Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #35 - "Pinwheel Blocks"

Block #35 - "Pinwheel Blocks"

Started on 7/11/11

Completed on 7/11/11

Technique: Piecing

This was so fun to make. I love the sharpness and angles of this block. The only pinwheel quilt I've made before was in quilting classes and it ended up being for my Trinity. She loves it and helped pick out the fabrics. I'll include a picture of her quilt today.

Quilting has been so therapeutic for me this week. It has been an escape from negative thoughts. (It puts me in such a happy place to quilt.) I've had my Women of Faith dvd's on which have been quite uplifting. I listened to the book "Captivating" on CD. Parts of it were looney to me but other parts of it spoke directly to my inner most person.

I have spent so much time in the Word since April. I have felt things changing in my heart and my connection to God growing. It irks me that the trials of late seem to be a declaration of spiritual warfare. What if there's a kink in my armor?

Father, keep my eyes on You. Keep the arsenal coming to fight the good fight. And, if it isn't too much to ask, wake Courtney up soon!

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #34 - "Apple & Apricot Blossoms"

Block #34 - "Apple & Apricot Blossoms"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

Blocks completed to date: 71 of 121

This is another block I enjoyed making. Cute and simple to do. I've never seen a real apple blossom. Now that I think about it, that's weird.

Here's a tidbit. I can make apple blossoms out of icing. They are one of the flowers I learned to make (and one I taught others to make) in Cake Decorating Classes.

Despite the trials of late, I'm trying to stay positive. Quilting has been keeping me sane and given me a much needed distraction!

Father, ease our hearts. Bring healing to Courtney. Shower us with comfort, peace, and grace.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #33 - "Log Cabin Quilt"

Block #33 - "Log Cabin Quilt"

Started on 7/11/11

Completed on 7/11/11

Technique: Piecing

This was the first type of block I learned to make when I took my first quilting classes in January 2008. I've made two log cabin quilts and oddly enough they were made for my husband and myself. His is an LSU Log Cabin and mine is, well, it's not! Ha. I love mine very much.

I found time today to work on more blocks for this quilt. I guess it was more like I made time. I needed to get my mind off of the loss of our Golden Retriever, Simba, yesterday. And then of course there's my cousin Courtney who is still battling for her life in I.C.U. in Shreveport. I'm a little overwhelmed right now but prayer is keeping me sane. I always wonder how people without faith get through difficulties in life.

Father, thank You for today. Thank You for my life and my family and the infinite blessings and grace you've bestowed on me.

Blessings!

Here's the other two Log Cabin quilts I've made:

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #32 - "Spring Flowers"

Block # 32 - "Spring Flowers"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

Oh I love this block! I had so much fun putting it together. This is the most successful I've ever been creating anything that blossoms. (And keeping it blooming!)

I often tell people I have a black thumb. That is way more advanced at plant killing than those with brown thumbs. Our house sitter gets a kick out of the fact that I had a half dozen or so plants when she started working for us and now I'm down to only zero.

I do appreciate those with a green thumb. And I appreciate the value and beauty plants bring to our world. Just don't let me near them.

The lighter color petals are made from the backing Trinity chose for a throw quilt I made for her. The words on it say Love, Charity, and Faith (her middle name). I have used using scraps of it here and there throughout the quilt and I really like that. It shall show up again.

Father, I have more on my heart tonight that I can put into words. I ask the Holy Spirit to intervene for me and lift my cares and worries directly to You, Great Physician, Beginning and End.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #31 - "Wool Fan Quilt"

Block # 31 - "Wool Fan Quilt"

Started on 7/10/11

Completed on 7/11/11

Technique: Piecing and Applique'

I'm freshly back from Yellowstone National Park. We had a fabulous time but I have to admit, I missed blogging! I think blogging about quilting is pretty awesome.

So ... Wool! I have not used any wool fabrics yet in my projects but I frequently use wool batting. Initially I used it because I thought I would like it. Then, I fell in love with the way it looks once quilted. Now, I've had a quilt with wool batting on my bed for a month or so and I love the utility of it. It is summer full throttle here in Grand Junction and we are sleeping so comfortably. We stay warm without sweating and it is blessed!

I am not sure it would be as easy to hand quilt through this batting. Once I learned to machine quilt I cast aside the idea of hand quilting for awhile.

My block was done a bit awkwardly. I was working on it late one evening and my tired brain was having a hard time wrapping around how to put this block together. I ended up applique'ing the fans onto squares of the background fabric. I think I have since figured out how I would do it differently.

My prayer for today is completely unrelated to this quilt block, fyi.

Father, wrap your ample arms around my cousin Courtney and bring her back to us with her full health restored. Wake her up with a healed mind and heart and let her continue to shine her precious light on the lives of so many.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #30 - "First Robin"

Block #30 - "First Robin"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

The letter that goes with this block talks about, as you might guess, seeing the first robin of the year. Immediately, one song that tells a story about a robin came to mind and since that was all I could think of, I suppose I must share it.

Broken Wing (as recorded by LeAnn Rimes)

Today I watched a robin in our front yard

I thought by now that they should all be gone

With winter around the corner

And the snow on its way

Surely, there must be something wrong

Then in that old oak tree I finally saw her

Where she sat gazing down upon her mate

And the song that she was singing

Seemed to say, "I'll be right here.

I'd like to go but your love's made me wait."

He's got a broken wing and that's why he can't fly

She just can't leave him there, so she stays by his side

They're just like you and me

Oh you should of heard her sing,

"Don't give up, it's just a broken wing."

I wish we all could learn what they seem to have found

To love our family when trouble comes around

I'll bet that God saw fit to show them unto me

Him on the ground, her in that tree.

Isn't that just the most precious little song? It gave me goosebumps the first time I heard it. I performed it somewhere, maybe my sister Kara's graduation party? I just love, love, love it.

Father, let us learn from the robins of the air, how to help each other and love each other through the hard times. Heal our broken wings Father. We all have them in one way or another.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #29 - "Buggy Accident"

Block #29 - "Buggy Accident"

Started on 7/10/11

Completed on 7/10/11

Technique: Piecing and Templates

Blocks completed to date: 68 of 121

I wish I had a magical solution to keep cars from colliding with Amish buggies. It bothers me that the Amish are in more danger than the cars zipping around them often in way too much of a hurry.

I really love this block. I copied the colors from the book and I love how well they go together.

I haven't talked much about my interest in all things Amish have I? I read Amish fiction non-stop. I also read non-fiction about them as well. I admire their simplicity. Sometimes I wish I was raised Amish so that I would not have become addicted to television and then later to the computer.

I mostly admire the caring relationships the Amish form. The younger generations take care of the older ones by having them in their own house attached to the home of their children and grandchildren. They care for the members of their church family when they are in need. From taking over chores around the home or bringing meals when someone is sick or passes away to rebuilding barns and homes that are destroyed by fires or weather. And the fact that they don't have to carry insurance because they help each other out financially when needed speaks volumes for the Christian love they show to each other.

All churches could learn a thing or two from the Amish about how God intends for us to look out for each other.

Father, help me watch for ways others are in need and let me show your love to them with care and aide.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #28 - "Box Social"

Block # 28 - "Box Social"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

I didn't read the letter that went with this block until just now. It made me pause and have to catch my breath. A box social was held to raise money for a family whose five month old baby had an inoperable brain tumor. Oh the thought of it has me stirred.

The process of this event was quite interesting. I think it would be so fun to see young people in our community do this. The girls made meals or picnics which they placed in wrapped gift boxes. The boys bid on these boxes and I'm guessing got to feast on the contents maybe with the girl who made it.

I loved making this block and it is even more precious to me now that I've absorbed the story behind it.

Father, thank You for the health of my children. Help me not take a moment of their lives for granted.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #27 - "Ice Harvesting"

Block #27 - "Ice Harvesting"

Started on 7/10/11

Completed on 7/10/11

Technique: Piecing

I will most likely redo this block. The part that looks tan actually looked gray when I bought it. But up next to the blues it looks way off. It looks more tan in person than it does in the picture.

Harvesting ice blocks to fill your icehouse is a concept that could not possibly be more foreign to me. Growing up in Texas we never had ice that could be harvested. Plus, in my lifetime, I've always lived in a home that had a refrigerator and freezer in it.

I am intrigued with the show Sister Wives on TLC. The large family on there went ice blocking, at least I think that's what they called it. I'd never heard of it before. They bought huge blocks of ice and would sit on them and slide down hills as if they were sledding. Interesting I thought.

Father, thank You for refrigerators. Thank You for electricity. Thank You that we can store food to keep it from spoiling. We are far more blessed than a large portion of the world.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #26 - "Butchering the Pigs"

Block # 26 - "Butchering the Pigs"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

Isn't this little piggie so cute?

So the title of this block is pretty self explanatory. It leads me to a time of confession for anyone who might read this. When it comes to animals and the consumption of them, I am a hypocrite in denial in a big way.

I love meat. I live on it. Not being a leaf eater I would most likely starve to death if I gave up meat. However, I would give it up, if I could, on behalf of animals and my love for them.

I have to stay away from thinking about how the animals "get dead" as my kids would say. I will never be able to watch "Food, Inc." although I am probably quite sympathetic to the concerns and worries expressed in the film.

I have to say that I will continue to eat meats and I suppose I'll just pretend they come from the fridge or from the guy at the grocery store. Everyone let me stay in my happy place where animals roam free and meat just appears on the stove. Already cooked is even better.

Father, thank You for providing for our needs. And thank You, Lord, for keeping your eyes on even the sparrows.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 25 - "Roman Stripes"

Block # 25 - "Roman Stripes"

Started on 7/9/11

Completed on 7/10/11

Technique: Piecing

The writer of the letter that goes with this block talks of quilting a Roman Stripes quilt that her mother had made with scraps of cloth from clothing the family had worn. Her mother had recently passed away so it was bitter sweet to work on this quilt.

I'm blessed to still have my mother alive and well. She is only 18 years older than me so I'm hoping that gives me a good chance of having her around a good portion of my life.

It was just me and "Mudder" for a few years there. She worked at Timberland Insurance in Lufkin, TX, which isn't there any more. She had to drop me off at daycare which I greatly protested in the wisdom of my "youngsterness".

She taught me many things through the years. She taught me to sing very early in my life. It is in our DNA I suppose but she ingrained in me a love for music. I was one of the only kids who ever knew John Denver, Anne Murray, and Helen Reddy. Those were the LP records most often played on Saturdays as we cleaned the house.

Thank You, Father, for the gift of music and for using my mother as a vessel to teach me to appreciate it.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 24 - "Sleigh Ride"

Block #24 - "Sleigh Ride"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

Record high temperatures are soaring across the country and here I am writing about a sleigh. Be honest, a sleigh ride through snow covered hills sounds lovely right now. Although I've never ridden in a sleigh, I've been in a carriage a few times.

Mark and I took the kids on a horse pulled carriage ride while we were in Galveston, TX, a couple of weeks ago. We had just left a restaurant because our six year old was so out of sorts that we decided a good meal wasn't worth the strife. We were all cranky and tired and grieving the loss of a dear friend. As we left the restaurant and headed through the Strand area, we passed by two or three carriages waiting for fares.

All four of us perked up and were in agreement that it did, indeed, look like a lot of fun. Mark and I were $8 short on cash to pay for it so the kids pulled out their wallets and pitched in $4 each! It felt meant to be.

We had a lovely ride as the sun was going down and it felt as if God had calmed the storms that were raging around us.

Thank You, Father, for your peace that passes understanding. You offer it to us sometimes before we even know we need it.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 23 - "Nine-Patch Quilt"

Block #23 - "Nine-Patch Quilt"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Piecing

The author of the letter that goes with this block talks of two things I'd like to discuss.

First of all, she mentions family get togethers and how at them they have a singing. This brings back so many good family memories for me since my family often did the same thing when we got together. For that matter, we still do when we have the chance.

I was raised in the Church of Christ which uses only a'cappella music for their worship. A large portion of my mother's family is part of the same church so when we were all together we would sing and sing and sing ... and then sing some more. 4 part harmonies with your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins around gave you a glimpse of what Heaven might be like. I know now what a great gift that was and how special those times were.

The other thing that caught my attention was the hand piecing of quilt blocks together. While I have a healthy appreciation for those who have the patience, talent and time to piece by hand (and quilt by hand for that matter) I don't know that I would quilt much if I didn't have a machine to do most of the stitches.

When I initially took quilting classes I included a hand quilting class. I enjoyed learning the techniques and I could do it if I had to. I've done very little of the hand quilting though and grow tired of how long it takes to complete a project that way.

Today is my 16th wedding anniversary so if you'll indulge me, my prayer today will be related to that rather than my quilting.

Heavenly Father, I thank You for the gentle man that shares my life. I thank You for the marriage of our hearts and souls that You continually bless and nourish. Thank You for loving me enough to design such a perfect match for me and for giving us the 16 years together we've had so far.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 22 - "Quilt Shop"

Block #22 - "Quilt Shop"

Started on 7/7/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

To date I have 53 blocks completed. I have only worked on a couple of them for the passed week or so because I had the mystery quilt project to catch up on and then complete. With that done, I can focus some more on my Amish project!

The author of the letter that went with this block talks of working at a quilt shop. I would love to do that if the time comes when I need to work. I prefer, I think, sitting at my machine and putting quilts together. But if I had to get a job it would be so fun to visit with quilters all day and work with notions and fabrics.

I used the monogramming feature on my Janome to add the words "Quilt Shop" to my block. Totally not an Amish thing to do I'm sure, but since I am not Amish I suppose I can get away with it. Gimme a shout out if you think this block is TOO CUTE!

I love to visit quilt shops. The craftier, homier ones with personality are my favorites. I went to one in a warehouse outside of Lafayette, LA, once and while I got some great LSU fabric, the atmosphere was not to my liking.

Father, thank You for letting me find the thing I love to do. Besides being a wife and mother, which are the greatest blessings in my life, You've given me a craft that I enjoy so much and have the ability to do.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 21 - "Winds and Snow"

Block #21 - "Winds and Snow"

Started on 7/8/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Piecing

I love the look of this block. I was very impressed that I could easily put together all of the little parts of this block. It made me feel very good about the quality of the classes I took to learn to quilt.

Grand Junction, CO, where we live now gets a respectable amount of snow each winter. People here tend to complain about it but I never do. I love to sit and drink my coffee and watch the flakes falling down. I love turning on the fireplace and snuggling with the kids on the couch as we read together.

Thank You, Father, for the peacefulness and beauty of snowflakes falling down.

Blessings!

Facebook friends?

I know there are a lot of different people reading my blog now and checking my quilt progress. I wanted to tell you that I post pictures of my completed quilts on my facebook page so if you are interested in being facebook friends, and would like to network with another quilter, I would love that. Simply send me a friend request and include a message that you found me through my blog. My full facebook name is Lesa May Brassette.

Until tomorrow ....

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #20 - "Pumpkins"

Block #20 - "Pumpkins"

Started on 7/7/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

Pumpkin pie? Pumpkin bread? Pumpkin spice? The idea makes me almost giddy for Fall to arrive. My wonderful husband, Mark, usually carves at least one pumpkin with the kids each year. I discovered early on that I don't like the ookieness of a pumpkin's "guts".

I like to buy a couple of small pumpkins to decorate the kitchen or dining table. I love the look of pumpkins. And I suppose I like the smell of pumpkins. I've never been fond, though, of the taste or texture of said pumpkins. But more power to all of you who like them. Whatever floats your boat.

Father, thank You for the change of seasons. Thank You for Fall, especially, with its cooler temperatures and the beauty of the falling leaves.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block # 19 - "Surprise Quilting"

Block # 19 - Surprise Quilting

Started on 7/7/11

Completed on 7/7/11

Technique: Piecing and Template

The writer of the letter that goes with this block describes a surprise quilting that was thrust upon her at her own home. Several women showed up with lunch and helped her complete a quilt she already had on the frame. And she was thrilled!

I have two very distinct, mixed feelings on the idea of such a thing.

If a group of women showed up at my house this minute I would be too mortified to let them in. The house is strewn out and in need of cleaning. (This is the norm, no special excuses or circumstances.) I would have no chance of enjoying myself with the current state my home is in.

On the other hand, I would give anything to gather around a quilt frame with other women to catch up on their lives and to relax and have fun quilting! Women need this. They need to circle up and giggle and cry and be a part of each other's lives.

Father, thank You for the friends I've made in Grand Junction. Thank You that I have a number of people I can call on when I need an ear to listen or a shoulder to lean on.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #18 - "Schoolhouse"

Block #18 - "Schoolhouse"

Started on 7/7/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Applique'

One room schoolhouses. Anybody else find them to be totally cool? I love to see pictures and movie or television scenes set in such schoolhouses.

I've been watching old episodes of "Little House on the Prairie". I'm on Season 3 now. I love this show. Watching it is the perfect thing to do while working on quilt projects in my woman cave. Miss Beatle is currently the one room schoolhouse teacher.

The idea of one teacher offering instruction to 30 to 40 children of different ages and grade levels floors me. I teach two children at home and going back and forth between them gets kind of nutty sometimes. I forget William can't read cursive writing yet and that Trinity can quickly add math facts in her head.

As a child I aspired to be a teacher. As an adult I was afraid I'd lose my religion on the first parent that took me to task on the education of their own little angel. (I considered Veterinary Medicine after that. However, since I knew I wanted to stay home with my babies it seemed really futile to go to school for 8 years for a degree I really didn't want to have to use.)

Anyway, now I'm a stay at home mother who gets to be teacher to my own children and it is my dream come true.

Father, thank You for your faithfulness. Thank You for making simple dreams come true. Thank You for giving me a husband who supports our family and my endeavors to train up our children in Your service.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #16 - "Maple Leaf"

Block #16 - "Maple Leaf"

Started on 6/28/11

Completed on 7/8/11

Technique: Piecing and Applique'

I love this block. I probably didn't do it properly but I had a hard time figuring out the best way to do the stem. I pieced the leaf parts together and then applique'd on the stem. Probably not proper but I like the way it turned out.

The writer of this letter and designer of this block talks of watching the leaves fall from the trees in September and October. That is something I adore about living in Colorado. I grew up in Texas where we seemed to have only one season. It was called hot and humid. In Colorado we have four very distinct seasons and Fall is my absolute favorite.

We live very near the Grand Mesa and it is a very popular spot for viewing Fall foliage. When the Aspens start changing colors it truly is a sight to behold. Pair that with the refreshing, cooler temperatures and you will find a little piece of Heaven on earth.

Father, thank you for the beauty of this world. The trees, the mountains, and the splendor of Your works let me know that I come from a God who shares my love of expressing creativity.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - #16 - "Apple Orchards"

Block # 16 - "Apple Orchards"

Started on 6/27/11

Completed on 6/27/11

Technique: Applique'

The writer of this letter and designer of this block talks of apple orchards. I love apples. For someone who in general is not a plant eater, I do really love apples.

As each of my kids went through Kindergarten (at home) we would get to their a-a-apple unit. We loved it. We would buy one of every kind of apple we could find and have a taste party. I learned as much as they did about apples and their uses and flavors. I discovered I loved Fuji and Gala apples.

At the end of the unit we'd bake an apple pie together. When I went through this unit with Trinity I had never baked an apple pie (or any fruit pie) before. So I had to find us a recipe which I did on-line. Gotta love the world wide web. The recipe below is what we made. I bought ready made pie crusts, one rolled and one already in a pan. We used Granny Smith apples. I'm sharing it in case reading about apples gives you a hankering to bake a pie.

Apple Pie

INGREDIENTS: 6 cups thinly sliced apples 3/4 cup white sugar 1 tablespoon butter 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch single crust pie

DIRECTIONS: Prepare your pastry for a two crust pie. Wipe, quarter, core, peel, and slice apples; measure to 6 cups. Combine sugar and cinnamon. The amount of sugar used depends on how tart your apples are. Arrange apples in layers in pastry lined pie plate. Sprinkle each layer with sugar and cinnamon. Dot top layer with small pieces of butter or margarine. Cover with top crust. Place on lowest rack in oven preheated to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake for 30 to 35 minutes longer. Serve warm or cold.

Father, thank You for apples! Thank You for the variety and even the beauty they give us. Thank You for knowing what we would love!

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - Block #15 - "Comfort"

Block #15 - "Comfort"

Started on 6/26/11

Completed on 6/27/11

Technique: Piecing

Wow. The writer of this letter talks of the loss of a stillborn baby. When you think about it, that puts any trials and tribulations in your own life into proper perspective does it not? The family took comfort in God's will being carried out and from the loving care of their church family. I don't know how anyone gets through bad times without the love and support of our Heavenly Father and a church family.

My 10 year old, precious daughter Trinity, slipped and fell getting out of the shower on Saturday afternoon. After hollering for us, her dad and I walked in to find blood everywhere and a weepy child saying she thought one of her teeth had been knocked out. She urgently wanted me to look and see.

I took a deep breath and offered a whispered prayer in record time that God would give me peace and the words to comfort her no matter what I found (and to help me not freak out) . From what I was seeing I thought she might be right. Thankfully, once I could check her out it didn't look like any teeth were missing.

We took her on in to urgent care and after a thorough exam and x-rays it was confirmed that nothing was broken. No teeth were loose and she didn't have a concussion. We felt the Lord's hedge of protection as this could have been so much worse. It certainly looked like a worst case scenario!

We were at my mom's house in Bastrop, TX, and although we had planned to head home on Saturday, an emotional Trinity (and emotional Mommy if I'm being honest) really wanted a good night's sleep in a non-moving resting place. So we stayed an extra night.

Fast forward three days ... we are home (from Texas to Colorado) and the swelling has gone down some although it is still very noticeable. Bruising is emerging a little at a time but her smile is beginning to be familiar again. She has looked like a completely different child. Her cousins came home with us and playing with Hannah has helped immeasurably. Cousin Jackson is keeping little brother Will busy and out from under foot. Heavenly Father blesses us in so many ways.

So today, I thank you, Father, for the lives of my children. For their smiles and for the constant instruction and rebuke they bring down on me, ha, I thank You. For what would the sunshine of life mean to us without the occasional moments of shadow? I know we can't even begin to imagine what you protect us from. Thank You! Simply, thank You.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Watermelon Wagon"

Block # 14 - "Watermelon Wagon"

Started on 6/26/11

Completed on 6/27/11

Technique: Applique'

I have never grown a watermelon, picked/harvested a watermelon or sold a watermelon as this writer talks of doing. To be honest, I'm actually not a fan of watermelon. Sliced and salted or not, with sugar or without, it has never really mattered. It just doesn't float my boat.

Watermelon flavored Jolly Ranchers used to rock my world though!

I don't have a prayer about watermelons to share today; shocker I know! So let me offer up a prayer for something that is on my heart. Tomorrow's block will tie in to my Trinity's accident so we'll save that for then.

Father, offer comfort to my friend Kristen's family as they adjust to life without her. Show them Your love can fill in any gaps and can heal the most broken of hearts. Help those of us left behind to manifest Your love in even the smallest of ways for them.

Blessings!

Don't give up on me

When I last posted I thought I'd be out of town for a 3 night camping trip. Since then, a good friend of ours passed away unexpectedly, we've made a cross half country trip, and been on the road.

Today, my beautiful daughter Trinity, who is 10 yo, slipped and fell getting out of the shower. She has a terribly bruised, swollen, lacerated face and mouth now. Please pray for her comfort and healing as she is in a bad way physically and emotionally. Also that we can make our way from TX back to Colorado with as little discomfort to her as possible!

My project will continue once we get home and my baby is okay.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Diamond in the Square"

Block # 13 - "Diamond in the Square

Started on 6/25/11

Completed on 6/25/11

Technique: Piecing

I love, love, love this block! I love the colors and the composition. Crazy lovin' it!

The writer of the letter that goes with this block talks of having a Diamond in the Square quilt in her quilting frame. That's how Granny quilted. She had a huge frame that would be in the den and sometimes tucked into the more formal living room. How cool is it that she would let me help make stitches?

I wish that I was in a community where I could gather around a quilt frame with other women of faith and have a time of fellowship. A work frolic! Doesn't that make any task sound doable or more bearable? I wasn't even taught to quilt with a frame. Even if I was to quilt by hand I'm supposed to use a large hoop like lap stand I bought.

I'm telling you, the Amish people know what life is all about and they've got it going on!

Blessings!

P.S. Posts may be absent for a few days but don't give up on me.

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Baking Pies"

Block #12 - "Baking Pies"

Started on 6/24/11

Completed on 6/24/11

Technique: Applique'

I had never made a fruit pie before Trinity was in Kindergarten. We were in the first couple of weeks of our homeschool adventure and she had her "a-a-apple" unit. We bought several different kinds of apples and tried them and then we built our apple pie.

I still make that recipe (that I'd had to look up on-line) every once in awhile. We love it. I use store bought pie crusts. Yeh, I said it. Ha! Saves time and waste by me not attempting my own dough. Even by only cutting up the apples and sprinkling in the sugar and cinnamon it gives me a great feeling of domestic accomplishment.

Do you bake pies? Fruit ones? I'd like to know who among you can bake a good pie and what kind you make.

Father, thank You for the creativity You had to make so many kinds of fruits and for letting someone figure out a way to put those fruits in pies. You are way too good to us.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Pineapple"

Block #11 - "Pineapple Quilt"

Started on 6/24/11

Completed on 6/24/11

Technique: Paper Piecing

This was my first attempt at paper piecing and I am thrilled with the results. It was fun and I ended up with a nice, tight, design. I used greens because that said pineapple to me more than the red that's pictured.

In this letter the writer talks about her relatives finishing a pineapple quilt at their reunion. I haven't been to a family reunion in more years than I can count. There was a great one back in 1998 or so that my Aunt Ilee hosted at her place. It was so wonderful to see my mom's cousins and their kids, most of whom I grew up with.

I also made it to Heiberger, AL, in 2000 (I think), for a reunion on my Daddy's side of the family. I met some relatives there for the first time and saw several I hadn't seen since a trip there in 1983 or 84.

It is important for kids to know where they come from; to look into faces and see eyes and noses that match theirs. It is important for them to witness family traditions and see similarities between themselves and others that share more than DNA. Love covers a multitude of shortcomings, but if these opportunities are available, they should be taken advantage of. I wish I lived close enough to do just that!

Father, thank you for our families and the way they shape us into who we are.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Sadness"

Block #10 - "Sadness"

Started on 6/24/11

Completed on 6/24/11

Technique: Applique'

An Amish man's hat was used to portray this block. I'm not crazy about the stitching I did on this plus I regret not making it in black. So, I've decided I'm going to remake it at some point.

The writer of this portion of the circle letter says, "I have often wondered how people who don't understand God's ways could cope with this." I wonder that myself.

A minister quoted a portion of 1 Thessalonians 4:13 at my Granny's funeral, almost 21 years ago now, "We sorrow not as they who have no hope." All those years ago and that sticks with me still. How would you survive the loss of one so dearly loved if you had no hope; no faith in God or in the existence of Heaven?

Father, thank you for those in my life who have grown my faith my whole life long. Thank you for the promises and the hope you've given us!

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Star Baby Quilts"

Block #9 - "Star Baby Quilts"

Started on 6/24/11

Completed on 6/24/11

Technique: Piecing (Flying Geese)

I've made one Sawtooth Star Quilt so far. And I've made one baby quilt so far. (Two more in progress.) But not a sawtooth star quilt for a baby. If I did this one again, I would have made the center square the same color as the points as the sample suggests. But I like this block okay.

I have 34 of the 121 squares done at this point. I'm torn right now because I have a baby quilt I really need to finish. Okay, two I need to finish but one is most urgent. Plus, I have a quilt to finish binding for my bed, a mystery quilt I need to catch up on, and two blocks of the month I've gotten behind on as well. But I'm loving my Amish Circle Quilt project so much that I hate to stop working on it. If I'm being honest I guess I really hate to put away all of the scraps I'm usuing in it to clear my work space.

I need to get these baby quilts done though for reals. I loved the quilts we were given when our children were born. They are very special and I love them still even though my babies are babies no more. Maybe I'll flip a coin.

Father, thank You for blessing me with a craft I love and for making my dreams of creating quilts a reality. You are too, too good to me.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Barn Raising"

Block #8 - "Barn Raising"

Started on 6/24/11

Completed on 6/24/11

Technique: Applique'

I guess when it comes to the Amish community, barn raisings are something that intrigue us Englischers a great deal. It baffles me, truly, as to why a whole church community anywhere can't come together and make that same kind of thing happen for their own members. I guess Habitat for Humanity is a version of this but it isn't near the same as what the Amish accomplish for each other.

How much closer would we be to our brothers and sisters in Christ if once a month or even once a year, the entire congregation got together with the men and boys building a barn or a room or a dawdi house (think mother-in-law suite) and the women serving up an army sized lunch for everyone? If that kind of love and commitment was shown to each other, could anything but growing closer in Christ commence?

Father, help us love each other and see the image of you in others. Help us give of ourselves and our hearts to those who need it. Help us receive the love of others as well.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Health Problems"

Block #7 - "Health Problems"

Started on 6/23/11
Completed on 6/24/11
Technique: Piecing, Half Square Triangles

Trauma, Illness and Depression ... all three of these, no matter how significant nor how brief, they require me to wrap up in something cozy and warm. Even if it is one hundred degrees outside. I used to use a throw size down comforter. Now, I use a log cabin quilt I made for myself and I could almost swear it is even more comforting.

Last summer was a terribly traumatic time for me. I had to break off a relationship with a close friend. The relationship was destructive to my heart and soul. I spent days, in the heat of August, wrapped in my quilt. I was so sad it was hard to utter prayers so my quilt held me together in a way.

Years ago I ended up with an old quilt from my Granny's house. It moved with me from high school to college, to early married life and sits in the home we live in now. Funny how some things never change.

So, do you have a "security blanket"? I'd love to hear about it. I guess I could be out there on my own with this, but I can't be the only one. Surely not. I hope. : )

Heavenly Father, You are the ultimate security blanket and comforter. Thank you for giving us physical items to "hug" us here on earth. I pray we feel your arms around us when we need comfort and warmth.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Laundry"

Block #6 - "Laundry"

Started on 6/23/11
Completed on 6/23/11

Technique: Applique'

One of my favorite blocks! I thought this one was so cute and it made me very happy to create something I like so much.

Now, about laundry. It is one of those tasks that is never complete. Does that bother anyone else or is it just me? My personal preference is to wash all the dirty laundry and fold and hang it up all in one day. I rarely have an entire day to devote to laundry but when I do I feel like I really accomplish something.

I am quite thankful for my washer and dryer. I don't think I would enjoy hanging laundry out to dry on a line. I certainly wouldn't like the feel of line dried clothes. I remember Granny used to hang clothes up outside even after she had an automatic dryer. You won't find me doing that. As tired as I am after a day of laundry I can't imagine how much more work it would be if I had to plunge and scrub and wring out and hang up.

Father, help me complete my tasks for my family that are a labor of love with a cheerful heart. Thank You for giving me loved ones to take care of.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Raspberry Bushes"

Block #5 - "Raspberry Bushes"

Started on 6/22/11
Completed on 6/25/11

Technique: Templates

This block slowed me down a little bit. I wasn't sure how to do it. I knew I couldn't simply piece it together normally. I knew I couldn't paper piece it. Finally, I emailed the book's author and she advised me on how to tackle it. I used templates! I had never played with this method before so it was fun to try something new.

I'm not a fan of raspberries. I'm not a fan of walking through weeds and plants and the bugs that come along with that. So it is highly unlikely you'd ever find me picking raspberries.

I do remember picking some kind of berries behind Granny and Poppa's house, back behind their garden, when I was younger. I remember having to check for (and often finding) chiggers and ticks after we were done. I'm thinking it was blackberries but I really am not sure. Anyway, bugs that hitch hike on my person are enough to keep me away from such activities as an adult.

Oh the good old days of childhood ... before I developed my slightly OCD qualities and prejudices!

Father, I'm not sure why you made such ookie pests. It is one of those things I suppose I just have to trust you on. But know, Lord, that I don't get it.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Canning"

Block #4 - "Canning"
Started on 6/23/11
Completed on 6/23/11

I've been AWOL for a few days because we took a family trip to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Great weather, God's beauty abounded .. 'twas a great time. I did miss my quilting some though!

So block 4 was quite easy and very fun to make. I sure am enjoying small sections of applique' at a time. Bigger blocks that are highly detailed feel insurmountable sometimes.

I was able to match the coloring on this one pretty well. I like the way it looks although I'm not sure there is a light pink jar of anything.

I have never tried to can anything or make jelly. I know my Granny used to make jelly. I loved her homemade grape jelly. It seems like Grandma always had homemade jellies too but I didn't get to see her make them; at least not that I remember.

Anyone out there big into canning? I don't actually have the desire to try it myself but I would love to hear of others' attempts.

Father, I am thankful today for Del Monte and the Jolly Green Giant. For reals, I'm thankful.

Blessings!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Collecting Eggs"

Block #3 - "Collecting Eggs"

Started on 6-21-11
Completed on 6-23-11

This writer and pattern contributor told her sons collecting eggs from their chickens and only breaking one out of 3 baskets full. I must confess that I sometimes wish we had a couple of chickens to collect fresh eggs from each day. I love eggs. Cooked just about any possible way to boot!

I think it would be good for the kids to have chores like egg collecting or coop clean-up. I don't know that I would want the daily responsibility for forever but I must admit it sounds like a wonderful life.

What do you know about chickens? Are they pretty easy to care for? Do they let you take their eggs? What farm animal would you most like to have? I think I'd have to say a goat or two. Or an Alpaca if it was a contemporary type farm!

Father, may our lives have the peacefulness and earthiness of a farm and may we appreciate your creativeness in the world you've made for us.

Yee haw ... three days in a row!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "Fruit Trees"

Block #2: "Fruit Trees"

Started on 6-20-11
Completedon 6-21-11

I had a lot of fun with this block. I enjoy doing applique' but I get bogged down with big projects taking a long time. This was nice because it was fun and DONE!

I read a book recently of people who owned an orchard. I loved the descriptions of them walking through and under the shade of the massive rows of fruit trees. I don't know if I've ever visited an orchard. Hmmm ... Sounds like a fun fall field trip for me and the kiddos.

Some of my fabric colors are probably going to be too bright to reflect ones the Amish might use. But it will reflect me and my color choices so I guess an homage to the Amish in my own way is acceptable.

Blogged two days in a row. Will wonders never cease?

Father, help me see the small miracles of your design for this world in the simplicity of a fruit tree!

Amish Circle Quilt Project - "The Picnic"

Block # 1 - The Picnic

Started on 6-20-11
Completed on 6-20-11

I used reds rather than blues for two reasons. One, red said picnic to me more than blue did. Two, I didn't have blue fabrics I liked for this block!

When was the last time you got together with other families for a picnic down by the pond (or anywhere else for that matter)? That's what this block represented. A little family picnic that turned into 64 people and an all day affair.

We had a church picnic last month and it was so nice to get together with such a diverse group of people who shared a common faith and love for God. How nice to visit with people you simply don't get to know during a worship service.

I think perhaps such gatherings should happen more often. Getting together to picnic, play games, toss a ball around, or as my family often did sing together.

Father, help us all take time to spend time with people we love and whose relationships we value.

May you all picnic in your own way this week!

A Stitch in Time?

Anyone who knows me knows that I have an interest, shall we say, in the Amish culture and way of life. I read fiction and non-fiction books about them. I follow blogs and websites that are devoted to honoring and learning more about their way of life.

I'm also a quilter. Maybe still a baby quilter, since I've only been quilting for a year and a half, but a quilter none-the-less. I love it muchly.

So, it stands to reason that when I happened upon a book entitled "The Amish Circle Quilt" by Rosemary Youngs, I found my own little soul mate of a project to work on!

The book focuses on a group of women who keep a circle letter circulating throughout their small group. At one point they decide to begin enclosing a pattern for a quilt block with each letter based on what is happening in their life at the time of their writing.

There are 121 blocks. No, that's not a typo. 121.

So, back on June 20, I got started. Some blocks I work straight through to complete. Others I have to think about and prepare for. Still others require applique' stitching which I try to save up two or three of before completing.

I plan to blog about each block and include a picture of it as I complete it. I know myself well enough to know that I won't blog every day. Most especially because this time of year we are travelling and camping a lot and I rarely have internet service then.

I might even include my take on the block in a "what it means to me" kind of way. Hope this will be of interest to someone. If not, I will have beautiful, talented grandbabies someday that will find it fascinating. tee hee

Blessings to all!

Sometimes He Screams

I'm old enough to know that sometimes God whispers things to us. In quiet moments of the day He'll inject His take on things; implant a thought with that "little voice" in my head. (Admit it, you have one too.)

But ya know what, even He will sometimes scream! Maybe not in the I saw a snake way. But He can literally beat us over the head with His intention for us.

We left a church almost two years ago. We were unimpressed with the level of importance we viewed them having on children. If I'm being honest I felt a tug on my heart, a whisper perhaps, that my abilities would allow me to jump in and help in the effort to change that level of importance there. I said, "Say what?" and I've been arguing ever since as we searched for a more ideal church home.

A minister at that old church had really upset me. He thought it was more my responsibility for my children's spiritual education that middle aged or older folks in the church. That was absurd to me. We are all called to teach and mentor and raise up our children. I mean, it takes a village, right?

So, after two years away, we went back to that old church this past weekend. As much anxiety as we had, to an extent it felt like going home. And even though that went well, I still found myself feeling the Lord's urging to be the change I want to see. Well, arguing with God rarely goes well. Okay, it never does. So today, He screamed.

First thing this morning I opened one of my e-devotionals. It read:

Proverbs 12:24 - Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.

"Argh!" He can't want me to get involved. I'm a control freak. People in charge catch the brunt. Lead something and you're a target for criticism and complaints. He can't mean this.

So I opened a second e-devotional. Maybe this one will say to do whatever I'm comfortable with or that the first one didn't mean me. It read:

"... Talk to God about everything, even your doubts and arguments."

Are you kidding me? Really? Really? No, I'm reading number 3. Something is going on here and it isn't funny. At all. Argh again. I mean, I can't go back and try to work with that person I so disagree with. Number 3 read:

"Father, it isn't them. Help me remember the fault lies with me."

SCREAMING! Unless I'm being Punk'd, He screamed. I'm flabbergasted. I'm humbled. I'm listening.

Things That Bug Me Part 1

1. People who wrap the bottom 4th of a tree in their yard with Christmas lights because they aren't committed enough to drag out a ladder and cover the whole thing. People, sometimes less is more. Or rather none is more.

2. The name Daphne. It's weird.

3. People who send Christmas cards to "The Brassette's". If you have to ask why you are part of the problem. More than one Brassette is shown by adding only an "s". No apostrophe needed.

4. Being sick on my birthday or major holiday, such as Thanksgiving. It just isn't right.

"People who matter don't mind. And, people who mind don't matter." - Author Unknown

From Will

So the kids and I were discussing the concept of divorce today while I fixed lunch. A family we know is going through it and my kids were asking about the kids in the other family. Specifically, I was explaining how sad kids would be to not live with both of their parents at the same time.

Will looked perplexed. To explain I gave him the example of how if Daddy and I divorced we wouldn't live together in the same house any more.

I barely finished the sentence before he piped up and said, "I'd want to live with Dad!"

To my credit, Trinity's mouth dropped open, she rolled her eyes and shook her head. However, the damage was done and my ego was still bruised. I guess it is what it is. Thanks Will!

There, Kara, I posted.

Meems

..... Oh Mia ... affectionately called Meems by most of us ... Mia, our sweet guinea pig, properly called a Cavy. Mia passed away Wednesday morning between 3 am and 7 am.

..... We'd only had her about nine months. Officially, I suppose, she was Trinity's pet. However, I was the driving force behind getting her and I loved her and shared in her care.

..... We knew something was wrong Tuesday afternoon. She didn't look right and was sluggish and when we realized she wasn't really eating, that sealed it. We got her in at the vet at the last minute that afternoon. I had a hard time falling asleep; kept going in to check on her.

..... Before Mark left for work I asked him to go check on her. When he came back and said she didn't make it, I bawled. He stayed home from work. I broke the news to Trinity. She cried and cried and I cried right along with her.

..... Will was concerned that perhaps we were wrong. Part of his processing it was to actually look and touch her. He wanted to make her move.

..... We let Trinity take the lead on how she wanted to deal with things. A shoebox with a pink lid was appropriate she thought. Her daddy dug a nice hole in the back yard. The kids helped fill it back in.

..... All day we were subject to tearing up. We decided we would wait a couple of weeks before entertaining the possibility of a new small pet. I mean, Mia was so cool! For real ... a cool rodent. She had personality. She oinked ... when she heard one of us in the kitchen. She came to the door of her cage when we opened it and stood up if she wanted to be held. She also, and most adorably so, would hold her chin up high in the air and let you scratch and rub under her chin. (See picture at left.) Her nostrils were two different colors; one dark, one pink. And the whiskers on each side were corresponding colors; light and dark. She was no ordinary rodent.

..... Thursday the kids and I were so sad. Her cage was still there with her tiny carrot and spinach left. It stood empty and frankly, it was hard to bare. So, we went to look at rats. Yes, rats. My thinking was that if Trinity wanted one that might just work. I would in no way get attached, so I wouldn't have to worry about letting go of another pet. Well, as it turns out, doggone rats have a much shorter life expectancy that guinea pigs. Argh!

..... Petsmart let Trinity hold a rat. She just didn't seem comfortable. Then we got the lifespan data. That idea was a dud. We decided to go to the pet store we'd gotten Mia at. We thought surely they would have a baby we could hold and love on ... ya know, tangible therapy of sorts.

..... They had babies. One 8 week old little angel with crazy hair. Another 5 week old little angel who was white with pink eyes. Oh, we loved on them and loved on them and it was so good for us. So, we left.

..... Then, we pulled over and called Daddy. Most of this information was exchanged. Yes, we found one. Is is too soon, is it okay? By the way, we didn't just find one. We found two. We can't choose between them. And, oh yeah, one is a girl and one is a boy.

..... By the time the call was over we could go back and get one. And Daddy was apparently in shock. (Two? They want two? And a pair no less?) So anyway, a crazy haired little fellow came home with us that afternoon. He is an Abyssinian piggie. His name is Jasper. He is so soft and pretty mellow. He is primarily Trinity's pet.

..... After much conversation and having a night to sleep on it, Mark decided if we really wanted a second one, well, we could indeed have her!!! I was floored. So, we went on Friday and picked up Joy. She was destined to be Alice (Alice and Jasper from Twilight) but it just didn't fit her. Joy worked. She is a Teddy Bear piggie with funny hair. She is very gentle but still pretty scared of us. She's so tiny and just as precious as can be. An added twist with Joy is that she is primarily William's pet. Hmmm .... After we got her home and started looking at her, we realized she had one dark ear and one pink ear. And even more cool, one dark nostril and one pink nostril ... just like our Mia. At left is a picture of Bella checking out Joy. She licks them ... and wags her tail. I think she is hoping we'll put one down so she can chase them.

..... And what do you do with two guinea pigs?? Well, let's just say that come July or August, our family may grow just little. That's right. We are actually planning on having wittle cavies (piglets) at our house!

..... Here's the pair of new members of our family. They are so cool and we're enjoying them already. They really have eased the pain of losing Mia. She was special. They won't replace her. But they sure have made their own places in our hearts!

25 Random Things About Me

So this is a repeat of a Note I posted on my facebook page. If you read that one, don't waste your time, as this is exactly the same!

1. I detest potluck meals. All those weird things that people probably licked their fingers making with kids helping themselves and sneezing in dishes. Uck. I'll pass, thanks.

2. Don't touch my pillow. Don't put my pillow on the floor, by penalty of death. Don't lay on my pillow, by penalty of painful death. Thank you.

3. I do not like for my food to touch other food on my plate. I avoid juicy things so the juice doesn't touch the non-juicy things.

4. I love Christian romance fiction with an Amish element. Reading novels such as these has encouraged my next random thing.

5. I am in the process of learning to quilt. At 35 I thought I would be the youngest student but I'm actually not. I love it. It is an expensive hobby. I'm enjoying although the kids haven't eaten in a month and have no college in their future.

6. I am a Girl Scout troop leader. I love it so much that sometimes I think I would want to keep being a leader even if my daughter no longer wanted to be in scouts.

7. I have more friends in Grand Junction, CO, in two years than I had in Deer Park, TX, in six. I don't know why, I'm just sayin'.

8. I miss Rosie O'Donnell's magazine and TV Show. (I don't miss her on The View so much.) Her magazine was my most favorite and her TV show rocked.

9. I hate vegetables. I'd rather chew on grass. I can't help it. They gag me.

10. I would absoultely love an Amish pen pal.

11. I manage to get my house cleaner for guests that are here for a few hours than I do for my family that are here 24/7. I don't pretend to understand that.

12. Simon actually likes me on Wii American Idol.

13. I spent an hour playing Skee Ball at Chuck E. Cheese (during a weekday) for my last birthday.

14. My 11 year old Peek-a-Poo is going to live forever. She just is.

15. I want to go to Hawaii some day. Badly.

16. I really hate the idea of walking in or out of the church auditorium while worship is ongoing. I would rather not go at all if we are going to be late or wet my pants than to get up. It would be especially dreadful if I had to wrestle a 4 year old in the aisle while he's screaming, "I don't want a spanking,". How embarrassing would that be??????????

17. I hate the noise our humidifiers make. It is not comforting or soothing. It grates on my nerves.

18. The only way I like to be awake at 6 am is if I have stayed up that late from the night before.

19. I love putting together computerized jigsaw puzzles.

20. I love paint by number puzzles (a.k.a. nonograms, paint doku)

21. I want to go camping ... in our pop up camper ... with my laptop ... and dvd's. Rustic, I know.

22. I enjoy fishing although I prefer my bait not be moving. I wish we fished more often.

23. I'm still surprised people look different from the last time I saw them on facebook. It truly surprises me when they don't look like they did 15 or 20 years ago when I last saw them in middle or high school.

24. It amazes me how often I still think of my Granny and wish she could have met my husband and children. I would love to see the approval that was never absent from her eyes. 18 years have gone by since she passed on to glory ... still wish I could talk to her once more.

25. I will most likely be in line with all of the teeny boppers in Grand Junction on March 21 to get the Twilight dvd.