tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52344648432691320442024-03-21T11:32:36.504-05:00Thought and Thimble* in London *Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-63309692628813272292011-01-10T15:37:00.007-06:002011-01-10T21:57:40.786-06:00Possum Trot goes to Show & TellPossum Trot is a rather shy lion. He is especially timid around dogs. He had his nose bit off once, but a new embroidered one was stitched on by his mistress* the moment the doggie slobber dried.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDg7g3a2524WLgLZJQ6n6EPuztSqdEUTq602yhJc3T5FIDUUYre2eHqYxiDLtlWOiaN1Sye7vVlC-TIqkhtew_fbPAeIHBh8_jDn-CVU8UZp1yw43nJTPzZ9iXZ9DtG6czdRtc9Hu8MCk/s1600/DSCF2812.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDg7g3a2524WLgLZJQ6n6EPuztSqdEUTq602yhJc3T5FIDUUYre2eHqYxiDLtlWOiaN1Sye7vVlC-TIqkhtew_fbPAeIHBh8_jDn-CVU8UZp1yw43nJTPzZ9iXZ9DtG6czdRtc9Hu8MCk/s400/DSCF2812.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560675248603211442" border="0" /></a>He adores long conversations with small children, with the help of a good-natured grown-up, of course. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihs3wOJIvwMAU1Ct32gy6pFS4SMYYkZrDfZSEwN-_401KT7DazF0vzwY6szEHg8q1mlTqqLchL7LNdrH-46K1-eWwMzmstzo5S_Qx9A5uBoen5D26oVVZn6P2a-BuBBVih96S74UKCmiQ/s1600/DSCF2809.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihs3wOJIvwMAU1Ct32gy6pFS4SMYYkZrDfZSEwN-_401KT7DazF0vzwY6szEHg8q1mlTqqLchL7LNdrH-46K1-eWwMzmstzo5S_Qx9A5uBoen5D26oVVZn6P2a-BuBBVih96S74UKCmiQ/s400/DSCF2809.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560675243398644322" border="0" /></a>He has a Very Important Outing tomorrow. He is going to Show & Tell with his boy at day school. Three-year-olds love puppets. He should be a big hit.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99EhjlxviXT9EtBoyfBofdnnOPGT49McCQlQV3pB_o-1KfXiekSQljtBdSszrviRsJCh-TCaySBnsQeQ7RutPAIJQhpSbJn1sELpZH3nyNLzW-luSLQFtA3aKsA3v19kTTMP5vW14jmc/s1600/DSCF2813.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99EhjlxviXT9EtBoyfBofdnnOPGT49McCQlQV3pB_o-1KfXiekSQljtBdSszrviRsJCh-TCaySBnsQeQ7RutPAIJQhpSbJn1sELpZH3nyNLzW-luSLQFtA3aKsA3v19kTTMP5vW14jmc/s400/DSCF2813.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560675255879101954" border="0" /></a>(Nap mat and pillow inspired by<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55311900/organic-nap-mat-for-modern-eco-kids-in?ref=sr_gallery_13&ga_search_query=organic+nap+mat&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title&filter[0]=handmade"> this Etsy seller</a>.)<br /><br />*When I was a little girl, my mother made Possum Trot a wonderfully real toy to me. He is only on loan to my own children.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-27368839610009578992010-12-10T21:50:00.000-06:002010-12-10T23:53:31.969-06:00Simple Goodness ~~ Saturday Muffins<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCImbeuq9bIP4nuhk63nyK715-w27NssDDHWnLW57y_mN1V_6M2Q69yr43WdhyphenhyphenKx2yYpjbG3wThC3Hc6S3HP1zuZVtfBb7emQ-vWrh9SBCQNfr4U3XkvkT9MnnWm7H2u46eRuO8TKES60/s1600/DSCF2668.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCImbeuq9bIP4nuhk63nyK715-w27NssDDHWnLW57y_mN1V_6M2Q69yr43WdhyphenhyphenKx2yYpjbG3wThC3Hc6S3HP1zuZVtfBb7emQ-vWrh9SBCQNfr4U3XkvkT9MnnWm7H2u46eRuO8TKES60/s400/DSCF2668.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542588052516689698" border="0" /></a><br /><br />During the week, very little cooking happens at breakfast time in this house. We 'fix' something. Cold cereal with milk and fruit. Granola and yogurt. Hot porridges with bananas or frozen berries in winter. But Saturdays are different. Saturdays mean homemade-this-very-morning muffins with butter and jam and coffee and juice. These muffins are hearty and substantial, and leave you feeling ready to tackle the fall yard clean-up. They are nourishing without tasting 'healthy', and truly muffin-y, but not at all like the overly sugared cake bombs found in most bakeries. Most importantly, these always feel doable, even when I've taken my time finding my way to the kitchen. It's become a little tradition we look forward to every week.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Saturday Muffins</span><br /><br />Makes 18 muffins. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.<br /><br />dry ingredients: whisk together<br />1 cup whole wheat flour<br />1 cup unbleached white flour<br />1 cup stone ground corn meal<br />1 1/2 T. baking powder<br />3/4 t. baking soda<br />3/4 t. salt<br /><br />wet ingredients: whisk in second bowl<br />3 large eggs<br />1 1/2 cups plain or vanilla yogurt, kefir, or buttermilk<br />1 cup brown sugar<br />1/3 cup vegetable oil<br />1 1/2 t. vanilla<br /><br />Stir together wet and dry ingredients just until moist. Do not over mix. This should not be a smooth batter. Fold in 2 cups fresh or frozen berries or cherries (coarsely chopped if larger than blueberries) gently. Divide into paper-lined muffin tins. Bake until toothpick comes out clean, about 18 minutes.<br /><br />These muffins hold up well and are also good for taking to a brunch or church coffee hour.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-49371560976763162112010-12-07T13:17:00.003-06:002010-12-07T13:26:52.734-06:00Gingerbread Home Converted to Railway Station<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOZuVtAg_v4BzaUD-OSSJ_hD23DYLBTa2nOQthy3oSNN5ldDG2PM0dqkWu3p2E7Kj-l7Y_RcFQ0DU3idAIFB3CD_aH1JdgNQERgO3AZthyphenhyphenHtBV6NNH1b-5MvRIv_CZ_wq1OxIU4Z39sY/s1600/DSCF2742.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOZuVtAg_v4BzaUD-OSSJ_hD23DYLBTa2nOQthy3oSNN5ldDG2PM0dqkWu3p2E7Kj-l7Y_RcFQ0DU3idAIFB3CD_aH1JdgNQERgO3AZthyphenhyphenHtBV6NNH1b-5MvRIv_CZ_wq1OxIU4Z39sY/s400/DSCF2742.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548022163933114962" border="0" /></a>After his nap time yesterday, the construction supervisor announced plans for the addition of a railway and tunnel, to be constructed of marshmallows. This plan was met with enthusiasm by the design team, and the project was completed on schedule. Your reporter has been assured that the large bear wandering about the area is the newly appointed, Friendly and Helpful Stationmaster.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-62501650378899954712010-12-06T14:25:00.004-06:002010-12-06T14:36:27.170-06:00Gingerbread Home Construction and Planning Commission Meeting MinutesThe Gingerbread Home Construction and Planning Commission met today at 12:30. The construction supervisor made sure the edges of the roofing were clear of adhesive debris.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsF1ZCd0-7UCsZhPUz0E9I8lm8FbCs2lN2yLWyC5UI6ygNtV4mF5Mr-fteF5exC6B1yFZ0_YLyVznFC0awXWbJwRtWfS2ex1sW1zx-xUgfLlnpsF1KyJlhvGWiJ37uNdi8yhDq085IQZs/s1600/DSCF2727.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsF1ZCd0-7UCsZhPUz0E9I8lm8FbCs2lN2yLWyC5UI6ygNtV4mF5Mr-fteF5exC6B1yFZ0_YLyVznFC0awXWbJwRtWfS2ex1sW1zx-xUgfLlnpsF1KyJlhvGWiJ37uNdi8yhDq085IQZs/s400/DSCF2727.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547668741557830514" border="0" /></a><br /><br />While the Design Committee negotiated the details of home ornamentation. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjqphnSBScFo13m3vD8Err8Zwsvjy9-kkC3kYOVX5unU2wthjqBcxzk8OAF_mv7LDHcTougrGGp-LqoqXnEStKZESUqU7QxifTJkuvfMljZzMokCozjEIW1Oj48jZael6EpliXF0qTMQ/s1600/DSCF2730.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjqphnSBScFo13m3vD8Err8Zwsvjy9-kkC3kYOVX5unU2wthjqBcxzk8OAF_mv7LDHcTougrGGp-LqoqXnEStKZESUqU7QxifTJkuvfMljZzMokCozjEIW1Oj48jZael6EpliXF0qTMQ/s400/DSCF2730.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547668748171231986" border="0" /></a><br />Final plans included a railway stop, and have been approved by the master builder. The projected completion time of the project is before dinner tonight. Travelers passing through the kitchen should expect delays due to excessive cuteness and should use extreme caution, as the walkways may be littered with mini-jawbreakers and gumdrops. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQQTYGhutsCsz_ttS0Pys5rdCcEcSWmWucGFcE_jX-xxnF7xY7uNXb3xbS6XkWhRKgP-yDWnDHVHrVHXyHVp7UIprczODm3DoRWbERDfLOgez-7xmHdjULbJIUKpjirGjrkmEkrHaRqQ/s1600/DSCF2735.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 399px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQQTYGhutsCsz_ttS0Pys5rdCcEcSWmWucGFcE_jX-xxnF7xY7uNXb3xbS6XkWhRKgP-yDWnDHVHrVHXyHVp7UIprczODm3DoRWbERDfLOgez-7xmHdjULbJIUKpjirGjrkmEkrHaRqQ/s400/DSCF2735.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547668753788648530" border="0" /></a>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-21119092374364206102010-11-23T12:03:00.004-06:002010-11-23T12:31:51.387-06:00Rosy Cozy Apron Dress<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQ9HcUYYGq9dObshpUQbD_HbgxOWInT58W9O1E1_Xf5He2DbbSJGqZlvG20rb1QRpf45K6wUhhIsHC-JYgiZE94J6ef8-ZJ6wzUNwMUDPZnNiNqmhOI22riq36XHEQAkTpBixNdaTeZs/s1600/DSCF2679.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQ9HcUYYGq9dObshpUQbD_HbgxOWInT58W9O1E1_Xf5He2DbbSJGqZlvG20rb1QRpf45K6wUhhIsHC-JYgiZE94J6ef8-ZJ6wzUNwMUDPZnNiNqmhOI22riq36XHEQAkTpBixNdaTeZs/s400/DSCF2679.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542807748762159778" border="0" /></a><br />A simple, rosy apron dress for my rosy-cheeked, rose bespeckled, Truffle-y girl. This is made up in a lush flannel from the Japanese pattern book, Basics for Girls. The tie pockets were added from a discontinued McCall's pattern my mother made up for the girls as an adorable Easter dress several years ago.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-13988626735514729462010-11-22T22:34:00.006-06:002010-12-06T14:02:51.544-06:00Simple Pleasures ~~ Making MusicI declared all of Thanksgiving week a holiday... one of the many perks of being a homeschool headmistress, and this is what happened --<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufLEXJ7kIsgrKSY2fuY0Xg7lV3Ei8YMY540p_O_khjAJ9r8HOqMMkfQNi-KTC3K47t6EVfVW9rn6grDMDwCs7zpW2a4k1ZoNXtGBkSyyZBP45Y_WXhK3gWnlhIjWRY9Wt5YhtJx_QZGE/s1600/DSCF2697.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufLEXJ7kIsgrKSY2fuY0Xg7lV3Ei8YMY540p_O_khjAJ9r8HOqMMkfQNi-KTC3K47t6EVfVW9rn6grDMDwCs7zpW2a4k1ZoNXtGBkSyyZBP45Y_WXhK3gWnlhIjWRY9Wt5YhtJx_QZGE/s400/DSCF2697.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542599627248042674" border="0" /></a><br />The girls spent the entire morning immersed in their music. The Truffle practiced her lesson songs, then she and the Wonderbug played together and worked on figuring out a new tune, <span style="font-style: italic;">Aiken Drum</span>, for a while. An hour and a half later, when their fingers began getting sore, they came in and began building their own 'practice' instruments from paper and cardboard, including a rather impressive violin complete with bow and chin rest. The Truffle announced that she can 'practice' on this one in the car, by thinking her songs and 'playing' them with her fingers. Given what our dear Music Cognition Professor friend told us the other night, she may just be right about that.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-62738054766013515332010-11-22T19:57:00.003-06:002010-11-22T21:50:42.075-06:00Simple Pleasures ~~ Fall Days<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoFHVG3SM69KxV-cDB2Y74kJFormPHwkHkMAxqfNI7IEtwXokLeqWOE_LogjdDoP0pxgGQ9dQj67qxm9r22YRbJ_bM_l5r4hHiL0oLwF1KqJcNu9PgcXopPbOTKMmZ2KZFEc9XiL4cszg/s1600/DSCF2681.JPG"><br /></a>Every other year, our three 65 year old pecan trees give us bushels of beautiful, brown nuts. We will be gathering them until April or May...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TsydO9wc-uSfb7gDr0FN33ea3PCSikMxVm7g6xGLF3H3U_0GtdUaP8wJvYMiJZBsGwfxe4KTimtF_MQMHpzsFBsA9fYOKJzx-iom06MAu5-B_3qGwPap7SjWm4NYwrzmyir_ekiy3hE/s1600/DSCF2677.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TsydO9wc-uSfb7gDr0FN33ea3PCSikMxVm7g6xGLF3H3U_0GtdUaP8wJvYMiJZBsGwfxe4KTimtF_MQMHpzsFBsA9fYOKJzx-iom06MAu5-B_3qGwPap7SjWm4NYwrzmyir_ekiy3hE/s400/DSCF2677.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542559159466428434" border="0" /></a><br />And our neighbor's ancient (as yet unidentified) tree sends pretty postcards by way of the wind.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoFHVG3SM69KxV-cDB2Y74kJFormPHwkHkMAxqfNI7IEtwXokLeqWOE_LogjdDoP0pxgGQ9dQj67qxm9r22YRbJ_bM_l5r4hHiL0oLwF1KqJcNu9PgcXopPbOTKMmZ2KZFEc9XiL4cszg/s1600/DSCF2681.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoFHVG3SM69KxV-cDB2Y74kJFormPHwkHkMAxqfNI7IEtwXokLeqWOE_LogjdDoP0pxgGQ9dQj67qxm9r22YRbJ_bM_l5r4hHiL0oLwF1KqJcNu9PgcXopPbOTKMmZ2KZFEc9XiL4cszg/s400/DSCF2681.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542559167053963986" border="0" /></a><br />Some days it is so easy to be thankful.<br /><br />Happy Thanksgiving to all!Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-75381085671866259812010-11-21T17:49:00.002-06:002010-11-21T20:45:12.220-06:00Simple Goodness ~~ Homemade Alfredo SauceThe Professor and I have been making this sauce for our family for about ten years. It began when our friend Ike cooked for us from Marcella Hazan's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Essentials-Classic-Italian-Cooking-Marcella/dp/039458404X"><span style="font-style: italic;">Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking</span></a>. The tomatoes and basil drizzled in olive oil, the green beans with butter and parmesan, and the orange sorbet put us over the edge, and we splurged on this cookbook when there was no money for splurges. We stay close to the proportions Marcella shares for this classic, but a small deviation from her method (credit to The Professor) yields a much thicker, creamier sauce. This is so simple to execute, and so good, you'll forget it's sold in jars and wish the restaurants knew what you know about pasta Alfredo.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Homemade Alfredo Sauce</span><br /><br />4 T. butter<br />1 1/2 cups heavy cream, divided<br />1 1/3 cups shredded parmesan, divided<br />1/4 t. ground nutmeg (essential! do not substitute.)<br />salt and pepper to taste<br /><br />After draining your cooked pasta (penne is a favorite with our small children, linguine is the standard), place the pot back over low heat. Melt the butter, add 1 cup of the cream, 1 cup of the parmesan, and the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the parmesan melts and sauce thickens, maybe 2-3 minutes. Toss in pasta, coating it thoroughly. Then add the meat/veggies and the remaining cream and parmesan. Toss gently. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately. <br /><br />Regarding additions:<br />Grilled chicken is always good. As are fine, steamed green beans. Cooked and sliced Italian sausage works well, too. I often use a frozen Tuscan mix when I'm in a rush. I simply place the still frozen mix in a large, hot skillet (8 of 10) with olive oil, sprinkle with a little garlic salt, turn the heat down to medium and let them steam/brown 'til tender while the pasta cooks. <br /><br />This recipe makes enough sauce for one pound of pasta and another pound or so of additions. <br />That feeds our family of five with generous moreovers for the next day.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-65824955312490429742010-11-07T20:40:00.004-06:002010-11-21T20:45:52.581-06:00Prairie Girl Fashion<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFqZEs9NKgA0YB-MvzgE76LvGkkLSKHNlNOBz0Pz0jTDlByiJQ08QyHV-_4uQQ80kAAPIs6V1Mp7uw3oO2TRkFqllAJRew29xj4F2Z-OTzAZwg5YjW4a-vn9QggUcX3gzc1WjOv07sGU/s1600/DSCF2599.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFqZEs9NKgA0YB-MvzgE76LvGkkLSKHNlNOBz0Pz0jTDlByiJQ08QyHV-_4uQQ80kAAPIs6V1Mp7uw3oO2TRkFqllAJRew29xj4F2Z-OTzAZwg5YjW4a-vn9QggUcX3gzc1WjOv07sGU/s400/DSCF2599.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537003643306236178" border="0" /></a>On our way to model in a historic fashion show earlier this fall, I snapped a picture of the girls in their prairie dresses, circa 1870. These are made from Sense & Sensibility patterns in period correct fabrics. The Truffle had to remove her precious glasses for the trek down the runway, so the girls held hands as they went, and even coordinated an adorable little - hop - off the stage. No mishaps and an appreciative audience. A good morning all around.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-83990148172795549832010-11-07T20:17:00.005-06:002010-11-07T20:29:35.220-06:00Happy Blue Dress<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegB7jV0_40QCM9qfGihSKMuRJ7Og-qyzded_JY6UipH8g6R9E5WqwZclTTTsyDI23EuchTPLQbuqxIue448RVkyAP-5blmbsZMwABtiAp6S4m7vmGfxVYQTfU_MDhlXTuRMXLIIgnMso/s1600/DSCF2640.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 329px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegB7jV0_40QCM9qfGihSKMuRJ7Og-qyzded_JY6UipH8g6R9E5WqwZclTTTsyDI23EuchTPLQbuqxIue448RVkyAP-5blmbsZMwABtiAp6S4m7vmGfxVYQTfU_MDhlXTuRMXLIIgnMso/s400/DSCF2640.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536999810470053394" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />November's chill + 'fall back' means the Wonderbug has worn this summer favorite for the last time this year.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEIcYetbAhek4HZHdgN7om52uSgH9tPr5xMJ8rCPAGJVGpq0hn1y9kBLQskR8XThG3idM3GTC7p1JtsLWruHDtY1d96r-hif1v2LENryBneyBcad-7NldbmrikVbqkKpuKPR4152J91N8/s1600/DSCF2645.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEIcYetbAhek4HZHdgN7om52uSgH9tPr5xMJ8rCPAGJVGpq0hn1y9kBLQskR8XThG3idM3GTC7p1JtsLWruHDtY1d96r-hif1v2LENryBneyBcad-7NldbmrikVbqkKpuKPR4152J91N8/s400/DSCF2645.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536997908230059458" border="0" /></a><br />Good news is I made it with growing room.<br /><br />(pattern from the Japanese sewing book Pleasant Cotton Wardrobe 3)Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-44742015857484413502010-10-30T11:15:00.006-05:002010-12-15T17:56:33.333-06:00Simple Goodness ~ Mushroom SoupCraving + impulsive purchasing of mushrooms. This has inspired a search for new dishes that feature this fairy-tale food. Which brought me to a recipe as old as the tales themselves.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mushroom Soup</span><br /><br />2 lbs. mushrooms, sliced<br />2 cups chicken broth<br />1 chopped onion<br />large pinch of thyme<br />3 T. butter<br />3 T. flour<br />2 pinches salt<br />ground black pepper<br />1 cup plain yogurt<br />1 T. sherry (opt.)<br /><br />Cook broth, mushrooms, onion, and thyme in a pot until tender, 10-15 minutes.<br />Puree this soup base in a blender, leaving about a cup of the mushrooms in a separate bowl.<br />Set aside.<br />In the pot, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Add the salt, pepper, yogurt, puree, and mushrooms. Stir well and heat through. Adjust seasonings to taste and add sherry, if desired.<br /><br />Served with a large salad, homemade bread, and lit pillars, this makes a comforting autumn supper.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In my head:</span><br /><br />~Just finished reading Tony Woodlief's <a href="http://tonywoodlief.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Somewhere More Holy</span></a>. An excellent sense of humor seasons this convicting and encouraging memoir/meditation on the refining fire that is family life.<br /><br />~Sewing the apron dress from Basics for Girls in chocolate corduroy and flannel for the Wonderbug.<br /><br />~<a href="http://thetobyshow.typepad.com/the_toby_show/2008/07/pumpkin-penne-with-rosemary.html">Pumpkin Penne with Rosemary</a> from the Toby Show blog, another fall delight.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-90608778878319760712010-05-02T14:51:00.005-05:002010-05-02T15:20:01.194-05:00Pick a Bale o' Cotton QuiltA couple of years ago my mother gave me a few faded, but treasured, cotton seed sacks that belonged to her grandmother. My nana has told me stories about her. She was a fast cotton picker, and is said to have ginned it as she went. Ah, the heirlooms of the farm girl.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7ItsbQoicLvv2KgoLRbprs8hCvAa38yEknIKN4Kgi-H1O0dv0gpeCg-RFVR0yWmbYWgdt7IGWfObdZ9kV2xXgf86fPiXoaYu2EA5hJZvPpAXNYzThlrMRiIimp8chNLZjCQVUSz0YmA/s1600/DSCF1265.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7ItsbQoicLvv2KgoLRbprs8hCvAa38yEknIKN4Kgi-H1O0dv0gpeCg-RFVR0yWmbYWgdt7IGWfObdZ9kV2xXgf86fPiXoaYu2EA5hJZvPpAXNYzThlrMRiIimp8chNLZjCQVUSz0YmA/s400/DSCF1265.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466763310280815490" border="0" /></a><br />For a long time, I wondered how I could share, display, and preserve them. Last summer, inspiration struck. <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspUPOzE058AzVE4SAyLkth9XBh22O378ANETjAd-og_CU-bQ-b0rYECi9VLP6HmHMNz80G5mGDSYFqKJW4Z8x01nEM_vCiYcZMUZyNq8ZfTL61nEUXzBAd7BpoJ7HCrEOkZ5smyVWPq0/s1600/DSCF1267.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspUPOzE058AzVE4SAyLkth9XBh22O378ANETjAd-og_CU-bQ-b0rYECi9VLP6HmHMNz80G5mGDSYFqKJW4Z8x01nEM_vCiYcZMUZyNq8ZfTL61nEUXzBAd7BpoJ7HCrEOkZ5smyVWPq0/s400/DSCF1267.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466763320020236370" border="0" /></a><br />The sacks were folded in a cabinet together with a vintage quilt top I had picked up and some striped linen. I pieced a simple top with the seed sack, then used the quilt top for the backing. <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGsDpf2h-QJuBYo7LooxcIF2v76vCGhuaLkIfw0pYyYuf7b8WPFzrHrgsb3eU_7c7le4DdBKkYqqydkhxd5otKoFL7cpSmZ0IVB4Jt5UVz1e_6xuOseHbBwfna6W7VgvRHPqOD7B-DKI/s1600/DSCF1264.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGsDpf2h-QJuBYo7LooxcIF2v76vCGhuaLkIfw0pYyYuf7b8WPFzrHrgsb3eU_7c7le4DdBKkYqqydkhxd5otKoFL7cpSmZ0IVB4Jt5UVz1e_6xuOseHbBwfna6W7VgvRHPqOD7B-DKI/s400/DSCF1264.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466763303716495074" border="0" /></a><br />The quilt is pick-stitched right down the rows in the field. Every time I worked on it, this old song played in my mind.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Jump down, turn around to pick a bale of cotton</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Jump down, turn around to pick a bale a day.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Jump down, turn around to pick a bale of cotton</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Jump down, turn around to pick a bale a day.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Oh, pick a bale, yes pick a bale, oh pick a bale of cotton, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Oh, pick a bale and pick a bale </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Oh, pick a bale a day.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my gal can pick a bale of cotton,</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my gal can pick a bale a day. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> (Chorus)</span><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my partner can pick a bale of cotton,</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my partner can pick a bale a day.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> (Chorus)</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my papa can pick a bale of cotton,</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> Me and my papa can pick a bale a day.</span><br /><br />The quilt now sits in my grandparents living room. I'm told that PawPaw fusses at Nana when it migrates from his chair to hers.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-71887460580884976112010-04-17T13:34:00.002-05:002010-04-17T13:44:37.765-05:00The Tallest MunchkinAs long as I've known her, my colorful-speeched mother-in-law (known as Dears to my children) has claimed that anyone shorter than her is a munchkin. A scant five feet herself, she teases her grandchildren and the good-humored little old ladies she works with in the kitchen at the church. <br /><br />Well, one night recently, the Professor and I were having happy supper conversation with our three little ones. To stress as fact something I'd said, the Professor stated, "And anyone shorter than Dears -is- a munchkin." <br /><br />To which the Truffle piped up, "Yes, Dears is the Tallest Munchkin."<br /><br />We lost it.<br /><br />Which is why her perpetually chilly Dears received a pink hoodie emblazoned with a three-leaf clover and the new moniker "The Tallest Munchkin" for her un-birthday this year.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-58836303026954684662009-10-09T15:46:00.003-05:002009-10-09T15:55:08.925-05:00Anticipating Autumn ChillsThe Wonderbug is so pleased with herself. And rightly so. She designed and knit this scarf herself. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrN9Cx83EA8huAb6OOSdAvZIaxcvopsbUppdf37MsIB8r4VvATglbEhTxqVVm6nMrA2bGCAlDEmW8uhpqMaSwnk53RfXBJo5ZeM5nA7-XhdlIP5bVVzYOBeCyyBHBRiW95ZdKr7bwk2s/s1600-h/DSCF1023.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrN9Cx83EA8huAb6OOSdAvZIaxcvopsbUppdf37MsIB8r4VvATglbEhTxqVVm6nMrA2bGCAlDEmW8uhpqMaSwnk53RfXBJo5ZeM5nA7-XhdlIP5bVVzYOBeCyyBHBRiW95ZdKr7bwk2s/s400/DSCF1023.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390705161190761890" border="0" /></a>Her favorite features are the wooden button, the fringe to match her hat, and that it is yellow- her color of the moment. The earflap hat is one I knit last year from a Peace Fleece pattern I've used many times. Jack Frost, she is so ready for you.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-23042411164519875602009-07-21T20:54:00.007-05:002009-07-21T21:43:50.846-05:00Hindsight/ForesightLooking back, there were so many signs. She wouldn't walk into a dim room. The glass knobs on our doors were always taking her down as she went through the house. She didn't like to run, and even when she balanced on the bike, her rides never lasted more than a few feet. The anxiety aspect of her tummy troubles...<br /><br />Then we began reading lessons, and her little nose always ended up a scant inch from the page. Then I knew. Off to the pediatric opthamologist we went.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPxf5t4BJdOWGFAzJxXOGixNsJfZK-p0OS-0RX48XYjh67-JT1Nakrje8YpyAG1VsrFt305J2jG8L0yajkJTM7XeN5g3eCGnFv3cEuegV6BFh3iP8IZZl6ZMBUSsQJEiqmfhc1AEFT0Y/s1600-h/DSCF0535.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPxf5t4BJdOWGFAzJxXOGixNsJfZK-p0OS-0RX48XYjh67-JT1Nakrje8YpyAG1VsrFt305J2jG8L0yajkJTM7XeN5g3eCGnFv3cEuegV6BFh3iP8IZZl6ZMBUSsQJEiqmfhc1AEFT0Y/s400/DSCF0535.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361101835021093954" border="0" /></a><br />Turns out our Truffle is slightly farsighted, but with severe astigmatism in both eyes. The world has been a blur for her. Literally. At all distances. She couldn't even see the largest picture on the eye chart, the equivalent of the big 'E'.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimtc-1E_vrlwruW_Uf_r_GkMdgrV31mneYhLZgRWy9nzWNe9C9UrKOFrc-EJ8kS_prBmI4ee03EmFLnyOfsU7JHqgOBKMdVZ-l6zJNYAmHwJDQo4BzxmhpkJS7YOBPQuVkojq7xIfKWiA/s1600-h/DSCF0553.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimtc-1E_vrlwruW_Uf_r_GkMdgrV31mneYhLZgRWy9nzWNe9C9UrKOFrc-EJ8kS_prBmI4ee03EmFLnyOfsU7JHqgOBKMdVZ-l6zJNYAmHwJDQo4BzxmhpkJS7YOBPQuVkojq7xIfKWiA/s400/DSCF0553.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361104120571862962" border="0" /></a><br />Today her world changed. After the optician, Miss Sylvie, placed the rose-colored glasses on her nose, my Truffle looked up at me and said, "Mommy, I see your glasses... and your teeth!" Laughter and tears wrestled in my throat.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8c825M6eI836adRxud624P3zfshAemZ6rC2KObsWIx9M98zDxW9PyJlJvmhEAZLvpTpq7-BNO4PYmqkpmhFkyq7PEbY9h84tmqhrFUYxuNaeiamL0E2NeWm9rWsLaBF40kHnjtkOH3-Q/s1600-h/DSCF0555.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8c825M6eI836adRxud624P3zfshAemZ6rC2KObsWIx9M98zDxW9PyJlJvmhEAZLvpTpq7-BNO4PYmqkpmhFkyq7PEbY9h84tmqhrFUYxuNaeiamL0E2NeWm9rWsLaBF40kHnjtkOH3-Q/s400/DSCF0555.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361105610766760722" border="0" /></a><br />So now there is so much to look forward to... bike rides that go down the block 'the longest way' and 'the shortest way', seeing each leaf rustle as the wind passes through the cottonwood, running full bore after her sister through the house, and perhaps facing the world with a stouter heart. A brave Piglet* she will be.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />* Piglet-Iglet-Wiglet is the Wonderbug's pet name for our little Truffle, based (we believe) on her resemblance to a certain Piglet in the Hundred Acre Wood, whom you should get to know, when you have a chance, through the writings of A. A. Milne.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-35223381510561442152009-07-17T22:02:00.003-05:002009-07-17T22:31:24.555-05:00Hoppity Hop<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3le9VLu1iWgtz0DMQsI7pjxQX1O8O68402G3dl6SguxK4W7AoLUWyrO2-qlRMeCff6JkNw39tOlRGpXLc8_D9gJwt2YIeKWmtS7lGmAvm5wRikMfqCbWBXrMGm9zU4dcplsJH-Ai7E0Y/s1600-h/DSCF0509.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3le9VLu1iWgtz0DMQsI7pjxQX1O8O68402G3dl6SguxK4W7AoLUWyrO2-qlRMeCff6JkNw39tOlRGpXLc8_D9gJwt2YIeKWmtS7lGmAvm5wRikMfqCbWBXrMGm9zU4dcplsJH-Ai7E0Y/s400/DSCF0509.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359637052401057186" border="0" /></a><br /><br />A bunny set.<br />A violin.<br />A special dress.<br /><br />My sweet Truffle is five years old. She received her three wishes, plus a bonus. Her eye doctor gave her the gift of good vision. If all goes well, she will have glasses by the end of next week.<br /><br />Sewing details...<br />The apron dress is from the Japanese pattern book <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/glittergoods/1140433578/">Basics for Girls</a>. I splurged a bit for the Heather Ross unicorn double gauze. It is a dream. Soft and floaty, and it didn't shrink at all like I'd feared.<br /><br />The bunny set is from the <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/bunny-hat-and-paw-mittens/">Purl Bee tutorial</a>. I used white wool felt, pink cotton, and lined it with raw silk, all from my stash. I added some top stitching for stability and an extra centimeter all around to make it a size 5. A fun project that I'll be adapting into a bear set for Little Bear's birthday next week. He needs one.<br /><br />Whenever I see the bunny hop by, this runs through my mind...<br /><br /><table id="table21" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"><tbody><tr><td valign="top" width="30"> </td> <td style="width: 100%;"> <span style="font-size: 20px; font-family: Trebuchet MS; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><b> Hoppity </b></span> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <br /> </td> <td rowspan="2" valign="top" width="100"> <!----> <div bgcolor="#f1f2f2" align="left"><br /></div> <div align="left"><br /></div> </td> <!--</span>--> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top"> <table id="table23" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody><tr> <td valign="top" width="30"> </td> <td style="width: 100%;" valign="top"> <span style="font-size: 14px; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Christopher Robin goes<br />Hoppity, hoppity,<br />Hoppity, hoppity, hop.<br />Whenever I tell him<br />Politely to stop it, he<br />Says he can't possibly stop.<br /><br /> If he stopped hopping,<br />He couldn't go anywhere,<br />Poor little Christopher<br />Couldn't go anywhere...<br />That's why he always goes<br />Hoppity, hoppity,<br />Hoppity,<br />Hoppity,<br />Hop. <br /><br />A. A. Milne<br /> <span style="font-size: 20px;"></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-59966524809296750452009-06-04T21:16:00.003-05:002009-06-04T22:10:05.274-05:00Spring into Summer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3636/3596355043_1ba9ed1f17.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3636/3596355043_1ba9ed1f17.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">The garden is green and lush, not yet decimated by insects, drought, or heat, and the Wonderbug has a new dress.<br /><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3597163812_b8f2933e51.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3597163812_b8f2933e51.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"> The vintage oraange buttons are compliments of my Granny Billie. My sweet friend Ann lent me one of her Japanese sewing books for the pattern. It went so well, I ordered my own copy. After all, there are birthdays coming up, and little girls must have birthday dresses.</span></span>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-20575004105637778452009-02-01T14:47:00.008-06:002009-02-01T21:04:01.121-06:00Out from Under a Cloud<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3370/3238126993_1cf2591ede.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><br /><div>The specialist we took our Truffle to see about her tummy troubles recommended an endoscopy, so last week we finally received some long-awaited information. The acid is not caused by GERD, esophagal hernia, allergies, ulcers, or celiac disease. It is simply a symptom. Not of anything dreadful or lifelong. Her chances of outgrowing it are good, and we've found it is manageable with a little lemon balm tincture (a calming and anti-spasmodic herb that is safe for young children) and a lot of love and consideration. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3479/3239212412_0978df8a3f.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div>For her morning in the hospital, she packed a few necessities. Bear-Bear and Silkie, of course. Her <a href="http://thoughtandthimble.blogspot.com/2008/01/bit-pig_28.html">Bit Pig</a> and Chickie quilt. And for good measure I sneaked in a new book, the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Milly-Molly-Mandy</span> stories, along with a current favorite, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Oh Say, Can You Say?</span> by Dr. Seuss. She was excited about the prospect of wearing jammies out of the house, and chose her <a href="http://thoughtandthimble.blogspot.com/2008/02/hello-birdies.html">hello, birdies</a> and new matching puppy housecoat that came at Christmas. She adored the anesthesiologist, a gentle-hearted bear of a man who doted on her and soothed my anxious spirit. Everything went beautifully, and now the cloud of fear and confusion that had been glooming over us for so many months is dissipated. And we are grateful.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3341/3238376865_6ebb9a804f.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Details on the Robe: This vintage pattern is not for the faint of heart, but I found the extra time and head-scratching gave a pleasing and cozy little housecoat. I opted for the double-breasted version, and skipped the doll-sized robe for now, even though I've cut it out. Perhaps a Valentine's Day gift for Bear-Bear... who also came through the procedure quite well, and has the hospital jewelry to prove it. One thing I love about vintage patterns is that they occasionally carry very useful notations, like the one you see above. I did add the suggested 2 inches in length, and the Truffle will probably get another year of snuggly puppy happiness as a result. </div>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-38365038916494042462008-11-04T14:21:00.003-06:002008-11-04T14:37:08.832-06:00Tomato Daze<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3173/3000974501_f03d73453a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3173/3000974501_f03d73453a.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">The last of our garden harvest came in last week. A small mountain of tomatoes, peppers, and a few stray okra. Lots of herbs are hung to dry along the kitchen ceiling-- rosemary, greek oregano, tarragon, three different sages, and lemon balm. Lastly, there were the basil plants, removed whole, stripped of their leaves and made into pesto for the freezer. More basil must be planted next spring. That is the beauty of fall garden cleanup: the fresh canvas for planning next year's garden. </div>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-37914187657981791532008-11-03T21:57:00.005-06:002008-11-03T22:35:05.385-06:00Village Frock with Bears<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/3000977275_692bae8a1a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/3000977275_692bae8a1a.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />My Truffle needs all the cheer she can come by right now. She has been having tummy troubles (GERD) since early summer, and we are making another trip to the doctor's office tomorrow, hoping further testing will reveal a cause. I whipped up this little outfit to brighten her week. <br /><div><br /></div><div>This little dress and pinafore are made from the pattern over at <a href="http://sugarcityjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/village-frock-in-red.html">Sugar City Journal</a>. I used the Goose Girl variation and improvised the pinnie. Cut size 4, but used the size 5 length. The fabrics are a lightweight plaid shirting and a fine Japanese twill with bears and delicious-looking trees. It has three pockets across the front, the middle of which is just big enough to hold a very special Bear-Bear. </div><div><br /></div><div>_______</div><div><br /></div><div>On another note: We celebrated the long-awaited time change with a new game, played in the now early evening darkness. It is a German board game called <a href="http://www.thewoodenwagon.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=Prod&Product_Code=GWK711">Shadows in the Woods</a>, and is delightful for the whole family. Ok, not toddlers, but they're asleep (hopefully!) by the time the game begins anyway. Darkness and candlelight are fascinating at any age. The dwarfs, woods, and forest creatures just frost the cake. </div>Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-1927481661488880582008-10-05T22:44:00.003-05:002008-10-05T23:30:39.913-05:00Summer, Goodbye<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3084/2917021829_1cdb5b9a9f_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3084/2917021829_1cdb5b9a9f_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Autumn is settling in with the slow rains, and I'm putting away some of my summer favorites to make room for the sweaters and corduroy jackets that are making their way out of the window seat in the girls' room. This is a skirt made from <a href="http://thoughtandthimble.blogspot.com/2007/09/sewing-in-foreign-language.html">Girly Style Wardrobe</a>, view D with two pockets, and a Waldorf-ish sack doll from a pattern in <a href="http://www.hawthornpress.com/books/wal-doll.html">Kinder Dolls</a>. My Truffle calls these her Zucchini Skirt and Zucchini Doll, which I just love. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2917733020_8784690ec0_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2917733020_8784690ec0_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Lucky for me, the skirt ran big, so we'll have another summer or two to enjoy it. The doll won't be banished for the winter. She resides with the Second Tier of Important Toys on the foot of the Truffle's bed. First Tier Toys (currently Bear Bear, Chickie, Old Silkie, and Baby Asia) stay by her pillow.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-2891398088077339182008-04-14T22:08:00.003-05:002008-04-14T23:41:40.988-05:00Sweet Stripes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2392/2414590427_ab2dfc64b7_b.jpg"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class="on down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2392/2414590427_ab2dfc64b7_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Mmmm... This is the striped seersucker set I mentioned <a href="http://thoughtandthimble.blogspot.com/2008/04/spring-suit.html">before</a>. So soft and cuddly and just a bit reminiscent of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessie_Willcox_Smith">Jessie Wilcox Smith</a> nursery book illustrations. I did shorten the grosgrain ties, even though I loved them long. The cap was initially deemed 'a little bonnet-ish' (read 'girly') by the Professor, but was upgraded to classic once the ties were cut to a sporty length. This worked out best all around, as immediately after snapping this photo, Little Bear found the ties and undid them, eventually taking the cap off in the process.<br /><br />I did have the presence of mind to fuss over the thread spool and bobbin colors, resulting in a reversible cap. It is lined in the green linen of the previous pair of pants, and thus does double duty. A white linen shirt in a different style will be next, just need to get the fabric laundered.<br /><br />Also:<br />~ If you are needing a little girl dress fix, do visit <a href="http://romanceandtheroses.blogspot.com/2008/04/red-rickrack-baby-sundress.html">Clare.</a> Her white vintage baby dress trimmed in an abundance of red rick-rack is adorable and inspiring.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-2363128809540899022008-04-10T22:35:00.005-05:002008-04-10T22:56:04.023-05:00A Surprise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2375/2081844244_8959f42b4d_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2375/2081844244_8959f42b4d_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This isn't quite the way it happened here today. The surprise for us was how much dirt could blow after a lovely, rainy day yesterday in which we received almost one whole inch of rainfall.<br />Surely Eastern New Mexico will be wanting some of their sand back.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2051/2081842234_11ef2086d6_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2051/2081842234_11ef2086d6_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The illustration is from this darling little book from 1944, found at our Friends of the Library book sale last fall. I don't think I'd ever seen another like it, filled with beautiful picture tellings of everyday occurrences, like getting a car out of the mud, and natural life, like the nesting habits and communal lives of quail.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2152/2081847140_fda6c69c91_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2152/2081847140_fda6c69c91_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>So much said without a word.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-28413019518925401742008-04-09T20:07:00.006-05:002008-04-10T22:24:52.932-05:00A Spring Suit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2135/2400856743_76b30bf22e_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2135/2400856743_76b30bf22e_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This spring suit of linen short pants and a muslin shirt were intended for my Little Bear's Easter outfit. He was ill over Easter weekend, though, so I snuggled him and sang my favorite resurrection hymns to him while the rest of the family went to worship. I set finishing these aside until last week.<br /><br />The short pants are buttery 100% linen in a so soft, baby green. For the shirt I debated between silky all-cotton batiste and muslin. Since I'd never made a baby shirt before, I went with the muslin. This worked out well since I made the cusstomary (yes, I meant that) minor-but-wonky mistakes. The buttons are mismatched vintage pearl from my collection. I intended to have matching buttons for this shirt, but sometimes the buttons choose themselves, it seems, and that little cafe au lait one wanted to be worn near the green linen.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2270/2072494307_dba28385f1_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2270/2072494307_dba28385f1_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The pattern is from this book, ISBN 9784579109968. I made the 12 month sizes. This worked beautifully for the pants, as they go over a fluffy cloth diaper, but the shirt has more growing room than is really required, so for the next shirt (in white 100% linen I found today in the remnant bin!) I'm going to use the 6 month pattern.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2358/2072495925_018b168bdc_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2358/2072495925_018b168bdc_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I've already cut out, and nearly finished, a matching brimmed pilot's cap (above, left) in the green linen and a striped cotton seersucker. Of course, I had to cut out the short pants from the seersucker as well. These tiny boy projects go so quickly and are so completely lacking in ruffles, that I may become thoroughly addicted to sewing for boys.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5234464843269132044.post-69318626633152701982008-03-30T21:43:00.003-05:002008-04-10T22:30:32.853-05:00Seed FeverThe Wonderbug and Truffle planted the first seeds of the season today. Little glass pots of sweet marjoram, cilantro, and Italian parsley. A few biodynamic sunflower seeds I was given in a swap. Lastly, a half-full packet of 'Shade Mix' flower seeds. We worked some compost into our inherited 'rock garden' out back for the mix. It's a pretty little bed, with a rock floe built up from flagstones and supplemented with found stones and shells, including a large, bleached conch. When we moved here, I added my terra cotta 'gazing' ball and a granite river rock I've had for an age. A weeping yaupon holly, only about five feet tall, sits over it, and a honeysuckle stands in the back corner. Each girl has a special stone there; their sitting stones, under the holly, each adjacent to a table stone. They are currently keeping pet snails there, which the Wonderbug informs me are being fattened up for the turtles, when they emerge from their winter respite, in sand pails and jars with lids fashioned from sand sieves and other, smaller pails. The snails are well fed and exercised. The girls took two wide, bowl-ish flower pots and made 'parks' so that the snails would have a place to play. One is rimmed with wood shavings, from the Professor's foray into lumberjacking, and bits of budding twigs stuck in the soil for trees. The other has a stem of lamb's ear that was accidentally pulled up root and all during the spring cleaning of the large patch behind the brick patio. After we had watered in the seeds, we returned trowels and tiny rakes to the shed, brought the glass pots of herb seeds into the kitchen, and clipped garden chives into our supper.<br /><br />A picture would have showed all this fine and dandy. But tonight I needed to tell, so a telling is what I gave.Karahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12235320595509571248noreply@blogger.com0