Thoughts From Taylorsoutback

The Stitching Faerie and Bias Tape Maker Success!

2012-02-26T14:35:00.001-06:00

Perseverance, fortitude and dedication...a quilter must have all of these traits...but having a very clever and creative friend tops them all! Thanks to one of my applique stitching friends who also owns one of the Simplicity Bias Tape Makers, the mystery of the non-folding 1/4" tip has been solved. At a recent get together, we had dueling bias tape maker machines...

Barbara Jean discovered that if you cut the bias strips 1/8" wider than recommended in the instructions...(we are told that if the final bias tape or stem should finish to 1/4", then cut the strips at 1/2" - just like using one of the Clover bias makers)...

...in this case, cut the strips 5/8" wide...then you can see by the photos, a perfectly folded bias stem emerges from this lovely little machine and we are now on very good terms with each other...most of the time...
Still have a little issue with how yards of prepared bias feed when the joining seam hits the narrow tip end...

As you can see, the edges have a tendency to open up, so I am playing with how the seam is tapered.

It is important to have the seam allowance going away from the entry point on the tip.

At any rate, it is minor as those little edges can be needle-turned in when appliqueing.

I made 5 yards though in less than a minute...I know, I know, this isn't a race...but it is kind of fun! And once my borders are set up, it means I can get to the appliqueing that much sooner...and I didn't burn my fingers.

So, in my final report about the Simplicity Bias Tape Maker - I would give it an A-. End of story!

Look what Lemon Verbena Lady sent me...isn't this little Stitching Faerie the sweetest??!!! (Love the strawberry held by the bird - like William Morris' The Strawberry Thief)

She will hold a place of honor in my sewing room and watch over everything. The people I have "met" through blogging are so incredible - Nancy is so knowledgeable about herbs and gardening in general. I have learned much from her and her friendship is one of life's treasures.

Life is very good at Taylorsoutback these days...hectic, but good. The back is 100% better, my seed order from Renee's Garden has arrived and even though there is snow in the air, the daylight lingers a little longer each day. Lots of things going on quilting wise and there will be more posts coming soon to show you what I have been up to.

Have a good week and come back to visit soon!

Little Scrappy Houses & Simplicity Bias Tape Maker - Part Deux

2012-02-14T19:53:00.000-06:00

Well, I could say things have been quiet around Taylorsoutback lately, but that would not be true. It has actually been very busy with road trips of all manner...and stories for another time...

But first an update on my Simplicity Bias Tape Maker situation with the problematic 1/4" tip...I contacted Simplicity via email and connected up with a helpful staff person who gave various recommendations to try - all of which I had all ready attempted with no progress. They did send me a brand new tip to see if that would work...I had to chuckle when it arrived though...do you think the packaging is a little overkill? It was safe and sound!

I will give it a try as soon as my back is better - moving boxes around and steering the 4 wheeler with the plow attached really did a number on my ability to stand or walk. Ouch!
I do have a growing stack of little scrappy houses - and started putting some rows together to see how they were looking. Just had to piece the main center house to build around it. We live in a log home with a dark green roof, green doors & window trim and stone accents.

(Note: - this quilt is turning out to be one filled with many memories - fabric exchanges with friends, fabric used in another special project. On the middle row of houses, third house in from the left, a piece of pink print fabric on the house is from the very first bolt we received when the quilt shop was getting ready to open - 1991. We numbered each bolt as it was unpacked and it was #0001. More of it went into the frame containing the 1st dollar the shop made on the 1st day.

I admit it - I am a very sentimental quilter....

A fun road trip to Hazelhurst and Minocqua in Northern Wisconsin - with friends not seen often enough - a good day together filled with sunshine and clear roads. And a shopping bag containing some new fabric...

Auditioning sashing & cornerstones for my Civil War quilt blocks...

All for now - heading off to my comfy chair and a warm heating pad...

Wishing each of you a good week!

Reviewing the Simplicity Bias Tape Maker

2012-02-01T17:30:00.005-06:00

Having emerged from a month long cleanout of our basement, victorious and decluttered, I welcome February with open arms and vow to be like William Morris - only have things that are useful and beautiful in the future...all righty, then...will see how long that lasts! For now, the house feels lighter and I am smug with accomplishment.

Back to quilting - have been playing with my new gadget.

The Simplicity Bias Tape Maker, purchased at Joann's with a 50% coupon which saved a nice bundle of pennies......I tend to be slow to embrace technology but after seeing a friend demo this, I was smitten with the possibilities.

It claims to make miles of bias tape in minutes...I did a trial run using the standard 1" tip which comes with the machine...and it made very nice single fold tape...perfect for using on the scalloped edges of quilts and something I will be happy to use.

Because Joann's does not offer the 1/8" or 1/4" bias tips, I ordered those through Nancy's Notions. The 1/4" tip is particularly important to me because of all the border vines needing to be made for the Cherry Tree Quilt project. Unfortunately, that tip is the one giving me grief at the moment. You can see in the photo what is happening. The strips refuse to emerge from the ironing platform in a folded state. All I can get is nicely pressed FLAT strips.


NOT GOOD - COMING OUT FLAT, SHOULD HAVE BOTH EDGES FOLDED INWARD

Grrrrrr!!!! I don't know if the tip is defective or there is a design issue, but I have contacted Simplicity direct with my concerns and will post on this blog if I get a followup from them. I sure hope so!

I then went on to the 1/8" tip fearing poor results again, but incredibly, it worked very well...just think of the possibilities when appliqueing tiny stems...this is a photo of both the 1" and 1/8" strips...

So, if I had to grade this machine, it would be with a B- at this point. If we can get the 1/4" tip to working properly, it would be an A+ in my book. I have used the individual Clover tips for some time and they work very well, but the idea of mechanizing this is so cool...

I would love to hear about any experiences you have had with this gadget - positive or negative.

In the meantime, my tiny 3" houses are growing and I have just completed Cherry Tree Block #23 and am on to #24. Only one more after that. Will be posting images soon.

All for now...wishing each of you Happy Stitching.

Victoria & Albert Quilt Exhibit Book

2012-01-15T18:25:00.000-06:00

Back in 2010 a number of quilt blogs featured stories about attending the incredible quilt exhibition at Victoria and Albert Museum in England. How I dreamed of a magical flight over the Atlantic and standing in front of all the wonders...

The next best thing is about to happen - was browsing around Amazon at quilt history books and up popped a brand new one - you can pre-order this beauty...due out February 1st!

http://www.amazon.com/Quilts-1700-2010-Hidden-Histories-Stories/dp/1851776087/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326654515&sr=1-2

Back to reality...Though our Wisconsin January in the northwoods has been uncharacteristically mild, it is still winter and the lure of a cozy sewing ~~room~~ studio is too much to resist.

A friend of mine traveled through the Yukon last summer and just happened to discover a quilt shop in Whitehorse...this is what she brought back to share...

Really like the reds and blacks in the prints - the Yukon is home to many of the Tlingit First Nation and you will often see this color combination in their artwork & clothing.

Since my little carry tote from 2001 was showing signs of wear - poor handles...

...the happy gift of these unique fabrics quickly found a project to go into....

Have used this pattern a number of times over the years - it makes a nice little tote for guild meetings, doctors appointments or car service waitrooms - tuck a small piece of handwork in it or a camera and off you go. Quick to make and a fun break from all the reproduction prints I have been working with.

Hoping this posting allows comments - Blogger has sure been crazy lately...I have tried changing my comment format from "embedded" to "full page" - don't know if that will help but someone suggested it.

Grrrrrrrrhhh! Can you comment?

2012-01-14T09:19:00.000-06:00

A quick post about problems with comments this week...have heard from some of my regular readers - and thank you so much for contacting me as I was unaware of the situation! Apparently when attempting to leave a comment on my blog, everything freezes up or at some point, just doesn't complete the task.

Could you take a second and just tell me which browser you are using? Don't know if there is an issue with Firefox or Internet Explorer??? Or is Blogger up to mischief again...

If unable to comment, you can contact me via my Profile - email.

Thanks so much...comments are the life of any blog and I would be so sad if yours was missing!

The Quiet Hour

2012-01-11T17:50:00.000-06:00

It seems as though the 2012 weekly postings for Alphabe-Thursday have taken on a "memories of childhood" theme. This week the letter is "H". A major undertaking for the month of January is to Clean the Basement. This is not a project for the faint of heart...from my childhood high chair (almost 68 years old) old camping equipment, to the remnants of our son's left-behind household goods and everything in between - each day brings a flood of stored away images to my dust-clogged brain.

Monday of this week was Book Day...sorting through dozens upon dozens of books...photography books that will go with us on our next trip to Alaska, out of date computer manuals (I believe they are obsolete as soon as they leave the book store), fictional novels and long ago college textbooks. All are bundled and tied up with cording ready to be donated.

Except for one - this well read paper back -

What is so special about this particular book?...when I came across it, everything else was forgotten for a time...the pages were turned and once again, it was evening. Our young son had just finished a warm bath, and a favorite pair of pajamas had been jumped into (the kind with non-skid feet). "Mom, can we read again tonight?" And we would snuggle on the sofa and pick up the story from the previous evening...as I read to him of the adventures of Atreyu and Falkor, the day would unwind and the house would grow quiet. Eventually, those little eyes would grow heavy and the book would be marked where we stopped. Tucking him into bed was not an issue...I am happy to say we never had problems with a child who fought bedtime. I attribute that mostly to The Quiet Hour. As for me, those times are a treasure.

..."I wonder, what's in a book while it's closed. Oh, I know, it's full of letters printed on paper, but all the same, something must be happening, because as soon as I open it, there's a whole story with people I don't know yet and all kinds of adventures and deeds and battles..." Bastian - The Neverending Story

Tiny Houses Under Construction...

2012-01-08T14:07:00.001-06:00

Well, not sure if these little houses would pass government inspection but they sure are cute!

It is also obvious where my main color palette lies...the bin of scraps that I am pulling from definitely favors subdued fabrics...
Yes, I know this is not the neatest construction site...

...so if this quilt is to progress and look livelier, I need to be brave and introduce some brighter choices...

Was thinking back to the only other "house" quilt I have done - a few years back...these blocks were 8" finished if I recall -

They seem like "mansions" compared to the 3" cottages being built now.

Another Cherry Tree block has been completed.

And these two have been recently finished...

Do you use the Clover Needle Threader? I own two of them, and both give me shredded threads, needles that fly out of the holder and often simply don't work. I recently purchased the Sewline threader (ordered it through Clotilde) and with all the appliqueing being done lately, have found it to be much more reliable.

The needle locks in place, usually threads a #11 applique needle well and has a neat little holder in the bottom for other needles plus a magnetic end. Thanks to Janet over at Quiltsalott for recommending this!!
Also, curious to know if any of you on Blogger are having difficulty loading images? Seems to be an ongoing problem and I wish someone in the Forum would just get back to me...no response but it is apparent others are having similar problems.

That's it for now.
Have a good week and I am so happy you dropped by to visit!

"G" Is For My Little Ginny...

2012-01-04T10:35:00.001-06:00

It must be the post-Christmas days that are making me so nostalgic. Remembering long ago Christmas mornings when growing up, bring back memories of the excitement of opening a longed-for Christmas doll. So come along and may I introduce you to my favorite doll of all... Ginny was created by the Vogue Doll Company and in 2011, they celebrated their 89th year of dollmaking. Read more about the history of Ginny, who originated in the home of a Massachusetts woman (dolls made in the USA!) by going to http://www.voguedolls.com
Ginny is ready for a day on the slopes...

She arrived in her personal blue trunk -

Inside, was a place where she could be stored, a little slide out hook for hanging her outfits, a drawer that pulled out to hold miscellaneous items, and Ginny's little suitcase, ready for world travel.

The Vogue Doll Company offered hundreds of handmade outfits to choose from and my Mom would surprise me with a special one at birthdays and Christmas time.Ginny owned party dresses, little checked shirts and jeans with a straw hat for picnics, a corduroy playsuit, riding jodhpurs and of course a jammie set complete with mirror, comb and little bedroom slippers.

Ginny owns more shoes than I do!

Her travel suitcase, complete with socks, one glove (where did she lose the other one?) and unmentionables, of course.

Over the years, as I grew away from childhood, many of the other dolls in my room would be passed on to other little girls but Mom kept Ginny for me, knowing we had a special bond with each other.

Be sure to visit the other "G" postings over at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.

Quilter's Organizer.com

2012-01-01T11:21:00.000-06:00

Oh how I wish there was such a website...where a button could be clicked and the sewing ~~room~~ studio would be instantly clean and ready. Where I could go to a menu and "select" which project my little heart desired that day (without getting sidetracked by all the others) and where there would magically appear just the right amount of yardage needed...in just the right color, washed, pressed and neatly arranged on the cutting table...

Well dream on...because this is my ~~mess~~ reality on January 1, 2012...

Are you like me? Where the start of a shiny New Year brings us the notion that anything is possible...all the quilts in our hearts will be created in the weeks ahead? Living in North Central Wisconsin, the next three wintery months stretch into the snow covered woods and it is prime time for anyone who quilts. What have I got on the "Dream List?"

Two major year long projects are winding down...
Have caught up on Barbara's Civil War Blocks and now must decide on sashing and settings...the last of the blocks...

Can't believe it - but only 3 blocks left to do on the Beyond the Cherry Tree Applique Quilt - (the four borders will make for a nice portable project when traveling later in the year).Will be posting photos of the recently completed ones soon (Blogger seems to be difficult with doing multiple images lately)

Have made commitments recently for two online projects - check out both of the buttons up above on the sidebar - Just Takes 2 (no blocks done yet - need a trip to the LQS for 9 yards of background fabric - yikes!) and Building Houses From Scraps (there are certainly enough scraps around to make those 366 houses) - this is the first one - only 365 more to go...3 inches when done - so darn cute! But I can tell right away, they should be scrappier to give the sides of the house more definition. Need to decide on little sashings and cornerstones too.

So now, it is the New Year with brand new 24 hours in each day - anything is possible!!! That and a trip to the LQS will be a start...

But first I had best clean up the mess - watching the first season of Downton Abbey again will help and refresh the memory for January 8, when the 2nd season begins...quality TV returns!

Happy days to each of you...

2011 Blessings

2011-12-25T12:48:00.000-06:00

There are only a few more days left in this roller-coaster year...we have seen the best and the not-so-good on this beautiful, but delicate, planet we call home. Politicians who know nothing of reality and continue to waste our time and monies, corporations continuing to behave badly, weather disasters that took lives and homes, saying goodbye to loved ones - the sad things are endless. Then the images of joyous reunions as our troops return home, people who give with generous hearts to those who need it most, advancement in the treatment of diseases, the good things are endless too.
I hope 2011 has been kind to each of you, dear readers...so during this week before we receive the gift of a new slate, new opportunities, new experiences...take time to remember the Blessings of this past year.

My own dozen Blessings - the computer doesn't have enough storage space to list them all...

1. A family that is as "constant as the North Star."
2. Having my Mom (86) and Dad (93) with us.
3. Knowing our Dave and Jena are well and happy in Alaska.
4. Losing 6 pounds! :o)
5. Motivated to lose more...
6. Making the Christmas turkey stuffing with home-grown herbs.
7. Molly and Kelsie and all the sweet memories of our Sasha.
8. Each of you who take the time to read my wandering thoughts & the online friendships that have formed.
9. My sewing ~~room~~ studio
10. Books
11. Beautiful music
12. The special groups of ladies that I meet with regularly and share the bond of quilting with.

Always keep the child in you nearby - as a toddler, there are misty memories of sitting in a rocking horse and about 15 years ago, I found one exactly like my memory - it had to come home with me.

Wishing each of you Blessings in 2012!

Linking up with Alphabe-Thursday over at Miss Jenny's - be sure to visit all the other postings for this week.

A Wish For You...

2011-12-11T22:45:00.001-06:00

In a winter garden,
I saw the snowflakes gleam,
Just like in my childhood -
Winter wishes, winter dreams...

What ever your faith, where ever you are around the globe, near or far, I would like to wish each of you in the spirit of this special time of year, blessings and all that is good in the New Year.

(Taking a little blogging break - back soon)

The "E"yes Have It!

2011-12-06T22:24:00.001-06:00

This week over at Miss Jenny's, our class letter is "E" - so the little set of matching Eye balls has made a return...

You might remember them from back in October when I had the first cataract surgery...had the left eye done on Tuesday of this week and now have a matched set...so brighter days ahead and hoping for clearer vision. Just a smooth, quick procedure - all of 10 minutes or so, a little cup of ginger ale with a straw to speed me on my way and a huge pair of dark sunglasses to dampen the glare off the white snow.

Today is dedicated to doing a few more simple Christmasy tasks - and doctor says no snow shoveling for a week...aw shucks:o)

Be sure to visit the other "E" postings for Alphabe-Thursday.
Wishing everyone days filled with clarity and light.
Back soon...

Quilters Christmas Party

2011-12-05T14:21:00.001-06:00

We had our first Christmas gathering with quilting friends last Thursday. The Liberty Ladies group I belong to does an annual Cookie and Gift Exchange. This year, as always, everyone had a great time...visiting, sharing and planning for what we will be doing in 2012. This year has been focusing on the Anniversary of the Civil War and next year is the War of 1812 (visit Barbara Brackman's blog)

Everyone brought cookies to exchange and we all came home with a nice variety of sweet things for ~~ourselves~~ family members.

And then the gift exchange...oh my! We drew numbers and each gift had a corresponding number, so we had no idea what was in it or who made it until the final reveal.
Fun little wool appliqued purses for going out and about...

Unique needlecases...a wooden case with 2 levels and silk ribbons...

A tiny Whitman's Sampler tin outfitted to hold needlework tools...

One of the ladies does a cross stitched Santa every year...

This little wool table mat featured beading and also included a Santa ornament...

A Christmas wreath made using the Lil' Twister ruler and a vintage-look ornament...

And some little quilts - from dolly size complete with a pillow pincushion and crocheted angel...

A little nine patch made with William Morris reproduction fabrics...

This lovely star is made using Lately Arrived From London fabric

And lots of HST's in this nice quilt made from a Lori Schmidt pattern..

This is the little quilt I made from Jo Morton's Small Quilts and Vintage Charm book...

And so another holiday is kicked off with fun and friendship...with busy days ahead...
Wishing each of you days filled with friends and special moments.

"D" Is For Dogs Rule...

2011-11-30T23:14:00.000-06:00

For 45 years there has always been at least one special dog occupying our home...no matter where we lived. From an amazing German Shepherd (who eventually served in Vietnam as a Sentry Dog) to classic Standard Collies and then to our love affair with shelties...dog bowls, kibble, trips to the vets, buying sticky rollers in bulk and endless bags of collected fur have been part of our lives.

With anticipation and joy each has been welcomed, and spoiled beyond logic. And with each sad goodbye, they have taken a part of us with them.

If you are a regular reader, you might remember that back in September, with such heavy hearts, we let our Sasha go.

I contacted the breeder where we found this loving sheltie to let Patty know Sasha was gone. She sent the most comforting email to us and included this eloquent little essay.

"It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life, gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be Dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are."
(Anonymous)
It has become a favorite of mine and I hope you enjoy it too.

In 2008, I read this beautifully written novel...a mystery, a coming of age and an amazing story of dogs and humans...

Now rereading it and finding that I missed so much the first time through - have a special dog(s) in your life?...this book is a must! So when you think about all the things to be Thankful for this week, remember your sweet companions who only ask to be treated with kindness, fed when their tummy clock goes off and who serve as an example of how humans can also love unconditionally.

This week's Alphabe-Thursday is for the letter "D" - you can see all the other "D" postings over at Miss Jenny's.

Civil War Blocks...

2011-11-26T16:27:00.001-06:00

Was starting to get a tad nervous at being 3, no make that 4 blocks, behind on Barbara Brackman's weekly Civil War Quilt blocks. If I start losing momentum, projects tend to get pushed off to the side...not good when you consider we are at Block #48 and there are only a couple left.

So, since this post Thanksgiving weekend has been very Novemberish...cold rain, very dark sky and drifts of fog weaving back and forth across the fields...I warmed up a mug of Honeycrisp apple cider, plopped a cinnamon stick in it and headed to the sewing ~~cave~~ studio.

Hours later, I emerged, blocks in hand and this is what was accomplished...

Yeh!!!! Caught up....
On one of the blocks - #48 West Virginia (blue and brown) I decided to do an inked inscription. Our paternal side of the family has roots in that State and so I got out our copy of the History of Martinsburg (Dad's hometown.)

...and picked out Company C, 3rd Regiment, Berkeley County to include in the center of the block.
Written in 1888 - only 23 years after the Civil War - the book refers to the War as "War of the Rebellion."

I like to incorporate inked inscriptions on some of my quilts - this was a little Album quilt I did earlier this year in connection with a short talk I gave in our Quilt History Study Group (Liberty Ladies).

It is a tiny version of the quilt that was presented to Clara Barton by a group of soldiers in recognition of her tireless nursing service during the war. Each block was inscribed with signatures.

Back during our November quilting retreat, I worked on this tablerunner - a birthday gift for Jena. Since she has received it, the completed project can go up for Show and Tell....it ended up as a very large tablerunner....about 52" long!

Included with the tablerunner were two little linen towels I had added simple borders to.

Happy to say, Jena really liked her gifts! And I really enjoy making things for her!!

That's about it for now...a busy week coming up with stitching friends coming for lunch on Wednesday and then on Thursday, our Liberty Ladies gift and cookie exchange...the holiday pace is picking up speed.

Wishing everyone a good week...I can hear those sewing machines humming around the world...

The Arrival...

2011-11-20T20:02:00.001-06:00

of colder weather, finds me drifting over to some favorite blogs that originate in the Deep South or as far away as Australia...gazing at their green grassy lawns and blooming flowers or shrubs will satisfy my craving for growing things now that our own surroundings are blanketed in snow. Our temperatures may fluctuate in the days ahead and the illusive sun might show itself long enough to melt some of the cover, but we can rest assured that it will be late March or early April before a bare ground is revealed. Now the evergreens are coated with the recent snowfall - their long branches bent towards the ground as if acknowledging acceptance that the growing season has come to a close and it is time to rest.

Few birds show themselves on such gray, overcast days. The migratory flocks left the Northwoods many weeks ago. The ice on our pond, which started as a tentative edging along the bank, has advanced to seal the entire surface in its embrace.

It is dark by 5:00 p.m. A pot of chicken soup and hearty pumpkin spice muffins provide a "comfort" dinner on a chilly night.

There are weekly treks over to the wood storage area to replenish the supply on the front porch. Fires burn continuously in the fireplace and in the evenings we are drawn to its warmth, perhaps to read or pick up a stitching project. Football on TV or a movie make for diversion. The dogs seek out their favorite spots, content in knowing their people are close. Quiet descends around us like a heavy wool cloak, insulating the house from the outside world. Winter has arrived at Taylorsoutback.

Wishing each of you a warm and cozy week and a Thanksgiving filled with Blessings.

"C" Is For Cabin

2011-11-16T16:45:00.001-06:00

"There are elements of intrinsic beauty in the simplification of a house built on the log cabin idea..."
Gustav Stickley
It all started with a set of Lincoln Logs...I would sit on the floor with legs crossed and build a little log cabin, make up stories in my head, take the logs apart and rebuild in a different layout...maybe someday I would live in a real cabin...that first (circa 1940's) set is long gone now & that dream came true.
This is a group of logs from the '70's that our son grew up with...

He often talks about living in a log cabin someday...

High on a shelf in the sunroom sits a tiny cabin my brother made for me years ago. The roof lifts off and there is even a Christmas wreath on the front door.

While out for a drive recently, not too far from home, I came across an old, abandoned cabin which was in the middle of a field. It appeared to be melting into the ground around it...

Closed and no longer occupied, it looked lonely and forlorn and I wondered what its story was. In an age of manufactured homes, the idea of harvesting logs from the land and removing the bark, hewing and fitting them into place, all by hand, is so foreign to most of us.Our area is still sparsely populated and the homesteaders who lived there years ago were surrounded by deep forests and abundant wildlife. I hope they had a good life.
On our travels we have come across other memorable cabins....this tiny one room log cabin, which nestled into the hillside, was in danger of disappearing because of the new highway being built that runs around the shores of Lake Kluane in the Yukon.

A photo of a photo! This from our scrapbook.

On our 3rd trip to Alaska in 2010, the little cabin was still there, a testament to its ability to weather heavy winter snows and blowing winds off the huge lake and the advancement of road construction.

Last September as we approached the Alberta/Montana border, this wonderful cabin caught our eye. Judging from the lack of windows and wide doorway, it might have been used for housing early farm equipment...or perhaps shelter for animals?

Hope you have enjoyed visiting these old cabins and that you also wonder what their history is...
Be sure to visit the "C" postings over at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.

Two More Blocks...

2011-11-14T20:03:00.001-06:00

...And one of them is really kind of odd...in between non-related quilting commitments, progress has been made on two more Beyond The Cherry Tree blocks.
This first one has got to be a very strange arrangement...as I worked on it, I kept wondering what the quilter was thinking about. Where did she get the design? Was it her own creation or something she saw and laid out from memory?

Well, nevertheless, I will honor her and stay close to the original design...but I just had to attach all the stems...unlike the 1850's block where flowers were floating off into space.

The 2nd block is pretty straight forward though the little hills and valleys were somewhat tedious.

Now they are safely stored away with the other completed blocks and I can begin to see a little light at the end of that proverbial tunnel...only 5 more to go and then the long journey around the borders.

It has been somewhat quiet in our neck of the woods. Ever since an October doctor's appointment where words like Body Mass Index, more exercise needed, diet changes, etc. were thrown at me & a very discouraging weigh in on the clinic scale...well, let's just say the treadmill in the basement has renewed its acquaintance with me. The goal? Three miles each day...up to 2 now and there is no longer a little secret stash of chocolate to feast upon.

Wish me luck! I am going to need it...the other night, after our power had been off most of the day...well...confession time...I had a Haagen-Dazs melt down & polished off about a cup of refrozen butter pecan - I'm bad :o(

Have a good week and hope you have more self control than I...

The "B"est of Times...

2011-11-09T13:03:00.000-06:00

Have just returned from our annual Fall Retreat and feel refreshed...oh, life's stresses of before are still there and new ones have been added, but there is a little less befuddlement and the energy level has improved. Spending the weekend with 18 quilting sisters, being called to the dining room when meals are ready and non-stop sewing have a way of brightening these November days.

Bad blogger...I didn't even take my camera along...but can't show one of the projects I worked on anyway as it is going to be a gift. The rest of the time I did add to my stack of little 1 1/2" nine patches...

And a bit more piecing of HST's for the Canadian Rose quilt....

Was pretty good about the chocolate - ate in moderation - a big step for me!
Drank a little wine....

And had lots of good laughter, sharing and forgot about life's trials and tribulations...

Slowly I am gathering quilt history books from states & Canada that have a place in my heart...where we have lived, family roots, special trips...

This is the latest for my library...

Interesting to find that many of the quilts feature black fabrics...

Unknown pattern - circa 1877 - sold at auction in 1912 for $2.25!

This spectacular Whig's Defeat - a quilting triumph!

Love this Evening Star with cheddar...1900...

This one from Alamance County - I went to Elon College there (now University) back in the '60's. Wish I would have been more focused on quilts rather than parties! If I only knew....

"Cucumber" pattern - completely hand pieced including seams for backing.

Home for the day with much to catch up on...good thing as this is what we are having outside today...

Hoping you have the Best of Days this week...and be sure to visit Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday for lots of other "B" postings.

"A" Is For Artifacts...

2011-11-02T17:51:00.000-05:00

Do you sometimes wonder what you would do with your life's direction if you had the opportunity to change career's? I love quilting and might have pursued a certification in quilt appraisals or judging, perhaps. Early on, the field of nursing called to me or to be a librarian. But give me a shovel & other tools and I think archeology would have been the ticket...

Our first house in Wisconsin was located along the Wisconsin River. We inherited the former occupants garden site and the first few summers, it needed a lot of work...clearing out old growth, enlarging and Lots of shoulder jarring roto-tilling by Mr. Outback. Over the span of the seasons, we began to notice numerous amounts of quartz chips in the freshly turned over soil. A close friend of ours, who just happens to have one of the finest arrowhead collections in the entire state, looked things over and said our land was the site of a former Indian village. It made sense, being high on a hill overlooking the river which would have offered excellent navigation by canoe and visibility to the surrounding forest lands. Once while installing pipe for water irrigation, we unearthed an area that clearly showed different colors of strata - signs of a fire pit used for cooking...On rare occasions, the ground would yield up an arrowhead or identifiable parts of one. And one discovery helped to possibly date the village...
A scraping tool used for cleaning hides was discovered closer to the front of the house. Our knowledgeable friend estimated it was about 500 years old. And during the excavation for a new addition to the existing home, I picked up pieces of pottery - and uncovered a tiny stockpile of seeds...
This is my little "collection" of items retrieved...In the center is the scraping tool and surrounding that are the pottery shards and a couple of arrowheads - the tiniest being a bird point with very fine "teeth".

The small square headed nail is from our present acreage which used to have a homesteader's cabin on it

A few years later, on one of our fishing trips to Canada, by Vermilion Bay in Ontario, we pulled the boat up to a very small island and decided to explore. There were no posted signs. Walking through hip high grasses, we discovered what was left of an old cabin...roof long gone and walls caved in...glancing down on the rotting floor boards, I spied 2 strange looking wooden objects, partially covered by debris.

These hand carved pieces are used in mending fishing nets. Somehow they had held up as the cabin decayed around them over the decades.
Fossils found along a river bed in Missouri, a variety of rocks collected throughout the Yukon and Alaska...those are my souvenirs and that is my way of touching and connecting with those who have come before me and left their mark.

"A" is for Artifacts - and is the first letter of Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday as we begin another round. Visit all the other "A" postings.

A Little Quilting....

2011-10-30T22:34:00.000-05:00

About 3 weeks post cataract surgery and the world is brighter! Had the right side done and will have the left eye taken care of in early December and then - oh wonders! - new glasses to start off the New Year...what a treat that will be...in the meantime, you will have to put up with a larger font on my blog...that is about as good as it gets for the time being:o) The down side of this whole thing is becoming aware of just how dusty all our interior logs had gotten...so have been doing some heavy duty Fall cleaning...

Note: Did you know you could get little foil wrapped chocolate eyeballs? My quilting Bud, Dee, knew where to find them and presented some to me as we celebrated my new brighter outlook!

That's what friends are for!!!

So...a little quilting...did take some time to complete a couple of smaller projects. Carpenter's Wheel - about 15" X 15"

A Fall tablerunner - Moda's Dominque fabrics...

Trying to keep up with Barbara's Civil War Quilt Blocks.

Yep - I know the one corner patch on the bottom block runs differently - thought it added to the vintage look - maybe?

And was rummaging around in the sewing room in one of my UFO bins...pulled these two "littles" out - done so long ago, I can't remember when.

Time to get them layered and quilted. Since I hand pieced the small red baskets, handquilting is probably in order...might give the quilting hand another go and see if it has gotten more comfortable. Even found a little piece of ivory and red toile for the backing.

You never know what lurks in the stash. The '30's piece - "Water Wheel" was paper pieced and with all the seams, it will probably go under the machine for completion.

And that is about it for now...a busy week coming up with my brother flying in from the West Coast for a visit...my folks are so happy he will be here - long overdue. Then our Liberty Ladies Quilt History Study Group is doing our annual Potluck...and somewhere in between all of this, need to pack for my Fall Retreat next weekend...really looking forward to that...great friends, great times and great sewing!!

Wishing each of you a good week and lots of accomplishments - no matter how "little."

October Eves....

2011-10-26T19:15:00.000-05:00

Visiting all the wonderful blogs these days can sure attest to the popularity of Halloween - so much creativity and whimsy going on.... here at Taylorsoutback, things are very low key compared to many others. The overall look is more of Autumn - a leafy garland along the fireplace mantle, a bundle of Indian corn on the table or perhaps a favorite seasonal tea pot waiting to serve a delicious tea.

Propped on the hallway bench is a large pillow - this came out of a long ago workshop I took with Lisa Bongean of Primitive Gatherings. It was my introduction to working with wool applique and a lot of fun...

But the real conversation starter is the rather large embroidered pumpkin - which some of you may have been introduced to before...

Thinking this was going to be something smaller, I started cutting out the pieces and quickly realized that it was not going to fit on the coffee table very well. So every Autumn, it holds forth on the buffet, making its own statement...and a reminder to me to check dimensions of patterns before purchase:o) To give you an idea of its scale, there are 8 yards of braided green cording surrounding it. I must admit though to having grown rather fond of it over the years and always chuckle when I walk by.

A few other minor accents, and that is the story of Autumn at Taylorsoutback...Miss Jenny has us on a Fall Break with Alphabe-Thursday - so be sure to visit all the other Autumnal postings.

"Listen! the wind is rising,

and the air is wild with leaves,

We have had our summer evenings,

Now for October eves!"

-Humbert Wolfe

A Quilt That Whispers....and A Winner!

2011-10-23T20:58:00.000-05:00

Do you favor vintage or reproduction quilts over more contemporary ones? Get a little weak in the knees when looking at a breathtaking antique red and green appliqued beauty? Does your heart sing when you spy a quilt that has shirtings or madders or touches of cheddar?

Years ago, I found this quilt top in a shop just west of Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Not sure what initially drew my attention but I liked the pink sashing, the variety of reds, shirtings, and the one block featuring fabric from the Centennial in 1876.

It is said that dating older quilts means it is only as old as the newest piece of fabric. This particular quilt top is 1900 or so (at the latest ?). Like those of us today who pull from our stash, the quilter might have done the same thing. Most of the blocks are hand pieced though the sashing was applied by machine. Notice the frugality - the red and black check (known as Garibaldi red) square has been pieced to make a complete square.

The block pattern goes by numerous names according to Brackman's Encyclopedia of Pieced Blocks...4X Star, Churn-Dasher, Five Patch Star, New England Block, Greek Cross and my very favorite - Father's Choice.

Not sure if it was a group effort as the work is quite consistent. Did a single quilter sit quietly of an evening, pulling scraps of fabric from her basket as thoughts and dreams circled in the room around her? It has never been quilted or tied and is in quite good condition with a few minor stains. It is whispering to me..."please add a nice batting and a simple backing so I can be shared with everyone...my quilter would like that." Maybe an all over classic Baptist Fan to add soft curves...keep whispering...I am listening...

Oh! I suppose you would like to know the winner of the Quilt Book Giveaway...just had to watch our Packers go 7 and 0 in the season! I will wander over to that name-filled pumpkin...who will it be...??

And.....it is Carrie from A Passion For Applique! Carrie has a great blog with lots of wonderful posts that include applique and informative tips...be sure to give her a visit.

That's it for now...have a good week and listen for whispers...you never know where they might come from.

Quilt Book Giveaway - reminder!

2011-10-21T16:54:00.000-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Friday from the Northwoods of Wisconsin and sending a quick reminder out that you have until Sunday, October 23rd to enter your name for the quilt book giveaway - visit here for more background info on the book...

Just leave a comment and your name goes in the drawing - become a new follower and it goes in twice...there is still room in that pumpkin, so get goin'!!

See you on Sunday....

A Quilt Book Giveaway!

2011-10-16T11:34:00.000-05:00

Have some projects in the queue for 2012 and one of them involves the Russian Sunflower pattern based on an antique quilt I saw...so, of course, that meant ordering a new book.., .which I received from the Pickledish Store in a very timely fashion. But on Friday of this week, another package from Pickledish arrived...turns out it was a duplicate. I got a reply from them right away to my email and sure enough...their warehouse had made a mistake and shipped two copies. Incredibly, they said to just keep the 2nd copy with their compliments...how is that for customer service? Soooooo....want to turn this around and hope to find a new owner for the duplicate which is....

This 2001 publication (Kansas City Star) presents patterns for both a pieced block and an appliqued version - side by side. Edie McGinnes also includes interesting snippets on the history of the blocks. Many are 1930's or earlier - so if you love vintage looks, I am betting you will enjoy this. A little glimpse...

All you have to do is leave a comment on this posting & your name goes into my little pumpkin - would love to have you become a Follower - do that and your name goes in Twice...

The winner's name will be drawn next Sunday, October 23rd. So sorry, shipping confined to US and Canada. Checked international rates & so prohibitive...so sad :o(

I would love to see that little pumpkin over flowing with entries - so be sure to leave that comment right away!

"Z" Is For Zinnias

2011-10-12T16:13:00.000-05:00

As the last summer-like days fade, the gardens are cleared and prepared for the long winter ahead. Little treasures are found...

This tiny bouquet has lasted for over two weeks in a favorite little jug.

Renee's Garden Seeds - Persian Carpet Zinnias

Be sure to visit Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursdays "Z" postings and wishing each of you a week filled with your own new found little treasures.

Guilty pleasures...fabric & books

2011-10-09T21:32:00.000-05:00

Up here at the edge of the Northwoods, we are enjoying 80 degree days and full sunshine...very different from a typical October. Needless to say, everyone is out savoring these last days of summer-like weather. We are wise - we know what lies ahead...we cannot be fooled into thinking it will linger much longer. All too soon, the days will turn brisk and nightfall will bring below freezing waves of air. We will draw close to the fire, add more layers of warmth to the fading tans of our bodies and look intently at the pantry for comfort foods - soups, stews and hearty casseroles.

Being seriously into quilting, my other pantry - the fabric stash - is receiving close inspection. I feel like a squirrel chasing around gathering acorns to hide away for winter consumption. So, confession time...I have been on a little binge of fabric buying...yardage & fat quarters have begun piling up on the cutting table. This has been going on for a few months...
From a couple of favorite vendors at our recent quilt show...

And more fat quarters purchased while on another fun bus trip with our Liberty Ladies group. (Well - more like a 3 car caravan due to our regular bus being attacked by a falling tree during last weeks wind storm - how could that tree single out our favorite mode of transportation?)

Oh, how could someone resist these at $25.00 for 25....

Or these...can you tell a few have all ready been put to use?

My naughtiness continues with this growing stack of books...

What? You say...Only one book related to sewing? Not to fear...on order from the Pickledish Store - an older book that is on sale...hope it arrives soon...There is a certain vintage quilt pattern that has caught my eye...more about that down the road...

I have managed to finish another BTCT applique block in between

buying sprees....

Hmmm...just had a scary thought...what if Mr. Outback decides to check out this latest posting? Should I gently remind him of all the lead shot, hulls & primers purchased for winter reloading in the man cave...no, I would never do that....but just in case, I should make his favorite carrot cake...
Guilty pleasures? No Quilty pleasures...to ward off the approaching winter...

Pat

Taylorsoutback is where...????

2011-10-05T14:08:00.000-05:00

Joining in on the fun over at As Sweet As Cinnamon Dawn has been blogging about how your blog name came to be. Be sure to visit the links from everyone - makes for some fascinating reading!
So here is my story and I am sticking to it...

Our son, Dave, got me started on blogging as a birthday gift - I received an email from him and was told to go to the link he provided...there I was - all set up with the basics for a brand new blog called The Journal of Taylorsoutback. (WordPress) I still remember the excitement of seeing that first official comment from someone...and was amazed that people actually stopped by.

January of 2011 brought me to Blogger and some of their features which I enjoy using vs. WordPress. The name of the blog was switched to Thoughts From Taylorsoutback at that time. It has been a good move.

Taylorsoutback refers to where we live in Northern Wisconsin...on 40 acres of former farmland with a nice pond and natural spring. Other than the original homesteaders who lived in a log cabin initially, we are the only family to have occupied the property. At some point, the cabin was replaced by a brick farmhouse which apparently burned quite a few years ago. We have a modern version of the first log cabin. We built our log home in 1995-96.
My husband was born in Sydney, Australia in 1943. My mother-in-law was born and raised in Australia and was one of the first Australian brides to marry an American officer during WWII. When we moved into our new home, Mr. Outback called it Taylorsoutback.

This is where my Thoughts From Taylorsoutback come from - way too many and never enough time to do it all...always busy with quilting, gardening, our shelties, and watching bears, deer and abundant water fowl on the pond throughout the changing seasons.

Thank you for dropping by - and please come again real soon!!
(And if you like to see quilts - check out my earlier post here.)

Linking up with Alphabe-Thursday for the letter of the week - "Y" - stretching it to include My Back Yard...too many fun places to be!

Come See the Quilts.....!!

2011-10-03T17:45:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! The Packers won, the UW Badgers won and the Brewers won...And our guild held its 15th Biennial Quilts Among the Pines. Wisconsin is an exciting place to be right now - so come along and see some highlights from over 300 entries. This year we saw lots of applique quilts and pieced star quilts on display...there were some beauties...(You should be able to click on each image and see an enlargement.)

Let's start off with Best of Show - from a gifted Texas quilter - hand appliqued and quilted on a long arm machine...

By the way, when you visit the Museum in Paducah this quilt will be on display and you can see it up close.

Make yourself comfortable...lots of images!

The 2011 Raffle Quilt was presented to the lucky winner at the close of the show on Sunday...

Blue Ribbon - 1st, Red - 2nd, White - 3rd & Green - Honorable Mention...
Pieced quilts...

Applique...

Photo does not do this one justice...the colors were wonderful - lots of French General pieces on a warm, taupey-gray background...

A contemporary approach...

This antique bed was the site of our popular Bed Turning...this year each quilt shown and discussed had to somehow be "recycled." Old quilt tops, rescued blocks, etc... The bed had quite a history of its own in that over the years, 13 babies were born in it!

More applique..

My first official applique quilt ...

Stars...!

Embroidery with wool applique...

And more applique...!

Don't you love this quote - I found it in a brand new quilting book just received. (more about books in the days ahead!)

"Methinks it is a token of healthy and gentle characteristics,
when women of high thoughts and accomplishments love to sew;
especially as they are never more at home with their own hearts
than while so occupied..."
Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Marble Faun, 1859

Are you "at home" with your own heart when quilting? We sure are!
Have a good week enjoying "high thoughts and accomplishments."

The Road To Autumn...

2011-09-25T22:51:00.000-05:00

...often leads to Quilt Shows...and our guild has one coming up next weekend...the 15th Biennial Quilts Among the Pines. If you happen to be in the Central Wisconsin area on October 1st and 2nd, drop by for a visit. We have 20 vendors coming in, 100's of quilts on display, demos, and our popular Bed Turning. This year, the Turning features quilts which are composed of "repurposed" fabrics, blocks, etc. There is a beautifully made Raffle Quilt which will be given to the winning ticket holder on Sunday. Raffle tickets may be purchased at the show.

2011 has been overly busy and I will only have two entries for the show. Just picked up the quilts from Lori Schmidt, a long arm quilter who lives nearby and now binding is being applied, labels made and hanging sleeves attached. I love the textures Lori created with her big quilting machine. Will just show you some close ups for now as the quilts are not officially finished.

The first one I named Jamaican Nights and is intended as a wedding quilt.

The second quilt is my first attempt at applique - a number of us in our quilt history study group - Liberty Ladies - decided to do this pattern by Lori Smith - From My Heart to Your Hands. It is Elizabeth's Pride but for me it was Applique 101!

Just completed is Block #39 in the Civil War Quilt series by Barbara Brackman. Hovering Hawks...

And most important is this little 6 1/2" patriotic block which will be mailed off this week.

In case you haven't heard about this comfort quilt project, visit http://thescrappyappleyard.blogspot.com/2011/09/star-block-fabric-example.htm for more information. A young soldier was recently killed and instead of a wedding which was to have taken place last week, a bride-to-be and the family must make funeral arrangements. The call has gone out for blocks...won't you please consider making one? Update - just reread the info and they are asking for an additional block to make a quilt for the close friend who was with the soldier when he died.

Thank you for stopping by to visit. I hope you have a good week and may all the autumn roads you travel be filled with beauty.

"The Wonderer"

2011-09-21T16:57:00.000-05:00

In honor of this weeks letter "W" on Alphabe-Thursday - one of my favorite poems is by Robert Service, who wrote so many delightful poetic stories and rhymes. This is an excerpt from "The Wonderer" -

"...Then there's the wonder of my Eyes,

Where hills and houses, seas and skies,

In waves of light converge and pass,

And print themselves as on a glass.

Line, form and color live in me:

I am the Beauty that I see;

Ah! I could write a book of size

About the wonder of my Eyes."

Pickhandle Lake, Yukon Territory - September, 2010

Please visit all the other "W" postings over at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.

Civil War Blocks

2011-09-18T14:05:00.000-05:00

After the last few days of non-stop garden to kitchen time, today is a day for savoring other thoughts...
The day is overcast, chilly and rainy and inside a cozy fire warms us. We have had a killing frost and the garden is no more for this season. The potting shed is filled to capacity with tomatoes in various stages of ripeness, winter squashes mellowing, herbs drying and tender potted plants temporarily stored in preparation for winter housing.

Jena has safely returned to Alaska - we miss her all ready! She stayed with us Wednesday and Thursday before returning to her folks and preparing for the long flight back home. What a delight she is to be around...

On a day like this my thoughts return to quilting...another Civil War block has been completed in Barbara Brackman's series.
# 38 - Ohio Star - a classic quilt block...

It struck me how far we have come...

Each week's printed pattern and history profile has accumulated in my binder.

And the stack of completed blocks has been growing...

A while back, I found this perfect backing on sale at Hancock's-Paducah.

Next decision will be what kind of sashing to use...no hurry though we still have a few more blocks to go!
Now Barbara draws us in to yet another bit of quilt history - her 1812 War and Piecing blog has me hooked all ready and I have been printing that information out as it appears...so much inspiration and there is just the most perfect piece of reproduction chintz in my stash......

All for now...want to finish watching our Super Bowl Champion Packers shake up things with Carolina...we have very fond attachments to all things North Carolina, but when it comes to the Pack...they have our total loyalty! That is just the way it is...:o)

GO PACK!!!

Have a good week everyone.

A Matter of Thyme...

2011-09-12T20:42:00.000-05:00

Glories in the morning - this greeted me as I headed out to the garden - the newly opened flowers rival the color of the sky.

Later, as I stood in the potting shed sorting through just dried thyme, it occurred to me, why not just go to the store and buy one of those little cans?

All those minute leaves to strip off the stems - so time consuming...but my heart wins out every time - the satisfaction of watching something grow, the harvesting and inhaling the fresh fragrance and later the taste in the kitchen - knowing the source and the fact that it had not sat on a shelf for months somewhere. A lot of the time here at Taylorsoutback is devoted to DIY but that's okay. The pleasure of growing, sewing and just plain doing is reward enough. Living out in the country, we don't get many "drop by" visitors...I am happy you are here. So let's catch up over coffee or would you prefer tea? Forgive me if I tend to ramble today....

We attended a special wedding this past weekend. It was a blending of tradition and 21st century innovations. Do you get teary eyed at weddings? I didn't use to but find my emotions are closer to the surface as I grow older...
The bride was beautiful and her new husband, handsome. They rarely took their eyes off each other...

Jena was Maid of Honor for her sister - and looked so lovely.

The Chapel was a renovated Old German church resplendent with original stain glass windows.

Somewhere summer has left us behind and the first hints of a seasonal change are in the works...the grass is heavy with morning dew following cool nights and dots of colored leaves are revealing themselves along country lanes. Few hummingbirds remain and crows gather in the fields harassing each other. Our pond is strangely quiet - no geese remain - except for a few feathers and bones of the last young goose who was left behind. We wondered why a mature bald eagle had come to visit us 2 days in a row...a stroll over to the dock showed us why and gave us a lesson of how Nature balances everything.

In the garden, the raised beds are being emptied - onions drying, the last of the beans gathered and the summer squash have slowed! Some of the zucchini have been shredded and mixed into loaves of zucchini bread for autumn and winter treats...

Working in the little herb garden, I gathered lemon balm and lemon thyme and added both to tiny lemon tea loaves.

Soaking in warm lemon glaze

This older book by Emilie Tolley and Chris Mead was the start of my attachment to all things herbal.

You can tell by the wear and sticky notes it is a favorite of mine. When I pull it off the shelf, it is as though an old friend has come to call.

You didn't think I would go too long without bringing up quilting, did you?
Blocks #35 & #36 in the Civil War series are done...

And another applique block for BTCT...

We just got the instructions and pattern for the outside borders...yikes! I really need to pick up the pace on the remaining blocks...those borders will fill many a cold, winter's night by the fire.

Told you I might ramble - thank you for taking the time to drop by...I really enjoy your visits and hope you will come back soon.
Wishing you a week filled with sweet moments and time for reflection on the goodness of life.

A quiet evening by our pond - a good place for reflecting...

Unique Artistry!!

2011-09-08T17:50:00.000-05:00

Well - late to class for Alphabe-Thursday with Miss Jenny - but I have a good excuse...the framing job for this wonderful piece of artwork was delayed due to waiting on some of the framing materials. Just picked it up this afternoon...

This is a belated birthday present for Mr. Outback. One of his two tours in Vietnam was with an aviation group that called themselves "Blue Stars." Maria at Personalized Sketches and Sentiments drew the unit's insignia and added a replica of Mr. Outback's Senior Army Aviator wings.

She did a wonderful job - look closely - the drawing is composed of Mr. Outback's name...Maria's attention to detail and her artistic skill really shines! (Click on each image for an enlargement)

Framed in brushed gold, matted in dark blue and inner accent mat of gold

Mr. Outback is happy - and I managed to pull off something unexpected!

Be sure to visit all the other "U" postings over at Miss Jenny's for this week's Alphabe-Thursday.

Back to quilting...

2011-09-06T20:57:00.000-05:00

After what seems like ages, I finally have some quilting to share again...experts say when any form of a dark cloud appears over you, keep busy. Those of you who live with pets know how the heart is affected at their loss. Last week, our Monday began with sad tears and by Saturday they had melted into happier ones with the arrival of Jena from Alaska.

Jena's Mom, Jena, Allison and Heather

We are known as Mom & Dad #2 - love it!!

She is the special young woman who we safely carried to our Dave last summer. Jena is home for two weeks and will be Maid-of-Honor in her sister's wedding on the 10th.

Never having met her sister, I took a chance on making this tablerunner in earth tones...

...turns out Allison had just painted the kitchen in a similar shade of the light green accent strip...Whew - I lucked out!

As for those weekly Civil War blocks from Barbara Brackman...with everything going on, I had fallen behind about 4 weeks. Managed to catch up recently and feel back on track.

Got thecolors misplaced - will redo this one!!

Also completed another of the BTCT applique blocks - this one much quicker and more simplified...

I needed a short break from the last couple which were more intense. Working on another easier wreath and about 1/2 way done...

Hope to share a completed quilt later this week - it is at the L.A. quilters studio right now - photo soon....

I have saved the most wonderful item for the very last...the story behind this pillow is based on a blog posting I wrote a number of months ago about how quilting is such a part of my life. Judy over at Shade Tree Quilting took one of my sentences and stitched the words onto a Redwork pillow (which just happens to be one of my most favorite embroidery forms). I was flabbergasted (isn't that a great word!!?) on opening the box to find this treasure waiting inside.

To think someone would spend the time to do this for me - I am touched beyond measure at Judy's thoughtfulness. The world of quilters is enormous and that bond we all share grows stronger every day.

Wishing each of you a wonderful week filled with accomplishments.

Tribute to Sasha

2011-08-31T16:26:00.000-05:00

Sasha - April 26, 1997 - August 29, 2011

MOLLY - SASHA (center) - KELSIE - RUNNING FREE ON THE BEACH BY LAKE KLUANE, YUKON TERRITORY

Our Sasha - of the sweet and naturally perfect sheltie ears...

Who lived to play Frisbee endlessly...

Who had a built-in tummy clock for meal time...

Whose face lit up every time she saw her favorite person - our Dave...

Who traveled so well by auto - even as far as the Arctic Circle...

Who was always shy, but devoted and loyal and went through life with dignity...

Who was filled with a gentle temperament.

Our dear companion...

(Please visit all the other "T" postings at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.)

A Smorgasbord....

2011-08-21T15:30:00.000-05:00

(Note: this post is from earlier in the week...we are going through a difficult time with our oldest sheltie in addition to a commitment this weekend. I hate to miss Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday so this is the best compromise for now...promise to visit the other "S" entries asap.)

You can tell summer is winding down...everyone seems to be pushing things into fast forward, trying to maximize each minute of the day. The gardens are finally producing in a manner that requires daily attention..zucchini mysteriously appear on everyone's doorstep, left quietly in the night by visitors...I think these got away from someone...

Actually, extra are appreciated as we shred the overgrown ones and freeze for future raw food prep used for our shelties. (No, you can't have my address!! :o)

Last weekend was spent with my dear friend, Connie, from Elkhorn. She probably needed a day or two to recuperate from our full day on Saturday. We started out with one of Mr. Outback's fine breakfasts...Apple Pancakes...(he is soooo proud of these...just ask him!)

Took off for the LQS and discovered a tent sale in place...made a couple of quick purchases with a promise to return after lunch. Met both our Mom's for a Mother-Daughter lunch at our favorite tea room...Johanna May's; then returned to the LQS (promises made, must be kept!) and did some more shopping. Picked up another friend and headed to the movies where we met 3 more friends & watched The Help. Just as in the book, one moment you are laughing so hard and in an instant, you are in tears. Such a powerful story and the acting is excellent. Abilene and Minnie will steal your hearts. You must see it soon! After the film was over, it was growing late and we had about a 50 minute drive home. Making an executive decision, we picked up 2 take and bake pizza's from Papa Murphy's, called Mr. Outback to let him know we were on the way and headed up the back roads towards home. Add in a couple of glasses of wine, and we were done for the evening! Any stitching thoughts were far from our foggy minds. Oh, we did muster up enough energy for dessert. I had made this pie on Friday -

From Bon Appetit's current issue, this recipe is one of the most amazing combinations of tastes ever. I love making curds, lemon, lime, etc. The only change made was baking a graham cracker crust which seems to compliment all the other flavors - rather than a traditional pie crust which they called for. Oh Yum! (You can't see it, but there is a hidden layer of blackberries made into a compote underneath the lime curd mixture...oh yes!!) After this I need to double up on the cholesterol meds...

Sunday we were 6 for breakfast - Mr. Outback's famous omelets and Tasha Tudor's Blueberry Coffee Cake. After everyone left, I checked the garden for peas, squash and cucumbers and then collapsed the rest of the day...
Did manage to complete another of the BTCT blocks & can now check this one off the to do list...lots of little "fingers" made for a time consuming applique block but am happy with the results.

And so the pace continues to accelerate...tomatoes & our apple trees have a hint of color, green beans and cucumbers multiply daily and recent nights have a little crisper touch to them...starlings are gathering, flocks of geese are moving and the eastern and southern fields are blooming with yellow tansy and goldenrod.

Have a wonderful week & as always your visits and comments just add so much to each day...come back again...lots of quilting stuff going on to share with you in the days ahead.

"R" Is For Rejuvenate

2011-08-17T17:34:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago we were in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (Negaunee) at a skeet shooting event.

Being at a testosterone-laden gun club for 4 days, finding a little "girl" time can be a challenge! Over the years, our numbers have shrunk and there are only a handful of skeet wives who travel with the husbands from event to event. There are a few of us "old timers" and it is always fun to catch up with each other and share some laughs over a glass of wine or Amaretto Slush. This year, I made a point to also go for a walk by myself, every morning. The gun club is somewhat off the beaten path and is surrounded by wooded and winding lanes.

With my iPod set to some walking music and my earphones muffling the sounds of shot guns going off, I would head out in the coolness of the new morning.
Breathing in the fresh air and feeling the warming sun on my back, it felt good to stretch the legs, clear the mind of nighttime fuzziness and empty cluttered thoughts.

Along the way, there were some discoveries...fresh deer prints in the sandy shoulder of the uneven road...a cast off winter stocking cap, even a few drink containers someone thoughtlessly tossed from a passing car window. I also found inspiration and things that brought a smile...little curving paths that led to someone's hidden cottage...

A simple mailbox that has been personalized with a painted northwoods theme...

Someone offers free housing for little feathered visitors...bed and breakfast?

And a rustic driveway marker - company is probably told to look for the old pressed back chair to know they have arrived at the right turn...

As I head back to gun club, my feet feel lighter, the heartbeat has settled down and the mind & soul have been rejuvenated - refreshed and renewed...all from a simple walk along a country lane.

Wishing each of you days of rejuvenation and don't forget to visit all the other "R" postings over at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.

Pat

"Q" Is For Quilter

2011-08-10T17:56:00.000-05:00

A quilter (n.) is defined as someone who "....makes a coverlet or blanket of two layers of fabric with a layer of cotton, wool, feathers or down in between; all stitched firmly together, usually in a decorative crisscross design."

(Middle English - quilte, from Anglo-Norman and from Latin - culcita = mattress)
Mr. Outback defines a quilter as someone who is typically covered with stray threads, always has some type of piecing next to their favorite chair, walks around muttering words like, "stash", "road trip", "fat quarter", or "blankety blank bias edges"....He wonders how a person can start a brand new project when there are others still in the works...
I define a quilter as someone who is hopelessly in love with everything that defines a quilt.
In 1982, a friend of mine called me one day and asked if I would be interested in signing up for a Beginning Patchwork Class at our local quilt shop (LQS). Being budget wise, I said "How much does it cost?"
$5.00 for a 3 week session. Sure, sign me up...my interests back then revolved around needlepoint, macrame and knitting. What could be so difficult about cutting up some fabric and sewing them back together?
A gazillion dollars & trillions of cut pieces later...quilting is such a part of my life, I cannot imagine a day without it. Most of my precious friendships have been formed by this passion. We all speak the same language.
Somewhere is the original pillow that was pieced during that Beginning class...it is packed away in a box. I do remember the pattern though - "Clay's Choice." Done in bright reds and a solid white background with a ruffle, it was very elementary but I stressed over that for weeks.
We still use the first full size bed quilt I made.

It has been relegated to the travel trailer and has provided warmth on numerous chilly nights when on the road. It is a sampler quilt and was pieced during an extended Sampler Quilt Class at the same LQS. In the '80's fabric choices were limited. You usually chose a main fabric, an accent and the background. The ubiquitous threesome. My blue border is even a cotton/polyester blend (gasp!) That would be a major malfunction now as 100% quality cotton is the only choice. Despite the drawbacks, the quilt is entirely handquilted and I can no longer achieve small, even stitches. I recall it taking about 2 years to quilt (not a speed demon, am I!)
The blocks look so large to my eyes now - especially compared to the nine patch quilt that appears above in my blog header...each 9 patch unit finishes to 1 1/2" and there are well over 1000 blocks in the quilt.

As we grow in our "passion," tastes are bound to change. These days, I am trying to learn applique. I read somewhere that historically, making appliqued quilts often comes in one's later years...the children are grown and on their own. There is time to devote to the more intricate projects. Choosing colors is quite different than piecing a quilt. Techniques are totally different and the quilter tends to linger over each block savoring the process.

This is the latest completed applique block in my Beyond the Cherry Tree Quilt.

And a peek at one that close to being finished.

As I stitch, the bond of all the other quilters now and in the past is strongly felt. We are a sisterhood (but with many gifted male counterparts!) and I hope that in years to come...someone will look upon my humble work and feel that same connection...

"When this you see...remember me..."


A signed block from an 1840's quilt

Be sure to hop over to Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday "Q" postings.

Have a good rest of the week and come back soon! Your comments are always a treasure.

Pat

Perfect Pea Pods

2011-08-03T16:47:00.000-05:00

Our shelling peas are finally ready for harvesting. Despite the very cold start to our growing season and now day after day of hot, humid weather...this is what I was able to gather from an 8 foot row of Estancia peas (Cook's Garden). Not a lot, but they sure taste good. While shelling, I was struck by how uniform these little guys were. So neat and orderly - shoulder to shoulder...

Like two peas in a pod...(or more!) That phrase got me to thinking. Where did that come from? So off to www.phrases.org.uk to do a little research.
Actually the phrase "like two peas in a pod" is "quite old and versions of it date from the 16th Century...John Lyly used the phrase in Euphues and His England, 1580:
"Wherin I am not unlike unto the unskilfull Painter who having drawen the Twinnes of Hippocrates, (who wer as lyke as one pease is to an other..")
The word Pease was used as the singular form throughout Tudor England. The word Pea came into use in the 17th century, with the plural form being Peas.
And that is what I learned today! Be sure to visit all the other "P" postings at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday...

Have a great weekend - we are off to Michigan's Upper Peninsula for a few days - time for a mini vacation.

Mind your P's and Q's everyone! I have done my "P's" and plan on a weekend of "Q" for quilting...will share the results in the next post.

Pat

The 2:00 A.M. Blogger

2011-07-30T03:31:00.000-05:00

Sleep experts state that if a person cannot fall asleep after an hour or so, it is best to arise from the sleepless bed and read, pursue a favorite hobby or take a walk...at 2:25 in the morning, my love of reading has temporarily faded and quilting doesn't seem to hold my attention. I could venture out into the garden in bare feet and shorty pj's but living out in the country makes for a very dark environment and who knows what kind of furry critters one might encounter.
Besides my mind is in a whirl and that is what has prevented me from drifting peacefully off for the last two hours.
At first, I mentally planned the next morning's activities...picking the blueberries and peas that should have been done the previous night. Then thoughts moved to what a busy week it has been - constantly on the go each day which no doubt has led to this sleepless night. A feeling of being worn out and overtired prevails. Perhaps if I thought about a quilt? There is a beautiful vintage look red chintz in my sewing room that calls to me - what a fabulous border it will make...should I splurge and order that Di Ford Applique pattern I covet from Australia? Then I remember the present projects that are in the works and more gifts yet to made.
I toss and turn - the pillows get fluffed and the sheet and blanket rearranged...thoughts float to my parents and worries there and of friends near and far who face serious health issues. Mr. Outback sleeps blissfully unawares of my turmoil...our three shelties softly snore and a small window fan pulls in the cool night air.
The next thought that enters my racing mind was the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back...the debacle that is going on in Congress as a group of elected officials can't reach any agreement on how to pull this country back from the brink - are we headed to the next level of economic meltdown? Why don't they grow up and play nice with each other and will I get a Social Security check in August? The pillows get fluffed again and the tossing and turning continue.
This is ridiculous, I tell myself...obviously sleep will not be visiting anytime soon so slip downstairs, start blogging and see if anyone else is awake?? Kind of doubt it - this has got to be the loneliest time of the night. That old Frank Sinatra song comes to mind..."In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning..."
Sleeping pills are not something I would seek out...perhaps seeing what other bloggers are up to?
Wow! Pomona over at Little Cottage Comforts has an amazing giveaway going on...be sure to check it out!

And I just noticed she also runs a sweet little bed and breakfast in England...if I had the where-with-all I would hop over there in a heartbeat...I bet sleep would arrive softly nestled into one her delightfully decorated rooms and the anticipation of a fresh scone and tea in the morning ...what a lovely thought...I will try to keep that image as I climb the stairs and once again fluff the pillows and hopefully at long last drift off to sleep.

Pat

I will probably look like this in the morning...

Sensory Overload...Part Three

2011-07-27T21:42:00.000-05:00

Lot's of "O's" for this Alphabe-Thursday entry...if you missed the first two parts of the garden tour, check out the previous two posts.

Our final stop of the day long garden tour was in Reedsville, Wisconsin at Solaris Farms. Our guide warned us in advance to be prepared - "you will feel as though you died and went to heaven." And so it was...

There were collective intakes of breath as we pulled along side of the gardens and turned into the drive. Timing was perfect on this day as the daylilies and oriental/orienpet/asiatics were all in bloom.

We were briefed on how the rows of plants were marked and how to fill out the order form on the clip board we were given. Goodness sakes...make it easy - just give me 3 of everything! (Click on each photo to enlarge)

Chris & I buzzed around the rows, oohing and ahhing and quickly writing down our heart's desire...then a moment of sanity hit...how much do these plants cost? Might be a good idea to check the price list...oh my - that daylily is $20.00...a little steep for our budgets...did you know you can buy daylilies that cost $200.00 a piece! Best to know that before you tell that young college boy to start digging!

However, we had no problem finding equally stunning blossoms priced from $6.00 to $11.00 each...

Holland Beauty Lily - I definitely had to bring that home with me...

it is stunning!

And a Dutch Red...

And how about that Satisfaction...

So many others - to dream about over the winter months and perhaps plan a return trip next year...

Icing on the cake - when I returned home, in my very own little garden - waiting for me...the first bloom of my Lemon Meringue oriental lily...

- oh the heavenly fragrance...I can hardly wait to introduce it to my new lily friends...

Don't forget to drop by all the other "O" posts over at Miss Jenny's

Have an Outstanding Summer Weekend!

Pat

Sensory Overload...Part Two

2011-07-26T17:17:00.000-05:00

Our second garden stop of the day was about a two hour ride from Scandinavia to a town called Kiel, Wisconsin. Again, we stopped along a lovely country lane and parked the tour bus. We had arrived at Pondside Gardens.

Chris - walking down the garden path towards the pond.

By this time it was close to noon and the sun had risen high in the sky with soaring temperatures greeting us. It was hot, hot, hot and with super humid air...we seriously considered wading into this inviting fountain in the center of the pond.

These gardens are located on approximately 13 acres on the pond side of the property and 14 acres on the house and hostas side.
Entering through the arch of the Display gardens, the first of the 500 varieties of hostas invited us to linger and explore.

With the rolling terrain, it was a good thing we all had on comfortable walking shoes...this pair of work boots were all ready occupied by an arrangement of greenery.

A nearby decorative bench with a welcoming engraving invited us to sit a spell and take it all in, but there was much to see and decide on and our catered lunch awaited us!

Decisions, decisions, how does one choose? Row after row just calling out for our attention...

We were told that if we spied something that wasn't in a pot, they would go and dig up the exact plant we pointed to and it could go home with us...how accommodating! Remembering our own property has somewhat limited shaded areas, I could only justify two plants...Orange Marmalade and June - both with multi-colored green leaves ranging from cream to blue green.
...And I knew the 3rd stop was where my gardening heart would speed up - so plan to come along as we head to Solaris Farms - specializing in hundreds of daylilies and oh-be-still-my-heart oriental/orienpet lilies...
See you on Thursday, July 28th!

Pat

Sensory Overload...Part One

2011-07-24T17:46:00.000-05:00

If there is one thing a gardener likes to do other than actual gardening, is visit other gardens. You can walk leisurely through winding paths, ask questions and learn and come away inspired...all without the need of work gloves or a shovel. Put 35+ gardeners on a bus headed to three unique gardens in Southeastern Wisconsin and you have the makings of a truly enjoyable day. Rather than stick you with tons of photos all at once, there will be 2 more postings for the remaining two gardens. Pondside Gardens on July 26th and Solaris Gardens on July 28th. I hope you will plan to follow along as we tour.

Our first stop was way out in the country and the address falls under the Township of Scandinavia (of Iola-Scandinavia Antique Auto Show fame). Labisch Gardens is a privately owned garden which has been created by a very diligent retired couple who moved out of Milwaukee years ago seeking a quiet life. When our big chartered bus pulled up to the driveway entrance on the narrow country lane, I wonder if they were rethinking what "quiet" meant! They have planted over 350 different varieties of hostas, daylilies and perennials on their shaded hillside property. Mr. Labisch states that it all started with a wish from his wife, "for just one little flower bed, dear."

I hope you enjoy your visit!


A necessary country home item - or the world's biggest watermelon?

The Labisch's have followed an Angels and Fairies theme throughout the garden - pieces of garden art are tucked everywhere and sometimes are nestled amongst all the hostas, which range in size from diminutive to giant. Don't you love the texture on these leaves?

In addition to the fairies and angels, the walkways are shared with garden friendly pooches or other critters...

Of course, hummingbirds are always welcomed!

And who wouldn't want to linger when presented with such beautiful blooms...

This is a variety of begonia - the entire display must have been 45" across - just spectacular. I took a close up so that you could see the shape of this unusual variety.

After being treated to baked scones and our choice of coffee, ice water or lemondade, we boarded the bus for our next stop. As we were leaving, these two very sweet little faces appeared at the window - aren't they adorable little yorkies!!

Come back soon and join us for a visit to our 2nd garden...Pondside Gardens in Kiel, Wisconsin...can you believe - over 500 hostas!! And they sell them!!

See you on July 26th!

Pat

Garden Moments...

2011-07-22T19:47:00.000-05:00

Finally, we have had a very brief break in our hot weather...55 degrees this morning greeted us and I headed out to the gardens for a bit of tidying up. This past week has brought a lot of growth and I discovered tiny tomatoes, summer squashes and cucumbers all being formed. My wilted gardening spirits improved tremendously when I spied this taking place...

We have 4 blueberry bushes and I will be picking in a few days...if our bears don't sneak in during the dark of night! They are definitely near by...

And one of my favorite places to be is the little herb garden in the morning when the oils are so intense on the leaves...a great time to bring out the herb basket and gather parsley, sage and thyme to dry. What? You ask - No rosemary? I don't dry that - preferring it freshly trimmed.

Something new in the garden this summer...Honey Melon Sage. A pretty herb with sweet smelling leaves and neat little tubular red flowers.

Tomorrow I will be taking a "gardener's busman's holiday" - along with a friend that I don't get to spend much time with; we are off for the day on a tour of 3 gardens in Southeastern Wisconsin. Will be taking the camera along so hope to share our adventure with you.

All for now...it will seem strange to be taking a break from quilting and being in my own play yard...but I anticipate returning with lots of inspiration!

Have a great weekend and stay tuned for a Quick Summer Giveaway to be announced soon!

Pat

Keeping My Cool...

2011-07-18T22:36:00.000-05:00

When we moved from Atlanta to Wisconsin in 1974, the hot, humid summers were left behind...or so we thought. Put any kind of label on it that you want...but this July in the Northwoods is reminding us of a classic Southern Summer. It's sticky, humid, stormy, & hot! Days of mid 70's, endless blue skies and dry air are distant memories...

We had a storm move through last night that brought winds and a much needed rain but no relief from the blanket of warmth that covers every thing. The row of lettuces which are finally looking decent are now under a canopy in hopes of preventing bolting.

In the light of day, we found apples on the ground from whipped tree branches, tomatoes bent over and needing to be secured again and herbs and flowers that had a definite southern lean to them because of strong north winds. Out into the sauna I ventured first thing this morning to do inspection and clean up...and quickly back in to the comfort of the A/C (our builder scoffed at our request for central air...he said log homes retain their warmth in winter and coolness in summer...we stuck by our decision and have never regretted it a second.) The air is so heavy that our glasses fog up when stepping outside.

So with predictions of continued hot weather this week, I made a list of "Cool Activities." A lot of sewing is first and foremost! Other things can come later...more organizing in the basement, shampooing carpet and ugh...ironing.

Right now, the main part of a wedding gift is pieced and I need to decide on borders...lots of blue batiks and a batik background that looks like raindrops...just quick to piece 6" nine patch blocks.

Will show you the whole top when the borders are on.

Two recent Civil War blocks from Barbara Brackman have brought me up to date again. They need trimming, but wanted to share them with you.

Railroad Crossing

Next Door Neighbor

And two little bags which sewed up very quickly today. One for me and one for a friend...

A little pattern from Little Scraps - This and That.

Thought they were a cute size for when you don't want to carry a large purse around. And the random little pleats add interest. I finally am able to say something is finished! Although I still need to sew buttons on the front...

That's about it at Taylorsoutback for now. While I miss not being outside working in the gardens and enjoying the fresh air, it is a matter of being comfortable, Keeping My Cool...

With an Amaretto Slush...

Hope you have a Comfortably Cool week - no matter where you are!

Pat

"M" Is For Mornings

2011-07-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

Oh dear! I almost Missed class... Normally, mornings are my favorite part of the day...long ago in my early days of gardening, you could find me out in the garden at 6:30 a.m. enjoying the cool freshness of a new day. There would always be a listening ear for that first little sound from our tiny son when he woke...the garden was very close to the house and in the quiet of the morning, it was easy to know when he was awake.

Now, mornings come at a slower pace as preparations are made to join the rest of the waking world. A fresh cup of coffee along with the morning paper and checking the iPod allow the brain cells to start moving again.

Sometimes if a migraine has taken hold (and that is an "M" word I choose to ignore for now) one of my happy pills is in order to allow the rest of the day to belong to me.

Mornings offer up my favorite meal too - breakfast...the dictionary tells us the word "breakfast" is Middle English - from - brekfast - breken meaning to break + faste - a fast - from Old Norse fasta - to fast. On our own weekends, Mr. Outback is the breakfast chef and as I step out of the shower, the fragrance of bacon or something with cinnamon often makes it way up the stairs...anticipation of a meal to be enjoyed leisurely. Our three shelties know a precious treat will be theirs if they are patient.

In the winter months, a fire in the fireplace will be warming the house and on a summer day, the doors are open to the deck and fresh air can flow in. The best times are when company comes to share that first meal of the day...

I would like to share these quotes I found on Quote Garden.

"The older generation thought nothing of getting up at five every morning and the younger generation doesn't think much of it either"
John J. Welsh

"If people were meant to pop out of bed in the morning, we would all live in toasters."
Attributed to Jim Davis

"There is no snooze button on a cat or dog who wants breakfast."
unknown

"I have a "carpe diem" mug and truthfully at six in the morning, the words to not make me want to seize the day. They make me want to slap a dead poet."
Joanne Sherman

And, finally...

"I used to love night best, but the older I get the more treasures and hope and joy I find in the mornings."
Terri Guillemets

Wishing each of you happy mornings! Be sure to check out the other "M" postings over at Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday.

Pat

It's All About Cherries...

2011-07-10T14:13:00.000-05:00

July - we have arrived in mid-summer. The Summer Solstice has come and gone and the days, though warm and humid, begin their inevitable journey.....minute by minute, the hours of daylight will grow shorter and...

Oh! Let's not think about that... distant memories of cold, brittle days and the sound of snow crunching under our boots are not for right now.

Ice cream cones that dribble down the tiny t-shirts of toddlers, cookouts and cold drinks on the deck of a summer's evening...and...
Fresh berries and fresh cherries and all the wonderful fruits of summer are arriving.

Do you read Victoria magazine? Their recipes are incredible and I want to try out this dessert when I host my applique stitching group this month. Doesn't it look yummy? Cherries and peaches in Amaretto Parfait...(July/August issue)

My love of cherries goes back a long ways...just yesterday, my Dad & I were recalling Grammy's house in West Virginia. It has been my favorite house forever. Granddaddy Lloyd built it for his new bride shortly after they were married in 1907.

From the stone-lined cellar to the fabulous attic, I knew every nook and cranny and can still see the chestnut paneling and pocket doors. Rows of neatly stored canning jars filled the cellar. Grammy's preserved cherries came from the many cherry trees in their backyard. The trees were Granddaddy's pride and joy & one of his best trees was the Black Tartarian which produced very sweet, extremely dark cherries.

( Hmmm...wonder if that variety would grow in our own yard?) Grammy was famous for her cherry pies and Granddaddy made cherry wine to be sipped in moderation.
Apparently some of the young neighbor boys also enjoyed these fruits and sneaked into the back yard. On one occasion, they even arrived with baskets to haul away the samples.
The house had 4 levels and along the back ran two large porches with the 2nd level porch being accessible by doors from 2 bedrooms. Granddaddy decided to lie in wait with a bucket of water - when the young thieves showed up to gather cherries they received an unexpected dousing and fled the scene. He was such a quiet, loving Grandpa but you didn't mess with his cherry trees!

The wonderful memories of both my Grandparents were part of the reason I began appliqueing Beyond the Cherry Tree blocks. (Check out our group's progress...stunning work!) These are the blocks completed so far...

I was feeling somewhat bogged down and not making progress as I am quite slow. When I saw the 12 blocks laid out it renewed my intentions to keep going...this is a peek at #13.

And to wrap up today's posting - a few years ago I made this little quilt and pillow from a kit called A Day In Door County. Can you see the little cherry print?

Door County is often called The Cape Cod of the Midwest and is known for its abundant orchards which include apples and cherries. We have not been there in a long time. A return is overdue...
Well, that is about it from Taylorsoutback for now...wishing each of you a wonderful week ahead and time to enjoy all the fruits of summer.

Pat
P.S. - I will let you know how the Cherry & Peach Amaretto Parfait turns out!

"L" Is For Lazy Days...

2011-07-06T15:14:00.000-05:00

Back in class with Jenny Matlock for Alphabe-Thursday (summer school isn't bad at all!) This week the letter is "L." And that means Lazy Days for me...The gardens are basically on their own now...watering when no rain arrives, weeds are kept at bay and harvests are Lazy now...only fresh green onions and Lettuces are producing. Everything else is still very much in its early growing stages. This is the quiet time of summer - when an hour or so can be spent on the deck with some stitching or a book and a tall glass of Lemonade - rare moments but something to be treasured.

When day time temperatures grow too warm (anything above 76!) there is always the sewing room to retreat to. This is a photo of all the Barbara Brackman Civil War blocks that have been completed so far.

We are well over half way through this project and before the next go round, these blocks had to be removed from my design wall to make room for the new ones and other projects. And these two are the latest - #'s 26 and 27.

I will have to think about sashing for this project and what will look best with all the chocolate browns and blues to make sure they are happy together.

Are you enjoying Luscious fresh strawberries? This is berry time in Wisconsin and something to be savored as long as the brief season lasts.

I will wrap up this "L" posting for now...have to get ready to join my quilt history study group for Lunch...we are the "Liberty Ladies."

If you get a chance, please visit my 2 previous posts also - where we visited the Leigh-Yawkey Woodson Museum. Wishing each of you a Lazy weekend with time to wander over by Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday and visit all the other "L" postings.

Lazily lingering,
Pat

Voices From the Past...

2011-07-04T14:34:00.000-05:00

It had been 43 years since they last saw each other...it is hard to imagine what it was like for them so long ago. Both in their early 20's, fresh out of Army Aviation School and wearing new silver wings that indicated they were qualified to fly a helicopter. Sent far away from family and home, they encountered heat, humidity, monsoons and an enemy that remained invisible a good part of the time. Villages and coastal areas with names like Ninh Hoa, Tuy Hoa, & Nha Trang and meeting people who spoke a different language than English...such a different world compared to where and how they had both grown up in. Both men returned home safely. One served a 2nd tour with different names...Da Nang, Camp Evans, DMZ. One returned to settle in the South where he had been born and the other eventually moved to the Upper Mid-West. Careers continued on, families were raised, retirement and health issues became a way of life.

It is now the Summer of 2011 and silver wings, mementoes and old photographs are displayed and stored on shelves. Instead of flight suits, blue jeans and t-shirts are the dress of the day. Time has taken on a different meaning from those youthful days. Packing up an RV and heading out on the road becomes a reality instead of "someday." Travel can now be in which ever direction the wind blows - whereever old friends reside and have room to park a motorhome.
And that is how we spent this past week - welcoming Bill and Susan to our neck of the woods. Once again, the names of villages were spoken of, old buddies recalled and missions flown. It seemed like many sentences started with..."were you there when..." or "do you remember when..." or "whatever happened to..." echoing across the years.

When they weren't comparing notes on the last 4 decades, we spent some time showing them Northern Wisconsin and being holiday tourists. After viewing the beautiful glass works and other art exhibitions at Leigh-Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, we strolled around the peaceful grounds outside.

Susan, relaxing in the shade back at the house

A day spent in Minocqua served up tempting little stores...
We passed up most of the trinket shops but couldn't resist the lure of handmade candies...seems like all four of us have a sweet tooth.

Bill - trying to decide!!!

And there were quiet little corners with summer plantings...

Time together went quickly and points West awaited our friends. Bill has taken a welcomed break from extensive chemo (he states he is a Life Member of the Agent Orange Club) and this summer they want to just enjoy life.

They hope to make it to Glacier National Park...and said we should go along! Maybe next year as it is on my Bucket List. Hugs and promises to not wait another 43 years...and those voices from our past have become a very nice part of our friendship circle.

Pat

Happy Birthday, America!

A Tisket...A Tasket

2011-06-30T20:49:00.000-05:00

Come along and see some beautiful baskets...

It has been a busy week with out of town company - more about that in the next posting. One of the things we did was take our friends to the Leigh-Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. It is probably most famous for its Birds In Art. But another collection always draws visitors who are entranced with the forms and colors. So, let's take a look together...I hope you enjoy!

These exquisite pieces of glasswork are on permanent display at the Museum.

I will let the photos take you along...click on each one to enlarge!

One of Dale Chihuly's pieces is part of the collection

I will be back soon with more images from our week.

Pat - And wishing all the good people of Canada a Happy Canada Day!!!

Sewing Needle vs. Trowel...

2011-06-20T16:10:00.000-05:00

Looking back over my recent posts, it has been a long time since anything substantially "quilty" has been shared. Probably because garden trowels, seed packets and work gloves have been a major part of each day.

It has also been ages since any finished quilt has been shared and sad to say, it is going to be a while before that happens. But today, allow me a break from the gardens and let's talk quilting. While visiting other blogs, I have come down with a case of "finish envy." Judy over at Shade Tree Quilting has been setting land-speed records with her completed quilts and Kathy at Inspired By Antique Quilts - well - I don't think she ever sleeps and is always sharing her newest creations. Be sure to visit some of the other quilty blogs on my sidebar to the right...have added a few more lately, mostly applique, Civil War, reproduction quilt lovers, like myself.

So what has been going on in the sewing room...mostly a mess! But I pledged a while back to Showing the Process. Making slow progress on my Canadian Rose Summer quilt (and here it is mid June- was supposed to be on our bed by now!)


Looks washed out - hard to photograph.

Lots of 1/2 square triangles being made - and these are finished to 2 3/8" so have to piece them the old fashioned way - 2 triangles at a time and just keep feeding them through chain-piecing. About 192 of this particular size.

Also have started strip piecing my 1" reds & greens with the shirting background - using this stack of reds and greens

and need a whole bunch of little nine-patch variations to make this quilt...they will finish to 1 1/2".

From left to right #1 - need 288/ #2 - need 214/#3 need 191
Only need to make 287/213/190 more...and since I have all the other shirting squares and rectangles cut - it won't take long at all...in my dreams...

And still keeping up with Barbara Brackman's Civil War Quilt weekly blocks.
These are from the last 2 weeks - # 24 & #25.

And in the quiet evening hours, I continue to do applique on the Beyond the Cherry Tree blocks...so focused on this project - it is one of those that has "taken on a life of it's own." Another block has been completed (still undecided about the embroidered stems - have done half way around and will sit on the rest for awhile) and I am prepping the next one - I dream of cherries constantly!

This is my favorite light box to use for transferring patterns - it is an old paper testing box from Weyerhaeuser. They used to do quality control testing on new paper runs and when it became obsolete they were literally getting ready to throw it out...Mr. Outback rescued it and put it on top of an old desk in our basement. It weighs a ton and is huge...I love it!!

I will close for today with something my friend, Connie, made for me...isn't this the cutest tea towel? Love the watering can, love the colors and love the ruffle! Anyone even thinking of using it to dry dishes in this house is in big trouble...

Thanks so much for dropping by today and sharing this little bit of quilting time with me. I so enjoy your company! Have a great week and keep those creative hands busy...

Pat

PS - Our Mr. Bear dropped by a few days ago - he says "howdy."


The bluebird house is about 5 feet from ground level. Mr. Bear is a nice size.

"I" Is For Instantly!

2011-06-15T19:22:00.000-05:00

We live in a world where so much is available "instantly" - we can send a message, drink instant coffee (though why would someone want to?), fix instant oatmeal, buy anything online, or even break someone's heart in an instant with one wrong word.

Today's post for Miss Jenny's Alphabe-Thursday is for the letter "I."

This arrived in the mail late last week and caught my eye Instantly!

A product Guaranteed to make you look younger Instantly. Just apply to your wrinkles and they Instantly disappear...amazing! However, the fine print on the package reveals - it takes more like 90 seconds to work its magic. At 67, 90 seconds can be significant. After all, every moment counts when the clock is ticking...

Another dilemma presents itself...do you see the size of the trial package they include?

Now I have to ask myself...how far will that little packet go? Rather than making Wrinkles (plural) disappear, I would have to choose exactly which wrinkle I want to vanish...I mean I have a number of them as befitting someone my age. Each one has a definite place and gives me character. Whichever one I choose to vanish, will it throw my whole alignment out? I mean they are quite well balanced, thank you. And everyone has been earned - well earned. I deserve them.
While on a shopping expedition earlier today, I was walking through the cosmetic department of a major department store. What caught my eye was a huge display showing neatly boxed tubes of some sort of cream...The advertising sign would bring anyone to a halt..."De-Aging Solution." When I continued on and met with my stitching group, my friends were quite intrigued and one of the ladies asked if we could get it in large quantities, like Sheep Dip. We wondered if it was also a product that produced results Instantly.

For now I will keep the wrinkles and pass on the De-Aging Solution and concentrate on something else that might be done Instantly...like snapping my fingers and the entire house is clean and orderly. I'll be looking for a flyer in the mail that tells me how to do that.

Be sure to stop by all the other "I" posts over Alphabe-Thursday.

Sunday - A Day of Rest?

2011-06-12T21:47:00.000-05:00

How do you take your Sundays? The traditional way - Church and family dinners together? Lingering over a leisurely breakfast and an extra cup of coffee along with a thick newspaper filled with ads and funnies? I was brought up to think Sunday was meant to be a day of rest. My Mom has told me that when she was growing up in a large family on the farm, Grandpa would not even permit embroidery work on Sunday's - it was the Lord's Day and should be observed as such. But this is the 21st Century and we have left behind many of the old traditions.

On this particular Sunday, my Grandpa would have no doubt given me a stern look and perhaps a little lecture as I stood in front of him with downcast eyes and a dripping paint brush in my hand. He would not have been interested in my excuse that we live in Wisconsin where summers consist of basically 2 months - 3 if we are lucky. June can be tricky in this part of the world...this past week is a perfect example. We started out last Monday with temperatures well into the upper 80's and low 90's. Late in the week, we dropped to 50 degrees...a difference of 40 degrees from the previous day. The 1 1/2 yards of mulch we hauled in the utility trailer sat until cool weather arrived and on Thursday, wearing jeans and a heavy sweatshirt, I proceeded to distribute said 1 1/2 yards throughout the front garden. Crossed that off my to do list...and now we have arrived at the weekend, which includes Sunday. Off in the distance on the other side of the pond, Mr. Outback did some repair work on our bridge. You can barely see him through all the new shore growth (a nicer sounding phrase than "weeds.")

So with Time being of the essence and with Grandpa's disapproval from above, I hauled out the painting equipment and the ladder.

I must admit to a sense of accomplishment (coupled with some guilt, however)...look how nice the North wall of my potting shed looks...

The log siding was in dire need of refreshing and I even managed to start on the porch railings. It was a beautiful day to be outside - the little windows in the shed were open and the Public Radio Sunday Morning Classics could be heard coming from the radio inside .....painting while listening to Mozart or the flowing sounds of Ralph Vaughn Williams Symphony #5 in D Major is good for the soul. Painting is also like gardening or quilting to me...you can let your mind wander, reflect, organize or just dream while staying on task.

Of course, my faithful assistance stayed nearby to lend a helping ~~paw~~ hand...

And I could keep a close eye on the pots of baby herbs in the "nursery."

So, I ask you - how can Sunday be a total day of rest when we are blessed with beautiful weather, summer goes much too swiftly and the list of things to paint is growing...
Last summer the rocking chairs were done in neon green and the year before that, the Adirondack chair was covered in lavender paint...that old bench could sure use some brightening up, don't you agree? Hmmm...what color....?

Have a restful week and enjoy the blessings of each day.

Pat

"H" Is For High Flight...

2011-06-08T16:45:00.000-05:00

Dear Miss Jenny - I have been so naughty missing your last 3 classes. Will you accept my excuse slip that life has been very hectic? So much so, that I am pulling from my old archives to participate in this weeks Alphabe-Thursday for the letter "H".

For my regular readers, this is a repeat of a most glorious day for me personally and for visitors here for the first time, I hope you enjoy taking this incredible High Flight with me.

A Footprint in Time…

September 3, 2010 by taylorsoutback

Do you have a Bucket List? I think everyone reaches a point in their life where they step back, assess where they have been and done and what they would like to do in the future. A while back I created my own little Bucket List (which can be a lot of fun to do, if you haven’t tried it!) Two of the listed items were #1 – return to Alaska and #2 – fly in a float plane and land on a remote lake. Since this is being written in Alaska, that takes care of #1. Today, #2 was realized.
Rust’s Air, based at Lake Hood, Anchorage was my takeoff point. With 9 of us onboard, our pilot, Mark, headed North West and in about an hour, Mt. McKinley was in view. The tallest mountain (20,320 ft.) in North America, it also goes by the name of Denali, The Great One, or The High One. She answers to no one and has lured many to her summit or the National Park farther to the North.
We had been told that depending on weather conditions, we would circle Denali, fly over the Ruth Glacier and if possible, land on a remote glacial lake. It sounded pretty neat to me. I was not prepared for just how close we would get to this jaw dropping creation.
The sky was a deep crystal blue and our pilot informed us that this day was 1 in 100 for clear viewing. He flew us in and around the peaks with great confidence and ability as all the cameras and camcorders clicked and whirred. First the passengers on the right side had an unobstructed view and then he would gracefully bank the plane for everyone on the left. I was thrilled with the proximity as we viewed the surrounding areas – glaciers, rocky peaks, below, among and above the cloud layers…it was all so grand. At some point, I began to wonder where the remote lake landing would be…I figured we would head back towards Anchorage and find a little area amongst the spindly black spruce trees that are so prevalent at the lower levels. But as we began to drop down lower near the Ruth Glacier area and the Great Gorge…the engine slowed and we could tell Mark was preparing to come in for a landing…our “remote glacial lake” was indeed just that – high in the mountains in the carved out bowl left by a long ago glacier. The milky grey blue water was like glass as we touched down and everyone on board was grinning from ear to ear. We taxied to the rocky shoreline and were able to get out and walk around -
Each of us just stood for while, trying to take in the total isolation and other worldly feel – and the complete and utter silence.
My own insignificant footprint will disappear with the next storm that moves through, but the memory of stepping onto that shoreline is imprinted in my heart forever.

What an incredible journey....

Patchwork Days....continued

2011-06-05T21:29:00.000-05:00

"Then followed that beautiful season - Summer...
Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light;
And the landscape lay as if newly created in all the
Freshness of childhood..."
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

What a difference one week can make...we have traveled from late Spring to precious days of early Summer as only June can provide.
The air is not only filled with a "dreamy and magical light," but when the evening is still, the scent of lilacs drifts in through the open French doors.


Beauty of Moscow lilacs against a dazzling blue sky

Next to my stitching chair sits a tiny crystal vase that holds freshly gathered lily-of-the-valley.

A bed of these dainties greets visitors as they approach our front porch. They might also be welcomed by one of our many hummers.

Yes, summer is definitely here - at long last.Long days in the gardens have produced raised beds filled with newly planted seeds and transplants longing to be out of their little fiber pots. My little bed of herbs is beginning to settle in after being totally uprooted and cleaned out. Photos coming soon...

Early morning hours and evenings after dinner dishes are cleared away have proven to be the most comfortable time to tackle outdoor work. Our afternoons are all ready beginning to be noticeably warmer and working in the hot sun is out for this heat-sensitive gardener. During the long winter months, while quilting, my mind goes to being in the gardens and now that a trowel is in my gloved hands, thoughts wandered back to quilting...I enjoy the best of both worlds! And when temperatures begin to soar (that is upper 70's here in Northern Wisconsin!) taking an afternoon break means heading to the sewing room...
These are the four latest Civil War Blocks from Barbara Brackman's weekly posting...I started to panic, knowing I was four weeks behind...things are back under control again!

The Underground Railroad block (top row - right side) was a timely one - during my recent visit to Elkhorn with my friend, Connie...we made a stop at the Milton House in Milton, Wisconsin. This is the only known safe house for slaves seeking freedom that actually held underground tunnels. We stopped by before Memorial Day which meant tours had to be scheduled in advance. During the summer months the buildings are open throughout the week. I would like to go back for one of their tours. (Great photographer that I am, the outdoor photos I took have mysteriously disappeared...)

The only other stitching I can show for now is Block #9 for my Beyond the Cherry Tree quilt. I can see the vase is a little "wonky" and may redo in the future...

A surprise arrived in the mail this week - from Teresa over at It's All Good. She won my needlebox giveaway a few months ago. I sure didn't expect this - a thank you gift! Isn't this little needle keeper so sweet and the accompanying handmade card is adorable! Thank you Teresa! You are a dear!

More things to share with you in the days ahead...in the meantime, I will leave you with one last fragrance to enjoy...

A Saturday morning Apple Pancake to fuel us up for a day in the garden...this started off our busy weekend and is one of Mr. Outback's favorite breakfast's to prepare.

Have a wonderful, fragrant filled week everyone!

Pat

Love those little "volunteers" that pop up unexpectedly!

Patchwork Days

2011-05-27T19:58:00.000-05:00

Tonight the setting sun has painted the sky with delicate pinks and blues. The pond is still and holds a reflection of the colors above. Surrounding pastures and woodlands are bathed in that shade of green that is so unique to the emerging Spring season...soft and misty with leaves not quite yet reaching their fullest and allowing the branches and bark to stand out. Not yet the deep greens and lushness of full summer...a chill lingers in the twilight reminding us that winter has only recently left. White trilliums carpet the nearby woods and yellow marsh marigolds wind their way along the sides of creeks and bogs.

Days at Taylorsoutback have been like a patchwork quilt...bits and pieces of many activities held together by what is hoped to be a strong, quality thread. Stress-filled doctor's appointments with my Mom as she goes from one test to the next trying to zero in on a recurring medical issue - all the while dealing with growing memory loss/personality changes. We have managed a much needed weekend away with family friends in Elkhorn, Wisconsin and some best friend time with Connie. More about that in the next post.

We were only home for 2 days from that road trip and then left again for Peoria, Illinois and Mr. Outback's annual skeet shoot. I have to laugh when thinking we didn't go anywhere ALL winter and in the last 3 weeks, have traveled along the same route to Janesville, Rockford and points south on 3 occasions!

While in Peoria, I met with another long-time friend, Eulonda, who was my partner when we opened our quilt shop back in '91. We headed to Peoria Heights and the Bernina dealership store - Sew Creative. Peggy, the owner, is one incredibly knowledgeable Bernina lady!

I wish she was closer to my home - I have been on a not so friendly basis with the BSR on my 440QE - let's say very frustrated. Peggy sat with us for 2 hours - both showing and letting us work with the machine. Peggy also did demo's on some of the new Bernina accessories and I ended up with a new sole plate for the walking foot...you get 2 sole plates with the foot - standard. This one is new. Can you see the extra guide near the middle?

Will be anxious to try it out when machine quilting as it appears to really do a nice job when stitching in the ditch and want to share my thoughts on how it works in the near future....stay tuned!

Do you like my new purple Grabaroos too?!!

So much more comfortable than the heavier gripper gloves I have been using.

The rest of our stay in Peoria was just simple relaxing and visiting with other skeet wives who were staying next to us in RV's. The days were not rushed; the mind could clear out the cobwebs and reorganize. I finished this...and would recommend...

And started this...if you love to garden and love history - this is fabulous!

And put the final stitches in Beyond the Cherry Tree Block #9

And took the first stitches in Block #10...photo soon...

And completed an overdue Friendship block...

And cut these 1" strips and stacks of squares and rectangles for my Settler's Trail. Loving the colors all ready! Anything with a shirting fabric has my attention!

Now we are back home for a while and my patchwork days are centered out in the gardens.Winter-bound muscles are calling for a Tylenol but it is so wonderful to be outside, opening up the potting shed, pulling out garden tools and playing in the dirt. We have waited sooooo long for this time...

More patchwork days to come...hopefully Blogger has resolved the issues of recent days and smoother postings can continue. I will try my best to catch up with each of your blogs too - have missed out on what everyone is up to!

Memorial Day weekend always seems to be more focused on the main kickoff for summer vacations and cookouts. Somehow, the original reason for observing this special day has been relegated to the back. Take time to remember what it is all about and display your flag in honor of all those who sacrificed their lives.

Pat

Back Soon....

2011-05-16T23:00:00.000-05:00

Things have gotten a little hectic at Taylorsoutback so will be taking a break - I won't be gone too long and sure don't want to miss out on all of your postings either!

I must apologize also for the lack of response to all the much appreciated comments recently. When Blogger went down last week, I lost all the previous comments in addition to our wireless router being hit during a power outage. Until we are up and running again on my old laptop, I don't have access to any info.

Have a wonderful week everyone and hope you will join me again soon.

In the meantime -

Happy Stitching......
Happy Gardening........
Happy Days.......................

Pat

"D" Is For Devotion = Dogs

2011-05-11T16:03:00.000-05:00

Back in 1990 we fell in love with shelties...
Sandy -

our first little girl - at 12 pounds, best mouser I have ever seen and who owned Mr. Outback - totally...

My Dutch -

the 2nd girl who would walk a mile out of her way to avoid a mud puddle and the one who defined sweetness and Devotion to me. I miss her everyday...

Now we have three -
Shy Sasha -

... her Devotion was placed with our son. When he moved to Alaska, I think he would have taken her along if there had been room in his car... at 15 she now only wants a few things in her life...fed promptly at 5:00 p.m., not to be bothered too much by the other two and to get her pain meds sandwiched between a little square of homemade bread and just a touch, please, of violet jelly.
Sasha is related to our Dutch and tugs at my heart too...
Molly -

at 7 years - our notoriously needy middle child who loves attention, chases airplanes and has a coat of fur to end all coats. She likes to be nearby when doing chores...like most shelties, she has opinions on everything!

Kelsie -

the junior girl in our trio at 5 years of age and the most affectionate who absolutely must be by her people at all times. In some ways she is a larger blue merle version of our Sandy.

Each of them are Devoted in their own unique way - the term "unconditional love" is always used when describing dogs but we must love them back unconditionally too. When that happens, the glow of Devotion in their eyes will steal your heart.They have all enriched our lives beyond measure.

Please be sure to visit all the other "D" posts for Alphabe-Thursday over at Jenny Matlock's. I will be away for a few days and promise to catch up with everyone on my return.
Have a wonderful weekend.

Pat

A Quilter's Happy Bus

2011-05-09T16:29:00.000-05:00

Somewhere between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., alarm clocks go off in 14 different households...up and out of the house, meet at 6:00 a.m. by Cedar Creek. Bring your lunch, spending money and comfortable shoes. The Liberty Ladies Annual Bus Trip is ready to go!

Can I sit next to you???

Last Thursday, 14 dedicated quilters and one very patient, tolerant, & flexible guy (husband to one of our Ladies) left North Central Wisconsin and headed for points south. We had an ambitious itinerary - 4 quilt shops. Since most shops prefer no photos be taken, visit their websites. I did get permission to capture friends clutching bolts of fabric though!
First stop - Rockford, Illinois...Quilter's General Store... a well appointed shop in a lovely old home which dates back to the late 1800's.

"Open" - a word to thrill a quilter's heart!

And a wallet!!!

Delectable Mountains - lovely quilting!

Bright, clean and so orderly, we were welcomed by a friendly staff who were ready to cut our chosen lovelies.

Surrounded by well kept barns and outbuildings, this shop has a very nice selection of reproduction fabrics - so dear to each of us in the quilt history study group. They also have hand dyed wools, kits and up to date books and patterns. A beautifully restored staircase railing was commented on by everyone...and a reminder sign to not try and carry bolts of fabric down the stairs by yourself! Even in the "necessary room" there were things to contemplate....

The 2nd shop on our list - Acorn Quilts also in Rockford...this is a fun place with 2 very cheery ladies who were very helpful.(Sorry - no exterior shots!) This shop was also very neatly kept - lots of fun samples and batiks, brights and a nice grouping of tone on tones. They had a completed quilt on display called "Ohmygosh!" which featured 1 1/2" finished 9 patch units and churn dash blocks...very similar in appearance to mine which appears in my blog header. Since I am about ready to start another tiny finished block quilt (1/2" pieces) (Settler's Trail from Primitive Gatherings) I passed on this one...but love the name!

By now we had worked up quite an appetite and everyone grabbed their lunches which had been packed the night before. Sometimes those fast food restaurants get a little weak-in-the-knees when they see 14 women approaching their front door. My home made salad really hit the spot too. Less guilt when eating chocolate too...

Tummy's full - bags of Dove chocolates, Midnight Milky Way and home baked cookies for dessert were shared with everyone and we were on our way again...

Next stop - Attic Quilts in Beloit...those poor folks have major road construction taking place on their front street which is closed off. Being intrepid quilters, we quickly found the rear entrance and in we went. Nothing could stop us - we were on a mission. A nice little shop - some good basics and florals.

Sandy and Faye - happy shoppers!

Now where did I put that extra credit card?

Our Happy Bus now turns eastward towards Janesville - the last stop in our busy day...Life's A Stitch - one of the Top 10 Quilt Shops in 2008.

This is another reproduction fabric lover's heaven...wonderful samples and fabrics to inspire. The shop is located in a 1863 farmhouse and with a newly expanded classroom with fabulous lighting, we lingered there for quite a while. I was still seeking additional reds and greens so had to stay focused...round and round the free standing fabric shelves I went, seeing new things at every turn and getting sidetracked by dear little bundles and packets of fabrics begging to go home.

Back on the bus - many shopping bags, totes and chatter - what did you buy? Oh I didn't see that...darn...should have bought more...pass the chocolate please...

Something to read along the way...

Our faithful driver headed North towards Madison...its a good thing the dinner hour was approaching or we might have talked him into swinging by Mill House Quilts in Waunakee or JJ Stitches in Sun Prairie....there was still a little room left in the back of the bus.

A very tasty meal at Outback Steakhouse finished up our fun day and we settled in for the 2 1/2 hour ride back home...

All ready, there was talk of where to go next time!

My little pile of purchases...

A great find - 50% off - 4 yards for a backing!

I just want to try this little Twister ruler - looks like fun

Do I need more pinks and browns...probably not but can't resist

New reds and greens for a new project

Love belonging to this group - we have a good time together and everyone shares the passion for quilting and the history behind it.
Until next time...wishing each of you a good week.

Pat

At least Janesville has signs of Spring!