And The Winner Is.........

It has been so much fun reading the comments left for my 400+ Followers Thank You Giveaway!  I have been reminded of so many childhood candies that I hadn't thought about in years - Sugar Babies, red hot square suckers, candy necklaces and drawstring bags of golden gum - just to name a few.  It seems that M&M's were by far the most favorite of all the candies listed.

Thank you all again for entering my giveaway but more importantly for being my followers.  I really enjoy writing my blog (well, most days) and sharing little bits and pieces (aka stray stitches) with you.  I hope you all have enjoyed this giveaway and will continue reading in the future.

So, on to the winner of the 6 1/2 yards of fabric.......

With the help of random.org the winner selected is.....

 

Tamara said...

"I love pez too. I always got them for christmas in my stocking.. but my mom wouldn't ever buy them during the year! M&M however were always my favorite... any time of the year! "

Congratulations, Tamara.  I will be emailing you for your snail mail information.

And for all of you who did not win - please do not go away sad.  I will be having another giveaway in the near future!!

Giveaway Reminder!

Just wanted to give you one more reminder about my 400+ FOLLOWER THANK YOU GIVEAWAY! 

Wouldn't you like to win 6 1/2 yards of this fabric.......

If you would, you need to go to the original post 400+ FOLLOWERS THANK YOU GIVEAWAY!

If you leave a comment on this page, it will not count as an entry in the drawing to be held Monday, January 31, at 7:30 AM PST.



Thank you for being one of my followers and good luck!!

Soup For Answers

Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.

~John Ruskin

The sun came out yesterday!  After dense, drippy fog for three days, Mother Nature decided to be kind and let the earth bask in her warmth.  The bad news is that it will probably mean heavy dense fog once again tomorrow morning.  Don't get me wrong, I love the gray of winter and the coolness of the temperatures.  I just don't like the dampness that permeates to your bones the way fog does.  There is just no getting warm when that happens.  Cold toes, cold nose, cold ears, and cold fingers.  Not complaining, mind you, I much prefer it over the endless heat of summer.  More cold weather please, Madame Nature!

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PHOTO FACT OF THE DAY

Dominoes

Domino pieces were historically carved from ivory or animal bone with small, round pips of inset ebony. The game's name comes from the pieces' resemblance to Venetian Carnival masks known as domini, which were white with black spots. These masks were so named, in turn, because they resembled French priests' winter hoods, being black on the outside and white on the inside. The name ultimately derives from the Latin dominus, meaning "lord" or "master."  Domino games have been played by kings and presidents.  The oldest known domino set was found in Tutankhamen's tomb, among the ruins of Thebes.  According to historians, a Chinese set with 32 pieces existed in the year 1120 AD.  The standard Western set of dominoes had always consisted of 28 tiles that display all possible pairs of digits from 0 through 6. Each digit appears eight times in the set.

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APPLIQUE & A QUESTION FOR YOU APPLIQUE VETERANS

I started on my first applique project yesterday.

I traced the pieces onto Heat n Bond Lite and then cut them out.

Here is the collection of fabrics I used.

Here are all the pieces bonded together.  This block will measure 12" square.  It is from the book Count On It from Art To Heart.  I really like how it looks.  However I ran into a problem that maybe you experienced appliquers can help me with......................

Can you see the bubbling in the middle of the bird?  It's right below the bottom of the wing.  No matter what I did I couldn't keep the fabric in that area to stay adhered.  I must admit that my Heat n Bond is probably close to three years old.  Could that have something to do with it?  Does Heat n Bond have a shelf life?  I could use all of the help and suggestions that you might have about this problem. 

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WOOL

Yesterday I received my first order of wool in the mail.

I ordered this sample pack of 5" squares from Material Evidence Shop (an Etsy store) last weekend and it arrived today.  I also ordered a larger piece of a grass green piece.  She shipped that piece nicely rolled in tissue paper to prevent any creasing.  This sample pack will be perfect for the runner I will be working on.  Now I'm just waiting for the white background wool to arrive.

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SOUP RECIPE

How about a recipe today?  I haven't shared one with you for a couple of weeks so I think it's overdue.  With all of the cold weather out there, would you like an easy but very tasty soup recipe?  OK!  This recipe comes from a long time Bakersfield basque restaurant.

Wool Growers Vegetable Soup

(Basque Soup)

INGREDIENTS

3 carrots

2 large potatoes

2 leeks (optional)

1 small cabbage

1 small can tomato sauce

1 Tablespoon salt

2 teaspoons pepper

1 cup chopped onion

1/2 teaspoon thyme

10 cups chicken broth

DIRECTIONS

 Bring chicken broth to a boil.  Slice carrots & dice potatoes - add to liquid.  Saute onions & leeks (sliced) in a little oil.  Add along with seasoning & tomato sauce to broth.  Simmer 1 hour.  Add the chopped cabbage the last 15 minutes to 1/2 hour.  Serve with sour dough bread.

PERSONAL NOTES:

1.  I used an extra carrot or two

2.  I did not, nor never have, added in the leeks

3.  The original recipe called for 1 Tablespoon pepper but that made it way too hot - even DH agreed and he likes things HOT

4.  Reheats well as most soups do.

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TOKYO

I just had to share this picture that AccuQuilt post on Facebook today!  This is the quilt show in Tokyo.  And I thought there were a lot of people at The Road To California.  OMG!

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TODAY'S GOAL

Today I would like to start the blanket stitching around the applique pieces.  I'm a little nervous to do in on the machine but I really want to give it a try - so I will!

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GIVEAWAYS

Yellow Songbird is having a sponsor giveaway.  She is giving away a $20 store credit to My Little Sunshine.  Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this one will end (it wasn't posted).

Ryan over at I'm Just A Guy Who Quilts is having an e-course giveaway.  You could win an e-course from Amanda Jennings.  This giveaway will end Wednesday, February 2nd.

Would you like to win a fat quarter bundle of Dilly Dally?  Then jump on over to Me and My Sister Designs before Thursday, February 3rd.

Carolyn over at The Vegetarian Hunter is celebrating reaching 60 followers!  She is giving away an assortment of darling fabrics in different sizes.  Unfortunately, I do not know when this one ends either :(

Mariliz, over at Mariliz Musings, is having a CSN giveaway!  She is giving away a $25 gift certificate to that wonderful online store.  Mariliz will draw a winner on Tuesday, February 1st.

The end of the giveaway is getting closer!  If you have yet entered my 400+ FOLLOWERS THANK YOU GIVEAWAY it's time to do that.  You don't want to miss out on the chance to win 6 1/2 yards of fabric!!  My giveaway ends Monday, January 31st at 7:30 AM PST.

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FINAL THOUGHT

The weekend is almost here, just a few short hours away.  Mine will be busy.  It will start with our run to the Farmer's Market - lots to buy as I didn't get to go last weekend (went to the quilt show instead).  Then on to a family meeting that is estimated to last 6 hours (oh boy!).  I think I'll take some hand sewing with me - might help calm my nerves.  This won't be a pleasant meeting but maybe I will be pleasantly surprised.  We will have DH's brother and SIL staying with us which is nice as we don't get to see them all that often (they live several hours away).  So part of Sunday will be family oriented too but in a good way.  What are your plans for the weekend?  I hope your will be more relaxing than mine!

At the end of the day, a loving family should find everything forgivable.

~Mark V. Olsen and Will Sheffer, Big Love, "Easter"

It's fantastic Friday - may you find your weekend fulfilling!

Lots Of Blocks!

The nice part about being a pessimist is that you are constantly being either proven right or pleasantly surprised.
~George F. Will, The Leveling Wind

 Yesterday was another successful day.  Wow!  Three in a row.  I'm almost afraid to say anything - I don't want to jinx it.  Why is it that sometimes everything just seems to flow?  No - don't ask - you might jinx it!  No interruptions, no annoying phone calls.  Why - who knows - but don't jinx it.  Tomorrow I may not be so lucky - I'm the eternal pessimist (or so I'm told).  Keep the good thoughts flowing, the fingers moving, and the sewing machine humming.  Good thoughts.  Good vibes.  Let the good times roll!
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PHOTO FACT OF THE DAY

My DH's massive barbecue

To barbecue means to slow-cook meat at a low temperature for a long time over wood or charcoal. In America, barbecue (or BBQ) originated in the late 1800's during Western cattle drives. The cowboys were fed the less than perfect cuts of meat, often brisket, a tough and stringy piece of meat that required five to seven hours of cooking to tenderize. Other barbecue meats used were pork butt, pork ribs, beef ribs, venison and goat.

However, barbecue was not invented in America and no one knows who invented the barbecue. The word 'Barbecue' might come from the Taino Indian word 'barbacoa' meaning meat-smoking apparatus. 'Barbecue' could have also originated from the French word "Barbe a queue" which means "whiskers-to-tail." No one is sure of the correct origins of the word

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BLOCKS X 2

Today I made two blocks!  One for my swap partner at Block Swap Adventure and the other for the Layer Cake QAL.

I made this block for my February swap partner, Munaiba.  She requested the Dutchman's Puzzle block and specified bright colors.  The colors in this block are actually brighter in person.  I hope she likes this block.

This is the 7th block in the Layer Cake QAL hosted by Moose on the Porch Quilt.  This block was designed by Celine Perkins for Perkins Dry Goods.  It is called Spin Wheel.  I stayed with the Sweet and Sour line of fabric from Connecting Threads.  I was pleased with the results.

You will be happy to know that I even put in 1 1/2 hours of quilting on my brown and blue quilt.  I had almost forgotten how heavy and awkward it is to move around a twin size quilt in my mid arm machine!

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PRETTY MAIL

I received three beautiful blocks in the mail yesterday.

This was from one of my January Block Swap Adventure swap partners.  Michelle made this wonderful red, white, blue star block for me.  She also included a couple pieces of the blue sparkly fabric for me.  Thank you, Michelle!

This awesome block was made by Robyn.  She sent my a cute card where she said she thought it might have been a bit above her skill level and that the block is a bit undersized by about an 1/8" all around.  Well, when I measured it, it came out right at 12 1/2" - sounds perfect to me!  Thank you, Robyn!

This amazing block was made by Wendy. It is called Borrow and Lend. Doesn't it highlight the different fabrics beautifully? Thank you, Wendy!

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WINNINGS

Back in January I was notified by Seams Like a Dream Quilt Designs that I had won one of their wonderful quilt patterns.  Well, I completely forgot about it until it arrived in the mail  yesterday.

This pattern is called Crossroads Thru Connecticut.  I look forward to making up the quilt one day in the not so distant future.  Thank you, Kate and Elizabeth!

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 TWO MONTHLY BLOCK SWAPS

Block Swap Adventure

We are just starting up a new month in the swap.  This will be our second month.  Our membership is currently 55 member strong!  If you would like to join this fun group, just click on the link above or on the button on the sidebar, or email Linda (me) at blockswapadventure2@gmail.com.

Shauna has started a new swap called the Barn Door Swap.  We will be officially starting next month on the 14th.  There aren't very many of us yet but membership is still open and we would love to have you join us.  Just click on the link above, or on the button in the right sidebar, or email Shauna at barndoorswap@hotmail.com.  Just let her know that I sent you around. 

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TODAY'S GOAL

Unless I receive an email with another swap partner assignment, I think I just might start a little applique quilt. 

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GIVEAWAYS

Amy's Creative Side is having a Sweet Divinity giveaway!  She is giving away 21 fat quarters of this wonderful line of fabric.  Amy will select a winner on Monday, January 31st.

The Average Quilter is having a giveaway for Ground Hog's Day.  She is giving away a $25 credit at Inchworm Fabrics!  She will draw the lucky winner on February 2nd!

Rose Room Quilts is celebrating her one year blogoversary!  To celebrate, Cindy is giving away 3 darling fat quarters.  This giveaway will end Monday, January 31st.

Country Cabin Thoughts and Crafts is having a giveaway to celebrate her 1 year anniversary!  There's yardage, thread and a book to win.  This giveaway will end Monday, January 31st at midnight.

I Have A Notion is having a follower giveaway.  She is giving away 2 sets of fat quarters - both wonderful.  This giveaway ends Monday, January 31st.

Would you believe I almost forgot to include my giveaway?  Go to 400+ Followers Thank You Giveaway to enter!  You could win 6 1/2 yards of some very pretty fabric.

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FINAL THOUGHT
I can't believe it's almost the end of January!  The first month of 2011.  Only 11 more months to go before we start all over again.  Why does it have to fly by so quickly?  For the young, the days seem to last forever and the years are endlessly long (especially if you are in school).  Then you get a little older and the days float by but the years don't seem to matter.  Once you reach middle age that all changes.  It seems as if the clock has increased its speed and the hours have changed into nano-seconds.  I now know what Mother said was true "Time passes quickly when you are old".

How long a minute is, depends on which side of the bathroom door you're on.
~Zall's Second Law

Thursday - one day out of seven - make it last - make it happy!

Little Things

Home is where you can say anything you like cause nobody listens to you anyway.

~Author Unknown

I could carry on a conversation all day and the only ones around to answer me are my little furry companions, Weasley and Snickerdoodle.  But the only conversation is the one in my head.  In the evenings, my DH is home and will listen to me rattle when he would rather have a little peace and quiet after a long day at work.  I'm really not much of a talker.  In a group I will rarely say a word.  There are only two people I really enjoy talking with on the phone.  I have always been known as 'the thinker'.  Please don't get me wrong - I love having company and enjoy time spent with friends.  But I see nothing wrong with enjoying myself and my thoughts for hours on end.  Am I weird?

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

Tape

Can you tell I have nothing pretty to take pictures of?  Today I thought I would share a little about adhesive tape.  The history of adhesive tape dates back to the 1920's when Richard Drew used cellophane paper to create a tape with an adherent, sticky surface. The first "adhesive tape" was created as masking for use with various industrial products. But, Drew's creation showed promise for other uses in packaging as well. The first came to be called "cellophane tape" owing to the first material used to create it.  When the first roll of "cellophane tape" was sent to a customer in 1930, the 3M company was moved to produce a product known as "Scotch", the more familiar name by which the product is known. However, since the early days, the types of tapes sold today are virtually endless in variety.  Now you know the history of tape.

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ONE FLOWER WEDNESDAY

Today is One Flower Wednesday!  However, today I have two to share.....

This little hexie is for my swap partner in the Inchy Hexagon Flower Swap.  My partner requested her flower NOT be made with batiks, dayglo or brights.  Not my usual course for the little hexies I make for myself.  I found some scraps of fabric from the Cheap Talk line from Connecting Threads.  Can you see the little string of birds around the petals?

I made this little hexie flower as a thank you to Possum Blossom Patchwork.  She sent everybody in the swap group a sample packet of Die-Cut Hexagons.  Wasn't that sweet of her?  This will be winging its way across the ocean to Australia in the next day or two.

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Mug Rug Swap

Yesterday I completed the mug rug for my secret swap partner in the Mug Rug Swap being hosted by Quilting Gallery.   I received my partner information on Saturday.  Checked out her blog but that wasn't really any help so I went with this.......................

I thought it was cheery with the bright wings of the dragonfly and petals on the flower.  I used cross-hatch quilting on the dragonfly side and straight line quilting on the black and white side (right).

Here is the back side.  You can see the quilting a little better.  Cute little scene, don't you think?  I can't remember the name of the fabric line but I made it from one of the fat quarters that I won a while back.  At the time I wasn't sure what I would be able to use such a big print for - but I guess I found a use for it after all.

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FEBRUARY SNOWMAN STITCHERY

Yesterday I also completed my little snowman stitchery.

I'm pleased with how it turned out.  As I mentioned before, I used a Pellon featherweight iron backing before stitching this item.  If you look closely you can still see the little thread ends and knots so I really don't see the advantage to using the backing.  In fact, I found it a lot harder to get out all of the creases and wrinkles caused by the embroidery hoop.  I think I will stick to no backing in the future.

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TODAY'S GOAL

Today I am going to make a block for my partner in the Block Swap Adventure.  If I have some spare time I might be able to cut out the fabric for the Layer Cake Quilt Along.

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GIVEAWAY

The Confused Quilter is having a CSN giveaway!  You could be the lucky winner of a $20 gift code if you enter Staci's giveaway by Monday, January 31st.

Cloth Stitched is having a birthday celebration giveaway.  Char is giving away a beautiful tote bag that she made.  She will draw a winner on Friday, February 4th.

A Quilting Life is having a giveaway thanks to Green Fairy Quilts.  They are giving away a fat eighth bundle of La Petite Ecole.  This giveaway ends Friday, January 28th.

And there's still my 400+ Follower Thank You Giveaway to enter.  If you would like to win 6 1/2 yards of coordinated fabric then please click on the link and enter before Monday, January 31 at 7:30 AM PST.

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FINAL THOUGHT

I still have so many projects that I want to work on.  I'm trying to be good this month and finish all of my swaps and bees before starting another project.  And I still have to quilt the brown and blue quilt.  Maybe if I give it an hour a day - at least it would be something.  But I'm itching to start a cute little block that involves machine applique.  I've only done two machine applique projects before and have decided that this year I would like to make a more conscience effort to advancing my skills in machine applique.  Another thing I would like to do this year is some hand aplique.  I love the look of both types of applique and just need to take the leap.  Wish me luck.

Luck is the by-product of busting your fanny.
~Don Sutton


May your Wednesday be wise, wonderful and wacky!!

Follow The Mystery

Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.
 ~Arnold H. Glasow

I really felt like sewing yesterday!  What a nice change compared to last week.  I attacked my project with a purpose.  The rotary cutter sliced through the fabric.  The sewing machine hummed along.  And all with only one miscut and two seams that had to be ripped out.  I even accomplished more than the goal I set for myself.  I think I'm finally coming out of the January rut.  Took most of the month but I'm well on my way to seeing the sunshine - well, not literally as we were socked in with the old grey stuff today.  The weight is lifting and I feel productive once again!  Hooray!!!!

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

Hershey Kiss

In keeping with the question for my giveaway, I thought a little history on another candy was fitting.

Hershey's Kisses were introduced in 1907. While it's not known exactly how Kisses got their name, it is a popular theory that the candy was named for the sound or motion of the chocolate being deposited during the manufacturing process.  Hershey's Kisses were originally wrapped by hand. Automated wrapping began in 1921. The same automatic wrapping process allowed for the insertion of the distinctive paper "plume", also called a Niggly Wiggly, that the company used to guarantee that consumers were getting the genuine Hershey product, rather than an imitation.  Hershey's Kisses were originally wrapped in silver-colored foil, and were only available in this color for decades. 1962 marked the first year that Kisses were available in different colored foil wrappers: red, green, and silver-wrapped candies were manufactured to coincide with the Christmas season.  I allow myself two Special Dark Chocolate Kisses every afternoon.

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IT'S MYSTERY TIME

Yesterday I worked on the latest block from the Designer Mystery BOM from Fat Quarter Shop.  Won't you try to guess what it will be as I go along?

These were all of the cuts that needed to be made.  One block had to be re-cut as I made it too big the first time around.

Here are the first four blocks assembled.  I don't think you probably have a guess just yet.

Here are the next two blocks assembled.  Sort of looks like a skirt and legs, doesn't it.

Another block assembled.  No clue yet.

Now those last three blocks are made into one big block.  Looks sort of like a steamship on the ocean - but it isn't.......

Made these two with fussy cuts........

And one more set with a fussy cut.  Why is the bird standing on his nose?

Had to make two of these.......

Do you think you might know what it is now.  See, the bird is no longer on his nose but flying high above.....

I bet you had already figured it out.  This is block 8 in the series and is called "Welcome To Our House".  I had fun with all of the fussy cutting for the windows.  Did you notice that I even fussy cut the roof and have Santa with his reindeer front and center?

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ROAD TO CALIFORNIA PURCHASES

I just couldn't resist making a few purchases at the quilt show on Saturday.  I saw so many things that I would have loved to have.  A long arm machine......an Accuquilt GO! Cutter.....quilting kits.......thread kits......and so much more.  I ended up buying......

This little pattern called Garden Fancies by Nutmeg Hare.  It is a table runner to be made out of wool.  I ordered the wool yesterday and can't wait for it to get here.  For those of you who work with wool, where do you purchase your wool online?

I couldn't resist this darling little wool table runner pattern either.  This one is called An Autumn Mood - also my Nutmeg Hare.  I will order the wool for this project in a few months. 

And then I purchased this little fabric packet to make a miniature wall hanging.  They were out of the pattern but I have it on back order and should be receiving it in the next couple of weeks.  The packet comes complete with the buttons and fabric you need to complete the top as well as the backing & binding.  This fabric goes with........

Isn't it just too precious?  It works up to a 12" square.  I love this little block.  Oh, and I bought the metal stand too!  The kit and pattern come from The Wooden Bear Co.  I guess I'll be ready for Halloween when I get this and the table runner made.

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TODAY'S GOAL

Today I will be making the 2nd mug rug for my secret swap partner.  And, if I have time,  I will finish up my little February snowman stitchery (ran out of time yesterday).

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GIVEAWAYS

Not too many new giveaways.  If you have a giveaway you would like me to include on my blog, please contact me and I will put in on the next posting.

Housewife Eclectic is having a giveaway.  How would you like to win a $25 gift certificate to CSN stores?  If you would, you must enter by Sunday, January 30, at midnight.

The Quilty Home is giving away 2 charm packs!  And not just any charm packs but 2 charm pack of Hoopla by moda.  Jen will draw the winner on Monday, January 31st.

Blushing Rose is having a beautiful giveaway.  She is giving away a wonderful tea cup, a gorgeous insulated tea cozy, and a sachet of gold tea sugar.  To win this lovely set you must enter by Sunday, January 30th.

400+ FOLLOWERS THANK YOU GIVEAWAY is still happening!  You could win.....

6 1/2 yards of fabric.  Doesn't it look luscious?  Just click on the link above and follow the instructions to enter.

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FINAL THOUGHT

Do you ever feel like you need more hours in the day?  I've finally decided that there are just enough to keep me from getting into trouble.  I find that if I work too long then that is when I start making mistakes.  Too much pressure can cause those mistakes to happen too.  Well, so can lack of concentration - which is usually the case for me.  If we had more hours in the day then just think how long the work week would be.  Our weekends would be longer but do you really think you would be that much more productive?  Would you use those hours to sleep?  I will keep my 24 hours in the day and use what hours I can to create.

Don't say you don't have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresea, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.

~Life's Little Instruction Book, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Today is Tuesday - make it YOUR terrific day!!

California Quilt Show & A Little Bit More

How is it that our memory is good enough to retain the least triviality that happens to us, and yet not good enough to recollect how often we have told it to the same person?

~François Duc de La Rochefoucauld

Have you ever not told something important to someone because you are sure you already have?  I seem to do that a lot with my DH.  I'm home all day thinking of different things to tell him or to remind him only to have him come home and not remember any of it.  And then he will question me about something and my answer is "I told you about that, remember?".  When in all reality I probably had that discussion with him in my head.  I don't like bothering him at work and bombarding him with endless emails.  Notes sometimes help but I can put a sticky note up in plain sight and then totally look past it for days until it is no longer relevant.  So, the next time he hears my normal response of "I told you about that" - maybe I really haven't.  Sorry, honey!  Or I do remember to tell him something but I've already told him that something 3 different times.   Does this ever happen to you?

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

My first Camellia of the year

This is my absolute favorite Camellia.  Unfortunately, I can't remember it's name.  It looks so delicate and reminds me of fine china.  Few plants introduced to America have a richer historical or more romantic appeal than does the camellia. First discovered in China in the 17th century by Fr. George J. Camellus, or Kamel, Moravian Jesuit, plants were introduced to England in 1739 by Lord Petre.  When you name someone Camellia what does it mean?  Camellia comes from a tribe in Antarctica called the "hensheig" they were known to be part of a wolf pack. The wife of the tribe was named Camellia which means leader of the wolves.  When you give Camellia's as a gift it can mean:  1) Admiration; Perfection; Good Luck, Gift to a Man   2) A pink Camellia means Longing for you  3) A red camellia means You're a Flame in My Heart  and 4) A white camellia means You're Adorable.

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A LITTLE MORE STITCHING

Friday was not a crafty day for me.  Getting the Block Swap Adventure partners organized was my top priority.  I was able to get a little stitching done in the afternoon.

Only a little bit more and it will be ready to assemble.

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ROAD TO CALIFORNIA 2011

Saturday my DH and I went to Ontario to the Road to California Quilt Show.  After a drive through the valley Tule fog we finally reached blazingly bright sunshine and warmer temperatures.  Our first trek through the buildings was to visit the vendors.  There was lots to see and lots to remember.  My DH was smart enough to mark the catalog with the booths that I wanted to return to.  After all, I had to scan them all before making any purchases - lol!  I returned to three and made purchases at two but I will save that for tomorrow's post.  Today I would like to share some collages of the beautiful quilts and clothing we viewed.  Keep in mind my DH had the camera so you will be able to see what quilts he really admired - well, and me too.

This is but three of the many articles of clothing that were there.  These just happened to be the three that DH found most appealing to him.

There were so many beautiful and unusual quilts!  I don't think I really had a favorite.  The Best of Show is the center quilt with the gold ribbon.  It was truly and amazing quilt.  The quilt to just the left of it had 3D poppies on it.  My DH has always liked the Baltimore style quilt and makes a point of letting me know that they are his favorites each time we go to a quilt show.  Guess I will have to see about making him one someday.

These are a few of my favorite animal related quilts.  The parrot was assembled with raw edge applique adding to the dimension of the work.  The geese had a small prairie seen in the lower portion but we couldn't get a clear shot of it.  The barn animals was just delightful with the little mouse in the bottom center near the piglet.  The blue herons was just as beautiful on the back as it was from the front.  The dog was made from what had to be 1000's of 1" squares (that is a close-up below it of the nose area below it).

These were my favorite miniatures.  I guess I should have held something up next to it so you would have some size of reference.  The leaf quilt was approximately 18" square.  The one below it was even smaller than that.  The hexagon one was made with 1/4" hexies so that will give you some idea of its size.

There was so much to see and so much more I could have shared with you but I think you can get the general idea.  I found out afterward that if I was to share pictures with you on my blog I was also supposed to give the creators credit.  I apologize as I didn't get this information down but please be assured that I'm not trying to take credit of making these myself......only in my dreams.

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LITTLE TIDBITS

Posted by AccuQuilt on Facebook -  ‎"There are 50,000 quilters passing through the Tokyo Dome every day for 9 straight days."  Can you imagine that many people at a quilt show?

Have you ever had a thread show up in your quilting sandwich that just must come out?  Borderline Quilter has the solution to your problem.  I wish I had seen this a while back.  It would have saved me from ripping out hours worth of stitching.  (Click on the link of the blog title for the solution.)

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TODAY'S GOAL

Today I will be making the next block in the 2010 Designer Mystery BOM from Fat Quarter Shop.

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GIVEAWAYS

Sew Jewelry is having a giveaway.  She is giving away a charm pack of Sherbet Pips!  But hurry!  This one ends tonight (January 24) at midnight.

Quilty Giveaways is having a giveaway.  She is giving away a pattern from Paisley Pear Quilts.  This giveaway will end January 29th.

The Polka Dot Chair too is having a giveaway.  If you would like to win a fat quarter pack of Moda then you have to enter by Friday, January 28 at midnight EST.

Lila Tueller Designs is having a great giveaway!  There are three chances to win.  Unfortunately she didn't post a deadline for her giveaway.

Where Women Create is having a giveaway of fabric.  Five yards from Sis Boom!  You must enter by Tuesday, January 25, at midnight MST.

And there is still my 400+ FOLLOWERS THANK YOU GIVEAWAY!  There are two ways two enter to win 6 1/2 yards of Vintage Florals.  This giveaway will remain open until Monday, January 31 at 7:30 AM PST.

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FINAL THOUGHT

Are you ever envious of the quilts you see created by other quilters?  I know I am.  It's not really a jealousy but something more like desire.  Sometimes I think that maybe one day I may make a quilt something like that.  Other times I think "how beautiful" and know that there will never come a day that I could create such a masterpiece.  Then I look at others and think "What a great idea!" - quickly followed by 'I know I will never use it'.  What do you take away from a quilt show?  Ideas?  Innovative processes?  Inspiration? 

Envy is a symptom of lack of appreciation of our own uniqueness and self worth. Each of us has something to give that no one else has.
~Elizabeth O'Connor

IT'S GIVEAWAY TIME!!

Strangers are just friends waiting to happen.

~Rod McKuen

I am amazed at how many friends I have made in such a short time in blogland.  I never imagined that from August 2, 2010 until now that I would have 400+ followers of my blog!  I have met some (only through our internet connections) who I now consider good friends - we visit each other's blogs daily and usually leave a comment along the way.  I have had so much fun reading all about all of you, seeing what you are making, and learning what is happening in your lives.  I have cried with you, laughed with you, and prayed with you.  I have tried to help make a difference in this crazy world of ours by participating in charities with you.  I have gone on your trips with you and sat in your sewing room listening to your stories.  You all have enriched my life more than you will ever know.  Thank you all for becoming my friend and putting up with my usually not so humble words.  I appreciate each and every one of you.  And, remember,  you are a stranger only once!

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

My Christmas PEZ gift

Ever since I can remember, I have liked PEZ candy.  Back when I was young we had very simple dispensers, not all of these cute little characters that are available now.  "PEZ" is derived from the German word for peppermint. It was formed using the first, middle and last letter of the word, PheffErminZ. Haas used peppermint oil to make his PEZ creation.   PEZ candy was invented in 1927 in Vienna, Austria, by Edward Haas III. Since its inception, the candy and dispenser have transitioned from an adult breath mint to a much-loved candy by children and adult collectors alike. More than three billion PEZ candies are consumed annually in the United States alone. PEZ and PEZ dispensers are available in over 60 countries around the world.
When Haas invented the PEZ candy, he did so as an alternative for smoking. Originally, PEZ were brick-shaped candies, packaged in pocket-size tins. In 1947, an employee of PEZ Candy named Oskar Uxa designed a dispenser that resembled a cigarette lighter. The new design also functioned in such a way that it could have one-hand operation, with an automatic stop to prevent the candy from falling out. In 1948, the current design of the dispenser was created. After extensive research in 1952, Haas decided to move the focus of the candy toward children and started placing character heads on the dispenser.
This was probably a bit more than you wanted to know about PEZ but I found it rather fascinating.

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FEBRUARY SNOWMAN

I wasn't able to get much sewing in yesterday as I had quite a bit of computer work to take care of.  Don't you just hate it when necessities get in the way of your crafting?

This is a six inch square I'm making for a table stand that I have.  I took the design from a pattern called Redwork Snowman Quilt by Wellington House Designs.  Obviously I'm not making it in just redwork.  In the future, I think I will add extra fabric to the sides to make it easier to hoop.  I can always trim away the extra.  I have added a featherweight Pellon to the back to see if it hides the thread ends.  I didn't do this on the Birdie Stitches BOM for January.  This way I can find out which way I like better - backed or not backed.

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MORE BEE BLOCKS

The mailman arrived with happy envelopes again today.  Three to be exact.

This beautiful block was made by Carolyn, The Veggie Hunter.   It has an amazing amount of tiny 1" blocks in it.  It is a very striking block!  Thank you, Carolyn. 

This wonderful block was made by Anna, The Renegade Quilter.  The picture doesn't do it justice as it is a very pretty block.  I love the design.  Thank you, Anna!

This awesome block was made by Melinda, Melinda Quilts Etc.  It is the first hand stitched block I have received.  I love the hexie flower!  Thank you, Melinda!

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I usually don't plug shops or stores unless it's while talking about different fabrics I have used in a project.  However, today is different.  I would like to announce that my friend, Leona, has opened her very own etsy store Leona's Quilting Adventure.   I'm sure that many of you are already following her blog so you know what a talented lady she is.  Now her shop doesn't have a lot in it yet but keep checking back as she will be adding more very soon!  Stop by her store to help her celebrate and tell her I sent you!!

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TODAY'S GOAL

I plan to do some more stitching on my little February snowman.  I also plan to cut out a few more hexies for future flowers.  But all of this has to wait until I do some more on the computer.

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400+ FOLLOWERS THANK YOU GIVEAWAY

I really am thankful that all of you are following my blog!!!  You are my friends and I would like to thank you.  And what better way than to have a giveaway.  Would you like some fabric?  How about..............

This beautiful collection of Vintage Florals by Beth Ann Bruske for David Textiles! 

There is a total of 6 1/2 yards of fabric in this collection.

1/2 yard cuts of each of these pieces.

1 yard of this (the better color picture of this is in the top picture - second from the left)

And 1 1/2 yards of this print.

How can you win this collection you ask?  First, you do not have to be a follower but since this is a Thank You to my followers it would certainly be nice if you became a follower too.  Oh, and don't forget to make sure there is some way to contact you.  If I can't contact you, you can't win.  If you have a 'no-reply blogger' then you better include your email in your comment or you will not get counted.  OK, so here's what you can do to enter.....................

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

1.  Leave me a comment telling me what your favorite childhood candy was. (one answer only)

And for a second opportunity to enter........

2.  Blog about this giveaway.  Make sure to come back and leave a separate comment with a link to your blog showing me where you mention my giveaway.

That's it!  Easy enough don't you think?  And, yes, this giveaway is open to everybody - local, regional, domestic, international, space creatures - anybody that can type a comment!  Please only leave comments to #1 and #2 above.  Do not enter several comments with several different types of candy - they will be deleted.

I will definitely be reading each answer and checking on blog links.  However, I probably will not be able to respond to each and every one of your comments as I want to have time to sew too - lol!

I will select a winner (with the help of random.org) on Monday, January 31, 2011 at 7:30 AM PST.

Good luck and thank you again!!!!!

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GIVEAWAYS

Adventures in Dressmaking is having a great giveaway but I won't be entering.  She is giving away a $50 gift certificate to Fat Quarter Shop.  I would love to have it but she requires you to become a follower.  This giveaway will end Tuesday, January 25, at midnight.

   
Women Who Do It All is having a CSN giveaway!  Wouldn't you like to win a $55 gift certificate to spend at the CSN store?  This giveaway will end on January 27th.

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FINAL THOUGHT

Our weekend is already planned out.  Family dinner Friday night.  Visiting a quilt show on Saturday.  Sunday is wash day and catching up with what we didn't do on Saturday.  I'm already tired think about it.  It will be fun but not particularly restful.  And that is how our next couple of weekends will be.  Who said things slow down after the holidays doesn't live at my house.  One weekend was all we were given to rest and relax.  I think we have another free weekend some time the middle of next month.  What are your plans for the weekend?

Weekends are a bit like rainbows; they look good from a distance but disappear when you get up close to them.
~John Shirley

It's Friday - Frolic and have Fun!!