Critter Block #2 Ms. Kitty

The second block on the Critter Quilt is Ms. Kitty.  We call Ms. Kitty our outside cat.  We don't have an inside cat, but Ms. Kitty is a real country cat and enjoys the wide open spaces.  She adopted us---I think many cats do that.  Anyway, we had just completed our home and she showed up.  We think she was originally from our neighbor's farm.  But she wanted to be in a catless home like ours---maybe the other cats made fun of her because of her crinkled ear. 

Anyway, she immediately introduced herself and it didn't take us long to realize she was with kittens.  A few weeks after her arrival, she had her kittens and hid them in the woods, but life is cruel  in the woods and the kittens disappeared.  Ms. Kitty was crushed and hunted for her babies for days.  She became with kittens again, but this time my son did some investigating and found her nest.  Put the kittens in a basket and Ms. Kitty followed her little family to our basement---where she raised them.  We were able to find homes for the kittens and realized that Ms. Kitty was really ours, so to the vets we went, she got a check up, shots and surgery--no more kittens.  Ms. Kitty is about 12 or 13 years old now and enjoys the lazy life on our deck, equipped with her own little house.  On the cold of winter days in Missouri she will snuggle in our furnace room where she raised her little family.  Her quilt block was easy to make---I stumbled on to a dog/cat fabric with a tiger cat.  A little more orange than Ms. Kitty, but it works,  so I just fancy cut it to feature her, added some triangles and a Lizard for color.  I will continue to add to this block, as it is a little small for what I have in mind.

I've added a Bee to the Keesha block---looks more complete.  As Always, Happy Quilting!

Patchwork Patches

Ever have a shirt you just love, but it's showing signs of disrepair???  I do---really it's one of my hubby's old blue jean shirts that I adopted as mine years ago.  My comfort shirt is in need of some repair, so using some liberated quilting, I patched a hole and covered a paint mark.  It's back in business.  I used a weaving technique I read about in Jude Hill's blog.  Simply choose your fabric and tear into strips, weave and stitch.

Great fun and a great look---even if it's just around the house.  Have a great Monday and Happy Quilting!

Sunday--Precious Promises

Dear friends, let us love one another, because love comes from God.  Whoever loves is a child of God and knows God.  Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.  I John 4:7-8

Critter Quilt Block #1 Keesha

Critter Quilt Update #1.  Block #1 is Keesha.  I used a light box, fabric pens and an old photo to reproduce our little Keeshound.  She was such a crazy dog.  Very ADHD is that is possible in a dog.  Most of our animals were adopted, in some cases rescued from difficult situations.  Keesha was a replacement dog and she was never able to live up to the expectations of the owners.  They wanted to get rid of her.  Plus the owner had heart problems and trust me Keesha was not a dog to own if you have heart problems.  Keesha was a member of our household for about 10 years.  Great dog, a real test of your patience.  Now about the quilt block.  I have some general thoughts in mind about the Critter Quilt.  Like, the fabric for the blocks will come from my bits and pieces bin.  The blocks will be liberated---no measuring here, just cut and create.  I may be adding embellishments and embroidery to the blocks---not sure as of yet, but will post any changes I make as I go along.  All the blocks will have one thing in common---the dark blue/purple border.  As I think about what to do next to the Keesha block, I wish you a great weekend and Happy Quilting!

Wordless Wednesday

$25,000 to AAQI---Yea!!

AAQI Awards $60,000 Research Grant!

Island Batik Donates $25,000 to AAQI

Posted on June 21, 2011 by AAQI Volunteer

Moira and Adam Dewar

Hold onto your hats!
Moira and Adam Dewar of Island Batik, Inc. have donated $25,386.00 to the Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative!
This is our largest donation to date. As in EVER!
Moira and Adam have been proud supporters of the AAQI through the Rose of Sharon project and have donated fabric for “Alzheimer’s Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope.” But this! OH MY GOODNESS!!!
Adam said, “We are very happy to give this money to the AAQI. We think they are doing fantastic work.”
We are ecstatic! Jump-up-and-down happy! Over the moon! THANK YOU!
There are an estimated 5.4 million Americans with Alzheimer’s. One in eight people age 65 has the disease. Right now. If you are a Baby Boomer, your age cohort is turning 65 at the rate of between 7,000 and 10,000 people a day. Chances are high that you will spend your retirement years either struggling with this vile disease yourself or taking care of someone who is.
Let Island Batik’s commitment to fighting Alzheimer’s be a challenge to every quilting industry leader to support the Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative. We fund research directly. 100% of the money that funds “our” research goes to budget, nothing to overhead. Our organization is run by volunteers and we spend zero money on fundraising. We are quilters doing what we love to do and making a difference. HELP US!

Critter Quilt Update

I've been working on my Critter Quilt, as I posted a couple of days ago.  But, I've taken a turn in a different direction, but still moving forward.  I've posted before that I'm really not a big quilt quilt maker.  I enjoy the smaller/mini quilts and so making a large quilt sends me into fits and I usually quit.  I'm determined to finish this large quilt.  That being said, I went to my sewing room enthused about starting a large medallion quilt---and I immediately hit a wall.  I'm not sure what it is about me and large quilts----but again I stopped.  Then, I thought of Jude Hill and her techniques of quilt making.  Jude many times makes smaller quilts and then puts them together to form a large quilt.  Maybe that is all large quilting is---anyway---I'm off an running again.  I decided to make the quilt by rows---concentrating on individual blocks and then putting them together with sashing I'll make from all my many different scraps.  I want the quilt to be whimsical, so I'm doing a little thinking before I stitch and enlisting the help of a couple of my quilting books.   All my blocks will be united by a solid base color---I've chosen a dark purple/blue fabric.  I'm going to take this slow, looking toward to completing each individual block (mini quilt) before getting ahead of myself and thinking of the completed project.  One step at a time or should I say One Block at a time.  Wish me luck and I'll be posting some updates now and then.  Happy Quilting!

Sunday--Precious Promises

For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.  John 3:16

Funny

I saw this clip on YouTube and just had to share it.  I know there is some editing going on, but watch those eyes.  Happy Saturday!!

Round 2 Completed Squares

I just posted the photo of my completed Round 2--Squares on the Liberated Round Robin Blog.  I had a little trouble with this round.  Again I auditioned many fabrics and squares---nothing seemed right.  Some how I came up with some little squares floating in a border.  I really want the squares to float a little more than they are, but the tell you the truth--I couldn't figure out how to do it.  So I'm starting another Medallion Quilt, for practice and I think it would be a great way to get the Critter Quilt underway.  Those of you who have followed my blog know that I'm a real animal lover--especially dogs I've started a quilt of my dogs and other animals, but really have not started putting it together, well I think I've got my idea in mind and I'm going to get started today with a nine-patch center block and build from there.  I'm not sure where I'm going with this, but I will keep you posted.  Off the the sewing room.  Happy Quilting!

Flag for AAQI

Just completed the little American Flag motif mini quilt for AAQI.  This little quilt is made with wavy red and white stripe fabric and a liberated star on navy blue with tiny white stars.  The little quilt measures 8x10 inches and can be hung in both horizonally and vertically.

So, when making hanging triangles on the back of the quilt---I made three.

Have a great weekend and make an AAQI quilt to donate it doesn't take long.  Happy Quilting!

Vintage Sampler

A few weeks ago I attended a wonderful auction---if you like quilts, cross stitch and collectibles for years gone by.  The house was well decorated with a wonderful collection of the things that warm the heart.  I was able to purchase a few quilts and this lovely cross stitch sampler.  The workmanship on this sampler and the quilts was excellent and you could tell the woman enjoyed the craft.  This is a good example of why it is important to label our completed quilts and other handwork.  I would have loved to known more about the woman who made this sampler and the quilts I purchased---I don't even know her name. 
I personally have a summer project underway of placing labels on the family quilts I own.  I still know the history and the next generation of owners may not---so join me in not only putting a little label on your creations but on the needlework creations of past family member's.  Have a great Wednesday and Happy Quilting!

Sunday---Precious Promises

Come near to God and He will come near to you.  James 4:8

The Story of Bear

 Bear and his litter mates were raised as hunting dogs.  They went to classes, learned the signals and became very well trained.  But, Bear was not to be a hunting dog---he was afraid of guns.  Bear's owner was into hunting dogs and really had no use for Bear so he gave Bear to a lady that had two boys.  What a good place for Bear---boys and a big yellow lab.  That lasted for a few years and then the boys became teenagers and the lady was going to remarry and Bear didn't fit into their lives.  My hubby heard about Bear's story from a fellow he worked with.  The more hubby listened to the fact that this was a great dog that was living in a windowless garage and had no place to run and no one to really care for him, the more hubby wanted to see this great dog.  We had two dogs at the time, but we live on three acres in the woods---ponds, trails and a love of animals---it could be a fit.  So we went to meet Bear after work one Thursday night and went back the next evening and picked him up.  Bear was as wonderful as everyone had said.  Bear was a gentlemen.  He was the politest dog we have ever owned---he asked permission before he did anything.  He and my hubby bonded as only a Man and his Dog could.    Bear was always by his side when there was work to be done in the woods or a walk on the Christmas tree farm, or a swim in the pond.  Bear loved his life in the country and we loved him.  We had Bear for 10 years of his 14 year life and they were great years with a great dog.  Today, we had to say goodbye to Bear---he is now at peace and healthy again, running, playing and enjoying the sunshine of a warm day at the Rainbow Bridge. 

AAQI News

AAQI Awards $60,000 Research Grant!

Posted: 09 Jun 2011 09:25 AM PDT

Dr. Alan Saltiel (Director of the Life Sciences Institute at University of Michigan), Dr. Mi Hee Lim (Principal Investigator), Ami Simms (Founder & Director, AAQI), and Dr. Jung-Suk Choi (Postdoctoral Fellow)

It was quite a day!
Anytime I write a check with a comma in the amount, my heart skips a beat. When the number in the little box has five digits, apparently I hyperventilate.
All I had to do was sign the check on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative (AAQI). Treasurer, Debbie Chenail had to write it out!
I’ve never been so happy to spend so much money.
And if you’re keeping track, the actual amount was $60,160.00. It was made out to the University of Michigan for Dr. Mi Hee Lim and her team to continue work on small molecules that break up deposits of amyloid plaque in the brain. That’s the substance that seems to cause cell death in Alzheimer’s. In smaller chunks, perhaps the amyloid plaque can be removed from the brain. Maybe they can figure out how to keep it from clumping together in the first place.
See theofficial news release.
As before, volunteers from the AAQI hand-delivered the check, met with the team of researchers, and toured the lab. We also brought quilts.
We hung quilts donated to the AAQI by quilters whose work was part of our first traveling exhibit, “Alzheimer’s: Forgetting Piece by Piece.” We brought some of the Name Quilts and smaller quilts from “Alzheimer’s Illustrated: From Heartbreak to Hope.” And we brought Priority: Alzheimer’s Quilts.
Several small quilts found new homes and the AAQI collected more money for research!
This research grant for the University of Michigan is the largest of the seven grants your quilting has funded so far. YOU have made this possible by donating quilts, by purchasing quilts, and by making monetary donations. With your hearts and your hands you are making a difference. For all of us who have lost someone we love to this horrific disease….THANK YOU!
And to the talented and dedicated researchers on “our” team…GODSPEED!
Celebrate this tremendous achievement by writing your own check to the Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative. Here’s how. If everyone reading this today sent just $5 we could make a pretty good dent on the next research grant award. Better yet…BUY A QUILT!
Pass it on!
Ami Simms
Founder & Executive Director, AAQI

Pear Blossom Fairy

I completed this little AAQI quilt last night.  I received this great piece of Blossom Fairy Novelty print from my Liberated Worldwide Swap partner.  The fabric contains about eight different Blossom Fairies.  So cute and perfect for a AAQI mini quilt.  This little fairy is setting in a Pear tree, hence, Pear Blossom Fairy.  I placed it on a silk upholstery fabric and backed with a white on white print.  Hand quilted with copper metallic thread and beads are place on the bottom edge and as accents in the Pear blossoms.  This little quilt was really fun to do.  The fairy and the Pear tree seemed to pop with each stitch.  The quilt is 8 x 10 inches. As Always, Happy Quilting!

It Sold

If you look closely you'll see my Nothin' Runs Like a Deere quilt.  I originally thought I would be making a twin size, but I just didn't have the time to complete a quilt that size,  so I turned it into a lap quilt or wall hanging.  I made the quilt to try out some liberated block ideas and I'm pleased with the experience and it sold at auction for $26.00.  Of course, I was hopeful that it would sell for more, but when I think of its size $26.00 is good.  The quilt is loosely hand quilted and has a comforter look and would be perfect in a little boy's room,  or on a wall.  Hope the new owners enjoy it.  Have a good Tuesday and Happy Quilting!

Ice Dreams---Yea!!

Our area of the country is under a Heat Advisory until Thursday.  I thought my new little AAQI quilt that I just completed would be perfect for this Hot Monday morning.

Polar Bear Ice Dreams is made up of three layers of background fabric going from dark blue, medium blue and then white.  The polar bear is from a novelty print fabric---that I love and have used before in AAQI quilts and I'm sure I will use again.  I just cut the bear from the fabric and attached it as I quilted with metallic silver thread.  The snowflakes are pieces of vintage tatting.  They made perfect snowflakes.  I feel cooler looking at the little quilt, hope you do too. 

On this hot morning I'm off to aerobics--hope they have the air on!!!  Have a great day and Happy Quilting!

Sunday--Precious Promises

Strive for perfection; listen to my appeals; agree with one another; live in peace.  And the God of love and peace will be with you.  2 Corinthians 13:11

Quilts for Sale

This little AAQI Quilt Top is not ready for sale, but there are hundreds of wonderful AAQI miniature quilts for sale.

Help AAQI make June the Best Sales Month.   You can find a great selection of unique AAQI quilts at http://www.alzquilts.org/quiltsforsale.html

Thrill a friend or relative with a gift of an AAQI quilt.  Your not only thinking of a loved one, but you're helping  Alzheimer Research.  AAQI mini quilts can be used as wall hangings, framed and hung as a conversation piece for any decor.   Miniature quilts can also be used as keepers of treasures or a Mug Mat that helps you to start your morning.   Or, just enjoy the art and workmanship that was put forth for the cause by the quilt maker.

Join the special group of people who support AAQI.   Buy a Quilt!
Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Quilting!

Oh My!

Returned from the vet's and was able to get Bear to eat some "home cookin"  Ground beef, rice and green beans with a syrup sandwich to top it off.  Seems his blood sugar is very low.  But, I'm afraid that is not all.  The vet just called with the results of his blood test and Bear is in Liver Failure.  Wow!  I really wasn't expecting that, but then again I knew things were not good.  So far now we are going to give him small meals, lots of home cooking and of course syrup sandwiches.  Of all the dogs we have ever owned, Bear is the most polite dog---very eager to please and just the greatest dog to be around.  Very gentle and reserved.  This will be difficult.

Discovered Editing Problem

I should have thought of this earlier---UPGRADE.  There is a new blogspot upgrade.  Once I found it, everything works.  Now I can edit, highlight and change fonts like usual.  So if anyone is having troubles with your blog--check out the settings.  Happy Quilting!

Dog Days of Summer---Already!!!

After all the rain and storms, things are heating up here in Missouri. I caught Bo taking a break on the cool rocks under a potted fern. Dog Days are in full swing. We have two Labrador Retrievers, Bo is part Lab and the youngest at 4. Bear is our Yellow Lab and older at 14. Today, Bear and I are going to make a trip to the vet's. He isn't eating and is just not himself.

He's usually a happy guy, he was being real cute here---looking for a hand out. But, lately Bear has been moving slower and slower. This is the hardest part of animal ownership---watching them age. My day will be devoted to Bear and doing some chores around the house, not sure how much quilting I'll get done. I'm presently working on a AAQI quilt---I'll be adding the final touches---beads. Wishing everyone a great weekend and as always Happy Quilting.

Repairs and Starting New

This week it's off to the repair shop for a good dusting and cleaning. This little inexpensive machine has served me well for about 10 years with only the little bit of cleaning and oiling I've done. Now since it is starting to squeak---deep in it's insides---I realized that I may need to get it to a professional. It still sews well, but I know with out proper care now I'll be replacing it later. So if I need to do some machine work I'll fall back on the Featherweight the "sweetheart" of my machines. She is about 73 years old and runs like dream.

In about a week, I'll have my machine back and it will be humming like a dream. And in about a week, these little guys will be thinking about making a new start themselves.

I was taking pictures in the garden a couple of days ago and realized that two Robins were really giving me a talking to. I turned around and on a low "eye level" branch of a tree I saw the reason for the lecture. It will be fun to watch these guys grow. Wishing everyone a happy Wednesday and as always Happy Quilting!

NOTE: Am I doing something wrong???? I don't know if it's me or Blogspot---I can not seem to highlight text to change colors, fonts, or even edit. Is anyone else having this problem or does anyone know the answer????