Handmade by Heidi

Tutorial coming....

2012-01-27T13:57:00.000-06:00

See this...

This is a "Corn Bag". The only difference is that I have added straps so you can tie it around your waist... or over your shoulder...

I've posted a tutorial previously on how to make the plain corn bags.. but tonight I'm working on a new tutorial for these little puppies with the "apron ties".

Stay Tuned! I'll have it posted in the next few days.

Valentine Giveaway Winner!!

2012-01-25T20:35:00.000-06:00

Thank you for sharing your Valentine Memories with me. I loved reading them!

You know what really struck me about all your memories? All of them were about something that was special and meaningful. Like baking cookies, or a homemade gift.. or a special moment. Not one of them had anything to do with the commercialization of Valentines Day... Like "My mom used to buy me trinkets from the $1 bins at Target!" LOL.. you get the picture?

Anyway.. let's get to the winner, shall we. The winner is... Joyful Quilter who said:

"An ex-boyfriend used to write me a Valentine poem every year...one year he had a cold while writing, he is the only person I know could work snot into a poem and still be romantic (almost)." LOL!!

Email me your address and I will get these goodies to you so you can make it in time for Valentines Day!

Now I'm off to plan some real memories with my kids! Maybe a cupcake party!

A Sad.. Sad.. Depressing Day!

2012-01-24T06:29:00.004-06:00

See this picture.... It's an awesome Quilt Store that I stop at frequently when I make the 4 hour drive to see my family. It is located in Detroit Lakes MN.

Well, when I drove by this past weekend.. this is what I saw....

I cried.. I bawled... I stomped around in the snow... and threw myself on the porch.. Then after scaring my kids with my unexplained grief.. I pulled myself together and grabbed the camera. I just couldn't believe it. It's an awesome store!!!

So today I called - they said they will close the doors in February. I'm headed to see my family again this coming weekend and will be stopping in to say goodbye and scoop up some deals!

It makes me so sad because it is such an awesome store. I've been to a few quilt stores in my day that wouldn't make me sad if they closed.. you know what I'm saying?!

But this one.. well.. I just can't take it! WWWHHHHHYYYYYY????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Valentine's Giveaway

2012-01-23T20:29:00.000-06:00

Because it's cold outside..

Because I can't spend more than 5 minutes away from the Fireplace...

Because Valentine's Day is right around the corner...

and because I'm madly in love with WOOL...

It's giveaway time!!

One lucky person will win a little stand just like the one holding my snowman wooly along with a pattern/kit to make a sweet Valentines Wooly!

Here is a better picture of the pattern. All the material is included!

All you need to do is leave a comment.. tell me one of your favorite Valentine's Memories if you have one!

Mine is about my Mom.. when we were kids, she always did something special for each of us kids on Valentines. Sometimes it was a little box of chocolates but one year she crocheted me a RED Heart Pillow with a white lacy ruffle. I have no clue what ever happened to that pillow.. but every year at Valentines.. I think about it and wish I had taken care of it and still had it today!! But you just don't appreciate those things when you are a kid. *sigh*

Anyway.. leave a comment.. tell me your favorite memory.. or you could just tell me who your Valentine is!

Winner announced Wednesday 1/25 at 8pm (or so).

GOOD LUCK!!!

The Yellow Rain Slicker

2012-01-20T08:34:00.000-06:00

I have a brother in law that is fun and funny! That's a dangerous combination.

For a few years now, we have been passing this yellow rain slicker back and forth. Secretly hiding it in each others houses or luggage. Always trying to come up with ways to get it back into the other persons possession.

This last time, the dirty dog employed his wife. She has twin boys that are a few years older than my oldest. She sent some hand-me-down clothes a few months back. Well, when I finally sat down to sort through them and look what was inside the bag....

The yellow slicker!!! DRAT!!!!

Patience is key.. I've been holding onto it for about 6 mths.. waiting for the perfect moment to return it.

Well, tonight while I enjoy my brother's birthday bash, my children are spending the night at their house.

I thought about using one of my kids as my Trojan horse - but I just can't trust them to not get caught. So I will have to do it myself when I pick them up Saturday morning.

I'm hoping they have some snow finally - because it would be perfect to stash it in a snow bank. Imagine his face when Spring comes and the snow begins to melt.. and.. wait.. what?.. whats that yellow thing under the snow?.. Dang that HEIDI!!!!!

Muuahahahahahaa... muahahahahaaa...

Sign up for the Friday Night Sew In!

2012-01-16T14:40:00.001-06:00

The FNSI is just days away- January 20th.

My cousin/cohost, Crafty Vegas Mom, is doing all the work this month. I won't be joining because we will be whooping it up celebrating my lil' brother's 40th Birthday!! He's flying home from Afghanistan in Wednesday and turns 40 on Friday.

BUT... I will have some things to share this week. I'm sewing up a storm.

So get on over to www.craftyvegasmom.blogspot.com and sign up to sew!

And since it's not a post without a picture.. I'll share this picture taken yesterday. It's from Spirit Mountain near our home. My oldest son and his buddy.

Wool's where it's at

2012-01-12T20:52:00.000-06:00

It's cold outside.. the wind is blowing.. snow is falling...

These are the best days to curl up by the fire and play with some wool.

I found this adorable little stand at my LQS and made this cute little wooly to hang. I like being able to do something creative without sitting alone in my sewing room.

Do you work with wool?

P.S. Stay tuned.. the January 20th Friday Night Sew-In will be posted tomorrow!

Math Fail...

2012-01-02T18:35:00.000-06:00

Ok.. maybe it had nothing to do with the math. Anyway, I'll get to that in a minute.

So I have this Santa and Mrs that I put under our Christmas Tree each year. They are very old.. My Mom made them in ceramics in 1978. We had them under our Christmas Tree when we were kids and I was lucky enough to get them from my Mom when my oldest was just a baby.

Each year I wrap them in something padded and place them inside one of my Christmas tubs. Well, this year I had an idea. Why not make a quilted bag of some kind for each one?!! Great idea huh!?

So I went and bought some Christmas fabric on clearance for super cheap.. grabbed some paper and started making my measurements.

I waffled between a top with a velcro flap vs. a zipper. I decided to go with the zipper. Looks good right? Looks like Santa should fit right in, doesn't it?

WRONG!!! The bag is big enough - but Santa's belly can't get past the zipper opening. Arrgghh... I so know how he feels! But that's ok.. because I can still use this for some of my other Christmas items.

So it's back to the drawing board. But first I need to go buy more clearance Christmas fabric.

My Results for the FNSI

2011-12-17T16:46:00.001-06:00

So we have this bench by our back door. It's the door we use most. Everyone comes in the door and kicks off their shoes.. throws their backpacks.. takes off their gloves and hat.. and sometimes hangs up their coats.

We have this crate there..

It's where all the mittens, hats and scarves are supposed to go. And in the summer time, we used it for baseballs.. and baseball gloves.. and footballs.

Well, I've never been a fan of how it looked. I thought I needed to find a pretty basket, or something that was nicer to look at.

Then I found this tutorial... "The Undercover Crate". The minute I saw the tutorial, I knew it was the perfect solution.

It looks so much better doesn't it. (It helps I cleaned up the floor.. but we won't talk about that)

I used one of my "Quilt Minnesota" charm packs from last year. I love this fabric.

Do you see my mistake on the picture? The white square is upside down.. aahh. who cares! I love it anyway.

I love the FNSI - if it wasn't for the sew in last night, I would have put this project off again!! Thank you to all of you for keeping me motivated!!

How about you? Did you get a lot done?

Don't forget to come back tomorrow and see who the winners are! Bobbi will be drawing and mailing the prizes this time and they are G.O.O.D!!

Sign up for the 2nd FNSI of December!!

2011-12-11T20:35:00.000-06:00

We are just days away from our 2nd Friday Night Sew-In for December. This is the time to get those holiday projects complete!!!

One of you had a great suggestion recently - when you add your name to the list below, include your state or country. Then we can see at a quick glance where we are all from.

So why wait?? Get your name on the list! Let's get those holiday projects finished!

Winner Winner!! Yes that's 2 Winners

2011-12-11T14:33:00.000-06:00

I have been visiting some of your blogs and you were all very busy on Friday night. A lot of progress was maded on gifts and projects.. so many pretty things too.

So here are the two lucky winners... (selecting using random.org)

First, the lucky winner of the "Ooo Rah Wallet" Pattern and fabric from Debbie @ Stitches and Seams is...

#53 Cherise from "Sewingly along".

#46 Karen from "Where is my seam ripper" is the lucky winner of this book from me.

I have owned a copy of this book for a couple years and it's been very helpful. And when I spotted it on sale this week - I knew it would make the perfect gift for the FNSI.

Ok winners - send me an email with your address and we will get these gifts off in the mail to you.

** The signup for the next FNSI (in just 6 days) will be posted tonight.

My FNSI Results

2011-12-11T08:05:00.000-06:00

I fully intended to post this yesterday.. but I left the house early for a "quick trip" to the quilt store.. and returned home 4 hours later. I went to 3 different quilt stores and loved every minute of it.

On Friday night I made the "Ooo rah wallet" and an apron.

The pattern for the wallet (which happens to be part of the FNSI giveaway this week) is very well written. At first, I'll admit I was a little overwhelmed when I printed the pattern - but after I got all my fabric cut out, it went together SO EASY!!

And I have a great idea for this wallet. Do you have all those little punch cards and frequent shopper cards for all your favorite fabric stores (and coffee shops etc). I always kept them in a little stack in my wallet and then always felt the pressure at the register to find it.

Well not anymore!! This new little wallet is where I will be keeping all those cards!

There is even a little zipper pouch on the back for me to keep my fabric allowance.

And here is a little stack of fabric for my 2nd one!! It's going to be pretty. These wallets would make great stocking stuffers!!

I also finished this apron.

The apron is from a pattern called "The Church Lady Apron". It's reversable.. and I fell in love with the wavy bottom.

Here is a close up of the fabric.. with little roosters..

Now I'm off to the grocery store.. that pantry doesn't fill itself. I will be back on later to announce the winner of the giveaway (2 winners).. so get your FNSI results posted!!

FNSI Giveaway Sponsor for December 9th!

2011-12-05T10:10:00.001-06:00

I wanted to give you all a preview of the the giveaway will be for the Friday Night Sew-In on December 9th.

Isn't it pretty!!? Wouldn't it make a cute stocking stuffer?

Debbie was kind enough to offer this PDF pattern along with enough fabric to make the "OOO-RAH Wallet" to one lucky FNSI participant.

So if you are on the fence about joining in this coming Friday... here is one good reason to jump on board!! Come sew with us!

Friday Night Sew In - December 9th

2011-12-04T07:16:00.000-06:00

Here it is! The signup for the FIRST FNSI of December! December 9th!

We all need to keep plugging away on our Christmas projects.. time is flying by. So get your name on the list and commit to spending Friday night with the rest of us!

(If you are new to the FNSI - you can click the link above this post for details on how it works.)

FNSI Winner!!

2011-11-20T18:16:00.000-06:00

I don't have pictures of my results to show you today. I wish I did.. but I had "Quilters Attention Deficit Disorder".. it's real - I swear.

I worked on 3 different projects - all are very close to completion. In fact, I might have one of them done tonight after I put away a mountain of laundry. I will be sharing pictures as I get them done.

Anyway - I did draw a winner using Random.org and the winner is....

#62 Dianne from "A Month of Sundays"

Dianne - send me your mailing address and I will send you this little charm pack..

AND - a lot of you already know this.. but for those who don't... Every December we host 2... yes 2 Friday Night Sew-In's. We all have so much that we need to get done.

So stay tuned - the signups will be posted soon. The dates will be....

December 9th and 16th.

Tips for a Successful FNSI

2011-11-17T11:03:00.001-06:00

With the Friday Night Sew-In just around the corner – I wanted to put together some tips for a successful and productive evening.

I’m one of those people who work best when I have a deadline. Crunch time is when I really shine! I wish this wasn’t true – I wish I was more disciplined to gradually work on projects before I feel the heat. But that’s just not who I am. *sigh*

I made a list last night – it’s a list of things that I must sew before Christmas.. and a list of things that I’d like to sew before Christmas. I make this list every year – and this year I really really want to make it all!! But to do that – I need to get sewing!

So, here are some things that I have found to make my FNSI’s more productive.

1. Plan ahead – have a plan in place. If you don’t already know what you are working on.. well.. get it together man! (that’s me grabbing your shoulders and shaking you!

2. Cut fabrics ahead of time. I’ve noticed when I have my project all cut and laid out – it’s so much easier to jump in and get busy!

3. Use plastic bins or boxes to separate your projects.

I use this technique and it’s very helpful. I keep projects that I’m working on in these little bins. I pull one out, set it on the cutting table and get to work. When I’m bored with it.. I put it all back in the bin, snap the lid back on. And then grab another. Progress is what it’s all about. That way everything related to that project is in that bin (e.g. the pattern, fabric, scraps.. etc)

4. If you have people to feed – order a pizza. OR.. make a quick meal like grilled cheese sandwiches. Everyone loves a grilled cheese! Use paper plates for easy clean up.. give em all a kiss.. then head to your sewing machine and get busy.

5. Bribes.. yes, I said bribes. Come on Mom’s.. we all do it. If you have little people in your house – sometimes you have to do it just so everyone is happy.

When the Holidays are just weeks away and you have things to get done.. bribe em with whatever it takes to give you quiet time. Maybe that’s renting a special movie and making popcorn. Or letting them stay up late and camp out on the living room floor (while mommy sews).

6. Do you work? Yeah.. I know some of you do and so do Bobbi and I. We have all been there.. you come home from work.. your mind is exhausted and you really want to sew.. but you just.can’t.get.off.the.couch!

Yeah.. yeah.. I get it. So tomorrow night.. as you are sitting there.. close your eyes.. now picture yourself 2 days before Christmas. Are you saying to yourself “Dangit.. why didn’t I do this a month ago?” Yes?? I KNOW… NOW GET UP.. GO SEW!!!

November FNSI Signup is finally HERE!!

2011-11-16T19:14:00.000-06:00

You're FIRED!!! Yep.. that's what Bobbi and I should have heard today!

Early this morning, my cohost contacted me and the conversation went something like this..

Bobbi: "Um.. isn't the Friday Night Sew-In in three days?"
Me: "Wait.. what?... YES! What have we done!!"

This Month has went flying by and the FNSI totally snuck up on us! We thought about cancelling - but honestly.. we ALL have too much to do with the Holiday's right around the corner. We just can't cancel!

So here it is.. the signup is here! Get your name on the list and commit to working on those gifts on your To Do list.. or any any other projects that need your attention.

Blog Tour Winners!

2011-11-12T18:06:00.002-06:00

Before I announce the winners - I need to appologize to some of you. I received a few emails from some of you letting me know that you were getting an error message back from blogger about my email. I used to have a blackberry and recently switched to an iPhone.. I forgot to update blogger since my blackberry email is no longer valid. Thank you for letting me know!

Today I received this little package in the mail from the team over at Quiltmaker!!

LOVE IT!!! My 7yr old asked if he can bring the mug to "show and tell" at school. I just might let him... but what if it breaks? What if it get's lost? Oh.. boy.. maybe not! That's my trophy.

Ok.. now for the winners!

The winner of the 100 Blocks Volume 4 AND this charm pack is....

#15 Coisas da Laura

And the winner of the magazine is..

#76 aztel2000 - Karen from Breezy Point

Now for an exciting surprise.. I've selected 4 more lucky winners who will each receive a magazine!!

#2 SoozeM

#21 Oddbjorg

#60 Needled Mom

#39 Bev C

Send me your address and I will get all these packages out in the mail!! (all winners were selected using Random.org)

100 Blocks Volume 4 Blog Tour

2011-11-10T00:10:00.012-06:00

Welcome!!

I'm so glad you are here!

I was pretty excited when I first found out my block was going to be in 100 Blocks Vol 4. It still doesn't feel like it's 'real'... I keep pinching myself.

Here it is... County Crossroads

I used fabrics from one of my favorite Moda lines "Neptune" by Tula Pink.

The design process started with a pad of graph paper and colored pencils.. and after many ideas.. this is the design I settled on.

I must admit that I was so impressed with all the blocks in this issue! I honestly feel like I am still in "Quilting Kindergarten" compared to some of the amazing blocks in this issue!

Here is an example of what 9 of my County Crossroads blocks would look like together.. it gets an entire different feel doesn't it?

The magazine will be available for sale within a week. But for now.. if you want to get your hot little hands on a copy, just leave a comment.

I will be selecting 2 winners.. one for a magazine...

and a second winner will get a magazine AND this lovely charm pack of 6 inch squares.

Thanks again for stopping by!

Happy "touring".

Quiltmaker 100 Blocks Tour and Giveaway

2011-11-07T18:58:00.000-06:00

This is the week of the Quiltmaker 100 Blocks Volume 4 Blog Tour!!

I will be participating on Thursday - but for now, and every day this week, head over to the Quiltmaker Blog to participate. There are a lot of great prizes waiting to be scooped up each day all week long!

Yes it's True!

2011-10-26T15:32:00.001-05:00

I'm a little excited about the new 100 Blocks Vol 4....

...because I have a block featured! WHAAHOOOO!!!

The magazine isn't out yet - it will be out in early November. So I'm still waiting to get my hands on it.

I will be participating in a Blog Tour the week of November 7th. (My day is November 10th). But I will have information on the Blog Tour each day starting on 11/7 to help you find all the participants. There will be Giveaways for some amazing goodies!!

I will also have some advance copies of the magazine that I will giveaway too! YAY!!!

Can't wait to show you guys my block!

FNSI Update....

2011-10-23T19:07:00.000-05:00

Just to let you all know I was able to power through and cut all those hexagons. Once I got the math figured out, it went pretty smooth.

I only needed 39 hexagons for my project. If I had needed more than 39 - I probably would have to break down and buy an Accuquilt thingy.

If you want to know who the LUCKY FNSI Winners are.. head on over to Crafty Vegas Mom to find out. You never know.. it could be you!

FNSI - Progress

2011-10-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

One of the downsides to living in a smaller town is that we only have one big chain craft store - and it's not JoAnns. *sigh*

Well, I've been trying to work on this diaper bag for someone and I was stuck in limbo. My local craft chain was totally out of the magnetic closure.. for.a.very.long.time!!! So long, that it made me wonder if there is someone in my town that operates a purse/bag making sweatshop.

So I had to pay double the price from somewhere else - but I had to get this bag done.

I finished it during the FNSI. And the person that ordered it - sent me an email asking for another one for someone else. So I need to make another one this week.

Not the best interior picture - but look at those little bunnies! So sweet. It's a personalized Diaper Bag.

After I finished with that - I wanted to start a project with my new "Circa 1934" fabric from Moda. It involves hexigons. I've never worked with hexi's before but they didn't scare me. I was up for the challenge.

AARRRGGGHHHH!!! Cutting these little hexi's about put me in the nut house! And look...

....I didn't get very far. And I don't even want to tell you how long those few took me to cut. I don't have a ruler type hexi template.. or an Accu Quilt thingy.. so I eventually had to walk away and made myself some hot cider.

I could have kept cutting - BUT I was worried that if I don't have them cut right - it will make sewing them even more frustrating. Any quilter knows that accuracy is the key to a nice finished product. Right?

Do you have an Accu Quilt thingy?? Can I come over?

Gearing up for a productive WEEKEND!

2011-10-20T12:54:00.000-05:00

Yep.. that's me. I'm getting ready for the Friday Night Sew-In tomorrow night. I plan on sewing most of the weekend.. as much as I can squeeze in anyway. You know.. between feeding my family.. doing laundry... and cleaning.

I have a few supplies that I need to pick up on my lunch hour tomorrow and then I will be all set.

I will be working on 3 projects in total and one of them will be with these fabrics...

How about you? Have you signed up for the FNSI yet? Do you have your project all ready?

Don't forget.. Bobbi is hosting the signup this month. So head over there to get your name on the list if you haven't already.

Sign-up for the October Friday Night Sew-In!!

2011-10-13T11:47:00.000-05:00

The signup for the October 21st Friday Night Sew-in has been posted!!

My co-host and cousin, Crafty Vegas Mom, has the linky over on her blog this month. She is planning a super fun giveaway with another very well known sponsor who was generous and sent some amazing gifts to pass along to one.. or two of you!

So get on over there and get yourself signed up!! We only have 8 days to go!!

Double the Cuteness!

2011-10-08T17:28:00.001-05:00

One very nice benefit of going to Arizona this past week for work - was that I was able to see some of my old friends.

Even though I missed my kids terribly, I was wishing I had more time to see everyone.

Just 4 short months ago, my friend Ashley had twin baby boys. I couldn't wait to meet them and to see their whole family. They went from a family of 3 to a family of 5!!

When I first met Ashley.. she was a single girl. Look at her now.

I made super soft flannel blankets for the boys. Since they live in the desert, I didn't want to make something too warm. They are self binding blankets - if you've never made one before, you need to consider them next time you need a quick baby gift. Here is a great tutorial. They are so easy to make.

I miss these babies so much right now!!! They are identical and so happy! Benjamin and Ethan... but I seriously couldn't tell you which is which.

Here they are snuggling with the new blankies. I told their Mom that when I come back next year for their 1st B'day, I expect them to be dragging these blankies around as their favorites.

And here is Kennedy - she is so sweet. I brought her a Moose from Minnesota.

The moose is wearing a wool sweater with a moose on it. The irony made me laugh.

Here are some better pictures of the blankets.

This is my new "go to" baby blanket.

Enlightened

2011-10-06T08:56:00.001-05:00

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you might remember this post. I told you about my nephew, Timm. He's an actor. He's been working very hard at it for a lot of years!

He is in a new TV show that is premeiring this coming Monday night on HBO. It stars Laura Dern and it's called "Enlightened". Timm is her boss, Dougie. It looks pretty funny from what I have seen so far.

Here is a trailer

Season 1 Trailer - Agent of Change

And here is another video....

Invitation to the Set

The only downside - I don't think my kids will be able to watch their cousin since it's HBO so you never know what's going to come out of someones mouth.

Anyway - if you have HBO and you watch it.. I'd love to hear what you think of it. It premiers Monday Oct 10th.

A Sunday Bike Ride

2011-10-05T07:43:00.001-05:00

This past weekend, the 4 of us took a bike ride. I really didn't have time for it because I had quite a few sewing projects that I needed to finish. You see, I was hopping on a plane early Monday morning to go to Phoenix for the entire week to meet my new team. Since I used to live there, I was planning to see some friends and I had gifts to deliver.

But - my husband convinced me (with guilt) to take a break from all the sewing and enjoy the Fall colors before they are gone. I'm glad I did..

Here we are taking a little break... we rode 8 miles.

The pictures don't even begin to show how pretty it was.

The air was ~~cold~~ crisp.. and clean.. and the sky was so blue.

This is a bridge that goes over the St Louis River...

It was early in the morning. But I wish it had been closer to noon so Sun would have higher in the sky and made this a much better picture.

Is this a cute picture?! My boys look so happy. Makes you think that they were actually getting along doesn't it? Pictures are deceiving - what you don't know is that they argued almost the entire way over who would be in front of the pack.

"I'm first!"

"Na Ah.. it's my turn to be first!"

"You always get to be first!"

"WHAT? - being born first wasn't enough for you?!!"

"MOM.. he's riding to close to my back wheel!!!!"

"MOM?"... "MOM"....

"DAD.. Mom's ignoring us!!"

And on that note.. I'll "Leave" you with this beautiful picture...

P.S. I'm still in Phoenix - so I'll be sharing more pictures of all the things that I made and carried in my suitcase. Stay tuned!

FNSI Results and Winners!!

2011-09-18T16:11:00.000-05:00

Well - I suppose you were wondering if I forgot about you?! I didn't. It's been a very active weekend here in my little world. My FNSI wasn't quite as productive as I had hoped. But I did make progress and that is what matters.

Sorry about the picture quality - I used my phone. Anyway, I'm working on a diaper bag for someone in Arizona. I'm using "Lily & Will" by Bunny Hill Designs for Moda. It's adorable if you haven't seen it in person. I was pluggin along just fine until I realized I didn't have a magnetic fastener to add to the diaper bag. So I had to stop and wait until I make it to the store for a fastener.

Now for the best part - our FNSI Giveaway winners!!

The giveaway this month has a theme - Sweetwater! I am a huge fan of all their fabric and when I recently purchased their new book "Simple Home", I knew I had to give a copy away to one of you!

So I purchased an extra copy to give away, AND the best part - the ladies over at Sweetwater generously contributed some goodies to go with it.

My first winner selected using http://www.random.org/ is...

Freda - from Impera Magna - She worked on some adorable quilt squares for a quilt she is making. Freda won a copy of the new book along with a set of blank Sweetwater Notecards. (I really love these notecards and it's killing me to give them up! I'm going to check out Sweetwaters Etsy site and see if they sell them.)

Winner #2 is...

Narelle from Pins and Whiskers - She did some applique and then finished a scarf.. so cute! Narelle - I'm sending you these goodies from Sweetwater... it is a table runner pattern and 5 fat quarters from their Christmas fabric.

Congratulations winners!! Send me your mailing address and I will get these in the mail this week.

And thank you to everyone who participated! Bobbi and I love hosting the Friday Night Sew-In's and we are so happy that you all join us each month.

First Day of School

2011-09-15T14:51:00.000-05:00

Yep.. that First Day of School 2011 has come and gone! My boys started another school year here in Minnesota. Only this year didn't start with quite as much drama as last year.

Mostly because we moved last Fall and I now have to drive them every day because the ~~Big Yellow Bandit~~ School Bus doesn't come to our house out here in the boon docks.

I can't believe how much they have grown this past year! They were excited to get back to work.. that only lasted about 3 days though.

My oldest is struggling with adjusting to full blown middle school. You know, changing classes all day long. And navagating it all alone. It's times like this that makes parenting hard because you see your kids 'suffering' and you can't do anything about it. Except tell them that it really does get easier.. and that all their friends are going through it too.

And my youngest is once again making his teacher earn every penny in her paycheck. He is a little turkey who loves to make others laugh.. aka Class Clown. Which may sound cute and funny - but it's really not. Even though it's hard not to laugh sometimes when the teacher tells us some of the things he has said. I usually kringe.. while my husband chuckles. And yes, only 8 days into the new year - we already received our first phone call from the teacher.

I'd better start planning her teacher gifts now! She deserves em!

Aaaah.. the joys of parenting.

Tutorial: Nook Color Zip Pouch

2011-09-14T09:57:00.001-05:00

First let me appologize up front to anyone who is not a Minnesota Vikings Fan - Especially you Green Bay Packer Fans, because you will have to suffer through this tutorial. But we are a Vikings family.. and the boys in this house bleed purple.

I made this for my son so I don't have to worry about him scratching the screen of his Nook when he tosses it into his backpack.

Supplies Needed:

2 Fat Quarters (one inside and one outside. I used same for both)

scrap fabric for accent 4x4inches

1 Zipper (I used a 22in long zipper)

Fusible Interfacing (Pellon) of your choice

Thread

Zipper Foot

- If making for a Nook Color, cut as follows:

2 pieces 11x8 inches from your exterior fabric

2 pieces 11x8 inches from you interior fabric

(If making for another device, measure your device and add 3 inches to each side. Example if your device is 5 x 7, cut fabric 8 x 10)

I used the same fabric for the interior and exterior which probably wasn't the best idea for visual effects. Sorry about that.

- Cut your pellon 1/2 inch smaller than your fabric. Mine are 10 1/2 x 7 1/2 inches

- Cut your accent fabric 2 x 4 inches.

- Iron your pellon (or other fusible interfacing) to your outer fabric. The pellon I used was fusible on both sides - so I made a pellon sandwich. If your pellon is only fusible on one side, then you would fuse to your outer fabric then place your interior fabric on (WST wrong sides together) and give a 1/8 inch basting stitch all around the outside to keep your sandwich together.

- Next, grab the zipper and pull it open a few inches.

- Then trim the ends to make the zipper 1 inch shorter than the side you want the zipper to be on. Mine is the longer 11 inch side - so my zipper is trimmed to 10 inches. (You will want to trim some of both ends to make it nice and neat. Don't just cut from one end to make it 10 inches.)

- Now take your accent pieces and fold them in half, press. Now open and fold edges to the middle and press again. They will each now measure 1/2 inch x 4 inches. (Do this with both accent pieces)

- Now place at the end of your zipper and sew to create and end. Do this with both accent pieces.

- The zipper should now look like this.

- Take one 'sandwich' and pin zipper to top. Centering. Each zipper end will be 1/2 inch from fabric ends. Make sure your zipper is facing down and your exterior fabric is facing up.

- Using your zipper foot - stitch along edge with 1/4 inch seam. Now do this with the other sandwich and the other side of your zipper.

You should end up with something that looks like this. The exterior fabric is facing up in the picture below.

- Now stitch long the top (I don't have a picture of this) but it is to finish along the zipper and stitch your 1/4 seam down.)

- This picture below is what the underside looks like after the seam has been stitched down.

- Next fold in half - with your exterior fabrics facing each other and your interior fabric facing out.

- Stitch all around edges connecting both sides. I used a simple zigzag stitch to keep edges from fraying. BEFORE STARTING THIS STEP - make sure your zipper is about 1/2 way open. This is how you will turn the pouch.

- Now that you have sewed your seams all together.. it's time to turn using your zipper opening.

Whallaaah...

It's a good idea to use a heavy interfacing like Pellon 987 or similar so it gives the pouch some extra padding. But nothing too thick.

If you have any questions at all - please send me an email and I will make sure to answer them!

Enjoy!!

It's that time of year again!

2011-09-13T19:22:00.001-05:00

Yep - I've been canning. I'm not a very experienced canner - but I love doing it.

I made pickles for my husband...

And then I've made 1 batch of Apple Butter.

We picked apples from a friends house and some of them were reddish on the inside - so the Apple Butter got a little dark purple color to it. But it still tastes heavenly.

I posted the recipe for the Apple Butter last year. If you haven't made it - it's super easy and I do it in the crockpot. It makes your house smell like fall! The recipe is on my sidebar if you are interested.

Let me know if you make some, I'd love to know what you think.

Sign-Up for September 16th Friday Night Sew-In

2011-09-10T07:07:00.000-05:00

It's finally here! The time is NOW.. that's right, it's time to commit to some SEWING TIME! Sign-up for the September 16th FNSI.

I'm really excited for the FNSI this month. We have a great giveaway planned. I would share a picture - but I only have half of it at the moment.. still stalking the mailman for the other half.

So let's do this ladies!!!

Sometimes in life.. you get lucky!

2011-08-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

As you may know, we have a family dog. She's old, cranky and can't hear very well anymore.. but we love her all the same.

She is definitely "my dog". She follows me everywhere and we got her before our oldest was born. She was our first "baby".

My oldest son has been asking for a dog (that's not mine) ever since we moved. He even gave me this quote recently from the movie "Marley and Me"

"A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor,

educated or illiterate,

clever or dull.

Give him your heart and he wll give you his."

yeah.. he's a pro at getting his point across.

So anyway, we had no plans to add another dog to our family until after our old girl is gone... which could be a few more years. But that all changed when I was relaxing at the pool recently with a long time friend. She started telling me about a friend who needed to find a home for their dog. They recently had twins and they were overwhelmed.. understandably so. And they weren't able to give their 1 1/2 year old yellow lab the attention he deserved and needed. They had already said no to a few people who wanted him because they wanted to make sure he went to the right family.

So we went to their house and met him. It was love at first sight...

He's awesome! He's mellow, house broke, well behaved.. and loves our boys! We couldn't have asked for a better dog! And since we live in the boondocks.. he is free to run run run. We are surrounded by trees and he doesn't know what a leash is anymore.

Meet Diesel.. look at that smile! He's a ham for the camera.

And the Winners are....

2011-08-21T19:45:00.000-05:00

Before I tell you who the lucky winners are, Bobbi and I want to Thank all of you for making the Friday Night Sew-In's a big success!!

We started these 2 years ago.. just me and Bobbi, as a way to make the miles between us seem a little less painful. For those of you who don't know, we are cousins. We grew up just a few miles from each other.. spent every holiday together growing up and went to the same school.. and in adulthood, we have often joked that we were twins seperated at birth.

We love how quickly the FNSI grew. We know some of you have been with us from the beginning - and we always get first timers too. We appreciated all of you FNSI veterans and newbies!! To show our appreciation we decided to each draw 2 winners this month. Yes - that's a total of 4 winners!! Whaaahooo!!!

One of my local quilt shops donated items for the giveaway this month. The owner gave me all the pattern books below and a charm pack. She's actually the author of the pattern books too. They are filled with some adorable patterns and very useful information. I added a box of Chocolate Chippers. They are chocolate covered potato chips made by a local candy store in the town where Bobbi and I grew up.

So - to get on with the good stuff..

Winner of Prize #1 is #1 Sandy R. from http://sandysshowtellquilts.blogspot.com/ And I know that hardly ever does #1 every win. So I had to do a screen shot just to show you it was real!! lol

And the winner of prize #2 is #100 - Lyn from http://stitchesfromthemainland.blogspot.com/

Send me your mailing address ladies and I will get these in the mail to you!

Now head on over to Bobbi's blog and see who her 2 winners are - She's got some awesome prizes!

Thank you for another successful FNSI!!! See you in September!

The Plan that never was...

2011-08-20T12:54:00.000-05:00

So this is how my FNSI was supposed to go....

1. Stop on way home from work and buy groceries
2. Make a quick meal of sandwiches to feed family
3. Head to sewing room and work on my project that I had all layed out and ready
4. Wake up at 5 am Saturday so I could be on the road for a 4 1/2 hour trip to my Aunt and Uncles 50th Wedding Anniversary part Saturday afternoon/evening.

But instead.. it went something like this...

While finishing up my day at work, I received a phone call from an old friend who I haven't seen in 15 years. She was in town for the weekend and wanted to see me. How could I say no?

So my family joined her family out for dinner down on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather was beautiful, the food was good and the conversation was perfect. I hadn't seen her kids since they were tiny.. and she had never met my boys. It was an awesome evening.

By the time I got home.. I had no umph to sew anymore. :-( I packed my suit case and went to bed. I was up bright and early, before the sun came up. And on the road as planned.

Now I'm at my parents house and ready to head out for an afternoon of laughs with my relatives. And when I say laughs.. I mean it. My family is a very fun and funny crowd. I will also get to see Bobbi's parents who flew in for the event. I haven't seen them in a year since I moved up here.

When I get back to my parents tonight - I plan to surf your blogs and see what you were up to last night. I hope you were all better at getting stuff done then I was.

And don't forget to come back tomorrow - Bobbi and I have A LOT to giveaway. This is our 2 year FNSI anniversary remember?!

A Quilters Treasure Chest

2011-08-17T19:28:00.000-05:00

Have you ever purchased fabric because you loved it.. not sure what you would eventually make with it. Then when you finally have the perfect idea, you realize you don't have enough fabric? And it's been a couple years and you figure that it's long gone by now?

Well, I have a possible solution. Way back last year when I moved to Minnesota from Arizona, the first local quilt store that I visited had me in awe. I told you about it in this post. They have walls of precut fabrics. I was giddy when I found a charm pack for a fabric line that I thought was long gone.

Look at all those charm packs.. and layer cakes.. oh my!!

Anyway - I wanted to let you in on a secret. They have an extensive online store! And right now, she's having a 40% off sale on some fabrics. What a great way to build your stash.

So, if you have been on the hunt for a charm pack or layer cake.. or jelly roll... or yardage you thought you'd never see again.. I suggest you take a look at the Hingeley Road Quilt Shop.

You just might find what you are looking for!

You're welcome!

August Friday Night Sew-In Signup!!

2011-08-14T13:59:00.000-05:00

Another month has FLOWN by!! Where has this summer gone? I guess all the new job activities on top of keeping my family happy, clean and fed has wiped me out! We also adopted a new doggie (more on him later). AND - I haven't told you, but I quit the first new job and accepted another one instead. It is a much better job working for someone I worked with in AZ for many years. And since it's based out of Arizona that means that I get to work out of my house!! Which will be great this winter and is great for my family. I started this 2nd new job last Monday.

Anyway - let's get to the sign-up for the next Friday Night Sew-In. It is right around the corner.. less than a week away. And I completely plan on sewing something fun this time.

If you need to know how the FNSI works.. click the link above. Otherwise just add your name to the list and start preparing for some F.U.N.

Heads Up!

2011-08-02T13:32:00.000-05:00

I'm working on a new tutorial for you guys. It's for a zip pouch to carry your eReader anywhere you go.

And the best part.. it doesn't matter if you have a Nook or a Kindle.. it works for all of them! And could even be adapted to fit an ipad or one of the many tablets out there.

So stay tuned!!

Do you HOP?

2011-07-30T08:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was the beginning of the annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop. It's an amazing event that covered the entire state.

There are 78 quilt stores that are participating this year. And I'm visiting them ALL!!

Just kidding.. Almost had you for a minute, didn't I?

I traveled from the East side of Minnesota.. all the way to the West side yesterday. We are spending a weekend with family for some fun and laughs. BUT when I head back home in a few days - I will be stopping at 5 (out of 78) quilt stores along the way. I have already warned my children to pack their patience. And I'm not above using guilt if I need it. "All the times I've stood patiently waiting for you in the toy isle and you can't give me 10 minutes of quiet in a quilt store??"

The Minnesota Shop Hop is so big that every year Moda has a line of fabric devoted just for the hop. And the fabric this year would make a GREAT quilt for camping...

Here are a few of my favorites...

I will let you all know what I find along the way.. maybe I'll stumble on something that's "Giveaway" worthy!

What about you.. Do you Shop Hop?

And the Winner is...

2011-07-24T18:27:00.000-05:00

Wow.. I've had a heck of a time with blogger today. This is my 4th time trying to get the winner posted. I think it has been my browser. But I'm not sure.

I worked on "the drapes" that have been on my to do list for a very long time. I haven't finished them but if it wasn't for the FNSI, I probably wouldn't have even worked on them. So thank you for motivating me!

Anyway - I'd better get to it while it's working.

The winner of the FNSI Giveaway is...

#34 Donna from http://www.serenityinstamping.com/

Donna finished a beautiful HST quilt. Go check it out.. I love the colors! Send me your address Donna and I'll send you a little package of goodies. I can't upload a picture for some reason!! GRRRRRRR..

But it's a charm pack of "Flurry" by Kate Spain and a quilting ruler gadget thingy. (technical term)

Now as I previously mentioned - this was our 2nd YEAR anniversary of the FNSI. Bobbi and I wanted to do something fun and exciting to celebrate. So will be doing a celebration in August because my cohost has been on vacation!

I also wanted to share a picture of what I'm working on this week.. but I can't do that either since I can't upload! So let's hope I can get this worked out very very soon!

Congrats Donna!!

Friday Night Sew In Signup is finally here!!

2011-07-19T14:15:00.001-05:00

For some reason I thought I still had another week before the FNSI. I started the new job...it's going well but my house is upside down and laundry is piling up. I desperately need to get my "workin mom groove" back!!

So let's get signed up ladies!! It's this Friday the 22nd.

If you are new, click the Friday Night Sew In tab above for details on how it works. Otherwise add your name below and commit to some sewing!!

Excuse me.. I have a lot to say today.

2011-06-20T13:15:00.001-05:00

Before I get to some news I need to hop up on my soapbox and have a "moment".

If you have been with me awhile you may remember this post when I was laid off my job 1 1/2yrs ago. During this time we moved across country closer to family which I told you about in this post. The move had been planned way before I lost my job.

I had planned on quitting as our move got closer - but was instead blessed with a nice severance package and unemployment insurance. Two things I wouldn't have had otherwise.

Now as most of you are aware, the economy here in the US is horrible and jobs are scarce. As I searched for a job - we started to realize how bad things have gotten in the job market. It was looking bleak and we lost sleep thinking about it.

And since we had no idea if or when I would ever be able to find a job in my career field, my husband and I worked to stretch our savings to the ends of the Earth.. Much farther than we ever thought we would need to. And we learned that the security blanket we had may not be large enough at times like this. But, at the same time, we also counted our blessings.

One of those blessings is my husbands job. Unlike some people suffering - he has an excellent job and makes a good living. And for that we are thankful!

But at the same time we had to pull our family together. And, along with our children, we learned the true meaning of a "want" vs a "need".

And knowing that times like this can be scary for kids - we continued to assure them that even though they may not get what they want - they would always have what they need! And explained that this way of thinking was their parents being responsible for their future rather than indulging them in their present.

During this time we have seen a change in our kids. They are more aware and they also have a whole new level of appreciation that I'm proud to see. They aren't perfect by any means.. Let's be real, if I took them out today and offered to buy the hottest toys - they'd take em! But the foundation is there and its a good start.

We have asked ourselves - when they are grown and in college, will they remember how many gifts they received for their birthday or Christmas 2011?? UM NO! I bet if we asked them - they probably don't remember what they got last year!! But they will remember having a secure upbringing and a paid for education!!

And I'm sure some of you may have noticed a slow down of fabric and projects for me. Unfortunately, fabric falls into the "want" category. I know... I know.. Its a fine line. But it had to be drawn.

So with all that said - I'm happy to say that after hard work and a lot of prayer, I have finally found a job in my career field. I will be a Systems Analyst in Clinical Research beginning in July. YAY!!!!

But our family has pledged to ourselves that we will continue our new way of thinking. And we won't save for a rainy day.. But rather for rainy YEARS!!

And we will continue to pray for other families who are suffering along with families who think "that won't happen to us! We have a savings and we have secure jobs". Because guess what.. Your savings needs to last longer than 6 months and no job is secure in these troubled times. It's getting worse.. not better. Let's not fool ourselves people!

And now I will step down from the soapbox. If you are still reading.. thank you for listening to me.

But before I let you go.. I want to say that I will be taking a little blogging break. Not a long one though - I will be back for the July Friday Night Sew-In on July 22nd. (July also happens to be the 2 year anniversary of the FNSI and Bobbi and I are planning a celebration to mark the milestone. So stay tuned)

During this small break from the blog I am planning to maximize my time as a "stay at home mom" and focus 100% on my boys and my home before I become a working mom again!

I appreciate all of you and love having this blog. I read each and every comment! Enjoy your summer, or winter for you across the equator, and I will see you in a month!

Hugs,

Heidi

I'm a slacker

2011-06-19T14:42:00.000-05:00

Yes... I'm a slacker this month. I admit it. I cleaned and organized my sewing room this FNSI. But it really needed it. The inspiration actually came from my husband. He found the perfect organizer for me and brought it home last week.

I can't show you a picture yet... But soon.

And I want to thank Bobbi for doing all the work this month in the middle of her busy world right now!! And if you haven't been over to www.craftyvegasmom.blogspot.com yet to see who the winner is.... Go check it out.

I have some news to tell you about tomorrow too! So enjoy your Sunday... And I'll see you tomorrow.

The Apron Winner!

2011-06-17T13:02:00.000-05:00

The winner, selected via random.org, of the Shabby Apple Apron is.....

Comment #5 The Vegetarian Hunter said...

"Love the print on this apron! Thanks for the chance to win it =)"

Congratulations! It's such an awesome looking apron! Send me your information and I will pass it along to The Shabby Apple!

Also.. Don't forget that tonight is the June Friday Night Sew-In!! Are you ready? Have you already started? I hate to admit it.. but I probably won't be sewing tonight. My sewing room is in desperate need of some TLC.. so I'm committing to getting it organized! But hey, that counts!

It's time for a GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-06-14T12:42:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard of the "Shabby Apple"? They are an adorable online clothing boutique and I'm hooked on their stuff! They have women's dresses for every occasion. And we all know it's graduation / wedding season!

Their line of fitness clothes are so feminine.

And if I was pregnant - I would be scooping up their maternity dresses! Very chic!

Well because it's summer.. and because all my readers are the best - I've partnered with Shabby Apple to giveaway an apron to one lucky reader. But don't worry if you don't win because Shabby Apple has been kind enough to also offer a 10% discount to everyone for the next month! Just use handmadebyheidi10off when you check out!

Here is the apron...

I love the retro photo for such a modern apron!

To enter the giveaway - just leave a comment.

If you would like a 2nd entry - you can "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook. Then come back and leave a 2nd comment letting me know you did.

The giveaway will end Thursday Night at Midnight. I will announce the winner Friday just in time for our Friday Night Sew-In.

Something pretty..

2011-06-14T06:15:00.001-05:00

It's Lilac season... can you smell em? My entire house smells like Lilacs and it's intoxicating!

It makes a Quilter sad...

2011-06-13T13:15:00.000-05:00

Have you ever been to a garage sale.. or a thrift store and seen handmade clothes or quilts? It seriously makes me sad when I see this. I always think about the person who made it.. and gave it as a gift.. thinking it would be treasured forever. But instead - it makes it's way to the donation/garage sale pile.

I found this quilt at a garage sale recently for $4. Yes.. only $4. It's a good size.. not huge but nice. It's made with all polyester..

even the back.

One thing about 100% polyester quilts.. although durable - they are not warm! I learned this the hard way when I brought this to a recent baseball game for my son. The wind was brutal and cold.. and it came right through this baby.

It reminds me of quilts that my grandma used to make. Her's were full of polyester and corduroy. Although her backings were either flannel or cotton which added the warmth factor.

So next time you go to a garage sale - or thrift store.. do a fellow quilter a favor and scoop up these treasures!

Signup for the June Friday Night Sew-In

2011-06-10T20:00:00.008-05:00

The signup for the June 17th Friday Night Sew-In is here!!!

Bobbi, my cohost and cousin, from Crafty Vegas Mom has the signup on her blog this month. I know it can be confusing sometimes when we move it from Blog to Blog.. but just know that it is always on one of our blogs.

So what are you waiting for? Get over there and sign up! And say "Hi" to my cousin for me.. I moved 2,000 miles away and miss her dearly!

www.CraftyVegasMom.blogspot.com

Fair Trade?

2011-06-08T09:10:00.001-05:00

A few months ago - one of my husband's coworkers approached me about making a trade.

She wanted to make me an Afghan in exchange for me to make some living room drapes for her.

I agreed..

then proceeded to procrastinate for months.. and months..

Well, the other day - my husband brought home the Afghan. So now the pressure is on for me to get these drapes finished!!

We love the Afghan.. it's heavy and warm.. and we have all been fighting over it. I think I definitely got the better end of this trade!

Our Garden...

2011-06-07T07:58:00.003-05:00

We started our garden indoors back in April. This is our very first garden and we have already learned quite a few lessons.

I couldn't wait to get things in the ground because they were starting to take over my windows and I was tired of it.

Our Tomato plants were BIG and getting tomatos already.

First we had to scout the perfect spot. This was difficult because we have alot of hills and trees.

Once we had it roped off - we the husband had to dig out the giant rocks.

Then we rented a rototiller and broke ground!!

Next we told the kids we would pay them 50 cents for every bucket of rocks they removed.

Now I grew up in North Dakota which is just one state over - where the dirt is BLACK and full of nutrients. It's some of the best farm land in this country. But - up here in Northern Minnesota, the soil is sandy and full of rocks. So we had some good black ND dirt delivered...

We spread it all around...

And this past weekend.. we planted. Being bent over and squatting all day has made me walk funny for days to come. But it's totally worth it!

I planted my Cherry Tomato plants in pots up on the deck.. see them up there?

I also planted melons in these hanging planters.. can't wait for them to grow. The little tryke was something we found in the woods one day. Makes me wonder where it came from and how it ended up in the woods.

And this... this would be our offical waterer.. ready at a moment's notice!

Garden Rocks

2011-06-06T12:58:00.000-05:00

We have been working away on our garden and it's finally planted! YAY!!!

We wanted to find a fun way to mark our plants.. and this is what we came up with.

First you need some rocks.. washed and dried.

Then you need some paint pens and a sealer. We used a "matte" finish for the sealer.

Next - start painting...

When they are completely dry, find a well ventilated spot to spray the sealer. We went outside to do this.

We applied 3 coats of the sealer.

Next - we decided to paint a large rock that we had dug out of the garden a few weeks back.

This one didn't turn out as good because our paint pens were starting to leak.. but we love it anyway.

Swap Fun

2011-06-04T10:00:00.003-05:00

I have been participating in the Once a Season Swap for 2 seasons now. It's fun and for some reason.. both times.. I forget that I'm expecting a package too.

So yesterday, I stopped at the post office to pick up our mail since I hadn't been there in a week. And what did I find... A box for ME!!

All of these lovely little packages were wrapped..

My youngest asked if he could help unwrap.. I said "Sure". And soon he says "Ah man.. fabric.. ugh" and I said "YAY!!!"

This great book that has a ton of ideas for the holidays!

This sweet embroidered snowman picture...

A great little zipper pouch for sewing notions...

And this little tissue pouch and buttons. (Excuse the angle - I can't get the picture to stay turned for some reason)

Thank you Donna from http://donnaslavendernest.blogspot.com/! You are very generous and I love all of it!!

Baseball

2011-06-03T14:41:00.001-05:00

Baseball has consumed my evenings lately with both boys playing on two different teams.....

These shoes have seen alot of dirt and dust these days...

There's nothing like watching your boys play ball...

And get a black eye from catching a popfly!

It's been a busy spring.

From Bad.. comes Good

2011-06-02T12:12:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had your computer crash? And you weren't wise enough to have a backup?

Well, that's what I'm living through right now. My laptop is hopeless and I'm mourning all the data (pictures and documents) that I can not recover!!

With this hard learned lesson - I have been working on the family PC. I have many things on our regular PC that I don't want to lose.

Now this may sound like a daunting task - but it's actually been kinda fun. I've been looking at old pictures.. reminising of days when my boys were small. I came across a set of some of my favorite pictures of my youngest. He is now 7 years old.. but these are from when he was 3.

But - before I show you the pictures let me tell you something that you don't know about me. I have ALWAYS had a thing for firemen. Yes.. I know many of you are with me on this. I'm not sure what it is about them but I think it's a combination of many things. They have those sexy pants with the reflector stripe on the bottom.. they could rescue me from a fire.. and they also cook. SOLD!!

Now for the back story. When my little guy was 3 yrs old - I belonged to my neighborhood "Mom's Club". It's basically a group of Stay at Home Mom's who do things together. Like playdates, field trips etc. I must add that these women drove me NUTS! They were catty and judgemental and all they ever wanted to talk about were their kids. But being home with my kids all day.. watching "The Wiggles", I was usually starving for adult conversation. I wanted to talk about World events.. or politics.. not whether little Johnny wet the bed last night!

Anyway - back to the pictures. The Mom's Club organized a field trip to our local Firehouse. I'm pretty sure I moved Dr appts.. and cancelled a visit with the President to make sure I was free to go on this field trip!

Fireman Matt showed the kids the Fire Truck and also had my little guy try on his gear..

Not sure if you can tell - but my little guy is holding one of those sets of baby keys. My heart melted when I noticed that.

The gear is so heavy - Firefighter Matt had to hold him up so he wouldn't tip over. *sigh*

When was the last time you sat down and looked at old photos? I highly recommend it. It does the heart good.

Brush-tastic!

2011-05-24T13:11:00.001-05:00

So I was doing a little shopping at Target - one of my favorite stores. And I was alone.. which makes for some relaxing time to browse the isles for clearance items.. deals... you know, those things you can't live without.

Well, I took a stroll down the cleaning product isle.

I was hoping..

maybe..

I'd find a new cleaning product that would make cleaning so much fun... That I would want to do it so often that my house would be spotless everyday!

Well, that didn't happen. *sigh*

BUT - I did find something that I was super excited about.

Now.. this may look lame to some of you. But trust me.. it's my new best friend.

Quite a few years ago I read an article about fires that start in the clothes dryer and how common they actually are (fires.. not dryers). Well, the article was enough to scare me and I've been a regular cleaner of my dryer vent ever since. But without the proper tool - I've had to use my imagination using baby bottle brushes etc. BUT NOT ANYMORE!!

Now I know.. you might be saying "Um Heidi.. they have been making special tools to clean the dryer vent for years now"... and yes, I know that's true. But are they only $3.99?? No? Well this was!

This is the right tool for the right price! I get excited over the little things.

First I tackled my dryer..

That's just after one initial swipe! And I just cleaned my dryer a few months ago.

YUCK!

Then I decided to tackle under the oven..

Giant dog hair dust bunnies.

Then under the fridge. Don't judge me.. or I'm coming over to your house with my giant brush!

This is not a paid advertisement.. The company that makes this brush, "Evercare" has no idea who I am.. not yet anyway.

And the Winners are....

2011-05-22T11:26:00.000-05:00

The lucky winners selected using Random.org are

For the book and charm pack...
#156 Linda H. from Flourishing Palms. Linda worked on some out of my league free motion quilting. Maybe someday I will be able to free motion like you Linda!

And for the "Happy" Charm pack...
#153 Kerry from A Little Stitching. Kerry worked on piecing some borders that have a huge WOW factor. Alot of work is going into them and it shows!!

Congrats Ladies! Send me an email with your info and I will get these in the mail to you!!

May FNSI Results

2011-05-21T13:44:00.000-05:00

Another successful FNSI has come and gone!

My night didn't start out well - I'll admit. I had a little clear plastic bag that was filled with some "notions" (ric rac etc) that I had planned to work with. I had come home on Thursday - plopped it on the kitchen counter and then dumped some mail on top of it. WELL - I think my husband tossed it in the trash. Of course - he has no recollection of this. But really - it's the only explanation cuz Lord know the kids don't clean - it's just him (once a month or so) and me. So, after about 30 minutes of searching every possible spot.. I gave up. $6 worth of goodies.. gone! But I picked myself up.. and moved on to project #2.

I had plans to get this section of my quilt top completely together.. but I only got about half way there.

I have the rows together - but my sashing with the mini pinwheels needs some tweeking before I sew it all together. I'm planning to work on that tonight.

I still plan to add another couple borders to the quilt. The first will be all white... then I'm doing a HST (half square triangle) border.. then another white.

So I starting marking all my HST's.

I'm not using the Missouri Quilt Co. easy tutorial I told you are about recently - because I am working with a charm pack and didn't want my HST's to be that small. But to speed up the process, I will be doing some chain piecing. Do you chain piece? I love chain piecing!

I'm hoping to have them all sewn and ready for laying out before the weekend is over. It's been rainy.. so my chances for success are good if it stays like this.

ALSO - I've decided to draw 2 lucky winners this month. So make sure you get your pictures posted today!

The first lucky winner will get this...

and winner # 2 will get this...

The book is from me and Bobbi - and the charm packs are from Barb and Mary of Me & My Sister Designs.

Did you make progress last night? Or did you get derailed?.. it happens to the best of us sometimes!

It's almost here!!!

2011-05-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

The Friday Night Sew-In is just around the corner!! I'm very anxious and I know many of you are too.

I haven't been sewing much at all! The weather has been nice and I've been working with the husband to get our garden prepped and ready for planting.

Also - you may have noticed that I've been more absent than usual. Well, my laptop that I've had issues with.. finally died. And even though we have two PC's in the house.. the laptop was the only computer with internet access. BUT - I'm still alive... and so are the kids. But it really makes you realize how much we rely on the internet for everything!

For the FNSI, I will be working on a quilt top that I have layed out and just need to put it together finally! And when that's done I think I will be doing some block piecing that needs my attention. Nothing exciting.. but all necessary!!

And without all of you in the FNSI.. I'd probably be putting it off another day. Thank you for planning to spend your Friday night with me and Bobbi (aka Crafty Vegas Mom).

We'll see you tomorrow night!!!

Scraps and Resources

2011-05-10T07:02:00.003-05:00

You may not know this about me.. but I love the public library! It was one of the first places we visited after moving here.

And I can usually be found sitting on the floor in the "crafts/hobbies" isle looking at old quilting books. I love paging through them and getting inspired by pictures of old quilts. It's a great resource for me.

My library keeps a jar at the front desk. In this jar they keep bookmarks that they have found in returned books. These bookmarks are "free" to anyone who wants them.

Now.. I can honestly say that up until this point, I had never taken one. I never felt the need to grab one of these free bookmarks. Until the other day.. I spotted one in the jar that I couldn't help but snatch it up before someone else did.

You probably can't read it.. but it says "Quilters 2002" and below that is the name "Margaret". I love this new bookmark.. and I feel bad that Margaret forgot it in a book. Probably a quilting book I'm sure. But I want Margaret to know that I love it.. and will take great care of it.

And if Margaret is reading this.. let me just say "Finders keepers.. Losers weepers"!! Ok.. not really - I'd give it back if I actually knew who she was.. and if she could catch me.

Anyway - this little bookmark inspired me to make a few fabric bookmarks.

The only small ric rac I had on hand was pink - so my fabric choices were limited. But I dug through my scrap bin and came up with these two little jewels.

They were super quick to make - and would make nice gifts. If you are interested - my fabric was 2 1/2 inches wide and 9 inches long. Great little scrap buster project too!

Friday Night Sew-In for May 20th

2011-05-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

The signup for the May 20th Friday Night Sew-In is finally here!

Keep in mind - it's not this coming Friday.. it's May 20th!! I know how anxious everyone is and don't want to confuse anyone.

Bobbi and I are excited about the prize this month. We are giving away the new book by Barb and Mary of Me and My Sister Designs called "3 Times the Charm". The book is from us.. but Barb and Mary have added 2 charm packs for the winner as well. YAY!!

If you are new and need the details on how the Friday Night Sew-In works.. click HERE for details.

Otherwise.. commit to some "ME" time and get your name on the list.

HAPPY Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

moth·er [muhth-er] –noun

1. a female parent.

2. ( often initial capital letter ) one's female parent.

3. a mother-in-law, stepmother, or adoptive mother.

We all know that the word "Mother" means so much more than that!

I'm lucky enough to still get handmade Mother's Day gifts that my kids bring home from school. I seriously don't want these years to end. And I must say - my boys' teachers really knocked it out of the park this year!

This is what I got from my oldest... they planted the flowers in class. Pansy's were my wedding flower. They are edible so we had them all over our cake too! So pretty.

My youngest gave me this super clever bird feeder! How cute is this, wooden spoons and a 2 liter bottle. Love it!

and also this windchime.

I hope you are enjoying your day as much as I am... rain and all!

Eeeerrrrr... STOP the Car!!

2011-05-07T10:54:00.000-05:00

So I was on a little trip to one of my local quilt stores to pick something up for the FNSI Giveaway this month and I decided to take a different route.

Now I'm still pretty new to this town - I've only lived here about 10 mths now. So I like to mix it up sometimes and explore. Well - wouldn't you know it.. I spotted "Great Harvest Bread Company"!!!

I'm a sucker for bread - wait.. let me clarify that.. I'm a sucker for GOOD bread. When I walked into the store and stood there with my eyes closed.. breathing in all the fresh baked bread smell - I felt my entire body melt. I wanted to just pick up a loaf right off the shelf and take a big BITE!! I think I actually heard the staff say "Uhoh.. freak-a-doodle-do.." and then I'm pretty sure they did Rock Paper Scissors and the loser got to help me.

I got a simple loaf of Honey Whole Wheat.. and then I indulged and got a round of Cinnamon Chip.. yes I said Cinnamon Chip!

Look at that!!

Oh baby.. when toasted.. LOOK OUT!! The girl behind the counter recommended I make french toast with the Cinnamon Chip. I laughed and said "Yeah.. I'm pretty sure this loaf will be gone before the Sun comes up tomorrow morning." And it was.

Ok.. enough about my bread. Now let me tell you what I got for the FNSI.

Have you seen it yet? It's the new book from Barb and Mary of Me and My Sister Designs. When I told them I was going to giveaway the book for the May Friday Night Sew In - they offered to send some charm packs to go with it. BUT I'll keep those a surprise for now.

I will be posting the signup for the May 20th FNSI on Monday. So don't forget to come back and get your name on the list. You have to participate to get your name in the hat for this great book and the charm packs!

Now go eat some bread!

Potluck in style...

2011-05-02T12:37:00.000-05:00

Check out this Casserole Keeper..

With a spoon sleeve.

Here it is open..

and closed and ready to cart off to one of the many summer time potlucks in my future!

I love how it turned out. Now to try and make one that fits my 9inch pie pan.

So Cool!!

2011-04-29T18:38:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen the website We All Sew? You all need to head over there and check it out!!

I am one of the lucky bloggers to be featured as one of their favorite sewing blogs this week! How cool is that!!?? I'm thrilled and honored.

They have an awesome section on their blog called "Sew and Serve" - if you are looking for a way to make a difference, you need to check it out! And they also have a section for "Free Stuff".. who doesn't love free ideas and patterns?

Seriously.. head over there and soak up all the inspirations!

From T-Shirt to Tote

2011-04-28T10:12:00.000-05:00

Some of you probably already know how much I appreciate the teachers that spend their days with my boys.

I know how much work my boys can be - and I want to make sure their teachers know how much we appreciate them!

Next week is Teacher Appreciation week and the PTA is doing something everyday. From breakfast to lunch.. and a raffle next Friday.

I made this tote and donated it for the raffle.

I used a t-shirt with the school mascot and some navy canvas.

It turned out pretty cute. And when I dropped it off in the office this morning - the elementary secretary couldn't take her hands off it. Hopefully a teacher will be able to use this to carry papers and books to and from school for years to come.

If you have old t-shirts with your school mascot on them - you could turn them into tote bags, or maybe a wall hanging for the classroom?? Get creative and show those teachers how much they mean to us.. and our kids!

Easter Baskets

2011-04-21T14:17:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do something different for my boys Easter Baskets this year. In the past - I've normally just purchased the Easter themed ice cream pail. But not this year!!

I found these plain wicker baskets in the craft department at Walmart. Not the Easter isle.. but way in the back by all the sewing/craft items. They were $3.99 each.

Then I dug in my stash for some "boy" fabric and made simple liners with elastic around the edges.

My plan is that when Easter is over - these baskets will go in their bedrooms. They will serve as a "dumping" place for items that I find around the house that the boys need to put away.

Hopefully - the plan will work.

Grandma's Kitchen

2011-04-19T11:35:00.000-05:00

What does it mean when people say "Comfort Food"? Comfort food can be many things.. it can fill you up and make you all ~~fat~~ warm inside. Or it can take you back to your childhood.. times when you felt like all was good with the world and you were one lucky kid!!

That's what this recipe that I'm about to share does for me. It takes me back to my Grandma's kitchen at the lake. We would spend weekends there in the summer and in the morning Grandma would make us pancakes with her (family) famous Buttermilk Pancake Recipe. I clearly remember sitting at the circa 1960 kitchen table with metal table legs (remember those?) while Grandma stood at the stove cooking pancakes in her cast iron skillet.

I recently made these for my boys and they loved them! They are truly the BEST pancakes EVER!!! I'm not kidding.. they melt in your mouth and they are so fluffy!

Anyway.. on to the recipe. It's super easy to remember.. it's all "2's"

Ingredients:
2 cups Buttermilk
2 Eggs
2 tsp sugar
2 cups Flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 Tbsp Oil (I use vegetable)
dash of salt

It makes quite a bit of batter - So I typically split it. My kids ask for them almost every single day!

And today.. I thought I would get creative and try something new. I made the batter.. and poured it into the waffle maker

Let me just say... OH.MY.GOODNESS!!! It made the best waffles ever. They were crispy on the outside.. and so soft on the inside. Why did I wait this long to make waffles with this recipe??

Sorry about the focus on this picture - but I had drool coming down my chin and couldn't wait to shove that entire waffle in my mouth! There wasn't time to focus the camera!!

Now trust me on this.. they are worth making. Even if you already think you have a favorite pancake recipe.. give this one a try and see what you think. You won't be disappointed.

I have some fun posts for you later this week. I'm working on a "Thread Guide" for you.. along with a fun bag that would make a great teacher or student book bag!

Now go make pancakes for dinner!

My FNSI Results

2011-04-16T15:57:00.000-05:00

I had a very productive Friday Night. But I do think I had attention issues. I was all over the place!

I made some progress on a quilt that I'm trying to finish...

These mini pinwheels are the last blocks before I can put my quilt top together. The small ones are only 3 inches.

I used a new (to me) method to make these pinwheels - AND I'M HOOKED!! It was a super easy way to make half square triangles. Some of you may have seen this already - but it's from the Missouri Quilt Co. It's a video tutorial on Youtube - Click HERE to check it out. You must take a look! Trust me, you'll want to give it a try after you see this.

Then I finished this quilt - it's been on my to do list for A YEAR!!! It's made with Minky squares.. chenille sashing.. and flannel backing/binding. So soft.

I didn't have much left on this quilt - just the binding. But I'm so happy to have it done!

And finally I made this little basket from Sweetwater. I'm a member of their Label Crew and this was our March project. Quick and easy Easter basket.

If you have ever thought about joining the Sweetwater Label Crew - you should really consider it now. They have a SUPER cute project planned for May. It's a sewing organizer. You can see it HERE on their blog.

Now I'm off to finish dinner - and after our house settles down for the night, I will be surfing your blogs to see what you worked on. I can't wait!

On the Fence?

2011-04-14T20:40:00.001-05:00

Are you signed up for the Friday Night Sew-in?

If not - Click HERE to get your name on the list, silly!

And for all of you that are signed up and planning to join in tomorrow.. it's just hours away.

I'm very excited and ready to sew sew sew. And as I sit down in front of my sewing machine tomorrow night.. I will be thinking of all of you around the World sewing along with us.

Bobbi will be making something special for the giveaway this month. Can't wait to see what she comes up with. And I'm excited to surf through your blogs to see what you all accomplish too!

Let's do this!

Minnesota "Nice"

2011-04-13T06:17:00.001-05:00

Have you ever heard the term "Minnesota Nice"??

I did not grow up in Minnesota but my husband did. And he's always been proud to be a Minnesota boy. In fact, when we first moved to Arizona - people would say "Where are you from?" and naturally I would say "North Dakota".. and without fail, my husband would lean over and in my ear he'd say "Can't you just say you are from Minnesota?" Too funny!

Anyway - during all our AZ years whenever I'd call someone "nice".. he'd say "Nice?.. or Minnesota nice?"

Minnesota nice is a whole different level of nice. And now that I live in Minnesota, I was lucky enough to experience "Minnesota nice" one day last week.

I drive by a house on my way to take the kids to school each day. The little couple (easily in their 70's) that lives in this house has a GIGANTIC garden! It's obvious that they take their gardening serious - it's surrounded by an 8 foot tall electric fence.

So one day last week - I decided to stop and introduce myself... and ask a few gardening questions from the experts.

They were funny and sweet - we had a few good laughs. He gave me quite a few tips on keeping the wildlife out of my garden.. and then they offered me some of their Cherry Tomato plants. Just like that... without asking.. he offered them to me along with some pots for some replanting of my own tomato plants he told me I would need to do soon.

And look - his plants are so much bigger than my pitiful little tomato plants.They told me to plant these on my patio in pots when the weather gets warmer.

I promised I would stop in later this summer and let them know how it's going for me. I could sit and talk with them for hours. Soaking up their years of gardening and canning knowledge.

And that my friends.. is Minnesota NICE!!

Apron's are FUN

2011-04-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

Like many of you - I've been on an apron kick lately. They are fun to make!

I made this one for someone I know.. but I won't say her name because she reads my blog and I don't want her to know. But I will be seeing her at Easter - I can deliver it then.

The color in the picture didn't turn out very good. It is more "Brown" in person - not so plum.

I found this pattern at a quilt store near me. But now I'm ready to move on to a different pattern. Do you know of any easy/fun apron patterns??

April Friday Night Sew-In Signups are HERE!!

2011-04-10T09:13:00.000-05:00

It's that time again! Time to join Bobbi and I for the monthly FNSI! Let's commit to some sewing time.

1. Enter your blog info below. **If you don't have a blog - you can enter the Flickr group link as your URL.

2. Make a post on your blog - letting all your readers know about the sew-in. Spread the word.. we could all use the virtual sewing support and encouragement.

3. On Friday – 4/15/11- Get your house settled, put on your comfy jammies.. maybe make a cup of tea or pour a glass of wine.. and sit down to work on some of those projects.

4. Then, sometime on Saturday - publish a post about what you worked on.. show us a picture or two on Flickr. There is a FNSI group on Flickr if you haven't already joined. Totally optional.

And finally - on Sunday 4/17/11, we will enter all participants into a drawing for the GIVEAWAY!!

NEW Friday Night Sew-In Blog Button!

2011-04-09T17:46:00.006-05:00

Get it while it's HOT HOT HOT!!!

We have updated the Blog Button for the Friday Night Sew-In. What do you think?

You can add to your blog - or update the one you already have! It's up to you. The code to add to your blog is at the top of my sidebar!

How to for Blogger:
Copy the code in the text box on my sidebar (Ctrl C)
Click design
Select Add Gadget
Select HTML/Javascript
Paste code (Ctrl V)
Save

** The signup for the upcoming FNSI will be posted tomorrow!

Garden Update

2011-04-06T12:50:00.000-05:00

I thought I would give you a little update on the garden and show you something I received in the mail today.

So far our seeds are sprouting like crazy.

And Kristen from Las Vegas sent me this sweet little package with some seeds for lettuce, melons and adorable flowers.

She also sent this sweet fabric! I fell in love with it instantly. I want to make something with it - I'm leaning towards a pillow of some kind. Or something to hang on the wall.

It's a beautiful Spring day here - I have windows open letting the fresh air in. Now I'm off to plant some more seeds in these little containers.

This garden of ours might be a bit big.. but I'm hopeful and motivated. It helps that my husband is excited about the garden too. And he has always taken pride his his lawn and spends alot of time outside when the weather is nice. I sometimes tease that he loves his grass more than me. Ok.. probably not - but it's a close race.

I love Spring!

Fabric Shopping

2011-04-05T14:47:00.000-05:00

So I found some great fabrics for the iSpy Swap that I joined.

These little bikes happen to be my favorite! I love the little basket of flowers.

Now I'd better get cutting so I can get this bundle in the mail.

Winner.... Winner... We have two Winners!!

2011-04-05T07:29:00.000-05:00

I woke bright eyed this morning eager to draw two winners for my recent celebration giveaway. I was anxious to see who random.org would select. Are you ready??

The winner of the Soiree Layer Cake is...

#38 Maria - from Life on the Block Congrats Maria!

And the winner of the journal and Kaffe fat quarters...

#116 Kelly - from Adventures in Quilting Congrats Kelly!

Ok winners - send me your mailing address and I will package these up for you and get them on their way!!

Now - I have quite a few things to share with you guys - BUT I have some computer issues that we are working on. And if I can't get it working and back to normal by the weekend.. my laptop will be spending the weekend as an inpatient at the PC Dr. Wish me luck!!

Gone to the Birds!

2011-04-03T06:50:00.001-05:00

I recently received a newsletter in the mail from one of the quilt stores here in town. They had this little tidbit in there and I love the idea so much - I wanted to share with all of you!

Keep a container (Mason Jar works well) next to your sewing machine/work space. Toss thread scraps and bits of batting in there. Then add them to your bird suet-feeder.

The birds will use your scraps of thread and batting to build their nests. Hows that for RECYCLING!!!

Let's Celebrate!!

2011-04-02T19:46:00.001-05:00

First let me say THANK YOU! Thank you to all of you for being here, reading and leaving comments. I read each and every comment and appreciate them all. Sharing with all of you is what keeps me motivated!

To celebrate reaching 500 followers along with my 2 year blogiversary - I am having a giveaway!

I will be selecting 2 winners.. yes.. TWO!!

Winner #1 will receive this awesome layer cake of "Soiree" by Lila Tueller for Moda.

Winner #2 will receive these 3 Fat Quarters of Kaffe Fassett fabric along with an "idea" journal.

How to enter

For 1 Entry: Just leave a comment.

If you want a 2nd entry - you can blog about it. Then come back and leave me a second comment telling me that you are spreading the word!

I will leave open until Tuesday morning at 7am Central Time.

Good Luck!

iPOD Cover - The Tutorial

2011-04-01T18:49:00.001-05:00

Do you have an iPod Touch? I love mine and the cover that I made last year needed some improvements. So I revamped and made a new one. I love this new pattern so much - I had to share so you can make one too!

These would also make a great Christmas gift - and now is the time to start making those gifts!!

Supplies needed:

2 Fat Quarters of fabric. (1 for interior and 1 for exterior)

Fusible Interfacing. (I used Pellon 987 fusible fleece)

3/8 inch wide Black elastic

Closure - Either snap or velcro would work.

Step 1: Cut a rectangle 11 1/2 x 7 inches from EACH fabric and the fusible interfacing.

Step 2: Fuse the interfacing to your exterior fabric.

Step 3: Mark your corners as follows

Bottom corners: 2 inches in by 2 1/4 inches up

Top corners: 2 inches in by 4 1/4 inches down

Mark both the interior and exterior fabrics

Step 4: Cut out the corners

Step 5: Next you will create the notch for the headphones. You will measure in 3/4 of an inch and 1/2 in wide.

To make sure you mark the appropriate place on each piece - put them RST (right sides together).

Step 6: Place your fabrics RST and sew all around with 1/4 seam allowance. Make sure to leave an opening for turning.

Step 7: Before you turn, you will need to trim the outer corners and snip the inner angles. Both shown in the picture below. Make sure not to accidently cut the stitching.

Step 8: Turn right sides out and press. Next you will stitch all around the outside using 1/8 in seam allowance. You will be closing your opening at this time.

Step 9: Take the elastic and cut 2 pieces to 3 1/4 inches each. To ensure proper placement - it's a good idea to put the iTouch there if you have it. If you are making as a gift and don't have the iTouch handy - you can get a good idea of placement from picture below. Pin in place.

Step 10: Stitch in place. Stitching through all layers. I backed up once to reinforce the stitching.

Step 11: This next step can get a little tricky. You will fold over the elastic to stitch the other side. You need to get creative to keep it in place as you try to get under the needle.

Step 12: Next you will install the closure. I used a snap. I bought these at Walmart. They are very easy to install. Follow package instructions for installation.

You can also use velcro for this step. Either would work just fine.

Step 13: Sit back and enjoy your new iTouch cover!!

As always - if you have questions, don't hesitate to email me and ask. And if you make one - I'd love to see it!!

Um.. What? How?

2011-03-27T20:14:00.000-05:00

So I realized a few days ago that not only did I hit 500 Followers.. but I just had my 2 yr Blogiversary. I can't believe it's been 2 years already.

I'm planning something.. something really good!! So stay tuned. I just need to figure out what it is.

Roadtrip turned upside down

2011-03-25T13:20:00.001-05:00

The kids are on Spring Break this next week. We had plans (just me and the kids) to roadtrip to Grandma and Grandpa's house (4.5 hours away) and spend a few days.. eating.. laughing.. playing.. laughing.. you get the picture.

Well, we had to cancel because we are still sick and need to get better. In fact, my Mom told me so. I think her words were "You guys are sick and shouldn't be out on the road.. stay home and rest and we will see you Easter." And even at my age, when your mom tells you to do something.. you do it!

So, we decided to get a head start on our VERY FIRST GARDEN!!

We are very excited. My husband is pumped.. the kids are pumped.. and I'm ~~doing all the work~~ pumped.

We always wanted a garden when we lived in Arizona - but the sandy soil isn't very "garden" friendly. So even though they have multiple growing seasons - it takes a lot of time and know how to do it. Years and years of soil prep and typically all done above ground.. so we never took the time to do it.

But, while the kids were at school today - the husband and I went to our local garden center and bought some initial supplies. We will be getting our seeds started this weekend.

Now we just need all the snow to melt and the ground to thaw. Then my Dad and Uncle will be bringing the rototiller to prep the plot we have picked out and we can get growing!!

How about you? Do you garden? What kinds of things do you grow?

Chicken WOW!!

2011-03-24T07:21:00.001-05:00

I haven't shared a recipe in a while - and I've been holding on to this one for a few weeks. So I figured it's time to let you in on this wonderful dish!

You will need:
1 whole Chicken
6 oz Cream Cheese
4 cloves Garlic (minced)
Ground Black Pepper
1 Fresh Lemon (cut in 1/2)
Olive Oil
3 Baking Potatoes
3 Sweet Potatoes
Prep time = 30 minutes
Total time from start to table = 2 hours

Step 1: Take 6 oz (3/4 of an 8oz brick), 2 of the minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp of black pepper. You can also add some herbs to this. Maybe rosemary or thyme? Get creative if you want.

Step 2: Combine mixture together (I used the mixer)

Step 3: Use your hands or the handle of a wooden spoon to carefully separate skin from meat of breast, thighs and legs. Being careful not to tear the skin.

Step 4: Spoon cream cheese mixture up under the skin. This is the messy part.. get your hands in there and spread it around.

Step 5: Salt and Pepper the outside and place 2 lemon halves inside the cavity of the bird. Place chicken in shallow baking dish and brush with 2 Tbsps of olive oil.

Step 6: Peel and cut the Potatoes. Toss with 3 Tbsps of Olive Oil and remaining 2 cloves of Garlic (minced).

Step 7: Place potatoes on a baking sheet.
Step 8: Place Chicken and Potatoes in the 375 degree oven on separate racks. Bake for approx 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours or until Chicken is done (165 degrees) stirring potatoes every 30 minutes.

Place on serving dish.. and enjoy!!

I can't even begin to tell you how moist this chicken was. It was SO GOOD!!

If you try it.. I'd love to hear what you thought!

Checkers Anyone?

2011-03-23T16:23:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen these large checker games?

My brother got this one as a Christmas gift this past year. He has always been a big game player.

He works in Afghanistan and travels back to the US every 3 months. He usually spends a night with other co-workers in Dubai while they wait for their flights home to various parts of the World. And typically they pass the time playing games.. checkers.. dominos.. etc.

Well, he asked me to make a bag to carry the game. Do you think it's "manly" enough?

The pockets were his idea - he originally asked for a pocket for each checker so he would always know that he had them all packed. But 24 pockets seemed a little daunting. So I made 12 total - 6 red and 6 black (2 checkers in each).

What do you think? I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. He's currently home so I will get to see what he thinks about it this weekend when I see him.

And the best part - all the fabric was from my stash!! I only needed to purchase the zipper! I love when that happens.

Do as I do.. not as I say

2011-03-23T07:10:00.000-05:00

Wait.. is that how that goes? I don't think so.

Anyway - I joined another SWAP!!! Yep.. I know.. I know.. but I'm really excited about this one. It's an I-Spy Swap.

Click picture to signup!!!

or click HERE

Have you ever done one? I have - just one other time and it was fun. And of all the swaps I have done, probably the easiest kind EVER!!

I've seen a few adorable patterns for I-Spy quilts lately and really want to make an I-Spy quilt. It's the perfect gift for any kid in your life.

Crystal over at Hendrixville is the organizer and there are only a few spots left. So you better get over there FAST and signup!! All the cool people are doing it!

Swaps are Fun!

2011-03-22T07:57:00.001-05:00

I had recently avoided swaps because my TO DO list is WAY too long. But I did join the Once a Season Swap recently.

I made this Corduroy Tote and a matching zipper pouch for Toni over at The Quilting Pirate. I'm so happy she liked it!!

The next round of the Once a Season Swap is coming in April. Go visit Cheryll and keep your eye open for signups coming soon!

And if you are interested in a tutorial for the Corduroy Tote... Click HERE to see the one that Bobbi over at Crafty Vegas Mom has on her blog.

The FNSI Winner!!

2011-03-20T14:24:00.000-05:00

Once again we had a successful Friday Night Sew-In. Along with all of us "regulars", we had quite a few first timers too. I've had fun looking at some of your blogs - there are alot to go thru! 196 people this time! WOW!! Think of all the fabric and thread that was put to good use this weekend?

Anyway.. now for the lucky winner of the June Taylor package from Arrow Sewing Cabinets

Random.org selected #175 Becca from Quilting B 29's Quilt Life. Becca made some great progress on an apron. Congratulation's Becca!! Send me an email with your address and we will get the awesome prize to you.

Thanks again to everyone for joining in and supporting each other. The next FNSI will be April 15th - get it on your calendars now! And don't forget to check out the Facebook page for Arrow Sewing Cabinets - you can win cool things if you become a fan.

FNSI Results and News!

2011-03-19T09:36:00.000-05:00

I had a great FNSI last night. In fact.. I’m still sewing today!! How about you?

Although my sewing machine was humming.. and my rotary cutter is now dull, I don’t have much to show you. I’m working on a project for my brother that I’m hoping to finish today – so when that’s done, I’ll post some pictures of it.

But I can show you this little thing I made last night…

Do you know what that is? It’s an ipod cover. Some of you may remember that I made one last year also. The first one looked like this…

But I decided to improve the design and came up with this one.

However – I forgot to accommodate one little detail

Yep, I forgot about the headphones. So I will be making another one soon – maybe today.

NOW – for something really EXCITING!!! Have you ever heard of Arrow Sewing Cabinets? You should really check them out. Their cabinets are every sew’ers dream!

Well, they are sponsoring the giveaway for last nights FNSI!!!! So make sure to share your pictures and show us what you worked on. Get that blog post done! That’s what the FNSI is all about, remember? Encouraging each other to take time for ourselves and make progress on those “To Do” list items.

Here is what we will be giving away tomorrow to one lucky FNSI participant! I’ve been wanting one of these cut n press mats for while now. And that mini spool holder is genius!

Are you on Facebook? Well, so is Arrow Sewing Cabinets. I have been a Facebook fan of theirs for a few weeks now and I can tell you they do some pretty exciting things. Every Friday they giveaway a prize to one of their fans. Yesterday was a fun flirty apron.

AND.. are you ready for this?.. when they get to 1,500 fans they will be giving away a Gidget II sewing table (Moondoggie not included). And every time they get 500 more fans.. they giveaway another Gidget (2,000… 2,500… 3,000.. you get the picture). And I’ve heard that when they get to 5,000 fans they have something BIG planned. I get goosebumps just thinking about it!

So get over there and become a fan!!! Here is a link to their Facebook page.

Now I’m heading back to my sewing room. I’ll meet you all back here tomorrow!

The Winners are....

2011-03-15T15:37:00.001-05:00

The lucky Winners were selected using http://www.random.org/ and they are...

#35 Robyn K from Stitchin' Time won the March pattern

and

#53 Kerry from A Little Stitching won the February pattern

Congrats Ladies.. send me your address and I will get these in the mail to you.

Giveaway Time!!

2011-03-13T13:12:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally made it over to the quilt store to pick up my February and March Patch Abilities patterns/kits. I was late getting February since everytime I turned around, someone in my house was sick.

Here is the mini for February..

And here is March..

I'm not a fan of the fabrics that the quilt store put together for either month this time. They just didn't do it for me.

Here are the patterns.. and I will be giving one away to two lucky people. If you have a preference for one month over the other, just let me know in the comments.

Remember - these won't be for sale on their own until 2012.. so this is the only way to get them unless you are in the monthly mini club.

To enter.. just leave a comment.

I will draw the winner Tuesday morning. Good Luck!

One More Week!

2011-03-11T11:28:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that they Friday Night Sew-In is NEXT Friday the 18th of March.

Of course you can sew tonight too... I know I will be. But the official date for the FNSI is 3/18.

Have a great weekend!

March Friday Night Sew-In.. Sign up now!!

2011-03-07T18:58:00.000-06:00

The sign up for the Friday Night Sew-In is finally here!!! Join Bobbi and I for another fun FNSI!

Get your name on the list... commit to some me time.. work on those projects that are calling your name.

If you are new and need to know how it works.. here are the details:

1. Enter your blog info below. **If you don't have a blog - you can enter the Flickr group link as your URL.

2. Make a post on your blog - letting all your readers know about the sew-in. Spread the word.. we could all use the virtual sewing support and encouragement.

3. On Friday – 3/18/11- Get your house settled, put on your comfy jammies.. maybe make a cup of tea or pour a glass of wine.. and sit down to work on some of those projects.

4. Then, sometime on Saturday - publish a post about what you worked on.. show us a picture or two on Flickr. There is a FNSI group on Flickr if you haven't already joined. Totally optional.

And finally - on Sunday 3/20/11, we will enter all participants into a drawing for the GIVEAWAY!!

Swap Fun!

2011-03-02T07:59:00.000-06:00

The only thing better than stalking the mailman when you are expecting a package - is going to the maibox and finding a package you were NOT expecting!!!

I joined the Seasonal Swap recently. And I was so consumed in what I would send to my partner.. that I totally forgot that I would be getting a package too!

I went to the mailbox yesterday and there it was.. a sweet little package from Pauline in the UK.

The table topper looks great on my nightstand. Thank you Pauline! I love it all!!

You can't make just 1

2011-02-24T14:31:00.000-06:00

I'm hooked!

A while back I saw this pattern...

I was intrigued by the double zip pouch. But, like most of us, I said to myself "I can figure that out myself". But I couldn't.. so I broke down earlier this week and bought the pattern. It was so simple!!

This is the 2nd pattern I've used by this designer and they are so well written! So much detail and easy to follow.

I made these so far - and plan to make a few more once I get more zippers.

I used her method to make the larger bag.. "Heidi's Stuff". This larger size wasn't included in the original pattern. I'm going to use it when I travel.. for my shampoo and bathroom goods.

I want to make a bigger one for both my boys too.. for all the little things they want to bring in the car on road trips. Like game systems.. etc.

FNSI WINNER!!

2011-02-20T15:32:00.000-06:00

Now for the good part - the Winner of the FNSI GIVEAWAY!!

Drumroll please.....

Thanks to Random.org - which selected FNSI Participant #122

SUPERMOM!! Congrats Susan from Supermom - no cape (love that name). She made some progress on Friday night working on her disappearing 9 patch blocks. Way to go! It looks good.

Send me your info Susan and I will get these goodies out to you...

It's a FNSI Pincushion made by me.. and a 4 pack of Verna fat quarters! Whahooo!!

Call off the Search Party!!

2011-02-20T15:20:00.000-06:00

I’m here – I’m alive. I’m sorry I’ve been absent, but I’ve been a little under the weather.

As I’m sure you all agree – there are different levels of “sick”.

There is “too sick to go to work”

“too sick to go to the quilt store”

And finally.. “too sick to sew”

Now, when someone is too sick to sew – hopefully they have sought medical attention.

Earlier this week I was actually too sick to sew. But by Friday night I was only too sick to go to the quilt store. (You still with me?) So I was sewing with the rest of you… and it felt good too.

And today, I feel really good – I don’t sound good – but I feel good.

Enough about me though.. wanna see what I worked on?

Remember this bench?

It was one of my 2010 to do items. When we cleaned out my in-laws house last summer, it was one of the items that we brought home.

Now it looks like this.

Ain't it purdy?!

And remember back in January when I said that I was going to try and do one unfinished item from 2010 per month this year? Well, this is my February finish from 2010. So far so good!

A Cake, a Cave and a Cutie!

2011-02-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned yesterday - we had the family together this past weekend to celebrate my son's birthday. The kids always play so good together and they had a blast and the weekend went too fast.

I attemped to get creative with my son's cake - I made a Castle. I think I should have put a little more detail into it.. but he loved it.

My older son and his cousin spent quite a bit of time outside digging this cave at the end of Grandpa's driveway. It was pretty deep. And I learned that I did not pass my claustrophobia on to my boys - they had not problem crawling deep in there.. and everytime they did, I cringed.

I also snapped this little picture of the youngest grandchild.. she's 3 now and belongs to my brother and his wife. Adorable!

I have threatened to steal her away before.. and this time she even agreed.

Some Creative Recycling..

2011-02-11T11:59:00.000-06:00

Thanks to my Sister-in-law for starting me down this path. My family got together this past weekend to celebrate my youngest son’s 7th birthday. When chatting with my SIL, she mentioned some mittens that she bought last Summer at a craft fair.

They are made from a felted wool sweater – and her quote “They are the warmest mittens I have ever owned”.

So I went to Goodwill early this week and found the perfect sweater for only $2.99. I brought it home and tossed it in the wash machine.. then into a hot dryer.

And made these…

These were my first attempt - I'm not happy with the thumb section. I need to come up with a better way to do the thumb.. right after I find another wool sweater!

FNSI Sign-ups!!

2011-02-09T19:00:00.000-06:00

Are you looking for the Friday Night Sew-In Sign-up?? My co-host, Bobbi, has the it all on her blog.

www.craftyvegasmom.blogspot.com

Now go get your name on the list and commit to some ME TIME!!!

T-Shirt Quilt Complete

2011-02-08T13:49:00.000-06:00

Well, I finished the T-shirt Quilt and delivered it to the recipient. It felt good to have an item off my "to do" list.

I really appreciate all of your suggestions on how to finish/quilt this one. I decided to go with grey thread with straight line quilting at an angle across the quilt.

For the back I used a soft green flannel sheet. I know some quilting purists who would never consider using a sheet as backing - but I honestly don't see anything wrong with it. I've seen some adorable quilt backings made from sheets - kids quilts especially.

This was my first T-shirt quilt and I learned a few things along the way.

1. I typically don't pre-wash fabrics before quilting - however, I should have pre-washed my sashing fabric. The reason is because the T-Shirts have all be washed so many times and had no "shrink" left in them.

2. When making a quilt using T-Shirts previously worn by a ~~sweaty~~ athletic teenager.. you can smell said teen every time you use the iron. A little lavender scented spray startch goes a long way.

Now I'm off to work on another unfinished project from my "to do" pile!

Thanks again for all your suggestions!