Tuesday, December 31, 2024

I've Been Better

Recently a former co-worker-turned-friend called me and asked the standard opening question - How are you? Unable to hide my sadness, because I had received yet another rejection email, I replied - I've been better.

I've been better


2024 was a horrible, terrible, very bad year for many reasons. Paul's mom passed. I lost my job. We were in a car crash. And those are just personal reasons. I cannot even begin to fathom the angst of the planet.

In a year so dark, it is easy to pinpoint the two bright spots:

1. Our long-awaited trip to Hawaii.

In Hawaii

2. My very first Improvisational Piecing Workshop. I was truly happy that day and I received excellent feedback.

Improv Class


Quilting wise, there were certainly some memorable moments, listed here in no particular order.


1. Diva was not only published in Make Modern's Issue 58, she also made the cover!  You can purchase a PDF copy of Diva in my Etsy Shop.


Grey Skies, Bright Quilt


2. Pesto Mushrooms was made for a 6-year old boy who loves the color Green and is fascinated with Mushrooms. I enjoyed making it and I am told the recipient is having fun with it. Mission Accomplished!

 

Happy Recipient!


3. Blush - A labor of love, I am thrilled with this finish.

Thank you, Bob


Thank you, Paul



4. Good Tidings was published in Annie's Christmas Pattern Book. I hope that the serene beauty of this quilt brings good tidings in the new year.




5. Aurelia was published in Make Modern's Issue 56 and is also available as a standalone pattern in my Etsy Shop. I am in love with Aurelia. Not my usual colors, but Aurelia has a regal and majestic vibe to her. Check out the Aurelia pattern on Etsy for a different colorway.


Blues and Purples


6. Bluey Boy - Initially difficult to manage (or potty train), Bluey Boy is my pet (pun intended) project of the year. Thanks to Funky Friends Factory and Island Batik for this adorable challenge. I had a great time with this photoshoot.

Walking on the banks of the Potomac

Such a Good Boy

Best Pet Ever!


7. Praying to Goddess Lakshmi - Ending this list with prayers to the Goddess for prosperity and well-being in the new year.


Marvelous Mini


The job search has been stressful and frustrating.  I am grateful for the love and unconditional support of my friends. You have kept me sane when I was going crazy and kept me together when I was falling apart.

With Mari in Raleigh for Quiltcon


Jennifer and Emily


Leah and Emily


With Roli - High school friends reunited after 30+ years


Manveen - You are my rock!


With Ruby and Savi in India


With Joyce on Mothers Day


I have no idea what 2025 will bring. I fervently pray for peace - both within and in the world. 

Celebrate safely. I will be back soon with new quilts and patterns too.

Sharing with all my favorite linky parties (see full list on the sidebar) and Meadow Mist Designs' Best of 2024 Linky Party.


Monday, December 9, 2024

Signal Sam

Do you remember Lula May?

The scraps leftover from Lula May became Signal Sam.

Signal Sam


Signal Sam is my response to the December Challenge which states "December brings another month to embark on your own project, regardless of its size, theme, or technique! Seize this chance to unleash your creativity without constraints. Enjoy the process!"




Leftover Strip from Lula May


There is something very satisfying about taking the scraps from a completed quilt and making a brand new one. I definitely enjoyed the process.


Bold and Beautiful


Signal Sam uses the Island Batik collection Celebrate, designed by Kathy Engle. The background is Solid Black.



The batting is Hobbs Cotton. I used Schmetz Microtex 80/12 Needle for both piecing and quilting. 

I used my walking foot to quilt squiggly lines 2" apart. The binding is a scrappy mix of Sunset, Lemongrass and Bumblebee from Island Batik Basics.


Scrappy Binding


Signal sam finished at 40" square and I am loving the bold, modern and minimalist vibe. What do you think? Isn't he handsome?


Handsome Finish!


I will be sharing with all my favorite linky parties and Yvonne's Favorite Finish for December. See full list on the sidebar.