tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24054850342211490442024-03-13T04:02:14.970-07:00Craft FarmMichaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-41112038376931177252011-01-03T13:24:00.000-08:002011-01-03T13:30:29.624-08:00Fresh start...It's a new year and pretty much a whole new life for me, so I decided why not to keep on this new theme. Craftfarm has been moved <a href="http://madeintheattic.blogspot.com">here</a>. <br />I look forward to share all of my catching up on the sewing front, experiments in the kitchen and happening in this 'new' life of mine. So, come on over and visit!Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-78560299188246773952010-04-29T06:44:00.000-07:002010-04-29T06:52:47.850-07:00Change...Just popping in to say that I am here and I am OK...<br />I will be back here soon, I hope... couple more months possibly..<br /><br />Right now, my life is changing in almost every possible aspect and I need to deal with that at the moment... <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S9mPAdGOgTI/AAAAAAAAA-E/lDuVkppdVsg/s1600/IMG_9356.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S9mPAdGOgTI/AAAAAAAAA-E/lDuVkppdVsg/s400/IMG_9356.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465556860764324146" /></a><br /><br />See you soon friends.. :)Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-41720709806310044532010-02-27T09:52:00.000-08:002010-02-27T21:18:57.139-08:00Random...I had quite a hectic week, but busy is good right now. <br />Here is an update on my vintage sheet quilt. It is waiting for me to finish it, but will need to be patient one more week.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfYlsePbI/AAAAAAAAA9s/-VAUfvO5Zyk/s1600-h/IMG_3283.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfYlsePbI/AAAAAAAAA9s/-VAUfvO5Zyk/s400/IMG_3283.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442986500694097330" /></a><br /><br />In a mean time, I am taking photos of birds around the house. There is inspiration for a quilt coming up, but for now I am just playing with camera.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfZqXgBqI/AAAAAAAAA98/NCl0xjlO21k/s1600-h/Junco.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfZqXgBqI/AAAAAAAAA98/NCl0xjlO21k/s400/Junco.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442986519128180386" /></a><br /><br />Oh, and a new hair cut...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfZGveSpI/AAAAAAAAA90/dFqyAH7-rTc/s1600-h/IMG_8754.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S4lfZGveSpI/AAAAAAAAA90/dFqyAH7-rTc/s400/IMG_8754.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442986509565053586" /></a><br /><br />I am ready for spring...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-65484655684401409162010-02-18T10:44:00.000-08:002010-02-19T06:03:32.466-08:00New bag...This bag was cooking in my head for a long time, but it wasn't until last week that I was able to sit down and make the idea come to life.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWiu6_nI/AAAAAAAAA9c/dQKAdFyU_Yk/s1600-h/IMG_8684.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWiu6_nI/AAAAAAAAA9c/dQKAdFyU_Yk/s400/IMG_8684.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439665940423442034" /></a><br /><br />In fact, lots of ideas are cooking here lately and I hope soon I will find enough time to bring them to this world.. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWcY8JTI/AAAAAAAAA9U/zk9bswp6Odg/s1600-h/IMG_8683.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWcY8JTI/AAAAAAAAA9U/zk9bswp6Odg/s400/IMG_8683.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439665938720630066" /></a><br /><br />Back to the bag - I won <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2009/04/i-won.html">Ashley's wonderful giveaway</a> sometime last year and was in love with all those tiny scraps, well I still am. This bag is the first of the many love affairs planned.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TV1MzGKI/AAAAAAAAA9M/_plFISY96a4/s1600-h/IMG_8682.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TV1MzGKI/AAAAAAAAA9M/_plFISY96a4/s400/IMG_8682.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439665928200722594" /></a><br /><br />Simple and shorter messenger style bag to fit my love of big handbags. The brown is a random purchase from Jo-Ann's clearance sale last year, the inside is polka dot re-purposed bed sheet and batting leftovers from quilts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWwXsAII/AAAAAAAAA9k/bys17e4q-UY/s1600-h/IMG_8686.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S32TWwXsAII/AAAAAAAAA9k/bys17e4q-UY/s400/IMG_8686.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439665944084086914" /></a><br /><br />Nothing new was purchased for this bag, therefore it fits in my <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2010/01/challenging.html">challenge of this year</a>. <br /><br />Thanks Ashley! I love my new bag..Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-69278087809656646812010-02-11T11:14:00.000-08:002010-02-11T11:15:45.118-08:00Some more mindless sewing...I had another one of those nights last week when I just wanted to sit down and sew. I pulled my bag of small strip scraps and these are what I came up with.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2xs-K0vTiI/AAAAAAAAA8M/78u-41cMf5U/s1600-h/IMG_3212.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2xs-K0vTiI/AAAAAAAAA8M/78u-41cMf5U/s400/IMG_3212.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434838665642593826" /></a><br /><br />Now, what do I do with them? I had some ideas, but so far they have been coming and going.<br />Add some solid and do quilt? Tote bags with scrappy appliqué? Apron with scrappy pockets? Pillows?<br />Who knows...<br />I might just wait and sleep a little more on this one...<br /><br />... and maybe they could become a nice houses for a great cause...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3RIE74EHxI/AAAAAAAAA9E/uXp3sm6EBIg/s1600-h/houses.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 207px; height: 264px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3RIE74EHxI/AAAAAAAAA9E/uXp3sm6EBIg/s400/houses.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437049899772550930" /></a><br /><br /><br />check out <a href="http://bumblebeans.blogspot.com/2010/02/call-for-help.html">Bumble Beans Inc</a> to see how to help.Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-39622905061930319762010-02-09T09:00:00.000-08:002010-02-09T07:30:37.848-08:00Simple red and white<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2yyJPFs8rI/AAAAAAAAA8c/NBmbqBkGiiQ/s1600-h/IMG_3209.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2yyJPFs8rI/AAAAAAAAA8c/NBmbqBkGiiQ/s400/IMG_3209.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434914722068361906" /></a><br /><br />This is the quilt that has been sitting for about two years. I found all of the red squares already cut in the local thrift store and just couldn't leave them there. Later I found a fabric that inspired me for mixing them with florals. I have made <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2008/12/more-handmade-presents.html">a couple of pillows</a> in this style already.<br /><a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2008/10/where-to-start.html">Here</a> is archive post about this one. I can't believe it took me so long to make this top.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2yyIiEYwOI/AAAAAAAAA8U/rFaCM_19Jtg/s1600-h/IMG_3206.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2yyIiEYwOI/AAAAAAAAA8U/rFaCM_19Jtg/s400/IMG_3206.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434914709983248610" /></a><br /><br />It still needs borders since I ran out of red squares and quilt is too small just like that, but that shouldn't take another two years to finish. Right?Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-30209231358564969272010-02-07T21:06:00.000-08:002010-02-08T06:34:26.033-08:00My weekend experiments...I am so happy to be back here with a good news.<br />My new batch of yogurt turned out amazing! It's thick and oh so yummyyy! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3AZL8-QK4I/AAAAAAAAA88/99pIT-YF58Y/s1600-h/yogurt.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 308px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3AZL8-QK4I/AAAAAAAAA88/99pIT-YF58Y/s400/yogurt.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435872443372678018" /></a><br /><br />I have to thank <a href="http://www.sunflowerquilts.blogspot.com">Jennie</a> for suggesting to let it set much longer because that is exactly what I did. I place it on closed heating vent and covered with blankets for most of the day (about 6-7 hours) When I went to check on it later it was still runny, I realized that since I am baking a lot in the kitchen, our heating stopped running, so I moved the yogurt on the top of the stove while the oven was cooling and left. An hour or so later, the yogurt was thick to the point that when I turned the jar sideways, the yogurt stayed in its place.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">( Another friend suggested to place it on the top of the fridge towards the back, where it's nice and toasty. )</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3AZLZkw9fI/AAAAAAAAA80/tmmwVa8fjr4/s1600-h/IMG_3264.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S3AZLZkw9fI/AAAAAAAAA80/tmmwVa8fjr4/s400/IMG_3264.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435872433870534130" /></a><br /> <br />This morning I had the best yogurt ever. <br /><br />So how about the bread?<br />I used the same recipe from <a href="http://www.craftykin.blogspot.com">Hanna</a> for no-rise bread and made these buns. This time I used only white flour. They turned out great! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2-ej0HaZnI/AAAAAAAAA8s/Lbmscob2iOA/s1600-h/IMG_3262.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2-ej0HaZnI/AAAAAAAAA8s/Lbmscob2iOA/s400/IMG_3262.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435737613381822066" /></a><br /><br />For the loaf of bread, I tried my mom's recipe or bread she made when I was little. I have so many memories of this bread baked in our house and me laying my head on the towel covered bread feeling how nice and warm it is.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2-ejT1GAcI/AAAAAAAAA8k/eV1sNpeGlU8/s1600-h/IMG_3257.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2-ejT1GAcI/AAAAAAAAA8k/eV1sNpeGlU8/s400/IMG_3257.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435737604715053506" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Mom's bread</span><br /><br />1 kg (6 cups) all-purpose flour<br />1 spoon of salt<br />3 tsp dry yeast<br />2 spoons of vinegar<br />6 dcl (2.5 cups) warm water<br />1 spoon of sugar<br />3 medium size boiled potatoes, shredded (I cooked them and used larger cheese shredder) <br /><br />Add water, yeast and sugar, mix well, let sit for couple of minutes. Add flour, salt, potatoes, vinegar. Knead the dough (it will be light) and let it rise on the warm spot. (about an hour, or until it doubled in size) Spill out from bowl on the flour covered surface and knead some more, roll out a bit and fold, let rise again for about 20 minutes, repeat once more. <br />Create a oval shaped loaf and place on the flour covered baking sheet. <br />Bake on 200 C (390 F) for 15 minutes, then on 150 C (300 F) for 45 minutes<br />I used brush and brushed the loaf several times with water as it was baking, makes nice crust.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">- now, I was lazy (I know I wish I didn't do this, but I wanted to be done faster) and only let the dough rise once (just to see if it would work anyway). It turned out OK, but it took much longer to bake. After 45 minutes, I had to raise the temp. on 200 C again and give it another half an hour or so. Also, I remember mom's bread being bigger. I learned my lesson... :(</span>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-86730655612105155332010-02-05T06:28:00.000-08:002010-02-05T08:31:25.644-08:00Sewing Spring...A whole lot is going on these days, but since I have been kicked by a creative/ sewing muse, I am spending every minute possible at my little sewing corner or in the kitchen.<br />So what did I do?<br /><br />( <span style="font-style:italic;">I need to catch up with picture taking.</span>)<br /><br />- more mindless sewing<br />- baby quilt almost finished<br />- quilt top that was planned for <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2008/10/where-to-start.html">a long time</a><br />- and another quilt top in progress<br /><br />It still snows here and even more snow is expected, but I have been longing for spring for some time now. That is how this project started. <br /><br />Can you find a dog in this picture?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4RJgUCzI/AAAAAAAAA7s/-RbXRLrvuVA/s1600-h/IMG_3199.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4RJgUCzI/AAAAAAAAA7s/-RbXRLrvuVA/s400/IMG_3199.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434780717589728050" /></a><br /><br />I told you, I was busy...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4RQmeLrI/AAAAAAAAA70/ZMbeka7Id2w/s1600-h/IMG_3202.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4RQmeLrI/AAAAAAAAA70/ZMbeka7Id2w/s400/IMG_3202.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434780719494606514" /></a><br /><br />I have found some new for me inspiring blogs that I would like to share. One of them (<span style="font-style:italic;">and the one I browsed all yesterday and this early morning</span>) is <a href="http://craftykin.blogspot.com">Craftykin</a> I found her through <a href="http://saltandchocolate.blogspot.com/2010/02/recipe-favorites-comfort-of-soup-with.html">Mary Beth's</a> post.<br />Hanna inspired me to bake my own bread and make my own yogurt yesterday. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4R_p2sfI/AAAAAAAAA78/ePT0XaAP8TQ/s1600-h/IMG_3205.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2w4R_p2sfI/AAAAAAAAA78/ePT0XaAP8TQ/s400/IMG_3205.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434780732125262322" /></a><br /><br />For the bread, I used Hanna's no-rise recipe (look for it on her sidebar). I opted for 4 cups of white flour and 2 cups of whole wheat. Next time, I will try either much less wholewheat flour or none since it made a bread quite heavy. <br />For the yogurt, I am going to try it again. I know it is supposed to be runny compared to store bought yogurt, but how do I know if mine is too runny or not (reminds me consistency of a banana milk shake). Any thoughts?<br />Also, I read that sour taste of yogurt depends on how many hours it sits (3.5 hours less sour, 5 hours more sour). I am going to try this again and let it sit less hours to compare the taste.<br />I can't wait to try both o them again and find ways to make these regulars. <br /><br />Also,<br />I have been nominated by my <a href="http://www.nausnice.blogspot.com">sister</a> for a blog award. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2xAcxD65FI/AAAAAAAAA8E/xKO6-shLkG8/s1600-h/blog_award.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2xAcxD65FI/AAAAAAAAA8E/xKO6-shLkG8/s400/blog_award.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434789713279640658" /></a><br /><br />I should pick another five blogs to pass this on. How can I do that? There is way too many gorgeous blogs in my reader. <br />maybe I can pick some that I was inspired by recently.<br />1.<a href="http://craftykin.blogspot.com"> Craftykin</a>, I don't think this one needs more explanation.<br />2. <a href="http://www.saltandchocolate.blogspot.com">Salt and Chocolate</a>, for making me hungry whenever I learn about another yummy recipe she tried.<br />3. <a href="http://www.quiltedsimple.blogspot.com/">Quilted Simple</a>, for joining me in eliminating buying new fabric, so we can be using what we have<br />4. <a href="http://bumblebeans.blogspot.com">Bumble Beans</a>, for inspiring me to play with color.<br />and <br />5. <a href="http://sunflowerquilts.blogspot.com">Sunflower Quilts</a>, for reminding me that quilting/sewing with friends is much better.Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-78327593964889510002010-01-27T07:43:00.000-08:002010-01-27T09:41:56.764-08:00Mindless sewing...Two nights ago, I was a bit frustrated with life and so I sat down to my sewing machine, emptied the box with random little bits of fabric and did some mindless sewing.<br />I have not done this for a long long time and needed it so badly. My mood changed instantly as I just pieced and pieced.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BudvOBOYI/AAAAAAAAA5s/l1kyLsGenp4/s1600-h/IMG_2829.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BudvOBOYI/AAAAAAAAA5s/l1kyLsGenp4/s400/IMG_2829.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431462607779346818" /></a><br /><br />It was maybe midnight when I looked at what I had and started thinking to myself, "OK, so what will this be?"<br /><br />a quilt?<br /><br />a bag?<br /><br />The next morning I knew...<br />Last nigh I sat down and finished quilting..<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B0xyLqehI/AAAAAAAAA6E/W4lYfk5LXzE/s1600-h/IMG_2835.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B0xyLqehI/AAAAAAAAA6E/W4lYfk5LXzE/s400/IMG_2835.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431469549241924114" /></a><br /><br />... and now I have my own and very first, much needed sewing machine cover to replace the ugly white plastic one that came with it...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BxNUIAbAI/AAAAAAAAA50/hoiY58QmzV8/s1600-h/IMG_2833.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BxNUIAbAI/AAAAAAAAA50/hoiY58QmzV8/s400/IMG_2833.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431465624163347458" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BxOFBf7_I/AAAAAAAAA58/EyE7RH5NaSc/s1600-h/IMG_2834.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2BxOFBf7_I/AAAAAAAAA58/EyE7RH5NaSc/s400/IMG_2834.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431465637289390066" /></a><br /><br />And it is reversible... I chose one of my favorite vintage fabrics... "Screen printed... Militaire" <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B23F6J59I/AAAAAAAAA6M/Fjm-HNRBz78/s1600-h/IMG_2836.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B23F6J59I/AAAAAAAAA6M/Fjm-HNRBz78/s400/IMG_2836.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431471839459796946" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B4nhRUMvI/AAAAAAAAA6U/sBb9AxwVNzI/s1600-h/IMG_2837.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S2B4nhRUMvI/AAAAAAAAA6U/sBb9AxwVNzI/s400/IMG_2837.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431473770950046450" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I am having a feeling that there would be much more mindless sewing in my near future.Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-28970449478991487052010-01-25T10:10:00.000-08:002010-01-25T10:23:23.763-08:00First quilt in 2010...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPWn51II/AAAAAAAAA5k/02GMZDkwcIw/s1600-h/IMG_2817.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPWn51II/AAAAAAAAA5k/02GMZDkwcIw/s400/IMG_2817.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430744379565921410" /></a><br /><br />I am so glad this one is finished. This was again one of those quilts that I would never do on my own. I mean the colors. I love when I am pushed to create out of my ordinary and then realize, "Hey, this works.."<br />I really like the end result, but I was worried while sewing the strips together. As you may remember this is <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2010/01/challenge-1.html">the post</a> about the inspiration for the color-way of this quilt. I think it worked out great to match the curtains. Let's hope that the recipient of this one will like it as well.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPBdysgI/AAAAAAAAA5U/GFcnQE7tlQQ/s1600-h/IMG_2812.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPBdysgI/AAAAAAAAA5U/GFcnQE7tlQQ/s400/IMG_2812.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430744373886366210" /></a><br /><br />It took me forever to quilt it, just because the school started and more important (right now) work came into play. For quilting, I chose just the simple wavy lines throughout the quilt, which was super easy and fun. I can't wait to see it after the wash (in the washer as I am writing...). It might need an extra photo then. I love this pattern and will definitely use it again.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPOMs6qI/AAAAAAAAA5c/OD7YRkJN-_A/s1600-h/IMG_2814.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 348px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S13hPOMs6qI/AAAAAAAAA5c/OD7YRkJN-_A/s400/IMG_2814.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430744377304345250" /></a><br /><br />The most important? Everything I used for this quilt, I already had, which means I was able to manage my first challenge.<br /><br />I am already working on the next project, but that one can't be shown for awhile since I don't want to spoil a surprise.<br />Next? ...challenge #2...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-24953389359375769792010-01-11T17:23:00.000-08:002010-01-11T19:22:50.866-08:00First Day....I finished the top and pieced the back for Challenge #1 quilt, but no show until its completely done, that's how I decided. My weekend plans changed a bit, so the amount of sewing I thought I would get done was limited. Also, I've had something with my right arm, knot in the muscle that would only go away after several hours with heating pad and gentle massage. This has been going on for more then a year every time I get too busy with my hands in the kitchen or around the house. It is very frustrating because it means I can only wash so many dishes at the time, or only clean the house part by part, which does not get me far. I know it sounds like a great excuse, but believe me, it's not. :)<br />Sewing doesn't hurt though..I am not sure about quilting a large quilt :(<br /><br />Today was my first day at school as a graduate student. I am really excited to see what all this would bring. I know I need to get ready for a lot of reading, writing, and more reading..<br /><br />And so tonight, instead of tackling the quilt, I will rather sit in my favorite spot on the sofa with my heating pad, articles to read and yummy mandarins.<br /><br />I am going to leave you a link with <a href="http://geospatialrevolution.psu.edu/">a pretty cool video</a> that explain just a bit what I do..<br /><br />I use tools like they present in the video to study plants and tree's spatial distribution and how factors such as climate change affect their growth, spread, and regeneration.. and such...:)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I guess, I just wanted you to know...<br /></div>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-35153193645469025342010-01-07T15:18:00.000-08:002010-01-07T16:04:59.214-08:00Progress...I am moving along with my first 2010 quilt. I hoping to start quilting this weekend or possibly tomorrow. I was a bit concerned since these are not the usual colors I like to work with and not all of them together, but I am liking what I see so far. Don't you love it when you discover new combinations of color?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0PNn-NiI/AAAAAAAAA38/lpBhtUwg4-s/s1600-h/IMG_2775.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0PNn-NiI/AAAAAAAAA38/lpBhtUwg4-s/s400/IMG_2775.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424150605918516770" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I am enjoying to be back in the rhythm of cut, pin, sew and iron, cut, pin, sew and....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0PsddIUI/AAAAAAAAA4E/wevtFyYqr1M/s1600-h/IMG_2774.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0PsddIUI/AAAAAAAAA4E/wevtFyYqr1M/s400/IMG_2774.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424150614195904834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Thanks to <a href="http://emsscrapbag.blogspot.com/">Emily</a>, I have joined the group <a href="http://cancersewdone.ning.com/?xg_source=badge">Cancer is Sew Done</a>. More sewing for a great cause and checking out new blogs. I have already found some great new ones.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0Py5z7qI/AAAAAAAAA4M/b4xVGUXrE58/s1600-h/IMG_2783.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0Z0Py5z7qI/AAAAAAAAA4M/b4xVGUXrE58/s400/IMG_2783.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424150615925452450" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><embed wmode="opaque" src="http://static.ning.com/socialnetworkmain/widgets/index/swf/badge.swf?v=200912171415" flashvars="backgroundColor=0xFFFFFF&textColor=0x000066&config=http%3A%2F%2Fcancersewdone.ning.com%2Fmain%2Fbadge%2FshowPlayerConfig%3Fxg_source%3Dbadge%26size%3Dsmall%26username%3D3ihzlvdmgfxs9" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" scale="noscale" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" width="206" height="104"></embed><br /><small><a href="http://cancersewdone.ning.com/">Visit <em>Cancer is Sew Done</em></a></small>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-45475847688400117492010-01-05T07:50:00.000-08:002010-01-05T08:08:18.108-08:00Challenge #1<span style="font-weight: bold;">What?</span><br />- to make a quilt<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Inspiration?</span><br />- the quilt is a past due Christmas present; it should match this Ikea fabric that is used for window treatments in the room where the quilt will reside<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0NjT83RUGI/AAAAAAAAA3U/cVEbGLjBxgs/s1600-h/IMG_2756.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0NjT83RUGI/AAAAAAAAA3U/cVEbGLjBxgs/s400/IMG_2756.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423287570690822242" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pattern?</span><br />- after searching on line, I have decided for Denyse Schmidt's Hop, Skip and a Jump like<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_tory/2547006672/in/photostream/"> this one</a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Material?</span><br />- as my challenge this year requests, no buying of a material allowed, so I searched my stash and found these<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0NjUUMXpbI/AAAAAAAAA3c/YsGEAcWEVfM/s1600-h/IMG_2757.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0NjUUMXpbI/AAAAAAAAA3c/YsGEAcWEVfM/s400/IMG_2757.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423287576953333170" border="0" /></a><br /><br />- my initial thought was to use only solids, which I think would look great, but I am not allowed, so what else to do?<br />- the recipient of this quilt loves bright colors and crazy patterns, so she should like these<br /><br /><br />I can't wait to see how this turns out, but first - the laundry.<br /><br />PS: Oh, and that cute sleepy ace on the sofa? Our new addition - Zora.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/just_tory/2547006672/in/photostream/"><br /></a>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-27830283154134386882010-01-04T06:07:00.000-08:002010-01-04T06:11:10.425-08:00One last finish of 2009...<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"> </div>I had this quilt top done for almost two years , well without the appliqué on it. It all started when I decided it's time to learn how to quilt my own finished tops and was looking for some inspirational quilting patterns. This way before I even tried free motion quilting, so an interesting straight lines, that was all I was looking for. I flipped through a book in Borders (<span style="font-style: italic;">I don't remember exactly, but it could be </span><em style="font-style: italic;">Last</em><span style="font-style: italic;">-</span><em style="font-style: italic;">Minute</em><span style="font-style: italic;"> Patchwork + </span><em style="font-style: italic;">Quilted Gifts</em><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">)</span> where I found the inspiration for this one. There is not much of a pattern, but I loved the quilting of the one in the book, which was a simple square spiral starting in the middle going to the sides of the quilt.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UPU_PeI/AAAAAAAAA28/Tiz-UaJvVFs/s1600-h/2009-12-27+10.32.06.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UPU_PeI/AAAAAAAAA28/Tiz-UaJvVFs/s400/2009-12-27+10.32.06.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, you can't see it on the pictures for two reasons mainly. One, the pictures were taken with my phone and two, the fabric in the middle is re-purposed window treatment and therefore was washed many times already, which explains the lack of crinkles. However, I loved the way this turned out, but for whatever reason this quilt sat unfinished for two years. It was sometimes in September when I realized that it would be a perfect fit for my future mother-in-law's living room. I made <a href="http://craftfarm.blogspot.com/2008/12/more-handmade-presents.html">these two pillows</a> for her last year for Christmas.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UTB7HdI/AAAAAAAAA3E/m4Q7FQrBNzE/s1600-h/2009-12-27+10.32.18.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UTB7HdI/AAAAAAAAA3E/m4Q7FQrBNzE/s400/2009-12-27+10.32.18.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So the only thing I had to do was somehow marry the quilt to the pillows. I decided for yo-yo flowers appliqué. The stem is a simple vintage ric-rac which I bought about a year ago in the thrift shop and the leaves are from left over fleece that I used two winters ago for our dog's coat. Backing fabric is one of many given to me by friends and family of some past quilters and binding was another thrift store find from about two years ago.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UQXU7FI/AAAAAAAAA3M/3iLIlMFrJ0k/s1600-h/2009-12-27+10.33.04.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/S0H2UQXU7FI/AAAAAAAAA3M/3iLIlMFrJ0k/s400/2009-12-27+10.33.04.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I love when my thrifted purchases wait and find their perfect place one day.<br />So, I guess this quilt could count in for my challenge except it was done in 2009.<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-22648711345314803012010-01-02T07:18:00.000-08:002010-01-02T08:54:26.414-08:00Challenging...Hello 2010!<br /><br />As I said, I have a lots of ideas in mind for crafting this year. I was inspired by one of my Christmas presents. Many of you probably already seen the movie <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1135503/">Julie & Julia</a> or read either one of the books that are out there. Well, until this holidays, I did not. And so, as I watched my copy of the movie while my own blog have been abandoned for couple of months, I decided to change something.<br />I finished watching the movie on Christmas Eve, well it was 4 am so technically it was the Christmas Day, my head swelled up with ideas and questions of how could I inspire myself to keep blogging and sewing even though time and money are going to be tight in 2010?<br />It didn't take me too long..., but I kept it simple.. Now, I have no desire to write a book or making a movie, oh no. All I am in for is an inspiration, something that will keep me going when another crazy semester starts and my free time shrinks to almost nothing as well as my energy level.<br /><br />So here is my challenge:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Use up <span style="font-weight: bold;">as much as possible and only</span> the existing fabric and material, meaning what is home, here, ready for me to use.<br />And yes, there is plenty for me to do for a whole year, believe me.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I am working on my "to do" list that I can hang somewhere near.<br />Also, this challenge of not buying any new material can't affect the quality of the projects/ quilts crafted, rather should make them unique and more interesting.<br />I feel that my challenge is not going to be the fact of not buying anything new, since as I mentioned, I will have to use my grad student resources for survival only. However, the challenging part should be the one of creating with what I have. How will I do when I will miss that perfect shade of green or need more of the color/ pattern I already have. I do understand that certain sewing supplies will be needed as my current stash will dwindle down, such as, thread and batting, but maybe I will try to focus on the quilt tops then and wait with quilting as resources will allow.<br /><div style="text-align: center;">So, wish me luck!<br /></div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-48091100896257052642009-12-31T10:40:00.000-08:002009-12-31T12:34:33.484-08:00...and another year is over<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:georgia;" >2009</span></span> for me, was the year of transition:<br /><ul><li>the year, that I started surrounded by my close family after being apart for a long long time, at least for a few days<br /></li><li>the year that started very well on the crafting front, but ended very poorly</li><li>the year of the best harvest ever in our little garden</li><li>the year of many firsts: first fishing trip, first salsa made, first research trip ever, first time in Canada, first time kayaking, jumping of the cliffs, first real presentation on the conference, first time grad student</li><li>the year when new plans were made</li><li>the year, when one career ended and the new is starting</li><li>the year that I abandoned my blog for the longest time ever...</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"> ..., but even-though managed to create something.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sz0D4lCmjaI/AAAAAAAAA2U/mvAxd2Xr4sU/s1600-h/Phone+camera.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sz0D4lCmjaI/AAAAAAAAA2U/mvAxd2Xr4sU/s400/Phone+camera.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421493796974529954" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The year that will be over in several hours...<br /><br />Right now I am full of expectations on what is waiting for me in <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >2010</span>, since I already learned not to plan too hard...<br />However, I have a lot in mind for this little space of mine and hope I can share...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Let's start fresh tomorrow...<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: georgia;"></span></span><br /><br /></div>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-297981917787371722009-08-02T22:50:00.000-07:002009-08-02T23:05:24.665-07:00100th post and a giveaway winner...I would like to thank you for participating in my first, but definitely not last giveaway. I enjoyed reading your comments and the various ideas for those fun fabrics.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnZ9gw1OR0I/AAAAAAAAA2E/Z9pa7LNeOag/s1600-h/IMG_0193.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnZ9gw1OR0I/AAAAAAAAA2E/Z9pa7LNeOag/s400/IMG_0193.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614007875946306" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I cut 22 different fabrics in various amounts from quarter yard to about a half yard.<br />I used the random number generator to find...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The winner ....<a href="http://bumblebeans.blogspot.com/">Bumble Beans</a><br /><br /></div>I am sending you an email as I am writing this. I sure hope you will enjoy these.<br /><br />I spent my weekend preparing for a big camping trip to Canada, but I was able to harvest whatever was in the garden and produce some yummy salsa.<br /><br />Now is 1am and I am leaving tomorrow early morning. I will be missing from this space for couple of weeks, but will be back full of motivation. I am taking along my new toy to keep my hands busy on those long rainy days - yo-yo maker. On that later...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-23875929268356380892009-07-29T08:16:00.000-07:002009-07-29T10:42:50.732-07:00Secret Grandma's Garden and GIVEAWAY...<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">It took a little a longer, but Grandma's Garden is finished. I really like it and hope that it will auction well at the reunion this weekend. I wish I could be there, but I am getting ready for a little adventure here. I will be gone for about two weeks roaming through woods of Canada, leaving Monday. I am really excited. Do you have any suggestion for small hand sewing projects while camping?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBouKCydaI/AAAAAAAAA1s/Vb_eISslnGg/s1600-h/IMG_0068.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBouKCydaI/AAAAAAAAA1s/Vb_eISslnGg/s400/IMG_0068.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br />Instead of using binding I just sew the backing on as if it would be a pillow. One of the reasons was the lack of time, but also I didn't feel like it needed a border or binding. I am glad I did that.<br /><br /><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBotzf4LHI/AAAAAAAAA1k/dnm3FwZKqeE/s1600-h/IMG_0062.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBotzf4LHI/AAAAAAAAA1k/dnm3FwZKqeE/s400/IMG_0062.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I used simple straight lines to quilt this one just to make sure that I won't mess up the flowers.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBoumYqj6I/AAAAAAAAA10/1wejxYwejEk/s1600-h/IMG_0073.JPG"><img alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnBoumYqj6I/AAAAAAAAA10/1wejxYwejEk/s400/IMG_0073.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Also, I just realized this week that it was a year since I started blogging at the beginning of July and I am also approaching a 100th post , I decided to giveaway some vintage fabric.<br />This box of fabric is only one of several (<span style="font-style: italic;">but my favorite</span>) that I received this summer from friends who thought of me anytime when someone was getting rid of fabric. I love these.<br />They are in very good shape.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnCJC-bBuII/AAAAAAAAA18/QuKDB0Z5oKE/s1600-h/IMG_0113.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SnCJC-bBuII/AAAAAAAAA18/QuKDB0Z5oKE/s400/IMG_0113.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363937840407361666" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I will share a fat quarter to a half yard (depending on the amount I have) of each with the winner.<br />Go ahead, leave a comment, and let me know what would you use it for until midnight on Saturday 8/1/2009. Get an extra entry if you blog about it (<span style="font-style: italic;">feel free to use this photo</span>) or become a follower of this blog.<br /><br /><br />EDIT: <span style="font-style: italic;">I hope that you can all view the picture of fabrics now. I guess it didn't work well before. I did had issues earlier with photo uploads. (7-29-2009 12:42pm CST)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://localhost:2601/6d51558d3cd3908275f4edb2b37dff7b/image/cfd945319074802e.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://localhost:2601/6d51558d3cd3908275f4edb2b37dff7b/image/cfd945319074802e.jpg?size=400" border="0" /></a> </div><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" alt="Posted by Picasa" style="border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" align="middle" border="0" /></a></div>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-84881568515078464962009-07-27T07:20:00.000-07:002009-07-27T08:31:27.953-07:00Gratefull and sewing...Let me just start of by saying how glad I am to have a blog. Just by getting back and reading all those blogs in my reader, I was able to throw back all the bitterness, anger, stress and soak up inspiration, motivation and peaceful, happy attitude. Why did it took me so long ???<br />I spent my week catching up (I think that describes it the best) and planning my new project.<br /><br />And as it couldn't get any better, I was invited to meet my blog friend <a href="http://sunflowerquilts.blogspot.com/">Jennie</a> at the local quilt shop for a Lock-in organized by her friend<a href="http://acciofabric.blogspot.com/"> Vicki</a>. This was the first time I have met someone form the blogland and the first time that I participated in any of the class/ lock-in/ quilt-group activities.<br />Oh, and was this fun... I had the best time sewing away and chatting with my new friends.<br /><br />Thanks again Jennie for inviting me...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6KAwJvI/AAAAAAAAA1M/1cWhqvvV6F4/s1600-h/DSCN7777.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6KAwJvI/AAAAAAAAA1M/1cWhqvvV6F4/s400/DSCN7777.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363160334178723570" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Now, on to the project... This little "wall hanging to be" has a story behind it. Every year the first weekend of August we travel to Pennsylvania for a family reunion. It is not my family, but I was taken in as if it was .. well that is a long story. The oldest member of the family is Grandma, she will be 91 next week. The reunion is always the weekend of her birthday. Grandma found out about my love for frugal quilts, scraps and vintage fabrics. She sent me a box full of cut up pieces of her robe that she was not ready to part with and wanted to see if I could use it for anything.<br />How could I not find the project for it (It is bright fuchsia fabric, puffy and soft, but not quite like minky.). In fact, I had a perfect one in mind. I also wanted to create something for the reunion auction we have every year.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F5rPWKyI/AAAAAAAAA1E/P4a6EYhn97c/s1600-h/DSCN7768.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F5rPWKyI/AAAAAAAAA1E/P4a6EYhn97c/s400/DSCN7768.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363160325918436130" border="0" /></a><br /><br />That is how Grandma Secret Garden wall hanging came to life. I used mostly my scraps (I had plenty of greens.), but I had to buy some more of pinks and purples, since I don't have much of those shades.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6UlTAjI/AAAAAAAAA1U/dkcR6rc_DkQ/s1600-h/DSCN7782.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6UlTAjI/AAAAAAAAA1U/dkcR6rc_DkQ/s400/DSCN7782.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363160337016357426" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I started at noon on Saturday and this is how it looks now. I will put it together and quilt it tonight.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6pemZZI/AAAAAAAAA1c/pzF0rnySeKg/s1600-h/DSCN7791.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sm3F6pemZZI/AAAAAAAAA1c/pzF0rnySeKg/s400/DSCN7791.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363160342625412498" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The original pattern came from the magazine I have, but I found it <a href="http://books.google.com/books?id=AE6ZdSFU6LYC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_navlinks_s">here</a> as well (<span style="font-style: italic;">scroll to page #31</span>) . I adjusted the size and number of blocks due to the time crunch I am in.<br /><br /><br /><br />I just realized as I am typing all this that it has been a little over a year since I had this blog and I totally missed it... :)<br /><br />Well, we need to celebrate... come back for a giveaway soon.Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-88710791221400922942009-07-22T07:13:00.000-07:002009-07-22T07:37:41.034-07:00Hey, do you still remember me?I hope that at least some of you still might... :)<br /><br />I have disappeared from this space for some time now, but don't worry you didn't miss much on my front. Only very unmotivated, slightly depressed and totally useless woman that had no idea what is going on with her. I blame it on stress from way too many things happening at the time... I have to blame it on something, right?<br /><br />This blog is meant to be all about crafts and there is a heavy layer of dust around my sewing area, so I am off to get moving and get some quilts done... The first one actually has a due date, which is next week... here is a peek of where the idea came from...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SmcjilJ_vZI/AAAAAAAAA08/xeaSUxcI65o/s1600-h/DSCN7724.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SmcjilJ_vZI/AAAAAAAAA08/xeaSUxcI65o/s400/DSCN7724.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361292958404427154" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I am afraid, I have missed out way too much of all that you have been doing. Sorry for that, I will try to catch up on all that in between some crazy sewing marathon...<br />Do you want to help me out? Let me know about the most exciting project that you have finished or were working on in the past two months...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-4429085252439533002009-06-07T13:45:00.000-07:002009-06-07T18:04:58.449-07:00Poor people food...I was able to cook this weekend with the first fruits of this year's garden (of course, if I don't count radishes, those we are eating for weeks now...). I have planted about 15 kohlrabi plants and if you grew those before, you know it takes a while until the fruit is ready. However, there is plenty of kohlrabi leaves before that.<br />When I was little, my grandma use to make this meal every time my dad brought kohlrabi from garden or we bought some at the store. I think she developed this recipe in times when food was scarce and people were trying not to trow anything away. What do you do with the left over leaves?<br /><br />"PODLUBKY"(I quess it was my Grandma who named it, it doesn't really mean anything, we can call it Kohlrabi greens thick soup....)<br />What would you need? (4 servings)<br /><br /><ul><li>20 or more kohlrabi leaves</li><li>approx. 10-15 slices of bacon, if you use thin sliced<br /></li><li>2-4 cloves of garlic </li><li>a little milk and flour</li><li>salt, pepper, vegetable seasoning</li></ul>Wash kohlrabi leaves and cut the main stem out.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw05v80dPI/AAAAAAAAAzY/EZq_nWuweDQ/s1600-h/DSCN7356.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw05v80dPI/AAAAAAAAAzY/EZq_nWuweDQ/s400/DSCN7356.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344705024510686450" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw052G4aRI/AAAAAAAAAzg/q5A-3Ji2xLw/s1600-h/DSCN7358.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw052G4aRI/AAAAAAAAAzg/q5A-3Ji2xLw/s400/DSCN7358.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344705026163501330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Roll the leaves up and cut into half inch pieces.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06EIuDgI/AAAAAAAAAzo/0H7qmQoqgik/s1600-h/DSCN7359.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06EIuDgI/AAAAAAAAAzo/0H7qmQoqgik/s400/DSCN7359.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344705029929307650" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here you can see my compost bowl/ colander... everything that can, goes to compost around here...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06ZoowNI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Hc_syNESQsY/s1600-h/DSCN7357.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06ZoowNI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Hc_syNESQsY/s400/DSCN7357.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344705035700322514" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Next dice bacon, and heat to crispy bacon pieces, then add kohlrabi. If you are vegetarian this could be substituted by onion and bit of olive oil.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06oMcs_I/AAAAAAAAAz4/nF-nf1yoqfw/s1600-h/DSCN7360.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Siw06oMcs_I/AAAAAAAAAz4/nF-nf1yoqfw/s400/DSCN7360.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344705039608624114" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Once, kohlrabi leaves are a little softer, add water (broth), so everything is covered.<br />Add garlic, seasonings and cook until soft for 20-30 minutes. Let it boil and then simmer.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SixglC3uUxI/AAAAAAAAA0A/wzl5_-gXMy4/s1600-h/DSCN7364.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SixglC3uUxI/AAAAAAAAA0A/wzl5_-gXMy4/s400/DSCN7364.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344753047323955986" border="0" /></a><br /><br />While simmering add mixture of flour and milk (about 3 spoons of flour), just to thicken the soup), if you are used to thickening your soups somehow else, go ahead.<br /><br />We eat this with egg - "sunny side up" on the top and bread, which is optional.<br />Use your imagination...<br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><br />This might not be that gourmet food that you want to make for your guest, but it is very tasty and also healthy. The most important it is super cheap and quick. Most of the people throw those leaves away.<br />If you never tried kohlrabi before, than all I can say is, "You should give them a try."Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-5372268790002304122009-06-05T14:07:00.000-07:002009-06-05T14:34:11.100-07:00Weekend inspiration...It is late, but I would like to report on our last weekend spent in Devils Lake, WI. We had the best time.<br />Take a look...<br />there was a lot of woodland picture taking...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMJCi58FI/AAAAAAAAAyg/Xn2ObRIBXLE/s1600-h/DSCN7252.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMJCi58FI/AAAAAAAAAyg/Xn2ObRIBXLE/s400/DSCN7252.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343956519781789778" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMI8cruVI/AAAAAAAAAyY/eIJFKY0yqe8/s1600-h/DSCN7251.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMI8cruVI/AAAAAAAAAyY/eIJFKY0yqe8/s400/DSCN7251.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343956518145079634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMJTqKewI/AAAAAAAAAyo/QFlJUyFRugc/s1600-h/DSCN7253.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMJTqKewI/AAAAAAAAAyo/QFlJUyFRugc/s400/DSCN7253.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343956524375636738" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOvJLDNbI/AAAAAAAAAyw/_t5ZuVY3HGk/s1600-h/DSCN7267.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOvJLDNbI/AAAAAAAAAyw/_t5ZuVY3HGk/s400/DSCN7267.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343959373419066802" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMItRrdCI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/bJyuolSemHM/s1600-h/DSCN7237.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMItRrdCI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/bJyuolSemHM/s400/DSCN7237.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343956514072392738" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMIRgFyFI/AAAAAAAAAyI/E2G3K-2Koyg/s1600-h/DSCN7233.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimMIRgFyFI/AAAAAAAAAyI/E2G3K-2Koyg/s400/DSCN7233.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343956506616645714" border="0" /></a><br />...hiking with beautiful views...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOvrzSI8I/AAAAAAAAAy4/PDTw2BnIa6U/s1600-h/DSCN7282.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOvrzSI8I/AAAAAAAAAy4/PDTw2BnIa6U/s400/DSCN7282.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343959382714622914" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOwTZtH4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/9-NA5jVKHx0/s1600-h/DSCN7207.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOwTZtH4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/9-NA5jVKHx0/s400/DSCN7207.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343959393344757634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOwAa3P8I/AAAAAAAAAzI/h8TsqdKV-gM/s1600-h/DSCN7213.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOwAa3P8I/AAAAAAAAAzI/h8TsqdKV-gM/s400/DSCN7213.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343959388249341890" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOv4Ex9TI/AAAAAAAAAzA/YFW4pwazF3M/s1600-h/DSCN7283.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SimOv4Ex9TI/AAAAAAAAAzA/YFW4pwazF3M/s400/DSCN7283.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343959386009236786" border="0" /></a><br />...fishing and preparing yummy fish on the fire...<br /><br />oh, and Dominoes playing...<br /><br />Like I said the best time...<br /><br />Have a great weekend, mine will be spent outdoors again...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-42656059175571865342009-05-27T07:15:00.000-07:002009-05-27T08:15:46.564-07:00Returning...I guess, I took almost unexpected break from blogging and bunch of other things, but here I am ready to get back to my normal.<br />I needed some time off from my usual, at least, that is how I explain myself to myself. :)<br />I spent a lot of time outside not far, just in my yard, enjoying every new leaf that grew and every new bloom.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Ptvy217I/AAAAAAAAAxo/tjTSbgNRt-A/s1600-h/DSCN7127.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Ptvy217I/AAAAAAAAAxo/tjTSbgNRt-A/s400/DSCN7127.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340512380473759666" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My vegetables are all planted in abundance, now I am anxious to harvest fruits.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1PtdjlazI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Fdx1rZZgMaw/s1600-h/DSCN7118.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1PtdjlazI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Fdx1rZZgMaw/s400/DSCN7118.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340512375577865010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Psz5xYnI/AAAAAAAAAxY/3JrejZoQzPM/s1600-h/DSCN7117.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Psz5xYnI/AAAAAAAAAxY/3JrejZoQzPM/s400/DSCN7117.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340512364396634738" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I visited with old friends and family, who hardly see me during the school time.<br />The most important, I organized my life a bit (really just a bit) and set my priorities once again...<br /><br />Now? I am really longing for craftiness.<br /><br />..but before I have to show for any of that, here are some pieces of my garden...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1PsfUc4KI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/BsZtEYOpNiU/s1600-h/DSCN7107.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1PsfUc4KI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/BsZtEYOpNiU/s400/DSCN7107.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340512358871392418" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Pt4mNbMI/AAAAAAAAAxw/UrET2Ajdmoc/s1600-h/DSCN7137.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Pt4mNbMI/AAAAAAAAAxw/UrET2Ajdmoc/s400/DSCN7137.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340512382836632770" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Q95xWU2I/AAAAAAAAAx4/1P_t3AvztPM/s1600-h/DSCN7138.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Q95xWU2I/AAAAAAAAAx4/1P_t3AvztPM/s400/DSCN7138.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340513757541323618" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Q-MzWt3I/AAAAAAAAAyA/NbNZy0m88vw/s1600-h/DSCN7143.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/Sh1Q-MzWt3I/AAAAAAAAAyA/NbNZy0m88vw/s400/DSCN7143.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340513762650011506" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Thank you all for comments wondering about me and whether I found time to sew... I read and appreciate them all. I guess it is hard to admit several times in row that things are not going the way I wished they would. :)<br />Thanks for visiting...Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-13947317989954751322009-05-08T04:34:00.000-07:002009-05-08T04:46:38.825-07:00Finals are done, I am back...Just a quick note for those who might want to know... Yep, finals and school is behind me for now and I will be back here enjoying the crafty days with you. I have a long list of want to and need to, but since my work situation is not going to change for now, I do have more time on my hands.<br />All of you moms out there, enjoy yours Mother's Day weekend! We will be out of town till Monday.<br /><br />Happy mother's day to my mom that is far far away.... I love you mom.<br /><br />And here, so my dad does not need to translate:<br /><br />Mamka,<br />vsetko najlepsie ku Dnu Matiek!<br />Lubim Ta a chybas mi...<br />Som rada ze ta mam...<br />M.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SgQbdATF6ZI/AAAAAAAAAxE/qzLI8_3rJGE/s1600-h/78698437.gPOgVUf5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jSoryxB_wJc/SgQbdATF6ZI/AAAAAAAAAxE/qzLI8_3rJGE/s400/78698437.gPOgVUf5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333418043823745426" border="0" /></a>Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2405485034221149044.post-62089646842037054242009-05-05T17:35:00.000-07:002009-05-05T17:46:01.852-07:00A bad news...Thank you all for stopping by. I have been working on my school stuff all this time. All of my projects are finished and I am pretty proud of them. I have last two finals tomorrow. Then I will be back here as usual.<br />In fact, I might be here more often. I just found out today that my hours at work are going to be cut almost in half starting next week, maybe till June. Reason? I guess economy...<br />I am more then frustrated since we had lost one income in the house already. What do i do? I am having a feeling I 'll find out soon.<br />I might have a back up plan, but that will require some prayers. :)<br />On the other side, Jacquie at Tallgrass Prairie Studio is holding the Spring to Finish on till the end of May. I am looking for some quality time spent behind the sewing machine.<br />Wish me luck... I'll need it.Michaelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215162405753412724noreply@blogger.com4