The Quilting Pirate

Grateful Thoughts

2012-01-01T19:04:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year's!

It's funny every year I read and listen to folks mention how bad the previous year has been and how they hope and wish for a better new year. I wish they find that peace and happiness they are looking for and deserve this year. Everyone deserves happiness and peace.

Every year is hard, difficult and sad - - yet, there is always positive and so many blessings to be thankful for. It seems sometime we focus more on the bad because of the emotional impact it has. But I think if we list all the good, the bad seems to disappear - or at least minimize.

I think, if we start the year off with a mindset of gratefulness, when trouble does happen we can adapt to it a little easier.

I'm grateful for:

My husband and his journey home.
My kids and their challenges and successes in their lives.
My furry friends.
My new relationships with friends.
My old relationships with friends that continue to grow.
My paycheck, food on the table, roof over my head, electricity and the internet.

Keeping Busy

2011-12-12T07:09:00.000-05:00

I've been keeping busy with holiday happenings and here's a few things I've been working on.

This has been done awhile, it is my November "Let's Be Together" block:

And I have received 6 of my blocks back:

Been doing a wee bit of knitting - like quilting I have serveral on going projects, so it's nice to toss in a quickie dishcloth:

Sunday Grateful Thoughts

2011-11-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm grateful for adventures and new life journeys and new chapters. I'm heading to Florida tomorrow with mixed emotions. My dear friend Stacie, has fulfilled one of her dreams to move, work and live in England. I'm so excited for her, but it saddens me at the same time the next time I visit Florida, she won't be there.

I'm grateful for this new adventure for our friendship and knowing all we have been through in the first 10 years of our friendship will have prepared us for this new long(er) distance relationship.

We met online and then in person 10 years ago this coming week - kinda fitting that we'll be spending the week together as she prepares for her next chapter in life.

While all my friendships are important and valuable, this one has taken the most beating and most growing as two people can go through without being family - - though we are very much sisters at heart.
.
I know we'll make the time and effort to continue to communicate and visit each other and knowing she is always a part of my life is one of many things I'm grateful for this Sunday.

Created with flickr slideshow.

My Week

2011-11-11T06:40:00.001-05:00

I took 3 days off from knitting, to make a bag just for holding all my knitting paraphernalia! In two weeks I have accumulated a bit :)

I've always wanted to make a professional tote, but never had a "need" for now . . . until NOW! So, taking a few hours a day earlier this week, I "whipped" one of them up. I've now worked in 2 different states and 2 different shops and I have to say this is the most popular pattern over the past 5 years!

Let me say I'm in love with my new bag! It was basic and simple, just a lot of details and prep and steps! I have no desire to do another one - again, no need - - - -unless my knitting paraphernalia over grows this bag :)

Created with flickr slideshow.

I also made a case to hold my needles that matches my bag - forgot to take pictures of that. And I'm working on some yarn bags.

Happy Veterans Day!

Sunday Grateful Thoughts

2011-11-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful Fall weekend is passing and with the additional hour of sleep tonight, there is always so much to be grateful for.

My crockpot is the best time saver I have! It has been very depended on here. By the time I get home after work, I'm not up to cooking an entire meal for the family. I take a few minutes before work, stuff my crockpot with something yummy and when I walk in the door after a long day of work, it smells wonderful. Not to mention how yummy and satisfying it feels to know I don't need to spend an hour in the kitchen on my feet.

I think this is my favorite way of cooking a chicken, but we do eat beans and spilt pea soup a lot as well. Do you have a favorite crockpot recipe? I think need some new ones.

So tonight we are having Beans and Corn Bread - - yum.

And as I took this picture, I promptly crashed my glass lid on the floor and it shattered into tons of pieces. . . let me say, I'm very grateful for my husband's new job so I can get a new crockpot (can't get a replacement lid, out of stock) and continue to make dinner the easy way this week.

Sooo easily distracted. . . .

2011-11-04T07:43:00.002-04:00

Well, I've truly dived into a new realm. Raverly.com is a dangerous place. So many patterns, discussion boards and pretty shiney things.

Do you know you can document your entire stash on Raverly (yarn stash that is), including your tools and projects and future projects?! Now why isn't there a quilting site like this - it really is amazing!

I've started my third knitting project yesterday and learned how to purl. I saw a cowl on Pinterest.com and wanted to recreate it - it was the whole reason to start knitting. I had put off learning to knit because I dreaded the concept of purchasing another whole hobby and stash. But with Raverly, it will be a bit easier to contain it......I hope :)

So, I did a KAL (knit along) at my new favoritest shop - about 20 minutes away from me - Forget Me Knot Yarn Shop. They offer GREAT assistance and free!

I love the feel of these yarns! I hope to find the "perfect" button, but do you know how how it is to find buttons online? How do you google them?

This is what if should look like when I finish.

This is from Laura's Lovely Fibers Etsy shop.

I've actually paid for a Learn to Knit class and it starts today at a different shop, so we'll see what my next dishcloth will look like :)

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:43:00.000-04:00

It's my favorite time of the year! We attended a party last night and sat around a fire and had good scary food! Saw my co-workers in great costumes! Hope to share an image of that later today - we are a goofy bunch!

I have started a knitting stash....YIKES! It's a bit more challenge to purchase yarn, you really need to ensure you pick it for a specific project to get enough. I have started my first dishcloth, I'm almost done - this picture is at the half way point - I'm further a long now:

And my new stash. First picture is for my first scarf. It's called Molly's Scarf.

And this yarn is was on clearance and I really want some fingerless gloves and maybe a matching scarf or hat...I think I'm going to call Theresa at Forget Me Knot to see if there is 2 more left:

I want to get two dishcloths out of the way and then I'll start my scarf! I'm soo excited!

Oh and please add me if you are on Raverly.com - I'm quiltingpirate.

I think I'm going to adjust my name now .....the knitting & quilting pirate? :)

Sunday Grateful Thoughts

2011-10-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

I decided to finally take a leap and learn a new craft. I felt I was at a point to learn something new and different. I walked in to a local knitting store and for almost 3 hours, the owner herself spent time teaching me!

I'm grateful this week for teachers who value time to share their knowledge with others. Who make efforts to help students become successful. Time is precious and knowing someone took their time to give to me is wonderful.

I'm grateful for this gorgeous tree in my front yard.

What are you grateful for this week?

Taking Time to Enjoy Friday!

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

My picture from Wordless Wednesday is my violets in my teacup pot, but I should have taken a full picture with my teapot pot with pansies the same coloring. . . .so here's what they look like together (not the best picture, it's cloudy outside.

They are both happy plants, but I'm afraid with all the very cold temps we'll get the next few days them won't be.

I also think we have the prettiest tree on the road here - it was beautiful yellow a few days ago and now is a rich red.

I have done some "non-quilting" lately. I need more skirts for church, so found this quick and simple pattern at the shop and thought I'd try it out....LOVE it! So, now I have fabric for second one as well. First fabric is a new line from Moda called Etchings by 3 Sisters and the other fabric is from Kaffe Fassett.

Now to enjoy my day off and see if I can learn how to knit....scary isn't it? :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T06:55:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tip

2011-10-25T07:47:00.000-04:00

Ensuring accuracy in a square top, I suggest these "key" important steps:

1. Always iron before you cut your fabric! I also recommend light steam and a starch product (I love Best Press). This helps pre-shrink your fabric and stabilize it at the same time - making sewing/piecing easier. I have also noticed when I do this, I rarely need to use starch again, even when I final press my blocks.
2. Ensure your 1/4" seam EVERY time before you sew. Now if you are one of the lucky ones who owes a 1/4" presser foot with a guide - no need - I am very sure you can purchase them for all machines now days and I highly recommend it. I still make sure the guide isn't bent out of place and check my 1/4" seam regularly.
3. Pin, pin, pin! Pin as often as you can. This ensure your block seams match up perfectly.
4. Squaring up your blocks as you finish them.
5. When adding your borders do the following steps:

a. Lay your quilt top flat.
b. Measure left to right on the top, middle and bottom of pieced top. bor
c. Average those 3 measurements. Use this measurement to pre-cut your top and bottom border pieces.
d. Sew on top & bottom border pieces, using pins - pin at each end FIRST, pin in the center, then space pins between other pins about every 3-4".
e. Press your borders.
f. Repeat step a - e again for the left and right borders.

I teach these things in my Beginner Quilting classes, I don't teach perfection, I teach accuracy and how to "fix" things if need be. I feel strongly if you follow these "key" steps, your top will end up square.

Monday Mumbles...

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

Halloween is a week away and I have done some sewing that reflects my favorite holiday celebration. I took my Pumpkin Grins by Quilt In A Day and enlarged it to about 45" - - I'm working on the binding which will be a scalloped edging:

I think I need to resize the mouth a bit more, but he's good enough for us.

I also taught a class for the Braid Runner and one of my friends missed the class but wanted a runner for her kitchen table. This was the first time I enlarge one of these runners (this is my MOST favorite pattern/gift). I add 3 extra braids - the picture doesn't do it justice:

And I totally forgot to mail out my Let's Bee Together block swap (being it was my month to mail), so all 11 blocks are in the mail today and hopefully will come back to me looking like this:

It will be fun putting those together. I've made up enough for about 12 more blocks. This was a great way to use my stash for a new project. Now if I can find time and more uses for my stash I would be happy!

Sunday Grateful Thoughts

2011-10-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

I love Fall, don't you? Sure, there's the allergies, mold, crazy change in the weather - but I think the scents, colors, sounds and the flavors that come with the changing of this season out weigh all those "nasty" things.

I'm grateful for the changing of seasons and how each time it comes how I take time to evaluate how the seasons effect me.

I'm grateful for pumpkin patches and the day spent with family.
I'm grateful for the shorter days, cool nights and warm toasty quilts.
I'm grateful for the seasonal treats with pumpkins and apples.
I'm grateful for the ever changing scenery and the sounds of the falling leaves.
I'm grateful for the smell of damp leaves and wood pit fires that linger in the neighborhood.

What are you grateful for this Fall?

Block of the Months...who knew?

2011-09-06T08:11:00.000-04:00

I'm so behind on my BOM's I focus last Friday to catch up and finish off a few. I cut out 10 blocks and began to sew, sew, sew.....

I finished all 12 of my Mystery Christmas Blocks, now to finish up the stashing and borders, which I did purchase from the FQ Shop as well. I have SOOO much left over, I have to say this is the BEST BOM I've ever participated in. I could make 12 more blocks easily!

And I finished my second block in my latest program, so now I'm only 2 month behind. It's another Tonga program called Rhapsody.

Now I'm working on something new, of course.

A little sewing here and there....

2011-08-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

FINALLY, FINALLY feel comfortable in my new sewing studio and been working on several projects to get out the door...and a few just for fun....

For my "Let's Be Together" sewing block swap:

For the shop:

And for me:

Now working on more new class samples....never ending story :)

Monday Morning.....

2011-08-08T07:51:00.000-04:00

Still catching up on things and unpacking is almost complete!! Yet, I found time this past weekend to do some sewing in my new studio.

From my guild we are doing a block swap, where the owner of the blocks prepares little fabric kits for us to make up. I did two of these funky stars for her. You can see the tutorial of this design here.

I also did another Let's Be Together Block, but will show it off later this week - and I finished my latest class sample for the Braid Table Runner. I had fun doing this and this pattern is GREAT----completed it entirely in one afternoon, and hand binding in the evening watching tv! It's a great gift!

I'm off to work and cruising by end of the week!

The Final Week in July. . . .the big move!

2011-08-05T06:00:00.019-04:00

So, last week was the official move from an apartment to a large house! While we are all moved out, we are still a little ways from moving in :) Realizing we just have too much and weeding it down is time consuming. That includes my sewing stuff. Hoping for a little relief this weekend.

I could show pictures of my studio now, but it's not quite ready or organize to do so. But I can show some of the things I have sew in between the few spare minutes of "me" time over the past month.

First, my finish challenge for my Modern Quilt Guild....ok, let me state just the top is complete. We had to use ALL 40 charms in a Kona Classic charm pack and allowing for only one other fabric to work with. Well, loving that tasseling new notion, I used it - it will work out perfectly as a bed runner:

Then, I've done several blocks for my Let's Be Together group:

And finished sewing 2 valances, one for our main bathroom and one for my kitchen....the crabs are gray/blue, that's the theme for the kitchen and the lighthouses/beach is the theme for the bathroom:

And that is about it....we are pretty much caught up....I also received my August towel from Jeanette:

I'm hoping to get more of my studio organized and finish up some class samples this weekend.

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

3rd Week in July

2011-08-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

This has definitely been a "work" month for me. I have worked more hours then ever before and got to travel to Bernina University in San Antonio Texas for this week. I accompanied my two bosses and one co-worker on this 18 hour drive from Knoxville. We enjoyed some cajan food at Prejeans in Louisiana and of course have some great Mexican food in San Antonio. I last visited San Antonio back in 08 for a Viking convention (at the same hotel even) and not much had change....granted the previous time I was in SA was way back in 1990. I do love San Antonio.

Here's my photos from week 3:

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T06:00:00.006-04:00

Second Week in July

2011-08-02T06:00:00.013-04:00

Sunday, July 10th, my small sewing bee hosted it's first "official" sew-in in the back of Noodles & Company restaurant. Now it still amazes me they allowed us free use of this back room and with 9 ladies and their various sizes of sewing machines! We had a great time, good food and were productive. Granted we discovered we need more space for ironing boards and elbow room.

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.

The last 2 pictures, one is my block of my newest BOM from Tonga Batiks and the other is my towels I sent out for this month's swap.

This was the perfect way to take time for me - - because when Tuesday hit that week, I knew I would be non-stop between working, traveling and moving.

I worked at the shop from Tuesday through Thursday and then on Friday, I worked our booth from the shop at the AQS Quilt Show in Knoxville. I really do love large shows, the variety in quilts and vendors always makes me happy. I felt a little disjointed with seeing the show as I was working the booth (and sold a machine as well), but I feel I got to see what I needed to enjoy.

Here are some of the beautiful works I saw, not to mention Kathy & Evelyn who work with me at the shop and Tina and Vanna, my friends.

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.

Whew....we are now half way through the month....tomorrow's will be wordless and pick back up with my adventures in San Antonio, Texas on Thursday - - are you keeping up?

First Week In July

2011-08-01T06:00:00.019-04:00

As I went through my plathera of pictures for July, I thought the easiest way to share them was by weeks.

Let's start way back on July 1st...man that was awhile ago and seems like AGES! My wonderful son, Allen and my future daughter in law, Fallon drove from Philly to Tennessee to spend the 4th of July weekend with us! Oh and Linguine too (my grandpuppy). We watched fireworks and spent a touristy day up in Gatlinburg enjoying the Hillside Winery and Hard Rock Cafe. Also got to take a ride in a gondola.

Of course the time flew soo fast and it seemed harder this time to say good bye - I just wish they were all closest. Here's our week in pictures.

Created with flickr slideshow from softsea.

Grateful Sunday Thoughts

2011-07-31T06:00:00.001-04:00

Where to start....it's been an entire month of non-blogging....July was filled to the fullest this year and will share all the pictures over this coming week. Yet, as I look upon the past year since last July I have many reasons for gratitude.

1. My ever supporting family and husband. There's no way we could have accomplished so much this past year without each other. Starting anew has been the best thing for our family.
2. My friends - old and new. They were there to support me in the beginning and continue to do so. The new friends don't replace the old ones, but enhance those relationships that I miss dearly.
3. My jobs and bosses. I can't say enough of the strong women who support me financially, emotionally and professionally. From Maryland to Tennessee these incredible women have been amazing.
4. My own personal strength and growth. Being able to be open to change and embracing it and making my own future.

Block of Months

2011-06-30T06:52:00.000-04:00

I'm so behind on my Block of the Months, but I at least caught up by one month.....and yeah, and I started a new one last month....

My Mystery Christmas BOM from The Fat Quarter Shop, I have 2 more blocks to finish up and I have the finishing kit which has a A LOT of tiny square in a square corner stones - yikes!

Back To Nature by Tonga for Timeless Treasure. I'm SOOO excited to wrap this one up, it's going to be SOo pretty. I actually started their new BOM with a local shop and it's a different color palette - I just love batiks! I this is the center part of the BOM, I have 2 more months to complete with this one.

My Stars Around the Garden, this is month 4 - so I have a long way to go on this one.

I need to work on my Jewels of the Crown BOM, as well. I can't wait to move into my new sewing studio so I can be more organized and have an active sewing life again!

Wordless Wednesday - Shrooms

2011-06-29T08:28:00.000-04:00

Life moves on . . .

2011-06-23T06:37:00.000-04:00

Trying to find the time to balance my hobbies has been challenging over the past few weeks. Hubby is now in the HOUSE! This is fantastic! Learning to live together is the balancing act between working more hours, sewing/prepping for classes I'm teaching and free time for me!

I finished my latest project almost 2 weeks ago - my second bag! Grids & Grommets, with charms. I made my pockets on the inside fit my camera and iphone - though if I make it again I need a pocket on the outside as well:

I made a braided handle which I like, but is too thick to really rest nicely on my shoulder. This is a big purse and I have it stuffed :)

I also made a new pillowcase for my oldest daughter - the fabric is sushi with cute words all over it:

I plan to make 2 more for her best friends sometime - - - in between things.

Hoopsister's class this afternoon and Pizza Party tomorrow evening - busy busy busy....not to mention I'm working the next 3 days.

Manic Monday Winners!

2011-06-13T09:26:00.000-04:00

We have two winners for last week's Manic Monday prizes! The first winner is . . . . .

That would be Ms. Kris. Her blog is new to me, so go and check it out - great stuff there!

The second winners is . . . .

That would be Ms. Cheryl, another new blog for me to add to my reading list!

How exciting and congrats to the lucky winners!! Thank you all for participating.

I have more exciting news for Manic Monday in July - - - July is my blogoversary, 5 years blogging via Blogger/Wordpress (though I did journaling through other means before that even) ....SOOOO EVERY Monday in July I will be having a Manic Monday! How exciting? And these are going to be bigger things, meaning cleaning out my UFO's and stash!

Whew, all this excitement has me pumped up to go and sew now :) Enjoy your day!

Let's Be Together Block Swap

2011-06-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

I realized I never showed of my 2 blocks I sent out over the past 2 months. I think both ladies have received them. One didn't come with directions, so I had to improvise and hope she still uses it in her quilt.

This month's is REALLY fun. The Melissa is using Chili Peppers fabric and I love it and made something very special for her block. It goes into the mail tomorrow, so I'll show it off next week!

More Mail Stuff

2011-06-09T07:50:00.000-04:00

Have to show these great blocks that Ms. Betsy sent me for my favorite things quilt:

I LOVE the ladies, each of them have "our" names on them - Betsy, Cindy, Barb and me :) I need to get some more of these blocks together. I think I'm going to add a few of my old favorite t-shirts into the mix as well!

I've been doing some sewing this week, but not getting as much time as I'd hope to sew. Oh well, it will come!

I love getting mail!

2011-06-07T06:00:00.017-04:00

I have been MIA over the past week in blogland...I had over 1000 new blog posts to read...well, I might try to go back through and catch up, but I hit that "Mark As Read" button and now I think I can feel not so guilty.

I have done a little sewing, not much. Hubby was here for 10 days and most of those days were painting, cleaning our new house, graduation stuff and just being together. In 12 more days he will be permanently here in Tennessee - very excited as new challenges develop as we try to be a family together again!

I have receive LOTS of wonderful mail though. . . .

I received 2 months of my towel swaps! May's was from Betsy in Ohio and she did such cutie little birdies:

Then from Michele in Canada (owner of Quilting Gallery website), send her June towels:

I LOVE THEM all! I get to change my towels soo much more often now that I have such a beautiful selection!
It's my turn again, so I'm in the process of making July's towels now - hope to show them off soon!

Manic Monday for June!

2011-06-06T17:21:00.000-04:00

Welcome to another Manic Monday Offering! WHEW- - -just in the nick of time!

Here's the general rules - easy!

First Monday every month, I'll have a Manic Monday Offering.
Winners are picked and posted by following Monday morning.
I will take entries for the entire week and you can entry once daily (so up to 7 entries per reader) during that time frame.
I will use random.org to pick the number of comment.
I MUST be able to reply to your comment, if I see "no-reply blogger", I'll delete your comment.
I will email the winner.
International participants welcome.
PLEASE promote if you so desire :)

Now for this month's offering:

5" Batik Charms - 24

This month I have TWO offerings! Each have 24- 5" charms of Batiks! How fun is that!! They are a great variety to start you next batik charm quilt! So, definitely remember to get all your entries in this week!

Bonus entry - - if you have put my Quilting Pirate Button on your blog, make a separate comment mentioning that!

Come back next Monday, to see the winners!

Doing a Little Twisting

2011-05-27T06:00:00.008-04:00

I'm ready for this weekend...the pool opens which mean, kids are outside and I have inside time with my machine!! WHOO HOO!!

Have you seen this notion:

Well, I decide to try it out and make a example of the technique for the shop. Let me say I was very impressed!

All you do is sew 5" charms together, add a 3" border around your charms:

Then, you take the little square using the lines and match up to the seam lines on your "sudo" top:

And cut out all the squares:

Resew the new squares in the same order and you get the tessellating effect:

Finished top:

I think using Kaffe Fasset fabric doesn't have a good design element for this project because they are small. I think fabric with more solid colors - verses multi-color will show the pinwheels.

Now I just followed the pattern that came with the notion, but you can easily make this larger and make a baby size quilt. They also have a larger Twister avaiable for layer cakes - which I'm considering purchasing.

I'm planning a project with this new technique in mind and can't wait to share it!

Thursday Stuff. . .

2011-05-26T07:49:00.000-04:00

I've been sewing a bit, but haven't find the time to share...so, I'm going to do a some pre-posting to catch you up with all the pretties. . .

I got some wonderful blocks in the mail from Ms. Barb for my favorite things quilt (thank you again Barb):

I need to work on a few new blocks this weekend!

As you saw my post yesterday, been sewing a Kaffe Fasset quilt for the shop. I've never done diamonds before, let me say - I most likely won't ever again! I also did another small sample with his fabrics with a new notion - - I'll show that tomorrow.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T11:03:00.000-04:00

Friday Five

2011-05-20T11:11:00.000-04:00

Feel free to play along and share you answers in the comments or in your own blog.

This week's theme for Friday Five is You:

Ms. Lacy awarded me with this cute button - thank you Lacy! One of the desire requirements is to share 7 things about yourself . . .well, I think 5 will work just nicely. Here are the rest of the guidelines:

Thanks the person who gave you the award.
Share 7 (or 5) things about yourself.
Give this award to several newly discovered bloggers (see my suggestions below my answers).

1. I just took both of my kids to a mid-night showing of Pirates of the Caribbean - I'm cool like that (ok, it was more for me, but they really enjoyed the movie and the time together).
2. I am left-handed.
3. I have worked as/in a telecommunication equipment repairer, a medical assistant, day care provider, service call center, an account payable, Tupperware consultant, Partylite consultant, inside sales, administrative assistant, instructor, webmaster, and mom.
4. I have mini wall poster of Will Turner on the back of my bedroom door --thanks to my kids.
5. I love my gray hair!

A few of favorite bloggers - not necessarily new ones, but good ones none the less. And I pass this award on to each of them.

1. Gary Rupert's Blog - great thinking posts every morning.
2. Just About Cindy
3. Quilting Fiesta
4. Stray Stitches
5. Threaded Mess
6. A Left-Handed Quilter
7. Crafty Musings
8. The Quilty Home

One Quilt Along Down and a NEW ONE!

2011-05-18T11:23:00.000-04:00

Finally!!

I finished something...sorta - I'm piecing the blocks into a combine top today, but I have all 18 blocks (9 blocks for each color way) done! I've decided to make 2 more and piece into one top....I prefer lap size quilts. Hoping to have this finished to show at my guild meeting on Saturday!

Now that P2 Quilt Along is finished, look what Natalie has started. . . . another Quilt Along! Check out her blog for all the details, first part was just posted regarding fabric requirements, sewing starts next week!

I've gathered my fabrics together using some hand dyes - I think I'll have to add some more bright ones in the mix, but I'm already for next week!

Now to work on some other BOM's I'm way behind in!

Manic Mondays!

2011-05-16T06:22:00.000-04:00

Let's see who the lucky winner is of this month's Manic Monday Offering is:

That would be Ms. Cindy! Congrats! I've sent you an email!

Now, on to what's new. I've decided not to do Monday Milestones today, because well, I haven't been keeping up with them for over a month now. I think it's because it's spring and I just been so distracted and busy in other directions.

I did do some sewing this weekend - a few things to mark off my "to do" list and plan to share them this week.

I made my first zipper pouch. It's for a swap we'll be doing at our guild meeting this weekend.

I also got started on my "Favorite Things" quilt. Cindy and Betsy are doing this as well and I joined along. The top 2 blocks Cindy sent me (perfect for me aren't they). The Celtic moon is from my favorite pair of jeans that are too big and so cut them up and plan to use some of the denim (it's really light weight) to embroider a few more blocks. I originally made that embroidery on my jeans 4 years ago. The other two blocks are extra special as you will find out later this week - but again depict more of my favorite things.

Today, I'm planning to finish my Patchwork Square Quilt Along, only 2 blocks to be done - of course they are the hardest ones!

Have a good week!

Blogger's Quilt Festival Spring 2011

2011-05-13T06:00:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again for another Blogger's Quilt Festival. I'm so glad that other bloggers post info before hand, so I remember this time to prep a post!

Here's my entry for this festival:

Spinning Sunflowers

Size: 68" x 82"
Finished Date: Started in Aug 2008, finished Feb 2009
Pattern/Design: Tradewinds by Cozy Quilt Designs, modified
Fabric: 1 Bali Pop - Butterscotch, 9 extra 2.5" strips from my stash to finish the bottom rows of pinwheels. Background, border, and backing are all Hoffman batiks.
Quilted By: Penny Bacastow, Charles Town, WV

The Quilt Story:
I started this quilt to create a sample for Patches Quilting in 2008. I love Bali Pops and after this quilt, I have ended up with 4 more quilts made with them (and I have 2 more in the works). The original design was free with a purchase of Bali Pops and I modified it to have the bottom row be complete pinwheels. I have also taught this class recently as a Friday Pizza Party at Gina's Bernina Sewing Center. We use this quilt often and it's currently on our couch.

More images:

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

If you would like to see my previous entry in the Fall 2009 Blogger's Quilt Festival, click on the button.

Thanks for visiting!

Manic Mondays!

2011-05-09T16:47:00.000-04:00

Welcome to another Manic Monday Offering!

I'm sorry I completely forgot this last week - next month's I'll remember to pre-post!

Here's the general rules - easy!

First Monday every month, I'll have a Manic Monday Offering.
Winners are picked and posted by following Monday morning.
I will take entries for the entire week and you can entry once daily (so up to 7 entries per reader) during that time frame.
I will use random.org to pick the number of comment.
I MUST be able to reply to your comment, if I see "no-reply blogger", I'll delete your comment.
I will email the winner.
International participants welcome.

Now for this month's offering:

A little wall hanging kit called Crows' Autumn Frost. It's finished size is 8 1/4" x 14". Has all the fabric in it for the backing and binding as well. Great to do quilt as you go method with the appliqué part.

It's just another thing I have sitting here for a long time, that I know in reality will never get done - though I do love it.

Bonus entry for this week - - if you have put my Quilting Pirate Button on your blog, make a separate comment mentioning that! Thanks!

So, leave your comments and find out if you are the lucky winner next week!

I will select a winner, next Monday, May 16th.

Friday Five

2011-05-06T05:50:00.000-04:00

Feel free to play along and share you answers in the comments or in your own blog.

This week's theme for Friday Five is Sewing Machines:

1. How many sewing machines do you have?

2. Which machine is your "regular-go to" machine?

3. Do you own a specialty machine (serger, embroidery, longarm)?

4. Have you inherited a sewing machine?

5. If you could upgrade your "go-to" machine, no price limit, what would you upgrade to?

My Answers:

1. Currently, 4.

2. My Husqvarna 870 Quilt.

3. Yes,serger and embroidery machine.

4. Yes, my grandmothers Bernina, that my great aunt purchase 1 year before I was born.

5. Well, my next machine will be a long arm by year's end - but if I purchase another sewing machine it would be a Bernina 830.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T09:26:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Tip!

2011-05-03T06:00:00.016-04:00

This week's tip is actually about blogging. I so enjoy taking some creative direction with the look of my blog. I don't have the time to actually make/design my backgrounds, but love surfing various "free" sites to find the perfect background for my current mood.

As you see I've updated my current background to reflect the ocean. I'm in a piratical mood but you know it's impossible to find that kinda of background.

So, how often to change your blog around (I seem to do it monthly). Do you have a favorite spot to find backgrounds? Well, here's a list of sites for you to surf to update you blog: (I found most of this links from Simply Blog It Backgrounds)

Abstract in Back

Allie Brown's Layouts

Butterflygirlms Blog Designs

Dotty Dot Dot Backgrounds

Hot Bliggity Blog

Ivy's Free Blog Backgrounds

Izzie Grace Blog Backgrounds

Kindra's Blogging Designs

Layla Kay Designs

Mimi Nicole Blog Backgrounds

Quick and Easy Way to a Scrapbooked Background

Simply Blog It Backgrounds

Simply Chic Blog Backgrounds

The Background Fairy

The Cutest Blog on the Block

The Hobby Barrel Blog

If you don't know how to change your layout (Blogger), here's some step by step (every site has directions, but I picked just one): http://hotbliggityblog.com/help/instructions

Where do you normally go to update your blog? Have you seen a piratical background that might fit my blog?

Also, if you are so inclined, I've created a button for my blog - notice it on the right side bar, use that box to copy and paste the coding into a HTML/Java Widget on your blog.

Monday Milestones

2011-05-02T06:00:00.001-04:00

1. Patchwork Square Quilt Along. Sorta, the blocks were posted way late and I have them cut and ready to sew this morning.

2. Block of the Months. All cut, ready to sew.

3. Clean Sewing area. Done!

4. Mystery Quilt. Not touched.

Not a good week for sewing. It was filled with a lot of preparations with my girls - one went on a weekend trip for school, the other prom - so I didn't get much sewing in at all :(

1. Patchwork 2 Quilt Along.
2. Mystery Quilt.
3. Block of Months.
4. New Class Sample.

Grateful Sunday Thoughts

2011-05-01T06:00:00.004-04:00

This week's Grateful Thoughts are all about my husband. Today is our 24th Anniversary. 24 years! WoW. It's amazing to think of spending so much time with one person for so long that it's hard to think of when we weren't together.

1987 - 2011 (well taken in Dec 10 - close enough :))

Things I'm Grateful for this week:

1. My husband. His strength, his willing to financially support his family, his tenderness and his smile.
2. Our marriage. All the trials, pain, sadness, happy times, successful adventures and the continuing growth of our relationship.
3. Four kids that came out of our marriage. Being parents, making many mistakes but seeing our kids raise and be successful in their own lives.
4. Flowers from my husband (who hasn't ever sent me flowers before to my work place):

Friday Five

2011-04-29T06:00:00.004-04:00

I haven't done Friday Fives in many years and rediscovered them as I was printing my blog2print last week and I think it's time to try them again. Feel free to play along and share you answers in the comments or in your own blog.

This week's theme for Friday Five is Quilting in General:

1. What is your favorite quilting technique?

2. What is your least favorite?

3. What is your favorite genre of fabric?

4. What is your least favorite?

5. Who is your favorite quilting personality?

My Answers:

1. Straight chain piecing. As long as I'm set up I can speed piece and continually sew. I always feel more accomplished with I'm chain piecing.

2. I don't have a "least" favorite, but if there is one technique I don't like the look of is raw edge appliqué.

3. Batiks. Love how they look, feel, sew nicely and don't need to worry about too many winkles.

4. Mmmm...civil war and 30's reproductions.

5. I have several favorites, but the 2 at the top are Mark Lipinski and Pat Sloan.

Thursday Stuff. . .

2011-04-28T06:13:00.000-04:00

I really have boring subject titles, don't I? I just don't think to brightly at 5 am some morning.

Just a quickie give-away I wanted to share because it's a good one in my opinion, free pizza stone! 100 Days of Real Food

I've been sewing, got inspired at JC Penny's last night when I saw these:

I love the green and the purple in these and finally started a project I've been working up to for over a year now. I visited thrift stores last summer and purchased several pairs of plaid colored shorts. So, I pulled out a set and started a proto-type sample. . . . I'm not ready to share all the details yet, but I've very excited with what I'm working with! Just have some fine tuning.

I started to play with this technique yesterday as well (thanks to Ms. Cindy): 3 Seam 10 Minute Block. I'm making a smaller block (cutting blocks at 7 1/2") using stash fabric and using a setting of 4 x 5 for a quilt top. Should whip up pretty quick.

We were very lucky here in Oak Ridge, TN last night....Knoxville had a lot of hail damage and other wind issues from the storms here. Going to be an interesting day to see the aftermath.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T06:00:00.002-04:00

Tuesday Ramblings. . .

2011-04-26T06:46:00.000-04:00

No tips for today - I think I'll just start doing that once a month. I have other things to share.

First the winner of my birthday drawing is:

The lucky winner is: Sallie. Sallie, I've emailed you so I can get this little package out to you!

THANK YOU for all my birthday wishes!! I had a wonderful weekend in Florida. It was perfect. Long car drive with a dear friend spent talking and catching up on life, a night on the town in Key West, being hit on by a 20 something year old (yah, he was a bit intoxicated), and having sushi at 10pm on Saturday! Just a wonderful weekend to come home to spending a beautiful Sunday afternoon with my hubby. Here's a few pictures from my weekend:

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Now some more sewing from last week. I've designed the Shop Hop Block for Gina's and then finished it up with a small setting for a table topper. We'll make kits of these to sell during the annual East Tennessee Shop Hop that goes from June 2nd - 11th.

A lot going on this week . . .girls both have BIG weekends coming up, including Senior Prom, so there will be last minute shopping and planning and little sewing I think - we'll see.

Monday Milestones

2011-04-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

1. Goose Tracks, 2 months worth (meaning about 8 blocks, each takes about an hour to make). DONE. I got 10 - only 12 more to go, plus the borders.

2. BOMs - 12 Days of Christmas, Tonga Batik. Busted - not done.

3. Mystery Quilt for MAQ. Worked on this, but still need to catch up to the current clue.

4. Embroidered T-shirts. DONE.

5. Future Class Planning. Some, need to work on this some more.

1. Patchwork Square Quilt Along
2. Block of the Months.
3. Clean Sewing area.
4. Mystery Quilt.

I will draw a winner for my "quickie give away" later this afternoon. Stay tuned!

Happy Earth Day, Happy Good Friday, Happy Birthday!

2011-04-22T06:00:00.013-04:00

WOW, I get to celebrate all sorts of stuff this weekend - it's not too often Easter weekend falls on my birthday, but it has been known to happen!

Well, I'll be on a jet plane shortly heading south to enjoy 48 hours away from my live here in TN. Hubby is coming up to spend daddy time with the girls, while mommy is spending time in Key West!

In celebration of my birthday, let's do a quickie give away.....are you game? Just leave a comment sometime over the weekend and I'll draw a random number on Monday morning for a lucky winner. Now, what do I have in the "give away" pile . . . . . .mmm, I have a pattern, some fabric, and who knows what else....you'll have to wait see it on Monday!

Enjoy your weekend and celebrate your family. I'll have a drink for you in Margaritaville!

Hoopsisters!

2011-04-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

As host Month 3 of Hoopsisters at Gina's Bernina today, here's an update on the blocks I've finished so far. Unfortunately my poor embroidery machine has been in the shop several weeks and I haven't been able to get further - - and to top it off it's still not fixed. Le sigh. The next step would be to mail it out to the company which means 3-5 weeks gone :( so, I'll make do slowly I guess. I have 19 out of 36 blocks done:

And here's my next 2 (4 total) blocks in the Patchwork Square Quilt Along - Week 4:

All my blocks together:

Yep, a lot of sewing going on this week.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

Tuesday Tips!

2011-04-19T06:00:00.010-04:00

It's Tuesday again!

This week's tip is a couple of my favorite notions as I have been using them over the weekend.

1. Thangles! I only use them if my half-square triangles are smaller than 3", anything larger I use the traditional way of adding the 7/8"(though I add an 1" and just square down). When I do use Thangles another tip I do is actually sew off the dashed line, closer to the center cutting line. Then I square my HST down to the accurate size. I never assume my HST are accurate unless I square them down.

2. Quilt In A Day Flying Geese Ruler Technique and Deb Tucker's Wing Clipper Ruler together to make Flying Geese! Well, first let me say, I LOVE Eleanor Burns tools. I use to dislike making Flying Geese with a passion until I used her sets of FG rulers. I own EVERY one! There are 5 sets, at ~$16 each. Lots of moola. As I was teaching a class this past winter, I finally tested out Deb's Wing Clipper (and I already love Deb's other rulers - but didn't want to spend more money on another notion, when I had so many FG rulers already). It works wonderfully! I do like using the Quilt in A Day Ruler Directions though. It allows you to make a bigger goose to trim down. So, I recommend visiting QIAD web sites free patterns and find their directions to make the goose part (it will make 4) and use Deb's ruler to cut to size. Does that make sense? If not just ask - I'll try to explain better. Point it is, less money and perfect geeses every time!

What is your tip for this week?

Monday Mile Stones

2011-04-18T06:00:00.001-04:00

Join Kim (A Peach In Stitches) with her weekly goals. She has a a Mr. Linky on her blog if you wish to share your goals and work through them weekly. I borrowed her beautiful graphics as well, thanks Kim!

Well, I don't have any from last week - that was easy :)

1. Goose Tracks, 2 months worth (meaning about 8 blocks, each takes about an hour to make).
2. BOMs - 12 Days of Christmas, Tonga Batik
3. Mystery Quilt for MAQ.
4. Embroidered T-shirts.
5. Future Class Planning.

Grateful Sunday Thoughts

2011-04-17T10:37:00.000-04:00

This past week has just been painful in many ways. The more I think about it, the past 4 - 5 weeks have been as well. I feel I got "lost" somewhere and have given up my control to the wind, flowing along aimlessly and wondering around lost. I don't like that feeling. I end up being resentful and angry all the time.

So, starting this week off with a peaceful mind and pondering the things I am grateful for and re-centering myself in my own universe:

1. Knowing I can find time for just me. Alone. I treasure every second, minute - whether it be in the car on the way to work or before my kids get up in the morning.
2. Enjoyment in simple things. Hot coffee, a everything bagel with cream cheese, power to run my sewing machines, the humming noises of my computer.
3. A paying job I enjoy. With freedoms of creativity, socializing, and sharing with others my love for quilting.
4. Interactions with human beings - family, friends, strangers each does have a positive effect on my life daily, though sometimes it might be a hard lesson to see a positive, but in the end always a positive thing.

What are you Sunday Grateful thoughts?

Patchwork Square Quilt Along, Week 3

2011-04-12T06:00:00.005-04:00

So, we are now into week 3 of this quilt along - I've never done one before and again this is a "Modern" style project, which I have never done before as well.

Last week's block was to challenge folks to find a vintage quilt block and adapt it to our modern colors. I found 2 that I enjoyed making and feel they both are now "perfectly" modern for this quilt top:

First for my Turquoise/Lime layout out I picked a traditional Ohio Star with a square in a square center:

And for my Purple/Lime combo, I picked my favorite hand patten a hexagon, using a strip technique I saw in a pattern that I've wanted to try and again made this traditional pattern "modern" (this was taken before I appliquéd it down:

Now for Week 3 - this week's. I followed along and here are my finished blocks:

Turquoise/Lime:

Purple/Lime:

These were quick and easy, I'm a bit nervous about what is coming up though.

The Winner of Manic Monday for April

2011-04-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

The lucky winner is Ms. Kitty (a fellow lefty). Kitty, I'll send you an email!

Watch for next month's Manic Monday on May 2nd!

I hope to post some pictures this week, I have done some sewing, just been so busy with other things!

Manic Mondays!

2011-04-04T17:22:00.000-04:00

It's officially Spring and what a great way to celebrate Spring with a April Manic Monday Offering!

Here's the general rules - easy!

First Monday every month, I'll have a Manic Monday Offering.
Winners are picked and posted by following Monday morning.
I will take entries for the entire week and you can entry once daily (so up to 7 entries per reader) during that time frame.
I will use random.org to pick the number of comment.
I MUST be able to reply to your comment, if I see "no-reply blogger", I'll delete your comment.
I will email the winner.
International participants welcome.

Now for this April's offering:

The Hobo Bag by Indigo Junction and ~20 5" novelty charm squares.

So, start leaving your comments and a lucky winner will be picked in one week!

Happy Spring!

Ongoing stuff!

2011-03-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

Have you seen this new Quilt Along?

Well, I have and I've decided to work outside my box a little and play along. I picked up 2 different color ways and figured I would just back one quilt top with the other in the end. We'll see how that works. This is very "mod" and not in my quilting portfillo - yet. I've seen other "modern" style fabrics and designs that I'm curious to do, but haven't crack that egg yet to jump into! So, I think this is the perfect way to "test" the waters out - sorta speak.

Here are my colors, purple and chartreuse and turquoise and chartreuse (I love the green of course - it was brighter than the lime):

I'm also using a lighter grey and the pepper black for the remaining 2 colors.

I spent yesterday afternoon CUTTING! I mean lots of cutting! My feet hurt from standing and ironing and cutting. Did I mention I did a lot of cutting yesterday? This doesn't even show all of it...just a mess of things:

Well, all that means is now I have A LOT of sewing to do - at least I'll be ready!!

Tuesday Tips

2011-03-29T06:07:00.000-04:00

Who's a lefty out there? Raise your left hand please! ME! ME!

Well, I'm in the process of developing a left handed series class for just us! It started when I was in Maryland and asked one of our regular instructors to develop it there - well, it needs to be done in Tennessee as well!

As I was researching the internet I came across this great resource - a blog, no less - called "A Left Handed Quilter".

She has great directions and advice for lefties. Please check her out.

So, what is my tip for this week. Just for lefties. As you go into a class that has a definite righthand or lefthand way of doing something (say, rotary cutting or hand work) find a way to sit directly across from the instructor. This allows you to "mirror" them and able your to visualize your technique in a more effective way for lefties.

Another long weekend. . .

2011-03-28T11:44:00.000-04:00

I love it when my husband comes and stays a long weekend. Though I never get any sewing or cleaning done in the apartment, we do a lot in other areas.

We did take a road trip around a mountain - not intending to, but at least we were able to enjoy it. I also spotted a Quilt Block on a building in Oliver Springs as part of the Quilt Trail in Tennessee. Funny thing is this block is only a few miles up the road from me:

This block is so new (2010), I can't even find information on it!

I can't wait for him to finally be down in Tennessee. The job search is the only thing left for him to get secured!

Last week I did some teaching and some pizza partying. Watch my other blog for details. I also received a wonderful Easter towel from Barb last week as part of one of my towel swaps! Isn't he so cute! I love him!

Hoping this week goes smoothly as I do have a few classes and a lot of cleaning up to do. Just hope the warmer temperatures return.

Postless. . .

2011-03-24T07:08:00.003-04:00

When I'm gone away from blogging for a more than a week, there are a few things reasons why:
1. Not been sewing?
2. Depression?
3. Family obligations?
4. SPRING cleaning!!

So, I have done a very limited amount of sewing and a lot more spring cleaning in the past few weeks! I did get my Jewels of the Crown done. . . but it's too big because I actually pieced it verses doing paper piecing like I did for the other blocks. So, I have to paper piece all the blocks due to the resizing of the pattern when I print it - don't know why it does that, but if all the blocks are ending up the same size that is what matters:

And I visited a local quilt show over the past weekend with some new friends. They were (are) my first class and we all have "kinda" bonded. The quilts were incredible for a guild style show. Wish there was more vendors, but all in all we had a good time! Can you guess which quilt is my favorite?

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.e>
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

I hope to get more sewing in sometime soon.....but now gardening has to share some of my spare time as well.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T07:08:00.000-04:00

It's Tuesday!

2011-03-15T07:41:00.000-04:00

And with that brings more painting in new house and more sewing!

I got a little sewing done over the weekend - some cute pot holders for the shop - I have never made one before and it was a new thing to bind a circle - easy, except for making it a continuous binding. As I tell my students I'm still a newbie - always learning. I'm very tickled how these turned out though. The pattern is in the latest Quilt Magazine with a few free patterns with the fabric on their site (and lots of other free patterns):

I use to be an avid QNN.com watcher, but once they started charging yearly fees, I stopped. One of my first and neatest notions I purchased based off of one of the early videos was this Brandy 9" Circle Template and the Brooklyn Revolver Rotary Mat on one side and a ironing mat on the other. I don't use this too often, but I'm grateful that I own it to use it when I do need it:

I also received my Autumn Swap gift from Heidi, it's a wonderful tote and a zipper pouch - I LOVE them both! And they are in use already!

More pictures later this week.

Happy Pi Day!

2011-03-14T06:46:00.000-04:00

As my kids keep reminding me. So what pi are you having tonight for dessert? I think we are going with a Hershey Chocolate Cream Pi.

Let's find us a winner of last week's Manic Monday Offerings, shall we?

First, WOW - 59 comments! How fun is that! Using random.org, the winning comment number is . . . . .

14! So, Natasha congrats! I'll be emailing you shortly!

Thank you to everyone who left a comment! Be sure to be here again next month, April 4th to see what I plan to give away!

I'll post some Monday Milestones later today, I have some sewing to share as well this week.

I've done some sewing!

2011-03-10T06:00:00.009-05:00

Coming out of the winter blues is refreshing and humbling when you realize (so it seems) you left so many things unattended - mainly yourself.

Now with spring around the corner and our move into a new home, things are busy again with cleaning and planning a garden. Very exciting. I've even started a new blog just for that experience. Our Journey into Suburbia Homesteading.

I know over the next few weeks, my life will be dedicate to shaping up a house we are planning to rent, but I also still have classes going on and need to sew for them. So, please be patient with my posts here :)

I've worked on several Block of the Month programs (and will join another one on March 24th). And also my Let's Be Together block was well received from its new owner:

My Tonga Back to Nature BOM (last regular block March's should be the medallion in the center):

And my 12 Days of Christmas:

New class to teach tonight, should be fun:

Next goal is to get my Jewels in the Crown BOM done for March.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Manic Monday Offering for March!

2011-03-07T12:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to another Manic Monday Offering!

Here's the general rules - easy!

First Monday every month, I'll have a Manic Monday Offering.
Winners are picked and posted by following Monday morning.
I will take entries for the entire week and you can entry once daily (so up to 7 entries per reader) during that time frame.
I will use random.org to pick the number of comment.
I MUST be able to reply to your comment, if I see "no-reply blogger", I'll delete your comment.
I will email the winner.
International participants welcome.

Now for this month's offering:

I've have left over "Love Bug" charms from when I cut my projects for my girls last month and itching to pass them on. There are 5 different fabrics and about 40 squares....all 5". Along with the charms I have a pattern I not longer need called "Roll Out The Charm" by From the Nest Designs.

I will select a winner, next Monday, March 14th.

May the luck of the Irish be with you!

Monday Milestones

2011-02-28T07:31:00.000-05:00

I've fallen off the wagon! So, back on I go and pre-posting this week's posts. I feel a bit dis-connected with my blogland friends - I'm sorry, but I'll catch up with each of you this week :)

If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

Ok, these are from 2 weeks ago...behind the times.....
1. Once A Season Swap - finish and mailed!
2. Finish several mug rugs I have for various swaps. - Done, mailed.
3. Class samples for upcoming spring/summer classes. Planned out and updated my TLC's Quilt Studio blog with lots of information. Very excited about that!

1. Sew more Hoopsisters (first 2 sessions of classes, went pretty well)
2. Let's Be Together Block for March
3. Make sample for Series for Lefties class
4. Work on Color Journal for class sample
5. Tonga & 12 Days of Christmas Block of Months for Feb

Next week will be another Manic Monday!!

Where did last week go?

2011-02-24T07:04:00.000-05:00

Dunno, I know it happened but it was done in slow motion and non-stop action. I was teaching classes from Thursday through Friday evening. Hubby came somewhere in there and spent a super long weekend with us. We had a passing in the family and attended a couple events for them - very sad. Looked at a house. Celebrated a late valentine date. And just basically held on to my hubby as long as I could before he left on Monday morning. Meaning, wasn't near the computer for about 5 days. Priorities, ya know?

When hubby is in town and when I do a lot of classes, I take a long blog hiatus. Which means I do have a lot to share and catch up - - somehow. :)

First, let's start off with goodies in the mail -from Sandi in Minnesota. She was my partner in the Mug Rug Swap and I got her wonderful package earlier this week:

She said she was inspired by my blog for one mug rug (obviously) and the other was inspired by my post regarding the Knoxville Modern Quilt Guild. I love the entire package and both mug rugs are being used right now! One sits by my computer and the other is sitting beside my sewing machine! Thank you again Sandi!

I finished up my mug rugs and they are on their way to their new home. . . .

Been busy sewing here and there and almost finished this little runner. . . it's going out tomorrow for the Seasonal Swap. It's new home is a regular reader, is it coming to you?

So much to catch up on.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-23T06:33:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T06:00:00.010-05:00

Toni's Tuesday Tip

2011-02-15T06:00:00.031-05:00

Triple T for short :) Since I've been instructing again, I get a lot of questions on how to do various techniques and other short cuts. So, I figured it was time to share it with everyone.

My goal is every Tuesday, share one of my favorite tips. Now I'm not going to tell you it is the only or bestest way to do something, but just how I do it. I also invited anyone to try something once and see if it "fits" with your style of sewing/quilting. If it does - bonus, if not no worries. But you'll never know or learn something new if you don't try it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This week tip/question: "When shopping how much fabric do you purchase?"

This question came from one of my students and I have been asked this several times.

I look at fabric in 3 caterogies when I purchase. Being most fabric is purchase on spontaneous window shopping - I keep these things in mind:

Blendables/Tonals/Tone on Tones - These fabrics I'll purchase from a fat quarter up to 1 yard - depending a lot on price (sale fabric I'll easily get a yard). These are great fillers for quilts, swap projects, applique work. A nice rounded stash of ALL colors in blendables is a good thing to have.
Backgrounds - fabric has the perfect feel for a background, creams with small prints, whites with polka dots, etc. easily purchase 3 yards. If you look at any pattern up to a twin size, you will tend to need 3 yards just for background fabric.
The Most Perfect Gorgeous Print EVER - So, you just spied your most perfect gorgeous print you have ever seen and you HAVE to have it ---now why would you get a fat quarter? The reality of ever being able to use it into a nice project won't happen at a 18" x 22" piece. I will get 3 - 5 yards. Fabrics that scream to be purchase I use normally for borders.

I rarely pre-purchase enough fabric for backings. Now if a shop has a good sale and I find that most perfect fabric for a backing, then I'll get 5 - 7 yards.

I also rarely purchase fat quarters anymore - I prefer 1/2 yard pieces. The fact is I've been there done that and not happy with a workable stash. While I am a fabric collector, I want to be able to have a usable stash. Most of my fat quarters are blenderables or seasonal fabrics.

I have learned over the past 3 year to purchase good backgrounds as i see them (they never see to be around when you need/want them) and of course I am a batik collector - so I do purchase batiks by 3 yards pieces.

I do have a smaller stash then I have had in the past, but my stash is very workable within my normal color preferences.

Another thing to consider when just randomly purchasing fabrics, think of the balance of tones in your stash. We all tend to be drawn to medium tones - be sure to pick up some dark and light tones are you build your stash.

What are your fabric purchasing preferences?
(fyi, images are from my old stash - I need to take some current images :))

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I know everyone has great tips and helpful techniques - if you would like to join along with your own Tuesday Tip (I'll work on making a button for you to use) just add your link here with Mr. Linky:

Monday Milestones

2011-02-14T16:00:00.004-05:00

If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

1. Pre-post entire week's of blog posts! - Done. Totally successful, now to keep it up and do the same with my TLC's Quilt Studio Blog. It's soo much easier.
2. Goose Tracks - Nodda. My embroidery machine is going to the shop :( But class is this Thursday night!
3. Once A Season Swap project - started, not finished
4. Stay At Home Round Robin - nope
5. Stars in the Garden (I'm a few months behind) - nope

This past week I was kinda focused on other things, like working for Theresa and getting organized to make tops for her. I also took part in the Knoxville Modern Quilt Guild on Saturday - which I truly enjoyed and will continue to attend meetings and participate in various projects.

1. Once A Season Swap - finish and mail tomorrow!
2. Finish several mug rugs I have for various swaps.
3. Class samples for upcoming spring/summer classes. It's a never ending thing.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T06:00:00.006-05:00

I'm sure the only reason you are reading my post this morning to see if YOU are the lucky winner....well, maybe?
Let's see what the random.org number is. . . . . 11

So, the lucky winner of this great little apron:

is . . . Kathy H. I don't see she has a blog, but I'll be emailing you this morning to get your info and pop this gift into the mail. I hope you enjoy it (and send me a picture of you wearing it, please?).

Thanks to everyone who commented. Come back next month, March 7th for another Manic Monday Offering!

I'm Grateful For. . .

2011-02-13T06:00:00.010-05:00

Silence

This last week I was sewing with no kids, no tv, no radio - just the droning sound of my sewing machine and the crackling sound of steam coming from my iron and realized, I really liked it.

I extended the experienment a little further this week by driving my 25 minute work commute with no radio on. It really allowed me to listen more to the outside noises and listen to the inside voice. I have such a beautiful drive going souhth towards Knoxville seeing the mountains and the sunrise and returning home seeeing more mountains around Oak Ridge, it made me realize to enjoy the silience and listen to the things that aren't audible.

I think with all the moving and stress I go through acting as a single parent, I have a hard time finding "quiet" me time. I'm glad I'm able to find it, savor it and appreciate it.

TGIF!

2011-02-11T06:14:00.002-05:00

Recap of my teases earlier this week.

For Tamera, her block from "Let's Be Together":

And towels are arriving to new homes. I wasn't prepared as I had hope with this swap. I've already started making my July towels as I'll be doing them by hand. My poor embroidery machine is in the shop after these. I made 12, mailed 10 to the swappers in the group and 2 are going to some surprise recipients :) All the towels are different - kinda like snowflakes. Different fabrics, threads and towels - but all have the same design.

Tomorrow is set up for several things! First, are you participating in "Christmas Quilt Along":

And tomorrow, I'm also going to visit for the first time the Modern Knoxville Guild:

Going to have a fun filled packed weekend!

Jewels in the Crown BOM

2011-02-10T06:00:00.005-05:00

Is anyone else doing this free Block of the Month program? You can start now, it's only 2 months in and the blocks only stay up for 2 months at a time.

I've got a large selection of batiks - but they are in small pieces, most are about the size of a fat eighth - perfect for this project.

And now you see where my "Wordless Wednesday" came from :)

I finished up February's block over the weekend and I'm having fun with color and texture.

This is both of my blocks together:

I need to pull some of my larger pieces of batiks (I have several 3+yards pieces) to see if I can work them into the many borders for the finishing part of this top. I think this quilt is going to be very stunning! I love batiks!

Don't forget to do your daily entry for my Manic Monday Offering!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

New Project

2011-02-08T06:00:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I saw this pattern by Lizzie Be Cre8ive Designs at Gina's. So, I picked it up thinking this would be a perfect hand work piece - simple and fun.

It's called Piece, Love & Applique. The hardest challenge I have found is picking the fabrics for the feel I want. After visiting a few fabric shops and even picking out 2 different "focus" fabrics, I decided on using the tones and colors in this piece (which will be used for a few of the blocks as well):

I have all my fabrics to get started now and I piece my first section - this pattern is done by months, was a BOM program.

I'm working on the applique now and hope to finish it in the evenings over the next week.

Don't forget to do your daily entry for my Manic Monday Offering!

Manic Monday Offering!

2011-02-07T18:00:00.026-05:00

I haven't done a Manic Monday offering in years! I found my great logo that I made in my Photobucket account and thought, it's time to do it again.

Here's the general rules - easy!

First Monday every month, I'll have a Manic Monday Offering.
Winners are picked and posted by following Monday morning.
I will take entries for the entire week and you can entry once daily (so up to 7 entries) during that time frame.
I will use random.org to pick the number of comment.
I MUST be able to reply to your comment, if I see "no-reply blogger", I'll delete your comment.
I will email the winner.
International participants welcome.

Now for this month's offering, it is a seasonal item and being it's Valentine's Day in a week, I know the winner will receive this a little late, but you can definitely wear it all month long!

You all remember that bright pink apron I made for work and one for my guild meeting?

Well, I never made it to guild meeting that night, so I'm offering it up to you as a Manic Monday Offering! One size fits all! I have added a few embroidered hearts to give it the full Valentine feel!

I will select a winner, next Monday, Feb 14th.

Good luck!

Monday Milestones

2011-02-07T06:00:00.003-05:00

If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

1. Mug Rug Swap - need quilting and binding done on two. - DONE, putting in the mail today!
2. Goose Tracks - worked a little on it.
3. Ocean Tranquility Borders - DONE, ready for Eleonore in MD to quilt!
4. Cutting one UFO - don't know which, but I've got a few I can do. - DONE, picked a UFO I can use as a sample for a class!

1. Pre-post entire week's of blog posts!
2. Goose Tracks - this will be ongoing until I finish it!
3. Once A Season Swap project
4. Stay At Home Round Robin
5. Stars in the Garden (I'm a few months behind)

Be sure to check out my blog later this evening for "Manic Monday"!

I'm Grateful For. . .

2011-02-06T06:00:00.009-05:00

Weekends!

I think sometimes I do take them for granted, but this weekend was such a relief as I pondered how wonderful it was to be here again.

I look at each day individually, they each have a set value of scheduling and planning and structure Monday through Friday. Even Saturday morning with errands and house cleaning is structured. But once Saturday afternoon hits, it's all about relaxing and taking care of myself. Whether that be spending time with my family, shopping for furilous wants, sewing all day, or going out to see local scenery - I'm grateful for the weekend to take a break from structure and responsibilities of daily living.

Crazy past few weeks. . .

2011-02-05T18:18:00.002-05:00

I've slack a bit on my blogging over the past few weeks - so much going on. Hubby visited one weekend, been looking at house to rent/buy, teaching classes, been sick, created new routines. Busy, busy, busy....not to mention finishing my Ocean Bargello!

So, I'm organizing my thoughts and sewing area to get some projects done now and catch up on blogging - of course reading blogs might take me several days!!

I have of course, gotten a little more sewing in besides the bargello - not much, but a little. I finished my towels for my swap, they were simple and cute (in my opinion of course :)). Here's a tease:

I received my fabric from "Let's Be Together" swap from Ms. Tamera in ND and promptly whipped up her block...again a tease until she gets it:

Well, here's a non-teasing picture - this is going to be my backing of my Ocean Bargello - it obviously was my inspiration when this fabric line called Tranquil Moments came into Patches back in the fall of 2009.

I pulled together my fabrics to do February's Jewels in the Crown BOM last night and plan to sew it up this evening. Tomorrow is dedicated to sewing - this week will have lots of show and tell!

Be sure to visit my blog this week, I'm excited to start up my Manic Mondays again! What? You have no clue what that is? mmmmm, it will be posted at 6 pm EST on Monday!

Have a good weekend!

Monday Milestones

2011-01-31T05:33:00.000-05:00

If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

1. Towel Swap Towels - DONE, putting them into the mail (including a few bonus ones :)
2. Goose Tracks Months - Busted, didn't even touch them.
3. Ocean Tranquility - DONE, ok - the center part is DONE, just need to add borders. It is currently 92" x 94"!! It's going to be nice to hang over my bed and tuck my pillows - I'm VERY excited!!

1. Mug Rug Swap - need quilting and binding done on two.
2. Goose Tracks
3. Ocean Tranquility Borders
4. Cutting one UFO - don't know which, but I've got a few I can do.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T06:18:00.001-05:00

Monday Milestones

2011-01-24T05:10:00.001-05:00

If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

1. Aprons - need 2 made: DONE
2. Goose Tracks - months 3 - 5: got up to month 4 done.
3. Embroider towels for swap: busted will be top priority this week!
4. BOMs - 12 Days of Christmas and Tonga Back to Nature blocks: DONE
5. Cut Love Bug Quilts Out: DONE, this was on my list 2 weeks ago and I got it in this week.

1. Towel Swap Towels
2. Goose Tracks Months 4 & 5
3. Ocean Tranquility - I have all my strips cut (YAH!!), need to piece

Grateful Thoughts

2011-01-23T06:00:00.012-05:00

As I pondered this weekend, I realized I've been here in a new home for another month. I made a choice last April that involve making life changing events. In July I moved me and my girls from Maryland to Tenneessee. In the past 7 months, time has flown by but I realize I have so much to be grateful for.

♥ The strength and confidence in myself to set a plan forth and follow it through.
♥ The faith that the universe will provide my desires to fulfill all my plans/dreams.
♥ Supportive family and friends - old and new - who encourage me and love me.

It's been an amazing seven months and the future I have planned has a lot more amazing things in it! I can't wait to see it unfold.

Friday Night Sew In - Lessons Learned

2011-01-22T11:14:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm a successful failure?! :) So, here's what I learned to correct for next month's FNSI:

No tv on - or at least something I've seen a billion times, probably just music would be best.
NO KIDS. Even the 17 year old was a serious distraction, wanted "mom" time.
One project!! Have it cut and ready just to piece away.
I'm a wuss and totally tuckered out by 10:30. So, next month maybe take a longer nap after work, getting up on Fridays at 5am, working til 2, home by 3 and sewing all night really took a beating on me.

My original plan of attack was this:

Hour 1 - Make Tonga Batik BOM block
Hour 2 - Make 12 Days of Christmas Block
Hour 3 - Take a break from sewing and cut out Love Bug project
Hour 4 until I was done - Work on Ocean Tranquility Project

Well, it didn't quite go that way . . .

I spent 3 hours on one block, after ripping out several times, again I think mainly to distractions, but finally finished it:

This is basically a simple block but lots of tedious piecing techniques. Good thing I had it all cut out before hand!

I was sooo frustrated with putting this block together, mainly because I kept ripping out the same corner section and row, that I stopped at 10:30 and went to my bedroom to read and fell asleep.

Then this morning I got up and literally whipped up this block in an hour (as I had planned originally):

So, now I have 2 remaining items to work on and I'm going to go ahead and finish them up today. I have time to myself and think I can get them done.

Next month's FNSI will definitely go a different way!

Friday Night Sew In - IS HERE!

2011-01-21T18:23:00.000-05:00

Ok....

chocolate - check
salty snack (dill potato chips-looked/sounds interesting) - check
wine - check
down one child - check
sewing area cleared and cleaned - check
eating dinner - check

Start time is 7:00 pm!!
Ok...I think I'm ready!!

I've decided to work on 3 projects. First I'm going to make my two BOMs, I have already cut - the 12 Days of Christmas and the Tonga Back to Nature:

Next I'm going to cut out 2 tops using this GREAT Lovebug fabric. The girls each want one:

Lastly, I'm going to FINISH my Ocean Tranquility Bargello center - don't know if I'll get the borders on tonight, but definitely plan on getting the remaining third section on:

Ok, it's ON ---who's doing this with me?? :)

Happy Hump Day!

2011-01-19T06:57:00.000-05:00

Finally just hit the "Read All" button in my blog reader....I can't get 4 days behind, it's just overwhelming!

I'm going to try it again!

It is this Friday and I know exactly what I will work on. I'm going to plan a day with normalcy, than a quickie nap, chocolate, chips, wine and movie for kids - then I plan to sew all night long on one project! I have to get it finished - what you are thinking? You'll see!!! Are you going to play along?

I received my February towel from my first towel swap from Ms. Betsy! I am in love with the towel she used!! It's heavy, think, and a woven weave---very nice. I'm getting these for the second month I'm dedicated to for my towel swap.

And she made something extra (she is sooo generous) called a scissor mat (and Tijeras means scissors in spanish).

Now, I haven't done any sewing since yesterday morning, but I've been cutting out my BOMs to work on them today:

Wednesday, might be my day off, but it's the only day I can run errands - so, I'll be errand running today then finding time to sew for me (not work) this afternoon!

Back to Work!

2011-01-18T07:56:00.000-05:00

Well, yesterday was a flurry of phone calls, emails, class updates, sewing, and cleaning!

I was able to finish up 2 aprons - one for our guild meeting tonight. We missed our December meeting and we were suppose to do an apron swap game (verses doing an ornament). So, I had enough fabric to make 2 valentine colored (could be used for Christmas) aprons. The other one is for me at work - I think it's time to put away my Christmas one :)

And did 2 more blocks for the Goose Tracks, my poor machine so needs a tune up - it doesn't like doing more than one at a time. This is 2 months worth of blocks, will start Month 3 later today:

I have a lot to do at the shop today, cutting more kits and prepping more classes!

Have a good day!

Monday Milestones

2011-01-17T18:00:00.002-05:00

I've decided to post these later in the afternoon as I evaluate my weekly goals and accomplishments. If you wish to do your own Monday Milestones, be sure to visit Kim (A Peach In Stitches) and put your link on her post!

1. Get at least 3 months worth of Goose Tracks complete for "Meet The Teacher's Day" on Saturday. - Well, I have 2 months done, so I consider this goal a success. I have to keep plugging away at this sample, the class starts late February and I really want the sample to be done the week before - but it is very time consuming!
2. Finish Quilting Basics 102 sample done by Saturday. -WOOHOO done...decided not to quilt it at this time, being it's a sample for a class I'm doing and they won't finish it in class.
3. Finish up Pay it Forward projects - hoping to stock pile a few of these to offer a PIF post every month. WOOHOO another done. They are packaged and going into the mailboxes tomorrow!
4. Make my new apron for work. -- nope, working on that today and another one for guild tomorrow night.
5. Cut out Love Bug quilts. - mmm, nope didn't even look at these.

1. Aprons - need 2 made, one for work and one for guild meeting.
2. Goose Tracks - months 3 - 5.
3. Embroider towels for swap.
4. BOMs - 12 Days of Christmas and Tonga Back to Nature blocks

Happy Monday Morning!

2011-01-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

Without further delay, the lucky winner of Friday's Charms is (according to Random .org) is sweet 16, who is Robin! I'll email you shortly to get your mailing info. Thanks to everyone who commented--looks like you all were busy this weekend!

I did get a bit of sewing in, time with family, football games (ugh...still not happy with the Ravens), Chinese food, Big Ed's pizza, and lots of hubby loving ....it was a very good weekend indeed!!

I do have some pictures to share.....I received my second towel from Cindy in our Towel Swap II, isn't he adorable:

I got my towels for Februarys's swap. They will be different, but I'm excited with what I have planned for the towels - that is one of my milestone goals for this week (will post those later in the day):

Then, because of the "Meet The Teachers" Event at the shop, I had to finish up another sample. I finished making a sample for my Quilting Basics 102 class:

Also, was able to squeeze in one more block for the Goose Tracks:

I think both classes are filling up! My Pizza Party class is also filling up...the event was a huge success and I got to meet a lot of "regular" customers. I normally work in the back so I don't get too see alot of faces, that is why I'm so excited to be teaching again!

I also got my BOM from the 12 Days of Christmas this weekend and my Tonga BOM....so I'll have BOMs to work on this week! Also a lot of work on the computer and more sewing for work. Glad to be at home today, going to be busy today!!

TGIF!

2011-01-14T07:41:00.000-05:00

I'm glad it's Friday and hubby has arrived!! :) It will be a wonderful weekend!

Thank you for all your comments yesterday! (I'm in the process of responding to them) I don't have a few of you on my blog list - so out with a few blogs and in with a few new ones :) Never ending process!

Had my first Quilting Basics 101 class last night - wonderful group of ladies! I'm excited to be instructing again. It's always a pleasure building up people's confidence in they own skills and creativity! I plan to take pictures next week, because their fabric choices are great!!

I have no new pictures to share, so how about a quickie giveaway? I have these left over 5" charms from doing my Pay It Forward items....I think there is about 25. I have them in an envelope ready to go!

Just tell me your weekend plans when you leave a comment. Please don't share this giveaway, because I want it for those dedicated readers :) I'll pick a random winner Monday , 1/17th morning by 5 am EST.

My plans this weekend include "Meet The Teachers" at Gina's and spending lots of time with my hubby!!

Thursday Thoughts. . . .

2011-01-13T06:25:00.000-05:00

Do you ever weed out blogs on your blog reader? If so, how/why do you weed them out?

This is a curious thing to me because I have so many blogs to read and to choose from. I enjoy reading them all but I also enjoying the interaction each blog returns to me when I leave a comment. I like that feeling of personal connection, that it isn't a mass media ambition - but to connect at a more personal-initmate level. It isn't about how many people read you, but how you interact with the people who do? I guess I get a little disappointed when I leave comments daily in some blogs without any acknowledgment. I will admit I'm slow to respond to my comments but I make efforts to do so, some bloggers don't. I know it is their choice to limit their interaction with their audience, but I think my choice is not to put so much effort into connecting with them. So, I'm cleaning out my blog reader list again - that's my thoughts - what are yours?

So let's share some linkage. I saw this link yesterday in Facebook land and my girls and I love it and going to try it out - another cool blog to read: Paper Baking Cup Flower Valentines

Don't forget to find a way to help the flood victims of Australia.
Khris posted lots of links on her blog.
Jan with more information on how to help.
And Rochelle's info.

Show n' Tell:
I got 5 completed blocks done with my Goose Tracks, only 30 more to go! This is a learning process, but already I see the fruits of my labor - I get more excited with each block!

Back to work for the first time this week, teaching my Beginner Quilting class this evening and hubby is on his way for a long weekend visit!! Going to be a fun filled day!

Hump de Dump Day!

2011-01-12T10:39:00.000-05:00

Well, being stuck inside for a few days one would think I have tons done - well, not really. It's easier to do computer work and hang out with my kids than focus on some sewing goals. Yet, I have knocked a few off my weekly list!

I am enjoying doing my Hoopsisters, Goose Track. It's not challenging, just time consuming and I'm finding tips that will help the class. The key in doing this kind of project is organization. Here's what I set up to start my first Month's Blocks:

Here is one of 4 of the blocks:

I'm not sure on how to do the coloring on this project, but I'm definitely going with a ocean/beach feel mainly because it will hang in my bedroom at some point. Now Jess (co-worker/boss) is doing her blocks 8" (mine are 5" finished) and her's will be very contrasting and bright - which I would love to do as well, but no place to hang in my home.

I also recieve my January Towel from Australia yesterday in my first month towel swap - - look at the detail, I'm very impressed. Again, thank you Shelia!

And I finished 8 Pay It Forwards - weeeeeee!! Unsure when I'll pop them into the mail - roads are still iffy in some areas here, so probably tomorrow on my way home from work.

Another day at home - it's my normal day off and the kids are home again, so I plan to do more sewing and some computer work! Always busy it seems, but trust me I do get down time :)

Happy Hump Day!

Monday Milestones

2011-01-10T16:00:00.002-05:00

I'm joining Kim (A Peach In Stitches) with her weekly goals. She even has a a Mr. Linky on her blog if you wish to share your goals and work through them weekly. I borrowed her beautiful graphics as well, thanks Kim!

Well, I don't have any from last week - that was easy :)

1. Get at least 3 months worth of Goose Tracks complete for "Meet The Teacher's Day" on Saturday.
2. Finish Quilting Basics 102 sample done by Saturday.
3. Finish up Pay it Forward projects - hoping to stock pile a few of these to offer a PIF post every month.
4. Make my new apron for work.
5. Cut out Love Bug quilts.

And thanks to Jennifer for showing me how to add a signature :)

Weekend overview. . .

2011-01-10T07:00:00.004-05:00

A lot to share this wintery Monday morning here in East Tennessee...first can we get a brrrrrrrrrrr.... :)

Had my first class at Gina's Sewing Center this weekend.

As I tried to explain all the options of technique, thread color, layouts and watching bright excited smiles with blank bright eyes. I think they got the gist of it :) My class is full with 10 ladies all doing different blocks and techniques for the Rose of Remembrance Block of the Month program!

I think the best part was knowing several of them decided to take the Quilting Basics 101 class with me next week - I must have presented myself as knowing a lot of good useful information, huh?? And a few more joined the Hoopsisters Goose Tracks BOM next month! So, I have groupies! You have no idea how wonderful that feels.

This BOM hosted by the shop is only meeting quarterly and I personally not doing the entire quilt -- the little table runner I did was my extend of this quilt.

And Michele over at the Quilt Gallery is hosting another swap that I'm joining!! The Mug Rug Swap! I really do prefer swaps with a finish project - saves me headaches later with trying to find a way to finish up x-number of blocks that aren't done properly. Go over and check it out---it is a fast turn around swap, but still do-able:

And finally my design wall and this week's projects:

This is going to be my HoopSister's Goose Tracks background, I'm going to start making blocks this week for this monthly class.

I offer a "Pay It Forward" post on my Facebook over the weekend, so I dug into my stash and pulled all sorts of things from it! It excited me to know I'm using my stash and knowing folks want it :) I spent most of Sunday cutting up 5" squares and sewing them up making little sets of .....secret stuff to pop into the mail over the next few weeks. I'll share pictures as they arrive to their new destinations :)

And one more picture, here's the block I made for Ms. Linda for our first month of Let's Bee Together Swap, it has arrived safely in her hands:

Whew, what a long post!!

One more thing to say, Happy Birthday to my future Daughter-in-Law, Fallon! Hope your day is filled with sweetness!

Boy, I sure was wordy today! Have a great Monday!

Grateful Saturday

2011-01-08T06:00:00.007-05:00

I haven't done this in a few weekend's due to holiday busy-ness. So, that is a good place to start to be Grateful For. . .

1. Holidays seasons that emphasis family and friends. While we daily, weekly and monthly make the efforts to share our love with our family and friends, it's more fun at these times where we also instill decades of traditions of foods, presents, rituals and routines. Finding a new balance every year to be less stressful and more fulfilling is a wonderful blessing as we grow and mature with our relationships.

2. New Year routines. Always feels like a fresh slate. The holidays noise and bustle has come to a complete calm and you are standing in the stillness. What's next? You plan and prepare to do things different and better from lessons learned the year before. I have never been a morning person, but I thoroughly enjoy watching the sunrise because it symbolizes a new day to start a new!

3. New followers! I have 43? WOW, when did that happen? Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to browse through my random happenings. It's nice to know that folks look forward to seeing my posts.

Be sure to share your Grateful Thoughts for this week and visit Maxeabella's site for other Grateful Thoughts.

TGIF!

2011-01-07T07:34:00.000-05:00

And I need to get moving and out the door before this "snow" comes into Eastern Tennessee. I think I'm going to have to push my tomorrow morning class to the afternoon!

I finished my sampler top and it's in the quilting process now:

I so love it! The blank block in the middle will highlight a machine embroidery desgin as I quilt it. It is a tad bit brighter than the image, but the colors work very well!

I also pulled out some of my batiks and decided to jump into the Jewels In the Crown BOM, hosted by Reeze.

Doesn't it POP! I think it works very nicely with jewel tones!

I also feel the need to share my favorite notions I used this morning as I pieced this block together (I paper piece - wasn't about to piece lots of triangles!)

Add-A-Quarter rulers, 6" & 12", my clover seam riper, and my eze-snips!

Well, I hope everyone has a great weekend - my will involve lots of sewing!