Blessing in Abundance...

Did you have a good holiday weekend? I did and feel very blessed. Actually, all of last week was wonderful. My new pattern is doing very well. I need to post a list of online stores that are carrying it. Maybe not tonight, but tomorrow for sure. A friend of mine pointed out that the first prize on the prize list for the Mall Crawl is a "Sassy Sixteen" kit. It is a little odd to see something you put so much into popping in places you don't expect.

Which brings me to the name of my company... Divine Inspirations. I've been asked about the name and the answer is very simple. I want to honor God in everything I do. And the designs for both patterns came to me in such an amazingly fast way, like lightning striking (but in a good way) that I know without a doubt that He is the one who really deserves the credit. So, that is why I named the business Divine Inspirations.

I also felt blessed today with the Labor Day sales! Went to Hancock's and every single item I got was 50% off! One of the items I acquired was the Clover Bias Tape Maker. I hope it works well as I have needed to put some vines on a quilt forever.

Here is the second block in the "Quilt of Your Own" (QOYO) series.... sort of. I changed it quite a bit from it's original "Roman Stripe" pattern. I didn't want to make so many little squares, so I made them larger. And I didn't want to waste so much of the white fabric, so I just cut squares in half on the diagonal. Made long stripes and cut the triangles from those. I did have some leftover scraps from the stripes and will make a different block from those.

I'm obsessed with cutting right now. I cut the pieces for the next QOYO block. I'm working on the templates for the next BOM for the guild. I started cutting the FQs for my step-mom's next quilt. And tonight I'm going to cut some FQs for a demo for my sister's store. If time allows, I might even cut squares for some tessellated placemats. Cut, cut, cut, cut, cut.....

Little tote bag...

I made this earlier this summer. It is from the Quiltsmart pattern and is so easy, just two FQs and you are set to go...

I finished a BOM for our guild this week. I was actually turning it in late. It is called Star Spangled I think and is filled with those set-in seams... not a favorite of mine. But it turned out pretty well and now I can start thinking about the next one... Letha's Electric Fan. I'm having trouble deciding what fabrics to use.

I got a big box of fabric from my sister's store yesterday. :) It was mostly filled with Autumn fabrics. I'm going to make a "Sassy Sixteen" with them as a demo for her store. I hope to start working on it today.

However, first I need to add some leaves "appearing in a random fashion" to my Raspberry Tea in Tuscany quilt. Only three of them, all different.

I also wanted to start working on my third Quilt of Your Own block, however, I'm thinking of changing it around so my brain still needs to work a bit on that one.

I also want to start working on my step-mom's next quilt. It has a lot of Asian prints and I'm looking forward to it!

Oh, so many quilts, so little time....

A Quilt Of Your Own

A good friend of mine has challenged our guild members and I'd like to pass it on to all of you. We are to make a "quilt of your own", and you can't buy any fabrics to do it. Each month she'll give us a new block to do. We have only done two months so far, so you have plenty of time to catch up. The first one is Patience Corners. I changed the fabric placement a bit on mine, but it is a quilt "of my own" so I can do what I want with it. I encourage any of you who want to give it a try to do the same. But definitely make it "all about you".

SIL

Look at my gorgeous sister-in-law! We got this magazine from Northern CA in the mail a week or so ago. And right there on the back cover for this jewelry store ad was Jenai. The best part about her... she is even more beautiful on the inside.

The Jelly Maker's Cabin

Well it's official, my second pattern, "The Jelly Maker's Cabin" is now available. Several stores have already placed orders and I'll post a list of them soon. You can always get it directly from me though. The top is made entirely from 2 1/2" strips and goes together so quickly! I have to take a moment to thank my testers, couldn't have done it without you! While I think the color scheme I've used for the demo is perfect for the title and pattern, I can't help but wonder how lovely it might be in some light, romantic pastels...

Pay It Forward...

Okay, I'm ready to "Pay It Forward". I've been blessed by so much lately that I feel the need to bless others as well. Inspired from Jane's blog... http://piecefuljane.blogspot.com/ .

I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I have no idea what this gift will be, but I promise to my heart and mind into it and that it will be done within a year's time... probably a lot less, but let's give myself some extra time just in case.

The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog. It is that simple, you just pay it forward to three more people. So if anyone is interested and wants to join in feel free. It is always fun to receive and even more fun to give, so don't make me wait too long... join in the fun!

Happy Feet

Gentry wanted a penguin quilt for his birthday because he loves Happy Feet. I had a terrible time finding a cute penguin fabric. Finally found the dancing penguins on blue fabric at the AQS show in Paducah, but it was part of a pillowcase kit along with the red and the black/white striped. So, I got two kits. Then I found an applique pattern of the dancing penguins, it was very "folk art" looking with earthy tones, felt and button hole stitches, but they were dancing so I knew I could use it. I decided to do the watercolor technique for the water, ice, mountains and sky. And the bow tie blocks were a must because I kept thinking... penguins... tuxedos. I added snowflake buttons and then some penguin buttons on mountain in the background. He loved it. I'm so glad as it was a bit of work.

Gentry's Birthday

Another month gone by again? How does that happen? I guess we all get busy though don't we? I have lots to share though... I promise to post each day until I'm all caught up!

First of all, my sweet little man turned 6! Here are his birthday pics...

Wow, when did he get so big?

Well, since my babies are growing so fast we considered getting a puppy... something little that wouldn't get very big, unlike my children. We had an opportunity to have the most beautiful Chihuahua I've ever seen, we all fell madly in love with her. Next thing you know, my face is swollen up like a balloon, my eyes just slits. So, no puppy and we were all heartbroken. We already knew cats were not an option, both Hailey and I are allergic. But the dog allergy was a new one!

Okay, next post will have some quilty pics, I promise!

Over A Month???

Oh my, I had no idea that it had been so long since I posted last! Where does the time go? All is well here, but very busy as usual.

The end of June, we went to Roanoke, Virginia for a family reunion. It was a great time. Nice to see those that I haven't seen in the last two years. The area was gorgeous. We went to the Dixie Caverns in Salem. And hubby played golf on a course with a hole that is actually a Par 6! Two of the area quilt stores are now carrying my pattern, which was also exciting. The weather there was great! I would love to visit again.

So far in July, I've been busy with all sorts of quilty stuff. I'm on the board of the guild now in charge of programs and trying to adjust to the work involved. I'm also on the retreat committee for next year's retreat. So, I'm really trying to adjust to my "new hats". I've come up with some fun ideas that I'll share with you all later. But I'm always open to suggestions from all of you creative ladies and gents.

I bought a new sewing machine while getting my other one fixed, which it is fixed now thank God. I got a Janome Sew Mini from the Hancock's. It is not a bad little machine. Perfect for just getting your piecing done and has a great stitch. It is also so light that I just pop it into a little tote and sling it over my shoulder like a purse. It is actually much lighter than my purse. So, it is perfect for taking back and forth to classes and sewing groups.

In addition to the typical BOM guild blocks, I've been busy with Gentry's quilt and the one for my next pattern... I'll call it JMC for now. I have finished the top and will hopefully get it basted soon. I want to the pattern to be available before the end of August. As for Gentry's... well, I'm not nearly as far along as I should be. Shame on me! But that is the only thing I'm going to work on tonight, tomorrow and the weekend. I also made a little purse/tote/bag from a Quiltsmart pattern. It was very easy and turned out well. I'll try to get some pictures soon.

Finally, I'm in Harry Potter land now that the 7th book is out. I had the hubby go out at 11:30 at night last weekend to be there when it went on sale at Midnight. Yes, I admit I was bad and woke him up. I am reading it very slowly, savoring each and every word. I'll be sad when it ends. But we probably still have more movies to look forward to. I haven't seen the one that is out now. We usually wait until they come out on DVD.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Birthday????

Was it really my birthday yesterday or did I just imagine it? My parents forgot it was my birthday, imagine their surprise when my 5 year old, Gentry informed them. I also did not receive even one telephone call from anyone in my family or my husband's. Thank God for my wonderful quilty friends that still make me feel loved.

I do have good productive news though! I finished the Challenge blocks and they are on their way to the wonderful host to be sorted and sent out. The challenge was based on women's issues and each person picked their own issue, a block that could be associated with that issue and then a preferred fabric that would be used in all blocks that would come back to you. So, my issue was "Woman in Christ" and I picked a cross block. I picked a beige print to send out to everyone for them to make my blocks. As you can see from the picture, the fabrics I received from all the other ladies led to very different results. Which one do you like best???

A few more updates on my pattern... It is now in the Product Spotlight at the QuiltIndex, thanks to the "Always Open Quilt Shop" and can also be found listed in their newsletter. I hear the kits for it are flying off the shelves at the "Lazy Mazy Quilt Shop" and the variety of options is growing. Several other stores have purchased it as well and I'll be sure to provide a link as soon as the patterns are posted.

Do you like kits???

Well, if you do, you will love the Lazy Mazy Quilt Shop! They are the newest carrier of Sassy Sixteen and she has taken all of the guess work out for you by providing the FQs, binding fabric and pattern all together! Oh, and she also has the most amazing Kaleidoscope kits! They do all the fussy cutting for you!!! You must check it out!

On a personal note... still haven't finished those last three challenge blocks... shame on me. :(

My Little Grad...

Gentry graduated from Kindergarten last month. He was very proud of himself. Being that we homeschool, we took him to an outdoor stage in a park for the little celebration. Then he got to choose where to go for dinner... IHOP. LOL!

Hello, Monday

I am hopeful for another great week. Last week was wonderful on all counts. I cannot believe how much I was able to accomplish while my children were at VBS. It was amazing! Their end program was so adorable. I wish I had pictures! The theme was Sonforce Agents, so they became very secret agent like with thumbprints taken for imaginary scans, dark sunglasses, etc. They had a great time! They might go to another church for VBS this week. So, maybe I'll be really productive again!

I have 8 of those WI Challenge blocks done! I really hope to finish the remaining 3 tonight and then I can stop thinking about them and really focus on Gentry's birthday quilt. It is a penguin quilt for my happy footed child.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the online stores that currently have my pattern available. I have started a list on the sidebar, but want to take a moment to tell you about each place. First of all, Always Open Quilt Shop, is so precious! If you haven't been there, be sure to visit. The owner, Denise, is such a dear sweet lady! Next, on the list is C & G Crafts. A great place to shop for all sorts of crafts, from needlework to painting to scrapbooking. Oh, and "C" is for my sister, Cathie. She has just opened a "brick and mortar" store in addition to her web store. I'm so proud of her! Take a moment to visit these sites whether you are interested in my pattern or not, you won't regret it!

I wish you all a glorious start to your week! God bless!

When it rains, it POURS!

No, I'm not talking about actual rain. God knows we really need that! I am talking about my pattern! Everyday since Saturday a store has purchased my pattern. I'm going to work on a list of the online carriers to have here on the sidebar. What has surprised me the most is that all three LQS wanted it! My hope was one, but three, talk about blessed!

My initial draft of my second pattern should be finished by the end of the weekend. Then it off to the pattern testers. My goal is for it to be available by the end of the Summer, but it could be much sooner. It is a great pattern for the Fall season though.

I worked on my UR block last night. We are doing the Crossroads block this time. Simple but nice. I also worked on a Challenge block. I can't wait until those are all done so I can post a picture.

I've decided I need a new machine. Mine was used when I got it and that was nearly 12 years ago. I had it serviced, but didn't seem to help much, it at all. I want another Pfaff, went to the store, checked out prices. I don't know how I'll ever be able to get one! But, I am definitely going to start saving my pennies now. If I sell about 475 patterns and there are no family emergencies, I might just be able to get one. LOL!

More Good News

Got a call yesterday afternoon from a different LQS. They bought 10 patterns right away. This has all gone amazingly well. I give praise to God for blessing me so far. There is one more LQS to check with this next week and then I'll focus on the online stores.


However, if any of you want a pattern in the meantime, just send me your email address. I'll send you an invoice from Paypal for $10.50 ($8.00 for the pattern and $2.50 S&H). And here is another picture of my "Sassy Sixteen". I call it "Midnight in the Garden."


Well, I have completed 4 out of 11 of my challenge blocks. I have until the end of the month to finish them. Once I have them all done, I'll get a picture for you so you can see how different they all are using the same pattern.

I have finally started working on Gentry's quilt... cutting lots of 2 1/2" squares.

I have also spent a great deal of time working on my new pattern! Found one little bump in the road, but I think I have it all ironed out. Stayed up late last night working on graphics for it. I hope to start sewing on it this week, but I really want the written pattern done first so I can check it as I go.

And finally, at some point today, I'll have to work on my Underground Railroad blocks. The class meets next Saturday and I haven't started on it yet.

Good News

Just a quick post tonight. Good news, one of the LQS is carrying my pattern now. They bought six copies today. I might try to make up a quilt for them if I can find the time. Bought my jelly roll for my new pattern, can't wait to work on that. But I still have to finish my challenge blocks, only have 2 of the 11 done. Gentry also keeps asking about how I'm doing on his quilt, which is still on paper. Maybe I'll have time tomorrow to get a lot of sewing done.

Hailey's 9th Quilt

Here are some pictures of Hailey with her latest birthday quilt. She looks so little in comparison to it. I'll try to get a picture of it full and flat later on. The top is identical to the bottom with the 9 fan blade blocks in the middle.

Spent a great deal of time last night working on a new pattern. This one is for those sweet jelly rolls. Sadly, I have yet to purchase any. I guess I'll have to do that for research. ;-)

I am starting this holiday season off with a quilty day. Or at least that is my plan. We'll see how well my family cooperates.

My first job is to make a couple of blocks for my the challenge quilt. It is a Women's Issues Challenge Quilt.

After that I have to start cutting 2 1/2" squares for Gentry's quilt. I need Somewhere between 330 and 400. I bought all of the fabric for it last night. At least, I think I did.

If time allows, I'd like to make a computer mock up of that new pattern I was sketching out last night.

Long time, no see...

Yes, I'm referring to myself. Sorry for being gone so long. I could offer all the reasons for my delay in posting, but no reason to bore you or bother you with issues already resolved. So, let's just say I'm back again. :)

I finished my daughter's quilt just in time for her birthday in April. I'll post a pic next time.

I also finished my quilt and have the pattern ready for sell. I've sold several patterns the last few days and am excited that someone would appreciate my work. Here is a picture...

It is called Sassy Sixteen. It is 54" x 66" and is made from 16 FQs. I'm taking orders by receiving email addresses and then sending invoices/receiving payment through Paypal. I will eventually send the pattern to online vendors and/or have my own site. But until then this will have to do. I'm taking the pattern to the LQS this weekend...wish me luck!

Now, I'm working on blocks for a Women's Issues Challenge Quilt. I'm also getting started on my son's bday quilt. Too many quilts, so little time. LOL!

Finally, I need to update my UFO list...

UFOs 2007

Needs to be quilted and bound...

• Twisted Sisters Quilt
• Rejoice Quilt
• Sampler of Psalms Quilt
• Jacob's Ladder Quilt
• Katydid Mystery Quilt
• Raspberry Tea in Tuscany Quilt
  

Needs to be pieced, quilted and bound...

• Autumn wall-hanging
• Jack-o'-lantern wall-hanging
• Christmas Quilt 1
• Christmas Quilt 2
• Charm Quilt
• Autumn Sampler Quilt
• Mystery #122A Quilt
• Mystery #122B Quilt
• Christmas Greetings Table Runner
• Retreat Swap Christmas Quilt
• Judy's Quilt
• Ostrich Challenge Quilt
• Hailey's Round Robin Quilt

I'm Back!

Wow, what a roller coaster it has been around here lately! A week and a half before Christmas, our car and computer died on the same day... before noon! What a way to start the day. Well, we managed to get a new car, thank God. And the computer is working now... sort of. We need a new hard-drive as this one will crash again soon. Just hoping it will hold off until we can buy a new computer.

We did have a wonderful Christmas, as I hope all of you did. And our New Year is off to a pretty good start.

I have a lot of pictures that I need to post, but have to install the camera stuff and graphics program back on the computer first... not sure when that will be.

In the meantime... I am going to post my UFO list for the year to help me focus on what I need to work on.

UFOs 2007

Needs to be quilted and bound...

• Twisted Sisters Quilt
• Rejoice Quilt
• Sampler of Psalms Quilt
• Jacob's Ladder Quilt
• Katydid Mystery Quilt
• Sassy Sixteen Quilt
• Raspberry Tea in Tuscany Quilt

Needs to be pieced, quilted and bound...

• Autumn wall-hanging
• Jack-o'-lantern wall-hanging
• Christmas Quilt 1
• Christmas Quilt 2
• Charm Quilt
• Autumn Sampler Quilt
• Mystery #122A Quilt
• Mystery #122B Quilt
• Hailey's Birthday Quilt
• Christmas Greetings Table Runner
• Retreat Swap Christmas Quilt
• Judy's Quilt
• Ostrich Challenge Quilt
• Hailey's Round Robin Quilt

There may actually be others, but for now this is what I can recall. Still, it is a bit too long and I'm definitely ashamed of myself.

Meow

Well, it is has been awhile... I've been busy as usual, but spreading my creative wings in a different direction. Hailey is going to be in a Christmas program this weekend and will be a cat. She needed a costume. I didn't have a pattern as I don't "sew", I "quilt". And I don't know enough about patterns to know what would be best to buy. So, I let her pick out some fabric and sat in the middle of the living room floor with my scissors and this is what I came up with. I thought it turned out rather well considering it was my first costume. I was really stressed out about how I was going to do it, but once I got started, it all kind of came together. It must have been a blessing from God Himself. I used fleece, so she can wear it for pajamas after the play is done. I feel better about spending the time and effort knowing she'll wear them more than just for the play. I've also been making some ornaments. Do any of you have any favorite ornaments you enjoy making? I'm always looking for new ideas.