Threads from My Head

Hmmmm

2012-01-26T07:46:00.003-06:00

"Early" is looking like a dim memory........(I am not even out of my jammies)

Headin' to Texas on a Quilt Train

2012-01-26T00:21:00.000-06:00

O.K, so we only have an engine, a caboose, and a one track mind, but our destination is in sight-- Jefferson, Texas, and the "Quilts on the Bayou" show. Of course, our departure is set for early, but, that is always flexible. Early is relative. I mean, right now is early. It is eight minutes into Thursday. So, wish us a smooth journey, a sunny day to set up, and lots of shoppers with lots of enthusiasm. This is one of my favorite shows thanks to the terrific folks who put this show on. If I do not get a chance to add a thread or two over the weekend, please rest assured that I am thinking of you, and even feeling twinges of guilt.

A Quilter's Birthday Thoughts

2012-01-24T09:53:00.002-06:00

Today would have been my sister, Debbie's, birthday. All day, yesterday, I tried not to remember that...funny thing, the harder you try not to remember, you remember all the more. My birthday wish for you, my dear sweet Deb, will remain just that because, selfishly, it is my wish to hug you.

So, instead, I am going to do my best to think of us in Rome, remembering our fabulous laughing until we had to raise our skirts and pee in the street because we could not find a bathroom.

Quilter's Dread

2012-01-23T09:01:00.000-06:00

Groan. I thought I would try to muster up some sympathy. I have a dentist appointment in an hour. Enough said?? I am in Misery from "Open wide," to, "That comes to...oh, look, that just happens to be the same amount as our next mortgage payment for the new office...what a coincidence!".

Worn Out Quilter

2012-01-22T19:44:00.001-06:00

I am t-i-r-e-d. Hello, hubby was home the entire weekend. As you can see by the date, no chance to write since last Thursday. Busy, busy, busy.......how about you give me a few seconds to reflect........o.k., just a few more seconds to get the smile off my face........sigh....O.K., the truth is we did spend a good bit of time cleaning the garage. Hey, I can smile about more than one thing, can't I? I am now including this picture of the two cars in the garage mainly to prove to myself that we actually did get it to the point that both cars were in the garage at the same--I cannot even remember the last time that happened.

And, lest we forget -- THE book sitting beside our Walk The Three Day For the Cure donation jar. You do not even have to chose. You can do BOTH.

This Quilter is NUTS

2012-01-19T16:38:00.000-06:00

What was I thinking???? I was looking over my schedule for the first half of the year and looking at maps, and....I have us scheduled to be at a show in Dallas one weekend then in Lancaster, friggin' Pennsylvania, the following weekend. One and a half days to get there AND set up?????????? Dang, my Learjet is in the shop.

Wanna buy my book? call me at 318 243-2983 or 318 247-9725. You will be soooo happy you did, heh heh. I know I will be.

Cutsy Quilter

2012-01-18T13:45:00.002-06:00

Definitely harder to be "cutsy" these days.....

"I don't know who is shooting those arrows ofgrief, but they have a lot of them, each one an alchemist turning the initiallyhappy golden thought into leaden grief in an instant"

My brother is so amazing, so eloquent. He wrote that line in an email expressing his difficulty getting through parts of his day these days. It so sums up how I feel....our sister's car is now in our driveway making the big reality harder to cover up with one of my imaginary quilts. No quilt is that big.

The good news is that I am back from the Martha Pullen Show in Orlando, sleeping in my bed. The better news is how well received the book was. The best will be when the weekend comes and not only will I be here with the knowledge that the book has had a great start, but, TOM will be here, as well, sleeping (maybe not so much sleeping?) right next to me......

The return trip from Orlando went fairly smoothly except for just a few itty bitty bumps. Jeez, the biggest bumps were in the road, itself. I had heard several years ago that Louisiana was voted "worst roads in America" by 18-wheeler drivers. Hurmph. I do not think those guys were delivering in Florida. I would need new teeth if I were a regular on that pavement. The other "bumps" were gas and cell phone issues. (Are they putting gas stations further apart these days?) Hell-o-o, girls....

Brandy and I were frantically looking for the next exit-with-a-gas-station while the indicator needle was playing pat-a-cake with the light on the gauge. We had been deep in conversation for hours, playing with ideas of how to pack the car in less than 6 hours, how to stop being the very very last one to finish at every show, when..uh-oh..... What happened to the cars with the audible warnings???? Don't you think we should be able to carry on a simple conversation w/o having to check the gas gauge every few hours?!?!?!   Wait, an exit with gas...more uh-oh's...going too fast to turn...o-o-o-o-ops, I recognize that sound--more accurately, lack of sound--we are, officially, out-of-gas!. Luckily, we had that container for emergencies just like this. We put some in the tank. BE-U-tiful. The car started right up. The problem? We were just past the exit. So, I took a page from Mother's Convict's Book of Driving, and backed that baby down the interstate, onto that errant ramp, and GAS. No worries. Back on the road to home. It could have been so much worse.

About 30 minutes later, I start to give Tom an update on our whereabouts. Crap. Where is the phone? Hmmm.   I do seem to remember a certain noise as I got out of the car to get the gas. I thought it was the seat belt hitting the door frame. Do you wonder why I do my best NOT to think??? I used Brandy's phone to call mine and I get a very deep, very Southern, "Hello?"

"Who is this?" I ask.
"Someone who found this phone," he responded. Then, he added, "It ain't purdy, but it still seems to work!"

Amazing. That thump had been my cell phone falling out of the car. Even more amazing, I had apparently run over it with my car.

I would not make a very good hunter. I gave that phone a direct hit---still keeps on ticking! The guy was right, not purdy, but it still works. I am headed to the ATT store and see if they want me to do testimonials--after all, if I have to replace it, this will be my 7th phone in less than two years!

One thing before I close this lengthy, long overdue conversation. Thanks to all of you for your grrrreat support, for continuing to check in to see if I am still in the "weee-e-e-e-e-e-e" of my life. Love to each and every one.

Such a Good Quilter....

2012-01-09T21:46:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, as Brandy and I headed out to Orlando, we had just a few stops to make on the way. First stop, the bank. Second stop, FOOD. Third stop, Dillards. What happens so frequently is that I will find a great color lipstick only to find it is discontinued when I go to purchase more. This time I decided to buy at least a couple more tubes of the same lipstick, right away, before they even have a chance to discontinue it. I mean, I just bought this baby a week ago.

Uh-oh. Just as we got through the door of Dillards, there, on sale was a rack of great shawls. How can one pass up a fifty dollar item now selling for 16 bucks??? I bought two. My first Christmas presents for 2012, done. I am good.

I told Brandy, "Hurry, let's get over to the cosmetics counter. We are already running hours late."

Oh-oh. Look at those coats. Look at the price! Now I am going to be very good. I passed on not one, but two beautiful coats that fit perfectly and looked great. There is a special place in Heaven for me.

"Hurry, Brandy. We really need to get out of here..... "

Uh-oh. More sales in the Misses department... o.k., now I am getting past good to gr-r-rreat. I resisted so much -- I bought just one teensy weensy blouse and one really cute skirt.

"Brandy, really, we are in such a hurr ...ohmygosh -- Major UH-OH...the shoe department is right next to the cosmetics counter! And look, that awesome pair of black boots are on sale--the ones the saleslady told me just two days ago that NEVER goes on sale....jeez, they have my size. Heaven can wait.

Finally, to the cosmetics counter. The lipstick? You guessed it, discontinued!

And the Quilters are Off and Running...

2012-01-08T11:10:00.000-06:00

The Plan: trailer packed by Wednesday; clothes packed by Saturday; depart by 8 a.m. on Sunday. Reality: trailer still not completely packed (partly because we forgot to take the final photograph of the newest project which, of course, was one of the first items packed in the trailer so we would be sure not to forget it -- therefore, the trailer was unpacked on Saturday night); clothes? jeez, it is difficult enough to have to decide what to wear today, let alone what to wear each day for an entire week, puleeeze; and depart by 8 in the morning???? Get Real. When have we ever gotten our sh#$%&$## together in time to leave before lunchtime!! Who made out this plan, anyway? Oh, yeah, heh heh, I did. I knew there was a reason I liked Fiction. In my life, Fiction is Reality.

If you live in the Orlando area, I hope you will stop by this weekend for the Martha Pullen Show, come to our booth, give me a hug. One can never have too many hugs......

This Quilter, Daughter of a Convict

2012-01-08T01:13:00.000-06:00

Mother is apparently feeling more like her old self, again. She decided she wanted to drive to the beach house for our family Christmas and was not in the least bit interested in having assistance, or even company for that matter. We felt like this was a good sign since she has been so depressed, mainly because she is old, that she has not been interested in doing anything--not even shopping. Of course, when she drives she does a lot of what she calls "exploring." This means she takes a lot of wrong turns. She arrived in Gulf Shores in one piece. So far, so good. On the way home, she did some exploring. Half way up an exit ramp, she realized that she did not want to "explore" that route, and, instead of simply continuing up and then back down the next ramp, she decided to drive down the ramp, backwards. Surprise, there was a police officer just waiting for his next ba-a-a-d boy or girl and Mother was being bad, very very bad. So, one ticket, one towed car, and one call to the husband, later, the "convict" arrives home, again, in one piece. So far, not so good....

Quilter OOPS

2012-01-06T14:59:00.000-06:00

Hmm. One of my New Year's Resolutions was to try my best to add to this Thread each day. So much for that Resolution...I missed by day five. No excuses. So let's start with TODAY.

THE BOOK IS HERE!!!!!!! I love this whole process. What also arrived, today, by FEDEX no less, was a copy of the book signed by the wonderful folks from AQS. How totally thoughtful is that??? So, guess what I am going to be doing for the next hours before we leave for Orlando-- Writing labels, stuffing envelopes, and going to the mail box. So, later, gator, unless you want to come for a quick visit and stuff envelopes, too. I would make some GUMBO and homemade bread pudding. Wait, I think that sounds so delicious that I am going to let someone else make that gumbo and bread pudding. I am gonna wash it down with some Champagne!!!

Happy New Year from this Quilter

2012-01-04T14:15:00.000-06:00

I have this friend, Becky, who I have known for many years. She is incredibly bright and has talents that she takes for granted. One of those talents is writing poetry. What I mean by "taking it for granted" is that she says that what she does is not a gift--she thinks anyone can do this if they just try...ha ha ha ha. My gift to you is that I am going to re-gift and share her talent with you:

Happy New Year

What a difference one year makes - what difference just one hour.

What an amazing world this is - what magnificence; what power.

How fortunate we are, indeed, to have the chance to live.

What an opportunity - the chance to love and give.

Since Christmas last, what times we've had - so hard to see our way.

Yet we knew we were richly blessed - far more than we could say.

And so we were; and still we are to have a better measure

Of our worth; the way we live - that is our earthly treasure.

Our lives are filled up to the brim with a wide variety -

Smiles and tears; hopes and fears; need and prosperity.

And great the stage we are placed upon; great the writer/actor's lot

We have the power to write our lines, the power to set the plot.

So here is where we all are "now," and "then" is where we've been.

If only we had considered "now" before we determined "then."

What would we have better said? What would we do different then,

If we could write all our lines from "end" back to "begin."

So very easy it then would be to stage our annual play,

Having looked further down the road and planned the things we'd say.

Let's plan it all back from the bow! No, from the curtain's fall;

Back through the long stem rose we wave; back through the curtain call.

Back to our fellow actors - those whose hands we hold,

Who share our stage - hands lowered, raised - we chose, when truth be told!

Let's make it those we hold most dear with whom we take the bow.

With all our days so busy, it is best to plan that now.

As we write the lines we've said, as we act each in reverse

It will be easier to remember with less need to rehearse

Precisely we then hit our mark, working toward the curtain's rise!

How easy are the laughing lines; how simple are the cries.

When we are sure that all ends well, what fun the butterflies.

When we know the accolades will come, what's a little stage-fright?

How easy then our costumes don, how quickly do our make-up.

How easily we get a goodnight's sleep, right after we wake up!

As we back up to the present, we are nearing "now" at last.

So much of our success rides on the choosing of the cast.

Yet, if the audience is to proclaim our play "all the rage"

We must yet take most special care to select the proper stage.

Yes, what a difficult task we face as we start each New Year,

What kind of play will we produce? Will it be met with cheers?

So now we have the empty page and now the pen in hand
And now the motivation: let's make this one grand!

Happy New Year!

Quilter Quandry

2012-01-03T11:40:00.000-06:00

Peas, Lobster, Carrots???....

The old saying goes that you should eat black-eyed peas for good financial luck throughout the coming year. So far, that has not been very successful for moi. So, I am looking for some new suggestions.

First, I asked Connie, a delightful friend for advice. She hates peas. She told me that she had asked another friend in Atlanta if she had eaten the peas. She said, "No, I had lobster. Po' folks eat black-eyed peas and stay po'. Rich folks eat lobster and stay rich."

Next, I asked my son, Chris, if he ate peas. He also hates peas, and he is a student studying Oriental medicine/culture. He said, according to Asian belief, one must eat something orange for 28 consecutive days to get financial bliss

Now, I have just two questions before I begin--does Lobster sauce count? and, what about orange Peeps? Jelly Bellies? Candy Corn?

Suggestions?

Home At Last

2012-01-01T21:15:00.000-06:00

We are finally home. Wow, if I had known how much mail I would be facing, I would have run back to the beach house where we spent Christmas. Of course, if running away made icky stuff disappear, I would have done a marathon this last month, that is for sure.

Guess what? "THE" book is in from the printers and on its way to me!! My goals are modest--I just want a few things...(1) I want my book to set the record for the most quilting books sold, (2) I want it to set a record for the most $$ made, and, (3) set a record for the most reprints. It this asking too much? Don't answer that, I prefer my delusions to reality.

Many many thanks to those of you who continued to check in on me, to those of you who wrote, sent the beautiful, thoughtful cards, the prayers....

a belated Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year

Quilter Sneaks One In

2011-12-08T12:50:00.001-06:00

What a nice thing, for me, at least. I just discovered after lo' these many years that I can add to my Threads on another computer. Is this a good thing? Will I now have no excuse to "not" write? Hmmmmm.

We are still in the process of working our way through the legal phase of a death in addition to all of the other issues. I am probably going repeat this a LOT over the next several Threads-- GET A WILL, Get an organized plan that is easy for anyone to follow...How about, first, a list of who should be called, like friends and family along with phone numbers. Next, where the documents are for EVERYTHING. That is only a start, but, believe me, c-r-i-t-i-c-a-l. Lecture over for the moment.

The nice thing for the day? I just found out that the printing company who is handling my book has already send AQS the preview copy!! Whoopee. This is coming to fuition, big time. Get your Christmas wish fulfilled...well, at least my Christmas wishes, heh heh. Hugs to you alllll.

Quilter in Avoidance--and this is something NEW??

2011-12-02T15:17:00.001-06:00

In avoidance mode more that ever these days.... I finished this jacket instead of working on "the necessary." Hey, who says what necessary is? Two young folks were helping Gramma Barbara (Barbara Crawford Designs) and Grampa Mike in a booth a few shows ago. The kids were busy using as many colors of wool as they could get their hands on. My kind of kids! So, I hired them to do some designs on a sweatshirt. I just added the zipper and the cuffs. Don't you just love the whimsey?

Now, for a major reality check--I am leaving in little while for my sister's house to pack it up. I have no idea when I will be back but please do not forget about me. I need you guys more than ever. Your comments and prayers have kept me going. Later.....

Good Morning, Quilters

2011-12-01T06:42:00.001-06:00

It is early... still dark both inside and out, but I am imagining a better day. Let's start by regrouping with my Christmas gift to you. Not that it is hard, but, have you figured out what the pattern is for? How about a picture? Hmmm. Where-o-where could she have gotten such cute fabric???? Double "hmmmm."

Body: Muslin or fabric of choice, 13" x WOF (width of fabric)

Top Ruffle: 1 piece cut 9" X WOF ( 1/4 yard, or, one piece (9" x 40")

Middle Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 9" x WOF (1/2 yard, or, one piece 9" x 80")

Bottom Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 8" x WOF ( 1/2 yard or, one piece 8" x 80")

Waist Band: 7" x 68 1/2" (1/2 yard cut into four pieces, each 7" x 17 1/2")

Wide Rick Rack, 3 packages (optional)

Directions: Trim all selvedge edges. If piecing middle and bottom ruffles, sew 2 of the same color ruffle strips along the 9" sides, right sides together. Repeat for the second ( 8" ) ruffle pieces.

Hem ruffle by turning one of the longer ruffle edges under 1/4". Press. Then press under, again, 1/4". Sew in place. Repeat for the other two ruffles.

If using the optional Rick Rack, sew a row of the Rick Rack to the front side of the hemmed edge of each ruffle.

With a removable pen, mark a line 7" down from the top edge of the muslin piece. The line should go from side to side, the entire width of the muslin.

Bottom Ruffle: Sew a gathering stitch along the remaining long unhemmed edge, 1/4" from edge. Pull gathering stitches until the ruffle matches the width of the muslin piece (hint: I like to mark the middle of the ruffle as well as the middle of the muslin so I can be assured that the ruffle is more evenly spaced.) Avoid gathers at the outside edges for about an inch in from both ends. Pin ruffle to bottom edge of muslin, right sides together, raw edges matching. Sew in a 3/8" seam. Press seam towards the muslin, and then top stitch the seamed edge. Press under side edges 1/4" to the wrong side of the muslin/ruffle piece. Press under, again, 1/2". Stitch in place.

to be continued.....

Serendipitous Finds

2011-11-29T12:10:00.001-06:00

Serendipitous Finds are exactly that...the little surprises that are perfect for the moment. I have two that landed in my space over the last few days. As we were driving down to the memorial, this comment was on a card at a restaurant: It is not the years in a life, it is the life in the years.....

The second was in a silly book of games: Life is a continuous process of getting used to the thing we did not expect.

Kind of takes your breath, doesn't it?

Quilter Returns Home

2011-11-28T20:29:00.001-06:00

Such as it is. My sweet hubbie and I just arrived home a few minutes ago. We left our daughter, Brandy, with my niece, Sigrid, back in Ocean Springs. There is such a short time before she has to return home to Sweden and so much to be accomplished. In a few days, I, too, will return to help go through a life-- my sister's beloved collection of fun and funk. We have always been drawn to similar things, having made a pact years ago that the first one who spied a treasure had "first dibs." Of course, all she had to do for me to give up my first dib rights was to say, "Oh Dianne, please, please, please," and I was a goner, she was the receiver. So, needless to say, she has a lot of treasures. What she did not know was that she was the best treasure of all.

Here is a poem that I thought you might enjoy. I read this at the memorial, yesterday. While the weather was wet and cold, the memorial was beautiful and warm...so many wonderful friends paying their respects and giving with their hearts.

Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Guilt, and Acceptance

During our walk you broke from our path and went your own way.

You didn't have time to look back.

I didn't think to call out to you and I hardly remembered to watch

your silhouette as it faded from sight.

Had I known, my angel, I would have touched your face

and looked into your eyes to recall everything I could fit

into my mind about you.

How I wish I could turn them into tangible things to hold onto now,

but they can't replace you and the hope that there will be more.

If only's and regrets, promises of a better place and your legacies await me.

I envy your freedom.

It is a sad twist to mourn the dead and rejoice for the living.

Reason will come, bringing the revolutions of the cycle,

of which together we are still a part.

by Kathy Milazzo

Just one more HUGE thank you to all who took part in any aspect of this process. It does help....

The Perfect Container

2011-11-25T16:41:00.001-06:00

Ever try choosing the "perfect container" for your sister's remains? That has to be the weirdest shopping experience I, or anyone else, could ever have

We received a call from the funeral home, today. They wanted to let us know that the deed was done. Our sister is cremated. I know I am being ridiculous, but I had the strangest feeling that she was not dead...that they did this without checking to see if she was really gone. Such a nightmare this has been and continues to be.

I am doing my best to move on, to get through this......let's do this together, my friends.

A Quilter's Suggestion

2011-11-23T09:36:00.001-06:00

At the risk of repeating myself, a lot, I will say, again--Hug each other until it makes your arms hurt.

Before I Leave

2011-11-22T19:18:00.001-06:00

Before I leave, I will try to add a bit to the pattern:

With a removable pen, mark a line 7" down from the top edge of the muslin piece. The line should go from side to side, the entire width of the muslin.

2011-11-22T09:16:00.001-06:00

I need a little help, here. A reader who goes by the "name," Shellerina, contacted me asking questions about the wedding quilt that I posted several months back. I just found her comment, today, gulp. (long story) Anyway, I do not want to ignore her question, so, hopefully, she is not so angry with me for not responding that she has given up on me, altogether. Hi, Shellerina, please let me know how to contact you about the quilt.

Now, if I do not add to this blog for the next several days, it is because we have left for New Orleans and the dreaded week ahead of us. My sister arrives in New Orleans, today. The rest of our family arrives on Wednesday...The weird thoughts that are traveling around my head--I mean, I was so looking forward to seeing my dear brothers. Then, it occurred to me, this morning, it just makes it so much more real that they will be there and my sister will not. Now, dread is my dominant emotion....

Please, all of you have a great Thanksgiving. Hug everyone you know. I will be giving thanks for all of the amazing love and support that has poured out of you guys. So, again, I thank you.

Quilting Fun

2011-11-22T09:00:00.001-06:00

Definitely room for lots of fun with so much sadness in our hearts so let's add to the directions:( I decided to start doing this in red and green due to the impending season, and, it is a gift)

If using the optional rickrack, sew a row of rickrack to front side of the hemmed edge of each ruffle. (I used a different color rickrack for each of the three ruffles.)

Almost forgot...

2011-11-21T13:18:00.001-06:00

more directions:

Press one of the longer ruffle edges under 1/4" and then press under, again, 1/4" Sew in place. Repeat for the other two ruffles.

Did I mention that the first person to send me a picture of the completed item will get a free yard of fabric? Did I also mention that I will be selling this pattern after this, not, giving it away???

This Quilter's Life...

2011-11-21T07:26:00.001-06:00

My husband. Have I ever mentioned that he is the light of my life? Well, that has nothing to do with anything right now, not really. I just wanted to mention that.

He came home from Arkansas so quickly that he did not bring his shaving kit, his clothes, anything but his wonderful self. That was on stupid, sucky Thursday. On Friday he said he felt he should go see his mother and his brother in Alabama. I think that he, too, had to see, feel, touch, more.... The more family, the better. Reassure himself that all was the "same," somewhere. So, Saturday morning he headed out with the plan to drive up to his apartment, first, then on to Birmingham. A few hours later he called to say that he had forgotten to go to his apartment...he was already in Mississippi. I told him, "So what? buy some socks and underwear and keep on going." By Sunday morning he was at his brother's house, reassuring himself that all was as well as it could be there (his brother has Parkinson's, his sister-in-law was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and his mother is 93, deaf, blind, and her mind is unstable. What is "normal?" Oh yeah, I said, "all was the same, somewhere."...) had lunch and headed back home. His plan was to be home by Sunday night. The best laid plans... He had a flat on the interstate. He called to say that the emergency tire was horrible and he was spending the night in Tuscaloosa so he could get new tires, Monday. Just as long as that guy makes it back into my arms by tonight, I am as good as I can be at this time in my life. I know that was probably boring to the rest of the world, but, you know what? I crave boring right now.

A Little More...

2011-11-20T18:46:00.001-06:00

If piecing middle and bottom ruffles, sew 2 of the same color ruffle strips along the 9" sides, right sides together. Repeat for the second ruffle. (8" sides)

Quilter Has a Bit of Good News

2011-11-20T10:35:00.001-06:00

In this chaos, I forgot to mention that I found out that my manuscript is scheduled to go to the printer's on Monday. I believe that is about 6 weeks earlier than expected. Dare I hope to get the book before the year is out? I look forward to anything that will take my mind off of "reality overload." I am such a firm believer in keeping busy, maniacally busy when the need arises. Well, Need has risen her ugly head. Right now, I am trying to reclaim the house from the water damage, clean everything, cut fabric, make patterns, assemble kits, sew some of my list of projects, whatever. To be honest, it is not really working. I am getting a lot done....

Quilty Pattern

2011-11-19T20:19:00.001-06:00

So Far, So Good...let's collect the data to date:

Body: Muslin 13" x WOF

Top Ruffle: 1 piece cut 9" x WOF ( 1/4 yard, or one piece 9" x 40")

Middle Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 9" x WOF ( 1/2 yard, or, one piece 9" x 80")

Bottom Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 8" x WOF ( 1/2 yard, or, one piece 8"x 80")

Waist Band: 7" x 68 1/2" (or 1/2 yard cut into four 7" x 17 1/2")

Wide Rick Rack, 3 packages (optional)

Directions: Trim all selvedge edges.

All the Days

2011-11-19T19:38:00.001-06:00

All of the days are blurring into one another. My head hurts, my heart hurts....

When I was 13, we had two dogs, a Chihuahua, Timmy, and a Beagle, Snuffie. They loved each other. They slept, spooned together, all the time. Snuffie was much larger but was the baby of the family. Each morning both dogs would go out together. Always, Timmie would return first. After some not-so-patient waiting and tapping of his impatient little doggie paws, he would go back out and retrieve the errant "baby." Same routine, every day. Then, one day, Snuffie was killed by a hit-and-run driver. Each day, after that, Timmie would go out, then return. He would wait, as usual, then go out to get Snuffie. He would come home, wait some more, and go looking and returning, obviously, alone. He never ate, again; he rarely slept. Within less than a month, he, too, died. He had truly died of a broken heart.

I know how he felt.

It's Crazy Here

2011-11-19T10:54:00.001-06:00

It seems crazy for me to continue adding parts of my new pattern, like nothing has changed in my life. To the contrary, everything is changed. Nothing will ever have quite the level of joy, the same meaning to me. Sorry if that sounds too dramatic, but, it is a dramatic situation. If this is a movie, it is a horror show and I want to find the exit door.

I was able to talk to my sister's roommate/friend this morning. She said Deb's last words were "We-e-e-e-e" as she took her feet off the cycle, sticking them out in the air, flying ahead of the others, trying to get them to go faster.....flying into the hands of the angels.

So, please forgive me if it seems like I am not respectful enough or thoughtful enough. I just have to find some sense of "normal" so, I will continue to add to the pattern--clinging to what life was like on November 16th.....

Waist band: 7" X 68 1/2" (or, if piecing, 1/2 yard cut into four pieces, each 7" x 17 1/2")

Quilter's New Pattern

2011-11-18T20:26:00.001-06:00

Next addition:

Bottom Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 8 " x WOF (1/2 yard) (or one piece 8" x 80")

Cudos

2011-11-18T16:39:00.001-06:00

I would like to say something positive about the ordeal that our family is going through. We have been contacted by several representatives from Carnival Cruise Line, a Mexican funeral home, an American Funeral home, as well as members of the American Consulate in Cozumel. Everyone has been beyond kind, beyond thoughtful, beyond helpful. Their compassion has been amazing. A person from Carnival was left in Cozumel just to wait for us to get there so we would have a liason to help with getting our sister back to America. They have made a potentially complicated, stressful process, much less so by their assistance. While I realize they will never read this, it makes me feel better to have something good to say. Again, to all of you who are thinking of us, praying for us, supporting us in any way, Thank you from me and my family.

To LIghten the Mood...

2011-11-18T12:32:00.001-06:00

Part III -- What could this bee?

Middle Ruffle: 2 pieces cut 9" x WOF ( 1/2 yard or one piece 9" x 80" )

Thank You, My Friends

2011-11-18T09:18:00.001-06:00

Thank you to each and every one of you who have me in your thoughts at this time in my life. None of this seems real. My sister was on a dancing cruise that traveled to ports in Mexico. At Cozumel, she went on shore and rented a motorcycle. Apparently she lost control of the vehicle and was killed, never making it to a hospital. I am glad to say she died doing what she loved. I am angry that I cannot tell her, yet again, how dangerous motorcycles are and why would she get on one???? I know this happens to families every day. What I don't know is how they get through it.

Again, I thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers.

What Dinner? part II

2011-11-17T23:37:00.001-06:00

Top Ruffle: 1 piece cut 9" x WOF ( 1/4 yard or one piece 9" x 40")

Hmmm. what could we be cooking up?

My Heart Breaks

2011-11-17T20:02:00.001-06:00

In memory of my wonderful sister, and best friend, Debbie, who loved life and lived it to the fullest, all the while supporting every crazy idea I have ever had. My memories of our trip to Rome makes me laugh to this day. I will miss you every day for the rest of my life.

Deborah Lee Emery

January 24, 1951-November 17, 2011

One Quilter's Gift

2011-11-17T12:13:00.001-06:00

Here's a taste of my newest pattern, a.k.a., What Dinner?

Body: Muslin 13" X WOF

More to come......

Come On Quilters

2011-11-16T11:15:00.001-06:00

Check out this terrific photo of our booth in Houston. (I finally found the cord for downloading the images, heh heh) Makes ya wanna hop in the car and drive straight down to Houston and run, not walk, right up to our booth, doesn't it? Oops, too late. However, we were delighted with the response to my newest rug design. We have started giving away free patterns all the time if folks buy at least three yards of fabric. Seems like most people are affected, as am I, by the magic of "FREE." Fabric jumped off the shelves and into folks bags. The most popular pattern? You guessed it -- the Rug Pattern. In fact, many of the other vendors have been purchasing the pattern. Looks like we might just see a plethora of these guys on floors, everywhere ! Waaaay fun.

Every bit as fun is the next item--a pair of jumpers made with our fabrics. Lois Hoger of Iowa made these sweet babies for her sweet grandchildren. How proud am I to be part of that ? HUGELY, thanks so much Lois, for choosing our fabrics.

This Quilter is HOME

2011-11-08T07:50:00.000-06:00

I do not think that I even moved last night. Someone could have been standing in the doorway of my house, charging for entry, and I would have paid the fee, no questions asked. Lordy, what is it about one's own bed????

We had a great time in Houston. It did not hurt that we were staying at our son, Chris's, and daughter-in-law, Kat's, house and that it was one of our best shows, ever. It also did not hurt that we spent most of the time talking about "the" book and getting such great feedback. Did I mention that I am now doing the final editing? Wow, it does not seem real. At least it does not seem like it is "all about Me." Of course, it is not. This truly is taking a Village.

We took pictures, too. I just have to find the camera in the item we call a car. It looks more like a homeless person's grocery cart with everything they own in a large messy pile. Luckily we drive it as opposed to pushing it. Jeez. I just remembered. We have to empty it, today, so I can drive to Monticello. Sigh. No rest for this very very weary quilter--the good news, there is definitely some s..., um, fun, in my future...my husband lives in Monticello. heh heh.

Quilter Heaven

2011-11-01T07:55:00.000-05:00

Well, I am not realllly in Heaven, it just seems like it. I mean, here I am in Houston, at Market, no booth to set up, and my only job? Walking up and down the isles meeting and greeting all the terrific folks. I just love Bernie, Gloria, Aaron and Debbie, Barbara and Michael, Kathy Alice, Barbara (another one -- there are a lot of Barbara's), Caryl Fallert, Darlene, Mary, ...well you get the gist. It feels like my very own party. The best part? I did not have to clean my house or cook the food, heh heh.

My hair definitely got reactions. Some great, some not so great. The scariest part? I am not only starting to get used to that reflection, I am starting to like it. Gulp.

One of the most interesting serendipitous meetings was when I noticed a large line of women at one booth. I stopped to talk to one of the ladies to find out what the attraction was that was causing the line. It was a book signing and she just happened to be a book critique and was very interested when she found out about my book (hey, I have very little control over my mouth...sometimes words fall out that I have no control over. This time it just had something to do with my book, and, well, I just might have mentioned my desire to be a "Hooker.")

By the way, I need some action on the comment section, guys. I miss it when you do not bolster my ego. I am not too proud to beg......thanks, again, for being there, for the great support.

Quilter's BIG OOPS

2011-10-29T19:47:00.000-05:00

Well, there we were, in Houston, this morning. Then, we discovered this same morning what was NOT in Houston were the new fabric designs that I had worked on. After searching the entire car and trailer, we called a neighbor back in Ruston and asked her to stop everything and go look in our house for the folder. There it was, right on he sewing room floor. Definitely not where it was supposed to be. So, we just arrived home a few minutes ago and are now about to head right back down to Houston. Nothing quite like a 12 hour, unplanned trip. No stress. No wasted gas, no....well, you get the idea. I keep telling people that my memory is shorter than my hair and this cinches it. Sigh.

How about some humor? Here is a shot of my "new look" for October. I am trying to decide whether or not to keep my hair this color until I reach my goal for the Walk for the Cure, 2012. Whatchathink? Halloween scary? Well, hurry and donate so I can get my own hair back, hurry hurry hurry......

Quilters Head to Houston

2011-10-27T15:15:00.000-05:00

Surprise, surprise, surprise --- we are heading out, again, this time to the "Big One," Houston. Those of you who are my BFF's, THANK YOU for keeping up the good effort and stopping by to see if I am still here, still breathing, still writing --oops, that last one is, um, not very evident, that is for sure. It is not because you guys and the blog are not on my mind, it is mainly because I am not clever enough to figure out how to add to this while I am away from my regular computer. I have several pictures to add but I am running waaaaay late so here is one. This is a picture of my walking pals, Tunisha and Sarah and, I, on the last few steps of the 60 Mile Walk. The gal in the middle broke down and cried as she crossed the finish line. Then, I cried, too, for her. To be honest, I have no idea how she made it at all. She was in such pain that she gasped with every step the entire day. These folks are amazing. I am so proud to be part of this effort. Color me, "Proud in Pink." Thanks for your support, for keeping up with me, for checking in....whatever. Just know how much I appreciate it.

Quilter Survives 60 Mile Walk For a Cure

2011-10-24T06:03:00.000-05:00

Well, it is over for one more year. I have to say that I was proud to have finished this one since I had so little time to really practice. Again, not one blister. Was I ever lucky. The really amazing folks are the ones covered in blisters, bandaged legs, feet, shins, etc., who keep on walking, well, limping. They cry if the medics tell them they cannot continue. The dedication of these men and women is beyond amazing. I met two great gals, Sara from Tampa, Florida, and Tunisha, from Atlanta. They became my walking partners and made it all way more fun. Tunisha was hurting so badly, I cannot believe she finished the walk, but she did. It made me cry to see her continue, to see her hurting...and cry with pride that I was part of her ordeal. We have made a pact to meet and walk in two years. So, here I go, again. Why stop now? Start saving your pennies and dimes, boys and girls. I will be asking for them soon.

As soon as I get home I will start posting some pictures of our walk. Thanks for checking in. I am waaaay too tired to be clever, so, apologies in advance.

Say a Little Prayer for this Quilter

2011-10-13T22:47:00.001-05:00

A Little Prayer??? Right now I am saying lots of them....I mean, I have not been doing my practice walking for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walk like I should be in order to be really prepared. I need something and prayers seem like as good a direction as any. The list: feet, calves, knees, toes, back, oh my, the list goes on and on and on...all are gonna need help, BIG TIME. You have until next week-end to send any good thoughts my way. My daughter-in-law gives massages for a living. Where is she when I neeeeeed her? Hellooooo.

Quilter's Sneak Preview #2

2011-10-12T19:16:00.000-05:00

Sh-h-h-h-h. I am going to sneak in a picture of one of the projects in The Book...Let me know whatcha think. It was BEYOND fun to make. The reaction to some of our other lamps/lampshades has been delightful. I hope this baby gets even bigger grins. Makes me wanna re-decorate a room. Hey, I am right in the middle of fixing rooms throughout the house due to the water damage...my husband' office is really boring.........Yeah, right. He was complaining about a vase that I put in there yesterday saying it was awfully, "girly"and it only had birds on it. He would probably move his computer to the living room right by the TV and permanently set it to the sports channel. I might never see him again. Jeez. All right already.

What is that Quilter Working On?

2011-10-12T12:22:00.000-05:00

Pictures, I finally took some...Proof that I have been doing something. The person I need to prove it to? MYSELF. Of course, if one looks at the images of the sewing room, one might think, wow, this is waaay too clean for someone who is actually accomplishing things. Well, I simply took these pictures to prove that there is a top to these tables. Normally, they are covered beyond recognition. However, we are in the process of putting things back together in the "after the water" mode and I thought I would capture this "clean room moment" for posterity.

As for the remaining two images, they are part of the rug that I am doing for Roc-Lon. They requested a water theme out of our fabrics. The room that rug is in is definitely not part of the "clean room moment." Nope, nada, not gonna happen......

Quilter Finds Secret (Chocolate) Garden

2011-10-11T19:50:00.001-05:00

Oh boy, did I find Chocolate Heaven. Truthfully, it is really called Chocolate Garden. Somewhere, in Nowhere, Michigan, on our way through to Des Moines, there was a billbord--Chocolate Garden, Exit ? (whatever). Nuff said.

This little shop, actually resides in Coloma, Michigan. Like I said, "nowhere." This shop sells the best chocolate that I have ever eaten, period. It is worth the detour, I don't care if you live in Florida!! Look it up. Set the GPS. Drive. Eat. Buy me some to thank me.....

Quilter Goes Mad

2011-10-08T12:15:00.000-05:00

Runningaroundincircles, meetingmyselfcomingandgoing, cannotrememberanything, notsleeping.....does this mean I am officially nuts? Why is no one noticing the difference? Oh yeah, I have always been like this. When I actually start looking for my List, and begin trying to check things off of it as "done," even I get worried. Avoiding that List is usually what gets things done. O.K., so they are not the things that are the most important, but, waaaay funner.

We have run out of nearly everything in the way of patterns and appliques. We need to cut MPC pieces, and fabric, lots and lots of fabrics, etc. We need to repack the trailer, send orders.....all on the List. Oh yeah, I am supposed to make a ten foot rug for Roc-Lon before I head to the Susan G Komen 3 Day Walk.....Talk about TOP of the List !! So, the night we got in from our last gigs, we crashed around midnight. I woke up at 2 in the morning with a bazillion things on my mind. So, I got up and took down all the stuff on the walls of the sewing room, then washed the walls and painted the room. Then, I repainted the corner cabinet in the Hallway, moved furniture, cleaned drapery, etc etc.... See what I mean? None of these tasks were on that List....well, they were somewhere on there but that List is so long and they are so far down on the List that I could not find them, anyway, so what difference does that make? Does anyone out there even care? OHMYGOSH, now I am talking to myself. Creepy.

Shame on this Quilter

2011-10-06T20:13:00.003-05:00

Shame on me.. Not only have I not taken the time to write, I do not even have any pictures to show as enticement for coming back or for even checking in on me at all. The Novi Show was wonderful. Everyone was just great. It was more of an ego trip, to be sure. One gal said, "Dianne Springer? Oh my gosh, my BFF writes about you on her blog and here I am with you, in person." She even had her husband take a picture of us together. Now, it does not get any better than that, does it? Good thing I don't have many hats because I might have trouble getting them on after that delightful encounter. The only bad thing was the part where we were packing up to head to Des Moines. It took us until nearly midnight to finish packing the trailer, then, we drove all day the next day to Iowa, set up the day after that, and then the show went from Wednesday until Saturday. We drove for two days to get home then, one would think we were done driving but, nooooo. We both had hair appointments 30 miles away the very next day. Now, I am not MOVING for as long as I can get away with it.

Quilters on the Road, Again

2011-09-19T09:14:00.000-05:00

Here we go, again. We are off and running, well, driving, to Novi, Michigan, for American Sewing Expo and then immediately on to Des Moines for the AQS show. This will be a busy time. I am teaching two classes and really looking forward to it. We have been packaging, packing (yes, those are two different things) and cutting, and,...whatever. I trick myself into thinking I am leaving this water damage mess and chaos behind, then, I remember the setting up, manning the booth, teaching the classes, taking down,driving to the next show, then ,Repeat. Who am I kidding? I live in chaos. Yikes, I just remembered, I have not packed my clothes. Teaching "au natural" might not go over very well, ya think????

I hope to see some of you there. Please stop by and introduce yourselves. Of course, I might have met you before, but, I have nada for a memory bank, so.....please be forgiving. Oh, we are introducing a new product, surprise surprise -- it is a mini-clipboard. Cute, if I do say so, myself.

(Oh, dare I forget to add: remember THE book, Scrap-O-Lator, heh heh)

Day in the Life of a Quilter

2011-09-16T17:00:00.001-05:00

Well, to be truthful this day had nothing to do with quilting. First, I had a 9 a.m. hair appointment in a town 38 miles away. Criminy Sake, I only have an hour to get a bath and get ready and drive there--hit the ground running, Missy. Now, I am following the fastest vehicle so I won't be the first one zapped for speeding. Fabulous, he is going 80, heh heh. I am definitely going to be late; it is just a matter of how late. Hmmm. How much money did I bring with me? ( Checking the purse while driving....) "Holy Cow, where is my wallet?????? Oh well, I can go to an ATM....No, I need the card to make a withdrawal....sigh. oops, that also means I have no driver's license. Double oops, I realized that my license expired two days ago on my Birthday. Sh-h-h-h-h

After the Quilter's Day Off

2011-09-15T11:09:00.000-05:00

I could get spoiled by days like yesterday. We went to a lovely place for my birthday lunch. Fried oysters, YUMMM. Then, we had several errands to run but we decided to shop, instead. I totally love bargains. I know that is so unique to me...Yeah, right. I bought two fabulous long dresses, thinking where will I ever wear these? Who cares? Anyway, my husband called and told me he had changed his mind about waiting until the weekend to celebrate my birthday. Instead, he made reservations at the nicest place in town and made the three hour drive home after he got off work. Of course, we ran late getting home from shopping so I dressed in the car (usually I get undressed in the car, ponder that for a second) and put on one of those fabulous dresses. Funny thing, my husband kept drooling even before we ordered food, heh heh.

Then, when we got home, there were gifts waiting. I got a new printer, a new GPS, and, remember the "nasty purse?" Well, my hubbie even picked out the right one without even asking for a clue as to which purse I had "marked." I knew I married the right guy!!!!! Then, there was one more awesome gift,..................... oh, nevermind. I am sure you are jealous enough already, heh heh

News Flash, Quilter Celebrates Birthday

2011-09-14T08:18:00.001-05:00

Yep, it's that time of year, again, MY BIRTHDAY. So, I am going to do the direct opposite of what I need to be doing and stop everything to go have a relaxing day with Brandy and my friend, Jan. We are going to shop and have a fun lunch, all the while trying to forget how friggin' old I am. Margaritaville, here I come.

Quilty Chairs

2011-09-12T13:14:00.001-05:00

Wow, I just got an email from a delightful gal who made some chairs from my Quilt on a Chair pattern. In the pattern I tell you that I had so much fun I could not stop at just one. It seems Joyce feels the same way. (and I quote, " I had fun making these and lovethe way they turned out.") Aren't her chairs pretty? Do you really want to be left out of the FUN? Shoot, if I can find the time I might just go make more, heh heh ...

If you have not already tried these babies, the pattern will be included in the new book, "Scrap-O-Lator Quilts and More" out February, 2012 (Don't you just love embarrassingly blatant hints?).

How about a cute quote I saw while visiting Paducah:

Three Wise Women

would have...

Asked directions,

Arrived on time,

Helped deliver the baby,

Cleaned the stable,

Made a casserole,

Brought practical gifts,

and

There would be

Peace on Earth.

Quilting on Hold

2011-09-10T08:37:00.000-05:00

Online, at last. Not only have I been out of town with no time to log onto the internet, we had to totally dismantle the computers so the furniture could be moved for the repairs. So even if I had been home it would have been nada unless I went into town. I missed writing. Hopefully, at least one or two of you guys missed me, too. Anyway, as usual, we have hit the ground running....literally, since I have not been able to do my practice walking for waaaay too long. This Breast Cancer Walk is gonna kill me if I do not take serious advantage of the next few weeks. Gulp.

While we were away we were able to pick up the manuscript from the publisher. We now have a few days to read and revise before sending it back. This has been the most interesting, and so far, positive experience. The best part? Meeting everyone along the way, especially Andi and Caryl. If you guys do nothing else with quilting, you must go see Caryl Bryer Fallert's studio/store/home in Paducah. Her quilts were selected as part of the 100 most significant quilts of the century and in my mind, there is no doubt why. FABULOUS. She, herself, is a doll.

Excuse me while I hit the streets. Pictures soon of what I have been working on. Your guess if they mean I can cross anything off the "L," heh heh.

Lusting Quilter

2011-08-31T23:25:00.003-05:00

Whoa. Today, my lusting has nothing to do with fabric, sewing, or quilting---I saw the most incredibly beautiful purse today while I was running errands. I told the salesperson that, like a dog, I was going to "mark my territory." Dogs pee on their surroundings to lay claim to that area. Consider the purse "pee-d on....it is now, MINE. To everyone else, that purse is nasty. All my husband has to do is go pay for the purse and then wrap it up for my birthday, heh heh.

Quilter's Newest Project

2011-08-31T10:53:00.007-05:00

Hmmm. Newest project? As I wrote that heading, I was thinking "quilting." Then, I realized that my true "latest project" is moving, literally, EVERYTHING in my house so the water damaged parts can be worked on. Brandy and I lost even our path to all the beds and bathrooms except for the one in the master bedroom area and that is definitely on the Endangered List. When Tom comes home this weekend, a hotel room is looking more and more likely.

So. Let's talk quilting, instead. Waaay funner. How about these images. Anyone wanna guess what I am up to?

Quilted Rug

2011-08-29T09:16:00.002-05:00

Whew. I was up until 2 a.m. working on a new project. I have two clocks in the studio and both need batteries. So, what I do is simply imagine what time it is. Works for me....

Quiltir's Weekend

2011-08-27T09:48:00.004-05:00

Ooooo, I love it. The weikend is here, hubby is here--busy with six and siwing. Oops, did I say that? Bitter stop because I don't think I can do either of those while in jail, gulp. I mean, they arrest folks for having this much fun, don't thiy? (sometimes I have trouble with my "i's" and my "e's" so please forgeve me, heh heh)

Busy Busy Quilter

2011-08-25T15:01:00.005-05:00

I was just thinking, doesn't the very word "Quilter" imply busy?? I mean, saying "busy quilter" seems redundant. Oh well, just a thought.

The gold chair, done. And, yes, Gale, I was a good girl and sanded all the other paint before repainting. She is sooo observant to have been able to detect that. Truthfully, she just knows me too well. Knows that I just might skip a step or two to see what the project is going to look like. Then, I tend to be "done" and move on to the next idea never to return and reallllly finish it, gulp. TMI, heh heh. In between, I squeezed in this director's chair seat for my cousin, Chris. I just loved the stripes. Avoiding the "L" word.....

These chairs are just a little sneak preview into the upcoming book. I might just mention that book one or two zillion more times. You've been warned.

Quilter's Work in Progress

2011-08-24T08:56:00.005-05:00

Apparently I am making some progress with things on " The List." This is a picture to prove it. Truth is, I am the one who needs the proof, sigh. Of course, none of these babies is finished. The receiver of the silk quilt on the bottom of the projects is getting married in the next few weeks. Anyone placing bets on when I will get it done?

In the meantime, I got an idea........
How about a peek at the latest work in progress, this chair. You guessed it--not on the list. Who cares? I think it is the prettiest, most sophisticated one yet. I might have even completed it but I ran out of gold paint. Just the facts, folks, just the facts.

Sleepy Quilter

2011-08-23T23:29:00.002-05:00

I am running out of toothpicks. My eyelids keep dropping to my chin. I am in such a procrastination mode that breathing would be on my "To Do" list if I could figure out how. Just not enough time to get everything done. I read part of an article that said trying to do two things at once is not a good idea because no one can do justice to either that way. HA. I consider it one of my goals in life to prove the writer of that article Wrong!!

Heck, I have been practicing the "do everything at once" theory for most of my life.....you be the judge. Be kind........

Quilted Chair

2011-08-22T11:54:00.004-05:00

I wanted to see what a chair without the padded backing would look like. I decided to do a "Sampler" of stitches on silk fabrics. Then, I went crazy with the big green and purple hanging thingies. Waaaay funner than dealing with the issues at hand. Did I mention that all the toilets and tubs in the house overflowed last night????? Yeah, like I did not have enough water in all the wrong places. Where is the water OUTSIDE?

Well, the last sale went so well, we have decided to offer another. How about half off of your choice of a quilt pattern or applique?

Patterns: "I Sea Stars", "Sunny Daze", "Quilt on a Chair", "Quilt on a Rug" (Originally $10.00/$8.00, now $5.00/4.00)

Appliques: "Hearts", "Gecko", "Daisy", "Giggle Fish" (Originally, $8.00, now, $4.00) plus shipping (318 247-9725)

Look, Look, "The" new Quilt Book

2011-08-19T20:09:00.002-05:00

How Totally Fun---Things are movin' and grovin' in the new book department. At least that is what it feels like in my world. I just received the cover images for my first book on Quilting, "Scrap-O-Lator Quilts and More." It is due out February, 2012. Let's spread the word!!!!

Quilter's Special "Thanks To You" Sale

2011-08-18T20:28:00.007-05:00

How about a treat for my great readers out there in the computer/sewing/quilting world? We are going to be offering some specials on some of our products over the next several days. First, we have a "Rock 'n' Roll." This is one quarter yard of each of the 14 fabrics from my first line, "I Dream in Color." That is a total of 3 1/2 yards of fabric ($35.00 value). We are also including our newest pattern, "I Sea Stars." ( $10 value). For a limited time this group will be $30.00 plus shipping. Do the math, that is a $15.00 savings. If you find you just gotta have it, simply call us (318 247-9725) so we can get your package in the mail to you. Thanks for being my faithful readers.

Quilter Needs RAIN

2011-08-18T11:34:00.003-05:00

Don't most of us need some kind of moisture these days? Wow, I cannot even remember the last time it rained. Scares the bejeezus out of me.

How about a distraction? Sooooo not on "The List," but, who cares? Let me know whatcha think. This new group is called "Cave Ities" of course, so far this "group" is a group of one since I just started it this week. Really glad to be having some time for this---yeah, right.

Quilters Know How to Pack

2011-08-17T17:32:00.002-05:00

I almost forgot to include this image of our car as we drove away from our darling daughter's home for the last time. This is called Sheer Determination, boys and girls.

Back to Quilting

2011-08-17T09:50:00.005-05:00

Back to quilting? I might be putting myself out on a needle here, w/o a thread of reality, but, I am at least sitting down and looking at my list of Quilt-related-To Do's.

Brandy and I finally moved everything out of what was formerly known as, "Brandy's House." We got home around 1:30 this morning. Luckily, I was able to catch a few ZZZZZ's even while driving the 70 mile return trip. Those pesky ridges and bumps on the Interstate kept on interrupting my naps, but, finally, home and in my bed.

Now, we are up, the bed is made, and, as for quilting, AQS asked if I could add one more set of directions to my manuscript/book so, quilt related stuff, here I come.......

Nothing to do with Quilting

2011-08-14T10:21:00.004-05:00

Let's be more accurate. What I am doing these days has almost nothing to do with quilting. I have been known to sneak in a visit to a fabric shop now and then. And, getting samples of fabrics for future quilts--does that count? and what about Thinking? I am almost always thinking and planning for the next quilt-related ideas, hmmmmm. O.K., O.K., so just about everything I do has something to do with quilting/fabric/designs/kits. Does that make me a fibber? or just simply confused? Yeah, that's it, Confused. I have even been accused of being in a State of Confusion on several occasions. So let's go with that.....

How about a few more...well, you know....this series? "Pastel Posies"

Wishing I Were Quilting....

2011-08-13T08:51:00.002-05:00

You guessed it. I am not quilting. We are heading out to our daughter's place to get the last of the stuff out of the house. Of course, that means the heaviest, most cumbersome stuff. Groan. Hopefully, we will be so busy that we will not have time to cry. Oh well.

How about more images of "Unworthies?" More from the Carousel Party group that were not invited to the party.....

Quilter Packing it In

2011-08-11T22:38:00.002-05:00

Wow, we found out last night that we are supposed to be packed and moved from our place in Shreveport by this weekend. Ha. We thought we had until the end of the month to be out. Talk about a change of plans. Brandy and I spent until five in the morning packing and we are still not close to being boxed up. To make matters more complicated, everyone and their brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, uncles and cousins must be renting trucks this week. I can just see us now, walking down I-20 with a chest of drawers on our shoulders....perhaps we can garner some sympathy from a trucker????

Quilter Oversleeps

2011-08-08T10:30:00.005-05:00

Actually, I am not sure it is even possible for me to actually oversleep. I mean, I am so far behind on the recommended 8 hours/night sleep that I could probably sleep for the rest of my life and not catch up on all the hours sleep that I have lost. Oh well, I did hit the ground running.

First, there are all the gazillion phone messages...I will add those to my "To Do List," heh heh. There are packages to mail, that great contest on the Quilting Gallery to do my write up for, getting quotes for all the ruined stuff from the flood, washing clothes (definitely going on that "To Do List" yuck) etc etc etc. Hmmm. I think I need a manicure......

Wanna see a few more "Unworthies?" Might as well show them here since it is likely no one else is gonna see them....sniff sniff. These are part of the Carousel Party group.

Quilter Arrives Home

2011-08-06T06:23:00.004-05:00

Whoopeeee. Sleeping in one's own bed is one of the best things in life, especially if one's sweet spouse is laying next to you. Oh heavenly nights.

Actually, Tom and I had planned to spend at least one night in Shreveport at Brandy's house, but, of course, things did not go smoothly with that plan. We arrived to find that the air conditioner was not working. It was 100 degrees inside the house--actually cooler outside. I took my bath only to have my make-up drool off my face faster than I could fix it. So-o--o, plan B. Sleep in Ruston, but, first, we went out to eat. I decided to do something I rarely do, have a mixed drink. Now, I remember why I rarely do that. Tom was so patient. He convinced me that dancing on the table naked was probably best done at home to an audience of one. I listened to him--stranger things have happened..TMI????

How about something delightful? Check this out. I just love creative people and this gal is superb. Of course, it does not hurt that she included me in her designs, heh heh. I just might have to make one of these babies. Now, if I can just find the time.....

Quilter Gets a Good Night's Sleep

2011-08-03T11:15:00.002-05:00

Finally, we can rest. Thanks to all of you who have been checking in on me and not rewarded, or punished as the case may be, for your support. I have been beyond tired. As usual, the trip to California did not go without its "issues." At some point in west Texas, I decided it was not the best idea I had ever had to be driving while sleeping so I let Brandy drive. Before I closed my eyes I asked how we were on gas. No problemo, more than half full. The reality is that we only get 10 miles to the gallon while pulling a trailer so it is never truly a "no problemo" situation. If you have ever driven West Texas, you know that the gas stations are few and very far between. You get where I am going....my daughter loves to listen to books on tape. Well, that seems to have taken precedence over paying attention to the gas gauge. Sure enough, when I opened my eyes and looked that the gauge, "No Problemo" was not in my vocabulary!!! It was over 100 degrees, we had no water, and, more importantly, no gas. I called 911. This time I was not calling Tom. The amazing thing was the police actually came to our rescue. They were simply amazing and deserve a huge round of applause for their efforts on our behalf. We were on our way and basically filled up at each and every gas station for the rest of the trip.

Right now we are in Santa Fe, joining my brother for his birthday celebration. He is an amazing cook, as is my other brother, Robert. So, we are fat and happy, and, as I mentioned at the beginning, rested. The only thing missing is Tom.....

Quilt Fabric

2011-07-24T10:48:00.001-05:00

Oopsie. Almost forgot to add another reject. This goes with the Carousel group.

Quilters Head 2 California, I-20, I-10, L.A.

2011-07-24T10:36:00.003-05:00

HAHAHAHA, I had plans to leave by 5:30 this morning. It is now 10:30 and I am so far behind I don't know if I can catch me. This wreck of a house has taken its toll on my accomplishments, at least as far as quilting stuff is concerned. I spent five years looking for stuff for my home when we remodeled a few years ago and now I am supposed to pick paint, tile, flooring, wallpaper, carpet, rugs, etc in a matter of days. Now, how am I supposed to buy all the great "finds" and "surprises" in that time---the breath-taking-Oh-my-gosh-I-have-to-have-that-even-though-it-is-soooo-not-in-my-budget" thingies? I am gonna have to do some power shopping, that is for sure. Hey, I am going to California. That has got to be a great place for major goodies. Time is a-wastin'. They are buying my stuff!!!!

Frustrated Quilter Heads Out, Again

2011-07-22T19:22:00.003-05:00

O.k., here is yet another, "too similar" design. whatcha think?

My intentions are in the right place--I am planning to write on my blog while I am gone to the Long Beach show, but, we all know how that goes. So, do not give up on me....I will be back.

Rejected Quilter

2011-07-20T08:27:00.006-05:00

O.K., folks, here I go, again. I have had all of my new designs rejected to date. I am going to start posting some of them here. Please comment. Please be honest. Well, not to the point of keeping me in tears....gulp. Anyway, here we go.

This is part of a group called Loopy Lillies. I already posted a couple of the designs earlier but I am going to show the "main" design, again, so you can see where I am going with this. I was told that these were too similar to my earlier line.

Quilter Meets Susan Komen Goal

2011-07-19T08:13:00.002-05:00

YIPPPPEEEEE. Thanks to the generosity of folks like you, I have just met my $2,300 fund-raising goal. Thanks to you, I now have zero excuses for not walking. Yeah, thanks for that....my butt thanks you, too. Thanks for the new, slimmer, trimmer, healthier me, I hope, I hope, I hope (did I mention that I usually gain weight doing this gig?)

Seriously, thank you. All of the folks for whom we walk thank you.

Back to Quilting?

2011-07-17T21:48:00.004-05:00

Whew, it seems like I am doing everything but quilting these days. Supposedly, the last parts of "the" quilting book are ready to be sent to the publisher. We will see.... I am not good at keeping secrets, as I have mentioned once or twice before, so, do not be surprised if I sneak in a few images of things to come, heh heh. As a matter of fact, how about some fabric designs....

As for the house, I can see where this damage control from the water could lead to trouble, big time. I mean, newly painted walls need new curtains, don't they? And then I could see where the seat cushions would be much prettier if they matched the new curtains better....hmmmm. Was that a look of fear on my husband's face as he left ??? Nah. Me thinks it was a look of approval, heh heh.

Quilter Walks for Susan G Komen

2011-07-16T16:04:00.004-05:00

Just thought I would mention -- 10 miles today. My butt is screamin', "You Bit...h.. !!!, What drugs are you taking? What were you thinking???? "Thinking?" Oh, that....hey, if I were an advocate of thinking I most likely would not be signed up for this 60 Mile Walk in the first place, DUH.

I Shoud Have Been Quilting

2011-07-15T09:40:00.003-05:00

Breathe, breathe...breathe, Dianne. It has to be better than not breathing, right? I am referring to my actions these days, particularly with respect to the credit card issue. I now know that I had several options. However, I just panicked. Always a dumb idea. Even the great guy who is helping us repair the water damage asked why I did not call him. Like I even thought that would be an option? Anyway, hopefully, there will not be a next time, but, just in case, I am going to practice "not to panic!, not to panic, not to,um, wait, doesn't that mean I have to get in more panic situations to see if it is working? I do not like this plan at all.

Breathe...take a very deep breathe. Then think. That is my new plan....thinking. Novel idea.

Pooped Quilter

2011-07-13T10:04:00.004-05:00

Whew. It takes a lot out of me to walk in this heat. I did nine miles today and stupidly got started later than I like. Wanna take a snooze? Read on. Things are pretty much same ol', same ol' these days. House is in shambles, book is progressing, and I am getting ready for the next show, in Long Beach.

I will tell you a little story. I believe I mentioned that I drove up to Paducah last week and about the fiasco with the photographer scheduling. By the way, it turned out he was really nice. Anyway, my daughter and I decided to take a day and piddle around town, have a nice lunch, shop, go to the museum, etc. An actual day of relaxation. I looked that word up in the dictionary because I had forgotten what it meant...anyway, the town is lovely. Wonderful shops are everywhere, tempting even the most prudent shoppers. I, of course, do not fall into that category so it was Temptation City for me. We found the most delightful dress shop right off the bat. We tried on tons of clothes and I found one terrific shirt--had to have it. Well, when I went to purchase the item, my credit card was rejected. I only use one credit card. My head was spinning. I decided, go eat some lunch and call 911 (HUSBAND). He was in meetings all day and not able to answer his cell. Panicky, I decided I would check out of our hotel and go home, immediately. I mean, I only had about $200 bucks in cash on me. I paid $80 of that for the room. It was now around 5 pm and we had about 12 hours of driving in front of us. Remember, we were pulling a trailer that, full, meant we got about 10 miles to the gallon. Do the math, I now had about $120 bucks. That purchases about 40 gallons of gas. That gets us about 400 miles.....we had nearly 700 to go...... As we are driving, our conversation went like, "O.k, check all over my purse for any more money."... "call your Dad."..."count the change"...."look in the glove box"".."call your Dad."...".think we will be arrested as vagrants if we sleep in a Wal-Mart parking lot like the 18 wheeler guys?"..."should we eat anything and use up gas money?" "call your Dad"........

Finally, we got in touch with Tom. He pleaded with us to stop at a hotel and he would call in his credit card number. Of course, I did not listen. I rarely listen. Why start now???? I just did not think I could sleep under the circumstances, anyway. We arrived home around five in the morning with less than $10 in our pockets, exhausted, and teary eyed. The next day I called the bank. They had no idea why the card was rejected. NO answers at all. What was that word??? Relaxation? Serves me right. Any word I have to research, I probably should not incorporate into my life...bad karma,very bad karma.

Red-faced Quilter

2011-07-11T19:22:00.002-05:00

Well, I just found out why my workers did not show up. The head man's wife died over the weekend. I feel like such a jerk for even thinking bad thoughts. Please bear with me.......

Exhausted, Frustrated Quilter

2011-07-11T11:17:00.002-05:00

Wow, it has been a week of an exploded house. Now, we are waiting for more of the "de-contructing" process. Where are they? Why-o-why do these worker guys not show up when they say they will? Now I am starting to remember one of the big reasons that Tom and I did all of the remodeling ourselves -- we did not have to depend on anyone else's schedule.

As for the book, I have only one more set of directions to write and I will be as done as I know how to be at this point. YIIPPPPEEE. Start preparing the margarita, boys and girls. Almost time to do some celebratin'

Quilting Book in the Works

2011-07-08T20:31:00.002-05:00

O.k., I actually mentioned that I was in the process of writing a book earlier, not sure whether I was going to be a very bad girl by doing that. Well, I found out when we drove to Kentucky that I can announce it to the world. So, consider this my "world announcement." I am writing a book for American Quilter's Society (AQS) and the "expected" birthing date is March. The name of the book is, "The Scrap-O-Lator," and it will be all about quilts that use your scraps and stash. There is also a whole section on using your scraps in non-sewing projects. Now, the labor pains...just trying to get this baby done by August first is a major challenge. Tuesday morning Brandy and I drove to Paducah to take all of the projects to the photographer's. There was a mix-up, what's new?, and the photographer was not ready for us. So, we left everything in Kentucky and we will have to drive back in a few weeks. Such is life. I hope to show an image of the cover of the book in the next few weeks. Pardon me if I squeal and jump up and down and mention the book one or two --- MILION times!

Quilters Bogged Down

2011-07-03T12:49:00.003-05:00

Yep, not much has changed on the homefront except more of the same water issues. Now, the house is just more torn up...sheetrock cut from the walls, more fans, more floor gone, etc etc etc. Jeez, my head just cannot seem to get focused on this project stuff. I am soooo ADD. sooo easily distracted. Hopefully, things will calm down here soon. Yeah, right. Running away from home is sounding like a good suggestion. Ever read, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day?" It is such a cute "children's" book. I am unofficially changing the name to "Dianne and the Terrible, No Good......." That is my story and I am stickin' to it.

Quilters Re-decorate

2011-07-01T21:51:00.004-05:00

More decorator photo ops. Anyone need some flooring, cheap? Yours for the taking. Oh, and you are also welcome to the bags hanging from the fridge door, and the bedroom doors, and, wherever else we can find to dry them out. The third and fourth photos are more evidence of our new decorating techniques. Uh, wait. That last one is the front of our fridge. Nothing new about that. That is what it always looks like. Whatever... We are definitely for hire. Just call. We do not have a long waiting list....

Welcome Home Quilters!!!

2011-06-29T17:01:00.009-05:00

What a welcome we got on Monday. After being gone all week to Arlington, tired, but glad to be home, I innocently pushed the button to open the garage door. (By the way, Innocence was definitely not bliss...)....Water poured off the bottom of the garage door. I thought, "What is up with that?" DUH. Water was also streaming out of the bottom of the back door to the house. I screamed to my daughter to help and we ran into the house, which was also floating, and immediately realized that the powder room was the problem. First, we could not get the door to the bathroom open because it was swollen shut. After much pulling and struggling, the door opened, but, now, we could not turn off the valve. Water was streaming in our faces and the #$%$%^&^%##** valve would not budge. Finally, with the assistance of a hammer and a pair of pliers, success. OHMYGOD, we now went through the house to assess the situation. Water was in the living room, dining room, kitchen, bathrooms, hallway, and pouring through the walls to the patio and front porch. Not pretty. Definitely not pretty. So, we now have very noisy, very hot machines running 24 hours a day to extract gallons and gallons of water. I keep thinking, "Couldn't it at least have gone towards the grass????" What a waste.

Our house is now on Life Support...see the picture of the machines? The second photo is the new decor of our entry closet. Want to hire us as your new decorators?

Quilters Head to the Martha Pullen Show

2011-06-21T14:51:00.002-05:00

Here we go. Just as I thought I had everything in order to make this a hassle free trip to Arlington, TX, the shipping company emailed me to say that my next load of cups has arrived in Dallas and will incur storage charges if we do not pick up the shipment by tomorrow. Yikes. Regroup. Stop everything. Call 911 (a.k.a., husband). He arranged for us to use a friend's truck. The problem is, the truck has a leak in the AC and needs freon. So, we drove into town, got the truck and took it to the repair shop. Now, back home to pack the car, then we will head back to the repair shop to get the truck and off to Arlington, and Dallas. We had planned to leave early to make it a relaxing drive.......it is now 3 in the afternoon.....best laid plans. If I do not have time to add to my Threads, well, you know. By the way, it has not rained in, like, forever, and it is raining now--as we go to pick up cardboard boxes full of stuff in an open truck? The fun never ends. If you are in the Dallas/Arlington/Fort Worth area, come see us at the Martha Pullen Show.

Quilter "Giving" Things Away

2011-06-20T09:13:00.006-05:00

O.K., folks, I am going to do something I have never done before on this Thread. I am going to do some blatant advertising. If you go visit my fabrics on the Timeless Treasures
website, look at the fabrics I have to offer, choose at least three yards, total, of any of these designs, email me with your choices, and either make a Paypal payment or call (318 243-2983) or, send a phone number so I can get cc info, I will send you a free pattern ($10 value). Oh, did I mention I am also taking off 50 cents a yard making the fabric cost $9.00 /yard? This offer is good until Wednesday, June 22, 2011. Have FUN.

Sneaky Quilter

2011-06-18T18:39:00.002-05:00

Just thought I would be sneaky and post a little preview of a quilt that I have been making. I am a tease.....

New Quilt, Finally

2011-06-16T07:40:00.001-05:00

Finally, I am posting a new quilt. Of course, I have not actually quilted it, yet. Guess whose fabric line this is, heh heh. Whatchathink? Again, raise of hands for those who think this was on my "To Do List." Yeah, right.

News Flash, Quilter Breaks Toe

2011-06-14T07:09:00.004-05:00

Ouch! So much for my practice walking for the next several days. I think I broke my toe while watering the flowers outside. Heck, even if it is not broken, it feels like it. The picture does not capture the real beauty of the color but it does record that the hit to my toe even knocked off my pretty nail polish. Sniffle, sniffle--that is the worst part. No vanity here....

Just for putting up with the picture of my yicky toe, I thought I would throw in a picture of the five foot window I sandblasted for my daughter's house. I am pretty sure I already showed some images of this baby, but, we are selling the house and it will be "Good bye window." Our hearts are more broken than my toe. Think I'll go quilt......

Quiter's Butt

2011-06-13T07:13:00.005-05:00

Woopee for all of us. Not too many more opportunities to bug you, at least for this cause. Only $310 more to go for my required fund-raising amount for the Susan G Komen 60 Mile Walk for the Cure. Thank you guys for any and all of your support, now, and in the future. As I mentioned earlier,it saddens me to think that this will probably be my last time to walk in this event. Selfishly, I benefited from this walk. First and foremost, it made me get off my quilting butt and recirculate the blood to other parts of my body. Hello FEET. In the process of practicing for this, one has to walk a total of nearly 60o miles over the months period prior to the walk. In fact, I am heading out for a 4 miler today as soon as I finish this Thread.

Secondly, I have learned that kleenex is even more important than a water bottle. It seems walking is a laxative--all natural, that is for sure. I get dressed, drink water, go pee, etc, all in preparation for a walk. Thinking all the important stuff is taken care of, I head out. Invariably, within 15 minutes, uh oh.....luckily there are several "natural" potty spots along the way. So this is my tip for the day--when you cannot "Go," go for a walk without kleenex....works every time.

So, just in case you would like to assist me in my goal, or know anyone else who would be willing, here is here is the link:

http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Events/General?fr_id=1430&pg=pfind

Smiling Quilter

2011-06-10T21:09:00.002-05:00

Wow, for the summer my husband will get off work every other Friday. So, he came home last night. Not only am I a happy camper, I will be smiling a lot more these days. I think I will go make him smile, too......later guys. ;-)

I will sneak in a little Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk hint. I have $355 more to go. If you cannot donate, perhaps you know someone who can.

Restless Quilter

2011-06-09T05:27:00.004-05:00

O.K., here I am up at 4:30 in the A.M....might as well add a tiny bit to my Thread as I weave in and out of sanity and sleep. Hmmmm. How about an image of something I have been working on when I should be doing other things, like writing directions!!!? This is waaay funner.

Worried Quilter

2011-06-08T07:13:00.006-05:00

Yikes. Usually I get at least one comment every day from someone out there in the virtual world. Where are you guys? Do you actually have anything better to do than read this blog and write a little something? Where-o-where are my BFF's?

Nobody loves me, everybody hates me,
I'm gonna go eat worms.
Big ones, little ones, Fat ones, skinny ones,
Oh how they do squirm.
First one icky, second one sticky,
Third one stuck in my throat.

Dumb Quilter

2011-06-07T08:50:00.003-05:00

How can one be so dumb? I just stayed up all night. I was working on a project and next thing I knew, daylight. The light was definitely not on in my head. Too late to go to bed, or is it too early? I wonder how many IQ points one loses along with the loss of a night's sleep? I do not have any spare ones to give away so I could be in bi-i-i-i-ig trouble. My tests: (1) Go for a walk and se if I can fnd my way hme, (2) write drections for a qult patrn, (3) cari on a busns confrence cal, (4) Go fr a wlk and see if I cn find my way hme, (5) wrte drections. Wel, so far, so gud.