Dizzy Daze

Want it, Need it, Quilt!: Free BOM - Penny Rug

2012-01-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

Want it, Need it, Quilt!: Free BOM - Penny Rug

Blog Hop Win.

2011-12-17T15:08:00.000-08:00

Entered probably 200 giveaways during the Blog Hop Party (see earlier post). Won four PDF patterns from
sewjoycreations.com by Sarah Vanderburgh. They are Selvage JOY Pillow, Primitive Joy, Fa La La Letters, and Eat With Joy. Go to her blog for pictures.

Thank you Sarah for the patterns and participating in the Blog Hop Party.

Building houses from scrap: November 2011

2011-12-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

http://buildinghousesfromscraps.blogspot.com/2011_11_01_archive.html

This is the link for a blog where ladies are signing up to do a house quilt with the bloggers own pattern for 2012. Their goal is a house a day but that is not required. Go check it out. You have to read the translations. I'm going to do some. Let me know if you join.

Quilting Gallery

2011-12-12T04:58:00.000-08:00

Quilting Gallery Click this link for the Blog Hop Party all week.

Sponsor Highlight – Fat Quarter Shop & Giveaway |

2011-12-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Sponsor Highlight – Fat Quarter Shop & Giveaway | Check out this giveaway and you might

win some quilting goodies.

Follow here if you would, too.

DIY Holiday Gifts Advent Calendar - Feature - Food News - CHOW

2011-12-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

This link id for a whole month of stitching:

DIY Holiday Gifts Advent Calendar - Feature - Food News - CHOW Another great Advent calender of ideas. Are you following?

Knook Now Giveaway - Leisure Arts

2011-11-30T10:07:00.000-08:00

Knook Now Giveaway - Leisure Arts free entry

Quilt-opoly

2011-11-30T07:45:00.000-08:00

Quilt-opoly And Stitch-opoly are on sale right now at DMC for 9.99. Catch a deal.

Martingale

2011-11-23T06:54:00.001-08:00

I had my choice of free downloadable books. I chose "Applique Quilt Revival: Updated Patterns from the 30s" by Nancy Mahoney. Its funny how there was no hurry but I chose right away anyway. Fun.

I Won

2011-11-22T17:43:00.000-08:00

Martingale & Company Martingale has a weekly Quirky Question to answer and you can win a prize.

My answer won this past week. You can click the link to go see.

DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011 ~ DROPS Design

2011-11-22T14:52:00.000-08:00

DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011 ~ DROPS Design I hope all the knitters and crocheters are

getting ready for the workshop. I follow it every year. Fun, free, inspires creativity.

Spool Advent Calendar Kits | Just Something I Made

2011-11-16T14:33:00.000-08:00

Spool Advent Calendar Kits | Just Something I Made

This is adorable even for stitching grown ups. Very adaptable for different ideas.

Crafty News

2011-11-13T15:21:00.001-08:00

First of all, I have won two issues of "100 Blocks by Quiltmaker". If they don't mess up, I will be giving the second one to my quilty friend for Christmas.

Second, the coaster pattern made onto Crochet Pattern Central.

Third, I went to quilting on Sat and then Jill and I went to America's Thrift Store. She sweetly got me "The Book Of Wool" and an embroidery stitch book. Also, a cute spring purse. I purchased a vintage bowl but can't read the makers mark on bottom.

Fourth, I emailed Michelle Edwards and she emailed Lion Brand. Ta Da! You can access a new
card from her recent Yarn Love story. Card ( to send card go to here to start) Story

Last, I got to look through needlework mags at BN today and loved that.

If your reading, please follow and comment. I love seeing traffic. Hugs.

Star Coaster with Poms

2011-11-11T15:07:00.001-08:00

Here is my first public crochet pattern. It is a coaster but the first one was more like a candle mat since I used double yarn. I was inspired by the request for Christmas coasters from our local hospice. We are making them to go on the meal trays or bedsides. I did it in white but it would be very cute done in red with white poms to look like Santa hats in a circle. Also you could try school colors like blue star, orange pom for Auburn or crimson star, white pom for Ala. Adapts to any school. Would also be great in sparkly jiffy thread.

Well, let me know how it comes out or if there are any mistakes. Also, send pix and I will post.

StarCoaster w/Pompoms

by RachelBates

Materials: Any worsted weight yarn

US G hook

Pattern:

Center: Chain 6. Join w sl st in first sc to form ring.

Row 1: Sc 6 times in ring. Ch 1. 6 stitches

Row 2: Sc 2 times in each sc around. Ch 1. 12 stitches.

Row 3: Loosely sc 2 times in each scaround. Sc in side of first sc of row two. Ch 1. 25 stitches.

Points: (first point continues yarn from end ofCenter Row 3. Next four you must joinyarn in first sc to the left (RS) of previous point)

Row 1: Sc in top of next 5 stitches. Ch 1. Turn.

Row 2: Sc in first 4 sc. Sk lastsc. Ch 1. Turn.

Row 3: Skip first sc. Sc in next 3sc. Ch1. Turn.

Row 4: Skip first sc. Sc in next 2sc. Ch1. Turn.

Row 5: Skip first sc. Sc in nextsc. Fasten Off.

Finish: Attach ahandmade or purchased pompom to ends of points.

PDF is here.

101 Days of Christmas

2011-11-11T14:11:00.000-08:00

101 Days of Christmas Wonderful easy ideas. Looking for where I put the coaster pattern. Sorry. Have pix.

Wishlist Page - ConnectingThreads.com - Exclusive Quilting Fabric, Quilting Thread, Quilting Kits, Patterns & Quilt Supplies

2011-11-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

Wishlist Page - ConnectingThreads.com - Exclusive Quilting Fabric, Quilting Thread, Quilting Kits, Patterns & Quilt Supplies

Sharing my wish list to enter sweepstakes. You can do it too.

100 Blocks Blog Tour

2011-11-09T13:58:00.000-08:00

100 Blocks Blog Tour: Day 3 Giveaway | Quilty Pleasures Blog Are you following?

Found It!

2011-11-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

Found the camera. Typing up the pattern. Going to Friendship Quilter's on Sat. Three of the ladies sent me "miss you" cards. Isn't that sweet? Year is almost over. Freefalling into Christmas. Ahhhhhh. LOL.
Pattern tomorrow.

More Highlights

2011-11-08T14:41:00.000-08:00

http://quiltinggallery.com/tag/celebrate-christmas/ get all the blocks. Great variety.

Want to Highlight

2011-11-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Want to highlight Simply Christmas Button. You can follow daily for tips, giveaways, and planning. Very helpful. Also, http://www.simplecrafter.com/ is running 31 Days of Inspiration.

I am BACK!!

2011-11-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

What a summer and fall. We lost our mobile home to the tornadoes in April (Alabama) and now six months later we are in a HUD home that had no utilities to start, plus missing fixtures, ceiling tiles and we had no appliances after the storm.
We are now up to one plumbed bathroom, lights in three rooms, trunk outlets and extension cords, and an almost plumbed kitchen sink. We also have a washer, dryer, stove and fridge all working and a dishwasher on the way. Pictures and progress is on Facebook if you want to FB me. Leave me a comment if you need help with that.
As far as needlework is concerned, I had my sewing machine out at my MILs in August and did some small projects. One which was a disaster due to my stress level. Right now I can knit and crochet if I buy yarn but can't get to my stash. Thus I am finishing projects that were in my bags and have done some hospice coasters with donated yarn.
This week I bought some Red Heart and created a very cute (not-for-guys) star coaster. I am trying to locate my camera for pix. If that doesn't work I will get my friend Jill to take pix next Wed. Then I can post the pix and pattern for download. My first endeavor at my own pattern.
I want to get some traffic to this site with some of my own patterns and then do a BOM for quilting next year sometime. If readers will help with that it would be great.

Travel plans and baby gift

2011-07-07T07:23:00.001-07:00

I am making a little purse for a one year's birthday; will post a pic when its done. also heading to knoxville next week. getting to spend time with designer Marjorie Post and her daughters Jill and Becky. All quite brilliant. Like hanging out with celebs.

style find

2011-06-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Trying this out from BzzLabs thru BzzAgent. I really was impressed at the sale alerts available and the trend pages. They tell u what the trend is, show you the look, tell you how to work it for you and can sell u the "look" if your interested.
I am no longer much of a fashion girl but was bak in the day with Lord & Taylor and Steketee's (MI). Would have been a buyer and I can tell you this is what buyers know ahead of you. Check it out and you can register for a vaca sweepstakes.

about.me

2011-06-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

check this. 50 MOO business cards free w/sign up. I am participating in a BzzAgent campaign

Blogging On

2011-04-14T18:21:00.000-07:00

gonna get back to this. had an interesting day. started couponing again. will see how it goes. also, watched an adorable french movie (PG-ish) called "Amelie". tomorrow spending the day at Stitches South with my LYS, "In the Making" I'll tell u all about it.

Won the Giveaway!

2011-01-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

Free Pretty Things For You gaveaway a Martha Stewart punch set and I won. Thank you very much to their blog and sponsors. Please visit for yourself.

Lovely Start

2011-01-03T07:28:00.000-08:00

Jan 3 and a nice start to the day and the year. I'm up and around, coffee on, cats settling for naps, and looking forward to a new year of faith, quilts, and fun. I hope to see some serious growth as a quilter and needle artist this year. My oldest will be graduating from HS in May. My youngest will start driving. Hubby has a solid job this year and that means a set schedule etc.

Ok. I just had to break to clean up coffee I spilled and feed cats that I thot had been fed. Well, still, soldier on. My sweet friend gave me her mothers serger yesterday so I am going to learn about that in the next months and I have many ideas in my head. Stay in touch and press forward.

Rachel

Difinitely Dizzy

2010-12-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

Well, looks like the Pleasant Home thing is finished but you can go check it out anyway. More later.

Rachel in Dixie

Fun, Two Ways

2010-12-03T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hi. There are two things to check out on the new buttons at the side. One is Pleasant Home Sew Scraps Along. Ideas and organization for scraps and how to use them. Also, Holly Jolly Blog Bingo from The Quilt Shoppe. Follow the directions carefully so you don't miss out on anything. Merry Christmas!!

Rachel in Dixie

Great Resource

2010-10-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

Benita Skinner has a great new looking website giving you access to free patterns for quilters.

Go to Free Quilt Patterns. She has a lot of great info.

Ok. time to write

2010-09-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

Well, last week I was on quilt retreat with the Friendship Quilters Guild in Pell City, AL. We had a ton of great demos with take-it kits and I still haven't done all of them. No pix up yet but I am finishing Christmas presents and making stuff for two craft fairs. If you don't know about Esther Alieu's Blogs and BOMs check out the Christmas button on my blog. She is a master artist with great applique expression. Tomorrow I will put up pix of the last of the Early Birds for the whole challenge. This was a great motivator and will keep me looking forward for a long while.

Whoever is reading this, tell me some ideas for increasing my readership. Be blunt. I can take it. Happy sewing!!

Rachel

hi all

2010-09-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

back from quilt retreat which was nice. more of everything coming up

Correction

2010-08-26T20:37:00.000-07:00

I showed the slippers but didnt count them. That's 126. Whew. I am almost done.

Items done in Aug for Early Birds

2010-08-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hi all. I have been storming along and have finished the following:

3 tea towels (pre-printed)
5 neck pillows
4 Christmas applique pillows
2 knitted coffee cozies with matching coin purse
1 set of bracelets
3 knitted coin purses
1 stuffed crocheted clock

to my count that should total 125. Pictures are on here randomly because I'm in a hurry.

Promotion you can love.

2010-08-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

"Art of the Letter" blog is sharing a custom letterhead for a blog post. Very nice. Thank you "Art".

Personal Gifts

2010-08-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

Took me awhile to retrieve things I'd left in Pell City. I am sewing madly and have finished five more gifts. I will try to borrow a camera tonite so I can show stuff by Friday. It is going to be very cool to have so many gifts done before holiday season. I love it. Ta.

Early Bird Report

2010-07-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

I made 10 more ornaments, a tawashi, two stockings, and a pillow. Totaling 104 but only four are Home Decor.

SIL comes to the rescue

2010-07-19T18:22:00.001-07:00

Hi all. My SIL let me borrow her sewing machine so I have been able to finish some more ornaments and two very large decorative stockings. I have a little pillow half done and am still working on finishing 20 mini gifts. Hubby says pix tomorrow. That puts me at 100 mini's done and two Home Decor done. ( Total 102) Have to say with all the chaos of broken and lost items and re-doing our floor plans it is hard to keep working. I confused someone with my Dix nickname so I will use my given name. Love to all.

Rachel

"Mini Success"

2010-06-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

In June, I finished 90 mini gifts and half of twenty more. Thank you to Judith and the Early Bird Christmas Challenge. Click on the button at side to see more of her blog. My phone obviously takes poor pix so I will have to get hubby to use his Blackberry so you can see.

July is for making Home Decor gifts which I have picked out already. Tomorrow I start on them and there are five or six I think. Hubby brilliantly fixed the sewing machine. Super awesome guy!

Dix

Update

2010-06-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

I have sixty ornaments done since I found some I had made and set aside. Pix Monday. I am going to borrow my DSIL's machine to get finished since I have about the same to go for mini-gifts. What is next month's theme? Well, I need to find my list. Have a good weekend.

Dix

25 ornaments done: Applique

2010-06-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

Nifty Fifty

2010-06-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

I got 50 ornament backgrounds sewn and turned. Tomorrow or monday I can press and applique. My sewing machine broke a spring so I hope I can get it fixed. Followers please leave comments to encourage the project. I would appreciate it.

Dix

Started

2010-06-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

I prepared patterns and traced foundations today. Still have some to do but tomorrow's another day. I tried to put them thru the printer but then the foundation paper jammed the printer. O well. I'll have about eighty ornaments and thirty needle strawberries. I'll need to come up with something easy for twenty more mini's.

Slow Progress

2010-06-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today I got a Santa cut out that is really for HD but this evening I will be able to start tracing for applique and copying for paper piecing. Will try a picture of the fabric and stuff tomorrow morning when there is better light. Maybe tomorrow I can check out some other blogs tomorrow. No one is checking here I think.

Dix

Doing the Math

2010-06-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I figured out what I am making to get started but I also realized I have twenty more mini's to add. I am going to be paper piecing ornaments and making needle strawberries too. If that gets old I will make some other things.
Guild mtg sew day on Sat so that will add some time. Is anyone else climbing a mountain?

I'm Baaack With a MIssion

2010-06-07T18:36:00.001-07:00

Hi out there. I am joining in on the Early Birds Crafting Group. I am also following Make A Bag (see both buttons). I journaled in the back of my master organizer so I can keep everything together. I finally assigned categories to all gifts to give and I need 110 mini's. Good Grief. I hope I can turn them out quickly. The Personal gifts are 9 but they all take longer. HD is five I think and Outdoor, one. Is anyone else shocked by their list? Will keep you updated on my progress.
Love to all.

Dix

Wed, Another Homekeepers

2010-03-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

In My Kitchen …. new breadmaker. Tomorrow we bake.

With my Family … trying to institute guidelines for teens time with friends and girlfriends.

What I’m Reading … still Mosaic Law and Ephesians, past halfway with Shannon by Frank Delaney.

An area where I wish I was stronger … communication.

What I’ve Been Noticing … that feral cats are more self-limiting in number than we think.

A character from literature that I would bring to life if I could… Molitor Patel "Pi"

On The Back Burner of My Mind …offering hospitality regularly.

In The Deepest Darkest Recesses …how to show empathy without arrogance.

Well, If at First You Don't Succeed...

2010-03-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

Back trying this again. Linny, I lost your address so please resend and I will post your ornaments. I am going to be posting an entry for homekeepers once a weed I think. The big priority right now is healthy living and an organized house. Tall orders for a short girl. If you think of me pray for my improvement. Love to all.

Dix

Homekeeping Journal Entry

2010-03-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

Here’s What’s happening …..

In My Kitchen ...Andy is making brownies. I am going to set up the new breadmaker.

With Our Marriage …. we are trying to spend quality time together when we have some. Romance is at a low point but we are very compatible in our thinking.

With The Children ….. Noah is hating the slowness of his classes. Andy is challenged in keeping up with the workload.

What I’m Reading … Leviticus, Ephesians, Shannon by Frank Delaney , My Cat Spit Mcgee by Willie Morris

What I Have Been Learning … not to second guess, to look for the best in people who have proven themselves in the past to be a true friend, to let go of stress and hurt as quickly as possible.

What I’ve Been Noticing …. to compare my priorities with my schedule and make changes that better reflect the priorities.

Something that pleases me … Starbucks campaign on bold coffees.

On The Back Burner of My Mind …. preparing the house to add my mother as a resident.

In The Deepest Darkest Recesses …. resisting God's holding pattern in my life right now.

Advent gifts so far!

2009-12-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

Cheryl-lee ( with Deb's help?) sent wonderful advent gifts. These are the pix so far.

The Winner!

2009-12-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

Will I googled the random generator and linny is our winner. linny you need to send me your info so I can send you the ornaments. You didn't have an email available so I hope you are watching.

Dix

New Products and a Giveaway

2009-11-30T13:47:00.000-08:00

My puter time is running out. Leave a comment for one chance and become a follower to get four chances. The winner chooses one of the red ornament sets pictured. Comments can start Dec 1st and end Dec 6. Other styles and colors are in the Etsy store.

Success

2009-11-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

I finally have it all working again. And I am delighted to show you the ornaments I received in the Thimbleprims ornament swap. The snow person is from Ornie Sue of Rabbit Hollow, the puzzle piece one is from Mollye Self of mizmollye and the two glittery ones are from Vintage Soul. What a delightful mix.

Pow, Pow, Pow!

2009-11-22T14:06:00.000-08:00

Been fighting with the computer. Grrrr. Should have a post and pix up tomorrow. Don't forget to watch for the giveaway that starts Dec. 1 and will be drawn Dec. 3.

Love to all.

Dix

Check out this giveaway.

2009-11-20T09:55:00.000-08:00

Beautiful folded stars at Grateful Prayer and Thankful Heart. They're called Moravian Stars or Froebel Stars. Very pretty.

Dix

First One

2009-11-19T08:41:00.000-08:00

Well the first handmade item is in the shop. I'm very excited. Please spread the word about Dizzyneedle. http://www.etsy.com/shop/dizzyneedle

Come to Dizzyneedle!!!!!!!!

2009-11-17T12:07:00.000-08:00

My Etsy store is up! Dizzyneedle is loaded with yards of lace, very pretty. Within the next few days I will be loading a crocheted scarf. And Dec. 1 watch for a giveaway.

Become a follower and you will be able to keep up with the changes. Any suggestions would be appreciated on whatever.

Love to all.
Dix.

Wha' Snappenin'

2009-11-16T10:46:00.000-08:00

My angel, Anne Heidi, sent my Angel Swap gifts. Her blog is Piece by Piece. She did a lovely job on a journal, pincushion, and needle/stitch case.

Also, I finished this grocery bag yesterday. The center was a kit abandoned in a thrift store and the red fabric is bottles and cans of kitty groceries.

Waiting for my paypal to update so I can post to etsy. That should be tomorrow.

Have a good day.

Dix

Check out "Block Party"

2009-11-03T07:03:00.000-08:00

If any of you follow Oh, Franson you will remember her quilt along blocks. This is a giant success and you can join and follow at Block Party blog. Here is the link:
http://www.blockpartyquilting.com/

This is a super opportunity for new quilters.

Dix

Some Pix, More to Come

2009-10-23T08:35:00.000-07:00

These are some pix of things I am working on. More quilting ones will be up next week.

The tulip is my first paper piecing.

The Chrismas blocks are my next ones.

Then, I have knitted a dishcloth and am working on a baby blanket.

Dix Wins!

2009-09-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

Guess what? I won a giveaway at Sweet Tidings from her sponsor Flirtbuttons. These are fabric covered mirrors. So cool. Flirtbuttons has all kinds of neato ideas for stocking stuffers. Check out both these places and thank yous all around.

Dix

Angel Item pix

2009-09-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Natalia was sweet to send me pix since I forgot to take some. She is at http://sewingmamusia.blogspot.com

How sweet and appreciative she is. Love Angel Swap. This is the bag Helen showed us and a needlecase, puffy pincushion, and key fob.

Great Giveaway at Sweet tidings

2009-09-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

Sweet Tidings, http://sweettidings.blogspot.com/2009/09/sweet-tidings-sponsor-giveaway.html

is having a great giveaway from their sponsor Flirtbuttons from Etsy. Go to Sweet Tidings and follow the links and directions. You never know what new things you might find.

Angel Package is on the Way

2009-09-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

Natalia Ryng was my person to Angel give and her pkg will be there Sat or Mon. Pix if she send me some, I forgt to take any. Love swaps.

Also if you haven't caught up with Gum Tree Designers, follow my button and get in the party.

Love to all.
Dix

Friend of Gum Tree

2009-09-15T08:32:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone. How exciting it is to find the new launch of the "Among the Gum Tree" designers collaboration from Austrailia. I am a big fan of Aussie quilters and stitchers and this is a true treat. Sign up for giveaways at all designers blogs this week. And say thank you in every way you can.

A new BOM coming from Dorothy Baker

2009-09-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

"Sweet Nostalgia" will start soon and meantime there is a giveaway. Visit Dorothy's blog by clicking on the link in the sidebar. I can't wait to see all the designs.

Hear it is!

2009-08-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

This is the trivet for Audrey. It is hand quilted and handmade yo yos are hand stiched to the edge. I also sent her 50 fabric circled to make her own yo yo creation.

Something Made, Something 2B Made Sent

2009-08-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

Hi all.
Sent Audrey her package today. Will post a picture in the next few days but it is for her kitchen and I hope it fits her. Yo-yo's are involved and that's all I can say for now. Lovin' the swappin'.

Dix

Swap Arrived

2009-08-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

My swap gift arrived from the Make Something, Something 2B Made swap. Audrey Schneider made a reversable apron and two oven mitts. The apron has my first initial on it. Then she also sent two yards of the coordinating fabrics for the 2B Made part. I can make anything to match.Wonderful sewing skills. Big thanks to Audrey.

Jenny's Giveaway

2009-08-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

Hi all. Check out Jenny's giveaway. She is ready for Christmas and you can be too.
Go here: http://elefantz.blogspot.com/2009/08/christmas-package-of-stitches-and.html

Swap Time is Here!

2009-07-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Cool swaps starting up. See swapdex.com. Click on the buttons at left. Have fun.

Christmas in July Giveaway

2009-07-10T16:03:00.000-07:00

Check out this new giveaway. Click on the button at left and go enter. I love Christmas. I've been FB so much I have neglected blog. Sorry. Hope to improve.

Have given up the Etsy idea. Chris thinks will not pay well enough. Pray for wisdom for me.

Dix

Good Morning

2009-05-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

I am finally going to finish some sewing this week. Why does life get in the way? Well, between animals, kids, and husbands, someone is always messing up my "schedule". Sooooooooo, we start over again. Had to wash all the partially done things I showed you because of the cats and this week is going to be busy but I am trying to come up with a new strategy. Pix tomorrow and I have to tell you about my guild meeting.
Remember I couldn't go to the retreat? Well all those ladies made me a goodie bag with patterns and fat quarters and eighths and candy and gadgets and that was so sweet. But they also gave me the quilt they made out of blocks from each lady. Ohh, I was so surprised and touched. Still teary when I think about it. My guild ladies are just precious and I am so blessed I found them.

Dix

Monday, Monday, la la

2009-04-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

Well, the weekend is over but my dh had to stay in GA one more day. He'll be home before Tues morning but that's as specific as it got. Miss him. Took an easy day today and hope to get busy tomorrow so I can sew the rest of the week. Researched Etsy some more and will probably do it soon. My angle is to take abandoned UFO's and repurpose to sell. If you would like to donate any abandoned project pieces just email me.

My husband's brother and my sister have both donated funds for use during unemployment and an anonymous donor sent food. Also, some church ladies donated some desserts and snacks. Many people have offered their prayers. We are so honored to receive the love.

Hope all retreaters had a great time. I will be working on the newsletter Wed. Love to all.

Dix

Bummer

2009-04-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't get to go to the retreat because my dh forgot to tell me about an appointment Fri AM. Stinks out loud.

I'm finally home and wish I could do nothing but housework is constant. Cats are fired up and running the halls. Dog just a pain.

Well, maybe I can sew tomorrow? Wish i had a porch to enjoy the weather. See ya Mon.

Dix

What I'm Working On + Buttons

2009-04-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

I am working on things in batches and talking about an Etsy Shop. What do you think? Answer the Poll on the side. I want to call it the Dizzy Needle.

These are the buttons and earrings Laura Figiel swapped from www.glueandglitter.com

This is a table runner waiting for the border. Blocks were won at guild meeting.

Another table runner waiting for border. Blocks were preprinted and found in thrift store.

This is a lap quilt I am hand piecing. You can see I ran out of fabric in the next picture so I must shop. (sometime)

This is a pillow front I just finished. The monster is a pattern from www.homeberries.com.

I did it in glow-in-the-dark floss and the ghost flannel is thrift store scrap.

This is four of five blocks rescued from the thrift store and bordered. Ready to quilt this.

And when I get some AAs I will show you a couple more.

Time Flies

2009-04-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

When your not having so much fun, also. My dh and I have been job hunting and trying to survive the high prices. I am finally back to some sewing. I finished sewing the pink knit purse and today I think I will sew the linings. I am also sewing some table runners and such to sell. Pix forthcoming.

We have had many blessings this week and are really getting a second chance at new things. I am honored to be on scholarship to the guild retreat at the end of this month. Hoping to put my birthday money to some fun.

If you know me and want to FB with me I'm there. My youngest created a flair that says "Facebook: now with old people". The oldest people I seen have been under sixty. Kids.

Well I feel full of love and happiness today and although I know life is not about feelings I am walking high.

Dix

I'm a wanderer, justa wanderer, wander round.......

2009-03-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Can't keep focused lately. Missing meds is probably the reason.

Today I am finally home and choosing my own day. (Spring break boggles the mind. ) So I am catching up, starting over, renewing, etc.

Gonna quilt with my friend on Fri at her house with no distractions. Can't wait.

Today, I'm cutting and doing laundry. Nooo, not cutting the laundry. he he. and I have a pic of the buttons from the swap for tomorrow and hopefully some others.

Nothing really new here but I'm sure it will pick up.

Back in the Swing

2009-03-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to a guild sewing day and it was soooo restorative. I need women who are happy and I need to sew uninterupted. Woot, as my oldest would say. I should have pics this afternoon. This is also the start of Spring Break and we are finally getting some of the rest we have sorely needed. Won't burden you with our troubles but suffice to say we're scraping and it got us down.
Also, I have gotten on Facebook and am loving it but it made me lazy about blogging. Sorry. Today, I want to get to finish the cutting I started yesterday and sew tomorrow. With boys home it actually might happen.
Happy St. Pat's to all too.

Dix

Kathy Sent Treasures

2009-02-12T07:35:00.000-08:00

Kathy sent wonderful treasures This is a devotional book, different from the original book and I have already been inspired by just one verse on the face page.

This is a beautiful handpainted bamboo/cotton fingering yarn. I love purples and pinks and this runs the range. I'm thinking of maybe a beautiful beaded scarf.

These are adorable fragrances, "knit" and "purl" by happyhousewifesoap.com. I was enchanted and put some on each wrist immediately.

This is a fair isle style mug cozy and pink yarn spun by Kathy's friend. I am so honored.

This is a dishcloth of Kathy's own design called "sprinkles". I have a pink kitchen so it fits right in.

My wonderful kitty "Blah Buddy". She is so cute that my thirteen year old son said he needs a "Blah Buddy".

Wonderful dark hot cocoa that I have already had almost all of it. I am addicted and was so impressed she found dark.

Kitty stitch markers. I've only had plastic rings so this is sooo awesome. She bought them on Etsy and each one is a little different. How sweet.

This joy plaque is especially cool because it has an Old Testament and New Testament scripture. Very needed.

Size 2 DPN for my hope of making sox.

The card she handmade that explained all my gifts. So very sweet. Kathy was so thoughtful and she said she prayed for me the whole time which is a wonderful gift in itself.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Kathy.

Cocoa Swap Goodies

2009-02-11T18:41:00.000-08:00

These are things I made for Paula. The rest I bought. Tomorrow I will be able to put up pix of all the wonderful things I got from Kathy.

Cocoa Topic #3

2009-01-27T09:21:00.000-08:00

I sure have been a little clueless in this swap but here it is. I love them all. If its marshmallows I love little ones best and want them to melt into a seal. But I also sometimes add more halfway down. Fluff is great, too. And I love a pile of whipped cream so that it can melt and still be there. I could drink hot cocoas all day. Cocoa-craaaaazy. LOL

Pix as Promised

2009-01-26T13:11:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I finally have some pictures for you.

This is the knitted purse ready to sew and line.

This is the crocheted purse and the handles I found. It has the shape of a gift bag.

These are the crochet pockets my friend ordered. She will also get both sizes in black. They get a little flower and leaves at the top edge. I'll show you again when they are all finished.

My dog, Jemma. My black cat, King. And in the profile is now a family picture.

Last, but not least, a crocus is up. Yay!

I've Reached the Summit!

2009-01-25T16:14:00.000-08:00

I have summitted Mt. Laundry and am headed your way. I have been snowed under lately with housework and stressful situ's but I am back.
I am halfway through an order for four crocheted necklace pockets and have started the cocoa Blah Buddy. (yum) I am finally registered at Ravelry and Facebook.
It is cold here like all US and will be warming the house with lots of cooking this week. Saving money means sweat equity in the kitchen this week.
We have a crocus up and daffodils in bud so spring is coming. I definitely will have pix in the next two days. Next weekend is super busy.
Hmmm, super. Yes, definitely. Apologies for all my lags and boring run on's. Be good.

Dix

Slowly I Go, Step by Step

2009-01-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I only got the LR done yesterday and today I goofed around at the flea market. Found three German pinecone ornaments for a dollar a piece. Should be doing something with the kitch. Guess the puter has my butt glued to the chair. LOL

Dix

2009-01-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

Gotta get some batteries for some pix but I've got some purses ready to line. Working on two more. Boys are back to school so life gets more predictable. Today I have to clean and get more organized.

Dix

Cocoa Swap 2 Questionaire

2009-01-08T10:01:00.001-08:00

QuestionnaireThe Yarn…
1. Do you knit, crochet, or do both? I teach crochet and am a 1 year knitter.
2. What is your favorite one-skein project? What item do you find you knit the most of? Haven't done enough to have a fave.
3. Do you like using a particular type of needle or hook? (wood, metal, straight, circular) Is there something you’ve been wanting to try, or a particular size you always seem to be short on? Just tried wood and loved them. Don't have small or extra large.
4. What’s on your needles\hook right now? What’s your oldest UFO (unfinished object)? I am crocheting a large tote and just found an old purse unfinished. Knitting I am struggling with starting sox and want to start a knitting bag.
5. What are your favorite types of yarns? Are you allergic to any yarns, or just hate working with something? Anything type/brand of yarn you’ve been dying to try? I love natural fibers and would like to try silk, cashmere, or bamboo.
7. What are your favorite colors? Brights? Pastels? More muted colors? Variegated? Are there that make you want to stab yourself in the eye with your needles?I like almost all varigateds and pastels. No crayon colors.
8. What is your favorite knit accessory, your fancy needles? stitch markers? your yarn cutter? What do you have TOO many of? What do you wish you had? I love my new #8 rosewood needles. I would like to have some beaded stitch markers.
The Chocolate
1. Do you prefer boxed/packets, or something homemade? Either
2. Marshmallows or whipped cream? Either
3. Do you use any ‘add ins’? Not really.
4. Are you a year round cocoa drinker or just in the winter months? Winter
5. Do you like flavored cocoas or are you just a ’straight chocolate’ kind of person? Mostly straight but would like to try dark chocolate if its out there.
6. Do you enjoy cocoa from restaurants or shops like Starbucks? What are some of your favorites? Never have any.
7. You’ve just made the perfect cup of cocoa - is it in a thick mug, or a thinner cup? Where would you sit to drink it? Sort of thick. I would curl up in my big chair with an afgan.
8. You’re enjoying that perfect cup, what treats will you enjoy with it? Are they sweet or salty? Crunchy? Soft and flaky? Buttered toast or buttered popcorn.
It’s all YOU!
1. Do you have other hobbies like spinning or scrapbooking? I quilt, hand embroider, needlefelt.
2. Do you collect anything? Bookmarks
3. What is your favorite part of Winter? Blustery weather.
4. What sort of scents do you enjoy? Any difference in what you like for your house versus what you like for your body? Lavendar and citrus. No difference.
5. Are you allergic to anything? No
6. Are you on Ravelry? What’s your ID? No
7. How would you spend an ideal winter afternoon/day? Watching an old Doris Day movie and having my perfect cocoa and popcorn.
8. What’s your favorite animal? Kitties, yeah.

Good Morning, It's Afternoon

2009-01-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't wake up until 1p.m. Hopefully, I will accomplish more since I am rested. Just found a great swap. See the sideboard. Hope all is well. Can't wait for all the mid-month BOMs to start.

Dix

Received Stitch Angel Package

2008-12-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

My Stitcher's Angel from fall sent my package. It came Christmas Eve so it was like an extra present. She gave me beautiful goodies from Australia and stitched items she did for me. Thank you Michelle.

2009 Coming Soon

2008-12-29T08:41:00.000-08:00

Sounds like a movie advert. Glad for a new year. Going to work more on projects that have been waiting.
Right now, I have finished a small knitted wool/soy purse that needs finishing. I have started a crocheted cotton tote from yarn my oldest son gave me for Christmas.
I am planning to participate in Cocoa Swapping 2, a KAL at In The Making here in Birmingham, secret pals at Quilt Guild and my own projects.
I teach a crochet group every Wed and attend a knitting group every Thur. Quilt Guild is once a month and I am going to join T.O.P.S this year, too.

Well, I think those are big enough plans, so as scripture says, if the Lord allows.

Do you have certain pictures you would like to see?

Dix

2008-12-17T05:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming!

Ok, you knew that but it was for my mom. Christmas hasn't come yet. Guess I'll keep praying. I need to put up a pic of my quilt that my brown bag partner made. It is very bright. I also didn't tell that my secret pal was revealed and gave me two movies, a gripper for my templates and rulers, and dues for 2009 in guild. What a sweetie.

Well, I just wanted to say hi. The boys are in final exams this week and I have some more parties to attend. Hubby is working hard but I am getting to see him a lot more because this is the slow season. Hope you all are having a wonderful holiday season.

Dix

Out of the Haze

2008-12-13T14:06:00.000-08:00

Wow! Getting so many projects going and done at once tends to make me a zombie. I'm coming out of my haze with only one project left to go for Christmas. Of course time is ticking away but I think I'll actually make it on time. It's for my sis and her hub so I won't tell it now.

Today was the guild party. I made key chains that were adapted from an idea here. You can see my little assembly area was filling up. I made 45 all together.

At the party I got a bead name tag, three fat quarters, one half yard, a memo pad, pencil, felted pocket, candy and crocheted star. Thank you all my guild sisters. What a haul.

Also, I finished my challenge wallhanging for guild and for a first try at something difficult it was ok but don't look too close. Rat's forgot a picture. If I get one I will post later.

I made twelve centerpieces for the party. They're small but I liked using buttons and spools. It took a lot more work than it looks like. Hope you like 'em.

I also finished 35 quilted ornaments (no piecing) and 15 bookmarks so I am worn out.

Ginger, my young kitty, was caught at princess practice. Now if she could just sew a fine seam. (nursery rhyme joke)

If you like to knit or crochet Drops Design has a pattern advent calendar up. I love that they do that. They are a great resource and have lovely yarn, too.

I am off to decorate the house (finally!) Hope your season is rolling merry.

Dix

Up Against It

2008-11-18T09:05:00.000-08:00

I have 40 quilted ornaments half done. Started or needed to start are 40 guild surprises for Dec., two challenge projects and two presents. I also have company coming for Thanksgiving and my son's bedroom getting new furniture. So things are crazy and I need to be sewing not typing. LOL. Well everyone, have fun this week. Hopefully some pix by the weekend.

Love ya. Dix

New Day, New Blog

2008-11-14T09:19:00.000-08:00

Well, welcome. I'm hoping this will be my final choice for a blog. Today I'm working on guild treats for the Christmas party. I should be done by tonite. Then I can finish my other presents. Pix will have to wait until after they've been given.

My mom saw footage of the NY Christmas tree coming into the city. How exciting to see the Holidays coming.

Wow, thank goodness for spellcheck. LOL.

Love to all. Dix