Four couples who served a law firm in London 25 years ago reunited this weekend. Each couple was charged to contribute to the meal overlooking the Boston Common and the lights of the city under snow. The hostess made artistic and delicious scallop and salmon terrines. The host added superb Moroccan Rock Cornish game hens and risotto. Another brought a beautiful large cheese collection from
Wasik's in Wellesley including one with truffles. There were the abundant grilled vegetables, a salad before dessert, and vanilla poached pears...not to speak of paired wines and a unique kir to greet us.
I always like a bit of surprise (not needed with this crowd) but wanted to take a little something besides my hostess gift (Poire William) and poached pears. So, on a Friday afternoon I stitched up these campy vintage mug rugs. I had the novelty print on hand, found some black fleece for batting, and put cherry red/black print on the back. First, I cut solid black fabric, fleece and backing to 5" x 8", then stitched around all sides, and finally cut the stitched sides with a pinking rotary cutter. I cut out the drawings and poems with pinking shears from the novelty fabric and stitched them onto the black top with invisible thread, quilting where needed. I wanted more color and added a red bow, held in place with a few machine stitches. I didn't need to go to Ben Franklin for some white "lace" or envelopes (I could have folded red construction paper) or glitter heart stickers, but I did!
I realized I was having a blast making Valentines Friday afternoon just as I did on the rare rainy afternoons in Amarillo as a child. Only this time, I was using fabric instead of doilies and hearts. Click to enlarge photos.
