OCCASIONAL THREADS

NEW BLOG!

2010-10-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

My DIL Suzie has given me the most wonderful gift - a new, updated blog! Beginning now, please follow me here:

http://www.ellenguerrant.com

See you there!

Blog Bark

2010-10-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

This was posted on Facebook friend and artist Tristan Robin Blakeman's status today. I just love it! Woof woof.

Check Tristan's page for more info: http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=732277006

What Waistline?

2010-10-20T22:58:00.000-07:00

What's a girl to do when faced with this - fresh from the oven? I don't think I've seen my waistline since the Nixon administration!

My DH just returned from a three-day hiking trip to his favorite spot - the Mt. Mitchell area of the Blue Ridge. He came home with beautiful fresh NC apples, Amish cheese and other delights. Since he loves to cook and insists on doing it all himself, dinner tonight was lovely - not a Wendy's salad or a deli wrap which I'd been having. We had a beautiful roast chicken, fresh green beans, brown rice and freshly baked apple pie. The pie is not at all on my eating plan, but he went to all that trouble and I certainly did not want to hurt his feelings. It was DIVINE! I'm really glad he's never gotten into baking bread or other treats. I have enough trouble staying "on plan" as it is! Yowza!

YUM!

2010-10-14T17:47:00.000-07:00

Grilled Scallops from

131 Main

I treated my husband to an early dinner at 131 Main last week for his birthday. We were delighted to learn all appetizers, including the grilled scallops shown above, are $5. between 5 and 7 p.m. I chose the grilled artichokes - DIVINE! My DH celebrated with a gorgeous prime rib; I stuck with the flounder and mash.

Caramel Cake with Caramel Filling

and Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

For dessert, I baked a caramel cake (DH's favorite) with caramel filling and caramel cream cheese frosting. The caramel filling, which cooked for nearly 3 hours until I said, "You're done!" was quite rich, prompting me to use just half. Our son Matthew suggested the cake would also be good with no caramel - just frosting.

A word to the wise: Use full fat cream cheese and full fat butter. I realized too late I'd used "light" butter which would not solidify. So, I added more powdered sugar and additional regular butter to make the icing firm enough to spread.

CARAMEL CAKE

Instead of directions from Kathryn Conrad's MyRecipes, I saved time by using a Betty Crocker butter moist yellow cake mix to which I added 1/4 C. brown sugar. Bake according to directions. Let cool..

Recipes for the icing and caramel filling are from Kathryn Conrad via a Google search.

CARAMEL FILLING

Combine 1 1/2 C. brown sugar, 1/2 C. evaporated milk and 1/4 C. butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Cook (without stirring) until a candy thermometer registers 238 degrees, soft ball stage. Transfer to a heat-resistant bowl and beat 3 minutes or until thickened and easy to spread. Quickly spread filling over cake layer on plate. Cover loosely with plastic wrap; chill 15 minutes or until set. Spread a thin layer of Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting over filling. Top with second layer. Frost cake. Chill 20 minutes or until frosting sets, then cover and chill 4 hours or overnight. Let stand 20 minutes at room temperature before serving.

CARAMEL CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

1/4 C.. light brown sugar

10 T. butter, divided

1/3 C. heavy whipping cream

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Dash of salt

1 3/4 C. powdered sugar

Melt brown sugar and 4 T. butter is saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to boil over medium heat, remove from heat. Whisk in cream; blend well. Transfer to a heat-resistant bowl. Cool at room temperature, stirring occasionally.

Place remaining 6 T. butter and cream cheese in a large bowl; beat with mixer set on medium-high speed until smooth. Beat in vanilla and salt. With mixer running, slowlyt pour in cooled brown sugar mixtgure; beat until smooth. Add powdered sugar (I sifted mine) gradually, beating well afer each addition until completely smooth. Chill slightly for a firmer texture, stirring occasionally.

As previously stated, spead frosting over caramel filling on first layer, add second layer. Frost sides and then top of cake. Chill.

Notes: This is a delicious cake, but its caramel filling takes forever to cook. If you could find a faster/easier substitute, it wouldn't be quite so labor intensive. In its original form, the process took five hours. And I didn't even make the pecan praline garnish!

ENJOY!

Back Soon

2010-10-09T22:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all my faithful readers for being so patient. The last couple of months have been crazy. Regular posts will resume next week.

Hope you're all enjoying fall! I can't get enough of it.

Peace!

Vacation

2010-09-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

Sunset - Sunset Beach NC

Our vacation this year was fabulous! Temperatures were perfect and skies clear with warm Atlantic waters of 80 degrees. Enjoy these few photos of my family.

My nephew Dr. Josh and DIL Suzie help Addison jump a wave.

Joshua, Addison, Olivia, baby Charlotte and Lisa

Olivia and Suzie get ready to boogie board.

My son Matthew and his wife Suzie at Lisa's luau.

My sister Sue and her husband John

Suzie, Matthew and 5-month old Charlotte, Josh and Lisa's baby.

The whole luau gang

Photo credit: http://mattandsuzie.com/

FIRE AND ICE - Opening Reception

2010-09-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

If you're in the Columbus OH area Saturday, please stop by Galleria Evangelia for the opening reception of the "Fire and Ice" exhibit.. My piece Hot Stuff is part of the show. Details below.

Fire & Ice Exhibit

2010-09-09T05:45:00.000-07:00

Fire & Ice
Opening reception Saturday, September 11, 2010
7-9PM
Show Runs September 11- October 3, 2010

Galleria Evangelia will present an exhibition of Art Glass and Art Quilts by Columbus’ exceptional artist in both mediums.

Quilts are presented by The Art Quilt Network, founded in 1986 by the internationally known quilt artist, Nancy Crow. From a small core of artists the group has grown to 60 highly creative members from America and Canada who meet twice a year in Columbus, Ohio (and occasionally in other cities) for a three day retreat. The purpose of these gatherings is to provide a non-competitive, supportive environment where new ideas, information and each artist’s most recent works are shared.

Many Art Quilt Network members have been the recipients of national, state and local art grants and awards. Many members have taught and exhibited throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Art Quilt artist include Linda Fowler, Marla Hattabaugh, Frauke Palmer, Gwen Surratt, Susan Voeghtly, Barbara Watler, Georgie Cline, Susan Nash. Pat Owoc.

Glass artist from acclaimed Glass Axis Studio include Brian Beecher, Lisa Horkin, Michael McNerny, Daniel Miller and Daniel Schreiber are among participants.

Galleria Evangelia
4269 North High Street
Clintonville, Ohio 43214
614-354-6557

My Work in Columbus OH

2010-08-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hello again, dear readers. After an absence of several weeks, I'm finally getting things almost back to normal.

My piece Hot Stuff will be in exhibited in Columbus OH. The "Fire and Ice" exhibit runs Sept. 11 to October 2 at Galleria Evangelia, 4269 N. High Street. 614.354.557. The show features art glass as well as textiles from Art Quilt Network members.

Hot Stuff

26 x 27"

Machine pieced of hand-dyed*, repurposed and commercial cottons. Hand quilted with embroidery floss.

*Border fabric hand-dyed by Debra Lunn and Michael Mrowka.

Artist's Statement: Red hot glowing heat, the brilliant oranges of burning. These are words which define FIRE to me. HOT STUFF, with its random movement, conveys the sporadic rampage of fire - the unpredictability of its course.

Tragedy Averted!

2010-08-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

I was awakened this morning by a tremndous noise and concussion which shook the house. "What was that?" I yelled. No response. A quick look from the bathroom window into the backyard showed nothing. I then heard rapid knocking on the front door just as my DH burst in through the back door. "Are you OK?" I heard our neighbor Liza ask. She'd heard the noise and rushed here from four houses away.

My DH and Numa, our grandpuppy, had been in the garden when Bill suddenly heard a loud pop/crack. He looked up just in time to see a 60', 24" diameter portion of the neighbor's giant oak tree heading straight for him - fast! He and Numa took off on a dead run, narrowly escaping the crush. The tree reached half-way into our garden, where my DH spends much time. He and a young couple had been standing just under the tree late yesterday, searching for their lost dog. If the limb had fallen then, all three might have been killed.

The limb - so big I literally thought it was a whole tree at first glance - fell across power lines, disconnecting electricity, phone and cable. It also knocked out a window and crashed through a corner of the garage next door as well as damaging my DH's car.

What happened this morning was yet another reminder of how precious each moment is. Had my husband not been fleet of foot, well...............I don't even want to go there. He said "It was literally like running for a bunker in Vietnam and hoping I'd make it." He's safe. Numa is safe. The other stuff is just that - stuff.

Duke Energy was here within 30 minutes to pull a new line. The cable is being repaired as I write. The phone? "We'll try to get someone out there by 6 p.m. FRIDAY!" FRIDAY????? How can they be that busy, when almost no one has land lines now? They've probably had to lay off their repair crews due to lack of business.

I'm posting from my DH's wireless laptop. My computer is DSL - so no internet for days unless I get a tv crew out here for an "Action 9" report from the back yard. I'll post photos after phone service is repaired.

We had a very close call this morning and know how very blessed we are. Be safe, everyone.

Update: All systems are up and running. The phone guy (Scott, who was wonderful) arrived after 5 and spent nearly two hours rigging a temporary fix. We now have both phone lines and DSL operating. We're not sure whether my DH's threat to call action 9 or have a press conference at corporate headquarters five blocks from here was what did the trick, but our file had been marked "highest priority." If you want action, you have to make some noise.

As the day has passed, I've felt more and more emotional about this morning's event. That tree came down in probably less than three seconds, and yet my DH and our grandpuppy escaped. I've just had an "adult beverage."

Happy Birthday!

2010-07-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

Our only child is 31 years old today. Thirty-one! Just before our son was born, my Mother told me, "Your lives will never be the same." How wise she was. There just aren't words to express how we feel about Matthew. I would never have believed it possible to love someone that much.

July 29, 1979

The first time ever I saw his face.

My DH Bill holds Matthew for the first time.

Matthew and his wife Suzie

outside Thai Bangkok

July 28, 2010

We had an early birthday celebration yesterday. It was grand!

Happy Birthday, Matthew. We love you to the moon and back!

Thrifting Mondays

2010-07-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

I've been told my computer is a dinosaur, even though it seems I just bought it. My DH has found it has almost no RAM. Consequently, it has begun to "act its age" - grinding slowly away. My son worked on it recently, pronouncing it a "major fail" and advising, "Mom, you need a Mac." The CD burner and scan functions have disappeared. Today, it refuses to read memory cards.

So what we're left with for Thrifting Mondays are photographs of things already uploaded.

Thrift shop quilt.

It's just big enough to cover a double mattress.

I bought this humble quilt just to use as a snuggleup. The fabrics are unusual - both cottons and flannels. I'm usually pretty good at dating fabrics, but came up empty on this one. New? 1980s? Curious minds want to know. What do you think?

Target of Love - a clue to newness?

Maybe it's made from scraps - old and new.

The white designs are actually machine-embroidered on the red fabric.

I'm leaning more towards "new" all the time now.

Should have rotated this picture for you. Sorry.

The quilt backing is also pieced.

Let me know what you think about this quilt's age. It has no label, no ID of any kind. But it just felt cozy, so came home with me.

Thrifting Mondays

2010-07-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

I've set daily goals for myself, attempting to get a lot of things out of the way before hand surgery later this summer. Yesterday's "assignment" wasn't completed until after midnight, delaying my Thrifting Mondays post to today.

I'm drawn to quirky items, especially if they're red and especially if they're kitchen or advertising related. I have no idea where this coin box was used, but the word HONOR pulled me in.

When I enter a thrift store, I always check the linen racks first. No longer easily found, vintage percale sheets are prized. Nothing feels as good and restful on a warm night as slipping between cool, cotton sheets. Chenille bedspreads, found for just $4.50 back in the day, are now scarce, as are vintage pillowcases.

Quilts keep popping up, but 90% are not great. I cannot remember the top, as I bought a "cutter" quilt simply for the backing fabric - whimsical circus animals and dancing marionettes - circa 1940.

A "cutter" quilt was bought just for its backing fabric. How fun!

Until next week, good thrifting!

Lovely Day

2010-07-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

Our son Matthew had an appointment in Charlotte so spent the day with us. It's always great to relax and visit and to laugh. Matthew has a great sense of humor and a quick wit. Always fun.

We enjoyed a great Vietnamese lunch at Lang Van, then relaxed at home, taking lots of pictures. Matthew got together tonight for dinner with an old college buddy. They planned to hear a friend play in a local club.

Father and son reunion.

My favorite from today.

Photo credit: Bill Guerrant

DH and moi.

Photo credit: Matthew Guerrant

Family - the most important thing ever. We are truly blessed.

Ice Box Pickles

2010-07-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

Pickles, 1 of 10

Several asked for the pickle recipe mentioned yesterday. I'm guessing this is very old, as the name is Ice Box Pickles, not refrigerator.

ICE BOX PICKLES

7 pounds (approximately) pickling size cucumbers w/skins on
3 large Vidalia onions
4 C. sugar
4 C. cider vinegar
1/4 C. uniodized salt
1 T. turmeric
1 1/2 T. mustard seed
1 1/2 T. celery seeds

Wash and slice cukes and onions in a food processor. Layer and pack down mixture in quart or pint canning jars. Heat remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Stir and be sure sugar is dissolved. Pour liquid over cukes/onions in jar, filling to the top. This step is easiest with a wide-mouth funnel. Cap jars.

Cool. Refrigerate and marinate for two weeks, inverting jars several times every few days to mix ingredients.

Pickles are good for six months in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

Note: Ten pounds of cukes made 10 quarts of pickles. We needed an additional 1/2 recipe of the brine in order to fill all the jars.

Pickle Time

2010-07-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

Love the little tendrils on the cucumber vines.

We love gardening. Well, let me rephrase that. I love reaping the benefits of our garden. My DH has been amending the soil here with organic materials since 1972. With the addition of compost, leaves, grass clippings and scraps such as egg shells, peelings and coffee gounds, he's turned the formerly hard red Carolina clay into wonderful, fertile, 97% organic soil. An entire year's worth of rich compost, as well as leaves are double-tilled into the earth each year. We have an agreement with a neighbor to pick up his bagged grass clippings for soil amendment. It makes it easy to gather the bags once his gardeners complete their work. We also pick up bags of grass put out for trash pickup. Many on our street use commercial lawn crews, making it easy for us to obtain other organic materials.

It's always a struggle for me to convince my DH that my perennial garden needs compost too. I may have to begin my own or start buying mushroom compost - the best! I don't work my area of soil as diligently as Bill. After all, I grew up on a farm in Illinois which has some of the richest, black dirt anywhere. One could dig it with a teaspoon - effortlessly. Trying to dig the hard clay is very labor intensive.

Our bounty is great, so we share veggies with neighbors. My DH, Bill, has a reputation for being the "garden authority" on our street. He's even conducted tours for the little kids and their parents, hoping to spur them on to having gardens themselves one day. Several have started, but have either not amended their soil enough, planted cool weather crops in the middle of summer, or tried to grow veggies in shade. They'll come around, I'm sure.

Ten pounds of sliced cucumbers and onions!

Today was pickle making day. Bill was given a recipe for refrigerator pickles which have become his favorite. I like them too, but not the fact that they take up so much refrigerator space. My favorites are the bread and butter pickles from Irma Rombauer's "The Joy of Cooking." Those pickles can be stored in the pantry.

Figs next door are almost ripe. Few people know, but the place has been unoccupied for over 15 years. The owners show up occasionally to do yard work and have given us total access to their figs. Tomatoes are coming in like gangbusters. And I'm determined to freeze more blueberries.

I'll be freezing peaches soon, a task postponed from a few days ago. My concentration these days is trying to find our diningroom table. I know it's in there somewhere! Tomorrow will be day three. Just ridiculous, my inability to throw things out! I see a giant yard sale in my future!

I think we'll have a tomato pie very soon. Check back tomorrow for the pickle recipe.

Sentimental Journey

2010-07-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my father's 97th birthday. He's been gone since 1983, but I still miss him every day. Here he's shown sitting in a car in front of his boyhood home in Cortland IL. My sisters and I stopped to get photos of the house when home for a family event. It was a beautiful, big old home on Pleasant Street - still standing until it was torn down to make room for airport expansion in DeKalb.

Standing in the picture are friend Harry Olson and my father's older brother Floyd on the extreme right. Note the knickers and caps. Too cool.

August 10, 1920

Thrifting Mondays

2010-07-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

Chinese Coins thrifted quilt top - my latest one!

One of my favorite thrift stores sells huge bags of fabrics for $3.50. The bags are clear, allowing a look at some of the contents before committing. Sometimes it is all 1970s polyester double knit, sometimes towels, sometimes old upholstery fabrics or scraps of doilies. On occasion I've really lucked out and found quilt tops.

My first were a very poorly stitched double wedding ring and an equally bad grandmother's fan - in the same bag! Since each had the same pale yellow fabric, I asumed they were madc by the same person. Shown below is the next bagged up charmer I found - a crazy quilt with some very nice sections.

Although the overall look of this crazy quilt is primitive, I loved its innocent quality. Note the bunnies nibbling a carrot in the middle block. The leaf next to them is bigger than they are.

My last find was the quilt shown at the top of the page. I'm guessing the fabrics in the Chinese Coins piece were from the 1990s. Can anyone give me a closer date?

This latest top is fairly square - not all wonky as the first quilts were. It will be a good practice piece for machine quilting.

What exciting finds have you made recently? Would love to hear about them. And don't forget to check Selena who gave me this great Thrifting Mondays idea. Her blog is one of my favorites. http://apronthriftgirl.typepad.com/

Sleep tight, babycakes. xoxox Ellen.

Sarah's Art Car

2010-07-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

I believe we always end up where we're supposed to be, that so-called coincidences happen for a reason. Yesterday, I met the most wonderful young woman when we both "just happened" to pull into the credit union at the same time. She was driving an older, brightly painted Dodge Caravan. As I got closer, I saw what I hadn't previously noticed. The background of the driver's side was covered in car art script. This is a person who obviously has a lot to say.

I told the driver and artist, Sarah, how much I liked her car. Soon she, her father Eddie and I were chatting as if we'd known each other forever. From her father I learned Sarah's Honors Art 4 project had been her car, on which she'd earned a grade of 100. Sarah will be attending college this fall in Ohio - also the home of acclaimed quilt artist Susan Shie. Susan is perhaps best known for the air pen writing which covers every square inch of background space on her quilts. Who knows - maybe Sarah and Susan will run into one another in Ohio. Wouldn't that be cool? susanshie.blogspot.com

I wish I'd gotten a close-up of Sarah's writing.

What looks like a person examining the roof of her car, is actually

sculpture at the credit union.

I was caught up in conversation and so quickly taking pictures, I was looking without seeing. It wasn't until I loaded the shots into my computer that I saw this was an anatomical painting of a heart with wings. With our family history, you know that's the first thing I would have asked about.

Sarah's garden of flowers.

Sarah's car is a feast for the eyes and brain, coming and going.

Sarah and Eddie - Thanks for taking so much time to talk with me yesterday. You both blessed my day! I'd love to hear back from you. Please contact me by email: ellen@ellenguerrant.com

More Stash Reduction Sale Pix

2010-07-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are a couple more photos from last night's sale. Above is an overview from one of my tables.

Nancy Cook's stash was very well organized into bags.

Here she refolds a gorgeous piece of wool twill.

Nancy Edmiston and I caught up with what's new in each other's lives.

Jane Godshall must have spent weeks measuring and organizing her stash. She has gotten such a head start on her future Etsy shop.

Sorry about the out of focus photo. That's what happens when I try to take a picture while laughing!

Stash Reduction Sale

2010-07-07T20:36:00.000-07:00

The stash reduction sale at my quilt guild tonight was fun, but attendance down during this holiday week. I did sell all my stretched canvases, several vintage linens and trims (always my best sellers), a very nice tabletop quilting frame, fabrics and some hand-dyed wool.

There were incredible deals - beautiful fabrics, antique quilts, books, vintage buttons, patterns. Members not there missed an awesome sale.

We were set up next to Nancy Cook, quilter extraordinaire. http://www.nancygcook.com/ Her DH went to school with my DH's brother, so the guys had a great time visiting.

Here are a couple of pix:

Nancy Osterberg's stash

Karen (Center) Ponischil's collection included a few familiar fabrics -

such as the chicken print Vicki Amon is holding. The coral hand-dyed wool in Vicki's hand came from my stash.

My DH was kind enough to help me on this very hot day. After he'd set up my tables and unloaded the car, I noticed him helping set up AV equipment. He also helped those without "man power" set up and tear down. Thanks, honey.

We don't keep ice cream in the house, but tonight was an exception. I picked up his favorite - buttered pecan - and mine (at least for tonight) - strawberry. Can you believe he resisted? Not me. I haven't had ice cream in forever, so savored every spoonful. YUM!

Thrifting Mondays - Week Four

2010-07-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

I loved this primitive quilt the moment I saw it. Problem was, it was in the hands of someone else. I was determined to have it, deciding it was a matter of will. From several aisles away, I just kept looking at her, quietly repeating, "Put it back. Put it back. Put it back." She was with a group and on the phone with another. "Put it back." My heart jumped as she put the quilt on its hanger, hung it up and walked out of the store. In seconds it was in my hands. Apparently, she (or her friend on the phone) had decided $8.00 was too much to pay for this country quilt.

Who doesn't love dogs?

The big appeal for me was the folk-art quality of the puppies.

They were hand appliqued and quilted - in a Baptist fan design.

Circa 1940

KEB MO' - America the Beautiful

2010-07-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

This great music by Keb Mo was posted to my FB book yesterday. It's a continuation of my thoughts on our country. Enjoy.

Happy 234th Birthday, USA!

2010-07-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

For many years, I've collected flags and flag images. Among them are an old postcard with words I love.

My country 'tis of thee,

Sweet land of liberty!

Of thee I sing.

This framed WWI era image is one of the first "antiques" I bought.

I remember paying $4.00 in a very old store on Brevard St. uptown.

Sadly, all that is now gone.

Several 48-star versions, once easily found at estate and yard sales, are in my collection. We also have the faded flag which hung at my husband's boyhood home the entire time he was in the military - night and day.

A very old paper flag once hung upside down in the window of our son's room. A sign of distress, the flag hung with an xray and a button which read, "Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first." Words to live by. Of this I am more than sure.

We fly the flag every day and always have, mostly in honor of those who serve.

Happy Birthday, Gracie!

2010-07-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my great niece - four years old today. Word is there's a pool party! What fun!

Grace's Mom is my niece and God-daughter, Kari, daughter of my baby sister Patty. Aren't they cute?

Photo credit: Josh Chenier

Great Side Trip

2010-06-29T16:30:00.001-07:00

This darling shop is at an entrance to the

Blue Ridge Parkway. Note sign to the right of the flag.

I'd never been to Fancy Gap VA, but its name always fascinated me. A billboard for "pottery" caught my eye as I buzzed down I-77 following my trip to Blacksburg. One exit later, I was in Fancy Gap. I couldn't find the shop I'd planned to see, but accidently came across something ever so much more exciting. It was purely fate; my intention was to use the shop's parking lot as a turnaround.

Welcoming rockers seem to say, "Come and sit a spell."

Welcome

Co-owner (with Dee Dee Price) Lynn Logan was rocking on the porch. As I got out to ask directions, I saw what a cool shop she had. It was full of not only locally thrown pottery, but all sorts of wonderful country and folk art whimsies, paintings, photography, bluegrass music CDs, jams, and monogrammed pillows and purses Lynn and Dee Dee make themselves.

I loved the shop! Lynn was gracious, giving me info on each potter whose wares she carried. Hammered dulcimer music played softly in the background as I browsed. I'll share photos of my purchases in the next post.

Lynn Logan

Co-owner

Inside Fancy Gap Designs

A sign pointing to greater Frog Spur can be seen

in front of a stone bridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Note the truck image, warning Hwy. 52 will be "down the mountain" as we say here,
all the way to Mt. Airy NC.

To read more and see a slide show of Fancy Gap Designs, click here: http://www.fancygaptourism.com/dining-and-shopping/shopping/16-fancy-gap-designs

Lynn suggested I take Hwy. 52 all the way to Mt. Airy, as the stretch has a plethora of stands selling veggies and fruits (especially cherries), antique shops and other treasures. Although each was enticing, I resisted the temptation to stop. The hour was late and I still had 100 miles to drive.

Thanks, Lynn, for a delightful afternoon. I plan to return to the area soon - this time with friends!

Meeting Didi

2010-06-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

A special perk of conferences is meeting other teachers. Didi Salvatierra and I learned we had much in common. We grew up less than 60 miles apart and attended the same college for a while.

Didi is a talented and award-winning quilt artist. I enjoyed seeing some of her beautiful work. I also noted how well her wardrobe coordinated with her quilts! Visit her website: http://www.didiquilts.com/ to learn more.

Didi Salvatierra

Stars on the Susquehanna

Didi combined contemporary fabrics by Michael James and Kaffe Fasset with vintage soft blue star blocks in "Stars on the Susquehanna." I love the resultant fresh look!

Her hand quilting is beautiful. Didi's clients include: The Mountain Mist company, Barbara Brakman, Mimi Dietrich, Carole A. Liebzeit and AQS quilt appraiser Mary W. Kerr.

Mats & Bowls & Coils, Oh My!

Didi shows samples for her class. Her fabulous bag features a Jean Wells design.

Other teachers for the Blue Ridge Quilt Festival this year were:

Featured artist Paula Golden http://www.paulagolden.com/

Susan Brittingham http://www.susanbrittingham.com/

Linda Fiedler and Kathy Sevebeck

Festival chair was the incredible Karin Tauber. We all had a great time!

Thrifting Mondays

2010-06-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

It's week two of Thrifting Mondays, inspired by Apron Thrift Girl (see right sidebar). Travel teaching has kept me busy, so I didn't get to the thrift stores this week. I was thrilled to find this Singer part - in its original box - some time ago. I'm always on the hunt for anything sewing related - be it fabrics, machines or buttons and thread.

The attachment has three cams.

Too cool.

Until I found this Singer featherweight zig zag attachment I wasn't aware it existed. Makes sense though. The buttonholer makes the most perfect buttonholes ever and employs a zig zag motion. I never use other machines for those, but that point is moot. I no longer make my own clothes so have no need for buttonholes.

It was a grand find, as I have a growing collection of featherweights. My first belonged to an aunt. It could have gone to any of my three sisters, but came to me because, at the time, I didn't have a good sewing machine. Reason enough. I'd never seen a featherweight and thought it was the cutest thing ever. There's a photo of me somewhere, taken the day before my son was born, making a Raggedy Andy doll on my Aunt Esther's machine.

I always wanted another and searched for years. Suddenly, they began to fall in my lap, along with the card tables. My BIG IDEA was to start a featherweight business with my DH. That still hasn't happened. But I am blessed to have three tables, five or six featherweights and many attachments. When the market is right, most will be sold.

If you're patient and persistent, almost everything can be found at a thrift store. I'd love to hear about your "finds." Happy hunting!

Wacky Nines Saturday Class

2010-06-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

Class Picture

Students in my Wacky Nines class last Saturday were so much fun. I've reposted our class picture as I unfortunately did not get photos of everyone's blocks. All were dynamite! Thanks, everyone. It was a joy having you in class.

Below are the few shots I did manage to capture:

Pam Perdue's colorful blocks coordinated well

with her sweater and cutting mat!

Pam's work.

Christina Thomas

Some of her blocks give the illusion of long hallways.

I loved Christina's use of the black and white fabric.

Betty Tyree used solids and large scale prints,

giving her blocks a sense of movement.

See - it IS possible to finish nine blocks in one session.

Aren't these fun?

Betty Elkins' expression says it all!

More Talented Students

2010-06-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

I love teaching my Gimme Shelter class. It's especially fun to watch those used to doing exacting work to liberate themselves and have fun. We all put the stresses of our lives away and just "let the fusing begin." Here are more of the delightful results.`

Claudine's blocks have the definitive feel of her homeland - Germany.

Claudine Pleimling

Christina Oosthoek's blocks had a starry, starry night background

Brenda Kinney came the furthest for the BRQF

to join her friend from Australia!

Worker Bees

MaryBeth Baker's innovative blocks.

She's on the right in the above photo.

Lois Hinkle

I later learned Lois had stunning wearables in the show.

Love the doggie with his bone.

Marilyn Spencer brought lots of cute whimsies

to add to her blocks.

Good buddies Suzette Hire and Ruth Bunt

ready to depart.

Look for more class photos tomorrow.

Gimme Shelter - My Friday Class at BRQF

2010-06-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

The views were awesome from the Blue Ridge Quilt Festival venue.

Check the huge windows!

Friday I taught "Gimme Shelter." I'm always amazed at how much of each student's personality ends up in their work. Each one was different from all the rest. Each one was wonderful. I was so lucky to be surrounded by talent and fun each day.

Here is some of their work:

"I'm the Man"

by Elaine Myers

Here are four more from her.

Fun and quirky, Elaine is a professional longarm quilter.

Contact: quirkyquilter@pemtel.net 540.626.6767

"Sugar Shack"

by Linda B. Smith

Note the cookies and candies.

Linda is a gifted artist. http://www.lindasartstudio.com/

Susan Donkers

Her cute blocks went so well with her outfit!

Check back tomorrow for more photos from "Gimme Shelter."

Blue Ridge Quilt Festival Class

2010-06-22T07:45:00.001-07:00

My fabulous students!
Photo by Betty Tyree

Betty E.

My Saturday class was "Wacky Nines." Students were encouraged to liberate themselves and not follow "quilt police" rules. Each one did an amazing job - combining colors and fabrics in innovative ways. The results were fun; the students even more so. Things got a little wild near the end of the day, when the gang composed a "fight song." I'm sure it was all due to chocolate withdrawal.

Each is holding one block from the many they made. There were some real stunners. I'll be posting student work tomorrow.

Dorothy - A Breath of Fresh Air!

2010-06-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

I'm on the left with the amazing Dorothy.

While teaching for the Blue Ridge Quilt Festival I had the great good fortune to stay with an incredible woman. Dorothy was so welcoming and caring and so much FUN! I liked her instantly. And she

REALLY knows how to drive in the mountains.

In her Subaru she drove me to the top of Clover Meadow, where her beef cattle graze. As we neared what seemed like the fast approaching edge of a cliff, I began laughing and was a little "white knuckled" as I asked her, "Am I Thelma or Louise?"

Dorothy introduced me to a new way (to me) of cooking/eating/thinking. I'm anxious to learn much more about this ancient diet. Although I consumed fewer calories than normal, I was totally satisfied and never hungry. I even lost 3 pounds over my four day stay! The book "Ayurvedic Cooking for Westerners" by Amadea Morningstar is highly recommended.

Dorothy adds minced garlic and ginger to a stir-fry of asparagus and spinach.

Coconut milk was added along with Eastern spices.

The dish was served over a mixture of rice and mashed mung beans.

Dessert was freshly picked blueberries. YUM!

What a glorious view!

I loved being in VA. Every minute was wonderful.

Thrifting Monday

2010-06-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

Indonesian Batik

I have a very small collection of wax batiks - all blues. This authentic Indonesian batik is a recent addition - spotted from halfway across a thrift store. It still bears its original paper label and of course has never been washed.

Finding it was pure luck. I'd gone to Mary Jo's (the famous fabric store in Gastonia NC (1-800-MARYJOS) and was searching for Hobby Lobby when I found the shop. How cool is that?

Safely Home

2010-06-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

Mist on the Blue Ridge

This photo was taken at dawn -my first morning in Newport VA.

I'm safely home from a glorious trip to the Blue Ridge Quilt Festival. So much to tell and show, so little time tonight. I'll be posting photos all week - so please visit again soon.

Father's Day

2010-06-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

My father as a young man.

After 28 years, I still miss my father.

YUM!!!!

2010-06-16T03:00:00.000-07:00

Divine!!!

Blueberries have been outstanding this year. My DH buys at least two pints. and a quart of strawberries. from the farmer's market at the bottom of our street at least twice a week. We're stocking up while the fruit is primo!

To freeze: Line an edged pan with waxed or parchment paper, place a single layer of washed and dried berries in pan, freeze for 2-3 hours. Pour into freezer bag, removing as much air from bag as possible. We love to eat these frozen - for a sweet but very healthy snack!

Thrifting Monday

2010-06-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

Bernina Feet - my best thrifting find ever!

I sold the walking foot on ebay.

I just learned one of my favorite bloggers, Selena Cate of Apron Thrift Girl posts a recent thrifting find each Monday. Since I just happened to have written about my latest item earlier today, I've decided to adopt/adapt this idea. Some things shared will be recent finds; others will be from my collections.

The lovely frock above was purchased because my DIL wamted it for Halloween. Turns out, the waist is probably sized for an 8-year old! Don't you just love it on the Best Buy NASCAR driver?

Recent Thrifting Find

2010-06-14T12:23:00.000-07:00

Thrifting Fun for $2.98!

This little Guatamalen bag was found amongst the children's accessories at my favorite thrift store. It bears the original tag from Ten Thousand Villages - a free trade zone store in Charlotte. My DIL found an authentic Coach bag for $14.99! She researched it online on her iphone before buying. Pretty swift. My niece, who works for Coach, verified Suzie had found the real thing!

Gardening Rewards

2010-06-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

I love perennials. I love the way they grow larger each year, eventually forming lovely masses of color. For my DH, it's veggies and herbs. Here are a few of the things currently blooming/bearing in our gardens.

Raspberry Bee Balm

Black and Blue Salvia

I don't know the name of this rose. It's very much like the yellow knock-out rose purchased this year.

Soon and very soon!

We've had fresh green beans several times. Divine!

Blue Ridge Quilt Festival

2010-06-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

Gimme Shelter Workshop

Friday, June 18, 10-5

Wacky Nines Workshop

Saturday, June 19

Next week I'll be teaching in Blacksburg VA for the Blue Ridge Quilt Festival. I'm so excited about being there. In addition to workshops, there will be a vendors mall, quilt show and other activities. For more information, click here: http://www.brqfestival.com/

Today finds me busy with all the big and little details of travel teaching. My lists include those for workshops, what to wear, food, directions, GPS settings, camera, cell phone, battery charging as well as counting patterns and hand-dyed fabrics. Hopefully, I shall leave no tern unstoned.

Be Still My Heart!

2010-06-09T03:00:00.000-07:00

This awesome old VW bus/truck with fold-down sides (OK - I don't know the proper name for this type of VW) was spotted on I-277 Monday. My DIL was about to pull along side so my son Matthew could get a better photo. To see it, go to his facebook page and scroll down to May 7.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/matthew.guerrant

Lacey Blossoms

2010-06-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

This lace cap hydrangea grows in the yard of a home for sale on our street. When we moved here many years ago, the house was occupied by its original owner. Although it has sold two or three times since then, it will always be "Mrs. Lake's house" to me.

Garden Gate

2010-06-07T18:28:00.000-07:00

A charming gate opens to this lovely garden.

Love the purple coneflowers.

My DIL Suzie and I took advantage of an open house yesterday. The house (for sale on our street) is beautiful, but we were enchanted by the little garden out back.

Constructed of bark-covered posts and fencing, the small garden has two raised beds divided by a path. A wonderful Boticelli bird bath greets those who enter.

Light on the garden was too harsh for good photos, but I shot these anyway.

NCQSI Best of Show

2010-06-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

A tiny portion of Release Your Light

by Leah Day

You must go to the website of Leah Day, a phenomenal young quiltmaker from Shelby NC. Her piece, "Release Your Light" is spectacular! It won first place in Studio Art Quilts, large, as well as Best Of Show at the NC Quilt Symposium. Congratulations, Leah!

To read about Leah and her creation process, click here: http://www.daystyledesigns.com/releaseyourlightquilt.htm

NCQSI

2010-06-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

Salt Water Taffy

2nd place - NC Quilt Symposium

1st place - Party on Duval Street - Detail Shot
by Kim Frisk

Charlotte is home to the NC Quilt Symposium, going on through Sunday at Johnson and Wales University. The campus is beautiful, just west of uptown. In addition to classes and lectures, you'll find a beautiful quilt show and a great array of vendors. http://www.charlottequiltsymposium.org/

My piece "Salt Water Taffy" won 2nd place in its category. First place went to the stunning "Party on Duval Street" by Kim Frisk. I'm only sharing a detail shot. The quilt was started in a Carol Taylor class. Carol is another whose work I really love. Congratulations, Kim!

Finished!

2010-06-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

I replaced the broken beads on my DIL Suzie's sundress with patchwork.

I've been working on this project for most of the last four weeks. Well, I've been thinking about how to work on this project for most of that time. My quilt work is abstract and usually does not require exact matching. So this was a challenge!

I tried several things before acknowledging I'd need a curved edge mirror-image template which matched the formerly beaded area. Once I drew the template, I marked it for paper foundation piecing. About half of the piecing was done on the foundation. I used a different method on each quarter-inch cream colored strip.

Once the patchwork was sewn, I resorted to dressmaking techniques. The inner neckline was sewn with wrong sides together and the seam allowances understitched. To finish the straps, I used wide bias tape, sewing it to the patchwork and straps which were then understitched and hand stitched to the back side. This is the same technique one would use in facing the armhole of a sleeveless blouse. Seam allowance for the center front of the patchwork were pressed under and then hand stitched in place.

The blue tie-dye like fabric was left over from the kids' wedding quilt. The chocolate linen was formerly one of Suzie's blouses. The mottled cream cotton was in my stash.

Current Challenge

2010-05-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

Beads, sewn to black netting, once adorned this dress.

Sans beads.

My DIL found and fell in love with this soft orange dress at a local thrift shop. It was decorated with tons of beads, some of which had come loose. She thought a patchwork of blue, cream and brown fabrics would be a great substitution.

The beads were fairly easy to remove, as they were sewn to a net base. Once I'd gotten them off, I noticed the triangles weren't uniform in size. My solution? Print a copy of the beads themselves and use it as a guideline.

Bead trim

That idea proved impractical. Next, I cut a paper pattern for the proposed patchwork and folded it into equal segments. Not a winner either. After fooling around with ideas for a while, I decided to do my own little Project Runway!

The dress was draped on a dress form (also found at the thrift store years ago). I was amazed at how much easier it was to design the patchwork on the actual dress. My prototype was finished tonight. After a bit of tweaking, I'll do the final stitching tomorrow.

This has been a challenge, as I don't usually work within certain parameters. But I enjoy figuring out how to make things work, so this has been fun.

Film at 11.

Saving a Quilt

2010-05-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Ray of Life" top - unquilted

Very visible pencil lines!

Marking Pencil Remover

When I finished the top of the large New York Beauty made for my son and daughter-in-law's wedding, I knew I could not quilt it myself. It was huge and I was having problems with trigger finger and carpal tunnel. So off to Pennsylvania it went. Of course I worried about my "baby" the whole time it was gone. When it came home, I was heartsick. The quilter had marked it with lead PENCIL! Everywhere!

I tried various erasers to no avail. I tried removing the marks with a dampened cloth. Nothing. I was frantic, to say the least. Since every fabric used in the quilt had been prewashed, I felt fairly safe in taking it to a laundromat. I put it in their largest drum washing machine (which does not agitate in the traditional manner) with a little bit of Orvus paste and a little bit of Synthrapol, said a little prayer, crossed my fingers and waited. Although most of the marks came out, the pencil remained in some areas - mostly on the lighter oranges.

Marking Pencil Remover from Quilter's Rule (thanks, Patty) worked very well in removing telltale pencil lines. But one block needed serious repair. It was an area where the deep indigo blue bled/crept into the orange from the seam allowance underneath.

What to do............what to do? I finally decided on paint, a tip learned from a friend years ago when hand-dyed teal silk bled all over a yellow fabric. The trick is to not just paint the small area where the bleed is, but to paint several areas so that it appears "planned."

I tightly taped off the area around where I needed to paint. Using a dry-brush technique and a very small amount of diluted acrylic paint, I dabbed the fabric lightly and let it dry. There was still a bit of shadow-thru from the indigo seam allowance. I used an orange Caran d'Ache neocolor watercolor crayon over the dried paint to correct this. That was the magic fix!

Most Favorite

2010-05-11T12:12:00.000-07:00

Cluster Roses and Baptisia

My most favorite rose in the McGill Rose Garden was the cluster-like plant shown above. I really like the way the 2" blossoms gradate from palest pink to lavendar. I'd love to have one near our blue baptisia.

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T17:23:00.000-07:00

I shot this lovely pink rose in the late afternoon light.

Mother's Day always includes a visit to McGill Rose Garden on North Davidson Street. Begun in 1952 by Mrs. McGill to beautify the area next to a railroad spur, the garden today is a serene sanctuary containing more than 1,000 roses.

McGill Rose Garden, 940 N. Davidson Street, Charlotte, 704.333.6497
Open Tuesday - Friday, 9-4, Saturday 11-3
http://mcgillrosegarden.org/

In the Garden

2010-05-04T16:40:00.000-07:00

Columbine

I don't remember where I bought this columbine, but I do remember being disappointed by its bloom. I'd expected the old-fashioned, more familiar flower. I call this is a "nodding" columbine, as it drops its head, making it difficult to photograph.

I'll be blogging again soon. Things are crazy here with lots of appointments and trying to get quilts ready for the NC Symposium show. And, our grandpuppy Numa tore her second ACL last evening and will need surgery.

Back soon. Thanks for being faithful, dear readers. xoxox

Facing a Quilt

2010-04-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

Salt Water Taffy

Approximately 19" Square

Back of quilt showing 2" facing.

Instead of a traditional binding, I used a facing on my latest work. Although my Mother was a 4-H leader and I've been sewing since I was 10, I did a Google search to view several methods. I'm not sure I'd use the one I chose next time. Here's why:

1. It was difficult to miter the facing AFTER it was stitched to the quilt. The quilt's bulkiness made marking a 45 degree angle awkward and inprecise.

2. I didn't like the look resulting from not being able to take the understitching (which keeps the facing from rolling to the front of the quilt) all the way to the corners.

I really like the look of the piece without the distraction of a binding and know I'll use this kind of finish again. But first, I'm going to do a bit of experimenting. Next time I'll either miter the facing before stitching it to the quilt OR use four separate strips of fabric for the facings. Either way, I'll hand-stitch the facing and not fuse it down.

Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Yum!

2010-04-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

NoDa restaurant in Charlotte

When first told about a restaurant named Cabo Fish Taco, I couldn't imagine such a combo. Fish and tacos? Oh my, was I wrong. We had lunch there Monday when Matthew was in town for an appointment. Grilled shrimp and pineapple in two soft flour tortillas with a zesty slaw and other delights. LOVED IT! My DH and I returned Thursday for my birthday, then went to Amelie's for dessert. http://www.cabofishtaco.com/

Cabo fish taco is in the arts district known as NoDa (North Davidson) between 35th and 36th Streets. Amelie's is closer to town, near 27th and North Davidson on the east side. The pastries are to die for. I indulged with a dark chocolate croissant; my DH chose raspberry pie. Both were outstanding, as was the coffee.

This was our first visit to Amelie's but definitely not our last. The charming French Bakery is open 24/7, has free wi fi and also serves soups and sandwiches and bakes fabulous breads. I'm not sure how we managed to miss it until now. http://www.ameliesfrenchbakery.com/

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!

2010-04-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Age 2

Today is my birthday. And I'm still here! I am so thankful.

Love and heartfelt thanks to all my wonderful friends and family. You've brought such joy and enrichment to my life.

A Beautiful Day

2010-04-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

Using a mirror, Matthew and Bill examine five bluebird eggs.

First two pictures are of Matthew and me, and Matthew relaxing on the deck.

We got to spend the whole day with our son Matthew who was in Charlotte for an appointment. It was wonderful to have time to visit, eat out (twice!) and just relax together. We can never spend enough time with our children. Today was very special to us.

Happy Birthday!

2010-04-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Boy, am I in trouble! My baby sister fussed at me for not getting anything on my blog for her birthday. I did post birthday greetings to her facebook page. I also sent a card and a gift.

So here, just a tad late, is a picture of Patty with her granddaughter Grace (who looks just like Patty and her daughter Kari did at that age). The cupcake dress Grace is wearing was created just for her by Patty, creative person extraordinaire! Looks like it was a hit!

Happy, happy belated birthday, Patty.

Help......Somebody?

2010-04-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

OK, so I know blogger has added a PAGE feature. I know because it says so when I try to edit my blog. I've also seen pages across the top of Melody Johnson's fabulous site. http://www.fibermania.blogspot.com/

I fooled around for quite some time today trying to figure out how to get a PAGE to appear under the header but before the blog posts. The word Home is already there, although I do not remember taking that action myself. When clicked, the word Home just leads to the home page of my blog. Very frustrating.

I want to add pages for classes/workshops, art for sale, etc. If anyone knows the magic of making this happen, please let me know.

Gracias muchly.

See You There

2010-04-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder: Tonight I'll be giving my lecture "Journey of a Quiltmaker" to the Charlotte Quilters' Guild. Hope to see some of you there.

Avondale Presbyterian Church, 2821 Park Road (at Lilac), Charlotte. 7 p.m.

Outsider Art

2010-03-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I happened upon two outsider art pieces signed by "Phosphorea". Obviously a free spirit, this artist used spray and spatter paint on the back of a paint store. I especially like the teal and red combo.

I'm drawn to (pun intended) graffiti, especially that of the late Jean-Michel Basquiat (December 22, 1960 – August 12, 1988) who signed his art SAMO. If you google his name you'll find a plethora of info. You can see the artist at work in this youtube video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXjR-y0WH-I

Cool Kicks

2010-03-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Love 'em!

Whenever the kids are in town, we have two favorite activities. First - eating really good food, usually Vietnamese (Lang Van) or Thai. Second - visiting our favorite thrift store. These stores are my favorite sources for unusual quilt fabrics.

I came very close to buying this cool shoe fabric silk skirt, as well as one made from tie-dyed velvet. Wonder if they're both still there?

Well Looky Here, Gilbert

2010-03-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

Bluebird Nest!

We've seen lots of bluebirds - well, 3 - flying around our back yard lately. My DH noticed they seem particularly fond of suet. The birds have been checking out both boxes, one which had two broods last year, and the new one shown above.

I checked them both yesterday and found this nest - already about 4" deep. The old box remains unoccupied for now.

May Apples

2010-03-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

May Apple

I love exploring our garden this time of year. Every day seems to bring new surprises - like the May apple blossom shown above.

A Small Part of My Collections

2010-03-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

I'll be giving my lecture, Journey of a Quiltmaker, April 7 for the Charlotte Quilters' Guild. This has given me the perfect opportunity to convert my presentations from 35 mm slides to power point. I decided to use photos of some of my vintage sewing items to perk up my chapter title pages. These were shot by my DH in today's perfect outdoor light.

The photos are clickable but high resolution. I'll resize them tomorrow.

Photo credit: Bill Guerrant

Spring!

2010-03-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Lenten Rose

On this first day of spring, I wish only good things for you. May all your plans be fulfilled, all your dreams come true. Happy spring!

Children's Notebooks

2010-03-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

I had fun making quilted notebook covers for my sister Sue's grandchildren. Here are the last four - just one for a little boy. The buttons are by LaMode, found by my sister at JoAnn's and by me at Hancock's.

Sue decided elastic cord would work well as a clasp. Because the kids are little (ages 3+), the cording was both stitched and glued in place.

Happy Birthday!

2010-03-13T16:08:00.000-08:00

Today marks another March birthday in the family. My younger sister Sue, shown below with one of her five grandchildren, inches ever closer to that senior citizen's discount! Happy birthday, Sue!

Enjoying Sunset Beach, NC

Mother's finished quilt - at home on the prairie.

I finished the quilt our Mother was working on (at the time of her death) for Sue. She finally received it last spring. After overcoming extreme sadness, I found working on Mother's quilt a great comfort and blessing.

After my father died, mother began working on her "quilt as you go" project so she'd have something to do while she traveled. Wanda Hanson (quilter extraordinaire and known to many of you) worked in a quilt shop near Mother's farm and helped her select the fabrics. Thanks to my baby sister Patty who found yards of the now vintage fabrics in CA last year. I could not have completed the borders without them!

Lost!

2010-03-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Notebook cover for Delaney

Arwen's Notebook Cover

I've been working on a commission for five quilted notebooks for children. I create the patchwork in the first step. When it came time to quilt them, I found the box for my walking foot was empty! Did you ever try to quilt without one? How could I have lost my Bernina even-feed foot? I had lucked upon a second one at the thrift store months ago and sold it on ebay. My little sister had advised, "You better hold on to that. You might need it some day." Snort. I should have listened to her.

March Birthdays

2010-03-11T20:02:00.000-08:00

Our family has lots of March birthdays. Today, one of my nieces is a year older. Happy Birthday, Jo!

Adding Text to Photos

2010-03-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

I'd complained recently about blogger not wanting to publish photos to which I'd added text. Well, photoshop professionals, i.e., my son and dil, tell me I have to do "something" with layers.

Oh my. I didn't realize I had created a layer. Guess what's in my future? REAL photoshop training!

Salt Water Taffy

2010-03-10T10:09:00.000-08:00

Salt Water Taffy

Copyright Ellen Guerrant

My current project - all from fabrics I hand-dyed. Now to decide if I'll face the edges or add a binding.

I added text to the photo in Photoshop, but then blogger would not load it. Textless photos only. I still don't know why. Any ideas?

I'm Still Here

2010-03-09T22:19:00.000-08:00

My son Matthew, his wonderful wife Suzie, and their dog Darby.

Today's 72 degrees reminded me of last July's week at the OBX for Matthew's 30th BD. Here he's getting ready to kayak to the Pamlico.

Photo Credits: Bill Guerrant

Thanks to all my loyal readers who keep returning, even though I've posted nothing new. A family member has been in the hospital and is currently undergoing tests. We're expecting nothing but a positive outcome!

I have completed the hand-embroidery on one piece and am in the process of making notebooks for an order. I'm also putting my first Power Point presentation together. Yes, little ole me! And walking, doing lots of walking. It helps me stay grounded and never hurts to burn more calories.

Hope everyone is being productive, creative and staying well.

Watch for photos soon!

Ellen. xoxox

Getting There

2010-02-15T22:09:00.000-08:00

Had my fifth cortisone shot today and nearly hit the ceiling - just after my doctor had told me I was the patient who never flinched! Not a good idea to jump when a needle is in your wrist. The three middle fingers on my left hand felt like they were stuck in a light socket when the injection began. My dr, RN and I burst out laughing when I realized "Oh sh-t - we're going to have to do this again aren't we?" Second try was fine. I'm allowed limited computer time now. YEAH!

I'm going to continue wearing splints at night but not more than four hours during the day. Instead, I'm to work on strengthening my hands by squeezing a ball or silly putty. My left thumb bends well now with no pain; the right one is better. At least the pea-sized nodule at the base of the tendon is gone.

I can't wait to get back to stitching. In the meantime, I'll share a couple of snow photos I took recently.

From top left:

Brick wall in our back yard.
Numa dog LOVES snow!
I love the texture of dogwood bark.
Carolina blue sky
These little birds are on a hose guard, but we've always used it for decoration only.

The roof of this birdhouse is a license plate from my home state - Illinois.

Heart Quilts Featured

2010-02-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

I was delighted to find two of my heart quilts today on Dawn Goldsmith's blog, Subversive Stitchers, Women Armed with Needles. Hold on My Heart....Throw Me a Lifeline and "We Fix Broken Hearts" were first shown last fall when I wrote a guest blog for Dawn.

Click on the link below and scroll down a bit. You'll see a couple more heart designs too.

subversivestitch.blogspot.com

I'm doing pretty well staying off the computer (per doctor's orders) but wanted to share this. Hope you're all safe and warm.

North Carolina Quilt Symposium

2010-02-05T11:10:00.000-08:00

The North Carolina Quilt Symposium will be held in Charlotte June 3-6. Registration is open now. Go to: http://www.charlottequiltersguild.org/ for complete details.

Orchid Spectacular

2010-02-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

I can't keyboard long enough for details, but there is a great exhibition this weekend at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, Belmont NC. Orchid quilts, created by talented members of Fiber Art Options, will be on display. The artists will be giving demos tomorrow from noon until four with walk-throughs on the hour.

For a sneak preview, go to Susan Brubaker Knapp's blog:

http://wwwbluemoonriver.blogspot.com/

Doctor's Orders

2010-02-01T21:35:00.000-08:00

Following my 4th cortisone shot this morning, my doctor said, "I want you to rest your hands for two weeks. That means no fine sewing, no needles, no keyboarding. We want to get rid of the trigger thumbs and carpal tunnel." I kinda sorta promised......starting tomorrow. I had to finish an order tonight.

I'm going to try my very best to follow my doctor's orders. So far her conservative treatments have really helped.

This fabric has never been washed. I found just over two yards of it on a recent outing.

Every once in a while I may sneak in a photo - like this great Indonesian batik found at my favorite thrift store. But for now I'll say "auf Wiedersehen."

Show Closed

2010-01-30T09:31:00.000-08:00

The Needlework and Quilting Arts Extravaganza is closed today. Heavy snow and ice have made the Statesville Civic Center parking lot inaccessible. Cindy and Patty, show sponsors and owners of The Quilter's Gallery, worked very, very hard to make this show possible. I am so sorry for them and for all the vendors. And I'm sorry for everyone who couldn't attend yesterday. It was a really great show. I will definitely participate again next year.

As the daughter of a farmer, I grew up with an appreciation of weather's impact. As the wife of a weather obsessed fellow with considerable training and experience in emergency preparadness, I remain very aware of potentially dangerous conditions. Needless to say, I'm very thankful I heeded the advice of my DH yesterday to get on the road quickly.

Heavy Snow

2010-01-29T21:07:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day of the show I'd been anticipating for months. Due to heavy snow, I will not be at the Quilting and Needle Art Extravaganza Saturday. My friend Debby and I packed up and headed out. Snow was coming down hard and wet; it was dark with low visibility. Traffic on the interstate crawled at 35 mph. If we had left 30 minutes later, I would not have made it home. Statesville already has more than 6" of snow - 14" expected. Safe journey to all vendors who stayed.

And to think it was 63 degrees in Charlotte yesterday.

Statesville Show

2010-01-28T20:34:00.000-08:00

My friend Debby helped me set up my booth this afternoon. Still a few things to add, but we're basically ready and excited! The vendors have incredible stuff. I'm eyeing the gorgeous hand-painted silk.

Try to get to the Quilting and Needle Art Extravaganza Friday. (see right side bar under Where I'll Be.) Weather might cause real problems Saturday. Snow/sleet/ice. We're watching the forecast closely.

Meet Me at the Show!

2010-01-27T17:30:00.000-08:00

Set-up for The Quilting and Needle Art Extravaganza is tomorrow! My car is packed with all kinds of goodies to pick and plunder. There will be lots of vintage wares too.

Please come by Friday or Saturday, 9-5, and say hello. My friend Debby and I will be in booth 34. Click the link for details and directions. http://www.quiltersgallery.net/

Let's make art!

I'll have hand-dyed fabrics similar to the ones used in this piece as well as one-of-a-kind specialty yardage.

Hand-Dyed

2010-01-25T20:09:00.000-08:00

Fat Quarters

Some of the hand-dyed fabrics I'll have in my booth, #34. Also available, one-of-a-kind multi-color hand-dyed pima cotton yardage.

See you at the Needlework and Quilting Art Extravaganza, Jan. 29 and 30, 9-5. Details on the Civic Center event in Statesville NC can be seen in the right side-bar of my blog.

Almost Finished!

2010-01-24T20:14:00.000-08:00

Hand-dyed fabrics by me.

Thanks to cortisone shots and splints, I've been able to get back to this quilt. I began quilting Salt Water Taffy long ago. It takes great discipline to stop after just a few hours each night. I'm determined to finish it one day.

Log Cabin

2010-01-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

There are 85 of these 19th century log cabin quilt blocks. Hand-pieced and quilted onto foundations, they are circa 1890-1910.

Frugal Patch

2010-01-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

"Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without."

The maker of this quilt block obviously took the saying to heart. This frugal little example was hidden away in my collection. I love its humbleness.

Vintage Quilt Blocks

2010-01-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I promised more info on the unearthed vintage blocks.

There is an overall view of some of the blocks in my old blue chair. I also found 85 log cabin blocks, circa 1880-1910, hand-quilted onto foundations. I know there are 19th century bow tie blocks somewhere, but..........

And check out the double wedding rings! Have not counted them, but there are quite a few. A newspaper pattern for the other parts of the block is also there.

More Goodies

2010-01-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

Needlepoint, needlepoint, needlepoint!

It took more than two hours, but I finally fought my way to the back of the studio closet. My oh my. I had no idea I'd collected and/or created so much needlepoint! Look for it in my booth - 34.

Someone started a Grandmother's Flower Garden quilt in 1937. Dozens of pieces cut, but only two completed blocks found so far.

I also unearthed many, many vintage quilt blocks. Deciding which of these to let go will be difficult. Here's a sneak peak. More tomorrow.

Happy Birthday!!!!!

2010-01-20T14:06:00.000-08:00

Matthew at age 6

Matthew and Bill

I have to take time out today to wish our son a very happy 17th New Heart Birthday!!!!

Laces

2010-01-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

I've just begun to go through tubs of lace! A few are shown here.

Redwork

2010-01-19T03:00:00.000-08:00

Some of the redwork I'll have in my booth. A limited amount of bluework will also be available.

Look for me in booth 34. See previous posts for details.

Colorful Crochet

2010-01-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

I'll have a variety of crocheted items - both funky and delicate. This is a bit of flower trim.

Hand Painted Silk Scarves

2010-01-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

Colors are soft raspberry and blue.

There will be a few painted scarves in my booth. See previous post.

Vintage Wares

2010-01-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

Vintage hanky with lovely blue trim.

Each day from now until the Quilting and Needle Art Extravaganza (see previous post) January 29 and 30, I'll be sharing items I plan to have in Booth 34. Click on the quilt image under Where I'll Be for details.

I Love Buttons

2010-01-15T21:25:00.000-08:00

I found this "button family" bag years ago. It is one of two in my collection.

I have many treasure filled cigar boxes and tins.

I am a lover of things old. Our house is old and its contents ancient. Always a collector, I'm beginning to realize the enormity of it all. Buttons, buttons, everywhere. I will be parting with some of them at the Quilting and Needlework Show, Civic Center, Statesville NC, Jan. 29 and 30. Sponsored by The Quilter's Gallery, the two day show will feature 38 vendors. http://www.quiltersgallery.net/

More of My Wares

2010-01-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

In addition to my creations shown Tuesday, I've made flannel pincushions trimmed with vintage rick rack and buttons.

These jewelry rolls with vintage ribbon could also serve as pincushions.

OUCH!

2010-01-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

I'm SO glad I don't have bunions. This one is a monster.

Can't be too careful. The surgeon personally marked and initialed the correct foot.

My DH had his second bunion surgery today. Pretty amazing. No pain, even with two pins in his toe and a bone chip removed. He's snuggled in on the livingroom sofa for the night. Not sure when he can tackle stairs.

All three of my sisters have/had terrible bunions as did our Mother. Fortunately, I did not inherit them.

Wool Sorbet

2010-01-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

Among other things planned for the show, I'll have hand-dyed (by me) fabrics, my quilt patterns, quilt photo notecards, vintage sewing things, fabrics and buttons, and whatever else might surface in the studio over the next 2 1/2 weeks.

It's been very cold here - much too cold to dye cottons outside. So I've resorted to dyeing small bits of wool in the microwave. Here is "The Sorbet Collection."

Below are detail shots. I used two types of wool and was surprised that one felted much more readily than the other. The effect can be seen primarily in the custom mixed greens and one of the blues.

I like the mottling effect achieved by stuffing the wool tightly into jars.

Quilting and Needleart Show Coming Up

2010-01-12T17:26:00.000-08:00

I'll be vending for the first time at the upcoming Quilting and Needleart Show Friday, Jan. 29 and Saturday, January 30 from 9-5. Sponsored by The Quilters' Gallery, the show will be held at the Civic Center in Statesville NC (north of Charlotte on I-77). Thirty-eight different vendors all in one place! What a great way to give a boost to your creativity during these cold days.

My readers will have a sneak peak of my wares, including vintage textiles and linens, over the next few days. For further information and directions, go to:

http://www.quiltersgallery.net/qneae2009.htm

I'll have one-of-a-kind quilted notebooks -

in an array of colors and styles.

This next one would be great for a dog lover!

From my extensive vintage fabric, trim and button collection I've been making pin-cushions, also one-of-a-kind. Here's a preview:

This is one of my favorites:

Epiphany

2010-01-08T14:03:00.000-08:00

Our tree went up very late. It is still green and very fragrant.

Epiphany is always my deadline for taking down our tree. We had a plan, but it's way too cold outside for a follow through. It takes a while to get a big tree lugged out our front door. Besides, my DH and I are still "discussing" whether we can set the tree ablaze in the back yard, ensuring bounty for twenty ten. Guess which one of us is going for it.

Oh My!

2009-12-30T21:45:00.000-08:00

I love getting comments on my blog. But I just discovered a very "adult content" one left by 'anonymous' causing me to remove my post and repost with a different title. Starting as soon as I find the correct command, my blog will no longer allow anonymous messages.

My apologies to any of my dear readers who happened to click on the shocking content.
Ellen. xoxox