Circa Home Living

A Note from Noel and Verge

2012-01-04T15:16:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends ~
My, my how quickly time flies! Where did the first half of January disappear to? With the Holiday Season officially behind us we find ourselves once again enjoying the start of a brand new year full of optimism, hope and promise! We were thrilled to hear from so many of you last year via our blog and facebook page! With so many questions and comments we took the time to think about how to enhance our social media connection with you this year.

What better way than by providing practical, useful and inspiring content that covers topics that enhance our homes and lives while complimenting your interest in Circa Home Living. We continue to believe its important to reinforce our connection as friends by sharing interests, stories, advice, opinions, information, inspiration, encouragement and a laugh or light hearted moment as needed.

As you might know, we are both passionate about 19th century styled homes and period wares, and as you might expect it takes time to realize the potential of any home. Whether it's lighting, mouldings, furniture, floor treatments or finding the perfect coverlet, choices and decisions are at every turn. A home is always a 'work in progress', an ongoing investment of time, patience and money. We might not have all the answers but we have lots we want to share with you this year and hope that Circa Home Living provides the inspiration you are looking for!

Here's to a Happy, Healthy 2012!

Ever your friends,
Noel and Verge (Elphie too!)

P.S. Be sure to "like" our page on facebook by visiting here.

Holiday Open House at the Antique Exchange

2011-11-21T06:34:00.000-05:00

As the holiday season approaches we're excited to share new products and one-of-a-kind treasures at the Nobleboro Antique Exchange Holiday Open House. Bring your senses alive as you step into the best of "Christmas in Maine" and treat yourself to homespun holiday decorations, aromatic potpourris, yummy treats and the joyous sounds of the season!

Start a new tradition at the Antique Exchange . . . where the true meaning of Christmas is being restored.

Be sure to stop by and check out the festive atmosphere on Route 1 in Nobleboro, ME.

Fri., Nov. 25th, 10-5

Sat., Nov. 26th, 10-5

Sun., Nov. 27th, 10-5

Happy Holidays to you & yours - Noel & Verge

A Sampling of New Items to Share

2011-10-28T23:18:00.000-04:00

Every year at this time we're bursting at the seams with new products and can't wait to share them with you! We give careful attention to each and every item in our 48 page catalog and make every effort to offer you inspirational pieces, and in many cases, exclusive items found only through Circa Home Living. We're proud to be able to work with many talented artisans that share in our vision - a commitment to quality products Made right here in the Good 'Ole USA! We hope you'll find to your liking a small sampling of some of our NEW products shown below. Enjoy!

Ever your Friends ~ Noel, Verge and Elphie

Garlic and Cheese Dishes

Our Pewter Garlic Holder and whimsical Mouse Covered Cheese Dish are fun, great for entertaining and certain conversation pieces! Made of lead-free polished Pewter, these make great gifts for the cheese aficionado and garlic lover in your life!

United We Stand
Table Square

This beautiful Table Square is patterned after a circa 1800's original. The corner block reads: United We Stand/Divided We Fall. Reversible with fringed edge. Available in Red or Navy, both with Linen background. 32" Square.

Gourd Birdhouses
and Bee Skeps
For the backyard and garden we couldn't pass these by. Bring any outdoor setting to life (literally) with an added touch of whimsy and charm. Gourd Birdhouses come in assorted shapes and sizes with drainage holes and jute hanger. Bee skeps are made of lightweight cement composite material, can be used indoor or out and come in three sizes perfect for collecting.

Wood Bin
This attractively aged and sized Wood Bin holds an ample supply of wood and provides storage for all those fireplace accessories and decorative touches to boot. A great organizer of all things around the fireplace or woodstove. Aged Mustard over Black. 23"w by 42"h by 16"d. (8"d at top.)

Tin Floor Lamp
Elphie truly admires this new Tin Floor Lamp! Makes a statement in any room. Features a weighted cone base. 4 candelabra base sockets are rated for up to 40 watts per socket. Primitive Aged Finish. 57" high with a 12" diameter base.

For more - visit our

2012 Circa Home Living Online Catalog.
<~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

To request a copy of our print catalog please click here.

From Printing Press to your Mailbox

2011-10-23T12:22:00.001-04:00

Introducing....

the 2012 Circa Home Living Catalog

your pathway to the American Country Home

We are thrilled to present a selection of new offerings that are sure to please.

Our excursions this past year were filled with exciting discoveries of new artisans and innovative hand-made American products, many of which are exclusive to our catalog. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and browse our online offerings or request a printed copy of our catalog with our new handy dandy catalog request form here. Of course you can always call us toll free at 888-887-1820 with your mailing address if you prefer.

Adorning this year's cover is a beautiful watercolor image painted by our friend Karen Hillard Good.
This framed watercolor print is available in our new catalog.

Check our website in the coming weeks for more spectacular watercolor framed originals by Karen.

Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Catalog

2011-10-16T21:05:00.000-04:00

In anticipation of the 2012 Circa Home Living Catalog debut we thought we'd give you some insight and a behind the scenes look at what it takes to put it all together.

Planning for our yearly catalog is an important and ongoing process. From the moment our catalog is printed and shipped each October we take a short pause and then start anew working on ideas for next year.

Cropped & Elphie approved
for the new catalog

Setting up the shot.

We begin in January researching and scouting the country for new products made by American artisans with our customers in mind. As sample products are received they are photographed using our period 1800's home as the backdrop - giving our customers a feel for how the products can be used in their own homes. We then measure all products, write short descriptions for each along with any pertinent information that we feel may be useful for our customers. When all of this work is complete we then move to the design and layout phase where we pay careful attention to grouping like items together so that they can be easily located in the catalog.

Printing is then done locally where we are hands on in the process every step of the way to ensure that the colors printed are as accurate as possible. After a few rounds of careful proofing (Elphie gets finally say with her 'two paws up' approval) our catalog is mailed direct to tens of thousands of customers here in the USA, Canada and as far away as Tasmania!

Color proofing at our local print shop.

It's a long process with an extraordinary amount of time given to the details but ultimately what makes our catalog debut such a rewarding and special time of the year here at Circa Home Living.

For our existing Circa friends, check your mailbox over the next few weeks for the new 2012 Circa Home Living catalog - filled to the brim with exciting new products. If you're not currently on our mailing list and would like to request a catalog fill out our handy dandy new catalog request form here or call toll free at 888-887-1820 with your mailing address. We look forward to hearing from you!

Ever your friends - Noel & Verge

Attention ~ Old World Pewter Collectors !

2011-07-09T12:18:00.001-04:00

We've recently acquired a wonderful, hard-to-come-by selection of pewter plates, candlestick holders, pitchers, trays, peppermills, canisters, measures and more ~ all from the talented folks at Old World Pewter.

We invite you to browse our newest offerings by clicking here or by visiting our website and clicking on the pewter category. Many of the items shown have very limited quantites available. We are expecting more pewter in the coming weeks so be sure to check back.

Celebrating May

2011-04-29T20:54:00.001-04:00

May is one of our favorite months here at Circa. The life-giving rains of April have done their job famously, coaxing the trees and flowers to burst forth in a Broadway-worthy cabaret of multi-colored hues.

It’s a grand time to celebrate! And if the warmer weather and eye-popping performance of Mother Nature itself isn’t excuse enough for you to throw off the comforter and kick up your heels, then mark your calendar with the following dates which are certain to inspire a bit of well-justified merrymaking.

We invite you to check in with us periodically as we’ll be taking a closer look at a number of these events as the merry month of May tap dances her way through our hearts.

May 1st is Mother Goose Day (how fun!) and, of course, May Day.

Every year at Circa we delight in gathering a bouquet of early posies from our garden and place May Baskets anonymously on doorknobs throughout our tiny village. It’s a simple gesture but we guarantee you’ll take as much pleasure in doing it as anyone who receives one does! (See our previous blog for suggestions on how to create your own May Day treasures to share.)

May 2^nd is National Truffles Day (the mushroom variety, not the candy kind) and May 3^rd is National Raspberry Popover Day. (Now that’s more like it!)

Cinco De Mayo, May 5^th, is the ideal time to celebrate with a lively Mexican Fiesta. Bring on the Guacamole, Carne Asada Tacos, Rice and Beans and perhaps, if you’re feeling a tad naughty, even a Margarita (or two) might be in order. Feeling even more adventurous? Might we suggest inviting some of your favorite Senors and Senoritas over to the homestead, clear out the rugs, push back the furniture and have the local dance studio in to give Salsa dance lessons in your living room. Talk about kicking up your heels. Ole’!

Artwork by the a-may-zing Geninne Zlatkis, from the whimsical website TheyDrawAndCook.com .

Be sure to visit Geninne's etsy store at www.etsy.com/shop/Geninne

May 6^th is Nurse’s Day and May 8^th is National Teacher’s Day, both worthy dates to keep in mind.

The second Sunday of every May is Mother’s Day. Whatever you do, mark this date! And remember~ candy, flowers and cards are nice, but nothing beats the gift of time spent together.

May 11^th is Eat What You Want Day (we’re serious~ whoopee!) and May 15^th is National Chocolate Chip Day. (Can it get any better?)

May 13^th is National Apple Pie Day, taken very seriously in our neighboring state of Vermont. I.E ~ “No. 15, effective May 10, 1999, apple pie is designated the official State Pie. When serving apple pie in Vermont, a "good faith" effort shall be made to meet one or more of the following conditions: (a) with a glass of cold milk, (b) with a slice of cheddar cheese weighing a minimum of 1/2 ounce, (c) with a large scoop of vanilla ice cream. ~ from the Office of the Secretary of State, Vermont Legislative Directory.” Way to go, Vermont!

Noel's makes the most delicious Apple Pie - hands down!

May 18^th is National Museum Day and a trip to your local museum with the kids or grandkids is surely in order. Let’s teach our young ones early on that learning can be fun.

A fun day with our god-niece Elsa at the Harvard Museum of Natural History in Boston.

May 23^rd is National Taffy Day (it just got better!) and May 25^th is National Escargot Day. (Umm~ to each his own.)

Memorial Day is May 26^th in the United States, a time to reflect on the brave men and women who died in service to our great country. Perhaps a quiet picnic in the park today?

May is also Asparagus Month, National Book Month, National Better Hearing and Speech Month, National Nursing Home Month, Flower Month and, one of our favorites, National Barbecue Month. It’s been a long, cold winter here in Dresden and we’re more than ready to throw a few shrimp on the barbie to celebrate the month away.

Lastly, but certainly not leastly (is that a word?), May is National Strawberry Month, and a fruit more worthy of such an honor would be difficult for us to name. After all, strawberries are known to be low in calories (excellent news!) and high in Vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants and may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Further, research indicates that these plump, little powerhouses may help improve our memory. (More strawberries~ please!) Besides all that, they’re delicious.

Here in Maine, as in much of New England, we can’t expect to pick our strawberries until June, but we find them so irresistible, we just can’t help but push the season a tad. After all, is there any better way to finish off a good, old, belt-loosening barbeque than with batch of home made Strawberry Shortcake crowned with oodles and oodles of whipped cream?

In the Circa kitchen, tradition dictates that in lieu of cake, these crimson beauties rest their heads on a pillow of biscuits fresh out of the oven. We’ll be posting a few of our favorite biscuit recipes (even one that’s gluten free!) in plenty of time for strawberry picking in your area.

Yes, it’s clear to see that May is simply a-may-zing, so join us, if you will, as we find reason to celebrate this glorious month, week after week after week.

Happy May Day!

2011-04-23T14:26:00.000-04:00

The tradition of the May Basket, or “Bringing in the May”, can be linked to the ancient Druid holiday of May Day, a celebration of spring and the forthcoming pleasures of summer.

Surprising a friend or neighbor on May 1^st by anonymously hanging a flower filled May Basket on their doorknob is surely as much of a heart-tickling delight now as it was in days of yore.

Fashioning May Baskets can be as straightforward or as involved as one wishes the process to be. Here at Circa we rarely allow our imaginations to be bound by ritual, choosing, rather, to embrace simplicity instead. Thus, the traditional basket might be substituted by an old canning jar, a clay pot or perhaps, even, a porcelain tea cup~ whatever might be at hand that we deem suitable to hold our May Day offerings.

Gather containers, colorful Spring ribbons and fresh posies.

Select an appropriate ribbon, and then tie it around the container,
leaving enough on the ends to form a loop to hang over doorknob.

Arrange flowers in a pleasing manner.

Address a tag with the recipient's name or nice sentiment. We use simple shipping tags which can be found at most office supply stores. Tie sentiment tag on container.

Hang your May Basket on the recipient's doorknob, knock once,
and then vanish like mist in the morning sun.

With that said, spring flowers might be substituted for little trinkets, sweets for a child, or perhaps a pot of honey for a tea aficionado. If our offering proves too cumbersome for the doorknob, we place it before the threshold. We hold firm to the notion that it’s not the offering or the way in which it is presented that counts, but rather the thought.

We encourage you to enjoy the process, be creative, and elaborate at will.

Happy May Day, One and All!

Dying Eggs the Circa way

2011-04-16T23:08:00.016-04:00

Here at Circa, Easter marks a very special time of year. The moment we spot the first limey-yellow buds of the forsythia we know it’s time to rub the sleep from our eyes, throw the windows open wide, and breathe in the clean, crisp air of spring. It’s time once again to run outside, sweep off the steps, prune back the roses, drag out the hoses, and rake up the yard. Time to head to the potting shed and scrub out the old clay pots that have been waiting patiently to accept a whole new gathering of cooking herbs and annuals. Time for morning tea on the terrace, a walk in the woods, a long overdue visit to a neighbor.

But amid all the cheerful hustle and bustle of revival, we never loose sight of what the Easter holiday truly represents, and whether it be religious, as it is to certain of our friends, or chocolate bunny oriented, as it is to others, adorning our home with an array of festively colored eggs to celebrate is a yearly tradition we anticipate with relish.

Each year at about this same time we prepare a passel of eggs and stir up a whole new batch of our natural dyes. We adore the way these subtlety colored eggs (primitive, some might say) look tucked in amongst the leather bound novels in our library, placed in a pewter bowl in the parlor, and laid in an old woven basket in the foyer.

Inevitably, visitors ask for our recipe for the natural dyes we use and we’re always happy to share.

If you’d like to compose your own symphony of naturally dyed eggs to celebrate the season, here’s how we do it~

1) First and foremost put some music on. Every project is better with the soothing strains of Beethoven or Jack Johnson or Barbra Streisand in the background.

2) Next, hard boil as many eggs as you’d like. We've found that white eggs from White Leghorn chickens works best, but don't let that stop you from experimenting with brown eggs as well. The depth of color achieved with them can prove marvelous.

3) Allow the eggs to cool, then wash them in warm, soapy water to remove any oily residue and dry them.

4) Place a good handful of dye-stuff in a pan. (You’ll find a listing of some of the materials we’ve used in the past below.) The amount of organic material is up to you. Let trial and error be your guide and all will turn out fine. Remember~ this is not a perfect science. Nothing is a mistake. In point of fact, some of what we've initially believed to be 'mistakes' in the past have turned out to be the most enchanting in the end. Everything in life is a process, and patience is a virtue which we can all use a little more of.

5) Add water to about an inch above the dye-stuff. We figure roughly a cup of water to each handful of dye-stuff is adequate.

6) Bring water just to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low.

7) Allow the fusion to simmer for 15 minutes or more, even up to an hour, until you gain the depth of dye color desired. When the color is to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. The deeper the dye color, the richer the egg color will be. Keep in mind, however, that your eggs will rarely be as dark as your dye.

8) Pour the hot dye liquid into a glass measuring cup, or strain through cheesecloth if necessary.

9) Add 2 to 3 teaspoons of white vinegar for each cup of strained dye and stir, then pour your dye into a vessel deep enough to completely cover your eggs. Use whatever is at hand. We've used ceramic bowls if we're dying several eggs at a time, or even coffee mugs and wine glasses for individual eggs.

10) Carefully lower your hard boiled eggs into the warm dye and allow them sit until you’ve achieved a color pleasing to your eye. This may take awhile. Enjoy a cup of tea. Thumb thru a magazine.

(~ Side Note~ Ofttimes, instead of hard boiling the eggs, we'll blow out the insides which helps these little treasures last much longer, often for years. Or until our dear godchildren visit with over-inquisitive hands. Or Elphie, our cat, decides they're loads of fun to roll around the floor.

As eggs will float on top of the dye you must turn them regularly to realize consistent color all around. We've also found that the greatest portion of the color 'takes' when the dye is warm, so if your decorating tendencies lean toward consistency, be attentive at this stage. Us? Not so much. We take great joy in diversity.)

11) After a time, check your eggs. You may wish to remove them after only a few minutes, or you may want to wait. We like to vary the times to create a rainbow of soft colors. Indeed, we've even kept some of ours in dye overnight. The longer each egg soaks, the richer the final color usually is. Have fun. Let your creativity flow.

~ Important to note~ if you're working with hard boiled eggs and intend to eat them, accomplish any long term dying in the refrigerator.

12) When your eggs have achieved their desired richness, lift them out of the dye with a slotted spoon and allow them to dry on a rack or egg carton. Handle them carefully for the dye has not 'set' at this stage and may rub off. Then again, if you’d like a textured look on your finished creation, dab them with a sponge or paper towel before they thoroughly dry. You may even wish to scratch friends and family members names in them now and use them as place markers for your next spring dinner party!

As we mentioned earlier, naturally dyed eggs will boast a subtle, matt finish, which we like, but if you prefer a glossier sheen, rub them with mineral oil or cooking oil after they’ve dried.

And that’s all there is to it!

Happy Easter everyone!

Noel & Verge

The Boyz from Circa Home Living

Below is a list of the natural materials we’ve used to varying success.

Red~

Red Onion Skins (Boiled. We recommend using a good amount of these.)

Pomegranate Juice

Canned Cherries

Black Cherry Juice (If we're working with juice, we simply heat it and then add the vinegar. No need to dilute with water~ unless you want to, of course.

Pink~

Beets or the Juice from Pickled Beets

Cranberries or even Cranberry Juice

Raspberries

Red Grape Juice

Blue~

Blueberries (we've even used canned!)

Boiled Purple Cabbage leaves

Purple Grape Juice

Lavender or Violet
A diluted portion of Purple Grape Juice

Boiled Red Onion Skins (again, a goodly amount seems to work better.)

Red Zinger Tea

Red Wine

Gold~

Turmeric works well.

Green~

Boiled Spinach Leaves

Greenish Yellow~

Boiled Peels of Yellow Delicious Apples

Orange~

Boiled Yellow Onion Skins

Paprika

Yellow~

Boiled Orange Peels or Lemon Peels (use lots for these to produce a very subtle color.)

Chamomile Tea

Green Tea

Boiled Ground Cumin or Ground Turmeric

Three Cheers for Spring!

2011-04-11T10:12:00.004-04:00

Hip-hip Hurrah!

If you’re at all like us, you’re surely bubbing over with delight about the promise of spring. Winter is wonderful~ for awhile~ but spring; spring is truly spectacular. It’s another magical renewal, causing us to rejoice and give thanks to our dearest love of all, Mother Earth.

Here at Circa, Winter’s blanket has receded (finally!) and all about, Spring is taking hold. The robins have returned from their seasonal retreat, bob-bob-bobbing through the orchard and across our lawn in search of tasty treats. Crocuses are starting to smile in yummy shades of purple and blue and sun-drenched yellow, the buds on the lilacs are beginning to swell and beneath their twiggy bower, the rich, green spires of daffodil leaves are pushing the oak leaves aside and bravely breaking through.

Spring is here!

Hip-hip Hurrah!

Gingerbread men!

2010-12-24T12:23:00.024-05:00

The preparation & anticipation is half the fun - M.K. Moulton

Wishing all of our followers a delightful holiday season filled with festive family traditions.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE !
~ Noel & Verge ~

'Twas the night before Christmas...

2010-12-24T12:13:00.025-05:00

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, - not even a mouse:
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there....
~Clement Clarke Moore

Photo by M.K. Moulton - taken at our home.

We're Dreaming of a White Christmas!

2010-12-17T12:14:00.000-05:00

Having a hard time choosing a gift?

2010-12-15T22:42:00.001-05:00

Our Gift Certificates take out all the guess work while still bringing joy to your loved ones this holiday season! Available in any amount. Order online or call toll free at 888-887-1820.

2010-12-15T22:36:00.002-05:00

From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another,
the warmth and joy of Christmas brings us closer to each other.
~ Emily Matthews ~

2010-12-15T22:28:00.000-05:00

The holidays are upon us, and that means that our homes are decorated and all "spruced" up. Poinsettias make a festive decoration during the season, their beautiful red flowers lend themselves to the traditional color themes of the holiday.

Making a list, checking it twice...

2010-11-25T23:45:00.000-05:00

Start your holiday shopping at the Nobleboro Antique Exchange "Christmas Open House" ~ Route 1, Nobleboro, Maine ~ Friday, Nov 26th thru Sunday, Nov 28th from 10am to 5pm. Call 207-563-6800 for directions.

Create your own "homespun" Christmas with our wonderful selection of Ornaments, Garlands, Snowmen, Santas, Potpourris, Candles and so much more. Join the celebration by sampling Christmas cookies & mulled cider while listening to music of the season. The always friendly staff at Nobleboro Antiques will be on hand to help with your purchase. We hope that if you are in the area you will stop by to check out our sampler showroom filled to the brim with holiday goodies.

While there enjoy "Sweet Woodruff's - Christmas in the Garden" featuring her signature wreaths, decor and indulgences.
Also, shop the heirloom selections from a wide variety of antique merchants to complete the list for the hard to please.

If you are not able to make it in person this weekend, check out the holiday offerings on our website by clicking here or visit the Nobleboro Antique Exchange throughout the month of December.

Wishing you & yours a festive Holiday Season - Noel & Verge

Autumnal foliage

2010-11-13T07:32:00.030-05:00

Although the leaves have now fallen here in Maine, we couldn't resist sharing an image of the beautiful fall foliage taken just a few weeks ago. The leaves just come and go so quickly! The old wavy glass throughout our home gives the impression that the images were captured in a pool of water.

It's such a wonderful time of year- the temperature cools, the pace of day to day life begins to slow and preparations for a cold winter begin. Fall is a special time of year here in Maine, where a feeling of transition and transformation takes hold.

We hope that you enjoy your weekend!

As Ever - Noel & Verge

2011 Circa Home Living Catalog!

2010-11-09T16:47:00.001-05:00

We're pleased as punch to let you know that the 2011 catalog has mailed! You will find a great selection of original artwork, woven textiles, hand crafted wooden furniture, lighting accents and lots of whimsical accessories! If you haven't received your copy, please let us know.

To request a copy you can email us,

or call us toll free at 1-888-887-1820.

Simple Greens, Simply Country

2010-09-21T17:49:00.002-04:00

There's a chill in the air, and we've just received the highly anticipated book by Judy Condon, Simple Greens- Simply Country. It's here just in time to inspire you for the holiday season! If your looking for a way to "spruce" up your holiday decorating, then this is the book for you. This is the twelth book in her best selling "Simply Country" series.

Judy explains that historically, decorating with greens is as American as apple pie. For hundreds of years, people have been using natural resources to beautify their homes. Decorating with natural objects has become a time honored tradition, going back as far as the beginning of our civilization. It has been a way to connect with things from our past, while teaching our children about nature and tradition.

Judy takes us through some of the most beautiful homes, decorated with simple and elegant greens. It's as though you are taken on 11 home tours, from the comfort of your very own home!

Click here to order Simple Greens and here for Judy's other books.

The Circa Home Living “Sampler” is now open!

2010-04-06T12:06:00.003-04:00

Recently an opportunity presented itself to open our own “room” – a Sampler of the products we offer in our mail order catalog & website at the Nobleboro Antique Exchange on Route 1 in Nobleboro, Maine.

We have transformed this space -

into this beautifully decorated room, filled with must have Lighting, Artwork, Pewter, Pottery, Textiles, Wood Accessories, Windsor Furnishings, Glass, Rugs, Candles, Decorating Books and so much more!

Although Nobleboro Antique Exchange is best known as a quality collective shop for antiques, the owners Lisa & John have recently expanded the shop to include a wonderful Antique Restoration Center for anyone seeking fine craftsmen offering Clock Repair, Framing, Porcelain Repair, Chair Caning, Custom Framing & Frame Repair, Art Restoration, Light Metal Repair, Metal Polishing, Woodworking (Carving, Veneers & Inlays), Furniture Refinishing, Barometer Repair and Custom Upholstery services. In addition, they are now expanding the services being offered by welcoming Sweet Woodruff Farm (formerly of Boothbay and Wiscasset) for garden related items & now Circa Home Living, for American Made furnishings & accessories. Nobleboro Antique Exchange is pleased to introduce the “New Face of Antiquing,” where old and new mix harmoniously.
We would like to thank all of our customers who turned out to show their support during the Nobleboro Antique Exchange Spring Open House. If you are not able to stop by on the Open House weekend don’t despair – you may visit during regular hours for the Antique Exchange - Open daily from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Although we will not be on hand at our “room” during regular hours, the wonderful staff at Nobleboro Antique Exchange will be happy to assist you with your purchase or any questions you might have on our products. For directions click here or contact us toll free 888-887-1820.
Our room may be small but we have filled it to the brim with wonderful hand-made items sure to please. Visit often as we will be introducing new items on a regular basis.
We are open for business – c’mon in and take a peek.
We hope that you enjoy your visit.
Noel & Verge

Lost followup – CHL is found!

2010-04-03T09:35:00.000-04:00

For those who missed it, here are a few images from “our” episode of LOST. As you can see ~ the Oval and Round Sconces and Skillet Candleholder were used in several scenes. We believe that we spotted an oil lamp as well but the scene was so dark that we couldn’t get a good screen capture of it. Thanks to all who watched and a BIG thank you to Carol – one amazing set decorator! This was one of the BEST episodes ever!

Circa Home Living gets LOST!

2010-03-17T20:55:00.003-04:00

You might be thinking, what could Circa Home Living and LOST possibly have in common? Well, last November we received a call from Carol, a set decorator who wanted to place an order for our battery operated candles, flicker bulbs, primitive candle rods, assorted tin sconces and hand-forged iron pieces. She explained that the items would be used to dress an early 1800’s cottage scene, set in the Canary Islands. This definitely piqued our interest. When asked what movie this was for, we were told that it was for the hit ABC series “LOST!” We could barely contain our excitement as this has been one of our favorite shows for the past 6 years.

We spoke with Carol this afternoon and she confirmed that the episode with our items will air next Tuesday, March 23rd at 9pm EST! Entitled “Ab Aeterno,” the episode will focus on the back story of the very mysterious Richard Alpert. We are very excited to watch the episode and we hope that you will watch along with us to see what you can spot!

Keep in mind that when a set is dressed with products you never know how much you will actually see in the finished product. We know this from past experience where we have seen fleeting glimpses of a Wall Box, Pewter Candlestick Holder or Outdoor Lantern - to name a few. It is exciting nonetheless to know that we have contributed in a small way to this groundbreaking show.

Some of the items that may appear in the episode are shown below. Most are available for purchase by clicking on the specific item.

We hope that you enjoy!

All our best ~ Noel & Verge

Curl up with a new book!

2010-01-14T20:58:00.001-05:00

We’re pleased to announce that Judy Condon’s latest book – “The Warmth of Home” - #9 in the Simply Country series has arrived!
Judy’s best-selling books are devoted to country homes and lifestyles. Each book is bursting with 144 pages of full color photographs, often featuring both interiors and exteriors of homes, barns, potting sheds, country gardens, gathering rooms, kitchens, collections and other charming vignettes. 8" x 11" - Paperback.

Don’t miss out! Collect them all!

Wishing a very Merry Christmas to everyone!

2009-12-25T09:51:00.001-05:00

From our home to yours -

Noel & Verge at Circa Home Living.

Happy December!

2009-12-11T10:28:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! Happy December! It’s hard to believe that November has come and gone and here we are in December already. Where does the time go?

I know we have been busy little elves over the past few months here at Circa Home Living. We are doing our darndest to make sure that everyone will get the goodies they ordered in time for Christmas. It’s not too late - there is still time to order for Christmas delivery.

Earlier this week we saw our first major storm of the season leaving a blanket of white covering the birdhouses and gardens. Our wild turkeys have returned. Our little bird friends flitter about from feeder to feeder. Such a beautiful time of year! Now if only we didn’t have to deal with the cold ~ but living in Maine we should be used to that by now, right?

Well, it’s time to listen to one of our favorite Christmas CD’s - “Songs of the Season” by Jane Olivor. Perhaps we will follow that up with “December” by Kenny Loggins! What are some of your favorites? We would love to hear from you.

Happy Holidays to you & yours.

Noel & Verge

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The 2010 Catalog is coming!!

2009-10-23T18:43:00.001-04:00

Dear Blogger Friends,

We’re back! Our apologies for not posting in such a long time. We have been super busy over the past two months designing & photographing new products and creating the brand new "2010 Circa Home Living" catalog. We are happy to announce that the catalog has been mailed! Pheeww! This year we feature over 125 new items ~ many exclusive to Circa Home Living! We hope you enjoy our new offerings and as always, we welcome your suggestions or comments.

If you already receive our catalog, check your mailbox over the course of the next week.
If you have had a recent change of address please let us know so we can update our records & get a copy in the mail to you.
If you have never received our catalog, but would like to, please email us at circa@circa1820.com with your mailing address.

We look forward to hearing from you.
All our best - Noel & Verge

As seen in Country Living magazine – August 2009

2009-08-11T22:41:00.000-04:00

Just in! This whimsical Tin Crow Tobacco Stick Rack includes 2 large crows, 3 small crows and 6 hooks. Hang your favorite drieds, hand towels or garden tools. 48" wide by 13" high. To purchase click the link above or explore our website at www.circahomeliving.com

Potting Shed & Backyard

2009-07-15T23:21:00.000-04:00

Many of you have emailed asking to see more of the outdoor spaces around our home. Well . . . here ya go.

Several years ago we built this multi-functional Potting Shed in the backyard. We love the look of the cedar shakes! We store bird seed behind the red doors. Clay pots & soil are kept handy for transplanting on the handy top surface above the doors. Rakes & long handled tools are stored in the barrel inside the opening.

We attach leather straps to our favorite tools and keep them handy by hanging them from an old Tobacco Stick drying rack.

Since our property is mostly ledge, raised beds are a necessity. Here we have beds for Runner Beans, Cukes, Zucchini, Squash, Peppers & Tomatoes.

We recently reworked Sasha’s Garden with old brick around the beds. The backdrop is Quince, which produces gorgeous salmon colored flowers in the Spring. Nestled in the beds are Peonies, Coral Bells, Wild Irises, Chocolate plants & Catmint. Self seeding Forget-Me-Nots & thyme spread between the bricks.

Two Cherry trees mark the entrance to the raised beds. Inside ~ White Irises, Dianthus, Columbine, False Indigo, Bee Balm & Catmint are in bloom. You will notice that at the base of the trees we made a ring of old bricks to make trimming & weeding easier. Inside the ring we planted Forget-Me-Nots.

In the center of the raised beds a cement birdbath entices birds on hot days for a drink or a dip in the “pool.” The fan tailed pigeon statuary is one of our favorites and in winter, rather than stow it away we bring it inside to admire.

Garden Delights

2009-07-06T20:49:00.000-04:00

Clockwise from the upper left hand corner –

A curious cement mouse sits atop the weathered Adirondack chair that is nestled amongst the ferns.

The Potting Shed is centrally located and stocked with pots & tools for planting.

This terra cotta Rooster pokes its head out from the flowering Catmint.

Tomatoes ripen on the vine in one of the many cedar barrels in the backyard.

Bittersweet winds it way up the post to find this antique birdhouse.

A metal wagon wheel rests in front of the lichen covered rocks surrounding the secret garden.

Dipper gourds are drilled and transformed into birdhouses.

A recycled white picket fence holds back the quince in Sasha’s garden.

The stone birdbath gives the birds a place to bathe & cool off on hot days.

Hollyhocks, in shades of white, cream & light pink make a wonderful backdrop in Sable’s herb garden.

Black-eyed Susans add a splash of color throughout the raised beds.

Garage Door Redo

2009-06-08T22:23:00.000-04:00

This 1750’s center chimney cape was moved to our property from the center of town and converted into a 2 car garage. Unfortunately, it had those ugly modern overhead doors. Although they can be very practical they are not very attractive to look at. One day in a casual conversation with a friend we mentioned that we were not happy with the look of the doors as they did not fit with the period of our home. It just so happened that he knew of an old barn that was being torn down where we could salvage 150 year old boards. We jumped at the chance! A few weeks later, out with the old and in with the . . . well “old.” The doors now complement the weathered red shingles and a simple redo makes a world of difference. We smile every time we drive up to it.

Strap Hinges & Hardware used for doors available from Williamsburg Blacksmith in Williamsburg, MA. Visit their website at www.WilliamsburgBlacksmith.com

Forget-Me-Nots

2009-05-09T03:03:00.002-04:00

Sorry it has been so long since our last post. As you may have seen from our website we have been busy photographing and adding new items. We have more to come but thought we would take a few moments to add a new blog entry.

Spring is such a wonderful time of year and it’s hard not to think of Tasha Tudor at this time of year when the Forget-Me-Nots are in bloom. They were, after all, one of her favorite flowers. On a Secret Garden tour of the Tudor properties a few years ago with our best friend Mark, we were fortunate to be able to walk thru Tasha’s very own “Secret Garden” where Forget-Me-Nots grew aplenty. It was magical and we had the added thrill of Tasha waving to us from her kitchen window as we passed by. It’s hard to believe that it has been almost a year since her passing. We think of her often and miss her outlook on the world around us.

Here in Sasha’s Garden, named so for our wonderful cat of 8 years, the FMNs self seed each year and grow between the bricks. It makes for a spectacular display with our wicker furniture and white fence with Quince in the background. Once the flowers go to seed we collect a few to spread around the yard to bloom elsewhere next year. For a really great look we sprinkle the seeds under fruit trees or honeysuckle bushes. More pics to follow.

Mark is always amazed at how our variety of FMNs are in bloom so much earlier than his, even though we are 5 hours northeast of him. Our blooms are, unfortunately, very short lived while Mark’s bloom throughout the summer. We wish that ours would last just a tad longer. He has loads of FMNs that grow along the river in a very natural setting. Just beautiful! In addition to having a green thumb and a wonderful eye for landscape design Mark is a very talented author in his own right. Be sure to check out his website www.MarkKimballMoulton.com to read about his wonderful, heartwarming books and peek inside his home & gardens. He & his partner Lane have been featured in several well known magazines such as Country Living, Country Home & Early American Life.

In the words of Tasha Tudor - ‘Take Joy.”

Until next time . . . N & V

See What’s New . . . Canvas Oil Paintings

2009-04-22T11:57:00.000-04:00

We look forward to finding new & exciting items each year for our mail order catalog and website. Imagine our delight & surprise when a valued customer of ours from New England approached us with their beautiful works of art.

Lovers of the Colonial style, Jane & Barron Hansen, found it difficult to find the pieces that they wanted to adorn their home. Since they were always good at design & decorating they decided to use their self-taught talents to produce these beautiful Theorem style oils on canvas. Jane & Barron work on most of the oil paintings together. Jane preps the canvas, applies the crackle process followed by stenciling and shading in her own style. Then Barron details the finer line work and shading. This is then finished with several coats of aging medium.

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We hope that you enjoy these new works of art as much as we do. We know they will look spectacular in any home.

Accent Pillows

2009-04-16T22:40:00.000-04:00

A fresh selection has just arrived! Soften any room in your home with Accent Pillows featuring patterns from the 18th and 19th centuries. Add several to a couch to make it look more inviting. Accent an Antique Settee or bed (see below) or toss one in a Windsor Chair to make your house look warm & welcoming. Available in Brick or Blue in several sizes. Cotton/Acrylic. Each pillow has a solid linen colored backing.

Late Afternoon Light

2009-04-14T22:45:00.006-04:00

There is something fascinating about late afternoon light finding its way thru a window to play fanciful tricks with ordinary items in your home. Passing thru the Summer Kitchen one afternoon we couldn't help but notice how the light played off of the Wax Pomegranates resting in these Wooden Bowls. We felt it was worth grabbing the camera to take a shot. Our wax fruit looks great resting in a bowl, lined up on a mantle or on display in Glass Jars. Each piece of fruit is realistically molded and lightly dusted with a fragrant mix of spices! The bowls rest upon a striking Black & Mustard Orange Peel Placemat.

Noel's Delicious Marinated Salad

2009-03-31T10:30:00.004-04:00

Many of you emailed or phoned asking about the recipe for Noel's Marinated Salad from our Country Living article last fall. We posted it on our website but it was in an obscure, hard to find area so we will repost it here for all to enjoy. This salad benefits from being made a day ahead so the veggies can marinate overnight.

Veggies

1 Head Cauliflower

1 Head Broccoli

1 Lg White Onion

4 Stalks Celery

1 Bell Pepper (Red or Green)

1 Unpeeled Red Apple

Cut all veggies into bite size pieces and place into a non-metallic bowl.

Dressing

In a separate bowl combine -

1/2 Cup Sugar

1/3 Cup White Vinegar

1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil

1 Cup Salad Dressing (Miracle Whip)

Pour dressing over veggies, mix to coat all veggies and chill overnight.

Enjoy !

Noel and Verge

Happy Spring!

2009-03-21T21:00:00.011-04:00

Spring has finally arrived here in Maine after a very long winter. The ground is thawing, the snow is melting, the crocuses are poking their heads up and the daffodils are sure to follow. Spring is one of our favorite seasons as we delight in checking daily to see what is waking up from its winter nap.

We just love the shot of these beautiful Tulips taken in our dining room. They are contained in an antique Pewter Pitcher resting on an old Penny Rug we found years ago at a local antiques show! A collection of Sgraffito & Yellowware pieces are housed in the corner cupboard in the background.

C'mon in and take a peek . . .

2009-03-11T14:19:00.017-04:00

We have always loved the look of a Slate Sink so when it came time to update our Pantry Kitchen we decided upon a custom sink by Sheldon Slate, located right here in Maine. For the countertops we called on our good friend Cindy Hamilton from Americana Workshop in Kennebunk, ME. She was able to track down old wood which she planed down and refinished to complete the look. Please take a moment to visit Cindy's shop & website. She makes the most wonderful reproduction pieces, many of which you will see throughout our home.

In the Summer Kitchen we installed an Antique Copper Sink, from Americana Workshop. It has the most wonderful patina and looks just perfect with the old wood countertops. Rosemary, one of our most favorite herbs, sits upon the windowsill to soak up the sun. To give this room more of a herbally feel we hung dried flowers from a ladder above the sink and decorated with assorted garlands, like the Gourd Garland which hangs to the right of the sink.

The Deacon's Bench, shown here in our Dining Room, is one of the very first antique pieces we purchased for the house. We softened the look with a matching pair of coverlet pillows. An antique mirror hangs above the bench on the original mirror board. To the left of the bench we hung our Long Cellar Rod . It fits perfectly in small areas.

This Living Room Mantle surrounds one of three working fireplaces throughout the house. We have adorned the mantle with Green Glass bottles (as seen in our catalog,) antique books, old spectacles & silhouettes. A hand-stenciled Fireboard by Hope Angier covers the fireplace during warmer months. We offer several hand-stenciled Fireboards in our catalog.

The Cannonball Bed is the focal point of the Master Bedroom. It stands sturdy and handsome in Black over Red crackle finish. For a primitive look Noel made simple curtain panels from Linsey Woolsey and used jute to hang them on square head nails in the windows. Jute was also used as the tiebacks.

Welcome to Circa Home Living!

2009-03-09T10:38:00.005-04:00

Hello and welcome to our new blog!

We're thrilled to be entering a brand new phase in the development of Circa Home Living! Blogging is growing in such popularity we couldn't help but try our hand at it.

Our catalog began as a grass roots effort to provide America with authentic reproductions of the period furniture and accessories we love and live with in our own historic home.

Since it's inception in 1996 we've grown tremendously in volume and size. While our concentration is still on hand-crafted, American Made products we have recently branched out to offer even more practical and whimsical offerings that are sure to please. We're very proud of our web presence and will continue to expand our product selection in the future.

The visit from Country Living magazine to our circa 1820 home in rural Maine (see the August 2008 issue of the magazine) was a wonderful experience. Since its publication, we've heard from many folks who'd like to see more images of our home. We're happy to post a few here for your enjoyment and plan on posting more periodically throughout the year.

We will also be posting photos and information under such categories as Decorating Tips, Collections, Favorite Photos, Field Trips, Recipes, Gardening, Great Reads, New Products and more relating to the lifestyle we enjoy.

We hope to make our blog as interesting and interactive as possible and openly welcome your comments & suggestions.

So, without further ado, we invite you to join us on our journey as we bring Circa Home Living into the world of today.

As Ever ~ Noel & Verge
Circa Home Living ~ It's not just a catalog ~ it's a lifestyle!