2010 OLYMPICS

I love the Olympics. I vividly remember Peggy Flemming's kelly green ice skating costume, and Dorothy Hamel's famous haircut. I have spent hours watching sports that would never catch my attention, but if it is part of the Olympics, I will watch. The human interest stories are the best part. They are inspirational, and this year, tragic.

I recently made a receiving blanket with the Canadian Maple Leaf flannel fabric for a young couple who are moving back to Vancouver this week. They are expecting a baby girl, Sage, in May. "How did you ever find Canadian Fabric?", "Our friends will be so impressed". It made perfect sense to me, to use the country themed fabric to celebrate their new baby, and a reminder that the Olympics were going on at the time they moved back home.

A simple receiving blanket is such an easy thing to make, and the young mom's love them. Easy to wash, and great to use in a car seat or a stroller.

Now, how am I going to get those Red Mittens?? J

SMOOTH SAILING

A few months ago I posted a photo of the lighthouse block that I designed for the 2010 Tri County Quilt Tour. This is a fun event that takes place in March. Our group has 15 quilt shops from Bothell to Lynden WA. Each shop has designed a block with a nautical theme, and shared with the other shop owners. By March 1st, each shop in the Tour will have their version of the quilt finished and hanging in their store.

I put the last border on my quilt and handed it off to the quilter yesterday. I must say, I am pleased with the results. When I designed the lighthouse last fall, I made the commitment to hand applique the blocks. The problem with applique is, you have to sit still for hours to actually do your blocks! Looking at the picture, I am happy I made this decision. So much of what I do must be completed on the 'fly'. I had many wonderful hours watching movies, the Today Show, and the Olympics. I will always remember the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Olympics when I look at this quilt.

I will post a picture when it is quilted, embellished and bound. I hope you will stop in the shop after March 1st to enjoy it in person. Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Quilt Tour, Smooth Sailing. March 24-27 www.quilttour.com .

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Just in time for the release of Tim Burton's newest movie, Alice in Wonderland! We have Alice and all of her 'friends' on fabric.

I loved the Disney Cartoon movie, and I always look forward to seeing Alice when I am in Disneyland. I know she is not a princess, but the blue dress, with an apron, white tights and those black shoes! I love that outfit.

Johnny Depp is the Mad Hatter and I just read that the movie is in 3D! It should be fun for the whole family.

This fabric is made by Windham, and they have done a terrific job capturing the original artwork.

If you start right away, you could have a quilt ready for the March 5th opening!