Hi there. Although I know it has been a short week for most people, it does seem to be have been quite long in my world! Not helped by a very early start this morning when the burglar alarm went off at the shop (false alarm). Some thoughtless Daddy long legs decided to do a dance in front of the sensor!

This week we have had, some more beautiful hand dyed threads from Dye Weeks arrive along with some lovely new cross stitch patterns including the new book from Blackbird Designs “Winds of Autumn” with 12 projects to stitch and sew ($49.00). I have two more shipments on the way which is all very exciting as the cross stitch obsession continues!

On a different tack...I have just finished this sample, (no sewing involved at all) using one of the Rinske Stevens kits. This one is called “Surprise” and comes with the all the pre-cut cardboard pieces and easy to follow instructions ($48.00) to make this delightful sewing or jewellery box. I have used some of the vintage reproduction fabrics that we have in the shop to give a Victorian look, but you could of course use anything you like. The French General fabrics would also work well for this project.

https://www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/latest-products.html

Next week I am heading to Motueka teaching Japanese Boro and Sashiko stitching. Some time catching up with family will also be a bonus.

By the way...in case you would like to mark it on your calendar, our next Woolly Stitchers Day will be Saturday 27 February. See you then!

This week’s recipe is a good one for the lunch box or to have as a treat to have with your cuppa.

Peanut Butter Cookies (makes about 35)

• 100 g butter
• 100 g brown sugar
• 100 g caster sugar
• 1 egg
• 150 g crunchy peanut butter
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp vanilla essence
• 125 g plain flour

Preheat the oven to 180 C. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, peanut butter, salt and baking soda and mix well.

Add the vanilla and flour and mix well. Roll into balls, place on a baking tray and press them down with a fork. Bake for 10-12 mins until golden.

Happy stitching.

Rachel

Annie’s Country Quilt Store

www.anniesquilts.co.nz