tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36078585323345142012024-02-26T00:39:24.287-08:00Diamon NaturalsWelcome to my blog... you'll find patterns, recipes and maybe a poem here and there, with lots of friendly chatter. The focus may be on quilting, knitting, crocheting, beading... or whatever comes to mind that day! Join me for a cup of tea or coffee; I hope you enjoy our time together.Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-48433555135383899192020-05-07T05:00:00.000-07:002020-05-13T16:25:17.966-07:00Masks<br />
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Now, with
many areas requiring the use of masks in public, along with social distancing,
I watched a lot of you-tube videos before starting to sew masks, and developed
my own version, using parts of various masks I saw on the videos. My oldest
daughter makes them with elastic that goes around the head, rather than around
the ears, and I liked that idea, so that’s how I make mine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Masks, with
filter pocket:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Materials: </div>
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fat quarter or 9" strip of 40" fabric</div>
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24" of 1/4" elastic</div>
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2 plastic-coated wire twist ties, layered together</div>
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Scissors or rotary cutter with mat</div>
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ruler</div>
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sewing machine</div>
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thread</div>
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One fat
quarter makes 2 complete masks with literally no waste, if the fat quarters are
truly 18” x 21”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d0IWAtNb_jIOdCd9mqkPHtblQX_yRQnxKzZs-cLerw3c1u8ZMyFzgoOu-DwvalYTOZ3ayp97BlibRUVm3L7Hj7iXWm1_5yDQr10Ru9a3MBY9Cn29A0xMCw8W9WGm8fYbJcn3RThbmeY/s1600/DSCN0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d0IWAtNb_jIOdCd9mqkPHtblQX_yRQnxKzZs-cLerw3c1u8ZMyFzgoOu-DwvalYTOZ3ayp97BlibRUVm3L7Hj7iXWm1_5yDQr10Ru9a3MBY9Cn29A0xMCw8W9WGm8fYbJcn3RThbmeY/s200/DSCN0071.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Cut fat
quarter down the middle, making 2 rectangles, 9” x 21”.<br />
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Cut the 21”
length into three 7” pieces. It’s helpful to cut these two strips right sides together,
so the pairs are ready for marking and sewing.</div>
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This results
in six rectangles, each 7” x 9”. Three pieces are needed for each mask, 2 for the
back and one for the front.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mark a line in the middle of the back of one of the 7" sides, about 2-3/4” long, from the top and bottom, leaving the middle part without a line.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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These are the
sewing lines for the back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put two
rectangles, right sides together with wrong sides facing outward, and sew along each of the short lines, back stitching to reinforce the stitching at the end of the line that is
at the middle portion of the mask. The portion that is not sewn will form the slit for inserting a filter, if one is desired.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fold one
side of the back over to the outside edge, with the stitching inside the fold.
Flip over and repeat for the other side. The slit in the middle is now exposed,
and the right side of the fabric is showing on both sides of the backing.
Press.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7TUAy8wSZ5K6IJvlSiysTmBhPw8lUCzL_kHa_3YmUIztykyUccl3Tn_Jp27ctlp7y3w9hOXjrSqmol9MrcvFpDeiMxK6owgtIoC7vEPbSdr-R6YIVuQH1kGpClub90yBfXyiOfajKxQ/s1600/DSCN0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7TUAy8wSZ5K6IJvlSiysTmBhPw8lUCzL_kHa_3YmUIztykyUccl3Tn_Jp27ctlp7y3w9hOXjrSqmol9MrcvFpDeiMxK6owgtIoC7vEPbSdr-R6YIVuQH1kGpClub90yBfXyiOfajKxQ/s200/DSCN0085.JPG" width="200" /></a>Cut two 12”
pieces of ¼” elastic. Pin elastic about ¾” from edge of backing, with slit
horizontal to the elastic bands. Be careful not to twist elastic bands. Pin
front to back, right sides together, and </div>
stitch ¼” from edges all the way
around, taking care not to catch the long part of the elastic in your seam.<br />
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Remove pins, and clip all four corners to reduce the bulk. Turn right
side out through the slit in the back. Carefully poke all four corners out. Press well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiNRGAY7NIT5T-MHERiVXY1CM8nTExm3ZXxh-a_wmaZqnra7tVuQqrJY5C-Ph3y4TxNLKw1Xv6i3zf1u1Hd3W5fsYT-KG3ZQenYZ662kjNVb8fbrfJvjCNJyzh3PNkT1NRfuvKRN7X90/s1600/DSCN0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiNRGAY7NIT5T-MHERiVXY1CM8nTExm3ZXxh-a_wmaZqnra7tVuQqrJY5C-Ph3y4TxNLKw1Xv6i3zf1u1Hd3W5fsYT-KG3ZQenYZ662kjNVb8fbrfJvjCNJyzh3PNkT1NRfuvKRN7X90/s200/DSCN0088.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9C5kxPrJaDWID6bKEp0X_wf8qeDwhhrZBZR_rHrYSlQBtshf_asMLBk37IoyYKIpaKt5CvjfXhX5dphrLA93XK_4HxvHKqwcBcO47yxt5Yzf5_TB2UtzRx9P2U3irKXUV7wec1xqTokE/s1600/DSCN0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9C5kxPrJaDWID6bKEp0X_wf8qeDwhhrZBZR_rHrYSlQBtshf_asMLBk37IoyYKIpaKt5CvjfXhX5dphrLA93XK_4HxvHKqwcBcO47yxt5Yzf5_TB2UtzRx9P2U3irKXUV7wec1xqTokE/s200/DSCN0092.JPG" width="200" /></a>Layer 2
plastic-coated wire twist ties and insert into the slit in back, pushing them into the center of one
long side, clipping them into place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOAAJuELuRw5t8AUnbYr0srUU0Tdn8UR0dcWUZ9BFys5Bu2rUhyuXCvC7iCIu0KnlLD9Ot84DuNhIHZVIXPDQHBE076gJn9ATAlZGlwse6hyphenhyphenhCZVF3JJ3YpYWqYMPrCdNiFtCFBDE914/s1600/DSCN0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOAAJuELuRw5t8AUnbYr0srUU0Tdn8UR0dcWUZ9BFys5Bu2rUhyuXCvC7iCIu0KnlLD9Ot84DuNhIHZVIXPDQHBE076gJn9ATAlZGlwse6hyphenhyphenhCZVF3JJ3YpYWqYMPrCdNiFtCFBDE914/s200/DSCN0093.JPG" width="200" /></a>Using a
zig-zag stitch, stitch over the wire ties to secure them in place. These wire
ties will enable the wearer to shape the mask to the bridge of their nose. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJs8LQGzLHa8N3kUULgg2Dia2_12B0IMSSkpANw_uZuIz1dcSmpW4umR5zzcKxLRq-kcMLEynmIFkba5EKcJFnbWs0cu0uYMsX6NoBROkPxR7vGjo3ff7wp8jPDewP_z0qiu3X1J8m7KQ/s1600/DSCN0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJs8LQGzLHa8N3kUULgg2Dia2_12B0IMSSkpANw_uZuIz1dcSmpW4umR5zzcKxLRq-kcMLEynmIFkba5EKcJFnbWs0cu0uYMsX6NoBROkPxR7vGjo3ff7wp8jPDewP_z0qiu3X1J8m7KQ/s200/DSCN0089.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATcL6obipgxzR67re5aFg43wF6gxH5zz-wjIhybL_q7eElYp2Nx2ve5HKxIATds-KiKT1EaB02kpPqHCBM-1Tc7tUscq5Z3sOFuDGtXSuFRD80PBTiL5n4bI7x_dYoTj-D9MjN2_0glE/s1600/DSCN0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATcL6obipgxzR67re5aFg43wF6gxH5zz-wjIhybL_q7eElYp2Nx2ve5HKxIATds-KiKT1EaB02kpPqHCBM-1Tc7tUscq5Z3sOFuDGtXSuFRD80PBTiL5n4bI7x_dYoTj-D9MjN2_0glE/s200/DSCN0095.JPG" width="200" /></a>Form two
pleats in each side of the mask, with folds away from the center in front. It helps to
bring the pleat to the edge of the elastic. The side should measure about
3-1/2”, with both pleats in place. Sew a
generous ¼” seam along each side, stitching the pleats in place. Hint: I used a hem marker to make sure the mask measures close to 3-1/2", but you could also cut a template 3-1/2" long from a piece of cardboard (such as a cereal box) or a manila file folder.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNejxlhcNqbZRfeZVrSVXY2fXLcQUQF6afKDk39yI2vdbOrWy88xycjvtULuVoXwh164DKka6j-J0Bb85FMqJxiA8izkhUsmfZ5YY4HIhDn7slbf8vMuEuFkl2bEfVHIpdwwAmGjr-xk/s1600/DSCN0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNejxlhcNqbZRfeZVrSVXY2fXLcQUQF6afKDk39yI2vdbOrWy88xycjvtULuVoXwh164DKka6j-J0Bb85FMqJxiA8izkhUsmfZ5YY4HIhDn7slbf8vMuEuFkl2bEfVHIpdwwAmGjr-xk/s320/DSCN0099.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Topstitch
about 1/8” from all 4 sides. The mask is complete.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWrSwiV7t0TSH813lyF-nnbHWVnxdIN1ioXRJlidRi1HUOVzcHki5vDUuU5SNscbjD0U9O_gjQKHxu5eV_Ix8KiuAT_qahRK6VIxhGb07zUZT8HG2SeE_pwrHrimYnP7A4zhqjV6X0RXg/s1600/DSCN0101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWrSwiV7t0TSH813lyF-nnbHWVnxdIN1ioXRJlidRi1HUOVzcHki5vDUuU5SNscbjD0U9O_gjQKHxu5eV_Ix8KiuAT_qahRK6VIxhGb07zUZT8HG2SeE_pwrHrimYnP7A4zhqjV6X0RXg/s320/DSCN0101.JPG" width="320" /></a>I ordered
some Halyard fabric, which is supposed to be one of the best materials for filtering out
any virus or bacteria in the air. I read to make the filters 5” x 5”, so I cut
the fabric into squares that size (there are two layers that are not bonded) and
zig-zagged around them to join the layers.
The two layers are the same, but different colors, so you know which
side has been close to your face. This is the fabric hospitals use for
protecting sterilized tools, etc., and is not washable. It can be sterilized by
putting in a 165 degree oven for 30 minutes. Some people use other materials
for filters, such as interfacing or coffee filters. My daughter does not put a filter pocket in hers, but she bonds interfacing to the inside of the mask, giving it a third layer of protection. This mask has three layers of fabric, but the Halyard filter will offer additional protection, if you choose to use that.</div>
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I think life
as we knew it will change, probably for an extended time. If it will prevent
deaths, it is worth making some changes. Self-isolation is not a difficult
switch for me, since I seldom go anywhere. The difference is that now my family
does not come over regularly, and although they call to check on me daily, I
miss the human contact. We are a family of huggers, and hugs are in short
supply when I live alone. Tonight, my oldest daughter stopped over to bring me
some prescriptions and dinner from Chipotle’s… and picked up some more fabric
for making masks. In return, I got a big, warm hug that will last me for a few days! </div>
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My stash of fabric is coming in handy at this point! Many of
the quilters I know are making masks… some, by the hundreds, to donate where
needed. I’ve read some negative remarks on social media about people selling
masks. It makes me sad to read those comments, because fabric is not free, nor
is elastic or thread, and although some seamstresses have said it takes 10 minutes to make a mask, it takes me longer than that to cut and mark them! Many people have lost their jobs, or are on minimal pay
at this time. If some people can use their skills to help get through this
difficult period financially, then I think it’s wonderful they have this
opportunity. If they don’t need the money and donate their time and materials,
that’s wonderful, as well. It’s heartwarming to see how people are stepping up
to help where help is needed. Who knew that sewing would become a Super Power and our fabric stashes could be saving lives? Stay safe, where ever you may be... and wear your mask with pride! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SmM33Ojah5CbVlZQesnXRgPemqAVT5yarzfBOvIpjMH9t95XSmHnRtP57dJhE3xzu8wUPxzauqcdDlhFRjafFxASu7HGcrRLkoayGv20OAQDrw8gLzHyHz8Z_FphynSamHzCKtSxLEU/s1600/DSCN0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SmM33Ojah5CbVlZQesnXRgPemqAVT5yarzfBOvIpjMH9t95XSmHnRtP57dJhE3xzu8wUPxzauqcdDlhFRjafFxASu7HGcrRLkoayGv20OAQDrw8gLzHyHz8Z_FphynSamHzCKtSxLEU/s320/DSCN0069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-57733016782473272702019-01-25T11:00:00.000-08:002019-01-25T11:00:34.615-08:00Selvage Strip Snack Mat<br />
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Some inventive fabric designers have begun using clever
motifs instead of printing the color coordination “dots” on the selvage of the
fabric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Instead, they</span> often coordinate the color compatibility
choices using motifs that complement the fabric, with things such as
butterflies, flowers, leaves, animals, birds, fans, etc. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then other clever people came up with ideas
for using those selvages in innovative ways instead of tossing them into the
garbage can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Pictured below is my current pile of strips on the cutting mat.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboTQErQBCAH364gSjTISXKF5UcDfs4yv0xulmdN-ML5MaSzUb03q_aZ1u1VrubHf5_xNoLDxwMR19ZB7g82YCJhqlYoXWH3AS2kXJtsk0FXHF2wlBFY6ymdw9OUEQTthIHSNf8X_qo3w/s1600/selvedge+pile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboTQErQBCAH364gSjTISXKF5UcDfs4yv0xulmdN-ML5MaSzUb03q_aZ1u1VrubHf5_xNoLDxwMR19ZB7g82YCJhqlYoXWH3AS2kXJtsk0FXHF2wlBFY6ymdw9OUEQTthIHSNf8X_qo3w/s200/selvedge+pile.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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Incidentally, there appear to be two spellings of selvedge... or selvage... and each of them is acceptable, not to be confused with salvage, which refers to rescued property. One of my friends surprised
me with an adorable pincushion made of selvage strips, and said there is a
myriad of ideas on Pinterest for using these selvages in ways we would never imagine! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-j2JsHBRcCMNSvFdNPdE-yoh-SXmdq_oXjoOKNeb4Ga1C7ReZ7lO1FDxnchTvw3PeTFzFfH0CWz2vjDRH6z37zjHDMhkEYgpSeVAGrRW1cIvwlbhRpwIGBfjEZ_RBksVKJ1PIDtoVJbI/s1600/pincushion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-j2JsHBRcCMNSvFdNPdE-yoh-SXmdq_oXjoOKNeb4Ga1C7ReZ7lO1FDxnchTvw3PeTFzFfH0CWz2vjDRH6z37zjHDMhkEYgpSeVAGrRW1cIvwlbhRpwIGBfjEZ_RBksVKJ1PIDtoVJbI/s320/pincushion.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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A Minnesota quilter on one of my quilting lists said she makes
orphan quilt blocks into 12” x 18” place mats, and donates them to a Meals on
Wheels program, where they are given to shut-ins when the meals are delivered. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That sparked an idea in my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love snack mats, or mug rugs, to set my
mugs and glasses on that protect my furniture… and thought it would be neat to make them out
of the selvage strips. Last night, I treated myself to an evening of “fun”
sewing… and stitched up a couple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
can be made in any size you choose… and I think the strips would be great for
making a set of coasters with 5” charm squares as the backing, to give as a
gift for someone special. It would be a perfect way to use leftover charm
squares, as well as using leftover batting pieces. I love the colorful mats,
but perhaps no one would appreciate them as much as another quilter! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6RnYQHLOgmOvupSCOKIehaphuG4rJYCyHANQvP7b_PBZyKApUZ3E1nwb8ojKTN0l4F-LEIPgnP4h-3JY4GqHg9Tf0YfC9uA2gwAi96iFV5BoZ3tFQUBf-w1bUl_3w6oR7A3SyidVooE/s1600/backing+and+batting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1225" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6RnYQHLOgmOvupSCOKIehaphuG4rJYCyHANQvP7b_PBZyKApUZ3E1nwb8ojKTN0l4F-LEIPgnP4h-3JY4GqHg9Tf0YfC9uA2gwAi96iFV5BoZ3tFQUBf-w1bUl_3w6oR7A3SyidVooE/s200/backing+and+batting.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKrmGnPm2b81qYDGrRWhKRHngVDisz7kHfISSv2hcIc2VfS3Ks7KZ3zC0qy_cyTtPH4vVZCtnuX8RMkaV3l8QX4KH0k9yg2pr-HOv1NVOgmVI-SC3W9FaoKj_keBGhp_fQjvx_9psxrg/s1600/pinned+and+ready+to+begin+sewing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1225" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKrmGnPm2b81qYDGrRWhKRHngVDisz7kHfISSv2hcIc2VfS3Ks7KZ3zC0qy_cyTtPH4vVZCtnuX8RMkaV3l8QX4KH0k9yg2pr-HOv1NVOgmVI-SC3W9FaoKj_keBGhp_fQjvx_9psxrg/s200/pinned+and+ready+to+begin+sewing.jpg" width="200" /></a>Here’s how I made mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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Cut the backing and batting to the desired size. My examples
are 10” squares. Lay the batting on the wrong side of the backing. </div>
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See photo on left.</div>
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Place one pin on each of the 4 sides to keep
the layers in place while you begin sewing strips on the batting, shown above on right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMXqDAf4lEDmQ3QIGmIkDu_a6ryWXiQq_tZoxdGKUybbGZfawSLTVJ9aILfxR95E-q_wlqiy6twaI7i-tAXpLLUNa2AbdieE9Zi82m_mxgTDMR1TGkIH5DxBTxU86UX5e8mlscEhCsdg/s1600/sewing+strips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="689" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMXqDAf4lEDmQ3QIGmIkDu_a6ryWXiQq_tZoxdGKUybbGZfawSLTVJ9aILfxR95E-q_wlqiy6twaI7i-tAXpLLUNa2AbdieE9Zi82m_mxgTDMR1TGkIH5DxBTxU86UX5e8mlscEhCsdg/s320/sewing+strips.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Begin by
placing one strip diagonally across the center of the batting side. Pin it in
place on each end to secure the strip. Each strip will have a selvage edge and
a cut edge, with a bit of the fabric showing, where it was cut from the width
of the fabric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choose a second strip and
either slide the cut edge under the selvage edge of the strip you have pinned
in the center, or place the selvage edge over the cut edge of the strip you
have pinned on the center, depending on which side of the center strip you are working
on. See photo on left. Stitch as close to the edge of the selvage as you can, securing the two
strips to the batting. Your stitching line will also quilt the layers
together. Be sure to remove the pins when
you reach them, so you don’t sew over them. Continue to choose strips and sew
them outward from the center until the batting is completely covered, as in photo below on the right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_MAiubz9CRXHizm1R7HM4AObnt1NoUnGA4sHPeXkwXBNUBvDUVRPvF7RqMhp8waiw9MmPuIJytUEefJPxwJPZAGwqTKy932jVU5sktU4EuBY-Xth5TdFXdx4gxVnLSBU5GujYkg_04w/s1600/strips+completed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_MAiubz9CRXHizm1R7HM4AObnt1NoUnGA4sHPeXkwXBNUBvDUVRPvF7RqMhp8waiw9MmPuIJytUEefJPxwJPZAGwqTKy932jVU5sktU4EuBY-Xth5TdFXdx4gxVnLSBU5GujYkg_04w/s320/strips+completed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking at the back side, you will have
diagonal rows of quilting covering the backing. See photo below on left.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI864lveNFLuTN40T8C1OcJ3nHYt6H0REexG87T3XUTQKjA2FTY2TCaHsKQedRVqp7JODq7CE2Lj7HiB80yfS15WIS2EzgES89ZidsUgBBJMNPBs1HoXNdNS8TrNmyNamJffTtnafyW9U/s1600/snack+mat+back+untrimmed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="689" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI864lveNFLuTN40T8C1OcJ3nHYt6H0REexG87T3XUTQKjA2FTY2TCaHsKQedRVqp7JODq7CE2Lj7HiB80yfS15WIS2EzgES89ZidsUgBBJMNPBs1HoXNdNS8TrNmyNamJffTtnafyW9U/s320/snack+mat+back+untrimmed.jpg" width="239" /></a> </div>
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When you have covered the whole square of batting, put it on your cutting board, backing side up. Using a rotary cutter and ruler that is longer than your snack mat and using your backing as a guide, trim all edges of the selvages even with the backing. Now your mat is ready for binding.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAIDV_N0TafKB4TZb3v5pNysekuuKL8IsOgoU2CRYggatQnojgf7pA94j7v9gwHcDHjMzHbJo1DkQP1EnhKoicdzM8VSDZILERL_T8FTDg1FdseVXNYpD2AydIZD0Gi60PCQu4PPOgGA/s1600/trimming+mat+from+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAIDV_N0TafKB4TZb3v5pNysekuuKL8IsOgoU2CRYggatQnojgf7pA94j7v9gwHcDHjMzHbJo1DkQP1EnhKoicdzM8VSDZILERL_T8FTDg1FdseVXNYpD2AydIZD0Gi60PCQu4PPOgGA/s320/trimming+mat+from+back.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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See photo at right.</div>
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Binding: Cut strips of the background fabric or coordinating
fabric the width of your choice… for the 10” square, one strip of binding fabric cut the width of fabric was enough to go around the mat. If binding is not familiar to you, there are many you-tube videos
demonstrating the process. I cut my strip 2” wide. I also do my quilt bindings this way, but use 2-1/2" wide strips for them.</div>
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Press the strip in half
along the long edge, wrong sides together so your binding is doubled with both raw edges together. Turn one end in to form an arrow
point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Press well… it’s okay to
use steam! Then fold it along the center again and press neatly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> See photo below, right.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOmVbc5F78aRsvvHXsa_n0ZmKFsjr8EKnEM7EBzFrdmCy0IPcWv3jBkrzSjqQVTX0iWtp5X7MSt4gmx21Hc5hN2fn7jgcxWmDVkPqkjX13dGj7A78ucxZdOzwm7PScDBfL3t4ld_Wcg4/s1600/binding+arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="610" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOmVbc5F78aRsvvHXsa_n0ZmKFsjr8EKnEM7EBzFrdmCy0IPcWv3jBkrzSjqQVTX0iWtp5X7MSt4gmx21Hc5hN2fn7jgcxWmDVkPqkjX13dGj7A78ucxZdOzwm7PScDBfL3t4ld_Wcg4/s200/binding+arrow.jpg" width="150" /></a>Beginning a few inches away from the “point” you
pressed, line the binding up with the edge of the snack mat, so that the raw
edges are all lined up together, and begin sewing. Start sewing a few inches beyond the “point”,
leaving that portion until you finish, as you will tuck the other end of the
binding into that arrow point before sewing that last portion. I start at about
the middle of one side, and I do not pin when sewing the binding on at this
point, just line it up as I go. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWf6b7ZTjpSbnv_p0qRGJq_PjxmPFJjToT0YGhFRCmpeiRqYkNz5pRbfqK6giU5KboZTtSWsMBKzPAd0Gx_cV8Bkc8MUE00sJOD1ypqFW7ouhjh998JZEfvYO04cwualucGyWeKw2DhqQ/s1600/binding+corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="169" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWf6b7ZTjpSbnv_p0qRGJq_PjxmPFJjToT0YGhFRCmpeiRqYkNz5pRbfqK6giU5KboZTtSWsMBKzPAd0Gx_cV8Bkc8MUE00sJOD1ypqFW7ouhjh998JZEfvYO04cwualucGyWeKw2DhqQ/s200/binding+corner.jpg" width="150" /></a>On the corners, bring the binding corner “loop” up so the fold is even with the side you just finished sewing. There are You-tube videos demonstrating that, if you do not know how to sew the corners of the binding. Then bring the edge of the binding even with the mat edge and sew each side until you come to the last side. See photo at right.</div>
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Put the end of the binding into that arrow point, so that it is well covered, and then cut the excess binding off and finish sewing the binding. See photo below, left. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzPlntrRsEROUjIwH6El9W8U9Gt1Vv9yHk7bfycPb8_UKGgKhefimCVteBLmURuaIZ0wZXUk4noWCf0E5-8p_6983U3VCJWTvmFFJJLnNJRAs7LIlRkiLZGdRzonXxscHYqd5CNDpqNc/s1600/arrow+binding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="610" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzPlntrRsEROUjIwH6El9W8U9Gt1Vv9yHk7bfycPb8_UKGgKhefimCVteBLmURuaIZ0wZXUk4noWCf0E5-8p_6983U3VCJWTvmFFJJLnNJRAs7LIlRkiLZGdRzonXxscHYqd5CNDpqNc/s200/arrow+binding.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcnxlTZfU-N6sxEerZkzgQ9OIvjIKebykJfNYwTC_xqR9puGcKaAx0dGtVblViZgC98kOj979MvoO2rzClHKdbaIS8ozLiLgjqgYtaqcGNGS9JJnuqPZaTM13k-6gA3JgzBSmnmbjxuyw/s1600/clipped+binding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcnxlTZfU-N6sxEerZkzgQ9OIvjIKebykJfNYwTC_xqR9puGcKaAx0dGtVblViZgC98kOj979MvoO2rzClHKdbaIS8ozLiLgjqgYtaqcGNGS9JJnuqPZaTM13k-6gA3JgzBSmnmbjxuyw/s320/clipped+binding.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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I sew from the front side, but some prefer to
sew it to the back side and topstitch from the front. After the binding is stitched down, turn the
folded edge to the back of the mat and pin or clip it so that the folded edge
is just covering the stitching line. <br />
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Then stitch from the front, next to the binding, and it should catch the edge of the binding on the back. I have some vision problems, so I stitch along the edge of the binding. Using a thread color matching the binding helps to disguise any errors, but I just used the same off-white I used to sew the strips on. I strive to be neat with my stitching, but at this point in my life, I think close is just fine! I sew for the joy of sewing, and if my stitching isn’t as pretty as it once was, I accept that… or my frustration would force me to give up one of the things that gives me fulfillment and satisfies my creative needs. There are no quilt police in my neighborhood to pass judgement on me, thank goodness!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4p0rD4Xjvtv77eW4Zfm8ydQap_7Q5PqTJPUDXGNa0ZlZLzNvof_MDcPDMp-mpMs4oAcKXmHnrIQUKDPOgCqTbDBifUIuoMPFd4NEOVrljmi4BYKmabqMuJd2Dy636a2537JjlpkrSf4/s1600/completed+snack+mat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4p0rD4Xjvtv77eW4Zfm8ydQap_7Q5PqTJPUDXGNa0ZlZLzNvof_MDcPDMp-mpMs4oAcKXmHnrIQUKDPOgCqTbDBifUIuoMPFd4NEOVrljmi4BYKmabqMuJd2Dy636a2537JjlpkrSf4/s320/completed+snack+mat.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Finished snack mat is shown on the right, The distortion is from my photo angle. Now I am excited to make some small, 5" coaster sized mats. I might also experiment with some different ways of binding them. With my diminished eyesight, it's difficult for me to machine sew binding on neatly. Hand stitching the final seam would make a neater binding, I believe, but it would also be difficult to see well to do the hand hemming, so it is a Catch 22.<br />
<br />
I have two baby quilts to get finished for Cairo... then I will be free to work on more of the quilts that are forming in my mind, beckoning to be translated into fabric. I also have a huge bin of finished tops to sandwich and quilt. I think I'll need to live a lot more years to get everything finished! <br />
<br />
Happy sewing to you all, where ever you may be! Spring is coming... the squirrels are busily performing their high-wire acts in my back yard, so I am convinced that warmer weather must be on the way.Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-25561610723180026082019-01-25T04:52:00.000-08:002019-01-25T04:52:46.889-08:00Knitted Preemie Hat<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vb2qXWycBb0OaJ3vrFnbVTExaJflxteuX6G_Et_VWM0RVaeaHI_HvRQIN5nvuCLHhHe9uvIXhHxVqztFFW6tf1t8R_Q689EEjKRwbBH7e5R7Vmn4DaAPrCbVD_WCdiJ9ruG3lHlQR2g/s1600/Cairo+smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vb2qXWycBb0OaJ3vrFnbVTExaJflxteuX6G_Et_VWM0RVaeaHI_HvRQIN5nvuCLHhHe9uvIXhHxVqztFFW6tf1t8R_Q689EEjKRwbBH7e5R7Vmn4DaAPrCbVD_WCdiJ9ruG3lHlQR2g/s320/Cairo+smiling.jpg" width="177" /></a>Baby Cairo arrived about a month earlier than he was
expected, and is tiny… so he needs to preserve his body heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The photo at right was taken when he was only a few days old... already smiling and happy to be part of his family!</span></div>
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They gave him a sweet little knitted stocking
cap at the hospital, and I knitted him another one. He just got it today, and
his mama texted me a couple of photos of him wearing it… it fits perfectly! Here’s a photo below, of the completed hat and the very simple pattern I used to knit it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Preemie Hat:</div>
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Supplies needed:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Size 8 double pointed knitting needles (mine are bamboo, 5 needles to a set)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Soft worsted weight yarn (weight 4); I used Bernat; it does not use much yarn.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yarn needle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knitting marker</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBt7-EKBxIPumux3S0Qk-k5qYMJfRzE-yCtYo90MUnLxcpPbsse19CYD7tgvYOdS7l8HKs0AiNbkbSdrRAaKFrhIVpkpIJGbQWimH4r10VMT_weIjx895_NLAJbJKoCgygv4bLeW0ab0c/s1600/Cairo%2527s+cap+complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="689" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBt7-EKBxIPumux3S0Qk-k5qYMJfRzE-yCtYo90MUnLxcpPbsse19CYD7tgvYOdS7l8HKs0AiNbkbSdrRAaKFrhIVpkpIJGbQWimH4r10VMT_weIjx895_NLAJbJKoCgygv4bLeW0ab0c/s320/Cairo%2527s+cap+complete.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Cast on 40 stitches, not too tightly . Divide among 4
needles, 10 stitches per needle, taking care not to twist stitches.</div>
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Place a marker for beginning of round. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rounds 1-6: Knit 2, Purl 2 around to form ribbing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Begin stockinette stitch. <o:p></o:p></div>
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*Knit 5 rows around. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next
row: Purl around. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The purl row will
create the ridged pattern.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Repeat these 6 rows four times, then knit every row until cap
measures about 4-1/2” long.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Begin decreases to form crown; note that sometimes you will
need to transfer a stitch to the adjoining needle to make the decreases.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 1 (decrease row): *Knit 6, knit 2 together; repeat from
* around; 35 stitches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: Knit to end of round. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 3 (decrease row): *Knit 5, knit 2 together; repeat from
* around; 30 stitches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 4: Knit to end of round. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 5 (decrease row): *Knit 4, knit 2 together; repeat from
* around; 25 stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 6: Knit to end of round.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 7 (decrease row): *Knit 3, Knit 2 together; repeat from
* around; 20 stitches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 8: Knit to end of round.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 9 (decrease row): *Knit 2, Knit 2 together; repeat from *
around; 15 stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 10: Knit to end of round.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 11 (decrease row): *Knit 1, Knit 2 together; repeat from *
around; 10 stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 12: Knit to end of round.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 13: *Knit 2 together; repeat from * around; 5 stitches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Place the remaining stitches on one double pointed needle. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Decrease one stitch, so there are 4 stitches remaining.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Using 2 double pointed needles, knit an I-cord with the
remaining 4 stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 1: Knit all 4 stitches. Do not turn the work, but slide the
stitches to the beginning of the needle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: Knit all 4 stitches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The yarn will be carried from behind the ending stitch to the beginning,
forming the I-cord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6LhAJtSPQT7mHNdMsO-6m8xdW2sy1kQ2nZIlSpyny8DPTrSnj7oEs9cEjxr6mPyYLKC8qa-ash62Gd-0MoZq41IKmfVsMwfFJ-ky682bixK8F5jYxRWhzOmd59a40vsCLGPzfXbT8iU/s1600/Cairo%2527s+cap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1225" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6LhAJtSPQT7mHNdMsO-6m8xdW2sy1kQ2nZIlSpyny8DPTrSnj7oEs9cEjxr6mPyYLKC8qa-ash62Gd-0MoZq41IKmfVsMwfFJ-ky682bixK8F5jYxRWhzOmd59a40vsCLGPzfXbT8iU/s200/Cairo%2527s+cap.jpg" width="200" /></a>Repeat these 2 rows until I-cord is desired length, about 1”
or 2”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut yarn, leaving a tail long enough to thread into a yarn
needle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Draw yarn through all 4
stitches, and secure well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pass needle
through the “tube” of the I-cord, hiding the yarn tail, if desired.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The cap with the ribbing turned up is pictured at left.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicY_TsKOHctdzWZeT-BZ3w0pquDY-wAPU_PSWKus8thuGmRW0nk_mnsMtgPZyeACPnN6ffM_qSn0jWe7yF4g2tbXo-rAk50LMo5EGRrAfNpSBS_lwwDUYpYor4nFTcRi1Ga_hl6DNAl_U/s1600/Cairo+in+cap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="517" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicY_TsKOHctdzWZeT-BZ3w0pquDY-wAPU_PSWKus8thuGmRW0nk_mnsMtgPZyeACPnN6ffM_qSn0jWe7yF4g2tbXo-rAk50LMo5EGRrAfNpSBS_lwwDUYpYor4nFTcRi1Ga_hl6DNAl_U/s320/Cairo+in+cap.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Here's Cairo wearing his new hat, wrapped in the shawl I crocheted for him. I asked my granddaughter (his mama) if she wanted more hats, and she laughed and said he's growing fast, so I'd better make them a little bigger! <br />
<br />
Babies are truly little miracles... I remember looking at my own babies in awe, amazed at how quickly they grew and changed, day to day. Now, my "babies" range in age from 42 (43 in a few days) to 57. I still can remember how they looked and how I felt when I first cradled them in my arms. No matter how old they get, they are still our cherished babies... and those memories live within us always.<br />
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And now... another generation of babies are adding another layer of sweetness to our family. I am proud of my grandchildren, seeing what good parents they are. My children have done well, raising their children to be loving and patient adults. Most weekends, my son and daughter bring their grandbabies (and often the babies' mothers) over to bond with each other and with me... it's one of my greatest blessings, to be part of their lives in a tangible way. It's one more reason I'm happy I moved to be closer to my family.<br />
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These little hats take very little yarn and I knit one in just a few hours... although I am not a fast knitter. The one Cairo received in the hospital is striped, of several yarns. It's a wonderful way to use up yarn left from other projects, and provide a needed ministry, donating them to local hospitals to be given to newborns. If you aren't a knitter, I'm sure crocheted versions would be welcomed, as well. There are many services that are based on donations like this... Project Linus is one, with quilts and blankets given to children in hospitals. Our church quilting group made quilts for them, as well. Even as we become less mobile, we can still work on projects like these, and feel useful, with a purpose. Babies will blossom, wrapped in the love gifts we make! <br />
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<br />Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-63376771307412563942019-01-17T12:12:00.000-08:002019-01-17T12:12:22.481-08:00Shell Stitch Baby Shawl<br />
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January 17, and winter has come to the heartland! There’s about 8 inches of snow on the deck and picnic table… and the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were fortunate to escape the snow for this long… last week, the temperatures were in the upper 50’s! It is pretty outside, but I was hoping the warmer weather would last a bit longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least, we often have spring weather in March, so we may not have to view a white landscape for long… certainly not as long as my Minnesota friends and family have to endure the cold and snow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The temperature is 39 degrees right now, and the forecast predicts temperatures in the 40's the next few days, but we are expecting another snowstorm toward the end of the week! The "Sprinkle" for baby Cairo has been postponed, due to the predicted snowstorm. I didn't know they have baby showers for babies after the first... but they are called "Sprinkles" now. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve been busy crocheting a baby shawl for my new little great-grandson, who was due the beginning of February, but he made his appearance just after midnight Sunday morning, so that means he was born on January 13th. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4OE3qtu0jiaGe2H15NGqMlP9CIdWqz_CUC6b7IgxRjtfF89ApVCQB1SUVGmHR5Oo44xtpZg_9mIHLaAsZqYLXAa0_z9XetTxiKJ4pb0ECZ4FqKAttrXGzBWdErsGOLvlCkiIw1cjB-I/s1600/Cairo+Donavon+Davis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4OE3qtu0jiaGe2H15NGqMlP9CIdWqz_CUC6b7IgxRjtfF89ApVCQB1SUVGmHR5Oo44xtpZg_9mIHLaAsZqYLXAa0_z9XetTxiKJ4pb0ECZ4FqKAttrXGzBWdErsGOLvlCkiIw1cjB-I/s320/Cairo+Donavon+Davis.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TdEwzHQZbsnjfSjTx_KgOFf4WLaGaQqvyck1iyeMAt38qzw9AgUAT0JOuUP2uEOv8pOurpzFI6Fso35sgVczZo7EV7UZ6jZYssMr9sZKIDf_bjmD4tq1pN0jjRtILH3Ln-c84KJLxBg/s1600/Cairo%252C+1+day+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="539" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TdEwzHQZbsnjfSjTx_KgOFf4WLaGaQqvyck1iyeMAt38qzw9AgUAT0JOuUP2uEOv8pOurpzFI6Fso35sgVczZo7EV7UZ6jZYssMr9sZKIDf_bjmD4tq1pN0jjRtILH3Ln-c84KJLxBg/s320/Cairo%252C+1+day+old.jpg" width="179" /></a>He weighed in at 5 pounds 9 ounces, and is 19 inches long. Welcome to our family… and the world, Cairo Donavon Davis! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just finished his shawl Friday night, and am now working on a couple of baby quilts for him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p>Newborn, left photo</o:p></div>
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<o:p><br />
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<o:p>One day old, photo on right</o:p></div>
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<o:p><br />
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<o:p>Big brother, Arlo, is happy to have his little baby brother, but is quick to let him know that Tricia is HIS grandma, and he isn't very willing to share her at this time. </o:p></div>
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<b>Shell Stitch Baby Shawl:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5TGAuL8leJTM0QAayGQmogvsg40SrfBSIuSEuAOXg7sINiDDu9KZg-2HrLuRbhzH9L4MDYWlZwHNHf1d0uM17fLL3HN1vqPTMKnTczmFsb3tXA7p8aBVdPW7B9SxsTXXuZA4jpiS0jQ/s1600/baby+shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5TGAuL8leJTM0QAayGQmogvsg40SrfBSIuSEuAOXg7sINiDDu9KZg-2HrLuRbhzH9L4MDYWlZwHNHf1d0uM17fLL3HN1vqPTMKnTczmFsb3tXA7p8aBVdPW7B9SxsTXXuZA4jpiS0jQ/s320/baby+shawl.jpg" width="240" /></a>Crochet Hook: J/10 <o:p></o:p></div>
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Yarn needle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Baby Sport Yarn, weight class 3, 1 ball<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(12.3 oz.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finished Measurement: approximately 34<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>x 36<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Pattern difficulty: Easy</div>
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Key to abbreviations: </div>
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Chain (ch) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Single crochet (sc)<o:p></o:p></div>
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double crochet (dc)<o:p></o:p></div>
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slip stitch (sl st)<o:p></o:p></div>
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skip (sk)<o:p></o:p></div>
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stitch (st)<o:p></o:p></div>
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space (sp)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Using J hook, chain 122 stitches (multiple of 8 plus 2).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sk next 2 ch, 5 dc in next ch, sk next 2 ch, sc in next ch, *sk next 2 ch, 5 dc in next ch, sk next 2 ch, sc in next ch; repeat from * across; turn—Twenty 5-dc shells.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as first dc here and throughout), 2 dc in first sc, sk next 2 dc, sc in next dc (center dc of 5-dc shell), sk next 2 dc, *5 dc in next sc (5-dc shell), sk next 2 dc, sc in next dc (center dc of 5-dc shell), sk next 2 dc; repeat from * across to last sc, 3 dc in last sc; turn—Nineteen 5-dc shells and one 3-dc half-shell at each end.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 3: ch 1, sc in first chain, sk next 2 dc, *5 dc in next sc, sk next 2 dc, sc in next dc (center dc of 5-dc shell), sk next 2 dc; repeat from * across, ending with sc in top of last dc in the set of 3 dc shell. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Repeat Rows 2–3 to desired size, or until all yarn is used, ending with a complete row.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left a bit of yarn to do Round 1 of the border, then switched to ivory yarn to do rows 2 and 3. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iTad9KuHKIXSXXuSz0M44I0OvvaoI7HO9RGNsdsAY7jpEog0DEFvfHuhyeqPhY4CkiLTEUQ7u7HrLrCVGov6j6Iu60mFgxdXewArohJTOdtN7dhLEZIwSEvy8LRpiF-TuNuTPqICHcg/s1600/baby+shawl+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iTad9KuHKIXSXXuSz0M44I0OvvaoI7HO9RGNsdsAY7jpEog0DEFvfHuhyeqPhY4CkiLTEUQ7u7HrLrCVGov6j6Iu60mFgxdXewArohJTOdtN7dhLEZIwSEvy8LRpiF-TuNuTPqICHcg/s320/baby+shawl+side.jpg" width="240" /></a>Border (shown in photos):<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round 1: work sc evenly spaced around all edges of blanket, working 3 sc in each corner; join with sl st in first sc.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHspXbFXqdGVkBcujHQ8ErZZYJrrjIuMytvwFNP75KPrgQADgO_6SIA6JQ9ZE9zf1T5K93Ay_qtcPNr8nT4C6d93WpByV0hLwNskcQ61GZOkhM5hZZjyY-DPNvo1ExcUo4a-mGwG6H54/s1600/baby+shawl+corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHspXbFXqdGVkBcujHQ8ErZZYJrrjIuMytvwFNP75KPrgQADgO_6SIA6JQ9ZE9zf1T5K93Ay_qtcPNr8nT4C6d93WpByV0hLwNskcQ61GZOkhM5hZZjyY-DPNvo1ExcUo4a-mGwG6H54/s320/baby+shawl+corner.jpg" width="240" /></a>Round 2: Ch 1, *sc in next 2 sc, ch 1, sk 1 sc, working 3 sc in each corner; repeat from * around; join with sl st in first sc.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round 3: Ch 1, sc in same st as join, *sc in each sc (2), 3 dc in each ch 1 space; repeat from * around, working 6 dc in center of each corner. Join with sl st in first sc. Using yarn needle, weave in all ends. Block lightly, if desired. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Today is my oldest little sister's birthday, and also was my parents' wedding anniversary. Happy birthday, Dianne! Dad lives with her now that our mother is gone, and they take good care of each other. I hope they are having sunny weather and are able to get out to celebrate!<br />
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If the sun isn't shining today where you live, add a few more smiles to brighten your surroundings! Everything is better when you're smiling.<br />
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<br />Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-41724717276184584652018-12-11T16:04:00.000-08:002019-01-05T03:11:34.201-08:00Traditions and Christmas StockingsChristmas is just around the corner!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been ignoring the ads, which began right after Halloween this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The commercialism has obliterated much of the joy I normally felt around the holiday, and the result is that we do no longer do a lot of gift-giving in my family… I give gift certificates so that everyone can get what they want during the after-holiday sales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s easy to get caught up in the buying, with all the ads that dominate all media contacts, but it has the opposite effect on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am more focused on the traditions within our family that make the holiday more meaningful to me, at least. Traditions are a legacy of love that provide a window to the past, awakening memories that bring us joy… my mother started some of our traditions, many years ago, when my sisters and I began having children. She made all of the grandchildren pajamas for Christmas, and they were cherished by all of the grandchildren, and worn (as long as they could still fit into them) until the legs were definitely high-water britches!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continued that tradition for many years… until the children began preferring lounge pants to nightgowns and pajamas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One year, when my oldest grandson was getting ready for church, he asked if he could wear his new “flannel suit”!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another tradition my mother started was to give each family member an ornament, and I also continued that tradition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When each child leaves home, they already have a collection of memories in their box of ornaments that will grace their own Christmas trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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I also started a few traditions of my own… when my children were small, I made them Advent banners that they filled with candy the end of November.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were hung side by side, and the children were allowed to remove one candy each day until Christmas Eve, when they got to the last piece. A few years ago when all of my children and their families were here for Thanksgiving, we all worked together to make Advent banners for each of the grandchildren and for other family members. I posted a blog on those; you will find the link listed on the right side of my blog. At Thanksgiving this year, they filled their banners before returning home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It brought a smile to my face, watching them choose their favorite candies and tie them to their banners, reminding me of many Advent seasons long past, when their parents were young. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another tradition I started was to knit Christmas stockings with Fair Isle patterns for my children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pattern originally was featured in a McCall’s Needlework and Craft magazine in the mid-70’s… over 40 years ago!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As each child married, I knit one for the new family member, and then for each of the grandchildren, as they arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, I have two great-grandchildren I’m knitting stockings for, so the tradition continues. I am not a fast knitter, and now I am beginning to experience neuropathy in my fingers, so I have to stop often and shake my hands to alleviate the numbness… it takes me nearly a week to knit a stocking now! Here is my version of the pattern, in case you want to start a tradition of these stockings in your own families.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Christmas Fair Isle Stocking Pattern:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knitting worsted, off-white or cream, 4 oz. (or more, if you make a larger stocking like I did)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Red and Green, about 1 oz. each, depending on pattern<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knitting needles, size US 5; I like circular needles so the weight is evenly distributed<o:p></o:p></div>
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Double pointed needles, US 5; if you have a set of 5, that works better than a set of 4<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yarn bobbins, wound with red and green yarn for pattern<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 Stitch holders<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yarn needle<o:p></o:p></div>
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Snippers<o:p></o:p></div>
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Crochet hook to pick up any dropped stitches… just in case!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Stitch counter is helpful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Graph the name to fit in 72 stitches; I used 4 stitches across for most letters, and 5 rows down.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I put a design before and after the name, centered on the stitches available. This is where your math knowledge comes in handy! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Choose graphs to repeat in 72 stitches, adding plain stitches between designs, as needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I did a border between designs, using designs about 3 or 4 stitches across and 3 or 4 rows down, and 2 plain rows of white before and after the border design. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Be sure, when carrying yarn for colorwork, to pick up the yarn in use under the previous yarn, to avoid holes in your work. I twisted yarn every 2 to 4 stitches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Measure off about 65 inches of white yarn; tie a slip knot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cast on 72 stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knit 2, purl 2 in ribbing for 15 rows.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Begin stockinet stitch, knit 1 row, purl 1 row for main body of sock.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Knit 2 rows in stockinette stitch, then begin pattern. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a wealth of patterns on graphs on the internet, if you need ideas for your stockings.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Work patterns to make the stocking top the length of your choice. This stocking measures about 19” from ribbing to the end of the patterns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>End with finishing a purl row.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Begin Instep:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjCylj-bccNZU-L6RcbehYxX9mGb25lnfcotmlJD-rVYSBe5b460vXRsFLpr7NdiU5G5meedsenBDC8pXd1xIfFVMDNmYveOTcsTKSM5sg5u7qA8LhQdqFJQZSlAgYnHr480VlnhSACUA/s1600/arlo+stocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjCylj-bccNZU-L6RcbehYxX9mGb25lnfcotmlJD-rVYSBe5b460vXRsFLpr7NdiU5G5meedsenBDC8pXd1xIfFVMDNmYveOTcsTKSM5sg5u7qA8LhQdqFJQZSlAgYnHr480VlnhSACUA/s320/arlo+stocking.jpg" width="240" /></a>Put first 18 stitches and last 18 stitches on stitch holders; the remaining middle 36 stitches form the instep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Knit in patterns until the instep measures desired length (this one is around 8-1/2”).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last row: Decrease 2 stitches at beginning and end of row.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put remaining 32 stitches of instep on a stitch holder.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Block the stocking lightly, and tie off/weave in all yarn ends. Since this is not for wear, it doesn’t matter so much if there are knots on the back/inside of the stocking, but it will get lots of stress in its use as a stocking to stuff with gifts, so make sure the knots are secure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of my stockings have stood the test of over 40 years of use!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Stocking with instep finished and stitches on stitch holder, shown at left. Backside of stocking, before yarn ends are woven in, shown below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJJhLEoJjuN3NpPQFmeTHvG4p1f8_ZT5SfEJiNT-X5TJPVbblz8CHHjR8yMLMEJoep8UGX2jY8AcLXeVEaQG9gZon1GS3YBHlwAixs-5Eg7CLYoc0IoaIlxAspF4uo7SNc6E4XzaNWOU/s1600/arlo+stocking+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJJhLEoJjuN3NpPQFmeTHvG4p1f8_ZT5SfEJiNT-X5TJPVbblz8CHHjR8yMLMEJoep8UGX2jY8AcLXeVEaQG9gZon1GS3YBHlwAixs-5Eg7CLYoc0IoaIlxAspF4uo7SNc6E4XzaNWOU/s320/arlo+stocking+back.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Heel: Put heel stitches on a needle with back edges meeting at the center of the needle. Join contrasting color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used green for all the boys’ stockings and red for the girls’ stockings. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 1: *Slip 1, knit 1; repeat from * across row.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: *Slip 1, purl across.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Repeat these two rows until there are 27 rows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cut contrasting color; attach white yarn. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Turn Heel: With white, purl one row.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: (Right side) Knit 23, Knit 2 together, turn.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 3: Purl 11, Purl 2 together, turn.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 4: Knit 11, Knit 2 together, turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Repeat these last 2 rows until 12 stitches remain. Cut white yarn.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shape Heel: From right side, with White yarn, pick up and Knit 17 stitches on side of heel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knit across 12 heel stitches, pick up and Knit 17 stitches on other side of heel; 46 stitches in all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 2: Purl.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Row 3: Knit 1, Slip 1, Knit 1, Pass slip stitch over the last knit stitch (1 decrease), Knit to last 3 stitches, Knit 2 together, Knit 1.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Repeat rows 2 and 3 until 30 stitches remain. Work even until piece is same length as instep. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Put instep stitches on DP needle (or 2, if you have a 5 needle set), divide heel stitches on 2 DP needles.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JHOpdCG5OUS1tAdHd8BA1LkKeNTA6tILDU0x1cK2VTh_WEX6U2ddZkOWNFhpvFtMxRnGzqve1eDmRNqLl-hwcBus-Sl4AmgE9NV8HywW-j9qTLOz_XsvMZsKFyf-80r_nDk_GbzL7Jg/s1600/arlo+stocking+complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JHOpdCG5OUS1tAdHd8BA1LkKeNTA6tILDU0x1cK2VTh_WEX6U2ddZkOWNFhpvFtMxRnGzqve1eDmRNqLl-hwcBus-Sl4AmgE9NV8HywW-j9qTLOz_XsvMZsKFyf-80r_nDk_GbzL7Jg/s320/arlo+stocking+complete.jpg" width="240" /></a>Round 1: Join contrasting color (green or red, I used the same color as the heel) at beginning of instep. Knit across, decrease 1 stitch each end of needle (each end of instep). Knit stitches on heel needles.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round 2: Knit around.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round 3: Knit around, decreasing 1 stitch each end of instep needle, decrease 1 stitch at beginning of first heel needle and decrease one stitch at end of 2<sup>nd</sup> heel needle, 4 stitches decreased. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Repeat Rounds 2 and 3 until 20 stitches remain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weave remaining stitches together, using the Kitchener stitch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sew seams (each side of foot and the top stocking section). </div>
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The finished stocking is shown at the left.</div>
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Here are some of the photos I have of stockings I’ve knit in the past… some of them are over 40 years old and have been used every Christmas for that many years! I am delighted that they are cherished by each recipient… and they are over-sized, so Santa has plenty of room to fill them with fruit, nuts, candy, and even some special gifts… the best things sometimes come in small packages. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What are some of your holiday traditions? I hope your holiday is filled with cherished memories, as well as new experiences added as each holiday is celebrated. And from our house to yours… Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season with Joy overflowing in your heart!<br />
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<br />Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-42238163252623234332017-10-02T00:53:00.001-07:002017-10-02T00:53:22.005-07:00Celtic Squares: A Link to the Past<div class="MsoNormal">
I did an Ancestry DNA test recently, and discovered a few
surprises. I knew (or thought I knew)
that I was half Finn, as my mother’s family all came from Finland. My paternal grandmother said she was
Bohemian, and my paternal grandfather said he was a mixture of everything, but
mostly British Isles. My DNA test showed
I am 56% Finland, including Northwest Russia, 36% Great Britain, 2% Eastern
European, 1% Iberian Peninsula, 1% Scandinavian, and 4% West Asia. A Google search informs me that Bohemia was
part of the Czech Republic, which borders Germany and Austria. Grandma was evidently not so much Bohemian as
she thought, but more likely a mixture of many ethnicities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Building a family tree on Ancestry has been interesting... I
can easily spend hours there and feel as though mere minutes have passed. I've gone back as far as the late 1500’s with
some branches of the family tree, but some of the information is conflicting,
coming from other “limbs” of the family tree, so I need to do more research
into the actual records. I've contacted or been contacted by a few distant
relatives. I feel fortunate to be old
enough to remember many of the great-aunts and great-uncles, and even some of
my great-grandparents. So many stories
lie behind the names, and I wonder what those stories were, as I go through the records. Some had few years between birth and death records, while others lived long lives. Some had occupations listed, and some even had titles. All those names
belonged to people who lived their lives in other countries and times so very
different from the time that we know as normal.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even my own life has changed drastically from the time I was
a child on a farm in Northern Wisconsin, where we children were bathed in a
wash tub in the basement. We raced
downstairs on cold winter mornings, carrying our clothes, to dress near the
wood stove where it was warmest. We had no telephone, no television, and only
one car in the family, which Dad drove to work every day. The radio brought us the voices of Gisele
MacKezie and Snooky Lanson on Your Hit Parade while we did our Saturday
cleaning, and we gathered around the radio to listen to shows like Amos and
Andy, Lux Radio Theater, The Shadow, Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy, Fibber
McGee and Molly, and Roy Rogers. Our mother taught us all the states and their
capitols, and quizzed us as we worked around the house, making mundane tasks
actually feel more like fun. Time spent
in the car was an opportunity to sing together, and we learned to sing in
“parts”, with Mama singing the harmony, we children singing the melody, and Dad
occasionally providing some appropriate bass notes. We listened to Little Orley
records on a phonograph our uncle gave my younger sisters, and Fred Waring and
his Pennsylvanians orchestra taught us the sounds various instruments make as
they added the sound effects to the stories. My sister found a place to order Little Orley records on
CD’s a few years ago, and I was excited to have my grandchildren listen to
them... but they held little interest for children who are entertained by electronic
games on various devices! Saturday nights, we usually went to Mother’s aunt’s
home to have a sauna. Saunas were social
events, and all the little children took sauna together. (And don’t you dare pronounce it “sawna”...
it’s sow’na.) <o:p></o:p></div>
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There were no cell phones or I-Pads... we actually talked to
each other! Children played “school”,
and since I was the oldest, I always got to be the teacher. I wonder as I write
this, if that’s part of the reason my two sisters who grew up on the farm with
me became teachers when they were adults... I never gave them the chance when
we were young. I loved books, and many
family members bought me books for gifts.
I had all the books in the Little Women series, and can remember reading
those, as well as Peter Pan, Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates, and others to
my younger sisters, before they could read.
Mama introduced us to Thornton Burgess’ Mother West Wind stories from her own childhood, and I
have found most of those still for sale online. Thankfully, all of my
grandchildren cherish books, as well, and it warms my heart to see them reading
the books their parents passed down to them.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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I saw this quilt tutorial using jelly roll strips online...
called Pretzel Twist. <a href="http://www.fonsandporter.com/throw-quilt-patterns/pretzel-twist-quilt">http://www.fonsandporter.com/throw-quilt-patterns/pretzel-twist-quilt</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am making my own
version of this pattern, and in honor of my British ancestry, I call mine
Celtic Squares. I make my quilts from my
stash, so I cannot give you exact yardage, but I can tell you what sized pieces
I am using to make a block. This makes an 8" finished block.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Since 4 units are used to make one complete block, I cut
pieces for all 4 blocks at once. I cut
my own 2-1/2” strips from fabric yardage before I fold it onto the shelves, and
keep the strips in large plastic bins, sorted light, mediums, and darks. I began doing this long before they were
coined “jelly rolls” and sold in packages. </div>
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I laid various prints out next to each other on the cutting mat, in 4
rows, about 4 fabrics deep in each row, and used my June Tailor Shape Cut ruler to
cut them all at once. Since I left the strips folded in half, 2 cuts gives 4
pieces. This pattern uses most of the strip in each print. The remaining pieces go into a Ziploc bag of 2-1/2” pieces, to be used in a future scrap quilt.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cutting instructions:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut of each jelly roll print: 4 pieces, each 6-1/2” and 4 pieces, each
2-1/2”. (36” total)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut of background print:
4 pieces, each 4-1/2” and 8 pieces 2-1/2” (38” total)<o:p></o:p></div>
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There are 2 basic strips for each block, and each block
requires 2 colors of these 2 strips, so 4 strips per block. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9djsLMhsnStJwUNfRprRywOv324U26eheKz_hz-aGYa4lnbVBKbnfOXVCGyOr3qT4z6JqkSX-0R1FxRNO-S0UDZzqmk0zTbEa9vmmtwRye4CyRtpsz6MFAk1gXbNWeK4GiURV0F3QDJU/s1600/chain+piecing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9djsLMhsnStJwUNfRprRywOv324U26eheKz_hz-aGYa4lnbVBKbnfOXVCGyOr3qT4z6JqkSX-0R1FxRNO-S0UDZzqmk0zTbEa9vmmtwRye4CyRtpsz6MFAk1gXbNWeK4GiURV0F3QDJU/s320/chain+piecing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This pattern is easy to strip-piece.<br />
<br />
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Sew the 4 print squares to 4 of the
background squares, right sides together, using ¼” seam. Chain piece the units; do not cut the threads
joining the units.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sew one background square to one end of the 6-1/2” print
rectangle, completing all 4 rectangles in the same manner.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Without removing all the strips from the machine, just cut
off the first 4 squares you joined. Sew
the 4-1/2” background piece to the print square in the unit, so there is a
print square sandwiched between a background square and a background rectangle. Complete all 4 units the same way. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0ok6JDHJGg0QRPuVmK7B-1N9grRcQa2sTcb_jydqDYviYxec-j6vOYuYms3ogvcmLh6iFgCJ3UePRE2qyLLUi-6lrmIQRNk-lmZJVqZlmzOPzuXdg5AxVoNMB1lVR7Khkl00ZQlDyto/s1600/ready+to+snip+and+press.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="789" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0ok6JDHJGg0QRPuVmK7B-1N9grRcQa2sTcb_jydqDYviYxec-j6vOYuYms3ogvcmLh6iFgCJ3UePRE2qyLLUi-6lrmIQRNk-lmZJVqZlmzOPzuXdg5AxVoNMB1lVR7Khkl00ZQlDyto/s320/ready+to+snip+and+press.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then start
sewing another print in the <o:p></o:p></div>
same manner. When I sewed the second print, I cut
the thread between the two different prints, but didn't snip the threads
between the units sewn in the same print.
That way, there is not as much chance of losing any of the parts. They can be kept together until you have many
different prints sewn. Then I picked up
a string of pieces, cut them apart, and pressed them all at the same time. After pressing, I clipped them together with
a Wonder clip. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuDEVw-2eTlW3qor4DJ4k3dQrkFsTKuBOgvycoYsMlgzgPw1gHpYWHbOilAwAjfDnQSdEvTgagk-36jxEMFUlfW1s10HdI_agWAGWoV4gZsvPEjxoCOnANSHcdfM8N3WyroC1nIn8Q64/s1600/2+block+pieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="817" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuDEVw-2eTlW3qor4DJ4k3dQrkFsTKuBOgvycoYsMlgzgPw1gHpYWHbOilAwAjfDnQSdEvTgagk-36jxEMFUlfW1s10HdI_agWAGWoV4gZsvPEjxoCOnANSHcdfM8N3WyroC1nIn8Q64/s320/2+block+pieces.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Each block uses these same 2 strips in 2 colors. See photos at right. </div>
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This photo shows the only two strip pieces that comprise the whole quilt. Top strip consists of a 4-1/2" background strip, 2-1/2" print square, 2-1/2" background square.</div>
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The bottom strip is a 6-1/2" print strip joined to a 2-1/2" background square.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZloWkILFEcodSqCoOFodlFKlI-FYb2ANbMiqIAFvQju9RXoYZU2E1vhb4CY-F5ZeeZs5oW6C05zyVFvWJB7SWI8aJDJCWifUCXpPdBmrUAqYGHRHF-hctQ3MTsXnIS5ELaJGGfHfIUuI/s1600/block+layout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="882" data-original-width="775" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZloWkILFEcodSqCoOFodlFKlI-FYb2ANbMiqIAFvQju9RXoYZU2E1vhb4CY-F5ZeeZs5oW6C05zyVFvWJB7SWI8aJDJCWifUCXpPdBmrUAqYGHRHF-hctQ3MTsXnIS5ELaJGGfHfIUuI/s320/block+layout.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
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This photo shows how the two colors are laid out, forming the block. Be sure to note that the white square goes in the left on the blue print, and the white square is on the right on the purple print. The woven square will not look the same if you reverse the order of the strips. I learned that the hard way... a few of my blocks are reversed, if you look closely at the completed 20 blocks. I am not going to rip them out and change them... they still form squares, but are simply woven differently.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDYUTT22ZMrvG-tYhlPbZOR95G4bL_llg9waAMgDBBNUbALCfYGa1HmRg4RKm6XIELKJyTZGmR8IDnlzHUVsnE0C_MAmi-V5PYnqA_A6kGv7h-NCewmnIsuznDoTjbcb2mMtHeep-bxI/s1600/completed+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="799" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDYUTT22ZMrvG-tYhlPbZOR95G4bL_llg9waAMgDBBNUbALCfYGa1HmRg4RKm6XIELKJyTZGmR8IDnlzHUVsnE0C_MAmi-V5PYnqA_A6kGv7h-NCewmnIsuznDoTjbcb2mMtHeep-bxI/s320/completed+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The photo at the left shows the completed block when the 4 strips are sewn together. </div>
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<br />
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<o:p> The photo below shows 4 blocks set together. These blocks were sewn correctly, so the error is not shown in this portion. </o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrZJOeyWXiBP20P5XXoFblwgvZWHypCBQFJfcJk9n3f2S5mwFaVtWZD6qY_0lRqOq3svw9N_CywRr09jgZugaIC4c4cMD_cyTRaTF1pmuT7gVV7XacxGu28_g-tnbdNL9cShtlaHjjVc/s1600/completed+first+square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="810" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrZJOeyWXiBP20P5XXoFblwgvZWHypCBQFJfcJk9n3f2S5mwFaVtWZD6qY_0lRqOq3svw9N_CywRr09jgZugaIC4c4cMD_cyTRaTF1pmuT7gVV7XacxGu28_g-tnbdNL9cShtlaHjjVc/s320/completed+first+square.jpg" width="320" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a very fast and easy quilt to piece. However... here comes the tricky part. You will need a design wall or floor to lay out the pieces for each block, and then the segments are built out from the center.<br />
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The photo below shows all 20 blocks that are finished. I see two colors that I reversed, before I realized I was not doing it correctly. How fast can you spot the errors? </div>
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Do you see how each print is part of 4 different blocks, and how adjoining blocks share the same prints? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5WY9WNGMs2NdBEzmx1vFhMSxesY15KLTZHDggGSmSTqXOtmno-_msMyiHVJ8EsDJ3Vj7ZuCQKwIdGml9wCu6zRhhhFA5-cHrUGq9mWR1ooB4OZSGzzALvuJ8NfhAhUVPrvjZuWCTZKw/s1600/20+blocks+joined.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5WY9WNGMs2NdBEzmx1vFhMSxesY15KLTZHDggGSmSTqXOtmno-_msMyiHVJ8EsDJ3Vj7ZuCQKwIdGml9wCu6zRhhhFA5-cHrUGq9mWR1ooB4OZSGzzALvuJ8NfhAhUVPrvjZuWCTZKw/s320/20+blocks+joined.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have that stack of pieces piled on my ironing board to cut apart and begin adding more blocks to these 20. I'm not sure how big I will make it... I didn't have a plan when I started cutting the </div>
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2-1/2" strips. This portion is 5 blocks by 4 blocks, and measures about 40 x 32, which would be a good size for a baby quilt, or perhaps for a wheelchair quilt. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-35hn6nnOjczyVyftc3Jf-8_oxDF7aE41vXOgN3Wgwy4AwnSo3rB4eAIcR-bsbE_6ct1WL5FB2A5F7qGn8kprKovAsH3H2U9Kqxyo8wXqNVYtGfejg1lJiQHSIFBpvAazIUr4Qc3eF_8/s1600/thread+saver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="822" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-35hn6nnOjczyVyftc3Jf-8_oxDF7aE41vXOgN3Wgwy4AwnSo3rB4eAIcR-bsbE_6ct1WL5FB2A5F7qGn8kprKovAsH3H2U9Kqxyo8wXqNVYtGfejg1lJiQHSIFBpvAazIUr4Qc3eF_8/s320/thread+saver.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This photo shows the "thread saver" that is used to sew onto instead of cutting the thread between segments. Dawn and Ida taught me that trick many years ago, when we were making quilts to auction off to earn money for our church. Now, I notice even some of the quilting shows on TV use those little scraps to save thread, but Dawn and Ida did it first! I miss those Monday sessions spent with friends, stitching and chatting. Some ladies knitted or made crafted items for our bazaars. Always, there was an abundance of friendship, coffee and delicious snacks. </div>
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These days, I satisfy my need to interact with friends through quilting groups online. After all, friends are friends... whether you touch them in person or interact through words echoing across vast expanses, in other states or other countries. Perhaps change isn't bad... it simply takes some adjustment. Perhaps you CAN teach an old dog new tricks! </div>
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-19787228946011255882017-09-24T02:11:00.003-07:002017-09-25T09:36:55.503-07:00Star Flower Quilt Block<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
My Pfaff Quilting Expression 4.2 is in the shop for a tune-up, and I am back to sewing on my old White machine. At the time I purchased it (probably about 20 or more years ago) it had a lot of features I thought were pretty innovative... such as needle up/down setting, speed control, start/stop button to use in place of the foot control, and automatic needle threader. Now, those features are standard on many machines. My Pfaff has no presser foot lever, and that is a huge time saver when I'm piecing a quilt. It is all automatic, but has a knee lift for the presser foot, or a button to raise or lower it if I need to. It has a scissor function, as well. It's taking me some time to get used to raising and lowering the presser foot manually, but after I cleaned it all up and took half a mountain of lint out of the bobbin case, it sews like a charm. This machine will likely go to one of my grandchildren, when they are ready to start sewing. </div>
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I had over a month long bout with bronchitis, so did not feel up to doing much sewing. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5kTP3bieX2DvMMRJOntfpeIXyiYK1zhZH9j_mEDaW087McqTDe4mRo6r4Hd9CtoVDXaI5a25K9LnNHXkZLEvacTbIlABnPgAJyxcD5dT-e03buj7H2YReTnqq7q77GNTSCIZHRHhDaM/s1600/Arlo%2527s+baby+afghan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="808" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5kTP3bieX2DvMMRJOntfpeIXyiYK1zhZH9j_mEDaW087McqTDe4mRo6r4Hd9CtoVDXaI5a25K9LnNHXkZLEvacTbIlABnPgAJyxcD5dT-e03buj7H2YReTnqq7q77GNTSCIZHRHhDaM/s320/Arlo%2527s+baby+afghan.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
I did manage to crochet my first ripple afghan... a baby boy afghan for my second great-grandchild, due in a couple of weeks (shown at left). I also made him two baby quilts, and finished two baby girl quilts for my first great-grandchild, born in March, in time for her birth. I'm working on a couple of quilts that will probably be queen sized, if I don't get tired of them before they get that large! One of them was started several months ago, and I pulled it out again when I got tired of sewing on the current flimsy. I had 6 blocks completed on this quilt, and several more cut out and ready to sew. I sewed one more, taking photos as I did, for this blog. </div>
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I saw a version of this quilt demonstrated on Fons and Porter's TV show. As always, I try to figure out a way I can rotary cut and simplify the block. I have a June Tailor Shape Cut ruler that is as necessary to me as my right hand. I can cut many strips at a time, usually several thicknesses, too, so the cutting goes fairly fast. It takes me longer to dig out the fabrics from my stash, and then fold the yardage back up for storage again. This is a block with many pieces... 41, if I count the half square triangles made with the 7" square as 8. The instructions on making those speedy HST, 8 at a time, is on a prior blog: http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2014/09/gluten-free-popovers-and-speedy-half.html. I also have links on the right, to access prior blogs. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrkaSLzVSNuo_CF4f_lSnV-I-iQjOZd7OzApAq5pTuYXTYAAh2e4-p72yacF8I0j5EIjpAi05Pd8zp_kWS4roATuaLp7XL13WInlp-pWEm_wI0Ka-I8QTrEFZUcuKANMKrbgg8JLKHZc/s1600/star+flower+7+blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="782" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrkaSLzVSNuo_CF4f_lSnV-I-iQjOZd7OzApAq5pTuYXTYAAh2e4-p72yacF8I0j5EIjpAi05Pd8zp_kWS4roATuaLp7XL13WInlp-pWEm_wI0Ka-I8QTrEFZUcuKANMKrbgg8JLKHZc/s400/star+flower+7+blocks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is a photo of the 7 completed blocks on my design wall. I think I will join them with sashing and a print square to match the center of the star between blocks on the sashing. My blocks are mainly made up of florals, so I am calling it Star Flower. </div>
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I also made a sample block for a child's quilt, made of a fat quarter bundle of puppy and kitten prints, with a tiny star on gold for the background on this quilt. See photo at right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0msPau4Sd91vlNbOYPM-plq41vUgku2-_YO2ImxRAUl_pGeSTj6plEJJleYG2J8TY5BuflFuwb9zorvvwM1VUXBiJPcQOtWtO1LqboTqceorSgIfhyphenhyphensxaCTF9LCPLZTm_Z5eYElGjwsg/s1600/child+star+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0msPau4Sd91vlNbOYPM-plq41vUgku2-_YO2ImxRAUl_pGeSTj6plEJJleYG2J8TY5BuflFuwb9zorvvwM1VUXBiJPcQOtWtO1LqboTqceorSgIfhyphenhyphensxaCTF9LCPLZTm_Z5eYElGjwsg/s320/child+star+flower.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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<b>Star Flower Block:</b></div>
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For each
block, 15” finished size:<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 each 7”
square of background and Print A, to be sewn diagonally both ways and cut to
make 8 HST’s. (Shown as light blue on block at right)<o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – 3-1/2”
Print A squares, to be cut diagonally to make 8 HST’s <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – 3”
background squares (Shown as gold star)<br />
6 - 3-1/2”
Print B squares, to be cut diagonally to make 12 HST’s (Shown as orange on photo at right)</div>
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4 – 4”
squares Print C (Shown as light print)<o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – 3”
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1 – 4”
square print D, center square <o:p></o:p></div>
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For speedier cutting, I cut 7" strips of prints and background, and then cut those strips into 7" segments. Of the same prints, I cut 3-1/2" strips and cut those into 3-1/2" segments, then cut those squares diagonally to make half square triangles. These will comprise the "frame" with the 8 HST's.</div>
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Background: 3" strips, cut into 3" segments.</div>
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Print B: Cut 3-1/2" strips, cut into 3-1/2" segments; cut squares diagonally to make HST's.<br />
Print C: Cut 4" strips, cut those into 4" segments, Cut 3" strips, cut those into 3' segments.<br />
Print D: Center square; cut 4" strips, cut into 4" segments.<br />
I put each size square into a stack and then chose coordinating prints to make my blocks. I used a Wonder clip to hold the pieces together. Next, I put a 7" square of print and one of background together, right sides facing, and drew the sewing lines, as shown in the instructions for making 8 HST's at a time. Because there are so many pieces, it does take some time to sew each block. I always press as I sew, and have my ironing board at a right angle to my sewing table, so I can simply swivel to press.<br />
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This block can easily be broken down into units to be joined
like a 9-patch. Each of my 9 patches
trimmed down to 5-1/2” before finishing, or 5” when finished. Sometimes I trim the blocks, but not always. Trimming takes additional time, so it depends on how much time I want to spend on the block, but it does look neater. See photo below to see the layout of the 9 segments of the block.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9SBx3Nq5Iixi6DjknUftImb3OzbSHKm_60f0vbRmsNoeVEaVsvvcdJlOYmawUPlCN5Gts2Vo4NocoJCmMeR15P_PugUdzzK5q8evz3Mk6gmjitVqqT_6TtVutfBmQS3Zr9WkB5XZFJE/s1600/9+patch+star+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="816" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9SBx3Nq5Iixi6DjknUftImb3OzbSHKm_60f0vbRmsNoeVEaVsvvcdJlOYmawUPlCN5Gts2Vo4NocoJCmMeR15P_PugUdzzK5q8evz3Mk6gmjitVqqT_6TtVutfBmQS3Zr9WkB5XZFJE/s320/9+patch+star+flower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sew 4 print
B HST’s to center square print D. Center
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hRuoMFgl_Jm2OMYWK6e7-B7TZ8Nkg8Br2t7wHd7KkTofH3dL4ej4lXeWTRdfd5PIKmKIc0iw1uaxHe5dNSS9WCkSqsbzAEhivXYvgsknFSR7Km6m7amc9im9Pdbm98N06G0jSQBQ5ks/s1600/star+flower+center+square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="793" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hRuoMFgl_Jm2OMYWK6e7-B7TZ8Nkg8Br2t7wHd7KkTofH3dL4ej4lXeWTRdfd5PIKmKIc0iw1uaxHe5dNSS9WCkSqsbzAEhivXYvgsknFSR7Km6m7amc9im9Pdbm98N06G0jSQBQ5ks/s200/star+flower+center+square.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrX7GW_MvfzENcKKyoD_rvH4ftrsxi8y3TquW5InO0ELXrUo1szZi-snFCYqRuN78JF29dtZgPGquDex8J6Tx0QrgORxRfGo5MrdSgF8xTNeXXpzs0JOwa3b315ZPBtjTpnITli0k6hww/s1600/star+flower+2+colors+HST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="786" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrX7GW_MvfzENcKKyoD_rvH4ftrsxi8y3TquW5InO0ELXrUo1szZi-snFCYqRuN78JF29dtZgPGquDex8J6Tx0QrgORxRfGo5MrdSgF8xTNeXXpzs0JOwa3b315ZPBtjTpnITli0k6hww/s200/star+flower+2+colors+HST.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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Sew 2 print
B HST’s to same side of 4” print C square (8 HST’s). <o:p></o:p><br />
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Sew 2 print
A HST’s to opposite side of 4” print C squares (8 HST’s)</div>
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4
square-in-a-square units formed with 2 colors of HST’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
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See photo at right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPeHSIWJVTUY-iKqnlqeOsJOoUdroR_1w7RDjU-l2hRxk54_wF_-w5JtEwhcyC4eZqior_DG3lj-bbTMJyJ6cdQ48jBQsEx8wNnGJghzE_22rE_C8z4VSPRw7pLnxjO2KPNARn7UrdiY/s1600/corner+segment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="788" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPeHSIWJVTUY-iKqnlqeOsJOoUdroR_1w7RDjU-l2hRxk54_wF_-w5JtEwhcyC4eZqior_DG3lj-bbTMJyJ6cdQ48jBQsEx8wNnGJghzE_22rE_C8z4VSPRw7pLnxjO2KPNARn7UrdiY/s200/corner+segment.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Corners: Join
2 HST of Print A, 1 Print C squares and 1 background square, as shown. Complete all 4 corner units.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There are
now 9 completed units. Join them in horizontal or vertical rows, pinning at
intersections. I found it helpful to sew with the side facing me that had the HST's attached to the center square, so I could more easily match the points. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here is the completed block:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIZOdmrJnEiiiKvCmhY0HamT8AlaijvulL_107Fi0AQJ8rOg9i2IuVyaxLfsh0zR2qTbsncRowRRXag1KBYNMiDUsZaiBGRe9TwqiholG0L2N9hCHKXB3PRJukazc_WQZyV5hIyWlEaw/s1600/starflower+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="801" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIZOdmrJnEiiiKvCmhY0HamT8AlaijvulL_107Fi0AQJ8rOg9i2IuVyaxLfsh0zR2qTbsncRowRRXag1KBYNMiDUsZaiBGRe9TwqiholG0L2N9hCHKXB3PRJukazc_WQZyV5hIyWlEaw/s400/starflower+blue.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
I love this block in floral fabrics... my fabrics are all in the blue, green, and pink families for this quilt. It has a romantic, feminine vibe that feels traditional but modern. The background is a very pale celery tone-on-tone, that reads white from a distance. <br />
<br />
It's been a long time since I took the time to photograph my blocks in progress and post them to a blog, but I will try to do better. I have some baby quilts I need to write tutorials on, among others. I have some lovely fabrics with an Asian flavor that I've made a large snuggle quilt with... it's sandwiched and ready to quilt. It was a quick and easy quilt to make, as I wanted to find a pattern that could showcase the beautiful luxurious fabrics. I have so many ideas for quilts... and so much fabric to make them with! And another Christmas is just around the corner. <br />
<br />
It seems overnight the days have gotten so much shorter already. Some places have already gotten shots of snow and cold, but here in southern Ohio, it is still hot and humid. I hope whatever the weather where you are, that you are safe in this season of terrible storms.<br />
<br /></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-73835271236064975022016-08-29T13:55:00.000-07:002017-01-28T10:01:27.892-08:00Sausage Scramble and Jelly Roll Stars<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sausage Scramble and Jelly Roll Stars:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This seems like an appropriate title for something that
sounds delicious! The sausage scramble
is something I’ve been making for breakfast or lunch for quite a while… it’s
low in carbs and satisfying. I put a lot
of vegetables in mine, which add to the flavor, and occasionally I will make it
with hot sausage, or if regular pork sausage is on sale, I add some hot pepper
flakes to it. Here’s my recipe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sausage Scramble:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brown 1# pork sausage in a large pan. As the sausage cooks, add: </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
½ to 1 cup chopped onion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 green pepper, chopped (use less, if desired)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 red or yellow pepper, chopped (use less, if desired)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 to 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms (optional)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 – 2# bag of southern style frozen hash brown potatoes (squares, not the shredded potatoes)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Red Pepper flakes, optional)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cover pan and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes longer, until
everything is heated through and potatoes are cooked. Cool slightly and store in a covered
container in the refrigerator. To serve,
put one cup of the sausage mixture into a small frying pan (no additional
grease needed), cover and heat through on medium heat, about 5 minutes. I put an egg in the center when it has heated,
turn the heat to medium/low, cover again, and let the moisture steam the
egg. This scramble makes enough for
meals for at least a week for me, and doesn’t raise my glucose much. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
The Jelly Roll Stars are not part of my breakfast, although I wish they could
be! I am partial to pre-cut fabrics, and
in quilting jargon, a jelly roll is a package of 2-1/2” strips, usually with 40
to 42 strips in a roll. They often have at
least 2 of each color in a complete fabric line of the designer, so they are an
easy way to get a variety of fabric for quilt blocks without having to buy a
lot of yardage. I’ve been “playing” with
<o:p></o:p></div>
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various ways to use the strips, mostly in more traditional blocks. Two jelly roll strips can be joined the long
way on both sides, and then cut into triangles using a right-angle ruler, like
the E-Z cut ruler. The few stitches at the tip of the triangle pull out easily,
and when the triangle is opened, it is a 3-1/2” half square triangle! One strip set will yield about 15 half square
triangles. For this star pattern, also
known as the LeMoyne Star, or in some areas it is shortened to “Lemon Star”,
you need three different sets of 4 HST’s: the two main colors together and each
of the main colors with a background color.
So each of the jelly roll strips will yield enough HST’s for 3 blocks,
plus 3 of each color left over for another project. If you want the blocks to be scrappy, it
takes 14” of fabric to make the 4 HST’s, so you would need 28” of each of 2
colors and 28” of background fabric to make a block, plus 14” of a 3-1/2” strip
to make four 3-1/2” background squares for the corners. I cut the corner strips from yardage with the
June Tailor Shape Cut ruler, into 3-1/2” strips and then cut <br />
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those into 3-1/2”
squares. Most patterns for the LeMoyne
Star use y-seams, or inset seams, but by using the HST’s, it can be made in
rows and the rows joined to make the stars.
I like to lay the block out on the ironing board next to my sewing
machine, and sew the pieces in each row together, then join the horizontal rows
to complete the block. The only pinning
I do is joining the horizontal rows… with one pin where the pieces of the star
connect, three pins in each row. By
checking to make sure the “points” match as I pin, the stars come together
easily, without cut-off points. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
TIP: Remember to
remove the selvedge before you measure the 14”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
There are many different ways the blocks can be set… they
can be joined as they are, or with added sashing to separate the blocks. The 4 corners could be “snowballed” to give
it a different look when the blocks are sashed and joined. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
I googled “History of the LeMoyne Star quilt block” and found this information:
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lemoyne Star” is the name of a traditional quilt design
whose earliest known published date is 1911 (according to Barbara Brackman’s
Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns). It falls into the category of
“eight-point/45° diamond stars.” The pattern itself has earlier origins than
its published date. Ruth Finley in her book Old Patchwork Quilts and the Women
Who Made Them, 1929, states that this particular quilt block was called “Star
of Lemoyne”, “Lemoyne Star”, or “Lemon Star” (in New England), and she reveals
that the design takes its name from the two LeMoyne brothers who settled
Louisiana in 1699.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Patricia L. Cummings, Quilter’s Muse Virtual Museum, <a href="http://www.quiltersmuse.com/Lemoyne_Star_miniature_quilt.htm">www.quiltersmuse.com/Lemoyne_Star_miniature_quilt.htm</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was cutting several 2-1/2” strips from my yardage when I
purchased new fabric long before they were popular to use, long before they
were coined “jelly rolls”. I sorted them
into bins according to color: light, medium, and dark. I also cut 1-1/2” strips and sorted those
into bins of light and dark. I now cut
5” strips, as well, and cut those into 5” pieces, to make my own charm squares.
Since I learned to make 8 half square
triangles from 2 squares of fabric, I also have small bins with 10”, 8” and 6”
strips to facilitate cutting those. It’s
easy for me to pull strips from the bins when I want to start a new quilt or
test a pattern by making a block or two.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We quilters are fortunate to have so much information at our
fingertips on the internet… and so many talented authors of quilt books demonstrating
new, modern methods of cutting and sewing the pieces. Pre-cuts give us instant variety and the
luxury of having the strips or pieces already cut and ready for our own
creativity to transform them into works of art when the inspiration hits. Quilters truly are artists who use fabric as their medium. Modern quilters paint portraits and
landscapes with fabric and thread, moving far out of the familiar realm of the beginning quilters who initiated us into their society. Most quilters have generous spirits…
many of the quilters I know donate dozens and even hundreds of charity quilts annually to various
organizations, and those quilts provide blankets of love for the
recipients. Quilting provides me a
marvelous opportunity to exercise my creativity, and the list of quilts I want
to make “someday” far exceeds the years I have yet to live, I fear. Quilts are like dear friends… we cherish the
old but always appreciate the color and warmth new ones add to the fabric of
our lives.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sausage Scramble</div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-49921515939913429272016-08-28T21:58:00.002-07:002016-08-28T21:58:44.915-07:00Bacon and Bootie Slippers:<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bacon and
Bootie Slippers:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I like
bacon, but I do NOT like cooking bacon!
It’s messy and I seem to have grease everywhere. I was talking to one of my long-time friends
the other day about omelets, and she told me one of her favorites is a bacon
and cheese omelet. I don’t like eggs
much, but my glucose numbers appreciate them!
My omelet of choice is usually mushroom and cheese or fresh tomatoes,
herbs, and cheese. I have been
visualizing the flavor of Priss’s bacon and cheese omelet… and today I bit the
bullet and cooked up a pound of bacon to use for omelets, green salad garnish,
and other things. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I sliced the
whole pound, still layered as it was in the package, into about ¾” slices and
put them into my “omelet for one” pan on medium heat. I covered it for the first few minutes until
the bacon <o:p></o:p></div>
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warmed and the slices began to separate into pieces. Then I continued cooking it on medium heat,
draining off the fat a couple of times, until the pieces were crispy but not
cooked hard. I drained the cooked pieces
and put them on a paper towel to absorb more of the grease. It worked out very well. I’ll store the bacon in my refrigerator and
enjoy it without having to go through cooking it every time. I’ll keep the bacon grease to use in
cooking. That pound of bacon yielded
EIGHT OUNCES of grease! My husband used
to love bacon grease spread on home-made bread, liberally salted! I never tried it, and doubt I ever will. My lunch was a bacon and cheese omelet. Here’s how I make mine.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Omelet:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Lightly beat
one or two eggs in a small bowl with a fork.
Beat in a bit of salt and pepper, and about a<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tablespoon of whipping
cream. Pour into a small non-stick pan,
coated with about a teaspoon of butter or bacon grease. Cook over medium to low heat, lifting up the
edge of the omelet and tipping the pan so the egg on top runs to the bottom of
the omelet. When the egg looks mostly
cooked, I spread the filling on one side of the middle, then flip the part
without the filling over the other half.
Cook a few minutes longer, to melt the cheese and/or warm the
filling. Slide the omelet onto a plate
and enjoy! <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
For a
mushroom omelet, sauté the sliced fresh mushrooms in about a Tablespoon of
butter, then remove them to a small dish, cook the omelet, and then fill it
with the cooked mushrooms and some shredded cheese. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
For a tomato omelet, sauté a chopped Roma
tomato with basil, chives or green onion, sometimes adding other herbs. The tomato filling is spread on the omelet and
topped with shredded cheese. A
Bacon/Cheese omelet is made the same way, with about ¼ cup of cooked bacon bits
and a small handful of shredded cheese.
A ham and cheese omelet is made the same way, using diced ham in place
of the bacon. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
It turned out
great, and I liked the bacon and cheese combination so much I made a grilled
cheese sandwich for supper… with a slice of American cheese, a slice of Hot
Pepper cheese, and bacon pieces in the middle.
I thought I had invented something new, until my sister told me her
friend has been making those grilled bacon and cheese sandwiches for years!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
My Minnesota
grandchildren were here with me for a few weeks again this summer. They didn't want to do any sewing projects
this time, preferring to just relax and unwind by playing video games and
watching movies. Of course, Charlotte
and Quentin had their cheese omelets nearly every morning. Some things never change! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I had knit
slippers for the children, and they loved them!
It’s always fun to make things when they are so much appreciated. Here’s the basic pattern I used… I
experimented and used more or less stitches and rows to vary the sizes. The slippers shown at the left would fit a large man, a baby, and a 2 or 3 year old.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Knitted Bootie Slippers:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Size 10-1/2
circular needless (I made two slippers at the same time)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Knitting
worsted weight yarn, 2 strands used to knit the slipper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
This pattern
makes an adult medium size (about a woman’s 7 to 9), but size depends on type
of yarn used and can be varied by using more or less stitches.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Cast on 60 stitches for each slipper</b>. I used 2 separate balls for each slipper,
doing them at the same time. This way,
they will look the same, if you make a striped pattern or vary yarns.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Knit 10 rows</b>. This garter stitch section will form the
bottom of the slipper. If you want a
wider slipper, you could knit 12 rows in garter stitch. A child size might only be 6 or 8 rows of
garter stitch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Next row:
<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Row 1:</b>
Knit to half the stitches, minus 3.
With 60 stitches, that means knit 27 stitches,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Knit 2 together, purl 2,
knit 2 together, knit to end of row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Row 2:</b>
Purl 26 stitches, Purl 2 together, knit 2, purl 2 together, purl to end
of row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Repeat these
two rows, always using one less stitch to the center section of each row, until
30 stitches remain (half the original amount of stitches). For example, row 3 would be 25 stitches
before knitting 2 together, row 4 would be 24 stitches, etc. You are decreasing 2 stitches on each row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
End on a
knit row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Cuff:</b>
Knit every row for 8 rows. Bind
off the 30 remaining stitches on each slipper.
Sew bottom and back seams. Here are photos of the grandchildren in their slippers... Ava's are lavender, Quentin has the purple slippers and Charlotte has the pink, of course. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIbMu4haZKSDFtMvQWZYUJK8pmX0vdVzCs5v3MMm-RPri2aGBXsjMbKuz_CQd7aX6LSdN0kHNKyTFsVeGs-Kb0GfmewcBx4w_1JWxy_S1qCMBQtfjKi2kGhw5XKRlElrziz9jVF1RV9c/s1600/Ava%2527s+slippers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIbMu4haZKSDFtMvQWZYUJK8pmX0vdVzCs5v3MMm-RPri2aGBXsjMbKuz_CQd7aX6LSdN0kHNKyTFsVeGs-Kb0GfmewcBx4w_1JWxy_S1qCMBQtfjKi2kGhw5XKRlElrziz9jVF1RV9c/s320/Ava%2527s+slippers.jpg" width="137" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gkD5PXanewRmj2LGDn2tzAnJXnPcY578UY1317n-uVJ7UXdorAcAZYF8wS6LdIPoJstczwb7kSjnbL0ByYQuH8CfASDpcQMxjwhyphenhyphenNaSMF86BK6ZueaenIbsG9EgLESAC2ZcCW0VwHfk/s1600/charlotte+slippers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gkD5PXanewRmj2LGDn2tzAnJXnPcY578UY1317n-uVJ7UXdorAcAZYF8wS6LdIPoJstczwb7kSjnbL0ByYQuH8CfASDpcQMxjwhyphenhyphenNaSMF86BK6ZueaenIbsG9EgLESAC2ZcCW0VwHfk/s320/charlotte+slippers.jpg" width="320" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsivxNrS1_SEzuXiJX0LdH-B9SmUj9cLxlxU2eI7EI7hAv4Rq5cIkmky_yOWffICZg5hIModjjbFEo6VuBJ1xjZvpkyUfkOaX2lcjTQY2SFvUmTLeW-AVudFlJcwrDaJu2YsObPX-r6UQ/s1600/Quentin%2527s+slippers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsivxNrS1_SEzuXiJX0LdH-B9SmUj9cLxlxU2eI7EI7hAv4Rq5cIkmky_yOWffICZg5hIModjjbFEo6VuBJ1xjZvpkyUfkOaX2lcjTQY2SFvUmTLeW-AVudFlJcwrDaJu2YsObPX-r6UQ/s320/Quentin%2527s+slippers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I have
wanted a yarn bowl for a long time, but they are not cheap. I recently saw a wooden yarn bowl on sale,
but when I looked at the dimensions, it was only about 6” across. Then I saw a tip on using the little paper
clips on a container to keep the yarn separated… and it works like a
charm. Here’s a photo of my NEW AND
IMPROVED yarn bowl (or basket). I had
originally bought the clips to use for sandwiching quilts, but they weren’t big
enough… now I have a use for at least a few of them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMknOy4b15md6k_z4jMNntzpuoiFwwuwTTrh7Zip7NJoNJHJpUbZerVedUXL5A78SPFmj0k-j_kWfr8wWXSrTcmFpkPJwClBPZh4ZwFpimbKgGLvYh_HQcHegFbxWT_1bPtfbxALzfKWI/s1600/yarn+basket2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMknOy4b15md6k_z4jMNntzpuoiFwwuwTTrh7Zip7NJoNJHJpUbZerVedUXL5A78SPFmj0k-j_kWfr8wWXSrTcmFpkPJwClBPZh4ZwFpimbKgGLvYh_HQcHegFbxWT_1bPtfbxALzfKWI/s320/yarn+basket2.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I would rather come up with a unique idea any
day than spend a lot of money on something marketed to make me want to buy
it! <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I've been marathon watching episodes of Outlander… for the second
time. I watched them when they were
first aired, but like a lot of things, much of it was forgotten. I tend to listen to TV while I am
sewing! On this second time around, I am
picking up things I didn’t catch the first time. It’s a wonderful historical drama about time
travel and Scotland in the 1700’s and all the political strife between European
countries at that time… marking the beginning of the end of the Highland Scottish
clans and their way of life. The scenery
is hauntingly beautiful, as is the background music, and the romance is a bit
more graphic than I’m used to, but… it hasn’t given me a heart attack yet! The series is based on novels written by
Diana Gabaldon, and a friend recommended it to me when it first was being aired
on Starz. I just noticed the first
season is available on Netflix, but both seasons are still “on demand” on my
cable network. If you are in the mood
for some escapism… this might be a good place to start your journey. <o:p></o:p></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-36901384947142484702016-08-23T15:09:00.001-07:002016-08-23T15:09:57.795-07:00Tuscan Chicken and Kaleidoscope Quilts<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tuscan Chicken
and Kaleidoscope Quilts<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Summer sun…
one of the things I love most about Cincinnati.
We seldom have a day that doesn't have some sunshine, even when it’s
stormy. The humidity is high most of the
time, but the central air conditioning keeps me quite comfortable and able to
quilt year ‘round. A couple of quilts
I’m working on presently are kaleidoscope quilts. Kaleidoscope quilts have so many patterns that emerge when the blocks are put together. My love of kaleidoscopes goes back over 40
years, when I started some kaleidoscope blocks in all colors from my limited fabric
stash at that time. Most of the fabrics
in the quilt were remnants from clothing sewn for my family, and pieced
whenever I could find some spare minutes… usually at night, after my children
were in bed. These pieces were cut by
hand with scissors, using cardboard templates. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFlsXerS6QOSyhtqq-MI1E-Y5s4L_VObQwuQVkHktJpHIJLZbkHcpjC2zY1MjA0MQgy3Z0Hf22zvJBSv71BhDg8T-IPqziwUAPHuDyEYykd9Sh6oHQzA857rhbxO8nipSyxmVdtLKC_Y/s1600/scrappy+kaleidoscope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFlsXerS6QOSyhtqq-MI1E-Y5s4L_VObQwuQVkHktJpHIJLZbkHcpjC2zY1MjA0MQgy3Z0Hf22zvJBSv71BhDg8T-IPqziwUAPHuDyEYykd9Sh6oHQzA857rhbxO8nipSyxmVdtLKC_Y/s320/scrappy+kaleidoscope.jpg" width="305" /></a></div>
The
sections were hand quilted (thanks to Georgia Bonesteel’s wonderful
instructions for QAYG… quilt as you go), while I was sitting in PTA and church
meetings. I never did finish this quilt…
I think I have 3 sections done… and I have no idea where the shoebox of pieces
to complete the quilt is hiding, after the move to Ohio from Minnesota. Perhaps the sections will be made into baby
quilts, instead of becoming another bed quilt.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
One “new”
kaleidoscope is done with Robert Kaufman’s Tuscan Wildflower fabric line. Butterflies and flowers flitter across the
blocks in purples, pinks, teals, and shades of ivory. To make this quilt, I joined 2-1/2” jelly
roll strips in sets of three, then cut them into triangles with a kaleidoscope
ruler. The ivory fabrics were also
Kaufman fabrics from other lines, and joined in strip sets of three, as
well. Each block takes four <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtN88B8mF6tIB1e-kGpIv8lU5TEiz3gYXgtMiqOzNVwYAmyM5tJ9IuO9-0UAOLl34pg0atM4rB2MiglkTaoWLYJEmhc6UeUKMPRvzQspCQkgXjPzgOlGl6WQZRHrsXKRjCPM0eAyL-Z1M/s1600/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtN88B8mF6tIB1e-kGpIv8lU5TEiz3gYXgtMiqOzNVwYAmyM5tJ9IuO9-0UAOLl34pg0atM4rB2MiglkTaoWLYJEmhc6UeUKMPRvzQspCQkgXjPzgOlGl6WQZRHrsXKRjCPM0eAyL-Z1M/s320/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2c_vpcq7sSkskhqVmKGz1wicEs9oGmwSJU6Rv2CTorGwDIFi3vRyZuiQiiIVwdqzaGCBPEp8iCwjXFBeUe_3joEbIxrmFEkXduMCzD2pd6lx6wBqxU4rLh4v72Hrh7vhkBVugH8eA60Y/s1600/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan+ivory+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2c_vpcq7sSkskhqVmKGz1wicEs9oGmwSJU6Rv2CTorGwDIFi3vRyZuiQiiIVwdqzaGCBPEp8iCwjXFBeUe_3joEbIxrmFEkXduMCzD2pd6lx6wBqxU4rLh4v72Hrh7vhkBVugH8eA60Y/s200/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan+ivory+block.jpg" width="200" /></a>triangles of
each of the strip sets, four prints and four ivories. The corners are Fossil Fern fabric in a
coordinating shade of teal. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UmUtEgUSOuyVnP9bxfutKrX4clC48Rt2sPsNnz-pDjgV_LWox5biYuhLo5nQg7xe8N4vu0_LNH727xgFQNWeM5id_b6E0BDFPxFNuQ4PCy6cau0dr0xfzJmQMOgjYbj1uf0Yt9veQhU/s1600/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan+teal+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UmUtEgUSOuyVnP9bxfutKrX4clC48Rt2sPsNnz-pDjgV_LWox5biYuhLo5nQg7xe8N4vu0_LNH727xgFQNWeM5id_b6E0BDFPxFNuQ4PCy6cau0dr0xfzJmQMOgjYbj1uf0Yt9veQhU/s200/Kaleidoscope+Kaufman+Tuscan+teal+block.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Two blocks form the patterns on this quilt (shown on the right), one with the Fossil Fern Teal corners and the other block with Ivory corners. The two form pinwheel blocks where they meet, as shown in the photo above. Only the blocks in the top two rows have been joined, so far,<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The third
kaleidoscope quilt, shown below, is done with various pastel and medium-range jelly roll
strips cut from my stash, which has grown far beyond expectations since my
early days of quilting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1aEJXLphK6ExATrPtgt6pmGBK7yYowHt-iZkpRnVjBu0GcZZ1lKwSsmjXhLqsPNrbRliW2raTZ7UOfJhsTgqsZXFKHmxouufa4eAGc_Bf23KhPP-DsU14Youis-8vZURovV_wr5-Vfk/s1600/kaleidoscope+ruler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1aEJXLphK6ExATrPtgt6pmGBK7yYowHt-iZkpRnVjBu0GcZZ1lKwSsmjXhLqsPNrbRliW2raTZ7UOfJhsTgqsZXFKHmxouufa4eAGc_Bf23KhPP-DsU14Youis-8vZURovV_wr5-Vfk/s200/kaleidoscope+ruler.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczn169WQ-uvYZ16n9ZuxPnFqYa5oq-VzvbX8wxQGBNfmNUC6Gw1K8pR6M3VpKjE3UykL_PYm5iT2p2CNgONwxPOt1xJpYB4k53erzlmK4fY_0wt05qb9R6XXGHrKyCmYnsruO-KByRdU/s1600/strip+cutting+muslin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczn169WQ-uvYZ16n9ZuxPnFqYa5oq-VzvbX8wxQGBNfmNUC6Gw1K8pR6M3VpKjE3UykL_PYm5iT2p2CNgONwxPOt1xJpYB4k53erzlmK4fY_0wt05qb9R6XXGHrKyCmYnsruO-KByRdU/s200/strip+cutting+muslin.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
The kaleidoscope ruler is shown at left, and the June Tailor Shape Cut ruler on the right. The alternate
triangles are cut from 6-1/2” strips of unbleached muslin, and the corner
pieces are cut from 4” strips of muslin.
Those strips are cut into 4” squares, and those squares are cut once on
the<br />
diagonal to make the corner triangles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9eZVT6Rb6w3hVpzETssjbAwayfhmA9OA-h102p1VCpvLJeS1IvTjzwNEzrBhdNKPYkoFSzrNsxiymyd4iNTWlptkAV-oeo_ZPsnopsZHZwqLfQFY2ZlcOR2YKJPO1URhdvpDJQ0LWnw/s1600/cutting+muslin+kaleidoscope+triangles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9eZVT6Rb6w3hVpzETssjbAwayfhmA9OA-h102p1VCpvLJeS1IvTjzwNEzrBhdNKPYkoFSzrNsxiymyd4iNTWlptkAV-oeo_ZPsnopsZHZwqLfQFY2ZlcOR2YKJPO1URhdvpDJQ0LWnw/s200/cutting+muslin+kaleidoscope+triangles.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu2TZ41RBeN-dpfujx6ckx_LfTNBoN441dF75kC3UbDT5hWGWmnwH1UAG-M5R0av3F-YDjt3kVpxQ2IQhkr60ViogwbYvgq_8G6-hgI7REvbkEaBTLF5vtKSVyAx9eIQr-fLzDuglDM4/s1600/Muslin+Kaleidoscope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu2TZ41RBeN-dpfujx6ckx_LfTNBoN441dF75kC3UbDT5hWGWmnwH1UAG-M5R0av3F-YDjt3kVpxQ2IQhkr60ViogwbYvgq_8G6-hgI7REvbkEaBTLF5vtKSVyAx9eIQr-fLzDuglDM4/s320/Muslin+Kaleidoscope.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTAEadaS_cKnnhunQzGDO3smb-Kai-hsFk8PjsFEmJQWCs55hzrYX-K9V1pBSs3m25RDbvfLgYChcdij0fRr7ZsJNoURugEfQ9E_Z4irZ3tYUUTyomqbmSHLZf-K9_Z52Dp4IpWzAdmY/s1600/muslin+kaleidoscope+add+corners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTJ3TUIKu3Gd83H-l3NdGFdLU1XdCpI0_zWS37VSTS6xvXMeH-PHir9VhkGhG6-YPCKj1xE2q4rZOk60fy5r9kER6_wmPqanDg9mIahOvnRtyoNdtdlqN7xqciLZK9_kvop6Ey2h20hM/s1600/muslin+sections+of+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTJ3TUIKu3Gd83H-l3NdGFdLU1XdCpI0_zWS37VSTS6xvXMeH-PHir9VhkGhG6-YPCKj1xE2q4rZOk60fy5r9kER6_wmPqanDg9mIahOvnRtyoNdtdlqN7xqciLZK9_kvop6Ey2h20hM/s200/muslin+sections+of+2.jpg" width="200" /></a><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTAEadaS_cKnnhunQzGDO3smb-Kai-hsFk8PjsFEmJQWCs55hzrYX-K9V1pBSs3m25RDbvfLgYChcdij0fRr7ZsJNoURugEfQ9E_Z4irZ3tYUUTyomqbmSHLZf-K9_Z52Dp4IpWzAdmY/s200/muslin+kaleidoscope+add+corners.jpg" width="200" /><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Sewing the pieces of the block together is
really not difficult, even though many of the seams are on the bias. The trick I learned after sewing a few blocks
is to start sewing from the wide end of the triangles and tapering down to the
point. Then when I joined two sets of
two triangles together, I again paid close attention to butting the seams at
the point. I joined four of the
triangles together at a time, so that I had two halves of the block. I pressed the halves carefully, pressing the
seams of each half in opposite directions so the seams would butt together at
the center where all the points meet. I </span><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;">didn't</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"> need to use any pins until I joined the two halves of the kaleidoscope
block. I just put one pin at the center,
checking to make sure the “triangle points” met, adjusting, if necessary. Most of the centers match almost perfectly,
but if there is a slight difference, I think that will not be very apparent
when it is quilted. After joining the
eight triangles to form the kaleidoscope, I sewed the four corners on the
block. The photos to the left show the four 2-piece sections ready to join, and the completed triangles ready to put on the corner pieces. The photo below shows how to butt the seams to achieve a better joining of the points in the center of the block.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8ahAKOn6abkGEPWk8nBIk0_ckgb7AiGSkd-qFrG2aMGQ40Cd9qpFmdVeHhdv2DPQKje0ykztr0apiq0dyLQX430ZN5je0d0ESpjXiOxo4R-KOLZw2F6atjH82XX6C_zNgVeEtNMHrgg/s1600/matching+seams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8ahAKOn6abkGEPWk8nBIk0_ckgb7AiGSkd-qFrG2aMGQ40Cd9qpFmdVeHhdv2DPQKje0ykztr0apiq0dyLQX430ZN5je0d0ESpjXiOxo4R-KOLZw2F6atjH82XX6C_zNgVeEtNMHrgg/s200/matching+seams.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">I did notice that using the
thinner muslin required trimming the block after it was sewn, whereas blocks
pieced with the heavier Kaufman fabrics </span><span style="line-height: 15.6933336257935px;">didn't</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"> need to be trimmed. Working with the lovely Kaufman Tuscan Wildflower
fabrics led me to dream up other Tuscan delights! </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">I made this chicken dish this afternoon, as
well. Most of it went into a casserole
to be warmed up for mother/daughter night this week, but I did save some out
for my own dinner tonight, and it was truly delicious. I call it scrumptious! I bought a family pack of boneless skinless
chicken breasts, and there were six breasts in the pack… so three went into
this recipe and the other three are in the slow cooker tonight, and will be
part of the filling for chicken enchiladas.
I also got some tortillas that were low carb, high fiber… 6 carbs per tortilla, to make the enchiladas.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Scrumptious Chicken, Tuscan Style:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftPKOPGnsNB071_54vJjqpLMMvrCYmVVuoP78eHkV7krPiVTskww_x9CggJ6ekhNmY7FWcx8laW6saHQGajDqVFSIwVH66jluXE0nJUB2MbB_K4DuPHF1noOH3xRrjS-IEY3eDxvEMUE/s1600/Chicken%252C+Tuscan+Style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftPKOPGnsNB071_54vJjqpLMMvrCYmVVuoP78eHkV7krPiVTskww_x9CggJ6ekhNmY7FWcx8laW6saHQGajDqVFSIwVH66jluXE0nJUB2MbB_K4DuPHF1noOH3xRrjS-IEY3eDxvEMUE/s320/Chicken%252C+Tuscan+Style.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mix in a pie
pan or plate:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
½ cup
all-purpose flour <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
½ teaspoon
salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
¼ teaspoon
black pepper<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
½ teaspoon
dried Basil <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
½ teaspoon
dried Oregano <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Roll 3
boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the seasoned flour mixture, coating them
well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Brown the
breaded chicken breasts in 3 Tablespoons of Olive Oil over medium heat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Cover and simmer
for 20 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
While
chicken cooks, put water on to boil to cook the pasta. I used a 14-oz. package of brown rice fettuccine noodles. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Before
adding noodles to the boiling water, put about 1 teaspoon of Olive Oil into the
water, to prevent pasta from sticking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Cook as
directed on package.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
While
chicken and pasta are cooking, thinly slice one large red pepper. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
(I cut mine
in half, removed seeds, and cut each half into thirds, then sliced those
sections into thin strips.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Remove cover
from frying pan and cook chicken a few minutes longer, allowing it to crisp up
slightly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Transfer
chicken breasts to a plate and put the red pepper strips into the pan. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Sauté red
pepper strips for about 5 minutes on medium heat until partially softened.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Add 1 large
Tablespoon minced garlic to peppers in pan and sauté lightly. (I use bottled minced garlic)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Add 1
Tablespoon all-purpose flour to the pan and stir in thoroughly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Add 1
heaping Tablespoon chicken broth paste. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Add 1 cup
milk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Cook over
medium heat until mixture thickens slightly, stirring to prevent scorching.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Stir in ½
cup whipping cream<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Add: 4 cups
fresh spinach, cleaned well<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Simmer until
spinach begins to wilt, stirring occasionally.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Stir in 1
cup grated Parmesan cheese.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Drain
noodles. Mix noodles with half the
spinach/red pepper sauce in a pasta bowl or casserole.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Slice
chicken. Serve pasta and sauce with
sliced chicken on top. Top with
remaining sauce.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Garnish with
additional basil, if desired.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To make this
entirely gluten-free, substitute rice or other non-gluten flour for the
all-purpose flour in this recipe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Serves 6 to
8, depending on the appetites of those dining!
A tossed salad with cherry tomatoes and ripe olives, and garlic
breadsticks complete the meal nicely.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">I think winter will come early this year. The fall storms seem to have moved in, and
some days it feels like fall is in the air.
My daughter laughed when I told her that, telling me that our humidity
and heat have not felt much like fall.
This is true… but there is something, perhaps in the cicada song echoing
through the dark of night, that resonates deep within me, foretelling the
cooler weather and perhaps a harsher winter on the horizon. The sounds of nature are musical... the breeze ruffling through leaves, birdsong, and even the chirping of insects. My friend, Nancy, sent a link to a recording
of crickets chirping, </span>slowed down 50
times, and they sound like an angelic choir. You can hear it here: <a href="https://soundcloud.com/acornavi/jim-wilson-crickets-audio">https://soundcloud.com/acornavi/jim-wilson-crickets-audio</a> It reminded me of when I was a little girl
on the farm in Wisconsin, not so far from the shores of Lake Superior, when I
would lie in bed at night and fall asleep to the singing of the frogs. It was, and still is, one of the most
comforting sounds to me… beautiful in its simplicity. Now, I wonder what they would sound like if
their song was recorded and slowed down to allow me to hear the soul of their
music. I wonder if the cicadas, also,
have a unique song of their own. There are so many things in this wonderful
world that I discover every day… new things, exciting things. There is poetry and music all around us… we
have only to recognize it. </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br /><o:p></o:p></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-46879569716107320582015-11-15T13:13:00.001-08:002015-11-15T13:13:22.393-08:00Many Trips Around the World<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Many Trips Around the World:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fall temperatures make it feel like soup weather! I made a pot of Beef Vegetable Barley soup
yesterday, and it was delicious! While
the soup was cooking I was working on another variation of Around the World…
Many Trips Around the World. This block
is made up of seven 2-1/2” strips, with one contrast colors going
diagonally from top to bottom. These
blocks are put together in a way that creates a diamond pattern that appears to be edged with the
contrast color, and the design that results seems to be two separate blocks but they are all formed from that one block.
I first decided which seven fabrics I wanted
in the quilt, and next sewed strip sets of the fabrics, with each of the
fabrics in the same place in the strip set. Working with two strip sets at a time, I
pressed each of them in opposite directions. I evened the ends, and sewed each strip set
into a tube, as instructed in my previous tutorial, Around the World. <a href="http://www.diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2015/11/around-world_8.html">http://www.diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2015/11/around-world_8.html</a> Then cut the tube into 2-1/2” segments. I laid the strips into two stacks, so one
stack had strips pressed in one direction, and the other stack contained strips
pressed in the opposite direction. In
this way, the intersections butted up against each other without any
pinning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzkwIKfFdkTqGtZC6nWoSxVwU2RizdOJS9TQFnRm-QdT7m2gsUQ8xB8SnBfSuGvY7-3TkzB9ikY-0ZBJ1DzqWJl2Ya8qYiVg2gh5L_OK4pywPzI1tMs6wJ1fPvyafbLPO_Pj7GgKVPKg/s1600/many+trips+one+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzkwIKfFdkTqGtZC6nWoSxVwU2RizdOJS9TQFnRm-QdT7m2gsUQ8xB8SnBfSuGvY7-3TkzB9ikY-0ZBJ1DzqWJl2Ya8qYiVg2gh5L_OK4pywPzI1tMs6wJ1fPvyafbLPO_Pj7GgKVPKg/s320/many+trips+one+block.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Open one seam, with the dark or
contrast color at the top of the row.
The next strip will be staggered one color down, so the contrast color
will be second on the row, and the color that was on the bottom of the first
strip will be at the top of the next strip.
Working from left to right and taking strip sets from alternate stacks helps
to keep the colors in the right place, plus alternating the way the seams are
pressed so there is no need to pin. I lay the seven strips out,
making sure they are in the proper place, and then join the strips, starting at
one side or the other. (See photo at right, with the strip sets laid out, and then joined into a block.) Just as when you
join strip sets, alternate the end you start sewing on so the block is straight when
you finish it. When all seven strips are
sewn together, I press all the seams in the same direction from the back, then
flip it over and press it from the front.
Lay the blocks out in a way that is pleasing to you. They can be put together in diamond sections
or joined to look like a traditional Around the World quilt. See photo below. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rPK5qxQylkiK6-a_fGbY3ixSdPEGonP6jwZpbWpDTTVgF_JBpSbZG-_mPFmFDfLepCkjYtd6hmKphUYykpyHUMVlYko8SsD8RKeW5bDph9x17QABe2WoVFgB38DzOO3IsWjiFK0CPtw/s1600/many+trips+green+gold+rust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rPK5qxQylkiK6-a_fGbY3ixSdPEGonP6jwZpbWpDTTVgF_JBpSbZG-_mPFmFDfLepCkjYtd6hmKphUYykpyHUMVlYko8SsD8RKeW5bDph9x17QABe2WoVFgB38DzOO3IsWjiFK0CPtw/s320/many+trips+green+gold+rust.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SvbM1NAn8MKcck8fU6Bs8p60rrRGJDds4s3a1B9SYZnskEjeKduA8_gb07vSx8tjj8Cl5GZKtwmP33wXHBw5d-xOm13MJS-WSLAm6dNtt1bz6WkMXeNyiaK_GG_0ZDi32cIP3C2DwFc/s1600/many+trips+gray3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SvbM1NAn8MKcck8fU6Bs8p60rrRGJDds4s3a1B9SYZnskEjeKduA8_gb07vSx8tjj8Cl5GZKtwmP33wXHBw5d-xOm13MJS-WSLAm6dNtt1bz6WkMXeNyiaK_GG_0ZDi32cIP3C2DwFc/s320/many+trips+gray3.jpg" width="320" /></a>My oldest daughter has a super king-sized bed, and I've made up a few samples for her approval for a quilt for her bedroom. The furniture has dark marble tops, and there is one burgundy wall. The samples I made so far were not successful. She doesn't want much white in the quilt, and using just grays and burgundies looked dull and boring. I finally tried adding a tan background print with apples on it, so the dark red apples blended with the burgundies, and the warm tan and green of the leaves added some more interest. When she was here last week, she approved the design and colors... she liked it a lot! It had some black and light gray strips with silver (Stonehenge Winter fabrics), some Jinny Beyer tone-on-tone melon rose and burgundy, and a few burgundy prints, one is a Haversham fabric I've had for a long time, along with the apple print. (See photo at right.) Since it will be so large, I think I will quilt it in sections of four, which will be about 28" square, finished, in a Quilt As You Go method. The photo at right shows 12 blocks finished. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bonnie Hunter has a free pattern on her blog
for a scrappy version of Around the World, using six strips of various colors
without any specific pattern. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2005/06/scrappy-trips-around-world.html">http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2005/06/scrappy-trips-around-world.html</a> Here is my version of the Scrappy Trips, in a
blue colorway. I will make this in a queen size.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rUHanLkSEu-neHWgWFG1chxlLblqGfqkr6gEMjFEqm1XLti8T4SUv55qCEHbBw_sm11Vp0v2szZy220j__Yjpz4nGZN529E0McJakYDYUHR8UHnhMrltgxhfLFmuBd1pG7ogUUR75_I/s1600/scrappy+blue+ATW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rUHanLkSEu-neHWgWFG1chxlLblqGfqkr6gEMjFEqm1XLti8T4SUv55qCEHbBw_sm11Vp0v2szZy220j__Yjpz4nGZN529E0McJakYDYUHR8UHnhMrltgxhfLFmuBd1pG7ogUUR75_I/s400/scrappy+blue+ATW.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of Around the World quilts, one of my local quilting friends and I are planning to take a short trip in a couple of weeks, to meet one of our online quilting friends, who is visiting the United States from another country. She will be only around three hours away from us, so we are excited to be able to go and meet her for lunch and possibly take her to visit some Indiana quilt shops so she can check out some American fabrics. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’re in the mood for soup, here are two recipes I made
in my electric pressure cooker… they could easily be made on top of the stove,
as well, but would just need to be cooked longer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Beef Vegetable Barley
Soup:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Season and brown 1 pound of stewing beef in a very small
amount of olive oil. My pressure cooker
has a browning function, so I used that.
I seasoned the beef with Montreal Steak Seasoning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add: 1 small chopped onion and a quart of water, with 2
Tablespoons of beef soup base stirred in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cover and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Release steam and add:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables, 10 oz.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tablespoon minced garlic<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 can diced tomatoes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5 cups water<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 cup pearl barley (mine was quick-cooking)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cover and cook on high pressure for 18 minutes. Release pressure. Season, if necessary. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Pressure Potted Fall
Vegetables & Beef Stew:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1# cubed round steak, lightly floured and browned in about 1
Tablespoon Olive oil <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(more
if you want a meatier stew)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Place in pressure cooker.
Add 1-1/2 cups water and cook on high for 45 minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While meat is cooking, prepare the other vegetables:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 cups peeled and diced rutabaga<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 cups thickly sliced baby carrots<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 medium diced potatoes (if using new potatoes, scrub and do
not peel before dicing)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 cups shredded bagged coleslaw vegetables (cabbage with a
bit of shredded carrots)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 medium onion, diced<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tablespoon minced garlic<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 – 28 oz. can Ro-Tel Tomatoes with green chili (this makes
a VERY spicy hot soup… may substitute regular diced tomatoes, if you don’t like it “hot”!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add the vegetables to the meat in the pressure cooker. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 3 cups water, or amount wanted to obtain the amount of
broth you desire.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 Tablespoon Mrs. Dash’s seasoning<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 Tablespoon beef soup base to enhance the flavor (no
need to add additional spices; if it is not seasoned well enough, you can add
seasoning when you eat it.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Options: Can add
fresh chopped spinach, frozen corn or canned black beans after cooking, heating
until everything is hot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you want to make this vegetarian, just cook the vegetables
with the water, adding some meatless soup base, optional. Cook about 30 minutes, and add one can of
black beans, one can of white beans, and one can of kidney beans to the
vegetables to add protein. May also add
some textured soy protein, mixed with water to soften, if desired, which
simulates ground meat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Enjoy this lovely fall weather before the cold of winter
sets in. I wish you all a happy
Thanksgiving season! <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-36484456308372129672015-11-08T23:47:00.000-08:002015-11-08T23:47:30.657-08:00Cold Remedies <div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiirIUZeLO7md_nXCyzKPfe9Ykcl6Yohit4orekSXMlxJs2p-DhyrlSh8ShtiMZIetsL88tNl_v5VRiRuSC_cD21U0MD2-2GcSFZE97_Uy_WxfG3vMye-jLGJQ6RifBekSD0P6t_228jDQ/s1600/japanese+maple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiirIUZeLO7md_nXCyzKPfe9Ykcl6Yohit4orekSXMlxJs2p-DhyrlSh8ShtiMZIetsL88tNl_v5VRiRuSC_cD21U0MD2-2GcSFZE97_Uy_WxfG3vMye-jLGJQ6RifBekSD0P6t_228jDQ/s320/japanese+maple.jpg" width="320" /></a>There are still a few straggling gold leaves on the bushes beyond my deck, but the trees are looking barren. It seemed as if one day there were leaves, and a few days later they were bare. The cast-off colors of gold and brown drifted to the ground prolifically, almost like falling snow, and the green grass is carpeted with brown. Michelle took some photos of the beautiful Japanese Maple at the front of my house last week. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQo5TgYglWpUE4kgd_QRfX-eK2sYsI62wgnho4a-K0_FlwRYPXzCDotG4casvjPbjnYkc2eU6Og-xpriVul2evjxYL9BBl638y7nUp3rhZezLrNHJzvSrQbntXV4dAykJb9n27ng-AabI/s1600/closeup+of+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQo5TgYglWpUE4kgd_QRfX-eK2sYsI62wgnho4a-K0_FlwRYPXzCDotG4casvjPbjnYkc2eU6Og-xpriVul2evjxYL9BBl638y7nUp3rhZezLrNHJzvSrQbntXV4dAykJb9n27ng-AabI/s200/closeup+of+leaves.jpg" width="200" /></a>The night temperatures fall down into the 40s, and daytime temps seldom get higher than the 60's. Daylight Savings Time has switched so that our days seem much shorter, and they will continue to dwindle for another month and a half before they begin to lengthen again. I do not like winter much, but it does give me a reason to appreciate my quilts... and use them regularly. <br />
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This is the time when the cold and flu bugs are running
rampant, the time to back up our defenses with herbal remedies. I've been making a wonderful natural chest
rub for the grandchildren for many years, that I call Eucalyptus
Chest Rub. It's great for breaking up
congestion with essential oils in a light, natural base; it takes the place of
commercial rubs that are petroleum-based.
Also, we have a cold and sinus tea blend that we use, that is potent
enough to knock that cold or flu virus for a loop, if you take it at the first
signs of a sore and scratchy throat.
That, along with tinctures of Echinacea and Astragalus whenever we are
exposed to those winter bugs, help us to ward off any viruses traveling around. Astragalus is reputed to be even
more effective as an immune system enhancer than Echinacea, by some
herbalists. Echinacea is more effective if it is taken in
a cycle, with a period of "rest" off the herb, rather than taking it continually. Here are the recipes for the chest rub and
cold/flu relief tea:</div>
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<b>Eucalyptus Chest Rub:</b></div>
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2 cups Olive Oil</div>
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1-1/2 ounce Beeswax</div>
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1 Tablespoon Eucalyptus Essential Oil</div>
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1 teaspoon Camphor Essential Oil</div>
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1 teaspoon Wintergreen Essential Oil</div>
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1 teaspoon Peppermint Essential Oil</div>
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1 teaspoon Vitamin E Oil</div>
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Melt the beeswax in the olive oil. Remove from heat, cool slightly, and add the
essential oils and Vitamin E oil. Stir
well and pour into salve containers. When the salve has cooled and become firm, cover and label. Relieves respiratory
congestion. Safer for children than
petroleum products. Note: If you wish, you can make this with Lard as part of the oil, and/or add Emu oil, which has been proven to be able to travel to the deeper levels of the skin. Lard has healing properties of its own, but some prefer not to use animal products. Also, animal products can become rancid much more quickly than Olive Oil, so if it is not going to be used in a reasonable span of time, Olive Oil is a better choice.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Cold, Flu and Sinus Relief Tea:</b></div>
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2 Tablespoons Elder Berries, ground</div>
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1/2 cup Elder Flowers</div>
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1-1/2 cups Coltsfoot Leaf</div>
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1/2 cup Elecampane Root, ground</div>
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1-1/2 cups Dandelion Leaf</div>
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1/2 cup Dandelion Root</div>
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This tea is not good tasting (my children nick-named it Putrid Tea),
but honey can be added to make it more palatable. It does work, so if you can manage to
disregard the taste... it will sure make you feel better! It takes some people some time to adapt to liking the taste of herbs. I put a spoonful of tea in a coffee filter, and make my own teabag. I flatten the filter, bring two edges together and fold them down several times, then bend it in half so both ends meet and fold that down, then staple the top. Steep it in boiling hot water for several minutes... you will smell the potent herbal aroma. Drink a cup of the tea every few hours. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y37dN5b5f0MS4WJWdw3LLBU3iNsInhZiHBHWwLCqbUrKlRCZdXyJBHMBNGeR8EnoLFG-X_gYxi8EJr2PTxz1RsBfUPfW6X-vKq48OULfU6kQxel9LTuz6RHTNb-a9D0OYJ6jiv2yqiI/s1600/kitty+found+a+napping+spot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y37dN5b5f0MS4WJWdw3LLBU3iNsInhZiHBHWwLCqbUrKlRCZdXyJBHMBNGeR8EnoLFG-X_gYxi8EJr2PTxz1RsBfUPfW6X-vKq48OULfU6kQxel9LTuz6RHTNb-a9D0OYJ6jiv2yqiI/s320/kitty+found+a+napping+spot.jpg" width="246" /></a>Another natural remedy that is available to everyone is Garlic. I use fresh minced Garlic on my salads
daily, as well as including it in many other foods. Garlic
supplements are available over-the-counter, if you prefer to take it in that
form. My younger sister told me
once that people had been mentioning to her that she smells like
Garlic, and offering her breath mints!
She looked at the bottle of Garlic supplements that she was taking, and
it was not odor-free, as she had thought.
So be aware that is available in odorless or regular form.</div>
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Even though there is a chill in the air these days, I have had a frequent visitor on my deck. The first time I saw him, he sat on the table and stared at me through the window for a long time, and when I went on with my sewing, he curled up on the back of one of the new chair cushions for an extended nap. He has come back several times... the cushions must be comfortable, and even though the deck is on the east side of my house, that area is usually sunny throughout the day. My deck seems to be a sanctuary for squirrels and cats! A few weeks ago, I saw three quite large deer amble through the yard and wander off into the woods at a leisurely pace. I tried to get a photo of them, but was afraid if I opened the door they would get spooked and run. The pictures through the window were blurry. It never ceases to amaze me that here in the suburbs of a big city, in an area that is well populated, there is so much wildlife! We are crowding these animals out of their habitat, I fear.</div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Stay warm... and stay well! Wash your hands frequently, as most germs are
easily spread by contact on our hands.
Get plenty of rest, so your body can fight off those nasty bugs! And be sure to stock up on fresh garlic... it will not only help you stay well, but it will ward off the Walking Dead! If you eat enough of it, it might ward off the living, as well.</span>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]-->Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-64277941317016278142015-11-08T15:24:00.000-08:002015-11-08T15:24:04.406-08:00Around The World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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Around the World Quilt:<o:p></o:p></div>
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It's a big help in having
your intersections meet where they are supposed to if you have a true 1/4" seam. You can check your ¼” seam by sewing three
2-1/2” strips that are about 6” long together.
Press all seams to one side.
Measure the CENTER strip… it should measure exactly 2” wide. If it does not, adjust your needle and try
again. Bonnie Hunter has an excellent
blog on how she makes a true ¼” seam. <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2005/06/that-quarter-inch.html">http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2005/06/that-quarter-inch.html</a></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jelly rolls are perfect for this pattern, or you can cut
your own 2-1/2” strips, cut the width of fabric. I use my June Tailor Shape Cutter ruler to
cut multiple strips at a time, without having to re-position the fabric. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptcG7OY4DDFauIJYZ6Uboc4kfwjMpaYk8uutbmmVA2l9S2IPtY3aDtCfrn6qUex6kZfegk67ng6KDePu9-KNVPIWKpzT_o_cHxF0rkoGODc6JOrtmvujEue7cDeUvK3dHjXlxyDevGyg/s1600/strip+set+of+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptcG7OY4DDFauIJYZ6Uboc4kfwjMpaYk8uutbmmVA2l9S2IPtY3aDtCfrn6qUex6kZfegk67ng6KDePu9-KNVPIWKpzT_o_cHxF0rkoGODc6JOrtmvujEue7cDeUvK3dHjXlxyDevGyg/s320/strip+set+of+13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lay the strips out in a way that is pleasing to you. It works well to place colors so that they
blend from light to dark and vice versa.
It is best to have some colorful fabrics in the strip sets to add a
“zip” factor! Remember that the colors
will be repeated in all the “rounds” of the design, so the fabrics at both ends
of the strip sets will be next to each other in the finished quilt. This green/blue quilt used four strip sets of 13 fabrics each, shown at right. Borders can be added to make it as large as you wish… or you can make more strip sets and make it larger. </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have my strips laid out on the ironing board, which is set
at a right angle to my sewing table, so it’s really easy to just pick up the
next strip when sewing them together. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Join the strips together, alternating the end where you
begin stitching, to avoid the strip set from being skewed. In other words, where you end the stitching
of two pieces, you will begin at that end to stitch the next strip on. When you have stitched that seam, where you
end will be where you begin stitching the next strip. Be careful not to stretch the fabrics as you
join the strips, just letting them feed naturally through the machine. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydFyKsYatbRz1a6SBu0X6CFwHdHXVYuNe2cN8kom4mZZCoaI5ZlaZToKbmgWcOLNkGzs5b2iQLc7wZQGWToMPu3vMK1MzBNDJhTfgpHxdMURjt5WXeHZxQuhp8WcE78Lx278oqQw4zLw/s1600/ATW+straighten+strips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydFyKsYatbRz1a6SBu0X6CFwHdHXVYuNe2cN8kom4mZZCoaI5ZlaZToKbmgWcOLNkGzs5b2iQLc7wZQGWToMPu3vMK1MzBNDJhTfgpHxdMURjt5WXeHZxQuhp8WcE78Lx278oqQw4zLw/s320/ATW+straighten+strips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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When you have joined all the strips, you will have completed
a “strip set”. If you are a pedal-to-the-metal person (as I am), you can
stitch the strip sets pretty quickly. Press all seams going in the same direction on the backside, but press each
strip set in opposite directions, so one strip set is pressed toward the end
color and the other strip set is pressed away from that end color. This will facilitate joining the rows. Place the strip set on your cutting mat,
lining it up straight with the markings on your mat, as shown on the left. Cut each end of the strip set off at the
place where the end of the strip is the shortest. Join the two long edges, right sides
together. This is one of the most
difficult parts of sewing this pattern. You
may find it easier to pin the long edge at intervals, to make sure it stays
even. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3FeBqxWiVwaeYdSs-9Bad2bp2RvJ1bMHJ8NiuMwdKFH1AEPQse7GdN9EVkNsc21BeeGQB8r9uaXHjykFwLPpLlBmpkGtWrK_gZAKvP7TmGpd9yDvEUlfjWtdQwrjQxaa4v82-wldJWo/s1600/strip+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3FeBqxWiVwaeYdSs-9Bad2bp2RvJ1bMHJ8NiuMwdKFH1AEPQse7GdN9EVkNsc21BeeGQB8r9uaXHjykFwLPpLlBmpkGtWrK_gZAKvP7TmGpd9yDvEUlfjWtdQwrjQxaa4v82-wldJWo/s320/strip+set.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Some machines feed differently on
the top and bottom fabrics, so pinning helps to keep them straight. If one fabric seems to be a little longer
than the other, place that fabric on the bottom, and gently stretch as you sew
this seam.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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You now have a tube that is trimmed on each end, as shown on the right. Cut this tube into 2-1/2” strips. I was able to get 16 segments from my tube. Lay the strips from each strip set together, so you have two
separate piles of strips, each pressed in a different direction.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SLwvOZ0Zorg3Sk7395bEmPab_62RTGEDRglU3Hukxg_WVcwNNAlKMEyxZ0-G4kJWLutLEolm75Ov4VW-Azki56JtA11J8NY7O-whvqhhyphenhyphendKFCQhIQ4KApZs6M1-uItUZSLcVggzCGLA/s1600/ATW+strip+placement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SLwvOZ0Zorg3Sk7395bEmPab_62RTGEDRglU3Hukxg_WVcwNNAlKMEyxZ0-G4kJWLutLEolm75Ov4VW-Azki56JtA11J8NY7O-whvqhhyphenhyphendKFCQhIQ4KApZs6M1-uItUZSLcVggzCGLA/s320/ATW+strip+placement.jpg" width="320" /></a>Decide which direction you want your strips to go, and open
ONE seam where you want the quilt pattern to start. It helps if you have a<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-size: 11pt;">design wall (I use a cheap flannel-backed vinyl tablecloth hung in front of my fireplace for my design wall).</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Alternately, you can lay the strips out on a table or the floor.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You will need to add one 2-1/2” square to the</span></span> <b><u>top</u></b> of your first strip, and remove the bottom 2-1/2” square from this strip <b>ONLY</b>. I usually add a darker or lighter square in this place that will become the center of the quilt, so that the contrast is more obvious and sets the tone for the rest of the strips. You might have a piece big enough and in a color you want from trimming the strip ends, or you can use the last square in your strip as your center, removing it from the bottom and re-sewing it to the top of the </div>
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strip… it’s your choice. <br />
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Continue adding strips to each side of this first strip,
staggering the colors for each strip you add, so that the pattern emerges. With each strip, you will open only one seam
of the tube. I find it easiest to just
fold the tube where I need to rip the seam and lay it against the other strips
to make sure I am at the right square. Take
strips from alternating piles so that the seams are pressed in opposite directions, which helps</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
the seams “nest” against each other while sewing them. Tip: I sew with the raw pressed seam FACING
the needle whenever possible, as it helps to nest the seams and match them. I don’t worry if my seams don’t match
perfectly, as when the top is quilted, it is not so obvious. The “pouf” of the batting makes up for the
error! It isn’t necessary to press each
seam as you sew the strips together, but you can if you wish. I wait until the section is sewn and then
press the whole thing… pressing the seams in one direction on the back, and
then pressing from the front side. My
steam iron is my best friend, when I’m piecing a quilt… but don’t tell my
sewing machine. The photo at the right shows the first half of the quilt finished.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Q3orMFi2zyw_ezmMyWSuK7tXRUStN-cm8qu-GVNl8ujvQ8wKkPTJtCCMKZTRrx5VjW650EYNUzEUe0nw3RpT-n1jWHKmRYmDBoRhapXltnn8U0wMUKSlvcmGGI4qiQqOCQjTiXZ-Tx0/s1600/around+the+world+blue+green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Q3orMFi2zyw_ezmMyWSuK7tXRUStN-cm8qu-GVNl8ujvQ8wKkPTJtCCMKZTRrx5VjW650EYNUzEUe0nw3RpT-n1jWHKmRYmDBoRhapXltnn8U0wMUKSlvcmGGI4qiQqOCQjTiXZ-Tx0/s320/around+the+world+blue+green.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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Tip: Quilting should
be FUN! Remember that there are no quilt
police in your home, and unless the errors are glaringly obvious, close is
usually good enough, and your seam ripper can take a vacation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Work out from the center strip, adding strips to just one
side at a time, if you wish, sewing the strips into quarters, then sew the
quarters into halves, and finally sew the two halves together. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The photo at the left shows the bottom half of the quilt beginning to come together. Notice how the pattern is reversed from the top half.<br />
Tip: Remember, you do not add a square to the
center strip on the last half of the quilt.
You build out from the center square that is on the first half,
reversing the order of the strips. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once you get the hang of it, Around the World quilts are
very simple to make and I think each one is exciting to see as it evolves into
the pattern. And for the record, I did
not use one pin when sewing the strips together. I do, however, pin the two halves before
sewing them together. My seams do not
all meet perfectly, but the quilter’s credo is:
If they are riding by at 30 miles an hour, no one will notice! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4L2GLBmJ9fWgM_bgSs-MGFCN4yxvquSf_Ch8XwcyhvQnKxg-shfu9osl2oHuay5zm0yvTcMY0t-LkyT_LdZXlHYjuvfcMBdp9JEwycWPT_9RwHCYqId73i2mBGeVV1vqLHMbuxsIIv0/s1600/AWT+Blue+Pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4L2GLBmJ9fWgM_bgSs-MGFCN4yxvquSf_Ch8XwcyhvQnKxg-shfu9osl2oHuay5zm0yvTcMY0t-LkyT_LdZXlHYjuvfcMBdp9JEwycWPT_9RwHCYqId73i2mBGeVV1vqLHMbuxsIIv0/s200/AWT+Blue+Pink.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidApxYmAC8sANCmDG8_rCVk9ms4MmP7AM3EbyeKSh55G9XoVjb6haZPV0uqu8HuuRdFSM0ujrnn1pA9oIGK5HmDWN5obUahLEUn3uOfLFTL4THwk01neUFym2Xv8_y28WWtr_YuuLuO8/s1600/ATWpurple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidApxYmAC8sANCmDG8_rCVk9ms4MmP7AM3EbyeKSh55G9XoVjb6haZPV0uqu8HuuRdFSM0ujrnn1pA9oIGK5HmDWN5obUahLEUn3uOfLFTL4THwk01neUFym2Xv8_y28WWtr_YuuLuO8/s200/ATWpurple.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
You can plan the size of your quilt easily… the squares
result in 2” after they are sewn, so the size depends on how many strips you
sew together into sets. For these baby
quilts, I used two each of 9 different fabrics. I will border them with a coordinating color strip, with binding to either match or blend. I cut the strips for the pink and blue baby quilt at night, and my vision is not always very accurate! My night vision is even less accurate... I cut one of the strips the wrong size, which means I had two strips that were odd... so I could not use them in the quilt. The quilt was off-balance, and I had a choice of either making another strip set or removing one of the strips from the top of the quilt. I chose to do that, so the quilt is a bit smaller.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMzBCjd6z-HWgyPVRpqrwnqOW1__Arx9272xpU3vHuY3uUpvThvILwpnj9AC_SCexd63IzxBiTtmAgEdA_X0d_KGFjpdnsIALKdGipirZJBSwuW4WXbmLH4gVXIARVnzhXwW2dD9LN58/s1600/around%252Bthe%252Bworld%252Borange%252Bbaby2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMzBCjd6z-HWgyPVRpqrwnqOW1__Arx9272xpU3vHuY3uUpvThvILwpnj9AC_SCexd63IzxBiTtmAgEdA_X0d_KGFjpdnsIALKdGipirZJBSwuW4WXbmLH4gVXIARVnzhXwW2dD9LN58/s200/around%252Bthe%252Bworld%252Borange%252Bbaby2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The yellow and orange quilt on the right is another baby quilt that was made for the man who takes care of my lawn, when their last baby arrived.<br />
<br />
Whenever I make an Around the World quilt, I am reminded of all the online friends around the world that I've made through my love of quilting. The ease of internet communication certainly has created the illusion of a much smaller world. <br />
<br />
The two quilts shown below are both large snuggler quilts, almost twin sized. The one on the left belongs to my middle son, and the purple one is not yet quilted. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4zVK_kR61-BBMp6NivKIvYgDRnitIEc8ocMF9P5k9k_SkV_iu-wMjPlxyAqoY6pbzV_5acxRcLh_whWdOTy4auW2BNBaPkGHLDurJdJfgjzV3zqeb93o9FCUI2RuFgpnKaHnGWlCl7M/s1600/Around%252Bthe%252Bworld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4zVK_kR61-BBMp6NivKIvYgDRnitIEc8ocMF9P5k9k_SkV_iu-wMjPlxyAqoY6pbzV_5acxRcLh_whWdOTy4auW2BNBaPkGHLDurJdJfgjzV3zqeb93o9FCUI2RuFgpnKaHnGWlCl7M/s200/Around%252Bthe%252Bworld.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZIDAOEGsc8OSzTjHBbwC6pL-PNp47rI6cGxiS2Hqf3CA-W-7MlMO0Ngd4lVuX2Ik38RputS0kWU2bzIZ7s28kdIZkNAvOvOqyHhM52kPX2-vWAz2W0egP1IYiVXnfzjpaSpdnAaIXsw/s1600/around+the+world+purple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbZIDAOEGsc8OSzTjHBbwC6pL-PNp47rI6cGxiS2Hqf3CA-W-7MlMO0Ngd4lVuX2Ik38RputS0kWU2bzIZ7s28kdIZkNAvOvOqyHhM52kPX2-vWAz2W0egP1IYiVXnfzjpaSpdnAaIXsw/s200/around+the+world+purple.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
The last quilt photo, shown below, is one that uses the Around the World square as a medallion center, and was a gift to a friend. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnDlUBsz5Mj_8QWGofWxDcI1X1TDvXZfWc3DMCAfBmv0SVgiN5CV_hvGD77akNDc3hrqBcxfYLEnqD37sRPisr-Y9olXBlt-oapH_NnkVNogiZM_6bta9O9VUDaRgoTZHaTVZQz-2BgY/s1600/Kathy%252Bquilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnDlUBsz5Mj_8QWGofWxDcI1X1TDvXZfWc3DMCAfBmv0SVgiN5CV_hvGD77akNDc3hrqBcxfYLEnqD37sRPisr-Y9olXBlt-oapH_NnkVNogiZM_6bta9O9VUDaRgoTZHaTVZQz-2BgY/s320/Kathy%252Bquilt.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I hope this tutorial and the photos inspire you to enjoy sewing an Around the World quilt of your own... they literally can be done very quickly, using strip piecing with rotary cutting tools.<br />
<br />
I will post another tutorial soon with variations of this pattern.<br />
<br />
The fall leaves are dropping fast, and soon the trees will be bare. There is a chill in the air these days, and the daylight hours are shorter. But we, who spend much of our lives at our sewing machines, just use this as an opportunity to make more quilts. I think of my quilts as a way to remind my family and friends how much I love them, and that reminder will be there long after I am gone... wrapping them in warm hugs.<br />
Happy quilting!Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-79062929972144501522015-10-13T11:17:00.000-07:002015-10-13T11:17:32.270-07:00Kindle Tote<div class="MsoNormal">
The Minnesota grand-kids came to visit this summer and stayed
nearly a month. I know Grandma’s house
can be boring for kids used to having all of their own toys and electronics…
and friends nearby… so I got permission from my son to order a Kindle Fire for
each of them as a surprise<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPy0W8f7f_3T5EFQOV99tnUnoIyyQbOCO9Lp_1kmhUzYCgeW1SripQ74v4xbtGGQxTP3qJ71U3-9fG1wfvE9YspFnZf0WaVrZ4jNMzmtclcQmtEsaN89joI-a72goIq1KjxQz1YL-Q1s/s1600/new+kindles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPy0W8f7f_3T5EFQOV99tnUnoIyyQbOCO9Lp_1kmhUzYCgeW1SripQ74v4xbtGGQxTP3qJ71U3-9fG1wfvE9YspFnZf0WaVrZ4jNMzmtclcQmtEsaN89joI-a72goIq1KjxQz1YL-Q1s/s320/new+kindles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
summer gift. Their visit coincided with Amazon’s
Prime anniversary special, so they were bought at a huge markdown. These
children do not have their own computers, so this was (as Quentin said) the
best gift anyone could ever imagine!
Charlotte jumped up and down and proclaimed it was the best day of her
life! I sat them down and told them how
breakable they are, and they were NEVER to leave them on the floor, where
someone could accidentally step on it, or on a chair, where someone might
accidentally sit on it. We designated a
place for them to plug them in for charging.
I repeated the rules… more than once... many times more, in fact! And they were pretty good about following instructions, and were
excellent monitors for reminding each other, as well.
Before he went back to Minnesota, my son helped them download a variety
of games and books, and initiated the parental controls, so I wouldn’t have to
worry about them going on the internet or doing things that were outside their
dad’s boundaries. There was peace in the
house… no fighting over computer time, and they enjoyed their reading time
every afternoon… or I thought they were enjoying it, until I realized they were
playing games instead of reading! So we
had a no electronic rule during the two hours quiet time, and the books with
actual pages were brought out. I have a
collection of Thornton Burgess’ Mother West Wind books (among others) that my mother
used to read to me when I was a child, and my grandchildren also enjoy these
simple stories, knowing that they were part of my childhood. There is also a library only about a mile
away, so we can easily go to check out more books, when the children want something
new.</div>
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I told them we would make totes for the Kindles, so anytime
they took their Kindle out of the house, it would be protected. And they were delighted to help sew their own
totes. <o:p></o:p><br />
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kindle tote:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This tote can be made from two coordinating fat
quarters. The grandchildren picked their own favorite colors and fabrics for their totes. The dimensions given here are
for a Kindle Fire HD 6”. If your Kindle
is larger, you may need to add to the cut sizes shown here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Cut 2 pieces for the front and lining, each 9” x 18”.<o:p></o:p><br />
Cut one piece of thick batting for the interlining the same
size.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
For inner pocket (for charging cord and/or other accessories): <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut one piece of lining 8” x 10”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Right sides together, fold lining in half to make a piece 5”
x 8”.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew around 3 raw edges, leaving a space to turn right side
out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyesoMlvv94mDO4p9L0sMZm6xl6n5FHl3SNJHMskuLmp9Ldrmnmh9bArFBotg4-tlYLsuosOhcCFuLtJgYfQzbg3dghNi72m2XNLILjUyYBY3cYkIq5fo3zHzjNozwhOOdmIUvRB-iFgg/s1600/inner+pocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyesoMlvv94mDO4p9L0sMZm6xl6n5FHl3SNJHMskuLmp9Ldrmnmh9bArFBotg4-tlYLsuosOhcCFuLtJgYfQzbg3dghNi72m2XNLILjUyYBY3cYkIq5fo3zHzjNozwhOOdmIUvRB-iFgg/s320/inner+pocket.jpg" width="320" /></a>Clip corners next to stitching to reduce the bulk and turn
right side out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Turn raw edges under to the inside, about ¼” to ½”. Press in place.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Top-stitch opening closed, close to the edge. Stitch down each side and across the bottom of the pocket. I also made a smaller pocket to hold a credit card or business cards in the same way. (Photo shown at right.) Center it on your larger pocket and stitch around the sides and bottom. You can position it so that the small pocket is on the backside or front of the larger pocket, but make sure the open top is facing up, toward the fold-down flap. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqxb3OeiWXcm3uWj0uompeACM5E93eiw90rcoTEClTv5onsWvzr-I7obijY6PXqkRpJDHmVsvc_slqldFZ41kFz6ejsZVFDcVLEEIUecOO1AOAJduHEhRuyK9D4FZhIXaIZ2s41CE2O0/s1600/outer+pocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqxb3OeiWXcm3uWj0uompeACM5E93eiw90rcoTEClTv5onsWvzr-I7obijY6PXqkRpJDHmVsvc_slqldFZ41kFz6ejsZVFDcVLEEIUecOO1AOAJduHEhRuyK9D4FZhIXaIZ2s41CE2O0/s320/outer+pocket.jpg" width="320" /></a>I made a larger pocket in the same way for the OUTSIDE of
the main fabric, placing it about an inch or two down from the front, so that the top of this pocket will
go under the flap. It can be the same as
your outer fabric or in a contrasting fabric, if you prefer. This pocket can hold a cell phone for easy access, and was
an addition my oldest daughter suggested when she saw the first prototype. Photo of outer pocket at right.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Place inside pocket on lining, as follows:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fold lining, leaving 2-1/2” at the top for the flap to fold down over the tote, as in an envelope.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
Pin inside pocket to the right side of the lining, one inch from the bottom fold on the LONG side of the lining. Pin the outside pocket to the outside fabric of the tote. Photo shown below with the pockets pinned in place, ready to sew.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdKJP-7vZTQ-rwcLIzlfSEmcKaRwb1Fqrptc4OEaI6Bey2Y-tzwKgrumxXtOs2T1ZmZBhqcSI4sUwsmCJW0gFYcn7hl1kVI8KiBwpTP7guQZvzYukV_bt1TtMSITwpVc1EoigJ0-dxds/s1600/pockets+ready+to+sew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdKJP-7vZTQ-rwcLIzlfSEmcKaRwb1Fqrptc4OEaI6Bey2Y-tzwKgrumxXtOs2T1ZmZBhqcSI4sUwsmCJW0gFYcn7hl1kVI8KiBwpTP7guQZvzYukV_bt1TtMSITwpVc1EoigJ0-dxds/s320/pockets+ready+to+sew.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Put the main fabric and lining, right sides <o:p></o:p><br />
together. Place batting behind the two pieces. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be sure to position your outer fabric and lining so that the
openings in the pockets will be right side up!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This means, the inside lining pocket will be open toward the
envelope flap, and the outer pocket will be open near the edge of the tote when
it is folded up to stitch the sides in place.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Insert an elastic hair band OR a piece of elastic cord
between the front and lining at the 4” spot on the top side where the flap will
be turned down. If you use a hair band,
take care to position it so that the metal piece that joins the elastic is not
in the seam line, or you could break the sewing machine needle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pin the three layers together and stitch around all four
sides, leaving an opening on the SHORT side where the outside pocket is, to
turn the Kindle pouch right side out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Turn right side out.
Press well. Turn the opening to
the inside and top-stitch close to the edge.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This will be on the opposite side of the elastic band, and
will be the top front of the bag when finished, so it should look neat.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fold up with front side out, about 2-1/2” from the end of
flap. Stitch up both sides, reinforcing
the top edges where the tote will get more stress. I top-stitched up and around the top of the
flap, also, to give a neat finish to the tote.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUtho6ZaqnBd2ix67lndUb5hyce-PfeQ8lUN0bujqBgG8V4KcYRWV7p1179uituUmA2qnkXNQvxob-ruV7YtJYq9lqcuOGf5AdYyRv0vxgE962s27cSJbphrMe6nmX1Oxn8eQoMWOrNg/s1600/finished+tote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUtho6ZaqnBd2ix67lndUb5hyce-PfeQ8lUN0bujqBgG8V4KcYRWV7p1179uituUmA2qnkXNQvxob-ruV7YtJYq9lqcuOGf5AdYyRv0vxgE962s27cSJbphrMe6nmX1Oxn8eQoMWOrNg/s320/finished+tote.jpg" width="320" /></a>Fold flap down and mark where the bottom of the elastic is
on the front pocket. Attach a button to the center front of the pocket where you have marked, for the elastic loop to
go around for closure, taking care not to sew through the front of the
bag. Alternately, you can use a strip of
Velcro tape for closure and omit the elastic band and button. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is room inside the tote for both charge cords, for
your cell phone and Kindle. <o:p></o:p><br />
A finished Kindle Tote is shown on the right. <br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the children’s totes, we cut two strips 2-1/2” by 18”. Fold the strip in half to establish a fold,
and fold each raw edge in to meet at the center fold. Fold in half again, right side out, press,
and top-stitch along each edge of the strap, about ¼” from the edge. Fold under one end to enclose the raw edge and top-stitch it to the back of the
flap, right where it is turned down over the front, one strap on each side of
the tote. We tied the remaining two raw
ends into a knot to give the length we needed for each of the children, so it
can be put around their head and keep the electronics safe from falling and
shattering. It also gives them a good way to keep their cords organized!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My youngest daughter brought over some neon Velcro closures
in various colors for the children to choose which one they wanted, and showed
them how to wrap their cords into a circle (not a figure 8, which could damage
the wires in the cord), and close them with the Velcro. <o:p></o:p><br />
The photos below show each of the children sewing their totes. I love the expression of determination on Quentin's face as he sewed!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pdzKPFdqVmrPBhVxP0mEepaFSWFTToYWbR7A1AUGlYh_8w_jlifYLWhFayAwpAAzLAj3mfmWREdtPeh3lzXvQ52Wm_2D_9Jy1M3RqNqyUcJvweLINJp9jXbFzZAr2kbjtrdni5Q2r-o/s1600/Ava+sewing+tote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pdzKPFdqVmrPBhVxP0mEepaFSWFTToYWbR7A1AUGlYh_8w_jlifYLWhFayAwpAAzLAj3mfmWREdtPeh3lzXvQ52Wm_2D_9Jy1M3RqNqyUcJvweLINJp9jXbFzZAr2kbjtrdni5Q2r-o/s200/Ava+sewing+tote.jpg" width="183" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZ9kroSUCgJNKGnSLfsnfVlv8G8zCuW4O9e6T_Pw0OuAauLMgMyqQ0A0coKUCrR0WN9ztsFChN1Wm3oJMGuBEHhE9u754HUbrwLIT277_zJVhiwK8yFOYyp7h-IW-Y9f-og_xvwlwlCs/s1600/Charlotte+sewing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZ9kroSUCgJNKGnSLfsnfVlv8G8zCuW4O9e6T_Pw0OuAauLMgMyqQ0A0coKUCrR0WN9ztsFChN1Wm3oJMGuBEHhE9u754HUbrwLIT277_zJVhiwK8yFOYyp7h-IW-Y9f-og_xvwlwlCs/s200/Charlotte+sewing.jpg" width="175" /></a></div>
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The photos below show each of the children with their finished totes. Ava's was taken at 6:30 in the morning, fresh out of the shower, when she was about to leave for her flight home. She was going on a mission trip with her church group, so had to leave early.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBIyXNUpJq2zwhoJPpcteH8oy0A0Z7I2ldngNQdjI2NoDk7uS8OAjkJdOGCpLXKVz7zmNvIzeqWVDteJKna_aa-t_pJ9nUuNspnyHgeEAJCGDoYdje2lhtMfgnC-5qQ2QjRm4HGxkr80/s1600/Ava+and+tote2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBIyXNUpJq2zwhoJPpcteH8oy0A0Z7I2ldngNQdjI2NoDk7uS8OAjkJdOGCpLXKVz7zmNvIzeqWVDteJKna_aa-t_pJ9nUuNspnyHgeEAJCGDoYdje2lhtMfgnC-5qQ2QjRm4HGxkr80/s200/Ava+and+tote2.jpg" width="151" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoh2sPmC0evxLirEOpVFbNyUk8w0_0vOyVWTXSppB3aOaQmwZB7XzuMHwha3_KqH8vCMueYzXETT6bG6mcRir34f1F_OjsCA6pfO7PuGRp2muGD39EHMnLYkK7IU9vpzq8mbMEUq6w_w/s1600/quentin+%2526+tote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoh2sPmC0evxLirEOpVFbNyUk8w0_0vOyVWTXSppB3aOaQmwZB7XzuMHwha3_KqH8vCMueYzXETT6bG6mcRir34f1F_OjsCA6pfO7PuGRp2muGD39EHMnLYkK7IU9vpzq8mbMEUq6w_w/s200/quentin+%2526+tote.jpg" width="113" /></a></div>
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And now, for the rest of the story… all of our care in
making a safe carrier, in explaining and reiterating how important it is not to
drop them because they are extremely breakable, did not have the desired
effect. I was told that when they got
home, Charlotte went out of the house with her Kindle tucked under her chin and
both hands full with other things… and you can guess the rest of the
story! It dropped and cracked one
corner… still usable except for the inch that is cracked, but broken,
nevertheless. Some of us learn our
lessons the hard way! When his dad told
10-year-old Quentin to put his Kindle in the tote, Quentin said they only made
the totes because…”Grandma was teaching us to sew on the machine.” His misconception (or twisting of the facts)
was quickly corrected! One more update: Ava and Charlotte called me the other day and
asked how forgiving I am. I replied I
think I am pretty forgiving… and Charlotte admitted that she had AGAIN dropped
her Kindle, this time on the wood floor in their family room, and the screen
had shattered. Ava said it still works,
but she is concerned Charlotte might cut herself when she uses it. My son said he will check it out and see if a
screen cover will help, or if it needs to be replaced. Accidents happen… and there is no point in
punishing her. I think the loss of her
favorite gift is punishment enough. Some
of us just need to learn our lessons the hard way, and hopefully it’s only a
small bump on the path toward wisdom… and common sense!<br />
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-66281930415690395602015-09-17T11:20:00.002-07:002015-09-17T20:33:43.746-07:00Log Cabin Quilts<div class="MsoNormal">
Log Cabin Quilts:<o:p></o:p></div>
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July 4<sup>th</sup> came and went, one of my favorite
holidays of the year! I am as excited as
a small child, watching fireworks, but this year I watched from my
deck, although I only saw faint edges of the display in the distance. I was entertained by the firefly show
displayed against the dark trees, however.
They seemed to be agitated by the booming noises surrounding us, and
really put on a show of lights of their own.
Last summer, grandson Quentin was fascinated by the fireflies; they
would sit on his hand and flash their phosphorescent glow. We Googled them and discovered that is the
way they attract their mates, and by the show of lights on my lawn, there must
be a lot of firefly merging going on!
They don’t seem to be as abundant in the neighbor’s yards, and I wonder
if it is because I don’t poison my “weeds”.
What most people consider weeds are actually wonderful herbal medicine
in many cases, and I enjoy the bursts of color… purple violets, golden
dandelions… a wonderful array of royal colors adorning my grass. Two poems came to me while I was watching the
show of lights, two tributes to summer.
I tried without success to capture the fireflies, and the fireworks were just as elusive on camera.</div>
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Fireflies, flickering <o:p></o:p></div>
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a phosphorescent dance,<o:p></o:p></div>
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seek romance;<o:p></o:p></div>
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inherent trust<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lighting the dusk <o:p></o:p></div>
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of a sultry summer night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fireworks hidden by tall trees;<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lingering sparks<o:p></o:p></div>
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Reach for the stars;<o:p></o:p></div>
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booming trails <o:p></o:p></div>
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shatter the silence,<o:p></o:p></div>
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On the dark side of the moon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nature in all her splendor offers inspiration to those of us who need to feed the artist within, whether our medium is paint or fabric. Perhaps my pleasure in budgeting contributed to my love of
scrappy quilts… they use every bit of fabric in some way. Two of my favorite traditional patterns that I’ve made
many times are the Log Cabin (it uses 1-1/2” strips of all colors) and Around
the World, which I make with 2-1/2” strips. There are many variations of Log Cabins and many different layouts of
the blocks. I prefer cutting my strips
to the correct lengths before sewing them into blocks, but others just sew and
then cut the strip off after sewing. When I have leftover scraps of fabric, I often cut them into
1-1/2” strips and put them into a Ziploc bag or basket. A plastic bin with a lid also works great for
storing those bits and pieces. If you
like, you can further cut those strips into the largest sizes you can for your
“logs”… see below for the lengths needed for each block. If you are REALLY organized, you can even put
the same length strips into Ziploc sandwich baggies so they are already
separated into the sizes you need. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZQZ7rZ8XhyphenhyphennIpLHHCKAS6Sfy4-FEz7rtiGWV33m13Vlez2TfMf2dYgF4MjAa_e34-g_ZJbueSkMShyaJQXIxWzjrzKCYKMiD-rfsWX8M4p1PDpZFYqVryrFeY2kDB3nFAhJbZgqHaA8/s1600/lob+cabin+strips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZQZ7rZ8XhyphenhyphennIpLHHCKAS6Sfy4-FEz7rtiGWV33m13Vlez2TfMf2dYgF4MjAa_e34-g_ZJbueSkMShyaJQXIxWzjrzKCYKMiD-rfsWX8M4p1PDpZFYqVryrFeY2kDB3nFAhJbZgqHaA8/s320/lob+cabin+strips.jpg" width="320" /></a>I’m enamored with Robert Kaufman’s Far East and Luxe fabric
lines! Some have metallic accents and
many have an Oriental flavor… truly elegant and lovely. I am using them in several patterns, but the
Log Cabin done in his Far East and Luxe lines is what the focus is in this
blog. It’s a very easy block to do, and
goes quickly. I cut my pieces to length
before I start sewing, and lay them out
in order; a cookie sheet is a good way to organize the strips according to size. </div>
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(See photo at left)</div>
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Traditionally, the center square of the block is red,
orange or shades of gold, to signify the fire in the hearth of the cabin, or
the “heart” of the home. I use a 2-1/2”
square for the center, and work out from that, attaching 1-1/2” strips to each
side. The center of these blocks is a gold print.</div>
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There are four strips in each round of the block, and you can do as many
rounds as you like, depending on the size block you want. I first attach a strip of light to the center
square, then working clockwise, I add another light strip, then a dark and the
final strip on the round is another dark.
Four rounds will result in an 8" finished block. One more round would make a 10" finished block.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The strips are cut as follows: </div>
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Light: Dark:<br />
Round 1: 2-1/2” 3-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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3-1/2” 4-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round
2: 4-1/2” 5-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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5-1/2” 6-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Round 3:
6-1/2” 7-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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7-1/2” 8-1/2”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are photos of each round. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu6MuC0aHtUJENN86tDRNWHREMSyY7TdOxwSww7DcAn85gwzOut-4NOGesdYsfEdEL4qfGf260pHudHakCswFXFrB2C8Cgq4FV3VKsoJQbpurTIuP6KlLTZaKF2UwB0CKRUWazgcMo4w/s1600/round+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu6MuC0aHtUJENN86tDRNWHREMSyY7TdOxwSww7DcAn85gwzOut-4NOGesdYsfEdEL4qfGf260pHudHakCswFXFrB2C8Cgq4FV3VKsoJQbpurTIuP6KlLTZaKF2UwB0CKRUWazgcMo4w/s320/round+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Round 1:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6E3VXjW96gXgk1r4nLi5B6g89f_k6tM4s8WLXMioLU2b33kkcqyGidAfOOcAzVlxDEs1tD9H6d1MM2CZOfurl-Qr3sk4y3IEuUcq6W5MzsO4r-ewVqO0GX4zfsroyGM7K8RiORoBon0/s1600/round+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6E3VXjW96gXgk1r4nLi5B6g89f_k6tM4s8WLXMioLU2b33kkcqyGidAfOOcAzVlxDEs1tD9H6d1MM2CZOfurl-Qr3sk4y3IEuUcq6W5MzsO4r-ewVqO0GX4zfsroyGM7K8RiORoBon0/s320/round+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Round 2: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPloQ3cTKaEo1RJJyhNKBpKUSxOFm_4phnyVdneF8MLdi-o8j-WWjhxzB-U_pID1OufkxsLNsSMbF_RmnUuyGa1kHE5oUqWNHQ5G9gYko3qwfFsPffSiFI3GqxrKgSZF2kVK3QADICoCs/s1600/round+3+light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPloQ3cTKaEo1RJJyhNKBpKUSxOFm_4phnyVdneF8MLdi-o8j-WWjhxzB-U_pID1OufkxsLNsSMbF_RmnUuyGa1kHE5oUqWNHQ5G9gYko3qwfFsPffSiFI3GqxrKgSZF2kVK3QADICoCs/s320/round+3+light.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftb9q5Bv1zDtap7-LKqaOIVeihM-mQTnjx1YRqtuEZOUaFktwnAwCRDsfxs09RLkhn3cA3uC281L9TcYiz-49Uw502ayQpeL0Ags6DMHwIvM_p5XPrtBDPUO7loVZ5MT_LDlQC6wuJ2k/s1600/round+3+dark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftb9q5Bv1zDtap7-LKqaOIVeihM-mQTnjx1YRqtuEZOUaFktwnAwCRDsfxs09RLkhn3cA3uC281L9TcYiz-49Uw502ayQpeL0Ags6DMHwIvM_p5XPrtBDPUO7loVZ5MT_LDlQC6wuJ2k/s320/round+3+dark.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Round 3, Light and Dark at left</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi5yQJo07mGlVJoKKjbeuOyTyZMLQciLNMy7CyiXBx4xnDcZpExrK8-bDDejC163ux0ii_lfp4oS4rXE-5mfLexb9Xfu5ru5rphDbIyOYd-8BdlgYjkCDJniYFHZsnju8gNcAF010Zuk/s1600/log+cabin3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi5yQJo07mGlVJoKKjbeuOyTyZMLQciLNMy7CyiXBx4xnDcZpExrK8-bDDejC163ux0ii_lfp4oS4rXE-5mfLexb9Xfu5ru5rphDbIyOYd-8BdlgYjkCDJniYFHZsnju8gNcAF010Zuk/s320/log+cabin3.jpg" width="320" /></a>This is a photo of the quilt my son took in a guest bedroom upstairs. It does not have a border yet. It will be queen sized, and grace
the bedroom of him and his wife someday when it is completed. I am much better at sewing the tops than quilting
them, so I hope they aren’t holding their breath in anticipation!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4W5FoDv3alZH_GFb9V3bsag-BMchJqwf0W6SV03chDMHrOTefu_eOjbRfuJse0GiCHZN0TWq6Ko2aqfv9U-leBGXYXDtfdcDjFidq-NWcg3vbQcFdoBbIM21F9MfYwCWCY39OoYglSk/s1600/Alysha+LC3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4W5FoDv3alZH_GFb9V3bsag-BMchJqwf0W6SV03chDMHrOTefu_eOjbRfuJse0GiCHZN0TWq6Ko2aqfv9U-leBGXYXDtfdcDjFidq-NWcg3vbQcFdoBbIM21F9MfYwCWCY39OoYglSk/s200/Alysha+LC3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7_hStLwfN1u-S22SbFy931wd50U-7jq_U3KZJG2OlbkHZjk-wz_5ZwUH9FgrhOre_7_xfIIbOBk8zXyPWjFej0P24AlBcy2ZMOCGgOXKhPTcdJFCirCLXm3t_HaoOvUmatpMS-qUoUU/s1600/Aly+log+cabin+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7_hStLwfN1u-S22SbFy931wd50U-7jq_U3KZJG2OlbkHZjk-wz_5ZwUH9FgrhOre_7_xfIIbOBk8zXyPWjFej0P24AlBcy2ZMOCGgOXKhPTcdJFCirCLXm3t_HaoOvUmatpMS-qUoUU/s320/Aly+log+cabin+block.jpg" width="306" /></a>Here are photos of a few more log cabin tops I have waiting
to be quilted. The one
with the fire-breathing dragons is for my oldest granddaughter, who wanted a
quilt in blues and oranges and loves dragons. I found this little remnant of dragon fabric for the center blocks, and discovered my daughter had found the same fabric many states away and made curtains for her bedroom from it. My granddaughter now has her own apartment and a queen sized bed... so I need to add some borders and get this quilted, finally!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpvrQHvvLt5KnM7XKCLkGGVAjvEkeyMLYQLg24Kc950GkyNlyMFuzdJbEuMQ2TCMdWeMXm1jNPX6NGxSI0DNNtR3pfHZhdfi6CDaBVWFV-8LmA5Ccs728W6bNTWt9INqAFWgKkBCjASk/s1600/scrappy+log+cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpvrQHvvLt5KnM7XKCLkGGVAjvEkeyMLYQLg24Kc950GkyNlyMFuzdJbEuMQ2TCMdWeMXm1jNPX6NGxSI0DNNtR3pfHZhdfi6CDaBVWFV-8LmA5Ccs728W6bNTWt9INqAFWgKkBCjASk/s320/scrappy+log+cabin.jpg" width="320" /></a>This is a lap quilt that has not had any requests for a permanent residence yet, made totally from scraps with no planned color story. </div>
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In a prior post, I have a tutorial for an offset log cabin,
where the lights and darks are not the same width strips. </div>
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http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2013/02/quilts-of-valor.html</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgENaIl-UW2CRBKMJRDK6DnqGtCaLXKp6uHGvSF7QtCB14xoF0DvXxUBdHI2EDMiDp76TSJFzUk1rfyAPbbpFwUIstBxv957JiGI7vbK4T6GwGMTV0c7mkw7XzavR0IQHLb_oQsuIhGwo/s1600/Copy+of+9-patch+log+cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgENaIl-UW2CRBKMJRDK6DnqGtCaLXKp6uHGvSF7QtCB14xoF0DvXxUBdHI2EDMiDp76TSJFzUk1rfyAPbbpFwUIstBxv957JiGI7vbK4T6GwGMTV0c7mkw7XzavR0IQHLb_oQsuIhGwo/s320/Copy+of+9-patch+log+cabin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have also made a 9-Patch Log Cabin, </div>
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with a
9-Patch block as the center, rather than the 2-1/2” square, and using 2-1/2”
‘logs’ instead. </div>
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The quilt on the right went to my youngest daughter, and is actually quilted!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t_gq1t28gmUVtKsL2jdgevisDNo2lE2-lt62WpFxKV-j-ATFZee4mZURWa10d8sDsoWyudf7UAxhdwPYMcABSRadLyawG0zNdf_fPdDUawx6wPdSrsG4BqqqrGl0kjSdD_1TE_2KFfk/s1600/Copy+of+4+patch+log+cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t_gq1t28gmUVtKsL2jdgevisDNo2lE2-lt62WpFxKV-j-ATFZee4mZURWa10d8sDsoWyudf7UAxhdwPYMcABSRadLyawG0zNdf_fPdDUawx6wPdSrsG4BqqqrGl0kjSdD_1TE_2KFfk/s320/Copy+of+4+patch+log+cabin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The variation on the left is made completely of 2-1/2" scraps left from other projects, and is loved by my youngest granddaughter, Charlotte. She loves the kitten border, especially, and this one is also quilted.</div>
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Log Cabin quilts are very easy to make, a
great way to use up your scraps from other projects, and they look pretty, too! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-71115965510044705432015-09-15T00:48:00.000-07:002015-09-15T00:48:27.492-07:00Living on a Budget and Crayon Baby Quilts<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Living on a Budget
and Crayon Baby Quilts:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For many years, I was a single parent without much income,
and I learned to budget my money to keep five little tummies full! I learned to stretch a dollar from my
parents and grandparents, and although money wasn’t plentiful, we never felt
poor. My mother sewed beautiful clothing
for us, and there was never a day that we didn’t have homemade bread slathered
with fresh butter with our meals, and homemade cake and cookies in the
pantry. My cousins, Roger and Art, were
the same age as I… our mothers were sisters.
One day, we were arguing about whose mother made the best bread, and Art
chimed in with, “My mother makes bread so good you can’t even taste it!” His mother was the sister who didn’t
bake! I still like to save money on meal
planning… it leaves more to spend on my quilting passion! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Groceries seem to get more expensive all the time, but I can get a 50# bag of
bread flour at Costco for under $12. I
often use the bread machine to make the dough, and shape it into dinner rolls
or loaves of bread and bake them in the oven.
I can get a lot of bread and rolls from a 50# bag of flour. One of the cheapest meats lately seems to be
chicken. I can buy a family pack of
boneless, skinless chicken breasts for under $2 per pound, and make enough
meals to feed a couple of people for a week.
I simmer the breasts in a pot of water, and then cool them. Sometimes I grill them instead of boiling. A couple of the chicken breasts are cut up
to add to a hearty chef salad, and will make about 4 or 5 large salads. I shred one or two of them to make chicken
and cheese quesadillas or enchiladas for another meal. Another meal I like is a pasta salad with
diced cooked chicken, green onion and green and/or red seedless grapes, with a
mayonnaise based dressing but because pasta is high in carbs, I don’t eat that
often. I dice the rest of them (usually about 4 of
them are left at this point) and use the water that I cooked them in to make a
pot of chicken rice or chicken noodle soup.
The remaining chicken goes into a crock pot to make a Mexican medley to
eat as is with cheese, guacamole, and sour cream, or serve over rice or
quinoa. Here are my quick and easy
recipes for the last two.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Chicken Rice Soup:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Add enough water to the pot you cooked the chicken in to have
about 3 quarts of liquid. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Add 2 Tablespoons of chicken soup base paste, or to taste…
do NOT use boullion, which is saltier.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Add 1 Tablespoon of Mrs. Dash’s for extra flavor.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bring the liquid to a boil.
Turn down the heat and add 1 cup of long-grained rice, rinsed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Add one or two diced cooked chicken breasts. Cover and simmer until rice is cooked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. May add diced onion and diced celery to the
water before boiling, if desired. It
looks pretty to garnish the soup with some chopped chives or green onions, when
served.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Delicious with some crusty garlic breadsticks on the side. Another of my favorite comfort foods is
chicken soup accompanied by a peanut butter sandwich.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Spicy Mexican Bowl:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Put the following ingredients into a 3 quart crock pot:<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 cans RoTel tomatoes with peppers (or 1 large can of diced
tomatoes, if peppers aren’t pleasing to you)<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 can black beans<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 can chili beans<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 to 2 cups frozen whole kernel corn<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 Tablespoons dried onions <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 Tablespoon Taco seasoning<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 or 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mix ingredients. Cover
and cook on high for about an hour until it begins to bubble, then turn down to
low. At this point, add 2 Tablespoons
chopped fresh Cilantro, optional.
Continue to cook on low for a half hour or until dinnertime.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Serve in a bowl, topped with shredded Mexican blend cheese
and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and/or gauacamole. May serve it on top of rice or quinoa, and
garnish with slightly crushed taco chips.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My Minnesota grandchildren spent part of the summer with me,
as they usually do. This year, they have
two new babies in their family, so I thought they would enjoy making some baby
quilts. I got some fabric crayons, and thought
they would express their artistic talent by drawing their own pictures to
transfer to fabric, but they didn’t like that idea. Instead, we downloaded some simple pictures
to color, and the results were excellent!
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Fabric Crayon Baby Quilt:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbI8unRHTOocg1QHTYmI9PEobQguVRUr_YCdosCHGzhyYipHpFTTJCld6YAxAEAHzLzRxs6vTA5IbyHMmaw8jrfyG_KA54lrMUaFEMvdFxCqLSxpN1WFrmM4a8DoVkhOpe0BiM0t3Kkk/s1600/coloring+the+blociks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbI8unRHTOocg1QHTYmI9PEobQguVRUr_YCdosCHGzhyYipHpFTTJCld6YAxAEAHzLzRxs6vTA5IbyHMmaw8jrfyG_KA54lrMUaFEMvdFxCqLSxpN1WFrmM4a8DoVkhOpe0BiM0t3Kkk/s320/coloring+the+blociks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cut 8” squares of paper for drawing designs (or printing).</div>
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Color designs with fabric crayons, outlining with a dark
color to set the colors off best.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut 10” squares of white or unbleached muslin or cotton
fabric.<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Coloring the pictures with fabric crayons, right)</div>
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(Ironing the picture onto fabric, below)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrjCOY7ISNEDRnpU9JJ8pAQQaQ9-7-pZUDDroU_sj1W6xPw3tCn460kUt9DCTl5d8jtBDMTQLzPo5bkc9TCwKDk4EV5PwUIwHzMM4ClOc6pR2Z2JiwAMLzihpQlcWoym1rvvehe8BlAw/s1600/block+positioned+on+fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrjCOY7ISNEDRnpU9JJ8pAQQaQ9-7-pZUDDroU_sj1W6xPw3tCn460kUt9DCTl5d8jtBDMTQLzPo5bkc9TCwKDk4EV5PwUIwHzMM4ClOc6pR2Z2JiwAMLzihpQlcWoym1rvvehe8BlAw/s320/block+positioned+on+fabric.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Place one empty 8” square of paper on ironing board to
protect the ironing board cover.</div>
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Center one 10” square of fabric over paper. Iron fabric so it is wrinkle-free.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Place one colored picture, crayon side down, on the center
of the cotton fabric.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Match edges with the paper under the fabric; it can easily
be seen through the fabric.</div>
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Iron with a hot iron, without steam, lifting the iron, not
sliding it, so that the design is not moved.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut 2” strips of a color for sashing the blocks. Cut these
into 10” segments to go between the blocks.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut 2” squares of a contrasting color for the cornerstones
to put between the main color strips, if desired. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Join the 2” sashing strips to the blocks horizontally. (Auditioning sashing, below)</div>
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Join the 2” sashing strips to 2” contrasting squares for the
row between the sashed blocks.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Join all rows. We
used 9 blocks in the quilt top.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Measure one side of the quilt top.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut 1-1/2” strips of the contrast color for the first
border. Cut 2 of the strips the length
of the quilt.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sew one strip to each of the 2 opposite sides.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Measure the quilt from side to side, including the borders
you just sewed on and cut two9 more 1-1/2” strips that length and sew them on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut 3” strips for the outer border. Again, measure the length of the quilt and
cut 2 strips that length and sew them on.
Repeat for the remaining 2 sides, cutting to the new </div>
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measurement that
includes the outer border.</div>
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Press the top well. </div>
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(Charlotte, age 6, quilting the quilt, right)</div>
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Cut a coordinating backing the size of the front.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cut the batting the size of the front. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Place the batting on a hard surface, then place the wrong
side of the backing against the batting.
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Place the top, right side down, on the right side of the
backing, making a sandwich with right sides together.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pin at intervals to hold all three layers together. Sew around quilt, leaving an opening to turn
the quilt right side out. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Remove pins and turn the quilt right side out. This method
of making a quilt is called “birthing a quilt” and does not require
binding. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Poke the corners out so they are square. Turn raw edges left open for turning to the
inside. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Topstitch all around the quilt top, making sure to stitch
the opening shut.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Smooth quilt out neatly, and lay on a hard surface. Tie the quilt, using a heavy thread, crochet
cotton, several strands of sewing thread, or yarn. Knot the ties securely with a double knot or
square knot. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Start by placing knots at the corners of the blocks, center
of each sashing strip, center of the cornerstones, etc., and work several ties
into each block to secure the layers well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We chose to quilt the layers with a walking foot instead of
tying it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Your quilt is done and ready to “hug” a baby in the love you
fashioned out of fabric.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwft4bjMMRVsBOvzJQ7K49kwb-g8NddOpARRrDA-rz_HBIBWLJY2kP_OR8EzZkRmYX_tSGmV94ai9ElFVNO0RfGMa9ImF13f54fyR8Tq7MK2ElTK7YJGDuCEoIILCXtQaYCOebFcpfec/s1600/quilt+1e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwft4bjMMRVsBOvzJQ7K49kwb-g8NddOpARRrDA-rz_HBIBWLJY2kP_OR8EzZkRmYX_tSGmV94ai9ElFVNO0RfGMa9ImF13f54fyR8Tq7MK2ElTK7YJGDuCEoIILCXtQaYCOebFcpfec/s400/quilt+1e.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
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You can see the looks of pride on their faces, with the completed quilt for their cousin!</div>
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This second quilt is for another cousin, and still waiting to be quilted.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-Vz-DeGBNoH2m-dsr0OEyIDFr3UovvuM3AmBAR8_ktxGeCbGPfHCrVOciJ2LBk01rTyYbqizrD9ldgPZ1zYFJARivFnz_NE0HjRdRxHET8Cn8TGkJq_zwsOKeI4scei1vVvalt797oo/s1600/quilt+2+design+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-Vz-DeGBNoH2m-dsr0OEyIDFr3UovvuM3AmBAR8_ktxGeCbGPfHCrVOciJ2LBk01rTyYbqizrD9ldgPZ1zYFJARivFnz_NE0HjRdRxHET8Cn8TGkJq_zwsOKeI4scei1vVvalt797oo/s400/quilt+2+design+wall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The children picked the pictures, the colors, and fabrics, and signed each block they colored. </div>
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Ava, age 14, went over spots that needed more outlining with a Micron pen. It was a great project for them to work on with Grandma, and I think they learned a bit more about quilting this summer. </div>
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All three of them got new Kindle Fire tablets, and this last photo shows why the second quilt didn't get quilted by the grandchildren!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGz2vHAHZBLSF8dg5gNlKwt7nbqcrvEmMRHts83ZvUP3ieGF_3DJswBGpkwwE-qsiOC7udRwZt18fbqWxMtgHkeqkr8RV6cz_Mme1we3n0VX_eLgCRasqA2eYi2535fkbz1tm9-ijblVA/s1600/why+grandma+sewed+the+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGz2vHAHZBLSF8dg5gNlKwt7nbqcrvEmMRHts83ZvUP3ieGF_3DJswBGpkwwE-qsiOC7udRwZt18fbqWxMtgHkeqkr8RV6cz_Mme1we3n0VX_eLgCRasqA2eYi2535fkbz1tm9-ijblVA/s400/why+grandma+sewed+the+quilt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-31692295714178031312015-05-02T09:52:00.000-07:002015-05-02T09:53:05.749-07:00Serbian Potato Salad and Baby Quilts in Progress<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to be one of those women whose homes look like pages
from a Better Homes and Garden magazine.
But… unfortunately, I am not. I
am not even close. I am so far from
close that one of my daughters says she is going to stage an intervention and
call Hoarders to feature me on their show!
That is a slight exaggeration, unless you dare to open a closet door or
go into my basement or garage. I have
watched Hoarders a time or two (quite by accident, mind you) and most of my house looks
nothing like theirs! I will admit,
however, that with the ease of online ordering on my computer, and the
eagerness of merchants to send me emails announcing their fantastic deals, even
with free shipping, I have taken advantage of a few of those specials! Most of
my Christmas gifts were ordered online and delivered to my front door in record
time. When the weather makes driving
hazardous, I can order many things online from the big superstores, from flour
to canned foods, yarn, and fabric… and every other non-perishable thing I can
think of. I've discovered most perishable items can be ordered in powdered
form, like milk, eggs and butter. Dried
and canned fruit are readily available, as well, but I haven’t found any
substitute for a good, fresh salad! I am
a seasonal recluse, seldom going out by myself when the sidewalks may be
slippery. Too many of my friends have
slipped and fallen, and I do not yearn to be in their number.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi8osXscuADmqznlqpKcujAxyOeh9lmvPtZGLeDnGMm7NY6gDzYNUeEiqKLM1QshABLz_knkjvDmB_0ks-8DRxqB2aStpotrmE0gv8m24pYHGJX2mq7UsvCW6KfEgK3tpTTCvI4a0r-s/s1600/Fossil+Fern+9+patch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi8osXscuADmqznlqpKcujAxyOeh9lmvPtZGLeDnGMm7NY6gDzYNUeEiqKLM1QshABLz_knkjvDmB_0ks-8DRxqB2aStpotrmE0gv8m24pYHGJX2mq7UsvCW6KfEgK3tpTTCvI4a0r-s/s1600/Fossil+Fern+9+patch.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a>There is usually a quilt in progress on my design wall,
which consists of a flannel-backed tablecloth hung in front of the fireplace in
my family room. Here are the baby quilts
I have had there recently… the first is a basic 9-Patch, made with Fossil Fern
fabrics and a tone-on-tone white cotton background fabric. I finished the edges of the basic quilt by using just two parts of the 9-Patches. I love the Fossil Fern fabrics... Alyssa says they look like watercolors, and I agree with her. I made this from 2-1/2" strips of fat quarters I ordered online from Craftsy... when they had a sale I couldn't resist! They were only a little over $1 for each fat quarter, sold in a box of 90, and each of the fat quarters is a slightly different shade, with all the colors you could imagine included. The white center blocks are 6-1/2" squares. By pressing the seams on the 9-patch blocks in opposite directions, I didn't need to do any pinning until I pinned the rows together for sewing. It's a quick and easy quilt to make, and the result is beautiful and colorful. I will not put a border on this, but will bind it in one of the Fossil Fern fabrics, probably blue or green. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix8nm-VsY6l7O7KTR9Ktw_D4Jf2oRIorkKY0S2vSQDY1txouphaEhiLe6UxsDVFFfS3faYLyuj0pDimhI1fbOqcctP26C0EASXnzeJNUX6BUdGN5vqfDlPX3qLLYbMsxcypXr9uET_5w/s1600/star+chain+baby+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix8nm-VsY6l7O7KTR9Ktw_D4Jf2oRIorkKY0S2vSQDY1txouphaEhiLe6UxsDVFFfS3faYLyuj0pDimhI1fbOqcctP26C0EASXnzeJNUX6BUdGN5vqfDlPX3qLLYbMsxcypXr9uET_5w/s1600/star+chain+baby+quilt.jpg" height="301" width="320" /></a></div>
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The other is made up of leftover pieces from
a Quilt-Along Wedding Dress Blue is featuring on her Blog. A link to her Blogspot is included below. Check out her blog... she has some lovely free quilt patterns and tutorials, plus a uniquely designed wall quilt rack that her father makes from oak that can be ordered. I am getting one for myself... my birthday is coming up this summer! <a href="https://weddingdressblue.wordpress.com/calico-rose-quiltalong/" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">https://weddingdressblue.wordpress.com/calico-rose-quiltalong/</a><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">. </span>I made mine a bit differently than she did, using strip
cutting and piecing. I made the big queen sized quilt with mostly jewel tones. The center of the star is a 16-patch and the star points were made by sewing a colored 8" square to an 8" background colored square and making 8 half square triangles at once. <a href="http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2014/09/gluten-free-popovers-and-speedy-half.html">http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2014/09/gluten-free-popovers-and-speedy-half.html</a></div>
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My friends know I enjoy cooking and baking as much as
quilting. Recently, I was talking to one
of my favorite people, who happens to be Serbian. She told me about two recipes that she makes,
even in the nursing home where she now resides.
The first is something I will dub “Raw Onion Relish”, which she said is
delicious as a condiment to accompany the roast chicken you can buy already roasted in many grocery stores. The other is her version of Serbian Potato
Salad. Both sounded so good, I had to
make them both last week.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Raw Onion Relish:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Chop one onion and place it in a small bowl.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Drizzle with about one tablespoon Olive Oil.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle with salt to taste (I used flaked Sea Salt… Becka
stressed NO PEPPER) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mix well. Delicious
served with roast chicken. Becka’s
instructions: Take one bite of roast chicken
then a bite of the onion relish and chew them together! It really is delicious. I didn't have a chicken to roast, but I fried
a chicken breast and it worked well as an accompaniment to the onion relish. An added bonus… raw onion and garlic are great
antioxidants. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Becka’s Serbian
Potato Salad (my version):<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Bake 4 large red potatoes in the microwave <o:p></o:p></div>
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(or boil or bake in the oven; see link below for the bag tutorial)<o:p></o:p></div>
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While the potatoes are baking, dice one medium onion<o:p></o:p></div>
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Peel potatoes when they have cooled enough to handle. <br />
I left a lot of the red skin on, as I had scrubbed the potatoes before baking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dice the potatoes into a large bowl.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Put diced onion over the potatoes in the bowl.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt (I used flaked Sea Salt)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Drizzle with ¼ cup Olive Oil<o:p></o:p></div>
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Drizzle one to two tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar over all, depending on taste<o:p></o:p></div>
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Optional: may
sprinkle with black pepper<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mix well. Can serve
warm or cold, as a side. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2013/03/quilts-for-microwave-awesome.html">http://diamonnaturals.blogspot.com/2013/03/quilts-for-microwave-awesome.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Since food should look pretty, also, I think this could be garnished with a chopped hard-boiled egg and/or some chopped chives to compliment the red potato skins.</div>
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Daughter Tricia grilled boneless pork chops, and we had a
delicious fresh fruit bowl and lightly cooked asparagus spears on the side,
along with the Serbian Potato Salad.
Fresh strawberry pie for dessert, rounded out the dinner menu. Dinner on the patio with a warm sun and gentle
summer breezes… and the company of good friends… that’s what memories are made
of!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-29706459574330351972015-04-25T19:35:00.001-07:002015-04-25T19:35:58.282-07:00Springtime in Cincinnati and Taco Pie<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lcE3xF05MRLkFOF-9VM7fEmcwENA_H1Jt_oph1eh7Pfza43jStNL5oIArz9MOBJUyw6lTlBsRdeYy0JYRFTRAhuYVQsFPz1bxZq2Oa7SuJJelJyLFMY1MNL0TZQzgoC3qYJ43uLpp4k/s1600/robin+nest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</a>Spring has finally arrived!
It seems that Mother Nature is about a month late this year… but now the
bushes and trees that edge my back yard are leafed out and I once again feel as
if I am all alone in this big city when I look out my family room window. I cannot see the neighboring houses, and the strip
of trees shield me from the houses whose properties join with mine in the back.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuNXZ3x0fcfczomsFf1CNnAsToe9c3QZCJWtjRUN-br18yJNnlwj_yKBmIYfVjnvn35z6OEmqzjynoC24R8KY0mb9dGpppkRb3YcS_zHaWDiJwdduGLPvggZPhhw0GE1U5AVKgk7HooI/s1600/wreath+nest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuNXZ3x0fcfczomsFf1CNnAsToe9c3QZCJWtjRUN-br18yJNnlwj_yKBmIYfVjnvn35z6OEmqzjynoC24R8KY0mb9dGpppkRb3YcS_zHaWDiJwdduGLPvggZPhhw0GE1U5AVKgk7HooI/s1600/wreath+nest.jpg" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
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A robin has chosen the wreath by my front
door as her nesting place, and she chirps loudly every time I collect my
mail! I think it’s probably a safe place
for her eggs, with all the squirrels who inhabit the trees and the cats that
roam the yards, some of them probably feral.
My oldest daughter looked today, and there are little blue eggs in her
nest already. I don’t go in and out very
often, and get more phone calls than company, so outside of the mailman
visiting daily, she has the front porch to herself. You can see a close-up of the wreath with the nest, and also how close it is to my mailbox. Speaking of squirrels... a month or so ago, I noticed a squirrel lying on a branch of a tree... way out near the end of the branch, where the wind was rocking the branch. The squirrel was being rocked by the breeze, and laid there for a very long time, obviously enjoying the experience. </div>
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I then noticed another squirrel on a tree nearby, doing the same thing. Who knew squirrels had that sense of adventure?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOBqzl4uZClz_Wx0zreYhEr7Zj6YBH_QQtRoKrBW4AsVZr8bWbz_FzSEBHmXfhUS2XckOdwRNMZOxSheewfhJ1A7YcFgEwFoGPYQBJ94rrHjyqqc2bzXXL1QLkwJ54PxJ2XZ9AuOI-BZ8/s1600/cat+awake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOBqzl4uZClz_Wx0zreYhEr7Zj6YBH_QQtRoKrBW4AsVZr8bWbz_FzSEBHmXfhUS2XckOdwRNMZOxSheewfhJ1A7YcFgEwFoGPYQBJ94rrHjyqqc2bzXXL1QLkwJ54PxJ2XZ9AuOI-BZ8/s1600/cat+awake.jpg" height="200" width="158" /></a></div>
On the left is a photo I took of a cat on my back deck through the window... he doesn't look very friendly! He was napping on my deck chairs for quite a few days, and I think he may have been without a home. Hopefully the robin and her nest are safe from predators on the front of my house.<br />
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Today, my oldest daughter and her husband took me to lunch at Newport on the
Levee… on the river that separates Ohio from Kentucky near the downtown area. It’s a hub of activity, with many stores and
markets, and a picturesque area to shop.
After lunch, we picked up some new chairs for my front porch. They aren't exactly what I wanted, but they
are what I settled for. They are metal, with metal mesh for the back and seat, and the little table matches. Anyone for tea on the front porch in the afternoon sun? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwnNOTDf1852QoqZG_HoRkuB9GQBjC5Txscw2U46HIQDXjjFEPvaqbbQdNhW8GdSaw-Jq1H4RpRfjnT5HnXQkfYqNlE1zKYvSoiP7B4XtQv9OTVxbPRFWpTyPDCK8cyDSVDmUiOIscRk/s1600/new+chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwnNOTDf1852QoqZG_HoRkuB9GQBjC5Txscw2U46HIQDXjjFEPvaqbbQdNhW8GdSaw-Jq1H4RpRfjnT5HnXQkfYqNlE1zKYvSoiP7B4XtQv9OTVxbPRFWpTyPDCK8cyDSVDmUiOIscRk/s1600/new+chairs.jpg" height="158" width="200" /></a></div>
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My middle son
was going to help me choose a new gas grill today, and assemble it on my deck,
but it has been raining all day… not a good time to be building anything
outside, so we will try again next weekend.
I’m so fortunate that three of my children live within a half hour or so
from me, and a fourth is less than five hours away. Last weekend, my daughter-in-law came down by
herself and we had a fun “girls only” weekend, just me and my daughters. Her son (my adorable teen-aged grandson)
thought it was “weird” that she would come down to visit his dad’s family. She laughingly told him, “They’re my family,
too!” I’m blessed to have a
daughter-in-law who chooses to spend time with me. My son made a good choice when he chose his
wife! And as a bonus, she loves to
sew! One of my daughters is passionate
about gardening, and the other enjoys beading… they both sew, but aren’t as
excited about it as their sister-in-law.
She knows she will inherit my stash in the future… and my son just
groans! He grew up in the house that grew the stash! </div>
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I’m long overdue in posting a blog… I have some recipes to
share. One of my younger granddaughters
has chosen to be a vegetarian, and her brother is glucose-intolerant. They love Taco Pie, and last summer I made
one with meat and one meatless. Since
then, I've developed a gluten-free, meatless Taco Pie that I think will satisfy
everyone’s dietary needs in one casserole.
The meatless one uses vegetable soy protein, and it is really quite
good. I mixed the soy protein with hot
water, which reconstituted the soy protein, and then used it as if it was
ground beef in the recipe. It’s the
first time I've used it and I was pleasantly surprised. Both recipes have black beans and cheese for
more protein, so I think it’s quite a healthy meal for anyone. I’ll list both my original recipe and the
gluten-free vegetarian version in this blog.
I buy my spices and textured soy protein from Frontier Herbs (Decorah,
Iowa) online, but many health food stores have them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>TACO PIE:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Makes 6 servings <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 pound lean ground beef <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup) <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 small jalapeno pepper, seeds removed, diced (optional)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taco seasoning to taste (I use Frontier)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Brown ground beef, then add chopped onion and jalapeno
pepper and cook a bit more. Put in the
bottom of a casserole or large pie pan. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Top with a can of black beans, drained and lightly mashed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle with about a cup of Fiesta blend shredded cheese.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Topping: </b></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 cup milk<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
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½ cup biscuit mix<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 teaspoon hot sauce<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 teaspoon taco seasoning<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blend in the blender.
Pour over meat/bean mixture. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Bake at 350 degrees about 20 minutes. Sprinkle a large handful of shredded Fiesta
cheese (more, if you like) over top and continue baking for another 10 minutes,
until the biscuit topping is “set”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cool 5 minutes. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole,
if desired. May sprinkle chopped green
onions or chopped cilantro over sour cream as a garnish.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXUWduhDe_chKe06DbQy2f_Xb5jPWTpCyIPy6UN7dH0JDSZH8vfV2ZxPkWYaAB_ylqcFIQLWmE4DdZzybytYwGiwGEEsa5KoVpMb-K51P_jusLj6MCi8abexJrU2zpXynmwHA8K36Rs4/s1600/taco+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXUWduhDe_chKe06DbQy2f_Xb5jPWTpCyIPy6UN7dH0JDSZH8vfV2ZxPkWYaAB_ylqcFIQLWmE4DdZzybytYwGiwGEEsa5KoVpMb-K51P_jusLj6MCi8abexJrU2zpXynmwHA8K36Rs4/s1600/taco+pie.jpg" height="244" width="320" /></a><b>Gluten Free/Wheat
Free Vegetarian Taco Pie: <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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1 cup textured soy protein<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 cup hot water<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mix and let sit a couple of minutes until soy absorbs the water.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Add:<o:p></o:p></div>
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2 Tbsp. dry vegetarian onion soup mix<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 Tbsp. vegetarian beef flavored dry broth mix</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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1 teaspoon taco seasoning mix<o:p></o:p></div>
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Place in bottom of 7 X 11 pan.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle ½ finely chopped jalapeno pepper over mixture,
optional.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Drain (don’t rinse) 1 can black beans and distribute over
soy mixture.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sprinkle 2 cups grated Mexican blend cheese over beans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Topping: </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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1 cup milk<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
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½ cup wheat free/gluten free biscuit mix<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 teaspoon hot sauce<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 teaspoon taco seasoning<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blend in the blender.
Pour over soy protein/bean mixture.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bake at 350 degrees about 20 minutes. Sprinkle a large handful of shredded Mexican
cheese (more, if you like) over top and continue baking for another 10 minutes,
until the biscuit topping is “set”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cool 5 minutes. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and/or
guacamole, if desired. May sprinkle
chopped green onions or chopped cilantro over sour cream as a garnish.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_sdjbR7r1pWJ5RptjE4HkSUMUXV2zvCy22sFcUFwp8wo_W46cF1GgywygYPTexKl3hN6F6SwcbOhICNlAwI0hLpjOqVLVGVrk6TtI6bt8wkaJfjFESoQh68wkgeDOLliP_8wK2Q5a8c/s1600/michelle+blocks+done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_sdjbR7r1pWJ5RptjE4HkSUMUXV2zvCy22sFcUFwp8wo_W46cF1GgywygYPTexKl3hN6F6SwcbOhICNlAwI0hLpjOqVLVGVrk6TtI6bt8wkaJfjFESoQh68wkgeDOLliP_8wK2Q5a8c/s1600/michelle+blocks+done.jpg" height="151" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulwFbcc_AGHZDdnot1B1O7ehm_ZAujVNUEIKpwwdwPqvXnp4gvgGMDLYq2kpEOXruCIGRYHSyTuiLCZm9TtxlUnQOkFGGU6Dxy1UDEXrxwazRFBHhKgyfGNCGdYgqLsplr5ccO0ca6qM/s1600/Michelle+Single+Irish+Chain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulwFbcc_AGHZDdnot1B1O7ehm_ZAujVNUEIKpwwdwPqvXnp4gvgGMDLYq2kpEOXruCIGRYHSyTuiLCZm9TtxlUnQOkFGGU6Dxy1UDEXrxwazRFBHhKgyfGNCGdYgqLsplr5ccO0ca6qM/s1600/Michelle+Single+Irish+Chain.jpg" height="125" width="200" /></a>On my design wall (which consists of a flannel-backed tablecloth hung over my fireplace) is a sample quilt I made for oldest daughter, Michelle. She has dressers that have gray/black marble tops and a burgundy wall, so I chose a floral burgundy fabric and a jelly roll of Stonehenge fabrics, their Winter line, plus white. The pattern is a simple 9-Patch, and the design comes from the way I put the colors together. The first sample I made used the same fabrics, but it was really a boring quilt to sew (below left)! When she saw the samples, she felt they had too much white and would get soiled too quickly, so I am back to the drawing board. I have a few ideas, and will use the same colors, but with much less white and some gray instead. These two samples are both big enough to become lap quilts.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lcE3xF05MRLkFOF-9VM7fEmcwENA_H1Jt_oph1eh7Pfza43jStNL5oIArz9MOBJUyw6lTlBsRdeYy0JYRFTRAhuYVQsFPz1bxZq2Oa7SuJJelJyLFMY1MNL0TZQzgoC3qYJ43uLpp4k/s1600/robin+nest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lcE3xF05MRLkFOF-9VM7fEmcwENA_H1Jt_oph1eh7Pfza43jStNL5oIArz9MOBJUyw6lTlBsRdeYy0JYRFTRAhuYVQsFPz1bxZq2Oa7SuJJelJyLFMY1MNL0TZQzgoC3qYJ43uLpp4k/s1600/robin+nest.jpg" height="200" width="196" /></a><br />
Enjoy this lovely, balmy spring weather before the heat and humidity set
in! My oldest son said they got about an
inch of snow in Minneapolis the other day, but it melted soon. At times like this, I am SO GLAD I moved to
southern Ohio! The flowering trees in
the neighborhood are in full bloom and offer a treat to eyes weary of the
grayness of winter. <br />
The Ornamental Pear
trees on the boulevard in front of my house are already dropping their petals
on my lawn. Until my yard guy came to
mow yesterday, my yard was a blaze of color… yellow dandelions and blue violets
vying for attention, dusted with the white petals from the pear trees. Life is good. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-13585632270871164792015-02-16T17:34:00.000-08:002015-02-16T17:34:07.528-08:00Log Cabins in Springtime and Kielbasa with Kraut<div class="MsoNormal">
Grandpa Charlie used to say we were British, Scotch, and a
few other nationalities, with “a little bit of fighting German.” Well, today that little bit of German is
manifesting in my kitchen. Yesterday
afternoon, I made a modern version of Peach Kuchen. Last night, I put some sourdough rye bread
fixings in a bowl to “ferment” overnight, and this morning it has been fashioned
into a round loaf that is raising in a casserole as I write. There is a pot of Kielbasa Sausage with
Sauerkraut simmering on the stovetop, sharing its aroma bountifully. I put a few cut up potatoes in it to make a
one-pot meal. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFJzCP5hcNk3unlmJsW8uVRm749Ay7ppkGs_KRzl08A_RwaCtAo2JfdV5LqTcSW4HCRAyKCMv6tk17QnqYg6hBzaQh1zTF7dKMLZUVPNKyz-sIVrh43-XeP9epIQTjS7KaSSawG1ngQY/s1600/kielbasa+kraut+and+taters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFJzCP5hcNk3unlmJsW8uVRm749Ay7ppkGs_KRzl08A_RwaCtAo2JfdV5LqTcSW4HCRAyKCMv6tk17QnqYg6hBzaQh1zTF7dKMLZUVPNKyz-sIVrh43-XeP9epIQTjS7KaSSawG1ngQY/s1600/kielbasa+kraut+and+taters.jpg" height="290" width="320" /></a></div>
The snow is falling softly
still, as it has been all day. I think
we've got about 3” of light snow on the ground at this point, and the “winter
storm” is forecast to continue until tomorrow morning. The storm actually feels more like a lamb
than a lion, but it is persistent, so the accumulation will be
storm-worthy. I’m happy to be snugly
inside, enjoying the winter wonderland through the picture window. <br />
<br />
It’s a good day to be seated at my sewing machine,
with visions of sugarplums dancing in my hands… soft and spring-tinted pastels
marching across my design wall in a version of Fons and Porters “Cabin Rose”, a
You-Tube video I came across that caught my eye.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv9RYJ5RM-xHoGe4GGW1vQVP0gPGziVvOSFwZBmOvCOgBA5UzfpFIyFE4Ua_RqwvMWOiRB9pdOrhDfFhZSPQMeJUBb43yJ2nXLryta3tC5SGUb2cSza7E5TLuyOvV_WdjarDHz1FHsfms/s1600/cabin+strips+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv9RYJ5RM-xHoGe4GGW1vQVP0gPGziVvOSFwZBmOvCOgBA5UzfpFIyFE4Ua_RqwvMWOiRB9pdOrhDfFhZSPQMeJUBb43yJ2nXLryta3tC5SGUb2cSza7E5TLuyOvV_WdjarDHz1FHsfms/s1600/cabin+strips+-+Copy.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Feb3vnmohP0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Feb3vnmohP0">v=Feb3vnmohP0</a>
. </div>
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Here’s the video, so I won’t give you
a tutorial, other than to say I cut 2-1/2” pieces to form the bottom of the “cabin”
block, and cut the strips for the “logs” into segments that measured for each
round: 2-1/2” and 4-1/2”, 4-1/2” and 6-1/2”,
and 6-1/2” and 8-1/2”. Two logs make up
each round of this half-cabin block, shown at right.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVMOyjb9WPvOtrDHZsTYO7PhhvDhPcqyKZFiy-Dx_qeSNpvjT49gAo-8cge3eADg_86KaV5tqNZg5axSIgCA_7El9-yIrPdwVwzf8AH0Al6iWJU1baqEUDTnGWoccTaF9RMQEv3F-t78/s1600/cabin+rose+blociks+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVMOyjb9WPvOtrDHZsTYO7PhhvDhPcqyKZFiy-Dx_qeSNpvjT49gAo-8cge3eADg_86KaV5tqNZg5axSIgCA_7El9-yIrPdwVwzf8AH0Al6iWJU1baqEUDTnGWoccTaF9RMQEv3F-t78/s1600/cabin+rose+blociks+-+Copy.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Here is the photo of my design wall, shown<br />
below, with the first 32 blocks sewn. I have not yet decided if I will make several
baby quilts, a large throw, or a bed-sized quilt. I love the soft pastels that combine to create
a quilt very relaxing to look at. It feels like springtime, even though the storm outside tells me it isn't! Recipes
for the bread and kuchen follow.<br />
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<br /></div>
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<b>Sourdough Rye Bread:</b></div>
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1 cup sourdough starter, 3 cups bread flour, 1-1/2 c water,
2 Tbsp. sugar (or honey or molasses)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mix well, cover bowl and let stand overnight. The dough should be doubled by morning.</div>
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In the morning, add: <o:p></o:p></div>
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1-1/2 tsp. salt <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 cup rye flour plus additional rye flour to make <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4VJShN-qgYsn20TWCetGqIAJcQ6o0DI582WP0-CRbp_N0DVov99Hpnrg3pA6XRiMpEVDt-L3mzMZJ_O1RA1ftguwgF-h7KnW2O5e1W1sX3hF0QALAsdAfO-Vrjxhb8fAcOef5e9mnrA/s1600/BREAD+DOUGH+IN+BOWL+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4VJShN-qgYsn20TWCetGqIAJcQ6o0DI582WP0-CRbp_N0DVov99Hpnrg3pA6XRiMpEVDt-L3mzMZJ_O1RA1ftguwgF-h7KnW2O5e1W1sX3hF0QALAsdAfO-Vrjxhb8fAcOef5e9mnrA/s1600/BREAD+DOUGH+IN+BOWL+-+Copy.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
a soft but
wet dough. I used about 1-1/2 cups, but
that varies depending on humidity and moisture in your flour. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqD5nZtcVXfqascPNjVtlYh9FM0-5Tg3qOLLiKrD9-VDR33ge6QK7Cgi5Kpt4RXBtBwOCbn9wc5Qz5ub97pad__Eis5bn-jc2Em6fITh8cgL3AbEGRAkCEhvQKkF6FNt9iBmaGp5ABDk/s1600/kneaded+loaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqD5nZtcVXfqascPNjVtlYh9FM0-5Tg3qOLLiKrD9-VDR33ge6QK7Cgi5Kpt4RXBtBwOCbn9wc5Qz5ub97pad__Eis5bn-jc2Em6fITh8cgL3AbEGRAkCEhvQKkF6FNt9iBmaGp5ABDk/s1600/kneaded+loaf.jpg" height="164" width="200" /></a>Put dough in a greased bowl, shown on left.
Raise until doubled, about 2 hours. Scrape out onto a well- oiled board or
countertop and fold over itself several times, as shown on right.
Round up, place on a sheet of parchment paper, sprinkle with flour, and
put in a casserole bowl to raise for about 2 more hours, until doubled again, pictured below. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEh2PcDnNmG1WNGP1N0AH6UMSRyZIeLTHOk_O3ECzkobPuGIcftbBRZXFMbi8eiaVbeEDd1TtwpeQ2i_JsFHXwIvYH6RihSTUeozeXnrlU3IId1PgzHF2YTua3wRK5E8WL7IlGH_1yx0/s1600/raised+loaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEh2PcDnNmG1WNGP1N0AH6UMSRyZIeLTHOk_O3ECzkobPuGIcftbBRZXFMbi8eiaVbeEDd1TtwpeQ2i_JsFHXwIvYH6RihSTUeozeXnrlU3IId1PgzHF2YTua3wRK5E8WL7IlGH_1yx0/s1600/raised+loaf.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
Heat another covered casserole or Dutch oven
in a 450 degree oven for 20 minutes.
Slash top of dough with a very sharp knife. Transfer the dough,
parchment paper and all, to the hot casserole.
Cover and bake for 15 minutes.<br />
Remove cover and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Remove from parchment and cool bread on a
wire rack for at least 30 minutes before cutting. Notice I did not add any additional yeast to
this recipe… my starter is so active I didn't need to. It made a large loaf, with a crisp, chewy
crust and an interior that is tasty and hearty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxGRv2QHGR13mSeMFNPqOWv-uD9LW5YIBz2kgPg941yvSJTar_BQ-i6w9P6ASxrHoSWXcqYXNBFoDRj6oacOG9WaaLAWtQSdSnx4oXLgJ9UF936L4q2tu9tzvKqwdLKYZY1YuY2_RZDU/s1600/baked+loaf+in+casserole+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxGRv2QHGR13mSeMFNPqOWv-uD9LW5YIBz2kgPg941yvSJTar_BQ-i6w9P6ASxrHoSWXcqYXNBFoDRj6oacOG9WaaLAWtQSdSnx4oXLgJ9UF936L4q2tu9tzvKqwdLKYZY1YuY2_RZDU/s1600/baked+loaf+in+casserole+-+Copy.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgLqFPaHbtk902XlVDAR1THU1Q-rR375CnRimCbSM0fM0-n1d0ERWNk8HwlWpzPwU7rDXFBd60IoI5xeSLKScjzPh_UFNjEVwZcIdLjV_JWhEW64yrY9weHCOQ9_-ou89LMpqmgfhpzo/s1600/cooling+loaf+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgLqFPaHbtk902XlVDAR1THU1Q-rR375CnRimCbSM0fM0-n1d0ERWNk8HwlWpzPwU7rDXFBd60IoI5xeSLKScjzPh_UFNjEVwZcIdLjV_JWhEW64yrY9weHCOQ9_-ou89LMpqmgfhpzo/s1600/cooling+loaf+-+Copy.jpg" height="173" width="200" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrxcxxdNDoFnetMUjzzPSE9VuaFWyrCsngxyEpdJDfwFRbhme216DpUHjI_yo9Mo5h_c8BFcNBx0x7nDbvO5pCqZriZ73KpuPJTZtaf5bNjXvEVKUjR-2rGqMdnLJsdVvltLGlgOIa88/s1600/sourdough+rye+baked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrxcxxdNDoFnetMUjzzPSE9VuaFWyrCsngxyEpdJDfwFRbhme216DpUHjI_yo9Mo5h_c8BFcNBx0x7nDbvO5pCqZriZ73KpuPJTZtaf5bNjXvEVKUjR-2rGqMdnLJsdVvltLGlgOIa88/s1600/sourdough+rye+baked.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></div>
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My sister, Doreen, gave me this recipe for Apple Kuchen, but
I changed it a bit and made it into my
own version, with peaches instead of apples.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Peach Kuchen:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 c. sugar (may add ½ cup more if you like it sweeter)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 c. butter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cream sugar, salt and butter in a mixer until fluffy. Add:<o:p></o:p></div>
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3 eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 tsp. vanilla<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beat well. Add:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo5B3WTNU1fl_CIhKaScwkfriYPabvFm4zVQ2pZE46j_WCa72ZgcceTxK8yZXw5wDKO818j-8s_90E7agalnpCY_pBXfI5OAbD_vMtj46zgkIropzgz_zVpCK65AYYS7c3J1bfjED0Bs/s1600/peach+kuchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo5B3WTNU1fl_CIhKaScwkfriYPabvFm4zVQ2pZE46j_WCa72ZgcceTxK8yZXw5wDKO818j-8s_90E7agalnpCY_pBXfI5OAbD_vMtj46zgkIropzgz_zVpCK65AYYS7c3J1bfjED0Bs/s1600/peach+kuchen.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a>2 c. flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spread 2/3 of batter in a greased 9 x 13 pan. Top with:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 can peach pie filling, spread over filling. (May substitute any flavor pie filling you
choose)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spoon remainder of dough over peach filling. Spread over filling as much as you can, with
a butter knife or spatula. Sprinkle
topping over the top.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Topping:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tblsp. butter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tblsp. flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 tsp. cinnamon<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1/4 c. brown sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bake 40-45 minutes at 350 until golden brown.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are you ready for an ethnic meal? What are your favorites? Years ago… MANY years ago... a couple of
friends joined us and we wives made ethnic dinners, complete with menus we
printed out. We dressed up, and ate by
candlelight… as close to a romantic evening as couples with little kids can get! I will always remember our Chinese meal, and
my first attempt at making fried rice. I
added the eggs to the rice and heated it, instead of scrambling them on the
side… and I ended up with a dish my friend’s husband referred to as... please pass the Chinese
Oatmeal. Remember that, Paula? We had some good times, although in hindsight
we really didn't get very adventurous, but outside of the Chinese Oatmeal, most
of what we made was delicious. Every
time I make Fried Rice now, I think of that dinner and smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-31702126944597997382015-02-16T13:19:00.000-08:002015-02-16T13:29:39.158-08:00Sourdough English Muffins<div class="MsoNormal">
The temperatures are dropping and the cold wind blows! It’s a good excuse to heat the kitchen up
with bread baking. I used to have
sourdough going most of the time, but I haven’t done that for a few years. Fruit flies love sourdough, and they invaded my
house. I lost that war, so the sourdough
went out the door, followed by the fruit flies. Lately, I've been
making Artisan breads and they begin to sour naturally as they sit overnight,
so I got the idea of keeping about a half cup of the soured dough in the bowl,
and just adding to it for the next loaf.
After a week or more, the dough is nice and sour and makes a delicious,
crusty bread with a tender, moist center. My late husband, Ted, used to be
especially fond of the sourdough breadsticks, and when we were dating, he had a
habit of sticking a few in his shirt pocket when he stopped by my house on his
way to work, which prompted little sister Sherri to quip her version of Mae
West’s classic remark, "Is that a breadstick in your pocket, or are you
glad to see me?” My shy guy giggled and
blushed for many years after that when I made breadsticks, remembering her
remark!!! Sourdough has been around for
thousands of years, and was once the only method people used to leaven their
bread. Ted told me that the old
prospectors always made their bread with sourdough starter, and that's why they
were referred to as "Sourdoughs".
I read online (and we ALL know everything we read online is true, don't we?) that San Francisco Sourdough is world famous and claims to
be the best made... but in blind taste tests, another city in California made
the best San Francisco sourdough bread.
San Francisco demanded a re-test, and the second tasting revealed the
same results! Now you will have the
means to create your own masterpieces of sourdough baking. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When using sourdough, do not use metal containers or spoons...
glass or even plastic bowls and wooden spoons are fine. The dough has to be "fed" once a
week, and if it isn't used weekly, store it in the refrigerator. Whole grained breads contain more "wild
yeast" than refined flour, so you might add a bit of rye or whole wheat
flour to your starter to make it more active.
If desired, you can add a bit of extra yeast when making your recipes,
to make a lighter dough that still has a good "sour" flavor. We like light breads, so I usually add a bit
of yeast to my recipes, although the hard-core Sourdoughs would cringe at the
thought. Starter will last forever if
you continue to use it and renew it regularly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To make a simple starter:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Tbsp. active dry yeast<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1/2 cup water, 110 degrees<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soak yeast in water for 7 minutes OR add
2 Tablespoons Instant yeast (do not soak) to the flour.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 cups warm milk, not hot<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3/4 cup sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62TeV0nHQxiduaHQDEoSfMbOm6__0O40t3jScWZAxUMfa59AEckKnaGjJ-KhLgYX0td8zYohotRBq_pYOz2zTAcX22pZaET9pwJz0sJlgjLF-7r1uozPps0F31Lfc-MxfvmoCLWSrZzE/s1600/muffin+batter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62TeV0nHQxiduaHQDEoSfMbOm6__0O40t3jScWZAxUMfa59AEckKnaGjJ-KhLgYX0td8zYohotRBq_pYOz2zTAcX22pZaET9pwJz0sJlgjLF-7r1uozPps0F31Lfc-MxfvmoCLWSrZzE/s1600/muffin+batter.jpg" height="293" width="320" /></a>Mix with wooden or plastic spoon. Keep it in crockery, glass or plastic... no
metal!!! Let starter sit for 3 or 4 days
before using. The lid should be loose
over the starter… a cotton tea towel works fine as a cover. Keep it in a nice, warm place. Stir at least once daily. Every 5 days or so, feed the starter with 1
cup water, 1 cup all-purpose flour, and 1 Tablespoon of sugar. Mix well, and let sit at room temperature
until it bubbles and raises a bit. If
you use the starter twice a week, you can leave it at room temperature,
otherwise refrigerate it so it doesn't spoil.
The starter can also be frozen. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because I have the soured Artisan bread dough, I will use
that as my starter instead of making this starter, but used the same recipes
for making the breads. I added 2 cups of
warm milk to about 2 cups of my soured Artisan bread dough, 2 cups of bread
flour, ½ cup Rye flour, 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast, and 1 Tablespoon
granulated sugar. I mixed it well and
covered it with a clean tea towel and let it sit overnight. Sourdough before sitting overnight is shown above,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sourdough English
Muffins:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 cup starter</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 cup warm milk</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 to 2 cups flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tablespoon sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mix well, adding only a cup of flour at first to make a
soft, wet dough, and adding more flour as necessary. I find my flour is very dry this time of year
and a bit over one cup was enough. Let
stand at room temperature until bubbly, from an hour or two to overnight, if
you wish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add to dough mixture:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 teaspoon instant yeast<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7Kwp2OKZQjORjkK32Nnv2dfdqWSD6QQZBkPFjCVe66cXRrhm18Lerdcz8eJnEDDRpHZWM_3EGO2n9zRnqrriKsbWnP8M_drV1zOdZfiGtXssXHVp0OGxql60G8AeS9A63evXswfrhd8/s1600/cutting+muffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7Kwp2OKZQjORjkK32Nnv2dfdqWSD6QQZBkPFjCVe66cXRrhm18Lerdcz8eJnEDDRpHZWM_3EGO2n9zRnqrriKsbWnP8M_drV1zOdZfiGtXssXHVp0OGxql60G8AeS9A63evXswfrhd8/s1600/cutting+muffins.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>1/2 teaspoon baking soda<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tablespoon Olive oil<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Up to 1 cup all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKtLA2YnwsE2NrRAnfV6k9GjQ4DIqfFCcRqw5Kt3Orrc3_Ex4Rw-tceH8sUi5BALHPHGO8SVSo32OoAjN7ZOxTU4pO-0dMCUqhmLoj63RZIE49y69jvDQvRzwi-wVHYE_lDioY3_n_kI/s1600/muffins+raising.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKtLA2YnwsE2NrRAnfV6k9GjQ4DIqfFCcRqw5Kt3Orrc3_Ex4Rw-tceH8sUi5BALHPHGO8SVSo32OoAjN7ZOxTU4pO-0dMCUqhmLoj63RZIE49y69jvDQvRzwi-wVHYE_lDioY3_n_kI/s1600/muffins+raising.jpg" height="135" width="200" /></a>Blend until smooth.
Knead in additional flour to make a dough that is soft but not
sticky. Let rest a few minutes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Roll out about 1/2 inch thick and cut into
rounds. (photo at right)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Place on baking sheet sprinkled
with cornmeal. Turn over to get a bit of
cornmeal on both sides. Let rise until
doubled. (photo above left)<o:p></o:p></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboc2-F9Xw0EydaSpUIRK5iaDdZ2r0aoeep7kKDrLXRPgLQ2kmmdop6gnpKNmvBDBtsOMpuxv3BpxwNnJcnfmQ0rhnz-rU4uUOZXi8kXECLEWhdUsk1IXyoQSSrWbZc9-ZzNAgLcPfMEk/s1600/muffins+on+griddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboc2-F9Xw0EydaSpUIRK5iaDdZ2r0aoeep7kKDrLXRPgLQ2kmmdop6gnpKNmvBDBtsOMpuxv3BpxwNnJcnfmQ0rhnz-rU4uUOZXi8kXECLEWhdUsk1IXyoQSSrWbZc9-ZzNAgLcPfMEk/s1600/muffins+on+griddle.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
Bake on dry griddle (I like
electric best, set at about 350 degrees) until golden on each side. Turn the muffins about 3 or 4 minutes after
they begin to cook so that both sides are flat.
If they bake too long on the first side, they will rise and get round on
top instead of being flat. They can be
turned again, after they begin to brown, to cook evenly on both sides. Refrigerate muffins that you don't eat that
day. Makes about 1 dozen English
Muffins. Breakfast tip: Slice muffin and toast lightly; fry an egg
(yolk broken), and a couple of slices of crisp bacon or a sausage patty, topped
with a slice of cheese for your own breakfast sandwich! Also delicious toasted or plain, with the jam
of your choice or honey.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMieJ9oh8HTqOnhfAxJTaClBq2CtB_Ad-Z987n_YppssYQtMDfUhMMZAozI4nraJ9mB_WIPwt42JbYYhEUx1hWzEgxs56Rh4W5V6-5KR_R2MY5MnjjGr1_ihLHyxS_TJiFNNMWKHeNeEI/s1600/sausage+and+cheese+muffin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMieJ9oh8HTqOnhfAxJTaClBq2CtB_Ad-Z987n_YppssYQtMDfUhMMZAozI4nraJ9mB_WIPwt42JbYYhEUx1hWzEgxs56Rh4W5V6-5KR_R2MY5MnjjGr1_ihLHyxS_TJiFNNMWKHeNeEI/s1600/sausage+and+cheese+muffin.jpg" height="179" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtUA3SppBRGyPQdW93U-7xH_dZdiK7gyjxbYZFPipTDGfmAUpg1wsWGGGb59XEt9QI3i2J4kk8U_2ihyphenhyphenRFMZDoSQf5-JALe9IKWXCHJDXG1zXnKeJOGxohsBi1U-Hk8g-J77RnEvkkW4/s1600/muffin+w+jam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtUA3SppBRGyPQdW93U-7xH_dZdiK7gyjxbYZFPipTDGfmAUpg1wsWGGGb59XEt9QI3i2J4kk8U_2ihyphenhyphenRFMZDoSQf5-JALe9IKWXCHJDXG1zXnKeJOGxohsBi1U-Hk8g-J77RnEvkkW4/s1600/muffin+w+jam.jpg" height="192" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyigzzRLJA4i9KghvIFTwT_j5k0DYf-Uz-CrcatNKgW444AYns5cJTG0bQL4KBeTeCrUbQJnNw98vpMk91cJxDmWZPs4x8KZF-PDlIQxI8A0Ujm5oJQW2TZKIrDoazbOC8gls73yixbg4/s1600/bacon+egg+cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyigzzRLJA4i9KghvIFTwT_j5k0DYf-Uz-CrcatNKgW444AYns5cJTG0bQL4KBeTeCrUbQJnNw98vpMk91cJxDmWZPs4x8KZF-PDlIQxI8A0Ujm5oJQW2TZKIrDoazbOC8gls73yixbg4/s1600/bacon+egg+cheese.jpg" height="280" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Speaking of honey, yesterday was Valentine’s Day… my
sweetheart has been gone for eight years, but my dear friend stopped by
yesterday with a gorgeous floral bouquet and a box of chocolate mints! She is also a widow, so I am her sweetheart
this year! It brightened my day, for
certain.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOfUZwuxCGQx8epHpQyOlWsH9J31bFwRQZfCU29psVWL4fQn2c1M5DuVCkIY4pypKNsMN3ig25o_z2riyHzCQ-bPVmAs4dOcsy5ihZbNMXoU1GaVs1Qpqrw27BZn7PzLMNLPoiaZM54Q/s1600/bouquet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZOfUZwuxCGQx8epHpQyOlWsH9J31bFwRQZfCU29psVWL4fQn2c1M5DuVCkIY4pypKNsMN3ig25o_z2riyHzCQ-bPVmAs4dOcsy5ihZbNMXoU1GaVs1Qpqrw27BZn7PzLMNLPoiaZM54Q/s1600/bouquet.jpg" height="271" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weather might be colder, but I’m rejoicing as the days
get longer! Now there is about an hour
more daylight in the evening, and that makes me happy. I don't know how much earlier daylight arrives, because I don't get up that early! The winter has been mild here in Cincinnati,
with our biggest snowfall having come before Thanksgiving, which is early
here. My daughter told me we may still
get a blizzard or two before we can claim it’s spring… and I think she jinxed
us! We are in the midst of a winter
storm warning… about 3” on the ground so far, and it’s supposed to continue
until tomorrow morning. I’m thankful that
I don’t have to go out and trudge through the snow! I can enjoy it from my family room window,
wrapped in a cozy quilt. I'm hoping you have a warm place you can watch it, too!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-19559168051302019312015-01-09T23:27:00.000-08:002015-01-09T23:27:27.400-08:00Who Wants Strudel?<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the things my children have been wanting to learn is
how to make Strudel. When I lived on the
Iron Range of Minnesota, an elderly friend taught me to make it. I have never found a recipe in any cookbook
that was made the same way as it was made up there in the North Country. My Aunt Betty made delicious Apple Strudel,
also, but not much of it got out of her house, with four sons and my uncle who
all loved it. My sons loved strudel so
much, they would volunteer to peel the apples if I would make it, and even sometimes
requested Apple Strudel instead of a birthday cake. I remember them coming in from their paper
routes at 6:00 in the morning and peeling apples on those days I agreed to make
it… before apple peeler/corers were available, or if they were available, they
were beyond what we could afford. So
this Christmas, my youngest son and his wife had a strudel lesson on their agenda. I must say, it was especially fun for me, as
all I had to do was sit my behind in a chair and give instructions! Donavon complained several times about his
back aching from standing and kneading the dough (we made two strudels and each
needs to be kneaded for 15 or 20 minutes) and he proclaimed a new respect for
all the times I made them strudel when they were children! He had no idea it was so labor-intensive! Of course, I sat adorned with my martyr’s
crown in humble acceptance of his praise. When it came time to stretch the second strudel,
Alyssa pushed him aside and did it herself. The photo below shows the strudel dough when she had it partially stretched.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkEefsGK5lRRXGHu7OylSPAzCKKmwufi6HUwhZOQAv7rBhozFM80FUd8g0PbdB3yllz528yu07oP4wROrG8jRhM8nDQupX2j99951eOar9SttOsgf496QeZLSxpzMu23LXsn6_ZJU22Q/s1600/stretching+strudel+dough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkEefsGK5lRRXGHu7OylSPAzCKKmwufi6HUwhZOQAv7rBhozFM80FUd8g0PbdB3yllz528yu07oP4wROrG8jRhM8nDQupX2j99951eOar9SttOsgf496QeZLSxpzMu23LXsn6_ZJU22Q/s1600/stretching+strudel+dough.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><b>Strudel:</b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mix in large bowl:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 cups flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Tablespoons oil<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 teaspoons vinegar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 ¼ cup warm water<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I now put the ingredients in a food processor and zap it
quickly several times just until the dough forms a ball, but it can be mixed in
a bowl by hand, as well. Do <b>NOT</b> overmix
in the food processor, or the dough will break down and will not stretch
properly. Knead on lightly floured board
for 15 minutes until dough is no longer sticky and very soft and elastic. Add as little flour as necessary to keep it
from being sticky. As you knead the
dough, it will become less sticky so don’t be tempted to add too much flour. Put dough in a bowl that has a bit of oil in
the bottom. Cover strudel dough
completely with oil. The oil can be
returned to the bottle after you remove the dough the next day. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap and set
in a warm place overnight, or at least 8 hours, until dough rises and is soft
and pliable. Cover table with a large
tablecloth that has been sprinkled with flour.
Lift dough out of oil and let drain over bowl for a moment. Put dough in center of table. Begin to carefully pull dough outward from
center, and then using the palm of your hand and being careful not to tear the dough,
stretch dough out to hang over the table on all sides. The dough will be very thin and you can see
where the thick spots are and can put your hand in those areas to gently stretch
it thinner. Let the stretched strudel dry
for a few minutes. Melt ½ cup
butter. Drizzle over stretched dough and
then carefully pat it around so all dough is buttered. Don’t try to rub it, as you could tear the
dough. Dough will be fragile at this
point, so work quickly and carefully. For Apple Strudel, sprinkle buttered dough
with crushed cornflake crumbs or dried bread crumbs, to absorb some of the
apple juice. Skip this step of crumbs
for the Cheese Strudel. Spread with filling and tear off thick edges that are
hanging over the table edge. Roll up,
jelly roll style, lifting the edge of the tablecloth and gently shaking it to
begin rolling. Carefully coil strudel in
shallow roaster or large baking pan.
Drizzle with another ½ cup melted butter.
Bake at 350 degrees about 40 to 60 minutes, until golden brown and
filling is cooked. Baste the top a time or two with the butter and juices that accumulate around the strudel. The strudel will puff
up somewhat, but fall a bit as it cools.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNr-GdyQ9_o75w9ab1s02IXR7d5mqAE-YwMADwg4r6o2llaeZ2KYkspultqHcByk-qqhOE-NPDcGMHBYkegb-v3upbE94Mbx2iaO3OcWC7EEPNDPMilYNr7kkKhf5ZuWKm06lwAhdQEU/s1600/Cheese+strudel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNr-GdyQ9_o75w9ab1s02IXR7d5mqAE-YwMADwg4r6o2llaeZ2KYkspultqHcByk-qqhOE-NPDcGMHBYkegb-v3upbE94Mbx2iaO3OcWC7EEPNDPMilYNr7kkKhf5ZuWKm06lwAhdQEU/s1600/Cheese+strudel.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Cheese filling: (Shown at right)<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
3# small curd cottage cheese, drained and rinsed in large
colander</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 eggs, beaten slightly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
½ cup sour cream<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 to 2 cups sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Tablespoon dill weed OR a handful of chopped fresh chives<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Apple filling: (Shown below)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peel and slice 3# apples<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sprinkle buttered, stretched strudel dough with dried
homemade bread crumbs or crushed cornflake crumbs. Spread apples over strudel. Sprinkle with about 1 cup brown sugar (may
substitute white granulated sugar).
Sprinkle with cinnamon. May add
chopped walnuts.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM6T8F53uG02GogTr4Or0hiFwvQI6TpC6HZcVrig7dxxs2itgvCX-5zyKba8gDZNCKLPkoFT3VHfv_BGkKvRAw3MtGRl2bD2jeqtpenqowT1rajSxROLIYT4CJIdFuHKhDmfqQl2d2aqQ/s1600/apple+strudel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM6T8F53uG02GogTr4Or0hiFwvQI6TpC6HZcVrig7dxxs2itgvCX-5zyKba8gDZNCKLPkoFT3VHfv_BGkKvRAw3MtGRl2bD2jeqtpenqowT1rajSxROLIYT4CJIdFuHKhDmfqQl2d2aqQ/s1600/apple+strudel.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p>Donavon, ever the perfectionist, was being a true
worry-wort, sure that it wasn’t going to turn out as good as mine used to be. My table here is much bigger and the strudel
cannot be hung over the edges of the table, and he was sure it wasn’t
working. After stretching one batch of
dough and worrying that it wasn’t going to be like mine, Alyssa firmly pushed
him aside and said she would do the second one herself. It was a good thing, because then Donavon was
free to snap a few photos… not as many as we should have had, but hopefully
sufficient to make your mouth water. When
the strudels were baked and cool enough to cut, Donavon absolutely beamed as he
took his first bite and realized it was EXACTLY like my strudel, and tasted
just as good as he remembered. Middle son
Craig and youngest daughter Tricia were also here to enjoy the fruits of their
labor! It was a very good day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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My neighbor, Rose, taught me about making the cheese
strudel, and it was one of the things that we always made when the Chives in
the garden began to grow in the springtime.
When I married Ted, he taught me to make it with Dill Weed, the way his
mother used to make it. My children and
I talked about how it would be interesting to sprinkle the cheese topping lightly
with fresh raspberries or blueberries before rolling it up. It will be fun to experiment with those
additions. Now, with many of my beloved
friends and my husband gone, these recipes help to keep them alive and close to
me in thought. I shared many good times
with them, and those thoughts are my company now when the nights are long and
lonely.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of times gone by, when having their strudel lesson
at Christmas, my children were coveting<o:p></o:p></div>
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my 2-cup flour sifter they remembered
from their childhood… Donavon searched in stores and online and was unable to
find anything like it… until he stumbled upon a couple on e-bay. Who knew they are vintage items and no longer being made??? He bought one for himself and had one sent to
his sister, also. It delights me that
they want to have these vintage items in their own homes… things that remind
them of their childhood. Older daughter Michelle wants to learn how to make strudel, also. She lives in the area, so we will get together some weekend and she will have her lesson. Maybe we can try one of the berry additions to the cheese strudel when we make it together. What vintage items do you have in your kitchen that cannot be replaced? It makes me wonder why they stop making items that are so much handier than the modern things for sale now.Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-29133104578142337982015-01-03T23:19:00.000-08:002015-01-03T23:19:25.966-08:00Happy New Year! Food for the Soul and Body, too.<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks to my DVR, I just finished watching the Billy Joel
tribute that aired last night, with him receiving the Library of Congress Gershwin award for popular
song… what a fantastic evening of music!
And the big surprise was (to me, at least)… the talented Kevin Spacey can
play harmonica and sing, as well as being one of my favorite character actors! This was a real treat… music is food for the soul, with words that
tell a story and tunes we can replay in our minds over and over again. So much of the music today seems just noise
to my aging ears… I appreciate the new artists who sing and play melodies that
are uplifting instead of depressing or jarring to my senses. When I was young, artists made appearances all
over the country in small venues, and we had 45 rpm records and radio… and
occasionally they were seen on television, like the Ed Sullivan Show. Artists reach millions more listeners now,
with the internet and you-tube, but the internet also fosters much
misinformation. It makes me think of how
the written word once was considered “gospel”, and we youth were guided to realize
that anything can be said and written, but it doesn't necessarily make it
truth. And even if it IS truth for some,
it may not be truth for everyone. I try
to keep an open mind, but it saddens me when young adults are drawn into the mind
of the masses, which can easily mask the ability to think for themselves. And it seems to me that we have a need to
label everything… from generations called baby boomers to millennials to
generation X, Y or Z and illnesses like autism, Asperger’s, and so on. If someone doesn't relate easily to other
people, they might be pointed out as having a mental illness that prevents them
from relating. One of my friends
laughingly said her family was dysfunctional by today’s standards, but they
didn't know it and were happy anyway! Life
used to be simpler then… without labels, when our interaction was with our
friends who had the same parental guidance as we did! We weren't exposed to too much too soon, and
I think that was a good thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Christmas is past… I spent weeks wrapping gifts, literally,
and boxes for each family lined my dining room wall. This photo was taken after my oldest son had already taken their boxes from the room at <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanksgiving.
I have a large family, and I think I have a tendency to overdo things a
bit. Every year I resolve not to do
that, but it just seems to happen somewhere midst the holiday spirit! A new year is beginning… 2015, with new
ideas, new music, and new labels. Our
world has become smaller… through my internet quilting lists, I have friends in
South Africa, England, France, Australia, and many other countries. I will most likely never meet them, but we share bits of the fabric of our lives with each other. Instead of mailing a letter and the recipient
getting the news days later, we can send an instant e-mail or Skype and see our loved
ones as we talk to them, wherever they are.
Although the ease of internet connections brings with it some things to
be wary of, I cannot imagine my life without that link to my friends and
family. Long distance telephone calls
that used to be expensive and rare, now are free for most people, and my
children in other states call me almost daily, as I call my own parents.
It is a good thing, progress, in many ways. Sometimes I wonder what will come next… I've
already seen a lot of changes in my 72 years!
I remember my grandfather telling me that when I was a child, and now I
understand what he was saying. My oldest
son said to me about 30 years ago… “Do you realize that these times are MY
‘good old days’?” This year, three of my
children will be in their 50’s. I wonder
where the years have gone…<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The holidays were fabulous this year! It seemed we never stopped having family
gatherings, and that is always what I most look forward to. One of the hits this year was a recipe my
internet friend, Sara, told me about, and my family loved it… right down to
4-year old Lucas! Here’s my version of
it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /><b>
Cream of Mushroom/Prime Rib Soup:</b></div>
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Melt 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter in a soup pot.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Slice 1 package (8 oz.) Baby Bella mushrooms and sauté in
the butter over low heat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When mushrooms are cooked, add ½ cup flour to the pot to
make a rue, leaving the mushrooms and butter in the pot. Stir to incorporate the flour into the
butter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 6 cups of milk, stirring in a little at a time, heating
over low heat until the soup thickens a bit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon
garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dice 1 nice slice of leftover prime rib and add that to the
soup.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stir in 2 cups of whipping cream <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cover and continue to cook on low heat, stirring
occasionally so it does not scorch. It
can be made ahead and transferred to a slow cooker set on warm, if you
prefer. It’s definitely not low fat, but
it is delicious! If you don’t like
mushrooms, it probably isn’t the soup for you, however. I think it would be wonderful without the
prime rib, also. It only takes a few
minutes to make it, and it can be ready to eat in about 15 minutes. Very good served with a crusty artisan bread
or fresh garlic breadsticks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And in case you are in the mood for a little something sweet
to top it off, try this. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Dreamsicle Salad: </b>(but it’s really more like a dessert!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 small packages of orange jello, made with 2 cups of
boiling water, stirring well until jello is dissolved.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add 1 cup of ice and stir in. Chill in the refrigerator until the jello
begins to thicken slightly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pour jello into a large mixing bowl and beat in 2 small
packages of dry vanilla instant pudding mix.
Beat until it is smooth and pudding mix is thoroughly incorporated. Fold in one large container (16 oz.) of
thawed frozen topping, such as Cool Whip, and two 15 oz. cans of mandarin
oranges, drained. Cover and refrigerate. This is a double batch, but you can halve the
ingredients and make a smaller batch, if you don’t have many to feed. However… it keeps well in the refrigerator
for several days and makes a tasty snack.
I think it could easily be put into a graham cracker crust and served as
a pie, also, but it’s very good just plain, and is a nice, light treat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The folding tote bags were a big hit with everyone, and a
lot of fun to make. I think I’ll make a
few up to have handy for gifts when I need one in a hurry. The Advent banners were enjoyed by the
grandchildren, as well. My oldest son
laughed as he recounted this story to me:
Charlotte’s 6<sup>th</sup> birthday was on December 22<sup>nd</sup>, and
they had birthday cake that evening at her family party. Quentin, age 9, asked Mark if they could
still have their Advent candy, since they’d already had an ample supply of
sugar. Ava, age 13, instantly reacted,
telling Quentin he should not ask because then they might be told no! My guess is they still had their Advent
candy, along with the birthday cake. One
of the gifts I sent those grandchildren was their own snack mat with matching
napkin, assorted hot chocolate mixes, and their very own mug… stuffed with
candy! The gift all three were most
excited about and thanked me for first was… the CANDY MUG! I think it must be in the Grandma’s Rule Book
that we are allowed to spoil our grandchildren!
If you haven’t got a grandchild to spoil, see if you can find someone
who will share theirs with you. Happy
New Year, my friends and family… may you have your best year yet!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-86767156455888875492014-12-21T02:20:00.000-08:002014-12-21T02:20:38.288-08:00I’ve got a Secret… Fat Quarter Folding Totes<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve got a Secret… Fat Quarter Folding Totes: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, during the holiday hiatus of many shows, the Game Show
Network has old reruns of I've Got A Secret and What’s My Line. They aren't THAT old… I've Got A Secret is
the “new” version of the show, with Steve Allen hosting, and the one I watched
was from 1961. It’s hard to believe that
it’s been over 50 years since that show originally aired! In the fall of 1961, I became a mother. My firstborn child was born on 9-11… and that
date now has a completely different memory attached to it, since the bombing of
the Twin Towers in New York. Times have
changed so much since the 1960’s… hairstyles, clothing fashions... when women wore
undergarments that drastically changed their body shapes! Waists were cinched in, girdles held tummies
flat, and bras were uplifting and transformed breasts into pointed objects… and
remember nylon stockings with garter belts?
No wonder it took us so long to get dressed. Women wore dresses
in the 60’s. Now, it’s unique to see a
woman in a dress, in this era of comfortable pants and elastic waists that expand
as our waistlines grow. Men’s lapels
were wide, and so were their ties. Today,
as I brushed my curls out, I realized that my hairstyle now is much the same as
it was in 1960 in my graduation photo.
The ratted hair and beehive hairdos came later, when I was busy raising
toddlers and had little time for worrying about following fashion. I've got a secret of my own… the “Real” me is
that 19 year old young woman hiding inside me, that no one knows about or
sees… but me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently, I found this website: <a href="http://zaaberry.blogspot.com/2011/05/tote-tutorial-totorial.html">http://zaaberry.blogspot.com/2011/05/tote-tutorial-totorial.html</a>
and saw her tutorial for the fold-up tote bag. (Check out her tutorials… she has some other
cute ideas!) I thought I could make it
from fat quarters… I have a lot of "mystery box" fat quarters that don’t fit well into my quilting ideas, but they make cute and colorful bibs and
other small projects. I incorporated
some changes for my own tutorial that make it even more to my liking!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This tote takes about 5 minutes to do the serging and about 30
minutes to sew the rest of the bag, This
does not count cutting the pieces, however.
By sewing several at once, the time per bag can be lessened a bit, if
you do them assembly-line fashion. Now,
bear in mind that I have slowed down in my old age! You may be able to make one faster than I
can!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Each tote takes two fat quarters: one for the main part and one for the band
and straps. Ironing the fat quarters before cutting is advisable, as the
folds may prevent accurate cutting. If you have a serger, it works great for joining the pieces,
since the bag is not lined. Alternately,
French seams will also look neat on the inside of the bag, or you can zig-zag
the seam to enclose it. Cut off all selvages.
Fat quarters vary a bit in size; some are 18” x 21” and some are 18” x
22”. Cut the main color fat quarter to
measure 16” x 22” (or 21”). Cut two
pieces from the main color, 16 by 11, or
16” x 10-1/2”, if the fat quarter measures 18” X 21”. 16” is going to be the width of the tote. The smaller measurement will be the height of
the main part of the tote.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next, cut the bands and straps from the contrasting fat
quarter. With the fabric doubled, cut
two strips 4” x 22” for the straps.
There should be 10” x 22” remaining.
Lay it flat on the cutting board and cut it 16” long, or the same length
as the width of the body of the tote bag, so the result is a piece 10” x 16”. Cut it into two 5”x 16” pieces. This is for the band at the top of the main
color.</div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut a 6” length of round elastic. This will be for the closure. Position the two ends of the elastic at the top
center of the main color on the front of the bag, forming a loop, and stitch
across it several times to secure it well.
When the band is joined to the main color, the elastic loop will be
between the two pieces.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Join the band to the main body, front and back. There are now two pieces, approximately 16” x
1 6”. Press this seam down and stitch it
in place a scant ¼” from the seam so the seam allowance is secured on the
inside. Join front to back on both sides
and across the bottom. Again, if you don’t serge the seams, edge them
with a zig-zag stitch or do a French seam to prevent them from raveling.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPDuOjJnwOr3JuctC6dhRsGO1-HMkzlVjszosQHmCgQNWL5vifJLa1z-BQk4HA-nq14dlhgqIr4g75HKiplYxtA7kTzo2trA14Aot-A1RfuZ72wG6ncLjlqIZn6c_80OYZtcuiBO_p9bk/s1600/stitching+edge+down.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPDuOjJnwOr3JuctC6dhRsGO1-HMkzlVjszosQHmCgQNWL5vifJLa1z-BQk4HA-nq14dlhgqIr4g75HKiplYxtA7kTzo2trA14Aot-A1RfuZ72wG6ncLjlqIZn6c_80OYZtcuiBO_p9bk/s1600/stitching+edge+down.jpg" height="200" width="180" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Serge (or fold under ¼”) the top of the bag. Fold under about 3/4” to the inside. Stitch along the bottom of the fold and again
near the top of the bag so that the folded portion is stitched down on the top
and bottom. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMOxvApzFDEOrhF5V8TKkK89s5K4qI_JA6hAWZFrhcb2W7jqHMtiGGypfTdP5Cc-oJkZfoHkhATNUwrK4dlRp018DhkqrOq53T-epBeO2F83-j4dwni4ohaArsq5dFfMassTuCYb4qJI/s1600/strap+sides+folded+in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMOxvApzFDEOrhF5V8TKkK89s5K4qI_JA6hAWZFrhcb2W7jqHMtiGGypfTdP5Cc-oJkZfoHkhATNUwrK4dlRp018DhkqrOq53T-epBeO2F83-j4dwni4ohaArsq5dFfMassTuCYb4qJI/s1600/strap+sides+folded+in.jpg" height="200" width="198" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2AEY_wm5mwvHN1xkC1eoQwnBAVSFUhZ2kE-IrbpZj2fYJGfHKjqU11s80EZfYvXuSQMlUrPjkrtUXiM8V4KkSp_In4wlnL_dY3vXzYsm3L9o2a-f6B3yQW-O4CpkcleVKUYfBVeXvJQ/s1600/turn+up+strap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2AEY_wm5mwvHN1xkC1eoQwnBAVSFUhZ2kE-IrbpZj2fYJGfHKjqU11s80EZfYvXuSQMlUrPjkrtUXiM8V4KkSp_In4wlnL_dY3vXzYsm3L9o2a-f6B3yQW-O4CpkcleVKUYfBVeXvJQ/s1600/turn+up+strap.jpg" height="193" width="200" /></a>Straps: Press each 4”
x 22” strip in half, wrong sides together.
Open out, wrong side up, and press each edge in to meet the middle
fold. Fold in half again, enclosing the
raw edges. The strap will be comprised
of four thicknesses of fabric. Stitch along both long sides, close to the edge.
Turn under about 1/2” on each end of the straps and stitch in place. (See photo at right.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjouadBwluz1G_1t4tDrCeB9C6f9zTkbQPAkWvoMfsA82G_-TMtQBgeCABQeqL3ZahEvLIMAdm8ApfAXFbbwOgdw3iiyxqoE3EwuT1JEIeOIT8LCdan-enDmQty1tbu9rkEpnFj7gPxKAc/s1600/box+stitch+strap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjouadBwluz1G_1t4tDrCeB9C6f9zTkbQPAkWvoMfsA82G_-TMtQBgeCABQeqL3ZahEvLIMAdm8ApfAXFbbwOgdw3iiyxqoE3EwuT1JEIeOIT8LCdan-enDmQty1tbu9rkEpnFj7gPxKAc/s1600/box+stitch+strap.jpg" height="200" width="171" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mark about 3” in from each side of the bag for the strap
position. Pin to the bag at the 3” mark,
about 3/4” down from the top edge of the bag.
Double check to make sure the strap isn’t twisted before sewing. Sew the strap to the top of the bag across the top, down each side, and across the
bottom, in a box shape, then sew corner to corner, an “X” in the center of the
box. Repeat with the other three ends of the straps. If you wish, you may put some stabilizer on the wrong side of the bag for extra stability, but it isn't necessary to do so.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew a button to the band, about 3” up from the elastic loop. I had fun rummaging through my button basket
to find the right buttons for my bags.<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipP6X0hP7YB-9UulQklgVXwir9IpU8fZuhQSKHRNuBioDJihxtNfAFC_RX_HlEN-RxYbOg14ZiYC3gU4gs1O_G-z9setOvwRpO2Hr3K4TLEWCev6fxrjjZQnw83rGTcArMdjXCuRyRAMo/s1600/Boxing+bottom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipP6X0hP7YB-9UulQklgVXwir9IpU8fZuhQSKHRNuBioDJihxtNfAFC_RX_HlEN-RxYbOg14ZiYC3gU4gs1O_G-z9setOvwRpO2Hr3K4TLEWCev6fxrjjZQnw83rGTcArMdjXCuRyRAMo/s1600/Boxing+bottom.jpg" height="200" width="181" /></a></div>
If you wish to box the bottom, turn the bag inside out. Fold the corner so that it forms a triangle, placing
the side seam over the bottom seam. Sew
across the triangle, about 2” from the point.
I backstitched at the beginning and end so the stitching would not pull
out. This “triangle” may be cut off and
the seam serged, but it isn’t necessary to do that. Turn right side out. The bag is finished!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the little piece left over after cutting the contrast
color, a pocket could be sewn on the front or back… or on the inside, if you
prefer. I sewed two pieces together,
leaving a space for turning, and turned right side out and pressed. Position the pocket about 2” down from the
elastic loop, and topstitch the pocket to the main fabric of the tote, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwseQjf7tMFpJ0glNykdhuEkOR_nzko_AJwuHaeyRz5pFiiH1EjteLfSSIzNoUhYAg0Q9i4fmOJSNv0mYRgfow-Azv_4SQVW4J5t98ed52_VVzB67kMh-RfFApLtF_GYYU7WSHKHmyhg/s1600/blue+yellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwseQjf7tMFpJ0glNykdhuEkOR_nzko_AJwuHaeyRz5pFiiH1EjteLfSSIzNoUhYAg0Q9i4fmOJSNv0mYRgfow-Azv_4SQVW4J5t98ed52_VVzB67kMh-RfFApLtF_GYYU7WSHKHmyhg/s1600/blue+yellow.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
making
sure to stitch the place you left open to turn the pocket in the seam. Backstitch at the top edges to secure the
pocket. It works best to sew the pocket
to the main part of the bag before joining the side seams, but it can be done
after if you are careful to keep everything straight, taking care not to catch
any unwanted parts in your seam! The two
layers makes the pocket a bit sturdier. A
Velcro strip can be sewn to the pocket and bag at the top to close the pocket,
if desired, or it can be closed with a button and buttonhole... or just left
open. Depending on the size of the pocket, it can
hold a cell phone, keys, library card, or credit card. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have left some of the bags at 18” wide, but then I add
another contrasting band between the main body and the band, which requires
additional fabric. In most cases, a
jelly roll strip (2-1/2”) works well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Large Tote:
Cut 2 pieces of main fabric, each 10-1/2” or 11” x 18”, depending on how wide
the fat quarter is. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6T3OZ9SldcE0kfMpRj-Q0384HXFlFOQ7Yxi-Eov_hRZBT1Xv9kBRD6KACoh5RW_JFp5RjTY2qh1bz4w9BKIcHx34kk9NxNLzwWn28MiqvCghOkSyUSKAOFqbnnBlAzrhmIjbp0LPLRS8/s1600/large+totes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6T3OZ9SldcE0kfMpRj-Q0384HXFlFOQ7Yxi-Eov_hRZBT1Xv9kBRD6KACoh5RW_JFp5RjTY2qh1bz4w9BKIcHx34kk9NxNLzwWn28MiqvCghOkSyUSKAOFqbnnBlAzrhmIjbp0LPLRS8/s1600/large+totes.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
From one 2-1/2” contrasting strip to use between band and
main body, cut 2 pieces, each 2-1/2” x 18”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut the straps the same as for the smaller tote.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut the bands 5” x 18”.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sew the tote bag the same as in the first example. The only
difference is that it will be wider and a bit longer. The boxed bottom is made the same way, but it
can be a wider “box” by sewing 3” from the point of the triangle, if desired. Larger variations are shown at the right.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKJGfZ6ubytATbJC8wYu044-aKcYpyB_nq0FglpSYdYdnUpi6wollcWZZ-CkCgr2tHgCSpRsT9sHvzXB-JXntIZNxWBN-577xxNW_EBLWoRDbqhxDoEICtRq22x1-Msj2z-1o4fg4hbo/s1600/sides+straps+folded+in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKJGfZ6ubytATbJC8wYu044-aKcYpyB_nq0FglpSYdYdnUpi6wollcWZZ-CkCgr2tHgCSpRsT9sHvzXB-JXntIZNxWBN-577xxNW_EBLWoRDbqhxDoEICtRq22x1-Msj2z-1o4fg4hbo/s1600/sides+straps+folded+in.jpg" height="94" width="200" /></a>To fold the bag, lay the bag flat and fold each side in at the
point where the straps are attached.
Fold the straps down. Roll,
beginning at the bottom, and at the top, secure the roll with the button and
elastic loop. It is small and can easily
fit in a purse or the glove compartment of your vehicle, ready for a time when
you need a bag to put things in, such as a trip to the library. ends of the straps.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIi-cpHR04VUSkUyXvrhbr_m5V2Va_swJDz9UPs0Pwrv2qxDBk3TOa5OlE6A_P8_fAh_lG7fatbix81IxU6Gci_m4gfFth5FbJcCIurWjYvRIoD8rc1otBXdOpVSyfoa1_U9wrCkCduhw/s1600/tote+folded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIi-cpHR04VUSkUyXvrhbr_m5V2Va_swJDz9UPs0Pwrv2qxDBk3TOa5OlE6A_P8_fAh_lG7fatbix81IxU6Gci_m4gfFth5FbJcCIurWjYvRIoD8rc1otBXdOpVSyfoa1_U9wrCkCduhw/s1600/tote+folded.jpg" height="165" width="200" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Variations and Pitfalls:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfvX-Smn7IdzZxpY1LvzYllJTm6kIgt_sH-kQ6w_l0sI2vpf4zT9uyrpm9eZWLe9EXQ0KuRoTBl_lEqGUbLZJ5bcm-Emqr36qxR_ytdl1EGzEDolM731iOXmoPPTeU9DWQBUD7BVcPfY/s1600/examples2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfvX-Smn7IdzZxpY1LvzYllJTm6kIgt_sH-kQ6w_l0sI2vpf4zT9uyrpm9eZWLe9EXQ0KuRoTBl_lEqGUbLZJ5bcm-Emqr36qxR_ytdl1EGzEDolM731iOXmoPPTeU9DWQBUD7BVcPfY/s1600/examples2.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>It works best to fold both ends in, leaving a slight space
between them when making the straps.
This allows for easier folding the final fold when the two edges aren’t
actually meeting or overlapping. One of
the most difficult things was pressing these narrow pieces with steam and not burning
my fingers with the steam, so take care! It doesn't matter if you sew your strap to the right or left
of your mark…just be consistent with all of the straps. It was easier to sew the straps on with the
bag inside-out. It was easier to stitch
the top and band seams with the bag right-side out, stitching on the wrong side
of the bag. Take care when sewing the
straps to the top of the bag… it is almost easier to sew another bag than to
rip one out that’s sewn on the wrong spot!
That happened to me on the THIRTEENTH bag! No wonder #13 has a reputation for bad luck. Here are a few variations on the basic bag. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTjDHCJMFCTQ8Hf1vVdEOEwpeSST65cTnoDhEOFrys3dKZiP3EbuITPzNYOCE4uLtUfNdtMxT2mNcrjXVCOGIEQpTlYOSt_mL-YF5bZyMlGjtdurg74WcMJeits2S_RJ20iw3wtn2QQw/s1600/examples1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTjDHCJMFCTQ8Hf1vVdEOEwpeSST65cTnoDhEOFrys3dKZiP3EbuITPzNYOCE4uLtUfNdtMxT2mNcrjXVCOGIEQpTlYOSt_mL-YF5bZyMlGjtdurg74WcMJeits2S_RJ20iw3wtn2QQw/s1600/examples1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi88ulrViyGw7tskdaEGTMw-8YtZPckZ20sAdhVES8Zn6nZOfoVt1EPTicxel2FKnJwkeGwFF7e-7VEXDppYL7YTo1t6Sve-v_eu-oYys3uqFqeUplBL3n1RR3cElB-u2mMIqyYTefkuo/s1600/examples3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi88ulrViyGw7tskdaEGTMw-8YtZPckZ20sAdhVES8Zn6nZOfoVt1EPTicxel2FKnJwkeGwFF7e-7VEXDppYL7YTo1t6Sve-v_eu-oYys3uqFqeUplBL3n1RR3cElB-u2mMIqyYTefkuo/s1600/examples3.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>This is a good way to use up those bright prints and gaudy colors that don’t
fit well into a quilt. Wild colors are
great in this tote! They look bright and
cheerful… a fun project to gift to a friend. It can be used as a gift bag, and
can be utilized as a tote bag when the gifts are removed. Use your imagination and have fun!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCVLFNuqu9JejpAlcjCphlLgGd37XHQJoTRR2N0HDQci58zJQN-yV9F769io6cdcBcUwipoZVfkaAVYXXQUUMqkdMIZinZ0pA0LjtVEMA338PMNo7vnfUcDF7WP2odWX6d8D-f6q94zSg/s1600/buttons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCVLFNuqu9JejpAlcjCphlLgGd37XHQJoTRR2N0HDQci58zJQN-yV9F769io6cdcBcUwipoZVfkaAVYXXQUUMqkdMIZinZ0pA0LjtVEMA338PMNo7vnfUcDF7WP2odWX6d8D-f6q94zSg/s1600/buttons.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
About 10 years ago, I divided up my buttons and gave each of
my girls a container of them, along with a fitted-out sewing basket of their
own… but I still have a little basket of buttons left. There are strands of elastic thread and
big-eyed needles in the basket, as well, from my children and after that, my
grandchildren, toddlers who sat in my sewing room and strung buttons to make
necklaces and bracelets, while I sewed. I
think some of the buttons are probably over 50 years old, so they can
probably be considered antiques.
Antiques, bit not junk… I’m glad I collected them from dresses, blouses,
shirts, jackets, etc. The useable fabric
from those articles of clothing was cut up and sewn into new things, but not
until the buttons were removed and strung together to be used on something
new. So many memories reside with the
buttons in the basket… memories that have little meaning to anyone but me. Perhaps it's time for these buttons
to decorate someone else’s life… I hope when the bag has reached the end of
its life, the button will continue its journey on another cherished item! <o:p></o:p></div>
Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-68422582793923403122014-12-13T13:59:00.000-08:002014-12-13T13:59:56.236-08:00Advent Banners and Family Fun
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKRUkfpTlAVOAQjOMZxE_IXl3p01CQN9oTP-NkHX7p4ROeYK-O34WYW2pddWrhHiaoYnBNPnOAHPxv8nKYK-QwhMKlVflluyu3j1Nb8h-3q2y-83Rg8dhgeUNy_KDZJ40NljjZCmyjeU/s1600/6+youngest+grandkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKRUkfpTlAVOAQjOMZxE_IXl3p01CQN9oTP-NkHX7p4ROeYK-O34WYW2pddWrhHiaoYnBNPnOAHPxv8nKYK-QwhMKlVflluyu3j1Nb8h-3q2y-83Rg8dhgeUNy_KDZJ40NljjZCmyjeU/s1600/6+youngest+grandkids.jpg" height="380" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
My five children had Advent Candy Banners when they were
little, made of felt with decorative Christmas ribbon down the center and yarn
ties down both sides to tie the candy to the banner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>I thought it would be a fun project for the
grandchildren to make, since we will all be together for Thanksgiving, I dug out some pretty upholstery-weight fabric</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfmaJ3l6N8dhqUv2uwE1YLWCVP390bI0KjjctOFdWBc02gJrHRIC5ouPDVQ5G6LJkOAF6Vk12636oFyXygrrgoDw8wpPTFypQgXYLOokZiTrBBPc0ll-CCQ20GWoG-jD5AI68OGZL6KI/s1600/sewing+across+end+to+make+point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfmaJ3l6N8dhqUv2uwE1YLWCVP390bI0KjjctOFdWBc02gJrHRIC5ouPDVQ5G6LJkOAF6Vk12636oFyXygrrgoDw8wpPTFypQgXYLOokZiTrBBPc0ll-CCQ20GWoG-jD5AI68OGZL6KI/s1600/sewing+across+end+to+make+point.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
from my stash, bought to use as accents for tote bags and purses some
years ago…. It’s antique gold chenille with subtle purple highlights and a lot
of texture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cut the banners 12” by
27”, and since the fabric was 54” wide, I got two from each 12” pass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sewed the rectangle into a tube, right
sides together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I turned it right side
out and pressed it well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I folded it
right sides together on the bottom edge , and sewed across the four layers…
make sure your sewing machine will handle heavy fabrics in multiple layers, or
use a lighter weight fabric with some interfacing to stiffen it if your machine
will not handle heavy jobs.</div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmbq3p4KlDcE4adUdzMRB6SzC-wKRgrLLTwfWcqoRiVTXWAlRKq7KV9_2LdRxPhnnRY3l6YyV0jZ1d5tOgvfplyok1VHdpxGUT62nEqcsBqBODRkZ5W6eLDQJvCyOlT-JMzRYBn-zeNM/s1600/turning+point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmbq3p4KlDcE4adUdzMRB6SzC-wKRgrLLTwfWcqoRiVTXWAlRKq7KV9_2LdRxPhnnRY3l6YyV0jZ1d5tOgvfplyok1VHdpxGUT62nEqcsBqBODRkZ5W6eLDQJvCyOlT-JMzRYBn-zeNM/s1600/turning+point.jpg" height="136" width="200" /></a></div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Trim that
seam and turn it right side out, and it will form a point, like it did in the
table runner tutorial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stitch across the
open top of the point on the backside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Stitch the open end closed, just sewing through both layers in about a
½” seam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheToRLnqZMxkXtv_8CSyV_wcznW1DAbgwAkynJFT1yWPgjmKtrSQu9uqskFdF42gte5lWOH8_gEvtGcApP8o868XVA_97sR6RGxWxipG42q3dRLBV8ATZTaBz1GkeP-W_zrRfaEaSicy0/s1600/stitching+point+down+backside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheToRLnqZMxkXtv_8CSyV_wcznW1DAbgwAkynJFT1yWPgjmKtrSQu9uqskFdF42gte5lWOH8_gEvtGcApP8o868XVA_97sR6RGxWxipG42q3dRLBV8ATZTaBz1GkeP-W_zrRfaEaSicy0/s1600/stitching+point+down+backside.jpg" height="163" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Choose a jelly roll fabric or
cut your own 2-1/2” strips for the center decoration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cut mine in half, so they are about 20” to
22” long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1I6zL2MHAnc-9mX5UHQMGmxHnovdsK-ZDUFub7TUV9nwMvPIG5TP2qUWpaOY52BikthsN-NUGOmzmO7uGVMVi4G9xLGO_714GQG1eR0WKeEDDII8MZLIl0-S0kPg5Nhmv6rhAapKicE/s1600/pressing+qtr+inch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1I6zL2MHAnc-9mX5UHQMGmxHnovdsK-ZDUFub7TUV9nwMvPIG5TP2qUWpaOY52BikthsN-NUGOmzmO7uGVMVi4G9xLGO_714GQG1eR0WKeEDDII8MZLIl0-S0kPg5Nhmv6rhAapKicE/s1600/pressing+qtr+inch.jpg" height="87" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Fold in half the long way,
right sides together, and stitch across the bottom, again forming a point when
you turn it right side out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Press under
¼” on both long sides and pin it to the banner you made from upholstery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found out the hard way that I needed to
situate the point of the decorative strip ABOVE the triangle forming the point
on the banner, as it is just too thick to sew through without making your machine
work too hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpmTflIgflIUwSlsDP7MexyYo_qlirdeBQVwEjx7AVlpmfTPJfCVPJmJddtq78IgWqjDc-prO5_tGnO4z3QjuZFu0cS7vPQD2d-xgK2MgtqngwbPvyyn96OUh6bUJjCFDHLSAJnl25I4/s1600/aligning+center+strip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpmTflIgflIUwSlsDP7MexyYo_qlirdeBQVwEjx7AVlpmfTPJfCVPJmJddtq78IgWqjDc-prO5_tGnO4z3QjuZFu0cS7vPQD2d-xgK2MgtqngwbPvyyn96OUh6bUJjCFDHLSAJnl25I4/s1600/aligning+center+strip.jpg" height="103" width="200" /></a></div>
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Topstitch along both
sides, around the point and across the top of the decorative strip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not turn the top under, because the
poem will cover that part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fold the top
of the banner to the backside, making about a 3” rod pocket. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topstitch through all layers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUuLRl2jvMj3_ZsAwPEadXX9fOppXwenhyiYSRFv6N5YENyACdWM6heIg7vqDJDrL2F_wbrwuVUMPqgzmE1NmczlapXuQgaU_jtA1fYYpIn_DMkCb88Ll87IZG33BQvQykFtf70wWgzg/s1600/sewiing+top+end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUuLRl2jvMj3_ZsAwPEadXX9fOppXwenhyiYSRFv6N5YENyACdWM6heIg7vqDJDrL2F_wbrwuVUMPqgzmE1NmczlapXuQgaU_jtA1fYYpIn_DMkCb88Ll87IZG33BQvQykFtf70wWgzg/s1600/sewiing+top+end.jpg" height="200" width="181" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtEAeZ-hKij735nYTxJ8D3UbKPTEE7K_EWN8iV3X27zxKsSlmfBkUBTpstvBdPoxrLCPsGTM20pFT1B3GztLTOexR-y7CyQLIgFd6PEGaIvi_faUWIzM5bMJD-_vadQYShLPzz-3mT1rw/s1600/marking+for+ties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtEAeZ-hKij735nYTxJ8D3UbKPTEE7K_EWN8iV3X27zxKsSlmfBkUBTpstvBdPoxrLCPsGTM20pFT1B3GztLTOexR-y7CyQLIgFd6PEGaIvi_faUWIzM5bMJD-_vadQYShLPzz-3mT1rw/s1600/marking+for+ties.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Mark both sides of the center strip with
magic marker dots, so you know where to sew the 24 lengths of yarn for the
candy ties. My marks were about 1-1/2" apart. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cut the yarn in 12”
segments, and take one stitch to anchor it to the banner, then knot it twice, forming a square knot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Sherri, Ava and I sewed the yarn ties on. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdW6p2U56MCRO6dhKsK2wnBTZsJSjAX63jr-pkQjaL2d5p32rWJXR-CYq2nIxSEHIqcLdrkNu5ztLR45_VSoanD8NQd1tpWkI-3CfJC0K1QwOO9yDCmYUiOz5bU3YLpC2CP4NMTdmsTU/s1600/decorating+banners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdW6p2U56MCRO6dhKsK2wnBTZsJSjAX63jr-pkQjaL2d5p32rWJXR-CYq2nIxSEHIqcLdrkNu5ztLR45_VSoanD8NQd1tpWkI-3CfJC0K1QwOO9yDCmYUiOz5bU3YLpC2CP4NMTdmsTU/s1600/decorating+banners.jpg" height="103" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvGEZ7-EE5yXj3pEnBvTxeLjy8OIeQHtXLYg_le7QKi6Gm2lHKZdo8oNicnGhpFuh8Ff8-LwqRLBwLWMVnR8wP8MLj1osrxd3Lj0jcDSQDNo4iADrG1XLBwrd3FO2TfaKMLuvH1NFnQeM/s1600/ava+sewing+yarn+ties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvGEZ7-EE5yXj3pEnBvTxeLjy8OIeQHtXLYg_le7QKi6Gm2lHKZdo8oNicnGhpFuh8Ff8-LwqRLBwLWMVnR8wP8MLj1osrxd3Lj0jcDSQDNo4iADrG1XLBwrd3FO2TfaKMLuvH1NFnQeM/s1600/ava+sewing+yarn+ties.jpg" height="200" width="180" /></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attach a bell on the bottom point of the
banner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Insert a dowel or twig through
the casing at the top of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Griffin
cut our twigs from bushes bordering the yard in back, and they worked great!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bella, Ava, and my sister, Sherri, added
decorative bows on the bottom made of various things. You may add additional
decorations, if you choose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Print the
following poem out on card stock paper and glue that to another piece of
heavyweight cardstock or thin cardboard using rubber cement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glue the cardstock to the top of the banner
with a good craft glue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> Attach
a 12” length of Jute, cord, or raffia to each end of the twig to hang the
banner. We put a dab of craft glue on the place where the jute cord was knotted on the twig to ensure it stays put.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> The photo below, right, shows many of the banners completed, waiting for the yarn ties, bell, and hanger. Maddie printed off the poems for us and cut them to size.</div>
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</div>
</div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdydPLOnJcQMi8hPC3Em77E4uGRMDICIdlYEwqhOwKj1ksuvtCWXfbZrtKs8YtLVpose4ehOOyN0k1pVcDnScJ1WrGLu_A5-hu9KO2vePwR3BNkSDUivWs1iZ4MFRmJ_752DmUbjXZ6c/s1600/banners+waiting+for+finishing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdydPLOnJcQMi8hPC3Em77E4uGRMDICIdlYEwqhOwKj1ksuvtCWXfbZrtKs8YtLVpose4ehOOyN0k1pVcDnScJ1WrGLu_A5-hu9KO2vePwR3BNkSDUivWs1iZ4MFRmJ_752DmUbjXZ6c/s1600/banners+waiting+for+finishing.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">December first ‘til Christmas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is the longest time of year.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It seems as though old Santa Claus<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Never will appear.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How many days until Christmas?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It's mighty hard to count.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So this little candy banner<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Will show you the amount.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Untie a candy every day<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Sandman casts his spell<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And Christmas Eve will be here<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">By the time you reach the bell.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMoVArVegYDoXBKGr3vhff2JG7Ac8l74dqCmMNFeIYrXmQ_IMK214Hun-Ibc3Fvu5Rzvt-HbKiSkZK3E925Hs_ngL3nrLOWJ6IBMgpdXlONjbHdEdRofxO0PruaAt5AX_NPx3qG591j-I/s1600/engrossed+in+candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMoVArVegYDoXBKGr3vhff2JG7Ac8l74dqCmMNFeIYrXmQ_IMK214Hun-Ibc3Fvu5Rzvt-HbKiSkZK3E925Hs_ngL3nrLOWJ6IBMgpdXlONjbHdEdRofxO0PruaAt5AX_NPx3qG591j-I/s1600/engrossed+in+candy.jpg" height="134" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your Advent Candy Banner is now complete and ready for you
to tie on wrapped candy pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
banner should follow your child into adulthood, and perhaps someday will be
used by your grandchild.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAd4qSSTlCUaWhraVFeBM_jH5duR2jj-WX2c-0rGzBmRfrfF7wr26YcX1pnxXqzVaj_cwQrB4OuWs9-t-RzDkXpQk1dHc1Tfa191d-azASH5KxBnDL5YZfrcZxNbzUXuASwBFpipd6Vos/s1600/choosing+candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAd4qSSTlCUaWhraVFeBM_jH5duR2jj-WX2c-0rGzBmRfrfF7wr26YcX1pnxXqzVaj_cwQrB4OuWs9-t-RzDkXpQk1dHc1Tfa191d-azASH5KxBnDL5YZfrcZxNbzUXuASwBFpipd6Vos/s1600/choosing+candy.jpg" height="158" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbOYB11J8afgjb7O_ssjXzT3vPqVo_AM0kjYmIq95QDtojp3UtSv0ibJqiA5CWys5GI4vxvqIgMWWzekoqRnqW5lPF-QNzp66cgDkZsNHOoi5sJnkh971HykXs13cuVy7PbKUqcjoNV0/s1600/charlotte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbOYB11J8afgjb7O_ssjXzT3vPqVo_AM0kjYmIq95QDtojp3UtSv0ibJqiA5CWys5GI4vxvqIgMWWzekoqRnqW5lPF-QNzp66cgDkZsNHOoi5sJnkh971HykXs13cuVy7PbKUqcjoNV0/s1600/charlotte.jpg" height="200" width="101" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My grandchildren and the two little great-grands had a lot
of fun choosing their candy… the littlest ones needed help tying them to the
banner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had an assortment of wrapped
candy, dum-dums, and fun-sized candy bars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Little Charlotte was so funny… hers was mostly cookies and cream
chocolate bars!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She very seriously told
us they were her favorite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSJ1HKgPlAmznaNE5yGYPZovla7iIztCn4IJv21xhBtyzoBV75WMzckhLDmGclY5sZhVttjvG4M8G9ZAm_WvskLye4Fkhct1bu2n619GWY1-uLioioTF-y9Mx1lF1twROTZv1UXIrMlU/s1600/henna+artwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSJ1HKgPlAmznaNE5yGYPZovla7iIztCn4IJv21xhBtyzoBV75WMzckhLDmGclY5sZhVttjvG4M8G9ZAm_WvskLye4Fkhct1bu2n619GWY1-uLioioTF-y9Mx1lF1twROTZv1UXIrMlU/s1600/henna+artwork.jpg" height="200" width="185" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While everyone was busy doing their thing, after Bella
finished her banner, she <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1LTVODIp5pTVp6mI5V2OTiOzCJfolEf0CJIdq2HHM7l7XBo9ZplqAHgyc944w_jbk9QqhzgXS1H12euil0kEfdXRJEHpCuTPusvlSY66Qqwaf4oRMdUZdRgJJ3w-TIIFccR1J8LpV8I/s1600/april+and+bella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1LTVODIp5pTVp6mI5V2OTiOzCJfolEf0CJIdq2HHM7l7XBo9ZplqAHgyc944w_jbk9QqhzgXS1H12euil0kEfdXRJEHpCuTPusvlSY66Qqwaf4oRMdUZdRgJJ3w-TIIFccR1J8LpV8I/s1600/april+and+bella.jpg" height="143" width="200" /></a>painted henna art on everyone who wanted it… from
little Lucas to the adults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is an
excellent Henna Artist, and everyone had a lot of fun getting their own Henna
tattoo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> In this photo, she is painting the henna on her Auntie April, Mark's wife, and the finished tattoo is shown on the right. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was a wonderful holiday,
filled with a lot of laughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfFWoQGF1BpNSVxtuTi6Ro6HhO6Uf1_NwKktXfqmauEJ5pGHlzA5ear24DcBftmklxhlgrDwOKrze4VDvS_-lvv0R_ZOCBfyjUy14GaZhLri21Bn6Olwfp6sBbdNg6v3Bwc5pYN66Hi8/s1600/my+five.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfFWoQGF1BpNSVxtuTi6Ro6HhO6Uf1_NwKktXfqmauEJ5pGHlzA5ear24DcBftmklxhlgrDwOKrze4VDvS_-lvv0R_ZOCBfyjUy14GaZhLri21Bn6Olwfp6sBbdNg6v3Bwc5pYN66Hi8/s1600/my+five.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a
joy to me, as a mother, to see how much fun my five children have together as
adults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sherri commented to me at one
point, “We’ve got some really good kids!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I agree wholeheartedly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Everyone is busy leading their own lives, but when we come together,
there is Love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that is the greatest
gift my children can give me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, midway to Christmas, the children should be half way to
the bell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I hope the memory of this
first Christmas making their Advent Banners will be something they will remember for a
very long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope your holiday
season is also sweetened with the love of friends and family!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
Happy Holidays from our house to yours! I hope the New Year brings all good things your way. <br />
In the words of one of our favorite yuletide songs... We wish you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!<br />
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3607858532334514201.post-59608353006844147172014-12-13T06:17:00.000-08:002014-12-13T06:17:38.524-08:00Porketta and Angels We Call Sister<br />
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Porketta and Angels We Call Sisters:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Note: This is late
getting posted, due to a problem with my computer. It went to the tech hospital and the Geek
Squad made it all well again… so pretend you are back in Thanksgiving mode,
please!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once upon a time there was a young woman, all of 14 years
old, who had two younger sisters.
Then came daughter number 4! This
young woman loved the baby sister almost as much as if she were her own
babe. As the baby grew, so did the young
woman. When the baby was 4 years old,
the big sister got married… young by today’s standards, but it was not unusual
for young women of 18 to be married in the Midwest in 1960. A year later, she had a baby of her own, but
her little sister was still special to her, and the little sister sometimes
spent weekends with her. They sewed doll
clothes and she cooked the little sister’s favorite foods, like waffles and
spinach… not served together, of course, and she taught her little sister many
things she knew. As time passed and they
both grew older, they still were close.
They shared laughter and tears as they traveled separate paths, and the
little sister began to teach her big sister many things. She taught her to make jewelry, and how to
make collages formed from bits of things too precious to throw away, lovely
works of art that decorated her walls. She
taught her new recipes, and still they laughed together and shared the sacred
moments of their lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This week, that little sister came to her big sister’s home
to celebrate Thanksgiving with her family.
She and her husband have no children, so she shares the children and
grandchildren of her older sisters.
Tonight, my two sons who do not live here in Cincinnati will arrive with
their families, and all five of my children and their families will be together again. I am so very happy my baby sister was able to
come and be with us, getting to know the grandchildren she shares and renewing
bonds with my children. I have been
cleaning and preparing my house for visitors… 26 in my immediate family will be
here on Thanksgiving, if everyone comes.
I still hadn't gotten the beds changed or my refrigerator cleaned
out. A dear friend told me that perhaps
an angel or two would show up to help finish everything. And, Priss, you were right! My sweet sister changed the beds AND cleaned my refrigerator. Not cleaned, as I would have cleaned it…
tossing old leftovers out... she took EVERYTHING out, including even the door
shelves. She tossed things that were lab
specimens, as my children call them, and washed all the shelves and the inside
of the refrigerator! I had a pork loin
in the refrigerator that I said I wanted to make into a porketta, and she
promptly replied that she makes porketta all the time! For those of you who didn't grow up on the Iron Range of Northern Minnesota, the melting pot of nationalities and
immigrants, a porketta is a pork roast that is butterflied and seasoned with
onion, garlic, fennel, salt and pepper.
It is a traditional food on the Iron Range, and served especially at
holidays and special occasions. It’s
delicious served hot or cold in sandwiches.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir90NfNNi5teB1JlCND1qIpkBqmvYmXfzODWpYWV8LJbXevIAFYRAZySmSNgQoS6lKjah4ydg1-0Y0IjLvppgs9jja6xJQik8InjlFYFTClxNua04FNGHg4MO1pc3my4da5kZ_caTb9t0/s1600/butterflied+pork+loin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir90NfNNi5teB1JlCND1qIpkBqmvYmXfzODWpYWV8LJbXevIAFYRAZySmSNgQoS6lKjah4ydg1-0Y0IjLvppgs9jja6xJQik8InjlFYFTClxNua04FNGHg4MO1pc3my4da5kZ_caTb9t0/s1600/butterflied+pork+loin.jpg" height="154" width="200" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
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Little Sister, also known as Sherri, laid the pork roast on
my cutting board, deftly sliced into it with a knife and spread it out on the
cutting board. </div>
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She then diced up a large
onion and sprinkled that over the pork.
Next came the minced garlic… 2 to 4 Tablespoons, according to taste. Finally, she sprinkled Fennel seed (we used
ground Fennel this time) over everything, then salt and pepper liberally. </div>
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Next, she rolled it up like a jelly roll and
tied it together with cotton worsted weight yarn… the closest thing I have to
string.<br />
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<o:p>She salted and peppered the outside and added a bit more fennel, and put the onion and garlic bits that had escaped over the top of the roast. Then she triple-bagged it (porketta has a very strong scent that permeates everything in the refrigerator), and it is in the meat drawer of the spotlessly clean refrigerator, waiting to be roasted. It will provide sandwiches for the multitudes in my home over the weekend. (Addendum: the porketta was cooked to perfection in my Halogen roaster, and smelled delicious!)</o:p> </div>
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While Sherri was busy putting things back in the refrigerator, I was busy with a project of my own. I am making Advent Candy Banners. I’ll put up another blog SOON with photos of our banners made the day after Thanksgiving this year.<br />
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I am thankful for my family.
My sister and my children helped me do much of the prep work for Thanksgiving
dinner, as well as the clean-up. The turkey will be put to bake in the morning. I will make dinner rolls…
then it is just a matter of putting everything into the oven to bake. I’ll assemble the stuffing and bake it
separately from the turkey. My youngest
son peeled and diced parsnips, turnips rutabaga, carrots, and sweet potatoes
and put them in a roasting pan, ready for the seasoning before baking. My sister made a crockpot of red and white
rice and lentils with curry that is smelling delicious. I made ribbon jello, dreamsicle salad and a
lime/pistachio/cottage cheese salad. I
have a huge bowl of diced pineapple and oranges, a couple of pans of freshly baked cinnamon
rolls and a big crockpot of “fruit soup” (a Finnish tradition) for breakfast. And don’t you dare tell me there
aren't angels among us, because one is sleeping in the room above me as I write
this, and I call her “SISTER”!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Update: I didn't hear my alarm go off Thanksgiving morning, and awoke an hour too late... but the aroma of turkey roasting was in the air! My youngest son had set HIS alarm, and he put the turkey on at the right time, and diced all the celery, onions, and even some mushrooms for the dressing. I don't usually put mushrooms in mine, but I know he's a very experienced cook, so I tossed them in. When he got up, he told me he sliced the mushrooms in the hope that I would make coddled eggs with mushrooms for breakfast! He didn't get them that morning, but I did make him coddled eggs the next day. And, of course, Quentin got his cheese omelet. I notice the grandchildren are starting traditions of their own. (Smile!)</div>
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If you are fortunate enough to have a sister, perhaps these quotes will have some special meaning for you, as they do for me:</div>
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One's sister is a part of one's essential self; an eternal presence of one's heart and soul and memory.</div>
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...Susan Cahill, American Writer</div>
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You can't think how I depend on you, and when you're not there, the colour goes out of my life.</div>
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...Virginia Woolf, English Writer</div>
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A sibling may be the sole keeper of one's core identity, the only person with the keys to one's unfettered, more fundamental self. ...Marian Sandmaier, 20th Century American Writer</div>
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Loving a sister is an unconditional, narcissistic, and complicated devotion that approximates a mother's love... sisters are inescapably connected, shaped by the same two parents, the same trove of memory and experience. ...Mary Bruno, 20th Century American Writer</div>
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We are sisters. We will always be sisters. Our differences may never go away but neither, for me, will our song. ...Nancy Kelton, 20th Century American Writer</div>
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Alaena Diamonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04461656202743828435noreply@blogger.com2