soggy bottom flats quilting and stitching

2012-01-22T02:19:00.001-06:00

Some new pics of the paperdoll quilt for my bff, Helen, who reminded me she will be 84 very soon...

Just a little progress. Now, go sew something Elaine...lol!

2011-12-29T01:22:00.000-06:00

I haven't shown my paperdoll quilt that I am making for my BFF. A bit unprofessional? Ahhhh, yes. I am finding more and more difficult to applique each day. I have locking finger joints on my ring and middle fingers on both hands...you may have heard of "trigger finger" before. It really sucks to try and do most needlework, I have to stop and pop the finger out....take aspirin or tylenol for pain, do some more applique. Whining over, here are some pics...I know she will love it.

What are you working on?

The coolest Christmas gift ever!

2011-12-18T23:28:00.000-06:00

My friend, BeeBee, in Louisiana, sent me some really cute napkins~~

She found the tutorial on youtube.com sometime back. Very cute, very simple.

A green and red fabric circle.

It appears they are sewn right sides together, with a small slit, clipped, turned and pressed.

They are pressed nicely, but, if you notice, there are pressing marks in the fabric. And the circle is folded with @ 1/2" of the red showing.

Now, can you see the fold marks in the circle? I so love short and sweet.

I plan on a few more of these dinner napkins. Wouldn't this make a great last minute gift?

Pop on over to BeeBee's blog and check out her new "babies." One takes electricity and the other makes you smile~~

Merry Christmas, Elaine

As a sidenote, I know not who came up with this pattern, but since it was on youtube.com, I am going to assume it's public domain.

Black Friday sale in my shop

2011-11-23T14:17:00.001-06:00

20% off everything in my shop until this Friday until around midnight. Black Friday, wahoo!!

Just type in: 20off in the message box of the checkout. Lots of sellers on etsy are having similar sales, have fun looking around and finding lots of fun fabrics!

We are having the old Butterball today. I am working tomorrow and the earthfamily is coming in a few hours. I think I enjoy Thanksgiving dinner a wee bit much...turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy. Cranberry jelly (in the can...the hubs loves it), cranberry jello salad, lemon 7up salad, green salad with shrimp, stuffed celery, deviled eggs, candied yams...oh, almost forgot. I made 2 pumpkin pies, a first for me, yup, from scratch! We'll see how that turns out, lol. I'll try to remember to take pics before I jump into it.

I hear the oven going off...later, don't forget to head over to my shop for the sale~~

Where's Elaine at...?

2011-11-20T00:58:00.000-06:00

A sweet friend asked for inspiration about using some charm packs. I sent her this to check out. I also sent her:

The film strip quilt is one of my favorites to do with charms.http://soggybottomflats.blogspot.com/search?q=film+strip

And the really cool thing is you don't have to use white, you can use just about any color you want. I have a couple "go to" blogs I hit when I need inspiration. Try:

On Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 12:42 AM, Elaine Christian wrote:

The film strip quilt is one of my favorites to do with charms.http://soggybottomflats.blogspot.com/search?q=film+strip

And the really cool thing is you don't have to use white, you can use just about any color you want. I have a couple "go to" blogs I hit when I need inspiration. Try:

   http://nanalizzie.blogspot.com/ http://www.cluckclucksew.com/ she does great tutorials on her blog!
http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/   take time to really go thru her blog, she is awesome!
http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/   nothing to do with quilting, just a wonderful blog about living right. I want to be this woman, real bad.
http://www.filminthefridge.com/    what an inspiring quilter! This chick is very awesome
http://thehappyzombie.com/blog/   I could go on all day on Monica! real cool lady, awesome quilts. If only I could be half that talented!
http://www.psiquilt.com/   she is an awesome quilter too
http://www.quiltingbeeblocks.com/   don't go to this site unless your wine glass is full, the Brie is spread on the crispy chilled Asian pear, the kids are at summer       camp, the hubs is gone hunting...omg, be prepared to be amazed!
http://lucyquilting.blogspot.com/   Lucy is totally awesome. I would so love to have scones and tea with her. Be sure to take time to see her gems, the lady is an artist and does alot by hand.
http://quiltsalott.blogspot.com/   omg, another full glass wine kind of reading...Janet is soooo very talented, truly an artist I would love to watch work.
http://reproquiltlover.blogspot.com/   wow. But then I heart repro quilts
http://sentimentalstitches.net/ Gay and Clutch are very cool. She has a ton of freebie patterns on her site. I love to visit her blog frequently to see where that little cutie Clutch is lounging, lol!
http://theslightlymadquiltlady.blogspot.com/ ms.Lottie is in New Zealand, is an awesome quilter who raises her children in such a wonderful way. I love her!!
http://soggybottomflats.blogspot.com/ she must be in a coma, no action here!

When I need a, "oh heck yes, that is exactly what I need to jump start my mojo," this is where I go. I love all these ladies and truly wish I could gather them all together for a spot of tea, or a cuppa!

On Veteran's Day, we remember

2011-11-11T01:34:00.000-06:00

Thank you...Elaine

Christmas 2011, we can make a difference!

2011-11-09T18:01:00.000-06:00

I received this in an email from a good friend of mine from back east. It could apply to Canada, Australia or wherever else that is drowning in goods not from their own countries. As a small business owner, I have felt the crunch of the economy. So I will be using these principals for myself this year! **Remember sister Georgie, slip Canada in...oops, Canada is American too! And Lizzie, you slip Australia in where appropriate**

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into highgear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods --merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuineconcern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift-giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is! It's time to think outside the box, people.


Who says a gift needs to fit ina shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificatesfrom your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about somehealth improvement. Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American-owneddetail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or abook of gift certificates.


Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking downthe Benjamines on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful giftreceiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half-dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.


How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day. My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.


Plan your holiday outings at local, owner-operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theater? Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand foreign-made lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or delivery person and babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets and seeing our hard-earned wages go outside the country.   Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.


THIS is the new American Christmas tradition. Enjoy family get-togethers, church services, caroling, as in past Christmases but put more emphasis on the REASON FOR THE SEASON and less on material gifts.

Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussiongroups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section inyour city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations,and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other,and isn't that what Christmas is about, plus remember Jesus after all HE is the reason for the season !!!

Well, we did it...!

2011-11-07T22:47:00.000-06:00

but first, here is Helen's, my bff, Christmas quilt. It JUST came back from the quilters and doesn't have the binding on yet.

The next pic is a pic of a project we have tried, a Pioneer Braid. I am not crazy about it. But...we keep trying, lol.

Now, the coveted embroidery hoop. Helen tells me that she has had this for years. I love it to pieces. I have searched the internet to no avail, no such hoop. I love it though. Check it out...

It has little sections on it with a stretcher wire under the beads. It appears to be made to accept a single piece of fabric, like a kitchen towel or pillowcase.

Note to self:

Do not wear your mom jeans to Hooters!

And yes, we did go to lunch today...peel and eat shrimp...yummo. And I did get the T-shirt to remember our lunch date! Our waitress was so darn cute. She was awesome. Next time...come along with us!

Here's my reason

2011-10-31T22:56:00.000-05:00

I haven't blogged in a week. My computer crashed so I had to buy another. The hubs hooked all the cords up to the back and moi got us online. I am now using picassa, thank you my fab friend downunder, Lizzy. No pics today, having an "interesting time" downloading in a new format, yadda, yadda. But I have to tell you why I may need bail money next Monday!

Every Monday I go to her house where we quilt, lie to each other and just generally be girlfriends. We do have a wee space in our ages, but we fellowship just fine. She "gets" me and I "get" her. My bff is 83, the one I am making the paperdoll quilt for.

We were sitting in her expansive sewing room today, sewing along, when she said she needed to go into the next room and write something down for her grocery list. She waits for one of her daughters to come every Wednesday, most months anyway, to take her to Wallyworld to shop. She did make the comment that it pretty well sucks to be her and depend on her daughter to take her shopping.

This is the conversation:

Me: so you only go shopping every Wednesday?
Bff: yes, unless I want to brave the roads to drive to Walmart on my own.
Me: how about if I come over next Monday am and take you into Dallas, we go to Krogers, we do a bit of shopping then go to this killer Chinese buffet. Heck, if we aren't careful, we might hit Hooters too!
Bff: oh, Hooters, I heard about that place.
Me: yep, the girls have big hooters but they say the chicken wings are yummo.
Bff: well, I think I need to see that.
Me: cool.

So here's the deal. When is the last time you took your grandmother to Hooters? And yes, I am taking my camera and buying her THE t-shirt! Could be fun...wanna go with us?

The center block

2011-10-23T22:22:00.000-05:00

I am nearly finished with the embroidery on the center block, just the last word. The 2 dolls are going to flank the words. I can hardly wait to get them down! Wait until you see the fabric I chose for the "girls."

I found this spring type aluminum hoop for this quilt, no screws to tighten. I like it much better than the old one. I am going to get a pic of Helen's awesome hoop, hopefully this week.

Off to bed, work comes early...have a great week~~Elaine

I want you to meet Bee in my Bonnet

2011-10-22T16:47:00.000-05:00

I actually follow Lori Holt's blog, just a wee bit of a stalker, eh? If you haven't seen her blog, drop everything and head on over to see it. I would love to be one of her friends and go to her house.......I would encourage you to go back on her blog, be prepared to stay a long time so you can see everything she has in her house, including her to die for sewing room. Check out her unique finds, the little gifts she makes, and before you know it, you'll be at Lucy's house!

She makes the most amazing quilts and sells her patterns on different web stores and also at some of her local quilt shops. I would highly recommend this quilt shop...no excessive shipping, packaging was very nice and the speed was super! There are more of the story quilts, family reunion, count your blessings, gardening, etc. Have fun, back to my embroidery on the doll section...

In between living....I love to quilt

2011-10-21T11:17:00.000-05:00

Have you guys seen this quilt pattern? It's from Lori Holt at Bee in my Bonnet.

My bff, Helen, had a nice collection of paper dolls from when she was a little girl...Gloria Swanson, Shirley Temple, and many more girls of that bygone era. Her daughters are trying to help her downsize and one of them sold her dolls. I don't think she realized how she would grieve for them, but she is. She mentions them often.

She doesn't realize it, but I am making this quilt for her. But it is now Helen and Elaine, go figure! I have started in the center...

I found the most awesome gray for the scissor blades....love it.

I get to tackle the dolls next, wish me luck.

Have a great weekend...

Last of the pics

2011-09-27T11:05:00.000-05:00

Last 2 pics of fabrics you might want to see. Hope this helps Jen,

Elaine

More for Jen

2011-09-27T10:48:00.000-05:00

One more pic coming in a few minutes.

Does etsy give you fits?

2011-09-27T10:35:00.000-05:00

I have tried to upload some pics for Jen....she needs some fun fat quarters to complete a project she is working on, but I am having difficulty sending the pics thru etsy. So, hello blogger, help me out!

So here you go Jen, more pics in a few minutes, k?

We found some fabric!

2011-09-05T21:50:00.000-05:00

Today was quilting with my bff day. I started talking about finding the "right" fabrics for our quilts when she said, "I don't think the ladies back then (1843) went to quilt shops to buy their fabrics. Didn't they 'make do'?" Ahhh, yes they did! I can be so dense sometimes. So off to her sewing room to find her browns, tans and off whites. Then I came home and found mine. Isn't it interesting how you take pics, look at them and then find the 'wrong' colors and shades? I see several that just have to go.

Hmm, a bit better. But I think there are 2 more to go, to pumpkiny, don't you think? We did decide to try to stay with the chocolates, light brown and unbleached muslins.

So, what do you think so far? My bff is happy and I think I am too! Now back to packing. It's time to wing off to my sisters' house in a few days. I fully intend to eat my weight in shrimp and Alaskan salmon...and I do weigh alot!

I'm still working on that blogger issue. Wish me luck on that one!

Can you help me please?

2011-09-05T00:16:00.000-05:00

I have 2 different blogs with 2 different emails. I was wondering if there is a way to make both blogs go thru just one email address? I went to blogger help and got a headache trying to figure it out. Thank you for your assist, I appreciate it~~Elaine

Auditioning fabrics

2011-08-29T20:14:00.000-05:00

Off to Helen's house today, talking about fabric for our quilt. We are still looking for the

dark fabric in the star blocks. We are trying to stay as "true" to the original as possible, but it's very difficult. I'm hoping to find a chocolate with lines of half moons. I know it's really hard to see this particular fabric, but look closer. Have you seen any reproduction fabric like this?

Now the fencing around the perimeter is appliqued down and appears to me to be a solid chocolate, we have that, whoppee! My bff is going to use her machine to piece and I am not.

I am going to hand piece mine. Now, to draft it out this week...
I am very anxious to get started.

As a side note. I have had a few emails and comments about this quilt. So let me explain a bit. My bff is 83 years old and lives alone. She is tired and has made quilts all her life for her family. She wants to make a quilt just for her. I guess it's a way for her to memorialize her family, to remember them. I want to join her in making one because one day I'm going to be tired too. My hands are beginning to show signs of arthritis and I love to hand piece and hand quilt and want to do this before my ability to move my fingers is lost. I want to make this quilt because it's a way for me to remember my family and for my kids to know who everyone was.

If you know who sells the chocolate fabric that we need, please let me know. Oh, and Helen says hi.

Historical quilts

2011-08-28T01:02:00.000-05:00

My bff is the sweetest lady in the world. I go to her home every Monday and sew, cut and quilt my day with her. Sometimes we open a box she has in a closet and carefully unfold the contents, usually something that makes her smile. Her mother was an experienced needlewoman in crocheting, embroidery, cross stitch....actually everything, except quilting. My bff is a quilter and has made tons of them. She lives alone, lost her spouse years ago, along with her parents. She naps in the afternoon after lunch and watches wrestling on TV 4 nights a week.

I brought an awesome book to her house to show her THE GRAVEYARD QUILT. It is possibly the most inventive quilt a woman has done to work thru the grief of losing her children. I showed her the book and the quilt. She must have been thinking of this quilt alot the past few weeks. She wants to make one. So do I. I don't find the quilt macabre. I want to make one. I have tried to do some measuring and guesstimating and think I have it down. Next Monday, we are going to go thru our stashes and see what we have. I want to use tea dyed muslin between blocks, borders and for the center.

In 1836, a woman named Elizabeth Roseberry Mitchell began stitching a quilt in memory of her two-year old son, John, who had just died. In 1843, she added another son who had died at the age of 19. What’s so unusual about her quilt is that it features a graveyard in the center; on the top is where the graveyard is located in Monroe County, Ohio.

The outer border has appliqued fencing, and also up the center, from the bottom. Now, if you look closely, you'll see embroidered vines, leaves and flowers, twined thru the fencing. The original quilt has walnut hull dyed little coffins. We don't have those here, just pecans.

This is going to be fun, me and the bff. I want to get alot of it cut and prepped and ready for my trip to see sister. She came to see me last year, now it's my turn to go see her!

If you want more info on this historical beauty, visit:

http://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Roseberry-Mitchells-Graveyard-Quilt/dp/0962939927 or:

http://www.kyhistory.com:2010/cdm4/item_viewer.php?CISOROOT=/Artifacts&CISOPTR=35&CISOBOX=1&REC=3

So, what do you think?

How are ya?

2011-08-13T01:42:00.000-05:00

I started with good intentions to blog..you KNOW what I'm talking about, don't you? Be more in touch, stop being selectively mute. The earthfamily came over for dinner about 6 weeks ago, and while cutting up a chicken...I attempted to severe the index finger of my left hand. Since it was chicken and the knife was not clean...off to the doctor. A round of antibiotics, a fabulous lecture from the doctor about needing to suture the wound in a timely manner, and the hoped for Tetanous shot, I healed almost up.

This is what happened when I pulled back, firmly embedded, in the burros grasp. My right arm had been resting atop a chain link fence.

Again, the earthfamily, big daddy and I met up at an awesome Mexican restaurant for dinner. If you tried the Shrimp Fajitas there, you would drive 75 miles round trip too! I brought the usual tortillas home for the horses and Jenny the burro. I wasn't paying enough attention and Jenny nearly severed my index finger from my right hand. Not her fault, she just wanted to pluck that tortilla from my hand before the paint horse did! OMG, it hurt! I am still living with 2 index fingers, kinda sore and a wee bit of swelling, but I'll make it.

Do you see a pattern here? Either the earthfamily is dangerous or I am a danger to myself.

What are you ladies working on? I'm so ready to get back to sewing. Any new patterns or fabric lines you might want to share?

I need to get busy, but first sleep. Take care, Elaine

Christmas in July free shipping

2011-07-17T00:34:00.000-05:00

Free shipping...everywhere, until the end of July! If I can fit it in a flat rate envelope, I'll pick up the shipping...apply:
formememe
at the checkout, and you can get free shipping just for you! I can get 6 yards of fabric in a flat rate envelope, or 6 charm packs or 2 layer cakes...if you find items you want, please, please convo me first and I can make a custom listing for you. Please limit 1 free shipping offer per person. Go to: soggybottomflats

Thank you...Elaine

~~Thanks for shopping the etsy way~~

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T11:13:00.000-05:00

Have you ever noticed that when you hand a baby a chunk of watermelon....they appear to have an innate ability to become one with the fruit? Nothing says the 4th of July to me, like a baby eating watermelon.

Do you ever have leftover charm packs, or bits of them, and don't know what to do with them? A disappearing 4 patch, started with 5" squares, finished at 48"x64". A nice lap quilt, quilted on straight lines and bound with 2 1/2" wide double fold binding....leftover from other projects, pieced together. A nice quick quilt.

Happy holidays...Elaine

Spring babies and quilts

2011-06-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

So, the deal is, a sweet young lady that I know, started her new job the same day I did, just happens to be 10 weeks from delivering a wee one. I found the perfect gift for her, in my stack of quilt tops I had made last year. Remember the film strip quilt faze?

New mommy Heather, loved it! It was so much fun, quick quilting on my speedy little Janome. Now, off to finish uploading my new Flurry pre-cuts in my Etsy store. Later~~~

Free shipping until 31 May

2011-05-20T10:25:00.000-05:00

I think the part about getting old, that hurts the most, are my hand joints. It's kind of weird, I can still type, tie my shoes...but it's getting harder to quilt by hand or embroider. I'm struggling through some embroidery for a friend. It's a matter of principle...to finish it. I'm getting there, it's just not the fastest I wish I could go, but it'll do for now.

My chooks are growing, getting feathers, learning from the mama chooks. I might have to slip a few "big girl" eggs under the little hens the next time they decide to nest, lol! Almost makes me wish I had a few duck eggs.

The free shipping is going well, now is the time to splurge. I saved a young lady in Australia $40+ in shipping. Just type in:

freemayship

in the coupon code box during your checkout. I do have 27 different Sherbet Pips fabrics available. Some of the bolts are becoming thin so don't procrastinate to long. Thank you for supporting my shop.

Now, back to my project...Elaine

Free shipping to the end of the month...includes International

2011-05-11T11:13:00.000-05:00

Today is my daughters birthday....where has the last 37 years gone? I will be punished if I reveal her age, I'll try to be gentle. So, anyhoo, in her honor I have decided to not only extend free shipping for the rest of the month...but to also extend it to include International sales too.

Yep, free International shipping!! Go figure, now, before I realize what I have done, lol, go check out my shop. Just be sure to enter the coupon code in the check out section of my shop....type in:

freemayship

have fun sewing.....Elaine

Free shipping continues, and...

2011-05-09T15:33:00.001-05:00

I received an inquiry about International shipping and realized this might be a problem. I would love to offer 50% shipping for International. If the shipping is 12 bucks, I pay 6, you pay 6. If you are from Australia, for example, please DO NOT USE COUPON. When you make your purchase, check out, send me an email and I will refund 1/2 of your shipping. Fair enough ladies?

I also got this in an email, had to share:

Shampoo Warning:
I figured out why I have been gaining weight. The shampoo I use in the shower that runs down my body says…“for more volume & extra body".
So now, I am going to switch to Dawn dish washing liquid.
It says..."dissolves fat that is otherwise difficult to remove".
......So glad I figured this all out!

Happy day...

Free shipping for the week

2011-05-09T10:26:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a memorable Mothers Day, I sure did. Earthmama made shrimp fettuccine for me. My son has been dabbling in making his own beer and we shared a glass of a rather stout home made beer. Then I shared my dinner with my grand daughter rounding out a perfect day....then came home forgetting my gorgeous tulips they had bought for me for Mothers Day!

Sometimes you just have to sleep where you can.

I haven't done any sewing lately, some handwork is all. It went from winter to spring and now it's summer here. We had to turn the ac on last night. I hope we get more rain but please Lord, don't let the Mississippi river flood Memphis!

Our last batch of bantam chicks turned out to be 5 hens and a rather colorful rooster. I think some critter ate 2 of the hens, so now we are down to 3 hens, 1 rooster. I never have the camera when I see them running around. They aren't too social.

Our little gray bantam chicken hatched 9 babies....3 of them resemble chipmunks and 6 black ones. They arrived here on Good Friday, but are all in the "nursery" with mom. I still haven't figured out how she can get them all under her!

I received several cases from Moda, o m goodness, and need to finish putting them in my etsy shop. If you read my blog...you can have free shipping until next Sunday! Just go to my etsy shop, make your selection and the type in:
freemayship

in the coupon code box in the check out area! Be sure to tell your friends. I just received the full line of Sherbet Pips by Aneela Hoey, new charm packs of Hoopla, Modern Workshop. I also received jelly rolls, layer cakes and charms for the Wee Folks line, by Ingrid. What is it about those gnomes? Love em.

Don't forget the free shipping for the rest of the week!

Later, Elaine

New French General in!

2011-01-29T13:17:00.000-06:00

I have a limited number of Pom Pom de Paris, by French General, for Moda, pre-cuts, in my shop. Layer4 cakes, jelly rolls and charm packs. Thanks for looking, Elaine

The new family

2011-01-28T13:12:00.000-06:00

In true farmer fashion, a wee bit of old screen, hay bale twine and just a tad bit of assist from Mr.Sweetums, we now have a cat/skunk/other critters proof, chicklet run! We are now up to 6 babies with 7 eggs left. Thanks for checking them out...now, off to work for me!!

Yippeee...spring is coming!

2011-01-28T01:34:00.000-06:00

Check out my front porch...do you see it?

There, in the dormant flower pot....my little black bantam hen. She had 13 eggs in it, and is determined to be the mom of the year.

I'll share another pic tomorrow. I wasn't sure what to do with her, so I grabbed a dog carrier, turned labor room, and put her, pot and all, in the cage. Of course there is hay laid down, a water jug and plenty of food for the chooklets. I checked on her later in the day and found a wee baby wandering around, below the pot. I lifted her out and put her in the cage and moved each egg in, where she promptly moved them beneath her.

So far, we have 4 babies! I think my grandmother would be proud.
***Disclaimer: the porcelain bedpan seen under the porch swing is an actual water bath for the birds in the summer...some nurses have sick senses of humor***

Now I'm irritated

2011-01-22T17:51:00.000-06:00

Ya'll know I have an etsy shop, I'm sure I bore you to tears with that. Anyhoo, I have been selling out of it, online, for a while now. I have met some really nice ladies, all over the world. I have enjoyed it alot. What irritates me is my post office....ah hell, the whole postal system irritates me today. And I'll be sharing that little tidbit with you now.

You ever check out the fabric sales/shops on etsy, ebay or otherwise? You ever look at the postal prices? Quite a few will even admit, or better yet, proclaim to fit up to 8 yards in a flat rate envelope. Yeah, me too. Remember the postal commercial....IF IT FITS, IT SHIPS!

Well, I have received alot of those envelopes myself....and love it! I can't believe I can receive that much in an envelope! My little neighboring town has a post office and I would much rather go there. Nicer people, for real.

When I sell online, I found I can also print my postage online, if it's flat rate. What a bonus....no more having the little man run to the post office everyday. Just pop that envelope in an egg basket and hang it off the mail box and the carrier picks it up.....right?

I sold 4 yards of fabric to a nice lady in the US and popped it into a flat rate and told the hubs to pop it out for me. He did. 2 days later, I receive the same envelope back, all beat to hell, with the paper label written on $4.40 owed. We looked at it a few hours and the hubs decided that would be the exact cost of a medium flat rate box, added to my already paid for label. Now, you might ask yourself, where is my happy face? Gone. So, like any sane person, I opened the package and popped it into another envelope and mailed it ANYWHERE BUT MY POST OFFICE WHERE THE CLERKS ARE CONSTIPATED!!!! Then I went back to Paypal, where I am now out the $4.75 postage, and applied for a refund on the computer generated stamp.

This is where the good part starts: It will take up to 15 days for a postal refund. Wow. So 2 days later, I get an email from Paypal....guess what? It appears that I mailed a priority flat rate to that address and they will not refund my postage. You see, when you computer generate a stamp and you're cheap like me, you print it out on a regular piece of paper, cut it down and tape it on the package. This stamp has a barcode....so did the NEW stamp the hubs paid for. Hmm, I guess the post office machines don't know how to read bar codes.

So, my question is: does the post office REALLY know what they are doing?

Spring is coming, wahoo!

2011-01-17T20:28:00.002-06:00

Hey ya'll...what is new with you? Since I went back to work, it's been busy, busy! Mon thru Fri, from before dawn to after dusk, driving back and forthj (35 miles one way), fixing dinner when I get in, because I do enjoy cooking and my husband doesn't. Laundry on the weekends, cleaning house...you know, the things we all do. I guess since I haven't worked for several months, it's kicking my behind a bunch, lol!

15.5" long x 13" wide x 5" tall.

In the meantime, I have decided to drag out my UFO's and either DO THEM or lose them. 1) is a needlepoint of a rose bouquet on a soft pink background. I did the background, the roses were already done, and had intended it for an old lady footstool because I think they are cool and I have always wanted one. So I did it! Yep, just jumped in and did it. I am so glad I did, I love it! Very first-timer-on-a-footstool but I will always treasure it. Did I mention that I had actually done the needlepoint @ 16 years ago! I just needed a wee bit of a push to tack it down!

Now, what's next for my list....we shall see tomorrow. Have a great night, Elaine

The Goatherders Christmas

2010-12-23T14:16:00.000-06:00

Hola fellow goat herders! I have been absent, I know. I went out to clean the goat shelter, and then off to the chook shed....and before you know it, I was lost about what to do! I know you may have had similar old timers moments....haven't you?

My camera is at my sons house, so no pics yet, but I assure you that my mail today is worthy of so much more then JUST a pic. Janet sent me the most awesome quilt! I will treasure this forever. Janet, you have taken me soooo by surprise! You really outdid yourself, I can't wait to post a pic! The earthfamily is coming for Christmas so I can post a pic then. Janet...I am so thrilled, thank you so much!

I hope all the little goat herders out there have a fun filled Christmas. Be warm, or cool, depending on what continent you live on, well fed, with family.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, peace on earth and pray everyone gets along. God bless us everyone...Elaine

Busy, busy !

2010-12-18T21:25:00.000-06:00

Wow...ya'll liked the Sherbet Pips...sold out in record time! I can't wait for the line to come out in April. Oh...did I mention? I didn't save any for moi! What"? How can that be? I do have my eye on a few new lines. Are there any you want? I am going to order heavy on Sherbet Pips so that I have enough. I have already taken a few pre-orders for the fat quarter pack and at least 3 layer cakes. Anything you can't live without...let me know, via email, and I can put you on the pre-order list.

We finally got our tree up today, yippee! For the past few years we have had trees that may have been cut in, oh, I don't know, September? My SIL told me she has been buying hers at Home Depot. I don't know if you have those in other parts of the world, but here, in the US, it's THAT store you go to when you are doing a remodeling project, laying tile, painting, or just gutting the kitchen! We were very pleased with the trees that were there and the whole house smells like fresh fir trees! Love it! Very fresh, kinda smallish, but it'll do just fine. So where do you get your tree? Do you cut it yourself? I love that Christmas tree connection.

Since I have started work, 2 weeks ago, I havent' read any blogs...and miss reading the goings on! I better get reading. Have a great weekend, Elaine

Sherbet Pips is almost out!

2010-12-18T00:06:00.000-06:00

The fat quarter pack is gone, so are the layer cakes and the jelly rolls. There are only 4 charm packs left. I have the charms set up to accept shipping to Canada and Australia. Remember, the Sherbet Pips will not be available, as a line or precuts, until April. And everyone who bought, thank you. If you didn't get that chance, more to follow in April! Thank you again, Elaine

Sherbet Pips is in!

2010-12-17T17:43:00.000-06:00

An advanced shipment has arrived....when it's gone, it's gone until April! In my etsy shop...!

Just the precuts available now. Thank you!

Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat goings on

2010-12-07T20:37:00.000-06:00

1) Mail my heart blocks to Shirley.

2) Calm Gordon down and get him in the envelope to mail to Kentucky tomorrow.

Gordon has been going to work with me the past few days. He is downright giddy! Ah, the history of Texas he has learned today! I only hope that he retains a wee bit to share with his mum!

I have been an awful procrastinating blogger this past few months...hope ya'll forgive me! I FINALLY went back to work last week and my life has been "interesting" for a bit now. I hope to get into the swing of things soon.

Remember, Sherbet Pips is coming...any day now!! Sweeeeeeettttt!!!!!

Cyber Monday

2010-11-29T15:34:00.000-06:00

So, if you wanted to pick up a few Quiltmania magazines, now is the time! 20% off and I can fit more then a few in a flat rate envelope=wahoo!

If I take the cardboard out of the layer cakes + 20% off = 2 fitting in a priority envelope!

Just saying is all.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/soggybottomflats

Mail call and Heart blocks

2010-11-29T14:04:00.000-06:00

This is Jax....secure in his feminine side, wearing a pink and black sweater. Gracie Mae is a nudist. She just can't help it.

Tara, one of the awesome quilter swappers from the BeeBalm, a virtual quilting bee...sent me some home grown soaps, lavender lotion bar in a jar and orange lip balm.....oh Tara, you had me from home made! Can you see the itty pin cushion? It's a wee disappearing 4 patch! I love, love, love it all! The pin cushion is sooooo sweet! Tara....do you sell your soaps and other stuffs? My son has already requested home grown soaps for Christmas and I will have to hide these when he comes to visit! Check out the cute little burlap bag she packed the goodies in! You know Tara, I love you!

Tara also sent 4, yep 4 blocks for my quilt. Thanks Tara, you're very sweet! I can't wait to get started putting it all together.

I have been putting a couple of heart blocks together for Shirley. I had a charm pack from Tranquility in my sewing room and ran with it! I love all the colors. Although, the colors look kind of fall like....it's spring in New Zealand. Do you think the colors are too drab? Maybe I should have went with brights. So, what do you think?

Remember, if you are uncomfortable posting to New Zealand, you can always send to me and I'll tuck them in the package I am posting out this week. Please just let me know if you are sending something to me so I know it's coming...easy, peasy! Send me a message and I'll happily send you my address.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/soggybottomflats

Don't forget~~~~~20% off in my etsy shop today until I go to bed tonight, lol. Who knows when that is. All you have to do is, choose what you want, add CYBERMONDAY in the checkout coupon code and you automatically get 20% off your purchase. Puleeeeese....I don't want to beat my hubs to count all that fabric at the end of December, he gets surly.

The Secret Sisterhood of the Traveling Goats

2010-11-26T23:23:00.000-06:00

You know, it just sounds more decadent when you put the "secret" in the sentence, hee,hee! I need to be more mature, I know, I know.

Let's get on with it, shall we? Goat spottings:

These goats are running all over the world.....to the USA, Australia, The Yukon.

Resting in the paddocks, getting a wee bit dressed up a bit, transforming and moving on to the next pasture.
12 Goat herders from Iowa, Yukon Territory, Louisiana, Texas, Western Australia, Kentucky, Texas, North Dakota, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, and Alabama, all having fun and getting creative. Pop on over to the ladies' blogs and see what they are up to.

Later all, Elaine

Black Friday

2010-11-25T23:58:00.000-06:00

Let me explain Black Friday here~~I guess I never gave much thought about black friday. I thought everyone camped out a week before the sales, literally camped....with tents, generators, campfire stoves, for the sales on Friday. The stores are getting a bit "off" by opening at midnight, 3 am, 4 am, or 5 am...just to lure the customers in for sales. I have never camped out, lol, please God, don't let me do that! Cyber Monday, is of course, Monday following Black Friday. Cyber monday refers to the busiest shopping day online, of the year. I did go to wikipedia and found some more info for those of you not living here in the states:

Black Friday is the day following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, traditionally the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. On this day many U.S. retailers open very early, often at 5 a.m., and offer promotional sales to kick off the shopping season. Because Thanksgiving always falls on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States, the day after occurs between the 23rd and the 29th of November.

The day's name originated in Philadelphia, where it originally was used to describe the heavy and disruptive pedestrian and vehicle traffic which would occur on the day after Thanksgiving. Use of the term began by 1966 and began to see broader use outside Philadelphia around 1975. Later an alternative explanation began to be offered: that "Black Friday" indicates the period during which retailers are turning a profit, or "in the black."

The news media frequently refers to it as the busiest retail shopping day of the year, but this is not always accurate. While it has been one of the busiest days in terms of pedestrian traffic at shopping centers, in terms of actual sales volume, from 1993 through 2001 Black Friday was the fifth to tenth busiest day.[1] In 2002 and 2004, however, it ranked second place,[2] and since 2005, it actually was the busiest retail day.[2]

In many cities it is not uncommon to see shoppers lined up for hours before stores with big sales open. Once inside the stores, shoppers often rush and grab, as many stores have only a few of the big-draw items. Injuries and even fatalities are reported. On Friday, November 28, 2008, Jdimytai Damour, a worker at a Walmart in Valley Stream, New York was trampled to death by shoppers who broke through the store's glass doors minutes before the store's scheduled opening at 5:00 a.m.;[3] a pregnant mother was hospitalized from injuries in the same human "stampede", though early reports of a resultant miscarriage were determined to be in error.[4] On that same day, two people in Palm Desert, California, were shot and killed in a Toys "R" Us store during an argument[5]

Many retailers close to Canada frequently attract cross-border traffic, so in 2009 several major Canadian retailers had their own version of the day by running promotions to discourage shoppers from leaving for the US.[6] Canada's Boxing Day has often been compared to Black Friday in terms of retailer impact and consumerism.

Yeah, I stay home. Conveinient for me, since I traditionally start my Christmas sewing that day, go figure, eh? If ya'll go out to shop, have a good time, I'll be here eating a turkey sandwich and drinking hot tea...

Black Friday is here 20% off everything in my shop

2010-11-25T22:45:00.001-06:00

I have 20% off my in my etsy shop for Black Friday. There are no restrictions, no rules. I don't care if you live in Timbuktu or Sante Fe, just make your purchase and type in:

BLACKFRIDAY

in the coupon code area of the checkout on my shop. You still pay the same shipping, but if you live in Texas...your tax is ONLY on the new amount, not the previous amount.

Oh...did I tell you yet? I am participating in a promotion from Moda on the new line of fabric, not coming out until April...have you seen it yet? Sherbet Pips? I. want. it. all. Seriously.

Remember when I said I had lost my sewing mojo....I think I found it! I'll keep ya'll posted, should have the Sherbet Pips precuts only. We'll all have to be patient for April to get the yardage, bummer! But the layer cakes, charm packs, jelly rolls and bundle of precuts....will all be shipped to my etsy shop mid December....just in time for Christmas. Yes, I will be happy to gift wrap for Christmas.

Now I have some trees to grow for Sue in Dongara and some heart blocks for Shirley in New Zealand. Please see my prior post about making some blocks or even just 1 block for her project. Thank you again Shirley. God bless the miners and their families who have been affected by this tragedy. Elaine

The New Zealand tragedy

2010-11-24T23:20:00.000-06:00

New Zealand has had yet another tragedy, with a mine entrapment, and several families affected by it. A quilter in NZ, is putting out an all call for some blocks. Her plan is to make quilts for the families and children of the miners. Please go to her blog and read up on it.

Whenever I hear of horrific events, it never fails to amaze me, the heartfelt grace that quilters possess, and are so willing to step up and DO something.

The miners and families are in my prayers, now, could YOU spare a block? She does have some specifics, so please read up on it. She also has her address available.

Oh, if you slip a block in a card , you can mail it first class without a customs form. You can also send it to me to mail for you. I'm getting a wee bit of something to pop into the mail, after the holiday weekend. Email me if you want to send it to me, and I'll send you my address and I'll wait for your letter to reach me before I send it off to New Zealand.

Thank you fellow quilters, ya'll are awesome...Elaine

The funniest bumper sticker ever

2010-11-22T16:51:00.000-06:00

Feeling rushed, heading into wallyworld....and there it was! A mini van with the best ever bumper sticker

All men are idiots

and

I married their King.

'ello...Mum?

2010-11-21T19:40:00.000-06:00

It's me, Gordon! I am very happy today. Miss Elaine tacked me down to my flag and gave me a wee scarf. It's going on fall here and gets a wee bit nippy. (I think it needs a button or two on it, gets a bit windy here).

I have some balloons for company,

I even have my own itty bitty banner!

And, Mum.......she is making me a tree (with some funny looking somethings on the branches), hmm.

I better get back to directing....she just pulled the button box out and is beginning to drool! See you soon Mum, having the time of my life here, your loving Gordon

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat placed!

2010-11-19T22:54:00.000-06:00

I thought long and hard, trying to come up with another way to "place" Gordon, my little Australian goat friend from Lizzie. A bunting is just right...

Now I just have to sew it down and send it off to Debbie, then off to DeeDee. It's about 20 feet long, 10 flags, each @ 8"x8" with a 10" space in between. I had found a very cute twill tape that says SEEDS on it, that I used for the ribbon. Overall I am pleased with it...until hubs pointed out that SEEDS is upside down. Some days it just doesn't pay to chew thru the restraints...

G'day....!

2010-11-15T12:25:00.001-06:00

Hullo, Mum.....you there? It's me Gordon, your little goat boy. Mum....do we have an area code?

Hey Mum....a shop! Maybe I should go inside for a wee peek...

Oh looky Mum, the vintagey tablecloth fabric....

Wahooooooo Mum, cowboys live here in Texas.....!

You know Mum, it's kind of a black and white world here...or is it a bit Asian?

Mum....look at the cat, a bit queer, eh? Lounging on the pillow. Hmmm, would be a good way to be.

Well, it's ok, but not quite "me", don't you think? Let me ask my Texas cousin, Garth....

He is not a "boy" mum, I am so confused now.....what shall I do?

I better go back in the house with my foster mum....she's weird Mum, help!

Oh wait....REAL tea china Mum...this is more like it! I better sign off now, here comes that weird foster mum again. I miss you, please send me grain for my teacakes...Love, Gordon

Are you domestic?

2010-11-12T22:28:00.000-06:00

I bought myself a book sometime back and have nearly worn it out! It is the most fun, informative, entertaining and inspiring book I have read in quite a few years. It's called THE GENTLE ART OF DOMESTICITY by Jane Brocket. You can buy lots of books on how to clean your oven, make your own cleaning products and even how to craft a zillion things for your family. That is being domestic. Domesticity is taking inspiration from your surroundings, making your home into a pleasureable place to be. She doesn't categorize people into bakers, quilters, or gardeners, but rather the idea that these people are all of one and more. She gently shares her intuitive sense of style, color and texture into her home all the while teaching the reader how to do the same in her home.

I would highly recommend this book to daughters, daughter in laws, sisters and even mommas. It really is that good.

I bought a few extra copies for my shop and have listed it there. Along with some new layer cakes, charm packs, pattern books, and fabrics. Pop on over to my etsy shop and see what's new.

Thanks for looking, back to my book...have a blessed weekend!

Check out this giveaway

2010-11-09T23:23:00.000-06:00

Carla has a giveaway going for several sets of blocks. She does such nice work and has found these, hee,hee, our luck! While you're at her blog, scroll a bit until you find her stained glass quilt. Very inspiring indeed.

I belong to an online quilting bee and chose the disappearing 4 patch as my block o the month. These are the blocks I have received so far.

From left to right in vertical rows:
BeeBee~Lousiana
Kate~Australia
Lizzie~Australia
Sue~Australia
Teresa~Michigan

Most of the fabrics are from the Origins line. Each member of this group is adding a special little touch of their own...aren't these blocks awesome? It's going to make a sweet quilt...JUST FOR ME ONLY. NOT TO SHARE OR TO GIFT OUT. Oops, sorry, no shouting, I know.

I'm getting a huge bunch of fabrics and pre-cuts in my etsy shop tomorrow, and yes, Origins has been re-ordered!

Off to bed for me, have a great rest of the week...Elaine

Traveling goats spotted!

2010-11-08T21:34:00.000-06:00

Hurry on over to DeeDee's house, she has goats lounging there! What a lucky herder to have two of the little imps at one time...what will she do? Go check them out...

Come on down to Texas ya'll!

2010-11-08T20:01:00.000-06:00

There is a saying here...I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as quick as I could! Enjoy.

Old quilts

2010-11-06T23:42:00.000-05:00

I picked up this little beauty, here in Canton at the flea market, last summer. I looked at it several times, circled the vendors stall a few times, popped over to check the price tag...it's a twin size, $125.00, hand quilted. Finally offered the vendor $75.00, listened to ranting and raving and how much this quilt means to her...and then she took the $75.00. So goes the wheeling and dealing of a flea market. Good times.

**DISCLAIMER**1) the vendor was @ 25 y/o, and not the quilter. 2) had no idea of the pattern name or it's age. 3) the quilt does have a white-white background, blogger is just trying to make me look weird today!

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat spotted!

2010-11-04T16:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a photo of Honey, my sweet little goat. She will be visiting Suzanne, then Sue, then Jan and then home to me! She will visit, Iowa, Western Australia, and Alabama. I can not wait for her to return home so I can see what she had been up to while traveling! BeeBee

We all wish Honey Godspeed and good tailwinds...speaking for all the Sisters, Elaine

Up-cycle this! or Playing along with Fee

2010-11-04T16:26:00.001-05:00

I have wanted to blog on this for quite awhile, but kept putting it off. When I found Fee's repurposed Thursday, well, here was my chance!

I tried to drive by the Goodwill, I really did, but...

Have you seen the packets of linen dinner napkins and walked on by? Like, what WOULD I do with them?

The blue stack, with the house in the center, contains 12 napkins, all for $2.99. The red striped ones, 7 napkins for $3.99, a bit heavier weight. The yellow ones, 4 napkins and 4 rubber backed placemats, all of those for $1.99.

I took 2 napkins and sewed down 3 sides, added a couple denim handles....

I wasn't sure if the hubs would use them, but when he found out you get 5 cents credit for every bag he brings in...he even uses the the one with fruits and foliage, lol!

The gingham bags were made from an upcycled tablecloth, found at a thrift shop for a few dollars. I actually made bottoms and sides for them. I am going to stick with just 2 bags sewn together, no sides. They get too heavy for old people like us. Makes us feel better about using less plastic...hate those bags... and helps us live a simpler life.

A Traveling goat spotted leaving Australia

2010-11-03T10:28:00.000-05:00

But not to worry...a passport accompanies, along with an International map. Get along little goat...

will see you in the US real soon...or is it the Yukon? Stay tuned, the gates are opened...

The Sisterhood is off and running..for real!

2010-11-02T23:46:00.000-05:00

All of the Sisters are up and running, getting the goats ready for the International Goat Fest...yeah, it's as important as Houston...I think?

Janet, who lives so far North, I had to google it. The Yukon. NOT part of the US, but a part of Canada. Pop over and read her story, wow, dedication girl! She is the only one I know, so far, who has went to a foreign country to buy wool to make her goat! Janet...I am speechless!

Janet...this is for you~~

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat spotted!

2010-11-01T07:52:00.000-05:00

Hello Elaine,

Just thought I would send you a photo of “Grertude “.

I had a lot of trouble getting her out of the garden and into the envelope but she is now on her way to Queensland to stay with Goatherder Fiona.

Hugz
Maria

Maria...your Gertrude is gorgeous!!

The underground goat is spotted!

2010-10-31T13:47:00.000-05:00

Sue has let loose her little goat for grooming...

This is to good to pass up

2010-10-31T11:56:00.000-05:00

Most of you already know that I have my own brick and mortar quilt shop and also on etsy..see side bar for the link.

But, Lord help me, I love fabric! I purposely cut multiple yards, of my "stash", into strips of varying sizes. Why, you ask? Because then I could justify buying more fabric because my "stash" was dwindling, lol! I know, it's a brilliant move. You may take my idea and run with it. I don't imagine it's a new thought..but, it was for me!~

Anyhoo, as I am a big procrastinator, stop laughing, I started the Fabshophop.com game yesterday. I have to visit @ least 140 shops to qualify for the prize...a go cutter...what? Cruising thru the shops is fun, addictive and can cost a bunch of money...yep. One of my favorite online shops The Tropical Quilter and found out today that they are retiring! That's the bad news. The good news is all the fabric is 50% off. OMG....so, if you living and breathing and have a few extra bucks...well, you know. Just a public service announcement for ya'll!

The 4th Bloggers Quilt Festival

2010-10-29T22:27:00.000-05:00

The fourth bloggers quilt festival is going on now, over at Amy's place. What a ton of inspiration is awaiting those who are fortunate to find it! Pop over and see them, it will help you buy more fabric, lol!

My entry is actually 2 baby quilts that I made last year. My daughter was having a baby girl in November and my dear daughter in law was having another baby girl in January! I didn't want either of the new mommies to feel like the other girl was given a prettier quilt, or bigger or smaller quilt, so they both received the same thing!

I used mostly stash fabrics in pinks and browns using a pattern that was very simple. Dana had a sew a long on her blog, quite some time ago, and I had done a quilt then. I knew I would come back again, to this pattern. I just love it!

What I learned while making these quilts: sometimes simply is the best. Since I had 2 quilts to make, I really didn't want a complicated pattern, something both mommies would like, so I went with it! I also learned that when you use fabrics from your stash that sometimes said stash replicates itself into @ least 10 more yards!

I used 100% cotton sheets for the backings, and little "ends" of rows, sewn together, to tie the fronts to the backs. I am very pleased with this effect. I have seen very similar backings all over blogland and wanted to try it out. I used my walking foot and quilted them myself, an acomplishment for me!

They both are 60"x70", I know, overkill. I love making bigger baby quilts.

Both babies love their blankies and so do the mommies! Have a great time visiting Amy and the Bloggers Quilt Festival, Elaine

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat....needs one more please!

2010-10-29T19:20:00.001-05:00

So far we have 3 groups of like minded goat herding women. Each group has 4 members each, except group 3. We need one more lady...now, who is up for the furry goodness of goat herding?

I hope we can get 1 more lady by Sunday night. If you know of any potential herders out there, send em over! Thanks, baa baaaaa........Elaine

What our Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat is up to

2010-10-28T05:17:00.000-05:00

Great job on your penny rug Fiona! I have enjoyed seeing your progress on your first rug.

Don't you just love the little lady bug? Thanks for sharing your progress Fiona. I can hardly wait to see what you do with your goat!

Here is Sue with her down under traveling goat. Udderly charming Sue, love it!

Thanks for sharing ladies. Very clever indeed! I hope you are enjoying the traveling show. Have a great day, Elaine

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat roster

2010-10-27T19:26:00.003-05:00

Please let me know if I have left anyone out or if you have changed your mind. I have 9 people signed up, and that includes myself. We would love to have an extra 3 join in, don't be bashful girls! Now all you ladies have to do is enlarge the goat that I have uploaded on my prior blog post, and cut him out of wool, felt or something else you would like. Place him/her in an envelope and get ready to mail it off. We are having the added fun of a few ladies from down under joining in. It only takes 6-10 days for the mail in Australia or New Zealand and the cost of a first class stamp is @ 98 cents US.

Without further ado, here are the lists:

Elaine 1-2-3-4
Debbie 2-3-4-1
DeeDee 3-4-1-2
Lizzie 4-1-2-3

Second List:
Fiona 1-2-3-4
Laura 2-3-4-1
Janet 3-4-1-2
Maria 4-1-2-3

Third List:

Sue 1-2-3-4
Jan 2-3-4-1
BeeBee 3-4-1-2

We need 1 more lady to make the third list....

I sent my goat to Debbie, she gets to make the first decision on what to do with it. Then she sends it off to DeeDee to put the first embellishments on it, then she sends it off to Lizzie who finishes the goat and sends it back to me!

Debbie sends her goat off to DeeDee who gets the first decision on what to do with her (Debbie's goat), then sends it off to Lizzie who embellishes it, then sends it off to me, so I can finish it off and send it back to Debbie.

~~**I have Maria's name down on the sidebar, but I think she may be doing her own goat a long in Oz. If you want to join us Maria, we would be thrilled to have you...right, you little goat herders?**~

I had thought at first that it would be fun to keep the results of the house calls a secret, but re-thinking it, I may be in huge error! Now I believe it would be more fun to blog on it's adventures. What do you ladies think? Blog or secret? Debbie...hugs to ya girlfriend, Elaine

I am off to take a critical care class for my nursing, so I won't be back online until tomorrow night and Friday night. I have to travel 65 miles east to another town, one way on the freeway. Send email concerns to me and I WILL get back to you, if my internet holds up! Also, I wanted to let you little chicken loving friends know...my fat little black hen reappeared today to eat and fight the roosters off. Then she disappeared again. I may be a chock mawmaw in a few more weeks, eh? wahoo!!

A little off track, but....

2010-10-27T11:34:00.002-05:00

I love this lady!!!

I'm baaaaccckk!!

2010-10-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

We had some rough weather this past weekend and a tower, carrying our internet feed, fried. So I have been without internet and/or email since Saturday.....yes, I have had withdrawals! I slept like a rock the past few nights but the hubs told me the winds were horrid day before yesterday. My attack roosters...the rabid bantams...are missing a fat little black hen. I don't know if the winds carried her off or what.

The windy drama aside, I am anxious to get going on the goat-capades. Sue, from Australia, has a traveling goat-a-long! Go check it out, very cute. My friend, Debbie, asked for some guidelines for doing the goat-a-long here, so I thought I would answer her questions.

Let's make it fun, no pressures, no expectations, just fun, ok? We will need at least 4 people to participate.

Each person cuts out a goat from wool or felt, and puts their name and address on the back. That way, when the goat is finished, it knows where to go to reach home!

Send your goat to the first person, and they get to do something fun with it. I sent mine to Debbie who gets to decide how to use it. By this I mean, choose a background of wool, felt, flannel, cotton, etc. Make a penny rug, tea cozy, wall hanging, etc. Or make it into a Christmas ornament. The first person is the one to make the decision on how the goat is placed.

The second person adds embellishment, embroidery, buttons, beads, etc. Then off to the next in line.

The third person adds more embellishments and off to the fourth person.

When the last person in line gets the goat, finish it off and send it back to it's mama. You can blog on his adventures, like Sue has done on her blog. Check it out, very cool!

I'll put a blog roster up on my sidebar, of people who are participating, ok? So far, we have 2. Come on, what's it gonna hurt to get silly for a day/? Come and join in with us...

Lets all play!

2010-10-23T10:51:00.000-05:00

Can I play too. This sounds like fun. Maybe we could each start one and then it could go to everyone and then return to its "mommy" for safe keeping. Just a thought.

thanks

beebee

What a brilliant idea! I sent my goat off to Debbie this morning, she is going to be "tied up" later in the week so we wanted to get moving on it. Why don't you send me your goat and I'll do some embellishment on it and pass it off to someone else. I think this could be lots of fun, eh? Perhaps we could get 3-5 people to do something fun before it comes home to "mommy". Ladies....any potential goat embellishers out there? Don't be shy now!

This was my goat rug I did several years ago. Now, I ask, do you REALLY think he looks like a rabbit? Fine, but do bunnies have an udder? Thought so! This is just an idea that I had for him. I'm sure ya'll can come up with something much more imaginative. Reach inside yourself and grab that Martha Stewart and drag her out to play...

And as far as I am concerned, I am happy to post overseas. It really doesn't take all that long you know. It actually gets there before mail to Canada does...go figure!

I'm thinking this is the month of the goat...

Something a bit different

2010-10-22T22:15:00.000-05:00

I'm still looking at my wall hanging and thinking on it. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Debbie made the cutest little silver tray mat, check it out! I have been having a blast playing around in my sewing room, arranging my things...ok, fine, trying to trudge thru my mess, is more like it! I put my sewing machine back in there, out of the living room and peeking at my little mat...real soon...., real soon.

Debbie, Fiona , Kim and I are encouraging each other to work on our projects. I think it's so interesting that we have all met and are interested in the same thing. Debbie said that she enjoys the primitiveness of them. I guess I always thought of them as being American Folk Art. I wonder, Fiona, what do you liken them to? Debbie is awaiting a new project and I hope she likes this one!

So here's the deal Debbie: I am going to suggest a goat, because I love goats. Now, you Debbie, yes you, get to do something with it. Then after getting extremely creative and artsy....you can pass on the next step to whomever wants to join along.

It does look a bit like an inebriated Kangaroo, eh? Well, just pretend it's really a goat. So, what do you think? Maybe you want the goat to pull a cart, or stand in a flower patch? Or maybe be in the middle of pumpkins? After you decide on one element, then you get to pass the torch to someone else. Then they get to add their element to it. Kind of a round robin of sorts. Are you interested? If you want to join in, send a comment. Oh, and feel free to copy the goat. Who's next?

French knots are so much fun!

2010-10-18T15:56:00.001-05:00

I used Valdani overdyed threads, perle cotton #8, and stitched a few French knots on my stitchery. I didn't want to overdo it, so stopped with a small grouping. Then I went a little different, shall we say, on some "x's" and blanket stitches. When I removed the staples, some of the wool was kind of mooshed down, so I ran my fingernail over it to make it stand up.

I think I am going to put it up on my wall for a few days and just look at it. There is more to do but now I just want to think on it and see how crazy I can get! Have you ladies been stitching? Fiona is doing so well on hers, here is a little peek, isn't she doing great?

Anyone else have a pic to share or at least one I can steal from your blog...not really, just checking to see if you're really reading it! I'm going to go hang up my piece and stare at it. Maybe some cheap red wine would help my perspective...later~~

I nearly forgot to mention my deal of the month...yard sales are fun, but a yard sale 2,400 miles long?
So we only made 3 stops. The first one, I picked up a goat cart

It has some slats replaced with new wood and the hubs had to do some repairs on it, but hey, I love it...it is now home in my livingroom, screaming for a teddy bear. $10.

The next goody is a 12 block sunbonnet sue quilt. The lady said it was very dirty, from hanging in her living room for years, in a hanger in a corner. I also found out that the quilt was made here, in Van Zandt county Texas several years ago. I hung it on my clothesline for a pic and also snapped the back. Did you ever wonder what would happen, if you didn't quilt 4-6 inches apart?

This is the cotton batting shifted. No holes or tears in this quilt. I want to take it apart, remove the cotton clots and re-do it. On my bucket list. $5.00, if I promised to give it a good home, yep, I will.

A celery Singer Featherweight, from @1963-64. The belt was missing, but the nice man popped a wide rubber band on. OMG IT WORKED! The machine did too. We also discovered that the motor housing has a crack in it. But, the baby works. Hubs has self taught himself to FW CPR and has her cleaned, oiled and has discovered that he doesn't think she was ever used! Seriously, took her all apart and she is clean as a whistle. Runs like a 14 year old track star! I am not sure what to do with her yet. She is soooooo sweet.

That's it for my yard sale finds. Anyone else hit it luckier then most this past weekend?

Fun on the Farm

2010-10-15T22:03:00.000-05:00

Have you ever herded a chicken? My brilliant thought was to let my chickens do the "free range" thing, roam the pasture, be one with nature....while I got my Birkenstocks and long jean skirt out. And one of the little brave hens headed over to the neighbors pasture, where the bull lives with his polygamist family. Hubs, " go ahead, he's a Charolais, he won't hurt you....meek as a lamb"...righttttttt! So there I am, ripping my skin off on the brush, shimming under barbed wire fences, looking for the rabid bull and his babes...and there SHE was! Finally. She managed to find a hole amidst the brush and wire, hubs helped her through and then the rooster, Big Red, took advantage of her! And ya'll think I just sit around and eat bon-bons and drink tea all day? I wish.

My progress

2010-10-14T22:31:00.000-05:00

I am using Valdani perle cotton...don't you love the red?

Now I am just getting plain goofy with my stitches, and love it. I like to try different colors and textures. I also enjoy doing the plain stitches, like fill ins. See that little red moon on the right? Enlarge the pic and check out what I did on it using the red perle cotton. I see I still have room for some beads or maybe French knots...omg, I love doing those. I taught myself how to do them and enjoy the added dimension you get when you use them.

So how is your stitchery doing? I am looking for the appropriate hanging "item" to use to hang in my sewing room. How are you going to display yours?

How is your stitchery/penny rug/or? coming along?

2010-10-11T23:34:00.000-05:00

Due to circumstances, beyond my control, I'll be back tomorrow. Back to it, cheers~~

Starting to stitch

2010-10-09T21:41:00.000-05:00

My new friend, Fiona, from Oz , has sent me a pic of the fabulous rose...very chic! I do love it girl, thank you so much for sharing.

In the meantime,

I grabbed some different fabrics, laces, ribbons, and ...nah, nothing really grabbed my attention.

Much better, threads and maybe buttons. I think I'll start the stitching. Then, think about buttons.

How is your design going? Are you going to use embroidery floss or perle cottons? No pic of my embroidery skills...yet. As soon as I find where the hubs hid the battery charger for the camera, well, you know. Later, moi

Penny rug sew along, choosing the design

2010-10-08T22:44:00.000-05:00

I found a piece of felt to use for my rug. Since it's already been hacked into, I'll just cut a chunk off.

No measuring, just fold over and cut off the offending chunk!

I had a bag of scraps and dumped them out and started looking thru them, trying to find something that jumped out at me. My pennys are stapled and waiting for the rest of the rug to come together.

I tried some little pieces out, shaping a flower, nahhh...I don't think so.

This is kinda weird...I like it, but it needs some punch.

So far I like the colors and shapes. I'll grab the stapler and staple each piece to the background first. I can't wait to start the embellishing! How are your rugs coming along? Have you chosen traditional shapes or have you indulged into something fun and funky? I can't wait to see what you guys have come up with. I have some fun threads, buttons and beads and ribbons to add.

Come back tomorrow to see what's next...

penny rug sew along

2010-10-07T23:11:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure how to re-post this , so if you go there, you can see how I cut my shapes out and used the stamp pad and butcher paper.

Tomorrow we are going to do the embroidery and attach the embellishments...wahoo!

How are your designs?

2010-10-06T19:29:00.000-05:00

I had a question on "why are they called penny rugs", and found this from a post I did some time ago. I hope this answers your questions. The pen wipers are fun too.

There are several references, with pics, on my blog from previous posts, if you want to check them out, go to the search box and type in PENNY RUGS, have some tea and chocolate handy, I am rather chatty.

I am going to wait until tomorrow to post the next step, I had issues today and need to clean up that mess. Let's just say it may take more then 1 roll of paper towels, good quality furniture polish and my paper scissors.

Pop in tomorrow with your felt, butcher paper, stapler and scissors. Now would be a good time to check out your button box for some fun buttons, odd pieces of ribbon and jewelry, those little weird things you just couldn't throw away....Debbie, you keep crossing my mind, lol! Hmm, weird.

I received this in an email and smile every time I see it...thought I better share with ya'll, Elaine

First things first

2010-10-05T20:31:00.000-05:00

Is everyone ready to make a penny rug? Good. The first thing you want to do is determine what you want and how big you want it, so now grab your sketching paper and start doodling. This is something you want to be able to finish in a short period of time, so don't get too involved with the design...save that for wool! Working with ~~felt~~ wool is an old American folk art, not perfect, not real detailed.....but recognizable and fun!

I made this penny rug a few years ago and think my sister in law has it. She loves these things.

I am not a sketcher nor a planner, I just plunder along, hoping it turns out ok.

Pop out to your kitchen and find a platter, plate or serving bowl. This little rug is the same dimensions of this cute little Corelle platter I used to own.

I traced around the platter, face down, on butcher paper, and cut it out on the lines. Lay the pattern aside and go on a cookie cutter hunt. (You quilt, therefore you eat and you probably have some stuck away somewhere. I found so many that I cannot freely admit how many I have, the HOARDER connection, lol.)

I actually had the cat and the moon cutters. The pumpkins and stems are just scrappy little pieces I free cut. If you don't have those, don't get too worried. You can get lots of free shapes on the web, in kids coloring books...lots of places. Leaves, acorns, crows, squash, corn, etc.

If you're using the cookie cutters, just set them on the pattern you cut earlier, to see how it looks together. If you're using something else, then trace them on butcher paper, cut them out and place on the pattern.

When you're happy with how everything fits together, take a digital pic, for yourself. Don't be afraid to change it up or scrap it and start over.

Play around with this tonight and do go online to etsy or ebay and check out penny rugs. Since you are a budding artist and wouldn't dream of copying any of the work displayed, do check it out to see how others do their penny rugs, mug mats and/or candle mats. And if you truly want inspiration, you have GOT to see what this lady can do! A wool Goddess, that Sue Spargo!

I want you to also check out your cupboards and bathroom for circles. I used a shot glass for the pink pennys!

Get your butcher paper ready and if you have a very inexpensive stamp pad, any color will do, along with a stapler....now, if you have any questions, please, please ask! Do you want to get to it tomorrow or wait a few days? Let me know your consensus...

Penny rug sew along

2010-10-05T00:38:00.000-05:00

Now I am in the mood to create a table rug for the fall. Want to join along? Good. Now, if you don't have any wool or it's just to difficult to cut into those fat quarters, never fear, we are going to use regular old craft felt! You can pick some up at Joannes, Wallyworld, Hancocks, etc. You may have some lurking in your sewing room or your neighbor has some you could take off her hands.

If you have to go to the store to buy some felt, make sure you get a square of orange, black, brown, green, yellow....colors associated with fall. If you want something very simple, just go for the colors you want to concentrate on.

You will also need some embroidery floss, black if you have it, a stapler, fabric scissors, paper scissors, embroidery needle, a sketch paper and pencil, and freezer paper.

Now, if blogger were behaving tonight I would have added a pic. But since we are not living in the real world, just take my word for the supplies needed. Great, now tune in tomorrow for more...go get your supplies ready~~~no, don't wash it!

Winner!

2010-10-03T19:13:00.000-05:00

The random number was picked, so the winner is:

Tara said...

THe circles are lovely--great colors! I've got working with wool on my list of things to do! Will it ever get shorter? Thanks for the chance to win!

September 23, 2010 3:59 PM

You so rock Tara! I want to thank everyone for hanging on and for the wonderful comments. I have read each one and loved them all. Have a wonderful Sunday evening/Monday morning~~Elaine

Presents in the mail~~~

2010-09-30T16:14:00.000-05:00

The nice mail person pulled up today with an awesome box, all the way from down under!

After holding it for several minutes, big daddy asked if I was going to open it.....I was actually content to just hold it, silly.

Do you see the loveliness? This started with just a question on a blog post....what is Peri-Peri? So Fiona sent me some gorgeous wools+ a pin cushion + the spice + a CHERRY RIPE !!! That would be dark chocolate, coconut and the most lucious cherry jelly-like filling. Now, I have not won a giveaway, nor paid anything for this...I am not used to being spoilt like this! Check out the ribbon...how classy!

Ohh, did I mention the Ladybug pincushion? Or the handmade card! And under the ladybug are 2 pieces of wool! Life is wonderful today. Fiona, you made me very happy today.

Big daddy asked if I was going to eat all of that chocolate bar, no dear, I would love to share with you....oh, oh....I forgot, coconut is not a liked food group for you, is it? I couldn't risk it going bad either. I ate the entire bar and loved every bite. I can hardly wait to use that spice.

Fiona...I thank you so much for making me fat, sassy and full! Your new bff in Texas, Elaine

More goodies for my giveaway

2010-09-29T20:21:00.000-05:00

I am adding 3 little patterns, 3 balls of #8 overdyed Valdani perle cottons and a packet of needles, all for the giveaway. Little plant pokes and a Snowman mini table runner. Just some fun stuff to get you started on wool!

Please go to the post, 200th post giveaway, to enter for the prize package of wooly stuff, thank you.

Back to getting ready for my yardsale, Elaine

Still cutting circles for my giveaway

2010-09-28T22:54:00.000-05:00

I am still cutting some circles out and sorting the sizes in each of 3 bags. You wouldn't believe what a pleasure it is with the Accuquilt Go die to cut the circles out! My mind is racing at the possibilites...

I talked with the nice lady at Accuquilt today and asked about the new basket die....I want it now...please.

I had a friend send an email about the Accuquilt go cutter and thought I would answer any question(s) you might have about it.

Yes, I carry the Go-Cutters in my shop. Yes I can ship them overseas! Wahoo, be the first down under to own the Accuquilt-Go cutter!!

I am getting ready for a yard sale. I have to quit watching hoarders! But to alleviate any fears, no I have NOT put any fabric out to sell, lol.

Nearly time for bed, you'all sleep well, later, Elaine

Wool penny rug bases

2010-09-26T23:28:00.000-05:00

The first decision you need to make is....the shape and size of the rug you want to make. Then the fibers...do you want wool on wool, like the rooster?

Then, the next decison is....do you use a commercial pattern, or just wing it?

If I am making a small rug, like my little goat friend here, I headed to the kitchen for my favorite little oval platter, traced around it onto freezer paper, rough cut it out and then iron it on my wool. Now cut out on the lines and you have a base...cool huh?

Wool holds up very well and mixes with other fibers too.

This is a commercial pattern that came as a kit a few years agao....I have no idea who the artist was. The base is flannel and the elements are all felted wool. I love this wall hanging.

Remember those pesky circles that I have cut gillions of this past week? Wouldn't they look perfect on this Circle of Life quilt....made from a pattern.

Hmm, I need to go check out some fabrics for this idea...I am going to add some cotton circles.

Don't forget, if you're entering the giveaway, please leave your comment on the 200th post giveaway. Back to Hoarding: Buried Alive....what am I thinking, watching this propagand, lol! Later all, Elaine

Working with wool

2010-09-24T21:00:00.000-05:00

If you have never worked with wool, do give it a try. You really can't hurt it. I have been buying woolens for several years and felting them at home. I would only buy 100% wools and some mixed fibers, if they were the right colors! I could buy wool off the bolt...but how often do you see "that" orange or green? I really love the tweeds, plaids and nubby textures some of the woolens have.

So this is how I have amassed the tonnage of woolens. IF YOU ARE MS.LOTTIE, STOP READING NOW!! I buy the wool blankets, coats, skirts, etc. that I usually pick up for $2. or less and cut them up! Remove all the buttons~~~fodder for the button jar~~take the clothing apart at the seams and remove as much as the facing as you can. Now wash the pieces in very hot water with detergent (I use my homemade laundry soap), rinse in cold water. Then dry in a hot dryer. You will need to clean the lint trap often. Now if you're weird like me, you'll save that wooly lint for your next pin cushion!

I use a steam iron and press the wool very well. Pour on the water, and if you find a piece of wool that doesn't hold up to this process, toss it! Not worth keeping, it's best to just use the better pieces.

I'm sure everyone has their own way of creating their own woolens for felted wool applique, this is just mine. I have talked about this before but some of you are new. Don't be afraid to experiment.

I have tried to add pics tonight but blogger is acting like my ex-husband, AGAIN! Take my word for it, they are very professional pics, tasteful, perfect lighting.....losing you, aren't I?

So today I have found some pale cantalope ovals...perfect for a fall rug! I am adding one of these to the circles...who knows what I will add to the booty tomorrow. Off to my baby boys for his birthday celebration....will be an all day affair. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes...kind of a celebration of his birth. I can't wait...this is the earthdaddy.

Now, if I can figure out what blogger is doing with the pics and adding them! I have tried to add some pics to no avail...so sorry.

In the meantime, I have had a few inquiries into the scraps I am knee deep in. If you would like some of the funky scraps, I would be happy to send some to you for the postage only. The flat rate envelopes are $4.90 and I can stuff alot in them! Let me know and I'll start stuffing some of them for you quilters. For overseas, if you want to pay the postage, I would be happy to send some to you as well. Just let me know how much postage you want to pay and I can prepare some scraps to equal that amount.

If you're new, please go to the 200th post giveaway, to enter for the circles, etc. Thank you and good evening, Elaine

Swiss cheese

2010-09-24T10:06:00.000-05:00

My humble beginnings...looks like Swiss cheese to me! I was having so much fun cutting the circles that I didn't make the most from my wool....most of the time!

It doesn't look like much, but it is. See the little red circle, to the left? It is from the ribbing from a wool sweater! Very cool texture.

The pieces at the top on this picture....are the imperfect pieces. I'm not sure what to do with them. I like to use them for the tops of the rugs for leaves, moons, flower parts.....

So if you win the perfect circles....do you want the imperfect ones added in as well?

If you are entering the draw....DON'T DO IT ON THIS ENTRY PLEASE!!! GO TO THE previous entry, titled, 200th post giveaway and leave a comment there.

Now, off to find some awesome plaids, houndstooth, and funky colors worthy of a modern penny rug. Later, Elaine

200th post giveaway

2010-09-22T22:36:00.000-05:00

Finally! Issues and more issues....now I finally get the computer to work! Lets get on with the giveaway......

Remember the circles I made with the Accuquilt go cutter? I have cut a bunch in some lucious fall colors...browns, tweeds, oranges, reds, rust, tans, and other fun colors. Included in the circles are some perle cottons, needles.....everything you would need for a fall penny rug or tablerunner. A few patterns for wooly plant pokes and funky little penny rugs. IF I CAN FIND THE CAMERA, I CAN DOWNLOAD A PIC OF THE BOOTY. Oh, sorry, was I shouting? And yes thank you, I do ship overseas...happily!

Now the rules:

None. Ok fine, a few. Just leave a comment on how much you want to learn how to work with wool and do the fun embroidery that others are doing all over the net! Please leave your email. If you don't have a blog and don't leave an email.....I will draw another name, sorry, no exceptions!

I'll draw the winner Oct 4th....and will keep adding little goodies until then...Lord help us all!

Don't forget to send an orphan block to Miss Lizzie in Australia...it only cost me $.98 for a stamp and that block was in a card! It is so worthwhile. And while I have your attention...keep the people in New Zealand in your prayers...their gale force winds are creating some real havoc there.

And lastly, thank you for all the kind comments you always send. Remember, you don't have to sign up to be a follower to enter, just a comment will do. Now, back to cutting MORE circles!...Elaine

What do you do when the love is not there...

2010-09-21T19:38:00.000-05:00

...give it away! So I was putzing around in my sewing scraps and cut some squares out and began sewing them up....then I realized the love was not there. I do not like them. Not at all. I want them gone. Now, please feel sorry for me and take them. Please? The first person that tells me they want them and why, gets them! Oh, and a little Moda Bella Snow, kind of an eggshell sweet color and cut into 1 1/2" strips. My sewing room thanks you, so does my husband...Elaine

Oh, and since this is my 200th post, I'll have to post a giveaway tomorrow, stay tuned!

Oh I do love my Accuquilt Go!

2010-09-18T22:24:00.000-05:00

So I decided to get busy, since I am always left behind, and get that go-cutter out and go crazy with it!

Not reading directions first, geez, I went ahead and cut my fabrics @ 10" wide and placed it on the die.

Now place the well used cover on the top....

...Pop the die under the roller and wind your way to happiness!

Oh sweet Lord, check it out....perfect 2 1/2" fabric strips, from selvage edge to selvage edge.

Now this is the part that I went to the directions...lol, yeah, I can read! If you initially cut your fabrics @ 8 1/2" wide, your waste is minimal...duh! But, not to worry. See those 2 strips, crosswise...well, they are going in my string quilt! Perfect. So did I cut the initial cuts down...nah, I kinda like the string quilt idea.

The new cuts are in my etsy shop. I love the cuts on my Accuquilt-go cutter. No pinked edges make me happy!

I was kind of curious about my hand dyed wool in the cutter...so, what the heck.

Can you believe how wonderful this is for me? I didn't cut the wool down, just fooling around with it.

Yep, it's a keeper!

So I tried again, cutting the wool down, a bit close, huh?

Oh sweet!

I have no control now, these are fun! Oh, and I do sell these machines. Email me if you're interested. I'll even pay your shipping, wahoo! Now, where is my next piece of wool...?

Thanks for all your kind comments, take care, now I'm off to quilt something, Elaine

Help for a quilt sister please!

2010-09-16T11:30:00.000-05:00

My friend, Lizzie, has posted a call for orphan blocks to make a quilt for her beloved friend who is terminal. Please go to her page and read her story. She is in Australia, but one block, folded will fit nicely in an envelope. Thank you for being a quilt sister, Elaine

Sunday afternoon

2010-09-12T21:44:00.000-05:00

I went over to my little friend Helen's house, my little elderly friend and helped her with a project she wanted to do. She told me she is not allowed to sew on Sunday...because as a little girl, her mother had said so. But she wanted "something" sewn and said I could, no problem. I asked if it was for perhaps a religious reason...nope, but her mom had said so. You have to love that! She is 82.

Look what I found at the Goodwill? Great carosel cans, perfect lids too! $1.99 each, standard button box size, don't you think?

I need to finish up some felted woolys for my shop. Halloween is coming up! I also have a few other things to finish up. I just seem to keep starting new projects and piling up those ufo's. I need to just FINISH SOMETHING!!!

I asked my friend Jeanne if she wanted to make a 30's repro quilt, a smaller then normal, Dresden plate. I think it would be fun, but darn it, she is going to finish her current project first. If only I were so commited! Thats ok with me, I don't seem to be in a big hurry either. What I need to do is keep working on my sewing room cleanup and purge. Wish me luck on that one! Later, moi

The shop name

2010-09-11T19:08:00.000-05:00

I need to fess up the name of "the" shop to some ladies. Now keep in mind, I only ordered 2 charm packs, wrote a letter to them a few days later...and received 3 emails! Not computer generated either, but real emails...what? Yep. Sandy is a very sweet lady and her prices are very good, excellent really. And, if you do place an order...tell her you heard about her uber customer service from me, lol! She really deserves some niceness after me today.

**This is Snow White. He is the MAN of the barn yard. I think he's gorgeous.**

This is what happens to bad little boys that attack she who cleans your home, feeds you, and makes mud pits in the hot weather for you. Bye Snowy, hope you enjoy your new ~~freezer~~ home! Love, mom

My red face

2010-09-11T15:20:00.000-05:00

So I bought 2 charm packs online from an independent quilt shop 2 1/2 weeks ago. It did not arrive until today....after I wrote an unpleasant and downright rude note to the shop. I had paid for priority mail. *Did you know that priority mail is not guaranteed to arrive in 2 days? Even if you pay the priority price, that means zilch to them, those nice postal people. It actually means you are goofy for paying that extra amount. If you REALLY want to know when the package arrives, you have to purchase the tracking numbers.* The package arrived today. The lady at the shop was sooooooooo sweeeeeeeeeeeeeet and gracious.....and I was not. Sandy...my heartfelt apologies, I would call and beg forgiveness but my foot is trapped in my mouth!

The post mark on the package stated it was mailed on the 1st of Sept, today is the 11th....what the heck? It was not the shops fault. Ahhhh, hello, Mr. Postmaster....are ya delivering packages via mules? I think Tennessee is really not that far from Texas.

So I am telling you this to maybe save another dumbass like me from shooting their mouth off without hearing the whole story. Oh, the almost best part...the nice lady wrote back immediately and said according to her tracking numbers, the package was delivered yesterday!

I would highly recommend this shop...the prices are better then most shops and they like sleep on the computer...all correspondence is answered in a timely manner. Future online shopping to be done here for me.

So today I am embarrassed, humble and contrite. Just saying is all.

Upcycled fun

2010-09-11T14:59:00.000-05:00

Ms.Lottie had found an interestingly gorgeous piece of stitchery from an op shop about the same time I was busy putting my newfound stitchery to a new up-cycled use. This is my new knitting needle case, with the addition of a few scrap bag finds.

I had a left over piece of batting and leftover ribbons. Perfect.

I machine quilted several rows and had some leftover binding that was a good fit, in color and length. Since the lacy edge was tattered in a number of places, I had no guilt covering it up.

Now I have a place for my knitting needles and have saved a vintage stitchery from who knows what.

I love not using patterns, sometimes it even turns out to my liking. I love my new case!

Now I just have to figure out what to do with my double point needles and all my crochet hooks! Wish me luck, Elaine

Watching TV has consequences

2010-09-07T14:25:00.000-05:00

The new season of Hoarders started last night. I am so in the mood to destash now, lol! So I have begun to add to my etsy shop some of my fabulous sewing room excess.

The first one added today is this DIY purse/tote/pillow kit. How about some cute little clutches for those Redneck bridesmaids on your list? You add the pattern or just make up your own as you go.

Please, please stop letting me watch those shows! Or, hop over to my shop and help me destash. Thanks, now back to ironing and cutting for me~~~Elaine

What a wonderful surprise!

2010-09-05T13:34:00.000-05:00

I opened my email this morning, and nearly fell over reading the following letter:

Dear Elaine,

I came across your blog some weeks ago and I liked your tutorial of the disappearing 4 patch very much.

I started patchworking and quilting in October last year and I am still a real beginner but very eager to progress and to learn. Internet is a great place to find all kinds of ideas, tutorials and tecniques. Once per week I attend patchwork classes and I really enjoy it a lot: my teacher (Concha - http://concha-chic.blogspot.com/) is more a friend than a teacher and our group (we call us "las chicas de oro" - the golden girls) is a bunch of 8 women of different ages, different origins and cultural backgrounds but we form a wonderful group of women who found in patchworking a way of having a great time together.

Sorry if I make mistakes in my English, but it's a lot of time ago that I haven't used it and I am afraid it is somewhat "rusted".

I love reading your blog, your entries about your family, friendship, your animals (I am so sorry for your dog Christian's death... I have a lady-dog.. her name is Linda and she is 13 years old... I do not want to imagine my desperation the day she will not be with me...), your new-found sister, your life in Texas... I adore your home's porch! Such a porch is one of my unfulfilled dreams... the rocking chair... the flowers... nature....

Your posts transmit warmth, sensitivity and I think you must be a caring, cheerful and sensitive woman.

And now the reason of my mail... I wanted to show you my version of the disappearing 4 patch. I am planning a quilt for my grandaughter's bed. Her name is Brisa (Breeze in English) and she is a wonderful charming little lady of 1 year 1/2. After finishing her quilt, I will make the same (but with other colour combinations) for Niko, my grandson (he is 3).

I send you a foto of my two little sunshines and the disappearing 4 patches.

Lots of hugs from Spain,

Rose

http://rosepatchworkeando.blogspot.com/

I immediately wrote back to Rose and asked her permission to post her letter and pics and she graciously gave permission for me to post them. I love her blocks! Are they just the cutest? I went to her blog and also her teachers blog...these ladies are so delightful! I was humbled by Roses' letter. I want to thank whomever came up with blogs, for bringing me ladies, just like Rose, into my life!

A quick sidenote, when you go to these blogs, you better fix a snack and a hot cup of tea! Until next time, take care and just know that you do make a difference~~~Elaine

Labor Day guests

2010-09-04T12:24:00.000-05:00

It's Labor Day weekend here in the USA. School used to start AFTER Labor Day, so did the NFL and college football along with the Southern Nascar 500. I remember picnics, horseshoes and happy family times, watermelon, fried chicken and mama's potato salad.

Labor Day is the first Monday in September, always has been, and is not indigenous to the USA. In other parts of the world it's a holiday celebrated as Labour Day or International Workers Day. Here in the US, it signifies the end of summer, not wearing white clothing, (lol), and was first celebrated September 5, 1882 in New York City. It did not become a federal holiday until 1894. Wikipedia has unlimited info if you're interested.

My sister sent me this pic of a squirrel house, outside her window. I fell in love with it and begged one from my husband. Big Daddy built me one and I love it! It has a red metal roof, just like ours..how coincidental, eh?

Is it cute, or what? We used to have a bird feeder with a nylon rope-like hanger, but the goofy squirrel chewed thru it...we know because we watched him do it!

We have had problems with the blue jays eating ALL the peanuts. Don't get me wrong, we like all our yard friends, but the peanuts are for the darn squirrel!! Hello!!

Sorry, no pics of our early brunch guests...but, while I was in the tub, all the dogs started raising cain and wouldn't quit. That usually signifies: the mailman, the UPS man, brick and mortar shop customers, but, NOOOOOOOOOOOO, not this morning. We had 2 lovely dun horses walking down our road outside our gate. We do live on a very busy farm to market road with 18 wheelers, logging trucks, farm equipment and all the idiots that cannot drive under 80 mph! We have horses and mini horses, so the duns crossed the road to visit the minis...meanwhile, big daddy headed out with a can of sweet feed to lure them into our front yard until the owners showed up. They did in just a few minutes, collected their charges and left. Short lived excitement for the mini stallion, lol!

Now I'm waiting for the earthbaby to come over, wahooo! Nothing like a chubby baby to put your life in perspective, eh? Love it.

Whereever you are in the world this weekend, I hope you celebrate just being able to be with your family. If you aren't able to be with your family, I pray you're safe and happy~~Elaine

Lolo....nuff said

2010-08-28T23:22:00.000-05:00

My bff Lo went back to work at place near my house. We worked together there for a few years. It was, without doubt, the best time I have had in my nursing career. Have you ever worked with someone you just meshed with...someone that KNEW what you were thinking before you thought it? Someone you would put your life in their hands? That's my bff Lolo. And when I found out she was the same age as my daughter, that just made it better. Kind of like working with your daughter in an objective way...if that makes sense. She lives a few hours from me and I don't get to see her often, so this is a bonus. She used to sleep here every Sunday, when we worked together, and eat dinner together with Big Daddy, then we would go back to work again. I hope she stops to see me in the morning. It is Sunday and we like to hold services, Church on the Porch. Good times.

Lolo's little friend Gracie Mae...I am babysitting...since Nov of last year, lol!

Signature blocks

2010-08-26T23:45:00.000-05:00

I went over to Terry's blog today and saw where she was collecting blocks, from other quilters, with their signatures on them. So I signed up and she sent an email back telling me that she was sending one to me! I have followed Terry since I found the blog world and admire her quilts alot! Her family has had some real upsets in the past year, but Terry has always landed on her little feet with a smile and grace. Go visit her blog, she is awesome...the kind of woman most of us strive to be, for real!


On another note, I went to visit my quilty friend. She is 82 or so and one of the most perky little women you would ever meet. I love listening to her, she never fails to surprise me with her quirky little comments. She quilts and embroideries and loves wrestling...4 nights a week. I had told her that I enjoy an occasional glass of wine with my dinner, she likes whiskey. She is worried about her treasures when she dies. Her glassware, porcelains, her framed REAL pictures, her quilts and the priceless embroideries she has done over the years. One of her daughters sold her paper doll collection for her and she grieves for them. It is so sad to see the grief and longing she has for dolls. I found that she continues to be drawn to them and when she ordered Dolly Days I knew what we had to do. The cover of the pattern is a quilt, but nooooooo, she wants something for little girls to play with. So I helped her come up with a way for that to happen, I hope.


I brought her some Timtex, Osnaburg and different variations of hook and loop tape. We are going to work on it next week, stay tuned, this could be fun!


Do you have an elder friend that lives alone? Have you ever just sat and listened to what they have to say? I enjoy my friend, so much. I don't think it really matters if we work on anything together. I am younger then her daughters, and I don't get exasperated with her ways and why she has a need to keep an advertisement from a quilt magazine subscription because she thinks the quilt pictured on the second page is really pretty. I get that. I love her quilts and she has a gob of them. Her eyesight is not what it used to be. Her hands and fingers tire easily so she doesn't put out the quilts like she used to. Her quilt lines are beginning to waver, not as straight as they were 20 years ago. We have a peer friendship. I take her as she is, because, thank you God, she takes me as I am! I am lucky to have her for a friend. If you ever get the opportunity to be-friend someone like her, run to it! You would be so surprised at how much joy you can get from such a relationship.


Now, go quilt something...Elaine
(none of the images are mine)

Summer is dragging on

2010-08-21T23:40:00.000-05:00

So I haven't found out if my sister, the fantabulous Georgie, has made any of the disappearing 4 patches yet. I hope so, these are fun. No sewing for me today,
the earth family came for an inservice in downsizing. Yep, we

downsized 8 lovely roosters to the freezer, via the chopping block. I fixed breakfast burritos for breakfast and told earthmama we would have a sort of vegan lunch since this may not be an appetite pleasing day. My sweet little city kinda girl said she was kinda hoping for chicken! Ya gotta love the attitude. So we roasted a bird....oh my sweet loving God, but it is so darn good that way! It was a different way for me to cook it. I saw a pic on someones blog and had to try it. I highly recommend it. I had my son cut the chicken open from the bottom of the breast all the way to the neck. Then he opened the bird, and pushed it down until it was nearly flat, that's the different part for me. I then shook coarse ground salt and pepper all over both sides and then rubbed it all over with olive oil and roasted on a rack @ 375 degrees until the wing popped free with minimal pressure. Unreal flavor. I would not have put the evoo first, just in case you're wondering if I didn't type that correct. I didn't want a ton of salt, so I did it my way. It was perfect. Very moist and tender, loved it, so did the kids. Big Daddy said he didn't east rooster....wht? Earthmama said it tastes like chicken...I love that girl! I also chose not to post pics of the "ordeal", don't want to scare the kids.

Have a great Sunday, I have sewing to do, Elaine

I also found that I can get 2, not one but 2 jelly rolls in a flat rate envelope. I am very excited about this. And you should be too, wahoo! I have several jelly rolls in my etsy shop, so if you want 2, one seriously cheap shipping price for you!! I can also get up to 8 yards of fabric, of most fabrics, in one envelope! Pop over, I am adding new stuff every few days. If you want more then 1 item, convo me so I can find the cheapest shipping price for you.

Just so you know

2010-08-16T10:26:00.000-05:00

Dear sister

The disappearing 4 patch is NOT my design, in any way. I happened to visit this quilting forum and found this awesome pattern in the tutorials...and fell in love with it. I knew as a beginner quilter that you might want to also make it. I may have touched on redundancy...ya think?...with the directions, sorry Georgie! It was not easy for me to follow the forum tutorial, so I assumed you might have difficulties like I did....there is that redundancy thing again! So, do you think the tutorial , that your thin, gorgeous sister did, is a bit heavy? I better pop a few charm packs in the mail to you, lol!

Check out my shop....I changed it around a bit...do you like the pic I took of my little boy? I love it! I need to find my heels, job interview tomorrow, yuck! Love you sister...

Disappearing 4 patch for my sister!

2010-08-16T02:29:00.000-05:00

Dear Georgie-Girl:
Here you go sister...a new pattern, just for you! I know you love the disappearing 9 patch...but, how about a 4 patch? Good, I'm glad you're intrigued, lol!

Look thru your 5" blocks until you find a bunch of lights and darks.
See the upper pic on the right? 2 dark patches and 2 light patches, sew them together, like the pic, press.

Now grab that shape cutter and center it on the seam line. I want to make 1 1/2" cuts, so I centered the ruler on the 1 1/2" slot. Now if you cut thru the 0 and the 3 slots, you will get the 1 1/2", from the center, on both sides...see it?

Now make 2 cuts, one of them in the #3 slot and the #0 slot. Lift your ruler, turn your mat half way around and do the same thing again...until you have 4 cuts.

This is what it looks like after the 4 cuts. Easy peasy so far.

If you're anything like me, you're going to go make a sandwich or go to bed before you finish this block. So, Just remember, turn the double logs...and keep your eye on that tricky little center 4 patch. If you can't remember how the strips match up...

...the center 4 patch matches up with the outside patches...see it sister? Yeah, the flower is correct, the block is brown, lol!

Now, start sewing the rows into sections with the 1/4" seam allowance. Once you get the 3 sections done, sew them together and you have finished...taa daa!

Now get busy sister, you have to make a bunch of them! When I am more awake, I'll figure out how many I want to make. So far, they are very addicting and go fairly quick.

Do you like this block? I found it on a new to me quilting site. I might have to get carried away and make a bundle or two...how about you?

Love, sister

soggy bottom flats quilting and stitching

The coolest Christmas gift ever!

Black Friday sale in my shop

Where's Elaine at...?

On Veteran's Day, we remember

Christmas 2011, we can make a difference!

Well, we did it...!

Here's my reason

The center block

I want you to meet Bee in my Bonnet

In between living....I love to quilt

Last of the pics

More for Jen

Does etsy give you fits?

We found some fabric!

Can you help me please?

Auditioning fabrics

Historical quilts

How are ya?

Christmas in July free shipping

Happy 4th of July

Spring babies and quilts

Free shipping until 31 May

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Free shipping continues, and...

Free shipping for the week

New French General in!

The new family

Yippeee...spring is coming!

Now I'm irritated

Spring is coming, wahoo!

The Goatherders Christmas

Busy, busy !

Sherbet Pips is almost out!

Sherbet Pips is in!

Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat goings on

***Cyber Monday***

Mail call and Heart blocks

The Secret Sisterhood of the Traveling Goats

Black Friday

Black Friday is here 20% off everything in my shop

The New Zealand tragedy

The funniest bumper sticker ever

'ello...Mum?

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat placed!

G'day....!

Are you domestic?

Check out this giveaway

Traveling goats spotted!

Come on down to Texas ya'll!

Old quilts

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat spotted!

Up-cycle this! or Playing along with Fee

A Traveling goat spotted leaving Australia

The Sisterhood is off and running..for real!

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat~~~another goat spotted!

The underground goat is spotted!

This is to good to pass up

The 4th Bloggers Quilt Festival

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat....needs one more please!

What our Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat is up to

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Goat roster

A little off track, but....

I'm baaaaccckk!!

Lets all play!

Something a bit different

French knots are so much fun!

Fun on the Farm

My progress

How is your stitchery/penny rug/or? coming along?

Starting to stitch

Penny rug sew along, choosing the design

penny rug sew along

How are your designs?

First things first

Penny rug sew along

Winner!

Presents in the mail~~~

More goodies for my giveaway

Still cutting circles for my giveaway

Cyber Monday