Sunday Stash Report

Can't wait to show you tomorrow's design wall -- same pattern as above, with two colors only, the same gold and red that has been up for a couple of weeks, but BIGGER. AND, notice this same picture added to the side wall -- the pattern is done, but I am checking it twice! If you put a pattern on the side for a least a week, it is easier to proof read.

Finished the quilt above last Thursday Night, (12.75)
Finished Year To Date, (364.25)
Purchased This week, -0-
Purchased Year To Date, 276.90
Net Busted, (87.35)

Goal is 100 busted yards, only 12.65 yards to go (and Houston is next week - oh no).

For more Stash Reports, visit Judy at Patchwork Times.

Blogger Quilt Festival - Nicole's Journey

My entry in the Blogger Quilt Festival -- Nicole's Journey

In 2009, I discovered Art Gallery Fabrics at the Houston Quilt Show. The feel of the fabric is amazing! I picked up a 1/2 yard bundle of the Color Splash Collection and held it for almost a year before using it for my newest pattern, "Nicole's Journey". For those following my blog, the L'Fair Quilt patterns are named for my family.

Nicole is my fourth niece, mother of 2 girls and 1 boy, and wife to Cody. Her Journey has been special story. For four years, beginning at a very young age of 17, she was the main caregiver to our Grandmother, her Great Grandmother, suffering from Alzheimer's. We moved "Nana" 400 miles away from her home in Texas to live here in South Louisiana with my sister Phyllis, her husband and two daughters. For the first year or so, Nana miraculously still knew how to sew. Nicole patiently filled several bobbins a day to allow Nana to sew all day, every day while we were at work. Our family will be forever grateful to this young woman's patience and dedication in one of the hardest times a family can be faced with.

Very soon, I will add the pattern for "Nicole's Journey" to my side panel for those who wish to have a PDF copy.

They call me "The Ripper"

This is the view I have from my sewing machine. Although I have been quilting tops for a couple of weeks, this design wall kept whispering to me -- "please fix me"! My attempt to have greenery around the red poinsettias just did not work. The green was boxy and blended with the red. So...I ripped. I really like ripping - am I sick or what. I have replaced the green with more golds ... the whispering has stopped.

Now .... back to quilting my top so I can link up to the Blogger's Quilt Festival -- which by the way starts Friday, Oct 29th through Nov 5th. Don't be shy -- post a quilt -- then sit back and enjoy the show.

Design Wall / Quilting Top

I am about half way finished quilting the top above. The pattern is a simple all-over flower. The pattern is written, and will be ready to post after the Blogger's Quilt Festival Post. Amy has asked that "give aways" (this pattern is free) be avoided out of respect for her sponsors, so I will post separately after the Festival Post.

The design wall has not changed much from the last time. It is actually the same pattern as the quilt above -- but will be a smaller version for table topper. Over to the right (out of camera shot), is another project which I cannot share yet -- but soon. My Christmas projects have also already started -- so most will be shown after Christmas. However, there will still be plenty to share.

I am linking up to Judy's Design Wall Monday's at Patchwork Times, and can't wait until tonight to check the other Design Walls.

Sunday Stash Report / New Border

I am quilting the finished top with the new border. I snapped this picture while it was on the design wall --- you can see how this pieced border finishes the flowers. I like this much better.

Stash Report -- Behaving myself right now so I will have spending money for the Houston Quilt Show. By next week, the above quilt will be completely finished, so my "finished" numbers will be much better.

Purchased this week, -0-
Purchased Year To Date, 276.90
Finished this week, -0-
Finished year to Date, (351.50)
Net for the Year, (74.60) --- Goal is 100.

I will link up with Judy at Patchwork Times today, so check out the other stash reports for inspiration.

Finish #27 / "Goose Has Left the Pond"

Just in time, I have finished the "Goose Has Left the Pond", pattern by Larisa Keys (published by Quilter's Newsletter in November 2001. This is my 27th finish for 2010!

I am linking up at Amy Lou's "Sew and Tell Fridays", so hop on over to visit other finishes.

One Step Forward, Two Back

Remember this one above -- yep, I finished it. Didn't like the border, spent two days ripping and went in a different direction. I will show it later after I sew the new border on -- the old border will end up on a scrap quilt, so no waste. As soon as it is quilted, I will post the pattern (PDF).

On a good note, the "Goose Has Left the Pond" (pattern by Larisa Keys) is done! I am adding the label tonight and will post for Friday Finish. The last border was such a "booger" -- can I say that? Well, it was...the thread gave me so much trouble for some reason.

Hoping for Sunshine to take the pictures outside -- have a great Wednesday!

Monday, Stash Report, October 17th

The above quilt ("The Goose has left the Pond", pattern by Larisa Key) will be posted later this week when the binding is sewn down. The top was custom quilted rather than an "all over" design -- with all the piecing involved, it took a long time but it was worth it.

In early November, I will be heading to the Houston Quilt Show -- can't wait! As part of my routine, I try each and every long arm machine...longing to bring one home. Last year, I fell in love with the George, because it was a sit down model and most like what I do now. However, I have this large window overlooking the neighborhood that would be a perfect location for a long arm. I have been trying to convince my husband how much I need it. When DH asked how much --- I answered sweetly --- "About the same as one of your boats in the barn"! Yes, it will bring the cost of each finished quilt up a few notches, but how many people have actually sat down and calculated the price per pound of the fish in my freezer :)!

Now, back to reality.... Stash Report:

Purchased this week, -0-
Purchased year to date, 276.90
Used, (.5) yard (Only quilting tops this past week)
Used year to date, (351.5)
Net, (74.60)

For more stash reports, visit Judy at Patchwork Times.

Log Cabin - My Favorite

Yesterday, I missed out on the block lottery at our quilt guild. The block was a log cabin, one of my favorite blocks. I made this Lob Cabin quilt for the 2009 Cancer Relay for Life, in honor of a co-worker, Jimmy who lost his life to cancer. The cool story .... the winner of the raffled quilt was another co-worker, who donated the quilt back to Jimmy's wife. L-R, holding the quilt, Angie, Me, and Tella.

I guess it is time to make another Log Cabin Quilt.

Fall Block Lottery

Today is our Guild Meeting -- I just wish I could stay. I will be popping in to drop off my Lottery Block above, a 10" Fall log cabin block, with the cheddar center.

Our Fall 2010 Survivor Bee has also started -- we are each assigned a player from the TV's Survivor Reality Show. The first one eliminated won a floral FQ from each of us. The last one standing will win a near solid fabric (each of us has been assigned a color) and the runner-up -- a block made by each of us.

Have a Great Friday!

Retreat Quilters - Final Tour

Joyce is modeling her beautiful framed flowers. Each block introduced us to a new scene in her garden.

Ann's applique project of hearts and vines was beautifully done. Notice the heavy duty freezer paper she is using -- ummmm -- might need to try this.

What do you think of Luci's block? Guess what - it is the back! Can you imagine something more perfect, look below at the front. Luci is using a pattern called Eagle Creek designed by Patricia Cox.

Mary's machine embroidered blocks from the Jewels in Chocolate pattern by Sarah Vedeler Designs was outstanding. I only wish the camera could have captured the amazing work.

Sorry to say, this was the last of my tour of the Stone Creek Lodge during one of many scheduled retreats. A special thank you to Sharon for allowing us to visit her lodge and put this on my wish list of places to run away to.

Early this morning, I came across Lizziebeth's blog post of her adventures at the Lodge, so hop on over if you want to see more talented quilters having fun on a retreat.

Monday Design Wall & Columbus Day

I am still quilting tops, however I made a few blocks with the pattern I am writing using an alternate scheme -- Christmas Colors. This will probably be a square table topper, but since I really like making this block, it may be larger.

Today is Columbus Day -- I have to work. Depending on where you live, Columbus Day is either celebrated in a big way or not at all. For me, it is a big thing.... I was born in the small town of Columbus, Texas. Although I have lived in south Louisiana most of my life, I still have family and friends there. So.....for those who celebrate, have a Great Day!

For more Monday Design Walls, visit Judy at Patchwork Times.

Stash Report, 10/10/10 and Goose Has Left the Pond

My "long arms" are falling off! For over a week now I have been quilting tops.....one of them above. Some time ago, I finished "The Goose Has Left the Pond", designed by Larisa Key. The picture from the sewing machine bed was too dark, so this one shows the amount of piecing involved. My deadline for finishing the quilt is fast approaching, so I must behave and stay focused. I have another top with a pattern to share, however I want to completely finish the quilting and binding before the final pictures are taken.

Stash Report:

Used (finished) this week, (18.5)

Used to date, (351.0)

Purchased this week, 14.5

Purchased Year to Date, 276.90

Net Busted, (74.10) GOAL IS NET BUSTING 100 YARDS --- I REALLY NEED TO GET WITH IT!

I am taking a break and heading over to Judy's Patchwork Times for a "look-see" at other Stash Reports. If the weather continues to dictate how much we finish, many of us are in trouble. For two weeks now, South Louisiana has been gorgeous and I have been heading outside as much as possible!

Retreat Quilters, Part 3 -- Antique Quilts

Pearl brought this antique quilt her husband received from his Great Aunt. The quilt, c.1930's was from the pattern "Harrow"???? I researched the pattern and could not find anything, so I may have wrote down the wrong name. The quilt was absolutely beautiful -- perfectly stitched.

Carolyn's story of the Dutch Dolls just tugged at my heart. Back in the mid 1930's, her mom made four of the Dutch Doll Blocks and ended up giving them away. Fast forward, Carolyn came into possession of 29 Dutch Doll Blocks which she has finished into this quilt, four of them her mothers. Carolyn is not sure which ones are her mom's, but just knowing they are part of her quilt must be comforting.

As much as I like sharing my own quilts, this little adventure was such a treat. I loved gathering the stories from each of the quilters and taking the pictures of their prized possessions. Stay tuned, Part 4 coming soon.

Retreat Quilters, Part 2

Pam is making a T-Shirt Quilt for her previous boss's son. This quilt is a homerun for sure!

Linda claims to be a wardrobe seamstress -- I think we can all agree she has crossed over! This stunning quilt is from the Atkinson Designs, "Winners Bouquet".

Can't have a retreat without a few patriotic quilts. The R/W/B beauty above was made by Ettee, who unfortunately was not available for pictures.

Julia was VERY busy! Above, her R/W/B patriotic quilt and below a huge quilt using the "Far West" Block and fabric exchange.

Lois has made the "Watermelon Picnic" by Black Mountain Quilts. I love this quilt -- using my favorite color combinations, she has created a wonderful quilt.

Stay tuned, Part 3 coming soon.

Stone Creek Lodge and Retreat Center, Part 1

One of the highlights of my trip to East Texas was the tour of Stone Creek Lodge and Quilting Retreat Center, located in Kountze, Texas. I had no idea what to expect...my niece Kristy set up the visit with the owner Sharon. WHAT A TREAT! I didn't want to leave. I visited with each and every quilter at the retreat, whose work is absolutely amazing.

Above, from L-R, Mollie (owner's sister), Joan (her mom), and Sharon, the owner. Look at the kitchen! Wish I had one like this (well sorta - I hate to cook). They are busy preparing meals for the hard working quilters -- a few highlighted below, with more to come later. I did not take a picture of the bathrooms, however just image a spa!

Gloria is holding several of her bow-tie blocks. Gloria makes 120 blocks every three months for their guild exchange. WOW!

Here is Margaret -- one of the quilters who truly understands the meaning of retreat! Comfortable and enjoying every minute. Here we have her Around the Prairie top she is making from her guild's batik fabric exchange. Margaret was such a doll!

Vicki is a seasoned blogger, from Red Hot Polka Dots. Her Bug Quilt is cute as a button! My sister Phyllis LOVES bug quilts -- you should have heard the oooo's and aaaaaa's!

Since coming back home, I am busy quilting tops (not much in new projects started), so having these ladies give me permission to show off their talent has been great for everyone. Stay tuned -- more to come.

Houston Quilt Show, Family and Quilts

"Missy's Fall Garden" is on its way to Houston for the International Quilt Show. Moda will have a booth to promote the Moda Bake Shop, so be sure to stop by and see the Moda projects and goodies.

Above .... my second niece Missy Marie, with her namesake "Missy's Fall Garden". Missy is mother to two young men (can't say boys - they will be reading this). Trevis and Kannon with their mom below, standing with the Moda Leftover quilt. When we all get together, we have mass confustion with husbands...Kristy's husband Mike, Missy's husband Mike and my husband Mike! Good things come in three.

Stay tuned -- tomorrow's feature -- Stone Creek Lodge and Quilting Retreat.

Quilts with Family

It was a gorgeous weekend in East Texas --- perfect for pictures. Above, my brother Tiger and sister in law Christine's oldest daughter Kristy Lynn, with her namesake "Kristy's Dream". Her dream -- to be a great mom -- can you tell her dream came true below -- FOUR times!!!! Kristy and her husband Mike are so blessed.

Alleigh Joyce (named for our mother Joyce Marie) and Emma Grace, the two oldest girls enjoying the sun on their identical quilts made last year. They share a pink bedroom, with pink twin beds, pink accessories, pink..pink...pink!

Back in June, I featured finished Quilts #20 and #21 -- Red/White Coins waiting for delivery to Kristy's two youngest girls, McKinley Nicole, 4-months and below Piper Michaell. Aren't they adorable?

Tuesday -- Missy Marie (with Missy's Fall Garden).

Design Wall Monday - Birthday Girl!

Phyllis and I returned from Texas late last night and I just rolled into bed after dropping her off. I had NOTHING on my design wall, so I snapped a picture of hers which is stunning! Phyllis has been working on this project from our stash of red fabric and is almost finished. The blocks are 8" finished.

The Birthday Girl, Rayna and her grandson Byran. Our parents had all four of us in five years ... and now Rayna is the last to become part of our 50's Club. Although the two youngest live in Texas the other of us in Louisiana, we continue to have a very close relationship. To make it even more special, our cousin Monica (five months younger than I am) drove in from Eagle Lake, Texas to celebrate the induction of Rayna into this very special club.

All this week, I will be sharing the other highlight of our trip to East Texas.... a surprise visit to the Stone Creek Lodge and Quilting Retreat in Kountze, Texas. My niece Kristy has mentioned the lodge on several occasions, however nothing could have prepared me for this. I met the owner, her family and the most amazing quilters who shared their projects and stories with us. I could have stayed there all day!

For more Design Walls, visit Judy at Patchwork Times and be inspired.....

Shop Quilt Top & Texas Weekend

My sister Phyllis and I are heading to East Texas for the weekend for a birthday celebration with our youngest sister, Rayna and her hubby Norman who share the same day. Our brother Tiger will complete the foursome, along with his wife Christine and lots of nieces, nephews, and cousins .... including Kristy and Missy, the namesakes for my first two patterns in the right hand margin.

The shop quilt top above is finished for my part .... the Quilting Niche will quilt it with their longarm. Debbie, with Fancy Girl Designs created the pattern with kits available at her shop and at the Quilt Show in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, October 8, 9, 10th.

My stash report will have to wait until Monday, when we return. Guess I better pack the elastic pants, cause there will be lots of BBQ and Birthday cakes!

Be sure to check out more Sew and Tell projects at Amy Lou's.