Some things are better than chocolate. A new 8 foot x 9 foot design wall is one of them.
Along with a felt-covered, core board backsplash above the pressing station.
And a wonderful puppy who got a tire rubber/rope toy from Santa. (Tractor Supply has the best toys for big dogs that actually last.)
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from Dolly and I. 
This may not look like much, but it means a LOT to me. It's the 2 x 4 support board upon which my design wall will hang. It's been waiting since July to go up. 
Somebody likes to be in the middle of everything including chaos. Currently I'm re-painting the opposite wall where the spray starch dissolved the paint. I'll put up some core-board insulation to protect that area. I'm hoping by January the room will be ready so I can sew again. 
I love my house, I really do. AND, this new furniture arrangement will allow me to set up my quilting table in front of the pellet stove. I've not finished a quilt in over 3 years and I'm 
But I've had to move all the rugs to the front porch for cleaning, then do the floor, and the baseboards . . . you know the routine.
The ceramic tree is up though, as the balcony is all done. I made this in 1984 and still enjoy it.
Found these recently at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. Now what to fill them with, hmmmm.
Still working on the mantle.
Dolly's wagon full of quilts, some waiting to be displayed. 
Lee Davis' blue and white pottery, Weaverville, NC.
Are these not the most gorgeous sunflowers! When I look at them, I see dancing, happy flowers cavorting in the breeze. Almost gleeful aren't they? I've never known an artist who could capture the great outdoors with such vividness as my friend Suzy. To see more of her work, head on over to http://artbysuzy.com/
I've never met a dragonfly like this one. Yet I forgot to ask it's name, as you can bet the artist, Katrina Miller, has come up with something fun and frivolous. I've shown Katrina's work before, so you know she makes the most wonderful Christmas ornaments also. To contact Katrina, just click on her name above.
Porcelain pottery with softly muted earth tones are a trademark of Marcia Bugg, long time resident of Brasstown, NC. If you're familiar with hand made pottery, then you're aware that glazes are a potters signature, and Marcia's unique talent with color is no exception. If you'd like to order a piece of pottery by Marcia, she can be reached through the folk school or e-mail me directly.
Utilitarian art is how I think of hand made chairs. Are these not exceptional pieces? If you work with wood, then you know the craftsmanship that goes into making such a functional item. Mr. Thomas Donahey has an eye for fine detail. To reach him, you may contact the folk school or e-mail me directly.
Do you recognize the technique? I didn't. But when I stopped by to chat with Pam Strawn, long time weaver, I learned that these are not only woven, but hand painted, sliced, woven, and framed. Pam's husband does the framing with native woods. I was impressed to say the least. To reach Pam, you may contact the folk school, or e-mail me.
Helen Gibson's figures are hand carved in amazing detail and show such a high degree of artistry, one can tell she's been perfecting her skill for many years. And she also happens to be a very nice lady. Helen did not give me her e-maill address; however, she can be reached through the Folk School.
These are hand built clay houses, simply adorable. 
My dear friend Louise displayed several beautiful potholders amongst her quilts. Far too pretty to actually use, but they would accent any quilters' kitchen. 
Mr. Libman is a local wood turner with a gallery in Andrews, NC. Anyone who admires beautiful wood would want this piece on their mantle. (www.woodbowls.net) 
If you've ever had the opportunity to watch a blacksmith at work, then you have an idea of the skill and endurance forge work requires. These tools were hand forged by Elmer Roush and are the perfect gift for anyone who loves high quality tools. Elmer can also be reached through the Folk School. 
with a glitter of tinsel decorating the trees.
All we needed was a sleigh to enjoy this winter wonderland. 
I already have "the pony." Who managed to get into mischief once again by carting off and breaking the bucket meant to hold the Christmas tree. 
I borrowed this photo from the Quilt Study Center, as I wanted to share something red and green, as well as inspirational.
Dolly is keeping a close eye out for any airmen bucking protocol.
Dolly is stationed at her post and on the lookout. 
Recently when cleaning the fridge, I made up "soup packets" by chopping, dicing and slicing cabbage, carrots, celery, and onions. Exactly what I had in the veggie drawer.
Dolly loves the smell of soup cooking.
Ohhh alright, Dolly loves the smell of anything cooking, as she knows she's going to get a taste.
Until then, keep stitchin' . . .
it did show up on the cabbage plants in garden,
meanwhile Dolly tried to hide her disappointment that it wasn't snow . . . .
Now on to the next project, which was begun in September. Old iron bed purchased in 1993.
Using spray on paint stripper, gloves, and scraping tool, I managed to get most of the white paint removed. 
Now I'm using 60-grit sandpaper on my palm sander to remove the remaining rust and paint. More pictures to come.
Meanwhile Dolly waits patiently for her mom to finish.
Until then, keep stitchin' . . .
Alien beings discovered in vicinity. Before interrogation could commence, they took flight. Informants verify they dwell in a body of water known as a lake, form close knit groups, and are known for cacophonous rants if threatened. Detailed report to follow.
Work detail commenced on completing 7 windows in 2 days. View from the observatory, verifies no pitbulls in sight.
3 remaining windows received 2nd coat. Thorough sanding was in order due to cracks in the sill boards.
Four-legged companion waited anxiously for work detail to end so truck ride and trip to Arby's could commence. Detailed report to follow.
