Quilting By Darcie

he said, she said

2011-11-20T09:00:00.005-06:00

I have been on a quest for a quote. Just one. That perfect one...that, when I read it, I say to myself, "Yes! That is exactly what I need to say!"

But through hours of research on this wonderful thing we call the internet, I seem to be finding oodles of quotes...not just one. And all of them are perfect! Some are Bible verses...others from famous authors of our time. There are book quotes...bits and pieces of poems...dialogue from movies. The list goes on.

What to do...what to do....

Honestly...it just comes down to this: "I am just not blogging any more."

(I know...you have already noticed that, haven't you!)

I will never say that I will never blog again.

And I will not say good-bye. Good-byes have never been my forte.

I have found that Facebook is more to my liking, currently. It's simple. It's casual. And simple and casual is something that I wear quite well. It's totally my strong suit.

And it's where I am.

And I do, with all of my heart, hope to see you there!

(Please click here...you'll be taken to my October's Child Facebook page. I do hope you'll "LIKE" it!)

remembering...september 11

2011-09-11T07:30:00.001-05:00

Because I am tongue tied as to what I really want to say...I am taking this quote from William Ewart Gladstone:

"We look forward to a time when the Power Of Love...

will replace the Love of Power.

Then will our world know the blessings of peace."

Let's keep moving forward...while still remembering what brought us here.

in tense

2011-09-01T15:00:00.001-05:00

I think a lot about the present. Or..."The now" as Cesar Millan would say.

Well, actually...he would probably say something more in the lines of "Dogs live in the now"...but that's a whole 'nother tale.

Over the past few weeks, months...years?...I have shared with you the accomplishments that I've achieved by machine quilting, baking, mothering, home improving (rarely)...and crocheting. I do so enjoy the reward of making something -- or actually FINISHING something -- as much as the next person!

But if I only shared the goods with you...you would never think that I had any bads, right?

Well...I do. Or...did.

Wait. Actually, I still have this less-than-triumphant piece that was supposed to be a hat. I am keeping it. As a reminder. Of what was...and what can be.

Deep thoughts, eh?!

See...I messed up. Simple as that. I was having much too much fun just crocheting along...not bothering to halt even long enough see if the proposed hat would actually fit around my head, much less anyone else's.

So once I concluded that this really, truly, obviously was going to be nothing more than a failed attempt at a hat (which took about 3 days...honestly)...I tried frogging, as they say. (Rip it, rip it.)

Or, technically stated, I tried salvaging the yarn so that I could start over. Fresh. A new beginning. A new future for my yarn...and for my hat.

Ack! After an evening of first, patience...then total lack of it...collected thoughts...then a few choice words...I made an executive decision. I heard a voice in my head.

"Sometimes holding on to something from the past can cloud your thoughts of what brightness the future may hold."

In other words: "Move on Darcie," I told myself!

"It's only yarn. There is more where that came from!"

"Make something prettier...starting tomorrow!"

one of the rewards i get from yoga

2011-08-11T10:00:00.004-05:00

I could have seriously gotten into a lot of trouble -- fun trouble at that -- in a roadside antique and woolen shop in the Black Hills.

It's not because the shop had so many antiques that I was interested in...nor woolens that I couldn't have found anywhere else.

So what had me taking deep breaths?

Antique, vintage, or otherwise...it was their crocheted goods that were in my focus!

But how could I choose just a couple of pieces?

Serious discipline, I'm thinking.

Discipline...along with a car full of fellow adult travelers...wondering if I was ever going to get back in the vehicle and on the road again...

i would if i could

2011-08-08T10:00:00.002-05:00

So...if you don't mind, I'd love to show you around the lovely little cabin that we rented while in the Black Hills. I think it was definitely the way to go for our family.

Although they were quite lovely and quaint, I will spare you the details of the bedrooms and bathrooms.

Ooops...make that BATHROOM. Yes. One bathroom. Six adults. And it was the favored room of the cabin, believe it or not.

Seemed everyone always wanted to be in there when it was already occupied by another. Funny how that worked. If no one was in there...nobody else needed it. Does that happen in your house? Or is this nature just suggestive of rental cabins? Hmmm.

Ah well...enough of the small talk. I'll try to let my photos do more of the talking than my fingers....

This old sled and wooden crate made a darling little side table near the television.

The cabin (minus the chinking...ok...make that "the house that looked like a log cabin") was filled with glorious wooden structures.

Some with knots....

And pegs...just right for hanging up jackets and sweaters and hats....

And some structures just pretended to be wood-like. Amazing tile, isn't it! Very textural.

What a stair case!

Oooh...and someone has been crocheting up here!

"Goldilocks? Have you been crocheting in my house?"

Ah...looks like Jack was here once upon a time as well....

Ah yes...I am pining to go back...someday....

home away from home

2011-08-06T11:00:00.001-05:00

Goodness. It has been over 1 month since I last blogged. You really don't want to hear reasons and excuses, do you?

Good. Thank you for being so patient. Thank you thank you for being here.

Well, the Grager family took a little mini-vacation to the Black Hills of South Dakota last week. I don't know how the others feel...but I...seriously...could live there. There is just an unexplainable energy that I feel there.

Love. It.

Mind if I share a few photos with you in the next few days?

The following is one of the neighboring cabins.

Yeah.

Gorgeous, isn't it! I contemplated knocking on their door to ask for sugar. Neighbors do that, don't they?

We spent 3 nights staying in a rental cabin...built on an intense incline. Wow. Just going to the mailbox could be considered a true aerobic workout!

And there were wildflowers. Everywhere. My sweet family heard me say this over and over: "...there is this scent that I keep smelling. It's amazing! What is it?!"

I never did figure it out. Gosh. Should have asked the neighbors!

Ah...glorious, majestic trees.

And weathered, eroded rocks...surviving all elements.

Although there's no place like home...it was a pretty sweet place to be!

Thanks for tagging along with my camera and me!

benjamin franklin once said it

2011-07-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Where liberty dwells,
there is my country."

We are home of the red, white, and blue.

Happy Independence Day, United States of America!

call a therapist

2011-06-11T10:00:00.001-05:00

Today is the day that I can finally come out and show some folks what I am all about.

Yes! Today is World Wide Crochet/Knit in Public Day!

Gotcha.

While I feel that I can definitely not call myself a doily maker (yet)...I do occasionally enjoy a few quiet hours of thread crochet.

In the photo above, I simultaneously used two strands of a lovely Italian wool thread...and crocheted around a common pebble.

Yes, a rock.

Now speed ahead a little with me...and you cannot fathom how tickled I was when I turned a page in the latest Interweave Crochet magazine and read the article about thread crochet...AND...drum roll, please...how to alter your steel hook to better comfort your wrists and grip!

Hurray! Thread crochet and wool felting all rolled into one?! How super is that!?!

Say what? Am I traveling too fast for you? Eek...I'm just so excited to share.

Okay. Here goes. It's very simple. (But some of the finer things in life are just that, right? Simple.)

In the photo above, I have just placed a few crisscrossing layers of fine wool roving on my work surface.

Next photo: I took the hook that I use most often in my thread crochet...laid a very fine, thin layer of glue on one edge of the roving...and then allowed the hook and glue to marry with the wool roving for just a few moments.

And then? I simply rolled it up as snugly as possible. But...there's more....

Of course, in the photo above, it is awaiting the crucial step of the actual wet felting.

That is a verb: Wet felting. And I do so enjoy it!

Minus the details and the fun and sheer enjoyment that I receive from sculpting the wool using mere soap...and hot water...some manipulation...and then more sculpting.

And perhaps more rinsing and repeating and sculpting. It's quite therapeutic if you ask me. And honestly...if you didn't ask me, I would probably just blurt it out to you anyway!

Voila. A delicately wrapped...hand wool-felted...thread-crochet hook...handle. Did you get all that? It's a handful, isn't it!

And my wrist is thanking me already.

Happy World Wide Crochet/Knit in Public Day...from me to you!

bar none

2011-06-01T05:00:00.002-05:00

If the photo below looks a little fuzzy and out-of-focus to you...that is because it is.

Fuzzy.

Literally.

It is wool roving! Of course it is fuzzy...and soft...and delicate.

I have arranged it in layers in a crisscrossed manner.

And now...

...a little rectangle of (hotel) soap. I just knew they would come in handy!

And next...I will just wrap the wool roving around the soap ever-so-carefully.

Ta-da.

Now. A shower of just-hot-enough water.

And a careful sudsing....

Next, a rinse of cool water.

And a good squishing to release all of the excess water.

Am I crazy thinking that it is so stinking cute?

Please tell me "No, of course not!"

Good. Because I am making more felted soaps!

Wonder what I'll run out of first...soap? Or wool roving?

Dare I say..."This is good, clean fun!"

*******
June 2 addendum:

I recently received a comment from someone who is set as *no-reply.* So, I thought I would just add onto this initial post and answer publicly.

Patricia kindly asked what felted soap would be used for. Good question!

For me personally, they're just quite adorable and you could design them to be very primitive looking or quite artsy-smartsy. Who doesn't need a conversation piece in their bathroom? (Not for conversation IN the bathroom necessarily, but....)

Another reason would be that the felt acts as a protective wrap, so to speak, for the soap. How wasteful are those little chunks of soap that still look as though they have a lot of use left...yet are just too little to manipulate in your hands...so they wind up getting thrown out in my house.

And here on the farm, we have a lot of soiled pairs of hands that need just a little extra *umph* to help come clean. The felted wool operates as a gentle exfoliator.

So there you have it! My 2 cents.

happy memorial day 2011, usa

2011-05-30T10:00:00.001-05:00

They fell...

But o'er...

their glorious grave...

Floats free...

the banner...

of the cause...

they died to save. ~quote by Francis Marion Crawford~

I am so grateful. God, please bless all service men and women who have served our great nation...and those who continue to serve. Bless their families as well.

we had a ball

2011-05-26T09:00:00.002-05:00

I find myself saying this nearly every day: "Where does the time go?!"

You too?

I am pleased to say that I am the mother of two recently graduated daughters! Their high school graduation was last Sunday!

Around here folks celebrate that occasion with yet another occasion: The Graduates' Open House. And what seems to be one of the most important roles in any celebration, namely an Open House? Besides being surrounded by friends and family, that is?

You got it. The food!

"What's that up there in that photo?" you ask?

That my friend, is a red velvet cake that has been baked...cooled...and crumbed into a large bowl.

The white stuff? Cream cheese frosting.

"Mmm-mm-mmm."

So...a few tedious steps later (you can follow this link and be provided with each and every detail ever needed) and we have chocolate-dipped cake balls! Did you hear me say "Mmm-mm-mm?"

Uh-huh. You can say it with me. You know you want to.

"Mmm-mm-mmm."

Sorry to be so repetitious...but my mother always told me to "never speak with your mouth full of food." I always listen to my mother.

Mmm. A hot cup of joe and a cake ball. Life is good.

I LOVE leftovers.

walk this way

2011-05-14T14:00:00.001-05:00

Please! Join me on Facebook!

You can either click right here or just type in October's Child in the search field on your own Facebook home page.

I will be waiting for you....

any day now...

2011-05-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

Wishing a Happy Mother's Day to every woman today...whether you are a mother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, grandmother, or best friend.

face value

2011-05-05T10:00:00.002-05:00

I like to believe that even more important than supporting my habit while traveling to the occasional craft fair is the value of being exposed as a home-based business owner...of hearing repeat customers' and potential customers' comments.

I have to admit to being a people-pleaser...and feeding off of others' excitement and enthusiasm for my work.

Oh, it is not only when they purchase my goods...but just their commentary about beginning or nourishing their own endeavors. Or about pulling out grandma's hooks and yarn and giving the world of crochet a whirl for themselves.

This past weekend I had the opportunity of having a young girl stop by my set-up on more than one occasion. She chattered gleefully about just learning how to crochet herself...and the things that she wanted to make and to learn. Her eyes were sparkling with joy!

How exciting! And what a thrill for me to witness her motivation.

We may live and breath in a technological-rich society, folks...but there is always the hope of keeping age-old arts and crafts blossoming and growing.

And of course, there is the camaraderie that emerges between other home-based entrepreneurs. That alone can often be a wealth of information as well as a nest egg of encouragement and support.

I thoroughly enjoyed my conversations with my new friends. We all share a common thread: Passion for what we do.

There is always something to learn...someone to meet...an idea to share.

Value does not always have a dollar amount.

I believe, in this life, we get what we pay for.

it's a good friday

2011-04-22T09:30:00.001-05:00

A blessed Good Friday to those of you who celebrate Easter!

Happy Earth Day to you Earthlings who recycle and re-use and re-purpose...and who just plain do what you can to make this a better planet in which to live and breathe.

I have been reading that we are supposed to celebrate Earth Day with a picnic. Hmm. Thanks...but I think I will pass on that invitation this year.

It is April 22...and although we have less snow than these pictures from last week show...it just is not your typical picnic-type weather today.

Although...on second thought...the watermelon and potato salad would certainly stay chilled, wouldn't they!

There is always a bright side if you look for it.

saving for a rainy day

2011-04-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

And that day is here. Cloudy. Wet. A bit dreary.

But right now...after many moments of mumbling and grumbling and crankiness...I am looking for the brighter side.

It's been said...

"...whenever you see the sun reflected in the window of a building, it is an angel."

A precious thought, don't you agree?

reading between the lines

2011-04-01T14:30:00.005-05:00

Happy April 1st!

And if you live anywhere near to me...happy SUNNY day!

Oh! I almost forgot. If you are a prankster...Happy April Fools Day to you!

Do you know the history of April Fools Day?

Me either. Shucks...that could have made for fun conversation, wouldn't it!

I was so inspired by a fellow blogger's post. What creativity!

I tried and tried to come up with a few truths and/or follies for my own blog. Quickly did I learn that I do not sport an ounce of imagination!

Where was I when God was handing that out?

Just a random question here for you: When blog surfing, do you read the posts word for word...or tend to look mainly at the pictures?

Do you think that the internet has affected our reading habits? I do.

I am often guilty of scrolling through text, skimming here and there...just to get to the photos.

How about you? Are you on the same page as me? (Ha...I could not resist that pun!)

So I could be writing something really juicy right about now and you may...or may not even notice it!

Hmm. Interesting, isn't it.

Now if I had any imagination at all...you would think that I could come up with something mind-blowing for you to either believe...or disbelieve.

Or at least ponder for a moment...or two.

Ah yes....

But instead...little old unimaginative me is just showing you a few little crocheted goodies for new babies and mommies.

***Addendum***

By the way, if you were here a little while earlier...you saw all text and no pics. Dirty rotten prank, wasn't it! It was the blogging gremlins or something...I really have no idea. Honest.

Very freakish for me, whatever it was...because...well...having missing photos was all-too peculiar of a mishap with my title and text and all, don't you agree?

Very freakish. Eerily weird. Just plain kooky.

a girl's best friend

2011-03-23T14:00:00.001-05:00

Happy National Puppy Day!

I would like to introduce to you my MacyJane. Born in May of 2010, I believe she is still considered a puppy.

I have heard it said that "There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face." Isn't that the truth! (Well...when said puppy is your own. I'll speak for myself.)

On occasion while doing my yoga practice, she'll surprise me during my -- get this -- downward facing dog pose...and lick happily at my face, tail wagging wildly. *giggle* It could be one of the reasons that I enjoy yoga so much, couldn't it!

And the white stuff that we seem to keep hanging around? Macy LOVES it!

Can you tell?

What a girl!

You can be sure that wherever I am...MacyJane is not far. She's (usually) the best shadow I could ever ask for, sunshine or darkness.

So...Happy Puppy Day from both of us!

green day

2011-03-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

May God give you...

For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.

For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share.
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.

room with a view

2011-03-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

Yes. That is snow once again covering the screen of the window that I look out of while on my computer.

But I will accept my serving of snow and ice and continue to pray for the thousands and thousands of people who have been left with disaster at this very moment.

The plaque that rests upon my window sill? It reads "All things are possible if you believe."

thursday...

2011-03-03T12:00:00.002-06:00

...rocks.

I know. You certainly didn't expect that kind of a statement from me, did you?

*chuckle*

I have an unexplainable endearment to rocks. I loved collecting rocks as a kid. (What kid doesn't, really?) I just feel a calm energy in the company of rocks. I still collect them.

Go ahead. You can roll your eyes. Or nod in agreement with me. Or just have no response at all. It doesn't really matter to me. I love rocks. Plain and simple.

And Thursdays? Well...it's kind of the same for me. I love Thursdays.

That allure has not been life-long though. For the past few years, I have just granted Thursday as my "don't worry, be happy" sort of day. I still work and study, just like any other day. But for part of any given Thursday, I secure a little me time...right smack in the middle of the day!

It's freeing! You should try it!

Or perhaps you already have that kind of a day?

stage flight

2011-02-23T05:00:00.003-06:00

There is this saying that I hear in just about any circle. It may be words to a song...a quote in a book...a line in a movie or play....

"Life is not measured by the breaths that you take. It's about how many moments take your breath away."

Yes. You've heard it too, haven't you! You have probably even quoted it?

I must say that in North Dakota, this adage can be taken quite literally. Sometimes the wind blows so strongly or the temperatures are so frigid...that yes, it definitely takes your breath away!

Literally.

And then, there is figuratively speaking. The beauty. It can take your breath away.

I'm not saying that these are the most fabulous photos that I've ever taken or ever seen...but I'm so thrilled that I was smitten enough to stop whatever it was that I was doing at the time and capture a few pictures on my camera.

The stage of winter that we were in just a month or more ago.... Well...it was beautiful! Such peace. Purity. Nature...just basking in itself.

And now? *bleck* Our snow is dirty...crystallized...exhausted. Ugly.

The beauty seems to have taken flight right before my eyes!

"Eh bein." (French for "Oh well.")

Life is but a stage...and the show will go on!

love rocks

2011-02-14T06:30:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it can be difficult to find....

Then again...maybe it's right there in front of you....

Happy Valentine's Day 2011!

definitely not seeing red

2011-02-11T09:00:00.003-06:00

Seeing red. That usually means that one is disgusted or annoyed or irritated, right?

Well...the definition of the phrase "seeing red" does not have a thing to do with this quilt!

I enjoyed every moment! From the time I opened Sandy's (my client) package...through my whole machine quilting process...and on and on until I packaged the quilt to be sent back to Sandy W.

I guess it's true. Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

I've been buried in my online courses. And although I enjoy that challenge and the learning that goes with it...I wonder if I perhaps missed machine quilting.

Just a little. *smile*

And I'm sure Sandy missed her quilt while it was here with me, safe and sound and waiting -- and WAITING -- to be quilted!

So pretty. And Sandy was tickled pink...which is always a good thing!

I love the simplicity. The colors...greens and pinks and neutrals. And the red!

already ready

2011-02-04T09:00:00.001-06:00

Today is the day! February 4. It's national Wear Red Day.

You're probably already dressed and well into your day. Me too.

Are you wearing a red dress? Red boots? (Gosh...that's what I don't have yet...red boots!) How about a red pin or scarf or belt?

Me too! Finding something red to wear to show my Heart Spirit was not difficult for me. I LOVE red...and I love what this day stands for!

How about you. Have you been closely touched by heart disease?

Someone you know?

Someone you love? Me too.

Has it been a wake-up call for you?

Me too.

Happy Friday to you. Happy Heart Truth Day to you!

Grab something -- ANYTHING -- red and wear it! Heart disease doesn't care what you wear.

some bunny outside my window

2011-02-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Groundhog Day!

I know...I'm a day early. Groundhog Day is officially February 2.

And you know...this is not a groundhog anyway...so it's all good, right!

Some bunny loves my tree!

beauty is...

2011-01-28T16:00:00.003-06:00

...in the eye of the beholder.

You've heard that saying, haven't you? I find that this statement can hold true in several areas of life. Nature. Music. People. Art. There is an indefinite list of where beauty lies.

But I definitely was not thinking "beauty" while creating this Scraptical Magic afghan. (My name for it...just for fun! Kind of a marriage of two words: Practical and scraps.) I was -- or at least, I thought I was -- just cleaning out my yarn stash. This is what a girl has to do when she has too much, right?

Fun? It was! I gathered many (MANY) scraps of yarn that I have collected over the years and just started double crocheting with an N crochet hook. This process required no rhyme nor reason. I didn't allow it to. I remained very practical...just stitching until I ran out of yarn...or became bored with the color or the texture. And then I would grab another....

If you are familiar with crocheting or knitting or just a crafty person in general, you can see that I obviously did not even concern myself with weaving in any of my yarn tails! In fact...I joined yarn after yarn by simply tying a good old fashioned KNOT!

Oh...and the varying weights of the yarns? Irrelevant! How rogue of me, yes?

And do you know what? If I wanted to, I could pick up a stitch right where I left off and make this bigger!

Looking back on it now, I feel that the beauty of this is not the finished project, but the process of recalling which of these was my very first piece of purchased yarn. It was by no means a luscious fiber, purchased at a local yarn store. No. It was just a commercially available skein from a big box store. But it was, after all, the beginning of hours of joy.

Can I tell you a secret? I have been so busy with crochet projects over the winter, that I am nearly positive I have enough yarn in my scrap basket for another Scraptical Magic afghan!

How beautiful is that!

stop, drop, and roll

2011-01-20T13:30:00.001-06:00

On any given day around here, there is somewhat of an agenda. I like to keep a pretty reliable schedule. It just suits me. One of the main items on the docket is a smooth cup (Yes...just ONE cup!) of coffee.

And I like mine noticeable. The coffee, that is, not the agenda. Mmm.

So what exactly, do I mean by a noticeable cup of coffee? Well, I'm no barista...so I'm not too certain on the vernacular. But I do like my coffee strong, yet not bitter. On the other hand, I have been known to push away a cup of coffee that is -- as my Mom would say -- colored water.

I want to smell it. I want to taste it. I want to want to bathe in it.

Okay...true. That was probably TMI (Too Much Information)! But do you know what I mean?

Mmm...it's mid-day...and I do think I'll indulge in another cup! Sometimes you just have to stop, drop what you're doing...and savor the flavor!

Happy National Coffee Break Day!

he said...

2011-01-17T07:30:00.002-06:00

"I have a dream."

Today, the USA is celebrating the life of the great Martin Luther King, Jr....also known as MLK Day.

"The time is always right to do what is right." MLK

Shall we try to put a little MLK in every day?

tickled pink

2011-01-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

It all started like this:

First, I received a request from my crochet client, Nancy, that she would like another Capelet. At that point in time, I had already made two for her. One, charcoal grey in color...the other, a warm Autumn red.

I can pretty much call it my own pattern. I've had some terrific input from Nancy. She and I call it the Version II Capelet.

(Yes, thank you...there was a Version I...and that is why we now have a Version II!) So anyway....

Good deal! That I could certainly and would certainly do!

She mentioned that a bright, cheery, hot pink was on her wish list.

Hmm...I love that sort of pink myself! So...I did a little research. I found a few color swatches for Nancy to choose from and then e-mailed them her. And voila! The following color is what she chose.

Bright? Yes.

Cheery? I'll say!

Hot? Oh, yeah!

Here is just how hot this pink truly is:

Pantone has chosen this pink for their color of the year!

Did you compare my yarn swatch and the Pantone color swatch? A pretty great match, don't you think?

Serendipity. I love when stuff like that happens, don't you?

Oh! And I do hope that you read or at least skim over the Pantone article. Very interesting!

So...there it is. The above photo is a close-up view of Nancy's capelet. Only I changed it up a bit. This one, I'm naming Version III.

And although I haven't heard back from Nancy quite yet...I do hope (You knew this was coming, right?)...that...she is tickled pink about it!

recollecting

2011-01-12T05:00:00.005-06:00

By no means am I intending to brag or boast. Rather, I feel fortunate. Blessed. Lucky.

Why? I was taught by one of the very best, that's why.

In this blog post, I shared with you photos of my very first quilt. Oh my, what I learned!

Over the four-week class series, I do not truly recall the exact order in which I learned the blocks and the processes of constructing them. After all, that was twenty years ago!

If you’re a quilter though, perhaps you quickly noticed the techniques that would be needed to construct each particular block.

The heart? Hand applique.

The Shoo Fly block. How I remember that one…for I proclaimed the first night of class that I would surely never be interested in using rotary cutters. Yes…it would be templates and scissors all the way for me! Those rotary cutters…they were scary!

Ha! That initial notion did not last long at all!

With the Ohio Star, we learned the different types of bias cuts…and how to place them…as well as how NOT to place them.

And the Eight Pointed Star. It’s an 8-pointed star…need I say more?

There were sashing strips. And post squares…and a border…and back-to-front styled binding. We learned a treasure chest of techniques in just 4 weeks!

More importantly -- what I clearly remember -- is something that my instructor relayed to our class over and over again. “If you are careful and do your very best in your measuring and cutting, the sewing and assembly will be to near-perfection.”

That religion, so to speak, has often spilled over into my own class teachings. (That is, IF I’m not teaching liberal and maverick piecing techniques!) But even then...sometimes....

Oh...and another thing that I remember her saying? "Have fun...it's only fabric and there's lots more where that came from!"

Yes. She was the best.

And it is now that I share this utterly sad news. On Friday, January 7, 2011, my first quilting instructor, Correen M, lost her battle with cancer. She will be sorely missed…but never forgotten!

Memories of her and her passion of quilting will continue to be stitched into my quilts...and many others’ quilts as well.

"Rest in peace, dear Correen."

january eleven...in the year two thousand eleven

2011-01-11T06:00:00.002-06:00

Otherwise known as 1-11-11.

Or 1/11/11, if you wish.

Regardless of how you write it...pretty cool, don't you think? January 11, 2011.

One. Eleven. Twenty eleven.

Make your day special! You're the only one who can.

the color of cold

2011-01-08T08:30:00.000-06:00

Oh...you didn't know that cold has a color? (I'm not sure that it does either.)

Baby, it's cold outside! And God, is it ever beautiful!

Mornings like this...I am even more grateful to be a morning person.

Who would want to miss this?

I ventured just a few mere steps outside my warm house...and look what is right in front of me!

I didn't stay long though...it was too COLD!

begin began begun

2011-01-06T09:30:00.004-06:00

I have mentioned a time or two that I often have a song that is fitting to nearly any occasion, great or small. Songs seem to get planted in my head...and I find myself hearing their lyrics ring through my brain the entire day...and then some.

I haven't yet accustomed myself to listening to music while I'm working on my online Medical Transcription studies. Seems there is enough rolling around in my brain...and enough day-to-day noises throughout the house to keep the grey matter filled.

But while I'm machine quilting? That is another story! I love my music! I must admit though, I am still in the days of a compact disc player. No mp3 or ipod docking station for this girl.

(Yet.)

I have never been one to crank the tunes so loudly that I can hear them over the motor of my longarm machine. But when I stop stitching to advance the quilt or change a bobbin or what have you, it is at that moment that I can really tune in (Please excuse the pun.) to the words.

The lyrics that have struck a chord (Oh my goodness...please excuse yet another pun!) with me recently are from a Darius Rucker song, simply entitled "This."

Now of course, he does not sing about quilts...but you know that I can translate just about anything into quilts. Or just plain, real life. You too?

Without sharing all of the exact words from the song with you, a part of them goes like this: "...thank God...'cause it led me here to this."

The photos that you're seeing in this blog? They are of my very first quilt.

Very. First. Quilt.

Did you see that circled number 1? I must have thought that I was actually going to number each and every quilt?! What?!

Amateur.

I still remember that series of beginner classes like it was yesterday. I learned a great deal! About fabric and tools and machines and gadgets and color. (You'd never guess it by this color scheme, would you?)

But I honestly learned even more...about myself.

Yes...we all have beginnings, don't we! How about you? Do you still have your first quilt? I challenge you to share it!

This could be fun!

Although I know that this quilt of mine is definitely -- definitely -- not a prize winner...it is exactly what has led me here to this.

auld lang syne

2011-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

Happy 2011!

signs signs everywhere there's signs...

2010-12-31T05:00:00.002-06:00

...blocking up the scenery....

I can usually think up a song -- or at least partially recollected lyrics to one -- for nearly any occasion, big or small. And more times than not, that particular song will remain in my head for the entire day.

Often, even into the next....

The signs. Fun fabric, don't you agree!

My good friend, Karen L, is responsible for choosing this collection of fabrics...and for creating this darling youth quilt.

To be honest, I'm not sure if Karen produced this pattern herself...or if she used a commercial pattern to construct this quilt. But regardless, it certainly is a fun one!

It would truly be perfect for any scale of printed fabric. Can you see it in florals? How about in plaids or other geometrics...all in a variety of scale?

Mmm. Or how about hand dyeds or solids! One could use color temperature (cool colors and warm colors) to add interest as the design element instead of using scale or pattern!

And one could definitely adjust the number of blocks to make this quilt any size to fit the recipient to a T! Ah...the sky is the limit!

There ain't no mountain high enough. Ain't no valley low enough. Ain't no river....

I happen to know that Karen pieced this quilt is a gift, and is giving it to a very lucky young man. Oh boy, how he'll love it! How any male, young or young at heart, would love it!

Now, I'm a girl, through and through. But being a lover of wheels...and circles...and movement and...oh my! I do believe I hear a song coming on....

You're hearing it, too?

Sing it with me! Big wheel keep on turnin'. Proud Mary keep on burnin'. And we're rollin'...

december 25, 2010

2010-12-25T06:00:00.001-06:00

May you find joy and blessings and the company of loved ones to be your only true presents this Christmas.

first and foremost

2010-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

In a musical composition, you might call it a prelude....

When you pick up a book for the first time, do you read the preface...or just dive right into the storyline?

For some, appetizers are a nice way to begin a dining experience. Me? I'm a salad kind of girl.

I've been to a few musical concerts in my life...and there's always been an opening act before the headlining act comes out to perform. Some of those openers were more memorable than the actual reason I went to the concert in the first place! Others? Not so much.

And it usually doesn't matter to me what sporting event I happen to be attending -- a basketball game, a volleyball game, a stock car race -- I always get chills through my body when our national anthem is played first!

So...considering that tomorrow is the first official day of Winter...or Winter Solstice, if you please...what was all of this that was occurring before the 21st of December?

frozen in time

2010-12-18T05:00:00.002-06:00

5 a.m. publish. 6 a.m. edit:

Yes, this is an up close and personal photo of a true North Dakotan snowflake...on my red jacket.

I recently read a quote that said 'You don't take a photograph. You ask, quietly, to borrow it.'

A fitting statement, yes?

'tis the season

2010-12-16T09:00:00.002-06:00

Remember that I shared with you that I machine quilted name panels for the AAQI, the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative, this past summer?

Yes...it truly felt good to share some of my time! But I honestly did not expect what I'm about to share with you. I received an e-mail from Ami Simms, the founder of the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative, this past Monday that announced the tremendous news.

Please check out this link to the AAQI blog.

Pretty cool, yes?!

Now...back to shoveling snow.... Yes. It's that season, too!

modus operandi

2010-12-13T06:00:00.002-06:00

Do you ever get so far off track that you have a difficult time finding it again? Your track, I mean.

Your mojo. Your muse. Your method of operation. Whatever you choose to call it.

Oh...and by the way...I looked up the word mojo. Oh, man! That's so not what I thought it meant!

That's where I've been with blogging. You've noticed.

I guess the best way for me to get back on the blogging path is to just do it, yes? Such a simple concept....

Pictured in this getting-back-on-track blog is a quilt of my own...a Wonky Log Cabin that I pieced from my own October's Child hand dyed fabrics.

As you can see, I machine quilted my Freehand Fancy Flowers Echo over it. This table runner now resides very comfortably in the home of my sweet Norwegian friend!

There. I did it! I found my track!

Thanks for waiting for me.

happy thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T07:00:00.002-06:00

May your joys be abundant on this day and throughout....

Happy Thanksgiving Day to you and yours!

*Image from Google search. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 1934.

beary funny

2010-11-17T12:01:00.001-06:00

*giggle*

Until I saw it posted on my own Facebook profile page, I had forgotten to title my previous post!

Enjoy your day!

on the road again

2010-11-17T11:00:00.004-06:00

It’s crazy. I’ve been struggling so…contemplating on just how to put this all into words.

Me. The self-professed wordie…now having trouble finding the right ones.

Irony, I guess they call that.

But really...it’s not a big deal.

Why am I so reluctant?

It’s not like I’m departing from longarm machine quilting entirely. Not quite...yet. I’m just…in ebb.

Mellowing. On retreat. For now.

Oh, lest you worry! I am not sitting idle! No no no. Since late August, I have been studying online for a new career path! A path that has been patiently adjacent to my every move…since…well, I cannot even remember.

But I’ve had a passion inside of me to do this…and finally, I encountered the courage to follow my own simple advice that I've shared with so many: "Just do it!"

What am I just doing, you ask? Medical Transcription. Medical Transcription Editing, to be exact. If you’re interested in learning more about this field, please e-mail me or comment here on my blog…and I can certainly share some information with you. In fact, I'd love to!

After twenty-two, twenty-three years, is the studying a challenge for me? "Oh, yes."

Do I love it? "Oh. Yes!"

And I must announce: I’m so grateful to my loving and supportive family and close friends…standing beside me on this decision…cheering me on.

"I love you all."

And to those understanding, patient, special machine quilting clients. Friends, really. (You know who you are!) To you, I say "thank you!" What an amazing journey you and I have taken for the past 18 years in this industry!

And thank you also, for allowing me to work at my own pace on your treasures as I settle my sites on this new horizon.

So…that is it!

"Consider me semi-retired from machine quilting."

Yes. There. I said it!

Me. Forty-something. On a fresh route. A new avenue. And I couldn’t be more eager to continue!

Onward.

11:11

2010-11-11T06:30:00.005-06:00

Make a wish.

Do you make a wish when you catch the clock striking 11:11? I seem to often miss it...but when I do see it, it's a bit of a celebration. I close my eyes...and make a wish...or perhaps a quick prayer.

Quirky?

Today -- the eleventh day of the eleventh month -- in the United States of America, we celebrate Veteran's Day. (Draw your cursor over and click on this very link. You'll find out why the date of November 11 was chosen to honor our Veterans and service men and women of today and yesterday.

I received a phone call a few weeks ago from a fellow business woman...asking me if I would be interested in being involved with something new. (Boy! Did she know how to grab my attention!) She called it the Veteran's Day Extravaganza.

If you're in my area and would like to take in a new event -- open to anybody and everybody -- stop by the CrossRoads Golf Course of Carrington, North Dakota. From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. there will be soup and sandwiches (available with your donation)...a pie and ice cream social ($3...what a steal!)...representatives from the National Guard...Boy and Girl Scouts...and a few area business women (like yours truly!), sharing their passions. And there's a whole lot more that I didn't mention!

Even if you do not catch the 11:11 on your clock, I hope that you will take a moment or two today to say a few silent wishes -- or better yet, prayers -- for the service men and women of our great nation!

A peaceful Veteran's Day to you, America!

feeling sheepish

2010-11-09T09:30:00.000-06:00

I admit it. I use this quite often: Thesaurus.

It's fantastic! Honestly. Sometimes you just have this word -- like sheepish -- and you want to either see what the meaning truly is or perhaps use another word in its place.

I know. I could use the Dictionary...and I use that fairly often as well. But the Thesaurus? It's just fun! And better yet, it consists mainly of single words and/or phrases. It's often just exactly what I need.

Do you ever check out -- or investigate, rather -- the Thesaurus?

Isn't this little creature just sweet! He/she was created by my friend and quilting client, Julee H.

Julee did a beautiful job of hand stitching the eyes and blanket stitching around the entire body. And oh...do you see those cute -- charming, rather -- little grey swirls on the sheep's white wool? Hand stitched!

As a machine quilter, I knew that I would not be able to precisely guide my longarm machine and follow Julee's stitching lines exactly. So instead, I utilized my creative license and swirled around, echoing her handwork somewhat...yet not quite.

Julee mentioned that she was going to frame -- or cage...umm...no, definitely frame -- this little character. What a great alternative for a small wall hanging-sized quilt!

Do you ever do anything avant-garde with your quilts as a finish?

time line

2010-10-29T09:00:00.005-05:00

Today is Friday!

Yet, I keep thinking back to a phone call from a dear friend. That was Monday.

She kindly asked if I was "...doing anything for yourself, Darcie?" How sweet is that! Such concern...genuine interest.

And yes! I was actually in the process of felting a hat that I crocheted. It was created from a very special Alpaca yarn that I had received as a gift from my sister-in-law...nearly a year ago. I told my dear friend that I would surely post a picture. Soon!

I tried. That was yesterday.

But I must admit. I just do not have a good knack for photographing myself! It must take practice. So instead...I pointed the camera in the direction that I know best.

And this...is now.

trading spaces

2010-10-26T08:30:00.002-05:00

Do you ever have those days...when random thoughts are shooting through your mind...left and right and back and forth?

The weather. Bills. School work. Past conversations. What you're going to prepare for dinner. Color. Last summer's family trip. The present cold snap. Why they call a cold snap a cold snap.

You just cannot seem to focus.... And you have no idea why you're so spacey about things.

I am so there.

Oh well!

There's always tomorrow....

seeing is believing...believing is seeing

2010-10-25T12:00:00.001-05:00

What beauty at every turn!

My daughters and I recently took a little trip out to the western portion of our state to visit my brother and sister-in-law at their ranch.

The photo above shows a scoria rock formation that is within walking distance of their home. As one is walking towards it, a heart shape can be drawn with the eyes...although this is quite close in range.

My brother thought that I was a bit off-kilter for taking pictures of...rocks.

I said, "...but it's texture!"

You get me, right?

This next photo happens to be a picture of the only walking bridge that crosses the Little Missouri River. How cool is that! And we even got to walk on it.

Eek!

We were driving around the area, talking about the wildlife. My brother no more than finished his story about the big horn sheep in the Badlands, when moments later we spotted this group far up a rugged butte's edge.

What were the odds!

And I must apologize for my lack of expertise in photographing the night sky...but this full moon (and one visible star) was absolutely breathtaking!

It is truly God's country, through and through.

mums the word

2010-10-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

"Seal up your lips and give no words but mum." Shakespeare in Henry VI, Part 2, 1592.

Not really. I don't mind at all. I've never minded...not that I can remember anyway.

"What?" you ask?

My age. It just doesn't bother me.

I'm usually not one to advertise the day of my birth. (But it is today! Yea!) And this picture is just too cute not to share.

Not because it's me! (I'm not like that at all. At. All.) To me, it's cute just because it's a photo of a little child (standing still!) in a garden full of gorgeous chrysanthemums.

Plain and simple.

Like me! *wink*

a penny for your thoughts

2010-10-02T07:45:00.001-05:00

While walking my puppies, I often have my eyes scanning the surface of the country gravel roads, looking for the perfectly unique, earthy, funky, got-to-have-it-in-my-collection rock.

The color usually doesn't matter to me. It is often about the texture.

No...wait. It is definitely about the texture!

And then...I spied this piece. It is not a rock. But it does have me scratching my head in wonder.

It definitely has texture. It screams texture. And it most certainly is funky and unique.

Any ideas on what it could be?

It is fairly heavy metal. Rusted and aged.

It's obviously a broken piece from something larger.

At its longest point, it measures about 3 inches...and the widest is approximately 2 inches.

And it's oh-so cool! Honest Abe!

this message brought to you by the oo sound

2010-09-29T09:00:00.003-05:00

Are you saying "What...is she talking about now?"

Well...I was preparing this blog in my mind first before turning on my computer, when I realized that there are a lot of *oo* sounds in my words.

Like this yarn. It is called Bamboo Ewe from Stitch Nation/Debbie Stoller.

Great stuff! I don't know if I have a favorite yarn content yet...but this one would definitely be up in the rankings!

Cool color too, yes?! Sprout.

This is a Double Cowl that I crocheted for a commissioned order. Now, I realize that some of you -- because of your geographic location -- wouldn't dream of wearing a cowl. But just think of this...crocheted (or knitted, if you please) in a luxurious silk.

Mmm. Oooh.

Have you ever worn silk around your neck? I have. Luscious. Sensual. Comforting.

What I really wanted to share with you though, is a Haiku that I wrote earlier this summer.

I actually entered a contest that was being sponsored by a yarn company. And I was so sure of myself. I even had the grand prize of a gift certificate already spent in my mind.

I should have known better. Things generally don't happen quite like that. My Haiku was not chosen.

I still loved my Haiku though. Would you like to hear it?

Cool hook in my hand
Warmed by rivers of fine yarn.
Crocheted paradise.

Of course now as I'm writing (typing), I'm seeing that the *oo* sound really didn't show up all that much.

But it's still a fun title, don't you think? So...we'll go with that anyway, if you don't mind.

in reverse

2010-09-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

It's been quite chilly and wet here in North Dakota for the most part of September. And although I do love and appreciate the *W* word (hint: _inter)...I thought that I might try some reverse psychology on Mother Nature.

See...between you and me, I'm just not ready for *it* yet. Not yet.

I fancy the thought of many more sunny Autumn days ahead...filled with crisp, clean air...gorgeous color.

But...if I were to have a conversation with Mother Nature...I'd let Her know that She cannot scare me with Her flurries to the North last week.

I'd tell Her that I will just keep drying off my scampering puppies, each and every time that they come in from the damp outdoors...smelling like wet puppies.

And I am ready for Her chill with my crocheted hats and scarves...and I will learn how to make mittens for my hands. I will continue to wear layers of long sleeved shirts and sweaters and boots.

And I will start...umm...finish, rather...all of the Christmas gifts on my list.

Christmas. Oh my! Really?!

Do you think it's working? Am I convincing Her?

Or...myself?

barn raising

2010-09-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

JunkFest. That's what they call it.

They, being four amazingly talented ladies and their supportive families...and then some.

And I was blessed to be a small part of it too, this past Saturday, September 11.

Here is a collage of my stall:

Please check out this slide show (at the top of the page) that was created to journal just a portion of some of the activities of the day.

I hate to keep repeating myself, but I was walking on clouds! What a grand time!

baby steps

2010-09-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Mention the word Ravelry to nearly anyone that is even slightly internet savvy, loves yarn, and either crochets or knits (or both) and you will have yourself a conversation that could go well into the night. And then some.

So what is it, you ask? Ravelry's Google definition: Ravelry is a community site, an organizational tool, and a yarn & pattern database for knitters and crocheters.

It's been known to change lives!

I discovered a sweet little pattern for baby slippers on Ravelry. Like any pattern -- crochet or otherwise -- that I seem to run across, I modified it ever-so slightly to fit my needs...snagged (pun not intended) some scrap wool yarn from my collection...and away I went! With the help of a quick automatic machine washing (my definition of wet felting/fulling) and minor shaping...voila!

Yes...I know. There are two different colors of yarns here. Like I said, it was scrap yarn. And I was just trying the pattern out for size, so to speak...so I was not concerning myself too much with the yarn choice.

I'm quite pleased. I think they're as cute as a baby's ______!

But I'll let you finish the sentence....

outside my comfort zone

2010-09-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

Some days more than others, I can sense it: My favorite season, Autumn, is just around the corner!

I love everything about Autumn. The colors...the scents...the winding down and seasonal slumber of all things in nature.

Doesn't this little Halloween-inspired quilt just put a smile on your face? It's fun, isn't it! My client, Bonnie N, made it for her daughter.

I took the liberty of being a little more daring and sometimes downright zany with my machine quilting stitches and treatments. It was a fun challenge for me to "think outside the box" as they say.

I could see this quilt being displayed before Halloween. And long after, too! After all, you see black cats on any given day. And bats. And crooked houses.

And spider webs. Yes...I'm afraid so...they're an everyday sight here!

Monsters though? I'm not so sure....

side by side

2010-09-03T05:00:00.002-05:00

We agreed. This was a place that we definitely want to go back to and spend more time in. Such natural beauty and interesting stories, rich with gold-mining history from the area.

Some say at night it almost comes alive.

Yes, it's a cemetery. The Mount Moriah Cemetery in Deadwood, South Dakota to be exact. It is the peaceful resting place of...well...all those who are resting there. Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane, to name a few.

You think I'm joking, don't you! I'm not. I promise.

Oh...and what about the two pictured here? They're no Wild Bill or Calamity Jane. That is yours truly, the October's Child, and her sweet husband of 22 years.

Twenty two years today! Yes...on September 3, 1988, I married my best friend.

And I'd go anywhere with him!

family comes first

2010-09-01T05:00:00.002-05:00

When I first unveiled this quilt from its shipping package, I was pleasantly taken aback by the luscious fabrics...each individual piece as well as the sum.

For me, the quilt had a very cottage-like feel. Comforting.

I was more than ready to stitch my Freehand Fancy Feathers, which just happened to be what the creator of this quilt and my client, Sandy W., had requested.

When Sandy contacted me about machine quilting this quilt for her, she said that she was making it to be given away during her family reunion festivities.

My first thought? "Wow! What a tremendous gift to make!"

And likewise, what an exceptional gift to have as a reminder of family fun! A true heirloom.

name calling

2010-08-30T05:00:00.002-05:00

All computer monitors are not created equal. This, I know. But I still must ask, what color do you see here? Or to better phrase that, "What would you call the main color that you see here?"

Grey? Or gray, rather? (Another question: How do you spell grey/gray?)

Taupe?

Putty, perhaps?

Me? I think that I will call it putty.

Just pretty, maybe.

Pretty putty!

I love so many of the grey scale fabrics that I see in stores lately. I see sophistication when I see these colors.

Ooh...and what better than a pop of red to accompany it!

So speaking of pop...what do you call a carbonated beverage where you live?

A pop? Or a soda? Soda pop?

***ADDENDUM***

I just thought that I had better clarify: The quilt that you see here belongs to my sister's quilt store.

waiting room

2010-08-28T08:30:00.001-05:00

I was thinking the other day -- as I often do, believe it or not -- about my own fabric tastes and how they've evolved. Changed.

Or moreover, how I have evolved. And changed.

You would think that some of my fabric would get old. Outdated. And I suppose to some standards, they may be just that. Some folks may get a glimpse of my collection and turn up their noses.

Hmph. Like I care!

Every so often, I take the time and rummage through my own unfinished objects. (UFOs, as we quilters like to joke.) I seem to fall in love with some of those oldies all over again. Whether it be the fabric contents or the process or the marriage of the two...I can smile and become smitten once again!

Like this little piece for instance. I know that it has been in the last decade that this project was started and the top was finished.

But then, for no true reason...it sat. Folded. Lying amongst other velveteen rabbits, so to speak. Waiting and wanting and needing so, to be loved again.

Fast forward....

Ah-ha! The time had arrived! This past July, my oldest brother surprised us all and (finally) asked the love of his life -- his best friend -- to take his hand in marriage. Praises...we were all elated!

I then knew exactly what little quilt in my portfolio would make a sweet gift for the two of them to share in their lovely home. The only thing that I need to do was press out the fold lines. Machine quilt it. Bind it. Package and send it.

Some things are just worth waiting for!

hunky-dory

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

I wasn't even sure if that was really a word. But sure enough...it's right here.

Just what I thought: Satisfactory. Fine.

Usually, I stay pretty positive and upbeat -- I try, anyway -- about my workday. But there are often those little "what was I thinking" moments. Or "why did my body go that way and my brain the other way?"

So you see...not every moment is hunky-dory.

Like the following close-up photo displays.

Notice how I was supposed to be guiding my machine in a clockwise fashion...to stitch those swirly, hook-like designs?

By the way...just in case you do not know...I freehand pretty much everything (with the exception of the template-followed Swirls and Baptist Fans). So no...every design is not a cookie cutter resemblance of the next design.

So then what, you ask? Well...I unsew. Reverse stitch. Rip out stitches. Frog stitch (rippit rippit). How ever you like to define it. And then...get right back and hopefully perform the tast correctly!

Now we're talkin'!

contrary to what you might think

2010-08-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

That's a cool word, isn't it? Go ahead. Say it with me.

"Contrary."

Is anybody listening to you...wondering why you're talking to yourself?

What do we have here? Log cabin blocks, pieced in a liberated fashion. You know...wonky.

Pair that concept with the straight lines (freehanded...no rulers involved) of the machine quilted stitching. Contrary in nature, wouldn't you agree?

Despite your possible thought that I am now going to share with you which of my clients is responsible for this little number....

"On the contrary!"

It is my own! Hurray!

an apple a day

2010-08-10T09:00:00.001-05:00

I've been been bitten by the finishing bug.

This is my own little wallhanging. Even my own little design.

The only fabric that is not an October's Child hand dyed is the dot fabric. I do like to mix both hand dyeds and commercially printed fabric in one given piece. Element of surprise, you know...that's my thing!

I cannot even remember how long ago I machine appliqued and pieced this. It's been...awhile.

No matter though. Now? It's finished!

Now I know what you've all been talking about. How good it feels to actually finish something. To be able to check off an unfinished object (UFO) from the list.

Ah...just what the doctor ordered!

happy camper

2010-08-05T10:30:00.003-05:00

No, I've not been away, touring the country in a mobile home. Or a car. Or bike...or horseback or any other mode of transportation.

There are really no excuses for my absence on my blog. Thank you though, for waiting for me ever so patiently! I am back on track!

It's not very often -- hardly ever, really -- that I take on a commissioned quilt project. And by a commissioned project, I am referring to the creating of the quilt, beginning to end.

Pre-washing the fabric. Pressing it. Cutting it. Reading the pattern.

Re-doing the pattern because it's got issues. Re-cutting and re-designing because of the pattern's issues...which thus, equaled a shortage of fabric. (Ugh! That was so not in my plans...but I just rolled with the punches.)

Piecing. Machine quilting. Machine stitching the binding. Hand stitching the binding.

And the whole while that I was working on this project, I kept thinking to myself that I should be snapping step-by-step photos.

That's what everybody does these days. But did I?

Nope!

So...this is it! The final product. It is now in the hands of its rightful owners...and I'm supposing that we're all pretty happy campers!

sun and sand

2010-07-15T08:30:00.002-05:00

That's what came to my mind when I first laid eyes upon this sampler quilt. It belongs to my client, Julie -- of Floribunda Quilts -- from sunny California.

Look at all of those beautiful, elegant white and cream and beige and tan colored fabrics Julie used. What a collection!

And the orange fabric in the sashing? The sunscapes here on the North Dakota prairie are often saturated with many shades of orange...from pale yellowish orange all the way to a pinkish-and-sometimes-almost-reddish orange.

I can only imagine what the California sky might display! I have to wonder if Julie was inspired by her coastal nuances.

Both Julie and I agreed that my Baptist Fans would complete the calming look of her sampler quilt. Now that I see the photographs, their shape reminds me of ripples in the water...or wave-impacted sand on a beach's shores.

So, please tell me. Has nature's simple beauty inspired you as of late?

he leads me beside quiet waters

2010-07-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sweet Lucky girl.

Rest in peace, good friend. We were the lucky ones....

sunshine...on my shoulders makes me happy

2010-06-29T08:30:00.001-05:00

Yes...another song-inspired post. This time, it's from the late John Denver.

Beautiful song and lyrics, yes...but the reason for me that the tune comes to mind is that this quilt evokes sunshine and happiness to me.

Do you ever get that? A certain thought or emotion comes over you when you see a particular quilt or another piece of art? Happens to me more than I can tally...but then, I see a lot of quilts in a year's time!

And I am certainly not complaining!

The woman behind the piecing and creating of this quilt is Jean S...a new client of mine. Now hear this: She is a novice!

I know. What talent! The colors. The pattern. The workmanship. I am anticipating some pretty grand works-of-art coming from Jean's sewing room.

Jean suggested that I stitch my Freehand Fancy Feathers. I, of course, couldn't have agreed more. I feel that together, we made sweet harmony. In a quilt.

good good good...good vibrations

2010-06-17T08:30:00.003-05:00

The Beach Boys have never been a preferred group of mine...but sometimes their simple song lyrics just strike a chord with me.

Good vibrations. Do you ever walk into an establishment and immediately feel the good vibes that abound there?

I've mentioned a time or two in the past few weeks that I got to attend Spring Quilt Market with my sister, right? One of the many things that I love about getting away with my sister is that she panders me with wonderful and electrifying restaurants in which to dine in.

This is one of those such places. The News Room. Please do click on that provided link. Their website describes them much much better than I could ever possibly convey.

Let your fingers (or your computer mouse) take you on a little journey!

Go.

Now.

Pretty please....

Here it is again...The News Room.

And you must...please...click on the link that says "AS SEEN ON TV!"

So? What did you think?! Talk about fun!

I'd recommend that the next time you find yourself in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota...see for yourself! Will the News Room be on your list of good-vibes-eateries?

Oh, and by the way...the bathrooms truly are a trip...but the food and coffee? Mmm-mm.

`a la carte

2010-06-11T05:00:00.003-05:00

They're all alike, in my book. Artists. Whether they're chefs or painters or clothing designers...quilters or authors...jewelers, carpenters, landscapers.... To me, they all think very similarly.

Artists of any type conjure up an idea...inspired from heaven knows where. His or her surroundings. Another form of art. An "I wonder what would happen if..." sort of moment. You name the stimulus...and an artist can be inspired to create his or her work.

As a hand dyer, my color palette can be inspired by a number of things. But this particular quilt's hand dyed fabrics came about because of the beautiful commercially printed fabric that I only purchased a half yard of.

I know. Half of one yard. Of gorgeous fabric.

Silly of me, wasn't it! But it was just enough to enhance a Trip Around The World center -- pieced of my October's Child hand dyed gradations -- with the commercial fabric acting as corner triangles.

I pieced it all up, nearly effortlessly. It was just all meant to be.

Meant to be...sitting in my pile of unquilted projects for awhile, that is.

Until....

An e-mail arrived from our Putnam House coordinator...stating that there was a need for baskets -- of any creative theme -- that could be used in the silent auction to take place during June's Wine Tasting event.

"Ah-ha!" I knew exactly what I would use as the inspiration to create my own October's Child donated basket! Don't you just love those "ah-ha" moments!

Please...be my guest...and click on the photo below. You'll be able to see the basket in much finer detail.

This is what I came up with....

And before I let you go any farther...please be assured that I do not allow what the following photo illustrates to happen to any of my clients' quilts.

I call him my little side dish.

This was just too adorable of a photo to keep to myself. I had to share!

it's all just a blur now

2010-06-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

Yikes. Hard on the eyes, isn't it! I guess I must have been too excited to stand still! I kept saying to myself "I've got to take pictures...they'll only believe it if they see it."

The following picture is just a very, very small portion of the lines of quilt enthusiasts that awaited the opening of the doors. I think I could be safe saying that there were at least 5 times more bodies than what this photo shows....

(I'm quite sure that that's actually an understatement.)

Following an action packed, mind exploding day of educational Schoolhouse sessions, which kicks off the first official day of every year's Spring Quilt Market, the evening is set aside for the one and only Sample Spree.

In a nutshell...I would probably compare it to a quilter's rock concert-of-sorts. Such ENERGY...in capital letters!

I haven't a clue...but I would love to know the actual number of bodies that the Minneapolis Convention Center housed on that particular evening.

The next picture is again, just a teaser. This is one corner of the massive room housing Sample Spree.

Just look at all those bags!

Oh quit! You know that I mean shopping bags.

Truly a shopping rush.

in a round-about manner

2010-06-07T05:00:00.003-05:00

I've noticed that we quilters definitely have a whole vocabulary all of our own. Words and phrases like...fat quarter. Block party. String quilts. Free motion. Stripping. Dog ears. Charm pack. Longarm. Flimsy. Stitch in the ditch. Stash. UFOs.

We all know what we're talking about when we mention these. But does the common person know? Just use your imagination. Put a few of these words together in one sentence and we could -- and more than likely, do -- raise a few eyebrows!

Like Round Robin. You totally know what I'm speaking of when I mention those words, don't you! That is, if you're a quilter...or perhaps often find yourself in the good company of a quilter.

A Round Robin quilt certainly has stories to tell, don't you think? (Ah...stories to tell. Another phrase that may only make sense to a tried and true quilter, right?!)

My client, Julie, from sunny California -- of Floribunda Quilts fame -- took part in a Round Robin that began awhile back...and this is her final product. Isn't it fabulous!

Julie mentioned that the project all began with a hand dyed fabric pack purchased all the way from Australia. Yes, the Land Down Under. Did I not mention that this quilt could tell stories!

Okay quilters...get your game on! Can you think of any words or phrases (that I've not yet mentioned) that we have our own special meaning to? Please show and tell.

the city of lakes...

2010-06-05T14:00:00.006-05:00

Minneapolis.

And during the weekend of May 20-23...it was the city of anything quilt-related. Minneapolis was the host to this year's Spring Quilt Market. And I got to attend it with my niece and sister-who-owns-the-quilt-store!

Boy, did we bring home some fabulous things for the store. And ideas. My head is still spinning.

What a great time I had! And although I had my camera with me nearly all of the time...few pictures of quilts came home with me.

Eek! Isn't that insane?! (I know I know....) But goodness, just where would I have begun?

(Ooh...but please click on this photo collage to enlarge.)

hook, line, and sinker

2010-05-20T05:00:00.001-05:00

Meaning: I fell for it.

No. We are definitely not talking about the sport of fishing here. Fishing to me usually meant mosquitoes. Or sun- and windburn. And patience...which I usually ran short of due to the mosquitoes biting my parched skin.

A couple of weeks ago, I tried my hand at thread crochet. Just before Mother's Day, to be exact. I had purchased a couple of books for my Mom and thought that a dainty little book thong (book marker) would make a nice, handmade addition for her Mother's Day gift.

It was fun to work on! That particular day, it happened to be a bit rainy outside...so as the little pooch was taking his daily walk on the treadmill, I sat next to him and crocheted. And cheered him on, of course!

I think I'll find myself doing a bit more thread crochet in the future. It'll be quite portable and fit nicely into my handbag...which is always a plus.

So.... How about you? Do you like to fish? *giggle*

No...actually...what I really mean to ask is: How about you? Do you like to take anything along in your handbag to occupy your time during idle moments?

...like the sun

2010-05-18T05:00:00.002-05:00

On any given day, what are some of the things that make you smile?

A fun song that you can't get out of your head?

How about a visit or phone call or e-mail from a friend? Surely that brings a smile to your face!

Swirls...stripes...plaids?

Polka dots? Polka music?

Presents in peculiar wrapping?

Flowers? Weeds?

A day off? Or maybe even a day on?

I feel so lucky. Besides all of the extras that come and go during any one of my given days...I get to work with so many smile-inducing quilts!

Oooh. Quilts. Do they make you smile?

This particular one was pieced by the girls at the Comforts of Home quilt store. Look at all of that fun fabric!

I used my Star Dance quilt template for the machine quilting...but instead of stitching the stars, I opted for some freehand flowers in a contrasting variegated thread color. It was a fun change of pace for me.

And yes. It made me smile!

So, tell me please...what made you smile today?

sweet april showers

2010-05-10T14:15:00.000-05:00

...do spring May flowers!

Well...honestly...these flowers actually were already blooming in March!

Not typical for North Dakota, you're saying? How true!

I didn't have to wait for Mother Nature to provide me with these flowers. I am lucky enough to have, right at my fingertips:

The wonder of a longarm quilt machine;
a trusting quilt client and friend;
her gorgeous quilt top...along with a backing and batting;
and my own collection of some fine thread.

Oh...and another prime component: Time...just as needed in any garden.

My client and friend -- sweet Julie of JulieKQuilts -- entrusted me with this quilt. It's quite special to her. You can read about it here, on her blog post. And while you're there -- in Texas...with Julie -- you may as well scroll around for awhile and visit.

I love the stories that accompany the quilts that I receive from my clients! The stories often bring true life to the quilts...and upon hearing them, I become better acquainted with the talented, fine people that are creating them. Our business relationship between quilter and client often grows into a friendship.

If you'd like, you may click on any of the pictures here on my blog for a closer, more detailed view of Julie's fabrics or my machine quilting.

Don't go too close though...the flowers may just tickle your nose!

happy mother's day!

2010-05-09T05:00:00.002-05:00

A man's work is from sun to sun, but a mother's work is never done. ~Author Unknown~

My Mom...myself...my Dad. Happy day!

she shows she sews

2010-05-07T10:00:00.002-05:00

Once in awhile, I really do sew and quilt something for myself!

Well...it is sort of for myself.

In preparation for teaching a class, I usually like to make at least a few blocks from the spoken project to refresh my memory about the do's and do not's. This helps me to get my mind wrapped around the process again...to hopefully better my instruction to my students.

This process being paper piecing...using the tissue paper foundations from Little Bits. It is called "Star Steps."

A common question that I get asked about paper piecing projects is "...but isn't this a lot of waste?"

"Mmm...I honestly don't think that there is a lot of waste...but that's just my personal opinion. I guess the trade-off for a bit of waste would be the precision of the seams."

You have to choose your battles in this world, don't you think?

Look at this! A total finish!

Hand dyed fabric. Check.

Pieces cut and then labeled (for better organization). Check.

Pieced and cut/trimmed some more. Check.

Stitched together. Check.

Machine quilted and bound. Check!

Labeled. Ch.... Oops...not so fast!

She hand dyes fabric. She sews. She teaches. She machine quilts. She seldom labels.

She's still happy!

every cloud has a silver lining

2010-05-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Every day, there are lessons to be learned. Blessings in disguise, so to speak.

As with many of us in these modern times, electricity has become a necessity for me. My parents speak of the days when they had none or very little. Stories which almost seem make-believe.

Around here though...these days...it's how I get things done. You too, I'm certain.

A few weeks back, we had to voluntarily turn our power off so that the electrician could work on some power lines that had been damaged. Luckily for me, it was near day's end. I looked around and thought to myself "...hmm...cloudy day, but still some daylight left...what to do, what to do...."

Without much hesitation, I picked up the luscious sock yarn that I had won from Mountain Colors Yarn back in January...February...and my size H (5.0) crochet hook and got busy.

By the way, January and February were months for me to leave behind. I was quite ill with an abscess in my tooth and jaw...yet still found time and energy to blog occasionally. Mountain Colors Yarn was graciously giving away skeins of their hand dyed Crazyfoot yarns. Their only request was to e-mail your intentions, and you were in the drawing.

It turned out that I was one of the lucky few! How exciting to see my name on the list of winners...through my brain fog of painkillers.

Mmm. Divine yarn.

But...as is often with my crocheting, I surrendered the use of an actual pattern. I just decided that I had never finished anything crocheted in a shell stitch yet...so that is what I set off to do.

It was quite a simple, generic shell stitch...but with the dazzling yarn, the equation was quite impressive if I must say so myself.

Ah...speaking of equations. That is something that I hadn't calculated so well. I was seeking to have just enough yarn for a longish...narrow-but-not-so-skinny scarf.

Fail.

One of the many grand things about crocheting: What takes you two days to achieve...can take you two minutes to nullify! Honest.

The unraveling was a piece of cake to do...sad to watch slip by though.

Thus, I began the entwining once again. This time...a very simple fishnet stitch.

And yes, thank you...I had plenty of yarn to finish a scarf in the size that I intended! (There is even leftovers!) I am so excited...it will be heavenly to wear, year 'round!

It has a beautiful drape and feel to it. Mmm...the color. The color. I'm over the moon with it!

Need I say more?

Umm...just one more thing. I was snapping numerous photos...trying to locate the best light to convey the correct color. Can you see in the photo above that my scarf is the intrigue and envy of a little dachshund nose?

where the wild things are

2010-04-26T07:30:00.002-05:00

On any given day here on the plains of North Dakota, we can spot and even perhaps have to slow or stop our vehicle for a variety of wildlife.

Deer. Fox. Raccoons. Coyotes. A multitude of feathered creatures...from the graceful bald eagle to the pheasant...Canadian and snow geese...wild turkeys...and many, many species in between. An occasional and dangerous mountain lion. Buffalo or moose...depending on which corner of North Dakota you're traveling. I've even read that wolves are now a threat and entering the north eastern portion of the state.

Oh...and I should not forget that our lakes and rivers and streams are stocked with an array of fish.

Grizzly bears? Not that I have ever heard. Commanding creatures though, aren't they!

My client and creator of this quilt, Shirley G, shared with me that her son -- to whom she is giving this quilt -- has quite a fascinating story of his own about an intruding bear. I do believe though, that the son was not residing in North Dakota at the time of the bear's visit!

Shirley used a wildlife panel for the center of her quilt...and asked that I spruce things up a bit. I gave the panel dimension by stitching a serpentine-type movement in the border areas. The animals were brought to life with a gentle outlining of their shapes.

If you would like to click your mouse on any of the photos above, you may be able to see that I placed a pine sprig here and there...as if viewing the wild animals through the boughs of a pine tree.

And the flying geese and outer borders? Baptist Fans and some stitching in the ditch.

Shirley was pleased with the look of her finished quilt...and said that she couldn't wait to see the reaction that her son would have to it. I would almost bet that he will be excited...yet not nearly as startled as the subject that inspired this quilt made him!

in any case

2010-04-24T09:00:00.002-05:00

Someone recently asked me if I wore my eye glasses all the time. My reply: "...only when I'm awake."

I actually do not even mind wearing glasses. I've given prescription contacts a thought or two...but my glasses have become "me." I'm not outrageous with my eye glass styles...but I do like them to reflect (ha...no pun intended) who I am.

So this little number? It holds the shades that magnetically clip onto my eye glasses.

A girl's got to take every opportunity that she can to promote what it is that she does, right? Items like this little clip-ons case become a conversation piece. If I pull this out of my purse to insert my little sunglasses attachment, someone might likely say "...and what is that?" Or "...how did you make that?"

Well...at least that's what I'm hoping.

Which reminds me...I really need to have something personal-like that is machine quilted. That is what I do, after all. I have already done machine quilted handbags...machine quilted coffee cozies.... Hmm...do you have any new ideas for me?

And how about yourself...what personal items have you made for yourself lately?

earth day 2010

2010-04-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.

John Muir, 1913, in L.M. Wolfe, ed., John Muir, John of the Mountains: The Unpublished Journals of John Muir, 1938

feeling seven feet tall

2010-04-21T07:15:00.000-05:00

Do you ever volunteer for a project or task...and find yourself simply thinking "...sure...I would really like to be a part of that...." You then find -- as you're actually in the midst of its workings -- it is about to impact you much more than you had anticipated from the beginning?

I am honored to be a small part of the Alzheimer's Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope project. (Please do take just a few moments to click on this link.)

A few months back, a client of mine asked if I would perhaps be interested in donating my machine quilting time and skills in stitching a panel. "Of course...that would be really cool" were my initial thoughts. I was excited...and told her to go ahead and nominate my name as one of the longarm participants!

Then, just weeks ago...two panels (because I asked for two) -- each one, 6 inches wide and approximately 7 feet long -- arrived in my mailbox.

Printed on the wrong side of each rectangle of fabric (click on that link above and you'll be told its significance) were names and the area of their residence. Names from all across the United States...and Canada...and I even spotted a few from Europe on my panels! Of course, I recognized no one...but I noticed immediately there were profoundly more women's names than there were men's.

There was person upon person...some with the words "sister"...or "miss you mom" or another such message printed beneath their name. I knew that each name -- no matter their geographical point of residence -- had a common thread with the next rectangle's entity: Each had battled Alzheimer's Disease.

Also included with my two panels, were empty purple rectangles...in case I had my own names to share. Yes. Sadly...I did.

Of course, the sadness of knowing someone that battled Alzheimer's is always paired with the rejoicing of knowing that they have left this world of confusion and have gone onto a brighter paradise.

I try to stray away from distributing the exact words of any client's remarks of my work...but I cannot help but share this with you. It comes from Kathy D...the coordinator whom I was in contact with throughout working with this project.

She wrote: "I really love soft flowing designs that place the names on the quilts into beautiful settings. Somehow it seems that the people represented can now travel around the country as ambassadors for a cure."

Touching, yes?

So...with the sharing of my own experience with you, have you been curious enough to click on that link that I provided for you in this post? I hope that you will.

I also have a button on my sidebar: Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative. If you click on that...you will be taken to a main menu. From there, you can click on the Traveling Quilt Exhibits and you will find even more information.

This world of technology can be oh-so-confusing, don't you agree? Yet, it can also be equally amazing. To think of what our fingertips and a click of our computer mouse can bring to us!

all in a day's word

2010-04-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

As I was quilting a variety of textures upon this table runner for the Comforts of Home quilt store, I began to think about the words that are printed on some of the pieces of fabric.

(I have told you before: Often times, the simplest of things intrigue me.)

Can you read them?

Java. Bistro. Cafe.

Now...even if you do not find a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee the least bit appealing...don't you just love how those words sound when you say them?

Espresso.

Arabica.

Cinnamon.

Oh...and I know it's not actually printed, per se...but how about the rickrack!

Ah yes...words. Good for the soul.... Stimulating. Fascinating. Enchanting.

So, do tell. Are there any words in your vocabulary that you just -- plain and simple -- love the sounds of?

seeing stars

2010-03-23T14:30:00.001-05:00

Spring is in the air! And -- knock on wood -- the fog here in North Dakota is clearing for the most part. We're once again able to enjoy a star studded sky before slumbering off to sleep. And depending...some of us early risers even see stars in the morning sky as well!

Hey...what better way to celebrate Spring than to attend a quilt class. I've got one coming up fast if you feel like joining in!

It's all set to take place this Saturday, the 27th of March...at the Comforts of Home quilt store. I will be teaching the process of paper piecing to create this little darling. Yes, little. It measures approximately 18" square, give or take.

We will be using the pattern "Star Steps" by designer Cindi Edgerton and her pattern company Little Bits. Of course, I've had to put my own spin on these stars and log cabins...but the Little Bits tissue paper foundations/pattern are still essential! The Comforts of Home will have them in stock for our class.

I will be bringing classtime kits, consisting of my 100% cotton October's Child hand dyed fabrics. You've heard me preach this before, right...that the kits that I create for classtime are not always an exact match as the sample that I've produced beforehand? But they are quite near! For me, hand dyeing fabric is quite like cooking: How boring would it be if everything tasted the exact same, every time?

No worries about any pre-class cutting. We will whiz through that in no time...and we'll be hearing the purr and whir of your machines before you know it!

Just bring your usual cutting tools and rulers (more detailed information can be obtained by phoning the girls at the Comforts of Home). Oh...and the little Add-A-Quarter ruler is a must-have! If you have one of those, please include that in your classtime kit. And have no fear...if you do not yet have an Add-A-Quarter, the Comforts of Home is stocked with them!

Is there apt to be any star-gazing in your future?

happy st. patrick's day...2010

2010-03-17T06:30:00.001-05:00

May you sport vivid green in your dress...

the cheer of Irish in your coffee...

the spring of a leprechaun in your stride...

follow shamrocks along your journey today...with tomorrow unearthing your pot of gold.

fog lights

2010-03-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

We seem to be in a perpetual state of heavy fog here in North Dakota. Day after day after day....

If I wasn't already a self-proclaiming, color-loving person, I certainly would be now! I am so thankful that I am able to wrap myself in color, texture, and art nearly any given workday. A grey day is much more alive and tolerable for me with the addition of these elements.

In my opinion, the quilt that I have pictured -- created by my machine quilting client, Linda W -- is a true specimen of color and texture. It just reads happy, doesn't it!

Using an orange variegated thread, I freehand machine quilted girly things: Flowers...in a variety of shapes and sizes; Leaves; Swirls; Hearts.

Linda made this quilt with her Granddaughter in mind. I would wager that the little darling is enjoying her Grandmother's work at this very moment.

And I would also bet that this quilt would lighten anyone's grey mood, whether young or not-so young.

what's love got to do...

2010-03-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

...got to do with it? What's love but a second hand emotion....

Tell me Tina Turner's song and voice aren't ringing through your mind right now.... Your toes aren't tapping.... You're not swaying in your chair....

Don't you just love when somebody does that to you! (Hateful, aren't I! bahahaha)

Serious now.

I suppose this little quilt was a perfect decoration for Valentine's Day. But if it were my quilt, I believe I would have it displayed every other day of the year as well.

How about you?

The girls at my favorite quilt store -- Comforts of Home -- are responsible for the making of this darling little piece. Great fabrics, don't you agree!

So tell me...do you have quilts that are defined as seasonal...but you still show them off for more than just that particular season or holiday?

pause and reflection

2010-03-08T06:00:00.002-06:00

More like paws...and goodness, there's way too much white furniture in this room, isn't there!

Sorry to have gotten the backsides of little Diesel and big Lucky Girl...but these fur babes move swiftly and I have to take the photo opportunities when I am allowed...and fast!

I can no longer advertise my studio as being pet free. These two lovelies are just a room away from my work space. And even though I find great joy in machine quilting...little Diesel and big Lucky bring many smiles and ab tightening laughter to my days and nights. They are quite a duo!

As always, I will do more than my best to see that each and every quilt leaves here as lint, thread, and now pet hair free as I possibly can.

How about you? Do you share your space with a fur babe...or two?

window of opportunity

2010-02-28T09:00:00.002-06:00

I haven't seen any geese flying up here from the south yet...and I doubt that I will for quite some time. Living in North Dakota, that is one of our first signs of Spring. And what a sight and sound to behold! I love it.

Speaking of flying...it was back in December that I snapped this photo while sitting in my south facing dining area...enjoying the world at my fingertips via my computer.

"Where did January and February go, by the way?"

I loved the sun shining through my window...casting these interesting shadows on my "Christmas Goose" quilt...created from a pattern designed by Thimbleberries.

Flying Geese. Simple.

I must confess that I don't know exactly the date that I finished this quilt...but I do believe that it was probably in the late '90s. Wow. Over a decade ago....

I thoroughly remember that I was completely in love with the whole process: Planning...cutting...piecing...even machine quilting! And I still love it just as much today, if not more, as back then. It may even be safe to say that this quilt would be in my Favorites List...if I had one.

You may also catch a little glimpse of a quilt in the upper right corner. That little wonder was given to me by a very special girlfriend. I love it and her to pieces as well!

So tell me...have you taken the opportunity lately to sit back and enjoy some of the simple things in life that you love?

under the weather

2010-02-10T12:00:00.001-06:00

Yes. I fortunately -- knock on wood -- do not say that very often. But I have been under the weather for much longer than I'd like, that's for sure.

I'm walking, talking, breathing, eating...and all of that good stuff. So this too, shall pass. No worries please. I just wanted you to know that I've not been ignoring you.

Enough of that seriousness. Something much more interesting?

This photo. Kind of cool, isn't it? I snapped it during the Christmas of 2009 storm. We've had so many storms since...I've not been able to keep track, much less name them all. You too?

Anyway...I opened the back door of our garage...and there was this ledge of drifted snow. So I crouched as low as I could and snapped this photo.

Well, in all honesty, I believe I took about ten very similar photos with just slightly altered angles. A girl's got to keep things in perspective, right?

text her...

2010-01-28T08:45:00.002-06:00

Text her. Text her? What?

Don't mind me. I'm just making a play on words...or verbal sounds, rather.

I suppose this truly doesn't make sense in all parts of the world. But for myself, when I say the words "text her" fast enough...over and over...it starts to sound like I'm saying the word texture. Does it work for you?

Texture texture texture.

I know. Simple minds....

When I received this quilt from my good friend and client -- Julee H -- I knew that I wanted to make a play or create movement on the channels (rows) of rectangles and squares.

Perhaps you cannot see the texture all that well in the photo above?

How about in the following photo below....

With my longarm, I freehand stitched simple swirls in the wider channels...and serpentine-style lines in the narrower channels. Julee loved it...as did the special person that she gifted the quilt to!

I feel that with a classy quilt like this -- consisting of geometric lines and gorgeous fabrics -- any style of quilting would have been perfect though.

If it were your quilt, what would you have chosen for the quilting treatment?

And...in getting back to my title...if given the choice in this wide world of mobile phones, would you rather phone someone or text them?

Me? Thanks to my best girlfriend and children...I'm a text(h)er!

riding the storm

2010-01-25T08:45:00.000-06:00

"If you worried about falling off the bike, you'd never get on."

Because I'm in the midst of transferring files -- long story...I'll spare you the details -- from one computer to another...I thought I'd share a photo with you taken during the Christmas 2009 storm. Hard to believe that was a month ago!

Bike ride, anyone?

Oh...and that quote above? Lance Armstrong.

spectator sport

2010-01-12T06:00:00.001-06:00

Just to show you that there's more to me than meets the eye.

Oh. Wow. That was a little much, wasn't it! Please don't choke on your morning coffee, tea or juice.

Actually...what I meant to say was...I do more than just machine quilt.

Here is a collage photo of the fronts and backs of some wool (with silk lining) needle felted Specs Cases that I finished recently:

Yes, thank you! Totally original designs...all my very own.

Suppose you could say that I've always been a one-on-one sort of a girl.

living in the now

2010-01-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

The blocks in this quilt remind me of simplistically wrapped presents...kind of a less-is-more approach to decorating.

Modern. Chic. In vogue. Very...now.

What do you think? Do you see it?

My client who pieced this quilt -- Shirley G. -- gave it as a gift to her son and daughter-in-law as a housewarming present. What a perfect way to begin warming a new house: A gorgeous new contemporary quilt!

I myself have always been drawn to earthy tones. But this. This color scheme has got me really intrigued, I must say!

Shirley asked that the machine quilting be special. I couldn't think of anything more special that my Freehand Fancy Feathers. They create abundant movement in a quilt...without taking away from the design.

Well...that's my opinion, anyway. And Shirley was delighted with the outcome!

Happy client. Happy quilter.

Life is good.

oh baby...

2010-01-04T06:30:00.001-06:00

...it's been cold outside here in North Dakota this new year!

But looking on the bright side: The mercury is above zero Fahrenheit this morning! Granted, only one degree above zero...but we have to remain positive!

My client and good friend -- Julee H -- is always busy creating baby quilts. This is her latest. In fact, I think she mentioned that she was actually a step ahead of the game. "BABY" hasn't even been born yet...which makes using the word "baby" quite genius.

Adorable, isn't it! I absolutely love the color scheme that Julee has coordinated. To me, it's traditional baby colors with a fun, contemporary twist.

I've freehand machine quilted my Star Echo...along with an outlining of the letters to give them added dimension.

So how about you? Do you tend to stay within the traditional boundaries when creating baby quilts? Or do you step out of your comfort zone?

happy new year!

2010-01-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

2010.

When you were a child, did you ever think you'd see it?

Are you making any New Year resolutions?

Turning over a new leaf?

May you find an abundance of joy surrounding you...health abounding you...faith still astounding you.

As Cesar Millan often says..."Live in the now."

Happy New Year to you and yours!

in labor

2009-12-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Some countries have named the day after Christmas -- December 26th -- "Boxing Day."

Here on the Grager farm, we called it "The Day Of Shoveling." (Sorry...I didn't even check Google on this. I wonder....)

But like many labor pains...it's now all forgotten.

Sort of.

got it covered

2009-12-27T09:00:00.000-06:00

One thing for sure...this Winter Storm of Christmas 2009 has placed a nice, heavy blanket of snow over much of North Dakota...if not all of North Dakota.

How about you...what was the weather like for you? Regardless, I hope that your holiday was merry.

I think it was about two weeks ago...I had mentioned to a friend that I kind of was (secretly) hoping for enough snow to cover my landscaping woes.

Check! Done.

I'm thinking that perhaps this garden, though, is displayed for all to see and enjoy.

My client -- Deb C. -- was full of excitement and enthusiasm upon receiving her machine quilted quilt back in her hands. So I'm hoping that the holidays have given her the opportunity to share with others her love for quilting.

That's what we quilters do, right? Share...and infect others with our bug for quilting.

What a great bug to have...winter, spring, summer, or fall!

have yourself a merry little christmas...

2009-12-25T10:45:00.000-06:00

...may your heart be light.

Merry Christmas to all!

theory of relativity

2009-12-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

No science.

Just fine workmanship...terrific fabric...and good color sense. Oh...and a fun pattern never hurts.

That all adds up to one great quilt!

Or two great quilts?

This bed sized quilt was completed by my husband's teen-aged niece...with the machine side assistance of her grandma (my mother-in-law).

A perfect quilt...fit for a teen!

But they didn't stop at one quilt. Having just enough leftovers, the quilt-making duo took the opportunity to go on with the process and construct a table runner for the said teen-ager's mom...who is the daughter of said grandmother...also, sister of my husband...which makes her my sister-in-law.

Are you following?

Not to worry. It's all relative. Which is why I was given the honors of machine quilting both quilts!