January 28, 2012

Ok... I'm starving!!  The only bad thing about blogging...especially when I want to share some recipes that appear to be awesome... is.... IT MAKES ME SO HUNGRY!!  And... of course... I have to find those recipes that I cannot eat!!  HOWEVER, I decided to save them anyway... and once I loose all of this ugly FAT, I'm going to treat myself twice a month to a yummy recipe.  I'll have ONE portion (I hope ... only one!) and then Jack can have the rest... or I'll take some to my quilting group.  If I get them all fat and sassy... I'll look even skinnier!  HA... (just teasin' gals...)

So.. with that in mind... LOOK AT THESE POTATOES!!! (do you know how long it's been since I've had a yummy potato???  Since I went on this silly diet in September... ARG!!)  ((((sniffle))))  I love potatoes... especially fried, greasy ones!

They are nothing super special... just tossed with a little dill, garlic salt and olive oil and roasted on a cookie sheet in the oven.  But don't you just want to dive - FACE FIRST - into these bad boys!  mmm.... sour cream with them would be even better... maybe some butter... HELP ME!!!! HELP ME!!!!

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Then... there's something else I have been craving... FRITOS!  Now... I didn't eat them often.. but when you get the hungrys for them... nothing will fill the void.  There again.... it's the "grease" thing!  PLUS.. I found this yummy dip to go with them!!  Oh my.....

Mexicorn Dip - 2 cans Mexicorn, 1 can hot Rotel, 2 cups shredded cheddar, 6 green onions (sliced), + 1 cup each mayo and sour cream.

I must admit... I'm not a "hot" Rotel kind of girl... nor have I ever had Mexicorn (have you?) but I just thought the combination of these ingredients just couldn't be bad.  You got the diary and the vegetables... yum... yum... give me some!  It could be that eating it with the spatula might BE THE WAY TO GO!!  Ha!!!  I can't wait to give this a try.  Then... to be on the healthy side... I could spread some of this mixture on to a celery stick. .... then again.... nope... just can't do it.. it has to be the Fritos!!

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I've decided that I want to make adorable stuffed hearts... I've seen so many of them lately and they are calling my name.  I think once they are all finished... I shall put them in an antique wooden bowl I have... add a few sprigs of red berries and BOOM... a cute, cute display.  ((It's all about the presentation you know...)))

Look at these sweet heart ideas I have been collecting!

What do you think?????  Good idea???   I LOVE IT!!!  I'll add this idea to my TO DO list.  (((oh my gosh... you have no idea how long it is...)))  These are great hand projects to work on while I'm watching TV!  I just can't sit there and do nothing... can you?

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Hey... look at this cool idea to do with the disposable shower caps!  I thought this was so darn clever.  Why oh why can't I think of things like this?

Not to shabby huh????  Now... if you have exceptionally LARGE feet... you may have to use one shower cap per shoe... tee hee!!!

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Look at our funny photo for the day!

Hey... this is my bed... buddy!!!!!!

My husband said... 'are you sure they are discussing who's bed this is?'  Gosh.. men.. they just have s _ x on their minds all the time...  geeze louise...

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Then.. I found another great idea (that I didn't think of!).... Look how they've taken cork board and simply glued it to the inside of a cabinet door.  Hello... how simple is this!

I need one in my spice cabinet.  Every time I buy a new spice.. I need to put it on a list.    Since I'm in to 'cooking' more these days (don't ask my how that came about... have no clue) I find recipes with spices that I'm not sure I have. 

So.. what do I do... go to the spice cabinet and spend 15 minutes (or more) looking through all of them to see if the one I need is there. (I have no memory anymore...)

While searching... moving cans and jars around.. have you ever noticed how they fall all over the place?  Man.. I hate that.  I stack them up.. they fall again.... and again... until finally I simply give up and shut the cabinet door!  A spice list on the inside of the door will now solve this frustrating issue!  What a genius idea... (I do get them from time to time...)

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Okay.. now that I've solved the SPICE JAR issue... let's GET ORGANIZED!!

Let's talk measuring cups, measuring spoons... let's go through all of our 'baking items' and get them organized.  How many sets of measuring spoons do you own?  I must admit.. I think I have around 4 or 5... BUT.. they all seem to come apart and the one spoon you need... is not in  the set you've picked up.  Now you have to dig to find it.. or pick out another set of measuring spoons.  Why... oh why.. does baking have to be so stressful? 

It doesn't... 'cause I'm cleaning up this mess and gettin' organized!!

Hugs to all!!

Gloria

January 27, 2012

Today is the day... I've been waiting for this day FOREVER!!!  We are loaded up and heading to Camp Blanding this afternoon to get everything ready for our weekend retreat. 

I had such a hard time deciding what in the heck to take to work on!  So... I have a couple of hand projects and two quilts to work on... (yea right... like I'm going to get all of this done...ha!).  Since this is a 5 day venture... I surely don't want to run out of things to do!  (that will never happen...not in my entire lifetime...)

I found this wonderful story about a little girl and her dog... I just had to share it with all of you.  It's a little lengthy...but so worth reading.

Our 14 year old dog, Abbey, died last month. The day after she died, my 4 year old daughter Meredith was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey. She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her. I told her that I thought we could so she dictated these words: Dear God, Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in heaven. I miss her very much. I am happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick. I hope you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and to swim. I am sending a picture of her so when you see her You will know that she is my dog. I really miss her. Love, Meredith We put the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey and Meredith and addressed it to God/Heaven. We put our return address on it. Then Meredith pasted several stamps on the front of the envelope because she said it would take lots of stamps to get the letter all the way to heaven. That afternoon she dropped it into the letter box at the post office. A few days later, she asked if God had gotten the letter yet. I told her that I thought He had. Yesterday, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch addressed, ‘To Meredith’ in an unfamiliar hand. Meredith opened it. Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, ‘When a Pet Dies.’ Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God in its opened envelope. On the opposite page was the picture of Abbey & Meredith and this note: Dear Meredith, Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help. I recognized Abbey right away. Abbey isn’t sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog. Since we don’t need our bodies in heaven, I don’t have any pockets to keep your picture in, so I am sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by. Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and sending it to me. What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you. I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much. By the way, I’m easy to find, I am wherever there is love. Love, God…

I'm not sure what person followed through with this... but they are an angel of God's!!!  How sweet!

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Do you know what these are?  They are called Tallow berries.  They grow on trees... I MUST tell you this story...   Several years ago we lived in a house off Old St. Augustine Road... I soon discovered one morning that I had 3 of these trees growing on the side of my house.  Now.. let me tell you... I was so EXCITED!!

I've loved these things forever and could never find them.  They look so cute in my primitive decorating.  Well.... I kept watching the biggest tree... until the "popcorn" (the nickname for these berries) was just the right size... nice and white.  Then I wake up one morning and it's raining.. I knew it was time to cut the berries when I came home from work and let them dry out in the garage.

Soooooooooooooo ... I came home from the store... pulled in the driveway and noticed the yard fellows had been there... grass looked wonderful!  Then I noticed... on the side of the street - clippings from my Tallow Tree!  LOTS OF CLIPPINGS!!!  I was SCREAMING IN THE CAR... NNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.....   I flew out of the car - whipped open the fence gate to the back yard... and there it was... a NAKED TREE - my berries were ALL GONE.  I know this is silly... but I just sobbed!  (call me a little crazy)... sniffle... no more popcorn... it was all in the street in little pieces.  If I would have had a GUN.. the yard man would have been DEAD!

The sad part of this story is... the cutting of the tree shocked it so much... it NEVER bloomed again!  Isn't that a sad, sad story?  (((sniffle)))  It still makes me tear up!  Oh well... on to better things!

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Speaking of better... check out this COWBOY!!!

This... now this makes me forget all about my Tallow Berries !  HA... What a fine speciman of a man...don't you say?  I think you should all put this as a screen saver on your computer!  HA!

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Look at this scrumptious chili recipe!!! OMG... wouldn't this be wonderful when the weather gets a little colder?  LOVE IT!!!

Sweet, yummy cornbread cooked on top of your chili!  OMG.. .I can feel my tummy rumble.  Here is the link with the instructions.  Chili and Cornbread

I gotta get me some of these jars!!!  Have you noticed how popular they are lately.  Pinterest has tons of websites and recipes with Mason Jars.  I've even made a new 'board' with these kinds of recipes.  Such fun!!  It would be fun to have a luncheon for some friends with this chili and cornbread!!

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3 New Sewing Projects I have planned

(when to finish them is the issue)

I love this one... I'm going to make it with wool appliques!  This pattern is from Joined at the Hip.  It will soon be on my cutting table.  I'm making it a sample for my B-a-a-a-d Girls club.  I think everyone would have fun making it.  It's called Sunflower Baskets!!

Here's another one....

"Spring is Here".  I thought the center flowers would look cute from wool too!!!  These projects are nice for my dining room table and are quick to construct.  I like quick!!!

Then... I found this adorable 'heart'......

Isn't it adorable... I don't know what I'm going to do with it.. .but you know... I don't care.  Wait a minute... I just had a thought.  It would look adorable propped up on the shelf I have hanging above a quilt.  hhhmmm.... maybe I'd better rehang a new quilt... a RED and WHITE one... ok... I know have a vision!  I can feel redecorating in my bones... all because of this silly little heart.  Help me... help me.....

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Well... I do have some computer work and a couple of pattern orders to fill... so I'm passing on your tip of the day for getting organized.  This one is simple...

Go through your bathroom towels and washcloths.  Dump the ones that are 'on the edge of being nasty'... you know... the ones that you've had since your wedding day!!  Put them in your rag pile... watch the sales and treat yourself to some wonderfully, fluffy, new towels !!!

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Chat with you soon!

Gloria

January 24, 2012

AAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW.... Isn't this adorable?  This puppy reminds me of my friend's (Cathy) puppy!  She's such a sweet lab.  These are the most loveable dogs.  I thought it was time for a sweet, picture to make us feel good today.  Do you feel better?  I'd love to kiss the top of her head right now....

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Ok... I've always had a fascination with all of the cool things people do with men's ties... but I'm thinking I love this the best!  This Christmas tree skirt is made from ties !!!  It's so colorful and very, very wonderful.  It can fit both the artistic quilter and the primitive!

HOWEVER... this puppy is FOR SALE  for a mere.... $1200.00 !!  Whip out your checkbooks and buy me ONE..!!!  Can you imagine.  BUT once you look at it close up and all the work that is involved you can see why.  Have you ever sewn with ties?  I haven't... but I envision them to be slippery, raveling all over the place... and really, really hard to keep your seam straight.

Now that I've scared the stew out of you (never wanting to work with ties), I'm challenging you to help me find a pattern for this sweet thing!  Does anyone know where it could be????

Here's the link so you can take a gander at it closer.   I especially love the stripe that she's put for the binding.  Cool... very cool!!!  I'll be watching for mine in the mail from one of you. (ha...I'm not giving up hope!)  Men's Tie Tree Skirt

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Now this idea needs to be used on my kitchen rugs.  I've tried the woven rubbery stuff under them... nope...doesn't work well... they still slip.  I'm going to get my honey on this project.  He'll be more than happy to help...he hates the slippery rug thing... makes him VERY unhappy!

"Slip-proof your rug: To give an area rug some traction, flip it over, and apply lines of acrylic-latex caulk every 6 inches or so. Once dry, you can safely put down your rug; the rubbery strips will hold it in place.. . . brilliant!"

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Wow.... is this some kind of work or what?  My head spins when I look at it.  I just think it's fantastic.  When you look close... the centers are different in some of the blocks... Here is the link to look at it closer and to find out more information on getting the pattern instructions.  Hey... I could watch for this in my mail too...!!  So exciting... HA!!

Quilt Link

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I know this is a Christmas Idea... but I just couldn't help myself in sharing it with you.  I think it's so cool and I only wish I would have thought of it years ago when we were first married!  Every time you live in a house or apartment - keep one of the keys and make it into a cute Christmas decoration for your  tree.  Then when you are trimming your tree you can remember back to those days and remember the fun times, how you decorated your place, friends you hung out with, vacations you took, etc.  Isn't that sweet?  I thought it would be cute to give to children for those special events for later in their life... like - this is the house you were born in (maybe attach a little photo in a frame attached to the key), this is the house where you first learned to ride a bike,  this is the house where you lived when you started school, this is the house you lived in when you lost your first tooth,  where you went on your first date, ssssssseeeeeeeeeeee............  get the idea????

 I know it will mean a 'hill of beans' to them when they are little... but when they get to be older - they will love it.  That you took the time to make these memories for them.  So... this is my theory.... it you want to start NOW and your children are older (let's say in grade school) find some old keys... make the memories from them and then save them! (they will have NO CLUE they are not the actual keys from the house... tee hee!)  Then from this day on - you can use the actual keys.  Sound good?  Please let me know if you all decide to do this.  I just think it's a sweet idea.

Now my daughter, Heather and her honey, Keck... they have moved 16 times since they have been married (FIFTEEN YEARS!). I think that's what she said the other night. They love to buy houses, fix them up, sell them for a profit, and then move to another one and do the same thing. So, Lexie, will have a good start on "Christmas Keys" already... RIGHT HEATHER? HA! ((love you))

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Look at this sweet thing!  I just think it's adorable and I'm just going to have to make one of these.  What can I do with it then...hhhmmmm... I know.. I'm going to hang it from the latch on my yellow cabinet in my sewing room... it will look adorable there!

I saw one similar to this hanging from a picture of grandchildren that was hanging on the wall.  3 of them in one picture (one for each flower)... they are the 'hearts' of their Grandma and Grandpa... that's for sure!!

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Then... we have this SWEET bird holding a strawberry!! OMG ... I just think this is adorable.  I'm going to put it in my 'wool project' folder for a future project with the B-A-A-A-D Girls Club at Cinnamon's.  I think several of the gals would love this little fellow.... Wouldn't you????

Ok... tomorrow and the next day are ... 'hustle days' with loading the van for Camp Blanding... running errands... buying coffee stuff... making copies... so you WILL NOT GET A BLOG POST FROM ME.... I'll pick back up after my duties are done!!

Hey... almost forgot... here is your organizational tip for the day!

Find a storage shelf that is a MESS!!  Go through everything - purge, merge and straighten.  Remember to use baskets, plastic containers, etc. and get things looking spiffy!!

See you in a few....

Gloria

January 23, 2012  Monday

Happy Monday everyone!  Are you ready for an exciting week?  Mine is hustle bustle... I'm finishing up my hooking retreat today...! I'll post pictures for you when I get them all cropped !

Then... it's time to put all of the final touches to the January Camp Blanding Retreat.  I'm so excited.... We only have this event 2 - 3 times a year and it's a blast.  I think I have 172 people signed up... wwwhhhhooooiiieeeee...!  What Fun.

I'm already working on the fall retreat... fun new things we're trying to get going for you.

Today's "feel good" photo is a hoot.. I burst out laughing when I found it.  I hope it brightens your day!

hahahahahahahahahahaha !!!!!  Too darling !!!

HEY...speaking of babies... I'm going to be a great-GG (grandma gloria) to a sweet baby girl!!!  My grand-daughter - Elizibeth is having "Aubree" in June (around the 9th).  I'm so excited!!!  Ok... just so you know... there are NO boys in this family (only my son - Toby).  I have 4 grand-daughters and soon 1 great grand-daughter... there's still time for a boy though...

I'm not loosing hope!

I can't wait to snuggle her!!!

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Decorating ideas!

I found some really cool ideas I thought I would pass on to you!  Take a peak at how they used these adorable hankies!

Isn't this precious?  It looks like they hung a second rod (maybe covered with fabric - or ribbon wrapped around the rod??)  Then hooked them on with the cafe rod hooks.  Do you have a collection of hankies?  Do you own hankies from your mother or grandmother?  What a wonderfully, sweet way to display them.  Heck..these would look great in your sewing studio too!  Or in a guest bedroom, or a little girls bedroom.... or even in a bathroom! 

I like how they folded them - staggered/overlap look so you get to see the entire hankie! 

I think it's super cool!!!

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And here was another fun idea for hanging curtains - the primitive way!! LOVE IT!!

I'm not sure why I'm attracted to hooks... so is my daughter, Heather.  (kind of strange don't you think?)  Oh well.. it is what it is!  I think this is so cool...for those of you that are primitive lovers.  OR... for those of you that aren't into the crackly look... it would also look wonderful painted a coordinating color to match your room.  Can you just see the board painted a soft pink on a white wall with white tab curtains?  That sounds like a Susan Ache (she loves pastel - OMG you should see her house...it should be in a magazine!) idea doesn't it?  I just love this.  Now.. let's talk about the hooks.

You can find old antique spoons - take them out to the concrete driveway - get a STRONG hammer and hammer the spoon part flat... then bend the spoon into a hook.  Screw them to the board... are you with me?  I've seen hooks made from spoons - with all different patterns on the handle - they are so pretty!  Try it!!!

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Then... let's talk light switches!!  Many times they are the forgotten little "touch" that can make the room.  Let's say you have a bedroom that is full of wonderful toile - bedspread, curtains.. maybe a chair or some accent pillows.  Well, here is a way to take that same look and 'dress up' your light switch covers!  Here's the link:  Covered Plates and Switches

I just love these... I've made covered switches before and they work great... especially with the modpodge covering.

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Christmas.. I found a garland that I'm simply going to have to start collecting for.  That's why I'm showing it to you now... BECAUSE IT'S WINTER and  your luck at finding red mittens is now easier!!

Don't you want one of these????  Now.. if you don't want to hang it in front of a window... how about the fireplace????? From the mantle????  Ok.. here is my issue... where in the heck do I find RED MITTENS in FLORIDA?  BINGO... I have the answer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Yes.. my dear friends... EBAY!!!  I just went online and found about 10 pair that will be adorable.  Now.. the continuing issue... they are NOT CHEAP.. so I have to purchase them one pair at a time.  I would really love to have old ones... but now we're talking ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE to find.  So.. I'll get the new ones and beat the crap out of them and make them look old!  Spray them with Primitive Gatherings stain, unravel some of the knitting.... drag them out in the yard in the dirt (ha.. just teasin'!) and before you know it... they will look old. 

I'm even using some of my OLD CLOTHESPINS to hang them to the twine/rope line.  OR.. I may just attach them to one of my awesome greenery garlands ... add some snowflake ornaments, a few primitive homespun bows... YIPPEE!!!  How far away is Christmas... I can't wait to make this display!  (my husband is going to think I've lost my marbles... oh well...)

So... are you now on the mitten hunt???  We'll all have to take pictures and then send them to me so I can post them!  What fun!

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YUMMY TIME !!!  Who loves Carrabas(sp?) ???  I do...!!  It's one of my favorite restaurants - locally that is!  I found the dipping sauce that you get with their bread.  Here is the recipe!!

Dipping Sauce 

Doesn't it look good?  I could dive in right now!

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You know how I love Annies... don't you?  (Well...I DO!)  and the cuter and primitive they are the better.  I had a brainstorm!  I'm going to have my wool hooking instructor, Katie... help me hook Annie's face... and then attach it to a body and make this sweet thing....

    She's pretty pitiful looking isn't she?  I have just the antique doily that will look so sweet on her dress.

Check out those eyes and that huge  nose!! WOW!  She's pretty sad looking and that's JUST THE WAY I LIKE HER!

I have a pair of old 'saddle shoes' from a child that I think I'll put on her.  Won't that look sweet? (I remember wearing those things and hated them!)

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Let's get organized!  How is it coming?  Are you making progress... or are you simply, IGNORING this part of the BLOG?  Uh - huh... I know you pretty well don't I?  Well.. just in case you're saving all of these ideas for a later date - here's another one for you!

Clean off any bulletin boards of OLD THINGS.

Have a happy day!!!

Gloria

January 22, 2012

Well, I have been having a blast these past few days.  I am in a wool rug hooking retreat here in Jacksonville and I'm in "WOOL HEAVEN".  All you can see - across the entire room - are heads of people (working on their projects) and beautiful wool everywhere!  I'm waiting to post pictures until the entire weekend is over with.  We have a show (for those that have 'finished' projects to display) where I'm taking lots of pictures and I'll post them for you.  Along with pictures of the hooking room, etc.

So... I have to post before it's time to take off and HOOK!!! 


I found another adorable Annie!!  This is a pattern... I'm thinking I might have to purchase one and put it in my 'pattern library'!  Do you have one of those? It's getting rather large .. I must admit!

I'm sorry if the picture is a bit blurry.... Isn't she a hoot.  I love the way they did the stitching around her eyes.  Her poor little nose... it's a bit of a mess ... but I sure do like it!  She'll be added to my collection.

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Hey... I almost forgot our "feel good" photo.  Now this one... is something else!!

Remember the terminioloy - "FAT CAT"?  Well... this is one.  Poor fella... how in the heck can he walk?  We had a fat cat when we were kids... but it did not even compare to this BIG DUDE!  How in the heck can he clean himself?  I wonder what size CAT PAN they have for this bad boy?  Whew!  I feel pretty darn skinny right now... don't you?  I'd love to know what his name is!

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I decided I would pick fun things to make for today's blog.  It simply amazes me what people can think of to make ... and how talented they are.  I saw this sweet little bird... I love birds..don't you?  When we had wonderful birds in the store they "flew" out the door (tee hee) with customers taking them home.  People just love sweet birds.  We can make this one!!

Here is the link for you.  Sweet Sparrow   If you get ambitious and make one.. .can you send me a photo please!  I'd love to see it.


Then... look at this awesome table runner.  I thought of my friend - Michal - she loves old books and this it right up her alley!

You simply buy one of the paper punches for 'edges' and go to town.  Here is the link for instructions:  Book pages table runner .  Wouldn't it be adorable to make for a wedding shower?  Or for the table at the wedding where everyone signs in at the guest book?   It would even be cute from colored pages from a book or magazine!  Let's say you're having a dinner party and you want it to be some type of a theme.  Find those pictures from magazines, tape them together, do your magic with the paper punch and you have a great idea for a centerpiece.  What a great way to get the conversation going!

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Then... we have these beautiful hearts!! 


I think they are so cute!   I love this garland - but I thought they would also look wonderful on the Christmas tree, or on packages... Once again.. here is your link for instructions:  Heart garland


You could even make them colorful... get you some gorgeous paper from the craft store... wow.. they would be so cute out of pastel colors!! 

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Plus... I've always wanted to learn to knit... GOOD!  I do know how to knit and pearl... I just can't do all of the other tricky stiches - add stitches, cast over, decrease... it's all Greek to me.  But.. it's one of those things on my bucket list.  My mother knitted all the time.  Did she ever show me how to make things.... NNNNNOOOOOOOOOOO!!!  What was up with that anyway? hhhhmmm.... 

I love this little scarf.  It's a little impractical for here in Florida... but I still love it!

Isn't it sweet?  And it looks so warm.  Would you like to make it.. .here's the link!

Knitted scarf

Let me know how it turns out!!

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And... I have one more thing for you.  Many of my friends love to do things with canning jars.  They put cookie fixins in them for gifts, all kinds of things... well... here is a great location to print labels for your lids.  I love canning jars (could it be because I helped can with my mother when I was a little girl...hhhmmm.... thousands and thousands of jars over my entire childlife!  I should hate the things after all of that....)

Here is your link:  canning jar lids


Ok... it's time to get going... I must begin my hooking again... HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

I'll chat with you tomorrow... here is your organization tip for the day!

Clean out your make up drawer - ditch that stuff you no longer wear, throw out the nail polish that is all icky!!!  You'll feel so much better!

Chow....  happy hooking!


Gloria

January 21, 2012

Well... today is the BLOG day for quilting.  I've just seen too many wonderful new ideas that I must share with you.  However... we MUST have our funny for the day!  Look what I just saw!!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!  Isn't this a hoot?  It sure did make me laugh... what are the odds of getting this picture.  Just too wondeful!

Then... here is our aaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwww  photo!!

Sweet little fellow... Wonder what he's dreaming of?  His little head is on Teddy's arm.. like a pillow!  I sure would like to scoop him up!

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One of the blocks I showed you in earlier blogs... take a peak...

I've been trying to think what fabric I want to make it out of... I just can't decide!  I don't have colors like the picture... I could use all of the different "dressing gowns" from the 1800's (love that look), I could use different blue and whites...hhhmmm.... it just hasn't hit me yet and I want to make it so BAD!!!  I think I'll dig around in my fabric closet (HUGE walk-in - pray for me that I come out alive!) and see if something strikes my fancy! 

Then... here's is another one...

Several of my sewing buddies loved this block (from Pinterest) so I put it on EQ and made it into a quilt pattern for them.  I have to remember to print more copies and take to my sewing group again.. they all want to make one.  Isn't it cute?  LOVE IT!  I'm sure it has a name (don't know what it is) but I've named it "happy star"!  It looks so colorful and happy!

Then... I just saw a new block...

Have you noticed a pattern here?  Everything I've picked out is very colorful with LOTS of pieces.  Now the LOTS of pieces part I like... however, I hardly ever make anything with bright colors... what's up with me anyway??? hhhmmm... maybe my tastes are changing and I didn't even notice it!

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Then there is this wonderful little table.  These are the old wooden TV trays.. you know ... the kind with the slippery tops that everything slides off of?  Well... look what great ironing tables they make.  Simply put lots of batting down and cover it with fabric.  Staple it on the underside and you're good to go!  I especially like the fact they take up little floor space... good to take to retreats and classes with you.  There is just something about getting up and down a million times when you are piecing and pressing that wears me out (even though it's good for me).  Plus... I just love using my own iron.. one that I'm used to... don't you? 

So... I told my friend (Lynn) that I would ask my hubby to be on the lookout for these at garage sales (he loves to take Lexie on Saturdays...)  We should be able to pick these sweet things up for a great price.

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Now...take a look at this quilt!

This beautiful quilt - came to life again the other day at my sewing group.  Karen had decided it was time to put the binding on this wonderful piece of artwork.  This is from Marcie Patch - Patchalot Patterns - it's called Indian Paintbrush  Patchalot Patterns .  When we used to do shows.. we had this quilt and kits with us.  We couldn't keep them in stock.  It was one of our best sellers.  You all need to order it today and make it for yourself.  I CAN'T FIND MY PATTERN!!  So it's time to order me another one.  I didn't make the store sample so I don't have one for myself... and I simply MUST!  Thanks Marcie for such a wonderful quilt!!

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Well... I hear my hubby calling me for breakfast... it's time to wrap up today's blog.  Here is your tip for organizing !!

Go through your plastic bag - plastic container - foil area!  Dump what you don't use!!!  Remember to push in the ends of the cardboard boxes on your foil and plastic wrap boxes.  It will keep the roll IN THE BOX!

Chat with you tomorrow!!

Gloria

I sure did make a boo-boo !!!

For the posting the other day - on how to make the button necklace.... I understand that when you clicked on the link it was the instructions to make the ironing board cover!  SORRY!!! 

It would be a little hard to wear the ironing board around your neck wouldn't it... tee hee.

Here is the CORRECT link (keeping my fingers crossed.... ).  Have fun!!

Button necklace   I believe the instructions show you how to make a coaster...but it will help you with designing your necklace!!

Later...

Gloria

January 20, 2012


Good Morning!!! 


Hope everyone is super great today.  I've picked a hodge-podge of things to share with you today!


The first one is something that I was amazed at.  I've been cooking since I was about 12 years old and used aluminum foil all that time.  Did you know you could keep the silly roll inside the box (mine NEVER wants to stay inside!) while pulling out the foil and then tearing it?  LOOK!!

Yes... I know... you are amazed (and if you already knew this...three cheers for you)!!  You can push in on each end of the box and it keeps the roll from coming out of the box and acting crazy!  Thank you ... whoever FIRST posted this on Pinterest!  I am NOW a HAPPY girl!!!  Isn't it amazing how the little things in life can make you feel so happy? 

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Look at this sweet Pillow from Crabapple Hill Studios!  I just thought this was so sweet to make for our little ones for Easter!  It's hand embroidered with crayon coloring.  Go to Meg's website and then have fun shopping.  Crabapple Hill Studio    Plus... join her 'stitchin' BLOG.  It's wonderful.  She is such an artist and so sweet AND talented!  Some day I'm going to her retreat... in the state of Washington.

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Be right back... my hubby has breakfast ready!!

YUMALICIOUS!!  Fried egg, sausage patty, hot tea!!  It was yummy...mmmmmm  good!

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I'm not sure... but I think this is a mouse.  don't you?  Here's my question... How in the heck did they get this picture?  I'll tell you what.. some of these photographers are miracle workers.  The pictures they capture are amazing.  He looks so happy doesn't he?  Are you happy today?  I sure hope so.  This little fellow will sure put you in a good mood. He makes me giggle.

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ROAD TRIP!!!

I have a friend, Charlotte, that has a travel agency (she and her hubby) and they have made arrangements to take a tour group (limit to 28) to Ireland!!  One of the fun stops is the Ireland International Quilt Show!!  June 1 - 11, 2012 are the dates.  Wait until you see what the package includes... it's SUPER.  Plus... it's a private tour group - one that is hand picked just for us.

Go to:  Exploring Europe

Search for the Ireland Quilt Tour and read all about it.  The fee covers air fare (from  your 'home' airport), all tips and gratuities, accommodations, all breakfasts, 6 dinners(amazing dining experiences), all transportation, 13 tours and events, 3 day admission to the quilt show, and more!  I've shown the trip details to several of my friends that have traveled to Ireland and they tell me this sounds fantastic. 

They've been in the tour business for 30 years and been to Ireland countless times.  Experts they are!

What a blast this will be!!  If you are interested in signing up... email me   Olde Green Cupboard Email   and I can send you the brochure and contract!!  I'm trying to help her get this going by sharing the information with all of my blog and quilting friends.  Remember.. you can take your spouse and/or family.  The only part of the trip that is actually quilt related is the show... if you don't want to attend all 3 days, they have other tours and events planned - so if you want to attend the show.. your spouse can do something different.

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Collections - I thought I would share another one with you ... antique graters.  now.. let me tell you... the round ones in the pictures.. well... they are almost impossible to find anymore.  They are VERY old.  My favorite thing to do with the graters is to use them at Christmas time.  I place them on an antique ironstone platter (one that can handle heat) at different levels. (some of them are placed on coffee cups turned upside down).  Then I place a clear votive cup with a candle inside under each one... lite them...  and the display is gorgeous.  I also put greenery and red berries on the plate.  Once lit - the designs it shines on your ceiling and walls is so pretty.  Scented candles (pine) are even better.  LOVE THEM!

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Check out this wonderful quilt.  As you can tell - I'm a primitive/shabby chic kind of girl and I just think this quilt is the BOMB!!  Do you have a list (or kits) of quilts that you know you just have to finish before you leave this earth?  I do.. and this is one of them.  Pulling the fabric for this bad boy will be so much fun.  It's all of my favorite colors!!!  How many quilts do you have on your "MUST MAKE" list?  I haven't counted them lately...but I'm sure there are at least 12-24 of them.  Speaking of that - I think I should get busy on punching them out! 

I get so wrapped up in new projects - I do loose my focus QUITE OFTEN!  Does that happen to any of you?  I sure hope so... I don't want to be the lone ranger in this category.

Just yesterday I realized how I had lost track of time on getting some of my new quilt patterns published.  Writing the pattern is pure torture to me.  I love the design, love to make it...  but having to keep my butt in a chair to write the instructions... BLAH!!!  However, I must be more disciplined and GETTER' DONE !!!  (I promise to do better...)

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I found a wonderful, sweet thing on Pinterest!  It's a 'thankful' jar!  Here's how it works.  Everyone in the family is to participate - even the kids.  Every time something happens throughout the year where they are thankful - they are to write it down on a small slip of paper (with their name) and place it in a "Jar".  Then on New Year's Day... the family opens the jar together and reads them all aloud.  It gives the family 'bonding' time together to start the new year off... and helps them to remember all the things they are thankful for. 

Isn't that a cool idea?  Plus... you are not to be picky about what you put inside.  Even if it may seem silly... if you were thankful for it, write it down.  For example.. I can think of a few things that may seem silly - but they are so wonderful to me.  I am thankful for "the laundry that I forget to finish in the washer and dryer that Jack finished for me".  I am thankful for the sweet way Jack feeds the birds and squirrels everyday.  I am thankful for how HE makes the bed every morning (I HATE making the bed.. .I think it comes from my mother pounding that into me every day when I was a kid.)  He knows how much I don't like it... and he does it for me.  (isn't that so sweet??)

I am thankful for my sweet daughter...that she has such a wonderful heart.  I am thankful for my son-in-law and what a good daddy he is to Lexie. 

See how this works?  Try it... let's all do it together.

Organizational Tip For The Day:

Go through ONE DRAWER in your desk!  Destroy/shred items you no longer need. 

Have a happy!!  I'm off to sew... yippee!!!

Gloria