Watch boxes and winders

Watch winders are not your typical jewelry storage, but they are an important piece of the puzzle. Any watch collector — or even those with one or two timepieces — knows the importance of proper storage and regular winding. 

Watch chests

Display your favorite timepieces in one of these solid wood chests from American Chest. Velvety suede lines the inside and matching pillows are ready to have watches wrapped around them for safe keeping.  Separate cubbies help protect pieces from scratches and dust. The lid features a sleek glass panel that keeps contents visible but completely protected. Available in two sizes, you can chose from the regular design that fits up to six watches or the larger design which fits up to 10 watches and includes a bottom drawer for accessories.

Watch winders



If you’re more of an enthusiast, watch winders are a must. This Double Watch Winder, also from American Chest, is crafted from solid American cherry wood. This winder can contain up to two watches at a time. Complete with four programs, this watch winder features nylon gears, a mabuchi motor and intermittent programming sequences. This beautiful dresser top piece also features the slim glass panel in the lid, perfect for keeping contents visible and well protected.

Plus, all of American Chest’s elegant products are made in the United States.

Find these products and more like them at StacksandStacks.com.

How to make a compost bin with a simple plastic tote

“Compost is an organic matter that has been decomposed and recycled as a fertilizer or soil amendment.”

Thanks, Wiki. But how do you make a compost bin? A quick Pinterest search can lead to premature exhaustion and overwhelming apathy. Do not fret, you do not need to go all out to create a simple home compost bin. Thankfully, there is an easy and inexpensive way.

I’m always trying to find new, unique ways to use those plastic totes that line my basement walls. As I watched the slowly changing leaves this weekend, it hit me: compost bin.

Here is a simple step by step process on how to make a compost bin:

Take your pick

Find a plastic bin fit for the job. Whether you have on laying around or must purchase one, make sure it is tall. At least two feet. And it must have a very secure, latching lid to keep our any curious critters.

Once you have a bin picked out, grab a drill or a hammer and nail to create air holes. Put at least eight hols in the bottom of the bin and in the lid. This will allow for proper air circulation and therefore even composting.

Fill it up

Back to those leaves. If you have them, collect some dry leaves from the yard and fill a quarter of the  bin with them. You can also use newspaper for this, but I really recommend the dry leaves for a more pure compost.

Next is dirt. You can buy some for a hardware store or just dig it out of the ground at home. Either way, fill the bin with dirt until it is half full.

Scraps

Next, just add you food waste.  Every time you add waste to the bin, make sure to stir it gently with a shovel or hand spade. Then spray it lightly with water until it is moist — you do not want to make it too wet. Be gentle!

Finally, just place the DIY compost bin somewhere outside in the shade so it doesn’t dry out. Come spring, you will have the best fertilizer for your gardens. And the cycle continues!

Find products for this project and more at StacksandStacks.com.

 

 

 

Pumpkin spice and everything nice

The first day of fall hasn’t even hit yet, but I’m seeing pumpkin spice latte-everything. Everywhere. 

And while I’m tempted to wrap my hands around the warm, white cup you can pick up for a couple (or more) dollars at the “star” coffee chain, I resist. It’s super easy to make your own version of this beloved fall treat at home. Whether you prefer some creamer in your coffee or syrup so you can make the real thing, it’s a quick process. Plus, the ingredients are most likely already in your cabinet at home — or you can grab them for the same amount you’d spend on one latte at the cafe.

Pumpkin spice coffee creamer

2 cups milk (soy, almond, rice, dairy — whichever you prefer)
2 tbs pumpkin puree
4 dates, skinned
1 tbs maple syrup (the real stuff)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp each nutmeg, clove and ginger
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 tbs coconut oil

Simply mix all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and combine!

Tip: Store it in a glass bottle and it will keep for weeks.

Pumpkin spice syrup

3/4 cup water
3/4 cup brown sugar (not packed!)
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
3 dashes clove

mug-2Combine sugar and water over medium heat. Once the sugar dissolves, add the remaining ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes, then strain through a mesh strainer. Store this in a glass bottle as well and it will last weeks. Always shake before using because it will separate in the fridge.

mug-1Tip: And, of course, it’s the not the true experience unless you have the white travel mug. I opt for a reusable one. The double wall insulation keeps your drink — spiced or not — hotter for longer. The silicone lid seals tightly and the whole thing can be thrown in the dishwasher.

Spice pumpkin pie filling

Because that’s where it all started, right?

3 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp cinnamon
3/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1.2 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp clove
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree

Beat eggs lightly and add in milk, both sugars, salt and spices. Once combined, add pumpkin and stir in until all ingredients are combined. Pour into your favorite pie crust (homemade or store bought) and bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes or until a knife removes cleanly.

Tip: Want that golden crust? Glass pie pans retain heat better than ceramic or metal and therefore allow better browning.

Find these tips and more at OrganizeIt.com.