I marvel at people’s creativity. As we have put together the premier issue of Classic Sewing, Kathy McMakin and I have had the opportunity to see gorgeous creations made. Tiny stitches and lovely fabrics fill our offices. Every time one of our designers sends in a new project, we stand in awe. I have shared the story of Allison Banks …
Cookouts and Family Fun on Labor Day Weekend
Labor Day is always fun around our house! We enjoy the last summer holiday—or is it the first autumn holiday? Really it is about celebrating family, friends, and our wonderful country. We live in a wonderful country—flaws and all—and I love America. Labor Day is a family time for us. We put Neal at the grill and turn him loose! …
College Football Season Means It’s Time for Football Food
In the South, football season marks the beginning of a new year. Our steps are ordered by the first kickoff of our favorite college team. We are a house divided. I am an Alabama fan, and Neal is for Auburn. Except for one tiny day a year, we enjoy watching as many games as we can on Saturdays! The other …
Touring England: An Unexpected Treasure in Liverpool
Several years ago, Neal and I traveled to England with the greatest anticipation of beautiful landmarks and gorgeous sights. Downton Abbey was in its second season, and I, like the rest of the world, was enamored with England. The glory of Buckingham Palace was completely overwhelming, and the sites of the typical tourist destinations just delighted us. We traveled with …
Custom Needlepoint Creations from Asher Riley
If you know me at all, then you’re well aware of my entrepreneurial spirit and the special connection I feel to others who have been bitten by the business-building bug. There is something so rewarding about creating a business—whether on your own, with a spouse, or with a wonderful team—and then watching it grow into something that others can love …
New Recipes for Fall Baking with Taste of the South
When the first wave of cool winds blows, I am ready to start my fall baking. I must have my staples on hand: cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla, bags of nuts, and delicious fall fruits for additional opportunities to be creative. My latest concoction was a fruit cobbler that I literally threw together to use fruit that was ripening too …
Learning to Turn the Page
There comes a day when you realize turning the page is the best feeling in the world, because you realize there is so much more to the book than the page you were stuck on. — Zayn Malik I read this most interesting statement the other day written by Zayn Malik. It really struck a nerve with me. I flashed …
Hospitality Trays: Creatively Showing Guests You Care
I love hospitality trays, especially when I am the guest! Does that sound selfish? I hope not because I love seeing people use their creativity to prepare for guests. I have been in homes of friends where a tray is always ready to go and so creative. My friend Dell has a tray on every bed in her home. She …
New Tea & Savories book from TeaTime
A preview of our newest book Tea & Savories from TeaTime editor Lorna Reeves Dainty tea sandwiches filled with thinly sliced cucumber, creamy chicken salad, or flavorful smoked salmon are the foods afternoon-tea aficionados have come to expect on the savories level of a traditional three-tiered stand. Often served in the United States as the second course after warm scones …
Introducing Classic Sewing Magazine
I am always being asked, “What’s new at Hoffman Media?” There is always something going on here and always something new, particularly with special issues of your favorite magazines. But today we are launching something truly new: Classic Sewing Magazine! Classic Sewing will have 132 pages of glorious sewing ideas, patterns, tips, and techniques and will include at least two …