Days at Buttermilk Cottage

A Passion for Blue and White

2012-02-26T23:48:00.001-05:00

Six years ago when I purchased and began planning to decorate

Buttermilk Cottage,

I decided my color palette would be red, blue and yellow.

I love the combination of the colors together.

Early on I found a wonderful fabric

that became the basis of my kitchen decorations.

I fell in love with all those blue and white

flower pots.

Imagine my delight at finding this art print,

THE ARRANGEMENT by Bobbie Burgers!

It now hangs over my living room mantel.

Next, I began collecting blue and white Chinese ceramic pots

in which to plant my violets.

Since then, my collection of blue and white

has grown...

ginger jars, candlesticks, carpet balls...

It's not just me...

TRADITIONAL HOME

often (and recently),

features blue and white motifs on their covers.

I even found a blue and white Chinese cigarette box.

I'm not so politically incorrect as to keep cigarettes in it,

but it makes a nifty holder for sweets!

What's your color passion?

Has it generated a collection for you?

At Last!!!

2012-02-19T23:24:00.000-05:00

Finally!

It took us all season to get there,

and there were times I doubted we ever would,

but FINALLY,

Mary and Matthew,

together at last!

Ahhhhh....

Morning Muffins!

2012-02-17T06:53:00.002-05:00

Last Wednesday I hosted my knitting group.

We've been knitting together for years.

We meet once a week and rotate around

to knit at each other's houses.

It's a totally low maintenance group.

The hostess is not expected to supply anything

except a place to meet.

However, being good Southern woman that we are,

the hostess always has coffee and tea available

and more often than not,

some sort of baked goodie to nibble on.

Since I try to only bake when people are coming,

my knitting group day is a fine time to try new recipes.

The January 2012, edition of SOUTHERN LIVING

provided me with

Applesauce Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a large bowl whisk together:

4 cups baking mix (Bisquick)

1/2 c. sugar

2 t. ground cinnamon

Make a well in center of mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together

2/3 c. chunky applesauce

1/2 c. milk

1/4 c. vegetable oil

2 large eggs

Add to sugar mixture,

stirring just until dry ingredients are moistened.

Spoon batter into a lightly greased 12-cup muffin pan,

filling almost completely full.

(My muffin cups are a bit smaller than one cup,

so I got 18 muffins, which were plenty big enough.)

Sprinkle Cinnamon Streusel Topping over batter.

Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Whisk together until blended:

1/3 c. granulated sugar

1/4 c. firmly packed light brown sugar

3 T. all-purpose baking mix

1/4 t. cinnamon

Stir 2 T. melted butter into this mixture

until well blended and crumbly.

Bake at 400 degrees for 18 - 20 minutes.

Cool in pan on a wire rack 5 minutes.

Remove from pan to a wire rack.

Add a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy!

Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T05:55:00.000-05:00

Have a sweet one!

What's New in My Shop this Week?

2012-02-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

One of the nice thing about being able to "stream" Netflix

is that it gives me lots of knitting time while I watch.

I've just finished and added this scarf and

slouchy hat to my Etsy shop.

Both are knitted with my very own boutique yarn

FUSION in "French Vanilla" colorway.

The Geek Squad...

2012-02-10T07:09:00.000-05:00

...was here on Wednesday.

Have you ever used them?

My experience was a good one

and I wouldn't hesitate to call upon them again.

This was a Christmas present.

I managed to connect it up to my television,

but my attempts to connect it to the Internet

for "streaming" purposes were hopeless.

(I make NO claims at being a geek.)

They had me at the front door,

when two young guys arrived

and slipped on their booties to cover their shoes.

(Who does that???)

In a matter of time everything was connected

and I was good to go.

It was funny that both of them couldn't

get over how "small" my television is.

(I didn't tell them the set they were working on,

IS my big TV!)

Seems the "bigger the better" is the current way

to choose a new set.

They assured me when I was ready to get a new (big) one,

they'd come back and set it up.

What are your plans for the weekend?

Maybe I'll watch a movie or two...

By the way, thank you Rick and Terry for

your lovely Christmas gift!

Sew Busy!

2012-02-07T19:43:00.000-05:00

This is my office chair with a "just finished" slip cover.

Just before I moved into Buttermilk Cottage six years ago,

I sent out my desk chair and had it reupholstered

in a pretty blue to match my new office/sewing room.

The newly done chair was delivered before

I actually moved into the house.

I then had the cable/Internet company come and

get all that stuff wired and set up.

Since my "new" chair was in place in the room

where the cable guy was working,

he planted himself on my new chair!

The one I hadn't even sit in yet!

When he left, I discovered a spot on my chair!

Can you see it?

I tried rubbing it with a clean cloth and water,

but probably made it worse.

So, I've lived with it all these years.

Over time the blue has faded

so it was time to give the chair something

new to wear.

I discovered McCall's pattern, M4404 and thought I'd

try my hand at slipcover making.

On a recent trip to Ikea I had picked up a

white cotton bedspread they call "Indira."

I liked the texture of it and had

no plans for it, so thought I'd use it.

I wanted something I didn't have to

worry about fading (white=perfect),

and could throw into the washer and dryer,

(100% cotton=perfect).

First step was to wash and dry the bedspread.

After cutting out the pattern,

I placed the pieces on the chair to check the fit.

My chair's back fans out and the

pattern's is straight.

So I did a little alteration to the pattern,

adding the extra width and shape with extra paper.

The chair got another fitting and it looked okay.

Next came placing the pattern piece on the fabric and cutting them.

Once I started sewing, there were many more

"fittings" as I went along.

And some basting was needed to

make sure everything fit.

It was quite a lesson in slip covering a chair

I'm fairly happy with the finished results,

although I already know I'll do it again,

and make more revisions to the pattern for

a better finished fit and look.

Wouldn't it be perfect in a white matelasse?

I recently passed up a white matelasse bedspread

in a consignment shop ($35.00) which would

have been perfect!

Lesson learned, get things when you find them,

even if you're unsure where you'll use them!

This week I'm sharing at

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style.

Winter Interlude

2012-01-22T20:36:00.001-05:00

My sister Nancy and I have just returned from a week long,

winter interlude which included a few days in Florida.

Last Monday we drove to Atlanta,

did some shopping,

(Pottery Barn, Ballard, Ikea--yeah!)

visited with an old friend of Nancy's,

Dodd, who graciously shared his

home with us for the night.

Dodd has just purchased a mid-century house

in Atlanta and it was fun seeing it and

hearing his all his plans for it.

The next day, we drove to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

My dear friend Carolyn (you can read more about her here)

had rented a condo for the entire month of January

and had invited us for a visit.

Santa Rosa Beach is on the Gulf.

Although the weather was not warm enough for swimming,

it was fine for walking on the beach.

Seaside, Florida is just a few miles from Santa Rosa.

I have heard about Seaside for years and it was fun to finally see it.

The houses are all varied and charming.

This is the view from Carolyn's condo.

We spent several lovely hours sitting on her balcony

enjoying the blue sky, blue water and warm sunshine!

All good things must come to an end and

we made our way home on Friday,

staying the night in Chattanooga.

We had planned a stop in Montevallo, Alabama

which is the home of Nancy and my alma mater,

the University of Montevallo.

However, as we left the sunshine state,

the sunshine left us.

It was so rainy, gray and foggy

we opted not to stop.

Last night it was home again, home again,

jiggity jig!

I always love going,

but I always love getting home again too!

View from My Window Today

2012-01-13T12:08:00.000-05:00

We had our first snow fall last night.

And although it wasn't a lot of snow,

it's a bitter cold, with a howling wind blowing,

kind of day.

And, they're saying on the news there's black ice.

I can attest to that.

When I took Daisy out for her first walk this morning,

it was too slippery to walk on the sidewalk.

It's a good day for staying inside and

maybe doing a little photo shoot.

Maybe, just maybe it would also be a good day to

tidy up a little.

I'll probably just spend my time knitting.

This is my current project,

a Fusion Yarn scarf in "Plum Pudding" colorway.

Yum!

Whatever you're doing today,

have a nice one!

Cookbook Collections

2012-01-09T21:36:00.002-05:00

google images

Recently I've done a little reorganizing of my cookbooks

and came across this one I had forgotten.

It was my grandmother's and copyrighted in 1933.

A real "vintage" cookbook...

...with "vintage" ideas.

Can you image this spread as a morning's baking???

I have to admit I never reach for this book when I'm

searching for a recipe.

When I moved into Buttermilk Cottage

I did a MAJOR downsizing.

One of the things to go was a

huge cookbook collection.

I was recently divorced, Kate had gone off to college,

I was starting a new life in a smaller home

and decided the cookbooks could go.

However, Grandma's book stayed with me.

Here are a couple I have used a lot over the years,

which were also spared the cut.

You can tell by the torn cover,

this is a very well used one.

My high school home economics class

sold these as a fund raiser.

The recipe book I most often reach for today is this one.

It's a red, loose leaf notebook that holds all my "keepers."

Rather than a bookcase full of reference cookbooks,

I now seem to get new recipes from friends, blogs,

cooking shows, magazines, and the newspaper.

Once tried, if I think I'd ever make the dish again,

the recipe gets typed up and added to my red notebook.

It's a "keeper"!

I know this looks nice and tidy,

but I have to admit the number of recipes that inspire me

come along much faster than I can get them cooked or baked.

Tucked in under my notebook is a file folder with all those,

"I want to try that...someday" recipes.

So many recipes, so little time.

Do you have a favorite cookbook

for which you most often reach?

This week I'm linking to a vintage cottage cooking party at

Etsy Cottage Style

French Script Fabric

2012-01-07T06:30:00.001-05:00

Google Images

Yes, it's everywhere.

And it's been around for quite a while now.

But I'm still loving it.

Google Images

Pillows are probably one of the most predominate uses for it.

Google Images

Even the humble burlap with some French words stamped upon it

is elevated to a higher level.

On a recent fabric buying trip I finally acquired some for myself.

This is from Waverly, called "Pen Pal."

It's a fairly large scale print on a mottled beige background.

There's even a touch of gold metallic for some glam,
(as if anything French needed more glam).

Yardage for sale is available at my etsy shop.

I will be using it for needle cases,

in a variety of styles.

Here's one for double point needles.

This is a hanging organizer for circular needles.

I'll also be lining an occasional bag with it.

Do you like French Script fabric?

Have you found any unique uses for it?

Bon Jour!

Adding to Special Collections

2011-12-29T09:12:00.001-05:00

Traditions are what make holidays personal and special.

I have been collecting "Santa on Animals" for many years.

When I could never find my favorite animal,

a sheep with Santa riding on it's back,

my daughter Kate made one for me.

Thus began one of my dearest holiday traditions.

For the past several years,

Kate has gifted me a new addition to my collection.

(You can read about the others here and here.)

This year I got "Santa on a Cow!"

Isn't she a charmer?

She's right at home with the rest of the crowd.

As if this wasn't enough to thrill her Mom,

Kate also gifted me with a clay "Pinky"

to add to my flock.

If you're a regular visitor here,

you know about "Pinky."

She's right at home with the rest of the flock!

Thank you, darling girl Kate!

This week I'm partying at

Open House Party Thursday at No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Revisiting Artisan Bread 101

2011-12-27T17:54:00.000-05:00

Kim at Savvy Southern Style today offered an invitation
to re post something we've done this year
for this week's linky party.
I looked back at my posts for this year and
this one was the most visited,
so I'm bringing it back for the occasion.
I'm still making it and
still loving it!

Remember when bread machines were the
"must-have" kitchen appliances?

For many years I had one that gave

me excellent results and

I never bought bread.

I literally used it to death.

However, my bread efforts were never

as successful with my second bread machine.

So, I gave up bread baking and contented myself

with this "not-too-bad" store bought one.

Then last year at a knitting retreat

I tasted a friend's "baked that morning"

artisan bread.

I came home determined to

start baking bread again.

With some Internet investigations

I have found an extremely easy

method to make artisan bread.

(from Google images)

I am simplifying the recipe here, but you can

go to source with this book.

If you do try this method, please

go to this website for the complete

and detailed instructions.

Four simple ingredients are ALL you need.
Place 3 cups lukewarm water in a large bowl.
Add 1 1/2 T. granulated yeast (2 packets)
1 T. kosher or other coarse salt
6 1/2 c. flour, unsifted, unbleached, all-purpose

Aren't these measuring spoons great?
They were a Christmas present!
Thank you Rick and Terry!

Mix with a wooden spoon.
Kneading is unnecessary.
Mix just until there are no moist patches.

Cover (not airtight) and allow to rise at
room temperature for
approximately two hours.
At this point you are ready to bake,
or refrigerate the dough (covered) until you are.
I usually make the dough and then
bake on another day.
The refrigerated dough is
easier to handle than when
it is at room temperature.
The dough can be stored for up
to two weeks.
Refrigerating the dough for
at least 24 hours improves the flavor.
On baking day,
sprinkle the surface of your dough with flour
and divide it into four equal portions.
I "cut" it into portions with a knife,
then scoop out one section at a time.
Flour your hands, take one
portion and shape it into a smooth ball.
Do not spend a lot of time or effort here,
this should take less than a minute.

Place the loaf on a lightly oiled
and floured baking sheet.
I always bake all four loaves
at the same time
and freeze three loaves
for later.
Let the dough rest for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, began preheating
your oven to 450 degrees F.
When you turn on the oven,
place an empty broiler tray
on a lower shelf in the oven.
After 20 minutes (dough has now
rested a total of 40 minutes)
you are ready to bake.
(Don't be concerned if your oven
hasn't yet reached the
desired temperature.)
Dust with flour and slash the
tops of your loaves.
I also sprinkle the tops of all
four loaves with a bit more
kosher salt.
Place loaves in oven and
pour 1 cup of hot tap water into
the broiler pan you've been
preheating. This creates the
steam which will give your
bread a nice crunchy crust.
Bake for about 30 minutes.
Crust should be nicely browned
and firm to the touch.

It doesn't get much simpler,
or better,
than that!

I am linking this post to
Wow us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

The Kitchen Tree

2011-12-23T20:13:00.000-05:00

How is it possible that this is Christmas weekend???

This has been an incredibly busy season for me.

Beginning in early November with our Holiday Show,

on to Thanksgiving and having Kate home for the weekend.

Then, decorating and shopping for the holidays.

After that, my brother Rick and I made a quick trip together

to visit our parents.

All the while, I've also been working diligently to get

my Etsy orders shipped in a timely manner and

producing new items to restock the "shop."

Whew!

As a result, I haven't done a single holiday posting.

I didn't want you to think I was a total Scrooge.

I am enjoying lots of pretty holiday decorations.

One of my favorites is a small kitchen tree

for which I've been collecting ornaments for many years.

So, let me pour you a cup of tea

and let's enjoy the tree for a bit!

Would you like a gingerbread cookie?

Or perhaps a s'more?

I think I'll have a lovely sugar dipped cherry

and some whipped cream.

This is an ornament a good friend, Debby made years ago.

It's one of my favorites.

Perhaps we could share

some favorite recipes?

Real espresso cups make ideal ornaments for a kitchen tree.

Sitting atop my little kitchen tree is the Chef.

He helps me with holiday meals.

Thanks so much for letting me share

the kitchen tree with you.

I've already been thinking of resolutions for the new year.

One of which is to be a better neighbor in Blog Land,

visiting you and inviting you into Buttermilk Cottage!

Happiest of holidays to each and every one of you!

From My Book Shelf--ONE DAY

2011-12-17T22:59:00.000-05:00

I have just finished ONE DAY by David Nicholls.

It seemed to take me for...ev...er...to get through this book.

Normally, this is the type book I would love.

It's a "relationship" story of

Emma and Dexter,

who have a one night stand on the

night of their graduation from university.

From there the book proceeds through the next

twenty years of their lives as they go their separate ways,

always to reconnect again, at least once a year.

I found these two characters extremely irritating.

Emma has a mundane start with

lowly, boring jobs, boyfriends, etc.

However, her aspirations to write are eventually fulfilled.

Dexter on the other hand, starts on a high plane.

He's the one who always falls into the right spot

and success.

However, as Emma's life improves, Dexter's

spirals down due to drugs and alcohol.

Despite all this, they have a sincere attraction,

and always maintain their friendship/relationship.

The twenty year span of the novel was a l...o...n...g time

for these two characters to maintain this reader's interest.

Neither is very likable, both are whiny.

I'm going to be blasphemous and recommend you

see the movie, rather than read the book.

I actually saw the movie a few months ago,

and did not realize the book was

same story until I got started with it. (Duh...)

I liked the movie and let's face it,

you can't go wrong with much

in which Anne Hathaway stars.

Cherry Filled White Chocolate Blondies

2011-12-15T19:56:00.001-05:00

It's holiday baking time and this is my all-time favorite cookie.

So, if nothing else, it will get baked for the holidays!

Cherry-Filled White Chocolate Blondies

1/2 c. butter

1 (12-oz) pkg. white chocolate morsels, divided

2 large eggs

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 t. almond extract

1 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 t. salt

1/2 c. cherry preserves

1/2 c. sweetened flaked coconut

1/2 c. sliced almonds

Melt butter in a saucepan over heat, stirring just until melted.

Remove pan from heat,

and add 1 cup white chocolate morsels.

DO NOT STIR.

Beat eggs at high speed with an electric mixer

two minutes or until foamy.

Gradually add sugar, beating until blended.

Stir in white chocolate mixture and almond extract,

stirring until blended.

Add flour and salt, stirring just until blended.

Spread half of the batter into a lightly greased

and floured 8-inch square pan.

Bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes

or until light golden brown.

Melt 1/2 c. cherry preserves in a small saucepan

over low heat, stirring often.

Spread evenly over partially baked

blondies in pan.

Stir together coconut, remaining

1 c. white chocolate morsels,

and remaining half of batter.

Spread over melted cherry preserves,

spreading to edges of pan.

(Can you tell my pan is "well-used"?)

Sprinkle batter with 1/2 c. sliced almonds.

Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.

Cut into 16 bars.

Heaven on a plate.

You'll find me partying at

Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage

Tasty Tuesdays at 33 Shades of Green

New in My Etsy Shop

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

It seems as though

I've been keeping my sewing machine

running non stop for the past several days!

I've just listed this pretty new

knitting bag at

my Etsy Shop.

It has a rich paisley lining.

I've also made needle cases to match!

Don't forget Etsy when doing your

Christmas shopping.

The possibililties are endless!

My Dining Room's Identity Crisis!!!

2011-11-29T19:46:00.000-05:00

In the span of less than two weeks time,

my dining room has gone from this....

...to this...

and back to this,

with a little of this...

...and this, in between.

Finally, to this, today!

My decorating is done.

Let the holidays begin!

Whew!

This week I'll be linking with

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Open House Party Thursday at No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage

Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Guilty Pleasures

2011-11-28T08:18:00.000-05:00

Did you hear about the $42 million dollars this movie earned this past weekend?

$15.00 of it was my money.

My daughter Kate was home for the Thanksgiving weekend

and like many other Americans, we went to the movies.

I'm afraid we both enjoy deriding the TWILIGHT SAGA,

(books and movies),

but we were right there with everyone else

to see the latest installment.

I only made it through the first book, but Kate has

read them all and enjoys telling me the many ways

the books fail as well written books.

She scoffs at the movies and

takes the attitude she's only seeing them

to give her poor old Mom someone to go with.

I myself have enjoyed the movies.

They are what they are.

Pure entertainment and fantasy.

Since I haven't read past the first book,

it's all an unfolding story to me.

And, if nothing else,

sitting and watching such pretty people,

vampires and werewolves not withstanding,

is a fun way to spend a couple of hours.

2011 Holiday Show Highlights

2011-11-23T18:45:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the highlights of our

2011 Holiday Fiber Show and Sale

Last weekend, Buttermilk Cottage

played host to a wonderful event

which highlighted the work of

several area fiber artists.

Our wares varied from woodturning to...

...to all sorts of wearables.

There was origami,

jewelry and

all sorts of handmade holiday ornaments.

We had felted photo albums,

hats and scarves,

and wreaths.

My bedroom became a ladies' boutique!

There were even a few little mice to be found:

A good time was had by all!

We ended the show Sunday afternoon

and I've spent the past couple of days

reclaiming my house!

Looks a bit boring today after all the activities, doesn't it?

But, we're all set for Thanksgiving and I'm heading

to the airport in an hour to pick up my sweet girl Kate,

for a holiday weekend at home.

I'm so thankful for all the joyous things in my life,

one of which is all of you!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

This week I'm linking with Kim at

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style.

Happy Birthday Rick!

2011-11-15T21:03:00.002-05:00

When I was 13 years old,

my Mom and Dad brought a new

baby brother home.

Since that day,

he's been "my" guy.

I watched Rick grow up,

and take on the responsibilities of a man.

I have seen him face many of life's most

difficult challenges with grace and strength.

Rick is a career Navy man and as a result,

has had to be separated from his family

for long stretches.

Even now, he and his sweet wife, Terry

are preparing for a three year tour of duty

in Germany.

(By the way, Terry has an incredible shop on

Etsy, Washington DC Chic.)

Some of my best memories are of times spent with Rick.

We share a love of movies, books, and cooking,

So, here's to you, Rick, the best man I know.

The other thing I know is that having you in

my life is one of the things that makes

my life sweeter.

Love ya!

Happy Birthday!

Favorite Things-- Cranberry Relish

2011-11-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

It's almost Thanksgiving and I want to share

one of my all time favorite things with you.

When you read the ingredients,

they sound very unimpressive,

and a little strange,

but I promise it's wonderful.

And easy.

Evelyn's Cranberry Relish

(named this because my friend Evelyn gave

me this recipe years ago.)

Mix the following:

1/4 c Raven's Spice (mulling spices)

1 16-oz can whole berry cranberry sauce

1 20-oz can unsweetened crushed pineapple

1/2 c chopped pecans

The wild card here is the mulling spices.

I love this stuff so much I buy it wholesale by the case.

Of course, I also sell it during the Holiday Show & Sale,

and use it in the hot and cold apple cider we serve.

Drain excess juice if necessary.

Heat in the microwave 5-8 minutes on high or

simmer in a saucepan or crock pot to thicken.

Could it be any simpler?

The beauty of this relish is what you can do with it.

Of course, it makes a great side for poultry or pork.

But, you can also use it over biscuits, pancakes or pound cake.

I LOVE it over ice cream.

And, when you're making turkey sandwiches

after Thanksgiving, put some on too.

Yumm.....

This week I'm linking with

Tasty Tuesdays at 33 Shades of Green

Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum

Coming Attractions!

2011-11-13T11:49:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, for the first time,

I saw a trailer for the upcoming movie,

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO.

I'm looking forward to it!

One of the things that slightly annoyed me about the book

was how every woman in it was

falling all over herself to get into bed with

the lead character, Mikael Blomkvist.

With Daniel Craig playing the part,

I'm pretty much over being annoyed.

Absent but not Idle!

2011-11-11T07:17:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel as though you're in a race with the clock?

As though there are not enough hours in the day,

for all the things

you need to do,

want to do?

That's my life right now.

Nancy and I are working diligently getting ready

for our upcoming Holiday Show.

One week from today is our Preview Party. (tick, tock...)

I've been frantically trying to finish up last minute projects,

organize things,

inventory and price items.

As a result, the disorder in my house is beginning to

strain my comfort level.

(Have I ever told you I'm a bit of a control freak?)

I almost can't stand to go into my office/sewing room.

As a result, some things are being ignored.

My little blog has been sadly neglected lately.

And it's been ages since I've "gone visiting!"

I have been accomplishing some things though.

The invitations are in the mail...

I have just sent off a large wholesale order of really cute bags

to Yarn Expressions in Huntsville, Alabama.

And I've completed lots of cute little sheep ornaments

made from "up cycled" felted sweaters.

What's on your "to do" list today"

Mine is a mile long.

I keep reminding myself to

"enjoy the journey."

You enjoy the weekend!

Acorn Squash--An Elegant Side

2011-11-01T07:27:00.000-04:00

Fall is acorn and butternut squash season!

Acorn Squash in its shell is a great, and easy side.

Here's how:

This recipe calls for 1 medium acorn squash,

but it's very easy to add more and adjust your recipe.

Plan on 1 squash for every 2 servings.

Cut squash lengthwise into halves

(they are very hard, so be sure you're on a solid surface),

Cover with plastic wrap.

Microwave at high for approximately 6-9 minutes.

When soft, remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.

Discard seeds and fibrous material.

Scoop out squash and reserve the shells.

In a food processor or blender, evenly chop

2 T onion

1/4 c loosely packed parsley sprigs.

Add

scooped out squash

2 T butter, melted

2 T sour cream

salt and pepper to taste

Puree until smooth.

Taste and adjust seasonings

Spoon into shells.

Sprinkle with a mixture of bread crumbs and butter

(about 1/4 slice of bread

2 t/ melted butter)

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

2 t. melted butter

Enjoy!

This week I'm linking with

Tasty Tuesdays at 33 Shades of Green

Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum

From My Book Shelf -- Two Good Reads

2011-10-30T22:14:00.001-04:00

If this book doesn't become a movie,

Ivory and Merchant have missed an opportunity.

Amor Towles', THE RULES OF CIVILITY

is a stylish, end of the Depression era,

cocktails at a Manhattan jazz club,

snappy dialogue, kind of book.

Mainly told in flashback, from the point of view

of Katherine Kontent,

it's the story of how a single incident, chance meeting

or decision made, when young, can influence and determine

the rest of one's life.

It's the story of reinventions, friendships, and heartache.

I'm a sucker for F. Scott Fitzgerald and Hemingway,

and this book's style and tone was reminiscent of theirs.

This may be one of my favorite books this year.

Although I liked THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS

by Vanessa Diffenbaugh too,

I had some difficulty getting into it.

It weaves back and forth between

the past and present of it's main character

Victoria Jones, as a nine year old

and as an eighteen year old.

Once I got into the groove of it,

the story completely kept my interest.

Victoria is an orphan, a child of foster homes,

and finally an emancipated adult on her own.

She has an inability to connect with people,

and very severe anger issues.

What she does have is an affinity with flowers

and has learned that every flower has a meaning.

Through them she slowly finds a way to

confront a terrible secret in her past,

and recognize that she has the ability to love

and be loved.

Happy Birthday!

2011-10-29T08:05:00.000-04:00

Today is my upstairs neighbor's birthday!

Is there anything better than a good neighbor?

Perhaps, your "BFF" is a bit better.

It's her birthday today too!

Best friends are...

well...the best!

Except maybe...

Sisters are the VERY best.

And, it's HER birthday too!

Best of all is when all three are the same!

Happy Birthday, Nanniepannie!

(It'd be great if you'd hop over and

give here a birthday greeting!)

Now I'm off to make her traditional

birthday carrot cake.

You can find the recipe here.

Happy weekend everyone!

Feeling Sheepish Today

2011-10-25T12:57:00.001-04:00

This is the newest addition to my flock.

He came home with me yesterday from

a day of treasure hunting with my sister.

Today I've been trying to decide where

my new lamb will live.

Most of the space here is already occupied.

These two cast iron banks sit on a window sill.

These are the salt and pepper shakers on my kitchen table.

More window-sill perchers in the kitchen.

This lovely lady was a gift from my daughter

and resides on the bookcase.

Even the bathroom is inhabited.

This fellow is the sentry just outside my back door.

I don't limit myself to just figurines.

I couldn't resist this picture of a sheep wearing a sweater.

I'll bet it's hand knitted.

This is another favorite, also a gift from my daughter.

It "bobbles" when you touch him.

He holds court over my computer.

So, you can see why the new guy

might have a problem finding a place to abide.

This week I'm linking with

Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Open House Party Thursday at No Minimalist Here

Pinkie Workshop Today!

2011-10-22T18:24:00.000-04:00

Fun day for me today!

I taught a workshop this morning

at The Carriage House,

a great local shop,

which specializes in custom framing.

About three years ago, the owner, Terri

decided she wanted to add yarn.

Did she ever!

It's now an outstanding yarn shop as well!

Terri carries my bags and needle cases,

so I asked if she'd be interested in me teaching

a Pinky workshop during October for

Breast Cancer Awareness month.

In no time, she had a full class organized for me!

I'm sorry I didn't take the time to take

more pictures of this wonderful shop,

but the class kept me on my toes!

You can read more about Pinky here.

Happy weekend everyone!

It's Pie Time!

2011-10-17T19:49:00.002-04:00

This time of year,

I start craving apple pie.

One day last week my neighbor

generously gave me some apples.

I knew exactly what I wanted to do with them!

APPLE PIE EN PAPILLOTE

2 1/2 lb. tart cooking apples, cored, peeled, cut into chunks (about 8 c.)

2 T. lemon juice

In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice.

In a small bowl combine

1/2 c. sugar,

2 T. flour,

1/2 t. ground cinnamon

dash ground nutmeg

Sprinkle over apples and toss until well coated.

Set aside while preparing pastry.

Now, I'm a bit of a slacker and I cheat with the crust.

I use the refrigerated kind.

But if you're a purist,

here is the PASTRY recipe:

1 1/3 c. unsifted all purpose flour

1/2 t. salt

1/3 c. plus 1 T. shortening

5 to 6 T. iced water

In a medium bowl combine flour and salt.

With a pastry blender, cut in shortening until

mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add water and stir with fork

until flour is moistened and pastry leaves the side of the bowl.

With hands shape pastry into a ball.

On a lightly floured surface,

roll pastry into a 12-inch circle.

Line a 9-inch pie plate with the pastry.

Make a high fluted edge to hold in the apple juices.

If you're using the refrigerated crust,

roll it out a bit larger than your pie plate

and continue as with the homemade pastry.

Spoon apples into pastry.

TOPPING:

In a small bowl combine

1/2 c. unsifted all purpose flour

1/2 c. butter, softened

1/4 c. sugar

1/4 c. light brown sugar, firmly packed

Here's a tip to keep your brown sugar moist and soft--

keep a leaf of lettuce in your air tight container.

Change out the leaf each time you use the sugar.

Stir the topping ingredients until it's a smooth paste.

Gently dollop over apples,

then spread topping...

...to cover.

Place pie in a large brown paper bag

(i.e. "en papillote")

and close the open end with staples or paper clips.

(Or wrap pie in a large piece of parchment paper.)

Place on oven rack in center of oven

(make sure the bag does not touch

bottom, sides or top of oven).

Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven

for 1 hour and 10 minutes (metal pan)

1 hour and 20 minutes (glass pan)

Remove pie from oven but do not open bag.

Let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.

Carefully cut bag open and remove pie.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Will someone please get the ice cream?

This week you'll find me linking with

Tasty Tuesdays at 33 Shades of Green

Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollom

The REAL Deal

2011-10-14T21:33:00.000-04:00

Can you ever have too many pillows?

Last weekend while "treasure hunting"

with my sister,

I found the three large pillows above.

Five dollars each.

They're not pristine, but they're in quite good condition.

They've already been through the washing machine,

and as you can see, they came through fine.

Along with them were two small cushions,

done in the same fabric used on the

backside and piping of the large pillows.

Four dollars each.

How could I resist when the colors

are so perfect for my front porch?

Not to mention,

it's the same fabric I'm using in the

kitchen's window treatments!

I think it gives a nice sense continuity.

These past few weeks must be my

period of pillow nirvana

because recently at Ikea,

I picked up these two large blue pillows,

also for five dollars each.

And that my dears, is the real deal!

Final Progress Report...or Infestation!!!

2011-10-12T08:28:00.000-04:00

If you've been keeping up

I've been telling you of my efforts

to knit 100 little sweaters

for 100 little mice.

(Don't judge me.)

"Before"

"After"

The final couple of dozen were finished up

on a recent trip to the beach.

Great place for some mindless knitting.

I'm happy to say they are all finished!

Just in time for the

Buttermilk Cottage Holiday Fiber Show!

The date has been set,

November 19 & 20, 2011.

So now it's time to get busy with all that!

Be sure to look for these little guys if you come!

Sharing a Great Giveaway!

2011-10-10T19:51:00.000-04:00

In case you haven't heard,

there's a fantastic Fall Giveaway over at

Two Bags Full

This is a great blog, hosted by Vicki.

Vicki is a travel writer and knitter,

and of those two passions,

who doesn't share at least one!

On November 4, Vickie is having a drawing

to give away the above Vera Bradley bag.

Can you ever have too many bags???

All you have to do is leave a comment for her

and you're entered.

In addition, Vicki is helping me out with my

Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation

fundraiser, by also giving away...

...a knitted Pinky model to anyone who posts

Pinky's picture and link.

If you're a knitter, you also have a chance to

win a Pinky kit.

There's more!

By becoming a follower of Vicki's

Facebook page, you have the opportunity

to win a second Vera Bradley bag!

Quite a giveaway,

wouldn't you say?

Remember, this all ends

November 4th, so don't wait.

From My Book Shelf - DREAMS OF JOY

2011-10-09T20:30:00.000-04:00

I have a most excellent read to recommend to you--

DREAM OF JOY by Lisa See.

This is a sequel to See's earlier book,

SHANGHAI GIRLS.

So, before you read it,

I strongly recommend you read the first book.

Although DREAMS OF JOY easily succeeds

as a stand alone book, it will be a much

more enjoyable read if you have the back story.

SHANGHAI GIRLS is the story of two Chinese sisters

living an affluent and self centered life

in Shanghai during the 1930s.

Their glamorous lives come to a sudden halt

when their father tells them he has lost his

fortune to gambling and is forced to "sell"

his two daughters as Chinese brides to

suitors from Los Angeles.

From here, the book tells the story

of the two sisters, Pearl and May,

their flight from China and

the lives they forge in America's Chinatown

as wives in arranged marriages.

DREAMS OF JOY is the continuing story of a

resulting daughter, Joy.

At the beginning of the second book,

Joy is a nineteen year old,

headstrong, University of Chicago student.

After learning that her mother Pearl,

is not actually her mother, but rather her aunt,

a disillusioned Joy, runs away to China,

to find her real father.

What she finds is a China just at the

beginning stages of Mao's "Great Leap Forward."

I found myself annoyed with Joy's optimism

of her life on a rural Chinese commune.

I had to remind myself, this story takes place

in the early 1950s, not today, and that

Joy does not have the hindsight of history I do.

Her character develops a depth and richness

as she begins to experience the deprivation and famine,

that killed as estimated 45 million people in China.

This book reminded me a lot of

Amy Tan's, THE JOY LUCK CLUB.

It also explores a period in

Chinese history that is difficult to fathom,

from extreme wealth and glamour,

to people abandoning their children because

of total poverty and starvation.

I hardily recommend both books.

If you like them, you might also read

See's, SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN

(It's a great read too!)

Tablescapes from Savannah's Paris Market

2011-10-05T19:58:00.000-04:00

As promised in my last post,

today I'm taking you back to Savannah's Paris Market

to share some of their gorgeous tablescapes.

You know you'll be lingering awhile when you step inside

the door and this is the first thing you see.

Just beyond it is a beautiful European cafe.

Note the pretty little acrylic chair.

This is a more seasonal table set up in another section of the shop.

How's this for a harvest table and buffet?

Cocktail anyone?

A third, more informal table was set up on the lower level.

The utensils are wooden, and merchandised as picnic ware.

So, there you have it.

Three tablescapes, plus a cocktail table from

The Paris Market.

If a trip to Savannah isn't in the cards just now

you might want to visit their website.

This week I'm linking with

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

My Summer's Last Hoorah

2011-10-02T22:49:00.000-04:00

Guess where I spent last week.

I know summer has been over for a few weeks now,

but my sister Nanniepannie and I

took a late vacation this year.

We spent the last week of September

lazing on the beach at Hilton Head, SC.

Hilton Head is beach and...

...golf.

Although we don't golf, we found plenty of other things to enjoy.

There are miles and miles of lovely trails for walking or...

...bike riding.

These two were complimentary with our condo.

This sign was posted just across the car park

from our condo's front door.

It was one of several like it.

When I first saw it, I thought it was

placed there for local color.

Nope!

Nancy snapped this one while on a bike ride.

The one I saw was swimming in a canal,

directly under a small bridge walkway

I was crossing.

We took a day trip to Savannah,

which was only an hour's drive away.

Be still my heart, I am smitten with Savannah.

The city was built on a grid pattern and

has twenty two squares, like the one above,

spaced every few blocks.

So, walking this "garden-city" is enchanting.

The architecture and charm of the historic district

had me wondering how I can manage

to live there someday.

We had lunch at Paula Deen's, Lady and Sons Restaurant.

I adore Paula, love watching her on television,

and often use her recipes.

That being said, the restaurant was

a bit of a disappointment.

She's so vibrant, I expected the restaurant

and food to be the same.

It wasn't. It was typical comfort food buffet,

which you can find anywhere in the South.

There are plenty of decor and interesting shops

A particular favorite of mine was

"The Paris Market."

You get the idea!

I'm the kind of person who enjoys the merchandising of

a shop's goods as much as the goods themselves.

I love looking at and analyzing displays.

The Paris Market was outstanding with its displays.

(Come back Wednesday, when I'll share more

eye candy from there.)

After a stop in Charlotte yesterday at IKEA

(Nancy and I can't get within fifty miles of an

IKEA without stopping),

we got home last night to a house so cold

we had to crank up the heat for the first time

this season.

Summer is now officially over.

Sigh...

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2011-09-30T22:27:00.000-04:00

Please remember that October is

Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This is a fight in which we all need to be involved.

Please visit my Fundraising Page if you

need a place to start.

Entrelac Hats!

2011-09-27T21:41:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite blogs to visit is

The Brick Street Bungalow.

Its writer, Tanna and I have become

virtual friends.

We share our passions for knitting

and our bungalow houses.

In fact, Tanna's icon of her house when she left a comment

for someone else blog is what first caught my eye.

It reminded me a lot of my house.

We often seem to be on similiar paths.

Earlier this month she did a blog post on entrelac hats,

which you can read here .

It just so happened I was knitting entrelac hats too!

Entrelac is a knitting stitch which gives a woven look to the finished piece.

It's fun to use more than one color to define the woven effect.

On this hat, I'm using a solid teal wool from my stash

and Brown Sheep's Handpaint

which is a space dyed mohair and wool,

one of my favorite yarns.

How about a poinsettia hat for the holidays?

Urban Renewal at its Best!

2011-09-26T07:24:00.000-04:00

I think I've mentioned before that I live in a very eclectic neighborhood.
My neighborhood is designated the "historic district" of my city.
(i.e. old houses)
The neighborhood also borders a university.
(i.e. old houses subdivided into lots of student apartments.)
So, we have a real mix in the neighborhood.
You can read all about that here .

The house above is down the street from Buttermilk Cottage
and has set vacant since I've been here.
The picture above was actually taken before
renovations began last year,
but the appearance of the house is pretty close
to what it looked like when I moved into my house.

Last summer the house was purchased.
I snapped some pictures along the rehab process.

Siding going on!

Almost done!

And voila! Quite an improvement!
The house is now on the market.
Let's hope a nice family takes up residence soon
and gives this house the TLC it needs!

From My Book Shelf

2011-09-23T06:39:00.000-04:00

What a storyteller Louise Erdrich is!

Her book, THE MASTER BUTCHERS SINGING CLUB

is a beautifully written book, full of quirky characters,

family secrets, the beautiful and the grotesque.

This book weaves around, in a completely fulfilling way,

telling the stories of its numerous characters.

You will care about them all.

(Well, maybe all except one.)

Somewhere in the midst of reading this book,

I began to realize how so many of its chapters

could totally stand on their own as short stories.

I don't particularly like short stories.

They seem to be over before you can

sink your teeth into them.

But, this book is not a book of short stories.

It's a saga, fully integrating the characters,

their relationships and their stories into a rich tapestry.

I liked this book a lot.

CALEB'S CROSSING by Geraldine Brooks

is a historical novel built upon the true fact of

the first Native American to graduate from

the newly established Harvard College.

It is told through the voice of Bethia, who at the

beginning of the book is twelve years old

when she secretly befriends Caleb,

the son of a Wamponoag chieftain.

This book is the story of Caleb's "crossing" over

to Anglo American culture as he is educated

by Bethia's father and then the university.

This is not a romantic novel.

Historically, we know Native Americans

did not fare well against America's settlers.

Caleb's story is very much a reflection of that fact.

Bethia's voice is very authentic and

I felt as though I were reading a Puritan's journal

from the 17th Century.

Office Window Redo...Finally!

2011-09-18T19:36:00.001-04:00

Six years ago when I bought Buttermilk Cottage

I had to have a small addition made to it.

There was no space for me to work,

so I got a brand new office/sewing room.

The window treatments were planned

before the room was even finished.

Unfortunately, I did not consider

the natural light/sunshine in the room.

I have two double windows in the room,

which are wonderful for viewing the garden...

...or other little distractions from work.

However, there are certain times during the day

when the sunlight streams in so strongly

I cannot see the images on my computer screen.

There have even been occasions while sewing

that the sunlight reflecting off the throat plate

of my machine makes me wonder if

sunglasses would help.

I've let this go on for six years.

First of all, I liked the window treatment I already had.

Second, I thought I would have to get

custom made blinds.

The times I checked prices for that

were enough for me to put the project on the back burner.

A few weeks ago while in Lowes I took another look at their possibilities.

Lo and behold, they had a tortoise shell, roll up blind

(the exact look I have wanted for about five years)

by Levolor which Lowes would cut to desired width,

while I waited.

I actually have carried around the window dimensions

for a long time hoping I'd at some point,

find something that would work for me.

I walked out with my four, custom-cut blinds!

Now the fun part...

Undressing the windows was no problem.

However, getting a ladder close to the windows was.

It involved unplugging computer, router, printer, internet wires,

and all the lamps, radio and other electrical things

that set upon a desk.

Then I could move the desk away from the windows

to position my ladder.

Why is it these projects ALWAYS create such

chaos and disorder???

And, of course while the windows were bare,

it was a good time to wash windows,

and really dust behind the desk,

which had not been moved since I moved in. Ugh!

One down, three to go!

I didn't mention I had to reposition the curtain rods

while in the midst of this project, did I?

Me using a power drill is not a pretty sight, trust me.

And, if I dropped one screw and had to get down

from the ladder, I dropped at least twenty!

But, you know what?

It was all well worth the effort!

Shades up.

Shades down.

No reflection on my computer screen in the middle of the day!

Since I think I may be redoing the paint in this room within

the next year, I repurposed my original curtains

to a simple valance.

Why did I wait SO long???

This week I'm linking with

Metamorphosis Monday/Between Naps on the Porch

Wow Us Wednesdays/Savvy Southern Style

Look What I Made/Creations by Kara

Transformation Thursdays/The Shabby Creek Cottage

Feathered Nest Friday/French Country Cottage

Show & Tell Friday/My Romantic Home

Fall Colors at my Etsy Shop

2011-09-16T07:31:00.000-04:00

The seasonal changes have really put me in the mood for fall colors!

This is a new tote bag at my Etsy shop.

It makes a great knitting bag!

It's lined with a pretty coordinating stripe.

And how about a pretty "Autumn" colored yarn to put in it?

(FUSION Yarn from Buttermilk Cottage)

My Big Fantasy--Being a Restaurateur

2011-09-11T21:08:00.001-04:00

We have just finished one of the busiest weekends

of the year here at Buttermilk Cottage.

It was our neighborhood yard sale,

which is a very big deal.

It's one of our neighborhood association's

bigger fund raisers for the year.

It's promoted heavily in our city and

neighboring area and brings

thousands and thousands of people

into the neighborhood.

The crowd starts early, often before the sun is even up.

Saturday morning started misty and cool.

But, the seasoned shopper knows the good stuff goes early!

Even so, there's no shortage of something to tempt everyone!

Interesting merchandising--athletic shoes and baby dolls.

Are you thinking flea market, maybe?

The sale here at Buttermilk Cottage

is always small by comparison.

But...

we have found a way to compensate!

I often fantasize about having my own

Bed & Breakfast, Tea Room or Bistro.

For one day a year, I get to do it!

I've been baking and freezing for weeks,

but by Saturday I was ready!

We started with hot coffee, muffins and

cinnamon cake early in the morning

and sold our last (#90) chicken salad sandwich

just before the yard sale ended at 3 P.M.

The porch becomes a nice oasis for weary & hungry shoppers.

As for me,

my little fantasy is usually completely satisfied

by the end of the day;

and I'm quite content to go back to my

"day job" as a knitter and seamstress.

This week I'm linking with

Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Transformation Thursday at The Shabby Creek Cottage

Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

The Creative Process for Me

2011-09-04T20:49:00.000-04:00

I start by pulling a variety of yarns,

usually in a similar or same color.

It becomes a skein of FUSION Yarn.

Then, start knitting!

This is a scarf in the making.

Hope everyone is doing something enjoyable this

Labor Day!

From My Book Shelf

2011-09-01T07:03:00.001-04:00

I have always admired Ernest Hemingway's work.

I love his "to the point, no excess baggage"

style of prose.

I remember a college professor I once had

saying of Hemingway's style of writing,

"What takes Faulkner three pages to tell you,

Hemingway will tell you in one sentence."

THE PARIS WIFE by Paula McLain is fiction,

told from the point of view of his first wife, Hadley.

If begins with their first meeting at a party,

his wooing of her, her total adoration of him,

their marriage and then their

Paris years.

If you were creative in any way,

Paris was the place to be just after WWI.

What I liked about this book is its glimpse into

Hemingway's Paris years.

I like that the book references his conscious

efforts to hone his writing into his

characteristic terse style.

The book is also a name dropper,

and it was fun to read about Ezra Pound,

Gertrude Stein, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

These were all friends of the Hemingways' in Paris

and the book does a nice job of defining how each

mentored and influenced Hemingway's writing.

The book is also a domestic drama

about Hadley and Ernest's relationship.

Hadley is presented as a "plain Jane,"

somewhat out of place in the heady Paris,

but hanging on for dear life....

or should I say "dear Ernest?"

Ernest evolves into the total egocentric

we all know he was, and before long

has moved the soon to be, second Mrs. Hemingway

into his and Hadley's life.

I enjoyed this book and it has whetted my appetite

to read A MOVABLE FEAST,

Hemingway's own version of this story.

Good Friends and a Day Out...

2011-08-28T21:12:00.001-04:00

Does life get much better than a day out with friends?

Last week my knitting buddies and I drove to

Knoxville, Tennessee to visit another friend

who now lives there.

Carolyn, wearing a cranberry vest she knitted herself,

hosted us for lunch.

Carolyn was at one time a partner in the yarn shop

I used to own with her and Anne (to the left of Carolyn).

She is the woman I aspire to be.

Carolyn is a designer, knitter extraordinaire,

and one of the most "graceful under pressure"

women I have ever known.

When we were in business together,

she used to amaze me with her boundless energy.

In fact, when I felt overwhelmed with the projects, deadlines

and work I needed to do, I would ask myself,

"What would Carolyn do?"

The answer to myself was always,

"Keep on working."

Just the motto I needed to do one

more hour of work for the day.

Did I mention she sets a gorgeous table...

...and serves a tasty meal? Yumm...

Carolyn had just completed some extensive

redecorating of her home.

One of the things she was anxious to show us was

this quilt she now has hanging in her bedroom.

The quilt is extra special because it was made

by another member of our group, Ann,

who was not able to be with us for the day.

Carolyn had purchased this quilt at one of

our past holiday shows.

As if the day wasn't lovely enough,

we visited one of Carolyn's local yarn shops

And, although every one of us has enough

yarn in our stash to open our own shop,

we all managed to find something to buy.

These two balls will go into some

pretty FUSION Yarn

someday.

This week I'm linking with

Tablescape Thursdays at

Between Naps on the Porch

Knitted Boutique Bags on Sale!

2011-08-24T21:25:00.001-04:00

I'm doing a little housecleaning at

www.ButtermilkCottage.etsy.com

I'd like to make some space for

a new shop section.

Etsy only allows ten per shop, go figure.

Right now

all my small boutique bags

are on sale at a real savings.

All these bags are hand knitted,

in my own FUSION Yarn,

fully lined,

and one of a kind.

You can take a peek here.

(Click each bag individually

at the site for its details.)

By the way, free shipping!