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!!

Just Like A White Wing Dove...

I've been invited to be a guest on Sweet Jeanette blog. I hope you'll visit Jeanette today and check out my tutorial to make your own "White Wing Dove" Mug Mat.

I've been seeing all kinds of beautiful mug mats on other blogs lately, so when Jeanette invited me to create something for her blog, I decided to create my own take on these quick and easy gifts. They only take about an hour to make, and are a great use for your scrap fabric and batting. I know I'll be making more to give!

I'm also sharing one of our easy family recipes with her (she does have a cooking blog, after all). My Instant Hot Cocoa Mix would be a perfect accompaniment to a mug mat for a friend or family member. Just the ticket for a last minute gift!

Only 5 days til Christmas! As you hurry about to complete your projects and shopping, please take a moment to remember the Reason for the Season.

Thank you to my beautiful friend, Ellen, for making the lovely Christmas centerpiece in the photo.