Happy New Year!

Day two of driving- done!….and almost three blocks of Fit to Frame by Lori Smith finished!!  The snow storm that hit, melted during the night (whew) and it was clear sailing all the way to Canyonville, Oregon.This morning we were planning on driving over Grant’s Pass and of course you know what they are forecasting….S*^#…that dreaded ‘S’ word and LOTS of it! (and no it’s not the swear word….although I may use a few of those before the day is out!) So we are changing plans and going to drive across towards the ocean to Crescent Beach and then down the coastline….hmmm I wonder if I can find a quilt shop or two there…I mean when the plans change you got to change with them, right?

Now enough about the trip…Let me show you what I have been working on….

This is the block that I worked on yesterday… it’s from the pattern called “Fit to Frame- Number Thirteen” by Lori Smith.  The blocks are 5 inches (I will cut them down to size later.)

They are VERY labour intensive…perfect for travelling.  I see two big semi-trucks on either side of us….I look down and keep stitching until they go away!  I am NOT a good co-pilot-  I’m sure sewing has saved my marriage.

 

I am LOVING this computer lap mat that I bought at Staples just before we left.  It is perfect for stitching on, keeps everything organized and flat.  Plus the foam top grips everything and prevents it from slipping as we sail around corners, slam on brakes and hit pot hole after pot hole!  It is made for a computer but I will use it to do all hand-work on from now on!!  It is light (made of plastic and Styrofoam with pads underneath that mould to your legs.  Plus the REALLY nice thing about this, is the pillow that cushions underneath your wrists so they don’t get tired and strained. I know that there are quite a few of you out there with tendon strain from too much hand stitching….this may be your answer.  (Plus the little wrist cushion doubles as a pin cushion!)  Quilt Shops should sell these- they would make a killing!   It sure worth a try and it only costs about $24.  (my sister-in-law bought hers at Wal-Mart for $18).  It’s a good thing!

I am also enjoying the little origami boxes that were part of the give away that I won from Poppyprints!  You put all your bits and pieces and threads into it to keep the truck nice and clean…now if only the doughnut wrappers and chip bags would fit in….   And when I’m finished it folds closed and flat….very cool!  Thanks again, Krista!

So these are the three finished blocks…well almost finished…I lost some berries off the bottom block which I will cut out tonight.

Have a thrilling Thursday and Happy Quilting! AND of course have a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!  I’ll be thinking of you ringing in the New Year!