Some of you guessed what was going on with my circle geese block. For those that didn't, here is the deal....There are two patterns for this block. One pattern is for the geese to fly clockwise and one for the geese to fly counter-clockwise. I used the clockwise pattern and did it backwards. 

I wasn't the only one having problems. Go give Madame Samm's circling geese a gander. You will be glad you did!

Off to try a different pattern. I need more practice! 

Some of you guessed what was going on with my circle geese block. For those that didn't, here is the deal....There are two patterns for this block. One pattern is for the geese to fly clockwise and one for the geese to fly counter-clockwise. I used the clockwise pattern and did it backwards. 

I wasn't the only one having problems. Go give Madame Samm's circling geese a gander. You will be glad you did!

Off to try a different pattern. I need more practice! 

Mail call!

I received my first issue of Quiltmaker magazine today. I won a subscription from Happy Cottage Quilter in April. =D 

Do you subscribe to any quilting magazines? What are your favorites? 

I received my first issue of Quiltmaker magazine today. I won a subscription from Happy Cottage Quilter in April. =D 

Do you subscribe to any quilting magazines? What are your favorites? 

The blocks.

The instructions. 

Notice anything?

The blocks.

The instructions. 

Notice anything?

Friends!! If you haven't already, skip on over to Quilting Bloggers Gallery and add your blog to the directory. It's free and you just might find a new blog or ten to read. 

Or perhaps you are looking for some new quilt shops to visit this summer. You can find them at Quilting Bloggers Gallery , too. 

Do you have a quilting product you want to sell or buy? You can find it at Quilting Bloggers Gallery.

Oh, did I mention The Learning Center at Quilting Bloggers Gallery is hosted by Pat Sloan?

And there is so much more. Trust me, go and get your blog listed, you will be glad you did.

Have a great weekend! =)

Friends!! If you haven't already, skip on over to Quilting Bloggers Gallery and add your blog to the directory. It's free and you just might find a new blog or ten to read. 

Or perhaps you are looking for some new quilt shops to visit this summer. You can find them at Quilting Bloggers Gallery , too. 

Do you have a quilting product you want to sell or buy? You can find it at Quilting Bloggers Gallery.

Oh, did I mention The Learning Center at Quilting Bloggers Gallery is hosted by Pat Sloan?

And there is so much more. Trust me, go and get your blog listed, you will be glad you did.

Have a great weekend! =)

Connie's Quilt Shop is my favorite local quilt shop. This week she is celebrating her 20th Anniversary by having a four day sale. Everything, even her sale fabric and remnants that have already been marked down, is on sale for 20% off!

Yesterday was the first day of the sale....Yes, I went shopping, and yes, I was one of the first ones in the door. =)

I love Connie. =)

Before I left, I took notes on things to look for so I wouldn't get distracted by all the eye candy in her shop. I wanted to buy wisely.

Okay, confess...Tell me I am not the only one whose quilting gloves get grungy looking? There is still some life left in them, but for when I decide to toss them I have a brand new pair waiting for me at 20% off. I love Machingers. They make a world of difference when quilting. 

My stash lacks tone on tone fabrics in creams and whites. The cream was a remnant and already marked down so I got a deal at an extra 20% off. 

These are bright, aren't they! Both were in the remnants bin. I bought a paper pricing pattern by Judy Niemeyer and I am beginning to collect batiks for that project. 

More remnants. Gotta have polka dots! 

Making the string quilts revealed how low I am on purple and orange, so a few fat quarters of those two colors was in order. I also have been wanting some black polka dots on white. Maybe to add to my string quilt? 

My two sister-in-loves adore Snoopy and Peanuts. I got some yardage to make something for them for Christmas as a surprise. 

The two panels of Dolly Dresses was my only impulse buy. I love them and will find a little girl or two to make something for them out of it. 

My husband gave me a budget and I stayed under it. I am pretty proud of myself....

Did I mention I was going back this afternoon with a friend? I may not be staying under budget after all. *wink*

Connie's Quilt Shop is my favorite local quilt shop. This week she is celebrating her 20th Anniversary by having a four day sale. Everything, even her sale fabric and remnants that have already been marked down, is on sale for 20% off!

Yesterday was the first day of the sale....Yes, I went shopping, and yes, I was one of the first ones in the door. =)

I love Connie. =)

Before I left, I took notes on things to look for so I wouldn't get distracted by all the eye candy in her shop. I wanted to buy wisely.

Okay, confess...Tell me I am not the only one whose quilting gloves get grungy looking? There is still some life left in them, but for when I decide to toss them I have a brand new pair waiting for me at 20% off. I love Machingers. They make a world of difference when quilting. 

My stash lacks tone on tone fabrics in creams and whites. The cream was a remnant and already marked down so I got a deal at an extra 20% off. 

These are bright, aren't they! Both were in the remnants bin. I bought a paper pricing pattern by Judy Niemeyer and I am beginning to collect batiks for that project. 

More remnants. Gotta have polka dots! 

Making the string quilts revealed how low I am on purple and orange, so a few fat quarters of those two colors was in order. I also have been wanting some black polka dots on white. Maybe to add to my string quilt? 

My two sister-in-loves adore Snoopy and Peanuts. I got some yardage to make something for them for Christmas as a surprise. 

The two panels of Dolly Dresses was my only impulse buy. I love them and will find a little girl or two to make something for them out of it. 

My husband gave me a budget and I stayed under it. I am pretty proud of myself....

Did I mention I was going back this afternoon with a friend? I may not be staying under budget after all. *wink*

Pam is a dear sister in the Lord, and she blessed the ladies in our church by opening her home and sharing  good food, great coffee, delishious tea 

and 

gorgeous eye candy!

How cute is this American Jane quilt? And look at her "K!" It's made out of mother-of-pearl buttons. It sparkled and shined. 

But wait...It gets better. Look at her hexagon quilt that she made and is hand quilting. She didn't paper piece or use templates. She cut out each and every hexie with her scissors. Not only that, do you see the fabric? Some of it is Simplicity, my most favorite fabric line ever! I wish I could figure out what other lines of fabric was used. You see, Pam doesn't know because she got all the fabric at a garage sale. Garage sale! She hit the mother lode, don't you agree?

Can you see her stitches? They are so perfect and tiny. I could kick myself for not taking a picture of her with her quilt. Next time...

Now I think I need to get serious and make one, too. It doesn't have to be a big bed size quilt, right? =) I am going to use my hexagon templates for mine, though. 

Actually, I want to make both of these quilts. 

Thanks, Pam, for your precious hospitality last night and for sharing your talent with us. =) 

Pam is a dear sister in the Lord, and she blessed the ladies in our church by opening her home and sharing  good food, great coffee, delishious tea 

and 

gorgeous eye candy!

How cute is this American Jane quilt? And look at her "K!" It's made out of mother-of-pearl buttons. It sparkled and shined. 

But wait...It gets better. Look at her hexagon quilt that she made and is hand quilting. She didn't paper piece or use templates. She cut out each and every hexie with her scissors. Not only that, do you see the fabric? Some of it is Simplicity, my most favorite fabric line ever! I wish I could figure out what other lines of fabric was used. You see, Pam doesn't know because she got all the fabric at a garage sale. Garage sale! She hit the mother lode, don't you agree?

Can you see her stitches? They are so perfect and tiny. I could kick myself for not taking a picture of her with her quilt. Next time...

Now I think I need to get serious and make one, too. It doesn't have to be a big bed size quilt, right? =) I am going to use my hexagon templates for mine, though. 

Actually, I want to make both of these quilts. 

Thanks, Pam, for your precious hospitality last night and for sharing your talent with us. =) 

The beginning of my first string quilt. I need to set it aside for now, but I won't be leaving it alone for too long. I really love this one. 

The beginning of my first string quilt. I need to set it aside for now, but I won't be leaving it alone for too long. I really love this one. 

...and a little bit of 

weeding,

mulching,

sewing,

and tonight, a child young man is graduating. 

...and a little bit of 

weeding,

mulching,

sewing,

and tonight, a child young man is graduating. 

Run to your Father's arms and nestle in His bosom!

(James Smith, "Comfort for Christians!")

"Be still--and know that I am God!" Psalm 46:10

This is God's message to His people, even during the most terrible convulsions of nature, the most cruel wars, and the most painful trials! The Lord reigns and works, even in the most dreadful circumstances.

The Lord is constantly doing His will, and accomplishing His purposes--and He never forgets His promises.

Be childlike. Run to your Father's arms and nestle in His bosom! Realize safety in your Father's love and power. He will tenderly . . .
  hold you in the hollow of His hand,
  hide you under His wings, and
  carry you in His bosom as the shepherd does the lamb.

"Be still," for though painful at present--your trial will soon be over. Know that God is supreme and works all things after the counsel of His own will. Know that God never loses sight of you, or forgets your frame and your weakness. Exercise patience, relieve your burdened heart by prayer--and wait in full expectation of a blessing.

As the darkest cloud, often bears the most fruitful shower--so the darkest circumstances, often usher in the choicest mercies. Only . . .
  yield yourself to God,
  keep close to the loving heart of God,
  and submit to the will of God.
Then you will be able to . . .
  carry any cross,
  bear any trial, or
  endure any affliction!

Be silent, be calm, be still--the Lord rules as King forever!

Do not complain--for it will displease the Lord.
Do not murmur--for it will grieve Him.
Do not fear--for it will dishonor Him.

Instead, be still--for your safety is provided for.
Be still--for your needs shall be supplied.
Be still--for all things shall work together for your good.
Be still--for God bids you, and all will end well.

Take me into Your nearness, dear Lord, and help me to be still. Calm my foolish fears and my fearful imaginations. In all of life, help me, O Lord, to be still.

   ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Run to your Father's arms and nestle in His bosom!

(James Smith, "Comfort for Christians!")

"Be still--and know that I am God!" Psalm 46:10

This is God's message to His people, even during the most terrible convulsions of nature, the most cruel wars, and the most painful trials! The Lord reigns and works, even in the most dreadful circumstances.

The Lord is constantly doing His will, and accomplishing His purposes--and He never forgets His promises.

Be childlike. Run to your Father's arms and nestle in His bosom! Realize safety in your Father's love and power. He will tenderly . . .
  hold you in the hollow of His hand,
  hide you under His wings, and
  carry you in His bosom as the shepherd does the lamb.

"Be still," for though painful at present--your trial will soon be over. Know that God is supreme and works all things after the counsel of His own will. Know that God never loses sight of you, or forgets your frame and your weakness. Exercise patience, relieve your burdened heart by prayer--and wait in full expectation of a blessing.

As the darkest cloud, often bears the most fruitful shower--so the darkest circumstances, often usher in the choicest mercies. Only . . .
  yield yourself to God,
  keep close to the loving heart of God,
  and submit to the will of God.
Then you will be able to . . .
  carry any cross,
  bear any trial, or
  endure any affliction!

Be silent, be calm, be still--the Lord rules as King forever!

Do not complain--for it will displease the Lord.
Do not murmur--for it will grieve Him.
Do not fear--for it will dishonor Him.

Instead, be still--for your safety is provided for.
Be still--for your needs shall be supplied.
Be still--for all things shall work together for your good.
Be still--for God bids you, and all will end well.

Take me into Your nearness, dear Lord, and help me to be still. Calm my foolish fears and my fearful imaginations. In all of life, help me, O Lord, to be still.

   ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Sweet Friday...

I am so glad it's Friday!! Russ has been home late all week due to taking a refresher course he is taking on motorcycle safety. The class takes Friday nights off and resumes on Monday. Only a few more late nights to go. =) 

I have no trouble keeping myself busy....I got out my 30's bin and dug around. I had forgotten about these orphan blocks I made with left over HST's last year. After playing around, I settled on this layout and made a small baby/stroller blanket or table topper. All from scraps, which is fun. 

The backing is fabric I bought at an estate sale last year. 

Last week I made a tote bag for a gal at church. It was the first time I put a zippered pocket in a lining for a bag. It was very easy! Don't be afraid to try. You can find a great tutorial on how to do this on Melissa's blog Happy Quilting. 

Please remember to keep Pat and her family in your prayers. This will be a very difficult weekend for them and for the many other mom's who have empty arms due to the loss of a child. 

Thanks, my friends....

I am so glad it's Friday!! Russ has been home late all week due to taking a refresher course he is taking on motorcycle safety. The class takes Friday nights off and resumes on Monday. Only a few more late nights to go. =) 

I have no trouble keeping myself busy....I got out my 30's bin and dug around. I had forgotten about these orphan blocks I made with left over HST's last year. After playing around, I settled on this layout and made a small baby/stroller blanket or table topper. All from scraps, which is fun. 

The backing is fabric I bought at an estate sale last year. 

Last week I made a tote bag for a gal at church. It was the first time I put a zippered pocket in a lining for a bag. It was very easy! Don't be afraid to try. You can find a great tutorial on how to do this on Melissa's blog Happy Quilting. 

Please remember to keep Pat and her family in your prayers. This will be a very difficult weekend for them and for the many other mom's who have empty arms due to the loss of a child. 

Thanks, my friends....

Morning....

Once again I have gone into my shell and got quiet. For those who have been visiting here awhile know I do that from time to time.

One reason in particular caused me to withdraw...A woman I don't know, a blogger that I had never read before, was brought to my attention by Melissa @ Happy Cottage Quilter. You see, Pat, a dear lovely lady, was anxiously awaiting the arrival of her grandson, Jackson on Monday....And for reasons only known to God, he was taken straight from this earth into Heaven. My heart has been sad ever since. I know how it feels, to some degree, to long to be a grandmother and then have it taken away at the last moment. The "almost grandma." That's how I think of myself and it makes me sad to think another woman has joined that club. So close, and yet....

If you would want to offer some words of comfort to Pat and her family, I am sure she would very much appreciate it. You can find her at Silver Thimble Talk. This is going to be a very difficult Mother's Day for her and her family....I can't even imagine...

Morning....

Once again I have gone into my shell and got quiet. For those who have been visiting here awhile know I do that from time to time.

One reason in particular caused me to withdraw...A woman I don't know, a blogger that I had never read before, was brought to my attention by Melissa @ Happy Cottage Quilter. You see, Pat, a dear lovely lady, was anxiously awaiting the arrival of her grandson, Jackson on Monday....And for reasons only known to God, he was taken straight from this earth into Heaven. My heart has been sad ever since. I know how it feels, to some degree, to long to be a grandmother and then have it taken away at the last moment. The "almost grandma." That's how I think of myself and it makes me sad to think another woman has joined that club. So close, and yet....

If you would want to offer some words of comfort to Pat and her family, I am sure she would very much appreciate it. You can find her at Silver Thimble Talk. This is going to be a very difficult Mother's Day for her and her family....I can't even imagine...

I said last night I would never make this block again. I was frustrated with how one of the blocks was going together. 

Now that it's done

and I can see the big picture

I can honestly say it was worth all the frustration. 

I love this quilt....

I haven't decided about a boarder and what fabric to use. I'm all ears if anyone has a suggestion. =)

I said last night I would never make this block again. I was frustrated with how one of the blocks was going together. 

Now that it's done

and I can see the big picture

I can honestly say it was worth all the frustration. 

I love this quilt....

I haven't decided about a boarder and what fabric to use. I'm all ears if anyone has a suggestion. =)

A couple more Swoon blocks are finished. The points are not perfect, but I am calling it good. 

For those who would want to know, I have found that pressing the seams open is the way to go with this block. There are so many seams and no easy way to know which way to press them to get them to lock or nestle. Open makes a much flatter and nicer block. Just my 2 cents. =) 

I bought a few yards of fabric in Kalona and forgot to share. The Pure fabric is decorator weight and it was 1/2 off. Whoop! It's such nice fabric...The batiks are the beginnings of my collecting to make a New York Beauty quilt. I really loved that quilt in the show and want to make one. Yes, I confess I have been dreaming about that quilt. 

I found these beautiful blue knobs at an antique store. I haven't decided what I am going to do with them quite yet. I am thinking of using them as ceiling fan pulls in my kitchen. 

I suppose I had better get back to making more Swoon blocks. =) Three down, six to go...

A couple more Swoon blocks are finished. The points are not perfect, but I am calling it good. 

For those who would want to know, I have found that pressing the seams open is the way to go with this block. There are so many seams and no easy way to know which way to press them to get them to lock or nestle. Open makes a much flatter and nicer block. Just my 2 cents. =) 

I bought a few yards of fabric in Kalona and forgot to share. The Pure fabric is decorator weight and it was 1/2 off. Whoop! It's such nice fabric...The batiks are the beginnings of my collecting to make a New York Beauty quilt. I really loved that quilt in the show and want to make one. Yes, I confess I have been dreaming about that quilt. 

I found these beautiful blue knobs at an antique store. I haven't decided what I am going to do with them quite yet. I am thinking of using them as ceiling fan pulls in my kitchen. 

I suppose I had better get back to making more Swoon blocks. =) Three down, six to go...

=) 

=)