Playing with color . . . yes, every single one.

Do you remember last year when Patti shared with us that wonderful tutorial on Crumb Chaos Blocks or Mile-A-Minute blocks? I was very impressed with her ability to use up so many of her crumbs.

Then back in May, Lynn shared with us a wonderfully simple layout that really inspired me.
This is what happens when you try to clean up a project box. Too many need pieces and parts. Finally, I managed to focus on just one project tonight.











Ater much pressing, folding, sorting and sewing, another QOV top comes together. This one is bright, cheerful, and just the right size for napping.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Small squares, BIG impact.

Some quilts need to evolve over time. Not because there are other quilts to make (well okay, maybe a little), but collecting a variety of colors does not happen overnight. The bright yellow square is from the 1970s and in the second row, on the right, is a small flowered print with black background that was left over from an Easter outfit I made in 1979.
Bit by bit, block units have been sewn together over time and were tucked away in a box . . . or 2. Recently I decided it's time to begin my next American chain quilt. Oh the excitment of seeing it all come together. Finally.

Still stringin' along . . .

Dear friend Louise was kind enough to take the pre-trimmed sashings, borders, and squares home recently in order to assemble one of the last QOV projects. We're almost done folks!

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

And you thought I was sipping something cool by the pool

Do you remember this project which I began last summer? It was one of those "get-it-done quick" ideas. You know for a fact that when you leave quilt blocks alone in a box in a dark room, they start multiplying. I guess I should call this my "tribble" project. Many thanks to Karen and Louise for donating weekend time to help with assembling. Also thanks to Sammie, Susan, Diane, Louise, and Kathy for border fabric donations.

Yes, these will be part of the QOV package which will be mailed out before the end of the year. You have my word on it. Where's it going . . . I'll keep you posted. Will there be a give-away contest including the leftover blocks . . . stay tuned. More fun and adventure in quilt land await you.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .

Ye Olde Fudge Pan

Recently, I came across my mother's fudge pans. Isn't it amazing how such a simple utilitarian item conjours up smells, tastes, and images of the past. How often do we associate a favorite recipe with women who introduced us to the joys of baking and sharing. And aren't we lucky to have that intrinsic connection of food, laughter, and love.


Tender Fudge Layer Cake (for a 2-layer cake, double the recipe)

1-3/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter - softened
1-1/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 squares unsweetened chocolate melted or 1/2 cup dry chocolate powder
1 cup ice water

Stir together flour, baking soda, and salt, set aside. In large mixing bowl cream butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla at high speed until fluffy. Stir in chocolate. On low speed add flour mixture with water. Blend well. Pour into well greased 8" pan.

Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. Cool and frost with your favorite icing.