Recipe Box Makeover

While in Pella, I learned many a tid-bit from Troy's step-mother.  She is very neat and organized and has a trick or helpful hint to nearly everything in life.  I wish she would write them all down for me.  Needless to say, it wasn't in line with her character to have such a 'full' recipe box, but I came to learn and appreciate how much she cherished the handwritten cards from her mother and therefore kept the older, dated, small 3x5 wooden box.  I realized, I wanted an heirloom like this and that I could get one started.  It was already on my list to work with Alyssa to create 30 recipes for her by the time she leaves for college, so that at least she knew how to prepare 30 meals.  I went to the two antique shops in town (Windmill Mall & Funky Junque) and picked up three wooden boxes.

I began with a plain wood box, 4x6 size, and decided to make it a wedding gift for Amelia Cannon.  I would partner it with my favorite measuring spoons, create a Recipe for Marriage, order recipe dividers, and recipe cards so she could begin collecting handwritten recipes from her oldest living relatives straight away.   Here is the end result. 

 Before I left Pella, we asked Mike and Cindy to write down some recipes.  We have more relatives to send cards to now to get their handwritten gems recorded too! 

Now, I will start my own box.  Here is how I picked it up and it will be a shame to lose this pretty paint job, but I want to create my own look.  Next I will ask Troy to help me by sanding and painting again.  Then, I can add brown/black paint to age the corners. Stay tuned.... 

Thank you Cindy for inspiring me and helping me to create an appreciation for this treasured heirloom.