinterest

Source: suziebeezie.tumblr.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Hausbesetzer

2012-01-29T19:10:00.003+01:00

Steckt nicht in jedem von uns ein kleiner Hausbesitzer?
Jede Menge Auswahl gibt es bei Cabin Porn. Hier kann man in bestechend schöne Bilder schwelgen ohne ins Kalte hinauszumüssen.

Source: freecabinporn.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Japanese Weeks: Food

2012-01-27T15:05:00.002+01:00

Was dem Deutschen sein Butterbrot ist, ist dem Japaner sein Sushi. Denkste.
Neben dem Importschlager Sushi steht beim Japaner auch Hausmannskost auf dem Tisch. Das ist meist verschiedenstes Gemüse, Fleisch mit Reis oder Nudeln. Alles ganz einfach und schnell zubereitet.
Bei mir gab's gesten eine Interpretation der Buddha Bowl. Dazu Spinat mit Sesam geröstet, Porree und Sellerie gedünstet, ein bisschen Ingwersyrup und ein bisschen Sojasoße dort, dazu angebratener Smoked Tofu. Extra Beilagen Avocado und Lachs.
Statt Reis hab ich Quinoa - sieht aus wie Reis mit Locken - dazu gemacht. Believe it or not: I can't cook proper rice.

:: Illustrationen von Anne Smith

2012-01-27T14:01:00.000+01:00

Rechtzeitig zum Wochenende ein paar schöne entspannte Illus von Anne Smith.

Source: annesmith.net via Anja on Pinterest

Apropos: Im neuem Uppercase Nr. 12 ist ein kleines Feature von ihr. Bei Victoria von SFGirl by Bay
und hier kann man schon ein wenig ins Heft spicken

:: From my work desk

2012-01-25T18:29:00.002+01:00

Geburtstage stehen vor der Tür und als ich in meinem Fundus blickte, lachte mich meine Oblatenbildersammlung an. Eigentlich viel zu schade, um ungenutzt in der Schublade zu liegen. Darum hab ich mir eine kleine Geburtstagskarte im "Schultafel Look" ausgedacht.

Last year I did a similar project for the red one for Valentines Day: a place mat made from white paper and dollies, adorned with black ink liner and Albumbilder.

This time I opted for gray paper and a white ink liner.

A perfect match to imitate a chalkboard look.

:: Japanese Weeks: Magazines

2012-01-23T21:04:00.000+01:00

Wenn ich auf Reisen bin, interessiert mich der everyday way of life der Einheimischen am meisten. Das heißt, dass ich lieber einen Nachmittag in einen Pariser Cafe rumtrödle als mir mit tausenden Touristen die Mona Lisa im Louvre anzusehen.
An easy way to connect with japanischer Alltag sind Zeitschriften. Die haben eine Menge Bilder und man muss nicht unbedingt fließend japanisch können.
My favourites are Come home! and Stitch Ideas, just to name the top two. Ich würde sogar soweit gehen, dass japanische "Bastelbücher" die besten und schönsten sind was Inspiration, Originalität und Layout angeht. Einfache Schritt für Schritt Anleitungen und Abbildungen machen die Umsetzung der vorgestellten Projekte absolut umsetzbar.
Sehr gute Quelle für japanische Zeitschriften ist übrigens Pomadour's Craft Cafe, unkompliziert, günstig und schnell direkt aus Japan.

Source: hellosandwich.blogspot.com via Anja on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Japan Weeks

2012-01-23T16:22:00.000+01:00

Japan ist ein Land, das mich völlig fasziniert. Und irgendwie werd ich das Gefühl nicht los, dass sich Deutsche und Japaner ähneln. Zumindest in Disziplin, Ordentlichkeit und Pünktlichkeit.
To kickstart die Japanischen Wochen ein Blick in das Heiligste jeder japanischen (und deutschen) Hausfrau.

:: Fashion flashes

2012-01-23T16:15:00.002+01:00

Source: blog.sessun.com via Anja on Pinterest

Source: transientexpression.com via Charleen on Pinterest

I don't follow the fashion hype. But these I like. Mille fleurs on everything and collars.

:: Pompom Passion

2012-01-19T17:40:00.000+01:00

Source: eskimimiknits.com via Helle on Pinterest

Feeling the post christmas blues quite strong, I'm thinking of some pre spring decorations.
Beat the winter with a colorful pompom garland. Pictures of mine are coming soon.

:: Cheap readings

2012-01-11T14:16:00.000+01:00

Nachhaltig und billig. So mag ich's. Ausländische Zeitschriften wie Martha Stewarts Living, Country Living (Uk) und Vogue werden mit Zinio absolutey affordable.
Bei dem digitalen Zeitschriftenshop (es gibt auch Bücher) gibt es alle gängigen Magazines aus USA, UK, Frankreich und den Rest der Welt zu einem Bruchteil des Preises, die sie hier in Deutschland kosten. Man kann einzelne Hefte (auch frühere Ausgaben) oder Abos bestellen, die dann sofort digital auf dem eigenen Compi verfügbar sind.

Source: de.zinio.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: 2012 is the new 2011

2012-01-08T19:58:00.000+01:00

I hope not.
Last year many things went wrong and bad. I learnt to appreciate and treasure the small things like watching a robin, breakfasts in bed, cuddling with my cat, a chat with my favorite bakery boy, a smile from people as they admire my owl and bird brooches.
So no expectations and more adventure. There is only one 2012.

Source: kincavelkrosses.wordpress.com via Marta on Pinterest

:: Homeward bound

2011-12-27T12:00:00.001+01:00

I'm off to some family festivites in the south of Germany. As I am from down there, it will be like a adventure, I last visited my home areas about 4 years ago. Seems like ages.

Source: flickr.com via Anja on Pinterest

Die nächste Woche werde ich mich auf eine Reise in meine Kindheit begeben. Nach 4 Jahren kehre ich in den heimatlichen Süden zurück. Es fühlt sich an wie Lichtjahre.
Es gibt ein paar Familienfeste. Außerdem ein guter Grund das depremierende H. zu verlassen.

:: Christmas without snow

2011-12-25T18:50:00.000+01:00

Zu Weihnachten mal wieder kein Schnee? Macht nichts!
Wir basteln uns unsere eigenen Schneeflocken.
Diesmal Schneeflocken aus Papier für Fortgeschrittene.

These artisan paper snow flakes are not only for the holidays.
I will make them from old music sheets and tissue paper in pastel colors.

Source: re-foundobjects.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

:: Wir warten aufs Christkind

2011-12-24T16:24:00.002+01:00

:: CHRISTMAS ROUTINE

2011-12-24T14:45:00.001+01:00

6:00 Feed the cat
9:45 Listening to the radio (Deutschlandradiokultur) while still in bed
11:30 Taking a bath
12:00 Getting a bit sentimental while thinking about the past year
12:14 Being thankful to be loved
13:00 Last minute Hausarbeit
14:00 Turn up "Elvis sings Christmas Songs" very loud
14:38 Cuddling up with my two favourite red ones on the sofa
14:40 Opening a bottle of champagne

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Source: sweetpaul.typepad.com via Lila on Pinterest

:: My personal Jesus Fest

2011-12-23T11:01:00.001+01:00

It's Jesus birthday! So let's be jolly!
When I was little I felt a bit sorry for Jesus. He was just a small baby but already carried the whole world on his shoulders. So klein und schon so viel Verantwortung. Das arme Kerlchen.

Source: meadowtree.tumblr.com via Pia on Pinterest

Aber Themawechsel. Angesichts endloser Gänsenbratenparaden und Glühweinorgien, besinnen wir uns dieses Jahr auf den Ursprung. Wenigstens beim Weihnachtsmenü. So für ein real Christmas Dingdong, spice up the traditon.

Rotkohlsalat mit Granatapfelkernen
****
Gans a là Maroccain mit Zimt und Koriander
****
Sellerie mit Salzzitronen
****
Süßkartoffel vom Blech an Harissa und Maronen
****
Obstcarpaccio aus Ananas, Feigen und Datteln

Abends im Radio kommt dann "Gruß zur See", eine Sendung, die es schon seit 30 Jahren gibt. Dort können Angehörige von Seeleuten und Matrosen, die gerade auf See sind, Weihnachtswünsche an ihre Lieben senden.
Be prepared to keep your hankies ready. Schön sentimental, genauso wie das traditionelle "3 Nüsse für Aschenputtel" Gucken. Zum gefühlten 40. Mal. Auch schön "Das fliegende Klassenzimmer".
Und natürlich das unausweichliche "Weihnachten bei den Buddenbrocks".
Dieses Jahr führen wir auch ein neues Ritual ein:
ein Weihnachtsgedicht auswendig lernen. Ich habe Loriots "Ein Weihnachtsgedicht" gewählt.

My little oriental christmas dinner. For the ultimate Christmas Dingdong:

Red cabbage salad with pomegranate seeds
Roasted Gans a la Maroccain with cinnamon and koriander
Cerleriac with salty lemons
Roasted sweet potatoes with Harissa and chestnuts
Carpaccio from fresh pineapples, figs and dates

:: Let's share and shine

2011-12-21T17:22:00.000+01:00

We talked about gift wrapping now let's talk about the fine tuning.

Source: poppytalk.blogspot.com via Anja on Pinterest

The slightly bird obsessed Geninne created some divine gift tags.
Camilla Engman also has a treat for all these giving people.

Source: studiomorran.blogspot.com via Anja on Pinterest

I also like to add some greenery to adorn a gift. Das hier ist wohl Lebensbaum oder Wacholder. This year I will be adding Ilex, holly with red berries. It grows in my new garden here in H.

Source: room269.tumblr.com via Anja on Pinterest

A natural and easy centerpiece is this candle. Just wrap some greens around a big church candle. Here they use olive leaves.

Source: parisianevents.com via ve on Pinterest

This year I'm totally into pine cones, Tannenzapfen aller Art. Schon allein der Geruch! Herrlich. Mein größter Traum sind jedoch Kiefern, als Zweig, Baum oder Zapfen.

Source: designsponge.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Let's get it on

2011-12-14T19:20:00.002+01:00

Am Samstag ist es endlich soweit: Designachten, Hannovers schönste Designermesse für Selbstgemachtes öffnet ihre Türen. Und Eden ist mit dabei!
Wird auch Zeit. Nach monatelanger Fein-und Kleinarbeit müssen die Sachen jetzt unters Volk.

Last minute preparation for Designachten, Hannovers one and only handmade market.

:: Christmas wrapping nightmare

2011-12-14T10:29:00.002+01:00

Speaking of christmas wrapping, the scene form Love Actually is priceless.

PS: Check out the lovely Adventstürchen at Sister Mag today. Lots of beautiful wrapped presents.

:: What would be christmas without..

2011-12-12T14:32:00.001+01:00

Source: etsy.com via Anja on Pinterest

Jedes Jahr die Frage: Was essen wir zu Weihnachten?

Da bei uns die ganze Familie gut kochen kann, beginnt der Streit um den Herd sehr früh.

Dieses Jahr bleiben wir unter uns - ich und die 2 roten - und werden erst 28.12. ein großes Family Dinner haben. Inspiration dazu hol ich mir genau von dort, wo Weihnachten entstanden ist, also aus Israel. Und da ich das nicht so eng sehe, sagen wir mal Orient. Also jede Menge Zimt, Kardamom, Kreuzkümmel, eingelegte Salzzitronen und Chili. Aber natürlich mit Gans, comme il faut.

Muss noch mal meine Kochbücher wälzen.

I recommend: Küche der Medina.

:: Frisch aus dem Ofen

2011-12-11T16:46:00.001+01:00

3. Advent work out:
. working on my brooches checked
. laundry checked
. change bed linens checked
. baking Stollen checked
. working on christmas mailing checked
. clean dishes (dishwasher is broke) checked

Coming up:
. heavy Glühwein drinking
. watching Der Clou (The Sting)
. wrapping presents
. christmas decoration fine tuning
. cooking: Züricher Geschnetzeltes mit Rösti (second time this week)

The Stollen is part of my christmas mailing. Six more to make...

:: Christmas animal

2011-12-10T19:44:00.001+01:00

Source: sfgirlbybay.com via MrsCheese on Pinterest

Aus gegebenen Anlass präsentiere ich das offizielle Weihnachtstier 2011:
der Bär.
Arbeite gerade an einer neuen Grußkarte, natürlich mit einem Bär drauf.

Introducing the official christmas creature: the bear.
It will feature on my new christmas cards I`m working on,

3. Advent

2011-12-10T19:35:00.000+01:00

Source: bhldn.com via Anja on Pinterest

Only 2 weeks to go.

:: What would be christmas without...

2011-12-09T09:20:00.001+01:00

... the traditional christmas movie?

When I was a child I used to watch fairytale movie from the Czech Republic and DDR.
They were quite famous in the 60s and 70s. Maybe you came across Drei Nüsse für Aschenputtel - sure you have seen it. Ich hab es bestimmt über 15 x gesehen.
Vor zwei Jahren war sogar eine Ausstellung über den Film in der Kulturbrauerei in Berlin.

itv

This year I'm dying to see the Downton Abbey special which aires on ITV at the 25th. It's has gorgeous costumes, a great story and brilliant actors.
Also recommend the annual christmas specials at the BBC.

Also ganz oben auf meiner Liste: Buddy, der Weihnachtself und Betty und ihre Schwestern.

:: Geschenke für alle

2011-12-08T11:22:00.001+01:00

Fast alle. Die ersten 10 Leute, die mich auf dem Designachten Markt in Hannover am 17/18.Dezember besuchen, erhalten eine kleine Wundertüte mit ausgesuchten Wundern.
Das Zauberwort heißt: Parole handgemacht.
Kommt zahlreich und lasst euch überraschen.

Fancy a gift?
Visit me at Designachten and say Hohoho. Or just Hi!
Mention that you read my blog and say the secret words: handmade is the best.
Than you will receive a little surprise treat. Especially created by me. In german we
call it Wundertüte, a little bag with surprising fun stuff.

from here

:: What would be Christmas without a Martha?

2011-12-08T11:18:00.001+01:00

I can't imagine christmas without a bit of Martha inspiration.
Like the different shades of one color. Although this year I will go for tartan
and faux wood paper and dark purple and mustard ribbons.

Source: marthastewart.com via Anja on Pinterest

:: Zürich revisited

2011-12-06T17:00:00.001+01:00

I used to visit my aunt and family in Zürich quite often when I was living in the south of Germany. Now after living in Berlin and now moving to Hannover the distance grew even more. Als ich jetzt nach drei Jahren wieder nach Zürich zurückkehrte, hat es sich ein bisschen wie Heimkommen angefühlt.

It felt a bit like home coming, revisiting Zürich after three years. A lot has changed and this change, moving forward reminds me a bit of Berlin vibes. There are still traditions, like taking tea at the legendary Cafe Schober , am Cafe Schober kommt keiner vorbei or having a decent homemade Züricher Geschnetzeltes mit Röschti, kind of a gulash with chicken or veal in a creamy white wine sauce accompanying roasted potato cake. But there is also a vivid gallery scene, they have the Kunsthaus and a fantastic theater scene. Think Sybille Berg.

They have the Zürichsee and the mountains, James Joyce Society and Thomas Mann Archiv at ETH where you feel like a time traveler.

Thomas Mann hat der Uni Zürich sein Arbeitszimmer hinterlassen. Die haben es orginalgetreu wieder aufgebaut, so dass man meint, dass Thomas Mann mal gerade eben hinausgegangen ist, um sich einen Kaffee zu machen.

Achja, Zürich.

No visit to Zürich without spending some time at Globus, the one and only departmentstore.

Globus gehört zu Zürich wie Heidi zum Geissen-Peter. Wir haben uns dort 3 Stunden durchgearbeitet.So much to see and too many inspiration.

Changemaker: Du bist, was du tust. Ein genialer Claim. And so true. Absolutely love this shop.

Looks familiar? Mir sind fast die Augen ausgefallen: die Tierkissen von Areaware. Hab ich sonst nur im Internet bewundert. Und jetzt bei Changemaker. They sell ecoconscious and fairtraded stuff from around the world for the home. I spend one hour there and had a kind of Deja vue because I saw a lot things I only knew from the internet.

Beautiful En Soie

Im Niederdorf

A typical swiss accessoire

One of the many old fountains in the Altstadt

My favourite shop. Sehr klischeemäßig aber I love it. I would have moved in right away. Despite the whole shop is a swiss cliché. Heidi lives here, I'm sure.

Breakfast with Migros milk. They have awesome product designs. And I like the swiss brown cows.
We also had homemade marmelade and black currant jam.

Mimi, the Monstercat. One of three.

Altstadt von Zug. My aunt lives between Zug and Zürich.

:: Red

2011-12-05T13:35:00.001+01:00

Source: old-chum.com via Anja on Pinterest

An outstanding Lebenswerk, work of life.

:: Feeling red

2011-12-05T13:05:00.001+01:00

Christmas is the only season when I like red. So part of my unregelmäßiger Adventskalender I will post some pictures with red subjects.

find it here

This one I found via this astonishing, surprising and thouroughly inspiring website Old Chum.
I chose this one because I think native americans or people of the FIrst Nation look absolutely beautiful. And I stole a very similar Armreif from my mother she bought almost 25 years ago at Arizona. Also freakish: the text on the pic. Are native americans passionate VW drivers?

:: Musical crush

2011-12-05T12:46:00.001+01:00

Just returned from Zürich, visiting family and getting in the christmas feeling.
While being in the air, my favourite tv channel arte aired a Bryn Terfel special.
Will be also repeated on 9 Dec at 6:00 a.m.
Perfect music for my Morgengymnastik.

:: Gift wrapping

2011-12-02T13:00:00.000+01:00

On my weekly tour to my thrift store, my Haus und Hof Trödelladen, I came across this gehäkelte Deckchen, crocheted doily. A big basket full of them.
So this gift wrapping idea came to my mind as I like to recycle and to impress with artisan wrapped presents.
You can also use old hankies. Think Furoshiki.

This looks very elegant with the lavish ribbon and its muted beige colour.

:: Das erste Adventskalendertürchen

2011-12-01T10:24:00.000+01:00

Dies ist der erste Beitrag zu meinem ersten unregelmäßigen Adventskalender.
Die Ladies over at Sister Mag does it better. So don't forget to check.

:: Goodbye analogue

2011-11-30T20:54:00.001+01:00

Hello digital.
As a frugal electronic user - I abandoned my mobile for a Seniorenhandy,a mobile with big buttons and only few functions: telephone and SMS. No camera but a flashlight - I'm now introducing myself to Pinterest. I feel like an Analphabet, a illiterate.

:: Last Minute Christmas Shopping in Hannover

2011-11-30T09:59:00.001+01:00

Alle, die am Marktwochenende an meinen Stand kommen, erhalten eine kleine Überraschung. Parole handgemacht!
Looking forward to see a lot of people and to meet inspirational craftitas!

:: Weihnachtslektüre

2011-11-29T21:28:00.001+01:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More backen

:: Pictures make the real home

2011-11-28T18:38:00.001+01:00

I can live without a lot things when I move to a new flat. But it's hard to live without pictures.

And without books.

So last week I posted some pictures throughout the new walls.

My entrance hall

:: Berlin to see and not to see

2011-11-28T17:52:00.001+01:00

Last friday I went to a surprisingly trip to Berlin. I won a giftwrapping workshop at decor8 with Holly at Barcomi's.
Apart from meeting crafty and inspirational ladies the winners also received a giftcard from Anthropology which set up a pop up shop at Barcomi's to celebrate their shipping to Germany: Spend 75 Euro and you will get free shipping!
On friday and saturday I rushed across Berlin Mitte to do some essential shopping:
R.S.V.P. for cards and washi tape,
Mamecha for one of a kind Matcha Latte,
COS ,
Galerie Lafayette to check the new Miller Harris fragrance,
Dussmann for book and CD browsing.

Ps: What I don't like about Mitte are the tourists. And where are all the adults? Or is Mitte restricted to under 30s and Abiturklassen?

On saturday after a breakfast at Sarah Wiener at Hamburger Bahnhof with friends rush shopping at
Modulor,
Hasir, (Take away)
and at a lovely papeterie who specializes on recycling paper good at Oranienstrasse.
There I got stuck at a demo.
Just a normal day at Berlin.
Things I didn't have time to:
Helmholtzplatz shops like my favourites Victoria met Albert and,
Pomeranza and Goldhahn und Samson,
Veganz, a vegan supermarket,
KADEWE for the christmas window,
and a lovely small shop at Rykestrasse which sells scandinavian second hand Möbel and japanese zakka. Sorry, can't remember the name. It's near No Fire no Glory.

:: The Baking Session

2011-11-28T14:59:00.001+01:00

Just right on time for the traditional first advents teatime.

This time I made the Stollen with Quark, low fat cream cheese. It remains moisty and taste fresh with the candied oranges and lemons.

:: Heavy duty adventing

2011-11-27T14:19:00.001+01:00

Keine Adventsbackerei ohne das obligatorische Brigitte Plätzchen Heft. Growing up with Brigitte there's no better source for delicious and extraordinary Adventsplätzchen.
Today is the first of Advent, der 1. Advent - but no cookies! Somehow I forget.
So later on there I will be making Stollen, a german classic.

Last week I did some last minute decoration in my kitchen. It's the place we gather for everything: cooking, interneting, writing, crafting, reading and living. Although it's small we are Küchenhocker. Back in Berlin we had a big Wohnküche with a sofa and were seriously thinking of letting our living room. In Berlin hatten wir eine großartige Wohnküche, das berühmte Berliner Zimmer. Komplett mit Esstisch und Sofa. Und haben ernsthaft überlegt, ob wir nicht das Wohnzimmer und das Arbeitszimmer untervermieten sollen. Oder ein Bed and Breakfast aufmachen.

:: Adventscalendar from Sister Mag

2011-11-27T14:18:00.001+01:00

http://www.sister-mag.com/advent.html

Essential reading www.sister-mag.com
I met the lovely founder Toni at the crafting event with Holly Becker, Barcomi's and AnthropIogie I won over at decor8. BTW, Holly has some pictures on her blog.

Sister mag is a collaboration of two sisters and is much more than "not another digital mag":

"With SISTER we want to reach a group which has been neglected by traditional publishing houses and editorial departments: the lot of up-and-coming, well-educated, very active and independent women, which are enthusiastic for the digital world and want to be presented new and exciting content in a visually appealing way." (Sister Mag)

Can't wait to to read it. I also recommend their blog.

:: Aus meiner Werkstatt

2011-11-23T22:48:00.001+01:00

From my workshop. New bird brooches.

Now you can put a bird on everything.

:: Hardcore recycling

2011-11-23T21:56:00.001+01:00

How to Upcycle Tea Bag Notebooks from zaharamh on Vimeo.

:: Last minute christmas decoration

2011-11-22T19:43:00.001+01:00

I started sweating as I took a closer look at the calendar: am Sonntag ist 1. Advent. Irgendwie hab ich das verdrängt.

Meine Lieblings-Allzweck-Kreativ-Waffe: Papier. Neben Vintage Taschentücher. Or anything I find at a thriftstore. For decorations I like to recycle, reuse or made by hand.

Last year I did these paper snowflakes as well, only in a slightly different pattern. Here is a simple and very 50s approach.

Foto: philuko

:: Sleeping whales

2011-11-17T10:13:00.001+01:00

Yesterday I came across the European Nature Photography Awards. Watch here sleeping whales, a cuckoo stealing an egg and more breathtaking photos.
Der Förster Klaus Echle, a ranger from the south of Germany, did some awesome shots from a fox and badger. Was für Zufall!

Klaus Echles Foto "Graffiti" © GDT ENJ 2011 Klaus Echle

He even accompanies the fox during a year and he, the fox, adopted Echle. Kind of. He showed no shyness and allow Echle to make spectacular photos. No wonder he won a special prize.

:: Back to the roots

2011-11-17T09:50:00.001+01:00

After crafting the whole day, I'm not always in the mood to spend more time in the kitchen to prepare dinner.
So roots are the fuss free optionn. Easy, healthy and delicious.
Just get some roots, like celeriac, beetroots, Rüben, carrots. Peel and slice them, everything goes in the oven. Forget about them for ca. 40 min, than enjoy a leckeres, yummy, hot meal. Perfect day. Good night.

:: Art is art is art is art

2011-11-16T19:36:00.001+01:00

Vogel Brosche von mir

Rene Margritte malte am liebsten zu Hause. In der Küche. Das macht ihn richtig sympathisch.
Die Ausstellung gibt Gelegenheit, ihn besser zu verstehen. Leider haben seine Bilder ein ähnliches Schicksal wie Kandinsky oder Klee. Häufig findet man sie in Arztpraxen. Darum jetzt mal im Ernst. Auf nach Wien in die Albertina.

Portrait of René and Georgette Magritte, Botanical Garden in Paris, 1929

Rene Margritte liked to paint at home at his kitchen. I didn't know that about him and it instantly made me like him. Like him even more and understand him. There's a new exhibition at the Albertina in Vienna.

:: Christmas cards

2011-11-15T20:40:00.001+01:00

Plan early.

:: Can we already talk about christmas?

2011-11-15T13:05:00.001+01:00

Yes, please.

:: All about birds: Der Vogelsaal in Bamberg

2011-11-14T18:46:00.001+01:00

Der Vogelsaal - ein historisches Naturalienkabinett in Bamberg. Oder schöner Staunen in Bamberg.

Als bekennende Sammlerin und Jägerin faszinieren mich solche Anhäufungen von schönen Dingen. Den Saal kann man auch mieten. Hier ein Fest zu feiern...

Alle Fotos von Dr. Matthias Mäuser, Naturkunde Museum Bamberg

:: I can't believe it's Hannover

2011-11-14T18:41:00.001+01:00

Diesmal: Verflixt nochmal! Die ganze Blogwelt redet über Holly's Buch "Decorate" bzw. "Lust auf Wohnen". Aber hier in Hannover habe ich es noch nicht gesichtet
Wer ist jetzt bescheuert: ich oder Hannover?

:: Freak show or Messie-Deluxe

2011-11-13T19:54:00.001+01:00

Winterzeit ist Museumszeit.

In der Kunstsammlung NRW, Düsseldorf zeigt Zvi Goldstein " (...) Weit über 850 höchst unterschiedliche Objekte von der Antike bis zur Gegenwart aus verschiedensten Kulturen, die aus den enzyklopädischen Sammlungen des Israel Museums stammen," und die "(...) einen dichten, komplexen und hybriden Kosmos." bilden.

"In einem großen Raum und bei abgedunkelter Beleuchtung erscheint jedes der Textfragmente in einem Cluster von Objekten, die sich in jeweils unterschiedlicher Weise auf diese Texte beziehen und so alle Wände überziehen. Die große Fülle der Gegenstände und die assoziationsreiche Sprache der Texte erlauben unendlich viele Einzelbeobachtungen und Verknüpfungen, ohne dass ein vorgegebenes System festen Halt und eindeutige Bezüge liefert. Manches bietet sich in höchster Klarheit dar, anderes entgleitet an den Rändern dem Zugriff. Gemäß Goldsteins künstlerischer Leitlinie gehen „Phantasie und Theorie, Konzept und Ästhetik, Kontext und Ontologie, Biografie und Ideologie“ eine gleichberechtigte Einheit „zwischen kulturell zentralen und peripheren Existenzen“ ein.

Soweit die Kunstsammlung NRW in ihrem Pressetext dazu.

I can relate with that. Trust me.

Foto: Tal Rosen

Erinnert mich an die spektakulären Wunderkammern und Studiolos des 15.Jahrhundert.
In Bamberg wurde letztes Jahr das Naturalienkabinett aufwendig mit allen Schikanen restauriert. Das Ergebnis ist unglaublich. Morgen dazu mehr.

P.S: It's all about birds

Foto: Dr. Matthias Mäuser, Naturkunde Museum Bamberg

:: Geniestreich

2011-11-13T12:36:00.001+01:00

Faber Castell from eric yeo on Vimeo.

:: Spicker

2011-11-11T17:43:00.001+01:00

Die Frau von heute trägt Dachs. Kompromisslos und selbstbewusst.
Diesen freundlichen Gesellen gibt es demnächst zum Kuscheln.

Der Fuchs und die Vögel freuen sich schon auf den neuen Kollegen.

:: Heimaturlaub

2011-11-06T18:23:00.002+01:00

Berlin ist es immer wert. Auch wenn es nur zwei Tage sind. Berlin verhält sich wie eine richtige Weltstadt. Laut, kalt, dreckig und hungrig. Davon kann ich nicht genug bekommen.

Kollwitzmarkt am Samstag. It get's really crowdy with tourists, so come early.

Filzesel aus einem Fair Trade Project in Tadschekistan

Danach eine Marillensemmel in der Meierei

Was mich weiter in die neu eröffnete Markthalle 9 in der Eisenbahnstraße/Kreuzberg führt. Wie sagen es die Macher (die Leute von der Meierei haben auch ihre Finger drin - Gott sei Dank) so treffend auf der Website:
"Unser Verständnis einer Markthalle entspricht der Idee einer Stadt in der Stadt: ein Mikrokosmos von großer Vielfalt entsteht durch das unmittelbare Aufeinanderprallen unterschiedlichster Menschen und Waren."
Und es ist sogar noch schöner. Eine kleine, feine Wundertüte zum Sattgucken und Sattessen.

Cakespotting in der Markhalle 9

Cakespotting II

Tapas Stand at Markthalle 9

:: Novembertier

2011-11-02T18:21:00.000+01:00

Der Dachs ist mein Novembertier.

Auch bekannt unter dem Namen Grimbart, wurde er in den 70er fast ausgerottet. Seine unterirdischen Erdbauen wurden im Zuge einer flächenweiten Begasung von Rotfuchsbauen ebenso zerstört, so dass sein Bestand gefährlich niedrig sank. Mittlerweile hat er sich wieder erholt.

Der Dachs ist auch eines der seltenen Tiere, die ich noch nie in echt gesehen habe, weder im Zoo noch in der Natur.

Ich mag sein Fell und seine schwarzweiß Maserung. Hildegard von Bingen empfiehlt es übrigens gegen kalte Füße.

Filzdachs von Lybo Medallion von Juju Treasuers

:: Put an owl on it

2011-10-26T13:28:00.000+02:00

Anna Wiscombe.

:: The Organic Junkie I

2011-10-25T16:03:00.000+02:00

OMG, not another project.
Sorry, I can't concentrate on one thing. Especially when I am doing only one thing all day long like right now: stitching. Actually the best occupation for meditating and brainstorming. Stitching is like making a long mental To Do List.

But back to the topic: voilá the season's first Apfelstrudel. 100 % organic and vegan. Delicious with soy cream and a dust of cinnamon.
Curious how long the strudel will last...

Oh mein Gott, nicht schon wieder eine neue Reihe!

Sorry, ich habe eine ernsthafte multiple Persönlichkeitsstörung. Besonders morgens vor dem Aufstehen und bei der Steuererklärung.

Jedenfalls heute meinen ersten veganen, 100% biologischen Apfelstrudel gebacken. Ist aber schon immer vegan gewesen, weil man den Strudelteig mit Pflanzenöl macht. Sehr lecker dazu: Sojasahne mit einem Hauch von Zimt. Die Kruste wird schon locker-knusprig, wenn man sie mit geschmolzener Butter bestreicht.

:: Urban WIld Girls (3)

2011-10-24T11:30:00.000+02:00

I love a good red beard. Even more when it comes with a recycled notebook made out of beer (!!!). For the real men, für echte Kerle from Small Caps.

Small Caps

:: Instant love

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000+02:00

Mayo via Poppytalk

:: Can't believe it's Hannover

2011-10-23T16:05:00.001+02:00

It's hard to be an exberliner. Even harder when you have to live in Hannover instead.

Compared to Berlin, Hannover has no chance at all. There a no cozy coffee shops - okay, maybe two, there are no Spätis, no proper bookshop, no fabric shops ( there is one)... there is no variety. Even the Post Office closes for lunch.

So I was extremely surprised and happy to see the opening of a new deli near my house at Marienstrasse.

It's called Lecker Ladenlokal and they serve a deliciously All You Can Eat soup every day and one of the best soy cappuccinos I've tasted.

:: Weekend Reader

2011-10-23T15:50:00.001+02:00

Look what I found in my post box: Just right for a lazy sunday after hiking on saturday (We worked the Harz - we went wandern, hiking).

I'm addicted to Persephone books. The inside cover of every book comes in a different design being all fabric patterns from the 30s -60s. They also added a lovely bookmark with a design from Vanessa Bell, the very crafty sister of Virginia Woolf.

:: Urban Wild Girls II

2011-10-20T10:24:00.002+02:00

Check out some of the lovely vendors at the Hello Handmade Market at Hamburg that weekend. I wish could make it...

Janina Böhm

:: Urban Wild Girl

2011-10-20T10:19:00.000+02:00

Hurra, zum Selbermachen. Hurray, it's DIY.

I happen to have a woodburner from my Schwiegervater. That's something I always liked to experiment with. I've only done some screenprinting on woodplates which I only can recommend. So this project comes right on time.

via Designsponge

:: Sunshine of my life

2011-10-13T10:37:00.000+02:00

... even at 5:40 in the morning. I wish I would look so cute at this time of the day. Must be the fish.

:: Monday morning

2011-10-11T22:24:00.000+02:00

:: Feeling rustic

2011-10-09T15:42:00.002+02:00

Harvest Celebration at Gut Ippenburg

When summer is gone, my favourite season begins. Fall. Although many say now the year has come to an end, everybody slows down, nature begins to fade, I feel completely invigorated. It's harvest hightime, natures wears its most colourful fruits and leaves. It high time for gathering.

I'm especially drawn to rustic designs like Navajo, simple dishes, thick wool cardigans, outdoor forest walks, dimmed lights, romantic cowboyism, thinking of New Mexico and log fires. Hot cinnamon tea is served in a minute while enjoying rustic Etsy essentials for your personal urban rustic experience.

From The Workroom :: Parasol Vintage

Still With You :: Shapes&Colors

Vintage Social Club :: Rincon Road

:: Where the wild things really are

2011-10-09T14:39:00.004+02:00

Last weekend we went to a strictly organic farm, ein richtiger Bioland Bauernhof. The animals looked healthy, had more than enough room and were not a bit shy. Very clever was the mobile chicken housing, ein mobiler Hühnerstall. Now I'm dreaming of an organic grilled chicken stand a the local farmers market. You can only get conventional grilled chicken here, no free-range, only Wiener Wald Batteriehühner. I bet this would be the next big thing! If I am not turned to a vegan til than.
Because it's hard to look at those animals and know that they will be turned to sausages and steaks. Although they led a very good life, they will be killed. Not by nature, by man. We also visited the Schlachthof. As the farmer also makes meat products from his animals, he slaughters them on his premise. There is no thing like friendly killing. At least the animals will not have stressful transportation situations, panic attacks and they won't suffer. Hopefully.
After the visit, vegan is becoming more and more realistic for me.

:: Best british design 2011

2011-10-06T16:07:00.000+02:00

I already had my eyes on the british label St.Jude's and I am delighted with the jury's result: "Curiosity Shop" by Emily Sutton, who designed this winning design pattern exclusively for St. Jude's. Check out their other artists.

via St.Judes

:: colour inspiration

2011-10-05T18:30:00.002+02:00

via Comfort Creatures

via Ruffled

via Halfpintsalvage

via Orange is the sun

:: can't wait for this one

2011-10-05T12:25:00.000+02:00

Camilla Engman

Altough there's plenty of time not to think of next year and a lot to do in this year ( stitching and preparing for some christmas markets, baking bread, making a Hochbeet...) I am already a sucker for christmas cards and calendar 2012. And I thought I would be a bit fed up with owls!

:: Hallo Herbst

2011-10-03T19:22:00.004+02:00

Hello autumn.

Do it like the leaves. Dress in mustard.

Get the needles out. Although I can't knit I'm addicted to knitted sweater. Especially when they come in one of these adoring japanese pattern books.

:: hurra - es geht weiter!

2011-09-26T18:52:00.000+02:00

The show must go on. Please come back soon. There are massive news.

:: Growing green

2011-03-25T08:57:00.005+01:00

Longing for some fresh green. Available at Lilli Green.

:: Royal random

2011-02-24T09:42:00.006+01:00

The biggest royal wedding only a mere two months away it's time to get a little fetish about royal memorabilia.

As a proud owner of some coronation and wedding cups of the British Monarchy (there is only one real monarchy) I'm delighted to see some really stylish items.

Lovely color by Butter.

A very traditional commemoration tea towel in a very modern interpretation.

Towel by Claudia Pearson

:: A week of love (Part III): red shoes

2011-02-10T17:21:00.005+01:00

What is love? Looking at a collection of the nicest colours.

What is love? Getting up at 7:00 a.m. and queue two and a half hour for Berlinale tickets. And strolling afterwards through Mitte and finding the perfect red shoes for summer.

(both pics from f lip-flop.de )

:: A week of love (Part II): French heartbreaker

2011-02-09T17:54:00.001+01:00

:: A week of love (Part I): Loveletter to an analphabetical cat

2011-02-08T13:48:00.005+01:00

With every poop of my heart or The dark side of love

When it comes to love my cat, Fritzi is a real challenge.

I fell in love with him about three years ago at the Berlin Animal Shelter. Although I was told that he is ill and has been already given up by the vets at the shelter I took him home with me. He had me at the first sight.

From now on ups and downs became a daily routine. The vet bills grew steadily as our mutual love did. Despite ruining several carpets (poop and pee), vintage needlepoint chairs (scratching), two sofas (scratching) he is the ruler of my heart. A few months ago he needed to have emergency surgery. I cried my eyes of my head. No wet nose in my ear at 6:30 a.m.

He is doing fine now, has no pains. So obviously he is worth a luxury trip for two to London (including shopping spree) he is absolutely priceless. When he comes to sit with me on the sofa, rubbing his little head against me.

I love you forever, Fritzi Tatzelhuber.

:: A week of love

2011-02-07T19:29:00.006+01:00

Join me for a special celebration of love while we countdown to

Valentine's Day next monday.

A match installation by Pei San Ng

:: Back to the roots

2011-02-02T13:01:00.005+01:00

It never occured to me that one can make beet roots by yourself. And it's so easy and delicious.
Especially with goat cheese, roasted peppers and tofu.

Which brings me to that. Placemats by H&M.

:: The next big thing : Peter Pan Collar

2011-02-02T11:27:00.003+01:00

It's weird. Sometimes I got the feeling, that I got quite a sense of style. Rarely, but sometimes.
Last year I was looking for Peter Pan Collar adorned blouses or shirt and could find one. And today they're popping around.

From Girl and Bird

:: Saturday Night Movie

2011-01-29T12:14:00.000+01:00

:: Get posh magazines for free (almost)

2011-01-27T12:18:00.003+01:00

Are you a sucker for foreign magazines but can't find them and afford them?
Every month I'm hunting down the british "Country Living" at newsagents in Berlin. When I grab one I have to pay more the 10 Euro!
But now with Zinio, the world's largest online newsagent, you can save money and trees. They have all the mags from around the world for just less half the price from the original.

Sign up for a free trial. I just treated myself to 3 free issues of "Marieclaire".

:: new bloom

2011-01-25T15:30:00.005+01:00

Shades of grey still dominating Berlin. To brighten up a little here some blooming pictures and ideas i came across in the net.

This is a clever and enviromental idea to perfume your room. Just attach orange or lemon rind on a wire and hang on your radiator.

Orange rind scent diffuser by Tour de Fork (via Designsponge)

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Flowers that won't fade (by Tiny Happy)

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Get yourself a little table pet (by Miss Bumbles)

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Cuddling up with a white spring cardigan ( by Studio150)

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Scare winter weather away with this stunning cape (by The greedy seagull)

:: Danger ahead :: Heavy Hibernation

2011-01-05T22:02:00.002+01:00

Due to some heavy hibernation there will be low traffic. But I'm planning to do a post about Berlin-Mitte.
About the tourist grammed (and abused) streets, of hip and traditional shops and secret places (are there any left?)

:: 24

2010-12-24T13:02:00.003+01:00

The tree is standing, the presents are packed, the goose is roasting, the champagne is cooling, the heart is beating.

Merry christmas to you all.

:: 23

2010-12-23T11:26:00.003+01:00

The Homemade Supermarket at the Markthalle was a great success. Side by side with a lot of plants from the community garden Prinzessinengarten who are taking a little break from the cold winter until spring cheerful visitors and buyers strolled through this atmospheric setting.

This is my new brooch collection. As I finished them at the last second, I hadn't time to think about a proper presentation. So my very large postcard collection of women artists came in handy.

:: 17 and a half of the 18, please

2010-12-17T21:07:00.004+01:00

While time flies, and I'm in high speed preparation time for the lovely Handmade Supermarket this weekend, have a cup of coffee.
Recommendation for a hot cuppa is The Barn

:: 16

2010-12-15T23:39:00.004+01:00

One of my favourite departmentstore, Breuninger, has a nice "behind the scene" film about their christmas decoration. Click here.
(Please click on the PLAY sign on the right bottom of the page)

Meanwhile my boss is getting himself in some christmas mood...and keeps me busy.

:: 14

2010-12-14T11:26:00.004+01:00

Today, at 11:00 a.m. sharp, I finished my new holiday collection: opulent brooches to adorn a low key and simple outfit. As you can see in the picture, birds are still strong with me. You can see more of them this weekend at the Handmade Supermarket in Berlin-Kreuzberg.
It'll take place at Eisenbahnhalle, an old covered market. Also home this winter for the plants of the community garden Prinzessinnengarten. So a lot of greens inside while it's white on the outside. We have some snow in Berlin. Hurra.

Delicious foods, Glühwein and homemade cakes are also served. Join me and a lot of other designers this weekend to get yourself in the christmas mood (last minute shopping inclusive).

:: 13

2010-12-12T16:18:00.006+01:00

Just the perfect place to read a favorite book or write a love letter.
Sorry, I don't know the source of the pic.

:: 10 + 11 + 12

2010-12-11T13:19:00.000+01:00

:: 9

2010-12-09T12:18:00.003+01:00

Heavy snow turns Berlin into some magic place. So what else can you do than sitting in a cosy room and drinking some hot tea? Make some snow candy.

1 cup real maple syrup

1/4 cup salted butter

a bowl of fresh snow

1. Heat the syrup and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring to avoid a boil over.

2. The mixture is ready 6 to 7 minutes after it boils (220 to 234 degrees on a candy thermometer). It should stiffen when dripped onto a plate.

3. Remove from heat and cool for 2 minutes before pouring over the snow. It cools so quickly that you can taste it right away.

Recipe from Wondertime
Pic from Motherearthnews

:: 8

2010-12-08T10:34:00.005+01:00

Treat yourself to some decent indie design shopping. This saturday and sunday at the HolyShit in Berlin.
This little adorable guy is by Nikoki, the most artful maker of soft toys for the heart. They are born to love you, baby!

:: 7

2010-12-07T15:19:00.003+01:00

This is my letter press christmas card for special friends.

From Papered Together

:: 6b

2010-12-06T15:25:00.003+01:00

Dinner for tonight.