Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Todd, Ed, and Troy

I've sadly neglected telling everyone about my other brother Ed. He's my little brother, okay younger is a more appropriate word. He's 21 and 6'5" and 215lbs. He is the one in the center of the picture. His friend Todd is my "little brother" too. We had their graduation reception out at his dad's garage. He calls my mom "mom" and he's part of the family. He was there for Ed when my grandparents died and Jim and I had significant others. Troy the guy in the red went to school with both of them. Ed and Todd just showed up with a fifth wheel camper and they are mowing the lawn and getting ready to park it for the weekend. We live a mile and a half from where the wedding is, so they will probably just walk home and crash in it after the dance so there won't be any drunk driving. Paul and I might do the same. Anyway I'm printing pictures to hang up at my mom and dad's and found this one so I thought I would share.


Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
Your brother is a big guy all right. It sounds like you are going to have SUCH a good time at the wedding and all weekend with everyone around. Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
He certainly is a big guy. Wow what a great time you're having. Just have yourself a blast this weekend.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by sunshine
You have the best time with your brother and his friends. Put the car keys somewhere else and party!!! You can't beat special times such as weddings and family fun.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
You two look alike in the face. I sure hope all goes well this weekend. Can't wait to see plenty of photos. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by cowgirl4ever
I call my brother Ryan my little brother too.. but in all reality I am the littlest one of them all. My 4 brothers (3 older 1 younger) are all over 6ft tall and I wouldn't even begin to estimate weight because they all vary.... smiles
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
You guys are going to have such a great time this weekend. I want pictures! Lots of pictures!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - A trip to town

Mom and I made our trip to town today. We left the house by 7:00 am and were there by7:30am for coffee with her friends. One of the ladies daughters just got married, so we got to see pictures. We ran our errands and I found the fabric I wanted to use for the mission statement quilt I'm going to make after the wedding. We had about 15 min. to spare before my haircut so we looked in the store in town that has three different buildings on the main street. It just kills me, but they have three buildings, with a different store in between each. You bring all your purchases to the one building and pay for it. The doors are just open on the other two, no one working there! I guess that is small town for you. I got a nice short haircut and now I feel a lot better. I attempted to stain my moms quilt rack and window frame. I've decided I'm not a stainer. I'll leave that to Paul, my carpenter boyfriend. My other brother and his friend arrive tomorrow, so it will be a full day. Thanks for all the comments on my pictures from yesterday. I'll try to post some of the wedding after it is over.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
It sounds like you are having such a great time this week getting ready for the big day. A family wedding is always such a fun time. We had one once in Minnesota and we all traveled there and stayed in the same hotel. What fun we had and we even had T shirts printed that said " I survived Mike and Katie's wedding". What a fun picture that was the day after with all of us in our T shirts. Remember to stop, breathe and enjoy the whole thing.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Wow, I am getting nervous and it's not even my wedding! Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 - Church Banner

This is the banner my mom, aunt, and I made for the local church in memory of my grandparents. We hung the quilt behind the alter, which is where there normally is one hanging. I made the four blocks that were paper pieced with the little lines. They were extremely difficult1 My aunt did the cross blocks that were simple and the maroon cross parts and my mom did the applique and put all the blocks, borders and binding on. We had a lady quilt it and it looks like there are rays coming out of the quilt. I was fixing my pictures on moms laptop to upload my dress and saw this one and thought I would share.


Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
What a special way to honor your grandparents' memory! Thanks for sharing!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lori
That is special what a wonderful tribute to your grandparents memory .
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
Very beautiful! A nice momento to your grandparents. Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
What a great way to honor your grandparents. It turned out very nice. Thank you for sharing the picture with us.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That's georgeous! You did an excellent job.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
That is such a precious memory! You all did a wonderful job. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by maryann64
What a wonderful way to honor your grandparents. People will look at it and know how much they were loved and respected. I know it is so nice to have beautiful things to look at when you are in a church. Hugs Mary Ann
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 - Jim & Adele's Wedding Quilt Label

Here's a picture of the label I designed on my mom's software program and embroidered out for Jim and Adele's wedding quilt. I think it turned out really well. I'm so impressed with myself for actually getting it labeled. I put what is says below since it might be hard to read in this picture. On the label it is really easy to read.

He roped her heart from the start, She caught him hook, line, and sinker,
They join as one that will not part.
James & Adele Harty
September 1, 2007
When I give to you
what I make with my hands,
I share my heart and love.
Made especially for you by
Moneik Harty 2007
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
That saying is adorable! I am sure they will love it!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Great label for the quilt. They are going to just love it and cherish it for years. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That's so cute! They're gonna love it!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
That is so precious! I love it! Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by maryann64
Nice Job you are a poet and don't know it. I know they will love it. Hugs Mary Ann
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 - Wedding outfit almost ready

Well I have a dress to wear! and a jacket and purse to go with it. I still have a little handwork to do on the dress, but for the most part it is done. My mom made the jacket for me (I wasn't getting my sewing done fast enough!) Tonight after I got done with my work for the day, I made the runaround bag out of the scraps from the dress. I hadn't intended to make it, but I needed some sewing time, the machine and serger were set up and threaded with the right thread and my mom had the perfect zipper in her stash. I used her BSR to do the stippling on it, then put the zipper in and serged it together. I love it and I think it will be great to have my camera, extra card, extra battery, money, and kleenex in for the wedding. I think the dress looks huge and I'm not really that big, but more the way the fabric lays.
Today mom and I spent cleaning. My mom did a lot a couple weeks ago, but living in the country we have a ton of dirt, so we went room by room and dusted, vaccuumed, and put up the curtains she had washed. I decorated with her quilts, quilts I made her, and put everything away. This will be the first time a lot of our family has been to the house, so my mom wants everything perfect. The vaccum started smoking and so we quit, called the neighbor and borrowed hers. My dad looked at it tonight and we had picked up a cigarette lighter and it had gotten caught up in the fan. Luckily it didn't start a fire! I don't know where it came from as no one in my familly smokes. We got the bedrooms, living room, and sewing room done. Still have the bathroom and kitchen to do, but will do those tomorrow afternoon. Company starts arriving Thurs. Tomorrow we are headed to Philip, the town near us, so I can get a haircut, eyebrows done, and buy groceries. I'm also going to hit the variety store for some fabric. We are going really early so my mom can have coffee with her friends at 7:30. That is really what she misses being out in the country, so I said I thought we should go. I think she needs to see her friends and share the excitement of the wedding. I just finished watching the Nightline special on Senator Tim Johnson's recovery from his brain mva. He is our senator, so I found it really interesting.


Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
Your dress is gorgeous!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
I love the fabric of the dress and jacket! It's just beautiful! The purse is the crowning touch.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
What a great outfit. I can't wait to see pictures of you in that dress and the jacket is perfect for it. Cute purse too. I'm getting all excited and I'm not even going to the wedding. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
You did a great job! I hope we get to see a picture of you in it!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Wow, those are beautiful. I love the color. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Monday, August 27, 2007 - Sewing all day long!

Today was sewing day! My mom and I have projects for each day, because we have a lot to accomplish. Today was the day we had to get all the sewing done. Mom finished the bridesmaids dress while I embroidered the label for the wedding quilt. It turned out really good, so I'll try to post a picture tomorrow. Then I embroidered pillowcases, one with Jim and one with Adele and then put the quilt in them and tied it with the extra binding. The present is ready! Then on to my dress. Mom helped me and she made me a bolero jacket to match. There is a little hand work to do, but it is done for the most part. Tomorrow is cleaning day and Wed. we have to go to town so I can get a haircut and get some fabric or another project. I want to embroider our schools mission statement. I have it all designed on the software, but I just need fabric to stitch it out on. Mom had an amazing embroidery machine and software, so it is really easy for me to make things that are special. I helped dad put in a new kitchen faucet tonight, but the pipes didn't fit, so he'll have to get new ones tomorrow. Well I need to get to sleep. Lots to do and I'll be checking in. My parents have three computers, so it's easy to get on at least a few times a day.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Monday, August 27, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
You have been one busy lady. Can't wait to see all of the photos... kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 28, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
I love hearing about all you're doing to get ready for the wedding. It reminds me of the week before my own with last minute sewing and craft projects!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Sunday, August 26, 2007 - New Boots and super busy!

Wow! Everyone has been super busy this weekend. I feel like I have done a lot, but nothing sewing related. Friday after work I met Paul, my little bro Ed and my mom and we went to the PRCA rodeo at the fair. They have the best rodeo in our region and a lot of NFR (National Finals Rodeo) contenders there. JJ Elshere, who won the NFR 10 rounds last year, and I went to grade school/high school together and he rode Fri. night. His family lives about 5 miles from my parents, so we know him well. Chad Ferley who won the NFR Saddlebronc world title last year also rode. Jeff Willert who won the year before was also there. Those are just a few of the ones we know and several of my former students rode as well. It was a great rodeo. It was also Tough Enough to wear pink night and any cowboy who wore pink and won, got extra money. It's a big Breast cancer awareness night at the rodeo.
Sat. morning I knew I had so much to do that I was wide awake at 5 AM. I stayed in bed til 6:45 and finally got up and did laundry, pedicure, took my nails off, and packed all before 9! I am not a morning person, so this was a shocker. I went and got French tip nails put on for my brothers wedding, had breakfast with Paul and his mom ( I haven't seen her several weeks since I've been on the go!), and then Paul and I went shopping. He needed new black jeans and a wine western shirt for the wedding. We went to four stores and finally he is ordering the shirt in his size and it will be here Wed. I went looking for new pink boots and ended up with brown Fat Baby boots by Ariat. They are so comfy and really nice to wear. I also ended up with a teal shirt for the dance and a wine shirt for the rehearsal supper. I dropped off my machine for its service since I'll be home all week and not using it.
Paul and I met up with my parents and had supper then I came home with them. We got home just after midnight and had church this morning at 7AM! I don't do mornings, so this was too early. Then mom and I worked on cleaning up her sewing room, so tomorrow we can sew. I need to make my dress, embroider the pillowcases and make them, embroider the label for the wedding quilt and hand sew it on, and embroider some words for a quilt I am making for work. Mom has to finish the hems on the three bridesmaid dresses. Luckily she has two sewing machines, so I'll embroider while she's working and then I can sew when she is done. She has a serger too, so I didn't have to bring mine home. Tonight we went to town (30 miles) for the presentation of the memorial money from my grandparents to the Ambulance service. They are all volunteers and saved my grandpa's life twice, so we gave a donation for them to buy 4 Baby Annie and 1 Toddler Kyle maniquiens to train on for CPR. My aunt came and her, my mom and I presented the check to the service at their meeting. Tomorrow bright and early we are sewing! Have a sewful week. I'll try to keep you updated as the week goes on. Five days till the wedding!
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Monday, August 27, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Wow, 5 more days! That is not long...I hope all goes well. I have a pair of those boots and they are VERY comfortable. What mine are just the 2 tone brown. Maybe after the wedding you can slow down alittle... Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Monday, August 27, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Wow I got tired just reading all that you've done and still have to do. You must be so excited with the wedding coming up so close. I just know you're going to have a great time and I'm sure you'll take lots of pictures to share with us. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Monday, August 27, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Wow...you are soooo busy!! I know you'll get everything done though! You're a trooper! Have a blast; will you be checking in at all?
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 23, 2007 - Exhausted!

I'm completely exhausted, but having a great time this week. Tues. night mom and I went to Bombshell and Craig Morgan. They were both really good shows. Last night we went to Hancocks for a pattern fitting class. It was a promo for this pattern system, but it was really interesting to learn how to fit patterns to our body size. We got the tools to use to make the contours different. We both learned a lot and my mom took tailoring in college, so she thought it was new to her too. We had planned to go to Joe Nichols at 8:30, but when we left at 8 it was pooring rain, so we went to my little bros house instead and I went home. I was home by 9! Paul, his mom and I visited for a while, so it was nice to catch up with them. Tonight we are going to the PRCA rodeo and will do so Fri & Sat. as well. Paul is going to come those nights. The guys we know who are riding will ride tomorrow night. I am so looking forward to vacation! 1 day and counting!
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 23, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
You sound sooooooo busy! Have fun at the rodeo. Richard rode for a couple of seasons here at the Bar W. He did the bull riding...I begged him to stop and he eventually did. I love watching it as long as it's not MY husband. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 23, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Wow, it doesn't sound like you'll be slowing down with your vacation either. Is this the week a year you and your mom sew??
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 24, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by maryann64
Hi not surprised you are exhausted. Keep on trucking. Hugs Mary Ann
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Tuesday, August 22, 2006 - Life Curves

I guess instead of saying life takes turns, I've been on curves for the last few months. I finished the three tops and finally got them quilted. I got the wedding present done for Nic & Becca. Since then I actually have done quite a bit. I made a picture quilt for my dad for fathers day. That took most of May and June. Then I made three "Car" baby blankets and a table runner for a coworkers wedding. I made a red hat's quilt for my moms birthday and then a wall hanging for my godparents. At the end of July my mom's dad and my dad's mom were both really bad. Grandpa died Aug. 5th and Grandma died Aug 7th, so it was a whirlwind week of funerals and family. Thankfully neither had to suffer and are in heaven with their spouses of 55 years each. Hopefully I'll make it that long! A coworker and I wanted to make a picture quilt for our boss who is leaving Aug. 31. She collected the pictures when I was gone and we both made half the blocks. I sewed them together on Sat. and it's ready to baste and quilt this coming weekend.I love having a project to work on though. It's fair time so we are going to concerts or rodeos every night. I entered 6 quilts. I got two seconds and 4 thirds. I didn't expect to get first because those are the ones that are completely hand appliqued and or quilted and have hundreds of tiny pieces. I consider mine the other kind, the usable loveable hugable quilts that look nice, but aren't artistic and just for show. My boyfriends mom and I took a Woven Star class from my mom right before my grandparents died. I got mine done, but she didn't so I still need to help her. It is the first quilt project she has ever made. She only has to quilt it and bind it. Hopefully I'll get some pictures uploaded soon. I have done a good job of taking the pictures, but don't quite get them in my journal.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by llcathey2001
So sorry to hear about your grandparents but it is a blessing when they don't suffer. Sounds like you've really been busy making quilts can't wait to see some pictures. Lynda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 24, 2006 - Busy
Posted by Luv2SewandSew
Wow you've been a busy lady! I wish I had your accomplishments! Can I send you my projects?! LOL! I am sorry to hear of your Grandparents but you're right - they're together and that's what counts! Enjoy your precious memories of them and it will make it easier for you! Take care, Michelle
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 - Whirlwind Weekend!

Wow this was really a whirlwind weekend! There were so many posts to catch up on today. Seems like I am running and won't stop until after the wedding. Friday night Paul dropped me off with my mom and we went to the mall to pick up a gift and eat. We had just gotten done when they stuck us in the storm shelter! There were tornados touching down and baseball size hail and extreme flooding. We spent an hour there before we were able to leave. We headed for Adele's house about 1 1/2 hours away. We got there about 10 and went right to bed. My brother Jim and my dad had spent the night too. We got up at 3 AM and left at 4 to go to CO. Adele's parents live down in the sand hills and we were going to attend her bridal shower. We made it to her parents by noon and went to the shower then we all went to her parents for supper. The girls went to a bar down the road for her bachelorrete party. We had a good time, but oh we were tired. Her sisters live 1 1/2 hours and 8 hours away, so we had all had short nights. She loved the run around bag I made her. Her mom loved her purse too and her favorite color is blue! I'm really good... no really I just made it and had no clue that she liked blue. Sunday morning we left about 11:30 and came back to Adele's house. Mom and I stayed over night and came back yesterday. We both worked and then went to the Neal McCoy/ Taylor Swift concerts at the Central States Fair. I'm exhausted but had a great time. I still have to get my dress done, but I do have next week when I am at mom and dads on my vacation. Tonight mom and I are going to Craig Morgan and Bombshell. Should be another good concert. I feel like I haven't touched my sewing machine in ages! She's going in for a cleaning next week while I'm on vacation, so I won't miss her too much. Guess I better get back to work.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
WOW, you have been busy but it sounds like you had a fantastic time. I can't believe you were in such storms. How awful. Storms are bad enough; but storms when you're away from home are the worst. I was stuck in Hurricane Michelle back in 2001 ON A CRUISE SHIP. All I wanted was to go home.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by maryann64
My Goodness you are busy it sounds like a lot of fun. The weather has been crazy this summer. We either have hot humid weather or it feels like fall. Please be safe when you are out and about. I remember Hurricane Hazel now I'm showing my age. We lived next to Lake Ontario and I was 14 or so just standing at the fence watching the water when mom came out and was quite upset with me. LOL. Hugs Mary Ann
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by sunshine
The weather has been awful this year and my family is still recovering from the tornado in Greensburg, Kansas. With a click of the hand all your material things can be gone. It really makes me more thankful for life itself after seeing all the destruction people have endured this year. I'm glad you were all okay. It sounds like you guys have a blast. I enjoy all kinds of music and entertainment and about thirty miles from us Randy Pardon (Dolly's brother) just open a Theater. Concerts are so much fun.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Sounds like you had a busy weekend! I hate storms! They make me so nervous. When Andrew was real little we were in a tornado in OH. Luckily we were not hurt but the peoples house that we were visiting was a total loss. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Adele's Run Around Purse

This is the run around bag I improvised from the pictures Jen and Hazel had. I went to buy the pattern last night and it was sold out and they only had the sassy bag, but that wasn't really what I wanted, so I made it up. I got this fabric for Adele since she is a cowgirl. Since Kristie is in KY, I think it's safe until I give it to her. I was invited to her personal shower/ girl's night out party this weekend while we are in CO, so I wanted something special for her. I put a fun shot glass, body lotions and shower gel from Bath and Body, a massager, and candles in it. Since we aren't real close, I didn't want to get something too personal. I think she will like it. I was going to make the wonder wallet to match since I have that pattern, but I ran out of time. I was making the purse last night and couldn't for the life of me get my serger to work. It hasn't worked since Sat. when I sewed my fat quarter purse. It's a brand new Bernina, and I just couldn't get it to work, it kept skipping stitches. I took it in tonight and the owner looked at it and said it definately wasn't my fault, something was up and he couldn't figure it out in the few minutes he had, so I left it and he is going to fix it. I finished the purse with a zig zag on my other machine. It worked great. Guess I'm learning to adapt. We leave tomorrow afternoon to go to Adele's and will leave from there for CO at 3AM on Sat.


Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Oh it turned out really great. I really like it. Great job. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
I sure wish you were my SIL, then I would be getting all of these nice gifts! I love that fabric. You are killing me with these beautiful fabrics. I think you buy them to tease me with :o) I'm sure she will love the purse, I made one for the big yard sale a couple of weeks ago and it came in soooooo handy. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by
Oh how cute!! That is some neat fabric...........where do you get all these western themed fabrics?? I got this one at Hancock's Fabric and most of the others at Fabric Warehouse... Both in Rapid City SDEdited by MoneikQuilts on Thursday, August 16, 2007 at 11:51 PM
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lori
You did a great ,job love the fabric
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
That is just too cute! I know some people who would just love it! Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That turned out way cute!!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Ugly Fat Quarter Table Topper

This is the tabletopper I made for the Ugly Fat Quarter swap on Carol Doak's website. The "ugly" is the middle block. There were a couple of the same square on the fat quarter, but they were printed off grain. I couldn't get this to work out the best since it was off grain. I used two Carol Doak patterns from her Simply Sensational 9 patch book. I hate fabric that is printed off grain, especially since it was a block and there was no straightening to it. It's due out Aug. 31. Remind me never again to do something with a deadline when I am going to be gone on vacation.

Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
I love your "ugly" center. The block turned out beautiful. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
I really like the block and the center. I guess I don't see anything ugly about it. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Trina
I kinda like the "ugly" center.........
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lori
There's nothing ugly about it ,great job
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
I like the block. I can see that the center is slightly kiddy wampus, but if you hadn't said something I doubt I would have noticed. Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
I hope I remember to never join an ugly fat quarter swap! Yours did turn out great though!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Postcard Swap postcards

I finally took a picture of the postcards I received in the 2007 postcard swap. This is the one Jen and I had so many problems with. They are from Monica, Jan, Jen (renegade swap), Cathy, William, Carol, and Ana. I'm really trying to update my quilt journal.

Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Wow, those are so cute! I have been making some for Christmas to send instead of the normal Christmas Card. I also recieved the Watermelon postcard from Jen, I have it sitting here on my computer desk. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Those are all really cute. I've been thinking of doing some like Krisie said for Christmas cards for certain people. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Trina
I bet that was fun getting those in the mail!! I really like the blue one with the lady on it!! I saw a book with instructions for these, I should have gotten it, these look like they would be so much fun to make and to give!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lori
this are great an so easy to make ,how lucky to have had them sent to you .
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
Very nice!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
They're all so different and so cute! Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Those are really cute!! Anything interesting going on in that group? I've been "No mail" since that episode!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Monday, August 13, 2007 - Pretty Purses

Okay I lied, I got a burst of energy and came down to print some pictures, so I just took pictures of the purses while I was waiting for the other pictures to print. The first is the Horse purse. I am such a big fan I don't think I'll be able to give it away like I had originally intended.


This one is the blue/purple batik with the decorative stitches. I really think this is pretty too, but I made it for Sandy, Adele's mom, and I really hope she likes it.

This is my new prize purse, made especially for me. I really liked the one I made for mom, but this one is a little more my style, with lots of pockets. I think it will come in handy when we go to the quilt stores this weekend and I have room to stuff my purchases.

Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Monday, August 13, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by cowgirl4ever
Wow I really like the horse one too.. I definately wouldn't be able to give that up..LOL they all look great. Heather
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Monday, August 13, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lori
You've been busy ,There all nice but I like the fabric in the last one .
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
I'll be waiting for my purse to arrive! :o) They are all beautiful, but you know the horse is my favorite! I love it! Krisite
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - Great job
Posted by born2quilt
I really like them. I especially like the blue one! I like the embroidery on it. Good job, Stephanie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
I love them!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Vera
I like them all, my favorite is the horse one...
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by scissorhandscps
Wow nice bags!!! You have a lot of nice stuff on your blog. Maybe stuff will start slowing down arund here in a bit and I'll be able to keep up better :0)
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 15, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Wow those are great I love each and everyone of them. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Your purses turned out great! Which pattern are you using for these?
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Monday, August 13, 2007 - Purses galor!

Well I'be been making purses left and right! I was waiting for Paul Sat morning so we could go run errands and I didn't know what I was going to do, so I went to my sewing studio. I had seriously considered making my brothers fiance a purse, because I saw a really cute one with a leather bottom and brown suede and a cowgirl pictured pocket at Chili's Friday night. That is really more her style than my black/white purse. Well I didn't find what I was looking for, so I pulled out some more of the fabric I used for my mom's purse and made one for myself. Mine's a bit different, but still way cute! We went shopping and when we go home I made stromboli and while that was raising and cooking, I made my purse. It was a little too thick for my serger as I used Pellon 70 instead of fleece. The zipper went in really easy so I was happy! I tried working on my dress, but at 9 when I sewed a seam wrong, I just quit.
Sunday I slept in then worked on my homework all afternoon. I work for an online university and one of the benefits if you will call it that is after a year we can take undergraduate classes for no tuition! I have a bachelors in speech communication education and some day want my masters, but that's not in the cards right now, so I decided to take business classes and broaden my horizons. I took Prin. of Management last quarter and passed it with flying colors and now I'm taking Prin. of Marketing. It is really easy and I have learned a lot, especially about the way online marketing is done. Sure makes you realize how much work goes into getting our money. I have used the local sewing store as my target company and Bernina/Janome as examples. So far my teacher thinks I'm doing a great job and I've learned a lot about these companies. But I have to have my homework done by midnight on Sunday and wouldn't you know I always leave it till Sun! This week is finals, so I have a lot to get done and won't be leaving it till the weekend since we are going to CO. This really cuts into my sewing time though!
After I got done I talked to my mom, since we were planning our CO trip and looking for quilt shops in the Ft. Collins area. She reminded me that I need to take Adele's mom a hostess gift since we are spending the weekend there. Being the creative person I am, I decided I would make her a ........ you guessed it..... A PURSE! Well Adele is a western person, so I took out some scraps and make a horse/rope/brown purse. I'll have to take pictures later. I know Kristie would steal it if she was here. It is way cute, but I tried to change thread and I had a total mess. I finally just quit! Tonight I worked on the serger, got it working, and I got the seams done. I just have to sew the handles on now. Well it was way to cute to give it away, so I decided to use a blue/purple batik and make her mom a different one since maybe she isn't as western as Adele is. I used decorative stitches and varigated thread and it turned out well. I'm pleased and I think I'll put some lavendar water in a spray bottle in it and call it good. My mom is making her a little table topper, so I think we have the hostess part covered. Well I better get to bed. I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow. Maybe I'll even get to the pictures tomorrow!
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Monday, August 13, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Hey, don't leave me hanging! I need photos of these purses! And where is mine??? Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Wow, You're just turning out the purses left and right. I think she'll love anythign you make her!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Bad dress

I worked hard on sewing my dress for the wedding last night at Sit and Sew. I was working on the back and went to press the seam when the mini iron all of a sudden melted a hole right through the dress! I was so upset, I literally freaked. I ended up recutting the piece out of what would have been a jacket. Oh well, guess that I didn't need the jacket or maybe I can get more fabric. I am so frustrated that maybe I'll find something in CO and scratch the whole idea. Guess we'll see what happens. I gave up on it tonight and worked on my hardanger.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Done that!
Posted by born2quilt
I have done this more than once. Last week I cut the fabric for a quilt lenth wise and then didnt have enough space to use the remainder as the backing. I would have if I had cut the strips correctly in the first place. I had to piece the back, which is not my usual. I am such a perfectionist with my quilts. Stephanie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Oh no! That's terrible! I would have died. But I'm sure all will work out fine in the end. KRistie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
I've had that happen to me too. It's such a terrible feeling! I hope you can get it all to work yet. Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
I really would have given up and headed straight to the store! Ohhhh you must have been soooo mad!!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Wedding Quilt Finished!

This is the FINISHED wedding quilt. It turned out really well and I'm impressed with it. I used a bias binding and the closeup shows that by doing this I got the straight print at a cool diagonal. I am so excited to be done with it and the wedding is still 3 weeks away!


Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
Nice job! and congrats on getting it done ealry!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Trina
Very nice!! Love the fabric pattern and the colors
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Excellent!
Posted by born2quilt
I love this, especially the colors. The bias binding is a great idea. It gives it just the right touch. Doesn't it feel good to get it done early? Steph
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
Way to go it looks fantastic and I love the colors. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Vera
Too cute! Love the little boot fabric and the binding looks great. I just had a customer ask me today how to do bias binding, she is scared to death to do it.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Of course you know this one is my favorite! I love it! Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
Well, aren't you just the early bird! Good job! It looks very nice. I'm sure they'll love it. Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That is AWESOME!! I couldn't for the life of me figure out why you wanted bias binding on a straight quilt!! Now I totally get it! It turned out great.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by sewsue
Great quilt and that binding is really something great. Love the fabrics. Sure are lucky people to get this quilt for a gift.
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Wedding Shower Deer Wall Hanging

This is the deer wall hanging I made for Jim and Adele's wedding shower in CO. We go there next weekend. The print wasn't the best for the pattern, but I wanted to try the pattern. It is really easy and goes together in under an hour! I would definately do this one again, but not with a directional print.

Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
I'm sure they will love it. What pattern is that? I've never seen is before. I love the deer fabric. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
I love that pattern too. I can understand what you mean about using directional fabric. It makes the whole thing more complecated. Do you know where you got the pattern from? Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That turned out great; they'll love it!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 9, 2007 - My first Hardanger piece

This is the first Hardanger piece I ever did. I gave it away as a wedding shower gift. It's white on white. You stitch it all on fabric and then cut around the entire piece and in the center. Very delicate work.

Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
That is unreal. Now I know I've seen this work before and just looked at it in aw of how it was done. What talent. Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Vera
Wow, very pretty.
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
That is amazing, it looks like alot of work. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
That is really gorgeous! Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Friday, August 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
I'm blown away!! That looks so pretty and so delicate.
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Thursday, August 9, 2007 - What is Hardanger?

Boy I never thought about explaining what hardanger was, nor do I know how to really explain it. It is an old Norweigen art form. My great aunt Mildred almost exclusively does this type of needlework. I grew up thinking it was really gorgeous, so I wanted to learn and it looked so easy! I use #5 DMC thread to do the Satin stitches. There are five rows of thread that cover four rows of the aida cloth. They alternate going horizontal and vertical and usually in a diagonal line. Then after the pattern is completed you cut around the stitching and pull threads to make weaves and webs in the open spaces. A lot of times it is stitched white on white or cream on cream on 22 or 24 count Aida or Hardanger cloth. The intricate work with the weaving uses #8 DMC thread. It's very detailed work because of the cutting. Everything has to match perfectly or when you cut it the stitching will fall out. The back should be as clean as the front because you don't want to have threads behind open areas or cut a thread that is part of the rest of the design. My favorite site to order materials from is Nordic Needle. They have an awesome selection of books, charts, and patterns as well as the thread and cloth. I'll include a link to the site so you can see different patterns. They aren't very good pictures to show the detail, but if I can find the picture of a doily I completed when i get home I will upload it. I have gotten the whole outside section done and it looks really neat already. I'll post pictures when it looks like something.
http://www.nordicneedle.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=A07-13-00
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
I just looked at some of those books on that website. That stuff is beautiful... I'm amazed at the work that would go into one. I've never heard of it before, but it is truly beautiful... Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Wow. Now I think I've seen it in person. I know it's not totally like it but the finished product looks something like a chroched doiley? But obviously has more structure because of the geometric aspect and that it's onto cloth. Very Pretty
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jillquilts
I think that I have seen it, too, but neve knew what it was. Very pretty!
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Wow!
Posted by born2quilt
I looked at the link and at the books. I think my grandmom used to do this but I never knew what it was called. Thanks for sharing. I may just try one myself. Stephanie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 51050
My daughter-in-law's grandma made our little granddaughter a hardanger bonnet and bib. It was really beautiful! Rhoda
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Wednesday, August 8, 2007 - Hardanger

Since I finished the quilt and wall hanging and I need to be working on my dress, I decided I didn't want to start any new quilts. I packed all my stuff, sewing machine, serger, fabric, pattern and sewing to go tote and got it all in my pickup last night except for my machines. Paul put both in my pickup for me this morning. He's such an amazing guy! I can't hardly think at 5:30 am, but I can remind him to load my machines so I don't have to do it. Last night I went through all my new Hardanger books and couldn't decide what to make for my bros CO wedding reception. I was originally going to do a frame and put a picture in it, but I tried that pattern and didn't care for it. I found one that is an 8X8 square for a new baby and I decided it was easy, the wording could be changed and it would be really appropriate to have their names and wedding date on a nice piece. She cross stitches, so I think she will appreciate this Hardanger piece. My great-aunt lives in Mitchell and she has done some amazing pieces, so I really wanted to learn. My mom took classes on it years ago, so at Easter she taught me how. I'm not very good yet, but learning more every day. It's something different than quilting and it looks so elegant. Plus the piece I am working on will have both the teal and wine colors in it. I will put hearts in the centers of the motif since our least name is harty and our brand is L(open heart)T. It should be pretty cool and then I'll have it mounted with a wine frame at Hobby Lobby and it'll be easy to pack to go to CO for their reception down there. Plus I can work on it at my parents in the evenings before the wedding and they'll never know. I just tuck it away in my little bag! Tonight I have sit and sew. I am going to work on my dress for the wedding. I won't have time to stop for supper because the biker traffic is so heavy, but maybe afterwards I will pick something up. Mom and I ususally go shopping afterwards which is so enjoyable. Guess I better finish my work for the day.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Wednesday, August 8, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Okay, I have a question...What is Hardanger???? Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Wednesday, August 8, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by SewAndSnip
I'm with Kristie, what is Hardanger? Cindy
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Thursday, August 9, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
Yeah, I'm lost too!! What's a Hardanger!!
Permanent Link Edit Delete

Monday, August 6, 2007 - The Bikes are Here!

I can hear the royal rumbling of the bikes and it's after 10PM! I love the sounds of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, as long as I don't have to drive there. We live about 20 miles from Sturgis, SD, where the annual Motorcycle Rally takes place for a week each August. We're less than a mile from I-90, so there is constant traffic on the road. We saw a few on Sat., heard more yesterday when I stayed home, but this afternoon I could tell they had arrived! I think there are 10 times the bikes on the road and they all drive my main route home, so I have to be extra careful. It takes me a good 10 minutes extra to get home. Last year I missed the rally completely because my grandpa died on Sat. and my grandma died on Mon., so I spent the entire week at my parents, which is 120 miles away. I enjoy seeing all the interesting attire the bikers wear. I'm not much for riding nor dressing so scantily, but I do enjoy seeing what others are will to do. We will probably go up and walk around one night this weekend. If you've never been to a rally, it's an interesting experience. One play you don't find them is in the quilt shops. More room for me! A lot of people won't even drive when the bikers are in town because of the traffic issues. They travel all over Western SD, going to the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Deadwood, and throughout the Black Hills. I love to see the bikers, but it always gets really quiet when they go home.
Post A Comment! :: Send to a Friend!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by orchidlover
how wonderful. I love bikers rallies. there's a big one over here in October. it has become a tourist attraction, can you believe that. It's held in a coastal town and they close the beach for races. i love going there and hearing the noise love and hugs gina xxx
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 7, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by CountryQuilter
Lucky you! I have a friend that goes there every year. He always brings back tons of photos and some of them...well lets just say, aren't fit for the kids to look at. But he always has such a nice time. I have never been to that one, but did go to Daytona for Bike week once. I spent a week in a tent, I thought I would die. Kristie
Permanent Link Edit Delete
Tuesday, August 7, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Cre8tiveQuilter
That's awesome!! We're in Milwaukee so every 5 years or so we get the big Harley Davidson Rally. I've been told though that it's nothing like Sturgis. I LOVE when they're all here. And you're right...better people watching than any other time.
Permanent Link Edit Delete