Goodbye, 2011

Source: aquieterstorm.tumblr.com via Susan Ramey on Pinterest

 

What are you up to on this last day of 2011? I can't wait to show you what I worked on yesterday and hope to finish today. I might have finished yesterday, but I had to stop working to get ready for date night. Pete and I went for Mexican food last night. We went to El Chokador (so named by Loribelle), a place that Vann and I used to go almost weekly. We saw some friends of mine from church. So I guess the word will be out now that I'm dating. And I guess that's ok. And I think I'm rambling here.

I have no plans for tonight. I guess the doggies and I will watch the ball drop while I work on hand quilting the "Blackberry Creek" quilt. That is if we don't get sleepy before midnight.

Remember to let me know if you plan to continue the UFO Bust for 2012. And even if you weren't a member of the group this year, we'd be glad for you to join us.

OK, now I'm going to the sewing room to finish up that project I mentioned above. You might want to drop over to Beverly's Pink Saturday party to see what's going on. I hear there's lots of pinkness to be enjoyed.

Happy New Year, everyone!

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On 12/31/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Happy New Year to you, Sophie, and Skipper, Susan! It's been a delight to visit with you throughout 2011 and I look forward to to coming year.

Can't wait to see the project you're working on!

Please keep us in your prayers as we have some serious challenges ahead to keep us afloat. Thanks.

Last hugs of 2011!

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On 12/31/2011, Sandy said ...

Goodbye and good riddance to 2011 for me! I don't think I've ever been so happy to see a year close in my life. Cancer made its appearance at our house this year starting in Feb and boy has it been a roller coaster ride. Midnight can't get here fast enough for me. Praying 2012 is a great year for all of us. Enjoy yourself in your sewing room. Looking forward to lots of new projects from the yellow house!

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On 12/31/2011, Nicole said ...

Happy New Year Susan! Hope 2012 is good to you!

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On 12/31/2011, Ann said ...

Your pink cup says it all!!! Happy New Year.
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A Wee Treasure and Final 2011 UFO Report

This is another recent thrift shop find, White Sew Cute child's sewing machine. Got it for $2.50. It really works, with batteries. No accessories (foot pedal) or instruction manual were with it. So if anybody knows where I might find them (a website or something), please let me know. While I doubt I'll ever use it for serious sewing, I would like to have all its parts just for fun.

Note to Little Green Quilters
Please let me know asap if you plan to continue with the UFO Bust in 2012. I want to update the participant list. We'll start back with weekly progress reports next Friday.

I finished 12 UFOs during 2011 (out of 43) and made substantial progress on five more. By my calculations, that's about 39%. I have three that require binding to be finished, and I'm still hand quilting the "Blackberry Creek" quilt. The French General Snowball quilt has all its blocks constructed, but none of them joined yet. I hope to do a little better in 2012.

Below is Mr. Linky. All you busters, please sign in and let us know how many UFO you finished this year and what, if any, plans you have to continue into 2012. 

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On 12/30/2011, Deb said ...

Hi Susan! Thanks for hosting the UFO Bust again for 2012. Now that we've gotten our feet wet and a year under our belts, maybe we can knock the rest of the UFOs out in record time! Congrats on all your finishes. Yes, count me in for another year! It's been fun!

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On 12/30/2011, Lynn said ...

I finished 14 out of 15 projects this year! I've already got my list started for 2012 so count me in.

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On 12/30/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

What an adorable little sewing machine at such a bargain price, too. Methinks it would be a sweet addition to your sewing room decor - or in any other room for that matter.

I still have my little Singer Sewhandy (hand crank) sewing machine from childhood and it's still in the original box, with booklet, matching C-clamp (tan), and tools.

It seems I finished only 7 of 26 UFOs and donated 3. I also made and finished two projects that didn't become UFOs so that counts for something. I'm in for 2012, too, as I need the encouragement!

Hugs!

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On 12/30/2011, Diane W said ...

I didn't do real well in 2011, but I would like to join again in 2012.

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On 12/30/2011, Julie in WA said ...

Hi Susan! I am definitely in for 2012. This has been the best challenge for me to get moving on existing projects! I am happy with the progress I made this year, and I am looking forwards to seeing how much I can accomplish in 2012.

It is also such fun to see the progress of other Little Green Quilters. I especially like the low-key approach to your "buster plan"--lots of encouragement, little pressure.

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On 12/30/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

I didn't get many of my sewing/quilting projects finished. But the big one--my doll house--I did get it repaired and decorated. Looking forward to finishing a lot of quilt projects in 2012.

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On 01/01/2012, Jen said ...

Another year of UFO busting! I'm in! I completed 5 of my 12 projects. I started a few more UFO's in 2011, so this year I have 12 total projects I want to finish! Let's get these busted! Happy 2012!

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On 01/06/2012, Denise Copeland said ...

Hello Susan,
Thank you for the gracious invitation to join you in a pursuit to ensure that no UFOs are left behind. I would love to participate.

Denise Copeland
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And the Days Dwindle Down

Are they cutting some months out of the year now? 2011 can't possibly have only three more days left. I'm not finished with it yet.

Look what I found yesterday at a local thrift shop--for a dollar! A petit point Mary Englebreit pillow. 

Jesse came over last night and helped me move all the boxes of Christmas decorations into the basement and extra chairs into the attic and Bentley Bear and his desk into my office. Everything is almost back to normal. After all the moving, Jesse and I had a nice visit before he went back home to see what his mom had made for dinner.

I have a hair cutting appointment this afternoon and a date with Pete tomorrow night. Yep, that's still going on.

Gonna go now and see if I can knock a few things off my to-do list this morning.

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On 12/29/2011, Debra said ...

Well, darling, I hate to break it to you; but, when you spend half the day on the computer, the rest of the day just flies by!

Nice to hear about Pete--nothing wrong with a nice male distraction!

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On 12/29/2011, Jan said ...

Happy to hear you've accomplished so much this week! And, I agree...time does fly by before we know it! Enjoy your date with Pete!

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On 12/29/2011, Patti J said ...

Yeah...for Pete.

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On 12/29/2011, Diane W said ...

So glad to hear you had a good Christmas. You are way ahead of me if you have your Christmas boxes already packed and put away. I can't belive it is the end of Dec and the end of another year. My UFO's will have to roll forward.

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On 12/29/2011, Missy said ...

"Yep, that's still going on" Such a casual little remark. :) I'm glad you have things to do and places to go. It keeps the after Christmas blahs away.

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On 12/30/2011, Kai said ...

Love that pillow & glad you had a good visit with sweet Jesse! Oh, how I could use a HELPFUL male sometimes. Ray has gotten quite lazy & it's pretty annoying. LOL! As for your date: YAY! 'Nuff said. (Grin.)
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Santa Arrives--Again

The Mr. and Mrs. Nick panel arrived yesterday, and I immediately put it up on my design wall to admire. Turns out it's not too big for the quilt I plan to make.

I got out my 105 UFO string-pieced blocks from years ago and started tearing the telephone-book paper from the backs of them. (This paper tearing task is the reason they became a UFO in the first place. I thought they were on my UFO list, but can't find them. They'll be on my 2012 list.) During the watching of "The Witches of Eastwick" and a couple of episodes of "Hot in Cleveland," I got all the paper torn off. Now my right hand carpel tunnel is complaining loudly.

There are so many of the string blocks, that I might decide to use them for something else. I have oodles more orphan blocks that I can use for the Santa quilt if I decide not to use the stringies.

I've been making a list (and checking it twice) this morning of all the things I need to get done before the new year begins. I don't think there's enough time, but I'll give it a shot. First thing on the list is to finish putting away all the downed holiday decorations that lie in boxes all over my house. So I best get to getting. Happy Christmas Day 4 to all.

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On 12/28/2011, Annie said ...

Those Santa panels are so darn cute, aren't they? They'll be so much fun to do up with whatever ufo's you have.

Do go slow on your to do list, no overdoing! : )

Annie

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On 12/28/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

What a cute Santa and Mrs. Santa panel! I look forward to seeing what you pair up with it to make your version of the quilt photo you found on-line.

Wish I had lots of orphan blocks, but I don't. Are your string pieced blocks all squares? I look forward to seeing them laid out in various patterns and I agree you should consider using them in a quilt since you have so many. Of course, they'd make jazzy borders, too. Have fun imagining as you rest your overworked wrists.

My Christmas boxes are hither, thither, and yon around here, too.

Hugs!

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On 12/28/2011, Candylei said ...

Hi: I linked over from Rosie Posie. Look at all of your quilting. Beautiful. I am new to pinterest too and I will get it all figured out soon. I hope ;-)
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Pie High

Well, that does it. No more pie for me for a long long time. My body is telling me this morning just how bad I've been this month. I had been feeling unusually well until pie season hit. Now I'm walking around like a centenarian again.

Today I'm off to the grocery store, just after I clean out the refrigerator of bad food (bad as in not good for me, not bad as in gone over), and stock up on fresh veggies, fruit, and white meat chicken.

But before I go, I'd like to share with you some pinnies that I pinned on Pinterest this morning. I'm fairly new to Pinterest and don't have all the nuances of navigating it down yet, some of these might not be credited correctly. If not, I apologize to the pinees whose pins a have purloined.

Source: cvquiltworks.blogspot.com via Susan Ramey on Pinterest

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Source: waterwheelhouse.typepad.com via Susan Ramey on Pinterest

 

Source: lazygalquilting.blogspot.com via Susan Ramey on Pinterest


Source: amisimms.net

 

And no, Big Sister, I haven't forgot your birthday. Happy, Happy Birthday to my sister Joanne, the best big sister a girl could ever have. She taught me to love books, to love learning, and to always be me.

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On 12/27/2011, Ann Marie @ 16 Muddy Feet said ...

That twister tree is really cool! I might have to make one of those. Your sister did a wonderful job teaching you what is important in life.

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On 12/28/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

I hear you on the return to healthy foods! Me, too!

AMIL freezes pies in separate pieces so she can have one occasionally and not feel compelled to eat the whole pie before it goes bad. Perchance you'd want to freeze your leftover pie pieces, too?

Love the quilts!

Hope you feel better soon!

Hugs!

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On 12/28/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Oh, and Happy Birthday to Joanne, too!

:)

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On 12/29/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

Thanks, Suze! I had a great trip to Atlanta. I love all the quilts, too!

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On 12/29/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

And thanks, Barbara Anne!

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On 12/30/2011, Ulla's Quilt World said ...

Hi! Greetings from Finland! Your quilts are so fantastic! It's so nice to find other quilters all around the world! www.quiltworld2.blogspot.com
Yours, Ulla

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On 12/31/2011, Bien said ...

Oh, no, you're still dating. Joking, as my 3-year old grandson would say. God bless you, Susan. Have fun and keep on keeping on. You're a wonderful woman who deserves the best in life.

Don't know if you were able to view this, but it reminded me of Sophie and Skipper when they spent the night out dining...
► 6:49► 6:49

www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVwlMVYqMu4

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On 06/05/2013, Linda Gonzalez said ...

Aw, I loooove the hearts quilt! I wanna learn how to make that one. It's so beautiful!
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Highlights

I couldn't have asked for a better Christmastime. Everything went well, family members were all well, relatively speaking. And no huge troubles came our way. 

I'll use today to rest up a bit, then tomorrow I start putting away Christmas until next year--and in the process, I hope I come across my treetop angel and other ornaments that I'm missing.

Big plans for the new year, some of which will involve some of you, so stay tuned.

Meantime, here are a few pictorial highlights from Chrstimas at the Yellow House.

Bye Bye, Santa. See you next year.

The annual Christmas puzzle

 
Look what Santa brought me!

 
Ramey knows of my love for turkeys.

 
Andy knows of my love for PJs (two beautiful new pairs).

 
India made me a Martha Stewart plastic-bag dispenser in one of my favorite color schemes.

 
Cabbage cooking on Christmas Day

 
Last pie standing

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On 12/26/2011, Donna said ...

Susan,
So glad you had a wonderful Christmas! I love the puzzle of Santa with the quilt :)
Hugs,
Donna

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On 12/26/2011, Sandra Neel Hutchins said ...

It looks like Santa certainly came by your house! Now, if we can both shake off the soreness from all that holiday fun and work, then we'll be ready for the New Year! Love your doggies!!!

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On 12/26/2011, Annie said ...

Oooh, what lovely gifts! That bag is to die for, beautiful.

Wishing you all the best in the new year.

: )

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On 12/26/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Cheers that Santa and family members who love you were all so good to you! The puzzle is beautiful!

Lovely Christmas here, too, and DH gave me silk pjs, silk long johns (too pretty for that name), and other sweet, warm goodies.

I won't be putting Christmas away this soon as I was so late getting it up. We usually leave the decorations up until the 2nd of January - just so they're down by 12th night!

Be good to you!

Hugs!

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On 12/27/2011, Logo Design said ...

Very awesome article you have shared here. I have to confess your incredible effort. Thanks for sharing this captivating article stuff.

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On 12/27/2011, Kai said ...

Love all your pressies!!! Lil' Skipper looks WIPED OUT! LOL! Where was Ms. Sophie? And am I mistaken or is that a pecan pie? I loooooove pecan pie! Don't overdo taking away the Christmas pretties! (I'm a fine one to talk. I was up ALL of Christmas night doing exactly that PLUS scrubbing the house.) Have a BEAUTIFUL Tuesday! LOVE YOU!

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On 05/23/2012, pcb design said ...

Very informative stuff you have shared here. I am glad to visit this awesome blog. Thanks for everything.
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Happy Christmas Day!

 

Soup Night went splendidly. Last night, Christmas Eve, most of us gathered back at Sister Ramey's house for turkey and dressing. And today, Andy and Jesse, and maybe a few more, are coming to The Yellow House for ham, mashed potatoes, and stewed cabbage. 
 

There has been much too much eating, especially of pie (is there anything better than pie?), and reveling, and I'm about ready for a nice long rest.

However, look what I found in Ebay,the pretty santa panels. I couldn't find one just like the Santa panel in the quilt in the post below, but I think one of them will work. When they arrive, I'm going to decide which one I want to use, get out my orphans blocks and scraps, and make a similar quilt. Next Christmas, he'll hang in the spot where my Santa Sampler has hung every Christmas since I've been in The Yellow House.

The colors and prints in the orphan blocks will probably determine which panel I use for the center. Then I'll decide what I want to do with the other two.

  

 I like them all. But it might be the last one, Mr. and Mrs. Santa. I like the colors in it best. But it might just turn out to be too big. The panel is 35" x 58, meant for a door decoration. So we'll have to see.

I hope all of you are having a blessed and beautiful Christmas. It's all rainy and cold here. But that's ok. Better for cozying. Love to all.

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On 12/25/2011, Denise in PA said ...

Merry Christmas, Susan!

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On 12/25/2011, Lynn said ...

Merry Christmas!

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On 12/25/2011, Sandy said ...

Merry Christmas Susan. I think the other two panels would do great in a "giveaway"!!! LOL Get rested up and ready for a brand new year.

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On 12/25/2011, Brenda Kula-Pruitt said ...

I agree. Those colors would be perfect!
Brenda

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On 12/25/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

So glad to hear you and the family have had such joyous times, good foods, and pies to complete your celebrations of this Christmas season.

I love the Santa panels and hope you have a blast turning one or more into Christmas quilts for your home and/or for the home of someone near and dear ..!?! Now you've really made me eager to move a few obstacles to look at the fabric panels I've collected over the years. Yikes! Is each panel a UFO from the minute it came into your home???? If so, I win for more UFOs as dubious as that honor would be.

Merry Christmas, my friend!

Hugs!

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On 12/25/2011, Jan said ...

Merry Christmas to you and your family...people and furry ones! Here's to a wonderful 2012!

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On 12/26/2011, Debbie said ...

Love panels, but never know what to do with them! Now, I do!

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On 12/26/2011, Kai said ...

I think your holiday sounded SPLENDID! Yum to soup night - I could pretty much LIVE on soup! Worn OUT over here. Still have the 4 senior ladies (since Friday at noon) but they'll go back to the nursig facility today after lunch. All other company already left LATE last night. And it was a VERY fun Christmas. After everyone else went to bed, I took all the Christmas stuff down & scrubbed the house! LOL! We never leave anything up after Christmas day. Won't the ladies be shocked when they wake up? Hope you have a restful Monday! I fully intend to do as little as possible! Love you!

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On 12/26/2011, Kai said ...

I forgot! Got so busy yakking! Love the Santa panels & also favor the Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Hope it's NOT too big 'cause it's so pretty! But then, they ALL are!

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On 12/27/2011, Kathy said ...

Merry Christmas. I love your inspiration for the new wall hanging. It will be fun to see your progress when you choose your orphan blocks to surround the panel.
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Santa Quilt and Sleuth Movies

Isn't this a great quilt? I found it on Pinterest. It was originally pinned by the blogger at Nifty Quilts blog. I don't know her name. She found the Santa panel at Goodwill and surrounded him with orphan blocks. If I ever find me a Santa panel like that, I plan to make just such a quilt. I have oodles of orphan blocks.

I suppose you have noticed that I have completely ignored UFO Progress Report for the past couple of Fridays. We'll get back to it after the holidays. Never fear. Just hold on to those UFOs.

Last night on Turner Movie Classics channel, they held a Thin Man marathon, showed all six Thin Man classic movies. I watched the first one, "The Thin Man," and recorded the other five. When all the Christmasing is finished, I plan to cuddle up with Sophie and Skipper and watch them. I love the Charleses, don't you? Especially Asta. The most charming alcoholics I've ever met. Well, I don't think Asta drinks.

Did you know that the dog actor who played Asta was really named Skippy? Almost like Skipper. In fact, my friend Tony (who along with his wife Marilyn are the ones who found Skipper skipping down Zeigler Road) calls Skipper Skippy. So I know Skipper will want to watch the Thin Man Marathon with me. 

But I ramble.

Have a Happy day before the day before Christmas, everyone.

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On 12/23/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

I finished one UFO this week--my dollhouse is decorated for Christmas, although my own house isn't.

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On 12/23/2011, Kai said ...

BEAUTIFUL quilt!!! I mean, what's NOT to love about a happy quilt with SANTA! Right? Oh! I love the Thin Man, too! And - don't laugh - Topper. And ALLLLLL the classic CHRISTMAS movies. Sigh. I am such a sucker for old movies anyway! LOVE YOU BUNCHES & MERRIEST CHRISTMAS TO YOU, MISS SOPHIE, LIL' SKIPPER, AND ALL YOUR FAMILY!!!

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On 12/23/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

LOVE the quilt and methinks I have a Santa panel around here somewhere ...and a few orphan blocks ...!

Nick, Nora, and Asta are favorites here, too, and we never tire of their antics. Myrna was such a beauty and those clothes! Sigh!

Baking today if I get my act together.

Good tidings to you and your kin! Happy Christmas Eve Eve!

Hugs!

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On 12/23/2011, Deb Price said ...

I love the Thin Man movies! Laura and I have been watching them since she was very little. They really are hilarious! Laura's favourite is the one that has Asta's lady friend having puppies and one looks like the Scotty next door!
Hope you have a wonderful soup night with all your family!
Happy Christmas!
Hugs....

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On 12/23/2011, Debra said ...

That Santa panel was one lucky find. I wonder if it vintage or a reprint--any way, it's fabulous!

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On 12/23/2011, Betty @ She's Sew Pretty said ...

That quilt is gorgeous! I haven't watched The Thin Man in years. A Thin Man marathon sounds like a very good thing. Merry Christmas!

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On 12/23/2011, hunnybunny said ...

Happy day before day before Christmas!
So sorry I have been MIA but you have been in my thoughts the whole time. Hope you get to enjoy the weekend.

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On 12/23/2011, Patricia McDonald said ...

The Santa quilt is great. If I find a Santa panel, I know what quilt I'll make. Love, love, love the Thin Man! My favorite is The Thin Man Goes Home. Nick and Nora are such great characters. Merry Christmas to you and the fur babies at the big yellow house! Pat McDonald

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On 12/24/2011, Kentish Keg-Meg said ...

Merry Christmas for tomorrow. Here most jobs done and even bathed the dog who was not so pleased. Enjoy the Festive season.

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On 12/24/2011, Jeanne said ...

Hello Susan, I LOVE that quilt and you could make one with your talent.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas and New Years.
Blessings, Jeanne

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On 02/09/2012, DuPage County Jail said ...

This quilt has an appliqued Santa block in the middle surrounded by paper pieced trees.

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On 02/21/2012, internet marketing for business said ...

Thanks for this tips, I really want to learn stitching and your post helped me a lot.

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On 02/28/2012, creation de societe offshore said ...

Excellent Santa quilt. Great job.

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On 03/24/2012, Alabama felony said ...

The most charming alcoholics I've ever met.

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On 03/29/2012, DUI said ...

I love their looks.
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I Love It When a Plan Comes Together

Everything is almost done. House is clean, shopping is done, presents are wrapped (or bagged), dogs are bathed. I'm going to start making the soup today for tomorrow night's Soup Night celebration. I'll tell a secret: I bought pies already made. I'm really not a bah-humbug person. I'm just embracing my limits this year. It usually takes me a month or so to recover from the holidays. I'm not going to demand of myself more than I can do this year.

I hope all of you are nearing the end of your holiday chores too. And that you have wonderful, fun, peaceful, restful plans for the rest of the season.

Happy Winter Soltice today.

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On 12/22/2011, Pam said ...

Hope you have a great Christmas and New Years.
Wish I had my dog bathed. Thanks for the reminder. DD and her hubs arrive tonight.

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On 12/22/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

Looking forward to Soup Night at your beautiful home!

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On 12/22/2011, Brenda said ...

I love the clothes-line idea for the Christmas cards! What a cleverly, neat way to display them. I like the idea of knowing your limits and not pushing yourself. You should be able to enjoy every moment of the Season.
A very Merry Christmas to you,
Brenda

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On 12/22/2011, Jan said ...

Wishing you the merriest of Christmases with your family! It sounds like you're well on your way!

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On 12/22/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the look of your Christmas card display! What happy colors they add to your lovely decor. The Mary Engelbreit Santa card near the center of the upper row is one I have framed in my living room. It is so sweet!

Well done on being so understanding and kind to yourself this holiday season and for finding alternative ways to provide a delicious repast for your guests.

Today has been exhausting, pleasantly so, but I'm at the end of my rope for today. Yep, totally spoonless. I hope to bake tomorrow, then sit!

Oh, the tree skirt arrived safely at DS1's home last evening and he likes it!!! His sweetie is out of town until tomorrow so she hasn't seen it.

Hugs!

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On 12/22/2011, LaVoice said ...

I finished mine several days ago. I gave up baking when I lost my husband. I let my daughter-in-law do it now. I just sit back and enjoy. Best wishes to you and family during the holiday season.

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On 12/22/2011, inese said ...

Susan, I wanted to wish you and your family a peaceful and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I always enjoy reading your blog whether it's about quilting or furry babies or home decorating. Soup night sounds wonderful!

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On 12/22/2011, Lynn said ...

Merry Christmas to you!
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Fleas Navidog!

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On 12/20/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Flea-free Navidog to you! Love the picture and the way some dogs seem to know to smile when a camera is pointed their way! The cat looks calm if not bright, too. Thanks for the chuckle!

Wrapping gifts today with only two more to arrive, one of which must be mailed to GA. Sigh!

Baking tomorrow, I hope.

Hugs!

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On 12/20/2011, Sandy said ...

That is waaaaayyyyyy too cute

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On 12/20/2011, Ruth said ...

What a hoot! Thanks for sharing.
"Joseph" doesn"t look very happy with his role, and "Baby Jesus" resigned. In fact only "Mary" seems to have the part in the Tableau that she wanted.
Ruth

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On 12/21/2011, Annie said ...

That gave me a chuckle this morning. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Annie

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On 12/21/2011, Vickie Limberger said ...

that is so cute I love dogs too.
thanks for sharing.

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On 12/21/2011, Brenda said ...

A friend sent me one of these in my email yesterday. It sure brings a smile. Aren't they clever!!
SMILE!!
I wish you good health and happiness.
Merry Christmas,
Brenda

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On 12/21/2011, Linda said ...

My first laugh of the morning! Thank you and I enjoy reading your blog!

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On 12/21/2011, Pesky Patti said ...

Oh, the humiliation our best friends go through because they love us so much!!!
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Spam-a-Lam-a-Ding-Dong!

Yes, I know. For the fourth time this year, my email account has been hacked and everyone on earth is receiving viagra ads and suchlike from my email address.

I will no longer be using the aol email address. From now only, my email address is suscleve@yahoo.com. I have to copy a lot of the addresses from my aol email address book so it will be a day or two before that account is shut down completely. But, for some reason probably related to the hacking, I can no longer send mail from there.

I am so sorry for the inconvenience this is causing everyone. Hopefully, when I get it all cleared up this time, it won't happen again. Yeah, sure, and I'm the Queen of England too.

Anyway, in an attempt to continue in the spirit of the season,in spite of the woes and aggravations, I give you this very inspirational piece of artwork.

SPAM NATIVITY

Did you ever?

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On 12/18/2011, betty pellissier said ...

We have bellsouth and that has happened to me too . was told to change your password. Hope it gets better for you

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On 12/18/2011, Debra said ...

Knock on wood but I have had my same yahoo account about 8 years and never has it been hacked.

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On 12/19/2011, Joanne Cage said ...

That "carving" looks sort of like one I have in wood, made in Mexico.

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On 12/19/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

This time I didn't get any spam from your aol address (knock wood) but am sorry this has happened again. What an annoyance! A pox on the spammer!

Interesting Nativity scene. Whoathunk it?

Tree is up and partially decorated! Still have to sally forth to the post office to mail cards.

Hugs!

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On 12/19/2011, teresa said ...

Best use of spam i have seen! Technology brings good with the bad. Hopefully we learn to screen out the bad and relish the good.

Take care

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On 12/20/2011, Brenda said ...

LOL! One way to use SPAM in a GOOD way!! Very creative! LOVE IT!! Sorry to hear about the hacker or hacking...Hope it works our for you.
Have a very Merry Christmas!!
Brenda

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On 10/26/2012, goedkope voetbalschoenen said ...

Zawsze wierzę, że dobre rzeczy są możliwe, i pamiętaj, że błędy mogą być zajęcia, które prowadzą do odkryć. Weź swój strach i przekształcenie go w zaufaniu; nauczyć się wznieść ponad lęk i wątpliwości. Zamień swoje "Worry godziny" na "godzin produkcyjnych".
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Countdown

Have you seen these? I just had to have one. I'm such a pushover for cute.

One week to go! Is everyone excited? The main things I have left to do are wrap gifts and cook soup. Everybody has his own favorite soup: Jesse wants chili, Andy wants chicken corn chowder, India wants white bean, somebody wanted veggie but I forgot who. So I have to decide which ones to make. I'm going to also buy a bunch of containers to have on hand so everyone can take soup home. I don't want to be left with gallons and gallons of soup.

I hope everyone has a terrific Sunday and that you can all find some time during this week before Christmas to relax with a nice hot cup of something and give thanks to God for sending his son Jesus to show us the way. Think on the way too. Sometimes the way gets forgotten, especially during this time of year with all the spending and buying. God bless you all.

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On 12/18/2011, Marydon said ...

This is cute, hadn't seen them
Merry Christmas
TTFN ~
Hugs,
Marydon

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On 12/18/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

The Christmas house Kleenex box is new to me, too. It's cute to the max!

I vote you choose the two soups you want to make and let others make and bring the other soups!

Yes, this is the season to marvel at the miracles and to be thoughtful and thankful.

Hope you're feeling lots better.

Hugs!

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On 12/18/2011, Helen in Switzerland said ...

God bless you too Susan! Hope you have a wonderful week!

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On 12/18/2011, Linda said ...

Cute little tissue house. And good advice about thinking on the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas and God's Blessings to you!

(Susan, just a word to the wise: something has hold of your address book. I received an email from you that was not really from you --it was from that viaxxxx place. I noticed that before I opened it, so I think I'm safe, but you might need to take some steps to get rid of it. Sorry to bear bad news at this time, but I guess there is never a good time for it.)

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On 12/18/2011, Jan S. said ...

Love your soup idea. I'm going to try and file it away in my memory for next year, or maybe another winter gathering.

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On 12/18/2011, Rose said ...

Well, I think that a grandchild's request gets top priority. lol I love the idea of sending soup home with your guests. What a nice "I love you" gift. Try to take breaks while you
do all the cooking and wrapping. Enjoy!

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On 04/18/2012, Debt Recovery said ...

Wow its so cute and small small tissue holding box. It is also sweet santa's workshop. You have done amazing an beautiful work.
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Christmas Time's a'Comin"

Look who slept through movie night.

What were we watching?


 A closer look at the Cardinal Tree


 Tree Topper


Scrabble tile ornament from Barbara


 Sweet little tea cup from Cracker Barrel


 Peace Cardinal


 Artsy Cardinal from Diane


 Some cardinals from Amy and tree pincushion from Cindy M

***
And, of course, I'm linking to Beverly's Pink Saturday Blog Party. 

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On 12/17/2011, Nancy said ...

Hmmmm...Looks like Skipper didn't enjoy "White Christmas"! At least that's what it looks like from my point of view. Your Cardinal tree is wonderful Susan. Thanks for sharing close up photos of it. Hugs...

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On 12/17/2011, Debra said ...

I'd sleep through Movie Night too if I had a snazzy quilted bed like Skipper's bed!

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On 12/17/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Sweet photos! I love seeing Christmas trees up close and hope your cardinal tree brings back wonderful memories.

Hope you're feeling lots better!

Think I'm falling apart after all of the sewing I did in the last weeks. Still, today I got all but a couple of my Christmas cards done, Following your good lead, our Christmas letter was the first thing to fall off of my to-do list. I have writer's cramp, but a clear conscience!!

Hugs!

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On 12/19/2011, Linda Volz said ...

Skipper is just too dang cute!

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On 12/20/2011, Wendy T. said ...

That picture of Skipper on the pillow is adorable. And I love the one on the previous post of the two dogs together. You are an excellent photographer!
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Giving In

I have decided I'm just going to have to edit my holiday to-do list and remove a bunch of stuff. With--what?--eight, seven, nine days to go till Christmas and me in flare mode, I'm bordering on panic. So I got to thinking. Who's going to know if I don't do everything I had planned to do? Probably nobody. Will the rest of my Christmas card list that I haven't mailed yet notice if they don't receive a card from me this year? Maybe, but I'll catch them next year. Will the kids suffer if I give them store-bought gifts instead of handmade? I doubt it.

So adjustments are taking place. No more worrying that I'm lying on the couch reading a book instead of hustling and bustling. Soup Night is going to be the one and only other big thing I'm doing this year.

If my family and friends notice that there are no homemade desserts, no tins of cookies, no handmade gifts, I'm sure they'll understand.

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On 12/16/2011, Pat S. said ...

Good choice Susan. In flare mode we need to remember we come first which is hard to do.I hope today is better for you! Enjoy your chance to read or watch movies. Your family and friends will be glad you took the time for yourself.

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On 12/16/2011, Debra said ...

You can't do it all and it's only wise to decide what you can do. Some of the things we think are necessary, really aren't. I've scaled way back on Christmas and everyone is still happy. If they aren't, Oh Well.

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On 12/16/2011, Jan said ...

I'm so glad to read you've given yourself permission to take a break. It should be about spending time together and not the 'fluff' anyhow! Loved the photo of Sophie & Skipper on your last post! Snuggle up with those two on the couch and take it easy! Your soup night sounds just right!

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On 12/16/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

3 cheers for your wisdom in choosing to be kind to yourself since you don't feel good. As Jan said, us obedient daughters need permission to do something other than what we expect ourselves to do and who is around to give us permission? We are!

Enjoy every minute of being in your lovely home, surrounded by the many joy-joy Christmas decorations you have (many made by you!), and those cuddly dogs who love you so. Hope some real evergreens or oranges with cloves in the are in your home to bring the real Christmas fragrance to your nose as you read or watch Christmas movies.

The flannel quilt is in route to GA a la UPS (yippee!) and am putting the binding on the tree skirt today. I may try machine sewing the reverse side of the binding, too, so please do pray it goes well!

Big hugs!

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On 12/16/2011, Marianne said ...

Now you're getting smart! Christmas will come whether you're lying on the couch or not, so do what's best for you!

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On 12/16/2011, LaVoice said ...

If you need company, let me know.

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On 12/16/2011, Gael said ...

I ditto all these wise ladies! Take care of yourself first :)
Gael

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On 12/16/2011, Sharon M. said ...

Susan, I'm with you on this one! I decided my gift to me this year was to do only what I felt like doing - sad week and month to get through anyway for me and I think my friends will understand.
No baking, no decorating, other than a few little Christmas quilts scattered around, no cards - well, maybe one or two - very few gifts ready to give. Next year I may even just schedule a little trip somewhere warm during December. It's ok.

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On 12/16/2011, Sandra Neel Hutchins said ...

Take care of yourself. The holidays can be rough when sore bodies try to do more than reasonably possible.

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On 12/17/2011, Cindy krelle said ...

You are doing the right thing! I wish I had your strong will to just sit back and relax. I still have 9 quilts to quilt, shopping, wrapping and mailing. If I start now, I might be done by NEXT Christmas. I'm jealous of YOU!! Take care!

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On 12/18/2011, Jan S. said ...

Absolutely! I am cutting way back, and making the extended family's Christmas Eve much more casual. I plan on enjoying Christmas this year, instead of being happy it's over!

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On 12/20/2011, Kay Ellen said ...

I am completely with you on adjusting all the Christmas lists of things to do..my goodness I even have my son's 21st Birthday today?

I decked out our porch and lost momentum after that! ha-ha.

You are right, No one will know what we completed and what we didn't...I think my christmas cards will become Happy New Years cards at this point :)

I am off to have some coffee, and re-think some of this baking I was going to complete...and get the birthday to-do list completed.

Enjoy your week Susan and thanks for your thoughts from the heart:)

Kay
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Les Chiens et La Souffrance

Can you believe these two actually sat for a portrait--together? Actually, I think it was an accident. I just happened to snap at the right time.

The mean green winter pain machine has apparently arrived a little early this year. Usually the cold temps don't debilitate me until sometime in January. And it hasn't even been that cold. But something's going on. I hurt all over, from the tip of my toes to the top of my head. Even my face hurts (no smart-allecky comments, please). My back is giving me such miseries, I can hardly walk. And my right hand is swollen up like a bear paw. Resorting to left-hand hunting and pecking for this post.

I got nothing done yesterday, and I don't have high hopes for today. With only 10 days to go till Christmas, I'm feeling a little panicky. But not too. The only big thing I have planned for here on out is Soup Night on Dec. 23 for the family. And that's not a lot of trouble. A couple of pots of soup and a dessert or two. I'll purchase some pies from Cracker Barrel maybe and some ice cream. Voila! Pie & Soup Night.

But for now, I'm going back to the couch. Maybe I can find a Christmas movie to watch. Saw "White Christmas" on Monday or Tuesday. Saving "A Christmas Story" for Christmas Eve (it's a tradition).

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On 12/15/2011, Sandy said ...

Good morning Susan, I don't know what that title in French says but I assume it has something to do with suffering. Sounds like you have your share. Sorry you're in so much pain. I think if I were you I would check with my doctor and see if you might be having some bad side effects from medication or something. The swollen hand would alarm me. Hopefully you'll be feeling much better soon and the old fibromonster will move on somewhere else. Get better soon.

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On 12/15/2011, Vickie Limberger said ...

Soup night! What a great idea. Can I borrow that idea?
Hope you feel better, and have a nice Christmas.

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On 12/15/2011, Lavender Dreams said ...

I hope you feel better today and enjoy a day of rest! I'm stopping by to wish you a Merry Christmas! Hugs! ♥♥♥

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On 12/15/2011, Linda Volz said ...

Hi Susan -
I'm really sorry to hear you are in so much pain and not feeling well today. I hope you will feel better soon.

Love the picture of your fur-babies, they are so cute. They really do look like they were posing! Miss Sophie is saying "How do I look, is my hair ok?" and Skipper is saying "take the picture already!"

Sending you blessings!
Linda

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On 12/15/2011, Janice schaub said ...

I just love seeing other peoples cute animal family. How cute they are sitting there being so good. I have 4 small poodles and a cat. It's all about them isn't it
Janice

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On 12/15/2011, LindaSchiffer said ...

Oh, Susan, my complete heart-felt sympathy on the pain! I hope you feel better FAST! At the very least, don't feel dejected or down that you aren't busy doing - take time to let yourself heal!

Your furry kids are adorable - petting worthy, I am very sure.

:) Linda

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On 12/15/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the portrait of your two delightful canine kids! Don't they both look angelic?

I also suggest you call the doctor about that swollen hand. You could have had a spider bite but whatever is the cause, it's not normal so should be checked out. So sorry to hear that you're so miserable all over, too. Fibro-monster - BE GONE!

Your plan for a soup and dessert gathering sounds wonderful!

Our traditional Christmas Eve movie is the Edmund Gwin version of Miracle on 34th Street.

The flannel quilt is finished!!!!! I've nearly finished the tree skirt and have only the binding to go. Hey, it took me 3 years to make our tree skirt using someone else's pattern. This request came in June (I think), then I had to invent how to do it, then make it. I think I'm ahead of my usual schedule, but I may be rationalizing!

Hugs!

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On 12/15/2011, Janice Dauksch said ...

I am sorry that arthur is at your house hurting you .

Soup sounds so good and peppermint ice cream for dessert sound good to me .

With my kids we are having pizza and ice cream(what a change for Grandma's Christmas dinner

Your babies picture is so sweet.

I hope you get better quick

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

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On 12/15/2011, Kai said ...

GRRRRRR to Fibro! I hate it! And I hate that it's hurting my sweet friend so much! Find yourself a great movie & just relax with the adorable and VERY photogenic Ms. Sophie & Lil' Skipper! What an awesome picture! LOVE YOU!

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On 12/15/2011, Rose said ...

I'm saying a prayer that the pain will ease up and you can enjoy the next week.

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On 12/15/2011, Pat S. said ...

Susan,your Miss Sophie and Skipper are so cute...I bet they stay near when you don't feel good.My sixteen pound cat knows when my pain acts up and stays close.The cold is causing me to have problems early this year so I sympathize with you.Take it easy and don't let the fibro monster win! Soup night sounds wonderful!!!

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On 12/16/2011, judi0044 said ...

Great photo Susan - such cute pups (when they're not getting into trouble). Happy holidays and feel better!
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BQG Blocks of the Month

September

City Leaves - October 2011
BQG Block of the Month

1. From tan or beige fabric, cut 1 (7” x 10”) rectangle.  

2. Trace pattern pieces (leaf & stem) onto paper side of fusible web such as Wonder Under, Steam-a-Seam, etc. 

3. Following manufacturer’s instructions, adhere pattern pieces to wrong side of fabrics. Use brown or dark green print or solid for stem and a small-scale autumn print (yellow, orange, olive, gold, rust, burgundy, etc.) for leaf.

4. Cut out pieces on solid lines.

5. Place and adhere pieces to approximate center of the 7” x 10” rectangle.

6. Using black thread, machine blanket stitch or machine satin stitch around edge of leaf and edge of stem.

October

 

 



Merry Christmas, Miss Edna!

Miss Edna Quick

My friend Ella let me know that many of you have sent Christmas cards to her sister, Edna. You'll remember that I posted Edna's photo back in March and asked that we help celebrate her birthday by sending her cards. Edna is severely disabled, and she loves receiving cards. Apparently, some of you have not forgotten about this sweet lady.

Ella asked that I post her thanks to all of you who have sent her sister Christmas cards. I thank you too. And if you haven't sent one yet, let's keep Edna's holiday happiness going. I'm going to get my card in the mail to her today. Maybe you could do the same, if you haven't already. If you are new to Blackberry Creek or you don't remember Edna's story, click on the link in the first paragraph.

Ms Edna Quick
P.O. Box 94
Lumber Bridge, NC  28357 

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On 12/14/2011, Linda Volz said ...

Hi Susan -
Thank you for the info about Miss Edna. I'm with her, I love to receive cards, especially Christmas cards and it seems like something that's dying out now.

I remember as a young girl, running down our long driveway trying to beat my sister who's 2 yrs older than me to the mailbox to see who had sent us Christmas greetings.

Then, Mama would put up a string all around our living room walls and we would hang all of the cards up so we could enjoy looking at them all thru Christmas. What a beautiful sight it was, there must have been a hundred of them. I miss those days.

I'm going to send Miss Edna a card and wish her a Merry Christmas!

Blessings to you Susan, I hope you are feeling well today. :-)

Linda

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On 12/14/2011, teresa said ...

I've addressed the envelope and will be adding the card shortly so as to get it in the mail to Ms. Edna today. Thanks Susan! Merry Christmas.

Teresa

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On 12/14/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Thanks for posting Miss Edna's address again as I'd lost it. I have a card ready to mail to her tomorrow!

I remember when Memphis had two mail deliveries during December to deal with the volume of Christmas cards! It was sheer heaven to open cards twice a day. I still send cards, but fewer than I used to because postage is so high. I still love getting cards, too!

Hope you are feeling better and your back has decided to behave nicely and without complaint.

Hugs!
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Please Excuse My Absence

Birmingham Quilters Guild's annual Christmas party

I have several excuses: I've been busy, my back has been hurting, and my internet has been down. Pick one.

I spent the entire morning and half this afternoon working on the sewing room, cleaning and organizing. I made a lot of progress but had to stop before I was absolutely finished because the muscle relaxer and ibuprofen had worn off. And just in time, the internet was back up.

I had a busy busy weekend. Saturday evening, I attended our neighborhood Christmas party at Karen and Paul's. Sunday I attended my church's beautiful Christmas cantata; and after church, Ramey came over and we had a nice supper of collards with sausage and cornbread. Then we watched "Cowboys & Aliens." The movie was fun, but not a masterpiece.
Actually, I passed on two scheduled weekend Christmas parties because of the back problems, and left early from the neighborhood gathering. But I feel like I had a gracious plenty celebrating as it was.

Yesterday, I attended Birmingham Quilters Guild's annual Christmas brunch. The board always supplies the refreshments for the Christmas party. As block-of-the-month chairman, I'm a member of the board. I made Elvis Presley Cake. It was the first time I had made this cake, and boy was it good--and extremely easy. I shudder to think how many calories are in each serving. But that didn't stop me from enjoying a couple of servings. (Dieting is suspended until after the holidays.)

My Elvis Presley Cake

Below are some more photos that I took at the guild party. 

Sheryl tells us about her Christmas Jelly Roll quilts.


 Lisa is making this quilt for her dog Maisy. The prints are all doggie-related.


 Two members of Second Friday Bee made aprons for all their bee's members.

The pattern, "Lilly's Apron," is by Busy Bee Designs, and you can find it HERE!


More aprons, and each one is different.


 This is the guild's Christmas Block of the Month, "Christmas Candy Sticks." Members turned in 56 blocks, which Denise E. won. I'm going to post instructions for all the blocks of the month here on my blog, and I'll try to get to that this week. There has been a holdup getting them on the guild website.


 This blocks maker did some fussy cutting. 


 Virginia B. received this sweet miniquilt from her secret bee sister.

And after Show-and-Tell, it was on to the feast.

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On 12/13/2011, Debby Messner said ...

Hope you feel better. Sounds like you are still being very festive this season already. You are a busy girl. Happy Holidays.

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On 12/13/2011, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the quilts, aprons, BOM, and the feast!

Hope you're feeling lots better and am glad your internet is up and playing nicely again. I missed you!

I was on a roll yesterday and finished large diamond #5 for the tree skirt and was working on large diamond #6, when our neighborhood had a power outage just after we heard a distant Boom! and Pop! sound. That put a stop to the sewing machine so I wrapped some Christmas gifts: me, paper, scissors, tape, a pen, and labels. No electricity needed. Happily, as the sun was low in the sky and it was getting cold, the power came back on just 2 hours after it went off.

Today I finished diamond #6 (the last!!), trimmed all six big diamonds, and have sewn four together, making 2/3 of the tree skirt. I still have lots of handwork and binding to do after adding the last two big diamonds. Hope I get finished so it gets to GA before Christmas!

Didn't mean to write a book!

Hugs!

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On 12/13/2011, door exit sign said ...

Sounds like a great... I impressed by that it such a great festival.. Every picture looking wonderful and impressive.

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On 12/13/2011, Dolores Tanner said ...

I think u should list that Elvis cake recipe!!! It looks yummy!

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On 12/15/2011, Kai said ...

No excuses for absenteeism required, especially at THIS time of year! Heavenly DAYS, Girl! You are WAY more a social butterfly than I am. So many fun activities! I always love seeing the quilters' gatherings! And I LOVE that style apron! To ME, it makes sense. I always receive waist aprons which are, for ME, a ... well ... WASTE. I need coverage on the TOP where I tend to spill & splatter. If I'm frying something & grease pops, or stirring something that tends to bubble and splatter, it DOESN'T land on my lower BODY. And when I wash dishes, I'm ABOVE the sink. So those aprons ROCK! (Ooops. Sorry. Speech over. LOL!) Re: the Elvis cake - I'm guessing it has 'nanas & peanut butter somewhere in the ingredient list. Yum.

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On 03/06/2012, a-frame barricade said ...

Such a great activity done by everyone. Everything is perfect in this post. They are looking so awesome in aprons. I impressed by that great festival.
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