Pink!

And they smell as pretty as they look. I love the Spring-y atmosphere we've enjoyed for the last week or so. It inspires one to take on new projects and I've started a few. One involves a wood burning tool and colored pencils. More on that later.

I've signed on for an embroidery "Stitch Along" with Amy of Inspire Co. We'll be stitching a sampler in one inch squares; one for each of 39 (or whatever) days, beginning March 1. Amy has created a blog for the project. There's still time to sign-up, so check it out. I look forward to seeing the samplers progress.

Misc.

I think you can tell what kind of day it is around here. Enjoying the sun, inside (yes, there is a dog under that fur).

Just a few things around my workspace (playing with a new camera here).

The bookrack from Goodwill, painted in a favorite color.

Treasured buttons.

Pillows I made for the front room.

Prints and original work I'm loving from this artist.

Hoping you're having a good week!

To Love

Happy Valentine's Day
XXOO

Join us for Soup

We're all dressed up but nowhere to go at the moment. Since it's a wet and gloomy day, let's go into the kitchen and make some soup. This one seems to be quite popular around here with family and guests.

Baked Potato Soup

4 medium baking potatoes
5 Tablespoons butter
1/2 C. flour
5 C. milk
2 Cups chicken broth
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
7 slices regular bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
5-6 green onions, chopped (white and green parts)
1-1/4 C. grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 C. light sour cream

Bake potatoes in a 400 degree F. oven for 1 hour. Set aside to cool a bit. Cut potatoes in half and scoop out insides into bowl. Set aside. In a stockpot or dutch oven, melt butter over med.-low heat then whisk in flour, salt and pepper(s). Raise heat to medium; cook and stir a minute or two. Whisk in milk and chicken stock and bring to a boil. Keep and eye on pot and stir bottom frequently. When it has started boiling and thickened a bit, turn heat to low and add potatoes and remaining ingredients. Use a potato masher in pot to break up chunks. Taste and adjust seasonings. Enjoy.