tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50010414191376250312024-03-12T22:21:42.886-04:00My Old Quilting SoulMy Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-63699265980262924362014-03-19T07:27:00.000-04:002014-03-19T07:27:42.240-04:00MIA<div style="text-align: center;">
Well hello! It has certainly been a while! I wish I could say that my absence has been full of crafty fun, but unfortunately it hasn't.</div>
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Work slammed me pretty hard in the last half of the year and then we were slammed with personal problems. My husband's cancer came out of remission and attacked his adrenal glands. We found out over Thanksgiving and my husband was put on medicine to help until his surgery to remove the glands. Life certainly has not been easy since November! Husband's med's made him continually feel sick which impacted him both at work and at home. Luckily, his work was very understanding and lightened his work load significantly so on days that he just couldn't make it in, he was able to work a bit at home. He wasn't allowed to do anything physical (not even take out the garbage-<i> I know!</i>) and that hit him hard since we are relatively active people. His surgery was the first week in February and I am not exaggerating when I say that it was the worst 2 days of my life. It lasted 7 hours, finally finishing up at 11pm. The glands were larger than expected (though they were expecting quite large) and they had to "scrape" them off of other organs because they had essentially cemented together. One was the size of a cantaloupe and the other a volleyball. How they fit in his body, I will never know.</div>
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He was in the ICU afterwards on a respirator and looked like nothing I have ever seen. We weren't allowed to stay at the hospital (unless we sat by the exit doors in the lobby), so we were sent home. Thankfully, the nurse did let me stay for a couple of hours until he settled down enough to sleep, so I got home around 4 that morning. I was back shortly after and eventually he was put in a specialty unit where he stayed for 8 days, 7 of those he wasn't allowed to eat. The staff let me stay with him, probably more for their own sake than for my own since he needed something every 45 minutes. He couldn't even move his arms to reach the mouth swabs. Sleep was just not an option. On the fourth day I was so tired that I crashed between 12 and 3 that night and did not hear him calling my name. I was so freaked out that I couldn't hear him I didn't sleep for the rest of the night. It was nothing I was expecting.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Richard's right gland (1.75 lbs)</td></tr>
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When he came home it was a bit better, mostly at night. He was only up a few times and because he wasn't hooked up to 4 different machines, it was much quieter and I could hear him a lot easier. He was using a walker for a couple of weeks and needed to nap after each time he would get up and move, but it now significantly better. He can go up and down stairs and walk continuously for 40 minutes, walker-free. His incision is finally healing (it is about a 12" incision from his rib cage vertically to just past his belly button) and we are in the stages of adjusting his medicine. The doctors believed they got everything during the surgery and we had a few check-up appointments and haven't seen any signs. They are concerned that it will attack his para-thyroid, but there is nothing to do but wait. I am hoping by summer he can ride his jet skiis, but I am doubtful. He has not gotten the ok to lift anything heavier than a milk jug, so I know it will still be a long way to go.</div>
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I thought that I would be able to start making a string quilt that has been on the books after I moved him home, but there was just no time. I think soon it will be started, though! My house is looking back to normal after appearing to be a pseudo-hospital with mountains of gauze and medical tape, oddly arranged furniture and walking aids. I did have a baby shower last weekend and I managed to make a little minky blanket. It was super fast and easy, but I think that a baby will love it. I made it the week before the surgery when Richard was at work one day and I was home. I am sure glad that I did because I would have never gotten it done otherwise.<br />
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I hope that your near-year has been full of happiness and good tidings! Perhaps the next time you hear from it won't be too long!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-58917620355582325392013-06-30T09:02:00.002-04:002013-06-30T09:02:29.790-04:00Follow my blog with BloglovinI may be late to the game here..<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5211761/?claim=fga7f2yv66k" target="_blank">Follow me</a>My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-34998327056895890352013-06-29T09:56:00.001-04:002013-06-29T09:56:45.057-04:00Another shower you say?<div style="text-align: center;">
Sure did. I can't believe how little time I have had this year and because of it I've only made one quilt for Richard's cousin who is expecting twins. I really, really like how it came out. The funny thing is that it matches her nursery perfectly. I couldn't even believe it because the shower was a gender reveal. I chose to use a bungle jungle (moda) charm pack because of all the bright gender neutral colors. I was fortunate enough to find a bolt of happy go lucky at an Amish quilt shop up near Grandpa's cabin and it matched the charms perfectly. Made the quilt, really, I think. </div>
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Richard's cousin sent me a picture and it almost looks like it could have come with the sheet set! </div>
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I quilted it with little squares, but since I didn't have much time I did it sparingly and used straight lines to compensate. It matched really well and wasn't too overwhelming on my home machine.</div>
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But wait! There's more! Yesterday Stacy had an emergency c-section done to deliver her twins 9 weeks early. Elliot and Olivia weigh in at 3lbs 8oz and 3lbs 4oz respectively. So far they are doing well and are resting in the NICU. Mom and Dad were able to feed and change them yesterday and are hoping to cuddle them today. Can't wait to meet them!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-5301308128557386602013-06-24T20:09:00.003-04:002013-06-24T20:09:47.811-04:00Sometimes my work is conducive for working on my hobbies<div style="text-align: center;">
Days like that don't happen often, but it did today. And you know what? It was fantastic so I thought I'd share it with you <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(though I better be quick because it's almost my bedtime!)</span></i>.</div>
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We have 7 sites that take an hour each so there is a lot of down time. Since it didn't rain (much) I brought along some stitchery! This was a set I inherited from my Grandma when she passed away last summer and I told my sister that I would finish it up and make a quilt for her one-day baby. What a nice time to be able to work on it :)</div>
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Hope you stayed cool today!</div>
<br />My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-71796155931234890382013-06-21T06:36:00.000-04:002013-06-21T06:36:49.980-04:00Amy's Baby Shower :)<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, time sure has flown by.</div>
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My cousin's baby shower went really well! My Aunt and I make a pretty darn good pair I would say to host a shindig. I brought the decor and dessert and she provided the lunch and the location. I love the way my quilt came out and I definitely rendered my pregnant cousin speechless with my gift. I ordered custom bibs for each holiday in addition to the quilt I made. I can't wait to see them on the little guy who is due within the month! Now I just have to make basically the same quilt for my sister and I since it came out so nice. (<i>No, I'm not pregnant!) </i>Want to see some pictures?</div>
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Amy's shower was a "monster" theme. Her nursery is the peek-a-boo monster set so I matched theme to that. I had this fantastic cake topper made and put it on top of a 6" tiered cake. I also made those fantastic monster cupcakes so mom an dad could have the cake for themselves. They were a <i>huge</i> hit!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love! And actually kind of easy to make!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic monster watermelon my cousin made for me!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">monster cookie favors</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening my gift :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dad, mom, me</td></tr>
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<br />My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-35210253764601025942013-04-22T08:09:00.000-04:002013-04-22T08:09:15.883-04:00The top is pieced<div style="text-align: center;">
What a crazy weekend this has been, and I can't believe that I actually got any sewing done. Though, I have to admit, I didn't exercise at all. </div>
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On Friday we had a worker here to patch all of those (13) rod holes we found in our basement ages ago, as well as 2 vertical cracks. While he was working away I started making a cupcake/cake stand for my cousin's baby shower. It's funny- with things like this I have better luck searching pinterest rather than google. It turned out pretty good- I'm just hoping it stays together!</div>
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After that we went to a birthday party for a neighbor where I (shockingly) stayed up until 12:30! I know, I know, <i>party animal</i>.</div>
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Sherwin Williams was having an amazing sale so we decided to pick up some paint to patch places in a bathroom as well as paint for the basement wall we destroyed. They have this nifty color matching machine which has worked well for us in the past and was able to match perfectly the basement color, but the purple for the bathroom was a disaster. I ended up going home and cutting a piece of drywall out to be able to get a better match, which still didn't work. Thankfully they were able to manually guess what needed to be added and we got something that is quite close. I haven't had the chance to paint anything with it, but my fingers are crossed. I really don't want to repaint the whole thing because they have yet another wall paper border in it and I actually like it. </div>
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We also put on a trailer hitch on our Saturn, cleaned the mess in the basement, crafted for the baby shower some more, did the laundry, went to Home Depot 3 times, practiced making monster cupcakes, washed the floors, and sewed. </div>
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I am sooooo happy with this baby blanket! I wish it were mine. I need to see about duplicating it for myself and my sister because it is adorable. See?</div>
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I'm going to put a dark brown binding on it. I just want to squeeze it! It is going off to the quilter this week, hopefully! Now I need to work on a couple for twins next.</div>
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I hope you all had a lovely weekend!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-41080240434626700272013-04-08T09:30:00.001-04:002013-04-08T09:30:06.834-04:00I'm famous!<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, kind of. Our project was featured in the local paper :)</div>
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You should probably read <a href="http://www.voicenews.com/articles/2013/04/05/news/doc515efe2d75b33628466835.txt?viewmode=3" target="_blank">about it</a> and see me in my lovely orange gumby suit!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-29788606653917725742013-04-07T13:44:00.000-04:002013-04-07T13:44:48.361-04:00I'm on a roll now... ?<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey!</div>
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Look what I made this weekend!</div>
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I'm adding these to my panel quilt. I'm <i>so</i> happy with them, I just want to hang them on the wall. Since this is the quilt of firsts, I saw this block and thought why not? They match well with what I put on the top so I went to work. Yesterday when I was creating the the first two, I found a reason to leave them alone. They took me like, 3 hours. And they are only 6" blocks. Ugh.</div>
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Looking for a quick 6" block to shimmy up to it, I thought a 9 patch would be good. I put some pieces on the floor for appearance sake and called in the husband. He hated it. Ugh again. So then I decided to throw in the towel and make 2 more stars. Good news! The rabbits went so much faster since I knew what I was doing. <i>So thankful</i>. </div>
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Now as the husband puts it, I'm back to staring. At this.</div>
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He also asked me if I was aware that everything wasn't the same size. Haha, no sweets, I did not realize that this was a puzzle. Thanks for pointing that out :)</div>
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This week is our first full week of field work and to be honest, I'm kind of dreading it. One of the gear types we are dropping this year just is not conducive to the strength of the current and I had to cut lines and leave an anchor on the bottom of the river last week in an extremely dangerous situation. We were all, literally, shaking in our boots. I hope we don't have to do it again, but you just never know what the boss will say.</div>
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I hope you all have a lovely week!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-69708691320709423332013-04-01T07:54:00.002-04:002013-04-02T07:37:10.855-04:00Making Progress<div style="text-align: center;">
So this weekend I sat down again and finally tackled more of this paneled baby blanket I am creating. It went well, surprisingly! Though I have learned I hate panels. Too much math and creativity is involved. My cousin better love this :)</div>
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So far I have put together the top three main blocks with some spacer blocks, and added a border to all of the blocks in the panel. I decided my next "spacer series" is going to be a row of hourglass blocks. This row is going to be duplicated beneath the block with the boat as well. I asked husband's opinions of color scheme here, so I hope they look good when I put them in. I finished 8 or 10 while husband was watching b-ball and have another 6 or 4 to go. Then I need to make a couple blocks to saddle up to the side of the boat panel and decide what to do from there. <br />
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It has been interesting though, since every block I've made thus far has been a new one for me. I made 4 pinwheels and I am happy with 2 which went into the top section of the quilt. The two I need to make next are some version of the Ohio Star and a Nine-Patch.</div>
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I have another crazy busy week ahead of me so I know I won't have time to touch this again until maybe Saturday afternoon. Field work this year will, most certainly, eat my life. When that's not eating my nights, boot camp will. Or it will be a combination of the two. Which was a ridiculously stupid idea I had thinking I should do some heavy lifting all day then go to Miss Killer's class. Only two more weeks of it though, then I can just keep to field work. </div>
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My mom is also coming to visit this Friday. Mostly because I'm forcing her too. She is a putzer, even with taxes, so I scheduled her appointment with my tax man and am going with her Friday to be sure she gets them done and in on time. After that, I have no idea how I will entertain her. Hopefully the weather will be nice and we can dink around in the yard :)</div>
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I hope you all had a nice weekend!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-30457056810831802722013-03-14T10:30:00.002-04:002013-03-14T10:30:53.283-04:00Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming..<div style="text-align: center;">
You know Dori from Finding Nemo? I hear her serenading me on daily basis. I don't think I'm crazy, but this song has been me for the start of this year. So much has happened between now and January that, when I was thinking about it yesterday, I really had no idea what went on. I don't even have photo documentation for most things, so really, my chaotic life must not be very fascinating. Here are some things that have been occupying me lately:</div>
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Last year I kind of dropped the ball on Richard's birthday. He didn't get a gift from me. I was supposed to get him the corn hole game since he enjoys playing it during the summer. I wanted to get him custom ones, but I just wasn't happy with my options at the time. Well, a year later, I had them made. They are awesome though, so I don't feel all that bad for the delay. It took me a long time to find someone who was fantastic at woodworking and gave me a good price.</div>
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This is our new <strike>huge monstrosity</strike> garbage disposal after the old one decided it was time to simply dump all of the water that came out of the tap directly through the bottom of the sink into the cabinet. That was fun. Husband picking the biggest most highly rated disposal he could- that we had to order and wait for shipping? Also<i> loads</i> of fun since I was out of a sink for 6 days. We also had sump pump issues, roof vent issues, and basement leak issues. Some are better, some are still works in progress.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garbage disposal disaster, 7 days later.</td></tr>
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He did redeem himself, however. After I cleaned the daylights out of the cabinet I wanted to tile over it in order to easily clean future leaks. Being just like a man, I was going to do it myself, but then husband said "Why don't I do this and you can do other things?" <i>What? Oh, ok... um... I'll just... go over here and um... vacuum while I contemplate what just happened. </i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks for the idea, pinterest.</td></tr>
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Then I went to West Virginia for work. I helped teach people how to ID larval fish, which is so captivating I know you want to hear all about it. Perhaps another time.. I didn't take any good "pretty" pictures. It was mostly food. </div>
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And also this one of a random jewelry store inside of a Kroger. That also sells furniture. Who does that?</div>
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Then I told Richard I had enough with at least one shelf of our pantry and I was going to buy a pull out drawer for it. And he just said, "ok." So we went and bought it... then he put it in. In the<i> same</i> <i>morning</i>. I think that my husband is turning into a mutant.</div>
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We had family over for Richard's Grandpa's 88th birthday! I forced pictures on them. Lesson learned from not taking enough of my own grandparents.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_UcvmEHIE4/UUHAsjAMliI/AAAAAAAAA_0/a51SYC9t6Fo/s1600/Morleys+Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_UcvmEHIE4/UUHAsjAMliI/AAAAAAAAA_0/a51SYC9t6Fo/s320/Morleys+Bday.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bottom left: FIL, Grandpa, Husband</td></tr>
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I also cooked a lot. Way more than these photos. I'm vastly expanding my recipe collection, again, thanks to pinterest.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iR1mbAMXVNE/UUHa0a-vXrI/AAAAAAAABAI/LyObNi_32co/s1600/cooking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iR1mbAMXVNE/UUHa0a-vXrI/AAAAAAAABAI/LyObNi_32co/s320/cooking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm in my 9th week of boot camp. No pictures. Just imagine a giant hot mess. That's what I look like every Tuesday and Thursday. </div>
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We bought a new (used) Saturn Vue for Richard to replace his aging Grand Prix. You never know when you are going to need a family car!</div>
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Annie has been getting into various shenanigans </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tgz94wIDXyg/UUHe7fuyt1I/AAAAAAAABAg/BiXXVG6lTcQ/s1600/Annie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tgz94wIDXyg/UUHe7fuyt1I/AAAAAAAABAg/BiXXVG6lTcQ/s320/Annie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We start field work next week! It's crazy at work and will continue until December. Thanks, climate change!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcfLdyHirOo/UUHbhB95A2I/AAAAAAAABAQ/gsIr0vuxlRc/s1600/pushing+ice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcfLdyHirOo/UUHbhB95A2I/AAAAAAAABAQ/gsIr0vuxlRc/s320/pushing+ice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(not me)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwnq-cL-F_k/UUHbn9LFH2I/AAAAAAAABAY/NqoBg2NiGeI/s1600/Recording+field+tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwnq-cL-F_k/UUHbn9LFH2I/AAAAAAAABAY/NqoBg2NiGeI/s320/Recording+field+tags.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(me)</td></tr>
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Tomorrow I'm getting my taxes done, going to the dentist, and visiting my pregnant cousin. Not too much longer until July and her little boy will be here! Hopefully Sunday I will get more than 1 block done on her quilt since I'm running out of time :)</div>
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I hope you are having a lovely day!</div>
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My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-66212470861843787272013-03-10T19:50:00.001-04:002013-03-10T19:50:23.045-04:00How Stacey approaches panels.I haven't sat down and worked on a quilt since December. It's mid-March. Wow. Here is how it went:<br />
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Step 1: Pull out fabric. Iron, realize you need to pre-wash. Momentarily give up and go to kitchen to find baked goods.<br />
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Step 2: Throw fabric into washing machine. Go back to sewing room. Observe disaster from the last project. Contemplate adding current project to the top to create a nice layering effect of clutter.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-epbbHzVtqQk/UT0ab7epeSI/AAAAAAAAA9w/9CZoTTVcZFc/s1600/IMG_0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-epbbHzVtqQk/UT0ab7epeSI/AAAAAAAAA9w/9CZoTTVcZFc/s320/IMG_0155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 3: Give up and start cleaning. But not really cleaning. More like putting crap in totes and line the room with them.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U0zFy_zDqXo/UT0ahPYj4mI/AAAAAAAAA94/7Plom8RgJzg/s1600/IMG_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U0zFy_zDqXo/UT0ahPYj4mI/AAAAAAAAA94/7Plom8RgJzg/s320/IMG_0156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Step 4: Get fabric from wash. Iron again. Think about cleaning that dirty fish tank.<br />
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Step 5: Stare panel down. Get intimated Walk back to kitchen for baked goods. Begin making a fresh batch of cookies.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awR-s2arL0Y/UT0aQRbhS1I/AAAAAAAAA9o/saTC6iXgOZA/s1600/IMG_0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awR-s2arL0Y/UT0aQRbhS1I/AAAAAAAAA9o/saTC6iXgOZA/s320/IMG_0154.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Step 6: Return to sewing room. Stare at panel. Get out cutting mat and position panel on mat. Click blade protector on rotary cutter back and fourth. Set down blade. Return to kitchen. Stare at kitchen mess. See what I can get into for lunch.<br />
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Step 7: Go back to sewing room and attack panel with vigor. Stare at pieces.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJa1pDx_FhY/UT0apE3FPGI/AAAAAAAAA-A/7IzqF0XAcBQ/s1600/IMG_0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJa1pDx_FhY/UT0apE3FPGI/AAAAAAAAA-A/7IzqF0XAcBQ/s320/IMG_0157.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Step 8: Google how to make blocks that were picked out since I've forgotten since I chose them. Get distracted on pintrest. Eat a cookie.<br />
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Step 9: Go grocery shopping.<br />
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Step 10: Come home, stare in sewing room. Unload groceries. Start prepping for dinner.<br />
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Step 11: Sew one block as a test. Be pretty pleased and quit for the day.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMU7FmN1PFE/UT0bKGXnkcI/AAAAAAAAA-I/VkkJwdK4Y44/s1600/IMG_0180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMU7FmN1PFE/UT0bKGXnkcI/AAAAAAAAA-I/VkkJwdK4Y44/s320/IMG_0180.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I can finally say that I've started my cousin's baby blanket! And by the way, it's a boy and the shower is mid-May. Which means I have two months to make this thing. Hmm..My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-39542529863790407172013-01-22T17:51:00.000-05:002013-01-22T17:51:15.659-05:00Baby Blankets<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh my. So you know I have to make a baby blanket for my cousin. Well, I found out this weekend that one of Richard's cousins is also pregnant. With twins. Um..... yay!(?) Now I have to make three quilts! Lord help me get them done!</div>
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For the twins' quilt I think that I'm going to make two <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/02/stacked-coins-baby-quilt.html" target="_blank">stacked coins quilts</a>. Or maybe this <a href="http://quiltingintherain.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainy-days-quilt.html" target="_blank">rainy days quilt</a>. Or even possibly this <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2010/12/finito-storytime-squares-quilt-in-far-far-away-ii/" target="_blank">charm quilt</a>. I really, really, <i>really</i> like <a href="http://www.hawthornethreads.com/fabric/designer/doohikey_designs/life_in_the_jungle/life_in_the_jungle_in_blue" target="_blank">life in the jungle</a> and it is gender neutral so it would be perfect to make ahead. I'd really like to make it out of precuts since it is just so much easier, so the rainy days quilt has a disadvantage there. We will see :)</div>
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So I've been trying out a lot of new recipes lately since I've discovered greek yogurt, wheat germ and milled flax. They are very interesting, versatile, and healthy! One that I thought was interesting was a <a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2012/07/strawberry-greek-yogurt-banana-bread.html" target="_blank">strawberry greek yogurt banana bread</a>. Well, I technically made muffins and substituted in 1/4 c flax and 1/4 c whole wheat flour for 1/2 c AP flour. And you know what? Two of them are only 120 calories! Man. My mind was blown because muffins are taboo. They are better the second day since they have sweetened up for some reason. Next time I'm going to chop up the strawberries really small because they kind of leave spots mushy in the bread. See how pretty they are?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_bcSzl55b4/UP8XAR9U2xI/AAAAAAAAA8A/0PpzGi2d3_8/s1600/IMG_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_bcSzl55b4/UP8XAR9U2xI/AAAAAAAAA8A/0PpzGi2d3_8/s320/IMG_0096.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raw</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eirqZJfBxGM/UP8XB_1T1SI/AAAAAAAAA8I/6GjnHSQPYPI/s1600/IMG_0098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eirqZJfBxGM/UP8XB_1T1SI/AAAAAAAAA8I/6GjnHSQPYPI/s320/IMG_0098.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked!</td></tr>
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Now I'm off to body boot camp with my nicely strapped in fitness mat! I hope you have all had a lovely week!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-21241395972404629502013-01-19T16:44:00.001-05:002013-01-24T14:35:07.929-05:00Yoga Mat Strap Tutorial<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to bring my own mat to body boot camp. I don't have a strap for it because I've always used it at my house and never cared if it unrolled. Now I need a strap and instead of buying one <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">($5 to $20!)</span></i>, I decided to make my own. Now I'm a trendy lady at the gym :)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's How:</span><br />
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Materials:<br />
1 strip 5" x WOF<br />
2 strips 5" x 28"<br />
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<li>(This is for wrapping around your mat and making a velcro closure. I suggest measuring your mat before you cut this to ensure enough length. See note below)</li>
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Coordinating Thread<br />
Velcro strip<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ViiE7H-7RBk/UPqsCmcdO2I/AAAAAAAAAx4/Fpiq83Me_qY/s1600/IMG_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ViiE7H-7RBk/UPqsCmcdO2I/AAAAAAAAAx4/Fpiq83Me_qY/s320/IMG_0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measure your mat for the smaller strips</td></tr>
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*Note: I have a large, fluffy mat for weight lifting and more back support, not a thin yoga mat. My strip will be longer than yours if you have a thin mat. Be sure to measure around your mat and account for finished seams and velcro overlap. I also wanted a more adjustable closure since I don't always roll it tightly.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YJvJD_89Tw0/UPqsDI920kI/AAAAAAAAAyA/clymcR0A2_4/s1600/IMG_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YJvJD_89Tw0/UPqsDI920kI/AAAAAAAAAyA/clymcR0A2_4/s320/IMG_0045.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My three pieces. I'm only using one fabric choice.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Working with the long strip:</span><br />
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This strip will be inserted into the sandwich made by the two smaller strips. If you want to make a finished seam, feel free (ie, wrong sides together and then turning it right side out). I'm not going to in this tutorial.<br />
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1. Fold the edges in a half inch and press. I'm not super great at this, so bare with me.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-74hMxiyTuws/UPqs8N-yiLI/AAAAAAAAAyM/hBMY02jdWks/s1600/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-74hMxiyTuws/UPqs8N-yiLI/AAAAAAAAAyM/hBMY02jdWks/s320/IMG_0046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I started with the long sides and then folded the ends. The ends on this strip don't have to be perfect because it will be inserted into the middle of the two smaller strips.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j_1bZLOSySM/UPqs90O7euI/AAAAAAAAAyU/Ms8kABuJKRU/s1600/IMG_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j_1bZLOSySM/UPqs90O7euI/AAAAAAAAAyU/Ms8kABuJKRU/s320/IMG_0047.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ignore the bow. Try for a straight line if you can manage.</td></tr>
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2. Once you have your edges pressed, fold the strip in half, hot-dog style. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKJeuxlswXA/UPqtAD8ZeSI/AAAAAAAAAyc/Iu0z41czqvs/s1600/IMG_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKJeuxlswXA/UPqtAD8ZeSI/AAAAAAAAAyc/Iu0z41czqvs/s320/IMG_0050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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3. To give the strap more stability, I added in some interface. If you don't need or want this stiffness you can skip over this part. A lot of people use fusible interfacing. I didn't. I cut a strip of interface ~ 1 7/8" (because my folded strip is 2" and I didn't want it to interfere with the fold lines) and slipped it inside of the creases. This held it well. If you have fusible, cut the same size strip and fuse the interfacing to the fabric where I did. Follow the manufacturers instructions.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u5UfawwG808/UPqvGyY2zxI/AAAAAAAAA0A/e7mFLorYaWk/s1600/IMG_0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u5UfawwG808/UPqvGyY2zxI/AAAAAAAAA0A/e7mFLorYaWk/s320/IMG_0052.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is optional</td></tr>
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4. Pin your strip together. Mine was pretty stiff so I only needed a few pins to hold it, but more certainly never hurts. Sew along all edges of your strip. If you want to ad design, give it another seam for fun. I'm in it for speed, so I'm not going to.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Hn5YAx94Hw/UPquY3B6ycI/AAAAAAAAAzo/BlZP9bwFNZg/s1600/IMG_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Hn5YAx94Hw/UPquY3B6ycI/AAAAAAAAAzo/BlZP9bwFNZg/s320/IMG_0057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2TEraPC8Ow/UPquaO9nAeI/AAAAAAAAAzw/XeshxC777yo/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2TEraPC8Ow/UPquaO9nAeI/AAAAAAAAAzw/XeshxC777yo/s320/IMG_0058.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turning the corner</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
When you turn the corner, stop the desired distance from the edge. For example, I was using ~ 1/8" seam so I stopped sewing ~1/8" from the edge. Life the presser foot with the needle down, pivot your fabric strip, drop the presser foot and keep moving. It is important to note that the closer to the edge you are the smaller the gap will be on the non-crease side of your strip. So, a 1/4" seam will give you more... floppy fabric... if that makes any sense.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Working with the smaller strip:</span><br />
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5. Follow steps 1 through 3. You should now have one long strap that is finished and two small strips that are pressed.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d35N4eyYq38/UPqtCfFQ1cI/AAAAAAAAAyk/0gsAJ4CZh-Q/s1600/IMG_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d35N4eyYq38/UPqtCfFQ1cI/AAAAAAAAAyk/0gsAJ4CZh-Q/s320/IMG_0048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Assembly:</span><br />
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6. Now you are going to start putting your strips together. If your fabric is directional, you may want to lay it out on top of your mat to ensure you will sew the fabric the way you like. Locate the center of one small strip (length-wise) and the center of your long strip (width wise). Make sure that your opening (non-crease side) of your small strip is point up towards your long strip.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SkDFE4tuAU/UPsDHU3mgGI/AAAAAAAAA0s/2YH3xcCj1F8/s1600/IMG_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SkDFE4tuAU/UPsDHU3mgGI/AAAAAAAAA0s/2YH3xcCj1F8/s320/IMG_0054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pins are in the center of my strip</td></tr>
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7. Insert the end of the long strip into the small strip, aligning the center. Pin.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sC26M6CR4zc/UPsD2UAfPRI/AAAAAAAAA00/MgtypnYKHxo/s1600/IMG_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sC26M6CR4zc/UPsD2UAfPRI/AAAAAAAAA00/MgtypnYKHxo/s320/IMG_0055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Go ahead and pin the rest of the strip together.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCo5Dk_tw4k/UPsD-mW_nlI/AAAAAAAAA08/S-VcuKIDYYg/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCo5Dk_tw4k/UPsD-mW_nlI/AAAAAAAAA08/S-VcuKIDYYg/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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*Note: These ends are the ends to be concerned about matching perfectly, since you will see these, though they will be on the underside of your mat.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoIEuoSSofA/UPsHxreLc7I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/vGh-xovHcoo/s1600/8395410918_e5389ebcbf_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoIEuoSSofA/UPsHxreLc7I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/vGh-xovHcoo/s320/8395410918_e5389ebcbf_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had a little bit that hung over the edge, so I took my small scissors and snipped off a piece. This way when I sew it together, the finished result will look nicer. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzQnUohhHOk/UPsIGEQ6KeI/AAAAAAAAA2g/xpBYTaGFmuc/s1600/8394327051_b2a99f53fb_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzQnUohhHOk/UPsIGEQ6KeI/AAAAAAAAA2g/xpBYTaGFmuc/s320/8394327051_b2a99f53fb_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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8. Sew the entire way around the small strip, as you did with your long strip. Ensure that your long strip is tucked into your small strip and sew across.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsO22O-OGMI/UPsEUZtgIUI/AAAAAAAAA1E/q7ruKnPjshk/s1600/IMG_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsO22O-OGMI/UPsEUZtgIUI/AAAAAAAAA1E/q7ruKnPjshk/s320/IMG_0067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You will have some extra. Just roll it up and continue on your way.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtvyVBKNOoM/UPsEWKwPdpI/AAAAAAAAA1M/IbjauLo5q_o/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtvyVBKNOoM/UPsEWKwPdpI/AAAAAAAAA1M/IbjauLo5q_o/s320/IMG_0068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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9. When you come to the end of the long strip, back stitch to the beginning to strengthen the seam. Stitch forward over, and finish sewing around the strip.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LqPdUmqgM08/UPsEXu240OI/AAAAAAAAA1U/jzFC0EADIwU/s1600/IMG_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LqPdUmqgM08/UPsEXu240OI/AAAAAAAAA1U/jzFC0EADIwU/s320/IMG_0069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You should now have a strap that looks like this:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyzthfmddRQ/UPsHU4rSo8I/AAAAAAAAA2I/wZewc1Q7CSU/s1600/IMG_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyzthfmddRQ/UPsHU4rSo8I/AAAAAAAAA2I/wZewc1Q7CSU/s320/IMG_0065.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Fp-TNDcwgw/UPsG8DGrDRI/AAAAAAAAA2A/psnk_Yhpw-A/s1600/IMG_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Fp-TNDcwgw/UPsG8DGrDRI/AAAAAAAAA2A/psnk_Yhpw-A/s320/IMG_0064.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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10. Repeat steps 6 through 9 on the opposite end of your long strip. You should have a result like this:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpA03HVQYoQ/UPsIx7fdEbI/AAAAAAAAA2w/djNR52wyHz4/s1600/IMG_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpA03HVQYoQ/UPsIx7fdEbI/AAAAAAAAA2w/djNR52wyHz4/s320/IMG_0066.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Center, Pin, and Sew!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvQO1cJtZeI/UPsIoEVyjfI/AAAAAAAAA2o/qiT5BvJx98c/s1600/IMG_0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvQO1cJtZeI/UPsIoEVyjfI/AAAAAAAAA2o/qiT5BvJx98c/s320/IMG_0070.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Adding the velcro:</span><br />
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At this point I wrapped my strap back around my mat to make sure everything was going smoothly. I flipped it over to gauge the overlap. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rx_7wfQUOeQ/UPsIzxype4I/AAAAAAAAA24/_iDiK4LAEHQ/s1600/IMG_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rx_7wfQUOeQ/UPsIzxype4I/AAAAAAAAA24/_iDiK4LAEHQ/s320/IMG_0071.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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My mat had unrolled slightly from what I started with, but because I chose to have an approximate 4" overlap, this is totally fine. Desired actually.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iPsMSKSVyWI/UPsI1n3Sg4I/AAAAAAAAA3A/ZEUdlc4tGUg/s1600/IMG_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iPsMSKSVyWI/UPsI1n3Sg4I/AAAAAAAAA3A/ZEUdlc4tGUg/s320/IMG_0072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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11. Now you need to think about how you want your velcro attached. I wanted mine to have a large range of fastening options because I don't roll with the same consistency each time. To do this I placed two "fuzzy" pieces, length-wise and one "rough" piece width-wise. Pin velcro (bobby pins work well), one on the top side and the other on the bottom of the opposite side.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZUqNdUL5Uk/UPsI4UUDcuI/AAAAAAAAA3I/DKB7CpADLYw/s1600/IMG_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZUqNdUL5Uk/UPsI4UUDcuI/AAAAAAAAA3I/DKB7CpADLYw/s320/IMG_0073.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKBt96JW8m0/UPsMByY-rbI/AAAAAAAAA30/EpijE92hiJo/s1600/8395404504_1db6ba80f0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKBt96JW8m0/UPsMByY-rbI/AAAAAAAAA30/EpijE92hiJo/s320/8395404504_1db6ba80f0_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I chose to sew these on one at a time to reduce bulk. I started like this:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXXNn3m_j5U/UPsNCW_vbBI/AAAAAAAAA4A/jZmNGnntbTI/s1600/IMG_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXXNn3m_j5U/UPsNCW_vbBI/AAAAAAAAA4A/jZmNGnntbTI/s320/IMG_0076.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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12. Sew around the edges of your velcro. I back stitched for security. I would suggest not not using sticky velcro since you will probably end up ripping it off if you use your mat enough.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VOgjFiRcbsc/UPsN3sdixLI/AAAAAAAAA4s/T-6Ndivlv1s/s1600/IMG_0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VOgjFiRcbsc/UPsN3sdixLI/AAAAAAAAA4s/T-6Ndivlv1s/s320/IMG_0077.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I changed my thread color so that it was more invisible.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dv68-CPxZRE/UPsN50PtNKI/AAAAAAAAA40/kuu5xvxv1Fc/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dv68-CPxZRE/UPsN50PtNKI/AAAAAAAAA40/kuu5xvxv1Fc/s320/IMG_0078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is what it should look like after you have sewed on your three pieces (if you are mimicking my closure method). </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFmxjQ80IW4/UPsN8GTBAzI/AAAAAAAAA48/SgtWntC67tQ/s1600/IMG_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFmxjQ80IW4/UPsN8GTBAzI/AAAAAAAAA48/SgtWntC67tQ/s320/IMG_0079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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*Note: I am not concerned about how this thread pattern will show through my straps, though I did use a much more muted color so you couldn't see the stitch unless you really looked. If you are concerned about this, attach the velcro pieces to one side of the pressed hot-dog before assembling the straps together (before step 6). This will hide the seam lines. It may also involve more thinking on your part, so watch out.</div>
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13. Attach velcro to opposite side. I wrapped mine again, just in case! Make sure your shoulder strap doesn't turn on itself or you won't be a happy camper.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAjJTB_GIxc/UPsPJI_NzLI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/GA9HqjgXiHk/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAjJTB_GIxc/UPsPJI_NzLI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/GA9HqjgXiHk/s320/IMG_0081.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is what you will have when it is finished.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ih-DLPhMBh0/UPsPAXO14lI/AAAAAAAAA5o/lpKgBtq4G2E/s1600/IMG_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ih-DLPhMBh0/UPsPAXO14lI/AAAAAAAAA5o/lpKgBtq4G2E/s320/IMG_0082.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Wrap around your mat and enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lut1hD-W-j4/UPsPtBVy64I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/ArWIjsIzlHc/s1600/IMG_0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lut1hD-W-j4/UPsPtBVy64I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/ArWIjsIzlHc/s320/IMG_0083.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkGAAjA1ey4/UPsPvenQYxI/AAAAAAAAA6o/5moOC-03JWo/s1600/IMG_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkGAAjA1ey4/UPsPvenQYxI/AAAAAAAAA6o/5moOC-03JWo/s320/IMG_0086.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flKId7hP2d4/UPsPuYYccuI/AAAAAAAAA6g/cEhrsltJ9-U/s1600/IMG_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flKId7hP2d4/UPsPuYYccuI/AAAAAAAAA6g/cEhrsltJ9-U/s320/IMG_0084.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-27294176700993989022013-01-17T10:43:00.000-05:002013-01-17T10:43:26.117-05:00Hey! I made something!<div style="text-align: center;">
So I was pretty happy with myself for sitting down and sewing this weekend. I didn't have a ton of time, but I did manage to make this:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W6FqGKtT27w/UPga3JiU-0I/AAAAAAAAAwA/n7seegUCAu8/s1600/IMG_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W6FqGKtT27w/UPga3JiU-0I/AAAAAAAAAwA/n7seegUCAu8/s320/IMG_0041.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aePBF0-6Reg/UPga4EH4xyI/AAAAAAAAAwI/PHq-1Fk-6Gg/s1600/IMG_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aePBF0-6Reg/UPga4EH4xyI/AAAAAAAAAwI/PHq-1Fk-6Gg/s320/IMG_0042.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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It's a case for my cell phone so my purse won't kill it. I'm pretty happy with it other than the fact that I made it too big width wise. The <a href="http://fairyfacedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/12/last-minute-gift-idea-phone-cozy.html" target="_blank">tutorial</a> I followed used an iPhone and I have an android so I attempted to make it bigger to accommodate my larger screen. The problem was it didn't really give good finished dimensions to work backwards from, so I googled how big an iPhone was and then guessed from there. It gets the job done, and that's all that really matters. Plus I love my turtle and hedge hog (left overs from the little apples charm pack).</div>
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I also made a napkin. Yes, you read that correctly. <i>A</i> napkin. They apparently take a lot longer and are a little more finicky than I thought so I got impatient and left the room. One person next Christmas will have a nice napkin though :)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3qWQbuiS60/UPga5QrqKEI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/hHM4p-H4xDo/s1600/IMG_0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3qWQbuiS60/UPga5QrqKEI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/hHM4p-H4xDo/s320/IMG_0043.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This week I started a body boot camp class. It was obnoxious. I've been running 3 miles at an incline every day and have been incorporating some weight exercises after, as well as an ab routine. I thought I was doing pretty well and this class could help me overcome my plateau that I've hit. Well let me tell you, running 3 miles is apparently a cake walk compared to this. My instructor is the equivalent of a psychotic Jillian Michaels on steroids. I was dripping <i>(ew)</i> sweat within the first 5 minutes of class. I couldn't even believe it. At one point the entire class was bent over, panting, just watching the instructor do the move we were supposed to be mimicking I would be lying if I said I wasn't humored. It made me feel better that we were all in it together.</div>
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That was Tuesday. I have another class tonight. And I feel like I've been run over by a semi-truck. My abs, back, and shoulders are killing me. I am shaking in my boots for what is to come and praying that I don't look like a miserable idiot this evening. The good news is though, if the intensity keeps up I will probably end up crawling over this plateau on my hands and knees. Assuming I will be able to exercise this weekend. Here's to health!</div>
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<br />My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-22752718326409859522013-01-09T11:00:00.001-05:002013-01-09T11:00:19.798-05:00Mystery Block!<div style="text-align: center;">
Does anyone know what the name to this block is? I'd like to make it but I have no idea what it's called...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3Ur3I-XXac/UO2T-_sC_5I/AAAAAAAAAuo/lTZY5upr2HY/s1600/mystery+block1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3Ur3I-XXac/UO2T-_sC_5I/AAAAAAAAAuo/lTZY5upr2HY/s200/mystery+block1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-20589420072148144492013-01-08T14:13:00.000-05:002013-01-08T14:13:07.624-05:00Really, I will do something this weekend.<div style="text-align: center;">
Or at least I'm going to think about it really, really hard.</div>
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I just can't seem to sit myself down in front of the machine lately. I don't think I've touched anything since I've finished my MSU wall hanging. Mostly it was to let my thumb heal from all of the little pricks until I got a thimble for Christmas, but getting back to it has been tough!</div>
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Husband started his busy season so I've been doing a lot of running. I think I've already hit 15 miles since last Thursday and I took yesterday off. I'm back to it tonight though. I have another 8 lbs that I want off that is going to be super tough to shake so I want to stay motivated while the hubby is away to get a jump on it. I also signed up for a body boot class that starts next Tuesday. I'm hoping it doesn't kill me.</div>
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I did buy some fabric for napkins this weekend. I'm going to host my family's Christmas next year so I was going to pick some up on clearance, but they were still expensive! I thought I could make my own, and more of them, for that price! So I just got some nice fabric and hopefully they will be in my linen closet by Monday.</div>
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I'm also determined to get a start on my cousin's baby blanket this weekend. I pulled out the graph paper and the panel last night, so that's a start at least. I feel like I need a cheer team for this one since I have to design around the panel. I've been more occupied searching for baby shower invites. Bad, bad, bad!</div>
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Apparently I just need a good kick in the pants so pick something up. I will do it though. One day :)</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-73835776065261270232013-01-02T15:35:00.001-05:002013-01-02T15:35:30.738-05:00Remember the bad?<div style="text-align: center;">
Well here it is.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd-izi9D15s/UMnVAm87DPI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/-UJPUVh9g8Q/s1600/2012-12-09_10-15-15_118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd-izi9D15s/UMnVAm87DPI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/-UJPUVh9g8Q/s320/2012-12-09_10-15-15_118.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Looks like we will be remodeling our basement! Not exactly how I anticipated it happening, but at least we caught it before it got worse. This Friday someone will be out to take a peak and let us know how much it will cost to repair it. My uncle (who is amazingly awesome) said that he could help us rehang the drywall to save some cash. Without me asking. What a nice guy :)<br />
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So, it's 2013! Happy New Year everyone! I couldn't wait to put 2012 behind me and get on with 2013. So many bad things happened this year for so long that '13 will almost certainly be better! <br />
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Any-who, I've done exactly zero sewing since the last time I posted. I took some time off to spend with the hubby before his busy season started (today), so now I won't see him until February. I'm sleeping when he gets home and he's magically in bed when I leave in the mornings. The good news? I get to eat cereal and not have to make dinner for an entire month! It will definitely give me some good treadmill time in the evenings. And in my defense, I did <i>clean</i> my machine at least, thanks to craftsy. And I watched some <i>serious</i> how-to videos. I mean, that's almost like making something.<br />
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I hope you all had a lovely new year! Any resolutions?</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-43587339814680968352012-12-24T10:31:00.001-05:002012-12-24T10:31:21.557-05:00It's Christmas time!<div style="text-align: center;">
Merry Christmas Eve everyone!</div>
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Richard and I had our Christmas last night. Today we are going to head to my parents and have Christmas with them. Richard got me a new camera (since I've lost mine and have been using my phone since May. Oops) and thought that I should have it to take pictures of my Dad when he opens his quilt.</div>
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I had my mom over last weekend (?) and made lots of Christmas cookies! Since both of my Grandmas have passed away this year, we were going to miss our annual cookie plate. I think I'm going to keep this rolling with my mom every year. It was a lot of fun :)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9aIzeASaslc/UNhy3DOStJI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ySZnnYeiJLw/s1600/2012-12-20_09-43-52_616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9aIzeASaslc/UNhy3DOStJI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ySZnnYeiJLw/s320/2012-12-20_09-43-52_616.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhgUFp4r4fk/UNhy5qcx4HI/AAAAAAAAAtk/MJCe7MwlVFM/s1600/2012-12-20_09-44-02_149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhgUFp4r4fk/UNhy5qcx4HI/AAAAAAAAAtk/MJCe7MwlVFM/s320/2012-12-20_09-44-02_149.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Here is how I destroyed my Dad's quilt. The blue really doesn't look so bad in the picture, but it was horrible. Probably since I spent so much time and money on that stupid thing. Pam suggested that I get some fabric markers and paint over the blue. I did and the end result is OK. The right (center) corner is one that I painted over in the right picture. It is white, but it is also pretty stiff. I painted 4 out of 6 and left the other two because they were pretty light. I'm hoping he doesn't notice!</div>
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To keep the Sparty theme rolling I also made a wall hanging as a secret Santa present for one of Richard's cousins. I hope she likes it. She studied zoology and now works with the penguins at the Detroit Zoo. Richard said it was going to be the best gift out of them (and I really hope so). Basically, they all think I'm a country bumpkin, so I hope this isn't too.... crafty(?) for them. At my wedding shower I had to explain to them what "canning" was and then they all looked at me like I was outside of my mind. </div>
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I hope you have a very merry Christmas!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-75527848811842307202012-12-10T09:04:00.001-05:002012-12-10T09:04:06.944-05:00The Good, The Bad, and The Terrible.<div style="text-align: center;">
I tell you what, I am super pooped after this weekend. It was, basically, ridiculous.</div>
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The good? I finished my MSU quilt. See?</div>
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I loved it, was so happy with it. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Thanks USGS hand models.)</span></div>
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The bad? My house hates me. More to come.</div>
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The terrible? My MSU quilt hates me. I put it in the washing machine on Saturday morning, no big deal. Threw in some color catchers for safe measure. I pull it out and drape it over some chairs to dry. Then I see it. 6 white strips are blue. <b>OMG</b>. There's someone from best buy in my house talking to Richard so I back slowly away and start cleaning before I have a mental break down, since Christmas is only two weeks away. </div>
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It's the fat-quarter snowflake fabric I bought from a quilt shop. I would have never guessed that fabric would be a traitor! As soon as I find the rest of it, to the garbage can it will go. I spent the day alternating between trying to avoid it to preserve my sanity and fixing it so I didn't feel like my heart was ripped out. I found synthrapol at a quilt shop about 45 minutes from me. The closest one, and they are closing! Horrible. Since I've started quilting I have seen 3 shops go out in my general radius and I feel terrible every time. </div>
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I took it to a laundromat and used the synthrapol but I couldn't figure out how to work the giant washer so that it would give hot water, because of course they are not fancy and you can't pick your settings. Great. It still came out with 6 blue strips. I brought it home, nearly defeated. Richard rallied me and we tried scalding hot water in the bathtub. That was terrifying because green water was everywhere. I abandoned ship after about 5 minutes and threw it back in the washer to rinse with about a box of color catchers. We pulled it out and as a last ditch effort we grabbed a tide-to-go pen. It lightened it, but not enough. It took a whole pen per strip and it's still blue. Now, I'm defeated. Pam said I could rip them out and reverse applique new strips in. I can barely think about it, but I know I need to make a decision swiftly. </div>
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On Sunday, Richard dragged me out to find a Christmas tree. I used to love finding Christmas trees. Get all pumped up with adrenaline, name them even. Now I dread it. It's cold and they are never good enough for Richard. And it's seems to always be raining. I think this Christmas was a giant fail for me from the beginning, so I'm going to blame past events. Like buying all our gifts for a sponsor child and finding out that the information was wrong and everything was actually asked for by another child that is sponsored by someone else. My sister's gifts? She didn't ask for anything because she already bought herself stuff. So I cut her a check. Richard? He bought himself golf clubs. My mom cut us a check. Richard's parents? They bought us a ping-pong table. <i>GREAT</i>! We are <i>never, ever</i> going to use it. Ever. And to fit it into our basement we have to move my treadmill to an area of the basement I loathe. Double fail. The worst part is that Richard wants this monstrosity and I can't tell him how mad I am because he doesn't know about it! Hopefully this holiday season swiftly turns in a better direction. </div>
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Has anyone had this problem? Not necessarily a fabric bleed, but more like a fabric absorption Any words of wisdom before I go mad?</div>
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My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-26870657617977382072012-12-06T08:07:00.001-05:002012-12-06T08:07:28.572-05:00Tula Pink Swap!<div style="text-align: center;">
Last night I helped <a href="http://mamaspark.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pam</a> and <a href="http://quiltnqueen.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pauline</a> bundle up fabric from the Tula Pink Swap Pam hosted and I participated in. I'm not going to lie, I was skeptical about the fabric because some of this designer's stuff is just out there. That said, I'm in love with quite a number of the pieces I got! I went through my stack this morning and had to share my favorites! </div>
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We were so busy putting the stacks together that I barely took notice of what fabrics came in. As I was thumbing through the stack my coworker pointed out the red print, and said "look, another turtle." What? Oh my gosh, sea horses too! The green turtle is my favorite so I was pretty thrilled to have more little turtles grace the pile. The lion eating the woman was pretty great too. I have no idea what I'll do with her, but she is fantastic. Maybe center her and just make a wall hanging? Who knows. </div>
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I got my MSU quilt back last night too (YAY!) and I've conned my coworkers to help me take a picture of it today! Hopefully the sun makes an appearance for the photo shoot!</div>
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I've also got quite an adventure ahead of me this weekend in our basement, but I will tell you of our escapade, and the reason for it, later. Hopefully we can make something amusing out of it.</div>
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Have a lovely day!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-79414412941578664532012-12-04T09:54:00.002-05:002012-12-04T09:54:38.912-05:00A new project! With a deadline..<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh my gosh you guys. I'm going to make a baby quilt. My cousin is pregnant! I can't even wait! I love the baby already and I want it here<i> now </i>but he/she won't be here until July! That's just too long!</div>
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<a href="http://mamaspark.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mama Spark</a> made a couple of Noah's Ark quilts a while back as a gift and I love them. Her quilts, combined with a previous interest and my desire to make my cousin a baby quilt (eventually) made me start quilting! And I'm soooo happy that I did because now's the time! Mama Spark generously donated me the remainder of her fabric from the project because it is no longer in production. It is the All Creatures Great and Small by Moda and I knew I needed it for Amy. I even got enough to make myself one :) </div>
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(Thanks again, my friend- you've helped make me so happy to be able to do this!)</div>
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Anyways, I know it's not much, but I was so happy that I needed to share! </div>
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I'm getting my MSU quilt back from the quilter and then I only have one more side to bind on it! I also started a mini MSU wall hanging (which I think I told you) and I'm done sewing the blocks and I'm hoping to trim them all up tomorrow evening and sew it together this weekend! YAY!</div>
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Off to field work!</div>
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Hope you're having a lovely day!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-81891774207884586622012-11-27T07:56:00.000-05:002012-11-27T07:56:10.784-05:00Crafty Item: Sewing machine cover!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of my Crafty projects this month {<em>and to be honest, last month</em>} was to make a sewing machine cover. I followed the pattern used in the <a href="http://quiltnqueen.blogspot.com/2012/11/lets-take-trip-down-holiday-lane.html" target="_blank">Holiday Lane Blog Hop</a>, but I altered it because I didn't actually want to have a winter cover. I hate the cold. And also because who knows the next time I will actually make one of these. My cover is very simple. See?</div>
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I had to measure my machine and alter the pattern so the scale would look right, and because I'm a country girl and dislike close houses, I decreased the amount there were and added some super cute trees in their place. I love them. They are my favorite part! I embroidered a {giant} bird, and she's also pretty cute though she doesn't stand out very well. I might add more decorative stuffs later. </div>
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To make it, I worked on the front panel, then added enough fabric to cover the top and back. I lined it with batting and some white fabric scraps that my Grandma had and I inherited and quilted it very simply. Vertical lines on the front and diagonals on the back. Then I added the sides. It was kind of an experience since this was my first 3D piece I've ever done, but it came together. Then I machine bound it, which I like because it looks much more like grass. Mama Spark made one which more closely follows the pattern. Hers has open sides that tie with ribbon. There is a <a href="http://mamaspark.blogspot.com/2012/11/holiday-lane-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">fancy tutorial</a> and everything! If you'd like to know how I made mine, let me know!</div>
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I want to make another one out of strips of batik fabrics and add a pocket so I can store some notions. Someday :) I hope this gave you some inspiration for your own sewing machine covers!</div>
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I also started an MSU wall hanging last weekend as a secret santa gift for a cousin. It is basically a mini version of my MSU quilt-in-progress for my dad. By the way, it is nearly done! I can't wait to show you! Hopefully I'll wrap that up this upcoming weekend!</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-18123524099716417062012-11-21T07:44:00.002-05:002012-11-21T07:44:52.637-05:00Things of string<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey guys! It's been a while! I've been super busy, just like many of you! It is the holidays after all. I have been working on a few projects, one of them is made of string!</div>
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I needed to learn how to knit to made some adorable baby booties for my cousin who is trying for a baby so I used a day when I was sick to lay in bed and watch youtube. I made a cabled tea cozy! I didn't finish it in that day, though, because I had to rip it out 5 times to get it right and then I still messed up and decided to keep going {<em>Oh right, just like how I sew</em>}. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZwymDCgCzI/UKzFA-00BJI/AAAAAAAAAlg/JtqhSFF5tUs/s1600/cabled+tea+cozy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TZwymDCgCzI/UKzFA-00BJI/AAAAAAAAAlg/JtqhSFF5tUs/s320/cabled+tea+cozy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It doesn't look too bad though, if I do say so myself :) I just need to add buttons and snuggle it against my favorite mug.</div>
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Other things that have kept me occupied: our house, vacation, and field work. </div>
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We are refinancing our house into a lower interest rate so DH and I were frantically running around our house before and after vacation of these last two weeks trying to get things done for the appraisal. We <em>finally</em> boxed in our office. It looks amazing! We also had to repaint a ceiling and put in lots of new light fixtures. I finished putting up curtains in <em>every</em> room {which I'm still blown away from}, and then I had to patch drywall and paint. Plus the cleaning. Oh my gracious, the cleaning.</div>
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Before we left for vacation to Florida, Richard decided that he needed to complicate matters for us. He was changing a light bulb that hangs over our staircase. Sounds simple, but to reach it you have to use a ladder that converts to scaffolding, cover the scaffolding with wood, and then top that with another ladder to reach it. Richard got that far by himself since I'm so terrified of heights that just standing on our landing is a victory for me. Well, he needed help folding the ladder back into its "standard" position so when I helped and walked away I said, "Now don't forget to lock that ladder before you put up that ceiling fan." 20 minutes later I heard a decent thud. Normally thuds in our house are followed up by a "Are you OK?" .. "Yes I just dropped the {hammer, drill, level, tote, chair, etc}". Not this time. I got a lot of grunting responses. I thought he had broke his foot but after bounding upstairs I saw the ladder had gone through the wall and Richard was on the floor holding his hand which seemed to be bleeding quite well. I knew my first aid from work would come in handy! Downstairs to our bathroom we went where I wrapped him and told him we needed to go get stitches. Since we still had so much to do, obviously he refused until our nurse neighbor said to go get them. Thanks Kelly. Off to the urgent care we went where <em>I</em> nearly passed out and the doctor made me lay on the bed with Richard until I got some color back. We decided that I might not be able to handle children.</div>
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But doesn't it look wonderful??</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{curtains!}</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New lighting!</td></tr>
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Then we went to Florida. It was a short trip, but we had fun doing basically nothing. We did go to the Miami Seaquarium though, and it was pretty fantastic. I thought there would be more fish, but it was mostly marine mammals. Whatever, I'll take it :)</div>
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I hope you all have a very happy thanksgiving! Doing any black friday shopping?? I hear JAF has some pretty good bargins...</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-32407333993747386962012-10-31T21:55:00.001-04:002012-10-31T21:55:56.669-04:00Happy Halloween!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pumpkin. Richard's lame and didn't carve his this year.</td></tr>
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Best costume I've seen tonight: Publisher's Clearing House Girls. One came with the giant check, the other had the balloons. Awesome.</div>
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Hope your evening was spooktackular ;)</div>
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<br />My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5001041419137625031.post-89257598090929615302012-10-29T11:24:00.000-04:002012-10-29T11:24:12.760-04:00In other news...<div style="text-align: center;">
I finally have a husband again! Richard took his last preliminary actuarial exam on Thursday and <em>he passed!</em> Oh, I can't tell you how happy I am! This last exam he took was super difficult and actually not applicable to his job- it was basically just knowing a ridiculous amount of math for knowledge sake. It usually takes people upwards of three times taking it to pass. Which is ridiculous. This was Richard's second attempt and he made it! I was super nervous that he had spent literally every hour he was home studying for it to not pass. Now though? I have no idea what to do with him.</div>
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I'm so used to cleaning and spending time alone in our house so when he's around now I am just confounded. Saturday morning I was unloading the dishwasher and he was standing there staring at me because he didn't know what to do with himself either. So I told him to put away the utensils, haha! He did it wrong (which impressed me since he takes silverware out of the tray thing every day...), but at least I didn't have to do it. And yesterday? He vacuumed. And cleaned his office. And took out the garbage! <em>I KNOW!</em></div>
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Since he has passed though, life suddenly got super busy. We had dinner together Thursday to celebrate, went out with his co-workers Friday night, lunch with his parents Saturday, Halloween party Saturday night, then oil change/transmission flush/new tire shopping for my car (see ya $600), stop at Kohls and BBB, grocery shopping, speed made freezer meals for Richard's mom {who's having surgery when we are going on vacation next month}, throw in some craft time here and there, then sickness. Ugh. I felt it coming on for a few days but last night was the worst. I stayed home from work today and haven't really left the bed. It's just me, Annie, and the vaporizer hanging out. In theory, DH and I are gutting pumpkins tonight and carving tomorrow since we just didn't have the time for it this weekend. If we don't have them done by Halloween, I think it will be the first time in my whole life I didn't have a pumpkin!</div>
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Wish me luck :)</div>
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Stacey</div>
My Old Quilting Soulhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11066168008733106748noreply@blogger.com3