New Year moon Near

Near as I can figure the star on the left is actually Mars.  This was taken about 6:30 AM January 2nd in Japan.  It's rather striking to see it on a clear, cold night.  God created so many beautiful things for us to appreciate and glorify Him. 

First quilt 2017

The first quilt I finished this year was started in December 2016, but completed January 2.

Quarter-square triangles set in black polka dots--spiffy.

The back is just scrappy. 

My Santa bag where I collect fabric scraps all year. 

And here is the pile of most of the scraps collected that are too small to use. It was fun making quilts in 2016 and will continue in 2017, Lord willing.  I've been trying to reduce the fabric stash I have, but somehow it just keeps multiplying...

Happy New Year lunch

😋   We had sukiyaki for lunch today.  This is a Japanese meal cooked at the table and people just serve themselves out of the pan, taking whatever they like.  Ingredients include thin sliced marbled beef cut in bite-size pieces, Chinese cabbage, leeks cut in 1 inch pieces, watercress, mushrooms, tofu and sukiyaki sauce.  Rice is served on the side.  It's tradition to crack an egg into a small bowl and stir it up, then dip the vegetables or meat in it before eating.  However, Sara and I opted out of that part.  We have added broccoli in the past and that was good, but it's not part of an 'authentic' Japanese sukiyaki dish.  Here's some photos:

The meat is fried first in a little oil, then the
veggies are added, and the tofu is last to go in.

Chef Henry

Meat with veggies, tofu  and white mushrooms cooking in the sauce.

Soooo delicious and filling!