It's "SEW" Shannon

Yeah, we made it!

2012-01-30T03:46:00.001-07:00

Just letting you know we made it to Holland and are having a fabulous trip so far. For some reason I can't get my tablet to download pictures to blogger. Can't wait to show and tell all about it when I get home next week. See you then.

Ready to travel!

2012-01-25T17:16:00.003-07:00

Let me introduce you to Stitchin' Shannon. She's all strapped in for her long journey to the Netherlands. Where, oh where will she end up?

See you there!

A Travel Bag Makeover!

2012-01-25T16:26:00.008-07:00

I'm failing! What's wrong with me? I didn't take the time to make a new bag for my upcoming trip so when I ran across this bag on clearance I thought I could do something with it to jazz it up a little. It's kind of boring as is I think. Maybe that's why it was still hanging around TJ Max's. You already know how I love that store, right?
I gathered a few odds and ends together and went to work. I had an old hankie that belonged to my Mom which I had cut up already for another project. I had some fun buttons I had picked up in PA last year, there was a satin flower I made with a vintage pin attached. And the cameo pin is a gift that was given to me by my sister, Collette 43 years ago on her wedding day. They adorned our cute little pink dresses. How fun is that little tidbit? It's been hiding in my cedar chest all these years. The perfect accent piece. I think it's got that vintage feel which goes along with all the other embellishments.
And here is what I came up with. The drab gray bag now looks like this. What a difference, huh?
Add a little vintage "S" charm and a bit of bling and you have it made! I think I'm going to love showing this one off!
And this my friends is me when I was almost 7 at Collette's wedding, wearing my cameo pin. I'm the cute little brown haired girly on the end! (Collette probably won't like me posting this picture, but I just had to share it). It's too cute not to.

A new addiction!

2012-01-24T08:44:00.005-07:00

When Yvonne and Alex were here in September from the Netherlands, they brought all of us a canister of these most delightful candies called Babbelaars. Thanks, Yvonne for my newest candy addiction! These little gems are delicious. They remind be of our Wirther's candies we have here in the U.S., but I have to admit these are much better. They are pure butter! This is what's left in my jar, not many as you can see. So this is a must on my list to bring home with me. Who want's Babbelaar's?

Vegas Baby!

2012-01-24T08:15:00.012-07:00

Welcome to Las Vegas! Last week we made a flying (truckin') trip to Vegas. The reason the annual Shot show. We stayed at the Luxor this year. The view out of our 22nd floor window, the highest you can go. Wow, talk about dizzy!We viewed everything new in the industry, like this gun set work $280, 000. Oh my, for guns!
Or something like this. This is one huge gun, it won't be something new at the White house though.
Tuesday night we attended the Outdoor Channels dinner show. They always have the finest of dishes and a whole lot of them. A glass for everything!
The whole meal from appetizers to the dessert was delecious.
After dinner we were treated to a performance by Larry the Cable Guy. A good laugh is always good for the soul. I laughed until my sides were hurting. He's a talker now!
On the way home we stopped in St. George for the night so before we left on Thursday we stopped for an In and Out burger. We took a picture of the nice clean truck because we knew we would be coming home to snow.
Yup, it was here on Saturday. Oh, but it looks nice to see it in the mountains. Glad she's here and we made it home safe.

You have my back!

2012-01-21T07:49:00.003-07:00

But that's all you get! I'm playing with you now, huh? Can't wait to show you the rest of this little project. Hint, hint, she's just "Sittin" around for a few days!

Here's 2 More!

2012-01-20T08:37:00.012-07:00

Both of these quilts will be classes at the Corn Wagon this quarter. If you can tell I like quilts that can be done in a timely manner and both of these are very fast and very, very fun. The first quilt is called the "10" Minute Block quilt. I don't know exactly how long this technique has been out but I just found out about it last month. The pattern is from Susan McNeil, she is famous for her patterns used from pre-cuts. This one is from 10" layer cakes and yardage. I used the Reunion line from Sweetwater for Moda. The solid red fabric is from the Circa 1934 line from Cosmo Cricket.Looks a little complicated doesn't it? But it's not, really! 3 seams is all the block has and you have the option to making the center block square or turn it into a cathedral window. It looks like there is curved piecing in this quilt, doesn't it? But there is none of that.
The backing is navy blue minky, this makes is a great cuddle quilt. You can do other sizes as well. Charm squares will make a smaller quilt and it's a great way to use up scraps from your stash.
The second quilt is called Playing with Yo Yo's from the designer Yo Yo Mama Designs. Wow, it's been a long time since I had made yo yo's. I used the Clover large and X- large size yo yo maker. Man this is a great little tool, I had my yo yo's done in no time. Something relaxing to do while watching the television. I already have something else in the works with this fun, new tool. Well, it's new to me anyways.
The fabric used in this quilt is from the Daisy Cottage line from Lori Holt for Riley Blake and there are also pieces from the Moda line Puttin' on the Ritz.
The large circles are raw edge applique but you could most certainly do them turned under. This makes a great little baby quilt.

Both of these are kitted for classes, stop in and check them out in person. Pictures never do quilts justice, do they? They are so much cuter and prettier in real life. The "10 Minute block class will be in February and the Yo Yo class is in March. The 1842 Tea Party quilt I featured yesterday is in April. You have plenty of time to put these on your calendars. If you have been wanting to learn new techniques, now is your time. Start planning now.

New Year, New Quilts!

2012-01-19T10:35:00.010-07:00

Besides getting ready for my trip I've managed to squeeze in 3 new quilts. The first one I want to share with you is called Tea Party and the pattern comes from Sweet Jane's. The fabric is called 1842 Battle Hymn for Moda. I used one Jelly Roll, 2 Charm Packs and yardage from the Elizabeth Town collection from Jo Morton. The piano key border is cut from the charm packs. The pattern doesn't come with border instructions so I added the inside border and piano key border to make the quilt larger.The new name,1842 Tea Party. This will be one of the up coming classes at the Corn Wagon. You can view our new class schedule there. I have two more on the schedule and I will show them in just a bit.

There are a few kits cut for the class so don't wait to long if you want in. Call or stop in this weekend during our Winter Open house for your discount on 1 item and 10% off your class fee.

So what do you think? To date I think this is my favorite quilt.

New Shoes!

2012-01-19T10:28:00.003-07:00

My time is getting closer and closer to be seeing these very cute shoes in person. This girl loves new shoes, just don't know if I will be able to wear them when I get home! I'm kinda liking the red ones!

Just 7 days til my plane takes off, better start packing!

Our home away from home!

2012-01-10T09:08:00.009-07:00

We received these 2 pictures from Yvonne and Alex over the weekend. Out of the kindness of their hearts they rode their bikes over to check out our vacation rental. They are making sure things are going to be just right for us. This will be our home away from home for 11 days. They don't live far away from here. The little town and where we are staying is called Katwijk. We can't wait to get there.In just 15 more days we will be enjoying the company of these fine people. She has told them to have everything nice and clean as we will be arriving early on the 27th. We are getting excited to see them again. And thanks once again for going and checking out our living quarters. See you in a few days!

Plushy Pillows!

2012-01-10T08:41:00.011-07:00

For Christmas I made these 27" plushy pillows for the grandkids. These are for movie watching, playing around, jumping off furniture, etc. Well maybe not for the last one mentioned, but I bet it has happened. All of them are made from a patterned minky and the backing is the new furry shag. The pillow forms are from JoAnn's. Watch for them to go on their 50% off sales before you buy. A little more affordable that way.

The kids were having so much fun with them on Christmas eve after they opened their pj's. McKinley and Karas checking theirs out.Hatch is settled in for a long winters night sleep or watching t.v.

And Teegan getting ready to jump!

All five of them in one spot. They were all hyped up to go home and sleep on them while waiting for the man in the red suit to make his stop.

Another Grand Adventure!

2011-12-30T08:31:00.022-07:00

And boy will it be grand for sure. We are official passport holders and to break them in our first foreign stamp will be the beautiful country of the Netherlands. What a great Christmas present one could wish for. It's really going to happen, I'm going, I'm going. And sooner than later! I tried to keep it a surprise from my Bee friends but could not wait any longer. So much to plan with the girl's! I talked to Yvonne and Alex last week and they are thrilled to have us visit and to enjoy their country just as much as they have enjoyed America. I will be able to reunite with the ladies I met last March in PA, plus meet many other sewing friends. I can't wait to get there. Oh, by the way we leave the 26th of January. Holy smokes that is in just 27 more days! Let the countdown begin! Oh how I'm excited, the adrenalin is rushing through me as I type. (Squeal, squeal)

How our lives have changed since meeting these two wonderful people and the friends they have introduced to us. How in the world did this little girl from Utah become so blessed to have such golden opportunities. It just goes to show that most people of the world are the same. We love life, adventures, friendships and sewing! And how it has affected our lives for the good and better.

These are the lovely ladies of the Bee that meet every Thursday night with me as an absentee member. Not for long, we will all be together for photo's on the 28th at the Blogger Bee in Katwijk. Yvonne is hosting the Bee for these ladies and about 15 others. Who knows maybe we will have the regular Thursday night Bee while I'm there. One can only hope, huh? See you soon ladies. I'm coming, I'm coming!
In less than a month I will be traveling this same road and stopping at this friendly inviting home. The home of Yvonne and Alex, just watch the video below and you can travel part of the journey with me in advance. More to come of the adventures in the Netherlands at the end of January.

Christmas Greetings!

2011-12-24T14:46:00.004-07:00

Holiday wishes to all of you that may be reading this. Thanks for being a part of my blogging world this year. It's been another great one getting to know more and more of you, rather it be through blogging, meeting you in the shop(Corn Wagon), quilt market, etc. So have a Merry Christmas and keep on sewing and blogging and I'll do the same.
And to all of my far away Bee friends in the Netherlands I wish you the very same. Every Thursday night I think of you and all the fun you are having without me! Maybe someday, maybe someday I keep telling myself. Thank you for the very nice Christmas card.

Christmas with BFF's!

2011-12-24T13:31:00.010-07:00

Liz and I hosted our annual girl's Christmas club. We have so much fun getting together laughing and talking about kids and grand kids and life in general. We met at my place and car pooled over to Goodwood Barbeque for a delecious dinner. We then stopped and did a little shopping on the way home. Everyone can always find something to buy in TJ Maxx's and why do they always blame me? Maybe because it happens to be one of my favorite places to shop!
After our shopping excursion we came back to the house for more laughing and refreshments. Me and Liz had given each of them a poem likening girlfriends to panties and a little purse pouch. And by Kaye's reaction they all thought it was a hoot.

I had made Perppermint Brownies and Cherry Chip Cake bars for treats. Every time I make mint brownies I think of my mom. This is her famous recipe and one she made at Christmas time. And of course there was Diet Coke to finish off the night.
Here's wishing all of my life long girl friends a very Merry Christmas and may we have many more together. This one will for sure be one we can laugh back on. Love ya, Shannon

A new hobby, maybe!

2011-12-24T12:58:00.004-07:00

When I was in PA last March I picked up this cute wool pincushion kit and the hardware it goes on. I am just barely getting around to making it. I don't do much with wool but this was actually very relaxing to do. If you know me I don't do a lot of applique, the girl's at the shop keep making fun of me because I won't try the A word.

They were pleasantly surprised when it showed up as my Christmas gift for the shop party. Everyone was fighting for it when we played our exchange game, I guess I met their standards! Now I just need to make me one. Maybe!

New Quilt!

2011-12-24T12:37:00.006-07:00

A new Christmas quilt is hanging in the basement this year. I put this one together the week of Thanksgiving and Ramona quilted it for me so I could get it hung while I was decorating. This is a pattern from Kati Cupcake. It was a free download off of the Henry Glass website, they had used Amy's fabric but I thought it would be really fun out of Christmas fabrics. It would be cute out of just about anything and it goes together really fast. I opted out on doing the applique like she had done. It just didn't fit with the fabric I was using, but afterwards I thought it might be kind of fun to applique wool stars in the big setting squares. That is something I can add later if I decide to take on that challenge. I used several different lines in it. A good part of it is Lynette Anderson's Scandanavian Christmas. There's a little of FaLaLaLa from Moda, some Hometown from Moda and bits and pieces of one of Red Rooster's Christmas lines. Everything coordinated really well. The backing is a plaid from the RR line.

I chose a varigated thread and had it quilted with an all over holly and berry pattern. I love the results of it. I'm sure this one will be hanging around the White house for many years to come.

Getting closer!

2011-12-24T12:28:00.003-07:00

This package has been under our tree since the first week of December. It came all the way from the Netherlands, from our dear friends Yvonne and Alex. I love presents so it's been driving me a bit crazy not knowing what's inside. But the wait is over, we are going to open it tonight when the kids are all here, it is addressed to the White Family. Can't wait to share what's inside with you, I'll report later.

For Sure!

2011-12-23T09:59:00.002-07:00

I am one of these! And it sounds so official too! How about you, do you fit in this category?

Here A Santa, There A Santa!

2011-12-09T10:54:00.020-07:00

And everywhere there are Santa's. And there are many more of them too, standing and sitting around at the White house, these are a few that are in the downstairs family room. We have a few cowboy Santa's, maybe just one or two!

And chubby Santa's!

And a collection of hand carved Santa's.

Do you think I have a Santa addiction, or what?

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!

2011-12-07T21:00:00.008-07:00

The trees at the White house are nothing extravagant, but fit our style I think. The tree in the family room downstairs is a cowboy Christmas theme. Cowboy Santa's, snowmen, hats, boots, glittered bandana ornaments and stars adorn it. The lasso rope garland was very inexpensive to do, just visit your local hardware store. And the tree skirt, why that's just denim yardage bought at JoAnn's.
Our second tree is one with collected ornaments through the years, but just recent years. When the kids were little it was a tradition to go get a new ornament for the tree. Well, now that the kids have all grown up and left us and have taken all their childhood memory ornaments we decided we would keep this tree the same but only with our own ornaments. We have started going with the kids and grandkids now. What a fun evening for all of us.
Our box of goodies for the tree. We are getting up there in numbers, not quite enough to fill the tree but that will come with time.
Looking at the above picture I think it needs a little bit of color. Maybe some shiny red balls or bows. What would you add to this tree to make it pop?

Somethin' Special!

2011-12-05T18:46:00.016-07:00

What a nice surprise I got last week when Emily and Paris walked into the Corn Wagon. I had just read on Emily's blog that she was collecting red and green fabrics to make a Christmas quilt and was thinking to myself how I would love some of those fabrics she had all stacked up. But to tell you the truth I think I have most of these little pieces in my stash. Well guess what? I am that somebody special she was making it for. Now I won't have to put one together, jk Emily! Oh and I don't want to forget the chocolate that was also with it! I am one lucky lady to have such a good friend as Emily. We have a lot of fun together and I love visiting with her in the quilt shop and when we get together for lunch which we try to do once a month. And not to mention all the fun I have had with her on trips to Minnesota, Houston and Salt Lake for quilt market. I am always happy for the invite to help her out with her market prep to working in her booth. I love, love, love this little quilt. It's the perfect table topper for the holidays.

What a great way to start off the Christmas season, with the love of friendship, quilting and chocolate! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness Emily, I really love my little quilt.

Never to many!

2011-12-02T13:41:00.026-07:00

A home at Christmas time can never have to many nativities. Don't you agree? And this is the real meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ. This Precious Moments nativity was my first. Almost 30 years old and all the pieces accounted for. This little set stays out all year long in my curio cabinet.

Years ago I made this one of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. I don't know how many of these I made, but it was several. I made them to sell at craft boutiques. I have never seen anything like them since. Consider yourself lucky if you have one, I've searched high and low in the sewing room for the pattern with no luck. One day I will stumble upon it and who knows, just maybe I'll make some again. The Fisher Price nativity is one we have had since Hatch was a baby, so that's been coming out of the box for almost 10 years. This is the one the kids are able to play with when they come to the White house during the holidays. I know they still sell these in the Fisher Price catalog or online. And when we were in Target today I noticed they were selling them.This is the Willow Tree nativity that I started collecting when I worked at Heritage Woodworks. I have some of their very first pieces, like the trees. Those are discontinued pieces now. This is one of my favorites. The creche was given to me right before Christmas in 2003 when my dad passed away on December 16th. This piece holds a special place in my heart as it brings back such fond memories of him.This nativity was a gift several years ago from Stuart's sister in-law, Pam and her husband Doc. I remember them bringing it the first of the month so we could enjoy it all month and we sure have been enjoying it every year since.This nativity is made from olive trees from Jerusleum. It was also a gift. A gift from my parents many years ago. I haven't had this one out for a few years but this year I ran across the box in the very back of my Christmas storage room. Time to display it again, I thought. Once again, this one also brings back many fun and everlasting memories of my mom and dad. I miss them every day but it seems that I miss them more this time of year. Christmas is a time of giving and that's what my mom and dad were, always giving. Merry Christmas to both of you.

How about you? Do you have a favorite nativity at your house?

Let the countdown begin!

2011-12-02T13:08:00.013-07:00

Mrs. Claus has been very busy in her sewing room the last couple of weeks getting these Countdown to Christmas quilts ready for the first of December. In total I made four of them. One for the White house, and one for each of the families. This quilt is a spin off from my Spooky Treats pattern that I put out a couple of years ago. I knew I wanted to make a Christmas advent one but have been waiting for the perfect fabric and this year just happend to be it. I used a couple of Moda lines to make it happen. The first, Countdown to Christmas from Sweetwater and the second, Circa 1934 by Cosmo Cricket, which is the pockets and the backing. The binding fabric is Deck the Halls by Anka's Treasures for Henry Glass.
On the back I put a label with a poem explaining how the count down begins with the 24 pockets and ends when you can jingle the two bells on Christmas day. We gave them to the kids during the Thanksgiving weekend. Here's Kaitlyn reading the poem to McKinley and Teegan.

The Mitchell family and their new quilt and the bag of candy to fill the pockets.

The Carter clan with Grandpa and Grandma with their new quilt.

And Jacob and Angie with theirs. Something to start their first Christmas off as a married couple and a tradition to carry on with their kids.

This is the finished quilt hanging at the White house. Yes, the President and First Lady are in on the count down to. Your never to old for Santa Claus, right!

Let the count down begin! Oh yeah, that was yesterday wasn't it? Oh, and by the way this will be a pattern for next Christmas. Speak now if you want some of this great fabric for your quilt. I have a little bit left if any of you are interested in a kit. I know it's a little early to be thinking about next year but it's to late for this one. Sorry, I just couldn't think about Christmas in June when all this fabric came out!

Happy 80th!

2011-12-02T12:59:00.004-07:00

Last Saturday we had the opportunity to spend the afternoon with a very special lady. My Aunt Dale (my dad's sister) celebrated her 80th birthday. Her family hosted a luncheon and program for her. We have lived just around the corner from my Aunt Dale for almost 24 years. She's always so pleasant and fun to be around. She is a great example to me and has been to my kids over the years. We wish her many more happy ones.

We shared a table with Tamara, Richard and Karissa. They served us the most delicious soup and salad bar. And oh yeah, don't forget the cake too.

It was fun visiting with cousins and getting to know all of their little families. They had a really good turn out. And why wouldn't they when you are honoring someone special like Aunt Dale.

Thanksgiving, 2011

2011-12-02T12:16:00.014-07:00

Mmm, Thanksgiving this year was so good. Our count was a little down this year due to sharing with the in-laws. I managed to get a picture of the table and with the hustle and bustle of getting everything served up, I forgot to take a family picture. Oops! After dinner it's fun to look at the Black Friday shopping deals. Here Kaitlyn and my sister Jan scour over the ads for the perfect things to buy. If your shopping that is!

The Mr. and the Mrs. enjoy visiting while these two crazy girls shop the ads.

And Teegan can do stairs, kind of. Grandpa was right there behind him the whole way up. Way to go Teeg! And McKinley is trying to give all sorts of money away. Any takers?

Mike and Channing(brother in-law) comfied themselves in front of the football games. What a nice afternoon giving our thanks for another great year. Hope your day was just as pleasant as ours.

All Decked Out!

2011-11-28T21:51:00.005-07:00

Almost that is. I have been working a couple of days now on the decorating here at the White house. Don't let the picture fool you, this isn't by any means how I dress to decorate. That would be only in LaLa Land or at the "real" White house. Hope to finish it up in the next day or two so you can see what we have done around here.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T10:55:00.003-07:00

Here's wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I have so many things I am blessed with and grateful for. First, I have a wonderful husband that loves me and cares for me. I have great kids and grandkids, a nice home that keeps me safe and warm. I have a good job and many, many friends. Yes, I am blessed.

Bag Class for November

2011-11-18T14:18:00.004-07:00

Are you looking for a great gift idea for that special someone this Christmas. Look no longer, this little Peek A Boo bag is perfect. It is great for sewing supplies, make-up, kids little treasures, like crayons or markers, stationary items, etc. Join me on November 30th at the Corn Wagon and I'll show you just how easy they are to make. They only take two fat quarters, interfacing and a zipper. Don't let the zipper scare you away, it's quick and easy. Stop in the shop or e-mail (oohsaahsw@aol.com) me if you are interested. "SEW" think of everyone that's on your list this year.

Last day, already!! . . .

2011-11-07T09:44:00.047-07:00

And it happens to be Halloween. I thought I would see more ghosts and goblins today. I did spot a few decked out for the day. Like this cute little witchy poo named Marcia and her apprentice from Abbey Lane Quilts. As usual their booth was "magical". This adorable little witch is Kay Whitt. She was out promoting her new book called Serendipity Bags. Which by the way I scored an autographed copy from her herself. Can't wait to start something out of it.

And these funny, funny witches are none other than Marsha and Mary Ann. They wer out wondering the floor one more last time.(Make sure you watch the video at the end for a little bit of a surprise)!

It's four o'clock already. Quilt market is now closed. It didn't take us long to take down the booth and get it all loaded up. Say goodbye to the Hall of Fame booth. But that's not the real goodbye, you will be saying hello to it in the upcoming months. So be watching for it at a shop near you.

Two tired and Crazy Old Ladies!

The road crew loaded up and ready to go. Be safe our friends, it's been a really fun week.

Michelle, Scott, Becky and Terry.

A little mexican for supper that night. We ate at a great place Lil Pappasitto's. Very tasty. Emily, Laura and Michelle. Michelle and Laura wouldn't being flying out until early the next morning so one last night to celebrate.

I had the filet mignon fajita's and they did not dissapoint me. I ate the whole order, they tasted that good and that's something I do very rarely. Definately a stop if you are ever in Houston.

And of course the night wouldn't be complete without our Moulton choc. cake. Yup, we did it again, we called room servic. They were johnny on the spot to deliver to us. Boy, I'm gonna miss you my chocolate cake!!

Tuesday morning was a lazy one. We didn't fly out until later that afternoon. We slept in and just took our time getting ready for the day. When it was time to leave I couldn't help but reflect back on such a great week we had had. So many memories there. Thanks for the good time everyone.

And who just happened to be on the same flight as me and Em but my good friend Bonnie. It was fun chillin with her at the airport and talking spring retreat with her. See you in the spring if not before then Bonnie, or should we get together and do lunch before then?

Our last picture before we fly out for Utah. Now my list of places to go includes Houston, and oh what fun I had. Thanks Emily, your one Crazy Old Lady, not!
Now for a good laught, play the movie!

Sunday Snippets!

2011-11-04T12:29:00.032-06:00

Sunday was kind of a quiet day at market so while I was out wandering I took a few pictures of some of my favorite booths. The first one Pillow and Maxfield for Michael Miller. They were are neighbors during the whole show. Isn't this new line Ohh La La just adorable. Another Michael Miller designer I just love is Sandi Henderson. Her new line Secret Garden is doing really well. I will share the bag I made from this line on another post. Made it just for market and then forgot to pack it. Augh!

This little game box was on my chair when I got back. Quilter's Bunco, sounds really fun to play. Thank you Bunco Fairy for this. I think I know who you are and what booth you are in! Anyone want in? I think we are going to try this at the Corn Wagon on a month basis. Watch for more details.

This booth was beautiful. It's Bonnie Blue. Their quilts were all perfectly done.

My friend Dana from the Lazy Daisy Cottage was one of the double booth winners. Go Dana and Darryl!! The last one for the day, the Moda booth.

It's closing time and we are ready for supper. We headed to Riva's for Italian. It was very, very good. In tow we had Marsha, Mary Ann, Emily, and Myself. We met Terri and her family there. Laughter again was on the menu tonight.And almost settled in for the night until someone shouted, anyone want Molton chocolate cake? How could we pass it. Room service showed up at our door with two of them. It's the best I've ever tasted. Need I say more...

but good night.

Quilt Market is Now Open!

2011-11-04T10:23:00.016-06:00

First day of Quilt Market was a busy one. I did get the chance to roam around and see a few things. And look who I ran into at the Riley Blake booth, my good friend Bonnie from Pie Plate Patterns. We had lunch a couple times together during the show. Marsha and Mary Ann from the Corn Wagon (my bosses), Emily and Myself in front of the Michael Miller booth. Not such a good picture with my eyes shut.

And all of these fun ladies just happened to come to Em's booth at the same time. Some from home, the others blog friends. Recognize any of them?

I was beat from the whole days events but Marsha and Mary Ann begged me to go to the Moda Party. The theme, Moda's Got Talent. The meal was good but the entertainment was the best.

Rythmn of the Magic was one of the performers and Mary Ann got chosen to go up on stage and help this talented young man out. He did some amazing acts.

The Moda family all dressed up for the occasion. There was everything from the Village People, Martha and George Washington, the Pope, a nun. They really do know how to make you laugh. My sides hurt from laughing so much. A great time was had by all.

Only in your dreams Mary Ann! Can you see who she's dreamin about? Ty Pennington autograhed a picture today and she's still floating on cloud nine.

Sweet dreams everyone, more to show and tell you tomorrow.

Market Mayhem!

2011-10-28T21:59:00.012-06:00

Emily (The Crazy Old Ladies) had her Michael Miller School house presentation this morning. Kathy Miller introduced her and the new fabric line Hall of Fame. She showed some of the quils made from it.

Emily did a great jub presenting. Give her those quilts and she can talk forever.

And the crowd went wid about the new collection. Stop by booth 1624 during market if you are here and check it and get it ordered, Probably the shipping date is March.

ONe of our home town shop ladies helped with showing the quilts off. Mary Ann is the manager at Corn Wagon Quilt shop in Springville. More friends are coming into today and tomorrow.

Just putting up the last little detail of the booth. Its looking like a locker room don't you think? Did you have it guessed this was going to be a sports line/ Wait til you see every piece in the collection.

And I'm still binding away. I had many tell me I looked like Betsy Ross stitchin a flag, or maybe I was just chillin in the sports chair.

We weren't going to hit sample spree this year but we did some thinking about it just went for it. The admission is half price if you wait an hour later to get in. I still managed to find "things" to buy.

Run, ladies, run. And when we left tonight the booth was complete finished and it looks awesome and sporty. Is there another award in the making this year?

Time to get busy!

2011-10-27T22:29:00.012-06:00

This is our home away from home. We are on our third day here and today we off to the convention center to start setting up Em's booth. She is located in 1624 right by the Michael Miller group. So let's go get busy should we?

The official welcoming sign on the conference center.

And the mayhem begins. It looks like we have a few more join the work crew. Scott and Becky also belong to Terri. She has great family support.

Not only is Emily a pattern and fabric designer, she a carpet layer. Any guesses yet what this new fabric line is all about. Check out her hand painted carpet, remind you of something sporty?

And all of this will be transformed into something spectacular. We started working with things and realized we needed a few more things.

Terry and Machelle taking a mother daughter time out! And then it was off to this place for the second time. Yup, I said that, a second time. It seems you go in for one item and you can plan to be there for days!!

A quick bite and a trip to the nearest Walmart then back to the room to stuff patterns and bind two more quilts. Aren't we the best team ever, everybody is a team player. (Hint, Hint)

Watch for more booth pictures and Emily's School house presentation in tomorrows post. My eyes are telling me to go to bed. And I think I'll do just that. We had another fun day in Houston. We keep running into lots of quilters we know, can't wait to get pictures with them all. Goodnight.

Galveston, oh Galveston!

2011-10-27T10:41:00.030-06:00

Day 2, good morning from these two Mary Sunshine's. We both were so tired from the first day's adventures that we slept in a tad. Emily showered and when she came out she said the tub/shower was not draining very fast. To make a long story short, we had to call housekeeping. Let's just say it was not looking good.The mess the maintence man left us in for about an hour. Finally he came back and said that he was able to get us a new room. Awesome, now we can get moving and on the road to Galveston. Emily's back to sleep already, just waiting for the fix it man!We took our time enjoying three quilt shops along our way. No worries or hurries today. A day to relax before the chaois of the next few days. Our first stop Sew Contempo. Bags, bags and more bags. This shop was full of them. They must have a Bag Lady just like me at their shop. This shop is the Bernina dealer in the area, but they had lots of quilts too.Our second shop was Pinwheels and Posie. A cute, cute shop. Lots of Batiks to choose from. I picked up some yardage to go with a Bali Pop I have in my stash. Now to find the perfect pattern.They had just finished their shop hop, Quilts Around Texas. This one in the front entry really had the western feel.Third and final stop Cactus Quilts. Check out the quilted cactus on the front window. This shop was very friendly.

And this little gadget is really dating me. How many of you remember the fabric shops measuring your yardage with one of these? My local shop had one of these years ago, oh the good old days. Lot's of memories of Christensen's in downtown Spanish Fork.

This is Bobbie, she was the nicest lady ever. She was such a happy person. She really did make our visit at this quilt shop a pleasant one. She was really interested in Emily and her new fabric line.

Back on the road to our destination. Wow, rows and rows of refineries.

We had fun visiting the beach, though it was hot and kind of muggy and little on the windy side. Just what was I thinking not packing a pair of flip flops. Guess I didn't think we would be hitting a beach.

Emily sure did have fun. She grew up by a coastal town so she just had to get her feet wet.

And on this little road trip I managed to get one quilt bound for Emily's booth. Sorry you can't see more of this cute fabric line of Em's. It's a surprise for market. But soon, I promise.

And back to Houston we go. This is the down town district where we are staying.

We picked up Michelle (Terri's daughter) and went to supper and to find Ikea for some last minute booth items. You can imagine the recation to these lovely trees we saw on the way. What the heck, it's Christmas in Houston. Come on now, Halloween isn't even here yet

Emily and Michelle wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!

And to explain the cowboys above. My purchase at Cactus Quilts. Stuart told me before I left not to bring a Houston cowboy home, but I just had to have Horace, Jeb, Owen, Slim, Luke, Pole Cat, Hal, Hap and Tex! I just couldn't resist these cute boys. Sorry Stuart, I broke my promise!

We had a great day, now for the work ahead of us the next few days. See you from market.

Howdy Houston!

2011-10-26T07:23:00.017-06:00

It seems that I am not going to get caught up from the last month, things just keep happening around here so fast that I can't keep up. So let's start fresh today and maybe, just maybe I can get to those other advents at a later date. As you can see in the picture above I have luggage in hand. I must be going on another adventure. Emily (Crazy Old Ladies) and I are on our way to Houston for the fall Quilt Market. Our airport shuttle man (aka Stuart) dropped us off and we would be soon in the air on our way. After a long flight with the most miserable lady sitting behind us we made it to the hot and humid town of Houston. Walking to pick up our rental car we could see the policeman patroling the streets. On horses, now wouldn't that be a fun job for a cowboy and there are lots of those here.We picked up the car and off we go for an exciting time exploring the city. Alabama, I thought we were in Texas!It was time for supper and we just happen to have several eating places right in the location we are staying. We decided to try Guadalajara's and we were not disappointed. The food was fabulous. I have a feeling we will be visiting again before our stay is over in a week. Other friends will be joining us during the week. It's going to be a blast having them all here. Let the party begin, or should I say quilting!

Day 3 & 4, Lake Powell and St. George

2011-10-02T09:26:00.043-06:00

And were off for another grand adventure. Today we will be going to the upper part of Antelope Canyon (Slot Canyon). We picked up our Jeep tour in Page, AZ and off we went.Another first for all of us. I have probably never seen anything so beautiful as this. All the canyon walls are tall and slender with a little light coming in. You start and stop in the same place so you get to see it twice, coming and going.

You can see the outline of the antelope here in this picture. Can you pick it out?

This picture was taken just as you come out. We had a great tour guide, she knew exactly where to take all the great shots. Alex, Yvonne, Myself and Stuart. After the tour we did a little shopping and ice cream in Page. Stuart drove us to a look out point where you can see the front side of Glen Canyon Dam. Very pretty surrounded with all the red rocks. We are so lucky to have all this in our own back yards. I love Utah!

Later that evening we fancied up and went on the Princess Sunset dinner cruise. This would be our last night in Powell. A birthday celebration for me and spending it with Stuart, Yvonne and Alex was great.

The sunset was beautiful. Notcie the necklace I'm wearing, a birthday gift from my sweet husband. He picked it out while we were shopping in Page. Something he's wanted to buy me for quite sometime but never could find the right one for the right price. I guess this was the one. Everytime I wear my squash blossom I will remember the events that took place when I got it.Just visiting.

Isn't this a gorgeous picture?

And birthday cake with my very own candle. Let the 50's begin!

This was the crusie ship, the Canyon Princess.

Wednesday morning, the big day. My birthday. Stuart fixed us pigs in blanket for breakfast, using sausage. Oh so yummy, a dutch breakfast of sorts.

And Yvonne and Alex surprised me with balloons and some really nice gifts. First a wooden box with a stitchery in the frame that says BEE HAPPY, how could anyone be happy this day. Inside was a beautiful necklace from the oldest jewelry shop in the town of Leiden. A town right close to Yvonne and Alex. And to top it off some cologone called Stitch No. 3. It smells wonderful and just so perfect for a sewer. They really did spoil me. I am so glad they were here to celebrate with me.

After breakfast we packed eveything up and said good bye to Powell and headed into St. George to the house, where we would stay the rest of the week. Our guests said they could probably get used to camping after staying in the trailer.After settling in the house and feeding the men some lunch we took a ride. Stuart and I had accidently ran onto this place while riding around one day last winter. So we wanted Alex and Yvonne to see if for themselves. Did you know we had a Sky Ranch right here in sunny St. George. The garages of these homes are hangers. And yup they are for their airplanes! Crazy huh! The streets in the area actually are the taxi ways and take off strip. If your ever in this area take a peek for yourself, you won't believe it. For dinner that night they told me I could pick where I wanted to go. I choseed the Anazazi Steakhouse. Something we had seen but never tried. I don't know what we have been waiting for. It was a unqiue dining experience and oh so good.

First we had a cheese fondue for appetizer with all sorts of things to dip in it. The waiter mixes it and leaves it on a hot plate that is in the table so it stays warm throughout your meal. I ordered filet mignon. When they bring it out, it's on a hot stone that is heated to 700 degrees. You slice off chunks of meat to finish cooking it the way you like it. It was scrumptious as were the shrimp. Dipping into the fondue. Don't hesitate to try this place out. The meal was worth every penny!

After an evening ride out to Ivins we ended up at Kraves for yogart and then drove up to the D and showed them the over look of Dixie valley.

A great ending to another perfect day. Now what should we do the next few days? Keep on viewing! I bet there's quilting involved somewhere.

On the Road Day 1 & 2

2011-10-02T08:24:00.045-06:00

After spending a week in Idaho and Wyoming, Yvonne and Alex made it to our house ready for more traveling. They really shouldn't have but they brought us more welcoming gifts. Beautiful tulips will be embracing the White house garden's this spring. Such lovely shades of pinks. This week I will plant them and think of them as I'm doing so. Yvonne had knitted this beautiful pink scarf. Rennie had made me picture cd of our trip together in March and Yvonne #2 had made me this dove pincushion. Don't I have talented freinds?
And we are off the next morning to sunny Lake Powell and St. George. So travel along with us. We did some amazing things over the next few days.

Our first stop on the road was the big rock candy mountain and explaining about the off road vehicle (ATV) trails along side the mountain.

On our way we also stopped in Panguitch to show and tell them about the statue of the quiltwalkers. They had seen pictures of this on my blog and were interested in stopping. A quick stop at the Pink Coral Sand Dunes on our way to Kanab.

We stopped for a quick sandwich and did a little shopping in the Wigwam. Neither Stuart or Alex could find the right hat!Either to big or to small. What funny men we are traveling with.We got all registered and got the trailer all set up and enjoyed the sun going down. Stuart fixed us a steak on the barbie with dutch oven potatoes. Yvonne and Alex thought he was fixing a roast, that's how big the steaks were.

After our food had settled it was time to get serious on building a fire so we could make s'mores. Something new to our friends.

And I think Yvonne enjoyed them very much. So yummy and oh so sticky!We had an early rise Monday morning and the sun was beautiful coming up over the rocks. Today we will be taking a boat over to Rainbow Bridge. A first for everyone on this trip.

A little chilly going out but the sun didn't disappoint us. The day was filled with lots of it and boy did it get hot at times.

We made it. And it's even prettier in real life and to think I saw it for the first time with people from the Netherlands made even better. This was the tour guides idea. And a fun one at that!

Yvonne had helped her friends Eric and Fred arrange a trip to Utah and some of the canyonlands and guess who was in the same area at the same time. Yup, the boys so we arranged a meeting time and had supper with them in Kanab that night. What are the chances of that happening again? We had a great time getting to know them, we laughed the night away and learned more about the people of the Netherlands. When it was time to say good bye the boys were curious about the truck and how it all works. It's man stuff every where I guess. They were in awe at what this big black thing can do.

Time to say good night here. Hope you are enjoying the journey so far. There's lots more to tell you about. Watch for day 3 & 4.

Even time for sewing!

2011-10-01T18:52:00.016-06:00

Wow, here we are in October already. With such a busy September I still found the time to sew 4 new quilts. Don't know how I did it, but I did. The first, a cute little something for the little cowboy in your life. This is on display at the Corn Wagon. I used an older pattern from Mary's Cottage Quilts called Bunkhouse Kid. Most of the fabrics are from the King of the Ranch collection from Sara Khammash for Moda. I used brown minky for the backing and had a paisley star pattern quilted on it.

After Jacob moved out, his bedroom needed a new facelift so before our house guests from the Netherlands arrived I made new bedding. I didn't have a pattern for this quilt. I used 5" charm squares, a layer cake and yardage from the Hometown collection from Sweetwater.

Not to shabby, huh.

And pillow sham's to match. I will show you the whole new look at a later time. Let's just get caught up from all the events that took place in September.

A quilt tradition of mine is to give the grandkids a new quilt for their third birthday. This is McKinley's quilt. This quilt was made from just one layer cake and some solid yardage. It is the Veranda line from Robert Kaufman. I picked this cute line up at market in May with McKinley in mind. It just fit's her cute personality. The backing is lavendar cuddle (minky). And in with the binding I added purple rick rack. A fun accent to the finished quilt, I think.

And the pattern I used came from the fun new book by Sweetwater. It's called the Familyroom quilt. I can think of so many other fabrics this would be fun for. You might have to have this book.

And the quilt I just finished up last night is called the Jellyroll 1600. Marsha taught us how to make this quilt from one jellyroll peiced together end to end, then cut and sewn together with five seams. There are other variations to this quilt too. Watch for more on this one, it's getting very popular

My jellyroll was one I had in my stash from market 2 years ago. It's the Joel Dewberry Modern Meadow and the backing is from his latest collection Heirloom. The polka dot binding is from Michael Miller.

"Sew" yes I have been keeping up on my sewing amongest all the other events taking place this month.

Stay with me!

2011-09-30T13:45:00.004-06:00

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you don't think I have forgotten about my blog. I have so much to share with you, lot's of things have been happening around here. So just stay with me, it's going to be a blogging weekend, for me at least!

In Mourning!

2011-09-26T10:13:00.017-06:00

I wasn't going to be to work the week of my birthday so the girl's at the Corn Wagon celebrated before I left for vacation and boy did they go all out for the big 50 birthday girl! This is what met me at the door that morning. My very own walking aid! And look it even has a bag attached for the "old bag"! And everyone was dressed in black for they were mourning the passing of my youth. Oh aren't they so thoughtful. You could find tissues at every work station.

We all met for lunch, which was Cafe Rio. The cake was perfect! A headstone of all things.

Some of my family even stopped in. Kaitlyn, Teegan and Angie joined us for lunch and Stuart was on his way to Provo. Check out my new tiara.

My friends are mourning me again, this time they are all crying. I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends such as these ladies. They make my job so much fun. Now you see why I love my job.

And, oh what nice gifts I received. Everything a 50 year old needs, right. Thanks for such a great party my friends.

Look who's here!

2011-09-12T08:47:00.019-06:00

After almost 18 hours in the air, Yvonne and Alex made it here from the Netherlands. They will be staying almost 3 weeks. I'm so glad they made it safe and sound. They were very tired but oh so glad there was someone to greet them when they landed. Now onto to their first American supper on this trip. Alex was ready for steak.

We ended up a Texas Roadhouse in Clearfield. You can always count on a good meal there and the prices are just right. Yvonne's birthday was on September 1st so I had just waited until she got here to give her gift. She is a big fan of King George so I bought her his new CD. They try an buy some new CD's while they are here, she said this is one that was on her list. I hope she's enjoying it. I also gave her some western print fat quarters and a very cute pattern from Thankfully Sew, western to of course.

It's good to be all together again. I can't wait to get together with them next week, there will be lot's of fun things going on.

They are using our pick up while they are here. It has been a dream for Alex to drive something like this. We offered it and they couldn't of been happier. Here Stuart is explaining a few things about the truck to Alex. Then we said our goodbye's for the week.

They brought us such nice welcome gifts from the Netherlands. For me a lovely crystal welcoming candy dish and the chocolate to go in. Please come visit so you can have a taste. They are yummy! And for Stuart they brought a Dutch recipe book. He can't wait to start trying out some of their recipes.

We are very fortunate to have such great friends from such a far away place. And I'm glad they chose to come back to the great state of Utah for their vacation.

She's coming, she's coming!

2011-09-09T09:41:00.003-06:00

My dear friend Yvonne, my blogging buddy from the Netherlands is coming today. (You all know our story and how we met don't you)? That's another story in itself. I will have to share it again for those that don't. We will be picking her and Alex up at the airport this afternoon. They will travel onto Idaho and Wyoming for the next week. Then back to our place and from there we will be visiting Lake Powell and some other places of interest in and around St. George and Zion's. The last week they are here will be spent in Orem. They will be celebrating September birthdays with us and she is even going to be here for my first bag class of the season. I don't know who's more excited about all of this, her or me. They will be tired from such a long, long flight. We will treat them to a nice American supper after picking them up! Any suggestions. See you in a few friends.

My family favorites!

2011-09-06T08:28:00.055-06:00

Take a peep at all this White house craziness. Our family pictures turned out awesome. Enjoy and let's see which one wins your vote for favorite.

On a roll!

2011-09-06T06:21:00.004-06:00

I know I finally hit my blogging roll. You will have lots to read today. But I've also been on a sewing roll as well. Here is a sneek peek of what's coming with Hometown. A quilt!

Happy reading and sewing,

Shannon

So Ugly, but cute. Kind of!

2011-09-06T06:07:00.004-06:00

Can you believe this, I have worked at the Corn Wagon almost 4 years and am just getting around to the wool section of the store. We have the most wonderful wool lady. She does everything with that stuff, like dying, stripping, and hooking (that's a little wool talk for ya). Oh my, I didn't know Marianne had it in her! Anyways I found this cute pumpkin in a magazine I bought in St. George for Marianne because it had some great things to do with wool. Little did I know that I would be making the display. It wasn't so bad, my stitching does need a little improvement and I don't think I'll be teaching the wool classes any time soon. We will leave that for the pro. The stem on Wooly Jack is an old silver spoon I found at the antique shop here in town and he is sitting on an old rusty bed spring. Oh the things you can do with these. They are a hot comodity I'm told at Treasures in Springville. You can use these for lots of things. How about favor cups for a fall party, to hold your pin cushion like Jack or your ice cream cone. Who would of thunk it!

He's kind of ugly but then again kind of cute.

Watch out for bed springs coming to the White house soon! Let me know if you need one or two, or maybe a dozen! Funny, huh!

Nifty, Nifty, We are all turning 50!!!

2011-09-06T05:53:00.007-06:00

So this is the big year for me and my club friends. We are all turning the big 50. We don't look a day over 20 though and sometimes we even act that. We really do have some fun together. Some of us met last Wednesday at Cafe Rio to celebrate. Some of these ladies have already had their milestone birthdays, like Melba, Jan, Gayleen, Camille. It was Sharon's and Elaines on that day. So then we have Kayes and then mine coming up this month. It is September right? And then Liz's in November. Sharon and Kaye, the two hard working girls in their scrubs.

Liz the beautician and Elaine the florist.

Camille, a stay at home mom and Melba the business woman.

So glad we are still able to do this at "OUR" age! I hope it never ends. We keep saying that are kids will have to put us all in the same resthome just so we can keep up with one another! Now that's friendship right there!

Ooh-La-La!

2011-09-06T00:13:00.007-06:00

It's only fitting that the "Bag Lady" make the shop sample for this cutie from Henry Glass fabrics. Dana Brooks designed this fun line called Ooh-La-La! Dana is the owner of Lazy Daisy Cotttage in St. George. This is one of my fav's down there. Look at all those cute hand bags machine appliqued on.

And guess what? We have kits available for this adoooooooorable quilt. Stop in and see the sample this weekend at the Corn Wagons Fall Openhouse. Lot's of fun new classes being offered. You don't want to miss any of them, especially the bag classes! More to come on those in a day or two.

If your just wanting the pattern, you can find it at www.henryglassfabrics .com

Oh, my goodness!

2011-09-05T23:57:00.007-06:00

Look at all this fabric goodness that was delivered to shop all in one day. It was just like opening gifts at Christmas time. So many new fun lines coming in. Lost & Found by My Mind's Eye for Riley Blake. This one is really cute and has an old vintage flair. I can't wait to show whats being made with this line. Let's just say it's not JUNK-y stuff!

This line is called Hometown from Sweetwater for Moda. Oh my heck this is cute stuff. And again there's something being quilted right now as I type. Can't wait to show you what I've been busy doing in the sewing room with it. Hum, do I hear the word new bedroom!

Another cute line from Moda. Completely drawn a blank on this one. Wann help me out with it? Nothing in the works for it yet.

And we just got this line in. Decadence by Samantha Walker for Riley Blake. The avacado greens, yellow and oranges are making a come back. It seems like I just had this color scheme in my kitchen, oh let's say about 24 years ago! Don't know that I could do it again though.

Remember, the Corn Wagon does ship. Did anything catch your eye?

We've been shopping!

2011-09-05T23:26:00.013-06:00

I took both Hatch and Karas "Back to School" shopping again this year. A tradition I started when Hatch started Kindergarten. Won't it be fun when they are all able to go on a shopping and lunch date with Grandma. Hatch was so cute about it. He's always thinking of future dates. He told me he would even be going with me when he turn's 16 and he can drive us and unload my walker from the trunk! Gosh, I love this kid. He knows how to make his grandma smile. I took Hatch on a Friday and Karas the following Monday. Hatch and I had lunch at the University Mall. He chose Arby's for his lunch. Just look at the curly fry would ya!

Then it was off to Gunnies Western Wear for a new pair of boots. He decided he needed these more than a couple of shirts. He made a good choice, they are pretty awesome looking boots.

And for our dessert treat. Krispy Kreme Donuts. We watched as they made the donuts and at the end, Hatch chose a maple bar. He thought it was a good idea to take one to Thayne and Karas, and we did just that.

Thanks for going with me Hatch, let's do it again next year when your 10! Oh my, my oldest grandson just started the 3rd grade. Before you know it he will be driving his old grandma around!

Who's in grandma's hot car? It's Karas, she thought she was pretty neat riding in the front seat.

Karas loves pizza so I took her to the Brick Oven for lunch. We had so much fun there. Afterwards I took her to Old Navy and we got her some cute new jeans and t-shirts to start her first grade school year. She's growing up. She fell in love with the Hello Kitty T, so of course I had to buy it for her.

An afternoon treat of cupcakes. Yummy, yummy, yummy. I think she chose this one because it had chocolate chips on top.

She was done with pictures when we took this one. I hope they look forward to this just as much I do. Where in the world does the time go. They are both back in school and are liking it so far.

Now fall can begin!

My friend, Mary Ann

2011-08-25T08:17:00.024-06:00

Some of you already know this but I am so blessed to work with some amazing ladies. Like I have said before, "I love my job" and Mary Ann Nelson happens to be one of the reasons why I love it so much. She makes the quilt shop warm and comfortable with her friendship. She's a friend to everyone the minute they walk through the door. She is very dedicated to her job and her love for quilting flows over to so many. Every year at this time, the Art Museum sponsors a quilt show. Our "Mary Ann" just happens to have her amazing Twilight quilt there. Just a few more days and the show will be closing. If you haven't been, make sure you stop in before heading to the Corn Wagon.Mary Ann was featured in the Daily Herald over the summer. Take a minute or two and learn more about my friend. The link is www.heraldextra.com/news/local/south/springville/

Her quilt is beautiful just as she is, inside and out. Thanks Mary Ann for filling my days with your love and laughter. I'm glad I can call you my friend.

And while I'm on the subject of friends I would like to express my sympathy to all my dear Bee friends in the Netherlands who lost our friend Cisca day before yesterday. I am so glad I had the opportunity to meet Cisca last March when I traveled with them to Pennsylvannia. Her memory will always be tucked away in a special place inside my heart. I was only around Cisca for five days but I could tell what a fun, loving lady she was. So caring of her friends in the Bee. I am so thankful that I took plenty of great pictures to look back on and remember her friendship. Thanks Cisca for the long distant friendship. I will miss you.

Things I did @ Girl's Camp!

2011-08-24T16:10:00.052-06:00

This is my sewing station while away at Girl's Camp. I had the whole week to work on some projects that needed to get done. The theme of this years camp was "It's a Jungle Out There", so my machine fit in perfectly. This is the first project I decided to dig into. I ran out of orange thread to do the casing on front and I just haven't gotten around to finishing it here at home. It's going to be one cute bag though when it does. I want to use this one for a fall bag and that will be here before you know it. So I must hurry, huh!

I pieced together this little baby quilt for the shop. It's called "Little Man" from the Simplify book from Camille Rosekelly. Easy, peasy to make. I have cut kits for these if your interested. The fabric is Michael Miller.These next bags were so simple to make. The name is the Peek a Boo bag and they are a great little bag for gadgets, make up, school supplies, treats. Just about anything. I have never sewn on the vinyl before and it was a breeze. I don't know why I have waited so long to make them. These are going to be in the fall line up of bag classes at the Corn Wagon. I believe this is the class for November. Won't they make great Christmas gifts? Watch for more details on the class.

I'm so happy how this quilt turned out. I took it with me to bind and I achieved that one afternoon sitting under the shade visiting with the girl's. For reference it's made from the Peace on Earth Woven's from 3 Sisters, that was out almost 4 years ago. My 75% off find in St. George one winter.

The back is a solid tan that I had in the stash. I wanted something simple so the quilting I had picked out would show good. Ramona quilted it with an all over bandana paisley. Love her paisley's!And this is how it looks on the trailer bed. This was the whole purpose of this quilt. Can you believe I actually had a purpose this time. I have charms packs leftover and I think they are shouting pillow shams. There's one more thing to add to the list.

And the last item completed is another bag. This is the Big Shopper by Whistle Pig Designs. It will also be in the bag class line up. Watch for it in December. It's a very roomy bag for all of those sewing projects or as the name suggests, shopping!There are pockets all the way around the inside and the draw string closure tab is optional.

So lot's of projects checked off the list during the week. Now if there were about 5 or 6 more I would be "SEW" happy. One of the first ones done, the baby quilt I did is already back from the quilter and bound.

It's got Moda Cuddle Soft on the back and I bound it in the stripe. What is it about stripes? I just love them for bindings. I just know any quilt bound in a stripe is going to be cute.

And here's proof of another one. Happy Sewing everyone. It's good to be back in the swing of things.

Baking time!

2011-08-17T09:01:00.011-06:00

Let's go back to the first part of July. I know it's about time isn't it? Angie had asked if I would make the Texas Sheet Cakes for the wedding. And of course I felt this an honor to do so. The kitchen at the White house was turning into a bakery. I have never made so many cakes in one day, hum it really makes you appreciate our fine bakers out there that get up so early every morning so we can have the yummy bakery goods that we do. I don't think I want to become a baker anytime soon. So let's get started should we. First you need all of these ingredients. And oh, I'm making 8 of them. And when it's all done it turns out something like this. First one out of the oven, it's perfect. 1 down, 7 more to go.

When Angie and I were at Orson Gigi I had picked up a couple of plastic lids for the sheet cake pans. What a nice invention the folks at Gigi's have come up with. You can now take your pans on the go with out tin foil and having your frosting stick to it. Stuart and I were in the area right before so I made him stop and get enough to go on the girl's pans that I had to borrow. Isn't this a pretty sight. And we had to wait until Saturday to eat one. The smell was heavenly around here.

And what do you do with a little of extra frosting. Well, my dad always made a sweet treat out of soda crackers and frosting. I hadn't done this in a long, long time. This is for you dad. Just how I remember them. Salt and sweet together, yummy!

I've included the recipe for the cake here, just in case the pictures were to much for you and you can't stand the temptation.

Texas Sheet Cake

Sift together: 2 cups flour

2 cups sugar

1/2 tst. salt

Bring to boil: 4 Tbsp. cocoa

2 squares margarine

1 cup water

Mix all ingredients together, add 1 cup buttermilk

2 eggs

1 tsp. soda

Bake at 400, for 20 to 25 minutes

Frost while warm.

Frosting

1 cube margarine

4 Tbsp. cocoa

6 Tbsp. canned milk

Add 1 lb. powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Enjoy everyone, we sure did! We ended up bringing 5 of them back home with us. Wow did the White house baker over estimate. But with those new handy, dandy lids they sure did stay fresh, they almost made it 2 weeks.

Pioneer Day!

2011-08-13T08:52:00.023-06:00

Let's get caught up on a few happenings around here, should we. I don't know where the time has gone. Here we are in the middle of August and I am just getting to the 24th of July festivities. Like we always have we attended the rodeo two nights. The first night was a beautiful evening.

Our good friends Bonnie an Doc joined as did some of the family.

Jacob and Angie.

The parade on the 25th. The kids like to sit up high with Grandma and especially because Grandpa keeps bringing the treats from the station.

My favorite part of the parade. Watching the stars and stripes go by. I don't know about you but I get all tingly inside when the colors are posted. What a great country and city to live in.

My sister, Tamara was lucky enough to be in the parade this year. It was her 40th class reunion. She's having to much fun, don't you think? Fourth one over on the top row. Way to go Tamara!

Angie just clowning around. She's a funny girl, isn't she?

The rodeo that night looks a little bit iffy. The black clouds and wind came up just about starting time.

Karas having some fun before the rain came.

And Angie got her donut bites. Yummy, yummy.

Hatch and Thayne talking to the clowns is always one of the highlights of the rodeo.

It did get cold and rainy. We ended up leaving the rodeo early. I think that's a first in about 23 years. We tried to stay covered, but my umbrella was constantly in Stuart and Angie's face. And you can't enjoy the show that way! We brought Karas and Thayne home with us to play while the others waited it out. Better luck next year, I hope.

New White house pictures!

2011-07-31T08:36:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we had family pictures done and I love the one's I have seen for now. I can't wait to see them all. Megan really captured some great moments together. Our once little family is growing by leaps and bounds. Oh, I love this man. This says it all doesn't it?

Hope these find you smiling, because I sure am.

Fiesta Days Quilt Show

2011-07-31T08:09:00.020-06:00

Another Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Quilt show has come and gone. It is always held at the old Jones home on main street located next to the city park. There were lots of great quilts again this year. They have them hanging from every where.Here are few of my entries. They should all look a bit familiar to you as I have shared them on my blog in earlier years. Do you remember any of them? The first one is Button Up Buttercup.

Second one, a baby Twister.

Third and fourth, Skip Around the Block and my scrappy Twister.

When I got there to pick up my quilts after the show. They informed me that Button Up Buttercup had recieved third place for People's Choice. What a nice surprise.

I'll keep pieceing to enter some in next years. Me and sewing, what a great relationship we have together!

And were off!

2011-07-31T08:07:00.013-06:00

This week we will be at Girl's Camp as the hosts. I won't be by a computer so I'm just letting you know I will still be behind. Ghees, when will I get caught up with everything I want to share with you. But I will leave you with this. My quilt for my trailer, it's been in the works for a few months but I was able to sit down and get the borders on it this week. Ramona quilted it for me on Thursday while I was at work. The binding is done and ready to go on. Amongest a couple other projects that are going with me this is the first one that I will work on so I can snuggle with it at bedtime. Yeah, I can check this one off the quilt list.

Have a happy sewing week. And I hope you get lot's of sewing done, I'm going to try and finish a few things while I'm gone so I have more to share with you.

Way behind!

2011-07-27T09:20:00.005-06:00

Wow, I know I've been a little behind lately but I didn't know I had lost 2 whole months and almost a third according to my calendar in the sewing room. I was in there on Tuesday trying to muck out before I sat down to sew and looked up and gave it a glance. You know they say, "How time flies" and these last few months have flown by so fast for us here at the White house. Not many days left on this months calendar page. I won't skip to August quite yet, the cupcake on this page looks to yummy!

Happy end of July already!

The celebration continues...

2011-07-19T22:07:00.080-06:00

here in Utah. We hosted a wedding PART-HE for Jacob and Angie on the 16th. Nothing real fancy and good old fashion BBQ. We served up hamburgers and hot dogs with all thetrimmings including a variety of salads, fresh fruit and for dessert. A yummy donut bar. I think everyone had a good time and loved the food but especially the donuts!

The happy, happy couple.

And our grill master, Stuart himself.

The sign in table with their wedding picture.

Table decorations were the lanterns we used in Idaho and we randomly put fresh flower arrangements and Angie's bridal picture on some of the tables.

McKinley and Thayner Man eating their yummy hot dogs that grandpa grilled for them. What cute kids. Love em' to pieces.

Angie and Kira fixing the serving table. Let's get started.

And now were putting the donut bar together. Now this was the place to be, everyone wanted to help get messy. Even Hatch and John, or did they just want a donut before dinner!

Just about ready.

Hatch's favorite the Maple Ring donut. He was eyeing those little gems all night. He finally got his two and he was satisfied.

The bar is OPEN! Donuts for everyone.

The donut varieties were: Choc. Choc. Cake, Sugar, Glazed, White w/choc icing, zebras, maple, choc. glazed, white cake w/white icing and a big bowl of donut holes. This was so much fun putting together. I haven't seen anything like this done before, have you?

See something you like yet?

Random pictures of some of the guests. My Uncle Blair and wife Jean. This is my dad's brother.

Having a funny moment I guess.

The Davis' and the Shaffers.Kaitlyn and McKinley swiping a treat.Cameron, Jamie and family.The Ainge family. Jared was one of Jacobs bestmen so he got to celebrate with us twice. Isn't he a lucky guy. Yup for sure he is cause he's going to be a daddy in October!

The proud empty nesters.

John and Kira.

And grandma with these two sillies.

Gifts and cards oh my, how fun

What a great way to spend a Saturday night. The weather was beautiful, the food delish and the company just pleasant and the bride and groom are smiling!

Wedding Bliss

2011-07-14T22:47:00.138-06:00

It doesn't look like I'm going to get much posted on the wedding celebration in Idaho. But I do have the pictures loaded for your enjoyment. Watch out there's picture overload. I guess I'm just to tired because it took me forever to load them all!

What a great day for a wedding. July 9th, 2011.

The Happy Couple!

2011-07-11T11:01:00.007-06:00

Introducing the new Mr. and Mrs. Jacob White. Isn't this an amazing picture of such a cute couple? I'll have more to share about their day in a few. Moving onto the Utah celebration for the weekend.

It's Summertime!

2011-07-03T19:48:00.006-06:00

So glad it's summer, time for corn! Can't wait til it Utah's Own though. The way winter acted this year we will have this summer staple way into October. That is if it doesn't decide to freeze early. McKinley loved it. Look no hands! Isn't she corny? No pun intended!

Oh by the way, Happy 4th of July.

Another My Favorite Bag!

2011-06-27T10:25:00.003-06:00

This bag was my sample I used to teach with at the Panguitch Quilt Walk. I had it at different stages to show them during the day. I finally sat down last week and finished up to get it in the shop before Shop Hop.
The fabrics used, Riley Blake. Lola's Posies from Lil Tueller. Isn't it the cutest ever? And if you are wondering about those pink grommets, Dritz is putting them out in packages now. I can't wait to use my red ones.

How many of you out there have made this bag? I would love to see them, send pictures my way. My e-mail address is oohsaahsw@aol.com and we can do a My Favorite Bag "SEW" and Tell. Is this your Favorite Bag too?

AmAzInG!!!!

2011-06-23T08:47:00.004-06:00

I just found this picture in my file and realized I didn't have it in my Shop Hop entry. This is Mary Ann and her most amazinng shop hop quilt. She really did do an outstanding job on it. She had to incorporate each shops block into the quilt some way. She has used them in some of the medallions, yes all paper pieced. She's one crazy lady and I love her. You need to see this work or art for yourself. If your in the area stop in and say hi and take a peek at it. Oh yah, it's at the Corn Wagon Quilt Shop in Springville, Utah. See you soon.

One "Sweet" Bag!

2011-06-21T07:48:00.031-06:00

MaryAnn and Marsha had asked me to make our shop sample using the charm pack of the Cherry Fizz fabrics that the participants would be recieving when they completed the shop hop. Now there's a challenge for ya, but I was up to it. Bring it on. So of course a bag came to mind. Here are the fabrics I had to choose from to go along with the charms. Barbara Jones of Quilt Soup is the designer. My charms and yardage. Ready, set, sew!

And and this is what I came up with. Meet, Simply Cherry, A "SEW" Sweet Bag. Kind of cute don't you think?

The scallop trim is made using the new scallop ruler by Quick Points. It's really nifty and it makes cute binding and trims for quilts. The green accent strip is actually one strip but the way I've stitched it down it almoset takes on the look of bias tape, huh. That was kind of a happy mistake and I like it better than what I was trying to do with it.

The inside features two pockets, seperated for the small stuff you carry in your bag. The tab closure that snaps over the front. I love my green snap, don't you? I wish I would run onto to those again someday. I have used all my colored ones and they add so much color than a regular silver or gold one I think.

In the bag itself I only used 16 charms and I needed to use all 23 so I made a posie from the leftover 7. Then I added a big black button and a crochet doily and a set of cherries, compliments of Riley Blake. They make the cutest accessories, such as pom poms, ric rac, buttons, etc. These just happend to have been in the shop for a little bit, and I thought nobody would want to add them. A perfect match to the black fabric. We could have sold a ton of these things. Isn't it funny that the minute you use something that isn't selling it flies right out the door. I'm sure we can get more of them.

And of course she is in pattern form now. My very first bag pattern, yippy skippy! Not as bad as I thought it would be writing it. I just put it on hold to long, then I was cramming to get it done the day before shop hop. We are selling them in the shop in a kit, with all the fabrics and finishing supplies to make your own bag. Or we do have single copies of it.

Thank you Kira for making such a cute cover for Simply Cherry and in such short notice too. You saved me again.

Any Twilight Quilting Fans?

2011-06-20T08:13:00.046-06:00

Every quilt tells a story. "SEW", what's the greatest quilt you've ever read? This years shop hop attendees got to ponder that question as they visited the 14 shops on the list. Each shop was centered around works of literature. Among some of the books were "Anne of Green Gables", "Treasure Island", "Wizard of Oz" and if you were able to make it into the Corn Wagon you would find out soon enough that we were "Twilight". And look who was there to greet you when you came in, well I know it's Mary Ann and I think this dude with her is a guy named, Edward! Our shop entry was all decked out in black and red Twilight themed parahenellia. And there's Bella looking not so happy about the whole thing! The quilt in the background is a pattern from Crazy Old Ladies. She changed the name just for us to "Breaking Dawn". We put these into kits and they were gone by the first afternoon. There really are some Twilight fans out there, aren't there? Don't hold it againest me, but I don't know anything about these goings on from Adam(inside joke)!

Participants who visited all 14 shops, and got their "library cards" stamped, received a free charm pack of "Cherry Fizz" fabrics from Henry Glasss & Co., and will become eligible to win a variety of prizes. Each shop was asked to come up with a finishing project to use their charm packs. I can't wait to show you the Corn Wagons. I think your going to like it.

Each year the shops are to come up with their own Shop Hop quilt incorporating each others block. Once again Mary Ann has gone overboard. Her quilt is amazing, you just can't believe it. I wish all of you could see this work of art in person. She started with the pattern Hearts & Hands, then she shrunk it 70% and added the shop hop blocks, which are the small paper pieced medallions. Then she appliqued wool shapes on the alternating blocks, which gave it the vintage feel. She added a tiny piping to her binding. Mary Ann doesn't have a clue how many hours she has put into this quilt. It did take her 15 hours to quilt and that's not counting the hours marking it before hand. It's quite something.

One of our freguent quilt shop visitors, Mary Ann's grandson Lincoln. Isn't he adorable. He has the most beautiful long and lucious eyelashes I've ever seen on a baby boy before. Makes me jealous that I don't have them!

And of course games, Minute to Win It, Twilight edition.

Snapping more pictures.

Margene and Marianne with Edward. He got kind of freaky by the end of the day. Everytime I looked up I thought a real man was starring at me.

Mary Ann and Myself with Jacob. Jacob who?

And we mustn't forget about the refreshments. Come in for a "Bite"!

Apples, and cake bites.Red velvet cake bites that is.

The lady behind almost 2000 of these pretty little things is, Lynette. She's been one busy lady making sure these were freshly dipped everyday. What a women!

And remember Mel from last year, well he made it to the Twilight scene this year, and I caught him flirting with Bella. Shame on him!

Now what's on for next year. We will know tomorrow after Marsha has been to Shop Hop meeting. Yup, it takes a year to plan this annual event. And boy do we have fun with it all year long. If you want to see more of the shops involved visit www.utahshophop.com.

Newbies!

2011-06-18T08:00:00.015-06:00

There are a few new quilts hanging around the Corn Wagon lately. It must be shop hop time. This first quilt was made by Marsha, a Miss Rosie pattern, (and corrrect me if I'm wrong) Raise the Barn is the name of it. Uncle Albert from Abbey Lane Quilts. Made with Kaffe Fausett fabrics. Pieced together by Lynette and also quilted by her. Kit available.

Buggy Barn, Stars and Moon. Mary Ann incorporated wools into this pattern. She just returned from Vernal where she taught this to their quilt guild. Very cute, huh? And there is kits for this one to, don't wait.

Appliqued, Watermelons, Bicycles and Stars. Made by Suzanne, the most beautiful appliquer I've seen. This is a Jan Patek design. Yup, we have kits.

I'm sorry I have forgotten the name of this quilt but I do know it comes from the Material Obsession book 1. It's the cutest thing ever. Marianne M. did this one using Amy Butler fabrics and wool scraps.

And there in the downward background is Sew Cherry, a free pattern from Riley Blake using the Sew Cherry fabric line from Lori Holt. This one was made by Margene. This was is also kitted. And there hanging to the left is one that I did about a month ago using the MoMo line Just Wing It.

So while all of the quilts are hung in their finery, stop by and see them and since your there, say hi to Jacob or Edward! More about that later.

Now Pocatello!

2011-06-15T18:11:00.035-06:00

Wow, on the road again. As soon as my class was done on Friday we loaded the trailer and headed north to Idaho. Pocatello to be exact. One end of the state to the other and beyond. We decided to stay in Spanish that night and get up early to make the trek. We pulled in Lava Hot Springs campground just around lunch time and NAP time! Joelle, Angies good friend invited me to a bridal shower there in Idaho. And of course we had to attend. Joelle did a really good job of putting such a fun day together. We played a game and ate the most delicious food.

Everything was amazing. Joelle's mom is a caterer in Idaho Falls.

Chocolate heaven. Hand dipped strawberries and chocolates. Homemade carmels. Yummy!

Angie, Myself and friend, Kelci.

And I forget about the mini cupcakes. Delicious!

Angie got some really fun things. Oh my she has so many new things to fill that new house up, she shouldn't need anything new for years! Her Grandma Scherer had crocheted these hot pads for the two of them using their nicknames. And just in her kitchen colors.Look at all this loot! She got such a variety of things.

We are home now and resting up, well kind of. I'm busy with the Wasatch Shop Hop this week, and busy getting the plans together for our wedding social here in Spanish Fork. I guess you could say the White house is buzzing again.

More of Quilt Walk

2011-06-15T07:43:00.039-06:00

This picture is of the statue I was mentioning in my last post. I just wanted to point out the detail in the quilt. Although the whole statue is amazing, I especially liked the quilt. Here are some random shots of some of the quilts on display.

This is the quilt that was getting all the attention. And it should be. This quilt is simply amazing. It was pieced by Don Locke, DDS of Waxahachie, Texas. It's called The Supper. It has more than 51 thousand squares of one-half inch cotton fabric. It took him 2 1/2 years to complete. The quilt measures 183" x 67". This truly a work of art. It's more beautiful in real life. If you would like more info on the quilt go to http://www.thesupper.net/. He travels around sharing his talent. My good friend Dana from Lazy Daisy Cottage had a vendors booth and was also teaching classes. I just happened upon her and my new friends from Cedar City. Karen and Dorothy.

My Friday's bright and early class was My Favorite Bag. Treats and water for this class as well

Sara and Janet, first time bag makers. Naughty Janet was supposed to be in a quilt class but was a little quilted out from the first day. So between her and her sisters she was able to put a bag together. I had grommets and the pattern so off she went sewing on a bag. She is such a fun girl, I feel honored that she would want to come and sew with me another day.

Gloria and her bag. Gloria came in the Corn Wagon one afternoon that I was working. I asked if I could help her with anything and she held up a picture of a bag and she said she need the supplies to make it. I was taken back just a little because this was the bag I had submitted to the committee for quilt walk. I told her I sure would and I introduced myself as the teacher of that class. It was really fun helping her and getting to know her before hand.

I did it! Janet putting in her first grommet. I must have taught her something in class.

This is Julie and her almost finished bag. A new friend from the Ogden, Utah area. I've seen Julie at the Corn Wagon several times, but never knew her name and location she was coming from.

My favorite bag ladies and their cute, cute, bags. Left to right: Sara(St. George), Gloria(LaVerkin), Myself, Janet(Las Vegas), and Dee(Tucson).

Another awesome day of sewing comes to an end. I'm the luckiest lady in the world to have such great friends from all over, and to think we all met doing the same thing we love. Sewing!

And now were setting up home somewhere new. I wonder where were off too.
Boy, it's been a busy traveling few days. Here's a clue, shower time for Angie!

Quilt Walk Day 1

2011-06-14T07:52:00.031-06:00

We're on our way to the small peaceful town of Panguitch for the 14th annual Quilt Walk. My chauffer knows the way because, one, he's a good driver and 2 we went last year. We followed this vintage trailer for a small amount of the trip. I wonder if she was a quilter and was going the same place we were. The Whitehouse on wheels or the GRDFRC1 as we now call it is an ideal place to live while your away. It has all the luxuries of home.

Just getting set up for the few days we will be spending here. The weather couldn't have been any better. It was gorgeous, but not real hot, yet.

Two of my classes were chosen last fall from many, many entrants. I submitted the Twister quilt and My Favorite Bag. Here I am the first day of class. Both of my classes were full day ones. 8:30 - 5:00 with a hour lunch break. Makes for a long day but sure worth it when you are sewing with such fun ladies. I really had some fun ladies in my classes. My classroom set up. I had taken a bag of goodies and bottled water for all of them. And we played quilt bingo during the day to break things up a bit. And of course there were prizes!

This is Crystal and her completed quilt. She came from Tooele to take my class. She was one speedy sewer.

These three sisters were a hoot. Janet (Las Vegas), Lisa (Dallas), and Christine (Denver). It was their first retreat ever and boy were they trying to get it all in. We had a good time getting to know each other.

Here's the whole gang. Back: Leslie(Cedar City), Karen(Cedar City), Dorothy(Cedar City), Myself, Cheryl(Salt Lake), Mary(Las Vegas), Janet, and Christine. Crystal and Lisa kneeling in front.

After Stuart picked me up we went to visit the new memorial they have put up in the Quilt Walk Park. It's a monument dedicated to the 7 walkers. It was dedicated last October. What a beautiful little park.

There are 7 benches around the park dedicated to each man and a little of his life history is included on top. Notice the quilt block in the cement pad.

The Quilt Walk Story revolves around the initial attempt to settle Panguitch, Utah in 1864. The first winter was brutal, food was scarce and the settlers were starving to death. A group of seven men, with a wagon pulled by two oxen, set out to get food from Parowan, 40 miles away.

In their weakened state the men struggled with every footstep, sinking up to their hips in the deep snow. Eventually they abandoned the wagon and oxen and continued on foot. As they held a prayer circle kneeling on a quilt, they discovered they did not sink in the snow. The men completed their journey by laying quilts over the deep snow and walking across them, retrieving their quilts and repeating the process over and over again. The story came to be known as the Quilt Walk and is treasured in the annals of Panguitch history.

During the weeks activities the city puts on a dinner show depicting the story of the seven brave men. They hold it at the Social Hall there across the street from the park.And of course after supper we had to hit the ice cream parlor, Scoops from the Past. It was a yummy treat. The homemade ice cream is made right there. A definate stop if you are going through town.

This post was getting kind of long so I will continue with Quilt Walk tomorrow.

26 days . . .

2011-06-13T19:47:00.005-06:00

And we can show you all this wedding mayhem put together. Angie has been working her little butt off planning for this big day. We really did find some fun things at Taiwan Imports last week. She's getting just a little bit excited, don't you think?

Nervous I'm sure, though.

Now it's getting Jacob excited about all this stuff!

It's going to be adorable all put together. Can't wait to show what she has come up with. The countdown is on.

We're Jammin'!

2011-06-13T19:23:00.011-06:00

Yummy, yummy! It's time for the homemade strawberry jam. Kaitlyn, Myself and little Teegan got together a couple of weeks ago to make our yearly supply. Wal Mart had strawberries on for $1.29 a box. What a great buy, twenty bucks for two flats. You can't beat that now can you. A few of the ingredients, plus lots and lots of sugar!

Teegan didn't like the noisey blender. This is the face he started with, a sad but cute one.By the time we were all done chopping the strawberries he was into a full blown fit. He hated it, what a screamer he can be! I have never seen him so sad, even the bouncer couldn't calm him down.

Kaitlyn is so proud of herself isn't she? And she has every right to be. It's a good feeling to know you can go to the freezer and pull out one of the jars of fresh jam. She just hopes it lasts a year. It's that good!I have used some of the same bottles year after year. There are some really, really unique jars that came from Stuart's house that he still remembers. Take for instance the bottle with the blue lid. This is an old marshmallow jar that came from his mothers, and year after year it gets filled with jam.

Now bring on the toast!

Spoiled Mom & Pop!

2011-06-08T10:06:00.021-06:00

Jacob and Angie sure do know how to spoil us. For Mother's Day I received a card from Jacob telling me that my gift would be coming in a few days. He showed up with something in his truck. Let's go see what it is should we.Look at this face! Surprise, surprise. I wasn't expecting something quite so big! Wowser, a great gift. But really there was nothing wrong with my old one. It just didn't have many pegs left on the bottom rack and the ones that were left were all rusty. It ran like a charm as long as I added extra water to get the dishes clean and you had turn the t.v. remote volume up when it was washing. So maybe it was time. If you haven't guessed by now these funny kids got me or should I say us a dishwasher.

The card attached to the front said, Happy Mother's Day, Father's Day and Empty Nesters Day, which is coming up July 9th. What a nice thoughtful gift from some awesome kids. It's been Scherer delight having Angie living with us off and on for over two years. They told us it was just their way of saying thank you for letting them live here, rent free. The house will be awfully quiet when they leave.

Our son in law John, the plummer installed it for us. Thanks to him for doing so. It works like a charm.

Thanks Jacob and Angie, we love it.

S O S (Sewing On Selvages)

2011-06-02T21:32:00.021-06:00

Remember this jar of selvages? Well I'm excited to show you what I have made from them. You probably have guessed what it is. If you guessed a bag you are absolutely right. When I was looking for the fabric for my Quilts of Valor quilt I came upon my tub of trimmed selvages. " Today's the day to make something with these", so off on a tangent of all day sewing. The quilt can wait like so many others in there. It was a perfect day for sewing, especially when you have something turn out "SEW" cute. Well I think she's cute anyway. Her name is Miss Selvy
Well so what do you think of her? No pattern, I just made it up as I sewed. I had a vision of what I wanted it to look like. I have plenty of selvages left over to make another. The second will go faster though. I added a front pocket, notice the selvage on the pocket edge. Mrs. Sew & Sew isn't that funny?

Of course, the flower should be out of none other than selvages. The center is a piece of wool and the metal flower is actually a scrapbook brad.

The pockets inside are made from some safety pin fabric that has been in the closet for quite sometime just waiting for the right project. I think I found it. The lining is a aqua needle and thread print that I picked up in Vegas in January. Perfect! A red polka dot cell phone pocket. Another oldie but goodie.

A zippered pocket also in the lining.

Miss Selvy's back side!

Such a variety of strips. You may recognize some of them. I bet you will find some of these in your stash. Am I right?

You want to get started on one for yourself now? Start saving those selvages, there really is a use for them. Miss Selvy will be going to work with me on Tuesday's and Thursday's. Stop in and meet her.

Christmas already!

2011-06-02T08:24:00.007-06:00

Two beautiful days with no rain, but look what was waiting at the shop to be unpacked. It's beginning to look like Christmas!! It's Over the River from Barbara Jones of QuiltSoup for Henry Glass Fabrics. Do you feel like sewing Christmas projects yet? I think I'll wait a day or two, how 'bout you!

So what do you think? Pretty cute, huh.

The Picnic Quilt!

2011-06-01T07:46:00.004-06:00

Here's the picture that accidentally got deleted from my last post. Angie's quilt was made mostly from scraps that I had in these two great colors. I used a Pie Plate Pattern, called Floating Square. You know if I can put this thing together in a day and get it to the quilter the next it's super simple to put together. I did cheat a little, I guess if you call binding it by my machine, cheating! My favorite after the quilt is done and back from the quilter is the binding, and I usally hand bind everything, but one, I was running out of time and two I thought if this was going to be used as a picnic quilt I wanted it good and sturdy. So what are your feelings on machine vs. hand binding? Did I cheat? Have a happy sew day, Shannon

April Showers, Bring More Showers!

2011-05-29T12:14:00.072-06:00

Bridal that is! Me and the girl's (Kira & Kaitlyn) hosted a bridal shower for Angie last weekend. We chose a good old fashion picnic for the theme and used her wedding colors to decorate, which are red and aqua. With all the crappy weather we have been enduring lately we actually had a beautiful day for a picnic. Angie got to meet family and friends from our side of the family. Look at all the fun and exciting gifts she got. By the time showers are all over with they won't need a wedding!! Here are a few pictures of the decorations and food. The menu consisted of chicken salad sandwich's on Hickory Kist bread and wrapped in red checked tissue paper. The side dishes were potatoe salad, baked beans, veggie skewer, chips and mini cupcakes for dessert.

For drinks we served lemon water and bottled root beer. Even the ants came to the picnic!

A little bling to the fresh flower arrangements.

Our utensils were wrapped in red checked napkins then placed in a Kerr canning jar along with the straws. I then placed them in an old canning rack and added an old thermos full of flowers in the center. I even broke out my antique picnic basket for the occasion which I had to empty fabric before we could use it. Now, that doesn't surprise you does it?

There's that famous potatoe salad my mom always made and even in that same bowl. Kira was taught by mom how to make it and she has mastered it well. It was delish!

The drinks and cupcakes.

The gift table, with a picnic quilt to cover borrowed from the Corn Wagon.

How cute are these? Very yummy too!

Treat yourself to some candy on the way out. Buttermints, Sixlets and watermelon slices.

The White house girls. Kira, Myself, Angie and Kaitlyn.

Angie and her mom, Becky. She drove from American Falls, Idaho to join us. I'm so glad see could make it.

Becky has been very busy getting this gift ready for Angie. She gave her a scrapbook full of CD's and pictures with all her childhood activities. What a treasure. Hum, I wonder if I could hire her to do Jacob's now!

Grandma and Karas.

On each invitation we assigned the different first that Angie and Jacob will have together. How fitting that I got first picnic. I think that one was probably rigged! So for my gift I put together things they can use on a first picnic. She had to unload everything before she got to the good stuff in the bottom. What else, a quilt! (Opps, just deleted the picture and I can't get it to load back in the order. I'll show you that in a seperate picture I guess. Uhh, that makes me mad!) This is my sister Tamara and her daughter Karissa.

Angie and Karas opening gifts. Karas was a big help that day.

DeAnne Ainge and her daughter Haley Hughes. Some good, good friends of ours.

This is my Aunt Dale and her daughters Susan and Lori. We are so lucky to have such wonderful family support. Dale is my dad's sister.

My sister Jan and grand daughter, Phara.

Jennie (Taylor) Wright, a good friend and ex-employee of the Oil Spout.

This is my cousin Lana, Kaitlyn and Teegan.

And I have some of the best friends in the whole wide world. This is part of the club girls and you can count them in on anything. Among eleven of us, three of us have weddings in the next few weeks of each other. Camille, Jan, Myself, Melba and Sharon always in for a good time.

Sorry for such a long post, but I didn't want to leave out any of the details. As you can see we had a wonderful afternoon enjoying each others company, gifts and what else, food. Thanks everyone for making Angies day so special. Now onto the wedding plans!

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-28T08:19:00.007-06:00

What a great weekend to post about this quilt. The Flag of Valor quilt, fabric and pattern by Minick and Simpson, for Moda. Isn't it beautiful It's a perfect quilt for remembering our brave men and women serving our country. And what a great way to show our patriotism. I want to hang this one outside. Don't want to go to all the fuss gathering your fabrics, well then come see us at the Corn Wagon. We can hook you up with a kit. We even have the flag bunting for sale. Don't wait too long, cause they are going fast. E-mail me or the shop and let's get one shipped out to you. Maybe I should of gotten started on it before this weekend. I'll shoot for the 4th of July so I can hang it outside on the porch. But I didn't say it would be this year or next. Your just going to have to wait and see.
I'm off to the sewing room, should I clean, cut or sew? The last sounds the funnest but if I want to sew on this quilt I'll have to cut. Hum, what's a girl to do? Whether you are traveling, camping, picnicing, horse riding, etc. Make sure you have a happy and safe holiday weekend.

Visit http://www.qovf.org/ to see some of the different Quilts of Valor put out by other fabric companies or a way you can get involved in such a great program.

Testing Complete!

2011-05-27T08:03:00.025-06:00

And I think I passed them both. Kati Cupcake notified me that she needed testers for some of her new patterns to be released in just a few short weeks. She sent me the patterns for her cute new bags. Besides Amy, I am the only other sewer to make them. Just call me lucky! They were fabulous to make. It was my task to watch for typo's, make sure the cutting instructions were clear, and watch for any unclear steps. I didn't find much that needed to be changed. So without further adew here is Simply Delecious and My Little Favorite Bag. The first two photo's are the cover's of Amy's bag patterns.

First my Simply Delicious. This pattern actually comes in two sizes. I chose to make the large one. The fabric I used is from the new line Sew Cherry from Lori Holt for Riley Blake Designs. This fabric reminds me of a line of fabric that was out a few years ago called "Swell" from Moda. I think that's why I like it "sew" well.

The strap is something I haven't seen on a bag yet. Amy really did put some detail into the strap. It's really clever.

Big outside pockets.

And check out the bias trimmmed bottom. Very cute isn't it? And it makes for great stabalization.

Large inside pockets, my favorite in a bag.

I think you are really going to like this next bag. Remember her pattern for My Favorite Bag, well she has downsized it just a smidge or two. It's perfect for day use or perfect for an on the go sewing bag or diaper bag. It was fun using the 1" grommets.

The fabric on this bag is a hodge podge of pieces I had in my stash. Let's see if I can remember them. The main bag and inside pockets(the green polka dot) is from the Moda line Make Life which was out last spring. The outside pockets, bottom and straps came from Hobby Lobby. The sash is something new we have at the shop, oops I've drawn a blank on that one.

The lining fabric is It's a Hoot from MoMo in turquoise. And my snap is a bright pink one that was at JoAnn's one day when I was in shopping for something else. I haven't see them since. Darn it, I really like the colored snaps. So if you ever see them in there, let me know would ya.

So what do you think of these cute bags? I think they are darling and are going to be a big hit in the sewing world, especially with all the "Bag Ladies" out there. Thanks Amy for giving me the opportunity to sew for you again. And it was great visiting with you at market. I can't wait for the patterns and your new fabric line to come out.

Hip Hip Hooray!

2011-05-25T08:45:00.009-06:00

It's Karas' day. Happy Birthday to a sweet, funny and loveable little girl. Karas turned six on the fifth of May. She really did have some fun new things to play with. This little girl has had a few bumps on her journey of life. But boy is she overcoming them. In the last nine months of school she has really progressed. What great teachers we have in our schools that can give the special help that she needs.
She was so happy with her new bike and helmet and couldn't wait to get outside to ride it. Grandpa and Uncle Jacob can help her out. Ride, Karas ride! It's all about the cake! Karas had her own little cupcake(not so little though)to play in. She had green frosting from one end to the other. Oh the fun of being six again! Eat up, it's all for you. We love you Karas and are so happy to have such a sweet little girl in our lives. Keep up the good work.