New Runner

I finished this on Tuesday night. I really have fun making these. This is for my mother-in-law, for her birthday.

sewing frenzy

Sew, I've been busy! I got so inspired from my class on Saturday, that I complete these 2 table runners yesterday. I also got a 3rd well on its way. Inspiration is funny that way, when it takes hold, I must create!
These 2 use the same fruit and bird print with different accent batiks. I love putting the patterns together to see where they go!
Once I complete the 3rd table runner, I am going to start an Amy Butler Sophia bag for my mother-in-law's Christmas gift. She loved the one I made myself, so, it is only natural I make one for her.
Anyway, after dinner, it is back to my sweat shop for some more stitchery!

Constructive Saturday.

Did you happen to catch this issue of Threads?
I did, and fell in love with the cool tote bag on the cover. Not only did I want to make the bag, I wanted this exact bag!
I searched for the fabric, but did not find anything close.
So what to do?
Well, I actually got to see the exact bag and take the class to make it with the bag's designer, Mary Ray!
The class was held in the Boone, NC location of Sew Original.
Mary is an informative, supportive, knowledgeable and delightful teacher. I learned a lot from her and feel really fortunate to have gotten into this class. See her Craftstylish blog here.






Here are the photos of my finished bag:What I love about the bag: the cute pleated pockets on either side (love the way Mary showed this!); the bias trim; the completely finished edges inside and out; the way the bag can be custom designed differently each time it is made. I added a magnetic snap inside once I got home. I made my version 3 inches taller in order to hold files and papers. I will make the next one smaller, going exactly by the pattern.

The Beach Boys

In a mountain field, by a gently flowing stream, under the light of an almost-full moon, Hubby and I were astounded by the Beach Boys! Yes, I know they are in their Golden Years, but their voices, showmanship and musical abilities were in top form last night. They performed for 2 hours without an intermission and they hit the harmonies and high notes all night long! True artists, performers and professionals, we thoroughly enjoyed the show.

I am taking a vacation day today. I am cleaning up my studio and trying to bring some order to that chaos. I am taking a class in Boone tomorrow and will post a photo of the finished result.

Happy Friday and Go Michael Phelps & Team USA!

Advice to the world

Sometimes we need to be reminded of our place in the world. The fact is, outside of our families (in many cases, outside of ourselves!) no one really cares about each of us. We are on our own.

That is a hard lesson and a sobering thought. I was fortunate to have come from a loving and supportive family. I have (hopefully) been as loving and supportive to my son. But, once you are out there in the big, bad world, no one really cares about you as an individual. You have to learn to care for yourself. This is VERY IMPORTANT!!!! You must care for yourself!

So, here are don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements:

1. Be Impeccable With Your Word
Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

2. Don't Take Anything Personally
Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering. (This is very tough for me)

3. Don't Make Assumptions
Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life. (Also a tough one, until you remember agreement #2)

4. Always Do Your Best
Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret. (Do your best, then let it go; don't over analyze and remember agreement #2)

Read more here.

I keep a copy of these posted by my desk.

These are great lessons to live by. Each of us needs to find our own validation as individuals. This must come from with in. We are each, beautiful, magnificent beings. Please do not glean your own self-worth from the actions of others. Don't over think, or over analyze the actions of others. It is not all about you. (Sometimes this is a blessing in disguise!)

If you can keep these 4 thoughts in your mind, and live each moment to your best, then you will be successful.
And if you are my son, remember, your mom will ALWAYS love you!

On to something brighter

Yes, my baby has left the nest to return to school. And yes, tomorrow is his 19Th birthday. What did I give him? A freaking HUGE quilt:
Top is the front, it is called "Pickety Stix". It is foundation pieced panels sashed with an Acid Green Marble. The bottom is the back. I pieced it with leftovers. It is approximately 90"x 90" and I quilted it on my Viking Sapphire.

Next subject: I received my Chinese visa today for my trip in one month. Starting to get excited! I need to practice on my Chinese language CDs this weekend.

quiet

The man-cub is back at school for pre-season camp. After him being here all summer, the house sure seems empty and quiet.
I hope he has a GREAT sophomore year. I know the team is going to do well. I also know that after a few days, the husband and I will get used to just the 2 of us again. But right now.....