A Quilting Journey

AHHHHH ... Quilt Travel ...

2011-07-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

Been there, done that ...
Got the Tote Bag.
I made a quick dash (LOL - it's all relative, if you ask me) down to the Long Beach Int'l Quilt Festival. While there I saw a few friends ...

And even caught Christine at Make It University. Christine is such a talented quilter ...

I wonder how she will work this technique into a future quilt.

I also met up with Mel and got a copy of the new book she did with Mary Lou Weidman. What a fun book. I can't wait to sit down with a good cup of coffee and do some reading this weekend.

I picked up some little needles and a little needle case along with some other goodies. I will have to get a picture of that later.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful weekend.

More Applique at Lake Tahoe ...

2011-07-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

We did have some rain come in late one day and had light showers part of the next day, but you know it didn't matter.

I took this next photo late in the day on Thursday.

This was my daily view ... awesome!
And then of course there was sunset. It was such a wonderful week.

I definately want to go back again.

More on Applique in Tahoe ...

2011-07-11T13:29:00.000-07:00

We were in this awesome room that was all windows on the lake side. Plenty of natural light during the day!
Check out the quilts on the back wall! Absolutely gorgeous.
There were tutorials each day that covered additional skills for Baltimore Album quilts. You know, things like ribbon embroidery, ribbon roses, inking, couching, regular embroidery, bead work and Ruching.

And what a talented group of ladies! It was so much fun.

A Little Bit of R&R ... and Applique ...

2011-07-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

Well, let me start by saying I hated to get back to work on the 5th of July.

I left home on Sunday, the 26th of June for a wonderful 5 day Retreat. Can you guess where ?

LAKE TAHOE!

Because of a prior obligation, I wasn't able to leave until the afternoon. A short drive (at least by my defination) then a quick stop to pick up my friend Deanna, and then we were on our way.

Check in was at 3 pm. But because of our late start we didn't arrive until after dark. We checked in, unloaded our things and found our sewing tables. A few people we knew were still up stitching, we visited for a few minutes then went to find our room and go to bed.

Next morning I woke up early and peeked out the window. OMG!

I cleaned up and then hurried outside to take the picture above. This was the view from our room!

It was so beautiful!

Did I mention that I hated to go back to work on the 5th?

BREAKING NEWS !!!!

2011-07-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

I am updating my blog! LOL

I do actually have some new things and pictures to post, but first I have to share some information.

I received an email from a friend of mine. Seems his friend is selling off fabric and has blogged about it. I guess there are more posts to come. It never hurts to look right?

Thanks for stopping by.

A Hot Day in September ...

2010-09-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

and a late afternoon coffee meeting with Pam. It was good to get together and gab, seems like forever since our last visit or sew day.

Well, we didn't have a sew day together this trip, but I was able to get some quilting time in. I attended 2 applique workshops in Livermore that were being held at Quilting in the Garden at Alden Lane Nursery. What a wonderful show once again. Cindy and her crew at Alden Lane did another fantastic job on the show. It was awesome.

I have pictures, but have to make this blog entry short as I head out the door. A lot has happened since my last blog post, so once again I have some catching up to do.

Have a wonderful day and thanks for stopping by.

Sew Days with Friends are always so much fun ...

2010-06-25T12:42:00.000-07:00

Just to sit, sew and laugh ... always fun if you ask me.

These pictures are from a sew day we had at Debbie's earlier this year.

Debbie is doing the Civil War Tribute block of the month from In Between Stitches.

And she was also very busy making a million tiny Desden Plate blades for a quilt for one of the girls. Okay so maybe not a million ... I think it was something like 754 - it was over 700 anyway.

And I was busy working on these little gems.

And then I made the larger block in the background for a Block Lottery at In Between Stitches.

They have a different one each month. It was, fun even though I didn't win.

And also worked on making a bunch of these little guys too.

Have more photos to go through, but will leave that for another day.

Hope you are all able to spend fun filled days sewing with friends.

Thanks for stopping by.

I wish I could be home sewing today ...

2010-06-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

but ... "duty" calls and I have to go to work.

~~~

I have been working on a few things these past 5 months though. There was the Pirate Quilters Retreat, some sew days with friends and I have been also doing a Block A Month with an out-of-state friend. I have pictures to go through and post, so hopefully I will get my act together and get that done soon.

~~~

So, for those of you that have been stopping by and have been seeing the same 'ol same 'ol, there will be some new entries for you to look forward to.

~~~

That said .... I am out the door to work.

~~~

I wish I was home sewing ...

Did You Adopt a Shelter Dog in 2009?

2010-01-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

If you did, Pedigree has an offer for YOU!

If you adopted a dog any time during the 2009 calendar year you can send in an offer for some free Pedigree.

Here is the link to the Pedigree Offer to read all about it. But don't wait too long. The deadline is February 2010.

That's all I've got for now (I was reminded to update my blog).

A Good Start to the Day ...

2009-12-30T07:51:00.000-08:00

Jim brought me birthday Banana Bread and a Peppermint Mocha. Now that's the way to start off a birthday.

The only downside is having to work today, but that's okay.

No one said life was perfect.

Time Slips Away ...

2009-12-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

as it so easily does ...

Someone very close to me was getting after me about not updating my blog. And it is true, I have let time slip by ... always intending to update my blog but never quite getting around to it. Marlene would have definately been after me about not updating things here as well. She was good about keeping me on track.

A lot of fun things have happened since my last post and most recently something very sad.

This is Rio.

A very loved and some would say spoiled girl. But that's the best kind, right. This photo was taken just this past summer.

Rio passed away on Wednesday, December 23. She would have been 16 in May of next year. She was such a sweet and loving girl. She loved to travel with me and didn't care where we were going, she just wanted to be going too.

I miss you baby girl.

2 Days of Sewing Bliss ...

2009-09-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

I am in piecing heaven. As usual I brought way too many projects to work on, but the good news is ... I have been able to spend time with friends doing what I love.

Will post pictures when I get back to my computer.

If you are out there and sewing ... hoping you are having as much fun as me!

Blogiversary Winner is ...

2009-09-11T05:59:00.001-07:00

The list randomizer at Random.org has selected Mama T.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Mama T please email me your mailing information.

Thank you all for participating.

A Belated Blogiversary ... finally

2009-09-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

Please, please excuse the delay, I know it has been a while. I just needed to get back on track with everything and, of course, something else had to go wrong. But now I think all of that is behind me, so on with the celebration.

So the blogiversary celebration is about 5 weeks late, but better late than never. And what better way to celebrate then with a Giveaway!!

Since the Fall and Winter seasons are fast approaching I decided that flannel would be very appropriate.

This is a complete quilt kit (finished quilt measures 60"x60") and includes backing and binding. I will select the winner on Friday the 11th, 6 am PT. No special questions to answer or hoops to jump through. Just leave a comment.

Thank you for coming and reading my blog.

Mending and Sewing ...

2009-08-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I have finished all of my meds and am very much on the mend. Recovery is very apparent. Things have not completely returned to normal, but everything is a far cry from what it was.

There is some quilting news to report. Last weekend Pam had a small gathering at her place and I was able to spend Saturday and Sunday sewing with Holly, Bonnie, Alison and Pam. It was good to see everyone again and spend time sewing and laughing. Dwight took good care of us once again and kept us well fed. He is an awesome cook and you know we had to keep our strength up.

On Friday, I did take a trip to Helen's for a Sew Day at her house and had a wonderful day. Everyone there was doing hand work, myself included. Several of the ladies there are working on Baltimore Album quilt blocks and, I must say, it is going to be a gorgeous quilt. These ladies do exquisite applique. One of the ladies, Sandra, showed us a block she was working using wool. It was so beautiful, the wool just seemed to glow. And Kris was working on the cutiest little apron blocks using 30's fabrics. Did I say it was a wonderful day - well it was. Good friends, good food and a perfect day with needle in hand.

On a blogging note ... my Blogiversary was postponed because of things that were going on. Be sure to check back, something is in the works.

Not much new ... really ...

2009-07-31T07:15:00.000-07:00

I don't really have anything new on the quilting front. In retrospect my memories of the trip to and at the Long Beach Int'l Quilt Festival are a bit fuzzy. No doubt because I was being attacked by a virus and didn't know it. I only had a few small purchases, a couple of them being gifts, so sorry no photos of those. And unfortunately, no pictures from the show.

Well, a trip to my doctor, continued meds and I think things a starting to turn around. It is going to be a slower recovery than I would like, but at this point I am not going to complain.

Take care of yourselves, one and all. You never know when a bug is gonna creep up on you and getcha when you least expect it!

You know what they say ...

2009-07-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Early on Friday my neighbor, Rose, and I set off to the Long Beach International Quilt Festival. Excitement filled the air as we chatted in the car during the drive.

We arrived, did an early check in at our hotel and walked over to the Convention Center. Did I mention that excitement filled the air? Well, it was.

It was fantastic entering the show room … Robert Duval said it best …

I love the smell of fabric in the morning!

Ok, ok, maybe he smelled something else, but you know what I’m talking about.

The day was great. We had decided to take in the vendors on Friday, of course, and Saturday we would spend on the Quilt Exhibits. So far so good. Got to chat with a lot of people I knew. Did a bit of shopping and saw several projects that I thought would be fun to do.

The day was GREAT. We met with some of Rose’s friends in the evening and had fun talking, laughing and hearing stories of Rose and Marge’s antics.

Then early Saturday morning things took an unexpected turn. I had to go to the doctor for some emergency care. Nothing life threatening, but enough to have to change our plans for the day. So, we stopped to pick up the necessary medications and a couple of other med supplies. Another stop for something to eat and then on the road for the long drive home.

I was so disappointed not to be able to go back for the second day, but it couldn’t be helped. It was just one of those things.

But we did have a fantastic time on Friday and that is what's most important. Sometimes the good does come with the bad. You just have to make the best of it and move on. I think we did.

It's not too late ...

2009-07-17T17:06:00.000-07:00

To go over and wish PamKittyMorning a Happy Birthday!

4 + 4 + 1 = FUN

2009-07-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been busy getting the last of my Lost Sock blocks appliqued. I can now say that they are done and ready to be trimmed and assembled. I know, I keep talking about these blocks and I don't have any pictures posted of them. I will have to remedy that.

So ... 4 + 4 + 1 = FUN ... what does it all mean anyway ...

It started with 4 days in the country ...

Followed by 4 days on the coast ...

and then today I came home ...

to this!! Not the best quality, but you get the idea.

Have a Happy 4th!

Strange Looking Ruler ...

2009-06-25T08:15:00.001-07:00

Have you seen this specialty ruler by Creative Grids? Kim blogged about it and I have to say I was intrigued. It is for cutting Half Square Triangles out of 2½ strips (or Jelly Rolls). I have not seen one in person yet. I checked out the Creative Grids website and they have several specialty rulers. They even have instructions that can be Downloaded.

Kim really seemed to like hers and I can see why. Do you have one? How do you like it? Inquiring bloggers want to know.

... And Other Times Life is Great

2009-06-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

So last weekend was a quiet one at home. Just a bit of yardwork (never ending) and some hand applique.

But the weekend before ... a Sew Day with friends!! Now that's my kinda weekend!!! We all gathered at Debbie's again. Pam was going to help us struggling machine applique-ers and give us some much needed pointers. And we were going to have a potluck lunch.

And check out what Pam brought for each of us - OMG!!! The towels are so neat. Pam brought the towels all prepped and ready to stitch. Having never done machine applique before I didn't want to ruin my towel, so first I practiced on another block I had. After my practicing I felt confident enough to tackle my towel. But this whole machine applique stuff might make me start thinking about a sewing machine upgrade. hmmmm

So our potluck lunch was very good. Pam brought a cheese ball w/crackers, veggies and dip, and the most delicious (and cute, I might add) mini bear claws.

I brought all the fixins for a 'build your own" taco salad. Debbie supplied all the beverages and of course opened up her home to us once again. And Deanna brought some out of this world Apple Dumplings (recipe courtesy of The Pioneer Woman).

Well, we had an absolutely fun day. We sewed, we laughed, and of course we ate.

I finished up my towel. Yipee!

So here is a pic of my goodies. Pam brought the towels and Deanna brought each of us some homemade Raspberry Jam. YUM!

Elizabeth sent a copy of her Words on Quilts book for a giveaway. Deanna already had a copy, so the drawing was going to be between Debbie and me. Pam had Deanna choose a number between 1 and 25. You know, I would have never guessed 34. LOL Debbie wouldn't have either, so we had to have a giveaway do-over. We laughed so hard. It was too funny. Debbie won the book.

Needless to say we had a wonderful day.

Honest Scrap Award

2009-06-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

I have been given this award by Gizmo over at Gizmo Quilts.

Thank you for including me.

Here are the rules:

First: You have to tell your readers 10 things about you they may not already know, but are true.

Second: You have to tag 10 people with the award.

Third: You have to let the people you've given the award to, know that they've received this award from you.

Finally: Make sure you link back to the person who awarded you.

So, 10 things … here goes …

I am the youngest of 3 but the only one that quilts.
I do not wear makeup.
I don’t like tapioca pudding or soggy bread or soggy cereal.
I still live in the same town where I was born.
I have never broken any bones.
I love stream fishing, but haven’t been in years.
I have only driven in the snow once in my life.
I don’t like to fly.
I have never been on a roller coaster.
I saw Stevie Ray Vaughan in concert 3 times before his untimely death.

In random order, these are 10 bloggers I enjoy reading. Some you may know … others might be new to you. Hope you enjoy their reading their blogs too.

Have fun!

Sometimes life doesn't cooperate ...

2009-06-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

As I have said before … I love Sew Days with friends.

Last weekend Helen had a gathering at her place and I so wished I could have gone, but I had to work. I know from past experience that they had a great time. Helen if you are reading this – I was thinkin’ about you guys all day! Hopefully next time work won’t conflict with her get together.

The first 11 days of June have shown a little quilty progress. I have continued to work on my Lost Sock blocks off and on in the evening. The weather has been on the cooler side so I have also been trying to get some much needed yard work done.

That being said ... there were fun days in my future.

Another Sew Day Gathering ...

2009-06-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

I love getting together with friends for Sew Days.

The weekend after the Pirate Quilters Retreat another group of friends gathered for a Sew Day. We were down a couple, PamKittyMorning and Alex were gone to Quilt Market and Holly was suffering (yeah, right) through a vacation in Hawaii. So it was just the “Triple D’s” again, Deanna, Debbie and me. Deanna had a morning commitment, so Debbie and I were on our own until the afternoon. When Deanna arrived we had a wonderful lunch of Veggies w/Dip, Italian Crockpot Beef sandwiches, Macaroni Salad and Chocolate Brownies for dessert and then continued on with our sewing.

Debbie worked on some curtains and then prepped some leaves for an applique border.

Deanna worked on a binding ...

and then some applique.

I brought my sock blocks from the Lost Sock Swap that Marlene had organized. I thought I had mine all finished, but as I went though them I realized that I had mine to do still. So I did hand work instead of block trimming and sock block assembly. The day passed all too quickly.

Another Sew Day has been planned and I am looking forward to it once again – I just love days like these.

I set sail for one of the best weekends ever ...

2009-05-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

The call for all hands on deck had arrived and finally it was time to cast off.

The colours had been hoisted.

And we were welcomed with open arms.

Pam had seen to every detail and made certain our quarters were well stocked with supplies.

I had such a great weekend and I just don't know where to begin. We were technically nine, but were a crew of eight, Pam, Kathy, Helen, Kris, Bonnie, Cynthia, Carolyn and me.
A few of us had cameras and took close to 400 pictures all together. Pam copied all of the photos from our disks and is going to compile a CD for everyone.
Pam had everything set up for us and so we were all able to get right in and start working on our projects - it's all about product and none of us wanted to walk the plank (they run a tight ship at the Pirate Quilters Retreat).

So here is where I have to jump ahead, because I don't have all of the photos yet.

Thursday night we had the most wonderful Lasagna dinner prepared by Pam's very own Cap'n Cook. And of course Rum Cake for dessert. It was all delish! And then it was back to work.

Friday morning we found coffee and juice waiting for us. Cap'n Cook was in the galley and prepared a fantastic French Toast breakfast. We had a busy day ahead of us and needed plenty of energy. Cynthia brought a couple of games for us to play and the first was started right after breakfast. We were all given a quilt retreat related charm and then were told that we couldn't say the would QUILT. If you did you had to give up your charm. The person with the most charms at 3pm would then get ALL the charms and a bracelet too. Kathy was the winner in the end, but let me just say that some of these quilting pirates were a bit more cut throat than others - and I am not going to name names ... Kathy and Bonnie!
Promptly at 10am we headed to the Quilter's Cupboard to stock up on supplies and then made a quick trip over to Sew Fun to get anything else we may have overlooked. And then it was back to work, breaking for a lunch of Italian Crockpot Beef sandwiches. Then back to an afternoon of sewing. The Cap'n brought in a round of Strawberry Margaritas late in the afternoon and before we knew it it was time for dinner.
The Cap'n and his 1st mate (Pam) served the crew a Chicken Enchilada dinner. And then it was time for dessert of Olallieberry Pie. The Cap'n pulled the crew together for the pie presentation and here is what was served up.

Cynthia had made pincushions for everyone!

Why that pie looks good enough to eat!

Next we had real Olallieberry Pie for dessert! YUM.

And then we played a game called Left, Right, Center.

The prize was all of these fat quarters! And I won!!! WooHoo!

We got another early start on Saturday and got busy after breakfast. A stop mid day to have a bite of lunch and then back to the fun stuff.

Cap'n Cook prepared a round of Lemon Drops and Pepper Popper appetizers.
We sewed until dinner time and then had the best BBQ Rib dinner.

The time passed quickly, but we did manage to squeeze in quite a bit of sewing. We also had some demos. Helen and Kris both did demos on hand applique. They both do exquisite work - absolutely stunning.
Pam demoed the little baskets from the Pink Penguin.
We all had so much fun. A lot of laughing, we sang the Pirate Song and the group even heard the theme song from the Super Chicken cartoon show.
It was a fantastic 4 days and it was so good seeing everyone again. The crew was absolutely the best and I hated to see it end. We are already looking forward to next time.

With rubber banana in hand ...

2009-05-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

So here I am at the local Blood Bank this morning (right now, actually) doing a plasma/blood donation. The rubber banana is the "squeeze toy" they give you. It has been a while since my last donation. Things were just too busy with my trips to see Marlene, working on her quilt, work and, well, you get the picture. Our Blood Bank is really cool. The stations for plasma and platelet donations are set up for internet access. Very cool. The only drawback is having to type with one hand.

This weekend has been going by all too quickly. I am looking forward to some expanded quilting time in the very near future though and time with good friends.

A little bit country - a little bit quilt show ...

2009-05-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

Once again I have gotten behind on my blog entries. The last 2 weekends have been fun filled quilting weekends.

Back on April 18, a group of us got together once again for a fantastic fun filled Sew Day. Debbie was our hostess and we were a “quiet” group of 4 (Pam, Deanna, Debbie and me). Debbie served up a wonderful lunch and had lots of goodies for us to snack on throughout the day. Alex was able to drop in for lunch - it’s always good to see her. And I was glad she could take a quick break from her Asilomar prep to stop by. We have another Sew Day on the calendar and I am looking forward to spending the time with good friends once again.

Last weekend was also quilt related sewing fun. Saturday morning started with a quick trip to a quilt show. I got to the show early and then met up with my mom and my neighbor, Rose. The show was very nice and there about 350 quilts on display. I did remember to take my camera, but very inconveniently forgot to bring fresh batteries. Wouldn’t it be nice to have batteries for sale at quilt shows. Maybe it would just help to remember them when leaving the house.

After the show I went home and loaded up the car and the dog for a weekend of country quilting. I spent the rest of Saturday and all day Sunday in the quiet and solitude of the country. I got to see the “deer family” off in the distance – too far off to get a picture with my camera and fresh batteries. And then on Sunday morning I could hear the turkeys off somewhere down the road.

There weren’t any possum emergencies in the “hood” since my last post. That’s a good thing I guess. I hope to get some more sewing done this weekend. Hope you are all able to do the same.

Mondays - who knew ...

2009-04-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

Mondays – usually just the beginning of the work week. And today, this Monday is just the typical run of the mill kind of start to the week. Last week on the other hand was a different story.

Last Monday was just routine. Starting with coffee, a shower, and getting dressed. Oh yeah, must not forget the high speed car chase being covered on the news. I think it was north bound on 110. Not all that familiar with the freeways in southern CA.

The chase had just ended with the “purp” veering across all lanes of traffic and crashing into the center divider and ending in the center of the freeway injured and unable to exit the vehicle.

This is where my day suddenly changes direction …

My neighbor from across the street appears at my door and tells me he needs help. He has a possum in his yard and doesn’t know what to do. I suggest just chucking it over the fence, but he says he thinks it is dying or dead. He “called animal control and they don’t do anything about them”. I suggested that if it’s dead just “bag it up for disposal”. He says “ oh no, they give me the creeps”. So I said I would be over in a minute. I grabbed my “can” and headed over to find a very docile possum in the planter near his side door. He was concerned about it’s location and his 2 yr old daughter. As he asked if I needed a shovel or something, I just went over and picked it up and put it in “the can”. Too bad I didn’t have my camera to get a pic of the look on his face. Too funny. I have a place near a creek in the hills where I relocate them to keep them from returning and I would do that after work. With the can in my yard and some fruit in with the critter, I was about to return to my routine when 2 police cars pulled up the street. I asked if they had come about the possum and they said yes. I told them I had taken care of it, let them know what my plans were and showed the contained critter to them. My neighbor came over and said “Yeah, you should have seen her. She just went over and grabbed it. There’s no way I could have done that, they give me the creeps.” The police left. I went about my day. When I got home I checked on the possum. Seems it was dying and by the time I got back home it has passed. So I wrapped it up to take out to Animal Services for disposal.

So there you have it. I’m not sure how I became the neighborhood person in charge of who to get when you don’t know what else to do. This wasn’t the first time and I’m sure it won’t be the last.

Hope you all have a Monday that is just routine.

A "Triple F S" Day ...

2009-04-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

So here we go again with the letters ... LOL

Last Saturday was spent with Friends. And what a great time we had. I left home on Friday and took a leisurely drive north to Debbie's. As I got closer to Debbie's, I had to do a loop around the block to get a pic of this lovely gal. I say gal because of the hat (and maybe because "she" is pink).

I made a quick stop to see Pam. And I just have to say that RocketKittyMorning is a hoot and a half. He lets you know that you are obligated to pet him and scratch his butt. Too funny!

Anyway, getting back to the Triple FS.

Saturday was all about Friends, Fun, Food ... and Sewing. Susan, Holly, Debbie, Pam, Alex and myself had a wonderful day. We worked on a group project to honor our friend Marlene. It was our first sew day together since Marlene's passing - a day that she would have been at if she was still with us. But then she was with us. We shared memories of her, ate strawberries in her memory and had the best Chicken Curry Salad that I just know she would have loved. The day went by all too quickly.

So another day has been scheduled and will be here before we know it. I'm looking forward to it.

A "Triple D" Outing ...

2009-03-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

Gosh, has it really been 4 weeks since the outing??!??!? Well, anyway, 4 weeks ago we had a Triple D outing to see our friend Sylvia. Deanna and I met up at Debbie's and headed north for a fun filled day.

We started out the day with a bit of sun, but then the clouds moved in. Scattered showers were the prediction for the days weather, but that was not going to dampen our spirits at all.

Our first stop of the day ... In Between Stitches. Of course we had to stop there and check out their "new digs".

The shop was calling to us ...

The store is so fresh and new and they have it fixed up so nice with displays and quilts hanging. I always love how they have their displays.

After a nice visit with Leslie and Melissa, we headed to Starbucks (sorry, no photo - still trying to get the hang of this whole blogging thing) and then hit the Freeway.

Just a short drive north and we arrived.

We were all so happy to see Sylvia. We spent a bit of time visiting, seeing her quilt studio and then the four of us headed out for some more fun.

Lunch was first on our agenda and then we went to two nearby quilt shops. The first shop was Red Hen Quilt Shop (my photos were too blurred to post).

And then we made it into Beehive Quilts just a few minutes before closing.

Both shops were very nice! Didn't really buy anything though. Just a piece of Dandelion Girl for backing and a magazine.

We went back to Sylvia's for some more gab-gab-gabbing and then finally had to head on back to Debbie's. It was so good to see Sylvia and spend such a wonderful day together. We hope to do it again soon.

A Late Start into March ...

2009-03-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

Company has gone, my project obligation is completed and we have made the jump into Daylight Savings Time.

I am so hoping that things settle back into a more typical routine. Notice I didn't say normal ... after all, what is normal anyway.

It always makes me so happy when we change the clocks ahead one hour and it stays light later. Now if only the days were a little longer. I know they will be soon.

Another loss ...

2009-02-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

I have an Aunt here in town that has been suffering with Parkinson's for quite a number of years. She has been on a steady decline for about a year and watching her slowly go has been very hard. She went into a care facility about a year ago, care at home just became too hard for my uncle and cousin.

We got the call earlier this week that her days were few. She passed away quietly on Friday.

An end to my absence ...

2009-02-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

Well, as you have noticed I have been absent for a while. Things are finally getting back to normal, or at least as normal as they can be.

Since the middle of this month I have been keeping to my "going to do quilting daily" plan. I don't have anything of my own to share just yet. I have a friend's project that I am getting completed and then it's on to my own projects.

So, for now I don't have photos of anything to share, but will in the very near future.

In Memorium

2009-02-14T10:15:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, February 7, I attended the Memorial service for Marlene. It was a simple service just the way she would have wanted it. Those that spoke at the service included her father, brother, a few of her friends and myself.

Below is a photo of her quilt and what I said for my dear friend.

For 2009, Marlene and I had tentative plans for a couple of quilt related trips and plans to keep each other on track with a few of our quilt projects. I was looking forward to what this year would bring.

As quilters, we make quilts to share the joy of new unions, new arrivals, to show we care when those we love are ill and to help us heal when we loose those we treasure.

I organized this quilt to let Marlene know just how much she meant to all of her friends. I have no doubts she knew.
On January 12, I was able to show Marlene a picture of the completed quilt top. Her words … “It’s beautiful”.

And so I gift this quilt to Andrew. I know Marlene would want him to have it and to know just how much she was loved.

To many of us, Marlene was a quilter. But she was much more than that.

On her blog she described herself as:

“A 50 something emptynest quilter stitcher blogger crafter petsitter sister mother daughter grandmother supervisor friend ..... where ever life takes me”

She was indeed all that, but most of all to me she was a best friend.

Memorial service for Marlene

2009-01-29T09:47:00.000-08:00

A Memorial service for Marlene is scheduled for

Saturday, February 7 @ 2:00 p.m. at
Ouimet Brothers Funeral Chapel
4125 Clayton Road
Concord, CA 94521
925.682.4242

At this time, information for donations or contributions in Marlene’s memory is still pending.

Marlene 1/23/2009

2009-01-23T12:42:00.000-08:00

It is with much sadness that I inform you that Marlene passed away this morning around 11 a.m.

Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Road to California 2009

2009-01-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Where to begin …

I went to the Road to California Quilt Show last weekend. It was a weekend of very mixed emotions for me and Marlene was on my mind so very much. You see, she was supposed to be going as well. I missed her.

We had attended last year, along with our friend Debbie. The show was great and with the exception of a couple of things that happened to us away from the show we all had wonderful time. It was on our way home that we decided that we would be doing things very differently for the 2009 show. Plans were discussed during the drive and a fourth was added to our group. By late summer we had rooms reserved.

It was a weekend of mixed emotions. Debbie and I attended the show two group members down. Deanna’s work schedule had a significant change and so she was unable to make it. Marlene was in my thoughts so many times and I saw so many things that I knew she would absolutely love.

The show was great. I especially loved the display of antique/vintage quilts. We did a bit of shopping, but I really didn’t have very much on my list. I did pick up some civil war FQ bundles, some Hobbs batting and also picked up some thread for a couple of friends. I did avoid a couple of impulse purchases (whew). Marlene would have been pleased, especially since I ran amuk at the Long Beach Quilt Show.

Plans have already been made for 2010. We will have to see what this year has in store for us.

Marlene's quilt has been assembled

2009-01-14T12:02:00.001-08:00

First off let me thank all of you that made and sent blocks for Marlene's quilt. All of the blocks are beautiful, over 125 blocks not including the signature blocks. There are so many blocks that a smaller quilt, table topper or wall hanging size, is in the works also. I forgot to take a picture of the wonderful backing fabric that Dawna sent. It is a beautiful blue shirting fabric on a cream background.

The quilt top was assembled this past weekend starting on Friday, January 9. A small group of us gathered at our friend Pam's and spent a wonderful weekend sewing. Oh yes, there was laughing, eating, lots and lots of sewing and even a pirate song was sung. Bonnie arrived at Pam's on Wednesday night, I arrived on Thursday night and Holly arrived early Saturday morning.

The blocks were laid out with the sashings and block placements were worked out. Because of the size and the number of blocks, it was decided to make the secondary smaller quilt. The final borders were added mid-afternoon on Sunday and a quick photo was taken. Holly has taken it home and will be quilting it on her long arm. I can't wait to see what she does with it.

I went to see Marlene on Monday, January 12 and took a photo of the quilt top to hang in her room.

Here is the quilt top ...

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 12

2009-01-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

From Sue R. in Hilton Head Island, SC.

From Sally in Missouri.

Blocks for Marlene - a couple made by me

2009-01-13T20:18:00.001-08:00

These are a couple of the blocks that I made for Marlene's quilt. I forgot to take pictures of the others.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 9

2009-01-13T20:05:00.000-08:00

From Debbie S. in Livermore, CA.

From Dawna H. in Palmdale, CA.

There are actually 7 blocks above.

There are 2 of each of the top 2 blocks and 2 of the block on the bottom left.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 7

2009-01-13T20:02:00.001-08:00

From Patti H. in Canyon Lake, TX.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 6

2009-01-13T19:58:00.001-08:00

From Eileen S. in Florida.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 5

2009-01-13T19:52:00.000-08:00

From Rebecca L. in San Marcos, CA.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 3

2009-01-13T19:42:00.001-08:00

From Marie S. in Littleton, MA.

From Cheryl R. in Pennsylvania.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived January 2

2009-01-13T19:34:00.001-08:00

From Tone Yvonne K. in Oslo, Norway.

From Jeanne M. in Washington.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 31

2009-01-13T19:24:00.001-08:00

From Pam V. in Livermore, CA.

From Rhonda R. in Kent, WA.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 29

2009-01-13T19:17:00.001-08:00

From Mary F. in Asheboro, NC.

From Carol S. in Hubert, NC.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 26

2009-01-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

From Cindy J. in Clayton, MI.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 24

2009-01-13T17:08:00.001-08:00

From Stina B. in Sweden.

From Linda S. in Livermore, CA.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 23

2009-01-13T17:04:00.001-08:00

From Sharon G. in Kaneohe, HI.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 22

2009-01-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

Playing catch up again.

From Bobbie H. in Canon City, CO.

A nice comment from Mike ...

2009-01-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

For those of you that read my blog you might have read the recent comment from Marlene's brother. If you missed it, here is what he posted.

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

mike said:
To all that have shown concern for Marlene, Thank you. I am her brother , I live in AZ. I was able to see her last week and I have to say she looked better each day in which I visited. Her condition is still very critical, although she is able to communicate slightly,move her hands, arms, neck, & shoulders, she still has much work ahead of her. The goal is to get her strong enough and well enough to sustain a lung transplant. But before that can be done they have to find out what caused her condition in the first place. The road ahead is a very long one, one which there seems to be no end in site. Your continued prayers are greatly sought after and appreciated. It will take a true miracle to achieve the outcome that we all are hopeing for. Again thank you for all you are doing .
January 2, 2009 8:43 PM

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

I got to meet Mike and on that particular day with Marlene, she was doing a lot of sleeping. Mike shared some childhood memories of things he and Marlene did. It was a very nice visit and we got quite a few smiles from those stories.

Marlene has received many wonderful notes from so many people. She has truly touched the lives of people around the world - I am reminded of that every time an envelope arrives with blocks for her quilt.

Her nurses read her messages to her daily and family and friends reread them to her too. I know, because I have read them to her to let her know that we care so much about her and are praying for her.
Messages can be sent to her through the UCSF Medical Center website

to:
Marlene Maloney Ball
ICC Unit

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 19

2009-01-01T16:03:00.001-08:00

More blocks ...

From Laura B. in California

From Sheila C. and Linda N. in Denton, TX

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 17

2009-01-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

From Jayne C. in East Lyme, CT

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 16

2009-01-01T14:47:00.000-08:00

I know I am not the best at photography - just know that all of the blocks are gorgeous.

From Kathy D. in Portland, OR

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 15

2009-01-01T14:26:00.000-08:00

I noticed after taking these two sets of pictures that I must have been standing off center.

From Lori D. in Gibbsboro, NJ
From Peggy M. in Milford, CT

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 13

2009-01-01T12:59:00.001-08:00

Okay ... time to start playing catch up and get caught up on the blocks that have been received for Marlene's quilt.

From Sylvia K. in Woodland, CA

From Pam M. in Atascadero, CA

From Joanne S. in Missouri

Update on Marlene

2008-12-15T11:49:00.000-08:00

I went to visit Marlene on Sunday. They have backed off on her medication so that her physical movements can be assessed. She still seemed "fuzzy" from the medication, but the priceless moment for me was when she saw me when I entered her room and smiled. She cannot communicate verbally because of the trach tube. I spent quite a bit of time with her and read her the cards sent to her through me and also read her the notes that she has received at the hospital and just talked to her in general about things that we have done together, pets, family, friends, etc.

Her condition still remains critical.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived December 10

2008-12-10T17:44:00.000-08:00

These blocks arrived today ...

From Barbara R. in Southern California.

From Karen E. in Northern California.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived on December 8

2008-12-10T17:29:00.000-08:00

More beautiful blocks have arrived.

From Antonija M. in Wisconsin.

From May S. in New Jersey.

From Patricia P. in Wisconsin.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived on December 6

2008-12-07T17:14:00.001-08:00

Ruthie's block arrived on Saturday.

I'm all caught up on block arrivals for now. I'm sorry for the delay in getting photos posted.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived on December 5

2008-12-07T17:09:00.001-08:00

These blocks arrived on Friday from Deanna in Fremont, CA.

Blocks for Marlene - arrived on December 4

2008-12-07T16:26:00.000-08:00

Blocks have continued to arrive for Marlene's quilt. These blocks arrived on Thursday ...

From Holly.

From PatinAtlanta.

From Barbara.

Update on Marlene ...

2008-12-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

As you have read, Marlene is very ill and has been in intensive care in serious condition. She has been been on a ventilator and her status has remained unchanged. She is on life-support and in a coma.

Her condition has now taken a significant turn for the worse and the prognosis is not encouraging. Please keep her in your prayers.

The Call continues ...

2008-12-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

Some beautiful blocks arrived on Monday for Marlene.

As many have you have heard, Marlene is very ill. Her condition is still serious.

I have had an overwhelming response from those wanting to contribute blocks. Honestly, that doesn't surprise me at all knowing Marlene. She is such a dear person and a wonderful friend. Here are the pictures of what has arrived so far. On left - blocks from Chookyblue, Jeanne and Quilterbee (Denise).
On right - blocks from Alex Anderson.

I am organizing a quilt for Mar. I know the holidays are a very busy time for us all, so for those that are able to participate and send blocks ...

THE DEADLINE TO RECEIVE BLOCKS WILL BE DECEMBER 31, 2008.

The block pattern will be a 6" Finished Sawtooth Star (6½" unfinished) to be done in Civil War Reproduction fabrics with Shirtings or Muslin for the background. Use only 2 fabrics in the block - the Civil War print for the star center and star points and the Shirting or muslin for the background.

Do Not sign the blocks, but send a signed piece of muslin. The plan is to piece them in the backing.

If you would like to contribute a block or two, please email me and I will let you know where they should be mailed.

A Call to Arms ...

2008-11-24T23:44:00.000-08:00

or at least sewing machines.

As some of you have heard, my dear and close friend Marlene of Mar's Pincushion Diaries is very ill and in the hospital.

I am organizing a quilt for Mar. I know the holidays are a very busy time for us all, so for those that are able to participate and send blocks ...

THE DEADLINE TO RECEIVE BLOCKS WILL BE DECEMBER 31, 2008.

The block pattern will be a 6" Finished Sawtooth Star (6½" unfinished) to be done in Civil War Reproduction fabrics with Shirtings or Muslin for the background. Use only 2 fabrics in the block - the Civil War print for the star center and star points and the Shirting or muslin for the background.

Do Not sign the blocks, but send a signed piece of muslin. The plan is to piece them in the backing.

If you would like to contribute a block or two, please email me and I will let you know where they should be mailed.

Pacific International Quilt Festival

2008-11-09T01:59:00.000-08:00

Last month I went to Pacific International Quilt Festival. I actually went on two days, Thursday and Saturday. Marlene and I met up on Thursday and spent a wonderful day at the show. On Saturday I met up with Holly and I had another great day. I am always amazed at things I missed the day before. I did a small bit of shopping on both days, but haven't taken any pictures of my treasures.
The vendors were wonderful again as usual. We did take notice that there were some new vendors this year and also noticed that a couple from past years were not there. Not sure if it was a sign of the economy or that maybe they were vending elsewhere. Hoping it was the latter.

Once again the quilts were gorgeous. The quilt photos below were four of my favorites. As usually it was a very wonderful and inspiring show.

I'm already looking forward to next year. How many days til then ... (sigh)

About my Country Getaway ...

2008-10-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

Darlene asked me about my weekend getaway so here goes ...

I was staying at a house in the country, just me and the dogs. It was so very peaceful out there. No traffic noise, no neighbors ... well there are neighbors across the creek, but they were far enough away that it was like not having neighbors. The house is decorated with quilts all around. They were beautiful and inspiring.

I took a hand sewing project and also a couple of machine piecing projects, along with my machine. I usually over estimate and take way too many projects to do, but at least I have a variety on hand to choose from, right?

I love waking up early in the country. The air seems so very still. And crisp. On one morning I could hear some resident turkeys making their way down along the creek. And the deer ... I could always count on seeing them very close every morning and evening. They seem very comfortable with me outside with the dogs. I kept the dogs close by me and didn't draw attention to the deer. It was so very cool, because the deer would check us out, but wouldn't take off. It was also amazing how close they were too when we were outside - had to be maybe 100 yards or so.

I stuck to hand applique. I was finishing up some my Sock blocks. I was in a block swap with some other ladies and had those blocks completed and turned in, but had to finish mine and Marlene's. Ruthie already has her Lost Sock top put together.

So my days were spent in the calming country air outside with the dogs and also inside working on my applique. The weather was gorgeous during the day with wonderfully cool country nights.

Country Getaway ... last day (sigh)

2008-10-13T09:30:00.001-07:00

Well, today is the last day of my Country Getaway. The time has passed all too quickly. It has been so nice out here though and I hate to see it end. The peace and quiet sure does give one time to think and reflect on recent happenings, let them go and move forward.

I have to go get myself busy now. I don't leave until this evening and I have a lot more sewing I want to get done before I have to load up the car and head back to "civilization".

Hope all of you had a chance to get some piecing and/or quilting done.

Weekend Getaway ...

2008-10-11T08:30:00.000-07:00

So I have this country weekend quilt getaway goin' on here. It is so peaceful and quiet. I just love it! The deer have been around very close to my front door and they don't even seem scared of people. It is so awesome! There is a little creek just down the hill and at night all you can hear are the crickets and frogs.

My sewing starts today. I have the coffee brewing and my project for today is all set to go.

Sorry I won't be able to post pictures of anything until after I get back home, as I am using a computer that is here at my getaway place and isn't mine.

I was thinking last night about all of the quilt related things that are set to happen between now and the start of the holidays. The very next happening coming up (after this weekend) is the Pacific International Quilt Festival in Santa Clara. Plans have already been made and I will be meeting up with friends at the show.

The coffee pot just beeped that it was finished brewing. Coffee is calling.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and are able to work on your quilt projects.

Catching up on last weekend ...

2008-09-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

Let me see ... where to start ...

Well, for me the morning started early. Load the car, drop the pup off at her Grandmother's and then hit the road to Holly's. Marlene was loading up and heading from the other direction.

Holly was in her studio busy organizing her stash. She had completed the quilting on our quilts and had them hanging for us to see as we walked in. Mine is on the right.

We didn't realize it until later, but it dawned on us later that we were inadvertant participants in Judy's Quiltathon weekend.

Mar was busy working on a project with greens that she needed to get finished.

I was busy working on some red blocks that I had to get finished.

And Holly was busy on a couple of projects. She worked on the border for a quilt and then chose a binding for a quilt top that she had finished quilting. I have looked through all my pics. I thought for sure I had a pic the quilt she was doing the binding for, but I guess I didn't get one.

We had so much fun! We ate, we laughed, we sewed.

I brought a vegetable pasta salad, Mar brought tequila-lime chicken (yum) and Holly fixed garlic bread and some yummy brownies. Weekends quilting with friends are the best!

After packing up and saying goodbye to Holly and Mar, I parted company with my Lost Socks.

These are part of a Lost Sock block swap I am in. I can't wait for the other Lost Socks to come home.

Note: Edited to add pictures

So ... the weekend approaches ...

2008-09-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

... and I am so looking forward to it.

I haven't had very much to blog about the past couple of weeks. It has mainly been work, work, work. Oh, and I have been busy finishing up some Obligation blocks.

But the weekend is almost here. Another sewing weekend has been planned with friends and that can only mean one thing ... FUN FUN FUN. I have started to gather my things, don't want to forget anything. LOL

Anyway, it's early and I didn't feel like breaking out my camera, so there aren't any block pics just yet. Have to grab a cup of coffee and get ready for today. But check back, I'll get something posted a bit later.

Thanks for stopping by.

Last Weekend Continued

2008-08-31T08:05:00.000-07:00

So, getting back to last weekend Quilt Frenzy ...

Every morning and evening we saw several deer families. One doe had a single fawn and the others had twins. Very cute and not very skiddish at all.

Holly made and quilted this cute little neutrals quilt.

And she also found up and quilted this beauty.

Pam chose fabrics from her stash for these small socks. She had her mini group make them for her group project.

Holly was busy making these cute Halloween blocks. This quilt is going to be gorgeous.

Mar gave a tutorial on those cute little gift bags that she brought. And Pam gave a tutorial on a project bag that she has made that uses clear vinyl. Mar made one of those and was also busy working on her Potato Bags.

We also got to see Mar's Prairie Paisley quilt and the picture on her blog does not do it justice folks. That quilt is beautiful!

I was busy working on my socks (like Pam's above) for a sock swap that I am in.

We had so much fun. I'm looking forward to doing it again. Break out the calendars girls ... we gotta do that again!

Celebrations

2008-08-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

If you haven't stopped by Mar's blog recently, be sure to head on over there and check out the celebration. It's her Blogoversary and she is having a giveaway.

Mar - it's been so much fun reading your blog and seeing all of your wonderful projects this past year. I look forward to many, many more blog entries.

Starting the weekend

2008-08-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

Wow, so much to post ... where to start ...

Hi's and hugs all around upon arrival and then into the "hive" to start the fun.

We were welcomed in ...

and then ...

What a treat to be able to have this view of fabric all day while working on projects.

Marlene brought the cutest little gift bags for everyone. How sweet was that!

We started with some Show and Tell. And then we got right into setting up our sewing stations. We had a Friday afternoon jumpstart to the weekend and a full day and a half to follow.

I'll have to continue this later. Blogger is being a bit resistant to uploading pictures at the moment.

Weekends - What can I say ...

2008-08-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love weekends? I do. They are such are welcomed change to the ho-hum work week. This weekend is no exception. I get to spend it with friends ... quilting, of course! My friends Mar and Holly are coming down to get together with Pam and me for a Quilt Frenzy. I guess a frenzy is good when it comes to quilting.

Sorry I don't have pics to post just yet. This past week got away from me. What can I say ...

Hope all of you can spend time quilting with friends this weekend.

A Busy Weekend

2008-08-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

It's a busy weekend ahead for me. I have been working on some applique blocks for an online group swap that I am in. The deadline is near - so I'm stitching my little fingers off.

Today I am going to help a neighbor, Carol, cut out a quilt. She is fairly new to quilting and hasn't really done much rotary cutting. And then it is back to applique for the rest of the weekend.

I also have to pick up some fresh batteries for my camera and then I will be able to post some more pics.

Hope you all have a fun, quilt filled weekend.

A Quilt For Beatrice

2008-08-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

So, my brother called a while back to see if I had a quilt that would be suitable for a baby. No - nothing for babies. We have some friends in England that were new grandparents. So, I told him I would see what I could come up with.

I had some fat quarters that I had won as a door prize at a guild meeting that I thought would work. Hmmmmm

So I added a couple of other pieces and came up with this grouping of fabrics.

This is the quilt prior to quilting. The picture was taken on a dark, rainy day. With the lights and the camera flash the colors got a bit washed out. Oh well. I found a green on white Beatrix Potter toile that I thought would be spot on for a British babe. My friend Holly quilted it using a Baptist Fan pattern and it turned out perfect. I didn't take any pictures after it was completed and now I so wish I had. I needed to get it sent off quickly so that it could get to Beatrice Elizabeth in Colchester, England. Beatrice, Mum and Grandmum all love it.

An excerpt from an email from her mum reads:
"It is stunning and I know it will be something that she will enjoy and treasure. The skill of crafting a quilt is a rare and amazing phenomenon in the U.K. Your stiches leave me in awe and the Beatrix Potter material is very apt. Beatrice is certainly a very lucky girl. Again thank you for the precious gift that I know she will love for all her years."

Long Beach International Quilt Festival

2008-08-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

Early on July 25th I headed out for the show in Long Beach. The drive was good, the traffic wasn't bad either. As I drove past the LB Convention Center, I was amazed at the line of quilters waiting to get into the show. It was already past 10:30, but the line extended from the front doors all the way over the pedestrian crossing the spans the multi-lane road. I went and checked into my hotel, left the car and walked to the show.

It almost seemed like the Convention Center had no clue what to expect. I heard from some reliable sources that the Quilts, Inc people kept trying to prepare them for us quilters, but kept getting told that they (the Convention Center) knew how to deal with crowds. Clearly they didn't. On Saturday they ran out of food. People stood in line for an hour and a half waiting to get something. I talked to a couple of ladies during my lunch break (no standing in that line for me) that had driven around for over an hour just to find a place to park. I was glad that I walked. Plus it seemed foolish for me to since I was staying so close.

The show was so much fun. And the vendors ... OH MY!! Friday was vendor day for me. Saturday was for viewing the quilts.

I saw so many people that I know too. I almost did as much visiting as I did shopping. LOL

The quilts on display were interesting. Seems I didn't need all of Saturday for viewing them. They were, for the most part, all Art Quilts. And, as I mentioned in my first entry, Art Quilts are not my forte. I ended up spending just half of Saturday viewing the quilts and then it was back to ... you guessed it ... the vendors.

In all it was a great weekend. And I will be back next year, curious to see what Quilts, Inc has in store for the 2009 show.

Guild President's Quilt

2008-08-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to organize and work on the quilt for our guilds outgoing President a couple of years ago. It was a fun project to work on, but at the same time I was nervous. Why nervous you ask? Well, making a quilt for myself is one thing, but making one for someone else is an entirely different matter. Sure, she knew the quilt would be coming because any guild President that serves 2 years gets a quilt from the guild. The tricky part is what fabrics to use and what pattern or design. This ended up being fairly easy. I had a general idea of her fabric preference and knew she likes traditional patterns. I selected a pattern from a BH&G Quilt Sampler and used 30's reproduction fabrics (the apron and feed sack styles and none of the "cutesie" prints). She loves this quilt! whew

A Weekend Quilting with Friends ...

2008-08-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

I got a call from my friend Pam. Seems some of the Sacramento gals were coming down for a mini Retreat at Pam's new studio. How could I possibly turn down an invitation like that! So I quickly packed my things on Friday after work and headed off to quilting bliss.

The weekend was so much fun! Everything was perfect, well almost everything. It did get a bit hot during the day on Saturday, but that did not slow us down in the least. We all had a very productive weekend. And did I mention that the food was fantastic? It was a perfect weekend.

I'm a Tour de France girl ...

2008-07-31T17:27:00.001-07:00

I know ... you're asking what does the Tour de France have to do with quilting. Well, not much really, but let me explain. I really enjoy the Tour and have been watching it for a number of years now. And yes, I get up at those very early pre-dawn hours (West Coast time) to watch it.

Well, Quilts Inc. decided to put on a quilt show in Long Beach this year. Yea for the west coast. I decided to go to the Long Beach International Quilt Festival (more about that later) and in doing so I would be giving up the final 3 days of the Tour. I was okay with that. So while in Long Beach I just figured that I would find out the results on ESPN or some other sporting news. I was pleasantly surprised to find the Versus network while watching TV and relaxing in my room after spending the day at the quilt show. How could I ask for more.

So here I go ...

2008-07-30T03:26:00.000-07:00

I have finally decided to start my own quilting blog. I have read a few of the quilt blogs out there and have thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the beautiful quilts so many of you have created. Even though my quilting journey actually started quite a few years ago, for blogging purposes I will just pick it up from here and touch on events in the past as they become relevant. As far as my quilt preferences go ... I prefer applique and traditional pieced quilts over art quilts. I admire those that can produce art quilts, but they are just not my forte.

So, let this be a second beginning in my quilting journey.