Here.

Today debuts a new regular feature here at the Soapbox – Chicken Coops. Yes, seems to be a mundane topic at first glance. But I assure you inspiration.

The lowly chicken. Even (s)he must have a home.

As the Manager and the Mrs. contemplate a scenario whereby they would be required to shelter two or possibly three hens the inevitable order of things dictates that the search for a proper chicken coop would be imminent. This is to be one of the first things to do when considering to host avians on the property at Carlisle house – or not to. How much space will a coop require, where to put it and how will the structure coordinate with the existing grounds? All very important ideas indeed. The coop must not be rickety-rack. No, the hens must be well taken care of. Only the best eggs will do after all. That is why one gets chickens is it not – for good eggs?

Today’s coop is the elegant and traditional Alexandria from Williams and Sonoma with a run. A fine piece of work.

Reason One: Lined suit jackets and sports coats are assembled and sewn together from separate pieces with the pockets being among some the first of the pieces sewn in place. To make the assembly easier the tailor will “baste” the exterior pockets shut with thread to keep both the pockets and the material flat while the rest of the suit jacket is being stitched together.

Reason Two: The basting keeps the jacket looking nice while the jacket is at a shop waiting to find it’s owner.

Note: Once the jacket is purchased, the basting should be removed. The easiest way to have that done is to ask the store where you are purchasing the jacket do it for you. Most large department stores have in house tailors that can quickly rip out the basting stitches.

Pocket squares – an essential detail that does not need to be essentially expensive anymore. Call me frugal or call me innovative; whatever. I have taken it upon myself to construct my own. Reversible none-the-less and for the cost of about 2 dollars each, or one dollar per side. Custom matched to my shirts, ties or jackets. Round one, seen above, was a test to observe the resulting quality. Round two should be just around the corner as these little buddies came out just fine and I am sure I spied at least two who appreciate such things appreciating.

The first harvest of early spring from the garden at Carlisle house.

Hoooooo.....

For your reading pleasure…

Sante Fe, New Mexico 44/8/2012 You can visit him online here.

Thomas Jefferson: born April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. Draftsman of the Declaration of Independence of the United States, first secretary of state (1789-1794), second vice president (1797-1801 and as third president of the United States (1801-1809) the statesman responsible for the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson died in his bed at Monticello on July 4, 1826. The same day as John Adams.

Personally, I am smitten – 90% of the time.

All jokes aside, the last couple of years, the Manager has had a minor battle with moths in his closet. And this is no laughing matter. For a minor issue can be extremely annoying, frustrating and potentially very expensive. Luckily, the damage so far has been minor and of little consequence. The solution last year, which so far has proven effective, in combination with cedar chips was in the way of the traditional mothballs of which The Mrs. did not find the odor pleasing. This year, in order to maintain the generally congenial and loving relationship with The Mrs. the Manager has selected an alternative attack. The recipe is as follows;

Lavender Buds
Lemon peel, crushed
Cloves, crushed 
Mint
Tansy

Mix these ingredients in equal parts and then fill and tie satchels. Place the satchels in an area where moths are not desired. Periodically scrunch the satchels to release additional aroma. Once satchels cease to release aroma, replace.  Periodically scrunch the Mrs.. Repeat.