happy little cottage

Super Tuesday

2012-03-06T21:00:00.000-05:00

Today is Super Tuesday at my house. My baby is 21! On March 6, 1991, I gave birth to THE most wonderful daughter a mother could ask for! The past 21 years have gone by in a blink, and I now have a best friend as well as a daughter.
The day started with pancakes with sprinkles. And then I had fun decorating her cake with MORE sprinkles and a bunting banner!! Then it was off to dinner at Carrabba's. The fried zucchini appetizer is the birthday girl's favorite. Mine too!!

Thursday Tid-Bits

2012-03-01T16:45:00.001-05:00

Just thought I would drop in and say hello. This post is just a bunch of random tid bits of what's happening in my world this week.

Pam Kitty Morning. A different colorway than I used last time. But I LOVE making patchwork and dresden plate pillows with it. This fabric reminds me of everything I love about the cottage look. Beadboard, benches, gingham, mason jars, white daisies and quilts. I think these pillows would be so perfect on a front porch! I have a quilt in mind, but need time to work on it.

And no cottage would be complete without a bunting banner.

Speaking of bunting banners, have you seen Downton Abbey???? The episode at the fair with all of those white fairy lights and bunting banners? I felt weak at the knees!!! You have to watch this if you like beautiful locations, gorgeous costumes and wonderful acting. I finished Season 1 Episode 4 last night. Cannot wait to watch more.

Warm weather. My crocuses are already in bloom! Daffodils are springing up! YAY! I actually got to wear just a sweater outside yesterday after work. Not long until I can break out the flip flops and paint my toenails pink!!

Just finished a cup of coffee, and the sewing machine is calling. I hope you are all having a wonderful Thursday!

Weekend Update

2012-02-25T20:24:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all the get well wishes!! Last time I posted, I was just coming down with a cold that ended up having me curled under a blanket sipping tea and taking dayquil for what seemed like FOREVER!! I hate being sick. Except for the part where it is completely OK to spend hours on Pinterest!!! A stuffy head makes sewing almost impossible. It was a long week of going to work and keeping up with my etsy shop. I really wanted to work on some new things, and today I finally got a chance. BUNTING BANNERS!!!!

I really love them and would put them all over my house if I could get away with it :) I don't think that there is a single spot that wouldn't be more cheerful with a bunting banner hanging in it!!!

I also spent a few hours cutting my new order of Pam Kitty Morning fabric which was nothing but fun! Gosh how I love the prints and colors of that fabric. It was a great way to spend the day since it was another one of the few snowy days we have had this winter.

I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend!!

Friday

2012-02-17T19:54:00.000-05:00

The end of the week finds me wrapped in a quilt with a box of tissues and cough drops at hand. Sniffle.

But I had a wonderful week. Valentine's Day was lovely. We made lots of chocolate goodies for our valentine's and went out to dinner using a gift card from Christmas. The weather has been strangely warm, and we are already thinking about Easter decorating.

I am hoping to feel well enough to spend some time in the sewing room. I have lots of new fabric that I am anxious to play with.

Ah Ah Ah Achooooooo!!!!

Happy weekend!

All Tied Up

2012-02-12T19:05:00.002-05:00

I started this quilt in October as a way to use up my Ruby jelly roll. I finished two squares, and then got busy making other things. I made a few more squares the other day and decided that I liked the scrappy, vintage look. I also decided that this quilt really should be hand tied. I used some perle cotton and just started tying. It was quick and easy, and I think makes the quilt look even more vintage. I've noticed that hand tying is popular in blogland this week!

I loved how it looks even more after coming out of the dryer!

I decided to try a machine sewn binding. It is really fast and easy, but I still love the look of hand sewn binding. I also added a Happy Little Cottage label! This is also one of the first quilts I have made that are a rectangle. It measures about 31" x 42" and I think is a great size for a baby quilt.

It is listed in the shop!

Busy

2012-02-09T21:16:00.000-05:00

Wow! What a week it has been! I have been busy sewing lots of cute things that so many nice people have ordered from my shop. Three of my quilts are now in the nurseries of new sweet baby girls! And lots of pin cushions have been ordered and are now in sewing baskets across the country! I am beyond excited, and am loving every second at the sewing machine. The quilt above is in the works for another mom to be!

But...this has left not so much time for blogging. And today I took a break and went on a road trip to Ikea! Lots of new items, and lots of new cute cottage prints and furniture. I am off to help Becky assemble a bed side table. Wish us luck!

Hope you have a great weekend, and thanks to all of you who helped spread the word about my shop! xoxo Debbie

Creative

2012-02-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

I loved reading all the comments about what you do to beat the winter blues. I found it very interesting that all of us, whether we live in Russia or England or Ohio, use creativity to save our sanity when it is gray and bleak outside. I seems that color is key. We quilt, sew, embroider, knit and crochet. Some of us take glorious photos and create beautiful blogs. We also cozy up our nests by painting and restoring cool thrift store finds. We are CREATIVE ♥

And now to the winner of the give away!

Dottie, you didn't leave me an email address, so please send a note with your address to happylittlecottage at yahoo dot com, so I can send your happy little pincushion on it's way!

Happy weekend!

A Little Fun

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but right about now the winter blahs start to set in. So I thought a little fun was in order. How about a giveaway? I've never done one, and you all have been so nice about my pincushions. So I am going to send one to one of you!

Isn't it cute!!! You could put it next to your sewing machine, in your embroidery basket or if you don't sew it would even be cute sitting on a shelf. All you have to do is leave a comment and say hello. Tell me what you are doing to beat the winter blahs. I will have Mr. Random Number Generator pick a winner on Friday!

Thanks so much for visiting here and leaving such nice comments! And good luck.

EDITED TO ADD: COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED! I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNER TOMORROW!!!!!!!

Pincushion Love

2012-01-28T11:05:00.000-05:00

Procrastination is my middle name. I am working on a new quilt for the shop, but I keep being sidetracked by all the inspiration on Pinterest. I had to immediately stop all work on the quilt and make one of these.

I followed this tutorial, and had so much danged fun that I had to make another one! Someone please stop me!!

Now, back to work on the quilt. If I can not go on Pinterest, the next post will be my new Ruby quilt.

EDITED TO ADD: There is now a happy little pincushion available in my shop!

Recycling Can Be Cute

2012-01-26T15:17:00.000-05:00

From a can of diced jalapenos to this! A cute holder for bobbins to sit next to my machine and make me smile every time I use it. I loved Lucy's version done in crochet, and then I saw this one at Crazy Mom Quilts. I used up little scraps of Pam Kitty Morning, which I LOVE LOVE LOVE!! And I adore fabric covered buttons. I could make them all day long :)

And a BIG GIANT Thank You for all of your sweet comments!! Now back to my big project.....

Pam Kitty Morning

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Pam Kitty Morning. Doesn't that name just make you smile? That is the name of the fabric I used for my newest pillows. Pam Vieira-McGinnis is the creator of the blog Pam Kitty Morning and she is the designer of this super cute fabric.

I could not wait to make something with this fabric. It has such a fun retro-vintage feel to it, and I love the saturated colors. I knew I wanted to make another Dresden Plate and then I decided to make a basic patchwork pillow. I love how the fabric gives each design a fun, fresh look. I think a quilt may be in the works...

And of course, you can find them in my shop.

Keep Calm and Sew On

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Inspired by Jodi over at Pleasant Home, I took a break from making things for my shop, and made these cute little mats. I love my new mug!!

I spent almost all weekend in the craft room! YAY! I love when I am feeling inspired, and I have some cute new things to show you!

Happy Monday!

Ruby Too!

2012-01-21T14:13:00.000-05:00

Here is my finished Dresden Plate. Boy are these FUN to make!!! I really loved doing the hand applique while watching TV in the evenings! I made this one into a pillow to match the Ruby quilt that I just finished. I started the quilt in October, and it was sitting all during the holidays, waiting for me to finish it! I absolutely love working with Ruby fabric. The colors are just so fresh and perfect!!

These are both listed in my shop. From my Happy Little Cottage to your home sweet home!

It's A First

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

My first sale in my etsy shop. The lovely Simone in Australia purchased one of my pillow covers! I hope it is perfect in her sweet home!

I have been sewing and making samples of things that I would like to stock my shop with. I will make quilts here and there, but I am itching to make and sew lots of other things too. Stay tuned......

Oh, and before I forget, you may have noticed that Blogger has added a cool feature to comments. We are now able to reply directly to any comment that is left on the blog. I am REALLY bad at checking my email, so if you have any questions, just leave them in my comments and I will answer them right here, so be sure to check back!

W.I.P.

2012-01-15T11:09:00.000-05:00

W.I.P. Works in Progress. Just a really nice way to say unfinished projects :) Here it is mid January already!! Wow! We had our first snowfall yesterday that hasn't melted. I spent the day warm and cozy in the craft room working on some new and not so new projects.

First up is my Wonky Star project that I started this summer. I had no idea what this was going to be, but I think it is an awesome pillow sham! First attempt at hand quilting. Still needs binding.

Next is a Christmas gift from Becky. Embroidery!!! YAY!! I haven't done embroidery in years, but I saw this darling sampler on etsy, and hinted that I would really love for Santa to leave one in my stocking. She actually gave me two samplers, but I started with the easier of the two. ♥ it.

And finally...Dresden!!! Fun! This ruler is the best $5.00 I've spent in awhile. (50% coupon at Joann's). I have lots of projects in mind for this little guy.

I see a trend towards smaller projects. I like having small, portable projects, AND I am using up scraps and stash fabrics. But I really want to make one of these like Trish at Notes of Sincerity. It really does make me SWOON!!!

Happy New Year!!!!

2012-01-01T12:17:00.000-05:00

Here's to the best year ever!! A fresh start. A shiny new year full of wonderful possibilities. My new calendar is on the kitchen wall with 365 days to fill with wonderful memories!

2011

2011-12-31T08:09:00.000-05:00

I am writing this post while wrapped up in one of the quilts that I made this year. I am amazed that I can even say that. At the start of 2011 I had no idea that I would accomplish so many projects, let alone learn how to quilt. Looking back at these photos makes me realize that 2011 was full of everyday blessings that I am so thankful for!

I am looking forward to a new year filled with lots of creative projects and I wish all of you a 2012 filled with peace, security, love, happiness and joy!

What Are You Doing New Years Eve?

2011-12-30T22:12:00.002-05:00

Are not these two impossibly adorable? And I think every girl needs a tiara.

Hope you have a wonderful New Years Eve!!

December 16 - Gingerbread Cottage

2011-12-18T10:27:00.000-05:00

Getting closer to the big day. Time goes so fast and I wish it would slow down. I love this part of Christmas. The lights. The warmth. The music. Everything feels like magic.

Becky was the gingerbread house artist this year. I love her attention to detail. She used tweezers to apply each teeny weeny candy wafer to the roof! The kit came from Ikea. If you get a chance to visit Ikea before Christmas, you really should pick up one their kits. They are $3.99 and really nicely made. And they really are fun to decorate!

December 14 - Loved Ones

2011-12-16T22:35:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday night we invited some of the people we love most to dinner. This is my sister, my daughter and my mom. Aren't they the cutest!!

My mom brought a bottle of wine and Becky made individual shepherd's pies and I threw together a big tossed salad. We had eight people around the table and the conversation flowed and there was a lot of laughter. My house comes into its own at Christmas, and it is even more special when filled with loved ones.

And as I am posting this, I realized this is my 100th post!! I am so thankful for all of you who stop by and leave me such sweet comments!. I hope that each and every one of you is having a wonderful week before Christmas ♥

December 13 - Knitting

2011-12-13T21:28:00.000-05:00

In the midst of holiday decorating and baking I suddenly really had the desire to knit! I am making a pair of mittens out of super soft worsted weight Malabrigo. They are knitting up really fast and I think they will make a super cute gift for someone special!!

December 12 - Chai

2011-12-12T21:48:00.000-05:00

Chai. Otherwise known as the official drink of Christmas. I will never forget the first time I had a chai latte. We were walking around the village square in Medina, Ohio looking at the Christmas lights and window shopping. It was cold and snowy, so we decided to warm up in the local coffee shop. And there on the menu board was something called Chai. I asked the barista what it was, and he said to just try it. So I did. And after the first sip I said "This tastes like Christmas"! And I still think it does.

December 11 - Sunday

2011-12-11T17:45:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that I did not do anything particularly Christmassy today.

Laundry needed to be done.
Floors needed to be swept.
Piles of stuff in the craft room needed attention.
Refrigerators needed to be CLEANED out!!

Oh wait....I did watch Christmas In Connecticut this morning. I love that movie!! Sleigh rides and pretty dresses get me every time! Have you seen it?

I am in the mood for some hand stitching, so I may finish off one of my summer projects. Can't decide whether this wants to be a pillow or a table topper.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!!

P.S I know. Purple!! This ornament is on my daughter's tree in her bedroom. Bright colors reign supreme in her room :)

December 10 - The Nutcracker

2011-12-10T22:27:00.001-05:00

Tonight was the first time I have seen a professional performance of The Nutcracker. Tonight I understood the meaning of the word "breathtaking". The set design was stunning, the costumes were lovely, the children were adorable and the dancers were so unbelievably talented. I LOVED every minute, and cannot wait to go see it again next year.

December 9 - Ikea Love

2011-12-09T18:03:00.000-05:00

So many of our decorations this year came from a trip to Ikea in November. Ikea totally understands our style. Red gingham, red lanterns and this adorable little goat. Dinner time is really cheerful each evening as I have every day red and white dishes that look so cute with the Christmas decorations! So thank you, Ikea, for all the of decorating help this year!!

December 8 - Green Coffee Cake

2011-12-08T17:13:00.000-05:00

Every year, for many years, I made a homemade, from scratch, sour cream coffee cake for Christmas morning. It was a recipe made out of tradition more than anything else. One year, on a lark, I made a pistachio cake recipe that was a relic from the 70's. My kids LOVED it. They named it the Green Coffee Cake, and it has now replaced the time intensive sour cream coffee cake. It is delicious AND really easy to make.

Here's the recipe if you'd like to give it a try!

For the cake:

1 18.25 oz. box yellow cake mix
1 3.4 oz. box instant pistachio pudding
1 c. sour cream (you can use light if you want)
4 eggs
1/2 c. vegetable oil

For the filling:

1/2 c. chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) you want these finely chopped
4 T. granulated sugar
1 t. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl blend together the cake and pudding mix. Add the sour cream, eggs and oil. Mix well. In a small bowl, mix together the nuts, sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the cake batter into a greased and floured (or use Bakers Joy) 10" tube pan. Put half of the nut mixture on the batter in the pan and press down lightly. Pour the remaining batter in the pan and top with with remaining nut mixture. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. Let cool in pan for about 10-15 minutes and then invert onto a cooling rack.

Happy Baking!!!

December 7 - Christmas Movies

2011-12-07T22:02:00.000-05:00

We are still adding cute things around the house. Another tree. A cute wreath. During the evening we have been wrapped up in quilts watching Christmas movies. As I am typing this post, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is on. Last night we watched White Christmas while making more candy.

We even came up with a top 5 Christmas movies list:

5. Miracle on 34th Street

4. Elf

3. The Santa Clause

2. White Christmas

and

1. A Christmas Story

Are you a Christmas movie fan? What is your favorite?

December 6 - Snowflakes

2011-12-06T18:40:00.000-05:00

It is very unusual that we haven't had any snow yet. But that hasn't bothered us in the least. We spent a few evenings while watching Hallmark channel movies with scissors, paper and Pinterest instructions and started cutting. Once we got started it was really hard to stop. Each one turned out so different from the next, just like the real thing. The snowflakes are now on almost every window in the house, and I love the lacy effect they give. I especially love them at night, when the outside lights are on. It makes the long dark nights more cheerful!

This is a totally fun activity to do with your kids, even if they aren't so small anymore :)

December 5 - A Charlie Brown Christmas

2011-12-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

And this, Charlie Brown, is what Christmas is all about.

December 4 - Candy Making

2011-12-04T21:02:00.000-05:00

Today was spent making all kinds of delicious chocolate confections. We turned my Mom's house into Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. With Christmas music playing on the radio and all the Christmas lights turned on, we melted pounds and pounds of chocolate, and made all kinds of chocolate confections to give to friends as Christmas gifts.

Oreos and pretzels were coated in chocolate and sprinkles. We made trays of peppermint bark, chocolate toffee and chocolate covered peanuts. We also made the cutest candy canes with chocolate Santas, which I think will be delicious with a cup of hot chocolate.

These are the days that I look forward to all year. A chance to spend time with my favorite people, making handmade presents that are made with love and laughter.

December 3 - Ornaments

2011-12-03T18:00:00.000-05:00

I look forward every year to opening the boxes filled with my Christmas decorations, especially my tree ornaments. Unwrapping each tissue wrapped ornaments is a link to the past. So many of my ornaments have been given to me over the years by loved family members and friends.

This year starts a new tradition with handmade ornaments. Most of the ornaments on our dining room tree were crocheted or handmade I by Becky during the month of October.

I adore the felt ornaments with gingham ribbon. The crochet birds were inspired by Lucy at Attic24 and could not be more adorable.

And I know I posted this photo before, but I really do love this ornament!

December 2 - Christmas Sweaters

2011-12-02T13:06:00.001-05:00

No. Not Christmas sweaters for people. Christmas sweaters for a cute little puppy! She has a whole wardrobe of them thanks to the Dollar Spot at Target :)

Doesn't she look like she belongs in Charlie Brown Christmas when all the kids are singing "Hark The Herald Angels Sing"? Loo loo loo loo loo, breath, loo loo loo loo.......

December 1 - Whirlygigs

2011-12-01T16:17:00.001-05:00

We call them spinny things. Or whirlygigs. But they are actually called German Christmas Pyramids. I bought my first one years ago for just a few dollars and really had no idea what it was. But when I put it together and lit the candles and saw the fan move for the first time, we were entranced!

For some reason, the box was stored in the basement and I forgot I had it. It languished there until I saw this post by Alicia Paulson and went searching the depths of the basement for the box. I found it and placed it on the table. And once again we were enchanted by the motion of the fan and the glow of the candles.

Last year while Christmas shopping with my Mom, we stopped at TJ Maxx, and there, nestled among all kinds of Christmas baubles was an authentic Christmas Pyramid. I jumped up and down in excitement, and my Mom knew instantly what to get me for Christmas! Even though I could buy stock in candles, I love lighting these each evening. I think they are possibly my favorite decoration.

December Daily

2011-11-30T19:21:00.001-05:00

Those of you who scrapbook, and maybe even some of you who don't, will know who Ali Edwards is, and the wonderful December Daily album that she does each year.

I have decided to take this concept one step further, and use my blog as my December Daily album. I am going to post about all of the holiday fun, crafts and traditions that I adore so much. I hope you will follow along, and maybe even create your own December Daily on your blog. Please let me know if you do!! I would love to see how you celebrate!

Be Cheerful

2011-11-29T15:10:00.001-05:00

For the first time in many years, I have a real LIVE tree in my house. The smell of pine welcomes me each morning as I come downstairs to make coffee. Almost all of the ornaments on this tree were handmade by my beautiful and talented daughter. She has been the source of so much cheer in our house and is my own personal elf decorating the house for the holidays.

The decision to buy a real LIVE tree was made on the spur of the moment last week. We were out and about getting last minute things that we needed for Thanksgiving and went past Home Depot, where they have real LIVE trees lined up outside. We parked the car and were about to head into the store and decided to take a detour to look at the trees. Hmmm we said. A fraser fir tree for under $18.00? That can fit into the budget. We decided to think it over, and head back later that evening. So after dinner, we went back, headed to where the trees were, and it started to rain. And by rain I mean pouring down rain. But we were not deterred. No. We were cheerful .We were dragging trees and holding them up to see what would not only fit in the house, but in our tiny little car. And can I just say how awesome the staff at Home Depot are? They baled the tree, and the cutest young man helped us put it in the car and gave instructions on how to tie down the trunk. They were cheerful!

So as you start this wonderful holiday season, please "Be Cheerful and Pass It On!"

Hello!

2011-11-10T12:02:00.001-05:00

Things have been quiet at the Happy Little Cottage as far as crafting goes and so I have taken an unintended blog break. The only thing I have done is cut out some fabric in an attempt to start a red and white Christmas quilt.

Do you ever lose your crafting mojo? Or maybe we just get busy with other things and push crafting to the back burner? Whatever....I have been doing other fun things.

Halloween was a lot of fun! We had hundreds of trick or treaters and the weather was perfect. I also learned something new, that in all my years of pumpkin carving I never even thought of. Before lighting the candle in your jack o lantern, sprinkle some cinnamon in the lids. The aroma was divine. Kinda like a pumpkin pie baking. Make sure you try it next year :)

I also did an Ikea trip, though this time we went to the Ikea in Michigan. Ikea decorated for Christmas is so much fun. I loved the addition of Christmas trees to their room displays! I saved up my birthday money so that I could splurge on the Ikea trip. Everything we bought is for Christmas decorating, and I can hardly wait to start. By tradition, we wait until the day after Thanksgiving to start. I love waking up early, drinking coffee and eating left over pie and then starting to decorate!! And the best part is I can officially listen to Christmas music as much as I want. Not to say I am not listening on Pandora right now :)

When do you start decorating your homes for Christmas?

Leftovers

2011-10-20T17:01:00.000-04:00

Thank you much for all of the Happy Birthdays last week! I basically celebrated all weekend and enjoyed every moment. I am really looking forward to what this year has to bring.

I had quite a bit of fabric leftover from my Halloween quilt, and as I am definitely in the Halloween spirit, I thought I would play with my scraps and see what I could make.

First I tried my hand at making a mug rug. I know I am waaaaay late to the party on these, but boy are they fun to make AND a great way to practice machine sewing bindings!

Next I wanted to try something using half square triangles, so I made a pillow. I am not loving this to be honest, but it does add a bit of color to my couch.

And I made a table runner. This is so much cuter in person. My dining room is so dark and it is hard to get great photos, but I really wanted to show you this. Once again I machine sewed the binding on, and the more I am doing this, the easier and neater it gets. I think I mentioned that I bought a darning foot for my machine, and I have been playing with it, but I wasn't brave enough to try to freemotion quilt this runner.

I have a few projects going for my shop, and I am trying to decide if I want to add things like table runners and mug rugs. Quilts are such a big undertaking, and the supplies are expensive as well, so I am thinking some small items may help to fill up the shop. Any suggestions?

October 13

2011-10-13T22:27:00.000-04:00

This year I had birthday cheesecake!

I had a totally relaxing and craft filled birthday. I had a chance to play with my new darning foot for my sewing machine and attempted some free motion quilting. I need LOTS of practice.

Becky made dinner. Super yummy shrimp pasta and salad.

We listened to Pandora (did you know Pandora has 8 Halloween stations?) and inspired by Pinterest, we made glow stick jars, paper bag luminarias and we even carved pumpkins, thanks to $1.99 pumpkins at Aldi's. We are all a bunch of big kids :) I took photos, but the only one that turned out is the cheesecake photo above.

I love hanging out with my kids and I am blessed that they like hanging out with me! Makes me wish every day could be a birthday!

Spooky Little Quilt

2011-10-09T16:06:00.000-04:00

This truly is a spooky little quilt. You know how sometimes a project is doomed from the get-go? This is one of the them. Don't be fooled the cuteness of the pictures :)

The piecing went fast and easy because I used 6" squares. After everything was sewn together I realized that the quilt really needed some green. But I thought the "plus" pattern looked pretty cool. Then came the quilting. I thought I would do some diagonal lines, but things started going horribly wrong half way through. My walking foot was an epic fail. So I switched back to the vintage foot that came with the machine, and did some straight stitching along each seam. A bit better. I decided to give machine stitched binding a try and in theory it is an awesome idea. Parts of the binding are absolutely perfect and other parts not so much.

Hi Sophie.

In spite of all my mishaps in making this quilt, most of them disappeared after a fast trip through the washer and dryer. Once again, there is nothing like taking a warm, puckery quilt from the dryer and being able to say "I made a quilt".

Ruby

2011-10-04T21:31:00.000-04:00

I am having fun working on my Halloween Plus Quilt! As I am working on it, I am clueless as to what color thread to use to quilt it....any suggestions?

But I realized that I forgot to show you my baby Ruby quilt once it was finished.

The weather here has been gray and abysmal for the past week, but the sun was shining today. YAY!! I finally got a chance to take some pictures for you and to put in the shop.

The finished size of this quilt is 36" x 36" so it is perfect for a baby quilt, but I thought it would be awesome to use as a table topper too. I was really unsure about my choice of backing/binding fabric, but I think it ended up being a good choice. It doesn't compete with all of the cute patchwork fabric.

I also changed up my normal quilting style and quilted this with a diagonal grid. I tend to make "square" quilts, so I think the diagonal quilting adds a bit of extra interest.

I have almost a full jelly roll of Ruby that I am going to use to make something for ME!! I think I am going to make this. But it is going to have to wait until after the holidays. I definitely need to start sewing some lovely Christmas gifts. I am heading to Pinterest for inspiration. I may be up all night :)

Weekend Update

2011-10-02T18:12:00.000-04:00

The first weekend of October has been cold and rainy, so it has been perfect for hanging out in the sewing room and cutting fabric. I am making the "plus" quilt I told you about yesterday, and have finished cutting, laying out and labeling. When I was laying out the design, I realized that I probably should have added some green fabric to the mix, but I kind of like the vintage look of the quilt as is.

Most of the Halloween decorations are up, and I will be sharing photos as the light in my house allows. Dinner is cooking, the fireplace is going and I am watching The Big Bang Theory, which is my new favorite show. A wonderful Sunday afternoon.

The October Project

2011-10-01T17:09:00.000-04:00

Happy October everyone!! Can you believe it is October already? To me, October is the start of the holiday season. I love pulling out all of my Autumn/Halloween decorations and getting the house ready for the trick or treaters. But there is one thing missing. A quilt. So I am making one.

Here are the fabrics waiting to be cut into squares. I am still deciding what kind of quilt I want to make, and am really leaning towards a "plus" quilt. It satisfies my love of patchwork squares, and adds an extra design element into the mix. But my challenge is getting this quilt made within the next few weeks so we can use it during the month of October, so I definitely will be making a smaller version. Wish me luck :)

In The Sewing Room

2011-09-27T22:20:00.000-04:00

Here are some works in progress in my sewing room.

Here is my Ruby quilt top. I think Ruby may surpass Sugar Creek as my favorite fabric to work with. Red, aqua, soft green and gray! Love the color combo. I bought an aqua and gray on white polka dot for the backing and binding, but am second guessing myself.

This is a table runner made with a French General Rouenneries charm pack that has been sitting in my fabric stash for a few years. Since I took this photo, I have quilted it and almost have the binding finished. YAY!!

And this fabric container was just for fun. Kinda cute for a knitting project holder. Or maybe to hold fat quarters or charm packs? The fabric is from Joann's and I used a lightweight interfacing and some left over batting. I think next time I may use "Craft Fuse" in place of the interfacing to give the container a bit more structure.

Autumn Afternoon

2011-09-25T08:34:00.000-04:00

When I opened the door to add my groceries this is what the backseat of the car looked like yesterday afternoon. Some of my most favorite things! Mums and pumpkins and colored leaves. And what's that on the seat? Look closely....A quilt!! In case you were wondering why everything is in the backseat, there was a hay bale in the trunk! The car still has a faint farm smell to it, not mention hay everywhere.
When I opened the door to add my groceries this is what the backseat of the car looked like yesterday afternoon. Some of my most favorite things! Mums and pumpkins and colored leaves. And what's that on the seat? Look closely....A quilt!! In case you were wondering why everything is in the backseat, there was a hay bale in the trunk! The car still has a faint farm smell to it, not mention hay everywhere.

It was such a lovely afternoon. Lunch at the Tea House. A trip to the farm stand. Georgeous weather. Putting lights and decorations on the porch. It makes you wish every Saturday could be as nice!

Sugar Creek

2011-09-20T22:09:00.000-04:00

In between lots of birthday and anniversary celebrations this weekend, I finished up another cute little quilt. Yes, more Denyse Schmidt fabric. I absolutely love these prints!

But I did break out of my comfort zone and did some striped patchwork instead of my favorite squares. This quilt went together surprisingly fast, but I have to admit I still love my squares more :) What do you think?

I am working on a quilt with my "Ruby" fabric and am loving every second. Can't wait to show you! I am wishing there were more hours in the day, or that I did not require 8 hours of sleep because I have so many ideas for things I would like to make.

Aromatherapy

2011-09-16T22:47:00.000-04:00

Autumn is here. I am wearing a sweater and have a big pot of yummy chili simmering on the stove. I have a delicious candle burning in my new owl candle holder. Bundled up in a quilt while watching Jane Eyre. The perfect way to unwind and enjoy the start of the weekend.

Hope you all have a relaxing and happy weekend!

Quilts

2011-09-15T03:00:00.000-04:00

I love making quilts. I love that you are essentially making something that will wrap somebody in a warm and cushy hug. I love that a quilt is an heirloom that can passed to another generation, even if it is a little worn.

I love that quilts can be made in all sizes. Baby size. Lap Size. Picnic Size. I love how quilts are all warm and crinkly when they come out of the dryer.

I love that quilts can look like a piece of art. Or that they were stitched together from scraps of fabric and look homemade with love.

Both quilts are baby sized, approximately 40" x 40". The first quilt is made from this charm pack of vintage sheets, and backed with a vintage sheet. Binding is DSQuilts gingham. The second quilt is made with DSQuilts Sugar Creek and done with my favorite scrappy binding.

Both quilts are now available in my etsy shop :)

The Prize

2011-09-14T03:00:00.000-04:00

Way back at the beginning of summer, I won a gift certificate to The Fat Quarter Shop. I knew that I wanted to order a bunch of "Ruby" with it, but is wasn't in stock yet. If you knew me in real life you would know how hard it was for me to wait to use my certificate. I checked almost every day to see if it was available. And a few days ago it was. I love it!

Happy Little Cottage Industry

2011-09-12T03:00:00.000-04:00

Wow. A whole week has passed since I last posted! The weather has been soooooo dreary, and it is really hard to take photos in my house when it's not sunny! But I have been busy.....A few weeks ago I purchased some cute vintage sheet charm packs, not really knowing what I was going to use them for. They sat in a cute stack on my sewing table while I worked on the pillows for Becky's room.

I have been in a bit of a slump for quite some time. A job loss threw me for a loop, but in the long run I think it may have been a good thing. It was an office job with decent pay, but a miserable working atmosphere. I have since found a wonderful part time job, but the pay is not so wonderful. I love being home and I especially love having time to be creative. I have been moodling the idea of my own Etsy shop for quite some time so I could possibly earn some extra income doing something I love. My own happy little cottage industry! I have been quilting and sewing in order to stock my shop and I have loved every minute! I am hoping to open my "doors" within the next few weeks.

So back to the charm packs. I made a baby quilt and a sweet matching quilted pillow. The vintage linens are combined with crisp modern white. This reminds me of something that should be hanging on a clothes line out in the country. I am hoping it will soon be in a cute little one's nursery.

Then I bought some of the Sugar Creek fabric by Denyse Schmidt.

I loved playing with this fabric. It is adorable. I cut it into 5" squares, 2 1/2" squares and 3" strips, and the patterns stand up to any size.

Someone once said "Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life". I think they are right.

Dear Susan Branch ♥

2011-09-04T11:38:00.000-04:00

I have loved the work of Susan Branch from the first time I saw one her books in 1986. Being newly married and having a house of my own, I loved reading about fun and charming ways to be a homemaker. But what I really loved about Susan's books was her HANDWRITING! Oh my! I have always loved beautiful handwriting.

After seeing her first book, I was inspired to hand write recipe cards imitating her lovely handwriting because I ~~was~~ am dorky like that!

I have anxiously waited for each of her books and have happily collected them all. Each of them has been read several times and are dearly loved. So you can only imagine how happy I was to discover that Susan has a BLOG! Each of her posts are like a mini-book. Charming hand writing, drawings and lovely stories of her daily life on Martha's Vineyard. Susan is one of those people that you would love to have as a best friend. She cooks and sews and decorates and LOVES the holidays, and you can tell she is just plain fun to be around.

This is the link to her blog. Please go visit. You will have a smile on your face and a song in your heart for the rest of the day ♥

Daydream Pillows

2011-09-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

I had a ton of fabric leftover from the Daydream quilt, so I thought I would make a matching pillow for Becky's room.

I loved making the first one, so I decided to make another one.

And another.

Sophie likes them too.

I just kind of made these up as I went along. The fabrics were all from a charm pack and jelly roll, so I only had to cut the white fabric. I needed a little help with the envelope back, so I followed this tutorial. As I finished each pillow, it was instantly my favorite. Now I am not so sure.

I hope you all have a fun and happy Labor Day weekend!

The Summer of {quilt} Love

2011-08-31T06:00:00.043-04:00

What started on Memorial Day weekend as a "gee I think I would like to try quilting again" turned into a full blown love affair with quilting over the summer. First up was the red and aqua table runner that confirmed that "yes indeed, I think I like quilting".

Becky then asked if I would make her a quilt, which led to the purchase of the adorable Daydream fabric and the San Francisco Windows quilt top. Progress on this quilt was interrupted by the quilt along at P.S. I Quilt and three weeks later the completion of the Americana Cottage quilt. And winning a fabric gift card for participating! Quilting is becoming a part of my daily routine.

I added a blog list devoted to my favorite quilting blogs. And I finished Becky's super cute quilt ♥

Which led to the destruction of not one, but two sewing machines. So I tried hand quilting. I fell in love with Perle cotton and making hexagons.

Finally, I pulled out squares that were abandoned during my fall fling with knitting. I started cutting hundreds more 4" squares out of fabric in my stash. I added a dose of clean crisp white fabric and started stitching together Happy Little Quilt. It is true love.

Three quilts, one table runner and one pillow later, summer is now almost over and I cannot wait to cozy up with my colorful, happy projects!

The Teahouse

2011-08-29T06:00:00.004-04:00

The Teahouse at the Treehouse Gallery is my favorite spot for lunch during the summer. This house was built in 1850 and now is a gift shop filled with really cute housewares and collectibles. But if you walk around back you will find this delightful patio that feels like someone's back yard.

There are only a few tables surrounded by potted plants and herbs, and it is the perfect spot for an outdoor meal and a fruity sangria. The door leads to a side porch which has inside seating, and is so lovely in the winter. But in the summer, I am all about dining alfresco!

The food is so fresh and delicious and wonderful. The staff is so friendly and make you feel like family. My salad had gently sauteed chicken, with fresh greens, homegrown tomatoes, feta cheese and candied pecans, topped with the most delicious balsamic vinaigrette.

Becky's wrap was delicious, and was served with fresh fruit, and the cutest and tastiest tiny muffin. I have to admit, that even though this is a tea house, and serves tea and delicious baked items, I am always so full after lunch that I have never ordered dessert.

The weather was absolutely gorgeous and the kind that you savor knowing that fall is rapidly approaching. The gift shop was decked out in all things Halloween, and we spent most of our lunch deciding how to decorate the house for fall. We even bought a few things on our way home to get ready for the fall holidays. Call me crazy, but I can hardly wait :)

Pioneer Woman

2011-08-25T22:00:00.002-04:00

No not that Pioneer Woman. I spent today with no electricity. All day. We had a ginormous storm last night, which knocked out power to tens of thousands of my fellow neighbors. No electricity. All day. No computer. No internet. Just like a pioneer woman.

Guess what? I really didn't miss it. And I was productive. I cleaned my bathroom. Swept all the floors. Emptied the dishwasher. Dusted. Cleaned up fallen branches from the storm. I was surprised how much I was able to accomplish without ~~the internet~~ electricity.

Did some knitting. Ripped out the knitting. (But don't you think my stitch markers make this look like a charm bracelet?)

And opened some really happy mail!

Obviously since you are reading this post, my electricity is back. And I am grateful. There was no damage to my house. And for washing machines and coffee makers!

All Quiet on the Crafting Front

2011-08-24T10:33:00.001-04:00

I have had a temporary change in my work schedule this week, so crafting time has been limited. The knitting bug has hit again and I hope to share photos of my latest project soon!

Happy Little Quilt

2011-08-19T19:44:00.001-04:00

one year later....

and it's done! Happy Little Quilt!!!! This quilt really does make me happy. When I started cutting the squares last fall, I was in full on knitting mode and I quickly put the squares away and forgot about them. I pulled the squares out a few weeks ago, and started cutting more 4" squares to join them. This was totally a stash busting project.

Then I started chain piecing the squares together. Using my vintage machine was such a pleasure. Why did I not know about chain piecing? What a time saver. I basically just grabbed squares and sewed. I love the random placement of color! This is a larger lap size blanket. It is approximately 60" x 64" or 16 squares x 18 squares :) I quilted 1/4" away from each seam, though I had a bit of trouble in the middle of the quilt. I spray basted, but the middle did not hold.

For the backing, I used a vintage sheet. I am now on the hunt for vintage sheets. They are perfect because there is no piecing AND they are so affordable. The sheet above was $1.65 and I have lots of fabric leftover. And the binding!!! I am in LOVE with this binding. It is fabric leftover from a Christmas project, and I think it is perfect for this colorful, happy little quilt.

Summer Fun

2011-08-18T11:46:00.000-04:00

This is how I spent an entire day. I grabbed an inner tube

and drifted round and round on the lazy river.

Took a short break to snack on a sandwich and then it was off to the wave pool.

I got a kick out of the lady in the corner of this picture. I think she spent the entire day right in that spot getting an awesome tan, and relaxing on her inner tube when the waves were not in action. Her swimsuit was adorable too! I chose to be a teeny bit more active and actually rode the waves in the deep part of the pool. I felt like a kid again :)

I did NOT go on this. The day was devoted to total relaxation and enjoying the sun. It felt like we were on vacation even though we were only about an hour from home! We went through an entire bottle of sunscreen. We arrived when the park opened and left when it closed. I slept like a log when I got home!

Photography 101

2011-08-12T12:23:00.004-04:00

Wow! I loved having so many visitors yesterday! Thank you so much for leaving so many sweet comments! And thanks to Brenda at Cozy Little House for featuring me on her Friday Welcome Wagon!

The majority of comments and questions were about my photos, and lots of you wanted to know about my camera. I have always loved photography, and bought my first film SLR camera in high school and had fun learning how to use a completely manual camera.

But I LOVE LOVE LOVE digital cameras! I now use a Nikon D40 which was a Christmas gift a few years ago. I also have an inexpensive Kodak point and shoot digital which I almost always have in my purse when I am out and about. The photos on my blog are a combination of both cameras.
I just recently learned how to use the Nikon on manual, and my pictures have improved dramatically!

I am not an expert by any means. I just love to take pictures!! You do NOT need to spend a ton of money to get great photos. Just grab your camera AND

1. Turn OFF the flash. Take photos wherever you have an abundance of natural light. Most of my closeup pictures are taken outside because my house is so dark. I do get some strange looks from my neighbors. What is that lady taking a picture of now :)

2. Get close to your subject.

3. Learn whatever you can about your camera. An inexpensive point and shoot can take terrific photos if you follow 1 and 2, and play with the dial on your camera. Don't be afraid to experiment!

4. Take lots of photos of the same subject. Sometimes I take 20 pictures of the same thing from different angles just to get one good shot. And sometimes I am just lucky. :)

5. I use picnik to post process my photos. It is free, and relatively easy to use. I don't do alot to my photos. I usually just crop them, and increase the exposure so my photos look "brighter".

6. Look at photos on your favorite blogs and see what it is that you like about the photos. The composition? The subject matter? The colors?

7. Have fun!! This is the most important part. Photography is such a creative outlet, and you can take hundreds of photos and use the DELETE button as much as you want!

Please leave me a comment if you have any questions, and I will be happy to try to answer them for you!

The County Fair

2011-08-11T10:52:00.000-04:00

Scenes from our county fair. A glorious blue sky behind the ferris wheel. We ended up spending the evening. Eating our fill of funnel cakes and cotton candy. Listening to the entertainment. Watching people being flipped upside down on rides. Getting a henna tattoo with your daughter.

Enjoying the gorgeous end of the summer flowers.

I love visiting the animal barns. The 4-H kids are always so proud of their animals.

Baby pigs are adorable. The mama, not so much :)

For a city girl, it is fun to be a part of farm life for an evening. The county fair is always such a juxtaposition of country beauty and carnival atmosphere, and a reminder of small town America at it's best!

Flower Power

2011-08-10T06:00:00.005-04:00

Dear Trish, Mary and Alicia,

Thank you for introducing me to the joys of hexagons. While I was without a sewing machine, I started cutting little squares of fabric and then sewed and sewed and sewed. I did not want to go to work, I did not want to go to the grocery store, I did not want to make dinner and I did not want to do laundry.

Yours sincerely,
Debbie♥

It's Vintage

2011-08-08T06:00:00.002-04:00

This is my "new" vintage sewing machine. I love it. It sews like a dream. The stitches are beautiful. It barely makes a sound. It was given to me by a family friend who wasn't sure if it worked.

Well it does, and it is perfect for quilting. Quilt sandwiches glide right under the needle. My broken cheapo Walmart Singer is headed to the tree lawn, but the accessories are staying, as they fit this machine! YAY!

Remember these squares? I am using them to make a Posie Gets Cozy inspired patchwork quilt. It is a pleasure working on this quilt with my vintage machine. My seam allowances are exactly 1/4". Everything is straight. I am in quilting heaven.

Summer Afternoon

2011-08-04T06:00:00.005-04:00

I've always loved this quote by Henry James: "Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language."

I love the laid back feeling of summer afternoons. Time to relax on the porch with a library book and some hand stitching. A glass of iced coffee within easy reach. The sound of cicadas. Waiting for just the slightest breeze.

I am enjoying "Summer Rental". It really is the perfect summer read. I also have discovered that I love doing hand work. I have been hand stitching this project all week and I love it. It's not ready for it's ta-dah moment, but I thought I would share a little of what I have been working on.

I hope that you all are enjoying a few summer afternoons of your own!

Lazy Days of Summer

2011-08-02T14:18:00.001-04:00

As I was working with photos from my camera, I had put them all in my July 2011 folder. And then realized that it is August and that I haven't posted here in over a week!

The summer is flying by at an alarming rate. This past week has been spent celebrating the birthdays of several family members, learning a new skill (hand quilting), reading and dreaming up a new project. I have to admit I have been online for HOURS in the evenings soaking up all the inspiration in blogland!

I have also discovered PINTEREST. Oh dear. Another way to ~~waste~~ spend hours on the interweb!
I am a visual person, and love being inspired by beautiful photographs. There is a link on my sidebar if you would like to ~~waste lots of time~~ follow me.

Oh My Stars!

2011-07-21T16:44:00.000-04:00

Oh My Stars! The heat index is something like 105 degrees. It is way too hot to work with lots of fabric. I turned the A/C in the craft room on full power, and armed with my rotary cutter and lots of cute scraps I started making these.

Oh My Wonky Stars! I almost forgot about the heat while making these. They are so much fun! I am surprised that I like these stars so much because I normally like everything straight and balanced and even, and not even a teeny bit wonky. I have a project in mind to use these for and will post pictures as I go.

Oh My Stars! It is my son's 25th birthday today. Happy Birthday Gavin. I cannot believe that I have a 25 year old!! When did this happen. Where did all the years go? To beat the heat, I have made a very large batch of frozen pina coladas. We are going out to dinner because it just too hot to cook. There are cupcakes in the fridge, and when Gavin opens his gifts, we are going to make ice cream. Gavin asked for one after watching too many episodes of Iron Chef. I can only imagine what flavors of ice cream he will dream up.

What A Day For A Daydream

2011-07-19T14:23:00.000-04:00

Daydream. Isn't the binding adorable?

I wasn't sure if I would ever finish this quilt. Last week was a no-sew zone at Happy Little Cottage due to various and sundry sewing machine malfunctions. It is amazing that a sewing machine can make a grown woman cry.

But this finished quilt makes me very happy!

I finally adjusted the good old Singer and was able to finish. I was convinced that I wanted to learn to stipple, but I think I may have gotten over that desire after dropping off my aunt's sewing machine at the repair shop AND discovering Red Pepper Quilts. Seriously, how awesome are her quilts. I love the simplicity of the straight quilting and how it really lets the fabric and patchwork shine!

Summer Morning

2011-07-10T11:44:00.000-04:00

This is what's happening on my porch this morning. A little blog reading, coffee drinking, list making, and knitting. There is nothing better than a front porch on a hot summer morning!

Happy Mail

2011-07-07T16:39:00.000-04:00

These were in my mailbox today! All of these incredibly cute things were handcrafted for me by the incredibly talented Trish at Notes of Sincerity as part of Pay It Forward.

This mug rug will definitely be put to daily use, as I usually have either a cup of coffee or a glass of iced coffee by my side. Isn't her handwriting awesome?! The mini bunting is too cute for words, and I am looking for the perfect spot to hang it. And the fabric!! Aqua, red and white!!!! YAY!! And I am a huge Mary Engelbreit fan, so the card was perfect. Thank you Trish, so so much. You made my day!

Lap of Luxury

2011-07-05T18:14:00.000-04:00

I hope all of you had a terrific long holiday weekend!
I had one of the best holiday weekends that I have had in a long time! I finished Americana Cottage

and I won second prize in the Synchronized Squares Quilt Along. A $75.00 gift certificate to The Fat Quarter Shop! Happy Dance!!

Spent some time at the park, watching the boats go by and soaking in the lovely weather.

Oh, but the 4th of July. I spent a mother/daughter getaway at a gorgeous hotel! Big squishy beds with white down comforters, air conditioning, gorgeous bathroom with granite countertops , an amazing showerhead and wonderful smelling bath potions. We spent most of our time at the gorgeous pool, and ate all of our meals on the outdoor patio by a tranquil fountain. We watched the fireworks over the city that evening. Even though we only spent one night, it seemed like we were away for a week. Loved every second of spending time with my sweet girl!

P.S. I forgot my camera, but thought I would share lots of pictures of my quilt :)

Summer Love

2011-07-01T06:00:00.003-04:00

During the summer months I am ADDICTED to iced coffee, and have been known to stop twice a day at McDonald's (or during my full time job days) at Starbucks. Just can't get enough of the stuff. I had tried making it at home the only way I could think of. Brew a pot of coffee. Put it in the refrigerator. Pour over ice and add cream and sugar. But it was always weak and couldn't hold a candle to the elixir that is Starbucks.

A week or two ago, The Pioneer Woman posted a recipe for Iced Coffee. Hmmmm. Interesting. You pour cold water over the coffee and let it sit for hours. So I gave it a try. And I made a huge mess. But the resulting coffee was delicious. It was better than Starbucks.

I starting googling cold brew coffee and discovered that there is a french press coffee maker designed specifically for cold brew coffee. I wanted one. It was $40.00 on Amazon. Not in the budget.

This afternoon while at Target to pick up a few essentials, I passed the clearance row, and there sat ONE lonely french press coffee maker. The same brand as on Amazon. And it was $19.00.

I am rationalizing that I will recoup my investment in about one week. No more drive thru coffee for me. I am using this recipe, tripled. If you've never tried Iced Coffee, you should make a batch to keep you going over the long holiday weekend. You might want to grab a can of sweetened condensed milk while you're at it.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Americana Cottage

2011-06-29T06:00:00.011-04:00

I did it. I finished my quilt top for the Synchronized Squares Quilt Along. And I ♥ it. Becky decided it should be called Americana Cottage and I could not agree more. This is the second quilt top I have finished in a month, which boggles my mind. Happy Little Cottage has turned into a quilting blog during the month of June :). I absolutely loved piecing this quilt!

I am still waiting for the darning foot and plate that I ordered for my sewing machine, so it is definitely going to take me awhile to actually finish both quilts.

Even the binding is adorable. I really love these fabrics.

Saturday Morning Stitching

2011-06-25T14:41:00.002-04:00

This morning has been the perfect Saturday morning. I slept in just for a teensy bit, got up and made myself a latte and headed to the craft room.

I finished cutting most of the squares for my synchronized squares quilt, and set to work sewing. This pattern is so much fun. The mixing and matching of the squares is endlessly entertaining. Of course I always have to get ahead of myself and see how things will come together, so above you can see the initial large square, then the quarter square and then a completed block. This is turning out so stinkin' cute I can hardly stand it!!

Hope you are all having as close to a perfect Saturday as possible!

TGIF

2011-06-24T18:00:00.000-04:00

Another week has flown by, and I have to admit I am glad it's the weekend.

I am looking forward to working on my Synchronized Squares Quilt Along. I am already behind (no surprise there if you know me) and need to finish cutting out squares, and then sewing them all together.

If the weather cooperates I may pack a lunch, grab a book and go to the beach or to the park. I can pretend that I am on a mini vacation :)

I only had one comment on the Pay It Forward giveaway, so Robin at My Nest Of Yarn and Buttons, you will receive all three items!! Thanks for playing, and I hope you are able to Pay It Forward to three other ladies!

Pay It Forward - Are You In?

2011-06-22T06:00:00.005-04:00

I was chosen by Trish at Notes of Sincerity as one of her "Pay It Forward" recipients.  I am so excited to see what she creates! You need to check out her blog to see her fabulous quilts!

OK, so here's the deal...I have 365 days to send you your special  something. When you receive my gift made especially for you, you need to  then "pay it forward" and make something special for three other  people...and on it goes.... 

And now it's my turn to pay it forward to three of you!

If you are interested, please leave me a comment. Please tell me about your perfect craft and/or hobby weekend and you will be in the drawing!

I will post my three people on Friday June 24th.

Edited to add: Comments are now closed.

Daydream Quilt Top

2011-06-20T06:00:00.008-04:00

Here is the finished "Daydream" quilt top. This is my first attempt at making blocks and using sashing, and I have learned that precise cutting and sewing are reeeaaaalllly important. I can see lots of boo-boos, but I am guessing that once I get this all quilted it probably won't make much of a difference. I LOVE the border on the quilt. I think this is my favorite part!

I am crazy about the fabric that Becky chose for the back of the quilt. We found this at Joann's and really thought the bold graphic was still vintage enough for the "cottage" feel of the quilt. I don't think I mentioned where I found the pattern I am using. It is by sweetjane and you can buy it on her etsy shop. I am no way affiliated, I just really like her patterns.

I am ordering a free motion foot for my sewing machine and am going to try to teach myself how to stipple. I will wait to actually do the quilting until I am totally comfortable with stippling. How long will it take me to learn?

Quilt A Long

2011-06-16T06:00:00.004-04:00

Rachel over at P.S. I Quilt is hosting a quiltalong.

I recently bought this fabric and think it will be perfect for the quilt she is going to show us how to make.

I can hardly wait to get started!

Tuesday

2011-06-14T15:35:00.002-04:00

Today is such a gorgeous day. The weather is cool and crisp with not a touch of humidity! Perfect.

I should be outside working in the yard, and planting unplanted plants, but if you live in northeast Ohio and within a mile of Lake Erie, you are cursed with swarms of insects known as muffleheads aka canadian soldiers aka midges. They are everywhere.

So while deciding how to spend this gorgeous day, I put on a pot of coffee and finished cleaning the kitchen. I thought I heard water dripping, but thought maybe the neighbors were watering their plants. Until I felt water under my feet. A burst pipe. Clean up on aisle 4.

Not to be deterred by insects or burst pipes I decided to head to the craft room and work on my quilt.

Can I just say I am really loving this whole patchwork process. The hum of the machine. The steam from the iron. Cutting strips and squares of gorgeous fabric. Watching as the squares become a gorgeous quilt top.
I finished the quilt top this afternoon and now have to make some floor room so I can lay out the backing and get everything put together.

Daydream

2011-06-08T06:00:00.007-04:00

I have spent the past few weeks dreaming about making a quilt, and the fabric that I am going to use arrived in the mail today. It is called Daydream. Perfect!

As much as I adore my beloved aqua, red and white color scheme, I am over the moon with these colors. Yummy blues, and corals, and chocolate brown and spring green! I am going to pair all of the color with white. I can hardly wait to get started.

This is the first time I have used precut fabric. I love the name of these precuts. Jelly Roll. ♥ I want to leave this on my sewing table for awhile so I can enjoy the adorableness!!

all photos courtesy of hard days knit (my sweet daughter)

Polka Dots and Patchwork Squares

2011-06-06T06:00:00.007-04:00

In an attempt to pretty up the craft room, I decided my sewing machine cover was in dire need of replacing. So I decided to make a new one. I knew that I wanted to add some patchwork, and I wanted to practice making binding in anticipation of making another quilt.

I read a few tutorials online about making a sewing machine cover, and then came up with my own design. Basically all you have to do is measure the width of your machine (mine was 16") and then measure from the bottom of the front to the bottom of the back (mine was 27"). Basically you will be making a rectangle of that size, adding whatever details you would like. I used cute ribbon as ties on the side. The picture above is the front of my cover.

And this is the back. I used leftover fabric from other projects. I am so loving this combo of red, green, aqua and white. I may not sew with any other colors from now on. :)

My Best Recipes

2011-06-03T00:00:00.003-04:00

Can the cover of this cookbook be any cuter? I adore it's kitcshy vintage vibe, but what I love even more are the memories that this book holds. This cookbook was published in 1969 as a fundraiser for the Central Baptist Church in Jamestown, Rhode Island. I spent the first 9 years of my life there, and this cookbook holds memories of so many people who were a part of my childhood.

There are recipes contributed by my grandfather (who is no longer with us and who taught me to tie my shoes), my mom's aunt (one of my most favorite people ever), my 3rd grade teacher (who I adored) and several members of the small island community whose recipes have become favorites.

I have made this banana bread since I was 12 years old and my Mom first let me have free reign in the kitchen. It is so delicious, freezes well and it is a great way to use up those over ripe bananas that are lingering on your counter. Make sure you preheat your oven, and grease and flour your loaf pan (or use baking spray).

Your family will thank you.

Memorial Day Weekend Table Runner

2011-06-01T20:22:00.004-04:00

This is my Memorial Day Weekend runner. I am not sure where the sudden desire to quilt came from, but once it started I headed to blogland and flickr for inspiration.

I headed to the craftroom, and dug through my fabric and set to work. I am not sure if there is anything more satisfying than cutting lots of happy little squares of fabric. I love squares.
♥ Especially red, aqua and white squares.

I spent pleasurable afternoon making the quilt top. The next day I made the quilt sandwich, and started quilting. I bought a walking foot for my sewing machine earlier in the week, and it made the quilting so much easier. I quilted over the next few days, and then set to work making the binding strip and sewing it on. I hand stitched the back of the binding, which I found strangely satisfying.

I am really happy with the finished runner. I love my table. Flowers in a mason jar, and candle holders from Ikea. It makes me smile every time I walk into my dining room. I love when a project turns out exactly as you pictured it in your mind.

In the Summertime

2011-05-30T20:45:00.001-04:00

It's Memorial Day. I know it is Memorial Day, because along with flags flying,

my peonies are in bloom!

This weekend has been totally laid back and relaxing. I spent time doing things I enjoyed, like

Planting.

The zinnia seeds have sprouted, and are ready to be planted.

These still need to be planted. My pots are washed and ready to go,

but I need more potting soil :)

Grilling.

Nothing better than burgers and hot dogs on the grill. YUM!

I have to admit that I cooked ribs in the crockpot today. Much easier.

One of the best parts of the weekend is hanging out with this cute little puppy ♥.

I also spent some time this weekend quilting! Will share more later this week.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend, and thanks to all of the

men and women who serve and protect our country,

and to Becky, who provided all of the photos in today's post!

Rain Delay

2011-05-19T09:53:00.001-04:00

These are the only things that are in bloom in my yard right now. My lilacs have come and gone, and I loved picking bunches of them to bring in the house. They smell divine! I was able to sneak outside to take a few pictures during the few minutes of sunshine we have experienced in northeast Ohio during the past few months. I have flats of flowers patiently waiting to be planted, and I can hardly wait to spend a day in the yard. I cannot wait for the "rain delay" to be over!

This the progress of my peony plants. They are usually spectacular over Memorial Day weekend, and I look forward to their blooms all winter long. BUT! What's with the ants? They are covered with them every year. I would love to bring some of the blooms indoors but that means that the ants come along with them. Are any of you peony experts? Is there anything I can do about the ants? Please help! :)

Spring Is In The Air

2011-03-18T00:01:00.004-04:00

In a change from my recent obsession with cupcake/cake related photos, look what I found in my backyard! The yard is a hot mess of leaves and debris, but seeing the first flowers of spring always makes me excited.

It was 65 degrees today, and it felt so wonderful. It was nice being outside wearing only a sweater.

I know I have a few months until I can plant anything outside, but I am looking forward to getting the yard cleaned up, and seeing what perennials are going to bloom again this spring.

It won't be long until I can wear my beloved flip flops. I am in the market for a new pair this year and would love to find a pair that is cute and comfortable. Any suggestions?

March 17th

2011-03-17T10:21:00.002-04:00

Wishing you a rainbow
For sunlight after showers—
Miles and miles of Irish smiles
For golden happy hours—
Shamrocks at your doorway
For luck and laughter too,
And a host of friends that never ends
Each day your whole life through!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

Birthday Cake

2011-03-06T20:58:00.002-05:00

photo courtesy of the birthday girl

The story of the cake.

Conversation between the birthday girl and her mother.
Me: What kind of cake do you want for your birthday?
BG: (hopefully) A delicious store bought cake.
Me: (somewhat dejectedly) No. I mean what kind of cake do you want me to bake for you?
BG: Yellow cake with chocolate frosting.

The day of the baking of the cake.
Me: What kind of chocolate frosting would you like? Buttercream? Fudge?
BG: The kind from the can.

Argh!! I guess this is what years of being a working mom leads to. Store bought cake? Canned frosting?
Happy 20th Birthday Becky! I love you.

Cheerful

2011-03-01T12:51:00.001-05:00

I am so happy to say hello to March. We are that much closer to Spring, and even more important for me, that much closer to setting our clocks ahead. Oh how I crave that extra daylight! Makes me very happy. So while we are waiting for sunshine and warm weather, I thought I would share some cheerful things.

Cupcake liners in polka dot and gingham. These put a huge smile on my face when I saw them at Michael's. I was even happier when I used my 40% off coupon to buy them. These are what I call an affordable luxury.

I made this crochet hook holder for Becky using fabric on found on clearance last summer, some pink gingham and this orange polka dot ribbon. Makes me smile!

I am thinking this would also work for double point knitting needles too. I may have to make another one.

Making things with bright, cheerful colors is such a happy way to spend the last few weeks of winter!

Everyday Artist

2011-02-27T10:29:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite books is Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach. If you have never read it, I highly recommend it. This morning, I was reading one of the entries and it really struck a chord. She wrote about being an artist of the everyday.

You are an artist if you grow flowers in your yard.

You are an artist if you bake and frost cupcakes. Especially if you put sprinkles on top.

You are an artist if you quilt.

You are an artist if you sew.

You are an artist if you pick out yummy food for your family at the grocery store.

You are an artist if you take photos.

You are an artist if you knit.

There are so many moments in an ordinary day to be artistic. I think it makes life so much more enjoyable to look for those opportunities to be creative. I love being an artist of the everyday!

Winter

2011-02-21T09:52:00.001-05:00

Last night it decided to snow. And then it decided to rain, and then rain some more, and then freeze.

So I decided to bake chocolate chip cookies and make caramel corn.

But this morning, I had to scrape an inch of ice off the car. My supervisor from work called while I was scraping, and said there was no power at work. So of course the first thing I do is grab my camera and take pictures.

I am still not sure if I have to work, so while the car finished thawing, I fixed myself a latte and talked to my Mom and Dad who are vacationing in sunny Florida. I hope they bring some sunshine home with them.

Edited to add: No power at work means an unexpected holiday!! Off to the craft room...

Happy Little Projects

2011-02-14T06:00:00.013-05:00

In honor of Valentine's Day I thought I would share a few projects that I really loved making.

Becky asked me months ago to make her a "fortune cookie" bag for her sock projects. She chose the floral fabric a few months ago, and I bought the pink gingham a few days ago, set up the sewing machine and got to work. This took maybe an half an hour tops, once I figured out exactly how to sew it up to make a pyramid shape. Very clever and lots of fun. I followed this tutorial. I love the combo of the floral and the sweet pink gingham.

This has to be the cutest and easiest thing I have ever made. Why is it that anything really small is so cute? OK. So these are just paper diamond shapes, folded in half over cotton string. I made a diamond template that was about 3" tall and 1 1/4" wide, and traced the template onto different scraps of paper. I cut out the flags while watching TV. I then arranged them on about a 3' piece of string, and used good old Elmer's glue to glue them on. It is hanging from a shelf on Becky's desk and makes me smile every time I see it. I think it makes her smile too!

Wishing you a very Happy Valentine's Day filled with hugs, flowers and chocolate!

Road Trippin'

2011-02-13T09:15:00.000-05:00

I am such a lucky Mom. I love the fact the Becky likes to spend time with me and that we have fun together. One of the true joys of grown children is that they can also be your friend! We planned a road trip to Pittsburgh to go to the Knit and Crochet festival.We stopped for breakfast at George's and filled up on coffee, eggs, toast and hashbrowns.
It's always a bit of a gamble planning a road trip in February, but we set off early in the morning and the weather tried to cooperate. We made it to the festival and had fun looking at all the beautiful yarns, rovings and gorgeous samples. Becky picked up some really PINK sock yarn and handmade needles.
Then we made these

They are pins done with this really cool needle felting machine. It looked like a sewing machine, but had a special attachment that "felted" almost anything you put underneath it. Loved making these!

Our next stop

I get ridiculously excited every time I see that blue and yellow sign!

I usually am attraced to the bedrooms, but this trip I loved the living rooms. The soft blue paint was gorgeous! Love the white coffee table! And I bought the chandelier on the last trip but it is still in the box.

Red, white and blue. LOVE. See the little heart shaped pillow? Becky bought one for her room. $4.99!!

Swedish meatballs for lunch. EVERY TIME we go.

Some red and white gingham. I love the kitchen stuff!

And our cart at the end of the day. Well at least one side of the cart!

I loved every minute of this day!

Inspired.

2011-02-06T10:40:00.001-05:00

Since my last post I have been in a little bit of a crafting funk. The cute mitten down there? Frogged. It was way too small. The sock further down? Also ripped. Got to the gusset and my circular needle snapped. Can you just see stitches unravelring everywhere {sob}. Time to put the knitting down and do something else.

But what?

I started browsing my favorite blogs and came across this cool tutorial. Hmmmm. Scrapbook paper? Check. Stamps? A drawer full. Embellishments? A box full.Canvas and Paint? A quick trip to Pat Catan's and just a few dollars.

This was so much fun to make. And the best part was Mod Podge. I really haven't used paint or Mod Podge and what a blast to take a brush and paint all over a canvas! I am delighted that I have found a way to use my craft supplies that have been collecting dust. And the bright colors are so cheerful to work with. My inner artist has been released! LOL.

Be Warm Inside and Out

2011-01-25T11:01:00.003-05:00

It has been freezing cold all week. It makes January a very long month. The couch potato tendencies are setting in big time.

In an effort to beat the cold, we have been wrapped up in quilts and snuggies in the evenings. Hot chai lattes have been the drink of choice and soup has been on the dinner menu very frequently. I have a stack of DVDs from the library and spent Sunday afternoon watching Lost in Austen. I loved it and highly recommend it to any Jane Austen fans. I also watched (again) Miss Potter. Lovely!

With warmth in mind (and being inspired by her), I started knitting these mittens. The pattern is called Chevron Love, and I purchased it last winter at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival, which we are hoping to go to again this year along with a stop at Ikea. Crossing fingers that there is no snow that weekend!

The Happy Tree

2011-01-10T00:00:00.001-05:00

I am one of those people who's least favorite day of the year is December 26th. I hate the thought of Christmas being over, and I REALLY hate taking down the Christmas tree. After the sparkling lights and cheerful colors of my decorations, my house always feels empty and dark. So this year, Becky and I decided to put up a small tree by the fireplace and decorate it for Valentine's Day, but to me it is just a Happy Tree.

The ribbon and most of the decorations are from our Christmas tree. But check out that cute owl! He is from a kit that we bought for $1.00 at Pat Catan's. I totally love how the tree brightens the living room, and it is small enough that it isn't in the way. I think this adorable tree will keep us happy through January and February, and then who knows. Maybe an Easter tree????

Design on a Dime

2011-01-09T01:16:00.002-05:00

Now that the holidays are over I want to get some projects going to make the winter seem just a teeny bit shorter. I have wanted to "cottage" up my living room and dining room for the longest time, and thought I would start by making curtains for these rooms. I am undecided between these two fabrics though I am leaning toward the check. I LOVE red gingham.

I have a LOT of oak woodwork that I am absolutely forbidden to go near with a paintbrush that may or may not have white paint on it. (What is it with men and their love for natural wood?) My house is old, and the woodwork, while it being original oak, blah blah blah, just eats up any light that wants to be in these rooms. So, I am going to use color and white to try to make things light, cozy and cottagey. I am really drawn to rooms that look like this and like this and this.

After I make the curtains, I really want to attempt to slipcover my sofa. During an episode of what could have only been insanity, I chose a red chenille sofa. Doggie claws are not kind to chenille, and the red I chose is more goth inspired rather than a cheerful cottage red. I have something like this in mind. Done in something machine washable since we are not a tidy family.

Since my budget is seriously close to being only a dime, I am going to have to do this in stages, but I have all winter. Right?

Life In Grace

2011-01-04T12:09:00.000-05:00

I am joining the group of wonderful bloggers who are joining together to wish Edie a Happy Birthday.

This is the photo that introduced me to Edie and her wonderful blog. She is an incredible mom, wife, friend and decorator. She inspires us all with her blog and I hope to add just a bit of joy to her special day.
So Edie, here's wishing you a very Happy Birthday and a big Thank You!

Favorite Things: Christmas 2010 Edition

2011-01-02T12:00:00.005-05:00

Christmas 2010 came and went in a blink and these are the moments I want to remember.

Seeing Straight No Chaser at Playhouse Square.

Impromptu shopping trips and lunches at Cheesecake Factory.

Listening to Christmas music 24/7.

Hallmark movie channel.

Reindeer Chow.

More trips to Target than I can count.

Driving around in Becky's mean green machine.

Sledding at Marcy's.

Our outdoor lights in the snow.

Spending lots of time with my kids.

Having time to enjoy it!

My One Little Word

2011-01-01T14:34:00.002-05:00

A popular idea through the blogosphere is One Little Word that was started by Ali Edwards.
My word for 2011 is DO. I would like to change the sign on my blog to read Get Excited and Do Things! I spend a lot of time being inspired by so many things I see on Ravelry and Flickr, and obviously all of the blogs I love to read, and this is my year to take action and actually DO more of the things that I am interested in.

First project of the new year is knitting a pair of socks using the gorgeous yarn Becky gave me for Christmas.

I am still working on my Birthday List, and I am determined to DO all of these things during 2011. Stay tuned!

50

2010-10-13T00:00:00.008-04:00

Today is my 50th birthday. I am not sure how I feel about this. I mean I love birthdays, but I wasn't happy about receiving an invitation to join AARP. I am officially a Golden Girl. I somehow don't feel like I am old enough to be 50. Does that make sense? It's just a number, right? So bring on the birthday cake! I think I can handle 50 candles.

I've been thinking about some of the things I would like to do or accomplish during the next year, so I thought I would see if I come up with 50 things. Here it goes.

Walk everyday for exercise.
Be positive.
Find a job I love.
Spend lots of time with my family.
Be a better cook.
Figure out how to bake the perfect brownie.
Be more loving.
Paint.
Plant hydrangea bushes.
Drink more water.
Take more road trips.
Learn yoga.
Stop procrastinating.
Be grateful.
Make a difference in people's lives.
Live in the moment.
Do something creative everyday.
Take a dance class.
Master Photoshop.
Take more photos.
Give more hugs.
Live in the moment.
Decorate the house for every holiday.

Make every day a special day.
I think if I can just do this each day, I will be a happy girl.

October Delights

2010-10-06T13:55:00.001-04:00

Pumpkins. I absolutely adore pumpkins. To me they are THE symbol of October. Especially when accompanied by hay bales, mums and cute hand made scarecrows.

Candy Corn. Not really for how they taste, but for the cute color combination. Thank you to the candy maker who first combined these colors. Oh, and by the way, have you ever eaten "ghetto" Snickers? You eat a candy corn and a roasted peanut at the same time and it tastes like a Snicker candy bar. Dare you to try it.

Sweaters, or should I say cardigans. They sit so patiently all summer waiting for the first cold front to come through. Can you tell I love Halloween colors :)

Chick Flicks. Cold and rainy weekends are no match for watching chick flicks while knitting. Hot cocoa and popcorn optional.

What things make you happy during the fall?

Hello October!

2010-10-01T00:00:00.004-04:00

October 1st is always the start of the holiday season for me. This is absolutely my favorite time of the year. My birthday is in October. Halloween and my parents' anniversary is on October 31st (yes, they got married on Halloween!). Next is our very traditional Thanksgiving, and then we get to officially listen to Christmas music and start the countdown!

I love dragging the boxes up from the basement and deciding what I am going to use to decorate with for this year's holiday. Becky loves decorating along with me which makes it even more fun! Everything you see in these photos came from Target. I cannot go into Target without coming out with something cute and adorable (see the reference to Becky). The tins are actually luminarias which we light almost every night during October.

It must be the little kid in me that doesn't like the scary and creepy Halloween decorations. I can't wait for the next nice weather weekend to go to the pumpkin patch to pick out pumpkins, go for a hayride and drink apple cider. Keeping fingers crossed.