December 20

Greetings! With all that's going on this week I was happy to have three bags ready for tonight. I had a demist appointment today that lasted much longer than I had hoped, and of course Thursday was their only available time. That's ok...I've been tired, and have been working one two more custom orders...and at my age, I know when I need to listen to my body and slow down (usually anyway!) The leather cases are here as well. The way they're listed in Categories shows one available, but if you click on that, it'll take you to the cases where the quality will tell you how many are available. Click to see additional pictures as well. The final product is a bit larger and can hold 6" AND 7" double pointed needles. While knitting at the demist today, I realized just how much I love mine, when I pulled my 4th needle out, and was able to whip out a business card when the hygienist complemented me on my bag.

I spent yesterday baking lemon poppy seed breads for friend and neighbors. I've had the recipe for years and in case you'd like it:

Poppy Seed Cake 1C. poppy seeds added to 1 & 1/2 C. milk. Heat to boiling point. Remove from heat and let cool for 20 minutes (or 10 minutes on a porch when it's 12 degrees outside). Cream 1/2 lb. butter with 1 & 1/2 C. brown sugar. Add 3 egg yolks (save the whites), blend well. Stir in 1 & 3/4 C. flour and 2 & 1/2 tsp. baking powder. Beat the egg whites to a peak, and fold into the batter. Add milk mixture and blend well with a whip. Squeeze in juice from half a lemon. Bake 325...ish in whatever pan it fits until it's done. After it's out of the over, and pan (but within 15 minutes) poke 2" holes all over the top and brush with:
Powdered sugar and lemon juice glaze. Powdered sugar on top is always a plus....enjoy!

For dinner tonight I sautéed sweet sausage, apples, garlic, red pepper and green pepper. I added a bit of butter and cider, cooked it down a bit, then topped halved acorn squash and baked them. Just before I took them out, I shaved a bit of cheddar cheese on top. Smells good.

I have two hats to finish up for my boys for Christmas, a few more errands this weekend, then I look forward to my sister's arrival.

I wish you all joy and holiday cheer. From my house to yours.... Peace