Cricketwood Prims n' Gardens

Will it be finished this Christmas?

2011-11-29T19:07:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I started making a Christmas Quilt from a Needle Love book.   I wasn't crazy about it at all so it was layed aside. After much shopping for and collecting wools I decided one day early this month to give it a peek. Yep, I still didn't like it. So I began pulling basted pieces off, it was really pathetic but I knew my knew stash was going to make me much happier.

I needed to felt the wool pieces for one thing, the poinsettia leaves were cut from a wool piece I purchased but it had not been felted!   Gasp! I know, how could I have been so naive. :))

And how about some overdyed plaids, :))) for some of the poinsettia leaves, yes it is looking so much better, a little sprinkle of textured green plaids for the holly. Be still my heart, my stash of wools are so fun to cut up I can hardly stand it.

If you ever saw a kit and said, " I'm sure I have enough at home to make this, I don't need the kit." Well let me say I have said that but I KNOW that is never true. $$$$$$$ dollars of wool purchases later I am finally satisfied with my choices for this quilt.    But I have about 4 Buggy Barn trips and multiple other wonderful quilt shop memories collecting all my wonderful wools.

I decided it needed a little tweaking, moving pieces out and centering better but I love it now and even if it doesn't get finished for Christmas I know I could visit one here in Bend that is finished and mostly likely decorating a wonderful families home!

We had the most wonderful Thanksgiving with family in Seattle. My niece had a baby boy Tuesday before Thanksgiving. My sister is a grandmother and I am a great-aunt. Isn't that just the greatest thing. Holding Davis, who was born at 7lb 2 oz. I kept thinking he is 2 pounds bigger than Ethan and 3 pounds bigger than Hayden but is so small. I swaddled him with such ease, nice to know I haven't lost my touch. I am so happy for them and will enjoy all their Facebook posts giving me my Davis updates.

My last post was so long ago, and about my precious Slide girl. I must tell you she passed away mid June, breaking my heart. I'm a total sap and still cry when I talk about her, you never know how much a pet or a person can mean to you until you lose them.

Until next time....God Bless and Keep You!

Carrie

Man's Best Friends

2011-01-16T20:18:00.000-08:00

In 2005 my son and I got ourselves a wonderful friend. Black Pearl's Treasure aka Dublin's Mudslide aka Slide.
She has been such a mate, she is definitely our dog and very much my dog. She has so much desire to please, which makes her fun to train. A bit sensitive but she is a girl after all.

This last year she was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy. She has a very large heart and all the complications which go along with that. I'm afraid she is going to break my heart!!

So I want to share a few good things before this happens. Each day is a gift because you just don't know when the inevitable will happen.

Some of my favorite puppy pictures.....

Hunting as a pup on the Malheur.....

Hunting as a pup near Condon, such beautiful country, she is showing her natural ability to honor another dog on point. Slide held her honor until the shot, I was so tickled with her. Joe was really in heaven on this hunt. A young pup learning from Daisy Mae, his beloved veteran dog.

I started Slide in Hunt Tests and had such a good time, she loves her bird hunting and we have had some great times together. February we will take part in the club hunt at local preserve hunting pheasants.

We are hoping for more time with Slide and taking each day, one at a time. Her medicines are treating the issues in her heart but this will only work for a time.

I don't even want to think about the Rainbow Bridge, for now I enjoy the special companionship that my girlie gives me everyday.

Have a wonderful week.

Carrie

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T22:28:00.000-08:00

This year has just flown by for me!!   Managing our Subway restaurant really has been a life change. Blogging definitely has been more about reading than posting.   I have misplaced my camera for 3 months now and it isn't as much fun to post without pictures.

Joe and I spent a wonderful week in Omaha for Christmas. It was such a good time spent with my son and DIL and of course the triplets. They are really growing and changing.   They are pretty good talkers too!! That makes it even more fun, and words are always so cute when they are shortened.    Ethan loves snowmen, he calls them "man!".    And this time of year they are in abundance and he would exclaim "man" whenever he saw one. So cute!! Ethan is walking in a walker, he just amazes me. He has the best attitude and is getting along so well.   He is just getting started on his walking crutches and they will give him even more mobility.
We took a picture at church on Christmas Eve.   It was the best gift to spend Christmas in Omaha with them, such a cherished memory.

Hopefully I will find my camera soon and will show some pictures of my trip to the Buggy Barn in August. I took two very fun classes.

Wishing you a very Happy New Year and may God richly bless you and your loved ones.

Winter Blessings,

Carrie

Celebrating Independence!

2010-07-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

I love all the celebrations around Independence Day!! Liberty, what an awesome gift. Recently, I watched a movie about John Adams and my eyes have been opened to some wonderful American History. I didn't care much for it in school but I do love it now.

I made this small quilt last year for a swap. It was fast and fun since everything was pretty big and easy to machine applique.

Have a safe and fun-filled 4th of July!! America's Independence Day!

God Bless,

Carrie

My quarterly update!!

2010-05-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

I guess I am an all or nothing girl. I haven't accomplished a post in way to long. One big thing at a time, it can be so consuming.

February and March I spent most of my time responding to job listings. I became one of the innumerable ( is that a word) people looking for employment. I sent so many resumes to positions exactly matching my work history. When you don't get responses you really begin to wonder if your resumes just are floating in lala land somewhere. Or worse.......

When I did get one response, they wanted my credit score and they even suggested which company to use. All I needed to give them was the number for the interview. So I did it and guess what....no response! Hmmm, kind of ticked me of if you know what I mean!! And it was a good number to but who needs to check that just for nothing.

So......, after two months of THAT, my DH and I started talking about what is the next fun approach, to you know making money and paying bills.

So to make this story not as boring as my life I will just get to the point. We have decided to invest in a purchase of a Subway restaurant. Aha!!!!! If they won't give you a job, buy one!!

Oh my goodness......I have spent the last three weeks training on all the in and outs of Subway. Starting at 5:30 am most mornings, well all mornings I think and until 3 or so, on Tuesday's coming back for inventory. I come home to Bend on Fridays and back to Eugene on Monday.

It has been most interesting and I am getting the hang of everything pretty much. Did you know how many different sandwiches they have........lol. I always order tuna or turkey/ham. So I even had to study those different portions a bit. My brain is not the sharpest pin the cushion. I can convert fat quarters, to yards much faster or figure how much yardage needed for a border or whole quilt for that matter .......well that is not to be, its "Welcome to Subway!"

So I will have more stories on that later I'm sure.

Other than that I have had some quilty fun!! My DH had a field trial up by Spokane so that meant I got a trip to The Buggy Barn. Woohoo! Love them! I got a refreshener on my needle punch, bought a couple new patterns for needle punch and some new Jo Morton fabrics too.

This store is full of inspiration, and one inspiration is there painted red cabinetry. I want to remodel my office in these gorgeous handmade pieces each time I see them. Someday!!

I am really looking forward to their quilt show and classes this year, Barb and Alma from Blackbird Designs are returning for two days of classes. I signed up for the autumn quilt class, I am really looking forward to meeting them. I love their quilts and love their blog. Speaking of their blog. I was a very lucky girl and won one of their engagement calendars for 2011. It will make next year fun, filling in all those Subway appointments etc. LOL........

It really is a wonderful calendar. The Buggy Barn had some for sale when I was their in April. If you love the pictures on Alma's blog you will love using this too!

In April I spent five days in Omaha with the boys. Mom and Dad went on a trip and us two Gramma's spent 4 days playing and having a wonderful time with the boys. Grammy Terry lives a couple hours away and spends almost every other weekend in Omaha. So the boys were very comfortable and didn't miss mom and dad to bad.

They loved going outside when the weather allowed. They are growing up and are so much fun.

From left, Ethan, Jaxon and Hayden. It was sport shirts day. Hayden is a Nebraska Cornhusker, Ethan is the Oregon Duck. Jaxon sporting his 3rd pair of glasses is the all around sports guy!!

Here is Grammy Terry and Jaxon, outside on the back deck doing puzzles.

And laundry is so fun when you are folding cute little clothes. Hayden keeping me company.

I am looking forward to July when they come out to Oregon, it will be a couple days before their 2nd birthday so we will have a very fun party. Can you just believe that they are going to be two already. They change so much, and man do I love watching their cute little bodies walk around, that and seeing their personalities develop.

Hayden is pretty independent and he loved walking up and down the sidewalk, hand in one pocket. Till we meet again sunshine, I love this picture of him.

So that is a little update on me. I need to get back to paperwork and get ready to leave for my last week of training. When I come back I will have some pictures of my quilty projects and to tell you about a couple of projects I just couldn't resist and joined for this summer. They of course have wool. Also, I will have some completed projects to show, now don't fall off your chair there. I am going to stay on track and get last years BOM completed.

God bless each of you dear bloggy friends, and primitive spring blessings too!!

Fondly,

Carrie

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a special Easter with your family and friends.

Easter blessings,

Carrie

Magna Cum Laude

2010-02-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

I was doing a bit of organizing, cleaning generally moving some dusty things around this morning and uncovered something. It is a little book, The Sixty Sixth Baccalaureate & Commencement for Northwest College, May 2002.

Listed their under Baccalaureate Degrees was my sisters name:

Christie Amans……..Magna Cum Laude…..Bothell, WA

I went and googled to get the definition:

According to Wikipedia.org (even though its Wikipedia its true I learned it in Latin class), these terms are called ''Latin honors'' and are used to "indicate the level of academic distinction with which an academic degree was earned."
Here is a list of Latin honors, in order of increasing level of honor:

"cum laude" (Latin for "with honor")
"magna cum laude" (Latin for "with great honor")
"summa cum laude" (Latin for "with highest honor")

By GPA: Graduation with honors 'cum laude' requirements can vary but in general: Cum laude grade point average estimates: gpa for cum laude - 3.5 to 3.74; gpa for magna cum laude - 3.75 to 3.99; gpa for summa cum laude - 4.0+.

I went to my sisters graduation ceremony and do remember noticing this, but I am just so proud of her that I wanted to share.

Christie is a wonderful sister, I have to say she really has made my life so special for many reasons. She is 6 years older and really included me in her life. She has always been a giver of her life and treasure. She paid all of my travel expenses to go see our Mother in Yuma last month. Just one example of her generosity towards me.

She went to college and became a Dental Hygienist then moved from Oregon to San Jose, CA to go to Bible College for a year. There she met her future husband and made life long friends. She lived in California, where I visited many times, and Texas, what a fun place to visit too!!

The last 12 years her family has lived in Seattle, we have spent most Thanksgivings with them there. After 4 years of moving to Washington she had a big decision regarding her career. She decided to go back to college and get her Baccalaureate Degree, in her 50’s. She was going to college, writing term papers and had an outstanding time doing it.

She has a new career now with Home Instead Senior Care, where she is Human Resource Manager. And I must say she is really a perfect fit.

Christie I am reminded of how very proud of you I am and how lucky I am to be your sister!!

One of my most memorable moments with Christie was in Maui. My daughter was getting married there and we traveled and stayed together with Christie and her husband Larry. We were at the beach going snorkeling, but not Joe, he says no way! Sharks you know!! Well after trying to get flippers and mask on while standing in the surf…..

Christie and I are finally out in the water, sand out of our masks…..Larry is still not so sure. We are saying, "come on in, its great"……. then we see Joe behind Larry waving his arms and everyone else on the beach is too!! So we thought, lets go in closer and see what they want. Well what they wanted to say was there was a shark between us and the beach and now we were swimming right to it!! All I can say is Ignorance is bliss!!

When we noticed we were the only ones in the water we thought just maybe something was up for sure!! LOl……we never saw the shark!

It was fun and we went down the beach a ways to the rocks where more people were and continued our snorkeling…. it was a very fun February memory.

We celebrated Valentines Day very quietly, had a great steak dinner and Joe gave me a very pretty bouquet. Watched some Olympics, I just love the Olympics and always wish they would show them earlier in the evening. We are going to bed after midnight for goodness sakes…..lol!!

Thanks for listening to my sharing of my sister, I would love to hear your special memories too!!

Prim blessings,

Carrie

Visit with Mom and Quilt Show

2010-02-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Well I was so excited to go out to lunch yesterday I did not look at my post very closely. Oops…..I didn’t upload any of the quilt show pictures. Lol….guess that gives me a good reason to come back today!!

Like I mentioned, the weather was quite rainy, 1.89 inches in twelve hours.

Here is the rain pouring off the patio, the best thing is mom had no leaks. Mom did some updates to her park model in Yuma, it is the perfect size now for her and guests when we come to visit.

We were going to go up to Tucson for a couple days but changed our plans because of the weather. We did find a local quilt guilds quilt show with a nice vendor attendance. These first two quilts were the viewers choice winners from the previous year.

quilting detail.

I love this one!!

These next two had the same maker and were hand quilted. So beautiful. I chose this first one as my viewers choice favorite.

If I had to choose a favorite, or which one would I want for my home this one would be my choice, I loved the colors and the raw edge quilts are so cuddly. And I just had to keep my sister in the picture. :))

We enjoyed the vendors attending the show. My goodness I was mesmerized by Liberty Homesteads booth. They had been to the Road to California show and are attending some small shows on there way home to Kansas. I have never seen there quilts in person and fell in love immediately. We purchased some of their dyed muslins. Books or pictures never do justice for the real item do they. They asked for us to not take pictures of there booth so sorry no pic’s.

One day we ate lunch at this bakery/deli restaurant that I can not remember the name of to save my life. But….here are some pictures of their desserts of which we did not indulge. I would today if I could have a take back. Do you make desserts like this?

These strawberries are so big!

OK enough of that stuff, yum!!

It’s super bowl Sunday this weekend, are you watching the game, having a party or celebrating at your local quilt shop. We haven’t been real big football fans the last few years but I am sure we will watch some. We are going to make some homemade Pizza. I will share the recipe and pictures.

Prim Blessings,

Carrie

Here I am!!

2010-02-04T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010 dear blogging friends. It has been a very long time since I posted and I appreciate hearing from you letting me know I’m missed, MIA and receiving your encouragement.

We, like most of you, had family visit us over the holidays. It was wonderful and very fun. We were so pleased to have Joe’s whole family with us over New Years. My house was filled to the brim, Joe and I still talk about how fun it was to have everyone in our home.

Last month my sister treated me to a trip to Yuma to visit our mother. We were really looking forward to some warm sunny weather. LOL…….how about some sun and lots of rain, wind and a fun time anyway. As it goes, the day we drove to Phoenix to catch our plane it was sunny and getting warm.

It was sunny on this day, we were in Old Town Yuma for the Lettuce Festival. We purchased some fresh fruit and Asparagus for dinner. It was so windy we didn’t spend to much time but opted for a nice warm restaurant for lunch.

We looked up quilt shops and while visiting one learned about a quilt show. We went and I took some pictures:

This week we have a friend staying for the weekend. Meka is staying while her owner is off to Sun Valley Idaho.

It’s a bit crazy here with our 5 lovable GWP’s, my daily conversation’s go like this…..”put that down” , “give me that”, “that’s not yours”, “take that out of your mouth”, “Hey! Bring that back “, “Off the table”, “Off the washer” and “Where did you find that?” And that is just with Casey! Joe calls him our demon dog, but really, he is just the youngest and is still in the VERY busy, nosey, destructive stages of puppyhood!!

Casey, Pepper, Meka, Slide

Casey,Meka,Slide,Pepper and Jake

Daisy Mae, its just impossible to get them all in one picture.

This weekend we will take a few walk abouts, maybe a couple will get a haircut. Pepper needs one, but don’t ask her and Meka, well you just don’t come stay with Carrie and not get some grooming. Poor thing, she always thinks she is in trouble. I will take some pictures because I know you are dying to see more pictures of my dogs. LOL……..

I have been finishing up details on my BOM blocks getting ready to set them together, they have been so much fun. I love all the wool, never never get tired of working with wool. So pictures of that too coming up.

This year I have really resisted joining a multitude of wonderful projects and will focus on finishing my BOM first. One thing I will keep up with is my Jo’s Little Women group at Sew Many Quilts. Then late spring I am going to sew along with the Wool Crazy girls. If you visit this link today you are in for a real treat. I’m so looking forward to this project. I have the wool that’s for sure, are you Wool Crazy too? I have been following the posts and wow, they are looking wonderful.

Well my DH is here now and he is taking me out for lunch!!! It’s Thursday and Baldy’s has Baby Back Rib special every Thursday. Yummo!!! There the best ever!!

God bless each of you and have a wonderful week.

Prim Blessings,

Carrie

Merry December

2009-12-13T16:25:00.001-08:00

WOW!! The Month is half over and I am writing my first post. Good thing its not my job huh, I’d be let go…….given the boot…..adios amigos!

Time just goes by and another day goes by and I don’t get this done. It is fun once I sit down and get going it must be the starting thing, unlike my quilting projects, there its the finish thing.

Anyway Thanksgiving was quiet and very nice……..gee I won’t go on about the last THREE weeks and bore you but it has been that long. Bad Girl!!!

Did you see the blocks on my header. I LOVE them, Kindra made them for me as a gift. Isn’t that just so nice of her. I have seen them around in blogland and spoke with her about them and she up and surprised me this week. I love surprises, they are so fun!! Thank you Kindra, I will treasure them.

Not to be to corny but our blog name kind of becomes our “brand”. It’s been fun this past year sharing my ordinary life like it was book worthy. LOL…….but really life is a big deal!!! I could get real philosophical about the whole thing but suffice it to say we all are worth it. Right…….I mean I spend hours reading all of your wonderful blogs and it is amazing how we all become so important to each other!! Where am I going with this? I have no idea……. but I know those blocks make me smile and blogging wasn’t even something I new much about 18 months ago.

I finished a fun project this week, I had to use a life line and phone a friend about the little noses! Yikes, I haven’t done alot of embroidery and this project had TWELVE noses……

As you can see they are somewhat of a focal point and I was wanting them to be perfect………well I got over that and just jumped in because my lifeline has her own life and has been very busy!!! She did call me today and reminded me we have a mutual friend who I could also have asked. Thanks for the call, it meant alot!

This mat is a Christmas gift and will be off Monday with the rest of the gifts to Omaha!! It is a Primitive Gatherings kit called “Love Ya Man!” It was so much fun to make, working with wool is wonderful.

We are enjoying a kind of heat wave today……..it is 50 degrees warmer than last week. We had more than a week of below zero temperatures and today we are 45. Its awesome!!! It is blue skies and sunny!! It’s almost like summer.. lol!

When we get cold weather we have the biggest icicles, they are pretty cool. I was loving them until I watched the news and they showed pictures of house with ice damns ruining there roofs causing $$$ of repairs bills. So I went out and knocked them down, changed the channel and watched something less scary. There were alot homes and businesses with broken pipes this week and I am so thankful we were not one of them. It kind of makes average temperatures something to be thankful for!!

A friend has started a new blog!!! Michelle of Mocha Moochell used to live in Bend and found mister wonderful and now lives in Portland! She has recently started quilting and is finishing up her teaching credentials. Go over and welcome her to blogging, she is having so much fun with her quilting and has some wonderful quilt shops to share with us!! I will get over to see you, your quilt shop sounds wonderful!

A little update on my boys……

Here they are with Mom at the piano. Krista is a music teacher, doesn’t she look happy!! We will miss them this Christmas, they are growing so fast!

Hayden is walking and is just adorable. They were so fun to shop for this Christmas. Look forward to more videos on Facebook.

Thanks for stopping by, enjoy all the festivities leading up to Christmas. My week is full of parties and decorating, I can’t seem to get it finished this year!

Prim Blessings,

Carrie

Holiday baking

2009-11-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I got the baking bug and started working on my bread recipes. It is a good work out for the arms making bread that's for sure. Years ago I made bread every week, I had a few recipes that we enjoyed. But homemade bread is not the best for my diet, :)) I love it too much so I let it go by the wayside. The holidays is a great time to do some though, I am working on a wheat dough that is a bit lighter for some fluffy rolls. This is a batch of 50 % whole wheat flour and 50 % white flour. I am thinking I will reduce the wheat flour but first I am going to read through some recipes to see what else I could change before reducing the amount of whole wheat.

Here it is in my rising bowl we will enjoy eating it over a couple days then try again.

While Joe was hunting with Pepper, Slide, Jake and Casey, Miss Daisy Mae was my buddy for the weekend. She wasn’t happy at all about being left behind.

Daisy had surgery for the second time on her accruciate ligament. The crimp holding the line together didn’t hold both sides. So the vet did the surgery again for us. Poor little girl, she will be 10 in April and will miss hunting this year. She was enjoying being let out of her crate since she was the only one at home.

And when I told her I would put her on the blog she perked right up. She loves attention and was looking forward to the taste of fresh baked bread.

I made up my favorite apple cake recipe a couple weeks ago, its out of A Taste of Oregon cookbook.

Hood River Fresh Apple Cake

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup shortening

2 eggs

2 cups flour

2 tsps baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

4 cups chopped cooking apples

1 cup chopped nuts

Cream together sugar, shortening, and eggs. Sift the dry ingredients and add to mixture. Add chopped apples and nuts. Bake in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan for 45 minutes at 350 degrees F.

SAUCE:

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup margarine

1/2 cup whipping cream

1/2 tsp vanilla

In a small pan combine sugars, margarine and whipping cream. Bring mixture to a boil, and then add vanilla. Pour sauce over individual servings of cake. It may be warm or cold, but is particularly good warm. Serves 12

This is one of my favorite fall recipes. It goes together quickly and is delicious! This sauce has the most amazing flavors.

I made an apple pie too. I use premade pie crusts, I use to make my own but these are really easy and flaky too.

I let them sit out of the refrigerator at least 20 minutes then roll them out a bitter thinner, I used my leaf shape cutters to make vents and decorated the top of the pie.

I brushed the top crust with egg whites then sprinkled with sugar. It make a pretty pie!

Today I am making pumpkin pies and rolls and looking forward to celebrating Thanksgiving. Yesterday Joe and I went to the store and bought Turkey and all the goodies you need to make the meal. It was fun doing the shopping together.

This year we are not going to Seattle, we are staying in Bend. So we are cooking a 20 lb Turkey and taking it to a homeless shelter and spending some time there serving food. We are looking forward to our day, after all the tough economic times here in Central Oregon its exciting to just get out and share with others. We know we are going to receive much more than we give.

We are so blessed to have a home and good health, the love of family, and Central Oregon is a fabulous area to live. We have great neighbors we enjoy, friends that bless our lives and Joe and I both have been able to enjoy our hobbies so much this year.

We are cooking a smaller Turkey for our celebration, actually we picked out a 12 lb one and it looks much to small…..lol. I’m sure it will be more than enough!!

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration with your loved ones too, God Bless!!

Hugs, Carrie

Friends are one of life’s treasures.

2009-11-13T15:10:00.000-08:00

While I was in Omaha last month I took an outing to meet up with Kindra, who was just by chance participating in a local craft show. Kindra and her mother are a crafting team. So I was so pleased to meet both of them, and see there booth. There booth was full of wonderful handcrafted items and I enjoyed finding a couple special items. It was near the end of the day when I got there so it was slow and we had time to visit, bloggers are just the nicest people and Kindra it was a real treat for me to meet both you and your mom.

I wanted to buy the big star that Kindra made out of reclaimed wood, no way it would fit in my bag so I bought the cute tree that was still there. It will be fun to find the perfect spot for it this Christmas. I love the hand towels Pam makes, they are wonderfully soft and embroidered, I love baskets and she had some done in red and green. My favorite colors. Then there was this wonderful saltbox scene that just pops. Well Kindra, it was one inch to tall but I carried it proudly in my carry-on bag without any problems.

Krista was not able to make the trip, my son was sick that day, so she stayed home with the boys. I missed sharing the trip with her but she loved the towel so I am going to order some for Christmas gifts. I will make it a point to take the trip to see Kindra again on another visit.

I finished this Schnibbles, Winter White, last month. I used the Blessing line by Brannock and Patek from Moda. I am not keeping up with the schedule at all, but that's going to be ok with me I want to enjoy the process and not make a burden out of it.

A few more embroidery stitches on a couple blocks and then I will be ready to sew the blocks together. Karen showed the finished quilt on her blog and it is just so cute with the scalloped wool border. I will be sewing it up soon.

Anne of Cottons and Woolens was so generous and did some shopping for me at quilt market. I gave her some cash and a wish list and bless her soul she got everything on my list.

Maggie Bononami’s new book Nature’s Offering, it is full of wonderful projects big and small. I am definitely putting a few on my 2010 to do list. Primitive Gatherings new pattern along with a bundle of their new brushed wovens. They are fabulous and yummy!! Anne I am going to copy you on your sashing and post’s, they say it is flattery :))!! And a bundle of Jo Morton’s Toast II, and…… three bundles of Andovers Wuthering Heights. Holy Moly this is better than Christmas. I love them Anne!! You were so sweet to take that extra luggage and share the joy with others!

This is a sad time for Anne, know I am keeping you in my prayers. I know you are being surrounded by friends and family who will be a strength for you!! Hugs!!

I went shopping at Country Sampler in Omaha too, I knew Anne was shopping for me at market so I was very good and boring. LOL… its not fun. They have Fig Trees Mill House Inn in flannel, boy that really had my attention but I do not have a little girl to make a quilt for and I just couldn’t justify another bundle to decorate my sewing shelves. They have so many wool kits and goodies there that it is the most fun. I have a couple kits to make up for gifts so I didn’t need to indulge, but its fun to see them made up and not just pictures. What I purchased was there embroidery threads, they carry Weeks and I needed some colors for a couple projects. No one locally carries it so I was tickled to find some. I bought Krista a yummy scented candle. I found some primitive light strands in brown for my mantle that I will use soon. It was fun to browse the store, they have so many wonderful samples it was a treat!

We are having some cold Fall weather with snow in the mountains. Many people will be traveling the passes for the football and basketball games in the valley, my youngest son is going over for basketball so I am nervous for safe driving conditions. The pass is such a beautiful drive, I just don’t like packed snow and ice at all. This doesn’t get better with age, you know what I mean!!!

Tomorrow a local quilt shop, Stitchin Post, in Sisters is having their pajama sale. It’s a big deal with 30% off between 6:30-8:30 am and an extra 5% if you were pajamas. It’s a lot of fun and I am going to meet my girlfriend who lives there and we will see what we can find. You know you can save online tomorrow too, they are giving a 25% discount to online sales. Yeah, I like to share the love with you!! Then we will go out for our favorite coffee shop and have some breakfast too! A girl works up an appetite with all that excitement!!

I am thankful for my friends, blogging has brought many new wonderful people into my life and I count you as my friends. I hope I get the opportunity to meet you in person too. God Bless and have a wonderful weekend.

Hugs, Carrie

I need a second home……..in Omaha!

2009-11-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

I had the best time…….again! Seems like its been to long again but we got to do some fun outings. I know it is going to be just more wonderful each time we visit the triplets. So I am dreaming about having my own home where I can go spend unlimited time, be at there beck and call, one short call away for filling in for anything, anytime they need a hand. Yeah, I said dreaming……but that is what I think about all the way home after a fun, action packed trip to visit the triplets.

Here is a picture of my son, the boys and myself at the farm we we visited. We went for a tractor ride to the pumpkin field, petted animals. The weather held out and didn’t rain on us and we made the outing short for the boys. Short and sweet…..perfect!

I love Denise, didn’t get a picture but she is the boys Nanny!! Just love her and the boys do too! She is a real sweetie and so much fun! Really has a heart for caregiving and teaching. She has some fun ideas for activities and learning, it is going to be so fun to hear all the stories.

The first lunch, meatballs with a yummy sauce. The boys are pretty much eating everything it seems. And boy did they love these meatballs. And boy oh boy were they messy!!! Lol…… gotta get a picture of this. Denise fed these a couple days earlier and she had her hands full getting them all cleaned up….and herself too. Lol… here’s Jaxon’s favorite face…..reminds me of a pirate face, but with meatball sauce….priceless.

You have to watch Hayden, if he likes it the mouth will be overflowing…..yeah Gramma I only have five bites…see…….

Ethan thinks they are just finger=likin good!! Mealtime is one of there favorite times and for me too. They are terrific eaters! They are growing like weeds so I can totally understand the appetite.

Friday night I got to be the babysitter during the adult Halloween party. Pebbles and Bam Bam were decked out from head to toe. OMG when they came downstairs I about choked…….I couldn’t stop laughing, they just have so much fun!!!

Everyday is fun fun fun!! The dinning room is the romper room with many fun toys……Ethan loves to play peek-a-boo and read books. He is going to be my little genius!! Love those little toes!

Do you think boys know what “NO” means at 15 months old. I think so!! Jaxon likes to take his little glasses off and boy oh boy I think he knows exactly what he is doing, and….that he really shouldn’t. You tell me!!

OK Gramma I was just testing, aren’t I just the cutest!!

Do you think they like to pose……smile……be still my heart! My photogenic triplets love to pose.

See!!!!

Now why is Hayden so happy……..because this is the couch and he loves to throw all the pillows off and go up and down, roll off and you catch him. Just his most favorite play area…..the couch!!! Here the squeal! He loves his teeth too, that tongue is always rubbing on it.

We went out to lunch before the Pumpkin Farm trip……yes to Grammas' favorite place, Panera’s. This is actually their first trip to a restaurant. We had a blast and they each ate a whole grilled cheese sandwich!!

Ethan loved people watching, he loves people. We were sitting right by the entry and he got to see everyone and then followed them to the counter!!! Getting to know the personality of the boys is one of my favorite things about spending time with them.

Jaxon kept me entertained even when I had my favorite Panera meal.

Hayden is the one who loves animals, this friendly little goat really wanted us to feed him but it gave Hayden enough time to warm up to him.

We tried to get pictures in the pumpkin patch but this is the only one that turned out with their pumpkins, and trying to get them to pose was out of the question.

They are drinking out of the little cups and trying to get a picture with all three bottoms up…….well this is the best I got. Hayden looks like his juice is spiked…lol!!!

OK thanks for indulging me if you are reading along, all you Grammy’s know how special your grandkids are to you so I know you forgive my indulgence.

I did get out of the house a couple times. I visited Country Sampler and took a drive to Lincoln to meet a fellow blogger Kindra. I will share about this on my next post along with what I am sewing on.

I need to catch up for sure….but for now I am off to have lunch with my girlfriend Linda. We just shared a fat quarter bundle of Rouenerries. I have so many patterns I could use it on, I will have to choose! There is a linen piece that I fell in love with so I am doing a make over that I will share too. It is the perfect red, perfect print and I found the perfect place!!!

Have you seen Karen’s new additions to Farmhouse Woolens, I love her taste and can not resist having just a little each time she adds something new!!!

This is a wonderful time of year to focus on Thankfulness. For us, it is the end of our busy business season. We are thankful for God’s blessing this work season. The economy is very slow and we are so thankful for everything we have received.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and we are going to be home this year. First time in over 14 years. So we are looking forward to spending time at a community kitchen and having our son at home for dinner. It is an opportunity to really look outside ourselves and give to others.

God Bless,

Carrie

Happy Halloween Giveaway!

2009-10-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Brenda, of Pumpkin Patch Primitives Quilt Shoppe, is having a spooktacular giveaway, click here to enter. You can wind a bundle of 27 fat quarters of Whimsicals line, Pumpkin and Spice. Way cool, so generous.

I am getting excited to leave on Wednesday for Omaha, the boys now have a Nanny at home instead of going to daycare. They started daycare at the end of July to insure their spot with a certain caregiver. School starts mid August in Omaha. Well since they started they have not had one week without a sick child. They were to the point where my son was needing to take family leave time, they started inquiring and found a Nanny! They had looked into this first and it didn't work out. They are so happy, and I am very relieved for them. Now the boys stay at home and their Nanny comes to their home.

This means the boys will not be a daycare when I am there visiting. :)) I am very thankful for their new arrangement. I am praying that this flu season passes them by.

Its Monday and I have lots to do before leaving, this weekend I prepped all my wool BOM and have lots to keep myself busy during my flights and layovers. There is a funny clip going around on facebook from Conan nights show. So like the saying goes " I will be flying in my seat in the sky" it is amazing traveling by air in just a few hours to your destination.

Fall Blessings, Carrie

Chicken Pot Pie in a Squash Bowl

2009-10-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

My sister gave me an idea with the squash we bought last weekend. I love Chicken Pot Pies and Squash, especially Delicata Squash, I think these round shape are a variety of Delicata.

I checked out my Farmhouse Cookbook and googled Chicken Pot Pie and came up with a recipe.

First I cut the bottom off the squash, just a little bit. Cleaned out the seeds and “stuff”, put them in a baking dish with 1/2 cup water in the dish, added a small slice of butter to each squash and covered with foil. Baked 1 hour on 325 degrees, I may up that to 350 degrees but they were pretty tender.

Meanwhile: I prepared the filling…….

2 chicken breasts , cubed

garlic cloves

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1/4 sweet onion, diced

1 cup frozen peas, petite green beans, cut one inch

14 ounce can of chicken broth

1/2 cup milk

3 tablespoons flour

2 premade pie crusts

Put 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in skillet, heat, add cubed chicken and garlic, sauté until almost cooked through, add carrots first cook 5-8 minutes then add celery and onion. Cook till onion are transparent add peas and green beans cook a couple minutes then sprinkle flour over the top and mix into veges. Don’t let it burn….lol ….just start to brown add 1/3 chicken broth mix in then slowly add more until all is used, then slowly add milk. This how I make gravy too. You will notice as you add the liquid it will work in and get thick , keep working so it doesn’t get lumpy, you want the mixture to be a bit soupy. It will get thicker in the squash bowl. So add more broth or milk as you want.

I filled the squash and a bit more, then used premade pie crusts. Cut out shape, I couldn’t find my leaf shapes but that is what I will use next time. I wasn’t sure how the steam would rise so I arranged them differently, they both held together equally. I brushed the tops with egg whites before baking too. Why? Because grandma did…..it makes them crispy, shiny…and I loved Grandma soo I do too! Oops forgot to say bake 30 minutes here!!

And here they are!! I was pretty excited and hungry, mine was way more than I could eat but I gave it a good shot. My first homemade Chicken Pot Pie! :))

I had some crimini mushrooms so I sautéed them in butter, and some Blue Moon beer I was drinking while I cooked. No wine in the house!! That's why I used beer….I use whatever, it is a wheat beer, have you tried it. I put the sauted mushrooms on the plate with the pie. I’m not PW and my little silver proves it…lol…

Yes, lots of filling left over, I filled 3 ramekins, no bottom crust used. Covered them and cooked them for dinner the next night. They were so good too and the filling did not stick to my pottery. I love my Longaberger Pottery for that very reason. Emile Henry is just as wonderful and Mary of Quilt Hollow loves her blue Polish Pottery for this same reason.

Well this was fun, now I need to make that darn apple cake, I have the apples so this weekend I will get to it.. You know I really don’t need the calories but hey its Fall and maybe it will warm up to the 60’s this weekend and feel like Fall too!!! Its been way to cold, except for my night sweats, cold nights feel good!! My DH says he is freezing, he has a down comforter, wool blanket, quilt with wool batting and I use the flannel sheet with one leg out!! How cold can he be, yep his toes are still cold, now I am worrying about his circulation!!

I’m going to go check out some more recipes, have a wonderful weekend.

Fall Blessings,

Carrie

JLW Quilts Fall Outing

2009-10-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

I haven’t shared my JLW meet up last month. After taking the summer off we got together. Many of the members got their Holiday Inn quilts put together, they were so fun to see, even if there not completed its fun to see them.

We all made 4 inch baskets for Gail our leader, she was so surprised with them, and very touched I think.

It was a fun time together, I am glad I joined a local group. I had been participating in one by mail, and I will say Carriage Country Quilts is fabulous, they have many fabrics and have wonderful kits for their projects.

But like I said I am very pleased attending a local group, meeting together with women, making new friends and old friends too!! For me the personal touch makes all the difference.

Here is my quilt, unfinished but I am enjoying the process of Holiday Inn. The medallion style is a fun one. I have admired Round Robins and it also reminds me of them.

Last weekend I spent time with my family in Cottage Grove. My father passed away 2 years ago and we met on Friday, which would have been his 82 birthday. We interned his ashes next to his parents. It was very bittersweet, lets say for me its a work in progress living without a parent. It was a beautiful day and the view of the surrounding valley with the turning colors was peaceful. We spent the afternoon at my mothers visiting with family that gathered. Then we all started working on the handrails of her new deck that she built last year. Many hands make light work it really took shape and got some weather treatment too.

Saturday we went up to Junction City to a century farm, Thistledown Farm, a wonderful family owned and operated farm. I got a box of apples, squash, huge sweet onions, filberts and small cute pumpkins. We got some sweet corn for dinner that was delicious.

Mom took a picture of this cute bench, the painting has alot of detail. It was a cute bench, hmm, hint hint!!

We headed in to Junction City to visit Buttermilk Junction, I did not get pictures there, naughty me, the store has recently moved into a space with a quilt shop, it was a nice arrangement. It is a prim shop with many wonderful items to decorate your home. I did get a couple things, a batter operated candle and stand, that I put on my mantel with my pumpkins.

Next we went to 5th Street Market in Eugene, they had a very cool truck their so I snapped a shot of my sister and mom.

Then we headed to Mindy’s, where you have to hide your pocketbook from yourself. Mindy has everything you would want and more for needlework, she hand paints her own needlepoint designs too. She has many different types of embroidery thread, all beautifully displayed.

This display of thread is my favorite. It is antique from a Post Office in Portland.

She carries Blackbird Designs patterns, I purchased their pattern May Flowers, Three Stockings for May and Maggie’s Needlecase by Maggie Bonanomi, you know I love her!!! Embroidery threads for the patterns from Weeks Dye Works, The Gentle Art and some 30 ct. linen. They had Crescent Colours coming in this week so I will get those threads when they arrive. And one piece of textured green wool.

I’m sure you read Alma’s blog its wonderful to get all the peeks of their artwork. I always like their little stockings, so now I can stitch up a pretty cross-stitch!

I made up a new concoction for dinner, my sister gave me the idea, I will share it soon.

Fall blessings,

Carrie

Blogger’s Quilt Festival

2009-10-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

My quilt is one I finished three year’s ago, I actually made the quilt in the early 90’s. I started piecing it before my DH gave me my 1230 Bernina, which I love and still use today! So when I got my new machine, of course, I started sewing with it. Seam allowances changed and the block sizes changed, what a challenge. I really wanted it bigger and I worked with the blocks to make as many work and be happy together and decided a finished quilt was better than an unfinished top!!!

I love the background fabric and they antique look of the quilt.

I entered it at the Buggy Barn Quilt Show in 2006, I love seeing it pictured with all the quilts in this show. I edited the picture so only my quilt is shown.

Now I must catch up on the show, talk with you soon.

Blessings, Carrie

Primitive Autumn Prize

2009-10-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

I was very fortunate to win this prize from Robin of Bird in Hand Primitives. I have it in on my grandmother’s piano in the heart of my home and enjoy having a special addition to my Fall decorations. The little stocking is just to cute too, I keep wanting to make some for my grandkids and fill them with harvest goodies. The little tarts smell so good, they made the whole package smell like heaven. Thank you Robin for sharing your talents, I love having your special handmades in my home.

I didn’t finish my Schnibbles last month, see, I need to get the last little border on and I am waiting for the Blessing line to come to my lqs so I can choose the border. I am hoping to get the new project done this month, man I have a ton of projects going…….yeah, I know you are all laughing, gee like I am the only one!! But finishing was a goal I set this year…..naive me, isn’t that what New Year is all about. My #1 problem is lqs do not have the patterns and I will mail order it, its a cute snowball design.

My girlfriend Sandy called last week to see if I could get away a couple days with her. After getting my billings out, we headed over the mountains and through the woods to the valley. Such a pretty drive this time of year, we talked to much for pictures. :)) She is looking at new horse trailers with living quarters for there trip to Nationals. That is GWPCA, wirehair pointers, to attend the field trials. They are being held in Illinois this year.

Joe and I did the trek two years ago to Illinois, it was fabulous. Now I have about 20 new Quilt Shops and 10 Prim Shops and 100 bloggers along the way. I think my dear DH would go crazy if we did the trip and I wanted to add my wish list of stops along the way. But I was talking about my trip with Sandy.

So we started in Lebanon spent abit of time looking over one possible unit. Then off we went with directions to another dealer near Salem, well it wasn’t what we were looking for and we found a nice Farm with lots of produce so we stopped to have a look.

They had the most interesting pumpkins, bumpy skinned ones that were very cool…..we posed for a picture. Don’t you love the handle on the one between our heads.

This white one was so unique, should have bought it I think.

These flowers would have come home if I was at home.

Inside their were some fun things so I took a few pictures. Need a new apron, they are so popular now. Love these ones.

I always look at these dishes but have never bought any, I just love dishes and I think these pottery pieces would bake food perfectly.

Well it was fun to get away and spend someone else's money…….lol…, I am not sure if we got the job done but if we did Sandy is going to be traveling in style to Illinois. Joe and I are not going this year, darn, it is such a fun road trip, we never even turned the radio on, we drove 18 hours a day and made it in 3 days. Yes, that was one big migraine I had the first day there!!!

Ok its Autumn right? Well we had snow this weekend, No I did not take any pictures, it was to d…. cold, oh excuse me, I mean I am just accepting the fact that summer is over OK!?!!!

Well Anne did so go here to see some great pictures her sweetie took. Well timing is everything and look what was in the mailbox Sunday. It came so late Saturday we didn’t pick up till Sunday and boy did I get excited with all the Christmas decorations in Country Sampler. How did they know it was going to snow 4 inches on October 4, 2009.

Now Cabela’s isn’t really my favorite but is that not a cute picture.

I hope this finds you well and enjoying Fall and all its beauty, God Bless You and your family. I am still going to share my favorite Apple Cake recipe and I think Friday is the day.

Fall Blessings,

Carrie

Quilting the Wedding Quilt

2009-09-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

I am pleased with how the wedding quilt came together, the pattern is really a simple one.

I had to purchase the backing fabric, none of my pieces were big enough and there wasn’t a chance to find more in stock.

So I am going to do the quilting myself. The border and hearts will be the easy part. The background I will do an all over pattern kind of like a loopy lasso. I have a way of working myself into corners and getting lost with all the concentrating. I really appreciate the talent of long arm quilters, there work makes it look so easy.

If you have any suggestions please do comment, I am certainly open here.

The blackbirds were feasting on one of my sunflowers the other day. I really got tickled over there positions to get the seeds. Upside down and everything.

I was so lucky to win a wonderful prim giveaway. I will post my pictures tomorrow. Friday I am going to participate in the recipe sharing. My favorite apple cake, its so delicious.

Its officially Fall, but it was 96 degrees today. I am thankful the temperature cools off in the evening. We have a couple fires here in Oregon and these temperatures are not helping get them under control. The winds brought the smoke in tonight and it made it dark even earlier.

Fall Blessings,

Carrie

Sweet Treasures and Textures of the Garden

2009-09-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

I found a cute pattern while shopping in a local shop. The shop sample was in soft peachy, Fig Tree fabrics and I loved the texture from the small, close quilting. I bought the pattern not really knowing when I might make it up.

I have been thinking about an upcoming wedding and what to do for the gift. While going through my fabrics for the IBOL package I came across some flannels and got inspired to sew them up using this pattern for their gift.

They both love the outdoors, hunt, ranch. I really liked seeing the wildlife fabrics on hearts…..Joe helped me pick the center pieces, it was way to busy so we chose two fabrics for the center squares alternating the colors.

Greens will go around the outer perimeter to make it look similar to the pictured quilt. Its been fun making this quilt, the hearts are raw edges and it is sewing up fast. I will do some of the quilting then take it to a local quilter to do the background for me.

Here are a couple recent purchases, Karen of Farmhouse Woolens had a sale and I got these little bowls. Bunnyhill Anne had these spools on her website and I fell in love with them.

Put a couple on a tray with some of my ribbons, love them. The chickens were a gift from my sister a few years ago. The are blown glass, I just love them, they have some pretty fancy feathers in there hats.

The garden is coming along, slow but it had to start over on June 15th after a freeze. The zinnia’s are blooming. Love them. We have a few green tomatoes, the deer are coming in and eating them, now that’s a first, even found one they stepped on today. Buggars!!

The pumpkins are running over the garden and have very little pumpkins, so I started cutting the plants back to hopefully get the fruit growing. After I took the pictures I went back out and carved three little names on pumpkins……….:)) wish they were coming to pick them with me.

I took these pictures on macro setting on my little pocket camera, I was having fun finding circles in the garden and little star shapes. And big star shapes!

The Schnibble pattern was revealed today and I spent way to long calling quilt shops and searching on line for the pattern. So I finally found it and didn’t like the shipping amount so I ordered three patterns to justify the shipping…..LOL….. I don’t know why that feels better, I am gambling on those patterns may be used this year and I will have them on hand.

Can you believe it is September 1st……I can’t yikes where has this year gone……I love Fall, I love Fall……I am going to keep saying that and maybe time will slow down a bit.

Late Summer blessing dear friends,

Carrie

Iraqi Bundle of Love, Enjoying Summer

2009-08-27T11:25:00.001-07:00

I’ve seen a few bloggers preparing packages for IBOL, I have been cleaning up the sewing room and I knew I could definitely fill a box myself. What an inspiration to be involved in this too!!! http://ibol.wordpress.com/building-a-bundle/ , here is the website to go get information. Just send them an email and they will get you the address.

Here is a picture of my bundle, I added some ribbon and embroidery thread after I took the picture. Wrapped it in one of the larger pieces of fabric and tied it with a ribbon.

The general information is here: http://ibol.wordpress.com/what-to-send/

Now its off to the post office plenty of time to reach the destination. The latest date to mail is September 7th, this will give the package enough time to reach Iraq before there unit comes out of Iraq.

Sunday we went to visit a friend Linda, who raises goats. The purpose besides visiting a our good friend was to purchase some of her cheese. It is so delicious, after weaning the kids she makes goat cheese from there milk. Linda got a real chuckle about me asking if I could take pictures for my blog. I think she thought I was kidding……… oh couldn’t resist the pun……

Friendly little guys………

We arrived as they were enjoying there late morning feeding. The closest goat there is the buck, he has the biggest thickest neck. Kind of does what he wants, which is eat at the moment.

And this is what I will look like if I keep eating the Dill and Garlic flavored cheese. It very good, and fresh!!

After taking our purchase home we had a class on preserving fruit and vegetables at Allysons Kitchen.

Our instructor was a very knowledgeable “Master Food Preserver, Bonnie Koenig. Her website , Intellifare.com has some excellent links on food preservation.

We canned Peach Pie Filling, Hot Salsa with Tomatoes and Pepper and Dilly Bean and Pickles.

We are going to start doing some canning, after a few years of not doing any, we are enjoyed getting some updated tips.

One very important one I will share is NOT to use your Grammy’s recipes. Vinegar was much stronger years ago and so the quantities are not correct. You can get very inexpensive books, Ball is a good one with the correct recipes.

We each got to pick two items, one of our choices was a bag a Clear-Jel, which is a cornstarch product that stands up to the high heat process of canning. If you use regular cornstarch it will separate and be watery………that wouldn’t be to nice. This product is used in the pie filling as a thickener.

The Dilly Beans take two months to achieve their flavor, it will be hard to crack open these pretty jars and use them up.

Bonnie is going to teach a class in October on canning smoke salmon. We are planning to take the class in Redmond at the extension service. Canning meats is the main thing we want to do this year.

We have been doing some planning for enlarging our vegetable garden next year. Bonnie has a very productive garden so we are encouraged that we can have some success too. We certainly have the space!

I have started sewing up some 4 1/2 inch basket blocks for a JLW exchange. I will make 25 of them, 5 sets of 5 blocks. They go together pretty quickly , I made a couple up to get familiar with the pattern.

It’s the last weekend in August, can it be true, I love summer, we wait so long for it to arrive, then poof. It’s all good because fall is really beautiful in Central Oregon. Well not like New England, but almost!!

Summer blessings,

Carrie

Jaxon’s New Glasses, a Giveaway

2009-08-16T08:28:00.001-07:00

Krista shared a picture this weekend of Jaxon and his new glasses. Our little pumpkin is far-sighted with astigmatism. Just like alot of his family.

Wow, I was so amazed that they could detect this in an eye exam without him reading the chart . I just didn’t know, did you?

I think he is so cute in his glasses, ;)) he wears his little helmet for a few more days. He will get to pass it along after his doctor appointment at the end of the month. Preemies heads can get flat on the back so they have them wear these little helmets. It has kind of been his signature look for some time. Now it will be the glasses!!

Joe says he looks just like his mom with his new glasses, I thought he reminded me of myself, I got glasses in the first grade, on the way home I remember saying, “ Oh, I can see all the individual leaves on the trees!”

Jaxon loves to watch Sesame Street, lol…….can you believe it. They have a couple episodes taped for the boys to watch. He is the one who really is attracted to the show!!! That is what he was doing when I saw him for the first time last month. I just sat right down and watched it with him, he gave me the cutest smile!!!

Farmhouse Countrystyle is having a Harvest giveaway, give her a visit if you would like to win her little sign.

We had a fun time at clients party yesterday, they have a landscaping business and live on a small farm. They grow some trees and have some greenhouses. But they also have a 9 hole golf course, which goes around their Aspen Orchard. It is a par 18 course and there were 13 foursomes that competed. It was such a fun family time. Lots of kids playing in the water, sandbox and trampoline. And the cutest little puppy!!! I am glad I went, I really wanted to sew all day, but it was good to get out and meet some new people and old friends.

I didn’t get to the local guilds quilt show :(, you just can’t do it all sometimes. So you can go here for some show and tell. Anne went and I am going to go over and enjoy her pictures. Love her new quilt, too!

OK today I am going to sew all day, lol…….we’ll just see, but that's the plan.

Summer blessings,

Carrie

Watch Ya Workin On ~ A Winner

2009-08-14T10:10:00.001-07:00

Well in my case it seems to be “What am I not workin on…” ya know what I mean?

Everything at once, and nothing is getting done. If I would sew a binding on a quilt then it would be done. I could say I finished something. Maybe that will get done this afternoon, I should make a list, that’s one tip that works for this girl.

First I will show you the newest BOM I started, through Farmhouse Woolens. Vintage Halloween, by Buttermilk Basin. Karen’s selections for the wools are wonderful. I received the 2nd block this week, this is going to make up into such a special holiday quilt. I won’t want to take it down.

I sewed on this block while we were on the plane and on our delayed layover in Denver. I am so glad they didn’t cancel our flight, we waited 7 hours for a new crew!! Weather related so no free tickets would have been given.

Then while I was in Omaha, Krista and I snuck a visit to Country Sampler, it was pretty close to where they live so I look forward to visiting them again. I have to say this is the perfect shop. They have a wonderful selection of gifts as well as quilting goods. I could have stuffed my suitcase with lots of stuff. But I was a good girl…….. I bought 3 kits from Primitive Gatherings. Krista chose, Love Ya Man, it will be her Christmas present. Three snowman, just like you know who!!!

They had a wool kit to make the Pumpkin Row Pillow out of Autumn Gatherings book. Perfect kit because I want to put it on the top of a quilt, not make a pillow. Either way would be awesome. And Old Saint Nick , an 18” table topper. They fit nicely in my suitcase and didn’t add to much weight!!

Next is my progress on A Tisket, A Taskit BOM, I have created myself a dilemma. I found my antiqued muslin and love the way it looked so I am changing backgrounds. The printed muslin has really been bothering me, to white. So I am thinking I can dye the backgrounds. Tea, Coffee or Rit tan dye, this is the question? I will experiment, but I am not sure how the wool will be effected. I am wondering if I can sponge it on the fabric instead of immersing the whole block. I really don’t want the block to shrink up since I have cut them to the finished size.

Some blocks need there embroidery finished, and August is looking a little bare isn’t it. I am auditioning wool for those cute cupcakes!! Anne had given us the cutest darn gift to make!!! Each month feels like Christmas on the 5th!! I get tickled over the comments here, she always gets hers done so quick!!

Any suggestions on my dying these cute little blocks, I would love all you have!!

This is the center of my JLW, Holiday Inn quilt. Boy I have really slacked off on this project. I was going to have it ready to appliqué on our trip but it wasn’t happening so I am doing the appliqué in the evening and sewing some flying geese up during the day. I am really preferring hand work over my machine. But this quilt isn’t going to be all hand work, at least if it is going to be finished by Christmas. I want it on the wall this Christmas. If I don’t have a goal, well things just go on forever…….

I purchased a new design wall, not a fancy one but it is a bit wider and longer. Now I can see progress on some of my projects and I really love that. I am a visual person, if its put away, it doesn’t get worked on. Without a big enough wall this really makes for a big mess in the sewing room I would like to have two walls, maybe I could move that desk out of my sewing room…….lol……just kidding dear!! So you can see I have two untouched blocks to my Wool Garden BOM. I love that one, I know I say that about all of them, no ….I said TT was cute so I can use “Love” here.

And I have the next wool kit for Vintage Halloween, this “charming pumpkin man” is going to have a friend so he doesn’t stand alone on this scary white cloth. I wish it was gray, maybe I could dye it too. Probably not, I better keep moving if I am going to finish anything.

OK there you have my progress confession!!! Now…..

Last month I was a winner at Mary’s Cottage Quilts, and I received a pattern to make her Figgy Pudding quilt. It’s so fun to win!!! This is a versatile pattern, she has a picture of a large quilt on her website, this pattern gets even better in a larger quilt.

Thank you Mary for sharing your talent and I hope your vacation is fabulous!!

Oh! The picture of Figgy Pudding is Mary’s, I borrowed it to only show the gift!!! No, its not part of my progress report and I take no credit for the very cute quilt. :))

Summer blessings to all of you,

Carrie

p.s. “Blessings”, new fabric line by Brannock and Patek, its wonderful!!

Memoirs of Omaha

2009-08-11T12:17:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time!!!!! Such happy little boys, even with their colds they shared with me!

We really had the best of luck weather-wise, the temperature was in the mid 70’s until our last day. Wow, we don’t have the high humidity that is in the Midwest so we were very pleased.

I will start off this sharing time with the invitation and a bouquet of flowers from a friend. Grown in their garden and so nicely arranged!! The birthday theme is E~I~E~I~O with some fun fun here and some fun fun there!! LOL……

Birthday Banner too!

We started off the party with FOOD, gee what else!! Krista made delicious pulled pork, she had a recipe for a colorful salad I made, Joe bought some fresh corn from a local farm, potato salad. It was so delicious! And colorful….

Jaxon with Grammy Teresa!!

Jaxon not to happy with everyone in his space………it is so fun to learn about the boys personality. Jaxon has a definite personal bubble!!!

Krista kept a monthly calendar on the boys, posting all the details of their development and experiences. This last week she was going to transfer all the info into their baby books. Amazing gal……we were all impressed and really enjoyed reading the calendars.

The birthday cakes were made by a neighbor friend, they were just the cutest.

No shortage of help from aunties, grampa’s, mommies when it came time to eat the cake. It was pretty sweet and they haven’t had cake before!! Very interesting.

We had so much fun with the boys, feeding time was so fun. They all eat at once and love it. Our grandson Tylor came with us and had fun taking pictures of the boys. He could make them all belly laugh, he had the best time too.

Joe loved getting to know the boys. They all had a little issue with his moustache, a new experience for them. It was so funny to see them get brave enough to touch it and them wrinkle up their noses. Let alone those kisses!!

We made a trip to a park, it was a bit warm our last day, we are all aglow! They love the swings, went down the slides rode the bouncing frog. Got some group pictures, I just love the picture with all four of our grandsons. We were in heaven.

The guys pushed the strollers home, what memories, we will treasure them in our hearts…….till we meet again!!

Krista and I made it to a wonderful quilt shop, Country Sampler. I got some goodies to make up for Christmas, I will share them in my next post.

I haven’t shared my BOM for some time so my next post should be about that for sure. Yes I actually do some quilty things. I have a new wool BOM that I sewed on the plane trip. I love it!!

Hugs,

Carrie

WE ARE ONE! Happy Birthday Boys!

2009-07-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Indulge me just a moment to share the last year with my boys. They have grown in so many ways. We are looking forward to this trip, my desk is a mess of invoices and statements are printing, and here I sit putting a blogging post up. LOL........

The guys were so small at two weeks old, they just fit in my lap. It is difficult holding three when they don't hang on!!

January they had grown so much, they filled my lap up!!! When I get home I will show you the update, I wonder if you will see my face. I'm sure you just can't wait!!When I saw this picture, I told Joe I can not wait to sit down on the floor with these guys and play!! I want to be part of the fun they are having, don't they have some cool toys.
Ethan just melts my heart, he looks so grown up in this picture. He is doing so good, I love his smile. But then I love all their smiles.
Love babies in diapers, keeping cool on the deck.
Helpin out with the dishes!!! I'm just sure they are.
This picture cracks me up, looks like a diaper add.........kind of like fruit of the loom!

OKay, back to work so I can catch my plane tomorrow!!! Gotta get things crossed off my list.

Omaha blessing to all of you!

Carrie

Pumpkin Patch Giveaway!! Guess who is going to be 1?

2009-07-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Go take a peak at Pumpkin Patch Primitives and leave her a comment, she is giving away a kit for this quilt. Tell her you heard it from me and guess what, I get another entry. LOL..... always a motive!!!

Did you guess who is going to be ONE on Tuesday!!! O boy, O boy! Hayden, Ethan and Jaxon.

And if you look closely you can see there little teeth.

Grampa Lee celebrated his birthday with the boys!!! They had a blast and they even helped unwrap the presents. I think they are going to be waist deep in wrapping paper for their party.

We fly on Wednesday to go visit. Do you think we are excited. I just can not wait to sit down and play with these guys.

My suitcase is going to be full of fun stuff, so while I am in Omaha I plan on visiting a quilt shop or two and will have room for a couple things if I find something. Yeah, like a quilter can't find anything, maybe a prim shop too.

If you love wool then you want to go here and just drool over these shops. I'd say this is prim and wool capital of the USA.

Prim Blessings,

Carrie

Crater Lake National Park

2009-07-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

My DH really planned a wonderful romantic trip for our anniversary. We took a drive Friday afternoon south to Crater Lake National Park. The lodge was renovated in 90's, has a fabulous dining room, veranda with rocking chairs and serves drinks, starters and dessert. A 33 mile drive around the rim of the lake with more than 30 viewpoints of the parks volcanic scenery, which we did Saturday morning. Mount Mazama, the volcano that collapsed to form Crater Lake. If you gathered up the ash from Mount Mazama's catastrophic eruption and spread it evenly across the state of Oregon, it would form a layer 8 inches thick.
First off we had a wonderful drive in a friends convertible for the two hour drive to the park.
The temperature about 90 degrees made for perfect conditions.
The park ranger posed for a picture, isn't she cute and a good sport.

We noticed smoke on the turn-off from the highway, a fire had started recently and another one started the night before. Lightening two weeks earlier most likely the cause. The HotShot crews from Redmond, Redding and Klamath were called in to fight the new blaze.

There is still a bit of snow, which I guess is common for this time of year, elevation around 7000 ft.

The lodge, renovated and really inviting.
This is a view of the front, the lake is directly behind the lodge and our room was on the back side with views of the lake. :))
The view out our window that evening. The windows are new but still the same original size and style. There were historical pictures in the room instead of art. I loved the history they kept in the restoration. Below our window was the veranda with the rocking chairs, reproductions of the original chairs set out for relaxing and enjoying the lake views.

The window mouldings are made from trees, very unique.

The tree pillars go from one end of the lodge to the other, this fireplace is in the lobby.

Stairway leading to the 2nd floor rooms. Walls had the bark wood just like the window moulding.

No pictures of dinner, but it was wonderful. I had pork loin with blueberry sauce, saffron orzo , steamed broccoli and asparagus vegetables. Joe had the venison and was in heaven.

After dinner we started a walk with this point as our destination. We were told this was the place to be at sunset.Joe took my picture and was trying to send it to our friends. At this point we realized a major mistake on our part. The mosquitoes were numerous and very hungry, we did not bring bug spray. So no stopping or you were bait for sure. Even with a fast walk we were swatting away. Joe has shorts on, I had 3/4 length pants that helped a lot. Remember all that snow, mosquito breeding grounds.
More than half way there we saw more snow and were really losing the battle with the bugs.
So at this point we gave up and took flight down the hill to the lodge. LOL......
We took a seat on the veranda and ordered dessert, Marionberry, blueberry and blackberry cobbler with Huckleberry ice cream. Yummo....!!!! So much for a low sugar diet, but it was so good.

Next morning we were greeted with sunrise out our window. 5:45 brought first light and before the sun came over the east rim we had alot of color thanks to the smoke.

Just a few minutes later the sun was breaking over the rim.

After breakfast I took a couple pictures of the lake, this out the bedroom window.

This is the view out the bathroom window, of Wizard Island.

We started off on our 33 mile drive around the rim. Vidae Falls, really had alot of water from all the snow melt.

You need a wide angle lens to get the full effect of Crater lake. My little silver didn't do to bad.

A little ways up the road was a small water fall, I am sure this one drys up by late August. They get there first snow in September and the annual snowfall is 44 feet. Amazing.

We were pleased to experience the wild flowers in full bloom. They are so beautiful, it isn't like some lush gardens but the color they add to the landscape was wonderful to see.

This is a view from Phantom Ship Overlook. Near the southeastern shore is Crate Lake's "other island". It resembles a small pirate ship, the island is as tall as a 16-story building. The oldest exposed rock within the Caldera.

This island is older than Wizard Island.

This tree has very unique cones. The evergreens in the park were wonderful.

Pumice Castle Overlook, we had a little visitor. The click of you tongue and up it would come. When I was very young 2-3 years old we lived in Klamath Falls, we came here with my grandparents and I remember the rock walls and chipmunks. Joe calls them Timber Tigers, they are so cute.

Southern views along the drive show the vast park and views off toward Klamath Lake.

Cloudcap Overlook, the blue of the lake is really awesome. One viewpoint told about the water color. When you look into water the clarity and depth of the water absorbs the colors, blue is the last color to be absorbed. That it what makes Crater Lake so blue. I took so many pictures of the blue, The lakes depth is 1,943 feet and 4.5 to 6 miles wide. Last time the lake froze over was 1949.

Wildflowers are all over, along the road, parking areas even in the cracks of the pavement.

Isn't the lake just amazing. And big, I really wish I had that wide angle lens.

Cleetwood Cove, this is where you would walk 700 feet down to the water to catch a boat ride. We didn't do it this time, Joe just had knee surgery and can't take the impact walking (sliding down) and I would die hiking back up. Lucky me Joe had knee surgery. LOL...... I'll just relax under this cool Juniper and watch.

Well like all good things, it comes to an end. But not before we see all the hard working firefighters coming in after a long nights work.

This is one park we will return to often. It is amazing and we didn't see it all. The Pinnacles is one place we must experience. Formed during the same eruption that gave birth to the lake, they are colorful volcanic spires. It would have been a mile hike in and out and again Joe's knee.....so that gives us something to look forward to, besides the 700 foot hike down to the water. Hmmm.......better get to riding my bike more I think.

For more information check out the website www.nps.gov/crla.

All my facts came from the Visitor Guide we received upon entering the park.

Summer Blessings,

Carrie

More Sister's Outdoor Quilt Show

2009-07-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some more quilts from the show. First some small quilts, I love the bright colors of these artful quilts.

This quilt was so wonderful viewed from the opposite side of the street, it looks so real.

I loved this log cabin quilt on the log building......

We met this little guy at lunch, he was a rescue dog, not to pampered is he or she. They were off to view more quilts and he fit perfect in his little bag.
I think I fell in love with this raspberry color this year, it seemed a recurrent theme of color through the show.

The most beautiful bloomin nine patch I think I have seen.

This yellow just sings on this quilt.

I think I may have to make a Kaffe quilt, color and flowers definitely go together.

I love the way this picture shows the quilt behind the tree with the lavender below.

Pigs appliqued around this quilt was so cute.

Juniper Berries group always have some wonderful quilts, here are a few.

They did a row quilt, round robin, they were all so wonderful. I love the colors on this one.

Linda and Suzie thought they found us Twisted Sisters a new rig, well the $10 ticket was for a toy truck, $100 for the truck raffle. LOL.......next time!!
And quilts are not the only artwork shown, I can watch wool be spun for a very long time. It mesmerizes me. If we had more hours in the day I would love to spin wool.
This little building was on display, it has a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Costs more than the first house I purchased but how cute for a guest cottage.
Well that is my posting for the quilt show. It was once again a wonderful show.

I will be back and share about our little trip, I will just say Joe did very well!!

Summer Blessing,

Carrie

Oh My, I Am Way Behind!!

2009-07-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Have you seen all about the Sister's Outdoor Quilt Show well I am way behind in my blogging and I am sorry this is a long picture post.

I know this will be full of pictures so maybe that is a good thing since I blabber and segway(sp) most of the time anyway.

Here we go again, Linda and Suzie with my mom. Mom drove over to Sister's saturday morning and met us at our favorite coffee shop. Sister's Coffee, great way to start off. It has been 23 years since mom came to the quilt show with me. It made the day very special for me!! :))

We actually went inside The Stitchin Post this year and got our quilt show charm's and looked around at a beautiful store, which usually is so packed you can not even move. It was quite full when we did leave.

This cat quilt was mom's favorite inside The Stitchin Post, looks like her little Ebony kittie.

In front of the quilt shop were these cars with "car quilts" on them. Very cool, but my picture is not very good.

You can go here for a better picture of these cars. Besides quilts the flowers are always in full bloom during quilt show and I love Jean's garden just outside her shop.
Behind the shop were some very special and so beautiful quilts. Made by Joanne Meyers, a hand quilter, and I think a couple were Barbara Copelands. Joanne is a mentor of all of us Central Oregon quilters, I met her 23 years ago when she was the featured quilter. She had some small quilts for sale and I bought myself a treasure. A little nine-patch amish style quilt! Love it!

Here we are posing in front of the Auction quilt, we didn't have the lucky ticket this year, we will try again next year. Every year East of the Cascade Quilters make a quilt to raise money for the show expenses. It is always a fabulous quilt.

Just around the corner hung this beautiful Feathered Star, and where you find precision piecing, artful quilting you will find Barbara Copeland.

We had a very fun visit with Barbara, we all have known Barbara for more years than we want to say, but I will tell you from the time she started quilting she made show winners. Our local shop in Eugene, where we worked at the time had a competition and she made the winning quilt.

All the quilts she displayed were Ribbon quilts from National Shows. Barbara was the featured machine quilter, made on her Bernina.

Barbara uses wool batting now for her effective trapunto look. She used to do the traditional method but is very pleased with wool. It is wonderful for hand quilting too, and I love the all season feel of the batt. I use it now to, just wish my quilts look like Barbara's...... I told her that once and she said I could quilt like her too.......I just love her......she is full of encouragement.

Isn't this the most beautiful quilting.......

This darker quilt was so stunning, I love it. Darn shadows...sorry!

Fabulous!!
When we walked on from visiting and viewing Barbara's quilts I just had the warm fuzzy's and we all let out a heavy sigh!! But there was so much more to see!

This blue wedding ring is the pattern I am making with Krista's mother for their( the triplets Parents) wedding quilt. Another long story which has nothing to do with this show except for the pattern is the same. And well its way overdue and its not completely our fault its so late.

Story for another day....

This quilt was made by Lawry Thorn, darn no picture of Lawry. She was the featured Inspirational Teacher for the show, and the very talented fun gal who I take my Mystery classes from. This quilt is the quilt she made last fall when I made my log cabin quilt. Only her's is done, in the show and FOR SALE. Tempting.....love her fabrics so much. Fun setting Lawry, thanks for all your inspiration.

This next quilt was in the teacher presentation, the teachers during the week have a wonderful show, I will show more next time but I loved this one. Is the "G" for Grandma or Gardening, or mabe Grand for how beautiful all aspects of it are for sure.

I say grand for this wonderful quilting......Janet Fogg was the maker. This quilt goes along the grammy theme, for all you grammy's out there, there are a few of us lucky ones isn't there. And many new ones recently, and I thought of you!
The color gray! I remembered a wonderful gal, Gwen Hurlburt when I saw this quilt. She is a very wonderful quilter and used gray alot. She had a quilt show many years ago and most of her quilts had gray, after that I went out and purchased a rubbermaid full.......still have most of them..lol..... Suzie reminded me of a Bear story Gwen told. Gwen made bears, fabulous bears make out of mohair and other yummy fibers. Well she liked them to look old and antiqued, so after finishing one particular bear she tied it to a rope, which was tied to her bike and she went for a bike ride. Well the bear was just perfectly antiqued when she finished her ride........She is a real hoot!
This quilt was my favorite quilt of the show, its hard to have one and sorry again for the shadow, most of my quilts this year have the dang shadows.....I digress but I love this one. The applique is so beautiful, the quilting is just perfect and the overall color pleases me so much! Again you can go here for a better picture!
Twisted Sisters Marion and Sally, hi girls it was fun seeing you this week.
Thursday before the quilt show I met up with the Twisted Sisters to do some shopping in Bend and grocery shop for it was our night to cook. Cocktails first..... Linda, Suzie and I getting ready to serve up dinner and cocktails Paula Deen style.
We made some recipes out of Paula Deen's magazine, they were delicious! Cornmeal was the theme I guess with Cornmeal Parmesan Chicken and a layered Cornmeal Chile Meat dish with Green Salad and Margaritas. It was good but really when you are with your friends and quilting buddy's everything tastes good.
CHEERS! Suzie, Linda, Christine, Marion and Michelle!!

The house we rented was in Bend this year on nice Butte with gorgeous views. Large dining room for sharing meals. This is a must for our sit down dinners together.

Four of the group went to the Gee's Bend event held in Sisters that evening, they came home and shared with the rest of us, unfortunately the sound system was very poor but the overall story got through.

There was a home theater in the house this year, with six big recliners. So Cool! I watched "The Secret Life of Bee's " in the theater room, missed the showing of Mama Mia though, so regrettable. Girls I can just see you all singing along!

If you are still with me I am amazed, I am almost asleep myself....lol.....

I have more quilts to share, but tomorrow is my Anniversary and my dear sweet husband is taking me somewhere special.

I had an invitation on my desk when I got home Tuesday, "inviting me to spend an evening with your husband and boyfriend Joe. You will be treated to a place with breath taking scenery, gorgeous sunsets and beautiful sunrises. Dinner for two will be served at 7pm Friday evening July 17. Attire is informal. Please RSVP at your convenience."

He made this invitation himself, I was so touched by it, unfortunately he got a call to go work 3 hours away the next morning so he had to leave at 2:30 am that morning and got home yesterday afternoon.

So I may get another quilt show post off in the morning and then I will share the pictures of the special place we are going.

Primitive Blessing to you,

Carrie

Visit to Sahalie Falls, Some new Wool Just In Time!

2009-07-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

Tylor was here to visit for a week, we enjoy our grandson so much! He is such a fun loving guy and so much at home when he is with us.
He worked in the yard and garden with me a couple of days and we got so much done. Team work really makes yard work so much easier and more fun. He loaded the wheelbarrow with bark and dumped weeds in the field for me. Besides the sunburn and sore muscles it was a very fun time!!
Tuesday we met my DD up on the pass at Sahalie Falls. It is such a beautiful area, I love going there all throughout the year. It is almost half way to Eugene and a place we meet often to spend time together. Actually there are two falls there with a trail along side the river. When the temperatures are 90 degrees and hotter it is a cool refreshment too.

This month Joe and I will celebrate our 27th anniversary. I think I am getting taller than he is, lol.... he had knee surgery on Wednesday maybe he will be able to stand back up after it heals. He really was in pain, the meniscus tear is pretty painful, and it was hard keeping up with all the wirehairs during hunting season. We are looking forward to some trail hikes this summer now that he is all fixed up.
Joe is much to comfortable out on these rocks, it above the falls and it made me nervous just taking the pictures. My looking at this picture really shows how grown up Tylor is. I was blessed with getting to care for Tylor while his mother worked until he started kindergarten. One reason our home is like a second home to him, he spent most of his early years with us.
We moved to Bend when he was 5, it was so hard to do. I think I have said that before but 120 miles away was to far for this gramma. Looking forward to Ty coming back later this week.

I have been sewing on my table runner from a class with Maggie Bonanomi. Maggie is my favorite prim wool teacher. Her classes are more than a lesson in technique, she shares her love of prim and primitive fabrics. In every class I have taken with her she always shares some of her antique fabrics in the kits. They are one of a kind for sure. Maggie is easy going and charming and I love being in her class making one of her projects.

When we went to Seattle in June we stopped by Carriage Country Quilts for me to shop for wool.
I picked up a few pieces for the Bunnyhill BOM. The July block was posted today and it is so thoughtfully designed. Each month I say this is my favorite, I'm sure next month I will feel the same way.

I wanted some reds and greens too so I went online to the Buggy Barn and ordered some bundles. They are just wide enough to use for a basket. A lqs had a good selection so I purchased some plaids from there too. Our local shops are getting ready for the upcoming Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, I found some nice yardage at BJ's.
Tuesday my girlfriends, The Twisted Sisters, are coming and staying at a home in Bend. I am looking forward to some fun girl time and sewing together. I am pretty lucky to live in a quilt rich area, especially this week.
I am picking my reds for my Bunnyhill BOM so I think some of my new wools will get used pretty quickly.
The little Schnibbles pattern was so cute I thought it would be perfect for a charm pack.
OK back to sewing, I have some items that need finishing up so I can share them with the girls next week. Show n Tell with quilt friends really is the best.

Liberty Blessings,

Carrie

God Bless America

2009-07-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who serve and protect our liberty! I am so thankful to live in a country that protects our privilege to acknowledge our Faith in God! May it always be so!!

I put up my new Summer Flag this weekend, I love it, it is full of flowers and expresses my heart for this summer.

Liberty blessing to all my blogging friends!!

Carrie

Goldfinches and Iris

2009-06-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this spring I saw a very bright yellow bird out my office window. I tried to get a picture but it wasn't holding still for a minute. I think its the first year I have had this pretty little gal.

Then this last weekend Joe brings in the cutest little yellow baby bird that he found in the yard. We discussed what we could do and felt pretty bad. It looked in good health but just to small to fly.

I went out where he found it and saw a nest above in the tree, Joe climbed up and said no its to old and in bad shape. So he took it out of the tree and we were standing there discussing where the real nest could be when along comes the mama bird. We go sit on the bench and watch for her to fly to the nest, well she goes right to where we took the nest down. AAAhhhh........we panicked.....oh no... it can't be. OK we decide to put it back and put the baby in and see if she will accept and forgive our intrusion.

Well she did, amazing enough, but everyday this little baby bird either falls or flies out of the nest several times.

So up the ladder we go to put it back in the nest, mama is still feeding the cute little thing and it has really grown in the last four days.

This eye doesn't look to be its best side, but then we all have our good side don't we.

Here is the little bird in its misshapen nest. We think the heavy rain and hail we had two weeks ago made it squish into a figure 8 and mama can not sit on the nest with the baby. But they are handling it the best they can and we keep an eye out for the little flyer.....hoping soon it will be flying the nest instead of falling straight down to the, thankfully, soft lawn.

Here is mama perched just below, the nest is on the right above her. She is a good mama and we are glad she forgives us and is sticking with her little chick.

On a flowery note I am enjoying my Iris this year, they are a fragile flower but are so beautiful.

Hope your week is going well, we are enjoying some beautiful warm weather. Now if the wind would take a break my little friend could stay put.

Hugs,

Carrie

Seattle Graduation, Sharing Old n' First Quilt

2009-06-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

Last weekend DH and I took a quick trip to Seattle to celebrate our niece's graduation from Seattle University School of Nursing. She is the one with the drink in her hand, didn't notice that when I took the picture. Pictured with her are classmates that are graduating with her. A very nice group of "young" people. Visiting with them I found myself asking questions about their views on our aging society, lol...... us boomers need to be thinking about these people who will be our caregivers........ I was very impressed with their openness and intelligence. They were all full energy and excitement for their new careers. They also had a sincere sense of compassion, I really liked that. Then I asked who was making those yummy bloody mary's, cause I would really love on too!! LOl........ after all it was a party and it was a long drive, I needed to relax!

Sarah in her little hat that she would wear during the cap and gown ceremony. We all wanted to know if the guys were going to wear the same one!!.. lOl.....no mercy!
After the party my sister and I went out for a little shopping time together to my favorite place , Country Village. It is a very quaint set of shops in Bothell. They have beautiful flowers on the grounds and even some feathered friends. This pink peony was just beautiful.

This wonderful dogwood tree is at my sister's home, they are just beautiful this year.I participated in a Primitive Porch Swap and I made a very fun flag for my partner. It is a Country Threads pattern. I have been wanting to make this up for some time and the swap just seemed the perfect opportunity. I did some machine quilting on it and I just need to do a lot more or give it up. It has been awhile and I was so tense, I really had to dig to find my quilting gloves and when I did it was so much better. They really do help.

I found the birdhouse at a vendor mall in Sisters and thought it was perfect. It was made of old wood. The book is blank pages for drawing or making notes. I like doodle pads and journaling. Not pictured are the flags I purchased at the last minute and then proceded to close up the box, I had set the camera on top of the box when I loaded the car and didn't notice it slipped inside. LOL......

I had to put the quilt in my little garden area for a memory shot.

So now I am quilting up another small project which I will show soon.

The next quilt is one I purchased on a trip a couple years ago to Seattle. We were with my Sister and her husband, there is a wonderful shop at Pike's Market and we both found an antique quilt.

I love tree quilts and late 1800's this quilt fit both. I feel in love, it has some wonderful fabrics and it really sparkles. I took it off the quilt ladder this week and gave it a tumble in a warm dryer and its resting on the spare bedroom for awhile.

A close up showing some of the fabrics.
This wallhanging is the project I made when I learned to quilt. It is hand pieced and quilted.

The instructor picked the four blocks specifically for the techniques. We started by picking a border piece and fabrics that coordinated with it. I learned so much in that first class and still use some of the tips for machine piecing. That first border took some time, there were alot of set in pieces in it. I think it was a good thing to learn early on, it wasn't difficult I just needed to be precise.

I wished I had picked the red and green border and had a christmas quilt, but it is fun to go back and look at your first projects.

Many of my first projects were given as gifts, and I wish I kept better photo records of them. I do try to sign and make labels for them now, I didn't do that earlier. I really love the new digital cameras, not having to wait for film to be developed is wonderful.

I am painting my adirondak chairs this weekend, they have really needed it. I may be working in the garage since the weather is questionable for tomorrow. Hope your having a wonderful weekend!

Prim Blessings,

Carrie

Primitive Porch Swap, Spring Blooms

2009-06-10T16:05:00.000-07:00

The weather has cleared a little after yesterdays storm. My goodness between the wind, rain and hail my flowers are taking a beating!!! Now we have waited along time to have some nice weather and spring flowers so it is about to **** me off. LOL...... did I say that.....
Well anyway it cleared enough for me to get some pictures to share of my primitive porch swap goodies from Cindy of Cynthia Lee Designs.
First a couple items need to be indoors, the rain would not be good for them. They are just inside my front door greeting friends and family in the spirit of summer. Very cheery and the little bird house has been primmed and is so cute!
On the porch hangs a heart and star all primmed and so cute with my willow heart, which has the painted water can. Cindy painted the little watering can with a flag and sheep. Now this little water can has been filled twice by the rain we are having recently, it is holding up well I must say.

Here is a close up of the painting Cindy did, the detail is really wonderful. I have never been a painter so I was so excited to have something hand painted from Cindy.

The little flowers are trying to put a little life in this area off the front porch where I moved some Iris. There will not be any blooms this year so I thought this would be a perfect spot. The rain really is being kind of hard on them though. They have been primmed to and I love the perky little flowers.

Thank you Cindy for the fun and creativeness you put into our swap, I will enjoy them and think of you often this summer!

Our peonies are in full bloom and they are loaded. I think they are even bigger this year.

The Iris are just beginning to bloom, I think the rain is really bringing everything on so I hope the hard rain is gone for awhile.

I have been trying to get out a couple hours each day to keep up with the flower beds. Sunday I spent 6 hours cleaning up and spreading mulch. That was a bit much for the arthritis but I sure liked the way things looked afterwards.

This weekend we are going to Seattle. My niece has graduated from her nursing program and we will celebrate with her. Seattle is a fun place to visit, we'll see how much we can pack into two days.

Spring blessings,

Carrie

Gift in the mail and what a storm!

2009-06-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

I got some fun mail last week! I was the winner at Lovestitches giveaway. Steph gave a stitchery that she made. It is really adorable.
The stitches on this are amazingly small, the little flowers really need a better camera than mine to show the detail.
I am sorry it has taken more than a week to show my prize, but I did not get the picture downloaded before I sent my camera on its little trip. No need to go there again.

Its really the cutest thing, I love it and can really appreciate how tiny these cute little flowers are. I just would never be able to do them so small. Thank you Steph for sharing your art, it is nicely framed in a wooden hoop and ready to display.

Right now it is on my Grandmother's piano with this little teapot. The stitchery is a little kimono girl and I thought she looked so cute next to these little dutch children on my antique teapot!So this afternoon I headed out to the post office, the skies were getting pretty dark and the rain was just beginning. Within 20 minutes a loud lightening storm with rain and hail made for a real driving mess.

We must have had 3 inches of rain and hail in just that 20 minutes. I wasn't feeling to bright driving in the lightening but I was already half way to the post office before I drove into the worst of it.

The hail looked like snow it was so thick.

I think I am glad I didn't get in the middle of this part of the storm, I would have had to pull over.

Anyway I got my package from the post office and got my grocery shopping done!!

And I got my camera in time to take these pictures, Lol........ aren't you excited!!!

My poor yellow flower basket has really taken poorly to the wind and hail. It will need some tender care to snap out of this beating.

My goodies from my porch swap are holding up and I will get some pictures and have show 'n' tell tomorrow.

I even have some pictures of my Wool Garden blocks, they are looking so good, I just love the large baskets of flowers out of wool.

Spring blessings,

Carrie

What Makes You Happy?

2009-06-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

Do you know what makes you happy? Some people are just upbeat and so infectious, but all of us have those things in our lives that make us happy.
My grandson Hayden has found one thing that is making him very happy!! Hayden is the oldest of the triplets, yes maybe only by 30 seconds but being in the right place at the right time is everything.
Hayden has a reputation for being fussy, one way or another we find ways to communicate our frustrations. And babies have the one way that really gets our attention.
One day while daddy was feeding another brother, Hayden had a look on his face that alerted daddy to get his camera. Daddy just knew something was going to happen.

Yep, I think I got this figured out.........and I just know I can do it.....Ahaa....I'm up and lovin what I have found.....the freedom to move around my world and explore.
Hayden is loving his newly found mobility and finds others can be helpful in ways they maybe wouldn't volunteer. The shortest way isn't always without obstacles but thats OK...with Hayden!

Hayden is a very happy, mobile, and exploring guy!
He finds that everything can assist in his new found joy of standing! Except for all the coffee and end tables that are now out of the living room! But thats OK because he is happy!

And these two brothers bring him much happiness........laughing is infectious ya know!!

Being a triplet brings much happiness....These blocks make great teething biscuits........we all agree! Eating is one of our favorite things to do.
Ethan is a firm believer in an "Apple A Day" theory! They are yummy!!

Graham teething cookies make us all happy, we are all satisfied and happy eating our first cookie in the warm weather on the deck. They are so delicious, gooey and fun to smear everywhere.

And bathtime in the big bathtub really make us all happy, even Mommy!
Warm weather brings fun outings, like this trip to the zoo!! Yeah warm spring weather!

At home Hayden has found there are many things and places to explore besides the large collection of play apparatus you see in most pictures.

Hayden happily crawls from room to room finding his home to be so interesting. Not minding the independence one bit.
Another frontier awaits, no wonder Omaha and Emily usually lay here, this is wonderful! Just wait till I'm tall enough to open this door!

If you see something that interests you and you want a closer look...well.........

Just crawl on over and take a peek............mobility makes me HAPPY!!
Hey........what's going on.........I was just having some fun. And I am very happy!!

And what makes me, Gramma happy, is receiving 130 new pictures on snapfish from Krista!!

Its two months away and the boys will be having their first birthday. Pappa and I have purchased our tickets and are looking forward to celebrating with all the lucky grammy's and pappa's in the midwest!! My mother is also planning on going too, which will give them two Great Grammy's to celebrate with.

I am off to the post office to pick up my package with my camera. YEAH!! It's home from its little trip, that also makes me happy.

See the quilt on the floor, that is the quilt I made for my son's high school graduation! It is Geese in the Cabins.

Be Happy,

Carrie

I Did, call me crazy!!

2009-05-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

Well how fun is a swap, a primitive porch swap actually. I got my package and wouldn't let myself open it until I got my package in the mail.
So I was going out of town to help a friend search for a summer home for her daughter in Eugene. She was delayed so I took pictures in the front yard and garden of my creation. Put it all in a box with the camera on top and packed my car. Drove myself to Sandy's home and off we went to Eugene.
I wanted one more item for the package and didn't find it in Bend. so I left the box open!!
So we had fun looking all over Eugene, around the U of O. Home of the Oregon Ducks! Where Sandy's darling daughter will be taking 21 credits this summer for her degree!!!!!
We made a stop at a store on campus I knew would have what I was looking for, and I also knew Sandy would love Hiron's Drugs. Full of curio fun cute stuff, drug store with a convenient mailing station in it. ( I should have got my camera and taken pictures, afterthought).
I found what I was looking for and some Thera-tears, grass pollens were through the roof in Eugene. So I went to the car got my package ready and mailed it off with my delivery confirmation. OK!! Feeling very good now!!!
Fast forward to today........ I opened my package last night, fun cute stuff can't wait to decorate my porch tomorrow and take pictures for this blog..........
Well.........where is my crazy camera?

Can't find it anywhere....not in my purse......or my overnight bag...pick-up......Sandy's minivan....

OMG......I think the last time I had it was taking pictures of my swap gift!!!! Yes......I mailed it to my swap partner in Ohio!!!! LOL...........
I can not believe it, well yes I can....its me!!! My husband came home today and I told him....yeah he got a chuckle.... YOU DID?!!!
Soooo.......I will send pictures of my swap and a wonderful prize I won too. It is the cutest little stitchery and I am so sad I didn't download that picture before I sent my camera to Ohio!! LOl...

Well, I have decorated my front porch area Cindy and I love everything. DH approves and gave a cute smile.......ya know the one!!! Humoring my past times with the blog and all!!!
He better smile, while he's been bringing home the bacon I have been doing his chores!!!
LOL......actually my youngest son owes me big time so I have him doing the chores......love that part!

So please humor me while this menopausal crazy blogger has no pictures to share of her first swap.... I know I will soon. At least I hope that camera went to Ohio....Oh I am not going to even think I totally lost it.

Have a great weekend, I am going to watch a movie with my DH and catch up!!

Crazy in Bend!

Memorial Day with Mom

2009-05-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

We had a beautiful weekend in Central Oregon. The weather was warm but not hot and mild breezes, just perfect!! We even had our first pop-up thunder & lightening storm. Which thankfully fizzled out before it caused any threats. But it does remind me that with the warmer weather we have the upcoming threats of fires.
Joe is working out of town for a couple weeks, he came home saturday and brought his mother too!! It is always fun when Boots comes for a visit. She is happy to stay home so you have to do some fancy steps and talkin, if that doesn't work you just have to pick her up and bring her along anyway!! LOL..... She lives with Joe's brother and their family needed some time together to go on a camping trip fishing. It gave my BIL and his family a much needed break...... its a priviledge to be able to care for your parents and it puts a demand on you too.

I took a couple pictures of Joe and his mom together before they left on Monday. I really like this one, even though her eyes are closed from the sun. I just thought it captured a tenderness, and that is how Joe feels about his mom. We got on the web-cam with my son in Omaha and the triplets. You know I love it, but it was fun having Boots get to see the boys.
I worked in the yard after they left early Monday, they had to drive over the passes and it is crazy on a holiday weekend. Every campground in the state of Oregon was full this weekend. Which means the roads would be extremely busy with trailers, boats and every other type of recreational vehicle.

I got busy on some much needed grass pulling and garden bed clean-up. My back is particulary sore this morning so I guess I accomplished something. I got some annuals planted in pots and beds too. Hopefully they will not get frosted like my tomatoes did.

Today I am going to finish up my Primitive Porch Swap and get it in the mail later in the week. I hate mailing it so close to the deadline but my partner is out of town and I don't want it to arrive while she is gone.
And since she is out of town and maybe, hopefully wont see I will give a peek to the flag I am making for her. I need to make a decision about the batting, I want it to not be to stiff or bulky but still look quilt like.

As I said my DH is working out of town for the week so I have alot of time to sew and garden. I have more things I want to do than time will allow. I will give it a good shot anyway!!

I am going to have lunch with a couple friends at a wonderful place, if the weather stays nice maybe I can get a picture.

I am looking forward to seeing what Karen has been working on for Farmhouse Woolens. In all her spare time, from moving into her new home and the challenges that come with that, she will be updating her business website.

I am finishing up the stitching on my last two blocks from Wool Garden, they are so beautiful. I love they way the quilt is coming together.

Spring blessings,

Carrie

Catching bugs and catching up!

2009-05-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

Oh, I am a very bad blogger.....I can not get words together. After a long fortnight of a very nasty bug. Sore throat, cough, more sore throat I am feeling so human, sounding human too. But thats no excuse, my mind will not stay focused enough to get anything done. I am behind so I am going in circles.

Last weekend my daughter and oldest grandson came to visit for my birthday. It was so nice to have them. Tylor is a bundle of energy and just the nicest young man. He entertained me with antics in the yard. Oh to be 14 again, or just energetic...
This one better... and one arm.....I would break my neck I think.

Ty and Casey playing some frisbee....

Oh dear Pepper wants to get in the fun and this went on a while. Pepper is an athlete and no one caught her until she was ready.Flowers are starting to bloom and my lilac will be pretty for a short while, it has a blight of some sort that ruins the bloom. Next spring I have to do some spraying for it. But for now it is heavenly in the evening and early morning.

I planted radishes and they are sprouting, the cool mornings haven't damaged them yet.

A pink tulip in the garden, the moles get my tulips in this area so I am glad to see a small clump made it after last summer.

My sister sent me a gift, sisters are the best. And I agree with her on this, she is my best friend.

She is always sending me some wonderful yarn, and a couple years ago she bought me this plate.

I love antique dishes. And some very delicous chocolates, with caramel inside. Yum!!

The yarn is silk and merino, so soft. I believe a scarf with cable would be perfect, but we'll see.

Yellow petunia basket from Matney and Tylor. I just love yellow and these are so pretty.

Tylor took pictures of some other creatures living at our place. Joe and friends made a new flight pen recently for these Chukar. They are in the partridge family. The enjoy there rock pile.

And Pilgrim is our TWH we use for field trialing. He is pretty sweet, but right now he isn't very happy about being taken off the green grass. Darn!! Yucky old hay when the fields are so rich and lush. Mean old people anyway!!

I went to Sisters to a little handmade merchant mall... looking for something good for my porch swap.
I have enough benches around the place but they sure had some fun ones out front.

Cute birdhouses, can't have to many of those....
Crazy yard art too...
Then one afternoon this guy came into my backyard....

This is my DH Joe, bringing me some good soil for this abused flower bed. Between the mole, the dogs digging for the mole and putting in a new irrigation pipe it is ruined. New rich soil to get ready for a new tree and shrubs.

This is our business, delivering topsoil, sand, mulch and rock products for construction, landscapers, homeowners etc. It really is a big guys toy. Joe just loves this business. I mean its just a remote control 70,000 lb toy. And it makes your job easier, he places the material most the time right where you want it, or over the fence anyway. Makes people very happy!!

And he loves meeting people and making them happy.
Now I know most people can't have the darn truck drive through their back yard and it surprised me too... I love living out of town and having space around me.

Next time you see this flower bed it is going to be looking so much better!! Right dogs!!

While Matney and Ty were here we went to the Pole, Peddal, Paddle event. The finish is in the Old Mill District, it was a beautiful day and outdoors so I could go and keep my cough to myself...

The last event is paddleing your canoe, kayak whatever then running to the finish line a short distance away from the river.
Don't you just love this guy paddling this big board...
Both sides of the river were lined with people, restaurants enjoyed business side with many people dining on the patios watching the event.

Our friend came by and shared his strawberry from crashing his bike....ouchee Gary!!

Yes, even the pets came.... this little pot belly pig didn't hold still for a picture....hey if a pig can go I surely can go with my cough..... And sitting back and people watching was very fun, we were not disappointed......... I wish my legs looked like hers....but then I would have to run 40 miles and bike 100 miles a week probably and thats not likely going to happen any time soon.This group was very fun and mixed sexes let me tell you this much....
those arms on the right are not a ladies....trust me....Ty wasn't brave enough to get a face shot...LOL....

Yeah it was so fun getting out and dreaming about next year.....Oh yeah DH we are really gonna do this next year....LOL .....

I have been catching up on my BOM and finishing a couple swaps so next post I will give some pictures of quilty things. I even went shopping and spent my birthday money at The Stitchin Post, who has everything 25% off for their birthday sale. Online to...so if you want to browse them just click on the link.

I have so enjoyed the many blogs sharing about quilt market last weekend. Oh so funny!!!!

And Anne celebrated her birthday and it wasn't!! The ladies really know how to celebrate their short time together. If you haven't read through the saga from market this year do.....I so enjoyed it so much, I even shared it with Joe and the kids while they were here.

Have a safe and wonderful Memorial Day weekend. We are so blessed to be able to live in a country with so much freedom. God Bless!

Carrie

Just Another Hang-Up!

2009-05-14T19:53:00.000-07:00

Suzanne at Just Another Hang-up is having a darling giveaway. Hop on over and sign up for a perfect summer bag.

Oh!! She is a stickler for rules make sure you follow directions.

Carrie

Gardening on the Edge, Daisy Mae

2009-05-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

The Tulips started blooming and are so pretty.....I needed to do some shopping at Costco last Friday and was a bit side-tracked with the rows of flower baskets and trays of petunias. Soooo.. having no self control I picked up a basket and some trays. Daring to garden on the edge, a risk to be to early, daring the frost to take them away..... but so worth having the color in the flower beds.

I planted some vegetables and herb seeds in the garden. This weekend I think the flowers will go in the ground.

The Petunia's and Viola's will give some color, I need to buy the ground covers and some plants for pots too. But it is so fun to get the first blooming flowers.

Winter just is hanging around to long.

We had a busy weekend with our club Hunt Test and I just want to share one picture of Joe and Daisy. Daisy Mae passed her final test to achieve her Master Hunter title. She is now Joe's Lil Daisy Mae MH. I know..... so impressive!!! She is nine years old and Joe decided when she was 5 1/2 to go for the title. You can teach dog's new tricks, it just takes awhile, and you have fun along the way.

Have a great weekend, we are expecting a wonderful warm weekend. I am sure the garden will get some more planting. Saturday we will enjoy watching a local event Pole, Pedal, Paddle.
Even with a slow economy the entries this year are larger than the past year. It is a competitive event which individuals and teams ski, bike, run and paddle a boat to the finish line. I will show some pictures on Monday. Tylor and Matney will be visiting and Ty is bringing his very cool camera and we will get some good shots in all the sunny weather!!

Spring Blessings,

Carrie

Happy May Day!!

2009-05-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

I remember participating in May Pole celebrations in grade school. Crepe paper was used and it was always so colorful. It wasn't in a field of daisies like this picture but it is engraved in my memory as a very exciting experience. The weaving in and out of our streams made such a beautiful braid down the pole.

I received an email this morning letting me know I won an embroidery prize at Lovestitches.
I am so excited to win her darling embroidery, it really is a great way to start my day. Thanks Steph for sharing your talent so generously.

I have been stitching and sewing away on my PIF and Prim Porch Swap, they are fun projects and it is exciting seeing them come together. Both will come to fruition and be mailed before the end of this new month. So no pictures of anything to share. Sorry, but later I will.

Thank you for all your helpful comments on my last post. I have shared and discussed them with Joe, they really have been so helpful, giving us experiences and solutions to discuss.
My medications have been helpful for my migraines, and my night swets have eased off with the headaches. I have been reading on rebound headaches, which can be caused by taking to much medication, to frequently. What?...... so I have put up with the little headaches and stopped taking the excedrin migraine that had been helpful. And they have seemed to go away too, for now anyway. It's all a learning process and things work differently for all of us.

Take care and enjoy the warmer spring weather we are having. We have so many birds right now, I love listening to all there singing and chattering, soon there will be all the babies.

Spring blessings,

Carrie

Spring Flowers, Alivia

2009-04-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying some beautiful warm weather here in Central Oregon. The first blooms are busting out, the irrigation water is on, which brings on green field and lawns. Yippeeee....
I am lovin it!! There is snow up on the mountains, which will be melting into the rivers, which will fill the reservoirs......so on and so on....

Last weekend we got up into the 80's, I was quickly reminded that I am menopausal and better find that fan to sleep with...... hmmmm....how long till I break down and go get some HRT. I have been holding out on doing this but I am getting closer to having the discussion at my next appointment with the fun doctor. Please share your story on Hormone Replacement if you have one. My SIL works for the company in Seattle who heads up the study on HRT. Some results from the study really make me nervous about using HRT. I have always waited until I am miserable before taking medication. I am thinking I am miserable enough now!! time to have the discussion.

Last week I went to a doctor regarding my migraines. I have had them for years and they have come on with a vengeance lately so I guess I was miserable enough and did a good thing. I found the doctor to be so understanding and had a very good discussion. I am taking medication to prevent as well as receiving some very expensive pills for killing the damn things before they kill me. That's what it feels like some times that your body is trying to kill you..... well so far so good........

Oh the sun feels so good, I am ready to bask in it, and get my garden planted, at least the seeds.

This Easter, our youngest son brought his fiance and Alivia over to celebrate with us. Alivia is three, and so fun and active. She is a an "on the go girly girl". I hid and I use the word loosely, some eggs. Made up a basket for her!!! What are holidays without kids to celebrate....just so much more fun with them.
So meet Alivia, cute little smile, bright eyes!! I want to be three...... she loved her little Starbucks bear, dressed in a lamb suit this year!!! Chocolate chicks....which she was unwrapping even as she posed for this picture.....so cute....she can multi-task!!!

Alivia was so fun, she loved this little antique cherub bird bath, the eggs were secondary at times....... so cute.

She kept smiling and running on to find the next one.... and she was keeping her lamb, thank you!.
Ok...somewhere they say there is an egg in this tree......lol.....

We are into Spring Field Trial season. Last weekend was our club event. It was fun, exhausting and I was so busy I took zero pictures. I prepared and fed the 30 some people breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most of the prep was done on Thursday at home. It is always a fun time but man do you get tired. We got home Sunday at 11pm and took showers, veged for a bit and fell in bed.

Our young pup Casey, took second in Puppy....I miss not having my horse anymore so I didn't watch him run.

These next two weekends we get to go participate without all the organization, just offering a helping hand and enjoying a group of very nice people.

OK just one more picture, I didn't get to have the triplets for Easter but I did get some pictures. So I will share just one, my they are growing so much, and I love their yellow and blue Easter outfits. And there hairdoos!!

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend, I hope you get outside and have wonderful spring weather.

Spring blessings,

Carrie

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a wonderful Easter Day! Hold on to those things most dear to your Heart!Easter Blessings,

Carrie

Alzheimer Art Quilt Initiative, Happy Easter

2009-04-10T11:40:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about Ami Simm's amazing efforts regarding Alzheimer's.

I want to share about it again, today is the last day to participate in the monthly auction.
Go here:

http://www.alzquilts.org/quiltauction.html

And you can bid on a wonderful art quilt. Two years ago, my Twisted Sisters and I made quilts and sent them to be auctioned. It was so much fun. I even bought a couple, I kept some and gave some as gifts for Christmas. I enjoy looking each month, even when I don't bid. Enjoy!

It is a busy day getting ready for some Easter celebrating this weekend. My youngest son is coming over with his fiance and her daughter. We will get to hide some eggs and have a dinner celebrating together.

Sunday morning we will attend church services and then go to Portland.

Easter Blessing to all of you!

Carrie

IT'S HERE.....

2009-04-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

Oh Yes....Lovely Spring Weather......has blessed Central Oregon. I celebrated by working in my garden, flower beds, took a two hour walk along the Deschutes River with a girlfriend. Finished the day with a BBQ dinner. It was so wonderful.

So wonderful until my sore muscles tried to get out of bed this morning. Ouch! I am going to be doing some stretching and lighter celebration in the yard work today.

It does feel like a celebration though, I hope Spring is blessing you with some warm weather too.

After dinner, I printed up your comments and put them in a basket for my DH to draw.

The winner of the little spring 30's fabric pack is Quilt Hollow! So please email me your mailing address and I can get these in the mail to you.

Thank you for all your comments, it has been fun.

Today is going to be a nice day so I am going to spend some more time outside. Yeah!!

Spring blessings,

Carrie

Tea Towel Embroidery, Sweet Spring Giveaway

2009-04-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent some time going through my embroidery patterns, magazines and the web looking for ideas for my colorful tea towels. It was very fun and I think I found enough ideas to do more than three.
First I pulled out my Folk Art Friendship book, it is full of many varied projects. I want a vine to do along the bottom and something not to busy above it.

I found vines that I could repeat across, like some of these.

I like the dangling hearts on this one. And repeat the vine below it.Or Anne of Bunnyhill Designs has her A Tiskit, A Tasket BOM embroidery pattern.

I thought I had more Crabapple Hill patterns than I found so I went to Meg's website. I love this one. It is from her free downloads. It may be busier than I was looking for but it is perfect for my towels and just what I had in mind. May is Mother's Day and my birthday month. So I will do this on the turquoise towel.. using some brighter threads...... on top of the third vine, there are just X's, she has detailed instructions on some daisies free to download. So if you like this design go to the link highlighted above. You can see her new designs and she has a cute club you can join.

I shared previously about the Australian Homespun magazine. The have a lot of embroidery and here are three that I liked. A sweet house mini quilt, it would make a cute design, the trees are so cute, with Blessings and a heart.

This is to cute, maybe not for my towels, but it is part of their new mystery BOM, to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation. I would love to be doing this along with them, I am hesitant to start anything new. But these are really tempting me, it is block two of Breast of Friends, designed by artist Bronwyn Hayes of Red Brolly. This BOM will be revealed over the next nine months and there is a sneak peek of all the blocks in this issue. Are you as tempted as I am?

The link to Homespun for Breast of Friends: http://www.completecraft.com.au.

Well continuing in the same magazine is a project by Christine Book. I have a wonderful book by her, this basket of flowers is definitely jumping off the page for me. Very folky and just the perfect size. I love the tongues too, or the border pattern I could do as well.
Yes, I like this one very much as well. But maybe on some osnaburg, or some linen.

Well its always fun searching through patterns to find the design. It's part of the process of quilting that I love. Searching through fabrics is another. I have been going through my fabrics and doing some organizing a clearing out. I came along some 30's prints, I do not have alot of these but I have had some for a very long time. So I cut the 1/2 yards pieces in half and made fat quarters. While looking through my AP&Q June issue I came across this quilt.It really appealed to my desire for spring to get here fast. And I remembered those fat quarters. I made a couple stacks and I want to give one away. There are 16 pieces in the bundle. So leave me a message on this post and Sunday evening I will draw for a winner. That will give me time to add a couple things to juice it up abit.

I think these fabrics would work in this quilt, maybe you have your own idea. Its up to you, so pass it along to your friends, sharing is a good thing.

Thanks for stopping by and my very best spring wishes to all of you.

Carrie

Applique Peek, Gadget & Spring Cleaning too!

2009-04-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

I shared about a new gadget for applying liquid starch for freezer paper applique. As shown in my newest Fresh Vintage issue. Well, I really like it, I guess I could say I love it. It is easy to use, easy to control the amount applied and stores nicely. To use: fill pen reservoir with liquid starch, squeeze lightly, the starch flows through the tip, move the tip along you seam allowance until damp. Use your craft iron to turn seam allowance to back side of freezer paper. I removed the freezer paper template and used fabric glue to hold pieces in place.

I am not sure if I would have the need to use it as Clover markets it, but one really never knows. I never thought I would like applique as much as I do. I just want to like my applique and so far I am so pleased with my results.

Just a sneak peek at the project, it is a gift. I did some sewing by hand on it last night, with DMC cotton thread. It was nice to have the pieces turned and behaving for me, being all thumbs about applique.

I picked up the new Australian Homespun magazine, it has some very nice articles and always so nicely done. They have a new BOM using Buggy Barn fabrics, In The Pink II and Australian designers. The first two blocks are in this issue. Check it out, or share a friends issue its great.

The flour sack kitchen towels are from a kitchen store in Eugene. I took Ty, my oldest grandson, home Monday and had to go check out Pepperberries. These are such happy colors. I am looking through my stitchery for a pattern.

They remind me of Easter and Spring and I think they would be so cute with some embroidery.

Then yesterday my June issue of American Patchwork Quilting came in the mail. It didn't disappoint to say the least. Anne Sutton, of Bunnyhill Designs is the featured quilter. Her story and her sewing room, well you couldn't ask for a more perfect featured artist. After looking at all the goodies in Anne's sewing room and how whimsical everything is set, well my sewing room was just blushing from the lack of its owners creative spirit. So as well as wanting to sew up the many cute quilts in the issue, I want to primp my pad, show off the cute stuff I have spent a good fortune on too. I could go on about everything, but I showed my DH and said I want mine to look just like that. He nodded his head and said uh huh......... so I had to show him Anne's funny blog from yesterday where she shared her screen cleaner. If you haven't gone there .....do........oh my how good a belly chuckle is for your health. So don't miss out on this June issue, if you are not a subscriber.

I have been doing some spring cleaning and just getting serious about having things and not using them or getting them made up. So as a first step I am going to offer them to you blogging peeps. Leave me a comment or email me if you are interested. Thank you for letting me use this site to get some cleaning done in my sewing room.

Moda Jan Patek Country Paths FQ bundle 38 pieces $66.50 SOLD

2007 Mystery Quilt by Jan Patek BOM $144

12 month applique patterns and fabric.

SOLD

The March packet contains the sashing and border fabric, as well as the applique block.

This next quilt BOM by Blackbird Designs from 2006. An applique BOM from Primitive Gatherings. $85
Includes 5 yards of background and 5 packets of fabric.
If you are interested in any item I will consider any offer. I just want someone to have them who wants to or has the time to sew them up.

I will ship USPS in flat rate/priority box. Cost will be $10.35 or $13.95 depending on box size.

There is a give away at Quilt Hollow, a wonderful wool project, go check it out.

Spring Blessings,

Carrie

Happy Birthday Chris!

2009-03-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow Chris will celebrate his 36th birthday. WOW!! It is amazing to run the mental play back of 36 years of events in your oldest childs life, and then to look to the future.
Busy days and years ahead is what I see, having triplet boys. So much fun. Chris called us yesterday and we had a short webcam moment. The boys were sitting up playing with their toys. Hayden, pictured with Chris above, is the oldest and he needs a little interaction to keep him happy. Ethan, cute as a bug in his green leg casts, sitting up and cool as a cucumber. Jaxon, he is a little shy. But man o man when he is in his comfort zone, lets out his voice and plays with his toys. Our connection kept freezing so we will try another session this weekend.
It was so fun to see how they are growing.
My oldest grandson, Ty, is visiting for spring break so he got to see the boys too.

So Happy Birthday Chris, have a wonderful day! We wish we were there!

We are having a couple nice bluebird days here in Central Oregon. Ty and Uncle Sean are off to Hoodoo ski resort for some skiing. Should be an awesome day with the clear weather.

I have been reading Psalms 91 and 92 daily. It has been so uplifting with the pressure of this slow economy. Like everyone we have been challenged to cut back and prioritize finances even beyond what we expected. I know everything we are experiencing now will make us wiser in the future.

Today I am going to try out a new gadget I purchased. It is a Clover Fabric Folding Pen. I will put liquid starch in it, not its original intended use, to do my freezer paper applique prep. This idea came from Joanna Figueroa, in my Fresh Figs newsletter. I will let you know what I think. I purchased mine at Joanne's Fabric with a 50% coupon. It was $12.95 so yeah that was nice.

We are looking forward to a fun weekend with Ty visiting. Joe and Ty go next door to the B&B and challenge the innkeeper to Frisbee Golf. They have a great course and the competition is tense.

Happy Birthday Chris, Have a wonderful day Saturday!.

Hugs,

Carrie

Ethan

2009-03-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Ethan with the most loving mother any child could hope to have......Krista!

I have shared with you many times about my triplet grandsons. Hayden, Ethan and Jaxon. They are so amazing! And I have enjoyed comments and emails from many of you sharing your own joy with multiples in your families.

I have not shared with you about our Ethan. Ethan has Spina Bifida~Myelomeningocele.

Spina bifida is the most common of a group of birth defects call neural tube defects. (NTDs). The neural tube is the embryonic structure that develops into the brain and spinal cord. Often called open spine, spina bifida affects the backbone and, sometimes the spinal cord. It is one of the most common severe birth defects in the United States, affecting about 1,300 babies each year.

In the embryo, there is a tiny ribbon of tissue that folds inward to form a tube. This structure, called the neural tube, forms by the 28th day after conception. When this process goes awry and the neural tube does not close completely, defects in the spinal cord and in the vertebrae (small bones of the spine) can result.

There are three forms of spina bifida:

Occulta. In this mildest form, there are usually no symptoms. Affected individuals have a small defect or gap in one or more of the vertebrae of the spine. A few have a dimple, hairy patch, dark spot or selling over the affected area. The spinal cord and nerves usually are normal, and most affected individuals need no treatment.
Meningocele. In this rarest form, a cyst or fluid-filled sac pokes through the open part of the spine. The sac contains the membranes that protect the spinal cord, but not the spinal nerves. The cyst is removed by surgery, usually allowing for normal development.
Myelomeningocele. In this most severe form, the cyst holds both the membranes and nerve roots of the spinal cord and, often, the cord itself. Or there may be no cyst, but only a fully exposed section of the spinal cord and nerves. Affected babies are at high risk of infection until the back is closed surgically, although antibiotic treatment may offer temporary protection. Inspite of surgery, affected babies have some degree of leg paralysis and bladder and bowel control problems. In general, the higher the cyst on the back, the more severe the paralysis.

Ethan was in a sack to keep the affected area moist until his surgery. Ethan's cyst was low on his back making the best of a worst case scenario.

A baby with myelomeningocele usually requires surgery within 24 to 48 hours after birth. Doctors surgically tuck exposed nerves and spinal cord back inside the spinal canal and cover them with muscle and skin. Prompt surgery helps prevent additional nerve damage. However, nerve damage that already has occurred cannot be reversed. As soon after surgery as possible, a physical therapist teaches parents how to exercise their baby's legs and feet to prepare for walking with leg braces and crutches.

Ethan resting comfortably after surgery, he is one day old.

Ethan came home with exercises prescribed by his physical therapist. He did them 3 times daily and some were done with the exercise ball.

Hydrocephalus. About 70 to 90 percent of children with myelomeningocele develop hydrocephalus. When cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord, is unable to circulate normally, fluid collects in and around the brain, causing the head to be enlarged. Without treatment, hydrocephalus can result in brain damage and mental retardation. Doctors usually treat hydrocephalus by surgically inserting a tube called a shunt that drains the excess fluid. The shunt runs under the skin into the chest or abdomen, and the fluid passes harmlessly into the child's body. With treatment, children with spina bifida usually can become active individuals. Most live normal or near-normal life spans.
Prevention: A B-vitamin called Folic acid can help prevent spina bifida and other NTD's. The key is having enough folic acid in the system before pregnancy and during the early weeks of pregnancy, before the nerual tube closes.

My information shared is from the March of Dimes website: http://www.marchofdimes.com/

When Ethan came home from the hospital, at the same time as his brothers, he was in leg casts. He had club feet, which is common with spina bifida, and in this case a part of the condition. After 6 weeks the casts were removed to let muscle development happen and let the legs grow and straighten. Treatment would take place surgically at a later date.
In late September Ethan was experiencing hydrocephalus to a degree that it became necessary for a shunt to be inserted. This gave Ethan immediate relief from the pressure.
I love this picture, babies have a mind of there own and Ethan does too. You can see his shunt just under the scalp.
Ethan is so amazing, he is a people person. He prefers people to objects and from his earliest days this really showed. Even before the shunt was in place and it was difficult for him to look up from the pressure. Right before the Christening in October, Ethan had his shunt installed. Less than a week later you can see him look easily at his God-mother. God has blessed us with Ethan and Ethan is blessed with many loving and caring people in his life. It is a very emotional to have a child born with a birth defect. From the moment you know your life is changed. You are dealing with something completely out of your control. It is events like these that really challenge your faith into action. Looking back you know what a blessing it is. Our strength comes from God, He provides the strength and courage to face all challenges. And brings wonderful people along side you for support.

Ethan is the biggest of the triplets, he is getting stronger and sits up with help. A big smiler, such a gift to make you laugh and smile with him. His feet are still turned down and in, and soon will need the heel cords loosened. It is time to try some cereal, we are six months old:

WHOA! What did you put in my mouth....... I am not impressed.... lol.... Krista says he is enjoying it much better now but is so glad she got this picture. He did this for about a week.

Time goes by so fast and with three babies without pictures you forget the little things. Which are the big things really.

Ethan is developing normally along with his brothers, I think right now is really the easiest time for his condition. The boys are to young to know there are differences and challenges to over come, together.

Yes, how wonderful for Ethan to have these two characters for support. Watching the closeness of the boys is really a wonderful thing.

In February Ethan went in for a procedure to repair a small hernia. He is resting comfortably with his little friend. Krista said the nurses all loved coming in and being with him. He really draws people to him. Do you know someone like that, I find it one of the most endearing qualities. People with this gift are a gift to everyone they know.

The picture of a spoke in the wheel, it is strongest when all are present. This last week Ethan had his surgery to lengthen and loosen his heel cord. He is home resting comfortably with his green casts. In a month he will go in for new casts and more adjustments to feet. This should be his last surgery unless his shunt fails.

Ethan doesn't have feeling below the knees so he will walk with the help of braces. Time will tell if the braces are at his thighs or hip. The strength in his legs will be the deciding factor. At any rate Ethan has God, parents and a large loving family to give him all the support he will need. I am so blessed to call him my grandson and I look forward to every step he takes in his life......

Actually, I am looking forward to every step the three take, together!

Fondly,

Carrie

Simply Springs Poetic

2009-03-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

I come to you with a report just in from this clever blogger. http://simplythisthatandtheother.blogspot.com/

Sharpen you poetic skills and you can win this:

There are simply so many useful tips on this blog, you simply must visit today.

Carrie

Reminiscing while it is storming!

2009-03-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

The weather has taken a turn. It is blowing and very rainy...... So I made french toast with scrambled eggs and sausage for breakfast. Watched a couple early episodes of MASH. It is such a strange weather day and I can not stay focused. I went up to my attic and found a good distraction. I think I made this in about 1990, do you remember the fabric covered box days. They came in many shapes, I made them for the quilt shop I worked at, The Quilt Patch, in Eugene, Oregon. I made them until I was sick of them. Then this pattern came in and I had to make one. This six sided box has pockets made from 4inch blocks, and pin saver and pin cushion.
Doily decoration on top with buttons, sad, my attempt at embellishing is blushing....
I found some interesting things in those pockets........ Did you ever use curly roving from All Cooped Up, you unbraid it and it makes a wonderful santa beard, or hair. There were some little thimble buttons and an antique singer sewing machine ornament. I have no idea what I was going to use them for, I wonder if they were for this box or just for someday?

This zipper pouch is so old it is dry and brittle. Inside I found my very original Bi-Mart card...lol...... a piece of beeswax for my handquilting. A needle case I made, a bonnet with homespun bill. The hat holds a thimble and thread, very cute. But see the little tag... A closer look, That little tag was the label for a quilters dream craft show. College Hill Quiltworks. Judy transformed her charming home four times a year, into vintage quilt shopping extravaganza. Antique quilts, pillows, pictures, animals, ornaments all made from quilts. Floral arrangements, sprays and wreaths. Stitcheries.... well I have never been to another event as wonderful as Judy's. I do have a few wonderful items that I protect dearly from my GWP's, they can destuff anything faster than you can blink, my ceilings and furniture are not high enough for them to be safe.
And inside, man oh man....... little sample bags of fiberfill, from where tho...... lots of roving, cording leftover from the box making days. I remember a local gal coming in and selling wool in bags. More perfect beards or just for collecting in a box like this. A bag of triangles, hmm... what were they for.

Peeking inside the box I see rulers, very cute heart mini quilt hangers, and a creel? OK!

And a whole array of small quilting stencils, OK....I knew I had these somewhere..... I love buying stencils and knew there were some somewhere..... Oh I really liked the sunflower stencil, I bought it twice....Gee like that never happened before.....

AHA........Now I new I was not going crazy..... I have been looking for the small rotary cutter that I knew I had purchased. It was along time ago and I just knew I remembered buying one.....see there proof.... But where the H.....is it!

Oh thank you if you are still here for goodness sakes....... I am going to try to go be productive and put all this stuff away.... I think I will leave it in the box because if I don't I will never find it again. I am going to be thinking of a way to store my stencils so I will have them all in one space. I love looking through them as much as old magazines...

Wishing all of you a happy stormy Sunday!

Carrie

Keeping Busy waiting for Spring

2009-03-13T00:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I spent time at the Sportsman Show. Our dog club has a booth where we promote our club and pointing breeds. It is always fun, my girlfriend Sandy, and I have volunteered together covering Thursday and Friday afternoons.

This year I took our youngest GWP, Casey, with me. Mark, a wonderful companion of Sandy's, was there also. Casey is 10 months old and socializing young dogs with strange dogs is very important.

Casey is a little character, kind of a little teenager that thinks the world is all about him!

Slide Girl came to the show with DH in the evening. We spend a lot of time with our dogs, they have become a big part of our lives. We have met many people through our activities with our dogs, the field trial season starts in April. I will share some highlights of events we attend. I don't know what the economy will hold for these events this year but we are hopeful for everyone involved.

I received a call from my son in Omaha this week. The Proulx family is coming out in July for a visit. I think they are going to drive with the boys. A flight with three boys and all the gear just isn't appealing to them. Any way you travel with triplet babies is going to be an adventure. I just know I am so looking forward to there visit. There birthday is late July but I think a birthday celebration will be one big event while they visit.

They took family pictures this winter, they look great! What a challenge to get everyone just so, and as long as mom and dad are good, I think everything is perfect!

Some fun quilting stuff came in the mail this week. A new pattern from Fig Tree Quilts, Joanna says the zipper is easy. It has been a very long time since I put a zipper in, I don't even want to count the years. Little Purseletes, don't you think they will make cute little gifts. I want to make them for the girls.

Fresh Vintage, this publication is full of ideas and Fig Trees newest fabric line, Patisseries. There is a tip on a new notion that I was tickled to try myself. It is the Clover Fabric Folding Pen. It is a refillable pen that Joanna filled up with liquid starch for all the applique projects.

You can draw the starch onto the seam allowance instead of painting it on. Thanks Joanna for this new gadget tip!! Along with the pattern featured on the cover is a laptop bag. Joanna's fabrics really appeal to my softer palette side. Mostly my fabrics and home decorating are primitive, Fig Tree's Vintage look satisfies too.

I participated in a fat quarter swap, I received two beautiful bright spring FQ pieces from Carla, I just love them. Thanks Carla, I will use them in a project and post it.

I made a lot of these hour glass blocks up for my JLW class. Class is next week so I am ready to go.

Block 5 from Wool Garden came in this week, I have the block prepped and ready to stitch up. This pictures is pathetic, no color and so wrinkled. It is much prettier than this picture looks.
We are having some fairer weather this week, my son is coming over to help with a pathway in my garden. Moles were very destructive to it and my plants last fall so we are under construction. Its the only construction project in Central Oregon that I know of actually. LOL...well lets not talk economy! LOl.......

Have a great weekend and a terrific Friday the 13th!!!

Next week is St. Patricks day, I need to go find me some Shamrocks!!!

God Bless each of you!

Carrie

BOYS IN THE BAND

2009-03-04T10:59:00.000-08:00

Last Friday we went to Eugene to watch our oldest Grandson, Tylor, play his first guitar recital.

What a blast, Ty played lead guitar, a Nirvana song, Man Who Sold the World. He was soooo nervous, man oh man..... I'm just saying...white lips... in these times you want to say just the right thing to help them relax and enjoy the moment. I know nothing said will change things, only the experience gained will help this feeling. I believe Ty enjoyed it very much...he had such a relaxed cute smile after it was all over.
It was such an experience to see Ty playing along with a complete band. When he was finished other students and his instructor, who played along with him, were so encouraging. It was good to see, Joe and I were so appreciative that we could be there and share it with Ty.

I was impressed with the goodwill from his fellow students, one was a young man, our age, lol.....who performed on the drums the same song Ty performed.

We went to Cold Stone Ice Cream afterwards and celebrated a very fun time.

Now on to my youngest grandsons, the three amigos in Omaha.......... Boy oh Boy their smiles are just what the doctor would order for me anyday. Hayden, who is just the cutest package on earth......has the longest eyelashes, both mom and dad have long eyelashes.....

Ethan can take center of attention with his character and funny personality. He just cracks me up, I could share more pictures of this expression, maybe a video would be good. I especially love his shirt. Joe's Delivery Co. that's grandpas name and that is his job......

Jaxon loves his new play ride... its not a bouncy ride like his other playset but this expression is one of my favorites. See......I have said this before....I want to know what he is thinkin..... I know its all good..... I sewed up a little table runner from JLW, these three blocks are from Jo Morton's Prairie Flower. Working with wool is always enjoyable for me, I wasn't sure about the sashing border fabric at first, but after getting it together I liked it.

I have been sewing on my many BOM projects, they are keeping me well entertained this winter, I am ready to get outside and enjoy some gardening........ but not just yet.....we are still having snow flurries and it is cold. So sewing it is and I have enough to keep me busy.

I am working on prepping my Birds of a Feather using the starch method. I think it will take me a week to get it prepped......LOL....I am a slowpoke when learning a new technique. I will show it when its finished.

Best wishes to all of you...

Carrie

A Few Little Things

2009-02-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

My Meg's Baskets, JLW quilt is ready to quilt. I am going to hand quilt this top. It is a perfect size for me, perfect in that it won't take longer than my attention span, I think!
Discipline, staying on one track, finishing what I begin. These are the sticky notes that should be on my computer to keep me from starting something new. Not as a grudge note, but because I LOVE to finish. I am just not disciplined enough to avoid being sidetracked. One confession is enough for today.

Wednesday evening was my JLW group meeting and a few gals used the colorful basket fabric as their background fabric in the sawtooth border. SO CUTE!! This is going to be a fun class, lots of sharing from each other about techniques. I love that about quilters, even if you don't use the technique right now, it may be useful at some point.
I received a couple comments about the HST technique, getting 8 out of the larger square. So I googled and found a website that I want to share.
http://www.patchwork-and-quilting.com/grid-pieced-half-square-triangles.html
Ta-Da.... it has so many techniques that I have saved it in my favorite places.

This months JLW8 project is starting a 4 month quilt, Holiday Inn. A medallion quilt that I think is so sparkly with color. Gail added some new backgrounds and colors, we will use leftover reds from Meg's Baskets too. The border is hour-glass blocks.

Timing is everything you know, I received an email newsletter from Marsha McCloskey, she shared a blog that has a tutorial on her precision ruler that you use for this exact block (hourglass). So here is that blog post: http://sisterschoice.typepad.com/sisters_choice_quilts/2009/02/you-simply-must-trim.html I marked her blog as a favorite too. She has a very cute dog Sophie, wonderful Batik quilts.................now you see why I need that post-it note on my computer to stay on track. There are so many wonderful sites to explore and get very useful info.
Block #2, A Tisket, A Tasket BOM with Anne Sutton. Anne has a tutorial on embroidery on her blog that I found helpful. I will start using a hoop and foundation to keep my background from puckering. :)) Oops! Those cute little birds need eyes and beaks...
Block #4 from Wool Garden with Farmhouse Woolens, I really like the colors in this block, the red is bright and rich. The colors of the geranium really bring out the colors in the basket wool.

Next month I will put them all together for a picture, I look forward to having this quilt on my wall.

We have been having a pretty mild winter this last month, as much as I like it I know we need more snow for snow pack. Which gives us much needed water in the rivers. Fires are a big hazard in Central Oregon so hopefully we will have a bit more winter-like weather. Its Friday so I am going to wish all of you a wonderful weekend.

Winter Blessings, Carrie

New News is Old News!!

2009-02-17T11:38:00.000-08:00

" New news is old news to new people!"

Perfect!! Listening to a morning inspirational speaker I got (stole) my title to this post. LOl... really perfect but quilting was not the topic, oh well, it is what I have been thinking about as I waited for these pictures to upload. I have been thinking, this is old news Carrie. The old technique to do half square triangle was really not enjoyable to me so I just started avoiding fun little projects like this one. This is project #1 for JLW 8 group that I joined. I sewed on it this weekend while DH was in Portland.

I could have gone to Portland too, I was tempted. Anne there are FOUR Panera's in Portland. And all those quilt shops I could have gone to see, be tempted to buy more fabric, find new wool pieces to add to my stash! Or I could stay home and sew. I do love staying home and sewing.

Did I ever mention I have a roommate in my sewing room. Yes I do, call me crazy or cranky!!!

But we put my DH's antique roll top desk in my sewing room. Oh.....a story for later. But I stayed home and sewed ALONE in my sewing room....on Meg's Baskets!

These next pictures are of a easy way to make half square triangles that I found enjoyable. I really like that you don't cut large pieces of fabric in bias strips, leaving strange pieces to work with. Two 2 inch squares, right sides together, rst, draw a line from corner to corner.
Sew your "scant" 1/4 inch seam allowance on each side of the drawn line.

Then you cut them in half on the drawn line.

Press them open, and trim to make them 1 1/2 inch squares.

Do this with the many sets you have prepared according to instructions, sew them together and this is what you have. Cute little 4 inch baskets set on point. Next......Trying out this Clover chalk marker, I will mark lines from corner to corner both directions. Making an X. I really did like the way this marker moved over the fabric, my pencil lead was fatter and caught on the threads. This marker is finer and moves smoother across the fabric.
This time you sew on both sides of both lines, same scant 1/4 inch.
It lays pretty flat, not much distortion.

Cut apart by starting through the middle, then corner to corner on the diagonal. These are 4 inch pieces, I used my ruler with 1/8 markings and made sure the fabric was square before starting my cutting. I was very pleased with this method.

I sewed up 9 squares giving my 72 half square triangles ready to do the sawtooth border around my baskets. I pressed them open and will trim the to 1/1/2 inch. Very fast and not any strange shaped pieces of fabric leftover.

Monday the lqs was having a President's Day Sale so I didn't need to go to Portland to be tempted. I bought this book to give me some tips on my BOM Birds of a Feather. It was printed in 2002, but hey its new to me so it fits right into this post. And some fabric glue thatI will use to hold pieces in place. I liked the fine tip on this bottle. Thank goodness for 20% off sale, they don't give this glue away , but I think it will last for as long as I have need for it.

I have been stitching on A Tisket, A Tasket BOM, and Wool Garden BOM from Farmhouse Woolens. These are two very enjoyable projects, I love the artists expressions in them. My DH even commented on this months Wool Garden block, he loved the color selections of the wools. He is my go to guy when I am choosing borders and color selections. And since he is my new roomy, he is handier then ever. But guess what DH the rug stays!!!! Give them an inch and they start redecorating your sewing room. LOL.....

Winter Blessing to you all!

Carrie

Family and Quilt Shop Visit

2009-02-08T18:34:00.000-08:00

Seems like I should have alot to tell about since I haven't posted in two weeks. I must be spinning my wheels and doing this and that and not getting much done. No finished projects to show and tell about.
But we did get away for a couple days and I visited one of my favorite quilt shops. Something to Crow About in Springfield, Oregon. My MIL lives their too, with Joe's brother. Boots is having a hard go of it in 2009, her second visit to the hospital, first a mild heart attack and now Pneumonia. We are hoping she is mending, even if it is slowly, and will be feeling better soon. We have some big family plans coming this summer so we are wanting her healthy and feeling great. My nephew is getting married and the triplets, with mom and dad, of course are coming to Oregon for a visit.

Something to Crow About is nestled in a small strip mall, if you didn't know about it you would probably miss it. It is one I really enjoy, folky, chickeny, woolie, friendly...... I did get pictures!
From the outside, well lets say not alot of street appeal, but don't judge a book by its cover.....

Inside makes up for the winter blahs for color, creativity and talent.

Like their name they are in to Chickens, and I am too so I love seeing whats new in Chicken. This is a fun patriotic chicken.

They have a nice variety of civil war fabrics.
Lots of fun signs, and wool quilts.

Now this sign I would love to put on my Chicken Coop!

Their were these prim cats, chickens that were new to me. Patterns by "Sweet Prims" a company with stitchery patterns called "Sweet Gatherings". I have seen the stitchery patterns for many years but these next pictures show some of their prim patterns.

Isn't this guy fun, I love the eyelids, even on the bird. I want to make this guy up, even though doll making is my weakest art form. I get the arm on backwards and everything. Not fun to take apart a sherpa bear with backwards arms. LOL....

And these next two chickens are so cute.

Especially this polka dot chicken. Love it !!!

This cute stool cover was in the bathroom, simply made but so cute with the pennies.

This wool piece was so cool. The cat is so creative and there are many beads and other details that give it so much charm. Don't you just love this big basket of flowers, you could make it out of the flowers that grow in your yard, and the tongues around the edge make such a cute borders.
Now this is sad, look at my purchases, after all that I I walked out with some green wool, aged muslin and 3 patterns. They showed some stitchery on pillow cases and I am going to do some on Christmas pillow for next year. Love the gingerbread, and the snowman in the bowl. This little penny rug with the chick and egg yolks on the tongues was made up and so cute. I surprised I didn't get a picture of it. My BOM Sheep in the Willow is using the aged muslin so I purchased half yards to try on other projects.

I am working on block #2 of A Tisket, A Tasket , Sheep in the Willows and my log cabin quilt. I have picked my border fabric, it was my second choice, #1 is long gone so I am going to dye it with rit tan #12. It is more gold than I want, so I am going to test out a strip trying for a taupe color. I am going to applique a vine with leaves, berries and stars on the border.

When I get my blocks done I will post them.

I have been visiting and see many of you have your BOM #2 ATisket, A Tasket completed. I am so impressed with how adorable they all are......don't you just love Anne's creativity. I am going to stitch up a redwork block in my spare time.......I just want to do it all!!!

The weather is calling for a bit of snow, we will see, it sure has gotten cold. We went out to the grasslands for some dog training on horseback, I stayed in the trailer and knitted. lol.... Poor DH about froze in the 28 degrees and fog. It was 45 degrees at home when we left. The dogs loved it though and Pilgrim our TWH got some much needed exercise.

I am hoping for an early spring even though we need the snow!

God Bless and keep you,

Carrie

Visiting with the Triplets, Wool Quilts

2009-01-26T15:20:00.000-08:00

I left on a jet plane January 15, bound for Omaha, Nebraska home of my three little bundles of Joy. I wanted to go in December but I am glad I waited with all the bad winter weather, airport delays, it really worked out better all the way around.
I always like things I look forward to, to be in the future instead of the past. I love memories but being in the moment is the best! A week can go by so fast. I shared with my son that I took my shoes off Thursday evening and didn't put them back on until the following Wednesday when I left for the airport. LOL.... Actually, I never left the house.
First, I want you to see the blocks Kindra made, so cutely displayed on their mantle. Thank you Kindra, I love the way they came out.

Here we are getting ready to get off to the airport, my little guys have been very sick the entire week. They have the Rotavirus, I think it is shortened for Roto-Rooter virus personally, the worst diarrhea I can ever remember. And the smell, whooooo....lets not go there...... the nurses say the smell is one way to distinguish it from other reasons for diarrhea, whatever, not for sissy's to be sure!! I am adding here after I posted that I read today that one of the goals of the " Gates Foundation includes improving global health by reducing childhood deaths from rotavirus in half. " After my week with the boys I have a new appreciation for the philanthropic efforts on behalf of the foundation

Jaxon had it the week before I came and Hayden was just getting sick, Ethan came along 4 days later. We were really hoping Ethan would not get sick. But alas, all did get it. I can tell you I was very nervous the last two days there, I was not wanting to have those symptoms for my trip home. Thank Goodness I didn't!!! Here are a couple before the bug pictures that Krista shared, it wasn't a trip where alot of pictures were taken. I'm sure you can appreciate why!

This happy picture is small, sorry, I am no techy, they come as they are!!! But they are all smiles.

They are rolling over from their tummy to their back, and so close to going back to their tummies!
I really like this picture, Hayden is in the middle with Ethan, left and Jaxon, right. They each have their own little personality and Hayden is shorter. Jaxon looks so big!
Jaxon has some important things to share with Ethan. Tummy time together was put on hold for the time I was there. We tried to keep Ethan from getting sick but in the end he got it too!

Jaxon was feeling better and Krista wanted to try some rice cereal, Yeah! I got to be there when this First Time event happened. He didn't mind, but it will take some time getting the tongue trained. LOL......

I just have to share this photo, what are Always Pads in the changing area for, you ask? And the larger overnight extra protection diapers? Well, back to the diarrhea, Ethan, bless his poor little bottom, had diarrhea so bad we couldn't keep anything where we wanted it. Oh! My! Lets just say we were trying!!!! You know the saying "pulling out all stops" Yes it was!!!

But......on to better topics...... Pictures tell a good story......and I wanted the boys to know that they were there when the first African American President was Inaugurated!! So we took pictures of them playing on the floor, and in the seats..... they like the time together, the facts were not important to them, but it will be good for their memory book. Kinda like "You Were There".
Wednesday morning Jaxon was feeling pretty good and Hayden was almost ready to be over the hump, we had a nice play time together......they are getting so fun and interactive. They know when you move away and go to help there brother, hmmmm.... giving that little cry demanding your attention back on them. Yes, they were not feeling great but better for sure!!
Jaxon gives this little expression alot, I have some Grandma studying to do with this little guy to really figure out what he is thinking!! He holds that smile back as long as possible then gives you a little shy smile. Be still my heart,.... if he isn't a charmer!

Oh, I think he is just a little sad to see his Oregon Grandma go for now, well that is what I will tell myself anyway because I sure feel sad leaving!!

But waiting back home for me besides my DH and five tail-wagging Wirehairs! It's Farmhouse Woolens BOM #3. Yes, Sunflowers are one of my favorite flowers, because I can grow them from seeds, they come in all colors and sizes. And it is a wool BOM that makes it even better. I love the wool Karen chose for every part of this block. The seeds in the flower could not be more perfect. It is fast to work up too. This month I used freezer paper for the vase and star, and Steam A Seam 2 for the flowers and leaves. Anne, of Cotton's N Wools is doing a tutorial this month on working with wool. Go over and see, wool is fun to with.

I have been in the straightening up mode in the sewing room. My wool was just to hard to see down in the basket. I took it all out and put my basket on its side and put the wool back in. Now I can see most everything, at least the biggest part. My market basket is full of solids and I organized it by color, shades and hues. I noticed that price tags were on alot of bundles and pieces. Oh My, I think I have invested pretty well, LOL..... but I have spread the wealth around to quite a few shops, so if nothing else I have enough to keep me happy for a bit. That is if I can stand to cut them up when the time comes. But it does feel good to get the cupboards organized.
I do have a project in mind for some of the bundle rolls, and getting them organized has me inspired to get my pattern ready.

I will need twenty fat quarters and that is why I purchased the rolls from the Buggy Barn.

It is this Wool Stars quilt in there book "Gone Crazy". It is just scrumptious and calling my name this very cold winter. Before I get to cutting fabric I have a challenge to keep with my BoM that I have started. I have a couple blocks to complete and then one day in February this will get underway. Until then I can look at my wools and they will be my motivation.

There is so much going on out there in blogland, I have not been able to check up on everyone. We lost our highspeed internet and dial-up doesn't like alot of pictures. We are up an going again so I need to see what Linda is saying about her home being featured in Country Sampler Magazine.

And Kindra's blocks are there in her kitchen window. Oh, and I did see Picket's painted kitchen, man she is one talented gal. My husband gasped when I showed him that, I think he thought I wanted to paint my kitchen. No, just the entryway and Master Bedroom. Teeheee........ This blogging thing is very inspiring!!!

Winter blessings!

Carrie