Silly Stitching

January?

2012-01-29T23:04:00.000-05:00

The past few days I've been watching my daffodils start to come up. It is still January and this really shouldn't be happening. No, I am not complaining by any stretch but our weather has been really weird. The other day it was in the 60's and then down to the 30's and this week we will hover around 50. So very bizarre. It has been good for our heating bill and snow removal budget but just doesn't feel like winter.

The snowmen and all Christmas decorations have been put away. I think I mentioned that with this weather the snowmen just looked out of place. I put everything back in its place and it is nice to see it back that way again. I am missing three things that normally are out and think they must all be in the same spot. Now, if only I could remember where that might be. Hmmmm.

Next in line is the sewing room. Some things need to be put away and then I think I will get to sew!

Hope you have a week of wonderful sewing ahead.

Do you remember these?

2012-01-26T22:36:00.001-05:00

Library pockets and library cards that is. I would assume that these are a thing of the past in most places. And look at how The Library Faerie has recycled them. I got this package in the mail today and just loved the packaging. It brought back a flood of memories of going to the library when I was growing up and checking out books with my library card. Remember? My thanks to Anna for that memory.

This is the darling bracelet that I ordered at her Etsy shop. Don't you love the colors! It is very lightweight and feels really nice on my wrist. I think I have to wear it right away. Thinking what I can wear with it tomorrow. How many of you out there start with jewelry and go from there?

These are the earrings I got from her too. I love the two-tone ones on the left. Now I can't wear them with my multi-blue bracelet so they will have to wait another day. The red ones were free as a Valentine's Day special. Thank you again, Anna!

If you're an Etsy lover like me, you'll have to go and check out the cute things in her shop. You can find her at The Library Faerie. Actually her shop's name is a little longer but you'll have to go there and see for yourself.

I had a self-declared snow day today. I needed one day at home that was not interrupted by other demands. This allowed me to finally start putting away Christmas! Usually I leave snowmen up longer but they are getting put away too. Our weather has been so warm that they are starting to just look silly. I finished Phase 1 today and will continue over the weekend. I had to wait for someone to help me bring the storage tubs in from the garage. I'm still not allowed to lift anything over 5 pounds.

Here's hoping for that task to be finished and time for sewing to appear on my horizon. I can dream, can't I?

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Snow Days

2012-01-22T22:31:00.000-05:00

This weekend we had our first snow since Halloween and even though it was less snow than at Halloween, the cold made it more dangerous. In our area we only had about 3 inches but it kept me home for two days. They were glorious. I was very lucky that a terrific neighbor came over and shoveled my sidewalk and driveway. I am following my physical therapist's orders to not even touch a snow shovel.

The temperatures stayed below freezing today so there was still ice on the roads. I decided not to take any chances and stayed home all day. It was really wonderful to just look outside at the white snow.

While I didn't get to any sewing I did finish a project. I know someone who is retiring and doesn't want anything special done for her. We are going to shower her with cards and notes to let her know how much we appreciate her. I volunteered to make a special box for the cards. What started in my head as a box covered with wrapping paper became this -

It was a really fun project. I bought the box at Michael's and after painting it I used ModPodge to apply the fabric swatches and cover it many coats over. I used a pile of buttons in the middle instead of a handle. I can't wait to give it to her.

Thanks to my sister for the idea. I think I shared this before. This is the box she made for me on my 60th birthday. I loved that and thought it would work with fabric too.

Now that this is finished, I hope to move on to sewing! So many projects on my list.

Have a wonderful week of sewing!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T05:39:00.000-05:00

Just a little taste

2012-01-15T22:46:00.000-05:00

One of the advantages of working so much before the holidays was not being able to visit quilt shops. Yes, I did go to a few shops online but it is more dangerous to see the fabric in person! I still haven't gone to any fabric shops in person but did succumb to online fabric last week.

I love the words on circa 1934 and what is not to love about Rouenneries Deux.

I really didn't do that bad since I just stuck to getting a little taste with these charm packs. I love being able to get just a little of a fabric line, don't you? Of course, once I see it, I want more. I think it is a little like eating one potato chip.

Reunion by Sweetwater, what can I say? And now more Redwork fabric is out. I love it! Must really make something with that.

No progress yet on taking down the Christmas decorations. I do have some outside lights on my bushes that really have to come down. The rest of it can come down when I'm ready since it isn't bothering me. I really want to do something fun tomorrow and have a special project to work on. More on that next time.

Have a fabulous week, everyone!

Early morning

2012-01-13T06:41:00.000-05:00

I am convinced that one of the greatest luxuries in life is waking up naturally. No alarm clock and nothing to rush around and get ready for. Aaaaah. Since I don't have to be anywhere until 11:30 today I thought that I would sleep a little later and wake up naturally. The second part did happen but why did it have to happen at 5:49 this morning? But then I heard the siren call of the computer and decided to check out a few things. Which lead me here and the realization that I haven't posted for a bit.

I do think that all posts should have some kind of picture and just went to look for one. Isn't this a great rooster pic! A friend of mine is in Key West right now and she took this in a parking lot. I did crop it a little to get the cars out of the picture so now it really is perfect. I'm glad that he isn't what woke me this morning.

I really thought that by now I would be caught up and have some time to get sewing. That just hasn't happened yet. My Christmas decorations are still up and I still need to organize my sewing room and projects just a little. Where does the time go? Luckily, I don't mind my decorations and they might just stay up a little longer.

Even when I get my Christmas things put away, I do leave the snowmen out. One friend will usually start begging me to put them away since we have so much snow and she feels I am responsible. That is not happening this year. We had a lot of snow Halloween weekend but no more so far. We have had very strange weather. Hardly cold enough to wear a coat on some days. Not a complaint, just an observation.

Now, before I end, I'm going on record to say that it's okay if we don't get tons of snow. This was from last year and I have pictures to look at and don't need to see this. But I did hear that we are getting snow in February. How do they know that?

Time to close. I think I should have put a warning at the beginning. Something like, "It's early morning and my thoughts are meandering." They sure did today. If you got to the bottom of this post, thanks for sticking with me. Hopefully, I'll be back very soon with some sewing or fabric at least. Right now, I may just go back to bed, it's still dark outside!

A lovely day

2012-01-05T19:27:00.000-05:00

I had a lovely lunch with a dear friend today. It wasn't too cold out so after lunch we did a bit of shopping. Lucky for us we were on the tail end of the Christmas sales so not too much was left. This little leather tag just made me giggle so I had to buy it. Can you just hear the tone in the question? I don't feel that way but it still made me laugh.

I had to miss the Good Enough quilters meeting the other night but fortunately Fran took pictures and sent them to me. These are a few more of the bug jar blocks for our charity quilt. Don't you just love the lizard on Laura's block? This was a good reminder for me since I have to make mine by the next meeting. I do believe that will be my first sewing as soon as I get a chance. I think this will be such a cute quilt.

Dru made this little twister wall hanging for Christmas. I love the colors and the back of the quilt too. I hope you enjoyed this during the Christmas holidays, Dru.

This was another quilt that Dru made for a baby quilt. This fabric looks so cute. That is one lucky baby.

Lynn made a new tree skirt from the charm pack she won at our last meeting. Great idea to use them for this.

Lynn was also very busy. She made a Christmas quilt for each of her children! They look great and I wasn't there to see them in person but I think she actually finished them before the holiday! I am very impressed.

I really do plan to get started sewing but this weekend I'm having some company on Sunday. And I have to finish a book by Monday night for my book club. My book club is reading The Devil in the White City - about the Chicago World's Fair. I really need to finish before our meeting since I'm the hostess and have to lead the discussion! The best thing is I have some special snacks planned for the meeting. I'll tell you about them after we have them. I don't want to spoil the surprise!

Happy Sewing everyone.

Nancy

Let me recommend

2012-01-02T23:02:00.000-05:00

I wish I was posting with some sewing to share but my catching up hasn't included any of that just yet.

First, I had to tell you about these amazing caramels. A friend gave me a little bag in my Christmas presents. I have to tell you they were simply amazing. Very soft and chewy and covered with dark chocolate. Heavenly. And as luck would have it there was a website listed on the back. In case you feel like checking them out, here it is. Abdallah Chocolates The first thing you see will be the caramels. Sorry mine are all gone and I can't share.

If you look carefully at the group of snowmen, you will see one of my newest snowmen. The round roly-poly snowman is a gourd. I met Karen Myers at our Craft Show this year and just had to have one of her snowmen. The painting on the gourds is amazing. I'm not sure where she is going to be in the next few months but you can see more of her work on her website. Emajinit Gourds

Now to a little sewing info. I forgot to mention that at our last quilt group meeting, we had a gift auction. The little project bag above was what I won. My plan had been to make it by our next meeting but that is not going to happen since our meeting is tomorrow night. Maybe next month?

Ready for the new year!

2011-12-28T21:28:00.000-05:00

I am happy to report that I am getting back to business. While I'm still enjoying the holiday, the work downtown is finished and I do have more time. It feels really good. I haven't gotten back to any sewing yet but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. My first project will be to finish the backing and quilting for a top that I gave someone back in May. I'm hoping to finish before this person has another birthday. I have many other projects but have to take them one at a time.

Now that I'm home I can just enjoy the house and my decorations. I don't have any plans to un-decorate yet. There is scads of time for that. And even when Christmas comes down, there is always time for snowmen. As you can see, Molly even got in on the decorating!

Santa is happily resting in his rocker.

Just a few of the gang.

Always room for one more.

Did you ever stop to realize how many snowmen there are?

Standing guard

Whatever you may do, I hope that everyone enjoys the rest of the holiday and has a wonderful new year. And may it include lots of time for sewing!

It's about time...

2011-12-19T23:13:00.000-05:00

...for another blog post, that is! I can't believe I have neglected this for so long. Working seven days a week and trying to get ready for Christmas has really taken all my time. Now that my cards are all sent, presents are bought, wrapped and in the mail, I can finally get back to the rest of my life. I only have two more days to work at the Christmas Village. And lucky for all of us, the weather has not been too cold.

Our Good Enough Quilters group met two weeks ago and it is time to share their wonderful creations with you. The pink and green quilt was made by Fran. Isn't it pretty! We all loved the finished product. The back of the quilt was a solid piece of fabric which really showed off the quilting.

Our group is making a bug jar quilt for the local nature center and here is one of the blocks. I hope whoever made this will forgive me for not remembering who this belonged to. We will each make our own section and then put them together in a small quilt. I love the idea and we all will have them ready for our February meeting.

Looks like black shoes were our theme for the night!

This is Cindy's Halloween table runner. I think it is hard to see in the picture but the center is rather sparkly.

Debbie made this quilt for her granddaughter. I think the colors are great and the quilting she did is perfect.

This is Laura's block of the month quilt. Very hard to show since it was a king-size quilt. I think the different blocks look great. It is one of my quilts in progress. Mine will not be king-size. At the rate I'm going, doll-size would be impressive.

I'm not sure when I will get back to this blog so I want to wish everyone a wonderful holiday. May you be surrounded by those you love.

I'm still here!

2011-12-03T20:50:00.000-05:00

I just looked at my blog and can't believe I haven't posted since November 21st. Wow, where does the time go?

Actually I have been spending most of my time at the Kathe Wohlfahrt store at the Christmas Village in Philadelphia. It took us a week to set up and then opened on Thanksgiving Day. As usual, we have wonderful handmade German items and lots of wonderful customers. There are people who have been coming since we opened for the first time four years ago. I think I have mentioned this before. If you live in the Philadelphia area, be sure to visit the Village. It is open every day from 11-7 and on Friday and Saturday from 11-8. Just like a trip to the markets in Germany.

I did have off from there for the last three days so I could help at the Craft Show at the Pearl Buck House. The show is juried and filled with wonderful items. The Santa candle holder is one of the items I found to buy there. So very cute.

In the middle of all this running, I have been trying to get all my decorating finished. Before I could start, I did have to get some help to bring in the bins of "stuff". A friend brought some in a few weeks ago and then my godson came over and took those out and brought in the rest. It sure is helping me to make progress. I'm getting there!

The snowmen are getting ready for winter to arrive.

Just a little comfy spot by the hearth.

Does anyone smell gingerbread?

The carolers and the French Santa.

Love the funky tree in the middle.

It is always so much fun to get out the decorations and find things you had forgotten about. I am pretty pleased that items for each area are in the same bin. Makes the job go so much quicker.

My goal is now to finish the decorating and maybe even get to sewing! There is still time, right?

A lovely day

2011-11-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

The weather was perfect on Sunday and I got to spend the morning in Philadelphia watching the Philadelphia Marathon. No, not running, watching. My nephew came down to run the half marathon. No, running 13 plus miles is not my idea of a good time but it was really nice to watch others on a lovely sunny day. He finished in under 2 hours and was pleased with his results. (He ran the marathon a few years ago and that day was cold and rainy. This was so much better.)

It was a very early day for both of us. I was very tired but couldn't use running as my excuse. After I watched the beginning of the race, I went in search of some breakfast. I didn't want to venture too far away from the race and lucky me, the only place to choose was The Four Seasons! After spending so much time in the last few days on my feet setting up for the Christmas Market, it was simply lovely to sit and relax and enjoy a delightful meal. Doesn't it look good?

After I finished eating, I went out to watch the end of the half marathon. There was quite an air of the event and fun to see all the runners as they finished. Most of the half marathoners look pretty happy when they finish. When Chris ran the marathon, I saw some people who looked totally beat after 26+ miles and some who looked like they could run it again.

While I was waiting I saw a few very special murals. Philadelphia has a very strong mural arts program. I believe they have more murals than any other city. I knew this but didn't realize that it extended to the trash trucks. I love this one. There were only two there but I would love to see the rest of the fleet. There are several mural tours in the city. Not sure the trucks are part of that tour!

I'm not sure if I'll be posting before Thanksgiving so I want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving, hopefully spending time with people you love. I'll leave you with this lovely picture from the lobby of The Four Seasons.

An interesting picture

2011-11-18T22:47:00.000-05:00

For the past three days I have been working at the Christmas Market in Philadelphia. The market opens on Thanksgiving Day and it takes us quite a while to set up. The market is in Love Park this year and we are located right near the Love Statue. You do see lots of people having their picture taken by the statue but today was a first, for us at least. There was not white dress but there was a wedding. Only a few guests along with the couple and their minister. I would love to know the story behind this couple. Very appropriate spot for a wedding, don't you think?

As I said, we're not set up yet but this is what our tent looked like last year. You can find us and the lovely German products close to the Love statue. The market will open on Thanksgiving Day and run until Christmas Eve.

Just a few of the things in our tent. If you want more information about market, you can go to this site.
Philadelphia Christmas Village

Be sure to come visit if you are in the area.

The seasons are colliding

2011-11-15T22:37:00.000-05:00

As I look out my window I can still see some color in the trees. Of course, the tree right outside my window is almost bare so it does really give me a good view. I love how it looks on darker days and lighter days too. The colorful trees just pop!

I think I've captured this tree before. It stands between two houses and just stands out against the siding. It still has a way to go before all its leaves are gone but if we had another hefty storm, that would probably be it.

In my house I'm really trying to follow Nordstrom's lead and keep Thanksgiving decorations up until Thanksgiving is over. At Nordstrom's they even have a sign up that they believe each holiday should have its own time. I agree but sometimes it is hard not to get a jump start on Christmas.

Tonight I went to the first night of Festival of Trees at the Pearl Buck House in Perkasie, PA. The house is absolutely beautiful with all the decorations. Each room has been decorated by a local group or organization and they have outdone themselves this year. If you live in the area you should really try to go and see for yourself. If you want more information, you can go to this link Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck House. It will be in place until December 31st.

The rooms in the house can't be photographed but this milk house is outside. Don't you just love the decorations that transformed the house into Santa's. And if you got close to him, he talked. I hadn't seen this but a little friend (arm in the corner) asked me if I wanted to see Santa. She was especially proud since this house was decorated by her grandfather and most of the toys inside belonged to her or her brother. It was charming.

And I thought you should have a closeup of Santa's charming face. Very appealing, don't you think?

Even though decorations seem to be coming at us fast and furious, I think we can finally handle them as we get even closer to the official start of the holiday season. Full disclosure, I did put some holiday rugs down in the house.

Have a wonderful day!

This and That

2011-11-13T21:53:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe the last time I posted was November 2nd. I do believe I have been making up for lost time by being incredibly busy outside of the house. I couldn't drive for 5 weeks and then just gradually entered the busy world full force a few weeks ago. I haven't done any sewing since I finished the birthday quilt.

Yesterday was a chance to slow down and have tea with some friends, as you can see from the sign on the table. We went to Tilly Mint's in Souderton, PA, truly one of the loveliest little tearooms I've ever visited. Trish, the owner is so charming and the food and atmosphere are wonderful.

Don't you love the folded napkin? I do believe having tea is one of the most civilized ways to dine. I look for tearooms whenever I travel and also in the local area.

This was the food served for the three of us. It is always presented in such a pretty manner. The sandwiches were delicious. One time, someone told me they didn't think you get enough food when you have tea. Personally, I think this is plenty. Trish always serves raisin scones because they are traditional. And very good, I might add.

I just had to share the ladybug. Every time I've been there the ladybug is one of the sandwiches.

And of course, the yummy little desserts. Sugar cookies are always a seasonal shape. Just too cute.

I'll be back soon with more news. And hopefully some sewing too.

Pillows, we have pillows!

2011-11-02T22:27:00.000-04:00

I'm back with the pillows tonight. Here are 11 that we had pillow forms for. There were two others but Lynn liked those so much, she bought them already. I wish you could see each pillow close up and look at the fabulous backs on them. Some have the same backing but some others were made of contrasting fabric. You know how it is when quilters gather and create!

We ran out of pillow forms but that fabulous group just kept going and made more. There are 19 more to fill and these are great too. Notice the one on the lower right. She is perfect for our gift shop with the other Asian themed items we sell there.

Here are a few more. A few that have matches. I can't wait to get these out in the store for sale. May have to buy one or two myself. And a few more Asian ladies in the picture below.

I couldn't end the post without showing a few of the sewers at work. They were just absolutely great. And I have to say thanks to Fran and Cindy for setting up the room. It was the best arrangement for group sewing.

On the table you can see some of the fabric laid out. What fun to pick and choose from some fabulous fabric.

Peggy and Karen did lots of the cutting. It was a real assembly line.

If you peak to the left of Lynn's shoulder you can see the pillows she bought! I think they already made their way to her home. I'm sure they look great.

Who knows what we can do next!

A productive evening

2011-11-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

We had a meeting of our Good Enough Quilters tonight and they were anything but just good enough tonight. It was an amazing time as everyone worked hard to make pillows to be sold at the Pearl S. Buck Gift Shop. We had fabric and pillow forms that were donated and with their sewing machines whirring, these ladies made magic. Cindy's sweater pictured below shows just how hard everyone was working.

I do have a few other things to share tonight so I'm going to take some time to photograph the finished pillows so you can appreciate them fully.

Drew showed us her sampler quilt that she finished. This was the one where each of us brought a block pattern each month. Hers turned out great and we all loved the border she put on. I didn't finish mine yet but it sure gives me some ideas.

Don't you love the way she put on the label. It is just enough set right there in the corner. Another idea.

I didn't have one to share tonight but I did have a finish. Here is the birthday quilt which I finished on Sunday night and delivered on Monday. I am really pleased at the way it turned out. And happy that I had the whole thing finished in time to give it as a gift.

Here is a closeup of the backing. While the front was fruits and vegetables, the back was baking supplies. Dan loves riding so the bikes went around the quilt in the binding.

Now, remember, tomorrow I'll be back with pictures of the pillows. I have to find the best way to display so you can see them and appreciate them. I think they exceeded all our expectations!

Sneak peek

2011-10-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

I'm sewing! I started putting the blocks together and my shoulder feels okay. It really isn't bothering it at all. And it feels so good to be back at the sewing machine. Here are just two of the blocks. They are perfect for chain piecing. So far I've only done the tans and a few reds but I think they will look great when all the colors are together.

Now for the good news/bad news. Did I mention that I need this for Monday? I may just be giving the quilt top and finishing it after the birthday. (Don't you love those gifts you can give again and again?) And the good news is we are in for a Nor'easter on Saturday. Perfect weather for a day of sewing, don't you think? I can't wait to continue...

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend doing whatever you please!

Nancy

Step one is done

2011-10-25T22:13:00.000-04:00

I cut the fabric tonight!! I wasn't sure how my shoulder would feel but it is not too bad. I am going to ice it now. Not surprising, most of the food fabric was either red or green. Since I had so many to choose from, I repeated a few of the tans and yellows. The others will only appear in the quilt once.

I hope you can see the words on this fabric. Not sure where I found it but it will fill in perfectly too. I love the cooking expressions and I think it will be a great little surprise in the quilt.

And finally, the black sashing strips. It was really easy to cut and as you might guess, the food fabric is bounded on the long sides by the black strips. How easy is that! I would love to start sewing now but have to get up early in the morning. I'm having my first day of school tomorrow. I am finally going back to subbing. I started my strengthening exercises today in PT. Hard to believe it has only been seven weeks since my surgery. And now, I am going to sew!

Getting close

2011-10-24T21:59:00.000-04:00

Okay, so here are the fabrics I'm going to use for my next quilt. I'm making another birthday quilt for someone who cooks a lot! Loved the Farmer's Market collection so I'm using them with black sashing. I found a really simple pattern. I'm ready to cut. I was hoping to do it tonight but time got away from me. So, tomorrow will be the day. I'm cutting and getting ready to sew!

Getting closer

2011-10-20T12:19:00.000-04:00

A friend was visiting me the other day and I asked her to help me set up the sewing machine. It looks so good back in its place. I am getting stronger each day and feel that soon I will be able to actually do some sewing. I can't wait. My PT even suggested I could try 15 minutes at a time or even keep ice on while I'm sewing. An interesting look, I think. Soon, very soon, I hope.

I was at a meeting last night and was the lucky winner of not one, but two prizes. The first prize is in my car since I can't carry it in by myself. In a basket and needs two hands, it's not that big! The second prize was this darling turkey and the Thanksgiving pumpkin. I love them. Decided it's not too early to set them out. After all, it is already the 20th of October !

I love the sunflowers on this white pumpkin.

And, sad to say, I did go and visit a fabric store that is closing. Always sad to see. On the first day, they had a very generous 50% off everything. I found a few things that needed to join the rest of my stash. (One friend did remind me that 50% off does not mean free. Really?)

A few special project fabrics.

Check the black and white sewing tools. Not sure you can see the sunflowers in the yellow fabric.

My fingers are crossed that the next post will have a project on the machine, ready to sew!

All of a sudden

2011-10-12T11:36:00.000-04:00

When I was out yesterday, I noticed that the trees seemed to have changed color overnight. The day before they were green and some were brown and then all of a sudden you could see bursts of fall colors everywhere you looked. These are just a few of the trees in my neighborhood. The middle island will soon be filled with bright yellow trees. I do so love the fall colors.

I am happy to report that both the surgeon and my physical therapist are very happy with my progress. I am farther along than they would have expected. My sling is gone and I was told I could drive but to start slowly. No three hour trips for me! At least not with me driving. But perhaps I can visit a local quilt shop soon? Unfortunately, I haven't yet been able to sleep in my bed. My shoulder still needs the support of my favorite chair and pillows. Good thing it is so comfy!

As my friend pointed out when we were getting out fall decorations, "You don't even like Halloween!" I told her it was the holiday but I do like the decorations. Who doesn't smile at a happy jack-o-lantern? I do and enjoy seeing the jack-o-lanterns I have around the house.

His hat is a little askew. I was going to fix it but thought he looked cute.

Love the look of a field of pumpkins.

Aren't they cute?

I sure hope you have a day filled with smiles and bright colors!

And so it grows...

2011-10-08T08:43:00.000-04:00

My stash that is. I am still not able to do any sewing but luckily, or maybe not, I can surf the internet and find some great fabric. Of course, you do realize that since I haven't done any sewing my stash is the same as it was before I had surgery. I found these two charm packs on ebay. They are on other sites but I was looking for a bargain and found it. These were aptly photographed on my empty sewing chair. It is waiting for me. I was talking to a friend the other day about how nice charm packs are. You get a little taste of each fabric. Maybe they should be called Lifesavers!

Another ebay find. This is Moda PUNCTUATION by American Jane. I collect fabric with words and this is a perfect addition. Maybe I need to make a quilt with just words?

The last one was this alphabet twill tape. I think this would be fun on a child's quilt. Aaaah, I love new fabric finds.

I've had two PT sessions which have gone very well. My PT was very happy with the progress I had made up to this point. I asked the "When can I sew?" question yesterday. The answer, not quite yet, but I can try hand sewing so maybe a chance to do some of the redwork.

We are having a glorious weather weekend. Hope yours will be a good one too.

Silly Stitching?

2011-10-06T21:02:00.000-04:00

Dawn, at the As Sweet as Cinnamon blog, posed a question today to find out where blogs get their names. It did make me stop and realize that I may never have explained that when I first started this blog.

At the first meeting of our little quilt group, we were trying to think of a name for our group. We did want something that was a happy name so we were throwing out words like happy, fun, silly... That first night we never did think of our name but when I got home I really wanted to start the blog right away. I tossed around some other names and finally settled on Silly Stitching. Happy and having to do with quilting. The name says it but more important is what I wrote in the header. Our group became the Good Enough Quilters and we use that phrase often at our meetings. I live very happily in the Land of Good Enough.

No, the picture at the top is not a quilt. It is a bit of an homage to the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, NM. It is being held this week. I went there the first year I was retired and had so much fun. It is a fabulous event!

Some quilts to share - at last!

2011-10-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

I do wish I could say that I was going to share quilts that I made but, alas, that is not the case. No sewing is happening in this house yet. I started PT yesterday and hope to get back to sewing soon. Fingers crossed.

Anyway, we had our meeting of the Good Enough Quilters last night and there was some sharing of quilts in progress and a finish or two.

The patch above is the beginning of a table runner that Cindy is making. This is what the finished product will look like. She is well on her way to getting it ready in time for Halloween. Great beginning.

Laura shared the three blocks she has completed for the BOM that several of us started. I have to say that I think I've done only 2 or 3 of mine from that BOM. It is moving to the top of my list very soon, I hope. I love the colors of Laura's colorway.

Fran just got her quilt back from the quilter and she brought it to share. It is a huge quilt and we love Fran's blocks and the quilting is fabulous. I hope you can see the quilting on the green backing fabric. The quilter put hearts which mimic the hearts in some of the fabric. Don't you love the interesting stripe down the center of the back?

And with some leftover fabric, Fran made this pretty small quilt. We have such a productive group of quilters!

Cindy brought a quilt from work that we had some discussion of making. Each of the cabins were made by different people. They were given the pattern and went from there. I think that Fran made the cabin in the top right. Wouldn't this be wonderful to snuggle under on a cold winter night?

This was Lynn's applique quilt. She copied this from a collage made by a former student. His was construction paper and she replicated it from great fabric. Isn't it just wonderful? She said she had put it on the same color green that he used. I just love this one.

And a little baby bib. Lynn made 5 or 6 of these for a charity project. Isn't it cute?

Love yoyos? Well, Lynn makes these when she is riding in the car on long trips. I think she has over 1,000. Now she has started putting them together to make a large coverlet. This one has 100 sewn together. Inspired? I know I am.

It sure felt good to be back at our meeting last night and to see such wonderful projects. We might get to work on a special project next month. More on that later.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful, sunny day!

It's official = fall is here.

2011-09-29T21:45:00.000-04:00

Our weather is expected to be very cool this weekend. I don't think it will be at the freezing point but it is going to be quite a jolt to our systems. A dear friend came to visit today and helped me to get out my fall/Halloween decorations. My house and I are so much happier now. She brought in all the tubs of decorations and we got started. And as often happens when someone helps, I even managed to purge a few things that I no longer need.

Thought I would share a few of the things we found today. It sure puts me in the mood for cooler days, cozy sweaters and candy corn!

A few things on the bookcase. I have to use every surface.

I love putting little things on the window ledges.

These pumpkins replaced the pastel candle holders.

Don't they just make you smile?

Even Molly got in on the decorating.

Pumpkins on the hearth.

Adding a little fall to the flower window.

A gathering of fall.

And the tree is ready for the holiday.
(My boombox is still sitting there from our hurricane preparation.
Can I put it away now?)

And a quiet bit on this mantel.

Today was just another example of how my friends have all been so helpful as I recover from my shoulder surgery. I'm hoping that I will soon be able to go without the sling and do more for myself. But I certainly won't forget all the help I have been given. Friends and family are simply the best.

Aren't these fun?

2011-09-27T08:23:00.000-04:00

I have been trying to refrain from trolling the internet fabric sites and buying fabric while I'm here at home and have some time on my hands. However, when I saw a special coupon for Fabric Fascination on Etsy I couldn't resist. This lovely package came in the mail the other day.

So fun to open this up and see the lively fabric in the box. This is Folk Life by Anthology fabrics. It is not my usual choices but I have been looking at this set for a few weeks. And then I saw a special offer on Selvage Blog and I just couldn't pass it up. If you haven't yet discovered Karen Griska's Selvage Blog, be sure to go and check it out. She shows some of the most amazing quilts from all over.

Just can't wait to get started. I have seen many quilts online that have white backgrounds and I'm thinking that might spotlight these fabrics. Or would black be better? Any ideas?

Keeping a record

2011-09-24T08:26:00.000-04:00

While I'm still working on organizing my pattern stash, I thought I would share one ongoing project that I am keeping up with. The picture below shows this great album that I found on sale. That is a Denyse Schmidt quilt on the cover. When I bought it, I wasn't sure what I would do with it. It was a real aha moment when I decided it would be perfect to keep a scrapbook of all the quilts I have made. I don't have them in my house since I have given all of them away. I know they all went to good homes but it is nice to have a picture of each one.

The first page in the book is my first quilt. The one that started it all. I told the story of my quilt class and even have a picture of the quilters who quilted it for me.

This shot is just another one of the pages in the book. I try to give a background of each quilt, who it was for and any other important details. I am happy that I started this right away and have been able to keep it current.

Now if only the rest of my house was that organized. Sigh...

My comfy chair

2011-09-22T12:11:00.000-04:00

This chair has always been my favorite piece of furniture in the house. I read, watch TV, visit with friends and yes, take power naps there. As you can see, it has also become my place to recover from this shoulder surgery. The pillows offer support for my arm and thanks to my wonderful neighbor, the table on the right holds everything I need while sitting there. My books, phone, remote control and occasionally a glass of iced tea. Leslie loaned me the table while I was recuperating and she may never get it back!

Recovery is going well but I still can't sleep in my bed so the chair has also served well for sleeping at night. Again, the pillows offer just the right support for my arm. Not sure when I'll get back to sleeping normally but in the meantime, there is my chair.

Since the milk bottle carrier was empty in my picture the other day, I thought I would show it with the bottles in it. The bottle on the right is the one from the dairy where my dad worked. It was a very lucky find for me.

Now, I'm back to my pattern organizing project. I can't sew them right now but all these patterns are giving me lots of ideas for future projects.

Hope you all have a lovely day!

The things you find...

2011-09-20T14:22:00.000-04:00

While I have been home and not able to sew, I have started the process of purging stuff. It started in the kitchen while my friends were here to help me. My countertop was cleaned off and re-arranged and really looks great.

This corner was really crowded. The basket now holds mixes and some tea. Finally the teapots have their rightful place.
Now, the corner used to house a huge collection of recipes that I had saved. It made my niece nervous to see the loose papers so close to the stove. Funny thing is, I don't cook that much so no problem.

Now, while I was purging the recipes I couldn't believe the things I was finding. So many recipes I had saved but now realize that I would never make them anyway. But.. I did find some family treasures and recipes that my mother and grandmother had written down. Even if I will never make them, they are definitely keepers. There was one other surprise in the mix. Check out these coupons! When was the last time you saw a coupon for 5-10 cents? What a hoot. I was even thinking of trying to use them but realized, no bar code. A true walk down memory lane.

And yes, the recipes still look good.

I wanted to share one more corner of the counter with you. I have a milk bottle carrier that has been hidden away and now finally has a display spot. One of the bottles that will go in is from Greenwood Dairies where my father worked as a milkman for many years. (They were in the dishwasher when I took this picture.) We always had these bottles on our back porch but I had to find this and one for my sister at auctions. So glad I did.

Now I'm off to do a little more purging. I must say, it does feel good.

I have to share a finish

2011-09-18T21:43:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to take a minute to share this finish with you. I did share the top with you before but this was the wedding quilt that I finished right before my surgery. And I did, right under the wire. I'm not sure if the couple got it yet since I sent it home with the groom's mom. Guaranteed delivery!

I pieced together different fabric for the backing. I'm so glad we've been freed to do that.

I used a Susan Branch label. I really love her designs but have to find another way to write on the label.

My straight line quilting too. And we don't have to follow the rules any more!

It makes me feel good to share this since there won't be any finishes for a while. My shoulder is doing better every day. Still hold out hope for sewing sooner rather than later! We'll see...

Hope everyone has a great week.

Good Enough Quilters

2011-09-16T21:13:00.000-04:00

It is the day after my birthday and I am happy to say that I am still celebrating. I am one who believes that birthdays should last a month and I'm very lucky because my friends indulge me in that. Last night I went out to dinner and as we were sitting in the restaurant we saw this rainbow out the window. How lucky was I to have a rainbow on my birthday! I do want to thank all of you who sent such nice birthday greetings too. So much fun.

I am finally able to share the pictures from our Good Enough Quilters meeting. The meeting was held four days after my surgery and I wasn't able to go but Fran very helpfully took the pictures for me.

This is the quilt that Cindy made for her son and daughter-in-law. Aren't the colors great!

Closeup of the quilting. She had it done by one of our favorite longarm quilters.

This is Debbie's quilt from our block patterns. I think she may have been the first to finish. Makes me feel a little pressure... It does look great.

Love the colors of Fran's floral quilt.

Laura's BOM's from Pennington. The block on the right was my reason to start this process. So funky.

Laura's great-grandmother's sewing chest. We had one like it in our house too. Love them!

Fran's postage stamp quilt. All those tiny little squares...

I'm looking forward to our next meeting. It sounds like there are so many ideas out there for what we will do next!

Never too old to be young!

2011-09-15T10:07:00.000-04:00

Today is my birthday! And I know I would love to do a giveaway to celebrate but since I'm challenged at the moment, I will have to postpone until a little later. I can't really search my stash or closet to find something good. Maybe I will just wait and celebrate my first Social Security check. Yes, I'm that old and have absolutely no complaints about aging.

I wanted to share a gift I got in the mail yesterday.

A few months ago, my sister gave me the American Girl doll, Molly. I had told her that was one I liked. Well, yesterday, she sent me the desk. Now this desk really belongs to another doll but I said that it would fit Molly too. We used to have a rolltop desk when we were growing up and boy, do I wish I had that now. Instead I can enjoy looking at Molly's. Notice the school bag she has over her shoulder. I think some of the items in the bag will fit in her desk.

Yes, it is true, we are never too old to be young!

Day by day and a big thanks!

2011-09-14T13:18:00.000-04:00

It feels so good to finally be able to type with two hands. My rotator cuff surgery was on September 2nd and as I am improving each day, I am feeling a little more normal. Surgery went well and I have to extend a huge thanks to the friends who came and stayed with me, providing moral support and everything else I needed. And also thanks to everyone else for their cards and phone calls and caring. I am a very lucky person to have such wonderful family and friends.

Not sure if I shared this but these were a few supplies I bought before surgery. Carbohydrates are medicinal, aren't they?

I still won't be able to do any sewing but plan to look through patterns I've collected to see what I will do first after the sling comes off, PT has time to work and I'm ready to go.

I do have one other thanks for this post. When I got home from surgery I got an email that I had won this lovely, soft fabric. How is that for a pick-me-up right after having an operation! I won this fat quarter stack from Julie at Adventures of a Cross Stitch Drama Queen . It is a Riley Blake design called Promenade. I just love the soft, old-fashioned look of it.

I'll be back tomorrow with more, including the pictures from our quilt group. I couldn't be there but thanks to Fran, I have some wonderful quilts to share with all of you.

Please vote!

2011-09-01T23:03:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to do a quick post to ask for your vote. I entered this quilt in the quilting gallery's weekly theme contest. It is for jelly rolls quilts and this was certainly one of those. And, if you remember, started after I cut the strips the wrong lengths and had to go back and punt.

I only have the link to the website so if you go there, you will have to click on Weekly Theme contests to see the choices. I don't even know if there is a prize but I would love to win!

http://quiltinggallery.com/

This will take you to their site and then you can click on weekly theme contest on the right.

Thanks so much for your help!

Finish #2

2011-08-31T23:16:00.000-04:00

I finished the wedding quilt tonight! it is in the wash (with 2 color catchers, of course) as I write this. The picture above shows the dotted binding that I used and I am very pleased with it. I can send it home with the groom's mother and that way don't have to cross my fingers when I put it in the mail. After it dries I'll take more pictures of the finish.

This is the last big thing on my "before surgery" to-do list. I really wanted to get this one finished since I won't be sewing for a while. I'll just be looking at pretty pictures of quilts instead.

I went to the post office today and couldn't believe the new stamps they had there. I just love these LOVE stamps. I don't recall ever seeing such pretty colors on a postage stamp. It almost looks like a quilt, don't you think?

These stamps were just fun. At least buying stamps you know you can use them. I know I should just buy lots of forever stamps but I love to use different stamps when I send cards to friends.

Last day before surgery tomorrow. Sadly, I think that cleaning is at the top of the list. Oh, what fun!

I love little quilts!

2011-08-30T22:35:00.004-04:00

I love little quilts because you can finish them quickly. This is the little quilt/table mat that I started just a few days ago. I cut the fabric into 5" squares and just added the sashing. I do love the black and tan check fabric. I just finished the binding and now it is in the wash (always with fingers crossed and a color catcher thrown in.). I really tried to make them more random and then of course, you switch something and two of the same are next to each other. Hmmm. I am pleased with the results and can't wait to send it on its way.

The back isn't fancy but I do like the way the binding contrasts with the muslin. I used straight lines again and variegated thread. One of these days I will get brave enough to get fancier but in the meantime...I have a finished quilt.

I did learn one lesson with this quilt. I pieced the binding and without realizing it (that happens when you are in a hurry) the binding at one corner was exactly where the fabrics were pieced. Everything was sewed and cut before I knew it. The corner is a little wonky but then the Navajos do believe there should always be a mistake in their work. I like that idea a lot. Does it make it look more handmade?

My sister sent this link to me this morning. It is truly awesome but definitely not going on my bucket list. Hope you can copy and see the link.

Awesome visual

I'm heading back to sewing. Now I have to work on finishing the binding on the big quilt. Won't be as fast but it will get done. I have said how much I enjoy the hand sewing, right?

Post Irene and a little sewing

2011-08-28T22:02:00.000-04:00

The storm came and went and thankfully didn't do too much damage here. I loved what they did at the grocery store to keep their cart hangers in place. I haven't been back there to see if it worked.

These were the ominous clouds before the rain and wind began. Our rain started about 1:00pm and went into the next day. The heavy rain and wind came in the middle of the night and I must admit I slept through it. We were very lucky in our area because there wasn't too much damage and we didn't lose our power. Not all others were so fortunate.

The storm ended here about 2:00 and we even had some sun at the end of the day. What a difference a day makes. These are some of my great neighbors. We got together for a post-Irene dinner. Our patios were too wet so the driveway was our dining spot. Just love my neighbors!

I even managed to do some sewing when I wasn't watching the wall-to-wall coverage of the storm. This is one block for the small table cover I'm making for someone special. I have to make 8 more blocks like this and then put them together. I really like the checked fabric I used in the middle. Can't wait to get back to it.

If you were in the storm path, how did you spend your time? May there be sunnier and brighter days ahead.

Here comes Irene

2011-08-26T23:06:00.000-04:00

No, this is not the view we are looking at now. Living outside of Philadelphia, we are waiting for Hurricane Irene. It is really hard to know what to expect. They have changed the forecast a bit but still expect to have a big storm coming our way. I have gathered together bottled water, some non-perishable food, flashlights, battery operated radio... I think I'm ready.

One of the things they are warning about is power outages. The crawl at the bottom of the TV says they could last as long as 96 hours. I sure hope not!

I do, of course, have some sewing projects ready to go. If we keep our power, I'm going to work on a small table runner/square with the fabric above. This is meant to be a surprise birthday present for a birthday next weekend. Not a lot of wiggle room here since my surgery is on Friday and after that I won't be able to sew for at least 5-6 weeks. I plan to keep it simple and quick so I can get it in the mail.

If the power goes out, I can hand sew the binding on the other quilt during the day. Without lights at night, I will use my book light and read. What a plan. Still hoping that the power stays on but have to be ready just in case.

My day will start with breakfast with a few quilting friends. After that, who knows. Most of the next two days will just be spent inside watching the storm and hoping for the best.

I hope you will stay dry and safe wherever you may be. Take care.

The other side

2011-08-24T21:31:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I think my sister is reading this and shaking her head because she can't believe I'm showing this but this is the other side of the bed. The lovely half-circle table is a bit obscured by the books piled on it. I'm showing this since one of my friends commented yesterday that I needed to make sure that I had plenty of books to read while I recover from my shoulder surgery. That is not a problem. I have a book stash to rival my fabric stash. I think I have a deep-seated fear of being without something to read so I enter a book store the same way I enter a quilt shop. Eyes gleaming, heart pounding and wallet wide open.
I am still a book reader. I love to hold the books, turn the pages and visually see how far I am into the book. I'm sure that someday I will succumb and get an e-reader but not yet. The only problem will be trying to decide which book to read next.

I just finished reading Dreams of Joy by Lisa See. It was an amazing book. It is the sequel to her book, Shanghai Girls. I am always amazed by the amount of research authors do to write a book of this scope. It is well worth the read.

After looking at the first picture I decided I needed to show the table without the books. The top is decoupaged with flowers and the legs are painted different colors. I do love this piece of furniture too.

Now back to the sewing. Almost finished!

Almost there

2011-08-23T19:58:00.000-04:00

Before I go back to sewing I thought I would share my progress on the quilting. After I ripped out all the stitches, I started over again and used the straight line stitching. I'm stitching in the ditch going in one direction and I really like the way it looks. The thread is variegated and looks good on the backing. I have 2-3 more lines to do and then I can stitch the border and add the binding. I think I'll make it!

I wanted to share my new little find with you. I was at the gift shop yesterday and this came in to be sold. I grabbed it up immediately because I knew I had the perfect spot for it. The one I did have in that spot was too small and had no space for anything. The drawers of this little chest are even lined instead of just plain wood. So happy with this. The drawers already have things in them.

I've made a little progress on my list today. Trying to get some things finished before I have my surgery next Friday. Today I used my little Green Machine and took a few spots off the carpet. It actually worked and then I had to ask myself why I waited so long. Aaaaah, procrastination!

I hope you're making progress on your lists too, whatever may be on them!

Quilts and the Outdoors - Perfect together

2011-08-21T20:10:00.000-04:00

As I'm reviewing the pictures I took today, I almost don't know where to begin. I traveled to Clinton, NJ today for the Quilts at the Red Mill Quilt Show. Because of thunderstorm warnings, the show almost didn't happen but the weather cooperated and they were able to open. It is sponsored by the wonderful shop, Kindred Quilts, which we visited after the show. Clinton is a lovely town and this shop is one to visit if you're in the area.

We were not at all disappointed. The quilts were exhibited in a wonderful setting and were a great combination of old and new, big and small. My friend asked which was my favorite and that was impossible to say. I am going to try and show you a sampling of the quilts that were there. If you don't like to look at quilts, you can stop here. But you know, you can't look at just one!

Have a bench to show off your quilts?

Or a high staircase?

Perfect for the coming season.

These two blocks were perfect together.

Over the door?

This hand-quilted whole cloth quilt was stunning!

They were prepared to close up quickly if the rain started!

Wonderful vistas to see.

Perfect walkthrough...

Just love the rustic and the textile.

Perfect

This center was stitched and colored in with crayons.

Everywhere you looked.

Blue and white...

times two

Color, color, color

Flowers in the trees.

Closeup, the leaves were in the fabric. I want it!

Great stone wall

I think these were two of my favorites and so different. The green and white was a first quilt.

And the small ones.

Simple but wonderful

Like those funky quilts.

And stars abound.

I hope this gave you a taste of the quilts. There were more than I showed but I figured I had to stop somewhere. If you are in the area next year, be sure to visit this wonderful show!
I'm off to sew!

Starting over and more yummy fabric

2011-08-19T21:58:00.000-04:00

The ripping out is finished and I'm starting over. I went to my local quilt shop (Byrne Sewing Connection in New Britain, PA) and got some great advice from a few of the ladies there. I just made the first line and it came out very well. One thing I will do is check each line before I go on to the next. I think that may be like "measure twice, cut once" in a different way. I made the stitch length longer and I think I really like the way it looks. Now I just have to keep on trucking. (Or as Nemo would say, keep swimming!)

In my dilemma over the quilting, I forgot to mention that I got some wonderful fabric in the mail. I am trying not to buy any more fabric but I had to have this Hometown fabric by Sweetwater. This one is filled with hometowns that people submitted. I haven't checked them all but love the idea.

In red,

and gray and blue. Hmmm, I wonder how Paducah got in there?

This one is filled with names related to homes.

And I love the polka dots that go with it.

I did hold back a lot since I really wanted to buy it all but once in a while I can exercise some restraint.

We have been having very unsettled weather for the past few days. Some heavy thunderstorms just went through the area and I'm not sure they are finished. I'm going to an outdoor quilt show on Sunday so my fingers are crossed that it stays clear for the weekend.

Have a wonderful weekend, whatever your plans may be.

The seam ripper is my friend

2011-08-18T22:53:00.000-04:00

So, I did get some sewing done today but then started ripping it all out. I decided to just use the straight quilting that I have seen on many blogs. That was fine but the thread was not cooperating and I just don't like it. As much as I hate to do it, I'm crying uncle and starting over. I was using variegated thread and I think it might just be too thick. And not crazy about the colors as they show up on the back. I would love to hear from some of you and what kind of thread you use for your machine quilting. I need help.

As I looked through some pictures I realized that I never shared my new chair. This is another chair that was painted by our art teacher from school. Isn't it great!!! I just gave her the chair I had in my house and she painted the seat white and added the wildflowers. So talented. This one is going into my guest room.

Finally, I have to share that I went to see The Help tonight. I read the book when it first came out and loved it. I have to say that I loved the movie too. So run, don't walk, to your nearest theater to see it. It was very funny tonight to watch people come in as I waited for my friends. I think it may have been Book Club night at the movies. Hordes of women were streaming into the show. But, don't be fooled, I think men will appreciate the movie too. Funny, sad and at times, pretty disturbing. Well worth a look.

Progress!

2011-08-17T22:36:00.000-04:00

I was going to title this post - If you were a rotary cutter... because until just a few minutes ago, I couldn't find my rotary cutter and for the work I did today, I had to cut with scissors! Can you imagine that? Fortunately for me, I only had to cut a few pieces to make the backing for this quilt. I thought I had looked everywhere but as I sat down to write this, I remembered one more place and voila!, there it was. I am so happy because it was going to really annoy me to go out and buy another when I knew it had to be somewhere...

I did sew the backing today and just finished pinning the whole thing. Tomorrow, I will start the quilting. It was a good day here and I was able to keep the windows open all day, even though it did get a little warmer in the afternoon. But I just loved the fresh air. I have to admit that I did take breaks throughout the day, because I could.

I'm enjoying lighting up my Schwiboggen for inspiration. This is from the Christmas Market where I work during the holidays. Germans would have these in their windows during the Christmas season. The shape was reminiscent of the entrance to the mines. On Christmas Eve, the villagers would watch for all the lanterns to be hung as the miners came out of the mines. When each spot was full, they knew all the miners were safe and Christmas could begin. I love the symbolism of this. I keep mine out all year because as you can see, mine is a quilting scene.

Back to the sewing tomorrow and I won't have to hunt for my rotary cutter. Yayyyy!

Going on record

2011-08-17T07:36:00.000-04:00

Okay, I'm going on record. Today is an all-day sewing day. I plan to work on the backing for two quilts and then start the quilting. Just thought I would say it out loud (or is it out blog?) and be held accountable. I'll be back tonight with a progress report!

First order of business is getting the wedding quilt finished.

Have a great day!

Love a rainy day and my creative pursuit this weekend

2011-08-14T16:33:00.000-04:00

We were promised all day rain today by the weather forecasters and it actually came true. After so many days without rain this was really welcome weather for today. I was out most of the morning and then luckily came home to spend the day enjoying the rain from inside. I'm sure my flowers are very happy since I had basically given up with the watering. They sure are getting it today.

While I'm enjoying the view from inside, I'm also creating cards for all the upcoming birthdays and anniversaries. I have been working on this for two days with many breaks in between. I have to catch up and plan to get cards made for August through October. I'm having rotator cuff surgery on September 2nd so this will be one of the activities not on my list during recovery. I'm right-handed and of course it is my right shoulder! Yes, I do think that also means no sewing for at least a month too. :(
I'd love to hear from someone else who had the same surgery. I am really wondering when I will be able to get back to sewing once I have the surgery. As soon as my cards are finished, I'm getting back to two quilts that need to be finished.

This is my creative space for making cards. Yes, it is my dining room table.

The supplies. Not quite as much as my sewing supplies, I don't think.

Paper stash. Definitely not as much as my fabric stash. I do have to draw the line somewhere.

I hope that wherever you are, the weather is what you want it to be. I'm sure enjoying mine!

Celebrating in style

2011-08-10T08:34:00.000-04:00

I have had a busy few weeks with lots of family activities which have been great. My sister and brother-in-law were visiting last week and while my BIL worked, my sister and I got to play. Carol even went on a tour of the Pearl Buck House that I gave.

The first weekend they were here we headed to CT for their granddaughter's birthday. (Her cake is pictured at the top of this post. She drew the picture and the bakery copied it.) She is seven and on Sunday we all went to NYC. While Papa and Dad did other things, the ladies went to the American Girl store to shop and have lunch. And what fun that was. My sister works at the AG store in Atlanta so this was a busman's holiday for her. And we had our own personal tour guide at the store.

The store is quite an interesting place to spend time. They really do have wonderful displays. Thought I would share a few with you today.

Each of the historical dolls had their own window.

All the outfits are a little girl's dream. Okay, big girls too.

Recognize anything in this kitchen?

This is Addy's window. She is a slave who escaped to Philadelphia with her mother.

Addy's window.They had the Philadelphia paper on the floor. Love the sewing machine and fabric!

So neat.

I love this rolltop desk. Hope you can see it.

And of course, shopping was followed by a lunch in their cafe. The dolls have their own chairs at the table.

This doll went very fancy with her feathers. And of course she had her own plate of food.

Yummy quiche

And of course, dessert!

A fun day was had by all. It is really pretty amazing the research that has gone into developing the dolls and making them authentic. Fun place for big and little alike!

Oops, I did it again!

2011-08-07T13:43:00.000-04:00

Not a bad thing at all, but I went into a fabric shop. Wasn't really looking for anything but as you know, you can always find something in a fabric shop! And I did. They are all going to be added to my collections.

I love anything with words and this was a brand new one for me.

Susan Branch does it again. And lovely little teacups, too.

And for the sewing fabric collection...

Now to get back to some sewing soon. I am planning to get the backing made for the wedding quilt and then start the quilting. Hope to have it finished by the end of the week. I can dream, can't I?

A surprise squishy package in the mail!

2011-08-04T21:12:00.000-04:00

I have been busy with no time to blog but had to share this surprise package I got in the mail today. It was the very best kind, I can assure you.

Linda, of Living the Dream, sent me a wonderful package today. Linda won my 200th post giveaway and she lives in France. She said that since I couldn't come to France this year, she sent a little France to me.

In the package there were,

Paper napkins, they so remind me of the French patisseries I visited there. Yummm.

A Paris magnet. I can put it on my refrigerator and dream of Paris.

And a lovely wooden thimble from the town she lives in. I do have a small collection and this will be a great addition to it.

Thank you, thank you, thank you Linda. I love getting surprises like this in the mail.

I'm back to work but will return soon with more news for you. Until then, stay well and

Happy Quilting!

Nancy

An easy finish

2011-07-28T04:38:00.000-04:00

I was just looking at the picture in my header again. Aren't those sunflowers just so gorgeous? Since the picture was taken by my friend Cindy, I can admire it myself. I just think they, along with daisies, are just the happiest flowers, don't you?

I wanted to share my finished skirt with you. I am so happy with it. I think you can see that it just has an elastic waist and was really easy to make. The style was meant to be a simple flared skirt but I wanted it to be fuller so I just played with the pattern. That made it take me a little longer but now that I know what I'm doing, this could be whipped up in an hour or two. Good to know for last minute occasions. (And we know I work best under pressure so there are a lot of those!)

This just required sewing sides, front and back together, making a casing and putting in the elastic. Can be filed under easy-peasy! Do any of you have your own favorite easy-peasy pattern for clothing?

Our special guest

2011-07-26T23:59:00.000-04:00

Our meeting tonight was held at Dru's new house. It is always fun to visit someone's house and see their sewing space and Dru did not disappoint. It was a special meeting too because Dru's sister, Deb, is visiting from Massachusetts and she was able to join us for the first time. I especially enjoyed meeting Deb because she is a faithful blog follower and we have corresponded with each other from time to time. I think this counts for me as meeting my first bloggy friend!

As she was instructed by Dru (Don't we always do what our sisters tell us to do?), Deb brought a few of her finished quilts to share. We were all shocked that she has only been quilting for 2 years. Her finished number really puts us to shame in the short span of time.

This was Deb's first quilt. Don't you love the red around the edge?

And she was lucky to find the perfect backing fabric. I think this one was found after a long search.

Deb's pinwheel quilt. I love the bright colors on the blue background.

A stash buster. Impressed with the way Deb had to plan it out to make this work.

Her jelly roll sampler. All put together. Sigh...

We had our usual sharing with many different completed or almost completed projects to share.

Fran had started this block for her mom but couldn't finish it after she died. Laura took it and did all the applique for her. Isn't it lovely and so appropriate since her mother was a proud Scotswoman.

Just about everyone got into the act as Laura showed her almost quilted top.

By far, the largest quilt any of our members has finished.

Don't you love the red sashing on Peggy's finished top? This is also one of our group's sets of blocks.

Lynn took just 6 of her blocks and made a smaller quilt to donate as a charity quilt. I love the border on either side.

And her backing shows the quilting.

Cindy and Dru were happy to show their treasures from a trip out to Burkholder's and other quilt shops in Lancaster County.

No one was surprised to see this panel that Cindy picked. They are soooo her colors.

This would make great backing fabric in those same colors.

And we all drooled. This FQ bundle of 25 FQ's only cost $25!! Yes, you read that right. Major find. Love those colors too. Dru had a similar pack in blues and browns. Also so pretty.

Dru showed us the fabric spray she used when assembling the quilt sandwich. She did like the way it worked. Anyone have a favorite fabric adhesive that they have used in their quilting?

Our next group project is a quilt for the local nature center. We're using this pattern to make bug jars. Some of us brought our bug fabric to share tonight but we're all looking for others in our stash before we make our decisions. Should be a fun quilt to assemble.

Have a happy quilting day!

Nancy

I wasn't going to but I did

2011-07-25T20:18:00.000-04:00

I really didn't plan to buy any more fabric but then Pink Chalk fabrics and Green Fairy Quilts had a sale. Well, you know what happened next...
So, I thought I would share my new fabric with you.

The first are from Pink Chalk Fabrics Love their selection of contemporary fabrics.

Alexander Henry In the Kitchen ABC. I love the pink teapot.

Alexander Henry Sew Much Fun. Love the pattern pieces.

Jennifer Paganelli Dance With Me - I just love these colors.

These two charm packs are from Green Fairy Quilts. Great customer service and lots of pre-cuts. Right now their layer cakes are 25% off. Yummm.

On sale at Green Fairy Quilts. I am dying to see yardage of Hometown by Sweetwater in full yardage. I love the concept.

All my purchases were for quilting yardage and then, yesterday, because I work best under pressure, I bought this fabric to make a skirt to wear this weekend. It is a fairly simple pattern and really shouldn't take too long. I just loved the bright colors! Wish me luck.

Just re-read this post and realized I used the word love a lot. But then I know that you quilters out there know exactly what I mean. We all find it hard to answer which fabric is our favorite since that changes by the hour! We all LOVE fabric. And that is what gets us into trouble. Oh, my!

Happy Sewing everyone!

Nancy

A whirlwind tour and Atlanta's biggest fan!

2011-07-24T20:16:00.000-04:00

I came home yesterday after visiting my sister in Atlanta. A high school friend met me there and we all spent the week visiting many different sites in the Atlanta area. We both agreed that my sister is a great guide and in all the years she has lived there, has certainly come to love the Atlanta area. She is their biggest cheerleader.

Wish you could see this closer. It had many pictures in it to make up the bigger portrait.

Our first stop was the Carter Library. The library underwent major renovations and is an amazing display and story of the Carter Presidency and his life and legacy after his Presidency.

Notice the lack of support.

We visited the CNN center which was a first for me. After taking the escalator up 8 flights we were lead through the building to see the background and inner workings of the network. Notice that the escalator has no support except at the top and bottom. Happy they didn't point that out until after we were up top! Notice the map of the world in the floor above.

A family mausoleum.

Margaret Mitchell's grave

One of many angels in the cemetery. They came in all shapes and sizes.

I said it was whirlwind and it was. Another first for all of us was Oakland Cemetery. It is the oldest cemetery in Atlanta and very Victorian. Families used to take picnics there so it was very much a place for the living as well as the dead. Rain stopped us short but we did manage to see many of the very interesting headstones and monuments in the cemetery. Apparently, people even hold weddings there.

The Little White House in Warm Springs, GA.

Our last day was spent in Warm Springs at Franklin Roosevelt's Little White House. We had been there before but again the visitor's center had undergone some renovations which enhanced our visit. The house itself was not opulent but a simple refuge for the President.

Now, the irony is that while the Northeast was baking in the heat, it was actually cooler (and that was relative) in Atlanta. Go figure. I watched the news each night and noticed the horrid heat here at home.

I want to leave you with a happy thought. I just got this link in an email. I hope it puts a smile on your face, too.

Enjoy the music and the video.

Through the window

2011-07-22T07:51:00.000-04:00

The northeast is experiencing record breaking heat today and it is a really good day to just stay inside. I wish I could say this picture was from my back yard but a friend took this on a trip to France a few weeks ago. It is definitely on my bucket list to go to the south of France when the sunflowers and lavender are in bloom. For now, I have to settle for looking at pictures.

This is the view out my window a week or so ago. I'm afraid the hydrangeas are ending their blooming time and the heat really isn't helping them at all. Too hot to sit out and enjoy them but it is my dream spot on a good day to sit and read a book.

This view is from the kitchen. Again, a good spot to sit and read or enjoy good weather. I'm so excited because my tomato plant has a few blossoms on it. I am babying that and watering profusely so maybe, just maybe I'll have my own tomatoes. I'm so excited.

I know that some people don't like to sew in the summer but on a really hot day I think it is a perfect activity - in air-conditioning, of course.

Wherever you are and whatever you're doing, stay cool today.

Nancy

Out and about...

2011-07-21T07:40:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share a few more flowers that were sighted while I was out and about. It has been a hard week to keep flowers alive with the hot, hot weather in the Northeast. Of course, that is nothing compared to the people who have to work outside or those who live without any air-conditioning to bring them relief.

Don't we all wonder how we survived the summers growing up with no AC. My memory is of sitting outside with a good book. We had a hammock in our backyard and that was a favorite spot to read. And I did a lot of that when I was growing up. I think we also spent a lot of time just taking life easy in the summer. Hot weather gave you permission to do nothing. And doesn't that sound nice...

The flowers in these pictures were taken in a shop's parking lot. I loved the mix of colors and flowers and especially loved the funky garden art. I think that will be all that is left in my garden for the rest of the summer. Hopefully the bushes will survive the heat. I think their roots are pretty well established so they can reach down to access any moisture there might be in the soil.

Stay cool, wherever you may be.

In the neighborhood

2011-07-19T09:09:00.006-04:00

As the temperatures in our area are inching toward 100, I thought I would share a few flower pictures I took on my morning walks. Our townhouse community has an annual garden contest and many people do such a great job with their gardens, for the contest and because they care.

I have seen these Calla lilies in several gardens recently. I think it may be a flower that is coming back.

Just love the purple color. I think it may be some kind of ground cover.

Hard to show the beauty of my neighbor's little secret garden. Just love those daisies.

I'm not holding out much hope for my flowers to survive this week. It is just hard to keep them watered when it is this hot. Hope the weather is much cooler where you hang your hat!

Have a great day.

Nancy

Beautiful wedding, happy couple

2011-07-17T14:14:00.000-04:00

Conewago Manor Inn

The wedding this weekend was simply lovely. The sun was shining and the humidity wasn't too bad. The setting was amazing and most importantly of all, the bride and groom were practically giddy with happiness.

Entering the Inn.

The sunroom

Each room in the inn is decorated in a different decor and so pretty. No detail was omitted from the planning.

One small area in our room.

The wedding ceremony took place outside on the lawn and the reception was in a tent on the grounds.

Hydrangeas on the arbor

A beautiful entrance

The happy couple

As the sun went down, the lights came on...

And yes, I had the chance to give them their almost a quilt. I wanted them to see the finished top and now I have it back home to be finished. Really think I will send it out for machine quilting. Just have to piece the back and get the binding ready to go. Oh, where are those quilting elves when you really need them.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week.

Nancy

All dressed up

2011-07-14T17:50:00.000-04:00

Or at least I will be. Going back to my clothes making roots, I finished my clothes for this weekend's wedding. And with time to spare. As I mentioned before, I finished the quilt top. I'll give it to the happy couple and then bring it home so I can finish the quilting. It is that giving a gift twice.

I really love the fabric. It is an outdoor wedding and this reminds me of a garden party.

The jacket. I'm also taking a green sweater that matches too just in case I change my mind. You never know.

And the purse. I bought this little purse about 3-4 years ago and never used it. I just love the green and blue combination.

Today was a gorgeous day so if Saturday is the same it will be wonderful. I sure hope it is. Would be so nice for everyone. It is in a lovely setting and good weather will add to the joy.

**** I have to give special credit to my friend Cindy. It is her picture of sunflowers in my header. I think they are perfect in the blue bowl. *****

Happy weekend everyone!

Nancy

Ah Provence, well almost.

2011-07-11T23:17:00.000-04:00

As you know, the Christmas fat quarters will be making their way to France tomorrow. I was really the one who was supposed to go this summer but I'll have to be happy with that for now. Tonight our book club discussed A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. We all agreed that reading the book made us very hungry and Connie, our hostess, certainly took care of that. And her decorations more than set the mood for our discussion.

Isn't this table just gorgeous. The sunflowers and tablecloth were perfect.

Connie carried the decor into the kitchen too. Just love the Eiffel Tower on the island.

Connie did her usual special food preparations and they were all in keeping with the theme. We enjoyed the food and also our book discussion, which lasted almost 3 hours.

No French repast is complete without Brie. Yummm.

You can see the wonderful shrimp that she prepared and the pretty sunflower napkin. Forgot to wait until she put the delicious onion, goat cheese pizza on the table. (Look at the next picture.)

Okay, the remainders of the pizza are on the blue plate. Obviously, we all loved it.
This table reminded me of the after dinner tables described in the book.

And of course, dessert. Lemon tart and cherry something. (It had a special name and I forget what it is)

I must admit that reading this book made me want to go to Provence even more. Next summer, here I come...

Sewing progress update - I made a great deal of progress on the dress today. Will finish tomorrow and then work on the jacket. Almost there.

Have a wonderful sewing day!

Announcing the winner!! And a finished top, too.

2011-07-10T21:41:00.003-04:00

First I want to say that I have so enjoyed all your comments and thoughts and really appreciate the new followers. You helped me get past 200 followers. I am overwhelmed. I have also enjoyed reading and joining your blogs. There are so many interesting quilters and crafters out there.

I do wish I had a prize to send to each of you but, alas, there can only be one. I used the random number generator but still haven't figured out how to post that. The winner was #30 - Linda at Living the Dream. Linda and her husband live in France. Sigh! I have emailed her and will wait for her response with her address so the fabric can be on its way to France. I told her that I had hoped to go there this summer but instead I'm sending some fabric on vacation in my place.

Quick update on the quilt. The top is finished! I'm putting it aside while I work on my dress and jacket for the wedding and also while I decide how to quilt it.

It is interesting to see how different this looks from the one that Julie at Jaybird Quilts made from her pattern. I posted it earlier but here it is now. I loved the pattern and will definitely use this one again.

I will tell you that as I read the responses, it did seem there are many out there who work best under pressure. We all have the best intentions but life can get in the way.

I hope you all have a wonderful week of quilting or doing whatever you wish. Enjoy!

Getting there...

2011-07-09T23:45:00.000-04:00

If you're looking for the giveaway, please go here. Remember, the winner will be drawn at 9:00 pm Eastern time on Sunday night!

The quilt is getting closer to finish. I was able to sew most of the day, with a few breaks in between and now I'm down to inner and outer border for this one. Once again, chain piecing was my friend. This time I only pieced pairs together. I needed to join two matching sections together so this made it easier to keep them together if I just pieced that pair.

Pieced and connected, then just match together.

Ironed and ready to stitch.

Now ironed and into the final stages.

Design floor, the final layout after moving them around a number of times. A picture really helps.

All those pieces together and awaiting the borders.

I did encounter a slight glitch today. My machine was acting up and the stitching just wasn't right. I was thinking that the machine was finished and I had to weigh my options as I took it apart. Luckily, it corrected itself and I was back in business. Phew!

Now, it's off to fold the laundry so I can actually go to bed. Tomorrow is another sewing day.

Hope your day is a happy one.

A slight pause and a new (old) find

2011-07-08T20:20:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for the giveaway, please go here. Remember , it ends at 9:00 pm Eastern time on Sunday.

I was out for a good part of the day and I'm just about ready to get back to my sewing but had to share what I found before I do. One of my stops today was at a fabric/quilt shop in Doylestown where I used to teach. I had stopped going there because it didn't have a welcoming feel to it. When a friend told me there was a new owner, I decided to stop in. (Thanks, Cindy!) And I'm happy to say, what a difference.

It seems that the new owner is committed to a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the shop and that is exactly what I found. And along with that, some great fabric too. They are stocking many different kinds of fabric. The traditional fabric was there but also the great contemporary fabrics that I love. The shop's card is leaning against a charm pack of Summer House. I LOVE that fabric. If you haven't seen it, be sure to check it out. Some very bright and happy colors.

I also found a bit more fabric for the wedding quilt. Love this brown and green. May use it as part of the backing since the colors are so perfect. The teapot fabric was a just because. I am amassing a great collection of "tea" fabrics.

If you live in the central Bucks, PA area or are just passing through, do stop in the shop and check them out.

Okay, my break is over and I need to get back to chain-piecing!

Keeping going....

2011-07-08T08:17:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for the giveaway, please go here. I will choose the winner on Sunday night at 9:00 pm Eastern time. Good luck to all the entrants.

I read a quote yesterday on the Oprah website. It seemed to be very appropriate for this project and many others.

“Getting started, keeping going, getting started again—in art and in life,

it seems to me this is the essential rhythm.”— Seamus Heaney

This quilt is making me a big fan of chain piecing. When the pieces are repetitive, it really helps the process go quickly.

The pieces stacked and ready to sew.

Finished pieces, waiting for the next addition.

I started a few last night. I expect to continue and finish today so the blocks will be ready to put together tomorrow. Sewing is on my list for the day.

One step at a time...

2011-07-06T22:40:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for the giveaway, go here

I have been overwhelmed by the response to the giveaway. Thanks to all of you I have over 200 followers and now I'm working on my next 100 posts! It is hard to believe. I really enjoy reading your comments, stories and all your blogs. Now if we could only add a few more hours to each day. It is great to be part of the quilting blogging community.

I wanted to share a bit of progress on the quilt. I was able to chain piece the first section. This was done last night...

I just finished adding the next piece to each of these pieces. I think I can continue chain piecing as I add each section. This quilt could be finished in no time!

Back to quilting for me. Thanks again to all of you who commented and joined as followers.

Have a happy quilting day!

200 Posts, A Giveaway! and One Block down...

2011-07-04T21:35:00.003-04:00

This giveaway has ended. I'm off picking the winner now. Good luck to all who entered!

As I was checking my posts earlier today I saw that yesterday's post was my 200th. I simply cannot believe that. I think that definitely deserves a giveaway and details on that will be listed at the end of this post. Woo-hoo!

I cut out all the pieces for the quilt last night and this morning. Since the pattern gave directions by colors and mine weren't the same, I had to call green, pink and sometimes blue or red. I think I came up with a good system though.

Here is the first block. I did this one all the way to finish just so I could make sure I liked it. And I do! So, I have one done and nineteen more to go. This one took the longest since I can do them in steps now that I understand where I'm going with it. I really can't wait to see how it all goes together. As you can see from the fabric, it will be contemporary and a bit funky too.

Now for the giveaway! I am having a hard time giving this up but it is a fat quarter bundle of Minick and Simpson's Christmas Past. There are 18 FQ's, if I counted right. A few were removed for another giveaway last year. This is a contemporary Christmas collection with dots, candy canes and non-traditional colors but really quite a nice collection. This is perfect for someone who is looking to make a Christmas quilt and, unlike me, can work ahead instead of 12 days before you need it. (Yes, it is only 12 days until the wedding that the quilt is being made for...)

I've never tried this before but you will have three chances to win.

1 - Leave a comment. I would love to know if you plan and work ahead or like me, work best under pressure.

2 - Become a follower, or tell me if you are already are. I noticed that I am at 180 followers. It would be so fun if I got to 200 followers for this giveaway.

3 - This is the new one for me. You will get one more chance if you blog about this giveaway and then come back and tell me you did. I know how much all of us love to know that someone is reading what we wrote. Feedback is ever so important! I love reading all your comments.

This giveaway will end on Sunday, July 10th at 9 pm Eastern time. Make sure your email is connected to your name or leave your email for me. I really want to the first name drawn to get their prize.

Good luck to all and have a great week!

Nancy

Lavender, aaaaah!

2011-07-04T07:54:00.000-04:00

I first want to wish everyone a Happy 4th of July, wherever you may be. Whether it is filled with picnics and potato salad or just a day to relax, have a wonderful time. I am planning to get some of that sewing in today and hope to really get started on the next wedding quilt.

I really had to share what I did on Saturday. A friend and I went to a Lavender lunch and toured a local lavender farm. The lunch was delicious. We ate at the Lambertville Station which is as it sounds, a converted train station in Lambertville, NJ. The lavender peach strudel was delicious, sorry I can't share a piece with you.

Then we headed to Peace Valley Lavender Farm where we learned about the harvesting and processing of all the lavender they grow. We even got some tips on growing your own lavender and making it last.

Don't you love this sign!

The owners were so great at sharing their knowledge and love of lavender.

I could almost imagine I was back in Sequim, Washington where I attended a Lavender Festival two years ago. It is always so nice to drive past the farm right before the harvest begins. Waves of purple are surely a sight to behold. And if you pull in, the scent delights you.

Have a happy day!

Nancy

Do you use Etsy?

2011-06-30T22:53:00.000-04:00

If you haven't yet discovered Etsy.com, then I urge you to check it out and see all the wonderful sites on there. In case you don't know what it is, it is a 24/7 craft show where you can visit crafters from around the world at your leisure. I have bought from crafters who live as far away as Singapore and as close as two towns away. It is great to be able to see so many different items and to support the small artisans who are selling on Etsy.

I wanted to share one of my favorite Etsy crafters with you. I think as quilters you can all appreciate the work that she does. The picture to the left is one example of her work. I wore it today and got many compliments on it.

Jill takes t-shirts and sweaters (I think they know her at her local Good Will store.), cuts them apart and then creates new sweaters, tees and tunics from the pieces. These pieces are all truly one-of-a-kind.

I have to admit that I made two new purchases from her just today. I happened to look on her Etsy site today and saw this wonderful tunic and sent her a message about making the sleeves longer. Her reply was, "Of course!" Purchase #1
A few weeks ago I sent her 4 sweaters from my closet clean out. They were sweaters I really liked but never wore. Well, off to Jill they went and soon she will be sending my new sweater jacket/coat made from my own sweaters. I'm not sure who was more excited, Jill or me! Well, she sent me a few pictures of the work in progress and there was Purchase #2. I should have them both by Monday or Tuesday and will be sure to share with you.

Here are pictures of the back and sleeves of the jacket. Jill does a great job of combining pieces and colors to make a great "new" item.

I just love the work that she does. Be sure to check her out at

http://www.etsy.com/shop/jill2day?ref=pr_shop

Have fun!

I hope all of you are enjoying some of the same lovely summer weather that we're having. I want to bottle it and save it for the rest of the summer.

Auditioning fabric

2011-06-29T22:44:00.000-04:00

I really thought I would be started on the next quilt by now but life has gotten in the way. I think I have decided on the pattern to use. I found this Julie Herman pattern in Easy Quilts. I do like it and like the idea of it being easy and simple.

And now I have to choose the fabric. The colors will be green and brown with a touch of blue. I think that is their color scheme. I've been collecting those colors for a few months and now must decide which ones make the cut!

I need light, dark and medium for the pattern but I think I have ample fabric to choose from. But now I do have to make the choice. I think I might take a few more pictures with some combinations. That helps to make it clearer, I think.

Yesterday, I drove up to Bucknell with a friend. She had to pick up her daughter at soccer camp. It was fun to spend time together and I got to see the campus for the first time. It is beautiful with old brick buildings from the late 1700's. We went to the college bookstore after we picked her up. A little different from when I went to college. This was actually a Barnes & Noble as well as the campus bookstore.

Hope you all have a wonderful, quilty day!

A close-up

2011-06-26T20:33:00.000-04:00

After I posted the picture in my bedroom yesterday, Mary commented that she liked the half table. I thought I had to share it with my quilty, crafty friends out there in blogland. As you can see from these pictures, the top is decoupaged with large cabbage roses and the legs are painted different colors.

I found this at an artisan's store and couldn't resist. Of course, I do tend to pile books on top so you can't always appreciate the work on it. Great idea for repainting furniture, isn't it?

I gave a tour at the Pearl Buck House today. It happens to have been her birthday and one of the woman on the tour was having a birthday too. Going on the tour was all she wanted for her birthday! The group of 14 was so nice and two of them were students from my school. It was a beautiful day and as always, a joy to be on the grounds and in the house.

Small but a finish to share

2011-06-25T23:08:00.000-04:00

Earlier I had shared the new bedspread and pillows. Since I finished the quilt I had time to hem the new "curtains." All I had to do was hem the edges of the fabric and it over the rods. Finished! This is my summer look for the bedroom. I think I like it. You can't see it but the floral print in the curtain is similar to the flowers in the big pillow in the middle.

Tomorrow my plan is to work on choosing the pattern and fabric for the next quilt.

Happy Day to all!

A big Phew! and a short commercial

2011-06-24T22:15:00.000-04:00

I am happy to say that the quilt came out of the wash and no running colors. Yayyy! It looks great and even with all that red, no damage was done by washing. It is laying out on the table and will be dry and ready to ship on Monday. I can't believe it.

These are the color-catcher sheets that I put in and there were colors that ran but since I put in three of these

it was safe.

Now I will move to the planning stages for my next wedding quilt. Have the fabric, pretty sure I have the pattern and it will just mean weeding out the green and/or brown colors I don't want. This one needs to be finished by July 16th, let the pressure begin!

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.

Ta-da!

2011-06-23T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have a finish, or at least that is what I am calling it. I finished sewing the last edge of binding and then a little hand quilting. Much to my chagrin, I found that some of the hand-quilting had been missed and I had to do it myself. I know it is not up to the par of the hand quilting on the rest of the quilt but I did it with love and that has to count for something. (PS - Not a big fan of doing hand quilting but that might have to do with the fact that I've never done that before.) I do love the depth that quilting gives a quilt. Hard to see in the picture but you all know what I mean.

The back is from the Pure line and I love the words all over the back. They just seem to fit so well. The only thing left is sewing the label on and gentle washing. Since I mainly used a jelly roll, it could not be washed before I started. So, it goes in the wash tomorrow with many Color Grabber slips and a few prayers too. There is a lot of red so I don't think I can do anything while it is in the wash since all my fingers will be crossed too.

Have a happy sewing day!

Nancy

Crossing it off the list

2011-06-22T23:27:00.000-04:00

I wish I could say I was crossing the quilt off the list but alas, that was not to be today. But I did get some other things crossed off and that felt good. A little of this and a little of that. My plan is to finish for sure tomorrow.

I attended an author signing tonight and was so glad I did. Elin Hilderbrand was in town and spoke at a fundraiser hosted by the Doylestown Women in Business. Elin spoke about her newest book, released yesterday, Silver Girl. It is about a woman whose husband is convicted of financial fraud, a la Bernie Madoff, who takes refuge with a friend on Nantucket. Elin lives on Nantucket and places most of her stories there. This book was listed as best beach read by People Magazine.

Tonight was certainly not a disappointment. Elin was a delight and the kind of person you just think you would like to hang with. She talked about her book, her writing and answered questions from the audience. It was a completely entertaining event. I have to finish my current book and will definitely read this one next.

We had some crazy weather today. The morning was sunny but around noon clouds started rolling in and then boom, the heavens opened and rain, hail and everything else was flying around. My lights were flickering but never went out. In an hour it was all over and the sun was shining again.

You can see the aftermath of the storm here. I have a Linden tree in my front yard and the storm blew off much of the "stuff" on the tree. And of course, the landscapers were here this morning. I really hope I don't have to go out and rake it all up. Hoping for more wind to blow it away.

Have a wonderful day!

Sittin' and stitchin'

2011-06-21T23:27:00.000-04:00

I don't have a picture to show just yet but I spent a good part of the day hand-sewing the binding of the wedding quilt. Just stopped for the night with only part of one side left. I still have to anchor the sleeve and then sew on the label and it is finished! I'll post a finish of it tomorrow. Can't wait to wash it, lay it out on the table to dry and then mail it off!

In the meantime, I have to share a surprise gift I got in the mail yesterday. Candy, who is a friend from high school, made this wonderful plate for me.

Several months ago, Candy asked me to send her some pictures of my house. I had no idea why but when I got this, I understood why. It is a wonderful representation of my house and she even included my dish border in the front garden. I just love it.

The plate was actually the second replica of my house that I received. A few years ago, another friend had this basket made for me when I retired. As you can see, I had a short picket fence around my garden then. I love this gift too. The crafter of this one lives in the area and actually showed this at a craft show. She wanted others to realize she could make the house basket for townhomes too.

These are both cherished gifts. So thoughtful and since I love my house and my neighborhood, they are even more special.

I hope that you are all blessed with special friends and special gifts in your life!

The Old Fashioned Way - I picked two winners!

2011-06-20T23:22:00.000-04:00

The giveaway ended and I chose my two winners the old fashioned way! I printed the posts, cut them apart and then picked two. The winners have been notified and as soon as they respond with their addresses and their choices, I'll get them in the mail. (This is not my favorite way to pick a winner. Really need to figure out how to number responses! Any hints would be greatly appreciated.)

The winners were Denise from Count It All Joy! who wrote - I'm a follower but I wanted to share her other words with you. She said, I love the floral print -- very pretty! I go thru my stash about every year (just before Paducah) and make some decisions. Sometimes I just reorganize it. LOL! :)

Elizabeth from Living My Sweet Life was the second winner. She said, I had a BI stash purge when I moved 3+ years ago. Now my buying habits are a bit different, and I am not planning any more purges, at least for the next couple of years. Good luck on your reorganizing!

Congratulations to both of them and many thanks to all who stopped and read and commented. I'm sure you all know how important comments are to keep a blogger going!

I'm getting back to sewing tomorrow. I have to hand stitch the binding and then it will be on its way. They will get their wedding gift before their first anniversary!

You have to love Etsy!

2011-06-19T20:45:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for the giveaway, check here! It ends on Monday night (6/20) at 9:00 Eastern time.

I was surfing through Etsy today. I know you won't believe it but I had to. We are planning our Christmas Craft Show at the Pearl Buck House and I was looking for local crafters that we might want to invite to participate. It was a job for which I was an eager volunteer! And I did find some great crafts and crafters to contact.

But I did just want to share another new purchase that quilters will love. Tasha at A Little Sweetness has a wonderful set of illustrations related to quilting. Here is the one I bought! I wanted to get all of them but really have no more wall space. I settled for just one.

Be sure to visit her site and check them out!

Aren't these cute?

2011-06-18T22:00:00.003-04:00

If you are looking for the giveaway, go here.

These candlesticks just came in the mail today. I bought them on Etsy from Mandolin Goose. They take frames, candlesticks and other items and paint them. These were brass and have been somewhat weathered. I just loved the colors and had to order. Do other quilters love things that mix colors? Or is it just me? I love colorful and unexpected. You can check out their other items here.

This little basket came with the candlesticks.

Well, I survived another yard sale this weekend. A group I belong to had a charity fundraiser and with 15 or more people contributing items, we made almost $700. Quite a difference from my $25 last week! It was a nice day for us and from 8-1 there was a steady stream of people. When we finished we packed up everything and donated it to a charity thrift shop. That is it for my yard sales!

My hydrangeas are in bloom but these don't belong to me. One of my neighbors went away for the week and she told me to cut some of hers since she won't be home to enjoy them. I love these and find it amusing that even in the same neighborhood, hers are pink and mine are a gorgeous blue. Go figure!

Sewing continues tomorrow.

New York, New York

2011-06-17T23:16:00.000-04:00

If you are stopping by for the giveaway, please go here.

No, I won't break into song but had a great time in the city yesterday. This was a bus trip with a group of volunteers and friends from The Pearl Buck Volunteer Association. We left at 7 am and our first stop was the UN. I must say this was my first trip there and it was pretty impressive. We had an excellent tour guide who was from Venezuela. It is amazing how much she was able to share with us. They are given a briefing each morning to keep them up to date on world events.

Beautiful stained glass right as you come in the building.

Lovely sculpture

I believe this was a gift from Thailand.

The world right outside the building.

After our tour we traveled to a lovely restaurant, Le Rivage. We had all ordered ahead and they did a great job serving us and keeping us on schedule. My chicken was delicious. And the ambience was delightful.

As we headed out to our cruise around Manhattan, we passed Ground Zero. You can no longer go near there since there is major construction going on. It was still a bit chilling to see the hole in the ground where one of the buildings stood.

While there was a small glitch in getting to our cruise, it was well worth the wait. Perfect sunny weather and a good guide made it a very interesting ride. I loved riding close by the Statue of Liberty. I haven't been that close since I was much younger. It was just a perfect day to be on the water and good viewing to see the sights of New York. I took several pictures of the statue but they are all sideways when I put them on this post. I don't want any of you to hurt your neck if you're reading this!

Just have to share two more things before I close this post. This was what we saw when we got back to Pearl Buck. It just takes your breath away. And that is only one place where we have those beautiful flowers.

And then, the surprise at my door. I got my order of Red Rooster's Katagami fabric. It is patterned after the Japanese stencil making. There are two of these incredible paper stencils hanging in the Pearl Buck house. I find them so fascinating and beautiful. I just had to have these fabrics. Now just have to decide what to do with them. A jacket, a quilt, so many ideas.

The six different designs I ordered.

Closeup

This one looks much like the Katagami stencil we have in the house.

Have a wonderful, happy stitching weekend!

All set up and ready to sew.

2011-06-15T22:39:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for the Giveaway, please go Here

Doesn't this look nice? I set up my machine today after I decided that I had made ample progress on the closet. The windows were open and I was all set to go. While I didn't do a ton of sewing, at least it is a start.

My first order of business was to trim the quilt and get it ready for the binding. I basted the sleeve on the back of the quilt and any more sewing will have to wait. "A journey of a thousand miles..." And sometimes making a quilt feels like that journey. A pleasant one for sure but unlike Bewitched, we can't just wiggle our nose to make it happen. Oh, darn.

And now my true confession - even though I'm purging I was thrilled to get the squishy package in the mail today. I just got the three Charm Packs from CharmPacksPlus . They were even having a sale and I have been coveting Rose Parade and Summer House. The colors and the design of these fabrics is just beautiful.
The bottom picture shows fabric that I stumbled upon when I walked up to JoAnn Fabrics today. I was researching muslin prices for a fundraiser at the Pearl Buck House. I thought this would make a really pretty skirt for the summer. I think I even have a sweater or two that would go with it. I'm going to try wiggling my nose for that one.

Back to work. I hope I can soon post the finished quilt. Only about 3,000 more steps before that happens!

I purge, you win - it's a giveaway!

2011-06-14T23:01:00.009-04:00

The giveaway has ended. Winners will be announced soon!

I am almost finished the closet reorganization and keeping my fingers crossed that it will stay that way a long time! I still have a few things to put away but I'm hoping to keep things off the floor. I am eyeing some boxes on the bottom shelves that might need to be removed to make room for "fabric".

Now, for the fun part. I did find some fabric I can part with and two of you may be the lucky winners of this fabric. I will pick one winner for each of the following bits of fabric. In each picture, the fabric on the left is at least 4 yards. Great for backing. The tan and rose fabric is one yard and the dark fabric is 2 yards. When I pick the winners I will notify each one and the first to respond will get their first pick and the other person will get the fabric pack that remains. A win-win, I think.

Now, to enter, just leave a comment on this post. You might want to tell us how often you have to clean out your stash. For a second chance, become a follower or let me know you already are. Make sure your email is available so I can contact you if you are the winner! I would hate to have to choose an alternate if you are a no-reply. The giveaway is open to all. Giveaway will be open until

Monday, June 20 at 9:00 pm Eastern time.

I must get back to the organizing. Who knows, I might even find some other goodies to include in the prize!

Never too old to learn something new

2011-06-13T22:05:00.000-04:00

I went to the last guild meeting for the year tonight. We started with strawberry shortcake, complete with blueberries and whipped cream too. It sure looked like everyone enjoyed their delicious treat. Perhaps that explained the really good turnout for tonight's meeting.

After a brief business meeting, the group was split into 3 groups and we went to different workshops. The first one I went to was given by Barbara, who is quite an expert on quilt history. Her presentation was about quilts from Wales and Provence. As she showed us, much of what was made in the 1800's was used as undergarments by the wealthy. You can see one of the patterns that might have been used on the table. They were whole cloth quilts and used a special technique where cording was pushed through channels to make the desired effect. Barbara did comment that when we use a solid fabric or even muslin for our quilt backing, we allow the quilting to really show. (And not surprising, I found another book I want for my collection - Quilts of Provence. Makes me really feel bad that my trip there won't happen until next year!)

When the bell rang we moved to our next workshop. At this one I got the answer to what exactly do you use this stuff for.

Some of you are probably familiar with wool roving. I have seen it in quilt shops but never really knew how to use it. Gina showed us needle felting and made it look so very easy. I'm trying to resist picking up one more sewing hobby to add to the collection and my closet. (More on that later.) She showed us the technique and a few projects she has completed. The picture she is holding is not quite finished but really showed the process. I love the pretty little framed flower sitting on the table.

The final workshop was a sewing project and since I forgot to bring any supplies, I came home. But not before taking pictures of a few of the quilts brought in for show and tell.

This was a signature quilt. Someone who had been president a few years before was given this when her term was up and it was finally finished so she brought it in to share. I love the colors in this.

Made as a graduation gift. School colors are green and white.

Simply beautiful. The detail is just intimidating.

Had to show the membership table. Each month Carol brings in a different quilt for the table. The smaller "applique" blocks are from a cheater panel. I don't think Carol would mind me telling her secret since she was telling everyone who admired the quilt. I just love the colors in this one.

I did make great progress on the closet today and there will be a giveaway tomorrow. I might have to do more than one since there is only so much room in my closet. I am really going to try to keep it neat and organized. Be sure to check back!

Taking a break

2011-06-12T21:40:00.000-04:00

This weekend we had our neighborhood yard sale. In spite of the rain, people came and did some buying. I made a whopping $25, which reminds why I keep saying I will not do this again. If I figure the per hour take on this, it is just not worth it! But the good news is I got rid of some things and while I was sitting I was looking through old quilting magazines and pulling out the maybe patterns. I had done this with some patterns already and filled a binder with ideas but changed my tactic for a while. I'm a little slow on the uptake but realized just marking the pages with a post-it was not a good idea. I'm about halfway through... After I finish I will have to categorize these.

Now, the picture at the top is what I'm taking a break from... I'm cleaning out the stash closet again! I pulled all these bins out and I have to shift some things on the shelves and try to organize things off the floor. You can see my serviced sewing machine on the floor. I didn't even take the plastic off the machine yet. And I must get to the binding on my quilt too. But I can't work in the very messy sewing room.

I was reading one of my favorite blogs and loved the story of the bottle tree. I don't have that in my garden but decided to share the whimsy I do have. You can read the blog at Between Naps on the Porch.
Check it out here.

Now it is back to the stash cleaning. I love being able to show that picture of the closet to others who can appreciate it. We all have that stash that we need to clean, right?

Pomp and Circumstance

2011-06-09T20:34:00.000-04:00

I think that Pomp and Circumstance has to be in the Top Ten of special songs. Every time I hear it, I get a little choked up. Last night I attended the high school graduation of the daughter of friends. It was such an honor to be included in the invitation with the family.

Given that we have had oppressive heat, it was a pleasure to be in a college field house. Love that AC when it is hot. I think the location really added to the special nature of this event. Great to have the screens for those moments that are too far away to see.

It was fun to see the decorated caps. I understand that they are one of the few high schools that allows students to do that. I will say there were more girl's caps decorated than boy's. Hmm. I wonder why.

All the speakers did a great job. Very interesting that the salutatorian compared the high school class to the characters in The Hangover while the valedictorian spoke in Applied Physics. At least, I think that is what it was! Quite clever comparisons on both counts.

Here is the graduate with proud parents and equally proud sister. Mom Tami and I met when she came to student teach with me. Just want to compliment both of them on a job well done with both their daughters.

And best wishes to Cassandra as she heads off to Bucknell!

Finished projects for some of us...

2011-06-07T23:08:00.000-04:00

We had our monthly meeting of the Good Enough Quilters tonight. I, unfortunately, did not have any sewing or completed blocks to take with me. Luckily, some other people did. Over the past 12 months we have shared patterns and now should have enough for a quilt. You got it, I don't have my twelve finished yet. Laura has her top finished and Fran laid hers out on Cindy's floor to check it out.

Don't you love the colors in Laura's quilt?

Laura did a great job with the filler blocks for hers. Now to sew them together.

Our loose deadline for finishing our quilts to share is September. Hopefully, I can meet that deadline. They usually do work for me. A few people had their other blocks finished so we had to admire those too. Fran took hers out of the layout on the floor. Lynn and Karen couldn't join us tonight but I'm sure they would have had their blocks finished. Cindy showed the one she made from our $5 block at Pennington. I haven't made mine yet but she said it was a bit tricky. Hmmmm.

We had a few other finished to share. Cindy showed everyone the first quilt she made. This was the one we made in our quilt class. It is still amazing to see how different they look with different fabric. Love the bright colors in her quilt. Peggy shared a wall hanging she made for her mother. She was thrilled to have only bought a few fabrics. It turned out this was a real stash buster. Now she is not sure where her mother will hang it!

As a group we plan to make a quilt of bug jars for a local nature center. Dru showed us the sample she made using candy fabric. Everyone is going to check their stash to see if we can use stash fabric to put this together. Who knew I would be searching my stash for bugs!!

Just had to share one final fabric find with all of you. I found these "sewy" fabrics at Connecting Threads . The line is called Bits and Bobbins and you can only find it on their site. So fun. The irony is I was ordering this fabric at the same time Linda from Stray Stitches was writing about it arriving in the mail. Great minds...

Since we don't meet again until the end of July, I'm hoping to have some sewing to share then. We are also looking forward to having a special visitor at that meeting.

Have a great sewing week!