country hill

A Couple More Free Pieced Blocks

2011-10-17T14:58:00.000-07:00

These are a couple more blocks for my partner, Sarah in Sarah and Molly's Free Piecing Study.

I only have a few left to make. I love the pink, orange, and black that Sarah chose.

One-eyed Kitty says thanks for stopping by.

*Gnome and mushroom block inspiration found here. Mine is free pieced, not paper pieced.

Pluto! ...

2011-09-24T15:42:00.000-07:00

Can you finish that line? It goes like this:
"We have chipmunks in our tree! Cute little fellas".
Who said it? Yep. Mickey Mouse here.
What does this have to do with my foundation pieced chipmunk?
Nothing, it was the only chipmunk-y thing I could think of.

So. A little quilt with two foundation pieced chipmunks, 4 fall leaves and some squares.
I'll let you know when I finish it.
Happy fall y'all!

Sarah And Molly's Free-Piecing Study

2011-09-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

Our Free-Piecing Study is coming to an end. We will have one more block to make for October and something special for the back of our quilts before we finish.

A year goes by quickly when measured in quilt blocks.
I was relatively new to free-piecing and I've learned a bunch of stuff
through this process that I will share at the end.

I'm not completely caught up but getting there.
See what everyone in our flickr group has made so far.

These are my blocks--some for Sarah and some of them are for me.

Dining Chairs Before And After

2011-08-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

My summer project.
Two old chairs that used to belong to Jim's grandparents.

There was some deconstructing and a lot of gluing.

Glued and ready for sanding and a coat of primer.

Primed.

Painted with new foam, batting, and fabric for seat cushions.

My New Pal

2011-08-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

This is Figgie. He was rescued by my sister in Washington state. At just three weeks old he had no mom and he was starving.

He also had an eye infection that would eventually cause him to lose one eye.
He wasn't really expected to live but he did.

Then he went to live with someone who eventually decided she couldn't keep him.
Amd now he's ours. He is beginning to settle in.
He's healthy and sweet and smart.

Figgie had such a difficult start
and we are hoping to make the rest of his life better than the beginning.
Stay tuned for more Figgie stories.

Ink & Spindle Fabric

2011-06-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have long been a fan of Ink & Spindle. Last month our beloved first-born son Brian, who is a grad student at MCAD, traveled to Australia to attend an educational conference. Actually (may I brag?), he didn't only attend the conference--was a presenter.

Brian also screen prints t-shirts and occasionally prints on fabric. So Brian, having an interest in screen printing and having a mama who loves Ink & Spindle's hand screen printed fabric,
visited their studio and shop.

They were friendly and gracious and when they learned that I love everything they turn out, they gathered up a few pieces to give to me! I was thrilled--thrilled, I tell you!

I love my new gorgeous fabric!
Thank you Teegs and Lara (pretending we are close friends).

Free-Piecing Study Block 2 of 2 For May

2011-05-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

The first block for May is a flower--tutorial found here --thanks, Sarah!

The second block is a simple tree.
*Disclaimer: this is not a tutorial. I'm only sharing how I made mine. I'd be willing to bet that experienced free-piecers have better ways of doing this, but this is how my brain works. So.

This one is for Sarah.

And this one is for me.

And here's another one I made awhile back.

Our free-piecing group can be found here on flickr.
Some cute trees can be found here and here and here.

Little Baskets Quilt

2011-04-29T15:08:00.001-07:00

Little baskets doll quilt. Measures 20" x 20".

Old Turkey Buzzard

2011-04-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

Buzzards. I like them. I like to see them return to our area in the spring. In early spring around our house we say things like "Have you seen any buzzards yet?" or "Hey, guess what I saw today? Yes, a buzzard!" They eat carrion--good job! They are graceful when they fly, catching thermals, hardly ever needing to flap their wings. Buzzards are cool. They even wrote a song about them.

Free-Pieced Study Block for April--Shoofly

2011-04-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

A shoofly block couldn't be easier, right? I mean, you can just look at it and tell how it's constructed--a tutorial would be excessive. Yet I won't assume that all 90 members of our flickr group are experienced free-piecers so I will share a little of how I made mine. And by the way, the only reason I'm experienced is because I've made exactly one.

I cut 11 squares--8 for the background, 2 for the contrasting corners, and 1 for the center. Mine are 4" squares to end up with a 10.5 " block. (See disclaimer at the end.) And I think 4.5" blocks will produce a 12.5" block.

Cut the 2 contrast squares in half and wonk-ily sew them to 4 background squares, making sure that both points of each triangle extend beyond the edges of background squares.Trim, press, and square up each of these.Sew all 9 squares together and press. I pressed my seams open to avoid bulk.
There is a lot you can do with this little shoofly block. Take a look here and at this one. Maybe a log cabin center or a fussy-cut center. Lots of room for individual creativity. Have fun!

*Disclaimer: I don't have quilting software; neither am I very good with mathematical equations. So at the end, when sewing the 9 blocks together, in order to make my 4" blocks become a precise 10.5" block, I simply took a generous 1/4 " seam instead of a scant one.

What's On My Work Table

2011-03-27T19:03:00.000-07:00

a little quilt with little free-pieced baskets

Dark, rainy days. Flash or not? Still trying to get used to my new little camera.

Free-Pieced Blocks For March

2011-03-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

March's installment for Sarah and Molly's Free Pieced Study--a girl block and a star block.

Sarah asked for blocks made of pink, orange, and black with a little white.

My quilt will be red, pink, orange, lime, aqua, and some black and white.

This pink one is for my quilt.

This one with the orange background is for Sarah.

And two identical blocks--one for me and one for Sarah.

Walking

2011-02-22T22:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was sunny and kind of warm.
Instead of walking in my neighborhood and up the hill behind my house, I went here.
River Forks Park on the Umpqua River.

Not a soul around. The mister went with me; he likes to walk, too.

Cold water.

Free Pieced Blocks for February

2011-02-21T16:26:00.000-08:00

For Sarah and Molly's Free Piecing Study

This block is for me:

This one is for Sarah:

and this one is an extra, maybe for the back of my quilt:

Sarah has posted a nifty free-pieced heart tutorial here. Thanks, Sarah!

Baskets

2011-02-05T12:50:00.000-08:00

Lately I'm motivated to finish up some small quilt projects before I begin anything new.

I finally finished this basket quilt that I started last June. Go me.

Here's to more finishes!

Free Pieced Blocks

2011-01-27T15:55:00.000-08:00

Two blocks for me and two for my partner Sarah.
They're for Sarah and Molly's Free Piecing Study and it's still not too late to join us.
Go here to learn more.

Put A Bird On It

2011-01-22T12:27:00.001-08:00

Free Pieced Bird Block for January

2011-01-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

This block is for Sarah and Molly's Free Piecing Study.

January's blocks are a bird and a log cabin house.
One bird for me and one for my partner Sarah;
I haven't made Sarah's just yet.
It's not too late to begin creating along with us.
Free piecing is fun!

Unpredictable

2011-01-01T11:05:00.000-08:00

This is what we woke up to this morning. New snow. New year snow. This snowfall was a complete surprise to everyone including our weather forecasters. Really.

The happiest of new years to you!

Free-Piecing Fun

2010-12-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

Go here if you would like to learn how to have free-piecing fun. If you think you already know how and are already having it, well, how about some more? It's easy--no pressure, no sign-ups, just quilt along with us as much or as little as you would like. All the cool kids are doing it. You know you want to. So c'mon!

Christmas Mug Rug

2010-12-17T22:24:00.000-08:00

Measures 7" x 10".

Happy Holiday!

Some Weather

2010-10-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Pacific Northwest had its first storm of the season. Blowing and raining sideways. Thunder and lightening and hail. And intermittent rainbows.

I love fall.

Raven Quilt

2010-10-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

measures 10" x 10" free pattern found here.

Spell Check

2010-10-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Fabric I recently purchased at Jo-Ann:

Have an accurate day!

The. End.

2010-10-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Today I picked the last of the tomatoes. I will blanch and freeze them for soup. One plant in a container was all we grew this year and it yielded more than enough.
And they were delicious.

I just love tomatoes. Don't you?

Off To Minneapolis

2010-10-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Not me, the placemats. They are a little housewarming gift for Brian and Leah.

Free-pieced strips, and linen on the back. I am happy with the result.

I hope they like them.

Happy Sunday and happy week!

Fall

2010-09-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

Warm, sunny weather. Temperatures in the 80's. It hardly feels like fall. I'm not in a rush for summer to go. Not at all.

We still have these.

And lots of these.

And these.

I'm finishing up some quilt projects before beginning new ones. And enjoying this last bit of summer weather.

My DQS9 Quilt Arrived

2010-09-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

I am in love with my DQS9 doll quilt from Lucinda! Simply gorgeous fabric, hand quilting, and even embroidery stitches. These free-pieced plus blocks are one of my favorites! And look--orange and aqua.

And here's the back! A chair--I have admired Lucinda's little chair quilts and now I have one! Lucky me! But hmm, how can this be the back? How will I decide which side to show? So cute! And such detail!

She also sent along this unfinished quilt top and it has an Ink & Spindle bird block in the center. Do you see it?

And this sweet antique plate. I love it.
Most fun swap. Ever. Thank you, Lucinda.

A Sneak Peak For Brian

2010-08-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

I'm working on a little house warming gift. It's a surprise.

Doll Quilt Swap 9 Quilt Finished

2010-08-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

My offering for the DQS9 is complete and I am so pleased with the finished product. And now it's on its way to someone in the southwest. As much as I have enjoyed the process, I'm excited to begin something new, ya' know?

measures 15 1/2" x 15 1/2"

My new fat quarters found at Jo-Ann. Just look at that orange one--sweet!

Pat Sloan's Arabella

And here's Porky with his head in an empty Smart Puffs bag. It always warms my heart to see our geriatric and somewhat disabled cat still showing an interest in everyday things. Long live Pork Chop. P.S. He doesn't actually get to eat Smart Puffs; those were mine.

DQS9 Progress--Ready For Quilting

2010-08-11T21:22:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for mailing which means I will be receiving a quilt soon as well! This round seems to have cornered the market on beautiful little fabric works of art. You can see them here. I can't wait to learn which one is mine--the suspense may just be the best part!

MINNEAPOLIS-BOUND

2010-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Today at 7:30 a.m. our beloved first-born son, Brian, together with his beloved counterpart, Leah began the drive to Minneapolis where they will live for at least 2 years while Brian goes to grad school. I'm so sad and missing him already, but know that's what kids do (he's hardly a kid anymore)--they grow up and sometimes they leave.

Brian hasn't always lived here in town but we sure have loved every minute of the time he's spent near us.

Okay, so Brian, I will try not to be sad. I love you both and trust that you will have a wonderful adventurous life in your new spot. God bless you and I'll see ya' on Skype.

Love, Mama

A New Embroidery

2010-08-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

As summer fades I begin to look forward to fall and and fall colors--rich reds and oranges and golds.

This little bird embroidery was a free pattern found here.

Happy late summer,

DQS Waffling

2010-07-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

I haven't started yet. Not finding any peace in my fabric/color decisions, I changed my mind--several times. But this is what I've come up with. I'm sure. Probably.

There's Your Trouble

2010-06-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

Mr. Oriole: "My beak won't fit in the tiny holes because this isn't an oriole feeder, it's a hummingbird feeder, and I'm an oriole."

Me: "Don't worry, Mr O. I'm on it. An oriole feeder just your size is on my shopping list."

Drink Coasters

2010-06-22T21:33:00.001-07:00

A small hostess gift.

And some for me.

Kittehs in Kimonos

2010-06-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

My small order from Pink Chalk Fabrics arrived today.

I do love this little cat fabric so much: Alexander Henry's Indochine Kitty Kokeshi

*****Sharon, don't you think this is so cute??? *****

Orange is the New Black

2010-06-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not. But for now orange is my new favorite. I like it ~~almost~~ as much as I like aqua.

I was so happy to find Katie Jump Rope fat quarters at joann.

A Little Help For My DQS9 Partner

2010-06-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

As instructed, here is a little information for my annonymous DQS9 partner (and for my gracious, hard-working Swap Mama who needs information so she can pair me up with a like-minded quilter).

I've posted all this stuff in my flickr profile, too, and here is a previous blog post of mine that has less quilt information but more personal information. I hope this helps you!

Traditional blocks I like: snowball, bowtie, friendship star, whirlygiggle, shoo-fly, pinwheel, flying geese, x's blocks, plus blocks, hound's tooth, hexagons, 4-patch, 9-patch, coins.

I also like free-pieced just about anything--little houses, plus patch, flowers, log cabin blocks.

I like birds, cats, rabbits, sometimes chickens (nice chickens, serious chickens), and robots. A lot.

And while I appreciate them, I don't really care for gnomes or wonky 8-point stars (for myself).

Colors: Pastels as well as brights. I love just about any shade of blue or green--especially aqua. And recently, I've decided I love orange.

Colors I dislike: purple or a purple/fuchsia /pink combination.

Free-Pieced Baskets Quilt Top

2010-06-08T18:18:00.000-07:00

Free-pieced. So just how free are we talking here? Even though I didn't really measure anything to speak of,
and even though I didn't use my rotary cutter and ruler except to square up blocks at the very end, I had trouble getting these little baskets to be as wonky as I'd like. All those years of precision quilting came back to bite me in the butt.

Sewing

2010-06-06T11:25:00.001-07:00

Fabric for
Lila Tueller Designs Funked Out Peasant Blouse
Moda Oz and some from JoAnn

Shrub Rose from my deck.

Houseplant in our family room. It blooms a couple of times a year and I'm always fascinated by this bottle brush-looking thingy.

I'm Not Doing Nothing

2010-05-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

I may not be blogging but I am sewing. I made this Over The Top Tunic from an Indygo Junction pattern. Super-easy to construct and really, really comfortable to wear. I'm thinking I probably need a couple more.

Two Squirrels Embroidery

2010-04-22T12:14:00.000-07:00

Free pattern from Andrea Zuill's blog found here.
Creepy little squirrels.

This is my next embroidery--free pattern found here from Geninne's Art Blog. I am so happy to have found her blog. Beautiful art.

Pinwheel Party--First Six Blocks

2010-04-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

We partiers are in week seven of the Pinwheel Party quilt-along. These are the first half of 12 blocks. I like how it's beginning to look--pinwheels are a happy block.

Happy Easter

2010-04-02T13:13:00.001-07:00

Free-Pieced Flowers

2010-03-29T18:02:00.001-07:00

My free-pieced flower efforts made using this tutorial.

Pinwheel Blocks Two And Three

2010-03-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

Pinwheel Party blocks 2 and 3. The instructions are well-written, easy to follow, and the blocks go together quickly.

Makeup Bag

2010-03-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Photos from my walk yesterday.

These are not my cows; they're the neighbor's. New babies. I'm trying not to dwell on their destiny.

Daffodils, but not mine, either. Every spring for about the last 30 years I think, "Hmm, this fall I should plant bulbs, then I would have daffodils in the spring"... so far, I've not planted any and chances are pretty good I won't, but I may, but I probably won't.

I can't stand how much I like lady bugs.

And this is my latest make-up bag-- a gift for my friend, Sharon. I like making these bags a lot. The tutorial is here and it's super easy with easy-to-follow instructions.

Happy Monday.

Pinwheel Party : : Block 1

2010-03-04T04:30:00.000-08:00

My Pinwheel Party quilt-along first week's block is complete. So far, so good. I'm not going to
over- think this one. I'm just taking each week's block as it comes.

And the sunshine, when we have it, sure feels good.

Make-Up Bag

2010-03-02T12:26:00.000-08:00

This week we celebrated Brian's girlfriend's birthday. Part of her gift was this little make-up bag I made from this pattern found here.

Happy Birthday, Miss L.!

New On My Hill

2010-02-27T17:08:00.000-08:00

I do believe spring is here. We probably have plenty of rainy, cool days ahead
but I'm okay with that.

This tree has a very distinct fragrance. It smells a little odd to me but I do appreciate how it lets me know it's awake now and ready to begin again. I'm all for that.

I pulled my fabrics for Anina's Pinwheel Party--it begins this Monday. I am only using fabric I already had; that was the deal I made with myself.

Of course, that didn't keep me from buying some new fabrics this week anyway. You know, for other quilts.

Moda Oz

Red Rooster Jezebel

Happy Spring!

And P.S. May I say I'm not a big fan yet of Blogger's new post editor? Sheesh.

Brian Goes To Bolt

2010-02-22T10:19:00.000-08:00

On Saturday first-born son Brian got a haircut just a few doors down from Bolt. I love this store and I've never even been there because it's a 3-hour drive from where I live.

Brian is a graphic designer and sometimes he screen prints fabric. And sometimes we discuss fabric design. I guess he was listening when I said how much I love Japanese fabric.

This is what he brought me--Kokka and Lecien! Owls and deer and robots! Isn't he so sweet?
Thank you, Brian! I will put these to good use.

Anniversary

2010-02-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Today Mr. Hill and I celebrate our 33rd wedding anniversary.
Meant to be.
See? He's her lobster.

Building Houses

2010-02-18T11:17:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful, almost-spring day on Country Hill.

There really is a Country Hill and I really do live on it.

I hauled this one out of the closet and I'm

once again free-piecing houses for my Neighborhood quilt.

I am determined to finish it soon.

Nothing but solids.
I am becoming more comfortable with not being precise.

Happy almost spring!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-02-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

For Monday, February 15, 2010

Outside my window... rain.

I am thankful for... my husband; we have been married 33 years this week.

I am thinking... about a birthday gift for someone I know who's birthday is in one week.

I am going... to meet Brian at work and see his new studio today.

I am reading... NRA Guide To The Basics of Personal Protection In The Home (I know, right?)

I am hoping... to finish at least one sewing or quilting project this week.

Noticing that... Our Daphne is blooming and it smells so good.

Pondering these words... A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth up the bones. Proverbs 17:22

From the kitchen... gluten-free chicken noodle soup.

Picture for thought:

This little guy lives next door--I think I have the best neighbors!

To read other's entries, go to The Simple Woman's Daybook.

I Changed My Mind

2010-02-12T11:45:00.000-08:00

I can do that, right? Sure I can. I missed blogging. I stopped blogging because I was tired, really tired from holidays and just general busy-ness. But now I'm better. Not as tired. I am more rested physically and it helps to know I can also rest in the Lord. He says He will give us rest if we let Him. He's on our side. He is our refuge and our strength. So maybe I didn't wake up on January 1, 2010 rearin' to go, but a month and a half later I'm closer to it than I was. Anina's quilt-along will be my first quilting project for the new year.

See Ya

2010-01-15T17:05:00.000-08:00

As far as I can tell, this is my last blog post. For the few family and friends who were regular readers, thanks. I will continue to upload photos to my flickr account found here.

Molly

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

For today, January 11, 2010

Outside my window... fog.

I am thinking... about getting a real job.

I am thankful for... cashew butter and almond butter because peanuts are beans.

I am wearing... sweats and a wool sweater.

I am remembering... Martin--orange cat extraordinaire.

I am going... for a walk after breakfast.

I am reading... DEWEY The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron, but it makes me cry so I can only read a little at a time. It's taking a long time to complete the book.

I am hoping... for a trip to Atlanta.

On my mind... Yesterday's gone and tomorrow isn't here yet so live in the moment--easier said than done.

Noticing that... I need to clean my sewing machine.

Pondering these words..."It's never too late to be who you might have been."-George Elliot.

From the kitchen... l'air du bacon and coffee.

Around the house... quiet.

I am creating...a new bird block, a green polar fleece hat, a new tunic, and maybe even some chocolate chip cookies today.

I am hoping... for a little sunshine today--you never know.

I am hearing... the furnace.

One of my favorite things... the quiet.

A few plans for the rest of the week... work on paper-pieced bird block and Neighborhood quilt WIP.

Picture for thought... photo from my morning walk. I always say I don't like the fog, but this is kind of pretty.

To read other's entries, go to The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Gluten Free Sugar Cookies

2009-12-24T09:43:00.001-08:00

With just a touch of almond flavor, they're crispy and tasty and free of wheat and gluten. Love.

Merry Christmas!

Vintage Trims From My Mom

2009-12-21T04:00:00.000-08:00

Dear deer and birds from my mom who passed away many years ago. She was a simple woman with very little money, but she really seemed to like Christmas. These little figurines are precious to me.

Embroidered Cat Ornament

2009-12-18T14:44:00.001-08:00

Another small project--an embroidered cat ornament I mailed to someone I love and who loves cats like I do.

Furry Christmas!

Needle Book

2009-12-18T13:45:00.000-08:00

Since I'm feeling like only taking on simple projects, I made a needle book.* No pattern, no measurements, it ended up a bit larger than I really need--easier to spot in a sewing mess, I suppose. I like this one enough that I may make another.

*3" x 4", Robot Farm fabric designed and screen printed by first-born son, Brian.

Happy Birthday To My Sister

2009-12-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Nancy--and many more!

Birds

2009-12-10T15:23:00.000-08:00

Very little sewing on Country Hill except for this little stack of holiday coasters for my coffee table.

Festive fabric--all of seventy-five cents-worth from Jo-ann makes 8 coasters.

Our tree is a Nordmann Fir. It's so pretty and no needles on the carpet, no kidding. And this tree came with a bonus. I found a tiny hummingbird nest.

And speaking of hummingbirds, I have two or maybe more. I can't tell; they all look alike.

Isn't he just so cute--all puffed up and iridescent?

May your days be merry and bright,

You Are My Sunshine

2009-12-05T08:15:00.000-08:00

This will act as my sunshine for the next few months. 10,000 lux-worth of faux sunshine--light therapy for the winter blues. At 7 a.m. this morning here in the Pacific Northwest it was still pitch-black outside. I know.

But just 30 minutes each morning with my light box cures my wintertime apathy, irritability, fatigue, sadness, and intense craving for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (and any and all other carbohydrates). My light box is my friend.

This isn't very interesting stuff but I have no quilts to show, and keeping my promise to myself not to make any Christmas gifts, I have no projects to show either. Merry Christmas!

Goodbye November

2009-11-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

All of my Thanksgiving stuff is washed, dried, and put away.
And the last of my company has gone home.

We finished the leftovers.

After a couple of nice, long naps I'll be as good as new. And I'm looking forward to a peaceful December.

Happy, peaceful December.

Happy Birthday!

2009-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

My most precious and beloved second-born son is celebrating his twenty-fourth birthday today. Happy birthday, Lurvy (alias)--what a blessing you are. I am so happy to be your mom.

Bird Quilt

2009-11-18T16:08:00.000-08:00

Measures 23 inches x 23 inches--fuzzy photo; I'm not loving my camera right now.

My bird quilt is complete. I can't get enough of these little birds. I need more, especially after seeing this one. Ooh, and this one--a handsome blue jay! Thanks, Sarah (House of Krom) for the inspiration and encouragement!

I Am Thankful--No. 2

2009-11-06T20:36:00.001-08:00

Thou art my God, and I willl praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Psalms 118:29-29

Today I am thankful for

my kids

coffee

scripture which encourages me everyday

a warm house

bacon

Have a great, grateful day,

Little Bird Quilt

2009-11-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

My final fall tabletop quilt is complete and I am once again working on this little bird quilt. My inspiration is from Sarah's quilt found here. It's free-pieced which is why it's more difficult for me. As I have said before, free-piecing does not come easily to me. I'm hoping that will change with practice.

Have a delightful fall day!

I Am Thankful--No. 1

2009-10-31T19:01:00.000-07:00

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord,
and to sing praises unto thy name, O most high:
To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning,
and thy faithfulness every night.
Psalms 92:1-2

I enjoy reading Amy's I Am Thankful posts found here.

I have my own list. I am thankful for:

this beautiful time of year

my new-to-me Mac PowerBook

my family even though it's kind of small

my sewing machine

oranges

my church, my pastor, and his wife

my new closet system

heavy whipping cream

Now, what are you thankful for?

Have a great, grateful week.

Gluten-Free Muffins

2009-10-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

My favorite way to begin a weekend is with my favorite Sour Cream Blueberry Muffins. They are so good even gluten-eating folks love them. Yes they do.

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My kitchen table table topper is complete. These are dim photos; there is really no light to speak of inside or out--it's raining here in Oregon (surprise).

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And there is one more table runner on my list. The top is complete.

And more muffins.

Have a happy fall-like weekend!

Thanksgiving Coffee Table Runner

2009-10-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

This is all I have so far for my coffee table quilt--three shoo-fly blocks. Since it's true that fall is brilliant but brief, I'd better get busy.

The Best Shoes Ever

2009-10-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

Take a look at these shoes and tell me you don't think they are the cutest things you've ever seen. I really, really need these shoes.

Have a stylish day.

Pork Chop Eats His Broccoli

2009-10-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Have a healthful day.

Gobble Gobble Sneak Peak

2009-10-05T12:03:00.001-07:00

Here they are--the last of the strawberries have been picked. We had gluten-free strawberry shortcake--delicious. Now onto all things fall.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Here's a sneak peak at just how far one Gobble Gobble charm pack will really go. Two table toppers with leftovers.

I will remember to take photos earlier in the day when there is more light.

My Neighborhood

2009-10-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of my free-pieced house quilt, inspired by this quilt.
Free-piecing does not come naturally to me, nor is it comfortable. My brain fights not making straight lines. But now that I've made a few blocks I'm really starting to have fun, and these little houses are habit-forming.

As Long As I Have Strawberries...

2009-09-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

...I can pretend it's still summer. There's still a lot of fruit on these plants. It's not that I don't love fall--I do, but I'm just not ready for rain.

These are new Peanuts coasters I made yesterday. And I readily admit the fabric came from Jo-Ann. I love little sewing projects that go together quickly--instant gratification.

Happy Almost Fall,

Coneflowers--My DQS7 Quilt Has Arrived

2009-09-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

Just look at this amazing quilt I received from Kit. This little quilt was inspired by a photograph. It really is a little piece of art. Thank you so much, Kit--I am happy this little art quilt came to live with me.

And look at all the extra goodies she sent with the quilt.And kitty potholders!

New Robot Fabric--Robot Farm

2009-09-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

I have new custom screen printed fabric.

Brian (first-born son) and I designed it--mostly Brian, but I chose the colors (again, with Brian's help). Then, yesterday, Brian printed it. Here are some photos of the process.

We used Moda Solids--white.

Here's the ink--blue and yellow make green robots.

The screen.The first color.

And the second color.

Yay! Robot Farm!

Baby Bird Embroidery

2009-09-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

My latest embroidery project is complete--a baby bluebird. I hope to use it in a little quilt. Original artwork from my son, Brian.

Doll Quilt Swap 7 Quilt--Birdies

2009-09-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

My Doll Quilt Swap 7 quilt is finished. I didn't really have a pattern so trying to make the blocks fit together and come out square was a bit of a challenge for me--I was stretched. Still, I'm happy with the result and hope my partner likes it. I love these little birds.

Sarah's quilt found here was my inspiration. Adorable. The original block came from this book. But Sarah's birds are so much cuter because they are free-pieced. And speaking of free-piecing, although I love the results, free-piecing makes me uncomfortable--it's way out of my comfort zone. My brain only wants to be precise. Lately, most of the quilts that attract me are free-pieced. What to do. More stretching. And for the record, I have a free-pieced bird quilt in the works.

Gobble Gobble

2009-09-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

It's almost embarrassing how excited I can get over an eight-dollar charm pack. Forty-two of the best autumn prints and solids. Love.

I'm pretty sure this one is my favorite:Or maybe this one:But I love pumpkins, too...

I'm hoping they will turn into placemats for my Thanksgiving table.

What, Are You Kidding Me?

2009-08-24T15:44:00.000-07:00

This little maple tree lives in our front yard and its leaves have already turned. And it's not even September. It has always been the first to change colors but I think there's something seriously wrong here. I'm not ready for fall, are you?

DQS7 Progress

2009-08-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

This is what I have so far for my Doll Quilt Swap 7 quilt. The birds (could you tell they are birds?) still need there eyes and feet.

For A Real Baby

2009-08-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

I made the top of this quilt last February and blogged here that I didn't know any babies to give it to. But it turns out that now I do! So this quilt is on its way to brand-new baby girl, "N"--the baby of a friend of one of my kids. I am so pleased this quilt is going to a real baby!

I Have No Ikea

2009-08-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

I've wanted this fabric since I saw it here and here. It's from Ikea but not available online. The nearest Ikea store to me is over a three-hour drive. Brian was really paying attention when I said how much I loved it because the last time he was in Portland he bought me two yards! He's very sweet to go fabric shopping for his mom, don't you think? Thank you, Brian!

Summer

2009-08-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

Workin' hard or ...
...hardly workin'. Yep.A little of each, really. Even though I have unfinished quilting projects, summertime is just too nice to spend it indoors, and it will be over before we know it.
Enjoying summer, I am.

Triple Digits

2009-07-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

Hot here. Tonight we had Horchata. Made from rice with just a little cinnamon--refreshing and gluten free!

¡Salud!!

I Like Chickens

2009-07-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

I like chickens--but not silly ones. I like serious, respectable ones like this one.

This chicken artwork was done by my son, Brian--a gift for my birthday last year. Brian drew her; I embroidered her. Isn't she cute? She will probably find herself in a little quilt sometime soon.

Blessed Beyond Measure

2009-07-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Both kids home on the same weekend--this hasn't happened in years.

Life is so good.

Doll Quilt Swap 7!

2009-07-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

It's time for another round of Doll Quilt Swap. I'm pretty excited. Hurry and sign up here. The swap is limited to only 200 participants. Signups end Monday or when 200 have registered.

WIP

2009-07-09T11:14:00.001-07:00

It should turn out to be a purse. I hope so.

Here are some ants that were on my deck this morning...

And here's my boy eating them. He's always loved ants. Mmm.

Have a deliciously satisfying day!

in praise of guys who can fix things

2009-07-05T13:51:00.001-07:00

Mr. Country Hill can fix anything. Anything. And this weekend he proved it. He is my hero. Over the weekend our septic system failed. When the alarm sounds (and may I say it's a darned good thing septic systems have alarms), one should make haste to remedy the situation. I mean, we are dealing with p**p. And it's a holiday weekend.
So Mr. Country Hill replaced a failed pump thereby averting something unspeakable. And now it's all good. But I've heard enough "liquids and solids" talk to last me a good, long while. Eeww.

my heart is glad, my country is free

2009-07-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day!

Bow Ties Finished

2009-06-23T16:56:00.000-07:00

And I'm working on this little 8 X 10 red, white, and blue quilt:

I Love Little Quilts

2009-06-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is what I'm working on. I love to make little quilts. I used 12 Moda's Hello Betty charms, The directions to make the bow tie block are found here. This quilt measures approximately 12 x 16.

GIVEAWAY

2009-06-04T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's gloomy and rainy here in the Pacific Northwest. We've had some serious thunder and lightening. Napping weather.

So that's where I'm headed--to take a nap. But before I go, I want to tell you that Anina of Twiddletails is having a giveaway! A Moda charm pack of the Oh-Cherry-Oh variety. Y

All you have to do is answer one interesting question. And check out her website as well; she has a great collection of fabrics and patterns for sale.

Better

2009-06-01T18:56:00.001-07:00

I've been sick. I'm thankful for antibiotics--don't you know it!

So I did a lot of this:

And no sewing, really, except that I experimented with two of four bird blocks for my Birds In The Sun quilt (Sarah's design found here). And I made the sun. But I'm not happy with my color choices for the birds or the sun, so I'll keep at it, I guess.

Silly me, I didn't even notice that the wing-parts of both birds are of the same fabric--sheesh.

Here are some flowers from my containers.

And my strawberries are turning pink!

But these guys are so my enemies--earwigs!

And they are everywhere this time of year. I'm hoping they will leave the berries alone but why should they? They will eat anything. Since I don't use insecticide, I will have to hope for the best, this my first time growing strawberries.

Happy June!

Recess Coins

2009-05-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

My Recess Coins quilt is finished. For the binding I used hand tie-dyed cotton that I got at a quilt show about 15 years ago; I never really thought I'd use it up. You never know.

Lots and lots of coin quilt inspiration can be found here. Happy Mother's Day!