Leaf Collection

We were finally able to get to filling up the leaf bin this past weekend. I wanted to share this image with you because it helps to illustrate how truly simple the set up is.

Pumpkin Puree

I was recently looking for an easy way to do pumpkin puree and found this insanely easy technique. All you need to do is use a sharp knife to poke four holes in a whole pumpkin. Put it in an oven proof baking dish with a quarter inch of water, slide into the oven at 350 for about an hour depending on the size of the pumpkin.


Once you can easily stick a fork in it and turn, take it out and let it cool for a bit. Cut the top off, scrap out the seeds and then scrape the flesh from the skin. It should be really easy and almost creamy.

You can puree it before you bag it or puree it later. I went straight to the freezer bag. After cooling and labeling, I put it in the freezer. Can you say pumpkin pie?

For the Birds

Today we harvested sunflower seed heads. I plan to store them for winter and bring them out for the birds when food sources are low. It takes little more than cutting them off and carrying them to the garage. They are sure to bring pleasure this winter not only to the birds but for bird watchers as well!

Shower Gifts

I love to make handmade gifts. Even if the person receiving it doesn't realize it, I have more satisfaction in giving it. I am going to call this the "Shower Gift Package". Two changing pads, two pacifier/toy clips, one quilt and two bibs all for welcoming that special little one. I was lucky to find this fabulous fabric as a discount package at a local quilt shop. I actually had my heart set on some splendid organic cotton until I realized I couldn't afford to make what I wanted at $16/yard. That was quite frankly, ridiculous. I made all of these items excluding the bibs for a grand total of $15 in fabric. Add notions and we are probably at about $17. Maybe this will be the making of my first tutorial!

Leaf Mulch

Every fall I try to get as many leaves as I can from the yard, the neighbors and anyone else who is willing to provide them. After cleaning the garden, I like to spread a nice thick layer over the soil and till them in, apply some water and let winter do her work of breaking them down and adding vital soil nutrients. It is almost too easy. The extras are then dumped into a wire "bin" for spring use as compost and mulch.

The ones at the bottom of the pile will break down while the ones on top are good for further tilling in the spring or to mulch around the plants. Collecting leaves is truly a task where you can get something for nothing. I have been known to rake and bag the public right of way just to get some of this fabulous stuff! I think you will find that most of your friends are willing to drop them off to avoid the dump. A few words to the wise: avoid pine needles, they can make the soil acidic over time. Cottonwood leaves are not the best. Their waxy leaves take longer to break down. A nice mix is good.

On the Wall

One of the coolest things I have done most recently for my craft room is to hang a large piece on flannel on the wall for a design board. Quilt blocks or color swatches stick to it like magic. If you have a small crafting space this is a great trick making it so you can lay something out vertically on the wall and still have room for cutting on the table and walking on the floor! I tacked this piece to the wall but I could see it on a curtain rod as well allowing you to tuck it back if needed. You can see about 3 different projects on the wall as well as something in the bottom left corner that my 3 year is working on! I used about 4 yards of flannel sewn together on the long edge for a work space that is about 6'x6'.

Happy Jack

Sometimes your friends egg you on and make you do things you shouldn't be doing. Things like start another project before you finish the 12 that are already in the hopper! Say hello to Happy Jack; forever to make appearances at Halloween from now until the end of time! The original is from Sandy Gervais of Pieces From my Heart. This is my own extrapolated rendition. Tis the season when blustery days make gardening is unpleasant and the sewing machine is oh so inviting! Thanks for sharing my friends, now will you please let me get on with the baby quilt I need for that upcoming shower!