Remember Martha “Toodlum” Ferguson? This “Grand Dame’s” News column opened each week with word that she loved Port Arthur and everyone in it.

Martha said her daddy always liked a yellow house. I add … if you don’t have one of those, try a perky yellow kitchen. Wilton, of cake product fame, introduces a yellow line of Better Baking Tools that draw you into the kitchen. Everything is designed just a little bit “better,” such as a rolling pin with removable handles to make it dishwasher ready and a center spiral whisk for more whipping power.

I’m in love with the Silicone Universal Scraper with two ends. The smaller one will get the last drop from jars. Scoop It measuring cups and spoons come on a steel ring with a clear, plastic spade bowl that makes a cup of something look plenty big enough. I want to eat ice cream right out of the bowl of this cup.

Toodlum has gone to her final reward, or else I’d invite her to share some butter pecan.

Other colors

Okay, okay, now I’d like to mention that a kitchen done in brown and light blue could look pretty modern, too. The Baby Bunch offers centerpiece “bouquets” of tiny baby gear rolled up to look like flowers. Now the Kitchen Bunch is part of the Thanks A Bunch collection that makes a perfect hostess gift for summer fetes. Tightly rolled blue and brown tea towels, etc. in a metal bucket make a festive showing.

Left over news

I’ve been saving a list of Wine Market Council pairing tips since The News was at the downtown building. Readers, it’s time to share.

• The council suggests a bold, red Shiraz with the fiery undertones of spicy turkey chili.

• Merlot is good with a grilled ham and Swiss sandwich.