forever friday

A Baby Quilt

2011-09-24T16:28:00.004+10:00

I know, long time no see. Now let's see if I can remember how to do this........

Tah Dah! This quilt was made for our new Great Niece from a quilt kit purchased from
"The Quilt Shoppe" in USA.

UFO Thursday

2011-01-13T09:55:00.003+10:00

This is my first dabble at UFO Thursday, and I'm dabbling in a small way. My last paper pieced Santa was abducted by DD when she ran out of time with her decision to make these Santas as part of her gift to some of her teachers on finishing senior this year. I started this fellow, to replace mine, and he sat on the ironing board requiring facial features and finishing for approximately a month. I decided to finish him last week, so now he will be ready for next year.

Now, what to choose next. Although it is hard to focus on anything with all the devastation we are witnessing on the television.

Stay safe, however you may be effected. The prayers of the world are with you all.

Merry Christmas......

2010-12-24T20:44:00.005+10:00

It's one month exactly since I posted, hasn't time flown. Hope everyone is not feeling too damp to enjoy Christmas, and has someone special to share the day with. I know we may not all get to where we want to go, maybe not even me, but the main thing is to keep safe and make the most of however we spend the day.

Here's a photo of the table runner I made for my Mum for Christmas. Finished late last night. I know, I should have been better organised, but I couldn't make up my mind what I was giving her. It is made using the x-block ruler. It is easy to use and I really liked how it turned out.

.....and here's a photo of the water rushing down the creek in our back paddock. Bit of a change from last year I think.

Merry Christmas to all, and best wishes for the new year.

Butterflies....

2010-11-24T08:41:00.006+10:00

The last two Brutus stitcheries are complete. I have even stitched another since. However, the camera is off on a trip with DD who is enjoying some time out with friends celebrating schoolies week. Not amongst all the troublesome teenagers we see on tv, thankfully!

Yes, DD has finished year 12 which means next year will see me being the mother of two university students. Ho hum! A sure sign of age creeping up on me, and possibly a bit of loneliness too. Will just have to do some more sewing, won't I.

So, I did some digging to find a photo of something I haven't shown, just so that I could do a post before another month flew by.

Below is the entry I made for this years Blankets of Love competition in the Down Under Quilts Magazine. The blue/green was the given fat quarter which I chose to cut up into a kaleidoscope mini and worked from there to get the required size. The orange is a butterfly and the row of yellow are snails. My crew didn't quite get the snails bit, but I told them I had an artistic licence to call them what I wanted! I must have missed the edition of the mag with the winners in ?? Has anyone seen it ?

You can see the butterfly better now.......

.......and talking about butterflies. I think it is terribly unjust that these pretties can flutter about looking so lovely, right in front of your nose; land on your plants for a bit, and next thing you know, your plant is being eaten alive by a big fat grub.

Done and Dusted.....

2010-10-31T19:34:00.004+10:00

Gee.....just in the knick of time, before the start of a new month.....

Book work done........check
Washing done.......check
Ironing done.......check

Time for a visit to the sewing machine with a quick project that I found while prowling round blogland.

Here's Santa......
If you would like to make one of your own, here's where you will find him...... Pinwheel Ponders.

Best of luck with the Melbourne Cup!!

Brutus and the birds....

2010-10-04T17:25:00.002+10:00

Here I am again with another Red Brolly stitchery. Ain't it just so darn cute. I'm looking forward to putting them all together. I've got one more ready to go and then it's see what else Bronwyn has for us on the 6th. In the mean time, I have some bookwork to catch up on, so might be a bit longer with the next one.

More Brutus.....

2010-09-26T17:06:00.006+10:00

Here's my next Red Brolly stitchery.....

........and in between taking the first photo and putting it on the blog, I stitched another one. Two more to go and I'm up to date. One more design to come, I believe.

Here's a photo of a bag that I made a while back. Don't think I have shown it on here.

Annual Art Show.....

2010-09-11T19:17:00.002+10:00

"Reach for the Stars" was my entry in the local Art Exhibition with the theme this year of "Aim High". I'm thrilled to be able to report that I achieved a Highly Commended for my efforts. This quilt was fun to do.

Here's Brutus

2010-09-08T17:56:00.002+10:00

I know........... it has been ages. I just spotted the computer chair empty and dashed in, in the middle of getting tea ready and all. This is my fourth catalicious stitchery. Number 8 is in today! That's not too bad going. Delivered my quilt for the local art exhibition this afternoon too, so shouldn't be too far away with a picture of that. Just to prove that I'm not totally unproductive.

Best get back to the kitchen, and out of the way of homework too.

Catchulater!!

More of Brutus...

2010-06-25T09:38:00.007+10:00

Time just seems to be getting away quicker than I can blink an eye. Just popping in to show that despite having not blogged or read blogs for ages, I have still been stitching a bit. Here's pics of two more of Red Brolly's catalicious designs. I chose to do the colours because I liked everyone's but decided to go that way, but I can see the advantages to one colour stitching too. It sure would make it easier. But, nuff said, these have turned out lovely. Now to trace another or two. Can't wait to see the end result.

.........and this little bundle of seven is just another reason for time getting away. At four weeks old they need to be run around and fed just as much as the people version do at the moment.

With the school holidays upon us, I'm not sure when I'll be back. I need to wipe the camera and recharge ready for some holiday snaps. I'm off to visit my sister, so that should prove to be fun. Happy holidays to those who are having them!

In the mail...

2010-05-10T11:02:00.004+10:00

Look at what the mailman delivered to me. I recently won a giveaway from Lyn of Bluebird Quilts. The above is a photo of the trouble Lyn went to with the packaging. These delightful little parcels are what I pulled out of the mail bag......and below, a picture of what was inside the little parcels. Lyn's new pattern, some lovely fat quarters, and more little dolls everywhere. Aren't they just so cute! Thanks Lyn, for sending me such a lovely gift.
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Mother's Day. I was spoilt with a beautiful card from DS no.1. Breakfast was cooked by DH and DD. We then went out for lunch with both our own mother's as well. That was great. A nice meal, no washing up, champagne for the Mothers! Below is a pic of the gifts I made which was one of the patterns from Among the Gum Trees, special for Mother's Day. The embroidery was done through the week, but I had to sneak around to get the hangers done with Mother in-law in the house! Tea that night was a simple affair, whatever anyone felt like after the lunchtime meal, and then I was treated to a footspa, massage and pedicure while stitching in front of a favourite on tv. Isn't it lovely when the kids are of an age to spoil me so!!

Here's Brutus.....

2010-05-03T10:36:00.002+10:00

Here's my first block of Red Brolly's catalicious BOM.
Sorry, I decided to leave the washing and ironing until they were all done. Have traced the next two and looking forward to seeing no. 4, but have sidetracked over to Among the Gum Trees to get a couple of their projects done for Mother's Day. So much inspiration, just need to leave the computer alone long enough to achieve!

Another month done....

2010-04-27T08:34:00.006+10:00

Almost another month gone by, but I do have something to show. We had our local show on the 17th and I got busy and finished this stitchery pattern by Lynette Anderson. I'm pleased with how it looks, and was even lucky enough to find a frame the right size and shape.

This one was done by Rachel. She needed a birthday gift for her best friend's birthday and with the holidays coming up, I convinced her she had time to make her a gift. We chose this pattern from Wildcraft Farm, being especially appropriate for that driver's licence age.

What's more, we were both lucky enough to score first prize places with our works of art!

Easter Treats.....

2010-04-01T14:41:00.003+10:00

The Easter Bunny has come early and look what I got. A lovely mat complete with pockets filled with goodies! Our annual Christmas swap got delayed by life itself, but what a bargain, we scored Easter as well! My Mat was made by BF Narelle, and below is Bitsy Bunny which I made for Narelle. I was clever enough to come up with a name for the said bunny when Helen from Hugs'n Kisses, designed the pattern and was looking for a name. So that meant there was a bunny pattern in the mail for me! Ain't she just so darn cute! I think so; and I also think I will need to make another so that there is one for me too.

Last day of school for the kids today. That means a break from school lunches, early mornings and rushing for the bus. Hooray! It also means that I might not be back in blogland for a bit as there tends to be someone else on the computer during these times. The oldest son also comes home from uni for a few days, tomorrow. Though I think he will be exhausted from his studies and assignments, is celebrating his birthday with friends tonight before coming home, and still has to study while he is home for an upcoming exam, first day back. It will be lovely to have him home for his actual birthday. How nice it is to have Easter fall early this year! Last year he had exams on his birthday and wasn't home. That's life I guess.

Anyways, Happy Easter to all, and I'll be sure to be visiting when I get the chance.

A Team Effort.....

2010-03-04T14:49:00.002+10:00

We visited again with my stitching Aunt on the weekend so I took my camera to photograph a quilt we worked on together on a visit over the Christmas holidays. It was a team effort which also had Rachel (DD) helping too. When I left last time, all the short trams were done and the top was in three large pieces. This is progress to date, with only one more border left to go. And no, we weren't there for even a week when we did this. It was a marathon effort over three days, with trips to town for supplies thrown in too! Both fun and satisfying!

Another catch-up.....

2010-02-21T16:20:00.005+10:00

Here's a photo of the Christmas Tree Angel I made from "Creating Country Threads", a couple of editions before Christmas. That means though, that I think I have showed all there is to show and I had better get busy and get to some more sewing. I think this year should be named the year of the ufo cause there are too many unfinished things hoarded away. But there are too many other lovelies that I want to play with too !!!

Something I thought I would share from a magazine I read recently. They advised that if you went over your receipts with a highlighter pen, it would save them from fading...............I thought it was interesting anyways. ~ :-)

Catching up.....

2010-01-30T11:23:00.002+10:00

Like everyone, I have not been sewing for awhile and been an inefficient blogger too. Here's a photo of "My Bleeding Heart" which was my entry in our local art show October last year. We had to use a certain amount of red, and the theme was Our Passion. But the theme of the art exhibition was the year of the blood donor. Hence.....My Bleeding Heart. I thought it was a good idea anyway. And here's a photo of a new addition born on the 30th of December. Ain't she cute, on those long wobbly legs!

Will try not to be missing so long next time. Kids back to school now, life returns to normal.

In the mail....

2009-12-04T09:00:00.003+10:00

Here's the lovely hand made card and Christmas ornament received from Deb @ The Angel and the Pukeko . Chooky's wisdom has been witnessed here. She instructed us not to show our pressies in case, and Deb's blog is one which I already visit. And heres the ornament I sent to Caryn. And here also is a blog I already visited and have previously received a gift from Caryn from the bag swap last year, so she may also visit. Depspite the vastness of blogland, it really can be quite small sometimes. A wise woman Chooky! Thanks for a fun swap. Of course we are still waiting patiently to open our Christmas presents.......best things come to those who wait. Thanks Deb!

Relief....

2009-11-24T07:34:00.006+10:00

It was a relief to awaken to rain on the roof this morning. Of course we need heaps more to do any real good, but it sure did sound nice, and will hopefully make for a more pleasant day today. A relief from the scorching heat we have been enduring.

SSCS09 projects completed and on their way. Enjoy the surprise partner!

Here's those girls again, a bit bigger now.

Like Pretty Maids all in a Row.....

2009-11-13T09:46:00.004+10:00

Two weeks have passed since we had our weekend of fun, friends and fabric. Photographed above is the lovely hand dyed fabrics after washing, and after ironing. We were all tremendously thrilled by the beautiful colours and patterns we arrived at. We also worked on "Strips and Curves", but more on that another day. Haven't gotten back to it since then, as I have been busy with finishing my SSCS, and just life in general......But we did have a wonderful weekend, completed with a glass of wine.

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Oh, and my stitchers angel gift arrived, but I have forgotten to photograph it too.

Sugar Glider....

2009-10-25T18:26:00.003+10:00

I can't believe that so much time has gone by since last post. I have been busy, busy with book work and some sewing too. Am almost ready to send off my Stitcher's Angel gifts, and then it will be on to finishing the SSCS2 ones too.

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I have been doing some fabric shopping too. Do you know Jane?? She is a fellow blogger in America who's blog I follow. And when Jane advertised a sale, I just had to go for a look. I had a wonderful time choosing fabrics, and Jane was so helpful in making sure I could make the most of my posting dollar. I thoroughly recommend you go for a look. I will show off my lovelies when they arrive.

This wee fellow is a sugar glider. He is a tiny member of the possum family. DH came across him while fencing on our property.

Signs of Spring....

2009-09-20T22:34:00.005+10:00

The signs of spring are springing up all over..... .......the flowers

.......the baby willy wag tails hatched just outside our door

.......the calves

......and here's those girls again!

Send in the clowns......

2009-09-18T17:17:00.003+10:00

Here's a photo of my younger two all dressed up for the school social last night. The theme was clowns. They had a fun time, and Rachel even won a choccy for one of the two best dressed!

CRAFT BOOKS....

2009-09-13T20:44:00.003+10:00

Ebay is somewhere that most of us visit on occassion, sniffing out that bargain or two. I have just finished listing 21 books for my Mum which she no longer has room for in her life or cupboard. She was an avid card maker until my Dad passed away and no longer has the desire to partake this crafting hobby that they shared.

These are just two of the 21. Click on the link and pop on by for a look. There might just be something there you have been looking for.

Angel Project no. 1.....

2009-09-06T11:02:00.007+10:00

Angel project number 1 is complete, now for number 2. I have used Tozz's angel on my heart for the pocket design on this one, I thought it so appropriate. I doubt my angel partner will even be visiting, given the number of angels around the world, so I thought it safe showing it off. I have been visiting my partner's blog, and sending her sneaky emails too. Also preparations on the go for the sscs09. Busy, busy.....

........and another puppy photo too.

New Additions......

2009-08-30T09:00:00.004+10:00

Here's the cute little additions to our family. Meet Speck (short for Speckles) on the left and Sam, on the right looking down. They are now 7 weeks old and have successfully added some fun and excitement to our lives. What a shame they have to grow up though!

On the stitching front. First angel project is complete........we are being spoilt with beautiful projects to choose from. Have also received my SSCS09 partner and was surprised to be designated someone with whom I have had previous contact. Doesn't often happen in this big wide world of bloggers. I will enjoy being able to send off a gift to this particular blogger.

Till next time.....

Another Annie.....

2009-08-21T08:01:00.002+10:00

After the fun I had with making and receiving my annies, Rachel decided to make one for a friend's birthday. She was a little late with the gift, but as they say, good things come to those who wait.

So, here she is. And the only thing I really helped a little more with, was the hair. The rest, Rachel achieved by herself, following my instructions. Well done Rachel! School work permitting, I am sure there will be more escapades into Mum's scrap bag.

Another week, another finish.......

2009-08-16T08:49:00.002+10:00

Last Saturday night I traced the design onto fabric. Finished it yesterday and kept going, trying to save it from the fate of joining the other completed stitcheries in the pile to be made into something. Yay, I succeeded! I think I have an overproductive mind, the projects can only get so far before the mind demands I start something new. "Stitchin Angel" projects start tomorrow night, can't wait to see what Helen has in store for us.

A Quick Project....

2009-08-09T22:56:00.001+10:00

Just so it isn't too long between posts, here's a quick little project that I did this past week. It is also a little photo as it was taken on my phone as my camera was off with DH. Just proves I haven't been entirely inactive though.....

and it's a finish!.....

2009-08-03T09:34:00.003+10:00

.....and it's in the mail on it's way to hopefully make a special little girl happy for her birthday. A little late but.........

Welcome to the new month....

2009-08-01T11:58:00.003+10:00

I must say that I am pleased to farewell July. Despite the fact that it is the birthday month for both myself and DH, it also brought sadness. It started out well with a trip to Brisbane to collect DS from uni for the holidays. That included a few days away with some shopping fun and movies. Not patchwork shopping, more to suit the majority rather than just me. Anyways, we had fun doing it. Everyone was home for my birthday, we had dinner with a friend. All's well at this stage.

It was DH birthday on the 18th which also ended up being the day that my Grandma died. Three days later we attended her funeral. Mum was unwell during all of this trauma too, the stress of burying her mother didn't help. Grandma will be sadly missed, but always fondly remembered. We spent many happy hours together cooking or playing scrabble. She also taught me to crochet and to knit. We can be happy that she is with Grandad and is no longer feeling the pains of ill health. She was 92 years old.

So, as I said, farewell July and let's hope that August brings good health and happiness with it.

I'm busy stitching on some binding at present, so I'll be back soon with something to show.

snapshots of the prizes....

2009-06-24T09:35:00.003+10:00

The month has flown by, I can't believe that it has been so long since I last posted on here, but it has. I have finally heard that my parcels have arrived at there destinations, so heres a looksee at what I sent to the winners. This top collection of goodies went to Helen of Hugs from Helen fame. It was nice to send something to Helen after winning her new pattern from her blog release. And when she received it, she said that she didn't even relise she had entered, so how's that for a nice surprise in the mail. This next collection went to Ulla in Sweden. Ulla has also sent me a collection of lovely fabric pieces, and is also one of my pif pals, so we have had a giftee each in this one too, and of course Ulla will receive again when I get those pif done.

So that brings to a close my 50th post draw. Now on to the next 50. I have been a stitchin! I'm getting a collection of stitcheries and hexies.....all of which is creating a pile of ufo's. I'm enjoying stitching in front of the tele (under a quilt of course), on these chilly nights; except for one which was so cold I couldn't keep my hands out from under the quilt. But haven't put anything together with them yet. We have people who finish our quilts for us, maybe I need a finisher to finish other things too.

School holidays start again at the end of the week, so not sure how much time I will have at either stitching or blogging. But, as an added bonus, my eldest comes home for a month from university. It will be so nice to have him as part of the household again, even just for a while.

Till next time....x

Maureen....

2009-06-03T13:03:00.002+10:00

I've been fixing up Maureen's dress. It needed washing and new elastics etc. Now ain't she sweet. This lovely young lady is my Mum's doll which she has given to Rachel - her oldest grand daughter. She was given to Mum in 1955. 1955 was the year that Maureen Kistle was named Miss Australia in the Miss Australia Pageant, hence her doll being named Maureen.

And the WINNER is........

2009-05-31T22:58:00.004+10:00

Here it is at last! The big "50" !! And without further ado, it is time to announce the winner(s). I decided to do two drawers so there will be one winner from Australia and one from amongst our International friends. Like I said, the prizes will be revealed after being received.

*****

Thanks to everyone who entered, it was great to have so many entries.

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The Australian winner, whom I can surprise with a parcel if she doesn't read this post, is "Helen Stubbings" from Hugs from Helen. I already have Helen's postal address as I won a pattern from her blog draw only a couple of weeks ago.

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The International prize goes to "Ulla" from Ulla's Fiber Blog. Ulla is from Sweden and is also one of my PIF pals, so she will receive 2 gifts from me when I get that one done too.

*****

So that's it for now. Will have to spend a bit less time on the computer and get some more stitching done so I have something more to show off.

Thanks again for all the comments and congratulations to the winners. I hope they enjoy their prizes. = )

Last Chance......

2009-05-28T09:36:00.002+10:00

I've been posting so much in the last fortnight, I can't seem to find anything crafty to show, so here's a photo of Rachel who wants to do the draw of the giveaway. This is a whacky photo from Christmas last year.

So this is it! Post number 49 !!! Last chance for comments to go in the draw! I will draw on Sunday and announce it if my computer allows me to turn it on, otherwise definately Monday on another computer. Seeing as I haven't finished getting the prize organised, I've decided to keep it to myself and not show it until after it has arrived at it's destination, that way it will be a surprise for the recipient. Thanks for all my comments so far!!

Back soon!

Happy Blogaversary To Me.......

2009-05-25T13:33:00.002+10:00

Lookee at the blogaversary present Narelle gave me. A new layout!! I wasn't quite game to attempt it alone, and have seen on other blogs how some had lost there sidebars etc., so I asked Narelle to give me a hand. This is post number 48 girls! I will follow this week with 49 and then it will be the draw. Thanks so much for everyone who has come by and left a comment. It's nice to hear from you all.

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Narelle and I also had a nice day out on Saturday. A nearby quilt group incorporated a show and tell with Australia's Biggest Morning Tea so that made for a nice day out, nice food and nice quilts while raising money for a good cause. Then we came back to my place for a bit of stitching. What bliss!

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OK, that's it for now, keep those comments comin in and I'll be back real soon!

More Dolls to Show......

2009-05-21T17:45:00.005+10:00

This country angel was made by my sister and was given to me for a prize for our girls night in last year. How lucky was I to be able to bring her home again. This young lady is "Sweet Sally". I made her for a Christmas gift from a Country Threads magazine. Her dress is made from fabric I purchased from my trip to Bali.

I'm very happy to be receiving some entries in my giveaway. Keep those comments coming, not time for the draw yet.

Something to show.......

2009-05-19T10:24:00.003+10:00

This was my entry in the blankets of love competition in "Down Under Quilts" in 2007. I was looking through the photo folders for something I haven't shown. Remember I'm sneaking up on the 50th post for my draw, so don't forget to comment! It mustn't be long till the magazine announces the competition for this year. I look forward to doing it again, I enjoy the challenge. The feature fabric for this one was the yellow. It was much easier to work with than last years.

Annie Louise.......

2009-05-17T14:17:00.004+10:00

This young lady is Annie Louise. She is the Annie doll that I made for Lindi at Quilty Threads. I also made the gingerbread man and hanging ornie too. Lindi said in her profile that she liked gingerbread but I couldn't find the real thing, so stitched one for her instead. I thoroughly enjoyed making this Annie for Lindi and was thrilled with the one she made for me too. These blog swaps are such fun! This little cupcake pincushion was another little something included in Lindi's parcel. It turned out so lovely! I made it from a pattern that I was lucky enough to win from a giveaway on Shelley's blog, Angels Come to Play. It was easy to make and is so cute, I plan to make some more real soon.

Now, talking about giveaways..... it just so happens that the 15th of May was the one year anniversary of my joining in in blogland. I will also be up to my 50th post very soon. So, with these things in mind, I figure it is my turn to give something back to blogland. From this post until my 49th I will count any comments in the draw. 13 is the highest number of comments I have received before, I would love to beat it and to get some idea of how many sneek a peek at my blog. I would also love the opportunity to give something back, perhaps, to someone that I have been lucky enough to win from, or have had the opportunity of meeting through the many swaps I have taken part in.

So, that's it. All you need to do is leave a comment from now until post 49. Oh, and if I seem to go missing again, don't despair, I am still having intermittment computer problems but will return, and will make the draw as promised. And the prize.....well that's not quite decided on yet, so it will be a surprise too!

Welcome Annie Sunshine.....

2009-05-05T17:02:00.007+10:00

I've been without my computer for three days, so after ringing the computer shop for some advice which provided a simple answer; here I am posting hurriedly before it decides it's not working again. We'll see.....

So without further ado; I'd like to introduce Annie Sunshine. This little Annie was made for me by Lindi of Quilty Threads. Aint she just so sweet!! She has brought with her her pal Marmalade and also some gifts too! Thank you so much Lindi! This has been such a fun swap thanks to Aunt Pitty Pat!

And if you happen to be passing by Lindi.....here's a sneaky peek of a little something which is heading your way as we speak...or type....and you'll just have to wait and see...

back soon......hopefully..

Catching Up.....

2009-04-20T22:06:00.005+10:00

Well here it is, almost a month since my last post...hope everyone has had a nice Easter break. The kids are back to school again tomorrow so I guess it's time to straighten the house a bit and get back to normal again. GST to finish before anymore mischief can start, but as you can see, I have been busy.....and without a computer for awhile too, so that didn't help.

This cushion was the gift I made for my partner in the Easter swap. It arrived safely into the hands of Helena who seems happy with it, although I was concerned about making something for a published pattern designer though. Waiting for it to arrive is always a worry too!

My monochromatic quilt arrived at last! It was down to the last three to be posted and I was wondering. It came to me all the way from......Narelle! Anyone who visits on occassion would know that Narelle is mentioned on a regular basis and is only about 50 minutes away. She must have nearly busted every time I discussed the swap with her! And what a coincidence to get me as a partner in such a wide swap draw anyway! So here it is! My monochromatic quilt in purple. Doesn't it look so nice upon my wall. Thank you so much sneaky friend!

Mind you, she was probably only getting back at me for doing the same for her with her birthday present. Below is the runner that was supposed to be for Christmas but was somewhat delayed! I had it all wrapped up with extras in time for her birthday, sent from afar it seemed!

Just as well I got it done before the monochromatic was due, or I might have gotten an IOU in the mail instead!!

Well, that's pretty much it for now. Hopefully it won't be so long till I'm back again. The computer is back, but they said they could find nothing wrong?? It has however misbehaved again since being home only a few days. It just turns off all of a sudden in the middle of whatever, and sometimes just won't come back on for a day even?? Computers?? A mystery of the modern world. So, if possible.....be back soon.

Bon Voyage......

2009-03-30T12:24:00.004+10:00

My contribution to the 4SQS5 is on its way over the seas. I sure hope my partner likes it as much as I do. The funny part was that I put pink down as the colour that I didn't want used for my quilt; fate played it's hand and landed me with a pink quilt to make. Must have been teaching me a lesson. I worked with the pink and turned out this beauty which I am very happy with. Now I can sit back and await the arrival of my quilt, wonder who's sending to me?? Here's part of an email I received in my inbox today. Thought I would share. It made me smile; hope it makes you smile too.

In the Mail...

2009-03-28T17:16:00.002+10:00

Lookee what the mailman brought for me this week. My very own easter swap surprise all the way from Minnesota! What a thrill to share our craft all over the world! Vanessa from Crafty kids and Mama too went to the trouble of stitching this lovely easter wall hanging for me, and collecting these other goodies too. The choccies even made it to the photo shoot! Aren't I good.
And I just love the American Better Homes and Gardens magazine. Can you see the lovely chocolate cake in the bottom right hand corner? That's a pin cushion!! Looking forward to making one of those when I clear the decks a bit......Oh, and ??? your Easter swap surprise is on it's way. I sure hope you like it as much as I like mine. Also finished that afore mentioned belated christmas gift and just the binding left to go on the monochromatic quilt for that swap. Going well!!

Out for dinner....

2009-03-22T22:01:00.002+10:00

Here's my froggy pal again. This time I caught a shot of him out and about for a bite to eat. He's just so cute. Finished one of my swap projects today and am busy on another project that needs finishing too. Better get back to it!!

Blog update....aren't I good..

2009-03-21T12:24:00.005+10:00

I have been sewing but just because I'm not supposed to show too much as it's for swaps, here's a cute little speckled frog who's been watching me from under the roof on my verandah for you to look at instead. He looks like a happy fellow, and sat contentedly while I snapped away only a few inches from him. And here's another (new) photo of my orchids. I have shown them before, but look, they are still alive, and it's been nearly 3 years!

If you read Mel's blog, good, if you don't pop on over for a read. She's trying to spread the word on autism for autism day, but I'm not sure if I can add the button, so if not go to .......Mel's blog.

And I'm also making an Annie doll....go see.

What have I been up to....??

2009-03-12T18:45:00.005+10:00

Is it so long since I've posted?? Time just gets away so quickly. Since last post I have had a trip to Brisbane to get my oldest settled into uni. This was a very emotional trip which involved lots of retail therapy to help me through. We managed to find quite a few patchwork shops and quite a collection of things to buy to help keep my mind off the torment of leaving our son behind. However, after a week of fun and frivolity which they call "O" week, to help get everyone over their homesickness and get to know a few, he is now starting to settle into the business end of his next five years of life as a veterinary student. So far, he is keeping in regular contact, hasn't starved and is enjoying the food and life of boarding at college; and I've gotten used to cooking less, and one less to wash for etc. Haven't quite gotten past the "wondering what he's up to" though, but guess it all takes time.

So, what have I been up to since then. Well heres some more mug bags which I made. Getting quite the dab hand at whipping these things up!
Next is one of the hand stitching projects which I took to Brisbane with me to keep myself occupied when I wasn't shopping. It is one of Anni Downs's projects which was featured in a recent copy of Australian Country Threads. It was then stitched into a cushion cover after returning from Brisbane and has since been gifted for a friends birthday. A second project was also tackled in Brisbane but it is yet to be stitched up, and is for a secret swap; so no peeks just yet.

Next project in line is a sneak peek of my four seasons swap. Someone's?? favourite colour was pink. But you'll have to wait a little longer for more on that one.

Well, that's about it for this time. I will endeavour to not take so long to get back again. My bloglines were so congested when I got home, I had to wipe it clean, it was impossible to catch up again. Hope I didn't miss out on too much in blogland. All up to date again now! cu

In the nick of time....maybe

2009-01-31T18:31:00.002+10:00

Jo Jo over at Home Sweet Home is having a giveaway which I am sure you all know about. Because she was such a lovely lady and gave us all heaps of time to enter, I took heaps of time. I have just snuck a turn on the computer and found that she is closing and drawing tonight! It's now or never, let's hope I didn't miss the boat already. Happy Blogaversary Jo Jo; and here's three things I just can't do without!

Oh, and I have been sewing today, back soon with some pics.

Tea for Two.......

2009-01-19T22:22:00.005+10:00

A weekend away visiting my favourite Aunt, and look what we've been up to. These pincushions came from a book of Japanese fabric crafts and aint they sweet. We also enjoyed a visit to the cinema to see the movie "Australia" and weren't disappointed with that either. A great weekend had by all!

A Neglectful Friend.........

2009-01-15T18:45:00.002+10:00

Look what my best buddy made me for Christmas! And me? Well I've been very neglectful and haven't even shown it off to you all. Firstly I had to catch up with other things I needed to blog about; then recharge the camera, then find the camera cord.........and we won't even mention the fact that my gift hasn't been completed yet! But we did discuss this prior to Christmas and we were holding over if we didn't make the deadline - no pressure required. Narelle just surprised me, and did better than me and got hers done on time. I'll have to put in extra effort won't I??

Since last posting we have both enjoyed a wonderful shopping trip, made all the more fun because it was shared with four other wonderful friends and we just had a ball. I think Narelle tells how many shops we visited, every patchwork shop we could find plus many more, made all the more fun as it was sales galore!

If you've noticed the cute addition to my sidebar; I've joined in with the Secret Easter Swap, if my linking works, you might like to join in too.

There is also a great giveaway for some lovely fabrics at laniejane. Who doesn't need some new fabric, and they are georgeous!!

Another Finish........

2009-01-05T17:47:00.003+10:00

Here's the green minkee which was all finished and sent off to its destination in time for Christmas gift giving. This is the third one of these off the production line, this one however, having the striped fabric as the alternate blocks instead of a second applique block. The backing fabric was really pretty too (as you can see in the second photo below), and it was then used as the binding also.

I've caught up with my backlog of blog posts. There is plenty of blogging excitement with the Whirl Into Winter giveaways and New Year's resolutions.

Back Soon!!

And yet another win...

2009-01-04T16:35:00.003+10:00

It has been so long since I posted or visited in blogland. Bloglines says I have over 300 posts left to read! So I thought I'd pop on and wish everyone a happy new year. Firstly I have some lovely things to show. I won a giveaway on Paula's blog http://alattequilts.blogspot.com/ which included the georgeous snowman, scarf, fabric and choccies below and the lovely bears claw mini quilt a bit further below. We were both surprised at the speed at which it arrived and I was able to enjoy the choccies immediately and display the snowman for Christmas too. And then....

this lovely collection arrived from Busy Thimbles.

Let's hope my good fortune continues in 2009!

And then this came too! It's an award from Julie from I wonder what would happen if....
What a lovely surprise. Go see Julie's blog for some wonderful inspiration. I was lucky enough to have the magazine she herself was published in, so could check it out for myself.

It's my turn to pass on the award to 8 inspirational bloggers. When I have finished choosing; out of the so many wonderful blogs to choose from, I'll let you know. In the mean time here's some things about me you might (or might not) like to know about.

Here are the rules to play the game:
1. When you are tagged you are asked to list eight random facts about yourself and post them on your blog for visitors to enjoy.
2. Tag eight of your blogging friends and leave them a comment that they have been tagged and to join in the fun if they have the opportunity. (If not, that's okay. They can still enjoy the random facts everyone shares:) Be sure to list a link to your eight friends in your posting.

Eight facts about me...

1. I love chocolate.
2. I love shopping, especially quilt related with quilty friends.
3. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, especially quilty friends.
4. I enjoy quiet times sewing at home, or with our quilt group.
5. I have three children, the oldest off to uni this year, the youngest starting high school.
6. I love cats.
7. I thoroughly enjoy meeting new people in blogland, more so than reality as I'm too shy.
8. Did I mention that I loved chocolate? oh, and good coffee too.

There, that was a bit of fun. I'll be back to share the fun around a bit, real soon.
I'm looking forward to a bit of number 2, mid week, so that will give me some more fun to share.

A Winning Streak.....

2008-12-12T08:28:00.007+10:00

At last I can reveal something I learnt about months ago. My entry in the Down Under Quilts annual Bernina Blankets of Love Competition was selected as one of the four finalists. How exciting is that. Below is my entry and below that, the cover of the featuring magazine which includes photos of the four finalist quilts, plus the winner. I've been published!!

My prize included a 12 month subscription to the magazine as well as the Kaffe Fassett Fabrics and book pictured below.

To continue with this lucky streak, below is the lovely Anni Downs book "The World as it should be", which I won in a combined blog giveaway from Anni Downs of Hatched & Patched, and Carey from Blueberry Lane Designs. Thank you Anni for this wonderful book full of lovely patterns and to Carey for giving me the opportunity to win it on your blog.

I also have the pleasure of welcoming Jules from See Bull Sew as the third and final participant in my PIF. Jules is a newly wed in Canada, and new to blogland so pop on over and say hi. I'll have my gifts jetting off worldwide, how exciting is that, wish I could go see the sights too.

giveaways.....

2008-12-10T14:24:00.004+10:00

Well the green minkee is sandwiched and ready for some quilting. I'm hoping to get it done and in the mail Monday. Let's see?? In the meantime, I thought you might like to know about the couple of giveaways I've come across. There is one at Em's Scrapbag, for Em's 100th posting. The other one is at Daisy Quilts, for Robyn's one year anniversary.

Now; I've got the label there, if I've done it right you should be able to click on it and arrive safely at Daisy Quilts. If not it's linked to 'Daisy Quilts' above. See what happens. Oh, and I've had another signup for my PIF. Yay! Welcome to Ulla from Ulla's Fibre Blog. I'll have craft jetting off to Sweden, how exciting. Room for one more yet...

A little bit of christmas........

2008-12-06T15:49:00.002+10:00

Here we have an approximately 8ish year old ufo. Despite the previous list of to do's I decided that I wanted to indulge in a little bit of Christmas stitching and dug this up and finished it. Considering the short amount of time it took to finish and how nice it looks; it's a shame I didn't dig it up sooner. But anyways; I'm pleased as punch to be able to hang it up for this Christmas.
I have an Aunt who has even more UFO's than I have, as a matter fact I have very few in comparison. I might just send her a photo and challenge her to have a dig too. Anyone else up for the challenge?

I was also pleased to have Kris from Quilted Simple sign up for my PIF. I was beginning to feel a wee bit neglected so I was very happy to hear from Kris. I'm still open for two more lovely people to join in. If not I might just have to make my own choices and surprise someone with a gift.

Till next time .......... happy stitching!

Christmas Gifts....

2008-11-30T10:26:00.002+10:00

On the first day of Christmas my mother made for me (my teachers)........

five lovely fabric mug bags.

On the second day of Christmas my mother made for me (my friends)..........
eight stunning crazy patch hangers.

On the third day of Christmas my mother made for me..............

a hairy wookee costume for the school concert.

On the next day of Christmas I'm back to joining the green minkee squares together so that that quilt will meet it's deadline and be finished for a Christmas gift. Then I have two more mug bags waiting in the queue to be made as well.

Still no takers on my PIF. I know we're all busy just now but we'll soon be looking for things to do and we have 365 days to do it. I'm getting lots of practice at making giftees.

Try, try again......

2008-11-26T18:05:00.004+10:00

Yeh; I did it!! I have successfully uploaded the pay it forward logo. The rules I did last night. All I need now is for someone to sign up.

Pay It Forward.....

2008-11-25T22:01:00.003+10:00

I've done it! I joined up for Shelley's Pay It Forward; something I've considered but never done. I'd love for someone to comment and join in with me too. All I have to do now is work out how to transcribe the rules for you to follow. Here goes!

So, how does this work?
Well, for the first 3 people who will post a comment to this post, I will make you a lovely handmade gift each.
But, you must have a blog yourself, and be willing to pass the 'pay it forward' concept on. So you will then have to put it on your blog and make three gifts for other people.
Let's spread some happiness and have some fun!
So the rules state that I have 365 days (ample time!) to make a gift in. I'm more than happy to send something internationally - so everyone can be involved!!
What better way for everyone to join hands around the globe and share our crafty goodness!!!So... get typing, leave a comment and even if you aren't in the first three... it doesn't hurt to start your own chain of PIF's
So, I wonder who will be my 3 PIF recipients???

Alright, so I got the rules but not the picture! You can't have everything can you. But anyway, you all know what I'm talkin about, so I'd love someone to join in, just to prove I have visitors occassionally.

ALQS2 Swap

2008-11-21T20:18:00.003+10:00

Here's the lovely quilt I received from Tina at needles-n-notions. I'm thrilled with my quilt and thoroughly enjoyed yet another swapping experience. I'm looking forward to signing up again next year. Once again I have been introduced to yet another fellow blogger - I wonder how many there are out there. My quilt is yet to be received by ??. I watch anxiously for an indication that it has arrived safely. Too much effort there for it to have gone astray!

This week has found us sweltering here. We have had some welcome rain but feel for our fellow Queenslanders who are almost being washed away. It has also been the last week of school for my oldest who has finished year 12 today. He's hoping to get into university next year. We hope sincerely that he can fulfil all his dreams and do well in life. As a Mum, I'm feeling a bit emotional about it all. Not sure why - fear of the unknown, getting old, just being silly I guess. He's still here, won't be going anywhere for months yet, so I guess I might get used to it. Have to make the most of our time. But in the mean time, while he's off to a party, I have to rely on my friends. I'm looking forward to hopefully spending some valuable stitching time with a valuable friend tomorrow.

For now - I might have to turn off the computer. The lights are inviting in bugs; perhaps a sign of more rain to come. I'm certainly not enjoying them crawling on me - and some of them bite!

Swaps...

2008-11-12T20:00:00.003+10:00

My angel swap goodies arrived at last and boy was I thrilled. Not only did I replace the "old" pincushion with several newies but I also scored some things that I had labeled as "I'm gonna make one of them". And - I received 6!! items, instead of 3. Talk about spoilt! These wonderful sewing necessities came to me all the way from Oklahoma from Debbie at Okie Needling. Now I'm all set - a pin cushion for anywhere I may want to sit. Thanks again Debbie!

And lookie here! Another finish. This is my ALQS2 contribution. I have sent it winging its way all the way over the seas to ???? I hope my partner likes it as much as I do. Made with lots of consideration and care and some of my hand dyed fabrics too. It has been a lot of fun being involved in these swaps and I look forward to doing it again. It is especially exciting watching everyone's creations everywhere and wondering which might be yours. Thanks to the hosts for doing such a wonderful job and adding a bit of fun to our stitching.

In the mail....

2008-10-13T19:26:00.003+10:00

Just look what I got in the mail today! I was lucky enough to win Myra's giveaway over at tactile pleasures in fabric. I was just thrilled to bits and once again amazed at the generosity and thoughtfulness of people in blogland. And I got a threadkeeper; just like the other girls in the quilting gang; if anyone else wants one they'll have to call in on Myra for her tutorial. Look at all the bits and pieces I was sent! Thanks so much Myra.

And here's my little angel who is leaving me today to wing her way off to ??? as the third project for my stitcher's angel swap. I have enjoyed participating and am now looking forward to receiving my parcel in the mail. Thanks to Helen for organising the swap and also the ladies for their patterns they have shared with us. Best get busy on my ALQS2 swap quilt next; or that deadline will be here before I know it.

Finishes..

2008-10-07T23:26:00.003+10:00

Here's a photo of the finished minkee as promised. I had intended to add another photo of the completed blue and white table runner too but it seems to have been misplaced in the computer somewhere - that is if I remembered to take it in the first place - I can't remember that bit either. I should be in bed but when it's left to me to turn off the computer, one just has to check all is well in blogland before one retires for the day. Night, night. :-)

Swap Update and Thank yous...

2008-09-28T11:03:00.007+10:00

I have discovered the fun of swapping. Below is the beautiful bag and extra lovelies that Caryn
sent me all the way from USA. It makes me wonder how many quilting bloggers there are out there. In the three swaps, I have joined, all of my partners, either sending or receiving, are new to me. Despite the ever growing list of blogs I visit. What a great way to make new friends and share craft and happiness. If only the real world could be so friendly and happy. Caryn has also made me an extra bag which holds a miniature cutting mat so it all fits in for some portable stitching. What a great idea. Thanks so much Caryn, I will thoroughly enjoy my bag. And here's the bag and matching card I made for my partner Kim, also in USA. I hope that Kim gets as much enjoyment out her bag as I had making it for her.

Lastly is my first two projects for my Stitcher's Angel Swap. I have used two of the projects we have been given and am eagerly waiting to see what comes next before I decide what else to make. Natalie's Blue Wren's turned into Robin's when I stitched them in red to suit my partner's favourite colour. That could be taken as a hint, but won't help much considering there are 250 angels around the world. What an achievement in itself, to arrange a swap on such a grand scale. Who knows which of the lovelies I spy might be mine, or even if I have even discovered my partners blog. Guess someone out there is having a snicker.

Just to let you know. The pink minkee has been delivered and is now snuggling a new baby girl named Bridie. Will leave that for a photo for another day. Also Myra over at Tactile Pleasures is having a giveaway to celebrate reaching her 200th post. Will I ever make it that far? I've got a bit of time up my sleeve to think of a prize anyway.

Birthday Blogger.........

2008-09-07T18:02:00.003+10:00

And here's another birthday blogger. Jane at Jane's Fabric and Quilts is celebrating her birthday with a generous giveaway and has a georgeous new puppy as well.

giveaway...

2008-09-02T19:57:00.002+10:00

Just a short post. Have sent my bag off on a long journey somewhere over the seas. I hope it arrives safely and that ?? likes it. Am also on the last leg of the pink minkee quilt, hooray! Too many starts and not enough finishes.

Anna over at Around the Quilt Block has a generous giveaway going to celebrate her birthday.
Pop over and send her some bloggy birthday wishes.

Debutante Ball....

2008-08-24T21:07:00.004+10:00

We seem to have such a hectic life at present, mainly keeping up with the commitments of our children. Last night we attended a "Debutante Ball", which is a traditional introduction of the ladies into society. Our eldest son partnered one of his high school friends and we were so proud of him, he looked very mature and handsome in his black suit. Above is a group photo of the fourteen debs and their partners. Royalty for a night!

And here's a sneak peak of my bag off to ??? I've visited my partners blog and tried to choose something I thought she would like, let's hope that I chose well.

I'd also like to thank all the lovely people calling by for a visit; its great to receive your comments.

Pop over and say hi to Helena at Syverkstan, she is having lots of giveaways as an opening to her new blog and sewing studio in Sweden. Another enjoyment of blogging - visiting other countries; seeing and sharing places that I otherwise would never have the opportunity to visit.

Another giveaway...

2008-08-22T20:27:00.002+10:00

Here I am with another dull posting - no photos - but I just had to pop on and spread the word about a couple of giveaways. Quilting with Debi has some great prizes to share for her 200th post and Calamity Jane's Cottage has a lovely bag to giveaway. Can't see that I'm going to reach any great milestones soon, might have to invent my own reason. I'm pleased to say that I have received the odd comment, proving I've had a visitor now and then. That's great! And I didn't even have to tidy the house! My bag for the bag swap is done and I'm sewing the pink minkee together. Promise I'll be back soon with some photos to share.

giveaways..

2008-08-12T15:49:00.002+10:00

Just a quickie to let you know that there is a giveaway here and here. Oh and the bag is coming along just great, almost done in fact. Sneak peek when I get to the camera next.

The way is clear...

2008-08-11T09:08:00.002+10:00

I did it! I tidied up the last mess and even attended to a basket full of ironing. The way is clear for more sewing! I also finished sewing on the binding on our group quilt; and have finished all the blocks for the pink and white minkee quilt. Next on the agenda will be to sew the said minkee blocks together and to make a start on the bag for the bag swap.

If you would like to venture over to Lise's Hobbyblogg, she is one our blogging friends from afar who is having a giveaway for her 100th post.

I'm still here....

2008-08-09T09:54:00.003+10:00

It's so long since I've made a posting; and I can't show what I've been up to. I've been sewing like mad, some very late nights; to get a secret project in the mail by the due date. I made it, however have nothing to show but bags under my eyes and a big mess to clean up so that I have room to start again. Is it keeping out of mischief or creating our own? Oh well, there are worse things we could be doing.

On the minkee front, I'm afraid they were pushed to the backbenches; however the green bears get carted around when I'm sitting waiting for kids etc. so there has been progress on their faces, and there are only ?? of the flower blocks that require their centres stitched on and all those blocks will be ready to be sewn together for the pink and white quilt.

I uploaded a photo of a kaleidoscope quilt I made as part of a workshop my quilt group did. It was a great experience to share and we were all amazed at the designs we turned out. My quilt started out as a piece of fabric with ships on it. If you look closely you can see a whole ship floating amongst the swirls hence naming the quilt "Lost at Sea". I thoroughly enjoyed making this quilt and would like to do it again.

On the blog front, Crafty Giveaways is having yet another giveaway in her attempt to make some room.

Hopefully won't be so long between posts next time.

Till then; "happy stitchin".

Giveaway Alert!!

2008-07-21T17:47:00.001+10:00

Found a great giveaway at Debbie's Quilts and More, it's well worth the visit so pop over and say hi!

Photo update

2008-07-15T15:10:00.003+10:00

Here's some photos, like I promised. The bears on the pink minkee are finished and waiting, the flowers have been started. As you can see there is a new minkee on the go too, nothing like a bit of variety to keep things interesting.

And here's a table runner I decided I had to add to the list; using up strippy bits from a log cabin quilt. I was going to wait till it was totally finished but thought that might keep you waiting too long.

butrfly2200 and Sue Daley designs both have giveaways on the go at the moment too. Never a dull moment in blogland!

giveaway

2008-07-13T18:24:00.001+10:00

Blue Bird Quilts is having a great christmas in July giveaway. Pop over and share your christmas memories.

A Winning Week...

2008-07-04T21:32:00.002+10:00

I haven't had time for photos but just had to share the news. The fun started out when I found out last week that I had won the draw on Gail Pan's blog. Wow! That's two lovely new patterns for me to use. Then my aunt arrived. Her birthday is two days before mine and we also share our love of crafts and patchwork. So it was off on a shopping spree for we two birthday girls. Patchwork shops of course! She left on Wednesday (which was my birthday); and then Thursday I ventured to the post office. What a very exciting visit that was! Firstly the quilt I had sent away for our patchwork group to raffle had arrived home safely and so beautifully done. Secondly, I received a couple of cards and a gift voucher for some new clothes for my birthday. Gail Pan's patterns arrived wrapped in special patchwork paper with a handmade card attached. They are both so lovely!! And last but not least - and the biggest surprise of all - was a copy of the new "Material Obsession" book which I discovered I had won from a Down Under Quilts Magazine competition I had entered. Funnily enough I had read only this week that someone else (can't remember who), had won the book from the competition and I thought at the time - oh well, guess I didn't win. What a surprise! And it is such a beautiful book full of so many lovely quilts - I would guarantee you would want to make them all!!

Mum arrived yesterday for a visit for a few days. We went kayaking again today. We are enjoying such lovely days its hard to believe its the middle of winter at times. Colder at night and in the morning though.

The minkee quilt is progressing - will update with some photos soon.

From talent shows to haunted houses......

2008-06-26T19:32:00.006+10:00

This is my youngest son who this week participated in our school talent quest by singing like Kermit the frog - "What a wonderful world". We all had a wonderfully entertaining, fun time.

This is my oldest (at least I think it's him under the mask). They were off to the high school disco with a haunted house theme.

A friend also off to the disco, wouldn't like to be treated by this one.

These two are the zombie fairies. The one on the right is Rachel, my daughter.

Oh, and the minkee progress, its still coming along. About half a face to go and have done several with the blanket stitch. What an interesting, fun week. Tomorrow it's Friday, off to patchwork to catch up with friends and do a bit more sewing.

Family, Friends, Fun.......and rain!

2008-06-22T14:48:00.005+10:00

The long weekend end in June found us frollicking on the water. Here's a photo of the kids enjoying kayaking with friends.

But when if came time to sizzle the sausages for lunch, it decided to rain!

I have also been busy on the minkee quilt. Of the thirteen bears appliqued on the quilt, there are only one and a half more faces left to embroider. Next step - machine blanket stitch the bears.

This one was for a boy.....

2008-06-05T19:35:00.003+10:00

Here's a bright, colourful quilt I pieced for a new nephew. The animals are hand appliqued and the piecing includes a lot of hand dyed fabrics.

Off to patchwork group tomorrow - it must be Friday. Have embroidered the faces on about six bears for the new minkee quilt, just haven't got any photos to show for it yet. Oh; and I found another giveaway over on quiltygal's blog. Another newey to blogland, so pop over and make her feel welcome.

The Quilting B

2008-06-02T10:26:00.003+10:00

Just a quickie update. While browsing my usual I have come across a wonderful giveaway over at The Quilting B . Hopefully this link will work, this is the first time I have tried to do it. cu

Something different...

2008-05-31T17:37:00.005+10:00

Here's the results of a felting workshop my daughter and I attended today. Above are felted soaps. The woolen covering is supposed to extend the use of the soap and exfolliate the skin. Then when it is finished with, you carefully slit the end and it can be used for a small bag for jewellery, a small gift pouch or a pouch for lavender for your drawer. Below is my second project, nuno felting. Which means that the felting is done onto a backing fabric to give extra strength for the purpose of use as a cushion etc.

The next photo is Rachel's second project. It is a felted table runner.

We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves today, and enjoyed this new craft experience; however I don't think it is something I will need to have a lot of. Will be tempted to dabble a little further though.

Another Baby Quilt

2008-05-30T14:21:00.004+10:00

Here's a couple of photos of a cuddly flannelette shaggy quilt I made to use up some fabric from the cupboard. So quick and easy!

And here's something I'm proud of. A lovely orchid flower. One of the few things I haven't managed to kill....yet.

We're enjoying some much needed rainy weather at present, bringing the temperatures down lower too. Good stay in bed with a good book weather.

Baby Quilt

2008-05-25T09:48:00.004+10:00

Here's a photo of a shopping spree I had - and better still at someone else's expense !! This collection was purchased to make a baby quilt for my sister inlaw; who wants it for her brother's expected baby. Obviously they have found out it is going to be a girl. The main quilt is made from minkee fabric and is so beautifully soft. The two pink cottons are from the bunnykins range. Below is a picture of the first one I made for her (my sister inlaw's) baby girl a couple of years ago, it will be interesting to see any differences the fabric choices make, although the colours are much the same. I'll have to remember to take a photo of the finished quilt this time too!

A Little bit of patchwork

2008-05-22T10:29:00.002+10:00

As a start to adding a bit of patchwork to my blog, here's a photo of a chenille cushion cover I made as a Christmas gift. The centre square has been embroidered on my sewing machine.

Friday tomorrow - and it's our patchwork group day - always a good day.

Thought for the day

2008-05-15T15:05:00.002+10:00

Forever Friday

2008-05-15T10:26:00.000+10:00

I'm here!! I've been reading the blogs in blogland for some time now and wanted to join in the fun and participate in the sharing and swaps etc. Don't know that I'll have anything much to say that anyone will want to read, but anyway.

It took a lot of consideration in the decision of a name for the blog and I decided on Forever Friday because its a day that I look forward to in the real world. The last day of the week when you don't have that constant quandry of what to put on lunches and to have that uniform clean and ironed ready for school etc. You can leave a few things for tomorrow and just enjoy the time to yourself - sew if you haven't had time to all week. It's also the day of our fortnightly patchwork group get together. In blogland I can disappear for awhile - after all, it's forever friday!

The photo is an early morning shot from my front verandah, just to add a little life to the blog till I find something else to write about.