#6 Morning Glory Lane

Looking For a Few Good Snacks

2012-02-09T09:36:00.000-05:00

Popcorn Haystacks

1 quart popped corn (no butter or seasonings)

1 cup peanuts

3 oz. Chow Mein noodles

12 oz chocolate chips

Mix popcorn, peanuts, and noodles in large bowl and set aside. Melt chocolate chips in microwave and pour over popcorn mixture. Drop spoonfuls into paper cupcake liners, and refrigerate until firm. Store in covered container. Makes approximately 24.

*I doubled the recipe and used a variety of cupcake liners and candy liners.

Next on deck...Honey Nut Popcorn!

Snowballs from Feedsacks

2012-02-06T14:28:00.000-05:00

I made these stacks of snowball blocks at least two January's ago, and that's as far as I got with them. The green and red prints are from some feedsacks given to me by my husband's grandmother. The soft, white corners are from flour sacks she gave me, too. My intent was to lay them out, alternating colors, for a Christmas quilt. As you can see, they still sit quietly, waiting. I don't know what made me pull them out this week, but for whatever reason, they are speaking to me now. Seems sort of silly with Christmas over, but who am I to argue when inspiration strikes? And who knows, maybe my interest will wane, but for now, I'm going to follow the call of the feedsacks.

A Gift for Baby

2012-02-03T14:36:00.000-05:00

I finished up this baby set a week or so ago, and am just now getting it in the mail. Running to the post office around here can sometimes be quite a chore. Some weeks it fits seamlessly into our routine, and other times, not so much.

The parents are close friends of ours, and this is baby #4 for them as well. I love, love, love vintage children's prints, and this one from The Little Engine that Could is so sweet. The Little Golden Books will forever remain classics. Somehow they manage to seem vintage even when they are brand new. And I love that you can still usually find them at the grocery store, just as I did growing up.

As I do with a a lot of baby/child quilts I make, I tied it with a soft yarn versus machine quilting. I think the ties keep the quilt soft and cozy, and give it a bit of an old-fashioned touch - sort of like something made by Grandma. I know many people tie their quilts with the excess yarn on the top side, but I have always done it in reverse, with the ties on the back side. This is just the way I was taught. I don't see many done this way, though. How do you tie yours? I included a knit washcloth and two matching burp pads. (As I well remember, by the time you get to baby #4, having matching anything feels extravagant!)

I wanted to include something for the older sibs, too, so I put together a couple of zipper purses for the girls and a pillowcase for the boy. Unfortunately, I didn't grab a pic of the pillowcase. It was hopefully suitably boyish, made from an alien novelty print I had stashed.

It is fun putting together gifts for others. And, especially, when you know how much it will be appreciated.

Happy Weekend!

The rising of the bread

2012-02-01T16:04:00.000-05:00

Be gentle when you touch bread.

Let it not lie uncared for, unwanted.

So often bread is taken for granted.

There is such beauty in bread.

Beauty in turf and soil, beauty of patient toil.

Wind and rain have caressed it, Christ often blessed it.

Be gentle when you touch bread.

-Irish Blessing

A Green Finish

2012-01-28T10:36:00.000-05:00

A Thursday morning finish - I put the last of the stitching in before I left for work! I am so happy to have it all quilted and bound. A very simple broken-strip pattern, but I love the monochromatic color scheme. I guess it could be my St. Paddy's Day quilt, just a little early!

On the back are my free form, log-cabin inspired blocks floating on some off white, organic cotton I happened upon last year in my local fabric store. The store owner buys up end lots from high end manufacturers and sells them at amazing prices. It has a wonderful feel to it that I think will only get better and better as it gets used and laundered through the years.

Well, it's time to add the sugar, potatoes, and water to my sourdough starter yeast mixture - I'm still craving those cinnamon rolls! Hoping to make some granola today, too. Late last night I mixed up some Popcorn Haystacks for the kids - more on those soon! Family, baking, errands, sewing, laundry, groceries, the vet, cleaning, reading, and much more. The weekends are always so full with both have-to's and want-to's. What is that old saying...a full life is a happy life? Indeed.

May the weekend in your life be full.

Sourdough Starter

2012-01-25T15:44:00.000-05:00

I grew up very near an Amish settlement and have always admired the ways of their kitchens. I discovered this book at my library, and I have enjoyed reading through the stories and the recipes. The chapter on breads gives a recipe for sourdough starter and also includes recipes using the starter. I've made my own sourdough starter before, but this one took a little different twist in letting the yeast and the water sit for several days in the refrigerator before adding the dry ingredients. I started some last night, we'll see how it goes...and grows! Lovina, the author, has included a recipe for cinnamon rolls using the starter. I've never made cinnamon rolls with sourdough before - I can't wait!

Quilts and Popcorn!

2012-01-23T14:26:00.000-05:00

I got back to some quilting this weekend. I finally began some straight line quilting on my green quilt that has been waiting patiently for me. I don't know why this quilt so often gets pushed to the back burner. It feels closer to seeing completion this time, so I'm hopeful! I also played around with a charm pack I won in a giveaway from Nanette many moons ago. As you can see the cat wanted to play too!

With our big family, I am always on the lookout for snacks that are filling and at least sort-of healthy. As such, we eat a lot of popcorn around here. I usually pop two big pots on the stove and add some melted butter and salt, and although we really love it this way, I think I'm going to play around with some different seasonings and flavors. There are also some cookie-like creations I have found that use popcorn mixed with chocolate and nuts and such. I'll keep you posted on how they turn out!

Pincushion Parade!

2012-01-19T20:48:00.000-05:00

These pincushions are true workhorses of my sewing room. They see heavy use and tend to be a little frayed around the edges! Some are homemade, and others have been collected here and there at rummage sales and thrift stores. To be honest, I didn't realize I had this many until I went searching to gather them up for a photo! And, I think I'm missing a few, too!

This one gets a spot of honor as my son found it for me at a secondhand shop, and it's definitely old. Another seamstress long ago took some time to embellish not only the cushion itself, but she also made tiny, satin toppers for some of the longer pins. It's very sweet, and I keep it on top of an antique sewing cabinet in my sewing room.

Go over to the Pincushion Parade at Love, Laugh, Quilt to see lots and lots more 'cushions! And add yours to the mix, too!

Stretching my dollars

2012-01-17T16:50:00.000-05:00

One shabby, yet solid, cupboard-

Purchase Price $1

One chippy, yet still elegant, teapot -

Purchase Price $1

One homemade, yet sturdy, primitive toolbox-

Purchase Price $1

Grand Total $3

An amazingly, frugal thrifting adventure, complete with the company of my husband and children -

Incredibly Priceless.

A Handmade Christmas

2012-01-13T10:06:00.000-05:00

Since I didn't have the chance to share some of my hand made Christmas gifts with you before Christmas, I thought I'd share a couple now. A while back, Beth over at Love, Laugh, Quilt gave a great tutorial for making her version of a rag doll. I really liked them, and so I made one for my niece. I added a few of my own touches, and I loved her. I have to admit, she was hard to send off in the mail! I had her perched on my sewing table for a few days, and I missed her once she was gone! I got over it quickly, especially when my sister-in-law and brother sent me a great pic of her being loved on by my niece. She named her Arthur!

Another brother was the recipient of a fuzzy pair of crocheted slippers. These were actually a year late. I had made them last year, but was off on the size, so I re-did them. (Somehow, I thought his feet were nearly three sizes bigger than they actually are!) I just didn't mean for them to take so long! This year's sizing was a success, though, so hopefully they were worth the wait!

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. Different in many ways, but with lots of good memories nonetheless. I hope yours was memorable, too.

More soon,

Getting to Know the Pattern Envelope

2012-01-10T13:28:00.000-05:00

Oh, so long ago, I promised you a post on deciphering a pattern envelope. I didn't mean to keep you waiting quite this long...sorry! Life and holidays needed to come first, but even though it is really, really late, I hope some of you might find it useful. So, here we go...

Armed with your newly-taken measurements, your next stop will likely be for a pattern. Nowadays we are truly fortunate to have easy access to so many pattern companies, big and small. When you hear someone refer to the "Big Three" pattern makers, they are usually referring to Simplicity, Butterick, and McCall's, but there are soooo many more out there. It's definitely worth searching online and at smaller, independent retailers to see what's available.

In brick and mortar shops, the major pattern companies will have pattern books you can peruse, much like a large catalog, to find a project that catches your eye. The pattern themselves are usually housed in metal file cabinets categorized by company and then number. Once you have settled on a particular pattern, take out your measurements. In the catalog, you will not only see a photo of the front of the pattern envelope, but you will also see a copy of the envelope's backside. This is where all the important information is hiding. Each company has their own way of organizing this information, so you may have to search a little to find it. Don't forget to check the flap of the envelope, too! You are looking for a Body Measurements chart. Once you find it, compare your measurements to those on the chart. It is quite common to fall between two, or even three, different sizes. A good rule of thumb, is to either choose the size that fits the majority of your body, and/or choose the pattern size that corresponds with the most fitted part of your garment, usually the bust. A good pattern will include notes to help with pattern alterations, should they be necessary.

Now that you have your pattern number and your size, you will need to select it from the cabinet. Make certain you select the right size for you! Frequently, the pattern number itself will be sub-divided with a letter(s) in order to group three or four sizes into one envelope. Example, 2994A, 2994B, and 2994C. The number and letter of the pattern should be prominently displayed on either the upper right or upper left hand corner of the envelope.

Once you have found your pattern in your size, go straight to the back of the envelope yet again. Now you are getting to some fun stuff: choosing your fabric! Look for a heading entitled Suggested Fabrics. Read through the list and determine if any of the fabric types are recognizable to you. If so, go ahead and start to peruse the bolts of fabric. If you find yourself a bit confused or overwhelmed, find someone in the store to help you. These fabrics aren't hard and fast rules, but they are simply suggestions from the pattern manufacturer. When you first begin to sew, it is helpful to follow their suggestions until you learn how the different types of fabric react. As a very general rule, woven fabrics (non-stretchy) are much easier to work with than knit fabrics (stretchy). Very sheer and silky/slippery fabrics can be difficult for a beginner, too. Another helpful hint can be to not choose your fabric on the same day you choose your pattern. It never hurts to take your pattern home and study it a bit more. Look through ready-to-wear styles that might be similar to your pattern and pay attention to the types of fabrics they are sewn from. Look through your own wardrobe and find the types of fabrics that are flattering and comfortable to wear. And you can even go online and search for reviews of the pattern. I love to search through patternreview.com. I have learned so much from this site. Don't be afraid to take your time in this process!

There are a few more items on the pattern envelope that are worth talking a bit about, but I will save those for another time. Even though this post is incredibly long, I will leave you with a dinner recipe to simmer in the crock-pot while you are out pattern shopping! We have to make time for the important stuff, you know!

Sweet Lentil Stew

1 medium onion chopped
Approximately 1 cup celery, chopped
Approximately 1 cup carrots, chopped
butter to saute the above
2 cups lentils, washed
1 cup or so of chopped ham
salt
pepper
2 - 3 Tablespoons brown sugar

Saute the onion, celery, and carrots in butter until slightly tender. Combine these and all other ingredients in a 5 - 7 quart crock-pot. Add water to fill the pot. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until lentils are tender. Adjust seasoning to taste, if needed.

Happy New Year! May you find lots of time and inspiration to sew and create in 2012!

Tips for Choosing Your First Sewing Pattern-Part 1

2011-08-15T15:08:00.001-04:00

One of the classes I teach at my local sewing store is an Intro to Sew Class
that's geared for the beginner or novice sew-er. One of the questions that I get a lot is how to choose a do-able pattern. I think it is really important for the student and the teacher to work with a pattern that helps to encourage the sewing bug. It's no fun and discouraging to sew with a pattern that is too difficult or complex. Because sewing should be fun - it should be lowering your blood pressure, not raising it!

The first step is to find out your body measurements. I cannot stress enough the importance of knowing your measurements before you begin to look at patterns. The size of a sewing pattern does NOT correspond with ready-to-wear sizing. Usually you will require a couple sizes larger in a sewing pattern. I tell my classes, that it is simply a number and not to worry about it. Since you are the one making the garment, you won't be putting a size label in it anyway!

How to take your body measurements

Having your basic body measurements is an important part of learning to construct a garment. Learning how to correctly measure your body to obtain your measurements is a must! For all measurements, you will need a flexible measuring tape; these are inexpensive and widely available at all sewing and discount stores, and even sometimes at the grocery/drug store. Wearing light-weight clothing, hold the measure tape close to your body, but do not pull too tight. Do not measure over thick clothing such as a jacket or sweatshirt. A full-length mirror, and a friend, can be helpful when taking your measurements. The major body measurements are as follows,

Bust: Measure around your upper body at the fullest point of your bust.

Waist: Measure around your waist where you feel a natural “dip” in your waistline. Due to the popularity of low-rise pants, your natural waist is usually much higher than the waistband on your clothing. If in question, tie a piece of yarn, string, or elastic around your middle and sit down. As you sit, the string should naturally “roll” up or down to your waistline.

Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, as you did when measuring your bust.

Back-Waist-Length: Tilting your head forward, "feel" for a protruding bone at the base of your neck. Using this bone as a starting point, measure from there down to your natural waistline.

Over time, as your skills grow, you will encounter other measurements, but the ones listed above are your solid foundation. A good sewing book is always a helpful reference, and will include charts and illustrations for measuring your body.

Now that you have your measurements, record them on your phone, write them down, tuck them in your purse - you will need them when you go shopping at the fabric store!

Stay tuned for Part Two - Getting to Know the Pattern Envelope!

A Little Bit Here and a Little Bit There...

2011-08-10T08:31:00.000-04:00

...and some progress is made.

Seeing Pink

2011-08-07T20:31:00.000-04:00

I've got a new project in the works with lots of pink. See those floral scraps? They are the remains of a vintage, linen napkin set I found long ago. I finally found just the right pinks to compliment the floral print.

And...all of the seams were sewn on The Stylist!

I admit to not using her much since I brought her home, but decided to put her to the test this weekend, and she passed with flying colors. I do love a nice, straight seam, don't you?

Wishing you a straight-seam kind of week,

Feelin' blue

2011-08-03T14:17:00.001-04:00

Or maybe it's more appropriate to say "seein' and eatin' blue!" My little, above-the-fridge freezer is bursting at the seams with sweet, sweet blueberries.

Last weekend we took a trip to Maine where we managed to pick 24 lbs. of berries in less than 45 minutes. The bushes were loaded, and the pickin' was easy. It was a beautiful day. Back in Illinois we always picked blueberries every summer, and I froze them, made jam, and baked with them all winter. This was the first time we have had the opportunity to head to a pick-your-own farm in six years! It didn't take long for our fingers to remember the familiar routine and rhythm of filling our containers.

Driving in Maine is so wonderful. The scenery is breath-taking. You never know what you are going to find around each curve of the road. Sometimes you will find a little humor...

What do you think of these guys? Beauty or humor, I'll let you decide!

Once back home, most of the berries went quickly to the freezer. I want to make some freezer jam, but knew I wouldn't have time this week. I can always pull them out later to make a couple batches.

I did, however, make time to whip up a batch of these...

Blueberry Muffins
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup canola oil
1 egg
2 cups flour (you can use 1 cup whole wheat plus 1 cup all-purpose)
1/3 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup blueberries

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease muffin pan. In large bowl, beat milk, oil, and egg. In medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir dry ingredients into wet with wooden spoon. Do not overmix, there will likely be lumps. Fold in berries. Spoon into prepared muffin tin. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Makes approximately 12 muffins.

Lovely and sweet, indeed - enjoy!
-Elizabeth

Lucky, thrifty find

2011-07-21T22:12:00.000-04:00

A sweet, thrifty find!

It is hard to choose, but I think these two are my favorites...

I think they have to go into a quilt, actually, two quilts since there are two complete sets. I am thinking of a scrappy nine patch block to alternate with each animal block. Such fun to think about! Planning and dreaming about the finished project is almost as fun as the actual process, don't you think?

Happy dreaming,
Elizabeth

A little trip

2011-07-14T11:55:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago my daughters and I took a day-trip to NYC's famous Garment District. Boarding the bus early in the morning, and shopping until we dropped, we had a wonderful time. Even I was on fabric overload by that evening. If you ever get the chance to go - do it!

Emerging from the Port Authority bus terminal...

Our first stop was at Mood Fabrics of Project Runway fame...

Fabric everywhere!

Finding the giant needle and button!

There is a small Visitor's Center, but it is only open M-F - we were there on a Saturday. Beyond your basic maps and brochures, they will sell you a souvenir t-shirt, too!

Squeezing as much in as we could, we also did a little sight-seeing.
The NY Public Library...

The Empire State Building...only in the lobby, though. The line wrapped half-way around the block!

Rockefeller Center...

And, of course, Times Square in the late afternoon...

It was a great trip,and one we hope to repeat in the near future! I was so thankful for the Shop the Garment District blog for all of her helpful hints and great maps! It made the entire trip soooo easy! Oh, and I was fairly restrained with my purchases...mostly because I didn't want to have to carry it around all day! Next time I'll bring a much bigger bag! Here's what came home with me...

Now I'm off to (hopefully!) do some summer sewing this afternoon between snacks and the Harry Potter countdown hysteria that has invaded the Morning Glory household this week. I am fearful it may reach fever pitch within the next few hours!

Happy Summer,
Elizabeth

Summer doll

2011-07-11T16:41:00.000-04:00

A sweet doll for a sweet niece. She will be popped in the mail tomorrow and winging her way west.

Sweet, summer wishes,
-Elizabeth

A Quilt, Some Geese, and Corn Chowder – oh my!

2011-04-13T14:12:00.001-04:00

I’ve been working on the backing for a quilt top I finished waaay back when, and I am getting excited to finally see the end result.

My original thought was to use these free-form blocks as part of a “strip” across the backing, and that’s just what I ended up doing. As they were all different sizes, I added cream color strips on two sides to make them all equal 8 inch squares. Then I played around with the arrangement until I came up with one I liked, and added the appropriate sized sashing between each one. I am still mulling over my binding options. I also need to get some more batting – I am forever running out of batting! It’s the one thing I don’t keep large pieces of on hand. I just don’t have the room to store it, and it can be pricey to buy large quantities at one time.

Last week ds#1 and I took a quick lunch time trip to a local park to feed the ducks and geese. What started out as just a few…

quickly turned into this…

Once we ran out of food, we had to run back to the car! They kept close to our heels all the way to the parking lot! It made us laugh, but also glad we didn’t get nipped by their beaks!

I’ve got lots on my list to accomplish the rest of this week. I’m thinking of ways to streamline the evening meals to give me some more time. I have a feeling this will likely be on the menu tomorrow or Friday.

Corn Chowder

1/4 lb. bacon

1 cup onion, sliced

1 cup celery, sliced

2 Tablespoons butter

4 cups finely chopped potatoes

1 cup water

2 (1 lb. each) cans creamed corn

2 cups milk

1 (14.5 oz.) can evaporated milk

salt and pepper

Chop and cook bacon in soup kettle. Remove bacon and set aside to drain. Add butter to bacon drippings and saute onion and celery until tender. Add and cook potatoes with the water. Once potatoes are tender, add bacon, corn, milk, evaporated milk, and salt and pepper to taste. Heat to boiling point, remove from heat, and serve.

With warm wishes,

Elizabeth

Pedaling forward

2011-04-09T20:29:00.001-04:00

I haven’t disappeared, I’ve just been busy, busy, busy. But aren’t all our lives like that sometimes? So I just keep pedaling forward. Some of my “busyness” has been in the creating department, which always feels good – much better than housework! (Although, housework, I have to admit feels good after its done, just not while I’m in the midst of it!) I decided to have a go at some crocheted baby booties last week at our neighborhood craft night. For my first pair, I was pretty pleased.

I think I will save them for a future baby gift.

Spring is here and the crocuses are up! As we have just moved into this house in the fall, we have been pleasantly surprised by the spots of spring color throughout our front yard. They are so nice to come home to.

I am looking forward to Easter, how about you?!

-Elizabeth

Vintage lace

2011-03-16T15:42:00.001-04:00

I pulled a few pieces of vintage lace and trimmings from my stash today and just played around. I found them inspiring, and thought I would share them with you. Vintage lace is just amazing. It had to be so time consuming to make, yet many were made by hand. So inspiring in so many ways.

Wishing you an evening of abounding inspiration,

Elizabeth

Sweet Baby Hats

2011-03-10T15:56:00.001-05:00

Like so many parents with school age children, I spend a lot of time in the car waiting. Dropping off and picking up the kids are part of my daily routine in this season of my life. I try to have portable projects to work on while I wait, and that usually means something yarn related. These last few weeks I have been working on some knitted and crocheted baby hats for a local charity. It’s fun to use some of the vintage patterns in my stash that I have picked up here and there, and also to hunt down free patterns on the internet. I especially love Crochet Pattern Central and Knitting Pattern Central. Both are such great resources!

Last week I donated two knitted hats as well as three sewn hats made from some soft stretchy terry. (I squeezed in a little night-time sewing at the machine for those!) This week I switched it up, and traded my needles for a hook and have been working in crochet. I’ve got two made and another on the hook. Baby hats are so tiny and sweet. They just make you feel good - to make them, to look at them, and especially to gift them.

In keeping with an “orange” theme, I will leave you with an orange cake recipe I am thinking of trying out for Easter. If you decide to try it out too, let me know what you think!

Orange Coconut Cake

1 cup butter

2 cups sugar

4 eggs

1 teaspoon baking soda

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup buttermilk

2 Tablespoon grated orange rind

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup grated coconut

1 cup chopped dates (optional)

In large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar and add eggs. In another bowl, combine flour and baking soda. Add flour/soda mixture to creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into greased tube pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 1 hour and 45 minutes or until tests done. Can sprinkle with powdered sugar or use topping below.

Topping:

2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup orange juice

In saucepan, mix sugar and juice. Bring to a full boil. Remove from heat. With a table knife or chopstick, puncture top of cake in several places. Pour topping over cake and let stand, covered, overnight.

With Sweet Thoughts,

-Elizabeth

A little shopping

2011-03-07T14:24:00.001-05:00

I just bought this book on ebay, and it’s filled with some great stuff!

I am beginning to practice my hand-quilting skills, and this has some really, easy-to-grasp ideas and techniques. Ami Simms has a great conversation-style voice that is easy to follow and understand. I highly recommend this book if you are interested in taking the plunge into hand quilting. Anybody have any others?

Now I’m off on a mission to find a perfect thimble!

-Elizabeth

Unconditional Love

2011-02-25T14:00:00.001-05:00

“Who would believe such pleasure from a wee ball o’ fur?”

-Irish saying

                                                       Murray

                            December 2002 – February 23, 2011

Channeling my inner Maria von Trapp…

2011-02-15T15:11:00.001-05:00

with a vintage version of Amy Butler's Frenchy Bag made from a thrifted (where else?!!) vintage curtain.

One of the boys got a free gift out of this one, too, as when I opened out the hem of the curtain, the original seamstress had used marbles as her drapery weights! There were about 2 dozen, cat’s eye marbles - a fun find, indeed!

It’s so cold here today! I can’t wait for spring. The weatherman says warm days ahead for the rest of the week, but until then, I’ve got the tea kettle on! I hope you do, too!

-Elizabeth

More wall art

2011-02-11T14:32:00.001-05:00

Well, I’m still hooked on the ticker tapes. What started out as some throw pillows for our bedroom, ended up as some more wall art…

I used a dark, chocolate-brown linen for the background fabric, and then I cut into a small piece of pink and brown floral yardage from my stash for the “tickers”. I quilted the linen and squares to some flannel, and then washed and dried them to get the raveled and wrinkled look. I had some large pieces of thick cardboard that I simply wrapped the finished pieces around. I then secured them in back with tape. This way, if I decide to use them for something else (like pillows!), I can easily remove them.

I’d like to make a few ticker tape doll quilts to stash away for gifts, too. I love being able to use those tiny scraps that I hate to throw away. I’ve really had a lot of fun!

Over the summer I found this little book at the thrift, and I am just now getting around to looking through it.

It is mostly in black and white,but the information and history is quite interesting. There are some photos of quilts from the mid 1800’s that are beautiful, even without being able to tell their colors.

Where did these ladies find the time to dedicate to their quilts?!! So beautiful and so inspiring.

May your weekend be filled with inspiration,

-Elizabeth

A finish

2011-02-07T22:18:00.001-05:00

I have been inspired by all the snowy quilt photos around blogland, and it motivated me to finish up this quilt for it’s own photo shoot.

-Elizabeth

An exciting find

2011-02-02T10:32:00.001-05:00

for me, at least! Over the weekend, I popped into our local thrift and found this…

A Viking 5540. She came home with me for $9.99! Cosmetically, she is a bit rough around the edges, but her motor runs very smoothly. I may take her into the “machine doctor” to have him check out the reverse button as it appears to move a little slower than I think it should (the button itself, not the actual reverse action of the motor). Sadly, she is missing many of her extra feet – only two were included (a regular utility foot and the zipper foot) – but there were lots of extra bobbins. There was no manual either; however, I easily found one online to download for $7. Overall, I am thrilled to give her a new home where she will be loved and cared for.

I am enamored with vintage machines. This love affair started mostly out of necessity. I learned to sew on my mom’s vintage Singer and also on our high school’s older model Singer’s (home ec). But when I went away to college, I used some graduation money to purchase a lower-end model machine (another Singer), the first “new” machine I had ever sewn on. I took good care of it, and it saw me through college and on into the early years of marriage and parenthood. Until, finally, it just gave up. Not having any extra money in the family budget for a new sewing machine purchase, I began scouring the rummage sale ads until I found a 1970’s Kenmore for $30. Two daughters were selling it from their mother’s estate, and it had been lovingly used and cared for. I gave it a new home, and it has helped me create many, many items for my family and friends. And so the obsession began. Since then, I have acquired a 1940’s Singer, another 1970’s Kenmore, a 1960’s Singer, and now the Viking. I truly love the older machines. I think they sew beautifully, and have lots of great character. I can feel the hands of those who have sewn on these machines before me, and I love it that my own hands are now a part of that history.

And on the above mentioned Kenmore, I finished this dress for my niece. This pattern from Oliver + s is so cute. This is the second dress I have made for her from this pattern. I hope she likes it!

Well, it’s another snow day here on The Lane, this time with the addition of some sleet and freezing rain. We have so much snow here in the city, there is just no where for it to go when we scoop and plow. It looks like much of the nation has gotten hit with this latest storm. This winter has been so crazy - stay safe and warm!

With cozy, warm wishes from my home to yours,

-Elizabeth

Neighborhood Craft Night

2011-01-30T21:03:00.001-05:00

This past Friday night was our craft night for a group of ladies in our neighborhood. We started getting together about two years ago, and we rotate from house to house. Sometimes it’s once a month, and sometimes a little more time goes by between gatherings. Everyone brings a project to work on, and we eat, and chat, and relax. We are all varied in our interests and abilities - and a lot of time there’s more chatting and eating than crafting. We all have kids, so there are always some little ones and big ones popping in to see if they can raid our snacks. It’s very casual, but lots of fun. This time I brought along my ticker tape wall quilt, and finished putting the binding on.

I’m pleased with how it turned out, and it fits perfectly in the wall space between the dining room and living room doorways.

I had a little time on Friday to do some blog reading, and I was excited to see Lori Holt's new look! I love her blog, and sometimes I keep it open while I am at work just to listen to her music. She is unbelievably talented, and I gain so much inspiration from all of her posts. I think I am going to have to make some of the cup cozies she gave the tutorial for earlier this month. I just bought one of those insulated cups and it would be perfect with a quilted cozy! If you haven’t ever checked out Lori’s blog, Bee In My Bonnet, go now! You will love it, I promise.

I hope your weekend has been relaxing and warm. Morning Glory Lane is still buried in snow, so I am thankful for a cozy home and the company of my family.

Wishing you peace and warmth for the week ahead,

-Elizabeth

Anyone for ice cream?

2011-01-26T21:41:00.001-05:00

I cut out another Ice Cream Dress by Oliver + s this afternoon. Again, this one is for my niece. I’m using a Chinese lantern print for the main body paired with a yellow for the upper bodice and lower band. We’ve got another snow storm starting here this evening, so maybe I’ll get to do some sewing tomorrow!

I also wanted to share two vintage Dr. Dolittle books I found at the thrift store. The condition isn’t perfect, but I love the illustrations.

Even the inside covers are attractive.

There are both color, and black and white, illustrations throughout each of the books.

It was hard to get a good photo of this one, but the expression on the woman’s face is too funny as she is “nudging” the men over the edge.

Here at Morning Glory Lane it is a good night to curl up with a book, vintage or otherwise. Wishing you an evening of warmth and peace,

-Elizabeth

Having fun with the ticker tapes

2011-01-24T16:27:00.001-05:00

I can’t believe how addicting they are! I admit that I have slipped a bit in my blog reading, so I had missed the new ORB Quilt-Along #9. I stumbled upon it late last week, and I spent waaaay too long looking at all the wonderful inspiration posted on Dee's blog. But even though I was impressed, it still didn’t jump start me enough to pull out my scraps and start playing. However, when my 10 year old son needed a little creative time-out, a lightbulb went off. I quickly cut him a square, handed him a glue stick, a bag of scraps, and said “go for it!” This is what he came up with…

It sat like this for a day or so on the dining room table. Then I started quilting it. This is where the addiction really settled in. (We had decided it would be a pillow top, so I layered it with batting and an old piece of flannel.) I washed it, and it looked like this…

And then it quickly became this…

I had had so much fun, I decided to try my hand with the glue stick, and put together this…

which I am going to bind and hang on my wall.

And then I figured hubby and I needed some new pillows for our bed, so I started on two of these…

I think a table runner is up next, and then maybe some doll quilts, and then a beach quilt, and then how about some pot holders, and then…yah, I think I’m addicted!

-Elizabeth

And the snow, snow, snow comes down, down, down!

2011-01-21T10:06:00.001-05:00

I think it’s a good day for some quick-to-fix, no-knead cinnamon rolls! I like to use this recipe for those times when I am craving home-made yeast rolls, but don’t have the time to invest in a half-day process. This recipe is a refrigerator dough recipe, but you can use it right away, too. You don’t have to knead the dough (it’s actually too wet to knead anyway), and it skips one of the risings.

So-Simple Cinnamon Rolls

2 cups warm water

2 packages yeast

1/4 teaspoon sugar

6 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup powdered milk

1/2 cup shortening

2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

Dissolve yeast in warm water, sprinkle sugar on top, and set aside. Grease two 9x13 inch pans. In large mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients and cut in shortening. Push this mixture to the side of the bowl, and pour in the yeast/sugar mixture in the empty spot. Add the 2 eggs to the liquid part and mix gently with a fork or small whisk. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the liquid with a fork or wooden spoon. At this point, you can either refrigerate the dough or proceed with the recipe.

Filling

1/2 cup melted butter

1/2 cup sugar

1 to 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Divide dough in half, roll or pat out into two rectangles about 3/8 inch thick. Combine sugar and cinnamon for filling, brush melted butter on both rectangles, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Roll up, starting on long edge. Slice into approximately 1 inch slices. A serrated knife helps with this. Place in prepared pans – 4 rows of 3 across. Cover and let rise until doubled. Bake at 350 for 15 to 20 minutes. Frost with icing if desired.

Icing

1/4 cup butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups powdered sugar

3-5 Tablespoons milk

Mix until desired consistency.

Enjoy!

-Elizabeth

Apron Strings

2010-11-23T15:39:00.001-05:00

A quick shot of a quick, little apron I made for my daughter.

Just in time for the big meal!

-Elizabeth

It’s been a long time!

2010-11-15T17:13:00.001-05:00

Wow! Where does the time go? It has been a longer “break” than I anticipated when I posted about our impending move. Well, we are indeed all moved in, but still have those lingering, last boxes hiding in odd corners and closets! You know, the ones that sometimes never get unpacked, and you “discover” them two or three years later – or the next time you move!

For the most part, my sewing and crafting stuff is unpacked. I now have a small corner of a three-season porch to use as my sewing room, and I am super excited. Even though I still set my machine up at the dining room table, I have a little more room to store things, and I don’t have to go digging to get at what I need. It is truly nice to have a little space of one’s own!

On the sewing front, I was able to finish this quilt, and decided to give it to my niece for her first birthday.

(The purple floral is from a vintage smock-type apron.)

I machine quilted it with horizontal, straight line quilting. It’s difficult to see in the photo, but I added hand appliqued scraps of the purple floral fabric randomly around the binding. I didn’t have enough to piece it into the binding, but I wanted a little something extra so I tried this. I really liked how it looked. I hope it “wears” well as I imagine (hope!) it will get dragged around and “loved.”

I also worked on adapting a vintage bib pattern. I love the soft curves around the edges. I hope to have a few of these in my etsy shop in the next few days.

Thanksgiving is coming, and I am so excited! Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. I am hosting dinner this year, and the eldest Morning Glory daughter plays in the football band at her high school’s game that morning. Turkey, and football, and family…I can’t wait! I’m almost done with my menu. We don’t vary too much from year to year. We have all the usual suspects: sweet potatoes, cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, blueberry salad, cranberry salad, homemade rolls, layered lettuce salad, party-potato casserole (kind of like twice baked potatoes without the shells!), deviled eggs, pumpkin pie, coffee, iced tea, spinach pasta bake, chocolate cake, and, of course, turkey! There will be eleven of us: my mother-in-law, my sister-in-law and her family, her husband’s mother, and then the six of us. The countdown is on!

I will leave you with my method for brewing iced tea now that the days are shorter, and the sunshine is limited!

Brewed Iced Tea – makes one gallon

4 to 5 cups cold water

1 1/2 cups sugar

6 tea bags

In medium saucepan, bring water and sugar to a rapid boil. Turn off heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 15 minutes. Remove tea bags and let tea come to room temperature. Once cool, pour into gallon-sized pitcher and add enough cold water to equal one gallon. Chill. Enjoy!

10 days until Thanksgiving!

-Elizabeth

A move on the horizon

2010-08-03T15:26:00.001-04:00

This past month has brought a lot of packing tape, boxes, and some topsy-turviness to the Morning Glory household as we prepare to move house. As we muddle through these next few weeks before we get nestled into our new abode, it will likely be quiet on the blog front. My sewing machines and fabric are being prepared and packed for the move, and I imagine I will be lurking around blog-land when I have a chance, counting down the days until we are once again settled. This will be a good move for us – more space and more yard – always a very good thing with kids. But, for now, it’s back to work – packing and taping, packing and taping, packing and taping…

-Elizabeth

And the heat goes on

2010-07-14T20:46:00.001-04:00

and on and on and on! To keep cool we have been doing a lot of this…..

And on the sidelines, I have found a bit of time to start this…..

It’s a crocheted, granny-square bonnet. I thought it would be a cute addition to my niece’s wardrobe for the chilly fall days (although, at the moment, those fall temps seem soooo far off!). I am adapting it from a vintage granny-square book I have had for a while. I’ve got the bonnet part figured out and almost done, but I want to change the ties to something more modern - and I’m a little “stuck” on that part! It is a common style I have seen over the years using four separate granny squares and sewing them together to form the bonnet portion. For mine, I have added a few rows of single crochet around the outer edge. I am contemplating a strap that would fit beneath the chin and button on the other side. Judging from the weather forecast, it looks like I will have plenty of sticky, hot days (and nights) ahead to figure it all out!

-Elizabeth

Fabulous Friday Finds

2010-07-09T17:08:00.001-04:00

Grand total: $11.63

Happy Friday!

-Elizabeth

Another Baby Top

2010-07-08T06:51:00.001-04:00

I’ve been working with some more of my vintage fabric lately, turning these…

into this….

The red gingham border is not vintage. The blue and red floral was a pillowcase I found at the thrift store, and the yellow was some older yardage. The top measures out at 42x51, so it’s definitely a baby/toddler size. I have this blue and white floral (see below) in my stash that I am thinking of using for the backing, but I’m not sold on it yet – it doesn’t seem “strong” enough to me.

Well, the heat has found us! Our temps have been soaring since the weekend, and without a/c, we have to be pretty creative to keep cool. As an alternative to ice cream, I freeze pudding in small plastic cups, so they can easily be grabbed as a snack. Because they freeze solid, it takes a bit longer for the kids to devour them – they have to scrape at the pudding with a spoon! We vary the flavor and have added chocolate chips, bananas, and blueberries, too.

Enjoy!

-Elizabeth

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-04T06:39:00.001-04:00

With thanksgiving and celebration from my home to yours,

-Elizabeth

Image courtesy of http://hubpages.com/hub/patriotic-american-flags-clip-art

Fabulous Thrifting Find and I am…

2010-07-02T19:21:00.001-04:00

…so happy to give her a new home.

Happy Friday!

-Elizabeth

A few projects

2010-06-30T17:44:00.001-04:00

This afternoon I found some time to start quilting this smaller quilt that I showed you earlier this month. I’m just stitching horizontal lines across the width of the quilt without marking it, using my foot and my eyes as my guides. (I have seen this referred to on several blogs as “organic” quilting.) I am using a light pink thread for both the bobbin and the upper thread, and although I feel this top says “Easter” to me, I think I will like it when it is finished. I’ve been auditioning several fabrics for the binding, and I haven’t found anything I like as much as a pure white.

I also finished up a quick child-sized quilt from some vintage sheet squares. I have admired these all over blog land, and this is the second one I have made. The first is a little bigger – more of a lap-sized – but both are tied and self-bound. They are so soft and cool to sleep with in these hot summer months!

I’ve also been working with my green stash…

The green floral in the middle is from a vintage piece of yardage I found at the thrift last winter. I love digging through the linen bin and coming up with some great stuff! I always try to look towards the bottom first, as that seems to be where all the vintage stuff migrates. I don’t know if it’s because no one around here seems to want it, so it just sinks to the bottom, or if it’s because they are usually smaller pieces and get easily covered up by the huge comforters and such. I haven’t figured it out, but nonetheless, I’m happy it’s there for me to find!

I think I will use these as part of a pieced backing. They are sort of a “free-form” log cabin type block.

We’ve been enjoying some beautiful weather here today. It has been very soothing to sit at the machine with the windows open and a light summer breeze blowing through. I know much of the United States has had its’ fill of incredible heat recently, and I hope that for those of you dealing with the high temps, relief will come soon.

Happy summer and happy sewing,

-Elizabeth

Custard Pie anyone?

2010-06-29T15:16:00.001-04:00

Is anyone in the mood for some pie? We definitely have been in the mood for something sweet and creamy, so a custard pie it is! With its’ simple ingredients that are usually in my pantry, and no crust to make, it whips up very, very quickly. You probably should just go ahead and make one, or maybe two…or even three! :)

Creamy Custard Pie

4 eggs, slightly beaten

2 1/2 Tablespoons flour

2 cups milk (I like to use undiluted evaporated milk, but you can use whatever you have/like)

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

salt

nutmeg (mix in about 1/2 a teaspoon, and sprinkle another 1/4 tsp on top before baking)

Mix all ingredients, pour into a greased pie pan, and sprinkle with the 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 45 minutes or until pie is set in the middle. A sharp knife inserted in the center should come out clean. The pie will likely be “puffed up”, but settle as it cools.

A glass of sweet tea, a piece of pie, and a summer evening on the porch – happy times indeed.

-Elizabeth

Weekend Planning

2010-06-15T14:19:00.001-04:00

I have yet to replace my pansies as our temps have been mild enough to keep them happy. I usually fill in my pots and window boxes with some geraniums by the first of June as pansies don’t like the heat. I just can’t bring myself to pull them out when they are so happy!

We have two more weeks of school, and the kids are more than ready to be done. I think Mom and Dad are feeling the same, too! Lots and lots of activities and open houses and bake sales and field trips and performances and more! All of which are very good things, but we are all beginning to feel a wee bit stretched.

I am trying to go into this weekend a little more organized in the meal department so I am gathering the ingredients for a few classic refrigerator salads. With some chicken breasts on Saturday and a pork roast on Sunday - both done in the crock pot, of course! - I should be set for some easy meals.

Confetti Carrot Salad

1 lb. carrots, grated

1 (8 1/2 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained

1/2 cup raisins

1 Tablespoon honey

2 Tablespoons mayonnaise

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

2 Tablespoons sour cream

Mix together carrots, pineapple, and raisins in bowl. Add honey, mayo, and sour cream. Stir in nuts. Refrigerate.

Four Bean Salad

1 (14 oz.) green beans, drained

1 (14 oz.) yellow wax beans, drained

1 (14 oz.) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (14 oz.) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

3/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup oil

2/3 cup vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 medium red onion, sliced in rings

half a green pepper, chopped (optional)

half a cucumber, chopped (opt.)

In large bowl, combine all the beans and onions (plus optional ingredients). Mix dressing in separate bowl, and then pour over bean mixture. Using large spoon, mix to coat. Chill.

Enjoy!

-Elizabeth

Sight-seeing in the city

2010-06-07T10:05:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it’s fun to explore your own back-yard. While technically the Adams National Historical Park is not in Boston, it is located only a short distance away, in the town of Quincy.

-Elizabeth

Everything’s coming up roses

2010-06-03T12:35:00.001-04:00

I wanted to share with you a few photos of my roses. They are in full bloom right now, and their scent is wonderful. I love roses!

We have lived here for three years, and in that time, this bush has nearly doubled in size. Each year the blooms are more and more prolific. A few times each growing season, I bury some banana peelings around its’ roots – an old wive’s tale I heard about many years ago. At any rate, they seem to like it!

Remember the oliver + s dress I was making for my niece? I finished it, and now I need to send it off in the mail.

I am mostly pleased with it. Although, I will make some changes the next time around. I used the 18-24 month size which was the smallest size in the package. The sizing looks to be good, and I like that the loose fit is such that it will be able to be worn with leggings or pants as it gets to be too short for a dress. I didn’t add the pockets, but for an older child/size, I probably would. Next time I will not make the notched “v” neckline quite as deep. I had difficulty manipulating the fabric around the “v” when attaching the yoke to the dress. This might not be an issue, however, when using a larger size. The only exposed seams in this dress are the side seams of the dress. The pattern suggested using french seams – which I did – and this makes the inside of the dress nicely finished. All in all, I do like this pattern and will be making it again. However, the real review will come from my sister-in-law after it gets worn and washed a few times!

I also finished another baby quilt top. The colors turned out to be somewhat Easter-ish, but I think it will make a sweet baby girl’s quilt. The lavender and green floral fabric is from a vintage, smock-style apron I found at the thrift store awhile back. I was able to get twelve six-inch squares out of the back and upper front. The lower front was not in usable condition, but I do have a little left over for some smaller piecing. I have another apron, same style, in a different color-way, purchased at the same time, and I believe probably made by the same person.

Here is a full shot of the quilt top, but the colors are not right. I had trouble getting good lighting. The photo above is a much more true representation. As you can see below, Mrs. Whiskers feels the need to be in the middle of things!

Now I need to pick a backing! And get some more batting – I’m all out. Oh darn, looks like I’ll need to go to the fabric store again! Well, maybe for the sake of peace and harmony in the Morning Glory Lane household, I better check my stash one last time! ;)

-Elizabeth

Fun Fleamarket Finds

2010-06-02T13:27:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was excited to be able to attend the famous Brimfield Antique Show. The vastness of this show/fleamarket is unbelievable. These are a few of my purchases…

Some sewing and needlework books…

Some kitchen wisdom…

And an old sugar bag! I am going to try and frame this for my kitchen. It has a few stains, but I like it anyway.

Nothing big, nothing fancy, but a wonderful day all the same.

-Elizabeth

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

With peace to you and yours,

-Elizabeth

Another baby shower!

2010-05-28T10:41:00.000-04:00

It seems that babies come in groups! We have another baby shower coming up. The parents-to-be are friends of ours and live in the midwest, so while we won’t be able to attend, our gift will arrive by mail. I made up another set of burp cloths, washies, a bib, and "the bunny" from Wee Wonderfuls. We are also including a cd of The Johnny Cash Children’s Album, as they are Johnny Cash fans.

This time I made the burp cloths out of two layers of stretch terry with two layers of cotton flannel sandwiched inside. The bib is from the same stretch terry, a layer of cotton flannel, and then backed with waffle weave. The bib pattern is one I made up when my youngest was a baby, and I still turn to it most often. I always preferred the absorbency of fabric versus the vinyl bibs, even when they were on to solid food.

I’ve been sewing for my niece, too. I just purchased this Oliver + S dress pattern, and have been making up the 18-24 month size. This is the first time I have used their patterns, and I am excited to see how it turns out. I will keep you posted!

The “Intro to Sew” sewing class that I have been teaching has been wonderful! I love being able to share with others the joy of creating with fabric. It is amazing how sewing with a group of people can be so inspiring for everyone. After helping the students with their individual projects, I come home excited and re-energized to work on my own!

Happy Friday!

-Elizabeth

Sweet Morning Treat

2010-05-27T10:11:00.001-04:00

My baking has slowed down with the busyness of the spring, and when I started to hear grumbling from the hubby and kids, I knew I needed to squeeze in some kitchen time somehow. Buttermilk doughnuts to the rescue! The dough needs to chill, so I mixed them up the night before, and cut them out the next day. If you haven’t ever made your own doughnuts before, give it a try – there’s nothing like ‘em!

Buttermilk Doughnuts

3 1/4 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

2 eggs, beaten

2/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2/3 cup buttermilk or sour milk

1/4 cup melted butter

oil for frying (I use canola)

Cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or plain sugar for rolling warm doughnuts in

In mixing bowl, stir together 2 1/4 cup flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. In large mixing bowl, combine egg, sugar, and vanilla; using mixer, beat until thick. Combine milk, and melted butter. Add flour mixture and milk mixture alternately to egg mixture. Stir in remaining flour. Cover dough and chill for at least 2 hours.

On lightly floured surface, toll dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut with doughnut cutter. Fry two or three doughnuts at a time in hot oil (375 degrees) about 1 minute per side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Once cooled, roll in desired sugar. Enjoy!

*recipe from Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book

-Elizabeth

Vintage summer reading

2010-05-25T12:55:00.001-04:00

I thought I would share a few titles from my collection of vintage,young adult books. Some of these are very well-worn. I hope that means they were well-read and treasured.

There were many summers I spent with my nose in either a Trixie Belden or Nancy Drew mystery.

Summer reading…summer memories…sweet indeed.

_Elizabeth

Buttons!

2010-05-01T20:29:00.001-04:00

My grandmother recently gave me a large tin full of vintage buttons and other notions she had gotten from my great-aunt. I have had a lot of fun sorting and sifting through everything. I need to find a good project to use some of them in – any suggestions?

Happy May Day!

-Elizabeth

Trying Harder

2010-04-27T15:24:00.001-04:00

Boy, I sure don’t know where the time goes. This spring is flying by, and it has really taken a toll on my blog. My postings have been few and far between. I will try harder to get back here with more frequency, I promise!

I have had two baby gifts in the recent weeks that I put together. I have another coming up at the beginning of May where I think I will do more of the same. I’ve been trying to use only from stash, yet make them coordinated, and so far, so good.

For this set, I made a flannel receiving blanket, three burp pads, a knit washcloth, the bunny from Wee Wonderfuls, and then added a purchased crib sheet, and board book. I didn’t take a picture of the second gift, but it was similar with a blanket, bunny, burp pads, a bib, and a photo book for mom. I love making baby gifts…they are so sweet.

We also took a trip back to IL to see family during April vacation. On our way back, we stopped off at Saratoga Historical National Park in Stillwater, NY. Hubby is a big history buff, and even though the kids groan and moan about stopping to see “another one of dad’s history places,” they always enjoy it. It was a beautiful park, and a beautiful day, I wish we had had more time to spend there.

Well, I think spring has fully and finally arrived. The lilacs are just beginning to bloom here, and we are supposed to have gorgeous weather for the upcoming weekend. I hope wherever you are, the sun is shining and flowers are blooming! Happy Spring!

-Elizabeth

Will it ever stop raining?!!!?

2010-03-15T15:47:00.001-04:00

I have never seen so much rain! We are well over 7 inches, and another 1 or 2 still expected. Time to stay inside and sew, I say! However, whether it rains or not, life still must move forward – work, school, groceries, post office, kids’ activities…sigh. Tonight, then, we will all be tucked up warm, cozy, and DRY! Maybe I will find time to whip up a comforting, sweet treat like this from one of my favorite Gooseberry Patch cookbooks…

Cinnamon Cake

1 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons butter

1 cup milk

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients and pour into greased 13 x 9 inch pan. Add topping (below).

Topping

2 cups brown sugar

2 Tablespoons butter

1 1/4 cup water

Combine ingredients in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Pour mixture over cake and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Serve this warm, with or without whipped cream or some vanilla ice cream, but most importantly, accompanied by a steaming mug of coffee.

Hoping that in your corner of the world, your evening is warm, cozy, and dry.

-Elizabeth

Spring Scarf

2010-03-10T13:18:00.001-05:00

I’m almost done with my second scarf from this pattern I posted about last time. I think it will make a great addition to my spring wardrobe. Out here it never seems to warm up until late May, so I’ll probably be wearing this for a good couple months yet! I did increase the width by half and am just crocheting away until I feel it’s long enough. I just love this pattern.

It’s been a busy week already around here, and it continues through to the weekend. Dinner tonight will need to be fast and easy, so some scrambled eggs and biscuits are on the menu. Breakfast for dinner is a popular “quick” meal with my clan. What about you?

Cheers,

-Elizabeth

Scarves and Snowballs

2010-03-05T13:42:00.001-05:00

I happened upon this scarf pattern a few weeks ago, and I just loooove it. I quickly made this one

up in some alpaca yarn that I bought the first year we visited the alpaca farm in the fall (2008). And now I’m working on one in a pale pink cotton. For the pink one, I added some width and will probably add some length. It makes up very quickly and has such a feminine look about it…so pretty.

I’ve also delved into those feed sack fabrics I brought back with me at Christmas. I’m using the green and red matching fabrics to make a “snowball” quilt.

As usual, I am so glad it’s Friday! I’m looking forward to some family time and maybe some time in the kitchen. I’ve been craving some from-scratch cake, but maybe these will suffice.

Coffee Bars

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup shortening

1 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 cup hot coffee

1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Cream shortening and sugar. Add egg and blend well. Add hot coffee. In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda and powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add to creamed mixture with the nuts. Spread ina greased 9x13 pan and bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Frost if desired – a chocolate or caramel frosting is delicious!

Enjoy your weekend,

-Elizabeth

Back in the saddle…I hope

2010-03-02T13:47:00.001-05:00

Wow! February just disappeared. Between two rounds of colds and other nasty viruses, a visit from Grandma, and school vacation week, the month of February at the Morning Glory Lane household was a little bit of a blur! It’s feels good to start to see the return of routine around here.

Even with the hub-bub, I’ve kept the sewing machine humming. I made a few of these finger pincushions…

I have seen these on several blogs, but I used the tutorial here at Don't Look Now. Super sweet and super easy. A funny story: as I was making these, I had a couple sitting on the desk near my sewing machine. Earlier that week, the oldest daughter had told me she needed to get birthday presents for a couple of her friends. She happened to walk in as I was finishing up some sewing, and I turned to her, held out two pincushions, and said with a straight face, that I had made rings for her friends’ birthday presents. For a moment she looked at me in shock and horror (she’s 15) until she realized I was joking. Now it is a running joke that anytime we need a gift, the girls suggest I make a “puffy ring.”

I also completed the top of my Ravishing Red Quilt… I still need to square it up and then pick out some backing. I like it, but I have a feeling it might sit in my to-do pile for a while.

I’ve also started taking my first quilt class. Over the years, I’ve mostly taught myself, but I’ve always wanted to take a class and learn from others. And I’m loving it! Here’s a little glimpse into what we’re doing…

The pattern:

And my fabrics:

I’ve also started teaching an Intro to Sewing class at another local shop. I am having a lot of fun, and I would love to be able to teach and sew all the time!

Around here, weather-wise, March came in like a lion, so I am hoping that this means the days are only going to get warmer. I did see some buds on a few bushes over the weekend!

With warm, spring wishes,

-Elizabeth

Unwanted Guest…

2010-02-01T18:49:00.001-05:00

Trying to fight off the nasty cold virus that is spreading through the Morning Glory Lane household…back soon.

-Elizabeth

A few blocks

2010-01-23T19:52:00.001-05:00

I don’t have any string projects to share yet for Stephanie's String Challenge, but I do have a few “crumb” blocks. I made these following this tutorial at Quiltville.

Most of these scraps came from a bag I got at the thrift store. I’m always on the lookout for sewing “stuff” and I can only imagine what the clerk thought – probably something along the lines of “why is this crazy lady buying a baggie stuffed full of little wrinkled up pieces of fabric?!!” Yeah, that crazy lady would be me…

Well, anyway, I had a lot of fun making these blocks, but for now they are stacked in my ufo pile still waiting to be made into something…anything…got any ideas? :)

-Elizabeth

Red, red, everywhere there is red…

2010-01-20T14:08:00.001-05:00

In between sewing my red “bricks” together, I have begun quilting this small, child-sized top that I finished before Christmas.

The picture is a bit off, but the colors are really strong. I was drawn to these two coordinating, very geometric, red and blue prints in my stash and paired them with a red and white dot. I am simply doing a vertical, straight-line quilting design. The backing fabric is one piece, consisting of a white background with a tiny, blue and red geometric design. I haven’t decided on a binding yet. Depending on how this finishes out, this may go into my etsy shop.

The holiday sweets have long been devoured around the Morning Glory Lane household, and I think we might be going into sugar withdrawal. I’ve been craving something sweet, and I think these may get made before the week is out…

Blonde Brownies

Thick and chewy…mmmmm

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped nuts, optional

2/3 cup butter or margarine

2 cups brown sugar

2 eggs, slightly beaten

2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup chocolate chips

Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nuts together in large bowl, set aside. Melt butter and add brown sugar – let cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla to sugar/butter mixture and then all of this to the flour mixture. Spread batter in a greased 9-inch pan and sprinkle with chocolate chips, pressing chips slightly into batter. Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 25 minutes, or until desired doneness.

With sweet wishes,

Elizabeth

An afternoon of sewing…

2010-01-18T16:40:00.001-05:00

I just spent the entire afternoon sewing! I don’t remember when that has happened before! Hubby took the boys to the Museum of Science and the girls spent the afternoon studying and doing homework. This is what I got done…

This is AmandaJean’s Charming Handbag at Moda BakeShop. I used a charm pack of Fig Tree Quilt's Patisserie that I had purchased this past summer, and for the lining used a dusty-pink polka-dot from my stash (although I just bought it last weekend, so does it really count as stash?!!). I don’t purchase charm packs very often, so I’m glad I found a way to show these off. The pattern uses 32 charms, and I used 3 more for some interior pockets.

For the most part I followed AmandaJean's directions, but I did add some batting (warm & natural) to the straps to give them some more body. And I also lengthened the straps a bit. I really like how this turned out. It is a good-sized bag, and I think I will use it to carry sewing supplies/projects.

We’ve had a nice three-day weekend. It started out with homemade pizza on Friday night, then some cleaning and organizing on Saturday morning, hubby and the boys watching some Big Ten basketball on the television in the afternoon, a little shopping trip yesterday, and finally the trip to the museum and my sewing time today. I think we’ll have to start out the weekend with pizza more often! ;)

In case you get an inkling to make your own pizza some time soon, I thought I would share the super easy (and quick) crust recipe that I use.

Pizza Crust

1 package of yeast(2 1/4 teaspoons)

1 cup warm water

2 1/2 cups flour

2 Tablespoons oil

2 teaspoons sugar

2 teaspoons salt

cornmeal for dusting the pans

In large bowl, dissolve yeast in the warm water. Add oil, salt, and sugar. Stir in the flour with a wooden spoon. Knead in the bowl slightly and let set for 5 minutes (cover with a cloth towel or napkin). Roll out or press out to the desired size and place on “cornmealed” pizza pan or stone. Top with sauce and toppings and bake at 450 degrees until done. Serve!

*I usually take this recipe x5. I know it sounds like a lot, but it is nice to have leftovers for the next days lunch or snacks!

-Elizabeth

My “Go-To” Project

2010-01-14T13:51:00.001-05:00

I have a few “standard” gifts I give for new babies, weddings, birthdays, etc. This blanket is one I usually do for either a new baby gift or a first birthday gift. It’s a quick and easy pillowcase-style blanket with a novelty print on one side and a coordinating print on the reverse. I usually topstitch around the edge and tie with with a matching yarn. For the batting, I like flannel, but I have used cotton batting, or even recycled cotton or flannel sheets. I like it to be warm, but not overly heavy. Size varies, sometimes depending on the yardage I have in my stash, but keeping in mind that it is intended to be a toddler blanket – a finished size of approximately 32”x44” is nice.

The one pictured above is for my recently-turned-one nephew. It has brightly colored snakes and lizards twined around tree trunks. Over the years I have made so many of these style of blankets – I wish I had kept track. Each of our kids has one, and they have been affectionately dubbed according to the print on the fabric. Our 15 year old still has her “strawberry blanket”, and her sister has her “carrot blanket. The boys each have a “bug blanket” and “frog blanket” respectively. I hope this newest “snake blanket” addition will not only bring warmth, but comfort, and get carried around and washed until it is worn thin with love.

-Elizabeth

Seeing Red

2010-01-12T15:48:00.001-05:00

I started a new quilt over the weekend. I pulled five different reds from my stash and started cutting. I was inspired by all of these gorgeous quilts over at Red Pepper Quilts. Her work is stunning, not to mention prolific!!!

What do you think? Too much red…or is there such a thing?!!

Speaking of red, make sure you check out Craft Hope's newest project. Hmmm, now I’m going to have to check my yarn stash for some red yarn…;)

-Elizabeth

Gifted Treasures

2010-01-09T07:50:00.001-05:00

While we were back staying with family over the holidays, I was given a wonderful treasure of vintage fabrics – many of them feedsacks. They had been lovingly saved over the years, and I am thrilled to give them a new home.

Look at “Mr. Vitamin G” along with a gorgeous winter scene on blue…

And then lots of red and green…

If you look closely, in the back ground is a lovely white tablecloth with what, to me, looks like drawn work. (of which I know nothing about, but still greatly admire the many hours of work that must have gone into it!) The tablecloth is very large and, unbelievably, without stains. It will be treasured and used only on special occasions.

There’s still more…

and more…

I loooove this purple print, and the fruit, too.

I have lots and lots of ideas for these that I can’t wait to get started on.

And last, but not least, a few more…

All of these also included a large stack of flour sack fabric, too! I feel very, very lucky to have been given such a generous gift.

Now if I could just find the gift of time…;)

Happy, happy weekend,

Elizabeth

Home Again

2010-01-06T19:59:00.001-05:00

It’s so good to go, but it is so wonderful to be home again! There’s nothing like your own bed and your own kitchen! As usual, the trip went by in a blur. The actual drive there and back went fairly smoothly. We avoided most of the bad weather, and although the kids watched a few more movies than I would have liked, we arrived (both ways) sanity intact! ;) We were packed into our van like sardines, and I’m sure we provided more than a few laughs to fellow travelers on the roads!

Christmas Eve and Day were spent between families, and both just flew by. Since moving to the east coast, we have always traveled back to celebrate Christmas with our parents and grandparents, all of the aunts and uncles (our siblings), lots of extended family, and friends. The first year we moved, our youngest was 5 years old and very concerned that Santa would find us since we were far, far away from our own home. Fortunately, Santa Claus did indeed find us. Somehow he must have known that our children would be worried, and he left a detailed letter explaining that he would make an “extra special” trip to our house on the night we arrived back from our journey. And every year since, he has left a note (and sometimes a small gift) beneath the tree of whichever family’s home we are staying on Christmas Eve night. It’s been a sweet tradition, and makes the coming home drive a little bit easier after leaving behind both of the grandmas and grandpas and the rest of our family.

Sadly, we did have a few upsets during our visit – some health issues with two of the great-grandmothers and some car trouble. We had to have the alternator replaced in our van (on hubby’s 40th birthday, no less!) Fortunately, we were able to take care of the van without too much disruption. I am so thankful this didn’t happen on the drive there or back! We are keeping both of the great-grandmother’s in our prayers.

The one person we did not get to see was my sister and her husband. My sister is a nurse and had to work both on Christmas Eve and Christmas. Hopefully we will get to see each other soon. I did take a picture of her quilt before I wrapped it up.

The front…

and the back…

The colors are much prettier in person – I would love to have a better camera! ;) I hope she likes it!

This week is back to work and school…sigh. The tree is down and most of the mess is picked up. Now I hope to find a few moments to linger with a cup of coffee (and some left-over fudge!) and catch up with some blog reading!

With happy Christmas memories,

Elizabeth

Merry, Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

May your Christmas be filled with Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy.

Elizabeth

The Final Stretch

2009-12-21T11:46:00.001-05:00

Last night I finished up several teacher baskets filled with homemade goodies like fudge, minty almond bark, and cookies-and-cream truffles. They are all wrapped and sitting on my counter waiting to be delivered. (You know, cellophane wrapped baskets are really hard to photograph!) But they will keep until tomorrow while we enjoy (?!?) a snow day today, and try and scoop out from beneath the 12 inches plus of snow we received yesterday! We had some of the lower totals, too! Thanks goodness the storm hit before we left and not during our drive!!!

Beyond the snow, today is filled with packing and cleaning and list-checking. Blog-wise, I will be off until after the first of the year.

With Many Merry, Merry Christmas Wishes to you and yours,

Elizabeth

Christmas Cracker Candy

2009-12-18T15:18:00.001-05:00

A sweet and salty treat!

2 sticks butter (no margarine)

1 cup brown sugar

12 oz. chocolate chips

Saltine crackers

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with heavy duty foil. Cover with a single layer of saltine crackers (about 4 across by 6 down). Melt the butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Bring just to a boil. Pour over saltines. Place in oven for approximately 3 – 5 minutes. Watch closely! When brown sugar mixture begins to bubble around edges, remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Place back in oven for one minute. Remove and spread softened chocolate chips over top.

Place in refrigerator until chocolate is hardened, then break into pieces. Store in cool place. ***You can easily halve this recipe if needed.

Sweet weekend wishes,

Elizabeth

Keep on truckin’

2009-12-17T14:16:00.001-05:00

There are a lot of great blogs throwing all sorts of holiday parties right now -The Nester and Thrifty Decor Chick just to name a few. It’s been fun to pop in here and there to check things out. But mostly around here, I just keep on truckin’ – sewing and baking, attending parent/teacher conferences, school band concerts and field trips, wrapping and hiding presents, and probably the biggest: getting ready for our six state drive-through next week to get to our family in Illinois! Life is full…and blessed.

I’m getting close to having all my sewing done. My self-imposed deadline is Friday night. Finishing the binding on my sister’s quilt is on tap for tonight, and tomorrow I will finish some ornaments I am making for my grandmother, parents, and aunt.

I am stitching some hexagon flowers onto various wool scraps, and then simply making a stuffed circle with a ribbon hangar. The hexagons are made from my grandfather’s ties. He passed away almost two years ago, and I’ve been meaning to make a memento from them for some time now. The biggest trick was stabilizing the slippery polyester tie fabric!

Saturday and Sunday will be spent baking up a storm for some more family and teacher gifts (in between loads of laundry!), and Monday is packing day. And then…we head out Tuesday after school…whew!

With Christmas merriment and “busyness,” and the embracing of it all,

Elizabeth

And the baking begins…

2009-12-14T13:58:00.001-05:00

Peanut Butter Kisses

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 package of chocolate kisses

extra sugar to coat cookies

In large mixing bowl, mix peanut butter and butter. Add half of the flour, both sugars, egg, baking soda, baking powder, and vanilla. Mix in remaining flour. If dough is too soft, chill for one hour or more. Shape dough into balls and roll in white sugar to coat. Bake at 375 degrees until lightly browned. Immediately press chocolate kiss in middle of hot cookie.

Eggnog Bread

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 cup eggnog

1/2 cup butter, melted

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

2 1/4 cup flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Beat eggs in large mixing bowl, add sugar, eggnog, butter, and vanilla – mix well. Add flour, baking powder, and spices. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 50 minutes. Test for doneness with knife or toothpick. Let rest in pan for 10-15 minutes, remove, cool, and wrap.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

The Rooster Crows at Christmas

2009-12-11T14:13:00.001-05:00

I had just a small piece of this vintage chicken print, and I had been saving it for something for my mom. (She collects chickens and her kitchen is red.) I found some “mystery” cotton fabric at my local fabric store, and thought it might work up well into the dish towels that were popping up everywhere last Christmas. It is similar to waffle-weave, but has a much softer hand. Whatever it is, I’m glad I prewashed, as it shrunk up considerably, but it also came out super soft. So, with a little olive green binding and some scraps of batting for the potholder, I’ve got a nice little set for my mom. I’m working on a Christmas-y set for my mother-in-law.

We escaped much of the snow that barreled across the nation, but the wind is howling and the temps are the coldest we’ve seen this year. I think the coffee pot and the kettle will be going for most of the weekend!

Warm weekend wishes,

Elizabeth

Come on in…

2009-12-10T13:56:00.001-05:00

Feeding four ever-hungry kids and a husband during busy times isn’t always easy. I’ve said before that the crock pot reigns queen around Morning Glory Lane, and during Christmas time, I sometimes have two of them going at once. Prep time also has to be minimal for me as I usually don’t have a lot of extra time in the morning before heading out the door. This gumbo is a favorite, it will be on our table soon…

Chicken and Ham Gumbo

1 1/2 1bs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped

1 Tbsp. oil

10 oz. package of frozen okra

1 cup chopped ham (use leftovers, deli meat, even canned)

2 medium-sized green peppers, chopped

3 (10 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained

6 cups chicken broth

2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (or just use reg. tomatoes and add a small can of chopped green chilies)

Salt and pepper to taste, if desired

1/2 cup rice, uncooked (you can omit this if you don’t have any or don’t like rice)

1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro

Cook chicken in oil until done (you can do this the night before and store in refrigerator). Rinse the okra in hot water so that it does not stick together. Combine all but cilantro in the crock pot. Cook on low 6 – 8 hours, or high for 3-4. Add cilantro just before serving.

Come on in and sit a spell – the tree is lit and the soup’s a bubblin’,

Elizabeth

Peace amidst the hustle and bustle

2009-12-09T14:25:00.001-05:00

Every year along about early October, I start praying that the month of December will be a month of peace for my family. That the enormous, never-ending list of to-do’s will somehow be accomplished before the turn of the November calendar page. Every year I harbor deep-rooted fantasies of simply floating through the month of December, slowly savoring Christmas activities with my family and friends, free from the pressing demands of the the hard work of the holidays. Some years I feel closer to this than others.

This year has been no different in my wishes for a stress-free December. I have organized, pre-planned, and multi-tasked my way through November, but my list is still there – and I’m not sure it’s getting any shorter! However, what has been different, is my conscience effort to really think about each task as I’m doing it - trying to find the peace in the “doing.” I know this isn’t a new concept, but it has given me a new way of thinking about peace. I easily get overwhelmed, and I have to truly work to center myself in the moment. But the gift that I experience when I truly do let go and allow myself to be fully engrossed in the task at hand, has taken me a little bit by surprise. It’s such a common sense type of conclusion, yet it’s one of those things that just doesn’t quite “click” until it happens to you.

I have found one of the easier activities for me to find my center, has been sewing or knitting/crocheting. So…instead of trying to reduce my number of handmade items this year, I have actually raised it! And incredibly, this is working for me! Maybe this won’t always be the case, but for the here and now, I am thankful. This quilt has been in my ufo pile for a few months, and as I looked at it with new eyes, I decided it would be perfect for my sister’s Christmas present. The top had been finished, so now I’m quilting it up and hope to put the binding on this weekend.

I’ve also knit up a good-sized pile of washcloths for various gifts - I am going to bundle two of them together. I’ve used various patterns found mostly on-line, but the most popular one has been the easy, diagonal knit pattern of the cast on 4 and increase each row until you have 45 stitches, then decrease each row until you have 4 stitches left, and then finish with a bind off. Super, super easy and fast. I may be making more, but I am still keeping it simple! (btw, the red and green afghan in the background is a favorite thrift store find from a few years ago)

More to share soon.

Sending wishes of peace,

Elizabeth

Quilts for Craft Hope #5

2009-11-13T19:12:00.001-05:00

My quilts are on their way via the USPS to their destination for Craft Hope's most recent project, Margaret's Hope Chest. I can’t wait to hear the results - I think at last count they were getting close to their goal of 400 donated quilts. It is amazing to think of all the crafters out there who are participating in all of these wonderful projects. It is amazing to be a tiny part of such a big momentum of love and caring.

Go take a look at all the quilts pouring in, and I guarantee you will be nothing short of amazed, too.

I did some thrifting recently and came home with a few goodies. I love old knitting and sewing books, and I was excited to stumble across this vintage booklet for baby knits. I guess it was marked cheap because it was missing the cover - nonetheless, I am happy to give it a new home! Look at how cute these sweaters are!

And this one, too!

A rather retro-looking nursery rhyme book found it’s way into my cart also.

The coastal New England states are hunkering down tonight and tomorrow for the remnants of tropical storm Ida. Definitely a good time to stay inside and curl up with my new-to-me books – let’s hope the four children who also reside at Morning Glory Lane feel the same!

Warm weekend wishes,

Elizabeth

Finally Friday…

2009-11-06T15:49:00.001-05:00

I love Friday’s, don’t you? I love gathering everyone back in at the end of the week and the freedom of the weekend stretching ahead. (Although at our house our weekends are nearly as busy as our weekdays!) Walking over to the school this afternoon to pick up the youngest son, I enjoyed this…and this…

and lots of these…

crunching underfoot, and blowing and swirling around.

After work and before school let out , I had just enough time to eat a little lunch and start ironing several feet of this…

A cup of tea, a few moments of an old movie on the television, and the autumn sun streaming through windows –

a good Friday afternoon, indeed.

Happy Friday to you and yours,

Elizabeth

A little bit of this and a little bit of that

2009-11-04T16:15:00.001-05:00

We took a quick jaunt “down south” to Hartford, CT for a tour of Mark Twain’s home and museum. We couldn’t take any pictures in the house, but it was beautiful. Go see this house if you can. It is well worth it. They divide the tour into two parts – the main house and the servant’s wing – both were great. The servant’s wing gives you an inside view of the kitchen and how such a large house was managed. The main house is a longer tour, covering more territory, but both tours are filled with wonderful stories of the family. The tour guides did an excellent job of making the house come to life.

Here’s my version of Rae's Itty Bitty Baby Dress. This was a gift to my bother and his wife’s new baby daughter – my first niece! I hope it fits her and that she will get a little bit of wear out of it before the winter. I bought a pink onesie turtleneck and some pink tights to go with it (in lieu of the dotted pants) in case it gets cold sooner than later! I saw her shortly after she was born, but she lives in Chicago, so I’m relying on pictures and emails until we see her at Christmas! Babies are so sweet.

And just in case you feel the need for something sweet, I leave you with some Monster Cookies, mine are missing the M&M’s this time, but with four ever-hungry kids (and hubby), they still got eaten just the same.

Monster Cookies

2 cups white sugar

2 cups brown sugar

2 cups shortening

1/2 cup peanut butter

4 eggs

2 teaspoon vanilla

3 cups flour

2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoon salt

3 cups oatmeal (you can use old-fashioned, or quick)

6 oz. chocolate chips

6 oz. M&M’s

In a large mixing bowl, combine sugars, shortening, peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla. In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir into sugar/shortening mixture. Add oatmeal and chocolate chips and M&M’s. Batter will be very stiff. Drop onto cookie sheet. You can make these really large (i.e. Monster Cookies), or just regular size. Bake at 350 degrees. Time will vary with size. Regular size is usually around 10 minutes.

Elizabeth

Day Trippin’

2009-10-20T21:18:00.001-04:00

We’ve been taking advantage of the fall weather and taking a few weekend day trips. We started with a quick trip into New Hampshire and then just over the state line into Vermont. Along the way we saw Alpacas, pumpkins, and the beginnings of some fall colors.

Some from a distance…and…

…some up close.

According to the recent news reports, the New England pumpkin crop has suffered this year. So I was expecting to see a smaller number of pumpkins at the local farm stands, but when we stopped at an apple orchard, I wasn’t quite prepared for this! We were greeted with some pretty slim pumpkin pickings…

But then down the road, we saw this…

I snatched up a few for my front porch, but we will still need to get a “big one” for carving the traditional jack-o-lantern closer to Halloween. Have you seen some of the pumpkin carving patterns over at Martha Stewart? Have you tried any? I don’t know that my talent runs in that direction, but they are impressive.

As the leaves begin to fall, my sewing machine has been humming, too. I fell in love with Happy Zombie's Poochie Bags! They are very cute – and fun to make to boot! This one I made for a friend as a “thank you” for all her advice and encouragement. She is an unbelievable knitter, so I filled it with some great yarn I had thrifted. (She’s a great thrifter too, so she was doubly appreciative!)

I really, really like these bags. They are a great size, but in case you might want a smaller tote, Monica has also written up an additional pattern for a mini version. The Itty Bitty Poochies are very sweet, too. I am already planning several of these for teacher gifts at Christmas.

I only used two fabrics for mine (instead of three), but I really think you could get super creative with this pattern. I think it is an ideal pattern if you only have a little bit of a favorite fabric, as you could easily line the inside of the bag and pockets (and even make the straps) with a solid. I also was thinking that for the lining and the pockets, you could experiment with some repurposed shirts or pants – or even a blanket or coat. Lots of possibilities indeed!

Sewing and road trips – does it get any better than that? Just last weekend we were off on another adventure a little closer to home.

Still here…

2009-09-26T08:48:00.001-04:00

Boy, it’s been a long time since I posted. Summer has slipped away. The kids have started school, vacations are over, family reunions have come and gone, and slowly, we are settling into the rhythm of fall.

I have been working on items for my etsy shop, just not as fast as I would like! And…I am still plugging away on my nine patch from Crazy Mom Quilts blog. I think many of the quilters are on their second (or maybe it’s their third?!!) quilt by now. I just keep on keepin’ on – making a few blocks here and there as I get the chance.

I’m up to 59 blocks, and I’m still aiming for 72. I’m getting closer! I spread them out on a white bedspread the other day to help me “try out” the white sashing, and I really like it. I think I’m simply going to follow Amanda Jean's suggestions, including the scrappy border.

As apple season begins, I’ll leave you with a common treat that I sometimes forget. It smells so good and takes the chill off the house while it’s baking. I know they make little baking pans for these, even some for the microwave, but I still like to do them in the oven!

Baked Stuffed Apples

4 large baking

about 1/4 – 1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup raisins, walnuts, or pecans (or a mix)

cinnamon

nutmeg

butter

about 1/2 cup water

Core apples. Mix brown sugar, nuts and/or raisins and spices. Divide evenly between apples and pack into the hollowed-out center. Dot each with butter. Place in baking pan and pour the 1/2 cup water around the apples. Cover with foil and bake at 375 until tender and heated through. Time will vary with size and type of apples. 30 – 60 minutes. You can also slice the apples as if for pie and mix all ingredients together except for the water. Place in a greased dish, cover with foil or lid, and bake until tender. Tastes just like the inside of an apple pie, only better!

Happy Fall!

Elizabeth

Lobsters and Baby Quilts!

2009-08-19T15:05:00.001-04:00

I shouldn’t have ever complained about the cool weather we have had this summer. This hot and humid stretch is still here and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. It’s the sticky, humidity I wish would go away! Although, I have to admit, it feels quite like the Illinois weather I grew up with. On the bright side, it has been excellent weather for the beach. My sister was visiting last week and we did a little beach-going and local sightseeing, while enjoying some fresh seafood. We didn’t partake of these beauties, they were a little too out of our price range, but it looks like someone got to savor one!

I have had an Etsy shop for quite a while now, but have yet to list anything. My goal for this month is to remedy that. I have been working on some baby quilts and other baby items – hats, bibs, burpcloths – all the usual suspects.

Some are made with vintage sheets and linens, some with repurposed fabric, and some with nice, soft quilting cottons. These are two quilt tops awaiting their backing, quilting, and binding. I know these pictures are soooo bad. I’m going to have to work on this before I list anything. I’ve seen several good articles on Etsy. I think I will start there.

Elizabeth

Apron inspiration

2009-08-17T14:26:00.001-04:00

I was inspired by Jodi's apron that she made for a recent contest (and for which she was a winner!). I had been wanting to make an apron for a gift, but couldn’t make up my mind on a pattern. Jodi used the Apron-in-an-Hour pattern - the pattern can be found here - and it really does make up in an hour! This is definitely on my list to make for future gifts.

It’s hard to tell with my limited photo skills and camera quality, but the main fabric of the apron has tiny, polka-dotted mushrooms on a muted green background. I used a multi-colored, zig-zag stripe I had in my stash for the lower band and the ties. Since it only uses a fat quarter for the apron panel, this is now going to give me an excuse to buy all those novelty fat quarter prints I’m always drooling over. I really, really love this pattern, and I am grateful to both Jodi for inspiring me to try it, and to Stop Staring and Start Sewing for her generosity in sharing it with all of blogland.

The apron became a birthday gift for my sister, and I think she loved it. Since we live far apart, I hope it brings her a smile when she wears it. There’s nothing like bein’ in the kitchen with family, even if it’s only in spirit!

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #7

2009-08-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

I’ve saved one of my favorites for last. At our house we like to drizzle this with some hot fudge or chocolate sauce. You can also substitute a chocolate cookie crust for the graham cracker.

Peanut Butter Pie

8 oz. whipped topping

2 (8 0z. each) cream cheese, softened

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup peanut butter

1 graham cracker crust (or chocolate)

In large bowl, combine whipped topping, cream cheese, sugar, and peanut butter using a wooden spoon. When mixed, spoon into pie shell. Refrigerate several hours.

I hope you have enjoyed the past weeks’ worth of “Cool Treats” as much as I have had sharing them with you.

Happy Weekend!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #6

2009-08-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

You didn’t think I’d only post one chocolate recipe, did you?!!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Refrigerator Dessert

1 package chocolate chip cookies (example Chips Ahoy or similar, store brand is fine)

1/2 cup butter

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened

1 large container Cool Whip

1 (3 oz.) package instant butterscotch pudding

1 (3 oz.) package chocolate pudding

Crush all cookies, reserving 1 cup crumbs for topping. Melt butter and mix with rest of crumbs. Press into a 9”x13” pan. Refrigerate. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese with approximately 3/4 of the whipped topping. Spread onto crust. Refrigerate. Meanwhile, mix butterscotch pudding as directed and spread on top of whipped topping mixture. Mix chocolate pudding as directed and spread on top of butterscotch pudding. Spread rest of whipped topping over all and sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs. Cover and refrigerate over night.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #5

2009-08-13T08:00:00.000-04:00

This one is a little more labor intensive, but very worth it!

Creamy Ladyfinger Cheesecake

1 (40z.) package cream cheese

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese

3/4 cup sugar

2 teaspoon vanilla

1 pint whipping cream

2 packages lady fingers

1 can cherry pie filling or fresh strawberries

Cream the cheese, sugar and vanilla with wooden spoon. Whip cream in separate bowl until thick, fold into cheese mixture slowly. Line a spring form or angel food pan with lady fingers, covering sides as well as bottom. Pour cheese mixture into pan and refrigerate. When well chilled, top cake with cherry filling.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #4

2009-08-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

An oldie, but goodie…..

Five Cup Fruit Salad

1 cup coconut

1 cup mandarin oranges, drained

1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup miniature marshmallows

1 cup sour cream

Mix all in large bowl. Cover and chill for several hours.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #3

2009-08-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Here’s one that is a little fancier. I wish I had a picture to share of these - they are very pretty!

Lemon Slush Cups

3 large lemons

15 ice cubes

1 (6 oz.) can of frozen pink lemonade concentrate

1 Tablespoon sugar

Blueberries

Cut lemons in half. Twist on juicer to squeeze out juice. Measure and save 2 Tablespoons lemon juice. Scoop out insides of lemon skins (pulp) with spoon to make clean lemon “cups.” Cut thin slice off of each bottom so cups will sit flat. Crush ice cubes. Combine pink lemonade with 2 Tablespoons lemon juice and sugar in blender. Add ice and blend until smooth. Spoon into lemon cups and decorate with blueberries.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats #2

2009-08-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

And now for something chocolate…..

Chocolate Mallow Malt Pie

1 short bread pie shell

2 cups miniature marshmallows

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup milk (do not use skim)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup whipping cream

1/4 cup chocolate or vanilla flavored malted milk powder

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 cup chopped pecans

In top of double boiler, combine marshmallows, chocolate chips, milk, and salt. Cook over hot water, stirring occasionally, until marshmallows and chocolate chips are melted. Remove from heat and cool until slightly thickened. In small mixing bowl, combine whipping cream, malted milk powder, and vanilla. Beat until very thick. Fold in chocolate-marshmallow mixture. Spoon into baked pastry shell. Sprinkle chopped pecans around edge of pie. Chill several hours or overnight.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Cool Treats Week

2009-08-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Since we are deep into the summer, and the temperatures seem to continue to climb, I thought I’d share a week’s worth of cool treats. I know my sweet tooth doesn’t go away with the heat, and a trip to the Dairy Queen isn’t always possible, so each day this week I will post a no-bake, cool treat.

Cranberry Parfait Pie

1 graham cracker or shortbread crust

3/4 cup cranberry juice cocktail

1 (3 0z.) package lemon jello

1 (16 oz.) can whole cranberry sauce

1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel (optional)

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

1 pint vanilla ice cream

whipped cream

In saucepan heat cranberry juice to boiling, remove from heat. Add jello and stir until dissolved. Pour mixture into large mixing bowl. Stir in cranberry sauce, lemon peel, and lemon juice. Add ice cream by large spoonfuls, and stir until melted. Chill mixture until mixture mounds when spooned. Spread into pie shell. Chill several hours or overnight. Dollop each serving with whipped cream.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Crochet a little

2009-08-06T09:55:00.000-04:00

Over the past winter and spring, I decided to try and teach myself how to crochet. Evidently I felt I needed yet one more iron in the fire! I at least had the sense enough to start small and stay small. After learning a few of the basic stitches, I came up with the idea to make cotton coasters from left over yarn. (I like to knit cotton washcloths, too!) With four kids, I am constantly on the go, getting them to and from school and other activities. I usually try to grab my yarn bag when we leave the house so that I have something to work on when I have to wait. These, like the washcloths, were small and very portable.

Once you get going, they are super easy to make and work great under your glass of summertime iced tea! Here’s how I did mine – I adapted this a little after I wasn’t always consistent in my finished size. Mine certainly aren’t perfect, but they were fun and fast to make! If you have never crocheted before, and think you might want to try, check out About.com's crochet site.

Crocheted Cotton Coasters

Using a cotton, worsted-weight yarn, Chain 4.

Round One: Make 11 Double Crochet (dc) into the fourth chain from hook. Slip stitch to join.

Round Two: Chain 3. Double Crochet into the slip stitch used to join the previous round. 2 Double Crochet into next dc, continue dc’ing in each dc around the circle, ending again with a slip stitch to join.

Round Three: Chain 3. Now this is the round I sometimes had to adjust as I would get “waves” and needed to use fewer dc’s. I think it all depended on the particular yarn and my tension – the yarn tension, that is! Adjust as you go along, knowing each one might be different. DC into slip stitch. *DC into next dc, 2 dc into each of the next two dc, dc into next dc, 2 dc into next dc. Repeat from * around entire circle, ending with slip stitch to join.

If you have really small cups/glasses, you might want to end after round three. I wanted mine on the larger size, so I went with one more round.

Round Four: Chain 3. DC into slip stitch. *DC into next dc, 2 dc into next dc. Repeat from * Join with slip stitch. Fasten yarn and weave in ends.

The colors make me happy,and they coordinate well with my small collection of Fiestaware, too! :)

Elizabeth

Keeping cool with the crock pot…

2009-08-04T22:05:00.001-04:00

With the arrival of the heat and humidity, and the absence of central air, the crock pot sees extra heavy rotation in our house. Tonight’s menu consisted of Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, sliced watermelon, and a green salad.

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

6 – 8 slices of ham: I just use whatever I have on hand – sometimes it’s deli slices, sometimes I have a few leftover slices or chunks from a large ham, or sometimes I have even used a small can (tuna size) of chopped ham. You can even leave out the ham and make it a vegetarian meal.

10 – 14 medium sized potatoes, scrubbed and sliced thin (skin left on)

1 large onion, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

6 slices of American cheese or about 1 cup shredded cheese of your choice

2 cans of cream soup (celery, mushroom, chicken, etc.)

Put half of the ham, potatoes, onion, and cheese in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add second layer of ham, potatoes, onion, and cheese. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread undiluted soup on top. Replace cover and cook on High approximately 4 hours. Leftovers reheat well.

Happy Crocking!

Elizabeth

Quilting

2009-08-02T10:26:00.001-04:00

I finished a quilt top! In older pattern/quilting books, I’ve seen this rail fence pattern labeled as The Spirit of St. Louis. I assume that the “St. Louis” was an airplane and that the color placement resembles the propellers. But this is only a guess as I haven’t been able to find a lot of history on this particular block. I’ve also wondered if it had anything to do with the World’s Fair in St. Louis, MO.

While I’ve been “wondering” instead of sewing, my nine-patches for Amanda Jean's have been sitting. I am soooo behind on this project, and I was so enthused when I started. I still love the colors, and I have almost all of the squares cut, but I am moving at a snail’s pace!

I’ve also been working on a couple of bags. I am almost finished with the Romantic Patchwork Handbag from Fig Tree Quilts Easiest Handbags Ever.

I really like how the body turned out – it is just a basic quilted rectangle bag, but I’m not happy with the handles. I’ve finished them, but haven’t sewn them on. I am thinking of narrowing them a bit. I also need to make the covered cardboard insert for the bottom of the bag to make it sit flat. The pattern also suggested that you could bind the inside seams of the bag for a more “finished” look, and I definitely will do that next time.

I am headed to the New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, MA this afternoon. I haven’t been there before and am anxious to take a tour. Next week they are having a huge festival which looks amazing!

Elizabeth

Flea Market and Thrift Store Finds

2009-07-28T22:37:00.001-04:00

I found some needles! I found some needles!! For over a month I have been bidding on numerous lots of knitting needles and crochet hooks on ebay, but I kept getting outbid at the last minute. Finally at a flea market, I hit the jackpot! Two lots of needles and hooks for less than what I had been leaving as my maximum bid!! It’s been fun to sort through them and match them up. Some were brand new and still in their original paper sleeve. Look at those huge yellow needles – what will I ever knit on those!?? I wonder if they all came from the same person?

Then, on another thrifting adventure, my luck continued, as I found this . .. 10 skeins of virgin wool from Scotland, along with a piece of wool fabric!!! The picture doesn’t do justice to the gorgeous indigo color of this wool. And look at the original price tag, $70.00!!

I got the whole bag for $6.00! I would love to make this into a shawl for the fall. I think there is enough fabric for a skirt, too.

I love it when I find great stuff like this!

Happy Thrifting,

Elizabeth

In a pickle

2009-07-24T19:03:00.001-04:00

A farmer’s market recently opened in our neighborhood. It is open every Friday from 3 – 7 and I try to stop by even if it is just to browse. We live in the city, but we grew up in the rural, agriculturally-centered, Midwest. Now, although I love the market dearly, –especially for the sense of community it is promoting in our neighborhood- I still have a hard time paying big city prices for fresh produce! Yet, on the other hand, it is hard to not drool over the freshness and quality that I just can’t get at the grocery store. So, as a compromise, each visit I try and treat our family to one item that is at the height of its season. This week it was pickling cucumbers. They looked nice and the price was right: 3 for $1.

I used a standard freezer pickle recipe. It uses only a few ingredients and makes up quickly. I made a batch and a half which used only 6 of my pickling cukes.

Freezer Pickles

2 cups water

2 cups sugar

1 cup white vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

5 cups cucumbers sliced very thin with skin left on.

In saucepan, combine water, sugar, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Turn off heat and let cool. Meanwhile, wash and slice cucumbers. Place sliced cucumbers in freezer containers leaving 2 inches headspace for expansion. Divide syrup amongst containers, (do not overfill, but make sure cucumbers are mostly covered). Crumple a square of waxed paper and place over syrup-covered cucumbers (see picture below), cover with tight-fitting lid, and freeze. Thaw to serve. Makes about 5 pints.

These are going to be a sweet, bread & butter type pickle. They are good by themselves or excellent on a hamburger, tuna salad, or a cold roast beef sandwich.

Happy Pickling!

Elizabeth

Slowly, but surely…

2009-07-22T14:32:00.001-04:00

I am working on my quilt-a-long projects. Slow and steady, steady and slow has been my mantra for the last few weeks. I have finally gotten my strips sewn together and cut into blocks for Old Red Barn's quilt-a-long. Whenever I sew more than 3 or 4 strips together, I get some distortion. I always make sure I alternate sewing direction with each strip, but it doesn’t seem to help. The next time I do strip piecing I’m going to try sewing groups of three strips together and then join them with another group of three (or two, etc).

Of course, I started another project, too. This one is giving more immediate gratification - I am almost done! It is for a small, strip-pieced bag found here.

The pattern is intended for use with the pre-cut Moda HoneyBun strips, but I simply cut my own. I also didn’t use the fusible fleece called for in the pattern (simply because I didn’t have any), but instead used a sew-in, heavy weight interfacing. I really like the “body” that the interfacing gives to the bag and will definitely use it again if I make more of these. (I am thinking of making several for Christmas gifts.)

Summer is flying by, although we haven’t seen much of summer weather here in the New England states. It is hard to believe August 1 is just around the corner! The girls have been a big help this summer and, as a result, I have let them experiment a bit more in the kitchen department. DD#1 made this dessert a few weeks ago. Since it uses the crock-pot (and, in my humble opinion, is one of the greatest inventions known to man!), it’s nice for the summer months as it doesn’t heat up the kitchen!

Triple Chocolate Mess

1 package chocolate cake mix

2 cups sour cream

1 small package chocolate pudding

1 cup chocolate chips

3/4 cup oil

4 eggs

1 cup water

Grease or spray crock-pot with oil/butter. In large mixing bowl, mix all ingredients. Pour into crock-pot. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream. Serves 8.

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Quilt-Along-Progress

2009-06-22T21:18:00.001-04:00

I am participating in two quilt-alongs right now – Dana's and Amanda Jean's – and sadly, I’m behind in both!

These are my fabrics for Old Red Barn Co.and I haven’t taken any more pics of my nine patches. I have 3 more strip sets to sew together, and 45 more nine patches. On the bright side, though, everything is cut out!!! Assembly line time, it is. Anyone else behind, too?

Elizabeth

La Mer

2009-06-19T21:34:00.001-04:00

We’ve lived on the coast for four years now. Living most of my life in the midwest where the bodies of water consisted of lakes and rivers, I am entranced by the sea. One of the first things we did when we moved out here was to locate a few beaches and explore. We have a few favorites, but truly, there is something to love at all of them. They each of their own personality

Another thing we try to do,is to visit during the different seasons. The mellowness of fall is probably my favorite, but, then again, there’s nothing like the warmth of the sun in early summer at the start of beach season. To the kids, it doesn’t matter – they love them all. We live in the city, and trips to the beach make me long for a tiny cottage by the sea. It sounds so cliche – do all women dream of this? I can clearly envision picket fences and beach roses. Screen doors and lemonade. Rocking chairs and old quilts on weathered porches. The clean, summer smell of ivory soap and cotton pajamas on sleeping children. Dusk encroaching and the quiet murmur of evening conversations. Sweet dreams, indeed.

For now,however, we pack our buckets and shovels, beach chairs, towels, sunscreen, books, our cooler full of snacks and drinks, and drive to the sea. She always welcomes us no matter how we arrive.

The taste of the salt in the air is like nothing else I have experienced. It envelopes you and seeps into your skin. It must be therapeutic for your body as well as your mind. Even when it’s cold, I shed my shoes and let the sand run through my toes.

Someday I’ll go to the seashore with a notebook and write. Just try to listen and simply write what the sea tells me.

The Tide

by Marjorie Wilson

Sometimes we peep beneath the blinds

And through the window bars,

We see the dew like silver clouds:

We see the lighted stars.

And down among the sea-weed pools

Where little fishes hide,

Swift coming through the dark we hear

The footsteps of the tide.

We know, when night is tucked away,

To-morrow there will be

Across the flat and shining sand

The footprints of the sea.

_-Elizabeth

Pile On the Pancakes

2009-06-12T19:52:00.001-04:00

We like pancakes. We have them a lot around our house. And sometimes, we even have them for a quick and thrifty dinner. Over the years, I have found several favorites. Here’s a couple…

Delicious Pancakes

1 1/4 cups flour

1 teaspoon sugar

1/3 cup melted butter, or oil

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

2 eggs

1 1/2 Tablespoon baking powder

In large batter bowl, beat eggs slightly. In separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. To the eggs, add butter and milk. Add dry ingredients. Mix only until all the dry ingredients are mixed in. Bake on hot oiled griddle.

***For our family of six, I have to triple the above recipe; however, the batter will keep for a couple of days in the refrigerator if you have any leftover. On the rare occasions that we have any pancakes left, we will eat them cold out of the fridge for a snack, or as a quick, hot weekday breakfast – just pop them in the microwave or toaster.

This second recipe is from an old, southern-style cookbook, and I love it because it uses baking soda versus baking powder. I always seem to run out of baking powder, but not baking soda, so this recipe saves me a trip to the store!

Georgia Flapjacks

2 cups flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 Tablespoon sugar

2 eggs

2 cups sour milk (you can use buttermilk, yogurt or sour cream thinned with a little milk, or 4 Tablespoons vinegar plus enough milk to make 2 cups)

1 1/2 Tablespoons melted butter

In large bowl, whisk together the flour, soda, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, beat eggs lightly, add milk, and then add to dry ingredients. Mix with a whisk, then add melted butter. Heat an oiled griddle, ladle a 1/4 cupful of batter onto the griddle, and cook until bubbles start to “pop” and underside is nicely browned. Flip pancakes and cook until done.

***Again, I need to triple this recipe for my family of six.

Pancakes are pretty foolproof, but the more you make, the better pancake chef you become. Martha Stewart has a good article about the art of the perfect pancake, and so does this site. My grandmother always made pancakes for us when she would come to stay, and we were always wowed by her ability to shape them into all sorts of creatures. Because, you know, pancakes always taste better when they’re shaped like a bear, or a turtle, or a heart, or a robot, or anything a grandma can think up!

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Fabric, Inspiration, & Sitting Still

2009-06-11T20:24:00.001-04:00

I ran into an amazing deal on a collection of fabric at my local fabric store. Too good to pass up…waaaay too good. They are not my usual colors, but I was drawn to them anyway. Of course, now I’m itching to sew them into something, but I don’t know what…I need inspiration. I have a yard each, and it is from the Eden Collection. (Sorry for the blurry picture.) I’ve been eyeing the coffee cozies that have been popping up here and there over the past year, and I really liked Erin's idea to give them as end of the year teacher gifts. But, can I handle the pressure of one more item on the to-do list?!! My brother and sis-in-law are expecting their first child in early September, so I’ve also thought about Rae's Itty-bitty-baby-dress. I’ve also been thinking of bags or summer shirts or sun-dresses for my own girls.

I really should be working on my quilt for Dana's quilt-along, or my nine patches for Amanda Jean's quilt-along. I really should just let this new fabric sit and make friends with all of the other fabric in my stash. Sometimes that’s a really hard thing to do – to just let something sit, that is. It seems that the more “irons in the fire” I have, the more I want to add another, and another, and another. I need to remember that sitting can be a good thing.

Whoa.

Hold up.

Somehow I went from asking for inspiration to telling myself to slow down. I didn’t intend for this to get philosophical, but yet it did. (It’s funny, this process of putting thoughts into print. Quite uncanny in how it brings out your unconscious feelings. Gonna have to get used to that for sure!) I’m remembering now about reading something a while back that stated the “busyness” of life can hinder and even block the flow of creativity. Definitely something to ponder.

So…I’m off to get the kids to bed, curl up on the couch with a cup of tea, and just sit.

-Elizabeth

Old Red Barn Quilt Along 2009!

2009-05-21T08:49:00.001-04:00

Oh! My! Gosh! Have you seen the new Quilt Along that Dana over at Old Red Barn Co. is hosting? It is unbelievable…I can’t even think of another word for it…simply unbelievable. Go and go now. Go see what it is all about, and join in on the unbelievable fun.

~Elizabeth~

Craft Hope Dolls

2009-05-20T20:41:00.001-04:00

A few days ago, I was searching my way through blogland when I came upon Jade over at Craft Hope and her wonderful doll project for the Casa Bernabe Orphanage in Nicaragua. The stories and photos throughout her site are so heart-touching and full of love, all of them illustrating their mission of helping others through handmade projects. Be prepared, you will want to sew at least a dozen dolls – if not more!

I’m trying to make this a family project, with all four of the kids sewing their own doll to send. I will probably need a lot of patience to see this through! But nonetheless, we got started last night. One doll cut out and 4 more to go!

We are using the free pattern at Make Baby Stuff. It’s straightforward and I think my kids will be able to handle sewing the seams with minimal(hopefully!) guidance.

This is ds#1’s doll all set to be sewn. He wanted to make a boy doll in case there were boys at the orphanage, too. I assured him that there probably were boys living there, and that I was sure they would appreciate having a boy doll. So we adjusted the pattern a little to reflect more of a shirt rather than a skirt – hopefully it will work! I was really surprised (and proud) of his conversation while we worked. He asked a lot of questions about the orphanage, why the kids were living there, what was it like living there, and even about the type of clothing they wore – all of it packaged together makes for some pretty heavy stuff for a 10 year old! I’m keeping my fingers crossed that our next sewing session goes as smoothly!

~Elizabeth~

A Time for Knitting

2009-05-17T05:58:00.000-04:00

Right now I am in a knitting mood. It’s like having another appendage – it’s always with me. I carry at least one project with me at all times, and it acts as my security blanket. The thing is, I’m a relatively new knitter. I haven’t really graduated beyond anything square, and nothing very large yet. I’ve only this week added decreasing and increasing to my meager list of skills, but it hasn’t really bothered me. I’m quite content knitting up dishcloth after dishcloth. It’s really just the process, the holding of the yarn, and the repetitive, soothing movement of each stitch. Calming stuff indeed.

Elizabeth

Nine Patch Quilt-A-Long Progress

2009-05-14T19:51:00.001-04:00

Well, I’m a little behind, but here is my first set of nine patches for the block-a-day quilt-a-long being hosted by Crazy Mom Quilts. I decided to do my blocks in my scraps of 30’s fabrics. I have thirteen sewn together, and several more cut out, waiting to be sewn. I didn’t realize I had so much yellow and purple! I hope it doesn’t overpower the quilt as I was really hoping for a mix of color. But I am determined to only use my scraps, so hopefully it will all meld together in the end. (I have also taken her advice and been cutting extra squares for the border. )

I’ve really been enjoying visiting all the blogs of the ladies participating in this project. As always, it is so fun to see everyone’s ideas and creative spirit. I encourage you to go take a look, too.

On the newbie blogging front, I’m struggling a little in finding “my voice” . I re-read the few things I’ve written, and find myself very self-conscious. I have to remind myself that settling in takes time.

Much peace,

Elizabeth