Lavender Between The Cracks

Block # 1 For The Crazy Quilt Journal Project 2012 and Some Krenik Thread Info

2012-01-17T17:03:00.000-05:00

Hi Friends,

A little late but I am posting my first block for the Crazy Quilt Journal Project 2012.

When I first joined the challenge in November, I had plans of doing something completely new and different.

Perhaps round blocks, something I have always wanted to try and then further challenge myself with lots of new stitches.

However on Christmas, my precious Grandmother's health began to decline rapidly.
This quilt challenge was quickly put on the back burner until her 93rd birthday January 8th.

A dear friend digitally repaired this picture of Grama from the early 1920's and I decided this would be my January block.
I used pastel colors that she loves and included a doily ~ she has crochet hundreds of these in her lifetime.
In light of her illness, I feel like doing the familiar and making each months block related to my family and the holidays we love to celebrate.

I used Krenik Thread's in most of the block after recently stocking up at Thistle Needlework's in Glastonbury, Ct
The new colors are just magical and the woman there explained something to me I never knew!

Do you see on the second line of the price tag where it says 4203?

That means thread number 42 and 03 are blended together for this color!

Here you just see # 029 ~ this is not a blended color.
If it said # 4229 ~ it would mean # 42 and # 29 were used to make the color.
I found this a really cool tool to use when choosing colors!

These are not great pictures but look at how the Krenik threads stand out ~ sometimes the french knots look like beads.

Did you ever try making one of these tags you have probably seen all over the Shabby Chic blogs?

All you need is a plain tag, scrap fabrics, lace, glitter, glue

and love in your heart to fill in the blanks!

I made this one today for a pal recovering from surgery.

I have so many more things to share with you but am pressed for time so check back soon!

Crazy Quilted Christmas Gifts and A Special Request From Santa

2011-12-22T23:27:00.000-05:00

Santa's elves have been as busy as a little elf can be creating gifts for Christmas!
Remember I told you in my last post about my pal Pat's idea of turning those ugly nightlights into a truly beautiful piece of art?

It starts with this $1.99 nightlight ~

Crazy quilt a block to fit the front of your light ~

I finished off the edges with a slip stitch by hand, then used Tacky Glue and clamps until dry.

Here's the finished light ~

and a couple more.....

The Kreinik Christmas Cracker, also Pat's design, was a super fun project and went quickly.

I cut the cardboard tube inside of Christmas wrapping paper to size, then stitched a block that would fit around the tube with a little extra wiggle room.
Simply sew lace edging to both sides and sew in place around the tube.

Go HERE for instructions you can download.

You can add silk ribbon poinsettias, Christmas Trees and wreaths.

I filled it with Christmas candy and it is on it's way to someone special.

I did two picture pillows on dupioni silk, one of a beloved pet that passed away ...

and one of a new born baby ~ I think Olivia's grandparents will like it.

Now that the last of the out of town gifts were shipped today, it's time to tackle the ones close to home. I have some of my happiest moments in this tiny room wrapping gifts and twirling ribbon with scissors just like Mom and Grama always did.

The house is all decked out ~

and my great grandmother's rocking chair is waiting for Santa.... just in case he gets a little beat up trying to go down our fireplace with no chimney ~ lol!

(decorating tip ~ use vintage Christmas Aprons as tree skirts)

By the way Santa ~ remember those jammies you gave me on my First Christmas?

Well how come I was still wearing them on my 3rd Christmas??

If you could find it in your heart to hook me up with a new pair of slippers I think we can just forget that whole "same jammies for 3 year" incident.

Love ya Santa!!!!

Crazy Quilted Clutch Bag and Other Great Idea's for Sewing and Giving

2011-12-01T11:55:00.002-05:00

When I saw the pattern for a crazy quilted clutch in Pat's latest issue of Crazy Quilt Gatherings
I had to try it!
This was such a fun and easy project!
Halfway through I got in the middle of a dog fight and was still able to finish even with 6 nasty bites on my hand.Because of the ease of this project, the motivation stays with you to finish it!

It's so exciting when you are turning your piece right side out !

Not such a great pic but this is the clutch once the lining is sewn to the front ~ at this point you just need to sew the sides together.

This is the clutch with the flap up....

and the back with the flap still up.

Don't forget to add your tag! Every fabric artist and sewer should have their own tags ~ visit etsy.com for great deals on them.

The finished clutch.

Click below to order issue 4 where this pattern is available.

The winter issue of Crazy Quilt Gatherings

After the holidays I might even try my hand at a BoHo Bag!

I have drawers full of beautiful decorator fabric samples perfect for these bags.

Click the link below for all the instructions to make your own BoHO Bag.

BoHo Fever

For now, I will be busy crazy quilting night light shades as Christmas gifts. I just found the night lights I had bought to do this project a few years ago. This was a mini craze Pat started in 2009 by just being her creative self and sharing the pic's on her blog. We all wanted to try our hand at it and I got as far as buying the lights. I have always liked being way ahead of a trend or way behind ~ lol!

Click the link below for Pat's 2009 blog post about these beauty's!

Crazy Quilted Night Light Shade

(this one pictured is Pat's creation)

Are you ready for Christmas?

I put my trees up right after Halloween except for the real tree but my "To Do' list is still mostly undone. Regardless, it is the giving part that gives the Joy. Let the Lord do His magic through your hands ~ honest He will.

Last week, I was out several hours, feeling weak and had to eat. I can't just eat anywhere anymore with the Celiac but for some reason stopped at this burgar place in a not so great area to get a plain burgar without the bun...when the worker asked me if it was to go. I found myself saying "I'll eat it here." I shocked myself....as I said I wasn't in the best area.

Shortly after, a guy in his late 20's, not very well dressed, came up to me and asked me if I had a black seabring. He said he had just hit my car. I was so taken with his honesty.

We went to the parking lot, my car had paint from his car on my tire and a thin scratch about 10" long.I was overcome by a forgiving spirit that was not my own. I walked to his car to tell him not to worry about it and saw his side bumper was cracked in half and hanging. It was an older car but you could tell he took great pride in it.

We walked back in the restarant and he thanked me. As I sat to finish my burgar, a voice in my heart that I know to be the Lord's reminded me I had a good deal of money in my purse that Frank had given me and I had forgotton put away at home.

I knew this was a set up by the Lord and that money was for this man.When I went over to his table, he had the look of deep sadness. I handed him the rolled up money and explained it was from the Lord.I hugged him and walked out.

I cryed all the way home, thinking how our Precious God had me in eating at a place I'd never go to, in an area I'd never spend time in....all because he wanted to bless this man.

I remembered all the times He had done this for us most recently this past winter. My husbands work had slowed down to a trickle, we had a large amount of money we needed to pay our mortgage and out of the blue, a check arrived in the mail for the EXACT amount we needed from a most unexpected souce.No one knew what trouble we were in or how much we needed, only God.

It's funny, I never meant to share this story but maybe someone needs to be encouraged.

If your in trouble know your Father in heaven hears you. No matter how little or how much you have, don't ever doubt our Heavenly Father can't use your open hands to be His angel to someone on this earth.

A Peak at My Crazy Quilting Project and Thanksgiving Recipes Including The Best Banana Ever From JunkGarden!

2011-11-23T09:58:00.000-05:00

Here's a little peak at what I am working on ~ you can see I haven't finished the beading on the leaves but I thought I'd share it anyway!

Isn't stitching over rickrack fun! It always reminds me of my childhood ~ didn't just about everything have rickrack on it in the 1960's?

There won't be time for stitching today though!

You can see out my bedroom window it's a dreary, rainy day...

just perfect for baking and preparing for Thanksgiving!

The turkey is soaking in it's brine bath until tomorrow morning and one of the busiest days of the year is about to begin for me...baking, cleaning and last minute shopping.

All my babies will be here, Jaci, Cher, Tony,Franky, Ashley.

As I am preparing, my mind always goes back to Thanksgivings past with my Mom, Grama, Frank and aunts, uncles and cousins in Maryland and South Carolina.

All of my traditions come from there and I miss them.

Teddi is already tired and the day had just began.

The guest room is ready for Jaci ......

Christmas wrap is waiting for it's big debut this week -end .....

and Christmas cards are ready to be addressed.

Here is a gluten free version of Paula Deans Pumpkin Bars that I found on celiac.com

4 eggs
1 2/3 cup sugar
1 cup oil
2 cups flour (I used white rice, brown rice and tapioca)
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 15 ounce can pumpkin

Mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, baking powder in a bowl. In another bowl mix the eggs until they are fluffy, add sugar, oil, and pumpkin. Mix well. Add dry ingredients and blend until smooth. Bake in an ungreased 9" x 13" nonstick pan and bake for about 30 minutes. I used a greased glass pan and had to bake them a little longer. Cool and frost. I used this cream cheese frosting recipe:

2 ~ 8 ounce packages of cream cheese softened
1 stick of butter softened
2 tablespoons half and half
2 cups confectioners sugar
Blend butter and cream cheese. Add sugar and half and half. Mix until fluffy and frost.

Or how about this amazing dessert from Junk Gardengirl Blog which she calls

THE BEST BANANA PUDDING EVER!

Click Junk Garden Girl Blog for recipe.

Have a Blessed day of Giving Thanks!

"I do not think of all the misery, but of the glory that remains. Go outside into the fields, nature and the sun, go out and seek happiness in yourself and in God. Think of the beauty that again and again discharges itself within and without you and be happy."- Anne Frank

Crazy Quilted Neck Pouches and A Book By Dorothy Bond

2011-11-18T16:41:00.000-05:00

Hi Friends!

I thought I'd share some of my recent listings on Etsy.

There will be more in the coming days.

I was so excited to be having a booth at a Holiday Fair at my sister-in-laws corporate building but this darn anemia from the Celiac has left me temporally without the energy to pull it off so I will be listing other items I was making for the fair very soon.

I used Pat's technique for making her pouches and modified it to fit the size I wanted.
I wish I could whip things out quickly but unfortunately it takes me hours upon hours to make these because I over think every stitch. (Please tell me I'm not the only one??)

Still ~ they are one of my favorite things to make.

Now how about this!!!! I goggle Dorothy Bond's name every so often hoping to find her cute little stitch book in a price that fits my budget ~ half of the $50.00 or more that they are going for.
Recently I came across another book ~ I believe the first written by her ~ on ebay for less than $15.00.
It was written in 1977 and had class papers enclosed suggesting it was from a class someone was teaching on crazy quilting.

Here are a few pages ~ sorry they are sideways.

If any of you have info on this book ~ Id LOVE to know more!

Dorothy's greatest goal was to revisit old stitches found on vintage quilts and share them.
It reminded me of my teacher from about 10 years ago that introduced me to Crazy quilting ~ Leslie Levinson who was doing work for Caron way back then.
We spent a whole class once studying a 100 year old quilt and copying stitches, it was wonderful and I still use those patterns today.

Thank you to all the woman who have determined to keep this art alive!
I encourage you to place your treasures in your local and state fairs and plaster your work on facebook and twitter.

She watched and taught the girls that sang at their embroidery frames while the great silk flowers grew from their needles. ~Louise Jordan Miln, The Feast of Lanterns

From the manner in which a woman draws her thread at every stitch of her needlework, any other woman can surmise her thoughts. ~Honore de Balzac

All my scattering moments are taken up with my needle. ~Ellen Birdseye Wheaton, 1851

Methinks it is a token of healthy and gentle characteristics, when women of high thoughts and accomplishments love to sew; especially as they are never more at home with their own hearts than while so occupied. ~Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Marble Faun, 1859

Radio City Christmas Spectacular ~ The Rockettes' Magical Journey

2011-11-18T15:45:00.001-05:00

Beautiful swirling living candy canes with legs a mile long.....

as enchanting dressed like a solder....

as they are as stylish New York shopper.

Magical fireworks...

hundreds of dancing Santa's

proving the ole' fella can be everywhere at once.

Children's visions alive on the stage....

as well as every one elses.

And the highlight of the show is the acknowledgement of the true reason for Christmas ~
the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ...

All within the four walls where movies stars of every generation have graced the stage and walked through this lobby.

Radio City Music Hall and the Rockettes ~ good deals are available on tickets if you act quick.
Go to radiocitychristmas.com/mcdc or Ticketmaster call 1-866-858-0007 and use code MCDC
for Two for One Tickets. This is only good for certain shows.

Part of the money benefits the Ronald McDonald House.

I have been to the show about 10 times in the last 15 years and would say this years is one of the Best!
I recommend getting seats no more than 15 rows back, center row but any seat is really okay.

Go to this link for some fun and fascinating reading on a former Rockette from the 1940's.

Learning To Live With Celiac Disese

2011-11-08T17:35:00.000-05:00

When I found out a few weeks ago I had Celiac Disease I was shocked! I didn't have the usual symptoms, nothing more than feeling bloated and being very tired. After blood work and a biopsy of the small intestine ~ it was confirmed.

( Better than hearing this I guess ~ lol!)

First let me say ~ the biopsy part called an endoscopy seems like it would be awful right? Plus a colonoscopy at the same time, basically a tube down each end ~ lol!
I promise you it didn't hurt, I was asleep and didn't feel a thing! Don't EVER be afraid of getting either procedure done.

Now here's the thing ~ lots of you have this and don't realize it.The statistics are something like only 1 in 100 that have it never get diagnosed. It can causes almost every kind of other disease because the gluten in food is like poison to a Celiac person. Remember, its not an allergy but an autoimmune disease.

The little villi on the small intestine get damaged so your body can't absorb the proper amount of nutrients causing every kind of secondary disease you can imagine.
For me it was mental confusion, depression, no energy and a stomach that could go from flat to 6 months pregnant in 5 minutes!

The cure? Stop eating gluten ~ that's it! No meds, no surgery, just a healthy diet!

When my step dad got this several years ago, I couldn't have imagined anything worse. How would one live without pasta, the crunchy end of Italian bread dipped in olive oil, cranberry bread and Italian pastry's.

Well just a few weeks in I can say I have found lots of great substitutes. The stores are starting to carry lots of gluten free items, yesterday I found gluten free Rice Krispies so I can make Rice Krispie bars.

The other day I made my family stuffed shells and baked myself a half of a spaghetti squash.
The last 20 minutes in the oven, I filled the center of the squash with sauce and a piece of fresh mozzarella. As soon as you put your fork through the squash, it shreds exactly like spaghetti noodles and taste 100% better!

Eating out is a challenge but many places carry gluten free menus.
We went to a wedding at the Longwood Inn in Woodbury just days after I found out and I had planned on speaking to the chief to quietly find out what I could eat. Was I ever surprised to find the bride had the same problem and every bit of the amazing meal was gluten free!

Here are some great links you can visit about eating gluten free and Celtic ~

Explains illness

What is a gluten free diet?

Places you can eat gluten free across the country.

Gluten Free Goddess Blog ~ great recipes!

Gluten Free Goddess ~ cheat sheet

More recipes from Mennonite Girls Can Cook blog

Why not ask for a blood test for Celiac on your next doctors visit? It sure can't hurt and may just chance your life.

Besides telling you some good recipes or products from time to time, I probably won't write about this much but please if you ever have questions ~ feel free to email me at tthreadart@aol.com

Current Crazy Quilted Projects and Hydrangea's From Our Garden

2011-10-25T22:31:00.000-04:00

Hi Kiddos!

No fall post here ~ I'm hanging on to every last bit of summer!

I thought I'd share what's been running through my needle lately.

This is a guest book cover I made for Mom's beach house.

I knew she would not like a lot of embellishment so I made it as simple as possible.

The use of Krenick Metallic threads added just enough sparkle for Mom.

My daughter asked me to make this remembrance for her friend who's Mom had just passed away.
I placed her photo on a vintage hanky ~ keeping it simple and respectful.
I can't control my tears throughout these kind of projects, always feeling the pain of the recipient and the love of the one who passed for the person who is left behind.

These projects are by far the most rewarding of all ~ far more than winning ribbons or any other accolade. I feel the hand of God moving through me when I am doing these and am in awe and honored He would allow me to do it for Him.

The 1st place winners from the Eastern States Fair (The Big E) have come home to Mama!
The pillow won 1st place in Original Needlework and Best of it's Division.

The Sunflower Bag won first place as well.
This bag was featured in Pat's "Crazy Quilt Gatherings "Fall Issue.

I'm not quite sure what this will be but I always have a crazy quilted block I'm fussing over and this is the current one. It takes me forever to make this blocks because I over think every stitch.

Her curls are made from countless french knots ~ my favorite stitch to do!

These tiny "people" were on display at The Big E.

It is from the book "Felt Wee Folk" and I have had a fascination with them since the book came out many years ago.

I started my own little girl ~ she doesn't have her face or her shirt sewn on but I have promised her she will be beautiful one day soon!
Her skirt is made from of flowers petals I bought at Tinsel Trading several years ago.

My garden is hanging on to summer too!!!
Our trees are always the last to start to turn for some reason.... much to my delight!

No nasty frost has hurt my impatiens yet and yesterday I even picked a new batch of big fat green beans for dinner!

I picked these hydrangeas this past week-end from my garden.

My son gave me several hydrangea's this year not knowing each plant was one of my favorite colors!

I'm still in my flip flops but I'll admit I need the heat on when I have my top down on my car.

"Just before the death of flowers,
And before they are buried in snow,
There comes a festival season
When nature is all aglow."- Author Unknown

MenoWHAT???

2011-10-24T23:55:00.001-04:00

I was sure I'd breeze through it....you know mind over manner.

No drama, I'm healthy and strong......then it happen.

The depression, I mean was this that thin veil of depression I struggle with from time to time or was it something more?

Where did my organizational skills go ~ I had always prided myself in that.

I had one word for my husband ~

I felt like I was loosing my mind....and then a few weeks ago when I went to write my weekly history column for The Patch, an on line newspaper, I couldn't do it.

The task of organizing hours of research and turning it into a meaningful piece worthy of my readers.....had left me.

I still had my normal flow and have never had a hot flash in my life but at age 52 I had to wonder if this was the beginning of menopause.

After blood work showed I was at the beginning stages, my gynecologist sent me to a compounding pharmacy who specialized in .Bioidentical-Hormone-Replacement-Therapy.

Please research first if you are planning on taking synthetic hormones or what the doctors are offering as "natural" hormones.

Bio identical Hormones are made especially for your specific needs according to your blood work.
The compound pharmacist, working with your doctor ~ will change the prescription as hormones change.

Day five of taking the hormones.....I woke up feeling centered and calm inside.

The "crazies" had left me!

It has been one month today that I started and although I'm not 100% ~ I know for the first time in a long time that I will be.

I struggled about blogging about this. In a way I wanted to keep it to myself but I have never been one to be able to do that.
If I find a great deal, have some great food, I must tell the world so they can experience it to.
I have found an answer to something all of us girls will go through, maybe it will be your answer too.
How can I not share that?

When I was 12 and started to go through puberty, I went to the library and checked out every book I could find on the subject, then preceded to give "sex ed classes" to all the girls in my 6th
grade Christian School who had a million questions but were afraid to ask them.

Lucky for us, our gym teacher was suffering from a rather long illness and the sub just wanted us to sit quietly in the gym and talk quietly among ourselves.
That we did! I filled them in on periods,boobs, pads, boys, and insecurities.

I 've decided not to go that far this time but I think it's plain silly to be shy about these things, information is a powerful stepping stone to change!

I know there will be that one person out there in blog land who will read this and it will be like reading her own words.
It's for YOU beautiful lady that I write this.

It is also for three other beautiful girls I must do this thing right ~ my daughters.

Here is the course I've decided to take ........

1.Never start the day without a conversation with my Heavenly Father for direction and wisdom.

2. Bioidentical Hormones only.

3. Healthy, organic diet with a thick juicy milkshake or burger thrown in as needed.

4. Continuing to do heavy lifting (for me that is not at a gym but yard work and working around my house) and yoga.

5. Take the time needed to regain what I may have lost along the way and not feel guilty to do it.

6. Pay extra attention to skin care and keeping my teeth white and healthy. I realized I have been doing a pretty awful job at plucking my eyebrows so I just started getting my eyebrows threaded. For $10.00 every 6 weeks, it's money well spent and makes me feel great.

7. There will be NO toughing it out here! I have spent my whole life sucking it up and it is one of my regrets. It is not okay not to care for yourself, it is not okay to allow yourself to be mistreated.

Sometimes strength means admitting you don't have any at the moment.

I'm excited, hopeful.....its like a second chance and a new beginning!

Please feel free to email me with questions about anything ~ or if you need someone to listen.

Sometimes that's the best medicine of all!

I plan on writing about this from time to time and offering links and info as I learn along the way.

Let's laugh about it ~ even if it's between tears from time to time.

My plan is to spend the second half of my life healthy, happy and sexier than ever and most important...living in the purpose God has placed on my life.

Menopause = Men have to pause

He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust

2011-09-11T18:47:00.000-04:00

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.

Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.

He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.

You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday

A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you.

Only with your eyes shall you look, and see the reward of the wicked.

Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your habitation, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;

for He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.

They shall bear you up in their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone.

You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.

Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;

I will set him on high, because he has known My name.

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble;

I will deliver him and honor him.

With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.

Psalm 91: 1-16

Crazy Quilted Pouch and Info Pat's Autumn Issue of " Crazy Quilt Gatherings"

2011-08-16T14:55:00.001-04:00

This will be on it's way to my sister-in-law Brenda Keller as soon as I can break away and get to the post office.

I am being held hostage by a wonderful painter who is painting away the ugly dark 100 plus year old wood on my ceiling!

This is to remind her that us girls are special!

That men and children can be ~~%#&*^~~ um.... I mean nice.

And that we are well..... Angels to put up with it all!

( Look at Jake's reflection to the left of the picture below)

Shown below is a piece I did for Pat's Autumn Issue of Crazy Quilt Gatherings.

If you'd like to see it completed ~ you'll just have to order the latest issue!

It is a beautiful one ~ read about how to get it Here.

New York City ~ Lady Liberty

2011-08-16T14:16:00.001-04:00

Last Friday I jumped on the train to New York City on a whim to see two beautiful lady's.....

My daughter Jaci and Lady Liberty.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out Jaci's friend Brian was going to meet us at Bryant Park and join us on the Circle Line Twilight Cruise.

I know ~ very touristy ~ but I LOVE taking the Circle Line around the city.
You depart from the 42nd Street dock on the Hudson River and circle around the Island to the East River.

I get as excited as a school kid at the Domino Sugar sign.
It always reminds me of the one on Baltimore Harbor I loved when I was a kid.

Love this too ~ these factory's are long gone but thankfully the signs are there for good!

Brian and Jaci ~ just about as cute as they can be.

There she is ~ the other Lady that I love. Look at the red,white and blue sky ~

and the beautiful New York City Skyline.

We decided to walk the 30 some blocks to a Tapas Restaurant Brian wanted to bring us and we saw this along the way ~ the horse and carriage from Central Park being put away for the night.
Their stalls are on the second story ~ they walk up a ramp to get there.

The High Line ~ just an awesome thing to do in the city.
They turned the old raised (one and two story's high) railroad track into a walking path lined with plantings and sitting areas.
We walked on this until we got to 10th Street where the restaurant was.

Tia Pol ~ Tapas food and some of the Best I have ever had!

The restaurant used to be a bakery at the turn of the century ~ these heavy steel doors kept the danger of fire spreading to the next building at bay.
The bakery kept their ovens burning 24 hours a day to keep up with the demand.

Just a drive by through Times Square on my cab ride back to Grand Central Station.

I rolled in to Naugatuck about 2:30 am to Frank snoring away.

I'm glad he understands my spontaneous whims and knows I can take care of myself!

Teddi was waiting up for me though!

New York City

Summer in Connecticut ~ The Way We Like It.

2011-08-16T12:43:00.004-04:00

Heading out to the Long Island Sound on our friends boat, we pass the Port Jefferson Ferry .

We docked across from Fairfield Beach to watch the fireworks but God has surly set off His own display giving the man made kind alot to live up too!

America the Beautiful ~ Happy Birthday to Our Dear Country!

Coming back in to dock ~ we pass the Bridgeport skyline.

Around our house we like hydrangeas,

and mussels.....

our grand dogs Daisy and Jake (not shown are also Cutlet and Taylor).....

and my son Franky and future son Tony chillin'out out in the backyard.

We like to eat..... (Ashley, Cheri and Frank pictured)

and meet friends and family at Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport....

where they have great fish and chips and silly statues!

Farmers markets...

fairs on town greens...

American flags waving....

and my boy's first jar of his homemade pickles that he made from the cucumbers in his garden....

These are the good things that summer is made of here in my corner of the world.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Norwalk, Ct

2011-08-16T10:57:00.001-04:00

Sheffield Island Lighthouse ......an enchanting Thursday evening delight.

Jump on board from Norwalk Harbor, next to the Maritime Aquarium for a 30 minute ride through the Harbor....

...past little islands and pretty cloud formations,

until we reach our destination ~ the beautiful Sheffield Island Lighthouse.

Our chief is busy making our gourmet meal ~ everything is cooked on the grill including dessert.

After a few plate fulls of steamers and mussels, we take a tour of the lighthouse while we wait for our main course.
Handmade quilts cover the beds....

as sailboats drift by the 142 year old view.

Dinner is ready ~ your choice of lobster, steak, BBQ chicken, grilled salmon, grilled veggies,salad, corn on the cob.

After a wonderful meal and dessert of strawberry shortcake ,

we take one last walk around the island before our boat departs.

Happy 50th Birthday Frank!

You still have a surprise party coming up in September but since you don't read my blog ~ you will truly be surprised!

Go to the links I posted above for more information on this wonderful dinner cruise.

Redecorating Time!

2011-08-06T15:09:00.000-04:00

It's decorating time!

This year I have let my house go so it's frightening!

I feed off of my surroundings for inspiration in writing, creating art and feeling whole...its that important to me.

This rubs off in every area including the meals I cook and my enthusiasm to clean, or lack of as is the case now!

The kind of redo I have in mind is the no budget/ take from the grocery budget kind ~

You all know what I mean!

Here are some of my inspiration pictures from the internet.....

I love the way the chairs and table are grouped together with everything away from the walls.

The mismatched furniture is cozy and comfy.

This is the paint color I want to use in my hallway , does anyone know the name or brand?

In this photo the old architecture and chipped wood is striking!

There is a such a beautiful glow to this room.

Fireplace idea?

Love the cool, soothing feel to this room!

My supplies on hand are ~

1. A $20.00 drop cloth from Walmart which provides lots of yardage to do some slipcovers.

2. A large white, chipped fireplace enclosure that is sitting in the garage

3. A ripped wing chair

4. 5 packages of $4.95 tulle curtains from Ikea.

5. A promise from my husband that he will have someone paint our dark,dirty looking 100 plus year old wood beams and ceiling in the living room.

6. My 25 year old collection of Country Living, Martha Stewart, Victoria Magazine and Home Companion for inspiration.

I have just a few weeks to get this done as I am surprising Frank with a 50th Birthday party Labor Day week-end.

Wish me luck!

pretty bollster pilow!

Newest Crazy Quilted Piece and Happenings in Connecticut

2011-06-14T15:18:00.004-04:00

Wow I've missed you guys!

I look to the left of my post where all of your blogs are listed and I realize I haven't read a single post.

It kinda feels like walking into my home and having it be filled with new things.

I can't wait to catch up with you all.

I don't think I told you that in April I got my own weekly local history column on The Patch, a cool, hip online newspaper owned by AOL but with hyper local "issues" for towns all over the USA.

I always ask the Lord to "walk before me" in all of my endeavors and this was a case of him truly doing that.

My experience is writing this blog and editing for Pat Winter's magazine but I guess in truth, I have written almost all my life.

I remember running in the door and tearing up to my room to make a new entry in my journal when I was a teen.I have kept a journal since I was about 10 or 11complete with pictures of David Cassidy which progressed to Cat Stevens then Led Zepplin and on and on.

It takes me 2 days to write my column each week because I do extensive research. I have to be able to "feel" and have a clear understanding of the subject before I can write about it.

I love digging for info and sharing it, my town has an amazing past.

I have also been fighting a bad case of the blues....you know the kind that really gets a grip on you.

It hasn't slowed me down just made my mind feel like jello. I know you have all been there!

So enough of that....here's a little journey of the last month.

My work was recently in The Naugatuck Historical Society's sponsored Art Show.

I made this pillow/mini quilt with Pat Winter's beautiful silk ribbon and Pam Kellogg's hand dyed trim.

The butterfly was created on my embroidery machine. It is a Zundt Swedish design and though it is time consuming to make, it is absolutely beautiful when complete. I used water soluble stabilizer and netting in my hoop and carefully burned away the extra netting when the design was complete.

The center design is one I purchased from Maureen Greeson years ago before we became pals.
I was at a quilt show and had such a bad bladder infection, she let me sit is a chair next to her display to rest. Of course I didn't leave empty handed!

The Art Show was a fun evening of wine, cheese and local art.

The dolls houses displayed at the show were made by a local man ~ aren't they something!

Real "Naugahyde" stuffed toys. Yup that's right, one of the notable things our town is know for is the creation and production of Naugahyde. (It is no longer made locally)

These fish looked so real, it was amazing!

The best part of the evening was my beautiful kids coming and staying for the entire event. Jaci was away but from left to right is Ashley, Franky,Cheri and Cheri's love Tony.

I made this little doily wrapped pillow for the silent auction.

Artist Rosanna Shea made these beautiful cuffs. She also won the silent auction for the pillow I made.
We were excited to meet each other ~ another fiber artist in town ~ yippee!

My most beautiful work of art ~ my kids.

On to the garden.... it smells so awesome now, every flower competing with the other's scent.

Fairy cottages - I guess most call them Foxglove ;)
I could cry when I look at them they are so beautiful.

Look at our "new" Jake that my daughter rescued this February. He's just spotted a squirrly (that's what he calls squirrels) and I'm afraid he'd like to kill it.

We have lots of winery's in Connecticut and our favorite in Hopkins Vineyard.

We went with our pals Brenda and Pete for a wine tasting. (pictured from left Brenda, Frank, Pete)

What a scene to be surrounded by rolling hills of wine vineyard's, a live band, fresh food and dear friends.

This past week-end Frank and I went to the Connecticut Historical Society.
It was jam packed with a variety of different displays. If I had been alone I would have gone to Mark Twain's Hartford home afterward which is just down the road,however Frank couldn't endure another visit there ~ lol!

I had just written about the Columbia bicycle in this weeks column so was really excited to see this display!

Gosh ~ they didn't nix words in the 1800's ~ Man and Hors ~ right to the point!

We had lunch at The Cheesecake Factory in West Hartford afterwards. I am not a fan of "chains" but I was happy with the grilled fish taco. It was very fresh and light. This was the ceiling right above where we were seated.

Well that's been my month friends.

Have you all been enjoying Pat's magazine?
She pours so much of her beautiful self into it.
I'm so thankful for all of us crazy quilters and lovers of such beautiful art to have a dedicated magazine.

This dog collar was featured in the summer issue of Crazy Quilted Gatherings and I am putting it on my etsy site if you'd like to spoil your fur baby. It is one of a kind and to give you a guide about size ~ it looks just as good on my 14 pound Yorkie Teddi (no wise cracks ~ he's on a diet and had already lost 1 pound!) as it does on our 40 pound Jake.

Now hug yourself for me ~ treat yourself tenderly....see you soon!

Crazy Quilt Gatherings ~ New Issue is OUT!!!

2011-05-17T20:44:00.001-04:00

Ready for your enjoyment!

Summer 2011~ the second issue of Pat Winter's Crazy Quilt Gathering magazine.

Crazy quilt projects, tips, artists to meet. Crazy quilt bell pull, Crazy Quilt watch chatelaine tutorial, Crazy Quilt watch cuff tutorial, Silk ribbon embroidery, Bullion stitch pansy, Round Robin information, and so much more.

Teddi and I are so honored to be included in this issue!

Click Here to order!

Spring Has Arrived in Connecticut

2011-05-10T00:17:00.001-04:00

"Won't you come into my garden?

I would like my flowers to see you."

This Saturday my garden came alive! Here are some flowers in bloom and their meaning.

Purple Pansy's ~ thoughtfulness and modesty

Phlox ~ flame

Peony ~ happy life

Mallows ~ deep in love

Variegated Hosta unfurling

Pink tulips ~ caring

Bleeding Hearts ~ worthy of notice

Red Striped Tulips ~ declaration of love
(these remind me of the candy stripe dress my Skippy doll wore, only those of you who grew up in the 60's will get that.)

Lilly-of-the-Valley ~ sweetness and purity

Beloved Lilacs ~ first love

Variegated Shrub

Trillion ~ ador and zeal

Jacobs Ladder ~ come down

Looking up from one of my garden rooms to the garage/front yard.

Sweet Woodruff ~ sweet humility (and an important ingredient for May wine)

The pond blowing bubbles and rejoicing that spring is here!
(and happy that the dead goldfish have been removed)

Forget Me Nots ~ true love, memories and hope

Woodbury, Ct ....Frank's favorite fishing hole

Look carefully and you can see where the water wheel once was.

One the other side of the bridge ~ this quiet scene.

Dogwoods ~ I cling to you and longivity
( Greenfield Hill, Fairfield, Ct.)

The lovely church on the Green in Greenfield Hill.

Three of my four knuckle heads ~ Jaci , Ashley and Franky.(Cheri is on a fun adventure to Bermuda!)

Take in the excitement of season, put on something bright and do something fun!

Let us dance in the sun, wearing wild flowers in our hair...
~ Susan Polis Shutz

If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom.
~ Terri Guillemets

May Wine

If you ever had the pleasure of attending a lunch or tea at Caprilands in Coventry, Ct, you would have enjoyed this wine with your meal.

Add a half cup of dried sweet wodruff to a bottle of dry white wine.
Seal and store in a dark place, shaking every once in a while for about 1 month.
A few hours before serving, strain wine, then add 6 Tablespoons sugar, shake and chill.
Place in a punch bowel and add a bottle of champagne.
Float strawberrys and fresh fruit on top and Enjoy!

Kokoro no Te = Heart & Hand

2011-04-05T22:47:00.001-04:00

Spring has taken soooooo long to arrive this year ~ I had to take a break and create a cheerful project!

This was made from a pattern in the book "Kokoro no Te."

It is filled with Japanese inspired treasures to create.

They are all done by hand but are quite easy and relaxing to do.

This vibrant flower center is a pin cushion that can be removed to hold a handful of buttons.

This needle book contains 5 felt pages to hold many,many special needles and your favorite glass head pins.

The little felt cherries that hang are mini pin cushions ~ sweet as can be!

Here is a little pillow I made for my Pastor's wife Carmela, to thank her for a special gesture.

First I created the square pillow ~

then centered it in the middle of one of Grama's doily's and hand stitched the two together.

The doily creates a beautiful backing.

The pussy willows on my table are getting green shoots and promising spring is truly here.
Please do hurry!

And Spring arose on the garden fair,
Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere;

And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast
rose from the dreams of its wintry rest.
Percy Bysshe Shelley

April is a promise that May is bound to keep.
Hal Borland

Until then ~ let's eat Cupcakes!

Easy Cupcakes

• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour

• 1 1/3 cups sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 large eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add shortening, milk, and vanilla. Beat for 1 minute on medium speed. Scrape side of bowl with a spatula.
Add eggs to the mixture. Beat for 1 minute on medium speed. Scrape bowl again. Beat on high speed for 1 minute 30 seconds until well mixed.
Spoon cupcake batter into paper liners until 1/2 to 2/3 full.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool 5 minutes in pans then remove and place on wire racks to cool completely.
Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost with your favorite frosting recipe or decorate as you desire.

Recipe from the web site Cup Cake Recipes.com

Three Artistic Friends That Inspire

2011-03-14T00:47:00.002-04:00

"It is lovely when I forget all birthdays, including my own, to find that somebody remembers me,"

~ E. Glasgow

I wanted to share some of the beautiful hand crafted items I was blessed to receive for my birthday.

My blogger pal Jayne sent me these gifts tags.....honestly I have never seen any more beautiful.

They are dripping in rose buds, silk ribbon and rhinestones and were created by

Under The Night Moon on etsy.

Jayne is always sharing her favorite finds on her blog Bunny Chic Boutique and promoting fellow bloggers and etsy shops!

She also sent this adorable felt bird.....

and all these goodies ~ many she created herself ~ all wrapped in my favorite pink chenille.

I don't know how she knew but Jayne I thank you with all my heart!

I cried when I opened it because it was so unexpected.

This amazing hand crafted scarf was hanging on my door knob when we came home.

It turns out my friend Lisa (Christmas Cookie Queen ) who also is an amazing cook can do just about everything else to perfection as well!

(ummm.... she is also a mother of 6 ranging in age from toddler to late 20's)

This scarf was crafted with a beautiful yarn called Ella Rae Latte

It is a combination of alpaca and milk fibers.

As Lisa said, " Who knew milk had fibers!"

I have worn it every time I have walked out my door since.

It has already become somewhat of an adult version of a security blanket because I can feel Lisa's love whenever I wear it.

This is a felted bag and necklace she made for me last year.

She uses only the best of materials.

If you'd like to contact Lisa feel free to email me and I will connect you.

And then there is dear Pat ~ who's beautifully hand dyed silk ribbon rival any I have ever used.
Except for finishing up some I already have in my stash ~ Pat's is the only silk ribbon I will ever use again.
The colors are so rich. I love the multi colors ones ~ perfect for pansy petals!
She has blessed me in a million different ways and I am ever grateful!
(Pat offers directions on dying your own silk ribbon on page 36 of her magazine""Crazy Quilt Gatherings"

And so now at 52 years of age I realize this ~

"Age has extremely little to do with anything that matters.
The difference between one age and another is enormously exaggerated."
~ R. M.

(pictured below is the beautiful coat my daughter Cheri gave me)

And so another year has gone by. I am so thankful for the cards received and facebook greetings!

And so my gift for you ~ some birthday wisdom to consider.

"May you live to be a hundred years with one extra year to repent.'

~ Irish Toast

"Don't seek to recall yesterday that is past

Nor repine for tomorrow which has yet to come:

Don't build your hopes on the past or future.

Be happy now and don't live on the wind."

~ O. Khayyam

"Just to be is a blessing. Just to live is holy."

~ Rabbi A. Heschel

"Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be...."

~ R. Browning

Recipe for the easiest Happy Birthday Ice Cream Cake Ever

Take a half gallon of ice cream from the freezer.

Cover sides and bottom with a layer of lady finger,ginger snaps, oreos depending on flavor.

Place back in freezer until ready to use ~ then slice.

" Another candle on your cake?

Well, that's no cause to pout,

Be glad that you have strength enough

To blow the darn things out."

~ anonymous

Southport, Ct Quilt Show Featuring Elinor Peace Bailey

2011-03-07T20:36:00.002-05:00

Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Presenting the work of Elinor Peace Bailey ~

What a fun, funky gal!

And an entire collection of Vintage Quilts ~

my favirote next to Crazy Quilts!

The Southport Congregational Church where the show was located at was equally as beautiful!

I cannot count my day complete

'Til needle, thread and fabric meet.
~Author Unknown

I love sewing and have plenty of material witnesses.
~Author Unknown

Vintage Tea Napkin Becomes A Pouch

2011-03-02T21:08:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share with you a project I worked on today.

A special lady is going through chemo and needed a pouch to hold her beloved Rosary Beads.

I started with a heavy linen vintage tea napkin.

Beautiful hand tatting already lined the edges.

I stitched down the casing that holds the silk ribbon and added a glass flower and vintage pearl bead.

Because this sturdy linen fabric has stood the test of time ~ I was able to machine embroider the bible verse to the front.
Often these older fabrics will get beat up by the speed of an embroidery machine even with a generous amounts of stabilizer front and back.
I stitched the side and bottom closed and this pouch is ready for use.

For this project I used ~

Sulky Cut-Away Permanent Stabilizer
Robison-Anton embroidery thread
Kenmore Q Foot Blue needles

For beautiful tatting visit Wendy Shu ~ who was recently featured in Pat's "Crazy Quilt Gatherings"
Here or Here

"..... I am the Lord that healeth thee."

Exodus 15-26

A Masterful Book You Can't Miss by Lovey

2011-03-01T20:45:00.003-05:00

Lovey

A beautiful book has just hit the market that I just had to be sure you have heard about.
It is called " Fabric Photo Memories" by Lovey

This amazing artist named Lavette Debrow, better know as Lovey has been featured in
Sew Somerset, Studios and most recently in
Pat Winter's 1st Edition of " Crazy Quilt Gatherings"

There is something about her work that stands out to me.

Beautiful and masterfully done but there is something more.

Lovey's work has a heart and soul that is palatable.

You can taste and feel the love through her blog pages and beautiful works of art.

It may be that it is all dedicated to her Mom who celebrated her 5th anniversary in heaven this past February 25th.

It may be her deep Faith in the Lord that permeates her work.

I think it is all of these combined with her passion.

I celebrate Lovey and all of my beautiful blogging friends ~ even the ones that are silent.
You pour your passion into the thing you love ~
Combining all the ingredients and experiences of your own world into an expression of art that we all can enjoy.

You are all treasures ~ hidden in blogs and magazine pages and behind kitchen tables where you may never be found.
The passion for your art burns inside of you ~
how lucky are we all when a spotlight comes your way and you are a treasure found.

Consider Lovey a treasure found.

Go here to purchase your copy of " Fabric Photo Memories" by Lovey

Red Work, Roosters and A Springtime Poem

2011-02-24T11:14:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Friends!

I have been in my sewing studio all morning finishing up on a special order.

My customer loves roosters so I was able to fussy cut several from the fabric.

I Love this fabric ~ I have just about a half of yard left.

I got it years ago so I am sure it is out of production.

This little Rooster tote will add an extra splash of "cuteness" to her decor.

One of my etsy customers wanted her bread bag personalized for her sister ~

I thought it was a great idea!

Since the bags are already constructed I can do initials only at the top of the bag for just $1.00 more.

Well back to ~~fun~~ work!

And Spring arose on the garden fair,

Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere;
And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast
rose from the dreams of its wintry rest.

—Percy Bysshe Shelley

Angels

2011-02-19T16:37:00.002-05:00

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware."

Hebrews (13:2)

"Mother Teresa tells a story of walking past an open drain and catching a glimpse of something moving in it. She investigated and found a dying man whom she took back to a home where he could die in love and peace. 'I live like an animal in the streets,' the man told her. 'Now I will die like an angel'..."

- Mother Teresa of Calcutta ("Words to Live By")

"Let us be silent that we may hear the whisper of God."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

"As to prophecy and good fortune: angels can only speak of it - only humans can manifest it."

- Anonymous

"We are each of us angels with only one wing and we can only fly by embracing each other."

- Luciano de Crescenzo

" He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone."

~ Luke 4:10`11

This little angel is on her way to another angel in Florida....

This beautiful Rose if from an angel named Lisa.....found on my doorstep last week.....in celebration of her anniversary of being cancer free.

"All of God's Angels come to us disguised."

The WINNER IS.........

2011-02-17T20:11:00.000-05:00

And The Winner Is..........

Coralie Johnson from Charms of Days blog and

Vintage Cottage Home!

Thank you to all who participated ~ it was such a fun adventure.

Thank you so much Lisa for all the hard work putting this very special event together.

Lots of Love you YOU!

Oilcloth Shopping Organizer ~ Changed My Shopping Trips Forever!

2011-02-14T21:25:00.000-05:00

I think this may very well be the most useful item I have ever made!

It's started with the whole economy thing ~ we've all been hit by it.

Well ~ I needed to start using coupons again.

I also needed a place for my reading glasses, shopping list, pen.

It had to have a matching coupon holder,

And Velcro straps to hold it securly to the shopping cart.

It had to fold neatly to slip into my purse or back pocket.
It also had to be sturdy, cheerful and hold up to alot of wear and tear ~ oilcloth fit the bill!

Here's the one I made for myself and would not go to the store without !

Check out my Etsy Shop to have one of your very own in Pink or Yellow as shown here.

Would you prefer to try to make your own?

I made my pattern by first measuring the bar on the cart ~ then measuring how much space I would need for each item.

Oil cloth can be tricky to work with but the results are well worth it.

Let me give you some tips on sewing with oilcloth ......

You need a special foot since the oilcloth sticks with a normal foot as you sew.

For my Janome 10000 ~ I use a Ultra Glide Foot. It is plastic and cost was about $25.00.

I use a size 12 needle. My favorite brands are Organ, Schmetz or Kenmore.

Ironing is tricky if not impossible. I have done it with a cool iron and a pressing sheet but always finger press when possible.

When I will be sewing with oilcloth for the day ~ I will leave my stack of material near a sunny window.

The heat from the sun flattens it just enough. Also put it under a stack of heavy books if time allows.

This is the best sight in the world for Oilcloth Tips ~ Oil Cloth Addict

Here is where I like to purchase oilcloth ~ Mendels

"If you seek and angel with an open heart you shall always find one."

Make Your Own Tea Stained Rose

2011-02-13T16:26:00.002-05:00

Hi Friend's!

I wanted to share with you the Victorian Bags I have been working on.
I have them listed in my Etsy site.
Tea stained muslin was my first love back in the 90's.
Remember when tea stained dolls were all the rage?
I sold them at a local shop and spent hours dying muslin with tea and coffee so it has been a blast working with it again!

To make the muslin Rose like the one on the Fond Remembrance bag shown below ~
you will need a muslin strip about 12" by 1 1/2 ".
Start by folding the strip in 3rds long ways so it is 12" by 1/2 ".
Roll about 10 times tightly ~ this is your center.
Then roll and twist ~ roll and twist, letting the fabric loosen as you go,
you will begin to see the rose form.

Once the rose is finished ~
I use nymo thread and a heavy needle and from the back,
I run the thread through the layers from one end to another until it is secure.

For added embellishment use scraps of lace, vintage leaves from old hats, sequins for the center.

Does that all seem a bit too confusing?
Just rip a strip of muslin this size and begin to play.
Don't use scissors ~ for that time worn look.
You will likely create your own special flower that is all your design!

Or just come by my Etsy shop and order one!

" I have now taken of the kernel of your life and planted it in mine.'

~ Margaret Fuller 1845

Mystery Reveled! Those Pic's I Posted And What It Was Like To Be On The Nate Berkus Show

2011-02-12T22:21:00.003-05:00

Mystery Reveled!

Last week I started posting random pictures here and here of nooks and crannies in my home and pics of myself.

I wanted to explain but couldn't until now!

I was contacted by The Nate Berkus Show to participate in one of those swaps he does.

They needed lots of pics and as luck would have it ~ my email would not let me send more than one at a time so I had to post the pics as a blog post so the producers could see them!

I wanted to tell you soooo bad ....... I'm sorry!

So let me show you a tiny bit of the behind the scenes.

Someone met me at the door of NBC and brought me to the green room.

Am I dreaming???

I shared it with a fun classy gal named Ruth and her sweetheart of a daughter Alex.

The producers kept coming in to rehearse with us. Between rehearsing, these gals kept me laughing!

This was me trying to be "super excited" as they kept telling us to do.

They had sandwiches, hot and cold drinks and baked goods for us but we were far too nervous to eat!

Then it was time for hair and make up.

Could this really be me??? Two stylist doing my hair?

This was the make up artist ~ fun and upbeat like the rest of the crew.

Call me shallow but after I took this pic ~ I realized what I was wearing made me look fat!

I have lost weight since the holidays and weighed 115 that morning.

Then I realized I am going to look 125 on camera ~ alot for my 5'1 frame .

Come on guys ~ you know you would be worrying about that too.

This is Jenny Pulos from Flipping Out who I did the swap with ~

my card shuffler for her heart.

Let me tell you she is a sweetheart! Very down to earth and the girl can rap!

Really! She is a rapper and won an award at The Apollo Theater several years ago.

Here's Jenny's heart in my window ~ I love it!

The producer kept telling me since I was the first swap ~ my energy would set the pace for the entire segment.
Normally my energy is always ramped at high rate of speed but I was SOOOOO nervous.
Somehow I got through my minute of fame ~ lol.
I mentioned what is always at the top of my brain ~ my kids.
I didn't say anything that was in the script they gave me and even though I had to slump down displaying horrible posture to show Jenny the card shuffler (she was a few steps down from my seat) ~ Nate was standing 1 foot away .
I got to look in his dreamy eyes and get a sweet Nate hug!
That made it all worth it!

If I ever had the chance to do it again ~ I would never be so nervous.
The producers and entire staff, Nate and Jenny were sweet as can be !

After the show was over ~ they asked us to stay so they could tape a few more segments for a different show.

They passed a basket around and we all picked one of these cards.

It was for NEW CAR!!!!

The winning number was 71 ~ the girl next to me had 70!
Her name is Sharon Terry, a writer,editor and all around nice person to chat with.
I have great interest in writing and editing and she has since sent me wonderful info on the subject.

After the taping was over ~ Ruth and Alex invited me to join them for dinner.

We ate at a great place across the street from the studio where I had the best seared tuna I have ever had in my life!

After dinner we shared a cab to Times Square where we said good bye.

I decided to go to one of my fave spots in NYC ~ the red stairs in the center of Times Square.

This was the spot I said goodbye to my friend Lori from LA a year or so ago.

Now her Mom is in the last days of her life and this seemed like the perfect place to call her and see how she was doing.

It was a highlight of the day to be talking to her here of all places.

As we talked I soaked in the wonder of all the lights and excitement in the City ~

even on a freezing cold Tuesday in February.

Thankfully Magnolia Bakery was still opened in Grand Central.
I have been happily sticking to a vegan diet since January 9th but had to have one of these baby's on the train ride home... it was the chocolate one that is missing ;O)

I came home at 12:30 am to dark house ~ happy to be Home Sweet Home.

As I cuddled in bed to my snoring husband, Teddi with bad breath in dogs and my IPAD for my nightly Solitaire addiction ~

I was so grateful for such an amazing day.

Grateful still more for my little home and seemingly little life in Conn.

which just for today...... didn't seen so little after all.

Show will be airing Feb. 23, 2011

Pat Winter's 1st Edition of "Crazy Quilt Gatherings" Coming Soon!

2011-02-07T19:32:00.000-05:00

The Excitement Is Building Friends!!!!

This Spring gives us something special to look forward to ~
the first issue of Pat Winter's magazine ~

" Crazy Quilt Gatherings... celebrating Crazy Quilting of Today "

As is always the case with Pat ~ she has a talent that stands alone yet she is always happy to bring all of us along with her.
The generosity she has expressed through her blog and to many on line friends has endeared her to us all.
Though all of our jaws drop at her work ~ she moves from project to project seemingly unimpressed with herself.
She is always willing to share and really that is what this magazine is all about.
It takes tremendous dedication to put one of these issues together ~ it is truly a gift from her heart.

Let's all take this journey with her as she shares her techniques with us and uncovers new talents along the way.
As she opens the door and lets us all in to her Crazy Quilting world, her purpose is not to impress but to share.
However as her editor I can promise impressed you will be!

Follow this link for more info about submitting your own work or placing an ad for your etsy,artfire etc.

It must remain a mystery ;)

2011-02-03T20:44:00.006-05:00

Places something special would live nicely .............

the distressed corner shelf in the living room

the breakfast table where I plan my day

Grama's desk from the Sears's catalogue 1925.....

already holding one glass heart in a tray of lavender and special beach finds

the metal table next to my sewing chair

In my kitchen....

on the tarnished silver tray that holds a dose of springtime and my coffee in the morning

the table in the sitting room that holds chalk for the message board and gives me a hard surface to for crazy quilting ;)

Random Pic's

2011-02-02T00:12:00.001-05:00

The British Journal Photographic Almanac

1948

Really awesome pictures that would look cool framed.

Recently on eBay for $46.00

Hamlet Leather printed 1902

on page 98 ~ a clipping of John Barrymore was in the page....kinda cool since he was held in esteem for his portrayal of Hamlet.

Funky Bailey's Cup ~ 1980's

One of those electricity conductors ~ not sure the age but a rich shade of brown ~ about 4 inches tall.

Hand made wrought iron tool or maybe used to cook? Purchase in Lancaster, PA.

Johnson Card Shuffler ~ 1951. Made in Chicago, Ill.
"The Complete Book of Games" copyright 1940 should go with this!
Filled with card games and crazy indoor and outdoor games.

Hammered Aluminum Crumber ~ 1950's?

Pink plastic party favors ~ 1950's ?

Crazy Quilted Neck Pouch and Another Special Reason to Look Forward to Spring!

2011-02-01T10:11:00.001-05:00

Springtime will be here soon and along with it the beautiful flowers,scents and warmth of the season.

There is something else exciting that will be arriving as well.......

Pat Winter's 1st Issue of her soon to be published

Crazy Quilting Magazine from McCloud!!!

Her work is so beautiful and unique and we will soon be able to glean some of her tips and eye candy in paper form!

The Internet will never replace a cozy spot in your garden or a warm lavender bath with magazine in hand.

Of course if you are currently having a love affair with Apple's greatest invention of all time ~ the IPAD like I am

it will be available there too!

Speaking of Pat ~ I made this tiny neck pouch following her tutorial at Pam Kellogg's Simply CQ

It is a new site with lot's of great tips and information for Crazy Quilters.

I made this for my daughter, it is about 2 1/2" long and just wide enough for a few business cards.

I also paid a visit toArt-E-Zine the other day.

I had not been there is such a long time ~ it is so jam packed with information,ideas,free things and amazing art.

Perfect thing to do on this snowy day!

"Only You can make your particular contribution to humankind."

- Thomas Kincade

One World, One Heart ~ WELCOME!

2011-01-30T12:46:00.000-05:00

One World One Heart, 5th and last

Welcome Friends!

Have a blast visiting....if you have come by once you are considered a friend.

Please leave a comment for a chance to win the Heart created just for you.

Open to all participants of One World, One Heart only.

"You soothe my soul, you fill it with such tender a sentiment that it is sweet to live during the time that I see you."

"My very dreams are yours..."

"Places that are empty of you.....are empty of life."

from the book "Love Letters "

Lunapic ~ a cool new site I just discovered

2011-01-26T20:32:00.002-05:00

I have been playing around with pictures of my work today ~ trying to create a new banner for my etsy shop I will be reopening in just a few weeks.

This picture wouldn't fit but I discovered a cool site along the way I wanted to share with you.

Lunapic ~ an online photo editor.

It does crazy cool stuff like adding sparkles, reflecting ponds, twinkling hearts and tons of other stuff to your photos.

You simply upload your photo and play to your hearts content.

Here is a photo of a pouch I entered at the Great Barrington Fair this fall ~
(double click on photo to see the photo dance for you)

Here is the Old Hollywood Effect

The Lego Effect

Reflecting Pond

(double click on this one as well)

And there it is smack dap in the middle of a $100.00 dollar bill!

Now I know how my fellow bloggers do all that crazy stuff you do with pictures.

Aahh ~ but the etsy banner.....still got some work to do on that.

"We are nearest the angels when we love."

J.Anglund

Flowers From My Garden ~ From Me To You

2011-01-18T10:22:00.001-05:00

It's all ahead of us friends......

Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet
and the winds long to play with your hair.

~Kahlil Gibran

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that He may exalt you in due time,
casting all your care upon Him,
for He cares for you.

1 Peter 5:6,7

Camera is Fixed ~ Catching Up

2011-01-13T15:48:00.003-05:00

9 Weeks Till Spring!!!!!

This beautiful Bouquet of Flowers were a gift from Pat when I was sick a few weeks ago.

There is nothing quite like opening your door to find the gift of flowers.

It melts my heart like nothing else and it always feels like an extension of God's Hand to me.

This holiday held some personal challenges that seemed to melt away when these arrived.

They STILL fill my sitting room with Beauty and Joy 3 weeks later!

Soon we will be picking daffodils from our New England gardens but until then ....

We have a little of this to go through....
A mere 29 inches of snow we got yesterday!

Frank made a snow tunnel for Teddi so he can go potty.

The backyard is full of snow drifts ~

This is all behind us but I thought I'd share a few Christmas pictures that I wasn't able to share because of my broken camera ......

The New York City Library

The Beautiful Christmas tree at Bryant Park

5th Avenue Windows.....

The Tree at Rockefeller Center

Grand Central Station

6th Avenue

Home Sweet Home ~ Our live tree in the living room

Our tiny Dinkins Village

The Victorian Tree in the sitting room

Beautiful Milk Glass from the talented Reen

Our Precious Teddi Bear

On Christmas Eve ~ these Beautiful flowers arrived from our friends Pete and Brenda.

I was stunned ~ my heart was flooded with Love.

Lisa's beautiful cookie tray that her husband Jay has brought to us every Christmas Eve for close to 20 years.

Thank You to Family and Friends for making a bittersweet holiday bearable.

And NOW on to New Beginnings ........

But that's another post.

Why not make someones day with flowers ?

ProFlowers.com

FTD.com

Teleflora.com

I'm In A Pickle!

2010-12-30T00:50:00.001-05:00

Oh Dear....

I have got myself in a pickle!

For the last few weeks my computer will not recognize my camera so I am unable to download new photos.

I have worked on fixing the Drivers ~ this seems to be the problem ~ for the last 2 nights with no luck ....

~ Sigh ~

So in the meantime I thought I would share some beautiful things to help you get ready for Spring.

Oh Yes ~ I am already looking for signs.

I even considered the fly in my home may be a sign of spring but my facebook pals said ....no.

(be sure to click on the names for links to each item)

Full-Moon-Feeder

Isn't this Beautiful! Cant you picture a grouping of these hanging from a favorite tree ~ one where the sun shines brightly.

Spa-Mister

Mom got me one of these at Whole Foods a few years ago and it is wonderful.

Add a few drops of essential oil and it instantly lifts your mood. I use it is my sewing room .

Self-Watering-Windowboxes

I will be getting these this spring for sure.
2 of my 3 older window boxes have fallen to the ground in the last 2 weeks ~ oh what a pity ;)
These have gotten great reviews for truly keeping plants moist in the hot summer months.

This Bird Feeder is sold out everywhere on line. When you consider these start in the $100.00 range and this one was under $30.00 ~I can see why. It also had great reviews.
The birds find their way in the tiny slot from the outside and next thing you know ~ you are having tea together!

Already the days are getting longer ~ isn't is exciting!
By the end of next month we will begin to notice the sun is a bit warmer.

This is a good time to catch up on doctors and dentist appointments, do some extra reading and get organized.

I hope it won't be too late to share pics of the holiday windows in New York City and a glimpse of Christmas in my little corner of New England.
Santa certainly was wonderful to me this year ~ He left me an IPAD, 2 beautiful paintings from Ikea, the entire I LOVE LUCY series and lots of other great things.
If anyone has a clue how to a fix Drivers on my Dell computer ~ please email me ~ tthreadart@aol.com

I just came across this saying and wanted to share it with you ~

Your circumstances are victims to God's Vision for YOU.

Teddi's Big Adventure at The Christmas Tree Farm!

2010-12-07T09:09:00.000-05:00

Dad promised me TODAY was the Big Day!

We were going to cut down a Christmas Tree!

We needed Mom to come to take pictures.... her and I wore matching sweaters!

Dad found an 8 foot beauty and asked me if I likes it ~

Yeah Dad ~ weeee ~ that's the ONE!!!

Daddy is so strong ~ he had it down in no time.

I jumped on the cart with the tree for a ride back to Dad's truck.

I made a new friend too! We were the same color.

She was a little too fresh though ~embarrassing with Mom there so....

I jumped in Dad's truck and said good bye.

Me and Mom are getting ready to decorate our beautiful Christmas Tree.
Here we are in our matching sweaters!

Mom will show you pictures when we are done decorating.

Hey do you think Santa reads this????

Just in case ~ here are some ideas for him ...........

Pet High Chair ~ maybe Dad would let me sit at the table with one of these!

Dog Umbrella ~ I hate when my bangs get wet!

Dog Topiary ~ I mean why not??? Mom has angels, frogs and duck statues in the yard.

Skirt For Boy Dogs ~ Hey there's a cute Scottish girl down the street...I think this might get her attention ;)

Paw Plunger ~ Okay fine ...I admit it. Sometimes I step in my own pee...need I say more???