Hi there. This last week I have had some computer issues for which I apologise. It makes you realise how much we take for granted the ability to send an email and gain access to the world through our fingertips!

It has been a busy week with Bernina’s coming and going with happy owners picking up their ex-symposium models. There are still 570QE and 350PE models at hugely discounted prices, so if you need an early Christmas present now is the time to speak up!

This week I thought I would show you my latest quilt which is called “Harrington” designed by Leonie Bateman featuring wool applique for the centre medallion and stars. (Beautifully quilted by Ali B). Patterns are available for $29.00 each, and I also have a limited number of kits available in exactly these colours which are $299.00

If you saw us at Symposium you may I have noticed that I had a really good special on these very handy Mini Steam Irons. We completely sold out of these, but I am very pleased to say that our supplier has come to the party for us and we should receive another shipment any day at this great price. Usually the irons are $74.00, we are able to offer them to you at $59.00 until stock lasts. Pre-order now!! (Did I mention that Christmas is coming, and there is nothing wrong with putting things in your own stocking!!)

These irons can be used dry or steam have NZ/Australian plug and power settings and are fantastic is you are doing foundation piecing or anything that needs multiple trips to the iron. (There is only so much exercise a person needs when you are sewing, and need not involve getting up and down to the ironing board!)

If you are out and about in Ashburton at the weekend we will be open every day including Labour Day Monday and it would be lovely to see you.

If you fancy a night out on Saturday the Christchurch Pops Choir will be performing at the Ashburton Event Centre along with the Ashburton Phoenix Chorus.

I love dumplings and this week’s recipe is a quick and easy – you can tweak the ingredients to create your own flavours or even make a big batch and freeze half before you steam them.

Pork and Spinach Steamed Dumplings

• 3 cups baby spinach (or silverbeet) leaves
• 175 g lean pork mince
• 70 g snow peas, shredded
• ½ c baby corn, diced
• 2 tsp finely grated ginger
• 1 clove crushed garlic
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon of honey
• 24 wanton wrappers

Wilt the spinach in hot water, cool and then squeeze out the excess moisture. Place the ingredients for the filling in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.

Layout your wonton wrappers on a clean surface and place two tsp of the mince mixture in the centre of each one. Using a pastry brush dampen the edges of the wrapper with water and fold them in half to enclose the filling.

Place the dumplings in a steamer lined with baking paper and cook for 6-7 minutes. Serve with extra soy and your choice of dipping sauces with some stir fried vegetables on the side. Delicious!