Sunlight Through My Windows

A Look at My 2020 Projects

2021-04-09T22:14:00.000-04:00

Since we were under a quarantine or as I like to say "hibernation" order from our state on and off in 2020, I tried to keep fairly busy. It wasn't always easy as my mind was drawn to so many problems swirling around in the world. My knitting projects were put in the closet somewhere after April. I just didn't have peace of mind to concentrate on it. Sewing and machine embroidery seemed more doable.

These solid colors will match my grandmother's prints from the 30's and 40's that I am going to use in a quilt.

These Christmas prints are from a box of fabric my mother saved that were her mothers. My grandmother and other relatives worked in Botany fabric mills in Passaic, New Jersey.

A new small wallhanging for Valentine's Day and spring. Machine embroidery pattern is from Sweet Pea Designs in Austrailia.

This adorable hat is made with the softest fleece - modeled by my grandson.

This is a test sew of a free pattern, the Laundry Day Tee from Love Notions. I loved the cowl neck, but really disliked the shirt fabric. For a knit, it didn't have much stretch. This pattern is wildly popular with those who follow Love Notions - especially being a free pattern - but I don't care for the fit on me. The top has a close fitting bodice and swing on the bottom. It reminds me of the old baby doll pjs. Oh well, I tried!

I purchased a serger tote bag pattern that not only showed you how to make a tote bag, but taught you how to use serger stitches to decorate it. www.gailpatrice.com

The quilting bee I belong to got together and made a quilt for the Quilts of Valor project. The quilts that are donated to this organization are given to veterans to honor them and thank them for their service to our country.

Embroidering kitchen towels is a great way to try out new designs.

This is a block from the vintage Christmas quilt I started. All the prints belonged to my grandmother, Irene.

Masks.

More steps for the mystery quilt. These colors are so happy.

All done! I used a 3-step zig zag stitch to quilt this crib-size quilt.

Hand sewing the binding on the back of the quilted wall hanging.

We love to collect Blenko glass and it goes so well with our new quilt.

A new embroidery project from Sweet Pea in Australia.

I I found a lone star quilt pattern that was made with random fabrics rather than a set sequence of colors and I had to try it. Its a free pattern from Jordan Fabrics in Oregon. I purchased a pretty lavender flannel to back it, but haven't felt like quilting it yet.

This is a small purse made with a machine embroidery file. After embroidering all of the panels, you sew it all together on a standard sewing machine.

This is the large size of the embroidered bag.

"Take Note" pouch pattern by Crafted by Leanne.

A fall quilt along! One more quilt top waiting to be quilted.

I tested this new pattern "Clearly Organized" for www.aroundthebobbin.com

Embroidered mini bags - design from Urban Threads embroidery.

A "Teloujay" crossbody purse by Country Cow.

Pattern from Bagstock designs.

Sunshine purse - design from Bagstock Designs in India.

Rainbow zippers and zipper pulls are so pretty.

Christmas gift for my daughter, a poppy wall hanging. This was made on the embroidery machine. Another great Sweet Pea design.

Another great pattern from Sweet Pea.

This is a top I sewed from a Love Notions pattern out of a soft waffle knit.

These next 3 photos are of free standing lace ornaments I made on the embroidery machine. Water soluble stabilizer is used and then washed away when completed.

These mason jar designs are some of my favorites!

December sky.

2020 was quite a year. Hope you enjoyed taking a look at some of the projects that kept me occupied. Here's to a happy, healthy 2021!

Be blessed,

Pat

Remembering 2019

2021-03-07T20:34:00.000-05:00

Another year begins (2019) and I'm still committed to using up fabric I have accumulated over the past maybe 10 years or so. Besides sewing scraps I knitted quite a bit too.

This is the finished sweater I knitted for a friend's baby girl.

I knitted a "bun" hat for a relative.

And here is my first attempt at color work knitting. Knitting with 2 colors at the same time was something I had wanted to try for a long time. Kind of fun, but if you don't leave enough slack, your hat can get pretty tight!

I fell in love with the colors in this ball of yarn!

On to the next sock!

Finishing up this quilt with a flannel backing. Here I am hand stitching the binding on the back.

All done! Such a warm, cozy quilt.

This pattern is "Kira" by GE Designs.

Another few blocks for the Teacup Mystery Quilt along.

Starting a new mystery quilt along! I enjoy these mystery quilt alongs called Scrap Dance Mysteries.

You can find them on www.frommycarolinahome.com

Such a cute little sweater!

LOVE these colors! The pattern is called Close to You and can be found on Ravelry.com More photos can be found below of this shawl.

I tested a backpack pattern for Lisa at Around the Bobbin. This is a winner! Great, well-written

pattern. www.aroundthebobbin.com

Another way to use up some of my scraps has been machine embroidery projects. Here I'm starting a wallhanging project - design by Sweet Pea.

This is the Close to You shawl that can be found on Ravelry.com

Another Scrap-dance Mystery Quilt Along by www.frommycarolinahome.com

I used a 3 step zig zag stitch in rows for the quilting.

"Pint-sized Parking" pattern from www.atkinsondesigns.com

"Pint-sized Parking" This was such a fun project - a little challenging sewing the foam in spots but I love the fabric and this is such a unique basket. Pattern from: www.atkinsondesigns.com

I started knitting a vest.

I won a Schmetz Needle FaceBook Live giveaway!

This is a fall table runner using scraps - old and new.

I started to run out of this yarn and spent months searching for a reasonable look alike so that I could finish this shawl. I found some yarn that is a little heavier than this one, but it will work for the last of the border.

I decided to use up the rest of this wonderful border print to make myself a fall Essential Tote. Pattern from www.aroundthebobbin.com

This little tech organizer bag was another test project for Lisa at www.aroundthebobbin.com. What a fun project! I had never sewn mesh before.

This is a shot of the recessed zipper on an Essential Tote bag I made for someone.

I made a t-shirt on using my serger.

Knit pumpkins - these were fun to make!

Essential Tote - pattern from www.aroundthebobbin.com

Fleece hats for all the boys in the family.

Quilted coasters and hotpad made with scraps.

My Christmas socks are finished!

And so, another busy year filled with fabric stash busting, learning new skills and finishing projects started a year or so before. 2019 sure was a fruitful year!

Blessings,

Pat

Remembering 2018 - July - December

2021-01-20T16:54:00.000-05:00

And here they are - my projects from July - December 2018.

This was a test knit for a designer's new pattern.

I taught myself how to paper piece a quilt block by watching some great tutorials.

Learning machine embroidery applique.

I started working on a a mystery teacup quilt along from the blog "From My Carolina Home".

A Shabby Fabrics kit.

I sewed a table runner for my daughter in law.

Some of my favorite colors. The back of this quilt is flannel. The first time I backed a quilt with flannel and I absolutely love it.

The pattern is "Kira" by GE Designs.

This is a knit hotpad out of cotton yarn.

Made a fabric basket and napkins for a friend.

This was a machine embroidery that looks like hand cross stitch.

Embroidered cotton napkins.

I knit a sweater for a friend's baby.

An "in the hoop" coaster.

A table runner made by following my favorite cathedral window tutorial by Shabby Fabrics. This is her most current tutorial that had featured an American flag design.

Remembering 2018 (January - July)

2020-09-06T19:13:00.000-04:00

Yes, you read that right! Since my last post was all about my projects in 2017, I figured I better take a few moments and share my 2018 highlights so that I can continue on and share 2019!!

Crazy, but I want to publish this post as it serves as a bit of a record of many of my projects. Its September 6, 2020 and I'm still editing it!!

You might be thinking, why bother? I know, but I love seeing all of the photos of projects and our garden on the blog.

As I looked through 2016, 2017 and 2018 photos, I'm amazed at how much I've forgotten that I've made. Most of the forgotten things are ones that have been given away to friends, etc.

Seems like I was very busy in 2018! Since this post is getting pretty long, I'm going to put the second half of 2018 in another post.

This, below, is the beginning of a scrap busting blanket. With 3 yarns crocheted together, its pretty heavy. I was busy with other projects at the time and I was finding that my hands were hurting from struggling with the larger crochet hook and pulling the 3 threads through. I'm not sure if I will pick it up again and try to work on it. I'll have to see what 2020 brings lol.

**Edited to say that I gave up and decided to gift all of the yarn set aside for this project to some women in the area who were looking for yarn to teach their grandchildren with.

I had, for a long time, wished to make a "temperature blanket" Have you heard of them? You record each day's high temperature and crochet or knit 1 row in the color that represents that day's temp.
I chose Vanna's Choice acrylic yarn for mine in the colors below. I started out ok, but I stopped the end of June I believe. I'll be picking it up some day, as I think it will be a fun blanket to have around. There are temperature records on a few websites that you can access for many, many years. Like your birth year, etc. so I'm not worried about not being able to pick up where I left off and get all the correct temperatures to finish it.

Can you see the change in stitch for every 1st day of the month? I thought that would be a good way to help find each month when looking at the finished blanket.

Those dark purple rows were right after a blizzard we had in January of 2018.

Well - I am editing this post on June 27, 2020 and this Temperature Afghan is still waiting for me to feel like continuing it. Someday I'll pick it up again - really!

This shawl I knit was a test project for a designer who lives in Austrailia. The colors look more blue on the screen than the shawl really is. Its actually more blue/green. Its a nice shawl, but not one I'd do again. I think the name was Dresdener.

This is a cathedral window table runner I made - totally on my sewing machine. I followed a Jenny Doan Missouri Star Quilt Co tutorial on Youtube to make this. I put cotton batting between the front and the backing, which I'm a little sorry I did. The runner is heavy - however, it does protect my coffee table really well!

The table runner below was a quilt as you go project. When you are finished adding your top fabrics - the project is already quilted and you just have to trim the edges and put a binding on.

This is a "Fallen Cloud" shawl that I knit. I made at least 3 of these. I absolutely love this design. Its a shame that it gets so boring near the end of making it - the long rows of plain knitting get tiresome.

These placemats and matching table runner were also quilt as you go projects.

This is a hat I knit for my grandson, Nathan.

I participated in the testing of a new pattern by Lisa of Around the Bobbin. The casserole holder was a fun project. I used fabric to match the fabric basket which was also a test project I did for Lisa.

This knitting project came out very pretty. The yarn was very soft. These are fingerless mitts.

Ricky Timms "Convergence" quilt. I took borrowed a copy of this book from the local library and made this quilt out of Jinny Beyer fabrics that I had bought at her Virginia store.

The instructions for this quilt are amazing and if you follow Ricky's directions and especially his tips, it will come out perfectly. There are very precise instructions for pressing (rather than ironing) the very narrow strips. I have yet to quilt this one because I can't decide how I want to quilt it.

I made 3 of these chubby charmer tote bags. They are HUGE!!

Another "Fallen Cloud" shawl.

Ah, spring!

We headed down to Florida in the early spring and it was cold on the way

Nice and warm in Florida though...

This is the Banana River in Cocoa Beach.

I purchased some yarn at a yarn store in Cocoa, Florida. (Its 2020 as I edit this and I have yet to finish this shawl! I ran out of the raspberry color for the edging and had to go buy something that matched fairly well)

I found my youngest son's baby blanket and after making some repairs and sewing on a new satin binding I gave it to his baby boy :)

These are from a test of fabric baskets that I did for www.aroundthebobbin.com . Lisa has some great patterns offered on her website.

I made a quilt for my youngest grandson's 2nd birthday.

During the winter of 2018 I worked on finishing "unfinished objects". This was a print that looked like a pieced quilt.

This was another "UFO" that needed to be finished. I had put together this lone star many years ago, just to see if I could do it. The directions were from Quilt in a Day. I then purchased some iron on appliques and added a border. I was so glad to have finished this project.

I tested the Wild at Heart shawl. I loved knitting this shawl and hope to use the pattern again.

I participated in a mystery quilt along by Carole Carter at www.frommycarolinahome.com

Carole's scrap dance mysteries are a lot of fun.

I decided one day that I really needed to learn how to use the embroidery function of the sewing machine that my mother had given me back in 2005 or so. Its a Babylock Esante ESE2. This was one of the first items I embroidered with it.

I had the opportunity to test the pattern for this silicone oven mit. I was surprised at how easy it was to sew through silicone. The pattern and silicone mits can be purchased at www.aroundthebobbin.com

And there we have the first half of 2018!

Hopefully I can upload the second half of 2018 within a shorter amount of time than it has taken me to do the first half!

Till then, remember, there's always hope!

Pat

Almost 2 Years Later!

2019-07-23T16:41:00.002-04:00

This is kind of crazy, but instead of deleting this post I started in 2018 about what I worked on in 2017, I've decided to publish it. I worked on some pretty neat projects in 2017 and its fun to look back on them all. Have a look!

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It's been just over a year since I've posted to my blog, and to get started again, I'm going to share some highlights from 2017.

I knitted these socks early in the year using Patons Kroy yarn. They're probably the warmest socks I own. Not as soft as other wool available, but its fun to wear something you've made.

I don't go overboard decorating for holidays, but I do try to change out my vase of flowers near the front door in the living room. I love those tiny battery operated lights that have a timer so that they come on every evening if you wish.

Sometime during the winter of 2017 I became brave enough to quilt my batik braid quilt. I really love the wavy lines created with the aid of my sewing machine's walking foot. The link for the pattern is here: Sultry Project Sheet on Moda Bakeshop If you scroll to near the bottom of their page you will find a PDF sheet to download with all the instructions.

This shawl is called Fallen Cloud. I decided to try knitting it with an inexpensive acrylic yarn to see if I could actually knit the cables with lace in between before purchasing a more expensive merino wool that I really want to make it in. It came out great - except the acrylic doesn't really block well and so the finished size was smaller than what it should have been. But it fit a relative great so I gave it away.

I crocheted this afgan for someone who requested a large, soft blanket - oh my, these things take forever! My grandmother used to make these for family - she would sit and listen to the TV and crochet endlessly. I used Vanna's Choice acrylic which proved to be soft yet sturdy.

We had purchased our home in the fall of 2016 and finally planted the front garden in the spring of 2017. The center pink rose tree and surround flowers were a gift from the neighbors on our street. They wanted us to pick out something in memory of my Mom who was promoted to Heaven in January of 2017. Mom loved pink - and pink roses.

I can't believe how tiny all our plants were when we first planted them!

While hunting for garden ideas on Pinterest, I saw how you could use blocks to make curvy edging.

Love the Russian Sage.

Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea

I LOVE fabric baskets and boxes...
I believe this is the tutorial I followed to make it. Fabric Basket with Handles Tutorial
I bought the outer fabric on fabric.com to make valances for my kitchen window and patio door. I had some left over and used some for this basket which sits on my coffee table in the living room, just outside the kitchen.

While making this shawl out of a cotton/nylon blend by Cotton Fair, I hated it. However, it has become a fun summer shawl to wear - it matches many of my summer tops and its light enough to wear on cool summer days and nights. Who knew? And I love the softness of it. This shawl was easy to make but a little boring. However, if you want a simple pattern, you can find it on Ravelry. Its an asymmetrical triangle - which isn't my favorite, but this size and yarn type gave me something that works like a scarf. "Linus"

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/linus-4

We love our porch.

A random hat I made - may have been for one of my grands or sons, can't remember now.

I have to hunt for more photos of these - I made a runner for the dining room buffet and matching placemats. The first time trying the quilt as you go method. I really like it.

Gifts made for friends.

Finally got around to making myself some Christmas placemats. The pattern was from an old Quilt in a Day booklet.

This casserole carrier was a test project I made for Around the Bobbin

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Soft merino wool socks - yarn from Cascade Yarns - Heritage Prints.

Did I mention I have a thing for fabric baskets? Lol!!

I won a giveaway from a knitwear designer!

Well, that wasn't so bad - maybe I'll try to write a little more often.

Until then, God bless!

Pat

2016 Part 2

2017-09-23T18:59:00.001-04:00

I had a feeling that I missed some things that I made in the last half of 2016. Sure enough, as I went through my photos I found a few more things.

This was an easy cowl to knit.

Nathan loves to wear hats out in the yard - so I crocheted a fox hat for him.

The beginning of my second pair of socks. The pattern was from Purl Soho online I believe and the yarn was Patons Kroy Sock.

This is the mistake rib hat I made for my brother for Christmas - turns out the matching scarf was made for Christmas 2015.

This cute little quilt was a Moda Bake Shop pattern - free on their website. Lots of little pieces but worth it -- gave this to my sister in law for Christmas.

I knitted this cute sweater for my grandson Nathan. The yarn was a Plymouth Encore part wool - so soft and squishy.

I crocheted this polar bear hat for my grandson, Cole.

Christmas in the new house.

I was thrilled that these pansies lasted the entire winter.

It's been nice to finally pull these last two posts together and look at all of the projects I was able to complete. The year was a very difficult one and having these projects to concentrate on helped to make the long days go easier. Mom continued to get weaker, but she rallied a bit with each visit in November and December by her grandkids, great grandsons and my brother and sister in law. We celebrated her 86th birthday on December 22nd.

So here I am - finally able to turn the page on 2016 in blogland. I'm looking forward to starting on my 2017 posts. I hope you'll join me - and please let me know you stopped by.

Pat

2016 ~ In a Nutshell - Part 1

2017-09-20T20:09:00.000-04:00

My last blog post was in February of 2016 - yikes! I left off with a picture of the deck and pond at our rental in Lewes. My husband and I had decided it was best to find a rental for a year or so and look for a new home without the stress of trying to coordinate the sale of one house and the purchase of another. Good thing - because our home sold very quickly. It was a lot of fun to move into a large town house and spread out.

The sunroom was our favorite room in the house. It faced South and had a great view of the sunrise.

2016 was a tough year. We welcomed the move closer to the beach, stores and services. But my Mom's health was failing and by September we realized she needed hospice to make weekly visits.

My sewing loft.

At the townhouse, I was able to set up a sewing area in the 2nd floor loft and I filled the loft closet with my entire stash of fabric, batting and other craft supplies. The loft was the perfect spot for me to set up shop and still be able to keep an ear out for my mom on the first floor.

In between caring for Mom, cooking, etc. I was able to keep creating, knitting, crocheting and sewing.

Here are pictures of a quilt I made for Tony & I. Its the Sultry Jelly Roll Project on the Moda Bake Shop website.

I had this Bali Pops Batik jelly roll for many years - I just couldn't bring myself to use it until I found just the right quilt pattern for it.

The braid looks a lot harder to sew than it really is.

All together! Life got crazy near the end of the year, so the quilting had to wait until 2017.

I fell in love with the Coffeeshop Shawl and had to make one. I absolutely love the feel and drape of 24/7 Cotton by Lion Brand. I think this was the first time I ever bought a kit to make something I usually like to pick out my own materials.

I discovered Hobby Lobby's "I Love This Cotton" Oh my gosh! It is wonderful - so soft, easy to work with and holds up through the washer and dryer. Don't want to use any other cotton for dishclothes and towels. The other brand I used to buy was stiff and hurt my hands to work with.

My favorite hotpad made with I Love This Cotton.

We found out that we were going to be grandparents again. I made booties in each color so that at the gender reveal party I'd have the right color to give as a gift

These burp cloths made with cloth diapers are soft and so handy.

It's going to be a boy!

Love these little sweaters!

This minky kit is made of the softest fleece I've ever felt. Sewing minky is not for the faint of heart - lets just leave it at that! LOL!

Couldn't resist making a little kitty hat - Mom and Dad had the cutest kitty that sadly crossed the Rainbow Bridge since.then.

Chris and Dianna at the baby shower.

Introducing Cole Anthony - born in August!

A friend asked me to crochet cotton hats for her grand daughters. This cotton is called Grace. It is beautiful to work with and because it is mercerized, it has a slight sheen.

Made two hats to donate to the chemo hat drive.

This gorgeous scarf was as Christmas present for my brother. This is a "broken rib" or mistake rib stitch. I love the look and feel of it, but boy was it hard to keep mistake-free.

Crocheted these cute cupcake purses for my girlfriend's grand daughters.

This is the Seashell shawl by Aroha Knits. I had made one in a creme color as well. first time I knitted short rows - it was confusing at first, but I forged on.

I am a member of the Ocean Waves Quilt Guild in Lewes, Delaware. They had a block a month for members to join in if they wished. I was able to make the first 3 blocks in 2016. Someday, I hope to finish all 12 because its a really nice scrap-buster quilt. Piecemeal Quilts is where you can find the full pattern.

In September, 2016 we purchased a new home in an active adult community in Lewes. We moved into it in October - which meant that we moved twice in one year. It was fun to once again be able to plan and design a new home. I'm going to write a separate post just on the new home.

So until then, thanks for visiting. I hope you'll leave a comment and let me know you came by.

Pat

2015 - Busy Year, Saying Goodbye and a New Beginning

2016-02-05T12:09:00.000-05:00

This is the January block of Natures Scenery Block of the Month that I chose to start. http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/year-of-the-afghan-natures-scenery

I really enjoyed making this hat. I love cables - I need to make another one in a solid yarn so that the cables will stand out though! Gingerbread Hat

This hat is both crochet and knit. I donated it to Delaware Head Huggers to be used by a cancer patient. Its called the Dana Cable Brim Slouchy Hat

Knitted my first baby sweater for my grandson :)

It fits!!!

His mama wanted a giraffe hat for him - too cute.

A commission project - placemats with matching napkins and table runner - for a bed and breakfast.

Sewed 3 tote bags as belated Christmas gifts.

Tested this tote bag pattern for Around the Bobbin

Celebrated Grandbaby's 1st Birthday!

Wallhanging quilt for grandbaby's room - a utilitarian piece to cover up a small panel on the wall and to keep the cold breeze out.

The back of wallhanging. Practiced my wavy quilting with a walking foot.

Since we were planning to put our house up for sale in the fall, I planted some colorful plants in the side yard.

And they grew, and grew and grew!

And they grew to over 3 feet tall!

Four generations!!

I love the sunlight coming through my windows.

Another visit to Cape May, New Jersey - Sunset Cove - that's the lighthouse guiding the way.

Lewes, Delaware in the springtime. They are known for their tulips.

Hit a big milestone on this earth in 2015!

This is a cotton yarn design - can be used as a washcloth or doily. Many mistakes but I learn a few things about double point knitting needles. The quilt behind it was made back in the 90's when I was madly in love with dusty pink and colonial blue.

This is the Painted Desert shawl pattern using Painted Desert yarn.

Cotton yarn shopping bag

House is ready to be shown!

The monster coleus in the window!

One last look around before we leave this pretty place. I was so happy that the plants dressed up the outdoor space for perspective buyers and that they lasted clear into fall.

Our new view from our new living space a little closer to the ocean. We were blessed with a very quick sale of our home - the first couple in the door bought it! They are a very sweet couple and they are enjoying the birds and solitude.

Well - I'm all caught up and can continue on with my blog! Phew! Hope you enjoyed the whirlwind visit through the last few years with me.

Blessings,

Pat

2014 in a Nutshell

2016-01-29T11:07:00.000-05:00

Another fun trip to Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Too many snow storms in one winter! Pretty though...

Table runner (my design) two sets of napkins and a hotpad for my son and daughter-in-love.

This is a quilt top that my mom had made many years ago. I added boarders and quilted it for her. Lovers Knot - Quilt in a Day

Love those winter blue bird visits!

I tested a pattern for Around the Bobbin It was really fun to test a pattern for a designer - had never done that before.

Made two more chemo caps to donate to Delaware Head Huggers

My son and daughter-in-love requested a wallhanging in sunflower colors.

The happy couple.

A quilt for my first grandchild. This was a pattern I had remembered from an early 2000's McCalls Quilting magazine. Searched through years of magazines to find it!

Nathan arrived in mid August - That's Lucky - the proud pup.

Grandmother's pride and joy.

Here he is a few months later on a quilt I put together from a kit my mom bought many, many years before.

Crocheted the family polar bear hats!

Christmas wonder.

This has to be my all time favorite knitting pattern for a cowl. I used Caron soft yarn. I love ribbing and this unique two direction ribbing really caught my eye.

Made mug rugs and coasters for a friend.

The reverse side.

At daddy's request - viking hat and beard for the baby.

And of course, one for daddy.

This picture has had almost 3 Million views on the internet (Imgur, etc.) Evidently there are a lot of lovers of viking hats!

2013 in Pictures

2016-01-28T08:55:00.000-05:00

I thought it would be nice to share a little about 2013, 2014 and 2015 before I continue on in 2016 - so....here are a few highlights from my 2013:

Sunset on the Banana River, Cocoa Beach, Florida

My mom loves to color Easter eggs!

Made traditional "Paska" Easter bread for mom.

Started my first knitted sweater. Great pattern - top down.

Have a blessed day!

Pat

Happy New Year - It's 2016!

2016-01-25T08:48:00.001-05:00

I've been inspired by a new quilty friend, who has a great blog, to start posting again. It sure has been a long haul through the past few years - but so many good things have happened - that I just have to begin again.

The picture above is our sunroom in the new house we are living in. We are closer to the coast now. Just a quick 15 minutes to the Delaware Bay and beaches - not to mention all the stores, doctors, hospital etc.

So...if you are still out there... I'm back!

Have a wonderful, blessed day,

Pat

A Long Time Coming

2013-09-15T16:40:00.000-04:00

It's been over a year and a half since I've written here and decided today that it would be nice to begin posting again. I'm glad to see that there are 24 people who are following this blog - and I hope that you will forgive me for disappearing. A lot has happened over the year + and I'd like to share some pictures and stories as time allows. Thanks for hanging in there!! Have a blessed Sunday.

Yellow scarf - another project finished!

See you soon,

Pat

A UFO becomes a WIP - Knitting Mom's Lap Blanket

2012-02-28T18:31:00.000-05:00

Many, many years ago, my mom purchased a yarn kit from Family Circle magazine to make a lap/baby blanket.

The colors are just beautiful - soft, powder blue and lavender. Since mom can't knit any longer due to arthritis, I decided to make it for her.

I have finally gotten the hang of knitting with these circular knitting needles!! (I only learned how to knit a year ago!) I have more than once kept on knitting and made a complete circle! Duh! I'm embarrassed to say that I have had to pull this thing out more than I care to tell you! Oh! And did I mention that the yarn is actually FIVE different colors knitted as ONE???? - Every once in a while when I'm knitting along at a smooth pace, I look down and somehow have forgotten one of the strands and have had to pull out a part of a row and pick it back up - ugh!

Anyway, its coming along and soon it will be done. I hope mom will enjoy using it while sitting in the afternoons and reading.

It was a sunny day here in southern Del. Pretty soon spring will be here - can't wait!

So glad you stopped by to see my latest Wednesday Work in Progress. I'm joining Esther over here for WOW WIPS on Wednesday - why don't you click on over and check out what she's up to lately - this is one very talented quilter!!! There are quite a few other women linking up on Esther's page who are making some very pretty things.

Many blessings,

Pat

Crocheting a Rose Wool Scarf ~ WIP Wednesday

2012-02-07T18:39:00.000-05:00

I've started a warm cowl-type scarf with some wool yarn I found in the clearance bin at Hobby Lobby. Can't wait till its done because I think its really going to be nice to wear in the colder weather we may be getting in the next week or two.

Its an easy pattern using single and double crochet stitches. I love the fact that I can crochet along and not have to count!

While sitting here crocheting, the sun was getting lower in the western sky. I love the bright blue winter sky and the long, late afternoon shadows that are forming.

Are you working on any projects? Seems like I always have a few going :)

I'm joining Esther for her WIPs on Wednesday Party.

If you haven't visited her blog, please take a moment to do so.

Esther's applique work and patterns are gorgeous!

She has quite a few other women who place links on her blog on Wednesday to share what they are working on. Its a lot of fun to visit such talented women from all over the world.

Till next time...many blessings,

Pat

Cozy Flannel Rice Bags - Great Gift Idea

2012-02-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Just before Christmas, I found this terrific tutorial on how to make pretty rice bags that can be heated in the microwave or placed in the freezer to use as an ice bag. Selina's tutorial found HERE. Selina's tutorial is very well done and easy to follow.

The inner bag is sewn out of 100% cotton muslin.

The outer bags are made from 100% cotton flannel - I found a denim colored flannel remnant at Hobby Lobby and used a flannel housecoat of my mothers from years ago for the floral covers. The denim is appreciated by my male gift recipients!!!

They sew up super quick and make great gifts.

These are great for using on sore muscles, cold hands (or toes)!!!

And they stay warm for a long time - which I love when I'm cold and can't get warm.

Here's Selena's Ingredients List for 6 bags:

What you need to start:

½ yard of 100 % cotton flannel/brushed cotton for out pillow case

½ yard of 100% cotton muslin (any 100% cotton fabric will do) for the rice pillow

12 cups of regular rice (not instant or minute rice)

Cotton thread

Yield 6 Rice Bags, approximate size 5 ½ by 10 inches

Prep time 1 hour and 15 minutes for 6 bags

Click Here for Selena's Rice Bag Tutorial

She includes this message with each rice bag gift:

Rice Bag

This is a great heating pad filled with Rice

Place the bag in your microwave for 1-1 1/2 minutes

DO NOT overheat, the rice will scorch

The outer case is removable for cleaning

the inner and outer cases are 100% cotton

The content is 100% white, regular rice

This bag can also be frozen and used as an icepack

Well, I watched Ground Hog Phil this morning live on Fox and Friends and he said we're going to have 6 more weeks of winter. Hmmmm, here in southern Delaware it feels like winter has hardly showed up yet. Not that I'm complaining!!! I'll show you what I mean in a future post.

Many blessings,

Pat

Wednesday WIP -Knitting a Basket Weave Scarf for Mr. Sunlight

2012-02-01T15:19:00.003-05:00

Just a few more stitches and another project finished!

Mr. Sunlight can't wait to wear his new scarf - he picked out the grey yarn to match his jacket.

So glad I finished it before Spring!!!

Don't you just love it when the sunlight streams through your windows? I sure do!

I'm joining Esther and her Works In Progress link up

Why not drop by and see who else has posted their WIPS today?

Thanks for dropping by,

Pat

WOW ~ Works in Progress Wednesday

2012-01-11T10:59:00.003-05:00

I recently learned about the Just Takes 2 mystery quilt and thought I'd join in since I LOVE red and white quilts and I was very touched by the story behind the project.

Here is an excerpt from the Just Takes 2 website:

"The “Infinite Variety: Three Hundred Years of Red and White Quilts” exhibit was a generous birthday gift from Joanna S Rose’s husband, and in turn, her gift to us. For six days in March, 2011, the American Folk Art Museum exhibited six hundred-fifty quilts from her personal collection in New York’s Park Avenue Armory. An additional part of her gift was a digital guide to the exhibition, including installation photographs and video lectures, available for your iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad or Android smart phone. Go to the Apple iTunes App Store or Android Market for the free download. Gay and I spent those six days immersed in our apps, bemoaning the fact that we weren’t in New York. Each day, we would talk about the quilts and say, “let’s make this one, let’s do that one, this one is my favorite”, and so on until we were exhausted. We gathered up the red and white quilts in our own collections, though few in numbers, and shared them with each other, hoping to share this joyous event in some way.

We realized, of course, that we could never make all of our “favorites.” In fact, the two of us have an interesting track record when it comes to completing quilts. We love to plan, design and shop for the fabrics for a quilt. However, our modus operandi is to put all the things we have gathered for the quilt into baskets, beautifully labeled and ready to stitch…….someday.

Infinite Variety presented us with a tremendous challenge: how in the world could we make ALL our exhibit favorites? In one of those aha moments, we decided to make a sampler featuring each one. We want to share this mystery quilt with you! Just Takes 2™ is our present for you to make and enjoy during the New Year 2012."

~~~

While you can make your quilt out of any fabric combination you would like, I decided to keep to the red and white theme and chose Rich Red and White Kona Solids. Wow! I've never sewn with Kona solids before, and I'm loving this fabric! Its got a wonderful feel and it sews beautifully. The "rich red" is sort of a cranberry and the white is a pure white.

Here are my first 6 blocks so far. (Can't wait to receive the instructions for the next batch of blocks!!) I still have to hand stitch the hearts and the circle on 2 of the blocks - but so far I'm very pleased and very excited about this quilt - and I can't wait to see the entire quilt when its done!

Now I've got to get busy and work on some other projects that are waiting in the pile!!
Thanks for visiting!

Pat

I'm joining Ester's WOW WIPS today.

Merry Christmas From Our House to Yours!

2011-12-25T01:00:00.000-05:00

To all my friends, new and old, far and wide,

Merry Christmas!

Welcome!

Merry Christmas!

A Christmas Visit to Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia

2011-12-23T10:22:00.003-05:00

Every Christmas my husband and I take a little trip as a gift to each other.

For years we've been visiting Cape May, New Jersey -

which if you've never been to this Victorian town -its a must -

especially at Christmas!!

Here's some pictures from prior years spent in Cape May:

Cape May, New Jersey

This year we decided to go South and spend a few days in Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia. The weather was beautiful - it felt like spring, not the beginning of winter!

Storefront in Yorktown, Virginia

Waterfront, Yorktown, Virginia

Mid December and they still have gardens blooming!

Why....I think that's General George Washington!!! Who is that speaking to him?

Its my hubby speaking with General George Washington and Count Rochambeau of France at the banks of the York River!! Discussing a strategy as to how to beat the British at Yorktown (October, 1781). Do you think they'll take his advice?

My hubby is SUCH a good listener and so gifted with discernment, wisdom and GREAT ideas!

Looks like they've got a winning plan!

This historic meeting ends with a handshake among friends!

I LOVE pansies ~ especially in the winter :)

Yorktown today.

Love the paint colors and brick on this store front.

Had a wonderful lunch at Nick's Restaurant riverside.

Our table-side view!

Our dream home!

Colonial Williamsburg

Camilla in full bloom ~ its December!!

Colonial Williamsburg - love the cotton bolls!

Winter garden in Colonial Williamsburg.

What a wonderful way to begin the Christmas season visiting such a beautiful colonial town! And so glad hubby got to help the General out with a winning strategy! Who knows how things might have turned out without his help!

Well! Time to bake the cookies!!

Love,

Pat

Christmas WIP Wednesday!!!

2011-12-21T17:27:00.002-05:00

I have been working on a table runner and 2 wall hangings as presents for Christmas - here are my "in progress" pictures:

The table runner was made using a free pattern I found on the internet. If you click here you can download their PDF of the pattern: www.quiltbug.com

The blocks are called "flying stars" because they are made with three dimensional flying geese. Each of the red star points are actually folded triangles and they are not sewn down. In order to understand how its done, you best go to the directions and read them. Click here.

I modified it a little so that it would fit on the coffee table of the person I am giving it to for Christmas :)

I don't have any pictures of the tiny wall hangings in progress - only finished:

Just for the fun of it, here are some pictures of my sunroom/sewing studio taken today:

I have 2 more sewing projects left for Christmas, but they aren't needed till after Christmas - phew!

Need to take the night off cause the rest of the week I'll be cooking and baking!!

Thanks for visiting - Come back again soon, I'll be posting pictures of our all dressed up for Christmas.

Pat

I'm linking to Ester's WOW - WIPS on Wednesdays

An 18 Year Old Work in Progress

2011-12-13T13:18:00.002-05:00

Eighteen years ago, I belonged to a prodigy.net quilting board.

One of the projects I participated in was a block swap with 12 other women whose first names were "Pat".

I originally started to quilt it by hand. I ripped all that out and quilted by machine - just want to get it done and enjoy it!

Each of us in the block swap picked what colors we wanted our blocks to be. The "Pat" that coordinated the swap was wonderful. She sent out letters to each of us all over the United States with a list of who each Pat was, her color choices and her address. We all made a block for each Pat, in her requested colors and then mailed it to her. It was so much fun to make the blocks and even more fun to get 12 beautiful blocks in the mail.

I have always loved the look of red, green, black and cream together in quilts - quite bold for a girl who was stuck on mauve and blue for ages (ugh!!)

After adding the black sashing that holds all the blocks together, I added the batting and backing and started hand quilting it. Then, life took over and I stored the quilt for slower days when I could go back and finish it.

Well, many, many years have gone by, and now I'm determined to finish the quilt and enjoy it. Its nice and bright and perfect for using while sitting and reading or bird watching from the sunroom windows.

One of these days I'm going to make an attempt to find all the Pat's and share pictures of our finished quilts.

All I've got left to quilt is 2 hearts on the Cats block and I'll post the finished quilt for you to see!

After all these years, I still love the colors. The quilt matches the red chairs in my sunroom perfectly - so I can enjoy it year round!

And so - another ancient WIP that will finally become a "finish"!

How old is your oldest Work in Progress?

Many blessings,

Pat

I am joining Esther for WIPs on Wednesdays

What I Made for the Craft Show ~ Christmas, 2011

2011-12-09T10:35:00.001-05:00

In early December, the Village of Cinderberry had a Craft Show and I decided to join along in the fun.

As you can see, I've been very busy getting all of these neat things sewn, knitted, etc. in time for the show! No wonder our Christmas decorating is behind this year!

My neighbor and good friend Sandy and I shared a table - this is my side :)
(My Strawberry's Table Runner is still available for details click here)

And here's Sandy as she's putting out her handmade goodies!

This table runner is very striking - Since it didn't sell yet, I'm still thinking of quilting it! Its my own design.

Love this tote bag! Its a pattern by Penny Sturges from the Aug. 2007 McCall's Quilting magazine.

These hold the Ipad2 nicely with or without the magnetic cover - or they can hold anything you like.

Hot Pads using this cool tutorial ~ Click Here

Pom-Pom Knitted Scarves made of the SOFTEST yarn ever (in my opinion).
Lengths vary from 56 to 60 inches long.

Crocheted Shell Scarves really soft.

This mini purse holds cell phones - mostly Blackberry size and smaller.

This great bag was made with this pattern: Click Here for dimensions :)

Very cute purse made with beautiful Batik fabric and the Potato Chip Bag pattern, click here for pattern details.

Two inside pockets and two outside pockets!

Very cool vintage buttons I stacked from my grandmother's and mothers button tins.

Small purse using Little Jelly Bags pattern - will hold cell phone, etc. Mine is 5" X 5- 3/4" and has a velcro closing.

Another vintage button

Thanks for stopping by...hope you have a great weekend!

Pat

Works in Progress Wednesdays

2011-12-07T00:05:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd share a picture of a small quilt I made many years ago. I'm hoping to finally finish hand quilting the stars in between the angels this year!!

I'm joining Esther today and you can too - click on the WIP button on my side bar to reach Esther's site and get the code for your blog!

Enjoy your day!

Pat

Random on This Tuesday in December...

2011-12-05T15:26:00.002-05:00

Just over five years ago, we moved from New Jersey to Georgetown, Delaware. Georgetown is a small town with just over 5,000 people. It's also the county seat. There is a circle in the center of town and our Town Hall, Superior Court and other buildings were all built around the circle. Back in October for Breast Cancer Awareness month, the entire circle and almost all of the buildings changed their outdoor lights to pink.

In the center of the Circle is a fountain...across the way on the left is the Brick Hotel.

Georgetown's Town Hall dressed in pink.

Brick Hotel on the left and Family Court on the right.

Its after December 1st and my roses and one daylily were still blooming!

Our sunroom doubles as my sewing studio :) I love the sun in the morning.

Thanks for stopping by!

Pat

Tanya Whelan's New Book and Free Pattern ~ WooHoo!

2011-10-20T20:55:00.001-04:00

Block from "Katie's Prayer Quilt" 2010 ~ my design

I am so very excited to provide a link to a
great new book coming out in December

by Tanya Whelan entitled

"Sew What You Love" .

You can click on her book's button
in my sidebar to see the book.

In exchange for a link to the book on your blog or website, Tanya offers a free download of one of

her beautiful bag patterns.

Here's a link to her website:

http://grandrevivaldesign.typepad.com/

Enjoy!!!