Summer Sampler Series

While I'm working on my applique quilt, I decided to join the quilt along over at Fresh Lemons.  Three blocks a week are given and I thought I could handle that when I needed a break from needle-turning.

This is what a have done so far, the Greek Cross and the Virginia Star.  I've decided to cut into my Flower Sugar Stash from Lecien as well as some Old New 30's Collection from Lecien that I didn't even know I had in my stash.  I really like working on one block at a time and not having tons to cut out.  It's fun to wait to see what the next block is.  There's still plenty of time to join in on the fun!

The blocks are mirroring the colors in the garden right now.  My daisies are in full bloom.  I wanted to let you know that the Bella Bag from yesterday's post is one of the easiest I've made, even with the grommets.  Don't hesitate to try it!

Smiles,

The Bella Bag

My daughter wanted a summer bag and after looking at the local department stores and not wanting to spend an average of $65 for a purse, she turned to me and said, "Mom, can't you make me a bag?"  I certainly can, but was waiting to be asked.  You know how sometimes our kids don't want things that look homemade when all their friends are sporting the new Vera bag.

We set off to the fabric shop and found this pattern.  She then took some time picking out fabric.  I tried to stay out of it and let her choose what she liked.  She also decided that she wanted the covered buttons to give it a more finished look and longer straps so she could wear it across her body.  It was fun to make.  I hope that she will develop a spark for sewing on her own, but for now I'm thrilled that she's thrilled with her new summer bag!

Joyfully,

Vintage Sheet Giveaway Winner!

It's time to announce the winner of the Vintage Sheet Giveaway!  The Random Number Generator selected #4.  A big congratulations to The Happy Cottage Quilter!  Be sure to stop over and visit her wonderful blog!  Sweet Blessings Today!

Hugs,

Vintage Sheet Giveaway

There comes a time in a quilter's life when one must take a realistic look at their stash.  There is not enough hours to accomplish all that I want to do.  With that said, it's time to part with my vintage sheet stash, and I mean all of it!

With the exception of a couple of cuts, these are whole sheets and pillow cases.  To enter for a chance to win, leave me a comment telling me you are a follower.  I will close comments on Tuesday at midnight and announce the winner the next day by random generator.  I will be taking a blogging break until Tuesday.

For ideas on how to use vintage sheets, check out Jen's The Vintage Sheet Blog where she is currently doing a giveaway for a Go! Baby Accuquilt Die Cut Machine.  Sweet blessings to you and I'll be back on Tuesday!

Hugs,

Stitching Flowers

Today finds me working on some flower applique and really enjoying the process.  There is something very soothing about handwork, if you don't rush it.

I stepped out into the garden this morning and this day lily was there to greet me.  They have all just started blooming.  A couple of years ago I visited a local day lily farm and brought home some beauties. I wish the farm was still there so that you could see the fields of lilies, but the owner closed recently.

The daisies are in bloom.  I planted many of these in the garden as they are my Mother's favorite flower. These big ones make quite a show and are such a happy looking flower.

Peter Rabbit resides over all, just inside the garden gate.  I watched "Miss Potter" again over the weekend.  I can't help myself, I just love that movie!

Smiles,

Precious Faces

One of the days I was helping to get the farm ready for the next wedding I saw some movement in one of the barns.  Taking a closer look, I soon saw four little faces looking at me curiously.

On closer inspection we could see that the neighbors cat had made a home in the barn to have her babies.  A quiet spot away from the bleating of the sheep in her own barn.

I cannot recall a summer where I did not see baby kitties on the farm.  There is something about those loving little faces.  They are people shy and my high-powered lens was the only way to get a picture close up.

Do you see the paw sticking out of the barn?  There was a little game of teasing going on between a couple of the siblings.  Mama is a beautiful grey and white cat as well.  There is always something fun to find at the farm.  Blessings!

Hugs,

Wedding Quilt

I had a wonderful time at the wedding I attended on Friday.  I want to share with you the quilt that I made for them.  The pattern came from the summer issue of "Quilts and More".  It's titled "Pick-It Fences".   A fun and easy quilt to make.  It's a nice size at 85 in. square.  I can see myself making it again with scraps.  It would have also made a lovely red, white and blue quilt.

The bride used cobalt blue in her color scheme, wearing cobalt blue shoes with her dress.  I really liked the combination of blue and green with white.  My friend, Mary, did the beautiful quilting using a verigated blue thread.  I really liked the way she added movement to the quilt with the stitching.

It was fun to make such a special gift for such a wonderful young couple.  The wedding was one of the most beautiful, Christ-centered weddings I have ever attended.  The food was carefully thought out as was the jazz music.  A truly magical night.  Blessings to all today!

A very happy fourth of July!