Sending some sunshine

2 weeks ago we had this...



Then, we went to this...

 

 

 

 

 

Just wanted to send some sunshine to those expecting MORE snow tonight!

Digging out and digging in

In case you were wondering, we got enough snow from Nemo to tunnel through!
Hope you are enjoying some sunshine, wherever you are!

Fleece Cuffs Tutorial

I found a cute mitten and hat set for little A a while back.  But...the mitten cuff doesn't cover much of her wrist, which is especially problematic in the snow and these cold New England days.

I realized it would be pretty easy to sew a longer cuff and attach it, but hadn't gotten around to it.  Then, today, we saw something similar to what I had in mind, and I wouldn't have to sew it to the mitten (score!).  For the $12.99 price, and the very simple design, I knew I would be making up a few pairs when we got home.  

The thumb hole holds the cuff in place, and the cuff is long enough to go over her sleeve.  Problem solved!  

Think you want to make some too?  This is a VERY simple sewing project - even the most beginner can do it!

You'll need two pieces of fleece.  For the kids' size, I did 6" x 6", but you could alter to make longer.  Just make sure you cut the width measurement along the stretchy grain of the fleece.

Next, finish the ends (the stretchy sides).  Really, you don't have to with fleece, but I always prefer the look.
If you don't have a serger, read on - I'll show you how with a regular machine, too!

Fold cuffs right sides together and sew the long edge (length).

Make a scant 1/2" snip on the fold 1/2" down from top edge.  

Turn right side out.  That's it!  You can wear these under gloves or mittens, or simply as fingerless mittens.  On the website of the brand we saw at the store, they make the point that kids can tuck in sleeves with these cuffs, put their coats on and STILL zip up independently!  Genius!

If you are serger-less, here's what you can do:

Zig zag top and bottom edges.  Set your machine to zig zag and turn the handwheel until the needle is on the far right of the stitch. Place your fabric under the presser foot up against the needle.  Now, when you sew, the zig zag will encase the raw edge of the fabric.  

Right sides together, simply sew the long edge with a 1/4" seam.  No need to finish.  Snip the hole and turn.

These are my size, so the measurements are 7" wide and 8" long.  I cut the hole about an inch down from the top and about an inch wide.

The very best part about these fleece cuffs?  Little ones still have access to their thumbs!  

Stay warm!

On our walk....

 

Cranberry Orange Relish

Every year, we like to give a little something for the holidays.  This year, I wanted to share my mom's Cranberry Orange Relish.  The color is gorgeous, and its sweet and sour combination is perfect on a sandwich or as a side dish. I have eaten more than my fair share this season!

Living in Massachusetts, we are lucky to find fresh bog berries (three times the size of the Ocean Spray ones!) at the local market.  This recipe is so easy, yet makes a unique treat.

Cranberry Orange Relish

4 cups cranberries, washed and picked over
1 whole navel orange, washed, ends cut off, and cut into eighths
1/2 cup sugar (or more to taste)

Place cranberries, orange pieces and sugar in the food processor.  Pulse until cranberries are finely chopped.

Let relish sit in refrigerator overnight.  Taste and add more sugar as desired.

That's it!

I'm roasting a chicken now just so I can eat the relish tonight.  It's also so tasty on a turkey cheddar panini!

Enjoy!

Photo safari

My brother has been home for a week from California. Today, we took our cameras, along with new lenses and bags from Santa, on a little photo safari. Here are a few shots to share - including one of my somewhat elusive brother (thrown in for friends who have yet to meet him after all these years).

 

Wishing you some fresh air and adventure today!

Merry and bright

Hello, my friends.

It has been a long time since I last posted - not for lack of crafting, taking photos or thinking of posts to share. We had a busy, eventful fall and it felt like every week was a call to tend to family, house and friends.

After little A turned 2, we faced a long stretch of illness. Luckily, through it all, we were blessed with good spirit and love, and now health again.

We then experienced the October snow storm that took out our power for close to a week. Again, we were blessed with good spirit, a sense of adventure and good friends to help clear the debris.

November brought two craft fairs that kept these fingers busy sewing for weeks. Both events were successful and fun - a chance to connect to community and friends new and old. We also celebrated two birthdays in our house - one for a furry friend and one for yours truly. While the number hit a bit harder this year, I am thankful for so much and consider myself a very lucky lady.

December is now here and we are in the throes of preparing for Christmas. The decorations are up, the tree is lit (cut from our backyard - it is beautiful!), gifts are purchased and parties are beginning.
It is a magical time of year and I wish all of you the very best for your seasonal celebrations.

P.S. The photo is of a holiday swag I made for a friend using many of the broken tree limbs from the October storm and berries picked on the side of the road.