Monday, September 1, 2008

(photo by sara farrar)

here is my september article for tastebud. i am bummed because they did not use the correct photo of the flowers in the magazine! oh well....
Market Fresh
Ahh, September: back to school, the pace of life starts to slow and the weather cools (at least all of these happen in theory). To celebrate this change in seasons, create a fun and colorful occasion with cool treats, perfect for gathering with old friends or new families met at school.
This affair starts with a brightly colored table. Create a container for the centerpiece out of a recycled can and playful paper (directions follow). I chose a paper that accents the vivid flowers gathered at the Overland Park farmer’s market. We know that farmer’s markets are a great venue to buy locally grown fruits and vegetables but they are also terrific for finding fresh flowers. It’s always exciting to see what new varieties are being grown and which mid-west classics are available in their vibrant hues. Some perennial favorites are the velvety cockscomb, electric fuchsia and red gomphrena, blue ageratum, bells of Ireland, amaranthus, blue bedder sage, queen anne’s lace and hydrangea. This arrangement includes happy and festive zinnias, cosmos, snapdragons, sunflowers and hosta leaves. The best part is that this bouquet only cost $6.00! If you love flowers and gardens make a special trip to a local flower farm. Whittaker Flower Farm in Olathe has 6 acres of flowers, woodlands and a serene pond. Visit in the summer to cut your own bouquets and into the fall for the pumpkin patch.
To keep things easy and bright serve several flavors of homemade ice cream to guests in classic latte bowls from Anthropologie. These versatile bowls come in a rainbow of colors and will quickly become a household favorite. Offer plenty of toppings from fresh berries and nuts to crushed cookies and sprinkles. If making ice cream doesn’t fit into the schedule, head to Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard and choose from any of their flavors of fresh custard to go.
Enjoy the last of summer’s heat with this simple and sweet soiree!

D.I.Y. Container
Clean an empty can.
Cut a piece of paper that is the height of the can and long enough to wrap around with a 1” overlap.
Use a paint brush to spread mod pod (found at craft stores) onto the can and secure the paper.
To create a more water-resistant vase, paint on 2-3 coats of the mod pod over the paper, allowing it to dry between layers.
Fill with water, give the flowers a fresh cut and enjoy!
After the flowers are gone use this on a desk to hold pens, pencils and other supplies!
UPDATE! THE WHITAKER FLOWER FARM IS NO LONGER IN BUSINESS! SORRY FOR ANY CONFUSION AND PLEASE PASS THIS ALONG TO ANYONE WHO MIGHT BE THINKING OF VISITING!

Overland Park Farmer’s Market
79th & Marty
Wed.7:30-sellout
Sat. 6:30-sellout

Foo’s Frozen Custard
In Leawood
Ranchmart Shopping Center
3832 W. 95th
913.383.3667
In Brookside
6235 Brookside Plaza
816.523.2520

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About Me

my name is heather and i have three crazy, creative, funny, winey, smart, loving and sweet children (henry, charlie and lucy). we love exploring around town and playing at home. i love creating whether it is with fresh flowers, fabrics, papers or whatever inspires me on a particular day.