Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Happiness is a Cool Dog

Sophie
This is mostly where our girl Sophie likes to be during these scorching summer days. Like me, she just doesn't appreciate summer. Give us a good old cold day anytime. All the better to play outside--so says Sophie.

Sophie has made the back of this love seat hers for the last seven years plus. The back cushions are hopelessly smooshed. I want new living room furniture, but Sophie would never forgive me if I got rid of her nest. So I guess we keep the worn and smooshed pieces. Isn't it something how we let little critters dictate our home furnishings?

Great success at the doctor's office yesterday. Blood tests showed Vann's counts (red, white, and platelets) were way, way up. So he had his chemo. He is feeling much, much better today than he has for the past three weeks. The pain in his tummy is just about gone and he has more energy. In fact, he went out today and did some yard work, which I thought to be ill advised, but try to tell a man or a dog--huh? But after a quick nap on the couch (Vann on the big couch, Soph on the love seat), they were both up and out and making their rounds of the neighborhood. That's where they are now.

I have to tell you this: As we were driving to the doctor's office, I was saying my prayers as I usually do. I asked God to please let the blood counts be up just enough so that Vann could take his chemo. Ask God for an inch, and he'll give you a mile. The counts had soared, as I said before. Hey you guys, God wasn't kidding when he told us to ask for what we need. Go ahead. I dare you. Try it. You'll see.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/30/2009, Kristine said ...

Hooray!!! So glad to hear the good news about Vann. Yes God answers prayers.

I don't blame you and Sophie one bit about the heat. If it wouldn't strike Momma blind, I would stay nekkid and poised over the air conditioning vents.


On 06/30/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Yayyy! I'm glad Vann was feeling great to get his treatment! I knew he would! :O)

How are you doing? I see Sophie is comfy in her spot!

Hugs!!


On 06/30/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Glory be! So glad those meds in the white hats are whopping the daylights (my Granny's expression!)out of the bad cells in the black hats!

Where is your comfy place?! Keep your cool, sweetie, and that means stay in the A/C in the South!!

Tomorrow is cardiac appt. day for AMIL who has atrial fib and a two week old pacemaker and for FIL who has heart failure, too low blood pressure, and what may be failing innards. He's been a very difficult person for decades ,,,,

Thursday is GI (gastrointestinal) appt. day for the two of them. AMIL for the colitis she ended up with after living with FIL for 5 decades and FIL because he's lost his appetite and it's been gone for about 3 weeks.

Prayers appreciated. I'll take you up on your dare.

Hugs!


On 07/01/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

That is wonderful news for Vann. So happy to hear he was able to have his chemo and is feeling so good.
Take care and thinking of you both
Alison


On 07/01/2009, kayellen said ...

Wonderful news!!!Thank you Lord!!!

The best kind of blog entry!!!

Sweet Sophie she and Gracie look so much a like:)

I have a smashed pillows in my family room...her favorite hang out.

Blessing to your family:)
kayellen


On 07/01/2009, Carol said ...

That is wonderful, wonderful news! We'll keep those good thoughts going! Stay cool!


On 07/01/2009, Beverly said ...

Sing the Lord's praises. Thank you God.


On 07/01/2009, Nicole said ...

Whew. I have been thinking (praying) for Vann for days. This is wonderful news.
Your Sophie and my Ozzie are two of a kind. He loves to perch on the top of one of our family room chairs. He smooshed the last chair hopelessly, and I am hoping the new chair will stand up better.


On 07/01/2009, Joanne said ...

Wonderful news about Vann--tell him he can run over here and help Willis with the painting. Just kidding. Stay cool. Love to the Soph.

JR


On 07/04/2009, Kai said ...

WOOOOOOHOOOOOO! If all my combined leg problems would allow it, I'd be doing MULTIPLE happy dances right now! First - I CAN READ YOUR BLOG AGAIN!!!! I don't want to 'clog your blog' so I will simply let you know that I just spent a loooong time visiting all the back posts! Second, GOOD news about Vann! You KNOW everyone is pulling for you, Vann! We want you WELL!) And third, I got to see sweet Sophie who, of COURSE, deserves a smooshy place to cuddle up! Now I'm going to reply to the newer posts so beware - Kai is in the house! LOL!
-----
PING:
TITLE: Friday Ark #250
URL: http://themodulator.org/archives/003391.html
IP: 63.247.138.21
BLOG NAME: Modulator
DATE: 07/03/2009 12:27:05 PM
We'll post links to sites that have Friday (plus or minus a few days) photos of their chosen animals (photoshops at our discretion and humans only in supporting roles). Watch the Exception category for rocks, beer, coffee cups, and....? Visit all the b...
-----


Monday, June 29, 2009

A Summer Visit

Summer & Gregg These are our sweet friends, Summer and Gregg, who visited us this weekend from Georgia. Gregg is sort of like one of Vann's kids. When he was a little fellow, Gregg would spend part of each summer with Vann and his first wife before their children came along.


Gregg and Summer were married a couple of weeks ago, and we weren't able to attend. So they brought the happy couple to us--and they are happy. You can tell by being with them that they've both found soul mates. Congrats to you, kiddos. We love you both.

Summer, it so happens, is a for-real dog person. She and Sophie hit it off right away. Sophie was sad to see her go and hope she comes back soon.

Vann is scheduled for chemo this afternoon--that is if his blood counts are up enough. Please say a prayer that they will be. Although the treatments make him feel bad, he doesn't want to miss too many.

Still hot here. I can't remember a year recently when June has been this hot. It almost rained yesterday. We were disappointed that the black clouds and thunder were just a tease.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/29/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Good Morning Sue-
Praying for you all. Vann looks great!
That is one happy couple- gorgeous photo :O)

I'm with you- Looks like we're having a little more than a June Gloom. The last couple of days has been H-O-T! 102 degrees. Ran the AC for the first time. I knew it was time when our dogs were panting and the tile floors that we have- weren't just cutting it. Plus- it doesn't help that we're neighbors to "Death Valley" CA.

Hugs to you all!


On 06/29/2009, Rian said ...

That's a handsome couple!

Here's wishing Vann (and you!!) the best as he goes through his chemo.


On 06/29/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi Sue,

What a lovely couple! Isn't it wonderful to keep in touch with folks you've known for years and to see them so happy?

Hope the way was open for today's chemo and that Vann will feel good as those drugs in the white hats go after the bad guys!

Hugs!


On 06/29/2009, Beverly said ...

Oh, I certainly hope Vann was able to have the treatment. I know how important it is.

Congratulations to your sweet friends.

It is unseasonably hot here, too. And, we are so needing some rain.


On 06/29/2009, sherry said ...

Hi Susan. Hope Vann was able to keep his chemo appt today. Summer & Gregg look so happy, wishing them many happy years together! It's been so hot & humid here in IL but we finally got a break from the humidity & believe it or not the temps too as it's supposed to be much cooler here this week. Keeping you & Vann in my thoughts & prayers!


On 06/30/2009, Debbie said ...

Gorgeous couple! I can't believe how hot it is! It seems like it's always all or nothing in Alabama...too much rain, then not enough. This is why I prefer fall more than summer. Will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers. Try to stay cool!


On 06/30/2009, Nicole said ...

Summer and Gregg are such good looking people! Congratulations to them on finding one another.

Hope the chemo goes as planned.

Wish I could send you some of our ocean fog. It was 63 at the beach yesterday.
-----


Saturday, June 27, 2009

More Quilt Show Beauties

Here are some more offerings from Birmingham Quilters Guild's 2009 QuiltFest, held last weekend. Click on pics to enlarge.


Library - 15068

Library - 15080

Library - 15105

Library - 15116

Library - 15102

Library - 15099

Library - 15098

Library - 15097

Library - 15095

Library - 15089

Library - 15088

Library - 15086

Library - 15084

Library - 15081

Library - 15069

Library - 15067

Library - 15063

Library - 15060

Library - 15055

Library - 15054

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/27/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

APPLAUSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love the variety of creativity and the wonderful fabric choices that makes these quilts sing their own songs!

Aren't quilt shows with such delicious diversity just the best?!

Thanks!!!!


On 06/27/2009, alexandrine said ...

wonderfuls!!!

i love particulary 3 of them!


On 06/27/2009, *karendianne said ...

A lot here to love! The basket quilt with nine patches really stole my heart but there are a lot that I love. What a feast!

Thanks for sharing!!!


On 06/27/2009, Melinda said ...

I love the black and white one. I think I am attracted to all the geometric ones. Thanks again for sharing


On 06/27/2009, valerie said ...

Wow. I loved seeing all of these quilts. Thank you so much for sharing. They are beautiful. I have got to catch up on your blog. Looks like I have missed some good stuff. Life has kept me busy.


On 06/27/2009, Kristine said ...

I love the Autumn leaves and the wave-pattern (next to last photo) Thanks so much for sharing your photos!


On 06/28/2009, kathie said ...

this basket quilt is amazing!
can you tell me more about it?
who made this quilt, it looks like a reproduction of an antique quilt, is it do you know?
oh I just love it!
thanks so much for sharing the pictures with us
Kathie


On 06/28/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

I swear- it just amazes me the amount of time, love, detail and precision that goes into quilt making. I hope to someday capture some of the quilt magic! Beautiful quilts- thanks for sharing!
~A~


On 06/29/2009, Sharon said ...

The basket one is my favorite!!! Thanks for the show. Love your new blog banner too. Very cute.


On 06/29/2009, Debbie said ...

I love lime green and pink together (my child at heart!) and the black and white one caught my eye, of course. Btw, if you don't recognize me, I've changed my blog name (no longer The Southern Mom)!


On 06/30/2009, Laurie said ...

Lovely! The dog and bones one is so whimsical! I love them all!

Have you read "A Fraction of the Whole" by Tolz? I just finished it - wonderful up until the ending...he should've ended it sooner!
-----


Friday, June 26, 2009

You Asked

Here's what I've been working on this week.

Finishing this:
Blog 1

Starting this:
Blog 2

Blog 3

Blog 5

Binding this:
Blog 4

Reading this: 
9780316008075_154X233

***QUESTION: One blog reader says she has been having more and more problems accessing my blog. She gets an error message. Have any of you been having this problem? Please let me know if you have so I can contact Typepad. Thanks.***

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/26/2009, Beverly said ...

Girl, you are incredible. Your creations are treasures.

I've been so crazy busy that I haven't been able to concentrate on a good book, but I plan to start a new one this weekend.


On 06/26/2009, Kelee Katillac said ...

Susan -your series of images here is very artful--fits together like a well-designed quilt....why am I not surprised?

Love the top new project!


On 06/26/2009, Joanne said ...

Love your projects, and your new photo.


On 06/26/2009, Julia Wood said ...

OOOOhhh! I'm making a Flutterby quilt, too! I bought the kit before I stopped buying fabric for the year. I've only made a few blocks, I have fussy cut all those diamond centers, though. (That was time consuming!) Great to see you at QuiltFest.


On 06/26/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Applause!!!!!!!!! Love the quilts you're working on and cannot wait to see the photos of the whole quilts or quilt tops when they're at those points! Call me greedy!

I've had no problems accessing your blog.

Happy Friday! Hugs!


On 06/26/2009, Charlene said ...

I read your blog every time you post and I have had no problems.


On 06/26/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Hi Sue- I have had no problems accessing your blog ever. maybe she was having connection hiccups? It happens every now and then!
Wow- you've been busy sewing! AND you have time to read? Whew- how do you do it?

Hugs! & Have a fab weekend!


On 06/26/2009, Chris P said ...

Sometimes Typepad is cranky and won't accept comments regardless of how many attempts I make! I read it via a reader, so access is not an issue.


On 06/27/2009, Deb said ...

Same here, Susan...I read on bloglines and unless I make a comment, don't access your blog...although I see I missed a new picture of you because I don't usually pop over...maybe I should occasionally. :) Have a good weekend!


On 06/27/2009, Jean Brannon said ...

Yes Susan I have a time getting to your blog. I can't get it from my favorites or
the usual internet. I have found that most
of the time I can get you by going to Julia
W's blog. What is going on. Hope to see
you soon. Jean B.


On 06/27/2009, alexandrine said ...

whaouh!!!!!!!

no pbs for me for coming on your blog


On 06/27/2009, *karendianne said ...

Oh dear, I'm getting distracted...


On 06/28/2009, Pam said ...

Hi Susan

I think that people who are using the upgraded IE 8 are having trouble in general with blogs and things. I use Firefox and I have no trouble accessing or commenting.

Love the new project -Flutterby!


On 06/28/2009, dorothy said ...

i made (actually finished it too!) the flutterby pattern using Barefoot Roses by Grand Revival Design. it was a lot of fun and turned out quite well if i say so myself :-) i didn't cut the edge diamonds though--just couldn't do it--i ended up making another quilt with those "extras"--instead i made a template and made my own edging triangles to fit in.


On 06/30/2009, May Kristin said ...

Both your Charisma quilt and Flutterby quilt
look very promising!
No problems by getting to your blog, and I have upgraded to IE8 too!
-----


Thursday, June 25, 2009

Heavy Hearted

Today we lost an angel and a thriller. 
Rest in Peace Farrah and Michael.



Farrah_Fawcett2
Farrah Fawcett
1947-2009

Michael+Jackson
Michael Jackson
1958-2009

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/25/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Go in peace ...


On 06/25/2009, bj said ...

My thanks to you for coming by my cottage today.
xo bj


On 06/26/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

What a tragedy! I adored Farah as an actress and a movie star and especially for her courage, strength and fight through this illness that sadly took her life.

Michael Jackson was and still is one of my favorite performers. He will be missed but we will always have his music. He was left a legacy that made him an American icon.

I was going to make a collage of this very sad day but my computer was down so today I will make my tribute to them both and post it later this evening.

I can just see Farah as a real angel and Michael doing the moonwalk all over heaven!

Their family and many friends and fans will be in my prayers .

God Bless You
Patti


On 06/27/2009, alexandrine said ...

I remember Farah in "droles de dames".

I never love the music of M.J.
-----


Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Feels Like Monday

Get-attachment.aspx We put Amy on her plane to Portland last evening. Well, actually we just drove her to the airport. She really put herownself on the plane. We were all sad to see her go. Sophie wanted to go with her, I think.

I can't even believe it's Wednesday. I guess since our Father's Day weekend went on a couple of extra days with Amy, it just feels like Monday.

Thanks to everyone who gave me frying pan ideas. I have lots of good info and will start some research right away.

Vann is feeling much better. I think Amy's visit did the trick. Doesn't he look happy in the photo? That man loves his kids--all of them. And his dog. And me.

I have a baby quilt to bind and I'm actually working on blocks for two quilts at once. So I have plenty to do in the sewing room today. Let's see if I can't get my self in there.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/24/2009, Beverly said ...

The love we get from our children can always do the trick. This picture is such a treasure.


On 06/24/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Happy Fairy Day! That is a beautiful photo of Vann and Amy! Glad you all had a nice Father's Day and enjoyed her visit (family gatherings are always best)

Hugs & Faerie Dust!


On 06/25/2009, rue said ...

What a handsome husband and beautiful daughter you have!

Thank you so much for your visit :)

rue


On 06/25/2009, kayellen said ...

I love that picture of Vann and Amy...
So precious!!!

Have a blessed rest of the week...

treasured memories:)

Smiles,
kayellen


On 06/25/2009, Jeanne said ...

Hi Susan, I think I have my computer able to post now. I have had trouble getting my comments to post.

Your Amy is so pretty and Vann does look so happy. The best medicine is being with loved ones isn't it?

We are busy getting ready to go off on a camping trip, so I better make this short.

Have a wonderful week.

Hugs...Jeanne

I guess I am still having problem posting my comments...Jeanne


On 06/25/2009, Nicole said ...

Come on Susan, let's see what you are working on! Show us, show us!
Great picture of Vann and Amy. So happy to hear he is feeling better.


On 06/25/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Glad to hear Vann is feeling better! What a great photo of him with pretty Amy! Will you frame it?

I echo the request for you to show us your in-progress quiltie projects.

Hugs!


On 06/25/2009, Julie Size said ...

What an amazing picture!! Vann looks so awesome. Your daughter is stunning!


On 06/27/2009, alexandrine said ...

Vann looks good.
A beautiful picture for your family album.


On 06/28/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

What a pretty girl Amy is. I am sure you had a good time while she was here and know the feeling of having to see her go.
God Bless You
Hugs
Patti
-----


Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Out of the Frying Pan

Esprit-italian-made-10-fry-pan My life is full of quests: quests for a comfortable pair of shoes, a comfortable bra, a swim suit that hides all my imperfections, a non-stick frying pan whose non-stickiness will not come loose from the pan. It is this last quest I wish to talk about here.


I've tried all kinds of frying pans, but have not yet solved this problem. What I want is one of those pans you see the cooks on The Food Channel using. The ones that don't have any non-stick coatings on them, but somehow seem to possess the non-stick quality. Every time I try to use a pan without the coating, I just get a mess of stuck-on food.

So I'm asking you for suggestions. Where could I find such a pan--one that is either uncoated or whose coating will stay put through many fryings. Got any suggestions?

Vann Report
No chemo yesterday. Vann's blood counts were down too low to have treatments. But Dr. L. did change his pain medication and that seems to be working. He's feeling better this morning than he has for the past week. He and Amy have gone shopping. We'll return on Monday next to see if his blood is up for treatment. Keep those praying coming, please.

Amy goes home this evening. That's the only bad thing about visits from out-of-town kids--they eventually have to go home.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/23/2009, karla nathan said ...

Your quests are on my top ten list too! Hey, I just found a "green" frying pan at Target that is environmentally freindly and so far seems to cook with out sticking.

Karla


On 06/23/2009, Kristine said ...

Skillets:

The best I have found are the stainless steel Calphalon.(the ones without the nonstick coating) They are not cheap, but if you keep an eye out on Amazon they sometimes hold great sales. (I bought my 2 when they were 60% off)

Walmart has a brand of stainless called Tremonti (or something like that) and the skillet looks near identical to Calphalon and it had the same thick, solid weight. I haven't bought one yet, but I plan to purchase one. (the skillets sold separately, not the boxed sets) Thin, cheap skillets will burn food, cause sticking and eventually the pan will warp.

The trick to use with non-teflon is : heat skillet first, then add your oil, when the oil is hot add food. For some reason heating the skillet and oil together makes food stick.

Of course well seasoned cast iron is the only thing to use for cornbread, biscuits and fried chicken.

I do have one nonstick that I use for omelets. It's by T-fal and it's held up well so far, but then again I only cook eggs in it.

When you find some truly comfortable shoes please let me know.

Goddess bras are fairly comfortable, I'm a DD so I have to wear some heavy duty support bras.

I'm glad the pain meds are helping Vann, ya'll are in my prayers.


On 06/23/2009, Joanne said ...

Kristine - I also have an old T-fal skillet that doesn't stick--because all I use it for is pancakes or eggs. It's exactly the right size, about 8 inches diam., for pancakes or omelets.

Suze - Prayers for Vann continuing. I'm glad he's feeling better today.


On 06/23/2009, Lavender Dreams said ...

I am reading your comments to see what others say. I have an old set that will need to be replaced some day! I am praying for you both!


On 06/23/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

Glad you posted this question! I have learned alot.

Glad to hear the meds are helping ease Vann's pain.
Hugs,
Penny


On 06/23/2009, Lisa A said ...

Let me know when you find that perfect pan. I think we are all on that quest.


On 06/23/2009, Janet said ...

I received a small set of Calphalon cookware last Christmas and so far the skillet is still "loose" ! One problem is that I can't find any matching pieces since I'd like to have a larger saucepan.

Still keeping Van in my prayers! I'm sure he's enjoyed Amy's visit.


On 06/23/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

Hope Van's bloodcount goes up and he can have his treatment.
Take care
Alison


On 06/24/2009, kayellen said ...

I wish I knew too!..I just got rid of another frying pan myself...

I will be praying for Vann

Hugs,
K


On 06/24/2009, Pam said ...

I use a thick bottomed stainless steel frying pan with no coating and just use a good scrubby to clean it up if anything sticks. If you have birds the Teflon coating on frying pans will kill the birds - very quickly - not only do I have a bird but I wonder if it kills birds what is it putting into the air that we are breathing. I don't even have the Teflon coating on my irons.

I hope Van is feeling better very soon and he can get back on the chemo.


On 06/24/2009, Nicole said ...

The thing about good fry pans is that you have to be prepared to shell out a fair bit of money for one. I have some Calphalon pans and love them. I also like All Clad. I like to use a Le Creuset Dutch oven for stews. My husband bought me a nice copper skillet, but he is so fussy about how I use it that it is more trouble than it is worth.
So sorry to hear Vann has been poorly.


On 06/24/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, I have been on that same frying pan quest in the past. Many years ago, I order Cook's Essentials from QVC, and I love it. I have the non-stick stainless steel, I also have the Technique. I have several types of the frying pans, and they have lasted me a very long time.

I like them so much, that we have given them as gifts.

I hope Vann's pain remains controlled, and that his counts are soon up to resume his treatment.

I have a friend here that was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer almost three years ago. He has been amazing.


On 06/25/2009, Debbie said ...

I meant to leave you a comment, but Beverly beat me to it! I love Cook's Essentials...I got a few pieces at a yard sale, loved them so much I bought a set! I've had them for 6 or 7 years (it's time for a new set, 'cause I cook all the time and they're well worn...but still good!...I just want new ones!)

Hope Vann is doing better.


On 06/27/2009, Nancy Spinrad said ...

If you will go to americastestkitchens.com, and click on equipment reviews, it will take you to a sign in page where you can register (for free) to see the article on the non-stick skillet.
good luck.
-----


Monday, June 22, 2009

Weekend Hangover

Get-attachment.aspx Has this been a busy weekend or what?!?!


*Three trips to the quilt show (14 miles from my house)
*Surprise visit (well surprise for Vann and Sophie; I knew she was coming) from our daughter Amy who lives in Portland, Oregon
*Father's Day dinner of crock pot barbecue, beans, and slaw
*Visit from our friends Horace and Shakey this morning. They stopped by on their way to Wyoming. They just left.

Is that all? I think that's all for now. We have chemo this afternoon. The last treatment made Vann feel so bad for so long; we're really not looking forward to this one.

I hope all of you had a great Father's Day, either spending time with your father or a father you love. My own dad passed away in 1977, and I've missed him every day of my life since then. Vann's dad lives in south Georgia. He spoke to him by phone, as he does every morning.

Gotta go now. Working on some quilt blocks.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/22/2009, *karendianne said ...

My best to you and special healing & strength to Vann this day, to start of with extra support. I really liked your comment on Nicole's blog today, too.


On 06/22/2009, Beverly said ...

You certainly have been busy. I hate that the chemo makes Vann feel so bad, but hopefully it is kicking "cancer butt". That cumulative impact is rough.

Your dinner sounds delicious. Are there leftovers? ;-)


On 06/22/2009, Falicia McLaughlin said ...

I hope and pray this chemo won't be as hard on him! God will give him strength to see him through, and you too!


On 06/22/2009, Nicole said ...

Hang in there kiddo. Kisses and hugs to you both.


On 06/23/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Hugs and blessings as this is the day after the chemo. I hope the internal effects wipe out the bad cells without laying Vann low.

Speaking of Father's Day, we got Rob two "holey" grill pans at Bed, Bath, and Beyond and he is really pleased with them. Both are non-stick and one is similar to a cookie sheet but with three low sides so your spatula has a "back stop"! The other is a skillet. The holes let the heat thru, but are small so the little stuff (like shrimp) doesn't slip thru and into the fire. The two together were only $17.

Now you slow down enough for your soul to catch up with your body, as my Grandma used to say!!

More hugs!
-----


Sunday, June 21, 2009

Some QuiltFest Favorites

Show 26 With more than 400 quilts shown in Birmingham Quilters Guild's 2009 quilt show, it's impossible to show all of them here. It would be too hard to even show all my favorites. There were so many, many unbelieveably awesome quilts. And with so many visitors jockeying for position to see the quilts, picture-taking conditions were less than perfect. Here are just a smattering of the great pieces I was able to photograph.

Show 1

Show 4

Show 10

Show 7

Show 19

Show 14

Show 9

Show 11

Show 20

Show 5

Show 6

Show 13

Show 22

Show 23

Show 24

Show 15

Show 16

Show 8


In Memory of Lost Friends
Show Doris

Show Tom & Cathy

Click on any photo to enlarge.

This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/21/2009, quiltmom( Anna) said ...

Hi Susan,
I love the black mini trip around the world quilt- the colors are fabulous. There were some real beauties at the show- I have the fireworks pattern By Judy Niemayer ( I am not sure if that is the correct name as it may be eclipse or sunflower- never the less it is a beautiful design and the quilter has done a wonderful job of capturing it. The star quilt is very funky and the last row quilt has such gorgeous applique. What a great show to visit and see all that talent in one room. There is nothing more inspiring than a room full of handmade quilts.
Thanks for sharing...
As for the movies - I remember going to the movies for 25 cents and then 50 cents. I went every Saturday and saw lots of wonderful films as well as lots of trash. I remember going to see Jerry Lewis and some Disney films of course. My grandparents took me to see the Sound of Music and My Fair Lady and I think about both of those movies with great fondness. Those were the first times I remember going to a theatre. The 25 cent movies were later.
Thanks for the memories.
Regards,
Anna


On 06/21/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

They are all amzazing. I love the pastel basket one the best. It looks vintage to me.


On 06/21/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Oh Wow- those are all pieces of art - literally! WOW! I must have spent 10 minutes just studying each one! Gorgeous! And I love the "Ribbon" quilt prizes. Genius and so fitting as prizes!
I meant to ask you- when you're working with charm squares to make a 9 patch block (or more or less)- do you wash them by hand and hang them up to dry and then make your blocks? Or do you assemble the charm squares and then sew and then wash?
Also- do you put the charm squares right side together and sew with 1/4" seam allowance 3 blocks by 3 blocks (total of 9)? I've never done it and wondered so I thought I'd pick your brain? :O) Any books on Charms and blocks you'd recommend? Thanks and I love the squares you made for Aunt Pitty Pats 9 block swap~ the pink is delicious! Hugs!


On 06/21/2009, Joanne said ...

Purely fabulous! My favorite is the 16-patch one (second from top).


On 06/21/2009, Kristine said ...

How beautiful! My favorite is the dragonfly by moonlight. I also love the Japanese lady quilt.


On 06/21/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

Oh I love them all!! What talent! I wish I had the patience to sew but I don't so I will let you do it!
Beautiful Susan
Hugs
Patti


On 06/21/2009, Beverly said ...

Wow! Susan, each one is a spectacular work of art. You must have loved seeing each one.

Thank you for sharing them with us.


On 06/21/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Breathtaking!!!!!!! I'm with Kristine and love the moon/dragonflies and the Japanese lady. The skills and techniques used in all are incredible! Thanks!

Now, where are the pictures of the quilts you made and had on display?? May we see them? Pretty please with sugar on top?!?!

The memorials were also special. It wasn't until a quilter I knew died that I really appreciated all the world loses with each death.

Hugs!


On 06/21/2009, Melinda said ...

Thank you for sharing - I loved several of these quilts and enlarged each one to look at them closely. This must have been a spectacular quilt show.


On 06/21/2009, Kelee Katillac said ...

Oh these are thrilling!!! Love the top one best and the Van Gogh...and...well ALL of them!


On 06/22/2009, Karla said ...

Each so beautiful and unique. Chelsea has received two handmade quilts since her birth and I cherish them both so. I hope she will love them as she gets older.
Karla


On 06/22/2009, Amy said ...

Thanks for the quilt show!
-----