tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6766502598096201802024-03-12T22:32:30.732-05:00Thoughts From TaylorsoutbackWhatever pops into my thoughts...quilting, shelties, gardening, books, travel...Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.comBlogger323125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-88412005801502493392020-07-24T11:43:00.000-05:002020-07-24T11:48:04.434-05:00The winner is...<span style="font-size: large;">The winner of the mini chocolate and caramel quilt is...</span><br />
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<a href="http://amityquilter.blogspot.com/">Quilting Babcia</a><span style="font-size: large;"> - it was mailed off last week and should be arriving in its new home any day now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The oriental lilies are just opening up...oh the fragrance! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Just noticed a tiny little bug making its way around one of the petals...reminded me I still have many tiny little fabric bugs to applique on the Rowdy Flat quilt...but working on border #3 gives me a glimpse at the completion of this project.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All for now - taking a break from blogging. Hoping everyone stays safe and healthy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Pat </span></div>
<br />Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-3576514661961547822020-07-08T12:12:00.000-05:002020-07-13T09:38:03.180-05:0010th year of blogging - giveaway!!<span style="font-size: x-large;">July, 2010 was the beginning of my little blog. 10 years have passed and along the way, I have learned so much and “met” readers from so many places. At times, I fell away for weeks at a time as life presented different priorities but when a new posting was put up, you were back again. </span><br>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">So want to offer a little giveaway as my way of saying <b><i><u>Thank You!</u></i></b> for taking the time to visit and comment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">This has come about in part from Wendy over at </span><a href="http://theconstantquilter.blogspot.com/" id="id_dbc4_3c87_66d8_177e">The Constant Quilter</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> who put out a request for anyone to send her an orphan block that she could incorporate into a “Community Supper” quilt. I sent her a little basket block for her to use and received the sweetest packet of chocolatey browns and caramel squares. What a delightful surprise and I knew how they could be used. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Using the pattern “Little Women” from Pam Buda’s book, 2 little quilts are made up of Wendy’s fabric squares and additions from my own stash. What to do with 2 little quilts? Well, I must have one for myself - chocolatey browns and caramels being a favorite color palette of mine...that other little quilt...</span></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_2a09_c534_cc04_dfdf" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PKc-Vowca65lQdtd4doMurSv2RtSRD84pjEYYYG4H-SGgjebAAQMCbw7QwhTFY" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 600px;" title="" tooltip=""><br>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">If you would like to leave a comment on this blog posting, your name will go into a drawing - I would so enjoy sending this mini off to a new home. Both quilts have the same backing - a vintage piece from a collection of Jo Morton’s - Jo’s Friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I will keep this posting open until July 14th (Tuesday).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Again, thank you for visiting. Please continue to be safe and stay well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Pat </span></div>
Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-63596258204960881592020-06-20T16:17:00.000-05:002020-06-20T16:18:57.445-05:00Of bugs and books...It is a rainy Saturday here at Taylorsoutback...a good day for making more little fabric bugs that will soon join all the scrappy flower pots growing along the borders of my Rowdy Flat project...<div><img id="id_ca47_30fa_cabf_4946" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GZnszQD7UEodMZAAb2Z_6deoB-NWDIdCvudOKTTHSbUOdr0sBp3TUcwebxEGM4" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Because the bugs are tiny, experimenting with using freezer paper and different types of temporary glue...the Sewline pen vs. Roxanne’s Glue-Baste It. the larger bottle has the fine pinpoint applicator tip which I like for positioning applique pieces when needed. The smaller vial has a “dab” type applicator on the end - more of a miniature brush. Will just play around with all before deciding...<br>These small critters are more than welcomed in my garden unlike those pesky ‘skeeters or Wisconsin’s famous biting flies. For now, the borders of the quilt are progressing at a good pace. The first one is completed (minus above mentioned bugs) and a start made on the 2nd one. The variety of pot and flower designs along with using many different fabrics keeps the interest going - while working on one flower pot, I am all ready thinking ahead to the next one.</div><div><img id="id_71b7_3ab0_672b_41ea" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/l8PMlfgRDmwry_7Zt0i5pdlvwH2FpaX81MGEt522eyg8bnPn1QOV74VUbY47lWQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_5f7b_cdff_df8f_31cb" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0tMMkK57b56RxcxLSNvnKXNWOxe4JJ4uVr6R5gwz5fJSUbuKUkql41-IEj6EOlQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_32cb_99bb_dae0_38d1" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/V9HA3lUODHkaY7kCdxV3Atf4hp20SFA5BwWncOx7ctoyu_VgQt23d6RoNf0sRdc" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Summer is moving along much too fast around here...the nearby fields have all ready yielded their first crop of hay.</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_7fa8_223_3487_673d" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bF94ML8zFHqacOu1nrUXoR7RkKywWiPaMDapQFXJCoOvBLnWkc6xfImatk2cJKA" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Iris flowers, lilacs and peonies have just about peaked and here we are ready to observe the Summer Solstice...I just don’t want the days to start growing shorter yet. We are so pleased to know our south field is a healthy one - last night the fireflies were dancing! And the monarchs are back flitting from flower to flower. </div><div><br></div><div>In addition to some slow stitching & lots of gardening, the stack of read books grows higher. Can’t believe how many I have completed in the past few months - guess it is one more way to temporarily escape the madness of the world we live in. A few of the books were quick to go through and probably won’t linger much in my memory, but there are exceptions - </div><div><br></div><div>A Single Thread by Tracy Chavelier and The Dressmaker’s Gift by Fiona Valpy. Both very, very good. </div><div><br></div><div>But this one - <u><i>I can’t recommend this highly enough</i></u>...it will touch you, bring tears, smiles and new found awareness. The timeliness of it is incredible. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_8b2a_989a_df16_eb68" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/63jRheuc_eImVKJaBtKWs-dBa9y3om-MG97LKSbhGYOTs2NW5xdfoMbDA_t9aWU" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>While I had previously heard of the “blue people” of Kentucky, I did not know very much about them or the Pack Horse Librarian project created by Eleanor Roosevelt in the 1930’s. I won’t give away the plot other than to say it is filled with characters both wonderful and deplorable. One of the dearest though, is an elderly lady named Loretta Adams who lives alone in a mountainside cabin and has a stack of colorful pieces of cloth which she uses to make quilts, articles of clothing and items for daily use. When the beloved main character, Cussy Mary, visits Loretta one day, they have a discussion about people of color - Cussy Mary being one of the blue people and experiencing deep prejudice and isolation her entire life. Loretta points to a pile of cotton squares and says...</div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">“See all my fabric, child? Well, them cloths are a lot like folks. Ain’t much difference at all. Some of us is more spiffed up than others, some stiffer, and still, some softer. There’s the colorful and dull, ugly and pretty, old, new’uns. But in the end we’s all fabric, cut from His cloth. Fabric, and just that.” </span></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Miss Loretta Adams - Kentuckian hillwoman.</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">If only everyone in the world would heed those words...</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Be well, dear readers and continue to stay safe. </div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Pat </div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-52523584069704912262020-05-31T11:19:00.000-05:002020-05-31T11:25:12.095-05:00Brimfield Awakening quilt...revisitedAlways a nice feeling to check off another quilt that is completed...this one from 2018 (though I mislabeled it as 2019!) when<u> Paper Pieces.com</u> introduced the Brimfield Awakening project and a Facebook group was started. Doing EPP’ing is one of my favorite ways to work on a quilt block and there was just enough (I mean...<u><i>just</i></u> enough) of a background fabric and border fabric which was begging to be put to use.<div><br></div><div><img id="id_5304_c9d1_b91a_88c9" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qo7uBLQczSGelot4OP4RCY_CNtYrkg5kmNze5ToXH_0bIWjahddXxJq1kBJQWQI" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_4200_e1fd_c5e0_7180" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/52GTufwOPJjtPm0epU_y0KJcYAZVuaF0iXEVbgT5n_C3g8eOgHcmxjZOm4J0LOI" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>Once the quilt top was completed, I layered it and started marking it with intentions of hand quilting. It soon became apparent that my hands were not up to the task. The quilt sandwich was folded and put away in a basket where it sat for a year+. This winter, it nagged at me...so I removed all the basting stitches, got rid of the wash out markings (thankfully), repressed it and hung it on a large drapery hanger. Fast forward to earlier this month when my friend, Jan (and travel buddy - Italy and the UK) loaded it onto her Long Arm and worked her stitching magic. Love the quilting design she did - those feather borders turned out so well...</div><div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_140b_c45a_d6b4_e2ba" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/smRc_NqD9IMdXO6od3dl6iPZsZl9L2y1IgrqChAvIoFccDZhIlFakAGa2pIkq6Q" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Back to our Brimfield Facebook group...Paper Pieces provided a downloadable pattern for us - “Baby Brimfield” - so I used it to stitch a label for the back. Really like the small scale of it, but not sure I could do a whole quilt in that size! </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_9bd5_52e6_250a_b06a" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_Iftpoqo6cvqb4ryo3u2Nk0ZO3cQd0WphI9dYYd5yQZdBUHKYdjJkQJbka3O2Gs" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Here at the edge of the Northwoods, we have alternated with summer-like temps to frosty nights...making gardening a challenge as always. But for some reason, which I am not going to complain about...everything planted in the raised beds has been thriving. The summer of 2019 - I lost count of how many times peas and cucumbers were replanted. This year - the total opposite and I could not be happier! So here we are - ready to enter the glorious month of June and I am able to keep up with outdoor tasks - a first! But this 76 year old body can feel it...at the end of the day, with needle in hand, it is hard to stay awake while stitching on the Rowdy Flat...the last of the 5 applique blocks is done...</div><div><img id="id_b2b7_651e_9ed7_bb40" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7rLOvSq0qo5GyjWXBYtSFQzJyEsNqusE8CNWi0x1EDR4u9r1OwcsYn4Kpf4oI4Q" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 557px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>And now starting on the first border which consists of many flower pots - the pieces feel huge compared to the tiny ones in the earlier blocks, especially </div><div>the little bugs. But I can see all ready more bugs to come as they march along between the flower pots...oh well...all in good time.</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_51b7_7dc3_4b11_4bfc" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L1gz9GPOJb11ePtd8QZAdTcONs4UAJhp0Aa7mbCOTbHuTDrZiSvsvDgtQuMjt6Y" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>For now, still practicing social distancing, wearing a mask and missing all the quilt-related events. Our guild has decided to not meet until September at the earliest - it is hard not to see quilting sisters on a regular basis. </div><div><br></div><div>For me, “gardening is therapy and you get tomatoes.” Keep up your stitching and you get quilts...</div><div><br></div><div>Be well everyone.</div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div></div><img id="id_98fe_9828_d044_7d66" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WAzu3emSGUDXG1vbhZvJINxtP2uUbsb1zGc6DUuWBQgrurBMh_PPHhDAcg92OdE" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 559px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-77790788933491915262020-05-14T14:36:00.000-05:002020-05-14T14:36:59.718-05:00Not your average pancake......there has been a bit of activity in the kitchen at Taylorsoutback. Across the US baking has apparently skyrocketed during the stay-at-home restrictions. Boy, when Weight Watchers opens up meetings again, their membership is really going to increase! At our home, baking has been going on for many years, sometimes to the detriment of our waistlines. It is heartwarming to see how our son has inherited the baking genes from both his great-grandmothers and Grandpa. My Mom grew up on a farm where Saturday baking was a tradition - loaves of bread and cinnamon donuts. When Wonder bread was available, the kids thought that was great and in later years, realized how much better homemade was. (Did you know Wonder Bread has been around since 1921?)<br />
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So, on Mother’s Day, our Dave took over Sunday breakfast with Dutch Baby Pancakes. Oh.My.Word.</div>
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It was excellent! Filled with fresh fruit, a dollop of lemon curd and even a spirt of Reddi-whip.</div>
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Definitely more time needed on the treadmill...thankfully, reading on the Kindle helps to pass the walking time.</div>
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Back in the kitchen this morning, I tried out a Welsh cake recipe - I enjoyed these at Brecon Beacons in Wales last October. Used the copper cutter I found in one of the little Welsh villages we visited...sweet memories. </div>
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Sultanas and spices add to the taste of these little lovelies - not quite a crumpet or English muffin. A little more “cakey” - (And requiring even more treadmill time)</div>
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Our hard freeze, frosty nights are hopefully now a thing of the past. Last week sure made for extra work giving all the onion plants coverage in the raised bed and keeping starter plants snug in the potting shed. Our weather guys tell us by next week we could see 80 degrees. So it goes here in Wisconsin at the edge of the northwoods. Perhaps we can finally enjoy sitting out on the deck and I can stitch some more moths and bees onto the last of the Rowdy Flat applique blocks. Looking forward to getting all the blocks together into a flimsy before starting in on the borders.</div>
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We continue to be busy here - not bored at all though missing being with friends - there was a successful Zoom session involving a glass of wine with some of our quilting sisters the other day and just got word yesterday, one of the LQS’s has reopened - again with restrictions in place, but it sure will be nice to see some new fabrics and catch up! </div>
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Meanwhile, everyone, continue to stay safe and be well. Hoping you find ways to stay busy too. </div>
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“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.” </div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-80329832429493319222020-04-29T13:54:00.000-05:002020-04-29T13:57:47.541-05:00A patchwork of days...All of us are now in to...what?...going on 2 months of stay-at-home living...we are learning to adapt, making do with whatever is on hand. Hoping we and all our loved ones remain healthy...listening to constant misinformation, confusion and frequently downright dangerous thinking from so called leaders. What will be the “new normal”?<div><br></div><div>It is difficult to picture what the coming months will be like, but here at Taylorsoutback, our days try to keep some semblance of normality. As the month of May approaches in northern Wisconsin, it usually means the opening of fishing season, the sound of grouse drumming in our woods and a delightful array of ducks visiting our pond. Grass bursts into a brighter shade of green overnight from frequent rains and spring peepers announce their reawakening in the evening hours. </div><div><br></div><div><div>Our son has shared his learning experiences with his new drone - we can now see directly above how our resident Mrs. Goose has built her nest and lined it with down to protect the eggs.</div></div><div><br></div><div>In the early evening, he flew the drone above our house and captured this interesting image...that bright pink dot showing, is my grow-lights shining out from the sunroom windows...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_8c4e_b227_583c_9be4" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/SwuN4I9cFcvhS-E74uJHeeuaVwiC2MDNVhbeJmR-x0M4YfHw7XqvhFxyl9d6iuU" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>The gardens are coming to life and those same indoor grow lights have given me a headstart. Bunches of special order onion plants have arrived and baby pak choi seedlings are anxious to go into the ground... </div><div><img id="id_3cef_21c8_3fa5_4182" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Nw4tLwvmim40UXUqe6PCy04F95OfMj6RSLEw_sFA-O3s3u38UfUdK5ZfmrVgdY0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>In the basement, 4 new windows for the potting shed are being prepped - the old ones have served their purpose long enough.</div><div><img id="id_4067_41b_90e2_788f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Hl0PbCPufwDqEb__FuIgmAIcteoe74pk7WmFAOQbM6MXa4ibcuj74ZZnrVTU2U0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Baking (stress baking?) and new recipes in the kitchen get a trial run. Any shopping is done online...new lighting, bathroom rugs, books, whatever is needed - we are in replacement mode right now - after 24 years, the house calls for more attention.</div><div><br></div><div>And in the evening, stitching continues on Rowdy Flat...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_a0f5_fd8f_d189_2e1e" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/JTGUn07KSQAaXVVpd1DE9x7RQdxK9sxAdxcioiaETpZ-3llhmvITT1ZEaUWtnio" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>The last of the applique blocks begins...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_cd9d_cfbd_79b6_d14f" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Y7zRWsCFa6xAvEOfkJtYKSwIRUW7FmkrToWDQ0tBg_uXGP0FRuFckYiOEKdQ4Ng" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Thank goodness for patchwork - it sure makes these days easier to negotiate.</div><div><br></div><div>What are your patchwork days like? </div><div><br></div><div>Stay well everyone and be safe. </div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div><br></div><div><br></div></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-41227111332661892712020-04-18T15:16:00.000-05:002020-04-18T15:16:22.450-05:00Remembering Di...Joining in with the thousands of quilters around the world who are paying tribute to the amazing Di Ford-Hall who passed away 2 days ago after a long battle with a rare form of leukemia.<br />
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We are blessed with people who come into our own lives, however briefly. But they leave such an impression on us with their graciousness, smile and inspiration. Di was one of those individuals. First in 1994 when I was on a tour of Australia...just outside of Melbourne, we were hosted by the wonderful Waverly Patchworkers. Our group enjoyed a lovely luncheon, show and tell and sharing and the very next day, we met again to visit the Healesville Sanctuary (a park housing a wide variety of Australian wildlife). Di and her friends were part of that visit. Afterwards, we all went up to the nearby Badger Weir Picnic Area where dozens of coolers were brought out filled with different foods. With the Australian spring just beginning to emerge, the day was chilly and I remember the warmth of the pumpkin soup from a thermos as we shared a picnic table...</div>
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Di (on left in navy coat) with friends...September, 1994 </div>
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We both owned quilt shops back then and chatted about fabric...little did I know how much meeting her would influence my quilting later.</div>
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Fast forward ahead to 2017...Shipshewanna, Indiana - a very special workshop sponsored by Gay Bomers of Sentimental Stitches...</div>
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The class room was filled and yet Di took her time to visit each one of us as we selected fabrics - her input and approach was gently given and we took everything she said to heart. </div>
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(Yep - I look like a “deer caught in the headlights!)<br />
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There have been 2 quilts completed since 2015 - the first was the Quiltmania Mystery Quilt designed by Di (2014-2015 issues)</div>
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Mountmellick...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_aef1_6fff_7327_646f" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8RHo4oGC3ksZf3E_xJqiTwpiCS0CTombHeo7PdeXFFj8-M9zXnTR4y9iKZHV8ac" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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And finished in 2017, Drayton Hall - EPP’ing to the max! This quilt hangs on our bedroom wall and I wake up to it everymorning...</div>
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My quilting library is so much the better for having both her books (and signed) as well as a third book - Labors Of Love (Secret Sewing Sisters of which Di was part of that group) There is a large basket in my sewing room filled with her Andover fabrics...<br />
I will continue to embrace Di’s philosophy - more fabric - more variety...each piece a treasure, especially the ones she designed.<br />
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She will be deeply missed...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-68200246304125346422020-04-13T14:02:00.001-05:002020-04-13T15:23:06.829-05:00Oh what a difference......a week can make...Palm Sunday weekend found us clear of snow and ice everywhere and our son’s new Ooni pizza oven fired up...we have all been enjoying the results. From classic margharita pizza, supreme with everything on it, chipotle steak pizza...<img alt="" id="id_755b_32c3_2be_e23e" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/JlXaP6w8F4pmwssxxdnYUKIl5fUSyuGSjO4B4XPiBGYJtgqOmdyXLbIqsqP-3gk" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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and now...<br />
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Easter weekend arrives and we are totally covered in snow...but it doesn’t stop our Dave - he whips out a “winter pizza” - fresh pear, white cheddar, caramelized onions and a touch of rosemary...an amazing combination of flavors...We think he should open a pizzeria...</div>
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<img alt="Dave Taylor image" id="id_c1d5_7027_9d03_eb7a" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/VGBIsh0157oLzre1EaLuUM562T4cf-L_YBESCpPwJDup3uT9Jv79gocimLnIz5w" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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(Dave Taylor image) </div>
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Living in Wisconsin though always means April and even May can bring surprises. But it feels so strange to remember that only a few days ago, I was out puttering in the potting shed and had also actually accomplished some yardwork. Oh well...there is always stitching...</div>
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More little bugs to be added...</div>
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I am very partial to any thing that has a buttery yellow color. My first kitchen was done in that color and my 42 year old Kitchenaid mixer is that color.</div>
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The palette has to be warm yellow and into butterscotch...you probably won’t find much of the bright lemon color around here.</div>
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A small collection of yellow-ware bowls is above the entry to our dining room ...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_9c13_a9df_7e6c_265a" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/PxMuMtp-zx5RM7Zb5LfaUm3RyOCjp60-8nCvLJkfRwnFX5bZeaUIo71Jr_P37oE" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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And these favorites keep watch over our dining room table...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_a00d_fb08_e6a6_d45d" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/jJKOO0Vc41Ld2--4gsIDBPacR7hVI4C79Gs3s0ZXjJ_ZVhkNdoMXqllFIV33fFs" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
So I could not resist this new piece of yellow wool - it will serve as a tablerunner background for my little wool sheep...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_f971_821f_aba3_7f51" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/WKlmcdzI3LBfqkN9cAKIiKsfUNv2ykeRvMVA7pJvXJoHFUXXPnTKKBpAE4JwOwM" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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We had a quiet Easter dinner with everyone remaining healthy...a blessing indeed.</div>
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Have a good week, get some stitching done and stay safe at home.</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-34216893589014567492020-04-02T10:53:00.000-05:002020-04-02T10:53:59.172-05:00Each day is filled with....Trying to keep the anxious levels down as we negotiate this unknown territory we are all in...<br />
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I keep thinking of all the blessings surrounding our family...</div>
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We continue to have good health...</div>
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The house is filled with a basic supply of food and necessities (no - we are not part of the hoarding population)</div>
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The snow is mostly gone with a few patches left in the woods...</div>
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My potting shed will soon be open for spring and summer...</div>
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The fabric stash is plentiful as are potential projects</div>
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At the touch of a button most any book I would like to read is downloaded on to the Kindle...</div>
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(Update - Dear Jane is making her way to her new home in Louisiana)</div>
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Sharing a few things that are in the works or completed...</div>
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My Rowdy Flat Library Quilt - Bits and pieces that will all be joined together...</div>
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(3 completed, working on the last 2)<br />
<img alt="" id="id_5f76_651d_4cf9_91f" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gM7USPvxCzSo7k1QN8PQmTmJpX0nnWXNh4L53y7gLVe39dvgjIMNakzs9v7kB-4" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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(Corners - which will be joined to the borders)<br />
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(And a thank you to Kyle over at <a href="http://kyleredente.blogspot.com/" id="id_cb56_478f_d331_47a1" target="_self">Timeless Reflections</a> for sharing Kathy Schmitz Honeybee link - I have been seeing this little paper doll bee popping up on a number of blogs)</div>
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Working on piecing blocks - a pattern from Cute As A Button...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_ec7c_fc71_4dc6_6b94" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8NKSSMbKmNb9GMJ-E1tZ99VVfV4vj5jnNbOD5dqlq2Qsj8iD4l2OI5GWOJk_6ug" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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A stack of cotton face masks to be donated to our local hospitals/nursing homes - whereever the need is...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_2ebe_49b2_8c25_1028" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ISY4jHhGaLYUHEWnCnay4YBNV7BwZie2YlLo5x1bldK89FSOtupC1RTxH26rg9I" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 400px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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My Tree of Life Quilt top sent to the Wollongong Quilt Guild in Australia - they posted a picture on Facebook as it came off the LA machine. Soon it will go to one of the many people who lost their home during the recent bush fires. To date, this large guild has collected well over 13,000 individual quilt blocks in addition to tops, etc. from all over the quilting world. </div>
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<img alt="" id="id_4729_23bb_142d_7482" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5O39COJrJY5K8pBoL9u4cPydNDcBuBUS2bDXl9Bbe64YAc3GKqARmzylWfABLfg" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 400px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
And our puppy quilt - in honor of 6 shelties in our lives...really like the quilting my friend did on her LA. This quilt brought us smiles when hung on the wall - especially after our silver girl, Kelsie (the blue puppy) crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in January...she is so missed. The orange puppy, heading off in her own direction, is our Seana, who is the Queen Bee now...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_d79a_aee8_fd9c_3572" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/tHV4bqWCWHYxxLXQOEAfhg6FR-uU_Vjr3guQKJbnG3XvkxFGA7cPqZYNXYQ1f2w" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 400px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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<img alt="" id="id_9787_b8a1_6205_2416" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jV-NjWXIsYrl530D5eI0B-sVuHCy2kRHSzx1ui-6qTehLMTDyDnQynv9B2kJl9U" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 400px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
And so it goes here at Taylorsoutback...taking each day as it comes.</div>
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Be well everyone and remember to cherish the simple things...</div>
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Pat</div>
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Our silver girl, Kelsie - 3/5/06 - 1/10/20 </div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-21019679417895084202020-03-24T12:13:00.001-05:002020-03-24T12:13:56.539-05:00Meanwhile...at the edge of the Northwoods...It has been many months since this neglected blog has shown any activity. A bum back prior to the holidays and a bout of the flu (regular kind) in late February occupied my hours. Now it feels like our planet, as we know it, is coming to a halt. I truly pray that this finds each of you safe at home and well. <div>Though quilting supply warehouses along with our dear quilt shops are shutting down, most of us as quilters probably have enough projects in our sewing rooms to last for a long time. Perhaps you have taken this homebound time to finish UFO’s or start something new...or, like me, reevaluating what you have stored on the shelves and in bins. Having begun the “interesting” age of 76 a few weeks ago, a new reality has revealed itself. Just how many big projects am I capable of completing? Arthritis in the right hand is certainly letting me know the clock is ticking...with that in mind, I have decided to start letting go of a few things that are no longer realistic or require the ability to handle minute pieces. </div><div><br></div><div>For now I am offering the Paper Pieces Dear Jane project and hoping it can find a new home. The pieces for each block are just too tiny to assemble for my hands. I hate to let this go...but to have it sit is such a waste. The following description and images have also been posted on Facebook - am hoping to reach out to a wider audience. </div><div>There are 2 options to consider...<u>These patterns are for English Paper Piecing only - not hand piecing.</u></div><div>#1 Purchase the entire collection along with the few completed blocks from Row A as well as 4 2/3 yards background fabric. I had approached this with a scrappy, reproduction look. I have all the packets that Paper Pieces sent each month as a BOM. The only opened pattern packet is Row A so you would have a little head start if reproduction is to your taste. I am asking $180 plus shipping. You can still order this collection from Paper Pieces so you can compare costs vs. what I am asking. The background fabric is 100% cotton - Primitive Gatherings from Moda - we live in a smoke-free home. </div><div>#2 Only purchase the remaining unopened pattern packets (minus Row A) and then order Row A from Paper Pieces to start your own version with your own background, etc. I am asking $150 plus shipping. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_1fb7_c3a5_436b_a044" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tu5XfId5efkLzYyCw8lI-HywHvkB1OPTpZHozv10q7gwOXgKr-CUZt-Q2V5Yepg" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_3343_428c_1cdd_ab02" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AxvgPS8LKA_KpS5tnycjc9ygaCZlRKlGUo_IBcZVcEkPXz4f9hSJhs53IPpRfHA" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_5b5d_667b_43f4_bc5" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/lpMQgpk1tC-Ocq9Iy-sBqSUs6aTYA-Gp9fexTZswJyn3X7LX6PmptWrn7BUE1XE" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_19fa_1667_a63c_4df8" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qDmnDUedQDjOOihosIvRpABuUEoVnbEvvB6geRbbQTYiSI8u07zPoRmW6WR4rSg" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_2d5a_daf8_7c1e_e973" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/T3aoRHyF1Vs0C-YGLaqzBeCiGg74axYhV4VSQU8jwqfer4u1Q68Nfp29o3PZIkA" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_e162_458b_90fb_2310" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/rGNEQQI5XbeQWHA2nCA7eNu5Q_BUgKDLjjv77343eVgiPFSZ3umTFMEg1-2T5Nw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>If you have any questions, please feel free to email me. Meanwhile...life here at the edge of the Northwoods continues on...our snow level is going down and there are patches of bare ground visible. Geese are returning to the pond and skating across the frozen surface. The call of the redwing blackbirds tells us Spring is hovering on the horizon. </div><div>As we are told...we are all in this together and I wish each of you and your loved ones, the blessings of good health.</div><div><br></div><div>Happy stitching and stay safe out there...</div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-90991462102499176702019-11-11T11:39:00.000-06:002019-11-11T11:39:34.930-06:00Back on track...sort of...Hope this short post gives me the kick start needed to get back in to the sewing/quilting mode. After being in “wool acquisition” denial, I have caved in to this popular approach to stitching. For a couple of years, I vowed to not get drawn in - my friends would tempt me with their ongoing projects using gorgeously rich hand dyed wools and speak in another language with words such as Valdani threads, chenille or embroidery needles, Steam-A-Seam or Heat and Bond...who knew?<br />
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Then, a wonderful shop opened a few months ago nearby - only a 20 minute drive - The Woolgathering in Merrill, Wisconsin (check out Roxie’s photos on Facebook - she does beautiful work)</div>
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(No affiliation - just a happy customer!)</div>
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Sooo...am starting out on the small side...</div>
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From my newest favorite book - Bowl Me Over</div>
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Made the tiny Tree pillow first and then - like potato chips when you can’t just eat one...</div>
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The original thought was to place these in one of our burl bowls that we brought back from Alaska...but obviously, things got out of hand and I am going to need a larger container - perhaps a basket?? </div>
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Ok - then a delightful Santa caught my eye - </div>
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He is in place on the background and I am ready to hunt through my embroidery flosses so the embellishments can begin.</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_fc6f_989_4659_2ddc" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8U4rKymDBf28C0jgunFvMFGDqUBfbQcMWQRX7EGvwIFh3vKNARrbmDGymUA" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
And lastly - while at our annual Fall retreat a week ago, Roxie had little sheep kits prepared - so a lot of us gobbled those up and went home with our completed pin...</div>
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I may be in trouble here...but it sure is fun to be back on track...</div>
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Happy stitching everyone and have a good week!</div>
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Pat </div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-76005890420699339052019-11-04T20:04:00.000-06:002019-11-04T20:04:00.718-06:00Life in a suitcase...Seems like the last month has been lived out of a suitcase! Have just returned from yet another adventure - our annual 5 day Fall Retreat which is all about friends, food and fun and lots of fabric thrown in. I even have one special friend who lives in the southern part of Wisconsin and drives Up North every year to join us bringing along a very large suitcase packed with her quilting projects & a much smaller one for clothes - I love her priorities!<br />
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This year, I just could not deal with packing any thing major to work on and had no large quilt projects prepped in advance. So focused on some little handwork items and even then I approached them quite lazily (is that even a word?)</div>
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Have you seen Debbie Busby’s new book? (That Patchwork Place) It is really a hit around our neck of the woods. Got one little pillow done and others prepped. Will be back later to show the completed group. </div>
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<img alt="" id="id_32b3_e23e_d21_5262" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Jk0uQdfX5X2TjtnFop2KItXZl7ETFoMEBhRYu-c7D-6wTP1tTtJzNmstH2A" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 500px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
Managed to finally get arms and legs attached to a pair of Gail Wilson dolls that have been partially assembled for years and really need to be completed...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_bae7_f7e7_61df_8611" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bqRdi2bVgRZJJos3693aEt-x5bsosa2OEnlXskG44B2p0q-k6Jtaa6n9cMs" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 400px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
Next step is tinting the dolls and fabric for the clothing...<br />
Other than that, some slow stitching on my Rowdy Flat Library Quilt - have received Block #3 and my fingers always are itching to work on this when it arrives in the mail from Australia.</div>
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So...back to that suitcase thing...and a wrap up on our journey to England and Wales. On the previous post, I left you with a brief tour of our time in Wales. On October 17th, we packed up and left our B & B and headed to Cardiff where the rental car was returned and we boarded the train for the return trip to London. We had reserved an apartment for our 5 day stay and it served as a convenient base to operate out of.</div>
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Oh my! London is huge, busy and filled with way too much to see in such a brief stay but we managed to hit some of the high spots despite being in the middle of major Brexit protests which disrupted everything (including public transportation). Add in another important protest against the situation in Turkey and Syria - and it made for some historical and thought-provoking moments. </div>
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We spent most of a day just at the Victoria and Albert Museum - it would take months to take in everything. </div>
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A magnificent Dale Chihuly glass sculpture greeted us as we entered the main area - </div>
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Exhibit after exhibit put us on sensory overload...exquisite artifacts from dozens of countries, displays of china and textiles (sadly, all the quilts are in a separate building for which you need to make an appointment - had we known) and even the mosaic floors we walked on served to keep us awe-struck.</div>
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We had a tour of the Churchill War Rooms - absolutely a must! Everything is just as it was when WW II ended in 1945 and Prime Minister Churchill and his staff left the underground bunker. Papers and maps with pins still in place showing the Operation Overlord/D-Day, Churchill’s bedroom (reportedly he hardly ever slept, being riveted on how to achieve victory) and in the next room, his wife, Clementine, who chose a more feminine look. (Wonder what King George and Queen Mary were thinking while visiting their Prime Minister in his bedroom/sitting area...hopefully the chamber pot was tucked out of sight!) </div>
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The London Pass; the Oyster Card; learning how use The Tube; deciding on which restaurant to eat in - London being a city of multi-cultures and therefore, amazing foods!</div>
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Viewing the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London (no photos permitted) and visiting Liberty of London for fabric...so many memories and so many things yet to see...</div>
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It is comforting to be back home again though - I think the suitcase is stored away for awhile...but I have not deleted the British Airways app from my phone...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-3757351332078104622019-10-26T12:22:00.000-05:002019-10-26T16:51:28.164-05:00Planes, trains and automobiles......the Hop On/Hop Off...and the Tube...<div>Recovering from jet-lag, but back home at Taylorsoutback in the northwoods after a whirlwind trip to England and Wales...the quietness of our surrounding fields and woods is a huge contrast to our 2+ weeks of travel...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_157d_d132_2124_f561" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wUTb3pLd4k7jc6sXTcGbRx5zDr4GfaqX9LeFj6fA_Oo5nMvXU2B9bzmMQl0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;">From left to right...Kathy, Jan and Linda...</div><div><br></div><div>Along with three of my long time quilting buddies, we flew into Heathrow, took the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station and ultimately arrived at our London hotel for our first one night stay before boarding another train at Kings Crossing the next morning...</div><div><br></div><div>Onto Leeds for a 3 day stay...this town is known for its history of textile mills and present day shopping/market opportunities. And we had booked a day long private tour - our driver was Chris from York, whose knowledge of the area, centuries old history and little known facts made for a true learning opportunity. The beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, a long held wish to visit the Bronte Parsonage in Haworth and see the moors where Charlotte, Emily and Anne walked was finally realized.</div><div>Flocks of sheep dot the hillsides - the majority of these fluffy, four legged creatures are bred for their meat, rather than wool. Personally, I have always found it difficult to try lamb - just can’t get pass those wooly faces! </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_acb2_8a05_e963_a5af" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/4D_Oc9ad8iVwo-3GyF02Yb5Tb4v05Oi5LLJx1N2-xJ7BWj3-Xx1kXUKPmbw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 600px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>What can I say about the Bronte Parsonage in Haworth - if you share a love of the Bronte sisters books and poetry with me - you will understand how it feels to actually walk in their footsteps and see how everything has been preserved in the house they lived...I was truly in the Moment!</div><div>We visited the ancient Bolton Abbey, one of the many places King Henry VIII ordered to be closed following his break from the Catholic Church. </div><div><br></div><div>End of day - The Lock, atop the Doubletree Hilton in Leeds, and glasses of wine..;</div><div><img id="id_bb40_7d47_93f8_acd3" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/cVs9WpxN5-Oj-2EXw0Cs7jawo1DiLMCC3LLHkcvQwvhHN2rnQ7aFZNTBHk0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>All too soon, we packed up and picked up our rental car and headed out of Leeds on a quiet Sunday morning - next stop...Wales...the land of my ancestors. Putting 4 quilters in a rental car that has the steering controls on the Right Side and remembering to drive on the Left Side while easing into countless Round-Abouts with multiple exits was quite the experience...our intrepid driver, Linda, did incredibly well handling the car and our navigator, Jan, kept track of the car’s built in GPS - this was definitely a pilot/co-pilot requirement! Kathy and I sat in the back seats and (for the most part) tried to keep quiet - but often all 4 of us were laughing so hard - how many times can you go around a Round-About??? </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_bb50_b264_4024_ad09" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i6J5qno7RsFLnk_tg3MAU_y-IspEMrf54EcNsTR1TEelp6VQ1k8WL0bMxLw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Did I mention the winding roads in Wales are very narrow and each side is lined with tall hedges? And tiny, one lane bridges that are suitable for pony carts, not autos...</div><div><img id="id_ab6f_746a_e844_90d8" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/MCnJ7BSCaYWqJSiWsQ69xk8mXZOFtdrboeLll9kmHVfQ_MXHnTkcR_C1LNw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 500px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>We safely arrived in Abergavenney, Wales and found Hardwick Farm where we were to stay - it is a working dairy farm - Carol runs the B & B and her husband, Cyril, manages the large herd of milk cows. We were warmly welcomed with cups of tea and slices of fruit bread - if you want to be immersed in Welsh hospitality, I highly recommend staying there...so much more personal than a hotel room. Each morning, the day started with a full breakfast, prepared to our own order with sausages or bacon and the best ever local Apple Juice. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_c01e_455d_7763_6052" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/p7M-3-rx8uC5xRsv12HhYGpVb630OOTrXr1JGru-63YDP_FdWtGnU2YdgQU" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>For four days, we chose different spots to visit...Ragland Castle, dating back to the 15th Century...</div><div><br></div><div>Tintern Abbey...founded in 1131and later, like all the other abbys, dissolved by King Henry VIII...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_2b2f_b028_ed08_689b" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/awtxwUqZUs-SDHuDx9EhJFhB8aYVWZqyOjFPjerqJSXZEg6TJ3Rkf3PI84U" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>St. Mary’s Priory/Tithe Barn - the site of an immense canvaswork tapestry (24’ X 6’), completed in 2006 by 60 stitchers and dedicated by Prince Charles </div><div>(No photos allowed, image from Google)</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_665d_dd43_ce0c_a366" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_Uc-gncDuI2Lj7iczfvxpzpKqgstF3BY5Yb_dtE2KoBPM5SdwFg_qbpUh9o" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 500px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Brecon Beacons National Park...</div><div><img id="id_becf_753d_362a_5ce7" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bMln2U1epWN32ls1OVqb-6OMhPRrGjbQb2QYkqpd4BL5cdeauqaDX1HXPfg" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_ac8d_4417_68fa_9d67" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/09owh3sJacox1-Nc9Y1VXuyd1R_4R2ikp5dCUYDQ_2OrOsuG9zgvAVHSvVU" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_a77e_27ba_df62_b1b3" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3Z0CIuEDsWPy11IxcpkOs3auftYvkwu9WEoeuEkMU0HEMFThClahRjEcKes" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>(Yellow gorse - Tree of Movement - very prickly!)</div><div><br></div><div>Visits to local pubs and eateries...a memorable lemon tart...</div><div><img id="id_756c_f7b7_e358_246d" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/g_e4UkB4HZ8gwVO8vh0GhyzB71M2QAZap-DCFStBj5tvX1V5sW-0ROsYbiQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>At the end of the day on our last full day at Hardwick Farms...Carol got us outfitted in proper wellies and we toured the home of their dairy cows...this is a large operation and boasts 3 complete robotic milking stations...who knew a cow could be milk by a robot? 21st century technology and it pays off as the Hardwick Farm is an awarding winning milk producer. </div><div>We changed into different wellies after a foot bath and visited the calfs who were located in a separate area...more computer technology to ensure the calves receive proper nutrition after being separated from their mums...</div><div>The next day...onto Cardiff where the rental car was returned (giving our Linda a HUGE sigh of relief!) and onto a 30 minute run by train back to London...</div><div></div><div>Will be back soon with that portion of our trip...hope you were not bored reading the travelogue! </div><div>Stitching? Well actually, yes...in the evening back in our spacious sitting/bedrooms room - feet up, a glass of wine and needle in hand.</div><div><img id="id_8a6f_30dc_9e7d_b655" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uiIrgnT7RrpCMZXvPSzNdoDgAWJRoTWuVUmnlCoS51GWbIJQhFvB5pG4cB8" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Meanwhile...”Keep a welcome in the hillside...” (from a Welsh song) </div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-26599230572754487322019-09-29T12:59:00.000-05:002019-09-29T12:59:13.274-05:00By the shores of Gitchi Gami...(lots of photos)...from which we have just returned...a week on the North Shore of Lake Superior...<br />
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It is impossible to take it all in - this vast body of water “The Shining-Big-Sea-Water” from The Song of Hiawatha...</div>
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Along with our Dave and Jena, the four of us tried to see as much as possible in a much too short amount of time...Grand Marais was our base of operation...</div>
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The beautifully reconstructed North West Company Fort - Grand Portage National Monument which served as an important partnership with the fur trade activity and the Anishinaabeg Ojibwe culture. </div>
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The interior of the main building was well-appointed with furnishings appropriate to the time period (and the room had a smokey fragrance from a recent warming fire) - china and glassware as well as Native American artifacts. On display is a journal from 1788 - gorgeous condition!</div>
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Outside, a replica of a Montreal canoe which was used to bring beaver pelts and supplies along the lake in the Spring after the ice went out...these canoes could be as long as 36 feet.</div>
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We enjoyed pleasant walks along the wooded trails - the scent of evergreen and falling leaves filling the air...</div>
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A visit to Split Rock Lighthouse is an absolute must! Take the guided tour (ask for Geri - she is so knowledgeable!) - </div>
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The eight month long assignment for 3 lighthouse keepers and their families would have been a challenge as all necessities had to be delivered by ship.</div>
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(Highway access was not opened until 1926 - the lighthouse was completed in 1910 with literally everything needed to build both it and the houses, hauled up the side of the cliff from the water below - machinery, mechanisms, bricks, all equipment - and yes, quilts and a Singer sewing machine!)</div>
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But wear your comfy walking shoes - lots of steps!! So worth the effort to capture this view from the shore line...</div>
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We enjoyed sampling the local restaurants where every meal contained locally sourced produce...and of course morning treats of The World’s Best Donuts...how about a maple bacon long john, anyone?</div>
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A special treat from my dear daughter-in-law - an afternoon tea at the Naniboujou Lodge...so peacefully quiet...with views of the Lake...</div>
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This Lodge was built in the 1920’s and catered to the wealthy and numerous celebrities such as Babe Ruth and Jack Dempsey. The Great Depression seriously impacted its later success but today the lodge is doing well and the large dining room is over the top with color and design...Naniboujou is a Cree Spirit of the Woods and the painted ceilings reflect their culture. It is spectacular!</div>
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Hope you enjoyed my little travel log - we were on the go continually and by the end of the day back in the RV, with all the fresh air and walking, it was difficult to stay awake - but I did manage to prep all the 8 pointed stars needed for my project...</div>
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So that is about it for now...more adventures to come next week as I prepare to travel Across The Pond to England and Wales with 3 of my quilting friends...a dream trip of 25+ years is on the horizon...</div>
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I leave you with these lines from The Song Of Hiawatha - so relevant to us after spending time savoring the rocky shores and woods...</div>
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<pre style="background-color: rgb(245 , 245 , 245); border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(204 , 204 , 204); box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51 , 51 , 51); font-family: "monaco" , "menlo" , "consolas" , "courier new" , monospace; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.42857143; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 9.5px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-break: break-all; word-wrap: break-word;">THE SONG OF HIAWATHA.
" O my children ! my poor children !
Listen to the words of wisdom,
Listen to the words of warning,
From the lips of the Great Spirit,
From the Master of Life, who made you !
" I have given you lands to hunt in,
I have given you streams to fish in,
I have given you bear and bison,
I have given you roe and reindeer,
I have given you brant and beaver,
Filled the marshes full of wild-fowl,
Filled the rivers full of fishes ;
Why then are you not contented ?
Why then will you hunt each other ?
" I am weary of your quarrels,
Weary of your wars and bloodshed,
Weary of your prayers for vengeance,
Of your wranglings and dissensions ;
All your strength is in your union,
All your danger is in discord ; </pre>
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Happy stitching and be sure to make your own adventures on our planet...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-64185498828645856552019-09-21T10:18:00.000-05:002019-09-21T10:18:42.163-05:00September mornings.......here at Taylorsoutback, it has been one rain storm after the other...fogs and mist and heavy air...all of which has come together to slow the coloring of leaves as they begin their Fall journey...<br />
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We have yet to experience a frost - most unusual...everything is still intensely green and lush...</div>
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We have waited all summer for morning glory blooms...finally after seeing nothing but tall vines, they have decided to start their display - all at the top!</div>
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But that’s ok...the blossoms remind me of a summer’s blue sky with puffy white clouds...</div>
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Still sparks of color in the front garden...</div>
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...which is undergoing a workover - reducing the size, moving the stone border in closer and reseeding the exposed area to return it to lawn. Mr. Outback and I are both in our mid-70’s and it is time to lighten the workload and enjoy more deck time...tidying up will hopefully be easier...</div>
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The vegetable raised beds are getting cleared out and the house is fragrant with our own tomatoes, garlic and basil in pans roasting in the oven...</div>
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Apples are picked, frozen for winter pies and many buckets shared with our neighbors as well as visiting deer.</div>
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All this means precious little time in the sewing room but September’s Cheddarback (BOM from Sentimental Stitches) blocks are done.</div>
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I am so ready for a bit of “down time” - we are off for a little adventure to chase the Fall colors...</div>
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Back later...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-43855460125044039622019-08-25T18:09:00.000-05:002019-08-25T19:31:23.352-05:00August, sweet August...As summer winds down and we move towards September and the changing of seasons, I can’t help but think back on the last 3 months...here at Taylorsoutback in northcentral Wisconsin, summer days flow quickly by...much too fast. In our part of the world, Summer, Fall and Spring are here and gone in a flash but the our winter months seem to hang on and on...So we tend to store up as much good times outdoors as we can to get us through the colder and shorter days to come. For our family, August is the month of birthdays and our wedding anniversary...53 years!<div><br></div><div>Many years ago, when we first moved to Wisconsin, we had a little 14 foot Shasta trailer and we would visit various campgrounds in the area. Coincidentally, one of the places was located only a few miles from where we live now. While the campground is no longer there, the property has been bought by a very energetic family and one of the huge projects they have taken on is repurposing the original barn that use to serve as the campground check in office. I love old barns and it is always a treat to see one lovingly taken care of.</div><div><br></div><div>This weekend, the family opened up the barn to local vendors and staged a “Change of Seasons” craft show. Of course, we had to pay a visit!</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_aef_d7f_aeca_4b5c" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/IvsRa4CGZndIKIumo8GFmKDX4uqB1LLmneJtTwbIViM8W8neqXW-axhmdEw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_b84a_16b0_f1d_7271" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xdVmHTOmGJZqXTSnkRN4aMVCmnDCP50bLKtkKIuatLQ8WCJ2qRcDZg3Gz9k" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>The barn looks good and it sure brought back some fond memories...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_8b9c_6a8f_96d1_170c" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bQ_Z5jnD9mlJFgZcu6ngrLWM6pyL6kbbK6mTmS6mSK-pNueXh5cyDkEX40E" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>We walked around the property and along the river that flows behind it...we used to pull our little camper up next to the water and Mr. Outback would head out with his trout fishing gear...</div><div><br></div><div>Things have grown up in the last 30+years but it still has that sense of peacefulness you can find by the water...</div><div><img id="id_ab29_f9b9_43f5_fbec" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2rwk9vjvNHpMkP2Y-xrvfyLNHNcjBZ-uUV6JeGjUsKnrGjQ9n3lcqdpU0JM" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_761f_c06c_ab79_8926" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6MhOO9_w-RzxNZ4u7QHrrTCcDPhyErLQMDEIn0oh_40YeDqiE9pqQ1Vsnww" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>Another very fun event took place recently - if you live in Wisconsin, there is a very good chance you are a strong Green Bay Packer football fan. It is kind of a requirement actually and yes, we have been known to wear cheeseheads. </div><div><br></div><div>On August 11th, The Pack celebrated 100 seasons in the NFL and they put on a party that included cupcakes, special grass seed packets to grow your own Lambeau Field and lots of other “freebies” - </div><div>We got to watch Training Camp as our team practiced...#12 - Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_c28_8439_5f42_90ca" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uY6FQiL-z_UM5jN3Plfc7Jo7MmcgKSAxBNJK_q918qdxdjCFZ0ib3IQnoeE" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And a wonderful tour of Lambeau topped off the day...I had no idea how beautiful a football stadium could be!</div><div><img id="id_d1a7_ae01_50c3_516a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vSFk60p7Kfb2fAXgdM8kn6TFYegeIW7PHsYKS65xXPCrHOT0HTGZXwy9oTM" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Of course, we were not allowed to be on the field...but my toes could stand at the edge...</div><div><img id="id_9d10_9829_1008_cde5" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/aGU-Mk84v5rugxsmnfts9D3HrGHBCOYQ_AsjroXu6y4pMsDg6jKlgGAcE8I" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>My daughter-in-law and I by the goal post...<br><img id="id_d75e_a7c9_4515_a72a" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JhLIUZfV5CvUbcw0Aqo2goMnpMBz04AC3qpQwqHqVsS60zRL4jDkb5lntxU" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 440px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Between all the visiting, activities and some heavy duty gardening at the house, I have managed to do a little stitching...very little...</div><div>August Cheddarback blocks from Sentimental Stitches are done...</div><div><img id="id_82d6_a014_73d1_767e" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ng4p5Adz7vCPzfYu5XCmC_QSLpT9yfpzPlY-jcRS8Ya_jp1052CmCf2G-qM" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 440px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And lots of 1 1/2” diamonds have been prepped for the 6 pointed stars that are needed for Victoria’s Garden...</div><div><img id="id_b963_d1b8_de59_cb54" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qQZvmPs0x50zbDe0nEAR6dN9yU6MUYdOdDNcNQPVfsSdcoIqiWh5lnxMvKM" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_8dd8_dd3e_e3c3_e233" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/322lbUEXAO4DgCZoZcNlfAA1sllg_IukrfwmEeQgYuPQ545PkqBExV2Q8z0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>Meanwhile...the days march on; starlings and flocks of geese are all ready gathering...the nights are delightfully cool for sleeping and Labor Day is on the horizon...</div><div><br></div><div>Wishing each of you sweet days, good memories and time to stitch...</div><div><br></div><div>Pat </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-63002054764006739702019-08-08T23:24:00.000-05:002019-08-08T23:24:40.829-05:00Busy as a bee...And we are into August...oh my...counting down the summer days...<br />
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Here at Taylorsoutback, this month means many hours in the garden filling containers with green beans, blueberries, Napa cabbage, peas, a variety of lettuces, carrots, my favorite little Persian cucumbers and waiting for that first ripe tomato...and just have to share my first attempt at growing garlic...waiting for the upper leaves to start falling over before harvesting the bulbs but just had to see what was going on below the soil...this is the first garlic bulb that I checked...doing a happy dance here!</div>
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My little herb garden is lush this year compared to 2018 when everything seemed to struggle...drying sage, oregano and lots of thyme in my little microwave set up in the potting shed. The basils are prolific...not complaining at all! Day lilies are blooming and cutting a few oriental lily blossoms to bring inside sends fragrance drifting across the room. </div>
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The surrounding fields are full of yellow tansy and goldenrod and bumble bees are everywhere...</div>
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We were able to take another mini vacation to the UP in Michigan recently and relax a little bit which allowed for some much enjoyed stitching time.</div>
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The 2nd block for my Rowdy Flat Library quilt is now completed with its own busy little bees...</div>
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The Queen Bee has lots of little worker bees flying in different directions around her and I just had to include some little Princess bees in pink too. The yellow grouping in the corner are 3/8” hexies - the template was included in the pattern. </div>
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What a fun block to work on - can’t wait for Susan Smith to send the next block. </div>
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Finally, just to keep buzzing along with all the other bees, finished the center medallion for a new quilt by Karen Styles. The pattern is in the March-April, 2019 issue of Quiltmania. Piecing it was a challenge for me & the completed unit was pinned to the background prior to appliquéing around the edge. When I was done - oh no! It had shifted about 1/2” so the points did not line up to the 4 folded lines of the square which made it look off center. Got out the reverse sewing tool, cleaned up the threads, repositioned everything, pinned again and this time also thread basted to make sure everything was more secure. That extra step made it work and the circle stayed in position. In addition to all the EPP’ing blocks that go around it, I plan on using this stripe from Di Ford. </div>
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(Oh - and that little gold circle in the very middle?? - Some of those darker green points needed a little cosmetic treatment) </div>
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I think that is about it for now...hoping your days are busy and bountiful too...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-61933357119698817772019-07-21T20:16:00.000-05:002019-07-21T20:16:06.829-05:00Powering up......after some really wicked storms went through our area on Friday, we have been without power and it just came back on about 1/2 an hour ago.<br />
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This year has brought us numerous power outages and our generator has really earned its keep. Living out in the country as we do, without power, we have no water, heat/cooling, refrigeration or potty rooms. A generator is a necessity! </div>
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We don’t get power into all the rooms of the house (seriously considering a much larger, permanent installation of a Generac system) which means my sewing room goes dark for the duration. So if the sewing machines don’t function, out comes the handwork - making good progress on Block #2 of the Rowdy Flat Library Quilt. This one involves lots and lots of little bumble bees floating around the Queen Bee at the top...little legs and antennea are inked in with Pigma Pen...this is just turning out to be such a fun project and a very different approach to applique for this novice...being a fan of back basting to prep for the applique is where I started and now the Rowdy Flat is pretty much freewheeling once the center circles are in place. </div>
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By the way...I was wondering how Mary Lloyd’s original 1850 quilt, which serves as the inspiration for Susan Smith’s delightful pattern, came to be called The Rowdy Flat Library Quilt in the 21st Century. Searching a map of Australia, there is a town called Rowdy Flat in East Victoria, about 240 clicks northeast of Melbourne. Wouldn’t it be fun to visit! Would love to make a return trip to Australia...it has been much too long. </div>
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But, I digress...</div>
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So...while the electricity is out, what can a person do? There is always the garden that needs attention and with the fresher, cooler air, it is much more comfortable to work outside...</div>
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Snow peas need to be picked...</div>
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More herbs ready to be dried...</div>
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And early blueberries to grab before the birds discover them...</div>
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So it goes at Taylorsoutback in mid July...summer days that move so fast and yet feeling blessed to live where I do...</div>
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Now that the lights are back on, I am heading to the sewing room to finish up the Cheddarback quilt blocks that came to a halt when we lost power...have 4 completed for July and #5 is cut and prepped...will be nice to have the iron up and running again too.</div>
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Have a good week where ever you are and hoping weather in your part of the world stays calm and comfortable.</div>
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Pat</div>
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A recent visitor strolls by my potting shed...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-79081825583696601982019-06-25T10:58:00.000-05:002019-06-25T10:58:46.367-05:00“I wonder what it would be like........to live in a world where it was always June.”<br />
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How perfect that would be - June has it all...warm, but not too warm...soft nights that cool...everything bursting into glorious bloom...</div>
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Sigh...</div>
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The Alaskan grown peonies are putting on quite a show right now...how I love the Coral Sunset that starts out so vibrant and then gently fades to light peach...</div>
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The Coral Charm is deeper in color...</div>
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My old fashioned Wisconsin-grown peonies are huge this year in delicate pinks...</div>
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I must enjoy them now for soon they will drop their petals and prepare for next year’s cycle...</div>
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Meanwhile a small sense of accomplishment on finishing the 1st block of Rowdy Flat Library Quilt...(must do some “fine tuning” before a better pressing)</div>
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Just had to introduce her to the garden as the colors echo some of my fabric palette...</div>
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Tiny dragonflies and if you look closely, a minute bird...</div>
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Prepping the 2nd block now...lots of little bees in a circle on this one...when my hands are not in the gardens, they itch to choose fabric and try to meet the challenge of tiny appliques...</div>
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All for now from Taylorsoutback...the bees are buzzing outside too and calling my name...</div>
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Wishing each of you a lovely day where ever you are...</div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-40917208782011492212019-06-16T13:58:00.000-05:002019-06-16T14:03:09.600-05:00Odds and ends.......actually, more odds than ends...no finishes and it is going to be while before a completed quilt shows up on this blog. Summers, here in Wisconsin, like many other places is all about the outdoors and that is where you will usually find me. It feels like with the beginning of gardening season in mid-May, by the time everything is planted and a person begins to clean up winter debris and newly emerging weeds, the summer is almost gone and you are starting all over again. My goal has always been to have everything neat and tidy by early June...wishful thinking...maybe next year??? So for now, we enjoy...<div>Forget-me-nots...</div><div><img id="id_b68f_852f_9422_4e13" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/y6K8wXct7aN8JfYTh6uyZ80s4762IpP2w4pL3H3Gfx8NGwoRqw_6k8786v0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>The Prairie Fire tree in full bloom...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_6740_32f4_74a2_c5fc" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/k2YF5OH2AKZJkDjFoDuN7dfPusOgfkvBjkveY5tPx8GqT5lOhQtQBZA8Kbg" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br>Young green onions from thinnings in the garden...</div><div><img id="id_55fe_5b8a_5701_5a95" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/3-Lp0AZH9Wz0nkuCo7gTQvzlXPlkdZamCyub8h3K7-aUt27bovNL11px4So" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And a stunning double rainbow over our pond after a recent storm passed through...</div><div>(Photo by our son, David Taylor)</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_d292_de26_67c0_b73" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hZnobzSshDkPJlp8fvXIIqUDpGs-B7M2hUy9HF9M1O2-cO3Nb9hWaGeUNg" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 600px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>When night falls and I return to inside, a few quilt blocks finally get attention...</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>June’s offering from the Cheddarback BOM over at Gay’s <a href="http://sentimentalstitches.net" id="id_bfd3_6d2f_d4c5_dfd3" target="_self">Sentimental Stitches</a> are complete - surprised myself, it is only the 16th.</div><div><img id="id_82c4_319f_1c4c_4f43" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/roroIRpmXfGPPUuk6-mYs9iQ6rQ0m_579xyH0G2It-Ivy1qbgE66BpsXTQw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 500px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And the first block of my Rowdy Flat Library quilt is getting close to completion, which is a good thing because Block #2 is winging its way somewhere over the Pacific from Australia and should arrive soon...</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_8387_7ed_ff84_2d77" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mwv6YW9MIOAR5vIeyZAcRTGyBCg5OYHCsApSjTMYnOtvBgoh-ytEEP4NbBk" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>We took the 5th wheel up to Negaunee in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan recently. Mr. Outback had a skeet shoot and when I wasn’t visiting with friends and catching up with everyone, my dear little Featherweight, Adelia, hummed along making more HST’s for the Tree of Life quilt. (I want to think Adelia was happy to be working and also being returned to the town where she was discovered in an antique shop a few years back.)</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_af72_7cb9_8ad_6d97" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fZm-Pw2LK1Ky3c68bPJT7gFQQ5G9Y_pRzD3OqCaQIgOhdRncCQSA3XI4shM" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div><br></div><div>The box of HST’s grows...</div><div><img id="id_951_1361_b2c4_d69d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/R-vGVq24h4-S-Uy5kSDyZN_xz-v11Sdm61k4rq7uJ0e8C9At7RK52hDHYmY" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And that is about it at Taylorsoutback for now...filled with odds and ends - mostly odds, but still a feeling of accomplishment while savoring the month of June...</div><div><br></div><div>Wishing each of you lovely moments in the week ahead...</div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-71898367651276636272019-05-29T15:24:00.000-05:002019-05-29T20:04:03.477-05:00Welcoming spring......here, finally at Taylorsoutback...while it has been a cooler, rainy lead up to the end of May, we now have doors and windows open and welcome the fresh air and soft days. Here, at the edge of the woods in northern Wisconsin, that means visits to the greenhouses, digging in the dirt and dewinterizing the RV to get it ready for its first outing. The days are filled with activity and so far, not much extra time to enjoy sitting on the deck...but it will come.<div><br></div><div>Avoiding the crush of heavy traffic from the south as vacationers make their way farther north, we tend to stay put over the Memorial Day weekend. With rain in the forecast, I decided to piece a “little” mini from my newly acquired copy of Pam Buda’s latest book. Oh my...sure did a double take when discovering that the “quilt” I chose only measures 5” when finished...guessing that might be considered “Quilt In A Day” doable?? Not going to say exactly how long this took...but I was taken with the name Pam has called it - “Jane” - whether she refers to Ms. Austen or my all time favorite heroine, Jane Eyre, I am not sure...but I decided it was Jane Eyre (not only my heroine, but the book that I love above all other pieces of fiction - ever!) </div><div>And it all started because one of my quilting buds gifted me with a piece of fabric that I call “Thornfield Hall” -</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_a0f1_ff8e_fe5f_1a88" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/u4I6sQmG9C1lVIdNHgO6JmGESN5Jy7aa-5vFC0HzQmLRtrEdgExjoufWjvc" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 400px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_a916_da82_55d5_3fb7" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8L3wTAn_TJzKcAop0kOxnWB9ThRUtXU1geQp8PQkcqNK0LJkvYBOvpt4MhY" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div><br></div><div>Just had to display little Jane alongside her famous quote - “I am no bird, no net ensnares me; I am a free human being of an independent will...”</div><div>And of course, the piece of fabric for the backing must have little birds...</div><div><img id="id_e249_f077_8f76_e7ef" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wtr92g4KpzoGdU6e5HIYkR9Pr4Pi_riHtAcRqszeopGoXaKkgwk1EseyABI" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 500px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><img id="id_ac50_ee1_6e4d_4172" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/crUcjMb9pK6W13lOyDbDxpwzVwUUv22MB9bfUcuI_A5eujAiYuKeqLBLwdQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 500px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div><br></div><div>Each square in the block measures 1/2” finished and we are instructed to press the seams open to reduce bulk...I like using my Clover liquid pen to help keep the seams open and ready for pressing. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_f335_59a_849e_d831" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/TO8jHR0YtONizU5jX9YLYg2oRc89WmB3wJUOLSCMVUwS3Kuok6pWuSPEYNo" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div>So this minute Bear Paw block also seemed to call for a cup of coffee brewed with Bear Paws (half-decaffeinated for me) coffee from a nearby local roaster. We are hearing of more new coffee roasters, local micro-brewers and vineyards around the state - always a treat to know products are locally sourced. </div><div><br></div><div>Have also completed the Cheddarback blocks for May that Gay over at <a href="http://sentimentalstitches.com" id="id_bb7a_74a3_e90c_2aac">Sentimental Stitches</a> is offering each month...A few of these blocks present a challenge and tells me my piecing skills have gotten a little lazy...this is a wonderful block of the month and will hopefully sharpen my ability. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_b1d_3900_6a10_6459" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/apnFW7flrpBzUdTvfPkrJKqUdZEO2eG5oK92wqIpGNIhcQiCH9sqI8DSreo" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>And at last...Old Glory has been presented to the nearby nursing home in time for Memorial Day...it was made to honor my Dad, who was a Navy veteran as well as all the other veterans who were or are residents at the home. </div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_81f_abae_a83b_59d1" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/NYuo1jrnHK-QFQeOiVl-Z9_qCSUnIcAxzEdhUvEgL6r57gG5wlPBrhm9zFE" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br>I have to admit to a skipped heart beat when the thank you note I received mentioned they had not decided as to whether the quilt would be displayed (which was my intention and included a hanging sleeve) for all to see or if it would be given to a resident veteran to use. I did call the office to remind them displaying it would be best as the techniques and fabrics used would not hold up well to frequent washings in hot water - there are also beads sewn on for the eyes of the eagles...so I think that they understood! Hopefully...</div><div><br></div><div>So that is about it for now from Taylorsoutback...heading out to the garden to give the garlic plants some extra food...Have a good rest of the week and wishing each of you moments of bliss in your corner of the world.</div><div><br></div><div>Pat</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_263c_da48_e161_ee48" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/o0vO-q6HJgeM4XJLO0xJNTW0o433PiyNKrqHRQjQM5KCHX2ivMUnt843EkE" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 550px; height: auto; margin: 4px;"><br><br><br></div><div><br></div>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-18132257088767295682019-05-14T13:57:00.000-05:002019-05-14T13:57:56.181-05:00Rebooting....Spring has arrived here at Taylorsoutback...daffodils are in full bloom, a lot of winter debris has been raked and hauled up to our south field and onion plants are in...Mr. Outback and I drove down to our favorite compost supplier and picked up 29 bags for eventual distribution amongst the 7 raised garden beds...and that is the status of things here for now.<br />
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Frustratingly my least unattractive foot apparel has been called into service again. </div>
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Last year a painful left foot introduced me to The Boot - after weeks of wearing it, things seemed settled and I continued on through the summer and entire winter months walking normally and utilizing the treadmill every day...until this week...that foot problem is back again and once more, ice is my friend.</div>
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Suppose at some point, I will need to call for an appointment to see if something more can be done. For now, The Boot, ice and staying off my foot periodically will hopefully bring some relief. I am not good at sitting...</div>
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There is a vegetable garden to put in during the next few weeks; pretty flats of flowers at the local nurseries that are calling and readying the RV for camping season. I want to be up and about...</div>
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The most restful thing I can do right now is sit at the machine and try to quilt Old Glory - want to complete this and get it to the nursing home sometime during the week of May 20 - just prior to Memorial Day...</div>
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Not much else going on around here - just a little pity party...still, there is something to be said about sitting down at 2:00 of an afternoon, working on a quilt with a Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall movie in the background...</div>
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Hope you are having an uncomplicated and productive day!!</div>
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Pat </div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-2727370730340947802019-04-23T16:01:00.000-05:002019-04-24T09:15:31.958-05:00The ties that bind (ing)...Spring has arrived here at Taylorsoutback...raking, hauling downed tree limbs, moving outdoor stuff from storage and puttering in the potting shed...the days are busy and satisfying. Before this lovely stretch of weather arrived, we had copious amounts of icy snow turning to rain which made for a good reason to stay snug in the sewing room.<br>
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As the month of April winds down, my <font size="4">OMG</font> project is a done deal...the perle cotton ties have been finished to hold the layers together...ends have been trimmed...<a href="https://www.elmstreetquilts.com/2019/04/one-monthly-goal-april-finish-link-up.html">https://www.elmstreetquilts.com/2019/04/one-monthly-goal-april-finish-link-up.html</a></div>
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Binding made and applied...and I want to share how nice some new needles are that I have tried. (A little background first...<a href="http://www.primitivegatherings.us/" id="id_d0db_8fb9_bcbf_c038" target="_self">Lisa Bongean of Primitive Gatherings</a> has taught a few workshops for our guild - one of which I was fortunate to take a number of years ago...she is a good instructor and provides very generous kits that are well thought out. Last month, she drove up from Menasha and presented an evening trunk show for our members and an applique workshop the next day. Boy, did I do a pouty face because I could not go...stormy weather and night driving for me are not a good mix.) At any rate, she brought along a number of her newer products, one of which were these Binding Needles.</div>
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I heard many positive comments from people who tried them, so of course...count me in! (No affiliation here) </div>
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They are about the same length as a straw needle...</div>
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But so much firmer - easy to thread and very nice to use...if you have the opportunity, give them a try. </div>
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Just a couple of photos of the completed utility quilt - the colors are difficult to photograph, but happy to cross this old UFO off my list.</div>
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Also joining in with <a href="http://theconstantquilter.blogspot.com/" id="id_e3ab_1228_ea80_b2cb">Wendy over at The Constant Quilter</a> with a completed mini - the applique portion was done during a sweet workshop with Dawn from <a href="http://collectorwithaneedle.blogspot.com/" id="id_8ad7_5f18_c5c0_ba8b">Collector With A Needle</a> when she visited our guild...just thinking what super nice presenters we have! </div>
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And wrapping up - as if I don’t have enough major applique projects going on...I have fallen head over heels in love with the Rowdy Flat Library Quilt by <a href="http://patchworkonstonleigh.typepad.com/" id="id_e342_222e_c3ba_f95f">Susan Smith of Australia</a> Love that it is both whimsical and inspired by a Welsh quiltmaker (who just happens to have the same last name as my maiden name) circa 1840. I was craving something that just said Spring!! and this definitely answers that. It is a BOM and the first pattern has been received and begun...dipping into my supply of lights and pastels - a departure from the darker, muddy colors I usually work with. </div>
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That’s it for now...wishing you a week filled with lovely moments. </div>
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Happy stitching!</div>
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Pat</div>
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PS - are you a devoted follower of Jane Kirkpatrick? Just finished her Emma of Aurora trilogy - one of my favorite quotes -</div>
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“Women are the brooms of the world - they clean houses and clean souls. But often they get put back in the corner until the next mess needs to be cleaned up.” Alison Saar </div>
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<br>Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-55565873817549662292019-04-07T14:51:00.000-05:002019-04-07T14:51:48.104-05:00Spring cleaning????As I work outside for the first time since last Fall, the sound of sandhill cranes, returning geese and redwing blackbirds brings a quiet joy to my heart...while we still may have snowflakes in the days ahead, the gentle rains that are washing away the snow banks tells us that the brutal winter we have come through is about over.<br />
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Lilacs are still weeks away from putting on their show, but I just longed for a change in my blog header that says Spring and reminds us how fragrant the air will be.<br />
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Still busy in the sewing room keeping on track with Gay's BOM over at Sentimental Stitches. These blocks are for Round 2 (April) of the Cheddarback quilt. I may redo the lower right hand block as it looks a little wonky to me.<br />
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And another old UFO has come out of the quilting cave and placed onto the Q Snap Floor Frame. I am using #8 Perle Cotton for tying - something I like to do on certain utility quilts. This quilt is more Spring-like in colors and is being tied from the back for less obvious tacking on the front when using a heavier yarn. I do a running thread from point to point, then when completed, the threads will be clipped and tied off.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNh8k4-eXM1ZEOP7Rp0aH8bdBKKu4YQlBUhllXfgoLGqzI_MSVH3kr8FeKqa-I7Midqt5TZ-HCVOLOK11vidJehNi8CwFS7Yigj6xjGMIBWx7YNazL_NpnR-ePBvahUiEPEpv3tp3bCoA8/s1600/IMG_0616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNh8k4-eXM1ZEOP7Rp0aH8bdBKKu4YQlBUhllXfgoLGqzI_MSVH3kr8FeKqa-I7Midqt5TZ-HCVOLOK11vidJehNi8CwFS7Yigj6xjGMIBWx7YNazL_NpnR-ePBvahUiEPEpv3tp3bCoA8/s320/IMG_0616.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This will be my <a href="https://www.elmstreetquilts.com/2019/04/one-monthly-goal-april-goal-setting.html">April OMG</a> for Patty over at Elm Street Quilts...just squeaking by in time for entering this month as her link closes down in a few hours.<br />
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Finally, Spring cleaning will start this week and I came across an ad from Libman (no affiliation!) that features 6 Ways To Make Spring Cleaning Fun For The Whole Family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4qMENXl6NygncfOPjMPbwjCZ9BnJS7PIZeP7NTSFrk2wlZt4q5aYZK9TcN6gEX-aIoLGEJ1QFgFjPYPIP_ZkkGitUpZXQgBLpj6ejp1wFMQWaPi9Z1IzphGKG5PhxoEWTiEx1Q2cVzeP/s1600/IMG_0614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="638" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4qMENXl6NygncfOPjMPbwjCZ9BnJS7PIZeP7NTSFrk2wlZt4q5aYZK9TcN6gEX-aIoLGEJ1QFgFjPYPIP_ZkkGitUpZXQgBLpj6ejp1wFMQWaPi9Z1IzphGKG5PhxoEWTiEx1Q2cVzeP/s320/IMG_0614.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I shared with Mr. Outback (who would much rather focus on outdoor chores)and he laughed so hard, we did not get pass #1 which is to give everyone a personalized bucket...oh well..it was worth a try...guess I will be the only one with a name on a bucket.<br />
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All for now - hoping Spring has arrived in your part of the world!<br />
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PatPathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-676650259809620180.post-31817564583162073992019-03-23T12:56:00.000-05:002019-03-26T08:40:54.474-05:00Stitched...bound...and delivered...The last couple of weeks have been devoted to completing the comfort quilt for my friend who is undergoing chemo...and the days have been quite busy and somewhat hectic. I did remember to grab a quick photo of the completed quilt before delivering it.<br>
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Big chunks of fabric and a very simplistic layout along with basic machine quilting got it done...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_73ac_efd5_9c41_2a2a" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ulTzNeWqM-w9k_sO2YQtLBqaRrFEQEUt" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip=""><br>
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Being somewhat apprehensive as to how the quilt would be received, I was so happy to get multiple hugs! The flannel backing in particular has been greatly appreciated. We decided a good name for the quilt is “Be well!” which is what I most sincerely wish for this dear lady. </div>
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Meanwhile, here at Taylorsoutback, we have finally broken away from the tough winter weather - the days have turned sunny and soft breezes are giving us a little taste of Spring warmth...our driveway and deck continue to grow more visible as do a few edges of my raised beds in the garden. We can even reach the outdoor grill! Knowing how Spring in Wisconsin behaves though...we are wise to her ways...cold and snow can still appear, but at least it won’t linger as long. </div>
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As for the sewing room...some slow hand applique has been going on - and the sewing machine continues to get lots of attention. It is hard to resist Gay Bomers over at <a href="http://sentimentalstitches.com/" id="id_8c75_405_dde8_1662">Sentimental Stitches</a> when she offers yet another BOM challenge based on an antique quilt...wanting to brush up on my piecing skills and also tap into my growing collection of reproduction fabrics, I have jumped into her Cheddarback quilt...Gay has set up a Facebook page and just last week, the participating count was 500+! Everyone is showing a fascinating variety of fabrics and it is always fun to “meet” new quilters and at the same time, recognize others who have made the same quilting journey on previous BOM projects.</div>
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Here is the first month’s offering...we have done a 12” (finished) block and 4 5” (finished) blocks. Eventually all will be joined together with sashing and cornerstones. I have not decided on that part yet...will wait to see how everything plays out...</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_ba3d_2e92_76f6_f1b8" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o5nVx5JfklXj9jj5cJ7854o7cZ581fIG" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip=""></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">There is a bonus block offered and I am deciding on fabrics as I type! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">That’s it for now...will link up to </span><a href="https://www.elmstreetquilts.com/2019/03/one-monthly-goal-march-finish-link-up.html" id="id_ba3c_de34_92f5_9d0b">Patty’s <font size="4">OMG</font> for March</a><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"> with the Be Well quilt - loving her program as it has really made it possible for me to stay focused and move things forward.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Wish I had a photo of something blooming outside like other bloggers...but we are still snowcovered. For now I will share a card I received from our Dave and Jena - they know of my love for Stargazer lilies...this card is definitely a keeper! </span></div>
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<img alt="" id="id_d2fd_a9d2_de6f_79d7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18Zi1QRQQ85xNekU-toTikDNkIRi22_Bv" style="height: auto; margin: 4px; width: 550px;" title="" tooltip=""><br>
<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">And I could not pass up a little bouquet of real Stargazer lilies at the grocery store...oh the fragrance...</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Wishing everyone a lovely weekend and as always...Happy Stitching.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Pat</span></div>
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Pathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07395890193161794631noreply@blogger.com17