Ding dong

In addition to working on my phoenix quilt  ( I am calling that because the pieces needed to be reborn into something remotely to my liking.  Pictures soon <insert crossed fingers here>), I spend each morning visiting my favorite blogs.  Heather Bostic's House of A La Mode is at the top of my list.  You can find her here:
http://alamodefabric.blogspot.com/

Today there is a giveaway for some super delicious fabric that I would love to get my hands on.  It is
from Little Things by Sarah Fiekle via Lecien.  My family room couch and my tired back are screaming for this fabric to envelop them.  Help a girl out, right?  Or at least help out an ugly couch and tired back?  In order to get two chances to win, I have to comment on Heather's blog (no problem there) and post about it on my blog.  As of yet, I think myself and my dog are the only ones reading my blog, so no sweat.  But...what if Heather were to read it?    Holy cow!  That is like getting the house ready for VIP company.   Heather is the eDiva of Modern Quilt, Gen X Blogging!  What do I do?  I cannot clean the blog site.  Or put out some super smelling Mandarin's Tea Party  soap from Lush in the powder room (I love that stuff).  Or light some candles.  Truly, I am having anxiety over the thought of this.
Any ideas?  Let me know.

Also, check out that fabric at Fat Quarter Shop
http://www.fatquartershop.com/From-Little-Things-Lecien-Fabrics-Sarah-Fielke.asp?Store_id=499&T=1

or Heather's site
http://alamodefabric.blogspot.com/

Happy Saturday!

If at first...

...you are unhappy with your brilliant idea for a quilt...cut, cut again.  Quilting must be doing something to me.  If I were cooking, for example, and I had planned a meal, purchased all the ingredients and realized while I was in the process of cooking it, that it was going to be a disaster, my blood pressure would have risen about 20 points and saucy expletives could be heard shooting out of my mouth.  Last night, I was working on my 3rd quilt.  No pattern, just a "brilliant" idea.  After a few hours of cutting and sewing, I decided that this was not at all turning out how I had hoped.  What I experienced was almost zen-like.  I looked at the parts I liked and thought of a way to incorporate them into something different and (hopefully) better that the "brilliant" idea.  Stay tuned as I will add pictures.  Ohm.

Next up...

Having just finished a Jets Minky lap blanket for my brother (I am not sure he will be so happy to receive it in the mail now), I am about to tackle a new monochromatic quilt.  The Modern Quilt Guild is having their 2nd competition.  My primary goal for this contest is to submit on time.  I would be lying if I did not admit that the competitive side of me wanted to win.  Realistic goals and stretch dreams are how I operate.  I will post some pictures once I have a few blocks completed.  Have a happy day and stay warm.  It is cold outside today!

You have to start somewhere

Going on a journey takes many things.  Planning, ambition, and cash are good things to have on hand.  Ultimately though you have to start the journey, if you are going to experience anything.   I have been sewing for nine months and quilting for almost five months now.  The inspiration and support I have found online  have been so valuable to me.  Although I may not have much to add yet,  I feel guilty not sharing, too.  The relaxing escape, the creative outlet, and the gratification from sewing and quilting brings me to the blog title, piece peace.  Today I start my journey and you are welcome to join me.