Baby Quilter

Happy 2009

2009-01-02T09:31:00.003-06:00

Happy 2009!!!

Well, what have you decided to do differently this year?

I try not to make resolutions because I always fail usually by the second day. I went to the gym this morning and didn't even go it....there were so many people there I thought....oh no!! It is usually like that for the first two weeks then it returns to normal by the end of the month..smile!

I will take my walk in the neighborhood during my least favorite show....Today's show 9 -10AM...can't stand Kathy Lee!!! That is if my stomach returns to normal....I think I have a little virus....I don't feel sick just keeping the bathroom really busy, if you get my drift.

Okay...back to starting off the year right!!

I have a problem....shopping. I know this , everyone who knows me knows this and I have had it for a long, long time. Probably since I was in my early 20's.

Nothing really spurs my shopping habit...it is just a way of life. Well, I need to stop and I will. Well...not stop, let's not get crazy just slow down some.

Another issue...is I am running out of storage room. Just that thought of packing and moving...really scares me.Every closet in my house is full of stuff. I need to make time to purge and clean, purge and clean...that is my goal for 2009.

1. Purge and Clean.
No room will be left untouched, closets will be cleaned out and lots of things will be donated to local charities.

A few bloggers are trying to complete at least on craft project a month...I thought about that and decided not to join...simply because I did that one year and that was a complete failure. I do travel a lot. My job hours are long and to have to complete another job is just problematic!

2. Learn how to hand applique.
I love hand work....and my stitching is so bad with applique. So practice, practice!

3. Decrease shopping and collecting habit.
Several businesses may go under if I stop completely...hehe!!

What are you changing in 2009?

Happy New Year and many blessings!

Traci

New Year's Eve Myster

2008-12-27T15:10:00.003-06:00

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

2008-12-25T19:06:00.002-06:00

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!

2008-11-16T17:53:00.002-06:00

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

2008-11-16T17:32:00.002-06:00

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

2008-11-07T18:43:00.002-06:00

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

2008-10-18T19:52:00.003-05:00

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

2008-10-07T14:03:00.002-05:00

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

2008-10-03T22:28:00.004-05:00

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

2008-09-08T12:40:00.002-05:00

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!!

2008-08-30T12:35:00.002-05:00

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!

2008-08-24T11:28:00.003-05:00

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

2008-08-20T14:57:00.003-05:00

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

2008-08-15T23:20:00.003-05:00

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!!!

2008-08-11T12:53:00.002-05:00

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....

2008-08-10T17:17:00.005-05:00

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!??

2008-08-09T11:00:00.002-05:00

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??

2008-07-06T13:28:00.002-05:00

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

2008-06-21T17:40:00.002-05:00

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

2008-05-31T22:12:00.002-05:00

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

2008-05-09T10:11:00.002-05:00

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

2008-04-27T11:58:00.003-05:00

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

2008-04-20T16:14:00.003-05:00

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

2008-04-20T16:10:00.000-05:00

Barbara Olson Workshop Photos

Barbara Olson Visits The Guild

2008-04-20T15:02:00.005-05:00

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!!

2008-04-16T19:01:00.002-05:00

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!

2008-04-16T18:29:00.003-05:00

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

2008-04-05T21:08:00.002-05:00

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

2008-03-30T11:55:00.005-05:00

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

2008-03-29T15:21:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-22T12:20:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-22T11:52:00.005-05:00

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,

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

2008-03-16T19:51:00.005-05:00

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

2008-03-16T10:29:00.005-05:00

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

2008-03-10T21:13:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

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

2008-02-24T12:18:00.003-06:00

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!

2008-02-23T11:03:00.003-06:00

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

2008-02-17T11:10:00.003-06:00

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

2008-02-16T18:46:00.002-06:00

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

2008-02-11T15:54:00.000-06:00

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??

2008-02-08T09:25:00.000-06:00

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

2008-02-05T21:25:00.000-06:00

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

2008-02-04T11:19:00.001-06:00

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

2008-02-03T21:55:00.000-06:00

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

2008-02-03T21:28:00.000-06:00

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!

Stash Reduction Effort--This Week

2008-01-27T12:31:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-26T14:14:00.000-06:00

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!

2008-01-22T16:36:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-21T21:29:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-21T09:45:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-13T12:11:00.000-06:00

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!

Happy Birthday!!

2008-01-12T10:21:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-06T19:35:00.000-06:00

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

2008-01-02T22:20:00.000-06:00

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.

Up, Up and Away.....I am off!

2007-12-11T18:20:00.000-06:00

Well everyone I am gone. Have a happy and safe Christmas. Remember the reason for this glorious holiday season.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Christmas Pictures

2007-12-11T18:16:00.001-06:00

Well, here a few more holiday photos.

Thursday Night Photos

2007-12-07T21:26:00.001-06:00

This is my Dirty Santa gift.....it is a candle warmer for small candles, votives. I have large Yankee Candle Jars.....I will have to search for the other one (that I lost!!). Isn't it pretty.

Here are some of the individual gifties....ornaments, luggage tags...great!Here we have another group of gifties....a personalized fob, ornament and sewing organizer.
This group of gifties include a wreath ornament made of Hemlocks....no idea what they are...hmmm, need to read up on local plants. A great ornament made with buttons....and the cutest little hand embroidered pin cushion...so cute!!!

This year there were 4 very popular items...a black and white bag, a black,white and red sewing set (both of which were handmade), a candle warmer (Jim Shore...I didn't get it) and a gift certificate to a local quilt shop.

Christmas Party number 3! Whew....didn't think I would make it through the week but I did. Three Christmas parties , making gifties, food preparation, cleaning house ( yes, cleaning house.)....working,working out..tooo much for a normal person.

Blessings to All!!!

Promised Photos

2007-12-07T21:21:00.000-06:00

This is from my Stitch Group party on Tuesday night. We had a ornament and fat quarter swap. Not really "Dirty Santa" you just picked a wrapped package and that was it. I really like my fat quarter and I am a snowman person for sure....so smiling really big!

The rule for the fat quarter is....I have to make something with it and bring it to the next Christmas party....hmm.

Amazing!

2007-12-06T22:56:00.000-06:00

Well, my third Christmas party this week was tonight, had a great time with "Dirty Santa". The individual gifts were fantastic..will post pictures tomorrow. The food was amazing...ate too much again. But I will have these thighs in the gym tomorrow morning...yes, I will.

The most exciting segment was the "Quilter's Version of Twelve Days of Christmas"....so amazingly funny!

I arrived home to find this gadget in my email box. What???! Wow....it must be fantastic. I am so tempted to purchase one...why, just to see what the difference is and why does it cost more than double, no triple the price of the other rotary cutters. Maybe Santa will get me one...hehe!

Well...Grey's Anatomy is waiting for me on Tivo along with a nice cold bottle of Sugar Free Hawaiian Punch.

Hugs and Blessings!

T.

Christmas Party Number #1

2007-12-04T22:13:00.000-06:00

Tonight was the start of my Christmas parties. Tonight's party was with my Stitchers Etc group....nice group, I really like the people and had a wonderful time. I wish I could attend more meetings....perhaps with the New Year, changes will happen.

We had great food (ate too much) and a wonderful fat quarter and ornament exchange. No Dirty Santa with this group. The rules for the fat quarter is that in 2008 you must bring back a completed project which includes the fat quarter. I picked a red on red snow flake print...love red, and love, love snowflakes. The fat quarter served as the wrapping for the cutest snowman ornament...so cute. Will post photo tomorrow.

Need to finish up gift tags for Christmas party #2.

Blessings to All!

T.

Stash Reduction Effort

2007-12-02T19:05:00.000-06:00

Stash reduction efforts for the week were good. I finished "Wild and Crazy" Stars which was completely from my stash. 32 fat quarters, 3 yards of background fabric, and 6 yards of fabric for backing....ALL FROM STASH!!!

Tablerunner...not completely finished was also from stash. This will be a gift..so no picture for now.

Cut up 36 fat quarters for next month's Stash busting quilt.

Purchased the book above. All patterns utilize 6 half yards...great quilts. I have several half yards sets that would work great.

Most importantly....no fabric...I purchased no fabric!

Hello

2007-11-29T19:41:00.000-06:00

Nothing to report really. Signed up for the Charm swap on Quilted Table. I was a little doubtful about this swap since it is so close but if the plans are finalized by this weekend I will be able to get the charms in the mail by Monday at the latest.

I am getting a little excited! In less than two weeks I will be in California...yippeee! I know, I go all the time but I haven't been there in almost 6 months, that's half a year people.

Have I done my Christmas shopping....ahhh, no! Am I concerned about it....ahhh, no!

Most people here will get their items after Christmas...let us call them New Year presents.

On the Stashbusting front...I am still working on my tablerunner. I really want to use a certain red fabric so I am asking a friend if it is in her stash. If she has it...I will swap some of my fabric with her. I am still determined not to buy any additional fabric until my stash is under control.

I will complete Block 3 of the Quilt-A-Long and my BOMs from Patches all tomorrow.

I will be heading South for the weekend ....so no sewing for me.

Will post some quilty pictures tomorrow.

Stay warm everyone....it is cold outside.

Hugs,
T.

Quilt-A-Long and Stash busting!

2007-11-25T11:24:00.000-06:00

Quilt-A-long block #2 was extremely hard for me..I sewed and re-sewed that block at least 5 times! For some reason I wanted the center blocks to be reversed, smile! Well, now hopefully I have them correctly placed.

See sidebar for block picture.

With all the holiday traveling...I wasn't able to sew much.

Stashbusting Effort:

1. I didn't make any "new" fabric purchases this week. (I did have a delivery of fabric I purchased from Connecting Threads, before making this Stash reduction Pledge) I resisted temptation... a black and white sale at Equilter.com.

2. I started a Christmas tablerunner, completely from Stash....I will hopefully finish up the blocks today before moving on to my gifties for my TNT sewing friends.

3. Found a great stash reduction pattern that will be perfect for my batiks...which I have tons of, Rhythm and Blues. I also saw a quilt on Crazymoms blog that I will make that too will bust some stash.

I know I haven't done much...but I haven't purchased anything this week. One day at a time for sure.

Hugs and Blessings.

Stash Reduction Effort Vow

2007-11-22T08:58:00.000-06:00

In an effort to bring my stash and getting my sewing room under control....I have joined http://judylaquidara.blogspot.com/2007/11/quilters-who-want-to-reduce-stash.html"Quilter's who want to reduce their stash".

I have too much stuff...I know it and everyone who knows me knows it.

I need to cut back on my spending period! Due to life changes that are fast approaching and also because no one needs this much stuff!!!

Really sad when quilting friends and quilt shops call me when they are in search of a certain fabric! That should have been my first clue....the inability to open my sewing room door or lastly, not being able to "sew" in the sewing room due to lack on space...all important clues.
When your "sewing room"...consists of three rooms...also not good.

So this is my plan. I have pledged to making a "comfy" quilt every month using only my stash. This is a charity quilt either for a baby or for someone else in need. I recently cut up some of my stash into kits...5 kits to make quilts for friends and family.

Oops...time to eat breakfast....I love Thanksgiving!

Wish me luck!

Traci

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T19:07:00.000-06:00

May your Thanksgiving be filled with love and happiness...and a lot of FOOD.

Hugs and Blessings!

T.L.C.

Connecting Threads Order

2007-11-17T08:59:00.000-06:00

I took the plunge and ordered from Connecting Threads. This is my first time ordering fabric from them. I am an Equilter.com girl. But after many praises from other bloggers..I took the plunge and ordered some of their strip sets.

Placed the order and received email confirmation that they had received it and it was now on its way....will take 5 - 14 days to get here (interesting time line). I reviewed the order and WHAT! they substituted 3 yards of fabric with 12 fat quarters...obviously someone who doesn't sew was working in the order room.
I quickly email them...what are you doing??? I wanted that fabric for a border and fat quarters just won't do it! Just the thought of piecing all those fat quarter for a border makes me cringe. Still haven't received a response yet. Needless to say...not too happy about that substitution.

Will wait to pass judgement on the rest of the order.

Have a great day!

Me

Guild Night

2007-11-17T08:32:00.000-06:00

Above is a picture of the class sample by Sue Nickels. Isn't it gorgeous! I did buy the pattern for this one. Love, love the colors.

We were very happy to brave the cold to see Sue Nickels on Thursday night. She was our guest speaker this month. The presentation was about her "Beatles" Quilt which is fantastic!

http://www.sue.nickels.com/beatles_quilt.html

I wish I had a sister who shared my love of quilting like Sue does. Both she and her sister, Pat Holly, are very talented.

She also spoke about the Space Quilt which is very appropriate for this area...smile.

http://www.sue.nickels.com/space_quilt.html

I wore my newly made name badge (aka the "pot holder"). I was very surprised that no one pointed and laughed at me...but I looked around the room and low and behold...there were a lot of "pot holders" being worn. Maybe on vacation I will try again with a smaller version.

Purchases for the night were few...NO FABRIC! A book and a pattern...that is it, nothing more. I really wanted the thread set but didn't do it.

Hugs and Blessings!

What I did Tonight!

2007-11-14T21:37:00.000-06:00

WEll, tonight I worked on something I have not done in 5 years! Made myself a name badge for Quilt Guild...hehe! I stitched up my name as a practice piece..turned out okay but still need to practice some. I decided to use that little practice piece for a name badge...waste not want not, right! WEll, it turned out a little big! Hmmm.....I guess I should have thought about the size a little more than I did. It measures 6 1/2 inches...looks like a pot holder...smile.

I also worked on the Quilt-A-Long Block from http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/. Block number one is in the sidebar. Made completely from scraps....don't plan on purchasing anything for this project...just yet.

I also trimmed up the rest of the "Wild and Crazy" Stars...may stay up tonight and piece them.

Hugs and Blessings All!

Quilters

2007-11-13T21:28:00.000-06:00

Quilter's Horoscope

Capricorn - December 22 and January 20

When shopping for fabric it is always wise to take a Capricorn, as they are very good at calculating the required amount needed for patterns. ( This is so funny. I will help a person figure out how much fabric is needed for a pattern but I always buy more than needed...a lot more).

Being prudent and practical they will not over estimate the quantity needed and therefore are cost effective to have along, especially if you are on a budget. (Totally untrue...at least for me)They are also extremely organized and disciplined(Totally untrue...until recently my sewing room was awful! I do enjoy the organization now but as far as being disciplined...hehe)

They take as much care in the storage of their stash as they do in the quality of their work. They see themselves as sensible and perform a regular clear out of supplies and materials. They are not the type to horde anything and do not own more than one type of any tool.(Totally untrue for me...I horde, I own more than two of all tools, I buy every new and exciting tool..I need to do a regular clean out...but I don't).

Of course their restraint is what causes them to take an inordinate amount of time in the planning stage of a project, which they feel is of vital importance to the outcome of the finished product (Now I am beginning to wonder...am I a Capricorn...perhaps I was adopted, this would explain so much. But unfortunately, this doesn't hold up because I look just like my mother. I am a great planner of projects but the followthrough leaves a lot to be desired. And, I have no retraint...at all.)

Tonight I had dinner with a dear friend.Carolyn. I had a great time and can talk to her about anything. Due to my work schedule I am unable to attend my Tuesday night stitch group...but tonight I was free...and had such a good time.

What a great group of woman! I learned so much and enjoyed myself so.

Still trying to practice my stitchery....my new name badge looks okay but my stitching needs help, smile. Will post a picture tomorrow.

Today I also did my 15 minutes of "sewing"....I trimmed some of the "Wild and Crazy Stars" Blocks...will hopefully finish that up tomorrow.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Hancocks Fabric

2007-11-11T16:38:00.000-06:00

Went to Hancocks Fabric today for rotary blades...50% off. I think I have enough to last for the next few months.

The local Hancocks has changed! I saw signs for the Grand Opening. I thought...what! That Hancocks has been open for years...what is going on. Well, was a really surprised! It has completely been revamped! And there is a Bernina dealer in the center...where did that come from!

I was completely lost and wondered around the entire store....it looked wonderful!

After Hancocks...I decided I really needed to go to the gym so off I went for 1 hour of cardio...really needed it badly!
Now I am home...lunch on board and now I am headed to the sewing room.

I was reading Stashbusters this morning....Sandra really brought it home....we have to decrease. I know I have a problem....I know I have to use my stash and stop buying...but it is so much fun.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Stash Buster Sew In Weekend

2007-11-10T17:26:00.000-06:00

This weekend is the Stashbuster Yahoo group sew in weekend.

It is also a sew in day for a local quilt group that I belong to. So...off I went to drop off my block swap and then to quilt with friends. I will do a little sewing tomorrow also after laundry and an attempt to clean some.

I worked on the October Mystery blocks and also on the September Mystery. I have some of the October blocks pictured below and will post a picture of the September Mystery tomorrow.

Hope everyone is sewing! Now it is football time.

Hugs,
Traci

Exhausted

2007-11-08T18:12:00.000-06:00

I am completely exhausted! So it is early to bed for me for sure.

I wanted to do my 15 minutes of sewing today but that will have to be in my mind only. I did order some items online....does that count for 15 minutes of sewing time?? Probably not since I am supposed to be stash busting instead of stash establishing...smile!

I was heading south this weekend but I am staying close to home. I will go to a Sew In with a group of sewing buddies on Saturday....come back and watch football, maybe even cook a little soup or chili.

Hopefully after a full night of sleep I will be back to my normal self. Need to hit the gym really hard this weekend...Halloween was hard!! Didn't buy any candy but somehow I have consumed a huge amount of it.

Good Night All!

Traci

Sisters Shoebox Swap

2007-11-08T14:17:00.000-06:00

This is the first internet swap I have participated in. I am so happy that Monica let me play.

Here is what is in the package:

2 skeins of handpainted merino wool yarn

1 package of milk chocolate covered oreo cookies

1 package of dark chocolate hot chocolate

1 package of fall/Thanksgiving themed M & Ms

5 tea bags

Pumpkin Spice scented candle

American Cook Book

Faith silver bookmarker

Santa Ornament

Snowman Magnetic Photo frame

"J" embroidered beverage coozie

Above is a picture of what I sent my swap partner Judy. Hope she like chocolate.

Hugs and Blessings!

Traci

Update

2007-11-04T18:19:00.000-06:00

Hello...I get this question all the time. So, how is the sewing room cleanup going.

Well for so long I could only say...."okay", then hang my head down. Or I could just fib and say...great!

Now honestly I can say....really good. I only have three areas of disarray compared to an entire room of total ciaos.

I am a container girl...I love containers...big ones, little one...you name it I have it. Now I have a huge set of drawers and cabinets organized by fabric colors. I have a huge cutting table with storage below....my containers have multiplied....what is a girl to do?

I spent three hours organizing and cleaning again with great results...more empty containers.

Here are the plans for next weekend.

1. Cut scraps into 2.5 inch strips.
2. Start Christmas exchange gifts.
3. Continue with the sewing room cleanup.
4. Go to Sew in on Saturday.
5. Sleep...smile.

Tomorrow the work week starts again....so I will have very limit time to blog. Need to send off my Shoebox Gift Exchange in the morning before I hit the gym.

Have a happy and blessed week.

T.

Daylight Saving Time

2007-11-04T09:18:00.000-06:00

WEll, I completely forgot about setting the clocks forward...no back. Spring forward ..Fall back. I am so lucky I had no where to go first thing this morning because I didn't move until 8:30 AM.

I love this time of year....the cool nights are wonderful. Yes, I am a little cooler this year but after the summer from....you know where, I am ready for some temps in the 40s and 50s.

We will relax this morning at least until my brain wakes up....not there yet.

Later today I will venture into the sewing room for an attempt at organizing yet again. I have to admit that since I have started the sewing room clean up I have been more productive. It helps being able to see what you actually have.

Happy Day....and Blessings to All!

T.

Work So Far

2007-11-03T19:33:00.001-05:00

So Far Today this is what I have worked on.

UFO Mystery for October and "Those Wild and Crazy Stars". Have all the blocks made for the October Mystery but just wasn't feeling them today...so I will move on to the Stars. Fun to make those stars were....now just have to put together the other 20 blocks...hehe!

Had to stop for my Scooby Snack.....and to cut a mat off of Izzy's ear.

Hugs and Night All!

T.

Saturday

2007-11-03T15:02:00.000-05:00

Gratitudes for the Day:

1. Pain Medication
2. Heating Pads
3. Jelly Bellies

Can you tell it is that time of the month?

Okay, I am done feeling sorry for myself. I have abuse my loved ones enough for the day...back to work.

Blessings to All!

Traci

Time to Work

2007-11-01T12:33:00.000-05:00

Well, today I plan on sewing on some projects for a few hours. I really want to work on the Lucky Stars quilt...I think I will give that one away. It will be hard because I love all the colors.

I will also work a little on the blocks from last month's UFO group. We had a mystery night. Really funny that we are a group of quilter that call ourselves the "UFO group"...hehe!

Have a wonderful day everyone!

Hugs and Blessings.

T.

Dogs

2007-10-31T22:01:00.000-05:00

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.-Roger Caras

Fall Has Arrived

2007-10-27T16:05:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning to a wonderful chill in the air. Oh how I love fall...I sleep so much better. Life is great!

Had a wonderful time with my friends last night. Planned to post pictures of the event but left my camera and my purse on the landing of the stairs...can you believe that! No purse!

Well, it was great!

Will post pictures of new quilt as it progresses.

The picture is not from this area. Because of the drought our fall colors are not great! So here is a little picture from somewhere else....beautiful!

Hugs and Blessings to All!

Traci

Pink Dyson

2007-10-27T14:57:00.000-05:00

Hi!

I am trying to win a Pink Dyson. Click on the Dyson in the side bar to the right for your chance to win too!

Hugs,
Traci

Rainy Days

2007-10-23T15:22:00.000-05:00

Nothing quilty to report today.

I am working for the next three days so I will not be in the sewing room for a while. Work is going okay for me. I feel good but the sleep issue still hasn't resolved yet. Only slept 5-6 hours today...not enough but I pray tomorrow will be a better sleeping day for me.

Gratitude:

1. Good Health
2. Rain
3. Sleep
4. Family

Hugs and Blessings to All!

T.

Gratitude

2007-10-22T13:25:00.001-05:00

Gratitude helps you to grow and expand. Gratitude brings joy and laughter into your livesand into the lives of all those around you.~~~Eileen Caddy

Gratitude I was reading a blog this morning about gratitude. The blogger posts everyday about what she is grateful for.So Here Goes.

Gratitudes

1. Having a Job--although I have complained about work, I am grateful to be able to do a job that I love. There are many people who aren't blessed to do something they love.

2. Shelter--with the recent tornadoes in the Midwest and fires in the West we all should be grateful for having a warm,dry place to sleep and live. Many aren't blessed to have this.

3. Peanut butter---I love peanut butter. There is a store in the Mall of America that sells all types of peanut butter...I could have stayed there for hours.

4. Family

Christmas Ideas

2007-10-21T14:53:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for something unique for Christmas...you must visit this site.

http://wildcraftfarm.typepad.com/wildcraft_farm/2007/10/christmas-surpr.html

What a great idea!!!

Hugs,

T.

HQH Quilt Show

2007-10-21T13:45:00.000-05:00

The Quilt Guild's Biannual quilt show is this weekend. I was lucky enough to attend yesterday and took a few photos. Unfortunately, my camera's batteries died and I didn't get the entire show but I was lucky to get my favorites.

I was also very bad about my Fabric Diet....pictures of purchases are pictured above. The bottom picture is of me and some good "sewing" friends...we had a blast.

I have uploaded a few photos to Webshots., will upload more later.

Enjoy!

Traci

Blogging Update--Long , Very Long

2007-10-21T13:17:00.000-05:00

Well, a lot has happen in since July!!!

I had been feeling tired for a while but I thought it was due to working nights and working such long hours. No one told me that I was also a little "irritable"...nice way to say I was a witch. Not putting things together, I thought well, maybe I am going through the change of life.

Well, let's go back a little to August. Mike and Abbi's wedding was wonderful! I had such a wonderful time visiting with them. I went two days before anyone else and stayed two days after everyone left....great! I got to spend some time with both of them and also my cat "nephew" Cyrus!

The wedding was great...we did have a few mishaps but who cares. It is over and all is well.

The weather in this area this past summer was horrible. The heat the humidity...why or why do I live here...I think we all asked ourselves that this summer.

I went in for my yearly physical...with my weight loss and healthier lifestyle I was so confident that all would be well. I would get a pat on the back and a "see you next year". I was almost out the door when the lab review happened...first page, no problem, second page...this is a little high, but we will just watch it. Third page....the earth dropped ...Oh my, you have to have surgery!! What!!! Yes, we will referr you to...Dr. Blah (named changed) her is his number and he will see you on Monday. Well, in a daze I go to the car, I drive home, I go inside....what do I do now???

Well, I say Dr. Blah the second week of September...very "surgical" we have to do a test...blah , blah, blah...okay. Now I have just come back from vacation!!!! Now I have to have surgery....is this a horrible joke!

I go to the appointment secretary...she opens the book and says how is a week from Thursday???What!!!!??? A week from Thursday??? WEll, okay, what time?? AHHHH....7 AM. Good. See you then.

I have now spent two weeks in a daze....what am I going to do. I will have surgery, a scar...a scar, a scar...not doing well at all. Have told no one!!! Well, I have go to tell someone now. I call me cousin, then Andrew (who is freaking out...can't talk to him now), my friend Carolyn...oh yes, I will have to tell my boss. Made the decision not to tell my parents until after the surgery...too much money was spent on the wedding and things just a month ago. I have support here...I will be okay, won't I???

I come to grips with the whole surgery thing....scar versus kidney failure, osteoporosis, death??? I will take the scar.

Surgery was quick...15 or 20 minutes. Woke up with the worse sore throat in the world...why was Sheila on vacation??? Oh well. My voice is gone....when will it come back?? Two days later. Aunt came and took me away...told mom and she was mad, beyond mad. But they did understand my reasoning behind not telling them.

Recovered for three weeks...first week and a half was hard!! I slept most of the time. My energy improved and then I was cleaning machine. Took a week off the gym...boy was it hard to get back into it....but I did.

I have now been back to work for two weeks now. Still hard but I definitely feel better than I did.

Whew...sorry for being so long winded!

Hugs,
Traci

The Dark Side

2007-07-31T15:45:00.001-05:00

Greetings,

About to leave for the dark side again. It is the usual stuff...usual people. Not sure what is going on but really need to let it go and move on. It is funny the mess that people create around themselves.

WEll, about to go an another adventure to Minnesota. It will be interesting to see what this new city has to offer. I am so excited to see Mike, Abbi and Cyrus. All the other family also...yeah right.

Most people are going only for the long weekend but I will be there for a little longer to ....you know it! Shop!!! Yeah...Quilt Minnesota, Mall of America...all are calling my name.

Pictures will be posted.

Blessings to All!!

T

Me

2007-07-22T09:07:00.000-05:00

Well, I am resting, oh rest is such a good thing.

I went to the gym on yesterday morning...I know, big deal. You always go to the gym. Well, it is a big deal...I had to sneak there. I was told to rest. Well, I did rest...a little. But since I have been eating so bad this week...I had to do something.

My oatmeal raisin cookie addiction isn't the reason...it is because of pita chips and jelly beans, rather jelly belly jelly beans.

One friend received a huge...and I mean huge jar of jelly beans. She doesn't eat them so guess who got them...ME!!!! Luckily, I can't eat many at once but several times throughout the day...yeah baby. They are wonderful, better than any chocolate could ever be...oh my.

Okay...what is your little piece of heaven?? Mine is oatmeal raisin cookies and jelly belly jelly beans.

Well...gotta go. Looking at houses today...yuck!

Bad Start to My Day

2007-07-08T19:18:00.000-05:00

I thought it was supposed to rain this morning...what happened? Well, it didn't rain so I pulled my big butt out of bed, alone, to go speed walk on the greenway. I should have stayed in bed...how many times have you said that!
Well, I get to the greenway...it is warm, like a warm shower or the bathroom after taking a warm shower. Immediately I think...oh no! Well, since we went out to dinner last night in Nashville...I knew I had to do the 5 miles and just suck it up.
Well, my legs felt like I had weights attached to them. But I continued on. Why do some people not speak...have you ever wondered that?? When I was a little girl everyone spoke to each other..Hello, how are you? If I would pass an adult and not say hello....my grandmother would look at me like I was possessed and never said a thing..but I knew I was in the wrong immediately. I think that is why I speak to everyone....manners for the old days.

Well, I continued my walk through hell...at the 1 mile mark, I feel sweat oozing down my back. Yuck, I hate to sweat! I continue on...another non-speaker but I shout....GOOD MORNING! I think I shocked him...he spoke, the first time ever. Mile 1.5 I encounter the "lovers", why oh why do you have to hold hands and walk...you could have done that in your neighborhood. This is for real exercisers not lovers. I sprint around them...heavy legs and all. Now sweat is easing down my face...my hair is totally wet. My nice pretty light blue shirt is wet with sweat....yuck, yuck and double yuck!! I even feel sweat in my underwear....gross. I hope I don't look as bad as I feel...I know I smell bad...even to me.

I make it to the turn around....only 2 more miles to go. Oops, I forgot my dollar again for the water..next time for sure.

I am on fire now...literally and exercise wise. I fly pass the lovers again...they aren't walking, they are looking at a bird or water or something nature like.....they are really grossing me out. I pass the old people. I even fly by a roller blader. The back of my shirt is soaking wet....I am burning up. Damn, the sun is out now. I turn up the music on my MP3 player....I will drown out crap with some Prince....Purple Rain is great for that.

I pass the bridge....thank you Lord I am almost back to the car...actually 0.5 miles away from the car.

Well, I made it 0.25 miles and now I can cool down....whew! That was hard, this walk is never hard. I wonder if the added humidity has something to do with it. The thermometer in the truck says it is 78 degrees outside...now , I really don't believe that at all. I made it....I stretch and get into the truck and drive to Kroger. Yes, I took my sweating, smelly self grocery shopping....we need food. Hopefully, I won't run into anyone I know....because they will get a noseful for sure.

We have done nothing this weekend but lounge. I went shoe shopping in Nashville and then the couch and I have been one all weekend long. New books, great movies and sports...I napped during most of the sporting events. Tennis and golfing ...yuck!!! Oops, I am playing golf with my uncle next week....maybe it will rain, one can only hope. Why don't my cousins learn how to play golf....idiots!

Happy days and blessings to all!

T.

New Fabrics

2007-07-05T18:13:00.000-05:00

Well, my work week at the dark place is over...thank you LORD! Talking about hardwork, I can't tell you how bad the past few days have been.

But enough about that...time to get to something I love.

I went to the gym this afternoon and worked out. Had to get rid of all the negative trash that was in me from the work week. I really shouldn't work extra, it truly affects who I am and how I react to people. I can't tell you how many people I have had to apologize to in past 24 hours.

My plans are to rest, shop and rest some more.

Life is great....get out and enjoy it before you can't.

Hugs,
ME

Good Morning

2007-06-29T08:42:00.000-05:00

Good Morning All!

Well, had to say goodbye to a really good friend last night. She and her family are moving back to Texas. I will miss her greatly! Ate at her favorite restaurant ...Rosie's. I was good...I had a Salad and just a couple of chips. I guess I will see in another week if this diary entry diet is going to work. The nutritionist insist that it will.

On a good personal front...I wore my white pants and they were really loose in the hips...that is good. But the thighs continue to hold on...why, why!!!???

WEll off to the gym this AM.

Tonight I will meet with the girls for out Night out.

Have a happy safe holiday weekend. I will be at the dark place.

Happy 4th of July!!!

Lake Tahoe

2007-06-25T20:17:00.000-05:00

Got a call today from my uncle...there is a fire in Lake Tahoe...very near our beloved home. So sad the number of homes already lost. I am praying for all affected by this fire so so sad. Trying to think of others . There are people who live there full time...this is their home, their only home. I can't imagine lossing everything, your collectibles, your underwear...everything!

Today I went to get new shoes for the Escort...always a big ordeal! Well, I now have to wait until tomorrow for the tire place to get the tires...don't they know I have to go to the dark place tomorrow????I also need a haircut. I have a nutritionist appointment tomorrow too...too much to do in one day before I have to work...yuck!

I also have lots of laundry to do plus I have to get my fat butt to the gym......so I guess no sleep for me tomorrow. Oh well, I will make it....I hope.

Have a wonderful day all!!!

Good Days....New Inspiration

2007-06-08T16:16:00.000-05:00

New quilt....great isn't it!

It is amazing the amount of time I spend doing nothing....or wasting time that I could be cleaning or organizing something.

My new hobby....gaming is beginning to take a lot of my time. First I was just playing the games, then I became a tester....the testing part is hard because you have to try to make the game crash....some are easier to crash then others. I am really shocked with some of the games I get to evaluate...what were these people thinking of. I try to give a complete and fair evaluation to all...some of those games are just bad and you really can't expect people to pay money for something you created in a day.

Now back to the sewing room clean up...not doing anything today...reading, relaxing and just plain doing nothing... did however get my fat butt to the gym. Not sure what the plan is for the night...probably more of the same. Have some DVDs that I want to watch....hope there isn't a game on....tired of sports.

Went out to dinner with friends last night.....great food, good conversation...an excellent time! Very grateful for my friends. Got bad news last night too....friend is getting divorced! Aww...just don't know what to say. I know she feels she can do better and that she is tired of living her life a certain way...but things aren't always great by yourself.

The Cold Shoulder??

2007-06-05T18:28:00.000-05:00

My Time at the "dark place" this week is over. Not a bad place to work but sometimes it is so difficult to understand the people who work there. People say it is because there are a bunch of women working there together...I don't agree.

Cold Shoulder...well, that is when people you at one time called friends or thought of as your friend suddenly stop talking to you. Avoid eye contact with you....basically treat you like you have a communicable disease. That is what is happening to me at the "dark place". Should I worry....some say no because these people were not really your friends to start with but I will be honest with you it does hurt. It isn't a hurt that has lasted longer than a minute but it did hurt for a period of time.

I treat everyone the same....I am fair to all. I don't favor anyone and don't expect anyone to favor me. But to my friends I am true to the bitter end . Is it wrong to expect that in return?? I say no....I have two wonderful friends that I have had in my life for 20 years and 42 years respectively.....they have seen the good and bad. Been there through good me and bad me. Supported me through my psychotic breaks and breakdowns. True friends who see no color , no wrong...supporters through thick , thin and bad men, and boy have there been some bad men, Now that is friendship!

Do I feel bad about the "cold shoulder" ....sure, but will I survive? DAMN STRAIGHT! So Cold shoulder people....bring it on!!! And...get a LIFE.

Now, back to the purpose of this blog....organization. What a wonderful idea...hehe! WEll, I will have to get a move on....people coming to visit and my guest room is a total disaster AGAIN!!

Well, another thing happening....big birthday planning for the man...he has no idea what is happening and why should he since his birthday was two months ago! It is going to be so much fun.....! Friends and family flying in for the occassion....fun, fun and more fun!

Until next time...may your worries be light and your blessings be many!

ME

I am BACK

2007-05-28T16:59:00.000-05:00

I was thinking of waiting until next month to post again but I decided today was a great day so here I am!!!

Memorial Day 2007 marks my new year of Blogging.

Today I spent the day with my friends Lynne and Carolyn. The men folk went deep sea fishing...yippee. Taught them both how to make a crystal bracelet and we had a great dinner.

Tonight I plan to sleep...and sleep deeply.

So how is the sewing room redo going...well, I am still at it. I have started once again. I have a new large cutting table with cabinets underneath. I also have a large cabinet for fabric storage. There are three other cabinets that need to be installed but I haven't cleaned the room out enough to bring them in.

The good thing about moving things around is that I am purging the room at the same time. When I started sewing I purchased everything I thought I might ever need. Now I know myself a lot better and really don't need every new gadget that immerges.

My new hobby is beading...doesn't take up much room so that is a good thing!! But costs about the same.

Have a great day!!

ME!

Happy 4th of July

2006-06-30T12:06:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July everyone!

I am working at the "dark" place the entire weekend and holiday.
I wish I could be with my family but I will be there next year!

Still vacationing from quilting and sewing.

My life will be changing in the upcoming months...so hang in there. I will be back in the sewing room soon!

Stay safe!

Happy Memorial Day Everyone

2006-05-25T11:20:00.000-05:00

Taking a well deserved break! See everyone next week.

Take Care!

Taking a Break

2006-05-20T13:52:00.000-05:00

I am taking a break from the sewing room for now. I need to work at the dark place for the next four days and then I am free for a long time..actually only 8 days. That is if I don't change my schedule which I probably will.

Summer has arrived here and I am miserable!! Why, why, why!!

I want to move to an area that doesn't get above 75...wouldn't that be wonderful.

If anyone knows of such a place...email me the location. Also, there needs to be a dark place nearby where I can work.

Love you!

Friends and Food

2006-05-18T21:39:00.000-05:00

Another restaurant has been visited by hungry quilters. My first and only meal of the day was just...okay. I am full and somewhat satisfied. The chips and guacamole were good and so was the salsa.
Will I visit again...maybe. There are a lot of other restaurants in the area...love the juice bar.

Take care and happy days everyone!