Challenges

Excellent --- thanks for the comments about the light. It appears that I'll be switching to LED light. I'll get to work on some research when I get home and find myself an electrician. Thanks!! I know I had purchased different replacement bulbs that are relatively expensive, but I don't remember the details at the moment. So more on that over the next week. 

Did anyone watch the video I posted last week about Ricky Tims and his quilt, entitled 'The Visitation? His artist statement referred to the use of AI in the design of the quilt, although he did not use an actual AI design (that's an oxymoron) for the quilt. He used the AI-generated designs as inspiration. Anyway, you can check it out if you haven't looked at it before. Start watching at the 4:00 mark, where he discusses how he utilized AI to assist him. 

So, just for fun, I threw in some parameters for the Trendtex challenge into A. I did not ask for an image; I simply asked for a suggestion. OMG!!   I am shocked by the results that came back. I received a two-page document with written suggestions on designs and colors. I am STUNNED!!!! I printed it off and threw it in my portable office bag. Will I actually look at it? I took a cursory glance at it before I threw it in the bag, but I haven't had a chance to really read it.  

I might just for fun. And I must confess that I spotted a couple of words that got me thinking while walking the girls before I left the house. I think I may have a plan based on two words!!

I am not a fan of AI, as I think it will take some of our creativity away in writing, creating photos, quilts, or other forms of art. BUT, if we use it to add to our pool of inspiration? Well -- it might just become a new helpful tool to use. 

I'll keep you updated on what happens. 

The drive to Kingston was uneventful, although I spotted many OPP cars along the 407 and the 401. Some of them had cars pulled over, and others were waiting to nab someone. Google Maps would pop up every time to alert me that police were ahead and ask if they were still there. I knew they were going to raise the speed limit on the 401 to 110 KPH, and since I keep my cruise control at 120, I knew I was OK with many cars speeding past me. 

There was a lot of traffic on the road, but what drives me mad is when people hang out in the passing lane or the next rightmost lane and drive 100 km/h. Move over, as you are messing up many lanes of traffic when you do that. 

I made one pit stop to use the washroom, and then I arrived in good time. 

But wait -- what did I use to entertain myself on the drive? Good old Nancy Drew. Oh my goodness — it was such a hoot to listen to the audiobook. They added music at the end of the dramatic chapter endings - just like on those old radio programs. I was cheering Nancy on as I drove. It was hilarious!!! 

OMG -- the things you can learn when you search the internet! Do you know what year the first Nancy Drew book was published? Take a guess!! Nancy Drew is older than my parents! That first book was published on April 28, 1930. GASP!!! I did not know that. It was also rewritten in 1959. Read this story to get more information. I found it fascinating. 

Nancy Drew books

The Pony Express is always working, and I met with someone yesterday - I had items for her, and she had items for me. Mary is always fortunate in finding good deals in the local thrift stores, and look what she spotted. 23 Nancy Drew books for $70. I'm going to pass - I love the audiobook version, and the version I read was the 1959 version. Wouldn't it be fun to track down the 1930s version?  

Nancy is still under copyright laws, but in the US, it will become public domain in 2026. That's interesting -- it's all in that story. 

Good grief -- there are over 620 Nancy Drew books in 13 different series! The last one was published in 2003, if I recall correctly. I loved Nancy when I was a kid, but I read more of The Hardy Boys because my brother got them. I didn't have access to Nancy when I was a kid. 

Wow -- who knew all that about Nancy? Now I have to find The Hidden Staircase - just because!! OMG -- I just downloaded the audiobook version on Libby, so guess what I'll be doing on the drive home! My drive will be split into two segments as I have demos at another store on the way home. 

It was easy to unpack the car because there wasn't much in there. The technician was waiting for the machine when I arrived. You have to love being able to make appointments for servicing! 

Then I unpacked my samples and had two excellent presentations - one in the afternoon and one in the evening. It's interesting because, as many times as you go over the presentation in your head, there are always different ways of presenting that go through your mind as you do so. However, that's OK- there are many alternative ways to achieve the same result, and I'd like to redo a couple of samples or add to the existing ones.  

I have a free day today and will be at the store, where I hope to stitch out a couple of samples or design a few new ones. Sample making (and learning NEVER ends).  

Speaking of challenges, Stitch by Stitch in Kingston is one of the few Canadian stores that stocks the Cherrywood challenge. I debated whether to purchase the bundle, as it is not cheap. You can buy FQs or half yards. 

Cherrywood Challenge display

We discussed the challenges at Monday Sewing, and while no ideas came to mind while we chatted, it was niggling in the back of my head. Oh my --- a thought just popped into my brain while I was walking the dogs, and I was hooked! 

I picked up the half-yard bundle, and I'm getting the FQ bundle for a friend. I also picked up the floss, but they don't have any of the optional Sketchbook bundle in stock, so that is on order. Anyone back home want a half-yard bundle? 

What idea came into my head? You will have to wait. However, here's the thing about challenges — first off, I think some of my best work comes from taking on a challenge. And this is something I have wanted to do for a while, and here is the perfect opportunity. So even if it doesn't get accepted, I like this piece!! Now that I have the bundle, one of my priorities (just add it to the list) is to get it designed, and then I can start to work!! 

Let's just say that I have many things on my plate that I want to accomplish, and now that my work time is going to be somewhat reduced, I'll be able to do some of the things I've been wanting to do. I can hardly wait!!!! 

Here is the list of events over the next couple of days, including links to the Virtual Retreat scheduled for the weekend. 

September 25 - Store Opening: Sewing Machine Magic, Cobourg, Ontario. This store sells PFAFF sewing machines, and I'm excited to present a series of demos that day. It's all about the magic!!!!

    Floating stitches

    Ribbon/yard/bead embellishments with the embellishment attachment

    Circular attachment

    Sequence creator

    The NEW Decorative Fringe Foot

    Maxi Stitches

September 27 - Colour My World (Online class hosted by me) at 9:30 AM. I need to send out an acknowledgment to those who have paid. But you have all the information you need. No supplies required for the first class. 

September 27 (Saturday) - Virtual Retreat - Starts at 6 PM EDT

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82693702241?pwd=QpQkm8Ppppy1XwCPOqva1bcgJCWKdP.1

Meeting ID: 826 9370 2241
Passcode: 795071

September 28 (Sunday) Virtual Retreat - Starts at 3 PM EDT

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073536036?pwd=uxRqMnK1aSKrmrcSO78w8QQs5g44eA.1

Meeting ID: 810 7353 6036
Passcode: 596838

Zoom does not like it when I post that link publicly, and I receive an email from them after every Virtual Retreat meeting warning me not to do so. It's for security reasons, but I've never had an issue, and I can remove anyone from the meeting if they shouldn't be there. It's never been an issue. 

I'm getting hungry and need to go downstairs for breakfast. I had to chuckle when I checked in last night, as the woman at the desk asked if I had ever been here before. I said YES. She said she recognized me. Nope - she recognized the orange flowers in my hair, I bet!!!

And get your thinking caps on for those quilt challenges — they are the best for letting your creativity run wild! And if you are struggling, would you dare ask AI for help? 

OK -- I have to run. 

Have a super day!!!

Ciao!!!!

PS -- In case you wonder how good AI is, there are times when my Grammarly editing software goes beserk. It will catch things like leaving an extra space after a sentence - it should be one space, not two. But there are times, like this morning, when it removed the LAST LETTER of every sentence instead. Seriously??? And there are times when I write "okay" and "OK" and Grammarly wants to make them consistent, which it attempted to do this morning. But seriously? That correction process this morning was painful, so if you spot something that looks odd, blame it on AI, not me.

Solving puzzles

Wow -- those AI bots are creepy. It's incredible how they can drill down into one of my posts and pick out something like CNC when I don't even mention it! It's a crazy world!

Anyway, I was in the car early and made it to class on time, but not before stopping at Walmart to find some stuff for my Mom. I almost completed the mission, but I will try the local store here to see if I can find the last color of yarn she wanted. 

What's even more bizarre is that once I connected my phone to the car's Bluetooth, it remembered the last locations I had plugged in when I was here in December. That's creepy! 

Navigation memory!

We had a great day learning all about the mySewnet embroidery software. It was a hands-on class and was well-received. All I can say is that I bet everyone was exhausted when they got home last night. I was! I was in bed very early and slept like a log. 

I had to chuckle when I walked into the classroom. This is a quilt that hangs over the back wall. Anyone in our 9:15 UFO class will recognize this quilt. It's called Yochi - I don't think that is the correct spelling, but do you think I can find the pattern online? Nope -- it's not happening! 

Yochi quilt

Anyway, it was a great day, and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on software experience. I will say that I need to brush up on the Mac version. The functionality is the same, but boy - the interface doesn't make sense at all. It's crowded and cluttered, and things are all over the place. 

I thought Apple was supposed to be intuitive when it came to graphics and such. I didn't find this to be the case. Hence, I'll dig out my Apple computer when I'm home and see what I can come up with. 

It'll be like solving a puzzle. Here is the book I bought at the bookstore the other day. I love this kind of puzzle. What are they? They are logic puzzles, but broken down in a completely different way from what I have seen in the past. This layout seems too simple compared to what Dell magazine used to do. However, I'm sure when I reach the Impossible section, I may rethink what I said! 

My new logic puzzle book

So, what did I do before I started quilting? I read a lot more, and I solved puzzles! I love puzzle solving, and now I have something to do in the morning. OK - while I'm here! Stop laughing! 

I had to stop at Princess Auto to pick up something for Dad. Oh boy -- I don't think I've ever been in that store. I had a part number, and that was it. But with the help of a store employee, I found the correct aisle. But I needed someone else to help me find the part. I had no clue what it looked like. And when I got it back to my partners, it was in fact the correct part. Now  - it's up to the guys at the Museum to see if it will work! 

Why didn't they make it? They didn't have any material to make it from. I don't understand, and I don't need to know more than that! 

The weather is sure bizarre. It was 0 Celsius yesterday morning, but it wasn't really cold. Oh yes - I forgot - it's a dry cold here! 

I have one last puzzle to figure out: how the shower works. I know that sounds so ridiculous, but it's the most bizarre thing. I even asked at the desk, and I still don't think I know how it works. I'll test it out later, and if that doesn't work, I'll have to get someone to help me. That's insane. You would think it would be easy, and you would think all the rooms in this hotel would be the same. This is not my first time staying here. 

Dad and I will be playing with his computer today as we try to reconnect his printer and test a sewing machine that he repaired. Never a dull moment here! 

Well, on that note, I'm off for breakfast and then to get the day started! Nothing to do today except some shopping for Mom and a visit while we solve those issues mentioned above. So that will be nice and relaxing. 

Although I started listening to a new audiobook for the drive to and from Saskatoon. Oh boy - the miles just burned up and I wish the trip was longer! This one is bizarre. Written by Mary Kubica, called Local Woman Missing. Oh boy!! Where do these women come up with these creepy storylines? And I'm afraid of what the truth will be!!!! 

Have a great day!!!

Ciao!!!

The last seam

Oh my -- how quickly time flies! You get up to do one errand, hoping you can do one more, and then time runs out. So, I'll make a list and do it later this afternoon. It's going to be a busy day!!!

I persevered with my paper piecing. I haven't done paper piecing in a while, and it seemed I made more mistakes than necessary! But I did get the hang of it - I just found the process long and tedious. The old me would have abandoned it and moved to something easier. The new me - said - "stick it out," you'll be done soon! 

After dinner, I was on the LAST seam for these sections. 

The last seam

And here are my 16 sections - eight of each, and I love them!!!! We are making the Tequila Lime quilt from Quiltworx. I have so MANY more of their patterns! 

My paper pieced sections

Phew -- so that homework is done, and now to look forward to this weekend, where I have homework for THREE classes that I must do. Thankfully, there is no paper piecing or applique, so it should all go quickly. HA -- that's what I always say, and it takes forever! FOCUS!!!!

Last night at dinner, we worked on the EXIT Game Advent Calendar. It sits on the table, so easy to access. DH was NOT going to touch it as he saw me fiddling with a giant cardboard button and a cord - sewing! Not for him. 

And then I got stuck. So, what number does this look like to you? 

What number is that? 

If you guessed four, you would be correct, and that was easy. 

But what about this one? 

What number is this?

I guess, now, when looking at it, I know my (logic) vision was flawed, but I struggled and could see only a certain number. So DH finally got intrigued and immediately "shouted out" a different answer than I had said. DAMN him!!!

Then, to get the final number, he just went "poof," and there it was. DAMN him again! Because he was right! Then he proceeded to "dance" around the kitchen, saying he was smarter than me. DAMN him!! But he was right! Sigh.......................

That's my problem - I get the initial logic, and then I can't take it to the final step! The third number may have come to me if I had left it and returned later, but I walked away knowing that we had used our collective brainpower to solve the riddle, and I didn't care that he was right! 

I did my jigsaw puzzles in the afternoon -- they are EASY and have no logic (well, mostly no logic required). They are easy enough to do them row by row - only 50 pieces. 

Mini jigsaw done row by row

Finished jigsaw

And here's the one from the day before. 

Another mini jigsaw puzzle

About the EXIT game -- I don't care if he gets more of the logic than I do. I'm just happy that we are solving the puzzles. Last year, I had abandoned the puzzle by day three, so this is super exciting!!!

After finishing the paper piecing, I took a break. Well, I was done for the day! And there was Murphy - trying to contain her excitement. I'm not sure what her problem was yesterday, but there were MANY barking incidents along the walk. I swear she barked the entire way -- greeting other dogs, talking to the squirrels, and barking just because. If the neighborhood wasn't awake when we left, they were when we returned! 

But she was wired yesterday and reminded me of a child who had eaten a TON of candy on Christmas morning. 

MOM -- I can be quiet! 

By the end of the day, almost all her toys were out of the box, which doesn't happen too often. Perhaps I should have taken her to the dog park and let her run! 

MOM -- I got this - the nose has to come off! 

She was insistent there was a ball under the furniture, so I got down on my hands and knees to find it. OUCH!!!! What the heck is the matter with my knee? I know it's a bit delicate (since my meniscus surgery eight years ago), but it's been pretty good for the last couple of years, and I can put my weight on it. 

Well, imagine my surprise when I looked to see a LITTLE bump. I've been having more trouble with another meniscus tear (my diagnosis), and I swear that it is better. This almost looks like something has moved under my skin. Did the end of the meniscus tear off entirely and move? I doubt that is possible. It's tiny, but right on the front part of my knee, so any pressure in that area HURTS. 

I'd better call the doctor as I have one other thing to ask, and then I should get the results of all those tests I did months ago! 

So, I'm listening to my audiobook, which needs to be returned tomorrow. I had about 7 minutes left when my headphones died. Seriously?? That is like running out of bobbin thread when you're almost at the end of a long arm seam. So, I charged them overnight and will finish the book today. It reminds me of the movie True Lies! Remember that? 

Seven minutes left, and the battery dies!

The book is 24 hours long, with the story set in Ethiopia, but it's very interesting and sad, although I didn't cry. It's just how the choices we make in life can affect us or other people! Be careful of your choices, and ZERO regrets.

Well, it's time for me to get my butt in gear and get to the gym! I haven't been to spin class in a long time, and Joseph probably thinks I've died. I just reserved my favorite bike, so I'm good to go. 

Have a super day!!!!

Ciao!!!

It's the principle!

 AHA --- I'm not the only Harry Potter fan out there! Let's face it --- those books introduced many young people to the joy of reading, and if they loved it, then who are we to take that away from them! I'm not usually a big fan of rereading a book, but after 20 years, I've totally forgotten the stories! It's like reading a new book! I finished the second book yesterday, and now I want to watch the movie, but I had no time last night. Perhaps tonight. 

And the big question is -- should you watch the movie, read the book, or do both? I agree -- READ the book first, then watch the movie. 

Now here's something hilarious! I picked another audiobook, this time from the Cormoran Strike series, which is authored by Robert Galbraith, who we know is J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. I swear the narrator is the same, but I checked, and it's not. But the voice sounds suspiciously like Hagrid!!

OK -- here's something else, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. I got an e-mail yesterday asking me to join a club. The online club is organized by a local quilt designer (and this is NOT new, by the way), and it happens in all industries. I pay a monthly subscription and get access to "free" stuff. I can sign up for lectures, resources, sew-alongs, etc. 

While this is an excellent way for the designer to make money, do I want to be married to that designer and her style? Some of these subscription things are kind of creepy! I don't know --- there is already so much free stuff out there; why would I want to pay for it? 

I made huge progress yesterday. Well, it wasn't that huge, but I made a dent in some of the paperwork on that to-do list. But then a phone call and an in-person visit slowed me down some. But I still made good progress. 

I also tried to clean up the kitchen table. Not that there is much on it, but this has been sitting there for several weeks, and it was time to deal with it. 

A mystery on the kitchen table

What is it? Well, I had to detangle it before I could use it. I purchased a glass wind chime at Verbeek Glass Studios when I was there earlier this year. It's gorgeous. 

My glass windchime

Now it's hanging in the gazebo, so should I get to sit out there one day, I'll be able to enjoy its beauty visually and orally. 

The wind chime in the gazebo

I dropped off the Quilts of Valour quilts. You know what? It doesn't feel so bad to give those quilts away. I know they'll go to a good home, and if they can bring warmth to someone, that's better than hanging over the railing at my house. 

I did move a few quilts off the guest bed, and I'm determined to donate more quilts, and I'll find hidey holes for the remainder. I'm TIRED of moving them! 

I managed to get this table runner quilted for a customer. She has always admired the mini log cabin in my hallway, so she made her own! It's gorgeous! 

Customer quilt - DONE

Looking at the list of quilts still to quilt and the calendar, I knew I needed to get one more done. 

Customer quilt - DONE

I've got some more trimming to do! 

Here are those silly girls! They need to be close to us always. Poor Lexi - she doesn't do stairs, so I've no idea how she manages at night by herself on the main floor. She had to overcome her skittishness of being in a closed room to be closer to us. It took her YEARS to enter a room with a door! Thankfully, our house is open-concept for the most part, so she had lots of room to roam! 

Murphy and Lexi

We had thunder and lightning this morning, so they were tucked even closer, and Murphy was right under the desk! She was NOT happy. I have Thunder shirts for them, but I didn't bother to get them out.  

OK -- so I know that some of the things I write about are total drivel, but seriously! I mentioned yesterday that someone reserved my bike - number 29 at spin class. No big deal; I booked number 31. When I arrived, her stuff was at number 30. You've got to be kidding me? I got on 31 - who cares that she can't read. Then she comes over, grabs her stuff, and says, I'll give you some room. Well, I said -- you reserved 29, not 30. She didn't say a word. Then she got on number 28. She pedaled for about 10 minutes, then moved to 29. 

As I said, it's not a big deal, but look at what you're doing -- if you reserve a bike, use that bike! Others reserve their bikes based on what other bikes are reserved. I was NOT going to switch. It's just the principle of the whole thing! And then she made it out like I was crowding her! I think not! 

The women seem picky about how many bikes are between them and the next rider. What do they do on Saturday, when the class is full? The men couldn't care less. 

I just reserved number 29 for Monday!

On that happy note, I'm off. One more article is about to go out the door and a few more to write. I'll be glad when that is done, as it's very time-consuming, but I've become much faster at editing and constantly learning new things! 

Wait -- there's one more thing to share with you. Check out this website and look for the TWO videos. It involves machine embroidery, and it's impressive. 

Have a super day!!!

Caio!!!

Harry Potter!

What's with the weather? It's positively freezing this morning. So that's a bit of an exaggeration, but seriously, a few days ago, with the humidity, it felt like 39 degrees C and this morning? It's 15! I'm not complaining -- I love wearing my sweatshirt; however, I left the windows open last night, and it's a tad chilly in the house! The girls are ecstatic! 

I had a great day yesterday, but sadly, I can't share any of it with you! At least, not yet! TWO documents and their photos went out the door. Well, they got transferred to the editor. Then I got a quilt quilted that can't be shared. It's an unusual quilt; thankfully, an edge-to-edge design was all it needed. I had to make the backing first, and it's a huge quilt, so I wasn't looking forward to that. But it went together easy peasy! 

I now have to trim and bind it, which will be a task for later today, and that can be mailed out on Monday! It's going into a magazine, so I'll share it when that happens. I'm still a wee bit behind the eight-ball on the writing assignments, so I'll continue to work on that over the weekend. 

I have ONE Zoom this morning, and I'm somewhat prepared. At least it doesn't start at 9 AM, so I have some time to finish the presentation. 

There are two Zooms tomorrow, and I'm trying to decide what to do for them. I want to have something to show and tell - technically, I do, but it would be nice to see something new! I attempted to do something yesterday but wasn't happy with the results. Perhaps I'll show that -- at least I was doing something! 

I must have scared everyone away with my caution about those panels! AHA -- we all think differently when we have to think about MAKING something rather than just putting it in our stash!! 

There are still panels available if anyone would like one. 

Panel One

Panel Two

Panel Three

My goodness -- that wouldn't be hard to make something, but then you are all being very good, and I applaud you! 

The bundle of panels is sitting on the floor beside my chair, and look what happened. Miss Murphy decided to crawl in beside them and go to sleep!

Sleeping with the panels!

That silly girl! So if she isn't thinking about her ball, she's got a teddy bear. 

Mom - I'm eating my stress bear

No, she is NOT kissing that bear goodbye. Well, I guess technically she is because she was madly ripping the stuffing out of him!

MOM -- why won't you play ball with me! 

MOM - I'm NOT destroying this bear

Mom -- remember - I'm the cute one! 

This area looks like a teddy bear graveyard! I need to get a garbage bag and clean up her mess. 

MOM - this is my area - stay out! 

In an attempt to clean up the paperwork at my desk, I managed to sneak in an hour's worth. I didn't even make a dent. But that's OK -- it's one hour that I don't have to worry about later. 

So what are you reading or listening to these days? I've gone back in time, and I'm listening to Harry Potter! WOW --- Can you believe it's over 25 years since the first book was published. NO - that can't be true, but it is. The date the first book was published is June 26, 1997. 

Can you believe that I never finished the series? I never read the last two books! Not sure why that is, but anyway, I've decided to go back and read them, so I can eventually read those last two. They are fascinating books, and you can see why they took off! You just have to love Harry, Ron, Hermione, and all the secondary characters. 

DH commented that my new hiking shoes are pretty bright! I know --- if you checked out the site yesterday, there are 16 colors. I might as well go bright -- why not!

I also managed to get my sample suitcase unpacked. It's been sitting in the front hall for weeks, and the only reason, I did that is I need to start packing for my event on July 22, where I'll be doing some demos at Sew Productive in Acton!

Well, I guess it's going to be short and sweet this morning! 

Have a super day!!

Ciao!!!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to everyone. Gosh -- I totally forgot it was Mother's Day; thankfully, I got a text from Spain to remind me. 

DH is still away and wished me a good day and hoped the girls would bring me something nice. Nice? I don't want anything but peace and quiet. And we all know that's not going to happen. 

Murphy is PERSISTENT with that ball of hers. I throw it, but it's never enough. I try to hide it, but she barks. And then this happened. 

MOM -- I needed a bath

She dropped the ball in the pond and was teetering on the rocks at the back as I was busy weeding. Next thing I knew, she overreached, and PLOP -- she slid in! 

She managed to keep her head above the water as she went in. I wonder how they do that? 

MOM -- I'm sorry (well, not really!) 

Oh, Murphy!! 

The only way to get peace and quiet was to come into the house, and it was getting dark by then. 

OK -- so I HAD to finish that Louise Penny book (How the Light Gets In). I had five hours left, and it was late afternoon, but I was determined. I had even planned to walk to the restaurant since I didn't go the night before (hockey game, which would have been insane). But I didn't want to take the time to go to the restaurant, so I stayed home. How sad is that? 

I managed to finish the book at 9 PM. It was good and made up for all the angst I felt reading the last three books. Well, I think it is three books. I'm almost ANXIOUS to read the next one, but I'll wait a while. There are loads of other authors to read!

All I can say is thank goodness that the plot line is over, and it shows that patience is a virtue!

The three presentations went well yesterday, and always so many things to learn! Even myself! We never pat ourselves on the back, but I will say that I'm a quick study! I may not think of doing something, but if I see someone else do something, I can devise a better way. Not always, mind you, but it's my out-of-the-box mentality! 

The two presentations for today are almost ready - just a few more pictures to add and switch the order of some slides! Sometimes, I go down a rabbit hole when making up these presentations. The research I do online, and the things I learn are well worth putting them together! 

So by the time I was done with the presentations, there didn't seem to be much of the day left, but I HAVE work to do and lots of it. I decided I had better get my jacket cut out. OK -- those scissors are AMAZING! They cut through TWO thicknesses of quilted fabric like a hot knife through butter. 

Cutting out my jacket with my KAI scissors

Yikes -- is there going to be enough fabric? Because the batting was a bit skinnier than I would have liked, I didn't have the full width of fabric to play with. However, after some strategic placement, I had JUST enough. I don't remember what batting I used, but I'll get the name this week when I'm in Kingston. OH -- I didn't focus much on grainline; I hope it looks OK. 

Just enough for the last sleeve

I had to rip out some of the larger sections (which I'm very good at!) to get enough unquilted fabric for the pockets. I hope to get most of it sewn today? I don't know about that as I have writing to do and the long arm is sitting idle! 

It's incredible how a few small stretches and those toe spreaders make me feel. I've been walking STRONG the last couple of days. Not that I didn't before, but I can feel those tight muscles, and they restrict my gait. Not so with the stretching, so why don't I do it more often? I LOVE the toe stretchers. My feet definitely feel less tired, and why is that? And why is the change so sudden? I'm sure it's all in my head, but that's OK; there's nothing else in there! LOL! 

I saw an ambulance outside one of our neighbor's houses, and I think the elderly gentleman who was NOT strong on his feet had fallen. Oh dear, they just lost their dog about a month ago, and now this. I hope they are OK, but I have a feeling that the house will be up for sale one day soon. 

Here's a mystery - I was out walking yesterday and spotted this neon green dot on the sidewalk. OK -- no big deal. But then I kept seeing them. Is someone trying to mark the path to find their way home? 

A green dot

Little by little, I'm weeding the backyard. It's therapeutic, and I can listen to my audiobook while weeding. I know - I should be listening to nature, but yesterday was an exceptional day trying to finish that audiobook. I spotted this dandelion seed ball, and it was in perfect shape, so I had to take a picture before it went into the garbage. 

Dandelion seed ball

They really are beautiful! 

I came into the house when it got dark and continued to rip out those bits of fabric and finish the audiobook. Of course, the girls followed me in the house, and Murphy proceeded to play with her ball, and YES -- it goes under the furniture where she can't get it. 

When buying new furniture, everything will have to be touching the floor or high enough that she can get under it. What a persistent dog. But eventually, she went to bed. 

Mom -- I'm exhausted! 

Remember, if you are in the Kingston or Regina area, check out these events. You WILL learn my mistake with the serger and many other tips. 

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I'll be at Stitch by Stitch in Kingston on May 18 and 19. 

May 18 (10 - 1) is Embroidery - Where to Begin (Husqvarna Viking)

May 18 (6 - 9) is Accessories, Attachments, and More (Husqvarna Viking)

May 19 (9 - 12) Garment Sewing Techniques (PFAFF)

May 19  (2 - 5) Accessories, Attachment, and More (PFAFF)

The accessories and attachments are geared to specific brands of machines. The other two will focus on the particular brand of machines, but there will be loads of tips and tricks for EVERYONE, regardless of your machine brand. You do NOT need top-of-the-line machines for any of them. They are all lectures/demos, so come, sit back and relax and learn! 

This is the place to ask questions, so get signed up! 

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Then I'm in Regina, Saskatchewan. 

I'll be at Peachtree Quilt Shop (Northgate Sewing Center) on May 23 and 24

May 23 (9 - 12) Quilting

May 23 (1 -4) Quilting

May 24 (9 - 12) Serging

May 24 (1 - 4) Serging

Again, these are lectures/demos, so all you need to do is come and listen. I have loads of samples to inspire and loads of tips to share, and we're going to have a super time! Even if you've been quilting for a long time, there's sure to be something new to inspire, and as for the serger class? Well, I know some of you are terrified of your serger, and trust me -- you won't be when we're done! Loads of tips and tricks to make you WANT to get that serger out! 

Check your calendars and get signed up!! You'll be sorry if you miss these events. 

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FYI -- the Virtual Retreat is on May 27 and 28 this month. 

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And I have ONE last thing to share with you today. I haven't had a chance to check out the website yet, but it's eye candy. It's the result of the Sustainability Challenge hosted by The Canadian Quilter's Association. WOW --- I had a quick glance, and there are some very cool projects. 

OK -- I'd better run as I can't be late! 

Have a super day!!!

Ciao!!!

On sewing garments

I am NOT an enabler, although I hear someone else bought that grain elevator panel! I know --- we're preserving history. And that sounds like a perfect excuse to buy it. I am waiting for my panels to arrive, and then I need to make a quilt so it can return to Saskatchewan in a couple of months. 

Oh, those girls --- they are needy! It's not good that we have been home so much these last couple of years because now they think we are HERE for them always. And Murphy is especially "bad." I can be on a Zoom call, and she needs attention. The other day, she put her paws on my chair! And then she pushes the chair. Oh, Murphy --- I love you, but there's a time and place for loving -- and that's NOT on a Zoom call!!!

She has zero issues with being around stuff and plunked herself in the middle of my paperwork to be super close to me! What a girl! 

MOM -- I'm right here! 

And Lexi has taken to sitting on her mat in the hallway. That girl is a "leaner," for sure. She LOVES leaning against the wall, and since the sofa was blocked (a treat for the evening), she was sulking. 

MOM -- this rough mat feels great on my butt

I did something I hadn't done in a while. I cut out a garment! I'm using a paper pattern I recently purchased, and I diligently traced it out on my red dot pattern paper to preserve the original. I had washed the fabric the previous night, so I was ready to cut the garment out. 

Tracing a garment pattern

And here it is, all ready to be sewn together. I get to try out my new hemmer tool as well. That's actually for pressing the hem before you sew, as you want the hem to be even. I can't wait to try it. I still have a bit of marking to do before I get started. 

My garment is ready to sew

It's surprising because the more I chat with people, the more I learn about them, and I am finding that more people than I thought are sewing garments! Who knew? 

Plus, I hope to work on this later today or tomorrow. 

Another new toy to play with

While looking for that library book, I opened a cabinet and found a magazine with some fabric set aside to make a small project. I was sure I had done that, but I had no idea where the fabric was. Now I know why I was confused -- I have TWO copies of the magazine -- one that had the fabric in it and the other did not. The second one is in my giveaway pile for next week's retreat. YES --- a quilting retreat is thrown into my schedule, and it will be ugly, but I'll make it work! 

Two copies of the same magazine

Around dinner time, I heard some beeping out front, which meant snow clearing. What the heck are they doing, and is it going to involve more shoveling? There is a huge swath of snow in the front. Part of that is because the two neighbors to my left insist on clearing their driveways with one of those big scoops you cannot lift. 

Nope -- they are happy to push it into the street and then complain bitterly when their drives get plugged with snow from the plow. Well, people, if you used a regular scoop -- you could LIFT that snow onto your lawn. Granted, there is little space between their two driveways, but still. 

Anyone one of them called the city to complain, and they brought the cutest little bobcat to move the excess snow. 

The city is clearing the mess

And when they were done, it looked like this. At least the 10 feet of snow that extended into the street. They mostly removed from the two spots on the right, and that is precisely where those two neighbors dump their snow -- it was NOT because of the plow! Amazing how people can't recognize that they are part of the problem. You can't really see in this picture, but to the left of our driveway - there is a big pile of snow on the front section of the lawn. But there is little on our neighbor's side because he dumps it in the street instead of shoveling the snow there. 

Excess snow was removed last night

The snow got moved to the opposite side of the street. Now the big plow that comes by is supposed to do this, but maybe not quite that tidy, so I wonder how they are training those plow operators. At least the operator for our street is MUCH better than last year, and he was nasty! 

The excess is now across the street

The bottom line is we have a 20 CM snowstorm coming, and I'm in good shape. There will be snow in my driveway, but it won't be all this old snow that my neighbors shoveled into the street. Did you notice how clear my driveway is? We like to keep it clear of snow -- right to the edges and even into the street. It drives me crazy otherwise!!!

I thanked our neighbor for plowing the sidewalks with his snowblower that last time. It's not necessary, but it was much appreciated with that heavy wet snow. Let's hope this new 20 cm is fluffy and light! I want a fluffy and light shoveling experience this winter!

Here are the two batik pieces I received from Lindley General Store. You have to love all these labels they put on stuff. Well, if I want to order more -- it would be a snap! They included batiks because the three pieces of fabric I purchased were batiks. 

Two batik samples

Two more pieces of garment fabric went into the washer last night, sitting on the kitchen table. I plan to start cutting later today. Then this weekend will be a whirlwind of machine embroidery, sewing, and serging! I'll be going full blast with new tools and techniques, and it will be a sweatshop! I hope. 

Remember to check QUILTsocial to read more about the PFAFF powerquilter 1600. This is a great machine if you are in the market for a sit-down quilting machine. 

I finally contacted the lock company to get a replacement part for the handle on our front door. I'm tired of wrestling it open. Hopefully, they won't take long to get it to us. It's supposed to be covered by a lifetime warranty, and let's see what they say. I got all the terminology down pat except the name of the lever on the inside of the door. Latchbolts - thumb levers, spindles, you name it - I know those parts! 

I finished my audiobook last night. While it was good, I HATE That kind of ending. I guess it was OK, but the book itself is an interesting premise, to be sure. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.C. Schwab. I returned my overdue book and did NOT go in, as I did not want to be tempted to get anything! 

Well, it's time to get moving -- as usual, there are many things to accomplish, and everything takes much longer than planned. And I have two presentations today. 

Some people are struggling to follow the blog. People have moved to Follow-It and getting that sorted out. Someone reported that their Norton wouldn't bring it up. Why is that happening? I have zero control over that --, or if I have control, I know nothing about it. ACK!! If anyone knows anything, let me know. 

Have a super day!!!

Ciao!!!!