Westie Julep

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to OREO!

2012-03-05T20:41:00.000-05:00

It's not Derby's birthday ... but it's

Oreo's big 100th birthday.

So in case you didn't know here is all you need

to know about the creation of the famous

Oreo Cookie!

Have you seen these special edition packages of

Oreo cookies in your grocery store?

Oreos Are Introduced

In 1898, several baking companies merged to form the

National Biscuit Company (NaBisCo), the maker of Oreo cookies.

By 1902, Nabisco created Barnum's Animal cookies and made them

famous by selling them in a little box designed like a cage

with a string attached (to hang on Christmas trees).

In 1912, Nabisco had a new idea for a cookie -

two chocolate disks with a creme filling in between.

The first Oreo cookie looked very similar to the Oreo cookie of today,

with only a slight difference in the design on the chocolate disks.

The shape and design of the Oreo cookie didn't change much

until Nabisco began selling various versions of the cookie.

In 1975, Nabisco released their DOUBLE STUF Oreos.

Nabisco continued to create variations:

1987 -- Fudge covered Oreos introduced
1991 -- Halloween Oreos introduced

1995 -- Christmas Oreos introduced

The Mysterious Name

So how did the Oreo get its name?

The people at Nabisco aren't quite sure.

Some believe that the cookie's name was taken from the French word for gold,

"or" (the main color on early Oreo packages).

Others claim the name stemmed from the shape of a hill-shaped test version;

thus naming the cookie in Greek for mountain, "oreo."

Still others believe the name is a combination of taking the "re" from "cream"

and placing it between the two "o"s in "chocolate" - making "o-re-o."

And still others believe that the cookie was named Oreo

because it was short and easy to pronounce.

The National Biscuit Company sold its first batch of Oreos on March 6, 1912

—and as the cookie's 100th birthday approaches,

its makers want the world to celebrate.

Kraft Foods has launched an international campaign across media new

and old, centered on a birthday-party theme and complete with special

events and limited-edition Birthday Cake Oreos. "

HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY TO

THE BEST COOKIE EVER!

Sewing Saturday ... And ... Sunday

2012-03-04T21:31:00.000-05:00

Originally I chose this fabric to use in my quilt but the

colors and pattern didn't work.

What didn't work for my quilt worked beautifully

for an American Girl drop waist dress.

Easter Skirts and Tops With Matching Headbands

Pants and Headband

Short Sleeve Top

I'm going to try my hand at making a floppy hat.

Apron

My first attempt at making an apron

and I have to say ... it's really cute!

All in all I had a great weekend sewing

up a storm and playing with the westies.

I look forward to one day making

something for little old me!

We Watched The Movie: HUGO

2012-03-04T08:36:00.001-05:00

There wasn't a single good thing on TV last night so we

decided to see a pay-per-view movie.

With several good movies to pick from we decided to

purchase the movie HUGO.

This is the type of movie we normally wouldn't see

but it was nominated for [and won] so many awards we

wanted to see what it was all about.

Julep and Derby basically watched the entire movie with us

on the sofa or when the excitement of doggie action was to

much the jumped to the floor and barked.

There were big doggies and little doggies [much to their delight]

that kept their attention focused.

The plot was good, not brilliant, but enjoyable.

The scenery was interesting, very detailed and it had a happy ending.

... PLOT ...

In 1931, Hugo Cabret, a 12-year-old boy, lives with his widowed father, a master clockmaker in Paris. Hugo's father takes him to see films and particularly loves the films of Georges Méliès. Hugo's father dies in a museum fire, and Hugo is taken away by his uncle, an alcoholic watchmaker who is responsible for maintaining the clocks in the railway station Gare Montparnasse. His uncle teaches him to take care of the clocks and then disappears.

Hugo lives between the walls of the station, maintaining the clocks, stealing food and working on his father's most ambitious project: repairing a broken automaton, a mechanical man who is supposed to write with a pen. Convinced the automaton contains a message from his father, Hugo goes to desperate lengths to fix it. He steals mechanical parts to repair the automaton, but he is caught by a toy store owner, Georges Méliès, who takes Hugo's notebook from him, with notes and drawings for fixing the automaton.

To recover the notebook, Hugo follows Méliès to his house and meets Isabelle, an orphan close to his age and Georges' goddaughter. She promises to help. The next day, Méliès gives some ashes to Hugo, referring to them as the notebook's remains, but Isabelle informs him that the notebook was not burnt. Finally Méliès agrees that Hugo may earn the notebook back by working for him until he pays for all the things he stole from the shop.

...

... TO LEARN HOW HUGO ENDS ...

... YOU'LL JUST HAVE TO WATCH THE MOVIE ...

Happy Westies, Happy Husband

2012-03-03T08:26:00.000-05:00

Julep & Derby ... Happy Little Westies

We left the westies home last night snuggled

in their warm blankets right from the dryer.

It was the opening night and reception for

Wilson's photographic exhibit at the

Easton Promise Art Gallery.

Happy Husband ... Excellent Photographer

A favorite photo ... our creek is covered in spring pollen.

The sunflower really stands out against the clear blue sky.

Wilson took this photo while we were walking the westies.

A series of Yosemite photographs.

Wilson's photograph will be on exhibit until the end

of the month and they are for sale through the Gallery.

After the reception we grabbed a bite to eat at the

BBQ Joint in Easton. They have the best

pulled pork sandwich ... so much better than

Red, Hot & Blue.

Pulled Pork Sandwich, OC Fries & Homemade Cornbread

Enjoy Your Weekend

I'll be busy finishing up a few

American Girl outfits since we're having rain today.

Julep Wants Dinner, Derby Wants Dinner, So I Guess I'm Finished Sewing For Today!

2012-03-01T19:44:00.002-05:00

Typical of Julep trying her best to tell me it's

dinner time and she's hungry. The weather was so

warm today Wilson and I took them for a walk

in St. Michaels. Hard to believe this is March 1st

- our temp reached 66 degrees today on the eastern

shore of Maryland.

Who can resist these westie faces ...

so I'll stop my sewing and fix them dinner.

Shorts With Matching Top

I had enough fabric to make a set for me as well

as my sister. I found a few pieces

of Easter egg & chick fabric from last year

so I'll make a few simple skirts.

I love sewing these little projects!

Do you remember Alize?

She's in Omaha, NE and her caregiver

{Karen} sent this new photo. It was

cold and windy so Karen decided to dress her
in layers so she could go outside and be comfortable.

Underneath is a sweater, topped by one of the fleece coats I made.

I love this face and only wish

the very best for this little sweetheart.

Leap Day & My Last Quilting Lesson

2012-02-29T09:10:00.001-05:00

Derby in Pencil

HAPPY LEAP YEAR

... DID YOU KNOW ...

2012 is a leap year, with 366 days instead of the usual 365 days. Why?

It was the ancient Egyptians who first figured out that

the solar year and the man-made calendar year didn't always match up.

That's because it actually takes the Earth a little longer

than a year to travel around the Sun —

365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 46 seconds, to be exact.

Therefore, as the hours accumulated over the centuries,

an extra day was occasionally added to the calendar,

and over time the practice became more or less official.

The Romans first designated February 29 as leap day,

but a more precise formula (still in use today) was

adopted in the 16th century when the Gregorian calendar

fine-tuned the calculations to include a leap day in

years only divisible by four - 2012, 2016, 2020, 2024, etc.

Another stipulation ruled that no year divisible by 100

would have a leap year, except if it was divisible by 400.

Thus, 1900 was not a leap year ... but 2000 was! Go figure.

Thankfully, all this intricate plotting will continue

to keep us in tune with the seasons over the next several thousand years.

... THE LAST QUILTING CLASS & PROJECT ...

In this class we pinned a back fabric and batting

together with the top ... then stitched in the ditch

around the inside of the outside border.

Stitch in the Ditch to hold all three pieces together.

This was a challenge holding all this material while

trying to sew a straight line!

This is a civil war quilt that was shown to the class as an example.

Sandy the head instructor explains the next steps

in piecing our project together.

JoAnn deciding what to do next on her masterpiece.

Working through the next steps with one of the instructors.

There is basically one instructor for every two students.

Pinning in just the right spot to hold three layers in place.

Last night we leaned to make the binding which we sewed

to the edges. The instructors showed us a trick on how to
fold the fabric at the corners to get it just right.

I didn't take any photo's since class time was running out.
The final step ... fold the edge binding and hand sew it to the back
then it's time to sew 'free-style' and quilt the top.

Julep wants me to make her a westie quilt so she can snuggle up and be warm

on rainy days like today. I just may consider her request ... at some point!

My next quilting class [Quilting 201] starts next Tuesday.

We'll learn to make a tad more complicated block

as well as a larger piece.

Catching Zzzzz's, Catching Rays & Various Other Things

2012-02-28T15:27:00.001-05:00

... Derby ...

He made sure the bed was just the way he

wanted it before catching some Zzzzzz's.

... Julep ...

Catching sun rays on the dining room carpet.

Big Hawk ... Looking For A Little Duck Snack

Derby's new friend ... Bourbon

I kid & say if we ever get a third westie it's going to

be named Bourbon - that is after I drink the bottle!

Derby said he's going to ship Bourbon to

Grand Mom's house to live.

They sort of look alike, don't they?

... ...

SEWING

... ...

Tonight is my final quilting class and I'm hoping

to complete my project.

At last weeks class I was talking to the instructors

and mentioned they should consider a program

to teach girls how to sew learning basic techniques.

What better way to do this then by

using patterns for an 18" doll.

Quick & easy projects can be done in

one class session.

The instructors will try and work

this out with the YMCA as a joint

effort. I'm taking my doll and several

outfits to class tonight for fun. I volunteered

to help instruct should the class be offered in the fall.

Thanks for visiting

and

I appreciate all of your comments.

Sunday Sewing Day

2012-02-26T21:32:00.000-05:00

I spent most of Sunday in my sewing loft making Easter

& spring dresses for American Girl dolls.

This fabric is very spring-like.

I added an under-layer of tulle

for extra fullness to the skirt.

Decorative bows with pearls

add cuteness to the top.

Pink Bunny Dress

Easter Egg & Flower Dress

Derby fast asleep in my spot on the sofa.

{and I don't have the heart to move him}

It's been a busy weekend and I'm

looking forward to finishing my quilt

in class on Tuesday and deciding

what pattern I want to make next.

Wishing you a great week ahead.

A Visit To Baltimore

2012-02-25T09:04:00.000-05:00

... Derby ...

Easter Egg Dress

Fabric from my sister as a gift.

Deb gave me a yard so I have enough to make

several more dresses which I'll give to her

to add to her Easter give-a-way.

On Friday I drove into Baltimore to meet my mom.

We then went to my sister's house so

we could take her to lunch for her birthday.

Here are just a few photo's from yesterday.

Deb purchased several patterns on-line

and made copies for me. Thanks Deb!

The dress [above] was made using ideas

from two different patterns.

Debby's stash of fabrics.

This is only the tip of the fabric iceberg!

I made a sock monkey outfit for Deb's next

Easter give-a-way. She's still sewing for 3 little girls.

Opening presents.

Did you guess one of them was

a gift card to JoAnn's?

Fabric shopping is so much fun.

Especially since the new spring collections

are starting to appear in the stores.

Debby & Mom working on adjusting the

fit on a cape.

Debby's new sewing machine.

I like the fact that Viking has a top loading

bobbin compartment.

... Julep ...

And while Mommy Katie was in Baltimore with

Aunt Debby & Grand Mom Dot I had to stay

home with Daddy Wilson & watch the

geese in the creek.

Happy Saturday

Enjoy Your Weekend

Everything is Ducky With My New Camera!

2012-02-23T18:29:00.000-05:00

This is the first photo I took with my new Nikon D5100 camera.

... Everything is Ducky ...

I fell in love with this fabric & couldn't wait to make a dress.

I decided to make a matching bolero jacket.

Debby started this fleece coat but got frustrated with the lining.

She was going to toss it but I insisted she give it to me

to see what I could do. So I finished the sleeves,

added trim, and sparkle heart button.

Debby made the robe, pj top and bottom.

She gave me the left-over fabric and I had

enough to make a pillow. This set will go to my

friend Gail's niece who loves cheer leading.

From my second quilting class.

Putting the blocks together was not as easy as it looks.

Getting the corners to line up is tricky.

My homework is to add the border before out next class.

My darling husband decided I needed to upgrade my camera.

So ... here is my newest toy the ... Nikon D5100.

A new lens will give me a little more distance

for those photo's of geese in the creek.

My old camera the ... Nikon D3100 ... will be placed on E-bay.

We have the original box & manual. Should anyone be interested

in this camera prior to placement on E-bay please add

a comment on this post with your contact

information.

Thanks for stopping by for a visit.

Woof-Woof from Julep & Derby.

President's Day Famous Quotes

2012-02-20T10:47:00.001-05:00

In honor of President’s Day, here are 25 of the best President’s Day quotes.

1. I know only two tunes: one of them is ‘Yankee Doodle’, and the other one isn’t. -Ulysses S. Grant

2. I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world. -George Washington

3. If hard work is not another name for talent, it is the best possible substitute for it. -James Garfield

4. Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom. -Thomas Jefferson

5. You don’t get everything you want. A dictatorship would be a lot easier. -George W. Bush

6. Politics is supposed to be the second oldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first. -Ronald Reagan

7. We should live our lives as though Christ were coming this afternoon. -Jimmy Carter

8. Focusing your life solely on making a buck shows a certain poverty of ambition. It asks too little of yourself. … Because it’s only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you realize your true potential. -Barack Obama

9. There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America. -Bill Clinton

10. History, in general, only informs us what bad government is. -Thomas Jefferson

11. If men were angels, no government would be necessary. -James Madison

12. Think about every problem, every challenge, we face. The solution to each starts with education. -George H.W. Bush

13. The lesson of history is rarely learned by the actors themselves. -James A. Garfield

14. Order without liberty and liberty without order are equally destructive. -Theodore Roosevelt

15. Older men declare war. But it is the youth that must fight and die. -Herbert Hoover

16. When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. -Franklin D. Roosevelt

17. It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit. -Harry S. Truman

18. I am rather inclined to silence, and whether that be wise or not, it is at least more unusual nowadays to find a man who can hold his tongue than to find one who cannot. -Abraham Lincoln

19. Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him. -Dwight D. Eisenhower

20. I leave you, hoping that the lamp of liberty will burn in your bosoms until there shall no longer be a doubt that all men are created free and equal. -Abraham Lincoln

21. As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. -John F. Kennedy

22. The success of our popular government rests wholly upon the correct interpretation of the deliberate, intelligent, dependable popular will of America. -Warren Harding

23. The chief business of the American people is business. -Calvin Coolidge

24. No president who performs his duties faithfully and conscientiously can have any leisure. -James Polk

25. Officeholders are the agents of the people, not their masters. -Grover Cleveland

So Many Projects ... So Much Fun!

2012-02-19T19:19:00.002-05:00

My sister Debby spent two days with us.

On Friday we went to Salisbury to visit Billy

and clean his college apartment he shares

with three room mates. Honestly, it wasn't

bad at all. After lunch Deb and I went

to Hobby Lobby to check out fabrics.

Eating cheese popcorn and watching a movie.

Deb sure was a favorite of the westies during her stay.

I baked a Mash's Ham for dinner and it

turned out oh so very yummy. The

westies aren't cutting Debby a break while

she tries to eat. Julep [the relentless westie she is] did not

give up her pursuit to taste a piece of ham.

Deb left on Saturday and I followed her to Annapolis.

We paid a visit to JoAnn Fabrics, had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory

then I went by the Pet Barn to get dog food.

... ... ...

My stash of ribbon by Martha Stuart.

With all my projects I needed more room so

I had to purchase another table.

Patterns were on sale for $1.00 so I added

a few to my vast collection. I try and make one

outfit from each pattern.

Fabric I had to have from Hobby Lobby.

I love the ducks ... so spring and the

fairy frogs ... so summer.

An outfit I need to finish. I want to

sew three buttons on the top and there is one set of

snaps that need to go on the cuff.

I hate sewing on snaps.

I should have purchased the entire bolt of this fleece.

Why am I crazy for sock monkeys this year?

These four fabrics are from JoAnn's.

I like the pink and green fabric. I envision

an Spring dress for Olivia's American Girl doll.

I found a 'jelly roll' of pre-cut strips at Hobby Lobby.

This is the easy way out when you don't want to

cut your own.

Another project ... dog coats.

These are going to the small breed rescue

in Omaha, Nebraska on Monday.

The blue/brown coat is an extra-small made

from a new pattern.

This is the small made from the new pattern.

My new dog coat patterns.

Quilting class homework and project.

This is called a snowball block.

You take a light square and pin a different fabric

into each corner.

Then you take a ruler and pencil and draw a

diagonal line cutting the square in half.

Next step is to stitch over the pencil line.

Then it's to the ironing board ... fold over the top part

of the square above the stitched line

onto the bottom part of the square

and press top over bottom square.

This is what you get ... so easy!

So ... here is my 9 block table topper.

In class we'll sew the squares together,

then sew an edging around the entire perimeter,

and if we have time, quilt the top.

I'm learning a lot of fun things.

Have a great week and thanks for visiting.

Rainy Day - Baking Cookies - & - Waiting For Aunt Debby

2012-02-16T16:43:00.000-05:00

Julep & Derby in Pencil

A rainy day and a good day to bake cookies!

Aunt Debby will be here after work today.

She's spending the night and on Friday we're

going to Salisbury to visit my nephew at college.

Sorry Julep & Derby but you can't go.

Julep catching up on her beauty sleep.

She's going to be so excited to see Aunt Debby.

My baking helpers ... just waiting for a cookie crumb

to fall to the floor. I wanted to take Billy and his

three apartment mates some cookies so I made my

standard chocolate chips and tried a new recipe

called oatmeal, raisin, chocolate chip and cranberry cookies.

I think I baked enough to last them though the weekend.

I do have a feeling Debby & I will spend a little time cleaning the

apartment before we take Billy out to lunch.

After that I have two fabric stores targeted for

our shopping enjoyment. Now that I've started to

quilt, I can't have enough fabric!

All the best & take good care,

Katie

Westminster ... Did You Watch?

2012-02-15T09:52:00.000-05:00

Derby wasn't interested in Westminster this year.

He's out like a light and snoring.

I have to say I wasn't impressed with the westie in the terrier group.

For one thing did you notice the mouth area?

Lightly stained [even my westies don't have that!]

Then there was his head - the hair wasn't perfect.

I also thought the Scottie wasn't impressive.

Betsy, the Scottie [handled by Rebecca Cross] was

far superior than the one who made it into the terrier group finals.

We all know how 'political' dog shows are and I don't think

Westminister is any different. We did like the Sealy terrier

handled by Margery Good - it's the son of Charman

who has the most awards of any dog in the world.

Next up ... Krups!

Yes ... that' a westie for you ...

Strongly determined to get exactly what they want,

when they want it and not a second later!

... Derby ...

The subject of the new 'drop-in'

stock photography site I found.

He's such a handsome westie - it's

hard to believe Julep will be 4 in April

and Derby will be 3 in May.

Valentine Day Lunch at The Inn at Perry Cabin

2012-02-15T09:26:00.002-05:00

Julep & Derby enjoyed Valentine's Day at home

while we went out to lunch. When we came home

I decided to take them for a walk in

St. Michaels as a little Valentine Day treat.

The entrance to the Inn.

Spring arrangement in the Inn entrance.

We enjoyed a nice glass of wine with our lunch.

The view from our table.

I had the crabcake.

Wilson had the burger.

A collection of beautiful oyster plates.

Outside the dining room is the waiting area.

The table wrapped in rope - so nautical - so unusual.

The other section of the dining room with fireplace.

The Inn at Perry Cabin is a beautifully designed property.

We'll take the westies for lunch when it's warm

enough to eat outside on the patio overlooking the

Miles River and the St. Michaels Harbour.

A unique map of the eastern shore of Maryland.

My card from Wilson, my forever Valentine!

Oh, Holy Biscuits ... or ... She's At It Again!

2012-02-13T19:01:00.001-05:00

Derby ... throwing a fit!

... But I will find you!

Only Grand Mom can help you out of this

and she's in Baltimore!

Derby ... we didn't feed them this morning

so they're not coming to your rescue either!

And ... P.S. Derby

you're not hiding in my bed either!

Oh ... Holy Biscuits

She's [we all know who SHE is] has been at the

sewing machine again making coats for

Hands, Hearts & Paws Rescue in Omaha, NE.

As you are my witness SHE is trying to squeeze me into

another small coat to see how it looks.

Daddy Wilson ... can you help me?

Us guys have to stick together, right?

This is truly more than any westie male should have to put up with

maybe I should go back to my Mommy Ming.

Just so Julep wouldn't feel left out of modeling.

A new pattern with a Velcro closure - size small.

I'm not crazy about the neck - it looks big so I'll go

back to the other pattern.

In between making fleece coats for rescue

I made these American Girl outfits.

.. .. .. .. ..

Easter Bunnies & Carrots

Mod Print Hearts

St. Patty's Day

A beautiful 'Thank You' from Olivia & her Mom

2012-02-12T11:28:00.000-05:00

It was such a nice surprise to find this

beautiful card and note from Olivia &

her mom in yesterday's mail.

I'm so glad Olivia liked all the outfits.

Will be on the search to find a special fabric

so I can make a dress to send to

her for Easter.

A Valentine Smile For You

2012-02-11T21:51:00.001-05:00

Valentine Smile

On Valentine's Day we think of those
Who make our lives worthwhile,
Those gracious, friendly people who
We think of with a smile.

I am fortunate to know you,
That's why I want to say,
To a rare and special person:
Happy Valentine's Day!

By Joanna Fuchs

Big Westie Kisses

Coming Your Way

xoxoxo

Julep & Derby

Alize ... The 4 Pound Yorkie

2012-02-11T10:09:00.001-05:00

Rescued by: Hands, Hearts & Paws Animal Rescue

Located in: Omaha, Nebraska

When Alize was rescued she was very sick & about 3 pounds.

She had heart worms, a bad UTI infection & stones.

After spending time at the vet clinic

Alize is home, and she's doing great!

She gained a pound and is in very good hands.

My sewing project for this weekend is to make a few more

fleece coats to send out to Alize who

hopefully will grow out of the 'smaller than small' soon.

Alize is modeling her new fleece coat and

sitting on a new fleece blanket which was also donated.

Yes, she is definitely becoming a diva dog!

... Alize ...

If you have an interest in Alize please go to

http://stiehlosborn.blogspot.com/

Here you can send Karen an e-mail

to learn more about Alize.

...

HAVE A NICE WEEKEND

...

Photo Fun Thursday & Quilting 101

2012-02-09T10:18:00.002-05:00

Photo's [of Derby] were created using [the website] PhotoFunia.

--- --- ---

_ _ _ Quilting _ _ _

--- --- ---

While searching for Valentine Day quilt ideas

I came across this sweet little set for a doll bed.

Did I mention I'm taking a Quilting 101 class?

Our project: A nine-patch block quilt

What this means: A nine-patch block has 3 rows

of 3 squares each, like a tic-tac-toe board.

The squares' colors alternate from block to block.

Many traditional patchwork quilt blocks are

based on a variation of the nine-patch block.

The class is 3 sessions each 3 hours long.

This class is designed to give you the basic introduction

of how to create and sew a scrappy quilt.

JoAnn

JoAnn & I are sorta partners in crime [so to speak].

I talked JoAnn into going to the Bayside Quilter's Guild meeting

with me and she talked me into going to the Quilters 101 class [which

is taught by ladies from the Guild]. We're having fun!

Where Do We Start?

Steps to making a perfect quilt ... what I know so far:

Pressing seams properly is the difference between a quilter

whose work looks fabulous and one whose work is only okay

comes down to the ironing and pressing performed

during the quilt's construction.

Accurate cutting of your fabric strips using a rotary cutter,

a cutter mat, and ruler is critical not to mention

that perfect 1/4" seam is a must!

Choosing colors ... Oh, so many!

But First

What is the rule of threes?

The number 3 provides a comfortable framework

for creativity and design of all kinds and for

a beginner it offers a secure starting point

for designing.

Choosing the right color combination

and what I need to learn about color will come in time.

The class nine-patch squares arrangement is

top row fabric squares: dark, light, dark,

second row fabric squares ... light, dark, light

third row fabric squares: dark, light, dark

I need to learn the principles of color

such as ...

What is a complementary color scheme?

What is a split-complementary color scheme?

Where can I find color inspiration?

... and the list goes on ...

I do have a little quilting homework

so stay turned and I'll share after it's done.

... Wishing you a great day ...

Katie

Wrapped In Pink Tissue & Ready For Mailing!

2012-02-08T09:41:00.001-05:00

Julep & Derby were as excited as I was to

create a pretty box to send to Olivia.

These are the pieces paw-picked by

Julep & Derby. We hope she likes them.

A sprinkle or two of heart confetti

for added festivity.

Did I mention Olivia's favorite color is pink?

I passed Julep's inspection with flying colors.

It's time to get Julep and Derby

ready for a car ride to the post office

and then a walk around the harbour.

... ... ...

I'm not sure what my next project will be.

Maybe work with the Easter fabric from my sister

since I want to wait to hear about the sizing

on the 'smaller than small' fleece dog coat

for the little 4 pound rescue Yorkie.

Or ... I can finish my work from last

nights first Quilting 101 class.

[photo's of that later]

In any event ... I will do something

creative today ... that's for sure!

Enjoy your day & thanks for stopping

by my blog.

Practice Random Acts of Kindness . . . Do You?

2012-02-07T08:33:00.003-05:00

It's funny how ideas pop into my brain at strange times

[for a blog subject] like when I was playing with Derby yesterday.

Let me explain ... it all started while I was standing

in the cutting line at JoAnn's ...

I had a cart full of fleece [which was reduced to $4/yard]

that needed to be cut. Behind me was a lady
[named Bonnie] & her little girl [named Olivia].
Bonnie started a simple conversation saying
she purchased some of the blue and white fleece
for a project ... and we began to chat ...

Bonnie asked what project I was working on ...

So began my tale of making bandannas for rescued paws,

how I started making American Girl doll clothes,

and ...

now I'm now making dog coats for a

rescue group in Omaha, NE [who just

rescued a Yorkie weighing only 4 pounds and

who is very sick ... this smaller than small coat

I'm hoping will fit her].

Anyway ... back to the story ...

Bonnie said to Olivia ... did you just hear what

this lady said she makes ... American Girl clothes!

Olivia [as cute as she could be] covered her mouth,

her eyes grew big, and you could hear a

'really' from behind her hands.

So I decided right then and there I would practice a

random act of kindness.

I made a promise to Olivia.

I would send her an outfit for her

American Girl doll ... which is also name Olivia.

In Olivia's box will be this ...

This coat, hat, scarf & hand muff,

the princess dress [which I love so much]

and the long pink dress with purple hears and

a Valentine's Day pair of slacks, top and headband.

I think Olivia will be very pleased.

This is a matching scarf for Olivia [the little girl].

I think she's going to love this!

. . .

DO YOU PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS?

. . .

Random acts of kindness are a means by which we make

a deliberate attempt to brighten another person's

day by doing something thoughtful, nice, and caring for them.

Kindness is a way of showing others that they count and

that even in the face of hostility and selfishness,

you're making a stand for kindness.

Originally associated with Anne Herbert,

who is said to have once written

"Practice random acts of kindness and senseless acts of beauty"

on a place mat in a restaurant, this concept has become

an organized celebration through various events

around the world, as well as referring to a general

call to action in the name of kindness.

Be KIND

Kindness as an attitude is infectious.

When you're willing to share your kindness, others will be inspired

by your example and think about doing

something as kind themselves.

Be THOUGHTFUL

Random acts of kindness can be shown through

thoughtfulness about the needs of others.

How many times do you wish someone could have

been more thoughtful before they did or said something?

USE YOUR MANNERS AS A FORM OF KINDNESS

Manners aren't dead, they've just been forgotten in many ways.

Yet, manners are the bedrock of courteous and kind relations

and their use is an indication of respect for others.

Hold doors open for others, hold an umbrella over someone

in the rain, and be on time for everyone you've promised to meet.

GIVE OUT COMPLIMENTS GENEROUSLY

There's usually an awkward silence when you're stuck in an

elevator or waiting in a queue with a stranger.

Instead of staring at the floor, find something you like

about the other person and compliment him/her on it.

Not only will it make him/her feel good, it just might

kick off a conversation with a new friend.

CHEER UP THE LONELY

Lonely people are everywhere, in all walks of life, of all ages.

Helping lonely people to feel wanted is a hugely

rewarding random act of kindness.

VOLUNTEER

Offer helping hands.

Do you ever see homeless people and feel overwhelmed

by your inability to make a difference?

Even if you can't save them all, you can do a lot with one small act.

Buy a pair of gloves or dig up an old blanket, and give them

to someone who's living in the cold streets

or to any organization that serves the homeless.

SHARE A LITTLE WEALTH AROUND

Why not surprise someone completely by paying

for something they were expecting to pay for?

SHARE A SMILE

When meeting a new person, or even chatting

with an old one, express joy.

Show that you're happy to be with them,

and that they make you happy.

EXPECT NOTHING

The greatest act of kindness is the one that is freely

given because you care about another person

and want them to be happy and you don't expect anything in return.

The thing about kindness is that it has its own

rewards and will improve your sense of

well-being and happiness;

what more could you possibly want?

. . .

TODAY MY ACT OF KINDNESS WILL BE

. . .

PREPARING A BEAUTIFUL BOX OF DOLL CLOTHING

WHICH I'LL WRAP IN PINK TISSUE PAPER

AND MAIL TO OLIVIA WHO WITHOUT

KNOWING IT IS THE REASON

BEHIND TODAY'S POST OF

REMEMBERING TO

PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS.

. . .

YESTERDAY'S ACT OF KINDNESS WAS

. . .

MAKING & MAILING 2 FLEECE COATS TO

THE RESCUE GROUP IN OMAHA

FOR THE SICK LITTLE YORKIE.

. . .

WHAT

WILL

YOUR

RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS

TODAY?

The Language of Flowers

2012-02-04T21:23:00.001-05:00

The Talbot County Visual Arts Center

hosted a mix-media art show and reception

last night. Members and guest could

submit up to three pieces of art.

Of course ... Wilson & I entered the max!

Honorable Mention

for

Fuchsia from Longwood

We were surprised to receive a phone call late

yesterday afternoon saying that Wilson & I both

won a place in the winners circle.

This was a first for me!

Accepting the Honorable Mention Ribbon.

Water Lily & Dragon Fly

I didn't know which one of my three photo's won.

[Actually I thought this was the photo that took the ribbon.]

Star Gazer's

This was my third submission.

Our friends Lloyd & JoAnn met us there

then we were off to dinner at Brightwell's.

JoAnn taking a look at my photo.

Water Lily I

Wilson accepted 3rd place for this photo.

I'd rather have roses on my table than

diamonds on my neck. ~ Emma Goldman

[speak for yourself Emma!]

One of my favorites.

The Language of Flowers was a very well

received show and the submissions

and talent exceeds all the expectations

of the Arts Center.

The Pink Bed Mission

2012-02-03T08:53:00.001-05:00

Change in strategy needed ...

from getting Julep to play to getting

Julep out of that bed & making that bed mine.

Derby is going to consult the Gnome in the Jar

for help on the Pink Bed Mission.
He's looking for suggestions ... so if you have any
just leave them in the comment
section and I'll pass them along
[in secret of course!]

Who Doesn't Love 70 Degrees in February!

2012-02-02T10:15:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love 70 degrees in February

on the eastern shore of Maryland?

It was to lovely to stay inside ... so I took the westies

for a car ride to Easton to drop off 6 photographs

we're entering in an exhibit hosted by the

Talbot County Visual Arts Center called

The Language of Flowers.

Then it was back to St. Michaels for a sniff-around

and walk around the park and harbour area.

I'm ready to go ... I want to go now ...

Get me out of this house!

We're going for a walk & we're totally excited!

Hurry up Julep ... you're impeding my walk!

Mine ... Mine ... Mine

Let me at that furry little thing.

Here squirrelly ... squirrelly ... squirrelly

Now that the squirrel has moved on to bigger and better things

it's one more time around the park and harbour

for the westies before we head home.

Sunrise Over Leadenham Creek

Who doesn't love a beautiful sunrise?

Snowdrops

The Moon

While taking photo's of the geese and canvasbacks

from the dock I saw the moon so I snapped one

photo not knowing if it would turn out.

Geese

The honkers are making their way to the cove on the other side

of our neighbors dock where they will settle in for the night.

Canvasback Ducks

Hundreds have landed and are in the upper part of

our creek slowly making their way past our dock.

What's This About A Sock Monkey?

2012-01-31T18:40:00.000-05:00

Derby has to wonder [and so do I]

if I take a white sock with a black heel

could we possibly make a

SOCK WESTIE?

Just finished sock monkey Pj's.

I'm a sock monkey fan ... are you?

[little secret - my husband [Wilson] never

heard of a sock monkey before ... can you believe this?]

The little heart bear is almost finished but I'm still not happy

with the way it turned out. Would it be strange to have a

bear out of sock monkey fabric?

LET'S HAVE A LITTLE HISTORY LESSON

SOCK MONKEYS

Sock Monkeys are a classic example of American Folk Art.

Though, it’s not known who created the first sock monkey,

whoever it was, I’m sure had no idea their creation

would delight children & adults into the 21st century.

John Nelson, the proprietor of Nelson Knitting Mills,

Rockford, Illinois, is credited for designing the Rockford Red Heel®

work sock. The purpose of the red heel was to distinguish his

socks from other manufactures. Later, this red heel became the

Sock Monkey’s signature smile and interesting ‘behind‘.

LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO

T - H - E S - O - C - K

THAT STARTED IT ALL!

Some sources have the Sock Monkey first being made during the

Depression, while others date it in 1950.

Either way, the Nelson Knitting Mills, recognized that their

Rockford Red Heel® work sock was the foundation

of the Sock Monkey and received a patent in 1953.

Soon after, they began including a Sock Monkey

pattern in every package of their unique work socks.

In 1992 Fox River® Mills Inc. of Osage, Iowa, took

over the Nelson Knitting Co. and carries on the red heel tradition.

But Rockford, Illinois remains “The Home of The Sock Monkey“,

he's proudly represented in the local museum at Midway Village Center.

The Sock Monkey’s popularity declined in the 60‘s,

but never vanished from the folk art market.

In 2001, Dee Linder (aka the Sock Monkey Lady) sparked

a resurgence of interest with her website.

Today, if you google Sock Monkey, there are over 1 million sites.

KEEPING WITH THE THEME OF MONKEYS

.*.*.*.

This is a bathrobe my sister Debby made for

me to give to my friend Gail.

{Debby is busy working on the matching pj's}

Guess it's time for me to go back and

'monkey around' at my sewing machine!

What Julep & Derby Do While I Sew

2012-01-29T09:38:00.001-05:00

Julep & Derby are in my dressing room playing

with one of my slippers. As a westie mom they

don't realize I have eyes in the back of my head

[and a camera in hand].

Their favorite spot to play in is between

my pant legs [which are covered in white fur].

Julep lets Derby take the lead in playing [at times].

I think she baits him & then the alpha kicks back in

and she takes control again [it all seems to work].

Since I was taking pictures of the westies in my dressing room

... here is my small collection of fabric.

Fleece is parked on the shelf above.

I enjoy jazzing up my creations with a little

trim work, buttons or bows.

The latest finished dress.

Next project: Pj's from sock monkey fabric.

Derby made it loud and clear [to me] that he's

NOT going to be subjected to trying on the

'small' fleece coat. He went so far as saying he would

be calling his paw-torney if I even put that thing

next to his body! Well ... I never!

This is the 'small' fleece coat [referred to above].

It's been shipped to a small breed rescue group

in Omaha, NE with the 'medium' coat and a stack

of tiny bandanna's.

Debby just finished this Valentine's Day dress.

She is working on a robe & nightgown from

fabric she found with monkey's dressed in cheer leading

outfits for me to pass on to my friend Gail

who's niece loves cheer leading.

Yes . . . Derby you can sample one of the new treats.

Let's find Julep first.

Expensive as they are ... I still buy them.

J&D are totally in love with the ETTA SAYS!

Duck Meat Treats. With their K-9 Kravings raw food

diet I left the Pet Barn a $100.00 richer
and me $100.00 poorer!

We now have a dehydrator [thanks Mom]

and we'll try our hand at making treats at home.

Dinner with Friends and a Movie with George Clooney

2012-01-27T10:30:00.002-05:00

Here's Julep helping me get ready for our company.

Checking to be sure the wine glasses and snacks are in perfect order.

Yes, Julep we're ready for our dinner guests JoAnn & Lloyd.

She's smelling the cheese straws and trying to figure out how to get them.

A simple and casual dinner was in the making.

Wilson decided on a new recipe for Antipasto Salad

from Cook's Country magazine.
It has a lots of stuff to make every bite interesting ...

artichoke hearts, sliced pepperoncini, romaine, cherry tomatoes,
provolone cheese, red onion, sliced salami, kalamata olives and
basil leaves all tossed in a red wine vinegar dressing
[which you cook then refrigerate until you're ready].

The main course was Wilson's Chicken Parmesan

with Pomodoro Sauce [forgot to photograph the sauce].

We found this recipe [a long time ago] in a cookbook called

Longhi's - Recipes and Reflections From Maui's

Most Opinionated Restaurant
[we've been to Longhi's while on vacation in Maui]

Wonder if George had any meals in Longhi's since
the movie we're watching is filmed in Hawaii!
[did you figure out which movie I'm talking about?]

Gifts from JoAnn & Lloyd

Homemade westie treats by JoAnn's Doggie Bakery

The westies went crazy over these ...

How sweet it was of JoAnn to make these from scratch
for Julep & Derby.

Lloyd is telling us how he designed and shaped
the westie treat [above].
Could there be a new profession in Lloyd's future

as dog treat designer?

Also in our goodie bag ...

was a candle for me and
a very nice bottle of red wine for Wilson.
We'll share, of course!

The Westies and Treats

... ... ...

Now onto the movie ... we watched

THE DESCENDANTS

starting none other than

Mr. George Clooney

REVIEW BY: ROLLING STONE

Don't worry. The Descendants isn't Hamlet or anything with crowns.
Still, Clooney's Matt King, a workaholic semi-schlub of a
Honolulu attorney, is descended from royal blood:
His great-great-grandmother was a Hawaiian princess
who married a haole (white) banker and passed on a rich
chunk of real estate. As the primary beneficiary of 25,000
acres of Kauai paradise, Matt must decide to keep the land
unspoiled or sell it to developers to please an army of
cousins, led by a hilariously greedy Beau Bridges.

All in all it was a good movie but I have to wonder if George

just wanted a paid working vacation in Hawaii for a few months.
Of course, I won't tell you what George decided to
do with the land, you'll have to find out
that for yourself.
If you've seen this movie ... tell me what you think.

Don't Play With That Blueberry

2012-01-26T09:14:00.000-05:00

I gave Julep a fresh blueberry knowing darn well she wouldn't eat it.

You see I've been down this road before with blueberries.

For some reason neither westie will eat a fresh or frozen blueberry

but they LOVE dried blueberries ... so every morning

they have 4 dried blueberries after breakfast.

It was funny watching Julep & Derby attack the blueberry.

I did get it off my carpet before it went to total mush.

... ... ...

Sewing

Flannel Nightgown & Teddy Bear

This turned out so cute I'm in the process of making this

pattern again only in cotton which will be a dress.

The stuffed teddy bear is okay but boy was it difficult to

sew around all the turns in this small pattern.

Headscarf ... which was simple to make.

I added some fancy stitches to jazz it up.

Why, Oh Why, Do I Have To Be Groomed?

2012-01-24T22:28:00.000-05:00

Derby

{if looks could kill}

Derby is not a happy camper since he was picked first

for a bath, blow-dry and trim.

This is really more than any westie should have to put up with!

I'm going to write my union westie-rep.

I've been standing for more than 5 minutes and not even a sip of water.

Maybe if I look out the window he'll take the

hint that I really don't like what he's doing to me.

Don't you point that 'thing' at me ... Mr. Groomer-man.

I escaped ... hahahaha ... they won't get me back on that table.

Little does Derby know that Mr. Groomer-man

will be back on Monday to finish him and work on Julep.

Sewing Projects

2012-01-24T22:14:00.000-05:00

American Girl Size Pillows

I wanted to try something new, fun & fast so I made these pillows.

Don't you think they're cute? I like the fabric combination

because it's so bright and cheery.

These will be going to my sister for her next distribution to

the little girls she sews for.

These outfits were made my Debby.

I really like the heart ballerina dress.

Getting ready for warmer weather.

Something Not Right With The Fit!

2012-01-21T19:22:00.000-05:00

Branching out from my normal sewing [of you know what] I decided

to try my hand at making a fleece coat for one of the westies.

I studied at the pattern pieces and figured out that a medium would

probably fit Julep. Was I way off base and as you'll see

from this photo series the medium barely fit Derby.

xxx Scratch This Sewing Project xxx

{Maybe a medium for a midget dog!}

Well we didn't have to get the scissors but it was a

struggle to get this off Derby. I'm thinking of

sending this to a small breed rescue group.

Princess, Frog Prince, Fairytale Castle & Hearts

2012-01-21T10:18:00.002-05:00

Sewing Projects Completed

I love the princess & frog prince fabric and the way this dress turned out.

It's hard to tell but there are two layers of trim along the bottom.

I may have to keep this simply because it does have little white dogs on it.

Then again I have two dresser drawers chock full of finished 18"

doll clothing that I'm not sure what to do with.

SEE THEM AT

www.katiesews4fun.blogspot.com

I could sell them on E-bay but then again my

sewing is not perfect ... suggestions?

I certainly don't want to turn into a doll clothes hoarder!

It would be terrible to be on TV as one of those folks needing their

home cleaned out because [in my case] stacks and stacks of doll clothing

from floor to ceiling!

Hearts & Checks

This is a new pattern which took extra time

due to all the ruffles needing to be set.

None the less, it is cute also!

Quite Around The House

2012-01-21T09:27:00.000-05:00

With Daddy Wilson away in the Big Apple ... New York City

I'm in the process of completing projects.

First up ... Julep helps me measure out fabric for a

new tablecloth for the dining room table. This is

not a fancy sewing job, just simple straight stitches.

Mission accomplished: done and on the table.

Here we go again with the house so quiet the westies are bored.

I haven't turned on the TV since Wilson left on Thursday.

Julep misses her Daddy Wilson and waits for his return.

[secretly she misses the extra treats he gives her]

I gave up trying to keep the back of the sofa in perfect order.

This is the westies domaine ... from the time they were pups.

Thank goodness when we were looking at sofa's I insisted

on strong and pet-friendly fabric.

The Boy

We never know what spot we'll find Derby in.

This westie is a mover - he goes from one sleeping spot to the next.

As a pup he hated his crate because there wasn't enough room.

I'm not sure if I've posted the mint julep cups before.

These are so hard to get a good photo of.

In any event, when the westies were wee pups

these were gifts from our dear friends JoAnn & Lloyd.

Right now J&L are puppy-less and hopefully in the spring

they will have a new puppy playing in their house.

THANKS FOR VISITING

HAVE A NICE WEEKEND

Fun Photo's of Derby & Julep

2012-01-20T11:56:00.001-05:00

Today at the Scottie Chronicles blog is

* * * Friday's Foto Fun with Friends * * *

The subjects of today's photo's are none other than

our precious westies Julep and Derby. We love these photo's.

Go over and give a big woof to Stuart the Scottie

and read his Daily Digest at

http://scottiechronicles.com/

Thank you ... Thank you ... Thank you ... Stuart the Scottie

{and Stuart's personal assistant}

for adding Julep and Derby to your Friday's Foto Fun.

Going For A Ride . . .

2012-01-19T10:23:00.000-05:00

This morning we're taking Wilson to the train station.

He's off to the Big Apple ... New York City ...

for a writers conference with the focus on self-publishing.

We'll be stopping at grand mom and grand daddy's

house before we head back home. Sunday we'll make the trip back

into Baltimore to pick up Wilson but before we head over

to the train station we'll stop back in to see

grand mom and grand daddy and have lunch with Aunt Debby.

I've got a lots of sewing projects to get done while Wilson is away.

Sun Bathing in the Dining Room

2012-01-18T11:59:00.000-05:00

Today is one of the colder days we've had so far this winter.

I found Julep sleeping on the dining room rug [before I woke her up] in a nice patch

of sunlight. I'm hoping the sun bathing will help her snow nose.

Julep will get her pigmentation back in the spring or if we take her

to Florida on vacation which isn't a bad idea!

Grooming is scheduled for next week.

I'll be glad to get them both cleaned up as I can only do so much.

Keep Warm!

2012-01-17T22:14:00.000-05:00

Julep and Derby playing or are they talking about all

the sewing projects I completed.

Valentine's Day dress with matching headband.

I Woof You slacks, top, ruffled skirt and headband.

New flannel fabric I found today at JoAnn's.

I'm not sure what I'll create from this fabric

... any ideas?

Toys on the Floor

2012-01-16T09:25:00.000-05:00

For those that follow me on Facebook you know I've been sick with the flu. It hit me out of the blue while grocery shopping on Friday. You see we had a little dinner party set for Saturday night with dear friends JoAnn & Lloyd. Wilson was making his Chicken Parm with a new salad recipe he spotted in Cook's Country simply called Antipasto Salad. We were also going to watch The Descendants while eating warm apple pie with vanilla ice cream ... and unfortunately all that didn't work because I was sick. BooHoo.

In the meantime, I'm starting to feel better and

the westies are house-bound bored.

Just how bored are the westies?

So bored they started pulling out toys to play with!

Toys that haven't been touched in about 8 months!

All in all the westies were perfect little nurses

never leaving my side while I was in bed.

Take care my friends

and

May the flu bug miss your house this year.

Westies, Deer Herd and Squirrels

2012-01-12T10:40:00.001-05:00

Photo's from a few days ago when we had multiple visitors to the yard

which was pure entertainment for the westies {a herd of deer and squirrels}.

All this made the westies dizzy with excitement.

Can you spot the deer in this photo?

This is 1 of 6 that came by to snack on various goodies in our woods.

I managed to get my camera before the westies knew Mr. Deer was so very close

... then all hell broke loose as you can only imagine!

If the herd of deer wasn't bad enough ... the squirrels decided to torment them even more.

These little fur-creatures don't care about the dogs barking.

They will sit up in the tree [by the deck] and just look down at J&D.

One of these days they're going to slip off that branch into the mouths

of two eager and squirrel hungry westies.

Running as the deer run through the woods.

That look on Derby's face is saying ... deer alert, deer alert!

Through the woods and across our driveway into our neighbors woods.

....

On Another Note

This is the latest dress with matching headband I made for my

friend [Gail's] niece who is into cheer leading.

I'm currently working on a ruffled skirt, slacks, top & headband using

Valentine's Day fabric with little white dogs, hearts, & I Woof You.

Full Moon A Risin'

2012-01-12T10:17:00.000-05:00

A full moon rising gives Derby light to watch the bunny eat dinner.

The heron weather vane at docks end.

The moon from the end of our dock.

I need a 'longer' camera lens to get better photo's.

[Will note to put that little item on my birthday wish list.]

All the bunny-barking got Derby in a playful mood.

I have to wonder what he's thinking with that look on his face.

Time to put the toys away & go to bed.

Bayside Quilters Meeting

2012-01-12T10:04:00.000-05:00

JoAnn and I attended the January meeting of the Bayside Quilters Guild.

Here are a few of the pieces on display that were made by members.

The ladies with parasols on this quilt are hand appliqued.

This piece was created using vintage pieces of fabric passed down from her grandmother.

A bright and cheerful quilt full of color.

And ... So We Did ...

2012-01-10T10:36:00.000-05:00

AND ... SO WE DID ...

LET

SLEEPING

DOGS

LIE

AFTER PLAYING

IN THE SNOW

ALL DAY

The First Official Snow Day!

2012-01-09T17:02:00.000-05:00

Finally ... we're getting some snow here on the eastern shore.

Wet furnishing = getting the hairdryer ready for when they come in.

The type of snow I like ... just enough to look pretty.

Derby running like a little crazy westie.

Derby came in with a big wet snowflake laying right on the tip of his nose

and ... as luck would have it ... I had my camera ready.

Ode To A Westie

2012-01-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Ode To A Westie

W for White as he should be
E   for Eagerness all must see
S   for Sight keen the quarry to spy
T   for Terrier spirit and never say die

H   for the Happiness they always bring
I   for Inquisitive ... doing their own thing
G   for Good measure in such a small frame
H   for Hi there, how about a game?
L   for their Laughter and love in their hearts
A   for Amenable right from the start
N   for Not minding if Mum should look stern
D   for Delight upon her return

W for Welcome, so warm ans so nice
H   for Hunting and catching those mice
I    for Intelligence ... more than most
T   for Top Dog ... no idle boast
E  for Evermore Westies ... our toast!
Anonymous.

H ... is for hunting ... those squirrels on the loose in the park!

Today Is: NATIONAL SHORTBREAD DAY!

2012-01-06T13:52:00.002-05:00

A Little History
Shortbread is traditional recipe from Scotland, it evolved from the Medieval biscuit bread.
The main difference is that shortbread has butter instead of yeast.
Butter in Scotland has a higher butterfat content 86% compared to 80% in North America.

Shortbread is a common celebration food in Scotland.
It is sometimes broken over the head of a new bride and eaten during holidays
such as Christmas and New Years.

The traditional shape of shortbread is a circle that has been cut into triangles.
Food historians believe that this design represented the sun, which leads some
people to believe that shortbread was inspired my the Pagan yule
cakes (sun cakes) which the Pagans ate on New Years Eve.

Today you often see sticks of shortbread as well as assorted shapes.

Chocolate, jelly and nut toppings are also increasing in popularity.

Here's a link to savory shortbread recipes when you’re in the mood to bake!

http://allrecipes.com/recipes/desserts/cookies/butter-cookies/shortbread-cookies/top.aspx

Baron & Derby

2012-01-04T17:21:00.000-05:00

Ginger [who is Baron's caregiver] just e-mailed a photo of Baron at the groomers.

You see, Baron and Derby are brothers.

They both are handsome little westie dudes!

I just remember I had these of Derby at the groomers after I created

the collage above.

Back To Sewing!

2012-01-04T17:08:00.000-05:00

With the busy holiday season now over I'm ready to get back

into the swing of sewing clothing for the 18" doll.

This is the first hat I made - it was easy but I did a lot of

hand finishing work around the brim and underside.

Guess I better start sewing especially with all the fabric my sister gave me for Christmas.

This is one of those pieces of fabric.

I love adding tiny details to the clothing I make

like hand-sewing the trim around the collar.

As my sister once told me ...

Sewing is her happy place ... and guess what ... it's mine also!