The Quilted Word by Frecklesquilts

New Moon Quilt: And SO it has been said....

2010-11-23T13:29:00.003-07:00

[quote="mama2cjmj"]Shannon,
We have received your request. This is the group's reply:
On August 4th the Twilight Quilters Coven entered an agreement to begin work on a New Moon Quilt to be donated to charity. The very first post states that it is intended for a charity auction with the final owner of any proceeds being Alex's Lemonade Stand:
[i]The Twilight Quilters Coven is proud to announce that we are planning a New Moon Quilt. We plan to have it display it at the Utah New Moon Movie Premier and [b]auction it off through a silent auction, with the proceeds going to the official TwilightMOMS charity, Alex's Lemonade Stand.
Quilters of all levels are invited to participate.[/b] We love to make new friends who love Twilight as much as we do and want to find a way to represent that passion in fabric.[/i]
Rules were set by head coordinator, Elizabeth. These are some rules that we want to address:
[i]Here is our layout, by Iris & Shannon:[/i][img]http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/mama2cjmj/Twilight%20Quilt/newmoonquilt.jpg[/img]
[color=#0000FF]The final layout of the finished quilt, which was solely determined by you, does not follow these specifications.[/color]
[i]You absolutely MUST follow through on your committment. Do not sign up if you do not plan to follow through.[/i]
[color=#0000FF]Demanding that your blocks be returned would violate your commitment.[/color]
[i]Life gets busy sometimes, and we can extend deadlines if the situation demands it, but plan ahead to make sure you're able to follow through.[/i]
[color=#0000FF]While you expressed concerns on other members' timeliness on deadlines, the last blocks to be completed almost 3 weeks beyond all others turned in were your blocks. This was a concern for the quilter, but was graciously overlooked by the group.[/color]
[i]By signing up to participate, you agree supply your own fabrics for the portion of the quilt you sign up for[/i]
[color=#0000FF]Demanding that your blocks be returned would violate this commitment as well.[/color]
[i]We are not expecting perfection, and quilters and sewers of all levels are welcome to participate. [/i]
[color=#0000FF]By publicly insulting the quilting abilities of other members you went against one of the core principles of the group.[/color]
[i]The amount of time you invest in this project will be soley up to you.[/i]
[color=#0000FF]The amount of time you invested a) the blocks that you publicly signed up for b) the "additional" blocks you took it upon yourself to decide were needed without the consent of the group and c) altering other members' blocks without consent of those individuals, was considerable. But it was of your choosing.[/color]
[i]Open discussion is welcome and [b]even expected.[/b] We love to see what you're up to, so please feel free to post with questions, concerns, pictures, etc.[/i]
[color=#0000FF]You chose to only discuss concerns with co-coordinators, rather than openly talk to each contributor. And decisions on alterations were not even mentioned to co-coordinators until after they were done. [/color]
[b]No one entity owns the Twilight Quilters Coven therefor no one person can claim ownership of something that is done as a group effort.[/b]
1) You made your donation. The blocks cannot and will not be returned.2) Participation in a group project overrides any personal ownership of work provided for said project.3) Events by Alice, has no authority to make any offers on our behalf in reference to the quilt. Nor does any other entity or individual. The Twilight Quilters Coven as a group hold all rights to make decisions for the group by majority consent. Any offers of compensation by any other entity or individual are null and void.4) This is a volunteer organization. [b]No one[/b] gets paid.[/quote]

I NEVER ONCE ASKED TO BE PAID AND AM SICKENED BY THE SUGGESTION THAT I EVER DID. I ONLY WANT MY QUILT BLOCKS BACK.

New Moon Quilt: Behind the Scenes Chit Chat

2010-11-23T13:29:00.002-07:00

What am I to believe?
Am I to believe that nothing that was said to me was the truth? Why did people say these things to me? Were they lying? Did they just want me to do the work and finish the quilt? What about from the very beginning? Someone could have told me to stop and that I should step down. No, they waited until the quilt was done and mailed.

I included all the message unless it contained personal information or non-quilt chit chat. All messages are from PM's on Twilight Moms in response to me or initiated by another person.

Angie's a handful....may be even more than me. :rolf:
Edge-to
edge--gah?!, shannon

:rolf: :rolf: :rolf: I guess that answered our question earlier about free motion vs programmed quilting. Oh well, it will look nicer and be done faster than anything I could do at home.....
I can't believe her complaining about the size though! I'm guessing she's doing a Bella falling through sky progression (which I'm not liking the idea of) but still, when people fall/jump off a cliff, they fall close to the cliff edge.....it doesn't need to be wide! And Bella doesn't need to be big enough to have a face or anything. :pray: don't let her try to get a face on her! I'm not crazy about Melly putting faces on the Volturi, (and the cloaks look like nuns habits! :rolf: ) but I kept my mouth shut cuz she's already cut that out and she's a newbie, but Angie professes to be a pro.....
I'm still in a PMS mood, so couldn't hold back all my opinions! ;)
mama2cjmj, 8/14/09

In a perfect world I would like to have 14 x 9 but I know that won't work. The drawing I just did is 12x9 but I could cut it down to 12x7 with little problem. Any smaller than that, I don't know if I can get it all in there. I am doing it all neddle turned so I don't want it to look messy.
I hear you on the sashing, I like sashing to be equal, especially for the quilting side of it...nothing give me more headache than borders and sashing that is not straight...just my opinion. Are we doing the designed borders like in the dragonfly design???
Angie
jewah1976, 8/15/09

I read your post...and Iris' after you (she sounds unhappy). I don't want to be a problem for sure, I just want it to be great! Plus I think the standard sashing is needed. As long as it is atleast 12" high, I can do 9 or 7 inches wide....
Angie
jewah1976, 8/15/09

It will work out I am sure. I can see by the stuff you make that you put alot of thought into the process, that is key in quilting. When you don't think about the end result, things get funky...fast. Plus, since you are going to be the one responsible for making it all fit together, I think you are thinking that way now instead of later. Having more than one person peicing is always a challenge...it will work out, I have faith. :shy:
Let me know if you need anything from me.
Angie
jewah1976, 8/15/09

Shannon,
To be honest, I wasn't quite sure why Iris drafted things out at such irregular sizes (originally my sun was supposed to be 5x6 :confused: ). I think that she was just trying to be helpful because you often wish that your dad would help you draft things out. Using what Iris has drafted, I think we can adjust and make everything line up. Even though dragonfly quilt had many blocks of different sizes, I'm fairly certain the sashing and blocks all lined up.
Let's not let this get too stressful. I'm sorry we're all in the middle of a creative mess again :lol: . I liked your assessments of everyone's reactions -- especially Mel being confused :lol: .
Sending :hug: your way,E
lizziebug, 8/15/09

.......
As for running out of steam on the New Moon project, at soon as you start getting blocks you'll get your snap back and be right in there excited about it. You are my quilting hero. You always have such great ideas and you are easily the best quilter in the group. Believe me. I've seen everyone's work ;) .:hug: and have a great evening!E
lizziebug, 9/2/09

You are too kind! Your pep talk helped!!

shannon
I'm glad it helped, and I hope you know I sincerely meant everything I said.
Sorry about having to run your kids all over the place. That is no fun :x .
I got the sashing and connector fabrics yesterday. I got them washed and will hopefully work with them today :D .
:hug: E
lizziebug, 9/4/09

I don't think quotes for every block. Just a few good ones.
E
lizziebug, 9/6/09

Are we going to do quotes? For every block...embroidered...?

shannon

I thought it would be cool to have a quote for each block. (hence my list I started) Not sure if everyone else wants them, and not sure if that sashing fabric, which I LOVE, is too busy? And we'd need to keep the quotes fairly short unless they are in small font. So, I vote for yes, but either 1) we ask Jerri Lynn how small she can embroider and see if we can fit them in, 2) we ask Angie to quilt them in, which may not show up too well on that fabric depending on how she does it, 3) make your own printable fabric strips, print and set them or 4) could stamp them on with fabric paint, or bleach (probably too painstakingly slow). So as usual, I'm no real help! :oops:
mama2cjmj, 9/6/09

Shannon,
I'm not sure what to tell you :hug: . There are going to be bumps in the road. But keep your eyes on the prize and imagine how great it will be to have assembled the quilt top.Think about it for a few days and if you decide that you really don't want to do it, I can assemble. But give it some good thought. Don't let a moment of frustration keep you from doing something that will make you feel so good when it is finished.
:hug: Elizziebug, 9/8/09

It will be fabulous, don't worry. It will work out the way it is supposed to. You have the hardest job of this whole thing. :flower:
Angie
jewah1976, 9/8/09

Did I miss something? Of course, you'll square up or adjust blocks for size and space. I added extra border fabric to the heart so you could do just that. . . . and, if it turns out that you need it even bigger, I trust you to pick a fabric to add as needed.
Everything is good here.
I should have more to show tomorrow or wed and everything in the mail by the end of the week.Joyce
livethedream, 9/8/09

My speakers don't work so I have no clue about the video! :thud: I think it's t be expected that some modifications need to be made to square off some blocks (my LTC block needs help, as it is too small...) I agree with Angie. Shannon has the hardest job of all. I am 100000000% sure it will turn out to be fabulous!!! :<3:>

I was out all day when I should have been home sewing and now I'm off again...
Angie's blocks have arrived! (Angie, look for a PM from me as I have some
questions.)
Also, I bought the sashing fabric so we can't change our
minds.
:rolf:
Later,
S

shannon
I am sure they will have some kind of 'issues' but do what you need to with them...short of taking them apart and tye dying them, you can't really hurt my feelings. Angie
jewah1976, 9/11/09

Do what you need to with the metor block, I did like how it ended up anyway...just like with the phone block, I didn't know how to make it not so bulky. I have since gotten some tips on the internet and videos to know how to make it better...too late now. The other 2 I made too big on purpose so trim them as you need them (learned that with the metor block).
The words are looking good...they will work out. I like the way the gold looks on the background.
Angie
jewah1976, 9/12/09

Shannon, talk about a block not belonging in this quilt! You Walk in the Woods belongs in an award winning photorealistic landscape quilt! It's gorgeous, so intricate. I know how hard it is to figure out just the right placement of fabric on pictoral scenes - that's why I've never done it! :lol:
Was it Angela who said "I'm not worthy" ^:)^ ^:)^ ^:)^
I have to ask if you're going to hate me too much if I ask for a little more time to send in my blocks. I only got two out of the 7 trees done and the airplane, and still have to do La Push then the two signs too.....and I made a boo boo on one of the trees.....and we're all sick around here (you were right!) I'm heading off to bed now, and I don't know if I'll be able to stay up tomorrow night......I can't be counted on to finish when I say I will. :oops: I know I wont be able to work on it much tomorrow, we have a whole bunch of appointments, but I have Thursday all to myself for most of the day so could finish and send off Friday? Priority of course, would get to you Monday. Is that too late?
mama2cjmj, 9/15/09

I claim no credit for the block except for sewing it. Thank you for liking it!
I'm embarrassed about how long it took me to decide whether or not to use the
pattern and to figure out how to use it without reducing it. I ended up just
using the center of the block pattern. Picking the fabrics was so tough for me
and I kept my fingers crossed the whole time that I'd be able to achieve the
effect I wanted. I was successful enough....

shannon

Well then, you'll have to share that pattern with me, because it is super cool!!!! :**:
I was re-vamping BD audio while sewing yesterday, and there's a line that I thought of when I saw your block and how much better it is than most of the others.....Jacob says to Carlisle when they are talking about chromosomal count...
"Can you dumb it down?" :rolf: :rolf: :rolf:
mama2cjmj, 9/16/09

I was beginning the agreed upon corrections to Angie's block. I didn't realize
all the issues, because I really was too frustrated to do so after seeing the
embroidery. I was ripping that out tonight when I realized all the piecing
errors. The grey part also has a loose edge, too.
I'm at the point where I'm
asking myself, "Are you freaking kidding me?" Could she not see these issues,
did she not realize them, or does she just not care?
I'm beginning to freak
a little about having Angie quilt this quilt.
I feel like a complete b*tch?
Shannon

Well, I'm sad that you get saddled with the frustrating job of fixing all these boo boos, but at least we have you to catch them and fix them. ^:)^ How do you get loose edges like that? It looks like it's turned over at the seam, not an exposed seam. Looked completely incorporated into the block.... I'm guessing she was too much in a hurry to get the blocks out to double check them.Well, as far as the quilting goes, her machine is programmable, and while it's not going to be the fantastic, unique, creative job that Vivian did, how bad can it get? It's still better than what I could do.
......I.
mama2cjmj, 9/17/09

No I didn't. I really messed up on the paper piecing. I am working on cat's forbidden fruit pattern today and am doing so much better than I did with those other two, i am sorry you got saddled with those 2 blocks. :wah:
I have a client that is a quilting teacher and she happened to come over when I was pulling my hair out with trying to learn it. She showed me some really basic tricks that seem to be making all the difference! I swear I will do better next time. :shy:
You can cuss me out if it will make you feel better.Ang
jewah1976, 9/19/09

Shannon,
First, I have to say thanks again for the nice compliments on my work. I was looking at the close-ups of them, and I missed a ton of match points :oops: .
I left an extra 1/4" all the way around each block. So, the Sun block is supposed to be 6 x 9, but it is 7 x 10, giving you a 1/4" seam allowance and 1/4" to work with if it isn't square. The rays of the sun on the top and left side are meant to be cut off a little in the seam allowance. It give the appearance of a continuous image, like there is something more off the page, instead of a sun just floating in mid-air. The soda cans will just have to float, though :lol: .
Three of the wolf paws are 4" and one is 3 7/8", and the proposal block is 7 x 7. There is a black border all the way around the heart. The blocks you sent me for the SM quilt were so [i]perfect[/i]; exactly the right size, etc., that I was worried about sending you something not-so-perfect. I debated between trimming them to their right size + seam allowance or leaving a little extra and decided to leave you some extra so you can fit them into the quilt without too much fuss. I worried about giving you extra work by leaving them for you to trim, but figured it would be more work for you if they were too small, or off the square. In any case, I hope they work.
Also, if you want to play around with the placement of the wolf paws, you could try Jared in the top right corner and Embry in the top of the right side sashing. I don't know if they'll look too clumped together as I listed them on the thread.
Thanks for all your hard work on this. I hope you enjoy the assembly portion. Your blocks are amazing. I can't wait to see what you come up with for the motorcycles. You always do a great job.
Oh, I checked out the Silver Linings site. I love her work. I love the 2007 flower mosaic quilt. That is absolutely amazing.
Have a nice day -- sorry your freezing. I used to freeze all the time too, but since I had Amy, my thermostat is messed up and I'm hot -- sweaty (which I never used to do) all the time. I used to hate the AC in summer and turn into a popsicle in winter, so I can totally relate.
:hug: E
lizziebug, 9/24/09

Thanks so much, Shannon. I think the Jacob's sun is my favorite of the blocks, but I really love how the stem and petals turned out on the roses.
I'll check out the blog and see what's there. I'm glad you posted -- it was on my LONG to-do list, so I'll check it out and see if I need to add anything.
I'm glad you're feeling excited about the blocks. How did Cat's Porsche turn out? I' curious to see the conversation hearts and Joyce's blocks too.
Thanks again,Elizabeth
lizziebug, 9/24/09

Shannon-I re did the phone block (still need to put the cord on) I like this one MUCH better. I figured out that the pattern had a spot in it where the numbers were out of order, I tried it 3 different ways and realized there was no way to do it in that order without there being a raw edge. So I re-numbered that part at it worked out fine. I have one small part where the seam is too short. I put some pellon on the back to keep it down. I hope that will work. I made the whole block 9.5 square so you could trim it down which ever direction you need it to be. I will add the cord and hopefully get it in the mail tomorrow.
Angie
jewah1976, 9/24/09

P.S.
I love telling you how good your blocks are and going on and on about
it because I can actually tell the truth.

shannon
:georgia: :rolf: :rolf: Replying to your other PM now
lizziebug, 9/24/09

The only block I've seen for Joyce is the heart and I'm not crazy about it.....

Not super crazy about it either. She's not super artistic, she doesn't have the best eye and her execution leaves a little to be desired.

I sure hope she's really mailed as she promised, but I haven't heard exactly.

She's been rather vague about it, hasn't she?

I'm just tired of sloppy work:

I should have warned you. I've seen everyone's work except for Angie & Mel's.

Angie remade the phone block. ugh... Her latest is supposed to be better, . . .

I haven't seen her work close up, but did see the picture you posted. It is possible to do nice, even hand work without it pulling so much.

Everyone has their own interpretations that I may not agree with (Why don't I ever have that problem with you and I?!), but I just can't abide by sloppiness.

I know exactly what you mean. If you're going to do it, then you'd better do it right, otherwise it is a waste of time.

Jerri's book block is good even though I don't get it? (I know I'm too literal.) The hearts are okay if not sloppy. Her note said that she was "sad" that she didn't get to do more.

Jerri Lynn is a sloppy worker. I've seen her quilt blocks (Charlie's block for the SM quilt was only 5 1/4" -- I really had to fudge in the seam allowances to get it to work); I hope her costume work isn't as sloppy. And as for not getting more blocks, she never spoke up.

Cat's blocks were great. I touched up a seam on the hand block because her tension looked off and I was afraid the seam would come apart. (you know when the two threads don't get nested together and you can see the bobbin really loose on the back...)

I know what you mean about the tension. Glad her blocks were good. She does nice work, but sometimes her fabric choices aren't my favorite.
I just wish everyone paid such close attention to detail and sewed by example. . . . Practice on your own time and in your own quilt.

I wonder if it is a matter of talent, but I don't think so. Even those with less talent can be neat if they choose to.

This may be a "charity quilt", but it's not like we're giving it to some homeless person that will be dragging it through the mud or getting sick on it. We're auctioning it off and are trying to get the most for it. I don't want to be embarrassed.

I know what you mean.
You and Iris have been great. I know I've been whiney. I'm sure you both think I'm too harsh and critical.

I'm very critical too. I don't judge you.
You were so great with the first quilt. I don't know how you did it!

:lol: I just had to let a lot of things go. I was so disappointed with the shoddy work of it. I couldn't very well go and remake everything though (I did a few things :roll: , which was really stupid), so I just had to let it go. Too bad we can't say, "if your work sucks, you're out." :rolf:
Most of the flaws in the SM quilt are all tucked away on the inside. Some of the blocks are unfortunate, but I think that the good overshadows the bad. It is a fun quilt. I'm sure that your excellent quilting skills will camouflage any huge errors, and it will be amazing when finished.:hug: E
lizziebug, 9/24/09

RE: THE MEADOW BLOCK

What the French Toast!?!
When I saw the picture of the meadow block I was a little confused as to why Sam was lying on his side. Is the bottom section of the meadow too narrow, then, or is the top half too wide?
What can I do to help? I saw that the calendar blocks weren't finished, just layered on each other. What in the world does she expect -- a magic transformation in the mail?Tell me what you need and I can help.
E
lizziebug, 9/29/09

Well, for one thing, the paw needs to go up and down, but that is pretty obvious, right? Since she's already used a hodgepodge of fabric, just continue to make it fit in. I'm sorry. Do you want to send me the calendar for assembly, or the meadow for re-arranging? Either, both? :hug: E
lizziebug, 9/29/09

Hi, the quilt is going to be beautiful. You are doing a wonderful job. I can see that you needed my block larger than what was originally told me and now of course can understand that you needed to make it bigger. All is well...looks good and I know this is a lot of stress and work for you but you are doing very well with it all. Take care. WB[/quote]
meredemer, 9/30/09

Shannon, I like the direction you're going with the red squares. And WTFT was up with Joyce's meadow?! I agree with E the only thing to be done was take off the bottom part, flip it with paw up, and add some more creams to it to make it the right size. Was the top part even the right width? I don't envy you the hard work ahead, but I know you of all people are going to take this jumble and tame it into a work of art! Thanks for all your work and perseverance! I.
mama2cjmj, 9/30/09

.......Shannon, the quilt is looking great.
E
lizziebug, 10/3/09

Sorry about the meadow. You can still send it to me if you want. Since it is patchy and uses different browns in it, what if you put Jacob and Jared in the meadow with Sam, put them in a sort-of V formation? Just a suggestion. I don't remember Joyce's blocks being so bad for the SM quilt, except the squashed truck. But then I confused Jean's and Joyce's blocks in my head anyway. Sorry you got such trash.
........Elizabeth
lizziebug, 10/3/09

......
I couldn't see stitches on the picture, though it could be because I was distracted by the fact that the "dangerous" meadow looks like it could be housing gnomes, fairies, and smurfs! :rolf: Looks like something I would have done for a kids quilt!......

I.
mama2cjmj, 10/4/09

I wrote that at the beginning when at that point only my block had been messed with....it wasn't clear at that point that you would continue the course. In fact I don't think it was clear to the others either. I thought it was just my block so I was trying to get over it and give you the benefit of the doubt but you continued your course. My block was small potatos and no big deal compared to the other stuff. I was under the impression that this quilt was like the first where the sizes were set and we sent them in at the size that had been decided. You didn't stick with that and my block was just the beginning but I didn't know that at the time and neither did anyone else. I wrote that in good faith and with appreciation knowing you had a hard job. I wrote that trying to just move forward and thinking that it was just my block...but my block was the beginning for you to do what you wanted to do with the quilt. When I wrote that I was sincere in those words and then day by day I could see that you were continuing the course. It wasn't just my block it was the whole quilt. You have amazing talent and so it turned out wonderful but you hurt others in the process. Once that happened then it became a realization that mine was just the first, not just the only thing you wanted to change. Sorry you feel the way you do but you are the one who did this, not me. I was saying the right Christian words to you when it was just my block and an isolated thing but then it spiraled out of control and you kept on your course. And if I remembered you wrote on the thread after that you would pm the others as needed but you forgot that too. So yes, those words did mean something at the time because I was trying to repair my own hurt by being forgiving and supportive of you.
meredemer, 10/22/09

So while we're all pointing the finger at me in blame, including myself, please remember that this is what I was hearing up until the end. I knew people were probably going to be unhappy with some of the things. I made an apology to the group before I even got the group letter or knew what they were expecting an apology for.

I made decisions along the way. I made decisions at the very end like remaking the Meadow, Mended Heart, and La Tua Cantante that were really questionable. I only wanted to make this quilt the best ever--NOT MINE--and to not be embarrassed by some of the blocks. My issues for sure, but I'm being honest.
My "friends" and co-coordinators never really stepped in to reign me in and were "supportive" until the very end....until I mailed the quilt away. Everyone then rallied arround each other and ganged up on me. They decried my actions and the quilt, but are still willing to use it.
It will be argued, if but not for me and all that I did........
I'm still hoping that some type of compromise can be worked out as helped by Events by Alice, Twilight Moms, and Alex's Lemonade Stand.
I don't hold out much hope.
My last wish is that my blocks will be returned to me.
If not, I hope to be conspicuous in my absence. I do not want to be associated in any way with the Twilight Quilters Coven or to be credited for any of my work.

New Moon Quilt: Step 1 "Recipe for Disaster"

2010-11-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

Who's to say if I'll get kicked off of Twilight Moms or not. I've not flamed anyone and kept most of my communication in PMs and email.

I'm documenting the sequence of events for my own piece of mind and in case I need documentation for any further action. I have been researching work product and intellectual property, but I don't think I have much of a leg to stand on. As I didn't contract with TQC nor was I ever paid for my work, or ask to be, I would still think that the blocks belong to me in principle. If I had money for a lawyer, I would contact one I'm that invested in getting my blocks back.

I was naive to think that while Elizabeth, Iris, and I were talking behind the other members' backs about blocks, etc. they weren't doing the same thing to me. I was also stupid to become comfortable in the fact that people were complimenting my work to my face and not expressing their true feeling or asking me not to do what I was doing, but not to expect that when all was said and done with the quilt mailed that they would put put pen to paper and catalogue my misdeeds demanding an apology.

So here goes.....

[quote="mama2cjmj"]

How about we do our next group project we've hinted at before as an auction piece for the Utah New Moon premier? That's a way to contribute, get more "publicity" :lol: , and get another project going where some new members can participate.

Well, some of us have leftover blocks, so we could start with an inventory of those......
The options are a SM quilt look alike, a new design with with the leftover blocks, or a completely new design. Let's start the discusssion! (or do we need a poll? :rolf: )

Iris[/quote]

Twilight Moms, 7/23/09, p. 25

In reply to Iris, me:

[quote="shannon17"]
We absolutely need to have something in the works, including design by the first week of August in my opinion if it is to be done by October 1 to be quilted (allowing for a little bit of room for delay).

I would think that we might quickly ask for designs to be submitted asap in drawn or diagrammed form. We could pick by poll. The design could be used outright or expanded upon.

Take it and run with it gals!

S[/quote]

[quote="shannon17"]very rough draft of my New Moon Quilt idea.....
I can't get away from the medallion it seems.
I started off with this idea:
New Moon poster made by fan. [url=http://raithsenvyme.deviantart.com/art/New-Moon-Poster-116275575][color=#BF0000]HERE[/color][/url]
(Probably have to get permission to use idea?)
Embodies New Moon to me. Cliff, wolf, moon, Bella and Edward embracing. (New Moon--to be accurate, though, is tough because you essentially aren't supposed to be able to see the moon so use grey or even black shape on a very dark purple or blue to represent sky or don't bother so we can somehow get E & B superimposed on the moon. CALLING on IRIS for superb PHOTOSHOP skills like Jasper's Eyes...)
"New Moon" appliqued in center on cliff or right below?
New Moon Tulips (I know we don't all like them, BUT they are on the cover of the book...) Using would tie the book to the movie?
We like quotes so may be next? Embroidered or printed?
Four outside setting triangles....split story into 4 parts. Still possible to make blocks and set them into triangles or applique/piece entire scenes overlapping onto background triangle.
Outside border could be done of traditional blocks or even like a movie strip--I just wish we had more movie pics to feature.
S[/quote]

Shannon, Twilight Moms, 7/24/09, pg. 26

[quote="LizzieBug"][quote="shannon17"]I think everyone must be too quilted out for this project?[/quote]No, I'm just out of ideas. I like yours! I'm happy to follow along and help where ever needed. :D
[/quote]

Elizabeth, Twilight Moms, 7/26/09, p. 27

[quote="shannon17"]You made my day!
I'm a little hyper right now and gearing up for another meteoric rise of quilting frenzy unrivaled even by our last project.
I've replied by PMs, but this is my take.
I hate to [i]stick[/i] anyone with being Project Manager, but I've recognized by limitations in the interest of a successful project. It's not that I'm lazy--it's just a struggle. Very few of us could have managed such an industrious project as Stephenie's Quilt so efficiently and successfully.
I understand how stressful these projects are. They are such a huge commitment.
I'm totally on board, though.
Shannon[/quote]

Shannon, Twilight Moms, 7/27/09, p. 27

[quote="jewah1976"]Well, like I said, I am on board. I like the layout, I am just trying to picture how to layout different elements in a triangle shape instead of actual blocks. I may be hard to divide up those blocks amoung many quilters.
I would be willing to help with the lay out, however I know I cannot be trusted to do it alone. :oops: I have a job, a home business and 5 kids so, ya know....
I would also volunteer to do the peicing of the blocks together as well as the quilting and binding. If that helps.
Angie[/quote]

Angie, Twilight Moms, 7/28/09, p. 28

quote="shannon17"]We did the last quilt with like nine people last time and one of those was our quilter?
I'd be happy, too, to piece everything together.
Are we thinking of asking Vivian to quilt? When we get things finalized as far as size, we should estimate quilting cost so that we can be sure it is factored into our expenses.
I have another simpler layout that I have been thinking about. Although, I still think my original idea is possible. I'll see if I can find a better example or draft one of how the blocks would make up the triangles.
Angie, we're pretty visual. Can you draw up your layout and post in a reply?
Thanks,
Shannon[/quote]

Shannon, Twilight Moms, 7/28/09, p. 28

[quote="LizzieBug"]Shannon, I love your medallion lay-out. Setting the pieces into triangles is not that big of a deal. I love the medallion layout in general :D . I love Iris' design as well. The background is amazing. Is it possible to print on organdy (or is is organza?). That would be an excellent way to do Edward's face in the corner, with the New Moon.
Simple is good too. We could print on fabric and put it in the center squares of the first quilt you showed.
I just want to be certain about the purpose of the New Moon quilt. Are we planning to sell it and donate the money to charity?

.[/quote]

Elizabeth, Twilight Moms, 7/28/09, p. 28

The discussion continued. Iris discussed her ideas for a layout (woven fabric idea, but no one latched on to that.) We continued to discuss a medallion-style quilt but people didn't seem to be able to grasp making individual blocks and then someone setting them in the surrounding triangles. I found the raithsenvyme's fan poster, received permission to use it, and made it in paper. I had finalized my trip to Utah to meet with Elizabeth and Iris to see Stephenie's quilt. Melly had posted some drawings of a couple of blocks. Other people, began bouncing ideas for blocks around.

[quote="mama2cjmj"][quote="shannon17"]Are we sold on the center? I'd hate to disappoint raithsenvyme now that I've got her permission.
:oops:
Shannon[/quote]
[color=#4000FF]I love the center. I think it would be great! Applique is probably best way to go on it. I can see a dark purple/blue sky with a black full moon superimosed with the image of E & B which is printed on that printable organza (we'll need a high resolution image). That will make the full moon look slightly grayish anyway.
What size are you thinking of doing the quilt?
Iris[/color][/quote]
Iris, Twilight Moms, 7/30/09, p. 31

[quote="jewah1976"]S-
I know how it is when you kids/house drain all of your creativity and you feel like what you made is not what you 'see in your head' but when you have all of that going on, what is 'in your head' is muddled anyway. Personally, I LOVE what you printed. I agree that the muted colors lend to the drama of the book. I mean really, I am not a cryer at all and NM made me baul like a baby. So I think that showing B&E in the muted sort of overcast tones is perfect for this book. I think the other blocks outside should have the normal colors to them but the center works! If we print the image of them on the moon and then applique the rest, it will be great! You rock sister!!!! ^:)^
Angie[/quote]
Angie, Twilight Moms, 7/31/09, p. 32

[quote="shannon17"]Thanks!
I think I need to just rework the fabrics and follow previously discussed fabric usage "rules". (I like batiks, but I think I have too many competing with each other in the block. The patterns and textures are too similar.)
I need to get over my fear of piecing the block. I'm afraid of the applique. I guess, if truth be known, I'm afraid of the entire project....
Shannon[/quote]
Shannon, Twilight Moms, 7/31/09, p. 33

I also talked about a different layout to simplify and make it easier for different sized blocks. I made the New Moon block in fabric so I could take it to Utah.

[quote="shannon17"][quote="jewah1976"][quote="shannon17"]
So, are you going to quilt for us?
Shannon[/quote]
Shannon - I would be so excited to quilt this quilt! I thought we already had someone in the group to do it. I don't mind doing all of the finishing.
I have been thinking about the 'vote' block...what if we did a long table? Since they had a 'family meeting' at the table...
Also, should we use a section of blocks to make the cliff diving scene? I think that is an neccessary element for sure and i don't know that we can get the whole thing in one block and do it justice.Angie[/quote]
I think we should do whatever we want to do and make it work! Even if we stray from the layout....
As I admitted above, my execution of ideas isn't the best. I'm really excited about quilting, but I lack the ability to step out of the box and piece things. Too scared most of the time. You should see my design notebook. I poured through New Moon yesterday and wrote down all the blocks I would make (like I did with Twilight and probably do for the rest of the books.) When I finished, I was like "Great, but now how am I going to make them?!"
S[/quote]
Shannon, Twilight Moms, 8/3/09, p. 34

[quote="shannon17"]Still trying to get it right....
]nothing is appliqued down yet.
I've decided to applique some trees on the bottom and onto the cliff area instead of using tree fabric. I think it needs something. Open to suggestions...
Wolf is still only paper--I think it will need to be another color besides black--a very dark brown to still look like at night?
The square will be 12" and set on-point. (Fabrics extend a lot more since nothing has been sewn down set on actual base fabric.)
I think it will need to be framed by a fabric or blocks if you all decide tulips need to be next.
Do we want to finalize plans and start a new official New Moon Quilt thread?
Shannon[/quote]
Shannon, Twilight Moms, 8/3/09

It was suggested that a new thread be started outside the TQC thread. We contined to discuss the quilt, though, on the TQC thread.

[quote="LizzieBug"]......
Shannon, we talked a little bit in PM's about me coordinating the New Moon quilt. I'm happy to do that and get the new thread started, but it seems like you've got quite a good momentum going. Would you like to coordinate?

Your ideas are superb, all of you! I'm not sure why I'm not coming up with any ideas on this one, because it is a FABULOUS project! I'm really excited about it and definitely want to help out in any and every way I can :D .

For the silver fabric on the gift, I have that sparkly Platinum Fairy Frost, but I also found some ironing board cover fabric. It is 100% cotton, and silver, though not shimmery/sparkly. I'm considering getting some for another project I have -- a needleturn applique' quilt called [url=http://beeinmybonnetcopatterns.blogspot.com/2009/02/cottage-gardens.html][color=#FF0000][b]Cottage Garden[/b][/color][/url] by Lori Holt. There are lots of silver garden tools :D . I have two of her other patterns, [url=http://beeinmybonnetcopatterns.blogspot.com/2009/02/womans-work_05.html][b][color=#FF0000]Woman's Work[/color][/b][/url] and [url=http://beeinmybonnetcopatterns.blogspot.com/2009/02/quilters-world.html][color=#FF0000][b]Quilter's Life[/b][/color][/url]. I love her work. I plan on taking these to work on at places where I have to sit and wait (kids lessons, etc.). I'm sure they'll take me forever to finish, but I think it will be worth it.[/quote]]
Elizabeth, Twilight Moms, 8/4/09, p.35

[quote="shannon17"][quote="LizzieBug"]

...

E, you over estimate my abilities to keep us going and organized. :crazy2: :rolf: I'm sorry you haven't been inspired by the project [i]even though it's a good one[/i]. :innocent: I fear we're quilted out after our last project. I'm hoping to finish up the model for the proposed center square before my trip to you and hope that we can finalize our plans for the quilt and get more people on board. We may decide to go in a totally different direction. If anyone has a better design or ideas, I'm very open to them. My quilting takes on a very literal translation and we may need to be more creative and/or group oriented.
For instance, may be we want to have a layout something like this:
[img]http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn51/frecklesquilts/dragonflyquilt.jpg[/img]
I thought of the same type of fabric for the present. I scanned something similar to the fairy frost for the model. The trueness of the fabric gets lost when it gets converted to .bmp to be compatible with EQ5.
I love the quilts you linked. The garden one sounds like it's right up your creative alley.
Shannon[/quote]
Shannon, Twilight Moms, 8/4/09, p. 35

I suggested a new layout on 8/4--the "dragonfly layout". (We discussed the birthday cake and Iris ended up incorporating my artificial flower idea--not original because the movie cake had flowers--into the final block.

[quote="mama2cjmj"][quote="shannon17"]For instance, may be we want to have a layout something like this:
[img]http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn51/frecklesquilts/dragonflyquilt.jpg[/img]
Shannon[/quote]
[color=#00BF00][size=150]MUST-HAVE-THIS-QUILT! [/size]:**: :**: :**: Where's this one from Shannon?! I wouldn't say I'm "into" dragonflies, as I don't collect them per say, but I do have a thing for them and have a variety of dragonfly fabrics! Plus this color scheme is simply yummy! Please tell me you have a pattern, have seen a pattern, or at least a larger size photo I can work off of!
See previous post about vampires and giving up sleep....
BTW, I like that layout too. For the NM quilt, I like the center medallion on point idea, but not sold on placing the elements inside triangles unless we do it as you said before[/color][quote="shannon17"]applique/piece entire scenes overlapping onto background triangle.[/quote] [color=#00BF00]If we're making individual pieced blocks, I just don't know how to nicely put them in the triangles. But setting the different scenes like this , not all lined up, would be a good alternative. Could even still have the center scene on point with the tulips framing it to make a square/rectangle, like the flowers they have on the bottom left.
Alright, I need a posting break now! :thud:[/color][/quote]
Iris Twilight Moms, 8/4/09, p. 36

[quote="shannon17"][quote="mama2cjmj"][quote="shannon17"]I think we should go with the above type of layout. I've been thinking about this since last week when I saw another example. Both examples were very interesting to me because they allowed for different sized blocks. I hope I can explain this correctly. People could make different sized blocks depending upon need and variety. For instance, some blocks could be fine as 4", but some may need to be 6" or 8" or even 12" square. A block might even need to be 4x6" and so on.
I was thinking the same thing that the block that I'm making would go in the corner like the block in the lower left.
The quilt is from a book I dug out of my stash called [url=http://www.amazon.com/Fabric-Art-Workshop-Exploring-Techniques/dp/158923328X][color=#BF0000]"Fabric Art Workshop" by Susan Stein[/color][/url]. It is a very cool book with tons of techniques for printing on fabric and manipulating fabric (like burning the edge of silk to use in applique). I will bring it with on the trip. The colors of the quilt reminded me so much of the warm/golden colors I've associated with what I've seen of the movie. I've always had a thing for dragonflies!!
My vote is that we go with this layout....
You know how much I love pp, but it would be nice to use different techniques like applique or embroidery in this quilt. I've even thought of redworked tulips, painted tulips, etc. or using fabrics other than cottons. (silver lame for presents) and artificial flowers on the cake. Still room for pp blocks and traditionally pieced blocks, too so as not to exclude.
My parrot tulips:
[img]http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn51/frecklesquilts/P6040026.jpg[/img]
Back from National Night Out. I'm so glad I didn't win the "free" security system.
I want to finish the block, but I didn't get the needles or the thread. I also enlarged the wolf too much so I've got to fiddle with that.
S[/quote]
Shannon, Twilight Moms, 8/4/09, p. 36

[quote="LizzieBug"]I hate to break up our conversation here, because the ideas are so terrific, but the [url=http://www.twilightmoms.net/viewtopic.php?f=315&t=30052&p=1510163#p1510163][color=#FF0000][b]New Moon Movie Premier Charity Quilt Thread[/b][/color][/url] is up :D .
Shannon, I like the new layout idea. You are the idea woman![/quote]
Elizabeth, Twilight Moms, 8/4/09, p. 37

to be continued......

New Moon Quilt: Entrenched

2010-11-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

Both sides are entrenched and it's not a comfortable place to be. I'm only speaking for myself, mind you. I am singed by the taint of embarrassment and heartsick in the face of everyone's behavior, including my own.

To continue to use my work when one is so offended by it is an offense in itself.

To decry my work and the quilt, but to still keep my blocks for personal and institutional gain is convoluted.

The quilt is not what they envisioned or wanted, but they will still use it for their purpose even though as a result of all the ill will I can't stand for it to be used when there are other options.

To point by point list all my wrongdoing, but to keep my blocks because at one point in time I volunteered them in the spirit and benevolence of giving is an interesting point of debate at best.

I never signed my name in blood, but I am feeling like I sold my soul to the devil when I agreed to participate.

New Moon Quilt: That Which Belongs to Me and Their's

2010-11-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

I designed the layout. (Yes, another member assisted. Her layout wasn't as consistent and included inconsistent sashing and squares. Block sizes weren't the same. Yes, I started with a layout from a book, but it changed significantly during the design process and assembly.) More later in a second entry of New Moon Quilt: Recipe for Disaster, Part II (I hesitate to post photos lest someone complain that the are their's.) I do need to note that after the tiff with the other member over design that I did miscalculate the measurements on the lower half of the quilt which played a part in me altering the layout and setting in the addition to the decision I made to decrease the the interior sashing from 3" to 2", the outside border from 3" to 4", and to alter the shape of the outside setting squares from squares to rectangles. (The quilt was to be around 45x60 and ended up finishing 56x68" I believe.)

All of the sashing fabric was purchased or supplied by me. Yes, we voted on the brown. I changed the setting squares from tan to red.

The blocks from L to R:

lanterns, cake, presents, hand, Shannon's Walk in the Woods
4 months, Shannon's Time Passes quote block, Shannon's Exposed Heart, sun

conversation hearts, Shannon's Motorcycles and Rabbit, Shannon's Hiking/Hospital quote block, Shannon's At the Movies, Shannon's Meadow with another member's paws and some of original block's fabric---remade, cliff diving

phone call, porsche, Shannon's Edward at Volterra, Volturi, Shannon's La Tua Cantante---remade and added to
flight home, vote, propsal heart/rose, Shannon's Treaty block, Shannon's Mended Heart block with another member's ribbon----remade, meteor block with added fabric to make it square, Shannon's attached meteor quote, Shannon's New Moon block

I hesitate to post photos....

What I did:

Lanterns:
I set them with sashing fabric. (I thought they were going to be pieced, but the maker decided to use cut-out fabric lanterns. I don't think they are to scale, but no one consulted me.)

Cake
I can't remember the exact size the block arrived to me. The block was well constructed, if not slightly wonky from the amount of machine applique. I think the quilter will be able to quilt out any fullness the block has after I squared it up to it's 14x16". I am concerned that because of this block that the quilt will never be able to be washed. I don't know if the flowers would survive.

**I will miss this member!! She is amazing and her work impeccable. She probably has no use for me. I'm sad that she helped in the campaign against me.

**By the way, I received this block with it's mate on 9/25, 10 days late of the 9/15 deadline.

Presents:
The presents were barely the right size and somewhat wonky and not square/rectangle on all edges. The maker was quite enraged that I altered her block by squaring up the block and adding fabric on all sides. I did not ask her first and she didn't like the block as it wasn't as she intended.

**I made this decision because I needed the block to finish 8x10" as forced by my tweaking of the layout to accomodate the error I made in the drafting the layout and my Walk in the Woods block.

Papercut:
I added black framing fabric to off-set the block and make it 8x8". I'm sure the maker is annoyed, but at the time she said she was okay with the addition.

**I can't remember when this block arrived, but I think it was late after the member was absent for awhile due to illness.

Walk in the Woods:
Pure selfishness..... I hated to cut this block down to be smaller. I had a vision and didn't want to change it. The block size also became necessary when I tweaked the layout to accomodate my math error in the lower.

**At the time, I thought people liked the block as they said so in thread.

4-months:
I assembled the 4-months block because it was sent to me unassembled without any real direction. I did NOT use the embroidered January block because it was awful and had the incorrect anniversary date. I cut the blocks down to different sizes, added backing fabric, and assembled them so that one could see that they could be flipped as months passing.

**I added the Time Passes quote to the side to make the block 6x12 (?) as needed for the tweaked setting.

**This block didn't arrive until 9/29 with the Meadow and Mended Heart

Bella's Exposed Heart:
This block wasn't in the original layout. I made it because I hated the Mended Heart block. (Poorly made and just WHAT?) Another selfish moment.....

The Sun:
This block was awesome!! I wasn't surprised and of all I will miss this member's work because it is amazing!! The person probably has no use for me, though. I'm sad that she helped/orchestrated in the campaign against me. The block arrived on 9/24, 9 days after the 9/15 deadline.

The Conversation Hearts:
I took them apart and off-set them, adding sashing fabric, to make them 4" wide. This isn't the member's fault, but I did this because of the change in sashing size and placement. Is this awful of me?

**I believe received after deadline.

The Motorcycles, Hiking/Hospital, At the Movies:
The sizes of these blocks changed a little and I added the Hiking/Hospital block without permission. I modified this area of the quilt, but didn't think to question it because it contained two of my blocks in a row. This was another place with extra inches to fill because of my tweaking of the layout above and below and the change in sashing size.

The Meadow:
I remade the meadow block because it was awful. The applique was poorly done and I feared it withstanding use. The fabric had tucks. The paw was sloppily attached at the bottom with not enough fabric on the side. (Both co-coordinators were stunned and made comments by PM, but I'm sure there is some excuse in play for them doing so.) I used some of the fabric from the original block.

In remaking this block, I did include another member's paws that were expected to be in the sashing in the original layout. The member is upset with me about this!

**I wish I could post a photo.

**This block is when I stopped caring what people thought and totally decided to just do it. Deep in my heart I knew that it would be the nail in my coffin.....

Cliff Diving:
I altered the size of this block a little and added the quote without permission. I wonder if the blue pen the member used to draw her embroidery will ever come out? I still don't understand the BLOB Cloud.

Phone Call:
The first block was awful. It was wonky. The embroidery cord was bunched and pulled--this side of the block literally pulled in and bowed from the embroidery. Most disturbing was that one of the seams was totally open and I was able to fit the entire length of my miniature scissors into the pocket that was made by this open seam. I believe the member discussed not really knowing how to paper piece, but thought it was appropriate to practice in this quilt.

#2
I took the phone block embroidery off after squaring the block to a smaller size--I didn't think the phone block needed so much background fabric and I needed to adjust the size for the layout. This was the maker's second attempt and came to me with an open seam that was "fixed" with fusible on the back. I attached ric rac for the cord instead creatively making use of this hole.

Porsche:
I changed the size of this block to fit the layout by adding the quote.

**I believe received beyond 9/15

Edward at Volterra:
I had to come up with something! I didn't ask permission.

Volturi:
Okay. The satin stitching was loose and didn't cover the edges. I squared up the block too much and had to add a little strip of closely matching clock tower fabric under the smoke.

La Tua Cantante:
**This member was one of the first to finish to her blocks. She got "screwed" in the entire confusion of the layout from the beginning design and disagreement between me and the other member.

She cut the block down and it ended up not being the right size even in the old setting. It was discussed from the very beginning that I would somehow add "la tua cantante" to the block and I even posted photos. The block's edges were raggedy and wonky. The applique was awful with loose edges and the paper was still inside the musical notes.

I DID REMAKE THIS BLOCK...SHAME ON ME!!!

Flight Home:
Through no fault of her own, I had to add to this block. I needed it to be 10x24, not 9x26 due to my mathematical error in drafting the layout. I didn't cut any trees but cut from the right side and added an 1" on the lower. I did my best to add in a way that isn't that noticeable with a rocky batik and a similar beach fabric. I'm sorry!!!!

**awesome block by maker of the Cake

Vote:
Still don't understand it, but well constructed.

The Proposal:
Awesome block by The Sun maker

The Treaty:
To fill space and because I thought it was an important part of the story that wasn't included in our list of blocks. I didn't ask for permission, but I did discuss adding it. No one protested at the time I mentioned it.

Mended Heart:
Poorly contructed and misunderstood. I tried to reframe the block with different fabric to square up, but I ripped the block by mistake.

I ended up remaking it at the very end because even then I new I was screwed in the group and that people were probably going to mad because of me remaking the Meadow.

Meteor:
Another attempt by the non-paper piecer to make a block. It was very wonky and not square! I added fabric to all sides--I purchased the same background fabric--and squared it up.

**I selfishly added the Meteor quote block because it's my favorite and another's members, too.

New Moon Block:
The block finished 16x18 and not the original size 17x17 or was it 18x18. I finally just gave in to the tulips. I messed them up. They are printed on fabric and then were surrounded by fabric. I ended up thread painting the trees down afterall. I wanted to remake the block, but by then it was 10/19 and I knew I had to mail.

YES, all skill levels were invited and allowed to participated. I was honestly stunned by the sloppiness of some blocks and that people didn't seem to realize even with numerous stunning examples that their blocks had issues as compared to the quality of other people's work. I was also stunned that people would allow this sloppiness to be included in such a special quilt. It's one thing for people to include sloppy work in their own quilts. I wonder if it's because on more than one occasion that I heard something to the effect that it's a "charity quilt." Is it their arrogance or just mine?

One more word about the quotes. We discussed these numerous times. I tried to come up with ideas to incorporate. I really felt that many people wanted quotes, but we never really decided on how to incorporate them. I really, really thought I was doing a good thing by adding them, but not tagging blocks.

I mailed about 10 days later than I thought I would be able to and kept the group informed about. If you will remember, I did not receive many blocks until about 10-14 days after the deadline. I was still expected to mail by 10/1 I guess, but I did keep people informed of my progress.

I did not talk for about these ten days and I know I worried people. The ten days were hell because by then I had made the last of my "decisions" and was worried that people would be upset.

I did post photos along the way with the exception of these last days and withheld info about the Meadow block until the very end.

People did see what I was doing.... I was also in contact with co-coordinators throughout until these last days.

If anyone, yeah...right, should want to see photos I can send them privately.

The other issue was my insistance that the quilt be mailed back to me for binding. People could not abide by that. Everything went to hell.... especially, when I asked for the quilt top to be returned to me so that I could get it quilted locally.

On another issue, to talk of trust. I thought that I was being trusted to make the best quilt I knew how. To make a quilt that was a good representation of New Moon and one that reflected well upon TQC. To make a quilt that would be auctioned for a lot of money. To make a quilt that was sound in construction.... creativity......

I continue to ask that my blocks be returned to me. They are my property and do not belong to TQC. The spirit and benevolence in which I gave them to be used in a group quilt no longer exists. I never asked to be paid for them. I never desired individual recognition for them other than as a member of the TQC and didn't ever care if I was mentioned by name. I believe that what is being taken from me is more than a quilt block, but my quilting soul.

my transgressions: New Moon Quilt

2010-11-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

Well, here's what you just apologized for. ;) I should have just sent it out instead of waiting for everyone to "approve". :wall: I hope you take the intent of this message as one of acceptance and healing....

It's understandable if we don't hear from you for a little while....but please don't shut me and Elizabeth out, ok?
Your friend, Iris

Shannon,

You haven’t been kicked off the island…..

We admire you for your creative input, your exacting skills, your enthusiasm and drive.

However, to say that many of us were hurt by your recent actions is an understatement: the lack of communication ahead of time; the changing of blocks; the addition of undiscussed blocks; and most importantly the insult to people who invested their time, money, and care into participating.
[quote="mama2cjmj"]In Utah I was so excited with her ideas for the quilt I offered to play with the layout, and she agreed. Then I worked on it, although I quickly wanted to give up, flaker that I am, and called her a couple of times to see if it was coming out acceptably. Not one hour after getting her final approval, I posted it then she hurriedly contradicted me publicly on our thread. I was SO embarrassed!

A little tweak here and there, fine. But I was astounded that she totally replaced Joyce's meadow without consulting! When I saw it my first thought was "tell me you asked first!" I thought she'd learned from the first tweak, Wanda's gifts! That was just insulting! [/quote]
[quote="Meredemer"]I have been thinking for a few weeks now that the quilt was turning into Shannon's quilt and I have been one that got feelings hurt. I am sorely disappointed in that the group trust was broken and there was a total disregard for the rest of us as Shannon feverishly worked to make it more hers than ours. [/quote]
[quote="jewah1976"] Anyway, I think that this was handled very wrong, a 'group project' is done by a 'group' and if you don't want it to be a group project, don't offer to head it up. The fact that she truly altered some people's blocks so much and without even consulting us about it first is inexcusable! [/quote]

[quote="LizzieBug"]I was looking at it and the wolf paws, which are 2" x 2 1/2" don't look like they'll fit in the sashing -- which is very disappointing. I designed them to go in the sashing.[/quote]
[quote="livethedream"] I have to tell you, when I saw the new 'dangerous meadow' block, I cried and blamed myself for not making the block 'good enough'.

Even though I was [u]finally[/u] really happy with how it turned out (I think the final count was 8 incarnations which is what took me so long), I think we can all relate to knowing what imperfections exist and hoping no one else notices. Looking at the final layout of the quilt, with the paws in the meadow, the block I sent would have been too busy, so she did need to have a new one. (I have asked her to send mine back. I worked really hard on it and will use it on something else.)

Of course, she truly should have consulted the group immediately with big changes such as new blocks. It really doesn't take much time to post and get a response from this group. And, honestly, to totally remake someone's block, not use what they made, and not tell them is inexcusable. It shows a total lack of respect. [/quote]
[quote="hardhatcat"] I was a bit put out by the extended silence from Shannon and then all of a sudden a lot of changes. I think she should have consulted the group before making any major changes and i was a little annoyed at the beginning with the confusion over the dimensions. [/quote]
[quote="Melly"] a group project should remain a group project. Someone who has such a huge responsibility as putting together the quilt should do it with a group opinion in mind. Of course, not everyone can get their way. Which is why I feel kinda sad, because it seems now that only one person got her way. we all invested time and money in this project. [/quote]
This is an equal opportunity quilting coven. As long as someone has been welcome into our group, and is willing to go along with rules we set, then we need to respect that person’s artistic creativity, their personal skills, and themselves as a person. All group projects need a majority consensus. When a coordinator is chosen and a layout is planned, everyone has a say in the final product. Any major changes have to be given over for input, discussion, and if needed voting.

Regardless of personal preferences, when a piece of work is turned in by an individual, it MUST be respected. Except perhaps for squaring off a block, if a minor change is needed, for example dealing with a sizing issue, that needs to be mentioned ahead of time to the individual out of respect and for input. If a major change is needed/desired, such as adding to the block, cutting off more than just for squaring, or replacing the block, the person who made the block MUST be contacted first. She deserves to be given the choice to a) give a go ahead, b) choose to remake it herself, or c) insist that it be included as is.

When we do group projects we need to be able to trust each other. And it is inexcusable to insult someone by changing their work without their consent! To be put in that situation, learning that your work was disregarded, after so much work and care went into it, is not how anyone would want to be treated.

We have come together to share our love of quilting and Twilight, to grow as quilters and as friends. Unanimously we agreed that we would like you to continue to be part of our little group. We would like to continue learning from you, as you learn from us, and have you share your work, both in group projects and in your own personal projects. Your quilting skills are amazing, your work is beautiful and having you choose to leave our group would be a big loss. We hope that you can get past your feelings enough to see that we really do value you.

But apologies are in order

.And we decided that in the interests of time Angie is going to finish the quilt and send it directly to Elizabeth.[/quote]
The discussion from my end went south from here to the point of me requesting that the Coven give me my blocks back.

The Coven refused.

I proposed another compromise where my blocks were returned, I donated the $150 proposed starting bid to ALS, and if they absolutely had to have a quilt and couldn't finish the NMQ without my blocks that Stephenie's Twilight Quilt be auctioned in it's stead.

This was rebuffed, also.

Twilight Moms and Events by Alice Utah New Moon Event refuses to intercede and are happy to accept the quilt for auction despite my opposition.

I find it ultimately the most interesting fact that after further discussion, my request for my blocks to be returned, and leaving the Coven that they still insist on keeping my 12 blocks--over half of the quilt.

If they are so hurt by what I did and think that I ruined the quilt, one would think that they would return my blocks. They don't like what I did, but they are perfectly okay with using my blocks and keeping the quilt even though it's didn't finished how it was supposed to and I changed so many of other people's blocks--which is an exaggeration.

I'm probably not accurately explaining my thoughts and position on the entire situation, but words fail me.....

I could give answer to everyone's charges. You may or may not believe my genuiness and I'd probably just sound like I was making excuses because the charges are accurate. Yes, I did most of that.

I still think that I should get my blocks back.

I may even beat a dead horse to get it all out. The truth be known....

Time Machine: What I Should Have Said......

2010-11-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

TQC: New Moon Charity Quilt?

S: Awesome! I've got an idea for a center/focus block.

TQC: Looks like Shannon's going to assemble....

May be: I don't really think I should. I've never successfully worked on a group project when I've been in charge. I know I'll just want to remake some blocks and I'll miss the deadline. These things are the least of my worries.

Best:

S: You guys go for it. I'm going to sit this one out. I'll support you gals, though.

TCQ: Quilt Layout?

I: Do you need any help? I'll take it home and work on it?

S: Sure..... Uh,...... it looks..... okay. Ugh...this IS what we're going to do.

Maybe: No, that's okay. I've got this one.

Best: I think you should design the layout. You're much better at this kind of thing. You could work from my idea, though. I hope it works out, but I won't be upset if it doesn't. Go for it!

TCQ: Did you mess with the Presents Block?

S: Yes. Whay are you going to do about it?

May be: Yes. I screwed up the dimensions of the layout when I drafted it in EQ5 and I want my Walk in the Woods block to be 8x6.

Best: Yes. I'm not any good at this. Elizabeth or Iris, could you take over before I really mess things up?

TCQ: Hmmm..... those blocks need some work. Do you want to send them to me and I'll assemble them?

S: No....I've got it.

May be: J, I'm having trouble with your blocks. What did you want me to do with them? Do you mind if I send them to Elizabeth or what would you suggest?

Elizabeth, I'm really screwing this up. Can you take over?

Best: We'll make it work.

TQC: We need your apology.

S: #%$*

Best: I'm SO sorry. Can we even still use the quilt?

I can't go back in time. The above is just SOME of the examples of how bad I messed up. I can't pick a situation during the whole process that I didn't do or say the wrong thing.

New Moon Quilt: Transparency

2010-11-23T13:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to get my side of the story out there.....

I've been as transparent as possible in all that has occurred with the New Moon Quilt from its inception to it's mailing. It has never been my intention to embarrass anyone. I did want to get even the behind the scenes chit chat out there because there have been so many things called into quesiton.

I know that the entire situation reflects extremely poorly on me as a human being and a quilter. I maintain that the situation reflects poorly on the Twilight Quilters Coven, too--at least the co-leads and those that may lust after that honor since I've left. (Please read my last post.) I was right there in the middle of it all.

Twilight Moms, Events by Alice, and Alex's Lemondade Stand were caught in the crossfire. (I'm sure they're all thinking about what steps to take to address any future situations like securing releases, working with groups with legal standing, etc.)

I don't hold out much hope, but I'm not giving up my fight to get my blocks back.

I'm keep waiting for one brave person to speak up. Perhaps to say: Shannon, you weren't in this alone. You made questionable and wrong decisions, but I was right there with you....

I don't know if I would be ready to sing Kumbaya or to let bygones be bygones, but I would probably be able to move forward.

Everyone keeps marching on, though.

And, like I said, people are pretty entrenched and there is no backing down. They have to believe that I'm totally the bad guy, that I gave those blocks up and retained no rights to them, and that there is no compromise that would in any way involve me getting my blocks back because the quilt is promised for the Utah New Moon Event and tickets as payment or in appreciation are part of that deal. They must feel justified. There certainly will probably never be any admission that anyone other than me handled anything to do with this quilt in an inappropriate or ill-advised manner.

I'm just speculating....

I don't think anyone expected me to put up a fight.

An interested party did contact me about the situation, so may be they will be able to provide some advice or be a voice of reason.

New Moon Quilt: How Badly Do I Want My Blocks Back?

2010-11-23T13:16:00.000-07:00

Shannon,

We appreciate you removing your negative comments from the New Moon thread. However your counter-offer is unacceptable. This is not a negotiation. As you have destroyed Mel's and Joyce's blocks and in essence have destroyed their donations, we require you to make restitution. As you well know, the value of a hand pieced quilt block in terms of time and materials is well above what a person could be reasonably asked to pay for it. Therefore, we ask you write a letter of apology to both Joyce and Mel and to choose the best from among your stash 20 Fat Quarters for Joyce and 6 Fat Quarters for Mel. The letters and Fat Quarters are to be shipped directly to each (first class mail with delivery confirmation is acceptable). Additionally, the only items you need to return to Iris are the fabric she sent you for sashing and the money for your part of the hotel in Utah. These are to be returned directly to her. You do not need to return fabric to Elizabeth or Wanda. It was given in a swap and is not associated with the New Moon Quilt.

Please provide the Fed-Ex account number to Angie for the return of your blocks. Once you have removed all direct quotes of Twilight Quilter's Coven members from your blog as well as any negative statements about them, and Mel, Joyce and Iris have received the items you are to send them, you will be informed of the tracking number for the package containing your blocks.

Twilght Quilters Coven

What a WASTE!

2010-11-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

I received my blocks. I specifically asked that they not be shipped overnight service, but they were. The sender also required a direct signature and after missing FedEx twice because my house is on the route at 3:00, the time I have to get my kids form school, I had to go to FedEx to get the package.

I can't go back, and I can't move forward. I might as well take care of some loose ends.

Apologies and ransom were extracted from me and I complied in order to get my blocks back. (The first apology before I demanded my blocks back was given because I did feel badly. It is in my nature to try to appease people. I apologized because it was the PC thing to do.) I had to send a total of 26 FQs and two apologies. I had to repay another person in full for a hotel room for my trip to SLC in August--$81.00. (I had always intended to pay this person back in installments and even offered before totally losing it with the group despite the person telling me more than once "not to worry about it.") I've had two weeks to think about all this and I agree I needed to make some apologies, BUT the apologies I made were about the wrong things.

This has become quite the expensive little learning lesson. (Time and fabric in the quilt, 26 FQs, $81.00 for hotel room, $43.00 to ship quilt originally to quilter, $$$$ in shipping blocks back to me.) Expensive--only the actual money and not all the emotion, etc.....

1) I apologize for agreeing to be a part of a project that I knew I would have issues with and wasn't suited for.

2) I apologize for not reading through the requirements and expectations thouroughly so as to know what I was supposed to be agreeing to. (I probably wouldn't have agreed or would have rewritten them. Blame me lazy....)

2) I apologize for agreeing to help design and assemble the quilt when I knew that it would be next to impossible to stick to a layout I had issues with and people I had issues with.

3) I apologize for not keeping in touch with the group the last ten days I was finishing the quilt.

4) I apologize for being cowardly by not informing people that I had issues with their blocks and that I wouldn't be using them. (Yes, I only apologize for not informing people not that I wasn't going to use their blocks.)
I also was stupid to have shipped the quilt off to the quilter. I should have kept it, had it quilted locally, and then shipped it off. I would have then said "See Ya" to the group.

Call me what you want--quilt diva, quilt bully, quilt terrorist, bad person.... I was dishonest with the group by trying to be someone I was not. I always get into trouble when I try. I don't make any friends either way.

I am a good quilter. I have been quilting for over 12 years. I do know what is crap and what is good work. The blocks I had issues with were good as far as the idea, but they were poorly constructed to the point of embarrassment. I was under no obligation to include blocks that I didn't feel like belonged in the quilt.

I think these individuals were more selfish than I to insist that their work be included in this quilt. I think the people that sided with them, especially after what they communicated to me in private, are lying to themselves. It's easy to go with the crowd and to gang up on someone. I expected better.

I took control and the responsibility of the layout and assembly of this quilt--and I didn't hear or read anyone complaining to my face when I did so. The group expected everyone to be involved in the decisions affecting this quilt? This wasn't the model for this quilt. I made decisions throughout. Someone should have spoken up consistently. Yes, one person did in the beginning when I altered a block but everyone else was supportive after I explained. (The spin on this now is that I bullied this person into silence.) To wait until the very end after I shipped of the quilt, to decry the quilt and my work AND to demand an apology was shameful....

I'd rather not make friends and be true to myself then make friends and lose them by lying to myself and to them when the real me is eventually acknowledged when it suits a purpose.

What is the future of this quilt? I don't rightly know. I could remake the missing blocks and then the quilt would truly be mine as was suggested by my accusers. (Another quilt is being made by the group.) I could give the blocks away. I haven't really decided.

Done, but UGH!

2010-08-18T14:00:00.001-07:00

My own sour grapes, but I really, REALLY hate the tulips! I wish I had not forced them into the block. They're positioned the wrong way for one. I also messed up the block size in squaring it up so had to get stupid and add strips of fabric and not being brilliant in off-setting it. Duh!

The quilt was a bright spot in my day?

Thank goodness for the work FedEx account so I can mail. I'm that broke.

The other method to my madness? Delay, delay, delay and make the quilt more of my own than it should have been. Why? I know that I won't be able to go to see it in Utah so why not make it impossible to go by alienating as many people as I can? I certainly can't show my face now.

S and Z were sick today. I had to take them across town to my mom's. I used up a day's gas ration doing it. I think they'll be in school tomorrow?

It's a good thing I can stand to lose some because I'll be dieting until Thursday. The dogs eat better than I do.

Oh, woe, is, me....

Why do I even bother putting all that out there? Don't feel sorry for me--it's my own fault. Including it and reading it is like my own personal slap in the face. Pathetic. Wake UP, Shannon!!

New Moon Quilt: My Blocks

2010-08-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

New Moon Quilt: The Picture Story..The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of it All

2010-08-18T13:58:00.000-07:00

THE PHOTO OF THE DRAGONFLY QUILT THAT I SUGGESTED OUR NEW LAYOUT BE BASED ON IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE AND I CAN'T FIND THE BOOK THAT IT'S IN.

Call It Whatever You Want

2010-02-01T11:22:00.002-07:00

The strength, the willpower, idiocy.....

I'm not conceited enough, really, to think that this blog is the end all be all, but I didn't want it to just disappear off the face of the earth without a warning.

It will be around for about a week and then I'm deleting it.

Nicer Things Going on THERE

2010-01-26T18:39:00.002-07:00

not here, but THERE:

Shannon's Quilted Home

Don't go there unless you can help me stay positive... I also don't need Coven visitors: Stay Away!

I've also come up with the name of my new MAIN blog:

Quilting in the Extreme: Diary of a Manic Quilter

We're all still sick. M has contracted whatever Common Cold crud we've all got. It was just a matter of time. C's been home sick for two days. I was home for two days last week and sick through the weekend. It's Tuesday and I'm still congested and coughing. I could deal with the cough, but not the wetting of my pants everytime I do.

Day 2 of working full-time: Ugh!! My mom is picking up the kids, but they are on their own for 1.5 hours with C in charge. So far no good as someone has called me within a half hour of being home with some type of issue.

I've Not Lost it Totally...YET

2010-01-26T14:25:00.005-07:00

Look gals...

I'm just trying to find my way right now and I really, really have no where else to turn.

I want to be where no one knows my name. I need a fresh start. Think what you will: that I'm running away, that I should just stay put, yada yada yada I still want my friends, though!

I keep thinking that I'll wake up and it will all be a bad dream. These past 6-months have been utter hell.

I simply feel blogged down....I mean bogged down by all my baggage. And someone, somewhere is LTAO at this statement because I'm the one who keeps going down that road and knocking everyone over the head with all my issues and problems.

I know its more of a state of mind. I really think that a new place would be more than symbolic, but even if it was, that might be a good thing for me.

Don't Blink

2010-01-26T07:22:00.003-07:00

I can be reached at.....

frecklesquilts@yahoo.com

I'm still up and running at my other blog(s) at least for awhile.

This blog isn't for long. Good riddance to bad rubbish!

More Signs

2010-01-25T18:26:00.003-07:00

What do they say about unfinished business? I have a check list going for things I'm trying to get done. Delete the emails, give stuff away, make the phone calls...

I came across a couple of emails in my box and here's one:

Shannon,

I’m really not sure how to respond. I know you would like for everything to go back to the way it was, but that is not possible. You want everything swept under the rug, to be forgiven and forgotten. But that can only last until the next time someone rubs you the wrong way and it will be more of the same.

As for the present, you continue to see the situation as you want to see it; that we ganged up on you and were very unfair to you. But you make a pretty formidable gang yourself. The consequences of your actions are enormous. I’m not the only one who turned their life completely upside down to help fulfill your part of a commitment that you continue believe you had every right to renege upon. Turn the situation around. What if it had been one of us who refused to let our work be used in the quilt and you were forced to either show up empty handed to a commitment our group had made or fill in? I spent about 60 hours working on quilt blocks alone during the last two weeks. In addition, I spent time moderating between the group and you and drawing up and altering a new layout based on suggestions by the group. My personal project and family responsibilities were left by the wayside to meet an impossible deadline.

Your scant apologies have never been sincere; what you gave in the way of apologies were a justification of your actions and what you thought we wanted to hear to avoid a censure from us. You bounce between defiance and justification and sorrow for your loss, but you have never been truly sorry for how your actions affected others. I am not angry with you, nor do I harbor any ill will towards you. But I remember the nasty things you said to me at the beginning of the Stephenie Meyer quilt. And I remember the nasty things you said to Wanda when she said she felt badly that you had altered her block. My behavior towards you since the SM quilt has been tailored to suit your needs, to appease your temper and make you feel good about yourself. I quickly learned that disagreeing with you is of no use. I engaged in backbiting with you to soothe you and try to help you. But I made the wrong choice in doing so.

That being said, I don’t think you are a horrible person and I never have. I think you are a person who has struggles, just like the rest of us. The bad is blended in with the good in all of us. I always try to make allowances for personal beliefs, circumstances, opinions in hopes that others will make allowances for me. And I continue to do this for you, but things can’t go back to the way they were. You need to sort a few things out and it is my belief that you would benefit greatly from professional counseling. The difficulties you face are impossible to overcome without an outside moderating voice. But it is up to you to seek out the help you need. No one can solve your problems for you.

If my opinion of you matters at all, you are an excellent quilter and a good person. I enjoyed working with you and love your ideas. But my opinion shouldn’t matter. What matters are the choices you make from here.

Elizabeth

I think I'll hang onto it for awhile. I don't know why I can't bear to part with it...

A Sign of the Apocalypse

2010-01-25T16:00:00.002-07:00

I have 700 messages in my inbox dating back to 2007. I just deleted them all. I sure hope I don't need any of them....

I Might As Well Not Have a Stash

2010-01-25T15:24:00.003-07:00

I might as well not have a stash since I can never use mine. I brought up the tote of aquas, tourquoise, or whatever you want to call THAT shade of blue. I found nothing in there that I could use for the quilt I'm making for my room. How can that be?! One more reason not to quilt....

Michael Says....

2010-01-23T09:35:00.001-07:00

M says I'm being ridiculous and I am, but that's beside the point.

Life as I Knew it

2010-01-22T17:27:00.005-07:00

I've thought long and hard about writing an publishing this post. It's time. I'm tired of being a coward. I need to make one last entry in such a way that there is no return.

The moment that I have been anxiously awaiting has happened. I see it as an event of closure.

My life has become so distasteful that it bears no purpose in showing up here day in and day out bemoaning my life.

We all know that I've been such a liar claiming blamelessness, victimization, anger........... I never believed it.

It's hard to believe that it's been almost two years since I read Twilight and a little under a year since I co-opted my quilting into the Twilight world with the Twilight Mystery Quilt and then the Twilight Quilters Coven. I don't blame Twilight, because it could have been anything since it's happened before and I'm that kind of person. I'm tired of running away.

When one points to their greatest accomplishment of the day as just getting out of bed everyday, then what's the point?

Any glimmer of hope that I had has been snuffed out by the handling of the last details for this quilt.

Quilting used to be something I could be proud of, but it's not anymore. I have nothing.

Sick, But No TLC

2010-01-20T23:09:00.004-07:00

I'm sick, but still blogging and eating tamales. May be this is why no one is stopping what they're doing to take care of me? I really am sick!

I dragged myself off the couch to fix dinner and it was more than grill cheese and canned soup. HA! Chicken, microwave rice, and canned green beans. I was the one who had soup, but I was still hungry so I fixed a microwave tamale.

It's nice to know that my appetite is okay. I don't think I have the flu since I passed the tamale-test.

Alex had all the signs of holding again so M gave him an enema. I wonder if he'll ever figure it out?! I guess being sick has its advantages since I got out of that chore.

S and Z were home today, but I think they're well enough to go back to school. I hope the other half of the family avoids getting sick. I'll probably stay home tomorrow and I want the house to myself.

I won't even give odds that I'll still be expected to get up, fix lunches, and drive the crew to school....

Wanna See My Kitchen?

2010-01-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

Shannon's Quilted Home

Creature of Habit

2010-01-20T09:36:00.002-07:00

I am such a creature of habit. I take a lot of comfort in my routine.

Coffee in the morning--iced from McD's or a latte from Starbucks (a rare treat), check in at the blog and read up on all the ones that I follow, email, and then work.

I'm not feeling well this morning. S and Z are also sick with similar symptoms. I think we've only got colds, but being sick simply sucks when you can't stay home to get better.

I checked out daycare this morning for S and A through their school program. It's going to cost $32.00/day for the two of them for the time period of 3-6 p.m. which I won't totally need all that time. I don't know how much I want to research finding other options, though. I know I will be more comfortable having them in this type of setting instead of a private provider. M wasn't thrilled. We'll probably just about break even with me working more hours, but having to pay for the daycare. I don't know what to do about the kids' afternoon activities. C and Z will have to catch the bus to the high school and walk a couple of blocks home. I will want them to stick together in the afternoons because I don't trust Z--he's not a bad kid, but he really gets distracted a lot. The house could be burning down around him and he wouldn't notice until the flames were licking at his heels. The excitement C felt at my announcement of the possibility has certainly been tempered--she initially had $$$ signs in her eyes.

We've got to figure something out. I don't have a lot of choice unless I find another job....

Appointments

2010-01-19T21:07:00.003-07:00

I made two appointments today. One to the doctor and the other with the longarm quilter.

We'll see which one makes me feel better the most.

I'll have to wait awhile to learn the results of this experiment. The longarm appointment is this Saturday. The doctor appointment isn't until next month....

Is it wrong?

2010-01-19T12:58:00.001-07:00

Is it wrong to want to abandon a place and just have a fresh start?

Pros and Cons?

You Want Me to Do WHAT?!

2010-01-19T12:21:00.003-07:00

It's official:

I have to work full-time as soon as I can arrange after-school care for A and S. I'm not crazy about working full-time. Sure the extra money will be nice, but I don't really want to do it. I wasn't really given an option. Yes, I was asked if I could and would go full-time. If I said no......they would have found someone that could.

It Got Done!

2010-01-18T12:09:00.003-07:00

The kitchen got cleaned...mostly and we all survived the work and each other!

My stove has been delivered, but I'll have to wait to get home from work to see it. M came home from work to accept delivery. He says it looks like the same stove as our old one. I wouldn't know since he's the one that bought it and he might not know since he never used the old one. hahahahahaha

I'm so tired today from cleaning. My muscles and knees are sore form stretching, climbing, kneeling, and scrubbing. I'm out of shape to be sure, but I think my age also has something to do with it. My knees just can't take it anymore.

I still have more to do in there. I only cleaned inside a couple of cupboards and I didn't get as much organizing done as I wanted. I have one cupboard that desperately needs organization. I'm afraid to open it as when I do, water bottles and storage containers fall out on a regular basis.

I think everyone got pretty annoyed with me. They just wanted to clean enough, but I was in the mind to really clean. I wanted to take advantage of the fact that we were getting a new appliance to clean behind the stove, clean the baseboards, the walls, the floors.... You get the idea.

We made it through the weekend after our rough start. C wasn't very happy with Z. We all have a difficult time getting him to do his share and not to damage things. (I had him cleaning a wall before I ran out to the store and M came home to him scrubbing with a brush through the paint/plaster and drywall paper. Ugh!) I think we all have learned out lesson in the foolishness of letting things go to the point where things are almost uncleanable. I'll post pics of the kitchen and talk about my plans over at Shannon's Quilted Home sooner than later. (You know how bad it is when I can't bear to post before pictures. All you'll get this time are the Afters.) M says it's too bad we're not ready to paint since we went to all this work and he doesn't want the walls to get dirty again. My response: who says we're not ready?

I don't expect I'll be cleaning much this week except for some light housekeeping. My body needs time to recover. I may be even too taxed to quilt, well at least I won't want to be cutting any fabric. I'll have to work on a project that I can just sew on.

One Wall, One Room, One Block at a Time

2010-01-17T08:26:00.003-07:00

I know it read like I was ranting last post, and I probably was, but I'm not swayed from my goal in getting my house in shape. I can't be unrealistic in saying that the lack of help and commitment from other family members isn't going to wear me down or tick me off, though.

I'm doing all this because I want to. I want to live in a clean house. It isn't my for it to be, nor will it ever be, a showcase. I do feel like I'll be able to take some pleasure and satisfaction from better living conditions because of cleanliness and aesthetics.

Priorities and Perspective

2010-01-16T19:46:00.013-07:00

Judy at Patchwork Times is hosting her Quiltathon this weekend. I planned a Clean-a-thon instead. My kitchen became the focus. My idea was to get us all, even A, in there working as a family to clean, clean, clean..... I thought if we did this we could get it done in one day and that everyone would have an investment later in keeping it clean.

I heard this song today while driving in my car. I shouldn't have been in my car driving to a quilt store. I should have been home cleaning my kitchen. I was on the road because I was running away from home. I knew I would have to go home, but I needed to clear my head. The song got me thinking about M and me. I used to think it was M and me together as a team, but I know that's not the case nor was it probably ever. We have really different priorities and perspectives about our lives and they way we live.

One might think that I orchestrated a meltdown just to get out of cleaning and the thought did cross my mind while I was running away, but I really didn't....honest!

I woke up this morning bent out of shape--no not my mood, but my body. I hadn't slept well because of some dog bed hogs, a dog that kept whining because he was odd-dog-out, and I kept dreaming. (It was a horrible dream! I kept dreaming that I got into a horrible fight with my deceased step-brother.) I usually like Saturdays because it's the only day I lay claim to the shower first and take a long and hot one. I also usually sneak out and get a special coffee and something to eat by myself if I've got money.

I did so this morning under the pretense of getting some cleaning supplies. I hadn't cleaned in so long that we didn't really have any. I needed the serious stuff, like industrial strength Magic Erasers and a grout brush. (You know it's bad that you'd rather take your stove to the dump than have anyone see it even if it's to haul it away....)

I was out and about for about an hour and a half. (I drove all the way to Einstein bagels because I was really craving one, but it's not a quick trip.) I should have stayed out!

Everyone was still in their p.j.s when I got home at 10:30. No one had taken a shower. Cartoons were on. I was like, "You're kidding me!" Oh, and it's my fault because I didn't leave instructions for everyone: eat breakfast, get dressed, get going on chores, etc.

M had somewhat of an excuse. It appears that our P.C. is toast. He was trying to repair that, although in my opinion this shouldn't have been the priority. You see, the reason we NEEDED to clean the kitchen is because we are getting a new stove delivered on Monday since the oven stopped working totally about a week ago. M didn't want to try a repair so he bought a new stove last Sunday.

And there's the rub.....

We all have different priorities and perspectives. I'm the worst housekeeper, but in my maturity I know that there's some things you just gotta do. The kids want to have friends over, etc. but the house is such a mess all the time and I say no because I'm so embarrassed by the filth. I've just really let things go. I'm the type that says if I'm not going to get help or no one cares then why should I? I've experienced the irritation time and time again of cleaning to spotless and have someone not five minutes later come behind me and mess up what I've done and not even attempt to clean up their mess.

Keeping the house clean isn't ever going to be easy for a lot of reasons. We have six dogs. Can you imagine the dog hair? You don't want to because it will gross you out. They constantly track in dirt from the backyard from their area since it's just dirt and ..... They lay and sleep on everything, including my couch and my bed. I've tried to get through to M, who loves his dogs more than me sometimes, that since we've made the decision to have this many dogs we need to be extra vigilant in cleaning up after them. Yeah, right! We have six people living in this house. Now, I like the think that the girls are a little better in just being cleaner.....but they make as big a mess leaving hair in the sink, splatters on the mirror, and having a messy room. The boys just pee on the toilet and leave gobs of toothpaste in the sink for example.

No one believes in maintenance. If you make a mess, then clean up after yourself! I have to nag people about the simplest of things, like: washing out bowls after eating cereal, cleaning up milk drops on the table, throwing packaging away from microwave lunch items, putting their coats and clothes away, etc. I can't count on anyone to dust, vacuum, load the dishwasher, etc without a directive. Everyone likes to use the bathroom, but no one will clean it.

If I do get people to clean, then it's only to a point. To me, clean is the absence of dirt. To my family, they only usually put in enough time and effort to clean until it's less dirty. M is this way, too. (His latest is that he can't see the dirt as well because his eyes are old and he wears glasses. My thought: put them on when you're cleaning.) Their clean is good enough as far as they're concerned, especially when things are just going to get dirty again. I mean why make a bed when you're just going to mess it up when you have to sleep in it that night?

I spent a couple hours out. My plan was to go to a movie, but my closest theater didn't have any early shows. All the movies started at about 1:00. I went up to Harriet's Treadle Arts for awhile to kill time. I rarely venture up to that quilt shop because it's really a drive. I did go to the movies. I decided to see Daybreakers because it started at 1:15. I was disappointed in the movie. (All the world are vampires and humans are almost extinct. Ethan Hawke is a reluctant vampire hematologist who is working in Sam Neill's blood harvesting company to develop a synthetic blood substitute. He discovers a cure for vampirism which is really unbelievable and hokey even for vampirism myths......hey, I can stretch my imagination even with vampire mythology--Twilight-crazy, remember? )

I got back just in time for M to run C to WalMart to get a gift card for her friend's b'day party. He'd spent a better part of the day out, too, I learned. He's on call for two weeks and he was out solving someone else's home emergency situation. Yeah, I know. Hardly anything had gotten done. Lovely!

My temper tantrum made absolutely no impression...... They never do. I just end up feeling foolish and more mad at the people I share my living space with.

Piece by Number

2010-01-15T12:27:00.004-07:00

I love to paper piece.

I've had my eye on some patterns by Piece by Number and Paper Panache, mostly for the New Moon Quilt which seems to be constantly pushed aside by new projects and mental health issues. (Yes, I have a severe complex about this quilt. It's a bummer to desperately yearn for forgiveness, putting it mildly.)

Anywho....in my spending spree last week (another reason for my anxiety this week--one should never try to feel better by shopping or to fix their problems by spending money), I purchased some patterns from Piece by Number.

I haven't tried them, but they have been received in a .pdf download and I've printed them out.

I'm most eager to try Rosie's Rose.

So, I guess I can't necessarily give a recommendation but I wanted to share at least their idea. I can say that service was very prompt and the patterns look great on paper.

Thank You

2010-01-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

A special thank you to my friends for being there!

No one is more annoyed with me than myself. Remember that....

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2010-01-14T14:15:00.001-07:00

Blank

To Medicate or Not to Medicate

2010-01-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm struggling over this issue. I don't even know if it's an option for me since I've not been to the doctor in a very long time. I've had some great advice from a friend and I don't know what my hang-up is. I've had people say that they think I should be medicated, but I think they were being more spiteful and mean-spirited.

I've been trying to stay busy to take my mind off of things. I really think I have my tendency for hysterics more in check at least. If the kids bother me, for example, I simply take myself away and go to my room or go out. I'm trying to be more positive. I'm trying to be patient.

Yesterday was stressful at work having been gone on Monday. The stress there more than anything was the reason for the drowning post. There are so many things out of my control that I start getting twitchy. It doesn't help that I got word that I will have to be on a new pay schedule. We've also got other things going on that I can't discuss.

I've been writing about my issues here because it helps, but also because I've been trying to pinpoint why I seem to have flare-ups. I know I feel more anxiety at certain times of the month...., so I'm wondering if there is some type of hormone level instigator?

I know I need a check-up! Why is it so difficult for me to go to the doctor?!

In a Mood

2010-01-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

In a mood, but then again when am I not?!

Drowning....

2010-01-12T14:32:00.001-07:00

I hate to waste an entry on one tiny little update, but OH, WELL!

I'm drowning today.....

I can't muster much else to say.

S

From the Files of: Be Careful What You Wish For

2010-01-11T09:47:00.003-07:00

Be careful what you wish for...

After my weekend, I thought a lot about how much I missed my Friday days off and I wished I didn't have to work today. I wasn't serious about today. Mondays are the worst days to miss and I hate missing at all because I'm always fearful of losing my job.

I'm home sick today with Alex. He has a sore throat. He doesn't have any other symptoms: no fever, unchanged appetite, and unchanged activity level. My other option was taking him to my mom's and dad's, but I don't dare. My mom was sick with the flu until about 12 hours ago and I don't want him anywhere near that house.

I'm still trying to get him to go to school horrible mother that I am. I really am trying since he's bouncing around the house like nothing's wrong and trying to get me to let him play the Wii. I told him sick little boys should be in bed. I'm not even going to let him watch T.V. We'll see who caves first?!

And Before You Think: How Bad Could it Really BE?

2010-01-10T22:18:00.009-07:00

This is AFTER I spent the day in the boy's room. You can see the floor. I pulled out all their clothes, rewashed a bunch (still working on that step), went through them and gave a bunch away, in addition to all the other stuff I did in there. (See the totes? He dealt with those before he went to bed. He had everything stuffed in those from trash to clean and dirty socks. See below.)

It all started with a misplaced Alvin and the Chipmunks T-Shirt. The more I did, the angrier I got. Boys will be boys, but OMG! I couldn't believe the trash... I found mouse droppings for goodness sakes!! Is it ANY wonder?!

I've avoided their room on purpose. M is usually the one who handles them CLEANING up their room. He usually does so after he almost kills himself tripping over something putting A into bed every night (A has to fall asleep in our bed by himself, usually, and then M puts him to bed when he's ready to go to bed himself.) I discovered Z's way of cleaning today:

Put everything in a tote....trash, clean clothes, dirty clothes, books, old school work, EVERYTHING in a tote and then shove it under their bunk bed.

He still needs to clean this out:

This is the vent he peed down--according to his sister. Urban Legend? I think not from the way his room smells when the heat comes on. M says there is no way to clean it since the vent goes under the floor because of the way the addition was added to the house.

Nah, I have no reason to be upset or nearly insane.

I'm more than a little annoyed with M. I feel like he should have done a better job taking an interest in making sure the room was actually getting cleaned up and stuff just not being stashed in previous months instead of telling them to and just being happy to be able to see the floor.

It's My Own Fault

2010-01-10T08:46:00.002-07:00

Not an easy morning today....

Back to Sunday school and church this week. Unhappy kids because they'd rather still be in bed, etc. Me, counting to 10 so as not to have a meltdown. M sipping his coffee and trying to referee.

I avoid the boys' room because it does nothing but upset me. I had to go in there this morning to find A's new Alvin and the Chipmunks T-shirt as a last resort. OMG and on God's day!!! Clean clothes on the floor, the smell of pee, candy wrappers, coats on the floor, clothes escaping from their closet storage untits...

I couldn't take it! I ran from the room screaming. I know what I'll be doing today. I will be in there setting things right. Z is going to regret it because he's lost his IPod for awhile and I guess I'm going to have to treat him like a baby as far as holding his hand as he puts clothes away and having room checks morning and night.

Modern Siggy Swap and Other Quilt Updates

2010-01-09T22:06:00.006-07:00

I'm all blogged out tonight since I've been at the other two with updates on my day's doings.

I'd just like to say that this is the fabric I've chosen for the P.S. I Quilt's Modern Siggy Swap.

oh, why not continue as I'm on a roll....

I also got the backing fabric for M's Saratoga Lights Quilt. I got some scrumptious 108" dark blue fabric. I'm set to make an appointment Wednesday with the longarm quilter I thought to use if I had finished the quilt before Christmas. She is very reasonably priced. I got a postcard from my usual quilter for 10% off but this one is still better priced and uses the Statler. I'm going to try her out--she's got to be better than anything I could do!

I got enough batik pink FQs to start the New Moon roses. I also saw a very cool idea in a quilt magazine that I want to try for parrot tulips for this quilt or another one that just features them alone. Perhaps it's a good project to finally get my Twilight Quilter really up and running.

I also picked up some more green and red FQs for Piece and Goodwill. (Hey Buy 12 Get 1 Free and it helped me spend the last $40 against the $250 for my $25 reward gift certificate.)

I also got these:

I think I've finally sold M on the color palette. For more about this development: Shannon's Quilted Home

Plans are to stay home tomorrow since I'm out of money!

I Made it to Friday, But is it Over Yet?

2010-01-08T18:57:00.004-07:00

I made it to Friday. I woke up in a great mood because of A's success, it was a payday Friday, and I was looking forward to the weekend.

Truth be told, I didn't want to work today. It's not that I have anything against work, I just would have rather been doing something else. Two movies that I want to see came out today. Leap Year and Daybreakers. I would have liked to be home sewing, too, since my arm felt better.

I had to go to work, though, because it was payday...... My day zoomed by to a point. I was actually going to try to leave at 1:00, but I had too much work to do. I also got distracted around 12, because I got an alarming phone call.

I was concerned about A and his stool holding at the beginning of the week. He'd had issues the last part vacation with soiled pants two and three times a day. I mentioned possible issues to his teacher on Wednesday, planned an enema, and a doctor's appointment next week. (School started back on Tuesday.) The phone call today was from the visiting nurse practitioner. He has scheduled bathroom breaks at school where he has to go down to the nurse and at least sit on the toilet. (Seems harsh, but sometimes he won't even try voluntarily.) He's been compliant and even jovial about going until this week according to the nurse. He was defiant and angry this week. He had a large accident yesterday. She interrogated me as to whether or not there had been any significant changes at home or whether or not his behavior had changed.

First of all, I had to bite my tongue as to why I was only getting a phone call on Friday from her and not the school nurse when he first had issues. Second of all, it's hard for me to judge since he's always defiant about the toilet at home. I also continue to have concerns that while I understand that this is a complex issue complicated by the physical side-effects of his condition, I seriously doubt he will ever make measured or long-lasting improvement unless we figure out and address the psychology of it as it pertains specifically to my son and not what is the norm for other Encopretic children.

Ugh!

Other than the recurrence of holding, I thought he was actually doing well emotionally and behaviorally at home. He had a nice Christmas: "This was the best Christmas ever, mommy!" and "I love my toys!" We've not had any changes at home. I told her that I was totally surprised by this behavior at school and that I had no explanation for it. He's not expressed any issues he's having at school. We'd even discussed him finally committing to wearing underwear and as a reward for making that decision going to Build-a-Bear for a Star Wars-dressed bear. M even enrolled him in soccer.

I got so deflated after the phone call. I scheduled his doctor's appointment and then called the school nurse back. I requested that I be kept better informed in any manner they chose by phone call or email. I also requested some type of report to take to the doctor so I can give him the full picture.

I'm trying to stay positive and not become too discouraged. We still bought underwear today. He also wants an orange Nano I-Pod. I told him that would be his reward for wearing underwear and using the toilet all the time. I made sure he knew that he might sometimes have accidents, but that they were to be just that and that he had to stop using his underwear as the bathroom.

Poop, Poop, Poopity, Poop, Poop!

2010-01-07T21:19:00.003-07:00

Alexander pooped on the toilet tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry to be so graphic, but him doing so is MONUMENTAL.

You may find it hard to believe, but before tonight for a very long time I could neither confirm or deny that he's had a bowel movement into the toilet. He refuses to allow me in the bathroom or see before he flushes. He's said he done his duty before, but who really knew for sure?

He still has many issues, but this is a milestone. He did it into the toilet and he let his dad see. We had issues while he was on vacation and I suspected he was holding. We even had a date with the enema this weekend.

We got his report card today. He's still really behind. He's reading at a DRA 4 and he needs to be at a 16 in 5 months. Gulp!! We've tried so many things, but we've come to the conclusion that he's got to want to do it. Don't misunderstand, we still keep trying but it's better when A is present.

He wants to play soccer in the spring. M is going to sign him up. I'm happy he's showing an interest in something. It's most important that he have more social opportunities. I will just have to figure out how to be 2-3 places at once with the girls playing, too. I can only hope that practices and games will be staggered enough.

P.S. I Quilt Siggy Swap

2010-01-07T10:57:00.004-07:00

I haven't swapped in years because of obvious reasons that anyone who follows my blog will probably understand. It's not a problem of me following through with commitment! In fact, I'm usually too committed or should that be I SHOULD BE COMMITTED?! I used to belong to a group whose main purpose, in addition to the fellowship of quilting, was swapping quilt blocks.

Rachel at P.S. I Quilt is hosting a siggy swap. I've participated in a couple of siggy swaps and they are very rewarding. The blocks are usually pretty easy to make. It's interesting to get blocks from all over the country to include in a quilt.

Participation is limited at 100 people. She confirmed that I was in. I haven't picked out my modern fabric, but I'm going to try to get some this weekend.

***Edit: Rachel says it's full!!! She is so awesome..... Don't forget to check out her blog anyway!

Beauty and the Beastly Me

2010-01-06T22:34:00.003-07:00

Nothing says I love you like a 50-pair tub of earplugs....not kidding. Just when you think that the romance is gone in a marriage, your spouse proves he's listening and has your best interests at heart by buying you your heart's desire. Either that, or he figured into the equation: when I'm sleep deprived, I'm even more than a witch than usual. hahahahahaha

I'm laying in bed and I should be sleepy after my interrupted sleep last night. I can't get there so I'm blogging instead. I'm here a lot, but I'm owning up to my love of being here and writing. If I had to write, I couldn't. I'm buried under five blankets, none of them quilts for shame, so at least I'm warm. I also had some hot chocolate with whipped cream. (I should have included one more Happiness Is.... things as whipped cream since I love a little hot chocolate with my whipped cream). It's cold, cold, cold in Colorado tonight!

The other reason I'm up is because I had an idea for a story pop into my head. I love to think about my day, tomorrow, and brainstorm inspiration when I go to bed. My mind isn't quiet until I'm totally out and even then I seem to dream a lot. I sometimes have to get up and get pen and paper or the computer to jot down whatever. I did that this morning when I was thinking about the entry I want to write about the final chapter about Stephenie's Twilight Quilt. (can't promise it will be the last as it may have an epilogue like all of Stephenie's books...) I had to get up tonight to jot down my ideas of my Beauty and Beastly quilt story.

I've always loved fairy tales. It may be true what the say about them being bad influences since they raise expectations unrealistically for girls about life, love, and happiness. This may be true in my case..... I love happy endings: and they lived Happily Ever After. My story features a fictional me, a Beastly quilter, who is punished for her quilting narcisism to only make beastly quilts until someone saves me by loving one of the ugly quilts and accepting me for all my beastly quilting ways. Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite fairy tale.

Thank You, Costco!

2010-01-06T17:57:00.004-07:00

I love Costco because my husband loves to shop at Costco. He detests grocery shopping otherwise. Anything that gets me out of shopping and spending my money is a good thing. The only thing is that he doesn't always know his prices so he makes it a regular habit of calling me up while he's there to check. Another nice thing is that he buys stuff that I probably wouldn't because of prices or my inability to justify the purchase for another reason. I could go with him, but I get the impression he'd rather go by himself. I think he likes the hunt in the warehouse environment.

He's headed out tonight to shop. He probably should have gone last weekend, but he didn't for some reason. We're getting hit with some weather and I'd rather he stay home, but the dogs are totally out of food. Yuck....

I forced myself to cut my green squares and red strips for Piece and Goodwill. I wasn't in the mood and my hand, wrist, and arm were hurting. Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. I've been tired all day because I didn't have a good night's sleep. I ended up getting up about 3:45 and slept on the couch because M and one of the dogs was snoring. No end of nugdging worked and I gave up. I remembered to put earplugs on the shopping list. In addition to Costco, M has to go to Target or WalMart to get Z some gym shorts. He has gym as one of his electives this semester.
I probably won't sew anything because I'm just too cold, but I'm one step closer to making my three blocks.

Happiness Could Be.....

2010-01-06T12:07:00.003-07:00

Happiness could be, but is not restricted to, these things:

1) Quiet mornings with no screaming or fighting kids or yelling mothers

2) A friendly comment on one of my blogs

3) A McDs iced coffee or Starbucks in the morning

4) A good book

5) A beautiful quilt

6) A free lunch

7) A summer day

8) A good night's sleep without snoring husbands or dogs

Keeping up with the .....let's call them Jone-es

2010-01-05T13:00:00.002-07:00

Quilting shouldn't be about keeping up with the Jone-es, but sometimes it becomes that for me.

I can't stand it that I sometimes use my quilting to out-do other....people.

This habit is getting in the way of me completing an important quilt and keeping a promise. Help!!

Selfish?

2010-01-05T12:42:00.003-07:00

I'm philosophical today.

I sometimes think I'm selfish for wanting to give quilts as gifts. I think people might prefer something else? I think I get more out of making the quilt.

Are gifts about what a person wants to give?

As I sit here and think about my next entry over at Shannon's Christmas Follies, I wonder if I should give up the whole gifting of quilts idea for 2010.

Or, may be I should give people something else in addition?

Comfort Quilting

2010-01-05T11:54:00.002-07:00

I know I get stressed sometimes about my quilting, but I could never give it up.

Quilting is such a comfort to me. I wish I had more time to do it!

Bunny Hill Designs FREE 2010 BOM

2010-01-05T09:34:00.002-07:00

Not that I will get to it this year, but Bunny Hill Designs has released the first step in their 2010 BOM called Snowbound. Last year's was very cute and I'm sad I never got to it, but I saved all the patterns.

Bunny Hill Designs
2010 Snowbound BOM, first step, pdf

Thanks!

Happy New Year?

2010-01-04T21:31:00.002-07:00

I had a very interesting day at work today. It had nothing to do with the fact that I was buried in work having been off for two days because of the holidays. (I sometimes think that it's not worth it to take time off if you're twice as stressed the day you come back to work.) I would have liked to stay longer today to totally catch up since I wouldn't have normally had to rush home since the kids didn't have school, but S had an orthodontist appointment.

The excitement was because someone got arrested today and it wasn't.....me. The police showed up in the morning looking for the person, but he wasn't there. They returned in the afternoon as recommended and were disappointed again. They got their man before I left for the day and it almost made me late. As it was I left 15 minutes later than I wanted and, even then, I almost couldn't leave because the three police cars were blocking my parking lot entrance.

I have no fear for my life or feel like I'm in danger in anyway. The person is accused of a white collar crime and the opinion is that the accusation and charges have been trumped up. My boss is even going to help the person bond out. I hope it's all not true. The guy seems so nice!

S's appointment went well. She had to have impressions for her retainer. She's getting her RPE out since it did its job apparently in widening her palate. She's been quite the trooper during treatment and even earned Patient of the Month honors for October. She received her $15 gift card to the movies. I'm trying to talk her into taking me. Both C and her want to see Lovely Bones. C may be, but S no. It's PG-13 and the subject matter is entirely inappropriate for S's age. I don't know if I even want to see it.

M hasn't been feeling well since last night. I've never seen him so miserable. I was freaking out last night because he was overcome by a migraine after he coughed a few times. I was really worried he was going to stroke out or have an aneurysm. He went to work today. He came home still not feeling well and I'm still worried. I want him to go to the doctor! He managed to eat, but only wanted soup and grill cheese which I didn't mind since it's so easy to open a can of soup and fix the sandwich.

I sewed a little tonight. I pieced all the green rectangle units for the Piece and Goodwill Quilt. I ended up printing paper patterns from EQ for the units so I didn't have to use the Stitch and Flip method. I'm worried about the greens I'm using. Some of them may be a little to bright. I'm glad I'm only piecing three blocks a month since they seem like they're going to be time consuming. Next up: 4-Patches.

The kids go back to school tomorrow. I've kind of liked having them off--less running around for me. We will be experiencing the madness of the mornings again. I'm looking forward to Spring Break. I demanded everyone be in bed by 9. The girls complied, but I had trouble with the boys of course. A came back out at 9:15 to clean his soiled pants. I'm at my wit's end. I thought we were making progress, but he's had a rough week. I need to schedule another appointment for him. What am I going to do?!

My Quilted Home, New Post

2010-01-04T18:10:00.002-07:00

My Quilted Home

I've posted a slideshow for my room. It was the easiest room to feature. I'm still pretty embarrassed.

Twilight Quilter: I haven't Given Up...

2010-01-03T23:44:00.008-07:00

My photo editing skills are holding me back...

Twilight Quilter

I haven't given up on doing this. I'm pretty stubborn. However, I sometimes feel like I'm getting bored with it all.

I did pick out a bunch of pinks out of my stash for roses today. I also read New Moon from end to beginning for quotes and blocks. Tomorrow layout--I swear and actual sewing this week.

I hope you believe me! I've been so bad and wrapped up with everything else....

Goal: Guilt Free Quilting

2010-01-03T16:47:00.002-07:00

There is a method to my madness. I want to quilt guilt free. It's hard for me to sew without remorse when I look about my house and see all that needs to be done. I'm trying to get as much done while I still have a little bit of New Year mojo.

I've spent most of the day cleaning. I haven't even got to the soap and water stage and I'm frustrated. I can't get things done fast enough. I don't have enough storage options. No one else seems to care, but C. I get so tired of being a nag and having to tell everyone every little thing that needs to be done. I know, I know...the story of my life!

C is working on her room. I was right that she'd get her dad to do what she wanted. They went to WalMart this afternoon to get hangers and other stuff. He came home with a plastic roll-around bin to use as a nightstand. I could only sigh! It will be one more thing for him to pile stuff on because that's what he does. I can't even get into our, I mean his, walk-in closet. I stopped using it years ago. My stuff is piled on top of my dresser. hahahahahaha I don't have enough clothes anyway. My dresser has a bunch of junk in the drawers, including a whole drawer of socks that no one wears. Anytime I washed socks and couldn't match any, the singles went in the drawer. I think I'm going to wash them all one more time, try to match what I can, and then throw the rest away!

This afternoon I've been avoiding watching the Broncos. M still feels the need to come in every time the Broncos do something bad to inform me about it. He doesn't get it that I DON'T WANT TO KNOW.... if I wanted to watch the game, I'd be in there watching the game. I can't believe the season's all most over. I wish the Broncos had had a better year. There is something uplifting when your team is doing well.

Just Because Quilts

2010-01-03T08:55:00.002-07:00

I seemed to have struck a chord with my banana split walls. Thanks ladies!! I'll share a pic of M's and my attempt to audition paint later. Of course, there's a story to tell.

As I get ready to pull out my stock of UFOs today, I got to thinking as I normally do. Yes, I seem to take the philosophical route quite often.

I rarely make quilts without purpose or for a particular person. When I do they have a higher chance of not being finished. That's not to say that quilts that I make for people always end up finished, either. (i.e. New Moon Quilt for one.)

I keep thinking to myself that I need to just make a quilt for no apparent reason but to make one. I keep thinking of things to do as an exercises of change. Is this smart, though? I could be setting myself for more failure?

Sneaky

2010-01-02T16:29:00.003-07:00

I sneaked out and saw New Moon again. I am so taken with the movie. I don't feel the least bit guilty! I love Rob Pattinson as Edward in this movie. Oh, and how it ends!!! Taylor Lautner is SO good as Jacob. Any word on the DVD release?

I always have to find something to be annoyed about and I am annoyed about the $12 I spent off the gift card on popcorn and a drink. @%*&#*! I could have bought dinner out for that. I'm so irritated with myself. I don't know what I was thinking?! I should have ordered a small popcorn and a small drink since I wasn't sharing, but I went for the medium deal and it was $12. Why didn't I say oops and ask for them to make my popcorn smaller or just not buy it at all?! People change their minds all the time and oh, well. Not me, I feel like I ordered it and so I'm stuck with it.

I also went up to GAQF. I didn't have any money, but I was making the most of being out. I'm looking for some raspberry colored fabric for the Christmas quilt. I have a 100+ yards in my stash, but not the right shade of red/pink raspberry fabric. It's the story of my life! Yes, I have a problem....in more ways than one.

C is serious about getting her room done I see. While I was gone she finished boxing up her bookshelf. I'm proud of her motivation and I think she's going to be successful in getting her dad motivated, too. She has a way with getting him to do what she wants....I need to take lessons. She is such a flirt and a charmer. Boys, watch out!!! I brought home paint cards today for her room and mine. More on the Quilted Home by tomorrow.

As I sit here and talk about the samples I brought, M is not in agreement. Darn it! I want him to just give in to me.... About a year ago, we brought up paint again. I suggested greens and brown. I don't want to paint the walls brown, but he does. I keep suggesting we stick with the greens and use browns for accent in decorating. He's steadfast in painting one of the walls brown. He refuses to give in. THIS is why we haven't painted. The thing is I kind of know why he doesn't trust me. I insisted on yellow for our bedroom and we ended up with banana split colored walls. As with most things between us, this is about MORE than paint.....

Up and at 'Em

2010-01-02T08:05:00.005-07:00

Up early this morning, although I'd rather still be in bed. I tried to sleep through M and at least one of the dogs snoring in concert, but I gave up. In truth, if the snoring woke me up I was probably ready to get up.

I don't have well-thought out plan for the day. I've gone through a bunch of junk on the computer desk and thrown it away and I've got a load of towels in the washer. (No one will be taking a shower for awhile.) I'd like to make a run to Starbucks, but that would entail me going out into the cold. I need to go soon so that I can get one more Gingerbread Latte of the season.

The plan is for M to take the kids to see the Chipmunk movie. I'm not going to this one. I'm looking forward to some ME time. The boys were at each other's throats yesterday while M was out running errands and I was at my wit's end. They were asked to clean their room, but they fought more than anything. I was aggravated because they kept bringing dirty clothes out. I would ask, "Now is this all of your dirty clothes?!" and not five minutes later A would come out with another armful. grrrrrr

I took photos around my house for my Quilted Home blog. I'm debating whether or not to really share. I probably will since I'm committed to the project.

I did have a little of a meltdown yesterday over chores. I have such a hard time day in and day out living with people who don't care about living in such a mess. I can't make people care, though. M says he's with me, but I think only so far. He gets upset and talks to the kids only when he gets tired of hearing me *itch and not necessarily because he agrees with me or wants to help me get things done. I wish I were more perfect in my habits. My family uses me as an excuse a lot because I've got stuff out and I'm not a good housekeeper.

I think the only thing I can do is to try and get something done today. I'll try to be happy with that!

Piece and Goodwill

2010-01-01T19:09:00.002-07:00

I pulled and washed a bunch of green, red/pink, and white fabrics today from my stash for the Piece and Goodwill Quilt. I refuse to be deterred by the lack of enthusiasm for this quilt. I'm still holding out hope that I will be able to purchase some of the coordinating fabrics from the Winterscapes line to compliment those I pulled from my stash. I've been leery of asking M to do it for me since he took us out to dinner last night. If the fabric is still available when I get paid on Friday then it was meant to be, right?

The quilt is featured in the Nov/Dec issue of Quiltmaker in case anyone is interested. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the block is for public use as I have seen it featured any number of times at different quilt shops and different designers. For this reason, I don't feel uncomfortable drafting it myself in EQ and featuring it on my blog.

I'm making M his apple pie. I think it's going to be messy. I should have cooked the "syrup" mixture that gets poured on top of the crust a little longer like the last time I did by mistake. It was a little too runny and it went all over the place. The sad thing is that I did a better job with the lattice crust this time around. Oh, well. M won't care as long is it tastes good and I think it will since we sampled the syrup. It tasted yummy!

I timed the bakin of the pie well. The oven was busy so M is buying us pizza tonight instead of cooking Digiornos. It's a good thing we have a pizza connection at Dominos.

I'm Not Listening....La, La, La, La

2010-01-01T08:40:00.002-07:00

I woke up to feeling a fair amount of anxiety and depression this morning.

But, today of all days, I'm going to try very hard NOT to get caught in their nets.

Instead of laying there stewing, I hopped out of bed. I've got to decide what I want to do first.

20-10

2009-12-31T23:59:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year!

M took me and the boys to dinner after church. The girls are spending the night at friend's. The boys rang in the new year with us.

I'm looking forward to 20-10. If nothing else, 2009 is over!!

I'm turning 40 in February. Oh, joy.....

I wish everyone the best!!

A Christmas Quilt for us all!

2009-12-31T16:01:00.003-07:00

I've posted the details at Shannon's Christmas Follies.

Check it out!

My Quilted Home

2009-12-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

It's going to happen!

My Quilted Home

Vim and Vigor

2009-12-31T08:03:00.002-07:00

There are days when I wake up with energy and I can't wait to get a million things done. I feel like today is one of those days. It's 8 a.m. and I've already got a load of laundry in the washer.

The girls worked out their plans with my mom. S and I are going to meet her for lunch at Olive Garden. S has had a school reward coupon for months and my mom has been promising to take her to lunch. She will pick C up from the house after lunch and take her shopping for Christmas with S and I returning. C is going to spend the night at her friend's in my mom's neighborhood tonight.

M and I don't have any Eve plans. We've got church because Z is acolyting. I don't know if we would have gone otherwise.

The kids want to see the Chipmunk movie this weekend. I might beg off.

I'm broke again so I won't be going anywhere. I hope to get some sewing done or at least get organized. I'm in talks with a very reasonable Statler Stitcher longarmer so I may change my mind AGAIN about M's quilt. She only charges $.015/sq inch which is about half of what I've been paying the other quilter for the same edge-2-edge service. The quilt would cost about $100 to quilt (w/o batting) which is very good!

A New Year=A Fresh Start

2009-12-30T22:07:00.004-07:00

The new year is as good a time as any to get a fresh start.

M says our house was built in 1916. A small addition was supposedly added in 1920. We were lucky to get this house in the fall of 1995.

Our house is 800-850ish square feet, not including the basement which is unfinished with a crawl space. All the bedrooms are quite small. We only have one bathroom. The living room and dining area are one long room.

We've destroyed more than we've worked on. The dogs have chewed and scratched up so many things. We ripped up the carpets years ago and the wood floors are unfinished. The kids have written on and banged up the walls. We've only ever painted the three bedrooms.

We've replaced the dishwasher, the stove, and the refrigerator. We've had a futon, three couches, and two dining room tables. We replaced the windows. We've had blinds and I tried to have curtains.

I'm overwhelmed by the state of my house.

I've got to get going on fixing things up or I'll go crazy....

I know my house needs more than a quilt in every room to be right again. When I imagine my house, though, I see a quilt in every room and other homey decorative touches. I see wonderful colors on the walls. I've got to make it happen!

Stashbusting: How I'm Going to Get it DONE!

2009-12-30T14:01:00.002-07:00

I have a dirty little secret.....

I like to buy fabric. I don't buy as much anymore, but back in the day I bought a lot. I outright lied to myself by telling myself that I was buying it to sew with and not just to hoard.

The truth is I like to buy fabric just to buy it. Sometimes I can't bear to use it. I'm always searching for the perfect quilt to use the perfect fabric in.

I used to have twice as much a couple of years ago, but I donated a bunch and also sold more to support myself when I was out of work in 2008. I still cry at the prices I sold it at. I had some beautiful FQ sets that I practically gave away and I'm still sick about it.

The amount of fabric I have has become an albatross around my neck. I know I'll never use it all. I rarely use my stash. I can barely get to it in my basement. I usually just go out and buy new fabric for projects. Ugh!

I want to stashbust. I really do...honest!

Last year I even promised to make quilts for charity. I call them Opportunity Quilts. I made ONE. I'm reinvesting myself this year.

If anyone would like to join me, I'd love to send you some fabric. Let me know. (I'm serious!)

I've decided to make quilts for this organization:

Quilts for Kids

On the Hunt

2009-12-30T13:30:00.003-07:00

I don't much like shopping unless it's for quilting stuff.

I'm on the hunt for more Winterscapes fabric. I love using the Quiltshops search engine. I've found more on sale at a few shops in limited quantities. I'm going to try to talk M into getting it for me. You see, I have a special project in mind that I hope a couple people will join me for.

My quiet day turned into a noisy one. Boss #1 was hearing banging around finalizing the details of his latest deal. I can't keep up with the man. Boss #2 was in and out of the office. Oh, well!

I'm off tomorrow. I still haven't finalized my plans. I'd love to stay home....

My Next Plan of Attack

2009-12-29T21:32:00.002-07:00

Now that I have the Christmas blog up and running and I've gotten back to the New Moon Quilt, I must move on to my next venture.

I mentioned previously all the quilts I started and abandoned last couple of years. I'm sure the number is quite embarrassing. I don't even really know what it is, but I know it's high. In the next couple of days, I'm going down into the dungeon/basement to find them all.

I'm also doing research for my home improvement blog. I'm still annoyed that I can't find my Paint Shop Pro 7 installation disc. I never installed it on the PC years ago for some reason. I can find the books, but not the disc. It looks like I'm going to have to have my dad edit the photo for the special effect I want it to have for the background of my blog.

Tomorrow is the last day I will work this week. We've been slow, but no one has told me that I can't work so I've gone in. Boss #1 is taking the day off so I'll have our office to myself. I love quiet days.

My mom and I have discussed lunch plans with the girls on Thursday. I'd almost rather stay home. I'm thinking of suggesting that that day be the day she takes C for her Christmas shopping instead.

Staying busy is the best thing for me. Idleness is the devil's doorway into my life. If I stay busy enough, I don't have time to think about my life....

Social Networking

2009-12-29T09:46:00.003-07:00

Do you Twitter, Facebook, MySpace.....?

I used to. I was ON everywhere. I didn't have that many friends, but it was fun for awhile keeping up with updates and posting my own. Hey, anything to divert my attention from where it needed to be. Oh, and the games!

Twitter didn't hold my attention for long. I think I might have kept up if I'd been able to get updates on my phone or had a widget on my blog that updated per new entry.

I kind of miss being on Facebook. When I went through my tiff and upset recently, I went through and deleted everyone. I was so miserable and made it known, but for most it was business as usual. The only reason that I really need to be on now is to monitor C's account, but I don't even do that much.

I'm really not that much of a social networker. I think I'll just stick with my blogs.

Giddy with a Sense of Accomplishment

2009-12-28T21:25:00.003-07:00

I can't tell you how many internal convos I've had with myself the past couple of days debating how much time I wanted to spend figuring out how to jazz up my blogs with my own customized backgrounds, etc. (I'm still going to visit the library or bookstore soon to check out the blogging books.) I've spent hours the past couple of days Googling and experimenting.

Please excuse my giddiness! I still have a tight grip on humility, but I can't tell how pleased I am with myself. I figured out how to add a customized layout to my Christmas Follies blog. Woohoo!!!! It's so neat for me to experience success with something I had no confidence in believing I could do.

I may need to tweak a little more, but for now I'm happy!!

The background is actually an edited .jpeg filesquare of a fabric that I filched from an online quilt store. I got some of this fabric over the weekend because I love it so much. It IS a Christmas fabric even though the colors are a little non-traditional. I've found it on sale online and I'm hoping to get some more fabrics from the line while it's still available and from those stores that have it on sale. I need to find a pattern to use it in, though, to justify the purchase first. I got three yards of the featured fabric at GAQF at 50% off, but they only had the one color.

Please let me know what you think...

I hope to address my other blogs soon and get back to the New Moon Quilt. Now that I have a template and the saved links attending to the other blogs shouldn't take as long. As far as the New Moon Quilt, I've found some more patterns to use so I feel like I have a renewed interest in it. Thank you for your patience!

Christmas Blog

2009-12-28T14:32:00.001-07:00

I posted my first entry for my new Christmas blog.

I'm Tired of Being a Grinch

I'm going with an alternate color scheme.

Technical Difficulties

2009-12-28T08:50:00.004-07:00

Sorry for the technical difficulties!

I was up until 2 a.m. messing around with my blog and apparently I saved instead of just preview.

I was working on my laptop and that thing irks the heck out of me it's so slow and troublesome....

I'm off to work. I feel like I've been off for weeks instead of five days. I hope I'm not walking into a mess.

OOPS!

2009-12-27T21:22:00.004-07:00

Ready....1, 2, 3: everyone roll your eyes!

I did something today that I vowed I wasn't going to do again. I'm really upset with myself. I told myself I wasn't going to visit again, but I did. I told myself I had no need to, but I gave in. I hope to someday get over it all, especially since all I do is roll my own eyes with all the piece, love, and Twilight--gag me.

The other question I have is why do I feel the need to put the WOW in my blogs? I would love to just be happy with the basic template, but I just spent over two hours researching on how to change things up by editing code no less. The truth is I really would like to learn, but there has to be a better way. I'm going to look into getting a book or something.

Our fake tree is toast. At some point this season, the middle section of lights stopped working. The tree is one of those that has the lights attached or as part of the tree. M tried to figure the outage while the ornaments were still on it without success. I was really annoyed by this because it was just one more thing to bring me down this season.... C took the ornaments off for me today. He tried to figure out the problem before he put it away for the year. He spent a couple of hours checking every light, etc. He's concluded that one of the wires must be bad. So, we'll either have a new fake tree or go back to having a real one next year. We used the tree this year after a couple of years having a real one because we thought to use the money we would have spent on presents instead. (I could have blogged about this on the Christmas blog, but I didn't want to start out with a sad post about a dead Christmas tree. hahahahahaha)

C and I made a thumbtack run this evening. It really was only an excuse for her to go to McD's for an iced coffee and fries. She even offered to treat me, but my tummy protested so I abstained. We talked a little about her room. The girls' room like the rest of my house needs work. They are very cramped and, while I can't do anything about the size of their room, we could redo their closet with organization and get different spacesaving furniture that might alleviate the claustrophobia. Their room also needs a paint job. M says we don't have the money, but I say we could make it work on a budget. C expressed her frustration to me because M keeps telling her that she needs to get things cleaned up before we do anything in there and her point, which I wholeheartedly agree with, is that she's done all she can do and they need storage, etc.

This brings me to my frustration to our living conditions. M saw this house as our starter house. I also don't think he thought that four kids were in our future. Because of bad decisions, poor financial habits, and circumstances we are stuck in this house. We've never made it a point to complete any home improvements because of financial circumstances, disagreements, and our different goals. People, I've not had a shower wall for 10 years!!!!! M also works very hard during the day on other people's issues as a maintenance/building engineer so he avoids ours. I've never been handy, either. I could be, though. I used to love watching home improvement shows because I always got inspired and felt that I could do a lot of work around my house. I look around my house and just get depressed. (Yeah, like I need help being depressed!)

I'm tired of living this way. I'm putting my foot down. If he won't help me, I will do it myself. I will also call on my dad. Heck, he's retired and why shouldn't he help me?!

I might as well blog about this, too. Another goal I have for next year is to get my house into shape even if it's only getting a new coat of paint on the walls, but I hope to do more than that. I have distinct ideas about what I want to do and it includes having quilts in every room.

My Quilted Home

Christmas Follies

2009-12-27T17:09:00.002-07:00

I shouldn't complain because even bonus-less we had a pretty good Christmas. We also have our health. We had family near and dear.

I just know that I could enjoy myself more. I also know that I could be less of a grinch if I were more organized, decorated more, shopped earlier, donated more, and did more Christmas-y things for my kids and myself.

So...with that in mind....

I have vowed that Christmas 2010 is going to be at least better than this one. I'd love to have my friends with me as followers, contributors, or in any capacity.

One of the ways I stay motivated is to blog all about it. Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Blog All About It!

I will be ready for Christmas and take more joy from the holiday. I'd like to not see Christmas as something I need to weather and get through.

Shannon's Christmas Follies: Positively Christmas 2010

I will be ready for Christmas even if it takes me a year to do it!

Never Give Up...Never Surrender

2009-12-27T09:33:00.009-07:00

I finally got the kids back on the table to hold M's quilt yesterday. (Sorry M, but they HAD to be on the table. He had a cow. At least I wasn't the one on the table....)

It turns out that I had one of the rows flipped. I had no end of fun seam ripping the row out of the middle of the quilt, seam ripping the two end blocks including the one setting triangle, and then sewing it back together. (It was more difficult than all this including having to use a new triangle, but it's too difficult for me to put to words.) I breathed a sigh of relief when everything went back to together and my outside edges matched.

I must give credit where credit is due. Judy Laquidara at Patchwork Times posted her Saratoga Lights Quilt on her blog and I was instantly inspired. Her pattern for the quilt is here. I couldn't wait for her to post the pattern instructions so I drafted the quilt out using her photo the best I could. (I've never looked at her instructions and I probably won't because then I'll just have to say, "I wish I'd waited and used her pattern. My quilt would be so much better."). The border on my quilt is a little different. One of my favorite quilt books is Sally Schneider's Designing with Built-In Borders and I used one of the border blocks from this book in the quilt. I can't recommend the book enough. It's one of those quilting items in my collection that is invaluable. I think the blocks are very similar to the ones in Judy's quilt, but mine are a full block and make a built-in border and, of course, I didn't add the other borders like Judy's.

I used a combination of fabrics from my stash and new fabrics.

The brown floral and stripe are from the Metro Mirage line. The cream/rust floral is from the Old English Rose/Andover line. I will use the stripe for the binding.

I still haven't heard if M minds the floral fabric and I probably won't. He seems to like the quilt well enough. He wants me to quilt it and even though I'd love to have it longarmed, I'm going to give it a go.

Planning

2009-12-26T20:41:00.002-07:00

I've got so many ideas for what I want to do with projects and such. I'm trying to stay focused, but it's difficult for me. I want to stay excited, but not become overwhelmed. I usually jump headfirst into a project and worry about problems or things not fitting later.

I'm trying desperately to take things step by step. I've decided the first thing I need to do is get all my blogs set up. I could feature everything on this one, but I think I'd quickly lose it if I didn't separate them all. I'll continue to feature life and general quilting stuff here, but I'll have separate blogs for my Twilight stuff and all the other special projects I have in mind. (i.e. Dear Jane, Civil War Diary Quilt, and any other focused projects I attach myself to.)

I love the Internet. One can figure just about anything out. I've been wanting to figure out if it would possible to spice my own blog backgrounds. I experimented last night and I was amazed at what I could do.

That's the thing. I can get things done on my own, but I like to plead out and get people to help me or do FOR me instead.

I have a couple of ideas about why I'm this why. Ultimately, I'd rather just sew. I also find it hard to stick with stuff that I'm not outright enjoying because my time is so limited. I'm impatient, too. If something takes too long, I don't want to spend the time to learn, etc so I quit..... I also get bored easily.

I got nothing done today.... I told myself I was going to get up early and start my day right, but I slept in. M fixed breakfast--my house still smells like bacon.

We spent most of the day out. The kids' money was burning a whole in their pockets so we went to Walmart this morning and then on the way home form M's dad's. S found a couple more rooms for her dollhouse. Z bought a Wii game and more ITunes money. I didn't buy anything because I don't have any money. hahahahaha... It's all been spent on the kiddos for Christmas.

I'm almost decided that I will quilt M's quilt. I would love to send it out, but I really can't. I just love having quilts longarmed. I think the quilt would look absolutely beautiful with a special quilting treatment. I suppose my other option would be to save for a couple of months, but that's really not fair to M.

I'm taking S and her friend to the movies tomorrow. We got movie gift cards for Christmas so I'm using them. (I hope to have enough left over to go and see New Moon again. There's always something else to spend my money on so even though I've been itching to go I haven't.

Musical Chairs

2009-12-25T20:49:00.004-07:00

Nostalgia...

Where is this song on ITunes? It's one of my favorites! Why? The song reminds me very much of M and me when we first got together.

I told C that she could use some of my ITunes money, but I've almost got it all spent. BAD II may be next. I was crazy over them early in college. I even went to a concert.

a few songs I'm listening to today

Music still does my spirit good...

So, why on the blog again? I got back on tonight to do some work on the blogs and to research making my own backgrounds. I got distracted on purpose.

S is still playing with her dollhouse. And, to think I hesitated buying it. The others are enjoying Rock Band. C is being good and doing some chores--she must want something. hahahahaha

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T13:10:00.003-07:00

I'm supposed to be napping, but I'm blogging instead. I'm about to put the ham in. The oven is sill acting up so we'll see how it goes. I heard Panda Express is open so if something should happen we can always eat there.

The presents have been opened. We've gone to church. The kids are playing with stuff. They all seem to be happy...

I stayed up late and finished M's quilt top. No, I didn't get it quilted. He wants me to quilt it. I want to send it out. We'll see.

I'm soooooooo tired.

I, too, got some good stuff. Starbucks card, ITunes card, candles from Breaking the Mold, and sleep pants.

What I really wanted most isn't in my power.

I'm glad it's almost over. I'm sad that once again I didn't make the most of the season. Will I ever learn? Probably not and there's the rub. I continue to think about whether or not I should just work with what I have and the way I am or try to change my ways.

Merry Christmas everyone!!! Let's look forward to the new year...

Crying My Eyes Out

2009-12-24T08:55:00.002-07:00

I really need a design wall. If I had one, I don't think I'd make these mistakes.

I'm beside myself right now....

Racing

2009-12-23T22:44:00.004-07:00

I'm in manic mode. I find it hard not to be when I've got so many things going on and my brain is working double time trying to keep up.

I was up until after two last night sewing binding on the quilt that I was gifting to cousins in Massachusetts. I kept telling myself one more needle of thread and then it was done. I was helped by the fact that I found some good reruns on T.V. and I managed to cozy up enough on the couch. (I also cranked the heat. I had to play dumb today when M talked of waking up to the house at 75. Oops!) It's a crying shame that I didn't get the binding done before today since the quilt's been done for months and I machine sewed one side of the binding over a week ago. I mailed Priority, but the package won't get there until after Christmas. I just love extending people's Christmas.

I'm annoyed with myself that I didn't get a pic after I washed the quilt and before packing it. The quilt crinkled up nicely. I love Warm and Natural batting. I've posted pics before, but not with the binding and washed.

This is the quilt that I was going to donate to be auctioned or raffled off for the church youth group, but I was never able to get the director on board with the idea. The craft fair never really happened because of weather. I don't like to give quilts away when they're not wanted. I'm hoping that the quilt has found a good home and will be well-loved.

I was out and about again today. It snowed all day so I didn't go into work. I made my run to the LQS for my FQs and ended up getting some half price fabric for the back of M's quilt. I'm still torn about the whole quilting thing. I'd love to get it longarmed. I'm such a dolt, I don't think I got enough fabric for the backing. I purchased all that was on the bolt, but there was only 4 3/8 yards and need at least 5-6 yards I may need to piece it with some other fabric. The quilt top is 71x85ish. (I need to take a closer look at my edges tomorrow. I don't cut my setting triangles to size because I hate having to figure out the whole 7/8 ???? thing. I also wanted to have the blocks float a little so I left a 1/2" seam allowance. I trimmed the edges to the 1/2" and I'm hoping I wasn't too sloppy.)

I'd like to post a pic, but I'm trying to figure out the logistics of it. C and I are both the same height so that works out, but even if we stand on the couch the quilt drags. M won't let us stand on the table--he says it can't take the weight. GEE Thanks!!!! It's moments like that when I think to myself Stuff It and that's why you don't have one of my quilts. He's rarely supportive. (We'll do it tomorrow and have Z take the pic. HA!)

I'm going to sleep on the quilting thing. I've got a couple of coffee tumblers to work on. I need to get my dad's gift card. I also need to pick up around the house. My parents are coming over for dinner and church. The kids will probably open a present or two. My mom bought quite a few gifts that coordinate with ours so we don't want the to open those.

It's almost over....

Crunch TIme

2009-12-22T21:50:00.003-07:00

We are at crunch time, folks....

We're supposed to get snow tonight and through tomorrow. Boss #2 has told me that I don't need to work tomorrow if it's too bad. I need the time to sew, but I also need to work. I feel like a complete heel because I didn't realize that Boss #1 had included a bonus in my last check. The check was larger but I didn't recognize that it was because of a bonus. I knew I had worked more, but I should have realized the check was larger than that would account for. Duh!

I finished my afternoon by shopping for stocking stuffers. I got crazy and I'm regretting it now. I would give my kids the world, but in the end it's just stuff and I should try not to do so much when I really, really shouldn't. I still have to make my money last for two weeks and my budget took a big hit today.

I still need to shop for my family. I'm a complete slug and so I'm embarrassed to say that I'll probably go the gift card route. My mom and I talked about this. She is against giving money and gift cards, but in all honesty, my sis and bros would probably prefer them. She's very perturbed with C because she was adamant that she didn't want my mom shopping for her. My mom insists that she knows what people want and need....AND that since she is such a good shopper, her dollar goes further. I was noncommital during our discussion as usual. There's no sense in me arguing because my role is to be the supportive one for her.

I'm glad I delayed going to the quilt shop until tomorrow. I would have bought a whole yard of fabric just to be on the safe side to finish M's quilt, but I only need a FQ. I'm stopping for the night because I don't have the FQ, though. I could sew a couple more rows together, but I don't have it in me. I need to figure out the backing fabric and I have to get binding. I guess I've decided to quilt it then?!

I just broke up a fight between the girls about their T.V. and who gets control of it. S was right in the middle of her movie. C wanted to watch the teen mom show. Ugh...I hate it when they fight. I really only want peace and quiet and they all could kill each other without me blinking an eye as long as they would do it quietly.

Bah Humbug. I'm so over Christmas. Sorry folks.... Half of the lights are out on my Christmas tree. M tried to figure it out when he got home, but gave up pretty quick. I wonder how late he stayed up since he was crashed out on the couch by 9:00.

If I can get the girls to go to bed, it will be all about me for the rest of the night. I'll go to bed, though, since I'm tired and cold. Pooh...

A Year in Review: Do I Really Wanna?

2009-12-22T11:46:00.002-07:00

I'm planning on reviewing my year. I'm going to go back and read my posts for the whole year. I'm sure I'll be surprised to remember some things. I'm know I'll be very surprised to see how I really am and that I've always been this way.

That last sentence probably didn't make much sense, but I know exactly what I'm talking about....

I know I won't be surprised by the number of projects I abandoned in 2009. I hope to get back and finish some of them in 2010.

I treasure most the friends I made and....... kept. Elizabeth, Brenda, and Diane! Thank you for visiting. Sometimes it's just enough to know that one is not alone.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas, Twilighted

2009-12-22T09:55:00.002-07:00

SOME people are SO talented and SOME are NOT but think they are..... I'm still trying to decide which group I'm in, but it's hard not to categorize when I'm treated to work like this. WOW!!

From Danger Magnet and permission given to "share and enjoy".

Twas the night before Christmas in the house of Cullen,
All were quite busy, no one was sullen.
Emmet downed a pine with just one blow,
Which Alice had decorated so grand, don’t you know!
Only one stocking was hung up tonight,
For a child named Renesmee, who squealed with delight!
For this celebration was made for one cause;
The arrival of none other than Santa Claus.

Back at the cottage, with paper and bows, Bella wrapped presents for Nessie…with Rose.
Delighted, that now, they were sisters, so dear;
It’s amazing what happened in just one short year.
Charlie and Sue, engaged, now, to marry,
Were also quite busy, no time to tarry.
Charlie cursed quietly under his breath.
They still couldn’t leave. Where were Leah and Seth?
When, finally, Sue’s two kids did arrive,
With the car fully loaded, they pulled out of the drive.
It seemed kind of silly to leave break of dawn,
But he wouldn’t argue, no, not Charlie Swan.

Carlisle and Esme were cooking up stuff,
But with werewolves coming, would there be quite enough!
Folks soon would arrive, but one thing to do first;
Go on a hunt to make sure there’s no thirst.
Alice could see that they still had one hour,
Which was plenty of time for some deer to devour.

Edward drove up with wrapped presents galore,
Brought some in the house, then went back for more.
“This time,” he thought, “she’ll accept what I give…
She’s my Bella, my wife, for as long as we live.”
On the back porch, Nessie did what she oughta,
For the reindeer, she put a big bowl of water.
Next to the tree, on a cloth made of silk,
For Santa, some cookies and a tall glass of milk.

Candles were lit and the tables were set
For a Christmas morning none would forget.
The music was playing. There were lights on the trees.
The house would be found with the greatest of ease.
The guests were arriving. All Cullens were there
To greet their new friends and wish holiday cheer.
People were laughing and eating the food.
Even Leah was in a good mood.
If one looked at Jasper, they’d see a broad smile;
He’d keep Leah happy, at least for awhile!

Only one person seemed very sad.
Renesmee said, “Mama, I must have been bad.
Santa should be here, but where is his sled?
Has he gone to see other children instead?”
“Hey, Renesmee,” said Emmet, “what’s all that noise?
Could that be Santa Claus, bringing you toys?”
Nessie ran to the window. All talking did pause.
For there in the yard was dear old Santa Claus.
Instead of reindeer, eight wolves pulled the sled.
By a ninth wolf, in front, the others were led.
“It’s Rudolph, Mama!” and Bella smiled back.
For the wolf, with the red nose, was Jacob Black.
With tears in her eyes, she thought, “Oh, that boy!
He’d do just about anything to bring Nessie joy.”
Suddenly, Santa was gone…that was weird.
He was now in the house with red suit and beard.
His eyes, how they twinkled. He carried a sack.
If you looked very closely, you’d see Billy Black.
Then Paul and Embry and others were there.
Soon, Quil arrived, carrying Clare.

It was a time full of happiness…no one was sad.
A celebration that good triumphed bad.
A time to put old issues to rest,
As each saw the other for their very best.
Then, Carlisle and Billy looked very mysterious.
“We have something to say, and it’s really quite serious.
Loyalty proven…It wasn’t an act.
And the time is right for a brand new pact.
Quileutes and Cullens exist hand in hand,
Free to walk on the other’s land.
If ever we’re threatened, with death, by others,
We’ll all stand together…sisters and brothers.”

With emotion filled comments and tears in some eyes,
People were hugging and saying goodbyes.
Cars, loaded with gifts, food, and holiday cheer,
All promised to be on hand next year.
“Renesmee is snoring, so we’d better go;
But Carlisle and Esme, I want you to know
I love you so much.” Bella said, so sincere.
“Before we go, let me make this quite clear.
The decision to change was mine from the start,
No need for another…your son IS my heart.”

Hands clasped together, Bella and Ed
Carried Nessie home, and put her to bed
“She’s perfect,” he said, “but then, so are you.
Who would have guessed, after all I’ve been through,
That I would have love and a life filled with bliss.”
Then he hugged her and gave her the most tender kiss.
Of course, there was more…’twas a night full of passion.
But, I’ll tell you the rest in Stephenie fashion.
The love that they shared was honest and true.
Having said that, MERRY CHRISTMAS to you

Kicking Myself

2009-12-21T17:24:00.003-07:00

I've not had a brilliant day.

I've spent the past hour plus fixing my sewing mistake. I had TWO blocks positioned wrong in my quilt. I didn't notice until I posted the photo on my blog. Duh!!!! I thought I only had one block the wrong way, but I had two.... I had already sewn the rows together. grrrrr

I'm running out of gas on this quilt.

Design Wall Monday

2009-12-21T09:32:00.003-07:00

This is the quilt on my design wall. I'm not holding my breath that I will get it done in time for Christmas, but I'm trying really hard.

Do you see my mistake? I do and I'll have to fix it when I get home..... One of my blocks is turned the wrong way. Darn it!

The pattern is a modified version of Judy's Saratoga Lights found at Patchwork Times.

Michael's Quilt: Saratoga Lights

2009-12-20T22:56:00.004-07:00

I have an affliction. I can never work on the project I should be working on. It's not that this quilt doesn't need to be finished, but I have more pressing matters to attend to.

Chime in if you have a name for this affliction. I think it's more than procrastination at this point.

Some of the rows are sewed together. I think I have 6-8 border blocks to finish. They're almost finished as I only have to sew the three sections for each of the blocks together.

I would have loved ot get more done. I stopped for awhile to sew binding. I should have spent the day sewing binding.

UP: Two Thumbs Down

2009-12-20T19:59:00.003-07:00

My dad loves the movie UP. I never really knew what it was about exactly. I thought it was about an elderly gentleman who for some reason makes his house into a hot air balloon and a child somehow got caught unexpectedly on the porch of the house as it drifted away.

I rented it yesterday from Redbox along with Terminator: Salvation. I rented the movies because I didn't think there would be anything on T.V. I swore that I wouldn't let M make me watch one of the Santa Claus movies one more time this season. I kept telling him that I thought there was a football game on, but he said he couldn't find one. (I was annoyed today when I heard that the Saints and the Cowboys played. I also heard that it was a good game.....)

We were all a little dismayed by UP for one reason or another. I thought it was very sad and fairly violent towards the end. I mean, the bad guy shoots a shotgun at the kid. The story was just really strange to me. C cried with me. I'm disappointed.

M and I enjoyed Terminator. I get twitchy with movies that involve the whole time continuum idea, but I tried to not let this one bother me. I hope that one day the story is resolved and that the humans win. Do you think it will ever happen?

We had a busy day today. M and I are a little down because the Broncos lost against the lowly Raiders. I'm not fibbing when I say that I saw the loss coming before they even played. I spent the day watching football and sewing after church so the day hasn't been half bad.

I needed to get to the LQS for one more final yard of the border fabric for M's quilt. I didn't want to make the trek, though. I'm going to try to get there tomorrow.....maybe. I've got enough to do with everything else. If one more child tells me how many days before Christmas, they're going to get coal in their stocking.

I also need to pick up a I Love Lucy fabric FQ. I've decided to make L one of those Design-Your-Own Tumblers. I saw it awhile back at Starbucks and mine still has a couple left. I'm going to quilt some fabric and then use the tumbler insert pattern to cut it down. I'll include some of my coffee packets and/or get her a Starbucks g/c to go with it. Voila! Nothing like waiting until the last minute.

I think M finished most of the shopping yesterday. I've got stocking stuffers to buy on Wednesday. I always wait until the last minute for these. I vow to impress you all with how organized I'm going to be next year. No LIE!!! I'm going to be a changed woman.....

How to Get Out of Doing Something

2009-12-19T14:38:00.003-07:00

How did I get out of Christmas shopping today? I have a daughter that likes to shop and gets along famously with her dad. M didn't even blink when I suggested C go shopping with him instead of me. I think I even got him to brave the mall to return S's sweater. He's called me twice about stuff, but it's better than me having to be out.

The only thing I've had to put up with instead is watching some obnoxious cartoons with the boys. I'm happy to report that they gave T.V. up to play the Wii. I've been so focused sewing that I haven't got up to change the channel, though. I will next. Oh, the good old days of cartoons like Tom and Jerry.

I've made quite a bit of progress on the quilt. I'm at that crunch point. This is the stage that I usually abandon a quilt. It's taking everything I've got to stick with it.... I've alternated between sewing the rows I've made for the body of the quilt together with the border blocks that I'm piecing. I'm crying for a break, but I'm afraid to stop.

The only thing I'm thinking of doing is sneaking out to see New Moon for #3. I'm also thinking about going to Starbucks and hanging out for awhile to sew the binding on the other quilt I must finish by Monday. As it is, I'm thinking of sending it by FedEx. I'm all about bribing myself. I would have gone out already, but M has my cc for the sweater return.

One thing I did manage to get done is washing Z's sheets. He still wets the bed and I have a daily showdown with him getting him to wash his sheets. Another icky thing about my life is that my son would sleep in soiled sheets, and does, if I let him. Yuck! I can't understand it....we have NEVER held it against him that even at 11 he still wets. I held it against him that he won't wash his sheets unless I nag him to death.

With All the Other Crazies

2009-12-19T08:59:00.002-07:00

M and I will be running around with all the other shoppers trying to find last minute gifts. It's going to have to be on his dime mostly. We've got the bulk of the kids' lists to buy and stocking stuffers. I was out yesterday afternoon buying White Elephant-type gifts for C and Z's youth group party. I also had to return Sarah's damaged sweater. (She wore it once and it developed a hole. The new one is going back, too, because she turned her nose up at the replacement since it wasn't the same sweater as the original.) The traffic was bad then and I can imagine what it will be like today.

I finished cutting out the rest of the fabric for the setting blocks in M's quilt. I lost count, but I think it was close to 200 assorted squares and rectangles. I'm in agony typing. I wanted to get everything cut out so I could chain piece. No matter how much it bugs me not to piece each block and finish it before starting a new one, I am forcing myself to be efficient. I did piece the first corner block and the first side block to be sure I had the measurements right. I'm pretty sure I need to buy more fabric. I'm still at war with myself over whether or not to try to quilt it myself or take it to a longarmer after Christmas. It would be tacky to give him just the top, but he would probably understand knowing my proclivities. I'd like to prove to myself and to him that I can be better, though.

I hope to post a pic later. The quilt is turning out nice. It's debatable whether or not M will like the colors and the floral border fabric. Ugh!

Already Gone

2009-12-18T09:53:00.003-07:00

love, love, love this song

I even love the dance version, but I think the above is the better version because of the subject matter.

Song Lyrics | Kelly Clarkson lyrics

I've never been good about making lists or planning. I hate this. Not having better habits really handicaps me and interfers with me accomplishing anything. Why can't I simply make the %$#@ list? Is it the commitment factor--if I put it in writing then I have to do it? It's like these blogs and quilting projects I want to do. I would be so much better off if I would just take inventory of things and come up with a plan. Why, oh why can't I just do it?!

I'm at work and ....blogging. I walked in and was immediately smacked down with a problem. I laughed, though, because Boss #2 checked in on me. I told him just once I'd like to walk in, sit down, and not be hit with a problem. He asked me where else did I want to work? I think he was kidding. I couldn't even log into my software this morning because the passwords had been changed. (The accountant needed to log-in yesterday, had trouble, and so all the passwords got changed.) Nothing like starting your morning on the phone with tech-support.

Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer

2009-12-18T07:50:00.005-07:00

I don't want to go to work today, but I will... It's the weekend before my next payday and I still have money. How did that happen? I worked more last bi-week so I had more to start with. For this reason, it's hard not to go into work even though I could probably beg off because I know I'll miss out on the money.

The reason I don't want to go to work is because I've had nothing but problems with the shipping of product. I can't believe how unreliable transportation companies can be. It's so frustrating to have so little control after a product leaves our dock or after we place an order to be transported from another location to a customer. Ugh! I am so stressed out right now. Oh, the days when I was just a bookkeeper for this company.

M's Christmas party was an adventure last night. I vowed not to drink at all, even with dinner, and I didn't. (Last year I had a couple of glasses of white wine and they hit me like a ton of bricks. I got sick and couldn't even eat dinner.) We arrived ten minutes early and I wish we had arrived an hour late. The party was held in a private room of a restaurant. There was no room to move because of the size of the room and the number of tables. I got a soda to sip on. M and I were both hungry. I couldn't believe that no appetizers were served. Dinner service didn't start until almost 8:00. Dinner was good, but the portions were small.

I was on my best behavior. I hardly even made small talk. I was so happy that the seating chart was abandoned when word got out at my husband's company. It was the owner's idea to separate spouses for dinner, but allow them to sit together for desert. M said he's never seen a faster mutiny.

I enjoyed seeing M's coworkers. A lot of the same faces in other divisions, but I couldn't remember names. I know the engineers and assistants he works with so I had fun talking with them and their wives. I sometimes remember people from the stories M tells. There was a new assistant and I can't remember his name, but M kept saying he was the new guy that dropped the pager in the toliet the first week he worked and it had to be replaced. He'll probably always be known to me as the toliet-pager guy even though I know what his name is

We didn't stay long. Desert was awesome!! The cheesecake was the best I've had in a long time. I had to share because M and I always share. He got another desert, but didn't like it much so he ended up eating half of mine. I didn't reciprocate because I didn't much like his either.

Keeping it Together

2009-12-17T07:11:00.002-07:00

I'm borrowing a line from Bowfinger today.

Keep it together, keep it together, keep it together

M left early this morning to go into work for a couple of hours before he has to take Z to his doctor's appointment.

Today is the kids' last day before winter break.

M's Christmas party is tonight.

I got little done last night.

I can only do what I can do.

Houston, We Have a Problem! Sous-Quilter Need Apply

2009-12-16T13:36:00.002-07:00

My arm is killing me. I've taken four Advil and it hasn't touched the pain. Actually, it's not so much pain as it is an awareness of my arm and a burning sensation up to my elbow that makes me feel like I want to vomit.

Chalk it up to too much cutting, sewing, and computer work.

I don't know what I'm going to do except ice and rest, but I really can't afford to stop my activities.

I've often thought I need a Sous Quilter--you know like a Sous Chef. A person that does my cutting for me at least?

I think it's going to eventually come down to that I can quilt or work, but not both. And, if I do either, I won't be able to do as much....

Recycled

2009-12-16T12:33:00.007-07:00

I have a thing for quilting magazines. They are one of my guilty pleasures. Some days I feel guilty for buying so many because I know I'll never make any of the quilts. Other days I'm fine because I see the magazines' purposes as inspirational and entertaining.

I was at the grocery store yesterday buying cookies for A's scout cookie exchange. I was tempted to buy Oreos and stick them on a plate, but I opted for the refrigerated baking kind. Tollhouse has the precut Christmas cookies and I bought those so A could decorate them. I wish I had known that my oven would once again act up or I would have bought the Oreos. Santa: I need a new stove.....

I can't be in the grocery store without checking out the magazine section. Three new quilting magazines were out. I usually take the time to thumb through magazines before I buy, but I didn't and impulsively bought them all.

I was annoyed to see that the one McCall's magazine that I bought was full of recycled patterns from old issues. Darn it! I am going to take it back.....

I've noticed this a lot lately. Companies are now or may be have always made special issues with old patterns. I'm not faulting the magazine publishers for making these special additions, but it annoys me! I have a similar problem with some books. I have now taken to checking copyright before buying a paperback by a favorite author. More than once I have bought a book only to discover that it's a reissue with a different cover. I'll get to reading it and then realize that the story is very familiar. Sure enough, I'll have read it before years ago.

One of my favorite magazines is Quiltmaker. The new issue has got some cute quilts that I loved looking at and wishing that I had the time to make.

Ways to Complicate Your Life

2009-12-16T11:22:00.005-07:00

I'm a master at procrastination and any other way to complicate my life.

This is what I'm guilty of this week:

I started a new quilt for my husband. This doesn't sound like such a bad thing, but it's not the simplest of quilts. I used a picture to make it so I had to come up with the measurements on my own. I complicated the whole project by deciding I needed to make my own pieced border. I think I can get it done even though I'm going to be out and about for one activity a couple of times this week. (Last night I was at Skate City with the girls for a school fundraiser. I'll be at church tonight.) I'm nothing if not stubborn and I refuse to add a simple border to this quilt even if it will kill me.

I really should be working on finishing the binding on the quilt I was supposed to have mailed to cousins last week. I took it with me to the skating rink and worked on it, but only got half of a side done. If I were smart, I would have researched ways to attach the binding entirely by machine. Yeah..., but I refuse to since I'm a binding-by-hand-person even though it takes 10x as long and any handwork kills me.

We're finally going to get Z tested for asthma. He's had issues this week and missed school. He's had some difficulties when he's had colds and had a breathing treatment and some type of inhaler recently. I want to know once and for all if he needs to be on regular therapy. He says he feel like he can't get enough air. He forces breaths in, then starts coughing, gags, and vomits. He was sick from school the past two days. Getting a kid into the doctor with the holidays in play is difficult. Our doctor at the practice only works a couple of days a week now and so this makes it even more difficult. I also have been trying to avoid missing as much work, especially this week with one boss out of town and my new responsibilities and expectations. Alex shouldn't miss any more school, either. I had an appointment scheduled for A this week after work and , but the office changed it on me. I rescheduled, but forgot about tonight--we wouldn't go but Z is acolyting and M has a work meeting so I have to go. I rescheduled for this morning, but forgot that today was the day for A's field trip to his teacher's house for cookie making/Christmas party until last night when his teacher reminded me. I was supposed to call first thing this morning, but forgot until 10:21 to cancel his 10 a.m. appointment--when I thought to do it it was too early. OOPS! I don't know when I'll get him in now because the doctor isn't in next week. Z is scheduled tomorrow at 10:45 and I begged M to take him. I have to be at work to accept a full-truck load of product because there is no one else.

I am supposed to buy S's dollhouse. I haven't done it yet and my mom and sister keep bugging me about it. Last night, I told M that if they are so worried about it that they should just buy it. Guess what my mom called me about today? Yes. "I was talking to your sister and we decided to get the dollhouse today. You can pay us back. I was losing sleep over it." As if that wasn't a guilt trip?! I wasn't losing sleep, but now I'll be losing sleep over causing my mom to lose sleep.....

Let the madness END!!!!!

If Only I Were a Pirate

2009-12-15T11:23:00.002-07:00

I don't think anyone in my family listens to me unless I'm yelling at them. I know no one hears me the first time. I hate having to be a naggy witch all the time, but little gets done unless I repeat myself at least once. The boys in my family are the worst.

M is very involved with his Pirates of the Caribbean online game. He says it's a stress reliever for him and I believe it. We're both very stressed and it's hard to fault him seeking relief since I know how I feel, but he plays ALL THE TIME.

I got pretty annoyed this weekend because there were many times when I was talking to him, but I knew from his glazed eyes and lack of response that he wasn't really hearing me.

I can't tell you how many times him not listening to me has caused a problem in the past couple of days and THAT is in addition to the way I feel when I know someone can't be bothered to listen to me. He tried to tell me a couple of times that he forgot I told him something, but I know that the reason he didn't remember was because he never heard me to begin with.

Michael's Quilt

2009-12-14T17:13:00.004-07:00

This is the quilt I'm making for M. I have 12 more blocks to make and then I will figure out if I'm going to make the rest of the quilt like Judy's. I'm working without a pattern so I'm sure it's not exactly like the original. My blocks are 10".

Thanks Judy for inspiring me once again. The story behind her quilt and the fact that M has never received a quilt from me led me to making this quilt for him. Patchwork Times

Where is Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Quilt?

2009-12-14T10:41:00.013-07:00

The better question is: Where isn't it? It's certainly not with Stephenie Meyer.

The last I heard was that it hasn't even been mailed and won't be until after the holidays. I know where it is and I'm not implying that it's not safe.

It's just tacky. You make a quilt for someone, but you don't give it to them so can you share it with the rest of the world first.

So what's it to me? Well...... I feel like I'll finally have total peace when I hear that the quilt has made it to Stephenie.

I was knee deep in this whole situation during the summer and fall. I'm culpable. I don't know if the result would have been any different if I was still a member, especially since I agreed with entering the quilt into the festivals and displaying it in November.

The Coven made the quilt as a gift for Stephenie, but we got selfish about it having to enter it into quilt festivals and then months later displaying it at the Utah New Moon Event.

It's also one more example where people's lives continue to get in the way of meeting a deadline and how easy it is to make excuses and have them be accepted by the rest of group. They've got such a mutual love fest going on over there that no wrong can be done. (You continue to not mail the quilt because of the scrapbook not being finished and then mis-mailed?! I will not allow myself to be blamed for any delays to do with this. The person had months to finish it before October.)

It's been almost a month since the New Moon Event and now the quilt isn't going to be mailed until after the holidays. What will the next excuse be?

It may not seem like it, but I really have just about moved on. I rarely visit TMs anymore. I finally have allowed the hypocrisy of the whole situation sink in. They really do all deserve each other. You've got the Insufferable Know-It-All and the Apologist to direct traffic and everyone else playing their roles while they all pat themselves on the back with me being the bad memory and the person who shall not be named in polite conversation.

Shameless self-promotion, excuses, and poor judgement have interfered with the purpose of the project: to make a quilt in thanks for a beloved author in a personal way.

The Joy of Quilting

2009-12-14T00:35:00.008-07:00

I wonder if I'll ever be able to truly find the joy in quilting ever again?

I've spent the weekend sewing M's quilt. There's nothing like a must-do project and a challenge to really get me back in the game. I'm trying to find the joy, though, and that's still out of reach. I think I'll have to be satisfied with just the feeling of accomplishment.

I estimate that I'm about halfway done with the quilt top. I've got 18 blocks to go and then the outside border/setting blocks (....if I decide to go that route) to make.

Did you know that $10 will get you $30? I rushed out to the quilt store again this afternoon with A in tow. I actually went to three quilt stores. You're not surprised? I decided I needed a dark brown fabric for these last 20 blocks. I hit the closest store first, then west, and then back to GAQF. Browns are so hard to come by! While at GAQF I bought some heart fabric and a nice linen-print red. I haven't given up on making L her I Love Lucy quilt. I couldn't talk myself into buying the I Love Lucy fabric yesterday no matter how hard I tried--I even had it on the cutting table. It's just too creepy looking for me. I don't even have a plan for the quilt other than the famous heart, some heart fabric, some fabric with chocolates, and may be some pics printed on fabric. I think I just wanted to buy more fabric....

I was pretty quick at the store, but ended up staying an extra 15 minutes so A could play with the Legos. I brought him with me because he and his bro were fighting before I left and I was afraid they'd kill each other while I was gone. He's so funny: when I told him we were going to the quilt shop, he asked me if we were going to the store with the Legos or the puppets?

I fixed lasagna when I got home. Well, first, I had to fix spaghetti sauce. We ate at 7:30. SORRY family!!!!

I ended my evening finally watching Julia and Julia. It WAS a very cute movie. I need to search for my favortie line. It's the one about women not liking their friends. I can't watch it again, though, because it has to go back to Redbox. I know why I really liked the movie. The blogging. I felt a kinship with the main character and had so many a-ha moments when anything about blogging was mentioned. I also adore Amy Adams. I'm not a huge Meryl Streep fan, but OMG she was simply fab and SO believable as Julia Child. I would love to do a similar blog project. SO COOL!!!!

It's almost 1 a.m. here and I'm so tired. I can't believe I stayed up this late. My neck and shoulders are killing me. Sewing is worse than working out!

I wish I could share a pic of the quilt, but I don't have a design wall up and I didn't want to spread it out on my table because I'd have to clean it off. May be tomorrow?

New Moon Quilt

2009-12-12T23:22:00.006-07:00

I've not done anything more for the New Moon Quilt, but it's never far from my mind. I want to finish it. I'm just getting scared.

I'm pretty sure I'm going to make roses like these for the birthday block to use on the cake and other places.

Here's the link on how to make them.

Or, maybe I'll make ribbon roses:

Then, again, these are way cute.