tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47709135409650156912024-03-05T15:52:09.771-05:00Quilt SamplerA Quilt Sampler is like life. Stitched with memories and bound with love.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-38083563998645582772011-01-11T10:12:00.000-05:002011-01-11T10:12:45.647-05:00Better Late than Never<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ_BFRmG2pf5TRxXXJgyncnLJmBNUhxAcX0azjcFJ1azQaMHzlVFu9Cbo0SPPcTpNGp3wtjUVg2Xl8wsaLlrR1PKf1Xb28PA23uANEOd_Yf1HaQ9RB2ULCMXJ-ey2NsoeEiJpkHBZPX0J/s1600/DSC02257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJ_BFRmG2pf5TRxXXJgyncnLJmBNUhxAcX0azjcFJ1azQaMHzlVFu9Cbo0SPPcTpNGp3wtjUVg2Xl8wsaLlrR1PKf1Xb28PA23uANEOd_Yf1HaQ9RB2ULCMXJ-ey2NsoeEiJpkHBZPX0J/s320/DSC02257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It was a combination of putting off and kept forgetting that I never blogged about this. I decided today was the day. I thought I would show you the place I hang my hat when it comes to quilt stores. Some of you living in Ontario will recognize this place and know a quilter can have a lot of fun there. They also were chosen from thousands to be included in the Quilt Sampler magazine. I was so happy for them when it happened. This is the last issue from the magazine and the store is featured on page 44. It is called <a href="http://www.quilterscupboard.ca/">Quilters Cupboard </a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczJJgp7SQqXNzbf2h2rjYEDy8Qh8-g4COfdwrroipacqzQAdzNKbJNAYjohpYzdc4MtOxhfOKaoRFvLc4J5TrM5wKxr_jgRS_X9Bh0cu0OvCwynhTFtoiX4Cjcp48Bd8s38GukUyJP_pV/s1600/IMG_4038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczJJgp7SQqXNzbf2h2rjYEDy8Qh8-g4COfdwrroipacqzQAdzNKbJNAYjohpYzdc4MtOxhfOKaoRFvLc4J5TrM5wKxr_jgRS_X9Bh0cu0OvCwynhTFtoiX4Cjcp48Bd8s38GukUyJP_pV/s320/IMG_4038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Sue the owner of the store is an amazing person in more ways than one. To hear her explain how a store gets to "audition" for the magazine is a story all by itself. I never knew there was so much work involved. It's not just phoning them up and saying you'd like to offer your story. There were all kinds of preparations before the magazine decided to run their story and many months afterwards when the magazine decided to finally feature the store. Many nights with little sleep trying to meet deadlines and coping with all the changes made. Sue kept it all light hearted and managed to survive that. After all, she is a survivor of another sort. Sue was diagnosed with cancer (she had no signs whatsoever) and the prognosis was not good but with a lot of prayer and a lot of friendship from all she managed. During her various medical regimes she decided to host a cancer-quilt-marathon. She organized groups quilting around the frame non-stop (and I mean 24hours) for many days. People signed up for sewing, feeding the masses, entertaining, serving, quilting etc. The word got out throughout the town and even men were dropping in to see what the fuss was all about. Some even tried their hand at quilting. There were pledges signed and things sold through auctions via the store. People then started coming from all around to participate in this worthwhile cause. Sue also had a bet going with another quilt store to do the same (raise money for cancer) in another part of the province. Other quilt stores throughout Canada heard about it and did their bit as well. When Sue totaled the money that her store alone raised for the cancer society we all fell off our chairs. In the matter of 2 weeks (I believe) Sue's store raised over $30,000. Yes, more than $30,000. You have to remember that Uxbridge, where the store is located, is just a small town. It is in farm country. To me that showed how much Sue and her store is loved and how much the town and all that participated wanted to help fight a terrible disease. Word spread throughout the "land" and more and more people wanted to "help" so Sue organized another marathon the following year. I don't know how much that one raised but I'm sure it was a vast sum again. There have been other marathons for cancer put on by other quilt stores in Canada but to date no one has matched Sue's amount collected. There is more to this story but have kept it brief. Visit Sue sometime and she'll fill in the details for you. Besides, this will give you another reason to visit the store (besides shopping) and meet her in person. You won't regret going. If you live too far away turn to page 44 in the magazine to read about her store. Too bad the article wasn't longer. There is so much more to say. Then turn to the pattern section where Sherri designed a quilt for the article in the magazine. Wonderful, in a word. Sew-long!Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-51449973606574152142011-01-05T10:57:00.000-05:002011-01-05T10:57:02.048-05:00Happy New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Happy New Year to all and hope that the year has started on the right foot for everyone. I for one love the New Year because it's like starting over again, a new slate so to speak. It reminds me of going into a pine forest after the rain when things are still damp and feeling that everything has been "cleaned" off. Then smelling that wonderful pine scent the trees give off which instantly refreshes and vitalizes me. How wonderful is that? My New Year has started with moving on from the deaths that occurred during December (we had 5) and thinking of getting back to my sewing and blogging (which I will be doing today).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigT1naYSEw3tA4ddENB9LfklfPLs8HroCzwPqczUWdVdTkm820nWUjqcXZfQXgxNKvdQYWHvSpf2TptpymPt1cVmd-FTatg0Ckfx4hBgM7f_8TbRzyKNbdZOcu9WWVlsHlX6NbSc10Idsp/s1600/Shirleys+IFQ+block+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigT1naYSEw3tA4ddENB9LfklfPLs8HroCzwPqczUWdVdTkm820nWUjqcXZfQXgxNKvdQYWHvSpf2TptpymPt1cVmd-FTatg0Ckfx4hBgM7f_8TbRzyKNbdZOcu9WWVlsHlX6NbSc10Idsp/s320/Shirleys+IFQ+block+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This block I made for my new partner Shirley living in Ontario who is a member in the <a href="http://internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a>. Shirley sent me the centre square and I added the other fabrics to the block. I have heard back from her and she loves what I did with her centre square fabric. <br />
<br />
<br />
Secret Santa Swap<br />
I joined my very first Secret Santa Swap. After I signed up I realized what that meant. It meant I had to send something to someone I had never met and knew nothing about. Talk about momentary panic. I did have her blog address and tried to glean some insight reading her blog but that did not help much. So I thought just do your best and keep your fingers cross that she'll like whatever I make her. I forgot to take pictures before I sent it off but I did hear back from Polly at <a href="http://auntpollysporch.blogspot.com/">Polly's Porch </a>that she loved her present. Signing up for Secret Santa also meant that I would receive a gift in the mail from someone. It was <a href="http://queenoftheunfinishedprojects.blogspot.com/">Stephanie</a> from the USA. This time I remembered to take pictures.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhO-h3qbGuhdbz_A0_RnKYCCbEsxA9FwV6pZcvUzD3-C9Aznzsu_LQKFVbMl-ysEhQVux4IZ32U9RCmagUT9kaLYfkafgLD4ESM4Lkf9sHDqSQdI93DHFDNzJxlI1TydU_SatCoy1f0zK/s320/Stephanie+secret.jpg" width="320" /></div> Stephanie made this wonderful pin cushion from an antique demi-tasse cup. It is the perfect size and colour for my room. It just so happened I needed another pin cushion.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo7WKDLXgpAfznqKel8v2T_t5SJ4X-j2K6b4uROfLxS8gUeE07BxlA0_6bMQt6B1Tre1CjtbDKsSryTYLKcxTKwtd1_M-kUh3adrWCyPR7dShHv6qPW9McfZTx2Qm8Txiz2EaqyLD8EgQ/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo7WKDLXgpAfznqKel8v2T_t5SJ4X-j2K6b4uROfLxS8gUeE07BxlA0_6bMQt6B1Tre1CjtbDKsSryTYLKcxTKwtd1_M-kUh3adrWCyPR7dShHv6qPW9McfZTx2Qm8Txiz2EaqyLD8EgQ/s320/Stephanie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Pictured behind the demi-tasse was a huge candle and a Christmas card that she made herself.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50pNB7LrdKs583lJX_yQK6j-p6y2RmnQBLeJt7ACkQc5DQ3XpNMC-bBG7N0gWgrhlEOvWuEkpI5lE3RIJ-Eki2zkKQ1OhXKzpd1wIYwm9qGxvDjN6ITgBkL2vLBFK0MX-WvET4Hv5dbZQ/s1600/Stephanies+mat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50pNB7LrdKs583lJX_yQK6j-p6y2RmnQBLeJt7ACkQc5DQ3XpNMC-bBG7N0gWgrhlEOvWuEkpI5lE3RIJ-Eki2zkKQ1OhXKzpd1wIYwm9qGxvDjN6ITgBkL2vLBFK0MX-WvET4Hv5dbZQ/s320/Stephanies+mat.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>If that wasn't enough she also made me these mug mats from wool. As you can see one is big enough to use as a small table runner if a person wanted to. She hand stitched the smaller mat with a blanket stitch and the larger mat with machine blanket stitching. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8hM3IUkNwOhGK32VpYrX8ancYPi-f484dj5qvxwmOaTh8ruqv4iPqRltkZLq58Z7YQ4pmfqepKvhGlXZeN7-gcKB1VtE6eDDn4nqe48k9gEa6tw97LJQ_asgoWj0_IUPvbpZoA0W0uEP/s1600/Stephanie+secret+santa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8hM3IUkNwOhGK32VpYrX8ancYPi-f484dj5qvxwmOaTh8ruqv4iPqRltkZLq58Z7YQ4pmfqepKvhGlXZeN7-gcKB1VtE6eDDn4nqe48k9gEa6tw97LJQ_asgoWj0_IUPvbpZoA0W0uEP/s320/Stephanie+secret+santa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Stephanie didn't stop there. She also included a wonderful, big mug and some biscotti to have with my hazelnut flavoured coffee. Such a gal!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8EfilLPUiVgyMeCGIgBHv3eWxrpcndTvd-NwHlDqu7NZoFNkKA9d62fNCTxtP0s4Rfo7TT_soLNswaskF331ZPKcqhWDF14gHXM-7mbxLURT_27SMGk8xAPP33fyO4annTq4UljoncqQY/s1600/Stephanie+cup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8EfilLPUiVgyMeCGIgBHv3eWxrpcndTvd-NwHlDqu7NZoFNkKA9d62fNCTxtP0s4Rfo7TT_soLNswaskF331ZPKcqhWDF14gHXM-7mbxLURT_27SMGk8xAPP33fyO4annTq4UljoncqQY/s320/Stephanie+cup.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>To top things off she included some candy cane and tree ornaments (which I put on my tree right away). I couldn't believe how blessed I was in receiving all of this from a stranger. Thank you, Stephanie. When I opened your parcel that day and peeled back all the layers I thought how this kindness has brightened my life. I hope all of you that signed up for the Secret Santa Swap were just as lucky.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-43106504999291366712010-12-21T15:45:00.000-05:002010-12-21T15:45:27.670-05:00I Have ReturnedI want to say a big heartfelt "Thank you" to everyone that sent their kind thoughts. I appreciated it very much.<br />
<br />
Now to the blogging. I decided today was the day to try blogging again. I'll see how it goes and if I think I am up to the task I will continue. This will be a short entry because I know all of you are very busy these days preparing for Christmas. I haven't decided as yet if I will make any New Year's resolutions (because I normally do not) since there is still plenty of time to decide. I will have a big "think" on it after Christmas. How many of you in the blogosphere make resolutions? Do you keep them? I wonder what the consensus will be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5QF2ZIXBCEC9YdhTDk_zm7n09_FyxXB3l68scnMrouoVqWpu2SsgMrzhj6kdVobJISTPeaNyYzcvJaaksDLFcaIBFqsoWncwwSitKdQ42MqUR7r2HtFNEP3LRjwJBtmbgm6GGavuxwOV/s1600/Marys+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5QF2ZIXBCEC9YdhTDk_zm7n09_FyxXB3l68scnMrouoVqWpu2SsgMrzhj6kdVobJISTPeaNyYzcvJaaksDLFcaIBFqsoWncwwSitKdQ42MqUR7r2HtFNEP3LRjwJBtmbgm6GGavuxwOV/s320/Marys+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is a block I received from Mary. She was my partner in the <a href="http://www.christmasquiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian block swap</a> for this month. I had requested a star pattern (of her choice) so Mary made me this Wonky Star. I just love it. I have never made this pattern myself so I now have one. Thank you, Mary<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSFRGrH3gmHhVKqeETNKM9UAY8ZopGO516W-Zj3GthBBGBWxhbp0WJQ5znFxwF0e4jOPoTMb0Dy_h9nTu1fdv8lRj8UOGWz1SeAPMtdvSNXi2Q09iCp0aHyqkIn1m4VrMwP09d6GaULmu/s1600/Larains+block+for+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSFRGrH3gmHhVKqeETNKM9UAY8ZopGO516W-Zj3GthBBGBWxhbp0WJQ5znFxwF0e4jOPoTMb0Dy_h9nTu1fdv8lRj8UOGWz1SeAPMtdvSNXi2Q09iCp0aHyqkIn1m4VrMwP09d6GaULmu/s320/Larains+block+for+me.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>This block I received from Laraine living in Australia. She also was my partner in the <a href="http://christmasquiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian block swap</a> but for November. I had requested a star pattern from her and Larain chose to make me this one. I'm sorry I am late in posting this, Laraine, but it arrived at the time we heard about my brother-in-law. On a brighter side, when I opened up the envelope and saw your block it really made me happy and put a smile on my face.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYu0pvt9i_mzZ0hRcjf-BECl4Vk8nzOOcX0Nh4hhcnZ5y5LSExbHpozcAMTK1rQjId8noK1LWut8k28FvRhjOsIPMMTWSqs8oUXhs4O0F_QPqKm_AZNU13NSorztM_9MBDKkKSh7F9xxAY/s1600/Crazy+Patch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYu0pvt9i_mzZ0hRcjf-BECl4Vk8nzOOcX0Nh4hhcnZ5y5LSExbHpozcAMTK1rQjId8noK1LWut8k28FvRhjOsIPMMTWSqs8oUXhs4O0F_QPqKm_AZNU13NSorztM_9MBDKkKSh7F9xxAY/s320/Crazy+Patch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is a block I made for Marie in Australia. I hope she liked it. She had requested a particular paper pieced block from Carol Doak. I fiddled, twisted and turned the block until I found the star in the centre. I don't think that was the original intention of this pattern but that's how I sewed it together. This block was for the month of November for the <a href="http://www.quiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian block swap.</a><br />
Just as a reminder to all, there are two Australian block swaps running simultaneously. The one swap is for Christmas themes and fabrics taking place monthly and the other is for a "regular" swap taking place monthly. Just use the links I provided and you'll be directed to the correct site. In both cases you list your parameter for block pattern and fabric colours and in both cases you will be making a 12" block. The ladies are a great bunch and come from all over. I feel I have made many new friends in the short time I've been a member. There is still space for new comers and membership is free. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiMjh6UxUR2sGK3jYGws-QIW8Ihf_g916zJL3MKXImokx4AXs2B39QjMgKielodcAkgV7KJIN038OWzJiEZH35zboCet44y95QSSo_mJ5UEjNBaB-RwmaKawaM5zVuc9tcAHiZexSV4vT/s1600/Jans+block+for+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiMjh6UxUR2sGK3jYGws-QIW8Ihf_g916zJL3MKXImokx4AXs2B39QjMgKielodcAkgV7KJIN038OWzJiEZH35zboCet44y95QSSo_mJ5UEjNBaB-RwmaKawaM5zVuc9tcAHiZexSV4vT/s320/Jans+block+for+me.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>This is an ongoing event I belong to from the<a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/"> IFQ. </a>This is a block Jan from USA made me and I love what she did with my square. In this event you send you partner the centre square and she decides what fabric/colours to use to finish the block and mails it back to you. I'm sorry the picture doesn't do justice to my block but she did have a keen eye in her fabric choice.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KGiedNjO8Nrsx7f19PLGCLxZmM0KQXpYE-6hB80r7yPcNLEdHU0b0RSbBEWfXKSBr1goXn0pst1CNje4S09oaE8KR0nxnV1qCG71BF8vjFR3Vqq-9OL_NOPPWEtrKPW0bFQDFbPpD3NJ/s1600/Jan+S+blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KGiedNjO8Nrsx7f19PLGCLxZmM0KQXpYE-6hB80r7yPcNLEdHU0b0RSbBEWfXKSBr1goXn0pst1CNje4S09oaE8KR0nxnV1qCG71BF8vjFR3Vqq-9OL_NOPPWEtrKPW0bFQDFbPpD3NJ/s320/Jan+S+blocks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is a block I made for Jan in return. She sent me the blue centre square and I decided how to finish the block. I heard back from Jan that she absolutely loved what I did with her block and that the picture did not do it justice. If anyone is interested in this event just look up <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> using this link and find Mosaic Colour Play on the right side of the site under "events". While you are there, look up the rest of the site. I think you will want to join when you see the planned activities that are ongoing.<br />
<br />
I would like to say a final few words to all my new quilting friends. Your thoughts and messages and blocks came at a time when I needed them most. They brighten up my life at a time when I needed them more than I realized. You all put a smile on my face. Thank you and am glad I have you as my friends. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-90282972673440043452010-11-24T11:22:00.000-05:002010-11-24T11:22:23.675-05:00Quilt Block SwapsWe got a call Monday morning after breakfast. It was something we were not expecting. My sister-in-law's husband had died on Sunday. What a wonderful man the world has lost. He was a gentleman and a gentle man. He was a yachtsman and loved to sail on the sea or any other place that had a body of water. He was involved in many activities and was never one to be idle. Now he has made his final voyage. My DH and I feel we have a great void in our lives at the moment and I decided I was not going to sit and dwell on the negative but turn the moment into a positive action. I had purchased some flannel for making baby blankets for the neonatal unit at our local hospital and never got started. So as I make these blankets I will think of my brother-in-law's passing as sad but also think of the new babies coming into the world to fill the void. I hope you all will understand this will be my last post for a time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0DkOpb-esGO8srXYMQ3sOsmxz4BTyhkNjbjuuCCKX-H1RFI57VYfGN_irQ1XX9X9cufVnLiib3eqVXrDPsGy4PI2uMdfnbtuh3TAAiulx_SRhFDypQ-XwOAK01MEHA7jEL6FiS2V59_5/s1600/DSC02729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0DkOpb-esGO8srXYMQ3sOsmxz4BTyhkNjbjuuCCKX-H1RFI57VYfGN_irQ1XX9X9cufVnLiib3eqVXrDPsGy4PI2uMdfnbtuh3TAAiulx_SRhFDypQ-XwOAK01MEHA7jEL6FiS2V59_5/s320/DSC02729.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I received this block in the mail yesterday and did it ever cheer me up. This block was made by my new friend Sue from Australia. This block comes from the quilting block swaps in Australia (button on my left side bar ) where you specify which colours you'd like used and which block pattern if you so desire. Sue also included a lovely quilt card and a small panel of Christmas images which I just love. The blocks in the panel are just the right size for me and I think have many applications like labels, pincushions, used in mug mats etc. Thank you so much, Sue. I love my block and you certainly brightened my life.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-26349760645087345062010-11-20T08:20:00.000-05:002010-11-20T08:20:52.345-05:00Quilt Block SwapsDo you remember when you were young and your mother dressed you up so warmly that you looked like a snowman. You had your arms stuck out permanently and waddled as you walked because you couldn't manage any other way due to all the fabric around your body? Well that is what I looked like last week trying to get in the last few days of "summer" on the golf course. It was wonderful and very cold and very worth the clothing aggravation to take those last swings. Looking back on it I don't know how I managed to swing the club and not fall over. But today I awoke to find snow on the ground and the realization hit me that winter was truly on its way. Mind you, I started to hear the words to the song "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" in my head as I looked out which made me feel better about the situation. Speaking of Christmas, let me show you what the postman dropped off this week.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN8JbvJparZ-RPVNOmnd6cXP5yhiQRdZTD9-iUCgqOfy5F-6LdE7Ufb8SYpQ0zyeJKoKMn967yL9XGtSIeVoKWQv2zZz2_vCu30kg4KFaMXGs-ZZC4qombY9MaJ1YiPJUvu90Z5LpZ568r/s1600/Cropped+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN8JbvJparZ-RPVNOmnd6cXP5yhiQRdZTD9-iUCgqOfy5F-6LdE7Ufb8SYpQ0zyeJKoKMn967yL9XGtSIeVoKWQv2zZz2_vCu30kg4KFaMXGs-ZZC4qombY9MaJ1YiPJUvu90Z5LpZ568r/s320/Cropped+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As you know I belong to the <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">International Friendship Quilters</a> and one of the events they hold is a block swap. You send your partner a 4 1/2" centre square and she decides which colours to use in order to finish the block. This is what my new friend Lynne made with my square. Too bad the photo does not do it justice but I think she captured the essence of the centre square in this block. Thank you Lynne. If you would like to participate in this event or view any of the other programs the <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> has just click on the link. Membership is free.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9K0EU0bL-FgZHujkinjH8lD9-UEEZygAiB_twH7M0nembyXnrTgOAjbJEbyFj5oSLcleGOHBpnxIavH0cG6ibF0R7N_jOnZLJoVp9TwIBPuAJLMZrW49KMMlcV86HqOc8SQC5zfxyyf0/s1600/Cropped+swap+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9K0EU0bL-FgZHujkinjH8lD9-UEEZygAiB_twH7M0nembyXnrTgOAjbJEbyFj5oSLcleGOHBpnxIavH0cG6ibF0R7N_jOnZLJoVp9TwIBPuAJLMZrW49KMMlcV86HqOc8SQC5zfxyyf0/s320/Cropped+swap+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
The postman dropped of another block next day. I also belong to the <a href="http://www.christmasquiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian Christmas Block Swap</a> group and have been waiting for this one to arrive. In this group you can specify which block pattern you would like made using Christmas fabric. What you don't know is what it will look like until you receive it. I was tickled pink when I got my block. This is Linda's original star pattern design. What a great job she did. Thank you, Linda. Because she took a little longer than expected to get the block to me she also included a Mug mat. I don't have one of these and have always wanted one so this made me feel like it was Christmas.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh612tv78FM_oJeloKgKHubvMlIzVPJy-_-byv-BmcyfRjuYDmqaL8ZgLXuhF_jYtwo6pXYIyRsG2yKPTLfyLWchBkKUDvuAJd-JVeH3undSDZClW8rtXZZa5tVzXb_Y2ea98B8ohy7E0g/s1600/Mug+mat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh612tv78FM_oJeloKgKHubvMlIzVPJy-_-byv-BmcyfRjuYDmqaL8ZgLXuhF_jYtwo6pXYIyRsG2yKPTLfyLWchBkKUDvuAJd-JVeH3undSDZClW8rtXZZa5tVzXb_Y2ea98B8ohy7E0g/s320/Mug+mat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Whenever I use this mat I'll be thinking of her. If you like to have Christmas all year long this swap is for you. You can specify which type of Christmas fabric you would like used or leave it to the maker to decide and again which block you would like used or leaving it to the maker to decide as well. It's a fun group and I know I'm glad I joined.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-49838523580455399902010-11-16T19:57:00.000-05:002010-11-16T19:57:44.939-05:00Hexagon Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uZwXoYk7AYJ9dWoJwOLBFvgkIuQixi0N-iPutzL3EW-ZsDkY14DKH9gjkEiD57WSXHN3DHUapyeSd0cJohaarPuhphf_NzzH5GwyJ4CidvlapwoxNVtypECusxsNEL3BHifuTWVSAjfK/s1600/Cropped+hexagons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uZwXoYk7AYJ9dWoJwOLBFvgkIuQixi0N-iPutzL3EW-ZsDkY14DKH9gjkEiD57WSXHN3DHUapyeSd0cJohaarPuhphf_NzzH5GwyJ4CidvlapwoxNVtypECusxsNEL3BHifuTWVSAjfK/s320/Cropped+hexagons.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><br />
Hello everyone and thanks for visiting my garden this week. My maids are all standing in a row curiously looking out from the garden and wondering who my visitor is. These maidens are new so I must apologize that they are staring and do not recognize you. Just give them time and it won't be long before they recognize everyone. My garden is growing but at a slower pace. I have other projects I want to start on so my flowers will only be growing at a rate of one hexagon per day. That's a comfortable speed for me to maintain at this point in time. As I mentioned last post I feel like "freedom 55" has taken hold because this group of hexagons were made without a thought of colour coordination. Personally I like the way the hexagons worked out and the hexagons went together with no stress nor fuss. If you would like a closer look remember to click on the image. There is a burning question I would like to know the answer to. When I sew the petals together I have to stop and cut my thread several times. I have not been able to figure out if there is a "route" to take where I would be able to sew all the petals and centre together without having to break the thread. Is that a possible? Would someone in the blogosphere please leave me a comment on how to accomplish this (if possible). I would also like to hear from you if it's only partially possible as in 2 thread cuts. It has been on my mind for a while now and thought I would ask, you, my quilting friends for the answer.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-4342732780634037562010-11-12T08:09:00.000-05:002010-11-12T08:09:51.437-05:00Fantastic Quilt WeekWhat a fantastic quilt week it's been for me. I feel like Christmas has arrived early for me. The only thing missing at the moment is being called to the table for brunch. I do smell a hint of cinnamon in the air and hear carols playing in the background of my mind. Let me unfold by week for you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvmFori7zSGoTOydSpzrrkvO49xJ3HeImLOc1JnSV8IEeT4ovYy8jWfFCDOkgH3aOhPQnDjGVhWLE-l3cRyfgo5PYvl9m5TcjijUFWuae0sfAu7J3ZNlqkzjT0nxRHs836NyPr6sq5wSy/s1600/Dear+Jane+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvmFori7zSGoTOydSpzrrkvO49xJ3HeImLOc1JnSV8IEeT4ovYy8jWfFCDOkgH3aOhPQnDjGVhWLE-l3cRyfgo5PYvl9m5TcjijUFWuae0sfAu7J3ZNlqkzjT0nxRHs836NyPr6sq5wSy/s320/Dear+Jane+cropped.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
First, my friend Lynn helped me start on my Dear Jane quilt. I have been putting this aside far too long and decided it was time to bite the bullet. I decided to use 1940's fabric with a muslin background. Since 1940's fabric is difficult to find I don't know if I will have enough fabric variety in my stash but then I was never one to do things the easy way. This photo is my first block. It is one of the border triangles in the DJ quilt and was paper pieced. I have to say that I have never sewed with such small pieces before and found it possible to hold and sew. I sewed the block using a HANDCRANK machine. Yes, they still exist and I love them. I have now started my DJ journey and will show you my progress from time to time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21X1e1NqPsV2U0-q4OeHgT_eAJt61U7X0kN8eR65MtIlMKkCJbnELyHPCUU9lgGsc7z2nEZBqH8ExwgK1r-cVzmcYfNJaatfPgVjDFv2TIkjtj6AEdlBSYGJogjYTKbhJvr8J8IvApp1O/s1600/Cropped+Linda%2527s+hexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21X1e1NqPsV2U0-q4OeHgT_eAJt61U7X0kN8eR65MtIlMKkCJbnELyHPCUU9lgGsc7z2nEZBqH8ExwgK1r-cVzmcYfNJaatfPgVjDFv2TIkjtj6AEdlBSYGJogjYTKbhJvr8J8IvApp1O/s320/Cropped+Linda%2527s+hexi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Next came an envelope with this lovely hexagon inside from my new friend, <a href="http://straystitches1.blogspot.com/">Linda.</a> She and I are participants in the <a href="http://www.quiltjane.blogspot.com/p/inchy-flower-swap.html">Inchy Hexagon exchange.</a> I had requested pink petals with a dark green centre and this is what Linda sewed for me. She included a lovely card as well. I love the use of the stripes. Stripes are something people seem to either avoid or ignore. I think they do so much for such a small amount of design. I am of the opinion that stripes should be brought out to the forefront, either by promoting the product or more frequent use by quilters, so their beauty can be appreciated. Those dots you see are the paper pieces left in so the person can align the patch in order to sew it together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyx_3Nq_ptWE0u-5aGHNmJBxDLmkfU9Zb0dfLM7ZiHERj-2wGgV8iys_ZTouidKEt7sFe-lcivt3QqXsKU8rLdGoqZLbGPhMfef7dvJewfNbQ7v7HyAfKHTYH_V12DSdb4yVsAx7CSuTd/s1600/Cropped+Leona%2527s+postcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyx_3Nq_ptWE0u-5aGHNmJBxDLmkfU9Zb0dfLM7ZiHERj-2wGgV8iys_ZTouidKEt7sFe-lcivt3QqXsKU8rLdGoqZLbGPhMfef7dvJewfNbQ7v7HyAfKHTYH_V12DSdb4yVsAx7CSuTd/s320/Cropped+Leona%2527s+postcard.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Then the postman dropped this off in my mailbox. I was the lucky winner of <a href="http://www.oneygirl-myquiltingadventure.blogspot.com/">Leona's </a>giveaway recently and was I thrilled! Wait until I show you what lovely Leona sent me. She started off with a Cornbread stuffing recipe (which I must try) and two great cards as you can see. As I unfolded the package I found....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgZv-8WMIYmdvV3EgAhMXTTtUb-hVsrD1EBM8jcVblUXwjPIhQgmMm7szBjO7DboINOUq7jcEVDUxdfbro4r69pt9eQkdCjTldpodcz8UiXRHxRgT1UokLniYahDRnSn3Mfrx0uKz1r_5/s1600/Cropped+Leona%2527s+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgZv-8WMIYmdvV3EgAhMXTTtUb-hVsrD1EBM8jcVblUXwjPIhQgmMm7szBjO7DboINOUq7jcEVDUxdfbro4r69pt9eQkdCjTldpodcz8UiXRHxRgT1UokLniYahDRnSn3Mfrx0uKz1r_5/s320/Cropped+Leona%2527s+book.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
a hardcover book on vintage aprons. That subject is something I have been interested in for a while now and what a great reference book to receive. I used to make and wear aprons when I was young because that "was what you are supposed to do". Consequently I had always wondered what women in the past made themselves, what designs they made and fabric patterns used. Hopefully I will be able to sit and read this weekend and find out the answer to that question. But that was not all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRzJPAUgBEwZG0s57bmCO2np_T90OrvXSxtrZXl8Yy2Oi2soCgOLUYPNGEfqajnTV4ajG1ea1fUNzFq3Q8PUDgdTSVl4a85zYKTrgF-5yiBILL1xw1f_cOSBI_QHZM6xIKHiN9bNV4wdZ/s1600/Cropped+Leona%2527s+buttons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRzJPAUgBEwZG0s57bmCO2np_T90OrvXSxtrZXl8Yy2Oi2soCgOLUYPNGEfqajnTV4ajG1ea1fUNzFq3Q8PUDgdTSVl4a85zYKTrgF-5yiBILL1xw1f_cOSBI_QHZM6xIKHiN9bNV4wdZ/s320/Cropped+Leona%2527s+buttons.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Leona also included a pincushion that was the perfect size for one of my sewing areas. It is already in use. She also gave me a button bag and a safety pin bag. How cute is that! It won't take me a minute to fill that button bag because I have quite a few of them. Very handy indeed but more is still to come.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW0heTpxhznY77jCGYj4Ql20tEVhrSPk7SM6QgMn4H0JLy4kLCFhQUdXZpAWp9fpHPNDhu150SPIkhKZoEKaeMEPrf43ydpXbS53fXcAK6MbUZu0-tPmi7bW2cp1MnLvnuAdtiPT3Vdtc/s1600/DSC02680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW0heTpxhznY77jCGYj4Ql20tEVhrSPk7SM6QgMn4H0JLy4kLCFhQUdXZpAWp9fpHPNDhu150SPIkhKZoEKaeMEPrf43ydpXbS53fXcAK6MbUZu0-tPmi7bW2cp1MnLvnuAdtiPT3Vdtc/s320/DSC02680.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As a final gift Leona included 4 yards of various Christmas fabric and a Christmas pattern as well. Talk about being giddy. For those of you not aware, Christmas is my most favourite holiday (and it's not about gifts) so receiving this fabric just put me over the edge. I could feel the love and generosity. Thank you so much to my new friend, Leona.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW0heTpxhznY77jCGYj4Ql20tEVhrSPk7SM6QgMn4H0JLy4kLCFhQUdXZpAWp9fpHPNDhu150SPIkhKZoEKaeMEPrf43ydpXbS53fXcAK6MbUZu0-tPmi7bW2cp1MnLvnuAdtiPT3Vdtc/s1600/DSC02680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPW0heTpxhznY77jCGYj4Ql20tEVhrSPk7SM6QgMn4H0JLy4kLCFhQUdXZpAWp9fpHPNDhu150SPIkhKZoEKaeMEPrf43ydpXbS53fXcAK6MbUZu0-tPmi7bW2cp1MnLvnuAdtiPT3Vdtc/s320/DSC02680.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Last but not least I did manage to get some sewing done in between all this excitement. I made a Christmas block for the <a href="http://www.christmasquiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian Christmas block swap</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt9tkATiNxJ6p8amq6nhGZtTW2R_-UXZJgRjvQm4D-p_tGGrHf3ArBI7oNEEXXTfoB40vVnGFihOolT0ClKjkKIadIF50ARopUarKQlpgxWzqZq4oZ2I7oJHLgEDSBwSm30kaDhVwzfV8/s1600/Christmas+swap+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt9tkATiNxJ6p8amq6nhGZtTW2R_-UXZJgRjvQm4D-p_tGGrHf3ArBI7oNEEXXTfoB40vVnGFihOolT0ClKjkKIadIF50ARopUarKQlpgxWzqZq4oZ2I7oJHLgEDSBwSm30kaDhVwzfV8/s320/Christmas+swap+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This block is for Larain in Australia. She had requested a star block of my choice pieced in traditional Christmas colours of red/green. I decided to try my hand at this star pattern, which is paper pieced, to find out if it comes together quickly. I must confess it took longer than anticipated and more fabric than anticipated but the process was fun and I might make the pattern again. I hope Larain approves.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-42568834218671397442010-11-09T17:11:00.000-05:002010-11-09T17:11:40.969-05:00Hexagon Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyizkSv_TWFI1zu6-5nhN2hEsJJ_SUcmVSnTttOVkb2oLHfJIwL9MUJ27VdLwK3O-bKsd0Hb2PTPAVJjeMzSvzQSYX2jiQv8Z9hveldDcXCsWwbPHMmz9Cg0yEim5kbHGYHS9VBIJ4C6Tf/s1600/Cropped+hexagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyizkSv_TWFI1zu6-5nhN2hEsJJ_SUcmVSnTttOVkb2oLHfJIwL9MUJ27VdLwK3O-bKsd0Hb2PTPAVJjeMzSvzQSYX2jiQv8Z9hveldDcXCsWwbPHMmz9Cg0yEim5kbHGYHS9VBIJ4C6Tf/s320/Cropped+hexagon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Hello everyone. Remember last time my hexagon box was empty and I was crying about it? Well, I searched around my stash and found I had quite a few small pieces of fabric so I decided to cut them up. I must say it was a liberating feeling knowing I was not going to pay attention to colour and texture of fabric. I was just going to grab and cut. "Damn the torpedos. Full speed ahead!". So here is some of the fabric which took little time to cut. How is that possible you ask?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsHQTsjWCIojrASE1kUTkGk5wiwixHuGEcxcp8wPwDUvqL1BGV5ycOL2_FTDAbX_-IDVjuqoy7C1vuB0Tb2zPTnwOc5XssBdCAJ0ZjQvI5ut2EYEYZvwW5BtDaaiJ0aygXpfDFGR_o_Wj0/s1600/Hexagon+ruler+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsHQTsjWCIojrASE1kUTkGk5wiwixHuGEcxcp8wPwDUvqL1BGV5ycOL2_FTDAbX_-IDVjuqoy7C1vuB0Tb2zPTnwOc5XssBdCAJ0ZjQvI5ut2EYEYZvwW5BtDaaiJ0aygXpfDFGR_o_Wj0/s320/Hexagon+ruler+cropped.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><br />
I purchased this ruler several years ago and never used it. I forgot I had it until I accidentally fell across it after signing up for <a href="http://www.journeyofaquilter.blogspot.com/">Hexagon Wednesday.</a> What a great notion. It had the perfect cutting size for the hexagons I am amassing. I cut my fabric into 2 1/2" strips, lie the ruler on the 2 1/2" markings and cut out the hexagon. It's that simple.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmoD8dGuD6k5mmSnluKp-QNAVbcucE6yjUwe4z8MWFjcNeehaWTRw5xph37OtlCHNxa_jOlKfFEkKzG2jiqDke76ueMBsvUmIRRaaMmF0ZQl5HpAVXF1g-vz6ZoV33_8MaJ4fDb_TNgb_J/s1600/Hexagons+with+extra+cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmoD8dGuD6k5mmSnluKp-QNAVbcucE6yjUwe4z8MWFjcNeehaWTRw5xph37OtlCHNxa_jOlKfFEkKzG2jiqDke76ueMBsvUmIRRaaMmF0ZQl5HpAVXF1g-vz6ZoV33_8MaJ4fDb_TNgb_J/s320/Hexagons+with+extra+cut.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Here I present to you my lovely maids all in a row that will be going into my garden quilt. Very soon I will have to come up with a quilt layout before I sew too many together and have to rip apart because they are the wrong shape. As you can see I am not paying any attention to colour combinations. I just pick up and sew the pieces together akin to picking out a chocolate from a box. It doesn't matter what I chose because it's all good.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-68337693111354128162010-11-07T19:05:00.000-05:002010-11-07T19:05:59.662-05:00New Treasure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I wanted to share with you a treasure I recently acquired. At first I did not pay any attention to it and passed it by as it sat on the store shelf.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXtbrGv_xCGnwpaddizVjeqnSq-iePrxjQpzSJkpthYLPq6xJ_Dlt6xJrGE9JaByUKM2A63M7tb-6zimhz2zK7Uo7_RUuVfG4uBb6-awmT1g7rQrw4LpjSd7GsnkyhuiiKPS0nbwOD9CH/s1600/DSC01668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXtbrGv_xCGnwpaddizVjeqnSq-iePrxjQpzSJkpthYLPq6xJ_Dlt6xJrGE9JaByUKM2A63M7tb-6zimhz2zK7Uo7_RUuVfG4uBb6-awmT1g7rQrw4LpjSd7GsnkyhuiiKPS0nbwOD9CH/s320/DSC01668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Suddenly, something caught my eye and drew my attention back to the teapot. I thought why would anyone want such an embellished thing that would need great care in washing?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPyirQk5LE-N4HpndpOOy8DACXRcocorenpS5hFurpC1ZZCjCWJdtxtiCq4WHHZDfMeqRwVjJrH9AoQTy7FmEoB1Vnv9-zj75yUhJoTJrzSkiHHIUkgGbv-4oj5a8wUMKNQ5cGmtGph7p/s1600/DSC01657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPyirQk5LE-N4HpndpOOy8DACXRcocorenpS5hFurpC1ZZCjCWJdtxtiCq4WHHZDfMeqRwVjJrH9AoQTy7FmEoB1Vnv9-zj75yUhJoTJrzSkiHHIUkgGbv-4oj5a8wUMKNQ5cGmtGph7p/s320/DSC01657.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I picked it up to study it further but the longer I held it the more it was calling out to me. I thought this is crazy. I don't need a teapot but continued to study it further.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87Ecxtxs0i0jKTp7I5x2HuglXiICYj2NfS_AUMlwFBwQQTo6CLyCZ1jtWO5mHiNUFI84xZhJY6OefoNfNyh6n1DtLPvnSlSMJemDJBqEtwP9x7NyWTDgEyNR2pzjSpc1Z4IToGn3Pfe72/s1600/DSC01666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87Ecxtxs0i0jKTp7I5x2HuglXiICYj2NfS_AUMlwFBwQQTo6CLyCZ1jtWO5mHiNUFI84xZhJY6OefoNfNyh6n1DtLPvnSlSMJemDJBqEtwP9x7NyWTDgEyNR2pzjSpc1Z4IToGn3Pfe72/s320/DSC01666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I was starting to fall in love with it. There is a certain feeling I get when I know my resistance is weakening and this was such an occasion. But I prevailed and was putting it back on the shelf when my hand accidentally hit the teapot lid.............<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGeSwGGs0rogqQU4rwOzQEEVpCb0YcX92g2oE9ZIvfBANHY5AR_74kQCQ7uWNcFB0FNJwV-xvvhE74q-KXaKewv66zh25eyG45wfCJCaggl4bIz3MqnJR4RG0tofcXwCUEQXhy0LYfpEr/s1600/DSC01636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGeSwGGs0rogqQU4rwOzQEEVpCb0YcX92g2oE9ZIvfBANHY5AR_74kQCQ7uWNcFB0FNJwV-xvvhE74q-KXaKewv66zh25eyG45wfCJCaggl4bIz3MqnJR4RG0tofcXwCUEQXhy0LYfpEr/s320/DSC01636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Voila! It was a piggy bank. Was I surprised? Does Santa have elves? I grabbed that teapot so quick and put it under my arm so no one could take it from me. I scurried to the cashier and out the door with the biggest smile on my face. You see, I have a soft spot for piggy banks that are unusual, types that a person would not normally see. This one made my day. Hope it made your day as well and that you enjoyed my treasure.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-48616508034799579962010-11-04T11:42:00.000-04:002010-11-04T11:42:02.813-04:00Quilt Block Swaps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxQCXQQXW5Yqvq-21JZniVj8anP-0G-YO_wMnjaaB3SClPrIMBo1vW3nZ9jsZ_1bv2xQZZsXfFz6PEMd0d3ivYm4Tds4vPA2SJZKL5L6juG-S9d989tnsy7rEry-TzSdYRdCToP_T3l7n/s1600/Aussie+Swap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxQCXQQXW5Yqvq-21JZniVj8anP-0G-YO_wMnjaaB3SClPrIMBo1vW3nZ9jsZ_1bv2xQZZsXfFz6PEMd0d3ivYm4Tds4vPA2SJZKL5L6juG-S9d989tnsy7rEry-TzSdYRdCToP_T3l7n/s320/Aussie+Swap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I wanted to show you the block I have mailed to Sue. She is my new friend from the <a href="http://www.quiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Australian Block Swap. </a>The button is on my left sidebar. In this particular swap you tell your partner your desired block pattern and colour preference. Sue told me she wanted "shabby chic" fabric using pinks and greens made into a star block. The actual star block pattern was left up to me. I hope my version of "shabby chic" is what Sue had envisioned. I really enjoyed working with these fabrics as it was a "new" experience for me. I wonder who my partner will be next month?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ULQtMZClBToYqXrRgPWtLgcVNYSe6moYm_skoG-46YWpKis1lyvrUdd7DwDn_Vi20Jn2LHAjENAfDxcO1QBoWXvfbRmBT0Ch1ULyGawQYLXnE-ywj2fhfRAGDyVkUBj_XP1P-xV5xYcB/s1600/DSC02636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ULQtMZClBToYqXrRgPWtLgcVNYSe6moYm_skoG-46YWpKis1lyvrUdd7DwDn_Vi20Jn2LHAjENAfDxcO1QBoWXvfbRmBT0Ch1ULyGawQYLXnE-ywj2fhfRAGDyVkUBj_XP1P-xV5xYcB/s320/DSC02636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This is also something I worked on. This particular fairy square was sent to me by my new friend, Lynne. She is my partner in the <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> group and that group has a program (one of many) called Mosaic Colour Play. This is an ongoing swap in which your partner sends you a centre square of their choice and your job is to complete the block how ever you deem and send the completed block back to your partner.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI563G8if06AHW-2hX6jsIUgHmW4L018sm5Fga3FV8sRUOuv3HngaUjB0-XWVqmfG_ILzce7HAKf0LXo0IajVwQxTlmdk1v8VGLYxxDS_LYw-rG0B3iqyImzyjwT55Y2Bxu4bOAbee8e9c/s1600/DSC02630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI563G8if06AHW-2hX6jsIUgHmW4L018sm5Fga3FV8sRUOuv3HngaUjB0-XWVqmfG_ILzce7HAKf0LXo0IajVwQxTlmdk1v8VGLYxxDS_LYw-rG0B3iqyImzyjwT55Y2Bxu4bOAbee8e9c/s320/DSC02630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I decided to showcase the fairy so I chose fabric that would not take any beauty away from the centre square. I did not want the surrounding fabric to be more dominant than the square and yet still have the fabrics coordinating in colour. By the way, the block is lying on the carpet so discount the beige. This is the block I mailed back to Lynne. I hope she approves.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eTnOmsJKl9PbWxr7_xoUQhAd75kF3_ZDaDwnIyWPU5vTopqdo_1MJsqqBk5ceXEtra7cOYnns_m8wLL8lRPB0RR6msoLmzJIlXTNwoAsHo4AsYoDt1sgEfFcLKo46M5ss9wE3UMvm4cv/s1600/DSC02626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eTnOmsJKl9PbWxr7_xoUQhAd75kF3_ZDaDwnIyWPU5vTopqdo_1MJsqqBk5ceXEtra7cOYnns_m8wLL8lRPB0RR6msoLmzJIlXTNwoAsHo4AsYoDt1sgEfFcLKo46M5ss9wE3UMvm4cv/s320/DSC02626.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hope you like your hexagon, Jorie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
This is my newest swap. You can find the button on the top leftside bar. It is a hexagon exchange called <a href="http://www.quiltjane.blogspot.com/p/inchy-flower-swap.html">Inchy Flower Swap</a> in which you make one hexagon and mail it to your partner. Your partner tells you what colour family she desires for the flower "petals" and centre square. This is also an ongoing exchange and is still open to participants. This hexagon I mailed to my new friend, Jorie. She had asked for citrus colours for the petals with a white or tone on tone centre. If you have ever wondered if you might like to try your hand at making a hexagon now is the time. One a month is all you have to make for this exchange. Everyone finds them very relaxing to make and very addictive as well. Hexagons are very portable and do not need much fabric so if you are on a tight budget this little gem is just the thing for you. I've even read where a quilter was making them at work during lunch because it cut back her desire to eat as much and she was getting her sewing done before she got home. What a painless and fun way to diet!<br />
<br />
I am in the middle of making another block for the Christmas block exchange which I'll show you in the next post. I must say I am enjoying the swaps and look forward to participating every month because new friendships are developed, whether for a short duration or lifetime, and quilting ideas are exchanged.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-7043906295995904562010-11-01T08:52:00.000-04:002010-11-01T08:52:58.462-04:00International Friendship<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wybX_5tBllGCsBBwx67-dvDL0HwxgrLD1UxB5eZ26ei6TRxLADW0F7LtoFdTULjQER1K3esxBIAzAxxr_fsyL-GadW9Bvk4kUG8fzUK4poT04fp1I6QK3dykO_LYz_Bj2wg5idqDuysI/s1600/Folded+Star+Pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wybX_5tBllGCsBBwx67-dvDL0HwxgrLD1UxB5eZ26ei6TRxLADW0F7LtoFdTULjQER1K3esxBIAzAxxr_fsyL-GadW9Bvk4kUG8fzUK4poT04fp1I6QK3dykO_LYz_Bj2wg5idqDuysI/s320/Folded+Star+Pillow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A few posts ago I mentioned I had signed up with the <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> and that they had an extensive program which anyone could participate in. The <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> leaves it to the individual how involved they want to be. They have swaps, chatrooms, BOMs, Christmas programs, and so on. Have a look at their site by clicking on their logo which you will find upper left sidebar or the link above. I thought I would show you what I made in one of the programs offered called FOLDED STAR. <br />
This pillow is a small 14" version with a single folded star in the centre. The pattern the <a href="http://www.internationalfriendshipquilters.com/">IFQ</a> supplied was for a larger 16" pillow with 4 folded stars in the centre. I changed the pattern slightly by adding the triangles in the corners to give the pillow a balanced look because I had only one folded star. This pillow was made with my car in mind. Another program I signed on for is an ongoing block swap. I will show you those blocks in the future when I have more as I've just recently signed up. That particular block swap you start by sending your partner a 4.5" square and she makes the actual block and sends it back to you. Everyone makes the same block pattern which is easy enough for a beginner to sew. I hope I've piqued your interest in taking a look. You might like what you find there.<br />
<br />
THANK YOU<br />
I entered a giveaway put on by lovely <a href="http://www.oneygirl-myquiltingadventure.blogspot.com/">Leona</a> and I won! I'll show everyone in a post when the prize arrives. Thank you , Leona, for sponsoring the giveaway and your generosity.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-24688022740313913912010-10-29T07:36:00.000-04:002010-10-29T07:36:22.042-04:00True Spooky StoryThis is a true story. I am relating the facts as they happened. My friends were driving home from a Hallow'een party. The party was located in the country not far from the city where they lived. They made sure not to indulge because the police were out doing spot checks on cars coupled with the fact driving on country roads at night you have to have your wits about you. The roads are not lit with street lighting as you have in the city and anything could happen if you are not careful especially when you are unsure of the bends and turns. Back to my story and please try to picture this as you read along keeping in mind we are in farm country with rolling hills and thick forests. My friends were driving along the road and saw what looked like a man walking towards them in the distance. They thought it a bit strange that a person should be out so late walking but thought he might be walking home from a costume party and lived nearby. Because the man was walking towards them the car headlights shone not only on the road but on the man as well. When they got a bit closer they saw he had on a long, black cloak like you would see in the early 1800's with the hood pulled over his head. They could not yet see him clearly. As they got closer to him they were able to see that, indeed, he had on a long cloak and shoes that also looked as if they belonged in the 1800's. The car headlights now shone fully on the man as they passed him. Both did not say a word to each other for several miles. Finally the one friend says "Did you see him?". The other answered "Yes, I did". The first one said "Did you see he had no head nor face"? The second one said"Yes, I did". They drove home in total silence. That, my friends, really happened. I thought I would pass this on to you because Hallow'een is approaching and I love spooky stories, especially ones that are true. I hope more people reveal them in their blogs over the Hallow'een period. When I was young I used to scare myself silly with spooky movies and spooky stories. I could never say "no" to either and just walk away. Happy Hallow'een everyone.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-39249015129118999722010-10-26T18:53:00.000-04:002010-10-26T18:53:11.906-04:00Hexagon Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxfSrDEqInEH-JDBPxLMKudMCX-V2yOmSPgbwFM5SmtC2t0-Kw9pRU84ndK7wApyPNfEEP40pMDU7HR2vOc0Vr2eoKC5yocyerbGOWArF1WdptkieRNI7ZXWFpSvRwmHVe-lI3v4SgpOJ/s1600/DSC02488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxfSrDEqInEH-JDBPxLMKudMCX-V2yOmSPgbwFM5SmtC2t0-Kw9pRU84ndK7wApyPNfEEP40pMDU7HR2vOc0Vr2eoKC5yocyerbGOWArF1WdptkieRNI7ZXWFpSvRwmHVe-lI3v4SgpOJ/s320/DSC02488.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>BooHooHoo. Sniff! My hexagon box is empty. I am feeling so forlorn right now. I'll have a good cry and then get on to cutting more fabric for making more friends. Surely they'll appear by the end of the day. Am I wishing too hard? I think I'm starting to feel better already. What do I spy with my little eyes, peeking at me from around the corner?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci7pcjTSVrR2_QhvLEQH6lQxcHu8v1Cy9HQ9sMEiFuk07ym4n5ddrNE34c_tegSWzynT5SaDctLHpljRUODdd8DeiGZYftTaKAHxo61lXdTBgTF7P4dzL_sU4GzEjZkryV47ZaSj5taJa/s1600/DSC02492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhci7pcjTSVrR2_QhvLEQH6lQxcHu8v1Cy9HQ9sMEiFuk07ym4n5ddrNE34c_tegSWzynT5SaDctLHpljRUODdd8DeiGZYftTaKAHxo61lXdTBgTF7P4dzL_sU4GzEjZkryV47ZaSj5taJa/s320/DSC02492.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Why it's one of my friends! I had faith things would work out for me today. Since I have one friend now I know there will be more friends to show you next time. Please visit me again to find out who appeared. By the way, If you are wondering why all the threads, it is because I sew it the English way and the paper is still in.<br />
<br />
Santa Came Early<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ixEBXyM-4hxiCZP0GGWVylTaiUiaBTjcN8zY9M8BIz6HHmW0PWyRefV0SFHf3XsUIjIyNSIT0q-cJ6c5c4KyUVwTuDabi_8Pw9T8jV0R3wtfEviycb84UC9WtH4sjdugBvQzJ2gPCksz/s1600/DSC02566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ixEBXyM-4hxiCZP0GGWVylTaiUiaBTjcN8zY9M8BIz6HHmW0PWyRefV0SFHf3XsUIjIyNSIT0q-cJ6c5c4KyUVwTuDabi_8Pw9T8jV0R3wtfEviycb84UC9WtH4sjdugBvQzJ2gPCksz/s320/DSC02566.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My DH came back from the mailbox and handed me this envelope. I thought "I wasn't expecting anything". I opened it and found this inside. Was I amazed!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNnz9fBtlWfRzgwAGsIL70RED_C2E-qKtftb7gNMMJIZUu6E20qEczBGRIxAIQWhZyqKyy5npBZpd_g6wzguayKQO7Lzvg5tH2aESEG-nlw64AekDWpwMvY8A1vc9LC5UHqFF0w6ofxXW/s1600/DSC02569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNnz9fBtlWfRzgwAGsIL70RED_C2E-qKtftb7gNMMJIZUu6E20qEczBGRIxAIQWhZyqKyy5npBZpd_g6wzguayKQO7Lzvg5tH2aESEG-nlw64AekDWpwMvY8A1vc9LC5UHqFF0w6ofxXW/s320/DSC02569.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I had read other blogs and how quilters were receiving gifts just because of a small favour or act of kindness done for someone they did not know. How touched I was that it happened to me for such a simple gesture I willingly did. It was <a href="http://www.oneygirl-myquiltingadventure.blogspot.com/">Leona</a> that sent me the unexpected gift and I will treasure it always. I thank you very much, Leona, for your kindness. As I told Leona, butterflies have been on my list of quilts to make so as I am making it I will be thinking of her.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-6174280968466226702010-10-24T21:20:00.000-04:002010-10-24T21:20:31.772-04:00Quilt Block Swaps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLijNNwX9bkzeYSg57vL9ODlJkuFasKfUGIAKfe3XQdo9CH2BNYx3p15FrSeIixr8ViV19htiaJvsKPHsc3qBl7-0csIW5g8GlcQcJ5m-I5h3wyT3anL4t33zcRZa2KOaZJKeQcBmGkc_h/s1600/Craftys+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLijNNwX9bkzeYSg57vL9ODlJkuFasKfUGIAKfe3XQdo9CH2BNYx3p15FrSeIixr8ViV19htiaJvsKPHsc3qBl7-0csIW5g8GlcQcJ5m-I5h3wyT3anL4t33zcRZa2KOaZJKeQcBmGkc_h/s320/Craftys+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As I mentioned previously I joined a <a href="http://www.quiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Quilting Block Swap</a> not too long ago. I wanted to show you what I just received from my new friend Crafty Pug. The block flew in all the way from Australia and I am very happy it did. I had asked Crafty Pug for a Log Cabin block using black, white and some red and this is what she made for me. Isn't it a treasure! As you can tell I'm enjoying this swap immensely because you make so many new global friends. I don't know if all swaps are the same (because this is my first) but you can specify what colours you would like used and which block you would like as well. The swap is still open to participants so why not click on the logo on my left sidebar to be connected or the link above. It won't take a minute to have a look around once you're there. I think you'll like what you see and sign up. It's painless too.<br />
<br />
Christmas in October<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZ-9QePX98A03957pvQlqDy9SK4vNoxQ9Xzj84-UGypfKjPr869anc-Y9DGBkz0tiGwPS1IUXJY3OIeh4fvHjPK61z8VYT0Lp3_M6NATursHrHYg9mwJW-xMbPCOATZ55gz5LzdP2o9nQ/s1600/DSC02307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZ-9QePX98A03957pvQlqDy9SK4vNoxQ9Xzj84-UGypfKjPr869anc-Y9DGBkz0tiGwPS1IUXJY3OIeh4fvHjPK61z8VYT0Lp3_M6NATursHrHYg9mwJW-xMbPCOATZ55gz5LzdP2o9nQ/s320/DSC02307.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I also joined another block swap called <a href="http://www.christmasquiltingblockswapsaustralia.blogspot.com/">Christmas Quilting Blocks Swaps Australia.</a> This is for all of you that love it to be Christmas year round. In this swap you tell your partner what your block preferences are and here I'm showing you Linda's block. She lives in Georgia so I think I'm safe in posting her block as I sent it off last week. She had requested a Snow Ball block in modern Christmas fabric with a character of some kind in the centre. I just happened to have the three turtle doves in a Christmas ornament style so I used that and embroidered a hanger on the ornament. This swap is open to participants as well and it's a lot of fun as you can see. If you love Christmas, as I do, I think you'll enjoy this monthly exchange. Just click on the link above or the the button on my left side bar to be connected. My hope is that I will eventually be partnered with all of you.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-2205356543462072712010-10-22T09:04:00.000-04:002010-10-22T09:04:54.466-04:00My Prized Pincushion<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2X90cY5GUQ9SMa9RSWgiB7Z6SDQDUqy7lC_eEXcqCW03OdY7SJq4x430MDA930lAgcRo1YjjU33BqnrN7xdMw2JVlaRixlohIq0QF9MR3egB7CBsiU-BC2nCjelcH4IDJnLkNTv7uABV/s320/DSC02377.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click on the image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2X90cY5GUQ9SMa9RSWgiB7Z6SDQDUqy7lC_eEXcqCW03OdY7SJq4x430MDA930lAgcRo1YjjU33BqnrN7xdMw2JVlaRixlohIq0QF9MR3egB7CBsiU-BC2nCjelcH4IDJnLkNTv7uABV/s1600/DSC02377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>I was absolutely thrilled when the postman delivered the gift I won from my friend <a href="http://fatesdesigns.blogspot.com/">Cheryl</a>. She had hosted a giveaway a while back and I was the lucky winner. My angels must have been with me that day because I usually don't win. The pincushion took several weeks to arrive from the USA (which is not unusual ) and I wanted to wait until it was delivered before I told you about my good fortune. <a href="http://fatesdesigns.blogspot.com/">Cheryl</a> used wool for the design and embroidery embellishment to finish it. I just love it to pieces. It now holds a prominent position in my sewing room. I placed it so it is in view at all times whether I'm sewing or cutting. Here are a few shots taken as I pan around the pincushion. Starting with the upper right edge.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNSFIjLlbWEd9yqOx7XRlYSkenndRLlh8FloZv1mMonT47NTBEiDKKba5OOqRpiACgK4abq245G9mRrK8rH_CLdbkA8fBDkn3AF0qL3FSV8puZKAustHIj8CkzdXWEbnDaXyJ_KPR_esE/s200/DSC02380.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my favourite shot because I love lady bugs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTILOs46_IzY5DIThBSizv_ExoYemPnAT5IIKAJpOvWum74rNrpVOVF7QKMtE2ZcUhMsd6bhtqL8DoWibmGyH6agKBJSlVLoX5A0rudYdCMJdr_9gurEdavupfQPgW3Q3cspHpomUP2elS/s1600/DSC02381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0hDGSs0-xIMbcxTI6qPuqSwCYJ-ICsUbwHF5pNW8UIpEkqhl43h4z2riPFLkJDEykuHaEtg1DIOn7OiK4G5JIoXUyhNf_6gQleAwLRf4jX5zEiJa5LHkMgse3XofQapxoiCbLDSGyo1O/s200/DSC02382.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such small detailing on the pumpkins. It must have been difficult to sew.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0hDGSs0-xIMbcxTI6qPuqSwCYJ-ICsUbwHF5pNW8UIpEkqhl43h4z2riPFLkJDEykuHaEtg1DIOn7OiK4G5JIoXUyhNf_6gQleAwLRf4jX5zEiJa5LHkMgse3XofQapxoiCbLDSGyo1O/s1600/DSC02382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTILOs46_IzY5DIThBSizv_ExoYemPnAT5IIKAJpOvWum74rNrpVOVF7QKMtE2ZcUhMsd6bhtqL8DoWibmGyH6agKBJSlVLoX5A0rudYdCMJdr_9gurEdavupfQPgW3Q3cspHpomUP2elS/s200/DSC02381.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't he cute? Reminds me of "The Wizard of Oz".</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYP1HPcMv3Nh_i8iVxMEHtz_ggplelChf49fumvz8yFafoFU4Jx_1f42m5Ca91GGYYVVXCjvamUxvHRyz1M18is0CUY4rAsw2lIl744Y9L7JM_SA_eI1M-_SjlWDqBau9Q2BaEB3ZMWl_Q/s200/DSC02383.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely flower to finish off the scene.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYP1HPcMv3Nh_i8iVxMEHtz_ggplelChf49fumvz8yFafoFU4Jx_1f42m5Ca91GGYYVVXCjvamUxvHRyz1M18is0CUY4rAsw2lIl744Y9L7JM_SA_eI1M-_SjlWDqBau9Q2BaEB3ZMWl_Q/s1600/DSC02383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> I thank you, Cheryl, for the lovely pincushion and glad you had the giveaway. By the by, I'm sorry for the spaces between the photos. I wish Blogger was more user friendly when it comes to image implant. Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-86949760930911332022010-10-19T16:35:00.000-04:002010-10-19T16:35:36.887-04:00Hexagon Wednesday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-Kj46pWRtT0Bqzji3qi18KXmkLdLrFVTMy8pbkSN-xdR8HfQg_q_AfbpwjTMRNYZ-zj96tT9EEt-E4VL85NEe4LJraNerlUUAUeoEFFo5_ZChfXHwTF5zpJXNoV_9nJfg8MxfEQ34F6s/s320/DSC02370.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click on image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-Kj46pWRtT0Bqzji3qi18KXmkLdLrFVTMy8pbkSN-xdR8HfQg_q_AfbpwjTMRNYZ-zj96tT9EEt-E4VL85NEe4LJraNerlUUAUeoEFFo5_ZChfXHwTF5zpJXNoV_9nJfg8MxfEQ34F6s/s1600/DSC02370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>This week I was working with fabrics that are not my usual style. I like to work with reproduction fabrics whether from the mid 1800's America or English floral. As you can see, the fabrics I used were in the opposite direction and very graphic looking to me. I don't know what came over me but I thought it would be nice for a change and as Martha always says "That's a good thing". These four hexagons took no time to sew together while my DH was driving. An issue came up during this trip and I hope all of you reading this post will help me solve the conundrum. When I finish my hexagon I check how tight the stitches are. Some of the stitching would be easier to pull apart than others. Not by very much but enough that I started using two methods of sewing the hexagons together as a test. I used the whipstitch and the blanket stitch. What I would like to know from you is if there is a stitch that is almost unseen on the right side of the hexagon and the stitches hold the fabric so tight that when you try to pull the pieces apart you still can not see any stitches on the right side. Is there such a stitch? If you know, please leave me a comment. In the meantime I'll continue as I am and hope you enjoy my flowers.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-16220253022660650802010-10-17T08:22:00.000-04:002010-10-17T08:22:35.763-04:00Friday Night Sew InI just signed up for the FNSI this past Friday. You are suppose to close the door on the world and work on whatever the spirit moves in you. It is left up to you to decide how long you want to spend in sewing, crafting and what you sew and craft. You can even sew in your pajamas if you so wish. I was not sure if FNSI was something I would participate in on a regular basis because I am not a night person when it comes to sewing. I decided to give it a try. Remember that blob I showed you several posts ago? My neice's wedding dress? Well it was now past calling out to me. It was screaming at me to start working on it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLX9Pf4y7X6Xg8atxrdUQiKokzdBftu-x4lN2dfBcQat72M3KgiM1PRTiXcWD0GyKsS0UCxuZaHSW7IhK1es0zCn-XIIvrzxsbTRvl9Pt1GYHeP-0ZA2wVVUuI0Zmj28TAKWAVKn-djz0/s1600/DSC02212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLX9Pf4y7X6Xg8atxrdUQiKokzdBftu-x4lN2dfBcQat72M3KgiM1PRTiXcWD0GyKsS0UCxuZaHSW7IhK1es0zCn-XIIvrzxsbTRvl9Pt1GYHeP-0ZA2wVVUuI0Zmj28TAKWAVKn-djz0/s200/DSC02212.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I did not start on FNSI until 8:30pm because my day was jam packed so this wedding dress was the prefect project. I thought it would be ripped apart in no time. Using my sharpest scissors I slashed out the zipper and then the poking started. That dress was sewn, double sewn and triple sewn in places. It had interlining, underlining, bodice stakes, rings and every other thing known to man. The only part I slowed the slashing down for was the beads and embroidery. It took 1 1/4 hours to finish the job and I was exhausted. Needles to say I did not go on to another project. I now have 3 piles of wedding dress instead of 1 but am happy the job was done. I will try FNSI another time but will work on something more constructive.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dinhqSgs_oQyORevltuKqKUm_kjyGIqQJEswwMh4H6LvT4B-5F0FF8yitWcdR5ZCaYG1eES2IX_HWRmp2gubxjjv17pqWPw99KH0EqmmTNmkADNg_j7EAwsjH-RSMFSCCdBJj_BsQQuA/s1600/DSC02323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dinhqSgs_oQyORevltuKqKUm_kjyGIqQJEswwMh4H6LvT4B-5F0FF8yitWcdR5ZCaYG1eES2IX_HWRmp2gubxjjv17pqWPw99KH0EqmmTNmkADNg_j7EAwsjH-RSMFSCCdBJj_BsQQuA/s200/DSC02323.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-59075010425073327942010-10-13T08:22:00.000-04:002010-10-13T08:22:39.427-04:00Hexagon Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq5Z3MvczH_HxUd43LKmqZkLxO8WgJ7tTDnrCkrJeTPa6uji-eVjOabCmFNLJXff9KFMg-ItuA83W6H7s3YUONYAxT12AGLjb7qT9wJ7jg329NbzEiNk03mW-0ncBHOdFYlLp9qbxRHx_/s1600/DSC02189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq5Z3MvczH_HxUd43LKmqZkLxO8WgJ7tTDnrCkrJeTPa6uji-eVjOabCmFNLJXff9KFMg-ItuA83W6H7s3YUONYAxT12AGLjb7qT9wJ7jg329NbzEiNk03mW-0ncBHOdFYlLp9qbxRHx_/s320/DSC02189.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUfcTpchJtE-62t8QjpVCbxzi_tkiWrvUTa5mIm2_LT3A7LzxIjQwCu2Hx0XMKImIzgesHlylyg1eMvmfOEZ_4x99BcWeLm3FP_3hJy_sg3D1_tp8w_WfXUgKRGgTeER4AFmnk7r3Noka/s1600/DSC02300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUfcTpchJtE-62t8QjpVCbxzi_tkiWrvUTa5mIm2_LT3A7LzxIjQwCu2Hx0XMKImIzgesHlylyg1eMvmfOEZ_4x99BcWeLm3FP_3hJy_sg3D1_tp8w_WfXUgKRGgTeER4AFmnk7r3Noka/s200/DSC02300.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>"Mary, Mary quite contrary how does your garden grow? With silver bells and cockle shells and pretty maids all in a row." TaDa. Here I present to you my pretty maids since I saw you last. My garden is starting to take over my house! That's an inside joke. Last week I sat in front of the TV one night and cut out 200 paper pieces to have ready. That only took 2 hours but I did have a sore thumb and fingers and thought it was time to order in the precut paper templates. As you can see I'm using only what scraps I have on hand for my flowers which is one of the challenges to myself. I have decided that 2010 is the year I deplete my scrap stash. I don't have much compared to some of you in the Blogosphere but am happy nevertheless to use whatever I find. Since I have never made a scrap quilt (all of mine have been totally coordinated) I find it a bit difficult at the moment because the urge to coordinate is still there but I am making progress using the Hexagon as a "cutting edge tool of technology" to help me along with a laissez-faire attitude. Hope you all enjoy my flowers.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-53076824419100097792010-10-12T10:09:00.000-04:002010-10-12T10:09:50.634-04:00Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGgZWklBr_5qzYXHGGDHelce8FugTmwBIt91xugXz19rzN7kiSxv7hhBEdfNbLIfvrIVPgl_lIcMiwpRqpFfDHtEvabAwF8u-HZ1Tf6hyma_OaFMsEEPya5GpMZzQiz3lMM9Bd2TeWClT/s1600/DSC02285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSP8qHx36EzQQqh385I5kZkOAGSYl2XMu8Ui-xHUp0cmYNaA7Vdms1WXMsATZBTipxpNLWzSbzHb630RcjG3APGb4ZJu9szHnvBBZEjZ4Pz4c0pc3mmrnwegYOmDN8plSmSK7KuJwCQnA/s1600/DSC02280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSP8qHx36EzQQqh385I5kZkOAGSYl2XMu8Ui-xHUp0cmYNaA7Vdms1WXMsATZBTipxpNLWzSbzHb630RcjG3APGb4ZJu9szHnvBBZEjZ4Pz4c0pc3mmrnwegYOmDN8plSmSK7KuJwCQnA/s200/DSC02280.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our 24lb. Turkey</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Here in Canada we celebrated Thanksgiving and what a marvelous weekend it was. For us it is a time for family gatherings and lots of shameless over indulgence. I certainly did my part to make sure the practice continued. I had not one but two Thanksgiving meals and I don't mind telling you I was thankful (in more ways than one). My DH and I also contributed to the food bank drive so that others less fortunate could celebrate. This year will be a difficult one for food banks to make ends meet, I'm sure. The weather was another thing I was thankful for. It was so gorgeous, sunny and warm. How gorgeous do you ask? Well more gorgeous than a human should be allowed to have. My DH and I included a long walk (2.5 miles) in the local forest on Saturday so we would not miss out on the last of the beautiful colours. If you had asked me this weekend what I was thankful for I would have given you a short reply. I am thankful I can still get out of bed in the morning, with curiosity and anticipation, ready to tackle anything the day brings me.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymRHtiJL-K8NSR0opJQq0l_Aubxhm0r9C_W8boDizoqiQN0NCyyNBLdzWopZjpscxl8T4o5gSy38n6JidsxUQWjivrBeuheG_hdlBFZskXRKfSq2XrCUDJ0uD7jtP9hZ1DFPWEA4Tn-o_/s200/DSC02284.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this is "before" dinner</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I thought I would leave you with a photo I took before dinner. I always like to take two. The "before" and "after" shots. I'm only showing you the "before" and keeping the "after" photo for myself. It's a private little thing I do. I want to be able to look back in later years and smile, knowing that a good time was had by all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymRHtiJL-K8NSR0opJQq0l_Aubxhm0r9C_W8boDizoqiQN0NCyyNBLdzWopZjpscxl8T4o5gSy38n6JidsxUQWjivrBeuheG_hdlBFZskXRKfSq2XrCUDJ0uD7jtP9hZ1DFPWEA4Tn-o_/s1600/DSC02284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-33465320377813022002010-10-11T08:33:00.000-04:002010-10-11T08:33:04.352-04:00Brown Bag Ugly Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fMFoVEAh_EIkxVlmP5_Djz6-itWgDVn0-0O7mohcTvbRu0QrKtRqHbptAWjk5mRSCtdKU8yK2J8HwpXWZ7AL7WnxXQdJGcbt1czTDT6fV5IOBsezfcSIiNITrEbLWHDaygwDtZztGBat/s1600/DSC02240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fMFoVEAh_EIkxVlmP5_Djz6-itWgDVn0-0O7mohcTvbRu0QrKtRqHbptAWjk5mRSCtdKU8yK2J8HwpXWZ7AL7WnxXQdJGcbt1czTDT6fV5IOBsezfcSIiNITrEbLWHDaygwDtZztGBat/s200/DSC02240.JPG" width="200" /></a>I was beginning to worry that my Brown Bag Ugly Challenge fabric was lost in the mail but the postman delivered it the other day. If some of you have been wondering what that Brown Bag button on my left sidebar was about I would be not only happy to explain but I'll show you now that I have the fabric. The point of the challenge was to go into your stash and choose a selection of fabric, no more than 2yds. total, that you thought was ugly or that you knew you would never use. Send it to the person you were partnered with and she would do likewise. This was what I received from my partner <a href="http://www.alwaysexpectmoore.com/">Carolina</a>. Holding my breath like a kid at Christmas I opened my parcel. The inside wrapper was taped with lovely "tulips" and this was what the wrapper unveiled.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfMV5LbIOOAlrwLqjjw_LO_ZJXgJ1ZXgJSypOaH4zyUqo6K5BoVdbXcwBg2DvGuau7KGmxg-F7HGGjsARZH6tyIJ1QOQxpU1EzFL0KALk9TEWczJtcNY2o7v9Mt9f59C71QQ_dC8TUhVr/s1600/DSC02242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfMV5LbIOOAlrwLqjjw_LO_ZJXgJ1ZXgJSypOaH4zyUqo6K5BoVdbXcwBg2DvGuau7KGmxg-F7HGGjsARZH6tyIJ1QOQxpU1EzFL0KALk9TEWczJtcNY2o7v9Mt9f59C71QQ_dC8TUhVr/s320/DSC02242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I was completely surprised. It was love at first sight. Thank you, very much <a href="http://www.alwaysexpectmoore.com/">Carolina</a>. Who could not love this fabric? It is Paula Nadelstern's Luminosity line and the instant I saw it I knew it would fit very well into my plans. I can't reveal to you at the moment what that plan is because the project isn't due until next year but suffice to say that the yellow fits very nicely into my pattern. This fabric will become a quilt of my own design. Back to <a href="http://alwaysexpectmoore.com/">Carolina</a>. Not only did I receive this fabric but she also made a lovely bag for me as a gift and included a pretty card.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZug4YbV_0l67_c2OEAKYQrNR1zrpvwCeRkB8rjoCE2iR7QDSnSElCFFtzfFlHCtGXpvtvewzLOuFUBUXxzAPdS-lmYsr9Vw8UI1SZY7DRQJx4yZ7kQ9OxJmxaPiTIbBUnPaIhbVzcKAt/s1600/DSC02244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZug4YbV_0l67_c2OEAKYQrNR1zrpvwCeRkB8rjoCE2iR7QDSnSElCFFtzfFlHCtGXpvtvewzLOuFUBUXxzAPdS-lmYsr9Vw8UI1SZY7DRQJx4yZ7kQ9OxJmxaPiTIbBUnPaIhbVzcKAt/s320/DSC02244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>All in all I was glad I signed up for this challenge and am looking forward to seeing all the finished projects next year on the Flickr site. Remember to click on the images if you want a closer look. Sew-long till next post.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-40566741321349327212010-10-08T08:42:00.000-04:002010-10-08T08:42:03.987-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDc7shUUWW0Ln-pEfJYQOc0Y3pjrq84LQngnbzKvrJxk45sLoxsDMlj3yuw1BdB3XWzwatTzVO5LTb7gwhDn22S0o2HVeVdajEjz2CGwx6B3TReDMOEMxnvH7GyOpqOHuflQPTXrh6xofL/s1600/DSC02238cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDc7shUUWW0Ln-pEfJYQOc0Y3pjrq84LQngnbzKvrJxk45sLoxsDMlj3yuw1BdB3XWzwatTzVO5LTb7gwhDn22S0o2HVeVdajEjz2CGwx6B3TReDMOEMxnvH7GyOpqOHuflQPTXrh6xofL/s200/DSC02238cropped.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Yesterday I mentioned I now belong to the IFQ (button on left sidebar) where you could make many new quilting friends. I wanted to show you what I made for my new friend ,Terry, in England. The event at IFQ is called Mosaic Play. Each participant sends their partner the centre fabric patch. That partner completes the block and sends it back. Terry sent me the centre fabric patch of the block and included this lovely card which I've decided to put in a "memory book". <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBlpXrNHq0Wxcp1_D_00DXt7AIH_4F69DNX_KhNOqNm6ysVJsv8i3QE46pj6QI_lgv3cyDEHN7hymsoqNBYJ5FDG9F3BwusQ51DAP-_0AFnosQd3q_-TmHBm6RVDoNXM9pji3DOwfgWfX/s1600/DSC02239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBlpXrNHq0Wxcp1_D_00DXt7AIH_4F69DNX_KhNOqNm6ysVJsv8i3QE46pj6QI_lgv3cyDEHN7hymsoqNBYJ5FDG9F3BwusQ51DAP-_0AFnosQd3q_-TmHBm6RVDoNXM9pji3DOwfgWfX/s200/DSC02239.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I used fabric from my stash to complete the block while at the same time trying to bring out the "beauty" of the centre fabric patch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCcCJhLp-m70KXXIT8LP8yx8MiS2I_wIXOWIXEgdJgqkCPHr2bC5p8ZYHAOY3CKhpGjaaqI9R6_OhhR7VFLi-35_g2BmkwChL0sl29hxV4I9Ksb2qSeCNqO1gG72m1JrPFdh1-G8Z3fmq/s1600/DSC02264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCcCJhLp-m70KXXIT8LP8yx8MiS2I_wIXOWIXEgdJgqkCPHr2bC5p8ZYHAOY3CKhpGjaaqI9R6_OhhR7VFLi-35_g2BmkwChL0sl29hxV4I9Ksb2qSeCNqO1gG72m1JrPFdh1-G8Z3fmq/s200/DSC02264.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>So here you see what I had accomplished to this point when the designing wheels fell off. I could not decide which colour I should use next.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uoJEpHYYpZBuf3rZw1XeaiuUC1RQxwNwIZg4xFOJy6BDDVR3d5OXKFpgJ6R6Q6Wl2nFe_3bQOaPHhAHTERi3gce6fssiPLywQQrNkURnKhyphenhyphen8SzY9zNA7H4tf0lyVs8YxmCzV2My582MY/s1600/DSC02266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uoJEpHYYpZBuf3rZw1XeaiuUC1RQxwNwIZg4xFOJy6BDDVR3d5OXKFpgJ6R6Q6Wl2nFe_3bQOaPHhAHTERi3gce6fssiPLywQQrNkURnKhyphenhyphen8SzY9zNA7H4tf0lyVs8YxmCzV2My582MY/s200/DSC02266.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>At the back of my mind I knew Terry would be using this block in the decorating scheme of her bedroom so I wanted to keep the block soft and restful and toward the turquoise colourway. The dark blue was a better choice for bringing out the centre block but still I wanted the block to have a subtle look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECnzwCdB-7eP7q1Ozolo38QtKvHNV1ZdtF8nxv1-ykC572Jzs61i7D39J8Ecr8Cqa2dXh1m9KzdQdD_lC-lGQIUPfCd5ggL33NfUK2kWSiWBJjboxGFiqmz6FPCMmgEbUAaTbzW-xfFKq/s1600/DSC02273+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECnzwCdB-7eP7q1Ozolo38QtKvHNV1ZdtF8nxv1-ykC572Jzs61i7D39J8Ecr8Cqa2dXh1m9KzdQdD_lC-lGQIUPfCd5ggL33NfUK2kWSiWBJjboxGFiqmz6FPCMmgEbUAaTbzW-xfFKq/s320/DSC02273+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is the end result that should be in Terry's mail box on Monday. I hope she likes it.<br />
Everyone, give some thought to joining IFQ. It's a lot of fun and you'll make new friends.<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving is this weekend in Canada. I wanted to wish my Canadian readers a very happy Thanksgiving and we'll talk "turkey" on Tuesday. Have a dessert for me, please.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-74955626717170030672010-10-07T16:48:00.000-04:002010-10-07T16:48:51.649-04:00Back in the Saddle doing Swaps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Hello everyone! I'm back. I decided it was time to venture into the sewing room to reintroduce myself to my machines. My first line of stitching did not impress me. It looked as if I had forgotten how to sew but in no time at all I was back in the saddle again. As you can see I have several new buttons on my left side bar.The first button belongs to the International Friendship Quilters. If you click on their logo it will connect you to their website. What an extensive program they have. Not only are there block swaps in this group but there are also programs for learning new techniques, a chat room, photo gallery, and special events. Do have a look around their site. I signed on recently and have sent off a block already and made a new friend, Terry in England. The second button belongs to the Australian swap group. This is a block swap in which most of the participants come from "down under" but don't let that stop you from joining them. I signed up recently and have already sent off a block and made another new friend, Crafty in South Australia.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMorBYX3xjJ2njrRD5JI2vGBhxvtQIQS5CDL35j4enRYd68qqvAshIuIXwqtkCo_2barHXxK0hOqOO2ITiSGThQrSgtIItWk_3r-JiYJR0yjghmvWLOCBYusyhZz8RAP_3YnlDoRlc3WZX/s200/DSC02237.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crafty's block</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMorBYX3xjJ2njrRD5JI2vGBhxvtQIQS5CDL35j4enRYd68qqvAshIuIXwqtkCo_2barHXxK0hOqOO2ITiSGThQrSgtIItWk_3r-JiYJR0yjghmvWLOCBYusyhZz8RAP_3YnlDoRlc3WZX/s1600/DSC02237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>What a great bunch they all are. Towards the bottom of my left sidebar you'll see the Christmas Block swap that was just established. In this group you will swap Christmas blocks ALL YEAR round. So if Christmas is your love (like me) then this is the swap to join. Since they are a new group they are looking for more participants to join them. Remember, if you don't want to sew with Christmas fabrics all year round consider joining for only part of the year.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-883581047256510822010-09-30T11:11:00.001-04:002010-10-01T20:08:24.311-04:00News from Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ECPIoUhCXQ6ScdVg7FH7-v8s6MdmH5saS-agZD-rtJm0cH4bL13FHKTzt5gjxOtQ5B2ake3CTVos0c3SRIZkUNisnHsBlVngH_prcO8-KW0nljXzatoHBJ5BVqnhdiWAbuYrNsmlJOj0/s1600/DSC02219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ECPIoUhCXQ6ScdVg7FH7-v8s6MdmH5saS-agZD-rtJm0cH4bL13FHKTzt5gjxOtQ5B2ake3CTVos0c3SRIZkUNisnHsBlVngH_prcO8-KW0nljXzatoHBJ5BVqnhdiWAbuYrNsmlJOj0/s200/DSC02219.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONI6vPDcob9Y7-dKEzoJUjaAcyoC857EXsPaLyaaA2B6ErgHWvLHctz024wTnMXRW_7T2qh14THk5mBF6dJ96Yss35A_Q32DFT_aUQguaapeGAnmnN2WA-jzm-S2_MJ9wmeQmFKVLE1c7/s1600/DSC02223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONI6vPDcob9Y7-dKEzoJUjaAcyoC857EXsPaLyaaA2B6ErgHWvLHctz024wTnMXRW_7T2qh14THk5mBF6dJ96Yss35A_Q32DFT_aUQguaapeGAnmnN2WA-jzm-S2_MJ9wmeQmFKVLE1c7/s320/DSC02223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I have an announcement to make. It is with heavy heart I tell you this realizing all too soon it will come to an end. My golf course is about to CLOSE DOWN! I went golfing yesterday and saw how quickly the trees have changed colour. Our weatherman here in Ontario is predicting an early winter. Of course he could be wrong and I hope he is because I am not looking forward to the white stuff. I didn't want to use the "S" word yet. Sometimes I have been lucky in the past and been able to golf until the first week of December. Let's keep our fingers cross.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPOfIbdETkzE2MLReRfm47NekDfe_uMgwK9JSaXBgBAq9uucRfIlqNMiNL6y8ObLjiT45g-sRZY1iISu0H4ecQzqCtLiEERJW9bkbLQRF5sytH9Wd1VmWXXxRiVb7Zob6ypUxyNeRkw32/s200/DSC02233.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click on image to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPOfIbdETkzE2MLReRfm47NekDfe_uMgwK9JSaXBgBAq9uucRfIlqNMiNL6y8ObLjiT45g-sRZY1iISu0H4ecQzqCtLiEERJW9bkbLQRF5sytH9Wd1VmWXXxRiVb7Zob6ypUxyNeRkw32/s1600/DSC02233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div> ******<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHmTmbcLXKywxyDE7bMhv1xu03mCfbqRGNpqEP1tY0hhpEMJ8rteZBhbUAxJFryMuU-NkyevnY7zVJImzQ89P3i1XSLfgna_lpmI2AEJQZSj1IrY2bSgkLlkvlw6vdptlvvTOy8yA7yRu/s1600/DSC02212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHmTmbcLXKywxyDE7bMhv1xu03mCfbqRGNpqEP1tY0hhpEMJ8rteZBhbUAxJFryMuU-NkyevnY7zVJImzQ89P3i1XSLfgna_lpmI2AEJQZSj1IrY2bSgkLlkvlw6vdptlvvTOy8yA7yRu/s320/DSC02212.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You are probably wondering what this blob of "stuff" is all about. It is lying on the floor waiting for me to have an artistic moment. My niece decided that she wanted something "done" with her wedding dress instead of having it hanging in the back of the closet. At the moment I am removing the beading and lace from the dress so I can determine how much fabric I have to work with and then cut it up into big pieces. She was married 4 years ago so there is no rush to start the project but my deadline is to present the reincarnated piece at Christmas. I do have several ideas at the back of my mind so do come back and visit with me to see how "it's" coming along.Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-13270570411458042542010-09-28T21:17:00.000-04:002010-09-28T21:17:29.514-04:00Hexagon Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubABNyatTTcS-X7q7ohWEod_ySvUMyBTK1uL2Gb0Z6kFUJ-TB9ywPIW8fJwaFIw5IOfL01vTiydJ-3JrjSxqet89BIE1JwEN3lIrv4_VbrQVo0pcX8-r2_mIyVG9-wP5CkrzF8rslqHrF/s1600/DSC02168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubABNyatTTcS-X7q7ohWEod_ySvUMyBTK1uL2Gb0Z6kFUJ-TB9ywPIW8fJwaFIw5IOfL01vTiydJ-3JrjSxqet89BIE1JwEN3lIrv4_VbrQVo0pcX8-r2_mIyVG9-wP5CkrzF8rslqHrF/s400/DSC02168.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>As you know I've joined the Hexagon crowd and I wanted to show you my handy, dandy hexagon transportation device. Wasn't that a mouthful for such a small thing. I found the plastic container 2 weeks ago and nearly dismissed buying it thinking it was not tall enough. I wanted to be able to carry various combinations of tools and fabric so the box had to be flexible and flexible it turns out to be. When I started using it I was reminded of the old adage "never judge a book by its cover". I fell in love with it at the outset and I've posted two photos of possible uses. I'm sure there are many more. It comes with a pullout tray that has the capacity to store quite a few things as you can see. The bottom level is divided into 3 sections that can hold my thread, fabric, sewn "flower petals", pins and scissors. At the moment 2 of the lower sections are full of sewn flower petals. There is also a "break" in one of the lower divisions which enables me to carry a 8" ruler. I can also close the lid on the box while the threads are standing upright and found out by accident I can pick up the box and not have all the contents slip to one end in a big mess. So there you have my latest treasure. Happy Hexagon Wednesday everyone.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoiIMROBQXGnp7ZV-2GHWE_TFJfoCS1RnVI4tCEDlNXRx32PZ5A6EMv5F46NFWj6uCfV2c7a6P6S-G9P8LmcTERdM-nKmdFt5vRB9L5sDiaNXqCPz6ftIw-ZqPGhEQCLMfNrRZ9iAamDl/s1600/DSC02205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoiIMROBQXGnp7ZV-2GHWE_TFJfoCS1RnVI4tCEDlNXRx32PZ5A6EMv5F46NFWj6uCfV2c7a6P6S-G9P8LmcTERdM-nKmdFt5vRB9L5sDiaNXqCPz6ftIw-ZqPGhEQCLMfNrRZ9iAamDl/s400/DSC02205.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4770913540965015691.post-4654059940561371832010-09-25T07:23:00.000-04:002010-09-25T07:23:26.621-04:00New LeafThis week has been a very discombobulated week for me. I was putting out fires every day in my life. Because there was no period of recuperation between events the stress level kept rising. I could not concentrate on the smallest thing, including my blog. I hope that is all behind me now so I can get back to business. I have preached for years people should stop and smell the roses and when the dust settled I realized my angels were telling me in a round about way that I was ignoring my own advise. The first thing I did was revisit my sewing room. It had been neglected for awhile, not used to the extent that it was in the past. I was just dashing in and dashing out with no feeling of inspiration or bonding with my fabric. I felt like a robot that was stressed. I have heard it said that the first step is the hardest. Well, I have now taken that first step and can tell you I feel a tremendous weight has been lifted. I'm going to just sit back, relax and see where that step will take me. Bring it on world!Brigittehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16635952118884658262noreply@blogger.com4