Piece in the Hoop™

Breakfast!

2011-02-25T08:36:00.001-06:00

One thing I still love about my childhood is Cinnamon Butter Toast! You have to use real butter, that's the key. I load it up with my over the top daily allowance of real butter then sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on top. Put under the broiler and she'll be bubbly in no time. I don't treat myself often but when I do, my tummy slaps my face saying "Where have you been?". Well, I'm off to enjoy then gonna go be creative!

New Swirling Cabin Coming Soon!

2011-02-09T19:09:00.003-06:00

I wanted to share a sneak peak of what's coming.... a LOG CABIN with a "TWIST" all Pieced in the Hoop!! Below is 4 color and 2 color examples I stitched up.

This block is known also by several names, but I created this one today called Swirling Cabin. It has numerous possibilities. Here are just a few.

This block colorway can make this.

Now change the color order and you have this tilted cabin.

This block can make this.

I sure love making blocks with my embroidery machine. It took me 6 minutes to make a perfect 5" block without having to precut ONE THING!

DESIGN IS FINISHED AND READY

January's AURIfil Designer of the Month

2011-02-08T18:16:00.002-06:00

I didn't get to post January's designer so I'm doing it now because Susan Brubaker Knapp is a very talented quilter. She has a really beautiful project to share with you... here is a sneak peek...

Click over to Aurifil blog and read the interview with Susan. Download the free project she designed to chase away the winter... her January project is darling and a quick one to bring some color into your home!

Visit Susan all around the internet.. and sign up for her newsletter http://www.bluemoonriver.com

FB - http://www.facebook.com/BlueMoonRiver

Blog - http://wwwbluemoonriver.blogspot.com/

Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/BlueMoonRiver

February's AURIfil Designer of the Month

2011-02-08T18:01:00.003-06:00

Since I'm apart of the Designer of the Month series that AURIfil is hosting (Miss November LOL), I wanted to share this month's designer: Linda Lum DeBono. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet her at International Quilt Market in Houston, TX at the AURIfil booth and let me tell you she has an awesome personality. Linda is a very talented designer in so many fields. She has created this lovely LOVE Valentine Project. CLICK HERE to download her FREE pattern.

Starting in March, EACH MONTH AURIfil will pick one random winner that has made one of the Designer projects to receive a special AURIfil thread prize.. wowzer!!.

You can make ANY of the designer projects (and we hope you make them all!)

Share your photos at our Flickr Folder... we can't WAIT to see what you do!

http://www.flickr.com/groups/2011aurifildesignerofthemonth/

Visit Linda all around the internet..

Website http://www.lindalumdebono.com/

FaceBook -http://www.facebook.com/lindalumdebono

Blog - http://www.lindalumdebono.blogspot.com/

Just in time for Valentines!

2011-01-31T16:45:00.001-06:00

I sure do love me some Andy & Ann! This is a single block that's Pieced in the Hoop™ and finished with a "trim in place" applique heart & redwork. WOW... all 3 techniques combined!

I left off the corners and created a more primitive style block.

Artwork drawn by a dear friend of mine, Angela Prince-Bex

PURCHASE DESIGNS HERE

Cross of the Dogwood

2011-01-31T08:47:00.004-06:00

One of my fondest memories of growing up in Tyler County, Texas is the time Daddy took us 3 girls and planted a dogwood tree. He told us the story of it and to this day it's etched in my memory. It was his favorite flower and is now mine too next to white daises.

Click to enlarge

I created this set of designs as a reminder of who I am and where I came from. I love living in Woodville, Texas! Each year around the end of March, first of April, our town, being the county seat, hosts the Annual Dogwood Parade. The courthouse square become packed with lookie-lous oohing and awing over the niftiest craft find, antique cars and funnel cakes. It's not long before a stream of lawn chairs line the city streets waiting on the opening ceremonies to begin. It's then that Princesses and Ladies in Waiting representing each school wave and smile from decorated themed floats and kids hold their ears because the Shriner's are on their miniature motorcycles making cyclone of noise. Most small business owners are represented with a float or decorated truck and attached lowboy as those riding throw hoards of candy to the crowd. School bands play and march with their twirlers leading the way. Ahh, I'm so glad to be back home! It won't be long before dogwood time in Tyler County is here. I'll be sure to post pictures.

PURCHASE DESIGNS HERE

Piece in the Hoop Buttons

2011-01-24T15:37:00.003-06:00

I wanted to share a fun surprise I received in the mail a while back from a wonderful student named Mimi. We met at the IEC convention last year in Evansville, IN. Mimi took a design of mine and made me some darling buttons! Don't you just love them!!!

She and Charles, her beloved husband, were both true treasures. His love for this woman exuded in every action that poured from his heart. I love seeing a man that encourages a woman to follow and do what she loves. He was right here helping set up her machine and pampering her in every since of the word. He gives me hope (smile).

Thanks Mimi and I hope I keep on inspiring you because you two have inspired me.

2010-12-19T08:28:00.002-06:00

It's finally starting to get really cold here in Texas. I know 30 degrees may be a walk in the park for some of you but to us Texan's that's just down right chilly! I had to make sure I left the faucets drip last night to keep pipes form busting. I think the heater ran overtime!

Talon, my 3 year old alarm clock, woke me up to hunger pangs asking for Rice Krispies so that's just what he got. Since I was up I decided to put a pot of Taco Soup on the stove to warm the bones after we head outside to play some T-Ball.

I took Talon to see Santa yesterday and this is as close as he really wanted to get. He's the lil boy in back in overalls. Linsey decided she was just to big to sit in Santa's lap anymore, although I think she really wanted to.

Yesterday evening, I took the kids around town and took pics. Talon wasn't cooperating too much but I still got a few good shots.

We had a few visitors while taking pics and Talon had to go explore a little then decided to chase them back to the water.

The following two pics were taken by the court house square in front of the Historic Wheat House.

Well, here's to a couple weeks off with my kiddos. I pray that each of you have a safe and wonderful holiday season! I'm truly thankful and blessed in so many ways.

Merry Christmas to all and to all and full bobbin!

Technology Brings Me Closer To You!

2010-10-08T11:14:00.001-05:00

Its simply amazing how these new Droid phones bring us all together. I love this new application that helps make it easier for me time communicate to my blog.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.2

Long Time No Typey!

2010-10-06T14:19:00.000-05:00

Oh Wow!! It's hard to believe that I haven't written here in over 8 months. Please forgive me, but man let me tell you what all has been going on...
I've been doing lots of traveling since my book came out. I've had a ball lecturing at trunk shows, giving classes, going to book signings. I've traveled to Quilt Market in Minneapolis, MN, then to Madison WI for Quilt Expo. I just got home from Evansville, Indiana where I was asked to teach at IEC (International Embroidery Convention). I've met folks from all over the world and to me, that's the hi-light of my "job"!

I'm happy to report that over 10,000 copies of the book has been sold and I've been asked to write another so look out.... #2 will be in the works next year with hopefully a 2012 release date. I'll keep you posted on that.

Now to top off all the travels, I recently moved back to my hometown of Woodville, Texas. I didn't realize how much I missed it and all its beauty until returning. The kids love it and have taken to it like a duck to water.

Right now, I'm gearing down to getting things lined out for Quilt Market & Festival in Houston. My booth numbers are #2019 Market & #859 Festival. I hope you stop by for a chat.

To see all the places I'm going be sure to save MY CALENDAR for your records.

I have a new set of designs coming soon called ROWS OF COUNTRY.... yes it's a row by row quilt with lots of western designs. I'll be posting pics as soon as the top is complete. It's full of applique and Piecing in the Hoop.

Well enough pulling on your ear, I've gotta get back to work. I do my best to stay in touch cyber neighbor :)

MY BOOK IS OUT!!!

2010-01-10T10:28:00.000-06:00

The day before Christmas I held my book for the first time in my hands. I was sooo overjoyed, I cried. This book was truly a labor of love for me. I wrote a little behind the scenes story that you can read on my website on my journey to get here. If there's anything I can tell you it would be this. Never give up on a dream. If you feel a burning inside you every time you think of your passion, this is God saying...DO IT! Listen to that inner voice. You will come across things you don't think you can get through, but then you do. Rely on faith to pull you through. I hope you enjoy all the photos in the book too. Here are some customer comments. You can find my book at any more retail chain or purchase on from me. I'll be happy to sign it for you.

We're on YouTube!!

2009-12-09T09:57:00.002-06:00

I was very excited to receive an email this morning from Krause Publications to a YouTube link!

Dear Santa... I want....

2009-12-04T11:06:00.003-06:00

What a week it has been! I haven't' been able to work all week cause my lil man has been sick and can't go to daycare. He's a handful let me tell you! I think my arms have stretched 3 inches cause all he's wanted was to be in momma's lap and arms at all times.

Today, I thought we'd get creative on this OH SO COLD December morning as we wait on the snow to arrive. I prepared a page for him to write Santa a letter telling him all he wanted. Don't you just love all he's asked for (tee hee).

Don't you just love how he doesn't match. That was a fight I wasn't going to win. He insisted on sponge bob pants and his truck shirt!

Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary

2009-12-04T10:32:00.005-06:00

For those of you who know me, know I LOVE the Wizard of Oz! I was thrilled when I read that it will be showing in local theaters. My lil girl won a prize at school and came home and said "Momma, I got you something." How sweet is that....she gave me her prize and wouldn't take no for an answer. I love my kiddos.

Daniel brought this home to me the other day. What a sweet thought huh?

Best Ever Chocolate Cake

2009-11-03T07:31:00.007-06:00

Aunt Kathy Jo introduced this recipe to me last year and I almost made myself sick eating it. I'm not a big chocolate cake fan but there's something about this one that will bring me to making one for Thanksgiving.

Best Ever
Chocolate
Sheet Cake
(from Kathy Jo)

CAKE RECIPE

½ C. Crisco
1 stick real butter

3 ½ Tbs cocoa

1 C. water

½ tsp salt

2 C. sugar

2 C. flour

1 tsp. vanilla

2 eggs

½ C. buttermilk

1 tsp. soda

ICING RECIPE

1 stick real butter

3 ½ Tbs. cocoa

1/3 C. milk

1 box powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

1 C. pecans

Sauce Pan – Crisco, butter, cocoa, water, salt; bring to a boil. Mix sugar and flour in bowl; pour the mixture in saucepan. Add 1 tsp. vanilla, 2 eggs, ½ C buttermilk, and 1 tsp. cocoa.

Pour into a 9x13 greased & floured pan. Bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees. Do not overcook!

Five minutes before cake is done, mix in saucepan 1 stick butter, 3 ½ Tbs. cocoa & 1/3 C. milk. Boil. Add 1 box of powdered sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla & pecans. Pour over warm cake.

CoRnY Friends Candy Holder

2009-10-29T08:49:00.006-05:00

Here's the project from my morning inspiration from eating CANDY CORNS last night!!

I put candy in a snack size Ziploc then inserted into the front pocket.

Design available on my website for purchase

Today's Inspiration

2009-10-29T07:25:00.008-05:00

This is one of my favorite treats for the FALL! I found these Creme Brulee Gourmet Candy Corns at Wal-Mart the other day. I think the originals are still my favorite though.

I have a useful, silly project coming up so stay tuned...................

Falling Leaves Hangie

2009-10-28T09:16:00.004-05:00

I really had fun making this hangie. The blocks are all Pieced in the Hoop TM and appliqued via my embroidery machine. I added ribbon then chose a sham style backing. I did add a piece of fusible Timtex to the top. It gave just the amount of stiffness needed to help this hang properly.

Available for sale on my website.

Pumpkin Snot

2009-10-28T01:23:00.009-05:00

Pumpkin

Snot

Kids love SLIME, so why not make some!

1. Blend 2 cups of Elmer’s Glue with 1 ½ cups warm water in a bowl.
2. Add red and yellow food coloring until orange
3. In another bowl, dissolve 4 tsp. of borax in 1 1/3 cups warm water. When dissolved add it to the glue/water bowl.
4. Squish with hands until desired consistency.
5. Store in plastic bags.
6. Keep off furniture, carpet & clothes!
7. Attach poem if giving as a gift.

Pumpkin Snot

This poor pumpkin

Gave into rot,

And all that’s left

Is this pumpkin snot!

Happy Halloween from
Piece in the Hoop™

Feeling Lucky...I got a Clover

2009-10-27T16:09:00.003-05:00

When I was at Market, Clover picked me up as a sponsor and today I got my NEW Clover in the mail. When Sandy Kent and I went to Wisconsin to do the taping with Nancy Zieman, she had one of these and we just fell in love with it. I have an older version but this one is soooo much better. It has a protective guard to keep me from burning myself and it has several attachments. The one of choice to me is the larger ironing tip. I can't tell you how great this iron work with Piecing in the Hoop TM!! Thanks CLOVER!!!

Two New Additions....

2009-10-25T22:32:00.003-05:00

I've been waiting on these two little babies for 6 weeks now to be weened and today we got to bring them home. Meet CoCo and Perry, her brother. Linsey was beside herself and Talon was jealous a little of the attention they were getting.

What a cute little addition to our lil family. Thanks Aunt NaeNae!

Travel Pouch

2009-10-21T17:08:00.003-05:00

I had fun making this "in the hoop" Travel Pouch. I made it out of necessity and wanted to share with you.

You can find it on my website at PIECE IN THE HOOP

Stocking "Pieced In The Hoop"

2009-10-20T14:59:00.004-05:00

I had a request by a dear friend, Barbara B. asking for a stocking. I drew one up in CAD last night and devised a way to make this ~7" x 12" stocking in 2 5x7 hoopings!

It's all crazy pieced which means you can use of those reds or Christmas fabrics from your stash. You can also have fun with your sewing machine and add decorative stitches to the seams as done in Victorian Crazy projects.

A use of a sewing machine is also required for minimal sewing. I'll have it uploaded as soon as I type up the instructions. Until then.. Happy Piecing!

UPDATED: We now have it ready for downloading.

Quilt Market was a SUCCESS!!

2009-10-14T09:21:00.007-05:00

With over 2000 booths setup, it took me 2 days to go through them all. I wished I had time to visit more but man... what a spread!

Driving into Houston was a little dreary but after entering the George R. Brown Convention Center all the gloom disappeared.

I had a fun time in the Krause Publications booth with my fellow authors and F+W Staff. Getting to see Nancy Zieman again was quite the treat too. I wore my sporty lil apron all over an folks stopped to ask me what it was about and I was happy to explain.

I was excited to meet so many interesting people. I met Hoodie, the designer of the chicken fabric used on the cover of my book and my PITH handbag. I finally got to put faces with names too. I went to all the booths, shook hands with my suppliers, and thanked everyone who helped me with my book. I'm so humbled to have so much support from a community that doesn't accept strangers. I met with Electric Quilt and we will have a CD out sometime next year with them so that's a HUGE announcement. I will be doing exclusive digitizing for Tricia Cribbs, author of Turning 20. What a dear, sweet woman she is! I picked up more sponsors too, one of the perks for writing a book. I'm so blessed and thankful.

Jamie Gehring & Myself in the Krause Booth

Jamie also wore the apron I stitched for her too. I really hope my book does good! It's set to be shipped out 12-31-09. I'm taking pre-orders on my website and I'll ship to you ASAP!

Here's to making more great memories and to a successful journey!

International Quilt Market

2009-10-09T16:11:00.002-05:00

I will be attending market this year. Come see me in booth 1603! I'll be there all day Saturday.

Turning into a "Bag" Lady

2009-10-08T21:42:00.004-05:00

I had so much fun with the last bag that I had to make another one. I did this one a little different. I quilted this one to give it much needed stiffness. I also enlarged it to 12" x 14".

Do you recognize the fabrics?
These are the fabrics used in the log cab blocks on the
cover of my book. Blank Textiles is the creator of the chickens.

I also added some pockets inside to hold my keys etc.

This baby's going to Quilt Market with me!!

A Mystery is Revealed.....

2009-10-08T02:10:00.004-05:00

I started out by sewing in a section of white so that I could have a clean place to embroider.

Place another piece of fabric, right sides together. Sew like you would a pillow case, around 3 sides leaving the top open.

Grab the corners, press flat. I drew a line across the fabric and stitched directly to it, then trimmed away excess.

Do the same for the lining EXCEPT, leave a 4" to 5" slit in the bottom and still leave the top open. Turn inside out.

Place the lining into the from fabric, rights sides facing.

Stitch top, sewing both fabrics together.

Locate the slit in the lining and turn completely inside out. Press crease flat.

Stitch along the top to give a nice finished edge.

I stitched a smaller ribbon to hand bag straps, then folded edges making sure both straps were equal.

I used the "ole" 3 finger measurement and pinned a strap into place. Stitch a square then an "X" to secure strap to bag. do this for all 4 sides.

You're Done!!. Measures 10" x 10"

From the cute fabrics in my previous post, I made this darling hand bag. It was SEW SIMPLE. I can honestly say that this is the first time I have ever attempted a sewing project of this nature. I saw some bags that Caroll made over at the Attic Window Quilt Shop that inspired me to try sewing a bag. I drafted a pattern and I've very proud of the outcome. I know there are things I can do different and I will try my new ideas this morning for another design to follow soon.

I have LOTS more picS and tips for this project.

UPDATE: Design & Instructions are AVAILABLE NOW.

Enjoy,

Piece in the Hoop Mouse Pad

2009-10-07T15:17:00.002-05:00

Yeah! The mail came and my business cards showed up just in time for Quilt Market. I also ordered a matching mouse pad to see how the quality was and I'm impressed. If you want one, let me know and next time I place an order, I'll add you one to the list. Cost is $9.95.

Hmmm...what-cha got planned with those?

2009-10-07T15:07:00.003-05:00

I went to "town" today and I spotted a few items and my mind went off in 10 different directions. I settled on 2 ideas and here are the beginnings of them.

Mystery Project #1

Mystery Project #2

Join my blog and follow to see just what I'm going to do with these 2 mystery projects!!

Mini Quilt - Home is Where...

2009-10-06T01:18:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to share with you what's coming soon to Piece in the Hoop TM. I created several mini-quilts and this is the first to stitch out. It comes in 2 sizes 5x7 & 6x8 and two ways to finish so that's a total of 4 files. That's right you can even sew the binding out in the hoop or you can use my "pillow-sham" technique that too is included in a file.

This pic shows the binding sewn on in the hoop!

This pic shows the back and how the quilting is too done in the hoop.

This is for all skill levels because my directions are pictorial and very detailed.

UPDATE: Designs are uploaded

Crockpot Carne Guisada

2009-10-05T13:45:00.006-05:00

What You Need

• 3 pounds beef stew meat
• 2 cans diced Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 diced bell pepper

What To Do

1. Place stew meat, 1/4 cup water, salt and pepper in crock-pot. Turn heat to
high and let simmer for 1 1/2 hours.

2. Drain juice from tomatoes into measuring cup. Add tomatoes, garlic and onions to crock-pot. Stir and simmer on high for 30 minutes.

3. Add cumin, oregano, and chili powder to crock-pot and stir. Blend reserved tomato juice and enough water to equal 1 1/2 cups liquid. Add to crock-pot along with flour and stir.

4. Cook on low 3-4 hours until sauce thickens.

I found this online

Pumpkin Pickin Time

2009-10-05T12:21:00.009-05:00

By customer request from dear Shirley K., I've digitized a cute lil pumpkin. It's pieced all in ONE 5x7 hooping on the embroidery machine.

Chart's printed, fabric are gathered, now time to embroider!

Our stitching-n-flipping has begun. Press each piece neatly fusing to the stabilizer.

I added a leave and vines to give it added dimension.

Ta Da! It finishes 5".

One thing I found out while choosing fabrics is that I need a better selection of ORANGES! I just hate that I have to go buy more fabrics (big grin).

I just updated this post by adding the wall hanging below. Join my Yahoo Forum and download instructions on how to make this cute lil Fall Wall Hanging. I also include the text as a FREE DESIGN too!

Have you seen this in your local Pizza Hut

2009-10-04T21:01:00.006-05:00

I was cleaning out my office today and I came across something that was very special to me. Back in 1996ish I was working for a company out of Baytown, TX call Windsor Kristin. We were responsible for creating all the decorations for Pizza Hut's across the nation. We stuffed the macaroni & pickled veggies in the decorative jars, made the framed artwork, created all greenery and I had a very special part in all of this.... I got to design the wall paper border! I was commissioned out of desperation to paint a tattered book shelf with books and names on the books that showcased the big-wigs of PH. I added my name to the book; at the time I was married to a Malone and I placed my name on a book spine. They man that was supposed to do it was on a drunken stupor so LouAnn gave me about 8hrs to get something finished. She said I captured the essense... so I assumed that meant I did okay.

This was a big day for me. I'm wondering.... did you ever see it in your local Pizza Hut?

My office is FINISHED

2009-10-04T15:47:00.008-05:00

Here are some before and after pic of my home office. I painted the walls a soothing green and the cabinets came from a house getting rid of their cabinets so I snagged them and painted them white.

I didn't' want the doors back on the cabinets because I like the openness. Below is my sewing & embroidery area. I'm blessed to have 2 dedicated areas. It make my life much easier.

I folded fabric all day. I have them all organized by 1930 & Civil War Repros, homespuns, novelty fabs then by shades. Below is my ironing & cutting station.

Here is my digitizing area

Since I do all my web graphics and uploading, I also do my own photography, so I have a designated photo booth. Below is black felt stapled to the wall. Prop set on the side bookshelf

I'm soooo glad that it's complete and NOW organized

Itty Bitty Wibbit

2009-10-04T09:57:00.007-05:00

Talon found a baby frog. It was soooo tiny that I can't say I've ever seen one so itty bitty.

ZZ had to hold it too. We let him loose and Talon said "Wibbit Bye Bye."

How do you spell DESSERT?

2009-10-03T19:20:00.009-05:00

I remember back in school, it was my art teacher who taught me a little lesson on the difference between desert & dessert. She said you can remember that dessert has 2 S's because you always wanna come back for seconds.

After making the crockpot enchilada's me and the kids made brownies for dessert. Talon helped me crack the eggs and ZZ added the oil & water.

There was a fight for the bowl so we all got battered spoons. Ahhh the rewards for making deSSert! Yum Yum!

Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

2009-10-03T12:31:00.008-05:00

1 can enchilada sauce

4 chicken breasts

1 small can sliced black olives

2 dozen corn tortillas

1 chopped onion

2 cans cream-a-chicken soup

2 cups shredded cheese

What To Do

1. Cook chicken and shred.

2. Mix soup, olives and onions.

3. Cut tortillas in wedges.

4. Layer crockpot with sauce, tortillas, soup mix, chicken and cheese all the way to top, ending with cheese on top.

5. Cook on low 7-10 hours.

2 Bits 4 Bits....

2009-10-03T12:26:00.004-05:00

Today was a one day Cheer Camp teaching the girls two cheers that they'll perform on Friday's game. I'm so proud of Linsey. She's been working an entire month on stretching and trying to do the splits. She was just beaming.

Goooo ZZ!

Blessings from the Mount

2009-09-30T08:45:00.007-05:00

I have a new set just uploaded called Beatitudes, taken from Matthew 5:3-10. I had a blast stitching them out. It was fun to do simple Piecing in the Hoop™, applique and stitching text and lil embellishments to each block. VISIT WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS on this set.

Happy Stitchin,

Gift Reminder Software

2009-09-28T22:28:00.008-05:00

I stumbled upon a software that I thought was a neat idea. The Gift Reminder Maker (TM) creates gift reminder personalized pop-ups to help you remember to make/buy a gift for an upcoming event. You can store birthdays, anniversaries etcs.

Sometimes we all need a little reminder.

Piecing with an Apron

2009-09-28T08:08:00.005-05:00

Jamie G. of Krause Publications send me an apron to stitch my logo onto. She's going to be working F+W's booth at quilt market this year and thought it would be good publicity. We have an apron in the book too so stay tuned!

I do have a small confession to make. I was in my jammies when I made this so I had to run and change for a quick photo to share. LOL. Working in jammies is just one of the perks from being a stay at home working momma!

Happy Stitchin,

Next to Quiltin...

2009-09-28T07:49:00.006-05:00

Photography is a passion of mine along with my quilting. I love still shots mostly and trying to capture something pretty from something not so attractive because I believe there is beauty in everything. Yesterday, me and my son Talon walked around the yard looking for things to photograph and we were delighted to find some butterflies.

Oh and my lil guy even picked me a flower and passed to me in the bright sunshine.

What a happy Sunday!

The cover of my book!!!

2009-09-15T16:16:00.004-05:00

I'm so excited that I got to see what my books actually gonna look like!!

Photo Shoot in Cincinnati

2009-09-03T04:37:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to share a few pics from my trip to Ohio. I went there to take the still shots for my upcoming book. I brought my sister Sandy with me and we took a 9 day trip. We left a few days early to enjoy some scenery in Pigeon Forge, TN. Yes, I drove and loved it!! We crossed over 9 states and took all in that we could. We spent Mon-Fri in Cincinnati and the Krause team was GREAT!! I actually drove 16+hrs home after leaving at 2am Saturday morning cause we were missin' home. It was not boring to say the least with my silly sister by my side.

Christine (photographer), Me & Vanessa (editor)

Me and my sister sporting no makeup on the long drive but still having a ball.

Hugs,

Day 3 of Shooting is Done!

2009-07-22T20:28:00.005-05:00

Man I have been stitching like a mad woman! I'm sewing out all the projects in step by step process of still camera shots. It's pretty interesting seeing it all come together. The Krause folks are really nice. Tomorrow the "big wigs" are coming in to watch me demo the PITH technique. I'm really excited about meeting all the buyers etc. I still have stitching to do tomorrow. Each night I've had "homework" in preparation for the nexts days shoot so that means lated nights and tylenol PM to shut my brain down from thinking! LOL

I sure miss my kiddos.....

PITH Book Photoshoot

2009-07-20T19:07:00.005-05:00

Wow! The temperature here in Cincinnati is awesome compared to our hot, humid Texas days. The photo shoot is going great. Day one of 5 was successful. I was able to finish 5 of 21 projects. Tomorrow will go much faster now that everything is setup and organized. Thanks to my sister Sandy for her tidy organizational skills! We left Friday from Texas about 4am and set out to enjoy 2 days of vacation before a long week of work. We traveled through LA, MS, AL, TN, NC, VA, KY and now in OH. We enjoyed 2 nights nestled in the Smoky Mountains taking in all the beauty then traveled through the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. The views have to be as close to what heaven looks like. We even reached the end of the Cumberland Gap in Virginia on our way to Cincinnati. We traveled 1500+ miles since Friday and we have a little over a 1200 left to go home. We'll take a different route home just to get a few extra views in. Well I'm gone for now have a great evenin'.

Hugs,

Going mobile!

2009-06-04T23:40:00.003-05:00

I'm setting up my blogger so that I can keep updating when I'm out of the office.

Hugs,

Photos of my trip to WI

2009-05-21T19:44:00.003-05:00

A day of a lifetime!!

2009-05-21T19:29:00.011-05:00

I just had one of the best career days of my life!! We just finished taping the DVD that's going with my book. I never felt so welcome! Nancy, Deanna & Lois are true jewels. My dear friend Sandy Kent went with me and the two of us will never forget this moment. I can't wait until January when we can see it all come together.

Oh Happy Day!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T12:55:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share a picture Linsey (ZZ) drew for Easter and gave to me this morning. She drew the bunny's head similar to a heart. Linsey is 8yrs old and I think she's quiet the creative lil artist!

Huggies,

Great News!!!

2009-04-12T12:26:00.004-05:00

I received a call on Friday from my publisher letting me know that the scheduled book release is being moved up by FOUR months!! The new release date is January 1, 2010. I will be taking pre-orders later on in the year for autographed copies (tee hee). My last deadline is May 15th so please keep me in your prayers that all goes smooth please. I will then fly to Cincinnati for a week for a photo shoot so I can show step by steps etc. Finally I have a week in Wisconsin with Nancy Zieman so we can tape the DVD that will go with the book.

I'm pumped!!!! Thank you God for ALL my blessings.

Quilty Hugs,

Long Awaited Lonestar

2009-03-30T21:20:00.005-05:00

The long awaited Lone Star Pieced in the Hoop™ is now ready! I'm so very excited to have it completed. I'm telling you the development of this particular design has opened a bunch of doors for harder to piece blocks.

Once you try it you'll say.. "Hmm, WOW, those point do align almost effortlessly!" You will see a bunch more multi-sectioned blocks to come but able to stitch out all in ONE hooping, so stay tuned.

Quilty Hugs,
Larisa

My product find and it's new use!

2009-03-22T15:26:00.007-05:00

I found the most amazing product to clean my car! I know you've seen the commercials but let me tell you what it does for an automobile.

1. Takes water spots off of glass and make them sparkle
2. Shines chrome like new
3. Removes those nasty love bugs that stick to your grill and paint
4. Removes tar and hard to remove stains
5. Cleaned the exterior leather

I love using this for cleaning my car.

Oh BTW, I know you've seen me sign my name using my nickname and I've decided to use it from now on. I need a new change so why not start with a new name (tee hee).

Hugs,

I'm back...

2009-03-19T18:50:00.005-05:00

I have missed writing in my blog but life has it's little ups and downs. I'm finally on the "up" again. (smile). I hyper-extended my ring finger over a month ago and I'm just now able to type without pain. My finger is still sensitive, but it's not going to stop me from my goals.

Thanks to the help of MJ, Sandy & Angi, I was able to meet my first deadline on the book. THANK YOU GALS!!!! Today I uploaded over 25 single quilt block designs. I received several requests to take the Ida block sets and make singles from them so that's just what I did. I made rows 4-6 available as singles.

Tomorrow I work on photographing and writing instructions for the Lonestar quilt block. This is a new way of Piecing in the Hoop and I have to make sure the directions are clear. By figuring out how to make this block, I opened the door to several other types of quilt block designs that are not easy to paper-piece... but I DID IT!!!! Below is a glimpse of the Lonestar project that will be available March 31st.

Happy Sewing Y'all!!

Dear Santa...

2008-12-16T20:56:00.005-06:00

I wanted to share some family pics tonight. I took the two kiddos to see Santa. Talon wasn't too fond of him, but he didn't cry he just kinda scowled at him. That was funny to watch.

I took this just before we left:

I couldn't ask for a better Christmas present than to see those two smiles on my babies faces.

It's a Family Tradition....

2008-12-12T13:09:00.006-06:00

When Linsey was born I started an ornament tradition with her. Each year I purchased an ornament that depicted "her". Now that she's older, I let her pic one out and she chose this one because she said she's now a Sister (and a good one at that!).

And she helped me pick out this one for Talon. She said momma since's he's one, let's get this one, so I did.

Snow Today... Gone Tomorrow

2008-12-12T12:30:00.009-06:00

I've been a little busy getting the kiddos Christmas items together and working on new designs that I've forgotten to write you.

It so very hard to believe but we actually got SNOW the other night!!! I was about 7yrs old the last time it snowed enough throw snowballs at each other. What a special blessing this was. I woke Linsey up at 4:30 in the morning all excited to show her the flurries falling. She was so excited that she teared up. She's such a sentimental little girl. As soon as the sun came up I bundled her up and she and I went outside to have some fun. It was sooo beautiful, so pure, so COOOLD! Burrr. It's not that often we get cold weather like this in southeast Texas. Sweetpea made her first snowball and snowman. We only got 3" of snow so that's not much to make a larger Frosty. I remember that when it snowed when I was a kid of her age, we scraped the top off and ate it. I let Sweetpea taste it too.

We had a really good time together that morning then it was off to school. I let her be late to experience this once in a lifetime event here in Texas. The saddest part of it all is that it was all gone by the evening but the memories will last a lifetime. I hope Linsey gets to share a snow day with her children one day and tell them the time her mommy let her be late for school so she could spend time with her. I've been praying for a "sign" that I could see to make sure I'm doing things right and I'd have to say that this IS IT!

We love our Flaky Family!!

Linsey's friend needs a birthday gift.

2008-12-06T01:04:00.007-06:00

Linsey has a sweet little friend in second grade who has a birthday on the 12th and she came home asking me to make her something so I made her a cute 'lil personalized bag tonight.

I purchased the bag from Wal-Mart. I ripped the sides apart to make it easier for me to embroider on. I chose 2 ribbons and stitched the black polka-dot to the solid white. I made 2 of these so it looks like it wraps around the bag.I used some 505 spray adhesive on the back of the black ribbon to hold into place and I also used it to position the completed ribbon to the pink back on both front and back of the bag. Next, I stitched the ribbons down on the front then I aligned the ribbon to the back so that the edges matched then I sewed it onto the bag. I then embroidered Shelby's name onto the bag, and added a lil bow. Finally, I stitched the bag closed.

Now, I'll probably get her some goodies to go inside the bag and send it on it's merry way to school with Linsey.

Crafty Quick Sew Bibs

2008-12-06T00:54:00.007-06:00

I was in a crafting mood tonight so I made a few bibs for Talon. I started out with a tea towel that I purchased in a discount bin at Micheal's a few years ago. Next I cut out a circle then I cut the opening apart.

Next, I cut an orange strip of fabric approximately 31" x 2". I folded the sides to the center, pressed then I folded in half and pressed to make some simple binding. You need to stitch a raw edge (see photo below), then pin the binding in place over the raw neck edge.Go to your sewing machine and slowly stitch the binding closed. The ends of the binding need to be finished so I just folded twice then zigzagged closed. Finally I embroidered Talon's name then I stitched on some rick rack for extra pizazz.
Below I made another bib but this time I stitched some octopus fabric to the bottom then embroidered his name. I'm going to make some out of large wash cloths next. You can never have enough bibs!!!

2008-12-05T20:29:00.004-06:00

Tony and Jonie are coming to you soon. These are both entirely made in the hoop. I've created a series of frames that you can import your design stash into. I'm looking forward to uploading and seeing them on the website.

Quilty Hugs,

Talon's ONE Now

2008-12-01T21:37:00.008-06:00

My lil man is officially one year old now. It was just yesterday I held him in one hand and now I'm struggling to use both. I made his lil shirt. I downloaded a coloring page and colored it in using my graphics program then added the text and crayon. It's an iron on. Feel free to print it out but be sure to reverse it first.

Linsey helped me make the cake and I caught her in the icing.

I love my new phone!

What is this gooey substance; it's all new to me?

Mommy that was some gooooood cake!

Now, Christmas is on it's way!

I'm THANKFUL for you!

2008-11-27T15:25:00.003-06:00

Here I am, alone on Thanksgiving Day because my kids are at their dads. I'm sad to not be with them, but I'm not sad to be alone. I just have soooo much to be thankful for. On days like today, I'm thankful for YOU!

Because of you....

I've kept my mind busy today thinking, planning, designing new items for you. It feels good to be wanted.
I'm able to be a Work at Home Mom (WAHM).
I'm able to be with my children full time as a mommy and because you buy my designs, I can be daddy too and support us.
I can use the talents God gave me and enjoy what I do for a living.
I can feel confident in my work from all the sweet emails I get from you that encourage me to do more.

I am most thankful for your friendship(s). May God bless each of you.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Oh I "love" the UPS man!!

2008-11-25T09:07:00.004-06:00

Well besides him being sexy in his cute brown uniform, I like to see my UPS man coming because he has goodies for me.

I received my donation box from OLFA and June Tailor. They sent me products to test and use in photography of my instructions. June Tailor sent me the largest cutting mat and an ironing board cover that has measured markings on it. It'll be helpful when pressing quilt squares.

I got all of this from OLFA plus an extra large cutting mat!

Christmas came early for me!!

We called it Calf Slobber

2008-11-25T09:01:00.004-06:00

What... you didn't call it that? LOL Growing up, I didn't care for homemade meringue, I preferred cool whip. Now, as an adult, I can at least tolerate it and I ONLY include it for the appearance. My brother-in-law repaired my car and asked for a chocolate pie in return so one chocolate pie with extra calf slobber coming up.

FREE Dr. Pepper for everyone in America

2008-11-23T08:12:00.003-06:00

Well Dr. Pepper is holding up to their comment about promising everyone in the USA a FREE Dr. Pepper. You can call 1.800.696.5891 or log onto their website at www.drpepper.com and register so they can send you a coupon for a free 20 oz. drink.

Ahhhh, I love my Dr. Pepper and I want it full strength and not the "unleaded" version. LOL

I feel like baking....

2008-11-18T14:23:00.009-06:00

I just got home from teaching at The Fabric Store and decided I was gonna bake a cake for Linsey before she got home from school. I'm making a "Velvet Cake". Yes, that's minus the red food coloring LOL.

As you can see, I use clothes pins for lots of things. Talon helped me by pulling all of my pots and lids from my lower cabinet to the middle of the floor. He made some beautiful, LOUD music for me too by clanging the lids on the floor then to each other. As I got out the spatula from the drawer I remembered when my mom would bake. We called this utensil the "child cheater" because it scraped the bowl just a little too good. I made sure I saved me and T some to lick. From the look of this pic it seems he loved it!

We then waited on the cakes to cool so we could ice it. I got Talon all cleaned up then I went and precut some fabrics that I plan on using for another Lone Star. He tagged along and helped me there too.

ZZ just got home and loved her surprise. Well I'd better get ready for tonight's class back at The Fabric Store.

Lone Star Block, Bread and Thread

2008-11-17T00:01:00.009-06:00

Yes block and not Lone Star Beer and Bob Will music. LOL I'm showing my age by knowing that song huh? I love Texas Swing music but I actually like it quiet when I'm working.

I had a VERY productive weekend. I totally cleaned the house super good so that I could take this week to focus on things that need to be stitched out. I tested my sample Lone Star quilt block that I pieced with my embroidery machine. I developed a NEW PITH technique that I'm currently working on getting patented. Yep.. I love this new invention I came up with in the hoop. Here's a lookie-lou at the unfinished top. Currently it measures about 20". I'm going to add some kind of border and I'm leaning towards piano keys. I'm stopping for the night and will take a fresh look tomorrow.

I used Thimbleberries Subtle Solids by RJR

I also made some homemade white bread today. This was my first loaf of the year and definitely not the last. I slathered mine with real whipped butter while everyone else smeared red plum and strawberry jam on theirs.

Oh.... this past Friday was like Christmas for me. I received 24 spools of embroidery thread and stabilizer from Floriani. I really like their stabilizers for the PITH method. I'm testing a new product that the have released. It's a fusible wash-away. So far I like it. I will let you know how easy it is to wash out when I get to that step.

I'm finding that writing a book can get you lots of goodies. Olfa and June Tailor are sending samples to try out. I received my fabrics from Moda and RJR and cotton thread from Superior Threads. I'm working now on getting a loaner machine from either Bernina or Brother/Baby Lock but perhaps from both so that I can test in different formats. This is all still so surreal for me. Well it's morning time here in Texas and I'm signing off and "two stepping" outta here.

Displaying My Quilts

2008-11-10T20:44:00.006-06:00

My cousin gave me this idea and I just had to do it. I went to Home Depot and purchased a 1 x 2 for only .99. They came in 8ft lengths so I asked them to cut them in 1/2 and they did so for no additional charge. Then I rounded up some "chip clips", aka clothes pins and some Gorilla Glue. I glued the clothes pins to the board and allowed to dry over night. Something I didn't know was that Gorilla Glue expands, so I'm telling you this so that you won't use as much as I did. The next day, I screwed them to the wall and clipped my lil quilts in place. This method of hanging them allows for quick changes anytime I want a new scenery to view. I'm going to spray paint them white to blend in with my wall. I think this will allow my quilts to pop off the walls more.

My sewing area is complete... YEAH!!

2008-11-10T18:54:00.006-06:00

I work sooo much better when there's little to no clutter. It's also nice to know that everything is in it's place. Now that hurricane season has once again flew over us I have another year to rest. Well, I'm off to watching some TV with Linsey. Monday nights she want's me to watch Dancing with the Stars with her. I generally don't watch TV but have to admit, I got into this show. LOL. I'm gonna go microwave some buttery popcorn and have our mommy-daughter time.

Is the weekend reallly over?

2008-11-09T20:19:00.007-06:00

Man, I was one busy momma this weekend. I'm actually glad it's over because I pooped form getting so much done. My car is at the doctor. It seems my distributor is out so ugggggg. I'm not sure when I'll get it back but it should be sometime this week. Thank goodness my family lives near me so they can shuttle me around. I spent most of my Saturday over at my baby sisters house. My older sister drove up and momma was there too so it was like a mini family get-together. It's nice to have everyone together other than for a holiday or a funeral.

Well Sunday rolled along and I was up at 5:00am courtesy of lil Talon. After we did our morning routine I commenced to tackling more cleanup. The only sign that Ike was here is the "shoddy" porch my landlord re-installed. My house is all cleaned up from the water that got under the front door. I have 90% of my sewing area back in order and that's a HUGE sigh of relief. Now, I can get back to working in a nice, organized area rather than a make-shift office. I even cleaned out the utility/storage area. I went through every box and if I haven't used it in 6mos, it was tossed in boxes to give away. I knew it wouldn't be long before I had to get out the Christmas boxes, so I reorganized that area as well making them easier to get too.

Linsey is pestering me to go ahead and put a tree up and even though I generally wait until the day after Thanksgiving, we just might do it early. I joke about my Charlie Brown artificial Christmas tree to my family. It's limbs are spread out and you can see the trunk through-out. Linsey picked it out last year on a trip to Hobby Lobby and later I fell in love with it. I like the fact that the lights are built-in so lets just hope that it cuts on cause I hate stringing lights.

Speaking of Christmas, it's hard to believe that before we know it it will be here. It's gonna be a little different being just us three, but I will make the best of it! I'm even gonna plan a small meal and get Linsey to help me cook. I think all Talon will be interested in is pulling bows off presents and learning "no-no" as he approaches the tree. He will be one year old on the 29th of this month and who knows if he'll be walking by then. He's getting close.

Well, I'm am slap wore out from all the work and organization I accomplished today so I'm gonna go soak in some bubbles now that the kiddos are in la-la land.

New Blog Setup

2008-11-07T11:16:00.010-06:00

I'm glad I just got started because it seems that most use blogspot.com and I found that is was more user friendly than wordpress. So, I moved my previous posts over to this new one. I hope you enjoy the "newer" look.

It takes one to STENO one…

2008-11-07T01:49:00.013-06:00

I know that was corny but hey, that’s me. Don’t you just love this steno pad cover? Sandy K. of Magnolia Springs, TX made this for me using one of PITH blocks… the log cabin. She even embroidered my name on it. WOW!!! What a nice gift huh!!?? I just had to share this with you. Thank you dear Sandy. I can’t wait to see you again.

I’m also happy to report that I made a little more progress on my Ike cleanup and reorganization of my sewing area. I actually have a place to walk now. I also have all of the Hidden Diamond blocks uploaded. I started mine in 5″ but I’m starting over to do the 10″ block. Once I have the top done, I’ll send to the quilter and then I’ll snap a photo to share. It’s a little after 10pm here so I’m gonna call it a day and just relax some and take some pain meds for this nasty lil nerve.

Pinched Nerve

2008-11-07T01:47:00.011-06:00

I do not know how it happened but I know it feels horrible. About 4 days I woke up with a burning in my left shoulder and when I moved, sharp pains jolted me. I finally went to the Dr. a couple days ago and he gave me a cortisone shot which hurt pretty bad itself! Well, it’s day two after the shot and I’m still hurting. The burning sensation is gone but the sharp, piercing pain is there when I lift my arm. This is not a good time. I’m soooo behind on getting things uploaded for my Hidden Diamond group. I also started a big mess in my house trying to utilize the space I have. Me and my kiddos live in a 2bdr. duplex so that leaves only the living room for office space. As you can see from the picture below, it’s a mess! I finally got things cleaned up from IKE’s nasty mess, now I just have to reorganize my sewing area.

Lions and Tigers and Bears...OH MY!

2008-11-07T01:42:00.006-06:00

Happy Halloween everyone. This turned out to be a fun festivity with my kiddos. Don’t you just love Dorothy & Toto? tee hee

Dorothy & Toto

The Journery Has Just Begun…

2008-11-07T01:38:00.009-06:00

I am on a new journey, one that I have never traveled before. I am about to embark on a project that has already begun to change my life. I submitted a book proposal with Krause Publications and it was approved with “great enthusiasm”. Not only will I have a book to work on but it will also arrive with a DVD. This is all so surreal. The book deal alone is monumental for me but there’s more. The DVD will be recorded with Nancy Zieman! I will be working side by side with her on a Sewing with Nancy series. Wow huh!! Can you see me smiling? LOL
I’d love to have you come along with me as I write as often as I can on all the happenings whether work or home related. After all, I’m a single mom of two children (Linsey 7 & Talon 11 months), THE breadwinner, a creative designer, entrepreneur, web builder, quilter, embroiderer, bread maker, country cooking, making sure Linsey has clean clothes and Talon is not out of diapers, “Jill of all trades.”