One Small...One Big

I completed two projects yesterday. One small... and one big.

This is the small project. It is an embroidered kitchen towel. I found the free pattern at
http://turkeyfeathers.typepad.com/turkey_feathers/embroidery/

This is my big project. I've been hand piecing this quilt for over two years. I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed doing it. (I flipped the corner over so you can see the hand piecing, but you really can't see it very well)

Now I need to get it ready to hand quilt. It may be another two years but I don't mind. I will enjoy spending more time with this fabric and I haven't had a hand quilting project for a long time.

I'll be keeping this quilt when it's finally done.

Butternut Squash Bisque

Here is a great recipe for Butternut squash bisque. The squash came out of my garden so it tastes even yummier.

I double this recipe, but here is the original. I got it from my friend Mary Alice.

2 T. Butter

1 red onion

2 cloves of garlic chopped

4 cups. peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash

5 cups. chicken stock

1 1/2 cups. cubed potatoes

1 t. paprika

1/2 cup half and half

salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a large stock pot and add the onion and garlic and cook for about 5 min.

Add everything but the half and half. Simmer for about 30 min. or everything is soft. Transfer in small betches to a blender and process untill smooth. Be careful of the hot liquids. Add the half and half. Reheat slowly. Can add a few chopped chives just before serving. Garnish each serving with a few drops of cream.

Enjoy!