Hi there. How wonderful it is to see some sunshine...the power of a bit of vitamin D should not be underestimated! However, best we make the most of it, as the forecasters are telling us the coldest weather is yet to come. Never fear, the stitching (and the heater) are near!

This week we have been busy cutting fat quarters and 1/8th of some absolutely gorgeous Japanese woven fabrics. These are some of the nicest ones I have seen and a good price at $32.00 pm. Perhaps it is time to drag out all those Yoko Saito books and patterns that you have hiding at the back of the stash and be creative.

Another designer who is really attracting attention lately is Edyta Sitar from Laundry Basket Quilts, we have a number of her patterns and books in store, along with this stunning range of fabrics in creams, reds and blues with a splash of mustard called Sweet Blend.

I have put together this mini quilt as a kit using this simple pattern called Charm Pack Stones which measures 36” x 38 1/2” But you could easily purchase some extra fabric to go with it to make a larger quilt if you wish. The kit is $69.00 and includes the pattern and charm squares and fabric for the sashing border and binding. A good project for beginner quilters of if you need to make a small quilt in a hurry for someone special.

Before I forget, last month’s winner of the $50.00 voucher from Annie’s was Norma Grant from Temuka.

This week’s recipe is a good “whip up in a hurry lunch dish” which makes great use of left overs.

Sausage and Cheese Bake

• 4 heaped cups of cubed day old bread
• 4 eggs
• 1 ½ c milk
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 2 cups grated cheese
• 2 cooked sausages
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 180C. Place the cubed bread on a tray and lighty toast in the oven.

Beat the eggs lightly with milk, paprika, mustard, salt and pepper. Add in ¾ of the cheese and the sausages and toasted bread.

Pour into a greased ovenproof dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 35-40 mins until golden and crispy.

Happy Stitching

Rachel