It's a New Year with lots of new ideas so today I am happy to present our new Designer Spotlight series, where we shine a light on the incredible designers who inspire our stitching hearts! Each week, we’ll introduce you to a designer whose work deserves a closer look and offer you an exclusive 20% off their patterns.
Designer Spotlight: My Big Toe Designs
To kick off the series, we’re featuring My Big Toe Designs by Deborah Booth. Debbie’s beautiful patterns, often inspired by Scripture, hold a special place in my heart. During a season of my life when I was working full-time in ministry and raising a family, time for hobbies was limited. Yet, every visit to my local needlework shop—a charming log cabin filled with stitching treasures—seemed to end with a My Big Toe Designs pattern (or two) in hand. Her designs spoke to my soul, turning the little time I had for stitching into a meaningful, peaceful outlet. What a pleasant surprise to find out after I started my own stitchy business that Debbie is just as lovely a person in real life as her gorgeous designs.
As part of this week’s Designer Spotlight celebration, enjoy 20% off all My Big Toe Designs patterns! Here are just a few of the newest treasures you’ll find in the collection:
These heartfelt designs are perfect for creating projects that inspire, uplift, and bring joy to those who see them. Be sure to check out the full collection on our website.
A Winter Storm and Comforting Potato Soup Here in Southwest Missouri, we’re settling in for the first winter storm of the year. The temperatures have dropped from a high of 38 degrees with rain this morning to 27 degrees, light snow, and high winds by mid-afternoon. With ice and snow in the forecast, we’ve stacked the firewood and plan to stay tucked inside until the world thaws out.
What better way to embrace the cozy winter vibes than with a hearty bowl of potato soup? This recipe is a family favorite, rich with flavor and thickened with a creamy roux. It’s not the watery kind of soup but the stick-to-your-ribs kind that warms you from the inside out. Here’s the recipe:
Hearty Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
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6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 stalks celery, diced
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4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1/4 cup butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Bacon bits and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
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In a large pot, combine potatoes, onion, celery, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
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Add the roux to the pot of potatoes, stirring well. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
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Stir in shredded cheese, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot, topped with bacon bits and green onions.
I hope this soup brings some warmth to your winter days. If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think!
Interactive Question How are you staying cozy this week? Are you stitching, cooking, or maybe curling up with a good book? Share your plans with us in the comments—we’d love to start a conversation and hear how you’re kicking off the New Year.
Thank you for joining us for our first Designer Spotlight! Be sure to check back each week as we celebrate another talented designer. Until then, happy stitching and stay warm!
Blessings,
Shelly