bitty bits & pieces

Chair Makeover

2012-01-18T15:05:00.011-07:00

One summer day I happened across this really cute chair while shopping at our local Deseret Industries (thrift store). I walked by this chair and it immediately caught my eye. I looked at the price tag and was a little surprised at the cost but loved it so much that I continued to look it over.

Lots of thoughts went through my head as I stood there.

Thoughts like. . .

"Where am I going to put it?

"Do I have room in my already crowded sewing room?"

"My husband is going to laugh at me and think I'm crazy."

Lol. . . I loved that chair so much that I didn't really care what he may think and when other ladies started looking at the chair I showed an attachment to it besides, when they saw the price of $25 they moved on anyway.

It had lots of scratches on it and was missing the lower spindle between the two sets of legs so, I probably paid too much for it but, every time I go to Deseret Industries I see ugly chairs so when I saw this one I just had to snatch it up. I'm really happy that I didn't leave it behind especially after I painted it!!!! Keep scrolling and you'll see why I love it so much!

I knew immediately what color I wanted to paint it!

Any guesses? lol.

Yes!

It was Definitely. . .

RED!!

CHERRY RED to be EXACT. . .

And here are the awesome results of the make over.

Isn't she pretty?

Here's a look at the missing spindle.

But, I don't mind it so much.

It's such a pretty red when sitting in the shade.

My Cherry Red Chair looks totally awesome in my newly Remodel Sewing Room which I will be showing you really soon once I get the special quilt for my room back from the quilter and get the binding on it and I also, just need to finish the curtains too and then I'll be ready to take pictures and show it off.

Remember that flood we had in the basement before Thanksgiving and Christmas? Well, my husband surprised me with a makeover for my sewing room.

I'm sure you know that if you give a quilter new flooring for her sewing room that you're going to have to have new paint to go along with it, and. . . new curtains, and . . . a new quilt, and. . . and. . . I was hoping for a new Red Horizon sewing machine too but, that will just have to wait I'm afraid.

Anyway, I'm super excited to share it all with you in the not too distant future.

Mrs. Bitty Bits Cherry Red Chair.

2011-12-26T12:15:00.002-07:00

I hope all of you had a very Merry Christmas!

The photo was taken by me and is a picture of an ornament that hung on my mother's tree for many years and now hangs on my tree. It's one of those cherished ornaments that reminds me of my mother and the many wonderful Christmas memories from my childhood.

May you have peace and joy in the New Year!

Front Cover News

2011-12-11T21:50:00.001-07:00

Many of my quilting and blogging friends have been receiving their February 2012 issue of American Patchwork & Quilting Magazine and noticed that my quilt is on the FRONT COVER. I was hoping to do this post before it hit the stands but heck, that's been my life of late. I seem to be several steps behind in a lot of things.

First, I want to tell you how much I appreciate the sweet notes I've been getting. It's like receiving a SWEET GIFT each time a little note pops up in my mailbox. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! It really brightens my day : )

Every time I look at the magazine I think. . . WOW!!! I really made that!! WOW!!!

It's been a hard secret to keep and I'm super excited to finally be able to talk about it.

It all started when I took a few quilts to Spring Market earlier this year and I had the opportunity to talk to a few Magazine Editors. I was really nervous but they were delightful and easy to talk to. It was fun sharing some of the things I'd been working on and they actually bought two of my quilts right then and there. Wow! Super exciting!! I could hardly believe it!

Anyway. . .

I love making scrappy quilts so I decided to design a quilt that would use a lot of the fabric I have in my stash of 30's reproduction fabrics. It's borderline hoarding, probably, maybe. . . but, don't quote me on that. I also love all of the new fabrics that are always coming out so, I decided that I would mix the OLD with the NEW and make a very SCRAPPY quilt.

If you look closely at the quilt in the magazine and the pictures of the fabrics I used you will see some pretty old fabric. I've been collecting Aunt Gracie fabrics and other reproduction prints for many years. You will also see a lot of newer fabrics from some of my favorite designers like. . . Sandy Klop from American Jane, Lori Holt from Bee in My Bonnet, Monica from Happy Zombie, Flower Sugar Fabrics by Lecien, Amanda Herring from Quilted Fish, Denise Schmidt's recent collections, and lots of other designer's too.

I really wanted to give the quilter the ability to use their stash but also allow them to go shopping. Who wouldn't want to have some of the newest cutest fabrics in their scrap quilt? It was VERY HARD for me to STOP buying fabric. I kept telling myself, “Ooooh! Wouldnʼt this be cute? I have to have a bit of this!” I actually used over 150+ fabrics in this quilt. I hope you have fun playing with your stash and adding the newest cutest fabrics to your quilt.

Here's a picture of some of the fabrics I used.

Here's a view of the multiple HST's I made for the quilt.

Just so you know I did make about (8) 15" x 15" design boards to layout and plan each and every quilt block for this quilt. I like to call it "Organized Chaos" because I wanted the quilt to look esthetically pleasing yet have a totally random look I laid out 8 blocks at a time and would then sew them together. I also wanted all of the colors to be represented in each block.

Go HERE for Lori Holt's tutorial on how to make your own Mini Design Boards. I do need to let you know that I changed a few things. . . First I made my boards bigger and instead of using hot glue to adhere the batting I used spray adhesive on the back of the batting to adhere it to the foam board and lastly, I didn't make any binding for the 15" x 15" boards since that would be 60" of binding for just one design board and at that point I really didn't want take the time to make that much binding. I loved using the smaller and portable design boards to construct these and other blocks that I've made and I know you'll love them too.

Little Flooding Update:

We spent the weekend moving stuff out of one bedroom to the next so that we could paint. Now we have to move things out of the last bedroom so it can be painted before Thursday. That's when the last of the carpet is being put in. Yeah! Then the Christmas decorating and clean up can begin. I'm hoping by the end of the week I can get the tree decorated, the bedrooms put back together, and the curtains hung. My daughter and her BF come on the 21st. We are excited for the festivities to begin.

Attitude of Gratitude

2011-11-20T20:24:00.003-07:00

I've had this thought that's been constantly running through my head ever since I heard it. I'm sorry I can't remember exactly where I heard it or saw it but I do remember how it affected me.

"Blessings Come to Those that NOTICE!"

It caused me to be more mindful and reflective about my life and how blessed I feel to have a sweet and dear husband whom I love with a love that knows no end, a family that means everything to me, Children and Grandchildren who are priceless, Freedom that is a gift I cherish, a Faith that guides me, a Heavenly Father that Loves me, and a Savior that has Atoned for my sins.

I wanted to take a moment tonight to express my gratitude for each of you and for the blessings I see all around me. I have so much to be grateful for even when I feel overwhelmed by the challenges that are mine. Lately, I can't keep up with all that needs doing and I'm practicing patience and a positive attitude and trying to ignore the things that I can't get done at the moment I just want it done. I have little piles everywhere and I can't seem to take care of all of them. So, I have to remind myself. . . Just a pile at a time. It will eventually get done!

We recently had a little flood in the basement and that has set off a chain of events that requires a lot of cleaning, organizing, fixing, and painting. But out of that effort has come blessings. Like new carpet, new paint, and a fresh clean sewing/craft room.

We're still in a HUGE mess and it's just 2 days before my daughter comes home for Thanksgiving Break. I guess I better hurry and clear a space in her room since that's where I put everything from my sewing/craft room so we could paint and put in new flooring.

Anyway, I just wanted to check in and let you know that I'm still alive and doing well despite my little and big messes. I also, have some fun big news coming up that I'll be able to share the first part of December. I have been able to do a bit of sewing and designing this past fall while I wasn't blogging. I can't wait to share some of it with you.

Have a Wonderful and Blessed Thanksgiving Week with your LOVED ONES! I know I will.

Tea Party

2011-08-28T22:32:00.004-06:00

On Friday afternoon after a very busy first week of school that was also extremely HOT (with temps in the high 90's because of a broken AC Unit at school), I decided to take the grandkids to the park for a tea party. They needed to get out of the house and I needed to relax so I grabbed the tea set, a quilt, the grandkids, a few goodies and some very cold water to keep us cool.

The kids brought along their stuffed pets to join in the fun.

The grandkids really had fun eating snacks

and drinking water from our tea cups.

Animal Cookies at Number One!!!

Yummy!

Don't you just love the head tilt?

I just adore this little sweetie pie!

Don't you just love the miniature bridge?

It's actually my favorite part of our neighborhood park!

I don't know how I captured this picture.

My grandchildren are in perpetual motion.

They never seem to sit still!

I love the precious look on his face.

He starts kindergarten on Tuesday and we are all super excited!!!

Have a great week!!!!

First & Last

2011-08-22T09:29:00.003-06:00

It's hard for me to believe that it's the FIRST day of 7th grade for my LAST child and it's the LAST day of Summer before my FIRST day of School tomorrow.

Where we live the 7th graders have a day all to themselves before joining with the 8th and 9th graders on Wednesday. I think it's a great idea so they can all get started without the pressure of the older kids. They get to find their lockers, their classes and have lunch with their old friends and their new friends.

As you can see from the pictures Kenna is a bit nervous and anxious. I was happy that she went to sleep before midnight and seemed to keep it together. This morning she was pretty nervous but did a great job getting ready early and off to school on time.

She wanted me to hurry and take pictures before she left

but, I only got a few because she was so nervous.

It was sweet walking with her up our hill to the light by the corner.

I will miss walking into school each day holding her hand.

That thought made me cry inside.

I was staying strong myself!

She's my babe!

I stood at the corner watching her run off to school.

ALL by HERSELF!!!

Tears started welling up in my eyes. . .

but, I was felling extremely happy because. . .

This is a Monumental, BIG HUGE Step for Kenna!

Makes me PROUD!

Well, I'm headed downstairs to get in some sewing on my LAST DAY of SUMMER!!

By the way. . .

Where did all the time go?????

Quilt Lover's Heart Winner

2011-08-17T09:35:00.005-06:00

And the Winner is. . .

Anne from Anne Writes Here said:

"What wonderful women they were. My late mother was much like yours. She was always helping people. She loved children and the elderly. My mom died in 1995 at the age of 63. I miss her every day.

I phoned my sister and my dear mother-in-law and told them how much they mean to me!

Thanks for hosting such a wonderful giveaway."

Anne just send me an email and let me know your mailing address. Congrats!!!!

I want to THANK everyone for entering the giveaway and tell you how much I enjoyed reading all of the comments about your mothers, your sisters, your aunts, your friends, and those that you love. It especially touched my heart how many of you who have lost your mother's and how much you miss your mother's. They will always have a place in our hearts and I'm grateful for the women in my life who provide a shoulder to cry on, a kind word, and a comforting hug whenever I need it. They are always there!

We as women have the privilege and capability of comforting and lifting and blessing each other's lives through serving our families and those in the circle of our day to day lives.

Since every day is Mother's Day I wanted to share this heart warming video of young people talking about their mother's and wishing them a Happy Mother's Day.

Here's another video on Marriage called:

"Expressions of Love"

I really enjoyed watching this video!

One Day • Two Days

2011-08-14T17:16:00.006-06:00

In ONE DAY we are welcoming HOME, our daughter, Ariel from New Zealand for the 2nd time. She loved it so much when she went last year that she saved her money and went again, although, this time was different!! I can't say much because I'll get in trouble but, I will say that I'm sure she'll be going back soon! Very soon!!!

I can hardly wait to see her and we are all SUPER EXCITED to pick her up at the airport tomorrow night!!!! Yippee!!!

We will have her home for 8 days before she heads off to graduate school in Washington state. I will be crazy busy these next 8 days spending time with family and getting ready for school and helping Ariel pack her car with the things she'll need for the next 2 years of school. I really miss my kids when they are gone!!! Don't you? At least she will be closer than New Zealand. lol.

Now, Just a REMINDER that in TWO DAYS I will be picking the winner of the QUILT LOVER's HEART so, you'll want to make sure and leave a comment on my last blog post.

Go HERE to leave a comment.

Quilt Lover's Heart Giveaway

2011-08-09T09:59:00.004-06:00

Today we are going to have a very Special Giveaway and as part of the Giveaway David and I will "PAY TRIBUTE" to our Mother's and CELEBRATE their LIVES by sharing bits and pieces from Dorothy and Adelaide's lives.

This is a long post but it will be worth it in the end. Thanks for reading!

(Left) Dorothy Mary Repia McKenzie Buss (February 1935-September 1992)

My mother was born in Maromaku, New Zealand in February of 1935 (North Island) born to Murdoch McKenzie and Isabella Heperi. She was the 2nd girl and 3rd child in their family. She followed in her older sister's footsteps and graduated with honor's from Nursing School. My mother met my father while he was serving an LDS mission for our church there in New Zealand. After his return to America he kept in contact with her and eventually proposed. Six months later she moved to America and eventually naturalized and became a citizen of the United States of America.

In December of 1957 my parents were married in Salt Lake City, Utah. Less than 2 years later they had to move back to Wisconsin to help his father on the farm because he had taken ill. During the 10 years they lived there my mother worked as a nurse and added 2 girls and 2 boys to their family.

In 1970 my mother received news that she had breast cancer at which time our family moved back to Utah where she received further treatment for cancer. During this time my mother continued working as a Registered Nurse at Utah Valley Hospital. It was amazing to me how many cancer patients she counseled and helped deal with their own mastectomies. My mother had a zest for life and loved people. One of my favorite memories from my childhood is remembering how she would bring people home that she had just met, either at work, the store, or the laundry mat. She didn't even know them but she soon learned that they needed help in some way and would bring them home for dinner. I was shy as a kid and remember being a bit embarrassed that she would openly approach people at the laundry mat. Our washing machine often broke which meant we'd have to go to the laundry mat. I think my mother loved it there because she loved helping people. I grew to admire this particular attribute that my mother possessed and have since tried to follow her example in my own life.

In September 1992 my mother's life on this earth ended after 3 weeks in intensive care resulting in complications from a routine surgery due to her intense medical history. It was her time to go and as a family we needed that time to figure it out and to let her move on. What a tender mercy from a loving Heavenly Father to feel such love and comfort at the time of her death and to reflect and to remember her life and how she lived it. Thanks Mom! I love you with all of my HEART!!!! She was very happy to be a grandmother and loved and adored each of her 8 grandchildren. We have since added 8 more grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren to her posterity.

(Right) Adelaide J. McNutt (Excerpt from David's mother's life history)

AMMA’S LIFE JOURNEY

January 15, 1999 -- My Birthday Party at David’s and Rosie’s Lovely Home

Now I am here 90 years old -- what has my journey of life been? My family has wanted me to write something about my past. After my parents died in the early ’30’s, I wished that I had asked them about their past.
When you are young, you don’t think about that -- so here I’ve written some highlights to share with you.
As I was thinking, it occurred to me that the number “9” appeared to be significant -- I was born 1909, I came to California in 1929, my husband Ronald died May 9th and my room number is 109, and now it is 1999.
I was born in a log house in Manitoba Canada. It was so cold that the bed linen froze to the wall, my Mother told me. 1903 my parents immigrated from Iceland with 5 children: 2 boys - 3 girls - one is my sister Thora here now 102 years. They home steaded in a farming community 12 miles from Lundar town and not too far from Lake Manitoba where they could fish. My Dad’s sister and family had come a few years before and helped my parents get started with mixed farming -- it was a period of hardship for a while getting settled, but later things got better and 3 more children were added now 4 girls and 4 boys, now 3 of us are left.
Mother was a busy lady. She baked bread in a wood stove, sewed clothes, knitted from the wool of the sheep -- socks, mitts and even long johns. She taught us sisters all facets of homemaking and how to knit and sew for the cold winters.
Sadly, we all had a limited education as finances were not available to send us away to school. My Dad was a carpenter and cabinet maker, so after a few years, with the help of sons and neighbors, a new frame house was built. All of us children had farm chores to do according to age -- I had to milk 1 cow before walking 3 miles to school and when the weather was bad and Mother didn’t let us go to school, I cried. We all helped with the gardening and during haying season.
Mother was a Lutheran and Dad a Unitarian. When I was small, they had church services in our home and when they sang hymns, I cried, it must have been too somber!
At the age of 13 I was confirmed in Icelandic in a Lutheran Church 3 miles from home and I have remained faithful, now over 50 years in 1st Lutheran in Glendale.
We left the farm in 1927. Mother and Dad moved to town. At the age of 16, I went to work as a house maid in a grain growing district and after 6 months I left and went to Winnipeg to learn hairdressing. In 1929 my sister Thora and I came to L.A. to visit our sister Kristine who had lived here with her husband for 5 years. We intended to return to Canada, but got work and stayed on.
I got my California license and worked in a beauty shop for 35 cents an hour. Later I got part-time work in a restaurant where I met Ronald my husband. I used to take the street car to work, but one night it was raining and Ron took me home in an old Maxwell car, I was so grateful I kissed him on the cheek!! That did it!!
Ron came from Nebraska, had been working in different coffee shops and I told him I couldn’t marry him til he had a secure job. So he rented a small lunch counter and we were married in 1933. He earned enough to prepay the house we were renting - a small rear house that cost $15 a month. We furnished it with second-hand furniture that cost $75. Then the big earthquake hit and we watched the front house lose its chimney.
However the counter failed -- it was depression time. Then he found a job as manager in a hamburger counter where he fried hamburgers in the front window where passers-by could watch. That was right in downtown L.A. at Broadway and 42nd street. There he made enough money to prepay the Doctor bill of $75.00 as I was expecting our first child - our daughter Gloria, who had curly dark hair and weighed 10 lb. Two years later, son Kenneth came, not quite that big -- then some tough years followed until ’43 we acquired the Martha Washington Restaurant without any down payment -- these were the war years, then our “bonus” baby-boy David was born. So now we were blessed with three beautiful children and business was good and now we were finally secure financially.
We sold the restaurant after 15 years of hard work -- soon Ron got a job with the IRS. It was ’58 when we drove to Annapolis to attend Kenneth’s graduation from the Naval Academy. We also enjoyed seeing Gloria graduate from Redlands University and David from Cal State L.A. So I’m proud of them and 7 grandchildren and extended family. And grateful to God for 58 years together with Ron.
I feel blessed in many ways and each day is a gift from God to be treasured from here on and at the present I am satisfied and happy among many friends at Windsor Manor.
So here I am by the grace of God and I am very thankful to HIM.

IN THE 12 1/2 YEARS SINCE SHE WROTE THIS, AMMA BECAME A GREAT-GRANDMOTHER 9 TIMES OVER. THE TENTH BABY IS DUE IN FEBRUARY AND WE ASSUME THAT THE BABY WILL ARRIVE WITH ANGEL KISSES FROM BOTH GREAT-GRANDMAS.

Now it's TIME for the GIVEAWAY

I was super excited when David told me he wanted to send me a Quilt Lover's Heart and I knew just what I wanted to do with it. So, I asked him if he wouldn't mind if I had a giveaway for all of my reader's. I really appreciate your wonderful comments and for checking in with me from time to time. Keep the comments coming. . . I love hearing from you!

Here's the Grand PRIZE

(1) Quilt Lover's Heart

Because this is a really really special giveaway I'm going to have to make everyone work a little bit but, remember that entering the giveaway is totally optional and you can do (1) request or all (5) requests for a maximum of (10) chances to win.

Here's what you need to do. . .

FIRST: I want you to write, call, or email your Mother and tell her how much you love and appreciate her. This counts for (1) entry. Now if she's passed on like our mom's then maybe you could call, write, or email your sister, your aunt, your grandmother, or even your best friend and then tell them how much you love them. This would be a SWEET way to spread the love.

SECOND: I want you to go to David's Website, look around, and then come back and leave me a separate comment telling me which heart is your favorite for another (1) entry. Click HERE and then once you're there click on the bottom bar of hearts that says Lover's Hearts.

THIRD: You can Blog, facebook, or twitter about the give away for another (1) entry. Just remember to come back and leave me another separate comment. Thanks for your help in spreading the news.

FOURTH: If you ARE or you BECOME a Follower of my blog leave another separate comment for another (1) entry.

FIFTH: Now, here's your BIG CHANCE. . . if you decide to make a purchase on David's Website you will be entered an additional (6) times. Just leave me (6) separate comments telling me you purchased any of his Lover's Hearts. I will then verify with David on purchases made. Think of this as your bonus chance to win a second heart that you could keep or give to a friend.

The Giveaway will be open until the 16th of August at midnight. I will then pick the winner through random.org the next day and post about it soon after.

GOOD Luck to EVERYONE!!!

Now go out and SPREAD the LOVE!!!!

Thanks for visiting!

Quilt Lover's Heart

2011-08-03T14:00:00.001-06:00

While I was on facebook recently my eye caught an ADVERTISEMENT for a Silver Heart. I LOVE Silver and I LOVE Hearts so when I saw the AD I had hit a button on my computer that would move my screen to the next page. When I finally got to the next page I hit the back arrow on the browser, hoping to still see the AD and sure enough, there it was! I was relieved!!!

I clicked on the AD and it took me to the website where I started looking at all of the wonderful SILVER HEARTS. I was SUPER EXCITED and even took the time to contact the artist by email hoping to get permission to share a few pictures from his website and to look into buying my own HEART. I told him that I wanted to do a blog post about his work and tell all of my Quilting Friends about the Quilt Lover's Heart. He happily gave me permission.

So, Let me introduce you. . .

David McNutt is an emeritus professor, graphic designer, painter, book author, jewelry designer and babysitting grandfather.

In 2003 his passion for art led him to create the Art Lover’s Heart® a sterling silver pendant that sells nationally in museum stores. This success led to his design of hearts containing words that reflect the passions of David’s family, friends and people around the world. The Family Lover’s Heart, Hope, Friends, Nature, Music, Peace, Dance and many other Lover’s Hearts. The perfect and unique gift or your lifetime personal treasure. (Bio taken from his Website).

It's been fun conversing back and forth through email (and now by phone) with David about his work and giving him lots of ideas for getting his designs out there to the thousands of women that quilt. I also learned that the Quilt Lover's Heart was inspired by the LOVE he has for his Mother and her passion for Quilting. His mother recently passed away at the age of 102 years old and I know how much he loves her. It's been fun sharing stories about our mothers.

We are joining hands in his first step into the quilt blogging world. So, please join me in welcoming David to my Blog. This is a trial run for David in checking out other avenues of advertising and selling his designs. I will also be keeping a permanent link on my sidebar so you will be able to come back and link to his website whenever you want.

For your information: Each heart has been designed by David using Sterling Silver that has been cast and hand-finished in the United States. The HEARTS come with either an 18" Sterling Silver Chain or a 7" Sterling Silver Bracelet in a black jewelry box and includes free shipping. I've provided links in this post or just click on the picture of the Quilt Heart above to go to his website, then click on the lower bar of pictures (on his website) to see the rest of his designs.

Get this. . . He also does custom work. That means I could get a silver heart with each of my grandchildren's names designed into a Silver Heart. How cool is that?

I hope you will take the time to visit his website and look at all of his wonderful works of art.

I will be posting a very special giveaway in the next few days.

My Craft Channel

2011-07-28T10:20:00.007-06:00

I am super excited to clue you in on a new (to me) website and internet TV show called "My Craft Channel" and they have a great line up of Fall Shows with Hosts like Kim & Kris from DIY Dish (of Utah fame) and one of their newest Hosts are Amy Locurto of Living Locurto and Angie Arthur of The Arthur Clan.

Amy and Angie are the creators of I Heart Faces. If you love photography. . .you're going to want to visit their website and watch their new show in the Fall on My Craft Channel.

Quote from "I Heart Faces" about "My Craft Channel":

"It goes beyond the simple web “how-to” home video and delivers broadcast quality programming. With over 20 different new shows there is something for everyone.

Top experts, bloggers and craft celebrities in various niches from sewing, painting, scrapbooking, DIY projects, photography, mixed media and more have joined together to bring entertaining education to the web with TV formatted shows. Not only do the shows provide amazing inspiration, each day there is an opportunity for the “daily deal”, which gives viewers an opportunity to try out fresh new craft items at discounted prices."

You can read more about it HERE. (picture courtesy of "I Heart Faces")

Also they are giving away another Cricut in their 20 Cricuts in 20 Days campaign. Go join in the fun. . .

Supernaturally!

2011-07-26T18:26:00.005-06:00

I'm excited to tell you that today my oldest daughter and I went to Barnes and Nobel to purchase her best friend, Kiersten's, book SUPERNATURALLY. It's a great read and I know that the Young Adult in you is gonna LOVE it. PARANORMALCY (Kiersten's 1st book) was the first book that my youngest daughter has ever read from BEGINNING to END and she loved every minute of it. Kenna's been waiting patiently for Kiersten's book to come out along with all of her friends that she told to read the book the first book.

Description from Amazon:
Evie finally has the normal life she’s always longed for. But she’s shocked to discover that being ordinary can be... kind of boring. Just when Evie starts to long for her days at the International Paranormal Containment Agency, she’s given a chance to work for them again. Desperate for a break from all the normalcy, she agrees.

But as one disastrous mission leads to another, Evie starts to wonder if she made the right choice. And when Evie’s faerie ex-boyfriend Reth appears with devastating revelations about her past, she discovers that there’s a battle brewing between the faerie courts that could throw the whole supernatural world into chaos. The prize in question? Evie herself.

Some places you might like to visit:

To go to Kiersten's "Good Reads" page click HERE!

To go to Kiersten's "BLOG" click HERE!

To purchase Kiersten's book "SUPERNATURALLY" on Amazon click HERE!

We are excited to take our books to Kierstens' Book signing at the Provo Library in a week from today.

Here's the information on the book signing. You will need a ticket but they are free and can be picked up prior to August 2nd

If you can't make the first book signing there's another book signing on. . .

August 6th King's English located in Salt Lake City, Utah

Saturday, August 6 at 2 p.m.

Kiersten White will read and sign Supernaturally, the second volume in her debut trilogy for young adult readers.

In Supernaturally, a lot has changed in the six months since Evie escaped from the International Paranormal Containment Agency with her shape-shifter boyfriend, Lend. Evie’s not-so-normal past keeps creeping up on her and things get pretty complicated...

Kiersten White is the New York Times bestselling author of Paranormalcy. Born and raised in Utah, White graduated from BYU. She has one tall husband and two small children and lives near the ocean, where her life is perfectly normal. This abundance of normal led her to a fascination with all things paranormal, including but not limited to vampires, faeries, and pop culture.

See you in Provo on August 2nd!

Secret Revealed. . .

2011-07-20T20:52:00.005-06:00

Announcing. . .

Modern Blocks by C & T Publishing!

I'm excited to tell you that I have ONE (out of 99) Quilt blocks in this book.

I've only seen my block and the blocks that you can see on the cover.

I can't wait to see all of the blocks!

The book is scheduled to be out in October 2011.

But, you can pre-order it NOW at Amazon.

It won't be long before I can show you my block!

OH Happy Day!!!

2011-07-07T09:46:00.008-06:00

It's a HAPPY HAPPY DAY at our HOUSE!!!!!!

It's OFFICIAL!!!

I can finally shout the NEWS from the house tops!

My oldest daughter, Natalie Whipple of Between Fact & Fiction has signed a book deal for her debut Novel entitled, "TRANSPARENT" with Editor, Erica Sussman of Harper Teen!

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to her previous Literary Agent turned Author, Nathan Bransford (Jabob Wonderbar-and the Cosmic Space Kapow) for seeing and believing in my daughter's talent and to her current AWESOME Literary Agent, Anna Webman of Curtis Brown, Ltd. who has been ever supportive and encouraging.

I especially want to THANK ALL of her writer friends who have given her support and encouragement along the difficult road to publication. I've been there in the trenches throughout Natalie's writing and publication pursuits witnessing the power of friendship, seeing the ups and the downs, the ins and the outs, the HIGHS and the lows, the joys and the tears, the confidence and fears of not only Natalie but her writing friends. You are ALL AWESOME!!!

I've also spent many many hours with my grandkids so she could she could write, re-write and finish edits in peace and quiet. Let me just tell you that the TIME and the POLISHING that's required to write a book and get it to an actual book, the kind you actually hold in your hands is really really INTENSE!!! I never realized or understood the time, the commitment, and the effort that is required to be a published author! Shout out to AUTHORS!!! I LOVE READING so keep on WRITING!!!

So, with that said, I want to send my love and my best wishes and all my bottled up happiness out to my daughter, Natalie!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

You worked HARD for IT and YOU NEVER gave UP!!!

I'm so VERY PROUD of YOU!!!

Magnetic Button Ring Winners

2011-07-05T11:42:00.005-06:00

I'm sorry it's taken me a couple days to pick the winners of the Magnetic Button Ring Giveaway but, I have some really great excuses!

Excuse #1

It's been a crazy few days with our Air Conditioning Unit breaking down on SUNDAY which happened to be the HOTTEST day of the year and a 3 day weekend, YIKES! I am one CRANKY mama when I'm hot. My oldest daughter tweeted. . . "The fastest way to get my family to turn on each other is to break the air conditioning. We all get angry when it's hot." It was difficult at Sunday dinner to not get on each other's nerves. The grandkids were cranky, too! It was over 80 degrees in my house (but it felt like 95) and I can barely tolerate 73 degrees. lol. I mostly hid in my basement during the day and had two fans in my room going at night to keep me cool. Of course, I had to wear earplugs to reduce the noise enough so I could fall asleep.

Excuse #2

Last minute guest arriving from California for EFY at BYU. We picked him up at the airport after dinner. It was wonderful turning on the COLD air in the car as we drove up to SLC.

Excuse #3

Yesterday, was a holiday and filled to the BRIM with family activities and fireworks. Plus I was extra HOT and CRANKY, still!

Excuse #4

This morning while my husband was finishing a conference call our internet, phone, and cable services went down for over 3 hours and it's only in the last 15 minutes that I've been able to get online and pick the winners. The temp in my house was 79 degrees and as of 11am the repairman has come and gone leaving a $500 bill for fixing the air-conditioning. Yikes again!!! Totally worth it, though!!!

SOOOO, I finally was able to pick 2 winners. One winner from Stash Manicure and One winner from my blog. Congratulations to the winners of the Magnetic Button Rings!

Stash Manicure Winner

Jen W. (no blog)

Bitty Bits Winner

Candice from Sunshine, Handmade

Thanks Everyone for your sweet comments and Thanks again to Madame Samm for inviting me to post on Stash Manicure. Hopefully, I will be back again soon with another tutorial. I better get to work. . .

Have a great day and go sew something fun!!!

Magnetic Button Ring Tutorial

2011-06-29T00:31:00.005-06:00

I was recently invited by Madame Samm to do a guest post at Stash Manicure. So, I decided it was time to make another tutorial for everyone. Make sure to visit Stash Manicure to see the tutorial, learn how to make a Magnetic Button Ring, and to leave a comment because I will be picking a winner from those who leave a comment @ Stash Manicure. I'm also going to pick a second winner from those that leave a comment here on my blog.

The PRIZE will be ONE Magnetic Button Ring (for each blogs winner) You may pick either red or black.

You will have until Midnight on Saturday, July 2nd to leave your comments.

Update Information:
Several people have asked where to buy the products. I want to remind you to click on the links that I've provided in the tutorial and it will take you to i-Tops Website where you can click on the STORE LOCATOR button that will take you to a map. Then Click on the STATE that you live in and it will take you to a list of places in your STATE that sell the i-Top products. Also I did a search on google and here are a few other links where to can buy the product onlineHERE and HERE. You will also want to watch the Imaginesce video HERE.

You will also see that there are videos on the IMAGINESCE (i-Top) website. Also, one other thing- When I taught how to use their products at a quilt retreat my local quilt shop contacted Imaginesce directly (maker of i-top products) and purchased them at wholesale for the retreat.

The Winner is. . .

2011-06-26T20:29:00.003-06:00

First off I want to thank everyone who entered, left comments here and on Annie's blog. I especially want to thank everyone for listening to the podcast. I was a bit nervous about how it would turn out but I was delighted. You know how it is to listen to your own voice. lol. Anyway, I enjoyed meeting Annie and doing the interview was a whole lot of fun.

I also want to welcome the 29 new followers who pushed the FOLLOW button. I can't promise a daily or even a weekly post but when I do post I try to make it a good one. Keep your eyes open for a fun tutorial coming this week. I think you will enjoy it!

So. . . Now on to the Winner!!!

CONGRATS. . . to comment #68 from LEE!

I will be sending you the "Fresh Fabric Treats" Book in the mail.

Just send me your mailing address and I'll get that in the mail this week.

Lee left four comments on my blog...

I love your tote bag! cool book! thanks!
I follow your blog.
I left a comment over on Annies blog! thank you!
I downloaded the podcast and I'm listening now! thank you!

Book Giveaways & a Podcast

2011-06-20T09:48:00.028-06:00

Hello Everyone!

How are you all doing? I hope your summer is going well!

It's been a very busy summer thus far for me with lots of Quilting, Cleaning, Organizing, and Playing. I recently got back on Friday from Church Girl's Camp and have spent the weekend recovering. I'm not quite as limber as I used to be. lol.

Well, It's time for a

Fresh Fabric Treat Book Giveaway and Podcast.

Here are a few pictures I took of the Fresh Fabric Treat Book that was displayed at the C&T Publishing Booth at Quilt Market. It was my first look at the book and it was so fun to finally see it for REALS!!!

About the Book Signing:

To celebrate the debut of Fresh Fabric treats we had a book signing event on Sunday afternoon on the last day of Quilt Market where Stash Books gave away 3 1/2 boxes full of books. It was really fun gathering with a few of the Moda Bake Shop Designers who were able to make the trip to Quilt Market in Salt Lake City this year. Here we are posing for a few pictures while laughing and entertaining the crowd that gathered to get a free signed copy for their stores.

Here's the actual book I'm giving away that I had signed by a few of the designers. I'm sorry that I couldn't get more of the designers to sign it but, not everyone was there at market and some had to leave early before the book signing on Sunday.

Here's a peek at my 1st project in the book.

Here's a look at my 2nd project.

About Podcast #207:

I had the pleasure of meeting Annie Smith from Annie's Quilting Stash at Quilt Market.

Here's how it all happened. I was sitting in the dining area after the book signing just enjoying a Ham and Swiss Cheese Panini with my friend Lori Holt. We were talking about the last few days of quilt market and she was telling me that she was just relaxing and waiting for her next interview with Annie Smith. I thought that was really exciting for Lori to be doing an interview.

It wasn't long before Annie joined our little group that had gathered in the dining area. It was so fun to meet her and to talk with her. One thing led to another and before I knew it she was inviting me to talk with her after Lori and do an interview to promote the new book I'm in called "Fresh Fabric Treats" (make sure to check with your local quilt shoppes to purchase the book).

Annie is delightful! She's a wonderful quilter, appliquer, and designer along with being an amazing blogger and podcaster. You will definitely want to visit her blog often. Her most recent podcast is an interview she did with my friend Lori Holt. It's podcast #206.

The podcast about me and the book is #207. You can link to it here.

Go Check it out!

About the Projects:

I took a few pictures of my projects before packing them up in a box and shipping them off to the publishers for almost a years time. I just got them back a few months before Quilt Market.

I made the "Pack N' Go Tote" with the Quilter in mind. Fill it up with your current projects and take it with you on a road trip or with you to your quilt classes, quilt retreats, or even your monthly quilt meetings.

The "Pack N' Go Tote" holds the following items:

Darice 8.5" x 11" Protect-N-Store Box (2 boxes fit inside the tote to hold your projects)
Clover Mini Iron and separate iron case (fits inside the tote)
Omnigrid 6" x 12" acrylic ruler (fits in larger outside pockets)
Omnigrid 8 .75" x 11 .75" Foldaway Portable Cutting & Pressing (fits in larger outside pockets)
Any Quilt Books, Patters, and/or Notebooks (fits in larger outside pockets)
Make Life Sewing Kit from FFT book (fits in smaller outside pockets)
Sewing Scissors (fits in smaller outside pockets)
Rotary Cutter (fits in smaller outside pockets)

View of Smaller outside pocket with sewing kit in pocket.

View of 8.75" x 11.75" Omnigrid Foldaway

Portable Cutting & Pressing Mat seen in outside pocket

Close-up of Make Life Sewing Kit

About the FFT Giveaway:

One book will be given away here on My Blog
Another book will be given away on Annie's Blog, click here
I will pick the winner using Random Number Generator.

Here's what you need to do to enter the Giveaway:

Leave me a comment on my blog for one entry
Be or Become a follower on my blog then tell me in a separate comment for another entry
Visit Annie's Blog and then tell me in a separate comment for another entry
Listen to the Podcast #207 and then tell me in a separate comment for another entry

Giveaway Deadline:

Giveaway will end on Saturday, June 25th at midnight.
The winner will be announced on Sunday, June 26th (sometime during the day).

Other Book Buzz and Links:

Behind the Scenes Photo Shoot Post on Stash Books

FFT Book Signing Link at Moda Bake Shop

Pictures from Book Signing at Pine Needles on Natalia's Blog (she's also in the FFT Book)

Check out the Sewing Kit my Friend Vickie E. made on her Blog (she's also in the FFT Book)

Fresh Fabric Treats Book Signings

2011-05-29T15:47:00.011-06:00

Come Celebrate the Release of the Long Awaited

Moda Bake Shop Book called:

3 of the 15 Designers have joined with 3 of our Favorite Quilt Shops

on Saturday, June 4th for a "FFT" Book Signing Party.

Natalia Bonner

Piece N' Quilt

Vanessa Christenson

V & Co.

Kim Walus

Bitty Bits & Pieces

•••••••••

Come & Enjoy

• Store Discounts

• Giveaways

• Refreshments

• Lots of Laughter

• MBS Trunk Show

• Plus you'll see 3 of the projects from the book

•••••••••

We will be at the following 3 locations

on Saturday, June 4th

Material Girls: 10am to 11:30am

645 Towne Center Dr # 4
South Jordan, UT 84095-8603

Pine Needles: 12:30 to 2pm

1100 West 7800 South
West Jordan, UT 84088-3500

American Quilting: 3pm to 5pm

424 West 800 North
Orem, UT 84057-3728

•••••••••

SEE YOU THERE!!

Sew Cherry Designer

2011-05-20T07:40:00.005-06:00

My Friend, Lori Holt had her BIG debut at Quilt Market and it was so fun to visit her at her SPOT in the Riley Blake Booth. I just had to take pictures to show you how great it turned out. I think I need a red and white kitchen to go with all of the darling quilts. You will have to go to her blog to get a closer look at some of her quilts that she's recently post about. I loved her Cake Walk Quilt, Her Dresden Quilt (I'm not sure what she named it), and her Vintage Dishes Quilt. Look for her fabric and patterns in your local quilt shops. If you need it fast I know you can order her fabric right now at The Fat Quarter Shop.

You are going to love Lori's 1 yard Apron Pattern. It is one pattern with 8 different varieties. They were all so cute I could hardly decide on a favorite but, I love her red gingham apron with the blue pockets (see 2nd apron from the left on the bottom row). I'm sure you'll be able to see them soon on Lori's Blog. You'll just have to become a follower of her blog and then you'll get a first hand look at them.

I also loved the pillow with the Hexie's in done in the traditional grandmother's flower garden design. The pattern is called "SEW HEXIE" Go check out Lori's BLOG POST today and read more about this great pattern.

Have fun sewing and creating with "SEW CHERRY"

Moda Schoolhouse

2011-05-16T06:45:00.008-06:00

I have to tell you that I was a little bit nervous driving up to Salt Lake City Thursday morning for Moda's Schoolhouse. I worried about getting delayed in the road construction on SR92 so I took a detour and then I worried about getting stuck in traffic. I had given myself plenty of time but still felt a little apprehensive. I've never shared my work with such a large group of people that I mostly didn't know before and . . .

. . . it was a full house, too!

Here we are on the sidelines waiting for our turn to present.

Do we look a little nervous?

I know I was!

This is Natalia of "Piece N' Quilt" showing us her beautiful Picnic Quilt.

You will just love this project!

Darling Vanessa Christensen of "V & CO." is so cute! Her smile warms the room! Her project is bright and happy and just perfect for any little girl's room. You could even put the letters of their name on a few of the banner flags or a special message like "I LOVE YOU!"

My project is a practical tote for the Quilter who is on the go! It holds practically everything that you would need for a day away with your quilting friends (I will talk more about the details in another post).

I've always wanted to make a string quilt and this one by Lissa Alexander is just beautiful!! Lissa is one busy and very talented lady. It was such a pleasure to meet her. THANKS Lissa for all of your hard work and inspiration in making this book come to life and many many THANKS go to Susan Woods and the staff at C&T Publishing who were so wonderful to work with. The book is spectacular and I love every bit of it.

Another picture of Lissa Alexander (Director of Marketing for Moda) picking the winning names out of the container. Several books and pre-cuts were given away to those in attendance.

Happy Book Winner!

Another Happy Book Winner!

Picture of one of the winners (the person holding the book) from the drawing. She wanted a picture with some of the designers that were there at the Moda Schoolhouse.

L to R: Lissa Alexander, Natalia Bonner, Winner, Kim Walus, Vanessa Christenson, and the Sweetwater Gals (Sweetwater blog).

Other Market News from Today:

Sherri from "A Quilting Life" did a wonderful post today. You will want to run over and see the great pictures she took at Quilt Market.

Amy Smart from "Diary of a Quilter" is another must read. I've known Amy for a long time and if you got a chance to meet her at market you will definitely agree with me. What a great time we all had at the Blogger's Quilt Market Meet-Up on Saturday Night. Thanks Amy, Nanette and Calli

Amber from "A Little Bit Biased" also did a great market post today. You will love her patterns and all of her pictures. This was her first year at Market like most in my circle of friends.

Crazy Old Ladies is another one of my favorite blogs and I didn't realize she had a fabric line coming out at Quilt Market until I recently caught up on some of my blog reading after having seen her booth at Market. You will love her inspirational story on how she came up with her new fabric line and her recent pictures and post on Market are great!

First Look at Market

2011-05-15T08:46:00.003-06:00

This was my first LOOK at Market all in one view!! It's amazing and overwhelming at the same time. The room is filled with excitement and creativity. What a FUN place to be for 4 days.

Here's a little closer look at how far it spreads across the room.

It's my understanding that there were over 2900 vendors represented at 2011 Spring Market. We barely made a dent in what we wanted to see on the first day. Since I had an exhibitor pass through Moda I could watch the set up and it was amazing to see how quickly it all came together. There were pallets and people everywhere. Like little worker bees in the hive. Lots and lots of activity.

Keep checking back.

I have more pictures to come.

Off to Market I Go

2011-05-09T16:59:00.008-06:00

I know many of you have had the Quilt Market Experience before but, for me, this is my first and I'm super excited to be going. You will want to click on the Market Button on my side bar that Monica of Happy Zombie made for Pam Kitty Morning so that you can keep up with the happenings at Quilt Market.

Many of you know that I've been doing design work for Moda's Bake Shop for the last 2 years and over a year ago I was asked to participate in Moda's first Bake Shop Book for Stash Books by C&T Publishing. That was an awesome experience making a couple projects for the book. Even I haven't seen all of the projects in the book so I am looking forward to seeing the book in print.

For those that will be at Quilt Market on Thursday, I just wanted to let you know that I will be debuting my project in the book along with some of the other Chef's at Moda's Schoolhouse on Thursday, May 12th in Room 255B, it starts at 11:30am and ends at 12:00 Noon. All the CHEFS in the book that are able to come will be there. Come join in the fun as "Fresh Fabric Treats" is introduced to the world.

Can you guess which project is mine?

Check back soon for the "BIG REVEAL" and a GIVEAWAY!

I also have a little gift for the first 10 people that find me at Quilt Market and tell me the CODE WORD. Since my family is from New Zealand I thought I would make the Code word a New Zealand Greeting. Here's the Code Word "Kia Ora" (pronounced "kee-or-a").

Simply find me and say "Kia Ora" Yes! It's that simple. I'm hoping to run into many of you. I won't be tied to a booth so, I will be roaming about the room and visiting with friends that have their own booths. Now, if you need any help or if you need someone to stand in for you so you can take a break to use the restroom or get a bite to eat just let me know and I'll try to help.

Here's the online definition of Kia Ora:

interjection (N.Z.) hello, hi (informal), greetings, gidday or g'day (Austral. & N.Z.), how do you do?, good morning, good evening, good afternoon, welcome a postcard bearing the caption `Kia-Ora: Greetings from Maoriland'

also: sentence substitute NZ greetings! good luck! [Maori, literally BE WELL!]

I will also be at the Quilt Blogger's Meet-Up on Saturday Night, May 14th at the Blue Lemon. I hope you have your ticket and don't forget to bring it with you.

I will also be at two other functions on Thursday Night and Friday Night.

See YOU ALL THERE!!!

Trivet Tutorial

2011-05-02T15:03:00.050-06:00

My friend Janet Platt is very creative and designed the popular Quick Points Ruler. The most recent ruler that she's designed is the Scallop Ruler (see picture below). If you are going to the local HMQS Show in Utah on May 5-7, 2011 you will be able to purchase the rulers at the show and even watch a demonstration. Go to the HMQS link to print a coupon. Janet and her RULERS will also be at the International Spring Quilt Market May 13-15, 2011 at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah.

It wasn't too long ago that she asked me to design a project for a kitchen trivet using the leftover mylar from making the Scallop Pushers (see picture below). That started my mind going and I told her I would take on the challenge. It was fun designing the kitchen trivet and it can also be a circular placemat to place on your side table or under a plate.

Scalloped Trivet Tutorial

Finished Size: 15" diameter Circle

Supplies:

1" Scallop Ruler-S1
1" Scallop Pusher-P1
12 .5" x 6.5" Creative Grid Ruler
One 4" x 4" Fabric Square for Center Square
Two 4" x 4" Fabric Squares for next SQS
Two 6.5" x 6.5" Fabric Squares for next SQS
Two Fabric strips measuring 3.5" x 7.5" for border on SQS block
Two Fabric strips measuring 3.5" x 13.5" for border on SQS block
Two pieces of Fabric measuring 8.5" x 9.25" for pocket on back of trivet
One piece of Fabric measuring 4" x WOF for scallop
One piece of Contrasting Fabric measuring 4" x 40-44" for scallop
Insul-Bright Batting measuring 14" x 14"
Trivet Backing Fabric measuring 14" x 14"
Teflon Insert for Trivet available through www.quickpointsruler.com
Freezer Paper

SQS= Square in a Square

WOF= Width of Fabric

Instructions:

Step One:

Making the Scallop

Completely read the instructions before using the Scallop Ruler.

Use the two 4” x WOF strips to make the scalloped edge for the trivet.

Lay the ruler on the wrong side of the fabric and trace around the ruler and in all of the holes.

Slide the ruler across the fabric to finish marking the strip.

Reduce your stitch length to a shorter stitch (2.0) then sew 1/4 inch in from the marked line. Stop at the dot keeping needle in down position, then pivot the fabric, take one stitch, pivot again and continue sewing the scallops.

Repeat process for each scallop.

Clip the curves and into the deep valleys. You could also use Pinking Shears.

To open the scallop for turning you will need to carefully cut down the center of one side of the scallop being careful not to cut the fabric underneath. I folded the scallop then gave it a bit of steam so that I could cut along the pressed fold (see below).

Press the scallops using the scallop pusher. The pusher is a very useful tool and will decrease your pressing time. Set Scallop aside for later.

Step Two:

Making the Square in a Square Block for Trivet

Cut fabric according to the supply list above. This is a picture of what you will need to make the Square in a Square Block (SQS).

Take your 4" x 4" center square and fold it in half then pinch the folds. Repeat for opposite side of square.

Take the (2) 4" x 4" squares for the SQS and cut them diagonally from the bottom right corner up to the top left corner. You will now have 4 triangles. Now take the two corners along the diagonally cut line and bring them together to form a fold then pinch the fold. This is a quick and easy way to match the center of the triangles to the center of the squares.

Now take two of the triangles and match the pinched centers with the center marks on the two opposite sides of the center square.

Using a 1/4" seam allowance sew the triangle on one side of the square and then the opposite side. Press seams away from center squares. Repeat process for the two remaining sides of the square.

Take the creative grid ruler and match the 45 degree markings on the ruler and match it to one of the 4 corners of the square. The ruler is set up to leave a 1/4" seam allowance beyond the squares corner point. Trim the excess fabric. Repeat this process for the remaining 3 corners of the SQS Block.

The Square in a Square Block should now measure 5.5" x 5.5" after trimming the excess.

Now take the (2) 6.5" x 6.5" squares for the next SQS and cut them diagonally from the bottom right corner up to the top left corner. You will now have 4 triangles. Take the two corners of the triangle (along the diagonally cut line) then bring them together to form a fold then pinch the fold.

Now take two of these triangles and match the pinched centers with the corners of the center squares. Using a 1/4" seam allowance sew the triangle on one side of the square and then the opposite side. Press seams away from center squares. Repeat process for the two remaining sides of the square.

Take the creative grid ruler and lay the 45 degree markings on the ruler and match it to one of the 4 corners of the square. The ruler is set up to leave a 1/4" seam allowance beyond the squares corner point. Trim the excess fabric. Repeat this process for the remaining 3 corners of the SQS Block.

The Square in a Square Block should now measure 7.5" x 7.5" after trimming excess.

Sew on the 3.5" x 7.5" strips to each side of SQS. Press seams outward.

Sew on the 3.5" x 13.5" strips to the remaining sides of SQS. Press seams outward. Your block is now ready to cut out and quilt. Set aside. Your block is now ready to cut into a circle.

Pull out freezer paper and draw a circle using an 11.75" diameter circle (I used one of my dinner plates but, know that it’s NOT the plate you see in the pictures). Cut out the freezer paper circle and fold it in half twice. Now iron it to the right side of SQS block making sure the creased lines in the freezer paper cross over the four corners of the SQS block.

The circle should now be evenly centered in the block.

Cut off the fabric that remains outside of the freezer paper circle.

Cut out one more fabric circle for trivet backing fabric and one more circle out of the batting.

Step Three:

Quilting the SQS Trivet Top

Now place the finished Trivet on top of the batting. Pin in place and quilt as desired. I stitched in the ditch and sewed circles around the outside edge of trivet. I finished sewing four diagonal lines across the SQS block creating x’s.

Below is a view of the quilting on the back.

Step Four:

Making the Pocket for Trivet Back

For the (optional) pocket on the back of the trivet, take two pieces of fabric measuring 8.5" x 9.25" with right sides together place on top of the Insul-Bright batting. Pin.

Sew around all 4 sides leaving a 2” opening for turning the pocket right side out. Clip corners, turn, and press.

Take the pocket you just finished and center it in the middle of the fabric circle being used for the back of the trivet. Sew a seam close to the edge of 3 sides of the pocket making sure the 2” opening is sewn closed as you sew the three sides. Set Aside.

The picture shows the finished product with the heat resistant Teflon that slips into the pocket for added protection. Trim the Teflon to fit the pocket.

Step Five:
Finishing the Scalloped Trivet

Before sandwiching all of the layers you will need to take the finished scallop and sew a basting stitch along the bottom folded edge of the scallop.

Pull the thread to gather the scallop just enough to ease it around the outside edge of the trivet. Adjust the scallop then pin in place.

Sew the scallop in place. Then sandwich the two circles with right sides together. Pin. Make sure to use a walking foot on your sewing machine to sew the layers together. Make sure to leave a 2-3” opening for turning the trivet.

Clip curves around the circle starting and ending at the opening. Turn Trivet right side out. Press and sew opening closed.

Here's a video showing you how to use the Scallop Ruler.

Fluffy Stuffy Bunnies

2011-04-25T23:12:00.009-06:00

Spring has been SLOWLY making it's way to Utah with varied kinds of weather from Snow to Rain to Sunshine and tonight we even had some Thunder! Hilarious, I know! I think we are definitely READY for some SUNNIER DAYS!

Anyway, the bunnies have been hippity hopping around the house and have been begging for a photo shoot. So, without further ado. . .

Here are a few of the bunnies I've been making for Springtime. . .

If you've fallen in love with the Fluffy Stuffy BUNNIES like I did. . . you can find the FREE Bunny pattern HERE and the FREE Bunny Dress Pattern HERE! They are so cute you will want to leave them out all year long.

This wonderful tutorial was created by the FAMOUS Jennie B. Harris of ALLSORTS. She is a very talented designer and artist with many credits to her name. Also, she recently designed an interactive children's book that you can download to your iPad. The information can be found on her blog HERE! You can also go to Apple's APP store and download the book. It's called "Bunnyfur's Easter Eggs" Go HERE to download it.

FYI: Just in case you're wondering. Yes. I did change the pattern slightly by adding bias binding to the neckline of the dress and left the top edges of the dress open for turning and then the raw edges are sewn into the binding.

I made the flower that you see clipped on the Bunny's ear using Felt and one of my favorite flower dies that I cut out using my Sizzix Die Cut Machine. I also made the covered buttons that screw onto a hair clip.

I almost forgot to tell you that I got the cute little plastic pots/cups at BIG LOTS for a $1.00 a piece. They looked like they could pass for little baskets to hold my Bunnies in and they came in lots of pretty colors. I also put candy in the eggs and wrapped the baskets in clear cellophane wrap that I tied at the top with a pretty bow.

2011 Pin Cushion Exchange

2011-04-02T14:02:00.003-06:00

This year I missed out on the pin cushion exchange during the quilt retreat but I snuck into the exchange with a few other ladies to watch the fun. I was only able to catch a few pictures of the pin cushions but I think you will enjoy seeing them.

Here the ladies are ready to play the game.

This is a darling wool pin cushion on a wristband.

I love this toadstool pincushion.

This cupcake pin cushion looks delicious.

This pincushion is done on a wooden spool. Very clever!

Love the Snowman!

Banner Class

2011-03-30T14:40:00.001-06:00

For this years quilt retreat I had a really nice quilt in mind but a few months ago Amy asked me to teach the Hugs & Kisses Banner from my most recent tutorial on Moda Bake Shop. So, I agreed.

I had 6 people sign up for my class and during the retreat I helped 3 other gals cut wool letters and scalloped circles so they could make them later. It was so fun to see what banners my students decided to make and what fabric they used to make them.

Shelly made the "SPRINGTIME" Banner, Kimberly made the "BLESSINGS" Banner, Amy and Mindy made "BIRTHDAY" Banners, and Mindy also made two more Banners with her daughters names on them. The Banners were all so CUTE!!!

I spent most of the morning finishing up the little gifts that I made for my students and setting up the classroom. I finished just in time for lunch. This is a picture of what I set out for each student. It consisted of a bag of treats, a pincushion ring I made for them, and a little "What-Not" Bag that I almost made for them. I had it all prepared so all they had to do was sew one part. I promise to show you the gifties once I take pictures of them.

Here are some of the banners I displayed.

Here's the banner I made for my sewing room.

The banner says the name of my blog.

b i t t y b i t s & p i e c e s

I was pretty distracted during the retreat and didn't get pictures of the other banners even though I had every intention of doing so, but here's Shelley's "Spring Time" Banner. All the banners turned out really nice and I loved spending time with all of the ladies in my class. It's always a highlight of my time spent during the retreats. I'm looking forward to next year and should probably start thinking of something new to teach that everyone might like to make.

I'm interested. . .

If you had a CHOICE. . .

What would you CHOOSE to MAKE at a Quilt Retreat?

Big Quilt?
Little Quilt?
Tablerunner?
Bag or Purse?
Sewing Related Item?

Any thoughts or suggestions would be great! Thanks!!!

I'm Home!

2011-03-29T16:48:00.006-06:00

Hi Everyone! I'm home from my quilt retreat and back to reality. I had a GREAT time with all of my wonderful quilting friends and wish that the retreat had lasted a few days longer. For some quilters this was their 1st year and for others this was their 4th year which is exactly how long Amy's been doing her Quilt Retreats. For me, this was my 3rd year.

Kayla and I arrived at Zermatt around 8:30am Wednesday morning and immediately started hauling our stuff into the BIG Conference Room. It was really really nice and all 80+ of us fit in the space with room to spare. We even had two good size classrooms set up at both ends of the Conference Center. The chandeliers and florescent lights provided wonderful lighting at night and the large ceiling to floor windows provided the best natural light during the day.

On Monday evening a few of us ate at the Resort's Restaurant called Schneitter's. It was very pricey but very good. The steak was well worth the cost and I enjoyed every morsel of the meal.

Another favorite stop was the Resort's Bakery. Amy gave everyone a daily voucher to use at the bakery. I think the favorite treat was Gelato. Every day they had a few new flavors to try. My favorites were the Passion Fruit and Raspberry Gelato's. I also tried the Cream Puffs and thought I had died and gone to dessert heaven. The Cream Puffs were AMAZING! I brought home a few new projects and a few extra pounds. lol. I'm so glad the bakery is NOT accessible or I might have to make a few extra visits!

Retreating

2011-03-23T01:09:00.005-06:00

I took 3 days off work just so I could run off to my favorite American Quilting Quilt Retreat located this year at Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah for some much needed rest and I hope to get a lot of sewing accomplished in between the resting. I'm bringing just one major project and a few little projects to keep me busy when I get tired of the big project and the little projects will help make me feel like a finisher! lol. I also brought along a very good book!!!

I think I will have to sit and relax there in the lobby. You might find me with my very good book right on that overstuffed chair by the fire.

On Thursday, I will be teaching my Hugs & Kisses Banner that I did for Moda Bake Shop. It's a custom class where you can come and make a banner for any holiday, any event, or any child's name, etc. I'm really looking forward to seeing what each person decided to do and what fabric they picked.

I'm bringing my camera so, I will take lots of pictures and share some of them with you when I get back. Have a great week and we will blog with you again soon.

Hugs, Kim

Leprechaun Traps

2011-03-17T18:42:00.007-06:00

Did you miss me? I missed me too. lol. I will have to explain later but right now I want to say Happy St. Patrick's Day and share with you a few pictures I took today at school. The 1st graders have been working at home on their Leprechaun traps and yesterday they all brought them to school to see if they could catch a few of them during the night last night. They all came to school really excited to see if any of them had caught a Leprechaun. Some of the kids thought they had seen glimpses of Leprechauns during the week and a few kids even found a few notes in the classroom from the Leprechaun. It's been fun watching their excitement grow as we learned about Leprechauns these past couple weeks.

This first trap was made by the student I shadow. He told me that the Leprechaun climbed up the ladder to propose to the girl Leprechaun and when he stepped off the ladder he would fall into the trap. If you see the open area on top of the box, that's the viewing area where you can look in and see the Leprechaun. I thought it was a very clever trap and it made me smile and giggle as he told me how his trap worked. Very Cute!!

When the Leprechaun climbs up the ladder and stops off to get the gold he falls through the slit in the top of the hat. The slit is camouflaged by the gold coins.

I love how this one is decorated with a double rainbow and it's own little pot of gold that hides a trap door that drops him into the fake hillside below the pot.

The Leprechaun climbs the ladder even though there are warning signs telling him to stay off the ladder. lol. Of course, he falls in when he steps off the ladder.

Another trap door. Watch out!!!

This trap has a door that triggers shut when the Leprechaun steps over the threshold.

The lid of this trap falls on the Leprechaun and traps him inside the box.

When the Leprechaun reaches for the gold dangling from the string he falls into the pit. The other trap is camouflaged by glitter and gold strewn about the VERY sticky paper and traps the Leprechaun when he makes his move toward the pot of gold.

I love the instructions on the sign that says. . .

"Go up the ladder and you will see gold. Trust me. I NEVER LIE!!! lol.

Here is a sampling of the Green Treats that each of the kids brought to the St. Patrick's Day Celebration. Lots of sugar, some grapes, and there was even broccoli, although I don't see it on this particular plate, hehehe. I thought the apple juice was a great idea, too!!

I hope you enjoyed our little tribute to St. Patrick's Day.

What is Danish Dessert?

2011-02-03T18:15:00.005-07:00

During the recent Progressive Dinner at my house many of you asked me. . .

"What is Danish Dessert?" and "Where can I find it?"

Here's the Answer. . .

Danish Dessert is a powder that comes in a box that you mix with water and heat on the stove top. It turns into a gel like substance and is exactly like the strawberry pie filling you would get in a strawberry pie from the grocery store or a restaurant like "Marie Callendar's Restaurant" or "Village Inn"

Here's Where You Can Find It. . .

You can usually find it in the gelatin (JELLO) section in your local grocery store. I did a search for danish dessert on the internet for those that can't find it locally and I found a set of 12 boxes of Danish Dessert available for purchase on AMAZON.

Junket has their own website and they even have a section for recipes that you can download.

Below you will see a few other links to places you can purchase Danish Dessert online. . .

Here's the LINK for the Strawberry Trifle Recipe just in case you didn't remember to pick one up before you left the party. ENJOY!!!

noreply-comment@blogger.com tutorial

2011-01-29T17:17:00.006-07:00

Have you ever wondered why bloggers don't reply to your comments. Well, there is a simple reason why bloggers don't reply to your comments and that's because they CAN'T! Here is the solution to fixing the problem. . .

Not too long ago my friend Jodi from Pleasant Home did a wonderful tutorial on being a noreply-comment@blogger.com. If you have a minute go check your blogger account to see if you have it set as NO REPLY.

The reason I'm mentioning this is because with over 1200+ comments on the Moda Progressive Dinner Giveaway I had nearly half of the comments (595 comments) that were set as noreply-comment@blogger. I'm not sure how many of the 595 no reply comments will read this post but if even a small portion read this it will help the blogging community continue to function as it could and should. It's a really simple fix and then you'll be able to receive a reply in response to any of your comments or questions.

It's so frustrating to be unable to respond to a question or comment from your readers and it will make me so happy if you check out Jodi's Tutorial. Thanks!

My Dinner Winner

2011-01-28T16:42:00.004-07:00

I've been really busy reading emails and trying to reply to the 1200+ comments in my inbox. I'm really quite overwhelmed with the amount of comments I've received. Thank YOU with all my heart!

I've managed to read all of the wonderful comments in between work, family, and a big science project that was due yesterday (Yes, I survived, thank you for asking) but, I've had a hard time replying to sooo many comments. I hope you will forgive me for not responding to everyone. Just know that I really appreciate your time and it was fun having you stop by my home for dinner.

Now on to the winner. . .

Congratulations go to . . . The Happy Bluebird

my happy bluebird said...

Whew, I've been running around this morning trying to catch up on the commenting for previous designers. Thank you for inviting me in and the delicious dessert! You and your home are lovely... Gotta go -- I'm off to Polka Dot Chair!

The winner was in the first 100 comments.

So, this time the EARLY bird got the worm.

**giggles**

Sorry, I just couldn't resist the pun.

Welcome to Dinner

2011-01-22T07:00:00.005-07:00

Oh wait! I think I hear the Doorbell. . .

**Runs for door with excitement to see if guests are arriving**

(Yes. . . that's my Christmas tree you see. lol.)

Please. . . Come on in, it's terribly cold outside. . .

Look at all the SNOW we got a few weeks ago!!!

I'm just happy that you made it here safely!

Here, let me take your coat and I'll put it in my husband's office. Just a sec. Okay, I'm back.

I understand you had dinner at John and Monica's house last night. How are they doing? Well, I hope! Let's go in the family room now so, you can sit by the fire and get warm while we wait for more guests to arrive. . .

Would you like something to eat?

Yes? Oh, good. . .

I've baked up a yummy dessert for you.

You don't mind having dessert first, do you?

Excuse me, but. . . did you have a question? Oh yes, it's called Strawberry Trifle and it's one of my family's favorite desserts. I made several copies and left them HERE on the kitchen counter if you'd like one. Just remember to pick it up before you leave. Would you also like a glass of punch? Yes?

It's my favorite PARTY PUNCH and the recipe's so simple. . .

Just Mix: One 2-liter bottle of Cherry 7-Up and 1 Can of Pineapple Juice. Yep, that's it!

You can easily double, triple, or quadruple the recipe depending on the size of your gathering. Just pour what you need into a punch bowl and add ice. It goes really fast so you needn't worry about the ice melting and diluting the punch. You could even freeze another can of pineapple juice and toss in some cut up pineapple and fresh raspberries. Just put it in a bundt pan to make a "Frozen Raspberry Pineapple Ring" that you can toss in the punch bowl just as you're ready to serve it. I think I need another cup of punch. How about you?

How are you doing? Good. I'm happy to hear that. It sure has been nice getting to know you a little better. I know you like to sew and I was just wondering. . . Have you had a chance, yet, to make any of my projects from Moda's Bake Shop? Oh, that's great! Which one is your favorite?

If you haven't seen my Moda Bake Shop Recipes you can link to them HERE.

Hey, look who's just arrived, it's one of our Special Guests. . .

**Stands up to Greet and Hug**

Let me introduce you to Melissa Mortenson from Polka Dot Chair. She's such a great person. You'll be friends in no time at all.

Did you know that she's one of the many wonderful Moda Bake Shop Chefs?

It just so happens that Melissa has designed several of my favorite projects. So when you have a minute make sure to check them out at the BAKE SHOP.

I sure hope you saved some room for more FOOD because we're headed on over to Melissa's Dinner Party at Polka Dot Chair. If any of you want to carpool I have enough seat belts for 7 people. Can any of you fit a few in your car?

Oh! I almost forgot! Before we leave. . . I want to THANK ALL OF YOU for coming to my home for dinner tonight. Hey, dessert is dinner. hehehe! lol. It's been so much FUN having you visit and share in the big CELEBRATION!!!

And one more thing. . . It's the GIVEAWAY!

Each Moda Bake Shop Chef is giving away ONE BOOK of "Fresh Fabric Treats" and ONE Moda Pre-Cut. Each Chef will choose the pre-cut they'll be giving away at their dinner party. I've chosen Fat Quarter Bundles. FQ Bundles are the best! I really love having extra fabric after making a project just so I can use the scraps in other quilts or craft projects.

Please Join me in THANK-ING Moda Bake Shop and Stash Books for generously providing the prizes for the Progressive Dinner Party. The Prize will be mailed once the books are available for shipping.

Now HERE are the RULES & DETAILS of the Progressive Dinner Giveaway!

Please leave ONE comment on THIS POST to be entered into the Giveaway.
The Giveaway will END on January 27th and my winner will be chosen sometime that day by a Random Integer Generator.
Please make sure I can CONTACT you. . . especially if you happen to win.
Moda's Progressive Dinner Grand Prize Drawing: Make sure to visit ALL of the CHEFS on the progressive dinner tour and leave a comment on their dinner post, you’ll then be entered in the drawing to win $200’s worth of Moda pre-cut fabrics along with a copy of the book "Fresh Fabric Treats"

. . . Remember Dinner will be Served . . .

. . . for 4 more Days at the Following Homes . . .

January 23rd Visit

Natalia at Piece N' Quilt

Vickie E. at Mid Ohio Knitter

on January 24th Visit

Rachel at P.S. i Quilt

Lissa at Moda Lissa

on January 25th Visit

Julie at Jaybird Quilts

The Gals at Sweetwater

on January 26th Visit

Angela Yosten

Jenny Garland

Late Night Reminder

2011-01-19T23:18:00.003-07:00

The Party has Begun.

Your First Stop. . .

Stash Books and Moda Bake Shop

Make sure you leave a comment every day at every blog.

Why?

Because. . .

There are lots of PRIZES involved

and you won't want to miss out on the chance to win!

Today visit: Stash Books and Moda Bakeshop

on January 20th visit Amanda Jean at Crazy Mom Quilts

on January 20th visit Roslyn at Bloom & Blossom

on January 20th visit Vanessa at V & Co.

on January 21st visit John at Quilt Dad

on January 21st visit Monica at Happy Zombie

on January 22nd visit Kim at bitty bits & pieces

on January 22nd visit Melissa at Polka Dot Chair

on January 23rd visit Natalia at Piece N' Quilt

on January 23rd visit Vickie E. at Mid Ohio Knitter

on January 24th visit Rachel at P.S. i Quilt

on January 24th visit Lissa at Moda Lissa

on January 25th visit Julie at Jaybird Quilts

on January 25th visit Sweetwater

on January 26th visit Angela Yosten

on January 26th visit Jenny Garland

I'll See You at Dinner on Saturday!

Valentine Banner

2011-01-15T09:37:00.010-07:00

Do any of you remember the Blessings Banner I made at Thanksgiving time?

Well, the pattern is finally done!!!

This is my newest Moda Bake Shop Tutorial that's now available at Moda's Bake Shop. Click on this LINK to go to the tutorial and then you'll need to go to the end of the post where you see the "printer friend download icon" then click on the icon to be taken to the file where you can then print the pattern and the free tutorial. Go Check it OUT today!!

NOTE: The Moda tutorial banner pattern is set at landscape and the printer is printing in portrait so the pattern is too small. I've advised the Moda Editor and it will be fixed soon. Thanks for your patience.

These are the other variations I've made so far. . .

Hugs & Kisses Valentine Banner

Spring Time Banner

I will be teaching this banner variation at American Quilting's

Spring Quilt Retreat in March 2011

Thanksgiving Blessings Banner

Christmas Banner

For those YOYO lover's out there I made and attached 12 yoyo's in between each flag on the Valentine and Spring Time banners. They could also be added to the Blessings and Christmas banners too but I haven't done that yet. I also added extra embellishments to the Valentine banner. I love all sorts of buttons and had to add lots of red buttons in between the yoyo's.

I'm sorry this is a small picture but you can get any assortment or color or kind of buttons online at a place called MORE Buttons. If you live locally, I recently found them (again) at my American Fork Roberts Arts & Crafts Store.

Here's the LINK right to the red buttons. You can get to the More Buttons store by clicking on the link above.

Invited to Dinner

2011-01-14T14:36:00.010-07:00

You are ALL Invited to Attend

Moda BAKESHOP's Progressive Dinner

Come Meet and Greet 15 Chefs from Moda Bake Shop

Trust me! You won't want to miss out on the FEAST!

so.....

Make sure to MARK your CALENDAR.

There will be LOTS of SURPRISES coming your way!!!

Date:

January 19-26, 2001

Time:

All Day Every Day

Place:

on January 19th visit: Stash Books

on January 19th visit Moda Bakeshop

on January 20th visit Amanda Jean at Crazy Mom Quilts

on January 20th visit Roslyn at Bloom & Blossom

on January 20th visit Vanessa at V & Co.

on January 21st visit John at Quilt Dad

on January 21st visit Monica at Happy Zombie

on January 22nd visit Kim at bitty bits & pieces

on January 22nd visit Melissa at Polka Dot Chair

on January 23rd visit Natalia at Piece N' Quilt

on January 23rd visit Vickie E. at Mid Ohio Knitter

on January 24th visit Rachel at P.S. i Quilt

on January 24th visit Lissa at Moda Lissa

on January 25th visit Julie at Jaybird Quilts

on January 25th visit Sweetwater

on January 26th visit Angela Yosten

on January 26th visit Jenny Garland

50th Birthday Giveaway Winners

2011-01-03T20:59:00.005-07:00

Congratulations!

To the following Winners of

my 50th Birthday & Moda Giveaway!!!

#1 Robin from Quilty as Charged

#2 Sherri from A Quilting Life

#3 Leah from Quilted Delights

#4 Mimi from Q is for Quilt

#5 Doina from Doina Quilt

#6 Jackie from Jackie's Stitches

I've sent emails to all of the winners. Please respond with your mailing address and I will get the prizes in the mail this week. Thanks to everyone who left a comment here on my blog and at Moda Bake Shop.

Handmade by Me

2011-01-02T09:41:00.011-07:00

Several bloggers have been searching on the internet for a bag called "Handmade by Me" and I thought it was really cute that you thought there was a pattern "Handmade by Me". . . I simply used that wording to say that instead of buying the sewing bags already MADE by someone else I meant that I had actually Handmade the bags for my friends and one for the giveaway using my own two little hands . I hope that makes a shred of sense. lol.

Anyway, this is the pattern I used and then I changed it to suit my needs. You can see the flying geese bag in the lower right hand corner of the picture below.

Click HERE to buy the pattern.

I also made the flying geese pinwheel bag but it was a bit big for me and I didn't like how the bottom pinwheel wrapped around to the bottom seam.

I'm just picky that way and hated losing part of the flying geese to the bottom of the bag.

It's a darling pattern and I do love it or I wouldn't have bought it. I especially love that cute sewing machine, too!!!

Here's the basics on how I changed the pattern. . .

(I'm sorry there are only a couple pictures but hopefully that helps)

I only made 4 flying geese for the front and omitted the 4 flying geese for the back.
I sewed a 9 1/2" square to the bottom of the 4 flying geese.
I cut out a 9 1/2" x 14" piece of batting and put it on the backside of bag.
I quilted it following the lines of the seams and a 1" grid on the black polka dot.
I cut out a 9 1/2" x 14" piece of fabric for the bag lining.
I added fabric ends to each side of the 9" zipper to make the zipper smaller.
I attached the zipper.
I turned it right sides in making sure the zipper was unzipped for turning later.
I sewed up both sides of the bag.
I opened the corners by matching the side seam and the bottom and then measuring up 1" from the corner tip and then sewed across the seam.
Then I turned it right side out and pressed it.

Mixed Bag

2011-01-01T20:49:00.003-07:00

This holiday has been a mixed bag of birthdays, anniversaries, shopping, cooking, cleaning, taking care of grandkids, movies, wedding receptions, a big dental procedure on me, and several doctor visits for my husband. I'm exhausted and have to apologize for my inability to respond to all of your wonderful comments. The response to my giveaway has been amazing and I want you all to know that I've read every single comment in between all of the chaos in my life plus my carpal tunnel has been acting up quite a bit.

I really appreciate all of the wonderful birthday greetings and comments you left on my blog and at Moda's Bake Shop. It's brightened each day as I read your comments. Thank you too, to all of my new followers and I hope you've enjoyed your time here and will stop back in from time to time.

I had every intention of picking a winner today but alas, it hasn't happened and I'm going to fall in to bed after I publish this post. I've been at the insta-care with my husband who has another kidney stone causing him grief while trying to drop in on my dad's 80th birthday dinner during our wait at insta-care.

The GIVEAWAY is NOW CLOSED.

I will pick a winner hopefully tomorrow at some point but with church and a big extended family party for my dad's 80th it may have to wait for Monday after work before I can pick a winner. Keep an eye out for the winner announcement post.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

50th Birthday & Moda Giveaway!

2010-12-22T00:00:00.007-07:00

Well, the time has finally come to. . .

CELEBRATE my 50th Birthday

And what better way to celebrate than to have a. . .

GIVEAWAY!!!

I will be giving away quite a few things, so scroll on down, have a look see, and enter the giveaway.

PRIZE ONE:

Here's the first thing that I will be giving away. It's a Handmade By Me Sewing/Makeup Bag with matching tissue holder, sewing scissors, and matching pins. This is my newest favorite fabric, too! I made 12 of these bags for several of my sewing friends and while I was at it I made sure to keep one for this giveaway.

Prize TWO:

In addition to the sewing bag I will be giving away ONE Layer Cake of Fruitcake by Basic Grey in celebration of my newest Moda Bake Shop Project which you can see HERE.

PRIZE THREE:

I'm also giving away 4 tissue holders to 4 lucky winners.

Tutorial for tissue holders is located HERE.

It's Christmas time so, I'm going to keep it simple...

Enter Giveaway up to 4 times by doing the following:

Leave a comment on this post for one chance to win.
Post about the Giveaway on your blog then come back and leave me another comment for another chance to win.
Be or become a follower then leave me another comment for another chance to win.
Jump over to the Bakeshop and leave me another comment for another chance to win.
I will pick 6 names and the first two names will have a choice of the two top prizes and the other four names will win the 4 tissue holders.

The deadline for entering this giveaway

is January 1st 2011.

Quick & Easy Tissue Holder Tutorial

2010-12-21T14:40:00.008-07:00

This quick and easy tutorial makes 6 Kleenex Tissue Holders out of a small amount of three different fabrics. I love making these for friends and neighbors as little thank you gifts or to add to a bigger gift. I have one in my purse and one in my church bag.

What You Will Need:

7" of fabric for outside of tissue holder
7" of fabric for inside of tissue holder
6" of fabric for binding on tissue holder

Cutting Instructions:

Cut one strip of outside fabric measuring 6" x width of fabric
Cut one strip of inside fabric measuring 6" x width of fabric
Cut two strips of binding fabric measuring 2 1/2" x width of fabric

Sub-Cutting Instructions:

Sub-cut outside fabric into 6 rectangles measuring 6" x 6 1/2"
Sub-cut inside fabric into 6 rectangles measuring 6" x 6 1/2"
Sub-cut binding fabric into 12 rectangles measuring 2 1/2" x 6"

Sewing Instructions:

1. Take one inside fabric and one outside fabric measuring 6" x 6 1/2" and place them with the wrong sides together.

2. Repeat process for the remaining 6" x 6 1/2" rectangles making a total of 6 sets.

3. Take the twelve 2 1/2" x 6" strips fold in half and press with wrong sides together.

4. Using a 3/8" seam allowance sew two binding strips with one on each 6" side of the tissue holder.

5. Press binding fabric outward on both sides of tissue holder.

6. Fold the binding up and over to the back of each tissue holder and stitch in the ditch.

7. Repeat on the opposite sides of each tissue holder.

8. Fold tissue holder in half with the right sides together.

9. Press the corners. This is the center.

10. Fold binding edges into the pressed center mark and pin in place. Make sure the outside fabric is in the inside as seen in the picture below.

11. Using a 1/4" seam allowance sew both sides of the Tissue Holder closed. I like to backstitch at the beginning, the end, and over the opening to make sure it's really secure.

12. Finish the inside seams with a serger. If you don't have a serger that's okay. Just use a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.

13. Turn the tissue holders right side out making sure to push out the corners.

14. Press the tissue holders and you are done!

Kleenex Tissue Holders

~1 for you and 5 friends~

Can You Believe it?

2010-12-20T22:16:00.003-07:00

It's my 50th Birthday today and it's been so crazy that I didn't even get to make the post I had planned, but, I have something big coming on the 22nd so be sure to check back in a couple days.

Remember my daughter who went to New Zealand for 4months? Well, she flew in late this afternoon and we picked her up at the airport and then went out to dinner at the Outback Restaurant. What a perfect birthday. I had every one of my kids together after four long months of separation. I sure missed my daughter.

Hope you're enjoying your holiday preparations.

Blessings Banner

2010-11-26T16:57:00.008-07:00

Today, I am especially mindful of the abundant blessings I have in my life and the wonderful friends and family that have shared their lives with me. I want to thank my blogging friends, too. I really appreciate the time you take out of your busy lives to visit me here on my blog and for all of the kind words you leave in my comment box. Your comments are always appreciated.

Here's a little something I made yesterday. . . It's a Thanksgiving BANNER.

On Thanksgiving morning I woke up really early and all was quiet around the house. . . So. . . I quietly tiptoed downstairs to my sewing room hoping no one would find me for a few hours so I could focus on a few projects.

I was thinking, "What should I be working on today? I only have a short window of time before the final preparations begin. So, I better decide now and get working."

Well, as I was sitting there thinking I got side tracked from my multiple existing projects and decided to start a new project that's been brewing in the back of my head.

Here's the argument that went on in my head . . .

First off, I thought, "You've got to be crazy starting something new."

Then I thought,

"I can whip this out, it won't take long."

"You really need to do this, it's going to be really cute."

"But, I don't have time. . ."

"You can do this. . . you know you want to."

So, I got out my measuring tape and measured the mantel over my fire place and then pulled out my civil war prints and started picking out some of my favorite fabrics.

I decided on the word "Blessings" and figured out the math. You should've seen the frenzy. It's really satisfying for me to create something in my head and then create it. It's really a bonus to see that what you've made matches the vision in your head. It took me a total of 2.5 hours from thought to finish.

I will be posting a tutorial for this banner and the other one's I have floating around in my head sometime in the New Year. I will definitely let you know when I post it.

Halloween Apron Finish

2010-11-03T06:00:00.003-06:00

I finished my apron a week before Halloween and it was so fun to wear at school. What an easy costume and so comfortable to wear. I really like this pattern and blogged about it HERE. If you go to this post you will find the information about the pattern and the apron bib which I changed. This particular apron bib is a 9" spider web block with a 1" finished border all around the block.

To make my apron I used Riley Blake's "Boo to You" collection by Mind's Eye for Riley Blake. You can see the whole fabric line HERE on Riley Blake's Website. If you hurry you may still be able to find some of this fabric online. It will probably be on sale too. I found some of it HERE and HERE and HERE. You may still be able to find some in your Local Quilt Shops too.

I almost forgot. I also used a Moda Bella Solid Black in the block and the border around the block too .

This apron is reversible which I really like.

Can you see the back fabric of the skirt?

Here's a closer look.

The day before Halloween my friend Candice (at work) wore this black spider ring made out of black beads. I had been looking for a spider and thinking about maybe having to make one when my eye saw this spider on Candice's hand. It was the perfect size and look that I wanted.

At lunchtime, I ran to the store where she got it and bought two of the last 3 spider's they had left. She thought they were gone and we started looking. I was so excited when we found a few hiding amongst the Halloween fare. The spider was the perfect finishing touch and the other spider ring I wore on my hand. So cool!!!

I hope you all had a great time giving out or collecting candy!!!

Costume Wrap Up

2010-11-02T15:14:00.006-06:00

I finished Kenna's costume just in time for her Class Party. It took a lot longer to make than I projected because I got such a late start in the day. I finally sat down at my sewing machine at 10:30pm. I was already tired so I wasn't sewing very fast because I didn't want to have to unpick anything. I still made a mistake that didn't look like a mistake until it was finished and I thought "Oh Well, I don't even care. It's okay and no one will notice." and they didn't. I fell into bed at 3:30am and got up at 7:00am to get ready for work. It was a crazy night. I felt like a Zombie (Hi Monica!) the next day. lol.

Anyway, I'm just happy to mark that one off my list.

My current "To Do List" is quite LONG but, I'm ALWAYS juggling things around to suit my needs and to help others when called upon. But you know, I like it that way....

My sweet Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz.

What kid doesn't like donuts?

Hip Ruby Slippers.

Because Kenna wears a women's size 8 we couldn't find any sparkly glittery ruby slippers plus there was no time to make them nor did I want to deal with the mess so, we decided to buy cute red converse shoes that she could wear afterwards. They looked really cute on her.

It's Called Procrastination

2010-10-28T07:27:00.003-06:00

This is what I will be working on later today when I get home from work. There's nothing that causes more stress than Procrastination. lol. I was going to work on it yesterday but I was out buying a costume for Achievement days yesterday since I hadn't made Kenna's costume yet. lol. Oh well, I can only do what I can do and I have to be okay with that or I'll drive myself crazy. I have too many pots on the stove at one time.

I'm hoping someone understands my wonderful life. By the way...I'm NEVER BORED and I like it that way.

I will show pictures when I finish. Oh, I did get my halloween costume done. lol. I will take pictures of it later. I knew that if I didn't finish mine it probably wouldn't happen. I can deal with one last minute halloween costume but not two.

Have a great day!!! I better dry my hair and get to work.

And Snow it Goes...

2010-10-27T18:46:00.007-06:00

Well, this morning brought us a great big surprise in the form of SNOW!!!! I like snow but, I wasn't quite ready for it. . . mentally. . . anyway.

Heck. Just yesterday it was summer and fall seemed like such a small blip on the screen.

So, I thought it would be fun to share the pictures I took today.

This is the scene I saw when I opened the garage to leave for work this morning.

I love this snow covered look. So beautiful and serene.

My flowerless pots.

I miss the flowers already.

Today's Snow Related Humor:

Before the kids went outside for recess the teacher gave the kids a few SNOW instructions.

No throwing snowballs at the building.
No throwing snowballs at each other.
No throwing snowballs at anything.
And. . . make sure not to get too wet.

The kids all ran out with excitement! Ready to play, play, play.

I had my camera today so I snapped a few pictures as I watched the kids enjoy the first snowfall of the season. What a great recess!!! The teacher even gave us 10 extra minutes.

The girls in my class were really funny pushing around these huge snow balls and Mr. O (the teacher) who has a very dry sense of humor asked them if they planned on throwing it.

The girls responded with. . . huh?

I giggled. . . refer to rules #1, #2, #3.

Look at the huge snowball they made.

Can I get some help here?

Everyone PUSH!!!

They managed to get a just slightly smaller snowball on top of the huge snowball and then made a smaller one for the head of their snowman.

They finished him off with eyes, small stick arms, and a smile.

They also made a small friend to keep him company.

The boys got in on the snowball action too.

I'm happy to report that NO throwing of snowballs occurred during recess.

Mr. O was very happy!

All pictures have been creatively cropped and faces have been distorted to protect the kids.

Apple Pie Goodie

2010-10-24T21:56:00.008-06:00

Fall is officially here and it's feeling like winter is not too far around the corner. The leaves have been changing, the weather has been wet, the temperature is falling and we even saw snow on the mountaintops. I can't believe it's finally here. Yeah! I absolutely LOVE the COLD weather!

So to celebrate the changing of the seasons I'm going to share one of our family's favorite desserts called Apple Pie Goodie. It's been a while since I last made it but, today was the perfect day to make this warm, gooey, tasty, and yummylicious dessert.

So Let's Get Started. . .

Apple Pie Goodie

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

5-6 Large Granny Smith Apples (peeled, cut, and sliced)
1 cup Sugar
1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
1/4 tsp. Salt
2 tbsp. Flour

Place the peeled, cut, and sliced apples in a 9" x 13" pan.

Mix dry ingredients then pour over apples.

Stir to make sure apples are evenly covered.

Set aside.

Apple Topping

3/4 cup Brown Sugar
3/4 cup Quick Oats
3/4 cup Flour
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/4 tsp. Baking Soda
1/4 tsp. Baking Powder
1 Stick Melted Butter

Mix the dry ingredients for topping.

Set aside.

Melt butter and pour over dry ingredients.

Mix well.

Crumble topping over the sliced apples.

Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.

Let cool for 5-10 minutes, if you can wait that long. lol.

Just be careful not to burn your tongue.

Serve with ice cream.

Enjoy!

Look who wanted to get in on the action. . . My grandson, Benjamin.

He really wanted to help and told me how much he loved this "gooey" dessert!

Grandkids are the APPLE of my EYE!!!

Tini Treat Bags

2010-10-18T18:34:00.014-06:00

Over the weekend I started the "Tini Treat Bags" that were designed by Monica Solorio-Snow from Happy Zombieland. You can find the pattern HERE.

I'm making these bags for some of my friends at work who have October birthdays and for some friends from church that I visit teach. I thought it would be fun to fill them up and spread some Halloween Cheer.

I've managed to cut out 12 bags and I've completed 5 bags with 7 bags to go. All 12 have been sewn together. I just have to sew the 4 corners and turn the bags right side out and then press them. It shouldn't take me more than an hour, I'm hoping anyway.

Finished Bag Size: 4" x 4" x 2"

This is another one of Monica's patterns that she did last year called "The Poochie Bag" and this is the LINK for the larger version. The smaller version (as seen in the picture above) is called "The Itty Bitty Poochie Bag" and you'll find it on the Moda Bakeshop HERE.

If you love bags here's a BAG that I designed for the Moda Bakeshop. It's big enough to hold a few charm packs or fat quarters and any other little goodies you may want to give to a friend for a birthday or special occasion. I love making, designing and giving little things to friends.

These are the 7 Tini Treat Bags that I have yet to complete.

After I finish the bags I will be starting on Kenna's Halloween Costume and working on the binding for my "Sneek Peak" quilt that I just picked up.

Halloween Countdown

2010-10-15T06:00:00.001-06:00

17 Days and Counting until Halloween . . .

I made this Halloween Countdown Calendar many many years ago for my children when they were very young. Thinking back it's been about 17 years ago. Each year that I remember to bring it out of it's box a flood of memories come to mind. I remember all of the costumes I've made and the fun times we had trick or treating together. Those memories are still being made with my last child and my 2 grandchildren.

I'm going to keep myself busy during my (4 glorious days) Fall Break making costumes and other fun little projects that I'll be trying to get done this weekend and will post about them in a few days, hopefully! lol.

I just thought you might enjoy seeing this fun and unique countdown calendar and for those who are going to ask, I'm sorry that it's been soooo long that I wouldn't even know where to look for the pattern or who designed it. If anyone knows, feel free, to leave me a comment. Thanks.

You probably noticed that I'm missing just one little pumpkin in my pumpkin patch. I'm just happy I have as many as I have after all of these years. Also you may notice too that most of the cute pumpkin stems have fallen off and are missing. Oh well, it's still useful and I adore it anyway!

I hope everyone is enjoying the wonderful fall weather this weekend.

October Schnibbling

2010-10-14T12:55:00.006-06:00

Last night, my friend, Diana and I went Schnibbling and Quilt Shop Hopping to the Holiday Shop Hop "Fall Frenzy" that's going on this weekend throughout Utah and Salt Lake Counties. We left at 4:00pm hoping to make it to at least 4 or 5 shops but, only visited 3 shops before our class at 6:30pm at Thimbles and Threads. The TRAFFIC and TALKING slowed us down. lol.

I probably won't have time to visit any more shops today because I'm trying to finish up a few projects and get to the post office to mail a few things. and tomorrow we are taking the kids, grandkids, and neighbor kids out to Cornbelly's at Thanksgiving Point.

I will have to see about Saturday. Oh, but, I have laundry and cleaning to do....darn. I will have to get busy.

Here are a few pictures from last night and as you can see we have a few headless quilts. I'm afraid that a few of the ladies are totally shy but, I can relate. Did you see me in any of the pictures. lol. I made Diana hold my quilt so I could get a picture of it. hehehe.

This is one of the newest Schnibbles Patterns called "Jack"

This one is called Hot Cross.

This one is called Plan C.

I'm sorry but I don't know the name of this one and couldn't find it on the Schnibbles website.

This is my version of Roundabout.

It only took me two months to find the time to finish it.

Now I just need to quilt it.

Thanks Diana for holding my quilt so I could get a picture of it.

Here are a few extra things that Sandra brought to show us. She will be teaching this beautiful Dresden Tablerunner at Winterfest (please correct me if I'm wrong, thanks).

Off to the Quilters...

2010-10-06T15:48:00.003-06:00

...Finally! My newest project has taken me forever to finish and it ended up HUGE, measuring 84 inches x 96 1/2 inches. I'm really excited to share my newest pattern with you but I want to wait to show it to you when it's done being quilted. It should take about a week for Kaylene to finish it.

Book Signing for Paranormalcy

2010-10-04T20:05:00.005-06:00

It's been more than a few weeks since we went to the book signing of my daughter's friend and writing buddy, Kiersten White. It was such a blast. I have to say that this is the 2nd book signing I've been to and it was a lot of fun being with my daughter, her husband, and her friends.

Go HERE to check out Kiersten's blog

The first picture is of Sara (writer friend) who flew out from Ohio to be there for Kiersten's debut at King's English Bookstore in Salt Lake City.

The Amazing Book!!

Giving Kiersten the Quilt I made for her.

Kiersten doing a reading for the group that gathered.

Several of the Utah Writer's that gathered to Celebrate Kiersten's Big Day!!!

Kiersten signing Natalie's book.

Best Friends!!!

I love this picture!!!

This a great picture of Kiersten signing her autograph to Natalie's book.

This is Kiersten's very Proud father standing outside of the bookstore.

More Schnibbling

2010-09-29T16:34:00.008-06:00

I can't believe it's the end of the month. Where did it go? It's just flown by around here and I'm afraid that there hasn't been much happening in my craft room this month. It's been crazy busy at work so I come home exhausted and too tired to start anything. I have finished reading 3 books and have started a 4th one. I like to read at night before I go to bed and during my lunchtime break at school. What books have you been reading lately?

Anyway. Here are some pictures from our Schnibbles group that met earlier this month. Enjoy!

By the way this pattern is called "JOY LUCK"

Schnibbles "Plan C" pattern

Dresdens

Let's Play Checkers Pattern. Do you see the pocket in the bottom left hand corner of the quilt in the picture above. It holds the checkers.

Pittock Mansion

2010-09-05T16:57:00.004-06:00

One of the highlights of our trip to Oregon was a place called Pittock Mansion. It was Kenna's turn to pick a place to visit so, this happened to be the place she decided on. If you live in or around Portland and you've never been to Pittock Mansion I can tell you that it's a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. It would be fun to pack a lunch and have a picnic while walking around the property. Apparently a lot of wedding pictures are take up at the mansion and I can see why. It's a treasure of a place and I'm happy the city of Portland saved it from disrepair.

While we were there I took over a hundred pictures. It was a really hot day but it was worth the sweat. . . hehehe. Anyway, I thought I would share half of the pictures that I took while taking a tour of the mansion. The gardens are beautiful but because of the heat I didn't explore very much outside. Enjoy.

Pittock Mansion in Portland Oregon - free slideshow maker with music

Book Debut

2010-08-31T18:25:00.004-06:00

Just a reminder that my daughter's best friend, Kiersten White's Book "Paranormalcy" DEBUTS TODAY!!! You can find it HERE on AMAZON or at your local Barnes & Noble and lots of other bookstores near you. I recently finished Kiersten's book and I can highly recommend it to young and old alike. It is fresh, exciting and captivatingly romantic and funny. You will love Evie's voice in the book. I'm not going to tell you anything because I don't want to give anything away. Just know that you will love it.

We are SUPER EXCITED for Kiersten and we've recently heard news that she just signed a Movie Deal for film rights to her book. That is really cool news!!! You can read more about the excitement at Kiersten's Blog.

If you're a writer my daughter is having a Paranormalcy Party and is giving away a FULL Manuscript Critique on her blog. Go HERE to read more about the Party. Her contest will end September 7th. Kiersten is also having a contest and giveaway that will end September 12th so run HERE and enter her contest.

For those of you who would like to meet her in person and have her sign your copy of her book you can go HERE for TOUR information. A few other author's will be traveling with Kiersten.

Kiersten will be here in Salt Lake City, Utah at King's English Bookstore on September 11th at 2pm for a book signing. If you come look for me and say HI. I just may have something for you if you tell me you read this on my blog. I'd love to see you there!!!

Dreams Do Come True. . .

2010-08-30T17:53:00.006-06:00

Of all my children, Ariel, is the most outgoing and ready to jump at the chance to travel anywhere in this world. I remember last year when Aunt Claudia (my mom's sister) came over from New Zealand for several weeks and it was right then that she decided that she was going to fly to New Zealand and see the country, visit her relatives, and be able to experience, first hand, her Maori Heritage. . . another link

Her DREAM finally came TRUE!!!

We took her to the Salt Lake City Airport this past Friday evening to board a plane to fly to the Los Angeles Airport and from there fly to Auckland, New Zealand. . .

Notice the Double Rainbow!?

The Rainbow was certainly a serendipitous sight as we approached the airport.
(meaning: unexpected and unforseen)

It brought smiles to our faces and warmed my heart.

I was comforted and knew that I could let her go.
I knew also, that she would be in very good hands along the way.

It's hard to say goodbye but with all of the technology that keeps us connected it will be fun to keep in contact with her. It's funny but, we've actually talked more with her in the last 3 days than we have in the last few weeks. She's been really busy finishing up at work, getting ready for school (that she'll be doing online from NZ), buying school books, packing, cleaning, organizing, taking care of last minute doctor appointments, banking details, and saying goodbye to friends, and family.

Here she is saying goodbye and getting ready to go through security. We watched as she walked away from us toward her new adventure!!! Wow! I can't hardly believe she's in another country. We are so excited for her and know she will grow in so many ways and have lots of wonderful experiences.

Nothing like waiting until the very last minute but it was just a few days before Ariel left that she asked me to make her a camera case and a case for her new iPod Touch.

So, here it is. . .

Ariel's Quilted & Zippered Tech Pouch. . .

I found a 4" zipper at JoAnn's and made this Tech Pouch to protect her iPod Touch and her digital camera. If I had taken a picture of the inside of the pouch you would see a quilted divider seperating and protecting both the camera and the iPod Touch.

The smaller pouch you see is a craft fail in the sense that the zipper was too small and prevented the camera fitting in lengthwise. I should have made it a 1/2" wider to accommodate the camera so, now it's a pouch to hold makeup, money, or any other small item you want to carry in your purse.

I also wanted to make an identification tag for her Tech Pouch too, so I used my metal stamps to stamp her name on a metal blank. Then I added the zipper pull clip and a swarovski heart and small bear charm. It was a fun touch to finish it off.