A Crafty Moment

Love, Love, Love Them

2011-02-25T09:43:00.000-08:00

My husband went to the post office to pick up our mail and walks in with a package for me from my "secret" Mug Rug Swap partner. OMG, I was so happy when I saw what she made for me. Check them out!!!

"Heart" Mug Rugs....so cute!!

I know I'm excited, but you've got to understand that I've been sick in bed all week and opening the box was such a treat. Not only did she send me the rugs but she included a Tea Towel, some Bath and Body hand soap, some candy and a sweet note.

Thank you Mary Pat for your generous package and lovely
Mug Rugs.
These are my first rugs and believe me I will be using them. I really like the pattern and if you don't mind, I'm gonna copy your design idea and make some in different colors. Thanks again for making my day.

A little Sunshine Would Be Nice

2011-02-24T22:11:00.000-08:00

I've had enough of this weather. I live in the desert and the winds, rain and snow have interrupted our plans for the past few weeks. Who isn't ready for Spring....a little sunshine would be nice. I'm home, sick, and even more annoyed because now I'm really forced to stay indoors until I get better and what does the weather channel say -- "snow".
Are you feeling my frustration! Sorry, I've been in bed with the flu since Saturday and just a bit out of my wits now. I've spent some time redoing a few thing on my blog and adding my own button (it took me forever to do but I finally got it). Hopefully by tomorrow I'll feel good enough to take some photos of a few projects to share and be able to work on some also.

Word of The Year "Stitch"

2011-01-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

Kelly over at Charming Chatter came up with a great idea to have a theme word for the year. Almost immediately the word that came to mind was "Stitch". I selected this simply because that's exactly what I need to focus on to get me into my sewing room again. Last year, for some reason or another, I just couldn't set aside enough time for myself. So, my focus will be to "stitch". Maybe I can get my creative edge going again and do what I love to do....sew!

Happy New Year!

Love the Holidays!

2010-12-05T00:19:00.000-08:00

I love the holiday season and all it represents. It's amazing to me to just sit and watch our family and loved ones share their love for one another and reminish on old times and the fond memories they have of growing up. We are truly blessed with so much to be grateful for. I am definitely thankful for all our blessings and for a family that enjoys spending time together. It's the little things that make the season special and that bring joy to my heart. May your Christmas holiday be bright, cheerful and filled with love.

God Bless.

Hello Fellow Bloggers

2010-07-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a great 4th of July. Gosh how time flies...I've been MIA for so long I don't even know where to start. First, I must say that most of all I've missed having the time to visit everyone's blog and keep up on all your latest projects. So in the next few days I plan to visit and see what everyone's up to.

Though I wasn't keeping up with my blogging I did manage to get some sewing done. I made a puzzle quilt for my grand-daughter who graduated from High School a couple of weeks ago. When I decided on this pattern I had no idea it would be such a tidious task with so much planning. In the end it turned out beautiful. My grand-daughter was so pleased. I also made a charity quilt for one of our local adult care centers. Myself and a number of other ladies were able to make about 15 quilts for them...they were so appreciative.

Take care and God Bless!

February Comes to an End

2010-02-27T14:56:00.000-08:00

All I got done this month was finishing the Elephant Mini and making a tote for myself. I missed two of my classes due to illness and again found myself with little time to do what I love....sew.

I spent two days in the hospital running tests due to an irregularity with my heart. Turns out I have a defect in my left ventricular branch. I'm working on bringing my blood pressure down and changing my diet to help with this and of course trying to fit in a little exercise. The weather has been either too cold or too windy and the fact that my back has also been killing me hasn't helped much. The "stress" of all the lay-offs and pink slips being handed out because of our poor education budget has made us all tense. Somehow, slowly taking it's toll on me and all those I work with over the last few months.

Some of us escaped being pink slipped for this first round, me included. However, those of us who were spared are feeling a bit of survivors guilt. We're just sick over the the number of staff (15) we'll be losing, especially the fact that they are really talented educators. There is so little we feel we can do when they say there is no money to fund the necessities of education. What a sad state we are in.

Anyway, back to sewing projects and a not so bitter subject. I plan to work on a puzzle quilt for my grandaughter who will be graduating this June. She like brights, like yellow, green, blue and orange. I looked through my stash and didn't find many suitable brights so I'll have to the fabric store (yippee) and look for a dozen or so fat quarters for this project. I'm looking forward to it and just getting back to my sewing machine.

Valentine Mini

2010-02-13T12:32:00.000-08:00

I Need your vote. I entered my Valentine mini "Sweet Love" in the Quilting Gallery Valentine Contest. Please take a minute to hop on over and vote for me. I sure would appreciate your support. Click on the link and scroll down to Valentine Contest bar to post your vote.

(It's the mini in the Feb 6th post below. For some reason the photo won't upload right now.)

Have a great Valentine's Day!

Cora

Blue Elephant

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

The "Blue Elephant" is finished!! First project down on my CGGQC list of things I need to finish in February. Making these mini quilts is so much fun. You might remember that I made a pink one for one of my instructors and then decided to make one for myself because I liked it so much. I think it's really cute. I plan to hang it in my guest bedroom.

Next project to tackle is the purple Half-pint quilt top. Just need to add the batting, back fabric and then machine quilt.

Enjoy your week!!

Sew Day Today

2010-02-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

So excited to have a three day weekend. Having an extra day gives me the time to do a little extra sewing. Last night and this morning I worked on this small Valentine table topper for my buffet table. The hearts are appliqued on and machine quilted. I just love it; the bright pinks look so cute!

The rain is coming down really hard today and the news says that by tonight we should have snow at 4000 ft (we'll see). I just love the rain. Today, I'll stay in and sew with the company of two of my grandson's who didn't want to go home last night after dinner. One is 5 and the other 4 yrs old and they enjoy playing in my sewing room and hoping that everything I make is for them.

I've got to work on those February CGandGQC projects. I hope to do some blog hopping too!

February Projects for the CG&GQC

2010-02-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

One of my February projects will be to complete the purple Half-Pint quilt. I'm embarrassed to admit that I put the top aside and didn't finish it. I really liked it but didn't know who I'd give it to so I just put it away for a while. Now I know just who I'll complete it for. That special little girl loves purple and she'll be excited to receive it.

I'd also like to finish the blue elephant mini and a sampler quilt top that I'll be starting in my class next week. I've also been working on some paper piecing crazy quilt blocks from fabric in my scrap bag and plan to get several more of them done (I've got four blocks complete now).

Just typing this list sounds pretty ambitious to me since I haven't been sewing much. I really need a jump start again after the Valentine Sewing Party. Visiting your blogs and seeing your projects is something I look forward too

Valentine "Sewing Party"

2010-01-23T10:10:00.000-08:00

Yay!! It's finished. I couldn't relax until it was complete. I decided to machine stitch the binding on and it turned out great. It was a long day, but worth the fun. I also was able to finish 4 treat bags. The rest are cut out and just need to be sewn. I'll save that for later or maybe tomorrow. Good Nite ladies. It sure was a great bash!!

It's 6:15 pm and the quilting is done. Now all that's left to do is the binding. In a couple of hours I'll be watching my grandsons and plan to get the hand stitching of the binding finished. It 's been a busy, but extremely fun day sewing with you all. I've visited alot of your blogs and have enjoyed your lovely projects. Thank you all for your comments and encouragement along the way! See you guys at the next Party!!!

It's a little after 5pm now and I've attached the border and sandwiched the batting and back fabric together. I've begun the quilting on the heart and I'm just about done with that. Still need to quilt on the white background.

Finally the top is done (it measures 19"x 17.5" right now). The pinning, pressing and lining up of each of these rows seemed to take forever, well it's complete now. It's now 2pm and I'm really hungry. Gonna have some hot dogs, pasta salad and a drink and get back to sewing. (Photo not loading right now???) Had lunch and came to try again and the photo loaded. Guess I just needed to eat something.

I did some blog hopping and you ladies have some really great projects going. This is so much fun!

It's 11:30 and this is my progress so far. I'm off to visit some blogs, socialize for a bit than return to sewing this together and designing the borders.

This Valentine "Sewing Party" with Kelly, Joan and all you gals is going to be fun. My first project for today is a heart wall hanging. Here's a photo of the fabric I'll be using. I still need to cut the background fabric and sew it together.

My second project is some small treat bags. See photo of one I've sewn together. I'm planning to make a couple of dozen of these.

I'm looking forward to visiting you all and seeing your projects.
Off to Sew!!

Resting and Reminising

2010-01-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

Today was spend in bed with a kink in my back and my neck. I decided to try and update my Facebook and to be honest just try and figure it out. The whole thing about sharing everything with the world was a little intimidating, come to find out with a few clicks I just share what I want and with who I want. Whew!! I don't know why I was so intimidated by it. All the family is on sharing away and I was afraid to say much (who knows why).

Anyway, before long I was chating along with my niece and we started talking about music and what songs remind of us who. Boy did we go back to my Mom and her mom and my sisters and what songs reminded us of certain people, friends and events. The list of songs was getting pretty long as you can imagine.

Music from certain times in our lives is one of those things that you always remember. I'll share with you all that a song by Ray Charles "It's crying time again" reminds me of my Mom.

Mel and I got to thinking that this was a good topic for a blog post since we like music so much, we wondered what songs bought you all fond memories.

If you'd like, feel free to post a comment with the title of a song that takes you back to a fond memory. We'd like to go back with you and remember where we heard it for the first time, or for a moment think of the person that it reminds us of. And, if by chance it's a song we've never heard before, you'll be exposing us to something new. We look forward to hearing from you all. This could be quite fun and a nice way to remember some old friends in the new year!!

I hope Mel doesn't mind but she shared that "Going to the Chapel" reminded her of a wedding she was in where she and all the bridesmaids sang this song to the bride on the way to the church.

It's Snowing here!!

2010-01-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

So much to 70 degree weather here last week. It's been raining for three days now and it finally started snowing. When I left work it was raining pretty hard and I was just hoping to make it home safely and just a mile from home it started snowing. I sure hope the snow sticks so we can have a snow day tomorrow. I can think of a few things I'd like to start sewing.

We had about a foot or two of snow last year in December and we didn't expect to have any this year but you never know. Most of the time we just get a few flurrys and not much more but it sure looks and feels like were going to get a bit more through the evening. Anyway, I'm gonna hope for a snow day.

The book I got the elephant pattern out of is called Great Little Quilts by Eleanor Levie. Click on the link if you are interested. The book has 45 Antique Crib and Doll size quilts with all the patterns and directions to make them. There are some really cute one's in the book. I think it's a good book to have in your collection for inspiration.

Creative Anticipation

2010-01-19T22:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! The hectic schedule of the holidays, visiting with friends and family, cooking, shopping and baking, is slowing down for me and hopefully for all of you. I'm so looking forward to getting back to my sewing room and creating some fun projects and also getting back to blogging and visiting all of you.

In the little time I've had to sew I've been working on two Elephant wall hangings (1930 reproductions). I made the pink one for the instructor of my quilting class. She really likes elephants so I know she'll love it.

Sometime in October or November I bought this book on antiques quilts and when I saw the elephant one I thought of her and decided to make it to surprise her. She is such a sweet lady and always goes out of her way to find a pattern or technique for us to use. I can't wait till the semester starts in February to present it to her. I had fun making it for her and decided to make one for myself so I started one and hope to get it finished in the next few days.

Today a had some time to visit Kelly's blog to catch up on what the CGQC was up too since I've been out of the loop for the past month and was so excited to see all the finished projects of the club members and to learn that they will be having a Valentine sew along next weekend. So, I guess I'll be joining in and making a few Valentine projects and planning my projects for February. I'm also looking forward to visiting all of your blogs and to see what new things you all have planned for the new year.

One more thing, I just wanted to say that since I started my blog last June I've met some really nice, fun and extremely creative people on line and I want you all to know that you are one of the things I am thankful for in the new year and I look forward to sharing and learning from each of you. God Bless!!

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-20T17:47:00.000-08:00

I know it appears that I abandoned my blog, but that's not so. I've been really busy with work and classes. Just like the rest of you, I've been sewing every chance I get and preparing for the holidays!

My CGQC "Secret Santa" gift is in the mail to my secret partner, I just hope she gets it before Christmas.

I want to share something really fun that I recently learned. Have you all seen or heard of tube blocks? I was introduced to the technique by my class instructor who was also nice enough to give me this link to view the tutorial. Check it out. It's a quick way to put together some really fun projects. We made table runners, another made a queen size quilt practically over night using this technique.

Everyone who tries it gets really excited about the technique and the outcome of the blocks. Check out her whole blog, she's got a giveaway going on too for a fabulous looking apron.

I'll be taking a short trip to Las Vegas and returning just before Christmas. All the family will be spending the holiday week at my house so I probably won't be posting till after the New Year so may you all have a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!!

Star Block Exchange

2009-11-29T13:36:00.000-08:00

I'm back from a long Thanksgiving week out of town visiting friends and family. I hope you all had a great time with family enjoying your thanksgiving feast...we sure did.

I wanted to share with you all the fabulous blocks I received from the star block exchange I told you about several weeks ago. I just got them and each and everyone of them is unique!

The exchange was from the quilting class I take at the local college. Many of these ladies are so talented and put together some really lovely quilts every week. I can't wait to put these blocks together into a nice Christmas quilt for next year. Each block is 12x12 and I received 19 blocks so it's going to either be a really big quilt or a couple of lap quilts.

Several of the ladies have put together their blocks from last years exchange and boy are they beautiful. I didn't have my camera on the day they bought them in so I don't have a photo to share of their finished quilts which were so lovely -- you'd really have to see them to know what I mean. The fancy borders and the sashing they used really did accent each of the blocks.

I hope you enjoy them I much as I do. I wonder do you have a favorite? My favorite is the gold one with the maroon star (top left on the third photo).

Preparing for the Holidays

2009-11-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

Nearing the holidays just makes us all so busy making plans, decorating, cooking and, of course, making our holiday gifts. The CGQC half-pint quilt along is one of the things I've been working on and haven't posted my latest results so here is a picture of the finished quilt top I don't think I'm going to get it finished soon though.

Here's a photo of a finished pillow sham I made from the project idea posted on cluck cluck sew.

I've got a lot of other projects that are gifts so I can't put the photos up and I'm still working on my queen sized Trip quilt that I'll post a photo on next week.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!! Enjoy your family and the great Thanksgiving feast. God Bless!!

Origami Drawstring Bag

2009-11-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd share this photo of these two little origami drawstring bags. Aren't they cute!! They are so easy and fun to make and make wonderful gifts. They are also great to make for weddings and special occasions when you need a small coordinating handbag. Depending on the fabric you select they can look really elegant and dressy.

I make them to use for my embroidery supplies, or to tote threads, scissors, presser feet, etc. to class or to sewing group get togethers.

They require two pieces of fabric 18" x 18" and are quick to make. If you
are interested in the how to instructions, just leave me a note in the comments and I'll be happy to send them to you.

They'd be great in Christmas fabric too...filled with a little treat or surprise.

Thank Those Who Have Served Our Country

2009-11-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

Many of us have the day off today to honor those who have served in the military to protect our country. Today, I am remembering family and friends who have given of themselves to protect us, our country, and our safety.

Both by Dad and my Brother served in the Army and have since passed, nonetheless, they are in my heart today. Both were strong believers in supporting our country at whatever cost. They set the example; I have four other family members serving in the Army and in the Navy that I want to also recognize and give thanks to them for their service.

Take a moment today to honor those around you who have served to protect this country. Without them, our freedom would be compromised.

Have a great Veteran's Day and may God bless and take care of all those who serve and protect us.

Anniversary Giveaway

2009-11-08T21:18:00.001-08:00

Pinelands Patches and beadscapes is having an Anniversary Giveaway to celebrate her 1 year anniversary of blogging. Click here to enter. Giveaways are so much fun!!! Go check out her blog, she has some really great stuff.

Autumn Jack Arrived

2009-11-02T18:59:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting with anticipation for this "Autumn Jack" mini-quilt to arrive. I was so excited to find it in my mail box today. What a surprise it was to open and finally see it. It's a really cute 12" x 12" mini just perfect to display for the season.

All of us participating in the exchange through the CGQC have been anxious for the end of the month to get here so we could see our exchange quilt and all the others that were done.

Thank you Susan, my anticpation was worth the wait. The "mini" is really cute.

Applique Wall Hangings....Photo Sharing

2009-10-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

A very talented lady named CeCe in my quilting group made these lovely wall hanging for her daughters. The theme has to do with the sorority they were in and the sorority's history. Click on the photos to enlarge them and to see the beautiful job she did. The photos don't do them justice at all, nor do they show the detail she put into them.

This is another one she made, also in applique, that is just gorgeous. She meticulously hand stitches around all the applique for added detail. I love the technique she uses -- she's a very talented lady!

Half-Pint Quilt Top Complete

2009-10-28T20:23:00.001-07:00

I had some catching up to do and guess what? I made it. Here's a photo of the strips. I was rushing to catch up and didn't take photos of the nine-patches. The photo isn't very good and doesn't show the colors well. I used four different colors in purples and lavenders for this one with a deep purple background fabric. I thought I'd never finish putting those 1 1/2" squares together. Whew...it feels good to be caught up.

And here's the photo of the top all sewn together. Good luck to everyone in the quilt along. I'm looking forward to seeing all the completed tops. Thanks, again to Kelly for putting this together. I love the pattern and plan to make a larger size when I'm not so strapped to complete holiday projects.

CGQC Mini-Quilt Exchange

2009-10-23T17:42:00.001-07:00

The mini quilt for the CGQC is done. I sent it to my "secret partner" yesterday via express mail so I believe she should have gotten it today. I sure hopes she likes it and enjoys it for years to come.

The trees are 3-D flying geese and the whole project was really fun to put together. I keep checking my mail, hoping to find my mini-quilt, but so far nothing has come for me. The excitement and anticipation is killing me. Isn't it so much fun when you get a gift in the mail?? I just love it.

The deadline is October 30th and I can't wait to see all the finished mini-quilts. Check them out through Dandelion Quilts. She has a list of those participating on her side bar.

2009-10-19T22:33:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch Primatives has a fabulous giveaway only I'm not telling you what it is, you'll have to go over to her blog and see for yourself. This Halloween treat is one I sure hope turns sweet for me. So the trick is on you! LOL

Ok, I'll stop being silly or should I say selfish about it and give you the link so you too can trick or treat at her door for her fabulous giveaway. Click here to scoot on over to her blog and enter. Oh and tell her I sent you so that I get an extra chance. You won't want to miss this one!!! The more people that enter, the more prizes she'll be giving out.

Sew, Sew, Sew

2009-10-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

Today I spent my entire afternoon in the sewing room trying to knock out a few of the projects I have going. I managed to finish the 20 star-point blocks complete with embroidering my name in the center for one of my Christmas exchanges.

(?? photos are loading sideways??)

Here's a photo of them. I can't wait to get my exchange blocks. They're sure going to make a fabulous Holiday quilt.

I decided on the fabrics for the CGQC Quilt Along. I'm going to make it in various tones of purple. I got a late start but, my fabrics are cut and I'll soon get to sewing the blocks together. I'll post photos later.

I've also finished my Halloween wall hanging. Here's a photo. The grandkids just love it. It was a really fun project to make.

Another finish is my mini-quilt for the CGQC exchange. This one was pinned to my design board for a couple of week now because I couldn't decide on the border. I kept changing my mind on the fabrics and just ended up with my original choices so it got finished today. I can't wait to put it in the mail to my "secret" exchange partner. So watch your mail ladies mine will be in the mail tomorrow. Sorry I can't post a photo till my partner receives it.

I didn't expect to make such progress on my projects -- it feels pretty good.

Anyway, I've only got two more projects left for October, they are the "Trip" queen size quilt for my bed and quilting along with the CGQC on the Half-Pint Quilt along. I' got to get caught up this week. Come back and look for my progress on the Half-Pint next week.

CGQC Tag

2009-10-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

Which shoe am I is the question???
Well, since I must choose I'll have to say that I'm "The practical one". Not really my type of shoe but sure fits my personality. And the other one that fits is the young at heart. I believe that you are as young as you feel and should never dwell on your real age.

I must confess, though, I've always worn heels and on a daily basis I wear either "The Sexy One" or "The Sophisticated One" since I do dress up for work. The minute I get home I kick off my heels and throw on the slippers.

Hope this helps you get to know me.

Terry's Quilt

2009-10-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

Many of you bloggers are probably aware of the unfortunate accident that Terry's husband had recently (from Terry's Treasures).

A Yankee Quilter is putting together a care quilt for Terry and her family along with a giveaway for this Jellyroll.

To participate go over to her blog (click here) and read all the details. She's asking bloggers to send a 9 1/2" block to be included in the quilt, along with a small donation to have it quilted.

Click on over to Terry's blog to read all about what happened and the progress her husband is making. And, last but not least, keep her family in your prayers.

Quilt Along "Half-Pint"

2009-10-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm supper busy and I decided to participate in the Quilt Along with the Charming Girls Quilt Club. I so hope I can keep up. LOL

Somehow I can't seem to pass up participating in these challenges, my hubby says I like the pressure -- it motivates me I guess. Really, I just want to make everything in sight and become a great quilter like Kelly, Joan and alot of you quilters out there. I so admire the work of so many of you when I visit your blogs.

I know it will be fun and I'm really looking forward to it. I signed up to make the mini version so it won't be all that bad.

CGQC Projects for October

2009-10-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

October's here already and it's time to post my CGQC projects for the month.

My first project is a queen size quilt "round the world" pattern that I just started for my bedroom. Here's a photo of the fabric and pattern.

Second is a really cute Halloween wall hanging done in applique. The pieces are cut and it just needs to be assembled and quilted.

My third project is 20 - 12" Christmas star point squares I need to finish for an exchange. Here's one square, I only have 19 more to go.

(No Photo on this one)

And, last but not least is finishing my mini-quilt for the CGQC exchange that must be complete by the end of the month. I must say this one is almost complete. I still need to add the batting and the binding and then it's done.

Like most of you, I have a number of other projects in the works that I won't list but if I happen to finish them I'll post pictures. I'm anxious to do some paper piecing so who knows I just might be able to fit in a project this month.

"Winner" Birthday Giveaway

2009-09-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

And the "Winner is" Pat from A Little of This and a Little of Pat. Thank you Pat for your entry and Birthday wishes. Send me an email with your address and I'll send the package off to you this weekend.

Thank you to all of you bloggers out there who sent Birthday Wishes my way! I've visited most of your blogs and I'm fasinated with all the fabulous projects.

Birthday Giveaway!!

2009-09-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

This post will remain at the top of my posts until the giveaway ends.
For current posts please scroll down.

It's time for my first giveaway!!! My birthday is this month so I thought it would be fitting to do it now. To enter, become a follower and leave a comment for your first entry. Mention my giveaway on your blog and leave a comment including a link to your post and get a second entry. If your friends or blog followers mention that they saw my giveaway on your blog I will give you a third entry! Now how's that for easy to get three chances to win this lovely fabric!!

The first item in the giveaway is the fabric in the photo. It has four rose squares that are the same on the other side. My favorite color is green and I love flowers so when I found this fabric I knew right away that this would be a fun item to have in the giveaway. I hope you like it too!
The second item I've added to the giveaway is a charm pack of 40 5" fabric squares from Kaffe Fassett that are just beautiful bright colors that would make a lovely quilt. You never know, I just might add a few more items before the giveaway deadline to add a little element of surprize for the lucky winner!!

The winner will be drawn on September 30th, (my birthday) so the deadline will be midnight on September 29th. Good Luck!!

September Finishes for CGQC

2009-09-28T19:54:00.001-07:00

September has been a busy month. I returned to work after having the summer off and I've really had to push myself to get back in the swing of the 9 to 5 work week. Every extra minute I have I try to get to my sewing projects in hopes of getting some of those Christmas gifts done.

Aside from my birthday this month, we also celebrated the birthdays of two of my children. It's been a whirlwind of activity around here. Anyway, here are my September finishes for the Charming Girls Quilt Club.
I finished this quilt at the end of the week. It was really easy quilt to make but it seems like it took me forever to finish it with the little increments of time I had to work on it. But it's done now. It reminds me of some curtains my mom had in the late 60's, it's the floral pattern fabric I guess that takes me back.

Next on my list was to finish these pillow cases I had been wanting to make for quite some time. They came together quickly once I got to working on them.

And last, but not least, is the blanket I finished for my other grandson. It was actually my first finish this month. Poor kid was the last of my three grandsons to get his blanket and boy was he on me every time he came to visit.

I've also been working on my mini quilt for the exchange and on 20 star point Christmas squares for another exchange I'm participating in. I must say that the pressure has been on when I think of all I have to do to make the deadlines. But I can now say that I'm feeling sure now that I can get them all done.

I took tomorrow and Wednesday off to celebrate my Birthday (which I'll probably spend in my sewing room) to just relax and leisurely do whatever I want.

Reflecting

2009-09-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

Like almost everyone, when I woke up this morning, I remembered exactly where I was on this day in 2001. On 9/11/01 I was in a hotel in Phoenix, Arizona with my mother and sister-in-law. We had stopped to get some rest on our way to a funeral in El Paso, Texas when we heard the terrible news. As we got dressed and started back on our journey, things around us seemed chaotic and we no longer felt safe. We felt distressed and confused, and wondered if we should just turn around and go back home. We thought we can't do that, (it was my mother's sister who had passed away and she had to be at the funeral) so we just kept traveling.

Today, I spent some time reflecting on just how vulnerable we felt that day and how much I missed my husband and family who were at home worrying about us and our safety. It sure was a scary trip and one I'll never forget.

The loss of so many people that day will forever remain in our hearts and prayers and we will never forget the heroic efforts of those who fought to save the lives of all those who were injured.

September Projects for the Charming Girls Quilt Club

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

I know this is last minute but I do want to participate in the September Charming Girls Quilt Club this month. Here are some pictures of the projects I hope to finish along with a list of other projects that I didn't take pictures of. We'll see just how much I can get done.

This is a rail fence quilt that I need to get finished for a friend. The only thing complete on this one is the squares. I've got to sew it all together, add the borders, the batting and the back before I can say this project is done.

The second project that I've been hoping to complete are some pillow cases. I beige fabric is for the case and the gold and burgandy are for the accent trim. I'm making these for my bedroom.

The third project is the quilt I still need to finish for my grandson. The top is done, but I still need to embroider his name on it, add the batting and the back. I hope to get this one done first, actually. I thought the three day weekend would give me the time I needed to finish it but I had a full house of family and friends until just a few hours ago.

I hope you all had a great Labor Day and good luck you CGQC ladies with all your projects. Happy Sewing.

San Diego Quilt Show

2009-09-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

This month is the San Diego Quilt Show here in Southern California. There will be three days of absolute fun viewing the quilts and art of some of the most talented quilters around. Click on the site for more information including admission fees, exhibits, displays, quilt entries and general information.

August Charming Girls Club Finishes

2009-08-30T21:15:00.000-07:00

The blue quilt top blanket (started back in April or May) was made for one of my grandson and then his little brothers (the twins) asked where their blankets were. They're a year younger and I had planned to make them each one for Christmas but because they were feeling left out I had to go to work on theirs now since they made me feel pretty guilty.

I quickly started on the second one (the green one) and finished it in about three days, complete with his nickname embroidered in the center.

I'm currently working on the last one for the other twin. I don't think I'll get it done till next week, but I'll give it a good try. The front is almost complete but I still need to add the batting and the back. We'll see how far I get. I keep getting side tracked and working on smaller projects.

(Check out the orbit in the picture with my grandson. I've heard of people finding them in their pictures but this is a first for me.)

I'm also finished the red lap quilt for myself. My legs are always cold. I'll get a lot of use out of it when we sit outside in the evening. Thanks to the CGQC I've completed a number of projects that I had put aside.

"Tutorial" Sewing Machine Cover

2009-08-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

Sewing Machine Cover made from a pair of used jeans. Follow the instructions below to make one for yourself. Be sure to read all the steps in the instructions before you begin so that you know what will come next and how easily it comes together.

Steps to Follow:

Get yourself a pair of used jeans (I used a size 14 pair of woman's jeans).

1. Cut the legs of the jeans off just below the crouch.2. Make sure the the bottom piece you cut is straight (see above photo) so you can either hem it or add trim later.

3. Stitch a straight line down inside front of the jeans just below the zipper to remove the crouch. Trim off the excess piece. (see photo below.)

4. Measure the waist of the jeans laying flat and add 1.5 inches to that measurement. (My waist measured 16" and I added 1.5 inches which made the total 17.5 inches*)

5. Mark a piece (using the leg of the jean) 5 inches in height by the length you measured *mine was 17.5 inches. (my piece was 5"x17.5") See photos below.

6. After you've cut this out, round off the four corners as shown in the photo below.

7. Make sure your jeans are inside out and pin the cut piece along the back of the waist just below the waist band. Sew along this piece, stitching just below the waist band. Tip: fold piece in half to measure your placement. Place fold on the center below the waist band and pin.

8. Now remove your pins from the back part and pin the front and sides, pinning darts down around the sides to round the corners on both sides. Now sew this part (just below the waist band) and you are done with the top part.

This photo shows it pinned down.

This photo also shows it pinned down with the darts around the corners.

This photo shows it sewn all around with the pins removed.

This photo shows it turned right side out and how it should look. As you can see in the photo, it's sewn below the waistband.

9. Sew the hem or add trim to the bottom edge and your sewing machine cover is complete.

10. Optional: add embroidery or applique to decorate your machine cover as you desire.

This is a really fun project and the pockets on both the front and back of the jeans add storage for your scissors, bobbins, etc. I hope you enjoy making one for yourself.

Machine Cover Challenge "Here's Mine"

2009-08-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

What do you think Jenny? Last night I went to bed thinking how can I put together a quick cover for my machine to enter your giveaway and this morning the idea popped into my head the minute I woke up.

Use a pair of those jeans you have stashed away was my thought. Who doesn't like jeans (even my sewing machine could use a nice fitting pair). I have this large stash of jeans that I try to recycle, so I went right to it and picked out a pair of jeans I thought would make a cute cover.

I cut the legs off, cut out a piece to cover the top inside the waist band, added some trim to the bottom and embroidered "Love 2 Sew" on the bottom. The pockets in the front and back add storage for scissors, bobbins, etc.

I took pictures along the way and I'm going to put a tutorial together. When I finished I thought this is a quick and easy way to turn those old jeans into a cute skirt too.

Thanks for the challenge. I now have a machine cover for my Brother C-6000.

Check out the post below for more info on the challenge and giveaway - it ends 8/31.

2009-08-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

Here's an awesome Challenge.

Jenny over at Elefantz blog has a Sewing Machine Cover Challenge that ends on the 31st.

Stop by her blog and check it out! The prizes are great. One is pictured in the photo and the other is a great magazine. Visit her blog for more details and to view her finished cover.

I need a machine and a serger cover so If I have time this weekend I'm going to try to get one done.

Really Feeling Lucky

2009-08-26T19:42:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that I won this cute Abbey Bag from Michelle's Quilts and Stuff for her 150th post! I am feeling so lucky these days. When I first saw this cute, and very useful tool to have in my sewing room, I thought I'm going to have to make myself one.

Then, while blog surfing, I came across Michelle's giveaway and silently said to myself, "maybe I'll be the lucky one" and low and behold I won. Thank you Michelle, you can be sure I will use it, cherish it and always think of you when I'm at my sewing table.

You have a great blog and I encourage everyone to stop by for a visit. Click here to view the creativity over on her blog.

I Love My Tea Towel!

2009-08-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks Joan for the great tea towel! The design is so creative. You're awesome!

I am thankful to The Charming Girls Quilt Club for your friendship. Being relatively new to blogging, I had no idea that it would be so much fun and that I would develop connections and friendship with such nice and talented people who love and share the same hobbies from all over the world.

My husband and family have been amazed too at everyone's talents and the creativity we share. I hope that we can continue to share ideas and exchange projects. And you Kelly, (from the Charming Girls blog site), should be proud of the connections you've made possible through your club. I'm positive that I'm not the only one who feels this way.

I'd like to share that 5 years ago I moved 100 miles from my friends and family and had to give up the groups and classes I participated in. Little did I know that blogging would bring that all back for me.

Blog Award and Tag Your It

2009-08-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by dear Glenna over at Your Fabric Place to share 10 tidbits about myself with all of you. The TAG requires me to bestow this award and task on 10 other fabulous bloggers.

I suppose this is how we get to know one another and share our personal feelings and history to help form those friendships we make through our internet conversations.

No yawns please....

1. I'm married to my high school sweetheart and we're still inseparable.

2. Make me laugh and you'll see me cry too. Somehow the two go hand in hand with me.

3. I'm extremely sentimental. I tear up when I hear a sad story or a lovely song -- go figure??

4. At age 11 my mother taught me how to sew and I began making my own clothes and patterns out of newspaper (when your body is tiny the patterns don't have to be perfect to fit, but it's another story when you develop all those curves).

5. Shoes...I love shoes. Because I have a small foot (size 5), if I find a shoe I like and it fits, I buy it. This stems from needing a pair of shoes to match a dress for a special event and not being able to find it in my size when I need it. So now I always have a pair that will work perfectly in a pinch.

6. Dieting is out of the question since I can't pass up a piece of chocolate.

7. Gardening is another one of my hobbies.

8. I love to watch Disney movies with my grand kids and play a card game called "speed" with my oldest grand-daughter.

9. I love all types of music. My husband and I can pretty much listen to anything from the oldest stuff to the most current. Even the grand kids come to us sometimes to see if we have a song they want recorded.

10. When I was younger, I wanted to change my first name to a more popular one. A phase I guess.

Hey...I know some of you were yawning out there.

I'm really just a home body that enjoys quiet time, family and friends and doing what I enjoy.

If you've been tagged, post the award on your blog and tag 10 others. Oh come on...it's not that painful.

Tag Your It....

1. I Purr-furr To Craft

2. Sew Fun Quilts

3. Ouvrages d'une

4. My Favorite Things

5. Julies Open Window

6. Quilty Mama

7. Carenaraujo

8. Stitchin with Spike

9. Erin Learns To Quilt

10. Sew Perfectly Bagged

God Bless!!

Tea Towel Exchange fo Charming Girls Club Complete!!

2009-08-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

My tea towel is done and ready to be mailed to my exchange partner Joan. I made four different towels before I was happy with the one I'm sending. This was my first time making a tea towel and I wanted her to be happy with the towel she receives. To make it more stressful, my sewing machine was acting up and not stitching well but I finally figured out that I had the wrong size bobbin in it (somehow I mixed it up with one from my other machine) after I wasted about an hour fiddling with it, cleaned the machine and changed the needle. Boy was I fustrated and worried I would ruin it. Ultimately I was able to finish it and move on to work on the blanket/quilt I'm making for my grandson.

Joan posted that she mailed my towel out last week so I'm watching my mail box with anticipation. Once Joan receives her package from me I'll share my pictures. Good luck all you "charming girls" with completing your projects.

UPDATE: Joan received her towel and recipe. Here is a picture of what I sent her. The recipe was for Keylime Pie.

Look What the Postman Brought Me!!

2009-08-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I won a giveaway from My Favorite Things and it came in the mail today. The gift was a pattern called "Birds & Bow Bed Topper" and it looks like it will be a lot of fun to make. Just look at the intricate detail in the center. It's all hand painted. I'm not sure that my painting skills are of this caliber but I'm willing to give it a try. I might surprise myself.

Thank you so, so much Kerry! I'm planning to give it a shot on a long rainy day weekend.

Take a minute and visit Kerry at http://myfavoritethings-kerry.blogspot.com/ -- she has some awesome stuff on her blog.

Small "but fun" Projects

2009-08-12T23:38:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I've only been able to fit in small amounts of time to sew lately so the projects I'm working on are quick ones.

These small Christmas projects are a few of the things I've been working on. This Christmas Bear is a favorite of mine so I thought I'd make it for one of my grand daughter to add to her collection of stuffed animals. These snowmen are a sample of an embroidery pattern I'm trying out for Christmas ornaments and appliques for some Holiday apparrel. The blue one I stitched out in one solid color thread (light blue) and the white applique I stitched out in the recommended colors for the pattern just to see how it came out. What do you think?

This gift bag is a really easy pattern to whip up for a quick gift wrap. It's very similar to a pillowcase pattern leaving the small accent piece open to slip a ribbon through to cinch it closed.

This little bag is a cell phone helper. Worn around the neck, it allows you to be hands free and still have quick access to your cell phone when you're expecting that important call. The fabric used here isn't the greatest but it was handy when I had the idea to sew it up and just the right size (it's just a sample). I'll need to use some nice cording and some attractive fabric for the one's I'll be making for stocking stuffers. This was really simple and quick to make. the ribbon was sewn in with the side seam so once you sew up both sides its done and very secure.

Enjoy A Crafty Moment!!

Giveaways

2009-08-11T00:48:00.000-07:00

The giveaway list for August just keeps growing. Today I added about 4 more very generous blogs offering to giveaway some great items. Take a minute and check them out. They don't ask for much and it doesn't hurt to throw your name in the hat. You never know just how lucky you can be. I myself have won 4 giveaways -- something I never expected.

The giveaway list is on my sidebar close to the bottom of my blog. Good luck!!

I've Been Tagged - "You're It Now"

2009-08-10T00:43:00.000-07:00

What does this mean? All good I assure you! Just a bit of blogging fun. I was tagged by Purr-Furr to Craft and I have to tell you ten things about myself (it wasn't that easy).

1. Like most everyone else I love chocolate.

2. I come from a family of 9 and I'm the middle child.

3. I'm married to my high-school sweetheart .

4. Besides sewing and crafting, gardening is one of my favorite past-times.

5. I have 4 grandsons and 3 granddaughters.

6. I love to sit outside at night and take in the view of the city.

7. This one is silly I know but I have this thing for Tone Loc's voice (most of you probably don't know who he is).

8. I'm very sentimenal and cry at the movies (almost always).

9. I have two dogs - Sugar my teacup chihuahua and CoCo my Shitz zu

10. I enjoy going to estate sales, bargain shops and collecting vintage jewelry.

Now I have to tag 10 people to carry this on. It's all in fun, however, I'll understand if you don't want to play. If you read this you're tagged - you can leave your list on my comments if you like.

More Projects to Complete

2009-08-07T04:51:00.000-07:00

Here's what I'm planning on completing for the August Charming Girls Quilt Club: I'm hopeful that I'll get the blue quilt completed for my grandson (I submitted it in July but didn't get to it),

a small quilted throw from these red blocks I made back in June or early July,

and a quilted tote bag from this pattern or one given to me by another club member called the Big Bag Theory.

Two of these are projects I'd just like to finish. My grandson comes over and wraps himself around the unfinished blanket and makes me feel guilty because it's not done. This is first project I'll be working on. I'm now starting to work on Christmas stuff too, so I'll be fitting a few of those projects in between these. It's fun to push myself and see how much I can get done.

Happy sewing ladies.

Beautiful Thumb Cushions!!!

2009-08-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

I won a giveaway for a pair of thumb cushions from http://sue-niven.blogspot.com/2009/07/thumb-pincushion.html and they came today. Thank you Sue...you have to share how you make them. The program for copying pictures to my computer isn't working right now so I can't show you the one's I received, so I'll tell you about them. On is burgandy and the other is green. Sue made sure I got two in my favorite colors. You just slip these little things over your thumb like a ring and they work great to keep pins handy when you're sewing.

Thank you Sue. I love them and hope you'll share your instructions to make them.

Driving Through The Mountains

2009-08-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

My husband and I took a trip down to Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon to visit the kids. We headed back home early Sunday morning to avoid any traffic since we have to drive 100 miles. While driving up the pass, I took these pictures of the mountains and the sun rising through the early morning clouds. The views are so pretty, I love the desert (except for the extremely hot days). Check out the pictures on the bottom of this post. Every time we pass this huge rock it amazes me how much it looks like an old Indian face with the wrinkles and all. I was surprised at how clear the pictures came out on this one.

We stopped for breakfast and coffee and once we got home the entire afternoon was spent watching movies on LifeTime and looking at craft shows that I recorded during the week. I did a little embroidery on my Janome and made a snowman ornament. I was trying out this pattern for the first time and wanted to see how it stitched out.

I can say I had a relaxing day and also fit in a little blog surfing.

This is a photo from a distance. Check out the hugh rock in the center of the photo.

Here it is again, we're getting a little closer.

Here's another one that kind of shows you the size of it in comparison to the truck.

Check this out!! What do you think?

Charming Girls Quilt Club - 5 Things

2009-07-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

5 Things.....
1. My Favorite Fabric is:
I love florals and warm colors, it doesn't matter who designs them (if I like them, I buy them).
2. The pattern I'm most looking forward to sewing is:
A quilted tote bag (pattern sent to me by another club member)
3. The food that is my weakness:
Taco and potato chips
4. If I knew I couldn't fail, I'd:
I'd run a marathon or swim in the ocean. I know this might sound a bit much but I loved to run when I was young and I've always loved the water but for some reason never got the hang of swimming (just wading, floating and splashing around).
5. The Best "Life" Advice I know is:
Trust in your faith.

http://cottoncharmquilts.typepad.com/charmingchatter/

Does Organizing Make Sense??

2009-07-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today was the day to get to the things on my to-do list; no more putting it off. First task was cleaning the bathrooms, a regular chore that no-one wants to do. I'm having one of them tiled this weekend and I had to remove everything to make it easy and less cumbersome for the tiler.

Then, I quickly picked up around the house (not much to do there) and lastly headed to my sewing room - the disaster room. I folded fabric, put away notions, picked up threads from the floor and tried to put everything in its place. The problem with putting things away is you never find them . I'm told everybody has that problem?? That's the whole reason the room gets torn up in the first place because you have to tear everything apart just to find what you put away. Makes you wonder, does organization make sense?

After a long day of "organizing" I finally sat down to a dinner of pizza with my husband and grandkids. After they leave I hope to take a long hot bubble bath.

Christmas in July

2009-07-29T21:27:00.000-07:00

I decided (late I know) to post a few pictures of Christmas ornaments I've made in the past years to share with all of you early birds who are already preparing for Christmas in July.

I know everyone is always looking for ideas so I thought I'd show some of my Christmas crafts for you to see and maybe make in "a crafty moment".

The gingerbread ornaments were made this past Christmas and the others I'm not sure what year they were made. The ones posted here I kept for samples and some don't look like the fancy one I gave away. All of the ornaments I made for friends and family were designed in colors specific to the taste of the person in mind.

I used them as gift toppers, I grouped several together and gave them as ornament gifts and some I just threw in with other gifts to add a little surprize.

The gingerbread ones were made from fabric scraps and I either embroidered on them, sewed or glued on buttons or added some ribbon or ric rack to dress them up. The blue and green one in the background were never finished. I just saved them as samples.

This was made as an ornament. This was my sample, the ones I gave away were made in satin with sequins or beads added.

This little Angel is made with folded fabric and starched. The wings are just glued on and the beaded head is stuck in the fold with a foiled pipe cleaner. Put a bit of glue before sticking it between the fold.

These are the cutest pasta ornaments ever - made from four types of pasta a wooden bead and seed beads for the hair. Once they are all glued together you just spray paint in what ever color you want.

This little one was made from scrap fabric. You can either stamp, embroider, or paint the face on these. Glue some small twigs for reindeer antlers and cover with a ribbon or a bit of straw grass (not sure what you call that stuff).

I hope you enjoyed by contribution to Christmas Crafts!!
Leave me a comment -- I'd love to hear from you.

Third Project Complete

2009-07-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

H00ray...done in a day.!! I thought I'd never get to this project because I dreaded cutting out the pattern, as it turned out its only two pieces. The pattern had five different options to choose from and when I took the pieces out of the envelope the first time I thought oh no, there's too many pattern pieces to deal with and stuffed it all back in. There it stood all month long glaring at me do pick it up again. So, a couple of nights ago, I sat on the floor and cut apart all the pieces and separated them. After that, it wasn't such a big deal and discovering that this option had only two pieces I knew it would be a piece of cake to sew it up.

Thanks to Charming Girls Quilt Club, I was motivated to finish this project that was in my sewing room for several months. Once I decided to just get it done it didn't take much time to complete. It looks nice on and I plan to wear it this weekend.

To check out all the other finished projects, click on over to
http://cottoncharmquilts.typepad.com/charmingchatter/

So Many Giveaways...so little time

2009-07-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

It's nearly the end of the month and there are many giveaways still open. Check out my Giveaway list and click to enter. These generous bloggers are waiting for you to enter. Alot of the giveaways are offering some really nice stuff.

It doesn't hurt to throw your name into the hat and they don't require much. The requirements don't cost you a penny, most just want you to become a follower.

In the last week I've added a number of new sites offering to giveaway some really cool stuff. Just browse on down the list and visit each site to enter. Both you and they will be happy you did. You never know, you might be the next winner.

Hope you've had a great week and I hope to hear from you all. I plan to keep up my giveaway list if I hear from you that it's nice to have a one stop place to giveaway opportunities (we all know how long it takes to blog hop) so leave me a comment or two if you are using it as a resouce an while you're at it you might want to become a follower of mine to get my giveaway updates.

I say it doesn't hurt to spread the love. Have a blessed day!!

Eye Glass Caddy

2009-07-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

Last week I spent a few days at my daughters house while I was out of town and noticed that she had so many pairs of sunglasses hanging from her mirror from a scarf. I quickly got an idea to make a caddy for her to hang them on. When I got home, a whole week later, I was eagar to get back in my sewing room; my place of solitude. Don't you all feel like you need to do something creative to relax. I know I do. I put a simple pattern together in no time.

It took me less than 15 to 20 minutes to create the pattern and sew it together. It can hold up to a dozen pair of glasses. It can be hung from your mirror, a bed post, a peg or even a door knob, a great organization piece if I say so myself.

The project was fun and really easy, a great project for anyone

to make in a short period of time. Check out the Tutorial. I ended up making two and took quite a few

pictures to help guide you through to the finish. Believe me, this one is really easy.

I hung it from a wall hanging that I have to get a good picture of it. I was trying to get one hanging from the mirror but it wouldn't come out right and the strap wasn't long enough to go around the large square bed post on my bed.

The caddy is holding six pair of glasses and can easily hold several more.

Eye Glass Caddy Tutorial

2009-07-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Piece of fabric 8x13 inches, 1/2 in wide twill tape or ribbon, and bias tape (2.75m double folded). Please read instructions all the way through so that you have an understanding of the steps. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me. I hope you enjoy making the caddy. You won't believe how easy it is to make.

Cut a piece of Fabric 8 x 13 inches.

Fold it in half lengthwise and sew a 1/4 inch seam as shown creating a tube. (Leave both ends open.)

Turn right side out and press so that seam is in the center.

This picture shows what the front side should look like.

Picture of back side with seam in center.

Start pinning 1/2 inch Twill Tape approximately 1- 1/4 inch from the top and zig zag from side to side as shown till you get to the bottom. Cut off when you get to the bottom.

Fold in a 1/4 inch seam at the top and pin. This part will be sewn together when you stitch around to attach Twill Tape.

Pin top edge together as shown and described in previous photo.

Sew along the edge to hold the Twill Tape down. This will be covered when you put on the Bias Tape.

This picture shows how the caddy should look now. The bottom edge on the left is still open (it should not be sewn together). It will be sealed when you finish with the bias tape.

Cut a piece of card stock 3-1/4 x 11-1/2 inches. I used an old file folder. Any type of cardboard will do.

Slip it inside the caddy through the open end. You're almost done now.

After you've slipped the cardboard inside, flip it over to the side with the seam and stitch in the ditch. This will hold down the Twill Tape and make slots to insert the eye glasses when finished.

Your piece should look like this with the stitch down the middle. I rounded the corners of the unfinished side for ease when stitching the bias tape on.

Cut your bias tape approximately 48 inches long to go around the caddy and leave enough for the strap.

Start at the center of the bottom with the bias tape and begin sewing around. The wide side of the bias tape goes on the bottom and you stitch from the top. When you come to the top edge, sew along the bias tape to create the strap as shown below. Put a pin on the bias tape to mark the end of the strap.

TIP: Remember to leave enough bias tape to make it around the caddy to where you started. You can pin it if you like to be sure.

When you've sewn enough for the strap, insert the other side of the caddy under the bias tape and sew down to the bottom edge where you started and your done. See photo below.

Photo of where the bias tape should meet at the bottom of the caddy.

You're finished. Fill it with your glasses and make a few more for friends and family.

Photo of caddy being put to good use.

Leave me a comment if you make one for yourself. I'd love to see how yours turns out.

ABCDEFG - Package Arrived!!

2009-07-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

I've been out of town all week visiting my son in the hospital and just now getting home. In the mail was my package from Julie's Open Window. I won her card giveaway some weeks back and have been looking forward to receiving it.

The card is really cute and would be a great card for a 5th birthday and a cute keepsake too. Thanks for all the little extras you included in the package, they were truly a surprise. I'll have to create a card with the embellishments you sent and post a photo. Look for it soon.

Thank you Julie, keep creating those lovely cards. I can tell your cards by the cute flowers; they seem to be your signature style.

I Won!! Cute Thumb Cushions

2009-07-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

How lucky am I!! I won a giveaway for a pair of thumb cushions from http://sue-niven.blogspot.com/2009/07/thumb-pincushion.html. Here's a picture of the cute little things. The full story of these tiny creations is in her blog. I understand her story of compassion and loss of a great friend to cancer. Many of us have also known or lost someone close to us as well. Her story tells it all. I plan to pass on her story and to make a few of these in honor of her friend and those I know who have suffered through cancer and give them away also. They are cute little thinking of you gifts. They're small enough to carry in your purse and just give to someone for a kind jesture or just because. I love them and think they are so cute. They kind of remind me of a chocolate kiss -- something everyone would enjoy receiving.

Thank you Sue. I can't wait to receive them.

Stamping Buddy

2009-07-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today is all about Kathy a friend I met several years ago at our monthly bingo group. We got to talking about our hobbies and it turned out that she is an avid stamper.

Kathy sent me a batch of her cards to post for others to enjoy. Kathy is retired, plays bingo almost daily, cares for her granddaughter a few times a week and works at some of the local bingo games.

Thanks Kathy for sharing. I love the Rooster Card. Which one is your favorite? Please take a moment to comment or just say hello. It doesn't take much time. Sharing is what our blogs are all about and we do want to hear from you.

Blog Connections - Great Finds

2009-07-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

I've spend most of today looking at different blogs for inspiration. It sure does take up a good part of your day just browsing. I came across a great find and wanted to share it with my followers. For those of you that love bags, go on over and visit Jean's Page http://quiltinjeanie.blogspot.com/ she's got a fabulous giveaway going on too.

Another site I found today, also doing a giveaway. is http://scrap-bags.blogspot.com/2009/07/weekly-special-and-give-away.html stop by and check out her hand dyed fabric. It's a really cool looking piece.

I'm curious, how often do you search for that one new and inspiring blog? I'd love to hear from any of you bloggers out there about the one favorite blog you've discovered lately. Don't you think if we share great finds it will save us all some time.

Sunday, Sunday

2009-07-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

My husband and I spent the day with friends at a charitable event to benefit the football team of a college in our old neighborhood. The event included a vintage car show with several vendors and various exhibits. There was quite a turnout and I'm sure the event surpassed everyone's expectations.

We strolled through rows and rows of vintage cars talking with friends and old acquaintances from our high school days. It's amazing what some of these car enthusiasts do to the simplest of details. Some cars even had Coach interiors. My husband and his friends enjoy all things car related and they were into every detail of the car restorations.

After a few hours we became overheated and decided to leave and make the 90 mile trip back home. The forecast for the day was supposed to be 86 degrees, but I'm sure it was much hotter than that. It felt like 110. It was a great Sunday afternoon despite the heat.

When I go to events I always look for inspiration for my crafty creations. Today I noticed that many of the ladies were wearing flowers in their hair, big bright ones. I didn't see any for sale but thought that surely I could make some. So off I go to my sewing room to see what I can sew up. (Check out this site I just found http://rockybella.blogspot.com/2009/07/be-sure-to-wear-some-flowers-in-your.html she has a tutorial to make them.)

Congratulations to the promoters for a job well done!

Fun Filled Day

2009-07-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few greeting cards and postcards from my stash that I'd like to share. There are a number of different techniques used here. If you are curious about what was used just send me a post and I'll get back to you.

Today three of my grandsons came over to spend the day with me and my husband. We played with water guns and had a blast. So full of energy, they seem to never get tired. We needed a rest so I sat and watched them play video games for a while. I was so amazed at how quick there little hands were at pressing the buttons and at the intelligence level it takes to play those games. There's so much going on at once, I don't know how they keep track of the moves, the pop-ups and the characters. The twins, who are three years old, and their older brother who is four, played one game each against their mother and won her fair and square. She was lost from the start.

After lunch I read them a book and than we watched a movie before they left for home totally exhausted from the excitement, or should I say I was the one exhausted. I'm so grateful for the fun and laughs we had today, it sure made the day go by in a flash. I have to tell you about the biggest laugh we had. At one point, after running around with the kids, my daughter said, "I'm pooped". My four year old grandson looked at her with a puzzled look on his face and said, "Mom -- you pooped yourself"? We all laughed so hard.

The house is quiet now and I thought I'd retreat to my sewing room for an hour or two andwork on some projects.

Pushing Forward

2009-07-17T15:02:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog a few weeks ago I thought I'd only be sharing projects and ideas and making contacts with others who had the same passions I had. It never came to mind that grief would interfer in my life and that it would be the only thing on my mind to share. I can't really process much right now so I apologize.

The funeral services for my neice and father-in-law were yesterday; and today I'm still feeling lost. Not much in my mind to share. Losing her at only 30 years old has brought such sadness to our family. Our faith is strong and we know she is with our lord but, boy do we miss her.

On Wednesday night I made this embroidered pillow for her mother to keep in memory of her. It was a small thing in comparison to the grief she is suffering.

Thank you all for your condolences. I really do appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Do What You Love

2009-07-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

One never knows what life has in store for us. I woke up this morning reflecting on the past few weeks. I've enoyed time with family, started my blog and made many new friends, I've had time to sew and get together with friends, spent time completing things on my to do list, just going about my days in a leisurely fashion. I've been doing what I love and enjoying it.

I can say I have no regrets, I try to make each day special and always take a few minutes for myself and for my hobbies to keep me balanced. After the sad news we received yesterday it was difficult to get through the day. We were all feeling numb with grief. The day was filled with phone calls and disbelief. At bedtime I couldn't sleep so I went to my sewing room and worked on the wall hanging (one of the projects for the Charming Girls Club) and on an embroidery project to keep my mind off the sadness. Around 2am I couldn't keep my eyes open and finally went to bed.

Well, I won't go on and on, 'but I was glad I had this outlet to share my thoughts. Do What You Love and appreciate the small things in life.

Blog Trouble

2009-07-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

My blog is suddenly experiencing some difficulty. My Giveaway List and the Blogs I follow are not showing up.

I'm trying to figue out how to fix it. If you are visiting and can help please leave me a post. Since I'm new to blogging, I'm going to have to do a bit of research. Unfortunately, today we lost a dear niece on by husband's side from a sudden illness who was only in her early 30's. I won't have much time in the next few days available, so if you can help I sure would appreciate it.

Have a blessed day!

Taking It Easy

2009-07-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Well it's Sunday and we're all just taking it easy.

My class on Saturday went well and it was so much fun. I met so many nice ladies. We worked on an embroidery project putting together several designs, lining them up so that they make one picture. Here's a photo of what I was able to accomplish.

Of course I couldn't leave without purchasing a number of things. I bought four books 2 on Embroidery Machine Essentials that have several quilt patterns and a CD with a number of designs. I can't wait to try them. I also purchased two books on patterns and projects using your serger. There's one pattern of a scarf that is so unique that I plan to make.

Here's a few photos of the Vintage Bag I completed for the Charm Girls Quilt Club.

Have a great Sunday afternoon!!

TGIF

2009-07-09T23:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited for Saturday to come. I'll be attending a class to learn some techniques for using my new Janome embroidery machine. I have so many plans and ideas for embroidered projects. They have some great pros at the sewing center and I'm going to learn all I can from them. I just purchased the machine in June and have done a few project but I really need help on positioning the item properly so that my designs come out just as I want them. Placement is key for a professional looking job. For this newbee, there is so much to learn, the software, digitizing, stabilizers, etc.

Last night I finished the Vintage Cosmetic Bag (I'll post a picture next week). Oh and fabulous job club members on all the projects you're working on. The one's I've had the time to see are fantastic. The purse from http://www.ouvragesduneacadienne.blogspot.com/ is one of my favorites.

One more thing, check out my sidebar; there's a list of quite a few giveaways for this month from some very generous bloggers. Do check out their sites, I'm sure they'll appreciate your visit.

You all have a great weekend!

More progress on the Vintage Cosmetic Bag

2009-07-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

The quilting is done. After lunch yesterday I was able to fit in an hour of sewing on this project. Here's a photo of the pieces. I need to go out today and buy the bias tape or maybe I'll make my own to match the fabric.

Having the summer off from work is fabulous. Being able to do the things I enjoy on a daily basis is so much fun. I hope you're all enjoying this as much as I am.

Ah..Progress on the Vintage Cosmetic Bag

2009-07-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

I've been busy. The pattern has been reproduced, the pieces have been cut out and now I have to quilt them before they can be assembled. Here's a few pictures of my work in progress. I just hope it all comes together well. Joining the club, has got me focused on sewing. I love it!!

Anticipation....

2009-07-07T07:22:00.000-07:00

Excitement is what I'm feeling waiting for a package from Julies Open Window http://juliesopenwindow.blogspot.com/. Over the 4th of July weekend I won the drawing for her Blog Candy giveaway. Julie has a lovely site and just openned her Etsy Store with lovely cards for sale. Thanks Julie, my anticipation of receiving your package is killing me!!

What Fun!! Join the Club

2009-07-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

This is going to be so much fun. Visit http://cottoncharmquilts.typepad.com/charmingchatter/ to view the details. It's really simple, and it will give you that push we sometimes need to get those projects done while having fun. And, best of all -- viewing all the finished projects and the creativity of others.

I was referred to this site by http://quiltymama.blogspot.com/ who's always up on the latest and greatest ideas.

So here are the few projects I'm posting to get done. The first is a vintage cosmetic bag I found at a vintage store and would like to recreate. It's home sewn by machine and has a few compartments inside. I'll need to recreate the pattern (there's about six pieces). The second is a denim and scrap quilt I'm making for my grandson. I still need to make it a bit larger, add the batting and bind it.

Third project is a wall hanging and lastly a couple of blouses I'd like to whip out (ha ha). Bye for now, I'm off to sew, sew, sew.

Fun Summer Hat Pattern

2009-07-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

I came across these two cards I made several years ago. The hat pattern would be great to make a summer hat for a garden party invitation or similar get together or just a thinking of you greeting.

Inside the card I used an explosion type fold which helped to hold it together nicely (see photo). Here's the pattern for those of you who might want to give it a try. If you do please send me your photo. I'd love to see how others would design their hat.

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

Spool Sewing
Check out this site. They have a great apron pattern and a few other patterns that look like they'd be fun to make.

My First Week

2009-07-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will mark my first week of blogging. Whew, trying to put the site together, get photos together, and fit in some crafting time has kept me really busy. Aside from all that I cleaned my sewing room and organized a bit.

Today I worked on some quilt squares. When I squared them up I had a pile of small fabric pieces that looked pretty colorful so I put them on a coordinating fabric square and stitched over them with a zigzag stitch. They turned out looking like confetti on fabric. Wouldn't you know it, I'm not done with the project I'm working on and I'm already inspired to make something else. The squares will make a great looking "confetti" wall hanging.

These are the squares I'm working on and look at the "confetti squares".

I think they'll make an interesting piece of fabric art. My husband says I just can't throw anything away. I'd like to know what you think of them...leave me a comment.

Envelope Card w/Instructions

2009-06-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

Here's a great card made with a 6x9 catalog envelope.

Instructions:

Seal envelope. Stamp both front and back sides of envelope.

Cut off 3" On the short end of the envelope. Crimp the large piece so it fits inside the top piece and embellish as you like. Great to insert gift card or money or a stamped note inside.

4th of July Cards

2009-06-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hi, I've been up early putting together some photos. I thought I'd start with some 4th of July cards; some I've made and others I acquired through a swap. Hope you all enjoy.

The Pressures On

2009-06-29T10:12:00.000-07:00

OK, Sweaty palms and unknown territory for this newcomer to blogging; I'm still putting my thoughts together on building my blog. Later today I'll be posting a batch of photos of my handmade cards and a project or two. Happy Monday!

Take "A Crafty Moment" to create!

Summer Crafting

2009-06-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

Summer vacation is here and I'm excited to get back to the many projects I've been wanting to do for quite some time. I just purchased a Janome Embroidery machine and can't wait to create some fun and fancy gifts and to put together some great designs. All you experts out there don't hesitate to share your tips and projects. I'd love to see what others are doing.

I'm new at quilting and want to try working with a pattern to see if I can turn out a fabulous quilt like all you great quilters out there. My niece Melody has inspired me to try my hand at making a nice quilt with a pattern to take all the guess work out of it. Boy has it been time consuming coming up with my own measurements to create blocks. My first "quilt" was a t-shirt one for my husband. It turned out ok, after the many difficult challenges I had to cross to complete it. I guess all that matters is that he loves it. What can I say.

This is my first time blogging; another one of those things on my summer to do list. Anyway, thanks to my niece Melody (www.quiltymama.blogspot.com) again, who gave me the inspiration to give it a try.