Happy Thanksgiving!

Hi All!

Just wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Amidst the hustle and bustle, the planning, preparation and cooking, I've had a few minutes to just think. And I realize that I have so much to be Thankful for!!!!

I'm so glad for my husband of 25 years, my love for you just keeps growing. Thankful for my children, who surprise me daily (one way or another). I'm so Thankful for my Mom and all she's taught me; glad I had the opportunity to spend time with my Mother in Law before she passed. I miss her ever so much!

I could go on and on, but lastly, I'll just say that I'm incredibly Thankful for the many friends I've made through quilting. Not only do I love all aspects of quilting, but I have made some of the best friends through it as well.

I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving, that you, too, have much to be Thankful for. I've heard it said that it's always better to count your blessings...I suppose today is a good day for that!

Enjoy,
Karen

Thanks to the Cotton Club Quilters

I owe a HUGE "Thank You" to all the gals in the Cotton Club Quilt Guild! I just got to spend the most wonderful weekend with them in Raleigh, N.C.

It was their "Retreat", and they kindly invited me in to do a trunk show and teach a class in prairie point quilts, from the book to be released in September. My friend, Phyllis, accompanied me, which made it an even better weekend for me! My long-time friend, she's always there when I need her!!!

Here's the thing, it was their Retreat, but I'm certain that I'm the one who came away with the most! I got to spend some quality time with my bestfriend, made a whole bunch of great new friends, and got to share one of my greatest passions. I love quilting and the people involved in it! There's nothing better than spending a weekend sharing, creating, laughing, and just plain havin' fun! And there's always something to learn!

Thank You to my new friends. I so enjoyed it, appreciate your humor and goodwill, your talent and insights, but mostly~ just the opportunity to get to know you all! You're the best!
Karen

New Book Contract!

Hi All!

Again, I have been remiss. Getting home after Mom passed, going straight back to work, and now, a new book contract! While I'm INCREDIBLY excited, I also feel pretty pressured! It seems I'm always running, running, running!

However, all that should change soon. I put in my "notice" at work, and have decided to pursue qulting as a full time business. I strongly feel that whether you succeed or fail, it should never be because you didn't give it 100%!!!!! I agonized on How, How, How, I could conceivably do both....work full time, and do the kind of quilting I truly envision. And the answer was, I couldn't!

Alicia Keys can strap an "S" on her chest and be Super woman, but , alas, I couldn't do the same! So, that's OK, I can, and will put two "S's" on my chest and be a "Super Stitcher"!

The new book, tentatively titled "Prairie Point Pizzazz" will be released September 2011, and with this technique, well, you can add a prairie point to any half or quarter square triangle, giving your quilts new dimension! POPPABILITY! It is an exciting new concept, and one I hope will be embraced by the quilting community!

So, if you're of a mind....well, say a prayer, wish me luck, and know I'm thinking of you!

dREAM, cREATE. iNSPIRE!

It's in your hands!
karen

It's Good To Be Home

Well it took a little while, but it sure is good to be home! I finally feel like I have my feet back underneath me! Hard to believe that I had to make an adjustment, but there it is, I did. Heck, took a wee bit of time just to figure out where the pots and pans were again!

I finally got a chance to get in my sewing room and spent one day just reorganizing! Now instead of lots of piles of fabric....well, I still have lots of piles, but now of projects! But, it sure feels good to go in there and have a game plan. For Quilters, sometimes there's nothing more calming than re-acquainting one's self with their stash. To realize there are so many more quilts to be made! So many possibilities!

I'm off on Monday and Tuesday, and while I'd planned on doing housework, I think maybe it can wait! Instead, I believe I'm going to use those two days to indulge my creative urges, to re-bond with my sewing machine, to see some of the possibilities! After all, it's the possibilities that keep us going!

Have a great week y'all!
Karen

Jennie Miles 1941-2010

It's been a long time since I posted; that's because I was in Monatana caring for my Mother in law, diagnosed with cancer in February. Sadly, Mom lost her hard fought battle on July 6th.

I went to Montana in March and was with Mom, caring for her until she passed away. Now that I'm back home and have the chance to reflect, I realize it was one of the greatest opportunities of my life! Yes, it was very difficult! Yes, there were many a day when I cried my heart out! And Yes! It was worth it!

Many of us are fortunate to have people in our lives who's impact may not be felt immediately, but is oh, so lasting. That was my mother in law, Jennie, my 2nd Mom! I loved her so much, and feel it was a priviledge and an honor to show her how much I cared by taking care of her, spending precious time with her. and at the end, honoring her wishes.

This morning, I checked the bluebird box in our yard, noted there were 5 eggs, and instinctively went to call her. No, this isn't the first, and probably not the last, time that this has happened. I cry because I'm sad that she's no longer with us.

then I realize...maybe she is. She certainly "lives on" in my heart, mind and memories! She will always be a part of me, one that I thank God for!

Mom, I love you! And I miss you ever so much! Thank You for all you were and all you continue to be! With Love, Now and Always!
Karen

The Kindness of Quilters

My Dad once told me, "There's no such thing as strangers....just friends we haven't met yet!". And I have found that maxim to hold true, especially in the quilting world!
AS I sit here in Montana, knee deep in snow in May, I realize how isolated I have felt. Coming out here to care for a loved one, not knowing ANYONE, my only reprieve has been on the rare occassion I can bond with my sewing machine!
Well, in order to sew, one really should have fabric. So I wandered in to a delightful quilt shop on Main St in Bozeman. Lisa, the owner, and I started chatting, and ended up setting up a trunk show and book signing. While there, I was so warmly welcomed by the staff, had an absolutely incredible afternoon of sewing, signing and making friends, that when it was time to return to the real world, I had to fight back tears!
I can't tell you all how very much I miss my 'quilting buddies', the comaraderie' and good times that go along with sharing. So, I say Thank You! to Lisa and Main Street Quilting. You gave me a day to hold on to, a wonderful memory, and a reminder that quilters everywhere are the best!
Karen

CHOICES

Have you ever noticed how many choices we have the opportunity to make each and every day? As I've sat here in a hospital with Mom for the last month, it's given me alot of time to observe, think, reflect and discover.

Before this all happened and I had to work, well, I didn't even think about what to wear...a uniform. Or whether to go to work, HAD TO in order to get paid! So those were pretty easy, 'no brainers' if you will.

But here, every day we're faced with new challenges, new choices. And sometimes, it's the "choosing" that seems to be the hardest part. Once decided on a course of action, well, we move forward, usually with conviction.

I guess we all want to make the right choices (all the time), but life isn't that way. And it's OK. We choose, we learn, and maybe we choose differently next time; maybe not. I think, no, believe, that it's the whole range of emotions, ability to feel and express them, and commitment to move forward that keeps most of us going. Life isn't always easy, yes, there are challenges, but it's how we choose to live with them that define us.

God, please help me to make the right choices today!
Karen

Break out the Sewing Machine!

Oh how I'm itching to break out the sewing machine! As you all know, things have been tough for my mother in law! I recently made her the "Sun Kissed Roses' quilt from the book to use as her "therapy" quilt. And you know what I discovered? That quilt can be made in a day! So can "Midnight Fairy Lights" and "Sew Dear"!

As I sit here and work on a presentation for quilt shop owners, I've realized that the book has much to offer. Quilts that can be made in a day! Faux piping and flange techniques! How to split the binding at the miter! Cool border treatments! How to make freehand feathers!

And what I love the most, well, the response Mom has gotten from having those quilts with her in the hospital. Seems everyone just loves quilts, and many wish they had them! You can see in her expression how proud she is to have them, they set her apart! Everyone remarks how much she must be loved! And you can watch her stroke them and feel the comfort they bring her! So can you blame me for wanting to make a few more?

Mom, I love you! And oh how I want you to get better! I'll make you as many quilts as you can handle, each one a little different, yet each one made with love!

Montana: One Week

Hi All!

Been here in Montana for one week now, and with Mom still in the hospital, have had plenty of time to sit, hand sew, watch, and reflect.

I gave Mom 2 quilts at the hospital, one "just cuz" and one to be her "therapy" (chemo) quilt. Both quilts just easy, lap size projects, yet both truly appreciated by all who see them! Doctors, nurses, therapists, dieticians, friends, and family. It amazes me how quilts speak to all of us!

In a world wrecked by cancer, wearied by the drugs to treat it, Mom has found a small measure of joy, comfort and warmth by having those quilts grace her hospital bed. And I, like every little girl who once wished she had a magic wand, but found out she didn't, am so Thankful I was able to give her this one small gift!

Never forget that quilts are so much more than the scraps they're made of...they're part of the fabric of our lives, interwoven with others, and measured in value by the joy we give to those who love them!

God Bless! Prayers appreciated in this tough time!!!!
Karen

Heading to Montana

Ever had to pack for a long trip? I mean a r-e-a-l-l-y long trip? I have lists on top of lists! All to , I hope, keep me from forgetting something I might really need!

Oh there's the usual suspects...clothes, pajamas, toilettries, but then there's the important stuff..sewing machine, notions, and lots and lots of fabric! A mat, ruler and cutter, scissors, pins and thread! oh, and of course, the quilts that are part of the trunk show!

I suppose I could go on and on, but the bottom line is, when traveling to far away places, take what you can, buy what you forget! Lists are just pieces of paper I'll soon throw away!

As I travel to Montana, I hope your thoughts and prayers will be with my Mother in law. A very special lady having a very tough time! It seems we are inundated with "cancer awareness" ads and new and more promising treatments, but getting the diagnosis is just plain scary! I know we have a tough road ahead and all these lists do is give me something to focus on, something else to think about. That's OK I think, we all find our solace in different things. My hope is that Mom can find a way to cope too, because while I'll be there for her, she's still the one who has to 'take it on'!

So with that said, I think I'll go finish the binding on her "therapy" quilt. More later....
Karen

Bring on the Retreats

Hi All!

Just went on a Retreat, sponsored by the Waterford Guild and the Haymarket Qu Chapter. And it came at a time when I really needed it! Sometimes, you don't even realize how much you need the fellowship that other quilters offer. Just seems like 'life' was kinda spinning out of control....work, kids, book, events, Mother in law diagnosed with cancer.

So, the opportunity to slip away, even for a few days, was a wonderful respite. It's not that you forget your responsibilities, but it does give you the chance to 'just breathe', reflect, and even 'indulge'. I got to talk alot, listen more, laugh uproariously, eat till I was busting at the seams, and yes, get a few things done!

I made my Mother-in-law a "therapy" quilt, and was able to knock out two other tops. Love that Sunkissed Roses pattern, 3 tops in 2 days! Now, of course, I'm back and just have to get them quilted and bound. But, restored and refreshed by the friendships, I have a brighter outlook, a spring in my step, and most importantly, hope for the future.

So, if life starts spinning out of control, take a moment, go on a Retreat. Do what you love to do! It's amazing how just those few moments can restore a little 'balance'!

Prayers Please

Have had a good week, and also a bad one. Did 6 book signings last week, attended a huge quilt show, and found out my mother-in-law has cancer. I've hesitated posting, I suppose because everything is still so fresh, and it's scary!

Now, I've been able to do some research, am (I hope) over the shell-shock, and ready to move forward. I think the hardest part of any process is the "unknown". It seems whenever we're confronted with something, and we have to wonder "what if", we are paralized. Yet, once we know what we're up against...well, the fighting instinct takes over, and we're ready to "deal".

Mom's oncology appointment is Thursday, surgical appointment is Friday. So, what I ask today... if you are willing, well, say a prayer for Jennie Miles, one of the absolute, greatest women I've ever known! I am in awe of her, frankly, have always been! She can do anything! But, I guess, this is one fight where I feel more comfortable knowing we have a 'whole bunch of back-up'.

Thank you all. God be with you!
Karen

First Trunk Show and Book Signing

OK, so the book has finally come out, and I had the opportunity to go to Chesapeake yesterday to do two Trunk Shows and Book Signings. So...what is it about 'public speaking' that puts the fear of God into everyone, me included? I didn't just have butterflies, there was a marching band in there!!!

But, can I say that it was fun? I mean, what can be better than sharing what you love with other like minded people? There are so many styles of quilting, from traditional to contemporary, so many fabrics, colors and options! And that's part of what makes it so cool! We each put our own stamp, flavor, and personality into our work, and while we might not endeavor to master all styles, we sure seem able to appreciate them!

And, last but HARDLY least, quilters are just a great group of people! I feel so fortunate to have met some of the greatest gals (and guys) through quilting. Take Doris, the owner of A Different Touch; she's just as beautiful on the inside as the outside, and I want to Thank Her for allowing me to come to her shop yesterday. I met some very talented people there, who's Show and Tell both inspired and motivated me. Thanks to All of you for making me feel so welcome!

Gosh I love quilting...and the people who are part of it!

A Look Behind and A Look Ahead

Shoo wee! What a week! Last week I posted about the snow and if I thought I wanted it gone then, well, today, I'm even more sure! Friday and most of Saturday, we had 'near blizzard' conditions and a snow accumulation of about 26-28 inches!

Power went out about 10 Friday night and came back on around 6PM Saturday. No heat, but hey, one good thing about being a quilter...there were plenty of 'blankets' to go around!!!

So that's the "look behind". Ahead, well, the book release is set for Tuesday. I didn't think that day would ever get here, and as you can imagine, I'm pretty excited. All the gals at our Guild meeting on Thursday gave me a beautiful potted plant to say "Congratulations", which threatened to make me cry, but also brought home what a special group quilters are! I am truly glad that my sister dragged me into that quilt shop all those years ago! It's been a Blessing, one I count every day!

Snow, Snow, Go Away!

OK, I've got to admit that I absolutely LOVE the first snowfall. There's something so fresh, pristine and beautiful about all that white, how it falls, silently coating the ground. But, the other side of that coin, is that I never learned how to drive in it, and by gosh, by golly, its darn right COLD!

As beautiful as it is initially, I MUST admit that I long to be warm, to be able to drive without fear of ending up in a ditch, and let's face it, no more unscheduled "snow days" for the kids! I thought a "snow day" would be a God-send; hmmm....what can I do? Maybe I'll sew! But instead, it's managing kids, meals, wet, and warmth! So today, I say, "Come on Spring"! Bring me your gentle breezes, your beautiful flowers and the promise of something good to come!

In the meantime, as I wait for Spring, the weatherman says 1-3 inches tomorrow, and another snow storm this weekend. Well....one can always hope....RIGHT?

Hanging Sleeves and Labels

Well, for some good news! Was recently contacted by a shop that wants to hang about 10 quilts (kind of a one woman show) for a month prior to a book signing. Yes, only 2 weeks to go till the book comes out! Only problem is, I was lax and didn't put hanging sleeves or labels on any of the quilts!
So here I am, sewing my little heart out...12 sleeves and 12 labels. One could make the case for doing it as you go along, rather than having to play 'catch up' later. And, in fact, that's what I should have done!
I think all of us know the importance of putting labels on; it's a great way to document the quilt...when it was made, who made it, even who it was for and why it was created! I know that, I've always known that! Yet here I am, trying to get done what should have already been done!
So in the future, I vow to make sure I finish the whole quilt and nothing but the whole quilt! Do I hear an "Amen"?

Progress

Been a good week, at least I think so. Did get a chance to get in my sewing room, put the borders on my "Blooming Tree of Life" and "Bears Paw with Claws" and have been diligently working on the trapunto design for the center space in the Tree of Life quilt. Pretty good for a gal who can't draw a straight line with a ruler!

Now...if I can translate that sketch into the actual quilting?!? But, hey, that's the fun part, right? At least it's always a surprise. Sometimes we start on one direction, and wind up in another. That's part of what I love about quilting; you do have the creative freedom to go in the direction that it leads.

I remember one quilt I designed years ago, a "Truly Feathered Feathered Star". I had made all the blocks, just had to sew them together. Well, my daughter was supposed to be taking a nap, but when I went to check on her, she was in my sewing room, cutting my blocks apart! Yikes!!!!! Without enough fabric to re-make the blocks, I drew a peacock (a feathered star in his own right) and made him the center focal point of the quilt. See, start in one direction, and end in another! That's where creative freedom can be a true blessing!

So, we'll see...where will this quilt take me? I guess we'll find out once the stitching begins!

"Sew In"

Sometimes there's just nothing better than getting together with other quilters for a "Sew In". Our guild had one the other day, and I have to say that I'm so glad I went. It had been a tough week, like many others this cold...brrr...winter, I found myself 'laid up' for a few days.

But, tired as I was, still not feeling great, I decided to go. And the funny thing is, it made me feel better! I guess it's just being able to 'connect' with others, that shared passion for the art of quilting, and the inspiration that always seems to be there. I love seeing what everyone is working on; sitting, sewing, chatting, laughing; it's all there, in one little room!

Thanks Ladies, I had a great time, got some work done, and enjoyed being with you all. Next time I need a boost, Calgon won't be taking me away, a "Sew In" will!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year All!

Been awhile since I posted; I suppose that's why those New Years Resolutions come in so handy! Along with all the other life stlyle changes I need to make, posting regularly and connecting with other quilters is one that's at the top of the list!
So...what's new??? Still working full time, still a wife and mother (Thank God!) and anxiously awaiting the release of the book in February! Just before Christmas, Martingale sent me an advance copy of the book and a really gorgeous floral arrangement. You know, it all seems like a dream, that is until you hold it in your hand!
That's when the hope and the fear truly sets in! Hope that the book does well, and fear that it won't! With that said, I can at least say that my husband and kids are proud....and that's the BEST feeling of all! They presented me with a framed copy of the cover on Christmas, and YES! I admit, I cried like a baby! They had written an inscription that reads as follows:

If you can believe it, you can achieve it. You're living proof that dreams really do come true. We're extremely proud of you Mom!

Now, well.., thru all the blood, sweat and tears, I realize I'd do it all again, just to know I made my family proud!
Karen