Merry Christmas!

I got this great email the other day...

In Luke 2 the shepherds did not worry about gifts, no one was upset at how unkept the stable looked, and not a word was said about who wasn't coming.  Jesus was all that was needed to bring great joy.  When we focus on what we have in Jesus, we spend less time tied in a knot about what we don't have.  This young newly married couple had all they needed.


I hope everyone is enjoying the Christmas holiday.  I have been busy sewing but I'll take the time to share them in January.  I believe this will be my last post until after the new year.  So I'd like to wish all of you a wonderful....

Merry Christmas!

&

Happy New Year!

(ps...see y'all next year - giggle - work with me.)

Nativity Scene...

The Nativity Scene was erected in a church yard.

During the night the folks came across this scene.  An abandoned dog was looking for a comfortable, protected place to sleep. He chose baby Jesus as his comfort. No one had the heart to send him away so he was there all night.

We should all have the good sense of this dog and curl up in Jesus' lap from time to time.

No one mentioned that the dog breed is a "Shepherd!".

I got this email yesterday & had to share it.  Merry Christmas!

2011 Christmas Quilt Show

For the 2011 Christmas Quilt Show, I'm sharing this Christmas wreath I made last year.  I used Makin' Friends by Deb Strain.  When I saw this recipe on the Moda Bake Shop Blog I knew I had to make one.  You can find the recipe here..

I'm keeping this post nice & short because there are many more beautiful quilts to see.  Just click here to see more...

Darlene...Thank you for hosting such a fun, festive event!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ATTENTION Shoppers...

I love a great deal just as much as the next person BUT I got this email a couple of weeks ago, it's long, I want to share with all of you...

Some really good ideas!

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!

It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?  Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamines on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.

There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or  motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.

THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.

Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?

I don't know who the author is but it makes sense to me.  I know everyone will be busy with family, Thanksgiving festivities, shopping, sewing & other stuff...so, I just want to say 'Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!'.

ps...no comments on this post, I've taken up enough of your time already.

Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!

The Random Drawing Program (aka...my son) picked:

Kris of Dandelion Quilts!  She has a great blog!  And she makes the most prettiest quilts, bags, clutches and other stuff but don't take my word for it...you can check her out right here.

CONGRATS KRIS!!! LOL!

GIVEAWAY...The Wedding Quilt Book

Nicole over at Dutton, a division of Penguin Group, has been kind enough to let me giveaway a hard cover copy of The Wedding Quilt book!  Here's a little tidbit about the book...

THE WEDDING QUILT is a tribute to one of America’s most romantic and enduring traditions.

Effortlessly weaving together past, present, and future, THE WEDDING QUILT introduces Sarah’s long-awaited twins twenty-fives years into the future. Just as Chiaverini longed for a wedding quilt of her own, Sarah’s daughter also dreams of one with which to begin her marriage. Enlisting the help of her fellow Elm Creek Quilters, Sarah collects signatures of the wedding guests in order to surprise her daughter with a quilt to represent all of her loved ones as she begins her new life. Readers will delight in new insight of past Elm Creek Manor brides as Sarah reflects back on her life and the many joyous experiences she’s had with her friends and family at Elm Creek Manor.

You can find out more about Jennifer Chiaverini on her website.  If you are a fan, you might want to check out the 'events' section to see if she will be in your area...just sayin'.


This giveaway will end on Nov. 15th.  Anyone...from anywhere can enter ~ just leave me a comment.  If you can't wait that long to see if you've won the book, I'm sure Barnes and Noble or Amazon have it in stock.

***This giveaway is now closed.

GHASTLIE FQ WINNER!!!

I apologize for the delay...the winner is...

Julie said...Nice idea to put the Ghastlies with red.  I would love those fat quarters!

I've already contacted Julie...Congrats!

Comeback tomorrow for another giveaway!!!

Day 10...Giveaway Reminder...

GOING OUT WITH A BANG...these Ghastlie Sistaahhhhs are going to wrap it up...

Mrs Nan Ghastlie

Mrs. Gmama Jane Ghastlie
Mrs Joan Ghastlie
Mrs. Nancy Ghastlie

 Ms Susan Ghastlie
Madame Ghastlie

LAST CALL - Remember to leave comments on these ladies Ghastlie post to get the chance to be entered in Madame Samm's giveaway!

LAST CALL - Today is the last day to enter my Ghastlie 5 FQ Giveaway...just go here.

Day 9 of more Ghastlie fun...

Before I introduce the next set of my Ghastlie Sistahhhhhs...I just want to thank everyone who commented on my post yesterday.  I appreciated all the sweet comments...it was super cool!


So, for the next round of Ghastlie Sisssttaaaahhhs - here they are...

Mrs. Sharon Ghastlie
Mrs Corrie Ghastlie

Mrs Cheryl Ghastlie

 Mrs. Linda Ghastlie
Mrs. Suki Ghastlie
Mrs. Pickles Ghastlie

Remember to leave comments on these ladies Ghastlie post to get the chance to be entered in Madame Samm's giveaway!

Day 8...

Welcome to my Ghastlie party!  I am a big fan of Halloween...I love the candy, costumes and the candy...lol!

For this Ghastlie event I made 2 wall hangings, Lil' Twister Table Topper & and an iron pad.

I love stars & was inspired by the 4 picture set you get from a photo booth...like the scene from the Karate Kid (the one with Ralph) where Daniel takes Allie to the arcade & they have their picture made...I digress...

I was inspired by the 'Quilting Ironing Pad' recipe on the Moda Bake Shop.  You can find it right here!  Thank you Kathy for sharing!

If you were following the Wantobe party, Melissa (guest #49) inspired me.  As soon as I finished reading the post, I ordered the Lil' Twister & the Big Twister...LOL!  You can go here to see the original post.

And then just for ducks, I went ahead & made this small wall hanging...

Please check out my other Ghastlie Sisssstaaahsss!!!

Mrs. Jane Ghastlie

Mrs. Mary Ghastlie

Mrs. Michelle Ghastlie (you are here!)

Mrs. Dawn Ghastlie 
Mrs Mary Ghastlie

Also, this is a reminder to leave a comment on this post so I can enter you into the sponsor giveaway...
Madame Samm will be drawing a winner from the names that my Ghastlie sisters and I provide at the end of today!

ALSO...in addition to being enter into the sponsor giveaway, I am offering 5 Ghastlie fat quarters (no picture)...just leave me a note in your comment saying that you'd like to be entered!  My giveaway will end this Friday, Nov. 4th.  Winner will be notified on Sat.

Thank you for stopping by!  Have a Ghastlie wonderful day!!!

Day 7...

More non-stop Ghastlie fun!  Here's the next group of Ghastlie Sissstaaaahhhs...

Miss Daisy Ghastlie
Mrs. Dana Ghastlie

Mrs. Elaine Ghastlie 

Mrs. Gramma Sheri Ghastlie
Ms. Suz Ghastlie

Remember to leave comments on these ladies Ghastlie post to get the chance to be entered in Madame Samm's giveaway!

Day 6...HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

up on the chopping block (lol!), are my lovely Ghastlie Sistaaahhhhhsss!

Mrs. Toyna Ghastlie
Mrs Tiramisue Ghastlie

Mrs. Angela Ghastlie

Mrs Pauline Ghastlie

Mrs. Karin Ghastlie

Mrs Barb Ghastlie

Remember to leave comments on these ladies Ghastlie post to get the chance to be entered in Madame Samm's giveaway!

It's day 5...

of more Ghastlie creations!  Next up on the chopping block (lol!)...

Miss Trudi Ghastlie  

 Ms. D Ghastlie

Mrs. Marlene Ghastlie

 Mrs Kim Ghastlie

Mrs Tammy Ghastlie

Remember to leave comments on these ladies Ghastlie post to get the chance to be entered in Madame Samm's giveaway!

Bloggers' Quilt Festival :: Fall 2011

This is a Schnibbles pattern, Scratch.  I used Chic or Treat from Moda.  I made this quilt because I was inspired by Shelia's quilt.  She made it with Swanky.  You can see her Scratch here.  I just finished this quilt about 2 weeks ago, just in time for Halloween...whohoo!

Thanks for stopping by!  Thanks to Amy for hosting such a fun event.  To check out more amazing quilts, you can just click here to go back to the festival.

Day 4 of more Ghastlie Magic...

WHO IS HAVING FUN?!?!?!?  This is one wild, crazy blog hop!  I'm just so excited to be included in this wonderful group of Ghastlie ladies!  So, for day 4...you need to check these ladies out...

Mrs. Katherine Ghastlie              

Ms Sharon Ghastlie

 Mrs. Gooden Ghastlie

Ms. Selina Ghastlie

Mrs. Melinda Ghastlie

 

REMINDER...

Each day we will have a giveaway...

Some of my Ghastlie Sisters have made some special

projects to giveaway and we will have daily BIG PRIZES.

You can find out if you are a grand prize winner here:  www.sewiquiltnow.com

Day 3 of Ghastlie Magic....

Go check out these Ghastlie ladies to find out what they will be offering...     

                   

Mrs. Barb Ghastlie

Miss Karen Ghastlie

Ms. Loralynn Ghastlie

 Ms. Jen Ghastlie. 

Ms Penny Ghastlie

Mrs Rhonda Ghastlie

 

Reminder...

Each day we will have a giveaway...

You can go to MSamm's blog to find out if you are a grand prize winner at

www.sewiquiltnow.com

Day 2 of GHASTLIE fun!!!

For our 2nd day of Ghastlie fun...here are our next 5

 Ghastlie Sistahhhhhhhhhhhhhs with more fun projects to share!

Mrs. Annie Ghastlie

    Mrs Doris Ghastlie

 Mrs Brandie Ghastlie

Ms. Alidiza Ghastlie

Mrs. JudyC Ghastlie

Each day we will have a giveaway...

Some of my Ghastlie Sisters have made some special

projects to giveaway and we will have daily BIG PRIZES 

from these sponsors....to sweeten the CAULDRON....

Some of our Sponsors

Alexander Henry Fabrics- lot's and lot's of Ghastlie Fabric

Quilt Taffy Gift Certificate $51.12 

Colonial Needle -sewing basket 

Janes Fabrics -Kona fabrics in PINK -fat quarter bundle

Reliable Iron - orange Velocity 50

IHAN ( kelly )- aurifil threads

Coeurdalenegifts- 2 sets of Halloween lights

Forth Worth Fabric Studio - gorgeous gift set of Ghasltie fabric

Creative Grid -3 Rulers their top 3 

Blue FIG-  wheeled bag in PINK

and of course some sweet surprises from our 

Guest Ghasltie Sissssssssssssters..!

The Ghastlies Blog Hop....has started!

Welcome to our 1st Annual Ghastlie Blog HOP

If you have this thing for Ghastlies

and they have tied you in a knot

and you wish you could get them out of your mind

than this may be a thought.

We heard her plea for a cure

Mdm Samm was pos/it/ively sure

that we could stitch the nights away

in hopes that we MAY----

( all 53 of us)  

BUT....

The side effects are Ghastlie

there is no mistaking too.

if you don't run this very minute

YOU too will catch the FLU...

We suspected all along 

this was her master plan

she did not want to be alone,

 with all  YOU Ghastlie FANS...

 

 

HERE is OUR Schedule.....

each name will link you to our Ghastlie

Sistahhhhhhhhhhhhhs!

Be sure to leave them some comments

that will have their FLU....

 

 

 ON Monday, October 24th 

   Mrs Kirie Ghastlie

Ms Carol Ghastlie 

Ms. Wendy Ghastlie

Ms. Carrie Ghastlie

Mrs Holly Ghastlie

 ON Tuesday October 25th 

Mrs. Annie Ghastlie

    Mrs Doris Ghastlie

 Mrs Brandie Ghastlie

Ms. Alidiza Ghastlie

Mrs. JudyC Ghastlie

                                     

 ON Wednesday October 26th     

                   

Mrs. Barb Ghastlie

Miss Karen Ghastlie

Ms. Loralynn Ghastlie

 Ms. Jen Ghastlie. 

Ms Penny Ghastlie

 

 ON Thursday October 27th 

           Mrs. Katherine Ghastlie              

Ms Sharon Ghastlie

 Mrs. Gooden Ghastlie

Ms. Selina Ghastlie

Mrs. Melinda Ghastlie

 ON Friday October 28th 

Miss Trudi Ghastlie  

 Ms. D Ghastlie

Mrs. Marlene Ghastlie

 Mrs Kim Ghastlie

Mrs Tammy Ghastlie

 ON Monday October 31st

Mrs. Toyna Ghastlie
Mrs Tiramisue Ghastlie

Mrs. Angela Ghastlie

Mrs Pauline Ghastlie

Mrs. Karin Ghastlie

Mrs Barb Ghastlie

 ON Tuesday November 1st 

Miss Daisy Ghastlie
Mrs. Dana Ghastlie

Mrs. Elaine Ghastlie 

Mrs. Gramma Sheri Ghastlie
Ms. Suz Ghastlie

 ON Wednesday November 2nd

Mrs. Jane Ghastlie
Mrs. Laura Ghastlie 

Mrs. Mary Ghastlie

Mrs. Michelle Ghastlie

Mrs. Dawn Ghastlie 
Mrs Mary Ghastlie

 ON Thursday November 3rd

Mrs. Sharon Ghastlie
Mrs Corrie Ghastlie

Mrs Cheryl Ghastlie

 Mrs. Linda Ghastlie
Mrs. Suki Ghastlie
Mrs. Pickles Ghastlie

 ON Friday November 4th

Mrs Nan Ghastlie

Mrs. Gmama Jane Ghastlie
Mrs Joan Ghastlie
Mrs. Nancy Ghastlie

 Ms Susan Ghastlie
Madame Ghastlie

Each day we will have a giveaway...

Some of my Ghastlie Sisters have made some special

projects to giveaway and we will have daily BIG PRIZES.

There will be a grand winner at Mdm Samm's blog.

I will have my own giveaway on Nov. 2nd...so be sure to come back.

 

 

ATTN: ALL SCRAP BOOKING PEOPLE....

Allie is having one AWESOME giveaway!  I'm not into scrap booking BUT if you are you need to check this out!

2 WINNERS!!!

I did the 'EASY' way & put numbers on paper & had my random generator (aka...my kid) pick 2 pieces of paper...

#8 Melinda

#10 Kelly

I've already emailed them to get their addresses...CONGRATS to Melinda & Kelly!

Thanks go to Plume Books for letting me share The Devil's Puzzle book with you.  If you would like to purchase a copy or find out more info. about Clare O'Donohue you can just click here.

Schnibbles Scratch...DONE!

I finished this baby over the weekend! From start to finish, it only took over a year...can I get a WHOHOO? LOL!  I had to go to my Flickr page to see when I finished the quilt top...I got it done back in September of last year.  I quilted it with a lime green variegated thread...it definitely gives it a freaky feel.

I was inspired by Shelia's version made with Swanky.  I LOVE Swanky.  You can see Shelia's Schnibble here.

Sherrod Studio is having a GRAND OPENING SALE!!!

I'm so excited for Kim!  You can go HERE to check out the deals!!!