History Made in our region.

It has been closed for a couple of months. When we visited the region for the Samuel De Champlain Celebration the re dedication of the lighthouse frieze, it was open to only one lane of traffic. Shortly thereafter it was deemed unrepairable and unsafe so it was closed. Much to the inconvenience of many in the area that rely on it for their livelihood. Here is a photo of it while it is having it's last breaths and still serving.

And this is what it looked like shortly after 10:00 am yesterday.

This photo was taken by Lohr McKinstry and was on the front page of the Press Republican this morning. Yesterday, December 28, 2009, the Champlain Bridge at Crown Point was demolished.
Normally, I love to attend and witness events like this. I feel it's my responsibility and it's a pleasure to witness things of this nature, but with the storm warnings in our area and traffic advisory out, safety won out and I stayed home with PGD#1 who is only 4 years old and figured we'd watch the live broadcast on the local networks and stay safe.

So, I thank you Crown Point Bridge for all of your years of service. For humanity and myself. IMHO - It's too bad you were not cared for as you should have been so you could be around much longer than your short lived 80 years. Remember that adage a stitch in time saves nine......


Jane

I think I have finally figured it out.

I have the long lines table runner that has been on my UFO list for quite awhile. I figured out how I wanted to back it and have that completed. Now to layer it and quilt it, bind it and call it done and SCREEEECH! The brakes slammed on really hard a couple of weeks ago.

I am using a black batting for my first time si I can try it out on this runner and I am glad about that. But with the front and back being different sizes I hesitate on continuing. I didn't do like I normally do and make a larger backing and hack it down to the correct size after it's quilted. Since they are both table runners I want to make sure it is placed/lined up correctly and won't be catywumpus and wonky if you know what I mean. ;~)
So an idea came to me today, I'll report on it after I attempt it, but I'm thinking it will work.

Also, I love Leah Day's 365 days of free motion quilting that she is showing and sharing. Initially I had thought of attempting to stitch them out on a gridded fabric that was layered, batted and backed. But when talking with a friend recently I mentioned I thought I would use a new notebook and draw them out. Yep! That's what I'm doing. I am up to Day 23 so far. Here's what it looks like.

I love it and find doing the hand movements almost a zen like quality. With this bound notebook I'll be able to have a reference of each stitch to look up and browse through for any future projects. I did purchase the Clover Self threading needles through her sight besides the suctioned cup magnetic holder for keeping it near my sewing machine. I know many quilter's mention the magnetic field isn't that strong with computerized machines and it's okay to use them on them, but I rather be a little inconvenienced and safe. SO my needle holder is placed on the top front drawer of a thread chest that is near my machine BUT NOT ON IT.

Yesterday PGD#1 and I played in the snow for one hour. We did try a snow man first without any luck. The snow didn't seem to pack that well. So instead we made snow angels, played princess and prince travelling through the forest and then a game she came up with of following each other after a 40 second delay and not peeking, by the tracks made in the snow. Of course we both were tired out and very happy when we got back inside.

She's is an angel in whatever she does and I really love spending so much quality time with her.

Enjoy your day.
Jane

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas....

I love a white Christmas and that is exactly what arrived for this morning for a beautiful Christmas Morning and without the mess of snowfall. A little snap shot taken while going to visit the youngest grand children this morning so we could see them open their Santa gifts. A great time and what the holidays are for.



Merry Christmas all!
Jane

Couch-Plop, Flip-Flop, House-Mop, Non-Stop

That's exactly how I've been feeling. It's almost Christmas and I am so behind compared to how set I usually am for the holiday. I have not written any Christmas Cards, The tree isn't up, no chocolates or cookies made. All I've been doing is running to the doctors or sleeping with a little shopping thrown in. When enough energy, trying to get my house back in order. Of course in flip flops since all who know me, know my love of the thong! I think I even still have a pair of fur lined flip flops, very essential in the really cold weather we've had recently.

I was able to get the fleece Christmas panel blankets done for all the grandchildren. While I was doing that, DH stepped up and wrapped the gifts. The eldest GS got all of his gifts on Monday when his Dad and Mom went to his school in Massachusetts to visit him and I did meet that deadline nicely.
Several groups of friends and I have met for our Christmas celebrations. It is nice to reconnect. For one group, we haven't all been able to meet since I'm not sure when. It really has been way too long. We actually celebrated 2 Christmas parties in one since, for some reason, it was cancelled last year, I really can't remember now just why.
Boy talk about receiving a mother load of goodies. Check it out.

Sweet! Literally, besides getting a plethora of cookies and edible goodies I received a couple of fabrics from Caryl Bryer-Fallerts line and some Paducah beads, . Friends go every year to AQS in Paducah. Years ago, I was able to clear my schedule AND have the finances to go with them. What a grand trip. So many quilty events going on all in one quaint town and shared with friends. Heaven! Maybe some day I'll be able to do that trip again. I truly loved it.
Here is a photo of one of my gifts I made for a friend for that party.
I saw several candle mats similiar to this on several blogs (sorry, I didn't note where and can't find it now) and I thought I'd customize one for her with her favorite color yellow, besides using some scraps from my basket which have memories between us. She also loves flamingos and I was able to find a beautiful umbrella from a local store this past spring which I thought that she'd love. She did.
Since it was 2 year's celebrations in one, my other friend's name which was for last year's exchange was a DVD from Nancy's Notions of apron making. I also made a reversible apron for her, one side with the 12 days of Christmas motifs, and the other, a custom red apron with a pocket saying Nancy's Creations out of redwork including a glazed cake on a footed cake plate that I colored with a gingerbread color for the cake and red on the cake plate scallops. So appropriate too since this friend is the "Diva of Desserts" in my book. Any gathering we have, she comes through with a luscious offering of her many talents. Such a gracious and handy friend.
Sorry, no photo of this one. I do have my drawings and can pull out a piece of the fabric I used. Perhaps after the holiday I'll edit this post and add it. Came back 1/3/10 and added this photo for a reference of what I did and used.




Going through the house taking pictures of some of my Christmas wall hangings I have up for the season. I hope you enjoy seeing them as much as I love gazing at them while walking by.


An Eileen Sullivan pattern I made years ago. I named it "Pizazzy Poinsettia" It's now a tradition to hang it to the left of the fireplace. Here's a close up showing some of the details. I used razzle dazzle thread via bobbin work to highlight the pot holding the poinsettias.



A wall hanging my flamingo-loving friend made for me years ago. Thanks Bev Bevie, I Love this and it hangs with pride every year.



This hanging I purchased at a show of some sort. Either a craft show or a quilt show. It hangs in my bedroom doorway and it goes nicely with my decor there. Sorry, there is no name on it to credit the work.



And last is this piece I made 15+ years ago. Despite quilting when newly married for baby quilts and duvet covers and such, I had put aside my quilt making for efforts towards making curtains, roman shades, clothes etc. Too busy with the children's sports, dance, school and my work to find time for quilting UNTIL.... I wanted to make this for DH.


He was into collecting Santas and while having lunch with a girlfriend from work, we went to a quilt shop that had this as a sample. Needless to say, I've been almost obsessed with quilting since. I wasn't sure about hanging it where I usually do since we had the kitchen painted but it doesn't clash too bad with the Orange. It's probably a good thing I had used black for the outer borders and it sets the red back from the edge a little. Lucky guess when constructing it 15+ years ago.

Well off to my treadmill before I can continue with my plans for today.
One day before the big guy comes around. I'll have to get the tree up and be ready.

Jane

Ohh, this last little gem is a product of 2 of the grandchildren and I.
Isn't that shiner just perfect. She got it at day care while playing flashlight tag during her Christmas party and the 13 year old GS didn't want to be included in the photo. You know 13 yr old boys, most times they are just way too cool.

Disappearing Nine patch and their varieties.

Check out this blog. Vic in Australia shows many different D9P quilts.


This quilter has many unusual and unique quilts and links to patterns.

Use a four patch into a nine patch tutorial here.

Looking for fabric...

With the recent finishes I was able to find some time to focus on cleaning up some of my sewing space(s). I am amazed by all the STUFF I have. So I have cleaned up and out quite a few bags and items around my work spaces. Many things reorganized and stored in a better manner. Here is an updated look at the doorway to my sewing studio. Much improved since this photo. Its a big improvement over what it was and it's hard to see it in the photos so it's not showing up that well but it's much better!

While looking on how best to arrange and store, I stumbled across my Lone Star Quilt UFO. The center area is done, the 1st and 3rd borders are cut as is the made binding, the only area that I need to get to is the reason it got shelved in the first place. I don't have enough of the background fabric.


That's the only piece of selvage I could get my hands on so I'm not sure of the designer or fabric line. Do you know where I could get some? Click on the picture and you can see it closeup.

Several years ago, while at a Pennsylvania quilt show, Seams Like Home designer, Joan Jones had her bird quilt on display in her vendor booth. The background fabric of it is the same fabric that I need. So when inquiring about where I could find more of it she said she would check when she got back home in 2 weeks and to give her a call. Long story storter, Yippee- she had 2 yards. So I gladly paid her for it. Then...the package never came. Major Bummer!

She kindly refunded the money and even went through her scrap bin to see if she had any of it there which she did so she mailed me the bits that she did have, but it's not enough.

I did purchase this fabric on the left awhile back and thought I might have to use it, but I am hopeful that someone out there will have some of my original fabic.


All of the paper piecing chain points are done and the corner section drafted chains are sewn and pressed. Just need about 1 yard more so I can finish that section of the second border thought I want to do an asymetrical appliqued vine in. This is a sketchinng of what I have in mind.



Let me know if you know where I can get this spotted/speckly fabric, I'd love to get 2 yards but any is better than none and thanks.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

On a rolllllll......

Would you believe a second finish in as many days? I am so thrilled and I really am feeling great with these tiny successes. On this previous post I mentioned trying to focus on that doll blanket and get it finished for PGD#1.
























With this little quilt, I put alot of stitches into it. First with the daisy stitching floral trim at the skirt bottom and then outlining different areas on the bodice, waist and sleeves to try to show more orange. I also ripped out the red flower and did an orange spiderwed rose with a tiny satin ribbon. Nice match with the intended binding. Orange is my PGD#1's most favorite color. Quite an unusual color for a child to prefer and she's loved it for over 2 years now.

I used a polyester for the satin backing and just did a medium size stipple in the background of the quilt. Had to use a ball point needle so I wouldn't tear any of the backing fabric or get any puckers. That just wouldn't do! I am happy it turned out so well. With my back and shoulder problem, sometimes the pain is difficult to try to do some things, but I persevered.
The satin double fold ribbon wasn't too bad to use as the binding, but the way I did it was a very backwards system if looked at by any professional standards! LOL I pinned the binding on and created mitered corners onto both sides of each corner. Then removed it from the quilt top, sewed the darts to make the miters and then pressed the "dart" open so no seams could be seen and to off set the weight difference. Promptly re-pinned it back onto the quilt to connect the ends and make a a circular of binding. Then, drumroll maestro, reattached the binding via pins then finally stitched inplace with 2 rows of stitching, making sure to catch both sides at once. The front is perfect and the back isn't too bad.
For the "piece de resistance"- Crystals attached in a pleasing manner according to this artist's discretion. Who said angels don't wear jewels? In my world they do. Hehe.
And this picture shows some of the details.



I know PGD#1 will be wrapping her babies in it tomorrow when she comes and will be dragging it all over, she is such a wonderful little Mommy. It will be loved. The other 2 dollie quilts she carries around with her babies are well travelled so far. One was made by my Mom and the other by me. This one is a combo of both of our efforts. Just thinking that with this one being so white, I might suggest she leave it on the babie's bed at home or here. We'll see how that is accepted. But she will have the final say about it's use.

Well I'm off to enjoy a Christmas Concert this evening. Several family members, brother, sister, nieces and nephews will be in. I do enjoy concerts, but especially this time of year.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree

Happy dancing here. Finished this little Patch Abilities December BOM this morning.

Here's a close up of the detail.



Also of note, just found a website for changing sizes and what scale to use. Enlarging/Reducing Scale for Patterns. The link is here.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Quilt Math

Math is a huge part of quilting, like it or not. I enjoy math, but somedays my thinking is a little too rough and the "brain on meds" doesn't work the way it used too. So to help out I utilize many tools. Several days of pondering the issue, with the known quilt formulas and assessing it with common sense. Drawing it out on paper to make sure I'll have enough fabric to do the quilt (this step is major, since my projects have a tendancy to grow before they are done! LOL ) Ask myself the same questions about a porject that I have on my focal point, check with any references online that can assist me and once in awhile give a shout out to one of the many friends in cyber land to verify my mathematics and thinking.

So when reading one of my favorite blogs I saw this topic and thought, WOW! great idea. Crazy mom quilts has many beautiful quilts and gives quick brief instructions. I'll paraphrase her directions and edit them along the way. ;~)


I'd like to list some basic quilt sizes:

A nice baby size quilt is around 42" x 52".
For a square baby quilt, anywhere from 36" to 42" works well.
A crib quilt measures 45" x 60".
A nice lap size quilt is 60" x 72".
Twin size, 63" x 88".
Full size, 78" x 88".
Queen, 84" x 92"
King, 100" x 92" or larger.


If you are making a quilt for a specific bed in your house, it's best to measure the top of your mattress and add the amount of overhang you want on each side, then you will have the perfect measurements for your bed. I'd recommend this, especially if you have a very deep mattress, or if you have head and foot boards to deal with. Or bunk beds.

These are target sizes. If your block calculations don't work out quite right, just round up.


So the numbers necessary for a twin size quilt:

A charm square=5".
Take away 1/2" (for seam allowances) and your finished square will equal 4.5".

63" (width of quilt) divided by 4.5" (finished square)=14
88" (length of quilt) divided by 4.5" (finished square)=19.56, which would round up to 20.

So 14 x 20=280 charm squares. Your layout will be 14 blocks wide by 20 blocks long. The quilt will measure 63" x 90".



This quilt was made by crazymom quilts. She had a nine patch a day challenge I started this past summer and mine is now in the UFO project pile, look at hers isn't it Pretty? I'll have to drag mine back to the front. I plan on making a quilt with D9P blocks on point with sashes, cornerstones and borders. Just recently I picked up 2 fabrics that will work for the borders and sashing, I'll have to lay it out to be sure.



For the 9 patch quilt based on a 6" finished nine patch:

The finished quilt measures 66" x 90" for the twin size. Each 9 patch block finishes at 6" and each sashing strip finishes at 2".

Since you want the quilt to be at least 78" wide, you will need 12 extra inches. You would need 20 extra blocks (ten for each additional column) and then add in the sashing 2" finished x 2 strips. The width of the twin quilt is 66" +12" (for the two extra columns of 9 patches) + 4" (for the two extra strips of sashing) =82", which is a bit wider than your target of 78", but close enough. Plus, it's nice to have it a bit too large than a bit too small. So the number of 9 patches needed would be 70 (from the original pattern) +20 = 90 for a full size quilt.



Now, a queen sized stacked coins quilt using this tutorial. It's the same tutorial I used for the baby doll blanket from this post but of course way smaller!

Your target size is 84" x 92".
Coins are cut 2.5" x 5", which will finish at 2" x 4.5".
The sashing is cut at 3.5", which will finish at 3".

The width of the quilt:
11 columns of coins x 4.5" (finished width)=49.5"
12 columns of sashing x 3" (finished width)=36".
49.5" (total coin width) + 36" (total sashing width)=85.5" wide. Perfect.

The length of the quilt:
This one will be worked backwards. You want it to be 92" long. Subtract 6", for the top and bottom sashing, which will give you 86".
86" divided by 2" (finished height of each coin) =43.
So 43 coins in each column x 11 columns= 473 coins.

473 divided by 2 (number of coins that are cut from a charm pack)=236.5, which would be rounded up to 237 charm squares required.
If there are 40 charms in a pack, you would need 6 packs of charms.

For the yardage needed for sashing, you will need 12 strips that are cut 3.5" x 86" and 2 strips that are cut 3.5" x 85.5". For this step, I'd enter those numbers into the handy dandy quilt calculator (someone had directed to me awhile back, thanks to whomever did so, it's so very wonderful!) which will tell me that:
for the 12 strips that measure 3.5" x 86"= 2.5 yards
for the 2 strips that measure 3.5" x 85.5"=2.375 yards
for a total of 4.88 yards, to which I would just round up to 5 yards.


Remember when calculating to use your FINISHED block size, not your CUT size, or you will have a quilt that will be much smaller than you want.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Adding this link to quilter's paradise about how much fabric to buy for borders. It allows and calculateshow much fabric for up to 5 borders on a quilt.

Many free patterns are on this link

Set in triangles math at Lyn Brown's.

The blog for sew many ways link is here which has many tool time tips and organizing.

Heather Thomas has a tutorial for piped bindings shown well here.

Partridge in a pear tree

Subject: A Partridge in a Pear Tree

There is one Christmas Carol that has always puzzled me. What in the
world do 5 gold rings, 4 calling birds, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge in the pear tree have to do with Christmas? This week, I found out.

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were
not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone
during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics.
It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning
plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element
in the carol has a code word for a religious reality
which the children could remember.

-The partridge in a pear tree was
Jesus Christ.

-Two turtle doves were the
Old and New Testaments.
-Three French hens stood for
faith, hope and love.

-The four calling birds were the four gospels
of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or
Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days
of creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented
the
sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching,
Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The eight maids a-milking were the
eight beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits
of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness,
Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The ten lords a-leaping were the
ten commandments.

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the
eleven faithful disciples.

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized
the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and
enlightening so I wanted to share it with you. Now I know how that strange song became a beloved Christmas Carol.

Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone
Jane

Quilt related blogs

How to quilt with ties

Thread Play author, Sarah Ann Smith.

Dawn interviews many and all quilt related goddesses.

Just a couple of blog links for reference for interesting topics and how tos.

Enjoy,
Jane

Little finish and the little man turns 1!

The little man of our family turns one today. We went and celebrated with daughter and her family. Here is an adorable photo of the 2 youngest grandchildren. What a joy they are.



As mentioned in the last post, my grand daughters speech therapist, Heather shared her last day with PGD#1 on Monday. Here is a little thank you I made to present to her.



Many times I heard them practicing the SHE sound, so it seemed appropriate to embellish that compound sound with some Kreineik filament blending thread to emphasize it. We had a little cupcake party towards the end of their session with blue and orange cupcakes. A blend of favorite colors representing each of them.

Enjoy your day,
Jane

Ideas with scrap therapy....

I thoroughly enjoyed meeting new quilters at the local quilt shop on Saturday. Pleased too that I was able to get some scraps cut. Now to carve out 15 minutes every day to keep tackling that scrap basket.
Joan Ford of Syracuse, NY created this idea and has been marketing 2 patterns each month to help eliminate the scraps you cut with this process. The idea is to cut
2", 3-1/2 " and 5" squares, and by sewng these sizes together as four patches, nine patches and/or half squares triangles that you can intertwinethese sizes and units to make a quilt pattern.
It was good to sit and cut from my scrap basket. While there, I met some quilters and lucky for me that one of them came with a bag of fleece scraps for dog bed fillers. I ooohed and awed over some of the scraps and she kindly offered them to me. I have some fibers in stock to make some little "bootie" slippers for the almost 1 year old grandson.
I should get to those right away too before he has a size 10 DD foot and then I'd have to run out and try to match more fabric to finish his slippers. I know, I know, I need help. LOL!

The idea is to cut 2", 3-1/2" and 5" scraps and by incorporating those sizes into sewn units which become larger patterns because they play so well together. Loose Threads Quilt Shop had many nice examples. Here are some of the samples they showed.



They are so nice and great quilters, so if you are ever in Plattsburgh, NY stop by their shop.

My Mom and I have been working on my scrap basket for awhile. Earlier this spring I had 3 huge containers of scraps. Now I have one huge basket left and many containers of cut pieces ready to be used. Many I have already implemented into quilts and many more ready to go. On some previous postings you have seen me using some of my scraps cuttings. But I do have so many sizes in my own system, that it was good to have a simplified system explained at the class. I have 1-1/2", 2",2-1/2", 3", 4" and 5" squares. Strips are cut in 1-1/2", 2" and 2-1/2" widths, and I think I may start a 5"strip width too. If pieces don't fit in those parameters then I do also save a 1"x5" string, weird strings pieces not parallel, mile a minute scraps and selvage strings. At this rate I'll have enough scarps to last 9 lives.
Here's alittle snap shop of an embroidery they had in a quilt they had in the long arm. It's too cute! If you know who this designer is, please let me know. I'd love to get this for another little stitchery for the holidays.

Afterward shopping for a gift for PGD#1 speech pathologist whose last visit is happening on Monday, I met DH out at a function. A friend was having a surprise 35 years in business celebration that we wanted to attend. There were many people there that I hadn't seen in quite awhile, so it was good to reconnect. Didn't stay out too late since being so emotional lately with the loss of a friend and a friend becoming a widow so young, that I was very tired. Home by 7pm and in bed by 9. A record for me, I guess I'm more tired than I had at first imagined. Stay Well and wish me luck finishing the surprise gift for the Speech therapist, Heather. She'll be missed. She has been a wonderful friend to our whole family.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Oh Santa, come back!!!!!

Twas the night before Christmas, I'm glued to the tree.

I'm wondering what Santa brought just for me.

Could it be a pattern, a fat quarter or lace?

Or a quilt kit, I said with a smile on my face.

And that's when I heard him,

"Hi Santa" I said.

"You know..good little girls should be in their beds."

"I know I should Santa and now I've got caught,

but I was just so excited to see what you've brought."

"Well, let's take a look at the room where you work"

He shook his head quickly, and left with a jerk,

I heard him explain as he put it in gear,

"You've got enough stuff, I'll see you next year!"



Authour unknown









Stay Well,

Jane

LOL ain't that the truth!
But if I'm really good, may I please get a Bernina 820 or 217 next year? A girl has to have some goals! LOL

First week of December,

Today is a cooking day while watching PGD#1. Sugar cookies done this am, turkey soup fixings all finished up for lunch and then onto a French Onion Soup with Roast beef for dinnertime.


While visiting all the doctors appointments lately in town and in Vermont, we were able to get some of the Christmas and Birthday shopping done. I also was able to add to my stash while traveling to RI last weekend, so now all I want to do is find some time to stay home and play with my fibers and toys.
The Alphabet sampler I started last Friday in my nephew's driveway is all done and I love that it's only been 1 week from start to finish. (Another little happy jig going on.) The colors recommended for it were Linen DMC threads and I did go with one linen -L223, the other 2 colours I used selected on my own. I'll share what I did when I get it framed and photographed. I was able to pick up another 8" square frame in VT on Wednesday, but I think a larger frame would be better since they look so much better when framed with a mat. I'll have to check out what is available at Michaels tomorrow when I go into town for a class I'm taking. I'm taking the scrap therapy class offered at a LQS.

A good friend passed away suddenly this afternoon so my dinner plans went amuck. But friendships are such a powerful thing, that you have to honor and cherish when needed. Say prayers please.

Be Well,
Jane

Small family gatherings

My Thanksgiving Holiday was wonderful. All my children and grandchildren came home except for PGS#1 for the holiday. A wonderful feast which I know I contributed the least amount ever in my life. Only had to make 4 pies and some of the condiments like cranberry sauce, pickles and stuff. All other dishes were provided by my daughter and my son and his wife. The menu was wonderful. Ham stuffed with collards(thanks M), Deep fried turkey(thanks S), roasted turkey(S), parsnips and carrots(M), squash(S&DH), green bean casserole(M), stuffing(S), mashed potatoes(DH), gravy(S&DH), celery with cream cheese(T) were the items at the table. Besdies all that comraderie and family fellowship.
With so many entries, I only took one tablespoon of each and felt totally satisfied and blessed. We have so much to be grateful for and feel wonderfully blessed with living in this country so with a umble heart I wish the people throughout the world to have enough. Enough food to elimuinate starvation and disease. Enough liberty to enjoy their family fellowship, religious beliefs, and political freedoms. Enough peace without feeling threatened by bullies to provide for their family. Enough joy to be able to look forward to the next day. As well as Enough love to know that they matter in this world. Namaste.

As for my UFOs I am currently stitching an alphabet sampler I mentioned in this previous post. Working it with DMC Linen thread L223, DMC Metallic-Jewel Effects E316(5288), and I still have to decide what the third color will be yet. I'll audition it more after completing these 2 other colors first. Using an Aida 14 count white cloth. While traveling to RI to visit with Mom and a couple of brothers this past weekend, it was the perfect transportable project. It was a Quick trip, but it was nice to reconnect with them. This was the last year that my eldest brother will be hosting it. He's offering the "torch" onto a younger sister to host since she has been wanting/offering to have it.
As for the angel doll blanket, I now have to quilt it and bind it. The embroidery part is finished, and I found some hot-fix crystals that will be perfect for it that I'll probably adhere in the waist band area after it's done.

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Thankful!

Have a gratitude attitude!



I do and am glad that I was able to finish the Thankgiving Patchability last night. Phew! Just in time for the Holiday and then I'll be taking it down. Here's a close up of some of the detail.


Recently I've seen this you tube production and it makes me feel glad and grateful. You have to take a look at this video that was created to raise awareness of breast cancer. Once it reaches 1 million hits Medline will make a big contribution to Providence St.Vincent Medical Center in Portland, Oregon and will be offering free mammograms to their local community. Way to go Emily MacInnes Somers for choreographing and getting so many hospital employees to participate in "The Pink Glove Dance". Many of us have been touched by the effects of breast cancer in some form or fashion either directly or through a loved one.
Awareness is a beautiful thing.

Happy Thanksgiving,
Jane

Son's passion....

Check it out. My son loves his swift water rescue, ice water rescue, high angle rope rescue, technical animal rescue and is certified to teach world wide through the Rescue 3 International Inc. Check out his slides on you tube. He teaches all parts of this technical rescue and can be reached at saranactechrescue@yahoo.com or leave a message here and I'll let him know.

Enjoy!
Jane

Have you ever wondered...

I love shopping for fabric and textiles, but probably really should say anything to do with my latest obsession or focalized hobby. When I visit quilt shops, I could be there for hours, checking out all the new fabric lines, looking and learning the manufacturer and designers on the labels. Of course feeling the fabric and imagining how I could incorporate this "new" gem into my stash. Now with being on the next no-buy challenge through the stashbusters group I belong too, I have almost stopped any frivolous purchases. I still love to go into the shops though and just browse. BUt I seriously never thought about how those lovelies get on the bolt. Surprising!
While visiting a blog I frequent, I saw how fabrics are placed onto the bolts. If your interested, check out this posting on Beth Ferrier's blog.
Interesting how the machine puts the fold in the fabric when wrapping it onto the bolts. You'll see the rolls waiting on the shelves, followed by the bolts stacked and waiting on the shelves. I wonder how many steps it takes from start to finish.
Excuse me while I'm pondering. Well, I'm off to get to some things I need to attend to.

Stay Well,
Jane

Got them framed!

Finished these stitcheries awhile ago and had to order the mats. The Michael's store that I ordered them at sends the orders away and it took a couple of weeks to get it back. I picked the mats up Thursday while in town for a class and finally got to it today.


The first is Autumn Spots put out by Trilogy. Had trouble finding an appropriate "leaf" bead /button, but found this one while shopping with daughter in Burlington. Not quite what I had in mind but it's the best I could find. The picture on the right is the Pumpkkin by JBW that was written about in this post. Love it- 2 more totally finished!

A close friend stopped by to visit and brought a few gifties to celebrate my latest Birthday. Thanks Gina, I absolutely love them. The 2 pumpkins are textured and the burgandy panels complements my living room colors. She had won a raffle with a container full of items.



Alot of these items came from that besides a couple extra that she and her husband selected knowing my interests. Notice that yarn and the Nantucket style basket. Perfect! I do enjoy decorating the house for the different seasons, but even more so now with the grandchildren.
Check out the Pandora bracelet that DD and PGD#1 and PGS#3 gave me. I cried. It was very touching and the charms are perfect. A Granddaughter, grandson and an ORANGE charm (PGD's favorite color, PGS#3 is too little yet to have a favorite).


My Mom did an appliqued angel block and wasn't satisfied with the face she drew on it so was going to ditch it. Luckily, she offered it to me and I thought it would be perfect doll blanket for PGD#1. Since orange is her favorite color, I bought that color binding to make a blanket edge on the little qultlet. I mentioned this project on a previous post and started the orange embroidery someone recently suggested while discussing it at the edging class I took with Diane Shink. Here's a photo of what Mom did with the selected binding.


This will be my next "focus" project in my UFO conumdrum. LOL

Happy Stitching,
Jane

Some handy embroidery links

This post is aconvenience for me. Some of my favorite sights to get information from.
For thread chart substutions go here.

For fabric size calculator with the difference size thread counts go here- A Great tool!

Here is a video link showing how to do stitches.

And this blog has many embroidery stitching directions.

Hope you find these as helpful.
Happy Stitching,
Jane

pattern links

Link for a tutorial of a quilted wallet. Nice looking.

Adult bib directions.

QAYG method

One more done!

Yippee! Another one down. Inspiration came Tuesday and I was able to strike while the iron was hot. Finished it tonight at a class that I followed, visited with friends, and all the while doing my hand work. Check it out.


You guessed it, all the fabrics for the piecing, framing and backing came from my scrap bins with the exception of the first little brown scrap border, that came from a friend's scrap bin. Thanks Trudy! Yippee, more used up. Many of the fabrics were used in 2 pillows, 2 pillow cases, a queen size quilt that won Best of Show at Paul Smith's Quilt Conference Service's Quilt Show and a pansy wreath wall hanging. Would you believe I still have more squares left!$#@&**!^&!!!! YIKES! Will they ever be gone?

Happy Stitching,
Jane

PS: I think I'm on a roll now.

think quote

Think

If you think you are beaten, you are;

If you think you dare not, you don't;

If you'd like to win but you think you can't,

You can almost be certain you won't.

If you think that you'll lose, you are lost,

For out in the world you will find

Success begins with a person's will;

It's all in the state of the mind.

If you think you're outclassed you are;

You've got to think high to rise.

You've just got to be sure of yourself

Before you can win the prize.

Life's battles don't always go

To a stronger or faster man;

But sooner or later the person who wins

Is the person that THINKS they can.

- Anon.

Veteran's Day

Flower of Remembrance - Veterans Day
In Flanders Fields
By John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly.
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.




This was the poem written by World War I Colonel John McCrae, a surgeon with Canada's First Brigade Artillery. It expressed McCrae's grief over the "row on row" of graves of soldiers who had died on Flanders' battlefields, located in a region of western Belgium and northern France. The poem presented a striking image of the bright red flowers blooming among the rows of white crosses and became a rallying cry to all who fought in the First World War. The first printed version of it reportedly was in December 1915, in the British magazine Punch.
McCrae's poem had a huge impact on two women, Anna E. Guerin of France and Georgia native Moina Michael. Both worked hard to initiate the sale of artificial poppies to help orphans and others left destitute by the war. By the time Guerin established the first sale in the U.S., in 1920 with the help of The American Legion, the poppy was well known in the allied countries — America, Britain, France, Canada, Australia and New Zealand — as the "Flower of Remembrance." Proceeds from that first sale went to the American and French Children's League.
Guerin had difficulty with the distribution of the poppies in early 1922 and sought out Michael for help. Michael had started a smaller-scaled Poppy Day during a YMCA conference she was attending in New York and wanted to use the poppies as a symbol of remembrance of the war. Guerin, called the "Poppy Lady of France" in her homeland, and Michael, later dubbed "The Poppy Princess" by the Georgia legislature, went to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for help. Following its first nationwide distribution of poppies, the VFW adopted the poppy as its official memorial flower in 1922.
However, a shortage of poppies from French manufacturers led to the idea of using unemployed and disabled veterans to produce the artificial flowers. In 1924, a poppy factory was built in Pittsburgh, Pa., providing a reliable source of poppies and a practical means of assistance to veterans. Today, veterans at Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities and veterans homes help assemble the poppies, which are distributed by veterans service organizations throughout the country.
Donations received in return for these artificial poppies have helped countless veterans and their widows, widowers and orphans over the years. The poppy itself continues to serve as a perpetual tribute to those who have given their lives for the nation's freedom.

I was thinking it appropriate to share some of the information I have gathered on this topic, especially in light of it being Veteran's Day today.

So to all who have served, supported and embraced liberty, I thank you.

Jane

What I'm Working ON.....

This little tidbit is currently on my sewing table. I finished an embroidery in the Spring of 2008, and it's been hanging on my design wall since, even repositioning it when needed. I found some inspiration today while looking at it and here's a sneak peek.


There is no pattern for what I want to accomplish, so I'm trying to plan it out ahead of time that way I'll hopefully eliminate any errors. Wish me luck.
I love having finishes and proceeding on my quilty and needleworks but I'm at a loss to explain ultimately why I keep setting them aside. Years ago I know it was because I was taking too many classes, that I wouldn't have time to finish one project and then I'd be jumping into the next project wholeheartedly. So after that realization, I have been able to slow down in classthat taking, almost to a screeching halt.
Another attempt was going as far as bringing scraps to quite a few classes so I could learn the technique but not have another project started. As soon as the class was over I would literally throw it away, since I learned what I wanted and it really was only a scrap fabric or would file it in with the paper work for a reference if needed. Quilting has been a process not only of my creativity but also has shown me glimpses of my authentic self. Sometimes that has not the best picture, but even then I am grateful for what I am and have been learning and the many friendships made along the way. Love the journey.

This is a current picture of the design wall in my sewing studio. A sight that has not changed in over a year and I'm sick of looking at it like that so....it's time for a change! Stay tuned and I'll show you shortly what I have done.


While ebaying recently, I was fortunate to win a few treasures for my want to do someday stuff in CXS. Maybe I'm switching my spending to that now instead of fabrics and quilting. I hope not. Usually these patterns run for $8.00 or more each. Of Course, I bought them recycled so no where near that price. Now to start kitting them up until they can be stitched. I like to package them with the appropriate fabric and thread so they are ready to go at any moments notice, yet at the same time, I only want one or two going at a time.

Most of the family got together since we celebrated another Birthday today. DH made a great carrot cake (not from a box). Half decorated with a cream cheese frosting and the other with an orange rum glaze. YUMMO! Both wonderful and not exactly what I've been eating lately. But it's a celebration and I thoroughly enjoyed all parts of it. Enjoy your day, I'm enjoying mine.

Jane

Cross Country Christmas Blog Hop

They are 12 designers that are starting the countdown to their Cross Country Christmas Blog Hop. These designers have designed a special project to share with anyone who visits their blog. The projects are themed around gift giving, quick and easy to get done before Christmas. Along with all the projects, they will be sharing stories from childhood/adulthood, recipes and traditions so this will be a great opportunity for you to learn more about them if you stop by every day.

Here is the lineup of designers along with the date that they post their project, be sure to check every designers blog each day to read their stories. Put these blogs in your favorites folder now so you will be ready on November 9th the kickoff day.

Nov 9 - Gudrun of GE Designs will be starting it off, a MN transplant from Iceland

Nov 10 - Sandy from Pieces of My Heart lives in Iowa (born and raised in MN though!!)

Nov 11 - Terry of Atkinson Designs is a Minnesota girl

Nov 12 - Pat Sloan is a Virginia native

Nov 13 - Heather of Anka's Treasures is another Minnesota chick

Nov 14 - Pam from Pam Kitty Morning is a California girl

Nov 15 - Kari of New Leaf Stitches is from Minnesota

Nov 16 - Terri from Whimsicals is well centered in Indiana

Nov 17 - Sherri of This and That is also a MN designer

Nov 18 - Carrie from Miss Rosie's Quilt Company is in Arizona

Nov 19 - Roseann from Rosebud's Cottage is from Minnesota

Nov 20 - Linda is from New Jersey and she is our anchor

I am so excited about this blog hop and can't wait to get to see what they have come up with. Like the most blog hops, there will be some fabulous Grand Prizes!!
Check it out.

Jane

Christmas Pot holder Tutorial

A quickie pattern link for a quick finish tutorial by Karen Neary.



What a coincindence! Diane Shink who also co-authored the book advertised on this blog was a guest speaker at our Guild on November 4th. She had many lovely quilts.This first photo is a quilt that she coined as "Bad Alice" since the dolls face looked a little miffed.


I absolutely loved this embroidered quilt. Truly beautiful and it reminds me of something my grandmother would have made.



This next one is one she made several years ago.


The Work on it was amazing, what a talented quilter.


I am taking a class with her tomorrow on finishing edges and am looking forward to it.


Happy Stitching,
Jane

PS added 11/13/09: Oooops, I had misspelled Karen Neary's last name so came back to fix it. Sorry Karen! Diane's class was very informative and I enjoyed it. I brought in an appliqued angel so I could double check my idea for the satin wrapped edges and Diane shink thought it would be a good match for a little girls doll blanket. So now to get that UFO higher on my list. I think I'll go prewash all the silky fabric for backing and the satin ribbon for the edges.