No Stitching for Me...

 

...at least not yesterday. About the time I was preparing to sit down and settle in with a bit of needlework, I developed an ocular migraine. They're not painful (usually), but the shimmering right in my line of vision is annoying as all get-out.

Usually, it disappears after about twenty minutes, but not this time. It went away and came back three times, so I finally said "uncle" and, following Handsome's suggestion, went to bed. By the time I got upstairs, I had an accompanying dull ache, so two Tylenol, a change of clothes and I was done for the day. My post is late, because I didn't even get that accomplished on time. Sorry. 

My day will be light duty today. I'm going to take it easy, and just concentrate on getting out our Christmas cards. If I'm up to it, I may stitch later.

 

Homemade Maple Nut Fudge

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We were on our own this year, as each of our son's families had someone sick. We opted to avoid inviting illness, so we'll gather with them when everyone is healthy again. Instead, I baked, made a few gifting goodies and watched movies with my guy. It was really nice, actually.

Homemade Brownie, Cornbread & Muffin Mixes, and Hot Cocoa Mix

•••••This post contains my affiliate links, and I may receive commissions on sales•••••

 

I purchased THESE empty plastic jars and seals to mix up homemade batches of brownies, cornbread and basic muffin mix (choose the berry of choice when mixing), as well as our homemade hot cocoa mix (link to cocoa recipe in top menu bar) with marshmallows. These are 22 oz jars, but I'm also going to get THESE 10 ounce jars for other mixes.

I also made people (homemade goldfish crackers on the left) and dog treats (my ol' standby "Kitty Litter Bites") on the right. This years' kitty litter bites only have oatmeal flour and applesauce, and the dogs all love them just the same. 

This is the label that I tie on the packages when we share them with dog friends. This year, our kid's dogs, Hudson and Lulu will again be the recipients.

 

I made a savory Garlic and Herb spread that's a dead ringer for Alouette's Garlic and Herb spread. It costs about the same as their spread, however it makes almost three times more from my recipe. Just a little light snack before dinner.

The perfect amount for two...a beef rib roast (1 rib to share), and a small gratin of potatoes, olive oil, and parmesan cheese.

I didn't forget the barn ladies, either. They got a day of cuddles and snuggles from me...along with some of their favorite treats.

I'll be tying up some loose ends today, scheduling a trip to our carpenter's to paint the pantry cabinets before he installs them next week. I'll also check in with the subs (plumber and electrician) to make sure we're on track with them, too. Lastly, I'll take another shot at stitching this afternoon. I'll share more with you tomorrow.

Happy Boxing Day!!

Grandson's Jammies...

 

More soft, cozy jammies. This time flannel for grandson. Handsome thinks they're outstanding. Good thing I purchased plenty to make a pair for him, too! (mum's the word)

I purchased a black, knit Henley for him to wear with these, in case he's cold or needs to be covered (dorm room). It's actually easier and less expensive than if I make it for him. I've done that it the past, but it's more frugal to purchase the tops for him now. Plus that style shirt can be worn during the day with jeans, too. It's not just suitable for pajamas.

I haven't decided whether today will be for painting cabinets or baking. I'll make a call up to our carpenter's house to see if the heat is on in his workshop so I can wield a brush. If he's not going to be home, I'll bake.

Happy Christmas Eve Weekend!

 

Sneak Peek...

 

While I can't share photos of finished Grammie's Jammies yet, I can give you a peek at two of the three fabrics I'm using. These are the sweetest, softest cottons to become the most lovely jammies. I think the young ladies will like them. What do you think?

Grandson's jammies are complete, so I'll photograph that fabric some time today to share with you, too. His are soft, warm flannel. I'm thinking I'll be making some for Handsome with the perfect-sized remainder.

More sewing today. Coffee, then a deep breath as I'll keep my head down today to finish them up. Lazy elves. lol

The Tree Is Up...

 

Our tree is up and decorated. I love it! This is the artificial tree I purchased the year Handsome left before Thanksgiving to make music in Florida. He was coming home for Christmas, so I wanted to decorate "over the top" for his arrival. 

I got busy, putting up lights outdoors; setting out all our vintage family pieces around the house; and decorating this 9' tree with all our cherished ornaments. He loved coming home to Christmas lights all over our property. 

The tree skirt was my first actual quilting project. I took a class at a local quilt shop (now long-gone). It turns out, I was the only student and Mom Grace was my teacher. I worked hard and made it that same day, so we call it my one day tree skirt. I fondly remember that day spent with Mom each year when I take it out to place under our tree.

I'm still working on jammies and other projects, too. I have to run to town first thing for a few bits and bobs I need at Joann's (I know. I can hardly believe it either.), and then I'll be in the studio. I guess I'll grab my morning cuppa, and then I'm off to the races. "Ladies, start your engines!" giggle See you tomorrow.