Rambling from the Roost: Volume 21

Welcome to Rambling from the Roost, Volume 21! As we settle into the new year, I’m excited to share everything from my nest to yours. Today, we’re diving into selecting the perfect paint colors to transform your space, a few delicious recipes I’ve whipped up to kick off the year, and some of my favorite Valentine’s Day décor that brings a touch of love to every corner. Plus, there’s a bit more sprinkled in—so grab a cozy cup of tea, and let’s get to rambling!

three candles on table with pink floral arrangement

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Last week I shared with you that I am in the process of selecting a new color for my great room and kitchen. I have an open floor plan, so one will flow into the other.

I met with a color expert at my local Benjamin Moore store, who confirmed my choices. I came home with three samples. The first, is Simply White, the second, is Swiss Coffee, and the third is White Dove. Stay tuned to see what I pick!

Tip: Benjamin Moore offers two free paint samples on Fridays, so be sure to check it out if you are undecided on a color.

Here are a few tips I considered!

3 Tips for Selecting the Right White Paint Color

Simply White

Consider Your Lighting: Before committing to a color, observe how it looks in different lighting throughout the day. Natural light can dramatically change the tone of paint color, especially in a home with tall ceilings like mine. Benjamin Moore’s Simply White is a bright, clean choice that works beautifully with natural and artificial light, but test a sample in each room to ensure it complements your unique space.

Pair It With Your Décor: Since I’ll still be showcasing my stunning vintage treasures, I want to make sure my paint choice enhances them. A soft, bright white like Simply White offers a clean and timeless backdrop that allows your décor to truly shine. Its lack of grey or tan undertones keeps it fresh, ensuring your pieces remain the stars of the show.

Take Your Time and Test: Painting a home with 10-foot ceilings is a project, so there’s no rush! Use large sample boards or paint swatches on multiple walls to see how the color reads in different spaces. This will help confirm your choice and allow you to envision how the finished result will feel in your home.

Swiss Coffee

Swiss Coffee is a versatile paint color that beautifully bridges transitional and modern design styles. Its creamy, soft white tone adds warmth without overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for creating harmony in your space.

For transitional décor, pair Swiss Coffee with textured neutral elements like linen or jute, warm wood tones, and classic silhouettes to maintain its timeless appeal. Add touches of metallics like brushed brass or antique bronze to elevate the look while staying elegant and refined.
For modern décor, Swiss Coffee provides a perfect neutral backdrop for sleek furniture with clean lines, bold black accents, and pops of color in artwork or throw pillows. Its subtle warmth softens the starkness often found in modern designs, creating a cozy yet sophisticated feel.

White Dove

White Dove is a soft, versatile white with a hint of warmth, making it an exceptional choice for various décor styles. Its subtle undertones provide enough depth to feel inviting while maintaining a crisp, clean look.

For Traditional Décor: White Dove pairs beautifully with classic furniture, rich wood tones, and traditional patterns like florals or damask. Its warm undertone complements ornate moldings and trim, highlighting architectural details without feeling stark.
For Transitional Décor: This color creates a balanced backdrop for blending traditional and contemporary elements. Combine timeless furniture shapes with modern accents like metallic light fixtures or graphic rugs to let the warm white enhance the cohesion of the mix.
For Modern Décor: White Dove’s softness prevents minimalistic spaces from feeling cold. Pair it with sleek furniture, matte black accents, and bold geometric shapes. Its warmth keeps modern interiors approachable and inviting.
For Farmhouse Décor: White Dove fits seamlessly with the cozy, rustic charm of farmhouse style. Layer it with shiplap walls, distressed wood finishes, and vintage-inspired textiles for a look that feels timeless and fresh.

No matter your style, White Dove’s versatility ensures it complements your décor while adding an airy, light-filled ambiance to your home.

Recipes to Brighten Your Winter Days

Now on to some tasty recipe ideas to warm your pallet and give your winter meals some zest! I’ve included two recipes from the Roost this past week.

flo blue antique dish with rocky road shortbread cookies on it

Rocky Road Shortbread: A Crunchy, Irresistible Treat

If you’re looking for a sweet treat with a delightful crunch, my Rocky Road Shortbread is a must-try! This recipe combines the buttery richness of classic shortbread with the indulgent mix of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts for a crunchy twist that takes it to the next level. They were so good, they didn’t last long in my house—perfect for sharing (or not)!

What you will need:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup walnuts, chopped finely
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick)
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup mini marshmallows
1/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts ( I used Brazil nuts since they are high in selenium which is good for my Hashimoto’s
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to make:

Heat over to 350 degrees
Coat the baking sheet, and set aside.
Blend flour, nuts, and salt in a bowl.
In the second bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and vanilla for approximately 2 minutes, until creamy.
Stir in the flour mixture.
Roll 1 tablespoon of dough into a ball and place on a baking sheet. Repeat.
Gently flatten the dough to 1/2 inches thick.
Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes

Meanwhile, stir together the marshmallows and chopped nuts mixture. Melt semi-sweet chocolate in another bowl. You can use the microwave, for one minute, stirring halfway through. This method hasn’t been as successful for me so I opt for a double boiler on the stovetop to melt my chocolate. These are delicious. Let me know if you make them at home. I’d love to know what you think!

overhead view of citrus salad with vintage dishes and teacups

The Perfect Olio: A Citrus Delight for Winter

My next recipe is one you won’t want to miss. All I can say is that my husband declared it has the perfect olio. I’ll let that sink in—perfect. Olio. With a bright hint of citrus, it’s the perfect way to add a little sunshine to these winter days. You’re going to love it!

Ingredients you’ll need:

2 Tangerines
2 tsp Cider Vinegar
½ tsp Dijon Mustard
Salt/Black Pepper to taste
2 tbsp Olive oil ( I used a bit more)
1 tbsp Fresh Chives
8 cups Baby Greens
½ cup Goat Cheese
½ cup Golden Raisins

Instructions for Mixed Greens with Goat Cheese & Tangerine Vinaigrette

Grate 1 tsp tangerine peel ( I used clementine’s )
Peel fruit removing each segment and membrane
Squeeze a few to get the juice into the bowl, set aside a few segments for the salad
Add 3 tablespoons of juice to the bowl with the peel.
Whisk in vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, oil, stir in tangerine segment and chives, sprinkle in golden raisins
Plate onto salad dish or bowl, top with crumbles of goat cheese. Enjoy!

pale pink bouquet on table with mixed green salad on table

7 Top Valentine’s Décor and Gift Ideas I love

Vintage-Inspired Heart Garlands – Add a charming touch to your home with paper or fabric garlands featuring hearts in soft pinks and reds. Perfect for draping across mantels or shelves.
Romantic Candle Holders – Opt for delicate glass or vintage brass candle holders paired with soft pink or ivory candles to set a cozy, romantic mood. I’m loving these!!
Pressed Flower Art – Give a thoughtful and unique gift by framing pressed flowers in a vintage-style frame. It’s a beautiful, lasting gesture of love.
Rose-Adorned Wreaths – Decorate your front door or an interior wall with a wreath made of faux or dried roses. Choose soft hues for an elegant look or vibrant reds for a classic Valentine’s feel.
Handmade Love Notes – Place handwritten notes of love or encouragement in antique trinket boxes or under a glass cloche for a personal and heartfelt gift.
Heart-Shaped Pizzelle or Cookies – Bake your signature pizzelle in a heart shape and package them in decorative tins or boxes tied with red satin ribbon. A sweet treat made with love!
Cobalt Blue Accents – If your loved one adores cobalt blue (like my daughter-in-law does!), consider gifting a beautiful piece of stemware or a decorative vase to show your appreciation with a pop of bold color.
Heart-Shaped Puzzles – A heart-shaped puzzle makes a great Valentine’s gift because it’s a thoughtful, interactive way to share love and create meaningful moments together.