Overcoming Functional Fixedness Workshop

Unleash your creativity and explore how overcoming functional fixedness can help you bring new life to objects that no longer serve their original purpose. Bring an old toy or item that you’d like to upcycle into something new and functional. You’ll want to take notes for this one, so bring a notepad and pen!

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1 min read
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Peach preserves: easy to make and a pleasure to eat

Peach Bliss by Anna Herman Gorge though you may, there are only so many peaches and cherries you can eat this summer, and some fruits are just better when they aren’t fresh: I’ve rarely had an apricot on the East Coast that was worth eating when I bought it. But sweet and tart jam made

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3 mins read
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Handmade journals make a great gift for yourself or others

Dear Diary  by Anna Herman Handcrafting a book to jot down favorite quotes or sketch your garden plans is an hour or two of work well spent. With a bit of planning and practice, you can transform scraps and hand-me-downs into practical or fantastical journals, albums or printed books. These make great presents and gifts,

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3 mins read

Do-it-yourself home spa pampering

Soak it In A trip to the spa can be the pinnacle of relaxation, but you don’t always need to outsource your pampering. It’s easy to make your own bath scrubs and soaks, choosing the scents that appeal to your sense of inner peace. Ingredients are widely available—even at some chain drug stores or your

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1 min read
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A needle and thread are simple tools with big impacts

Mend Your Ways by Anna Herman Buttons pop off. Sweaters snag. Jeans wear out. So, unless tattered clothes are your fashion preference, resolve to get to know a needle and thread.  (Way) back when I was in junior high school, one was required to take sewing, home-ec and shop classes. At the time, it seemed

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2 mins read
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Homesteading: Candlemaking 101

Sweet smells and subtle light will get you through winter’s dark nights by Anna Herman When I was seven, I had a revelation. I could have brownies on demand if I made them myself. Learning this simple skill gave me agency over my appetites and fueled a lifelong interest in figuring out how to make

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4 mins read