New Year's Eve Myster

Well...I was looking for a mystery and Bonnie supplied one. Quiltville.com (aka Bonnie) will be hosting a mystery New Year's Eve...hehe! I will probably not work on mine on the 31st due to work...but I will do a little sewing on the 1st....football is a must that evening. USC!!!


Anyway, come join us....now to find some Traci friendly colors.....I don't have anything in double pink and cheddar in my sewing room, smile!!! I don't mind those colors....I just don't have any....I am a brights and batiks girl...but I am going to spread my wings in the New Year and work with something new and different....outside of my box.


Hugs!

Traci

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to Blogland!!!

I have not been a good blogger lately....the holidays caught up with me and then I just gave up.

I did make some little gifts this year for my sewing buds...but I haven't given them out yet...so no pictures, smile!

I promise to improve my blogging in the new year....I am going to scale back my buying of fabric this year since I have run out of storage in my sewing room. Actually in every room.
This year will be devoted to organizing and stashbusting....I really want to complete some of my UFOs that I have lovely put in storage...where I can't get to them...hehe!!

I am also planning on making handmade gifts for two people on my list...I know there are those of you who make all your gifts but you have to start somewhere...smile!! I even have the fabric for my two holiday projects for 2009....isn't that strange to type out...where does time go????

Blessing to you all and Happy New Year!!

T.

New Block of the Month and Chance to Win a Quilt!

Block of the Month Classes and chance to win a beautiful quilt. That is right....win a quilt. Just click on the picture or visit Stitching Cow.

Weekend Update

Times are scary. Today I filled up my little car for under $15! Wow...now that is cheap. I like the low gas prices but how long will it last? Food here has gotten pricey but it still doesn't compare to the prices that my parents are paying for food back home in California.

In the bulletin from my church there is a list of needed items for the food bank....there has been a increase in people seeking out food this year. They estimate a 50% increase. Please if you can...donate to your local food bank.

Speaking of my parents....the Hills are burning. They evacuated a short time due to the raging fires....scary!!!

Well the majority of this weekend was spent relaxing and planning. I wanted to sew but laundry needed to be done and I needed some downtime. I do plan on sewing this upcoming weekend....I have to start on my little gifts for my TNT (Thursday Night Therapy) sewing group members.

I took a long walk just before sun up on Saturday morning. We had a storm Friday night so there were leaves in a multitude of colors on the ground....gold, amber, red, green and brown....it was an absolute wonderful sight. So quiet...no one but me out there walking....and then daylight....it was a great start to a wonderful day. Can you tell I love this time of the year!!!


Hugs and Blessings!

T.

Fall

I was asked this year what I wanted for my birthday and Christmas...wow, really early for such a request. I have an Amazon Wishlish...so why the questions. Well, it seems that wasn't good enough.

So this month, I am celebrating my birthday and Christmas early with so early gifts. One I absolutely love!!! The Amazon Kindle....love it! I first read about the Kindle on Mary's Site and then on Amazon. My friend Gail said that it is one of Oprah's favorite things...I missed that show unfortunately. The Kindle is great! I love to use it at the gym....no problem with the page flipping over or loosing my place. I love it!! No problem with taking in on the plane, no problem with running out of things to read....just order something from Amazon...it will download almost automatically on your Kindle...no need to connect to the computer either.

I also got other things...my camera is beyond dead unfortunately. My Designer SE has a new friend.....not as pricey as she was but super reliable.

As we drove over Northern Alabama and Southern Tennessee....we notice how beautiful the fall colors were. Just beautiful!!!

So,So Behind

Our guild hosted Judy Niemeyer this week. She taught two great workshops...Sunflower Illusion and Indian Summer. I attended the Sunflower Illusion workshop....I learned so much!! Her techniques are amazing. Now paper piecing isn't my thing....I would love to do it and enjoy the process but up until now I have not be able to do it.

I purchased lots of patterns so I am invested...smile.

I really enjoyed her teaching technique but my confidence in knowing what I am doing is truly lacking....badly.

I plan to attend a class utilizing her techniques in January. Hopefully I will improve.

No pictures to share of her beautiful quilts, sorry....I was really stressing about understanding everything and getting my block made. I made the block but one small piece was short so I will redo.

I am so behind on everything, my blocks of the month....everything.

I spoke with a quilting friend about how she is able to get so much done. She tries to sew everyday....hmm, could I do that I wonder?She also sews a lot on the weekend. I work incredibly long hours and usually by the time I do get home and feed myself, the furry friends, answer mail, email and phone calls. It is time to stop, go to bed and start the day all over again.

I am going to try to sew at least on my days off.....I don't think I will be able to sew after work....I do believe I will be unsewing a lot.

This week I am scheduled to attend a girls getaway.....I am hoping to rest, relax, eat and sew...maybe I can caught up on my blocks of the month....smile!

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Athens Guild

Hi!

Go to the end of the blog and view some photos from the Athens Quilt Show. I am a little late posting..sorry.

Hugs,

Traci

So Much for Stashbusting

Okay...I am supposed to be busting my fabric stash right...well, that is and was the plan.

So why did I purchase....uggh!!! Nearly $500 worth of books and fabric???? I am a stress shopper and eater. I am trying to drop 10 pounds ....so eating was out of the question, so shopping it had to be.

My mother had a biopsy today...I wasn't worried originally but then I thought...I need to be there. I really need to be there. Instead of traveling the 3,000 miles back to the West Coast I went shopping for a quilt class later this month.....and apparently for a lot of other projects as well.

I decided to stop by Judy's Blog and see what I needed to gather for the Quilt an Hour project and was shocked that someone had the nerve to complain about Judy.

Called her selfish!!!??? What! She gives free patterns to everyone....we are currently doing a Star BOM...she provides two patterns FREE!! every month. She has designed a Quilt for an Hour project...once again FREEE!!! Perhaps whoever you are....you need to get out your dictionary and look up the meaning of SELFISH because it just may be you!

Disappointment

Hello All!

Twice this week I had a change of plans....the most disappointing change was the cancellation of a retreat....a week long retreat. Yes, I had taken off work...yes, I had projects planned...but it is okay.

Now I will have a modified retreat....at home.

Pictures to follow.

Hugs and Blessings.

Me

GiveAway!!! GiveAway!!

Hi Everyone!

Here is a link to a fabulous fabric giveaway from one of my favorite bloggers.
http://sugarshop.typepad.com/sugar_shop/2008/08/guess-what-ive.html

Please stop by and tell them Traci sent you...hehe!

Football is here!!! Yipee! Go Trojans!!!

The Ladies At Night...smile!

Well, Thursday...we all got together for drinks, dinner and fun. Here is a picture of some of us.

It was Shana's Birthday....Happy Birthday Shana!! Happy Birthday to you!

No Nashville For Me

No Nashville for me. I so wanted to attend the last AQS show in Nashville...plans had been made and I was on my way tonight returning home tomorrow evening. Then life took over.

My co-worker's son was diagnosed Monday with a brain tumor. He had surgery on yesterday and is now recovering. There is no word yet on whether or not the tumor was malignant or not but Caleb is talking and interacting with his family. There is some facial paralysis and weakness which hopefully is a result of the surgery and will not be permanent.

I am a shopaholic..I know it and all my friends know it. It is sort of like a hobby for me..smile.

I have decided to give my co-worker the money I would have spent on my quilt show trip.

I need nothing and have been blessed so much in my life.

Please pray for Caleb and his family.


Hugs and Blessings to All!

Traci

Star BOM #2

I received my new ruler today and decided to tackle Star BOM #2. Success!!! All is well.

I will redo Star BOM #1 at a later date....it is Olympics time!

Thanks to everyone who sent messages...I truly appreciate all of your encouraging words and suggestions.

I will be using the "coping" strips around the blocks to bring them up to the 12 1/2 inch size...actually this one measured out to be a little larger than 12 1/2 inches.

Have a great weekend all! Thanks so much Judy!

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Wow...Exciting Giveaway!!!

Okay...I found this amazing blog. You must go check this one out and while you are there enter in the drawing for several prizes....amazing!!!!

Ah...Houston, We Have A Problem....

More Like Traci you have a problem....with your ruler!!!

Here are my fabrics I will be using for Star BOM...all batiks, all from stash. I will be adding some pinks as well.

Here is my completed Block # 1...major problems. I thought I measured so carefully!!! Not!

Well, more like Traci....you have a serious measuring problem.





I can't be the only one that is having problems with the 16th measurements....yuck. Maybe if I had a ruler with the 16th marks! I know...it is me, just me. I have always been measuring challenged...smile, actually smiling through my tears. I so wanted this BOM to be a success for me. No, I haven't given up...but I am very disappointed.


Hugs and Blessings....Suggestions always welcomed!!!

Traci

Whew....Is Fall Here Yet!??

Hi All!

I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!! Summer is coming to an end...thank goodness.

This summer has been one for the records for me...work has exploded, I will be changing positions soon and life is ever changing all around me.

Not much to show in regards to quilting...just a huge and ever growing fabric collection. I was so trying to reduce my stash this year...but I am so far in the fabric hole there is no climbing out for me.

Since I wasn't able to sit at the sewing machine as much as I wanted to....I have been doing a lot, and I do mean....a lot of shopping. Everyplace I went if there was a quilt shop within 100 miles I was there. The Internet has always been a friend to me but we are even closer now...smile!!

Hopefully as summer comes to an end...I will be able to spent less time Internet shopping and more time at the sewing machine.

Last night I attended a big fund raising event for work The Miracle Bash. Lots of good food, drink and dancing. Standing 4 hours in 4 inch heels was a mistake....my feet were throbbing as I was walking to the car after the event. How nice that I had my feet rubbed that night....sad that I fell asleep right after...hehe!

Hugs and Blessings!!

Traci ( ohhh...soccer is on)

Where Has Time Gone??

My life is one big blurry mess. At least this year is! Work has been so busy...I have been working overtime. That word "overtime" is really night in my vocabulary. I don't like it and my body doesn't like it. My social life and sewing have taken really big hits due to working so much. The extra money is great but what happens when you are too tired to spend it?

I have so enjoyed visiting blogs and staying connected with sewing and quilting. I look at my sewing room (still in total disarray) and promise myself that one day I will return to my now second favorite room....my bedroom is now my favorite.

I do plan on participating in Judy's BOM. I love stars and have fabric that I want to use for it. I am now trying to decide what background I want to use, I will be using a collection of batik fat quarters(1895 Hoffman Batiks..I have a yard of all of them) for the stars and a golden orange batik for the star points. Should I bust some stash for the background fabric or should I splurge and purchase something new???? I have a navy blue batik that would work great and there is always my my favorite black batik...hmmm. No idea which direction I will go.

I have made a list of projects I want to start just from visiting my favorite blogs..hehe! One is the Run Around Bag from Lazy Girl Designs. I also want to start two patriot quilts. A simple red, white and blue Jewel Box or another simple pattern. Another patriotic quilt from this Cozy Quilt Pattern...and perhaps a third one, smile. I also need to get busy, purchase some Christmas fabric for two Christmas quilts....how did I get talked into that!!

I need to make a list of my UFOs...and start to work on them weekly or at least monthly. I am so jealous of people who can sew daily....wow!

My next dream is for a clean and organized house. My mom is coming to visit soon...can't wait.


Until next time!

Me!

Busy As a Bumblebee

Life here has been super busy. Work has exploded and the house...too has exploded in a not so pleasing way...if you get my drift.

I promise to update you on my Paducah outing etc. I know....I am so so late with pictures. I decided to put the Orange Crush mystery on the back burner....simply because I have no time.

I have been stitching...or trying too. I am not very good but I am trying daily to get better. Really how hard can it be right.. smile!

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

So Sorry

I have been across the country and back! May was (since there are only hours left) a really busy month for me. Graduations, surprise visits, family get togthers...work.. too much. I now have one month with nothing planned..that is that requires traveling more than 2 hours from home.

There is so much more I wanted to accomplish this month but never got around to it...cleaning, planting my tomato plants ( my Topsy Turvey planter was recalled by QVC), giving Izzy a summer hair cut and organizing my closets. It seems my entire wardrobe is in three suitcases or in the laundry room. I need a few more outfits to complete my summer wardrobe....but I am not in a hurry to find them, smile.

Blogging and sewing have both taken a back seat....I promised that June will bring more of both.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!!!

This has been a "flying"month for me. My sister-in -law's graduation in Minnesota and finally my surprise for my mother on yesterday...me, for Mother's Day! I flew in to surprise her....boy was she shocked! Hehe!

Needless to say...I however am exhausted! I would not recommend flying this much and working this much to anyone. I am so happy that I don't have to routinely travel with my current job. I always pack the wrong things and this trip was no different. I was expecting warm balmy temps...no, it is serious sweatshirt weather here! I did bring some jeans but no long sleeves. My best friend remembered that she did pick me up a sweatshirt on one of her shopping trips a few months ago , I now have one lightweight jacket and a sweatshirt.

Tomorrow, I am walking/running...Kim says we are walking...in the Entertainment Industry Foundation Revlon Run/Walk for Women. This aids the fight against all Women's Cancers. Pictures to follow.

Happy Mother's Day!!

Love and Kisses!

Traci

Paducah Aftermath

Went to Paducah this year armed with a list! Yes, a list.

Usually I am a person that doesn't have a shopping plan unless it is for food or things I need for my house. I just go and let whatever guide me.

Well, not this year....Paducah had a list and limits were set.

I got the threads I wanted and the fabric I wanted.

A friend is having a baby so...a quilt is planned. Found the perfect border fabric...yipee. Now to decide on the pattern...hmmm. Didn't find one that I liked.
I also found fabric I needed for a wallhanging in the works.

I went to Hancock's of Paducah and spent....$71....that is it! WEll...not the total for the trip but that is all I spent at Hancock's.

Another item on my list was to test drive long arm machines. So far I like the Gammill Premiere Plus or the Classic Plus and the Tin Lizzie. I was really surprised about the Tin Lizzie LS really smooth...there was a big difference in price so I will not rush into a decision too fast. I will test drive the machines again before making a decision. The other machines I tested had a lot of vibrations that were hard on my hands. I have no problems with my hands or wrist...so I was surprised when I felt the discomfort.

Off to the gym....Paducah food it bad, but oh so good!!!
Will post photos of my goods!

Hugs and Blessings...off to the gym!

Traci

Stash Reduction Effort

Well, I didn't purchase any fabric this week...smile. Paducah is this week...I will have a lot to report after that.

I started the Quiltville Orange Crush Mystery as planned..all from stash!

I attend two workshops using all stash fabric...nothing new was purchased. I wanted something new and different...there are so many new and exciting floral prints now but I didn't purchase anything at all.

This week was a trying one...work, work and more work. The unit is gratefully not super busy but the other stuff that I must do simply drained me. It didn't help that I had the crud...I don't usually get sick so when I do it becomes a big production. It doesn't help that the valley is blooming! I have allergies...bad allergies. So the crud coupled with my allergies is something like having a quart of ice cream up your nose and cottage cheese stuck in your throat...all at the same time. My throat felt like a grater attacked me then someone poured gasoline on it then set it on fire. Misery!!

I am allergic to every grass known to man....spring, not my favorite time of year.

Just a reminder that summer another unpleasant time of the year is on the way....yuck!!!

On a good note...I feel much better!

Hugs,
Traci

Barbara Olson Workshop Continues

Barbara Olson Workshop Photos

Barbara Olson Visits The Guild

With great pleasure we hosted Barbara Olson at the guild on Thursday. Her lecture and quilts were an inspiration. Her use of color was outstanding.

I was fortunate to take two workshops with Barbara. Jump Start you Creativity and Cosmic Spirals. The spirals are interesting....foundation piecing. She uses Sulky Totally Stable as her foundation...hard initially to use but I like it a lot better than freezer paper or paper. The picture above is Cosmic Spirals by Barbara Olsen. It will be a long long time before my wall hanging is photographed. I did finish up the black and white spiral for the top block...only!

The above wallhanging is Barbara's Wild Thing. This is a machine appliqued project. She used glue stick and the blanket stitch. She uses Invisible Thread (smoke) Monopoly and Bottom Line in the bobbin.

If any of you have a Viking....my $6,000 sewing machine doesn't like glue stick. I love the control you have with the glue stick...but I wonder if I could use spray starch or something else instead. Exposing my machine to that much glue kind of makes me nervous. Barbara assured me that cleaning the needle with an alcohol swab and also cleaning it after each bobbin change would be enough...hmmm.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

And Another Thing!!

Tivo....is acting up. Well, not Tivo but the HDTV Cable box is acting up....I have no time for the cable people to come out, none!!!

Luckily I have another Tivo box...sad! So Sad!!!!

Can you hear me screaming!!!

I am Back...well sort of!

Spring has come to the valley! Unfortunately!! I have had a cold, allergy episode and/or sinus event...all while working!!! It has been awful.

My nose has been dripping, my throat feels like someone has been poking it with hot irons and my head feels like a elephant is sitting on it. Can you tell I don't feel good!!

WEll, there was no other options...I had to work. So I just worked the days I had too....and today I died! I don't have time to be sick...I have a meeting in the morning and a luncheon to attend. I also have to get ready for the Barbara Olson workshops this weekend , work on my Orange Crush Mystery and enjoy my one day off before starting again.

No stashbusting to report this week. I will use stash in the Barbara Olson workshops though...didn't have time to shop for anything new, smile!

Will post pictures of Step 1 and 2 of the Orange Crush Mystery hopefully Monday.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Resting

Work this week has been beyond bad! I have been there every single day this week including today!

So.....the rest of my day was spent trying to renew myself. I went to the gym, I took a nap and finally we went out to dinner...I will hopefully climb into bed with a book really soon and fall blissfully asleep...oh joy!

Haven't started on the Orange Crush mystery yet or any of the other items on my to do list...hopefully that will happen tomorrow afternoon.

Sleep well everyone..."see" you soon.

Hugs,
T.

Fabric Reduction Effort

Hello,

This week was a great one...! I must confess that I did purchase fabric.... but pulled from my stash for an upcoming mystery project. I pulled 15 yards of fabric to be used for Bonnie's mystery and also for another quilt.....same colors, smile. I am making a quilt for my sister-in-law Abbi. The mystery quilt is mine!

I purchased a kit for a BOM...that came this week that was 4.5 yards that I must count for this week's tally....but it does have a purpose, smile. Not counting my fat quarter tower until it arrives..hehe. I still have time to get rid of some fabric...smile.

Paducah is approaching and I have to do something fast! Maybe I won't buy anything...right!!!

So...here are my totals.

Fabric In: 34.5 yds

Fabric Out: 76 yds

Net Fabric to Busted to Date: 41.5 yds used or given away!

Hugs,

Traci

Little Under the Weather Today

Had a great time last night. Maybe too much fun... because now I am in my jammies with a dull yucky feeling in my gut and stomach. No violent action..if you get my drift just a yucky feeling.

So no dinner out for me.... Had to force feed myself lunch. Will put a load of laundry in the wash and maybe take a nap.

I pray I don't have a stomach virus....so sad. Wanted to finish up the Carolina Crossroads blocks today..found the perfect border fabric.

Hugs,

Traci

Orange Crush Quiltville Mystery Fabric Selection

Okay...here are my fabrics I will be using for Bonnie's mystery starting April 1st....border too!Good or bad...let me know!

Hugs,

Traci

Flavin Glover

Flavin Glover was the guest speaker at our guild on Thursday. She is the "Queen of the Log Cabin" Quilt....and she really is. Absolutely amazing!!! The above is not a great picture of her....her eyes were closed and I didn't know it until I uploaded the picture...darn it!

I fell in love with her sheep quilt...so cute and I love sheep.

She is extremely organized and very talented. She had examples of all her pieced quilts, old and new.....for each quilt!!! She gets inspired from commercial ads, photographs etc....just an extreme talent.

If Flavin comes to visit your area I highly encourage you to attend her lecture. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend the classes....darn it.

Hugs,

T.

Sunday---What is on Your Design Wall????

Cajun Cooking Quilt...if it ever gets done.

Two blocks from my Carolina Crossroads...still under construction.

WEll, there was a huge list of things I wanted to get done today..like grocery shopping, laundry, put down new runner carpets...some general cleaning in the kitchen. I did clean two bathrooms and there is laundry in the washer right now. Everything else...didn't get done.

Oh well...I did however, unsew many, many blocks.

I above I have posted some pictures of my Carolina blocks and also what else is on my design wall.

Hugs,

Traci

Happy National Quilting Day

Happy National Quilting Day...or should I say Weekend.

I know several groups are getting together and sewing this weekend. Working on various projects and finishing up UFOs.

I sewed on yesterday...worked on my Carolina Crossroads blocks which are looking fantastic...love my color combination. It is really sad that I don't get much sewing time. I was talking to Betty on yesterday and she said that she gets to sew 8 hours a day when her husband is traveling which is almost every week!!! So envious of that!

I am lucky I get 8 hours a month...maybe 8 hours in three months, if truth be told.

Well..I must confess to a big huge mistake. I was sewing on my little Janome Platinum yesterday.....and forgot to set my stitch width to 3.5. Instead it was set at 3.0!!! Yuck, Yuck and double yuck. So all the blocks I did get together on yesterday...I will be unsewing today while watching basketball.

I will update later with the stash report.

Stashbusting Update:

Fabric In to Date: 30 yards

Fabric Out to Date: 61 yards

Net Year to Date: 31 yards busted!

Hugs and Blessings!!!

Traci

Fabric Reduction Effort

Okay...I know I have a problem , you know I have a problem..smile.

I was in the sewing room for maybe...2 hours on Friday and that is it! Enough to do my Pass the Box Block and my two BOMs...can't start the other BOM because the kits are back ordered...so can't count fabric that hasn't crossed my doorstep yet...hehe!

In preparation for the fabric kit arrival and my other purchases...I have given away......37 yards of fabric!!!

So...

Fabric In: 0 Yards

Fabric Out: 37 Yards


Traci

Blog Break

Taking a blog break...will be back probably by the weekend.

Need to get somethings done around the house...yuck!

Hugs and Keep Warm!

Traci

Stash Busting and Best Laid Plans

Okay...those of you who know me from my "work" life know that I have been really busy lately.

I haven't sewed any in a long, long time...actually I haven't been in the sewing room since the retreat..other than looking for my watch...which is still missing!!

I made a list of things I wanted to accomplish yesterday....didn't do anything on the list.

I was a "social butterfly" (that is what my mother calls me) instead of sewing and doing what I was supposed to do. Went out for brunch..went to the movies...went shopping....did cook dinner and then watched the Tennessee basketball game...great! Made homemade nachos for snacking during the game....I am so good!

Okay...stashbusting confession time. No fabric in this week and no fabric out. I did however order some fabric today....sigh....but it hasn't gotten here yet.

I am doing this BOM...so I purchased a kit. The plan is I must get rid of 6 1/2 yards of fabric this week to break even, smile...that is my plan and I am sticking to it!


Fabric In: 0 yards
Fabric Out: 0 yards

Hugs,
Traci

To Do List!! Help!

Okay...work and more work has had me unable to sew at all. So today I am panic sewing...well, maybe not panic but the deadline for projects are fast approaching and I haven't started on anything just yet.

List:

1. Pass the Box Block---not started, haven't thought about what I am going to do . Really need to do this first.

2. Blocks of the Month....hmmm, why oh why did I sign up for this block of the month...or should I say..these two blocks of the month. Simple sewing so this won't take long at all.

3. Carolina Crossroads--segments are still in there plastic bags. Need to work on this quilt. I need to finish it before the next mystery starts...hehe!

4. Shakespeare in the Park---found the "theme" fabric I want to use. Could only find 1.5 yards...wouldn't you know it! Did find something similar however so here I go again. Can you believe I am using browns and blues...hehe! I know...you are using brown???? In a quilt?? Yes!!! Me...I love the brown and turquoise combo...love it!

Now the above list goes along with the usual household things like laundry, cooking and grocery shopping. I have to cook this weekend. WE have been eating out for a month now because I have been so busy . Did you notice there was no mention of cleaning on the list...smile!!!

Hugs...and time for me to start!

Traci

Stash Reduction Effort

Well, nothing new to report...literally!! I didn't purchase one single piece of extra fabric....yipppeee!!!
I wanted to....but I didn't.

I plan to start a Shakespeare In the Park quilt soon so I will be purchasing for that one. My plan of purchasing and giving away is going to work...smile.

Fabric Purchased: 0 Yards
Fabric Used: 0 Yards

Hugs!

Traci

Saturday Yucky Ramble

Hello All!

Nothing new to report on the quilting front. I did open the door of the sewing room this week to look for my watch....didn't find it!

I thought today I would get some work done...unfortunately, I decided to be a little under the weather. Not sick with a cold/flu...thankfully. But everyone around me is sick....co-workers, friends, personal trainer, doctor...everyone...even the mailperson was sick this week!

Well today I slept soundly until 9 AM....nothing new on that front. But didn't move from the bed for 1 hour.....now that is not right for me at least....I was tired! I am never tired when I wake up. Of course, the morning call from my mother I told her I was tired and wasn't feeling 100%....worry!!! Everyone worries when I don't feel 100%.

I watched some TV, fed the furry beast, made out a grocery list and just plain lazed around....just didn't want to do anything.

At 1:30 PM decided to take a nap. WEll woke up at 5 PM....not a nap but did feel better. Did I mention that I am hormonal as well...not good.

WEll, after a fast food dinner....not good but I did have something good. 1/2 of a grilled chicken sandwich on a wheat bun and a spinach salad...yummy. A glass of sugar free lemon aid...my favorite.

Now I am supine on the couch...under a quilt watching the Slam Dunk contest on television....not really watching, just trying to be nice.....but I do have some quilting books and magazines that I find much more interesting.

Hugs and Blessings Everyone...tomorrow will be a better day!

T.

Birth Verse

Needing a little inspiration today. This helped so much.

Hugs and Blessings,

T



James 1:12 NIVBlessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

You are a child of God, His treasured possession. He created you in His own image. He chose the day for you to be born. He has a plan and a purpose for your life.

What is going on??

Well, I am watching last night's episode of my favorite show....LOST! Love it. Finally we may get some answers...and then again, perhaps not.

Last night had dinner with quilting friends. It was great to see Deanna's new kitchen and also to get together and laugh with everyone.

I would like to mention the "new to me" quilting magazine Quilter's Home. It is so funny!! The titles of some of the articles and the fabric highlighted had me in stitches the entire night...that and Pat's flying geese ruler, sorry inside joke.

We passed the box again last night...I am determined to keep on track with that and also all my other BOMs. I may not finish the quilts but the blocks will be completed,smile.

I busted some stash last night...hehe, I gave away 5 yards of Hoffman Latte Batik. Too bad I am about to buy some fabric for my BOMs and Shakespeare in the Park Quilt. Darn that Cozy Quilt Shop. They sent out an email showcasing the perfect Blue and Yellow fabric for my Fatcatpatterns BOM.....hmmm. Now to figure out what I can give away now.

Quilt Retreat Slideshow

I put a slideshow of the quilt retreat on my blog...guess where?? At the bottom of the page...I have to fix that but I am too sleepy right now to do it.

So , just scroll down and take a look.

Hugs,
Traci

Today

Today was another exciting day for me. I wanted so much to just remain in bed and do a little lounging this morning. But unfortunately, I had to go have a mammogram! Yes, the yearly tradition was a must this rainy, windy morning. After my mammogram I went to the gym to work off some of the retreat food I ate this weekend. The meals served are not calorie filled but it is the treats everyone brings that will get you. Homemade pound cake (my favorite!!), peanut brittle, fudge...cheese nips, M&Ms, dark chocolate covered cranberries!!! Danger!!

Now I am off to have lunch with my dear friend Kathy....Chinese!! Yummy!

Back to the gym tomorrow!

Hugs,

Traci

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Stash Reduction

Busted a lot of stash doing Bonnie's mystery.....counted that last week.


Unfortunately, I did purchased fabric this week...we went to three quilt shops.

Purchased background fabric for my charity quilts....needed some more white on white fabric. I also saw a wonderful frog print...had to get that one. I was doing really well until I walked into SewBee It in Georgia....oh my!!! Several gorgeous batiks called my name and I answered. So my plan is this....I will give away yardage from my stash to make up for my batik purchases...smile. Since I can't stop buying I will reduce another way...smile.

Fabric Purchased: 12 yards
Fabric Used : 0
Fabric Given Away : 10 yards

I Am Back from Retreat

Step 1: Carolina Crossroads
Step 2: Carolina Crossroads
Step 3: Carolina Crossroads
Step 4: Carolina Crossroads

Step 5: Carolina Crossroads

I am back from my quilt guild's annual retreat...had a great time!! It was the best retreat I have been on with the guild. Lots of completed projects, none from me but lots from other people..smile.

I decided to work on Bonnie's Carolina Crossroads Mystery. I saved all the clues and worked on this mystery for the 3 1/2 days I was at the retreat. I did take one day off for shopping. I applaud anyone who finished this mystery....whew!!! I am very proud of myself for taking on this project. The sewing wasn't hard but there was a lot of it. I put a fresh spool of Mettler's on my little Janome 760 and over half is gone!!! Now that is a lot of sewing.

The other two retreat projects didn't get touched....except when I moved them around in my retreat case..smile.

I hope to put the blocks together this week since I have a few more days off of work.

More retreat photos to come!

Check back...smile!!!

Hugs and Blessings!

T.

Stash Reduction Effort--This Week

This has been a good week. No new fabric purchased. I am busy getting ready for my guild's annual retreat so I have cut up lots of fabric to work on my planned projects.

January Total Fabric In: 18 yards

January Total Fabric Used: 18 yards cut

Truths About Me

Those who know me describe me as a happy carefree girl...that is me. At work I am someone else...smile, but every once and a while the true me gets to escape.

I love quilts. I love quick and easy quilts the most. I describe myself as an advance beginner but I have been told that is not true.

This year I am challenging myself to do something other than my usual quick strip quilts...boy I love my rotary cutter and stripper....so much fun! I plan to do two BOM other than my Patches BOM. I want to once again try hand applique also.

Goals for today.

1. Do some laudry!!! I am completely out of workout clothes....so this is a must.
2. Organize my stuff for the retreat.
3. Find the quilting magazine that I have misplaced somewhere in this house.
4. Work on an old UFO.

Hugs and Blessings Everyone....keep warm!

TLC

Fabric Give Away!

Quilters are the nicest people in the world. Visit Quilt Nut and enter to win some fabric. If you don't want it...you know I will take it, smile! Don't forget to mention that I sent you.

Hugs,
Traci

Great Find

I went to Walmart today...to get some new printer refill and also to get the ruler's required for Bonnie's Mystery. I have a Quick Angle ruler that I thought could work...but the measurements required were totally different than Bonnie's measurements...so off I went to get the Companion Angle and the Easy Angle Ruler, never can have too many rulers.

I had my list of items and I was sticking to it.

Found the printer refills....did you know that they are locked now! Wow!

Did not find the rulers. Actually there were very few things on the "quilting" aisle. Everything changes I guess.

So off I go for my lunch date to "Nothing but Noodles", only I didn't have any noodles..Love that place.

I knew there were two places I could get the ruler...but should I tempt myself and go. WEll I picked Hancock's. I walked in and picked up three fat quarters off the fat quarter wall...really cute but I knew I wouldn't buy them because I don't buy fat quarters...hehe! I walked to the ruler section and found both of the rulers needed. I also found a great book. But it was $24.99...do I need another book??? Don't I have one like this?? Well, why not??

Off I go to the register. I found a coupon for 10% off of purchase...quickly tore that out. Surprise! My book was get this....$1.90 plus an additional 10% off. The salesclerk looked shock...hey, I was shocked. My total purchase at Hancock's was less than $20...yippeee!!! And I purchased NO FABRIC!!!

Hugs,

Traci

Stash Reduction Effort --This Week

It wasn't a good week... extremely busy at work and at home. So my sewing time was extremely limited. I was unable to attend the "Road to California" quilt show this year....I thought it would be a bit much since I was just there in December for almost three weeks. So I can honestly say...I didn't buy anything there.

I did visit a LQS that is just starting up so I felt compelled to buy something. I firmly believe we should support our local shops especially in this area because we really only have one and a half (the new one has very limited fabric). I purchased some background fabric....beige and creams and some browns ( I know...not my favorite color) to be used for a backing. I also purchased a new pattern there.

I sewed with a group of sewing friends on Saturday....yippee. Will post pictures of that later today.

Yesterday I worked on my monthly charity quilt, my Valentines day tablerunner and finally..cut fabric for Bonnie's Mystery.

Today...I will go to the gym (have to drop those 10 pounds or more), drop off a quilt for quilting, go to Wallie World and back home to the sewing room. I am in the process also of organizing my stuff for an upcoming Quilt Retreat. I always pack too much, leave something at home vital for completing a project...not this time. Organization is my name!!!

Fabric In: 8 yards
Fabric Out: 6 yards
Fabric Purchased So Far this Year: 18 yards


Gratitudes:

1. Central Heating, Fireplaces, Electric Mattress Pad
2. Soup and Salad
3. Jacuzzi Tub

Can you tell it is cold here?

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Sunday Stash Report

Today the sun is shining and all is well. I plan to do a little cleaning and will visit the sewing room. Haven't been in there since before the holidays....is that right...hmm. I have to pull fabric for Bonnie's Mystery Quilt and also for my batik stash buster "Rhythm and Blues". Yes, I am behind with the mystery...so far behind that I haven't even started yet...but I will.

Last night's dinner was fantastic!! Today it is back to reality. Why is reality so hard??

Yesterday, I went to the LQS to pick up my block(s) for the $5 quilt (See quilts above). Very few participants this time around because it is such a basic quilt. Very juvenile...but that is okay with me. I will just take it to work, smile. My plan is to make 2 of each block and construct a larger quilt.

Okay, back to my purchases at the LQS...it wasn't too bad. I spent $22 and it was just on things for the Block quilt. Background fabric and stashing fabric only, very proud. The staff at the LQS even commented on me not buying anything extra....oops. I guess they don't want me to make a habit of that, smile. Will post photo as soon as I find my camera, hmmm....haven't seen it since my trip.

Hugs and Blessing!

T.

Happy Birthday!!

Today is my birthday....never thought I would associate this age with me, yikes!! I don't feel this age....do I look this age? Oh well....it has been a great day so far, smile. Woke up this morning to the sound of crashing tree limbs..hmm. Not good! But had to smile about it.

We were supposed to go to breakfast this morning celebrating that number again...hmmm. Didn't make it....the tree trimmer decided to come early instead on next weekend ...okay, thanks. Oh by the way....happy birthday...how on earth did he know? He pointed to the big flower and balloon bouquet on the porch...great! Thanks and you have a great day too. So no breakfast....hmm, how about lunch?? Okay we will go to lunch..really wanted a biscuit...really wanted a biscuit.

So here I sit opening gifts and looking at my big bouquet. Thanks goodness they don't make balloons with this number on it...otherwise I would have to move, seriously...only kidding.

Going to Ruth Chris tonight...to yes, celebrate that number again.

Things I am not doing today...not buying any fabric or books....hopefully!

Have a great day everyone...hugs and blessings to all.

T.

Stash Reduction--Well Maybe Not

True confession time...I have had a bad two months.

In December I went to my favorite quilt shop in California, Material Possession. They sent me coupons.....never had coupons from a quilt shop before. So...I used them. Now, I didn't go overboard, I purchased some neutrals for my TNT box swap, which I needed, some blue fabric I needed for another swap, a few patterns and a couple of books. Not too bad.

Yesterday I went to my LQS...the annual New Year's sale was in full swing with 25 % off all fabrics and an additional 30% off one item of your choice not on sale. I purchased holiday fabric which was 40% off and some black and white fabrics, some red fabrics..my fabric color combination and once again patterns and a couple of books...one was 40% off and the other one was 30% off. I went in search of some 30s fabric..( I have none) which I need for the TNT box swap...(two of my friendly box swappers are using 30s in their blocks) and also a light colored batik to use as a background fabric.

I don't think I did too bad since all the fabric I purchased is for a specific purpose except the holiday fabric (which I don't have a large stash of).

This upcoming weekend I plan to cut out a "Disappearing Nine Patch", pull batik fabrics to be cut (finally) and work on Louise's block for the box swap. I also want to start organizing my stuff for the two sewing retreats this month...one in town and one out.

Hugs and Blessings Everyone!

Happy New Year

Today I receive an email that really inspired me. It contained a list of New Year Resolutions. I really didn't make any resolutions this year other than continuing to organize my sewing room and house.

My holidays with my parents in California was wonderful. My trip back home...not so great! That is all I will say about that.

Here is the list of resolutions...maybe you will find something that you would like to do.

Happy New Year Everyone!


1.) Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while youwalk, smile. It is the ultimate antidepressant.
2.) Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.Buy a lock if you have to.
3.) Buy a Tivo (DVR), tape your late night shows andget more sleep.
4.) When you wake up in the morning complete thefollowing statement, "My purpose is to___________today."
5.) Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, andEmpathy.
6.) Watch more movies, play more games and read more books than you did last year.
7.) Always pray and make time to exercise.
8.) Spend more time with people over the age of 70 andunder the age of Six.
9.) Dream more while you are awake.
10.) Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants andeat less foods that are manufactured in plants.
11.) Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eatblueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli , almonds & walnuts.
12.) Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13.) Clear your clutter from your house, your car,your desk and let new and flowing energy into yourlife.
14.) Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughtsor things you cannot control. Instead, invest yourenergy in the positive present moment.
15.) Realize that life is a school and you are here tolearn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum thatappear and fade away like algebra class ......but thelessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16.) Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a princeand dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
17.) Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energyvampires away.
18.) Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19.) Life is too short to waste time disliking anyone.
20.) Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21.) You don't have to win every argument. Agree todisagree.
22.) Make peace with your past so it won't screw upthe present.
23.) Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
24.) Ladies - Go on and burn those "special" scentedcandles, use the 600 thread count sheets, the goodchina and wear our fancy lingerie now. Stop waiting for a special occasion. Everyday is special.
25.) No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26.) Frame every so-called disaster with these words:"In five years, will this matter?"
27.) Forgive everyone for everything.
28.) What other people think of you is none of yourbusiness.
29.) Time heals almost everything. Give time, time!
30.) However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31.) Your job won't take care of you when you aresick. Your friends will. Stay in touch with them.
32.) Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautifulor joyful.
33.) Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. God provides remember?!
34.) The best is yet to come. (in Heaven)
35.) No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and showup.
36.) Do the right thing!
37.) Call your family often.
38.) Each night before you go to bed complete thefollowing statements: "I am thankful for __________." Today I accomplished _________.
39.) Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
40.) Enjoy the ride.