Donna's World

A New Beginning

2010-08-29T22:27:00.000-04:00

Ready or not, it was time to take Steven to college yesterday. His girlfriend Brooke went along, and Rachel brought a friend as well. It was a bit of a stressful day; I think everyone's nerves were a bit on edge. We got him settled in and saying goodbye was anything but easy! It was hard to come home and lock the doors and turn out the outside lights...I'm used to leaving them on for him because he usually came in after we'd gone to bed. A bit quieter around here, that's for sure. I know he'll do well, he's a good kid and I have every confidence in his ability to succeed!

Steven walking us to our car.....a funeral march couldn't have been any more somber!

Steven and his sweetheart!

Having Brooke along made it easier/harder ..... but I'm glad she came with us.

Here's the moving crew. They unpacked all his clothes into his dresser and his closet; I made up his bed and unpacked snack stuff and such onto his shelves. He pretty much got to sit back and supervise! I think he was in overload mode anyway, so it was all good!

Pretty in Pink!

2010-08-22T22:20:00.004-04:00

I am absolutely head-over-heels in love with this little pink bundle; and I haven't even officially met her yet! My beautiful new grand-daughter Ryleigh Emma Nye.

And just when you thought it couldn't get any cuter.....look at this!!! What do you think is going through his little 15 month old mind?

Wendy's Quilt

2010-08-21T19:39:00.005-04:00

One of the reasons I didn't blog this spring is that I was busy raising money for our Relay for Life team. I wasn't afraid to resort to bribery, so I offered to give a handmade quilt to a winner by random drawing from folks who donated to my effort. Then I got such a tremendous response from folks all over.... real life friends, family, and most amazingly, to me, at least, from "virtual" friends. My Farmville neighbors on Facebook that don't know me from Adam! So I decided I'd give away three quilts. One for each group. The first went to a virtual friend, and was won by my very first Farmville neighbor Georgia who lives in Arizona.

The second quilt was to go to a "real life" friend and was won by Wendy, a member of my monthly Wednesday night Stampin' Up Club (boy, we have fun!). My sister-in-law clued me in that Wendy loves Halloween, so I remembered this fun layer cake fabric pack I had been gifted and really never knew what to do with .... ta-da, perfect for Wendy's quilt! Just presented it to her last week and it was a hit!

The last of the three give-away quilts was to go to a family member and was won by my best friend and little brother, Jay. I haven't started this one yet but know exactly what I want to do. His birthday is in November and it WILL be done in time. (That is my new mantra!)

Well, how's that for trying to catch up: three posts in one day!!

Remember the baby bunny....?

2010-08-21T19:28:00.005-04:00

Back in the spring, I had posted about my daughter bringing home a little black baby bunny. And that he looked lonely and I thought he needed a friend. So she brought home his brother. The Vo-ag teacher said it was a boy, really, she did !! They did get around to some antics that you wouldn't expect from two boy bunnies, but I did some research, and it said it was normal. I came home from work one day to find that the white bunny had pulled out almost all of it's fur and lined the sleeping area of the hutch with it..... hmmmm .......... what could that mean? The next afternoon, I got a frantic phone call from my daughter: "Mom, we have a problem!" (I love that "we", don't you?!!) "What kind of a problem?" I asked ... "We have baby bunnies!!!" she answered! Oh, my. Now what?!!

So the picture shows what you get when you aren't sure of the gender of your furry little friends. Daddy rabbit was immediately quarantined to his own hutch. Poor guy, he looks at me like "What did I do?!!"

So pictured are three week old baby bunnies, the two of the litter of four that survived. I'm not sure what their future holds. Daughter says that they're keepers but I am thinking not. We'll see. 'Cause if one of them is a boy, well, here we go again!

Ryleigh Emma

2010-08-21T18:59:00.002-04:00

Wow, I can't believe I haven't touched this blog for over five months! Okay, I'll admit, I discovered Facebook and the rest is history. But doesn't the birth of a new grandchild certainly warrant a blog post? I think it does!!

So Miss Ryleigh Emma arrived Thursday night, August 19th, at 10:06 p.m. Pacific time. Which means a 2 a.m. phone call to the East coast. But that's okay; those are the BEST kind of middle-of-the-night calls. Her arrival required an emergency c-section but both mother and baby are doing great. They are expected to go home tomorrow morning. I'd give anything to be out there helping right now, as the c-section certainly puts a different twist on things; like no picking up the 15 month old. But my plane ticket says September 25th, my youngest son leaves for college next weekend and I'm needed here on the homefront. In the meanwhile, I hope they know I'm there in spirit and do what I can with diapers.com! (Shipment should arrive Tuesday BTW!)

Thanks for letting me share our latest addition. I know .... she's perfect!!

New family member!

2010-03-27T13:37:00.003-04:00

My youngest child has the art of manipulation down to a science. I can count the number of times I've said "NO" to that girl on one hand and have several fingers left over! So she asked if she could bring a baby rabbit home from her school's
Vo-Ag class. My hesitation in answering apparantly spoke volumes to her because she immediately took it as a "yes"!

Now, mind you, I love animals, wouldn't trade my dogs for anything, and the little hamster we took in a couple of months ago is too, too cute...but another pet? She's only home one more year and then she'll be off to college and then who'll be taking care of these creatures of hers? Oh, who am I kidding, who takes care of them now?!!

And so, meet Fitzgerald! He is absolutely adorable. So, so, so soft...loves to be held and cuddled. Looked so lonely in his cage that I found myself asking her if he had a brother who might come live with him so he has a playmate! Lift my bangs...it says "sucker" across my forehead!

Snow, Snow, Snow, Snow and MORE SNOW!!!

2010-02-10T18:01:00.002-05:00

Will it ever end?
The phone just rang...automated message from Upper Adams School District:
"Due to the weather, school will be closed tomorrow."
They were all ready scheduled to be off Friday and Monday, so they won't go back until next Tuesday.

DQS8

2010-02-08T09:37:00.001-05:00

DQS8
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Top is done so I'd consider this a bit over half finished. Will need to piece the backing as I started with a fat quarter bundle and none of them are large enough...decide on what to bind with, and how I want to quilt it. Probably just stippled; it's got a lot of seams! Mail deadline is March 1st, so I'm doing okay!

Boys will be boys!

2010-02-07T23:25:00.003-05:00

Why do males constantly feel it's necessary to mark their territory or prove their masculinity or whatever makes otherwise normally sane people attack each other and threaten to drop the other to the ground?!!

Steven was humbly shown that 30 isn't old ... and that his big brother can still take him!

DQS8

2010-02-07T23:16:00.001-05:00

DQS8
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

A sneak peek at what I'm doing for this round of the doll quilt swap. My partner (who shall remain a secret) indicated she liked contemporary fabrics. These are from the Amy Butler daisy chain line. A border tomorrow then I can decide how I want to quilt it. It was, all in all, a productive weekend.

Bee Crazy Swap Block

2010-02-02T20:12:00.001-05:00

Bee Crazy Mary February
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

So I had a rare four day weekend....spent a good deal of it sewing. Had a couple of swaps to get done, and am happy to say, was very successful! This block is for the February recipient of our Bee Crazy Virtual Quilting Bee. March is my month; I need to come up with something soon and start preparing my fabrics to send out. What to do...what to do?!!!

Parker's baby quilt

2010-01-24T17:30:00.003-05:00

This is the first baby quilt I've made using flannel. I always wash my baby quilts before I gift them, and it made this one all fuzzy and sooooo cozy.

I hope the recipient likes it as much as I liked making it!

Believe it or not, the pregnancy phenomenon continues at the office....oh, Britt, you should have seen it coming!

Stacey's Block

2010-01-03T16:50:00.001-05:00

Stacey's Block
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I have had the fabrics for Stacey's block for what, six weeks, and was too intimidated to even approach it. Templates? I haven't quilted using a template in 20 years! So I tried it. And failed miserably! Then I converted the center block (the part set on point) into a paper pieced pattern and then, and ONLY then, could I tackle it! All I can say is "Whew! I'm glad that's done!"

Doll Quilt Swap 8 -- Yah!!!!

2010-01-03T07:57:00.003-05:00

It's time to start Round #8 of the famous Doll Quilt Swap ... I'm excited to see who I get partnered with this time. Last round will be hard to beat. I got an amazing partner who spoiled me rotten! Partners to be announced Wednesday night...anticipation, anticipation... I love it!!!

...On the rocks

2009-12-06T20:39:00.003-05:00

Son-in-law visiting from Washington state had a goal of getting in some hiking/climbing while they were here over Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, the weather was pretty dismal for most of their visit.

His youngest and oldest brothers-in-law joined him early one morning ... drizzle and fog, but boys climbing on rocks are bound to have fun regardless of the weather!

I know, Rick, we don't have mountains to compare to what's in your own backyard. Shoot; how am I ever going to convince you to move East?!!

"On the rocks" HaHa ... did you think it had to do with alcohol?!!

Take your grandchild to work day

2009-11-28T21:54:00.003-05:00

It was with great pleasure that I took Benjamin in to the office to meet my employer and co-workers. Of course, he was his usual pleasant, charming self and made quite a hit!

Your picture sits on my desk, Ben, and I look at it often, but it doesn't take the place of the real thing. Grandma loves you, big boy!

Rachel falls in love ...

2009-11-28T21:44:00.003-05:00

DOES A GIRL EVER GET TOO OLD TO LOVE DOLLS ... ESPECIALLY WHEN THE DOLL IS THIS CUTE LITTLE GUY?!!

COME AGAIN, SOON, BENJAMIN ... WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!

Ahhh, Benjamin....

2009-11-28T21:30:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful visit we had with little Benjamin. At six and a half months old, he is the happiest little guy you'd ever care to meet!

Everyone got in on the act of holding him and getting their picture taken. Well, everyone except grandma! Seems like I was always the photographer! Here Uncle Steven gives Benjamin a snuggle.

Auntie Rachel was absolutely smitten with his little majesty. They bonded really quickly. She wants to go with me the next time I fly to Washington.

We even got Uncle Jimmy to hold him ... and it didn't take too much persuading, either! He even stood in front of the football game and rocked Ben to sleep ... big softie!

Grampa and Benjamin got a lot of one-on-one time as they do share a common favorite past-time ... napping!!

I'm not sure when our next time together will be, but I can tell you this, it can't come soon enough!

Grampa's Birthday

2009-11-23T11:29:00.002-05:00

What a nice birthday present that hubby should get to meet his first grandchild for the first time! Happy baby boy and tired parents got into Baltimore airport around 1 a.m. Okay, maybe it's the grandparents who were tired! Little guy is the friendliest sweetheart you'd ever care to meet; these four days are going to go fast, fast, fast!

Drum Roll Please!!! ...

2009-11-01T19:32:00.002-05:00

AND THE AWARD FOR THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BABY IN THE WORLD GOES TO ...

BENJAMIN EDMUND NYE!!!

Okay, so maybe I'm just a little biased. But oh, my, goodness, couldn't he just win that prize?!!!

An awesome giveaway

2009-10-31T07:17:00.003-04:00

There is an awesome giveaway that any quilter would love to win on the site cvquiltworks.blogspot.com

I didn't even know Moda put out such a thing as this sampler pack ... oh, my, fabric heaven!!!

I've not won a giveaway yet but I believe it's like the lottery ... you can't win if you don't play!

Weekend is starting off wet, surprise, surprise! Plenty to do indoors so best get at it!

October Works In Progress

2009-10-26T11:16:00.006-04:00

I've been wanting to try my hand at these little wool felt candle mats and my last trip to the local quilt shop resulted in my coming home with $75.00 worth of materials ... and I only went for a spool or two of thread!!

I love the fact that these are all hand stitched, meaning I'm not totally tied to the sewing machine while I make them. No pattern per se for this one, just looked at a bunch and started winging it. I'm loving it so far!

I've had the fabric for this baby quilt for a while now and since the co-worker I'm making it for is now home on bed rest (baby not due til Christmas) I figured I'd better get my rear in gear (such a lovely saying :/ !!) So here is a simple disappearing nine patch all quilted and ready to bind. But do I have the right fabric for that little task? Nooo!! So a trip to somewhere that sells fabric is in the very near future.

I'm still looking for one more person to sign on for my Pay It Forward...c'mon, now folks...you have a WHOLE YEAR to make your three little projects. You know you don't want to miss out on this!

Pay It Forward

2009-10-20T19:57:00.003-04:00

Okay, bloggy friends, this sounds like fun! I want to sign up for a Pay It Forward with someone I've "met" through my online quilting adventures and to do so, I need to put out the same offer. I will create something handmade for the first three people to comment on this post. The catch is that you first have to have a blog and create a post offering to do your own Pay It Forward. Now won't it be sad if no one comments?!! Boo-hoo!!!

p.s. I need to mention, you have a full year (365 days!!) to do it in, and you can do whatever you want whenever you want. Totally spontaneous! I'm eager to participate!

October Swaps in progress

2009-10-19T06:51:00.004-04:00

October has been a busy swap month. But a fun one. The pink hexagons are for Natasha in Germany, a new venture for me, but I was intrigued enough to try them again for the Teeny, Tiny Quilt Swap. The little peek (since it hasn't been mailed yet; also on my to-do list this morning...)is a little Halloween quilt I made for Rachel Locke in MS (Mississippi?) and the star block is for Skipper (aka Stephanie) in Utah. What an awesome way to "make friends" all over the world!

And to top it all off, I've joined another virtual quilting Bee. Bee Crazy. Appropriately named. My month is still a couple away, so I have time to think about what I want to do and what fabrics I'd like to use. Fun, fun!

Don't have to go to work until 1:00 today. Then Friday night's rained out football game was rescheduled to this evening. Wowsers, my week is going to be all upside down! Hope yours is a good one.

It's a Great Giveaway, Charlie Brown!

2009-10-19T06:39:00.005-04:00

Check out this awesome giveaway being sponsored through V and Co. I have a couple of nieces who have little daughters who'd make great use of Amy's patterns. And her new Marabella fabric line is absolutely gorgeous! Of course, as always, although I wish you luck, I so, so, so want to win myself!!!

FYI: They all grow up II

2009-10-13T21:01:00.003-04:00

So I found this months ago and saved it for the baby. Didn't even know the baby was Benjamin at the time. And here he is, wearing it all ready!! I'd say "isn't he adorable?!!" but that's a rather silly question, isn't it?!!!

FYI: They all grow up !!!

2009-10-10T22:47:00.001-04:00

My baby girl all dressed up for Homecoming.

Seems like yesterday she was just learning to walk ... and it wasn't in four inch heels!!

A beautiful wedding....

2009-09-27T06:38:00.003-04:00

My nephew Brian and his beautiful bride Jessica exchanged vows Friday afternoon in a simple outdoor ceremony held at the Allenberry Playhouse. I wondered to myself why they chose to have the wedding on a Friday, as Saturday is more traditional. Maybe it was because Saturday turned out to be one of the rainiest days we've had in months...in fact, it's still raining!

Anna and Avery looked adorable in the pillowcase dresses Lisa made for them. The children were all very well behaved for both the ceremony and the reception. I'd say their parents are doing something right!

I was so pleased Shannon was able to come and meet some of Tim's family. He's right, he does look quite handsome, and Shannon looked lovely. Maybe the next wedding? Who knows!

It isn't very often that Steven has to fly solo, but Ashleigh couldn't get out of her field hockey match, so wasn't able to attend. He looks a little lost without her!

Here Brian and Steven try to "out-handsome" each other. Oh, those Weible boys! (And actually, Tim decided he was the most handsome of them all!)

Wedding Present

2009-09-26T07:29:00.002-04:00

Old Red Barn Company Quilt Along 006
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Now that the wedding gift has been presented, I can blog my finished product! Jess said that the colors will be perfect in their house. They seemed to really like it. I should get ambitious and make one for our house. Seems like for the amount of quilting/sewing I do, there isn't much here to show for it ... because I give it all away!

Ann's Wonky Red Stars for Bee Inspired .. 3 so far!

2009-09-21T06:03:00.001-04:00

Ann's Wonky Red Stars for Bee Inspired .. 3 so far!
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I packaged up five "wonky" stars for one of this month's Bee Inspired members. I had steered away from this kind of block because it just went against my grain to do something that was purposefully not "normal". Then I had no choice, because this is the block Ann from Denmark (I know, cool, huh?!!) chose. So I looked up some tutorials and found one that really worked for me. And lo and behold. These stars are made with about as much precision as you'd ever care to use in putting together a quilt square.

I started by giving some thought to how big I wanted the finished square to be. Ann requested a variety of sizes, but none bigger than 12 1/2 inches unfinished. The block is basically a nine patch, with the center block being a different color from the background blocks. Then you add various sized triangles to the outer blocks, basically using the flip and sew method. Assemble your nine patch block, pressing as you go, and voila! A Wonky Star Is Born! I've discovered that a little spray starch makes for a lovely finished product. These are going in the mail this morning on my way to work. Thanks, Ann, I've discovered a new favorite! (I like the name "Maverick" star as well.)

DQS7 Received!

2009-09-12T16:30:00.001-04:00

DQS7 Received!
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

So today was like Christmas. The FedEx driver was at the front door while the postman was at the backdoor. The postman brought me back my Old Red Barn quilt-along quilt which is now ready to be bound and washed/dried/crinkled and gifted to my nephew at his wedding in two weeks. And the FedEx driver, well, he got away before I could tell him how much I loved him ... brought me the most amazing package from Tiffany (aka: Tigglegiggles) with a beautifully feminine doll quilt that is embellished with yo-yo's and buttons, a matching pillow that is every bit as gorgeous no matter which side is up, a pincushion from the same fabrics, a honey-bun of Moda Object of Desire fabric strips, a canvas tote bag embellished with yo-yo's, a yo-yo maker (I can make some, too!), beautiful quilt themed greeting cards, and burp cloths for Benjamin! (Whew, that was quite the run-on sentence!) When I saw pics of this project in process on flickr, I'd think, wow, if only I could be that lucky. And I was! Thank you, so much, Tiffany. I am thrilled.

Tranquility by Moda

2009-09-11T20:35:00.003-04:00

So I'd never purchased a "layer cake" before. You know, the Moda pre-cuts that are so much fun to work with. Well, these projects all came from one Tranquility (by Sandy Gervais) layer cake (for Moda). 40 ten inch squares, one from each selection of fabric design in this particular line.

The best part ... I still have enough left to make something else! Maybe another table runner; maybe another purse, I'm not sure. And I think I want to make a little pin cushion to include when I send out the friendship bag. Ahhh, isn't crafting fun?!!

Bee Inspired September- Karla's turn

2009-09-09T23:18:00.001-04:00

Bee Inspired September Karla 006
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Karla chose disappearing nine patch blocks from the Botanical Pop fabric line. I love the fabric and I love making disappearing nine patch blocks. And I couldn't resist taking a picture of my new camera (birthday present from my eldest and her family) to show how it matched Karla's fabric! My sixteen year old said yes, mom, you'd do that! Other pics on my flickr. Now I'm waiting for Ann's red and white fabric to arrive for wonky stars. Hip-hip-hooray!! And now this old lady needs to get some beauty sleep!

Friendship Bag Swap

2009-09-07T06:29:00.003-04:00

I signed up for a swap that started from a tutorial Rachel Griffith of p.s.iquilt had done for a friendship bag. Well, you know me. I took the original idea of how to construct a bag/purse, whatever you want to call it, enlarged it, embellished it, and this is what I came up with.

I do like the ruffled pocket on the front, if I do say so myself! Ashleigh said her mom would like it, so I'm thinking of doing another one, even bigger, for her birthday in October. We'll see...

Christmas Block Swap All Received!

2009-09-06T10:28:00.002-04:00

Christmas Block Swap All Received!
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I now am the proud owner of twelve assorted scrappy Holiday blocks that I intend to make into a tree skirt. This was a fun swap to be involved in. Such a diverse assortment of fabrics were used, way more than I would have come up with within my own stash. That's what makes these swaps so great. Now to figure out how to lay out the tree skirt...hmmm? Any suggestions?

September Swaps Completed

2009-09-06T08:55:00.004-04:00

Terri, from California, wants snowmen and Christmas blues and greens for her blocks, so this is what my stash yielded. Not snowmen per say, but snowmen accessories! I hope she likes it.

Susi in Germany wanted polka dots, so this was my version. It'll be interesting to see what the recipients do with their blocks. Only one more month [as two people dropped out :( ] and then this swap will be finished. I've some other projects to be working on, a friendship bag swap that I need to double-check the send date on (Got my SIL Peggy involved in that one ... her first swap!) so no problems staying busy.

Show and Tell A quilt for all.September 001
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

September's swap blocks for the Show and Tell Quilts for All are now done and ready to be mailed. I've discovered that you can't send internationally from the automated machine at the post office, so I'll get these packaged up and head out to work early Tuesday. I have one to Germany and one to Canada as well as a couple within the U.S.

p.s. Ooops, Rachel, no, I didn't forget about our Bee Inspired swap, but I haven't even received the fabrics yet, so obviously can't be done with that one! Eagerly awaiting..... "No, Mr. Postal Delivery Person, I am most certainly NOT mentally unbalanced!"

A fashion statement

2009-09-05T16:56:00.003-04:00

Rhonda bought Steven some fancy outdoorsy britches for his birthday and when I caught that he was wearing them, I thought I'd grab a picture for her.

And these were sitting on the step at my elbow, so I thought, why not? So here's a little taste of Autumn color soon to come...

Of course, according to Steven, the photo SHOULD be of his new gun. The first one he's purchased all by himself (so now he's officially a registered gun owner.).

He came home from work on the run, said "Brian (his cousin) wants me to meet him at the state game lands in Newville. They're supposed to have the best dove hunting in the state!" And before I knew it, he and his dad were both geared up and out the door! I just shake my head and say "whatever." !!

quilt from France

2009-09-03T23:21:00.002-04:00

One of the quilt swaps I joined evolved into a kid's quiltie swap, and since I don't personally have a little one, I suggested that my secret partner make something for Benjamin. As my daughter is fond of classic Pooh, this is what we received from Vivie in France.

quilt from France
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I didn't know if to keep it here at my house in Pennsylvania until he came for Thanksgiving or if to send it on to Washington state so he could enjoy it now. I'm glad I sent it on to him. Aren't they both adorable?!!

Too, too cute!

2009-08-31T23:33:00.001-04:00

Okay, maybe I'm a tad bit opinionated when it comes to the most beautiful baby in the world, but isn't he absolutely adorable?!! Benjamin, you're gonna be a young man before I get to see you again if you don't stop growing so fast! One proud grandma here, yes,indeed!!!

DQS7 Goodies

2009-08-30T12:10:00.001-04:00

DQS7 Goodies
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Finally have my DQS7 swap stuff ready to put in the mail. A week or so ahead of deadline, so I did okay. It's going off to someone who lives in a state who's name starts with the letter "M". Hope she likes it.

Grandma's big boy

2009-08-24T22:47:00.002-04:00

One word.
Precious.

Another giveaway! Last chance!!!

2009-08-22T14:02:00.003-04:00

Rachel Griffith is doing another giveaway on her blog p.s.i quilt and today's the last day to get in on the fun! And who wouldn't want to order fabric at 25% off ?!! So check it out. And good luck!

Scrappy Christmas Block Swap

2009-08-16T10:49:00.003-04:00

I know, I know, another swap! They're addictive!

The idea is that you will receive 12 scrappy 12 inch blocks to use as you'd like. Getting ready for Christmas and it's still summertime. Now THAT makes me feel productive! I saw a really cute tree skirt made up with these and I think that's what I will do.

This was my first effort. I like it. A particular participant likes it; but I don't think she's in my group. Then I found some other Christmas fabrics in my stash that I thought I'd work up, so not sure yet which ones I'll swap. I need 12 for trading. You had a choice of signing up for just six, or for twelve, and well, you know me! Okay, back to the sewing machine ...

Awesome giveaway/ V. and Co

2009-08-14T05:47:00.006-04:00

Check out this awesome giveaway that I found on V. and Co's blog. She's one funny chick ...

Gee, Vanessa, my whining doesn't usually yield these kind of results! Maybe I need to take lessons from you!

SO glad it's Friday.
Oh, yeah, it's the little things.

dqs7 Almost finished!

2009-08-09T23:17:00.001-04:00

dqs7 Almost finished!
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Busy day.
Got the DQS7 swap quilt all free motion quilted, got the binding on. Now just need to label it so I'm not tempted to keep it for myself. I'm thinking I need to make another as near to "just like" this one as possible. The layer cake I used has a lot of other pretty fall prints, so it wouldn't be identical, but just as pretty.

dqs7 borders added

2009-08-09T11:47:00.001-04:00

dqs7 borders added
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Added a couple of borders.
Need to figure out what I want to do for the back.
Then sandwich and quilt.
Hey, there IS light at the end of the tunnel!

DQS7 Possibility

2009-08-08T21:24:00.001-04:00

DQS7 Possibility
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

So with little to go on as far as my partner's tastes (no favorites, only 3 pics in her photostream), I went with the fact that fall colors were listed as a favorite and chose to make a design that I would like to keep for myself. Not sure if I'll add a border or exactly how I'll quilt it. I'm having a lot of fun with free motion stippling so that's probably the route I'll take. All in all, a productive day.

Bee Inspired August

2009-08-08T09:53:00.001-04:00

Bee Inspired August
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Krista's block is done. She was striving for an Amish two-color look and everyone received a packet with black and one other solid color. When I opened mine and saw orange, I thought "Halloween" and had a hard time wrapping my brain around what to do. This paper pieced pattern is what I came up with, but what a challenge. The points are anything but perfect and it ended up scant of a full 12 inch square, so I added a black border the whole way around. I'm just glad it's done. If you squint, it doesn't look too bad from a distance!

Productive morning

2009-08-06T11:12:00.001-04:00

Raven pillows
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Didn't have to be to work today until 12:30. Still got up at 5:30; too much life to be lived to just stay in bed! Rachel needed a birthday present for her friend Caitlin who is a Baltimore Raven's fan. So here we go. Hope she likes them.

Pretty in Pink

2009-08-03T06:01:00.004-04:00

So I looked at Rachel Griffith's friendship bag tutorial, was inspired, and used that inspiration to go off and do my own thing with a larger, modified version of her bag...

Instead of using the 1 1/2" strips (as she had a honey bun and I had a charm pack...Charleston V by Judy Rothermel for Marcus Fabrics...civil war prints), I used the 5" squares, cut them in half, and pieced the body of the bag that way. I also added pockets to my lining, as I intend to use it as a purse, and made the straps (scrappy and pieced...love them!) longer, so I can sling it over my shoulder with ease. All done in one day (if you don't count the fact that it was officially the next day when I finished at a tad past midnight!). The toggle button is from my mom's button box; I believe it came off of an old car coat of hers, so it's extra special.

Nice way to start off August ... I'll call it an early birthday present to myself!

Friendship Bag Swap - Join in!!

2009-08-02T07:13:00.004-04:00

My friend Rachel Griffith of p.s. i quilt has an awesome tutorial for a quick little friendship bag, and a link to a swap that sounds like lots of fun. (Okay, I'm technically challenged, but if you click on the p.s. i quilt, it'll take you to Rachel's blog which'll take you to the site. The picture/button is apparently just a picture because I didn't do it right!)

Registration is open until August 20th, so get the word out and then join in! I think it looks pretty easy peasy. Hardest part will probably be deciding what fabric to use, and then, what to put in it! I'd love to get my butt in gear and make them for my co-workers for Christmas, but now that we're a staff of about 25, that's a pretty big undertaking. We'll see!

Off to the Quilt Odyssey today at Hershey. Dismal day, thunderstorms, dark and gloomy, but it'll be all good inside that convention center! Oh, yeah, gotta remind myself that I do have a budget!

Giveaway!!

2009-07-29T20:32:00.004-04:00

Rachel Griffith of p.s. i quilt is hosting a giveaway on her blog. A $50 gift certificate ... who wouldn't love that!?!!

So go to http://www.rachel-griffth.blogspot.com and enter to win! (However, I hope I win!) Good luck to all!!

Little Boy Blue

2009-07-26T21:33:00.001-04:00

Our little cutie pie is growing and changing so fast. Just a few more days home with mommy until she goes back to work and then all sorts of new adventures lie ahead! Mommy and daddy finally found a suitable hat to shield his brand new little head from the hot summer sun. Have you ever seen such a precious little face? (Indulge me a little bit here ... !!) Looks like he's practicing his Grampa Ronnie couch potato impersonation ... I'm sure he'll have it perfected by Thanksgiving when he comes to visit. Love you, Ben!

My two favorite things all in one!

2009-07-22T21:28:00.003-04:00

I received a surprise package in the mail today from a dear lady that I had the honor of getting to know as she was my dad's caregiver and became very special to me. While I would visit dad during his last months alive, he couldn't get out, so I would bring my quilting along, and my sudoku puzzle books.

Kim came across a book that combines the two ... and she said she just had to send it to me. And Kim, if you read this, I love it, love it, love it!

I'm thinking about throwing out the idea to see if anyway would be interested in joining into a sudoku block swap. I'd have to really stretch my brain's limitations to come up with just what it would look like, but I think it would be fun. Any takers?

Kids quiltie swap

2009-07-21T06:19:00.003-04:00

One of the off-springs of another swap I did was to make little "quilties" for a child in our life, not a child sized quilt, but a little "carry along" kind of thing. The match ups were random and secret, so my partner doesn't know who's making for her (in this case it's a little boy) and vice-versa. They're to be mailed out by the end of July which is just around the corner.

I've had this done for some while and just wasn't sure I was happy with it. The print has all sorts of animals on it, kind of psychedelic like. I don't think I have time to do anything differently now, so I guess this is it. I just need to think of a couple of little extras to add before I pack it up to mail.

Brownies in the oven need to come out. Rachel and friends supposedly made some yesterday that just "didn't come out right" and they pitched the whole effort, so I thought I'd surprise her and have some ready when she wakes up (which could be noon or later!) Even at 16, I didn't sleep late like that girl does!

Have a great day everyone!

Rah, Rah, Rachel

2009-07-19T17:21:00.002-04:00

Can't blog one child and not the other, now can I? Rachel just finished cheer camp. She's the one in the back row, front and center. She's cheered since third grade. I can't imagine her not cheering, it's just what she does. Her fourth grade teacher told me "if I could teach Rachel all her lessons in the form of a cheer, she'd be an A+ student!"

Ahh, to be young again.

2009-07-18T18:52:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of two of my favorite teens in the whole world. Of course, I'm a bit partial, because that handsome young man is none other than my youngest son, and (hopefully) holding on for dear life is his girlfriend of several years. Aren't they just the cutest couple ?!!

Taken two weeks ago while vacationing at Myrtle Beach. No, I wasn't vacationing, HE was vacationing. It pays to know the right people apparently.

dqs7 button.

2009-07-17T19:18:00.001-04:00

dqs7 button.
Originally uploaded by rachelgriffith

Doll Quilt Swap 7 is getting ready to start. We'll know who our partners are by early next week. I enjoyed the last round and am eager to see who my partner will be and how their tastes run. That's the hardest part, hoping that the person you are making for likes what you've made!

I-Spy swap

2009-07-17T18:52:00.001-04:00

I just can't say "NO", can I? I read about an I-Spy quilt block swap and decided it sounded like fun. Now I have to go through some fabric mountains and see what I have that's cutesy that I can cut into four inch blocks. I need 200 blocks, in sets of 10. A stash buster, I hoped. We'll see. Can't use any "trade-marked" characters or sports teams kind of prints, other than that, pretty much anything goes. Rotary cutter, here I come!

Placemat swap received

2009-07-14T21:12:00.001-04:00

Placemat swap received
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

This is the awesome placemat I received as part of a swap I participated in. Confession: this is a staged picture. I don't even LIKE orange juice! (But I did eat the toast!!) Thanks again, Lynne, I love, love, love it!!

Angel

2009-07-12T20:01:00.002-04:00

My dad just loved babies in nightgowns. He thought they looked like "sweetpea" from the Popeye cartoons.

Your great-grampa Jim would have loved you to pieces, Benjamin. Grandma Jennie, too. It makes me sad that they did not live to see this day. You are too, too precious!

Growing like a (gorgeous) weed!!

2009-07-10T06:14:00.004-04:00

Can you believe how this little chubster has grown!! Oh, I so want to smooch on those cheeks! That's Grammie's boy!

Show and Tell/A Quilt For All

2009-07-05T14:48:00.002-04:00

Show and Tell/A Quilt For All
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

The Show and Tell Block group started out as a project where each participant made just one block and sent it to Susi in Germany where they would be combined into one quilt to be displayed, um, some where or another ... I really don't remember! Then one of the members suggested that those interested could sign up to do a "Quilt ForAll", meaning each person who chose to be involved would ultimately end up with enough blocks to make their own quilt. Of course I jumped on that bandwagon! So there were three people to sew for in June, then each other month is just two. That doesn't seem like much sewing but when you're sandwiching it in with all that other stuff called life, it can sometimes be a challenge. So my June blocks are done ... and if the day continues to go well, July will be done as well before I go to bed tonight!

Placemat Swap Quilt/Front

2009-07-04T20:46:00.002-04:00

Placemat Swap Quilt/Front
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I am so behind in my swaps, and I'm going to blame it on being out of town for two weeks. Actually, I've always had a harder time keeping myself at my sewing machine during the summer months. It's always seemed like more of a winter past-time. But I've made a commitment and darn it, I'm going to stick with it! So, Donna, step away from the computer, and no one gets hurt ... !!!

Home again, home again ...

2009-06-28T18:45:00.003-04:00

So I thought I've done a lot of "hard" things in my life.
This was definitely one of the very hardest.
Just knowing I wasn't going to see this little guy again until Thanksgiving.
Knowing how much he's going to grow and change between now and then.
Talk about feeling your heart breaking right in your chest...

I tried putting him in my carry on bag. He would have fit.
His momma said I couldn't take him. Greedy little girl!

Memories were made that will have to sustain me for these next five months.
Then Benjamin will come to Grandma's house. Think I need to start counting down the days!

Benjamin is Stylin'!

2009-06-26T01:47:00.004-04:00

Of course Grammie thinks Ben looks just adorable in his pristine white onsie and little white socks.

Auntie Ashleigh thought he needed a big boy outfit. His mommy says all he needs now is a little bitty brief case!

This was our first venture into shoes. He was a good sport about the whole thing. But then again, he is the world's most perfect baby!

Deception Pass

2009-06-26T01:20:00.003-04:00

So today we drove up to Deception Pass and saw the water at Puget Sound which Rick says is all but the Pacific Ocean. Cool.

It was cool and breezy, overcast, but we had a good time. It was Benjamin's first visit there as well. Daddy says we were only about 45 minutes from the Canadian border.

I got a biology lesson on barnacles, anemones, star fish, and other such creatures. Benjamin wasn't particularly impressed.

Between the cool ocean air and Grammie's snuggles, Benjamin was all done in!

Western Washington Shop Hop

2009-06-24T23:09:00.004-04:00

So, what are the odds that when I would ask my daughter if she knew if there were any quilt shops in the area that she would do some on-line research and discover that the W. Washington Shop Hop started today!

So we did a little further research and discovered that there were several shops within a twenty mile radius of their home. So Benjamin gave us permission to do a little shop hopping today.

I made a couple of small purchases, which shall remain undisclosed, as they are all gift related. I did buy a nice Amy Butler bag pattern that my daughter liked. Then we tried to find fabric to make one for Rhonda and wow! is she picky. We're going out tomorrow to see some water somewhere (?) and there are a couple more shops on the way, so we plan on trying to stop then.

Benjamin was an absolute angel and a real conversation starter. We wore him out!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T11:21:00.005-04:00

Father's Day.
Don't take it for granted.

Tell your dad you love him.
He won't be here forever.

I miss you, dad.
Love, your favorite daughter

My new best guy

2009-06-20T11:51:00.003-04:00

All right, husband of thirty-three years, please try to understand...
you're just not my number one guy at the moment!

This little man has stolen my heart, 100%,truly and completely.
Picture taken at the end of a long day, long after Grammie's normal bedtime,
but "normal" takes on a whole new meaning with a newborn in the house!

I love you SO MUCH Benjamin!

Day trip

2009-06-20T11:19:00.004-04:00

Thursday my son-in-law took the day off of work so we could take a little day trip.

Leavenworth, Washington is a little Bavarian town with quaint gift shops and authentic German cuisine. Since that IS my nationality, Rick thought I'd enjoy it. He also thought I'd enjoy his pointing out various peaks he has summitted as he drove up the winding mountain side sixty miles an hour (that part, not so much!) At one point I did have to throw all caution to the wind and say "Richard, will you Please keep your eyes on the road!" Now I can be branded all the nasty mother-in-law names.

We had the most amazing lunch. I enjoyed cabbage rolls which I haven't had in years. My mom made the BEST cabbage rolls; I'll have to go through her recipe cards and see if she wrote anything down. Yes, she was one of those amazing cooks who just did it without thinking about it. I do have her potato salad down pat.

This was Benjamin's first outing in his new sling carrier. One on-looker thought Rhonda was taking a picture of the contents of her purse! All in all, it was a good day. I know I slept well that night. I enjoy doing the five thirty a.m. feedings, seeing as I am a morning person anyway. I just tell Rhonda to take advantage of my being here and to go back to bed. I never have to tell her twice!

Ben Approved

2009-06-18T10:01:00.002-04:00

I didn't want to blog Benjamin's Pooh quilt until I gave it to him.
Now THIS is the way to display a baby quilt!

Benjamin give Grammie's handiwork a thumbs up!
(Yes, I am SO loving being here with him. My daughter commented last evening that she didn't "get to" change him once yesterday! I told her to remember that in ten days when I've gone back to Pennsylvania and she's changing the fifth poopie diaper of the day!)

Love at first sight!

2009-06-14T15:36:00.002-04:00

I can't remember the last time I had butterflies in my stomach like I did as my plane approached the airport in Seattle, Talk about an important blind date! When I saw Rhonda and Ben coming down the hall towards the baggage claim area, I wanted to leap the barrier and scoop him up!

I didn't want to put him down so we could leave the airport. For some strange reason, his parents seem to think I'm going to spoil him while I'm here. I, however, think that's already been done! More later!

Baby Ben Update

2009-06-11T21:31:00.002-04:00

Five weeks old today ... doesn't seem possible.

Rhonda's Aunt Peggy, Benjamin's GREAT Aunt Peggy, made him this beautiful afghan. (Gee, Peg, does that make you feel old ?!!)

This time tomorrow night, I'll be fretting about what I've forgotten to put in my suitcase. Which, at this moment, is still empty!

Old Red Barn QAL

2009-06-08T09:50:00.001-04:00

Old Red Barn QAL
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

So I decided to stop at 6 X 6.
I can use the extra blocks in pillows.
I'm thinking, "wedding gift"
although two teenaged girls in my life
are both saying ... "me, me !!!"

Old Red Barn Co. Quilt Along WIP

2009-06-07T22:04:00.001-04:00

Old Red Barn Co. Quilt Along WIP
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I've added the fourth row since the picture was taken. I'm happy that the organizer of this quilt along decided to give us an extra week for the quilting process. Since I'll be away for weeks 5 and 6, I don't know how I would have gotten it done. I may end up packing it along to Seattle with me anyway. We'll see. Weekend done. Wow, that was fast.

So sew busy

2009-06-06T09:24:00.005-04:00

Why I thought I had time, or could MAKE time to participate in another quilt along is beyond me, but I did, and I am. I also promised Rhonda I'd decorate some letters spelling out
B-e-n-j-a-m-i-n for the baby's room, and with Ashleigh and Rachel's help, I decapauged for the first time!

Loads of things I should be doing this morning, but when my sister-in-law called and asked if I wanted to go with her to a Founders Day Festival in a near by town, I said "Why not ?!!"

Just got back from taking three boxes and a birthday card to the post office. And this time next Saturday, I'll be at the airport!!!

Counting down the days!

2009-06-02T21:15:00.004-04:00

Can you believe Benjamin is almost four weeks old already?

Thursday he has a weigh-in at the pediatrician's ... I'm eager to hear how he's doing. Rhonda's brother Tim sent her a gift card that she used in part to buy this cute bouncer seat. It'll work better once he has more head control.

And brother Jim sent her this stroller from her registry.
Pretty nice brothers, huh? Think they're trying to make up for some of the mean stuff they did to her in their younger days ?!!!

Have a nice walk, Benjamin ... 11 more days and grammie will be there to walk you ... and rock you ... and hold you ... and kiss you ... and hug you ... and love you ...

Flights of Fancy

2009-06-01T21:44:00.002-04:00

Woo-hoo ... I just ordered this Friday ...

And when I got home from work tonight, this package was waiting for me!

I was so excited to open it ... I couldn't remember exactly what I'd ordered, only that it was from the Flights of Fancy line.

The black print will be the binding as well, but they didn't send the right amount, so I had to email and let them know, and I'm sure they'll make it right. So I got out the iron and got it pressed and all cut up. I feel fairly caught up!

Home at Last!

2009-05-26T21:37:00.004-04:00

Our little prince charming is now finally at home! Released from the hospital on his 2 week birthday. Sleeping 2 - 3 hours stretches ... parents are, in my daughter's own words ... "surviving" !!

I told her surviving is good!

Here are some pictures of Ben being transported home, in his own bassinet, waking up not too happy in his own bassinet ... all part of the package!

Counting down the days 'til I'll be there to spoil him for 14 solid days!

My turn!!!

2009-05-25T10:33:00.001-04:00

Me, me, me ... it's all about me !!!

Every other month there are two members of our virtual quilting bee that are the assigned recipients of their chosen quilt block. The alternating month there is just one person. June is MY month!!! And June is almost here.

I chose June because other people will be sewing for me and I just sit back and wait for the packets of amazing-ness to start arriving in my mailbox. Planned so since I will be in Seattle for the latter part of the month. Then that little stinker decides to arrive six weeks early and test his grandma's patience to the Nth degree! I don't want to wait until the last minute to put my packets together, so here they are, all done except for writing up and printing out 17 copies of what I'd like done with them.

June 2009 is going to be one of the most awesome months of my life!

Sweet Marie

2009-05-19T05:38:00.004-04:00

I've had this little lap quilt done for a week or so but just got the label sewn on last night. It's made from various pink ribbon fabrics in the disappearing nine patch pattern. (Thanks again Rachel Griffith!)

I made this for a patient at the office where I work who recently lost her husband and who has recurrent breast cancer. She's a dear, dear lady in her early 80's who reminds me of my own mom so making this was therapeutic as my mother passed away of a heart attack before having an opportunity to even begin her breast cancer treatment.

I know when I give this to Marie today we'll both cry but that's therapy too. I miss you mom. You'd have loved Benjamin ... I'll give him extra kisses for you.

Waste Not Want Not

2009-05-17T17:50:00.001-04:00

Waste Not Want Not
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Little scraps put to good use.
Now I want to make myself
a pin cushion!

One day closer

2009-05-17T17:19:00.002-04:00

Everytime I see a new picture of this little guy, I have to marvel at how beautiful he is. Is it just me or is he really, truly beautiful ?!!!

I think it's pretty obvious his daddy is quite smitten with him. Remember that, Rick, when he's finally home and wailing at 3:00 a.m. !

Look at these tiny fingers. Perfection. Amazing.

Bee Inspired - May - Nettie

2009-05-17T07:01:00.001-04:00

Bee Inspired - May - Nettie
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

Okay, now both of my May blocks are finished for the bee inspired virtual quilting bee. You know what that means.. I'm next!!! So now I need to get my stack of fabrics out and start cutting them up and putting together my packets to mail out. The thought was that I'd not have any sewing to do as I'll be in Seattle for half of the month. Then I got to thinking, Hey, I may have some pretty interesting mail waiting for me upon my return! It's all good!

Bee Inspired - May - Deanna

2009-05-16T15:54:00.001-04:00

Bee Inspired - May - Deanna
Originally uploaded by A peek at Donna's World

I have two different people to make blocks for in May.
I actually intended to start with a different one, but I loved this pattern when I saw it and knew it was exactly what I wanted to do for Deanna, who also chose stars as her theme. I'll pick up something to send along
with this and get it in the mail next week.

Ben makes progress

2009-05-15T06:05:00.002-04:00

The kids (as parents can always refer to their children - of ANY age - have posted a whole lot of pictures to photobucket, so I chose a few to post here. The baby is doing really well; they were able to remove the feeding tube from his nose yesterday, he doesn't have to be under the bili-light any longer, and he's almost back to his birth weight. He still has another week of the i.v. antibiotic so projected discharge date is next Thursday. I may be a tad partial, but I think he's absolutely perfect!

Baby Ben Saga Continues

2009-05-12T21:21:00.003-04:00

I've asked Rhonda if she'll try to post at least one picture a day to her MySpace so I can feel connected with all they're going through. They've been more than cooperative ...

I love that Rick is already reading to the baby. Rhonda and Rick are both avid readers, as is this grandmother. Benjamin seems quite content to hear his daddy's voice.

Dosing in daddy's arms ... hopefully he doesn't roll off of daddy's lap!

Rhonda and baby, all in blue.

Benjamins's numbers are coming down nicely. Hopefully only one more day under these lights.

Rick says that "little old ladies make these hats for the newborns." He probably means us 50 year olds!

DQS6 Received!

2009-05-11T21:59:00.004-04:00

This morning I stopped at the post office to pick up my international package. (Okay, and to mail another box of teeny baby boy clothes to Washington for my brand new grandson!)

It was from the little country of Luxemburg. Inside was the most darling little quilt, along with a delicate dresser scarf, a beautifully embroidered handkerchief, two pieces of very pretty fabric and a postcard!

My partner says this is an original design. The quilting is beautiful and I love the yo-yo's.

The center is accented with a covered button on top of a larger yo-yo, on top of a circle of teensy tiny little white yo-yo's. It's amazing!

I feel very lucky to be the recipient of this beautiful little quilt and promise I will give it a good home! Thank you, Lil!

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T22:40:00.003-04:00

My dear daughter sent me this on my cell phone while I was at the grocery store. I imagine a couple of people in the frozen food isle thought I was nuts as tears rolled down my cheeks ... do you think they might have thought it was because the price of tater tots has gone up so much ?!!!

A new life ... A new love.

2009-05-10T19:31:00.004-04:00

I see these pictures and it still all feels so surreal to me. Until I can touch him, it's like it's all a dream. But a really, really great dream!

So instead of this year being Rhonda's first Mother-to-be Day, it ended up being a Mother's Day after all! I know she's overwhelmed with everything. After all, she thought she had six more weeks to get ready!

These pictures are so priceless to me ...

What a miracle the creation of life is. Look at this tiny piece of perfection.

Prom 2009

2009-05-09T20:59:00.003-04:00

Steven and Ashleigh looked so nice for Prom tonight. They picked out their own flowers, outfits, everything, themselves.

Steven assuming what I referred to as his GQ pose.

Wouldn't be a photo shoot without Ashleigh being gangster in at least one shot!

They DO make an adorable couple, don't they ?!! (Of course, I'm not the least bit biased!)

More Ben and Daddy, too!

2009-05-08T21:09:00.001-04:00

Holy, Moly, this is going to be the longest six weeks of my life!

I want to hold him!

Baby Benjamin

2009-05-08T20:33:00.003-04:00

What a wonderful Mother's Day gift!
My baby and HER baby ...
I SO want to jump on a plane and head west;
but practicality says I need to wait until my
originally planned departure date ... six weeks away!
I love you Benjamin ... and your mommy and daddy, too!!

I'm a Grandma!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-07T22:06:00.002-04:00

No pictures, but a smile from ear to ear!!!

My daughter delivered a healthy 5 pound 7 ounce baby boy this afternoon ... six weeks early. It's killing me that she's three thousand miles away and I'm not there. I can't just drop everything and head out there now when my plane ticket says June 13th.

Pictures to follow as soon as available.

Welcome to the world, Benjamin Edmund Nye.

I love you!

Argyle

2009-05-03T10:58:00.003-04:00

So my company and I went out to the Outlet Mall to do a little shopping. With a new grandson arriving soon-soon-soon (Oh, yeah, I am WAY excited!) I cannot resist the temptation to pick up adorable baby things when I see them. This little argyle sweater was just too cute to pass up.

But I was most excited when I found SOCKS to MATCH !!! (Ah, yes, it's the little things in life!) Hope you all had a great weekend as well.

Leslee Jayne

2009-05-03T10:50:00.004-04:00

We had company this weekend. My brother-in-law was here with his six year old son, along with a friend, and two more nephews and a niece. Needless to say, lots of noise and not enough sleep!

For whatever reason, Miss Leslee Jayne decided that Uncle Ronnie's lap looked like the best seat in the house. Now, you would have to know my husband pretty well to understand that this is a highly unlikely scenario! However, he was quite tolerant and we even got a glimpse of a smile a time or two!

While I enjoyed having them here for the most part, the silence that settled over the house as they pulled out of the driveway was most welcome!

Who needs sleep? ... (or "Who put this sand in my eyes?!!"

2009-04-29T05:41:00.003-04:00

Okay, so it was almost an all-nighter, but I got it done. And all washed/dried and crinkled! I love it.

This is for Jamie who is embarking on a new adventure, newly wed, moving the whole way across the country to join her soldier-boy husband in Washington, and expecting a first baby. Would "Angels to watch over me" be an appropriate name for this quilt?

And the icing on the cake is that at 12:45 a.m. I was stirring up potato salad to take in for her pot luck luncheon! Man, this is going to be a lllloooonng day!

Westward bound!

2009-04-27T08:18:00.002-04:00

My Doll Quilt Swap is finally going in the mail.
The quilt has been done for weeks ...
THIS is the procrastinator in me!
I wanted to mail it as soon as it was done,
but was told I needed to wait.
Then it got put aside and now it's
Crunch time...
So westward ho we go!

Donna's World

A New Beginning

Pretty in Pink!

Wendy's Quilt

Remember the baby bunny....?

Ryleigh Emma

New family member!

Snow, Snow, Snow, Snow and MORE SNOW!!!

DQS8

Boys will be boys!

DQS8

Bee Crazy Swap Block

Parker's baby quilt

Stacey's Block

Doll Quilt Swap 8 -- Yah!!!!

...On the rocks

Take your grandchild to work day

Rachel falls in love ...

Ahhh, Benjamin....

Grampa's Birthday

Drum Roll Please!!! ...

An awesome giveaway

October Works In Progress

Pay It Forward

October Swaps in progress

It's a Great Giveaway, Charlie Brown!

FYI: They all grow up II

FYI: They all grow up !!!

A beautiful wedding....

Wedding Present

Ann's Wonky Red Stars for Bee Inspired .. 3 so far!

Sponsored Giveaway at V and Co

DQS7 Received!

Tranquility by Moda

Bee Inspired September- Karla's turn

Friendship Bag Swap

Christmas Block Swap All Received!

September Swaps Completed

A fashion statement

quilt from France

Too, too cute!

DQS7 Goodies

Grandma's big boy

Another giveaway! Last chance!!!

Scrappy Christmas Block Swap

Awesome giveaway/ V. and Co

dqs7 Almost finished!

dqs7 borders added

DQS7 Possibility

Bee Inspired August

Productive morning

Pretty in Pink

Friendship Bag Swap - Join in!!

Giveaway!!

Little Boy Blue

My two favorite things all in one!

Kids quiltie swap

Rah, Rah, Rachel

Ahh, to be young again.

dqs7 button.

I-Spy swap

Placemat swap received

Angel

Growing like a (gorgeous) weed!!

Show and Tell/A Quilt For All

Placemat Swap Quilt/Front

Home again, home again ...

Benjamin is Stylin'!

Deception Pass

Western Washington Shop Hop

Happy Father's Day!

My new best guy

Day trip

Ben Approved

Love at first sight!

Baby Ben Update

Old Red Barn QAL

Old Red Barn Co. Quilt Along WIP

So sew busy

Counting down the days!