Blackberry Creek: March 2013

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Kaleidoscope

There's an app on my iPad that lets me take all kinds of funky photos. These are some photos I took this morning while I was still in bed with the
kaleidoscope function.

This is the blue-and-yellow basket quilt that hangs behind my bed.

This is the quilt and part of my face.

This is the quilt and my hair.

Now wasn't that fun?

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 03/30/2013, Joanne said ...

About the hair: It's good for a fashion photo, but it would never stay in place for everyday wear.

I hope you know I'm kidding. Cool photos.

On 03/30/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Hummmmmmm.... it seems I'm puzzled by the first photo. Is that the kaleidoscope app's take on the quilt hanging behind your bed or is that the actual quilt itself??? If so, your piecing talents are over the moon amazing.

Hat's off to you for being able to think so clearly and being able to take these amazing photos before getting out of bed. I need to have coffee before doing more than feeding the cats!

Am off to hard boil some eggs so I can dye them after they cool. I believe if you enjoy something, age should never prevent you for continuing to do it. Coloring Easter eggs is one of those things for me. How about for you? :)

Hugs!

On 03/30/2013, Linda said ...

LOL! :)

On 03/30/2013, Pesky Patti said ...

Yikes....thanks for the nightmares tonight! LOL

On 03/31/2013, Laura said ...

Dear Susan,

I am keeping you in my prayers this Easter Sunday. I pray for your health and spirit. I wish you joy.peace and love.
You have blessed me in so many ways this year and I am glad I "found" you on the web. Hugs, Laura
-----

Friday, March 29, 2013

Good Friday 2013

In addition to the block-a-day (sometimes more) I'm adding to my Granny Square effort at the sewing machine, I've been doing a little handwork on my Little Pink Houses blocks too.

I like doing handwork. I'm not really good at blanket stitch, but like hand quilting, I find the repetitiveness of it to be relaxing, sort of zenlike.

The knee is much improved, at least painwise, so much so that I'm seriously considering postponing my surgery until I can get a few other things out of the way and give the thought of surgery my full attention. I called the doctor's office today, but everyone is out for the holiday weekend. I have to call back on Monday. And unless my knee returns to its full-blown misery of the last few weeks, that surgery is getting postponed.

Sister Joanne and Handsome Nephew Jed came over last night for a long overdue game night. We played three spirited rounds of Dixit, ate raw veggies and humus that Jed had brought and pineapple angel food cake that I whipped up.

Pineapple Angel Food Cake is a new recipe I found on Pinterest. Easy Peasy. Pour a box of angel food cake mix in a bowl. Add a 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple. Mix it up thoroughly, no beating necessary. Pour batter into 9" x 13" baking dish that has been sprayed with baking spray. Bake in a preheated 350 degree over for 25 minutes. Serve as is or with whipped topping. Major yum.

Sad duty today: I'm attending the funeral of a good man and friend, a member of my church and long time resident of our community, also husband to my high school P.E. teacher. My sister Joanne is going with me and my friend Sherry. I expect it to be a packed house.

Good Friday blessings to all of you, along with my hopes that you all have a safe and wonderful Easter Sunday celebration.

Now just look what some-cat-body has done!

Not me.

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 03/29/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

I love your pretty appliqued hearts and think your blanket stitches are just fine. Applause!!

How wonderful your knee is playing nicely with your and even allowed you to make the pineapple angel food cake. Do you drain the pineapple?

What fun the game night must have been!

Hope you took a photo of your Granny Square arrangement before all came tumbling down. Otherwise, you start from memory or start all over.

Sympathy to all who loved your church member and friend.

Hugs!

On 03/29/2013, Jan said ...

Best wishes for a wonderful Easter! Hope your knee continues to improve! Crazy cat(s), huh?!

On 03/29/2013, Linda said ...

I like your blanket stitches too! Your post sent me to Pinterest to check out the cake and am planning to make it. Sorry but I'm laughing about the mess in your room. I heard lots of scuffling while in bed one night and Katy the kitty had scattered things in a very similar fashion n my sewing room. Good times! ;) So glad your knee is better!

On 03/31/2013, Jed Cage said ...

That was an amazing cake! And you took the prize at Dixit - literally and metaphorically. I hope the rest of us get some revenge. -- Jed
-----

Thursday, March 28, 2013

Cats O'Plenty

One cold cold morning last week, Andy came home from work to find a kitty cat on her front porch. The kitty cat was obviously female and extremely pregnant. It appeared not to have a home.

I don't believe there's a person in my family who is able to turn her back on a needy animal; Andy and my sister Ramey are two of the worst. So of course, Andy welcomed the little kitty into her "House of Cats." (She already had three adopted kitties.)

This kitty, who's name is either Mama Cass or Yoko or Mama Cat (I've heard all three) hunkered down and straight away gave Andy five more kitties to add to the menagerie that is her home. The first two were born up inside Andy's box springs under her bed, the mama kitty having gained access to the area through a hole opened by one of the other kitties.

When Andy found the would-be maternity ward, she transferred the little family to the box she had prepared for them. There, three more babies arrived.

So Andy probably now qualifies as an animal hoarder, and at the very least A Crazy Cat Lady. That's nine cats, counting the new mama and babies, all of them rescues or shelter kitties.

The new babies will be ready for adoptive parents and new forever homes by the end of summer. So if you or someone you know in driving distance of us would love a beautiful cat to add warmth and love to your home, let us know. The kittens look very much like their mama, who is a beautiful cat. Two or three have already been spoken for.

Here's Mama. Look at those beautiful eyes.

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 03/28/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

How precious!

I cannot comment about Andy's soft heart since I did the same thing when Boots was yowling at our side door back in July, 2004. We're confirmed dog people, but when I opened the door that day, a petite grey tabby ran inside, curled up on the dog bed, looked at me with woeful eyes asking what on earth was happening to her, and promptly had 3 kittens. Two were black and white little girls and the third was a tri-color tabby male. Our next door neighbor had named the mama cat "Boots" because of her white feet but she supposedly belonged to his neighbor on the other side who also had two huge Rottweilers. Apparently, Boots didn't think much of her pet bretheren, and left home for safer digs. We still have Boots and her tri-color son who is known as Tom or Ton o'Tom. He is 9 years old and is not petite.

We're not in driving distance, but I'll say an official no thank you to the kitten offer.

Wishing Andy well and I hope good homes are found for the remaining kittens. Meanwhile, enjoy the kittens!

Hugs all around!

On 03/29/2013, M said ...

Just a warning for Andy from what a vet told me years ago, a female cat can get pregnant again almost immediately after giving birth. So, if Andy's thinking of keeping the mama cat a trip to the vet's soon is in order. The kittens are adorable by the way.

On 03/30/2013, Kristine Walker said ...

Remind me when they are 11-12 weeks old. If you've not found enough homes by then I'll take one. Tell Andy I'd be happy to share my "Crazy Cat Lady" title with her:)
Hoppy Easter, and much love to you and yours

Kristine
-----

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

I'd Rather Be Quilting

How I hate this task! Even though I have someone else prepare my actual tax return, I have to gather all the information and give it to her. And since retirement income, at least in my case, seems a lot more complicated than non-retirement income, I never know when I have the records complete to turn into her.

That's what I've been doing all morning, and I think, just maybe, I have everything documented.

I always put the chore off until the last minute because I hate doing it so much. Every year, I vow that I will get it all out of the way early in the year. But that never happens.

Thank you all for your well wishes on the possible upcoming surgery. I say "possible," because now my knee seems to be improving. Compared with the pain I was having for the past few weeks, it's a zillion times better. I can walk without limping. I can sleep lying down in my bed instead of sitting propped on pillows. There's still some swelling though, and that might be a problem.

I'm going to give the condition another couple of days and if it continues to improve I'm going to call and talk to my doctor about the possibility of at least postponing surgery until a later date. I just have so much on my proverbial plate right now. I'd rather not have one more thing, one more BIG thing, if I can avoid it.

Today I have to make a trip to the printer and to the fabric store. Then I hope to spend the rest of the afternoon peacefully sewing a bit.

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 03/27/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

I'm right there with you in hating this task each April. I agree that it was easier when just about all it took was transferring the numbers from the statement sent by employers in Jan. and any investment statement sent by brokers or banks. Sigh!

Cheers that your knee is feeling so much better!!!! May the improvement continue so you really don't need the surgery or at least don't need it yet. Even if your doctor is the sort that says "Let's take a look anyway" you can still say NO.

Have fun on those errands and I applaud your plan to end up at the fabric store.

Hugs!
-----

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Down Scope

I just had a call from Dr. Nichols' P.A. Kim. There's good news and bad news. The good news is that I don't need knee-replacement surgery (Yipee!!). The bad news is that I have a bad tear in my knee cartilage, which needs to be fixed with scope surgery. Not half as bad as knee replacement, I'm sure. But still a bother.

I had my right knee scoped in 2002. That's the one I don't remember anything about, and that bothers me. But what the heck. If I don't remember this one either, it will be no big loss.

I'm scheduled for surgery Wednesday morning, April 3. And I have a ton of stuff to do to get ready.

First I have to finish getting my block-of-the-month packets ready to hand off to someone else to give out at the April guild meeting and to collect blocks and conduct the drawing. Of course, I have to line up someone to do that. I know it won't be difficult. I've had numerous people offer their help this year.

I'm going to get Jesse, maybe with his mom's help, to move my computer downstairs. I have my iPad, but I can't blog on it. At least I haven't figured out how to, if there's a way.

I'm also going to get him to carry my Singer Featherweight sewing machine downstairs and my ironing board, Accu-quilt cutter, cutting table, and sewing supplies that I will organize and put in boxes. Kim said I will be on crutches or a walker for a while (she didn't say how long "a while" is), so I doubt there will be a lot of stair climbing for that while.

I want to thank all of you for your good wishes and prayers. I haven't got around to answering all of you who have left comments, but know that I read every one, sometimes more than once, and appreciate all of them--as well as all you blog readers who don't comment. I know there are lots of you, and I appreciate you too.

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 03/26/2013, Lynn said ...

I'm sorry to hear you will require surgery, but glad it's not a total knee replacement! Thinking of you. Hugs!

On 03/26/2013, Kerrie said ...

I just love the quilt blocks, so perfect as always of your work! ♥

On 03/26/2013, Nancy in Utah said ...

Hi Susan! So glad to hear you don't need a knee replacement. I've had the scope repair done twice with good results both times and my hubby has had his done twice. The last one was done when he refused the replacement surgery because of his job, so they did the scope to clean out the crud and repair the cartilage, telling us it would get him by for MAYBE one year. Susan, that was 6 years ago and his knee hasn't bothered him since, LOL. He was only on crutches for two days and then used one of my canes for another week. But he was driving less than a week after surgery and recovery was a breeze. I was also off crutches in three days after my scope. Also we live in a split entry home...there are stairs no matter what and neither of us had trouble with that as long as we were sensible and careful. The doctor told us to avoid them as much as possible for the first couple of days and if we were on pain meds, but other than that, he said it was good PT and would help in recovery, again, as long as we were sensible about it. So, I'm keeping you in my prayers for as easy a recovery as hubby and I experienced and freedom from that darned pain you have suffered so much of. One note on that horrible pain. Both my hubby and I found that the pain and discomfort from the surgery was not any where near as bad as the pain before the repair was done. Thinking only good thoughts for you. Take care of yourself and don't overdo...that is one of the dangers of feeling better so soon after surgery. Good luck and big big hugs...

On 03/26/2013, Joanne said ...

"April is the cruellest month. . ." So many birthdays, so many medical tests and procedures! I'm glad you don't have to have knee replacement, sorry you have to be "Scoped" and live downstairs for a while.

On 03/26/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

I'll be thinking of you Susan - hopefully it will turn out not to be a big deal and you'll heal up and be as good as new again before you know it! Take care my friend!

On 03/26/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the quilt blocks!!

Many CHEERS that you don't need a knee replacement!!

As a surgery nurse with decades of experience, I can assure you that if you'd like to reschedule your arthroscopy for some time later (days, weeks?) so you can have more time to prepare, tell your doctor that. The procedure can be done at your convenience.

Be sure to have someone stay with you overnight the first night at home and perhaps even for a couple of days and nights. You may not need the help, but it's nice to have someone there to keep you company.

You're wise to prepare for first floor living to save yourself bother, pain, and stairs.

The reason you don't remember much about your previous 'scope procedure is probably thanks to a wonderful medicine we called the "happy to be here" medicine that does erase memory for a short time. Most folks who have this medicine in an outpatient surgery center have no memory of surgery and don't even remember how they got home (which is why they're not allowed to drive themselves home!!).

Wishing you WELL!

Hugs!

On 03/26/2013, Jan said ...

Wishing you the best results possible! Doctors have 'scoping perfected & I know you'll be pleased with the results! I'll be thinking the good thoughts for you!

On 03/26/2013, Linda said ...

Thanks for giving us the date - that will be placed on my calendar for extra praying!
Please don't feel you have to answer my comments - I will relieve you of that duty. ;) I have been drawn to your blog for your humor and sharing of your pets' lives and your marvelous quilting adventures and because, well, I like you!
Yes, let Jesse help you - my guess is that he will be pleased to do something for you.
Love the blocks!

On 03/26/2013, suzanne said ...

wisjing you the best of luck with your surgery. I hope you have a speedy recovery. I'll be thindking of you..

On 03/26/2013, Linda said ...

Good news! An answer to prayer. April is coming up fast; soon it will be over and done with. And one less pain to deal with.
Blessings!

On 03/26/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

This knee repair stuff seems to be going around! Glad you don't need the whole knee replaced. Hope your procedure comes off perfectly and that you're up and around (pain free) soon.
-----

Monday, March 25, 2013

I'm Channeling Grumpy Cat

If you're a frequenter of Facebook, you're probably familiar with this face. If you don't do social media, let me introduce you.

This is Grumpy Cat, the cat with the permanent bad attitude. Her real name is Tartar Sauce. She is an eleven-year-old mixed breed, lives with her owner Tabatha Bundesen, in Morristown, Arizona, and is affected by feline dwarfism. Not only is she a foul-mouthed star of Facebook, this furry feline has spawned a marketing blitz. You can find her on such things as t-shirts, coffee mugs, and who knows what all. Want to know more? Just google "Grumpy Cat."

This reason I bring up this bad-tempered beast is that I'm beginning to sound and act just like her I fear. It occurred to me yesterday that I am developing a tendency to speak sharply to friends and family and to complain when no complaint is warranted. My smile is little in evidence these days, and I don't laugh as much as I used to.

Why do you think I'm turning into a human version of Grumpy Cat? Could it be constant pain is making a grouch out of me? It's not like I can put it aside for a bit while I have a pleasant conversation with a loved one. It's there, the pain is, screaming for attention, not allowing me to have a moment's privacy to be myself. Damn pain! Damn it, I say.

The knowledge of what a curmudgeon I've become gives me pause to think about how really fortunate I am. There are people right this minutes, suffering with pain much more severe than mine, people without friends and family to support them, without the material blessings that I enjoy.

I have to fix this attitude. I can do little about the pain right now except what I'm doing. But I can find that smile and put it back where it belongs--on my face.

Like this!

Now you smile too, Gumpy Cat. Don't let that dwarfism thing steal your joy.

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 03/25/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

So sorry to hear you pain persists. Have you any lovely pain pills you could take (with food so they have a good landing place) and serenely zone out? That sort of living better thru chemistry would likely provide you the relief you need from the pain. Methinks this is the time to tell you doctor you need the big guns of anti-inflammatory and pain medicines.

Parhaps, too, your pharmacist and doctor need to take another look at the possibility (however small) that some of this is an allergic reaction since it seemed to start when you started taking some new meds.

I'd not seen Grumpy Cat and had no idea that there was a feline version of dwarfism.

LOVE the smiley cat's expression!!

Hope you feel lots better soon! This has gone long enough.

Hugs!

On 03/25/2013, Wanda D. said ...

I especially enjoyed your blogpost today. It made me smile, and it also made me think. Am I too turning into Grumpy Cat? Oh no! I hope you feel better soon. Maybe if spring ever gets here.....

On 03/25/2013, Linda Kay said ...

Sorry to hear you are having unremitting pain - it can be so wearing to deal with. Like water on a stone, wearing away at you. Trying to find some humor can lighten it all a bit. The cat that I find the most entertaining is Henri the French cat suffering from ennui. He makes me laugh every time!

On 03/25/2013, Valerie said ...

You are such a joy even when you are hurting! Praying for you.

On 03/25/2013, Linda said ...

And in spite of it all you are making US laugh. Sending positive thoughts and smiles your way. Thanks for introducing us to Grumpy Cat. :)

On 03/30/2013, Gail said ...

When one lives in pain, sometimes you can put on your "game face" and be pleasant while pain becomes musack, background nose. However, sometimes the burden of carrying the inconvenience and constancy of pain makes me Mrs Crankypants. I try to regroup, and then ask forgiveness from others . Managing the size of pleasant energy I have versus amount of activities and interpersonal interactions is a daily balance. I have learned to forgive myself when I stretch too far and become cranky.
Hope you get healing soon
-----

Saturday, March 23, 2013

The ABCs of MRIs

My first MRI experience took place in something that looked very much like this. For someone who has suffered from claustrophobia her whole life, it was a horrifying experience.

My, how times have changed. Yesterday's experience was almost a non-event, at least compared with my time spent in the first contraption.

In 1993 when I had my first MRI (cervical spine), it was a traumatizing experience. I was put into a tube that was closed on one end, the tube part just large enough for my body to fit into. The technician outfitted me with ear phones and tuned to a station of my choice, but he didn't bother to tell me not to open my eyes, which I did. What I felt was what someone who has been shut into a coffin without being dead feels. The top of the tube was no more than two inches from my face, if that. I quickly squeezed my eyes shut and tried to calm my racing heart. Claustrophobia runs in my family, and it didn't skip my generation.

My next MRI, for my shoulder, was not quite as bad. That, I believe, was in 1999. I was ready this time. I think I closed my eyes before we ever got to the lab and didn't open them until I was well sure that I was out of that tube. I did peak long enough to see the machine I was going into though, and as I recall, it was much less intimidating looking than that first one. Still closed at one end though.

In 2002, I had my right knee MRI'ed after falling on the front steps with wee puppy Sophie and tearing my meniscus tendon. That one, strangely, I don't remember. In fact, I don't remember anything about much of any of that incident, except the injury itself. I don't remember the doctor visits, the MRI, going for the surgery, coming home from the surgery, physical therapy--nothing. If I didn't have some scars on my knee to prove it, I wouldn't be sure I had even had the surgery. Shortly after that surgery, I began have fibromyalgia symptoms, and I can't but believe that either the anesthesia or the surgery itself had something to do with my fibro-malady.

But yesterday was nothing like my first two MRIs. I have no idea, of course, how it compares with my other knee MRI. The tube has been greatly shortened since my first time, and it's now open at both ends. In addition to that, my body went into the tube only up to my chin. And the whole thing lasted less than 20 minutes, unlike my first two that seemed to go on and on and on.

I await now to hear from my doctor with news, I hope and pray, that whatever is wrong with my knee won't require surgery. What with the weird experience I had with my knee surgery almost 11 years ago, and with all the goings on at The Yellow House, surgery and being laid up recuperating is the last thing I need. So please join me in prayer that my knee can be fixed some other way.

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 03/23/2013, Joanne said ...

My first MRI was in the closed tube, but an attendant was kind enough to tell me to keep my eyes closed if I was claustrophobic.

I hope and pray that surgery isn't required. Lord knows you've had enough. If they do say surgery, I wish you'd get a second exam/opinion.

On 03/23/2013, Sylvia said ...

My prayers are with you. Hoping you find relief soon. Also, love your granny squares

On 03/23/2013, Carol Ann Hood said ...

I will remember you in my prayers about you knee.
Please tell me where you got this last MRI. I've been gettng MRIs for over 20 years every 2 years and last years experience was the worse ever. My head was leaning back so far that my throat kept closing up and I felt like I was choking. I don't think I can go back to the same place agan.
Thanks for any info.

On 03/23/2013, Linda said ...

Prayers sent.

On 03/23/2013, Bonnie said ...

Exactly why I came back to your blog on a Saturday night: to offer prayers for the healing of your knee. Thinking of you, Susan! And greetings from Minneapolis, where the snowbanks refuse to budge, at least to date!

On 03/23/2013, Valerie said ...

Praying with you and for you! My Sweet hunter hates MRI's too! He just can't do it. They have to sedate him even with the open MRI's!

On 03/23/2013, Linda said ...

You are in my prayers!

On 03/24/2013, Pesky Patti said ...

You will be in my thoughts for sure. The idea of you trying to recuperate in the "Wild Kingdom" of your Yellow House is scary...if you do have to have surgery, perhaps you can fly down to Aruba for the procedure and Ramon, the cabana boy, will tend to your needs...

On 03/24/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

I'm sending them up!! At least after the mri you'll know exactly what is wrong - isn't technology clever! Hopeing and praying it can all be sorted out easily!

On 03/24/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

You're certainly in my prayers that you'll heal without surgery. Of course, Patty's suggestion of Aruba and a cabana boy might make recovery a totally relaxing and wonderful experience. Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps!

MRI machines are lots more user-friendly now that they're more open. I've heard of many folks who found out they were really bothered when in the older closed machines.

We've had a wintery mix falling for hours and it's cold here! More is in the forecast for the coming 36 hours.

Hugs!

On 03/24/2013, Diane W said ...

I had my first MRI last month, not bad, I could have gone to sleep if it had not been for the noise,but I don't mind close spaces. No one told me to take music and earphones with me. Will keep you in my prayers.

On 03/24/2013, Dolores Tanner said ...

I had my 1st MRI last week, no big deal..and I was worried too, probably due to stories of the 'old' machines. they found nothing, so on to alternatives :) whee!! Here is hoping they also find 'nothing' serious in yours!!!!
-----

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

I Knee'd Some Relief

Here's another beauty to add to my "To Be Made" list. In fact, I have made a copy of this picture and placed it in the bin with all my pink fabrics. So right after I finish the Granny Square quilt and the shirt quilt and the Many Trips and the Dollhouse and Pink Houses and about a half dozen other projects, I'm going to make it.

I'm waiting for the insurance company's approval for the MRI on my knee. It has been almost a week now since I called my doctor. What is it with health insurance companies? Do they just not care that someone is in extreme discomfort and only they can do anything about it?

I got a knee brace yesterday and have been wearing it. It seems to be helping just a little, but a little is better than none. Sleeping for more than a couple of hours at a time is impossible. I woke up at 5:00 this morning with the knee screaming with pain and Taco doing the Harlem shake on top of my legs. After getting myself untangled from the covers, pillows, and animals, I got up and made coffee. I went back to bed with a steaming cup and my book for a couple more hours. I'm reading Mrs. Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children--and I'm loving it.

I have been busy this morning writing instructions for guild blocks of the month and an article for our guild's newsletter. I'm going to make a Granny Square block or two, then I think I'll go downstairs and cuddle up and a couch full of critters and read some more.

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 03/20/2013, Linda said ...

That is a pretty quilt. Makes my mouth water, thinking of strawberries and cream. Must be the first day of spring or something; I've got strawberries on the mind.

Your knee'd gave me a chuckle. Do hope your ins co gets on the ball for you.

On 03/20/2013, Joanne said ...

That quilt is lovely - prettiest color arrangement in the world. (I love pink, too.) Reminds me of some kind of pink candy that had dark red gummy bits in it.

On 03/21/2013, sillysally said ...

I just had to giggle when picturing Taco doing the Harlem Shake on your legs! Love that white/pink/red quilt. Hope you get your MRI approval soon. REAL soon!

On 03/21/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the pink Log Cabin quilt. Hope you feel great when the time comes for you to make it and you can call it "In the Pink"! Of course, I hope you feel great long before you get thru with your UFO list.

Many of my fabric bundles have patterns tucked in so I remember what I planned to do with each one. Often, my plans have changed with I get to each bundle ...

If I were you, I'd call the doctor's office to find out the date of their request to the insurance company. Then call the insurance company to raise Cain about their slow response when you are in such pain. Hope you get that approval and much kneeded relief very soon.

Hugs!

On 03/21/2013, Helen said ...

Hope that the MRI is approved soon! You might call your doc and request "either pain pills....or push for approval"....not right that you should have to through the weekend waiting in pain. By the way.....really enjoying the cookbook....and love that you contributed your hummingbird cake recipe!

On 03/21/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

Oh, Susan, I'm so sorry things are dragging on with the MRI. Meanwhile, that lovely pink quilt makes me drool. Hope you're improved soon.

On 03/22/2013, Deb said ...

Hope your MRI gets approved soon, understand what it's like to be in pain. Where did you get your instructions for the granny squares, I'd love to make one of those...they're very nice.

On 03/23/2013, suzanne said ...

hope your feeling better. Thinking of you.
-----

Monday, March 18, 2013

Grannies on Point

I'm considering placing my granny square quilt blocks on point. I think they look more like crocheted granny squares that way. But I love them the other way too. Thank goodness I still have some time before I have to decide.

If I place the blocks on point, I'll need 63 whole blocks instead of the 80 I'll need the other way. But the on-point layout will require several half blocks to fill in around the edges. So probably about the same amount of sewing.

Which do you like best?

Grannies or Point?

Or Grannies this Way?

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 03/18/2013, Joanne said ...

I like the original set. I like them both, but prefer the one in the second photo.

On 03/18/2013, Nancy in Utah said ...

Both settings are really pretty, but I like the 'on point' the best. I think because when I was 8 years old, my grandmother helped me put together my first crocheted Granny Square afghan and though I didn't know it had a design name, she had me sew the squares together in an 'on point' setting and it was gorgeous. So I'm a little bit biased, LOL. Gorgeous blocks Susan, in either setting. Hugs...

On 03/18/2013, Jan said ...

I like on point, but that's because mine are set that way! Whichever way you choose, they'll be pretty! You can't go wrong!

On 03/18/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

I like both settings, too, but am a bit more partial to the straight set. Your quilt will be delightful no matter which setting you choose because your Granny Squares are so happy!

If you go with the pretty on-point option, I'd use setting triangles instead of partial Granny Squares. If you used a light fabric similar to your background fabric for the setting triangles, your Granny Squares would appear to float within the border(s).

This is one thing I love about quilting: ALL of the choices from block to fabrics, to color placement, to setting, to borders, backing, and binding, are up to you. Sheer creative freedom!

Hugs!

On 03/18/2013, Julie in WA said ...

I don't think you can go wrong setting the blocks either way...they look so pretty! But I do like the straight setting more than the on-point setting.

On 03/18/2013, Sue, the Florida Farm Girl said ...

On point, without a doubt. Once you do the calculations right for the setting triangles, its not too bad. But sometimes I just don't want to bother with the on point, so do it the other way. Whichever you choose will be wonderful.

On 03/18/2013, Sandra Neel Hutchins said ...

The fun is in the creativity! So YOU enjoy choosing. I like the straight set better. Either way, of course, the colors will create such a peaceful, and at the same time, perky quilt.

On 03/18/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

I like both settings - but isn't it amazing how different from each other they look!

On 03/18/2013, Teresa said ...

I like the straight set - Granny's way. Its going to be a fantastic quilt whichever way you choose.

On 03/18/2013, RED GERANIUM COTTAGE said ...

I love both ways but I think straight is what I like. The blocks are so pretty.

On 03/18/2013, Sue said ...

I always think on point looks cleaner and more interesting. I make a lot of 9 patch scrap blocks and always turn them on point.

On 03/18/2013, Ellen in Oregon said ...

I am a bit partial to the on point because you get a more intresting & complex secondary designs. I totally agree with Barbara Anne that if you do them on point I would would use a light tonal fabric for the setting squares rather than Half blocks. I love it when the blocks appear to float in space. I guess the straight set is great if you want a simple quieter traditional look & the on-point is more complex, pops the colors & has greater depth to it.

You've made great progress with the blocks and should be very pleased with how great the colors look. Can't wait to see what you decide.No matter what you do, it is going to be beautiful. Granny on!

On 03/18/2013, Deb said ...

I'd pick on point...just seems to look classier! :) They're all beautiful, Susan.

On 03/18/2013, Linda said ...

At first I thought I like the straight set best (I love them both), but I have to say the colors really jump out at me on-point. Plus I agree with you that they look more like crocheted granny squares on-point. They are really beautiful.

How are you feeling - hope you heard from your doctor today and that it was good news.

On 03/19/2013, Laura said ...

I am 100% a on point vote. I agree it looks more crocheted on point. Hugs
-----

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Top 'o the Marnin' to You

From Taco, Bella, Sophie, Skipper, Jesse, and SuSu
(My, how The Yellow House has grown.)

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY TO ALL OUR
BLOGGING FRIENDS

Dedicating this post to the memory of my my Irish ancestors, the Miskelleys, none of whom I remember because they had all passed on before I got here.

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 03/17/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Top 'o tha mornin' to you, too, darlin' girl! I'm wearing green in honor of my Irish ancestors, too. When the boys were small, I always put green food coloring in the mashed potatoes or rice to bring a bit 'o color to dinner time - and to our teeth!

Today is rainy, cold, miserable weather and we may have snow tonight. I hope to sew but havein't started yet.

Hugs!

On 03/17/2013, Valerie said ...

Right back at you!!!
-----

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Laura's Dollhouse Report

Our dollhouse quiltalong member Laura has really been busy on her blocks. Just look at these.

"Here is the front door area" writes Laura. "Still have to tack down the skate straps and add the white begonias to the plant by the door after the whole quilt is done. The movie 'Mary Poppins' came out when I was in elementary school. We all went to see it as a class field trip. You may recognize the Mary Poppins-like umbrella we kids gave my Grannie for Christmas."

And here's a look at Laura's first two stories, along with some front lawn, sewn together. Isn't this just the most charming quilt you've ever seen. Or at least up there at the top. I am on absolute tenterhooks waiting to see a photo of Laura's fully completed dollhouse. I know it's going to be a prize winner.

I've been at work making more granny quilt squares today. I'm still waiting for the doctor's office to call about my MRI. If I haven't heard by Monday, I'll call them back. The situation with my knee is no better.

Jesse has gone with his friend Joe to North Alabama to a buggy ride. That's Jesse's hobby, his dune buggy. He works on it constantly and rides when he has a chance and some extra money to fill its gas tank, which takes very expensive racing fuel. Below are a couple of photos that Jesse took.

They have a beautiful day for a ride. Sunny, clear, and a little windy. I hope they have a great ride and return safely.

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 03/16/2013, Valerie said ...

I LOVE those Dollhouse quilt along squares! Oh my! I would love to try something like that! Gorgeous! Still praying for you.

On 03/16/2013, Joanne said ...

Love Laura's quilt, and Jesse's buggy. Hope your knee gets better soon.

On 03/17/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

What utterly charming doll house blocks Laura has created! Her many delightful touches from the Mary Popping parrot head umbrella in the umbrella stand on the front porch to the many other special additions in the interior rooms we've seen. Applause, applause!!!

Hope Jesse and his friend had a wonderful time and good weather for their trip. We had sunshine and 71*F Saturday and our first thunderstorm in the evening.

I'm sorry to hear your knee is no better. Wishing you WELL!

Hugs!
-----

Friday, March 15, 2013

Granny Group Grows

Here they are so far--twelve granny square blocks. I calculate I'll need 120 blocks to make a queen-size quilt with a good drop on each side (85" x 102"). I would only need 80 blocks to make a 68" x 85" quilt. So depending on whether or not I get sick of making granny squares before I ready my 120 goal, this quilt might turn out to be the smaller size. So far, I'm having lots of fun making them.

I'm waiting for a call from my doctor's office. They are setting me up for an MRI on my knee. The pain has not subsided. In fact, it has got much worse. And now my leg, ankle and foot are swollen. I've checked with doctor and pharmacy to see whether or not the swelling could be caused by any of the meds I'm taking (Thanks, Barbara!), and neither thinks so. So it is apparently originating in the knee. And boy! Does it hurt! Even at night when I'm trying to sleep.

I got my Easter swap tags finished yesterday. And I know I promised photos, but then it crossed my mind that I want the members of the swap to see them first. So my pics yet.

I'm going to see how many granny squares I can make this morning before this darn knee sends me back to bed.

And remember, everyone. It's the Ides of March. So beware.

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 03/15/2013, Kai said ...

Boy, do I EVER sympathize with knee pain. Hope the tests show the problem so the doc can FIX it! And the quilt? Sigh! REALLY pretty!

On 03/15/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Love your growing group of Granny Squares! Each one is a charming combination of cheerful fabrics and colors! Applause! Methinks when you've had your fill of making these blocks, borders can enlarge the quilt to the size you want it to be.

I looked up the name of the medicine your doctor started you on and it does have a sulfonamide in it's chemical makeup, but it is a variation that most folks who are allergic to sulfa can tolerate. Most means not all of them, of course. Bearing in mind that anyone can become allergic to new or old things at any time (called "acquired allergies") be aware that you may still have, if not an allergy, an unacceptable side effect to a new medicine. Hope you feel lots better without any swelling soon!

Be good to you!

Hugs!

On 03/15/2013, Valerie said ...

Those Granny Squares are amazing! I sure hope you get some relief soon from your pain. Praying for you.

On 03/16/2013, rgammi_39@msn.com said ...

Was introduce to Pinterest a few weeks ago. (Where have I been?) Found your blog. Love your notes, quilt ideas and book recommendations. Know we would be coffee friends if lived closer. Praying for you and results of MRI so your doc and God can heal that pain.
-----

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Quiet Days

Skipper and Blue Toy on neighborhood watch

I'm working on some Easter altered tag art for a swap. I have half of them done (five) and have five more to go. I'll show pics tomorrow maybe.

Not much else going on around The Yellow House.

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 03/14/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Ah, the marvelous blessings of quiet days, pleasant creativity, and low windows for low dogs to gaze thru!

I've been in high gear for so many days I seem to be having touble slowing down. I am tired. Bother!

Hugs!

On 03/14/2013, Jeanne said ...

Hi Susan, I'm like Barbara Anne in high gear. I am having a wedding shower for my great niece on this Saturday. Cleaning, cooking, hanging pictures, you name it. Oh and setting tables and cleaning the darn silverware. It will all be worth it for my sweet niece.

Love your pup keeping watch with his play buddy. A very nice photo op.

I will start my tags on Monday and I won't stop until I'm done. I have all my stuff, so it is all about starting. HA! I am so glad you are joining in.I thought we only needed nine. I could be wrong. I am sure your tags will be perfectly wonderful. I look forward to receiving mine.

Enjoy the quiet moments.
Love, Jeanne

On 03/14/2013, Jan said ...

Hurray for a Skipper photo! He's probably daydreaming about finding a good spot outside to dig a nice, big hole!!

On 03/15/2013, Kai said ...

That's the cutest picture of Skipper YET! He and Blue Toy are GOOD companions! LOL!

-----

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

A Happy Birthday Day

I'm so glad I made it to guild meeting yesterday. I wouldn't have, had I not been the block-of-the-month chairman and had a job to do. I had intended to ask a friend to take over for me, but I was busy with other things and put it off until it was too late to ask. So I either had to go or shirk my duty. So I went. And I'm so glad I did.

Visits with friends and birthday greetings from many of them made it worth the hobble. And then there were the little sugar coated donuts that were served with our coffee. And a great guild program! And to top it all, I was one of the winners in the block-of-the-month drawing. For the first time in years, I won blocks, 12 of them.

Here they are!

Our program speaker this month was quilter, author, and speaker, Dianne S. Hire. Dianne brought quite a selection of her quilts, which are very innovative with lots of color, dimension, and movement. Dianne is definitely an out-of-the-box quilter. I photographed many of her creations, which you can see below.

This was my favorite one of Dianne quilts.

I had to leave the meeting a little early. My knee was screaming, and I was almost out of spoons. So I came home and rested for a while until Andy showed up bearing gifts and birthday cake. Shortly thereafter, my sister Ramey arrived with more gifts. I opened all my gifts and then we enjoyed cake and coffee, while Jesse regaled us with how he had seen his first ever midget the day before. That boy is one of a kind.

After everyone left, I heated up my new scented rice bag that Andy gave me and went to bed with the four-footers to read. I didn't read for long though. Not enough spoons left even for a page or two.

My scrumptious birthday cake

P.S. Don't forget that the Nancy Drew Blog Hop continues today and throughout the week. Scroll down to my last Thursday's post for a list of today's participants and those for the rest of the week. I'm going now to see what great Nancy projects everyone has come up with.

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 03/12/2013, Joanne said ...

Congrats on winning the blocks--they are gorgeous! One of my favorite patterns. And I love Dianne's quilts, I agree with your favorite. Sorry I didn't make it to your b'day bash. Seems I'm no good for anything these days except sleeping. Love you, and hope your ailments go away.

On 03/12/2013, Melanie Winters said ...

Happy Birthday and congratulations on your win!

On 03/12/2013, Ruth said ...

Happy birthday, Susan. Hope you're soon feeling better.
The blocks you won are lovely, another projest for you to work on.
Ruth

On 03/12/2013, Linda Volz said ...

Hi Susan -
Happy be-lated birthday all the way from Pennsylvania. Sounds like you had a real nice day and that cake looked delicious! All the quilts were really pretty but I'm with you and like the one you said was your favorite although my girlie-girls (9)& (13) would love the one with the colorful feathers. Always fun to see what other quilters are doing. I hope your knee is better today, it's awful when something you've always counted on suddenly doesn't want to work anymore isn't it? My right ankle has been giving me fits for about a week.
Wishing you blessings,
Linda

On 03/12/2013, Valerie said ...

Happy birthday! That cake looks wonderful! Congrats on your win too!!!! Hope you feel better soon!

On 03/12/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Cheers for winning the BOMs and aren't they a delightful lot?!

I'm so glad to got to guild meeting, too, as I always enjoy your little quilt show the next day. What glorious quilts Dianne Hire makes! Wow! They're wonderfully colorful and do dance. Applause!! I'll have to visit her website when my brain is working.

Today we moved DS2 home and it was an exhausting project as he's been sick and could not finish the packing. I worked for 3 hours and was in the car for 6+ hours. Talk about spoonless...

Tomorrow we unload the truck and one of our helpers backed out. Might Jesse come? Wish!

Hugs!

On 03/13/2013, Ellen in Oregon said ...

Happy belated Birthday wishes Susan. I was glad you were able to your quilt guild meeting. Thank you for all the photos of the bright & Springy quilts. Diannes' Nancy Drew was great. I have always wanted to do some printing on fabric & her's may be the one to push be to trying it out. How great to have a few actual book covers as part of her quilt. I hope we do get to see the finished version.
Congrads. on your winning the 12 blocks. They are all nice and could be used in lots of different projects. I am in a table topper/runner phase and am enjoying some smaller projects that are easy to finish on my own. People seem to enjoy getting them as gifts. Your disappearing 9 patch ND quilt came out really nice. I like how you arranged the red centers to criss-cross the whole quilt.
I hope you have a good stack of books to keep you occupied while in bed. I noticed you read the book by S. King & Joe Hill. I have read several of Joe Hill's books and I actually think he is the better writer of the two. I think the title was Heart in a Box was his first book and I thought it was a good creative scare. I appreciate your book reviews as we have similar tastes and will be going to the library to find several that look good.
It was nice that family came over to celebrate your day. It sounds like it wasa very mixed day for you & I am sure you were exhaust by its' end.
Take Care - Ellen

On 03/13/2013, Deb said ...

Belated Happy Birthday, Susan!! Sounds like it was special!

On 03/15/2013, Kai said ...

LOVE the quilts but am HATING MYSELF right now! I cannot BELIEVE I forgot your birthday. (Hiding face in shame!) The only excuse I can offer is the real one - it's been a nuthouse here with all the company & goings on. Please accept FIRST my sincere apology, THEN my belated Happy Birthday. I LOVE YOU to PIECES, Susan, and I WILL make it up to you, my precious friend! XXXOOO!

On 03/17/2013, Sally said ...

I love the blocks you won. What is that pattern?
-----

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Another Nancy Quilt

I just had to show everyone this beautiful quilt that our friend Barbara Ann made using the Nancy Drew fabric. Barbara doesn't have a blog herself, and I just feel that this beautiful quilt needs some exposure. Those patchwork blocks are beautiful, and the perfect fabric and colors to compliment the Nancy Drew book cover panels. Barbara plans to border her quilt, so perhaps she'll give us another peep once that is done.

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 03/09/2013, Mary said ...

I love that quilt! As a young girl I loved Nancy Drew and read all the Nancy Drew books.

On 03/09/2013, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Oh what fun - great job Barbara!

On 03/09/2013, Jan said ...

Wonderful quilt! Please show it again when the borders are added!

On 03/09/2013, Joanne said ...

Great quilt!

On 03/09/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Susan,

Thanks for showing my Nancy Drew quilt and thanks to all who made such kind comments about it, too. The top and bottom center blocks are names "Girl's Favorite" and the Nancy Drew books were certainly my favorites when I was a child.

The four side blocks were chosen because they're easier to piece than the Girl's Favorite blocks. I thought the first one was problematic and had lumpy intersections so made a second block thinking it would go more smoothly. Not so and what a bummer that was. I was happy to find the Square in a Star tutorial on-line and I love those 4 side blocks made with that pattern.

I'll be happy to show the completed quilt when I've had time to put the borders on. Just now DH and I are going thru a bazillion books my FIL kept and on the 12th will move DS2 back from his apartment 3 hours away. He'll move in with sweet AMIL with the hopes his good company will cheer her back to good health following her draining 6 months as a caregiver for FIL. As my Grandma used to say, "do pray!" Thank you!

Again, thank you, one and all!

Hugs all around!

On 03/09/2013, Lavender Dreams said ...

This really is a work of art! It's gorgeous!

On 03/09/2013, Kai said ...

Barb, that's amazing! It's like seeing Nancy come alive! I'm so glad Susan posted it so I could SEE what you make! Beautiful, beautiful!!!

On 03/09/2013, Deb said ...

Barbara, it's just wonderful! Love the way you put it all together! The quilt would be just perfect for a Nancy Drew fanatic!! thanks, Susan, for showing Barb's wonderful work.

On 03/10/2013, Frances said ...

What a cute quilt. Love all the covers together.

On 03/10/2013, Melinda said ...

What a great quilt. Thank you for sharing it.

On 03/11/2013, christian louboutin said ...

Fyrirgefðu ", sagði HR framkvæmdastjóri:" Ef þú ert ekki með tölvupóst, sem þýðir að þú ert ekki til. Og hver er ekki til, getur ekki hafa vinnu. "

On 03/11/2013, Linda said ...

I love all the Nancy Drew creations taking place here on this blog and have finally decided I need to order some fabric!

On 03/11/2013, Sandra Neel Hutchins said ...

Barbara and Susan: What lovely quilts! I so enjoy seeing your beautiful work. Sandra Neel Hutchins, (Sandy Gail)
-----

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

The Mystery of the Double Disappearing Nine Patch

My Nancy Drew Blog Hop Challenge Project

A nice nap-size quilt to cuddle under and read a favorite mystery.

I've mostly outgrown Nancy, but I have been known to take one down from my collection now and then and reread it.

This is just a few of the books in my Nancy collection. I find them at thrift stores sometimes and at flea markets. And friends has given me some.

Nancy Drew Mystery #1

Reading Nancy Drew mysteries as a young girl didn't make me want to be a detective; but it did make me want to be a writer.

A girl never gets too old for Nancy.

Since I got in on the Nancy Drew Blog Hop late, I knew I had to come up with a quick-and-easy project to finish on time. I also knew I wanted my project to be a quilt. So after much cogitating and pondering, I decided on a Disappearing Nine Patch block. I was already working on DNP blocks for another quilt, and I knew they were fast.

If you don't know what a Disappearing Nine Patch is, read on and I will explain.

So I ordered a Layer Cake (pack of 10" squares) of the Nancy Drew fabric and started making my nine patches. THEY WERE HUGE! Twenty-nine inches square, which even quartered, gave me some big blocks and little variety in what was going to be a small quilt.

My Nancy Drew Layer Cake (40 [10"] squares of fabric)

What shall I do? I asked myself. I know! I'll disappear them again, i.e., quarter my quartered blocks a second time to make for smaller units and more variety. And that's what I did, and came up with 16 units from each nine patch block instead of the four units that result from a regular disappearing nine patch block.

I made a total of four nine patch blocks from my 10" squares, quartered them all, then quartered them again, and sewed them back together to get the quilt above.

In case your interested, below is a short tutorial for making the Double Disappearing Nine Patch blocks that I used in my Nancy Drew Blog Hop Quilt.

In the process shots below, I used 5" squares to make my nine-patch blocks. I hadn't thought to take pictures while making my Nancy Drew blocks, so when I decided to do this how-to, I needed blocks, and I decided it would be much easier to use smaller squares. It was.

These instructions below tell you how to make the Double Disappearing Nine-Patch Block only, not the entire quilt. The instructions work with any size squares you want to begin with, and result on smaller or larger blocks, depending on the size of your original square.

Start by making a nine-patch block: nine squares of the same size sewn together as shown in the photo above.

Cut your nine-patch block into quarters by cutting through the center of the block horizontally and vertically. You now have four units.

Cut each of the four units produced above into quarters by cutting through the center of each unit horizontally and vertically. Repeat with all four units. You now have 16 units.

Now it's time to sew all your units back together to form a new Double Disappearing Nine-Patch Block. There are many ways to orient your units for different blocks. Below are a few, and I'm sure you can come up with more of your own.

This is the setting I used for my Nancy Drew blocks. But since I had much more variety in my fabrics, it has a different look.

In order to get the red squares to create an X across my quilt, I used a red square in the center of each of my nine-patch blocks. When laying out my units, I turned each quarter section so it would be a mirror image of the one above and beside it.

NOW LET'S DO SOME HOPPING

Thanks to Carol at Just Let Me Quilt for hosting this blog hop. Below are links for each blog hop participant for the entire eight days. I hope you take the opportunity to visit them and see what creative and charming projects they have come up with using the Nancy Drew Get a Clue fabric Line. Each blogger's project will be featured on her blog on the day under which her blog is listed, and possibly before.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Michelle’s Romantic Tangle

Life in the Scrapatch

Debby Kratovil Quilts

Selina Quilts

Meadowbrook

Hilltop House Creative Works

My Sister Made Me Do It

Whims and Fancies

Pieced Brain

Just Let Me Quilt


Thursday, March 7, 2013

Simple Sew

Sewing By Moonlight

Beaquilter

Pat Sloan’s Place

A Stitch In Time

Judith Handmade Treasures

Gingersnaps Fabrics and Quilts

Judy At That Other Blog

Fabric-ating

Melinda Quilts Etc


Friday, March 8, 2013

That’s Sew Julie

Scrapbook-ChickADoodle

Lily Patch Quilts

Cherry’s Prairie Primitives

The Thimble Room

The Treehouse

The German Mom

Stitch, Stitch, Stitch.

Quiltin’ Jenny

Blackberry Creek Home Arts


Monday, March 11, 2013

Dancing thru-threads

Traveling Quilter

Jane’s Quilting

More Stars in Comanche

Moose Stash Quilting

Quilt Doodle Designs

Cate’s Linens

Sew Incredibly Crazy

Grandmama’s Stories

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Marjorie’s Busy Corner

Kris Loves Fabric

The Slow Quilter

Accio Fabric!

Sew Many Yarns

Lixie Makes It

Betty at That Other Blog

Marcy M. at That Other Blog

Pigtales and Quilts

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Gracie Oliver Arts

Life In Every Breath

Made By Me In Red

Agnes At That Other Blog

Words and Stitches

Rose Creations

Retired to Quilt

Leslie Tucker Jenison

Feathered Nest Studio

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Rose Prairie Quilts and Farm

Quilt ‘n Queen

Our Busy Little Bunch

Just Quilt It

Hilachas

Loves to Quilt

Sew. Darn. Quilt.

From This To That

LynMarie At That Other Blog

Friday, March 15, 2013

Little Mushroom Cap

Why-Knot-Kwilt

Daisy Days

Julia P. at That Other Blog

The Day Before This Day

Sew Far

Rainbows. Bunnies. Cupcakes.

Les passions de Cliodana

Sew We Quilt

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 03/07/2013, Michelle said ...

That's really clever!

On 03/07/2013, Julie in WA said ...

Very very cool! I've not seen the double d9p, but it looks great! I like the red squares lining up to give the eye a place to focus.

On 03/07/2013, Barbara Anne said ...

Love your Nancy Drew quilt!!!! Good block choice, too. I was astonished at the variety of ways it could be put together. Thanks for all of the photos, link to the tutorial, and link to the many blogs that will feature ND quilts.

My ND quilt still has no borders but the center was put together yesterday. I thought reveal day was the 8th and I knew there was no way to get pieced borders made and on the quilt today. There is even a new hiccup to my sewing today. I have a fever and feel crummy. Bother!

I'll send you a photo of my as-it-is ND quilt.

Hugs!

On 03/07/2013, Jan said ...

Great tutorial for disappearing nine patches! I love your Nancy Drew quilt--read 'em all when I was a kid! I sure wish I still had my copies!

On 03/07/2013, Pat said ...

Very creative. I have made the DP9 Patch, but have never seen this Double DP9 variation before. Thanks for sharing ... :) Pat

On 03/07/2013, Thearica Burroughs said ...

I am one that has never made the D9P either... yours looks great!

On 03/07/2013, Judith Reynolds said ...

I have never sewen a D9P before, with your tutorial, I sure to follow. I love how you set all the faces in one direction. Beautiful quilt! Thanks for sharing...Judith, Texas

On 03/08/2013, Felicia Few said ...

WOW!! I have never done a Double Disappearing Nine-Patch Block before but have always wanted to try. That is great.

On 03/08/2013, Rosemary said ...

Miss Sophie-You are so clever, the disappearing nine-patch! I did read ND as a young girl which got me interested in reading which helped me learn to sew! I don't know what happened to my books as we used to trade them around. I adore your furry helpers-I have three felines, the two males are with me on the bed as I type. Our little black female is the pistol of the bunch-helps me by pulling out pins from my projects when I'm not looking so I have to be careful. From California, thanks for sharing

On 03/08/2013, Jenn B said ...

nifty quilt! Such a perfect one for this hop! Sounds like it could have been a Nancy Drew book title itself.

On 03/08/2013, Judy B said ...

What a beautiful Nancy Drew quilt! I am sure going to try the double D9P. Thank you for the great tutorial and for sharing.

On 03/08/2013, Theresa said ...

What a great design, your quilt is lovely. I especially like how you've got the X going through the middle. Thank you for the tutorial.

On 03/08/2013, Britt-Inger said ...

Oh. That is a clever way to have a mystery. Thanks for sharing. And I must try double disappering nine patch
Thanks for sharing

On 03/08/2013, Jenn said ...

I like the title of the blog post - very mysterious :) Very nice job!

Jenn:)

www.nancydrewsleuth.com

On 03/08/2013, charlotte said ...

Wonderful job. It even sounds like a Nancy Drew mystery!

On 03/08/2013, Sharon Griffith said ...

Thanks for the little tutorial on making the blocks and making the secondary design is very clever...Your quilt looks awesome...enjoy your hopping day.

On 03/08/2013, Chiska said ...

Lovely quilt. Thanks for the tutorial too. Can you tell who the tractor fabric is by? Or the name of it. It's really fun to..

On 03/08/2013, Judy Cooper said ...

Very interesting use of the fabrics.

On 03/08/2013, Patty D said ...

you choose the perfect block! love the quilt.

On 03/08/2013, Jeanie said ...

Great quilt! I love to play with DNP blocks...they are simple to make and complex in design. Thanks for sharing!

On 03/08/2013, Quiltin' Jenny said ...

What a cute quilt to snuggle under while reading a good mystery! Thanks so much for the tutorial on the DD9P.

On 03/08/2013, marjorie said ...

love your quilt....great pattern; looks fantastic.

On 03/08/2013, Marcia K said ...

A quilt to read under is a fantastic idea!

On 03/08/2013, Beulah said ...

A great choice to show off all the wonderful prints! :)

On 03/08/2013, shirley tener said ...

beautiful

On 03/08/2013, Agnes B. Bullock said ...

This is beautiful- have never even tried a DNP, but now I will! Thanks for the tutorial!

On 03/08/2013, Carol said ...

I love how sewing blocks together and cutting them up again can create such an amazing square...thanks for the tutorial! Your quilt is beautiful! Thanks for hopping with us. :O)

On 03/08/2013, Kathy Gentry said ...

I love this quilt! It is so colorful. Thanks for the tutorial--I'd love to give this a try!

On 03/08/2013, Sandy R said ...

Fantastic quilt! Thanks for the tutorial!

On 03/08/2013, Jane said ...

That's another beautiful link. Thanks for sharing. Jane

On 03/08/2013, Domestic Bliss said ...

Oh, that's an amazing technique to cut the sewn squares apart and then reconfigure them. Thanks for giving such clear instructions. You had a great idea to line up the reds... thanks for sharing!

On 03/08/2013, Linda Winters said ...

You will certainly enjoy reading under your beautiful quilt! Great job!

On 03/08/2013, apple blossom said ...

nice disappearing quilt...very fitting for mystery theme and I love making those blocks too.

On 03/08/2013, Mary said ...

The D9P is the perfect quilt for a mystery!!! I love how the red squares are perfectly placed.

On 03/08/2013, Sallie said ...

Great job! What a perfect pattern for this!

On 03/08/2013, Scrapbook-ChickADoodle said ...

Wow! That is cool! I love learning something new... I've made several D9P quilts, but double D9P? Wow! I need to try that. Thanks for sharing.

On 03/08/2013, Daryl said ...

Perfect quilt to make for this hop!

On 03/08/2013, Tammy said ...

Great quilt. Thanks for the tutorial on the blocks

On 03/08/2013, Corrie said ...

Great idea - thanks for showing all the different ways you could do it.

On 03/08/2013, Linda J said ...

Very well done and it fits the theme so well. Disappearing, mysteries.

I enjoyed the Nancy Drew books as a child but do not recall ever actually owning any. Cherry Ames series too.

On 03/08/2013, Vicki H said ...

What a fitting block for your quilt. Thanks for sharing the how-to.

On 03/08/2013, Beth Strand said ...

Great design...thank you for sharing your quilt!

On 03/08/2013, Patty H said ...

Thanks for showing how to do your quilt top. Great job.

On 03/08/2013, Jenelle Boxberger said ...

Fun quilt and that's for showing us how you made it. Love the bright fabric in the Nancy Drew fabric. Thanks for being in the hop.

On 03/08/2013, Amy said ...

Love the disappearing nine patch! It is beautiful and thanks for the little tutorial and layout variations! I will have to give it a try sometime.

On 03/08/2013, joan said ...

I love disappearing 9 patches. So many choices! Great project!

On 03/08/2013, Krislovesfabric said ...

Fun that you "disappeared it again"!!

On 03/08/2013, Alcea Rosea said ...

I have not seen the nine patch cut twice, a brilliant look for this quilt.

On 03/08/2013, mdm samm said ...

awesome awesome...can I say before I forget the secret of the old clock was my fav book of the series....you did a great job..glad you participated with us all

On 03/08/2013, Melinda said ...

What a great idea to do a double DNP. I love your quilt.

On 03/08/2013, kathy h said ...

Great pattern for the fabric. I am glad you showed how you cut the block as it is less confusing for me to see a nice picture.

On 03/08/2013, Catherine said ...

Your quilt is fabulous! Thank you for the tutorial. Your post is just wonderful and so glad you shared your Nancy Drew collection with us.

On 03/08/2013, jan said ...

DPN is great for Nancy drew Fabric! I had already decided to make my daughter a quilt but hadnt decided on which pattern. May have to use the DPN. Really cute! Thanks for sharing!!

On 03/08/2013, Theresa said ...

Fantastic quilt and tutorial! Thanks for sharing!

On 03/08/2013, rosa said ...

Fabulous quilt and tutorial.I`ve never tried D9patch.Thanks for sharing!!

On 03/08/2013, Jane said ...

You wrote a great tutorial on disappearing nine patch. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Your quilt is adorable and perfect for a quick nap after reading.

On 03/08/2013, Barbie K In NC said ...

Thanks for the Tute! and sharing your quilt! B-) ps I love your book reviews, too!

On 03/08/2013, ida said ...

I've always wanted to do a disappearing 9 patch and what a perfect fabric you chose for yours! Lovely!

On 03/08/2013, Susan said ...

Thanks for sharing how to do the DNP quilt you designed. What a creative idea. When I saw the "I" in the middle of the tutorial, I thought that is just what I need. I just finished quilts for my nephew's twins. I have to wash the cat fur out of them and finish the labels. They have an older sister who will be three this month. Her name is Ilona. That would be perfect for her. Even if I just make a doll size quilt for her. I crocheted a blanket for her when she was born. I was silly and asked what my nephew would like - I do not like to crochet and have only mastered a couple of patterns. Your quilt is terrific. Thank you for participating in the hop, giving us a gret tutorial, and being a great inspiration.

On 03/08/2013, Lyn M said ...

Thanks for the tutorial. Really looks fun. Thanks

On 03/08/2013, Jane said ...

I Love your quilt. The DP9P is so much fun. I love the way you used the blocks.

On 03/08/2013, Jane said ...

PS Love your book reviews! Thanks!!

On 03/08/2013, Cecilia said ...

Cute quilt. Thanks for sharing.

On 03/08/2013, LJ said ...

Your double disappearing nine patch turned out so well; thanks for the tut. Isn't it crazy that ChickADoodle would also have a DNP quilt on the same day as you had one? Super ideas come to different people at the same time!!

On 03/08/2013, Lori Morton said ...

Awesome job on your Quilt!!! Thank you for the Tutorial too...I am wanting to make each of my Daughters one!! :)

On 03/08/2013, lisa mci said ...

What a great variation on the DNP. Thanks for sharing your creativity.

On 03/09/2013, Marlene said ...

What a wonderful choice for this hop! blessings, marlene

On 03/09/2013, Kim S. said ...

Love your Disappearing Nine Patch. It looks fantastic.

On 03/09/2013, Kai said ...

Oh, my gracious! All that quilt making talk makes me KNOW I'm a moron! But I DO understand ONE thing: You make AWESOME quilts & I love your Nancy Drew one!

On 03/10/2013, Frances said ...

Your DNP quilt is just sew pretty. Love the bright colors . They create such a cheerful quilt.

On 03/10/2013, Karrie Smith said ...

I LOVE your quilt! It's so beautiful! I never made a disappearing 9 patch yet, and you explained it perfectly. Plus all the different things you can do with it. I like your friend's quilt also that doesn't have a blog (you can pass that along!)

Just out of curiosity, I see on your facebook badge that your (maiden?) name is Ramey. I live in MI and know some Rameys, and was curious if you may be related. My daughter's father is a Ramey.

Thank you for sharing with us!

On 03/11/2013, jimmy choo outlet said ...

"Þú ert starfandi" sagði hann, "Gefðu mér netfangið þitt og ég skal senda þér forrit til að fylla í, og degi þegar þú getur byrjað."

On 03/11/2013, Laura said ...

I have never made a disappearing 9-patch before, but after seeing yours, I think I want to give it a try.

On 03/11/2013, Rebeckah said ...

Lovely quilts!

On 03/15/2013, Miss Jean said ...

I've done disappearing nine patch quilts before using charm packs and I love this idea with the layer cake. Great idea!

-----

About Me

Hi. My name is Susan, and I'm a lover of all things fabric related. When I first started sewing, in my teens, I made clothes. I learned to sew on a beautiful Singer treadle machine. I remember the first garment I made was a dress for the 4-H dress review when I was in Junior High.

In my 20s and 30s, I made almost all my and my children's clothes. I added quiltmaking in my late 20s, and gradually drifted away from garment making. I still make the occasional wearable, but most of my sewing time is spent on quilts.

I also enjoy reading and occasionally pick up the crochet hook or knitting needles. I invite you to visit here often. I'd like to share my interests with you.