Back to School

PLAY AND PRETEND.
A BACK TO SCHOOL DICK AND JANE CELEBRATION.

I get such a nostalgic thrill for this time of year. The pristine perfectness, of just out-of the-box school supplies. Oh, how I cherished the rainbow kaleidoscope of crayola wonder that vibrates with possibilities, from a $2 box of pencil crayons, sharpened to pinpoint precision. Magic in a box, really, inspiring lively creations to take form on a canvas of crisp white sheets of paper piled high and untouched. Back to School suggests new beginnings–an empty slate to wonder, learn, play, grow, imagine and create. Wee ones (and their moms) are often a mixed tableau of emotions as Fall approaches and we must face, yet again leaving the comfort of our summer nest. It is for that kiss of apprehension and the beautiful babes that are our future, that I was inspired "Dick and Jane" style, to celebrate little friendships and our ABC's. Old school sweet treats, books, paints, puppets and crafts had happy little faces playing in perfect school form. "Come, Come Jane. It's time for school" said Dick. And off they go to school... (scroll down for a sweet little movie of our celebration). 

Scallywags and Landlubbers

Scallywags, landlubbers and little scurvy toothsome tots, went on a high-sea adventure in search of the infamous booty treasure of long ago. Well, it's how the story began...Captain Scallywag Sean turned 5 amongst all his shipmates, and I was bestowed an honorary position aboard the LandLubber Express. Finding my sea legs and a pirate swagger inspired me to help design an event worthy of the best of the buccaneers.

Mister Rabbit

And with Spring, a newness unfolds...

It is true, I am a child at heart and my love for Easter has only grown along with me, over the years. "Sir Rabbit", has always held more magic for me, than jolly old Saint Nick. For along with Mister Long Ears, follows the vibrations of Spring time–the promise of new beginnings. I am revitalized from my winter slumber, by the wonder of Mother Nature and her effortless, untamed beauty. Within the garden, shapes start to form, sweet wafts of nectar perfume the air, and sunlight kisses every corner, unveiling new truths, beckoning us to play barefoot and carefree and sing with the baby robins that nest outside my kitchen window. For me, there is an innocence and nostalgic joy in Easter. Little legs running through the tumbleweeds in search of the elusive egg- the thrill of the hunt, in Sunday's finery, only to be rewarded by the sweet comfort of chocolate melting on tiny, warm fingertips, before even hitting eager lips. It is why, in a reverie of chocolatey sweet treat bliss, the Farmhouse celebrated Mister Rabbit- the magical, mythical long-eared hero, who awakens the child in all of us. Happy Easter.

Below is a little peek into our Sweet Treat World. Turn up your bunny Ears for optimal viewing.

Send in the Clowns.

SEND IN THE CLOWNS. With my love for child-like delights and celebrations, it is no doubt I would finally have my Circus moment. January can often-times be cloaked under the heavy winter veil of hibernation and restlessness. What better time, while we wait for Spring, to spark laughter and fun in a rainbow kaleidoscope of eye candy and sweet treats where the sweet trill of a carnival melody beckons a greeting? The burgeoning pink clouds of candy floss, the distant familiar hum of popcorn popping, doughnuts piled high to a tippy-top peak, animated bowls of clown paraphanelia to transport the most reluctant of guests to be gaily garbed, jolly balloons, bouncy balls and the distinctive croon of a melodic kazoo. All this and much more, was the Farmhouse Circus. All I can say is a room full of little round red noses and oversized cheer, brought optimism, joy and life to a bleak winter afternoon. Happy Birthday to my two sweet little clowns. Your Ringmaster loves you. 

Step Right Up! and view more of this delightfully festive celebration in the sweet movie below.