A Trip Back In Time

I finally found time to play with my Singer 66/16 that Don bought me at the auction in Beckley a couple of weeks before Christmas. It sewed like a dream. Smooth even stitches without a single skipped stitch. All functions (though limited) worked to perfection. Don and I took it all apart, cleaned every crack inside and out (although it was already clean) and oiled the machine according to the Singer Book. After all that it stitched even better. So quite, very quite compared to my Bernina 200/730. I sewed on a machine like this when I was a child. Then my mom and dad bought me the Singer Golden Touch and Sew when I was in 8th grade, taking Home Economics. It's amazing how all the procedures just came to mind. I knew how to thread the machine, wind the bobbin, thread the bobbin, take apart and clean the hook system, and even use the knee control. I did not realize how much I missed a knee control. It really is easier on my back and having the machine in a cabinet at the proper height undoubtedly helped also.

The 66/16 only straight stitches but the quality is remarkable for a machine of this age. I will do all my quilt piecing on this machine from this point forward.

I started piecing the charm squares for my Charm Party Tote with the Singer 66/16. I need to pick up some fusible Pellon fleece tomorrow so I can finish the tote.

Cuisinart Pressure Cooker

I've been searching for Pressure Cooker recipes during my lunch break today. My mom and dad bought me the Cuisinart Electric Pressure Cooker for Christmas. While I really enjoy my crockpot and the recipes from The Crockpot Lady, my life style leans toward the pressure cooker. I have a left over ham bone for beans but I'd really like to try something more adventurous.

I found this Mexican Meat Mix recipe. It can be used for Flautes, Taco Pizza, and Stuffed Baked Potatoes. I have all the ingredients on hand. I'll make the Taco Pizza with the Artisan Bread Crust and then freeze the left overs for Flautes or Stuffed Potatoes another night after. This can also be used on buns for Mexican Sandwiches. I love any one dish meal. Maybe I'll play with my new ( Vintage) Singer 66 this evening since dinner will be quick and easy.

Busy

My family left today and the house feels so empty with just Don and I. I cleaned up the left over remnants from Christmas, washed the towels, sheets, and clothes, and cleaned out the refrigerator. Then I took a short nap while Don went to Mt Nebo to check on our house.
I've been so busy with Christmas preparations that I've neglected my blogging for the past few weeks. Most things happening around here were family events except a couple of weeks ago Don went to an auction in Beckley and came home with a couple of vintage items.
This 16/66 Singer with a cabinet is in excellent condition. Don paid $40.00 at the auction. I've not had time to play with the machine yet. Now, that the holidays are over maybe I'll have time. The machine came with the ruffler, buttonhole attachment, seam guide, straight stitch foot, binding attachment, zipper foot, overlock foot, hem stitch foot, gathering foot, edge stitching foot, the darning or embroidery foot, and bobbin winder.
He also managed to win a bid on a 1999 Cadillac, like we really need another car. Don is so proud of his Cadillac. When I get a chance I'll take and post a few pictures of his treasure. Right now the car is stored in his shop about 3 miles from the house. The next time he brings it to the house I'll snap a few shots.