tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-125999452024-03-13T10:32:31.494-07:00WhatKnotAdventures in parenting, crafting and everything in between.WeeBloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14472607628072099424noreply@blogger.comBlogger284125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-53201622623466949552010-04-04T17:43:00.000-07:002010-04-04T18:19:47.231-07:00home frontHark! I have some dissimilar pieces of information to compile for a blog post!<br /><br />Mama's bag...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4491169879/" title="mamabag by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4491169879_b3c482459a.jpg" alt="mamabag" width="500" height="383" /></a><br /><br />Although she's not technically a mama (yet), I made this purse for my BFF from <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/">Soulemama's</a> newest craft book. Such an easy, instant gratification kind of project. My fave. I used some thrifted heavy-weight fabric for the outer material and...had enough left over to cut out an EXACT MATCH for myself. Ahem. So my BFF's purse will have a BFF of its own.<br /><br />Ducks...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4491169793/" title="ducks by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4491169793_e7a1f3ca59.jpg" alt="ducks" width="500" height="347" /></a><br /><br />From a trip to our wonderful, practically-backyard <a href="http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/finder/index.cfm?PropertyID=27&action=ViewPark">Rhodie garden</a>.<br /><br />And, home haircut...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4488810146/" title="HairBefore by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4488810146_32f424b789.jpg" alt="HairBefore" width="500" height="383" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4488810176/" title="HairDuring by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2679/4488810176_9eb7638b07.jpg" alt="HairDuring" width="438" height="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4488810370/" title="HairHappy by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4488810370_1e9f42e20b.jpg" alt="HairHappy" width="374" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Not as memorable as <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2005/05/home-haircut.html">these</a> <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2008/09/simile-metaphor-and-thank-you.html">haircuts</a> (the latter, of which, Tracey so graciously recalled for me. Thanks Tracey!) But Holden's been growing his hair out for yikes, well over a year?? I cut off 8 inches, not quite the 10 inches that we hoped he had for <a href="http://www.locksoflove.org/">Locks of Love</a>. But oh well...there's always next year (he decided to grow his hair out again, after a mere 5 minutes post-haircut).<br /><br />Some things never, ever change around this Whatknot household...melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-80627776410443492682010-03-05T20:49:00.000-08:002010-03-05T21:26:09.877-08:00Quilt for a Babe<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4409663117/" title="WindowQuilt by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4409663117_4f9c7ff706.jpg" alt="WindowQuilt" height="357" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Here's how blogging's been going lately: I sit down, write a few lines about this, that, who, how and why and then run out of steam, dwindle, drop the ball, FLOP!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4410429422/" title="EmmettQuilt by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2728/4410429422_efe920d66c.jpg" alt="EmmettQuilt" height="364" width="500" /></a><br /><br />And here's how crafting's been going lately: I have an idea, a very bright and fantastical idea that wakes me up at 5:45am and beckons me downstairs to sketch, color, sketch some more, overthink, yawn, yearn for my pillow, and then FLOP! Yet again.<br /><br />It is a theme, for sure. But I'm embracing my flops and forging forward.<br /><br />This quilt is for a sweet new little baby boy named Emmett. An incredibly cute and nibble-worthy baby. Nine months in the making (the quilt, not the baby) (well technically, I guess the baby, too) with loops and linen and splashes of color to keep him cozified.<br /><br />And now, I must rest my brains in preparation for my early morning crafty wake-up call. g'night!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4410429460/" title="QuiltHolder by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4410429460_759cc661fe.jpg" alt="QuiltHolder" height="333" width="500" /></a>melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-85334791169697263422010-01-24T15:02:00.000-08:002010-01-24T19:18:34.875-08:00begin and end againHello blog. It's a new year and I have thoroughly and shamelessly neglected you. Truth is, life never really returned to "normal" after our move...and I'm finding that "normal" is not high priority these days anyway. "Keeping calm and carrying on" is more our style, however trendy and cliche it may be, so we're going with that until life resumes a new normal, whatever that may be.<br /><br />But! I continue to craft and have things to show and tell. Like these, the last of the <a href="http://twelvebytwelvequiltbee.blogspot.com/">Twelve Square</a> quilting bee installments.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4301313515/" title="12SquareSelvedge by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4301313515_b25c0cdcb1.jpg" alt="12SquareSelvedge" height="495" width="500" /></a><br /><br />The first is for <a href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/">Jona</a>. She asked that a selvage be included in her citrusy/tropical themed block, so I popped that Amy Butler into the design. The colors make me pine for a summer fruit salad. Yum.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4301961455/" title="12SquareRows by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2733/4301961455_0edcefca29.jpg" alt="12SquareRows" height="500" width="491" /></a><br /><br />The second is for <a href="http://pinkpicketfence.typepad.com/">Chris</a>. Her instructions were to "row" the vintage fabrics that she supplied, asking that any additional fabric be white or vintage. I loved that each of the fabrics she supplied had some play of white, so just added the strips on the left to follow that theme.<br /><br />And voila! 12 square is complete. I loved working on this project with this amazing group of women. There are murmurs of continuing the project after a bit of a break this year, so I look forward to more bee-ing.melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-71129834881225064332009-11-26T07:40:00.000-08:002009-11-26T08:07:50.679-08:00Giving thanks<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4135551443/" title="ThanksBanner by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2480/4135551443_44f210018d.jpg" alt="ThanksBanner" width="500" height="393" /></a><br /><br />Blessings abound in our little corner of the world today.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4135552121/" title="leaf by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2702/4135552121_7fe283847f.jpg" alt="leaf" width="500" height="371" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4136311628/" title="momleaf by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2670/4136311628_3bc2d83129.jpg" alt="momleaf" width="500" height="399" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4135551895/" title="flowerrock by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2744/4135551895_95494d31e4.jpg" alt="flowerrock" width="388" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Happy T day to you, yours (and mine!). (Banner was inspired by <a href="http://saltandchocolate.blogspot.com/2009/11/bonus-studio-morning.html">this beautiful creation</a>.)melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-79180689090105627692009-11-22T10:16:00.000-08:002009-11-22T10:26:05.648-08:00A new blogger in the mixAfter a few conversations about the whys and hows and whats of writing, a certain little someone has decided to start his own blog (especially after noting the lack of Indiana Jones, Lego and reptile references on my blog...ahem).<br /><br />So, without further ado, I present to you: <a href="http://holdensfrogblog.blogspot.com/">Holden's Frog Blog</a> (a collection of thoughts on the life of a five-and-3-quarter-year-old).<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">note: the phonetic spelling is kinda fun to decipher. He "writes" until his thoughts run too far ahead of his hunt & peck skills, and then I decode and take dictation. Emergent blogging skills, if you will...</span>melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-26089205676672189662009-11-09T21:05:00.001-08:002009-11-09T21:29:53.256-08:00Into fall...<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4091322305/" title="FallRide by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/4091322305_ef290f5acb.jpg" alt="FallRide" width="500" height="420" /></a><br /><br />...because I'm finally accepting that summer has ended.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4092086764/" title="FallAppleFest by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2433/4092086764_348f0ff33e.jpg" alt="FallAppleFest" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4091322133/" title="FallAppleFest2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2498/4091322133_4cbf82219f.jpg" alt="FallAppleFest2" width="500" height="341" /></a><br /><br />So, a few pics to show what we've been up to this lovely Fall season.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4091322211/" title="FallMud by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2565/4091322211_2753353793.jpg" alt="FallMud" width="500" height="345" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4092087146/" title="FallPumpkin by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4092087146_d7c8b44bd4.jpg" alt="FallPumpkin" width="373" height="500" /></a><br /><br />And a few images that are threatening to inspire a Fall-y quilt.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4092087326/" title="FallColors by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/4092087326_3c00ae82d7.jpg" alt="FallColors" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4091321839/" title="FallApples by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2486/4091321839_cffdb4ef9d.jpg" alt="FallApples" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />And glory be to the supreme goddess of craft, I'm finally getting back into a crafty groove (fingers crossed that it sticks). But not before I share pics of Indiana Jones and his trusty chicken...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4092086508/" title="IndyandChicken by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/4092086508_d48325b793.jpg" alt="IndyandChicken" width="394" height="500" /></a><br /><br />And now...onto crafting!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-2501188664127892292009-10-25T09:02:00.001-07:002009-10-25T10:29:21.074-07:00Summer revisited -- bullfrog roundup<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4042687897/" title="BullfrogNets by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2571/4042687897_47e64bf527.jpg" alt="BullfrogNets" width="500" height="352" /></a><br /><br />Some images from our recent bullfrog roundup -- a day spent amongst the reeds, muck, cloudbursts and sparkling waters of <a href="http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/finder/index.cfm?PropertyID=856&action=ViewPark">Whitaker Ponds</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4042687465/" title="BullfrogEsme by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2485/4042687465_f560db5c8c.jpg" alt="BullfrogEsme" width="387" height="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4042686035/" title="BullfrogHandhold by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2447/4042686035_678021e248.jpg" alt="BullfrogHandhold" width="500" height="403" /></a><br /><br />Organized by Portland Parks and Rec, the intent was to gather American Bullfrogs, an invasive, non-native bully of the ponds, so that the native species have a chance to thrive. The frogs are either donated to the zoo (mountain lion lunch) or kept by PP&R for educational purposes.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4042686931/" title="BullfrogBigpond2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2726/4042686931_ac55b309c9.jpg" alt="BullfrogBigpond2" width="378" height="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4043432178/" title="BullfrogKids by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3493/4043432178_c45ce47831.jpg" alt="BullfrogKids" width="500" height="354" /></a><br /><br />So with nets in hand and waders on feet, we headed toward the murky waters of frogdom. The day cooperated by providing wonderful lighting for us photo-oppers, but the frogs must have caught wind of our frog-napping intentions as the group only caught one feeble-looking, bug-eyed little guy.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4042687731/" title="BullfrogWaterrings by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3261/4042687731_bdc182e27b.jpg" alt="BullfrogWaterrings" width="500" height="351" /></a><br /><br />Or, quite possibly, their little tympanic membranes picked up the thunderous, giggly approach of excited frog-catchers and they decided to lay low and watch the antics of the day.<br /><br />Smart frogs.melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-92146372517908029912009-10-18T06:47:00.000-07:002009-10-18T08:35:04.930-07:00My Summer Blog VacationI'm happy to report that we are indeedily residing in our new home amongst our finally-unpacked old stuff, and thought it apt to share some highlights of my impromptu and extended (ahem) summer blog vacation. To get my rickety typing fingers back in shape, I thought I'd play catch up for a few days here, so bear with me while I delve back into summer memories (while the outside temps steadily creep toward winter...)<br /><br />So here's a bit of what we've been up to:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Cooking,</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4022722650/" title="cakeface by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/4022722650_d59e42d768_o.jpg" alt="cakeface" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4022722926/" title="cooking by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2611/4022722926_2561f47cce_o.jpg" alt="cooking" width="300" height="450" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Canning,</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4022722832/" title="blueberries by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2508/4022722832_ca8cbcbcd1_o.jpg" alt="blueberries" width="500" height="390" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">and Mudpie-making...</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/4022723082/" title="mudpies by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2441/4022723082_964832a14b_o.jpg" alt="mudpies" width="500" height="380" /></a><br /><br />In other words...<span style="font-style: italic;">Sustaining</span>!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-63610310281566032802009-07-25T20:30:00.000-07:002009-07-25T21:22:14.599-07:00The blues<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3756354717/" title="blueberries by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3756354717_489c521963_o.jpg" alt="blueberries" width="500" height="358" /></a><br /><br />I'm casting a feeble little "hi, i'm here" wave from behind the remaining boxes awaiting to be unpacked. I'm <span style="font-style: italic;">almost </span>there, and can see the glimmer of craft-time hope in my newly adorned and adored craft room at the end of the tunnel. Must. Push. On....<br /><br />But I decided to take a "break" today for some blueberry picking, sans kiddos. A friend and I headed south-ish to a little farm tucked into the corner of Hubbard, OR, a true treasure trove of perfectly sun-kissed blue beauties waiting to be picked.<br /><br />And picked we did, 3 1/2 hours worth ending up with 26 pounds each! Aside from my friend getting stung in the face by a yellow jacket(!), we had a truly lovely time amongst the berries.<br /><br />So now, I shall add to my not-so-short to-do list the task of putting these little blue beauties by. A task I'm all too happy to undertake. And then, back to the boxes!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-30299473843577227772009-07-03T09:40:00.000-07:002009-07-03T10:03:19.450-07:00Signing off<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3684177431/" title="BlockforSarah2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2212/3684177431_9832c3b264_o.jpg" alt="BlockforSarah2" width="500" height="352" /></a><br /><br />The fixtures are in, the walls are painted and the van is reserved....we are moving!! But not until I share one last completed project before the craft room is packed up: <a href="http://spjacksonphoto.typepad.com/sarah_jackson_photography/">Sarah's</a> quilt block for <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/twelvebytwelve/">12 square.</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3684989660/" title="BlockforSarahDetail by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2639/3684989660_3ee893fc71_o.jpg" alt="BlockforSarahDetail" width="500" height="374" /></a><br /><br />I adore all these prints and picture the perfect summer quilt or picnic blanket once it's complete (but that's up to Sarah, of course).<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3684989606/" title="BlockforSarah by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2662/3684989606_dbd808e940_o.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Please excuse me for a bit while I pack up and fly off to our new location. I'll check back in when we're settled in our new nest. Happy 4th of July summer bbq apple & cherry pie firework wishes to everyone!!!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-17461792291852858492009-06-29T19:04:00.000-07:002009-06-29T19:20:36.473-07:00Slightly past due<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3674048088/" title="PillowcaseDress4 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3353/3674048088_4af8fcb9aa.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress4" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br />This is my<a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2009/01/for-love-of-craft-books.html"> craft book challenge</a> project for May. Finished in June. And LATE June at that.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3673238509/" title="PillowcaseDress by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/3673238509_5ba4b59cf1.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress" width="357" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Yes, I’m behind. And even though I’m probably the only person holding myself accountable, I still feel guilty. And to make matters worse, I don’t even own this craft book. Just had it on loan from the library (that counts, right???)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3674048128/" title="PillowcaseDress5 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3413/3674048128_4c223fdec2_o.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress5" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Anyway, this is the Mendocino dress from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Weekend-Sewing-Projects-Inspired-Stitching/dp/1584796758">Weekend Sewing</a> by <a href="http://heatherross.squarespace.com/">Heather Ross</a>. Such a fast, easy and FUN project. And to make it even faster and easier (and funner) I used a vintage pillowcase to bypass the tasks of hemming and side-seaming. Every little bit helps, right? It was perfectly sized for Esme’s 3yo little self and will likely be wearable well into her 4yo + 5yo days.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3673238543/" title="PillowcaseDress2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3361/3673238543_fb3616214f.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress2" width="369" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Let’s just say, getting a picture of her sitting still was the hardest part of this project.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3673238583/" title="PillowcaseDress3 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2431/3673238583_074322b2ef_o.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress3" width="500" height="415" /></a><br /><br />Ahem.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3673238729/" title="PillowcaseDress7 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2578/3673238729_9f51a2acf5.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress7" width="365" height="500" /></a><br /><br />The little capris, Esme’s summer wardrobe staple, are from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5775586">this sweet etsy shop</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3673238701/" title="PillowcaseDress6 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3651/3673238701_3e13c579ee_o.jpg" alt="PillowcaseDress6" width="500" height="356" /></a><br /><br />I heart this little dress so, so much. And luckily, my twirly, skippy, moving target of a daughter does too.melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-23080198471036490392009-06-22T07:19:00.000-07:002009-06-22T07:55:25.180-07:00Excuse me, there's a quail in my quilt<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3650915540/" title="PlacematFront by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3572/3650915540_0341065a32_o.jpg" alt="PlacematFront" width="500" height="416" /></a></span><br /><br />Yay, we're back! Just in time for mini quilt Monday.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3650090335/" title="PlacematBack by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3339/3650090335_06a8e94113_o.jpg" alt="PlacematBack" width="500" height="372" /></a><br /><br />This is the placemat made for this <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/placemat_quilt_swap/">fabulously fun swap</a>. But since it's quilted and it's mini, I think it qualifies as a mini quilt (right?)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3650890436/" title="PlacematDetail by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3540/3650890436_0370f0157c_o.jpg" alt="PlacematDetail" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Holden picked the quailie bird and I picked the summery colors and prints in honor of solstice.<br /><br />As expected, a week of frolicking in the desert without the web did me good. We turned over rocks and found baby scorpions (ick), we explored a homestead site at the <a href="http://www.highdesertmuseum.org/">High Desert Museum</a>, and I read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/These-My-Words-Nancy-Turner/dp/0060987510">this book</a> in 3 days. And now, I have a pile of laundry and blog reading to attend to.<br /><br />Happy Monday!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-90116089903346097352009-06-12T21:53:00.000-07:002009-06-12T22:28:30.239-07:00This will be good for me<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3621534490/" title="OaksParkRockets by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3404/3621534490_ce3457a394_o.jpg" alt="OaksParkRockets" width="500" height="370" /></a><br /><br />We're running away to the desert. OK not so much running, as visiting, and we were invited. I'll be without internet access for a week or so, so I'm bringing books, some hand sewing and a positive attitude. We're also bringing the contents of our CSA bin because even desert visitors need fresh veggies.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3621534508/" title="OaksParkRollercoaster by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3659/3621534508_d2bf33c547_o.jpg" alt="OaksParkRollercoaster" width="500" height="379" /></a><br /><br />Oh and these are completely unrelated pictures of our day at <a href="http://www.oakspark.com/">Oaks Park</a>. And yes, that's my daredevil daughter riding the rollercoaster while Holden and I stayed on the safety of flat, non-turbulent ground.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3620715577/" title="OaksParkAspirations by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2425/3620715577_ed29da3831.jpg" alt="OaksParkAspirations" width="333" height="500" /></a><br />She can only aspire (because she's too short to ride)<br /><br />Anyway, here's what became of last week's veggies:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scapes:</span> Goat cheese + scape grilled pizza. Good in concept, but I did something entirely wrong with the scapes because they came out very, very <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> tender. Sad, because I think that was our only allotment.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Potatoes</span>: Oven potato fries, a kid favorite.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cauliflower</span>: Sauteed with indian spices. YUM.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basil</span>: Pesto, and some in <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2008/07/vegwhatever-frackin-day-it-is.html">lentil pasta</a>.<br /><br />Everything else was either eaten raw in salads & such (lettuce, cucumbers, carrots, onions) or inhaled on the spot (strawberries, snap peas).<br /><br />This week we received:<br />more peas + strawberries (yay!)<br />kale<br />zucchini<br />broccoli<br />potatoes (yukon gold)<br />parsley<br />salad mix<br />carrots<br />beets<br /><br />And...we're off. Have a lovely week everyone!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3620715561/" title="OaksParkMotorcycle by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3620715561_6bed11d41b_o.jpg" alt="OaksParkMotorcycle" width="500" height="333" /></a>melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-21250583463406266932009-06-11T21:30:00.001-07:002009-06-11T21:33:43.301-07:00Sneak Peek<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3618839212/" title="PlacematPeek2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2087/3618839212_50011bc62a_o.jpg" alt="PlacematPeek2" width="500" height="367" /></a><br /><br />Shhhhhhh, it's a suprise!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3618018043/" title="PlacematPeek1 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3341/3618018043_ecef4d9f40_o.jpg" alt="PlacematPeek1" width="500" height="372" /></a><br /><br />for <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/placemat_quilt_swap/">this swap</a>...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3618839230/" title="PlacematPeek3 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3379/3618839230_c445494bcb_o.jpg" alt="PlacematPeek3" width="500" height="401" /></a><br /><br />I hope my partner likes it. A small bird shall be flying her way very soon!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-13830779867491374012009-06-07T16:34:00.000-07:002009-06-07T20:18:05.063-07:00eat pizza + save the earth<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3605643306/" title="JediEsme by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3360/3605643306_ef7634a9bf.jpg" alt="JediEsme" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br />If you're in Portland, and like pizza, and like the earth, be sure to eat at the Hawthorne Hotlips pizza on Sunday, June 21 (aka, Father's day). Hotlips has committed 100% of their sales that day to reduce their carbon footprint. Eat pizza, save the earth. Can it be any easier?<br /><br />If you don't know what the heck I'm talking about, check out the genius that is <a href="http://carrotmob.org/about/">carrotmob</a>.melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-27068858213991180452009-06-05T22:13:00.000-07:002009-06-05T22:41:27.177-07:00Endings and starts<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3599216027/" title="CSAWeek1 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3297/3599216027_bcbe969ab2_o.jpg" alt="CSAWeek1" width="500" height="378" /></a><br /><br />Today was the end of year celebration at Holden’s preschool. He got a little verklempt on the way home when the true meaning of “last day of school” finally sunk in. But, promises of a blossoming summer and keeping in touch with preschool friends cheered him up.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3600025772/" title="CSAStrawberries by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3318/3600025772_fb5400b030_o.jpg" alt="CSAStrawberries" width="500" height="409" /></a><br /><br />On the other end of the spectrum, we picked up our first beloved <a href="http://web.me.com/gofarm/Groundwork_Organics/Home.html">CSA</a> box of the season today. It’s overflowing with promise of fresh, local, organic veggie-inspired meals. I’m most excited to try some veggieness on the grilled pizzas we’ve been <s>obsessed with</s> consuming in very large quantities lately. I’m thinking garlic scape and goat cheese pizza tomorrow…that is, if I can keep my little garlic scape lover from <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2008/06/friday-veggies.html">eating them all first</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3600025806/" title="CSAScapes by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3374/3600025806_3a2298fc62_o.jpg" alt="CSAScapes" width="500" height="463" /></a><br /><br />So with preschool behind us and a box of veggie goodness at our feet, I’m excited to embark on another season of <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/search?q=veg+friday">Veg Friday</a>. Like last season, I’ll attempt to document our fearless journey through CSA veggie-eating whilst conjuring up clever Veg Friday post titles each week (aka, the hard part). This year we’re receiving a full share of veggies rather than a half, but we’ve forgone planting a garden in favor of finishing our house renovation so I think it will all balance out in the end.<br /><br />Once again, I’m determined to see No Veggie Left Behind (or, put in the compost pile). Care to join me?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In the bin this week:</span><br />Red leaf lettuce<br />Carrots<br />Cucumbers<br />Snap peas<br />Basil<br />Sweet onions<br />Garlic scapes (aka whistles)<br />‘Red gold’ new potatoes<br />Cauliflower<br />Strawberriesmelissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-6058211572584591702009-06-02T21:51:00.000-07:002009-06-02T22:38:29.953-07:00Today<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3591666522/" title="Duckpond by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2443/3591666522_5a2e702098_o.jpg" alt="Duckpond" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Today we were anthropologists, discovering newly unearthed relics of ancient times.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3590858159/" title="DrivewayDrawings by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2454/3590858159_2313a118e2.jpg" alt="DrivewayDrawings" width="372" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Today we were civil engineers, creating intricate tricycle pathways through cities of ants and grass and moss.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3590858273/" title="Spaceship by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3406/3590858273_5703577635_o.jpg" alt="Spaceship" width="500" height="375" /></a><br /><br />Today we were rocket scientists, building towering spaceships that flew and blasted and fought faraway space wars.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3591666604/" title="Bugwatch by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3591666604_948f17745b_o.jpg" alt="Bugwatch" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Today we were “antemologists” (as holden coined), studying the habits and antics of tiny creatures.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3591666740/" title="NatureWalk by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3354/3591666740_00c0846cbc.jpg" alt="NatureWalk" width="375" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Today we were poets, physicists, storytellers, naturalists, lyricists and rulers of the world.<br /><br />Today was a good day. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-5169402414765565852009-06-01T07:44:00.001-07:002009-06-01T08:18:40.167-07:00Giveaway winner!Wow! So many super sweet comments on my giveaway, thanks! Random.org says <a href="http://simplystylishdesigns.blogspot.com/"></a><a href="http://zenforyou.dalefg.net/">Maricris from Zen Ventures</a> is the winner:<br /><dl id="comments-block"><dt class="comment-author blogger-comment-icon" id="c4839030055396616844">Maricris Zen Mama said... </dt><dd class="comment-body"> <p>unoriginal or not, I love it! So please count me in!</p> </dd><dd class="comment-footer"> <span class="comment-timestamp"> <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2009/05/sms-giveaway-day-sequel.html?showComment=1243546651198#c4839030055396616844" title="comment permalink"> </a>2:37 PM</span></dd></dl>Congrats, enjoy and happy June to everyone!!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-32346743981341612342009-05-27T05:00:00.000-07:002009-06-01T07:40:35.712-07:00SMS Giveaway day, the sequel<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=806"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 137px; height: 137px;" src="http://www.sewmamasew.com/media/blog/MayGiveawayDay.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=806">Sew Mama Sew giveaway day</a>: View blogs with awesome giveaways, comment, win. Easy peasy!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_nEHOcTDFgW8/ShzR57tdjXI/AAAAAAAAAM8/Z8Vre09b-kI/s1600-h/SpacemanToteSet.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_nEHOcTDFgW8/ShzR57tdjXI/AAAAAAAAAM8/Z8Vre09b-kI/s320/SpacemanToteSet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340374051365686642" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm being unoriginal and giving away another activity tote + crayon roll, same as last time. I had something else in mind but accidentally spent 6 hours at the zoo yesterday. So yes, I am shamelessly blaming the penguins and meerkats for my lack of originality.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_nEHOcTDFgW8/ShzSKqAHyAI/AAAAAAAAANE/6dFTPvIbo7I/s1600-h/MidnightGardenToteSet.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_nEHOcTDFgW8/ShzSKqAHyAI/AAAAAAAAANE/6dFTPvIbo7I/s320/MidnightGardenToteSet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340374338669889538" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'll pick a random winner from comments on this post on Sunday, May 31st to win either the black floral or the spaceman activity tote pictured here, winner's choice. More pics/views of both totes & crayon rolls are <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5152535">in my shop</a>.<br /><br />Good luck! And, be sure to check out the <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=806">other giveaway goodness via SMS</a>!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com317tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-56408645816879968092009-05-25T07:34:00.001-07:002009-05-25T08:21:10.343-07:00Mini quilt monday<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3562541987/" title="vintageminiquilt by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3562541987_da10f513d6.jpg" alt="vintageminiquilt" width="389" height="500" /></a><br /><br />It's Monday in May which can only mean one thing: it's time for another<a href="http://stitchindye.blogspot.com/search/label/Mini%20Quilt%20Mondays"> mini quilt</a>, of course.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3563356194/" title="vintageminiquiltbackdetail by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3563356194_aec754fb03.jpg" alt="vintageminiquiltbackdetail" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br />I call this one "ode to vintage fabric" because that pile of vintage fabrics in my craft room doesn't get used quite as often as it should.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3562542017/" title="vintageminiquiltdetail by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3578/3562542017_8c613e7876_o.jpg" alt="vintageminiquiltdetail" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />The big blocks on the front are my all-time favorite print (right now) and I have a couple large panels of the same fabric destined to become curtains in my new craft room.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3563356262/" title="vintageminiquiltback by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3561/3563356262_8cd7e7ca71.jpg" alt="vintageminiquiltback" width="422" height="500" /></a><br /><br />I plan on hanging this little quilt on the wall, to be all matchy-matchy with the curtains.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3563356304/" title="vintageminiquiltchair by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2107/3563356304_ca442e6fa1.jpg" alt="vintageminiquiltchair" width="480" height="500" /></a><br /><br />That is, if a <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2009/04/quilt-for-fish.html">small fish</a> doesn't claim it first!<br /><br />Happy day, all!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-5957709513717847632009-05-15T20:47:00.000-07:002009-05-15T21:34:36.839-07:00Goats (not bugs)<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3534513329/" title="goatfriend by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3534513329_1d30bf5f86_o.jpg" alt="goatfriend" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />That bug picture was creeping me out so I'm posting a few shots from our goat farm adventure today. Goats trump bugs anyday.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3535330252/" title="goatbaby by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3594/3535330252_46608d3cf7_o.jpg" alt="goatbaby" width="500" height="420" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3535330212/" title="goatxing by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2349/3535330212_0ba7a55d4b.jpg" alt="goatxing" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br />We had goat milk ice cream: super yummy! It doesn't taste goat-y at all!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3535330272/" title="goatfarm by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3344/3535330272_823e3fe1f3.jpg" alt="goatfarm" width="333" height="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3534513417/" title="goatfarm2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3330/3534513417_83b22a589e_o.jpg" alt="goatfarm2" width="500" height="413" /></a><br /><br />I adore goats and their unfussy, aloof ways. I always thought it would be fun to have one roaming around, nibbling the lawn, keeping us all in check. But I learned today that they are browsers, not grazers as I thought (they prefer to snack on the tips of woody shrubs and leaves). Bummer. Seems sheep are the lawn mowers and I'm not a big fan of the sheep sooooo, livestockless we will remain for the time being (although I've been eyeing some mighty fine chicken coops around blogland lately. Hmmmmm....)<br /><br />Happy weekend everyone!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-89936691164105557302009-05-14T17:59:00.000-07:002009-05-14T18:43:58.044-07:00Name that pupa<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3532642892/" title="bugonstick by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2066/3532642892_be063eb6f0_o.jpg" alt="bugonstick" width="500" height="388" /></a><br /><br />...or larva or chrysalis or whatever heck form of baby bug it may be.<br /><br />We found it in the yard today, buried in the moist ground. It's a little over an inch long, dark red in color and has a hard, armor-like shell that <s>makes your skin crawl</s> makes you really super enthusiastic about researching this little backyard neighbor of ours!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3531826461/" title="bug by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2071/3531826461_fd16b66080_o.jpg" alt="bug" width="500" height="387" /></a><br /><br />It took all my courage to take these pictures and as I type, I'm trying my <span style="font-style: italic;">hardest </span>not to get overtaken by the eebie jeebies. I'm not a fan of the bugs.<br /><br />We've half-heartedly poured through our insect field guide but all these little critters look the same (I'm sorry, I hope that doesn't sound insect-ist of me). Any bug enthusiasts out there that know what this thing is?melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-15470756275782644932009-05-13T09:21:00.000-07:002009-05-13T12:47:40.190-07:00Cookie meatballs + quilt blocks<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3528439325/" title="cookieballs2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2147/3528439325_30d3cc7b38_o.jpg" alt="cookieballs2" width="500" height="400" /></a><br /><br />After reading <a href="http://saltandchocolate.blogspot.com/2009/05/healthy-cookie-that-is-really-good.html">Mary Beth's post</a> yesterday and noticing that "make cookies" mysteriously appeared on our day's to-do list (ahem), I decided it was time to take the <a href="http://3191.visualblogging.com/archives/11518_1443007713/328279">Clean Food Cookie </a>plunge. Or make "meatball cookies" as Holden later declared them.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3529251554/" title="cookieballs by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2105/3529251554_36ea577473.jpg" alt="cookieballs" width="415" height="500" /></a><br /><br />Ahh, that's a better, non-meatball-y shot (somewhat).<br /><br />I was so glad to see the footnote about using unsweetened carob chips because I have an overflowing jar-full that I mistakenly bought awhile back and haven't been able to coerce my kids into eating. <span style="font-style: italic;">But it <span style="font-weight: bold;">looks </span>like chocolate!!!????</span> No dice from my chocolate purist children.<br /><br />I changed a couple things. Ok, that's not true -- I changed <span style="font-style: italic;">a lot</span> of things, but the cookies are still the same in spirit, right?<br /><br /><li>used white whole wheat flour<br /></li><li>swapped cardamom for the cinnamon<br /></li><li>used 1/2 coconut oil and 1/2 canola oil<br /></li><li>used brown sugar instead of maple syrup (didn't have any on hand, otherwise I'm all about the maple syrup)<br /></li><li>used pecans instead of walnuts<br /></li><li>used unsweetened carob chips instead of the chocolate</li><br />The sweet, patient cookies stood up to all my wacky changes (whew) and are delicious.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3528439211/" title="12squareforkathryn by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2160/3528439211_870283a8d5_o.jpg" alt="12squareforkathryn" width="500" height="371" /></a><br /><br />In crafty news, I finished <a href="http://handmadekate.typepad.com/">Kathryn's</a> requested 9-patch block for <a href="http://twelvebytwelvequiltbee.blogspot.com/">12 square</a>,<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3528439375/" title="12squarequilt by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/3528439375_bd6b1e0ff1.jpg" alt="12squarequilt" width="500" height="355" /></a><br /><br />and here is the state of my 12 square quilt. I arranged the blocks on my bed (ala <a href="http://www.thimblythings.com/2009/04/25/insanity/">Kristina</a>) and am trying to figure out what color sashing to use, if any. Any suggestions? It's a little confusing with my bedspread down there in the lower left and the light solid is blue, not white.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3529282410/" title="secretblocks by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2029/3529282410_dc89430244.jpg" alt="secretblocks" width="500" height="347" /></a><br /><br />Speaking of blocks, here's a teeny peek at a quilt that I've started for a very special someone. Working with these fabrics instantly raises my spirits because who can be grumpy around these colors?melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-29838469327196169452009-05-08T11:08:00.000-07:002009-05-08T11:18:07.248-07:00improvements<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3513619488/" title="stilts1 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3541/3513619488_1224f42ffe.jpg" alt="stilts1" width="317" height="500" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Good</span> (in theory).<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3513619370/" title="stilts2 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3513619370_d1d5abb5b9.jpg" alt="stilts2" width="296" height="500" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Better </span><span>(but still makes me wince, even in pictures).</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3513619420/" title="stilts3 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3513619420_d6a53727d6.jpg" alt="stilts3" width="329" height="500" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Best</span>!<br /><br />Have a wonderful weekend, mothers and all!!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12599945.post-89264322813930499392009-05-05T18:37:00.000-07:002009-05-05T18:57:32.604-07:00Craft Book Challenge: April (in May)<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3506374822/" title="quiltedcoasters by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3584/3506374822_683ee51d99_o.jpg" alt="quiltedcoasters" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />Just in time for May, here is April’s <a href="http://ebabble.blogspot.com/2009/01/for-love-of-craft-books.html">Craft Book Challenge</a> project: quilted coasters from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Last-Minute-Patchwork-Quilted-Joelle-Hoverson/dp/1584796340">Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts</a> by Joelle Hoverson. And Last Minute they definitely were – I finished sewing them as a birthday gift for my BFF a half hour before she arrived. Whew.<br /><br />These were so fun and easy, I’d highly recommend making them. The concentric quilting is mesmerizingly relaxing and the construction fast and easy. It took me less than an hour to make 4 coasters (not counting the humming and hawing over the perfect fabric choice for BFF).<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/whatknotpics/3506374898/" title="quiltedcoasters3 by melmelmel, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3632/3506374898_f97127364d_o.jpg" alt="quiltedcoasters3" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />The only part I struggled with was inserting the batting into the sewn fabric pocket. This would probably be easy for normal people, but I go bonkers over dreaded tasks like putting the comforter inside the duvet cover. Once I finally decided to listen to that annoying voice in my head that said, “it’s just a <span style="font-style: italic;">coaster</span>. Leave it <span style="font-style: italic;">be</span>” things improved. And those little bumps and tucks disappear once it’s quilted anyway. Yeah, I need to listen to that little voice of reason more often.<br /><br />Anyway, BFF hearted them and agreed that I should have a matching pair, so I’ll definitely be revisiting this pattern.<br /><br />Happy birthday, sweet goil. And go fuzzballs!!melissa s.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17767276171724800126noreply@blogger.com8