Charming Girls Are We

Yesterday, I finished my July Charming Girl Challenge project and here it is: "Cinnamon Bundt Cake." All ready to go to the quilter. I decided I didn't want an extra border but like the way the outer triangles serve as a border.

The Moda Charisma fabrics were lots of fun to work with, and this pattern was easy and fun to sew.

The photo below shows the project that I'm going to be working on for my August Charming Girl Challenge. It's a pinwheel, as you can see, made from some sweet pastel fabrics, many of which have a cupcake theme. I haven't come up with the right name for it yet. I thinking a title will come as I continue to work on it.

I invite you to hop over to my sister Joanne's blog and see her finished August project. She based her quilt on the book Ahab's Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund. Our book club read this book a couple of years ago, and everyone loved it. I was afraid I wouldn't at first since I have never been able to make it through Moby Dick. But think not of that overbearing tome when deciding if you want to read this book; they are NOTHING alike except that they share a common character, Ahab, and a common setting and theme, New England whaling.

Joanne's quilt, which  I think she calls "Una's Quilt," but I could be wrong, is a collection of sampler blocks, each representing a character or image from the book. Una is the title character. The colors, fabrics, and designs, are perfect for this quilt. I think you'll love it, as I do.

Also, go on over to Kelly's blog to check out many other wonderful Charming Girls projects that were finished this month.

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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 07/31/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Love your quilt! The imagination shown by you Charming Girls as books were selected with gifts to match is amazing. I look forward to seeing more! Well done to you, your sister, and the others I linked to!!

Cheers!

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On 07/31/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

ps - about the August challenge - I suggest calling it "Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice"!

I love making Pinwheel blocks because they're always so cheerful. I've made several baby quilts and one flannel quilt using that block.

Have fun!

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On 07/31/2009, Joanne said ...

Love that Cinnamon Bundt Cake top! Thanks for the plug, also.

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On 07/31/2009, Carol said ...

Great finish...love your quilt!

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On 08/01/2009, Patti Koosed said ...

What soft pretty colors Susan.
Love what you are doing.
Hey thanks for stopping by my blog and for the comment on my Nautilus digital collage. I am exploring the wonderful world of photoshop!!

Hugs
Patti

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On 08/01/2009, Snap said ...

Cinnamon Bundt Cake is beautiful!

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On 08/02/2009, Beverly said ...

Well, Susan. You've gone and created another beauty once again. I love all the eye candy you always have waiting to share with us.

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On 08/02/2009, annie said ...

Lucky Ducky....congrats on being the "charming girl" winner!!! XXX Annie

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On 08/03/2009, Nicole said ...

Another good book recommendation for me to seek out! I picked up The Physick Book yesterday and am totally enthralled. Thanks so much for telling me about it Susan!

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On 08/03/2009, Cathi said ...

Congratulations on the finish and on the win!
It looks great and I like the title, too. Can you tell it's near lunchtime?

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On 08/03/2009, Kai said ...

Gracious! Do ALL your family members have talent & sweet spirits? I think they DOOOOOO! Love your Cinnamon Bundt Cake quilt AND love your sister's quilt also! (I can tell your sis is a sweetheart by the way she writes!) Susan, you BAKE beautifully, you SEW beautifully, you WRITE beautifully, you CARE beautifully ... my goodness! No WONDER I just love you!
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Sweet Comes in Many Forms

For instance, just look at My Sweet Audrina doll that Courtney made and sent me as my partner in Kai's Summer Reading Challenge Swap. Courtney chose that book by V.C. Andrews as her swap book; but she also sent me a copy of Gregory Maguire's Son of a Witch, which I have on my summer reading list. To top it off, she included that beautiful crystal bauble that you see in the photo. I haven't finished the book yet, so I'm not sure how the bauble figures in, but I know it does. Thanks, Courtney, and thanks Kai. This was a great swap.

And then there are blueberry muffins, another kind of sweet. One night recently, our daughter Andy (AKA Angela) brought us a bag of big, sweet, juicy blueberries. I had been nibbling on them until last night when I decided to use the rest in some muffins. They were soooooo good. We had them for snack last night while watching tv, then for breakfast this morning. And we still have six or eight muffins left. 

One more sweet, and that would be Sophie. Phillip and I are taking her to Dr. Rachel at 3:30 for her checkup and shots and to see if Dr. R can give our girl something for her itchies, which she gets every summer.

No more sweets for today--oh, except all of you who are so sweet for stopping by. Hope you all are having a great Thursday afternoon.

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On 07/30/2009, Jeanne said ...

Hello Susan, we have finally returned from our extended vacation and we are home to stay. I am trying to catch up with your posts today. I have missed my blogging friends.

I totally understand why you have to set priorities for your precious time. You have so many worries to deal with. I hope Vann improves and your ears improve as well. I loved 'your Sweet' post today.

Prayers and blessings to you both and have a happy day.

Hugs...Jeanne

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On 07/30/2009, Sandy said ...

Your muffins look delicious. I have already frozen 26 quarts of blueberries and just came in from picking another gallon. I'll be busy tomorrow making jam. I love your blog and look forward to your updates. Hope you and your husband are doing better. Until next time....

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On 07/31/2009, mom2fur said ...

I read that book a long time ago, but I'm not sure Audrina was all that sweet! At least the doll is, LOL! And the muffins looks yummy!

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On 07/31/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Sweet indeed! Love the goodies and doll! Well done, Courtney!

I've frozen lots of blueberries, too, and we learned that 2 blueberry bushes aren't nearly enough to keep us happy.

We're trying to locate cooking pears so we can make pear honey but it may be early in the season or there may be no cooking pears available in this part of VA. Anyone know the answer to this?

Hugs!
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Excuses, Excuses

 

I give up. I'm finally coming to the realization that I can no longer keep up with answering your blog comments. To do that, I'd have to cut out blogging--then there would be no comments to respond to anyway. So for now, at least, please forgive me if I don't respond to your comments. Please do know that I read and treasure every single one of them. I get so much support and pleasure out of knowing each one of you, visiting your blogs, sharing in your lives and having you share in mine. I don't want to give any of it up. It's just that my life is so full right now, I have to pick and choose what electives I take part in. If you have a questions or something that requires a response, I will certainly try to answer. Otherwise, just know I love you all.

Health Reports
Vann had chemo Monday and had a very good day yesterday. Today, not so good but improving.

I had an appointment with the ENT yesterday to check and see why my hearing is going and I have pressure and pain in my right ear. Well, it seems that part of the problem is age related--but then, what isn't? Both ears show some hearing loss due to nerve damage but not a huge amount. My right ear, however, has a bunch of fluid behind the eardrum which is probably causing me to be almost totally deaf in that ear. I had deadening stuff sprayed up my nose and down my throat and then Doctor poked a light up in there to ascertain whether or not I had any cysts, lesions, whatever. I didn't. So he put me on prednisone and nose spray for the next week. If that doesn't solve the problem, he says he'll put tubes in my ears. Well, we'll see about that.

My goal for today is to clean up my office. It's a huge wreck--even worse than the sewing room. But first, I guess I'll change out of my pajamas and into some real clothes. In case there's a air raid or earthquake or anything that causes me to have to vacate the house. Y'all have a good afternoon.

P.S.
I just heard from Courtney that she received her package Kai's Summer Reading Challenge, so now I can show you what I sent. The deal was to send your partner one of your favorite summer reading books, and handmade item and a purchased item that go along with the theme. I chose the book Watership Down by Richard Adams. I remember reading it with my kids one summer in the 70s when they were still pretty young. I made a lined tote bag with a bunny applique pocket. Then I included some bunny rabbit fat quarters and a packet of "Dream" notecards. Courtney said I did good. I'm so glad she likes everything. Tomorrow I'll show you what she sent me--also very good.

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On 07/29/2009, sherri said ...

Susan, no need to comment back to me but Im praying for Vann and you. Happy house cleaning...that reminds me maybe I should do a little of that too! heehee

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On 07/29/2009, Nicole said ...

Susan, the book themed gift is sensational! Tell Vann to hang in there.

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On 07/29/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

Blogging can be a full time job if you let it... Don't worry about answering everyone....we will be here anyway...
Hugs,
Penny

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On 07/29/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi friend! As I've said in the past, there's no need to reply to my posts and you're the only blogger who has ever done that in my experience. You take care of you and we'll cheer you on!

Love the cute themed things you made and bought for Courtney as part of the summer book challenge. Well done! I look forward to seeing what you received.

Hugs to you and to Vann!

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On 07/29/2009, Molly said ...

My ears went wonky like that several years ago, I lost almost all my hearing!! It was allergies causing a surplus of gunk behind the ear drums. I got a neti pot to flush my nose and finally one day my ear(the one that was the worst) popped and I could hear. This early summer I got stopped up again and had to take sudafed to dry me up. I used my neti pot again and it finally went away. Hope you get some relief soon, it is miserable to not be able to hear right!

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On 07/29/2009, sherry said ...

Hi Susan. Don't you ever feel you have to reply back to my comments on your blog. I realize what all you (and all bloggers) have going on in your lives. I love stopping by to say hello & see how things are going with you & Vann. Love the picture in the top of the post...The Golden Girls. Love watching those reruns & I'm just shy of hitting the big 50! LOL My 6 y/o granddaughter laughs at me when I sing along with their opening theme...LOL It's gotten to be a way to "annoy" PaPa so she asks me to sing it so PaPa can cover his ears! LOL Keeping you & Vann in my thoughts & prayers. Again, don't feel you are neglecting if you don't reply, I'll be back later to see what's up! :)

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On 07/29/2009, linda j. w. said ...

Hi Susan, You are truly a sweet heart,Vann is always in my prayers.When you have your house clean you can come to Texas and clean mine HA!!Do not reply to my comment.
Thank You for being YOU !!!
Linda

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On 07/30/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

Hi Susan great to hear that Vann is doing well. Hope your ear problems sort themselves out soon
Alison

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On 07/30/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, please don't give responding to any of my comments a second thought. I don't always do very well with that either.

I'm glad Vann was able to have his chemo, and I'll keep praying to good days.

Love the package you sent. She must have been thrilled.

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On 07/30/2009, Kristine said ...

Hey sweetie! You don't have to answer me, I can only imagine how busy you must be. The bunny pack is so cute, cute cute!! The book is a tear-jerker.

(PS) Be wild, be daring, stay in your jammies all day.

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On 07/30/2009, Annie said ...

I've been browsing blogs, just found yours. Lovely, I especially like your fabulous quilts.

Wanted to wish you the best with your ear problems, I've been hearing impaired for 48 years. No fun, lost my hearing to an antibiotic as a teenager.

: )

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On 07/30/2009, Lisa S said ...

My Mother had problems with her ear for several months. Went the antibiotic route no help. I finally talked her into going to our chiorpractor he fixed the problem and showed her where to rub in front of her ear whenever she started having problems. You might want to give that a go.

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On 08/01/2009, Snap said ...

What a wonderful package! I love Watership Down. No fun with the ears ... it seems like this summer lots of folks having inner ear problems.

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On 08/03/2009, Kai said ...

I NEVER get to reply to everyone, but I KNOW we are all bogged down with STUFF!So no worries! Vann, this is for you: HUG, HUG, HUG, AND SOOOO MANY PRAYERS! Susan: TUBES in your ears? Eeeeew! That's like BEANS in your ears - not a good thing! Hope the prednisone & nose spray does the trick. Sophie: Woof, woof, woof ... Hoooooooowl! If humans want to know, that means, "Hope the doc can get rid of the itchies!" Finally, I LOVE it that you & Court had great swap experiences! You are both the BEST!
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Sunday Sundries

Look at these beautiful bookmarkers that my good blogging buddy Debra sent me. She made them on her embroidery machine. I have lost the card she sent with them and can't remember the details, but I remember that it took several hours stitching for each one. I just love them. They're so pretty and intricate. Thanks so much Debra.

Below are four more ATCs I made for the SwapBot swap.

Now my only deadline I haven't yet met this month is my Charming Girls Challenge quilt top, the Charisma Bundt Cake Quilt. I only have a couple of short diagonal rows to go, so I think I'll make it. Probably not tomorrow since Vann has chemo. And maybe not Tuesday, as I have an appointment with the ENT. Vann and Andy think I'm going deaf, so I have to go see what the matter is. Have any of you noticed a problem with me being able to hear you? I DIDN'T THINK SO!

Vann took me and Phillip to IHOP for brunch today. I swear, we consumed enough cholesterol to light Las Vegas for a month. But it was good.

I hope everyone has had a fine weekend. We're hoping for a nice quiet Sunday evening with sloppy joes for supper.

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On 07/26/2009, Laurie said ...

Oh, those bookmarks are gorgeous! And your ATCs are so much fun!

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On 07/26/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the bookmarks! I love almost all bookmarks, but these are especially sweet.

How on earth do you imagine the designs you put on the ATCs and then how on earth do you make them become real??????? Amazing!

Applause!!!!

Hugs!

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On 07/27/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, those bookmarks are so pretty. And, I love your ATCs.

I'll be hoping for a easy round of chemo, and no unpleasant side-effects.

My mother loves IHOP's omelets.

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On 07/27/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

p.s. Hope Vann does well with the treatment and feels good soon thereafter. Please give each other hugs as I cannot be there to do it myself.

Have successfully mitred corners - all 4 - on a Laurel Burch Christmas panel from several years ago and I'm really pleased with how it brightened the panel. It's the usual Laurel Burch riot of glorious colors but on a black background, so is quite striking. It's from her "Holiday Collection".

Canning tomatoes with AMIL in a little while so need to get ready.

Hugs!

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On 07/27/2009, Kai said ...

Ooooooh! Those lace bookmarks are delicious! And you make the BEST ATCs! Barbara Anne is so right! You DO make them come alive! All are great but my fave is the apron! Love it! Cannot wait to see the quilt! And I already told you via email but will say it again: Vann, hope the chemo helps you feel better! Susan, I'm saying prayers for your hearing! LOVE YOU!!!!

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On 07/27/2009, linda j. w. said ...

Hi Susan, I don't know what Vann and Andy were thinking because I think you hear pretty good to me.I love the bookmarkers and the ATC's.
Linda

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On 07/28/2009, Karen said ...

Ohhhh my. What treasured bookmarks those are. How wonderful. Thank you for sharing such beauty!
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A Cake Story

Here's the Hummingbird Cake I made for the WOW Bake Sale yesterday. I had quite an adventure getting it to our market booth. I couldn't wrap it because the wrapping would have squished the frosting. I didn't have any containers to pack it in except for my own tupperware cake cover, and I didn't want to let that go. And I certainly couldn't carry it to the bake sale naked.

So I put the cake in my cake cover, loaded it in the car, and went to Wal-Mart. There I found a cake box in the craft section that looked just right for my purposes. Looks can be deceiving.

When I got to the car (did I say that it was pretty hot yesterday), I found that my cake had warmed up. All the layers had slid to one side (sort of like the Leaning Tower) and had bumped up against the side of the cake cover.

No worry, said I to myself. I can fix it. But first I had to assemble the purchased cake box. It was just a matter of folding flaps and tucking them into slits in the sides of the box. Sounds easy. Well it wasn't. When I would get one side folded and tucked, the other side would come loose. I did that numerous times with no luck, so I decided I'd first put the cake on the bottom of the box and fold the sides around it and tuck them. I figured that the heft of the cake would make the box more stable and easier to assemble. Wrong again.

I got the cake out of the tupperware, straightened up the layers, and smoothed out the messed up frosting on the sides (yes, I used my finger, but first I had slathered antibacterial hand cleaner on my hands that Vann keeps in the car). Then I set the cake on the box's bottom. (Did I say I'm doing all this in the confines of the front seat of my car in the Wal-Mart parking lot?) 

So I have the box with the cake sitting on the bottom on the passenger side seat. and I go back to the process of trying to fold and tuck flaps. I'm sweating like a pig in August and I have cream cheese frosting up to my elbows, but I finally get the box closed and flaps tucked. 

When I got to the bake sale and lifted the box, I could see that the layers had again slid and were resting on one side of the box. So I had to open the box, straighten up the layers and smooth out the frosting once more. Closing the box wasn't quite as difficult this time, but it took a few minutes. When I got to our booth with the cake, a lady was standing there waiting for the hummingbird cake. She bought it, Veronica put it in the lady's car, and I left, licking my fingers, hands, and arms all the way home. I hope that lady got the cake home without disaster. But I wouldn't bet on it.

If you'd like to make your very own Hummingbird Cake (it's really a very easy cake to bake--just difficult to transport in the summertime), you'll find the recipe here.

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On 07/25/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

ROLFLASMS!!!!!!!!!!! That's my version of rolling, laughing and splitting my sides!! Thanks so much for the good laugh. Your word pictures are priceless and I can see it all. That just goes to show that in a Southern summer, all bets are off when it comes to frosting, cars, and cakes!

It is a beautiful cake and fingerprints don't affect flavor. Now about that antibacterial hand cream... perhaps germs would taste better than that?

AMIL made a Hummingbird cake for me for my birthday and it was wonderful! April temperatures are kinder, tho!

Hugs!

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On 07/26/2009, Beverly said ...

Oh gosh, Susan. You made me feel like I was right there with you - sweating and fussing.

I feel certain it was worth it to the lady that purchased it because Hummingbird Cake is so delish. In fact, where does she live? I would like a slice with my coffee this morning. ;-)

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On 07/26/2009, Kai said ...

Okay. I HAVE to apologize first! Why? Because I'm a TERRIBLE person. Yep. I SHOULD have read that post with a sad, sorry look on my face, muttering, "Oh, poor lil' Susan! What a trying ordeal!" But, no. I am HORRID, and I LAUGHED till my sides hurt. Forgive me. Heehee. Oooops. Wait ... Hahahahahah ... BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA ... uhhh. BAD KAI.

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On 07/26/2009, marydon ford said ...

Sympathizing!! You are so funny. TTFN ~Marydon

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On 07/26/2009, linda j. w. said ...

Hi Susan,Bless your heart,you always know how to put me into a good mood.I love to read your Blog everyday.
Linda

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On 07/28/2009, lila said ...

Life can be a challenge even in the ordinary simple things! LOL!
Hummingbird cake is one of my favorites!
Looking forward to seeing your "bundt cake" quilt when you finish!

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On 08/09/2009, deborah said ...

I like your blog..............fun stuff...love the quilt ideas so much to look at
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Where Women Create

Do you think I'll ever get an interview in that magazine? 

I'll be back later (I hope) to show you some creations that came from that mess.

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On 07/25/2009, Gayle said ...

Your post made me smile...lots of happy creativity going on there! :-)

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On 07/25/2009, Sandy said ...

Going by the name of the magazine, I think you would qualify!! Looks normal to me. I say as long as you don't get hurt navigating around in your sewing room, a little mess can be quite comforting. I find if things look too neat I don't want to mess it up by starting a project. Fortunately, that hasn't happened to me yet. Mine is always messy. Love your site!

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On 07/25/2009, TilkkuSatu said ...

Looks familiar ;)

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On 07/25/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

My mess is larger and my room much smaller. I see a connection there ... unless that's a stellar rationalization!! Sigh!

The room on the magazine homepage is daunting to me. I think I'd have many a lovely nap on that fainting couch in the left back corner. :D

Hugs!

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On 07/25/2009, Teresa said ...

looks like an interesting magazine, and your space looks like you were having fun.

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On 07/25/2009, lila said ...

I see some blocks for the "flutterby" quilt on your design wall.
My studio is always in a "CREATIVE" state...though I did just add some more open and airy shelves to hold open bins of lovely, inspiring fabrics!

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On 07/25/2009, Andrea said ...

Ha! That's what my space always looks like when I'm in the throes of a project.

Maybe we should start our own magazine "Where women get down and dirty and the magic really happens" - except, hmmmm, it might attract the wrong kind of audience.....

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On 07/26/2009, Cate said ...

I invite you to could check out Cloth Paper Scissors Studios http://www.interweavestore.com/store/p/3075-Studios-Summer-2009.aspx

Inside each issue there are studios tucked in spare bedrooms, closets, basements, and dining rooms, as well as some "dream" studios, all with lots of creativity happening in them. Budget-friendly, too.

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On 07/26/2009, Kai said ...

Well, you SHOULD! Hey, that's what a REAL creative space DOES look like! I say, "Give this lady a spot on your COVER!"

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On 07/26/2009, Laurie said ...

LOL, it never ceases to amaze me how brave my blogging friends are to post photos of their creative chaos! I've cleaned up my current project/mess (which was on my dining room table) and am itching to go make another mess!
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Blueberry Cobbler for Dessert

Bill came back over today, and the guys worked straightening up the basement again. They have done a terrific job.

I made a late lunch for us. I sliced the leftover steak from last night, sauted some sliced onions and mushroom, added a can of beef broth, then dumped in the sliced steak and heated it through. I served it over rice with buttered broccoli and sliced tomatoes on the side.

But the best part of the meal was dessert: blueberry cobbler that I made with blueberries that Paul gave us from his garden. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was beyond scrumptious--if I do say so myownself.

EASY BLUEBERRY COBBLER RECIPE

• 4  cups  fresh blueberries
• 1  tablespoon  lemon juice
• 1  large egg, slightly beaten
• 1  cup  sugar
• 1  cup  all-purpose flour
• 6  tablespoons  butter or margarine, melted
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream  (optional) 

Preheat oven to 375°. Place blueberries in a lightly greased 8-inch square baking dish; sprinkle with lemon juice. Stir together egg, sugar, and flour in a medium bowl until mixture resembles coarse meal. Sprinkle over fruit. Drizzle melted butter over topping. Bake at 375° for 35 minutes or until lightly browned and bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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On 07/22/2009, M&M said ...

Yummy:)

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On 07/22/2009, Janet said ...

Yummy!Yummy! Sounds like a great lunch to me!

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On 07/23/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, this sounds and looks delicious. Tomorrow is my mother's birthday, and I think I will make it for her. She loves cobbler.

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On 07/23/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Looks scrumptious! I have frozen some blueberries for this use in future months and have made one cobbler using peaches. AMIL made a blueberry-pineapple crumble that was to die for. Let me know if you'd like that recipe. I plan to use your recipe! BTW, did you double your recipe for the cobbler in the photo? It looks to me like it's in a 9"x13" dish. Just wondering!

Think I'll use your idea for leftover steak, too!

Hugs!

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On 07/23/2009, Nicole said ...

Where's mine? I feel like I could dip a spoon right into your photo!

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On 07/23/2009, Rian said ...

Oh my goodness, that looks divine!

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On 07/24/2009, kayellen said ...

This looks so good!!
Blueberries are on sale at the market right now.....oh thank you for the recipe!!

Have a great weekend:)

Smiles,
K
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Phillip Is Here!

Phillip arrived yesterday at 6:00 p.m. Sophie was so excited, we thought she was going into shock. He'll be here for almost a month. Carrie is flying in at the end of the month when she finishes up with responsibilities in Wyoming. 

Vann and Phillip have all kinds of plans, starting with cleaning out the basement. Bill came over this morning, and the three of them have been working down there all day. It's really looking good. Like me, Vann is a pack rat. I need to follow his example now and clean out some of my junk.

The ATCs in the photo are what I worked on today while the guys (and Sophie) worked in the basement. They're for a swap. I have to make four more.

Our autumy weather continues. Warm, dry days and cool nights, cool enough to need a sweater outside.

Vann is grilling steaks for dinner. He's really feeling good today. It has been so long since I've had one of Vann's yummy steaks, I'm really looking forward to this one.

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On 07/21/2009, Gayle said ...

Enjoy the steaks!
The cards are great and I love the embellishment on the top right card.

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On 07/21/2009, Rian said ...

I could dig one of Vann's juicy steaks. Have fun!!! Riley gets very excited when Sarah comes. He just about comes apart at the seams.

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On 07/21/2009, Kai said ...

Kai is HAPPY now 'cause Vann feels better today & has Phillip there (as well as Bill) to help boost his spirits & assist with the basement clean-up! AND 'cause my friend Susan has made some really cool ATCs and gets a yummy Vann-cooked steak later! Not to MENTION that I'm happy because SOPHIE, the cutie-pie, is happy!

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On 07/21/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Cheering Vann's good feelings, everyone on at their endeavors, and the yummy reward! Will Sophie get a bit of steak?!

Love the white rabbit card! "I'm late, I'm late for a very important date! No time to say Hello-Good-bye, I'm late, I'm Late, I'm LATE!!" - the White Rabbit

Enjoy Phillip and the rejuvenated basement!

Hugs!

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On 07/21/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

Great to hear Vann is feeling good. Enjoy his steaks.
Alison

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On 07/21/2009, Kelee Katillac said ...

Love your ATC's! Wonderful! Van seems great!

love, kelee

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On 07/22/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, this sounds great. I know you enjoy everyone of Vann's feel good moments. Steak sounds delicious.

Tell your guys I will let them clean my garage if they run out of adventures. ;-)

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On 07/22/2009, Julie Size said ...

That sounds like a whole lot to be excited about! So glad to hear that Vann is feeling well!!! Have a super week!
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God Speed, Teacher Man

Frank McCourt
 August 19, 1930 - July 19, 2009

"Happiness is hard to recall. Its just a glow." --Frank McCourt

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On 07/19/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Go in peace...

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On 07/20/2009, Wendy P said ...

Oh, so sad! My favorite author. What writing talent. The world has lost another jewel.

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On 07/20/2009, Rian said ...

T'is.
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The Jane Austen Quilt

Who knew? I should have, but I didn't. But thanks to a note from Lila, I do now. It seems 19th-century novelist Jane Austen was also an accomplished needlewoman. And she made a quilt--well, at least one--and that's it in the photos. And you can find instructions to make your very own Jane Austen quilt, if you so desire. And I think I just might someday.

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On 07/18/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

I am a big Jane Austen fan...I didn't know she quilted. What a lovely quilt.
Hugs,
Penny

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On 07/18/2009, Joanne said ...

Thanks for the interesting info about Jane A. It's a beautiful quilt, and looks like it must be huge.

As a side note (not to be picky, but I can't resist!), Jane died 20 years or so before Victoria became queen. I think it was still one of the King Georges.

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On 07/18/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi Sue,

My quiltie sister in Australia loves Jane Austin and in 1999, she and a friend made a quiltie trip around the world, starting with the Paducah quilt show, then driving northeast and seeing Fallingwater (Frank Lloyd Wright), the PA Dutch country, NE Quilt Museum and ending up at KeepsakeQuilting. When in England, they saw the real Jane Austen quilt at her former home and the note there said it was made by Jane, her sister, and their mother.

Approximately 10 to 15 years ago, one of the fabric companies made reproductions of some JA quilt fabrics, including the central motif. It may still be around on eBay and such. I used to have a few pieces of it and they may still be here ,,, somewhere ...

Lovely quilt!

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On 07/18/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Wow- that's a lot of cutting and piecing! That's be a challenge for me! I know you can do it! You're so suave! :O)

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On 07/19/2009, Beverly said ...

I am a lover of Jane Austen, too. I can imagine her creating something so lovely. She left us all such wonderful gifts in her writings.

Susan, it would be fantastic if you created your very own Austen quilt.

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On 07/19/2009, Karen said ...

So dreamy!

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On 07/19/2009, Laurie said ...

Wow. Just, wow.

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On 07/19/2009, Sharon said ...

That is some quilt!!!! Looks like a lot of work to me but it's very pretty.

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On 07/20/2009, Kai said ...

It's beautiful, isn't it? And I also didn't know she was a quilter! But it makes sense, I guess, because most women of that time period were (or at least were EXPECTED to be) accomplished with a needle!

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On 07/22/2009, kayellen said ...

Wow,I didn't know this...really pretty:)))

Thank you for sharing,
K

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On 07/22/2009, lila said ...

I'm so glad youposted this Susan!
Meanwhile, Rowan, whose blog is "Circle of the Year", has posted photos of her visit to Thomas Hardy's home. Another antique English quilt with an appliqued medallion center is on the bed where Thomas was born.

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On 07/23/2009, hunnybunny said ...

I'm such a huge fan, I can't believe I didn't know that. It's such a lovely quilt too.
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Charming Girls Chatter

We quilter's in the Charming Girls Quilt Club have been tagged answer the following questions, which will give us an extra entry in this month's prize drawing. So here goes.

1. My favorite fabric is ANYTHING MODA.

2. The pattern I'm most looking forward to sewing (finishing) is Tula Pink's "Flutterby."

3. The food that is my weakness is Coconut Creme Pie. I can't resist it.

4. If I knew I couldn't fail, I would create a garden.

5. The best "life advice" I know is Trust God.

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On 07/17/2009, lila said ...

I love the scrappy quilt you have on this post!!! Is it by chance Tula Pink's "Flutterby"?
I'll have to Google that quilt pattern!
Hope you are having a happy summer! We are having a great cooler weekend, maybe this cool front will move your way too!

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On 07/17/2009, Molly said ...

I'm with ya on 4, and 5(and almost 3)!! I can't resist spaghetti either though, it might be slightly more compelling than coconut creme pie, would depend on my mood.*G*

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On 07/17/2009, Kai said ...

You were right, you know. We MUST be sisters! Sometimes I am amazed at how many similarities we have! THAT'S COOOOOOL! I didn't want to take up your entire blog with my nonsense so I will say here that I really loved seeing all the beautiful quilts in the earlier post. TALENTED LADIES, those quilters!

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On 07/18/2009, Kelly@CharmingChatter said ...

Fun info about you -- thanks for sharing with us! I too, love Moda, and will be looking forward to seeing that Flutterby quilt. I tried my hand at a garden, but the weeds quickly took it over (sigh)! Great advice -- thanks again for sharing!
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Friday Already?

The Little Lamb baby quilt for my friend's granddaughter, who was born earlier this week, is now done. I put the finishing touch on last night with this label that I drew to look like the lambs in the quilt. I hope to deliver it to Arianna's Aunt Kris at the Farmer's Market this afternoon, if the market doesn't get rained out--which is looking like what might happen.

Remember the paint chip bookmarkers I made for the Swapbot swap? Well, below are the beautiful ones I got in return. I have a bookmarker collection, which I will have to photograph and show here someday.

As usual, you can click on photos to enlarge. Hope everyone is having a good Friday (that's "good" with a little "g." I know it's not Easter week.)

 

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On 07/17/2009, Kai said ...

Those are some gorgeous bookmarks! Hey! Just yesterday I mailed you a book so you can try them out. LOL! And that quilt is the CUTEST, Susan! That is definitely going to bring some smiles!

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On 07/17/2009, sherry said ...

Those bookmarks are awesome! You did such a wonderful job on that lamb quilt & that label is just the icing on the cake! Great job..it is too cute. Hope you & Vann are doing well..think of you guys often.
-Sherry
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Snakes

The Good

I live on the very edge of Appalachia in north central Alabama. I'm not really in Appalachia, but you can see it from here. Many of my ancestors migrated from the Appalachian interior back in the 19th century. For that reason, I suppose, I grew up hearing all kinds of folk legends and old wives tales.

At least one that I remember involved dead snakes during drought. Hang a dead snake in a tree, the legend goes, and rain will come. 

In some brief internet research, I've found that there are different versions of this superstition involving how one hangs the dead snake, whether belly up or back up. And at least one site claims that you can also hang him on a fence to bring rain. But we were tree people in my family.

It had been weeks since we'd had a drop of rain here in Leeds. The lawns were dying, trees were looking sickly, and I was just generally cranky (I love rain). I was out in the dry front yard with Sophie one afternoon last week and found a tiny dead snake there. He was long gone, dry, and curled into a curlique with his tiny little mouth open. That's when I remembered the dead-snake-in-a-tree tale. I picked him up and hung him in my althea bush and forgot him. Within 48 hours, we had received five inches of rain.

The Bad

My friend, Judy Wood, who lost her dog Patches on Sunday had another doggie disaster this week. Yesterday, her Mickey was bitten by a copperhead in his own yard. They thought they were going to lose the little fellow. But today, it looks as if he will recover, thank God. 

One of my greatest fears is our Sophie getting snake bitten. Just last summer, we killed a copperhead in our yard. And this past Sunday, a neighbor killed a huge rattlesnake in his backyard. These outer fringes of Appalachia are very snakey.

The Ugly

Well, I don't really have a story about an ugly snake. Although I know that the vast majority of these legless critters are harmless, and even beneficial, they're all ugly to me. I guess I have a snake phobia. One day I'll tell you about the time I came home from work to find a 6-ft.-long rat snake on top of my refrigerator. Eeeeewwww!

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On 07/15/2009, Joanne said ...

Thank you a million times for hanging the snake in the bush! I was just about to perish for want of rain. The snake charm is one I hadn't heard, or if I had, I forgot it. We'll just call you the Rainmaker.

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On 07/15/2009, Marie said ...

eeeewww....indeed! The only snake I ever liked was soft, plush and stuffed.

A 6 FOOT snake on your fridge...I don't think I want to hear about it!! : )

I am glad to hear it rained - we could use some of that too! My grass was so nice and green two weeks ago and now it looks like straw. But I'd rather look at straw than a snake!

Can you tell I'm not a fan of snakes at all!

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On 07/15/2009, Elaine said ...

I do not like snakes either!! I recall going with my g-uncle up in the Blue Ridge Mts. to pick up a sports jacket (his pipe had burned a tiny hole in it)from a lady who did weaving repairs. She lived in the back woods of the BRM and it was steep narrow dirt roads to get to her house/cabin. It was drought and she had this very long rattle snake hanging from her clothesline pole. Something was said about it and either he or she said it was to bring rain....and Rain it DID..within a day or so...

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On 07/15/2009, Andy said ...

That's so funny. I was just tellin Scott about the snake on our refrigerator. I forget how it came up. I don't think he likes snakes either.

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On 07/15/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Ewwwwwwwwww! I don't like spiders or snakes even if they are beneficial. I don't touch pictures of spiders or snakes either.

We have black rat snakes here and if they stay away from me and from the house, they're welcome. We have copperheads, too, and they aren't welcome anywhere ever.

Interesting about the snake in the tree .... and we DO need rain .....?! Does it have to be a real or formerly real snake? We have a spare rubber snake if that would work. Any ideas?

Next subject please!

Hugs!

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On 07/16/2009, Kristine said ...

Thank you for bringing the rain. I love snakes and used to have 8 or 9 as pets. We only have 1 now.

I bet that 6 foot rat snake raised a fair ruckus! So did you catch him and release him or did someone else? Inquiring minds want to know.

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On 07/16/2009, alexandrine said ...

I hate snake !!!!!!!!!

Here we want rain too....:-(((

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On 07/16/2009, Teresa said ...

I had not heard that about hanging a snake in a tree, but will remember it now. I had a snake in my house once too. My husband was at work and I yelled for my son, who was on the phone talking to his gf. It was a harmless garden black snake, and did not belong in my house. My son got it in my mop bucket, and then picked the phone back up and kept talking to his gf...holding the snake in the bucket with the mop. Of course, it got loose and was slithering all around my kitchen...ever try to catch a 4 ft long black snake on linoleum??? I ran to the yard, got the heavy duty rake and finally we got the darn thing wrapped around the rake, threw the snake and rake out the back door. Never saw that snake again!

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On 07/16/2009, Nicole said ...

Oh. Snakes. Talk of them makes me weak. I have a serious phobia for them. If I ever had one in my house I am sure I would have to move. Emigrate to Ireland. They don't have snakes in Ireland. Hey, I'm Irish--maybe that is where the phobia came from!

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On 07/16/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, this post gave me a big ole smile. I have a snake phobia, too. And, spending most of my life in south Florida provided me many snake experiences.

I don't recall seeing a dead snake hanging from a tree, but you taught me something new.

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On 07/16/2009, Ramey Channell said ...

I remember when we were little, either Mr. Engle or R.J Armstrong hung a BIG dead snake in a tree right close to our smoke house. (It was probably Mr. Engle, since he's the one Mama always called to get rat snakes out of the chicken coop.) Anyway, Daddy got disgusted because eventually the snake rotted, attracted flies and smelled awful. He had to use a long fishing pole to remove the smelly dead snake from the tree, and ofcourse it left me with a trauma as all things did!

Your sister Trois

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On 07/16/2009, Ramey Channell said ...

That was me with the previous stinky DEAD SNAKE in the tree story. For some reason it didn't recognize my URL.

Do you remember how Mr. Engle used to reach into the chicken coop with his bare hand and grab a snake and yank it out of the nest? He was a fearless snake catcher.

Trois

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On 07/17/2009, Kai said ...

HAHAHAHAHA ... GASP! I just laughed my fool self nearly sick reading the comments! That was SO MUCH FUN! Oh, my goodness! Now let me settle down here & comment on the actual post which was, by the way, VERY interesting! Hmmmmm - dead snakes/rain. The only thing IS, "Where ARE those doggone dead critters when you NEED 'em?" After all the accounts of snake phobias, I'm almost reluctant to say - I LIKE snakes. Don't necessarily want any sneaking UP on me because that would freak me out. But I really don't fear them. And I love spiders! It's ... LIZARDS ... that terrify me. Just WRITING the WORD creeped me out. If one were to get ON me, I may as well just lie down & CROAK. Hey! Maybe if I hang a dead LIZARD in a tree it will be the catalyst for rain. You think? Of course, I'm too scared of them to KILL one. Sigh. I guess we Houston folks are doomed to be parched!

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On 07/17/2009, Suze said ...

Does it have to be a whole snake?? The only dead snake I know of around here is a rattler head embedded in a ball of plastic resin that my DH came home from Texas with as a souvenier..do you think if I took it outside and put it upside down in a tree that it might work to bring us rain??? That is..if I could convince myself to touch it?? It's been sitting at the back of a shelf in the corner with the fangs turned to the wall for at least 15 years now...I don't look when I dust it..
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A Gathering of Friends

Just what I needed. I attended the last meeting of the year of Birmingham Quilters Guild yesterday. Our new year starts in September. I had not attended for several months, and it was such a joy to see everyone again. I got so many hugs to take back to Vann--I still haven't delivered them all.

I wish you could have been with me, all of you, because it was such fun. So I took some photos so at least you could benefit from some of the eye candy.

Below is "Patches," Judy Wood's doggie who passed away on Sunday. Judy had just finished Patches's quilt not long before.

In our guild, members make friendship quilt blocks for outgoing presidents. Our current outgoing president, Peggy, had asked that all past presidents bring their quilts that they have made from their blocks for Show & Tell. Below are some of those.

I was guild president for the year 1995-96. The above is the quilt I made from my friendship blocks. My parameters were to use the block pattern I provided (Sister's Choice) and use pastel colored fabrics with the center cross of muslin. As you can see, not everyone has the same interpretation of "pastel." This is one of my very favorite quilts. 

Cyndi was guild president during 1994-95. Above is her "Quilter's Angel" quilt that she made from her friendship blocks.

This year is outgoing president Peggy's second term as guild president. Above is the fabulous quilt she made from her first-term blocks.

Judy C. has also served a couple of terms as guild president. Above is one of her president's quilts.

Gail C. has served in many capacities in our guild, including current newsletter editor, a post she has held for several years. In 2000-01, Gail served as president. At the end of her term, she asked for basket blocks for her president's quilt. She got oodles of them. Gail hasn't yet got around to putting those blocks together, so she brought them all to show, pinned to a backing fabric. I chose to take a pic of the backet block that I made (and had forgotten about). I hope I can find the pattern that I made it from. I love that block.

And finally, here is Roy K.'s "Sudoku" quilt. Roy has never served as guild president, but he might as well. The man is indispensable to the operations of BQG. He is half of the quilting team of Betty & Roy K., well known in our midst for creating amazing works of quilting art.

Roy loves to do sudoku puzzles so he decided he would make himself a quilt to represent this pastime. So he bought his fabric. Betty told her husband she'd be happy to help with his project by machine embroidering the blocks with numbers so that his quilt would look more authentic. So she did. Then Betty told Roy that she would gladly sew his blocks together and quilt and bind it for him. So she did. But Roy was quick to remind everyone at guild who was wondering just what part he played in the "making" of this cute quilt that he did pick out the fabric. Great work, Roy!

There was lots more Show & Tell, but I had to leave early. Vann had an MD appointment at 2:00. As it turns out, he has no colitis or any kind of infections, so Dr. L. pumped up the chemo to double strength, and Vann chilled in the big reclining chair for a couple of hours, hooked up to the IV. Please say a prayer that the double-strength chemo doesn't make him feel too bad.

We were both exhausted when we got home. One of the nurses had given Vann a big, ripe, red tomato from her garden, so I made BLT's for supper, we ate, read for a little while, then went to bed early. Vann is still sleeping, but Sophie and I are awake. I have to do laundry today, but I hope to get another row done on my Charisma "Bundt Cake" quilt too.

Correction: Everything I wrote about Gail C. above is true except that isn't her basket block. Actually, as Judy C. just alerted me, the basket blocks belong to Norma Gene, another astonishing lady who has done so much for our guild. She served one term as president and one term as quilt show chairman. She organizes each show's silent quilt auctions, which makes money for a different charity each time. This year's auction garnered more than $3,000 for alzheimer. Norma Gene currently serves as membership chairman for our guild. 

Gail C. did bring her president's quilt, a blue-and-yellow beauty that I never got around to photographing.

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On 07/14/2009, Nicole said ...

Beautiful quilt show! Such a nice tradition too. Your quilt is my favorite.
Hope things go well with the chemo this week. It is a hard hard thing to get through.

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On 07/14/2009, Sharon said ...

Those are great quilts Susan. Just wonderful. Thanks for sharing them. That doggy quilt is sooo nice and sorta sad too. At least she has a reminder of her little dog.
I'm still praying for Van. I hope he's doing well.

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On 07/14/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, I am in awe of all of you fabulous quilters. Your share so much beauty through your art. Thank you so much for allowing us to view these beauties.

I hope this round of chemo isn't too kick butt. I was surprised to read that Vann can have fresh vegetables while on chemo.

BLTs sound fabulous.

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On 07/14/2009, ceramicnut said ...

Hi Susan, The quilts are just beautiful.
My prayers are with Van and you.
Linda from Texas

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On 07/14/2009, hunnybunny said ...

I'm thinking of Vann and you as well. Those BLTs sound delightful. I hope you guys can enjoy a nice relaxing day.

Did you get your package yet? You know the one that took a million years for me to get to you.

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On 07/14/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Beautiful quilts, one and all! I love the various ways the owners chose to put their blocks together, too.

I think the interesting pastel choices make your quilt sing in a lovely way. No wonder this quilt is a favorite or yours.

Hugs and prayers are with Vann and with you.

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On 07/14/2009, Marie said ...

What incredible quilts! I've never tried quilting but I sure can appreciate the time that went into each one!

Praying for Van and you!

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On 07/14/2009, Awtemnymf said ...

Wow- more fabulous quilts. I knew right away what the "sudoko" one was when I saw the numbers. I love doing sudoko!! CAn you fit in 2 more hugs? Make that 3- One for Sophie, one for Vann and of course- 1 for you too! :O)

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On 07/14/2009, valerie said ...

Oh I loved seeing all of these beautiful pictures. I am so glad that things are going well for Vann. I hope it continues. I know that chemo is so hard. We will be praying for him and you.

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On 07/14/2009, Gayle said ...

Thank you for sharing all of these great photos. :-)

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On 07/17/2009, Lallee said ...

These were delightful to see. I am so sorry for your friend losing Patches. I hope her other dog recovers well from his snake bite. The quilt of Patches is just beautiful--I love his happy smile.
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Faith

Yesterday I watched a small bird, flying very fast, disappear into the canopy of an oak tree. So dense were its leaves that it was impossible to see what happened next, though I can tell you it remained inside.

I wondered how the little bird found its opening through the leaves at such a speed, and then managed to gently align its fragile body on the branch it chose to land upon, all within a fraction of a second. Not to mention the impossible to imagine flying maneuvers required: the banking, the curling, the vertical and horizontal stabilizations, the deceleration and landing.

Memory? Calculation? Not in that tiny brain. Instinct? Maybe, but how does instinct know which way the branches of a tree have grown when no two are the same?

Susan, that little bird just knew. It had faith, in spite of not being able to see how things would work out, that if (and only if) it stayed the course the details would be taken care of; that an opening would appear and a twig would be found. In fact, had she slowed down enough to carefully and logically inspect the tree first, the prudent thing to do, she would have lost her lift and fallen to the ground.

Kind of like reaching for your dreams. Neither memory, nor calculating, nor instincts are the deciding factors, but faith coupled with action.

Tallyho,
The Universe

Source: www.tut.com

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On 07/13/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Consider the lilies ....

Hugs!

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On 07/13/2009, Beverly said ...

His eye is on the sparrow.

Awesome post, Susan.

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On 07/13/2009, cielo said ...

Nice thoughts.... very peaceful blog! so nice meeting you!

cielo

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On 07/13/2009, Kelee Katillac said ...

GREAT POST!!!!!

Very inspiring Susan! Needed the reminder to follow my intuition and believe in it!

love, kelee

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On 07/13/2009, Linda said ...

Very thought provoking, Susan. Thank you. Faith vs my control.
My quilt group has a prayer time each meeting. May I share this with them next week?
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It Is Well With My Soul

When peace like a river, attendeth my way;
  When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
  It is well, it is well with my soul.

It is well...with my soul... It is well, it is well, with my soul...

Happy Spiritual Sunday, everyone. For more inspirational blog entries, click on the link. God bless you all.

Photo above by Amy Cleveland. Taken in St. Clair County, Alabama.

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On 07/12/2009, valerie said ...

Beautiful. Thank you.

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On 07/12/2009, Clif said ...

It seems that every time I hear or read one of the old hymns I end us saying, "That is one of my favorites." But it's true. I guess I love ALMOST all of them. This is one of my favorites!

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On 07/12/2009, Lisa said ...

I have always loved this hymn. Thank you for reminding me how much!:)

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On 07/12/2009, Sue said ...

I have always loved this hymn, and what a beautiful serene picture you have shared.
Blessings,
Sue

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On 07/12/2009, Charlotte said ...

What a beautiful picture to represent a beautiful song. Thank you for sharing it with us today for Spiritual Sundays.
Blessings,
Charlotte

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On 07/12/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, I love these words, too. I am inspired by the story of the author.

I'm thinking of you and Vann. I hope he is feeling stronger.

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On 07/12/2009, Sally said ...

This is my favorite hymn, and my favorite verse is the third:

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

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On 07/12/2009, Ginger said ...

I love this song,and your picture today is so peaceful!
Ginger

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On 07/13/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

My favorite hymn, too, and the picture is lovely. Is it now enlarged and framed in your home?

Grace and peace!

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On 07/13/2009, Gayle said ...

Oh, one of my very favorite hymns that has pulled me through some tough times. I'm so glad you shared this. Thank you!
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Book Club Friday

Yesterday was the July meeting of The Bookmarkers, the book club that my sisters and I began in 2002. It's a group of 10 women (down from 12) who like to read. We meet once a month at our town's small library. Each month, the hostess is responsible for choosing the book to read and supplying refreshments. I was hostess yesterday.

I had chosen the book The Gravedigger's Daughter by that most prolific author Miss Joyce Carol Oates. (Mable read that Miss Oates publishes a book every seven weeks!) While not the best book I've ever read, I did enjoy it--but I'm not sure any of the other members did. Ramey gave it only one star; nobody else ventured to say how many stars they would give it.

My refreshments were a little more well received. We had chips and spinach dip, cheese and pepperoni, green seedless grapes, lemon squares, fruit punch, and white zin wine. I almost encountered disaster when I discovered that I had forgotten to bring the crackers for the cheese and the corkscrew for the wine. Ramey and Mondretta came up with a sort of a corkscrew which took three of us to open the wine bottle. But we had to do without crackers with our cheese. 

Next month, our book will be Enemy Women by Paulette Jiles. Mable is the hostess. I've already read the book, and I liked it very much. I hope everybody else does too--and that Mable remembers to bring the corkscrew and crackers.

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On 07/11/2009, hunnybunny said ...

I will have to check out the book, I am trying really hard to read more this year.
I'm kind of jealous you get to bring White Zin to your library!

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On 07/11/2009, Gayle said ...

You always recommend great books. I'll have to give this one a try.

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On 07/11/2009, Lavender Dreams said ...

I'm going to jot down the names of these books. I am on a read a thon this summer! lol I'm glad the library is close by!

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On 07/11/2009, alexandrine said ...

Do have some books title to recomand me ? I would like to read some books in english..;but I loose my english... It since a sooo long time I didn"t read in english when I trie after 2 pages I some tried...
I m looking for easy story.
Yjanks for your help !!
Huggs

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On 07/11/2009, Kristine said ...

I am currently reading Gravedigger's Daughter and I do like it. Mind you, not turning cartwheels over it, but it's a decent read.

Sounds like ya'll had fun at the library!

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On 07/12/2009, Kai said ...

I think the widget removal did the trick for SURE this time! Woooohoooo! I genuinely MISS your blog when I can't read it! Rather than going back to each post today, I'll just catch up all on THIS one. Hope that's okay. The quilts are soooo pretty! The one by Donna is very unique & I love it! If I could quilt, I'd be a really happy camper! Wheeeeee! I'm NOT the only person who knows that song, "Mares eat oats!" LOL! About Vann's possibly having colitis - altho' that's not FUN, at least it would explain the way he's been feeling! If that IS the problem, can they give him something to make him feel better? Yum! Where are Paul & Mr. Bill right now? That food sounded delicious! And homemade butter? I think I'm in love! Finally, the book club. Wish I lived near enough to join you! We used to have several around here but they kind of dissolved over time. I'm tempted to START one myself! See? You are ALWAYS inspiring me, Susan!
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Beautiful Blog Giveaway

Alison Gibbs already had a wonderful blog. And now she has opened a webstore that you will certainly want to check out. And listen to this: to celebrate the opening of this new store, Alison is having a blog giveaway. The photo shows the prizes you have a chance to win. So hop on over to Alison's blog and sign yourself up. Make sure to visit Alison's webstore, Alison by the Bay, while you're there.

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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 07/09/2009, mom2fur said ...

She has some cute things. I love that pink glittery cupcake.
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Paint Chip Bookmarkers

I made these bookmarkers today for a Swapbot bookmark swap. They were so fun to make, I think I'll make some more for my book club. (Click on photos to enlarge.)

One of our very good friends, Mr. Bill, came for a visit this morning. He brought us an entire barbecue dinner that he had prepared for us: bbq Boston butt, baked beans, potato salad, buns, and bbq sauce. That's what we're having for dinner. We are truly blessed with wonderful friends, many of whom are good cooks. Bill is one of those.

Two more are Paul and Karen, our neighbors across the street. On the 4th, they brought us bbq ribs and slaw. And before that, Paul had brought us homemade pea soup and homemade butter. No wonder I can't lose any weight.

I think maybe I have the problem with Typepad solved so that everyone can now get on my blog. I've deleted the LinkWithin widget and a few more. Please let me know by e-mail (suscleve@aol.com) if you have more trouble. Of course, if you can't log on, there's no way you can read this message is there? Hmmmm.

Vann's doctor thinks he might possibly have a case of colitis, which is causing his abdomenal pain. The chemo kills all the good germs as well as the bad cancer, which often leads to these types of infections. So Vann didn't have his chemo on Monday. Instead, he had some lab work done to see what, if any, infections he might have. We haven't heard from these tests yet. He's scheduled for chemo this coming Monday.

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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 07/08/2009, Lisa A said ...

What a clever thing to do with paint chips. And to think I threw away all my unwanted ones last year.

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On 07/08/2009, Penny @ Lavender Hill Studio & The Comforts of Home said ...

You paint chip book marks are awesome! I am sorry to hear about Vann's possible colitis. Hope you get the results and get him feeling better soon!
Hugs,
Penny

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On 07/08/2009, Lavender Dreams said ...

What a cute project. I love this idea!

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On 07/08/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...

What cute bookmarks.
Hope Vann is feeling a bit better and chemo can go ahead Monday
Come visit my blog and enter my giveaway
Alison

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On 07/09/2009, Marie said ...

Wonderful idea! I love these and I can't wait to make some myself. I've got a bunch of paint chips just waiting for embellishments! Thanks for sharing.

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On 07/09/2009, Teresa said ...

Those are great bookmarks and the pictures you put on them are just perfect. I finally was able to get back on to your blog this morning and enjoyed reading over several of the posts. I purchased the book Deception Point for my brother for Father's Day, on the condition that he let me read it when he finished it. What did you thin of the book?

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On 07/09/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, I hope they discover what is hurting Vann, and that he feels much better very soon.

I love your idea for these bookmarks. I do believe I have some paint strips somewhere in my craft supplies.

I'm so glad you are blessed with such wonderful family and friends. They make such a difference in our lives.

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On 07/09/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi Susan! Love the bookmarks and I have so many paint chips and so many small pictures saved that I may copy the idea if you don't mind. Did you cover the back of the paint chip with fabric, paper, or another color chip?

Sorry to hear that Vann may have colitis. AMIL has it and it's been no fun, tho much better and tolerable once on treatment. She and I both have found that a wonderfully helpful and sensible book for bothersome tummies is "Eating Right for a Bad Gut" by James Scala. I bought the book, then loaned it to AMIL when her symptoms began. She found so much of the book helpful that she bought her own copy. We recommend it!

So happy you have good friends near and far to help you thru these days.

Hugs!

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On 07/10/2009, TilkkuSatu said ...

Lovely bookmarks! Great idea to use paint chips :)

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On 07/10/2009, Clare said ...

These are cute - I love stuff like this. I hope your husband feels better soon -

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On 07/12/2009, Snap said ...

Hope Vann is doing better. I love the bookmarks and I have lots of paint chips. Wonderful idea.
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Little Lamb Quilting

I forgot to show this photo yesterday of the quilting design on the Little Lamb quilt. I also forgot to tell you it was quilted by Donna of Donna's in the Attic. I just love her quilting. This is the third piece she has done for me, and I've been very pleased with each one.

I also want to say that I've removed a lot of the widgety things from my blog, including the Link Within widget. I hope nobody else has trouble logging on. If you do, please let me know.

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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 07/07/2009, Nicole said ...

Aw, that is just so sweet.

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

I love the lamb quilting! BTW, you must have fixed the widget glitch--I had no trouble getting on your blog today.

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On 07/07/2009, Laurimar said ...

sooo beautiful.

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On 07/07/2009, Trudy Neill of Windemere Farm said ...

Hurrah! I got your site to load and no error messages....what a relief! Cute quilt too and the quilting looks good!
Trudy

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On 07/07/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

Sweet, sweet, sweet!

Applause for Donna's quilting skills and creativity!!

Hugs!

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On 07/08/2009, Jackie said ...

Yipee! No error message! Can't wait to catch up on your posts.

Jackie

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On 07/08/2009, Julie Size said ...

How adorable is that!!!!!! Obviously I have a special place in my heart for lambs though.
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Time to Quilt

Mares eat oats,

And does eat oats,

And little lambs eat ivy.

A kid'll eat ivy too,

Wouldn't you?

***

This quilt is so happy, it just makes me want to sing and type everything in color.

I made the quilt for one of my very best, oldest friends. (Well, actually, I'm older than she is, as she will readily tell you.) Her name is Linda B, and yeah, she's too old for this quilt, but her new granddaughter won't be, her very first grandchild, this will be, due any day now.

Kelly at Charming Chatter is hosting this Charming Girls' Quilt Club. I decided to join, not just because I'm so charming (which I am, of course) but because it sounds like a good way to get some unfinished projects finished and have some fun at the same time.

Members of the Charming Girls commit to finishing one UFO a month. For each project finished, the members receives one chance to win a $25 gift certificate. BTW, finished quilt tops count as one project, and the same quilt quilted and bound qualifies for another chance.

I'm sure I made all that clear as mud, so if you'd like to know more, just visit Kelly and read all about it. There are other fun activities you should know about. Below is the project I vow to finish in July. It's my Charisma "Bundt Cake" quilt.

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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 07/06/2009, Kristine said ...

OMG!!! That baby quilt is beyond precious! Momma is gonna die. I'm tempted to tell my brother to use as display only, it's just too pretty to risk baby bodily fluids getting on it.

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On 07/06/2009, AwtemNymf said ...

Congratulations- You won my "Enchantment Surprise" Give-Away! I am emailing you now for info.

*claps*

~A~

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On 07/06/2009, alexandrine said ...

This quilt is wonderful !!!
Congratulations to the new grandma !

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On 07/06/2009, Beverly said ...

Susan, I Love This Quilt. They are going to adore it. What a wonderful thing for you to do.

And, I love that verse, too. It brings back a lot of memories.

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On 07/07/2009, Debbie said ...

Love the quilts. Wish I time to do "something". Hubby is home and sick, so...everytime I pick up something to do, I hear, "Will you bring me this or get me that? What are you doing in there?" Oh well.

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On 07/07/2009, Deb said ...

Susan ~ I love the baby quilt...since I became a granny 6 months ago, my eye catches anything to do with babies! I esp love the flying geese around the borders and the corner blocks! What a nice gift.

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On 07/07/2009, Barbara Anne said ...

What a joyful, happy quilt! You need to make another one to keep and put away for a grandbaby in your family. It is just that special!

Finishing a quilt is a worthy goal. Wish I had the push to do it. I think I can ....?!

Ah, the verse. I remember as a small child I thought the words were
Maresy dotes and doesy dotes
and little lambsy divey
Akiddlee divey too, wouldn't you? :D

Hugs!

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On 07/07/2009, Nan said ...

Hello Susan! I'm finally visiting you! And what a pleasant visit it is. The quilt is adorable and I love that song - I sing it to my grandchildren!
I really like the idea of the quilt club, too. Thanks for sharing.

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

Cute, cute baby quilt...lucky baby! Oh your Bundt Cake quilt is just wonderful!

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

That is just the perfect baby quilt! And I love how Charisma/Bundt Cake is coming out!

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On 07/08/2009, Kelly@CharmingChatter said ...

That Little Lamb quilt is TOO CUTE! And, I'm looking forward to seeing the finished Bundt Cake quilt! So glad you've joined us in the fun!

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On 07/09/2009, Carol R said ...

Bundt Cake quilt? Wow, that would be the kind of cake for me, and you won't gain any pounds by making one. Welcome to the club. I can't wait to see what a full Bundt Cake quilt looks like. The previews are scrumptious.

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On 07/09/2009, Joan Tufts said ...

Oh I love your Bundt Cake Quilt... Can't wait to see it done....
Enjoying sewing with you in the Charming Girls Club!
Joan♥♥♥

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On 07/09/2009, CJ said ...

Cute Lambs quilt!!! My dad used to sing that song and it took me years to figure out what he was really saying! :D LOVE the Charisma quilt, can't wait to see that one all finished.
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