THE SIMPLEST THINGS

Oh dear, it's so close to Thanksgiving, my imagination is running ahead of me. I can already smell the turkey in the oven, even though it's still in the frig. For the first time in years we have invited a larger crowd. Today I am juggling work with prepping for tomorrow. I bet many of you are busy as well, but I just had to pop in to say hello along with some important news.

First of all, drum roll please. I want to give you a preview of my soon-to-be released quilt pattern called Woodland Delight, of course. I have had several requests for it since Quilt Market, so somewhere between projects I have been working on this. Designing patterns is time-consuming, especially for a perfectionist. But alas, I'm coming up to the home stretch. I had hoped to have it ready when my Woodland Delight fabrics hit the stores, but I've had several indications that fabrics have been arriving this week.

I know Fat Quarter Shop will be offering the pattern and fabric kits as soon as I get the pattern to them. Theywill accept pre-orders, just email them and ask to be notified when the kits are ready. The pattern by itself will sell for $9.00. If you are interested in pre-ordering just the pattern, email me. I also know some e-stores plan on carrying the Woodland Delight pattern, so this is your official heads up, with gift giving season in full swing.

Speaking of the release of Woodland Delight fabrics, Hawthorne Threads (previously Fabric Supplies.Etsy.com) is having a Woodland Delight giveaway: Three Fat Quarter Bundles. For details click here. But hurry. You only have til Sunday, November 30!

Now see why I had to interrupt your busy schedules?

We got a huge Wyatt and Amelia fix on Sunday. We had them all to ourselves. Their request for dinner is always the same. Get this: salmon, couscous and edamame. Yeah. My kids would have accused us of trying to poison them. Anyway, W & A want to say the blessing. Amelia bows her head and starts, "God, don't you just LOVE this day"? Then she dives into a litany of simple, yet profound thankfulness. Now, don't you know it melted His heart? Oh, to be more childlike in my praises and wonderment.

So as I head back to my To Do list, I just have to let you know just how thankful I am for each one of you. Your comments are such a blessing to me. When you take the time to nod your approval at my quirks and weird humor is so good. When my last post talked about how I still love to embarrass my grown kids for the things they did when they were little, you understood. In fact, Nancy from A Little Bit of Heaven sent this poem that you might have read before, but it could come in handy these next few family holidays:

When I'm an old lady, I'll live with each kid,
And bring so much happiness...just as they did.
I want to pay back all the joy they've provided.
Returning each deed! Oh, they'll be so excited!
(When I'm an old lady and live with my kids)

I'll write on the wall with reds, whites and blues,
And I'll bounce on the furniture...wearing my shoes.
I'll drink from the carton and then leave it out.
I'll stuff all the toilets and oh, how they'll shout!
(When I'm an old lady and live with my kids)

When they're on the phone and just out of reach,
I'll get into things like sugar and bleach.
Oh, they'll snap their fingers and then shake their head,
(When I'm an old lady and live with my kids)

When they cook dinner and call me to eat,
I'll not eat my green beans or salad or meat,
I'll gag on my okra, spill milk on the table,
And when they get angry...I'll run...if I'm able!
(When I'm an old lady and live with my kids)

I'll sit close to the TV, through the channels I'll click,
I'll cross both eyes just to see if they stick.
I'll take off my socks and throw one away,
And play in the mud 'til the end of the day!
(When I'm an old lady and live with my kids)

And later in bed, I'll lay back and sigh,
I'll thank God in prayer and then close my eyes.
My kids will look down with a smile slowly creeping,
And say with a groan, "She's so sweet when she's sleeping!"

Thank you Nancy, and thank you to everyone who reads my posts. May you all have a Thanksgiving filled with wonderment and praise over the simplest things along the way.

WEIGHING MY WHINES

What has happened since my last post, you ask? Hhmmm, let's see. Oh, I know...the freight company destroyed our booth upon return from Quilt Market. Here's the booth at Market:
Did I tell you that Tim (MacGyver), my husband/engineer, devised this booth to fold up into itself? Pretty ingenious, right? Think about furniture that comes to you either blanket wrapped or in a cardboard box. Now here's the booth I received back.

While these were taken with a cell phone, and I'm only showing a few shots, I imagine you get the picture. Holes were poked throughout. So now the burden is on us to try to get compensation.

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Let's see, what else? My business credit card has been compromised. Someone went on a shopping spree soon after Quilt Market. Then we had the water department come out to fix an underground leak in our yard. They came to the door a few minutes later and proudly announced they'd fixed the problem. At 6:oo pm I went to make dinner. No water, not even a drop. Turns out they never turned my water back on. My mother-in-law's Altzheimer is getting worse. She sometimes calls 6 times a day to tell me the exact same thing. She's afraid and lonely and we're 5 hours away.

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Truth is, these are really nothing more than inconveniences. I get frustrated, but am quickly reminded of how blessed I really am. It truly changes my perspective when I choose to turn my attention to what a wonderful opportunity I had to be at Quilt Market.. and I was only without water for a couple hours, etc, etc. My friend Don's inoperable Stage 4 brain tumor; now that's an inconvenience. Don't get me wrong...I love to gripe with the best of them. And if I'm truthful, I most likely won't change. But what I'm trying to do, at least, is put it on an imaginary scale, and these whines all added up to about an ounce. Sigh.

I know you were wondering what Tim and I were on Halloween, so here's the big reveal:

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Tim as a Canadian, and I as someone who works out. Amazing, huh?

I know, I know. We have pulled off some amazing costumes in the past though. It was so much more fun when we could royally embarrass our kids, but that doesn't have the same effect now that they aren't teenagers.

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Oh my gosh, once Tim dressed as the Godfather. Not THE Godfather, but one of Peter Sellers disguises from a Pink Panther movie. Do you remember how he stuffed his cheeks with cotton so he could look like Marlon Brando then choked on a drink? Then got in an elevator with these tough guys and passed gas? So I found a double breasted black pinstriped suit, black shirt, white tie and Fedora hat...I mean the works. But before we got to the huge Halloween gathering at our church (yeah we weren't bible characters) we stopped at the mall to find a whoppie cushion. We had the kids with us. I was also dressed in an elaborate costume...oh I wish I could find pictures. But the kids wanted absolutely nothing to do with us and walked way behind. Of course, being good parents we made sure to turn around and yell to them, by name, to hurry it up.

I frankly have no trouble embarrassing my kids, sometimes unknowingly. Here's another opportunity for me to pull out that imaginary scale I was talking about. I am reminded of all the times they threw themselves down kicking and screaming in the grocery store. Or the time Jennifer ran giggling, pushing the shopping cart with Jonathan in the seat, barrelling into the end cap of cereal. Oh, and how about them hiding inside the clothes rounders to scare unsuspecting shoppers. I'm the mom who left the cart in the isle and promptly escorted them home. So my thinking is ~Hey, I'm still in make up mode, don't you agree?

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Now as we grow older we will undoubtedly truly embarrass them. To that I apologize now:

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Sorry. I swear, I won't do it again.

LEMONS THREE - VERY PRETTY

Did I ever tell you I love lemons? I love their color, texture, the way they reflect light, the fresh smell, shape, taste. I love lemons. Earlier this summer I designed my first art quilt for Quilting Arts Commemorative Issue of the International Quilt Festival Quilt Scene Magazine. Say that five times! The magazine finally arrived today. I'm honored that my first attempt is among so many beautiful award winning quilts and amazing projects. Seriously. I do give full instructions on how to turn a photo into fabric art. Oh, on the back of the quilt I used the selvage from my fabric as my signature because I don't have tags of my own. Just wanted to give you a peek. If you'd like to order your own Quilt Scene, go to Quilting Arts.

OKAY. I STEAL

Maybe while others have moved on, I'm still thinking about Houston Quilt Market 2009. What a blur it seems now that I'm back and still cleaning up the debri. I somehow didn't get my fill, so recently looked around and found more photos I wish I had. Well I do now. I asked Mary, er, I mean TOLD Mary I had to have this picture of us two being so good. Love that gal!

Now who wouldn't want this photo? Found it on Patty Young's blog. Thank's Jon for a great shot of fun at the Michael Miller 10th Anniversary Party. What a happy evening.

I snatched this from Kathy's blog. Only I know just how much is missing in this photo. I had big plans for the booth. Oh well. Let it go Paula! Just let it go.

I took these on my iPhone of my Tim (MacGyver) Prass doing what he does so well. By the way, I'm sure you're wondering how many husbands can actually fit their entire bodies inside the frame? No pictures of me that evening because I was literally lying on the floor staring into space after way too many hours without sleep. Every once in awhile I'd say "Lookin good, hon," or "Great job, MacGyver (yawn)".

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On another note, in a very short time I found these three items made from my Flights of Fancy fabrics. Jona told me at Market that JoAnn's had sewing baskets using my Papillon fabric. I kind of didn't believe it at first, but then realized Jona sells all my fabrics and uses them herself, so she could spot the real deal. When we all got back home, Jona Twittered this picture of the basket. Yup, that's mine, sittin right next to my buddy Sandi Henderson. How fitting. So, I made a trip to the JoAnn's here and they didn't have it...yet?


Then I was clearing out the stacks of mail and flipped quickly through a trade magazine and found this diaper bag with my Zinnia Path fabric (Flights of Fancy). How fun was that?


About as much fun as running into these pj's from The Cat's Pajama's! They are flannel, but that's definately my Fretwork Stripe. Darned if I wouldn't love to be wearing these while using that coordinating sewing basket (above). You can see that, right?

THE END!

HOUSTON QUILT MARKET 2009

What a whirlwind tour. Set up was not so fun, especially because I had pulled an all-nighter, and that just doesn't work for me like it used to, oh thirty or forty years ago. But alas, my husband put on his McGuyver hat and here are a couple pictures of my booth. I went for clean and uncluttered; a place to kick off your shoes, ya know, (I sure did!) and visit with everyone. That's my favorite part. And hearing the response to my new Woodland Delight and upcoming fabric patterns.

We stopped and ran off to Schoolhouse where Sandi and I both talked about creating fresh shop displays. The room was packed, so most of the photos we saw were too far away or the back of peoples heads. But alas, Mary Abreu and Jona came through with close-ups. I want to scrounge around to find some other shots, because I want you to see the back of that jacket I'm wearing. It's one of my upcoming patterns and I love it!

Here are are some of my lovely neighbors: Patty Young in her very cheerful space. She makes me feel so tall. Then Anne Maxfield and Val Pillow of Pillow and Maxfield. Their booth was 3 thumbs up in my book (oops, I was trying to keep that 3rd thumb of mine a secret). My closest next door neighbor was Sandi Henderson, and I have no idea why I have no pics of her booth. We still haven't looked through our cell phone or Jennifer's camera yet, but this is a good start.

Now I had lots of visitors, but the photo's were just plain crappy (sorry, just being honest). Patty gave us a photo lesson using an awesome flash, which I must purchase ASAP. That's why her photos are always so bombdalicious and Jennifer used her flash to take that picture of Patty and I. Anyway, I only have one so far that I can share. Weren't Missy and Liz of Sweet Funky Vintage were ever so matchy in my booth?!

If you've read other blogs, you might have noticed that Michael Miller Fabrics set up an elaborate, uh, how shall I say, trailer park called Camp Michael Miller. At one point Kathy walked "across the street" into my booth and commented on how our side of the street was so sophisticated. We all had fun with it, but before we left for dinner one eve, Tim got this picture of the raccoon "roadkill". I think it was playing possum because next day the raccoon was fine.

The gnome and Christine (MMF) paid us a visit. Actually, Christine came to visit our comfy chair and we enjoyed her company. Oh, and the jacket Jennifer is wearing is another version of the pattern. The back is pleated, and you're not seeing that in my pictures.

I didn't wander away as much as I'd wanted, but made it a point to go find my Twitter friend and fellow fabric designer Michelle Engel Bencsko. We have never met in person, so here we are in her lovely booth!

Quilt Market would be incomplete without dinner one night with Joey and Jona (Fabritopia). Tim is taking the picture, but he was there cracking one joke after another with Joey. We just have to get together more often.

Okay, here are the winners of the GIVEAWAY I posted before I left for Market.

Trillium:
Paula, Seriously! You need to do something I hate for a change - my budget cannot keep up with you. This is TDF!I think it's my fav yet! I love those large scale flowers - those are coming to live with me. At least they can keep me company since my hubby will likely move out after this!

Julie @ Joy's Hope:
One, no scratch that, one hundred yards in each print please. Or some fat quarters... I won't be picky. ADORE IT!!! Need to build a new cabinet to hold the yumminess. My husband will most likely have words with you.

Robyn:

Oh my...you are amazing! These are stunning! How could you out-do your last line - it's stunning! And these are gorgeous! I love the brown and pink line - so perfect for my daughters room! Ok - I'm officially in love - when oh when will these be available? :) :)

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Just send me your address and we'll send the goodies. xoxo

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I want to thank everyone for such incredibly loving comments about my new collection. You all certainly make doing what I do more rewarding!

Woodland DELIGHT!

As usual before a show, the to-do lists are longer than the hours in a day, and whenever possible we multi task. As we were finishing up some photos of some upcoming clothing patterns I had the idea to have Jennifer take some quick shots of me. I picked up a stack of fabric and started playing around. Amelia was "helping" us, as four year olds do, so I asked, "Mia, make Mimi laugh". That's all I needed to get a couple good shots. Now knowing that you really do care about the behind the scenes around here, I am going to reveal why Jennifer was able to get this delightful laugh out of me....

I WAS GOOSED!

Here is what we were really photographing...my Audrey and Petite Audrey upcoming patterns. Frankly, I am DELIGHTED again. Hmm, does anyone smell a theme here? For those coming to Quilt Market you will see these and my other patterns made up in the new Woodland Delight fabrics. When I return from Market I will add additional photos of the other patterns, then dive into the written instructions. As for when these patterns will be ready, I promise to keep you posted.

I adore Simone and her impeccable handbag making skills. She made up the Jackie bag for me as I showed you in my last post AND now my larger version pattern called Oh Jackie! Here it is. I was so tempted to use it as my carry on. Maybe on the return flight.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the wonderful comments you left on my last post. Some of what you said made me laugh, confirmed why I love what I do, and a time or two brought tears to my eyes.

If you are headed to Market I hope you will come to the fun Schoolhouse with Sandi Henderson and I. There will be giveaways...OF COURSE. If you aren't going we will take lots of photos for you. I will choose the winners of the Woodland Delight giveaway in my next post...hope you can wait. xoxo

WOODLAND DELIGHT IS HERE

Well here it is. I'm feeling ever so fashionably late in posting my Woodland Delight reveal. Sure, I could lead you to believe that. Truth is I am buried under projects and fabrics and have lost track of days and times. Did I already mention that every surface here is covered? We eat standing and the garage is in no better shape...just another extension of the creative explosion going on here. It's a love-hate thing. I hate the deadlines and pressures, yet love the creative juices that come to the surface when squeezed to the forefront. I do have dreams of showing up at Quilt Market with one sleeve missing. If that really happens please just pretend it's Project Runway and it's a fierce new look.

Woodland Delight is a playful collection of three cheerful colorways; brown, pink and gray. Do you like it like I like it??? Oh I hope so. It's been so fun to work with. Yup, cheery, chirpy fun.
I frankly still have much to do, so I can only give you some snippets of works in progress.

As you may know, I am working on patterns. Here is the Jackie handbag, which you might recognize from Spring Market. Well, my dear friend Simone is making a couple Jackie bags in my new fabrics. She just sent this photo to tease me and it worked. In turn I am teasing you with one of my upcoming girls patterns. If you like this, then hopefully you'll like the women's version, as well. I will be introducing these and my other patterns at the Houston Quilt Market in less than two weeks now!!

{GIVEAWAY}

I would so love to hear what you think, which combos you like...anything. And to show my deep appreciation for all your delightful comments and encouragement, I have 3 stacks of fat quarters that I would be thrilled to share. Just leave your comments.

I have more to tell you. Sandi Henderson and I are are putting on a Schoolhouse during Quilt Market. Just imagine that! Here's the Scoop:

Creating Fresh Shop Displays

ROOM: 372D TIME: 11:50-12:20

Sandi and I plan to share some great ideas and GIVEAWAYS

Just looked at the clock. Yup, I did, but kinda wish I hadn't. Oh well, another late night. Just me and the sewing machine. And some Jamoca Almond Fudge ice cream. xoxo

Note to self: my header needs changed. Another day...

SHEILA HAS SPOKEN

Since the last experience with my husband's GPS, I wanted you to know I attempted to smooth things over. That is, until Tim told me Sheila said, "It's either my way or the highway". Yeah, more like the toll road! I accused her of taking kickbacks. Tim isn't helping. We can drive across town to see Jennifer and the kids and he takes SHEILA. Not only takes her, he turns her on. Why? Should I be worried? Yeah, well the other night I was nestled up close to Tim and was going on and on about you know who, then asked, "You like me better, right?" There was dead silence. Yes, way! His delayed chuckle was not comforting at all!

I also had to introduce you to our retired weatherman, Bob Gregory, that I spoke of in my last post. Don't you just love him? This video still makes me laugh so hard I cry.



I can hardly believe that I leave for Quilt Market in a little over 3 weeks. Still no fabrics and patterns are not ready either. Geez, no pressure! I'm here twiddling my thumbs, tapping my fingers, and.....set myself up on Facebook! Why, you ask? Twitter wasn't enough of a time sucker? No good answer. It appears to be equally addicting though. Started thinking...hope I don't end up in a Twitter and Facebook recovery group. Will you be there? Cool!

Finally, it thrills me to come across images like this. This is a new Pink Fig pattern featuring Summer Soiree fabrics. Go check them out!

When you hear from me again, it will hopefully be with my newest fabric reveal. And may that be VERY SOON, I hope, I hope.

OH SHEILA, YOU'RE BREAKIN MY HEART....

Nothing gets your mind off your funk mood better than the panic of a TV shoot. Oh, just kidding. It was actually great fun. Here I am on set with Pokey Bolton and Laura Gunn. See, we're smiling. But let me back up and give you the lowdown.

Okay, you remember my last post? I revealed four concerns and I have updates to share.

1. Sheila (my husband's GPS) and I are not on speaking terms. My husband programmed her to get me to Cleveland. She likes Tim. They have a mutual respect. He doesn't take her too literally. If she tells him to turn left, he has an inner compass that tells him he should really turn right. I don't have that inner compass. When God was handing out Sense of Direction, I got lost and could never find that line. Hence, I need Sheila to work with me.

I got to Cleveland just fine. But when I hopped in the car to head home, Sheila was missing from her assigned spot. I found her on the floor. Asked her if she was hiding from me, then placed her back and set her up to take me home. Once I'm on the highway in heavy traffic she jumps ship again. This time she unplugs herself! The little snot! I "had speaks" with her. Had to pull off, get her repositioned and reprogrammed. However, she clearly received a concussion during her fall. She told me to get off on the Ohio Turnpike (a toll road). I didn't come in that way. Hmmpphh.

I put a call in to Tim to tell on her. He told me to just ignore Sheila. That was easier said than done. She tried to get me to turn off at every exit. When I refused, she began tacking hours on to my drive home. She was relentless. I began singing "Oh Sheila, you're breaking my heart, You're shakin my confidence daily". By the time I stopped I was 2 hrs from home, but she had tacked on an additional 6+ hours; clearly punishment for disobeying her. I reprogrammed her again. This time her concussion subsided and she quit hounding me and admitted i only had a couple hours left. When I got home I told Tim he could get Sheila out of the car. Poor Tim is in an awkward situation. He likes both of us. Sheila and I don't like each other. Puts him in the middle. He did take me to dinner and left Sheila home. That's a good sign.

2. I think I did okay. For me, it was like the first time driving a car....so much to remember all at once. Here I was trying to act casual and easy going, but my mind was swirling with thoughts like, "Am I hunching over? Are my boobs resting on the table? Has the iron automatically turned off (YES, it did!)? There were no retakes, so that's a good sign. Thank you for all the incredible advise. What wonderful friends. More than one suggested Depends in case I got to laughing too hard.

3. Don't know how I looked on the screen. I know I felt bloated, but I chose to sit instead of stand, eliminating the need to suck it in. I brought 3 different pair of Spanx and contemplated wearing all three, but was concerned that might restrict blood flow to my brain.

4. Being a newcomer, I took the whole list of rules so seriously. I could just see me showing up in black and having them pull an old, dusty beige shirt off a rack and tell me to change. But, Pokey wore a black cardigan for one of the segments and another gal wore a black jacket in her shoot. Next time, right?

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It was fun. Everyone was so kind. I met several highly creative women and had a great time with my fellow Michael Miller designer, Laura. We had some good laughs, usually at my expense (go figure). As far as when our segments will hit the air, all we know is it will be sometime after the New Year. I'll let you know.

I will also have a project and article in the Fall issue of Quilt Scene. I understand that magazine will be available during Quilt Market. I'm very pleased with how this turned out and can't wait for you to see!

Now on to some Summer Soiree inspiration. This first tunic is from none other than Simone.

Then I found these lovelies in my Summer Soiree Flickr group; made by Georgiapeachez. Lots more where these came from! Go check these gals out.

TONGUE-TIED TV TUTORIAL

Today is a frantically busy day around here. Tomorrow I leave for a TV shoot for Quilting Arts. You might think this is exciting, but for me, not so much. Here are just a few things I'm dealing with today:

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1. I am driving instead of flying because it would actually take longer to fly with a lay over in the opposite direction! I have no sense of direction and am not gadget savvy, but will be taking my husband's GPS that we named Sheila. I haven't been fond of Sheila because she tends to dominate the conversations when we travel. I've kind of made fun of her a time or two. I have her sitting on the kitchen counter and have been speaking kindly to her, hoping anything I've said will be overlooked once we hit the road together.

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2. I am not a natural in front of the camera. In fact, I have a fear of becoming tongue-tied. It's probably because I think tongue-tied people are hilarious. I quickly jot down what they accidently said so I can crack up over and over again. Like our local weather man that said "warm mare ass" instead of "warm air mass". Then he started laughing so hard he was red and wheezing and couldn't talk. Then, at a high school play, the star (who was a very close friend of the family) said "a fat of heathers" instead of "a hat of feathers". She just kept on and never noticed. Will I do that? Or will I hear myself and start laughing so hard that I pee my pants? Yeah, that's what I'm afraid of!

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3. I didn't lose the 10 lbs to counteract the 10 lbs the camera puts on.

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4. And worst of all, I have nothing to wear! Do you know all the rules about what you can and cannot wear? Well, here goes: NO black, white, prints or patterns, sleeveless or short sleeve (long sleeve not a great choice either), turtlenecks, dangle jewelry, colorful nail polish, noisy shoes. 80% of my closet is black, white or black & white. The remaining 20% clashes with the project I am demonstrating. So I spent my entire Sunday running to EVERY clothing store. No seriously! Guess what colors are in? Black and white and purple. Purple clashes with my project. I sure wish my patterns were complete because I would've had the perfect thing to wear. Oh well, I still don't know what I'm wearing, but perfecting my demo, a manicure, renting car and sweet talking Sheila are now at the top of my list.

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You know I must have a colorful blog post prepared for you, so here's the WOW!

No, I haven't opened a shoe store. But after just reading that Jessica over at Mia Joie just sold 65+ pair of shoes in less than 2 hours, I'm kicking myself that I didn't open a Summer Soiree Shoe Store myself! I missed the whole thing, but I guess quite a few others did too. Amazing. Look at those tiny houndstooth mary janes. And the ....oh, ALL of them! Jessica, you are amazing. Thank you for doing exactly what I imagined could be done with my fabrics.


Changing subjects, I just need to brag on my own daughter for a moment. I mentioned previously that Jennifer became a Stella & Dot Stylist a few months ago and has already been promoted to a Director. She is totally in her element. As a mom, you just know and delight in seeing your children find that thing that lights them up. Here are some recent pictures of a Stella & Dot event in San Francisco. Just a proud mom here.

Jennifer with some of her team

Jennifer on stage

Go check out her blog and the Stella & Dot jewelry.

Oh, almost forgot a couple things. First, thanks so much for all the kind comments on my blog and in personal emails. You are so kind. I am doing much better. It was just so weird how the memories returned during the anniversary time. Some of you shared some powerful things that you have also dealt with. Truth is, we all deal with things and it's comforting to know we are not alone.

THEN, HELLO. Laura Gunn and I will both be doing a TV shoot the same day. Laura is being interviewed (Lucky Dog!). We'll take lots of pictures and keep you posted. Now, back to frantic mode. xoxo

FUNK, FUNK GO AWAY

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will make me go in a corner and cry by myself for hours.” Eric Idle

I have been in a real funk lately. While I know some of the reasons why, the last few days were particularly rough. Then it hit me. It is the one year anniversary of me breaking my arm and shoulder while in NY. Once it clicked, the memories came flooding back. It took me awhile to even post about it at the time. I eventually was able to tell a bit about some of the humor, but truth be told, it was a tough time. Something happened right before the accident that was emotionally painful for me, and somehow the two became one as a memory.
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While I was in NY to participate in the New York International Gift Show, I had one particular vendor that, how do I put this gently?...is evil. A bully whose favorite things are intimidation, the F word and having an entourage to help her feel bigger than life. During a previous show she gathered her posse, got up in another gals face and tore into her like one of those Housewives episodes. I started requesting to not be near her booth, but sure enough, it never failed. She considered me a competitor, didn't like me one bit and tried to make my time a living hell. That last NY show was the worst. It was on the heals of that experience that I fell. I think she had a voodoo doll with my name on it. Anyway, one year later, even though my arm is near perfect, the ominous feelings returned.
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Here's the outside of my swollen and bruised arm. Looked much better than the xrays (I'll spare you). I am so glad it's been a year, my arm and shoulder are doing great, and I only do Quilt Shows now. If you know of any fabric vendors that make voodoo dolls on the side, will you let me know?

Now I'm the kind of person that "counteracts" something bad with something good. I like to eat some fruit to counteract any junk food. I know, it's weird. Anyway, I am counteracting that junk story I just told you with some perfectly wonderful eye candy! Thanks for letting me get that out of my system. Now enjoy these while I go eat lots of fruit!!

Another delicious pair of shoes made out of some Summer Soiree by the amazing Mia Joie designer, Jessica. Go see her other latest creations.

Luscious pillow by Nestables.

Scrumptious tote by Daisy Hill Studios

And wrap your eyes around this "comfort food". Made by Julie over at Tattered Threads and Willing Hands for her lucky college bound daughter. What love and a wonderful story behind this quilt. Go say hello.

DON'T STEP ON MY BLUE FLORAL SHOES

You know, every once in awhile I stumble across a website that is beyond incredible. A few weeks ago, while randomly surfing in the middle of the night, I stopped dead in my surfing tracks when I came across Mia Joie. This website is authored by a young mom with three lively children. Jessica handle's her everyday mom struggles with a camera in one hand (proving she didn't make it all up) and enough sanity to get it down in writing. Then her photography is amazing. Now both of those ingredients would have kept me coming back, but the gal also makes these baby shoes that are drop dead gorgeous. So when she posted these photos using my Summer Soiree fabrics, I just had to do a SHOW + TELL.

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Jessica is promising to have a whole collection of shoes and accessories (I think in various Summer Soiree fabrics) once she fills an order from a company in London for 100 pair of shoes!

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Come back by and let me know what you think. xoxo

OOPSY DAISY is NO MISTAKE

PAULA PRASS and mimi's collection joins

Finally, here's that "announcement" I was mentioning ages ago. It takes a great deal of time for everyone to cross their t's and dot their i's, you know.

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In June 2009, I closed the wholesale divisions of both Paula Prass and mimi's collection. After six years of offering hand-painted art for children and home decor. I, Paula Prass, aka mimi's collection, have joined forces with Oopsy daisy, a leading manufacturer and distributor of high quality artwork for children and the home. We still offer my artwork on my retail websites, but Oopsy daisy will handle our wholesale orders for our most popular pieces. Yeah! That frees me up to do what I do best-design!

And yes, I have been doing some designing. Unfortunately, nothing I can show you yet. I just finished a project with a reveal coming in the fall. I am also trying, and I do mean TRYING, to find time to work on patterns. I know, I know. I'll get on that right now. Well, after I add a few pics of Summer Soiree. You didn't think I'd leave a post without pics did you?

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Here are a few from the photo shoot. Did I tell you our dear neighbor friends took off on vacation and while they were gone I decided to use their yard for the photo shoot? Our yard had too much of a slope. Besides, what are friends for? Thanks Nancy with the better yard!

PRESS & WOODLAND DELIGHTED

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I wanted to pop in and say hello to eveyone. How are you doing? I know the weather is very odd this summer, isn't it? It hasn't bothered me one way or the other because I have mostly been glued to the studio. We just turned in the final corrections to the strike 0ffs for my 3rd fabric collection, called Woodland Delight. Hows that for the weakest of sneak peaks above? Sorry about that, but for some reason I have the tiniest swatches and if I got in much closer it wouldn't be a sneak peak, now would it? You'll just have to wait. I turned this collection in last February, and it is just now getting finalized, so I've been waiting much longer than you will. This line will show a more carefree, playful side to my designs. I like to mix it up sometimes, you know.

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What a lovely surprise to find my Summer Soiree was being featured yesterday on one of my favorite sites, print & pattern. Go check it out here. I LOVE print & pattern so it's quite an honor to be featured twice now.

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A few minutes ago I also got news that True Up has just posted this interview they did with me recently. It's hot off the press, so go check it out here. I really enjoyed doing this one for some reason; just had more fun with it, I guess.

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I am in the midst of some projects, one of which is patternmaking. Yikes. What a long, arduous process. I'm very excited about a couple first tries, but I have quite aways to go before you see sneak peeks on these, geez.

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Finally, I told you I had a bit of an announcement last week. I still do, but now that is being put off another week. Welcome to my world. Hurry up and wait.

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Drop in to say hello. Gets kinda lonely being glued to the studio.

PAPILLON IS FLYING HIGH

I kept getting emails and Twitter messages that an apron made from my Papillon fabric from Flights of Fancy was on Army Wives. So this morning I got on the Army Wives website and there it was. Wonder where the apron came from? I kinda think the only thing that could make it look even better is if there was an XXLL label right on the front that said PAULA PRASS. I'm just sayin...

It's really not uncommon for us to find my artwork, picture frames, even rooms I've designed in magazines, books and catalogs. Just yesterday saw my picture frames on the Atlanta Gift Mart application form. The biggest accidental find was a room I designed ended up in this book. Imagine standing in a bookstore flipping through and finding your own designs. No mention of the designer.

Here's the room, which was also on the front cover of this BH&G Window & Wall magazine and you can see all the Before and After's on this previous post.

I did have a bit of an announcement, but it will have to wait for now, sorry. Nothing that I can't put off for another post. Just wanted to share my Papillon goodness with you.

LET'S HAVE A SUMMER SOIREE

This is the second post today, but this has been such a big project for us I had to share the results. Once we hit the save button at 5 p.m., I was wanting to do cartwheels (in my head only, don't worry!) while Jennifer wanted to take something for a headache. I did the sewing (except for the adorable jumper from Simone of Gardenhouse); Jennifer did the photography; Tim was the stage hand and the models added that party atmosphere. Seems we are in a never-ending learning curve, but isn't that life? If this puts you in the party mood, go over to Michael Miller Fabrics to enjoy all the options for creating your own soiree. I'd love to hear what you think!

If two posts in one day and an interview isn't enough, I have yet another post for tomorrow. Please stay tuned for more news?

ARE WE HAVING FUN YET?

We finally were able to do our long overdue Summer Soiree photo shoot. Of course, we brought along our models. Thought I'd share some of the fun with you. Wyatt is becoming a natural, while Amelia...well, not so much. She still has to be chased down, bribed and threatened. Ah, but one shot like this one is worth it (at least for the photographer/mom).

Wyatt just strikes one pose after another and is so stinkin serious about his job. By any chance, does Ralph Lauren read my blog?

I know the lighting isn't the best, but Mia IS smiling and has not crossed her eyes and stretched her mouth from ear to ear, so we're saving this one.

And here is one of many shots of her hiding from us. Isn't she "sweet"?

Off into the sunset, pizza and dessert.

The Summer Soiree photo shoot will be revealed very, very soon, once we've properly tweaked.

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Speaking of food; our friend Missy Severson of Sweet Funky Vintage came with her family last week for a quick visit. Jennifer and I met them for dinner at a place right beside the Monon Trail so Chris could chase their 3 girls around outside while us girls got all caught up. And no, we didn't coordinate outfits.

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JoAnn Connolly of The Sewing Examiner recently interviewed me. She really asked some interesting questions, so if you're interested on some behind the scenes scoop (and I hope you are) go check it out. Let me know how I did, will you?

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Okay, back to editing more Summer Soiree photos.

LAUGHTER IS AN INSTANT VACATION

That is exactly what we have given each other. When I came up with this giveaway, I really had doubts that you would take the time to write out a whole story, especially if it, well, exposed some embarrassing moments. Oh was I wrong. You have had no trouble bearing your souls (and other body parts) for a chance to win. If you haven't read them all, I encourage you to take an instant vacation. Thank you so much, my friends. We all know each other a little bit better now, don't we? You made me tell 4 stories so you are getting to know me quite well.

The #1 winner: Infarrantly Creative. I actually got a few emails from people saying they peed their pants when they read this one. I'm hear to testify...I laughed so hard I cried (and peed) Contact me for your Summer Soiree giveaway.

The #2 winner: Mollie. Your mom is hilarious. Maybe you can make her something with the laminate for what you all put her through.

Another Summer Soiree Giveaway

My new fabrics are hitting the stores. And guess what? There's another giveaway for Summer Soiree fabrics over at Sew Love Fabrics. And you don't have to work nearly as hard as I made you. 12 one half yards of my Summer Soiree. Go check it out.

LAST HOURS UNTIL GIVEAWAY!

IT'S ALMOST TIME TO CELEBRATE!

Reminder: There's only a few hours left to enter the Summer Soiree Giveaway.

What's your favorite story?

ANYONE UP FOR A {GIVEAWAY}?

I sure wish I could check in more often. Especially because there is usually so much to share when I finally get around to it, that I don't know where to begin. Okay, I'll just dive in and start rambling, if you don't mind. Just take a look at this first image before moving on.

First of all, a big, huge thank you for all the emails and posts filled with encouraging words about my new Summer Soiree fabrics for Michael Miller. I am so excited to say, word has it (actually a Twitter from Michael Miller Fabrics that I happened to see) that my SS fabrics are ready to ship. Do I hear a YEAH!? I desperately need some myself. I have had a photo shoot planned and am tapping my fingers and toes and watching for the UPS truck. Don't you know the project and colorway I planned for the shoot are the very fabrics I didn't have enough of?

So, in the meantime Jennifer and I have been practicing our very weak photography skills. We both would LOVE to take a class, but realize it would need to be between 2 and 4 a.m. I have been asked to provide a head shot of myself for a couple upcoming projects. Interestingly, EVERY photo of me has Jennifer in it and our heads are touching; almost attached. Seriously, we even have one we named Heads Together, but all of them should have the same title. This phenomenon apparently has gone on for many years. I used to say we were joined at the hip, but all along it was the head. Maybe when I'm bored and need something to do (yea, right), I'll show you what I mean.

So, here is our attempt at trying to take a photo of me alone. It was in the upper 90's and humidity was 107, so I heard. No one had to tell me, though. My hair and the sweat were screaming. We also tried hard to take one without the sun, but every time Jennifer went to shoot, the sun popped out from behind a cloud. I went inside twice to calm the frizz. We intended to have some pillows and fabrics squeezed in there, too, but this is my close-up. Guess I could have reclined with the pillows, but that wasn't happening. It cracks me up; this sexy pose. But I was over it. I was hungry and cranky (kinda like when we try to take pics of Amelia). Thanks to the miracles of Photoshop this is all anyone will get from me for awhile. Or is it? Any thoughts?

So, since I had makeup on and was dressed decent, I decided to reward the photographer by taking her to a new restaurant close by. It's called Petite Chou and it's my new favorite place to eat. We took a couple photos just to give you a feel. Oh, and believe it or not, our friend was there and took a picture of Jennifer and I. Imagine that. Our heads are attached! I think we might need counseling; I'm not sure.

It was mid afternoon on a very hot day, so it wasn't busy and the manager didn't mind these weird gals snapping shots. He said the maps are actually painted onto the wall by hand. Right now I'm really liking grays with black and white. Oh, and the food is wonderful! If you're in town you should try it.

I haven't mentioned this giveaway recently, but this is a good time to bring it to your attention again. A few months ago I donated fabric to Dana of Old Red Barn Co. for a quilt along. I went over there this morning to see how things are coming along. The quilt is complete and this is where, even if you weren't in this from the beginning, there is a Janome 6600 sewing machine at stake here! You should go over there and sign up for a chance at this huge prize. Her tutorial is invaluable, especially if you are new to quilting. I know Dana has been busy and I've fallen off her radar screen, so tell her I said hello. Here are some pics I found over there of the finished quilt out of my Flights of Fancy. It's an awesome website filled with eye candy.

Now remember that first picture at the top of this post? Hope so. In celebration of my Summer Soiree release, how about a

{GIVE AWAY}

PRIZE #1 3 half yard pieces of fabric from the Miami colorway (pinks and oranges) and a fabric belt mixed with fabrics from both Summer Soiree and Flights of Fancy.

PRIZE #2 1 yard each of my 2 new Laminate Cotton fabrics. (In the center is a trench coat made from this new laminate by Kay Whitt using her Sophia Trench Coat Pattern).

Now what must a person do to enter this Giveaway, you ask? I actually have thought about this long and hard. I'm thinking I want to hear some stories about Summer (Summer Soiree) and something about water (laminate). One of my favorite things when a group of us get together is to have us tell on ourselves. I usually have 5 hilariously embarrassing summer stories for everyone elses 1 or 2. These usually involve swimsuit malfunctions and swimming pools. When a group of us gals were hanging out in our hotel room, my Jennifer was more than willing to share some of those. Surely you all have at least one funny story involving summer or water, or geez, we'll listen to any funny story, won't we? As long as we tell it tastefully, I will promise to share one story of my own for every, hmmm, say 20 of yours. Then we will vote on 2 of the funniest in a week from now. That should give you enough time to slip and fall (is that ever really funny?) over the 4th of July weekend. Let's have some fun.

*NOTICE: This Giveaway is over. Winners are posted here. Thanks.

SUMMER QUILTS + SUMMER SALE

AND...

I admit it, that wasn't a very clever Blog title. Just not feeling clever. It's yet another dark and dreary morning with the potential for serious storms on the way. I had an outdoor photo shoot planned. Oh well. There's always plenty to do (before the power goes out, that is). Like telling you about this Summer Sale we are having over at both Paula Prass and mimi's collection websites. Go check it out. I love lining the 3x3 frames in 3's or 5's across, or do 4 squares, etc. Stock up on those and grab some notecards or single cards while you're there. The silhouette's that we added in the sale ad below are not included. You probably know that, but I have to say it anyway.

And how about I show you this beautiful quilt that I found, quite by accident. I was doing a little blog and Twitter surfing when I came across this quilt made with mostly Flights of Fancy fabrics. Seriously, even if it weren't my fabric I'd still have had the same reaction! LOVE. Turns out it was at Quilt Market and I missed it. It's a quilt pattern from Anka's Treasures Simple Sixties. I was enjoying Heather's Trends and Traditions blog and as I scrolled down for an instant I thought something looked very familiar. My quilt, well, not REALLY mine, is called Beach Balls. Just wanted to share such a cheery thing on my dismal day.

Thankfully, I got this much posted, but better not push it. The house is rattling. Bye!

STEPPING AWAY FROM THE STUDIO

I continue to practice claiming my life back by not working 24/7. I think it's starting to take hold. I actually found myself thinking about my own familyroom this weekend. The ottoman is back from Market and I traded it out for the glass coffee table that has been in front of the sofa. Then as I stood back, I dreamed of a white sofa (yeah, I know...a glutton for punishment). My sofa is a more practical rasberry color, but I love the punch of the white. Then I ran upstairs and came back with a white quilt from the guestroom. Wow, what a difference, don't you think? My walls are already a maize yellow and I'm really liking this combo. This got me a bit excited! Hmm, yup, I'm thinkin...

On Friday, I was in the middle of working on something, so Tim offered to heat up the leftovers from the night before. Next thing I know, Tim slips this plate in front of me and says, "Here's your Happy Meal"......

And we didn't even have the grandkids here! What a nut. Okay, if you can't tell, that's grilled salmon and asparagus with couscous and a green olive on a lovely paper plate. I love leftovers. So easy! And so fun when Tim is in charge, right?



So, Saturday Tim and I went on a 12 mile bike ride. It was a perfect day and NOT raining. It was Tim's idea, of course. Sad to say, I don't naturally think of getting outside for fun. Here in Indianapolis and north of Indy we have the Monon Trail. It is now almost 18 miles long and such a perfect way to bike, skateboard, rollerblade, walk, jog, even cross country ski, weather permitting. It used to be an old railroad bed, but every year it is being extended by asphault from downtown Indy up north through Carmel (yeah) and recently extending into Westfield, IN. There are gorgeous tree covered paths leading into quaint shopping and eating areas. The smell of honeysuckle and sounds of birds singing in the breeze was such a treat. We road down to Broad Ripple, had lunch at one of the many outdoor eateries, visited some shops and headed back. We even stopped by the Indianapolis Art Center, another must see. Enough talk...here's a bit of what we enjoyed:

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INDIANAPOLIS ART CENTER

I hope you enjoyed the little tour. Proved to myself that there is life away from the computer/studio on a Saturday. What do you do when you're not working? I'm gonna try more of this kinda thing soon. And if you are in these neck of the woods, the Monon is mucher better in person!

LIL OF THIS, LIL OF THAT

Well, what's a gal to do now that we are only selling retail on Paula Prass and mimi's collection. We are still finishing some promised orders, but I do see more time to do some things previously neglected...like yard work! We have been weeding, planting lots of flowers, weeding, transplanting and more weeding, whew. Did get help one day from my Little Miss Amelia.

Between lots of yardwork and keeping the grandkids for several days I managed to hurt my back. Ended up down and a bit drugged out for a few days (fortunately AFTER the kids were gone). Feeling much better now, thank you!

So while I was resting (and drooling, sorry!) I hopped on my Flights of Fancy Flickr group and found many more lovelies. Thought I'd share a few here:

Delightful clothing by Sweet Dreams Designs......

Another gorgeous handbag by Gardenhouse.....

A delightful peasant dress by Travelin Light Designs.......

And a Springtime jumper by iveyc95.......

This quilt is just one piece from a whole bedding set by s. saunders (so much more here).......

On another note, Kay Whitt sent me a couple better photos of things she made out of my fabrics. First, A closeup of her wonderful trench coat pattern using the new laminated Spring Flights of Fancy for Michael Miller.

Then she made this awesome handbag using my new Summer Soiree in the Manhattan colorway. Go check out all Kay's patterns over at Sew Serendipity.

Speaking of patterns, as a new fabric designer with 2 Quilt Markets under my belt now, I have been amazed at how many people seem at least, if not more interested in the outfits, bedding, pillows and handbags. I'm just sayin I have two fabric collections now, isn't that enough? Apparently not. So, I am actually at the drawing board and planning some upcoming patterns. I actually have had some sketches of clothing, etc. designs for some time, and a handbag that is nearing completion:


So that's what I'm up to. And in between, trying to reclaim my life by enjoying my yard, my family and friends and the Creator of it all! Hope you are doing the same.

EVEN BEAUTIFUL CHERRIES HAVE PITS

While Jennifer and I were downloading this image, without thinking, we ate the still life. Before we realized it we had nothing left but a stack of not-so-pretty pits. No do-over. No trying a different angle. So what started as just a pretty picture depicting Life Is A Bowl of Cherries, turned into a thought provoking blog post.

Yesterday was way more than June 1 around here. It's the day we closed the wholesale portion of our children's and home decor line of accessories. In January we were side swiped with CPSIA's initial regulations smack dab in the middle of Market in Atlanta and LA! The state of the economy already seemed enough of a downer for small businesses, or so I thought. We spent a solid week making phone calls and researching the web; trying to get some understanding for our store owners, sales reps, showrooms and our own confused selves. Every person we talked to had hugely different answers.

Since too many decisions have to be made months in advance, I made a painful call to end it. Sounds so simple, yet it was quite difficult. We have poured 6 years, 7 days and nights a week of our lives into this baby. It was a huge loss and I confess I melted. The most difficult part for me was letting others down and letting people go.

You might remember my rapid departure back in January? Tim had an instant, yet very timely business trip to here, here, here, here and here and announced he was sweeping me away to join him. I walked on the beach, prayed and sorted the madness. I returned to a Stay by the CPSIA, but my decision had been made. Months later, I am embracing the possibility of creating and designing again. And while I have several fun things in the works, you can be assured I will be guarding my time from here on out! In the meantime, while we have postponed the wholesale orders it doesn't change our retail sites, Look for upcoming sales!

SPRING 2009 QUILT MARKET PART TWO

I don't really know what happened, but we didn't end up with that many people photos, and some of the ones we did take were scary bad. I felt like I spent a good deal of the time dodging cameras myself. Nonetheless, there are plenty of strange photos of me appearing on blogland. On top of that, our roomie, Sandi Henderson toted around this cute little flip video and she's got Jenn and I shakin in our boots. Sometimes you'd turn the corner to find that little thing right in your face. A whole lotta dodging was going on.

Here's what I do have....

This is Simone Howell. I have blogged about her a couple times before, but this was our first time to meet. She is as absolutely gorgeous as her handiwork. She made the handbags and jumper in my booth. She's a dream to work with because she "gets it". Her work is perfection. She exceeds my high expectations and makes everything even better with vintage ribbons, brooches and lace. Okay, just think I talked her up to the point she won't have time for me anymore. Trust me, you'll be seeing that cute face again..and again.

Then, oh my goodness, I'm in LOVE with this couple. Brad and Jill of Lanie Jane. So fun and..oh let me just say it...Squeezable. We laughed and carried on as if we'd known each other forever. Along with their on-line fabric store, Jane also has a blog worth visiting.

And what would Quilt Market be like without these two very dear friends? Sandi and Patty; not to be confused with Sandi Patty. Seriously, they are both wonderful, but you already know that, don't you?

And of course, here is me and Jennifer, joined at the hip. Patty took this awesome picture of us with that new camera of hers (picture below). So professional looking, huh?


Sandi, Paula and Patty soaking our pained feet before we took off for the Michael Miller dinner.

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We took lots of pictures of Patty's Birthday surprise , but I think this one is her initial response. Looks like Myrinda was trying to scare her. Funny.

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Well, that might be it for now.

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Now don't forget to go to Dana's and sign up for that Quilt Along/Giveaway. Free quilting lessons from the best!

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

QUILT ALONG + HUGE GIVE AWAYS

Wow, I seriously think I am a week behind. Yesterday I noticed several people wishing me a good weekend. Had no clue that this was Memorial weekend until Jennifer broke the news to me. I lost a whole week. Where did it go?

I must have lost that week during Quilt Market. I handed out flyers about this incredible Quilt Along and told everyone it would begin after Quilt Market. Not so. It's already underway, so if you're just tuning in, let's not waste another moment! This is BIG!

Do you remember Dana @ Old Red Barn Co. and her amazing Quilt Giveaways? Well, she has truly outdone herself this time! Dana has planned a six week Quilt Along with weekly Give Aways. Go get a better look at this Grand Prize. Yup, it's the Janome 6600 sewing machine.

Told ya! Hold off all your Memorial weekend plans until you can get over to Old Red Barn and get signed up. Dana is going to give you impeccable instructions. I understand that you get extra points for using my Flights of Fancy fabric! I saw some of my e-stores at Quilt Market and they said they restocked the Flights of Fancy for this event.

Besides the wonderful Dana, I also wanted to introduce you to Sarah Pead, the graphic design student that worked on the artwork for this Give Away. I find Sarah's website fascinating, as she puts her actual school projects online. Boy that brings back memories! Go say hello.

I know I have so much more to share about Quilt Market, and lots of people to talk about, but this post became a priority. Maybe next week will truly be next week for me.

SPRING 2009 QUILT MARKET: PART ONE

For those of you who didn't make it to Spring 2009 Quilt Market or didn't make it over to my neck of the woods in the huge convention center, welcome to my humble booth. Today I will concentrate on the booth, then I'll do the gloriously amazing people next. How self-centered is that? Hugely, I admit, but also the first few of a hundred + pics on my camera.

I was given a 4x8 space this time, so instead of cramming it full, I chose to have a patchwork theme to represent the 40 new fabrics in the Summer Soiree Collection for Michael Miller. I can handle busy in a clean, organized kinda way, ya know? So here it is.

The ottoman is just a reflection of some fabrics in my new line and actually includes strike-offs (not the real deal) since I didn't have fabrics til the last minute. My man made this ottoman for ME and ultimately our family room! If I can figure out a way to come up with cool ottoman legs I'd love to provide an ottoman tutorial for you all. I love the big chunky balled legs and couldn't find them anywhere. I actually bought an ottoman and took the legs off to use on my own version, I was that desperate!! Anyone have some big, fat, round, layered ball legs (and not our own, my ladies) please let me know.

Next in the booth is this collage I made with various florals and base prints from the new Summer Soiree Collection with a bit of vintage lace encased in an IKEA frame. My inspiration came from the arrangement Kathy Miller sent me when I destroyed my arm/shoulder immediately after signing on w/MMF. All I know is that after such a severe break, I could only hope for some mobility. Dr's kept referring to my break as "bad; really bad". It is now my personal miracle. Seriously, I sign my name, paint and draw from the same arm that was totally not connected. What can I say? I still am amazed that planes can fly.

Here is my Oh Jackie! handbag that is soon to be a pattern. I have been refused entrance until I hand over the bag. Hope the pattern is hugely popular and available. Hows that for optimism?

A settee pillow. Yes, I will make this available. Do I lose sleep for nothing? Soon, very soon.

These are belts rolled on a cake plate. If you just buy them to wear these will make for a very pretty waistline!

This is a quilt that was within the MMF area. Hope the quilt pattern is available thru MMF.

SERIOUS SWOON FOR SUMMER SOIREE

IMPORTANT NOTE: Paula holds visuals in a much higher priority than words. If in this post you come across words, they are only value added. and only be used to enhance the visual.

MODEL: Jennifer Storey JEWELRY: Stella+Dot Happy Necklace and a HANDBAG: made by Simone of Gardenhouse using the new Summer Soiree fabric, vintage brooch and ribbon. Droll anyone?

It's hard to believe that it was a mere 7 months ago when I debuted Flights Of Fancy fabrics for Michael Miller. So many wonderful recorded memories, fabulous people and continued friendships. Now my crate for the upcoming Market is closed up and on it's way. I'm still working last minute and will hopefully have time to clean up my debris before heading for Pittsburgh. If you aren't going to Quilt Market in Pittsburgh (Let me know if you are!), we'll take good photos there and a much better reveal of the whole line once we return.

I have so admired Simone's handbags and clothes for some time, but when I got the first batch of goodies she's whipping up in Summer Soiree I literally teared up. Her workmanship is impeccable and so is her ability to mix it up. All her bags have vintage brooches, ribbons and a unique combination that is to die for. I ran a couple errands using one of the bags and got serious compliments. People coming to my studio are drooling over them ( I know, they clean up nicely though). She is also test sewing a bag that my husband helped me design...stay tuned for that one. All I'll show you for now is the handbag above and this adorable jumper modelled by my Miss Amelia.

Here's a pillow I'm working on. I love french chairs and am having quite a bit of fun making some collage pillows and artwork for the show.

Then I got a pleasant surprise yesterday when Kay Whitt sent me a couple quick pics of some things she's taking to Market. This is her Sophie Trench Coat pattern using my newly laminated Par Avion and Rain Dot in the Spring colorway. Whoa. Thank you Kay! I'll have to check on when the laminate will be up on the MMF site, but it is available. She told me it was great to work with. Yeah!! I can't wait to see that and another goodie she made with my new fabric.

Hope this has been enough to get you to wander over to my booth during Quilt Market. Lots more to see and learn about an amazing upcoming humungous giveaway. Yes, you heard me right. It'll knock your socks off. Okay, I know, you're probably not wearing socks. Just trust me.

BOOTH #2518 (within Michael Miller Fabrics area)

Schoohouse: 12:15 PM – 12:45 Room # 305

Lastly, you've got to go check out my Jennifer's blog. Whhaaa? Remember I was on the front of the March Carmel Magazine? Well, the crew took one look at my fashionable daughter and next thing I know she's on the cover of April's Hendricks Magazine. I gave her strict instructions to run if the photographer wanted to shoot UP at her. Well, she took mom's advise. Whatcha think? Much better material to start with and much better results.

Happy Mother's Day!

MORE SUMMER SOIREE

Here is the remainder of the Summer Soiree fabrics that arrived recently. On the left are the Best Friends (get it? Diamonds?) and on the right is Cufflink. We have been running around working on numerous projects and events, so a full reveal will be coming soon. Next week? I hope so! We are in the midst of a local Private show that started yesterday and goes for 2 more days. When this is over, I'll be back at the sewing machine and pulling all nighters.
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Oh, speaking of the sewing machine, here's a photo of Wyatt trying out a spot at the ol' machine.
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Lastly, thanks so much for the encouraging words you've left about Summer Soiree. Kind words go a long way, as you know. Right now, I'm riding on yours. xoxo
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THIS COULD BE THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD

Quilt Market is right around the corner now, so I spent the weekend sewing. I am on a patchwork kick these days. Works nicely since I want to show as many of my new fabrics as possible in a small space. This way I get to play with them all at once! I'm getting pretty excited. I know not all the fabricnistas will be there in Pittsburgh, but I'm so looking forward to seeing many of you again. Let me know if you're going.
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME

My birthday was this last Friday. It was a wonderful day. The new fabrics were here, God stopped the rain just for me, the sun was shining, and I was surrounded by friends and family.
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Most of you do not know much about my life. That's probably good. But the older I get, the more I realize I'm not as alone as I thought in having a crazy, sad childhood. See, I was passed among different family members, foster homes and ultimately became a ward of the state while I was in high school. I was clearly unwanted, unloved and unloveable. My birthday was not celebrated. In fact, I did not know my actual birth date until I was an adult and got a copy of my birth certificate. April 17. Not the 15th or 13th as I thought.

So you can imagine how tickled I am if I get so much as a birthday card. One of my dearest friends, Lisa, makes a card EVERY year, and I anticipate and cherish each one, especially because she hand delivers them. I feel so loved. My husband takes me to dinner and always has an incredible bouquet of flowers waiting at the table when we arrive. I notice that people are curious and look to see who the special person might be that finally arrives. I feel so very blessed. Here's a close-up of one beautiful rose in the large arrangement waiting for me.

I went from unloved and homeless to one happy gal. My faith has brought me a long way from those sad childhood days. I have learned to love, be loved, be a mom, wife, friend and the most awesome Mimi (grandma). That is a miracle, don't you think? That's why I'm so freakin blessed!

I got this "birthday card" from Anthropologie. I thought it was so creative...I had to show you.

Isn't it adorable? I somehow want to contact the Anthro people and personally thank them for their creativity.

So to all of you, thanks so much for your kudos. You keep me going! Hugs and kisses.