I don't know about you but I hear a lot of people talking about being stressed by too much to do right now, what with the holidays just around the corner. I confess being a bit overwhelmed myself but then this (Half Moon Modern by Moda)arrived today...
...and it made be stop, take a break and ponder the possibilites and the distraction made me forget about the "to do" list for a minute. Yesterday, we took a break from the regular duties around here and started a new shop project that involves this...
...and one of these new patterns.
It's going to be good.... These patterns are by Caroly Friedlander and I want to make them all. She was one of the new pattern makers at the market and I hope she keeps up the good work. Other new pattern makers are the Weeks Ringle and Bill Kerr duo. You may already be familiar with their books. In addition to another new book due out any day they are venturing into patterns...
...and a "magazine", although it works a little differently than a magazine. The back issues will be available indefinitely instead of off the shelves when the new issue comes out. In addition to 3 new patterns each issue will feature The Cutting Table, where the authors will present their thoughts on basic design and mixing fabric lines, and Palette Chasing, where you will be guided to find color inspiration. The first issue is here...
There are a couple of other new lines to the shop - Echo by Lotta Jansdotter...
and "Spring Rain" from Clothworks.
Last weekend, instead of baking holiday cookies I entertained myself by making a bag from a pattern I've been wanting to try out for a long time. The pattern, Sausilito, uses 6 fat quarters and goes together easily. I used some Amy Butler and Alexander Henry to make this...
Did I ever show you the completed quilt from Tina Givens line? This ought to speak to the "boho chic" amongst us.
On a side note, I learned a lesson the other day. I've been very bah humbug about the holidays (I think because neither of the boys can come home this year) and almost didn't go to the annual holiday get together of all the ladies I see at the gym everyday. I went and boy am I glad I did. These ladies who I exercise with at 6:00 am all have the kinds of jobs you have to wear skirts or slacks and grown up shoes to, you know - managers, nurses, administrators, doctors, caseworkers, teachers, etc. What do you think such a bunch of early rising hard working ladies do when they get together in the evening - discuss politics? social problems and solutions? Oh #%*@ no! They eat and drink and steal each other's gifts and.... cuss. We sounded like... well, I don't know what we sounded like but it wasn't pretty - and I haven't laughed that much in a long time. I am so glad I didn't stay home and wallow.
