A New Baby...

...and why I need a new Baby Lock Melody sewing machine!

First things first...

the new baby, Ansley

A dear friend's first grandbaby...we've known and loved the Mommy since she was 5 years old :)

Secondly...

the new baby quilt

stripes and big tulip bouquets on the back

Using what I had on hand for the backing.  Even though it may not be the prettiest, there is a certain satisfaction that comes with making something work that might not work at all under normal circumstances.  And it all works out fine in the end!

I love the old peachy/brown stripe that I used for the back and binding.  It came from a trunk in a family's attic.  I don't know why, but it makes me think of my Grandfather and his wonderful home and his nice clothes and things.

Thirdly...

That's right, the Bloggers Quilt Festival at Amy's Creative Side....such an amazing event, and twice a year!  I didn't think I would have a quilt to share, but here I am! Yay!!!

 Baby Ansley's quilt measures 45" x 45", and is made from a variety of "vintage" 80's and 90's fabrics.
 I used the Fat Quarter Shop's "Jelly Roll Jam" quilt pattern, and added some borders to help brighten up those old fabrics!

And last but not least, "Why I need a new Baby Lock sewing machine!":

   I think if you look closely at the machine quilting you will see that a wonderful new Baby Lock would help immensely in improving my skill set!  Before I even knew there was a chance to win one, I kept thinking as I struggled with it, that It would sure be nice to have a few of those "modern" features, like needle down, and adjustable needle placement etc.

And ever since I learned of this fun giveaway opportunity, this song has been running through my head, with an obvious minor lyric adjustment...the Supremes...Baby "Lock"... 

Enjoy the Quilt Festival!  I know I certainly am!  Thanks SO much to Amy and all of the sponsors and everyone who participates to make this such an exciting event!!! 

I just LOVE it!!!!

my own little "fabric parade"...

what a sweet way to start the day!  

HoneyHoney... my favorite Kate collection!!!! 

love!!!!!

a little Lotta and my very first Bonnie&Camille!

a veritable birthday bouquet, from my sweetie!

It all started with a simple little sale at Intrepid Thread, which happened to time out beautifully with my then upcoming birthday.  As I swooned over discount yardage of Honey Honey, (of which I already have 2 charm packs and a definite plan) my own sweet honey honey suggested it might make for a suitable, and realistic birthday present!  I didn't argue...he is almost always quite sensible! We picked up the pleasingly hefty parcel in town yesterday, and I waited to open it til today!  It didn't hurt that Julie and her staff always package their fabrics so nicely, and the surprise charm squares just added the sweetest touch!

Ahhh...isn't it all so pretty?!   

Some September Highlights

We returned to our river bottom home in central Montana in August.  As we establish a new (bed & breakfast) business, begin the new (home)school year, and the new hunting season, we've found our lives to be in the midst of "breathless", "breath-taking", and "taking a breather"! Whew!

Back to bird hunting....

and racing the rain home.

some "new" boots...

...and a new ride

morning walks

where our UPS man is one of the finest men in the state!

super skies

morning mists

perks of the long trail home

the yellow was tangible!

doing what he does...

where they love to be

putting all that manliness to good use ...

weep line, check!

"country road, take me home"

what all the excitement is about!

what morning looks like at my house

new shoes for the new "Breaks Runner"

these give me the "Mom shivers"

quickie curtains, for the "bunk room"

a quickie baby quilt (still in progress)

and a chicken flashback! The boys with Bill, Penny and Crybaby circa 2005

Along with several guests and long distance calls and a new bathroom(!) and other projects in the works, it has been a very full month!  I can't wait to see what October holds for us!


Yesterday just got away from me....and I forgot to post this then!  So here it is today, the first of October! :)
(It's a little embarrassing, really! :) )