Our Garden Gang Presents...

From a Sell to a Cell...

Color, Curtains and Screens

Color is so important.  If my new um... landlord ...allows me,  I intend to paint the 3 main walls a lovely neutral shade that won’t clash with my new clothing line, “Mirtha Stuwort Pumpkin Orange Jumpsuits!”  Don’t you think orange is such a warm, cozy color?  I might have to resort to a simple black and white ensemble but I hope not – I don’t look my best in stripes!   

Curtains are a must.  I won’t have to worry about windows in my new abode – but my fourth wall will definitely need some kind of covering.  Being a frugal woman, I am planning on using some of the sheets from my own “Mirtha’s Linens Line” and fashioning my draperies from them.  Don't forget elegant drapery tie-back hardware!

You can also use coordinating linens on the cot or bunk too.  You won’t need much – these bunks don’t take up too much room!  I think I will be going for the “Zen” look, you know, uncomplicated and simple (like me!)  

I will have an en suite powder room area so I will need to screen off that area.  After all we decorating divas do need our privacy don’t we?  Simple screens can be made from old closet doors, French doors or even artists’ stretcher frames that are covered with a perky print fabric.  Although I doubt I will have access to a staple gun around there. Maybe a glue gun…er…no.  I better not say gun or I will get in trouble!  Sigh…what is a domestic goddess to do?

Scents Make Sense!

And seeing that I will be living in such close quarters with the other…er…tenants, I think some potpourri is in order.  A good strong one I think!  Here’s a great recipe for Rose Potpourri!

Spread fresh rose petals in a thin layer on a cookie sheet. Store the sheet in cool, dry place for several days, making sure it’s away from direct sunlight. When the petals are crisp and brittle and crumble easily, pour them in a container that has a tight fitting lid. Add five drops of rose oil and five drops of *glycerin. Close and gently shake for a few seconds. Do this every day for 14 days. On the 15th day, add one tablespoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Shake one last time and then enjoy!!

*You can find glycerin in the cosmetics aisles or ask the pharmacist. 

Quick Meals for Large Groups

My new landlord, Mr. Warden, is allowing me to furnish the cafeteria here with some of my favorite recipes.  Here’s a lovely one to feed several hundred at a time.  Just times the ingredients by 100 and you’re all set.  Hey maybe I can lend a hand in the kitchen!  "Meat Loaf of the Week" anyone? 

Mirtha’s Monster Meat Loaf 

Loaf:

• 2 lbs. hamburger
• 1/2 c. oatmeal
• 1/4 c. onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp. fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp. prepared mustard
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 1/2 c. milk

Sauce:

• 3 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1/4 c. ketchup
• 1 tsp. mustard
• 1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Mix all loaf ingredients; press into 9 x 5 x 3 inch bread pan. Spread on sauce. Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees. Let stand before serving.

Cleanliness Counts

Seeing that the shower facilities leave a lot to be desired, I am stockpiling my own special soap.  There will be enough to last several years if needed.  (I hope not!) In fact, the last case is going on the truck as I write this!  Why don’t you try this simple recipe for your own homemade soap? 

Materials:

• Bars of natural fragrance or color free soap

• Essential oils of your choice

• Lavender, rose and jasmine work well)
  ·  Food coloring
  ·  Oats
  ·  Vitamin E Oil (Optional)
  ·  Almond Oil 

Instructions:

1. Grate soap in a blender or food processor.

2. Boil a pot of water and put a glass bowl over the pot, (like a double boiler.)

3. Add some almond oil into the bowl.

4. Add the soap into the bowl.

5. Take the water from the pot and add it into the bowl until soap changes into paste.

6. Add oils, color, and vitamin E as desired.

7. Let cool in molds of your choice. You can use anything for a mold - ice cube trays, cookie cutters or your own hand.   

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