The Second Twin Sews

Dilly Rolls

2012-01-28T17:19:00.001-06:00

We are going to a soup and bread gathering tonight.

My sister suggested I bring Dilly Rolls.

She isn't even going....

so these photos are to make her regret staying home tonight. :)

I cut this well loved recipe out of a Taste Of Home Magazine many years ago.

I thought I had shared it on this blog, but if I did, I couldn't find it.

So I will share it now.

Dilly Rolls

2 cups (16 ounces) small curd cottage cheese

2 Tablespoons butter

2 packages active dry yeast

1/2 cup warm water

2 eggs

1/4 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons dried minced onion

1 to 2 Tablespoons dill weed

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

4 1/2 to 5 cups all- purpose flour (I use bread four)

In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook cottage cheese and butter until butter is melted. Cold to 110 to 115 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add eggs, sugar, onion, dill, salt, baking soda and cottage cheese mixture. Add 3 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured board; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Form into 24 balls; place in a greased 9x13 baking pan that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Yield: 2 dozen.

I actually just toss everything in my KitchenAid mixer and use the dough hook....huge time saver!

This IS My Year!!!

2012-01-24T21:54:00.000-06:00

I have the needles.

I have the yarn.

I have the books.

I have no excuse!

This is my year....

and this is my "accountability post".

(We will see if this helps)

Say That Three Times Fast

2012-01-22T20:16:00.000-06:00

Sheila spent six sick days in Scottsdale.

That about sums it up....

(Drawing made by Emily 9 years ago.)

Some things you just never get 'sick' of. :)

It is good to be home.

Snow

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Seriously,

I thought this is would be the most snow we would see all winter!

We are getting some snow....and wind....and cold...

but since I am on my way to Arizona...

who cares!!!!!

Traveling with friends.

Guys are running the P.F. Chang Half Marathon on Sunday.

Girls are just gonna have fun!!!!!

The Old Cradle

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

In 1888 Media Dorothea Seline was born.

She was my Great-Grandmother.

She was called Thea.

She had a sister named Emily.

Thea and Emily each had a china doll and a cradle.

One china doll sits in my curio cabinet,

waiting to be passed on to the next generation.

The cradle was not given such care.

My Grandma played with it.

My Mother played with it.

My sisters and I played with it.

My girls weren't impressed with it.

I am not sure how many colors of paint has covered it over the years, but the nails were rusting and the paint (most likely lead) was chipping.

I decided to resurrect it.

It was made from an old fruit crate.

It has been many colors over the generations.

The crude workmanship has held up quite well.

One end has been broken.

I had some fun vintage fabric, so I sewed up a little cushion for the bottom.

And of course I couldn't resist this wooden mobile that I found at the Goodwill.

And because the latest generation is more into bears than dolls....

(I didn't get a very accurate picture of the color....one was in the sunshine and the other at night under the light)

~~~~~~

I have a confession.

I had no idea Great-Grandma's name was Media until yesterday!

I feel rather sheepish about not knowing.

My Grandma emailed me the information when I asked if she knew any history about the cradle.

This was my reply,

"I never knew her name was Media! ....not that I would have named either of my daughters that." ;)

(I do have an Emily, however)!

Great Grandpa's Quilt

2012-01-10T09:24:00.000-06:00

Great Grandpa Ed lived a long life.

I remember him.

Old and kind,

but sort of scary.

Grandpa lost an eye in his younger days.

I think that is what made him seem kind of scary.

Grandpa loved farming.

He was known to head to 'Dakota' to help with harvest.

He took a heavy old quilt to keep him warm.

That quilt saw many, many years.

Now it lives on in squares....

one with each of Grandpa Ed's Great-Grandchildren.

I filled them with crushed walnut shells.

I am using mine as a pin cushion.

Not all of Grandpa's 20 Great Grandchildren even knew him,

but I made them a square anyway.

50% of the quilt had unrepairable holes...

not bad for a 100 year old quilt!

Great Grandpa Ed looking less 'scary' with his glass eye. :)

Beans and Cornbread

2012-01-09T11:33:00.000-06:00

Simple Sunday night supper.

I mixed up these beans after dinner and let them bake all afternoon at 300 degrees.

Then right before my sister and her family came, I mixed up some cornbread.

Pretty simple.

1 pound of bacon cut and fried....

Add a little onion at the end of frying,

Stir in:

1 pound precooked baby lima beans,

1/4 cup white vinegar

3/4 cup ketchup

1 1/4 cup brown sugar

Use It Or Lose It

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

I have had a cough for way too long.

This past week I added a cold along with it.

It was the motivator I needed to mix up a batch of honey and lemon to add to some tea.

I don't usually drink tea.

I have decided that I will either start using most of the things I have taking up space around my house.....

or I will be getting rid of it.

Like the dishes in my hutch.

I use the coffee mugs all the time,

but it was seriously the first time in all these years that I have used a tea cup.

I may have to take up drinking tea....

because I don't think I am ready to part with these yet.

The Rhythm Of Routine

2012-01-05T12:32:00.000-06:00

Christmas is wonderful.

I love every minute.

But there is just something about getting back into the routine of of life.

(More popularly called "rhythm" right now)

So today I will stay home and work on my "rhythm". :)

Why Santa Appeared

2012-01-02T13:06:00.000-06:00

We celebrate Christmas.

We decorate a tree.

We give gifts.

We hang stockings.

'Santa' leaves something practical in them.

We have always been honest when our kids got to the age where they asked if Santa really lives in the North Pole, has flying reindeer and elves and comes down our chimney with gifts.

We will do the same with our Grandchildren.

But for now, we will just smile and pack away the Santa suit and see what happens next year.

Friendie had no idea that was his Grampie behind those glasses and tacky beard.

And why would his Grampie have a Santa suit?

Because his good friend purchased two of them for their Christmas Eve morning run!

They ran 6 miles in full costume!

They did need to stop at the hospital admissions desk though....

skinny Santa needed a pin to hold his pants up!!!

And that is why Santa appeared at our house this year.

Welcome

2012-01-01T13:09:00.001-06:00

Welcome New Year!

My husband turned 48 yesterday.

I am not far behind.

It sounds old.

Good thing we don't act our age!

We had a 'brown' Christmas....and now we are getting snow....and severe winds....sure hope our typical 5 months of snow isn't going to begin now!

This is the holly bush I planted this past year.

All year I anticipated using it to decorate for Christmas.

Because of the lack of fall moisture, every other leaf was crunchy and only two dried up red berries remained.

I cut some anyway.

As the wind whips off our lake and the storm windows rattle, I am grateful for a warm home and family tucked together inside.

And I am grateful for a New Year.

Finally

2011-12-30T19:11:00.002-06:00

We finally got some snow cover.

Too bad Friendie and Grammie have colds....

or we would be out doing this!

Missing Minnesota Boy

2011-12-28T13:31:00.001-06:00

One son didn't get to come home for Christmas.

He moved to CO this past summer.

He is working 3 part time jobs (although teaching snowboarding doesn't really seem like work).

Back in October, when I went to my Quilt Retreat, I stopped at our local quilt shop before leaving town.

I spotted a quilt made up by a local quilter using 2011 Minnesota fabrics.

I decided it would make a great quilt for my Minnesota Boy.

So I made it for him for Christmas.

I sent it to him and he opened it on Christmas eve.

He was all alone...with the cats...and sounded pretty lonesome.

I am sure he (and the cats) enjoyed wrapping up in his Minkee backed quilt.

Jill Fischer designed this quilt pattern.

She also machine quilted it for me.

She does lovely work.

(When her website is up again, I will share her link)

I ~~made~~ asked her to pose for a photo...

and sign my pattern. :)

I added a large border so it would fit my 6'2 Minnesota Boy.

And in case you are wondering why I call him my Minnesota Boy....

one summer, while on a road trip with his cousin, he came home with this...

on his thigh!

Yes...it really is that large....

kids now days....

gotta love em!

Meet My Family

2011-12-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

My family in 2011.

You never know what a new year will bring!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:48:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

The house is back in order after last evenings festivities....

and now we are heading North to celebrate with our married son and his wife!

Let us all remember the reason for this Christmas season!

Yarn Along

2011-12-21T10:37:00.000-06:00

I am finally able to join with Ginny in the Yarn Along today.

These little gifts are on their way to two little sweeties.

The leg warmers were just a random 30 stitch K2 P2 pattern.

The little booties are a free pattern that I got here.

Both simple....

and simple is good!

I am so enjoying this little book, Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young.

I hope Sarah wont mind me sharing just one page from her book.

December 21

My plan for your life is unfolding before you. Sometimes the road you are traveling seems blocked, or it opens up so painfully slowly that you must hold yourself back. Then, when time is right, the way before you suddenly clears--through no effort of your own. What you have longed for and worked for I present to you freely, as pure gift. You feel awed by the ease with which I operate in the world, and you glimpse My Power and My Glory.

Do not fear your weakness, for it is the stage on which My Power and Glory perform most brilliantly. As you persevere along the path I have prepared for you, depending on My strength to sustain you, expect to see miracles--and you will. Miracles are not always visible to the naked eye, but those who live by faith can see them clearly. Living by faith, rather than sight, enables you to see My Glory.

Psalm 63:2; 2 Corinthians 5:7; John 11:40

Merry Christmas Friends!

Counting Down The Days

2011-12-19T10:49:00.002-06:00

Yes my friends, this is Christmas week!

We have been enjoying some concerts, plays and gatherings of friends and family.

I have been finishing up some gifts.

I haven't made one. single. sweet. ....yet. Emily and I will do that once her school break begins.

Are you ready?

Preparations

2011-12-15T10:33:00.002-06:00

We are in the middle of Christmas preparations.

I am loving every minute of it.

Even if neither of my boys will be home for Christmas this year.

(boo hoo)

Mice, Stockings and Mom and Dad

2011-12-11T14:09:00.001-06:00

My daughter called with some bad news.

Mice had found their way into her Christmas decorations.

It appears they have been living there for a long time.

Every thing that was fabric was chewed up,

and everything that wasn't fabric had "moisture" damage.

Dad immediately got on the internet and researched the best way to take care of the rodent issue.

He has been quite successful.

A snowman runner that I had made her the Christmas we weren't together was ruined....

so were their Christmas stockings.

Even though I still have the pattern for that snowman runner....

I made 5 of them....

total burn out!

I knew I could replace their Christmas stockings pretty easily.

So yesterday I came up with these.

They are reversible.

She didn't think she wanted names on them,

but I can still add them if she changes her mind.

Take that you nasty mice!!!!

The Second Week

2011-12-08T13:17:00.001-06:00

Once I have lit the second candle of our Advent wreath, I know it is time to get the Christmas cards in the mail.

The photo is ready.

The letter is written.

The envelopes are still blank.

Good thing there are two more days before we light the next candle!

I have 3 quilts that need binding.

I just have to make myself work on them.

Tonight a few friends are coming over to work on Christmas projects.

Tonight the binding will be pleasant. :)

Shout Out For Old Gate's Farm!

2011-12-07T19:13:00.001-06:00

I really like homemade soap.

I like it a lot.

My supply was getting low.

Very low.

Three nights ago I decided to order some soap.

I follow the Old Gate's Farm blog.

They make and sell soap.

The rustic look sucked me in. :)

It was my very first Esty experience.

Total rookie!

I placed an order.

I wanted two of each soap.

I only ordered one.

I sent an email to Kris.

She set up an Etsy special order listing for me.

Not only did she adjust the shipping, but she must have packaged my order and mailed it at dawn's first light!!! :)

Three nights ago I ordered soap.

Now that is customer service!!!!

Its not too late to get some stocking stuffers my friends!

Doodle Stitching 17 Cents

2011-12-07T08:50:00.001-06:00

On Black Friday I did a little gift exploration on Amazon.com.

I was watching a couple of the Lightning Specials, put them in my Cart, but ended up removing them before the 20 minute purchase time was up.

A few days later I received an email from Amazon.

Because of a glitch in the system, some Black Friday shoppers were unable to purchase the Lightning Specials they had in their Cart.

Because I had moved a couple items into my Cart, the computer must have decided I was entitled to their "Glitch" apology.

Amazon put $10 in my account!

I had 5 days to use it.

It had to be used on an item that is distributed by Amazon.com.

I knew what I wanted.

It cost $10.17.....

so my part was the 17 cents!

Merry Christmas to me!!!!

Soup's On

2011-12-05T19:53:00.001-06:00

I had some ground beef....

and it felt like a soup day.

I dug out a new recipe.

I thought it was tasty...

so I will pass the recipe on to you!

Spicy Potato Soup

1 pound ground beef

4 cups cubed peeled potatoes

1 small onion, chopped

3 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce

4 cups water

2 teaspoons salt

1-1/2 teaspoons pepper

1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

In a large Dutch oven or soup kettle, brown ground beef; drain. Add potatoes, onion and tomato sauce. Stir in water, salt, pepper and hot pepper sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened.

Yield: 6-8 serves (2 quarts).

In Others' Words

2011-12-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

Enthusiasm is easier than obedience.

~Michael Griffith~

Hot Water Drinks

2011-12-03T15:20:00.001-06:00

Today was a good day to mix up our winter supply of hot water drinks.

My husband likes his "Russian" Tea.

The rest of us like Hot Cocoa.

Both are good for warming you up on a chilly day!

Hot Cocoa Mix

2 1/2 cups powdered milk

2 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons corn starch

1 cup cocoa powder

I fill the cup about a quarter to a third full of dry mix and then add boiling water.

Don't forget to top it off with marshmallows!

Russian Tea

Equal parts Tang (an instant orange flavored breakfast drink in powdered form) and lemon flavored ice tea mix

I just guess on the spices....sorry I can't be more specific.

Cinnamon

Allspice

Cloves

The gallon container I filled had 2 1/2 teaspoons of the allspice and cloves and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon.

He uses a cinnamon stick to stir it and that gives the drink even more cinnamon flavor.

Handel Messiah

2011-12-02T16:54:00.001-06:00

What makes choir boys so happy?

Listening to Handel's Messiah.....

found today in MINT CONDITION at a brief stop at the thrift store!

I don't want to boast about the cost....

but the loose change in my car's cup holder covered it.

Now I wish I had my music score from days gone by.....

I could sing along!

(When no one is listening)

Coconut Obsession

2011-12-01T11:00:00.001-06:00

We woke up to a light dusting of snow.

It made me think of the large bag of fluffy white coconut sitting on my table.

The coconut that did NOT get used yesterday because the Nutty Apple Muffins did NOT get made during nap time. :(

Christmas decorating without my 'helper' took priority.

So today I am in the mood for coconut and chocolate!

After totally tearing apart my not so organized recipe cupboard....

I found it!

Quick

Easy

Yummy

No Bake Fudgy Oat Cookies

2 1/4 cups quick cooking oats

1 cup flaked coconut

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup butter

2 cups sugar

1/2 cup baking cocoa

1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine oats and coconut - set aside.

In a saucepan, combine milk and butter. Stir in sugar and cocoa; bring to a boil. Add oat mixture, stirring constantly; cook for 1 min. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.

Drop by rounded Tablespoon onto wax paper.

Yield about 3 dozen.

I will continue to be obsessed with that bag of coconut, so I might as well get this over with ;)

What's Baking?

2011-11-30T11:34:00.001-06:00

Just taking a break from my Christmas decorating to share the recipe that I am going to be making during Friendie's nap today.

I couldn't resist a box of assorted vintage Christmas cards, so today I am sharing this little cutie:

A recipe for a very Merry Christmas:

Take a heaping measure of happiness

and add a cup of good cheer

Then season with spice for a day that's extra-nice

To remember all through the year.

Nutty Apple Muffins

1 1/2 cup flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

2 eggs

1 cup 2 Tablespoons sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 cups diced peeled apples

1 12 cups chopped walnuts

3/4 cup flaked coconut

In a large bowl combine the flour, baking soda, salt and nutmeg. In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar and oil. Stir in apples, nuts and coconut. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fill 18 greased muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack.

Monday's Secrets

2011-11-29T10:54:00.001-06:00

This was suppose to be my "Black Friday" project.

It didn't happen.

So I planned it for Saturday.....

nope.

I didn't even attempt Sunday.

Monday morning I got up determined to do it....

and I did!

I can not show the final project yet....

it is a secret. :)

Black Friday - - No Thank You

2011-11-25T17:50:00.001-06:00

I stayed home today.

No Black Friday shopping for me.

Maybe I have no sense of adventure.

Maybe I am just getting old.

Snow is in the forecast.

So I packed away the autumn decorations...

and added some winter fun to our front porch.

Our friends gave me permission to cut some pine branches from their property.

I was excited to find them with pine cones still attached.

I decided to go with the old toy theme this year.

Our elderly neighbor gave us this sled before she moved to assisted living last year.

I found the skates with the wooden blade guards at the Goodwill....

both are repeat decorations from last year.

This little electric lantern came from the Goodwill...

I especially like the flickering bulb.

Now it just needs a light dusting of snow!

Walking On Thin Ice

2011-11-23T17:02:00.001-06:00

This is our 10th Thanksgiving here in Minnesota.

I will always remember our first year here.

We live on a recreational lake.

There is a channel that connects two small lakes.

It is just on the other side of our property.

The channel does not freeze over.

Because there is always some open water, the waterfowl that do not migrate can be found nearby.

They stick around until the ice houses start showing up.

Right now the ice is very thin.

But there have been years that ice houses are in place long before now.

Over the years we have observed there is one very coveted spot on the lake.

Well....

10 years ago there was a beautiful new ice house sitting within the view of my kitchen window. Someone had pulled it out there behind their pickup truck....then went off to enjoy their Thanksgiving dinner.

Now it was our first year in a new community....and my husband was "on-call". So our first year here I made a huge Thanksgiving dinner for just my own little family.

I spent MANY hours in my kitchen....

preparing...

serving....

cleaning up.

(You know the drill)

The sun was shining and the temperature was rising...it was a beautiful day.

A beautiful day unless you parked your new ice house on the coveted spot on our lake.

Yep....

I watched it slowly sink....

all day long.

The next day there was a photo and interview in the paper....

that happens in small town USA.

Now What Did I Find At The Goodwill?

2011-11-22T13:25:00.001-06:00

My youngest daughter is going to be so excited!

I found her a portable sewing machine.

(The machine she got from her great-grandma is in a cabinet)

I needed to order some bobbins before I could see if it worked....

they came yesterday.

The machine is 26 years old....

is really clean....

works great...

and came with 2 manuals.

I know Emily is going to love it!

And I love that it only cost $25.99!

I will pull it out next time she is in the sewing mood....

which rumor has it will be this upcoming weekend. ;)

Lemon Thyme

2011-11-21T11:50:00.001-06:00

It sits in my window....

waiting to be used...

waiting a long 'thyme'.

I found a bread recipe on Emily Fay's blog that I am eager to try...

but first I need to buy some fresh lemons.

What would you do if you had a lovely container of Lemon Thyme growing in your window?

Scrooge

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

I am sorry if my previous post sounded a little 'Scrooge like'.

I am all for reducing the stress of the Christmas season by some advanced preparations....

I just won't decorate or pull out the Christmas music until Thanksgiving has passed.

I have ordered our fresh trees and have requested they don't get delivered until as close to the end of November as possible....but there are no guarantees.

I have also picked up some vintage Christmas items at the Goodwill this past month....

including a box of cards that I think I will incorporate into my decorating this year.

I am also working on a couple gifts....but I know my limits....so that list isn't very long this year.

I really won't be a "Scrooge".....once December rolls around. :)

Lost In The Shuffle

2011-11-17T07:41:00.001-06:00

I went out yesterday.

Each stop had Christmas decorations already on display.

Some were playing Christmas carols.

I really hate that!

What happened to THANKSGIVING????

Thanksgiving will not be lost in the shuffle in our home!

Thank You Friend!

2011-11-16T11:30:00.001-06:00

A friend stopped by with a treat....

because I have been 'under the weather'.

I am sure that is why I am feeling better today!

Thanks Angela!

11/11/11

2011-11-12T11:39:00.001-06:00

The weather was perfect for a walk among the flags.

There are 1700 local Veteran's whose families have honored them with an American Flag.

They are all over town.

Each flag has a name and military information.

I paused to honor ours.

Thank you to all who have served and to those who continue to protect our freedom.

Hansel and Gretel Lost In The Woods?

2011-11-10T11:17:00.001-06:00

I had just vacuumed the floors.

So what was this mysterious trail that lead through my kitchen to the closed door of the toy closet?

It got bigger the closer I got...

I was wondering where my jar of egg shells ended up!

A jar that was once full!

Oh "Hansel".....

enjoy your egg shell play....

because tomorrow ~~"The Witch"~~ "Grammie Gretel" will do a better job of hiding them!

(I saved egg shells to add to my garden soil...

until I found out our dog dug up the garden soil to eat the shells!)

Kicking Tee Bars

2011-11-09T13:05:00.000-06:00

My son texted me a request...

for "Kicking Tee" Bars.

It puts a smile on my face....

now that the shock is over.

This is the story behind the "Kicking Tee" bars.

My boys played football.

They were 2 years apart in school.

We enjoyed many football games during those years.

I started making these bars for the players to eat on the bus after their away games.

I needed 4 large pans of bars for every game.

I cut the bars really big and square....because football players are big eaters!

Well...on one particular game night....after the game, but before the bus ride home.....the players started coming up to me and thanking me for the bars.

I was a little surprised to have so much gratitude coming my way, but I just thought the coach must have told the boys, "Remember who to thank"....something he did often.

My boys didn't say a word.

The next morning was Saturday. The Super Sport's Saturday Coaches Show was on our local radio station.

Imagine my ~~horror~~ surprise when the Coach wanted to put out a big thank you to Mrs. B------- (Me) for coming to their aid by providing a box full of bars. He proceeded to tell how their team forgot to bring a kicking tee to practice their kick-offs before the game. One of the boys asked if I had made the usual bars for after the game....and when told that I had, he went and grabbed one and formed it just so.....

and they used it for their kicking tee before the game.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME????

I asked my boys....

and it was true.

And forever after that night, these are now fondly known as "Kicking Tee" Bars.

You can call them anything you like, but if you want to make some hungry football players (or anyone else) happy,

I will share the recipe:

This will make a 9x13 pan

(I double for a jelly roll pan)

1 cup corn syrup

1 cup sugar

5 cups rice cereal (Rice Krispies)

1 6oz package chocolate chips

1 6oz package butterscotch chips

1 cup peanut butter

Heat syrup and sugar until it starts to boil...medium heat or microwave.

Stir in peanut butter.

Add cereal.

Press into a buttered pan.

Melt chips and spread on bars.

Dutch Babies!!!

2011-11-05T14:10:00.001-05:00

4 eggs + 1/2 cup flour + 1/2 cup milk =

total YUM!!!!

Also known as a German Pancake, Dutch Babies are like a buttery popover that you serve for breakfast....or in our case.....very late Saturday brunch.

I could not believe how EASY they are to make!

(Gretchen, I hope you are reading this because now that your chickens are laying, you will be looking for egg recipes...and this one you can almost make in your sleep!)

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.

Put 2 Tablespoons butter in a 10 inch cast iron skillet....stick the pan in the oven while it preheats.

Mix together

4 eggs

1/2 cup flour

1/2 cup milk

Pour into hot pan and bake 20-25 minutes.

I ate mine with maple syrup, others ate it with powdered sugar.

Next time I will add a pinch of nutmeg....

and make two pans!

The $5 Quilt Top!

2011-11-04T16:30:00.000-05:00

In 2010 I signed up for a Block Of The Month in Garfield, MN.

Garfield is a small community about a half hour drive down the interstate.

Population 304.

The main attraction in Garfield is the Common Threads Quilt Shop!

The way their BOM worked in 2010 went something like this:

~Sign up

~Pick one of three fabric options

(Batiks)

(30's Prints)

(Civil War)

~Pay $5 your first month

~If you bring your block finished the next month, you get the next block free.

~If you do not make it to club, or have your block finished....you pay $5 for the next block.

Well, from the title of this post, you may have figured out that I made it to all 12 gatherings with my block completed!

Aren't I a smarty pants!

Let me also mention each of the blocks came already pre-cut!

Now please note that I said this was the 2010 Block Of The Month.

This is the end of 2011.

Notice the unfinished binding blowing in the breeze on this quilt.

I guess Miss "Smarty Pants" better get off this computer and start sewing down that binding!!!!

Oh....and the 2011 Block Of The Month....

the rules changed....

so those blocks are still sitting in their cute little packages waiting to be opened.

Now you all know how much of a procrastinator I can be....

please don't judge me too harshly. :)

Eating Seeds

2011-11-02T12:07:00.000-05:00

I was introduced to pumpkin seeds in grade school.

I am not sure when I started roasting the seeds myself, but it is a tradition that my own children ~~expect~~ look forward to.

Of course they always pick the biggest pumpkins....

and make sure there are plenty of them....

because roasted pumpkin seeds only happen once a year!

Because pumpkin carving occurred rather late on Sunday evening,

I soaked the seeds in water overnight.

This is my method for roasting seeds:

~wash seeds and remove any remaining pulp

~melt 1/2 stick of butter in a 275 degree oven on a sheet pan

~stir seeds into the melted butter

~sprinkle seasoning of choice (we use garlic powder and season salt--although some prefer cinnamon and sugar)

~bake until roasted, but stir every 15-20 min. My pan was very full and took almost 3 hours.

If we grew our own pumpkins, we would be enjoying this treat more often, but for now we just ~~expect~~ look forward to it once a year.

Quilt Retreating

2011-10-31T22:40:00.000-05:00

The long and winding road....

that took us to 5 blissful days of quilting!

My sister-in-law and I chose the "Early Bird" option....

because we are wise! :)

My youngest daughter and mother-in-law chose the 2 day option....

because they had to. :(

I spent the first day just cutting fabric....

lots of fabric.

(Normally I prefer cutting before getting to camp, but it just didn't work that way this year).

I will share my finished projects when I get them back from quilting.

The first thing on the agenda when Emily arrived was Binding 101.

I had just picked her first quilt up from the quilter....

the perfect time to learn mitered corners!

There were so many lovely projects being worked on...

and I didn't plan on sharing any of them on my blog...

but I thought this was an interesting concept...

and it was probably the most popular piece of fabric this morning when a quilt shop in Alaska most likely got many requests.

(Sorry, I did not write down the name of the shop)

The fabrics were as colorful and lovely as the ladies who were there.

One especially lovely quilter follows my blog!

Lois' name was drawn for the Dessert Cookbook give-a-way I had a while back.

When she arrived and I passed the book on to her, she surprised me with a wonderful cookbook in return!!!!

How fun is that!!!!

(Thanks again Lois)

My sister-in-law and I shut off the lodge lights every night....

we got so much accomplished...

but got very little sleep.

I stopped to photograph this little stitchery...

not because Christmas is just around the corner....

but because I thought those three words described my feelings perfectly.

And now, after a very restful day, I am ready to unpack my sewing baskets and continue my own retreating right here at home!

Too bad I won't have a chef preparing of all our meals. :)

In Others Words

2011-10-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

{Something that fed my soul this week}

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new lands, but in seeing with new eyes.

~Marcel Roust

These Days

2011-10-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

It has been great having my son home these past days....

but now he is off to the Colorado mountains to work and play.

And speaking of work and play...

I am off to Inspiration Point for a 4 day quilt retreat!

See you when I get home!

24 Dollars

2011-10-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

I made a very quick stop at the Goodwill yesterday.

This is what I found.....

An awesome clothes drying rack.....

15 Pieces of McCoy pottery.....

And some sweet Justin Boots.....just my size.

So Ugly It Is Ugly.....

2011-10-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

...according to my sister.

I personally think she is CUTE.

A pristine cream dispenser with character.

WHIRLEY INDUSTRIES, INC.

WARREN PENNA., U.S.A.

PATENTS PENDING 5

What do you say....UGLY or CUTE?

Poppy Seed Please

2011-10-24T15:22:00.000-05:00

Sister has been hinting at Poppy Seed treats.

Since the ingredients are always on hand....

I really had no excuses.

I decided on little loaves instead of muffins.....

just for the fun of it.

Sister should hint more often!

Poppy Seed Bread or Muffins

3 cups flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 1/2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract

3 eggs

3 Tablespoons poppy seeds

1 cup oil

Combine all ingredients. Beat 2 minutes.

Pour into 2 greased loaf pans.

Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees.

Muffins: bake 25 minutes...makes about 2 1/2 dozen.

Feeling Crabby

2011-10-18T12:07:00.002-05:00

My son has been helping at the farm these past two months.

I have been ~~nagging~~ suggesting that he pick some of the crab apples before he finishes up his duties.

He presented me with a box full when he returned.

They filled my sink.

I washed and cored them....not because you have to but because I wanted to make sure there were no creepy crawlies lurking inside.

(I did not find any)

After almost 3 hours roasting on a low heat in my oven,

I separated the skins from the pulp.

Since I was going to be gone most of the evening, I decided to test out the Crock-pot method of making Apple Butter.

I added sugar, cinnamon, cloves and allspice to taste.

The directions said to raise the lid off the Crock-pot to allow the excess moisture to escape.

(I used chop sticks)

Simmer on low until the apples become thick....then add more sugar if needed.

Stir occasionally.

It took about 8 hours.

(sorry about the dark photos)

And since I just happened to come across 12 half pint jars and lids new in the box at the Goodwill the day before the apples arrived....

I processed the jars for 15 minutes in a boiling water bath.

Now I think some warm bread is in order. :)

In Others' Words

2011-10-16T06:30:00.000-05:00

{Something that fed my soul this week}

People are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges.

~Joseph Fort Newton

So Long Cindy

2011-10-14T20:29:00.001-05:00

I did not find "Cindy"....

but I did find Milli's family....

and "Cindy" is on her way to join them.

I know they will cherish her for the treasure she is.

So Ugly It Is Cute

2011-10-11T12:07:00.000-05:00

My sisters and I will often use the phrase,

"So ugly it is cute".

Basically, if something is rather homely, but endearing, it is "so ugly it is cute".

I have some of that in my home.

I found these plastic banks at the Goodwill a while back.

They are marked

ROYALTY IND. OF FLA, INC. 1974

I am guessing you would have to pry their heads off to get any of your coins back out of them....

and I really wouldn't want to destroy them....

because they really are rather cute....

in an ugly sort of way.

Shortbread Shortcuts

2011-10-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Once again the shortbread pans are getting a lot of use.

The first pan was purchased 20 years ago.

One of the best purchases I have ever made.

When the pans were no longer available in the store, I watched for them on eBay.

There are many different patterns,

but I am partial to the Flowers and Thistles.

I still check for them occasionally when I want to give one for a gift.

Four simple ingredients and in less than an hour you can serve up a warm and whimsical shortbread cookie.

So quick and easy!

If I am wise, I use all 3 pans.

Searching For Milli

2011-10-03T00:30:00.000-05:00

I am drawn to oil paintings.

I pick up landscapes here and there.

Paintings done by 'artists' of differing abilities.

I find them serene.

I hang them in my home.

I don't have much of an interested in portraits.

Unless you know the person being painted....big deal.

But...

when I walked into the Goodwill and this portrait was sitting on the shelf...

I brought her home.

I think she is lovely!

Painted by M. Oden 1969

On the back is written:

"Cindy" '69

by Milli Oden

Oil on jute canvas panel mounted in old frame

Once again I wondered how this could end up in the Goodwill.

So I decided to search for Milli Oden.

I think I found her.

Mildred "Milli" Oden

| Visit Guest Book

Oden, Mildred "Milli" Nee Rahn, age 86 Longtime Hopkins Artist Passed away on July 14 after a brief illness. Milli was the elder daughter of Albert and Emily (Scherer) Rahn of Rosemount. In 1946, she married her late husband Gordon and moved to Hopkins in 1953. She loved being an artist. Milli was known for her portraitures, redwood forest scenes, driftwood and angel paintings. Milli is survived by her son, Dale (Alice) of Shoreview, grandsons, Patrick of Roseville, Ross of St. Louis Park, sister, Agnes "Ronnie" Hunt of North Branch, nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation: July 18, 4-7pm, memorial service at 7pm, Roseville Memorial Chapel, 2245 Hamline Ave. N, (1 blk Blk.So. of Hwy 36), Roseville. 651-631-2727.

In Others' Words

2011-10-02T00:30:00.000-05:00

{Something that fed my soul this week}

Lord, either lighten my burden or strengthen my back.

~Thomas Fuller

Silent Shutter Saturday

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Under the autumn trees.

Preparing For Some Deep Stuff

2011-09-30T12:34:00.000-05:00

The city workers are making their rounds.

Testing hydrants.

And flagging them.

And do you know why they flag them for the winter?

So they can find them when the snow gets deep!

This one is across from our house.

Last year the tip of the flag was all you could see.

Oh winter....

please don't come quite yet!

Dragon Sightings

2011-09-29T10:01:00.000-05:00

I haven't seen this little Dragon since Sunday...

we have lots of playing to do today!

Yarn Along

2011-09-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

I am attempting to make time for some knitting and reading each day.

Life just seems to get in the way most days.

Today for example...

an unplanned trip to the dentist...

yeah..

I hate going to the dentist.

Today I decided I need to change my attitude.

My dentist really is a nice guy.

He does his very best to make the experience positive.

So today I say to him...

"I heard the suicide rate is high among dentists."

to which he replied...

"Yes, it is."

Of course I had to ask him,

"Do you feel disliked?"

His reply,

"Numerous times a day I hear how much people hate coming to the dentist....so yes, I do feel that way."

I asked him if he had 'thick skin'.

After a pause, he said he didn't think so.

Then he told me to open my mouth and he would keep the drilling to a minimum.

Hmmm...

it didn't turn out that way.

Was it pleasant?

No.

Did I survive?

Yes.

(Mr. Dentist did apologize for the extended drilling and length of my appointment...he didn't know until he got started the extent of the work involved.)

I sure didn't feel like talking when I got up to leave.

But I wasn't about to let my last words be condemning.

So I told him, "Enjoy the rest of your day...

and don't let the meanies get you down.

Wow....after that huge sidetrack...

I joining up with Ginny and friends this week.

I am reading a historical novel, which opens on the eve of the Civil War.

Mary Sutter is a brilliant, headstrong midwife from Albany, New York, who dreams of becoming a surgeon. Determined to overcome the prejudices against women in medicine - and eager to run away from recent heartbreak - Mary travels to Washington, D.C., to help tend the legions of Civil War wounded.

I have just started the book....but so far it is a very good read.

I am also knitting a simple basket weave scarf.

Knit 2, Purl 2 for two rows,

Purl 2, Knit 2 for two rows.

Winter in Minnesota is just around the corner!

Now if I could just learn to knit socks like the pair Christine gifted to me in my previous post....

A Perfect Fit

2011-09-26T11:44:00.003-05:00

All gifts deserve a proper "thank you".

But some gifts deserve a "blog post"!

I couldn't believe these socks Christine knit for me...

they are so beautiful!

and they are a perfect fit!!!

Thank you so very much!!!

(Will I ever conquer knitting a pair myself???)

Updated ~

I just found out Christine's mom passed away.....my prayers and deepest sympathies are for her and her family.

Somethings Gotta Give - Quilt Pattern Give-a-way

2011-09-24T11:53:00.001-05:00

Today I am working in my sewing room.

Can I say I am a little overwhelmed?

I have a lot of projects.

I should work on the almost finished projects first...

but I ended up starting something new...

again...

(sigh)

I found this pattern in my "holiday" pile.

I think there may be someone out there who would enjoy making this before the holidays roll around....

so I am giving it away...

just leave a comment...

I will draw a random name on Thursday.

I will post that name right here.

Yorkie Mom's name was drawn.

Thank you all for taking time for comments.

There will be another give next week.

Pumpkin Pie

2011-09-23T11:00:00.000-05:00

When I got married

- 28 years ago -

my mother-in-law gave me some family recipes.

One of my favorite recipes is

Great Grandma B's Pumpkin Pie.

It is simple...

my family loves it...

and it has NEVER failed me.

Pumpkin Pie

1 1/2 cups pumpkin

2 eggs, well beaten

1 1/2 Tablespoons flour

1 cup sugar

pinch salt

3/4 teaspoon ginger

3/4 teaspoon allspice

1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1 1/2 cups milk

Pour into pie shell.

Bake at 425 for 15 min...

reduce to 350 for nearly an hour

(test center with butter knife)

I always make 2 pies at a time....

we appreciate generous slices at our house!

Enjoy!

Gathering

2011-09-22T11:30:00.000-05:00

Never mind that it was a school night.

There was a gathering of friends.

Some old...

some new.

We gathered for a reason.

Some country fun!

Then we topped off the evening with some goodies around the fire.

And we still made it home by 9:00.

Not bad....for a school night!

Harvest's End

2011-09-21T18:21:00.000-05:00

The weather turned cold earlier than expected.

I harvested what was left in my garden.

It wasn't much,

but I didn't want anything to go to waste.

I had some really little carrots.

I decided to try pickling them.

I like them a lot.

I had bought a box of pears to snack on.

The only problem with that, is they all get ripe at the same time.

So I found a Spiced Pear Preserves recipe online...

hoping my family likes it.

I was hoping for a longer growing season and some more cucumbers.

I have a feeling we will be running low on pickles before next years' harvest.

I would have made more of these simple garlic dill slices had I known my supply would be cut short.

I cut the seeds out of the cucumbers that got a little too big and made up this dill relish....I really can't eat a hot dog without relish...so I hope it turned out nice and tasty....

because after all that work...

I will eat it even if it isn't.

I did also squeak out 4 pints of salsa.....

which was way too much work for the meager end result.

And I guess I would prefer to not remember the two quarts of tomato juice that exploded in my canner....

but since my family was all congregated in the kitchen when that happened....

I am pretty sure it will not be forgotten any time soon.

Sweet Apple Day

2011-09-19T10:44:00.000-05:00

When a sweet 6 year old invites you to an afternoon at an apple orchard....

it is hard to resist.

It ended up being a very warm day...

ok...

it was HOT.

Two 16 year olds enjoyed their time picking apples, wandering the corn maze and visiting the critters.

It wasn't until I got home that I noticed the other side of the Sweet 16 sign....

how fitting that our 6 year old got her photo taken under it.

It was just a sweet apple day all around!!!

Auction Remorse

2011-09-17T10:02:00.000-05:00

Many years ago we went to a Lutheran boarding school.

We had a pastor who taught our Senior Bible class.

We thought he was old then.

Last month my sister and I went to his auction.

He was there....now he is old.

It was hard to observe him watching his furniture and belongings being auctioned off....

many at prices lower than they were worth.

This is one of my purchases.

I am sure he was thinking of his wife throughout the auction process.

They shared many years together.

I hope his memories stay strong even though the physical reminders are gone.

I purchased some linens.

They were all hand stitched.

(the corner of one is my new photo header)

I wanted to ask Pastor Gjerness who did the lovely stitching.

I didn't get the opportunity...

as he watched his musical instruments being auctioned off...

he raised his bidding card and bought back his own auto harp...

I heard him say something about 'seller's remorse'....

then he paid for his purchase and went home.

Little Jewel

2011-09-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

LITTLE WINNIE RESORT

M.A. Olson, Prop.

DEER RIVER, - MINN.

My sister gave me this sweet vintage needle threader.

It appears to have been either sold or gifted by M.A. Olson from Deer River, MN.

It was made by

NELPIN MFG. CO. INC.

New York, N.Y.

PAT. NOS.

2,490,882 2,490,883

MADE IN U.S.A.

MODEL 72

"JEWEL"

Somethings Gotta Give (Give-a-way)

2011-09-15T10:11:00.002-05:00

I have been cleaning out my closets.

Twice a year or so I try to "weed" out things that I just haven't made good use of....

or haven't used at all.

We drop our clothes and shoes off at a collection box.

I would rather they go to someone who doesn't have to pay for them.

Everything else gets boxed up and hauled to the Goodwill.

Or if I know someone is having a garage sale, I will donate it to them.

But when the closets, cupboards and shelves are full...

somethings gotta give!

So I am going to start a weekly (hopefully) Give-a-way.

I have lots of random things, but I will pull out things that won't cost me an arm and a leg to ship. :)

One thing I have a lot of are recipe books.

I buy recipe books like some people buy magazines...

I consider them entertainment...

and sometimes I pass them on.

This yummy book will go to a randomly drawn name.

I will leave the winning name at the bottom of this post on Monday.

If this book interests you, just leave a comment.

Comments Are Closed....

Lois please email me your mailing address.

Aloe Vera Galore

2011-09-09T23:04:00.000-05:00

I bid on some Aloe Vera plants at a recent auction.

No one bid against me.

So I came home with 3 full pots for just $3.

The pots were ugly.

So I dug out some of my own and transplanted them.

The plants were all very healthy when I brought them home.

I shouldn't have left them on the front porch.

Our dog nibbled on some of them.

The dog seemed to like them.

Now I am a little worried she will try to snack on them when I am not looking.

She is an odd dog.

She Didn't Have To....But She Did

2011-09-08T12:13:00.000-05:00

This is my link to my boys.

Neither of them are living in the state.

Neither of them answer their phone calls.

Both of them are prompt to return a text.

I need this link.

My link failed me last week.

The same time one son was traveling for 14 hours.

It was very unsettling.

I have had the phone for a long time.

I know I could "upgrade" my phone.

But I DID NOT want to upgrade.

If I wasn't feeling so unsettled, I would have just ordered a phone off eBay to replace it....we have done that for the kids in the past.

So I drove over to our AT&T store.

Bemoaning the expense of a phone when you do not chose to "upgrade".

When I got there, two employees were going on break.

That left me alone with a very young sales girl.

I confess...I started to wonder if I should come back later.

I told her my phone would no longer text....

she told me I am eligible for an upgrade....

I told her I really didn't want to have to do that right now.

Maybe it was my forlorn look...

or maybe it was my shabby appearance (I had been pulling weeds)....

or maybe I reminded her of her mother (hopefully not her grandmother)....

but she told me something.

She told me if I went over to Walmart or Target they carry GO PHONES.

They are a prepaid phone...BUT....

you can take your SIM card from your AT&T phone and insert it in the GO PHONE and it will work off of the plan you already have.

WHAT????

REALLY???

She could have sold me a $250 phone...

but she sent me to Walmart...

and I paid $64.

Not only does the GO PHONE do what I need it to do...

the font is much bigger and I can actually see it without wearing my glasses!

That young sales girl didn't make any money off my visit....

but she earned my gratitude and admiration!

She didn't have to....but she did...

and we will be back to see her when we do decide to upgrade!

Loving Dorothy's Pastry!

2011-09-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is the AMAZING pastry recipe I used this past weekend for pies.

I was a little hesitant because the recipe calls for lard.

I don't have anything against lard, but it does have its own flavor.

We grew up with lard, so I decided to pick some up at the store and give it an adult try.

I used my KitchenAid mixer to mix the dough.

It makes enough dough for 5 crusts.

After chilling the dough for an hour I rolled out 2 crusts....

and I could not believe how great they were to roll....

they almost rolled themselves!! (ok...that might be an exaggeration)

The crust turned out so flaky and tender....

and tasted great!

The recipe said you could freeze the dough in disks and then thaw for later use.

So I decided to test that out.

The next day I made a custard pie.

The dough took about an hour to thaw and it rolled out just as wonderfully as the day before.

Because the custard pie crust gets baked for 10 minutes on a high heat before you add the filling I was able to observe and learn for future pre-baked crusts...it does shrink a little...so I will need to be more generous on the crust length...or use my bigger pie pan.

I found this recipe (along with many more) at the Mennonite Girls Can Cook blog. If you have never stopped over, you really should!

I already know the next batch I mix up of this great pastry dough will be DOUBLED!!!

Laboring Weekend

2011-09-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

We spent our Labor Day weekend working.

Well, we worked Saturday and Monday....

Sunday is the 'day of rest' in our home.

Saturday was cool and breezy.

Not really an ice cream treat sort of day,

but we wanted to support the seasonal ice cream cones that a nearby family owned convenience store offers.

Our friends have an apple tree.

They told me I could pick their apples.

So I did....with some help.

The tree wasn't big, so our job was done rather quickly.

But a laborer is still worthy of his reward....

And I was looking for a reason to try out a new pie crust recipe.

It is an AMAZING crust!!

(I will find the link and share that in my next post)

Now to decide what to do with my basket of apples....

my family suggests more pie!

Pulling Out The Big Cup

2011-08-30T10:51:00.000-05:00

Today I need my big cup.

It has been filled twice.

The second time with cream...

and sugar.

Next time I am asked how many beans I want....

someone please remind me NOT to say 20 pounds!!!!

And if for some reason I do have 20 pounds...

someone please remind me NOT to wait until 5pm to start cleaning them!!!

But this morning it sure is nice having canned beans on my counter and more in my freezer.

Wheat Free Angry Birds

2011-08-29T10:18:00.000-05:00

My daughter is ready to get on board with removing Wheat from Friendie's diet.

It will be a lot of work at first, but I am hoping to find some good recipes and freeze some baked goodies to have on hand.

Recipes are appreciated.

The only thing I want 'angry' here are the birds!

The little stinker would not even let me have a turn!

Not that I would know how to play it anyway. :)

Easy Inspiration

2011-08-25T14:28:00.000-05:00

Today I have the whole afternoon to myself.

Today I have a mess in almost every room of my house.

Today I am suppose to be cleaning up.

Today I am distracted.

Today I am glad I still have about 9 more hours in my day.

I found these curtains many months ago at Goodwill.

I love the pattern.

I am the only one in my house who does.

I knew I needed to use them in my sewing room.

But I didn't want to cover the windows in that space.

This antique vanity was out in my garage.

(I couldn't part with it when we moved here)

Today I decided it needed to be useful....or it needed to go.

I had an inspiration.

It was such an easy one.

All I needed was some elastic and upholstery tacks.

(of course I had them in my junk drawer)

Within a matter of minutes my project was complete.

Little Ruthie really needed a space of her own.

Now I REALLY want to sit and sew!!!

But my house is a mess.

And my coffee break is over.

Sure glad I still have 8 1/2 hours left in my day!

Sweet Violin Sounds

2011-08-21T20:13:00.000-05:00

Some of you may remember the beginning of violin lessons.

I looked back here and found out that was the beginning of December.

After 5 months of lessons, her teacher declared she is ready for the high school orchestra!

The violin I ordered for her was just a beginner instrument.

She is no longer a beginner.

My neighbor gave me a violin for her to use, but I knew it needed some adjustments because it hadn't been used for quite a while.

I also had another violin....it is old....really old.

It was purchased by my mother at an auction for $65 -- to use as a decoration in her music room.

It had been ~~abused~~ used by many grandchildren over the years.

I decided to take it along to the violin store.

The violin techs thought the old violin was awesome.

They also said it needed a LOT of work.

They gave us a quote.

They couldn't guarantee the sound quality.

We took a risk.

Because the marking said "Germany" instead of West Germany, they believe it to be a pre-war instrument.

They worked their magic.

Emily picked out a wooden German bow to go with it.

It sounds wonderful!

It was so worth the risk.

But she is pretty nervous about orchestra starting in 2 weeks.

Just Peachy

2011-08-20T22:01:00.000-05:00

I bought a box of peaches on Thursday.

They are ripe.

I am home alone for 3 days.

So much for thinking we would just eat them all.

I decided to 'try' a batch of preserves.

I cut up 15 peaches.

I cooked them on medium heat until most of the chunks cooked down.

Then I added 4 cups of sugar.

And stirred until it came to a boil.

Then I did add 2 ounces of pectin and boiled it for one more minute, but the peaches and sugar had already thickened nicely....so maybe I wouldn't have needed it.

I filled 7 jelly jars.

Gave them a 10 minute hot water bath.

And then I put my feet up and enjoyed the fruits of my labor.

It turned out so yummy I am planning on using the rest of the box to make more.

Well....unless I am tempted to dry more of these...

or maybe I will just stick to these for now.

Beans

2011-08-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

Our beans are finally coming.

I planted two different varieties this year to determine which we prefer...so I know what to plant again next year. Next year they will be planted earlier in the season though. We put up some raised bed boxes this year and hauled in some really good soil....but it took a lot more dirt than I anticipated....and since that was my husband's contribution to our 'garden'....and since he keeps a rather busy schedule...you get the picture. :)

I was given some green beans. I wasn't really sure when they were picked, (you really want to process your garden produce right after harvesting for the most nutritional value) so I decided to turn them into pickled beans.

My family really enjoys Dilly Beans.

Me....not so much.

I saw this recipe over on Tonya's blog.

I decided to give it a try.

We will sample them next week.

If we like them I will make more.

I am still 'obligated' to make Dilly Beans.

Today I am trying out a new pickle recipe.....

because the cucumbers are abundant right now.

Development

2011-08-17T00:46:00.000-05:00

Friendie is doing well.

His skin is much better, but he still has some days of serious rash and itching....the worst is behind his knees.

We are trying to limit his wheat intake, but haven't totally removed it from his diet yet.

He has been a much happier boy.

He isn't as easily frustrated.

He is developing excellent communication skills....

and pretty much talks non-stop right now.

He is very observant to what is going on around him.

(Previously he would focus in on one thing and it was hard to get his attention)

Here he is coloring for the first time....

last week.

I remember his mommy learning to color in the lines....

I feel very blessed to be witnessing his development.

Craig's List Newbie

2011-08-15T22:05:00.000-05:00

I had never bought or sold anything on Craig's List.

Honestly, I was a little worried about even trying it because of some of the really bad publicity that went along with some serious crimes.

Sometimes I would just look and see what interesting things people were selling in my area. There was no harm in looking.

Well....there is something I have been looking for....and wouldn't you know...I found it on Craig's List....only 55 miles from my home.

I have been hoping to find a used Lafuma chair for my father-in-law for a while.

It had to be an original Lafuma chair.....call me a snob, but after sitting in one, there is no substitution.

They are made in France.

They are amazing.

They are expensive.

I know it doesn't look like anything special, but trust me on this one.

I was first introduced to a Lafuma chair at one of my very first quilting retreats. One of the older quilters would bring her Lafuma every year and set it up right next to her work station. When she felt like her back needed a break, she would recline in her chair for 20 minutes. When she wasn't in the chair, it was free game.....and we all made good use of it. Since then I have been watching and waiting for a second hand Lafuma. I was not going to pay hundreds of dollars though.

My father in law will be 75 this November. He is still farming with his neighbor and is getting rather stiff and arthritic. Not to mention his need of another hip replacement and both shoulders replaced. I have thought a Lafuma chair would be perfect for him to relax in. They are so portable and easy to use. No bending required. Just sit down and use your heels to gently lift the leg rest and then lay back. You can use them inside or outside.

SO....when I saw Lafuma Chair $50 for sale on Craig's List I couldn't believe it.....then I call...and find out the chair is only a couple years old and hadn't gotten much use.

I told him I would take it!

Then he asked me if I would like another one just like it...

I could have that one for $25....

YIPPEE SKIPEE!!

One for my father-in-law....

and one for ME!!!!

These chairs were listed for a week or more before I called about them.

God totally was holding them for this Craig's List Newbie!

Great Aunt

2011-08-15T11:51:00.001-05:00

I am a great-aunt.

That sounds so old.

My third great-niece is overdue.

Her little quilt is waiting.

We are eager to have a baby to snuggle again.

My first great-niece is turning 6!

She was in town this weekend.

Her gift wasn't blog worthy.

I got her what her parents wouldn't 'waste' their money on.

(Justin Bieber requests were granted)

You do those kind of things when you want to be a "Great Aunt".

We used the remaining chocolate wedding cupcakes from the freezer for her celebration.

I wasn't sure if they would still be moist so I made a coconut almond frosting for them (that way the frosting would make up for the cake).

I was pleasantly surprised to find the cupcakes were still as yummy as they were 3 weeks ago considering they were re-frozen.

Spare Moments

2011-08-12T10:28:00.000-05:00

Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut

diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be

known. Improve them and they will become the

brightest gems in a useful life.

----Ralph Waldo Emerson

Does This Make ME Vintage?

2011-08-10T23:35:00.000-05:00

These remind me of my youth...

and my 'youth' was good.

Some day it may remind Emily of her youth.....

or at least her school lunches.

This vintage Thermos is going to feed her well this school year.

She thinks it is 'sweet'....

I told her the correct term would be 'groovy'.

I sure love my vintage loving girl!!!

The gold Thermos will be her Cross Country companion.

(maroon and gold are their colors)

At the beginning of the season it will have something cool and refreshing....

and soon afterwards something warm and nourishing...

because that is how things work in Minnesota.

I am not sure these were ever even used. I paid $2.98 for the pair at the Goodwill yesterday.

I guess I am 'vintage'.

Yarn Along

2011-08-10T10:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I wore a sweater. It was a light sweater, but a sign none the less that cooler days are coming.

This has been a full summer. This has been a hot summer.

I have more time for leisurely reading during the indoor months. I also tend to pick up my knitting more during the cooler months. (ok....I live in MN....lets just say the really COLD months).

And although I enjoy checking out Ginny's Yarn Along most Wednesdays, I have not participated for many, many months.

Well...as it happened....I went to our yarn store yesterday....

then went to the park with my family last night....

with my yarn and needles in my purse.

The perfect time to cast on some stitches for a sweet pair of leg warmers for a special little girl! And what better way to be accountable to actually get both of those leg warmers finished in a timely manner than to post them on my blog!

And since Ginny's Yarn Along also requires a photo of a book you are reading.....

and since any books that I have read this summer have been passed along to someone else by now....

I will share this book that I have been reading everyday since the beginning of the year.

I found the book while at a thrift store.

It only cost one dollar.

It could very well be the most wealth found in a dollar ever.

There are different authors each day, so some days I really get a lot out of it, and other days...well....not so much.

Since it is my book....and since it was so cheap...I decided that I would write it in if I felt like it.

And I do....

most days.

Thanks for stopping by...

now back to my knitting!

Feeling Moody

2011-08-09T10:29:00.000-05:00

Maybe it is the weather.

Maybe it is the mess in almost every room of my house.

Maybe it is crawling in bed and remembering I never filled out my son's FAFSA for the upcoming school year.

(thankfully it didn't take too long)

But...

Most likely...

It is the dentist appointment I have this afternoon.

(I dislike going in for anything that inflicts pain)

Whatever the reason...

I am taking a few moments to drink a POT of coffee....

listen to a few records....

and relax.

I Couldn't Resist

2011-08-05T15:17:00.000-05:00

Sweet

2011-08-04T19:58:00.000-05:00

I have a weakness for Salt Water Taffy.

I don't purchase it often...

but when I do....

I go all out...

because you really need enough to fill the bowl.

It looks so cheerful in Gram's blue hobnail bowl.

Can I help it if the bowl holds 3 pounds?

I hope your day has been 'sweet'!

When The Party Is Over

2011-08-03T21:18:00.000-05:00

The wedding reception was lovely.

The cupcakes turned out great.

The bride purchased a large cupcake display.

It worked well for the hundreds of cupcakes.

We were eating cupcakes for many days.

But now the party is over.

And I wondered what I was going to do with the cupcake display....

silly me.

Owl For Cheap

2011-08-02T14:25:00.000-05:00

I have a 19 month old great niece.

She is about to become a big sister.

(I am not sure she will be very excited about that initially)

Same little sweetie has been dragging around a large fleece blanket.

It is snowmen.

(It is grungy)

I am making her new baby a quilt.

(She may be jealous)

I appliqued this owl on a fleece blanket for the big sister.

If she doesn't like it.

I know a little boy who does.

I found the pattern in this Quilts and More magazine.

I bought the new fleece blanket half off at the Goodwill.

I used flannel and Minkee scraps for the owl and the moon.

(She doesn't need to know her new owl blanket only cost $1.50)

Finding Relief

2011-07-31T11:06:00.000-05:00

I thought I should give an update on Friendie's skin.

This photo was taken this morning. His neck looks so much better.

His legs looked better....until I gave him the toast he was asking for. Within a short amount of time he was scratching behind his legs. Not sure if it is from the dairy in the bread or the wheat at this point.

I am amazed at how quickly his skin flares up....and also how quickly it cleared up when we went 'cold turkey' with the Milk-Free diet.

He is loving the Silk PureAlmond Milk - Dark Chocolate...

at least we found a quick substitute for his 'chocolie chocolie'.

Help Stop The Itching

2011-07-29T11:04:00.000-05:00

Atopic Dermatitis

Poor Friendie has been plagued with skin irritations since he was born.

It began with an awful rash on the back of his neck....after some observation and research, we discovered that he is allergic to the 'tagless' ink that Carters and other clothing companies use in their garments. Carters was just wonderful when we contacted them....they sent us shipping containers to return all Carter brand clothing (new and used).

They sent a check to cover the cost of the clothing....which was very generous.

They also sent a Beanie Baby. :)

Now we cover all ink tags in his clothing....and because he is wearing little under pants, I have started buying Moleskin tape to cover those tags.....it is a little softer than the athletic tape I use in his shirts.

Now I have to tell you about our poor little Friendie.

He has terrible eczema.

Especially behind his legs.

He itches all the time.

We use topical ointments often.

But....unfortunately, this rash comes from the inside out.

The main culprit I believe is dairy.

His itchies have reached an all time high.

We have to do something for him.

So "Dr. Grammie" is insisting on a milk free diet to see if that will help.

You need to know.

Friendie LOVES chocolate milk....

and cheese...

and yogurt....

and all foods with milk....and cheese....and yogurt.

(I should also mention, he is allergic to peanuts.)

He is trying out Silk Pure Almond Dark Chocolate to replace his coveted chocolate milk.

After that trial run, we will try Rice Milk.

We are really hoping we don't have to remove wheat from his diet also.

I could really use some suggestions or some recipes as we embark on this dietary ~~nightmare~~ adventure.

In addition to his really bad eczema, he has developed a bad case of MRSA or a type of staph bacteria (he has taken 10 days of antibiotic)

This diagnosis was by "Dr. Grampie"--who is actually board certified. :)

Any advice that you can offer from experience would be appreciated.

As you can see, he doesn't let his itchies get the best of him.

Winding Down

2011-07-28T13:32:00.000-05:00

The week of the wedding was a wild one!

My sister and her family closed on their house in the country on Monday afternoon, and then the moving and unpacking began.

On Tuesday our youngest son came home from CO. He came to help with the moving...he has big muscles....and likes to use them. :)

On Wednesday the Bride and friends arrived....then a van load of girls took off for a night of food and fun (bowling and laser tag) and a day full of shopping.

On Thursday the guys arrived.....they were able to help out during the day before heading out for their own evening of food and fun (go carts and games).

On Friday I made food for the rehearsal meal....which we enjoyed in my sister and brother-in-laws' amazing new backyard. (I need to get some photos of their great gardens).

And Saturday was the big day!

Writing it out makes it look so simple...believe me....the week was anything but simple.

On Monday I was able to go pick up the quilt from the quilter.

I was very pleased with how it turned out.

I sat and stitched binding when I had the opportunity on Tuesday, but I had to just allow time to finish it on Wednesday morning....before the Bride arrived.

The pattern is simple.

It actually went together very quickly.

Except for waiting for the machine quilting, I would say it is a 3 day project.

I put lime green flannel on the back because the Minkee I had ordered did not arrive in time.

On Monday our oldest daughter turned 26.

Of course we had a party. :)

On Tuesday the Bride and Groom left for their own home.

On Wednesday the rest of our guests departed.

Today our youngest son loaded his Saturn (no air conditioning....but great gas mileage) and left for Colorado.

Before he left, I baked him a few goodies....

not because we haven't had enough sweets lately.....

but just because that is what Mommies like to do.

Friendie and I think the house sure is quiet....quiet and messy that is.

There is always tomorrow to think about that...

right now we are thinking about a nap!

Wedding Celebration

2011-07-26T17:44:00.000-05:00

Saturday was the big day.

After two big storms the night before,

we were blessed with really nice weather.

Our oldest son has a lovely wife...

the girl I have prayed for all these years.

The wedding party had a lot of fun...

maybe too much fun.

Thanks to my sister and my niece for capturing the day in pictures.

Our new family photo....

which may also be our Christmas card this year. :)

A special day for sure!

Christmas In July Winner

2011-07-25T23:34:00.000-05:00

Wow....I almost missed my July 25th deadline to post the winner of the Bareroots pattern give-a-way!

It has been a wild, but good week at our house.

I have fun to share....but it will have to wait until I can actually sit down and take a breather....hopefully soon.

I needed the help of my husband to draw a winner since Friendie was already home by the time I remembered my poor neglected blog.

Lynda will have the opportunity to get a jump start on her Christmas projects.....Christmas is only 5 months away!

Thank you to all of you who took the time to leave a comment.

I thought I would share this photo of an old Hallmark card that I displayed during the Christmas season last year.

Maybe it will motivate me to start thinking about all those gifts I have good intentions to make again this year. :)

Twenty-Eight Years

2011-07-16T00:46:00.000-05:00

It was 1983...

We were 19...

We were in love...

We still are.

Today is our anniversary!

(My Mom made these for us during her ceramics season....and they have been a constant decoration in our home since)

Christmas In July

2011-07-14T16:14:00.000-05:00

I have way too many Christmas projects.

Patterns I have purchased with such good intentions.

But....

"Good intentions do not a project make."

So.....

Here is one of my 'good intentions'....

If you would like to have your name entered in a drawing for it...

6 Hours Later

2011-07-13T20:38:00.000-05:00

Wedding reception baking is checked off my list!

230 chocolate cupcakes

And for those who don't care for chocolate....

106 vanilla cupcakes

A helper shows up....

when the last two pans need to be filled.....

but she looked so cute in her apron, I couldn't send her away.

I did have a little mishap.

Thankfully it didn't get out of control.

Then a cute little taste tester showed up!

And after 6 hours in my kitchen...

I get to put my feet up and enjoy a little refreshment.

10 More Days

2011-07-13T11:16:00.000-05:00

With the wedding only 10 days away, we are focusing on some of the final details.

The girls are getting their dresses altered today.

The bride took the day off to work on her projects.

Friendie and I are watching WordWorld and enjoying a snack.

I am not slacking.

It is the calm before the storm.

If I am still standing...

I will post again.

Sometimes You Just Have To Cheat

2011-07-08T19:40:00.001-05:00

Too hot to cook....

Too tired to care...

Too nice not to take our supper out on the pontoon....

Sometimes this cook just needs to cheat!

(This was last week...tonight is also hot...but it is going to be stormy....and tonight our meal actually had some nutritional value).