Clevelandgirlie

Painted Desert....

2012-02-03T11:46:00.001-05:00

painted desert
Originally uploaded by Clevelandgirlie

...one of my favorite small thread paintings. Measuring about 10x4.5, this was sketched out using a photograph I took out west on to fabric (cotton duck) and loosely thread painted. I sent this off to a friend in Ohio as part of my participation in the Girlfriend's Sketchbook project.

OCEAN...heat distressing textiles

2012-02-01T14:21:00.001-05:00

OCEAN...heat distressing textiles
Originally uploaded by Clevelandgirlie

painted cotton canvas, layered with acrylic/polyester fancy fabrics, free motion stitched with cotton thread and then heat distressed. Pretty!

Winter Window..

2012-01-27T12:30:00.001-05:00

Winter Mosaic from my Flickr favorites.

Gothic Valentines....

2012-01-18T18:10:00.000-05:00

Have been hiding out in the studio the last few days painting and heat distressing textiles. I painted up a bunch of tyvek in various color combinations - reds, blues, purples, greens - and just had a great time digging through my piles of organzas, lames, silks and chiffons - layering, melting and beading the results.

I'm using the red and black samples for art squares and embellishments for a new line of

gothic nook covers and gothic ipad covers I've been working on. Originally started as more of a Valentine's Day theme, they took on a dark side and the gothic covers were born. I LOVE THEM.

http://www.clevelandgirlie.etsy/

I came across some really cool red and black hand dyed batiks and thought they would be perfect for these covers.

I never get tired of this color combination - it's so graphic and bold.
Gothic tattoo art, gothic clothes, gothic artchitecture, etc. have always caught my eye.
I guess I just have a dark side.
I think I will embrace that for a while.

You can check out my new gothic kindle covers and gothic nook covers at http://www.clevelandgirlie.etsy.com/

The Outer Banks in January.....

2012-01-09T19:50:00.001-05:00

Cold, Windy & Beautiful.

It was hard to keep Gizmo out of the water.
He kept chasing the seagulls and sandpipers and would just dive right in. Not minding the 40 degree temperatures one bit.

Toby, on the other hand, was content with sifting through the sand for crab "pieces" to snack on.

All in all - a spectacular day!

Pondering the Soul/Body Connection.....

2012-01-01T13:24:00.001-05:00

Spirituality, I believe,
is the absolute center
of a person. And that center is found in place that is so quite, so protected - it's sacred.

I am working on finding that place within myself.
It's a beautiful day in North Carolina. The windows are open and the house is quiet - with the exception of the song of the windchimes. I like that.

Happy New Year!

With 2012 Fast Approaching....

2011-12-29T13:06:00.001-05:00

I find myself reflecting
on what was the
second most difficult year
of my life.

It was full of sadness, emptiness, trials, tribulations, worries and a few wonders - each of which left me older, wiser and more aware of how precious every moment of every day is.

It is with this knowledge that I am going to rush forth into the New Year with a fresh perspective on life - no longer dwelling on what could be, what should be, or what isn't.

Instead, I'm going to
take a deep breath,
close my eyes, and
run directly into the wind.

I may or may not go it alone.
Bring it on 2012. I'm ready.

Sometimes Beauty Appears...

2011-12-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

where you least expect it.

Looking out the window.....

2011-12-26T11:10:00.000-05:00

...waiting for some snow. None is in the forecast yet - but I'm still waiting!

Regarding my little Christmas giveaway,

I put all the entries in a hat and

DOTTIE is the winner!

Dottie, please e-mail me your address and I will get your inspirational surprise right out. I will be here, waiting for your address!

In the meantime, I will be sifting and sorting and re-organizing my studio and my life. Something that I just "do" - this time of year.

I will also be cleaning up my blog as I plan on taking it in a bit of a new direction this next year. Some new things on the horizon that I am kind of excited about. It's been a while since I've been excited about anything.

Merry Christmas

and Happy New Year!!!

A Christmas Giveaway.....

2011-12-15T08:03:00.001-05:00

To celebrate the season,
Clevelandgirlie is having a drawing to giveaway something
beautiful and inspirational for Christmas.

Leave a comment on this post to let me know you were here, then, check back every few days as I will be posting the details soon.

I promise - it's something that will be sure to get those creative juices flowing!!!!

New Nook Covers and Kindle Covers added to Etsy Just in Time for Christmas!!

2011-12-14T20:16:00.000-05:00

Just listed some of my new Kindle, Nook and IPAD covers on my ETSY.

Made from beautiful batik fabrics and embellished with natural elements and metals, I think these are some of my nicest covers yet.

Holiday sewing has kept me pretty busy the last few months. I am still working on some last minute gifts for family and can't believe that Christmas is less than 2 weeks away!!

Oh Deer!!!

2011-10-23T18:11:00.000-04:00

Click on picture to see our visitors last night.

Autumn...

2011-10-16T16:51:00.003-04:00

.....My very soul is wedded to it,

and if I were a bird I would

fly about the earth

seeking the successive autumns.

- George Eliot

These are the colors in my yard today. Yes - I do wish I were a bird!
-Cathie

Studio Remodel & New Projects...

2011-09-25T16:35:00.039-04:00

Well Hello Autumn!

I can't tell you how happy I am to see you. It has been a long, difficult year for me (for us, for our family), but with the onset of colored leaves, the completion of our outdoor room and the anticipated arrival of cooler weather, comes the notion of peaceful days and healthier mind, body and soul.

This is going to be a bit of a catch up post.

A few months ago I moved my studio from a teeny tiny room downstairs to a larger space.

In between personal catastrophies and some "outdoor" renovations,

I have spent quite a bit of time purging, organizing and primping the space which has been painted and outfitted with some new shelving that I designed myself. The once cement floor has been covered with beautiful hardwood, the walls have been painted and "daylight" overhead lighting installed. I am in love!

Finally, the dust has settled and the studio is welcoming and tidy. No clutter here! Just a beautiful open space with lots of room to spread out, and a stack of WIPs (works in progress) just waiting to be addressed.

The machine I use.... the Janome Horizon - I love. My husband bought this for me for Christmas and with everything that has been going on around here I have barely had a chance to test drive it. That's gonna change right NOW!
I took it out of the case, attached the beautiful acrylic table and it's ready to go. Janome really does make superior sewing machines. This is my second Janome. I still have my first one and use it on the tough stuff like leather, plastic and copper. Which - by the way - it sews through like a champ.

I've spent a good part of today puttering around, and working on a pretty little batik quilt in ocean colors. I think I'm going to make about 30 blocks and sash them all in white with some intense free motion work in the white borders - at least that is the plan - for now.

It's been a nice quiet day - even though today it's hot and humid. A few more weeks and we should be firing up that fireplace on a daily basis.

Boy am I ready!

Oh Yeah!

We Dodged the Bullet...

2011-08-31T21:05:00.001-04:00

Hurricane Irene really did a number on the Outer Banks and surrounding areas. Houses destroyed, homes flooded, roads washed totally away.... but the Recca house, miraculously, escaped serious damage.

With the exception of a few inches of flood water encroaching our downstairs storage rooms, and major damage to the Pirate's Cove Marina and docks, we found our little beach house in tact. It took only a day and a half for us to clean up our mess. Sadly, many of our neighbors will be cleaning up for some time to come. But everyone is safe, and nothing in our neighborhood is beyond repair. In fact, it was quite inspiring to see our neighbors banding together, helping eachother, sharing and giving.

Thank you friends for all the comments, e-mails, thoughts and prayers. They were all very much appreciated, and helped more than you know.

Off to the Outer Banks....

2011-08-29T06:32:00.000-04:00

hopefully everything is as we left it.

Awaiting Word that We Can Return...

2011-08-28T08:29:00.000-04:00

...to see what damage we sustained. We were hoping to leave around 5 am this morning, however we were told that the roads are not opened yet.

Last week - THIS is what we were doing

Unfortunately, because Irene was destined to hit New York, coverage - even while the hurricane was pounding the Carolina Outer Banks - was focused on what the New Yorkers were doing for preparation, and NOT what was happening to our Outer Banks.

At this point, we don't have any idea what the damage to our marina and neighborhood is. All we've heard is that there was serious flooding in the area. Whether that was in Pirate's Cove or not - we do not yet know.

For the moment - we are on standby - waiting to head over.

Been Thinking of the Wild Horses...

2011-08-26T14:44:00.003-04:00

...on Corolla and Currituck on the Outer Banks all morning. They are so special and hold such an important key to the history of the Outer Banks.

We were just on Corolla a few weeks ago looking for them. Click here to read a bit about them.

I pray they find a safe hiding place.

Heading to the Outer Banks to Prepare for Hurricane Irene....

2011-08-24T11:07:00.000-04:00

We are headed over to the Outer Banks this afternoon to secure the house as best we can, and move the boat. We are concerned they will close the bridges sometime tomorrow or Friday for one way traffic to head out, so we want to make sure we can get "in" before they do that. Irene is expected to reach Category 3 by Saturday early morning. Category 3 hurricanes carry winds of 133-155 mph.

At this point, speculation is that Irene will hit Cape Hatteras and continue up the Outer Banks taking it right over our place (the red dot) Saturday sometime. We live right on the island surrounded by the Sound on the left, and the Atlantic Ocean on the right.

If the Outer Banks takes a direct hit of a Cat 3 hurricane I can't even begin to imagine the devastation. Living in Florida for 25 years, I've experienced my share of hurricanes (including Andrew,) and seen quite a bit of damage.

But while the houses in Florida are poured concrete or concrete block, the houses on the Outer Banks are wood frame, many cedar shingled, on stilts. They are oftentimes surrounded by water on both sides for the most part. I can't even begin to imagine the devastation that will occur not only to the structures, but to the Outer Banks (barrier islands) themselves.

Heading over to the Banks from Raleigh today, we can't dwell on the "what ifs." All we can do instead, is prepare the property and head to safety, returning Sunday or monday morning to see if the Outer Banks as we left it - still remains.

Be SAFE.

Happy Sunday!

2011-07-31T11:14:00.001-04:00

Modern Quilt Guild...

2011-07-27T15:17:00.002-04:00

There's this kind of cool "movement" going on in quilting - it's a push toward the modern aspect of colorplay and design. I've been following it for a while and I really, really like it.

I recently bought this book as the patterns contained within fit nicely into the modern genre of quilting. Gorgeous color paired with black, bold hues paired with white - lots powerful contrast - right up my alley. Super nice book with great designs and excellent instructions.

I've decided my next project is going to be a modern quilt for my new outside patio. We just had a stone fireplace built and ordered a cozy sectional for in front of it. I'd really like to have a nice quilt ready to cuddle under on those cold Autumn nights when the fireplace is lit. I'm in the color selection process right now. The furniture is chocolate brown wicker with winter white cushions - so basically- anything goes.

I've joined the Triangle Modern Quilt Guild, and re-newed my Capital Quilter's Guild membership so I'm looking forward to re-connecting with my muse over the cooler months, and getting back to my pursuit of creative endeavors. It's been a while.

In the meantime - we are still enjoying the Outer Banks. Just got back the other day from a 6 day visit. Took the corgis to the beach quite a bit and had a blast. One thing I love about the Outer Banks is that the water is still brisk (64 degrees) and really takes your breath away when you first dive in (although Toby doesn't seem to mind the cold water!)

I've noticed blogs are really quiet lately - so I am assuming everyone is enjoying the outdoors as much as I am. Even with the heat - I just can't stay inside - or I get cranky. And with only a few more weeks of summer left for the Reccas, I want to take advantage of every moment.

Hope you are enjoying your summer.

Who's Got Time for Anything Else!

2011-07-16T16:14:00.000-04:00

Fourth of July at the Outer Banks

2011-07-08T16:50:00.002-04:00

fourth of july - make slideshow

Taking a Deep Breath....

2011-06-27T18:41:00.000-04:00

THIS has become my new favorite place to sit in the morning. Our second floor porch off our bedroom looks to the West so it's sheltered from the blazing sun in the morning. The marsh is super active with hundreds of coastal birds, rabbits and other creatures all scampering about before the heat of the day. It's quite nice to sit and watch them.

The day started out hazy and breezy. I was anxious to go for the drive from Nags Head down to Cape Hatteras. I urged Blaise and/or Brina to come with me - but were busy doing other things and neither was thrilled at the notion of exploring with me. Sal wasn't here this past weekend - otherwise I know he would have come with me.

Wasn't sure if it was going to rain or not as I walked along the quiet, deserted beach of the Cape Hatteras Seashore. I love having the beach all to myself. Most of the time - the beach looks just like this - deserted and peaceful.

As the morning progressed however, the haze cleared and the sun came out,

The sky turned bright blue and the waves really picked up. The ocean became very active - as did the wind.

Eventually, I decided to drive a little further down the shore and came upon the Town of Rodanthe.

You may recognize this house as the setting for the movie, "Nights in Rodanthe" (based upon the book by Nicholas Sparks.) I was surprised to stumble upon it afew blocks from the ocean. Because if you remember the book or the movie - the house sat directly on the ocean. I found out after speaking to a local that this beautiful structure could no longer take the abuse of the Atlantic Ocean and a decision was made that it either had to be torn down - or moved away from the shoreline. It was moved a few blocks from the coast. Bittersweet.

I travel over this amazing bridge to cross the Oregon Inlet which is our inlet leading from the Banks to the Ocean. The view from the top of the bridge is one in a million and it is super windy up there - which I love.

It was a pleasant journey of solitude. I had the top on the car down, my favorite satellite radio 80's station on and the natural beauty of Outer Banks all to myself. Quite possibly - a perfect day.

Yaaaay! It's Summer!!!!

2011-06-09T10:26:00.000-04:00

Time for Gizmo to relax and slow waaaaaay down. I think today - a nap is in order, followed perhaps by a little boating later on.

Yes. Maybe later.

Happy 16th Birthday Little Girl!!!

2011-06-01T10:34:00.002-04:00

I took our girl to IHOP for breakfast this morning on her 16th birthday. It's tradition.

I had to take a picture of her - with her hot chocolate and a big 'ole smile. Sometimes when I look at her - it's like looking in a mirror when I was that age. My mother looked just like my grandmother - I look alot like my mother - and my daughter - she looks like us all. How cool.

Now - I know I've told you many times, "be careful," "always tell the truth," "work hard and study harder," "you are the company you keep," "who you are when nobody's looking is WHO you really are," I could go on and on with the bits of advice and words of "wisdom" I have tried to impart upon you. But instead of doing that - today, I'm going to tell you this:

Sabrina: I am so proud of the young lady you have become.

How you never change who you are to suit others, (no matter the pressure they place upon you to do so)

and how you never waiver from your principles and values,

no matter what the cost.

YOU my dearest girl, are and will continue to be a force to be reckoned with.

YOU are strong and good, determined and loyal, and so very innovative and creative.

YOU are valued, trusted, respected and loved. YOU are amazing.

Happy Birthday Sweet Sabrina! Enjoy this day as you begin the next phase of your what promises to be a rewarding and meaningful life.
- Momma

A Drop in the Ocean....

2011-05-28T06:46:00.007-04:00

There is something mysterious about seaglass. Pieces of broken dreams and memories - tumbled and massaged by the sea, sand and time into something magical.

"S E A" made from seaglass.

So pretty.

I'm a Mother.....

2011-05-08T09:04:00.010-04:00

and a I'd like to think - a darn good one - thanks to my Mom.

She taugh me how to be tough - yet gentle;
Strong - yet sensitive;
Persistent - yet patient;
Stern - yet flexible;
Serious - yet fun; and
Assertive - yet oh so responsive.

She taught me without "teaching" me. She taught me just by "being."
My mom taught me by being the smart, kind, gentle, tough, funny, loyal and amazing Daughter, Wife and Mother that she was and still is - for she forever lives in me.

My Great Grandma Mary,
My Gram, Wanda and my Mom

Happy Mother's Day Mom -

We all love and miss you so.

Thank you for making me who I am -

and through me, making Sabrina who

she will someday become.

"The Ocean is a Wilderness.....

2011-05-02T17:50:00.022-04:00

... reaching round the globe, wilder than a Belgian jungle, and fuller of monsters, washing the very wharves of our cities and the gardens of our sea-side residences. Serpents, bears, hyenas, tigers rapidly vanish as civilization advances, but the most populous and civilized city cannot scare a shark far from its wharves."

- Henry David Thoreau

I LOVE Thoreau. Sabrina pokes fun at me because I carry him with me wherever I go. She said to me once, "Mom - haven't you finished that book yet? You've been carrying it around with you for months." She doesn't realize yet (but she will) that if you like Thoreau, it is something you carry around with you all your life. You NEVER finish - for every time you pick it up, every page you turn - you get a better understanding, a deeper appreciation for all that is natural, pure and real. One day - she'll get that, I'm sure.

I am currently obsessed with the ocean. Our impending closing on the beach house is to blame, I know. But I can't help it. I spent the day Sunday painting a yard of PFD Kona cotton with every shade of blue I could find - dyes, Lumiere paint, acrylic paint and inks. No plan - just laying down colors. It felt good.

This morning I tore up a bunch of organza in similar shades to the paints that I used and free motioned a wave-like pattern over the top with some gorgeous vareigated cotton. After that I used a soldering iron and cut out between the waves. I liked the effect I was getting with that - but the melted organza kept gumming up on the iron, so I decided to finish the distressing process with a heat gun.

I am so pleased with how this came out. It really is lovely. I now have a yard of this gorgeous stuff and a ton of ideas as to what I'm going to do with it. The first piece I cut was for a Kindle 3 cover. I didn't have a pattern for this so I just made up my own. I added a sweet little antique bronze charm to it that is just perfect... "Dreaming of the Sea."

This is the first design in my new "Ocean" series of Kindle, IPAD and Nook covers. I've just listed it in my Etsy.

It now looks like the closing on the house may be moved up to this coming Monday. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. We are all getting anxious. I just need to keep busy.

The 2012 Sketchbook Project...

2011-04-30T18:45:00.001-04:00

I decided to sign up for the 2012 Sketchbook Project this year. I heard such great things about last year's project that I thought it would be fun to put this on my list of things to accomplish this year.

I selected the theme, "In Fifty Years." I'd love to hear from you if you are participating in the project this year. And, if you have never heard of it, or are interested - go check it out. It really is a cool thing to participate in. You can read all about it here. Last year over 28,000 artists from 94 countries participated. I happy to be a part of it this year.

Did some more fabric painting and dyeing today. It was a gorgeous day in North Carolina - perfect for drying painted and dyed fabrics out in the trees.

After hanging the last piece out to dry - Sabrina and I headed out to the Farmer's Market where I picked up some strawberries, turnips, fresh spicy radishes and some snap beans.

The market was packed - tons of people milling around the herb tables, the German bakery and the vegetable stands.

Tonight - off with my man on the Harley for a ride and a trip to Fresh Market to pick up some steaks for dinner. The perfect end to the perfect day.

Outer Banks Girlie (f/k/a Clevelandgirlie!)

2011-04-25T16:22:00.001-04:00

With two more years until we can finally relocate out West - we decided that life is too short to keep "waiting" for dreams to come true - so we took a leap and bought a beautiful place over on Roanoke Island at the Outer Banks or North Carolina. Close enough to get to in less than three hours - but yet - an "entire" world away.

Nestled between the natural beauty of the salt marshes and the Outer Banks, our new place is situate right in the middle of Nags Head and Cape Hateras National Seashore - where we can watch the sun rise over the ocean in the morning - and set over the salt marshes in the evening. And with fourwheeling on the beach, boating in the ocean and corgis in the sand - we will never be at a loss for things to do.

There truly is nothing more beautiful, more spiritual, more inspiring - than the Outer Banks at sunrise, or sunset, or during a thunderstorm. (Except for maybe the Rocky or Sawtooth Mountains at sunset.)

We just received the signed contract back today - and with a three week closing date there is much to do in a short time. I'm guessing the next month will be a whirlwind of activity. Not like that's anything unusual. Bring it on!

But for today.... after having spent a lovely four day weekend with my husband's family - I have managed to squirrel away a little time in the studio.

I think I will do some painting - on a piece of Egyptian cotton I purchased a while back that I have been saving - setting the stage for some stitching later on. I'm in the mood to paint sunsets for some reason - oranges, pinks, purples. Yes - a sunset. An Outer Banks Sunset. My very own - Carolina Outer Banks Sunset - YOU and I are going to get to know eachother very, very well.

It is, what it is....

2011-04-13T09:03:00.003-04:00

I found that on The Daily Corgi on Facebook. The Daily Corgi also has a blog - and is one of my favorite stops in the morning as it always makes me smile!

Front Load Washers & Homespuns or Hand Dyes - NOT GOOD!

2011-03-31T15:12:00.009-04:00

Blue Kindle 3 Cover

(Gorgeous new fabric line of hand dyes in aqua, teal and Mediterranean blue. Also comes in magenta, red and purple. Couldn't resist making Kindle covers out of these.)

I had a nightmare for a time surrounding my new front load washer. I have never had a problem with fabrics bleeding as I am meticulous about washing fabrics before I work with them - particularly homespuns.

However I learned a valuable lesson this past week that I'd like to pass along.

While all the fabrics I was working with were pre-washed, I had a blue nightmare when I washed the tops for the two baby quilts I have been working on. Because front loaders are particularly "water" efficient - they use very little water. And although all fabrics had been prewashed - the blue dye in the homespuns still bled out (as expected) - HOWEVER.... due to the lack of water volume in my front loader, decided to redeposit into the white fabric centering the nine patch blocks I used, as well as the white border. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?????

Peace Sign Market Tote

I have made these same quilts at least 3 or 4 times with absolutely no problem (using my old top load tub washer). I was shocked and horrified. All of those hours upon hours of piecing and quilting. Sheesh. NOT a good week. But with lessons learned and a fresh outlook unearthed - it's time to forge on. At first I had sworn never to make another homespun quilt again - but I just can't do that as the liquidity of those fabrics make for the most delicious quilts. One bad (scratch that.... HORRIBLE) experience can not destroy the love I have for homespuns. We just have to re-evaluate our relationship - and reassert that I am the BOSS and I will not be defeated. End of story.

NOTE TO SELF: Hand wash quilts made with homespuns in a tub FULL of cold water (at least twice) prior to washing in the machine - in SYNTHRAPOL.

UPDATE: Thank you to all of those who commented with suggestions and sympathy! Since posting this piece, I have ordered THREE containers of Synthrapol!

Blackbird Singing in the Dead of Night...

2011-03-26T17:39:00.000-04:00

Take these broken
wings and learn
to fly
All your life,
YOU were only waiting
for this moment
to arise.

Sail Away......

2011-03-24T10:48:00.002-04:00

In a Sea
of Blue....

Once again I find myself surround by a sea of blues and greens - both nautical baby quilts - one a sailboat and one a whale. I so love working on these nautical baby quilts. The colors are gorgeous and I love working with homespun linens. They are very "liquid" and have such a lovely hand to them. Nautical baby items are very in right now and I can't keep these in the shop. If interested, you can click here to see any that are available in my Etsy shop.

Quality tools really make a difference when working in the studio. I treasure (and so appreciate) my "good" shears, sharp silk pins and super thin, durable european needles. I really do. They make stitching such a pleasure. I don't indulge in frivolous items very often - but as afterthought - I picked up this charming handmade pin cushion at the Mid-Atlantic. It's got a little needled sharpener on top made with an acorn cap and the body of the cushion is filled with some type of shaved and dried conifer bark - it smells so good. It's constructed with upholstery scraps and is really very cute and durable. I could have probably made something like this myself - but who's got the time. I also bought the little needle vile up in the top picture (yellow and blue) at that show. Love that, too! Also, very useful.

What's on your worktable today? On mine - two baby quilts, three bookstyle Kindle Covers, two envelope style Kindle covers, my Sketchbook and some bits of hand dyed wool. It should be a productive weekend!

Next weekend we are heading out for our first boating trip of the season to the Outer Banks - no matter what the weather.... we're going!

Book Style Kindle & Nook Covers and TWO Commissioned Baby Quilts.....

2011-03-16T13:03:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy few weeks in the studio! Finally found some time in the studio over the last few weeks - which is a good thing because I needed to finish up 5 special order Kindle & Nook Covers, and get started on TWO commissioned nautical baby quilts. Both of which are due the first week in April.

I'm really excited about my new line of Kindle & Nook Covers - that are now in book format with a pocket inside and feature a one of a kind art square on the cover. So cool. I have been working on creating a pattern that I liked with just the right amount of protection - without bulk squares are featured nicely on the tab. I have been on a buying frenzy - searching out bold summery batiks and embellishments for these covers - to make them unique and special. I have my K2 in one of them right now. My K3 is in a leather cover chillin inside of one of my tooled leather look envelope covers. Click HERE to see covers just listed.

What's on your worktable today? Aside from my comissioned baby quilts - I have my Studio Journal on mine. I had signed up for Sharon B's Studio Journal class and while I have read all of the Lessons cover to cover, organized the supplies and sketched out a few pages - I have not had any spare time to devote to the class until now. Today I plan on working a bit on my journal in between rows of aqua marine patchwork!

Gizmo......

2011-03-14T05:58:00.000-04:00

....is very possessive of HIS Jeep.

Belated Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-16T14:44:00.005-05:00

I'm Seeing RED...

2011-02-13T19:00:00.003-05:00

In honor of the Day of Love I decided to start working on a red homespun and linen patchwork. Lots of Red (lots of threads! homespuns always throw alot of thread when you're working with them) and ooooh so soft.

Homespuns are among my favorite fabrics to work with. Something about the way they smell when you iron them, and the way they feel under my fingers when I'm stitching. So nice.

Oh - and here's my journal for my Studio Journal's workshop that starts Tuesday. I hope to fill it up with lots of cool stuff.

Happy Valentine's Day.
Now go and kiss your sweetie!

Studio Journals: A Designer's Workhorse...

2011-02-10T17:21:00.002-05:00

Such a beautiful day today in North Carolina. We woke up to a tiny dusting of snow

and Carolina Blue skies. A crisp, picture perfect day. A good day to get up early, get some chores done and venture down in to the studio I have missed so much over the last few months.

Studio Journals: the "Designer's Workhorse." That is the name of the new workshop I'm participating in - taught by Sharon B. and my "jumping off point" for 2011. I'm looking forward it begining on February 15th and will be blogging about my progress.

I'm thinking of making a journal like this one I made a while back. I loved how this came out, but I'm not sure if I may want a hardbound spiral journal - for ease of access. I'll have to think about it. I think I may also want a journal that's a bit larger so there's plenty of room for samples, etc. I can still paint the cover if I want to. I need to decide quick as the workshop starts Tuesday.

I've decided to head up to Virginia in a few weeks to attend the Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival. I haven't been in a few years and I really enjoy going to that. Personally seeing work that I've admired in books and magazines up close - those fine details lost in photographs - and mingling with other artists I've met through blogging and workshops is such a source of inspiration. I've planned a three day road trip which will take me there and back with a day and a half for the show. A little breathing room. Some time to think. I think I'll like that.

I've missed being in the studio and am happy to be back. I spent a good part of the day in there today for the first time since November. Lights on, new machine plugged in, music playing, a yogurt satiated Gizmo at my feet. It felt good.

Would love (as always) to hear what your 2011 creative plans are. A studio journal? A studio remake? Maybe going in another artistic direction? No hard and fast resolutions for me this year. I've decided to take it easy on myself in 2011.

This year I'm just going to take my time. Appreciate my time. And make the most of my time. It's good to be back.

I greeted 2011...

2011-01-22T07:51:00.000-05:00

with a heart heavy in sadness. No blogging for months really. I have not had much to say as I have been at a loss for words, a loss for joy, a loss for all things that used to lift my spirits and make me happy.

The pain will metamorphasize from being constant and all consuming -- to lying in wait making itself known when laying eyes upon certain photographs, particular books, or the landscape of the sea - for all those things will forever remind me of you.
I need to get back to my life - to find happines in the things I once enjoyed. To realize that although there is now an even bigger whole in my life, in my heart - I still have life to live with people that I love and who love me back. And that finding things to laugh and smile about again - is what you would want for me.

I love you both so much. You made me who I am.

Tonight, I Think I'll..

2010-12-31T15:43:00.000-05:00

...take time to reflect upon all of the special times
shared with the people
I love so much.

Those whom I can still hug -
and those I no longer can.

It is my Wish for YOU - that 2011 brings you JOY for you Spirit, PEACE for your Soul, and LOVE for your Heart.

Happy New Year.

Guess What We Did Today!!!!!!

2010-12-26T16:58:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to YOU....

2010-12-23T09:20:00.001-05:00

We are nearing completion of all the chores that one must do before the Eve of Christmas. And whilest Gizmo is hanging the last stocking, I am reflecting on Christmases past.

I do hope this Christmas brings you much LOVE of Family, JOY in the Season,

and DREAMS for the Future.

Merry Christmas Friends! XO

Mom and Daddy, I miss you so.

A FRESH New Quilt...

2010-11-05T11:14:00.004-04:00

MUMS are in full bloom....

There's a slight CHILL in the air....

It's the time of year to SNUGGLE with someone you love.

I love this quilt, it was such a pleasure to make. I love working with these colors - black, white and red, the polka dots and the red quilting around the edge - not to mention the mod stripe down the back. So bold, so fresh. A perfect blanket to snuggle under while enjoying a crisp, Autumn Day!

The Recca House comes alive this time of year. The windows are open, the leaves are blowing - and yes - begining to fall just a bit. But we have alot more color to change before it's all said and done. My mums are exploding with color - all the work of keeping them trimmed all summer has really paid off. Our house looks spectacular from the street - and will look even better after this weekend. We're cleaning up and getting ready to put up the holiday decorations. Should be a fun weekend.

Whatever you do - whoever you do it with - ENJOY!

Use What Talents You Possess;

2010-10-23T17:47:00.001-04:00

the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best. Henry Van Dyke

Words to ponder - particularly for artists. Who among us doesn't hesitate with their brush or their needle for fear of failure or a less than perfect result?

We are all guilty of this. Particularly me. I am forever hesitating - and worse yet, thinking too much about the result and not freeing myself up for the process.

I went to the Durham Orange Quilt Guild 2010 Show, "A Thread Runs Through It." Unbelievable, spectacular talent I witnessed today. I took hundreds of pictures and took pages of notes on style, technique and process. Brought back with me some wonderful ideas - tons of inspiration. I'll download the pictures this weekend - there are quite a few I want to share with you.

This little blue bird is one I did a while ago. I like him.

Sometimes.....

2010-10-14T12:44:00.000-04:00

..... you've just gotta GO AFTER what you want.

Out of Control....

2010-10-10T09:25:00.000-04:00

The harder I try,
the worse it gets.

So why try at all?

Will I ever learn?

I can see the light.
I just need to crawl
out to meet it.

Can You Say, Zig Zag Stitch???

2010-09-24T09:48:00.000-04:00

Photo Friday today - as I just can't resist capturing some of that "Autumnal Change" I was speaking of earlier. It seems nature is very busy this morning - preparing.

Me - I think I'll just sit back and watch.

Make sure to take some time to step outside

and appreciate YOUR world.

Meet Me on the Equinox...

2010-09-23T10:22:00.002-04:00

September equinox, autumnal equinox, autumn equinox, say goodbye to summer and hello to the shorter days and crisp cool weather.

I find this time of year magical. Mesmerized by the giant moon at night - and the hot pink sun in the morning I long for the cool crisp breeze and the scent of leaf burning laden air. I anxiously await the metamorphisis that shorter days and cooler nights brings to the beauty of North Carolina.

(Meet Me on the Equinox - Death Cab for Cutie)

Weaving a Cloth...

2010-09-17T16:55:00.004-04:00

I had a little time today so I decided to work on my first cloth weaving project for Jude's Cloth 2 Cloth Workshop. I spent about 1/2 hour tearing up strips of neutrals - canvas, linen, sheers, cottons, silks and some commercial cottons.

The first cloth I wove was a neutral cloth. I laid the strips out so nicely, tacking each one at each end with pins - in an effort to keep them nice and tidy. I then began weaving - back and forth, back and forth until I completed about a 13x13 inch square. Then - it hit me.

What an IDIOT. I tacked the weaving down on my paded grid ironing surface - BUT I FORGOT TO PUT A PIECE OF BACKING DOWN FIRST. Geeeze. Not the end of the world - but way to make things more difficult for myself (a habit I have.)

I laid a muslin square over top of the woven piece and commenced to hand tack it. Problem solved. Over the next few days, I am going to make a few more of these so I'm ready to whatever comes next and have a few choices as far as foundation cloth colors, textures, etc.

NOTE TO SELF: Next time - don't forget to lay the base down FIRST - THEN weave on top of that.

Indian Summer - Quilted

2010-09-15T10:36:00.029-04:00

I thoroughly enjoyed working on this little quilt. It started off as an "experiment" in response to my own desire to try a Mod quilt. I am absolutely enamored by the tension created between stark white and bold vivid colors. And what better combination that the colors I visualize as representing a delicious Indian Summer and bright, crisp, winter white!!

I made a bunch of improv log cabin blocks with utilizing a stack of warm orange, red, magenta and yellow blended hand dyes, batiks and homespuns I had lying around. After playing with designs, I decided to make those into four patches spaced with 6 inch solid white blocks within which I quilted a tribal sun. Spending alot of time in Arizona and New Mexico I have come to understand the symbolism of the sun as an icon and sincerely appreciate the beauty in that thought. I really enjoyed quilting the suns free form. They look so great!

Something I find interesting about many modern quilts is the backing. Oftentimes there some kind of visual "pop" on the back. For Indian Summer, I pieced together a long strip of the fabrics I used in the log cabins and sewed it down the middle. I also randomly placed a color block here and there in the binding.

This week I'm going to focus on the new Spirit Cloth workshop I'm participating in "Cloth to Cloth." I'm looking forward to learning Jude's technique for creating a base layer cloth by weaving it myself. I am excited to pick up a needle and thread again after spending so much time with the machine lately. Should be a delicious reprieve

Baby Whale Quilt Nearly Done...

2010-09-06T07:45:00.005-04:00

THIS QUILT IS LISTED ON ETSY.CLICK HERE

Took the Harley out with the man yesterday. It was an absolutely gorgeous day in North Carlolina. Temps only in the 50's when we left. We drove down to Pope Air Force Base on beautiful country roads, up to Chapel Hill, then back down to Raleigh. About a 6 hour road trip. It's been almost two months since we've taken a decent ride - our last ride being our Montana trip.

I worked most of the rest of the day on a commission quilt - that is almost complete. I am so in love with these homespuns. After I started this quilt last week I went out and bought more as my supply is running low. They are rather hard to find in this area - particularly in these beautiful blue shades (they remind me of Glacier Lake in Montana) - but I found a shop that carries about 20 different blends of color and they are really, really pretty.

This morning I made the bias binding and all that is left is to sew it on by hand and add the water spout to the little whale on the back. Then I can pack it up and send it off to the little guy who will soon be snuggling beneath it.

Sometime today I will be taking a studio break to take Sabrina to the sporting goods store to shop for Lacrosse equipment. We're not even done with tennis yet.

Next up: complete the quilting on Indian Summer Quilt, complete the commissioned tote bags, work on my art journal and paint some gift tags.

Hope you get outside today and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine!

Indian Summer Quilt.....

2010-09-03T09:25:00.010-04:00

I have a three commissions I am currently working on - all which need to go out by next week. I love being this busy in the studio. It's so exciting to work with clients on a piece that they have designed and want to see come to fruition, or to custom design a piece for them according to their specifications. Really rewarding and so fun.

I finished a few Kindle covers over the weekend - two special orders and two others. I love this one and just may keep it for myself. Kaffe fabric with a really cool fused glass button - such a pretty combination.

Monday I got this quilt all pinned and ready to quilt- but have to put it on hold until I get the commissions out. It took me three days to decide upon a quilting pattern. Rather than a grid or meander, I've decided to quilt individual tribal suns in the large white blocks. I did a few last night - and it looks awesome. I'll post pics when it's done. I just made these blocks for fun (improvisational log cabins - mod style) not knowing what I was going to do with them. I ended up having enough for a pretty decent sized quilt (50+") Click HERE to purchase this quilt on my Etsy.

I've also seen some mod quilts with color on the back and I really like that - so on this one I pieced a three inch strip for the back of representative fabrics from the front. It runs down the middle - pretty.

I'm working all day on a smaller version of the whale quilt I put on Etsy over the weekend as a special order. I love working with these aqua homespuns - they make me happy! I'll post a picture of my progress on that one this evening as I promised the gal who purchased it some photos - so they will be up tonight.

Enjoy the day! I swear I feel Fall coming - I really do. It hasn't been as humid and I've even notice a few leaves dropping (from exhaustion!) Cool Weather - Bring it ON!

Well Hello Sewing Machine... How Have You Been???

2010-08-29T19:24:00.009-04:00

Oh the grand plans I had for the summer - finishing about a dozen WIPs, cleaning closets, cupboards, pantries, windows, etc.,travel out west, travel to the Keys, lose at least 5 pounds, etc., etc., I'm proud to say I did every single thing on my list - with the exception of one thing - and that was finish ANY WIPs. I basically did not step one foot into the studio this entire summer.

But alas, summer fades to fall and Brina is back to school (sniff, sniif - I always have an empty heart when she does) and with a spotlessly clean homstead (both inside and out) I have begun to ready myself for the holiday sewing frenzy that approaches every year about this time.

Yesterday I visited two of my favorite haunts to stock up on Autumn and Winter fabrics - batiks, Christmas prints, hand dyes, thread, perle cotton, papers, etc. So fun! For the next week or so I will be sketching out a "to do" list and a few designs. I did finish this nautical quilt and a few little stuffies.

I've also signed up for Jude's "Cloth to Cloth" workshop which starts on September 15th - can't wait for that.

Next up is quilting this last top. I've bordered it with a gorgeous hombre and am backing it with white linen. So pretty.

Would love to hear what you've got on the design wall, easle, work table or desk!

The BEST Birthday Present EVER!!!

2010-08-12T17:00:00.000-04:00

Sabrina, Lindsay & Salvatore

I LOVE LOVE LOVE You Guys!

To Key West & Back! July 2010

2010-07-31T21:20:00.001-04:00

What a great trip! We drove from NC all the way to Key West and back to visit my dad. Such a beautiful, relaxing week. Lots of quality family time - just what we needed. A little boating, a little swimming, a little sunning - lots of laughing, relaxing and pondering.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Ugly Dried Avocado Peel + Silk, Scrim, Cotton and Linen

2010-07-23T19:31:00.000-04:00

Equals PINK!

If I didn't see it -
I wouldn't have believed it.

I've been reading about natural dyeing on quite a few blogs. The avocado dyeing seems to work for some - and not for others.

It worked for ME. So pretty!

Now I have some vintage pink coolness to use in my workshop pieces.

Next: Blackberry dye + voile, silk dupioni and cheese cloth.

Have I mentioned - Gizmo loves blackberries (and cheese!)

BUTTON LUST!

2010-07-22T13:30:00.002-04:00

Is there such a thing??
Oh I do believe there is.
And I am afflicted!

I don't know when it happened - maybe when I was a little girl and used to sit under the big tree in our backyard in Ohio - with my mom's huge button tin, stringing them together for hours and hours - making necklaces (that she would always excitedly wear) and bracelets and yes - the long, long record breaking strands of glass buttons, metal buttons, leather buttons, and wood buttons (very few plastic back then.) Oh how I loved them.

I've recently felt the yearning again to touch buttons as they have found their way into some of the things I have been making - not for purpose - but simply for their aesthetic quality and beauty. They have the coolest buttons now - in beautiful colors, textures and shapes. I picked these up recently on a trip to buy some canvas for a project I'm working on. I couldn't resist. I am particuarly enamored with the large purple one and know exactly what I'm going to do with.

I salvaged my Mom's button tin a few years ago. The day after her funeral, while going through some things, I found it in a closet in my parents' home. I immediately reached for it and put it in my suitcase to bring home. It was the only thing I took that day. The only thing that at the time - mattered. I never add new buttons to that box. I leave it containing only it's original, authentic contents. Buttons "she" had placed in there. That button box remains my most treasured possession. It sits here beside me in my studio - where I can see it - and remember. My new buttons - well they have their own place in my studio - in a pretty glass fish bowl on the other side of the room on the shelves. Maybe one day Sabrina will have my button fish bowl - where she can see it - in her studio.

Rock Lobster!

2010-07-19T17:15:00.001-04:00

Oh the possibilities -- patchwork beasts! How fun they are to make.

Can a Lobster become a Patchwork Beast???

2010-07-17T20:16:00.003-04:00

Jude's (Spirit Cloth) Patchwork Beasts workshop started yesterday.

I'm wondering.....

is a Lobster considered a Beast???

In MY ocean he is!

Pondering Textures & Patterns Found in Nature...

2010-07-14T14:26:00.003-04:00

In the soft fur of grizzlies....

In the rough bark of the trees....

In the random puffy display of the clouds

In the colorful organisms growing on volcanic rocks

and my favorite..... the dancing of the light refraction and ripples of the water in Glacier Lake pools.

Texture and Patterns are everywhere. Why am I just begining to really (really) notice these things? Oh what have I missed.

(Montana/Idaho/Wyoming/Utah 2010 trip)

Heat Distressing Textiles...

2010-07-11T19:20:00.006-04:00

After spending an entire day Friday (from about 7 am ntil a wee bit after midnight) - cleaning the studio ,closets, drawers, cabinets, scrubbing work surfaces and floor, I decided to kick back today.

I've been wanting to make some distressed textile surfaces for stitching, so that was the plan for today.

This is just one of several pieces I made today. I also experimented by making a sepia and vintage color surface and a jewel toned distressed textile.

On this particular piece (all three pictures are of the same piece,)   I
used two colors of thread - a deep plum on one side and a variegated blue on the other. I definitely like the plum thread more. The lighter thread calls too much attention to the stitching, take a backseat.  I may have to do something about that - maybe lay some color overtop of the thread.

It  was a nice day with much success. I always enjoy doing these types of projects.

Now I've got to show you my nice tidy little studio - it looks so nice and fresh...

Oh I do love working in here when it looks like this!

It really cleans up so nice.
I think it's the light colors.

A place for EVERYTHING.....

And EVERYTHING in it's Place!

Sabi-wabi.
Yes!

Gizmo's had a rough year...

2010-07-10T22:46:00.000-04:00

Even epillepsy and a near death experience from eating a gum tree seed pod (geeze!) can't keep this guy from smiling!!!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Silence is the absolute poise or balance of body, mind and spirit....

2010-07-09T07:57:00.001-04:00

(Glacier, Montana - 2010)

...The man who preserves his selfhood is ever calm and unshaken by the storms of existence ... What are the fruits of silence? They are self-control, true courage or endurance, patience, dignity and reverence. Silence is the cornerstone of character.

(Ohiyesa, Wahpeton Santee Sioux)

Patchwork Beasts....

2010-07-04T11:43:00.018-04:00

Am pretty psyched about participating in Jude's patchwork beasts workshop.

I can't wait to transform some of my favorite beings and non-beings,(bears, corgis and whatever!) into fabric. Can't you just see Gizmo as a patchwork beast??

Or how about some of the grizzlies and black bears I saw in Montana? Perfect.

This is going to be quite an adventure. The workshop begins on July 15th. It will be great fun to follow along with the "traveling companions: on their blogs - while we take this journey together.

Today - I'm looking forward to spending some time in the art cave. It seems like weeks since I've been in there. So while my husband is bbq-ing, my daughter is getting ready to go back to UNCSA tomorrow and the corgis are (what else..) sleeping - I will be doing something with maybe my journal, or my trip photographs.

Something that makes my heart happy. Looking at this picture I took in Glacier, Montana where I was a week ago today - makes my heart happy.

Do something that makes YOUR HEART HAPPY today.

(photo of patchwork beasts pictured, taken from Spiritcloth with Jude's permission.)

Regard Heaven as Your Father...

2010-07-02T11:05:00.003-04:00

Earth as your Mother

and all things as your Brothers and Sisters.

- Tribe Unknown

(Idaho - June 2010)

I wish I could say it's good to be home - but it's not. Not really.

And The Winner of the Hand Stitched Bird is....

2010-07-01T20:34:00.000-04:00

Carol!!! Yay!

Please e-mail me with your addy and I'll get it out to you Monday - after I put on a few more finishing touches!

Hand Stitched Bird Giveaway: Keep Those Summer Memories Coming....

2010-06-22T09:08:00.000-04:00

I am so enjoying reading your summer memories. Keep them coming to be entered in the giveaway for my little hand stitched bird + summer themed stash goodies (fabric, fibers, buttons and a hand made inchie) giveaway.

Please tell us about YOUR memories in the post below to be entered in the giveaway.

No studio work for the next week as we are busy doing chores in and around the house. Lots of painting, landscaping and general maintenance work.

Have a great week and tune in July 1st when I announce the winner!

GIVEAWAY: This Birdie Needs a New Home

2010-06-21T03:30:00.000-04:00

I've been working on these birds for a while now and I've got this guy almost finished. All there is left to do is a dd a few more stitches and attach the string of beads I made for the hanger.

HERE'S THE DEAL: I'm taking a bloggy break for about 10 days so I can get Sabrina over to UNC and get a few things done around the house. So - for the next ten days I want to hear from you....

Leave me comment discussing YOUR favorite SUMMER MEMORY (details - I want details!) and I will enter your name into the drawing to win this gorgeous little birdie. On July 1st, I will put all names into a bucket and pull the winner.

In addition to the birdie, the winner will also get a selection of summery fabric cuts, and a few random bits of deliciousness from my stash.

Let's hear some juicy stories!!! On July 1st I'll post the winner. Good Luck!!

Question: Do CORGIS Love the Beach???

2010-06-18T11:45:00.000-04:00

Oh YES.......

They LOVE the Waves....

and the Water....

and the Sand.....

Oh and did I mention the Water???

1,2,3 Like a Bird I Sing...

2010-06-15T13:24:00.002-04:00

'Cause you've given me the most beautiful set of wings!!!

I don't know what the deal is - but I just can't manage to "sit still" long enough to do anything productive. I've been working on these dang birdies forever it seems. They were supposed to be done two weeks ago and I'm still sewing on wings! I did have to re-do them because I did not stuff them firm enough. Really firm stuffing makes all the difference in the quality. THESE BIRDIES ARE FIRM!!

I AM going to give one away - I haven't forgotten. I just need to finish it first. And because of the delay, I'm gonna add a few goodies to the prize! Giveaway will be posted Saturday night.

Besides that, life is - well, continuing. I'm finding myself in one of those "valleys" right now. Just gonna leave it at that. Hope you're enjoying "peaks" and that YOUR muse is singing!

"I'm so glad that you're here today,
'Cause tomorrow I might have to go
and fly away....... fly away......."

I "Heart" My Bike......

2010-06-07T16:45:00.000-04:00

My bike and I have had a rocky relationship this past year. It was love at first sight. I'm not sure what happened between us. We get together... we break up. We try it again - and something happens and we split up again. It's been rough.

But I'm happy to say - we've found eachother again - and so far.... so good. Our first four miles today were beautiful. Just my bike.... me..... and the hills. It was wonderful. Like our first time.

Can we try again? I think this time I'm ready to go the distance with you, bicycle. Do you feel the same???

Birdie Carnage.....

2010-06-01T20:31:00.000-04:00

Still stitching up birdies. I know I said Tuesday - but I'm still working on stitching, beading, embellishing. I want them all to be done (all 7) before I have my little giveaway.

Got a wee bit side-tracked with a birthday for our girl today (Sabrina turned 15) and my son's heading off to the coast to go to college and loading up the moving van today. Sheesh! Should be ready by the weekend - so keep watch for the birdie giveaway, K?

Gothic Baby Quilt for sale in Etsy

2010-05-28T15:17:00.007-04:00

SKULLS (Click HERE to my Etsy Shop to purchase this quilt)

Fresh and Modern.

Black, white and red has always been a striking combination to me and although this baby quilt does have a "gothic" element to it, it's also really cute. I added a black and white polkadot binding which I love. Washing it in hot water really made the fabric tuck up into the stitches of the quilting - setting it off quite nicely. I really like how the quilting came out on this one. My Janome machine is the BEST.

BIRDIES

Also on the table this long weekend are some cool birdies that I've cut out some great bold fabrics. Birdies are turning up everywhere - and I love them. So I decided to make a few just for fun. I vaguely remember seeing a pattern in one of my quilting magazines for a blackbird that had a beaded hanger. I'm replicating this from memory. I wish I could find the pattern - but I have about 50 quilting magazines I've saved and don't feel like sifting through them so I'm improvising.

PUPPIES My son is getting ready to head over to the house he is renting (1 block from the beach on Oak Island) in order to start college in the fall. Guess who's going with him??? Yep - Harley (the little black and white sheltie/australian shepard mix). We had the son (and his girlfriend, Lindsay) and the two pups for dinner last night and with Tobie and Gizmo in the mix - Puppy Palooza!

Because Sabrina has exams next week and then a week or so after that we are all heading in different directions of the country - we're hanging around the house this weekend. Be sure to check back Tuesday as I'm going to have a giveaway for one of the birdies that I'm putting together.

Happy Memorial Day!

Gothic Baby Quilt (??) & Book/Kindle Covers ...

2010-05-17T08:24:00.020-04:00

Had some quality studio time this weekend. With chores (both inside and outside) all done by Friday night - I had an entire day to wander about doing what I please.

I've been doing alot of cutting and piecing of my modern quilt blocks the last few weeks so I decided to take a break from that and did some free motion quilting on my little gothic baby quilt. I'm actually getting the hang of free motion work. (click to enlarge quilting pictures) On this particular quilt I'm doing heart shadows (4 deep) and swirls in the plain white blocks and will probably ditch quilt the gothic blocks.

I finished the quilting yesterday and am going to start piecing a red, white and black polkadot binding which I think will frame it nicely. I've had a few e-mails from my Etsy shop(s) asking for gothic baby items, so with this one I gave it a try. Those two words "gothic" and "baby" just don't seem to go together in my mind - but in the spirit of the challenge, I used some of the fabric I made Blaise's Harley quilt and cut it up pretty small. It's actually cute

(Click HERE to go to Clevelandgirlie's Etsy shop Kindle and Nook Cover Department! )I also drew up a pattern to make myself a Kindle cover and a large book cover to protect my Kindle and hardcover books I tote around with me in my purse, car and beach bag. (It makes me crazy when my books get damaged!) Once I started making these - I couldn't stop. I made some for Sabrina, some for gifts and a few for my Etsy shop. They are so cute and work really well. Sabrina also likes to carry around magazines with her in her tote bag and with the price of things like Cloth Paper Scissors and Artful Blogger she likes to keep them nice - so I made her a magazine cover that she can fit two or three publications in and then throw them into her art bag or tote. They really serve the purpose (and look cute!)

Today I've planned a massive clean-up as I've made quite a mess in the studio! Hey - has anyone started on Christmas items yet? I went to my favorite textile shop this weekend and they've gotten a whole bunch of Chrismtas fabric in already. What's everyone working on?

Happy Mother's Day ...

2010-05-09T07:07:00.001-04:00

Dear Mom.....

My family is so lucky that I had you for a Mother - because it is by your example that I have been shaped to be the Mother that I am. You taught me when to go easy, but when to be firm. When to scold, but when to laugh. When to help, and when to step back. You bestowed upon me patience, virtue, kindness and nurturing - not by "teaching" but by showing. Most of all Mom, you gave me unconditional love every minute of every day - and that is the most precious gift that a mother can give of herself.

It is my deepest wish that my life honors you and all you have done for our family by being the best parent I can be to Sal and Sabrina. That I teach them -- the lessons you taught me. And that I instill in them - the wisdom, patience and kindness that you instilled in me. Like me, they miss you every day - and talking about special times we've shared with you can be bittersweet -- as it fills our hearts with deep sadness and joy.

So on this Mother's Day, I hope you know I love you Mom - we all love you. But I love you most -- for all that you have been and all that you continue to be -- in me. I miss you so.

Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms.
We ONLY get one shot at this....
Let's Do It RIGHT!

READ MY LIPS.....I Will NOT Camp in Grizzly Country!

2010-05-04T18:52:00.047-04:00

Early this summer - Sabrina is off to University of North Carolina School of the Arts for a month where she has been accepted into the Visual Arts Program. Quite an honor for a 15 year old. That gives Blaise and I a month with NO KIDS. WHAT?????? No kids???? Do corgis count as kids?? Well, not exactly, but family is staying at the house to watch the furry kids so Blaise and I can hit the open road in search of our next homestead which we plan on moving to when Sabrina is done with High School.

We are going fly from Raleigh

to Salt Lake City to rent
a car (thank you airline miles!)

drive from Salt Lake to Southern Idaho (Idaho Falls to be exact) to pick up a Harley Davidson

Tour up through Idaho and over to Montana

Down through Montana into

Wyoming

Drive from the top of Wyoming to the bottom, down through Yellowstone Country finally......

crossing back to Idaho to return the Harley, pick up the car, drive back to Salt Lake and fly home.

We've been to all of those places many times - but never on the same trip and NEVER on a motorcycle. We typically go to Utah, Colorado, the Dakotas and maybe Nebraska on the motorcycle - so this will be a first for us to go up into the extreme terrains on a bike. I am so excited I can hardly stand it!

My husband has been putting the pressure on me to do some camping up in Northern Montana while we're there - but being an avid fan of Animal Planet's show, "Grizzly Encounters" and huge fan of Brutus (who we're going to see while we're there by the way) - there is no $&#*@&$#$& way I'm camping in grizzly country. We've camped in Colorado, Utah, Arizona - and all we've had to worry about (I use the word "all" reluctantly) are, rattle snakes, coyotes, wolves and brown and black bears. But Grizzly country - THAT'S where I draw the line mister. No way - no how. End of Story.

Oh, and by the way - the mod quilt I'm working on is coming right along. So fresh and pretty. I love the bold color blocks that I have now put up on the design wall with stark white plain blocks in between. I have many more blocks to make. To be continued...

Scenic Sunday...

2010-05-02T11:12:00.057-04:00

It's a beautiful weekend here in North Carolina.

The Open Road
is Calling....
I did plan on doing some cleaning today ..... but I think it can wait! No -- scratch that.

I KNOW it's going to wait!

I'd rather go for a ride in the country.

Maybe up into Virginia.

Just me, my man, the hills,
the water and the sky.

The car?

I DON'T think so.

I want to feel the sun on my back... and the wind in my face. I want to smell the freshly churned fields and early Spring gass - and I want to feel heavy air as the storm from the west approaches.

No - the car is NOT an option. Not today.
It's time to hit the OPEN road. And for us - there's only one way to do that.

Whatever YOUR plans are...
make TODAY a good day.

"Forever " TWO Wheels.

I'll Have a Tequila Sunrise...

2010-04-28T13:23:00.003-04:00

Coming of age while living in Ft. Lauderdale - I certainly have had my share of Tequila Sunrise. Every tiki hut, beach bar, pool bar, patio bar, club - claimed they made the best Tequila Sunrise. Served in fancy glasses, hurricane glasses, tall glasses, plastic glasses, thermos cups... you name it. But the secret, the real key to a perfect Tequila Sunrise is to serve it in a tall, plain glass - no cherry, no umbrella, no froo froo - just ice - so after it's poured, you can witness the colors slowly run, pulling red into orange, into clear - settling at the bottom - like a beautiful watercolor painting.

Oranges, yellows, pinks, reds - Tequila Sunrise Colors,
Indian Summer Colors, California Sunset Colors -
all represented quite nicely in my fabric stash - and begging to made into modern quilt blocks. Looking at them as they are piling up - makes me happy (and thirsty!)

What I'm going to do with them - I'm not exactly sure. A quilt, a wall hanging, patio table placemats??? Not sure yet. The only thing I AM sure of..... I'm gonna make some more!

OH! and in case you're interested THIS is how you make the perfect

TEQUILA SUNRISE....

A Tequila Sunrise can be made two different ways, the original and MY favorite - is made with tequila, crème de cassis, lime juice and a spritz of soda water. The more popular concoction and home version, is made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup.

Originally served at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel,

(I never knew that) the

cocktail is named for the way it looks after

it has been poured into a glass. The denser ingredients (cassis or grenadine) settle, creating gradations in color that mimic a delicious sunrise. Kinda like these blocks here.

I think I'll have another!

Modern Quilt Monday!!!

2010-04-26T14:12:00.097-04:00

My Janome has been in the shop for the past week. I've had it for over two years and have never had it serviced.
I clean it all the time - but it was starting to squeak, and act silly so off it went to Quilts Like Crazy (a Janome certified service center and quilt shop extraordinaire) in Wake Forest for a little pampering and R&R.

To get me by - I dusted off my not so old standby - a little Brother machine that works like a peach for piecing and garment sewing. A cute little machine that eventually will be going off to college with Sabrina in a few years.

Modern Quilt Monday(s) - begin TODAY. First order of business - I added to my stash to incorporate some bold, bright colors and prints. Everything got washed, pressed and neatly folded ready to be incorporated into the already existing stash.

Second order of business - I joined a local guild that focuses on modern color schemes and technique. I am so happy I found this group. The Modern Quilt Movement (incorporating Improvisational Quilting) is taking the quilting industry by storm. Fabric lines, patterns and techniques specifically adapted to this bold and colorful art form are popping up all over.

Tonight - I've got to figure out my color scheme for my first mod quilt. I can't decide if I want to do white with blues, greens and purples, or white with reds/pinks, oranges and yellows.

For now - I'm just really happy sitting here sipping my St. Ives Tea, looking at all of these beautiful colors, contemplating design - and enjoying the fact that Gizmo has taken it upon himself to keep my feet warm!!

What a guy!

Alone Again.......

2010-04-18T15:13:00.003-04:00

Naturally. I need to get organized. I've got so much stuff swimming around in my brain. I always thought that when kids got older - it got easier. WRONG! There is so much to remember, so many things to do, places to be, deadlines, applications, meetings - eek - it just gets to me after a while. I know I'll miss it now with Sal heading off to college and Sabrina only 3 years away. But still - it's overwhelming.

I decided that since Blaise was going to Atlanta for a boat race that I couldn't go to because Sabrina had school -- that Friday, we'd play hookie, pack up the jeep and head over to the Carolina Coast for a little R&R.

In the middle of nowhere - that's where it feels like you are when you are on Topsail Island, NC. A far cry from the uber crowded and noisy beaches of South Florida where we are used to spending our beach time. Miles and miles and miles of desolate, peaceful , immaculate beach where all you hear is the sound of the waves and the call of the birds. These pictures were taken on Friday and Saturday - can you believe how unpopulated the beach is?

It was nice to have a few days to relax outside. No chores, no television, no computer, no phone, no e-mail, no facebook, no blogger, no doorbell and lots of quality time with my girl. And while the beach was devoid of humans, we made plenty of other friends...I did have to lure this guy closer with fish (pretzel goldfish!) but he had no problem coming right up to our blanket and gobbling them up.

What's also cool about this place is you can bring your dogs. We didn't know this or Tobie and Gizmo would have been right there with us. We saw quite a few dogs including a corgi that loved playing in the waves. I really liked it here - very unpretentious.

When we first drove up and saw the outside - I know we were both a little unsure - but upon entering our room , we found it to be charming, very beachy and most importantly - immaculate. And the view from all windows was beautiful -- framed with crisp, white curtains.

We're back home now - the jeep has been washed and vacuumed (it gets really, really dirty inside with the top off), the bags unpacked, the laundry washed and put away - and now it's business as usual. Blaise still isn't back from his boat race and Sal is working all day so we have one more day of peace and quiet. Sabrina is on her bed reading, and I'm in the studio working on some WIPS (two needle cases, a gothic baby quilt (yep, that's right) a cape cod table runner and a few other odds and ends that are cut out, partially stitched together) that I intend to finish up this week before starting any other projects. My goal is to get them ALL done by next weekend. I really want to start my MOD Quilt!

I know I am a self-proclaimed "mountain girl." But I do miss the ocean. That was the ONLY thing I loved about living in South Florida. The ability to go to the ocean whenever it beckoned - which was almost every day. I'll leave you now with this beautiful sunrise of Topsail Island.

Have a great week! And by the way - what WIPS do YOU have laying around?

Groovy Baby! Mod Quilts....

2010-04-14T15:04:00.003-04:00

I've discovered something new (at least new to me) - Mod Quilts and Paintbox Quilts. It was love at first site.

In my travels across the internet I stumbled upon Oh Frasson! and there -- before my very eyes were quilts created from the the most striking color pallettes I've ever seen. Using black and white, white or Kona solids, this gal mixes color and hue like a master. And the way she finishes the backs of her quilts - perfection.

I'm not gonna lie - I've always loved old fashioned quilts - applique, traditional piecing, Amish, etc. but I love them even more when the old meets the new -- traditional piecing or applique that uses uses bold, contemporary prints and bright colored fabrics. Double that with contemporary design piecing AND the wild color schemes - and THAT is something that gets my attention.

I want to make a color + white quilt myself. So I bought two gorgeous selections of fabric - one of Kona classic solids, by Kafman, and one called "Gallery" by Kaufman. Both of which I think will compliment the batiks and prints I have on hand. Oh Yeah - I love these intense colors!

There's a Fresh Modern Quilts flickr group if you're interested in seeing some really amazing eye candy. And Oh Frasson's! website has some great patterns and tutorials utilizing really cool color combinations for bold "out of the ordinary" results. I just love looking at them.

Today and tomorrow I'm finishing up some WIPs and upon the arrival of my new purchases - I will be starting my own version of a Mod Quilt.

Oh the possibilities!

"A Book Must be the Ax, for the Frozen Sea Within Us..." (Kafka)

2010-04-05T15:41:00.001-04:00

There is no better cure for creative block (the frozen sea!) , than an inspiring book (the ax!) In the market for a new book, after researching about 10 books, I decided to purchase the next in a series of books I already own written by artist/author, Sandra Meech - Connecting Art to Stitch.

I already have Contemporary Quilts and Creative Quilts: Inspiration, Texture & Stitch: - both written by Meech, and I can't tell you how many times I have gone to both of them for inspiration or instruction. I knew by purchasing this most recent book - I couldn't go wrong.

This new book (copyright 2009) is laid out very similar to her other books with a section on, "Using this Book", as well as five additional sections outlining various techniques and procedures, discussing materials, use, providing examples, and in many cases - "exercises" that really drive home the points she is trying to make, while reinforcing basic design principles. Yay!

Hey - do you have a favorite "go to" book in your art/craft/quilting/mixed media library? Do tell.

Flowers Everywhere!

2010-03-28T11:12:00.002-04:00

"Skitching" - sketching with stitch. Did some experimenting with that last week. Soaked a piece of Kona muslin in water, "blopped" some various colors of gouache on here and there, let it dry and then "skitched" with black cotton thread. Love these.

Also paint-dyed some little pieces of muslin and then stamped music, french words and some nature textures with "stayz on." Not sure what is to become if these - if anything, but they sure are pretty.

Also worked a bunch in the yard this past week. Got the vegetable garden and herb garden cleaned out and put in. Now they've just got to grow!

Brina's on Spring Break this week so we are heading over to University of North Carolina School of the Arts where she will be attending for a month in the summer and taking their Visual Arts program. So excited for her.

It's a four week intensive study visual arts program and cello instruction - 3 college credits. She will be staying in the dorm during the week and then they go on all these cool trips on the weekends - white water rafting, museum visiting, all kinds of fun places.

Something in Hot Pink Maybe.....

2010-03-21T17:27:00.027-04:00

Uggh. I really need some new stuff. I want to buy some white shorts and a hot pink top. Or a cute little denim skirt and a flirty Bohemian blouse. Something. Anything. As long as it has COLOR --lots and lots of color. I'm sick of wearing jeans and dark sweaters, heavy black leather motorcycle jackets, black leather boots. So today to celebrate Spring - I liberated myself and tucked all my winter stuff away. As for the bikini - a girl can dream can't she!?

Slice Quilt/Fractuired Quilt - Spring has also made an appearance in the downstairs studio by virtue of some "Spring-esque" projects. I dug out the Van Gogh Iris slice quilt. The panels have been sewn together and now I'm trying to decide what to do next. I don't think I want to "box it in," with a traditional border. I've been entertaining the idea of making iris petals and leaves to carry over and "out" of the quilt along the edges. Deconstructed. I've also been free motion quilting some the panels by the other artists - by way of adding the "black" outline to more of the iris flowers and details to leaves. I can see this is going to be a long work in progress - but I must finish it by June 1st as I want to bring it to the June Cyberbee meeting. I'm the last one to finish. Everyone esle finished their quilts and they came out just beautiful.

Here's a tiny peek at a little blackbird I threadpainted for a special friend. I don't want to spoil the surprise as she hasn't received it yet - so I'll show the entire thing at a later date.

How did YOU celebrate Spring this weekend? Did you stay inside and Spring Clean?? Or did you run outside and embrace Mother Nature? Me - after I cleaned out my closet - I got down and dirty. Got all the vegetables in the ground, the sunflowers planted and the corgis bathed.

After a full day spent in the dirt - EVERYBODY needed a bath!

THIS is the face I got when I said the word, "bath!"

WINTER be Gone.....

2010-03-12T17:23:00.001-05:00

I am a wee bit sick of clouds today. While I love a good thunder storm - these lifeless clouds, suspended from the heavens -- neither raining, nor snowing - are really begining to bore me.

I do believe I'm ready for Spring. I walked about the yard today surveying the property - thinking about what I'm going to play and where I'm going to plant it. I miss fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes and crispy peppers. And I long for the sight of big, beautiful sunflowers. So I say, "Let the Sun Shine!" Winter be GONE!

Queen of Hearts...

2010-03-10T10:39:00.007-05:00

Corny, I know - but I still love making hearts. Always have, always will. I keep making them for Sabrina and she doesn't have much interest in them - they're for "little girls."

NOT SO - say I. Hearts are everywhere. Carolyn makes beautiful textile hearts. Babs makes gorgeous clay hearts. My hearts - well, I like to start with a fabric base and then I attach all kinds of stuff - plastic, floss, yarn, fibers, wool, buttons, ribbons, etc. I paint them, melt them, stitch them - whatever I feel like doing. Many of my leftover scraps get turned into.... HEARTS.

The purple heart above, is one I made for Babs. I've loved purple since I was about 13. It's still one of my favorite colors and I love working with it.

This is the Heart that Babs made for me. It's clay painted in the most beautiful Earthy colors, embellished with copper and beads. I love it. I met Babs through the Girlfriend's Traveling Sketchbook. Her stuff is so cool.

My bezzy, Carolyn (Love Stitching Red) , made me a delicious little purple heart (right). I've admired her heat distressed, stitched and embellished work for a very long time. You may remember the Global Warming piece she made for me a while back. Her work is so unique and her blog is a work of art in and of itself.

My mentioning hearts would be amiss had I failed to mention that Blaise, Sabrina and & I saw Alice in Wonderland this weekend at Imax in 3D. In a word - MAGICAL. "What does that have to do with hearts?" you ask. Helena Bonham Carter played the Queen of Hearts...

she was fantastic - as was Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter.
Coolest movie - loved it! "I need a PIG!!!"

My dear Sabrina.....

Heart's are NOT

just for little girls.

Two Different Kinds of "Stitches..."

2010-03-08T13:49:00.002-05:00

While sitting with Gizmo the few days he was in dire straights - I found it hard to read or watch tv. Instead, I worked on the applique blocks for the wall hanging I've been playing around with. I found the repetition of the stitching (without having to put too much thought into it) calming and very "zen" like. I got the entire thing pieced together (even the borders) and now I'm going to work on doing some serious embellishing with fibers and floss - maybe a few beads.

There's a little rabbit that goes on the bottom. I've cut him out of wool flannel and I'm going to blanket stitch him down. I've never really worked on a "traditional" piece like this before - it's really kind of fun.

I had so many things "in the works" when Gizmo got sick and time just stopped. It is nice to be finishing up some things that I've promised out.

Here's an "initial" bag that I made for Sal's sweet little girlfriend, Lindsay. She picked out the fabrics and asked if I could make it with her initial "L" on it. I made a little pocket inside for her phone and camera. It came out cute.

On thing Gizmo's recent "mishap" reminded me of - was the importance of PATIENCE.

Those who know me know I'm not a very patient person when it comes to accomplishing things. I begin tasks with one thing in mind - to get them DONE. Sadly, I find that holds true even in my stitching - and while I have such a high regard and admiration for "slow cloth" - doing anything "slowly" used to just about KILL ME. But the last few weeks have demanded me to slow down and "wait." And you know what.... it didn't kill me.

It has been nice slowing down and taking my time with these projects - remembering that the joy of things is found in the JOURNEY and not just in the DESTINATION.

So let's just sit back and enjoy the ride.

UPDATE: Gizmo has returned to his blanket -

in my studio - right by my side. He gets his tummy staples out next Monday.

A Simple Equation for You.....

2010-03-01T12:50:00.032-05:00

This........

PLUS this....

Equals this.....

......a Tummy full of stitches (inside and out)

What was supposed to be a fun weekend (I was supposed to go to the Mid Atlantic Quilt Festival - something I have been looking forward to for months) turned out to be oh, about 4 days of sleepless nights and living hell.

To make a very long story short - Gizmo is home today, resting comfortably (!) and enjoying all the attention and freshly cooked chicken, brown rice and cherry yogurt - being lavished upon him. It was a very close call - but it looks like he's gonna be just fine!

Thank you so much for all your notes, e-mails and concern. I know lots of you visit - not because you could care less about what I'm doing - but because you love to see what Gizmo has been up to!!! lol

It won't be long before he'll be up and about - smiling and posing for the camera again - warming our hearts with his impish antics.

Get Well Quick Little Gizmo. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

P.S. - Got a bunch of hand sewing (applique and embroidery) done while I've been siting with Gizmo. I'll be sharing that soon!