Let The Kitchen Dance Begin

We're expecting more Oregon rain and bluster today so we're nestled in.  Good baking weather though, and I've got a nice big apple pie here, made by our friend John, who makes the most amazing pies (he grows his own apples too) and then raffles them off at his own annual MS fund raiser.  His pies are so-o-o good that getting one is like winning the lottery.  At least around here.  And I kid you not, this one weighs just over five pounds; absolutely no skimping here.  And I wish I knew the secret of his crust, it just melts in your mouth.  John is really one of the most generous and kind souls I'm happy to know, and I can't thank him enough for doing all that he does to make the world a better place.

Another generous soul I would like to thank is Susan Branch, for her never-ending source of inspiration and total devotion to all things good.  I finally got my hands on some of her wonderful fabric from the "Martha's Vineyard Watercolor Collection" and made a little applique patch for the apron I made a few weeks ago (using her free download here) from the small patches print.  So cute!  In case you can't read it, it says, "Let The Kitchen Dance Begin", hence the title post.  With fall here, and with it the wet weather, it just seemed appropriate somehow.  There are all kinds of sweet little pictures on this fabric print that can be cut out and used in this way.  I bought big patches too and plan to sew them onto some of the things I make, and use them like quilt labels. 

I'm telling you, the days are just flying by.  In the best way of coarse, as we busy ourselves making things for you.  Thanks again for supporting our efforts in all that we do.  Being able to stay home and make a living this way is such a privilege and a blessing in so many ways.  And we are forever grateful for the fun and friendship that happens along the way too.  xoxox

   

Grace is excitedly filling the dollhouse bakery orders that keep coming in.  I think just about everything is sold out.  Might be a few crumbs left.  If you hurry....  Her lollipop tree was a smash hit.  She wasn't sure if anyone would like them (can you imagine?) so she only made one.  She honestly still can't believe that so many lovely people want to buy her tiny creations.   As her mother, it's heart-warming that you do.  In fact, the whole etsy experience has been empowering for her I think, and has helped her realize that her work has value.  It's been a family affair around here though with all of us pitching in to help her this week.  We hope to have it all shipped before Halloween, which doesn't give us much time, and I've been skidding around in my slippers from one corner of the house to the other.  Not all that different from any other day actually, just skidding off in different locations.  And with that, it's time to skidaddle. . . and eat some pie!

Comments

[Miss Pearl]

Thank You! Vicki and Grace for all that you guys do! I've been lurking for awhile but had to pipe up and tell you how wonderful this blog is and how it's the first one I check in the morning because it always, always has something nice to say and something inspiring to see. My world is a little better and brighter because of it and I really wanted to tell you that.

[Diane B.]

Ditto that!

[Sharon M.]

I have to comment on Grace's work. Grace you are amazing! I am 53 years old, used to have quite a collection of miniatures myself, and I still love to look at the tiny creations whenever I have a chance. I have seen lots of beautiful, tiny things over the years. Your work is beautiful and excellently done! Keep up the great work--you are a gifted young lady!!

[mathea]

I have some of that fabric too, but amazingly I hadn't recognized it as Susan Branch's work until now! I love the one with the broom and the caption "Housework when done correctly, may kill you".
I'm not surprised that Grace's lollipop tree was a hit - like all her creations it was lovely!

[Angela]

Oh what fun! Love the addition to the apron and your daughter's dollhouse treats look good enough to much! Hmmn...I really can't wait until my daughter is old enough so I can give her the dollhouse that is waiting for her! (and so we can decorate!)

[Visty]

We recently moved to western Oregon from the Seattle area (and I homeschool ,y 8 and 10 year olds), and I am having that same urge to bake! We're running out to get the fixings for apple crisp.
I love that your daughter makes things to sell. If everyone's work could be that fulfilling!

[Karen]

Your blog is totally inspiring. I love doll houses and this doll house bakery is wonderful...I just peeked at your Etsy shop. I discovered Susan Branch's Christmas Cookbook while living in Hong Kong. I was sooooo homesick for Western life that I cherished this cookbook so much. I love being back in the States, especially in the Autumn. So glad I found your blog. Karen

[tinker]

I had to look at those pics twice - before I realized I was looking at the little house, lol.

I'm glad Grace's little busines is booming - her miniatures are just fantastic.

I love Susan Branch's work, too. With cooler weather, this is the perfect time to 'Let the Kitchen Dance Begin.'

A 5 lb pie - really? That's a whole lotta pie!

[judy]

I've been feeling a bit blue today, and just need to say that your blog is a cheerful start to putting an end to all thoughts dreary.

Thank you.

[tammyCA]

Those miniatures are so adorable...Grace is very talented. I have made different miniatures over the years, too. Can't quite figure out what material she uses, but I bet it is her secret. :)