Finished!

Several years ago after completing my cancer treatments, I thought it would be great to make a "cancer quilt" as a symbol of my struggles, challenges and successes. So, I purchased pink and brown fabric and planned on making a Log Cabin quilt design.  The center block would be the "cancer ribbon."

A few blocks were made and then for one reason or another, they were set aside.

  

Off and on through the years I would pull out the blocks and fabric, look at them, and put them away.  Finally, I decided I didn't want to make a large quilt but also didn't want to waste the fabric I had purchased.

Then I found "Remembrances" by Jo Morton and since I love the Churn Dash pattern thought I'd make her "Peppermint Twist" quilt.  I made several blocks and then like the Log Cabin blocks they got stored away.

Recently while sorting through my unfinished projects, I came upon them once again and decided it was time to do something or get ride of the fabric.  But I no longer wanted anything big, so I sewed a few blocks to those already completed and made this small table topper.  I didn't separate the blocks, just sewed them all together.

It's not my favorite combination of fabrics anymore, but at least it is finished!  

Block One Done

I recently joined the Australian Stitch-A-Long group as I have always loved the designers and have purchased many patterns and books through the years.  They are an amazing and talented group of ladies.  Many of their designs have been stitched and displayed in my home as well as given as gifts.

So, when I accidentally stumbled upon the group, I asked to join.  Now along with 16,000 plus members I am delighted to see their work and to be able to participate in this Christmas sew along.  It's also fun to see pictures posted from around the world of members.  There are some very talented ladies out there!

I just completed my first block designed by Helen of hugs'nkisses.com. and can hardly wait until next Wednesday to see what treasure will be posted.  

It's Been Awhile

Can't believe it's been four months since I posted.  You would think with being in lock down for much of that time that all I had was time to write and post.  But,
for some reason, it didn't seem like I had much to say or show.  For the longest time, I couldn't make myself sit down to the sewing machine or pick up a needle and work on my stitcheries.  I felt so isolated from everyone and everything.
I'm still not at the sewing machine although I've been doing some stitching on projects that have never been completed...and they're still not!  But, I am making progress.

With the good weather, I find myself wanting to be outside working in my yard and soaking up the sunshine.  My daughter gave me one of her gardening boxes and so I am doing some square foot gardening and loving it.  It is just right for me.  Today while out weeding, I noticed a little tomato forming, 2 yellow squash, 1 zucchini and a cucumber.  I've been picking spinach and lettuce to add to my salads, mug quiches, etc. Nothing like fresh produce!

New recessed lighting in my kitchen and dining are and living room has just been completed.  I can't believe the difference it makes.  Everything is so bright and cheerful.  Have wanted to do this for ages but took some time to save up for it.

For some time I have followed some Australian blogs and have wondered where they find their wonderful and delightful stitchery patterns.  I love many of the Australian designers and follow them by ordering or purchasing their patterns and books.  Just the other day I stumbled on the Australian Stitch-A-Long group and was so excited to join the 16,000 plus others who have joined.  As I scrolled through posts I was delighted to find patterns for many of the stitcheries I had seen posted.  Now today I printed off my first block for their Christmas project.  This has really excited me and I can't wait to get started.  So grateful these designers are willing to share their talents and gifts with us.

Ok, enough dialogue that is probably very boring.  So, here are a few of the projects I am working on: 

Postcard Cuties for Halloween from Bunny Hill Designs

More baskets from Aunt Bea's Parlor

"Written in Thread" from Bareroots

Table runner from class I attended a few years ago

Completed wallhanging from same class as above.  Now hangs in my daughters home

There are a couple of more projects in the works, but this is probably enough for now--maybe too much.

Hope everyone is staying safe and well.  We have had spikes in the virus the last couple of weeks so it's good to have projects and blogs to read!