tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33184666945664855832024-03-21T01:45:31.282-06:00My Life In FabricSandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-25295278022576239422017-06-29T10:23:00.000-06:002017-06-29T19:03:09.098-06:00Happy Birthday, CanadaMy Sesquicentennial Quilt, otherwise known as Canada 150, is finished. Actually it was finished a week ago, allowing me plenty of time to show it to my kids and grandkids and to take a few pictures.<br />
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Joanne Kerton of Canuck Quilter Designs gets all the credit for the beautiful pattern and easy to follow instructions. I added fabric and sewed. The quilting is mostly stitch-in-the-ditch with some outline quilting and a few stars thrown in.<br />
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The border fabric is full of tiny white stars. They bring to mind the fact that day after day 36 million-plus Canadians work and play, laugh and cry, love each other and raise families, all under the same bright stars. Something we all have in common. We are not perfect, far from it, but then neither is my quilt.<br />
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Lulu the Sheltie is my very unwilling model in some of the pictures. You will need to look closely, though, to see the pained look on her face!<br />
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Saturday, July 1st is Canada's 150th birthday. Happy Birthday, Canada!<br />
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Sandy<br />
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Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-33483790610254577312017-05-02T13:55:00.000-06:002017-05-02T15:06:39.875-06:00Following "Love's" lead and my Sesquicentennial quilt projectWay back on March 14th, "Love" of I Just Love Quilts posted a photo of a great looking block she had made. She had been inspired to join a new block of the week, Moda Block Heads, after seeing Ruth of Country Log Cabin's first block. Long story short, I decided to sew along as well. I sailed through the first three blocks and then hit a roadblock -- no pun intended. Appliqué! I have done a little appliqué, enough to know that I don't do it well. So, my block four Bee Skep is just a little wonky but I was able to use some fairly old bee fabric so I am okay with it. More appliqué for blocks six and seven! I decided to switch the appliqué in block six for a snowball block, and made a very simple basket for block seven. I guess I will end up going my own way with these blocks!<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">My Sesquicentennial Quilt project started with an amazing pattern from Joanne at Canuck Quilter Designs. My fabrics are very different from the fabrics Joanne used for her quilt, and I was a little concerned that paisley and polkadots might not be right for my maple leaves, but I love them. I am about to put this quilt top together, and I can't wait to see how it turns out. Joanne is the best pattern writer, by the way.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I hope to complete this quilt before July 1, the 150th anniversary of Canada's confederation. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Sandy</span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-30403507691489761932016-12-13T10:55:00.003-07:002016-12-13T11:16:13.330-07:00Snow Dreams Tree SkirtI just love my new tree skirt. The pattern is from Joanne Kerton at Canuck Quilter Designs. Paper-pieced snowflakes, of course!<br />
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The colours are not Christmasy, but they co-ordinate with the other colours in the room, including my favourite Christmas throw.</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">We have decorated for the holidays a little early this year. I am having knee replacement surgery this Friday, and want to be able to come home after surgery to a pretty house. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I love my Jim Shore Santas and snowmen. Several of my pretty, and somewhat fragile, ornaments have perished over the years. At least these guys are sturdy. The Dutch and Scottish Santas are for my two grandpas, and of course the Canadian Santa is for me.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I still have some Christmas baking to do, as well as the wrapping of gifts. I should definitely get busy!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"> Merry Christmas, everyone.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Sandy</span></div>
Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-7870938509395422642014-12-23T15:48:00.001-07:002015-11-05T07:46:27.960-07:00Snowflakes on the tableIt has been a long while since I sat in front of the computer, desperately trying to think of something to write. Here I go.<br />
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I decided to write today so I could tell you about the beautiful snowflake patterns that Joanne of Canuck Quilter offered this past fall as part of her Snowalong. Beautiful "paper-pieced" snowflake patterns. I am a lover of paper piecing, and jumped at the chance to make some snowflakes. Without further ado, here are my snowflakes.<br />
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Table runner number one<br />
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Table runner number two</div>
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This one is a Christmas gift.</div>
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I know, the photos are not the best. Since I no longer blog, I have not bothered much with taking pictures. The instructions were easy to follow and the pattern pieces fit together so very nicely. </div>
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Table runner number three.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjykWcti4ifSWjo5PHfdR8S0k2dFYWDVDS4JLBzGqkyK0cmzMmSiqNJ6jJYuqg6yAeBBoLqgHlu6d-NOeom0BwTFiZd8OWrdii0FccLwj1OYBuR2llCC18MQLS2GBc0Fw3m1_L5AyoSk/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjykWcti4ifSWjo5PHfdR8S0k2dFYWDVDS4JLBzGqkyK0cmzMmSiqNJ6jJYuqg6yAeBBoLqgHlu6d-NOeom0BwTFiZd8OWrdii0FccLwj1OYBuR2llCC18MQLS2GBc0Fw3m1_L5AyoSk/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Geese Across the Table</div>
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This is another pattern from the very talented Canuck Quilter. I made this runner for my mom's September birthday. It is a little wider and a little shorter than the original pattern. Mom loved it.</div>
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My computer skills are very rusty. If I don't mess up in the next minute or two, this might actually become a real blog post. Fingers crossed!</div>
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Merry Christmas everyone.</div>
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Sandy</div>
Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-76562201723221682912011-08-21T10:50:00.006-06:002012-08-13T16:09:53.577-06:00Decisions, decisions, and doing what I loveOur summer is winding down here in southern Alberta. With any luck, we will still enjoy some warm weather -- to make up for our very cool spring and early summer -- but fall is definitely in the air.<br />
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Some of you might know that I love making mini quilts. I am a big fan of the little quilts of Ann Hermes, and decided recently to make a little quilt based on one of Ann's called <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #134f5c;">Pastel Triangles</span>. My inspiration can be found here: <br />
<a href="http://www.annhermesquilts.com/QuiltStore.html">http://www.annhermesquilts.com/QuiltStore.html</a><br />
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I could never do what Ann does. I have trouble cutting into new fabric. I can't imagine cutting into precious antique fabric!<br />
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Here is my version of Ann's little quilt. Pink and green is one of my favourite combinations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0eVoEiphUdcBfi4qiOzcqdk4Ht1s6YJWjuf2ErcnMRbUBLRhN5Ub3IB42xLr3lQCkRYI7OL_uGhys8r4RLYhxc_Dr-rCoZo49vzJHGMdbVX_p0sMbSzOMPedzlNYlm8TSPnPpY3NwDk/s1600/IMG_4169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0eVoEiphUdcBfi4qiOzcqdk4Ht1s6YJWjuf2ErcnMRbUBLRhN5Ub3IB42xLr3lQCkRYI7OL_uGhys8r4RLYhxc_Dr-rCoZo49vzJHGMdbVX_p0sMbSzOMPedzlNYlm8TSPnPpY3NwDk/s200/IMG_4169.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGl50ZXbPvPzEvkoL2Tunq0-rg-pLDwm7Mp5bEsHpBetIwT5YXxyyZBbpeEnBxS8IFcNrMVIyds9NMYo_4kfaMJHfH7fyB622G9cZynywhL-kWnWKorYcvh6j98qbRu8PcjwOyNS5YdOM/s1600/IMG_4166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGl50ZXbPvPzEvkoL2Tunq0-rg-pLDwm7Mp5bEsHpBetIwT5YXxyyZBbpeEnBxS8IFcNrMVIyds9NMYo_4kfaMJHfH7fyB622G9cZynywhL-kWnWKorYcvh6j98qbRu8PcjwOyNS5YdOM/s200/IMG_4166.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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I have decided that this post will be my last. While you have all been welcoming and friendly, and generous with your comments, I am not an original member of your group. I enjoy writing about what I do, but I enjoy the 'doing' even more. So, I will continue to do what I love -- sewing, quilting, counted cross stitch, and even a little knitting.<br />
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Of course, I will also continue to follow all of your blogs. I will once again be lurking in the background, much as I did during the APQ days. While I was much too 'shy' in those days to ever leave a comment ("Love" and I did exchange a few messages) I hope that this time around I will feel more comfortable.<br />
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Thank you "Love" for your friendship. Your encouragement meant a lot to me.<br />
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Now, I really do need to get back to my sewing room. There are a lot of projects waiting for me!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-49986309022364541492011-08-11T12:55:00.002-06:002011-08-11T17:15:19.960-06:00I Love ColeusI love Coleus! One of the best things about spring is that first visit to the garden centre, and the opportunity to see all of the gorgeous new Coleus plants. Imagine how thrilled I was to read "Love's" most recent post about her efforts to save her beautiful Sun Coleus: <a href="http://ijustlovequilts.blogspot.com/2011/08/another-week-of-over-100-degree-weather.html">http://ijustlovequilts.blogspot.com/2011/08/another-week-of-over-100-degree-weather.html</a><br />
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My front yard faces north, and over the years I have planted lots of different annuals. Begonias, Impatiens, and Coleus are the ones I can usually count on to do well. Here is a picture from last year. Coleus and non-stop Begonias. The Coleus very nearly took over the pot.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZLvL_f7RyQcHfwVXQWrtv-RM8IdAOa0KG_wkek3EHucZkh2WR9TACMXQA2EZ3XOfC7ip-fAn-tYaAD2Kn71evccyT2qV2f9bVDC7o9nTfBHsmdOBEQHeRBLG7RsjGaq4ulcoSILjBmw/s1600/IMG_3526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZLvL_f7RyQcHfwVXQWrtv-RM8IdAOa0KG_wkek3EHucZkh2WR9TACMXQA2EZ3XOfC7ip-fAn-tYaAD2Kn71evccyT2qV2f9bVDC7o9nTfBHsmdOBEQHeRBLG7RsjGaq4ulcoSILjBmw/s320/IMG_3526.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Here is this year's version. The Coleus are missing! Eight different Coleus plants (two at a time) were planted in the pot. None lived more than a few days thanks to our extremely cool spring. (Cold overnight lows, cool daytime highs, and a nasty north wind.) The Begonias were doing fairly well until last week, when three severe hailstorms nearly decimated the plants. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> Last year's Impatiens did well with very little sun. This year's pot is struggling.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I have not planted a garden in years, but on one of my visits to the garden centre in mid June I decided to buy a couple of tomato plants. They are thriving! If the first frost holds off until the end of September, we might get to enjoy some of these little beauties. They are still pretty small. The Blanket Flowers (they once blanketed the prairies) usually take over this bit of garden.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I don't have much of a green thumb, but that doesn't stop me from trying. Now, it's back to my sewing room!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Sandy</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-27106697817483168682011-08-03T09:15:00.001-06:002011-08-03T14:18:25.272-06:00Meet Bindbara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokI2Tf_fJNnLbsws749djJLEthTgwMs65D-9xKTVMOM6w_SLS2m7qBi082b1sozwfqRH35QZPL73EW_hRVsWaZlQWMCrf7purIxkf54eOUFReERqmrcqTe6EWcgTLQtD-T2e58MgD-xc/s1600/IMG_4140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokI2Tf_fJNnLbsws749djJLEthTgwMs65D-9xKTVMOM6w_SLS2m7qBi082b1sozwfqRH35QZPL73EW_hRVsWaZlQWMCrf7purIxkf54eOUFReERqmrcqTe6EWcgTLQtD-T2e58MgD-xc/s400/IMG_4140.JPG" width="343" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Meet Bindbara, my fairy quilt godmother. She loves hot pink lipstick and purple eyeshadow, and is a product of the Not-So-Mystery Block #61 at Paper Panache, found here: <a href="http://www.paperpanache.com/index.htm">http://www.paperpanache.com/index.htm</a><br />
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Bindbara and I are not alike, although I once had a pair of reading/sewing glasses with purplish frames. She was a lot of fun to make, and now hangs in my sewing room. (Yes, she was paper pieced, and yes, she came with her name.)<br />
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We have finally had a bit of summer-ish weather. Nothing over 29 degrees Celsius (about 84 degrees Fahrenheit), and that was only for a day, but outdoor activities have kept me out of my sewing room (for the most part). Needless to say, progress on the retirement quilt for my brother has been slow.<br />
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I hope everyone is enjoying their summer!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-25487968410647115502011-06-20T15:50:00.004-06:002011-06-22T11:55:52.708-06:00Chenille Quilts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczw1fXo37eigUV9zY9Dfd39NVlzQ8AkQy12tNCLGduYab4BK3XsAQOa_k-DJm-W1-2jg3jZJFMOmG96AuLYVDpF2SW3lOi5-c9cEHt6ORNKey5VRgAGh5KEpAoor90Hh4Rx9xSZldCcI/s1600/IMG_4118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczw1fXo37eigUV9zY9Dfd39NVlzQ8AkQy12tNCLGduYab4BK3XsAQOa_k-DJm-W1-2jg3jZJFMOmG96AuLYVDpF2SW3lOi5-c9cEHt6ORNKey5VRgAGh5KEpAoor90Hh4Rx9xSZldCcI/s200/IMG_4118.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Have any of you ever made a 'Chenille Quilt', like the ones made popular by Fons & Porter (and others)? My first chenille throw was made shortly after the January/February 2005 issue of 'Love of Quilting' came out. I made it in a weekend, and had so much fun that over the next year or so I made a few more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCncPOHK9a6KM1KI4e8yDvXfwIMajywnqP6paKUn0_i-L3g24L91lo24e43G9-4ChDgIBeLLRcR3hLC4wgLUh52h8U7kEdiT2CTmuCPsVW1O9KT7cguBXo1tsIMw1yATWZbbom4O0s8i8/s1600/IMG_4102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCncPOHK9a6KM1KI4e8yDvXfwIMajywnqP6paKUn0_i-L3g24L91lo24e43G9-4ChDgIBeLLRcR3hLC4wgLUh52h8U7kEdiT2CTmuCPsVW1O9KT7cguBXo1tsIMw1yATWZbbom4O0s8i8/s200/IMG_4102.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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This was my first effort. It has four layers of flannelette, so it is somewhat heavy.<br />
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I made three more for Christmas gifts that year. My mom's is often draped over a chair. My brother uses his as a bedspread (sadly no picture), and the third belonged to a brother who passed away in November 2009. I brought that one home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheTBNMYw5gUu6dXRtqvo3WtNzpWyWTWEk6iGzgBZ2M0oHN81Y5BUsPyXqUbDQAvioYuVsjZhHoHQR4JbTOCY3p6Xb2BjyYTahAWz5RrYO0Jys-qRYnmmj1DzicU5e2eYSZpm5bs1qoYOQ/s1600/IMG_4105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheTBNMYw5gUu6dXRtqvo3WtNzpWyWTWEk6iGzgBZ2M0oHN81Y5BUsPyXqUbDQAvioYuVsjZhHoHQR4JbTOCY3p6Xb2BjyYTahAWz5RrYO0Jys-qRYnmmj1DzicU5e2eYSZpm5bs1qoYOQ/s200/IMG_4105.JPG" width="192" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmqKFamJBdeNj71mkhciDBmiUVvJ4U432HKzy8rT7r5Uf3bKFXz9SGFohvh7yZPfI4Fjf0krQLuFrd9BHUGrin4jDT4-8fSGz9cdNGY6Dmd8nHrNkcC2_G5ioiZWQJfubdXrmKKw_DwQ/s1600/IMG_4100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnmqKFamJBdeNj71mkhciDBmiUVvJ4U432HKzy8rT7r5Uf3bKFXz9SGFohvh7yZPfI4Fjf0krQLuFrd9BHUGrin4jDT4-8fSGz9cdNGY6Dmd8nHrNkcC2_G5ioiZWQJfubdXrmKKw_DwQ/s200/IMG_4100.JPG" width="200" /></a>I have made a few more, as well. This one was made from Christmas fabric a few years ago.<br />
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I even made chenille baby quilts for my first two grandchildren.<br />
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Now, I know these are not real quilts, at least not the kind that have beautiful pieced blocks and lots of lovely quilting. They were fun to make, though!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-36123404324164344532011-06-08T10:30:00.006-06:002011-06-08T18:20:47.392-06:00A new projectIt has taken a while, much longer than I had thought, but I have finally started work on my new project. I was not totally convinced that I had made the right colour choices, so I made a couple of blocks the other day. I think I like it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFi4odSQj6LD5LaXQvRGR9E2cZ6JxIcZmJjw1j1JrYcFvS9TXbc_OuG7O8fXEwgzhSKFfvswgFWR_kbcpzTWZH4cnONXBObOyw9IMON4WeArXaOuxig3mqL3BTj0lJbuwZ4qw7HB0YUPU/s1600/IMG_4087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFi4odSQj6LD5LaXQvRGR9E2cZ6JxIcZmJjw1j1JrYcFvS9TXbc_OuG7O8fXEwgzhSKFfvswgFWR_kbcpzTWZH4cnONXBObOyw9IMON4WeArXaOuxig3mqL3BTj0lJbuwZ4qw7HB0YUPU/s320/IMG_4087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1exz0i1NkJh0gY-pvL2wmnqiIyidLZJbvsmfS9NhAbzqoohN6k4XjVvOh-E5zhXXZ4z0n-74QorEpWXhnbksJp6LcTXeI42DXyowLtipnOmAMd8MWX-IH5GjFQxaUSau9by5ggYytISA/s1600/IMG_4088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1exz0i1NkJh0gY-pvL2wmnqiIyidLZJbvsmfS9NhAbzqoohN6k4XjVvOh-E5zhXXZ4z0n-74QorEpWXhnbksJp6LcTXeI42DXyowLtipnOmAMd8MWX-IH5GjFQxaUSau9by5ggYytISA/s320/IMG_4088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
It is a very simple pattern from the current issue of 'Simple Quilts & Sewing' magazine. This is to be a gift for my brother, who has decided to take early retirement. I learned last Christmas that his current bedspread is a throw I made almost six years ago. I think he deserves a real quilt!<br />
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There has been a lot of non-sewing activity here lately. There have been soccer games to attend (our two older grandchildren both play), as well as a dance recital. Grandma has also been doing lots of babysitting. Grandpa signed up the two older kids for golf lessons (the under six program), so when he is not busy golfing he can check on their progress. There is lots of gardening to do, as well. I have lost a few plants to our chilly overnight lows. At least the garden centre is close!<br />
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I love reading about all of your beautiful new projects. They really inspire me!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-87700109450661985392011-05-29T11:45:00.004-06:002011-05-29T14:45:18.659-06:00Our anniversary road trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1oUUfyA0vMq44WFyqYvuRYyLm71ePGE1P_G0HSs4TMedbzELd4ro8bFQ9EIRX0AI72uvR2Vy7JV6I2WjoO9fLMZCYEUmDW9t2pE_lPIGyzfKX1F72_JlFvnlWkC1UH3S1a0QvnDVjUs/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>My husband and I celebrated our 40th anniversary on May 22 and decided that a road trip was in order. Last weekend, we drove north to drop the dogs off with my mom, and then headed for the mountains. Our first stop was Jasper National Park. Parks Canada is celebrating this year, as well. It is their 100th birthday.<br />
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The view from our balcony.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1oUUfyA0vMq44WFyqYvuRYyLm71ePGE1P_G0HSs4TMedbzELd4ro8bFQ9EIRX0AI72uvR2Vy7JV6I2WjoO9fLMZCYEUmDW9t2pE_lPIGyzfKX1F72_JlFvnlWkC1UH3S1a0QvnDVjUs/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1oUUfyA0vMq44WFyqYvuRYyLm71ePGE1P_G0HSs4TMedbzELd4ro8bFQ9EIRX0AI72uvR2Vy7JV6I2WjoO9fLMZCYEUmDW9t2pE_lPIGyzfKX1F72_JlFvnlWkC1UH3S1a0QvnDVjUs/s320/IMG_4030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div> This picture was taken just before sunset at Pyramid Lake. <br />
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</div>The next morning (our anniversary) we rode the Jasper Sky Tram. There was still a lot of snow at the summit.<br />
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Next came a trip to Sunwapta Falls. What an amazing place.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxvWqQ4FBNoNyks63cGe8LMi0-jDRz5aKKPDNInRgzWEQRPuCuGsB5nZWsJqswCEGeT-hWoRuMhPUDvG_Zf1096VYWXlNHoK7Tf8HsF7xPfPn-wlSBhekJ8lQSH6_ykEx5x-qtwstIss/s1600/IMG_4048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglxvWqQ4FBNoNyks63cGe8LMi0-jDRz5aKKPDNInRgzWEQRPuCuGsB5nZWsJqswCEGeT-hWoRuMhPUDvG_Zf1096VYWXlNHoK7Tf8HsF7xPfPn-wlSBhekJ8lQSH6_ykEx5x-qtwstIss/s320/IMG_4048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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A side trip to Penticton in British Columbia included lunch at a beautiful winery, and then we moved on to Lake Louise. We saw lots of deer and elk, and even a bear, but chipmunks are the only wild animals I am comfortable photographing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakkxuLSQ-FIewDWmkCxb39MgaKfQqoEjfnmH5lq7Wr3TLFSLMRHsk_ZeNDogSR1rUokCY9DIlSM6MwXm6L_DvtbxugmIFJqkIG4XCRquJFknqZJsOFuCYYSqsPyFme_jkbeLwyXOPZQ4/s1600/IMG_4063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakkxuLSQ-FIewDWmkCxb39MgaKfQqoEjfnmH5lq7Wr3TLFSLMRHsk_ZeNDogSR1rUokCY9DIlSM6MwXm6L_DvtbxugmIFJqkIG4XCRquJFknqZJsOFuCYYSqsPyFme_jkbeLwyXOPZQ4/s200/IMG_4063.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-l9hVYnInDg88reG3wkmy0iMufOw9UUFkcx60zKs6L_kya7mik8SRj4ext24NGokvBHaVzxBbSQNyv_kkXTWOIjX343md634ZSMxmccFHQfb0iomol1VllM_F_bjUkLpyNWqOAMqc3wE/s1600/IMG_4058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-l9hVYnInDg88reG3wkmy0iMufOw9UUFkcx60zKs6L_kya7mik8SRj4ext24NGokvBHaVzxBbSQNyv_kkXTWOIjX343md634ZSMxmccFHQfb0iomol1VllM_F_bjUkLpyNWqOAMqc3wE/s200/IMG_4058.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div>We were back home on Friday afternoon. My husband had done all the driving, so I think he was a little tired, but we both had a great time. Here is my new Jim Shore Scottish Santa. What a souvenir.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlkOcui_s__-KNnO4-XZwVQWBxN0_IXoxUGNiq1CVe97xDrDZJP_F4oD49Yn4q2EJ61iE9JtV1oSXhDtuvo5tTRYQkg4leQ9_vbbCR2k2UQVgkt7jPuMVOXhNMrhi_wROeaXmU9cI4HHs/s1600/IMG_4079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlkOcui_s__-KNnO4-XZwVQWBxN0_IXoxUGNiq1CVe97xDrDZJP_F4oD49Yn4q2EJ61iE9JtV1oSXhDtuvo5tTRYQkg4leQ9_vbbCR2k2UQVgkt7jPuMVOXhNMrhi_wROeaXmU9cI4HHs/s200/IMG_4079.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>I have fabric for my next sewing project, although I should do a little gardening first.</div><div><br />
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</div><div>Sandy</div></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-20642159115048751582011-05-02T08:10:00.000-06:002011-05-02T08:10:27.995-06:00Spring Showers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Yes, spring is finally here. The snow is gone (except for a few stubborn patches here and there) and the grass is starting to turn green. Brave perennials are poking their first green leaves through the soil. Robins can be heard singing from early morning to well into the evening. All is well!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GPdlC3WiGpnEX1zNiv8zYihDYYVfkt-gsm8b5lWcqg-RNAYrpElySmQWIjj_iWPG6oRdSGUG9qzDmaFX1fjjbrFCNGXrmvlRmbbIsZjpfoHeTMt4J5cbHV4GSKws7jzH6B1fbCPzB4c/s1600/IMG_4015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GPdlC3WiGpnEX1zNiv8zYihDYYVfkt-gsm8b5lWcqg-RNAYrpElySmQWIjj_iWPG6oRdSGUG9qzDmaFX1fjjbrFCNGXrmvlRmbbIsZjpfoHeTMt4J5cbHV4GSKws7jzH6B1fbCPzB4c/s200/IMG_4015.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK2RBcHwpvx4T4-SAoyU3jTA1gX9uoRaEjijQgIYJyHHmm6ADLlWoVXMiH7qUZD4n6_WAAnjQscdEYA5L_HZqob-YFUhZRowrz2SHs2PuzUcegyf6-THh0JcMRCb0jjlN0Tsv025Wrdc/s1600/IMG_3994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWK2RBcHwpvx4T4-SAoyU3jTA1gX9uoRaEjijQgIYJyHHmm6ADLlWoVXMiH7qUZD4n6_WAAnjQscdEYA5L_HZqob-YFUhZRowrz2SHs2PuzUcegyf6-THh0JcMRCb0jjlN0Tsv025Wrdc/s200/IMG_3994.JPG" width="200" /></a>There was even a lovely spring shower yesterday --- a baby shower. I love baby showers. There is always lots of wonderful food, good company and, best of all, a beautiful new baby to hold and admire. I finished my gift, a quilt, on Saturday evening (thank goodness). By now, everyone assumes that my gift bag holds a quilt, and I would hate to disappoint.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCPLK-SbSKX7mhMD7Yd3dRC0uizj1aHtZ-B6eIWPsjU9_Hi6ZZZhx1KTHqQMn7_Vzr1HF1iueoqX3GrkPsPKuiC53fL0TtLrBS3d-fCq2fWVVxRA2u9v8yXjUYW1xwdY8IEit8pPBNAU/s1600/IMG_3995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCPLK-SbSKX7mhMD7Yd3dRC0uizj1aHtZ-B6eIWPsjU9_Hi6ZZZhx1KTHqQMn7_Vzr1HF1iueoqX3GrkPsPKuiC53fL0TtLrBS3d-fCq2fWVVxRA2u9v8yXjUYW1xwdY8IEit8pPBNAU/s200/IMG_3995.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG40d1Q9x0zEoq3gpLjpxa7xIh94yt5C0W9vlQREq4yQNsdehFw0S6-iH0cjldrthoKrOb2uINjJh51WZYrTTy4-MUytHF0x54I6E8Wz7OXdozrhEjO0I-dHPvLYEL0x30NB2Paw2FG1o/s1600/IMG_4000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG40d1Q9x0zEoq3gpLjpxa7xIh94yt5C0W9vlQREq4yQNsdehFw0S6-iH0cjldrthoKrOb2uINjJh51WZYrTTy4-MUytHF0x54I6E8Wz7OXdozrhEjO0I-dHPvLYEL0x30NB2Paw2FG1o/s200/IMG_4000.JPG" width="200" /></a>I used the Dutchmen's Puzzle Baby Quilt pattern from the apq website, and dug into my little stash of Petite Maison fabric. I like pink and green together, and I hope Baby Chloe will, too.<br />
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I would love to start gardening today, but the ground is still frozen in places. I lost a few plants over our exceptionally long winter, but that gives me a good excuse to make a trip to the garden centre. <br />
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Maybe I could start planning my next sewing project, as well!<br />
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Sandy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-4991557211123413942011-04-20T09:35:00.002-06:002011-04-20T10:23:58.348-06:00Counting my blessings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnAGH1vWP5TUgrfGoipzEJPfzeRGKcjQpeUyl8vCvqmzlTzXQB_yNY7RXVjonWs6yC_sepwJnc17Xpi07tu5xsI41e3lxVDeZStuvZwDoxQ3XSAa9OoEyo-Rcn5Qz8O8vpK34eFPkYUE/s1600/IMG_3983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnAGH1vWP5TUgrfGoipzEJPfzeRGKcjQpeUyl8vCvqmzlTzXQB_yNY7RXVjonWs6yC_sepwJnc17Xpi07tu5xsI41e3lxVDeZStuvZwDoxQ3XSAa9OoEyo-Rcn5Qz8O8vpK34eFPkYUE/s320/IMG_3983.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There has not been much sewing (or crafting) going on around here lately. While I would like to blame my lack of creativity on the weather (yes, this is what I looked at this morning), or on my aching joints, I know that our weather woes will pass and my arthritic joints will start to feel better. I have decided that I really need to look on the bright side. I need to count my blessings. There is a sweet song about just that, made popular years ago by Bing Crosby. Diana Krall has recorded a lovely version, too. My blessings are numerous (too numerous to mention here) but I can say that they begin and end with my wonderful family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWw5zyYkC2DXkj4aThlyEhKb0DZtc1yQVU-h8LB_nNj7scDS1ZuTAsHBvqXJxoQGLDfGZOt0XhNYUSOl8tOKu-ijrAxLBPOsV9kWfkApnTwPZDXHHVFaDXeAgzV8mzPvUjgLh_DqTMkWw/s1600/IMG_3972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWw5zyYkC2DXkj4aThlyEhKb0DZtc1yQVU-h8LB_nNj7scDS1ZuTAsHBvqXJxoQGLDfGZOt0XhNYUSOl8tOKu-ijrAxLBPOsV9kWfkApnTwPZDXHHVFaDXeAgzV8mzPvUjgLh_DqTMkWw/s200/IMG_3972.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
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I have managed a little sewing recently. I made an Easter card for my mom from this paper-pieced daffodil.<br />
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Of course, Easter would not be complete without some Easter goody bags for my grandchildren. I decided to use some iron-on transfers this year.<br />
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The transfers worked well on my granddaughter's bag and on the one for my little grandson, but not so much on the bag for my four-year-old grandson. What to do? I decided to try paper-piecing a soccer ball instead. My husband told me last night that the kids don't really pay attention to the outside of the bag. They are more interested in what is inside. He is probably right!<br />
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I still need to start work on a baby quilt for a little girl who is due this Friday, April 22. No pressure there!<br />
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HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!<br />
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Sandy<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">I just heard that Chloe Alexandra was born early this morning. Now I really need to get busy!</span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-63474585603083830042011-04-03T13:40:00.000-06:002011-04-03T13:40:02.348-06:00ENOUGH!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_cHauCYjmPCZTH07onF9ctEl0OlEYKmpBFA4hTv9Q3uPk3BQmZGQ5MSY6EVFEGuMRwQzWek1_Dh4EgFQtw8bZxYBDMe-b0l98guwWV9OZI0oHq0g7apTArwLoaZ5LCMsSUjRcrUhJi8/s1600/IMG_3962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_cHauCYjmPCZTH07onF9ctEl0OlEYKmpBFA4hTv9Q3uPk3BQmZGQ5MSY6EVFEGuMRwQzWek1_Dh4EgFQtw8bZxYBDMe-b0l98guwWV9OZI0oHq0g7apTArwLoaZ5LCMsSUjRcrUhJi8/s320/IMG_3962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Mother Nature has been playing a very spirited game of 'Spring Tease' with us. She will give us a few spring-like days of warmish weather and then WHAM, we get this...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNacg29923EOLUlnoVgvZ_B4wg09DGcqtWVnJjpjET56gO15dfpDaK17Q4obgvz3rFwAPOytU9q_7GmLR44EN_h5q0VW1UbfvMbOoT9R-VoMC1WlCsAhOIzfWDZq9WmeZ-PjiY295ofAU/s1600/IMG_3966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNacg29923EOLUlnoVgvZ_B4wg09DGcqtWVnJjpjET56gO15dfpDaK17Q4obgvz3rFwAPOytU9q_7GmLR44EN_h5q0VW1UbfvMbOoT9R-VoMC1WlCsAhOIzfWDZq9WmeZ-PjiY295ofAU/s320/IMG_3966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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It will take more than a few days for all of this to melt. Now this is all very pretty, a real Winter Wonderland, but enough already.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z_CEEdhabJdf77gd8MTJvDFOIeQvSQChJOFYDL8piuN5DV6HrVHumHYuuQVW-xfpm6dt8pHuBYFzd4fPzXP51d1ucBNvUgJ_GOhgqhb2uYGmfnvveuHd-KUSnCWBAF5Bz5LEhAzx9RY/s1600/IMG_3967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z_CEEdhabJdf77gd8MTJvDFOIeQvSQChJOFYDL8piuN5DV6HrVHumHYuuQVW-xfpm6dt8pHuBYFzd4fPzXP51d1ucBNvUgJ_GOhgqhb2uYGmfnvveuHd-KUSnCWBAF5Bz5LEhAzx9RY/s320/IMG_3967.JPG" width="264" /></a><br />
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It will be weeks before even the bravest of spring bulbs will make an appearance around here, so it was back to the grocery store for another spring fix. I love purple tulips!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-65717635713044192092011-03-21T15:50:00.002-06:002011-03-21T16:03:08.774-06:00Spring has sprung, just not anywhere near hereIt has been snowing off and on for two days now. The snowfall warning has been lifted, which means that significant amounts of snow are no longer expected. I think that any amount of snow that falls after the first day of spring is significant!<br />
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I was so impressed by Liri's photos of her daffodils that I had to buy these,</div><div><br />
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</div><div> and in honour of spring I brought out a few spring things.</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDdhjuh3hYPPTZeLoYmnQ9bg09OOGoNGcAbdeRIAWwANhFcovIHe_h7m-9WPw9cfVbJvxbo3ipeB1qysa7ZpVzlCJ2dHb0TYvkY6z67vhe58Cl8wH3_yfuLgqdhbpGOuF5wRTv1GCB7s/s1600/IMG_3950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDdhjuh3hYPPTZeLoYmnQ9bg09OOGoNGcAbdeRIAWwANhFcovIHe_h7m-9WPw9cfVbJvxbo3ipeB1qysa7ZpVzlCJ2dHb0TYvkY6z67vhe58Cl8wH3_yfuLgqdhbpGOuF5wRTv1GCB7s/s200/IMG_3950.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8KMZ7Dy2rodh-kIYWEimmui0cEhZssewgrNaYw7gSHlNbxAo3BlkaFKWtuyOne8fhO-Mb02wWZjWl6D3vXTWKwpZQLkzB_EfSiz-8vWxWMjkxpJj9l0KBwF7f2CZz5VFq5yNppLmYHQ/s1600/IMG_3955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8KMZ7Dy2rodh-kIYWEimmui0cEhZssewgrNaYw7gSHlNbxAo3BlkaFKWtuyOne8fhO-Mb02wWZjWl6D3vXTWKwpZQLkzB_EfSiz-8vWxWMjkxpJj9l0KBwF7f2CZz5VFq5yNppLmYHQ/s200/IMG_3955.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div><br />
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My two year old grandson thinks these are kitties! </div><div><br />
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</div><div> I have finally framed and hung a few of my counted cross stitch pieces.<br />
I'm not sure what took me so long.</div><div><br />
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</div><div> Warmer weather is predicted for this weekend. I can't wait!<br />
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Sandy</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-38530671257056629792011-03-17T22:30:00.001-06:002011-03-18T00:43:38.255-06:00Back to the beginning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4LGjpkaD98o3SvKoQZkHRtEFvmIBYEMqKmhWR-L3FffYQLgo4mDbn6a9ajRiDRDhiCPvDhxEJR1xUSEus9Ygp0v9m67XrCeXNq1veeUvPINLijjoAQ0hXXipDG0np5OjbWIG6uzYOSM/s1600/IMG_3188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4LGjpkaD98o3SvKoQZkHRtEFvmIBYEMqKmhWR-L3FffYQLgo4mDbn6a9ajRiDRDhiCPvDhxEJR1xUSEus9Ygp0v9m67XrCeXNq1veeUvPINLijjoAQ0hXXipDG0np5OjbWIG6uzYOSM/s400/IMG_3188.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sixteen years ago this spring I made my first quilt. It was for my then eighteen years old daughter's twin bed. She needed a new comforter/quilt and could not find anything in the stores that she liked. I had always wanted to learn how to quilt. This seemed like a good time to start.<br />
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I found a simple pinwheel pattern and we then went shopping for fabric. The sewing was relatively easy as I had been sewing since I was nine, but the quilting was a bit of a challenge. (I didn't acquire a walking foot until several projects later, along with my first rotary cutter and self-healing mat.) The quilting itself was very simple -- diagonal lines through the blocks. The binding also proved to be a bit tricky without a walking foot. I learned to do a square-cornered binding for that quilt (mitred corners came much later for me). I borrowed the quilt last year to take a few pictures. It is old and faded now and, according to my daughter, only occasionally pulled out of the closet when an extra blanket is needed.<br />
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No honours for this quilt, no ribbons or prizes, but it is special to me nonetheless.<br />
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My next project is yet another baby quilt, this time for my son-in-law's sister who's baby girl is due in late April. I guess I should get busy!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-74365998772907495882011-03-12T14:10:00.010-07:002011-03-17T09:16:51.366-06:00Getting back to normalMy life is slowly getting back to normal. I am no longer 'watching' my dog, Tessa, as she recuperates from surgery. Her sutures were removed on Monday, and she is well on her way to making a full recovery. Even better, we received great news from our veterinarian. The tissue samples from Tessa's second surgery were cancer free. We are cautiously optimistic that we will have her in our lives for a few more years. I don't know what we would do without our two furry girls.<br />
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My computer time was very limited while Tessa was recuperating. Now I can once again read all of your entertaining blogs, and even comment from time to time. (We even have a new, very comfy, computer chair.)<br />
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I have been able to do some quilting, and have managed to finish the little boy quilt I started last month.<br />
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What looks like a covered journal in the third photo is actually a covered photo album. The pattern is from the 'apq' website.<br />
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I'm not sure when I'll get to meet this new little one, as he lives clear across the country. He and his mama were to have made the trip sometime this month, but it seems that plans have changed. I just might have to pack this up and put it in the mail.<br />
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We finally have some spring-like weather, which means lots of muddy paws as the back yard thaws!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-61887818194930217502011-02-23T19:10:00.003-07:002011-02-24T13:08:09.484-07:00Real life, and a bit of quiltingReal life has a way of demanding our attention from time to time. It has certainly had my attention lately.<br />
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A dear aunt passed away on Valentine's Day. While she never married or had children of her own, she had a great many nieces and nephews. I decided that as the oldest of those nieces and nephews I should speak at her memorial service. I struggled last week with the writing of that eulogy. The quick trip home last weekend helped me realize that the words themselves were not as important as the love we all had for an amazing lady.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4ujHU9586VQj_v1Qg6UcqMpylFnqpF3r2IGcO4-51_-PWbsxpqD-CkMd931AFgZkGA6arqxpJ1gLCrWIBBdiBrB7U2A8Mf4MKaDdhhMndhI9Htf-TN70PptG-N7d5gNvy1S1KUlMc7M/s1600/IMG_3858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4ujHU9586VQj_v1Qg6UcqMpylFnqpF3r2IGcO4-51_-PWbsxpqD-CkMd931AFgZkGA6arqxpJ1gLCrWIBBdiBrB7U2A8Mf4MKaDdhhMndhI9Htf-TN70PptG-N7d5gNvy1S1KUlMc7M/s200/IMG_3858.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>In early February our dog Tessa had surgery to remove a growth from her leg. She had to wear a restraint collar while her incision healed -- unless one of us was able to watch her closely. I spent a lot of time 'watching' her during her recovery. A biopsy revealed the growth to be a malignant tumor, and she had a second surgery yesterday, which we hope will improve her chances. I see more watching in my immediate future.<br />
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I have also done a bit of quilting. There is a fairly new little guy in my daughter-in-law's family. I have not yet met him, but I want to be ready when the time comes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwU3rob6YP5VhxTBToxDYBus82x5XOsNMfc2XLcRq9O2uQdLmYRhwxTKEwjm7pcY7YoY1u1J2ZNSNsp831aM8UrCkdlS7HjjjlLoxpqEFiw707TYI0UxjL3maHqYbHgpupqccTqD7xTTQ/s1600/IMG_3889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwU3rob6YP5VhxTBToxDYBus82x5XOsNMfc2XLcRq9O2uQdLmYRhwxTKEwjm7pcY7YoY1u1J2ZNSNsp831aM8UrCkdlS7HjjjlLoxpqEFiw707TYI0UxjL3maHqYbHgpupqccTqD7xTTQ/s200/IMG_3889.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>My local craft store, Michaels, used to sell all sorts of fat quarter bundles, like these, which I then used to make projects like these.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2xWIXA-ftWP0iJY43PZs7eAMJxI4B5ccwZ7r1SF2caO0CvcFMlHmvo7BNCkDAC6LkyfqLBQkpbMrz1XFVUtsQB0t2w3dV0p8j2IWfRnqXCPvh4JQElwEuddQwINEMbN0DixWJJlWtZ0/s1600/IMG_3892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2xWIXA-ftWP0iJY43PZs7eAMJxI4B5ccwZ7r1SF2caO0CvcFMlHmvo7BNCkDAC6LkyfqLBQkpbMrz1XFVUtsQB0t2w3dV0p8j2IWfRnqXCPvh4JQElwEuddQwINEMbN0DixWJJlWtZ0/s200/IMG_3892.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3vc8XqoW9xqnwvD68EnCjiJrBeKQwgrYLZ9DFdEbKs4Mz-uq8KWwUEsumKEPk4i6Y9y1_Wtk57S13JM-Od5WuSjw2XrCH5nNRX5vhu4NgKBHE5EaFfEcq2QCjbE6SmdVOZJdh1uL67A/s1600/IMG_3906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3vc8XqoW9xqnwvD68EnCjiJrBeKQwgrYLZ9DFdEbKs4Mz-uq8KWwUEsumKEPk4i6Y9y1_Wtk57S13JM-Od5WuSjw2XrCH5nNRX5vhu4NgKBHE5EaFfEcq2QCjbE6SmdVOZJdh1uL67A/s200/IMG_3906.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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I had never thought to use them in a larger quilt or throw until I made this. It is larger than a baby quilt -- more like a child's quilt. I started with a disappearing nine patch block and then did a little trimming.<br />
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I know that many of you are enjoying spring-like weather. More snow and very cold temperatures have put our dreams of spring on hold. That's life, I guess!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70neuL3puVUa6WuJBN8FLgs6zFR2-MOeXdhvCRtdPyWM87OyJkNW7dKG6Qs6Vnw-uAymAPCnDknrtc4dFAQWfdrsBNKhBLO86MzQpNV5Mj4otgNnX-4RacmTHkB4PtZFcRXK0xQyb4FU/s1600/IMG_3896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70neuL3puVUa6WuJBN8FLgs6zFR2-MOeXdhvCRtdPyWM87OyJkNW7dKG6Qs6Vnw-uAymAPCnDknrtc4dFAQWfdrsBNKhBLO86MzQpNV5Mj4otgNnX-4RacmTHkB4PtZFcRXK0xQyb4FU/s200/IMG_3896.JPG" width="200" /></a>SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-91175786893381587212011-02-02T11:40:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:44:23.970-06:00Well begun is half done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWRyrChC7YPMK1oY6JHKP4UVjymiccD7IuAgGELeqh5iOFBdfIkRPFC_eov373aZT5KL-FIBM7cvKJLz-d0c8_BIhnWVGamKKK_fvjncKNe0xtK0pBiHjSpGAh5JOZpReeRv2ibGIXig/s1600/IMG_3859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWRyrChC7YPMK1oY6JHKP4UVjymiccD7IuAgGELeqh5iOFBdfIkRPFC_eov373aZT5KL-FIBM7cvKJLz-d0c8_BIhnWVGamKKK_fvjncKNe0xtK0pBiHjSpGAh5JOZpReeRv2ibGIXig/s320/IMG_3859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Aristotle gets the credit for the title of this post. This quilt was well begun over a year ago, but I am happy to say that today it is finished. It started out as a Fons and Porter kit. The original quilt was made up of 100 paper pieced log cabin blocks. My smaller version consists of just 64 blocks. I have to admit that I was not 'in love' with some of the fabrics in the kit but I decided to use them all anyway. I am glad I did.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhO7DbPbQ7HLf8Dk04fRiyBPrhpGegvVpr5HIufx7kfSJx3-ocKp5RcvL5muhje1TGGhR639sJjE-Hibu6yAsRS6rzZ-mX-ODXJORWQr1M1YREMHJgn_q_F_5JSRrcR_oCs5un42uXH3I/s1600/IMG_3863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhO7DbPbQ7HLf8Dk04fRiyBPrhpGegvVpr5HIufx7kfSJx3-ocKp5RcvL5muhje1TGGhR639sJjE-Hibu6yAsRS6rzZ-mX-ODXJORWQr1M1YREMHJgn_q_F_5JSRrcR_oCs5un42uXH3I/s320/IMG_3863.JPG" width="320" /></a>The quilting itself is pretty basic. While I love the look of densely quilted art quilts (and wall hangings and table runners as well) I prefer the softer look and feel of a lightly quilted blanket that will be used for warmth and comfort.<br />
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While some of you have wonderfully creative muses who encourage you with every project, it seems that I am stuck with a nagging voice reminding me that I need to finish what I've started before I can move on to something new. Maybe today I can finally visit my local fabric store. I understand they are holding a big sale!<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-75831126874315225912011-01-20T07:00:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:44:53.278-06:00A Special Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_WuU6l0BxNjihIPNY1KYkHKwoO6tMbosYVYRzRcoF-avdIlYgpk-s4zpjNRGwwswfhh49GvwLH_tmmAag8wYX69NWJRjwXzNRJjTfIDFPcsXBKvOitKnPgGge2emKyUC5XHPeRopJy4/s1600/DSC00066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_WuU6l0BxNjihIPNY1KYkHKwoO6tMbosYVYRzRcoF-avdIlYgpk-s4zpjNRGwwswfhh49GvwLH_tmmAag8wYX69NWJRjwXzNRJjTfIDFPcsXBKvOitKnPgGge2emKyUC5XHPeRopJy4/s320/DSC00066.JPG" width="320" /></a>January 20 is a special day for our family, as five years ago we became grandparents when our beautiful little granddaughter was born. It seems like only yesterday that we were cradling her in our arms for the first time, and now she is such a busy little girl. Here she is at just nine months, 'playing' the piano.<br />
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She started kindergarten last fall, and told me that while they are allowed to sit anywhere in the classroom, she would rather not sit too close to the 'silly boys' because "Grandma, I need to get my work done!". She has swim lessons on Saturday mornings, and, until recently, did gymnastics on Monday evenings. She played outdoor soccer last spring and will do so again this year. Last September, she started dance lessons. Every Wednesday evening she does ballet and tap. Her mommy (our daughter) was a beautiful dancer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKTZu8WLvpg4eJH89ThcN4Gb3I6j7YUhkfA9uA_cPThwUkSMRbWo3WCRJibaK827G4LN0oqzNQGceUTwetZFAnpl6-e7dggniL-n_gOFslCAPN5NxftXJI3rB4THK6pmqujbOGuzCPco/s1600/IMG_3846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKTZu8WLvpg4eJH89ThcN4Gb3I6j7YUhkfA9uA_cPThwUkSMRbWo3WCRJibaK827G4LN0oqzNQGceUTwetZFAnpl6-e7dggniL-n_gOFslCAPN5NxftXJI3rB4THK6pmqujbOGuzCPco/s320/IMG_3846.jpg" width="290" /></a>Years ago, I started this little counted cross stitch piece for our daughter. By the time it was finished, she had outgrown its cutesy-ness, so it was put away. I found it recently and realized it would be perfect for our little granddaughter. Not only is she our little ballerina, she also loves bunnies! Happy birthday sweetie.<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-57015656414004234722011-01-17T11:10:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:45:26.335-06:00A little colour therapyA little colour therapy has worked wonders. I was not sure that I wanted to commit to making a big quilt, but this mini has hit the spot. It is 12 and 3/4 inches square -- perfect for a wall hanging or even a little table mat. I might have to wait until March to officially display the Jim Shore egg (a favourite).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggDYbRcHa_J_u0uZSbLwxnYRaY9VsPIWrOUPHB9EecUcFALRcPBPJ7v3b_f53I4KPAoeZyto73KUbjg6Nnme6aPSHg6cp1U3pzUbX5R1KUcfXvvRz_5wMwa4-GnFmz7CiiewIiuzZbsk0/s1600/IMG_3834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggDYbRcHa_J_u0uZSbLwxnYRaY9VsPIWrOUPHB9EecUcFALRcPBPJ7v3b_f53I4KPAoeZyto73KUbjg6Nnme6aPSHg6cp1U3pzUbX5R1KUcfXvvRz_5wMwa4-GnFmz7CiiewIiuzZbsk0/s400/IMG_3834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Our weather has improved a little, and we should be on the plus side of zero by Friday. I'm hoping for an early spring!<br />
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Sandy<br />
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I forgot to mention that the little blocks were paper pieced.Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-27567178758725165692011-01-12T09:10:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:45:54.888-06:00A thing of beautyKeats said it best. A thing of beauty is a joy for ever...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QJ4mVp_UTSODxnM2A6_NfSGNb5k1MyoOn4cmVp-6E0YRanhzr18s4lhIfa0rK3vQ9YidsHUh4oYVxcRM8PDWjknFMSv-m1zp1mJl7kBd1j4dwutpPVxroNSVrHziUJoUanxmAgTlxCA/s1600/IMG_3818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QJ4mVp_UTSODxnM2A6_NfSGNb5k1MyoOn4cmVp-6E0YRanhzr18s4lhIfa0rK3vQ9YidsHUh4oYVxcRM8PDWjknFMSv-m1zp1mJl7kBd1j4dwutpPVxroNSVrHziUJoUanxmAgTlxCA/s400/IMG_3818.jpg" width="335" /></a>We have been experiencing some truly awful weather. Snow, howling winds, very low temperatures and high wind chills. People have been stranded in their vehicles. People have been stranded in their neighbourhoods!<br />
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My amaryllis should have bloomed by Christmas, but waited until Monday for the first two blooms to unfold. It is a thing of beauty, especially when you consider what is going on outside.<br />
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I have been very unsettled (and at loose ends) which I blame on our crazy weather. I have pored over binders full of patterns, have flipped through countless quilt magazines and have even surfed the web looking for inspiration. Nothing -- at least nothing that I truly want to make. I do have a half-finished quilt I could work on, but even that is unappealing. The local meteorologist predicts a change (for the better) in the weather by this weekend. I will have to settle for catching up on my reading until then.<br />
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Historically, January is our coldest month of the year (March is the snowiest). You would think that I would have this weather thing figured out by now.<br />
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Sandy<br />
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Book note...<br />
I read a variety of books, mostly novels. Last summer I read a beautifully written book by French novelist Muriel Barbery. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"The Elegance of the Hedgehog" is one I would recommend.</span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-62158071418696906622011-01-02T13:20:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:46:23.540-06:00The Promise of a New YearWe were fortunate to be able to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with our kids and grandkids (we then packed up the car with dogs and gifts and drove three hours north for a visit with family), as well as New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, too.<br />
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Our two older grandkids (both four) have been learning to skate this winter. Now, skating is one of those things that looks so easy, yet couldn't be more difficult. I watched them skate yesterday, and since I was a non-skater (my daughter borrowed my skates at least a dozen years ago, and hasn't yet returned them) I was also the photographer. I love this picture of the two little ones.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyOM71aGwAzGf8GLdf8hF8PnvNatcD-5BZFn79c4K56FEgB3vDc-BNOIg3WZ-FC8hFuaxm5vIZ3X30TdUA0jHHmYBIqOBhVt1XseKIXA1pnHCGQ4HdJQxFhpbtdrChbFIP9z17jwvWI8/s1600/IMG_3750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyOM71aGwAzGf8GLdf8hF8PnvNatcD-5BZFn79c4K56FEgB3vDc-BNOIg3WZ-FC8hFuaxm5vIZ3X30TdUA0jHHmYBIqOBhVt1XseKIXA1pnHCGQ4HdJQxFhpbtdrChbFIP9z17jwvWI8/s400/IMG_3750.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
These two are not just cousins, they are best friends. They spend their time together talking and laughing. There are rarely any tears. What amazes me is not their friendship, it is their determination to learn to skate. They each fell at least half a dozen times, and they just got back up and tried again. Even a trip to the benches for a rest was not without peril, as the hard packed snow hid ice below. Eventually, the wind and cold forced us indoors for a bowl of soup and lots of great snacks at our son and daughter-in-law's home, but I couldn't stop thinking of our time at the skating rink.<br />
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I do not make resolutions, except maybe the vague "I want to be a better person" sort of thing. This year, I want to be more like my two young grandkids. They are, for the most part, unafraid.<br />
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Sandy<br />
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P.S. My mom loved her Hello Betty quilt. I am so glad I made it for her.<br />
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</span>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-19666608345111515052010-12-23T07:50:00.000-07:002011-03-25T20:46:47.859-06:00The Christmas BagMy husband and I became grandparents for the first time in 2006. Our granddaughter was born in January 2006 to our daughter and son-in-law, and our first grandson was born in October (nine months less one day later) to our son and daughter-in-law. So, for the babies' first Christmas, I decided to make, and fill, stockings from Grandma (and Grandpa, too). I found a cute, small stocking pattern and went to work. By the time I had finished sewing and shopping I had great little stockings with way too much stuff to ever fit into them. So, the next year I made bigger stockings, and ended up with the same problem. (I really should carry a measuring tape with me.) By the time their third Christmas rolled around I realized I needed a better plan. Enter the 'Christmas Bag'.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswUduXzc7oZZjeiQh7Ivp5-Vr5X4jnSnIHGWj4BN5w3oeeElVNh0W34QiIcHM-KnI6nUf6WCqP5OhID7UP7VNoduwQ3As2SLmk3U4XhrZboaBGGAlX4jUZwxSWcCfvuSX85nYj6fuwz8/s1600/IMG_3240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswUduXzc7oZZjeiQh7Ivp5-Vr5X4jnSnIHGWj4BN5w3oeeElVNh0W34QiIcHM-KnI6nUf6WCqP5OhID7UP7VNoduwQ3As2SLmk3U4XhrZboaBGGAlX4jUZwxSWcCfvuSX85nYj6fuwz8/s200/IMG_3240.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
I had already discovered that Easter baskets didn't hold a whole lot, either, and had used a pattern from Quilts and more magazine to make colourful lined bags for their Easter goodies. Why not do the same at Christmas. Sometimes the bags are fancy, like these from last Easter, and sometimes they are simple, like this year's Christmas editions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0-nFz3T5yz7bwPOPfiOJrg3-5bEdA-bt_3COJ82rKHbtfqF47Jq-mwrzgM7IJXBuJ0HU503VqHNIAusSXzyaB_GVx9HI2JNn_Tk85nb8Vk4Ce1Qm_ZkqeHJuqOuFQ2wuf33ZzxrP0Q/s1600/IMG_3721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0-nFz3T5yz7bwPOPfiOJrg3-5bEdA-bt_3COJ82rKHbtfqF47Jq-mwrzgM7IJXBuJ0HU503VqHNIAusSXzyaB_GVx9HI2JNn_Tk85nb8Vk4Ce1Qm_ZkqeHJuqOuFQ2wuf33ZzxrP0Q/s200/IMG_3721.JPG" width="200" /></a>We have a third grandchild now. Our son and daughter-in-law welcomed a second son in February 2009. We are crazy about all three, and love being able to spoil them with a few extra treats.<br />
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And, at last...<br />
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The Hello Betty quilt is finished. Just in time, too, as it is to be a gift for my mom (who is a Betty). It is not perfect. It has lots of little tucks and puckers, which I noticed while hand sewing the binding. But, it is done!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_QUcIQnh7ocxItfiV7sZSplc7ffsG_qi7tkHU0RVETZ0KMi8r4UzJOssUiIKpd0tT3vjisaQJsTdFG6HRvtLzsnRoqJNUEUDEoQ_hHlS6tF_Ab6QUBx8EZWN33bsciYijBRgmOs-CEA/s1600/IMG_3725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_QUcIQnh7ocxItfiV7sZSplc7ffsG_qi7tkHU0RVETZ0KMi8r4UzJOssUiIKpd0tT3vjisaQJsTdFG6HRvtLzsnRoqJNUEUDEoQ_hHlS6tF_Ab6QUBx8EZWN33bsciYijBRgmOs-CEA/s200/IMG_3725.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg712GhMouGF67PkgNtjXVwSQKQGs76x6W-tunbU8ODVZwqc8rWJQssZeOcQZL7R1ePKxscxawJyOgRUdiZprwjZp3U9edufqjPxTzPS_Lrymto4tti6Wcue-GWn2x0f45DAyHJ0owJ7pU/s1600/IMG_3724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg712GhMouGF67PkgNtjXVwSQKQGs76x6W-tunbU8ODVZwqc8rWJQssZeOcQZL7R1ePKxscxawJyOgRUdiZprwjZp3U9edufqjPxTzPS_Lrymto4tti6Wcue-GWn2x0f45DAyHJ0owJ7pU/s200/IMG_3724.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXO58xQ5mfcJfX2l-lXq6MXaDpOGvwE71EraDnax8fC1DjbWq3dhlwZmDyXgQOKDW2en22JNgw1qJaFyE6dNsoIvkca8c-h4Tod7xkVtwAj3td60qpZ0KECQh6Giy7PQM0RyNK2qoZOUE/s1600/IMG_3722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXO58xQ5mfcJfX2l-lXq6MXaDpOGvwE71EraDnax8fC1DjbWq3dhlwZmDyXgQOKDW2en22JNgw1qJaFyE6dNsoIvkca8c-h4Tod7xkVtwAj3td60qpZ0KECQh6Giy7PQM0RyNK2qoZOUE/s200/IMG_3722.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Merry Christmas, everyone.<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-51464828460044483012010-12-20T18:30:00.001-07:002010-12-20T18:41:04.772-07:00My Other LoveI am close to finishing my Christmas sewing projects, although my husband might point out that 'close' only counts in horseshoes (the game, that is). When I am not sewing or baking or wrapping gifts, I am on the computer, catching up on all the wonderful Christmas blogs.<br />
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While sewing is my first love (quilting came much later), counted cross stitch has long been a favourite as well. I love the portability of it. I have worked on projects while waiting for my car (oil changes) and waiting for my kids (piano lessons). Most of the pieces I have stitched have been given to family and friends, but I have kept a few Christmas pieces.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfD6PRKNfCiIHi2jjUHE9tGD-F4FSl1A7DiIulhSuksvJPoiCYqvfn4jZgp5EK16rzdrhqMuz1huti_m2Kr3Ko6s2uxRcK_hA5OXbkvn6wzUwaUMrwhMUoH5r22a26wow0ziWsAfdV00/s1600/IMG_3707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfD6PRKNfCiIHi2jjUHE9tGD-F4FSl1A7DiIulhSuksvJPoiCYqvfn4jZgp5EK16rzdrhqMuz1huti_m2Kr3Ko6s2uxRcK_hA5OXbkvn6wzUwaUMrwhMUoH5r22a26wow0ziWsAfdV00/s200/IMG_3707.jpg" width="198" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tl_zKjQmIxQwnQUn_vdmdEERiAOUDQc8hOs3fnV8deKsUm_yZ4DF9UHLOXCKOhT9Y556cjQ_UgD8MhvP7hxPHKJvdn6XFVi-8jW_Qf6Cgraq8Y2ouAP4wEFru9O5pZuuEJwtrt5aYQk/s1600/IMG_3703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tl_zKjQmIxQwnQUn_vdmdEERiAOUDQc8hOs3fnV8deKsUm_yZ4DF9UHLOXCKOhT9Y556cjQ_UgD8MhvP7hxPHKJvdn6XFVi-8jW_Qf6Cgraq8Y2ouAP4wEFru9O5pZuuEJwtrt5aYQk/s200/IMG_3703.jpg" width="68" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRF4fK3geu1FFv6DNN6H-Hrbs9K35ixu-vRlC-TNJ8APQb-feolEvo6Wu-MeeHZ9scHYLMTvWrmQZaUclk1aKD8GipQKZMJT-Ar1QfyqGiaF4WNjTdyeml_zQsOOMybRMCo2E3Hsgy0I/s1600/IMG_3706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRF4fK3geu1FFv6DNN6H-Hrbs9K35ixu-vRlC-TNJ8APQb-feolEvo6Wu-MeeHZ9scHYLMTvWrmQZaUclk1aKD8GipQKZMJT-Ar1QfyqGiaF4WNjTdyeml_zQsOOMybRMCo2E3Hsgy0I/s200/IMG_3706.jpg" width="85" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzrI4AaLTvpz_IckuDKpxQMgahy0QmLgbfW9EgcPTuAdCD5zCDYqXWKlD3nNSp-_hNNw0-pcJAnBf_cQi6kqlFMY81IJ7OlG5i5369ux6p18i2jW0oAXiHmAJlRGX8FJeCHk_pWgW47M/s1600/IMG_3718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzrI4AaLTvpz_IckuDKpxQMgahy0QmLgbfW9EgcPTuAdCD5zCDYqXWKlD3nNSp-_hNNw0-pcJAnBf_cQi6kqlFMY81IJ7OlG5i5369ux6p18i2jW0oAXiHmAJlRGX8FJeCHk_pWgW47M/s200/IMG_3718.JPG" width="200" /></a>Each of these ornaments is part of a set of four. They have hung on our tree for years. (The stocking is embroidered.)<br />
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My mom has been the recipient of more than a few counted cross stitch projects. I used waste canvas to embellish this sweatshirt for her birthday this year, and the tulip pillow was a Mother's Day gift.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-VnJ2h7blbXGsRJlVjsmBJUErW8EXEjfBwxVVEvzownBlPx8fNAolk73VpLdrljZN6k-Bnh0VL4hsAeXx5f-D1UjaHsj_Oh87A0qwAYr_vliYav1zAJhqX1SVM3jDYaWORw8BZ0itfg/s1600/IMG_3547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-VnJ2h7blbXGsRJlVjsmBJUErW8EXEjfBwxVVEvzownBlPx8fNAolk73VpLdrljZN6k-Bnh0VL4hsAeXx5f-D1UjaHsj_Oh87A0qwAYr_vliYav1zAJhqX1SVM3jDYaWORw8BZ0itfg/s200/IMG_3547.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFcsfXfCFk0JdxmkIdM88oHDvTMWG68-PUn03AzpDl3Y-X-87sA_Z9sIo5C2WNdUY9Hxs2OuP1FU-G-_d3MhkYUV4PemyzS8nv2HTdnAgHsfl5mZIWwT96f3LkaxEO5ymBPczU_VB608/s1600/IMG_3366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFcsfXfCFk0JdxmkIdM88oHDvTMWG68-PUn03AzpDl3Y-X-87sA_Z9sIo5C2WNdUY9Hxs2OuP1FU-G-_d3MhkYUV4PemyzS8nv2HTdnAgHsfl5mZIWwT96f3LkaxEO5ymBPczU_VB608/s200/IMG_3366.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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I wish I had more time to stitch. Perhaps that could be part of a New Year's resolution. For now, I need to get back to my sewing room. I am so close to the finish line.<br />
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SandySandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3318466694566485583.post-65614547180448359622010-11-30T12:10:00.001-07:002011-05-14T11:12:54.740-06:00A Work in Progress<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For some time now I have wanted to make a boxed square quilt, like the one on the cover of this book. I don't have a huge stash, or lots of scraps, so I decided to wait until the right fabric 'spoke' to me.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUE9HG-U3HSV2jp0Q8fUOH_yhJk_cPSQFCuYpz7YMtBW4TLIAvSnmYx-5PkxHCBxuEoT3dhTASdxVieWJDF30dRq4SLpVROWHLkp9HfvkGHd0wXHL6qTg4fi-x9IgYMAFSAU5rF4CLG4/s1600/IMG_3690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUE9HG-U3HSV2jp0Q8fUOH_yhJk_cPSQFCuYpz7YMtBW4TLIAvSnmYx-5PkxHCBxuEoT3dhTASdxVieWJDF30dRq4SLpVROWHLkp9HfvkGHd0wXHL6qTg4fi-x9IgYMAFSAU5rF4CLG4/s200/IMG_3690.JPG" width="193" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I thought I had found the perfect fabric this summer, when I received my Hello Betty layer cakes. Now I am not so sure.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxlElA47MavikNvnv2pG3_g3yY_CoQGugxXYyqi8kTxVRbOwVRBX5XqttbPIIMxRuNdba1xq-wabp7NAyvcC7QOH0OS9DMURm0af45bAQUfQERSZA50QsbYULPwR_Gyxch0C4MvXKoMc/s1600/IMG_3584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFxlElA47MavikNvnv2pG3_g3yY_CoQGugxXYyqi8kTxVRbOwVRBX5XqttbPIIMxRuNdba1xq-wabp7NAyvcC7QOH0OS9DMURm0af45bAQUfQERSZA50QsbYULPwR_Gyxch0C4MvXKoMc/s200/IMG_3584.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I like the way each block looks, but I am worried about the busy-ness of the overall quilt. So, while all the blocks are made, the arrangement (and re-arrangement) of the blocks has put me at a standstill. I have even asked my husband for his opinion. (I received his usual "It looks good to me" response.)</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIVvQcJ3ievWlxQE0xGWa-qYO1sqa_7gik8S9V-HmVj3VOpvNKEvHb4dTeNi3hxjQV6sFqnWmKHN61joxPggonTm-NXeZFZtGUMzH2cCbkkUzEXSetYnOFiLAOXts6lJ2LV0pCUve6VU/s1600/IMG_3691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIVvQcJ3ievWlxQE0xGWa-qYO1sqa_7gik8S9V-HmVj3VOpvNKEvHb4dTeNi3hxjQV6sFqnWmKHN61joxPggonTm-NXeZFZtGUMzH2cCbkkUzEXSetYnOFiLAOXts6lJ2LV0pCUve6VU/s320/IMG_3691.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUE9HG-U3HSV2jp0Q8fUOH_yhJk_cPSQFCuYpz7YMtBW4TLIAvSnmYx-5PkxHCBxuEoT3dhTASdxVieWJDF30dRq4SLpVROWHLkp9HfvkGHd0wXHL6qTg4fi-x9IgYMAFSAU5rF4CLG4/s1600/IMG_3690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUE9HG-U3HSV2jp0Q8fUOH_yhJk_cPSQFCuYpz7YMtBW4TLIAvSnmYx-5PkxHCBxuEoT3dhTASdxVieWJDF30dRq4SLpVROWHLkp9HfvkGHd0wXHL6qTg4fi-x9IgYMAFSAU5rF4CLG4/s1600/IMG_3690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a></div>I do have one small finish. Our son-in-law's parents have invited us to their home for a Christmas get-together this Friday. My husband will take a bottle of wine for the host, and I had considered making a wine bottle bag when I remembered my new paper piecing book. I think this is much nicer than a bottle bag. The hostess has lots of pretty votive candle holders, so I have some scented candles for her, too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkWwbKGZMc4awGPsr-uDYK8vQuKoyivPdxMeOGqvawzpec8tEUCY6TRWp7V7cqkrV7jAaPxTKpV9LiDUVOOds9-afkeUl0GrHWRYyFzgZTsHa7pVXwowtxD2kFngrmBtqoKQ5p9eOpcg/s1600/IMG_3686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkWwbKGZMc4awGPsr-uDYK8vQuKoyivPdxMeOGqvawzpec8tEUCY6TRWp7V7cqkrV7jAaPxTKpV9LiDUVOOds9-afkeUl0GrHWRYyFzgZTsHa7pVXwowtxD2kFngrmBtqoKQ5p9eOpcg/s200/IMG_3686.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I enjoyed reading everyone's Thanksgiving posts. It sounds like you all had lots of good things to eat!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Back to my sewing room to work on my Hello Betty quilt.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Sandy</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Hello Betty quilt update:</span><br />
Thanks for all your thoughtful comments. It seems I had the solution to my problem all along. I purchased some cream/off-white solid fabric last week. After a quick trip through the washer and dryer, it was ready to be cut into sashing strips. The layer cakes contained three solids in addition to all the prints. Now, I wanted to use all of these fabrics, I just didn't know how. With your help, I think I have solved my problem.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WEiINk2wtLxLjkWyAkYYM3rEpPHYKFS9cFIJtr70EDUJLl0XjgMKvT6b0W12fSansXhFsOtvgQSYkbYBjW2QkMWMY5fttIHieMTn0gDOAnOfiuRc5WYqArUJaWiGpEZMRMsVee6U3pg/s1600/IMG_3696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WEiINk2wtLxLjkWyAkYYM3rEpPHYKFS9cFIJtr70EDUJLl0XjgMKvT6b0W12fSansXhFsOtvgQSYkbYBjW2QkMWMY5fttIHieMTn0gDOAnOfiuRc5WYqArUJaWiGpEZMRMsVee6U3pg/s200/IMG_3696.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Tessa came into my sewing room to tell me that she and Katie are getting hungry.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks everyone!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04253599577101852155noreply@blogger.com7