Pieces from my scrapbag..

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone....

2012-02-14T11:47:00.000-06:00

From Finn and Ms. Ebby XOXOXO

Wordless Wednesday...

2012-02-08T23:06:00.000-06:00

A gathering of days....

2012-02-03T22:18:00.002-06:00

form a record of a journey. In this case, mine. Maybe it's because I'm a Libra, and things must be measured and balance. I look at the faces in this Christmas 1999 photo and shake my head, where do the days and weeks and years go? But I know that I have gathered them, and they are an endless stream of connected memories.Some with photos to share.
This is grandson #3, Christopher. He's the little tyke on my knee wearing the red shirt and bib overalls in 1999. Here he is with his mom, now 12 yrs old. He's nearly as tall as I am. The next picture is a rare one. Partly because I haven't shared many pictures of myself.
This was my birthday celebration in October, 2010 when I turned 70. Being a fat and sassy old Granny Finn, I'm reluctant to share pictures of me. I suppose we all are, about one thing or another. I'm holding my youngest grandson, A.J. who will be 2 in May. And DD#2 Jenny, sitting next to me, holding grandson Levi, who is turning 4 this month. Behind me left to right, DS#3, Justin, Grandson #2 Brady(16), DS#1 Matthew, (Brady's dad).In the middle back is my DD#1 Stephanie, her hubby Brian, and Son-In-Law John, married to Jenny. Obviously we are missing about 8 or 9 more grandsons and all 3 granddaughters and middle son John and his family. It was a surpise party on a beautiful October afternoon and it was wonderful to be with my kids.
And one more picture memory floated to the surface tonight, as we slip into another weekend. This one on New Years Day 2011, when we gathered for our family Christmas celebration. This is Matthew's family. My oldest grandson Nick(18),Granny Finn, son Matt, his wife Sheri, and on the floor grandson Brady (16)and the youngest in their family, Tanner, age 12. It was a lovely cold sunny day and we had a wonderful time.
Family pictures that are complete, with all my kids, and their kids, have become nearly impossible. Partly because of distance, but also "circumstances". You know, the kind that has "the Courts" involved in them? Of my 5, 3 have "intact" families, and it's very hard on the two sons who don't. We do the best we can, enjoy who's there and hope for more next time.
For Christmas this year I received one special present in particular. Due to "circumstances" there was only ONE occasion that brought my 2 sisters, their children, my Dad and my family together. We planned a special Father's Day picnic in the town where he was living and managed to have everyone there. Lots of pictures were taken, but as it turns out, there was to be just ONE picture of my Dad with his 9 grandchildren. I don't think any of us realized it at the time. My oldest DD took the snapshot, had a 8 X 10 picture made, and framed for me. It sits up on top of the computer desk where I see it everytime I look up at the clock. I can't tell you how precious it is to see my Dad with the happy young faces of his grandchildren. I'm so glad that day didn't drift off into memory without a trace.

Wordless Wednesday.....

2012-02-01T11:34:00.000-06:00

After hours....

2012-01-31T22:45:00.002-06:00

On the wall the clock ticks steadily onward, inching its' way to February. Only a few hours remain for this page on the calendar called January. Silently Ms. Ebby sits, folded into a resting Budda pose. For her it doesn't measure the number of days, just the length, and it's almost "bedtime treat" time. She has the routine and timing down perfectly, and stays near me so as not to miss it!
The kitchen light is on, altho no one is present, it shines brightly into the hallway where I sit.
Things are going quite well in little ElmVille, and I have ajusted to the majority of the changes. I am comfortable here and quite happy. What it lacks in glamor and size is compensated for with love, concern for my wellbeing, and friendship.
The Cottages were lovely to look at, and convenientally located, with lots of beautiful scenery. But what I found living there was a more profound isolation and lack of connection to other people. Sadly I think it's the case for many people in todays fast moving culture. No one seems to have much time for anyone else. It's not that they doesn't care, it's just that everyone is so busy.
I have been sewing nearly every day, and am still working on having my scraps "managed". I seem to be stuck in the 16 patch mode, and as long as it remains fun, I may as well get some of those scraps turned into blocks. Some boxes remain to be unpacked, and I will get to them...eventully. But for now, right now, at least, I'm sewing *VBS*

From our house to yours....

2011-12-24T22:11:00.000-06:00

Ms. Ebby and I wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season!!

Winter Wonderlands.....

2011-12-09T12:19:00.000-06:00

On the radio and in my back yard! No trouble believing we'll be having a White Christmas this year. Finally, I'm back. It took changing internet providers to accomplish this, but here I am. I'll be back soon with some NEW picture *VBS*

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T16:02:00.000-06:00

More than one way....

2011-10-20T12:08:00.000-05:00

to outfox a fox! Here is the 1984 Learning to live in ElmVille maple leaf ! Take that you varmit blogger who wouldn't post my pictures last night...ha!!!

The rainbow scraps challenge blocks...

2011-10-20T12:04:00.000-05:00

without the newest ones in black for September and orange for October

Another attempt....

2011-10-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

To post a picture and send you greetings from Little Boo!

A road less traveled....

2011-10-19T20:52:00.001-05:00

is definitely one that would lead you to my new abode. Off the beaten track is putting it mildly! My community in The Valley was small. ElmVille is tiny! Not much has changed in the 7 years I lived elsewhere. Back in 1984 I arrived here, young(or at least younger), one 'new job' happy hubby, 4 'less than happy' school age kids and a pair of cats. Mama Cat Chelsea, made a dramatic leap for freedom when the car door opened and son, Marmalade looked on quietly. Mama was never seen again, LOL,there are probably a whole new line of gray tabby cats somewhere here in town. Marmalade accepted the new place. As did I, after a while. The maple leaf quilt was born of those early days of being the 'new fish' in the pond. Of knowing no one, and trying to adjust to the new smaller fishbowl existance. I was in my 'early' stages of being a quilter, but already adapt at doing it my own way. Thus the embroidered stems, and quilting done in sewing thread to match the leaves. It's no great beauty, but has served my family well for 17 odd years. It was my one and only attempt at prairie points!
And 17 years later, I'm back in this little hamlet by choice. A home coming of sorts, maybe the only kind a 'wanderer' such as I, could have. There really is no place I could call "home", depending on your definition. The quilt and I are both back where this adventure Began. No telling what the next chapter will bring *VBS*
Sewing has happened. Sewing each morning with my coffee as usual. I'm up to date on my Rainbow Scraps Challenge, but lack a camera cord to show you my progress. October's color is orange, and I've got orange Shoo Flies a plenty! Maybe tomorrow the missing cord will appear...

And last but not least, my friend, Little Boo. He usually greets you on October 1st...but is a "Johnny Come Lately" this year...oh well, who's counting?? Better late than never!

Finally....

2011-10-12T11:20:00.000-05:00

I'm moved, I'm home(so to speak) and FINALLY....I'm connected to the world again, via WWW. I'm very happy to be all 3!! I'm far from settled, but slowly things begin to take share here. Moving from a quite new small condo into an older duplex takes some getting used to, and much cleverness will be needed to "settle" me in!! A marked lack of closets, and storage space of any sort looms large each morning, but I'll adapt.
Ebony is doing remarkably well, all things considered. She's really 'put off' by the foot traffic past the front of our house, voices so near "her" window world. After 2 weeks here, she has quit running for the bedroom every time she hears someone talking outside. She's lost her convenient 'windows on the world', for the most part, but is learning to use the ones she can access. She's been spooked by the sounds of people living "over" head, but that is growing better also.
As for me, I'm still abit in "limbo" as I search for things, and cope with the multiples that come with a new address and phone number.DD#1 is coming and bringing dinner this evening, a belated Oct. birthday feast, if you will. I am looking forward to seeing her and hearing about her 10 day vacation in Laguna Beach!! I'll be back with some new sewing and quilting pictures as soon as I find the camera cable! LOL....

Moving Day.......!!!!!

2011-09-25T08:12:00.000-05:00

No time for new pictures lately, almost no time for sewing. Folding myself into my chair each evening, refocusing myself for what must be done the next day. My lease here, in the Valley, isn't up until Halloween, but I must make hay while the sun shines! My gaggle of offspring are available enforce, today! Sooooo....today WE MOVE ME!
The picture, from 12 years ago this summer, is of my beloved golden, Daks and my first grandchild, Nick. Nick and Daks were both 5 years that long ago summer. Nick is now a strapping young man of 6+ feet, and a senior this year. Hardly seems possible. Daks has been gone for the 7 years I have lived here, in the Valley. He is always with me in spirit, and today his spirit will be moving back to his old 'stomping grounds'. I will be living two houses down from where he and I lived for the 10 years we had together. His ashes will be traveling with me back to where we "began" as best friends. Some much has been moved already, but so much remains. Wish we luck? The computer will be "down" after today, until the 1st of October when I pick up a new ISP.....see you all then! Hugs for all *VBS*

Good bye August...Hello September..

2011-09-05T13:32:00.001-05:00

And all my good wishes, appreciation and gratitude to the working men and women of America, our dedication to labor and creativity have served us well. I hope and pray they will continue to do so. Happy Labor Day America!
And to my parents, who embodied "labor", my Dad, working 2 or more jobs to make ends meet in the 1940's and 50's. And my Mom, who kept it "all together" and working, at home, raising a family.
And with September 1st, another birthday for my darling DD#1, her 44th. Happy Birthday Baby! And a Happy 10th Anniversary on September 1st to her and her adorable hubby, SIL#1 !! Many more years of happiness and joy in your life together. Love you both!

And a Happy Labor Day to the byproduct of my Labor, my five kids. 44, 42, 39, 37 and 35 yrs into their lives of labor and love, family and friends, heartaches and joys, sunlight and shadows. They blend together, into my beloved family, and part of the larger picture and work force of these United States of America. They are each doing their part, as well as teaching children how to stand up and be counted. Bless them all, and you too!

Ebony...a travelin' cat

2011-08-15T11:59:00.001-05:00

A post about Ebony, my companion and furry friend. Ebony, aka Ebby, has had lots of "air time" here on my quilting blog. She travels over and often appears on the Orphan Train blog as well. She's a "travelin' cat". Her journey began on Oct. 28, 2001, somewhere in WI. I doubt she knew she was destined for travel, and how hard it would be to find a 'forever' home. She did live within the home she was born to for nearly 4 years. She was allowed to have one litter of kittens,and was then spayed and de-clawed. And shortly after, was sent on her way to somewhere else.The Owner's mom took her in, but only for 6 months. The mom was moving and Ebby wasn't to be included. As fate would have it, I was looking for a short-hair, older female cat that already had its procedures done. My DD#1 works with the "mom" of the first owner. On Sept. 29, 2006 Ebony came to live with me, in my little corner of WI.
Most of you that follow my blogs have gotten to know the many faces of Ms. Ebby, along with me. I've told you of her trials and her successes. Most of you know she is quite anti-social, but seek affection and attention in her own mis-trustful way. We aren't each others first choice, but we need each other. She has a forever home now.
She's a permanent enough part of my little corner of the world to be included in a "my favorite things" picture! My last post explained the situation with "the babies", and I ended by saying that somehow the whole experience seemed to have brought us closer, that a bit more trust seems to have been established. And today, a small miracle happened...

As this last picture shows, Ebby is an indoor cat with patio privledges. She "lives" for me letting her go outside in the early morning, and sometimes the early evening. The door MUST be propped open so she can make a hasty retreat if frightened. And that happens often. I am not allowed to come out AFTER she is outside, or she dashes in again. I can go out first and sit in my lawn chair and she joins me, but if I stand up, she runs for the house. That's been the pattern for the whole 5 years she's been here. BUT...this morning, after she was outside, and sitting over much closer to where the sidewalk meets the blacktop, I came out the door with the watering can to water my plants. The miracle?? Yup! You guessed it! She just sat her ground and watched me!! I watered the tomato plant in the pot, the window boxes and the other plants, and she just sat and watched. When I was finished, I pulled the door open and came back inside, and she just sat her ground...unbelieveable! You have to wonder how having "the babies" here for that 37 hours could have changed her attitude, but something has, and I'm delighted!! I have hope of more breakthrough moments as we continue on our journey together.

Muddling through the days...

2011-08-13T16:30:00.001-05:00

and if I may say so, I'd rather be MOVED than waiting. But it's not up to me, and so I wait. I'm doing the Rainbow Scraps Challenge this year, and in addition to working with one color a month, I'm making an additional block for a dontation quilt. I chose the Shoo fly as it's quick, easy and works well with scraps. One block for each month won't do it, however, and I'm adding a 2nd and maybe 3rd as time goes by.
I'm also playing along with Julie K's plaid quilt-a-long. Didn't realize I'm quite short of plaids! I love hers and to me it reads as warmer "fruity" kinds of colors. I'm lacking in those! But I'll muddle along and see what I can find.
I couldn't resist jumping in when Amanda Jean, of crazy mom quilts, announced a 36 patch quilt-a-long. I had a jelly roll that I was itching to get used, not realizing you can't get the required number of 2.5" squares from one set of strips. Sooooo? What to do?, I scratched my noggin and opted for a 16 patch instead! I can make 2 of the 16 patches from one set of strips, and that will work just fine with the jelly roll. The one I'm using is Sandy Gervis's Merry and Bright, from a couple of Christmases ago. I won it in a giveaway.

And last of all, I want to thank you for all the lovely good wishes and happy thoughts you gave me when "the babies" arrived. Sadly, they returned to their former home and Mama cat late the next day. I knew it would be a rocky "go" with Ebby as she's so very damaged in the trust and comfidence department. I hoped she's come around to them gradually and even if she only tolerated them, it could work. Her reaction to "seeing" them in her house was quite spectacular, to say the least! I've never hear that many non-stop hisses come from one cat. She did a quantum dive under the bed, and 37 hours later she was still there. She ventured out a couple of times but the instant she saw them, it happened all over again. I tried to talk to her and reassure her, but all she could do was crouch and hiss at me. I felt certain she'd come out for water, litter box and food during the night(kittens slept in the carrier, locked in) but she didn't.
By early afternoon the next day, I knew she'd be in trouble if she didn't drink or relieve herself soon, and made the decision to return the kittens. Luckily I could do that. They were gone and things cleaned up by 4 0'clock, but it was nearly 8 that night before I looked down and saw her sitting by my chair. She was very skiddish the next 12 hours or so, and spent alot of time smelling every where they had been. By the next day, the 30th, she was gradually relaxing back into her old self. Jean and other friends who encouraged me to "give it a try" felt terrible, but I don't. I realize now that she's a unique case, and while I may not "like" what she's been stuck with, we are a couple of old ladies just "chillin'" together. If anything, she's calmer than before, and a bit more affectionate. Strangely enough, she seems to trust me more...go figure!

In my little corner of the world....

2011-07-28T12:12:00.001-05:00

the population has grown by 2!
Ms. Ebby has new friends!

Design wall Monday...

2011-06-20T13:44:00.002-05:00

sort of. Since I don't have one, I use the floor. It's always there. This is the container I'm working from right now. My enthusium for the Orange Crush blocks has run the distance, for the time being. Sewing every morning with my coffee is my habit, and I don't want it to feel like "work". When I'm tried of something, I work on something else. It all gets finished, eventually,LOL.
This is what I'm making right now with my 2.5" triangles. I'm sewing 4 HSTs together(in this side by side formation) and adding a 4.5" square. I putter along at my own speed...slow.

I only have two speeds, slow and full stop. Push if you wish, but I'm over here in the slow lane these days, and plan on staying here. This is what the top will look like when the rows get joined up. I'm planning on about a 52" X 68" quilt.

Cold, rainy Wednesday...

2011-06-15T12:17:00.001-05:00

in The Valley, definitely a "make your own sunshine" kind of day. Here's a little sunbeam from my house to yours *VBS* My youngest grandson AJ, who turned one in May. This is last summers picture and the only all YELLOW quilt I've ever made. Didn't know it would turn out to be "his" quilt when I made it, but the fit is perfect. He's got a million dollar smile and is a happy sunny baby.
I've mentioned before, once a month at least, that I'm taking part in a Rainbow Scraps Challenge this year. The color for June is yellow. And I have lots and lots of yellow scraps. I use yellows, golds and cheddars frequently in my scrap quilts. I love the sparkle they provide. But I was hard pressed to choose a block to showcase 'yellows'. I thought I would do the "Spools" block. I like it and it's fairly direct, whether planned or scrappy. I found, however, I'm not crazy about the sew and flip aspect, and the idea of making a whole quilt with the 4 s-&-f corners didn't enthuse me. I had scraps left from the Sunnyside Up quilt, and decided to meet my obligation by re-purposing them into 5" 9 patches. An entire quilt of them is NOT the plan. They will become part of something else, eventually. I'm an OLD dog, but I can learn a new trick, LOL.
Although some of you think all I do is play games on FaceBook, I really DO sew quite a bit. I pulled some scrappy parts from a bin and made up this little table topper for July. Quick, easy and happy. It's about 20" square.

The Rubbermaid I'm working on emptying is the one with the 2008 Orange Crush Mystery from QuiltVille. I stopped several blocks and the half row, short of getting it finished...no surprise there. I've cut the parts I need and am sewing on those right now. No promise that I will do the pieced border! I hope you have sunshine in your corner of the world today, as for WI, we need the rain.

Clouds in my coffee...

2011-05-31T17:33:00.001-05:00

and sailing by the Valley today, assisted by 40+ MPH winds. Luckily we've had sunny skies to help us enjoy those high flying clouds. Storms seem to be the 'norm' all across the USA this past few weeks. Our usual unpredictable spring weather is late in arriving.
I had a quiet Memorial Day weekend, enjoying a homemade bread treat with friends, watching some movies including 2012, and sewing. I've finished the 48 blocks I need for the Scot's Plaid pink quilt top. Still need to size them and decide on a layout.
Lots of milestones the past couple of days...53 years ago on May 29th, I graduated high school and looked forward to college. 52 years ago on May 30th, I married someone I thought was my partner for life.And sometimes life happens while you are making other plans. Back in 1959, Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30th...period. For us, it was just the last Saturday in May. The holiday weekend was a bonus for relatives.

I lunched with Betsy today and came home with new scraps and some "starts" of sedem for my shallow flower pots. The window boxes are planted and need warm weather and sunshine to help them grow. The back seat of my car is full of boxes, empty boxes. Yes, this is the year that I will be moving from my little townhouse in the Valley. I've been here nearly 7 years,and have shared almost 6 of those years with you, my blogging friends. Things are up in the air right now.My lease isn't up until Nov. 1st and it's too soon to be applying elsewhere. But it's not too soon to be packing. There is always something to pack that won't be needed until next winter.

And the rains came down....

2011-05-22T13:20:00.001-05:00

and washed the spider out...Now where is that sun to dry up all this rain? Poor spider! Such is life, I guess. No waterspout climbing for me today. A quiet day of sewing is the order of business. These are some of the blocks from a "no pictures posting" post a couple of weeks back. The Boxy Stars are an old UFO, and getting them together empties another container! I'm pulling fabrics searching for the right lattice to set them.
This block is one I'm making from 3.5" HSTs. I've always liked the look of it, and plan on making it queen size for my bed. Haven't done that for a long time, a big quilt I mean *S*.

Here's another possibility for 3.5" HSTs. I think it's called Envelope, but haven't taken time to look it up. With these being 6.5", I can work them into the Kitchen Sink beginnings I showed yesterday. I'll wait and see how it plays out. I think they would make a great quilt all by themselves...but another "begun"? I don't think so, LOL

In the sewing room....

2011-05-21T10:45:00.001-05:00

making progress, moving on. Sewing is my refuge, my passion and helps balance my life. Yes, you've seen these stars. I needed to post again for my PhD report.
Here's part 2 of the Aunt Gracies Stars project. It missed getting its picture taken a couple of days ago.
The collage of both Star quilts is also for PhD.

This is "what's up" in my sewing room yesterday and today. One of my containers holds 3.5" squares and triangles. Cutting that size seemed a good idea at the time, but more time has reveal that it's not a size I use often. So I decided to sewing them into 4 patches(9 patches from 3.5" seem too clunky to me). From the fabrics you can tell that these are cut from OLD scraps. Some newer, but lots of old ones! I was going to stick to just making 4 patches, but there are those trianges in there also. What to do??? Apparently this quilt top is going to be a version of a "Kitchen Sink", LOL. Whatever gets them used, right?

Do you know....

2011-05-20T16:05:00.002-05:00

how it is, sometimes, that you just don't know? You don't know what to think, or do, and almost don't know how to feel? Profoundly sad seems to fit, and I guess, "could I have done more?". A young man that I've known only as Kyle,killed himself this morning in the small village where I live. I've only known Kyle for a couple of years, a nice young man in his late 20's or early 30's. A single guy, full of boyish charm and one who bothered to learn the first names of his customers, and remember them. I wish I could remember exactly when he bought the local Super Valu grocery store. I tell myself this is yet another tragedy connected to the Wall St. disaster of 2008. It doesn't feel like it's quite that long ago. I'm thinking it was in 2009. Either way, that financial disaster contributed to his death.

The Valley is a small place,about 1200 souls live here. It's farm country, and while we don't have BIG farms here, we also don't have many small farms anymore. The population of elderly is probably typical. There are 3 housing units of apartments specifically for elderly within the village limits. Often that means no car. They are dependent on help, or a local grocery store. Mostly these days, towns as small as ours doesn't have one. The rush and the crush of our fast paced world sends most(who can) to shop at warehouse chains such as Sam's Club, or WalMart, and the like. Larger volume, lower prices. And in these trying economic times, price is important.
I've watched Kyle struggle. I'm a Mom, first and foremost, and he became one of my "boys". With 3 sons and a pack of grandsons, it felt normal to me to take a few minutes and ask how he was "doing", how it was "going" and to listen, really listen to what he said. It's hard. Hard knowing how important it was to him, and hard knowing how he struggled to keep that small(family owned until him)business going. For most small businesses, these days, viable is up for grabs every day.
He tried everything,higher prices, lower prices, streamlined the selection of goods, trying to keep what people wanted. I watched the staff grow smaller and smaller and him, work more and more hours, even to the extent of doing all the meat cutting himself. It hurts to watch someone try so hard. Your heart aches for them and you want them to succeed, but know how steep the climb is.
I refect today on Lincoln's quote, "most men lead lives of quiet desperation". There's more to the quote, but that part says what I am feeling. I don't feel guilty regarding Kyle's death, just profoundly sad. I shop at our local Super Valu, known in this area, as Ormson's SuperValu. I knew the older Ormson's, husband and wife back in the 1980's. I shopped there when son Tim took over and ran it. I watched younger brother Brian take Tim's place when he couldn't handle it anymore. And then Kyle, buying into a family business. Living his dream. Back in the 1980's I shopped for a houseful, DH, my Dad and 4 growing children. Now I'm just one person with a fat black cat. I buy(or bought)as much as I am able locally. I know WalMart would save me money, but I also know how much the Valley needs this local grocery store. The next nearest is 20 miles. What the future holds for our Valley in terms of groceries, time will tell. I know what Kyle's suicide means for those seniors who walk with their little carts to get groceries at our store, and for the 5 or 6 employees whose employment status changed abruptly this morning. And what is the point of all this post? Why am I telling you about it? It's simple, I'm on my soapbox to remind all of us. Despite the hustle-bustle of a rapidly moving world, we are EACH just one small piece. Not different than ONE SMALL PIECE you'd put in a quilt. Alone, we are just THAT, but together we make something larger than ourselves. Knowing that, we need to truly see what happens around us. Your awareness may not change the course of things, but then again, it might.

Moving right along...

2011-05-18T11:15:00.001-05:00

on my self-appointed journey, I'm making progress in the "finish it up" department. Mostly I'm guilty of having too many of those "bright idea" flashes in regard to starting quilt tops. This is one of those.
Found this really cute "picture" fabric at Mill Ends awhile back and although it was printed with a lovely light blue in between the pictures, I had a bright idea! Cut all the pictures OUT and add strips...would be far more interesting, and use up some stash. Am I often guilty of re-inventing the wheel? Oh ya, big time! But it does make a cuter quilt top...*VBS*
This is the finish of my April Rainbow Scraps Challenge. I added April's color to an already begun project, and now it's a 45" X 63" top, ready for donation.

Another older "begun" that I had hoped to finish for Christmas 2010. Didn't happen then, but it's a top(48" X 60")now. I will add 6" borders to this one, and finish it up for a family member, by tying it with a puffy batt.
I thought I had taken a picture of the second Friendship star top that was made from the leftovers of the red star one, but it's not in the camera..uppps, senior moment. Guess I'll save it for tomorrow. My empty container total for last week is 3, hurray for me!!! And they are already filled with new WIP quilt tops, ones that will take awhile to have enough pieces.
Apparently I will never run out of pieces from my scrapbag, LOL.

Afterglow.....

2011-05-09T14:53:00.001-05:00

is a rare commodity in my world, but it does happen and it wasn't at Prom. *VBS* I am still enjoying the warm fuzzies from a really excellent Mother's Day. Hope all of you are experiencing the same. I'm a little tired, but with an ear to ear smile on my face. I was up and ready to get busy at 7 a.m. Turns out, first order of business was to hustle and get the car in the garage, as thunderstorms with hail approached. An orange and some coffee and I was ready to SEW! A quick grab from an overloaded shelf in my sewing room turned this UFO into the project for the day! PLEASE, don't ask me how long ago I started this one! Yes, that bad!! Over the years I've worked on it, or tried, the hang up is that same old, "I don't like it". I keep putzing with the layout and the amount and the whole concept, but it never reaches the satification stage. So....
today I put on my "ruthless" face. I am adding one more row of width, at the right of the picture. This IS the quilt that it will be! No borders, just done! And from the container it lived in, the "overflow" amounts to 9 9 patches and 5 stars, some blue, some red. I've made one more 9 patch and 5 more stars today. The overflow will become a second smaller quilt top. NEITHER will get finished into a quilt by me...watch out donation places....here it comes!! And I have another new empty container...let's celebrate!! I'm going to try for another tomorrow!
Last but not least, my youngest grandson, who could be a poster child for American babies. AJ is turning one year old this week. The year has sped by and it's time for the classic baby in the high chair with cake pictures on Saturday...I can hardly wait! Wanna bet my grin lasts alllll week???

In the PINK....

2011-05-07T12:14:00.004-05:00

which is perfect for my plump friend here *VBS*
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat???? Ms. Ebby says "who's plump?" Definitely you DON'T mean me, right??? It's May, and the Rainbow Challenge color this month is "pink". As a teenager of the "50's", I know all about PINK. Like "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White", or "A White Sports Coat and a Pink Carnation", I could go on and on, but it's better if I don't.
I didn't have any UFO's started in pink...that in itself is amazing! So, I got to pick a block I've seen floating around and wanted to try....Scot's Plaid. I have admired one of Brenda's, at Scraps And Strings. Her's was totally scrappy, but it works in pinks!It's a simple block that lends itself well to whatever size square you want to work with. Choose a size for your biggest square(mine are 4.5") and cut the rectanges accordingly. You need 1-4.5", 2-2.5", 2- 2.5 X 4.5", and 2- 2.5 X 6.5". It works up really fast once your pieces are cut.

I began cutting scraps on Monday, and as of this morning, I have 30+ finished blocks. I'm heading for 48. That should give me a quilt top that is 48" X 64". And it's one of those blocks that you can lay out in different way. This pic shows a staight side to side set without flipping anything around. The really good news is that since I'm making so much progress early this month, maybe I can finish up one of the ones I started in Jan, Feb and March, LOL.

Clean Up is harder.....

2011-05-03T17:24:00.001-05:00

than preparation, I'm learning this week. At my age, with nearly 30 years of quilts behind me, you'd think I'd know it all...or nearly, right? Well, that's definitely NOT the case. That statement has little or nothing to do with these Rainbow Challenge "almost" finishes for April. I chose to spend my time and effort on things already begun, instead of starting anything new with purple scraps. That worked out fine. This one will need borders, since its only 36 X 48. I wish I had enough to make it one row wider, but I don't. So borders will have to do.
In early April I had about 8 or 9 blocks made for an all purple scrap Yellow Brick Road pattern. I've brought the count up to 30, which gives me a 45 X 54 top, not sure if I will add borders to it or not. The blocks are ready to be joined up, but haven't laid them out as yet. My back has been acting up more than usual, so bending over blocks on the floor just won't do.
I did get the machine quilting finished on this one in April, but of course, now I've mislaid the binding strips!! Hope to find them soon and get them sewn on. This one can be a donation quilt if we find a place that needs it.

Most of April's quilt related work has taken place at the dining room table, good light there, iron all ready on my right hand, DVD in the machine giving me some company as I work, and lots that needs doing. I did finish making the needed blocks for this Bricks and Stepping Stone(ala Bonnie of Quiltville) top. I don't love it, but then I pretty much never did.Let's call that Lesson#1, it's hard to finish up those you HATE! And Lesson #2 these past weeks is a repeating lesson, soooo many of my blocks come out smaller than they should. I have the "extra expense" 1/4th inch foot for my older Pfaff. It just doesn't do the trick...or does it? What I also learned, or maybe just realized, but lets call it Lesson #3 is that I AM NOT an accurate cutter. For most of my years, cutting has been done standing up at a table or counter. Seldom did I have good light on what I am doing. Often I was cutting late at night, etc, etc, etc. Sound familiar??? Over time the lines on the rulers wear away from the oil in our fingers and they get hard to see. Then lets toss in the ongoing damage to my eyes from a series of eye disorders. That began in 1988, or at least that's when I really began to notice. Hmmmm? I began to wonder and when I pulled out older projects, especially my "bits and parts" I discovered that most of my 4.5" 4 patches were actually 4.25" 4 patches. No wonder my blocks and rows come out the wrong size. I do see an improvement in things I have cut while sitting at the table with good light...another lesson learned! But I have some agony ahead as I finish up the older projects. And I am going to finish them! I have managed to empty 4 rubbermaids over the past week and a half. Besides what I am showing today, I have another set of blocks nearly all joined together. And a finished up set of blocks that need lattice. I've picked my project for the Rainbow Challenge with it springy PINK/ROSE color and have been cutting for that. Onward!

Saturday...

2011-04-16T10:20:00.001-05:00

and some success at last! Sharing my Big B for Brenda's 50th birthday. Mailed off to Winnipeg last week. It was fun to make! Happy Birthday Brenda *VBS*
My 3rd Q4L and the promise to Clare is now fulfilled. This one(#33) went off to Caden B. in Ohio. I hope he likes it. Haven't heard anything back as yet.
Last Saturday DD# 1 was here to pick up her donation quilt for the Wrapped In Hope project. She purchased fabric and backing, and with my help made a quilt for a little gal in MI, whose birthday is on Monday. I suggested we use the leftovers and make whatever size we could as donation top. She did the cutting and I did the sewing as she cut and arranged. We got this one to flimsey stage by the time her DH got back from the track meet. This top.....

along with these 6 of mine, are headed to Margaret's Hope Chest for their April Quilt Top Donation Drive. Six less UFO's for me and for such a good cause!!
There seem to be some new features in the Picasa photo program that are giving me gray hairs, but I'm working on it. Hope to have the new method and reasoning figured out soon! At least I can post pictures again...hurray for that!!

No answers....

2011-04-07T22:18:00.003-05:00

Well, I chose 4 pictures to publish and it looks like I got one. Almost seems like the Universe in tipped a bit on it axis this week, and everything is wonky! Haven't figured out why Picasa(which I've used right from the start with blogging) isn't posting pictures for me. Don't know why Blogger just lost the first 3 I chose. Don't know much it seems. I do know, however, that I got my PROMISED Q4L quilt in the mail and off to Ohio, today. And a package to a friend out west that is long over due is now traveling as well. I'm nearly finished with the binding on another Wrapped In Hope quilt for a child in MI, and I'm working on taming my scraps....again! Hmmmmm, all in all, it seems I know more than I don't know. Reason to celebrate!!
P.S. Oh yes, the one picture is of the quilt I consider to be "purple enough" to qualify for April's Rainbow Scrap Challenge, LOL.

Picture problems....

2011-04-04T15:22:00.001-05:00

I've tried a second time to post the pictures from today, and no luck. Anyone else having problems?

On a Monday in the Valley....

2011-04-04T12:05:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to get myself back into the swing of daily life. My daily life that is. Even from the distance of only being a family friend and quiltmaker, I'm in a place where everything hurts. Keeping life close to home seems the best right now. I have gotten some Quilts for Japan together. These two are going.
And also these two. Betsy has 3 ready to go, and will take care of getting both hers and mine to where they need to be. Today I begin to focus on the Rainbow Scraps Challenge projects. Each month a color is selected, and if you are participating, you work with scraps of that color. April's color is purple, and I have lots and lots of purple scraps. But I'm shifting gears slightly this month. W I've come to realize this challenge has produced a new quilt for each of the past 3 months. Two started in January's blue scraps, and another in February's red scraps. March's green scraps added one more. Of those 4 "started" NONE are finished or even close. That does NOT bode well for someone who is overly prone to UFO-itis!! Sooooooo...
When In April purple scraps, I've decided to work with purple scraps to finish up two UFO's. This one is "purple" enough to qualify in my opinion. The other is an ancient Yellow Brick Road, at least one decade old! I made 9 blocks and promply bagged it. I like the idea of that Yellow Brick Road pattern, but the 9" blocks always seem clumsy to me.

But I will use my purple scraps(hoping at least SOME of the original purples are in the scrapbag or stash, and finish it up!! Same for the one in the 3rd picture, set with those 5" puple polka dots! Onward!

Little boy lost....

2011-03-23T12:14:00.001-05:00

and a new guardian angel found.
My little buddy Sam passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2011 at home with his parents. He was 14 years old. His death was sudden and unexpected. All of us are stunned by his death. I've had the honor of being Sam's quiltmaker and Prayer Warrior since his birth. My lovely DD#1 is his God Mother.
Sam's mommy and DD are 'tied at the heart' friends since girlhood. I was given the task of making Sam's baby quilt, bright and happy, please. And I did. It was sawtooth stars with the VIP jungle print centers. He drooled on it happily. A couple of years later, in my "bug bottles" stage, I made Sam his very own Bug Bottles complete with his pieced letters name on one shelf. The next quilt was a big one, again very bright with reds and yellows, for his big boy bed. The last quilt I made Sam was about 3(or 4, I'm never sure) Christmases ago. DD#1 wanted a bright happy "I Spy" type quilt to cover him in his wheelchair as he rode the special van to school. Sam's mom picked out royal blue flannel with wonderful gold stars to be the backing. I have scraps of all Sam's quilts in my scrapbag. That one that holds the bits, old and new, the memories that linger, and the photographs both bright and faded. It is all in there, that scrapbag of mine, all those parts and pieces of my life. I cannot grieve for Sam, only for those of us who loved him so much. He is free at last to run and play and chase a new puppy. I am the Quiltmaker, I share the Quiltmakers gift. And what I have received in return is priceless.

Sewing....

2011-03-14T11:29:00.004-05:00

and some progress to report. It's a sunny Monday in the Valley and warmer temps are promised all week. Rain in the forecast off and on, but that will take down our snow pack. This quilt was made for a Wrapped In Hope child in MI. The Wrapped In Hope project is part of Margaret's Hope Chest. I've signed up for two birthday's this year.
A close up of the block I learned from Scrappy Quilter. Other than the background(green in this case) it doesn't use much fabric at all. My birthday girl was S, with a birthday in mid February. You can learn more about birthday gifting a child at Margaret's Hope Chest.
I've been working on the March Rainbow Challenge, green. I had lots of green scraps, and quite a few were larger, so I decided to do the Hourglass block (5"as shown here). I cut my scrap to 6" squares, size to 5", and that gives me a 4.5" block finished. I need quite a few. I've gotten 70 done so far.

And since the Rainbow Challenge began, I've also been sewing my MAM(mile-a-minute-tutorial on sidebar)blocks. I like to work with the smaller scraps but it does take longer to get to 6.5". Eventually you need strips that are longer for the outside, or you can piece just that many more small ones together and use those as a "strip". I like the combo of small scraps,odd triangles and slightly longer strings or strips. Making them by any method you choose works just fine. I'm up to 172 in this pan. I stack them in sets of 10(easy to count and to remember), and then stick a slip of scrap paper(that's the white you see at the edge of the block)in between stacks rather than pin them together. When I do put them together, I'll pull from one pile and then a different one. While adding strips,at the outer edges, it might be the WOF. And that gives you the same fabric on several blocks. That's too much same-ness when joining up, so I randomize my "grab and sew" process. MAM quilts are also a great place to stick any wonky stars, house, etc and even an odd letter or to!! OK Finn, back to work!

Slowly... silently.....

2011-03-08T20:42:00.001-06:00

the meager offering of color reveals itself across the landscape of my winter mind. What was found exciting,exhilaring and joyful has become commonplace. It is all of a sameness it seems. The colors of a winter's day...that blur and blend and begin again, more of the same. One must seek color elsewhere in these still long days before we are allowed to anticipate spring's arrival. Hopefully, one watches the edge of the snow drifts, searches the sky for a bird or bird song gone from the daily routine. Perhaps the sky is just a bit bluer today, or the elusive sun shows us a small kindness hinting at warmth. Mostly we wait. And sometimes, even when the day has been long and dreary, and color is just a word your mind plays with...

we might get this. As the last bits of twilight slip away and darkness descends, like a lamp in the window, a beacon to lead you home, spectacular color kicks up its heel and dances away into the darkness of a winter night.

Rainy Days and Mondays....

2011-03-01T13:11:00.000-06:00

and today isn't either. Actually there is no truth lurking there. It's Tuesday, sunny but cold and we have a TON more snow than this picture shows.
The picture is from another time, same place, but a day long gone by. I'm in a really not good head space today. Family situations, sadness and some heartbreak,all front and center. I'm happy to welcome March as she prances in on February's heels. Interesting to me how little color there is in the colored picture I posted. The Rainbow Challenge color for March is green. At least I can be happy and excited about that *VBS*. I'll be back as soon as I can.

The lost is found....

2011-02-25T22:56:00.000-06:00

Remember this little guy, baby L from a couple of years ago???
It's amazing what happens in two years!!! He proudly proclaims for all the world to hear "I can SING and PLAY the piano", LOL
Little brother AJ(almost 1 now) is VERY impressed!!! Big Brother just had a very excellent 3rd birthday last Saturday. He began pre-school for speech therapy yesterday.

I've done quite a bit of sewing in my absence, but haven't taken pictures as yet. I did finish and mail a "birthday" quilt to my Wrapped In Hope child last week. The Wrapped In Hope project is an off shoot of Margaret's Hope Chest. I'll add the link tomorrow.

Reunited and it feels so good....

2011-02-25T22:50:00.000-06:00

I'm back in the saddle again, connected, uploaded and ready for business. There is the small matter of "where are the pictures I uploaded for this post?". Hmmmmm? Well, I'll just hit publish and see what happens, there's always tomorrow.

No news...

2011-02-17T12:45:00.002-06:00

is not necessarily good news in my case. Still nothing to report on the computer. The tech is too busy to help, so I am seeking out a new one...wish me luck!! All I need to know is "is it dead?", if so I can buy a new one, if not, then lets get it fixed. Missing all of you ALOT!!, but I am getting some major sewing accomplished. I'm at the public library today, thank goodness for public access. Keep those stitches running gals!

Hear ye, hear ye...

2011-02-02T20:43:00.002-06:00

This is DD#1 posting for my Mama, Finn! Finn's computer has crashed so she will be "incommunicado" for the time being. A tech has been called so we'll see if it's a fixable thing or if she'll be in the market for a new computer. Either way, nothing is moving too fast with our minus degree temps so I'll keep you all posted. Blessings to all!

Into the rabbit hole...

2011-01-27T15:56:00.001-06:00

tumbling, end over end, head first into an upside down world.Memory serves as no guide here. Actions are by instinct or impulse, you choose. The grinning cat blinks and disappears, the friendly rabbit has no time for such as me. Blackout? White-out? Rabbit hole? It all looks the same. Take refuge amid the scraps, hunker down and wait. Welcome to my world *VBS* I'm here, playing hopscotch or leap frog, or duck, duck, goose amid the blues. I came late to the rainbow party and there isn't much chance I'll finish before the next month's color is announced.But I'm having a ton of fun, and in January, in WI, that seems like a wonderful idea!
I've been turning my scraps into strips, and strips into 9 patches that look like this. I've only "sort of" made a dent in my pan of blue scraps, and what I'm finding is that I'm dreadfully short of light blues. Apparently I like intense color...who could have guessed that? Me? Not a pastel person. I have a plan for these 9 patches rather than my usual haphazard way of just "making it and figuring it out later". My only question is "how many" do I need? Time for some math, I guess.
This is where I am headed with the blues. I think it's going to work fine, and for now, I'm planning a BIGGER,rather than smaller, quilt. One block, finished to the light strip that seperates them is 14.5". Knowing that I can do the math for whatever size I want. The question I have for you is this...does the amount of light overpower the 9 patches too much? I've stewed about that all the while I was putting my idea together. There is very little white in the 9 patches. I tried to keep the 'lights' to light blue, or a blue print with some white(and a few other colors). It definitely won't have a heavy look about it. I can see it doing nicely as a summer quilt. What do you think????

And since my blue scraps are fairly ample(like that fat rabbit) I'm sewing some 2.5" strips into another "strippy" top. I'm heading for 54" X 72" with this one. I folded it in half for the picture. I've kind of steered clear of the aqua tones, tossing them into a seperate pile. The piece is 11 strips wide right now, headed for 27...or less if I run out of blue or get tired of it.

More thoughts on the damaged quilt...

2011-01-18T15:54:00.001-06:00

brought on by several comments and emails. I realized that I may have given the impression that all POLY will do what this one did. And maybe they will, but I don't think so. Here's the boy who owns the damaged quilt. You can see there is no way I couldn't fix it and send it home to him. He is, after all, one of my Candy Corn Bandits *VBS*
And of course, Little Mr. Attitude!
I given the damage quite a bit of thought,both before and since I posted the pictures. I believe the bottom line is that is WAS the poly, but specifically the black poly. As I told one reader, I have NO idea where it came from, it just got added to a pan of solid black scraps. Black alone isn't to blame, as the black cottons in there are still nice and black, and solid to the touch. The only time I've seen damage like this is in a very old quilt top. It was a rescued bow tie top, and the black lines in a plaid fabric would shatter if touched. I replaced those pieces by hand with vintage fabric. All the other fabrics seemed fine. Just the black lines. Someone said that factors in the black dye are probably to blame, and that sounds right to me.
If you could touch the black in this picture, tiny splits in the fabric would occur right under your finger. You wouldn't even need to poke at it, just touch it. I am quite sure that the black poly ISN'T the only poly in this quilt. This was a group effort, the making of 9 patches to swap, and not every quilter uses 100% cotton. But I've found no other damage in the quilt top, just the black lattices. No splits, no seams opening, nothing fraying or pulling out or wearing out.

This old thing, probably my first(altho I don't remember for sure)Orphan Block quilt was made for the (above picture)boys Dad, my youngest son. That was 1985. Much of the fabric in this quilt was from other sources, some from used clothing, some new and alot of them were poly and poly blends. I'm absolutely certain of it. DD#2 had Strawberry Shortcake everything, and some of the white with red bumble bee fabric was used for sure. Believe it or not, this is the quilt that was on the bed the day after New Years when I was at his house! Still in use 26 yrs later and going strong. The backing was recycled(read 'really broke') from a rescued quilt, and is all poly. So... you don't have to rush to remove all poly type fabrics from your scraps, unless you want to. I'd be wary of solid black, or maybe all blacks in poly, but other fabrics I've used "way back then(when you don't know better) are still doing the job. On the record...I'm DONE with ALL poly fabrics, after hours and hours of repairing this quilt. Easier to eliminate it NOW, period! If you can't tell for sure, a hot iron brings an unusual smell from polyster when ironed. And if you are in a store, or yard sale, whatever, take a handful of the fabric and crumpled it hard in your hand. Cotton will hold the wrinkles, poly won't. Of course there is also the "burn" test. Poly melts when touched with a match, cotton burns and leaves ash. For some reason stores don't want you to test fabric that way, so please, crumple!!!

Color me blue....

2011-01-17T11:08:00.001-06:00

Many of you will remember this quilt. Made years ago from a 9 patch project at a quilting retreat. I used my 9 patches(plus Betsy donated hers to me)and my tub of black scraps, to make the quilt. I liked it, and I utility quilted it. A couple of years ago, GS Nathaniel adopted it for his own. He's not hard on quilts like some boys are. It came home with me the day after New Years to be washed.
And this is what washing revealed and what makes me blue on this January Monday. Actually, it would make me blue ANY day. Scrappy blacks and not knowing what could happen. This is what ALL the poly or poly blends are doing...shredding, or fracturing, if you prefer. In a few places they are gone completely except for the 1/4" seam and the row of stitching. On close inspection, the bad strips are outnumbered by the good cotton ones, so mending is my answer. I feel the quilt has many good years left, if I deal with the fractured ones.
This is how I am doing that. Look close and note the PRINT pieces where lattice used to be. I don't see well enough to cover the bad ones in plain black. So I'm using print strips. I lay them over the rotted area, and sew down that first 1/4" by hand. Then I finger crease the other 3 sides and flip the patch into place and pin it. Using the same stitch as binding, I sew those 3 sides down by hand. So far I've patched roughly 12-15 spots..and have a few more to go. I'm happy that the cotton outnumbered the poly in those black scraps. It's slow work, but I've been doing it in the evenings as I watch TV.

On a happier note, I've joined the 2011 Rainbow Scraps Challenge at Super Scrappy. A color is assigned for each of the 12 months of this year, and you make whatever you want from scraps of that color. January is blue, and I'm using some of my blue scraps to make "you guessed it" 9 patches. I've gotten a late start since I just joined yesterday, but I'm ok with that. It is the result of a blog hopping trip last evening....love what turns up when you blog hop!!!

Winter time....

2011-01-13T10:11:00.001-06:00

And we have snow, but then so does almost every state in the Union. It is beautiful, until it gets dirty. I've been a sewing fool this past 10 days. Didn't realize it was so long since I'd posted. I'll have something to show soon. I'm working on my pledge quilt for Q4L, and a child is waiting for it !
We had our family Christmas on New Years Day and DD#2's house. Here's some of my grandsons with their new flannel pillowcases, they liked them!! And money in a Christmas card worked for them as well...Gram did good!

L is getting to be such a big boy now. He will turn 3 next month. A new book, a storytime pause with Auntie, and the new animal that his book is about. I've forgotten the title but the book is by the author of "Hunger,Hunger Caterpiller", which was also a favorite of his Mom's. Hope everyone out East(and all across the country) is safe and warm while dealing with all that snow.

By the numbers....

2011-01-02T14:32:00.002-06:00

I can happily say "there are a lot less UFOs in Blogland! Back in October, 28 stitchers decided to challenge themselves to finishing up some "old business", aka UFOs.
28 of us stitched and stuffed and cut and ripped, working against the clock and the calendar. By January 1, 2011, there were 81 less UFOs in our closets, drawers and bins. And 46 additional projects got finished up as well! That gives the NYE UFO Countdown Challenge stitchers a grand total of 127 finished projects!! That makes Finn very happy! Every finish is a victory, and is such a good feeling when you can cross it OFF your "to do" list. I'm marching(or limping) forward into 2011 with Myra and her challenge to complete more projects half finished. I hope those of you who still have "miles to go before you sleep" find the mojo, or whatever it is, to keep 'keepin' on' with old projects. Hugs and thanks for the memories of another successful NYE UFO Challenge!

Happy 2011 Everyone!!!

2011-01-01T08:42:00.000-06:00

Today is our family gathering to celebrate the season. We got 'snowed out' last Saturday but the weather is co-operating today. You'll have to excuse me until later this evening and then I will be back and have the totals of UFOs finished and goals met for our NYE UFO Countdown Challenge. Until...cheer for the University of WI in today's Rose Bowl game!!!!

Let's strip.....

2010-12-31T11:53:00.002-06:00

on this last day of 2010! Sooo much emphasis on "old", it's making me tired! How about something NEW? A sneak peek...something new to take into 2011. Are you ready??? First of all...you need strips!! Any size, color of length. Choose a size to begin with, as you can see my bin holds 2" strips. Pressing as you go is optional, but often gives you a better "join up". Let's join!
Joining is EASY, joining is FUN! You can use the now famous "connector corner"ala Country Threads or just stitch straight across. The sew'n'flip' join yields bonus triangles, if that appeals to you. At the joining spot, you could stick in a HST of the correct size, or an hourglass or even just a square. It adds visual interest to the top, and is kind of fun. Not to mention you can use spare parts!! See how easy joining is? The length you create is up to you. Choose an approximate length to make your strippy quilt and GO TO WORK. You can make ONE long continous strip, or many of about the length you're aiming for. I usually make many and today I'm using 72" as my length. When you have two(the right length) join them up by matching the upper corner and sewing down the whole length. Now wasn't that easy???
You just keeping adding to the "whole" as strippy lengths are created. One important tip is this...ALTERNATE ENDS as you add strippy lengths. If you don't you'll have a lovely curving mess before long. It's not hard, when you reach the bottom of the section, reach over to the opposite side of that section(which is also at the bottom) and flip it over to be the top for the next "join".

That's how its done. It's fast, easy and ever so easy to press. Even the quilting is easy. I zoom down the ditch every so many rows, depending on what width my strips are. The quilt shown here, I finished in the UFO challenge and it went home with my DSIL for Christmas. I used 3.5" strips in this one. The strips truly can be what you want them to be, width wise. I have also alternated widths within one strippy top. No reason you can't use some 1.5", 2", 2.5" and so forth. You just keep each strip row all of one size or another. When you join it to the one before, the width makes no difference at all. I hope you will give this a try. It gobbles up strips cut from fabric we are tired of, lets you use unpopular colors of thread to sew with, and makes donation quilts really fast. Just make sure you've got some brights and/or happy fabrics in there! Hugs for all, Finn

here I am.....

2010-12-30T17:56:00.001-06:00

not quite missing in action, but absent for a few days. Hope everyone had a lovely holiday and is ready for the calendar to change again, after tomorrow. Probably the best explaination for my absence, is "I'm tired". I'm certain I'm not alone in that feeling. I'm tired of the snow, the cold, the season, all of it. And I'm tired of being a good quilter and working on what I SHOULD. I'll be fine again in a few days when I can pick and choose what UFO or project I "pull" for that days sewing. I gave myself a little break over Christmas to combine left over Mickey Mouse squares with a pile of scrappy 4 patches. It's 40" square now, and I will be adding a 4.5" border, bringing it up to 48". It's for donation.
And then last evening I pulled a rubbermaid of these red/white 4 patches and turned them into 16 patches. Got all that done last night. This a.m. I joined them into 6 rows of 6 blocks each. It's about 48" square and I'm not sure I will add borders. I may just quilt it, as is. I'm liking it's simplicity. It has the feel of the old Purina Feed signs that used to be painted on barns in rural WI. No frills, just big red/white checkboard squares and the Purina logo.

And lest you think there is NO peace in my Valley, I give you a glimpse into a typical days activity. Ebby snoozes here and there, through the house and all through the day. She's a sleepytime gal in this 9th year. Fat, sassy and full of bounce when she chooses. She occupies a footstool next to my computer chair, and when she chooses, just lately with encouragement, she has started jumping up on the computer desk and checking everything out for herself! And it only took 4 years!
Tomorrow is New Years Eve, and as the clock ticks down to midnight, our NYE UFO Countdown for 2010 will come to an end. We've done really well in meeting our individual goals and I'm so proud of ALL of us!! If you've got any steam left(and I sure don't)keep on keeping on!! I'm sure there will be UFOs carried over into the New Year, and some of us have jumped on board with Myra's PhD challenge. I'm looking forward to just "doing it"!! I'd love to end 2011 with NO UFOs at all...wouldn't that be awesome???

Stockings hung by the chimney with care ?

2010-12-20T14:29:00.001-06:00

no...not anymore, they hang at other homes now. But I do have a pile of quilt tops on the back of the couch...LOL There are 8 in this pile, and I plan to have them machine quilted, bound and gone(in the not too distant future!).
There is a little Christmas in my kitchen *VBS* I hung a darling little quilt from my dear friend Julie, over the sink this year. Normally I have a clock on this wall. In October I decided to put a Halloween quilt there, and am trying to keep it going all next year, with a month or seasonal appropiate quilt.
Not too far away, lives the gingerbread man potholder from Julie. He came calling the year I gave away the Flat Santas...do you remember?? I hung him on the pushpin for the picture.

And last, but not least, I have a FINISH!Not a big one, but a finish.It's a UFO, begun last Christmas, with only 1 block sewn and parts cut. I didn't love it, which partly explains it's smallish size( about 32" square). I like the color combination , but not the block pattern. It does makes a nice table topper and probably can stay out until late winter.
In the sewing dept. I'm up to my elbows in pillowcases, can you say "boring"?? And I am getting some backings made for the tops on the couch. I've measured each, written it down and pinned it to the top. Makes the backings and batt cut much easier. I am confessing that making a back is my least favorite part of the process. Onward....

Sliding towards January....

2010-12-16T11:16:00.001-06:00

and choosing what I will finish in the early part of 2011. Decisions are really, really hard for me. Apparently that's partly the nature of being a Libra. One thing I've loved about MY challenge is that I could choose to NOT choose which UFOs got finished until I chose to work on them. That's not the case at Myra's challenge. She's coaxing(mostly me)to "step up" and commit to what I'm going to do....darn! Well, I'm getting there. This elderly hand pieced bow tie has been chosen as #3.
And I'm providing a closeup of those lovely feed sack and vintage fabrics for you vintage fabric lovers!
I've also chosen this ancient Birds In Air. It dates all the way back to the late 1980's and early 1990's. It will become a quilt before the end of June, 2011.

Another oldie from the early to mid 2000s, Aunt Gracie's Stars is #5. It's such a simple quilt, I'm not really sure why I haven't finished it. Probably something else(like scraps and orphan blocks) was more interesting! Soooo...Ded. 16th, how are ALL of YOU doing on your goals? Many have met their New Years Eve UFO Countdown Challenge goals...how about you????

And now for a commercial message....

2010-12-14T09:50:00.002-06:00

We're rolling merrily along with the New Years Eve Countdown UFO Challenge. And while it's wonderful, marvelous and all that jazz, I'll still have UFOs on January 1st. How about you?? Want to keep the mojo going and finish up more??? I do!!!!
And here's just the place to do it!!! Our pal Myra, is hosting her PhD(projects half done)Challenge again this year. Hers runs a bit longer than mine(which is GOOD) and I have jumped on board(my first time) and hope to get at least 6 more finished up by the end of June. If having less PhDs or UFOs or WIPs appeals to you...pop over and join Myra and so far 20 more of us in this new challenge!

A blizzard and a finish...

2010-12-13T10:54:00.001-06:00

We have 20" of fresh cold snow since Friday night, but that's another story. I'd rather talk about another UFO finished up!!! I machine quilted this donation size strippy last week, and got the binding finished up over the weekend.
It was a great time to be under a quilt with 35-40 mph winds whipping snow all about. I found this 2 yd piece of dragonfly fabric in my stash and used up all but 3 2.5" strips of it! Hurray for 2 yards used!
Last time you saw this it was a pile of blocks. I made the dozen or so I still needed and got it together into another Kitchen Sink ala Gypsy Quilter. I'm attempting to use up some of the blacks/ bright. I have alot of FQs in that combination, a bright print on a black background. There are less now. The polka dot border is a Jan Mullen fabric and seemed perfect for border and binding. Still need a backing.

Off and on all week, I played with Orphan blocks. There are at least 7 quilts started using them, and I made progress on all of them. And I gave myself some playtime with odds and ends. Having Tonya's book kick off on the 7th, stimulated me to think about IMPROV...not something I think about much. It probably happens automatically when working on Orphan Quilts, but this time I took a bin of scrap, odds and ends and weird bits. I tried not to think too much, but sew them together where they seem to fit. It's falling in to the "ok" but not sure about it category. I'm think that the part rows of little 4 patches is making it look to "divided"...what do you think?

Making Christmas cookies....

2010-12-12T11:33:00.001-06:00

At almost 3, cookie making has become a favorite time for Levi! Having Auntie there to help makes it a celebration...can't you almost smell those still warm Peanut Blossom cookies, all gooey with melting chocolate stars??
Close inspection is a requirement...hmmmmm? Could that ONE be damaged??
What do you mean? You think I LICKED that cookie?? Mom....how could you think that? What chocolate on my chin???

And little brother AJ, just past 6 months, says..."hmmmm, no cookies down HERE, guess I'll eat my blanket". ho ho ho....

Celebrating Tonya's accomplishments....

2010-12-07T11:49:00.000-06:00

Three cheers for Tonya, and her new book hitting the stores today! I am NOT one of Tonya's star pupils..like Quiltmaking 101, I failed the classes. I gave letters "a shot" back in 2006 when she taught and pieced "Noel". Let's just say I had more success with wonky houses the following year. I've never made a quilt from them, and they lie in the orphan bin.
With encouragement from Tonya, back then, I bit my lip and pieced mis-cut size plaid samples together in to this little top. I didn't care for it much until I added borders and quilted it. Need to get a picture of that.
My attempts at "letters" stand at 3. Picasa isn't letting me have the Halloween attempt, but this collage is from my first attempt 11/06 and my last attempt in 2007. Of the three attempts, I like the scrappy ones the best. They are also in the orphan bin. Maybe some day they will appear in one of my Orphan Train quilts. That's one class I didn't fail..making Orphan Train quilts. Tonya liked those.

And last, altho I haven't made a quilt from Tonya's teachings, I do have a Tonya quilt which I am proud to own...it arrived back at the time of another eye surgery, from Cairo, Egypt...awesome!! Congratulations on your new book Tonya, I know it was lots and lots of work. I'm confident it will be successful and you deserve a ton of gratitude and thanks for all the time and effort you have given us blogging gals! *VBS* Hat's off to you!!!

A Finn-ish....

2010-12-05T11:26:00.001-06:00

And another UFO bites the dust! Or adds to the thread litter in my house *VBS*
The Pinks string top is from about(??) 3 years ago. I remember starting it, and remember putting the blocks together the size needed for Wrap Them In Love. I didn't like the results of my string piecing, and tucked it into a box of finished tops. But I pulled it out, used it to practice "how to quilt a string quilt" and now it's finished. And it is UFO#4 towards meeting my challenge goal! And THAT brings me to a topic I may have forgotten to RE-discuss with 2010 NYE UFO Countdown Challenge. I stated it loud and clear in the 2008 challenge, and I think I repeated it in 2009. And maybe over looked repeating it this year. The challenge is about FINISHING ANYTHING that you consider a UFO. It doesn't even have to be quilting. Other forms of handwork(knitting, embroidery, cross stitch, tole painting, crocheting)are just fine... it matters NOT. It doesn't have to be BIG, it can small. It doesn't have to be an ELDERLY UFO. Once you begin anything, it's a UFO with the first few seconds *VBS* The challengee gets to choose, is free to change her mind and jump to a different UFO, or have all her chosen ones be started and finished during the weeks of the challenge. MY challenge(and I know it differs from others) is as OPEN ENDED as it can be and still have a middle! I suppose what I'm saying is that it is as personal as it gets. You really aren't trying to please or answer to anyone but YOURSELF. There is NO failure in this challenge...any finish, every finish is a victory! OK putting the soap box away again!

And just so you don't think I only WORK on quilts, todays play time. I'm using the bonus triangles from Pineapple Blossom blocks(and a few from Boxy Squares(another UFO) to make these little Shoo Fly blocks. I've sized the HSTs to 2" and pulled scraps from the 2" bin. I have NO plan in mind for the blocks I'm making. As usual, I figure it out as I go, and that's the fun part! Happy Sunday Stitching!! Go Badgers!

Making it happen....

2010-12-03T09:48:00.005-06:00

Finn style. If I had never started blogging, I probably would never have given a thought to what my "style" might be. Blogging has changed that. I do HAVE a style, and I suspect you do too. If we speak of "leaders and enders", we probably think of Bonnie, at Quiltville. If we say "wonky" our heads pop right over to Tonya, at Lazy Gal Quilting. Now if you think of Finn, you might think scraps, or you might think "orphans". Actually both would be correct. As play time today, I picked this unlikely candidate. And it's OLD(upps, ELDERLY). It began life as leftover 3.5" 9 patches from a Tina Gravetts workshop. They didn't make the "cut" and went into the orphan bin. That was about 1990. Some years later I added strips, thinking "do" a log cabin from them, but wasn't crazy about those either. Back into the bin they all went..12 log cabins with 9 patch centers. Somwhere since then, I put the 12 together and added the yellow. Still nothing..back to the bin. The little top measured 31" X 40" at that point.
And then last evening I spied a section of "cut off extra" from a strippy top. It had been made of 2.5" strips. I had made the top too long for the width, so I chopped off the extra. Part got used for something, but I had 21"(w) X 32"(L)left. Hmmmm? A light bulb moment...cut into sections and attach as the next row on poor 9 patch/log cabin. And I did!! I needed 4 cuts-4.5"(sides) and 4 cuts at 3.5"(top and bottom). That happened at playtime this morning *VBS*

With great pride I can report...this is ALL that's left of that cut off strippy section...good job Finn!

Victory Celebrations are in order...

2010-12-02T13:08:00.001-06:00

this morning, and a HUGE bouquet of Queen Anne's Lace for Michele,With Heart and Hands. She has completed her 10 chosen UFOs and a whole bunch more! Michele has been playing in our New Years Eve UFO Countdown Challenge. Her chosen number of UFOs to finish was 10...which really shocked some of us. Quite the storm of additinal challenges rose up out of that number 10! At last count, I believe, 13 additional quilts will be made to benefit organizations of the makers choosing!! Clare couldn't resist Michele's goal, and jumped in with 9 projects promised, but on a different timeline...LOL. I'm so very proud of all your hard work Michele, and I know most of it is for donation...awesome!!
And we need additional bouquets of flowers for Julie, Barn Quilter, and Roz, of Counterpane. Julie has met her goal of 3 UFO's and finished an additional 8 small quilts for gifts. If I'm not mistaken, I don't think she's done yet...LOL. Roz met her goal of 1 UFO finish this week, and probably will continue to finish up more! Way to go gals! Everyone's a winner!!!
As for me, my play time this morning needs a change, so I pulled out the container with 6.5" log cabin blocks. I got 14 more sewed up and trimmed. Now I will put them neatly back in their container and put them away til next time. I am happy to find this many weeks into my "return mojo high", that I feel the same drive and desire to have this old stuff done. I've hung in there pretty well in the "no new starts" department and with some success behind me, maybe I can ride it out. I was sorely tempted to take on Bonnie's new Mystery, and even pull fabric for it, but talked myself out of starting, and quietly put the fabric away again. I think there's hope for me yet...LOL

Goodie, goodie goodies...!

2010-12-01T10:01:00.003-06:00

Like most of us quilting bloggers, I blog hop *VBS* A couple of weeks ago I followed a link to a delightful blog that was new to me, Quilting by Dawn. As it happens, she had decided to have a "give-away". The prize was to be two of her wonderful potholders. So, of course, I entered. I rarely win, but it was my lucky day! I was delighted and happily awaited the arrival of these cute, slip over the handle potholders!
Imagine my surprise, when instead of a mailing envelope, I found a big box in my mail slot! Excitement mounts as one cuts open a package of goodies from another quilter!! I was more than astonished at what I found inside *S*S*S*S*S*S*S*!!

These are my new goodies from Dawn. The wonderful potholders as expected, but also a neat treat of chocolate(yummy!) a darling needlecase that Dawn made, and a beautiful bundle of homespun fabrics. They are just perfect for this time of year, and I hope I can find a "November" type wall hanging to make from them. It feels like Christmas came early this year!! Thank you soooo much Dawn, it was a really GOOD goodie package!! Take a minute and pop over and say "hi" to Dawn, she has some really neat things to share with you too *VBS*

Do you see what I see?

2010-11-29T10:15:00.001-06:00

It'a a big package of pillowcase seed. Not quite enough for the harvest I need, but it's a start. Time to get busy on those!! A marathon "cut and stack" will get me started *VBS*
A small X-tra finish to share, 3 more potholders for small gifts. The 9 patch fronts are Orphan blocks, with border added. These 3, plus the 12 that DD#1 took to MI, have Christmas backing and binding. I've turned that first one over for you to see.

One more UFO bites the dust here in the Valley, fairly old by my standard of finishing things. I cut pieces for it the first year Bonnie of Quiltville, shared her Pineapple Blossoms quilt. I cut for and made the first one with Christmas fabric, 2006, I think. This one is table topper size and uses some of the left over reds from the first one. It's not big, or glamorous, but I'm glad it's finished and I'm counting it as a NYE UFO Challenge finish!! Number 3 for me!

I've been working on the railroad...

2010-11-27T12:11:00.002-06:00

but not quite 'all the live long day' *VBS* I confess to having taken some play time with orphan blocks. Yes, the UFOs are still on the front burner, but play is good!
I have both of these going at the same time, using orphan blocks and parts from Em's box. It's interesting with orphan blocks quilts, that while you can put "everything" in any one of them, sometimes they grow towards "flavor intense". I could tell almost immediately that these two were going to be opposite of each other. I tend to favor the brighter one,but since the other wants to be "that way", I will oblige but keep using reds. Thanksgiving was nice, and I enjoyed the company of my kids and their spouses. With football in the background, it was lively around here and the food was good. The weather co-operated and no one had travel difficulty. I was tired yesterday, and a nap was needed, but I am climbing back up to speed today...time to get busy!

And since the high loft batt arrived via Turkey transport, I can now turn these 20 blocks into a snuggle quilt. It will be a Christmas gift, and is one of my 5 UFOs to finish. Catch up with you later!

Tuesday's treasure....

2010-11-23T17:02:00.001-06:00

and this lovely bouquet of flowers is for our pal Sara, of Sara's Scraps. Sara has earned my admiration and deep respect. She was one of the gals who plugged away and accomplished her goal last year in the UFO Challenge. She got so much done, she vowed to carry on through the new year.I, of course, said I would too...but I fell flat on my face, and slunk away in shame to mumble about those UFOs instead of attacking them. Well, Sara carried on and on and on, and now she has finished the 5 UFO projects chosen for this year challenge. AND...we are still a couple of days short of it being just ONE month of challenge! You gals are firecrackers this year....wooo hooo!! Today the congratulations are all for Sara, who has earned some play time! Way to go Sara!! I'm so proud of you!! Hugs for all!

Monday's Mishmash....

2010-11-22T17:15:00.001-06:00

Being grandchild #15 doesn't seem to bother AJ, he's right at home on the Sunny Side Up quilt from Grandma. That boy always seems to have a smile *VBS*
And speaking of Sunshine...the old Finnster is giving a HUGE bouquet of SUNflowers to our sunny stitcher Carol! We are 3 dsys short of ONE month into the NYE UFO Countdown Challenge, and Carol has finished ALL of her 10(yes TEN) chosen projects!!! I think that deserves a huge round of applause and a big bouquet of sunflowers...way to go Carol!
Aren't pictures great? And aren't digital cameras and photo sharing just the best? These are mine...my riches, my blessings. I can count my blessing with every hair on their heads, every freckle on their noses and every hug and kiss I get from them. This is last Thanksgiving Day. It was truly a blessing to have all 5 of my children together with their spouses and most of the grandkids. We were missing a few of course, but 3 granddaughters were there. It's the closest I've come to having them ALL together in one room....well, sort of in one room...LOL. It's hard to keep the little ones from dashing away. This year the group will be much smaller, 2 offspring, their partners and no grandchildren. Much smaller indeed.

And as we come to the end of the day, November 22, 2010, I leave you with a heartfelt wish for peace in your particular valley, and a sunny tomorrow.

In the pink.....

2010-11-19T14:36:00.001-06:00

and sitting pretty, as the saying goes *VBS* Feeling much better today, still some arm stiffness, but so much better.
Best of all is that I can report and add UFO #3 (which is my 2nd finish!) to my NYE UFO Challenge list! It took all of my 'stick-to-it', but I finished up the binding around 9 last evening...and was glad to be done! Here's a peek at one corner and part of the backing. Four chunks of flannel got used to make the backing, and I'm glad it's gone! It's been in my flannel stash way too long!

Another look at most of the width and the other end of the backing. This one is a Christmas gift(family member) and is about 60" X 80". A little big for a snuggle quilt,but there is plenty to tuck under. I'm back to machine quilting another that I pinned on Monday or Tuesday, again, a smaller one. Looks like I'm leaving those two big ones for last.
The challenge is going well, with lots of you reporting finishes!! It's awesome to think about how many UFOs we could finish up in such a brief period of time. If you haven't noticed we got a new player yesterday *VBS* Yup, Sue, From the Magpie's Nest, decided she could finish a couple of things on her list, and jumped in with a goal of 4. There are 5 weeks plus left in the challenge, I'm sure we can all meet our goals and start next year with less baggage!

Some days.....

2010-11-18T18:50:00.000-06:00

you just gotta sit on it!!! And since this was such a day, I did. I had to see my Family practice Dr. yesterday for a small ear problem. Since I was there(and I'm not there often) they thought my flu shot was a good idea. And so they did it. I don't usually have a problem with those, but this one kind of sat me on my bottom! Didn't want to spend the day in bed, so I sewed down binding on UFO # 3. Yes, #3 is nearing completion ahead of #2. Some challenges are like that! That string top is still giving me grief, but that's another story...LOL

A most excellent day...

2010-11-15T17:30:00.000-06:00

Despite the gray and gloomy weather, it was a most satifactory day. I managed to get some of the household chores done,and spent some time sewing on another elderly UFO. I cut enough additional triangles to bring the count up to the 68 HSTs needed, and have them all sewn into pairs.
Best of all, I tackled the HUGE roll of 90" Warm and Natural batting and got batting measured and cut for 7(yes, 7) tops!! Got two of them pinned and am ready to put a few stitches in the first one.
A couple of the tops I cut batting for still need another row of blocks or borders attached, but I allowed for that in my cutting. I came across the W&N all cotton, on sale for half price at JoAnn Fabrics, online only. I ordered the 90" roll which held 40 yds. Product price $158- tax added bringing it up to $166. Shipping was free with one of their coupons. I have the invoice here in front of me. I usually make notations of how many quilts I get from such an investment. Today I cut for 2 that will be 90" X 90", 1 that is 72" X 90", two smaller ones I got from one 38" WOF, and 2 that are in the 60" X 80" range. It looks like I have about half the roll left *VBS* A very good day, I'd say!

No jingling bells to mark the passage..

2010-11-14T10:37:00.001-06:00

but through the darkness, Ms Winter made her way into the WI countryside Friday night. I woke at 4:30 a.m. to howling winds and sleet hitting my windows. The ground has not yet frozen to rock hardness, and it's doubtful this snow will last. Not impossible, if enough follows it. We have had years were the ground wasn't frozen under the snow. Not often, but it does happen.
The little sentinel tree in my neighbors yard serves as a season marker for me. Gone are the golden tones of autumn. We are into the gray, drab and cold time now. Luckily I have all that I need and can hunker down and sew *VBS* I finished up the last block for the North Wind quilt top I showed on Thurs, and Friday. Not as quickly as I had hoped, but at least the 20 blocks are done now. I get a break to play! And play is something I'm good at *VBS*
Not so good is realizing I have managed to have no less than THREE(3, yes, 3) adult style flannel quilts all started and nothing finished! These Jacks over Six are 9.5" blocks and cut from scraps, mostly trimmings from backs. I really like this block and it makes a great on-going project to piece from scraps. Just slightly harder than a straight 9 patch, it works up fast from small pieces.

And then there is this one. I remember starting it back about the time I did the homespun scraps into that little Fence Rail. This kind of row quilt is perfect for using up almost every thing, trimmings, odd blocks, HSTs...they all find a home in one row or another. Simply piece the rows, left to right, whatever width you want. You can vary the height of the rows with no ill effect. This top will have 6.5", 10" and maybe even a 12" high row. It might have one or two 4.5" or less.
So, this is all fine and good....the snow, the flannel scraps, time to sew...right? Well, I'm discovering(altho it's been a slow discovery) that it's NOT all fine and good. As I've cleaned and re-organized my sewing life, I now realize it's way out of control! I'm not saying I need to finish each thing I start, in order of starting, but I've GOT to STOP jumping into every brainstorm I get!!!
Me, myself and I argued all day yesterday, because I'm avoiding the pressing of the seams in the string quilt top I just finished up. And that's true for at least one more of the UFOs on my Focus List.
Years ago I was smart(or disciplined) enough to press as I went. Somehow I got away from that. And altho I hate what you have to do when you have a whole quilt top to press out, and have sworn NEVER to do it again, I do. I think that has a direct bearing on why I have so many UFOs.
I'm finding myself in a place where I really WANT to finish up the older beguns, except of course I want to finish them ALL up and RIGHT NOW!! I'm in a struggle to keep focus on the ones I(sort of) have chosen for this challenge...wish me luck!!

The rest of the story....

2010-11-12T10:55:00.001-06:00

..or at least an explaination. You probably wondered why it would take so many hours to have 11 blocks finished, when there were 7 finished ones in the container, right? Well, that's the rest of the story, you see.
First I have to remind you, I'm slow(in movements). Secondly, I only have sight in one eye, the other eye functions as backup but only sees a shadowy Big E. If I shut that eye, the good one loses focus faster, so I try to keep both eyes open. That helps,but I need to blink and re-focus fairly often. And third, two of the finished blocks had the big triangles sewn in reverse positions...LOL..darn those bias edges! Jack the ripper time on those!!
In overcoming my hang-ups, about this block, I worked slower, pinned more, and lay the block pieces out on the table next to my machine. I then picked them up in order, sewed them, pressed and laid them back in place!
That's why it took much of the day to get to 11 finished and 9 more prepped! It's my story, and I'm sticking to it!
I have 4 more blocks in progress this morning, and hope to finish all 9 by the end of the day. I wanted to ask those of you who have done the UFO Challenge in years past, if you'd take a minute and pop over to one of the new or newer challengees and say "hi", some are fairly new to blogging and it's nice to have a visit from someone *VBS*

Eleven-Eleven...

2010-11-11T16:04:00.001-06:00

Remembering all those who serve, who protect and defend and those who serve by standing watch. My most sincere thank you to all of our wonderful miltary, past and present.
I showed this picture last year for the UFO challenge. It's one of many I didn't get around to for one reason or another. Nor have I gotten around "to it" until today. I have my reasons, but today I struggled with them, over came them and moved onward towards completion.
I began sewing with my mug of coffee before 7 this a.m. There were 7 finished blocks in the container at that time. There are now 11 completed and 9 more prepped for sizing and sewing together. What took the longest was tracking down enough light colored flannels to do that background!! On #20 I was really diggin' and scratching to see what I could use. It's that big triangle, cut at 9", that causes the problems. Most of my flannel is in FQ form. The pattern is called North Wind(my source) altho I think it's also called Corn and Bean and a few other things. It was in a magazine several years back. I think I liked the big bold blocks best of all. I managed not to notice how much bias you are handling...ya. The pattern sets it as a 12 block quilt with borders. But that's only 36" X 48" before borders...kinda skimpy! So I'm taking it up to 48" X 60" and then will add about a 6" border, not sure if it will be all one fabric or not. Might do a 2" and then a 4". It's a UFO that I'd really like to give as a Christmas present, but it's NOT one of my FOCUS FIVE projects...just so you know how off target I get..LOL I have finished ALL the blocks for the string quilt(UFO#2) and have them all joined up. Now I have hours of ironing ahead of me, pressing all those seams open. I hope I can get it pinned over the weekend.

And on this day of honoring those who serve, I chose my parents. Miles and Doris, married in 1935. The Depression not far behind them, the future not yet bright because of war clouds all about. They spent the early years of their marriage in northern WI, with Dad working pulp lumber. That slid over into working for the WPA under Pres. Roosevelt. By 1940, with war clouds still dark and looming, they moved to my home town of Chippewa Falls, WI where Dad trained to be a drill press operator. W.S. Darley Pump was making bilge pumps for our military carriers and submarines. It was a job, but it was also "war work". With the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Dad wanted to enlist. I was an infant at the time. My Mothers Dad(who also worked at Darley Pump), together with the Foreman, went to the draft board and got Dad deferred from military service. They did it without his knowledge. I do understand the how and why of it, but also understand it upset my father beyond what words could convey. I'm not sure he ever forgave them for that. Three of his 4 brothers enlisted and served until the war ended, as did my Mother's brothers. Mom worked in an 'munitions factory a few miles from our home. It had been Presto Cookware until the war. She was still working there when I began kindergarten in 1945. I believe Mom and Dad served their country although in a way that we don't always remember or acknowledge. I honor them, as well, on this Eleventh day of the Eleventh month.

Almost Wordless Wednesday....

2010-11-10T10:17:00.001-06:00

Altho the picture could speak for itself, I just want to say, it was one INTENSE sunrise this morning. Just barely enough light at 7:15 to capture this.
It changed quickly, as it usually does, bringing the promise of another sunny day. We are truly blessed here in my part of the world...Nov. 10th and I awoke to 53 degrees! Our normal high for this time of year is 46! It got up to 69 yesterday, warmer than many of the southern states...strange and amazing. Sounds like it's over though, rain mixed with snow forecast for tonight.

Just couldn't resist playing with some of the orphan blocks I got from Em of Em's Scrapbag. I'm off and running on a new Orphan Train quilt it seems. I seem to steer clear of using much white in my quilts, but it looks like this one will have a balanced amount of it. I'm curious to see what comes next, aren't you?

This and that on a Tuesday...

2010-11-09T11:32:00.002-06:00

Remember I mentioned back in Oct. that DGS L probably would be Curious George for Halloween? Well, Thomas the Train won out..gosh, he's getting so tall !
And I mentioned that Baby AJ would probably be wearing the Tigger costume? Nope, he's his own little pumpkin seed instead! He's 5 months now, and going strong. I got to see both boys at my surprise birthday party back on Oct. 9th...*VBS*
Once again Finn is "a glowin' and a goin'" with a lovely box of orphan blocks and spare parts from Em. Lots of really good stuff in this box!!! The Orphan Train thanks you and so do I...thanks again Em, I'm delighted to have new stuff to play with.

Had lunch with Betsy last week and came home with a few orphan blocks. She often has scraps, cuttings and strips for me and occasionally, orphans. I was pleased to get them, as well as a bag of selvedges.
The "situation" seems to have quieted down abit since Sunday, altho a couple more challengees have signed on, and one or two more donations quilts have been pledged. Today I'd love to direct you to pop over to the Magpie's Nest and see what Sue has to say about her recent experience with an ancient UFO. It's very insightful and well worth your time to read. Be sure and look at the blocks she pulled out for her 15 minutes of play...those are in her previous post, called The First Act of Avoidance. I had almost the same experience with Y2K siggy blocks back in October.

The situation is serious....

2010-11-07T13:11:00.003-06:00

and growing moment by moment. I feel like a ring announcer.."and in this corner we have Michele...". Well by now you probably ALL know what is happening here...right? No? Me either!
BUT...here's the latest scoop on the "situation"...Michele pledged 10 completed UFOs by New Years Eve. Clare decided to up the ante by saying she would finish her pile of quilts for Q4L(9) IF and WHEN Michele meets her deadline. I tempted Clare with a Q4L (stateside) IF she makes her goal.
This morning I got this letter from UFO challengee Carol: "Okay I now found out what Q4L are. Just to make this even more fun, if Michele finishes her challenge, Claire finishes her quilts, Finn finishes her Q4L I'll make and donate a Q4L to be given in Canada"
So I let both Michele and Clare know of this new information. And now, a upped ante from Yankee Quilter, Sio. And here's what she's offering...LOL I will "sweeten the post" and pledge one more Q4L if and when Michele...through Finn finishes.
And that's how the "situation" stands right now. I haven't heard back yet from Michele, but trust me, I will...LOL

Please.......

2010-11-07T08:04:00.001-06:00

come to my house and stitch with me?? Oh yes, and bring treats *VBS*
If you know me, you already know I can't possibly work straight through on something. I have to head off on a side road to somewhere. Yesterday was no exception...LOL I just HAD to make up this little 9" X 12" scrappy MAM quilt from tiny vintage scraps. This morning I have dug bigger scraps from the bin for borders and binding. It was fun to make!
And from the UFOs bin, I pulled this . All it needs is 4 patches on 2 more sides and then I could quilt it! So I made 2.5" 4 patches and have them sewn on...time for a backing.

And a message from Ms Ebby, be sure to change those clocks...don't want to be late for a nap, or a meal!

We got a situation......

2010-11-06T11:06:00.006-05:00

I just don't know what else to call it! And it's a humdinger of a situation. It involves our NYE UFO Challenge. Many of you know I've hosted this challenge the past 3 years, but this is a first. Let me explain...Michele,a long time friend(and an over achiever!) has pledged 10 projects. That's not unusual for Michele. Friend Carol, met Michele's challenge last year and is repeating it again this year with 10 projects! And we all know the time is shorter this year, only 2 months and 13 days from from when we started.
Recently Friend Clare caught up with our challenge and commented on Michele's lofty goals in an email. She also remarked,"Right - okay - deal.If Michelle manages to finish all those UFO's within the time scale, I promise I finish the Q4L quilts I've got piling up. Howzat!"
Having to add fuel to the fire, I suggested that Clare join us. And if she could finish the "pile" she has, I would make another quilt for Q4L here in the States. I just got this response back from Clare..." I have 6 requests, but 7 quilts (twins - very sad) plus one for Bumblebeans
Basics = 8. One top already done, or it may be 2. Put me down for 9
to cover it and the challenge starts WHEN AND ONLY WHEN Michelle
finishes her 10!"
Having a senior moment, plus the excitement of such a "situation", I'm not totally clear(in my head) if Clare is pledging to finish by NYE, or start once Michele accomplishes her goal. I'm sure she will be letting me know...LOL
And remember gals, I'm NOT the one putting pressure on you to have FINISHES...that lovely task is up to each of us, for ourselves!! Happy stitching everyone! Hugs for all!!******Clarification: Clare will hit her pile of Q4L as she stated, IF AND WHEN Michele completes her 10 challege pledged projects. AND then, if Clare completes hers, I've pledged another Q4L, to be given here in the States.

Speaking of UFOs....

2010-11-05T09:02:00.002-05:00

..and I do NOT mean MegaMind and his alien space craft, I'm adding a NEW element to our UFO challenge this year.
Chatting with some of you(via email)has confirmed that I'm not the only one who hopes to finish the pledged UFOs, but "extras". Over and above the "having way more than we can finish by NYE" extras. Remember I mentioned Julie had just accidently created two more UFOs while playing with bonus triangles? That's the sort of X-tras I'm adding to our challenge list. If you are doing additional projects, such as my 15-30 flannel pillowcases, but aren't counting them in your pledge, let me know! I'll be happy to list them under your name as "X-tras". *VBS* OK everybody, now get busy, 'cause you KNOW Michele will!!!!

I can't promise...

2010-11-04T10:37:00.000-05:00

that I will post every day. After 5 years, I don't have as much to share as I did in the beginning. But I'm making the effort to post more often!! This is todays mess! I love sewing early in the morning with my mug of coffee at my side. And although I'm hard at work on those string blocks(!!!) I need something else to piece. I'm not a quilter than can go "straight" through a project to the end. This morning, I'm making 4 patches. Needless to say, from scraps!
And working with scraps requires ironing! For this I've pulled out my old faithful GE travel iron. It's an oldie but goodie. It's stainless steel, small and light weight, but with great heat! It's also old enough to have a cloth cord. It doesn't "grab" the corners of quilt blocks like my regular iron does. I use this iron on the little portable ironing board laid across on Rubbermaid standing baskets thingy.

Here's yet another "begun" that I plan on finishing, but not necessarily as one of my 5 pledged projects. I think I've begun Gypsy Quilter Kitchen Sink in every possible flavor. For this one, I wanted to use up some primarly black FQs. I found the container held 15 blocks. I need 30 for a donation quilt. Soooo, I stitched the additional 15 yesterday while waiting for the Sears repair man. Now to get them ironed and joined up...! That's another container emptied!!! How's everyone doing on their current projects?

The decision is final....

2010-11-02T09:15:00.001-05:00

This is the 2nd UFO for this challenge. It's been hanging around about a year. I showed the picture last challenge, but never got around to it. The blocks finish at 8", right now it's 48" X 64". I'm going to make it double bed size for DS #2. Using the 8" size it will be 80" X 96". I need to piece quite a few more string blocks...LOL. Better get to it!

A new month begins...

2010-11-01T12:07:00.001-05:00

and November 1st, about 8 a.m. looks very different from last month. The sun is still very far to the north and sunlight to melt the frost is slow in coming. Beautiful sky this morning off in the south east, just had to capture it!

I met my self-imposed deadline! The last stitches were placed as The Amazing Race episode ended, and the village whistle blew to end trick-or-treating for this year. I had a grand total of 14 little monsters and spooks. One witch and one fairy princess, several ninja and a couple of homemade hobos...LOL And they all remembered to say "thank you", which I really appreciate.
I had wanted ONE finish in October to get me moving.I'm happy to have the Memory quilt ready to head to its new owners. I'm debating what UFO #2 will be. There are sooo many choices. One in particular I want to work on,but must find the bag of "parts". Another is a "MUST DO", and I'm not quite ready to tackle that one yet. I'm not a person who can choose what I will finish and what will wait. That requires discipline, and I don't have much. I'm happy, however, to share that my "mojo hunt" has worked. I counted up yesterday and find I have EMPTIED 8 project containers. All of the contents are now tops. None of them are quilted, but it's nice to have LESS projects in bags or Rubbermaids sitting around. And one flimsey, the blue/gray memory top is off its hanger,quilted, bound and finished!
I think I've only started ONE new quilt since posting again. While cutting scraps, and I do that from day to day, I realized I hadn't made a bowtie block(or top)in over a year. Time to fix that!! Thus is born a new container holding both blocks and a growing pile of "parts". Julie was telling me(in an email)last night how two small quilts resulted from a pile of "bonus" triangles...LOL. I can soooo identify!! But she's at work on those UFOs today, I'm sure, and so am I! How about you???

Time to STOP.....

2010-10-30T10:22:00.002-05:00

myself from making(or thinking I need to make) a quilt everytime I see a block I like!!!!!!!!!! Yes, for me that is usually the "trigger" that sends me to the scrapbag or stash. This interesting little tidbit has come to my attention as I continue to organize and pull together my UFOs. Darned if I don't start a quilt, or several versions of the same quilt, when a block intrigues me. Case in point: this sample made after I saw it at a quilt show. Tried it in cowboy fabric, only did two.
Jumped over to the Christmas fabric and began to cut for this one in couch size. I pulled these pieces out on Thursday to "see" what needed doing. Decided it would be just fine as a table topper instead! Made 9 blocks, have borders and binding cut, and the scraps went into the appropiate containers! I'm not crazy about it, and wonder why the block ever appealed to me?? The blocks are 8.5" and with 4.5" borders, it will be 32" square.
I do think it has possibilities set on point,but my background fabric is all words and very directional. Gotta learn to STOP myself from these headlong plunges!

And last, but not least, another headlong plunge into several quilts, ala Pineapple Blossoms from Quiltville. Made one up in Christmas fabric several years ago, scrappy of course, and that was fuel enough to spin me off into THREE more "beguns". This one will be finished up as a table topper as well. About 36" square without borders, have to think about those. A decision will be made about "begun #2" and the scrappy, long term "begun #3" will stay as a project. I've come to realize I like having long term projects. I can pull out the scrappy hourglass container,etc, make as many as I like and put the container back. When there are enough, it can become a quilt. Not everyones cup of tea, but it works for me! UFO#1 is in the binding stage and I hope to have it finished before Nov. 1st. Right now, that's my focus. How are the UFO's coming for you???

The first UFO project...

2010-10-26T09:51:00.002-05:00

proceeded by a "timely" commercial. I love the advertising from this period in America's history. American, rising to the challenge, hanging in there, waiting for things to get better, coping with the shortages. These days our economic landscape has similar shadows for many. I'm a huge fan of "Project Runway", and in Tim Gunn's best words..."Make it work"!! Many times with UFOs, you have to stretch yourself to make it work. Today I'm sharing the first project of my challenge to finish.

Yes, this is it. Not a big deal, I know. It's a memory quilt, made from shirts of a friends DH. The person who collected the shirts and sent them was slow in doing so. And I was slower yet in getting started. Jump to the end of story. The wife died unexpectedly(massive and fatal heart attack while living alone)and a memory quilt never arrived. Unsure of what to do,it sat here. It was on my list last year and didn't get finished. That is changing. It needs pinning, quilting and binding and will then travel to MI to one of the adult children of these friends. Altho it's a small project compared to some, I need a "FINISH" in October. Gotta get one under my belt! How about you?

The nitty-gritty about the UFO Challenge....

2010-10-25T11:43:00.003-05:00

For anyone who wants to know, and to remind us veterns. The New Years Eve UFO Countdown is in it's 3rd year. We accomplished alot collectively by playing along with this challenge. The purpose is to try and clear the decks of some older(or newer)projects before we begin our next year of making hand crafts. I keep track and provide the updates and final tallies. What you chose, the number, the craft, it's all up to you. No one will check up on you..no quilt police. ALL hand crafts that need to be finished up are welcome. There are NO rewards or prizes other than the wonderful satisfaction of having it "done". As many say, "Done is better than perfect"! We are here to cheer each other on. It's a great chance to meet new quilters or greet new blogging friends. I'm merely the 'reporter' and stat keeper. You can post your choices and/or your finishes any way you choose.When you have a finish, either tell me in a comment or shoot me an email.
Given that we are starting later than the other years, give careful thought to how many projects you choose to pledge. You can always do MORE than your chosen number. Or it can be reduced down if you want or need that. The first year I chose 5 and finished 15. I didn't have BIG ones, and that makes a difference. This year I am choosing 5 again, and I'm a bit concerned, as I have one really BIG one. I also am planning on flannel pillowcases for each grandchild...read 15! And if time permits, one for each of my kids and their spouses. I'm not figuring those into my tally, but will give it my best shot at getting everything done! So, that's pretty much it. The logo is the the one from last year, and I'm feeling really "senior" since I can't remember who made it for us. Feel free to right click it and use it. You can link it back here if you'd like. It's not required. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to email me. Oh yes, anyone can join us, it's open to everyone and it doesn't have to be on this particular day or week.

Amid the scraps....

2010-10-24T10:16:00.001-05:00

I found a quilt. And it's a quilt that "never would be", except for the scraps in a donation box. About a year ago I received a computer paper box of scraps and orphan blocks from a generous blogging friend. It may have been scraps from more than one quilter, but all in one box. Amongst them were these flannelish scraps that probably are brushed cotton. I'm not very familiar with that fabric, but these scraps are more than homespun but not quite flannel. Needless to say, they were pretty narrow and not very long. Just for the heck of it, I began sewing them together with no plan in mind. If a piece was too short, I simply added another scrap to it. There are some pretty odd angles in there...LOL. One scrap in particular wasn't "of" the family, being more a "calico" than anything else. It was warmer toned and brighter, but what the heck? I used it anyway. This little wall quilt is the result. Nearly all the scraps were used, barely a handful of odd bits are left. Not enough to go further for sure. And now the question is...does it need a border?
I'm thinking YES...probably black, and I have this nice scrap of black flannel(from the same box, I think). Opinions???
The Peppermint topper raised several comments and questions. In particular, the block. It's one that I saw at Making Scrap Quilts from Stash. Mary had used a jellyroll gift and this simple patch to make a neat quilt...easy peasy. A great suggestion from her was to alternate the turn on every other block to avoid seams lining up with each other. After I got going on this one, I remembered where I seen the block before....

In this quilt I call "Pumpkin Soup". It's a Thimbleberries design(from one of the books) by Lynette Jensen. She calls hers "Sticks and Stones". It's a great simple block and really works well with jellyrolls. Of course, it could be done in larger than 2.5" pieces for a quick donation quilt.
So far, there are 4, maybe 5, of us for the New Years Eve UFO Countdown Challenge. Any more takers?

Thursday Tidbits....

2010-10-21T20:23:00.001-05:00

What a difference a day makes...no rain, but lots of wind, and the mood of the landscrape is changed. Shades of November on an October day. No evidence left behind, Madame Wind removed all traces of those lovely leaves.
And for me, a new perspective...moonrise and sunset playing among the clouds across the street. Pure magic!!
A recent finish. I've hand quilted this Peppermint table square with perle cotton. Got it bound and ready for the holidays. I'm very pleased with the outcome.
And a look at the backing I chose, a splurge for me. Using a whole yard of a new Aunt Gracies reproduction fabric because it goes well with the top, and makes the quilt reversable.
Regarding last evenings post, I am DEFINITELY going to host another New Years Eve UFO Countdown! Several of you have indicated an interest in joining me, so consider it a "done deal". Put on your thinking cap and decide how many you hope to finish up. I'm asking for your "challenge" number again. We might be a small group this time, and we are definitely working in a shorter time span.
In 2008, we began on August 25th, giving us 4 months and 7 days. 72 of us pledged to finish 300 projects.
The count on January 1, 2009 was 256 finished projects...wow!!
Last year we began on September 19th, giving us 3 months,13 days. 32 of us pledged to finish 175 projects. January 1, 2010 found that 24 of the 32 finished 148 projects. The numbers don't really mean as much as the personal satification we each felt about our success.
For what ever reason on my part, we are getting a late start this year...BUT....we have 2 months and 10 days. Choose your goal accordingly.
I will be posting the Challenge on my sidebar as usual, and will add your finishes as you let me know of them. I'll post some additional details for any newcomers. Just let me know you are participating and I'll add you to the list, along with your goal number. Feel free to email me at Finn922000@yahoo.com with questions, amounts or concerns. Happy UFOing!

Progress report...

2010-10-20T17:24:00.000-05:00

But it's always good to start with a commercial,right? Here's some of that early autumn morning mist that hangs in the hollows til the sun chases it away. It seems to take certain weather conditions to produce it, and I find it a treat for the senses. Another of those elusive things we humans chase. Like rainbows, you can experience it and capture a picture, but you can't take it with you. I spent several hours this morning working on the "organizing" that has been happening here. It's a slow process, but I'm happy with the result. Oh, don't kid yourself, there are NO less UFOs than before, but at least all the bits, pieces and parts are being put where they belong. If I grab "that" container, I've got what I need to finish up an Aunt Gracies Friendship Star top. Somehow it seems to be helping me keep the mojo going!
This flimsy is one of my recent finishes. It's sat around and sat around because I've not been happy with it. Technically it's not big enough, and I don't like it well enough to keep making blocks...so? It's now together and it is what it is. It may get a border or it may not. The blocks are 10.5".
This one is much the same thing, not happy with it. Don't like it well enough to make many more of these. I could add one more row, having 2.5 of the needed 4 blocks finished. Just have to find some decent muslin(fun how we've quit using muslin for setting blocks). It's a maybe,or, it may be done.

This one is definitely DONE...not pressed as yet, but big enough at 56" X 64". Another of the MAM tops. They are fun to make, and I do love to play. That's pretty much what the MAM blocks are...playtime. The scraps in this one come from far and near. I know I have some from a few of you gals in it, and some of Jean's and Betsy's as well. Betsy gave me a small bag of trimming from flannel quilt backs when we had birthday lunch last week. I decided NOT to stick the bag with the "other stuff". I pressed the scraps out, cut what was cut-able, and began sewing up the rest. It gave me enough to finish the last 8 blocks for this top. I've decided I should make some comments of a helpful nature about making MAM blocks, since I've been at this for more than a decade. I'm going to post those over at the Orphan Train blog. Not today, but hopefully tomorrow. And I'm thinking about the UFO New Years Countdown again. It's about that time of year. If I start yet this week, we'll have just over 9 weeks til New Years, I believe. Probably better look at a calendar...LOL

Sixty five years....

2010-10-19T21:10:00.004-05:00

have slipped away since this first day of school picture was taken. My best friend Betty, another Smith but not related, and I, all set for school including the handkerchief pinned to our dresses. High Fashion ala 1945. It's that time of year again, birthday season, and I've just celebrated my 70th. Had a wonderful time on an autumn leaf tour via Train. Just a couple of hours between Osceola, WI and Marine on the St. Croix,MN, but lots of fun and very beautiful. I love trains! A party followed at my DD's house, a complete surprise to me, and so much fun! Got to hold baby AJ and get the run-around by big brother L. Beautiful weather and good food. I have great kids!
Ebby has also turned another year older, she's 9 this year(I think)...maybe 8. Her age at arrival was a bit up in the air. She's been here 4 years, and seems more relaxed with age. Believe it or not, this is what happens immediately AFTER having a pinch of her beloved catnip!! I snapped 3 pictures and her eyes didn't even open!! So much for catnip being a stimulant!
The colors of autumn are all around us, and my neighbors tree catches the first rays from the morning sun. These might be casual snaps from my little patio, but I find the beauty lies in simple things and the changing seasons. I'm finishing up my 6th year here in the Valley and will stay for at least one more. The new lease is signed.The Queen is in her castle, eating bread and honey *VBS*

I love the view out across the driveways, highway and into the farmland beyond. Every season has its own beauty and mood.
There is a shortage of quilt related pictures here lately, but I HAVE been sewing...A LOT!! What I haven't been doing is i.r.o.n.i.n.g.!! I hate the pressing(or ironing) out of blocks and tops. And, of course, one must do that! I've spent an hour or so at the iron this evening, and hope to have pictures tomorrow or the next day. I've finished up 3 more "project" tops and that feels good. Of course they are still flimsies, don't want to get too crazy all at once...LOL

On a Tuesday, in the Valley....

2010-09-28T14:51:00.001-05:00

you may receive a gift from the Universe. The possibility of a sunny day after a week of rain.A beautiful sunrise for sure.
Orphan block sorting has replaced "name that quilt and what part is this". I pulled out some orphans to become potholders and have been stacking the rest. Lots to work with here. The left pile is assorted blocks from several quilters, and the one on the right is from Susan, a WI quilter. I'm going to check Susan's closer,I think it might be enough for a small quilt all by itself.
The Chippewa gathering basket I purchased in North Dakota many years ago came in hand. It's fulfilling it's purpose, a gathering of orphan blocks and "beguns". I often use the "row" method when working with orphans, joining same size or height blocks to form the width of the quilt. And last but not least...

I have a small FINISH!! Culled from the wreckage of multitude of UFOs and Beguns, a lone pumpkin block, pieced eons ago at a quilt retreat in Northern MN. The directions were in an old issue of American Patchwork and Quilting. I used what I had with me. Looking back, it seemed like a good idea at the time...LOL. With my focus in the "now", the block now seems perfect for over my kitchen sink. I added a border, quilted it up quick, and it's now over the sink!! Score ONE for Finn this week! FYI...the orange fabric with the strange witches and little green fellows is one of my oldest Halloween prints. A poly blend from the 1980's ala Ben Franklin, and yes, I think that's the last of it!

What worked for me....

2010-09-26T13:41:00.003-05:00

Many of you know I was among the "missing" for several months this past summer. My struggle with inspiration,desire and love of quilt making was at an all time low. Took abit of pondering to figure out what and why. I don't claim to have all the answers, but I can tell you what finally worked for me. The following is part of a letter to wrote to a bogged down quilting friend recently."I had exactly the same feeling when I walked into my sewing room Angie. Overwhelmed...too much stuff begun, too many projects, too much mess. I shut the door and walked away. What I recently did was go in, select ONE project and bring it out to the dining room. I sorted it out,counted up needed blocks, etc. Then I put my sewing machine on the dining room table(or anywhere NOT in the sewing room) and sat down and worked on that chosen project. Only for awhile, not til it was done, etc, but for as long as the "OK" feeling lasted. then I put the project and the parts in a box and set it to one side.
The next day, I didn't sew, but I brought out another "begun" project, it's parts and sorted to see how many blocks were made and how many I still needed. I wrote down what I discovered, and pinned it to the pieces. If I felt inspired, I pulled the machine forward and sewed. If not, then I packed it up in a container or box and set it aside. And that's what finally gotten me sewing again. And... "if" you can accomplish a finish, like that simple Barbie quilt I showed, go for it. Any finish will do.
And maybe you have to be critical of the "beguns". In reality not all of them need to be finshed. They can be abandoned or donated, make someone else happy with them...LOL
The trick is to find the little part that will bring happiness to your heart and a smile to your face. Even a pillowcase is a great project, I have several waiting for me to choose them! Hugs, Finn
The picture is one of the "one at a time" projects I pulled out and worked on. Not to completion as more 2" strips are needed than I currently have. But progress was made and I feel optimistic about it.

Checking in....

2010-09-24T11:16:00.001-05:00

with some progress to report for a change! As I mentioned in my last posting, I've got a tale to tell. A Tale of Two Containers. Funny how things work sometimes. Background information, I usually store projects in the shoe box size Rubbermaid containers. The 9 patch blocks in this top are from one such container. The sad part(or maybe mindblowing) is that they are made from the siggy blocks exchanged for the Y2K quilts. I was unable to decided what to do with them, so I sewed them into 9 patches with some of their 2.5" square neighbors. And thus they have sat since 1998, that's the oldest date on one of them...yikes! The setting blocks is a 6.5" version of Tonya and Bonnie's Fungly quilts....2 yrs ago..maybe? Ya! Time for something to happen to both of those containers with blocks in them. The Muse struck and I decided to "combine" them. It's 36" square and I will be adding a 6" border and using the last 4 siggy blocks as cornerstone. About time, right???
For whatever reason, getting that "Container" project lauched, lit my fire! The Halloween quilt is now pieced. Not very exciting, but the grandkids won't mind, it's fun! A backing happens today.
And a very quick "Cowboys" quilt, ala Strippy method. I cut what cowboy and related fabrics I had into 3.5" strips and this one is now just about a twin size, a backing and some quick machine quilting and it's outta here!

And while I was on my sewing jag, I took a few minutes to pin, machine quilt and add a binding to this elderly project. It's all ready for someone, and one less on my endless list. Lots of rain, rain, rain here in the Valley. Our small local river is in "flood" mode, and growing worse daily as the water from up north comes thundering down. Heard that some places in MN got 10" from this latest storm. Luckily I'm high and dry. It was dicey earlier this week, as all the units got new roof shingles. Mine was begun and finished on Monday, just in time for the rain Monday night. They shingled in rain off and on Tuesday and Wednesday, and wrapped up amid a shower late Wednesday afternoon...just in time for yesterdays all day DOWN POUR!!

If it's autumn....

2010-09-10T15:13:00.001-05:00

or nearly so... that must be why I've got "orange" on my brain! Now what does that to us midwest dwellers? Maybe growing up with changing seasons. So many seasons, both changed and changing, behind me, as I look across the years. My vintage Orange Poppies quilt says it well, time to think "orange", and I am.
Once orange creeps into my brain, it's just a hop and a skip to Halloween. I love October, with September running a hard second. One of my newer friends, Stephanie, at Scraps, has a countdown to Halloween on her blog. I think she's probably Halloween Queen of the Universe. I can hardly wait to see all her decorations this year!
And what would Halloween be without a black cat. I'm all set in that department!! Ebby is black enough and spooky enough to fill the bill.

Baby L is a big boy now, a year later. I'm sure he doesn't remember the past Halloweens. This year, baby brother AJ will be sporting the Tigger costume. Probably L. will be Curious George...LOL, his favorite character. I have a Halloween quilt in the works, still in the flimsy stage, but I DO have time to "hatch" it all the way to "in use" vs. "in production". I have been sewing, and have a completely different top together. It's a "Tale of Two Containers", and when I get it pressed out, I'll show you, better late than never, right???

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2010-09-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

and sad words at that. This is one of the last pictures on my camera before today. Needless to say, the batteries needed re-charged, much the same as me! *VBS* Deader than a doornail!
Luckily summer came to the Valley, and my windowboxes sported petunias this year, in a lively purple. And now I remember why I DON'T plant petunias while living here. They get so very leggy, and the constant wind beats them to death!! Back to the wax begonias next year!
I have been sewing. Not like a "mad woman", but sewing. I had these blocks finished except for pressing, and I have managed to get them together into a top. I'm hoping to machine quilt it this long weekend, for some grandchild or another. Hmmmm? Now who loves FROGS???
And I have been working on these. The centers were printed as a larger square, I cut away the extra blue, and added some scrappy 2.5" strips. The blocks are now 8.5" and think it will make a nice sized quilt, as there are quite a few. Other than that, I've been doing a bit of blog hopping, and have found Deb Rowden's Thrift Shop Quilts. Love, love, love what she's doing with scraps, as well as her love of the really odd ball tops. Definitely is helping my mojo!! Have a wonderful, and safe Labor Day Weekend everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with all the folks up and down the eastern seaboard, be safe.

Sunny Days...

2010-08-24T09:18:00.002-05:00

...chasin' the clouds away, ah yes, the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. WARNING:no new pictures here. Just pieces from the scrapbag that is my life. A small sunny project, a little quilt to accompany the doll that went off to ilve with granddaughter H.
And some sunshine on a stem. A favorite of mine, Betsy's and Van Gogh. Beautiful AND delicious!
Leisure, a shady spot on a summer day. A time and place to reflect or just dream. Lately my dreams have been a mixed bag. Looking, seeking, wishing..a place or a way to jump start my enthusium for fabric and sewing(of quilts, primarily). A sense of guilt, as if I were lying about my passion, which seems to me missing.

And last, but not least, summer joy. My candy corn bandits, re-living the history of my kids. Oh the joy of doing belly-flops onto the shiny wet grass after a horrific rain storm, and sliding clear across the lawn on a sheet of standing water. Wish I had a picture of that *VBS*

Rainy days in the Valley...

2010-08-18T10:26:00.001-05:00

a perfect time to make that mug of tea and sit and sew *VBS* And I am!
10 a.m. and Ebby continues to complain about the size of her 8:30 feeding. Her record is 2.5 hrs before she gave up and went to sleep. She's still here, by my side, waiting...just in case I forgot that I fed her.
Cooler days this past few days, and feel of autumn is in the air here in the Valley. Very soon the school bells will ring again, another autumn, another year. Missing my Candy Corn Bandits....ALOT!!!

Baby H is growing up, too fast for me. The BIG 2 in July. She is the only granddaughter that carries the family name. She is an adorable imp, a chubby cherub in a pink dress. All girly, this one is. Love her and her big sister K to pieces *VBS*

One step at a time...

2010-08-16T11:10:00.001-05:00

In the sewing room, everything is pretty much as I left it. A brief flourish of inspiration, and then nothing. The UFOs, the projects, the ideas...they just sit there. But my old friend MAM, she never deserts me. In a wash basin, or a bag, a box or a pile, it is what it is, odd bits and parts who don't mind be sewn together. And so, I start there..to see if I can move forward, or at least closer to 'there'.
Big A graduates. An ending and a beginning. She is my oldest grandchild, the heir apparent and leader of the pack. She had the title role of "Granddaughter Solo" until 2 years ago. She now has 3 little junior princesses following her about. Yes, the grandchild count is 15, with 11 of them being boys! Oh Joy! Boys!!!
Her party was a huge affair, lots and lots of family from 4 sides, since she has two sets of parents and multiple grandparents. It was a fun day, watching her meet and greet, give hugs and jokes with equal abandonment. She's off to college in a few weeks. She will be starting at UW-River Falls, my old haunting ground and where I had a meet and greet of my own, way back in the 50's. End result? Wedding bells and no degree...ya right, re-thinking that one!! She's majoring in Elementary Education and I hope she can "just do it". All the way to the goal line.

And you know, it really doesn't seem so very long ago that this was the Sept. 13th birthday quilt. It's a MAM, of course, with the added touch of her name. It's been on her bed ever since. Wonder if it will go off to college?? Probably not...LOL

I'm a Grandma again...VBS

2010-05-17T10:59:00.000-05:00

And he is grandchild #15, and the 11th boy.
He was born on Friday morning, by arranged C-section in Stillwater, MN. He's a good sized boy, weighing in at 8 lbs, 8 ozs and 21" long.

Big brother Levi, who turned 2 in February thinks this is "pretty cool". We'll see how that works out once Mom and baby are home. I am so blessed *VBS*

And you know who you are...right? VBS

2010-05-16T17:06:00.000-05:00

Crossroads....

2010-05-12T23:26:00.001-05:00

How often we hit them,we make a decision and move on. Mostly it's easy. Occasionally it is unexpected, and sometimes, it's just plain hard. I find myself at the latter, in an unexpected place...not one of my choosing, but a result of former decisions, none the less.
I like the picture I've chosen to use tonight...I've always thought of it as a 'road less traveled', and that appeals to me. Or should that read "appealed"?Maybe what I have seen as a "road less traveled" is actually a "dead end".
After days(and weeks) of restlessness and discontentment, I realized tonight that I just plain DON'T LIKE MY LIFE anymore. I have to admit it shocked even me. I've been quite content with my small life, my simple, lowkey way of being in the world. That part hasn't changed, so maybe it's the things around me that have changed? Maybe I'm being pulled in too many directions? Or maybe lacking in direction at all? I don't know. I just know it's really NOT ok right now. And having realized that, I need to do something about it, and I am going to. All you get from treading water is tired legs. If you're doing something(regardless of how long you've done it)and it's not working, then do something else! Even if you don't have a plan, move confidently in a different direction and look for what beckons you to follow.

This and that, and sewing...

2010-04-07T20:55:00.000-05:00

as the traces of the long winter melt away, the long winter's napping is still in full force.. this is just one of Ebby's many places to catch those cat naps *VBS*
Urged onward by Michele in our Crazy, Scrappy, Strippy Orphans marathon, sewing has been happening. Although this doesn't look like it, it is the primary stage of Pinwheels, Wild and Scrappy. Or.."Mindless Sewing 101".
Several, can't say "many", but several more of these blocks are finished and awaiting their place in an ongoing quilt top.

And last, but not least, this is my newest JellyRoll from my dear friend Julie, of Julie Quilts. She tempted me into participating in the "JellyRoll Sampler" project. I'll try and post a link to the blog for those who haven't seen what we are up to using a jellyroll and a background fabric. I'm a bit behind, but think I can catch up if I apply myself. I have finished one of the first three blocks, and the next one isn't due until the 15th.

A little bit late, like me...

2010-04-06T10:50:00.003-05:00

but heartfelt, wishing everyone a Happy Passover and Easter season.

Rising from the ashes....

2010-03-29T12:41:00.002-05:00

like the bird of legend, I struggle to re-create myself one more time. We talk alot about friends and friendship, here in Blogland. And I've been blessed with many that are near and dear to me. On Saturday one more friend stretched her arms across the miles and pull me up and out, yet again. Here's the letter I received from her, via e-mail:Hey Finn,
Now, that I'm back in Oregon...I'm facing the late winter blues, so I'm doing my very best to NOT go into the cave and pull the winter covers over my head.
I had such a challenging time in Juneau and breaking my wrist and having the first surgery of my life ...all alone...was not even the hardest part!
But now, I'm biting the bullet, hanging onto my seam ripper, taking needle in hand..well, you get it...and lady...you and I...we are going to sew.

So drag out those darn scraps and join me! I don't care what we make, what we do. We're Liberated Quilters with capital letters and as my Cajun French mama says: "IT DON MATTA!!!!!"
We're taking all the little weirdos and unloveds and loving the heck out of them from now on.
So, get your scrap bag, dump it out on the floor by your sewing machine, take its photo, post it and.....
Sew lady, sew!!!

What to do?? Where to start when there is no starting point? Well, if you haven't got a plan, you just have to punt!
Name your passion or your poison...scraps by the box and basket full, orphan blocks and parts falling from shelves, boxes and drawers. A begun this, or an abandoned that?? It doesn't matter...just jump right in!!
Is getting the machine unburied the hardest part? Maybe...but once that's done, just grab something and sew it to something else...now you're moving!

It's a long way to Tipperary, a long way, I know...but if you can manage that first step, and then the next,....maybe you'll make it. Saturday was "bumpy" with interruptions, more "life keeps happening" problems and an invitation for tea and warm homemade bread...which I accepted. Sunday began slow, still no new pictures to share, but a couple of small bins, boxes or bags were emptied. It got better as the day went on...it began to flow. Ebby joined me in the sewing room, curling up in a favortie chair, which has been empty for several months now. The light was good, the day quiet, and an interesting book to listen to on CD...I made progress. I hung it up to watch The Amazing Race, feeling I had made alot of progress. No particular project, and maybe nothing in particular will come from my two days effort, but it felt good to have once again, sewed. And so I send my heartfelt thanks and love, along with a big hug to Michele, for reaching out on Saturday, and to Julie, for reaching out last week and stirring my creative fire to flame once again! And to all of you who have written, wondered and asked, where was I? You are all quite amazing friends. Hugs for all, Finn

Beds and quilts....

2010-03-04T18:17:00.001-06:00

quilts and beds. That's how we think of them..like bread and butter. And so it used to be, but not so much anymore. Quilts have come out of the closet, so to speak, in recent years. Now they can be 'snuggle', 'couch potato',wall, mini, extra mini, teeny-tiny mini and so much more. Whatever the mind can dream up, it's probably possible to make into some form of quilt. Quilts and beds....
beds and quilts...end of my saga??? Probably not *VBS* Enter Ebony,unplanned, unrehearse, unexpected, but not unwanted. If she was familiar with quilts in her previous life, you couldn't tell. She took to quilts immediately... bed quilts, floor quilts, on the chair quilts, hanging off the ironing board quilts, and even quilt blocks laid out on the floor. I had been under the illusion that it was MY bed, and MY quilt. Apparently no one told her.
It's come to the point where not only does she 'share' my bed and my quilts, she has begun to think they are HERS!! In these chilly dark days of winter, she lives on the bed. The fact I keep and electric blanket turned on 24/7 doesn't hurt either. It is, after all, a VERY cold bedroom with a north and east corner exposure. These newer units weren't built to be energy efficient, just pretty. Brrrrrrr!
This has been a hard winter for both Ebony and the old Finn-ster. The days have been darker, longer and colder than ever before it seems. Little by little I have turned my bed and quilts into a nest. First it was the adding of an older(less well populated)down comforter over me,and under the quilt. She firmly approved of the added softness up top. Then it was a flannel backed quilt, flannel side up for her comfort, across the foot of the bed, read 'extra layer for frozen toes'. And finally, from the depths of dark and cold, I resort to pulling out the feather bed. I haven't used it much lately, as it makes keeping the bed neat in appearance, very difficult. To sleep on, it's wonderful, soft, warm and comfy. Ebony totally approves of the feather bed part of the nest.

And what it had done is drive home the idea that it's HER bed and she'd thank me to NOT disturb her by getting into it and under the assorted covers! I went in late this afternoon for a bit of a lay down, and it was very clear that HER flannel lined, extra comfy, electrically warmed nest wasn't for sharing!!! Boy, I'm glad spring is just around the corner *VBS*P.S. the letters are the only thing I've sewn on this past month..better days coming, I hope.

I got nothin'......

2010-02-05T13:14:00.000-06:00

Adding a bit of color to an all white landscape helps. But any interest in sewing, whether new or old, still lags.
There is a baby quilt I need to get busy and finish, but haven't found even the smallest bit of 'get-up-and-go' with which to complete it.
All of the forms are here, and income tax time looms on the horizon, but I still have time...right? *VBS*

Grandbabies turning from 0 to 1 next week, Baby A has been with us a year already. And Baby L, who will be a big brother in May, is going to be 2 the following week. Time....yup, I still have enough of that. Enjoy the colors of the day, I'll be back with something quilt related sooner or later...LOL. I'm just waiting for inspiration to strike.