Sun Naturals and Gifts... the Quilty Side

My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software Giveaway

2011-11-15T10:44:00.001-05:00

I know this is a "quilty" blog, and that as followers most of you are quilty people :-) I not only love quilting, but crochet, general sewing and I am trying to improve my knitting skills. I also have several photo scrapbooks made and have been having fun trying the digital scrapbooking. That being said, I have a great My Memories Suite Free Digital Scrapbooking Software Giveaway happening now and so far no takers! Even if you don't make photo scrapbooks I'm sure you know someone who does right? This could be a holiday gift for them, or for yourself! Check out my post HERE for all the details. Winner will be drawn on Friday.

On another note, my Sister and Mom were heading up to Keepsake Quilting in New Hampshire for the day on Sunday. I really mean for the day as it is over two hours from us. We shop, go out to lunch, then back to the store to shop some more! Well, I "tagged along" for the ride as I didn't need anything. Yah Right! Here is what came home with me:

They were having an open house and sale on fat quarters so I had to stock up on those. Then there was some items in the sale room that I'd better get; I'm also a sucker for charm packs, and thanks to Paulette at Sweet P, (a wool afficianado who does lovely work), I am now wanting to try a little wool project so I will start with this cute snowman kit. The yo-yo maker was a gift from the store for their open house. It's the shamrock shape so it can make three-dimentional flowers, so that will be fun too! See Santa in there? Couldn't resist him either :-)

I have some organizing to do in my sewing area and finish another little gift for my new niece who finally arrived last week. Gotta get crackin' and finish some other projects before I can play with this new loot.

Don't forget to check out the giveaway!

Until Next Time,

Happy Veterans Day and Time for a Giveaway

2011-11-11T13:54:00.001-05:00

First off on this very special 11-11-11, a heartfelt THANK YOU to the men and women who serve and sacrifice so we may live our lives in freedom.

So much has happened since my last post. The bad news? I spilled coffee on my laptop this morning YIKES! But techy DH cleaned it up for me and here I am. The good news? I tried to post (unsuccessfuly - I have more to learn) this morning from my new IPad which I WON! How cool is that? I was doing my part and bought raffle tickets for the school's fundraiser. Who'd-a-thought?

I was working on my sample pages to show you for the My Memories Scrapbooking Software Giveaway I promised when I spilled. I have been having a blast playing and here are a couple of pages I have done:

Neither page took very long because the software is so easy to use. What takes some time at first is looking at ALL the pages and elements they have available. The software comes with plenty for you to make nice album pages. However The My Memories Store has tons of themes and ideas to choose from. I find their products very reasonably priced and there's always sales and freebies to download. You might want to check out their new Design Club - definite savings there!

When I think of all the "stuff" I would lug to an organized crop, or just the thought of digging everything out to set up at home I would spend most of my time deciding how to layout my page. I'd be lucky if two pages got done and then it's time to pack it all up again. There's a whole afternoon right there. Fine some days, but I don't have time to do that very often which explains why my 5 yr old's baby book is only partially done! Most of us have our pictures right on our computers so no more waiting for prints before we can start. With My Memories Suite, you can sit down and work on a page a few minutes at a time. You can even do a whole album in no time using one of their quick pages or themed kits. They have layouts pre-made or you can start from scratch and go crazy!

One of the other aspects I like is I am no longer as limited as to how big the album should be. My older albums could only hold a certain number of pages so I would have to choose which photos "made the cut". Now I can put a lot more into a single album.

Oh, and did you notice my new blog header picture? Yep, My Memories! It's not just for scrapbooks!

The team at My Memories has graciously offered to let me give away a copy of their My Memories Version 2 software. You have 6 chances to win:

1. Follow me here at Sun Naturals :-)
2. Follow My Memories Blog where there are tons of tutorials and tips
3. Go to the My Memories website and let me know which paper pack, layout or kit you like
4. Like My Memories on Facebook - lots of contests and giveaways
5. Follow My Memories on Twitter
6. Post, Tweet, or Facebook about my Giveaway - tell all your friends!

You don't have to leave a comment for each item. Just comment telling me what you did; I will put your name in the hat for each chance task you complete. Easier for you instead of leaving me 6 separate comments! Also please make sure I can contact you if you are anonymous or a no-reply blogger. I will draw a winner next Friday, November 18.

If you can't wait for the giveaway and want to get the software right away, click on the My Memories button at the top of my sidebar, then copy and paste the promo code:

STMMMS13266

at checkout to receive $10 discount off the purchase of the software and a $10 coupon to use in the My Memories store. $20 in savings right off the bat!

I am sooo looking forward to getting DD2's baby book done now as well as all the other pages I have yet to do! I'm off to play some more :-)

Until Next Time,

Attention Scrapbook Lovers........

2011-11-05T15:17:00.000-04:00

Coming Soon......

I cannot believe this has happened to me! I have been invited by My Memories to play with their fabulous scrapbooking software and give it a review. The best part is, I get to share a coupon code with you, and soon I will be having a giveaway so you have a chance to WIN the My Memories v2 software for your very own!

I have been scrapbooking (or "cropping" as my friends and I call it) for more than 10 years now. I was a diehard, attending organized crops and twice a year attending a marathon crop where we would get together for 8-9 hours! I have several books made, but once the babies came I found myself with less and less time for it. My youngest is 5 and her baby book has about 3 pages done in it.

We take pictures like crazy, they just seem to stay on the computer and never get printed! Sound familiar? I will fill you in more in my next post, but just in playing with the software for a short while I made this page:

I can't wait to play more with My Memories this weekend and come up with a couple of more pages to show you. If you can't wait to check it out either, feel free to go to My Memories.com, copy and paste the code: STMMMS13266

for $10 off the purchase of the My Memories v2 software, plus another $10 coupon to use for downloads on their website. That's $20 in savings :-) Feel free to share this code with everyone you can think of!

I am off to play some more and will be back with giveaway details soon!

Until Next Time,

Just In Time for Halloween....Sort of....

2011-10-31T09:44:00.000-04:00

During the freak snow storm on Saturday I was able to get, what is for me, quite a lot of sewing done. I managed to complete this Halloweeen top that I had started last season. I had a few more blocks to put together, then let my DDs arrange them and was able to get them stitched together. I was hoping to have it completed by this Halloween. Oh well, at least the top is don. I wonder if I will get it quilted before next Halloween?

I used a Moda Haunted Mansion by Sanae Layer Cake I had and tried the Disappearing Nine Patch. Every quilt teaches us something and what I learned here was that, in my humble opinion, DNP needs a solid in there somewhere. My girls love it though and that's what counts.

I was on a roll so I dug out a UFO quilt I have planned for my own bed. It is a Triple Irish Chain I am planning to hand quilt. If this October snow storm is any indication of the winter we are in for, hand quilting this will be a cozy way to pass the winter nights.

I am loving this quilt and whenever I pull it out wonder why I don't have it finished yet. Oh well, a little bit of progress is still progress!

Another thing I am trying to make progress on is checking out all the fantastic quilts on Amy's Blogger's Quilt Festival. I think I am only a quarter of the way through, sitting to visit a few blogs at a time when I have a minute. If you haven't been over there yet, grab some tea and take a look!

Until Next Time,

Bloggers Quilt Festival Fall 2011

2011-10-28T14:17:00.000-04:00

It's that time again! Time for Amy's awesome Bloggers Quilt Festival. Twice a year we are all invited to this virtual quilt show over at Amy's Creative Side and see what everyone else has been up to with their projects. I love to see everyone's quilts and the stories behind them; it's inspiring!

May I present, my most recent finish:

This is a quilt for my SIL's first baby due tomorrow!

It is definitely one of my favorites that I have done. I love the dots on the back. I used Riley Blake's Indian Summer by Zoe Pearn. This went together quick thanks to an easy pattern I found on Elizabeth Hartman's Oh, Frannson! blog. Thank you Elizabeth!

Baby I Love This Quilt!

Nothing like patting myself on the back. Go on over to Amy's blog and check out the Blogger's Quilt Festival and see what other goodness is out there! And if you enter you just might win somthin' as she has some great sponsers participating.

See you over there!

Until Next Time,

Tonight is Friday Night Sew-In.........

2011-09-16T13:15:00.000-04:00

My youngest started 1/2 day PM kindergarten last week. Now I have 3 hours each day to myself. (happy sigh). I was a little lost at first but that didn't last long.

We had a wonderful but busy summer and I have missed the last couple of FNSI but not today! Today I am stitiching six of these:

They are for a custom order at my Etsy shop. Six huck dishtowels with a Mr. Moose on them. I love how these are turning out.

I also hope to get crackin' on this baby quilt by Elizabeth Hartman at Oh Fransson! She has some patterns on her site she is generously sharing and I think the charm square baby quilt will be perfect for my SIL due next month. I am going to use Riley Blake Indian Summer:

I am L-O-V-I-N' that polkadot for the backing!

Have a great Friday Night everyone :-)

Until Next Time,

Baby GO! Giveaway Spotted

2011-08-24T11:38:00.000-04:00

One of the blogs I am lucky to follow is Moose Stash Quilting. They are having a Baby GO! and your choice of three GO! Dies Giveaway sponsered by Accuquilt.

Photo by Accuquilt

So GO! on over and check it out....tell them I sent ya!

Until Next Time,

Happy Birthday to Me :-)

2011-08-22T10:11:00.000-04:00

Earlier this month I had a birthday. We were camping at the beach with my sisters and their families and they presented me with a Banana Cream Pie instead of a cake. How cool is that?

Anyway, I received some gift-cash so I bought myself a little something:

I have been wanting this for a couple of years now and finally bought it. It looks overwhelming but I can't WAIT to play with it. I have a baby quilt to make for my SIL and haven't found anything in my pattern stash that jumps out at me so this will be the first quilt I "design" with EQ7.

Do you have EQ? Any tips for me?

Off to play......

Until Next Time,

I've Been M.I.A. and a Go Giveaway.....

2011-08-02T16:25:00.000-04:00

Hello friends, once again I disappeared from posting on my blog. I rarely miss reading other blogs though! Summer has been a blur....I haven't been sewing much. I did however blow the dust off of my jewelry-making supplies and have been fiddling with that. I'll have to get some pictures up soon.

It's a good thing I keep reading the blogs I follow, because now I can tell you about an Accuquilt Baby Go! Giveaway happinin' at Twiddletails Blog. How cute is that blog name? So go on over and check it out.

Until Next Time,

Back Again and a Great Giveaway!

2011-06-18T13:34:00.000-04:00

Once again life gets in the way and I have neglected my blog. We've been very busy around here, and still I have managed to get some projects done. I guess I was sewing instead of posting and that's ok!

First of all, Congratulations to the Boston Bruins! I was born and raised here in MA and have always enjoyed watching and especially attending the games. I remember my Dad yelling at the TV when I was little!

I didn't sign up for this month's Friday Night Sew-In since we originally had plans last night. Plans changed and I found myself with an evening with "nothing" to do. (Yay!) I've had a Kate Spain Verna Jelly Roll for a while now. I bought it because I loved the colors but didn't have a plan for it. Here's what I've made so far:

A pair of large hot pads came of my experiment with the tube quilting method I found on Missouri Star Quilt Company's blog. You can read my previous post about them here.

I suffer from insomnia which turns out to be productive sometimes. I got up early one Saturday with an idea for a table runner. I cut the strips into random lengths and "threw" them together. I am happy with the results. Very springy.

So now I still have a bunch of strips left over from the same Jelly Roll. I love being able to stretch it this far! I started out with an idea for placemats but when I cut the blocks I didn't see placemats, but a lap quilt. So now this project is a "Placemats-Turned-Lap-Quilt". Here's what I have cut so far:

I'm lovin' 'em

OK, so now the real reason you are reading my post, Judi at Green Fairy Quilts is giving away a Riley Blake Holly Jolly Fat Quarter Bundle! It's never too early to start a Christmas project. Not only that, she is having a 25% off Fat Quarter Bundle Sale! There's lots to see over there so check it out and don't forget to see the pre-cuts she has coming in October, which, by the way, you can pre-order.

Now back to my Jelly Roll.

Until Next Time,

Believe.......

2011-06-15T21:42:00.000-04:00

Friday Night Sew-In Results and A Surprise in the Mail

2011-04-16T09:54:00.000-04:00

As you can imagine, I wasn't able to get as much done on the bed runner as I would have liked having a sick 7 yr old but I did make some progress. She's feeling much better today so hopefully I will get more quilting done on it. Here is some of what I have so far....

I am really liking the pattern on the back.

I also got a sweet little surprise in the mail yesterday. I had submitted a block for Moda's Just One Star project and they sent me a thank you card with a mini charm pack of Countdown to Christmas! I. Love. It.

I have the perfect place for a little table runner in my living room. Starting it however, will have to wait. Not only do I have several projects in line already, but I just want to keep this adorable little charm near my sewing machine so I can just look at it. It is sooo cute! Thanks Moda! You shouldn't have! (blush)

Enjoy your Saturday!

Friday Night Sew-In Tonight and Bloggers Quilt Festival Coming Soon

2011-04-15T11:21:00.000-04:00

We have had a nasty stomach bug going around here....my youngest had it for 5 days and now my oldest is home from school with it. Tonight is this month's Friday Night Sew-In and here is what I will be working on today and tonight in between sick care:

This is a bedrunner for my sister, you can see my previous post about it here. Come to think of it, I worked on this at last months FNSI. I am quilting in the ditch trying to get a chain link fence effect and having a hard time finding where I've already been! So even though I thread basted using Sharon Schamber's method, I have to place pins in the blocks I have gone around so far. I guess my top thread matches a little too well! I hope to present this to her when we get together for Easter.

Also, once again folks, it is time to start thinking of what project you will show us all at the next Blogger's Quilt Festival coming up next month over at Amy's Creative Side. An inspiring ton of fun to see the beautiful projects of others.

So mark your calendars and jump in on the fun!

Until Next Time,

Friday Night Sew In This Friday!

2011-04-12T08:00:00.001-04:00

Get your taxes done so you can be free to join us this Friday, April 15 for Friday Night Sew-In They have a new button....isn't it cute?

Click HERE to Sign Up!

I have been MIA from my blog lately as I have been taking care of Little One's tummy bug, Big Girl's birthday party and sewing like crazy (yay!) I have my sister's bed runner basted and just started to quilt, and I have been making cute little sun dresses for my girls. I will be working on these this week and Friday night as I want them done in time for Easter. For once, I think I will make my goal!

I also received an email from Connecting Threads that I was a winner in one if their giveaways! Yippee! I am one of those people who "never win anything" so this is exciting for me. I have this gem of a book on its way to me plus a charm pack to go with it!

Photo from Connecting Threads

I have to say though, that I have a slight problem with Connecting Threads in that I LOVE every collection they come out with! Everytime a new catalog shows up I shake my head 'cuz I want the new fabric but often can't justify it without a project lined up as I am up to my eyeballs in UFO's as it is! I can't keep up guys! Their prices are amazing and their customer service is top notch if you ask me. They also have a nice quilting community website called Quilt With Us. Tons of inspiration and friendship...there are lots of different groups you can join, regional, techniques, experience, quilt-a-longs etc.. You are sure to find something you like! Click on the Quilt With Us button on my sidebar to check it out.

Until Next Time,

Now I Know Spring is Here!

2011-04-01T16:20:00.000-04:00

.....Despite the snow storm we got last night!

I am excited for Opening Day! Go Sox!

The other sure-fire sign of spring in our town...,..

Our Dairy Queen is a walk-up, so it is only open spring and summer! They opened last weekend! Wahoo!

My name is Lisa and I am addicted to DQ Pecan Mudslides.

There. I said it.

And most importantly......

My oldest DD turns 7 today. No foolin'! Happy Birthday Magoo!

Have a great weekend everyone...

Until Next Time,

Friday Night Sew-In Progress

2011-03-19T10:15:00.000-04:00

Did you get to work on a project for last night's Friday Night Sew-In? My Friday Night project has trickled into Saturday. Fine with me! After all, it is National Quilting Day!

My sister has been remodeling her house over the last year and I've decided to make a bed runner for her brand new bedroom. The only input she had (her choice) was that she wanted browns and greens. This is what I have so far:

I need more blocks, but was itchy to play with the layout. I thought maybe something more interesting than the square in square. Her room is big and not very busy on the walls so I thought turning the blocks might give it some more interest. I'm not sure about it as it lays on the floor, but in the photo I kind of like it. Would love to hear your thoughts!

Enjoy National Quilting Day!

Join Me in the Just One Star Moda Challenge!

2011-03-16T11:43:00.000-04:00

"Just One Star Can Comfort a Soldier"

Moda Fabrics is having a challenge to piece, quilt and bind 100 quilts in 100 days to be donated to soldiers thru the Marine Semper Fi Fund. They need 1800 star blocks to reach their goal. Hit your scrap bin, pick out some cream and medium red or blue and whip up a block. You can get The Star Block pattern and mailing information here. The deadline for getting your blocks in is May 1. Let's help comfort those who are fighting for us!

Here is what I am sending out today:

I got this tip from Rachel at P.S. I Quilt. Have you visited her blog? If not you should. She's got great tutorials and just released some new patterns. Plus she's just plain nice.

I'm off to finish making St. Patrick's Day T-Shirts for my munchkins.

Until Next Time,

My First Giveaway Winner......

2011-03-11T17:30:00.000-05:00

Quick post today, not feeling too great. Got a little sewing done and heading to bed early. I can't seem to figure out how to show the Random Number thingy in my post. I did use it however, and it picked #6 which is Gayle L. /La. Congratulations Gayle! An email is on its way to you.

Thank you to all who stopped by to visit; this was fun and I will definitely be doing it again!

Have a great weekend!

Until Next Time,

Time to Sign Up for Friday Night Sew-in and Some Pachyderm Love.....

2011-03-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for my Very First Giveway click here :-)

It's that time of the month again! No, not THAT time! .....It's time to plan your Friday Night "me" time and sign up for the next Friday Night Sew-In on March 18. Head on over to Handmade by Heidi to get the details, or click on the button in my side bar.

My hubby had some pictures of mine in his camera that I have been very patiently waiting for. They are from about Christmas time and I wanted to show off a little project I am quite pleased with and hated to give away. But this was a special gift for my "Grammie".

To say she loves elephants is an understatement. She has collected hundreds of them over the years. You can click here if you'd like to see another elephant quilt my Mom, Sisters and I collaborated on. When I spotted this panel at the Sewing Expo last year I had to get it. I haven't done much hand quilting, but wanted to give it a try on this small quilt.

I loved seeing the elephants "come to life" as I stitched around them. Standing back it almost looks like they are going to walk right out of the picture.

I added fast finished triangles on this one for easy hanging if she so chooses.

I even thought to put a label on this one!

Grammie loved it!

Until Next Time,

Making Progress...

2011-03-07T08:00:00.003-05:00

Thought I'd show some of what I've been doing lately. My Mom's Birthday was a couple of weeks ago, so of course my sisters and I took her out to lunch and I presented her with these little beauties:

Mom's stitching room is yellow and her favorite color is blue, and I made this gift completely from my stash. Boy does that feel good. Get an idea, start and finish without leaving the house. I say "stitching room" rather than sewing room because she hand-pieces and hand quilts everything. She makes some beautiful quilts. I'll have to bring my camera over and take some pictures to show.

I found the tutorial for the cubes at Crazy Mom Quilts. I'm sure I will be making more of these. I love Amandajean's tutorials. They are always easy to read and well pictured. If you haven't been to her blog yet you can check it out here.

I've been working on my first tutorial, a small project, which is almost done. Man! I never realized how much work they are and I now have a renewed appreciation for them. Here's a peek:

Saturday I was able to dust off the embroidery unit for my machine. I'm thinkin' these diaper cloths came out pretty cute. I have coordinating fabric to go with each design. I'm not sure what's going on with the panda there....his belly doesn't look like that in person.

Feels good to make progress on your WIPs!

Don't forget about my giveaway! It's my very first so check it out here. Drawing will be Friday.

Have a great week!

Until Next Time,

My First Giveaway!

2011-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

I started my blog September 2009. I am just now getting past 50 posts as I have trouble finding the time to post (probably because I spend so much time reading other blogs!), as well as what to say. Well, I've been feeling so enthused lately, the ideas for projects are spilling over in my brain, and I am getting more sewing done and playing in my Etsy shop, so I figure it's about time I had a giveaway. Don't you think?

I poked around in my stash and one of the things I came up with is this fat quarter medley pack I picked up at Keepsake Quilting a while ago, (like over a year). There are six Fat Quarters of "Feathered Friends" by Wendy Slotboom for In the Beginning Fabrics. I love it. Love the colors. The birds make me feel springy. But, I'm not sure I will get to use it anytime soon and I think these cute birdies deserve more than living in a plastic tote. They need fresh air. Sunshine. They want to play. Don't you want to play with them?

So, let's have three chances to win. Please leave a seperate comment for each:

1. Leave a comment on this post.

2. Become a follower.

3. Blog to your friends about my giveaway so they can play too.

I will figure out the random generator thingy and draw a winner Friday morning, March 11. I like Fridays. Plenty of time for me to meet and be even more inspired by new bloggy friends!

Until Next Time,

I'm on a Jelly-Roll and New Blog Address

2011-03-02T10:18:00.000-05:00

I have had my own domain name for a while now but wasn't sure what I wanted to do with it. Did I want a typical on-line store? Another blog? Well, the store isn't happening anytime soon, so last night I changed this blog's url to http://www.sunnaturalsandgifts.com/. I feel like I'm playing with the big kids now :-)

Recently I saw a very exciting post on one of my favorite blogs to follow, The Cutting Table with a video tutorial on tube quilting. Have you tried this method? It's the bees knees and I'm hooked. I can't wait to try some other combinations. I made up these hot pads using a Verna by Kate Spain Jelly Roll I had on hand. I love the colors in this collection...they make me feel very "springy".

I love how well it fits under one of my favorite dishes to use. Now I won't have to put two little potholders side by side as this fits perfectly. I showed them to a friend and now she wants to buy a pair made to match her kitchen! Not a big deal to some, but for me it's very exciting that someone likes my work!

I will be listing some of these in my Etsy shop which I have been working on as well. I listed some embroidered yoga towels the other day and one sold on the same day it was listed! Talk about encouraging!

I have also been working on my first tutorial. I woke up Saturday with an idea and jumped right on it. I hope to have it ready to post soon. Stay tuned!

Until Next Time,

I Made My Own Button!

2011-02-23T22:29:00.000-05:00

Do you see it over there in my sidebar? Would you like to have it? Go ahead...take it...I like to share.

Pretty exciting for someone who is as clueless as me when it comes to html. I love how I can Google "How do I......?" and figure things out. I've also made new banners for my Etsy and Bonanza.com venues. I've been VERY neglectful of those sites, not having anything prepared to sell, but I have been diving back in, coming up with ideas, getting organized, sewing etc.... so what if the vacuuming doesn't get done right??

I hope to have some finishes to show soon as I am WAY behind on my blog postings.

Until Next Time,

My Meager Friday Night Sew In Results

2010-11-21T11:18:00.000-05:00

I'm a little late posting my results from the Friday Night Sew-In as my side of the family celebrated Thanksgiving yesterday. As for Friday, having DH home sick from work put a dent in my sewing time. Oh well.

My plan was to work on a gift for my cousin who recently married. I found a placemat and napkin kit on clearance at Connecting Threads, and bought some extra matching fabric to make a table runner to go with them.

I already had the placemats pieced and basted and was hoping to get them all quilted and start on the table runner, but I only got the center of 2 placemats quilted. Hopefully I will try to get at it again today.

A close-up of a beginner's meandering center:

Hopefully you all had a fun and productive Friday Night!

Until Next Time,

Are You In? For Friday?

2010-11-18T23:00:00.000-05:00

For the Friday Night Sew-In that is. It's tomorrow night so sign up, pick a project, carve some time to yourself and let the creative juices flow! Or the wine! (But not at the sewing machine...that would be bad)

I will be doing more of a Friday-Day Sew-In since Friday is the day both of my girls are in school and I have a few hours to sew. Did I mention I love Fridays?

In the evening my older DD and I will be going on a moonlight walk with the local Girl Scouts. If we get back early enough I may even get more sewing in. I have a few (seems like hundreds) of projects I could work on and I haven't decided which one yet. I will post my progress on Saturday for all to see.

If you want to get in on the Friday Night Fun, you can click on the button in my sidebar.

Let's get stitchin'!

Until Next Time,

Awesome Giveaway Spotted at Green Fairy Quilts!

2010-11-17T08:00:00.027-05:00

Judi at Green Fairy Quilts is having a fantastic giveaway of a Moda Origins Fat Quarter Bundle to celebrate the birth of her beautiful new baby boy. If you haven't visited her blog yet, you should. She is a very talented long arm quilter and she has an on-line shop with great selection, great prices, and super fast shipping. (Ask me how I know!)

Photo by Moda

Here is an example of what you might find in the bundle if you win!

Photo by Moda

Quick! You have until Friday so click on the button to get in on this great giveaway!

Until Next Time,

My Christmas Quilt Show Entry

2010-11-15T13:48:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been way too long since my last post. I've been dealing with some difficult personal issues and just haven't had the time or energy to think about blogging. More recently I've been wanting to post, but feel a little shy about it....not sure why. So, I thought an entry into Sew Cal Gal's Christmas Quilt Show would be a good way to jump back into blogland. Here is one of my favorite Christmas Decorations.....

I had picked up this Advent Calendar panel at a local shop hop a few years ago. I attached the little pockets, machine quilted and added some gold fringe on the bottom. Then, instead of sticking candy in the pockets, I used my embroidery machine and stitched a Santa which I made into a tiny pillow. You can see him in the top pocket. We just move him from day to day to count down the days.

I also have this tree skirt I made for Mom a couple of years ago. I think the pattern came from Quilter's World but I can't be sure as back then I was subscribing to no less than 4 quilting mags.

I do enjoy these on line quilt shows.....I find talented quilters I might not have otherwise found, and the eye candy! Oh the eye candy!

So be sure to go and see all the other beautiful quilts in the show here.

Until Next Time,

Friday Night Sew In Results

2010-09-18T12:20:00.000-04:00

Or should I say, Friday Day Sew-In progress? No finishes....I decided to catch up on my Free Motion Quilt-Along. Even though my hands were shaking some when I started, which I don't understand... it's.a.practice.quilt.... I was pretty pleased with my progress. I've struggled with FMQ before, but Christina's step by step, no pressure instructions are really working well for me.

My practice pad

Then I worked on the next step which was the skinny strips on the quilt itself. I am purposely using a contrasting thread for this as it is all about learning to control speed and tension, making it easy to see what needs tweaking. My girls will still play with it when its done...they don't care if it's ugly!

Then I decided to break into the Haunted Mansion Layer Cake I showed yesterday. I'm trying out a Disappearing Nine Patch. I didn't realize until I took the picture that I am not crazy about the dark gray square. If you need a second opinion, just ask your camera!

Hopefully I can play some more today.

Until Next Time,

Yay! It's Time for Friday Night Sew In

2010-09-17T10:21:00.000-04:00

Except for me it will be a Friday-Day Sew-In. Today is my little one's first long-day at preschool so with both DD's in school I have about 4 hours to myself. What to do? What to do?

First.....get off the computer.

Then decide what to work on.....

Just need to sew these rows together....this poor thing has been waiting a few months for me to get back to it.

I'm itchin' to do something with these layer cakes

Sweet baby fabric that needs some lovin'

Free Motion Quilt Along top.....I'm already behind! Click on the button to the right if you want to jump in.

Not to mention several others to choose from. I'd best get on something though or I'm going to miss my chance! What will you work on today?

If you haven't signed up for Friday Night Sew-In, click on the button on my side bar to check it out.

Okay, I'm going now....

Until Next Time,

Fall Runner and Trying to Find My Groove!

2010-09-14T12:55:00.000-04:00

I had no idea getting into school routines would take up so much time...I thought I'd have more time lol! Not to mention feeling I've got nothing to post about, or too much...feeling a little overwhelmed these days. Gotta find my groove!

Fall is in the air so I thought I could show one of my favorite creations. I actually made this last fall from my stash. It is a simple table runner with some quilting, applique, machine embroidery, and even a little hand quilting. It is sort of my own design, as I took ideas from several different places and compiled them into this.

You can sort of see the hand quilted maple leaves near the center. I was planning on covering the whole thing but was frustrated with my choice of thread and gave up after two. Live and learn, right?

I used my Sulky Rayon Embroidery thread for the machine applique and love how it turned out. Then added the little flowers with machine embroidery.

I suppose I could say its reversible. I think as far as sewing goes, fall colors and themes are definitely my favorite. Not bad for a rookie. Now I hope I find my groove so I can get more fall goodies made!

Don'tcha love finding new blogs? I came across JulieKQuilts from a link on Quilt Hollow's blog. So glad I found her...her quilt tops are beautiful and she has stirred some ideas in my head.. and psst! she's having a GO! giveaway! Go! check it out!

Until Next Time,

A Free Aussie Applique BOM and Giveaway

2010-08-31T21:27:00.000-04:00

Funny how timely things can be. Here I was today, having decided to add another project to my long list of UFO's. I wanted to do an applique with different blocks. I love the Baltimore quilts, but that is way out of my league right now. I wasn't really finding anything that jumped out at me on line and was planning on going through my huge pile of books and magazines to see what I could find. Tonight I see a post from a lovely Australian blog I follow, Mother's Cupboard. Fiona has designed a Flowers of Love BOM. It is a ten part project and by the looks of the first block promises to be really cute. Definitely looks like something I can handle. She is generously giving this BOM to us for free. So nice of her!

Here is a look at block one:

Photo by Mother's Cupboard

Not only is Fiona giving us the BOM, to celebrate the launch of this project, she is also giving away a complete set of blocks and the fabric to complete nine blocks to one of her followers. Click on the "Flowers of Love" button in my sidebar to check it out!

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring in Australia. It is also the day my first grader starts school, and despite the outrageously hot weather we've had this week, fall is just around the corner here in the Northeast USA. I think I will enjoy the Aussie spring vicariously through this project during our winter. Won't you join me?

Until Next Time,

I'm GO!ing to Tell You About Another Giveaway.....

2010-08-29T10:57:00.000-04:00

I seriously cannot believe all of the Accuquilt GO! Giveaways going on right now in blogland. I think if you look at my recent posts you will see how much I admire the GO! cutter and will be getting one somehow. There are new tutorials popping up all over the place filling my idea book up faster than I can write them down.

Sherri at A Quilting Life is the latest GO! Giveaway I have found. Go on over and check it out!

She talks about how easy it is to cut hexagons with her GO! cutter for her English Paper Piecing:

Photo by A Quilting Life

If you havn't tried English Paper Piecing yet, you can check out Quilt Campus for classes and free workshops. Warning: English Paper Piecing is relaxing and addictive!

One of these days I will see how many hexies I can stitch while watching Pride and Prejudice. Seems like a nice way to spend an evening.

Enjoy your Sunday!

ANOTHER GO! Giveaway Spotted! Have You Seen The Applique?

2010-08-26T10:07:00.000-04:00

I really do think the Accuquilt Go! Cutter is the hottest thing since the rotary cutter. And look! It's portable!

Photos by Accuquilt

I have always used the rotary cutter, but remember my mother cutting from cardboard templates and scissors one piece at a time. The rotary was the way to go for speed when it comes to strips, squares and triangles. However curves and applique, for me, is still best done with scissors. Now, with the Accuquilt Go! Cutter, not only are strips and squares quick, all KINDS of shapes will be easy to cut. They already have SO many dies to choose from, including applique, and looks like they are adding more all the time.

Looky at just some of the applique die shapes they have:

Go on over to Freckled Whimsy for your chance to win your own Accuquilt GO! Cutter and you too can have a bunch of shapes cut in no time! But hurry, her giveaway ends tomorrow!

Until Next Time,

Accuquilt GO! Giveaways Abound! Here's Another One!

2010-08-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

Have you visited Paulette at Sweet P Quilting and Creations? If not you are missing out. Paulette always has fun cheerful posts and great pictures to share and she is a "wool wonder" if you ask me. You should see the hen penny rug she did recently, it is fabulous.

Anywho, her blogging style isn't the only reason for my post. She has been getting to know her brandy new Accuquilt Go! cutter, affectionately named "Lady Go Go", whipping up some great homespun strips and showing us how easy the Accuquilt GO! is to use. AND she has an Accuquilt GO! to give away!

photo by Accuquilt

I can't wait to get my hands on this machine! You can see all the dies and accessories available at the Accuquilt website. The possibilities are endless!

So go on over, check it out, then be sure to enter Paulette's Accuquilt GO! Giveaway! If you win then you'll be whipping up quilt tops in no time!

Until Next Time,

Another GO! Giveaway!

2010-08-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

How lucky are we that there are several chances to win an Accuquilt GO! Cutter!

I can't wait to get my hands on one of these. You can do so much with them and there are tons of dies to choose from. Apples, and Circles and Tumblers Oh! My!

Jackie at Canton Village Quilt Works is having a GO! giveaway. Head on over there for your chance!

My FNSI Was A Bust :-(

2010-08-21T12:11:00.000-04:00

Well, things don't always go as planned do they? Yesterday I was feeling a little under the weather, but thought I would still be able to sew in the evening. However hubby got home late and something came up with extended family that was pretty important, which made for a very early morning today. So, although I attempted to sew, I did not accomplish much.

Knowing I shouldn't sew when I'm tired, I had decided to make a few pincushions...how tough could that be? But I only got the top of one done and I am not happy with it so I will start over. Maybe today.

Or MAYBE I just pull out this UFO:

Its a Rail Fence top that I had started as a sample for a Girl Scout quilting class. We plan to offer the class again in the fall so I need to have something to show them.

Hopefully you all had more successes with your Friday Night!

Until Next Time,

The Quilter's Latest Must-Have! AccuQuilt Go! Giveaway Spotted!

2010-08-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

I've seen the Accuquilt advertised and thought, "that's nice but not necessary for me" Well, the more I look into it, the more I want one! I visited a quilt shop in New Jersey last week and they had their store demo for sale, so I got to check it out. Then I see the tutorials on Sew Many Ways Blog and all the different dies available on the Accuquilt website and the ideas are just spilling over. I REALLY want one of these! Santa, I've been good!

photo by accuquilt.com

Click here to see Karen's tutorials, you'll want one too, and enter the giveaway!

Until Next Time,

A Free Motion Quilt-A-Long AND Friday NIght Sew-In!

2010-08-19T16:09:00.001-04:00

In a recent post, I talked about trying to improve my free motion quilting by practicing on my Road To Spring Quilt. I haven't made much progress:

That's it. Just two designs so far.

For one, we've been traveling quite a bit this summer so I haven't had the time. Second, I bought myself a birthday present by ordering the Gidget II Table from Leah Day. You might be familiar with her fabulous blog 365 Days of Free Motion Quilting? I have the table, and the Supreme Slider, also ordered from Leah, and am now anxiously waiting for my custom acrylic insert to fit my machine.

Both of my girls start school soon and their days are longer so I will have a little more time to play. How convenient that Christina at A Few Scraps is hosting a Free Motion Quilt-A-Long, complete with a giveaway of goodies to start you off! The giveaway is open until August 21 so click on the button on my sidebar and check it out! I'm talking to you Paulette! lol!

So, you can guess what I will hopefully be working on Friday during the August Friday Night Sew-In! Sign up, call the pizza man and get your comfy sewing clothes on, make progress on a UFO and maybe win something!

Until Next Time,

Gettin' In Some Embroidery Sewing Time

2010-08-12T21:09:00.000-04:00

Today I thought it was about time to blow the dust off the embroidery unit for my machine. (Actually, I just blew the dust off the case.... the unit is stored safely inside!) Here she is hard at work on a towel,

Alas, I have not been paying attention to my little Etsy shop. I need to fix it up, re-list some items and I will be listing what I got done today as well....

I think fall-themed projects are my favorite although Christmas is a close second....

These are some swirly snowflakes that will look great all season long.

Forgive the photography, these are fresh out of the hoops and I still need to rinse out the stabilizer and chalk marks. Ran out of time today....kids gotta eat!

Until Next Time,

Husqvarna Serger Giveaway at Sew Mama Sew!

2010-08-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

Wow! Sew Mama Sew is having a Husqvarna S21 Serger Giveaway! To enter you need to post about why you should have a new serger. They are looking for very creative answers.

Just look at this baby!

photo from Husqvarna.com

I am way too shy to post a "why I need a makeover" type video, or any video, so here is my Top Ten List of how a new Husqvarna Serger would enhance my sewing life:

1. My Husqvarna Designer SE LE needs a playmate.
2. Finished seams.
3. Fast finished seams.
4. Repurpose old towels with finished edges.
5. Love serged seams on the outside.
6. I promise I'll take care of it!
7. Get over my fear of knits
8. Get to use my "Serge with Confidence" book.
9. Creative quilting
10. Super fast charity sewing! Pay it Forward!

Wish me luck!

Until Next Time,

My Pets on Quilts Show Entry

2010-08-09T09:20:00.000-04:00

Have you visited Sew Cal Girl's blog to see the Pets on Quilts Show yet? There are some really cute pictures and some great projects to look at. There are prizes for viewers who leave comments on the entries, as well as voters for the Viewers Choice prize given so head on over and get your vote in!

You'll recognize my entry from my header:

Last fall I made a quilt for my neighbor's baby girl, using the Speedy Baby Two pattern by Quilt Taffy. You can see more pictures on my post about it here. The doggie was a gift for the big brother, who was 18 months old at the time. I think he turned out pretty cute, and it was a big hit. It was my first "3-dimentional" project. I used Simplicity Pattern 2763 (bought on sale at Jo-Anns).

Well, I've got some viewing and voting to do....

Until Next Time,

Basting Can Be Comfortable!

2010-08-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

I was able to get my Road to Spring quilt basted on Thursday. Thanks to the wonderous talents of Sharon Schamber, I have learned a way to thread baste that is quick and most of all comfortable. No more hands and knees on the floor! Today I sat at my dining room table and happily basted my 50" x 60" Road to Spring quilt top in a little over an hour. Sharon has a how-to video on You Tube, which you can see here.

I first learned of Sharon a couple of years ago when she was featured in the American Quilter's Society's "American Quilter" magazine. Her award-winning quilts are nothing short of stunning. Treat yourself and see some of her work here.

Now, off to get ready for some serious free motion practice!

Until Next Time,

Get Your Close-Ups Ready for the "Pets On Quilts" Show!

2010-08-01T06:27:00.000-04:00

One of the blogs I enjoy, Sew Cal Gal, is hosting a fun on line quilt show, Pets On Quilts!

Quilts can be animal themed, or for shelter charities, or as most of us will do I'm sure, get out the camera and take pics of our furbabies on or with one of our quilts. How cute will that be? There are several catagories to win with sponsored prizes, including prizes just for helping to spread the word! Go on over to Sew Cal Gal and check it out.

Until Next Time,

I Won a Giveaway! In May.

2010-07-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

I enter giveaways all the time and never win. That is until The Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day back in May. I entered a whole bunch and found lots of great blogs to follow. Well, I won one of Girlville's goodies, an adorable flower pin. You'd think that winning my first giveaway would prompt me to skip right to my computer to post about it. I had every intention of doing just that, but, I dropped the ball on that one. My apologies to K at Girlville. I really enjoy her blog, you can check it out here.

I see it going on a handbag, that doesn't exist yet. I'll have to make one that will let this blossom shine. Thanks ~k!

Until Next Time,

A Giveaway for a Halloween Project

2010-07-29T19:41:00.000-04:00

One of the things I love best about blogging is how I find new blogs to follow. I am a follower of Becky, The Quilting Book Lady and thanks to her post, I was led to a lovely blog by Brenda called the Quilting Cowgirl.
Just look at what she is giving away....

Some Halloween fabric and holiday patterns. You can check it out here. Do it quick though as she will be picking a winner on Saturday.

Until Next Time,

A Finish! (Kinda Rare Around Here)

2010-07-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

How many of you out there still quilt by hand? I think it may be a lost art that is making a comeback. I've just finished my first hand-quilted project, a pillow.

I bought the pre-printed mini whole cloth at the VT Quilt Festival from The Stencil Co's booth a couple of years ago. I would work on it for a while, get frustrated, put it away.....I finally put it together into a pillow using some "out of my comfort zone" trim and backing. I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out and now I am a little better at the stitching. Apparently, I like hand quilting as I have another small project in the works.

However, in the interest of life expectancy, I will still continue to machine quilt most of my projects.

Until Next Time,

What Would You Do You with 17 lbs of Blueberries?

2010-07-27T11:08:00.000-04:00

Ahh nothing like fresh picked blueberries! Last week hubby, the girls and I went to pick. I have taken the girls before, but this year they are big enough to be helpful and with hubby along, well.....

our box was just about overflowing! It took me about 2 days to "process" them all! Lots were eaten fresh, (love 'em on cereal), some frozen for future delicacies, I brought some to my mom, and then decided to try making jam for the first time and am proud to say I was successful :-)

It's a small batch, but baby steps right? Now I have all kinds of crazy ideas for trying other jams, relishes, pickles....we have a very small garden, but I see an expansion for next year.

There were a few different kinds of jars to pick from, so of course I picked the "quilted" ones. They still look a little plain though. Might have to dress 'em up with little fabric cozies or something. In all my spare time.

Until Next Time,

Friday Night Sew In Progress and a Few Firsts

2010-07-24T07:51:00.000-04:00

It was so nice to make real progress on a project! I am forever putting myself last and thinking "I'll sew tonight" only to be too tired at the end of the day. The weather wasn't great here yesterday, so I cheated a little and put in a video or two for the girls, occupying them while I sewed...during the day. Never happens.

Anyway, I was able to complete my Road to Spring Top and get a pieced backing together, as well as cut the batting. I am ready to baste.

Still not lovin' it yet, but it is growing on me. The firsts? First batik quilt. I bought a whole bunch of batik fat quarters on sale last year not knowing what I would do with them. This is my first bloggy quilt-a-long (Thanks Randi!), and I have never done a pieced backing before.

This back just might make me "love it" when it is done. I'm thinkin' scrappy binding too. Another first.

When I look at the top I can see it divided into 6 inch squares within the rectangle strips. I've tried free motion quilting before, without much sucess, but I am going to give it a serious try with this quilt using the book "Free-Motion Quilting Made Easy" by Eva A. Larkin. She has great step-by-step instructions for quilting simple designs in small sections at a time. I ought to get plenty of practice on this 50"x60" baby.

All in all a very successful Friday (Day)Night Sew In. I am going to make an appointment with myself to do this every Friday. Wish me luck.

Until Next Time,

Back from the I don't Know Where and Friday Night Sew In Time!

2010-07-23T16:00:00.000-04:00

It has been a ridiculously long time since my last post. The end of the school year was super busy, and we've been away a lot so far this summer. Lately I've been working on my Road To Spring Quilt from Randi's Quilt-a-Long. Should have taken 6 weeks. I will have my top finished today....only 3 months behind.

I can't say I'm lovin' it yet. The design is great; just not sure of my color choices. I used stash fabric. I thought it would be earthy, but now it just looks masculine. Which isn't a bad thing, hubby probably would like a quilt of his own.

So join in on the Friday Night Sew In, you can make some progress on one of your projects and you just might win something!

Until Next Time,

Friday Night Sew-In Results

2010-04-17T18:39:00.000-04:00

Finally! I get to post about progress on a project for the Friday Night Sew-In. This is the first Sew-In I was able to actually participate in, despite signing up for previous 'Friday's'. Something always seems to come up. You know how that goes. I was able to piece my reversible table topper/candle mat last night and applique the centers on today. I am still trying to figure out how to quilt it. I don't want to do a traditional binding going over all those points so I'd like to stitch right sides together and turn them. My batting is pretty thin, maybe I'll quilt both halves. Or maybe I'll quilt just one side. Or maybe I'll attempt to quilt it after it's put together. I won't get crazy with the quilting, just ditch and a few extra "rays". Any thoughts on this would be appreciated!

I've never done a Dresden before and these were fun to piece, however I did not enjoy cutting these shapes with my template and rotary cutter. I don't see myself making a large quilt with this design. Maybe lots of little ones with English Paper Piecing. Hmmmm.....

Until Next Time,

It's Friday Night Sew In Time.......

2010-04-16T09:58:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe I have been out of the loop for 2 months. Life has gotten in the way of my blog-world and something had to give. I've also been in a creative sewing/quilting rut. Overwhelmed and not sure where to start. So today, instead of waiting until tonight, I will be working on a new table mat off/on in between Mommy duties. I picked and cut some fat quarters yesterday and hopefully will get it together today.

It will be a reversible Dresden Plate. I've never done a Dresden before. We'll see how it goes. The colors will match my blue and green kitchen/dining room combo, and my dishes!

Click on the button on my sidebar if you would like to jump in on the Friday Night Sew-In. Take some time for yourself, work on a project, blog and show it off on Saturday and you could win in the giveaway!

Until Next Time,

Happy Valentine's Day.... A Little Early

2010-02-10T21:42:00.000-05:00

This little heart is a pattern I tested for Shelli at Needle in A Haystack. I used some Moda I had in my stash and a decorative stitch on my machine with a pretty green rayon thread. Found a butterfly button and a little crystal heart and voila! I would love to make a row of these in different sizes/fabrics. Not sure if I'll have time for this year, but there's always next year.

Shelli was kind enough to post my heart along with several others on her blog. They are so cute! There is also a picture of it on You Can Make This. I am flattered Shelli, Thank You!

Happy Valentine's Day to you all :-)

Until Next Time,

Where has the Time Gone?

2010-02-04T22:14:00.001-05:00

I've been keeping up with my blog reading, knowing I have to post on my own blog and thinking.. I'll get to it. Well I just looked and it's been almost a month since my last post! I was thinking it was just a couple of weeks. I think about posting on my blog often. Just not sure I have much to say. Oh well, moving on.....

I have several projects going at once. Big surprise. I have jumped on Randi's Road to Spring Quilt-A-Long. I decided to try this quilt with some batiks I had in my stash.

The wheat color in the background will be my solid. I have all 100 batik cuts done and just have to finish cutting my solid squares, approximately 50 to go. Cutting repetitive squares/rectangles is not my favorite part, but tonight I had a local radio station streaming through my computer. Good mix, Lots of 80's stuff, very nostalgic for me. Must be careful though dancing with a rotary cutter in my hand! I was laughing at myself boogying to "Brick House" while I am here all by myself cutting. Sure took the boredom out of the process!

Until Next Time,

Good News...A Giveaway -- Bad News... Sorry Patriots!

2010-01-10T17:53:00.000-05:00

I spent today working on my Irish Chain "cocoa" quilt, a little at a time. I have all 63 blocks done and have 5 rows stitched together. It's really coming along. I haven't had much to say the past few days; hubby was nice enough to take the girls out for most of the day yesterday so I could sew.

Today, I returned the favor and he went to the Patriots game. Froze his butt off I'm sure! And the Bad News? Pats are out for the season. Maybe next year guys!

But here's the Good News....I was wondering what to post when Heidi at Crafty Vegas Mom solved that for me! She is having an awesome giveaway to celebrate her 99th post. Here's a look:

Love those corduroy bags she makes! Go on over and check it out......

Until next time...

Nominees to Select and a Sew-In!

2010-01-06T19:43:00.000-05:00

I wasn't sure what to post about today. I am trying to post on at least one of my blogs each day. Well, Amy at Park City Girl fixed it for me. She has invited everyone to nominate your favorite quilt/quilt story from the Fall 2009 Blogger's Quilt Festival. Read her post about it here.

It has been a while since I was over there checking out the entries from the festival; I think I had left off at four hundred something and there are 683 entries! So I have been getting caught up and re-reading to try to nominate a favorite. Hard to do as there are so many great quilts and stories! While I was neglecting the laundry looking at these quilts, I came across Heidi's blog and her Friday Night Sew-In and giveaway. Love the idea. Click on the button in my sidebar to check it out. But, oops! The 15th is hubby's birthday so probably no sewing for me that night! Maybe I can get some sewing done earlier that day.

I am devoting what little sewing time I have to working on my "cocoa" quilt that I talked about here. I have done very well this week sticking to my 15 minutes at a time experiment and am pleased with how far I've progressed. There will be 63 ten inch blocks in all and I have 48 of them completed. Not bad considering I only had 10 or so done when I pulled it out of the project pile last weekend.

Hubby is itching to re-paint the bedroom to match this quilt. The blue that's in there now won't do. He keeps asking when he can get started. I keep telling him this won't be done for a while yet.... but who am I to keep him from a home improvement project?

Have you ever re-done a room to match one of your quilts? I'd love to hear about it :-)

Until next time,

My "One Little Word"

2010-01-05T10:35:00.000-05:00

A couple of days ago I was catching up on my blog list with my coffee. Dottie Jane's post that day talked about "One Little Word" for 2010. That brought me to Pat Sloan's post, which brought me to Ali Edward's post. All three posts gave me something to think about so I have come up with my "One Little Word". That word is "Now". As in "being present in the moment for this moment is all we really have"

I've been reading books written by Eckart Tolle, a best-selling spiritual author and teacher, and they have changed my way of thinking overall. By focusing on the now, I find I am calmer, have more patience and have greatly slowed down the incessant chatter in my brain, which leaves room for my creative side. I am learning to accept and embrace "the now" instead of letting my mind/ego turn it into more than "what it is". It's a little hard to explain in a nutshell here, if you want to know more about Eckart Tolle and "The Power of Now" you can visit his website here.

Thanks Dad, for introducing me to "Now" (hugs)

Until Next Time,
Lisa

I've Started Another Blog!

2010-01-02T21:26:00.000-05:00

Maybe I've lost my mind. I'm not exactly burning up the keyboard with stuff to say on this blog, but I invite you to check out my new blog, just launched today. Its topic will be mostly machine embroidery, so if you or any of your friends have a home embroidery machine, by all means, stop in for a visit. I hope to fill it with lots of tips, links, and inspiration.

After all, Embroidering Minds Want to Know!

Until Next Time,

Lisa

New Year Thoughts, WIP's and 15 Minutes to Feed Your Soul

2010-01-01T11:36:00.001-05:00

Yes, I'm still here! I've had a bit of blogger's block lately. Just don't know what to write! Combined with a very busy holiday season there just didn't seem to be enough time. I have been keeping up with reading my favorite blogs though, which got me thinking this morning about our new year and what we look at as accomplished. I am thinking specifically of our craft projects. Thanks to the fabric and pattern designers out there who are constantly tempting us with new inspiration (thank goodness!), our "to do" projects and ideas are never ending. We sometimes can't help ourselves in starting a new project, either because we love the new fabric line and we just "have to have it" or a new gift occasion comes up in which we love to wow the recipients with our handiwork.

What we (or at least I) sometimes forget though, is why we do this, the sewing, the quilting, the crafting. It really does feed our souls doesn't it? It can get overwhelming, if we let it, to see the pile of unfinished projects, or WIPs calling to us. It feels great to get them done, but I don't want to lose focus on why I sew and only see each project as a means to an end. One of my resolutions is to enjoy each moment, every stitch, every step of the process, not how long it takes me to finish so I can start another.

Sometimes days go by where I let everything else come first and don't have time to sew. Sure that's going to happen, but I am going to make it a point to work on something for just 15 minutes every day if that's all I have. I deserve that and so do you. 15 minutes doesn't seem like a lot of time to work on a project, but over a week that's 1 hour and 45 minutes which some weeks is more time than I've spent sewing.

Whose with me? I'm thinking of starting a "Little at a Time" weekly project show off so we can encourage, support, and watch each other progress.

I'll start. This will be the largest quilt I've made yet. I am machine piecing but plan to hand quilt it. I've had it put away for the last several months because I don't "have time to work on it" but I am going to work on it a little bit each day. Even five minutes if that's all I have.

This one is for me. I think I've only made one other quilt that is just for me. I've been wanting to do an Irish Chain, and seeing some browns I liked on a trip to Keepsake Quilting last year, decided to make a quilt that remindes me of a "cozy cup of hot cocoa". So far 25 blocks done; 38 to go.

Are you in?

BTW, 15 Minutes at a Time is not my original idea. Check out Flylady's website to see what you can accomplish in 15 minutes!

A Little at A Time.....

Lisa

Unbelievable Breast Cancer Scam

2009-11-12T14:08:00.000-05:00

I am just speechless and shaking my head on this one. I had heard some DJ's talking about this on the car radio so I googled the topic when I got home. I found on CBS.com the story of Trista Joy Lathern 24, of Waco, TX, who held a fund raiser for herself and raised $10,000 for her breast cancer treatment, but she DOES NOT have cancer!!!! She wanted a boob job, and got it!!!!! She says she thought a breast enhancement would help her marriage. Click here for the story on CBS.com.

I tried to find an image to include in this post that would show the audacity of this story, but I couldn't find one that would be "clean" enough to post.

Keepsake Loot and a Giveaway Spotted

2009-11-09T11:18:00.002-05:00

Well, our Keepsake Quilting Open House adventure on Saturday was a great success, both for the store and for my creativity, but not for my pocketbook!

Here are my goodies before lunch:

I got a little corner trimmer as a gift, and the strip of beige fabric is what they used to tie my bag shut. It's like getting another little gift. One of the charm packs came with a free pattern. I would have opened them, but it is very windy today!

And...

This is the loot after lunch:

Yep, my sister had to think on an idea she had so we left, had a nice lunch, then came back. Now I was done when we left the store the first time, but that didn't stop me. The Christmas fabric is 25 10" squares, and the triangles are fat eighths impulse buys that were in a basket at the register. The duckies are the gifty strip to close my bag.

I guess because it is a whole day trip, (2.5 hour drive one way) I feel that I should go crazy. This is my third trip up there (over time) and on the way home I realized I have fabric and goodies from my first two trips I haven't even started yet. Yikes. Better get going!

I love the little freebies I got, the strips, the pattern, the corner trimmer, but if you go over to Sweet Home Quilt Co's Blog you will love this week's Friday Favorite Giveaway, some fabric by Cinnamon Stars by Fig Tree Quilts for Moda. Check it out!

Until Next Time,

Lisa

Quilty Girls Day Out!

2009-11-07T08:54:00.000-05:00

I haven't been able to post lately.... got a lot going on.... but today is a Girls Day Out. No housework, Daddy has the kids and we are going to KEEPSAKE QUILTING!!! Yay! I LOVE that place. Raise your hand if you get their catalog! Hmmm I thought so :-)

Its about a 2.5 hr drive so its an all day trip but that's OK! Mommy's need a break once in a while.

Hopefully I'll have some good stories and goodies to show you next post.

Enjoy the weekend,

Lisa

October Has Ended But Breast Cancer Has Not

2009-10-31T12:29:00.001-04:00

October is a huge month for Breast Cancer. A lot of marketing is done during October for Breast Cancer Awareness. But Breast Cancer and the need for research and funding continues. Suzanne over at Just Another Hangup is having a beautiful "Give-Away...Give-Away". She has a lovely bag that she is giving away; however, the idea is for the winner to give it away to someone special in their lives who has been touched by Breast Cancer.

I already know who I will give it to if I win, do you?

Until Next Time....

Lisa

"Comfort Zone" Quilt Complete!

2009-10-30T18:18:00.000-04:00

It's been a little while since my last post. We've suddenly gotten very busy around here and its not even Christmas yet! I have gotten a couple of projects done though. Most importantly, the baby quilt I had originally posted about here for my neighbor's baby. I finished it on the day she was born, 10/19. Yes, its a girl thank goodness as this quilt came out more pink than I expected. I was trying for an earthy neutral look. My neighbor loved it and was very impressed I had made it.

My assistant is my 3yr old DD

The back, trying to show the random free motion circle quilting.

I also made a matching little stuffie for big brother, (18 months). I don't think he has let go of it since.

My two Sleeping Beauty DD's and I want to wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween! :-)

Until Next Time,

Lisa

Pattern Testing 1,2,1,2

2009-10-18T21:10:00.000-04:00

Back when I started blogging ages ago, (4 weeks) I was browsing other blogs and came across Shelli at Needle in a Haystack. She was looking for pattern testers. I left a comment that I would be happy to help. Not sure what I was thinking as I can't seem to find time to get my own projects done but as usual those details don't stop me. I was (and still am) a little apprehensive as I am by no means an expert at sewing or quilting but what's to lose?

A week or two later she sent out some pattern info. She was having some of her embroidery patterns digitized for machine embroidery, which is perfect as I have an embroidery machine. I had stitched out this cute pumpkin applique design on some linen I had in my stash:

I didn't know what I was going to do with the design. After a couple of days I decided on this:

I had some Moda in my stash so I used that for the lining:

I'm quite pleased with it as it is my first bag. Shelli loved it and asked me to post it on "SWAK Embroidery". If you haven't been to that website, it has patterns and ideas for machine embroidery projects. Be sure to visit Shelli's page there. If embroidery isn't your thing, sisters sites "You Can Quilt This" and "You Can Make This" also have a lot of nice projects for quilting, sewing, and general crafts.

I've been on a roll the last few days, finishing up this bag, a baby quilt and a little stuffie for the baby's big brother. I will post pics of the baby gifts when the little dog gets a face.

Until Next Time......

Lisa

My Quilt Festival Entry

2009-10-12T12:33:00.001-04:00

It took me a while to decide whether any of my quilts are worth entering in Park City Girl's Fall Quilt Festival, then I thought of the quilt we made for my grandmother. She LOVES elephants and has a huge collection. I spotted an elephant panel at the Sewing Expo in Worcester, MA back in 2007. I got Mom and my 3 sisters involved. Each of us added borders, embellishements and quilted a panel, signed our name on it then Mom sashed and put it all together. It came out great, and 2 of my sisters don't quilt, (or sew for that matter!)

We presented it to her at her annual Christmas party that year. All of her grandchildren are spread out between Vermont and Massachusetts so we all get together for "Grammie's Christmas". She was blown away.

Here is Grammie with her quilt:

There are so many quilts to see at this festival! Click on the button at right to see hundreds of quilts. I can only look at a few at a time or nothing would get done around here!

OK, look at a couple more then back to housework....

Until Next Time,

Lisa

You Can Feel Pretty During Chemo!

2009-10-11T10:32:00.005-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My very first blog post was about breast cancer. My dear friend of over 30 years has been cancer free for one year now. Barbara is one of those inspirational people who can take something bad and make something good come out of it. Barbara is very creative, and when she couldn't find a comfortable head covering while going through chemotherapy, she designed her own with the help of her sister, Lauren. Thus Kare Chiefs was born!

Kare Chiefs are beautiful, versatile and very comfortable. I wear one and I'm not even sick. I love them. They are reversable and so soft with pretty little beads dangling off the hem. Here is a sampling:

If you know someone who is enduring chemo or another hair loss condition, please click on their logo to visit:

Portions of the proceeds go to cancer related research and charities. Tell her I sent you!

Until Next Time......

Lisa

Terry's Quilt

2009-10-09T09:56:00.002-04:00

Block donations are starting to pour in for Terry's Quilt. Laurie from A Yankee Quilter is posting initials and locations of the block contributors as she receives them and it looks like she is getting 4-5 a day! If you haven't heard of this project yet, click on the "Terry's Quilt" button to the right and it will give you the information. In a nutshell, people are donating blocks that Laurie will put together into a beautiful quilt to comfort Terry and her family as they endure the crisis of her husband getting very badly hurt at work.

I actually made two blocks, but the first one did not measure up. Literally. The block came out short of the 9 1/2" size requested. I also didn't like the way it looked. Funny how when you lay your fabrics out while auditioning them that you think they will look good then you get the block together and you realize they don't work after all! Here is my first block ....

A little too busy I think.

So here is the block I ended up sending...

If you'd like to see more blocks Laurie is posting them on Flickr. They are beautiful!

I marked bubbles on the baby quilt last night. I hope to get it quilted today. I better get a move on, my neighbor is due in a week! Then there's my fall table runner that I'd like to see finished for this year, a Christmas present, and then all the Christmas projects I want to make.......

Also, as we all know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Please take a moment to click on the Breast Cancer Site button in my sidebar and help fund mammograms for women in need. It's free and only takes a second! We have to take care of the girls!

Until Next Time....

Lisa

Need a New Quilt Project?

2009-10-01T14:06:00.001-04:00

Sometimes we have a project in mind, and not all of us feel confident enough to design one of our own. I am always looking at new pattern ideas, especially now that I spend a lot of time reading quilting blogs! In my sidebar you will see a link to a new website, http://www.findaquiltpattern.com/ . Created by Cindy from CD Designs, this brand new website will be a great resource for patterns for your next quilt project. I have already seen several I want to try. Be sure to bookmark the site as the listing of patterns continues to grow. If you are a designer, you can list your patterns which will link back to your website, increasing traffic. Everybody wins!

I first found Cindy when I recently started English Paper Piecing, which she teaches on http://www.quiltcampus.net/. I have always been a big fan of machine piecing to "get it done" but find EPP relaxing and portable, thus enabling me to enjoy the process, not just the outcome. Here are a couple of pieces I have stitched from scraps so far....

I have some vintage feedsack scraps that I want to try using EPP. I love the way it looks and its easy to learn!

I am off to the "Big E" Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, MA tomorrow with a good friend of mine. A girls day out! I will bring my camera and hopefully have some pictures to share.

Until Next Time....

Lisa

Precious Puppy and A Giveaway at Sweet P's

2009-09-25T09:41:00.002-04:00

As a new blogger I am spending way too much time thinking about what to post. As if it has to be something profound. As I read other blogs, mostly about quilting, I see that all I need to do is just be myself. A life lesson I struggle with a lot as I am one who worries too much about what other people think, which blocks any creativity I have waiting to come out.

Anyway, I see a lot of pictures of people's pets so here is one of my poochie, his name is Shemar. (He came with that name) He is a mixed breed rescue we adopted about 18 months ago. He was 10 months old at the time and still has a lot of anxiety issues but is coming along. He has a rather "unhealthy" addiction to me. He has to be with me ALL the time, even peeking around the shower curtain to make sure I'm still there! Fortunately, he LOVES my daughters and they love him.

Daddy's Home!

On another note, one of the blogs I enjoy following is Sweet P Quilting and Creations. Paulette is having her first giveaway! I am not a designer and it didn't even occur to me to do a giveaway but what fun! I will have to work on that. Paulette has a hot-off-the-press copy of Canada's newest quilting magazine, Quilter's Connection:

This is the first issue and it has an adorable Partridge in a Pear Tree wall hanging project on the cover. She is generously giving away a copy of the magazine and some fabric to start the project! Quick, pop on over to her blog to enter, she is doing her drawing September 30!

Well, off to get some stuff done so I can play with my fall table runner that is still in my head.

Until next time...

Lisa

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

2009-09-23T16:11:00.002-04:00

I have a new quilt top I just finished for my neighbor who is due with baby #2 in a few weeks. I found this Hoffman "In The Wild" fabric on sale and loved it. The pattern came from Quilt Taffy's Speedy Baby 2 Pattern. The pattern calls for charm squares but I used the Hoffman and some out of my stash. Now that I have it together I'm not sure about it. Part of me loves this and part of me is hesitant because its not traditional "baby colors". My family says it looks great don't change anything, the neighbor will love it. I plan to use bamboo/organic cotton batting and quilt lots of circles.

This indecisiveness usually happens to me when I am putting a quilt together but most times I am very happy with the result. Is it just me?

I'm actually amazed I got any sewing done since I jumped into blogland. Geez I want to follow everybody! I just love seeing the other projects and ideas. That's how I came across Quilt Taffy's blog. I was just blog-browsing, found their site and here I am. Corrie and Des have a lot of cute tutorials and projects. Take a peek.

Until next time....

Lisa

Tongue-in-Cheek Timesaving Tips for Quilting Moms

2009-09-16T14:54:00.008-04:00

I am having a ton of fun learning how to blog! So much in fact that being on the computer checking out other quilter blogs is cutting into my sewing time, what little there is of it. Which brings me to today's topic.

I subscribe to Ivillage.com "Stuff We Love" newsletters. Today I came across an article of time saving tips for moms; "Ten Great Ways to Glide Through Your Day" which immediately caught my attention.

I thought I'd share just a few of the tips and how they would benefit me:

Set up a large corkboard - Hang it in your kitchen where you can prominently display a family calendar. This calendar will serve as your family's command center. Each night, you can check the calendar to see what activities are on tap for the next day. OR pin up your quilt ideas!.

After-dinner duty - Help your kids get their outfits and knapsacks packed and ready for the next day. You can also use this time to put your belongings together (e.g., recharge your cell phone). OR pull fabric from your stash for your next project!

Set the breakfast table the night before - Set up the bowls, spoons, cereal boxes, skillet -- this way, there's one less thing for you to do in the morning. OR... ok well, this won't work for me as I sew at the table...

Get a babysitter - To get a better perspective on your life, and to ultimately get all your chores done more efficiently, you need to refuel your physical and mental energy. (for quilting!) Employing a babysitter for one afternoon a week or even one day a month will help you step back and evaluate life from a clearer perspective. For Quilting ideas!

Get a housekeeper - Even if it's just once a month, try to get someone in to take over the heavy-duty cleaning. If you think you can't afford it, remember that one day of housecleaning provided by a cleaning company is equal to the cost of two people going out to a movie and dinner. This would be a toss up; more time to quilt or more money for buying fabric!

I will definitely be taking these helpful hints into consderation!

I want to also invite you to click on the link in my sidebar for the Among the Gum Trees blog. This is a great group blog made up of the Gum Tree Designers from down under. These nine Aussie designers have beautiful patterns, ideas and oh yes giveaways. Be sure to check them out.

Until next time...
Lisa

First Ever Blog Post.....

2009-09-12T21:17:00.003-04:00

Hello Blog World! Although I am a crafter and quilter, I think my first post should be a subject near and dear to my heart. My sister survived breast cancer last year with a mastectomy. My best friend of 30+ years has been cancer free for 1 year; she underwent full chemo and radiation. With Breast Cancer Awareness Month coming up in October, it is high on my priority list of pondering.

Some Breast Cancer Facts from The Breast Cancer Site

Every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer
One woman in eight who lives to age 85 will develop breast cancer during her lifetime.
Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 40 and 55.
Mammography is a low-dose X-ray examination that can detect breast cancer up to two years before it is large enough to be felt.
When breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is 96%. This is good news! Over 2 million breast cancer survivors are alive in America today.

Did you know you can help women in need get mammograms with just a click? Its free! Just click on the Breast Cancer Site link above or button at right. Every click counts!

Until next time....
Lisa

pink ribbon image courtesy of http://www.carolsutton.net