tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37540631795774337152024-02-19T15:30:08.669+00:00Daisies and New BeginningsFinding new things to do, quilting and living a thrifty life.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-44930661397172410202016-01-11T18:46:00.000+00:002016-01-11T20:52:54.408+00:00A Sad Day......At Christmastime 42 years ago, I started a relationship with a man. Today it ended. Or rather it didn't. We never met, although we were in the same place at the same time on a handful of occasions. So much of what he did was the backdrop to my formative years. From questionable taste in fashion in an attempt to emulate him, to the amount of time I spent in my bedroom, not quite alone (he was always there), to the future musical choices I would make and therefore find myself amongst like-minded people. <br />
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<img alt="David Bowie" class="a-dynamic-image a-stretch-vertical" data-a-dynamic-image="{"http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._SX466_PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg":[466,466],"http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._SX425_PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg":[425,425],"http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg":[500,500],"http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._SY355_PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg":[355,355],"http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._SY450_PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg":[450,450]}" data-old-hires="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LcwUIWO9L._SY355_PJautoripBadge,BottomRight,4,-40_OU11__.jpg" height="200" id="landingImage" style="max-height: 326px; max-width: 326px;" width="200" /><br />
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The first album I actually owned.<br />
R.I.P. Mr Bowie.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-64753607101917416492016-01-10T19:16:00.001+00:002016-01-10T19:16:24.855+00:00Sunday Evening Wind Down<a data-cthref="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj6zNiv-J_KAhUGfA8KHe1ZBucQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftimothymakeadifference2014.blogspot.com%2F2014_05_01_archive.html&psig=AFQjCNGBzioMIh-7C_c2mEhyHlYVksZuRw&ust=1452539130707634" data-ved="0ahUKEwj6zNiv-J_KAhUGfA8KHe1ZBucQjRwIBw" href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj6zNiv-J_KAhUGfA8KHe1ZBucQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftimothymakeadifference2014.blogspot.com%2F2014_05_01_archive.html&psig=AFQjCNGBzioMIh-7C_c2mEhyHlYVksZuRw&ust=1452539130707634" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="211" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.cottonroots.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/your-life-laundry-washing-line.jpg" style="margin-top: 90px;" width="320" /></a><br />
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Sunday evening feels quite different to the rest of the week. The TV on offer is at a slower pace, you vow to get an early night and probably spent some time getting things ready for the morning.<br />
Starting with getting the washing done and dry. No chance of putting it out on the line at the moment, so it's artistically arranged around a radiator. <br />
I've got a week's worth of work clothes all clean and ready, I know what I'm wearing tomorrow and the packed lunch (leftovers) is safely in a Tupperware box.<br />
My plans for the rest of tonight are a bit of telly, an hour with a book and 8 hours sleep. I can hope.<br />
I have lots to do in the coming week, both at home and at work, but tonight is for relaxation.<br />
Feel free to read this with a smug grin if you are retired.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-3556773484085217722016-01-09T18:53:00.002+00:002016-01-09T18:55:53.006+00:00Charity Shop Bargain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My latest charity shop haul included a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002G8T0PK/ref=s9_simh_gw_p201_d5_i1?pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=0AVC9G4J46A0DNP3ASXF&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=577048787&pf_rd_i=desktop" target="_blank">Lifemax lamp</a>, bought for £6. I thought it looked a bit like those hideously expensive craft lamps you see at quilt shows or possibly one of those <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Seasonal-affective-disorder/Pages/Introduction.aspx" target="_blank">S.A.D.</a> lights. Either way it was a bargain. It looks as though buying one new is best part of 40 quid / $58!<br />
It works and has been tested for safety. However, a quick look at Amazon puts a replacement bulb at around £11. I'll have to source a different supplier when the time comes.<br />
It gives off a daylight type of brightness and, as such is ideal for use when sewing.<br />
When I bought my current sewing machine, it had almost all the features I was looking for , but reviews pointed out that the light wasn't very good. I went with it anyway, but that one point remains a little disappointing, especially when spending hundreds of pounds.<br />
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I quite liked the book I read earlier in the week, so looked at my library's online catalogue to see if there was anything by the same author. The book above was available, but at another branch to my local one. I reserved it and in only two days, I had an email to say it was ready for collection. Aren't libraries brilliant? I don't think the service would be that fast if I'd ordered and paid for it from Amazon! It's simplistic to say that libraries are free - they are not, of course. However, unless they are used, the risk of even greater cuts is inevitable. I'm lucky to live in an area where this service is still very good. Although I do have to put up with unrepaired road surfaces full of potholes. I suppose you can't have everything.</div>
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-4937568576370964912016-01-08T22:14:00.000+00:002016-01-08T22:14:08.446+00:00A Slip Up!<a data-cthref="/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiVnbuPnZvKAhVEFQ8KHUnzDokQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapplesandwormholes.wordpress.com%2Fcategory%2Fengland%2F&psig=AFQjCNHL_PxNSWe-SGUBDYJVpjzL5JvTSQ&ust=1452377261382308" data-ved="0ahUKEwiVnbuPnZvKAhVEFQ8KHUnzDokQjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiVnbuPnZvKAhVEFQ8KHUnzDokQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapplesandwormholes.wordpress.com%2Fcategory%2Fengland%2F&psig=AFQjCNHL_PxNSWe-SGUBDYJVpjzL5JvTSQ&ust=1452377261382308" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="213" id="irc_mi" src="https://applesandwormholes.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/fishandchips.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></a><br />
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We went out to eat last night. Only to a nice pub - nothing too fancy.<br />
I had the vegetarian fish and chips. It's made with halloumi cheese, fried in batter. It's a long time (at least 35 years) since I ate fish, but I think this replicates it quite well. <br />
The dish gets a bit of a mixed press, but I like it. It is, however, about a million calories, so a treat once in a blue moon.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-65826890062705954292016-01-07T23:45:00.002+00:002016-01-07T23:45:47.989+00:00He's Behind You!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My nephew and me went to a pantomime. His first and my first for a great number of decades.<br />
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We stopped off at a coffee shop before going in and I ordered him a glass of milk. I don't think this particular chain is geared up for children, unless they're having over-priced fizzy stuff which he doesn't have. I was a little concerned about the size of this and the fact it was in a (breakable) glass.</div>
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I shouldn't have worried. The milk was dispensed with in one go. Hope he doesn't take to drinking pints like that in later life.</div>
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The afternoon went well, although he was extremely frustrated by the main characters who took no notice of him or the rest of the audience, when he quite rightly pointed out that the skeleton was behind them. He was really quite annoyed.</div>
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<span id="goog_871314305"></span><span id="goog_871314306"></span><br />DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-40361276472078574182016-01-06T16:58:00.001+00:002016-01-06T16:58:53.685+00:00Fabric Purchases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do I need anymore fabric? Probably not, but I was short of light colours for my string quilt, so bought 2 metres. Also bought 2 metres of other quilt weight fabric. The check material is a stretchy one, bought with the intention of making PJ bottoms - you can't have too many of these. I don't like buying pyjama sets as I have tons of t-shirts that work perfectly well as a top for sleeping in.<br />
Before you ask - I have never been out in public wearing nightwear (maybe to the wheelie bin).<br />
All bought from <a href="http://www.abakhan.co.uk/" target="_blank">Abakhan</a> of course. I occasionally buy online, but you can't beat a trip to and actual real live fabric store.<br />
Abakhan is unusual in that it has lots of bins with different fabrics in and they are priced by the kg. I just head for the craft cottons bins, usually priced at £19.99 a kg. Once you get your head around this being about £6 a metre, it's easy. If you find a big piece of something, they'll cut it for you as long as there is at 1/2 metre left for the next customer. <br />
I haven't been for my walk yet, today, so off out in a minute to clock up some miles. To hit target, I need to do a minimum of 20 miles a week and tomorrow is the 7th. Don't want to fall behind on week one!DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-83900525591632122992016-01-05T21:30:00.000+00:002016-01-05T21:30:36.002+00:00Snow Flower and the Secret Fan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I haven't been reading so much in recent months, but have decided I should prioritise library books over the rubbish TV on offer.</div>
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I started this a couple of days ago and the fact I have already finished it suggests it wasn't a particularly difficult read. It's set in 19th Century China and references a culture I know almost nothing about. The descriptions of foot binding are horrific, but confined to the initial act as if the issues weren't there for the rest of the lives of these women. I think I'll find out some more about this subject.</div>
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My copy had a different cover to the one above (obviously, I just pinched the picture off A*****n), I notice it says it's been mad into a film. I'll have to watch out for that.</div>
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Unfortunately, the time spent reading should have been at the sewing machine, so no progress on string quilt. However, colour scheme for baby quilt is sorted - turquoise, red, a bit of yellow and lots of white. Decision made!</div>
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-7114319411886065822016-01-04T19:11:00.000+00:002016-01-04T19:11:03.021+00:00Logcabin Block Baby QuiltHaving decided to make a quilt for the impending arrival of a new baby in the family, I looked to Pinterest for inspiration. The only problem with that is the information overload. I needed to go for something that was within my skill level. The pictures on Pinterest can make you feel quite inadequate.<br />
Next decision was about colour. Despite alleged sexual equality and all the politics around it, the adage 'pink for a girl and blue for a boy' is still firmly entrenched. <br />
So, do I wait to find out what flavour she's having or go for a gender neutral colour (that'll be yellow, then)?<br />
<a data-cthref="/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiFt6e2wI7KAhVEAA8KHWXcAl8QjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fannaleih%2F3092255321&psig=AFQjCNELiOq3JX8xSZT-mZJD3_3Ds8v4TQ&ust=1451940057930542" data-ved="0ahUKEwiFt6e2wI7KAhVEAA8KHWXcAl8QjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiFt6e2wI7KAhVEAA8KHWXcAl8QjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fannaleih%2F3092255321&psig=AFQjCNELiOq3JX8xSZT-mZJD3_3Ds8v4TQ&ust=1451940057930542" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="240" id="irc_mi" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3258/3092255321_b10929fcf9.jpg" style="margin-top: 29px;" width="320" /></a><br />
I like the look of this one. (It's not mine - credit to <a href="http://annaleih.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Anna Levengood)</a><br />
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Yesterday's walk was a bit rubbish, only a couple of miles, but redeemed myself today with 3.5 miles. Almost enjoyed it. I went out after work. Had quite a busy day today, which was fine. Less fine was listening to a grown woman listing every gift she got for Christmas. Surely the question, "what did you get for Christmas?" is a bit like "how are you?" No-one actually expects a detailed answer - it's small talk.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-29294422714072168532016-01-03T20:39:00.002+00:002016-01-03T20:39:36.016+00:00Thank You<img alt="Image result for thanks for the gift" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTg-e_7Jlyb-3J9EUCQ5kqvpzSQV_SIkfzIraT-yA7gyVEHy9gk" data-sz="f" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="C2yutEFhRU6g9M:" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTg-e_7Jlyb-3J9EUCQ5kqvpzSQV_SIkfzIraT-yA7gyVEHy9gk" style="height: 163px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: -12px; margin-top: 0px; width: 310px;" /><br />
How quickly would you wait to thank someone for a gift? What methods are acceptable?<br />
As you can guess, I'm asking from a personal point of view.<br />
I wouldn't expect a letter in this day and age, but maybe an email or a text, preferably within a day or two. For me 9 days and a FB comment just seems a little less than polite. Still better than no acknowledgement at all, I suppose. Or am I over-reacting because it doesn't matter anymore?DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-86453582318642668612016-01-02T22:26:00.000+00:002016-01-02T22:26:22.093+00:00Roll On Monday<img alt="Image result for walking in the dark" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSoxnlyxTs62tmk9hOp3HBi_vl5D0_eAkq62FWJIjZP8hE8EDO5" data-sz="f" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="mJzle4DsYzifMM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSoxnlyxTs62tmk9hOp3HBi_vl5D0_eAkq62FWJIjZP8hE8EDO5" style="height: 168px; margin-left: -22px; margin-right: -19px; margin-top: 0px; width: 300px;" /><br />
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Well today's efforts were a little more productive. I managed to log 3.58 miles, most of it in the rain. I had no choice other than to walk after it had gone dark. This restricts my route as I feel I must avoid being in certain places, like the park for instance.<br />
When the nights are lighter, it will be more interesting. Spring isn't that far away, is it?<br />
<img alt="Image result for back to work" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSaateazYXzzGKfvoNU8RN9npjDT9gJwCR_3uU83mh3BzJ_SOQLyA" data-sz="f" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="GxEbbkGeLCxszM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSaateazYXzzGKfvoNU8RN9npjDT9gJwCR_3uU83mh3BzJ_SOQLyA" style="height: 179px; margin-left: -8px; margin-right: -8px; margin-top: 0px; width: 224px;" /><br />
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I'm not wishing the year away, but will be glad when it gets to Monday. I know a lot of people are probably dreading going back to work. I've had enough of not being able to work out what day of the week it is! Not looking forward to the increased traffic, though.<br />
We still have tomorrow and aside from fulfilling my walking goal, I'll be mainly driving a sewing machine.<br />
I've started a string quilt, requiring 72 blocks - I've done 15. Tomorrow's plan is to make a bigger dent in this. DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-6120227572329930982016-01-01T20:35:00.000+00:002016-01-01T20:35:24.654+00:00A Challenge<br />
<img alt="Image result for walking pictures" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQI_gefzYyz9Ydyu_0KFx9DHBPrsJhMo6IwyLJP-1G7greYO1FB" data-sz="f" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="OnNRSROHEy9qkM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQI_gefzYyz9Ydyu_0KFx9DHBPrsJhMo6IwyLJP-1G7greYO1FB" style="height: 161px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; width: 271px;" /><br />
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Ilona over at <a href="http://meanqueen-lifeaftermoney.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Life After Money</a> set herself the challenge of walking 1000 miles in a year. Read about it <a href="http://meanqueen-lifeaftermoney.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/1000-miles-or-bust.html" target="_blank">here.</a> She also suggested that others might join her - lots of people have, including me!<br />
I started today, (clichéd, yes, but who cares).<br />
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<img alt="Image result for walking pictures" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTT5J10C95Kf5B2KPEVmqT3OEDmtJjCPaSDjn9GQvLnV633Z3liZg" data-sz="f" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="Xbwg8CPaHDBDpM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTT5J10C95Kf5B2KPEVmqT3OEDmtJjCPaSDjn9GQvLnV633Z3liZg" style="height: 183px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: -16px; margin-top: 0px; width: 275px;" /><br />
Well today I managed 2.9 miles. It's a start and I've only to do it another 364 times to hit the target. Good job we have an extra day this year.<br />
I completed a 10k 'Fun' run last year and was painfully slow, but I did cross the line and raise a few hundred pounds for my favourite charity. The anticipated fitness levels di not materialise unfortunately.<br />
At the very least this challenge will see me getting my money's worth out of the hideously expensive trainers I bought for last year's event.<br />
Let's see what I manage tomorrow!<br />
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-6920797750609707922015-02-09T19:55:00.003+00:002015-02-09T19:55:36.421+00:00Cat Bed<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Now i know after all the toys all Betsy ever really wanted was this empty catfood box. She only just squeazes into it." class="scaledImageFitHeight img" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/p296x100/10599624_10204220222644262_2135189409513000494_n.jpg?oh=ee175c5f6ed3c9b99111367c4b3e3991&oe=5594767B&__gda__=1435545197_e1fee7213a5dcdebd9bbac2564fa439b" style="left: 0px;" width="150" /></div>
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A friend acquired a new (to her) cat, so I thought she might appreciate a little quilted cat bed for the new arrival.<br />
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Out this came..<br />
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And this was the result.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGK2TN9AMM7jdtvTBaYvsqO2Ix35km2qgKkW2EvTXT6bLv9XM0QgHb1rtpUB8LLvvD17fOdvziH56bOtsVl61H9zHiydoHY0xjebSDU4cQdV0pI3ea1LKhGJFOF0y1uqlUkXyyw1mgjbo/s1600/Cat+Bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGK2TN9AMM7jdtvTBaYvsqO2Ix35km2qgKkW2EvTXT6bLv9XM0QgHb1rtpUB8LLvvD17fOdvziH56bOtsVl61H9zHiydoHY0xjebSDU4cQdV0pI3ea1LKhGJFOF0y1uqlUkXyyw1mgjbo/s1600/Cat+Bed.jpg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was made with scraps - some of them new, some recycled fabric.<br />
And the new kitty - think she's settling in!<br />
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-20482660988252156402015-02-07T18:30:00.000+00:002015-02-07T18:30:29.265+00:00Quilty DilemmaI've made a baby quilt top and now I'm ready to get it basted and quilted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMu0dV10ZK89MJ1LzI3MHqzLr-yXMmfBGgZ_y8I2aj_TVVgStRMY3UQ0im1H14d2e55gtYdhSJa2ulkcldQgOXoYqP_-Ko7tTiGpseHxdGLI9r_v-3bKCOa5mJrkAj7xZoYFdW-IDZx0/s1600/IMG_20150207_093118289+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMu0dV10ZK89MJ1LzI3MHqzLr-yXMmfBGgZ_y8I2aj_TVVgStRMY3UQ0im1H14d2e55gtYdhSJa2ulkcldQgOXoYqP_-Ko7tTiGpseHxdGLI9r_v-3bKCOa5mJrkAj7xZoYFdW-IDZx0/s1600/IMG_20150207_093118289+(2).jpg" height="272" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's about 36" square and made with a Moda Folklore charm pack plus a white border and an outer border of some orange Katie Spain fabric, which I found in a box and don't remember buying.</div>
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I usually just go for a safe option and quilt with straight (ish) lines. So, stick with what I know or push myself to do something a little more challenging?</div>
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-48684259441276463832015-02-06T13:39:00.000+00:002015-02-06T19:45:45.055+00:00Waving Not Drowning........With apologies to<u> </u><a href="http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/not-waving-but-drowning/" target="_blank">Stevie Smith</a>. I hadn't added to this blog in a long while.<br />
When I started it I had just left a job that I thought I would stay in until retirement, That wasn't to be. Whilst I only had to deal with unemployment for around two weeks, I found it difficult to settle. Subsequently, I've had four jobs in 2 1/2 years - not good. Until recently, my only gain had been weight.<br />
It has taken all this time for me to get over the shock of losing something which was an intrinsic part of my life for so long, but thankfully I think I have. A few months ago I found the perfect position, so feel very hopeful about the future.<br />
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A lot has happened in the last couple of years - quite a lot of it bad stuff, from bereavements to a financial crisis to a mind numbingly boring and badly paid job to finding out who your real friends are (fewer than before) to an accident that left me housebound for nine weeks. <br />
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Not everything is perfect (if anything), but I think about the future a little more optimistically! <br />
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In blog land there is a tendency to post shiny, lovely things. I haven't been shiny or lovely in a long time, but attempted to focus on the positive stuff. I do, however have an all-singing, all-dancing shiny new sewing machine*, courtesy of my other half. Very pleased with it.<br />
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* Relative to what I had before - that one cost £15 second hand (and the one before), this one was hundreds and new. I know the sky's the limit, but for me, there was a cut off point. </div>
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-85491283634194322102015-02-05T13:28:00.000+00:002015-02-05T13:28:56.747+00:00GBSB TonightIt's that time of year again - The 3rd series of <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03myqj2" target="_blank">The Great British Sewing Bee</a> starts tonight. Very much looking forward to this!<br />
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I'm hoping that I'll be inspired to have a go at sewing clothes again. When I was much (much) younger, I made most of my 'going out' clothes. This was necessary being a sort of glam punk ( spent a lot of money on hairspray and garish make-up).<br />
Now my tastes are much more conservative, but it would be nice to make well fitting items without spending a fortune.<br />
I think I need (well, want) to buy one of these!<br />
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A fast approaching birthday might be the solution. Wonder if Himself is feeling generous????<br />
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I have a baby quilt on the go at the moment - top finished, so I must press it and take a picture.<br />
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I used a Moda Folklore charm pack with some white and a bit of an orange Katie Spain fabric. The colours are much better than this image. Definitely a lot of orange going on.</div>
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-51569293201125146862014-02-05T20:27:00.003+00:002014-02-05T20:27:56.200+00:00Pay It Forward .........Firstly a very warm hello to my newest follower, A Vintage Kitten. I'm always flattered that someone takes the time to read my very scant offerings!<br />
Sometime ago Diane at <a href="http://thecheshirequilter.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Cheshire Quilter</a> posted about the Pay-It-Forward idea. This is the original <a href="http://thecheshirequilter.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/i-think-i-worked-this-out.html" target="_blank">post.</a> It was several months ago, I sent my details to Diane then promptly forgot about it.<br />
Well, true to her word, a parcel arrived!<br />
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Lots of lovely things including a card with a cheerful message. There's a large piece of fabric with Russian dolls on - I have just the project for that. The case in the foreground was made by Diane - I know this because she blogged about it recently. You can't tell from the photo, but the stitching is incredibly neat. I very much in awe of Diane's abilities. <br />
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So, it was mission accomplished - I was surprised and cheered up and am of course, very grateful. Thanks, Diane.<br />
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The next job therefore is to keep it going. Here's how it works - if you'd like a surprise, to be sent sometime in the next 12 months, just leave me a comment. <br />
I'll do this for the first three followers and I'll come back to you for your details.<br />
It could arrive anytime in the next year and I promise not to forget to send it.<a href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&ved=0CAQQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrawception.com%2Fviewgame%2FOj2K6CEAtX%2Fan-elephant-forgets-to-never-forget%2F&ei=dJ7yUsWgJMmrhAfRn4DwBQ&usg=AFQjCNEJ_zzucKrBpHwKxpZ4p6zf7m8krw&sig2=w_XjGMxAr9de_TxxvJLB1g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="166" id="irc_ilrp_i" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcROFDRnF0e2eESt-uGTplm9mwRz_9JRm5B-zGULU8PyplNMgrBU" style="height: 250px; margin-top: 92px; width: 300px;" width="200" /></a><br />
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-13588335239330145432014-01-06T22:44:00.000+00:002014-01-06T22:44:18.090+00:00Old Quilt, New Home<br />
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I've been meaning to post about this quilt for a long time. I ought it quite a while ago from a charity shop in Congleton. It didn't cost much and to be honest, at first glance it looked like it was past it. It smelled a bit damp. <br />
Anyway, a quick go in the washing machine resolved the problems. It is actually quite lovely. I really like it.<br />
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The interesting thing about it was the label on the back. It was made by a lady called Anne in 1996, in Congleton. As I know another blogger Diane @ <a href="http://thecheshirequilter.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Cheshire Quilter</a> attends a quilt group in Congleton. I thought I'd ask if she knew this lady. She did!<br />
After Diane passed on my contact details to Anne, I had a lovely email back from her. She says it was one of her early quilts and made as a gift. She was very modest, as the quilt is superb and I know from Diane that she is an award winning quilter.<br />
I'm really pleased to own it and although it has a hanging sleeve on the back, I prefer to make use of it. It's often on the sofa - that is when it's not in the washing machine (cat hair!).<br />
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It will cover a double bed, but I can't get it all on one picture!DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-1270862638174060762014-01-04T23:24:00.001+00:002014-01-04T23:24:24.219+00:00Charity Shop Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had quite a productive time. Sometimes visits to charity shops doesn't yield anything worth having.<br />
Not today, though. I've got a new in packaging notebook and pen, a set of three sewing related prints (destined for sewing room wall, aka back bedroom), a patchwork and quilting book - nothing too exciting, but some nice photos and a very good quality white 100% cotton sheet. <br />
Put it on the bed? No, I'll be cutting that into squares tomorrow.<br />
Total spend......err, a fiver. DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-15563930746018005292014-01-03T19:11:00.002+00:002014-01-03T19:11:48.579+00:00Rain And SnowI have a new follower from <a href="http://www.earthwormsandmarmalade.com/" target="_blank">Earthworms and Marmalade</a>. You are very welcome.<br />
Today has been an awful day for many in the UK. Many are dealing with severe weather conditions and some with flooded homes. It must be dreadful for them. Let's hope they can get back to some kind of normality soon. <br />
A little bit of good music isn't much help, but it might make someone smile<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Goeh9WsTyDw&playnext=1&list=AL94UKMTqg-9D1CyrYUNdfyB-WmhWgHNt_" target="_blank">Rain and Snow by The Be Good Tanyas</a><br />
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We haven't had it too bad in the North West - it's cold, miserable and damp, but nothing like elsewhere.<br />
At the risk of sounding a little smug - whilst everyone else is preparing to go back to work, I'm about to start a week off. A whole week; sewing, pottering about; watching day-time TV and other important past times!<br />
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-55020170666606708782014-01-02T17:37:00.000+00:002014-01-02T17:37:30.280+00:00New Toy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What do you mean, 'What is it?'<br />
It's a USB coffee cup warmer. Plugs into the laptop. keeps those endless cups of coffee hot. Useful when sewing, too, as I often have the laptop open at the same time. <br />
Not a Christmas present as I treated myself - I'm easily pleased!<br />
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Had a bit of trouble taking the (rubbish) picture, as this kept getting in the way. He always has to know what's going on. <br />
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-87560180685935576092014-01-01T15:24:00.001+00:002014-01-01T15:24:55.100+00:00Quilter's Diary<br />
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A little while ago I went to visit the <a href="http://www.quiltmuseum.org.uk/" target="_blank">Quilt Museum</a> in York. The exhibition at the time was <a href="http://www.quiltmuseum.org.uk/exhibitions/archives/its-all-in-the-making-patchwork-and-quilting-unpicked-by-british-quilt-study-group.html" target="_blank">'It's All In The Making'.</a> No photography allowed, unfortunately, so I can't share any pics of the quilts, but there are a few on the website.. <br />
As well as being a great exhibition, the museum is also well worth a visit to see the building (well, that statement belongs to the whole of York, really!).<br />
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Whilst there, the lure of the museum shop was too big a temptation. Restraint meant I only came away with a 2014 Quilt diary.<br />
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I've already started using. My intention is to record all sewing / quilting related ideas and activities in here. I'm also going to track the amount of time I spend doing this, in an idea blatantly stolen from <a href="http://quiltsfrommycrayonbox.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/crafting-by-numbers-3rd-quarter-report.html?showComment=1388589445126#c4526515416208868581" target="_blank">Michele from Quilts From My Crayon Box</a>. Hope she doesn't mind!</div>
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The diary has lots of lovely colour photos. I was particularly taken with this one. A small hexie baby quilt in turquoises and reds. Really like this colour way.</div>
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<br />DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-30425362596846386742013-12-31T00:20:00.000+00:002013-12-31T00:20:02.571+00:00Let's Get This Over With<span style="color: #20124d;"> <em>“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words await another voice.” – T.S. Eliot</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">As 2013 reaches its final day, it would be normal to look back on the year and remember the good times and the positives. Unfortunately, they've been in short supply this year. From family bereavements to health issues, unexpected financial pressures and a whole host of minor irritations - it's just not been a good year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">So, lets get this one out of the way and start the next one with a more positive approach. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Happy New Year to you all.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Jane</span></td></tr>
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-1229210202246321712013-12-30T00:06:00.001+00:002013-12-30T00:06:57.682+00:00The BirdsLook away now if you don't like seagulls!<br />
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The weekend before last I went away to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chester" target="_blank">Chester</a>. I was there by way of a favour and therefore most of the cost was picked up by a family member. Favour done, nice hotel, use of pool and spa - win, win all round!<br />
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Anyone who's been to Chester will know that it's the law that you take yourself down to the river <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_Dee_(Wales)" target="_blank">Dee</a> and feed the birds. Now on the river there are a nice collection of swans and ducks. However, these are massively outnumbered by pigeons and gulls. <br />
All the birds are well versed in spotting bird feeders. As potential feeders get out of their cars at the riverside, they can very quickly identify a wrapped sliced loaf. Word goes out and by the time you get down the steps, they're waiting!<br />
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In particular the gulls are very adept at intercepting bread intended for the swans, mid-air. The swans aren't that bothered as they prefer a nice artisan loaf or at least a decent ciabatta.<br />
The gulls and pigeons are more than happy with a bit of white sliced.<br />
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DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-40512091994274293602013-12-29T13:08:00.001+00:002013-12-29T13:08:50.936+00:00Another Year Over (Almost)..........<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm usually glad to see the back of a year, always thinking that next year will be better. The pessimist in me tells me I'm probably going to be wrong. Are you allowed to be miserable on your own blog?<br />
Photo above was taken whilst out walking last Wednesday (aka Christmas Day).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrToXEq9zL8S30zf4xX6Na_E_a2_q9fkbtjINpSt1DYxDPmRYsBgYTfYvd8rAm78vYmuCq71YkPTtm6aUPjk1EpcsaTMilk3xidu-NU5aeMIxuE8fjgJA5p9TJ9hswiHMU7xCQA2nXug4/s1600/xmas+day+2013+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrToXEq9zL8S30zf4xX6Na_E_a2_q9fkbtjINpSt1DYxDPmRYsBgYTfYvd8rAm78vYmuCq71YkPTtm6aUPjk1EpcsaTMilk3xidu-NU5aeMIxuE8fjgJA5p9TJ9hswiHMU7xCQA2nXug4/s320/xmas+day+2013+013.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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My Christmas was extremely low key. It started by popping out to feed two home alone Christmas kitties. Said cats had left me a very nice present on the kitchen worktop (you don't see Santa doing that).</div>
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After unwrapping, I shared the ribbon - it was much enjoyed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfTJvA2Y6Mr9wZ4p4wYUbdj4o-QyuEqvWwnOQuUNgKMBsaPjV2anXFWmNlEcHlRS8unktkBiC9xHgbLIkbh_5bxzd-AY9joqV_Vq1a8jMNQ3_F1FsNCW_VwBKaenv3Ccnzq9OCkBpSkw/s1600/xmas+day+2013+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfTJvA2Y6Mr9wZ4p4wYUbdj4o-QyuEqvWwnOQuUNgKMBsaPjV2anXFWmNlEcHlRS8unktkBiC9xHgbLIkbh_5bxzd-AY9joqV_Vq1a8jMNQ3_F1FsNCW_VwBKaenv3Ccnzq9OCkBpSkw/s320/xmas+day+2013+028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the afternoon I went walking with Himself. Just in case anyone thinks it looks like some kind of modern incarceration camp - it's actually the back of Manchester Airport. The tall building on the left is the old control tower, recently replaced with a <a href="http://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/manweb.nsf/content/ManchesterAirportsnew20millioncontroltoweriscomplete" target="_blank">brand new shiny version.</a><br />
On the right, out of shot and much more picturesque is <a href="http://visitwoods.org.uk/en/visit-woods/pages/wood-details.aspx?wood=26817&site=styal-estate#.UsAW8XZFDIU" target="_blank">Styal Woods.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxlfeVOT1loLRckCg2QtEuNz0wlKZZcXCu2j56cel2jlNjXHXSnrfdq18UaInzguREOsMjKKXYYE7MEhdXiQZ1F7oi3BhOxRmYf5RxY8t2BOPn2AioNMDDvrewErSM4EGV_vNv_PwwYU/s1600/phone+pic+359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxlfeVOT1loLRckCg2QtEuNz0wlKZZcXCu2j56cel2jlNjXHXSnrfdq18UaInzguREOsMjKKXYYE7MEhdXiQZ1F7oi3BhOxRmYf5RxY8t2BOPn2AioNMDDvrewErSM4EGV_vNv_PwwYU/s320/phone+pic+359.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I'm planning that 2014 will involve lots of sitting behind my sewing machine. I was quite taken with this <a href="http://tulapink.com/" target="_blank">Tula Pink quil</a>t on display at this year's<a href="http://www.thefestivalofquilts.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Festival of Quilts</a>. I have the fabric for it - now just need time and motivation.<br />
I've also got a couple of WIP's to get to grips with - both intended as presents. Additionally, a family member and the daughter of a work colleague are expecting, so a couple of baby quilts are in order there. I'm giving myself the deadline of end of January for these, then February for the Tula Pink copy.<br />
DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3754063179577433715.post-76989865962140109662013-09-09T19:30:00.000+01:002013-12-30T00:14:58.355+00:00Speedy?You know those videos on Youtube where clever people make whole quilt tops in minutes using a jelly roll - like this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bEJLnaZQOU" target="_blank">one?</a><br />
Well I was given a jelly roll as a freebie at Festival Of Quilts last month, in lovely autumnal colours. I thought I'd give it a go!<br />
They are usually filmed with a clock behind them and the top is completed in 40-60 minutes.<br />
Me - 3 hours. Doh.DaisyChainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11425930333880829382noreply@blogger.com6