I'm back!

You were probably wondering, where is she?  Actually, I really didn't go anywhere (except for a quick trip with 2 buddies.)  I have been at home, like a hermit. 

My friends, Kathy and Peggy and I went for a quick shop hop on Friday.  We started off driving up to Spring Green, WI to Country Sampler.  If you love soft, muted colors and an old feel to your quilts, you would love Country Sampler.  She has been in business for over 20 years and is going strong!  Her quilts are comfortable and warm.  They had a few buses coming through so we shopped and then quickly made it out of there before they arrived.

We then went to one of my favorite shop, J. J. stitches in Sun Prairie, WI.  She had 3 pink and brown quilts right when you walked in her shop and I would have bought all three kits.  I showed restraint because I know that in a few weeks I'm going to get sample fabric of Memories of Provence and I will be busy sewing.  Julie, who ownes J. J. Stitches also designs fabric for Windham and it is wonderful!  She does mostly shirtings her eye for color is fabulous!  The selection of fabric in her shop runs from vintage baby to shirtings to Christmas.  I love it there and always find inspiration!

Our last stop was at Life's a Stitch in Janesville, WI.  Another wonderful shop!  Pat, the owner is an absolute doll and I love to visit with her.  As you might know, I have taught at her shop and will again.  She makes you feel right at home when you walk in.  Her shop has a super selection as well.  She carries everything from Moda to Civil War reproductions and has many samples to tempt you.  If you are in the area, a definite stop!

 So, there was much inspiration and lots of laughs on our trip.  Although it was beastly hot, we still managed to have an awesome time and enjoy each others company and of course the quilt shops!  I did pick up some more fat quarters.  You know me, always picking up more fat quarters!  :)

Meanwhile, I finished the Countdown to Christmas quilt.  I love it!  I decided to make it 3 x 5 instead of the 4 x 5 on the pattern.  I like the size of it.  I was thinking about added some borders on but I think it looks great just as it is.  Also, I'm undecided on the binding, scrappy or red?  What do you think?

Here are some pictures of the blocks and process. 

Final quilt.  Yummy!

Now, all I have to do is get it quilted.  I'm hoping to have it in time for Christmas but if not, there is always next year!

I am working on getting classes ready for the fall and winter.  I have several retreats that I am teaching at and you can view those on my Upcoming Events section.  If you are interested in receiving information about them, please let me know and I can forward that to the organizers of the retreats. 

Hope everyone's summer is going well!  Back later this week, I promise!!