Hi there.  I am loving the sunshine today…

It just makes you feel better after what seems to have been a very damp, grey winter so far.  I am sure next week (or possibly the next hour) will bring something different, but that is part of the joy of living in Aotearoa!

There has been lots going on at Annie’s after getting my “creative fix” at the Sydney Quilt and Craft Show a couple of weeks ago, I have been full steam ahead making samples for our next stitching retreat in Hanmer Spring (Friday- Sunday 9-11 August).  It is not too late to sign up if you would like to join us for this relaxed weekend of sewing, sipping and sampling with a great group of ladies.  The registration form is on the Annie’s website, or you are welcome to give us a call at the shop.
https://www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/

Coming up we will also be a merchant at the Ashburton Embroider’s Guild open day and the Waimea Quilt Show both in September.
The National Quilt Syposium 2024 in Cambridge is also coming up fast.  Class shedules are out and registrations are open for this major event, however you do not have to be registered to enjoy the merchant mall or the exhibitions.  We will be loaded up and travelling north for this event and look forward to seeing you there!
https://quiltsymposium.com/

We have a couple of great classes coming up at Annie’s with Jane Rant teaching Laura Heine’s collage techniques in this fun one day class (Saturday 7th September).  Choose one of the patterns we have in store, sort through your stash, cut stick and sew to your heart’s content!

We also have a beautiful embroidery class on Saturday 31st August which is a hand stitcher’s delight “Winter Rose Embellished Flowers”.   Tutor Maria Morrissey is a very experienced quilter and embroidery artist from Oamaru.  There are lots of techniques to be learned in this class and the work could be incorporated in a bag, quilt, cushion or framed – Places are limited, so don’t miss out!
https://www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/classes.html

If you are looking for a small project that would make the perfect gift.  This little pincushion kit is worked on 32ct linen and is $18.50 for the kit which includes threads, linen, pattern as well as fabrics to complete the pincushion.  

We have loads of cross stitch patterns in store along with linens, aida, DMC and hand dyed threads, along with lots of inspiration and encouragement.  Check us out the website and discover a new project today!
https://www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/shop-online/category/13-cross-stitch.html

Now…on to the recipe.  I love recipes that use just one pan!

Chicken and Pumpkin with a Twist of Lime (or lemon)

• 1 chopped onion
  1 clove of garlic chopped
  ½ tsp chilli flakes
  2 tsp smoked paprika
  1 tsp cinnamon
  1 tsp cumin
  500 g diced chicken
  1 diced apple
  2 cups diced pumpkin
  1 ½ cups of chicken, vegetable stock or water
  ½ lemon or lime

In a large fry pan cook the onion and garlic in a splash of oil before adding in the spices.  Add in chicken, stock, apple and pumpkin and simmer for about 20 minutes or until cooked and the sauce has reduced.  Serve with rice and a squeeze of lemon or lime.

Rachel
03 3076 277
www.anniesquilts.co.nz