Turkey & Tulips

Turkey & Tulips

Recently I went to Turkey for the first and was absoluted delighted with that huge city of over 15 million people! It's much bigger than New York city and is on two continents with about 90% on the Asian side and 10% or less on the European side. 

Here is a great recipe from our Turkish Theme event that we had with family and friends where we were able to remember our great trip to Turkey.

Sigara Böreği

Ingredients:

  • 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Olive oil to brush

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl combine well the feta cheese, chopped parsley and egg.
  2. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on the clean counter top and brush with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and brush again. 
  3. Cut the phyllo in half or into strips about 3 inches wide and add the cheese mixture with a tablespoon on the beginning of the strip then roll until the end. Seal the ends with wet fingers (water) to make sure mixture does not come out while baking. 
  4. Repeat the process with the rest of the cheese mixture.
  5. Fry them in a bit of olive oil and turn once they turn light brown and cirspy. 
  6. Place a paper towel on a plate and drain them there once cooked on all sides.
  7. Serve warm.

Brush the olive oil lightly on both sheets. Notice that I cut the sheet halfway horizontally it's about 3 inches on each stripe.

Mix the feta cheese, parsley and olive oil.

Place a tablespoon on one end and start rolling. Make sure you brush with olive oil the sheet underneath as well and roll them together, it takes 2 sheets.

Dip your fingers in water and wet the ends so that the dough closes and does not open when you fry it.

Flip them so they can brown on both sides.

So crispy and crunchy! Serve warm, it's simply delicious and just the perfect appetizer! 

To celebrate this event I was looked for a tulip dress and table linens, but since I did not find it, I designed and made all my own, but that is a blog for another time, lol. Enjoy!

Inspired dress design by one of my paintings.

These are the napkins and there are other products like tea towel etc.

Also created all the stationary related to the theme and I hope you like it. I will give you a sneak preview below.

You can see above "Turkey Facts" which I framed, food label table cards (see below) and 5"x7" table cards. Folded cards, Table runner, our itinerary in Turkey and recipes and dress making will be in a different blog. 

Don't you just love having everything match for your theme? My next one will be hydrangeas so stay tuned!

Remember to sign up for my newsletter below to get exclusive early access to all my new products including new paintings.

What is coming next? Hydrangeas! There will also be there a link to download a pretty blue hydrangeas phone screen saver for free on the next newsletter (for my subscribers only, so sign up below). Below is my latest work, enjoy and let me know what you think. 

Get my free hydrangeas Phone Wallpaper screen saver in your inbox. These watercolor hydrangeas just make you smile, just sign up below (subscribers have exclusive access to offers, downloads etc)! 

Elegant living with coordinated grace.
Diga Linda ~ Say Beautiful
By Ceci Mason
 
You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook and more social channels when you click ➡️     https://linktr.ee/cecimasonart
xo Ceci Mason founder and artist
 Diga Linda  Say Beautiful
 
 
July 22, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Casa Bela Serene Blue And White Tiles!

Casa Bela Serene Blue And White Tiles!

Bring the latest "Casa Bela" serene blue and white tiles print into your home!
July 02, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
The symbolism of hydrangeas and a family delicious recipe.

The symbolism of hydrangeas and a family delicious recipe.

Hi friends,

Who else is obsessed with hydrangeas? Many believe that these flowers originated in Japan. In Japan legend has it that the flower became associated gratitude and a heartfelt emotion, an apology after a Japanese emperor gave them to a girls family who he was in love with, to make up for neglecting her in favor of business and how much he cared about her. 

It's hydrangea season and these look so good on an Alfresco Tablescape!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ENTIRELY PAINTED BY HAND TABLECLOTH HERE

The meaning of Hydrangeas:

  • The pink hydrangeas are associated with genuine and sincere emotions of the meaning of love and symbolize true feelings making them a great fit for spring and summer table arrangements or wedding bouquets because of their shape resembling a heart! 
  • Hydrangeas come in different shades of blue, pink, green, white and purple.
  • Hydrangeas are associated with an apology since they go back to ancient history of that legend where the emperor earned forgiveness by offering these flowers. So when you owe someone a sincere apology, you can convey your feelings by offering them and arrangement of blue hydrangeas.
  • The flower has many meanings, from heartfelt emotion to boastfullness, to gratitude. Each culture has their own interpretation of the flower according to their stories and beliefs.
  • Green hydrangeas can show your appreciation of the deep connection you hold with a friend while these flowers convey sincere emotions and deep understanding so if you have a friend's birthday coming up, then you can give them these wishing them prosperity and good health. 
  • Victorians considered white hydrangeas as a negative plant used for boastfulness, bragging or vanity. Since they produce massive flowers but very few seeds, these magnificent blooms were also given to women who turned down the man's love interest as signs that they were cold or frigid. So women who grew these in their gardens were thought to be unlikely to find a romantic companionship.
  • If you have a friend who is going through a difficult time, you can give the purple hydrangeas since these convey a deep understanding. 
  • Alabama designated the hydrangea as the state's official flower in 1999.

Follow these steps to prolong the beauty of your cut hydrangeas:

  • Once you cut the blooms outdoors, place them directly in a bucket with water, once they are inside boil a pot of water. Remove it from the heat, cut the hydrangea to the right length and place them in the water for 30 seconds. Use alum to help preserve the hydrangeas by cutting stems to length dip the end of each stem into about 1/2 inch of alum powder them place them in the vase in room temperature water. OR if you don't want to use alum, put one table spoon of bleach (to kill bacteria and one tablespoon of sugar ( to feed the blooms) into the vase and mix with water, then add the flowers.
  • Revive wilted hydrangeas, change the water and use the boiling water method above. 

Hydrangea Uses:

  • The leaves of the hydrangeas are poisonous if ingested because they contain cyanoecic glycosides which release dydrongen cyanhide when chewed, however the roots ar used for medicinal purposes. Hydrangea root can be used as an antioxidant and is also used to treat kidney problems.
  • This beautiful flower is a favorite among florists and home gardeners everywhere! Because they produce magnificent large blooms and beauty, they are great to use in many different occasions, including heartfelt moments, apologies and thanks.

Hydrangeas facts:

  • The name hydrangea comes from the Greek words hydros, meaning water, and angos meaning jar, which makes sense since these flowers require so much water. However if you water too much, you can kill these flowers. The signs of watering are yellowing of the leaves, wilting, leaves falling off or slow growth.
  • Hydrangeas bloom in different formations. The most popular is the mophead hydrangeas whose flowers grow in big ball clusters. Panicle hydrangeas which grow well in cold climates have flowers that grow in cone-shaped clusters. Lacecap hydrangeas, which grow well in the shade, have clusters of tiny blooms and larger blooms.
  • Hydrangeas are often given o the 4th wedding anniversaries to symbolize appreciation and heartfelt emotion.
  • The largest diversity of hydrangeas species exists in eastern Asia which includes Japan China, and Korea.

For the love of hydrangeas

Maybe you did not realize that hydrangea colors had so many specific meanings but these brilliant blooms are highly commendable to give to someone since they convey so many sentiments. Whether you choose to give them as a plant or floral arrangement to a friend, your recipient will surely appreciate and admire your magnificent blooms! 

White hydrangea tablecloths by Diga  Linda

READ MORE

Delicious soup to feed a crowd!

This family recipe that I am sharing with you is not only delicious but very healthy. We call it "Sopa de Legumes" back in Portugal and the veggies are made into a creamy and smooth soup. It's quick to make (less than 30 minutes) and you can make ahead as well. It's great from the freezer as well! It pairs really well with any sandwich, salad or any meal. 

You will absolutely love this soup!

Portuguese Vegetable Soup

INGREDIENTS

6 tablespoons of olive oil

1 leek (or you can substitute for 1 medium onion)

5 large potatoes cut into pieces

5 large carrots cut into pieces

salt and pepper to taste

1 lb or spinach (optional)

5 cups of vegetable broth ( or water)

In a large pot (or dutch oven), place all the items except half of the spinach and cook until all is translucent and the vegetables are tender.

Remove from heat and puree with an hand blender until all is blended. 

Return to heat and stir in the other half of the spinach (which was optional) until it's cooked, it should take about 5 minutes and you are all done!

In Portugal we eat vegetable soup about 99% before any meal, it's very healthy and delicious. I hope you enjoy it! 

 PRINT RECIPE HERE

I have 1 set of these German fruit plates for sale, how darling are these? 

Vintage Bareuther fruit plates with gold trim

LEARN MORE

 

Look at the instant download I have for you below!

I designed a weekly meal plan and you can just print and plan your week with this FREE instant download HERE

NEW ART IS COMING...

Also I have room for 2 more commissions this summer, inquire at cecimasonart@gmail.com

Sign up for the newsletter to hear about NEW PAINTINGS, exclusive offers, new collections, recipes and so much more.
Elegant living with coordinated grace.
Diga Linda ~ Say Beautiful
By Ceci Mason

 

You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook and more social channels when you click ➡️     https://linktr.ee/cecimasonart

xo Ceci Mason founder and artist

 Diga Linda Say Beautiful

 

 

 

 

June 26, 2024 — Ceci Mason
Celebrate the National Day Of Portugal on June 10th

Celebrate the National Day Of Portugal on June 10th

 Portuguese Culture and History

Portugal Day is officially the day of Luís Vaz de Camōes (a Portuguese Poet) who wrote "Os Lusiadas" published in 1592 (The Lusiads), an epic poem about the voyages of  Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama to the East (they were both distantly related) and the discovery of the sea route to India. He died on June 10, 1580.
The National day of Portugal is celebrated annually on the 10th of June. It is one of the public holidays in Portugal and is celebrated by Portuguese people throughout the world. On this day we honor the rich culture, heritage and the history of the nation. People celebrate this day with large gatherings, programs and many different events take place in many different countries. Read on to be transported to an Alfresco dinner with delish make ahead recipes.
Here I am getting ready to celebrate with some cool and crisp blues.
 

Here you can see some of my blue and white designs that were inspired by my travels by to Portugal, specially the "Vincentian Coast" in the South of Portugal.

Vincentina Coast Tablecloths by Diga Linda

Vincentina Coast

LEARN MORE

Here I used the napkins to decorate the bottom of a tray.

Caprese Salad, regular or on a stick as appetizer - Make ahead

I had a crowd over yesterday and made lots of this delicious appetizer;

Caprese on a stick directions:

- Place the mini tomatoes, mozzarela balls, basil all in a salad bowl and marinate with balsamic vinegar, a bit of salt and olive oil.
- Start by placing first one tomato, then folded basil (one large leaf), then mozarella, then basil again and finish with another tomato!
I served them on a melamine lazy Susan for outdoors.

Regular salad directions:

- Slice tomatoes, mozarella and basil leaves. Start by arranging them in a plate alternating the mozarella and tomato then sprinkle with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, a bit of salt and olive oil. 
Leave in the fridge until ready to use.

Pesto and Parmesan Sticks

I made those bread sticks as well that you see in the picture. I just made pizza doug then added pesto and sprinkle parmesan cheese in a square piece of dough rolled out then cut in equal parts, roll them and sprinkle more cheese. Bake 15 minutes in a 500 degree oven or until brown.
 
So fresh for the Summer
Also since I love vintage so much here is a beautiful Spode plate that I have for sale!
Spode Blue Room "Caramanian" Plate
Sign up for the newsletter to hear about exclusive offers, new collections, recipes and so much more.
Elegant living with coordinated grace.
Diga Linda ~ Say Beautiful
By Ceci Mason
June 10, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Landon Forever School  products and Chicken Cacciatori with Vegetables Family Style

Landon Forever School products and Chicken Cacciatori with Vegetables Family Style

Make a delicious meal (Cacciatore family style) with a Portuguese salad. The recipes follow. I love the fresh aroma of herbs in my dishes! Each Spring I grow different herbs so I can have them fresh for meals.🌿

Chicken with Vegetables in a tomato sauce.

In a sauce pan brown with some olive oil:

* 4 heads of garlic

* One medium onion

* Half of a sliced red, yellow, orange and green pepper

* 1/3 C of white mushrooms sliced

* Add fresh herbs towards the end - basil, oregano, sage, parsley and rosemary.

 Place it all on a pan and cook let it cook. After it’s cooked about 15 minutes take out of the pan. Add more olive oil and add chicken breasts ( cut in half to make them thin), put a little salt and pepper on each side and cook completely.

* Cook rotini pasta (half a box) according to directions and drain.

* Add one jar of marinara tomato sauce and warm up with chicken. Add vegetables and transfer to a big platter that already has the rotini pasta cooked and drained in the family platter.

* Put cooked chicken with vegetables on top.

 

Portuguese salad recipe

* I head of red lettuce

* 1/2 of one sweet med onion

* 1/3 of cilantro chopped

* 4 or 5 Tablespoons sprinkled in the salad.

* Sprinkle a bit of red wine vinegar on it, salt and mix it all.

 PS: Since mom is visiting and does not like mushrooms, I used Zucchini and yellow squash instead.

 

You can do this dish on the slow cooker as well by placing the chicken in first then the rest after. Cook on low for about 6 hours or on high in about 4 hours. Cook pasta according to package directions separately, then serve on large dish placing pasta first the chicken on top with veggies from slow cooker after. It’s so delicious!

Herbs that I suggest you grow in the Spring: parsley, sage, thyme, basil, oregano, cilantro and mint (this one is invasive and needs to be on it's own pot).

Enjoy and if you make it, please let me know how you like it!

Let's Collaborate! Email:  cecimasonart@gmail.com 

 

🎀The YEAR OF THE "BOW"🎀
🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This link works now.
Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda
With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!
 
Ceci Mason's Art 
shop my art here
🌸🌸🌸
Follow Diga Linda on Instagram
Follow Diga Linda on Instagram
 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?
💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌
Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda
 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!
Blogs by Diga Linda
June 02, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Landon Forever School print products

Landon Forever School print products

The "Landon School" Forever school print designs are on the website for a limited time, there are over 20 products available. If you don't see what you are looking for, please let me know. If your child went to Landon, get a special graduation gift or thank you cards for the teachers with the same print.

 

June 02, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Lentils with chicken and carrots soup

Lentils with chicken and carrots soup

Hi friends,

My recipes are tied to my family and the heart beat of my family is the kitchen. Food brings people together, it connects us and it's an expression of caring, love, of nourishing, and sometimes creativity. We love sharing not only with the family but also with neighbours and friends. This specific recipe is from my dad and by sharing this Portuguese recipe, and these intimate moments, feelings with you and your dear ones, I hope you and your family gets to enjoy some of our flavors and customs. May your beautiful table be filled with delicious good food and also by the people you love and love you in return.  I love sharing delicious recipes and table top inspiration for you and your friends to enjoy, I hope many good meals and memories will be created.

This simple and fast soup is so healthy and it only has a few ingredients! It's made of carrots, lentils, chicken, rice, cilantro, olive oil, onion, garlic and salt, I love simple and delicious food!

 I used lentils (which I soaked overnight) and put that on my pot covering them with water, and a dash of salt and olive oil, then I added organic rainbow carrots (yellow, purple and orange). Add the chicken and then the rice and cilantro last. 

Super easy and super fast equals delicious! 

 Ingredients:

- 1 cup of lentils (soak overnight).

- 1 package of rainbow carrots, cut into little pieces

- 4 chicken pieces (I used 2 thighs and 2 legs)

- 1 medium onion ( sliced thin)

- 1 cup of rice 

- 1/2 cup of cilantro

- 2 Tablespoons of olive oil

- salt to taste

Directions:

Fill a large soup pot halfway with water then put all the ingredients together and cook for about 30 minutes on medium heat. Put in the cilantro (optional, and you can use parsley if you prefer instead) in the last 10 minutes of cooking. If you have any questions, please comment below.

Placemats, napkins and dress are by Sailor Sailor.

SHOP SAILOR SAILOR HERE

 

Shop these darling antique porcelain blue crescent moon dishes HERE

Let's Collaborate! Email:  cecimasonart@gmail.com 

 

🎀The YEAR OF THE "BOW"🎀
🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This link works now.
Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda
With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!
 
Ceci Mason's Art 
shop my art here
🌸🌸🌸
Follow Diga Linda on Instagram
Follow Diga Linda on Instagram
 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?
💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌
Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda
 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!
Blogs by Diga Linda
 
May 20, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Spring - The Botanical Garden Print

Spring - The Botanical Garden Print

Festive Spring Feast!

Here is some table inspiration for a memorable family meal. Each year I take the time to decorate for Easter and use our special wedding china for the table. The tableware with the floral details in the plates and hand painted custom tablecloth bring out the abundant beauty and eye-catching centerpiece where I got the opportunity to get creative by adding birds nests. Gold accents on flatware and floral straw chargers add a luxury charm, elevated by the personalization on the tablecloth with our family's last name. A few bunnies with bows, and tea jars with hydrangeas put the finishing touches on the affair sure to be remembered for years to come.

The Flowers are from The Fresh Market

 

Since this is the year of the"Bow", the bunnies are happy to comply by wearing some bows. The Botanical Garden Tablecloth adds all our favorite elements that we enjoy seeing such as the birds, flowers and of course bows.  Notice how the theme is all tied together, even the birds from the tablecloth connect to the birds nests on the centerpiece!

I took the time to personalize and add our last name to this tablecloth, this adds a special touch to any table. I design these for birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions.

 

The dishes are a great color collection inspired by the famous embroideries of the Castelo Branco region. First produced in the 17th century in the central Portugal town, rich embroideries are creafted in silk tread on linen using a unique slack stich. The Portuguese  artists take classic motifs and translate them into timeless and elegant dinnerware. are from Vista Alegre, a royal porcelan manufacturer of Portugal since 1824. Entrepreneur and visionary Joao Ferreira Pinto Basto founded the company and it's part of the Aveiro district.

The placemats are from Ballard Designs

Here you can see me paint the tablecloth print.

There are so many pretty blue and white details with a very light touch of yellow inside a few flowers giving it a delicate look.

 These are all the different ways that you can style your napkins. I designed the on purpose this way. I can call these tea towels as well since they come in a very large size of 22" X 22' made of 100% cotton.

Watch the video of the table HERE

🎀The YEAR OF THE "BOW"🎀

🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This link works now.

Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda

With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!

 

Ceci Mason's Art 

shop my art here

🌸🌸🌸

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?

💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌

Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda

 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!

Blogs by Diga Linda
Interviews by Ceci mason at Diga Linda

 

 Let's Collaborate! Inquire at cecimasonart@gmail.com

🌸 Thank you so much for reading and I want to invite you to subscribe to my newsletter on top of the page. You will get the "PARTY EVENT dinner planning guide" for Free in your inbox filled with tricks and tips on how to host at ease!

🌸 You can follow me on Instagram HERE

Looking forward to seeing your tablescape pictures, just tag me to make sure I see them, have a great day!

Ceci Mason artist and founder of Diga Linda

March 26, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Cherry Blossoms and Easy Roasted Portuguese Chicken

Easy Roasted Portuguese Chicken Recipe

Diga Linda logo by Ceci Mason
Hi Friends,

The Cherry Blossom Trees are starting to bloom over here and I always enjoy creating a table with a theme! There's plenty to decorate and celebrate with cherry blossoms and anytime you can add pink and flowers to your table, it becomes a memorable occasion, besides the Japanese festival Hina Matsuri (Girl's Day) is celebrated this Sunday March 3rd and that is another reason to celebrate!

"Cherry blossoms lovely pink hues represent a time of renewal, optimist, and surely are a beautiful spectacle to behold bringing us joy." C. Mason

 

Cherry Blossoms and Easy Roasted Portuguese Chicken

 

In the background you can see my recent tulip paintings!

Here is the recipe: Easy Portuguese Roasted Chicken Recipe

I say it's easy because you just put everything together in the oven at the same time.

Ingredients:

One cut up chicken or chicken pieces (about 6, I usually do thighs or leg quarters)

Ingredients:

One cut up chicken or chicken pieces (about 6, I usually do thighs or leg quarters)

4 garlic cloves, cut up

3 tablespoons of olive oil to drizzle

2 bay leaves cut in half

1 tablespoon of fresh oregano

3 tablespoons of paprika

2 pounds of potatoes cut up ( I like cutting up the small red ones in half)

1 green pepper and one yellow (sometimes I use a bad of frozen different color peppers)

1 can of crushed tomatoes (or you can use organic fresh tomatoes)

2 tablespoons of fresh parsley

1 yellow onion medium

4 or 5 carrots (or a bag of baby organic carrots)

salt and pepper to season

Put it all in a large oven pan, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes.

Then remove the foil and cook an extra 10 minutes to brown the chicken. 

Easy Portuguese Roasted Chicken

Easy Roasted Portuguese Chicken Recipe

This meal will feed a crowd, enjoy. If you make it please tag me if you post a picture, I would love to see it!

How about this darling tablescape? Did you notice my linens in there? The "Famille Rose' table runner and napkins goes so well with the cherry blossoms table.

Cherry Blossoms Tablescape

Famille Rose Diga Linda Linens

How darling is this print design for the spring? Painted entirely by hand, my designs and timeless and will never go out of style. 

Shop Famille Rose print by Diga Linda

🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This link works now.

Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda

With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!

 

Ceci Mason's Art 

shop my art here

🌸🌸🌸

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?

💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌

Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda

 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!

Blogs by Diga Linda
Interviews by Ceci mason at Diga Linda

Do you have any ideas, what is your favorite thing to do on Valentine's | Galentine's Day? Please share in comments below, I would love to know.

🌸 Thank you so much for reading and I want to invite you to subscribe to my newsletter on top of the page. You will get the "PARTY EVENT dinner planning guide" for Free in your inbox filled with tricks and tips on how to host at ease!

🌸 You can follow me on Instagram HERE

Looking forward to seeing your tablescape pictures, just tag me to make sure I see them, have a great day!

 

Ceci Mason artist and founder of Diga Linda 

 

 

 

February 26, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
How to style a hutch with Bordallo Pinheiro Dishes by  Ceci Mason

How to style a hutch and Portuguese Cinnamon Bread Recipe

How to style a dining room hutch 

Styling a hutch is an opportunity for you to showcase your vintage or new collections of your decor. I use mine in the dining room to display my favorite dishes and I alternate them with the season. You will even have more storage once you display your beauties, so get them out showcase them and use them.

However a big hutch with several empty selves can be daunting. I place the larger plates on the top then go down the shelves with smaller plates for an eclectic look. Then I place the smaller vases and candlesticks on the sides and always add fresh flowers for the final touch. I find that it makes such a lovely addition completing the look. I also added my napkin print design called "Linda's Garden" I have some othe products with this design and you will love it! You can see the video down the blog and follow me along for more tips.

How to style a hutch by Diga Linda Ceci Mason

Portuguese Country Cinnamon Swirl Bread Recipe

This bread makes the house smell so good. This is my fast version of "Folar" a traditional cake we have in Portugal for Easter. You can make extra and give as gifts. Everyone will love it. Mix everything and Voilá!

Ingredients

2 cups of flour

1 cup of sugar

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon of baking soda

2 small eggs

1 cup of sour cream 

8 Tablespoons of butter melted warm not hot

1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

1/3 of sugar

Combine the first 5 dry ingredients, mix well then add eggs, sour cream and butter and mix until its all blended.

In a small bowl mix together the last two ingredients (cinnamon and sugar).

Spray a 8"x4" inch loaf pan ( I use glass). Pour a third of the batter into the pan then sprinkle a third of the cinnamon/sugar mixture.

Repeat that two more times and put the rest of the cinnamon/sugar mixture on top. Bake at 350 degrees for about 55 minutes at 350 or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for about 8 minutes before flipping. Enjoy.

 

Layer the mixture

 

Sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon and sugar mixture

Turn it upside down

 

You can do this process in a different platter so it does not leave crumbs on the dish that you are serving this on.

Then flip it again, I have to say that this cake disappears so fast out from my kitchen!

Yummy!! Final result, enjoy!

(fun fact, I was a baker when I was single in Portugal)

Happy cooking and Baking!!😄

How pretty is this "Linda's Garden" design print? Just so perfect for Spring!

Linda's Garden Table Runner by Diga Linda

Shop the Linda's Garden print button by Diga Linda

 Linda's Garden print napkins by Diga Linda

Check out all the other times that I offer with this darling print.

Watch me style my hutch here.

 How to style a hutch by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda

🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This links works now.

Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda

 

With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!

 

Painting Grace by Ceci Mason

shop my art here

🌸🌸🌸

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?

💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌

Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda

 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!

Blogs by Diga Linda
Interviews by Ceci mason at Diga Linda

 

🌸 Thank you so much for reading and I want to invite you to subscribe to my newsletter on top of the page. You will get the "PARTY EVENT dinner planning guide" for Free in your inbox filled with tricks and tips on how to host at ease!

🌸 You can follow me on Instagram HERE

Looking forward to seeing your tablescape pictures, just tag me to make sure I see them, have a great day!

Ceci Mason artist and founder of Diga Linda

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(fun fact, I was a baker when I was single in Portugal)

Happy cooking and Baking!!😄

😍 By leaving a comment, you are supporting my small business.

😍 Thank you so much for reading and I want to invite you to subscribe to my newsletter on top of the page for the latest and the greatest news.

You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook and more social channels when you click ➡️     https://linktr.ee/cecimasonart

xo Ceci Mason founder and artist

 Diga Linda  Say Beautiful

February 20, 2024 — Cecilia Mason
Love your stove! More room, more to style!

Love your stove! More room, more to style!

Hi friends!

Ever since I got my new stove top, I have been asked where I got it and all the details about it!

I have to say that I was fortunate to find someone who actually builds these from scratch and although my stove is a standard size, I was able to customize the color and that made my day!

I not only can have more room in my kitchen to display my home decor, but the stove is an ideal place for me to display the tea towels that I hand illustrate/paint and sell on my booth and online on my website!

Therefore whenever I am advertising a new design and I style it on my stove, people ask me about it, so I decided to do a blog on it. If you can please comment on it (by clicking on the blog you will see an area to comment)!

The color of my stove top goes with my kitchen home decor and when I have people visiting (mostly on the weekends), I flip the tray upside down and use it as a charcuterie board! It's big and it fits beautifully on top of my island! 

It makes me feel like I have a really cleaned and organized kitchen displaying my Royal Chinoiserie Tea Towel on the stove handle and when I display the tray on top of the stove, and it's truly a statement piece, I am absolutely in love with  it!  

😍 Ways you can help my small business - Please leave a comment, I appreciate your support xo Ceci Mason

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I don't make or sell these, but HERE is the link where you can buy it! Please let me know if you have any questions, I hope this helps you get yours in the color that you like!

Royal Chinoiserie blue and white tea towel

 

Stove top with Diga Linda Napkins

Stove top with Diga Linda Napkins

Stove top with Diga Linda Napkins

Stove top with Diga Linda Napkins

 

Stove top with Diga Linda Napkins

 

Stove top tray

 

I styled it with my "Vincentina Coast " napkins here but you can use a tea towel as well!

We were having friends over for burgers and I just placed everything on the tray before taking it outdoors. If you are interested in seeing any other tea towels, please go HERE

To read more fun blogs go HERE!

xo Ceci, artist and founder of Diga Linda

VALENTINE'S | GALENTINE'S FLORAL CRAFT ALRESCO

VALENTINE'S | GALENTINE'S FLORAL CRAFT ALRESCO

This Valentine's is fast approaching and I would like to share a darling craft with you. I used the Blue Hydrangeas tablecloth for this project and the pink hydrangeas go here perfectly!

Start by getting some wine glasses (you can find them at the dollar store along with the doilies), turn one upside down and draw a circle around it. Then cut out the paper circle, draw a heart and place it inside the wine glass. All you have to do is insert the flowers inside and style them on top of the table, enjoy! 

 

floral craft alfresco by Diga Linda

 "Just living is not enough...one much have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower."

~ Hans Christian Andersen

 

Hydrangeas Floral Craft Alfresco by Diga Linda

FLORAL ABUNDANCE IN MY GARDEN

In early Spring a profusion of hydrangea blossoms in lilac and pink start to form! 

 

Hydrangeas Floral Craft Alfresco by Diga Linda

 Gather some flowers from your garden.

Hydrangeas Floral Craft Alfresco by Diga Linda

Fill a basket with fresh-cut stems to adorn your tablescape and gift friends the wine glass with the blooms at the end of the lunch so they can take it home.

Hydrangeas Floral Craft Alfresco by Diga Linda

How darling is that look? Your guests will be delighted, they will love these floral beauties!

Hydrangeas Floral Craft Alfresco by Diga Linda

 TIP FOR FLOWERS TO LAST LONGER

If you add one tablespoon of bleach and one tablespoon of sugar your flowers will last almost one month as long as they are in room temperature (on the cool side) and to ensure that, change the water and clip the ends diagonally.

doily with a heart

You can draw hearts for Valentines on the doilies. For St. Patricks you can put a little clover in there etc, love this so much! This idea is perfect for indoors or outdoors.

Hydrangeas Floral craft alfresco by Diga Linda

When Mother Nature blesses you with an overabundance of beautiful flowers, I make a list of who will be getting these delightful blooms before they get spots on them! If I keep cutting them, they will keep on blooming until November!

Hydrangeas Floral craft alfresco by Diga Linda

You can find peace in flowers with these soothing and tranquil colors, such as blues, lavenders and pale pinks that you see here. Flowers are also symbols of friendship, love and affection. Just by looking at them, one feels joy and more relaxed.

Hydrangeas Floral craft alfresco by Diga Linda

My pup Chloe sometimes pops up in my pictures, lol!

How pretty is this "Blue Hydrangeas" tablecloth that I painted entirely by hand? Click the button below to see tablecloths and table runners in the store.

SHOP DIGA LINDA STORE

Today I did a fabulous collaboration with some friends and we had an amazing guest "The Flower Magazine" click the picture to see it!

Hydrangeas Floral craft alfresco by Diga Linda

Below are the friends that joined me today and of course our guest on Valentine's Eve. "The Flower Magazine!"

🌸🌸🌸 Today I’ve joined a few talented friends for #tablesharetuesday AND we have an awesome guest! 🌸 Please visit their feeds below to see all of their beautiful tables:

@addictedtochina @alovedhomecerved @bonniechasedesigns @craftingculture @diga_linda @tablescapebycharm @theblueleopardvintage 🌸 Guest host: @flowermagazine 

Hydrangeas make people happy, lifts up their spirits and express sentiments of gratitude. Read about the symbolism of hydrangeas HERE.

🎀 Also remember to get your FREE gift! This link works now.

Rose Bows Instant download by Diga Linda

 

With the Bible verse 1 Corinthians !3:"13 GO  HERE! It's a darling iPhone wallpaper download filled with bows and love!

 

Painting Grace by Ceci Mason

shop my art here

🌸🌸🌸

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

Follow Diga Linda on Instagram

 Also are you planning a party, birthday, dinner or just a gathering?

💌"I just released the FREE "PARTY EVENT DINNER PLANNING GUIDE!" Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get this free set in your email inbox. Just click on it and subscribe! 💌

Party Event Dinner Planning Guide by Ceci Mason at Diga Linda

 🌸 Thrilled to have Tea Time Magazine feature one of my photos yesterday on their Instagram! To read more fun E- Newsletters (blogs) go HERE! OR click picture below!

Blogs by Diga Linda
Interviews by Ceci mason at Diga Linda

Do you have any ideas, what is your favorite thing to do on Valentine's | Galentine's Day? Please share in comments below, I would love to know.

🌸 Thank you so much for reading and I want to invite you to subscribe to my newsletter on top of the page. You will get the "PARTY EVENT dinner planning guide" for Free in your inbox filled with tricks and tips on how to host at ease!

🌸 You can follow me on Instagram HERE

Looking forward to seeing your tablescape pictures, just tag me to make sure I see them, have a great day!

Ceci Mason artist and founder of Diga Linda

 

 

February 12, 2024 — Cecilia Mason