Saturday, February 27, 2010

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.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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!


Sunday, February 14, 2010

To Love


Happy Valentine's Day
XXOO

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

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.