Quilts A Bit

Not Anything To Do With Quilting

2011-07-12T19:09:00.000-06:00

I have always wanted a vegetable garden. For real. But it just isn't possible. Right now.

Instead, we joined a CWS farm this summer. Our first delivery is tomorrow. We won't be getting a lot of anything this time, but I am expecting great things later this summer.

I love the idea of eating well. We do our best here but there are days when Subway meets our immediate dietary needs.

With the whole vegetables from the farm, lots of choice at the local Farmer's Market, and the tweets of Mrs McPorkchop (who makes things like blackberry lime freezer jam and vanilla peach butter ), I have been inspired to try my hand at canning, jam making and the like.

Are you laughing yet?

I mean I have bought books and everything. Books like "Canning for a New Generation".

For sure you are laughing now. My husband is.

I'll let you know how it goes.

L xo

PS - that Everyday Food magazine pictured above is amazing. You should pick it up.

Music Monday - Babylon

2011-07-11T16:38:00.000-06:00

Better late than never.

L xo

Instead of Sewing

2011-07-08T08:17:00.000-06:00

I have been

making God's eyes and

making paper butterflies and ...

and weaving with paper and

and making tie dyed shirts. Among a million other fun summer activities.

So there hasn't been much sewing. Only 2 Farmer's Wife blocks. That's it.

But we have had so much fun, that sewing has kinda been the last thing on my list.

L xo

Music Mondays - I and Love and You

2011-07-04T09:31:00.000-06:00

One of my favourites.

L xo

PS - I have Farmer's Wife blocks to show you.

Ironing It Out

2011-06-28T12:36:00.000-06:00

So I spent the weekend ironing and cutting rather than sewing. You see, I couldn't decide what to make my Farmer's Wife quilt (finally decided on Farmdale - thanks to my friend Greta who helped me choose).

Rather than just doing nothing, I ironed and cut for 2 quilts - a solid magic 9 patch and my Lou Lou Thi quilt.

Now just have to sew those up!

And work on my Farmer's Wife quilt ...

L xo

Music Mondays - Uncharted

2011-06-27T03:28:00.003-06:00

Get out of your chair and dance. Not all crazy and stuff. But dance. It will do you good. Promise.

L xo

Where Was I?

2011-06-24T18:24:00.002-06:00

Well, I couldn't tell you before I left. Because even though there are only 24 of you out there reading this thing, I didn't want to announce that we would all be gone for 5 days and that would mean anyone could break into my house no problem during that time.

Not that I think the 24 readers I have would ever do that.

But the whole internet thing, you know?

Like do you ever think it is not so smart when people announce on Facebook that they are going away for 2 weeks and you won't be able to reach them ... Like that isn't a golden opportunity to break into someone's house.

Maybe it's just me, but I think you tell people when you get back.

But that's just me. Maybe I am a little "glass 1/2 empty" on the whole thing.

Anyhow ...

We were in NYC for 5 fun filled days. It was such a good time. I am so so tired.

Needless to say, I have done absolutely nothing since we got back last night except work (there is no rest for the wicked) and try desperately to get through the 1000+ post on Google Reader.

You have all been very busy. I am impressed.

L xo

PS - My dog went on a hunger strike while we were gone. No lie. He is a moody little fella, I tell you. (No idea who he gets that from).

PPS - Enough is enough, there will be sewing here shortly. Promise.

Music Mondays - These Are The Days

2011-06-20T06:00:00.005-06:00

For my sweet E who had such an amazing week. I can't tell you how much I love that little man.

L xo

I Am Making This Next

2011-06-17T00:00:00.001-06:00

Loulouthi Tiles Quilt

{photo courtesy of Stitched in Color}

I know what you are thinking. Add this to the Along list and the list looks pretty much impossible. But I just love this quilt. I think Rachel has done an amazing job of putting this quilt together. And there will be hand quilting (with AMH's new line of perle cotton), which I have never done before.

I've bought the fabric in a little package (how easy was that) and it is just waiting for me to cut into.

And I have to say, after not crushing so much on Innocent Crush (but it is growing on me), I am loving this line. So much so that I asked my friend Deirdre to order an entire bolt of this

for me to make curtains out of. Which will be awesomeness if my house ever gets renovated. Let's talk about that some other time.

I don't think this quilt will take a long time to do since the tiles are so big. To showcase the fabric and all. I can't start it for a week or so.

I'll let you know how it goes.

L xo

Get Along

2011-06-16T10:08:00.056-06:00

How about a list of the "alongs" that I have my eye on?

Supernova Quilt Along

{photo courtesy of Lee at Freshly Pieced}

I started this one right when it started but I didn't get passed sewing part of 1 block. Not because I didn't like the block or I wanted to give up, but because I had the two school quilts to do. Those 2 quilts kinda threw a wrench into everything. I'll get back to this eventually.

Kaleidoscope Quilt Along

I think that this is going to be a great quilt along. I have never done a quilt like this so am looking forward to the challenge. And there will be templates! So no need to buy a new ruler. No idea what fabric to use but I am thinking solids (which I have never used before).

A Zig A Zag Quilt Along

This might be a good one to use solids with, don't you think? I have been wanting to make a zig zag quilt for a long time - probably since I started quilting. And wouldn't this quilt match so nicely with my rainbow pillows that I can't seem to stop making. My only worry is half square triangles - I think this one has them. Not so good at those.

Warm Cool Quilt Along

I would love to do a value quilt. And Jenn at In Color Order is amazing at explaining all about how you go about choosing fabrics and colors. Again, there is the whole half square triangle thing but it may just be worth it for a beautiful quilt like the ones Jenn has done.

Dresden Quilt Along

{photo courtesy of Lily's Quilts}

This quilt along finished up a little while ago but it is a type of quilt I would love to try. And the instructions on the Lily's Quilts blog are really good. And I have a whole fat quarter set of the Sherbet Pips ...

+ and - Quilt Along

{photo courtesy of Bad Skirt Amy}

This is a flickr quilt along based on Bad Skirt Amy's tutorial based on a Setsuko Inagawa quilt.

I am in love with the this quilt

{photo courtesy of Where the Orchids Grow}

so I may have to give it a go.

Synchronized Squares Quilt Along

{Photo courtesy of PS I Quilt}

Let's talk about Rachel and her quilt alongs. I missed the Postage Stamp along but used her tutorials and made an awesome quilt for E's principal. Rachel is super good with instructions. I am all over this because I know I can get it done and I have some Hullabaloo from Urban Chiks that needs to become this quilt.

Farmer's Wife Along

{photo courtesy of Fussy Cut blog}

Well if this hasn't caught on like wild fire, I don't know what has. I have had this book for a long time. Amanda and Angela started this up and it seems like everyone and their dog is doing it. I am all in. I saw pictures of Camilla Roskelley's blocks in her Bliss and Ruby lines ... gorgeous. No idea what fabric to use. Scrappy like the ones on the Twin Fibers Blog? Dark with Liberty prints like the ones on I'm a Ginger Monkey? Just using a few colours like A Life in Lists? (the Life in Lists one is my favourite after Camilla's ... but Ruby doesn't come out until the fall and you can't find any Bliss to save your life ...)

I am going to be behind before I even start because of all the goings on over the next week. But I am going to catch up and stay caught up (which is in no small part thanks to my friend Deirdre who got me started with the templates ... I am following her lead and doing this by paper piecing) by the end of June.

L xo

PS - "Get along" is a phrase used once and awhile in this house. Some weeks are better than others. Having children 15 months apart means that the boys do not know of an existence without each other. This is more of a blessing than a curse but still has its challenges. I wonder though, why we think siblings should always "get along". I don't get along with everyone all the time (understatement). I mean, I am not advocating all out brawling or anything, but the expectation that the boys will always get along is crazy. I mean they drive me crazy and I love them to bits so how can I expect them to always be friends? Maybe they have each other to learn how to get along with others - like having an almost twin sibling is practice or something for the big wide world out there. Just thinking out loud here.

I'll get back to you if I come up with anything good.

PPS - Are you still here? This is the longest post EVER.

I Made This Too

2011-06-15T09:49:00.008-06:00

I made this for the Goody Bag Swap on Flickr.

I know I said "no swaps" etc. awhile back but my friend Greta told me about it so I thought I would give it a go.

I am back to "no swapping" now. Not because I didn't like making the bag. I did. I sent lots of goodies too.

I am just not good with deadlines. I want to be good with deadlines but I am not. At least when it comes to this stuff.

I am good with deadlines when it comes to getting stuff done for the children (and let me tell you, June has been full of stuff to do for the children). I am good with deadlines with work (although I missed a few last week because I was sick-ish).

But when it comes to sewing, deadlines are not my thing. Because of all of the other deadlines I have.

I like to sew because I like to sew. Putting pressure on to sew because I have left it to last minute because I have done 12 files, baked 7 dozen cookies, taken the dog to the vet, helped with school projects ... not so good. And not so fun.

And I know that there are lots of people who sew like crazy, meet swap deadlines and do more than I do in a day. I tip my hat. Seriously.

L xo

PS - I am pretty impressed with myself with the quilt deadlines I had this month though. The school quilts were done in advance of the dates and there was no rushing. Even the pillow was a rainy Saturday afternoon thing. All done with more than enough time. I think that was a first for me.

PPS - I may not be good with the swaps and all, but the "alongs', let me tell you ... there are sooo many I want to join. I have a list for you that I'll post tomorrow.

Look What I Made

2011-06-14T06:38:00.009-06:00

Yep. I made a pillow. And I love it! I just wish it was for me. It isn't. I couldn't end the school year without making something for S's Grade 2 teacher. She is beyond wonderful. And it didn't seem fair to make something for the principal and E's Grade 3 teacher and leave her out. Just couldn't do it.

I am not sure if she will like it but if she doesn't, she can always just leave it in the classroom. Unless the classroom gets lice THREE TIMES IN ONE YEAR like they did this year. Then she will have to burn it. Let's hope that doesn't happen - and not just for the pillow's sake.

I took my inspiration from a pillow I saw on flickr. Super easy to do. It is a 19.5" pillow with a 20" pillow form because I like overstuffed pillows, yes I do.

If I didn't have piles of work to do today, I would be making another one of these pillows. I plan on making a lot of them. Have a birthday? You are getting a pillow. A baby? A pillow. Anniversary? A pillow ... you get where I am going?

One of the things I noticed when I was putting together the fabric for the pillow (I cut a lot of extra - see above for pillow making factory reason) is that I have almost no red or purple in my stash. And it isn't easy finding red or purple that I like either.

Strange, but true.

L xo

PS - I also made a skirt this weekend. You will never ever see it. Ever. Not good. Not good at all. I don't think I am cut out for clothes making. Unless it is pj's. I am pretty good at those.

Music Monday - Bananarama

2011-06-13T06:01:00.002-06:00

Cruel summer? Really ? I would take that over no summer. While it isn't raining right this minute, the weatherman says there is more in store.

Rain, rain go away. If you don't, I may have to move. Seriously.

L xo

PS - I am old enough to have loved this when it came out. Hard to believe, I am sure.

Another Reason for the Lack of Posting

2011-06-09T06:00:00.009-06:00

Another quilt done. Except that this one was done a long, long time ago. I did have plans for another quilt to make and give but that one did not come together very well. At all. We probably shouldn't talk about that one. Maybe some of those blocks will become pillows one day. Or not.

And this one just needed a binding.

And we needed another quilt because we just had to give one to E's grade 3 teacher. Because she is getting married in a month and is just the most amazing teacher ever.

So we decided this was the way to go. And I am so glad. I love this quilt.

Binding was pretty easy. I think I am getting better at it.

We had a surprise shower for E's sweet teacher (which is another reason for the lack of blogging - so many parties to plan, end of year and all).

I think the quilt was well received, don't you?

L xo

One of the Reasons for my Lack of Posting

2011-06-08T08:35:00.002-06:00

I have been busy. Quilting. Among a million other things.

You see, I had this plan to make my sweet E's Grade 3 teacher a quilt for an end of year/getting married present. I had the planning done, the timing all in order. Things were going to be great.

And then we got an announcement. The boys most amazing principal was retiring at the end of the year. Now let me tell you, Mrs. Kenny is amazing. She is a kind and compassionate leader who isn't afraid to set the children on the right path, even if that means a little tough love every once and awhile. I can't tell you how much I appreciate her and how much my boys have benefitted from having her in their lives.

So what could I do but make her a quilt too. Two quilts, one month, no problem. But just to make things interesting, I decided that the quilt had to be from everyone. And that meant getting all 130 students and staff to sign the back of the quilt. On the sly, mind you. And then have enough time to get it to the quilter's.

And we did it. And this Monday, we had a surprise assembly for Mrs. Kenny and my sweet boys presented her with the quilt on behalf of everyone. I choked up. It was so touching to see E, who wouldn't even approach a stage when he was little, speak in front of everyone to let Mrs. Kenny know about the quilt and how we made it because we love her so.

The quilt is the Postage Stamp Quilt from Rachel at PS I Quilt. I mean I couldn't have whipped this one up without her amazing instructions for the quilt-along. I pretty much love the pattern and have plans to make more of these quilts (let's be honest, they look like they are a lot more work than they are - not that they aren't work, but you know what I mean).

The back was some older Cosmo Cricket that looks like an exercise book. Not sure what line it is from but it was perfect and fit our theme perfectly. The signatures (which you can barely see) are so sweet, it is really just something else.

So, there you go. One of the gazillion reasons why it was so hard to get to the computer for the last 5 weeks.

L xo

Start Spreading the News

2011-06-07T06:21:00.004-06:00

So I have had a secret for a little while. And given that I have been erratic with my blogging (to say the least), it wasn't so hard to keep a secret. But, as of June 1st, we were given the go ahead to let the world know about this AMAZING book and our blocks in it. So, you see that book cover there ... I am in that book. For reals.

I am so over the moon excited about this, I cannot tell you.

You see, most days I feel like I am the beginner's beginner with this sewing and quilting stuff. I don't often get discouraged and pretty much always love learning new things but everything is new to me. And I have to learn things over and over again. I am not a "get it the first time round" kinda gal. I have to say I am beyond lucky that I have friends who are willing to teach me over and over again (Hello, Deirdre!).

But even though I am the beginner's beginner, I am in BOOK! That is such awesomeness. And my block is a favourite of mine. I mean I love it. Not as much as my kids, husband or dog, but pretty close.

And even if I wasn't in Modern Quilt Blocks: 99 Quilt Blocks From Your Favourite Designers, I would buy this book. 99 different blocks! All amazing! Stash Publishing will have it available in October but I think I am getting an advance copy in August. If I do, I will share. Promise.

I am not sure if I can share my block but I'll give you a hint ... if you like working with all the different fabrics out there, you will like making this block. Yes, you will.

L xo

PS - Others in the book, to name a few, are ... Fresh Lemons Faith, Thornberry, The Long Thread and Patchwork Duck Designs

Music Monday - One Republic

2011-06-06T11:11:00.000-06:00

And we are back ...

L xo

PS - And, without a doubt, this is a good life.

Music Monday - Betty

2011-04-25T08:46:00.005-06:00

Well, that was some weekend. I mean, it was a sewing marathon. Ask my friend Greta. We were emailing back and forth all weekend. It is nice to have someone to chat with while quilting. Greta started and finished a whole quilt over the weekend. Pretty awesome.

I am hoping to have a little post about all I did by tomorrow.

L xo

So Much

2011-04-21T17:37:00.000-06:00

It has been quite the week here. I mean everything from taxes, to a death in the family, to Passover, field trips ... the list was endless.

I am exhausted.

This may sound ridiculous, but one of the things that has kept me going is sewing. Because we added 2 quilts to the list of things that must get done.

And these quilts must get done.

One is for the boys' principal who is leaving the school at the end of the school year (June 16th).

One is for sweet E's grade 3 teacher. E's teacher is super amazing and is getting married this summer. Also must be done for

The principal quilt (for lack of a better name) is the postage stamp quilt that was on PS I Quilt recently. I am already sewing up the blocks (there are 48) and the backing is done (I am having all the staff and students sign the back so am covertly getting that done too!). I am using an American Jane Punctuation jelly roll from my stash for the quilt.

The teacher quilt (I am so original) is a pinwheel type thing called Summer Dreamin from Miss Print and Moda Bake Shop. I am not sure what happened but I have a lot of Dream On fabric. I mean a lot. So I am using some of it up on this. Using up a layer cake or two on this one.

I really am doing my best to use up my stash. I cleaned up my sewing room last week (it took forever) and the amount of fabric I have was overwhelming. Not that I don't love it, just that it has to be used.

And I have 2 quilts that need to make their way over to the quilters. If I can get these other 2 done asap, it will be a record month.

But there is still all that binding ...

L xo

Music Monday

2011-04-18T05:26:00.002-06:00

I know, I know, this has nothing to do with music but c'mon, seriously, if this video doesn't make your Monday, well, I just don't know ...

I just adore this. Hope you do too.

L xo

PS - Greta, I am going to get you more than an autograph. Stay tuned.

PPS - What is all this craziness over Denyse Schmidt's DS Quilts line at Joann's. We don't have Joann's in Canada. Maybe that's a good thing?

Oh Yes I Am

2011-04-13T14:17:00.000-06:00

going to make curtains for my dining room out of the fabric with the huge print in the middle of the picture.

I wasn't sold on AMH's last collection but I have seen some very nice quilts made with Innocent Crush lately and I am using a lot of IC in my Supernova quilt so I'd say that I am warming to it.

This new collection looks like it takes a little from the IC line but that print in the middle is amazing. And has exactly what I want for my dining room.

Because I have nothing to do and more than enough time to get everything done, we have decided to renovate the house. Just paint and flooring. Just.

Knowing that I will have bright curtains eventually may help me through the renovation craziness (it hasn't even started and already it is nutso).

Did I tell you that I get to meet AMH when I am at the Heather Ross workshop in New York in October? And Denyse Schmidt. You read that right.

The reno will be over by then, I will have hopefully survived my first summer as a WAHM and the kids will be back at school.

I am thinking that I will more than deserve the time away, if I do say so myself.

L xo

What 9 Looks Like

2011-04-12T21:48:00.000-06:00

Our last year of single digits for our sweet E. A day filled with homemade cakes for home and school. And exactly what was wanted for a birthday presents. And a neighbourhood/family cake party with a school party to follow later in the month. Oh to be 9 again.

My baby is 9. Incredible. I am so honour to be this wonderful boy's mom. I can't begin to tell you how much I learn every single day just by being around this wunderkid.

I am one lucky girl. Best day ever.

Happy Birthday, my darling boy.

L xo

PS - After the craziness settles (let's say Thursday), I have so much to tell you. About quilting.

Music Mondays - A Somewhat Oldie but Goodie

2011-04-11T05:25:00.000-06:00

I love this song. Yes, I do. I also love the fact that my boys are back at school after 2 weeks of Spring Break.

Enjoy.

L xo

Chester

2011-04-06T08:27:00.008-06:00

You haven't seen Chester in awhile and since I am visiting my mum with the boys and only brought miles of binding to sew, I have no really quilty pics to show you.

Instead, you get Chester.

Chester has been with us for almost a year. He pretty much rocks our world. How could he not? Take a look at that dog. Awesomeness.

My friend Ruth started a flickr group about Pets and Quilts. As soon as I actually get a quilt finished, Chester will model it for you so I can add a picture to the group.

L xo

PS - Staying with my parents affords me computer time. A good and bad thing. A good thing because I get to get caught up on all things quilting related. A bad thing because my "want to do that too" list grows ever larger.

PPS - As of today, the "want to do that too" list includes:

The Urban Lattice Quilt Along. Long since finished but after seeing Lee's quilt, it is a must do too. As an aside, in re-organizing my sewing room, I realized that I have a bazillion yards of Far Far Away II so I am just going to copy Lee and make the same quilt. Why mess with a good thing, especially when you have a copious amount of the same fabric.
Have a quilt quilted like One Shabby Chick's. Have quilted not quilt it myself. Let's be reasonable here.
Make a quilt like Jolene did - I pretty much love everything she does so I could put all of her quilts on this list but let's just add 1 for now.

Music Monday - Mindy Gledhill

2011-04-04T00:00:00.003-06:00

I am not going to lie. Sunday morning was not fun. I had this whole work issue completely blow up. I am exhausted. I was going to put some dreary music here for Music Monday in honour of my terribly foul mood but what good would that do?

Instead, let's start Monday off on the right foot. Only a week of Spring Break left. All is good. No one is dying. Work is just work. All will be well. Just breathe.

(Can you tell I am talking to myself as I write this - blogging as therapy, who knew?)

Let's talk soon.

L xo

PS - Let's not talk about how the boys and their friends got to one of the sewing machines and now it only sews backwards.

PPS - My dad rocks. He could talk me through anything. I have the most amazing family ever.

PPPS - Going to sew my first Supernova block together. On the sewing machine that sews forward. Wish me luck.

PPPPS - And how about all that nonsense going around on the quilting blogs about what quilting is. Half square triangles, modern quilts not hard enough, need more tradition ... while I probably could add a ton of my opinion to the whole debate, I think we should all just sew. Sew what we want and for whatever reasons we want, and not worry about the rest of it. Just my two cents.

All Cut Up

2011-04-01T23:01:00.001-06:00

This Supernova Quilt Along has a lot of cutting going on. And because I am a little late to the party, I seem to be doing nothing but cutting fabric in hopes of catching up.

I have started cutting this stack up into the pieces I need to sew. Instructions for sewing the blocks are already up so I have to get at it, don't you think?

I think all the cutting is going to be worth it though. From what I have seen already, this Supernova quilt pattern rocks.

L xo

PS - Through all this cutting, it has come to light that my cutting skills are sorely lacking. I mean crooked. Not sure what I am doing wrong but I can tell you what isn't right.

PPS - I don't know how many fabrics I have going on with this project but I can tell you that I am not looking forward to refolding and putting away all the fabric I pulled to put this together. How do people keep their sewing rooms so clean and organized? It seems that the minute I get everything back where it belongs, I am back at it making a big mess. I think that is the only not fun thing about quilting. (Cleaning is the not fun about everything, pretty much).

Choices

2011-03-30T17:53:00.020-06:00

Pulling these fabrics was a lot of work. They are for the Supernova Quilt Along. I am a little behind but seeing as I just joined this week, I am cutting my self some slack. And doing a tremendous amount of cutting. All this fabric.

I have been thinking about choices lately. Pulling a gazillion fabrics and trying to make them fit together gives one a little time to ponder. But just a little time. Because I don't have much time these days. You see, it is Spring Break at our house. That means children 24/7. Which is awesome ...

But also a lot of work.

We have played marble games, painted huge canvases, baked birthday cakes for neighbours and brownies for ourselves. We have played in the sunshine, played Angry Birds on my new Iphone, read chapters of Harry Potter and lost mail keys on bike rides (we found them). All in the last 3 days.

Leaving my job last summer and working from home has been amazing. It took a lot of adjusting but I would not trade it for anything. I think it was easier going to work 4 days a week than my present gig of working at home, full time caregiver, all the time grocery shopper, supreme dog walker and all round fun time gal. Choices, right?

You'll have to give me your opinion on my fabric choices. There are 9 supernovas in the quilt and I have chosen 7 fabrics for each supernova. I have tried to keep my colour choices to just a few, tried to use some of the same fabrics throughout, one print in different colours throughout (Henna something or another) ...

I am not sure that it all works but it is my plan for now. I'll let you know how it goes.

L xo

So Much to Tell You

2011-03-29T06:50:00.001-06:00

So here's the problem. I have too much to tell you. Not all of it quilting. But lots to tell. And I try to keep my posts to one or two things. I can get overwhelming. Shocking, but true.

Today's two things aren't really mine at all. But they must be shared. First up, S's "in progress" quilt block. We are just putting this thing together as we go. I must say, I am loving it. We have plans to make a few big, big blocks and sew them together and call it a quilt. I bet this becomes my favourite of all time.

I also love the fabric scrap "wish" bracelet thingy. This little scrap was just begging to be wrapped around a wrist. We put it on, S made a wish and we are sure it will come true when the fabric finally falls off. I am betting it will be late July before that little scrap gets tired of hanging around S's wrist.

Second up, E's art piece. It is Spring Break here and we have 2 weeks of togetherness. We made a wish list last week and at the top of my list was to do a big canvas painting. I am not the world's best artist, by any means, but I thought painting something big would be fun. E and S picked up canvases too and E got right at it when we got home. From what he tells me, there are many layers to go and this is only the beginning of the painting. I love it so much now and am sure I will love it even more when it is done.

It is so hard to keep it to two things today.

L xo

PS - I got an Iphone. I used to have a Blackberry. Big learning curve. Seeing as I taught myself to sew 2 short years ago, I am thinking I'll get this Iphone thing done too.

PPS - I am thinking of doing the Supernova quilt-along. Awesomeness.

Music Monday - Telephone

2011-03-28T07:38:00.000-06:00

I lost my Blackberry. In the snow. While skiing. Saturday. I hadn't backed it up maybe ever. It had pictures of the boys that I loved and now they are gone. And some of Chester. There has been some (okay, maybe a lot) of crying. Not for the phone but for the photos. Phone, smone. Losing the photos is kinda breaking my heart right now.

Seeing as it is Music Monday, I had no choice but to put Telephone by Lady Gaga on. But I couldn't actually put Lady Gaga's video on my blog. Too racy! So we get Glee.

L xo

PS - So much quilt binding on Sunday (official day of mourning for lost blackberry). Will have lots to show soon. Or tomorrow.

PPS - Is it okay to tell you all that I just loved my blog comments last week. Thanks so so much.

Let's See What I Have Been Up To ..

2011-03-25T06:02:00.001-06:00

There has been a little sewing over the last couple of weeks. I am mainly sewing up the Bee blocks that were completed for me for a few of my bees. I was a couple of blocks short on most of my Bee blocks, but, given that I, too, was a non-completer, I have just made due with what I have and am just grateful for all the hard work and effort that my fellow bee-rs put into my blocks (wow, if that isn't a run on sentence, what is?).

The photo above is actually the boarder around one of my Bee quilts. The quilt itself was a little small so needed a little something. A piano key large boarder seems to have done the trick. It was also suppose to have a smaller inner boarder. Suppose to. Forgot about that. No biggie.

Here's the thing though. I seem to forget a lot lately. Not big things mostly. Little things. There is a reason for it and I am in the process of fixing it but, in the meantime, I just try to not let it get to me. Easier said than done for the Type A personality I have.

Anyhow, along with this quilt, I have my Modern Tradition quilt to bind. It is gorgeous. Can't wait to show you that.

And I have 2 itty bits of a boarder to finish on this Japenese-y quilt. Just need to get some help figuring out how to make a few things work.

I have pieces cut but not sewn on an Oh Fransson quilt too.

But before I do that, I am going to pull out some more Bee blocks and get it done!

L xo

Let's Make a List ...

2011-03-23T07:01:00.013-06:00

Of all the "new to me" quilty things out there in the blogosphere that I am in love with ...

This quilt pattern (wish it was available as a download).
This chevron pillow. I will make these FOR SURE. And while we are on the topic of Oh Fransson, let's just talk about Elizabeth's book - The Practical Guide to Patchwork. It kept me going through the sewing drought. I didn't have time to sew so I would read about quilting. At stop lights. In bed. While making dinner. Wherever I could find an extra 30 seconds.
Rounded corners! Binding is my arch nemesis. Well, binding and a certain mother at my children's school but you don't want to get me started on that. I am completely in love with rounded corners though. I am going to give this a try. I may also give this binding tutorial a try.
My friend Greta's Postage Stamp quilt. I mean, c'mon, it is amazing! Quite jealous of that quilt. [Edit - Greta's quilt is back from the quilters. Even more gorgeous than before. Jealous.]
This Hexagon Park quilt pattern. I've seen it done up in AMH's Innocent Crush (which, if I am being completely honest, I do not crush on all that much - please don't hate me AMH, especially since we will be together in NYC in October). I have a lot of that Innocent Crush fabric in my stash so I think this is an option to put it to good use.
A Single Girl Quilt-along. Awesomeness. Nothing I am going to do, like, tomorrow but so amazed by what is shaking down there.
What I might do though, is a Single Girl pillow like the one on Fussy Cuts. C'mon, seriously, how cute is the pom pom trim. Fussy Cuts is a new to me blog that I am loving, loving, loving.
Red Pepper Quilts (can't pick one quilt). Really? I am not sure how all those quilts get done. I have quilt finishing envy pouring out of me. This is one of the reasons why. You should see the back too. Fabulous.

[photo courtesy of red pepper quilts awesomeness]

The list goes on and on.

L xo

PS - Another amazing thing. How the arts and crafts community has bonded over disaster relief for Japan. People have come up with so so so many amazing ways to raise money for those in need. It is beyond amazing.

Let's Get Caught Up

2011-03-22T05:11:00.001-06:00

First, I am an epic fail in the virtual bee department. Blogging isn't the only thing that didn't happen over the last 6, 7, 8 months (how long have I been gone). I didn't sew. I mean nothing. I absolutely hated going downstairs because downstairs = all the sewing I wasn't getting done. And all the sewing I wasn't getting done = all the people I was disappointing. Not so fun. I didn't even read a quilting blog the whole time. It made me feel so so bad that I couldn't do what I committed to. Same goes for Flickr. Haven't been on in ages. Probably have missed too much to mention.
I didn't buy much fabric at all while on hiatus. It doesn't seem like I missed much. Correct me if I am wrong. While there doesn't seem to be much doing with fabric, it does seem like the quilting blogger universe has been very busy. So many amazing quilts! I want to make pretty much every quilt I see. I am not going to make every quilt I see ... how do you think I got into this mess?
I didn't go to the Heather Ross Sewing Workshop in Palm Springs in January, as I had planned. I am going to the Workshop in New York in October though. The Workshop is the same time as Canadian Thanksgiving, Yom Kippur and the Sewing Summit in Salt Lake City. My planning skills aren't what they used to me. Obviously nor are my calendar reading skills. Still going to New York.
When I had to cancel the Palm Springs Workshop, I talked to the Heather Ross on the phone. It was my first brush with sewing/quilting stardom. She is very nice.
Since starting to sew again (and by again, I mean in the last 2 weeks), I have gotten a little bit finished. I haven't trusted myself to sew anything but a straight line. While sewing again is kinda like riding a bike, I have been making a lot of mistakes. Thank goodness I have a seam ripper. The seam ripper and I are new best friends.
I can't seem to find more than 5 things. Oh, I am charging my camera RIGHT NOW so hopefully this will be the only picture free post you have to read through.
I turned 40 about a month ago. It has been nothing but great so far.
I made it to 8. I'll take 8.

L xo

Let's Stay Together

2011-03-21T00:00:00.004-06:00

Well. It has been quite a while, hasn't it? I have so much to tell you. I have so much to show you.

So.

Let's stay together.

L xo

Change of Plans

2010-09-22T03:54:00.000-06:00

[image courtesy of Sue Spargo]

I am suppose to be at a day long Sue Spargo course in 6 hours. Yep, it starts at 9:30 and it is 3:16 exactly right now. This is some early morning blogging, isn't it?

We have had coughs and colds and sore throats and the list goes on and on as does our collective illnesses. It started with E on Friday (with a late night trip to the Children's Hospital thrown in). Carried on with me starting on Saturday (no end date as of yet) and now is with our S who woke me up with his cough cough coughing. He has finally fallen back asleep after about an hour straight of back rubs and forehead kisses.

So it isn't looking promising for my Sue class tomorrow. And I worked really hard on getting everything ready for the class. I mean, there was a lot of hand sewing done, my friends (something I didn't know how to do until last week-ish).

But I am not bothered in the least about missing out.

I am sure I will be able to take one of her courses in the future.

Because being a mama comes first (and I am not quite sure if in my sick, and now sleep deprived state, I would be any good at the course anyhow).

Last week, Courtney over at C Jane wrote about how she broke her commitment to blog every day until Christmas because her little one was sick and needed her more than her blog did. It was an amazing post about commitment and being a mother and what you go through when your child was sick.

I thought a lot about that post all day Friday, because it spoke to me in light of leaving my big corporate job because in my heart I knew my children needed me at home more than my job needed me or I needed my job.

I thought about that post Friday night as I stood in my driveway, uggs and pj's on, sobbing as I watched Darrell drive with E to the hospital. No one warns you when you have children that you will from that day forward wear your heart on the outside of your chest - with no rib cage or muscle to protect it, the heart is easily broken, especially when faced with the knowledge that your child is sick and that it is beyond you to heal them. I am humbled by the strength of parents who deal with the chronic illness, or worse, of their child, on a daily basis.

And I am thankful for the doctors and nurses who worked hard to make my E well.

So, there is a pretty big chance that it will be S and I snuggled up tomorrow watching ICarly all day (oh ICarly how I loathe your silly show).

But who knows .... Sue is teaching a course in Italy in the Spring ...

L xo

PS - If this post rambled, forgive me. It is almost 4 in the morning, after all.

Music Monday

2010-09-20T22:32:00.000-06:00

We haven't had many sunny days here in Calgary lately. It feels more like we live in Vancouver or something. Rain, rain, rain. The gloom is kinda getting to us all.

But

D and I off to Scottsdale for 6 days on Thursday. We were made for sunny days.

And

the sun is meant to come out starting Thursday so my sweet boys, who are also made for sunny days, will have sun too (and their Grandma too!)

L xo

PS - If I owe you a block from a bee, I am working furiously to get them all done before I leave. I don't want all those blocks hanging over my head. Next year, I am only joining one Bee. That's it. I just bit off more than I could chew, didn't I?

Dare to be Square

2010-09-15T11:55:00.003-06:00

Dare to Be Square Quilting by Boo Davis from Quiltsrÿche on Vimeo.

I may be late to the party on this one, but I just picked this book up yesterday and ohmygosh, I love it. I haven't done a lot of solid colour quilting but this book may change that. I absolutely love everything in this book. And I am picky. Which doesn't mean I don't pick up a book even though there may be only 2 patterns that I like. But it does mean I am not quick to wholeheartedly, without reservation tell you to take a look at something.

I am wholeheartedly, without reservation telling you to take a look at this book (or the video about the book - which, as an aside, I find very clever. The whole video/book thing. I used to review books for a national newspaper here in our sweet Canada and love all things books and, while the actual book will always be my first love, I am kinda digging technology as a means to get more people to read. But I digress).

Take a look at this book because it is quirky and fun. And has great patterns that everyone can do. And is really well written. That Boo has talent. And from the patterns, I would guess also a great sense of humour. Absolutely lovely, if I do say so myself.

I hope all is well with everyone. We have a dog with a stomach ailment at Casa Cohen. Restless nights to say the least. Poor sweet Chester.

L xo

PS - In non-quilting book news, I am starting the Harry Potter book series (yep, all 7) again, for the 8th time, in preparation for the movie release in November. Love them.

PPS - Boo's book is very cute and not offensive. Her website may be for some of you (just sayin because I don't want to offend anyone). I dig it because it shakes things up and I think that is a good thing. Some may not. (can you tell I am a lawyer, geesh, all the warning and waiver language ...)

Music Monday

2010-09-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

Well, well, well, here we are again with a Music Monday. I think every single preteen, teenage, twenty something girl needs to play this song over and over (advice from my almost 40 self who may now, finally, know a thing or two about this sort of thing). Listen to the lyrics girls. And go get a copy of Kelly Cutrone's book If You Have to Cry, Go Outside. I wish I had that book in my early twenties. Not everyone is going to love the book but it has some good advice, let me tell you. Even for all of us out of twenties ...

And don't we love Sara Bareillis? Yes, we do.

L xo

PS - This one is a dedication from my 20-ish self to that oh so awful ex-boyfriends from times gone by. While my hot yoga self would offer love and compassion to those who may have done me wrong in the past, the Leanne I know and love revels in the fact that karma is a bitch, baby. xoxo

PPS - Next Music Monday we are getting all up and positive on it, I promise. I am going to share my favourite album of right now. It's a good one. Promise.

Scenes From a Domestic Life

2010-09-10T10:27:00.001-06:00

Well here we are at Friday. We made it through another week, and we did well, didn't we? This was Chester and I yesterday. Laundry folding in the living room while we listen to Mindy Gledhill on the computer (I haven't downloaded her album to my iTouch yet).

Chester is at daycare today (playing with a schnauzer - how cute) . Boys at school. Yoga soon. Coffee with some "friends that are boys" later. And then a sewing session (and pizza) at Out of Hand. Hooray!

But first, more laundry and kitchen cleaning.

All in all, a pretty good day, don't you think. If I can get my act together, I'll post pics of what I get done tonight, tomorrow.

L xo

PS - Have an absolutely wonderful Friday.

PPS - There is snow on the mountains. I had the most amazing view driving home this morning. The sun was shining and there is snow on our Rocky Mountains (I know I said that already but snow = skiing and we LOVE that). It was beautiful. I am such a lucky girl.

Thursday

2010-09-09T22:23:00.000-06:00

Do you like my inventive title? It is late and I am making good on my blog every day this week promise to myself. Today was crazy - all the sewing I had planned ... not so much. Tomorrow for sure. It is just that life seems to get in the way of all of my good sewing intentions these days. I am sure it will all done ... eventually.

See you tomorrow.

L xo

PS - I made these pincushions for the first Pincushion Swap. I didn't sign up for the second - too much on my plate as it is. There are some amazing pincushions being made though. Kinda wish I had signed up.

I Am In Love ...

2010-09-08T17:04:00.001-06:00

with hexagons (even though I haven't made that many recently - only for my bee blocks - that's one of them up there.

with satellite radio - I know I am the last one to the party but just got it this weekend - love it.

with my dog - because sometimes he is the only thing I talk to for hours - he is good company and a great listener.

with hot yoga - I am back at it and it feels amazing - my last two classes focused on commitment and whether you wanted to be the light or the bulb - I am choosing light.

with working from home - it is sometimes a hard balancing act but I love having the opportunity to keep working while being able to drive my beautiful children to and from school.

with bee friends who are patient with me as I am always late with my blocks - you know who you are xoxo

with bluelily photography - they are coming back to Calgary in August and I have already signed us up to have them take our pictures again - big hooray.

with lots of other things too but I am going to my inlaws for dinner tonight and we are going to be late if I don't get going ...

Talk to you tomorrow (I told you I was blogging all week).

L xo

Pillow Talk

2010-09-07T00:00:00.001-06:00

I made this - start to finish. It is perhaps one of the only things that I have completed, sewing wise, it what seems like FOREVER. I used the amazing tutorial at Sewtakeahike and it was easy peasy. I wish I could keep this sweet pillow, but alas, it it for my Modern Swappers partner (I like the swap, hate the name - is that okay to say?). I have plans for more of these pillows for my own house. Let's see if I can get that done before next year.

L xo

PS - I wanted to post J.K. Rowling's Harvard speech last week but last week was a little crazy, with first week back to school and all. So here it is today. It is brilliant. I listen to it quite often because it is just so true (in my humble opinion).

J.K. Rowling Speaks at Harvard Commencement from Harvard Magazine on Vimeo.

PPS - I haven't shared this speech with the boys as of yet because I think they are too little to hear some of it. I will make sure they hear it when the time is right. You should share it too.

PPPS - I just realized I only posted 3 times in August. Let's blame it on huge life change (first month not at job), shall we?

Music Monday

2010-09-06T10:55:00.000-06:00

Finally ... a Music Monday.

The boys have started school.

I am winning the laundry war.

I have lots to show. Sewing wise, that is.

I am blogging every single day this week if it kills me. Just sayin.

L xo

PS - It was roundabout way from ... Nie Nie., C Jane, Blue Lily photography ... to this song ... to me. Found it last week. On the day I celebrated my 10th wedding anniversary. Very fitting song for my sweet D and me. !0 years.

Coming Together

2010-08-16T22:47:00.000-06:00

I have been at home and not at work for just over 2 weeks now. It has been a little bit of an adjustment for everyone. There have been good days and there have been bad days and there have been days where I have been called "the worst mother in the world" (thanks, S).

Last week, my parents took the children on a trip to B.C. I had a whole week to get it together - to figure out work, get things done around the house, etc. etc. etc. (I am fully aware that I have the most awesome parents on the planet).

The week started with me crying all the way home after dropping off the boys off with my parents. All 15 minutes were spent in a total sob fest. The worst mom in the world thing kinda got to me. And having them leave ... Broke my heart, I tell you.

Anyhow.

Work got done. 11 loads of laundry got done. Sewing did not get done.

Then D and I went to B.C. for the weekend to be with the boys and my parents.

And somehow, things just turned themselves around. I had the best weekend ever. We swam. The boys hit buckets of balls. We ate ice cream and had sleepover parties. Wonderful.

And today. Wonderful again.

The sewing room is almost all organized (when I say sewing room, I should say basement because I took out 11 bags of toys for Goodwill and 4 bags of garbage while organizing the "sewing room").

The boys went to tennis. I did grocery shopping.

I made dinner and my family actually ate it.

And I went to hot yoga for the first time in weeks and weeks and spent 75 minutes just saying "thank you".

See, it is all coming together. Everything feels right again.

L xo

PS - I have really missed my blog. Really.

It is An Epidemic

2010-08-12T18:56:00.000-06:00

Go here and see this at One Flew Over ...

L xo

PS - Funny to be able to say you know exactly what a person is going through. But I do.

Let Me Tell You

2010-08-12T10:19:00.000-06:00

I have no idea where time has gone. No idea. How could my last post have been July 26th? I have had more than enough to write about. Maybe that's the problem. So much to write about because so much going on. So much going on, no time for me. No time for me, no blogging. This makes me a little sad.

My last day of work in the office was July 29th. I have been working ever since. Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work from home but between the boys, work, a house that needs a huge amount of work, visitors and on and on and on ... not much getting done sewing wise.

And if you could see my sewing room. Yikes. I started to reorganize and I just made a bigger mess. It is still in mess form. Maybe today is the day for that room. We shall see.

Anyhow, hopefully you will bear with me while we find our groove over here. I don't suspect it will takes us long.

L xo

PS - we got our pictures taken by Blue Lily Photography on Sunday. I can't tell you how much I love Wendy and Tyler. They are amazing people. Absolutely lovely. My only regret ... I wore a grey dress. Had a massive headache and put the first thing on that I could find. No worries though. I know the pictures are going to be amazing. And I am hoping that we can get Wendy and Tyler to take our pictures for years and years to come. (thank you thank you thank you, Wendy and Tyler).

PPS - Wendy and Tyler taught me how to use my camera in one of their workshops. Amazing. I know all about my camera now. And I so want to take their next workshop .... how to get to Washington, D.C. in October .... hmmm ...

Music Monday

2010-07-26T11:03:00.000-06:00

Enjoy!

L xo

PS - Last 4 days of work. Yikes!

S on his 7th Birthday

2010-07-24T10:16:00.001-06:00

S on his 7th Birthday
Originally uploaded by {Leanne} lnwcohen

Well, well, well .... Look who is 7! So hard to believe that my baby is that old.

Now this S man is one amazing kid. I am so glad that he came only 15 months after his brother - he made us a true family.

He came out singing and hasn't stopped.

I love this beautiful boy more than words could ever convey.

I am the luckiest girl in the world - if you could meet my family, you would know why.

L xo

CORRECTION !!!!

2010-07-21T21:37:00.000-06:00

OH MY GOSH.

OH MY GOSH.

OH MY GOSH.

So, awhile back, I did a Pin it Forward post. My post followed that of an amazingly talented blogger named Emma Lamb. Her blog is beautiful. But if you read my post and clicked on her link, you wouldn't have seen her amazingly lovely blog.

No, you would have seen an entirely different blog.

OH MY GOSH.

And, until today, I had no idea I wasn't linking to the right site. None. Not at all.

My friend Melissa told me about it today.

And, when I went back and saw the link that SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN, I have to admit, I kinda laughed my butt off. Because it was so so so not the right link. AT ALL.

If you want to see the wrong link, just take a "L" out of Emma's blog address.

L xo

PS - I am so always using the "test this link" button on Blogger now. Really.

PPS - Dear Emma, I am so very sorry. Yours truly, L

Lemons. Lemonade.

2010-07-21T14:17:00.001-06:00

Since the Quilt Town Massacre, all things quilty have been getting done around here. You would think that the opposite would be true, but we like to do things different chez moi. Lemons. Lemonade (the drink of choice around these parts).

The "getting things done" part in is thanks, in no small part, to my amazing mum. Let me tell you, that woman is beyond amazing. Like just about the best thing ever! When I cut my finger, my sweet husband called her right away and the next day, after a 3 hour drive, there was my mum at my doorstep. And boy, did she help out. If you get a package from me in the next little while, that beautiful handwriting on the package, that's her. Actually, the fact that you are getting a package at all, that's her.

Would you like to see what I did?

I got lots of blocks done. The one at the top is for Jessica and our Bee's Knees VQB.

These are for Sherri and our Modern Tradition Bee {please ignore the ugly ironing board background - if you want to make me a new cover, I won't say no}

I also redid the letter T for Shea since she didn't get my original T and K for our Modern Quilting Bee. Check out the blocks that people in the group have done for me for June. Beyond gorgeous.

These sweet little pincushions are for my partner in the Scrappy Pincushion Swap.

The little hexies are for one of my blocks in the Bee's Knees VQB (August is my month and I know it is going to be amazing).

The fabric for the hexies is Josephine Kimberling's Garden Glam. Isn't it just lovely?

I have even more to show you but ... I'll save it for tomorrow.

L xo

HOORAY

2010-07-20T13:36:00.005-06:00

Someone taught himself how to ride his bike! How awesome is that? We are so proud of our S man.

Pretty much nothing that kid can't do. Love him and his brother to bits.

L xo

Music Mondays - Sarah Bareilles - Gravity

2010-07-19T01:00:00.000-06:00

L xo

Franken-finger Friday

2010-07-16T18:53:00.001-06:00

Shall we discuss the dangers of rotary cutters or do you think the pictures serve as enough of a warning?

L xo

PS - I now have to dress and clean my finger on my own every day. There were tears. More for feeling sorry for myself and not because it hurts all that much.

PPS - If you could send my finger some positive energy to help the graft take, I would really appreciate it.

The Block that Took My Finger

2010-07-13T15:28:00.000-06:00

At least it is a pretty good one, or at least I think so. Finished up today (it came away unscathed in the Quilt Town Massacre, as we like to call Sunday night). It is all Flutterby goodness - the instructions were a non-traditional block of our liking. I know the pinwheel is traditional but I am hoping the wonkiness will be enough non-traditional for my fellow Bee-er, Viv.

Thanks so much for the sweet thoughts about the whole finger thing. It doesn't even hurt! Sleeping with my arm up isn't the most fun I have ever had, but, all in all, pretty good times.

L xo

What I Wanted to Blog About

2010-07-12T18:41:00.000-06:00

yesterday was this ... our sweet E leaving for sleep away camp for an entire week! We are so proud of his big self and even though his mama had big tears, she knows he is going to have the time of is life.

Why couldn't I post this yesterday? Why is there no music today? Because I cut off the top of my left index finger with a rotary cutter, that's why. Yep. No tip of finger left. Morphine, an ambulance ride, nausea, skin graft, stitches ... the whole shebang!

No idea what it looks like because it is all wrapped up. I'll see it on Thursday when I meet with the plastic surgeon.

Who knew quilting was an extreme sport?

L xo

On A Roll ...

2010-07-08T10:30:00.000-06:00

I finished my Pillow Talk Swap pillow just in the nick of time. I am 2 for 2, in case you were counting. This is the only picture I have since the pillow is off to its new home. This pillow is BIG - a whole 24". I machine quilted the centre and the chandelier-ly things in the border. I hand quilted the bird outline in the centre and did colonial knots (big thanks to Deirdre for teaching me) for some of the turquoise and pink dots. The back is more of the Echino fabric. I can't wait to see what it looks like when it is washed and crinkly (I made it super sturdy so that it could be washed easily because, in my house at least, a pillow this size will be sat on the floor in no time). I really liked this project even though these are not my go to colours (I didn't even know what a "jewel tone" was, really. Ask my friend, Greta. I had to ask her to tell me what she thought they were.)

I think on a go forward basis, I am going to do less bees and more swaps - more of a pick and choose kind of thing. Lisa at Vintage Modern Quilts wrote a good blog post about bees and the like.

I think I will follow her lead.

L xo

PS - I went to my embroidery class yesterday. Have lots of catch up but think I am really going to learn a lot.

PPS - One of my clients just wrote me a very nice email about my leaving work. Was the first time since I gave notice that I [almost] cried. I think I keep forgetting what a big change this is. Not that I regret my decision for one second. I can't tell you how excited and grateful I am to have the opportunity to spend more time with my wonderful children. It is just a big change, is all.

PPPS - Melanie at Texas Freckles won this week's Spoonflower challenge with her cheater fabric. It is gorgeous. Greta and I are going to split a yard. It will go towards our hexes obsession. I'll post soon about that. I even have a picture of when it all started for me.

PPPS - Hello, my name is Leanne and I am addicted to making hexes.

I Finished Something!

2010-07-07T10:51:00.000-06:00

I know, I know. Hard to believe. But true. All my Mod Bento Boxes are done. And on their way to Jessica. Overnight courier, of course. Because I can't keep a date straight to save my life right now. But let's focus on the positive. THEY ARE ALL DONE !!!!

My pincushion for the Pincushion Swap is done also. Just had to go get crushed walnuts in the lizard department of Petland. That was a bit of an adventure. No idea what I am going to do with the remaining gazillion pounds of litter I have left.

Pincushion, anyone?

L xo

Music Mondays

2010-07-05T19:35:00.004-06:00

I am sure that you thought that if I could forget something as important as my embroidery class, then, for sure, I would forget Music Monday.

Not so. Here you go. (hey, that rhymes).

Enjoy.

L xo

PS - Hannah Georgas is from Vancouver. We love Vancouver. Very much.

Are You Kidding Me?

2010-07-05T16:08:00.000-06:00

Is it really July? Can someone, please, tell me where June went?

Life has been a blur. Far too much craziness and it is beginning to wear on us all ...

When you have 2 people having 2 surgeries (the S man and his dad), 2 people finishing school for the year (hooray, we are on our way to grade 2 and 3), 1 person finishing work for awhile (why doesn't that free up any time?), 1 family adding a dog to the mix (we love you, Chester), 1 person who can't say no and signs up for everything (so has no reason to complain), you land up with Crazy Town (population 4 and a dog).

But, things are looking up, my friends. Blocks are getting done, pillows are sent. I honestly think that by this time next week, I may be caught up (doesn't hurt that 1 of my bees postponed our blocks for a month and 1 hasn't even sent out July - thank goodness).

And, as of tomorrow, I am back at hot yoga (serenity, now).

L xo

PS - Can you believe I missed my first embroidery class 2 weeks ago? I can (see above re: Crazy Town). Not this week, my friends, not this week.

PPS - E goes to sleepover camp on Sunday. Can't believe it. Stay tuned ...

No Music but ...

2010-06-28T20:19:00.000-06:00

I gave notice at my job today. My last day is July 30.

I am going to be a stay at home mom (mostly) for a little bit.

Wish me luck.

L xo

PS - Now that the stress of actually leaving my job is gone, I may be able to post more. Or sew more. Or both.

PPS - We may have a mice problem at our cabin. I may have to sell that place. I hate rodents. (Not relevant to today's post but can't get it out of my mind).

PPS - Hope everyone is well. I miss blogging. How weird is that?

Music Mondays

2010-06-21T19:41:00.000-06:00

Holy moly, what a week I had. Illness, surgery (not me), last days of school ... the list goes on and on.

Crazy town.

Am desperately tired still. But couldn't miss 2 Music Mondays in a row, so here you have it - and in French!

It is in keeping with my beautiful bilingual country (even though it is really from France - we love all things French here)

Back soon with the world's biggest blog update ever. Promise.

L xo

Pin it Forward - What Home Means to Me

2010-06-11T00:00:00.012-06:00

Today is my Pin It Forward day.

I am so excited to be part of the Pin It Forward - a blog mash up put together by one of my all time faves in the inspiration department, Victoria of SF Girl by the Bay and some really talented folks at Pinterest.

(To be honest, I am a little overwhelmed by the company I am keeping by participating in this amazing blog it forward project - yesterday's post was written by the very talented, Emma Lamb - you have to follow her blog, really.)

The lovely theme of this Pin It Forward is "What Home Means to Me".

While we plan our renovation and decide the colours of walls and floors, it becomes more and more clear to me that my home does mean not the four walls I live in, but the life I have with the 3 people I live with me inside those four walls.

Since it would be an impossible task to put into words what home means to be, these pictures are as close as I can get (a big thanks to Pinterest for making it oh so easy to put my board together. I am in love with this Pinterest, it is true).

So ...

Home means everything to me.

Home means that I can be at my best and my worst and be loved either way.

Home means days full of sunshine and children laughing in the backyard.

Home is where I am safe and find comfort. And sometimes, sleep.

Home means old stories read, new ones imagined ....

and art made.

Home means lots of cake ...

and celebrations and dance parties while making pancakes on Saturday morning.

Home means ...

Without my three boys ...

home would hold little meaning for me.

L xo

PS - As part of Pin it Forward, go check out The Road to Wonder Tomorrow on Monday. Better yet, check out the list at SF Girl by the Bay, and visit all the lovely blogs and their "What Home Means to Me" posts. They are a ton of amazing blog posts to be read.

PPS - You can check out my entire Pinterest board on What Home Means to Me here. I have started a few other boards too. Once you get going, it is pretty hard to stop pinning. Think of it as this week's For You Friday - you really need to get going on this. Trust. Go get an invite. Now.

PPPS - I grew up in an amazing home (and I don't mean the structure). I owe my parents everything for working so hard to make sure my brother and I knew that wherever we went in life, we could always come home. I hope that my children will always carry our home in their hearts.

What I am Reading

2010-06-09T13:00:00.001-06:00

Reading and sewing do not go hand in hand. Usually, it is one or the other. I am not sure how you would do the two at the same time, actually.

Sometimes, to satisfy my craving for reading, I'll listen to books on CD or download them from itunes to listen to while I sew. Do you ever get that way? Where you can't bear not to be reading?

I have just reread The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. I only reread it so that I could read the whole series together and now I can't find where I put the second book. Annoying. I do that though. When a new book in a series comes out, I reread the series from the beginning. So, for example, I have read the Harry Potter series a gazillion times. I am planning on rereading it again in time for the new movie in the Fall. Strange, I know.

Before that, it was Cutting for Stone which was amazing. Amazing, amazing.

Now it is Her Fearful Symmetry. I can't put this book down. Not good when you have so much sewing to catch up on. This book is by the author who wrote The Time Traveller's Wife. That book had me sobbing so loud that my husband came running into our bedroom convinced someone had died. Not lying.

The movie version of The Time Traveller's Wife was an unbearable disappointment that I would rather not talk about. Not lying.

I have only read about 70 pages of Her Fearful Symmetry, but this book has had me from the first pages.

Don't you love when that happens?

I'll keep you updated on how it all goes ...

L xo

Things I Learned ...

2010-06-08T21:55:00.004-06:00

making my first modified bento box ... (which doesn't look like a modified bento box because I haven't cut it up yet - waiting for instructions from sweet Greta) for the Mod Bento Box Swap.

I need to pin EVERYTHING. I so want to be one of those people that just whip things together but I have to come to the sad realization that the "whip it together" kind of quilter just isn't me. To just "whip it together" means to just pick it apart later when seams don't measure up. So, I have to pin. It takes more time, that is for sure. And while we are talking about it, how do these people whip up quilt after quilt after quilt? It seems like they must have elves helping out or something. I do not have any elves.
I am also not one of these people that can cut a bazillion layers of fabric at once. Oh no, not me. Because why be good at at least 1 time saving technique? I, rather, have to cut in little bits to make sure everything doesn't go wonky. Even then, my cutting is sometimes wonky.
I think my first instinct in making this block was to make sure everything "goes" and thus, my bento box turned out too matchy matcherson. I think there is a "throw caution to the wind" (kind of) component to these boxes. Not having to plan everything out may make for some gorgeous blocks. Sounds good to me.
I have a lot of fabric. It is kind of crazy. While I believe this will help with the with the matchy problem of above, so much choice has lead to a very big mess in my sewing room. There will be no pictures of said big mess. I need to clean it up. I also need to clean up the rest of the house. I didn't learn that from making the block. I learned that from looking around while typing this.

I think this will be an ongoing list that grows as I make more of these. I'll let you know.

L xo

[Edited to Add]

PS - Add to list that I am learning that I may not be good at following instructions. The reason why I didn't cut the block up last night is because I was unsure whether it needed to be four 7.75" or 8" squares. If I had gone back to the instructions, I wouldn't have had to send Greta an email or ask the Flickr group (thanks, Meg!) because it was clearly written that the blocks are 7.75" (thanks, Jessica!).

Music Mondays

2010-06-07T22:23:00.000-06:00

Better late than never. It has been a long, long day. My sweet S had minor surgery today so our day started at 5. All is well.

I worked on my pillow a little but nothing to show, really.

L xo

PS - The next few weeks are going to be crazy sewing time. I have to finish blocks for bees and quilts for babies. Wish me luck

PPS - Sorry for missing For You Friday - hopefully back this week.

I Am in Awe

2010-06-01T09:09:00.000-06:00

Let's take a minute to look at this pillow, shall we? It is my pillow. Not made by me (I doubt I could ever do such a good job) but for me! Made by my Pillow Swap 3 pal, Val.

Can you believe it?

I am in love with this pillow. It is beyond gorgeous and made so well. As this was a blind swap, I really lucked out, didn't I?

This pillow has made my day. Really.

L xo

PS - If there is a Pillow Swap 4, I am signing up and crossing my fingers I get Val again. Hint Hint.

An Almost Productive Weekend

2010-06-01T07:30:00.000-06:00

Fussy Bee Block #2
Originally uploaded by lnwcohen

So. Here's the lowdown on sewing this weekend ...

Two Fussy Cut Bee blocks done (the picture is one of them).

One string block sewn at 3/8" seam allowance instead of 3/16" (don't ask why it isn't 1/4" because it isn't my block).

The letter "T" sewn. The letter "K" still in the planning stages.

Pillow Swap pillow started and plan for completion awaiting sewing this evening. If my swap partner doesn't like it, I'll take it back because I do.

Fabric for my June blocks mailed.

Porkchop Swap charms mailed (I am thinking that I will have lots from other packs to share with anyone who wants them - just send me a note).

Hexagon charms sent to my girls.

I think I am almost getting my groove back. Having terrible weather and snow helped. Nothing to do but stay inside. A lemons, lemonaide thing.

L xo

Music Monday - Eva Cassidy - Somewhere over the Rainbow

2010-05-31T10:07:00.001-06:00

Eva Cassidy - Somewhere Over The Rainbow - Breathtaking Performance

When E was born, we used to play Eva Cassidy's cd all the time to him. I absolutely love all the songs she sings. I think it is a great way to start a Monday.

Enjoy your Monday (holiday or not).

L xo

Snow on Saturday

2010-05-29T09:05:00.000-06:00

This is what we woke up to this morning. And it isn't like we didn't see snow earlier in the week. I love global warming - sure seems to be working.

From Where I Sit

2010-05-28T19:37:00.000-06:00

So, I couldn't come up with anything good for For You Friday but I am on it. Maybe tomorrow (insert quirky Saturday title here - can't come up with anything good for that either).

Anyhow.

This is me. Right now-ish. I am in the planning stages of my Pillow Swap 3 pillow. And I am making lists about all the Bee blocks I need to do this weekend. I am kind of glad for the not-so-nice weather (read SNOW) because then I don't feel bad about staying indoors.

So, want to know what is in the picture?

Jewel tone fabric for the pillow. And a mix of textures. Please tell me you think these are jewel tones. Jewel tones are not my forte. Also for said pillow, Denyse Schmidt's Quilt book. That's all you get on that though. Don't want to give too much away.
On the right, my sketchbook that I got from art class today. Pen sketching today. Didn't not like it at first (so hard). Am liking it more. And found some inspiration on flickr and am going to do pursue it and see if I can combine the pen drawing with fabric - might be a way to like it more.
Coffee cup - have I told you how many blocks I need to finish this weekend? Enough said.
Clutch from Emerson Made and bracelet from Hermes. Obviously I have a little tidying to do as these should not be on the dining room table.
Sketch done by one of my classmates. She did it in about 3 seconds. I stole it. It is gorgeous and I am going to frame it - crease in the middle and all.

I know all my American friends have a nice long weekend ahead. Hope it is enjoyed by one and all.

L xo

PS - Do you like how I didn't add any links to this post. I am that lazy today. Forgive me.

Charmed, I'm Sure ...

2010-05-26T10:59:00.000-06:00

So my friend Greta talked me into doing hexagons. I just learned to sew with a sewing machine last June and have never done any hand sewing so the thought of hexagons is a little daunting. But, never one to say "no", here I am starting hexagons and attempting this little hexagon along with Texas Freckles (except there has been no alonging yet - this may be something that gets done to and from the drive to the cabin).

In order to have enough fabric to make all these little hexagons (I am doing the 1.5" ones), I have cut up a 4 charm packs and am going to do some swapping with Greta, Greta's mom, and my friend Ruth. I have cut up a Flutterby pack, a Hushabye pack, a Nicey Jane pack and a Summer in the City pack. Pretty good, I think. I know the other girls are cutting up some beautiful fabric too so I am really looking forward to it.

I am also doing a little Porkchop Swap (I have no idea what that means) with some girls over that the ORBQ. Haven't done anything with this group before so not sure what I'll be getting (we are cutting up 25 5x5 squares and sending them on to 7 other people). Once I get my fabrics, if there are some that aren't my thing, I plan on putting a package of them all up for grabs. I am sure that someone will want them.

All in all, lots of fabric coming my way soon. Got to love that, right?

L xo

PS - I sent out my May block fabric, my June block fabric and I know EXACTLY what I am doing for my July blocks. Just need to finish everyone else's blocks. If it is one of yours, sorry. I promise it will be done shortly.

PPS - To my darling children - I realize the end of school is right around the corner and that you are oh so very tired of EVERYTHING but, guess what? So are Dad and I. So let's cut each other a lot of slack. Before I send you to school with a for sale sign around your neck. Love you always, Mom. xo

PPPS - You should see the blocks people are making for my Beatnik Bee month. OHMYGOSH.

How Does Tunes for Tuesday Sound?

2010-05-25T13:28:00.000-06:00

Well, all my great plans for sewing were put aside for 3 days of gardening. I am so behind on so many things that it isn't even remotely funny anymore. And as much as I would hate to do it, I think I have to drop out of a bee or two. With everything that is going on, I am not getting to my Bee blocks, let alone the things I really want to sew. And this is suppose to be fun for me, right? And it isn't fair to others to continually have to wait while I get my act together.

Time management, which used to be pretty easy for me, is no longer a strong suit. It is pretty much non-existent right now, actually. Which isn't a bad thing, per se. Just a little rushing here and there. And an inability to complete any given task. (Okay, it sounds worse than it is). But at least time is spent having fun outside with happy boys (and their million friends in our backyard), happy husband, and happy puppy. And some new friends that we love, love, love (campfires with friends are the best thing ever - marshmallows and Bulmer's Cider go quite well together, just so you know).

Anyhow, yesterday was a holiday here in Canada so I didn't get around to posting (see above re: garden) for Music Monday.

Hopefully this song is worth the wait. I love this song. Hope you do too.

L xo

PS - I have quilt posts coming. Stay tuned.

For You Friday

2010-05-21T10:26:00.001-06:00

Well, the posting hasn't been all that this week, has it? What with a new dog, a garden that needs some sprucing up, a job, and two children pretty much done with school even though we have 18 school days left, there hasn't been much sewing happening. But, there has been a little reading about sewing and knitting - right before bed with a 3 pound ball of loveliness beside me (that's Chester, in case you didn't know). Pretty good way to end these busy days, I think.

So this Friday, thanks to my late night reading, I am sharing some crafty book goodness. NOW, before you think I broke with the book plan, let me tell you that these were pre-orders (thank goodness for pre-orders or else my withdrawal would be even worse). No new books, fiction or non-fiction were purchase by me for me this week.

Anyhow, here are my new favourite crafty books (in no particular order) ...

Oh my gosh, it does not get cuter than this book. The little birds are beyond sweet. There are patterns for mini quilts and embroidery and a whole bunch of other birdy goodness too! Love it.

I bought this book on a whim and I have to say, I am pleasantly surprised. And unlike most craft books I buy, I think I could make practically everything in this book (I am an overachiever, in case that hasn't been made clear yet). There are 35 projects, just so you know. This book is full of great ways to use up all those fabric scraps.

I am back at loving knitting right now. It is easier to watch tv with my husband when we are both in the same room and I am not in front of a sewing machine. (TV season is almost over though ... more sewing, perhaps? Probably not as the weather is too good to be inside). This book is full of lovely "take with you" projects. Since it is very difficult to take a sewing machine wherever I go, taking knitting fulfills my incessant need to always have something crafty in my hands.

So there you go. Some crafty goodness for your Friday.

L xo

PS - Little Birds book is published by Stash Publishing.

PPS - Sewing Bits and Pieces is published by Wiley

PPPS - Kntting 24/7 is published by Melanie Falick Books.

Lily Allen - Womanizer

2010-05-17T09:58:00.001-06:00

Even though we have been busy with Chester all weekend, I couldn't miss out on a Music Monday. I love Lily Allen - she is just so cheeky. I could skip the Womanizer song when sung by Britney Spears but I do like this version. I wonder what would happen if we slowed down all those ridiculous pop songs on the radio - probably we would be mortified about what is actually sung (or at least I would).

Have an amazing week. I think I will.

Talk soon,

L xo

Hello, My Name Is ...

2010-05-16T21:56:00.001-06:00

CHESTER

Meet the newest addition to our family. Chester is the sweetest little puppy ever. We are all hopelessly in love with this little dog.

I am sure I'll have lots of posts about our new "baby".

L xo

For You Friday

2010-05-14T09:00:00.001-06:00

[photo courtesy of Saffron Craig]

This week's For You Friday actually has something to do with fabric. This is the Elk Landscape fabric from Saffron Craig's new fabric line - Forest Elementals.

Purple isn't usually my thing but I am liking it more and more. Especially in this fabric. And from what I have been reading, purple is HUGE for Fall. (Aren't I just on top of it or what?).

Saffron has done up a gorgeous quilt in her new fabrics. And it is available as a kit. (I am an enabler, I know).

And Kate Conklin did up an amazing one too!

So there we go. A For You Friday that is actually tied into the blog. Now go get some fabric!

L xo

Could You Do It?

2010-05-12T15:02:00.001-06:00

So this is a non-fiction book written by Susan Hill about the year she decided not to buy any new books but rather read the ones that she already had in her house. And in the end, she compiles a list of the 40 books she can't live without.

FOR A WHOLE YEAR, PEOPLE! Now, that would be hard. I buy books even more than I buy fabric. I love reading (I know you already know that). Not buying books? Hard to imagine. But I have a lot of books. Like a lot, a lot. So it wouldn't be as if I couldn't find something to read.

Could you go an entire year without buying that "thing" you like so much - books, fabric, shoes ...

I am going to give it a try. I am going to set myself the goal of no books until the end of the year. That doesn't include books I may need for educational purposes. And I can swap or borrow books from kind souls who take pity on me because I haven't read the latest and greatest. And it doesn't include books for the boys (although they are armed with plenty o' gift cards for the local bookshop, so they will be fine). It can't include books as presents either (hint, hint).

Kinda crazy, don't you think? But I think it will be good. And after I read a book, if it isn't a "you have to read this" kind of book, it is going to the local Sally Anne. It is a de-cluttering project of sorts.

L xo

PS - You know what else I am going to do? No fabric until the Fall (September-ish). I have a ton of projects I want to do and have everything I need to do them, so I should be fine. Again, no fabric doesn't include swaps or gifts.

PPS - I may need help. Professsional help. I'll let you know.

EDITED TO ADD - PPS - My fabric diet does NOT include my preorders of Tufted Tweets, Bliss, Castle Peeps or Far Far Away II . I am sure you can understand why.

Overheard on the Way to School

2010-05-11T09:00:00.001-06:00

Let me set the stage for you ... the boys are watching Little Einsteins in the car on the way to school. They are a little old for the show but S is digging it so I let them take my computer to watch in the car. D and I are in the front, listening to CBC Radio 2 (oh, how I love you CBC Radio 2) ...

The following is a snippet of the conversation between E and S that occured while they were watching ...

E - We are smarter than the Little Einsteins. Why are they called "Einsteins'? They aren't Einsteins, we are.

They both go back to watching ....

E - We know all this stuff. Turns to S and says ... And this is the proof of a good education, my young friend.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Does it get better than that last comment?

I know I didn't write anything on Mother's Day. I chose, instead, to spend the day away from the computer (for the most part) and with my family. But I couldn't have summed up my day better than that little conversation. Because as much as I love my beautiful children, I really like them too. And that is above and beyond what I expected when I became a mother. Really liking your kids as much as you love them. I look at my children and, if they were my age (and not my children), I would want them as friends. They are bright, funny, charming, ridiculous, messy, loving, generous, taxing, sweet, and so much more.

There are no words that could ever accurately convey what they mean to me.

While my mushy heart swells at the sweet handmade gifts and the heartfelt words and kisses on Mother's Day, it isn't just one day of the year for me. It is my blessed, sweet life every day. Not that it isn't hard some days. Not that some days I don't want to throw in the towel or put them on the curb for give away. But I every day I am made a better person for knowing those two children. And being their mother is an honour.

L xo

PS - All I learned about being a mother, I learned from mine. It is a gift to be able to say that I am my mother's daughter.

Music Mondays

2010-05-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

I love Sarah Harmer's music. She is from Kingston, Ontario, where I did my Law degree (it was the best of times, it was the worst of times - stories for another day). I could listen to Sarah all day. And sometimes, I do. There are so many albums to choose from. So go choose one. You won't be disappointed. And don't forget to dance a little. Whether someone is watching or not. It's good for you.

Enjoy this little song, my friends. Have a great Monday.

L xo

PS - I am good little clock. That is soon to change. More on that some day soon.

For Your Friday

2010-05-07T09:00:00.000-06:00

This is for you. Because it is For You Friday. This is the best idea for people who want to write down their lives but have no time to do so. Or maybe they have the time but they don't want to spend it all writing stuff down. Or maybe they don't have something to write every single day. I am an "all of the above" girl. So this is the best journal, in the history of all my sorry attempts to journal, for me. So I thought I'd share it with you.

Go take a look at the Simple Diary website. It is pretty awesome (that's a tie in from last week - wink wink). Order one up. You won't regret it.

L xo

PS - I got mine while I was at Anthropology in New York. I also got a few other things while I was there. Let's not talk about it. I am sure the bills are in the mail already.

Two On Tuesday

2010-05-04T11:21:00.000-06:00

As you know, I have nothing but time on my hands. Loads and loads of time. So I decided to take on two new things. The Hexagon Charm Quilt along (as you can see above) and the Pillow Talk Swap #3 (no button as of yet).

Given all the other things I have planned ... a follow me from pattern to quilt with Sometimes Crafter's Patchwork Memories pattern, a small along with a few friends doing up our version of Film in the Fridge's Postcards From the Park quilt, bee blocks (and my ongoing love/hate relationship with them) ... I won't be sleeping any time soon.

But who needs sleep anyhow? And busy is good. Keeps my mind from the million "what ifs" I have going right now.

L xo

PS - I have lots of Bee blocks to show you but I don't have photos. Because the weather isn't cooperating at all. We are in the midst of our second snow storm this month. Hopefully we'll get some sunshine soon because I need to put these in the mail right away. And if I don't put up pictures, who is going to believe I sew?

PPS - I don't like the new Blogger setup (except the test the links button). Just sayin.

Music Mondays

2010-05-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

In our second instalment of Music Mondays, we have Laura Viers and her song Summer is the Champion. We hear this song a lot on our way to school on CBC Radio 2 (it is the only radio station I will let my children listen to after my 6 year old asked me what "dancing on your disco stick" meant. I mean, really).

And it is almost Summer. That is a good thing. We love sunshine in this family. Hopefully this song will add some sunshine to your day.

Have a great Monday.

L xo

Yesterday I went to Kindergarten

2010-05-01T09:58:00.006-06:00

Adult art kindergarten, that is. And it was amazing. My children have been taking art classes from the most wonderful Miss Catherine at Art in the Box, for years now. It is really, really hard to get into Miss Catherine's classes because she is so amazing and the classes are so amazing and once you go into her studio you pretty much fall in love right then and there. There is no breaking up with Miss Catherine's art classes. It is a forever sort of thing.

So, I lucked out. And got into one of her adult classes. I missed the first one because I was in NYC (good excuse, I think). Yesterday was my first class and we did circles. Kandinsky-like circles. And worked on mixing colours - just the primary ones, to see what we could come up with. I loved making colours. Even the colours that wouldn't be my favourite anywhere else, were pretty amazing ... because I made them. It was wonderful.

I am not done with my painting though but I'll show you when I am done.

L xo

PS - This art class is pretty intimidating for me. I can sew and I can knit but you can learn those things. Making art is different, in my mind. It can't be "learned" per se. What an amazing challenge I have set for my type A personality. I am looking forward to seeing what comes of it.

PPS - Miss Catherine also teaches art at my children's school. They did Kandinsky circles last year and E has a collection of them that we have hung on a wall at the cabin. E's collection comes from his birthday party last year - all his friends made him one. I love them all and having them on the wall at our cabin is a gift. They infuse the room with a joy that only children's art can. We are all better for it.

PPPS - My children make the best cheerleaders. They had their art class after mine and saw my painting. They were so genuinely encouraging and so full of praise. It was heart melting. And made me feel so good as a mama - that I am hearing them use the same words we so purposely say to them. They hear us and they know. Amazing!

For Your Friday

2010-04-30T15:49:00.003-06:00

On the heels of Music Mondays, we here at Quilts A Bit brings you For You Friday. Yep. This is for you. Isn't that a great way to start your weekend? With something just for you? This For You Friday is a book recommendation. Who knows what you'll get next week.

This is a good book.

Because it is about all those things in our lives that are awesome. It is a long list. And this list is full of things that I can honestly say I overlook all the time. Which is a shame. There is a lot of awesomeness out there, and you don't even have to look for it. You just need to stop overlooking it.

And the commentary in the Book of Awesome is lovely, in a "make your day" kind of way.

Some of the things in the Book of Awesome include:

Bakery Air
The Sound of Scissors Cutting Construction Paper
Seeing Someone Laugh in Their Sleep.

The book has lots more awesome things. I swear it will make you smile. Really.

So, from me to you, The Book of Awesome. Enjoy.

L xo

PS - The Book started as a website - 1000 Awesome Things.

PPS - The author is Neil Pasricha.

Home Again, Home Again

2010-04-28T11:42:00.003-06:00

Well, hello there ...

I wish I had pictures of New York to show you. I don't because I didn't pull my camera out once. I wish I could tell you I went to Purl Soho and bought tons of fabric and saw my friend Ruth but I didn't. I mean, I did go but I missed her, which was easy to do because the place was CRAZY. I didn't buy anything because it was chaotic.

I am going back to New York in June with my charming husband and will spend a Saturday there while he goes to a baseball game. I will come home with lots of fabric then. I am hoping that I can convince Ruth to give me another chance and we can meet up in June (please ???).

All in all, the trip was okey dokey and a good time was had by all. I missed my family like crazy but had a great time with my friends and made some new ones as well. I stayed up much too late every single night. I am paying for it now.

I did buy a few knitting kits from Wool and the Gang. Very cool.

I have not even looked at my sewing machine. I will get back at it soon.

L xo

PS - I can't wait to talk to all my quilting friends - weird to go 5 days without a hello.

PPS - We are expecting a blizzard here in Calgary today. Fun times.

Music Mondays

2010-04-26T16:25:00.000-06:00

So, I have decided to start our week off on the right foot. And to that end, I introduce to you, Music Mondays. Every Monday (fingers crossed), I am going to post for you a video of some of the music I listen to while I happily sew away on all my quilting projects.

While the songs may not always be your cup of tea, I thought it would be kind of fun to share some of my favourite music with you. And I hope that, if you are so inclined, that you will do the same. Doesn't have to be every Monday, or even a Monday, for that matter, just share a little something you like too.

Might be a great way to get to know one another better. We shall see.

L xo

Guess Where I Am ...

2010-04-24T22:09:00.000-06:00

[Image courtesy of Purl Soho]

Yes, yes, New York, obviously. But most probably, as you read this, I am inside those doors and am trying to catch my breath as I take in all of the gorgeous yarn, fabric and haberdashery that make Purl Soho the lovely store that it is.

Jealous?

L xo

Reading

2010-04-22T00:00:00.001-06:00

I love reading. It is my favourite thing to do. Right now I am reading "Cutting for Stone". It is amazing.

You should read it.

L xo

PS - When I say I am reading this book, I am not lying. Right now, I am on a plane to New York and, if I was a betting man, I'd bet that I am reading this book. Unless the Ativan has kicked in, in which case, I am sleeping. I told you I don't like flying ...

All Cut Up

2010-04-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

Well, the Beatnik bee blocks are done and are ready to send. Choosing 6 different blocks may not have been the most time saving idea I have ever had. But, you see, I wanted to make sure that this quilt was different - for me and my fellow bee-ers. And the way that I thought I could do that was to give everyone 2 different blocks. Which meant that I had a lot of figuring to do. I am sure that I've told you that numbers are my strong suit. So I cut everything up in a way that made sense to me and (hopefully) gave everyone more than enough fabric. It took more time than I would have thought.

To be honest, I really wanted to do my Charley Harper quilt. And one day I will. But it didn't seem right for this Bee. Not sure why.

L xo

PS - I am almost all packed.

PPS - Thank you to my sweet friends who left such nice messages for me on my Crocodile Tears post. You are very kind and I so appreciate your words.

PPPS - I'll have some surprises for you here while I am in NYC for 5 days.

Bananas

2010-04-20T09:08:00.004-06:00

I think my sweet children knew that I was (PAST TENSE) having a hard time going to New York on Thursday because they pulled out all the stops this morning.

I mean, those two boys drove me bananas!!!

Just like that, New York doesn't seem like a bad idea at all.

L xo

PS - How much cutting of fabric for Bee Blocks can a girl take? It seems to be taking FOREVER.

Crocodile Tears

2010-04-19T11:11:00.009-06:00

[photo from Nest Pretty Things]

So, as you know, I am off to New York at the end of the week. While at one time I was super excited to go, this is no longer the case.

If you would have told me, even a year ago, that I would want to cancel a trip to New York with friends to stay home with my family, I think I would have laughed. Not because I wouldn't want to be with my lovely family, but because who in their right mind passes up a trip to New York with the girls ...

Because a trip to New York means sleeping in a king size bed all by myself with no one to wake me up early. And it is quiet time without someone saying "what should I do now" or "mama, will you play with me". And it is meals eaten while seated and not on the run trying to get one of two from point A to point B. And just time. Time to myself. Precious time.

And for all the reasons above, that should make me want to go, I don't want to go at all. The thought of sleeping alone seems oh so lonely. And not hearing those voices, heartbreaking. And missing having to get here and there while we sing "Down By the Bay" makes me very, very sad.

There have been tears. Great, big crocodile tears at the thought of getting on the plane. Silly, right? But it doesn't feel silly. It feels like a big rock of regret in my stomach.

Isn't it funny how our priorities constantly change? All I want is to be home with my wonderfully lovely little boys and my most charming husband. Even on the days I think I have had enough of all 3 of them and I might just try to run away.

L xo

PS - I am blaming hot yoga for all of this. You see, in hot yoga, I spend a lot of time giving thanks for the amazing life I have - for my beautiful family, my friends, my health, the sun in Spring ... And I think the more I give thanks, the more aware I am of how good I have it. And the more aware I am, the more I just want to capture it all up in a jar - to keep this magical life safe and sound.

PPS - I am putting my trust out there to the Universe that my family will be well taken care of while I am gone.

PPPS - I love birdcages. Love them. And I love Nest Pretty Things too. A lot.

A Pain in the Neck

2010-04-18T21:00:00.005-06:00

I had plans for this weekend, let me tell you. I had plans. To sew, sew, sew.

They kind of didn't happen. Thanks to a lovely birthday boy and his 14 friends who had a great time at his birthday party yesterday. Thanks to the fact I went to bed at 6:30 p.m. last night and slept until 7:30 this morning. Thanks to a garden that needed to be tended to today.

All good reasons, don't you think?

Still, I got a few things done. There was a lot of washing of fabric. There was a lot of ironing of fabric. There was a lot of cutting of fabric. All of the washing, ironing, and cutting led to a very sore neck. Must have been hunching or something. I haven't had a sore neck before. Not so much fun.

So, I've packed it in for today. There is always tomorrow.

L xo

PS - I don't normally prewash my fabric. Now I know why. Too much work. A pain in the neck, if you ask me. (hee hee)

PPS - I cut the fabric in the picture a little while ago - they are for my Bee block in June. They aren't the ones that caused me the pain. I'll show you a picture of those this week.

A Quick Hello

2010-04-13T16:48:00.004-06:00

Just a quick hello. Things are too busy around here. So here is a list:

Yesterday, my little big man turned 8. We are having "birthweek" not "birthday" celebrations. It is so nice to be around someone who loves having a birthday. This is in complete contrast to the adults in the family, who would rather skip them.
I am working on a quilt. I haven't said a word about it. I am hoping to have something to share soon.
I am completely second guessing my Beatnik Bee blocks (the Charley Harper quilt). It may be too much. And I don't want to stress anyone out. I have plenty of other ideas. I'll make a decision by the end of the week.
I leave for New York in 9 days. I have stopped myself from buying fabric twice this week. I am going to save it all for Purl Soho.
We have had snow twice this week. It is very grey here. I could fall asleep. Grey weather does that to me.
There is a new ezine for quilters - FQ - it looks like it has potential, don't you think?

Okay, that's it. Let's talk sooner rather than later and for sure before I leave for the Big Apple.

L xo

OH! MY! GOSH!

2010-04-09T20:46:00.002-06:00

OH! MY! GOSH!

Originally uploaded by bebejack

I haven't told you about how I lost my mind recently and joined my fav local quilting and everything else wonderfully stitchy shop, Out of Hand, in starting an OMG quilt.

What is an OMG quilt? Well, let me tell you. It is a quilt of epic proportions for someone like me. The strips are 1". Yes, you read right. ONE INCH. And the quilt isn't a doll quilt. Nope. It is way bigger.

But I have to tell you, I am liking it. Crazy, isn't it. But then again, I doubt you come here looking for "sane", do you?

First of all, even though it is all 1" strips, I don't have to cut 1" strips because Deirdre got this Accucut thingy that does that. You turn a handle and presto, all cut.

Second, sometimes it is just nice to sew. I can just sit and sew strips and strips and strips. It is strangely meditative. The OMG quilt will require miles and miles of strips to be sewn. Who knows, by the end I could be so zen-like, you won't recognize me.

I think that all and all, as daunting as the quilt might have seemed at first, it is a really great project. And if I am lucky, it will be done by the time I am in the Old Folks Home (I hoping that isn't for another solid 45 years).

L xo

PS - To offset the teensy-ness of this quilt, I am making a quilt out of Amy Butler's Love collection that has huge, huge pinwheels. Hopefully, I'll have pictures for you by the end of the weekend.

PPS - Do you like the OMG embroidery? I might need to do that.

Like A Hole in the Head

2010-04-08T14:43:00.008-06:00

Really. I need something new to do like I need a hole in the head. But there is no way I can resist. Resistance is futile.

What am I not able to resist, you ask? Embroidery. Yep. I am a goner.

Have you seen some of the stuff out there?

Like this

[Embroidery and Photo by Polka and Bloom]

Or this ...

[Embroidery Pattern and Photo by Penguin and Fish]

And just like quilting, there is this whole sweet little community of embroidery people and three of them are kind enough to be doing tutorials RIGHT NOW (Follow the White Bunny (on Magpie Patterns blog), Early Bird Special, and Style Crush). Which completely fits with my schedule.

You really need to see this blog too ...

C'mon, seriously. So not fair. Look how pretty that is. If their banner is that sweet, can you imagine what kind of stuff they do. Lovely. Must learn how ...

(I confess that I already bought some stuff. Because there is a class list of materials. I even bought some patterns. I am keen. Oh so keen. )

L xo

PS - The whole "fits with my schedule" thing, is a lie. I can't/shouldn't fit anymore into my schedule BUT because I am somewhat obsessive/compulsive and when I want to learn something, I want to learn it NOW, it fits with my schedule. See?

PPS - I used to knit like crazy. Now I sew like crazy. The only thing about sewing is that, except for binding, it isn't super portable. Which means I have nothing to keep my hands busy when I am watching tv at night. Which leads to the "Cereal Problem". The problem is that I eat a bowl of cereal because my hands aren't busy and I lay there watching tv, convincing myself I am hungry. The Cereal Problem wouldn't be a problem if the cereal were, say, Special K. The problem is that it is Lucky Charms and Froot Loops and Frosted Flakes ... you get where I am going with this?

PPPS - Speaking of knitting, why am I the last to know about this?

Amy Butler Midwest Modern Knits (Rowan)

A Post by E and L ...

2010-04-05T22:04:00.001-06:00

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T12:00:00.001-06:00

Here's hopping (heehee) your Easter is absolutely wonderful!

L xo

An Open Letter to J. Crew

2010-04-03T21:41:00.000-06:00

Dearest J. Crew,

You know I love you. I have loved you for a long, long time. Like since Undergrad. And we know that was a long, long time ago. But, I have to be honest. Because true love needs to be honest, if nothing else.

So, in all honesty, I was really disappointed when I went into the J Crew store in Fashion Square Mall in Scottsdale this weekend. Not because of the staff or anything. They were lovely. But because there was nothing to buy. Not much anyway. Which is so not how it happens when I go to J Crew. Ask Mastercard, they know. Now, I know you were probably trying to do me a favour with there still being a recession and all, but I would have liked to buy a little something. You know what I am saying?

Do you know how much this hurts me? Because you are unwilling to open stores in my lovely country, I can only visit you every once and awhile. And to have nothing to buy? Heartbreaking.

But because love forgives, I am going to give you one more chance when I am in New York at the end of April. You have to understand one thing though, Purl, as in one of the greatest knitting and fabric stores EVER, is having their moving party the same weekend I am there. And they are moving into a very big, shiny new store. With lots and lots of tempting yarn and fabric. Just sayin.

[map by Lena Cowin from Purl Bee blog]

Obviously, there will be stiff competition where my fun money goes.

Let's hope May is a better month for you. Again, just sayin.

L xo

PS - One word. Romper. Seriously?

A Little Bit of Big News (for me) and a Big Thank You too

2010-04-02T20:22:00.007-06:00

So, one night a little while ago, I was in bed watching tv and surfing the net. I like to go to PS I Quilt not only because I love Rachel's blog, but because she has a great blog list on her blog. Up until a week ago, I couldn't figure out Blogger/Google reader so I would go to Rachel's blog and click on her blog roll (is that a bad thing? Not sure). Anyhow, Rachel's blog roll has a lot of my favourite blogs and a few that I visit once and awhile.

Anyhow, I digress. There I was clicking away and reading blog posts when I clicked on Moda Lissa's blog. Now why I hadn't read her blog more is beyond me because that is one great blog. So I click on the blog, and start reading her post. And her post is about how she made the 55 Rad Blogs list in the April/May edition of Quilter's Home magazine. Which makes sense because she has one great blog (as I have already mentioned).

I keep reading and she goes on to tell about a few of the blogs listed, some of which she already knew about and some that were new to her. (Do you see where I am going with this?). And there I was. Which was so crazy. There I was. Unbelievable. For a million reasons. Me. Really?

But I wasn't really going to believe it until I saw for myself. Which I did today. Right after hot yoga, I went to the bookstore and picked up a copy of the magazine and, low and behold, there I was. Which made me kinda do that pee dance that preschoolers do when they really have to go. Because this is just really lovely. And I was a little excited. Just a little.

So a big thank you to Quilter's Home magazine (it is a great magazine, if you ask me). It made my month, that's for sure. And to all the other bloggers, I am beyond humbled because you are all so freakin' awesome. Really, really.

L xo

PS -The pee dance caught the attention of a wee little old lady who was reading knitting magazines beside me. Seeing me dance around, she directed me to the washroom at the back of the store. She was obviously hard of hearing because when I told her that I was just excited about being in a magazine and didn't need to use the washroom, she told me not to hold it in a minute longer or I would be wearing a diaper when I was her age. NO LIE!

PPS - Okay, you have to read the magazine. Because a magazine that has a margarita recipe is pretty much awesome. And even though I am not one to eat hardboiled eggs, the recipe for curried eggs is going to rock E's world. In a quilting mag, who would of thought? Awesome.

PPPS - The best 3 things to come out of being in the magazine:

the email my parents wrote me after I told them about the article and they went to my blog and read my posts. It was some of the kindest words ever. Even at 39, making your parents proud is an awesome feeling. If I am even half of the parent that my parents have been to me, I think my children will be just fine;
my best friend, Catharine, telling me that she wasn't surprised I was in a magazine but that what always floors her is how I come about these things. Just reading a blog and I find mine. She calls it serendipity. I like that word; and
my husband telling me that, just like Catharine, he wasn't surprised at all, that I had made the list because he knows that there isn't anything I can't do, if I put my mind to it.

All 3 things made me think about how lucky I am. To have people that believe in me in the way that they do. That is, by far, the best thing about all of this.

I am very lucky.

I Could Just Eat You Up

2010-04-01T19:58:00.006-06:00

Without a doubt, this is my favourite sewing project ever. Would you believe that this absolutely fun project was conceived by my sweet 7 year old without help from anyone?

While we still have a way to go - we have plans for the rest of the ghosts, those little dot thingys that Pac Man eats and all the rest of it, I think this is a fantastic start. I just love it. And E has sewn this all by himself. He has his own sewing machine (which works better than mine, some of the time). How cute is that? I could just eat him up, he is so adorable.

What I love most about this little sewing project is the enthusiasm and sheer confidence my wonderful little boy brings to it all. To sew without rules or worry about making this fit or that work, sewing just for the fun and joy of it, is something to be seen. And the absolute love for whatever you make, however it turns out. How wonderful is that?

What a good lesson for all of us quilters, don't you think? To sew because it makes you happy to do so. And not to worry so much if all the points line up or your seams are straight ...

Am 100% behind that kind of quilting, let me tell you.

L xo

PS - Remember that big news I hinted about awhile back, well, I have confirmation about it. While it is big news to me, I don't think there is any news that would take precedence over showing you E's Pac Man sewing. So I'll tell you about it tomorrow.

Back

2010-04-01T11:07:00.008-06:00

We are back from our quick trip to Scottsdale. A good time was had by all.

What I didn't have time to do before I left was tell you the story about that little poster. And this is a nice story.

A little while back on C Jane's site, she blogged about a little poster she has in her son's room.

The poster was made by Persimmon and Pink, a sweet little etsy seller that makes a few different posters.

Well, never one to pass up a cute poster (if I could only force myself to Ikea to buy frames), I bought two of their sweet posters. The one above (of course). And this one ...

They are just the sweetest . And I am all about counting your blessings (and a "Hello, Good Looking, every once in awhile doesn't hurt either). So they are good reminders too!

Here's the thing though. The week after I got my prints, I got a second set. Now, I thought that the second set might have been my mistake (I tend to do stuff like that) but when I checked etsy, it looked like the store sent them to me again, by mistake.

So I emailed them and told them I had received 2 sets and asked that they send me a bill so I could pay for the second set (I think they would make sweet little "thinking of you" gifts, don't you?).

And I got an email back saying it was their mistake and I was to keep them, free of charge. Which is just so kind. And such a nice thing to do. Because I would have gladly paid for them (everyone makes mistakes and this was a good mistake to make, in my books).

And so now the 2 extra posters are on their way to some quilting friends ...

Nice little story, don't you think?

L xo

PS - I met the nicest man EVER at Barney's in Scottsdale. His name is Jose and he works at the Cle de Peau counter. If you ever go by, stop in and say Leanne says hello. Nicest man. Really.

PPS - My most wonderfulest mom has my beautiful children for the next few days so I am going to work on getting some sewing done. Fingers crossed.