tussie mussie, not fussy

Part of my catching up over the last few days has been preparation for a children's workshop tomorrow. We are making old-fashioned tussie mussie bouquets at the Historical Society. Andy is the new president there and when he started asking about who might help him with a children's workshop, I thought I'd better volunteer. That's my committee at the garden club so it's two classes in one day for both organizations and a  nice partnership. History+ flowers + children + crafts + community.

Mr. President takes his job seriously and he quizzed me about the historical significance of my proposed project. Well, sir, people used to make and wear these so that when they encountered an unbearable odor, they could bury their nose into the little fragrant bouquet and thus be spared the unpleasantries of the street. Okay then. Approved. But wait, there's more! We are taking it further into the historical realm of sweetness and love in honor of Valentine's Day, making Victorian cones with doilies, adding in herbs for the language of flowers.

Just made this practice model and although it's probably too small, it is darling, don't you think? Rosemary (remembrance) and sage (esteem) stems were available at the grocery along with carnations and sweetheart roses. Baby's breath too. A little "nosegay" (get the meaning of that now) bundle of these wrapped with a green chenille stem slips right into the cone. That is easily made from a 6 inch round doily cut into quarters. Glue one quarter of the cut doily into the corner of a cardstock sheet. Cut that out, leaving a little cardstock showing across the top and trim that with pinkers. Roll it into the cone shape and glue shut with tacky glue. Punch 2 holes toward the back and use a gold sparkle stem to make a hanger. Add a ribbon bow and a hang tag for a valentine message. Ta-da.

Hope they have fun with this. Well, probably for about 15 minutes anyway.

So, what's for dinner, Mr. President?

Did I mention he cooks?

Comments

[terri ventura]

okay so I just looked at the picture and i want one...

[Troy Louise]

Charlotte: What a fun history lesson. Thank you, I love your mussy tussy & so should the children. Also, I'm a bit late with best wishes to Erin & John Paul. What a romantic proposal! Have a wonderful weekend.

Troy Louise

[suzi finer]

prettiest tussy mussy I've seen....
love.

[Lilli]

Oh, it certainly IS absolutely darling!! Have fun tomorrow :)

[kathy]

I'm sure they'll be thrilled with their creation tomorrow...a tussie mussy in Feb. will do wonders for cabin fever. Of course, as you said that will eat up about 15 min. I suggest playing calm classical music in the background try to tune into all the calming techniques for all the senses ha ha...for your sake too! The tradition in my church has always been burning incense. Lets face it people were a bit smelly and clothes couldn't be popped in the washer way back. I always burn incense throughout the winter it's aroma therapy. Isn't it amazing how it's nature that gives us the most pleasure? Have fun tomorrow.
I LOVE INA too!
Best,
Kathy

[*Heidi*]

...nosegay...got it...now I know...which I didn't before your post! ...nice historical lesson, you've earned the food, whatever the prez cooked for you....

*heidi*

[Carolee]

Hi Charlotte ~ I've just discovered your blog via a couple of my links, and have to say how very much I'm enjoying it! Wonderful info about tussie mussies (never knew that) and I just adored the ballet post. :)

I'm off to add your blog to my links now....Happy creating!

~ Carolee

[Daughter Maggie]

They are super cute!! I hope it was fun! You're so good at those classes!

[Lena]

This turned out so pretty, Charlotte.
I've always enjoyed "the language of flowers".

[Faux Wood Blinds Gal]

What a great craft for a kids birthday party coming up. Thanks for sharing:-)

[The Glitter Fairy]

Suh-weeeeeeet! Just darling and what a perfect project for the children...part history, part crafts and totally fun!
xoxo
Laurie