NorthwindStar

Beautiful Merry Christmas Freebie Pattern

2009-12-13T11:37:00.000-06:00

I just love any Redwork embroidery and I've notice it really is making a big comeback! I can remember when I used to go to Woolworth's 5 and dime and buy packets of assorted redwork patterns for .50 cents!! Of course couldn't leave Woolworth's without going to the soda fountain in the back of the store, meet up with school chums and enjoy a cherry coke topped off with...a cherry of course! Yes, a real soda fountain with a real...live...to goodness Soda Jerk behind the counter actually MAKING (not just pouring) the cherry coke! Oh they were the best tasting I tell you...as well as some of the best memories..wayyyyyy back in the primitive early times! *s*

Whoops...am digressing...back to reality here...

I was surfing around trying to find some redwork embroidery Christmasy patterns......since Woolworth is no longer :( sadly. I can't stand to just sit doing nothing whilst watching all the wonderful Christmas movies on TV, so I enjoy doing some needlework.

I came across Gail Pan Designs ! What a lovely site indeed. I found the pattern above and just knew that is the one I wanted to make. Isn't is just beautiful? I just couldn't keep this secret to myself and after all, tis the season for sharing! If you enjoy redwork...wouldn't this make a splendid frame piece? Or how about a pillow or a simple wall hanging using a natural tree limb with wire as a hanger? You can download it here.

Please remember when you are creating a treasure made from a design/pattern that someone else created, to always follow their TOU's and to give them the credit for their talent and hard work.

Wishing you a day filled with soft smiles along your way ~ Namaste ~*NorthwindStar*

To All My Jewish Friends..Old and New.....

2009-12-12T12:23:00.002-06:00

No matter what faiths or beliefs we all have, I believe we must show honor and respect in all celebrations during this Holiday Season and throughout the year.... for what is truly important is wishing all Peace, Joy, Happiness, Goodwill, Understanding and Love to all who cross our paths on our life's journey. These are such precious gifts and are so easily given, by merely opening the door of benevolent goodwill in our hearts for all humanity.....*s*

Therefore, I would like to wish all my Jewish friends...old and new...a truly Happy Hanukkah!!

Peace to All who enter ~*NorthwindStar*~

Here's the proof!!

2009-12-08T12:48:00.003-06:00

My dear daughter, husband and beautiful grandbabies live in Houston, Texas and thought I'd share some of the photo's of this very rare event...as proof there was...snow in Houston...brief as it was!!

This is their backyard. Sure hope all the hard work in creating their fabulous landscaping and planting all their lush trees...citrus and banana trees..... survived!

My grandbabies Olivia and Luke beginning to build their snowmen...ok, so not exactly "babies"...but then I call my 37 yr old daughter my baby girl*s*

Beautiful granddaughter Olivia all bundled up for a cold winters day...ummm...mean hours, as apparently this winter phenom didn't last but a few hours.

Sure wish I could say that for us in Nebraska!!! We are having a blizzard at this very moment I am posting!! Yes, blizzard with hardly any visibility!!

How adorable is this??? Luke huffin' and puffin' rolling his snowball...soon to be his snowman masterpiece!!! Just look at his precious face...the determination in his grimace! Too cute!

TA DA....drumroll please!!!!! The grand masterpieces completed...in record time too by the way. Knowing the temperature wasn't going to remain conducive to any Frosty's longevity, time was of the essence!

And....here is the Frosty family!!! Olivia and Luke did such a fabulous job with their snowy creations! Sure brings warm heart smiles to this ole' grandma!!! They had such an enjoyable time and like everyday in their happy lives....once again created a wonderful memory! *s*

Can you believe this? In Houston? I lived there and believe me, this is a rarity! But, as cold as this thermometer reads....sadly....not cold enough for Frosty the Snowman and his family...but hopefully he'll surely come back again some other day....right? *wink*

Wishing all a most splendid day...hopefully as delightful as mine was in seeing my sweet and gorgeous grandbabies!

Freebies, Snow, A Dove, More Snow and a Froggie

2009-12-07T12:01:00.002-06:00

As if we didn't get enough snow yesterday and overnight...more to come tomorrow! Another 6 to 10". All I have to say is thank goodness for snow blowers, long johns and that I learned to adapt to the frigid snowy days when I lived in Canada for 5 yrs!! I said "adapt" not "like"!

Well, homemade beef vegetable soup is on, bread is rising and my prim creations are enjoying the warmth of the oven aging. So thought I'd take a moment to post a few things I'd like to share with you.

First I'd like to share ~ Something quick and easy. A stitchery Christmas Peace Dove. I stitched a few of these last year..... wee pillow tucks/ornaments with this sweet dove to have on hand for those last minute gifts we all seem to need during this time of year. You can reduce or enlarge this stitchery to fit any project you might want. I haven't gotten my share box back up on my blog, so just click the Dove to open in another window, then save to your computer. Oh...ignore those dots above the holly. I forgot to white out what I had begun drawing.

I had received something in my email that was an .rar file and wanted to open it. So had to find an extraction tool that would do this, as I didn't have WinRaR. Didn't need anything fancy and hopefully a free download! Well, I found one and thought I'd pass this along in the event you might be needing this extraction tool someday. Who would have thought a FROG would be so useful!

It is very user friendly and FREE. Just download the FROGGIE HERE
All you have to do after downloading and installing it...is merely drag and drop whatever .rar file you have into the froggie window and BINGO...extracted into your folder.

Enjoy creating the Christmas Dove and do have a warm cozy day...Namaste

Journey to the North Pole

2009-12-06T12:58:00.007-06:00

This time of year always seems like we are scrambling around trying to figure out what sweet delicious treats to make. Especially cookies! Well, I found the mother load of cookie recipes and as an added bonus, comes along with such a delightful selection of fun and entertaining activities for all the kidlets who are soon to be on holiday break!
What better place to find all these fun holiday treasures than at the..of course...The North Pole!! Best part is you don't need to leave your warm and cozy home! Although right now, it sure feels like the North Pole here...freezing and snowing of course!

For all the cookie recipes, just click here and for all other activities listed at the North Pole click here.

Oh goodness, you must also visit Creating Christmas. Heather has an adorable freebie called Build a Christmas tree for the kidlets to have fun with! Make sure you do some noseyin' around her blog, as she has some wonderful freebies for bigger kidlets too! Thank you Heather for being so generous in sharing all your fabulous hard work and talent with us!

Have fun and Enjoy!!

Bringing some cheer and gifts

2009-12-05T12:12:00.002-06:00

I've been as busy as all the Elf's at the North Pole of late...only without all the holiday magic they can summon when in need!! So wanted to stop in quickly, do some blog dusting and tell Charlotte thank you for keeping watch over my blog and has my permission to decorate her webs accordingly!

How about some holiday cheer and a few freebies? I so enjoy vintage Father Christmas images and postcards, thought I'd share a few I've gathered over the years. Save to your computer and print off on cardstock or print on fabric, decoupage and a whole host of other ways to use. Just enjoy!

I'd also like to mention, the new edition of Inspire Online Magazine is out! Ohhhhh you must check it out. Just scroll down a ways and click on the link...more enjoyment for you!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T08:47:00.000-06:00

Grateful hearts all gathered
In honor of this day
To pray for peace and caring
We join hands as we say

Thank you for the blessings
That we have all received
Our heads all bowed in silence
Our thoughts of love perceived

For those who are not with us
For those in life we share
We thank God for our bounty
For the love that's always there

Food to fill the table
Peace to fill the soul
Hearts that are so bountiful
With words that will console

These our special blessings
We offer on this day
Love and peace with kindness
Within our hearts we pray.

Francine ~© original 2002

Wishing you and your loved ones a magnificent Thanksgiving celebration!

~*NorthwindStar*~

Don't miss out on Countdown To Christmas Free Printables

2009-11-23T22:52:00.001-06:00

I just received my newsletter from Lisa of Ten Two Studios who also has Go Make Something and Lisa Vollrath website announcing The Original Printables Holiday Countdown!! I've been a long time admirer of Lisa's creations, as well as learning so much from her helpful tips, tricks and information.

Just had to share this with everyone as beginning December 1st through Christmas Day Lisa will be revealing a new sheet of printables FREE for your personal use!! How generous is that! In case you aren't familiar with Lisa's fabulous artistic talent...check out her sights! Such lovelies you shall see.

You aren't going to want to miss out on her printables, so go to The Original Printable Holiday Countdown site and read all about it so you won't miss one image!!

Thank you Lisa for your generosity in sharing your gifts with us!!....AND

Thank you Dame Penniwig for your generosity as well...for that lovely Compliments of the Season Graphic! Told ya I'd put it to good use *smile*

Candied Walnuts and Pecans Delicious Treats

2009-11-22T13:30:00.003-06:00

As few years ago I started making my own Candied/Caramelized Walnuts and Pecans. I had found a recipe in one of those old vintage cookbooks. The kind that ladies church groups put together for fund raisers. Just love them and always brings me chuckles...and fun memories..... since those cookbooks are all typed with the classic Royal Typewriter!! Big Ole heavy things...had to hand feed the paper in with a knob on the side... which took a few tries to get it to feed in straight I might add....keys that stuck, actual ink ribbons that were a bloody mess to change...and a return carriage that had to be slammed back...and it never failed that I always had a fingernail snap back in the process *ouch*!!! Yup, that is what I learned how to type on. Amazing I even reached 60 words per minute on them!

Anyway.....sorry for digressing back to my primitive thymes *wink*......back on subject!

The recipes in my vintage cookbooks have never failed me and always so very easy to make. My name is Alexandria...NOT Martha, know what I mean? Nothing fancy in them, but sure are delicious!

Well like I was saying, a few years ago I decided to make my own Candied/Caramelized Walnuts and Pecans after seeing the prices of those gems! I just couldn't justify the high cost of my delicious munchies...so...made them myself and never looked back.

Wanted to share this ever so easy recipe with you since the holidays are upon us (it is legal to make this year around though *s*). You can make these in large quantities and store them in air tight containers for a few weeks...I think LOL. Mine never lasted that long so can't say for sure! Nibble on them as is, use as toppings on cakes, pie crumbles, mixed in with a granola mix/bars...the uses are really endless. I always make pretty Gift Jars filled with a mix of candied walnuts and Pecans for gifts at Christmas. Trust me...they are well recieved!!

Now I might add...you can use any kind of nuts in this recipe and you can add any side goodies as well. Just make sure you adjust the sugar and water if you're adding more solids to make sure they all get coated well. I made cashews and added dried cranberries. To die for!!

Caramelized Walnuts or Pecans

Ingredients:

2 C walnuts or pecans
1 C sugar
1/2 C water
salt

Directions:
Preheat oven to 300F. Butter a large baking pan.
Combine nuts, sugar and water in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir until mixture crystallizes, about 15 minutes. Spread pecans on the prepared baking pan and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 15 minutes. Turn with an oiled metal spatula and bake an additional 15 minutes. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Candied Walnuts/Pecans Recipe

Ingredients:

2 c. sugar
1/2 c. water
1 teaspoon vanilla
4 c. walnut halves & pieces

Directions:
Bring sugar and water to a boil over high heat in large saucepan. Boil 1 min. stir in vanilla and walnuts or pecans or both; stir until coating sets. spread on cookie sheet and cool
Now if you want a bit of variation in taste, why not add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon nutmeg to the sugar and water mixture!!! Actually, you can add any flavorings. One year I added red hots to the mixture and stirred until melted... since I had a friend who LOVED Red Hots!

Have fun and use your imagination using this recipe. ENJOY!

Having To Start All Over Again...

2009-11-20T22:38:00.001-06:00

A couple weeks ago, I sadly had to make the decision to delete my blog. I felt I just didn't have enough hours in my day to devote the proper amount of time in maintaining it. I was doing good posting 2 to 3 times a week! This truly is the busiest time of the year for me and I needed to squeeze in my very short 24 hr day....some zzzzzzz's. Gave up on beauty sleep years and years ago...wasn't working all that well from the reflection in the mirror each morning...but I do need a few hours to keep the grumpies away. Nothing worse then an old primitive woman that growls, spits, spews or snarls at cute kittens.

Well, that was the main reason in deleting my blog, but there was also the issue of not being able to delete the pumpkin graphics at the end of my posts!! I couldn't for the life of me figure out how I put them there in the first place!! I even deleted the graphic from my photobucket...and they were STILL there...at the bottom of each post!!!! *grrrrr* Nothing worse then a pumpkin possessed blog!! I did everything imaginable to remove those blasted pumpkins. I mean, it looked great entering into Fall....Halloween and would even look fine going into Thanksgiving....but....how would I explain BIG FAT ORANGE PUMPKINS during the Christmas season...Valentines...Easter..need I go on? I would show you what they looked like, but after completely deleting everything on my blog and starting over to rid myself of them...I fear the pumpkin nightmare would return!!

Anyway, am starting all over again at the urging of a few friends. I am amazed my posts remain! How did that happen?...and my wonderful followers are still here *big ole smile*. But...everything else has gone poof...so...will have to decorate again.

Still am terribly busy, but I promise I will try to continue posting whenever I can between now and Christmas.... and hopefully something worthwhile. If you ever see a post with mumble jumble that looks like a binary code of sorts....it isn't a virus...it is just a crazed, sleep deprived soul...without a connection between my blond one cell brain and fingers on the keyboard!

Hopefully will have my blog looking spiffy in the days to come and will have found all the great links to my bloggie friends too.

Wishing everyone a fabulous weekend!!

Wishing You A Magickal Halloween

2009-10-31T13:18:00.001-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL

Having a hard time believing....

2009-10-30T12:19:00.000-05:00

.....that global warming is happening folks.

Woke up this morning to MORE snow and freezing temps! That's pretty much been the weather around here for the past 3 weeks! I'm not complaining as I enjoy snow, but would have liked for Autumn to stick around a wee bit longer. Well, at least it has helped me get motivated on working on my Christmas creations .... for listing in my Etsy Shop as well as starting my handmades for gift giving*s*.

I plan on having a totally handmade Christmas, complete with handmade gifts as well this year. Part of my plan of getting back to the simple life of long ago yesterdays. That was my 2009 New Years resolution and it has been a work in progress...but oh so much fun! Amazing what one can do if you put your heart and hands to it *s*

From now until mid December, I plan on sharing sites that might inspire you in giving from your heart and hands....... with wonderful ideas and sites who so generously share fabulous patterns.

Remember.....

A Gift From The Heart Is A Most Treasured Gift Of All

Here's a beautiful site I stumbled upon not to long ago. The name of it alone makes me *smile*...............It is Among The Gum Trees blog A group of sweet talented ladies put this blog together and it surely is one you will enjoy visiting. For nine weeks, they will be posting one of their fabulous patterns for FREE!!!! Talking about gifts...how wonderful is that! So make sure to visit Among the Gum Trees blog as they have just posted Freebie Pattern #4...and thank them for being so generous. Oh....btw...Pattern 1 through 3 are posted on the right sidebar!!

Am off to fetch my warm woolens and enjoy a bit of snow *wink*.........Do have a delightful Friday!

Recipe for Homemade Granola Bar Treats

2009-10-29T13:46:00.002-05:00

I am busying myself today with making all sorts of special goody bags for the wee goblins that will soon be visiting. Unlike in big cities, the only children that come by are the ones we know...family, friends, and the few that live across the corn fields *smirk*.

So, because we all know each other, each year I make a nice variety of yummy treats and can even personalize the bags with each childs name! How wonderful is that? Living in a rural area has a few drawbacks...but for the most part...it truly is wonderful.

I wanted to share a absolutely devine, stupendously delicious granola bar recipe that I have made for years....and not only to put in Hallowe'en goody bags either! *grin*. Oh sure I suppose I could go out and buy granola bars at the grocery...but I might as well buy a dozen candy bars and be done with it....since there is absolutely no difference in chomping down on a store bought granola bar and candy bar. Both loaded with sugar/high fructose and not telling what other mysterious items, not to mention they are about as tasty as cardboard!

This recipe can be made in a wide variety of ways simply by adding or changing the nuts or fruits. Mix and match...have fun with it...but I promise you...you will NEVAH go back to eating store bought granola bars!

Oh, I also want to mention, you can also layer all the dried ingredients in this recipe to use as a Gift in A Jar!!! Write the direction on a nice recipe card, punch a hole in the corner and tie it with raffia or piece of homespun around a vintage mason jar!! Make a few to keep on hand for gift giving when the need arises!!

This recipe is super quick and easy to make!!

Gourmet Granola Bar Recipe

This recipe makes approximately a dozen bars depending on what size you cut them

Ingredients:

2 cups old fashion oatmeal

1 cup nuts- could be almonds, peanuts, macadamia *yum*, walnuts, pecans...anything you enjoy

1 cup shredded coconut- if you don't like coconut, no problem, leave it out and replace with another ingredient with the same consistancy...

1/2 cup wheat germ

3 Tablespoons butter (unsalted)

2/3 cup honey

1/4 cup lightly packed, light brown sugar

1 1/2 Teaspoon real vanilla extract - or use another flavor if you wish

1/4 Teaspoon kosher salt -yessss regular salt will work also- I prefer using Sea Salt since it is much healthier

1/2 cup chopped pitted dates - you don't like dates, use raisins or another other dried fruit

1/2 cup chopped dried apricots - again if you don't like, use another dried fruit

1/2 cup dried cranberries - ditto above

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter an 8 x 12 inch baking dish and line it with wax paper and making sure you have enough wax paper to be able to fold over pan once completed..

Toss the oatmeal, almonds and coconut together on a sheet pan and toast about 10 minutes or so. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ

Lower heat in oven to 300 degrees

Place butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture. This is the "glue" to bind everything together

Add the dates, apricots, and cranberries and stir well.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Then take the overlapping wax paper and cover the top, pressing firmly with your hands to make sure your bars won't fall apart when finished. Once you have done that, you can tear off the excess wax paper.

Bake for 25-30 mins., until light golden brown.

Cool for at least 2-3 hours before cutting into squares. Wrap individually and enjoy!

Hallowe'en Treats for Our Non Human Loved Ones

2009-10-28T16:38:00.005-05:00

Everyone is busy getting their treats...and perhaps a few tricks along the way *smirk* for all the goblins, witch's, ghosts and monsters on All Hallow's Eve night that will visit. Probably carving out pumpkins in the next day or so too. What a fun time...but have you thought of including all your non human loved ones? *s*

Found another super Hallowe'en craft in BHG which I thought would be such fun. Create your furry family member their own Jack-O-Lantern in their image! Too cute!

Just click here to take you to the instructions and all the free pumpkin carving templates/stencils to download!

Here's a great recipe for making some yummy and healthy treats...not only for All Hallow's Eve, but for anytime. I've made this recipe a lot. It is easy and almost makes me want to eat these treats myself!

Did you know pumpkin isn't only healthy for us humans for your dogs too?

This following pumpkin dog treat is loaded with Beta carotene and anti-oxidants especially vitamins C and E. These vitamins help to lower cancer risk, cataracts and heart disease. Pumpkin is also being used in dog diets to help fat dogs lose weight....hmmm, wonder if it would help humans?? LOL And pumpkin provides extra roughage or bulk in a healthy dog diet . Pumpkin is even being prescribed for dogs who have delicate stomachs or intestinal problems.

***PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VET IF YOUR DOG HAS SPECIAL NEEDS OR HEALTH ISSUES TO MAKE SURE IT IS SAFE FOR THEM****

PUMPKIN WAFERS DOG TREAT RECIPE

Ingredients:

# One 15 oz. can mashed pure pumpkin (NOT the spiced pie filling)

# 3/4 cup cream of wheat (or rice cereal if wheat-sensitive) You can mix this dry--no need to cook it first

# 1/2 cup dry powdered milk

Directions: Preheat oven to 300 F.

Mix all ingredients together. Drop small spoonfuls (I use about half of a tablespoon) onto a lightly greased cookie sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

If you'd like to make bite sized cookies for small dogs, training rewards or just small treats, you can use a pastry bag and squeeze out rosettes about the size of a dime for tasty bite sized cookies!

Here's another Doggie Treat Recipe I've used. This one is for our older doggies who need softer foods due to their aging teeth.

Homemade Dog Treat Recipe

Soft Doggie Cookies

3 (2 1/2 oz. each) jars of baby food; either beef or chicken

1/4 cup Dry milk powder

1/4 cup Wheat germ or cream of wheat

Combine all ingredients in bowl and mix well. Roll into small balls and place on well-greased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork. Bake in preheated 350F oven for 15 minutes until brown. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate to keep fresh or freeze. I like to freeze mine, then I take out a few a day to thaw and be ready for treat time! *s*

Fun Hallowe'en Whimsy the Phee McFaddell Way

2009-10-27T00:20:00.002-05:00

Hallowe'en is only a few days away!! So why not enter the Whimsical Realm of Phee McFaddel l with your wee ones and enjoy some spooktacular fun. This webiste is loaded with all sorts of Hallowe'en adventures...from stories, to crafts, coloring pages, masks you can make, puppets and a wonderful array of other treats....didn't find any tricks, so tis safe to enter *s*.

Here's a few labels for potions you might have brewing for All Hallow's Eve. If there's a Hallowe'en party whether at school or home...you could transform those juice bottles or boxes into something fun....or how about using some labels on clear cello treat bags you might be making. Lots of fun uses...with a Hallowe'en imagination!

Labels from Phee McFaddall.......click to open full size, then right click and save to your computer. Don't forget to visit Phee McFaddall Craft Projects and HAVE FUN!!!!

How to Make Rustic Candle Holders

2009-10-25T13:32:00.001-05:00

I really love Plain and Simple primitives and even more so when I can make them for pennies! I saw these in BHG and just had to share on how to make them! They are so simple and quick to make, I made 6 in about 30 minutes!!

Here's what you'll need:

18 gauge wire ~ you can really add an extra primitive touch by using rusty wire

chunks of wood or logs about 3 inches thick. Wood chunks can be any shape or size.

drill with a small bit the size of your wire and an auger bit the size of your tapers

dripless tapers of your choice

strong adhesive such as E6000 can be found at Walmart or any hardware store

Drill an off center hole the size of your wire into your wood base. Then using your auger bit, drill out a hole in the center for your candle. Place a tiny itsy bitsy teeny weeny drop of your strong adhesive in the hole for the wire and insert your wire. Now, place your candle in the your wood base and wrap the wire around the candle. Finish by making a curlicue at the end of your wire. Now wasn't that just the easiest candle holder to make?

Now don't go throwing away the sawdust from drilling out your candle holes!!! Nope, nope nope ducky....I believe in recycling. Are you going to make a wonderful Christmas creation and want to add some 'snow' to it? Well....take some white acrylic paint and your sawdust and mix it together!!! If too thick, just add a wee bit of water. Mix it real good and you have snow!!!!! Save in a tight sealing container and use whenever you are ready! Apply it with your fingers or a paint brush! If you want your snow to glisten...all you have to do is add glitter to your sawdust/paint mixture or you can merely sprinkle the glitter on top when still wet.

Happy creating...the Plain and Simple way of days long ago...for your Primitive Homestead~

Harvest Blessings ~ *NorthwindStar*~

In Loving Memory..........

2009-10-24T14:14:00.001-05:00

As I stated earlier today in my post, I've been away for almost a month busy with family...with life..with work.....and sadly did not take the time to visit my blog friends until today.....

....and some very sad news I was to learn. Ever since I found out Debbie's (friend to so many of us in blogland)... sweetest and most beautiful daughter, Amy Dawn's courageous fight with cancer, I've had a burning candle on my blog which was so thoughtfully made by Penniwig...flickering as a symbol of Hope for Amy.

With a heavy and saddened heart...I "blew" out the candle and replaced it with a beautiful butterfly... as Amy took flight yesterday to her new heavenly home. I kindly ask you to take a moment to read Penni's beautiful tribute to Amy Dawn.

Please keep Debbie and her family in your thoughts and prayers, so God's loving and gentle arms wrap tightly around their hearts and spirit.... to give them the strength and courage during this heartbreaking journey.

God's Blessings To All ~~
Alexandria

Well I can certainly see...

2009-10-24T13:03:00.003-05:00

.....there's absolutely no need to do any Hallowe'en decorating on my blog from all the cobweb's and spiders that have taken up residency since I have been away for almost a month!!! ( scroll down to see a couple bribing goodies for you *wink*)Kind of matches what my house looks like! LOL It's that time of year, where blogging and apparently housework..... has to take a number on my To Do list, as I have been extremely busy filling orders, taking care of customers and trying to get my Christmas line going as well.

Oh did I mention we've also been having SNOW....?? Freezing weather?? Hail??? Freezing rain??? What happened to Autumn?? Who is the nitwit who is yammering about global warming happening??? Not happening here in the Plains!!!

Here's a wee sample of some of the few Christmas creations I have been busy creating and listed in my Etsy Shop so far.

These Santa's Elf shoes are from an Old Road Primitives pattern. I made this centerpiece for myself last year and was so pleased on how it turned out......., so thought I would make another to list this year as it was so easy to create!

I also need to catch up on some of the wonderful blogs I so enjoy visiting and see how everyone is doing. I did managed to toodle over to Kim's blog Old Road Primitives a couple nights ago to see what treasures she's been designing as I received her newsletter which of course caught my attention immediately...so couldn't resist... had to go take a peek at Kim's webiste Old Road Primitives ...and oh my...Kim has been one busy lady as well. Such adorable new Christmas patterns!! Sure was glad I took a minute and visited her site since a nice surprise awaited me...A PATTERN SALE!!! A Buy 2 get 1 Free...so if you are in need of some Kim's fabulous patterns, now is the time to take advantage in getting all you need!!!

There was also another fabulous surprise...A GIVE-A-WAY! For every pattern purchased during October, Kim will put your name in drawing. So hurry on over and ....... Lookie lookie what you could win.....

Now aren't these the most adorable and sweetest Christmas Mousie's you have ever seen???? I have brought life to many of Kim's patterns...but to actually have one of Kim's original creations would be totally awesome!!!!

For being so naughty in not keeping up like I really should or wanted with my blog...can I make up for it with some bribing freebies? *smirk* Just right click and save my friends...*s*

Wishing all who come and visit me...a truly delightful and happy Autumn weekend!!

*NorthwindStar*

Pumpkin Patch Delight !!!

2009-09-28T11:41:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful way to begin a beautiful Fall Monday...getting a notice that I've not only been chosen for an Etsy Treasury, but a fabulous PUMPKIN treasury..my favorites! If you are into pumpkins, are looking for pumpkins for displays or needing pumpkins for your fall shows, you have to check this out folks!

Cathy who has Primitives Goodes, an awesome Etsy Shop created this Pumpkin Treasury and I feel so honored to have my Pumpkin Harvest Gathering included....thank you so kindly Cathy for making my day! I might also suggest after visiting the Pumpkin Treasury and Primitive Goodes Etsy Shop, where you will find awesome patterns, designed by Cathy, as well as some other primitive handmades...you might want to stroll on over to Cathy's blog and add even more enjoyment to your Monday. Make sure and check out Cathy's great tutorials for your primitive homestead, the fabulous Blog Events Dex where you'll find blogland best events, giveaways and a world of information.

Beautiful Pumpkin graphic designed by our sweet Dame Penniwig!

Wishing all you fabulous Pumpkins in blogland a lovely Autumn Monday!! ~*NorthwindStar*~

Welcome to a new Etsy Shop and a MUST SEE Witch !!!!!

2009-09-25T22:36:00.001-05:00

I would like to do a proper introduction of Andrea of Sunflower Haven, who was the winner of my Fall Equinox Give-a-Way earlier this week. She has been one busy lady...like most of us have been during this time of year..... and I just received her permission to post a wee bit about her, along with a couple pictures of her creations.

Andrea has been sewing since she was knee high to a grasshopper and gives all the credit to her Grandma, for teaching her the techniques of sewing and love of using your imagination in creating. As you will see with a couple of the pictures below, Andrea takes great care in attention to detail which truly does shine through every piece!

Since Halloween isn't that far way, I wanted to show off one of Andrea's dollies she has listed on Etsy that I just fell in love with. She is a Folk Art Witch Doll with unbelievable detail and hand drawn eyes with colored pencils which has been blended and shaded!! *Drats* just had a light bulb moment....., perhaps I should have bribed her with the Scarecrow 'n Punkins to teach me how to do those fabulous eyes, instead of just giving them away to her LOL

This fabulous witch has 100% wool hair that Andrea has painstakingly needle felted. Trust me, I tried that once and had more poked holes in my fingers then in the dolls head!! I really admire anyone who needle felts and does such a wonderful job as Andrea does.

Here's another one of her creations, which is just simply adorable. This whimsical dollie is a Raggedy Witch, also listed on Etsy. Too cute...and once more *ouch* *ouch* just thinking of this...... needle felted 100% wool hair in perfect Halloween orange.

Andrea of Sunflower Haven is brand spanking new to Etsy and although she is still in the process of listing her fabulous creations, please visit Sunflower Haven and welcome Andrea to the wonderful world of selling handmades on Etsy. I've already placed my welcome "heart" stamp on her shop...*wink*.

Wishing you mega success Andrea....as no doubt your wonderful handmades will bring many heart smiles in their new homes *s*

~*Northwindstar*~

Celebrating First Day of Fall and my Give-a-way WINNER!!!

2009-09-22T12:19:00.001-05:00

Autumn has officially arrived and time to celebrate all its beauty and marvelous bounty it shares with us! I couldn't believe it when I awoke this morning and peered out the window!! It was as though, Mother Earth waved her magical paint brush during the twilight hours...and all the trees had been painted in beautiful hues of golden yellows, muted orange and reds with chestnut accents!

Also a time to celebrate the winner of my Fall Equinox Give-A-Way of Scrows 'n Punkins!! I've been anxiously awaiting for this. Ta Da....and the winner is Andrea of Sunflower Haven. So Andrea, please email me with your email and snail mail address.

I want to thank everyone for your interest in my Give-A-Way and commenting on my blog about your favorite Fall decorations. I truly enjoyed reading all your fabulous comments.

Wishing all a most delightful first day of Fall!

~*NorthwindStar*~

Beautiful Fall day and Wonderful surprises

2009-09-20T11:06:00.004-05:00

It is an absolutely gorgeous crisp, breezy Fall morn here in the plains!! :) Just 2 more days until it is official...FALL...and announcing the winner of my Scrows 'n Punkins Give-a-way. Have my bloggie followers left me a comment yet on their favorite fall decoration? I still have plenty of room in my oh so cute pumpkin bowl to add lots more names, as well as duplicates, since every comment counts!

Have some really heart warming surprises to share this morning!

The first surprise, was when I sat down at my computer and checking on my Etsy Shop. Well, lo and behold, I find out my sweet Witchy Mousie toting her punkin wagon had been chosen in Renee's Witches, Witches, Everywhere Witches Etsy treasury. You must really go peek at this treasury, as Renee picked some fabulous spellbounding Witchy Ladies!

Thank you so much Renee, for taking the time to create your wonderful treasury and for including my Mousie creation. I truly appreciate it and I'm honored.
While you're at it, check out Renee's awesome Etsy Shop AmericanGirl51. Here is just one sample of her superb talent! Now how fantastic is this child's witch hat??? I just love it!

And here's another one of Renee's Witch Hats which would even make the olde' wicked witch of the West elegant!

Now, for surprise no. 2!! Oh I just love surprises, I do :)

A couple days ago, I posted a free punkin patch stitchery pattern for those patient enough..and talented I might add...to enjoy hand stitching. Well, last night while strolling through bloggie land, I happen to visit Carmen of Waxed Out Creative Life and see something familiar!! This sweet lady had painstakingly and wonderfully I might add, completed the punkin patch stitchery!! Sure brought a nice warm smile to me and I'm always so glad to see artisans enjoying the goodies I share! You really need to go visit Carmen's wonderful fun blog to see all her wonderful creations.

All these exciting surprises sure have made my day full of heart smiles. I thank you so much and I wish you all many heart smiles along your way today as well *smile*

~*NorthwindStar*~

Need Hang Tags and printables, here you go !

2009-09-18T17:03:00.000-05:00

We all can use hang tags I'm sure, so wanted to pass along some very nice and useful free hang tags and printables I found on some wonderful sites. It is so thoughtful and generous for the designers to share with us.

Primmart

Country Printables

Huckleberry-arts

Country Cloud 9

Graphic Fairy

Pumpkin Roll with Toffee filling and Caramel Sauce Recipe

2009-09-17T01:29:00.001-05:00

5 Days and counting until Fall...and...the drawing for my Fall Equinox Give-a-way! Thank you so much my blog friends who commented so far! Really am enjoying reading what your favorite Fall decorations are.

I thought for the count down day no. 5, I'd post a fabulous Pumpkin Roll with Caramel Sauce Recipe. I know, most of you have probably made this using the recipe on the Libby's pumpkin pie can, but you really need to try this recipe...courtesy of Bon Appetite Holiday Cookbook.

This recipe "looks" complicated, but it truly isn't. I can whip one of these pumpkin rolls together in less then 35 minutes (not counting baking and cooling time)....and it sure is worth it!! Make several at a time, as they freeze fabulously! Wonderful to take to the office for all the holiday 'food feasts' that we have and enjoy!

Pumpkin Cake Roll with Toffee Filling and Caramel Sauce

For the Cake Roll

Nonstick vegetable oil spray

3/4 -cup cake flour

1 -1/2 -teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 -1/4 -teaspoons ground ginger

3/4- teaspoon ground allspice

6- large eggs, separated

1/3 -cup sugar

1/3 -cup (packed) golden brown sugar

2/3 -cup canned solid pack pumpkin

1/8 - teaspoon salt

Powdered sugar

For the Filling

2 -tablespoons dark rum (I would assume, you can use rum flavoring if you prefer)

1 - teaspoon unflavored gelatin

1 -cup chilled whipping cream

3 - tablespoons powdered sugar

10- tablespoons plus 1/2 cup English toffee pieces (or chopped English toffee candy; about 7 ounces) Additional powdered sugar

1 -1/2 cups-purchased caramel sauce, warmed

For Cake:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray 15x10x1-inch baking sheet with vegetable oil spray. Sift flour, cinnamon, ginger and allspice into small bowl. Using electric mixer, beat egg yolks, 1/3 cup sugar and 1/3 cup brown sugar in large bowl until very thick, about 3 minutes. On low speed, beat in pumpkin, then dry ingredients. Using clean dry beaters, beat egg whites and salt in another large bowl until stiff but not dry. Fold egg whites into batter in 3 additions. Transfer to prepared pan. Bake cake until tester is inserted comes out clean, about 15 minutes.

Place smooth (not terry cloth) kitchen towel on work surface; dust generously with powdered sugar. Cut around pan sides to loosen cake. Turn cake out onto kitchen towel. Fold towel over 1 long side of cake. Starting at 1 long side, roll up cake in towel. Arrange cake seam side down and cool completely, about 1 hour.

To make Filling:

Pour 2 tablespoons rum into heavy small saucepan; sprinkle gelatin over. Let stand until gelatin softens, about 10 minutes. Stir over low heat just until gelatin dissolves. Beat chilled whipping cream and 3 tablespoons powdered sugar in large bowl until firm peaks form. Beat in gelatin mixture. Fold in 6 tablespoons English toffee pieces. Unroll cake; sprinkle with 4 tablespoons English toffee pieces. Spread filling over. Starting at 1 long side and using kitchen towel as aid, roll up cake to enclose filling. Place cake seam side down on platter. Cover with foil and refrigerate if you are not going to use immediately. When ready to serve: Trim ends of cake on slight diagonal. Dust cake with powdered sugar. Spoon some of warm sauce over top of cake. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup toffee. To serve, cut cake crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices. Pass remaining sauce.

ENJOY! ~ *NorthwindStar*~

Sharing Pumpkin Tidbits and a Free Stitchery

2009-09-16T00:40:00.005-05:00

Probably completely useless information and facts about pumpkins you will ever want to know....but, interesting, even for a brief moment.

~Did you know, they are a member of the cucumber and squash family?

~Did you now pumpkins can grow in six of the seven continents, with Antarctica being the only place that isn't conducive for growing? Now why doesn't that surprise me!

~Did you know the self proclaimed pumpkin capital is Morton, Illinois. Wonder if it has anything to do with the Libby corporation being located there?

~Did you know we can thank the Irish for starting the pumpkin carving traditions? Sure enough. The Irish used to carve turnips, but when they arrived to America, they found pumpkins so plentiful, they began using them instead...and so the story goes...

~Did you know the pumpkin flowers are edible? Me either and I'll just take their word for it.

~Did you know, in the Colonial times, the pumpkins were used for the pie crust instead of the filling? Hmm, wonder what they used for the filling...pie dough?

~Did you know pumpkins were first thought to be able to cure snake bites and remove freckles?

~Did you know the largest pumpkin grown weighed in at 1,140 lbs? I wonder if that is the pumpkin used in making the largest pumpkin pie, which was 5 ft in diameter and a whopping 80 lbs!! No mention on how much Cool Whip was used.

~Did you know pumpkins are 90% water, are loaded in potassium and vitamin A? So, on that note, I do believe that is our green light to be able to eat as much pumpkin pie as we want. I mean, they say drinking lots of water is good for you, potassium and Vitamin A is a necessity...so there you go..totally healthy eating in my book.

Well, if you made it down this far, you deserve a prize. So, here's...what else...a pumpkin stitchery for you. Click on the pattern to enlarge in another window, then right click to save to your computer.

Please don't forget, I have a Fall Equinox Give-A-Way going on right now for all my bloggie followers (oldies and newbie's). Just click on the Scrows 'n Pumpkin picture on the left sidebar for the information.

Happy Stitching and Happy Wednesday! ~*NorthwindStar*~