FRIENDSHIP THREADS

UPDATE 2

2012-01-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

Although fighting a bad cold (flu?) since last week,

I'm trying to focus on some progress with my projects,

sitting in front of the wood fire,

drinking hot chicken broth (yum!),

and watching some Jane Austen DVD's...

Hey, not so bad, after all !

;>)

As I told you before, one of my 2012 projects is

"A Gardener's Journal Quilt"

and I managed to piece Block N° 1.

There are 9 blocks in total, and I'm aiming

to piece them all (without joining them together),

so that I can bring them with me to Spain, and do all

the stitcheries, while there.

(We're leaving by end of April, until November)

Here are the fabrics I chose for the borders,

as well as the DMC embroidery threads.

I like preparing every project, using lovely boxes.

This helps me staying organized...

Crochet is also giving me so much fun,

and I added a 3rd row to my

"Gipsy Blanket"

(taking a full picture is difficult because it's wide)

There are 13 squares width, and I'm planning to make 16 rows in total

(+borders)

Other projects (including 1, maybe 2 Ufo's )

are still simmering in my mind, but I'm not hurrying,

enjoying every stitch.

Tomorrow is another day...

;>)

Enjoy your sewing, my friends !

JANUARY 2012 - UPDATE 1

2012-01-09T02:37:00.000-08:00

Well, the festivities are all behind us,

Xmas decorations have been put back to sleep,

A gooooood rest was taken, as well...

New year, new projects !
;>)

Here are my humble beginnings :

AaaaaHem ! Tadaaaaa

"Japanese Boxes"

From Quiltmania nr 81

(handpiecing)

A very simple, yet effective pattern,

giving me the opportunity of using all those Japanese

fabrics from my collection.
(The picture doesn't show the right color for
the upper triangles border, which are rusty red).

I'm planning to handpiece one row a week...

Aaaaah, crochet !

You might remember this recent post of mine (clic),

about those delightful Turkish yarns...

Well, I finally started my "Gipsy Blanket", as I'm calling it,

and I can tell you it's pure blisssssss !

I'm planning one row a week for this one, as well,
for a total of 17 rows...

Another wonderful project (clic)

is on my working table, and I'm now busy

transferring the cute stitcheries on a beige background...

Of course, I won't let down some of my UFO's
(including handquilting),

and I will tell you more as I go, I promise.

I also chose my focus word for 2012 :

- P E R S E V E R A N C E -

Until next week,

Enjoy your sewing my friends !

;>)

GRATITUDES :

*************

- Days are slowly getting longer...

- Some pheasants looking for food in the field, early this morning...

- Two of my kids coming for supper, tonight...

- Coffee brewing in the kitchen for a nice cuppa'...

BEST WISHES TO EVERYONE !

2011-12-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

Where did the months, weeks, days, go ?

This year passed so quickly,

with good and sometimes sad moments.

Life...

But we all did our best,

sharing our joys and projects,

sustaining each other when necessary.

Now we're reaching a New Year,

full of promises and unknown challenges.

I wish you

health, confidence and daily simple joys.

I wish you

lots of projects and perseverance.

I wish you

giggles with your beloved ones.

And of course

I wish we keep quilting, creating, and sharing !

Thanks for your friendship...

;>)

MR POSTMAN, I LOVE YOU ! ;>)

2011-12-20T00:40:00.000-08:00

She 's such a talented quilter,

such a nice and caring woman,

and above all, such a cherished friend !

Knowing how much I do love stitchery quilts,

here's what she sent to me,

together with a cuuuuute Xmas brooch,

that I'll proudly wear on my Xmas apron...

;>)

Sweet Daantje,

not only do you mean so much into my life,

but you also know how to make me dance !

Thank youuuuuuuu!

COLORS !

2011-12-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

WOW !

;>)

Some weeks ago, while browsing into Flickr crochet groups,

I stumbled upon this beauty (clic) and couldn't take my eyes off of it.

I kept coming back to it, and looking, and dreaming...

The least I could do was leaving an enthusiastic comment

to the talented maker : RIA (a Dutch lady living in Turkey),

expressing my admiration for her work and the colourful yarns she's using...

Ria emailed me that she could eventually buy some yarn and send it to me.

"which colors do you want?" she asked

"I want them all !" I said, HeeHee.....

The deal was set in a snap,

and the big box hit my door this morning.

;>)

BLISSSSSSSSS...

Now my hook is ready, and I just can't wait starting my blanket.

I'm hooked!

THANK YOU, dear Ria, for having made this possible.

As promised, you will soon be able to check my progress...

Note : you can visit Ria's Flickr photo stream

HERE

(don't hesitate to leave a comment, she really deserves it)

HAPPY - HAPPPY - HAPPPPY ME ! ;>)

2011-12-13T03:40:00.000-08:00

Ooooh, My oh My !

It was still dark outside, when the mailman knocked my window,

with a big package coming from Nicosia - Cyprus !

I can't tell you how excited I was,

discovering this lovely big box...

Hmmmm.... what could be inside ???

OMG, a quilt !

A wonderful quilt for me, myself, moi !

Look at this beauty and those gorgeous colors....

And who could have had this fabulous idea,

of mixing precious Den Haan&Wagenmakers fabrics

with polka dots, plus those we frantically collected

together, when in Provence ?

VALI, of course !

My dear, dear friend, Vali....

Here's a close-up

Each and every fabric is a new discovery,

bringing back such swet memories and perfumes :

lavender, blue sky, grapes, raspberries, tomatoes....

and all those laughters & giggles.

It really is a story quilt and you can imagine

how I'm gonna cherish this beauty.

(I can't show you the backing, (+ handquilting!)

just know that Vali chose a very special, warm flannel,

in order to keep me warm in this cold, rainy country of mine.

;>)

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, dear sissie!

Really, I tell you my friends,

turning 60 is absolutely won-der-ful !

ENJOY YOUR SEWING,

ENJOY THE SEASON,

ENJOY LIFE !

SPANISH UPDATE 3 ... a little bit of everything

2011-09-16T08:03:00.000-07:00

Two Farmer's Wife blocks were completed, this week

Nr 5 : Bat Wing

(looking rather funny, when set on point, don't you think ?)

Nr 6 : Big Dipper

*****

We're also strolling around, visiting markets, meeting people,

and having much fun ;>)

Busy hands... Simple Life...

I WON'T move !

"Do you think they put garlic in there ?"

Cheap airco...

Appetizers...

Oooh, to be a little girl again, and wear those shoes for playing !

"Al' fresco" chatting...

See you next week, my friends,

Take care,

Enjoy your sewing !

;>)

9 / 11 ... IN MEMORY

2011-09-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

As long as we live, they too will live;

For they are now part of us,

As we remember them"

SPANISH UPDATE 2... SHIPS AHOY !

2011-09-09T13:17:00.000-07:00

The fun goes on, and I've been stitching a little on :

The Farmer's Wife Quilt Project

Block 3 : Basket Weave

Block 4 : Basket

I'm aiming 2 blocks a week, together with

Valentina, Kathinca and Marga

and have also signed in

the Farmer's Wife Quilt Along Flickr Group

These blocks are quite addictive, I must say,

and I'm so happy having started this project

......

My Travel Quilt

Inspired by HER and her gorgeous EPP "travel quilts"

I jumped into in her 60° diamonds EPP quilt along Flickr Group

and started my own project, enjoying every stitch.

English Paper Piecing is mindless piecing, (yet very precise),

it often gives stuning results,

and above all : it is portable !

Who could ask for anything more ?

So here's the beginning of my project :

see the secondary tumbler pattern that comes around the stars ?

That's what made me immediately fall,in love with that project !

So... many, many more diamonds to come...

Have a nice weekend,

enjoy your sewing, dear friends !

;>)

MOVING ON......

2011-09-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

After having experienced some delays,

(family comes first)

We finally could take the road to our Spanish retreat,

and here we are, happy as can be,

still pinching ourselves, when seeing the beauty from our terrace :

7am... such a pieceful moment !

We met some local old friends,

as well as quilters and quilt shop owners ;>)

the latter proudly announcing their quilt exhibition

from today, until 13th Sept. on.

I'll post some pictures, of course...

No need to say I took some hand stitching projects with me,

including :

My travel Quilt

An English Paper Piecing project

(probably my most fav' technique), consisting of

loads and loads of 2 inches 60° white diamonds

to make 6 points stars,

connected with bright Batiks ones...

(next coming pictures will give you a better idea)

The Farmer's Wife Quilt

Inspired by Valentina ,

who convinced me that this was our best opportunity

of using those gorgeous shirtings we bought together,

some time ago...

And, of course, she was SO right :

these blocks are pure delight piecing !

So, here are my first attempts :

Block 1 : "Attic Windows"

Block 2 : "Autumn Tints"

For some reason, this picture refuses loading properly.

The dark blue squares should look horizontally,

and the tiny red ones are looking top and down.

(but well, if you just bind your head to the right, you'll get an idea. HeeHee...)

As you can see, I'm aiming to a "nautical look",

as this quilt is intended to our Spanish seaside nest.

(maybe I should re-name the project as "The sailor man's wife" ?)

Another project in progress is

"The Wish Quilt"

(A Bronwyn Hayes Xmas stitchery-quilt)

While still in Belgium, I pieced the big blocks (6 in total)

so that I can complete the stitcheries at ease, while here.

I really would love to finish this quilt for next Xmas...

(pictures by next post).

Take care, friends, enjoy your sewing !

;>)

IN HOMMAGE...

2011-08-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

MARIEKE

A young, talended, Dutch quilter friend,

suddenly passed away,

last August 4th, while on vacations

with her beloved family.

....

I still cannot believe the news,

and I'm in deep thoughts with her,

as well as with her dear husband and 2 young sons.

....

Marieke, vriendje,

Samen, hadden wij zo'n plezier onze klosjes te maken,

en je had nog zoveel projekten!

Ik zal nooit naar mijn klosjes kijken, zonder een

speciale gedacht voor jou.

Vandaag, zal ik enigen maken,

in jouw eer.

Rust in vrede, schatje.

....

Note :
In case you'd like to write a comment,

please link directly to Marieke's blog.

Thanks.

I LOVE OUR MAILMAN !

2011-08-04T11:40:00.000-07:00

There must have been a quilty angel upon my head,

because this week was one of those special ones,

with lots of fun mail filling my box

;>)

To celebrate the famous "Sister's Outside Quilt Show"

the talented Bronwyn Hayes had organized a giveaway,

asking us to tell what the word "sister" means to us,

she would then choose 3 winners among the most appealing comments

.....

And I won, I won, Yessssssss I did, lucky me !

So the big envelope arrived from far away Australia

(those long distance courriers, crossing the oceans to my little corner of the world,

still amaze me, and it always takes me a few minutes to realize)

Look at that gorgeous wrapping !

And what's inside ???

Waow! Bronwyn's latest patterns + a cuuuute notepad !

Lucky, lucky me

THANKS, dear Bronwyn

;>)

But the mailman had a second envelope, HeeHee...

And this one came from The Netherlands ?!?

No pending order, no pending giveaway.

I was very curious...

Well, this lovely package came from a very special friend in Holland,

who decided to treat me "just because"

Look at that :

I love "just because" presents, aren't these the best ?

THANKS, sweetie!

;>)

And last, but not least, another envelope came today from Australia.

Did you check Liz's Blog, lately ?

Ooooh, those "Dancing Dollies" ...

Such an adorable pattern from Trish Harper and available on Liz's Etsy Shop.

What ?? Of course I ordered it ! Resisting was useless, don't you think ?

THANKS, dear Liz,

Your envelope arrived in no time, as usual.

So I'll call this week "The happy Dance Week"

Don't you agree ?

ENJOY YOUR SEWING, MY FRIENDS !

SMALL ITEMS...

2011-07-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

Some family issues caught my time and energy,

yet I could take some short relax times,

making small items :

("Tout ce qui est petit est joli")

;>)

1. A pincushion

up...

and down...

This is a pattern from Jeanneke

I ordered it from her Etsy shop and got it 2 days after

(very good service!)

Jeanneke's instructions and pattern sheet are SO clear,

it was a real treat to make this pincushion.

THANKS, Jeanneke!

1. A pouchie ???

No... Three !

Aren't they cute ?

(from a Yoko Saito pattern book)

Now comes the time to slowly start preparing

my sewing projects for (long) vacations in Spain,

Finally !

Stay tuned, I'll post once more before leaving...

ENJOY YOUR SEWING, MY FRIENDS!

;>)

LAURA... Empty Nest Syndrom...

2011-07-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

24 years ago...

she came into our lives quite unexpectedly,

as the icing on the cake of our beautiful family.

We were quite surprised and anxious,

but as a blessing she has always been

the most smiling child

among our 4 kids,

with such a good temper,

and a human caring nature...

Now she's starting an exciting new chapter in her life,

settling down with her beloved Nicolas

in their brand new appartment,

and we wish them

love, peace, happiness...

A strange feeling of emptiness is now filling our hearts,

as we realize the long path we walked hand in hand.

34 years of love, joy, care, but also fears, tears, anxieties,

sometimes rich, sometimes poor, counting our dimes,

but with such a collection of blessings and precious moments.

Oh, those giggles, when we were 6 around the table !

Oh, those rushes to reach school on time !

Oh, those evening stories, we read together before sleeping !

We will now pay love and attention to this new chapter

in our own lives,

The story never ends, we're just walking a new path,

As time goes by...

;>)

More news on the quilty front, by next post.

Enjoy your sewing, dear friends !

LILY... INGE... A NEW ADDICTION... AND A SPECIAL CRUISE ;>)

2011-04-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

WooooHoooo, long time no see !

;>)

I thought I'd share with you my latest (slow) progress, dreams and projects...

Lily's quilt

is coming along.

Some dollies still need hair, some flowers are waiting for stems and leaves,

and the last row is still simmering in my head.

But, all in all, I'm happy with the way it's taking shape...

New Patterns !

I've been doing a little "business" with sweet INGE, about a Sue Dalley's pattern that I love,

which she had, but didn't feel like doing any longer.

Some emails and postoffice visits later, a sweet package of happiness was hitting my door.

THANKS, dear Inge, trading with you was such a pleasure.

A new addiction ??? HeeHee...

I recently visited zillions of beautiful crochet blogs,

and just couldn't help trying my fingers on a particular, easy pattern.

Crochet is like bicycle : once you can, you never forget,

and -WOW - it's sooooo addictive, indeed !

Now I really can say I'm hooked

So I bought loaaaaads of cream, red and blue yarn in order

to crochet my first (big) afghan.

This will be my next summer holidays projects.

Wish me luck !

(6 squares down, 186 more to go! LOL LOL)

A cruise !?!???

Hellooooo ! What do you think of that ? HeeHee...

Yes, my lovelies, my sweet friend VALENTINA decided to join me for a loooong,

exciting Dear Jane Cruise !

We chose the "Contemporary Dear Jane" (clic) one,

and I'm sooo happy and grateful !

(By the way, if you didn't do it yet, please go, go and check Vali's blog!

You'll see her breathtaking klosjes quilt top, as well as her gorgeous Camelot blocks.

Her use of colors & fabrics is so special.

Vali's got that talent of choosing a pattern and making it her own style)

Some years ago, I did start a DJ quilt.

Unfortunately, the teacher insisted on using CW repro fabrics,

which I love, yet I was constantly fighting against my instinct

of choosing more vibrant tones for that project.

So I gave up after 38 blocks...

Now I'm using jewel tones and K.Fasset fabrics, on a natural white background,

(including the sashings)...and it feels sooo good !

;>)

DJ A1 - A2 - A3 - A4 + A5 in the making...

Well, I still had A LOT to tell you,

about Lily's birth celebration,

about an award I got from sweet JOLANDA,

but I guess these will be for next posting, OK ?

ENJOY this new life,

spreading all over our souls, hearts, and nature !

;>)

DON'T MISS THIS !

2011-03-15T23:50:00.000-07:00

Lori Holt, from "Bee in My Bonnet"

is having a wonderful giveaway.

If you love 1930's repro's, then hurry to her

blog, you won't regret it !

;>)

Good luck my friends,

ENJOY your sewing !

LUCY'S CHEESY NIBBLES...

2011-03-04T07:14:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, I suddenly felt the urge of baking something.

So I thought about Lucy's Cheesy Nibbles

A very simple, yummy looking recipe,

exactly what I needed !

It only took me 10 mins. preparation.

3 simple ingredients : flour, butter, cheese (I used Emmenthal)

(knowing my folks - and myself - I doubled the quantities, HeeHee....)

and my rebel side decided to add a tea spoon of

heavenly smelling Cyprus dry basil

I put them in the oven for 15 minutes

(oh, the smell !!!)

and here they are...

Believe me, you just have to try these !

THANKS LUCY

Not only do I adore your colourful crochet pattterns,

but your cooking is divine !

;>)

Note to self : these could be worth a try with Parmiggiano and chopped black olives

Hmmmmm..... possibilities ......

ORGANIZED MESS...

2011-02-22T16:02:00.000-08:00

Well, no doubt Lily is inspiring me,

no matter how long it takes deciding among

the most appropriate fabrics,

but mainly trying to figure out some appropriate designs by myself.

Here's the first row, up to now... One down, 3 more to go.

This is the first time I'm not following any particular pattern,

or setting, and I'm out of my comfort zone.

More than once, have I thought about our famous designers,

and their wonderful patterns.

Everything looks so cute and easy when you look at their sketches!

We often forget the hours and talent it takes to achieve such result...

Anyway, I'm humbly and heartfully trying,

using the best ingredient I know :

a grandmother's love

Oh, and a BIG MESS, as well !

The quilt is due for 9th April, and I'd better keep on working,

as we'll reach that day before I know it !

Enjoy your sewing, my friends !

;>)

SOME PROGRESS...

2011-02-17T23:38:00.000-08:00

Hello, dear friends !

Have you been busy, just like me ?

How time flies, indeed !

While handquilting the "Life is Beautiful", I also tried to figure the "Wish Quilt"

first block construction...

(never too late, working for Xmas!)

Then I couldn't resist starting a new project for Lily.

Inpired by Materials Obsessions, book 1,

I started with this block

Then thought she needed some hair + face details...

I don't know exactly where this will lead me, my main idea being

"Lily in the Garden"

I'm planning to make quite a few cuties like this, all with different details, then adding

other blocks with flowers, butterflies, trees, etc.

We'll see...

Looks like our little princess loves the idea !

While Andrea is veeery serious, playing hockey !

I still have another "secret" to share with you...

All I can tell you now is that I'm definitely "hooked", HeeHee....

Until next time,

ENJOY YOUR SEWING, MY FRIENDS !

;>)

DOLL QUILT SWAP

2011-02-09T15:44:00.000-08:00

I recently subscribed to a Doll Quilts Swap;

organized by Christine.

Here's a sneak peek, in order to tease my partner,

HeeHee...

;>)

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL...

2011-01-31T10:49:00.000-08:00

Indeed !

I purchased this wonderful pattern from Helen Stubbings (see my sidebar)

and started it last July 2010...

Today, I can happily report that my quilt top is ready for handquilting

;>)

Some close-ups...

This quilt is very special to me.

I pieced and embroidered it in a particular moment of my life,

and the little sayings were very meaningful...

No need to say I enjoyed each and every stitch.

I just can't wait basting it, tomorrow evening.

And then... on to the handquilting, yeppppppeee !

THANKS for your lovely encouragements,

enjoy your sewing, my friends !

25th is Xmas Post !

2011-01-25T06:49:00.000-08:00

Narelle, at "Nell's Notions"

had a wonderful idea :

You might have noticed that Xmas button
on my left sidebar (scroll down a little)

Being always late for my Xmas sewn items,

I found the idea so brilliant,

and I joined the group...

(you can get more info. by just clicking on the sidebar button)

My big Xmas project, this year, is "The Wish Quilt"

on the 25th, each month....
Hmmm...... might be ready for next Xmas, this year !
Yepppppeeeee!

Here are stitcheries 1 and 2

Aren't they cute, indeed ?
I just LOVE that background fabric,
it makes me think of falling snow...

;>)

In thoughts with Australia...

2011-01-11T03:46:00.000-08:00

Terrible floodings keep going in Australia, causing disastrous damages,

and even death...

In thoughts with all those families loosing everything,

let us be generous and share what we can,
be it a prayer, a thought, or a generous auction...

Actually, some of our talented Australian quilting sisters are offering

some beautiful items for auction,

in order to help as much as we can.

Here's the button to check.

You can even do more by placing it on your own blog...

and the referred link :
http://tonicoward.blogspot.com/

Up to now, I have listed some fellow Australian bloggers, dealing with these auctions

Daisy Quilt
The Last Piece
Julia's Place
Ann's Quilting Journey
Once Upon A Quilt
Jenny of Elefantz
Willowberry Designs
A House In The Country
...
I'm sure there are many more, check your files !

The Gum Tree Designers have just launched the appeal to help fellow crafters who have lost everything in the floods. Visit their blog HERE for details on how you can help !
Also, I remember having visited an Australian blog, collecting heart quilt blocks
for the purpose...
Unfortunately I lost the link??
If someone could help me, I'd be grateful.
THANKS

Saturday... Klosjes day !

2011-01-08T14:59:00.000-08:00

First klosjes report, this year.

Some of my New Year's reflection concerned those "klosjes".

Just like hexies, these are a looong term project,

and it looks like they're "planted" on my working table

(if only they could grow and multiply by themselves! LOL)

As an early riser, I decided making 2 (maybe 3) of them,
each morning, while enjoying my first cuppa,

when the house is still asleep ...

I focused on red and yellow this week

"Shoot for the moon, even if you miss
you'll land among the stars"

2011 FIRST WEDNESDAY FLOWER DAY REPORT...

2011-01-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

One of my goals, this year, is to stitch 3 flowers a week...

So here is the first trio for 2011

Enjoy your sewing, dear friends !

;>)

"Whatever your hands find to do, verily, do it with all your might"

Ecclesiastes, 9:10

HAPPY NEW YEAR !

2010-12-29T14:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

My heartful wishes to you !

Thanks for the inspiration

throughout the year,

Thanks for your lovely comments

on this blog,

Thanks for your constant encouragements.

Enjoy this coming New Year,

Enjoy your family & friends,

Enjoy each and every moment,

May your secret wishes & projects come true...

;>)

Wednesday... Xmas Flowers Day !

2010-12-21T22:27:00.000-08:00

Helloooooo, dear friends !

For this special Wednesday, I thought it would be fun to stitch

some Christmas flowers...

Wishing you all a peaceful, joyful,

Enjoy your family and friends !

;>)

Nadine

2010-12-13T16:45:00.000-08:00

59 GOOD REASONS TO CELEBRATE! ;>)

Tomorrow is my birthday, and I wish to share with you this happy song that I heard some weeks ago. For some reason, it keeps haunting my mind and I just can't help singing it, so I thought we might sing it together, if you like it ?
The name is "I just wanna be OK today"
Nice program for the coming next year, isn't it ?
E N J O Y ! ;>)

Note : before clicking on the video, you might need to click on the stop button of my music box (2 vertical bars), otherwise you might get some "happy minestrone", HeeHee....

Starting the Season ... ;>)

2010-11-28T00:26:00.000-08:00

First Sunday of Advent Time...

Hello, dear friends !

With this magical view from my window...

I thought it was about time to start the festive Season with this tipsy snowman...

Isn't he cute and funny ?

Also, you all know how I love music,

particularly those "good oldies", and I could finally

find a way to bring it back on my blog, yeaaaaah...

Please feel free to switch it off,

or listen to another song, eventually,

by simply clicking on the corresponding buttons.

Busy, busy as a bee,

I'm still working on my "Life is Beautiful" project,

enjoying every stitch, as always,

and I'll soon be back with some good news

Stay tuned , and dance with me!

;>)

Catching Up... Finally !

2010-10-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

A new grand baby...

A new blog...

And what's new on the quilting front, Nadine ?

Aha !

Well, I think my last quilty update was posted on 20th September,

with the blue birds quilt - time flies, indeed !

OK, let's go

Klosjes

I handpieced 48 new ones, since my return from Provence (beg. Sept)

Not so much in 2 months time, actually.

I'm planning to come back to my successful "klosjes rythm" :

"rise up early and make 3 while the house is still asleep"

(it works ---> makes 90 in a month time!)

Hexie flowers

One more flower was "planted " last week

Life is Beautiful

All 4-patch blocks are pieced, and 22 stitcheries were appliqued.

I'm halfway done for the quilt top (pictured on my design wall).

This is my focus project for the moment

Xmas 2010 wall quilt

Blocks 1, 2 and 3 are done and I started nr.4 yesterday evening

(picture by next post)

.............

Are you still here ?

;>)

I also wanted to mention some additional projects I worked on, while in Provence

but these will probably keep sleeping, until next vacations, HeeHee...

Little Houses

This is a fun project made of repro. fabrics that Kathie

generously sent to me, some time ago.
Most of them were used in my (pending) baskets quilt

but I absolutely wanted to use the small leftovers. So I cut as many pieces as possible,

in order to build my "repro's village". I think I'll have enough to make 20 houses...

Tumbler Doll Quilt

And I had so much fun, handpiecing this one with the relaining tiniest pieces. (No waste!)

I'm still hesitating about the border. Thought about that yellow one,

but it's much too light...

*******

Phew ! That was an update, wasn't it ?

Now all I have to do is :

keep on stitching,

keep on dreaming,

AND

keep on blogging !

Enjoy your sewing, dear friends

;>)

Note :

Thank you sooo much for your lovely comments about our

darling grand daughter Lily, you really touched our hearts.

IT'S HERE !

2010-10-27T16:41:00.001-07:00

to this new blog, my friends !

Hope you'll like it,

crossing my fingers (and toes) everything will be allright, from now on.
Also, if you still wish being a member of my blog,
you will have to do it again. Thanks.
;>)

I'd like to take this opportunity to send

a huuuuge & heartful thank you to my dear blog fairy.

This would certainly not have been possible without her

Blessings...

2010-10-19T01:24:00.003-07:00

On Sunday17th October,

our family was blessed with the birth of

LILY

A new life's begun,

and our circle is richer with

our darling first grand-daughter

;>)

*****************

Dear friends,

my blog is still under re-construction

(actually, I think we're going to create a new one)

and I don't post a lot,

but I wanted to share this wonderful news with you all !

Blog under re-construction...

2010-10-08T22:36:00.003-07:00

Dear friends,

Looks like Blogger is still playing with me,
and I'm so sorry for the inconvenience caused.

A good angel friend of mine is now trying to solve this problem,

and I won't post until everything comes back to normal...

THANKS for your patience,

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

**************

QUOTE :

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another,

'What! You too? I thought I was the only one." ~ C.S. Lewis

**************

Stitching for Xmas - Block 1

2010-10-07T16:49:00.003-07:00

Time flies and Christmas is only 10 weeks from now !

I just couldn't resist this lovely project, created by 9 of our talented Dutch quilting friends

(see my sidebar)

There will be 9 stitchery blocks (one block a week),

then pieced together in a cute Xmas wallhanging.

Here's my first block...

This first block was designed by ELLEN . It is free, and you can still download it !

To participate, just leave a comment, and eventually stick the logo on your sidebar...

(The second block was created by JACQUELINE and is already available)

Other designers :

DORRY (block 3)

INGRID (block 4)

GERDA (block 5)

JOOKE (block 6)

BARBARA (block 7)

SANDRA (block 8)

JANINE (block 9 + piecing, borders & quilting instructions)

OOPS, maybe you'd like seeing the whole project ?

;>)

Enjoy your sewing, my friends !

;>)

Blog Problems... but Flowers anyway ;>)

2010-10-06T09:01:00.003-07:00

I spent this whole afternoon, trying to solve these layout problems

NO WAY Grrrrrrr

I had more than 10 sidebar widgets (+ blog wallpaper) etc...

that suddenly refused to appear. including Blog archives and Blog members

(?)

So I contacted Blogger ---> no satisfying/understandable answer.

Then I decided to clear out all gadgets, and started reloading everything again :

only my profile and 2 gadgets are now appearing on the sidebar,

the rest is total mystery...

I'm fed up, discouraged, and even about closing everything

(although erasing 6 years of happy blogging would make me very sad)

Would there be a good friend, among my readers, who would accept

going inside my blog, check everything and play the mechanic ?

I'd be sooooo grateful !

YET...

my garden is growing and here are some flowers to you

;>)

Enjoy your sewing, my friends!

Wednesday... Flower Day !

2010-09-29T15:06:00.003-07:00

Aaaaah, nothing better than a few flowers, under such chilly weather...

Inspired by our talented Dutch friend Ria,

(check her gorgeous flower garden under the label "Hexagonnetjes" in her sidebar)

I just started this flower garden (3/4 inch hexie papers)

and I'm hooked !

;>)

Enjoy your sewing, my friends !

Note : I'm still experiencing problems with my blog layout, thanks for your patience.

;>)

Blog problems.....

2010-09-28T11:53:00.003-07:00

Don't know what's happening ?

I'm experiencing some problems with my blog :

the font (wallpaper) doesn't show anylonger, and most of my sidebar gadgets disappeared !?

Yet, I re-initialized all information, etc...

No way.

Did any Blogger users among you already experience this ?

I'd be grateful if you could help me

;>)

I'm in the mood for blues... Life is beautiful !

2010-09-20T05:28:00.003-07:00

Leaves are changing colors,

Dancing in the cold breeze, and playing music in the trees...

Little birds now gather together,

Preparing for the big migration,

and celebrating the change of season...

It took me 2 years to organize this birdies family reunion,

quietly handpiecing one or two, here and there...

Now they're ready for their handquilting trip,

and my needle will happily fly among them.

Meet "The Blues Brothers and their cousin"

;>)

Original pattern : "In the Leafy Tree Tops"
designed by our talented friend Nanette,
Thanks dear !
No matter how long it took me,
I'm sooo grateful for the pleasure I had, piecing these cuties together !

(backing fabric)

************************

Life is beautiful - Update nr. 5

These looong vacations allowed me to progress on the LIB project, and I really enjoyed completing all (32) stitcheries.

I'm now busy machine piecing the 4-patch blocks for the background,
and will then applique the stitcheries on them.
Still a lot to do, one stitch at a time,
among other new projects (? ? ? ) ...
but this is another story, for next post !

Enjoy your sewing, my friends !

Back...Just in time for Klosjes Day ! ;>)

2010-09-04T02:19:00.003-07:00

Hellooooooo, dear friends !

;>)

Back from beautiful Provence,

where we had such a wonderful time...

(although I missed you!)

We visited a lot of heavenly places,

tasted the most delightful fresh local products,

AND spent an unforgettable week with Vali & Hubby...

Boy, did we have FUN !

Yet I was a good girl, and made some progress in my sewing :

first with my klosjes, as I managed to piece 132 of them

(which makes my total reaching approx. 300)

I was happy with that, but "fed up", as I told Vali.

She always has such brilliant ideas, and suggested it was time

to start piecing them together !
This gave me the right push I needed to keep going
And here's the result...

(The background fabric is a little treasure I found in a local quiltshop, and I'm planning to use it as the border fabric)

I've got SO MUCH MORE to tell you,

(and even more progress to show, HeeHee.....)

I guess this will take several coming posts.

not to mention those last 2 months posts of yours

that I have to catch up

(and I know I'm going to discover such treasures)

Have a nice weekend, THANKS for visiting,

and by all means

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

;>)

Blog Break until next September...

2010-06-26T16:01:00.003-07:00

Among my quilty luggage, is a little suitcase...

filled with looooads of pre-cut "klosjes" !

Is that what they call optimism ? HeeHee...

I just love being "ready-set-go"

All I need now is needle & thread

;>)

I'll miss my daily visits to you, but I'll catch up sooner or later

and we'll have a "cuppa'" all together chit-chatting about last news...

Take care my lovelies, be happy, enjoy your sewing !

Don't miss this !

2010-06-24T14:19:00.003-07:00

Hello friends!

;>)

Still alive and busy, busy preparing our summer holidays,

which means cutting, cutting, to fill in a big sewing bag...

However, I'm still visiting many friends (you all are such a great source of inspiration!)

and I just read that sweet Sandra is having a wonderful giveaway.

Don't miss your chance !

Wednesday Cut...Cut...Cutting...

2010-06-09T04:52:00.003-07:00

The summer holidays are not so far, and I decided to have a hexies big cutting session,

so that everything is ready when packing...

The process was easy, as I'm only using 4 different fabrics.

3" strips - hexie template designing - rotary cutting (several layers together)

I much more prefer basting hexies, rather than squares, around my paper pieces.

This way I don't have to cut / adjust my seam allowances...

Can you imagine there is a whole 85"/85" quilt in this box ?

(1825 hexies)

The best is yet to come...

Enjoy your sewing, dear friends !

;>)

Help needed !

2010-06-06T05:46:00.003-07:00

Edit : "mystery" solved !

THANKS for your lovely comments and care,

quilter friends are really the best !

;>)

*****************

I'm calling this pattern "The Mystery Stitchery".

I saw it some time ago while browsing the Web, and immediately fell in love with it.

I love the intricate design and how you can use colors to give special effects.

I asked for some more information, regarding the designer

and where I could order the pattern, eventually.

Unfortunately, I never got any answer...

Could anyone help me, pleazzzzzze ?

I'd be SO grateful !

THANKS, friends ;>)

Klosjes and LIB...

2010-06-05T08:11:00.003-07:00

Hi, my friends !

At last a wonderful sunny day, here in Belgium, Hurray !

;>)

I really had to catch up with my klosjes, this week, and managed

to piece 25 of them.

Happy dance !

Four new stitcheries for the "Life is beautiful" project are also

joining the stack, which is growing slowly but surely,

one stitch at a time...

Now I still have to catch up with visiting many of you,

Don't worry, sooner or later, I'll be there !

You're all such an inspiration ...

Have a wonderful weekend,

Enjoy your sewing !

Wednesday, Flower Day ! Update 3

2010-06-01T15:57:00.003-07:00

"I'm singing in the rain...."

Summer, summer where are you ?

It's raining cats and dogs, here !

Fortunately, we've got sunshine in our hearts,

and we keep planting flowers to enlight our days...

;>)

So I took some crayons, and drew a rough plan,

in order to visualise clearly the whole thing.
See where I'm going ?

Each flower measures 35cm (14") diameter and requires 73 hexagons.

I'm aiming a large single bed size, so I'll need approx. 20 complete flowers,

plus white borders...

.... And here's what I planted, up to now

I'm really happy that I changed my mind about the fabrics + layout,
now I can feel this quilt as "mine", and making those hexies is such a pleasure !
I was fearing that using only 4 different fabrics would make the piecing a little boring,
but actually it's very relaxing.
I love the simplicity and joy that are slowly coming from the design and colors.
This fills my heart with gratitude...

Now, I need some exercise, so on to visit your own lovely "gardens", my friends,
and see the gorgeous flowers you planted this week !
;>)

The recipe

2010-05-30T02:35:00.003-07:00

Some friends emailed me for those sun dried tomatoes recipe,

so I'll share my "secrets" with you.

****

Everything I know, regarding Italian cooking, comes from my sweet Mother-In-Law, Chiara, whom everyone named "La Nonna" (the grandmother).

La Nonna was a very simple woman from Southern Italy, mother of 6, and a genius, creative cooker who was aiming to feed her family with few money, but LOTS of taste.

As a young bride (37 years ago) I spent hours in her kitchen and have learned so much, from the basic ingredients, to her mantra :

"You need to cook joyfully and add a pinch of your heart !"

I consider as an honour to pass on what she taught me, from the basics, to comfort food and preserving, and I'm totally convinced that good cooking is part of happy family gatherings, and even a happy marriage !

;>)

Thinking about all this, I might consider creating a special file on my sidebar, under the label :

"Ricette della Nonna"

...what do you think ?

*********************************************

SUN DRIED TOMATOES

**********

For approx. 4 x one pound jars

(you don't want to waste your time for one small jar only, do you ?)

Note : I prefer those smaller jars rather than big ones, as I will open them frequently, and also because the bottom would taste too hot in the end...

You will need :

1 liter (33 Fl.oz) good quality olive oil

1 liter (33 Fl.oz) white balsamic vinegar
(this is part of the secret : white balsamic vinegar will give that sweet taste, much less acid than with ordinary white vinegar. A little more expensive, but you won't regret it).

3 big garlic heads
(what would be Italian cooking without garlic ?)
finely chopped

A nice big parsley bouquet
finely chopped

1 kg (2.2 pounds) SUN dried tomatoes
(please don't use those oven dried tomatoes - there's a world difference in taste)

Your tomatoes will look like this : totally dehydrated and shrinked...
Important :
You will also need some small red hot chili peppers
finely chopped (don't touch your eyes with your fingers !)

How to :
***********

1. You need to re-hydrate your tomatoes ---> put them in a big plate, and add the white balsamic vinegar. Let them "rest" for approx. 45 minutes, stirring from time to time (use your hand ! They're the best cooking tools, besides white vinegar will give you beautiful hands)...

2. Then you'll use your muscles and twist the tomatoes, so that you take off as much vinegar as possible...

3. Sit down, have a cuppa', and start unshrinking/opening each tomato piece. You want to get them nice and flat. Take your time, no rush, have FUN chit-chatting ;>)

4. Your jars are ready on the table (rinsed with boiling water and dried), with the rest of the ingredients (chopped parsley, chopped garlic, chopped hot peppers, olive oil)

5. You will work in layers, like this :

- a) some olive oil + a pinch of parsley + a pinch of garlic + a (small) pinch of red hot pepper

- b) 5 to 6 half tomatoes, gently arranged to cover that a) layer

- and on, and on..... from a) to b).... Pushing on the layers, from time to time (use your hand---> olive oil is sooo good to them)

You also want it to be nice looking, of course, eating begins with the eyes !

- Finish with one nice layer olive oil at the top of the jar.

Then comes the hardest part : you'll have to wait for one whole month, before tasting your "jewels" ! (Have a check during first week : tomatoes will "drink" a lot, and you might need adding some olive oil).

Use :

*********

- We like them simple, to accompany Italian cooked meats and bread,

- or chopped and mixed with warm pasta + chopped black olives and parmiggiano (Hmmmmm!)

- Try them on warm roasted bread + cream cheese (to die for!)

- or with mozzarella slices and basil (close your eyes : you're in Italy ;>)

- finely diced and mixed with green crispy salad

- on pizzas,

- as appetizers, rolled around some mozzarella cheese,

etc......

Note : when your jar is empty, don't throw away that precious perfumed oil ---> use it on your pizzas, or in salads, or even on hot pasta + ruccola and cheese...

ENJOY !

;>)

Filling the Pantry....

2010-05-28T22:24:00.006-07:00

First I wish to THANK YOU all, for your sweet, encouraging comments

on my last post. I wish I could have answered everyone, but life just caught me up.

Be sure that each and every word were so much appreciated

and filled my heart with joy...

No sewing this week !

We've come to that time of the year, when we start jarring,

and filling the pantry, together with my SIL's.

DH recently went to Italy, and brought back a whole lot of sun dried tomatoes.

So we spent some funny days, preparing these with olive oil, garlic, parsley, pimientos...

LOTS of work, but lots of giggles and singing, too !

I love my Italian family...

;>)

Next weeks, we'll work on eggplants, cucumbers, pepperoni, artichokes, etc.

Big job, but we'll be sooo happy by next winter !

Besides, those days spent doing that all together, are filling our hearts with

sweet memories for the future...

I'll be back soon, with quilty news.

In the meantime,

enjoy your sewing, dear friends !

;>)

Flower Garden... 2nd version

2010-05-19T14:50:00.003-07:00

Whew ! ... Just in time : it's midnight, here...

;>)

Well, my garden caused me some "trouble" and brainstorming, this week.

Actuallly, the more I was basting my hexies, the more I felt unhappy about these.

Though not being my usual comfort zone, I loved those shirtings fabrics - and still do -

Yet I was not feeling that quilt as "mine" and I kept trying different settings, etc...

no way ---> the fabrics didn't want to grow as a flowers garden !

Did you ever experience such thing ? I'm sure you did.

Some quilts want to master the process their own way....

So, before going ahead, I decided to step backwards and THINK (it happens!)

What did I really want ? ... Fortunately, I've got that habit to keep track of quilt pictures I really love , and I had seen this one hereunder in a magazine, in March 2009. Just a picture, no name, no pattern, no directions. I remember I even posted a picture of it on our Great Hexagon Quilt Along Group (Hi, dear Robyn !)

And then I had the lightbulb ;>) ---> this is what I want to do ! This is more "me" !

I quickly checked my stash, and discovered I had the right white, blue and yellow fabrics. Bliss... All I needed was the red one, so I jumped into my car and went to our local quilt shop

Here's my evening "planting" ...

I decided to ignore those tiny triangles on the original. Only hexies here, with the same setting

CONCLUSION : ---> H A P P Y !

And isn't it all that counts, after all ?

Now I can see this garden growing week after week.

Note : the shirtings fabrics are back on the shelve. I've got some nice ideas for them... later.

;>)

Wednesday, Flower Day...

2010-05-12T10:08:00.003-07:00

In case you're listening to my music, then you can hear Nina Simone, singing

"Here comes the Sun"

and that's all I wish to happen, as we're still experiencing very chilly weather, here!

Anyway, here's a little blue hexie flower, to complete my sweet Mother's Day bouquet...

;>)

YET... I've been sidetracked with some OTHER FLOWERS !

However, I can't tell you more today, but I promise you won't have to wait long...

Until then,

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

Saturday, already ? !

2010-05-07T22:57:00.003-07:00

How time flies !

Well, a little bit of this and that, this week, with...

7 new klosjes...

2 stitched blocks for the "Life is Beautiful" quilt...

The first Xmas "Wish Quilt" stitchery block completed, and the 2nd one started...

And a "homework" that I brought back from Cyprus
;>)
Actually, I was lucky enough to get some "private workshops" from Valentina, who decided I needed to practice machine piecing (you know I'm a handpiecer, don't you?)
-she's such a good teacher- and the first exercise was "Double Four Patch", a rather simple pattern but yet very effective. So, here is "Fields of Gold", as I named it (I love giving names to my quilts)... It still needs a border, and I chose a lovely rusty red fabric .

I'll piece that border very soon, Vali, I promise.

Next exercise is ... surprise ! HeeHee... My fabrics are ready for cutting,

and all I can tell you is the name for that one : "Murano".

Wait and see...

Until then, enjoy your sewing, my friends !

;>)

Flowers Wednesday - (belated) update nr.2

2010-05-06T07:15:00.003-07:00

Here's one flower from my growing stack of hexies...

I have noticed a tendency to keep basting hexies without piecing the flowers together, so I'll have to improve on that. However, one thing that will remain unchanged is the FUN I'm having, while piecing those cuties!

;>)

Happy 1st of May ! ;>)

2010-05-01T02:55:00.003-07:00

Starting a Garden...

2010-04-27T22:50:00.003-07:00

When seeing this picture in the last "QuiltsJapan" magazine, my fingers were itching to start a new Flowers Garden, and I knew it had to be in that colors scheme. I just LOVE the soft and fresh look of it...

I know this will be a very long term project, as I've got so many casseroles on the stove, so I decided to subscribe to KAREN's idea of piecing at least one flower each Wednesday...

Here's the sidebar logo, designed by Valentina

And here is the very start of my version. I'm using 1" hexagon paper pieces with soft red, blue and white shirtings. I don't know yet whether I'll be setting a (white) path around each flower, I'll just enjoy piecing some more flowers and set them aside, before deciding about the full pattern... and it just feels gooooood

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

;>)

Saturday...

2010-04-24T06:09:00.003-07:00

Spring day

and our garden is wearing a new "dress"...

Klosjes Day

16 new klosjes were made this week, and I can see the stack is growing slowly but surely,totalizing 116 up to now...

Life is beautiful

I really enjoy this project, too and stitched 3 new blocks this week. Pure bliss !

The "Wish Quilt"

Never too early starting to stitch for Christmas!

This project was designed by Bronwyn Hayes and published in

"Australian Homespun" magazines, last year.

So, here is the first (almost finished) stitchery of block Nr 1

Don't worry, Santa will get his feet and socks this weekend!

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

;>)

Note :
A heartful thank you for your lovely comments on this blog. I'm doing my best to answer everyone. Unfortunately, some friends are still set on a "no reply" mode, so I can' t email them my gratitude...

Home again... ;>)

2010-04-16T18:28:00.003-07:00

Back from a healthy break at our Belgian seaside,

where the weather was quite chilly and windy, but sunny,

allowing looong, invigorating walks along our beautiful littoral
...

Of course, some attractive shopping was due too !

When I saw this cute suitcase/box,

I just knew it was waiting for me...

;>)

Don't you think it's exactly what I needed to keep my

"Life is Beautiful" project in progress ?

Of course, lovely tin boxes were winking at me, as well,
And you all know I can't resist tin boxes !
I can always find a good reason to bring them home
;>)
Home.... where lovely mail was waiting for me !
You might remember I was the lucky winner of Lynette Anderson's
"Scandinavian Christmas" BOM pattern set giveaway
and it's already here, and sooo beautiful...

THANKS A BUNCH, dear Lynette,
this was so generous of you !
And what's new on the quilting/piecing/stitching front ???
- STANDBY -
Hey, but now I'm here, ready to catch up,
with hopefully some nice progress to report by next week

UNTIL THEN... ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

**********

"Be not afraid of going slowly, be only afraid of standing still"

- Chinese proverb -
******

HAPPY EASTER !

2010-04-02T09:39:00.003-07:00

Heartful wishes for a happy and sunny Easter

to all of you !

Traditionally, we celebrate Xmas at one of my Sils,

then New Year at the other one...

and Easter at our home.

It is always very funny,
and we use to be around 25 around the table.

Cooking already started today,

preparing fresh "pasta" all together
(remember I married an Italian ?)

and all sorts of yummy recipes,

decorating eggs for the kids, and baking.

We always enjoy those moments all together

celebrating Christ and the new season...

;>)

.............

Then I'll have a BLOG BREAK,

spending some time at the Belgian coast

("just the two of us" ;>)

But don't worry, my friends,

Pre-cut "klosjes" + the "Life is beautiful" project

are coming with me !

ENJOY YOUR STITCHES TOO!

;>)

Klosjes + this and that ...

2010-03-26T17:23:00.003-07:00

Time flies !

Yesss, it's Saturday again,

and I can add 10 new klosjes to the pile.

Less than previous weeks indeed,

but I've got some other cuties "on the stove"...

Such a beautiful name for a new project, started this week !

Helen Stubbings really created a gorgeous quilt.

You can also follow other friends' progress by visiting

Annelies Blog

(check also the names list on her sidebar)

A friend of mine also reminded me of an "oldie"

that I handpieced some time ago, and needing some nice handquilting ...

next grand kid could be happy cuddling under it,
don't you think ?

;>)

THANKS FOR YOUR VISIT
ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

Happy Spring !

2010-03-21T04:21:00.003-07:00

How wonderful those miracles of nature !

I brought this Jasmin from CYPRUS, a few weeks ago

(Thanks, Yaya !)

when visiting my dear friend Valentina ...

and look at its new leaves already !

Soon it will move to our sunny porch,

and a sweet perfume will fill our garden

;>)

This one came back from Norway, 2 years ago,

when I visited May Britt

The main plant was in her sewing room,

and already belonged to her mother, before...

And finally, this block I made last year

(together with 15 other ones)

and this reminds me that I should piece that quilt together!

("An Angels Story" - Anni Downs quilt pattern)

DON'T FORGET TO WATER YOUR PLANTS !

(and to finish your quilts! HeeHee...)

... ... ...

Saturday again ... ;>)

2010-03-19T19:11:00.003-07:00

with a wonderful book to discover,

a real enchanting reading ! ...

with 21 new "klosjes",

lovingly handpieced,

such precious moments,

allowing meditation, loving thoughts, wishes

and gratitudes

for my beloved, our wonderful kids,

and the moving news of a second grandkid

expected for next September!

;>)

ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND !

Saturday.... "Klosjes" Day !

2010-03-13T02:14:00.003-08:00

18 new "klosjes" this week

I've been busy, planting tulips in my "quilt garden",

but I'm planning some more "klosjes" today, for sure...

ENJOY YOUR STITCHING MY FRIENDS !

;>)

Spring is in the air...

2010-03-11T10:22:00.003-08:00

She says ! WOW, we'd better prepare...

soon the tulips will colour our gardens...

This reminds me of a gorgeous quilt made by LUCY

some years ago...

Of course I fell in love with that quilt,

and Lucy had generously shared her pattern with me...

Now it's about time to finish it !

Still 3 more blocks to applique, then piece the whole top together ,

and choose a nice border...

And you know what ? I'm still even more in love with it !

;>)

Yesterday, our grandson Andrea (5 years old) was spending the afternoon with me

here's his own contribution...

First finish in 2010...

2010-03-08T10:03:00.003-08:00

I devoted last January to stitchery,

and enjoyed so much making this

"Quilters Blessings" quilt.

(original design by Bea Galler of "Capricorn Quilts")

Giving it to the recipient was a real friendship blessing, as well.

Now that she's got it, I can post it on my blog.

Isn't it lovely, among the springy Lobelias in Cyprus ?

;>)

ENJOY YOUR SEWING

(and your "klosjes", eventually!)

Saturday/Spools Day - Zaterdag/Klosjes Dag

2010-03-05T14:02:00.003-08:00

DRRRRRUM ROLL, PLEASE !

Those cute Dutch "Klosjes" really hit the world,

and I want here to thank our Dutch sisters

for their unconditional help, support and blog posts, particularly :

Ingrid,
Peti,

Hennie,

Joke,

and all other members of that wonderful Dutch Klosjes Club.

Reading their blogs, or even just looking at their pictures

is so inspirational !

And so quite a number of very talented quilter friends

are now joining the FUN,

among them (hope I won't forget anyone) :

Ann,

Christine,

Janet

Karendianne,

Kathie

Julia,

Marieke,

Nat,

Pamina,

Ranette,

Robyn,

Shirley,

Sue Anne,

(some ladies might have contacted Valentina so we'll try

keeping our records alike)

So if you like spools/ klosjes,

those links above might show you many of those cuties today ...

And I'm going to go and visit them right now,

WooooHoooo, fun, fun, fun ...

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

PSSSST..... As to me, I made 23 of them, this week.

Grand total ---> 48

;>)

Pin and Needles...

2010-03-05T05:07:00.003-08:00

It's not a secret that I love pincushions,

especially BIG ones...

and this week I made a new one.

It's 7.5 inches from point to point,

and I filled it with lentils, so that it stays in place.

One side or the other,

depending how I feel...

;>)

A special thank you

to the lady who inspired me the pattern

(she will recognize herself)

Spools... Klosjes...

2010-03-03T10:35:00.003-08:00

Looks like many friends are tempted

with those cuties and I'm thrilled !

So, like my friend Valentina, and in order to answer many questions,

I just added some tutorial links on my sidebar.

Hoping this will help you...

Of course, please feel free to email me,

in case you need more details.

You will also notice that our spools might look slightly different,

as Valentina and I chose to cut our center square a little bigger,

(in this case : 1inch3/4, seam allowance included)

so that it doesn't look like a "bow-tie", rather a real spool.

This choice is up to you...

ENJOY YOUR "SPOOLING" / "KLOSJING"

and rendez-vous on Saturday !

;>)

Zaterdag = Klosjes Dag / Saturday = Spools Day

2010-02-27T10:13:00.003-08:00

Today, 17 new klosjes/spools happily joined

the 8 existing ones

TOTAL = 25

;>)

I'm really enjoying handpiecing these cuties,

using some repro. fabrics I've got on hand,

and mixing them together with some others...

One by one, one stitch at a time,

I'll reach the 600 I need,

I'm not in a hurry,

it's just relaxing and fun piecing....

Until next Saturday,

ENJOY YOUR STITCHING !

;>)

BACK FROM DREAMLAND ... ;>)

2010-02-25T23:53:00.003-08:00

When a very dear, heartful friend

invites you in her beautiful country
opening her home and
offering you her best, beautiful bedroom

to bring you into quilters heaven
and share a wonderful, unforgettable week together...

you just can't help being sooo grateful,
and happy,
and full of new ideas,
and projects,
and you feel such warmth at heart!

Wonderful country,
wonderful people,
wonderful quilts,
wonderful memories !

;>)

As promised,
I won't miss sharing some other happy pictures
in my next posts

I just need to sort them out,
and also come back to my senses,
after such a blessing
...........

THANKS FOR YOUR VISIT !

;>)

FLYING TO CYPRUS... ;>)

2010-02-15T08:45:00.003-08:00

Valentina ! Can you hear me my friend ?

I'm coming !

My suitcase is ready, filled with LOTS of stitcheries

and loads of projects and dreams !

I would never have imagined that quilting would

give me this wonderful opportunity to travel and visit

some friends, and I'm sooo grateful !

(If you listen to my music, you'll be convinced)

I'll be back in a week (maybe ? LOL)

with many pictures and stories to tell,

;>)

Until then.....

Take care, Enjoy your sewing !

HAPPY VALENTINE'S ;>)

2010-02-14T01:51:00.003-08:00

My best wishes to all lovers !

Yesterday was "Klosjes/Spools Day"

I didn't piece a lot of them... Yet I did cut a mountain !

So now I'm ready to make good progress

;>)

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

"ZATERDAG = KLOSJES DAG !"...

2010-02-05T09:56:00.003-08:00

... Or, if you prefer :

"SATURDAY = SPOOLS DAY !"

;>)

Some time ago, I discovered THIS Dutch blog

and I was sooo much inspired...

Can you imagine that Ingrid is only piecing by hand

No sewing machine with her (here's a girl to my heart!)

Among all the beautiful quilts and projects, were those tiny spools.

These cuties measure (approx) 2.5" finished size

and I'm sure they are going to make such gorgeous scrappy quilts !

I couldn't resist having a try, and here are my first attempts...

Together with my friend Valentina,

we were VERY tempted starting such a (long term) project,

so we decided to contact Ingrid for permission

to use her idea...

Well, not only did she agree with such kindness

and enthusiasm, but she welcomes us into her virtual

"Spools Project Group"

Quilters are such wonderful ladies, all over the world!

Our Dutch friends are devoting one day a week

to this adventure (guess which one ? LOL)

I bet I'm gonna write about spools

for a veeeeeery long time!

********************

Latest news in Blogland :

Valentina (Cyprus) just started a BLOG.

Knowing her, I can promise you some very inspiring posts !

THANKS for paying a visit and leave a little welcome note

*********

ENJOY YOUR SEWING MY FRIENDS

;>)

BLOG INSPIRATION...

2010-01-15T23:55:00.003-08:00

Do you know Quilting Jeannet ?

Well her blog is full of inspiration and worth the visit...

Moreover, she's having a lovely giveaway, right now.

don't miss that one !

;>)

DO YOU CROSSTITCH ???

2010-01-02T12:50:00.003-08:00

Well I do..... at least I'm starting to,

and I just visited a lovely blog,

where Kristi, at the CALICO PRAIRIE

is having a wonderful giveaway.

DON'T MISS IT !

;>)

HEARTFUL WISHES...

2009-12-30T14:49:00.003-08:00

2010 is just at our doors...

and like all years before, we shared our joys, hopes

and quilty projects with a never-failing enthusiasm.

We started many of them, exchanging ideas,

Most of you reached your goals,

while the turtle-me... finished 2 mini's ;>)

I wish to thank you, dear friends,

for reading my blog, adding some friendly comments,

for emailing me, and even making me dance in my kitchen

with the lovely treats you sent to me,

for writing your own blogs, with fantastic tutorials,

with lovely BOM's for free,

for creating groups to sustain everyone,

All these blessings were a constant inspiration to me.

We also shared some worries, and even some sorrows,

with a never-failing care about a friend in pain.

So many stitches, in thoughts with each other...

I wish to thank you, dear friends,

for this virtual bee.

So far, yet so close, because quilters are a big family.

I'm closing the door to 2009,

waving goodbye to those ups & downs.

My door to 2010 is wide open,

with, as usual great expectations ! ;>)

I wish you everything you dream about,

in the secret of your heart.

I wish you health, peace & prosperity.

I wish you to be always young at heart,

And above all, I wish you

LOVE.

HAPPY NEW YEAR !

BONNE ANNEE!

;>)

With a special little candle, lit for a special friend.

She will recognize herself...

SPECIAL MAIL...

2009-12-21T14:51:00.003-08:00

Dear friends,

from the bottom of my heart,

I wish you all a very merry Christmas !

May you live these particular days in family,

enjoying the simple things,

in peace and love for each other.

Very heartfully,

Nadine

;>)

DELECTABLE... BISCUITS, SALAD, AND BLOCKS ! ;>)

2009-12-20T02:56:00.003-08:00

Passing on...

What a treat, when Laura my youngest daughter (21)

asked me to teach her making our traditional Christmas biscuits !

I was sooo happy, and she was very willing to learn.

;>)

Nice result, isn't it ?

I think the tradition will keep going without problem !

Always looking for new recipes,

particularly at this moment of the year,

when yummy menus and buffets are getting organized,

I discovered THIS RECIPE from Nan, at "Pots and Pins"

and wanted to give it a try...

Oh My ! Sooo easy, and the taste is just... delectable !

Give it a try, too. You won't regret it !

THANKS, Nan, for this wonderful recipe ;>)

(Oh, and by the way, Nan's other recipes AND quilts are worth it, too!)

Last, but not least, I treated myself with 12 wonderful

Snowladies

(scroll down to see them all in details)

These are cute, funny stitcheries that will become

a Xmas quilt for 2010 (never too early!)

I intend to stitch one - maybe 2 - each month

so that I can piece them together and quilt them on time...

(turtle as I am ! ;>)

Have a wonderful Sunday,

Enjoy your sewing !

Nadine

(from snoooooowy Belgium ... LOVE IT !)

WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS...

2009-11-29T10:09:00.003-08:00

So here we are, 1st Advent Sunday already...

Where did time fly ? This year seemed so short to me !

Here is the Advent calendar that I stitched and pieced

in the last few weeks.

It's very meaningful to me, as the making of it helped me

to overcome some bad moments,

and these stitcheries truly brought smiles and peace in my heart.

****

"Self expression heals the wounded heart"

****

Stay tuned, I'll be back !

In the meantime, enjoy your sewing, my friends...

;>)

A NICE GIVEAWAY !

2009-11-27T06:17:00.003-08:00

Margaret of "Konstant Kaos" Blog, is having a nice giveaway

for a quilt magazine + 2010 quilter's diary

Please, go and check her blog,

You won't regret it !

;>)

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL...

2009-11-20T16:20:00.003-08:00

Some quilts just draw your attention,

only by their name.

That's what happened to me,

after the difficult moments I recently lived...

When I discovered that gorgeous new pattern

from HELEN STUBBINGS,

it couldn't have come at a better moment in my life.

It's red and warm, like love.

It's full of cute stitcheries & quotes

about the beauty of life,

come rain or come shine...

Moreover, Helen is offering a complete

pattern set, as a giveaway.

Wouldn't it be GREAT being the lucky winner ?

She also asks for a favourite quote that

the beauty of life inspires to us.

So, here is mine :

Life is a gift we are given each and every day,

that is why it is called THE PRESENT...

***********

A HEARTFUL THANK YOU

2009-11-15T15:39:00.003-08:00

Dear friends,

Your comments, emails, phone calls, and prayers

were a true blessing.

I wish hereby to tell you how deeply I appreciated

your friendship and care

One day after another,

One stitch at a time,

I'll soon be back with some quilty news

Take care,

ENJOY YOUR SEWING!

BLOG BREAK

2009-10-28T20:51:00.003-07:00

This 28th October,

early in the morning,

my father passed away.

May he rest in peace...

15th EUROPEAN PATCHWORK MEETING - VAL D'ARGENT - FRANCE

2009-09-23T21:25:00.003-07:00

Helloooooo, there !

Still alive.... and still playing the "globe trotter",

Aaaah, retirement is a real treat !

I was lucky enough to attend my first BIG quilt show.

Oh, it was such a wonderful week ! Pure delight in quilters world ...
Better than words, here's a slide show,with (some) of my favourite pictures,e.g. Dutch quilts, and also those from Hungary & New Zealand (special guests), not to forget a -Yoko Saito, 30 years of quilts -retrospective, and soooo many, many others...

I was also speechless and much moved, when seeing the Amish quilts(these were antique quilts from a private collection). The Amish works are so special to me...

Of course, I dived into the shopping mall, with 146 European quiltshop owners - Aaaaarghghgh !... but that's another story, for my next post.

(you can click on any picture, for a zzzzoooooom)

ENJOY !

;>)

Looks like I've got some problems to upload my slideshow on my blog

(still have to learn/practice, HeeHee..)

Please, click on "view all images", hereunder...

THANKS for your visit !

SUNSHINE & SHADOW - STEP ONE -

2009-08-18T22:23:00.003-07:00

So I decided that Sunday would be the day for starting with this quilt, and carefully read JERI 's instructions sheets, starting with choosing the 13 colors I needed, among the 18 ones she had sent to me (this was not so easy, as they're all so beautiful).

Jeri cleverly divided the quilt in 9 sections, the first step being the 4 corners - each corner composed of a 10 x 10 squares...

The pictures below are showing the upper right corner.

I cut ten 2,5" strips, each of a different color, corresponding to my choice, and pieced them together.
Then I cut 2,5" strips accross them

and started to arrange them, unpicking at the top...

until I reached this arrangement (which was half the final big square I needed)...

Then I completed each row, using some of the unpicked squares...

Back to machine piecing, watching carefully to the matching seams, and...

T A D A A A A ! ;>)

Happy dance, here is my first upper right corner...

Now, on to the 3 other ones, before reaching Step 2.

If the mountain looks too high to climb,

divide your efforts into several achievable goals.

Sooner or later, you'll reach the top...

;>)

OH HAPPY DAY.... ;>)

2009-08-14T10:03:00.003-07:00

"Heaven, I'm in Heaven...."

(love that song!)

This morning my door bell rang,

and I knew this had to be a package of happiness !

;>)

It was a BIG box, coming from JERI

Lookie, lookie, all those wonderful solids (22 different colors!)

that will soon become that "Sunshine & Shadow" quilt that I love so much

(see picture on my blog header)

Jeri will make it with me, so she wrote step-by-step instruction sheets, and she cleverly labelled each color with a number, so that we don't mix anything...

Dear Jeri, thanks to you, one of my quilty dreams will soon come true,

and I'm sooo grateful !

;>)

KEEP YOUR FEET ON THE GROUND...

2009-08-11T11:30:00.003-07:00

Last year, I was lucky enough to visit May Britt, in Norway (such nice memories!)

One day, she told me :

"you can dive into my stash and, please, help yourself"

Boy, I was in quilters heaven !

I cut little bits and pieces, including a piece of that cheater fabric, above.

It really fascinated me... Not only for the colors, the nice blocks arrangement, the scrappy, vintage look,but also the words on it. (click on the picture)

Back home, I searched the Web to find more of it, but couldn't...

Yet, I wanted to make something simple out of it, as a memory.

I kept it in my sewing box for a long time, until this weekend,

when I decided to make this humble wallhanging.

I just added the black fabric, it didn't need more. I know, it looks more like a table mat,

but I wanted to cut the least possible out of the fabric...

Now it's hanging above my computer screen, and I'm happy.

"Keep your feet on the ground, Nadine !"

(especially when you look at sooo many beautiful quilts in Blogland
BUT

"Reach for the stars !"

anyway.... with Love, Wisdom and Virtue

BECAUSE

"Success is a journey, not a destination"

;>)

I' M BAAAACK..... ;>)

2009-08-02T21:34:00.003-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I came here to blab, isn't it ? These vacations were certainly needed, after last June sad events, and were highly appreciated... We spent 2 weeks in (hot, hot) Spain (definitely waaay too hot for me) and 2 weeks in wonderful

Provence (France) , where we'll certainly go back

(actually, we already booked for next year, HeeHee).

And what did this silly quilter do in a month,

as she forgot home all her well prepared sewing things ???
Well, she (almost) cried...
and then she read, and read A LOT !

I won't bother you with too many pictures, except quilty ones, beginning with

(1)

this one hereunder, for which I'd need your HELP

I didn't see that quilt in Spain, but stumbled upon the picture

while browsing Spanish blogs.

No name, nor designer... nothing but a picture.

I emailed the blogging lady, but never got any answer. Sooo....

does this pattern speak to you, eventually ?

* * * * * * * * * *

(2)

While visiting a small Spanish quilt show, I was amazed with this quilt.

It's a nine patch design, with a Japanese folding technique

and the story behind it is quite funny,
as it was made by a man (the quiltshop owner's hubby) !

Interesting and beautiful, isn't it ?
I was kindly given the pattern - another one on my "must-do" list...
;>)

* * * * * * * * * *
(3)

Back to normal, I was sooo happy to sew again, and finally decided on
my "Little Blue Birds" borders...
which was not so easy, as I wanted a vintage look,

but I happily found
that "grandma's aprons" repro fabric on the web (E-quilters.com)
There will be a surprise wink in this top,
you'll see it soon...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

(4)

My next big project will be that gorgeous

Sunshine & Shadow

that you can see on my header...

I'll be doing it together with JERI and JOANNA

(can't wait !)

I'm still catching up with Blogland posts, and see that

you've all been sewing treasures,
congratulations to you all !

I'll be back soon,
Thanks for your visit
;>)

WE' RE ON VACATIONS ;>)

2009-06-28T05:13:00.003-07:00

Back by end of July...

'til then, take care, and by all means...

ENJOY YOUR SEWING !

;>)

STARTING A NEW CHAPTER...

2009-06-20T22:01:00.003-07:00

Starting a new page in your quilt journal,
share it with friends, is such a blessing,
and there's nothing like some new (long-term) projects
to focus your mind on the bright side of life...

;>)

First of all, look at my blog header.
You might remember I saw that beauty in a French quiltshop in Paris
and I shared a picture with you...
Well, Jeri loves it, too!
So she kindly proposed to design the pattern, calculate the yardage,
and help me find the right solids color palette. Isn't that sweet, indeed ?
Sharon will be joining us, as well (after her big moving).

*****

Some weeks ago, I posted a comment to Rae Ann ,
about her lovely 30's repro fabrics quilts...
She proposed to share a lovely pieced/applique pattern with me,
(and some of those 30's repro fabrics, that I love)
Ain't I lucky ?

*****

And here's the BIG fellow that will keep me busy
for the coming year (s ?)
Actually, it's the reproduction of an Antique Quilt
that Guute recently adapted with EQ6.
Originally, she intended to share her pattern on her blog,
but the demands of enthusiastic quilter friends were so numerous (more than 100!)
that she decided to create a Yahoo Group (see the logo on my sidebar).
You're all welcome to join the fun!

(Guute is posting both in Dutch and English)
I'll be starting handpiecing mine by end of July, when returning from vacations.
This will give me time to think about my colors scheme,
and collect some repro fabrics...

*****

"Those good old hexies" are another long-term,
handpiecing project that I love.
I've been part of The Great Heaxagon Quilt Along for some months.
This is a fantastic hexies lovers blog, created by sweet Robyn
If you love hexies and got some spare minutes,
don't miss a visit, it's full of inspiration!
I'm using bright K.Fasset fabrics, on a black background,
and will bring my tin box with me on vacations...

*****

Aaah, my sweet little blue fella's!
This lovely quilt was designed by the talented Nanette, from Freda's Hive
(pattern available on her Etsy shop, see her sidebar).
Mine is just about being a flimsy, and I love it.
You'll soon be seeing it ;>)

*****

So that makes 3 new projects, plus 2 "oldies"...

This is quite a lot to "cook" in the coming days/weeks/months,

but my stove's ready!

Ain't that quilt therapy,

then what is it ?

ENJOY YOUR SEWING!

;>)

PS : special thoughts for some special friends.

Though not mentionned in this post, you will recognize yourself,

and you know you're in my heart...

GRATITUDE...

2009-06-18T19:40:00.003-07:00

Your comments, emails and prayers,

were a blessing and helped us going through

the difficult moments that we recently lived.

THANKS, my friends, from the bottom of my heart.

BLOG BREAK....

2009-06-13T00:40:00.003-07:00

Early this morning, Nicolas - my father-in-law,

passed away

after a long, courageous battle against cancer...

He leaves a beloved wife,

6 children,

18 grand & great-grand children.

§§§§§§§§§§§§

Rest in Peace, dear Papa,

Thanks for all the love you gave us,

and for all that we learned from you...

THREE SMALL HOUSES...

2009-06-02T21:02:00.003-07:00

all in a row,

were started long time ago,

their maker, who found them by accident,

decided time had come to build an extent.

Home, Sweet Home, she said

Another Ufo I'll bring to an end!

;>)

Want a funny saying ?

People are living longer than ever before, a phenomenon made undoubtedly necessary by the 30-year mortgage...

(Doug Larson)

A SMALL FINISH...

2009-05-28T07:09:00.003-07:00

Or how to recycle an orphan quilt block into a cute wallhanging...

;>)

I just had to finish the appliqued flowers, and experienced 3D applique

with some tiny beads embellishments.

It's only 12 inches square, but at least it's a finish

and it feels gooooooood !

Now back to my blue birds BIG quilt piecing!

(seems I'm quite obsessed with birds, these days...)

Thanks for your visit,

ENJOY YOUR QUILTING

;>)

A little saying for today ?

God gives every bird its food,

but He does not throw it into its nest.

(JC Holland)

I LOVE PARIS......

2009-05-16T04:09:00.003-07:00

Last January, our children spoiled us with a 4 days trip to Paris,

as a retirement present.

We could choose the dates, so we opted for May,

hoping our stay would be sunny...

Well it was not sunny, but Paris is Paris :

one of the most beautiful cities in the world

;>)

We stayed in a very comfy hotel, and decided to visit

some of the many picturesque places, such as

L'Ile de la Cité, walking along les Quais de la Seine...

up to the Tour Eiffel...

Hmmmm...Stormy weather (but yummy restaurant ! HeeHee)

The day after, we went to the splendid Musée du Louvre, where we spent a whole day...

I think it takes 3 days to visit the whole museum,

so we decided to part, hubby visiting the (big) sculptures section,

while I opted for the Impressionist painters...

then sharing our feelings and emotions on a lovely terrace...

We also went to the beautiful Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral...

Of course I had planned a visit to a famous quilt shop!

So we went to Le Rouvray, just behind Notre Dame...

Such a pleasant and welcoming shop !

with beautiful fabrics, among some antiques

old quilts, so beautifully hand quilted...

and also gorgeous quilt tops. This one was was my absolute favorite one. I have to make such a quilt !

Of course, I couldn't leave empty handed, HeeHee..... And I chose a fabrics kit, to make a throw in sunny, colourful Provence toiles.

The pattern is very simple (sometimes these are the best ones) : four patches, with marbled yellow connecting blocks, and a beautiful border.

Hmmmm, I'm in the mood for starting it right now...

;>)

THANKS, kido's... you really spoiled us !

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY !

2009-05-08T14:06:00.003-07:00

My story with Mom is a sad one... I missed her all my life,

as she was very often absent, living in Congo with my father, who worked there...

I've got very few pictures of her, but I could save these 2.

They're very small, blurred and aged, but I cherish them very much.

Mom passed away 15 years ago, and I still terribly miss her.

However, she's with me every day, in a way...

She's my Guardian Angel.

1960 in Congo - She was 30 -

and with me, in 1955 (she was 26, and I was 4)

To all mothers,

Some flowers, with my heartful wishes....

and a wink...

;>)

IT'S OOOOONLY ONE BLOCK A MONTH ! ;>)

2009-05-05T13:44:00.003-07:00

Hi, there ! ;>)

It's been a while, isn't it ? ...

I'm sorry.

Seems that retirement has made a laaaazy blogger of me : soooo many things I wanted to do, and see, and read, and try... on my "Once I've got time" list !

Not to mention Dear Hubby's own list - actually we both retired at the same time... and can I leave that darling alone with his own list, tell me ??? HeeHee...

We had (and still have) to find a new rythm, new routines.

Yet things are slowly getting back to normal... which means I started a new BOM with some French ladies. It's a huuuuuge project (I love these! Maybe because of the challenge included ?)

The name is Sally Post Floral Sampler

from Sentimental Stitches

It's bright, it's cheerful, it's pink, red, green (with a touch of yellow)...

It's ME !

There are 36 blocks in total (but I'll only make 25)

The first 12 blocks are FREE, and then you have to order the others...

Here's my first block

and my fabrics choice

So far, so good...
Wish me luck !

(perseverance, perseverance...)
;>)

A QUOTE FOR TODAY :

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS IS DOTTED WITH MANY TEMPTING PARKING PLACES

(and pot holes, too ! HeeHee...)

A CHANCE TO WIN ! ! !

2009-04-11T05:18:00.003-07:00

WOW, WOW ! Pigtale & Quilts is having a wonderful giveaway !

Quick, go and check it... you won't resist signing in.

(and, please, tell her I'm sending you, thanks ! )

;>)