Fall Decorating Straight From Your Garden

Today was a simply beautiful day!

I couldn't wait to run my quilt through the wash and get it out on the line.

I used the Turning Twenty Quilt pattern for this quilt in lot's of Shabby Chic Fabrics and backed it with a cozy flannel.

Back to the clothes line ~ I could stare at a quilt blowing in the wind for hours.

It reminds me of my Grama ~ she would fill the clothesline first thing Sat. morning in hopes of getting several loads washed and dried by the days end.

She worked full time and I remember her rushing in from a day at work and quickly tying her Clothespin Apron around her waist to get a load dried before the summer night closed in on us.

She NEVER left clothes on the line over night.

i confess i do it all the time

While I was outside ~ I gathered a handful of hydrangea to do some fall decorating that cost exactly $0.

I stuffed them in the summer wreath that was already on the door.

Then I pulled out the half dead impatiens from the Urn by the front door and added a pumpkin and gourds from the kitchen table.

The white gourds are from my garden.

I grew them quite easily by throwing some I had had several years ago off the deck ~ smashing them into the retaining wall just for fun!

pretending it was a certain someones head

The seeds grew new gourds the next year ~ and I have continued the painless process every year since!

Try this link for some easy fall decorating idea's.

The Barnes Museum in Southington, Ct & A Visit to Martha Stewart Studios In New York City

Frank and I were walking back to our car from the Apple Festival in Southington when we stumbled on this museum.
The Barnes Museum is a large stately home left completely in tact when the elderly couple that had lived there passed away.



I thought of my sewing and crazy quilting friends the entire time we toured this beautiful home.
Here is a sampling of the beautiful purses in the collection.

EvThe turn of every corner brought another heirloom ......

This beautiful shell was in the study.

This is a picture of the lady of the house and her daughter ~ look at the beautiful pillow!

Look closely ~ the crochet pieces are hand stitched bra's!

This is a crazy quilted bowl! Don't ya love it!!!

A sewing box located in the study that I wanted to dive in to!

Can you imagine how beautiful this glass collection looks with a strong afternoon sun pouring in the window!

The housekeepers of this home used these to cover the hot irons so they could be carried to the ironing board
they were so efficient.....

......which brings to mind my mentor Martha Stewart.

I have officially lost track of how many trips to the Martha Stewart Show I have made!
This past week I made another trip to the city to see the show.
A food bus was parked where we waiting in line outside ~ we were able to get one food item and one drink
on Martha!

Once inside ~ these pictures line the walls of the holding area before you are brought to the studio.

Sweet Joey warming us up ~ being silly and telling us who was going to be on the show that day.

It is nothing but the blessing of the Lord ~ the fact that they seated me in the front row AGAIN!!!!
This time I was seated next to the parents of the girl giving the craft demonstration.
Pictured is the craft area set up for her.
It was at this point my camera battery began running out of juice!

Francis Mallmann was the guest chef on the show.
We all received his new book "Seven Fires" ~ amazing recipes about grilling on an open flame outdoors.

Below is Martha with her endless legs ~ talking to us after the show.
She said not to tell anyone (so shhhh ~ keep it a secret) but she no longer uses any oil but Olive oil
and there by no longer cooks banana and zucchini bread etc.
There is a new book out about bad health effect of oil to our bodies.
I forgot the name of the book but it greatly influenced her decisions about oil.

She also hates truffle oil of any kind.
I know most find it nauseating that I hang on to her every word.
I knew you'd want to know that!

After the show ~ I went to visit Kinokuniya Book Store across from Bryant Park.
OH WOW ~ what a place. I used up my spending money there and was not able to get
the silks I had wanted on 7Th Avenue ~ next time!

I purchased books that are written in Japanese ~ I'm hoping to be able to use the pictures to create some of the projects shown.

Sorry they are sideways ~ I was not able to rotate them for some reason.

The tiny fabric rolls were pricey for the tiny bits but I will make good use of them for crazy quilting.

I'm not sure if they are silk ~ it is a thick, silky fabric.

No trip to the city is complete without stopping by Juniors in Times Square.
When I am in the city alone ~ this is where I enjoy stopping for a bite to eat.
I always take a piece of cheesecake with me for the train ride home!
You can have this yummy stuff shipped RIGHT TO YOUR HOUSE!
I was only able to eat a 1/4 of this meal ~ I STILL keep thinking of those big fat pickles and wish I had at least taken a bite!!

As a special treat ~ here is the link to

Juniors Cheesecake Recipe

YUP ......the REAL deal! You MUST try it!

Let's Chit Chat About Sewing ,Chicken Dinner,Matzo Ball Soup,Blue Crabs and Saluna!

I thought we could chat about this and that.

Since I have my Mom on my mind who will be having some surgery this week ~ let me share a gift I recently made for her.

It is a simple crazy quilted coaster.

I purchased the coaster kit at Michaels for just a few $.

It comes with the cork bottom and cross stitch fabric and pattern.

I stitched a crazy quilted circle using the paper insert as a pattern. Such an easy way to make a loving and persoalized gift that is quick to put together.
Anyone can use a pretty coaster for their morning coffee or tea ~ I already have more kits on hand for Christmas gifts!

I started the Chicken Hot Pads for my etsy shop but keep finding folks to give them to!

I love using the retro fabrics and making my own patterns from pictures in magazines!

Speaking of chicken ~ I have wanted to share one of my favorite kitchen gadgets ~
this chicken roaster that allows you to roast your chicken up right.
It sits on 4 prongs that are attached to a dish at the bottom.

I always use organic chicken ~ stuffing sage and other herbs I have on my patio right under the skin.

( You can see the it at the top of the chicken)

I put stuffing or a whole onion in the cavity and put an all natural chicken bullion cube in the tray.
Pour a bit of water over the chicken that you have sprinkled with pepper.
Roast on a cookie sheet until done ~ about 75 minutes.
It is always perfectly cooked ~ moist with crispy skin.

I bought my roaster at TJ Maxx about 10 years ago but I still see it there and HomeGoods
from time to time. It is only about $6.00!

The next day ~ I made Matzo Ball Soup with the left over chicken.

Frank and my son Franky were hungry for a Hungarian Treat called Saluna so the soup was a perfect pair with this!

Saluna is made by heating pork fat over a fire ,then melting the fat on Rye bread filled with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers,onions and peppers.

I know what your thinking but trust me ~ this stuff is GOOD!!!!

My son and I were getting the Saluna ready when my husband called and said he was bringing home Blue Crabs!!!

That might not mean much to you but I'm a Maryland girl ~ YOU KNOW ~ from the Chesapeake Bay ~ Blue Crab Nation!!!

We sat by the fire eating Saluna sandwiches until dark ~ then came upstairs to dive into our Blue Crabs and beer!

Cooking blue crabs is easy ~ add a few dashes of vinegar into boiling water a few inches deep, cover the crabs with GOBS of Old Bay Seasoning.

No Maryland native will be without it in their kitchen ~ regardless of their current geography!

Old Bay is also good on Potato Salad, Home fries, macaroni salad, and deviled eggs.

When I was walking up from my back yard ~ I happen to look at my house from the outside in.

What someone else would see if they were walking by.

The kitchen looked warm and inviting ~ I felt so thankful

for my little house. Modest,nothing fancy but Home!

OKAY ALREADY ~ enough with the sentiment ~ We HAVE CRABS to EAT!!!!

Our retaining wall is dripping with mums right now !
These have proved to be the nicest ones I have ever had and
we got them last year at Home Depot for next to nothing.
I am not a flower snob ~ every flower and flowering weed looks pretty to me!

Finding the bright side of things isn't so hard ~ see this view below?

It is what I look at when I look out my window.

It is a very ugly roof in disrepair from a store at the bottom of my yard and

a Friendlys Restaurant .

See this view below?

It is what I see DIRECTLY above the Friendlys Restaurant.

In a couple more weeks ~ this will explode with color as the trees turn red and gold.

When I look down ~ THAT.

When I look UP ~ THIS.

Psalm 121:1 "I will lift up my eyes to the hills......my help comes from the Lord."

So remember when you fall flat on your face ~

or someone pushes you down with a nasty word ~ LOOK UP!

By the way ~ this is the view from the inside of my window ;)

These are some of the last flowers from my garden of the season.

Notice the beautiful Tea Cozy my pal Pat made for me one Christmas.

Try this the day after your next Chicken Dinner!

Matzo Ball Soup

Simmer left over chicken bones until meat begins to fall off of bones.

Remove all bones and add leftover chicken meat, gravy and any vegetables.

Add a diced onion, the entire heart of a head of celery , 3 carrots sliced, pepper, a chicken bouillon cube.

I like to simmer this for 2 hours.

Use Streits Matzo Ball Mix (don't get the kind that includes the soup mix ~ it is far too salty)

Follow direction on box but I will include them here ~

1. Mix 2 large eggs with 1/4 cup oil
2. Add contents of matzo package and mix until uniform.Let stand 15 minutes.
3. Using wet hands, form matzo onto balls about the size of walnuts.
4. Drop balls into boiling broth, cover tightly and reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

Fall in New England ~ The Big E, Yankee Candle in Deerfield and Shelburn Falls, Mass.

Hi Friends!

Fall is in full swing here in Connecticut and brings with it the urge to get as much fun and day tripping as possible in before settling for another cold winter.

We have traveled about an hour north to the state of Mass. four times in the last month.

I thought you might enjoy some of the sites.

  We went to The Eastern States Expo ~ know as the BIG E three times.

Mass, New Hampshire,Connecticut,Vermont and Maine all have beautiful stately houses set up permanently on location.

As you enter each "state" you will find the food and products they are famous for.

All the same laws and taxes that apply in each state apply in each house.

For example in the Vermont house ~ there was NO TAX!!

                                           You may start off thinking you are going just to enjoy the sweet animals.....

But it really all comes down to the food!

This Mac and Cheese didn't last long!

Look at the size of the potato my son is eating!

There are craftsman and sculptures of butter.......

Entertainers like this guy from the Supremes .....and my own family who can be quite entertaining!

You'll find beautiful quilts......also cool art sculpture.I was hoping to go home with this dreamy glider ~

but settled for some yummy Vermont cheese.

Yankee Candle Flagship Store

This past week-end we found ourselves in Deerfield, Mass at the Yankee Candle Flagship Store.

Here you see the way their lovely candles used to be made ........

You will find Christmas scenes, Koa ponds and tons of candy choices at this wonderful attraction.Outside everything was decked out for fall.To all my Farmville fans ~ LOOK a PINK cow!

                                                            Shelburne Falls
                                         Next we went about 30 minutes north of Deerfield to Shelburne Falls, Mass.

                                       We found many artisan studios and the breathtaking glacial potholes and waterfalls.
                                                                 It is a cute little hippy town with friendly people.

No matter which direction you decide to head from your Home Sweet Home ~

make the most of this beautiful time of year!

Get out and enjoy the beauty around you!

                                                                 I'd like to share this special recipe with you.

My first visit to the Big E over 27 years ago ~ my husband took me there on a date.

It was one of the top 10 day's I have spent with him ~ even to this day.

Our favirote sampling of food was the Finnish Pancakes in the Mass. House.

We took a recipe and after we were married ~ he would often make it on Sat. mornings.

It is like a custard ~ served warm with maple sytup ~ there is nothing finer!

Finnish Pancakes

8 large eggs ,1 cup flour

1 qt fresh milk , 1/4 lb butter

3-4 Tbsp sugar , 1 tsp. salt

1 tsp salt cooking spray

Spray 12' x 16' pan generously with cooking spray, then melt butter in pan. Mis thoroughly with beater: eggs, milk,sugar, salt, and flour. Pour mixture over melted butter. Bake in 450 oven for 20-23 minutes. Serve with Maple Syrup, jelly or butter.

Remembering the Last Days of Summer ~ Yankee Stadium, Rotted Deck and a Great Zucchini Bread Recipe

There is no denying it ~ Fall is in the air in Connecticut.

The most colorful places to visit in my garden are the places where the mums, hydrangea and morning glory reside.

I love the little Welcome Sign that holds a Mum plant ~ found at Home Depot!

I have to share with you the story of the peaches and grapes pictured below.

Do you remember last year I told you about my neighbor Tino ?

He passed away many years ago but I have never stopped missing him.

He spoke broken Italian ~ I understood his actions more than words.

He pruned my grape vines and planted flowers in my garden next to his house ~ never asking ~ just doing.

I loved watching him tend to his enormous garden in the back.

When he died ~ I pulled up one of the grape vines from his yard and planted it in mine.

Sadly this year ~ it didn't appear to have produced any grapes.

The other day ~ I went in my neighbors yard and noticed Tino's peach tree that borders my yard (but hidden behind a fence) was filled with beautiful peaches!

It was encased with a vine ~ all you could see were bits of peach hitting the ground.

As I got closer ~ the smell of grapes overwhelmed me.

Could it be???? YES!!!!

My grape vine had climbed over my fence and created a huge halo over his peach tree!

Grapes poured down ~ perfect beautiful peaches were below!

I felt Tino's warm smile and loving touch as I filled plastic grocery bags with peaches and grapes!

I could hardly contain myself and burst into his wife Kay's home ~ grabbing bowels from her cabinet and filling them with her beloved Tino's peaches and grapes!

I wish I had taken a picture before I started harvesting ~ my only proof are a few of the peaches I took for myself and a lone bit of grapes I left for the birds.

I did lot's of stitching this summer but have mostly just pile of unfinished projects to show for it.

Here are 2 things I did take photo's of before they went to their new owners.

This is a market bag made for my sister-in-law (and Miss Matty) with a large doily at the bottom ~

perfect for carrying fruit ,apples etc from the Farmers Market.

It's Simple As Can Be ~

You sew a fabric tube as wide as you want your bag to be ~ leaving the bottom open.

Add one fat handle to the top and sew the raw edges of a large doily (doily cut in half) to the bottom.

Then close the bottom of the doily ~ using a strong sturdy stitch.

This was the pouch I made for my Aunt Sarah's birthday ~ crazy quilted and beaded.

Other summer projects included our deck that we had to knock down without notice

because carpenter ants were about to carry it away!

Instead we knocked it down for them ~

and unfortunalty had to carry it away ourselves.

It was the biggest nightmare of my life.

Ummm ~ I mean to say ~

hard work never hurt anyone ;)

My dear brother in law ~ Richard ~who happens to be a carpenter (and not an ant) ~

SAVED THE DAY not only with his expert help but insisting on cutting down the trees that created our moisture problem in the first place.

These maple trees were HUGE ~

and he showed up to cut them down during the hurricane rains that came one Saturday in August!

He is so much fun ~ we lovingly call him our special little garden gnome!

Here are the finished results ~ I am in love with this sweet little deck which I now call our back porch!

I just need 2 of those rocking chairs from The Cracker Barrel for the spot shown below!

We have promised ourselves we'd get them 20 years ago but never had a covered porch ~

NOW we do!!!

My little Teddi Bear is still afraid to climb the new stairs!

The Zinnia's bloomed late but were beautiful this year!

A trip to the The NEW Yankees Stadiumwas an exciting treat just last week-end ~

after Jaci won an auction for them!

We took the Yankee Express train from Connecticut right to the stadium.

This was one of the many street musicians that kept us smiling as we took the short walk from the train to the stadium.

I did some organizing this summer ~ and came across my cross stitch basket that I bought in Dollywood well over 10 years ago.

It was like opening a time capsule!

The Teddy bear Franky (now 26) made for me in middle school ~ it was waiting for him to add the fiberfill ,

A picture Ashley (now almost 21) drew for me in elementary school ~

ticket stubs from Dollywood..........

and many unfinished cross stitch projects!

2009 was a busy, hard working summer but I was able to steal plenty of wonderful moments with family and friends!

Tomorrow we will welcome fall officially.

Still I will visit my flying friends at the beach one or two more times ~ even if I freeze!

As a Good-Bye to Summer Treat ~ how about my recipe for Chocalote Chip Zuchini Bread.

I use my circa 1970's Tupperware grater for this recipe.

Choclate Zucchini Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 eggs
2 cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups grated zucchini
1 bag of chocolate chips

Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease 2 ~ 9 by 5-inch loaf pans
Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, spices and baking soda.
Beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Add sugar and blend well.
Stir in oil, vanilla, zucchini, chocolate chips.,
Stir in sifted ingredients.
Bake about 50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Farewell Sweet Summertime ~

My Garden Heart's YOU!!!

Julie and Julia , Lemon Merinque Pie and The Garden

I've decided to treat myself to the movie Julie and Julia tonight but have a few minutes before I have to leave and thought we could chat.

In no time ~ you can make one of my favorite pies ~

Lemon Meringue Pie

I make it easy on myself by using the Durkee Lemon Pie Filling Mix like my Grama does .

Follow the directions for pie on the box.

This time I used Oranoque Orchards Pie Crust in the frozen section.

Making your own crust is perfectly wonderful to do ~ if time allows.

Once you've filled the baked pie shells with the filling ~ it's time to make the meringue.
I always double the meringue recipe on the pie filling box.

Put big fluffy piles of the meringue over the pie filling and fluff with a fork.

Bake according to directions on box.
I over cooked it slightly here but it didn't effect the taste at all!

Speaking of delightful eating ~

.....my lunch today was picked fresh from my garden.
I splashed with olive oil, a dash of rice vinegar, pepper and slices of fresh mozzarella.

And speaking of the garden ~
Here are some of the "firsts" ~

The green and red colors on this tomato is just beautiful!

These butterfly's were playing together on my lawn ~ bouncing into each other and flying happily around!

I'm back ~ The movie was wonderful!
It was especially fun as a blogger ~ to see what can happen by simply living out your passion.

I am posting this a couple weeks late.
After coming home from watching a Master chef baking everything from the finest ingredients
AND from scratch ~ put me to shame about using so much boxed and frozen items in my pie!

Then I remembered how many times my family and friends have enjoyed eating my pie.
My pie is worthy of a post after all!

Wonderful Day Kyacking With Franky in Rhode Island

I was so excited when my son invited me for a day of kayaking in Rhode Island ~ a less than 2 hour drive from our corner of Connecticut.
We left at 5:30 am do we have to and I was happy to do it!
The forecast was grey and rainy but the rain held out and we even had bit's of sun shining through.
My son and I feel comfortable just being quiet together at times.
We were mind full of all the amazing birds ~ singing and carrying on.
We found the coolest coral ~ I don't recall ever seeing it before!
The location was amazing ~ a bay on one side where we spent time in the boats ~ and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.
After we put the kayaks back on his truck ~ we spent some time on the beach.
We were so hungry for seafood at this point ~ we left about 2pm and went to The Chowder Pot in Branford , Ct.
What a great meal and prices! PLUS ~ they serve baked potatoes at lunch time which racked up some big points for me!

Rhode Island Beach Link

The Chowder Pot

Treasures From Pat

"Love is the true means by which the world is enjoyed;
our love to others, and others love to us."
T.Traherne

How did I ever get to be such a lucky girl?
I was supposed to pick a birthday gift from Pat's shop back in March but wanted
to "save" the fun for a special time .
The other day was that special time and in the blink of an eye ~
this Treasure arrived at my door!

AND this absolutely amazing cell or card case and charming "Shop Till You Drop" pin

AND all of these other treats including her hand dyed silk ribbon which is the best you will find.

PLEASE DO double click on the photo's so you can see up close the details!!!

The best part is the love that pours out of her work. It makes me cry every time ~ which my husband thinks is very funny ~ in a good way.

Teddi starts to lick me like crazy ~ not knowing they are tears of joy.

One of my favorite quotes reminds me very much of my special friend ~

whom must be rich in all the very best ways ~ if this quote bears any truth ............

Life begets life.

Energy creates energy.

It is by spending ones self that one becomes rich. s.bernhardt

Thanks you Pat Winter for making my life richer by your friendship.

Road Trip to Virginia ~ Tappahannock, Fredricksburg, Rappahannock River

A few weeks ago ~ I was thrilled to take a road trip ~ just me, myself and I ~to see family in Tappahannock, Va.
I wish I could have traveled by sea but instead ~

it was via the New Jersey Turnpike.
Of course I am used to the usual 1 hour back up ~ always around Exit 8 for some reason.

I only wish I had not been so absentminded about my gas.

I was on empty and miles and miles of traffic ahead in a dead stop.

I did what I always do ~ prayed and asked the Lord for some extra grace for not having filled my tank.

One hour later ~ I made it right to the pump.

HE never lets me down!

I arrived at Tappahannock, Va ~ 9 hours after leaving Connecticut.

I had never been here but could feel I belonged.

Many of my ancestors from both sides of my family were from this area ~ fishing the Rappahannock River and raising their family's up and down this stretch of Va.

I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Tappahannock.

This is a very small town and I didn't expect much but was pleasantly surprised!

It was spotlessly clean ~ many offerings for free including breakfast, pool, gym and computers in the lobby area.

The little Historic District was lovely.

This is the Rappanhannock River ~

I stopped my car under the bridge and tried to picture my ancestors going up and down this river.

It felt so wonderful to be here ~ kinda like having a dream of a place you loved when you were a child.

I felt like I was revisiting instead of visiting for the first time.
I had a wonderful visit with my family all day Saturday.

They are wonderful folks ~ down to earth, country through and through.

I left at dusk for the hour ride North to Fredricksburg, Va.

I arrived at dark so it took me a while to find my Inn ~ The Kenmore.

Many of the streets are one way so it was hard to find at night.

I was starving when I arrived but the only place that was still open to dine was the bar.

Oh darn ~ I felt funny going to a bar alone but hunger ruled. I remember thinking at 50 ~ I can do anything!

I ordered a salad ~ leaving my glasses in my room so the bartender had to read me the menu to me ~ how embarrassing.

After I ordered ~I noticed my glasses were hanging out of my shirt the whole time!

It was a very nice place and what interesting people !

I will start at one end of the bar and work my way around ~

- there was a woman who's Dad had been a pilot for many of our presidents.(Nixon was his favorite)

- A well known 80 something year old piano player and his attractive wife, (on his way out of the bar ~ he played a short but beautiful tune on the bar piano)

- a young couple who were celebrating there 1st wedding anniversary ~ both lawyers,

- a young cute curly haired kid who seemed to have consumed one to many energy drinks,

- a man who's brother in law almost beat the the Iron Chef on the Food Network.

We all had SO much fun and such lively conversation ~ I didn't get back to my room till midnight!

It was the most unexpected end to the most wonderful day ~ back where my life had began generations before me ~ I was home.

Now if only this could have been my house!

This was the chandler above my bed ~ (pic's of the room didn't turn out)

The dining room where breakfast was served ~

The front porch of my dreams ~ (I thought of my pal Pat Winter when I was sitting here)

After breakfast ~ I checked out early ~ left my car at the Inn as parking is difficult ~ and walked to the downtown area.

The homes along the way were beautiful......

with beautiful gardens to match.

I walked around for 2 hours in the 100 degree heat ~ waiting for the museums and shops to open

(it was Sunday)

...and ended up with a case of heat stroke!

I made it to one museum when I had to find an air conditioned restaurant and sit there for over an hour until I was up to driving.

I still had to drive to Lancaster, Pa that day so headed out on the road ~ ton's of traffic as I was in the Washington DC area ~ and prayed once again for God's grace and help to get me to my destination.

Here are a few other pic's I took in Fredricksburg before I got sick ......

gorgeous magnolia's.....

lovely alley ways ~ so common in these southern towns.

Even the trees are steeped in history.

By the time I reach Baltimore, Maryland ~ I started to feel better.

Just as I was within 20 minutes of my hotel in Pa ~ a terrible storm hit the area.

The black sky turned everything dark as night. Since I drive a convertible ~ I was concerned about falling trees.

I passed several but those wonderful angels kept me safe.

By 7:00 pm ~ I was rocking in the wooden rocking chairs on my hotel porch ~ as the sun pecked back out just in time for the sunset.

I reflected on the last few days, it truly did feel like such a wonderful adventure.

Tomorrow morning ~ I would be waking up in my beloved Amish Country.

Breakfast at the same place we always brought the kids. Their childhood seems as though it lives on here ~

I see their faces in the children whose glance I catch.

I feel their tug on my leg and hear there excitement as a Amish Buggy rides by.

Maybe it is these memories that draw me back to this place time and again ~ as much as it is my love for the people here.

for more info on the places I visited ~

http://www.baygateways.net/general.cfm?id=138

Rappahannock River

http://www.essex-virginia.org/ta_walk.htm

Tappahannock, Va

http://www.visitfred.com/

Fredricksburg, Va

http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/lanco/site/default.asp

Lancaster County, Pa

Waking up in Lancaster County, Pa is heaven to me.

This morning ~ I had to be headed home to Connecticut by 11am to give me time to stop at the Amish farms along the way to buy produce to bring home.
I decide to take a ride on one of the Amish Buggies before leaving.
The driver was raised Amish with his 7 brothers and sisters but left the sect when he became a man.
He has a great love for the people and land ~ paired with a very honest view of some of the downfalls.
It was such interesting conversation!

Here we are riding down the country lanes.

This is a tobacco field.The Amish are allowed to smoke pipes but not cigarettes because the "english people"do.

English is their term for anyone who is not Amish.

If you are not Amish ~ to them you are "english."

Much of the dairy produced in Lancaster County is sold to Hersey Candy Corp in Hershey, Pa.

Right now ~ the farmers are loosing money selling to them but don't mind.

They realize for many years they made a great deal of money.

They are such fair minded people.

This farm has been in the same family since the land was sold to them by William Penn in I believe the 1700's ~ according to our buggy driver.

This is one of the shops in Bird In Hand ~ just down the road from Intercourse.

My favorite pottery shop in Intercourse located in the Kitchen Kettle shopping area.

I always try to buy a tiny vase or pansy pot when I am here.

This is the front of the Best Western in Intercourse, Pa.

When my children were little ~ we always got a suite here with a kitchen but only used it to make popcorn at night!

They used to play right there in that buggy......oh the sweet memories.

Unlike most motel-hotels ~ the restaurant here is visited mostly by local Mennonite and Amish instead of tourists.

It is my favorite place to eat in this entire area.

Just fabulous local home cookin'!!!

wanna know a secret dream of mine?

To one day~ live in Lancaster County on property with a main house and 2 or 3 cottages I can rent to vacationers.

The idea of fixing a special room for guest ~ adding loving touches ~ and letting those far from home feel loved just makes my blood overflow with joy!!!

(I found out a few years ago I had Mennonite ancestors that lived in that area.I really believe it is in my blood.)

Beautiful Quilts at The Peoples Place Museum in Intercourse, Pa.

Whenever I am on my way home to Connecticut from anywhere south of the Mason -Dixon Line ~ you know I just gotta stay the night in my beloved Intercourse, Pa.
Sweet, beautiful Amish Country ~ there is nothing I don't LOVE about it!

I always visit The Peoples Place Quilt Museum and Fabric Shop ~

http://www.ppquiltmuseum.com/

which happens to be directly across the street form the Inn I always stay in.
Please enjoy these wonderful quilts that are part of the current collection ~

When you least expect it,

a common thread

~ golden, at that ~

begins to weave together

the fabric of friendship.

mary kay shanley

FYI ~ I used this cool setting I just discovered on my Canon Camera called STITCH to get the nice angle shots

Moo Cards

My Moo Cards arrived ~
and I LOVE THEM!!!
Don't know what a Moo card is you say?


It is a cool mini card that measures just 2 3/4" by 1" and is printed in the UK.
You get 100 in a set for $20.00 plus about $5.00 shipping. (try this code for 15% off ~ B9UA6R)
I purchased a cool case that goes on my keyring for $5.00 so they are handy to give out.
You download your own pic's ~ up to 100 ~ and fit them in the card the way you want.
(it's very easy and FUN!)
You decide what info you want on the back ~ here's what mine say ~

"For God so LOVED the world..." John 3:16
Terri's ThreadArt
crazy quilt artist and other thread art
tthreadart@aol.com
lavenderbetweenthecracks.blogspot.com

You can use them for any kind of marketing, business card, special event ~
hey ~ I feel like a MOO card salesman!
Check out the site for yourself ~
http://us.moo.com/en/

Make Your Own " Metal Look House " Number Plaque

I have wanted one of these for SO long but....it was just too pricey for my budget right now.
So how about making one for less than $10.00!

I took an oval wood plaque from Walmart ~ on clearance for .50 cents.

Paint it black with my regular craft paints ~ 3 coats.

Don't forget to add a ring of accent color ~ I used silver.

I didn't have a paint brush so used a Q tip - giving it a bit of a worn look that I like.

If you want nice crisp lines ~ go with the brush!

The letters were purchased at Lowe's for under $10.00.

Screw those in and you are done!

(Try not to strip the screws ~ like I did on the one at the top of the seven)

TADA ~ I like it !

Blog Giveaway

Wouldn't you love a chance to win this beautiful Bird's Nest Charm?
Hurry and join me by going right to Pat Winter's Blog http://gatherings100.blogspot.com/
and enter your name in the hat!

White Flower Farm, Lichfield, Ct.

Let's take a stroll throught the garden.

If you listen closely ~
you'll hear the many songs of the abundant bird population here at White Flower Farm ~

Let's visit my garden while we're at it ~

I've been gathering seed's from the Lupines to share with you.

This is a well used shed at the bottom of my yard ~

surrounded by an old picket fence that was ready to go to the dump.

Maybe next year I'll paint it ~ but for now I am embracing the chipped paint.

Looking up to the house from the shed area at the bottom of the yard.

"May I live in a small house with a big garden ,

A few friends and many books may I pocess -

Both wise, both true and both delightful." A. Cowley

Won't You Rate My Space???

On a whim ~ I uploaded these and other photo's last week on HGTV's Rate My Space.
I was absolutely beside myself the next night when my kitchen was the # 1 viewed Space.
In the grand scheme of things ~ it's not such a big deal but for me ~ it was huge!
Me and decorating have been pals since I can remember............

The very first play activity I remember doing ~ next to digging in the garden and swinging on my swing ~
was rearranging and decorating my basement at age 4 or 5.
I once bite the boy next door on the ankle as he ran up the basement stairs because he didn't want to decorate with me anymore. ( we were both age 5 ~ sorry Gary Lear wherever you are!)
I swear this is true ~ when my Mom found out ~ she gave me a well deserved spanking and gently "placed" me on her bed.
As I fell onto her bed ~ I remember thinking how much I loved the white chenille bedspread!

When I was about 10 ~ a new boy moved in across the street. He LOVED decorating !!!
We spent an entire summer in my basement ~ making rooms out of all Grama's old curtains.
We nailed them to the beams on the ceiling and tucked them into wires.
We created entire "apartments" and then redid the whole thing ~ over and over.

Almost every Fri. night until I was a pre-teen and started going out with friends ~
I shut myself in my bedroom with the radio blasting ~
so Grama wouldn't hear me moving the furniture and see the scratches I occasionally made on the new hardwood floors.
I cleaned, organized and changed my room around a million different ways.
I would then put on my best jammies, climb into bed with a book and fold the top sheet perfectly down ~
I felt like a princess!
The whole room smelled like Pledge ~ which as the years passed ~
also hide the smell of the cigg I would sneak!


My Classic Kitchen With Vintage Touches

Here is the link to my "SPACE" ~

http://www.roomzaar.com:80/rate-my-space/Kitchens/A-Classic-Kitchen-With-Vintage-Touch/detail.esi?oid=6989925

Grama's Recipe For Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

I have always held on tight to this recipe ~ like one hangs on to a special childhood treasure or maybe an old love letter.
I never thought I would share it with anyone but perhaps my own daughters for their wedding shower.
I changed my mind when I read an exert from Molly Wizenbergs book ~
" A Homemade Life."
She spoke about releasing special recipes so that they can be enjoyed by many others ~ I knew she was right.
Grama seemed to pull this out of her arsenal of recipes when I was in my teens.
I couldn't believe she had held out that long ~ all those earlier years we were denied of this yummy treat!
This is the food version of a big hug ~ one of the ways I say "I Love You" to my family.
It is also on the menu when the cupboards get bare ~ I am never without cheese,
pasta and onions!

Grama's Creamy Mac and Cheese



1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
a shake of Kosher salt
lot's of pepper or to taste
1/2 stick of butter
about 2 1/2 to 3 cups milk
small onion ~ chopped in tiny pieces
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 8oz box elbows or other noodles ~ cooked

Melt butter in pan and saute onion until it becomes transparent.
Working quickly ~ add flour to a 1/4 cup of milk ~ mix well and add to onions.
As it thickens over medium heat ~ keep adding milk and 2 1/2 cups cheese until mixture is thick and creamy.
TIP ~ Whenever I make gravy, a white sauce or any sauce thickened with flour ~ I add the flour with a small amount of the liquid called for and mix to the consistansy of sour cream before adding to the heated mixture. Then you will never have lumps! This works for soup as well.

Add dry mustard, salt and pepper and Worcestershire sauce to mixture.
Add noodles and mix well. (sometimes I don't add all the noodles ~ for a creamier mixture)

Put in a buttered dish and cover with remaining 1/2 cup cheese, bread crumbs and a confetti of tomatoes if you like.

Bake uncovered at 350' until golden brown.

And by the way ~

A Passion for Sea Glass, A Homemade Life And Other Great Products To Share.....

My Dear Friends......I have been thinking of you!
I won't get to all I want to share ~ it's almost dinner time ~ but let me at least share a few books
and products that have made my life awfully nice lately.

A Passion For Sea Glass

The book " A Passion For Sea Glass" was given to me from Mom a few weeks ago.
Oh WOW ~ do I love this book. There are SO many great projects to try ~

......this is one of them. Sea glass wind chimes ~ mm mm ~ I wonder what they sound like?
This made me really want to organize my sea glass better.
I have some in glass jars in my windows but the rest is hidden away in plastic buckets.
The author speaks about sea glass history, wearable art, locations, projects and sea glass artists.
(by the way "sea" the large shells pictured with the book? I found those at Milford Beach here in Ct.)



"A Homemade Life" by Molly Wizenberg

I am reading this book as we speak.
'A Homemade Life" is written in a delightful way ~much like "The Sweet Life in Paris."
Each chapter is a story with a recipe at the end relating to the story.
You stroll with the author through her childhood memories, loosing her Dad, and finding the love of her life
and how food helped her on her journeys in a delightful way.
This is the kind of book you can step away from for a week or so and pick up where you left off ~ no problem.
I have turned down the corner of every page that holds a recipe I must try ~ almost every one!

Visit Molly's well loved blog at http://www.orangette.blogspot.com/

"The LightWedge Book Light"

I like to read before I go to bed ~ Frank likes the lights OUT!
I have tryed all those cheesy book lights ~ they last about a week if it's my lucky week.
I toyed with the idea of a Hannah Montana book light that was 90% off at Borders ~ he he
and then I saw this.
"The Light Wedge" at Borders. It was $10.00 at 75% off. It comes with a nifty case that I never use.
You hold it right over the page you are reading and can see perfectly!
It is a little awkward to hold at first but you get used to it.
I have had it for a month now ~ use it every night ~ and it's still burnin' bright!

"ChiroFlow Waterbase Pillow"

Franks chiropractor recommended this pillow for him to help his back pain at night.
You fill the base with water ~ it's really like a water bed for your head!
The top however ~ is fluffy like a regular pillow.
He has been using this for over 2 months now and no more back pain in the morning!
It was $44.00 from his Doctor but I bet if you shop on line ~ you may be able to find it cheaper.

Celsius Energy Drink

The self proclaimed Red Bull addict has officially changed energy drinks!
Hello CELSIUS! I LOVE this stuff!
You get double the drink, it taste a whole heck of a lot better ~
it is actually GOOD and doesnt have any nasty chemicals in it.
I buy it by the case from Amazon and NEVER exceed one per day.
This is my coffee replacement since coffee has lots of carbs and add's to my pre ~ menopausal waistline.
If I do have coffee ~ I will skip this for the day.

Organic Smooth Move Tea

Okay now we are all buddies so I am going to share this last one with you.
We don't use any over the counter medicine in our home.
If it can't be cured with something natural ~ I live with it.
My daughter happen to be drinking a cup of this tea the other day and I tryed it.
It was so YUMMY! It had a sweetness to it that made it feel like maybe I was eating a
big chocolate brownie if I closed my eyes.
(okay ~ I'm exaggerating but you know what I mean)
So the other day ~ it was rainy and cold for July. I thought hhmmm~ I think
I'll make a pot of that yummy tea while I'm working on the computer.
I made it extra strong ~ 2 teabags in a tiny tea pot.
I let it steep and slowly enjoyed my treat. I had a fleeting thought later in the day about the purpose of that particular tea but ~ I was fine so forgot about it.
That was until my 2AM wake up call ~ when my stomach let out a gurgle so load it woke the neighbors ~
let's just say mission accomplished.
When it seemed safe to returned to bed 20 minutes later ~ still sweaty and now weak ,
I took a sip of water and immediately high tailed it (he he) back to the throne for another round.
Moral of the story ~ this stuff works! Treat it with respect ~ 1 teabag only when needed.
As yummy as it is ~ it is medicinal ~ not a treat ;)

New Toys At Micky McD's

And since I was all cleaned out ~
I will admit that YES ~ I DID buy AND eat a Cheeseburger Happy Meal just so I could have the Teeny Beany Baby Toy!

What I've Been Working On

This is a tiny 5' by 5 1/2" pillow is for my friend Nancy ~ a thank you for a wonderful lunch we shared together.

I finished this pouch and sent it to my Aunt Pat in memory of my cousin Kris who passed away 1 year ago.

Kris always wore the smile you see on her beautiful face.

This was an order from my pal Jayne for her ADORABLE Yorkie Zoe.

I also wanted to THANK Jayne for the special award and sweet comments she expressed on her blog which touched me so.

http://www.bunnychicboutique.blogspot.com/

This is Zoe wearing a collar I sent her last year ~ she is so tiny and petite compared to my Teddi.

Teddi told me Angell needed one too!

Mommie ~ when do I get mine??

My Michael Jackson Memories

My Micheal Jackson memories ~

I had just moved to Conn from Maryland. It was the early 1970's and I was 11 or 12.
Where I had grown up ~ everything was segregated. Whites and blacks lived in different areas ~ shopped in different stores. I always hated prejudice but it was intertwined in the very fabric of life there at the time.
When we moved to Ct ~ I went to an inner city Parochial school.
For the first time in my life ~ I had African Americans not only in my school but in my class.
I remember one by one ~ the silly things I had been told to believe fell away.
However ~ I still felt shy around my black classmates.
Then ~ the last day of school before Christmas break came.
It was a half day so the teacher let us have a party and play records.
We started playing Jackson 5 albums and my black classmates and I each pretended we were one of the Jackson 5 ........ singing our hearts out...... "ABC it's easy as 123"
I remember looking in there eyes, laughing hysterical as my heart lite up knowing we were all the same.
Micheal Jackson and The Jackson 5 were the bridge that I walked over to find my way to truth about prejudice.

Happy 4th of July!!!

A few images I was able to capture the last 2 days ~


Rt 63 in Naugatuck, Ct.

Milford, Ct

On the Port Jefferson Ferry headed to Ct.

Port Jefferson, New York

Port Jefferson Ferry while crossing the sound.

Wall Street, New York City.

God Bless America!!!

How to fold an American Flag

http://www.marthastewart.com/article/flag-folding-good-thing?xsc=eml_org_2009_07_04

"The Sweet Life In Paris"

It all started with a new book I am reading ~ "The Sweet Life In Paris" ~


..... and a promise by the weather man for a good 5 hours of sunshine in the midst
of the monsoon weather we are having in Ct.
I left the laundry, yard work and dog sitting for an afternoon on Fairfield Beach.
I am SO enjoying this book by pastry chef and cookbook author David Lebovitz about his adventures living in Paris. He is honest about the quirks of life there and has amazing recipes at the end of each entry.
I now know the proper way to cut cheese ~ like a cake, never in tiny squares and chunks.
You don't want to go to Paris for coffee ~ but for chocolate ~ ohhh lala!

I was reading page 90 ~Hot Chocolate To Die For ~ where he describes a visit to a cafe Patisserie Viennoise.
Not being fond of hot chocolate but unable to shake a shivering chill ~ he ordered a petit chocalat chaud.
He goes on to describe the almost out of body experience that followed ~ the cloud of steam that
rose to the surface , the chocolate whipped up fresh, the billowy whipped creme teetering dangerously on the edge of the cup.
OKAY ~ it was chilly at the beach.I was wrapped in a towel and unable to even venture to the waters edge because of the cool ocean breeze!
Who cares that the calender says June 17 ~ I needed some French Hot Cocoa ~ NOW!!!!

Then I remembered ~ oh YIPPEE ~ just down the road ~ A French Bakery! http://www.isabelleetvincent.com/



The lovely Isabelle et Vincent.

I honestly felt like I had just stepped inside of my book. All of David's lovely descriptions of french pastry's layed before my very eyes!

I asked the young man behind the counter if Hot Chocolate was available.

He didn't bat an eye ~ but told me the chef would be right there to make it for me.

As I waited I snapped these photos ~

The tall gentleman in this photo is Chef Vincent ~ owner and my hot chocolate maker.

Meanwhile I was in heaven or should I say Paris ~ watching all these delicacies being made.

Chef Vincent spoke French but I understood when he asked if I wanted sugar in my chocolate.

My excitement was not easily hidden and he chuckled as he whipped the chocolate into submission!

So here I was ~ sitting in my car with the top down ~ in the parking lot of a french bakery in June ~ drinking this delightful hot chocolate drink with this AMAZING eclair ~ not overly sweet like the American bakery's

but sweetened just enough to take the bitter from the chocolate.

For this moment ~ I was in Paris.

What an amazing afternoon!

I encourage you to visit David's web site where you will find a huge collection of recipes

as well as incite on all things Paris and cooking. It is DELIGHTFUL!

http://www.davidlebovitz.com/

This is from his blog ~

Wittamer's Belgian Hot Chocolate

Four to six servings

1 quart (1l) half-and-half or whole milk

8 ounces (230g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

4 ounces (115g) milk chocolate

finely chopped tiny pinch of salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1. Warm about one-third of the half-and-half or milk, with the chopped chocolates and salt, stirring until the chocolate is melted.
2. Whisk in the remaining half-and-half or milk, heating until the mixture is warmed through. Add the cinnamon.
3. Use a hand-held blender, or a whisk, and mix the hot chocolate until it's completely smooth. Serve very warm.

Serve with whipped creme and chocolate curls ~

David suggest a hint of cognac or chartreuse for more adult taste

Puzzle Swap Has Arrived, Flowers, Flowers Everywhere!

The beautiful puzzle pieces have arrived from the "Pieces of Friendship Swap"
that Pat Winter sweetly ignited! http://wwwpiecesoffriendship.blogspot.com/

The creators of are from left to right ~

1.Lynn Sletta from MN (Lynn I can't find a link to your blog ~ HELP!)
2.Pat Winter from Indiana, USA http://gatherings100.blogspot.com/
3. Liz from Kansas http://newsfromthebasement.blogspot.com/
4. Elizabeth Woodford http://elizabethcreates.blogspot.com/

Thank you so much for your beautiful art Ladies! I love and appreciate each and every stitch!


Even though we are into our 3rd week of rain here in New England ~ with a few sunny exceptions ~
my garden is managing to keep producing it's beautiful show.

Lupine .....

and a Foxglove jungle are making me smile through the rain drops!

These are not such great shots of my tiny veggie garden but wanted to show you something ~

the Willow Edging and Red Water Catchers under the tomatoes plants are in Gardeners Catalog

~ http://www.gardeners.com/ and somewhat pricey.

I got them at our local Job Lot last year for a few dollars each!

The water catchers even have the Gardeners name on them!

Keep your eyes open ~ it's surprising what you can find at those kind of stores.

These Candy Striped Roses smell like Christmas Ribbon Candy!

"The plants and flowers of the commonest kind can form a pleasing diary,

because nothing which calls back to us

the remembrance of a happy moment can be insignificant."

GOETHE

My Magical Visit From Mom

Mom came to visit ~ and food became a symphony.
When I am with my Mom ~ I have the privilege of entering a world I often yearn for
but is mostly silent in my everyday life.
I have to share with you the wonderful places we discovered on her recent visit.
Saturday ~ Mom, Jaci (my daughter) and me spent the day in West Hartford.
What a wonderful place to spend a day!
There is the older area and the new Blue back Square. http://www.bluebacksquare.com/retailopps.asp
It is FULL of wonderful places to eat
and one of a kind shops as well as a huge Barnes and Noble,Crate and Barrell ,Whole Foods etc.

Here is Mom and Jaci as we were waiting for our lunch at GRANTS ~

http://www.billygrant.com/home.htm ~

home of the best bakery in West Hartford.

It even got rave reviews form Oprah!

We brought home a heavenly Lemon Cake ~ OH MY GOSH ~ was it good!

My lunch was as good as it looks!

This is the ceiling in the bar area.

And the beautiful sculptures on the green.

Monday ~ We went to the world renowned Mayflower Inn. http://www.mayflowerinn.com/

We go there every year when Mom is here.

It is well beyond most folks price range to stay at the Inn but lunch is a doable treat!

This is Mom's dessert ~ mouthwatering Berry Bread Pudding......

and my Pear Carpaccio.

The beautiful stairs that go to the guest rooms.....

and the library of my dreams.

The Shakespeare Garden that never fails to take your breath away.

My sweet Mom is in her true element here ~ surrounded by Shakespeare and English style gardens.

She is a writer and this kind of setting is truly her inspiration.

This is the back of the Mayflower Inn ~ looking from the garden.

I forgot my camera on Tuesday but MUST mention the most amazing restaurant where we had lunch ~

" The Watchfactory Restaurant" in Cheshire, Ct.

http://www.watchfactoryrestaurant.com/

The chef and owner ~ Markus Patsch ~ was the chef to the late, great Victor Borge.

He serves Austrian Country Cuisine in a sweet , soothing setting.

He created the beautiful pine wood decor himself , I was excited to see he had the same french country curtains I have in my sitting room!

Outside on his garden patio ~ you feel you are in Germany.

Thursday we spent the day in Westport and had lunch at Paul Newman's restaurant ~

"The Dressing Room" http://www.dressingroomhomegrown.com/

It was simply out of this world.

They use small plate portions and encourage ordering "for the table."

Everything is so fresh ~ local when possible and also many items such as their chicken

are from the Amish in Pa.

It is located on the grounds of the Playhouse Theater.

http://www.westportplayhouse.org/

Mom was hungry for a good ole fashion cupcake and luckily ~

the famous CRUMBS http://www.crumbs.com/ just opened a shop in Westport!

We got 6 heavenly cupcakes ~my fave was the Boston Creme and the one that looked just like

an over sized Hostess Cupcake (the chocolate kind with the white strip on the top.)

By the time I thought to take a photo of our luscious treats ~ well there were just CRUMBS left ;)

By the way ~ they do deliver to 48 of the United States of America.

When Mom leaves ~ it's like a devastating blow in the gut.

Here is the guest room ~ after she left ~ looking and feeling very empty .......

The flowers I put at her bedside have began to shrivel and dry out.....

the pile of empty bags ~ each stands for an exciting or heartfelt purchase ......

a moment of laughter and the joy of a great buy.

We had a pajama party with Ashley one night and Mom ordered us all Carole Hochman jammies

from QVC but their arrival made me cry thinking of our visit.

She left me with a pot of herbs on my porch......

pedicured piggy toes .....

and since flip flops are my shoe of choice from April thru October ~

she made sure I had the best ones she could find ~ from Coach .

We surely did follow the advice of Shakespeare in "Venus & Adonis" .....

"Make use of the time ~ Let not advantage slip "

I enjoyed every morsel of time with you Mom, my taste buds are still dancing from

our symphony of food.....

thank you for making me feel like such a princess.

I love you!

Please enjoy this recipe from The Mayflower Inn ~

The Mayflower Inn & Spa Spring Pea Soup

Serving Size: 5 Portions

2 lbs Fresh English Peas
1 ea Yellow onion (chopped)
3 stalks Celery (chopped)
1 clove Garlic (chopped)
½ bulb Fennel (chopped)
2T Olive oil
2 T Mint
1 cup Cream
2 quarts Water
To Taste: Salt and Pepper
1. Shuck the peas and reserve the shells
2. In a large pot, add Olive oil, the chopped fennel, garlic, onion, celery and pea shells and sweat down
for 15 minutes. Use low heat not to achieve any color, just trying to extract flavor.
3. Add the water and simmer for 20 minutes and then strain and reserve the liquid.
4. In a pot of boiling water blanch the English peas for about 2-3 minutes and strain out the peas, add
the mint and blend in a blender. Making a thick puree.
5. Add the blended peas to the stock and whisk.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste
7. Finish the soup by adding whipped cream (no sugar) and whisking it in, gives it a nice silky texture.
Fresh lavender and good olive oil makes for an elegant presentation for the soup

please note ~ I live in Connecticut , USA.

All eatery's mentioned in this post are located in Conn.

Finished Pillow and Pin Cushions

I wanted to share with you the finished pillow I mentioned in an earlier post.
I listened to the special recipient preach a sermon about her Italian mom
so was able to glean some info that would have meaning to her.
I hope she likes it!

These little pin cushions made from plastic bottle caps are old news ~ I know ~ but I just started making them a few weeks ago.

They are SO much fun. I have made a bunch and given them away without taking a picture so this is the only one I have to share.

This is one of those projects you can stick in a plastic bag and carry in your purse.

They are SO much FUN!

Here is the site I found the instructions ~

http://www.flickr.com/photos/verybigjen/sets/72057594099768007/

10 Homemade Laundry Soap Recipes

I also wanted to share this link with you to ~

http://tipnut.com/10-homemade-laundry-soap-detergent-recipes/

I really plan on trying some of these.

It seems like alot of trouble but the comments left on the site by folks

who are using these make me feel it is truly worth while!

Have a Peaceful nights sleep ~ Sweet Dreams!

Dog Collars

These adorable dog collars are for my hairdressers dog Chuchi.
They slip right over your baby's collar.

I will be offering them on my Etsy site ~ $16.00 postpaid in the USA.
A little extra for those outside of the US.
They are made with a high quality cotton fabric and your dog baby's name machine embroidery on.
They can be thrown in the washer and dryer and then lightly pressed.
Should you like to order one before I get them listed ~ feel free to email me and I will
get one right out to you!
tthreadart@aol.com

Happy Monday Morning!!!

It is a beautiful Monday morning here in Conn, USA!
The sky is a deep blue with a slight chill in the air.
Before I head out into the garden ~ I wanted to wish you a HAPPY MONDAY!

This week-end ~ Frank and I went on an awesome bike ride on the Farmington Rail Trail.
We just started bike riding again last week-end.
When is the last time you got on your bike? Oh just go ahead and try it again!
Go to this site to find the bike trail near you ~ http://www.biketrails.com/
I was visiting a blog from England ~ I wish I could find it again!
She had wonderful pictures of her bike rides through her narrow village lanes and
was the proud owner of one of those cool 1950's looking bikes complete with a basket!

This past Tuesday ~ I met up with a dear friend from LA in New York City for the evening.
We had dinner, took in the 2004 Tony Winner "Avenue Q", paid a visit to the famous Sardi's http://www.sardis.com/,
and sat in the middle of Times Square soaking in the lights before I took the 1:46am train back to Ct.
Our evening wasn't really like a tea party but.......


More like this! Hee hee ; )

Just kidding!
She is one of those friends that you can bear your soul to without feeling judged ~ the best kind!
I am proud of Lori! She has been a comedian in LA and NYC for many years.
She writes for Joan Rivers and has a long list of impressive achievements under her belt.
She played Dangerfield's while she was in the city last week.
We had some fun adventures in our youth ~ driving cross country in her brand new Mustang.
I love ya Lori!

This week I am breaking out all the cleaning supplies and getting ready for my Mom to fly in from South Carolina on Fri for a week!
We always have a great time! Can't wait to see you Mom!


" The only good teachers for you are those friends who love you,

who think you are interesting or very important,

or wonderfully funny."


B.Ueland


ps Thanks to all you awesome souls who offer free clip art on line.

I just ran in from the garden to check something on the computer and this pic was in my email.
It is my handsome boy Franky and his sweet girlfriend Ang ~ taking a break from a day of kayaking.
Aren't they cute???

Hey ~ since your here ~ how 'bout a recipe for a cool summer drink
(from "The Book of Friendship")

Coffee Ecstasy

3 egg whites
1/4 cup sugar
Freshly Brewed coffee
1 pint vanilla ice cream
cinnamon

Separate egg whites from yolks and discard yolks.
In a small bowel, beat egg whites, adding sugar slowly, until soft peaks form.
Pour coffee evenly into 4 glasses.
spoon the egg whites on top, and add ice cream.
Sprinkle with cinnamon.

HAPPY DAY!!!

To nearly every male in my family for many generations back ,
and to all the men and woman who have served Our Country ~
We Thank You.

"God Bless America

Land that I love

Stand beside Her ~

And Guide Her........."

Never think that we can do this without God.

Latest Crazy Quilted Project and What's Blooming In The Garden

This project is for someone I don't know that God put on my heart ~ my favorite kind of piece to do.
I felt inspired to gift her and will simply ask the Lord for His wisdom and inspiration as I sew.
I feel it is His gift and I am just the messenger.
I know many of you do this too but if you've never tryed it ~ DO!
You will be amazed at how the Creator of this universe will work through YOUR very own beautiful hands.

This week in my garden has been so exciting! Flowers are blooming everywhere!

I played no special tricks with my computer to make the photo of this iris so stricking ~ it just happen.

I don't know how the background turned out black because it was a sunny day.
Nature blows me away!

My husband started buying me these glass globes a few years ago.
We pick them up in our travels from glass blowers ~ there are many in this New England region.
This was purchased in Great Barrington, Mass. I have started putting them outside with strong wire for the summer.
They are so much more enjoyable than getting dusty inside!

Clematis in full bloom ~

How can I forget the name of this classic ~ but I have!

The tall grasses are growing by the foot!

These chairs are mostly for show ~ I can never sit still in my garden!

" I always felt that the great high privilege, relief, and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing."

Katherine Mansfield

Refreshing Summer Drink ~

Try mixing frozen lemonade and your freshly brewed tea in equal parts.

Serve over ice with a slice of fresh lemon ~ these are addictive!

Banana Creme Pie Or Now We Know Why Terri Can't Fit Into Her Summer Clothes!

We had a fall like day last week ~ you know those kind with the brisk wind that pushes all the curtains straight out !
I love those kind of days.
I spent the afternoon cooking for my family and was so grateful to be doing it!
Tender fresh corn ~ steamed for just a few minutes.

A big pot of Chili ~ on the hot side ~ with some cheddar cheese on the side.

Crispy corn muffins ~ cooked in my great-grama Nannie's muffin tin.

And what else to do with all these ripe bananas ~

but borrow a recipe from my son's cookbook ( the one I bought him in middle school and haven't had the heart to give him for his own home)

OH YUMMY Banana Creme Pie!!!

I always make double the whipped creme ~ you need extra to lick the beater!

OH ~ let me just jump right in!!!!

I get SUCH joy over making my family a good ole' fashion 1950's style supper like this!

YUP! I even wore an apron!

Sometimes ....All It Takes Is A Wish

Don't you love when you follow your intuitions head on and the results are so lovely and so much better than you could have ever planned!
Thursday I had just HAD it with the cluttered feeling in my sewing room. I started taking everything off of every surface and moving furniture all around.
I got it arranged in a pleasing way but as a result ~ had to get rid of a dresser that I had used for alot of my storage.
Fri morning ~ I had piles of stuff that I couldn't get rid of but had no where to put.
Suddenly I got this urge to go get 2 cent stamps ~ I know how silly that sounds but it true!
As I headed to the post office ~ this beautiful Victorian house I passed was having an estate sale.
I haven't shopped in FOREVER and with $11.00 in my pocket ~ I skidded to a stop and went in.
My knees started shaking as I tryed to pretend I wasn't impressed ~ he he he he!
Just look at all my treasures ~
Hankies, potholders, tiny tea sets ~ some marked GERMANY ~

This woman was a doll collector ~ I mean I could have gone CRAZY but after all was on a budget

This was my favorite ~ tiny teacups with parrot handles ~

Beautiful tatted doily's and hankies ~

These potholders are just a darn piece of heaven if you ask me ~

Vintage books ~

NOW for the real prize! As I looked at the books I noticed the book shelves were on sale for $20.00 each.

Well ~ hm mm ~ I have the check my sweet Mom sent me for Mothers Day ~ Excuse me Mame ~

would you take $35.00 for the pair?

YES YES YES she said and here they are ~

JUST what I needed for my sewing room!!!!

They are well over 50 years old. All I did was clean them good. I love the color and worn patina!!!

And when Frank went to pick them up ~

they had found one more in the basement and gave to us for free!

I haven't fused over the arrangement inside the shelf yet but it looks perfect in my dining room!

I had an empty corner that needed filling badly!!!

I feel SO blessed!!! It started with a wish and 24 hours later ~

done!

Now I just have to find some empty wall space for my thread and I'll be back in business!

By the way ~ I never did buy those stamps :)

A Fun Morning With Ashley

It all started when Ashley left her I-Phone at home and wanted me ~ all muddy from working outside ~
to bring it to her at work.
She bribed me with a morning of her help in the garden the next day before she went to work .
She even bought me a flat of Impatiens that night for us to plant!
I was so touched but since I know she hates gardening ~ I suggested doing some mosaic.

We found some empty pots.....

and broken glass and went at it!

I was in heaven ~ as the morning sun was just hitting the garden and the birds were exploding in song ~

to be with my sweet daughter doing a project ~ just like the old days!

We decided to keep the glass in big chunks because every time I smacked it with the hammer ~

Teddi barked endlessly and we didn't want to disturb our neighbors so early in the morning.

They still have to be grouted but aren't they cool!

I am CRAZY over Ashley's! I love the Baily's coffee cup and how chunky it looks.

Mine is rimmed with one of my favorite pink vases from the 1940's.

When Frank and I came home from Pa.~ it layed in pieces with a note from Ashley that she broke it but would glue it all back together if I'd like :)

Somehow ~ this was alot more fun!

I Have Been Held Captive By My Garden

Oh WOW! I have missed you guy's!
But.......I haven't been able to tear myself away from my garden.
I mean ~ who can resist wisteria dripping down it's vine........

making a cozy retreat inside my wooden swing.

Who has time to sit though????

There is loads of digging and pulling of weeds to do ~

if I could just stop staring at this purple Iris......

and pretty blue bells.

My garden paths hold promise at ever turn.

Just let me cool off a minute in the shade garden....

where the foxglove grows taller by the minute.....

and the tiny azalea plants are in full glory.

The Lilly of the Valley is sharing it's scent with all who will take the time to bend down and breath in.

( have you passed by any simple delights today ~ for fear of bending down?)

Another Iris ready to bust open.

Sleep has been so peaceful ~ with the cool spring breeze pouring through the window and pushing the scent of lilac through my nostrils.

I will probably keep these next to my pillow for some time as they hold their fragrance long after the beautiful lavender color has turned brown.

I have so much more to share but have to get a weeks worth of inside chores done now ~

while the rain is falling.

Oh NO! The sun is breaking through the clouds ~ who needs cleans clothes ~

I'm headed outside!

See you soon!

Terri Lee Doll's, First Crazy Quilt and A Vintage Apron

Don't you love this beautiful vintage apron. I purchased years and years ago.
It is one of the items I will be letting go on my Etsy site in the next few days.
I washed and hung it on the line yesterday and loved watching it blow in the wind.

I was walking past my tiny little guest room (8 x 10 to be exact!) with camera in hand and realized I kept many of my treasures and collections in there. I thought I'd share some of them from time to time with you.
Did you ever hear of a Terri Lee Doll?
They were beautiful dolls from the 1940's. I always wanted one cause ~ hey ~ my name is Terri Lee!
One Christmas about 10 years ago ~ my Mom bought me this one. Isn't she beautiful?
http://www.terrilee.com/
Next to her is my beautiful box from Pat Winter.

This is my first Crazy Quilt. It still has needles in it with thread ~ it is far from done.
I had NO idea what I was doing. I made BIG blocks so I would have a bigger quilt ~ my teacher giggled when I told her that ~ now I know why!
All my kids still lived home back then. I would sit in my chair half the day and from dinner to bed ~ stitching!
I gained 5 pounds that fall-winter!
My style has changed so much but one day soon I want to finish it.
That is why it is hanging ~ a nagging reminder ;)
It has pieces of my children's clothing, their pictures, pennies with my anniversary year and my birth year.
Silly as it looks to me now ~ it holds many special pieces of my life ~ including introducing me to an art that will continue to ease me through many of life's ups and downs.

Teddi & Jake

Oh my ~ I just had to share these with you!
Teddi our Yorkie and Jake our Brittney ~ my companions and little loves of my life.
(thank goodness my husband never reads my blog!)

Ted after getting groomed recently.

He get's so bored when I spend hours working outside ~ he goes up to the deck to watch me from there.

I caught him snoozing!

The start of the yawn ~

And off to dream land.

"Life, Laughter, and Love are best when shared ~

With a Dog."

Wanna Get Nosey???

If I wanted to learn about someone ~ the single best way to do it is to see what books are sitting on their nightstand.
Or in my case ~ next to every spot I sit in my home.
WHEN I actually sit ~ it is in the room the sun happens to be shining at that time.
I surround myself with books ~ I am always reading a dozen at a time and rarely finish to the end!
SO ~ come get nosey in my home .........

This is the proverbial nightstand.I have the current magazines, the newest Judith Montano book that I have purchased and the 2 that I read before bed the last 2 weeks. These were pulled from my library shelf.
They are "The Friendship of Nature ~ A New England Chronicle of Birds and Flowers" and
"Connecting to Creativity" by Bergmann and Colton.

Next to the chaise in my room ~ my leather journal that I record miracles the Lord is doing in my life,
a bible (I have them all over the house ~ different versions and read them all)," A Gift From The Sea " ,
"Companions for the Soul" ~ recorded writings dating back to the 1600's of the spiritual struggles and delights of many famous and not so famous folks of the day .

Under my bedroom window you will find books that I like to read in bed when I am tired of the nightstand variety.

These are in my tiny office area ~ all about money, debt and business.

This is a sampling from the bookshelf in my hallway.They run the gamut from historical, local history, poetry and books I'm not ready to put on my "real " library shelves yet.

The upstairs bathroom ~

and in the drawer where I store the tp ~ yikes ~ I'm runnin' low!

The downstairs bathroom ........

New books I want to read this summer ~

The coffee table in my sitting room. This is the bible I read most mornings and as you can see I am currently planning my garden areas.

The outside deck table ~ lunchtime reading from yesterday.

In the kitchen ~ I am finally reading the books about kitchen appliances that I got 2 years ago!

I still don't get how to use the convection oven or get why my produce is freezing all of the sudden!

Cookbook nook ~ these are just the ones I use most.

I keep lots of vintage ones on my library book shelves.

These are next to a chair in my dining room.

I know ~ I am an addict! The hardest part of tightening our belts financially is not buying books on BAMM

or Amazon.

I can live without new clothes, food, make-up but never flowers and books!
And let me add to that ~ keeping my roots touched up : )

Some words from my current read "Connecting to Creativity" ~

"You are unique, and

No one else can think what you think

Dream what you dream

Sing what you sing

Say what you say. "

So goa head ~ get off this darn computer you beautiful creature you ~

GO DREAM some DREAMS!!!!

Martha's Glazed Lemon Cookies

Mmmmm ~ I 'm eating one RIGHT NOW!
They are thick like an Italian cookie but light at the same time.
Super size picture for recipe or go to Martha's web site.

You will add fresh lemon to the batter ~

Tip ~ I always keep used lemon in my sink for the rest of the day.

Each time I use the warm water ~ it gives off a wonderful scent!

When you are ready to glaze these cookies ~ I dipped each warm cookie right into the glaze.

After it dried ~ I glazed a second time.

I like every surface covered with the fresh lemony glaze!

These flowers are sitting on my window sill and matched the lemon on the cookies perfectly!

They were a gift from Franky's girlfriend ~ Ang.

" Never deprive yourself of a cookie!"

T.Takacs

My Nails Are Filled With Dirt & I LOVE It!

HI Everyone! I have missed you all so much. I have been bogged down with business stuff but who cares about that ~
Let's talk about the gardening!

Tulips came up everywhere in my yard this year ~ super size this and get lost in it!

My yard is filled with retaining walls and little garden rooms.

This is standing at the top looking down at one of the more level areas.

My little pond is just to the left out of sight.

Everything in a garden is fascinating ~ including this mob of ants climbing up a rock wall.

This tulip looks like it is singing a joyous song of praise!

When the leaves on the trees blow in the wind ~ I believe they are giving the Lord a mighty hand clap!

I can't remember names of stuff anymore ~ but this is that typical yet beautiful stuff you see climbing down rock walls.

Variegated hosta unfurling.

I love the movement in this photo.

One of my garden friends. Teddi chases these and sadly has bitten them a time or two.

It makes me sad but it is after all ~ the circle of life.

This tree is right outside my kitchen window. See my friend in the tree ~ he is the funniest squirrel I have ever "known!"

He has been building a twig nest just to the right. He does it so willy nilly ~ ever time he brings more twigs and pushes them in ~ the other ones fall and he scurries to catch them.

He sleeps in this hole in the tree most of the day.

I suspect he is the one biting off my favorite pink tulips and dropping them in one of the bird baths!

Remember ~ the more pansy's you pick ~ the more will grow.

I wanted to share this tip with you that has worked great for me for years.

I grow many of my peony plants under a rose bush.

The sharp thorns seem to keep the Peony bush straight and under control.

When the peonybush dies off ~ the rose bush is there to take over.

This is also a great idea with say a Lilac tree.

Try planting Morning Glory or Clementius underneath it.

After the lilacs are gone ~ the vine takes over and the tree appears to have blooms all summer!

All you see is the leaves of the tree and the blooms of the vine.

It's AWESOME!

One of the rock gardens exploding in bloom.

This tall fern came off of a 100 years old fern at a local museum.

All the ornamental trees are in bloom in front of my home.

Take time to enjoy Spring in your own special way!

".......i think the king is but a man,

as I am;

the violet smells to him as it does to me."

Henry IV ~ Shakespere

Today in My Garden

" If I had a flower for every time you made me smile,

I'd be walking in an endless garden."


Today pansy's needed some planting ~ but the other flowers kept calling to me .......
with their heavenly scent ........

and their giddy cheerful personality's.

They have friends that just want to cling to their vibrant ways ~

Much like the way I feel about you!

I love you ~ each and every one of you. Thanks for coming by!

My Teddi Bear likes to bite the water coming out of the hose ~ this made for a muddy mess today! He went right from this photo to a bath.

And by the way if any of my children are reading this ~

You missed an egg!