tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64402679145767706102024-03-13T13:11:42.240-07:00Lesley Luvs to StitchTaking Life Stitch by StitchLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-64744506168126681572010-08-06T06:45:00.000-07:002010-08-06T07:14:50.216-07:00Finally Some UpdatesIt sure has been a long time coming. Many times it has crossed my mind that I haven't updated my blog.....but life just has been flying by at what seems a more rapid pace and the chance just passes....I don't think that I have taken a new picture on my camera for quite some time. The camera rides along but just doesn't seem to get used. Don't think that there hasn't been some kodak moments...I just stink at getting them recorded. Anywho, lots going on.....here are just some highlights:<br /><ul><li>Lately, I have been on a treasure hunting collection spree...just can't seem to get enough of going to thrift stores and auctions.</li><li>My sister and I rented booth space at an antique and craft mall. We hope to thin some of our collections and have some of our homemade crafts available. Also working on getting an etsy shop set up, but that is still in the works. </li><li>I have been super busy at work and may be gaining more responsiblities in the future.</li><li>Nate and I are thinking about moving to the country this mean the huge task of cleaning up my little house to get it ready for sale. This is a HUGE work in progress.</li><li>My sister and I are headed to the Antique Roadshow in Des Moines. We are very excited. We both applied for tickets and she got chosen!! It should be super fun!! (Maybe I will actually get some pictures to post??)</li><li>I went to Spring Quilt Market this past May. What an experience!! Very inspiring....</li><li>I entered some of my quilts in the Iowa State Fair for the first time. I hope that good ribbons are in my future!!</li><li>Went to Minnesota fishing for a week with Nate's family. The fishing was good, but the weather was just yucky....perfect for spending a day with Nate going to Quilt Shops, Thrift Stores and the Casino!!</li></ul><p>Well, that is some of the big things that have been going on...</p><p>Until next time, LesleyAnn</p><p> </p>LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-69245377099596546892010-01-21T17:33:00.000-08:002010-01-21T18:06:14.149-08:00Happy 2010!!I can't believe we are well into 2010 already. I can't seem to get the hang of writing 2010 instead of 2009. On some of my checks, I start out writing 09 but quick remember and then stick a 1 in front of the 0 before I get the 9 down. (And yes, I am still old school. I write checks.)<br /><br />Back in November, Nate and I took a trip to Ohio to visit Longaberger. We had a really good time, even Nate did with all the crazy women nuts for Longaberger. But I have to say that the highlight of the trip for Nate was on the way home we stopped at the Indianapolis 500 track. We even made a lap around the track at 30mph in a little bus. Good Times!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kE05WblSI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ieh8x4eJpPI/s1600-h/ohio+vacation+007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kE05WblSI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ieh8x4eJpPI/s320/ohio+vacation+007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429376132566455586" border="0" /></a>Here are a few of shots of me at the Longaberger Factory. Nate would not let me take any photos of him there. He said that way he could deny being there...whatever?!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kHhRE2wdI/AAAAAAAAAM4/eEL8j0dXYqE/s1600-h/ohio+vacation+015.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kHhRE2wdI/AAAAAAAAAM4/eEL8j0dXYqE/s320/ohio+vacation+015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429379093872689618" border="0" /></a><br />Looking ahead to what 2010 holds...it is hard to say but 2009 was still really good.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kE0pbLa6I/AAAAAAAAAMY/I9EaGz9tyls/s1600-h/ohio+vacation+004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/S1kE0pbLa6I/AAAAAAAAAMY/I9EaGz9tyls/s320/ohio+vacation+004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429376128291400610" border="0" /></a><br />Until next time,<br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-89868488124272966632009-11-13T14:07:00.001-08:002009-11-13T14:25:15.891-08:00Swap Goodies<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sv3coKUu61I/AAAAAAAAAMQ/Tip3Db-0fUA/s1600-h/quilt+show+and+goodies+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403717710438656850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sv3coKUu61I/AAAAAAAAAMQ/Tip3Db-0fUA/s320/quilt+show+and+goodies+005.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Here is a picture of the things I sent to my partner for the Stitcher's Angel Swap. Patricia is from Brazil and has a nice <a href="http://www.pattiworks.blogspot.com/">blog</a>. She has sent me a very nice thank you and I am so glad that she likes her goodies!!! About a week after I sent Patricia her goodies. This arrived in my mailbox from my Stitcher's Angel.... </div><div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403714477819565266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sv3Zr_4SFNI/AAAAAAAAAMA/SiAcWLKm9pM/s320/quilt+show+and+goodies+018.jpg" border="0" />It came all the way from Australia!!! I love the little sewing companion in green. It is probably my favorite thing, but then I like all of it!!! Thank you so much again, Marlene. It is wonderful!! And also a big thank you to Helen for hosting this wonderful swap!!</div><br /><div>Just got back from my vacation to Ohio. I have some great pics that I will have to share with you soon!! So, I will leave you with this great picture of my sister and me at the Quilt Show in Des Moines Iowa!!! Until next time, </div><br /><div>LesleyAnn </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403716280181536706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 248px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sv3bU6M3N8I/AAAAAAAAAMI/hwGluJ9hSPY/s320/quilt+show+rand+and+i.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div>LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-115376897852701842009-10-29T12:03:00.000-07:002009-10-29T12:14:06.820-07:00It's My Birthday!!!It's my birthday and I'll cry if I want to......not really. It is my birthday and I am going to be celebrating with a trip to Ohio to see the Longaberger Basket Factory and Football Hall of Fame next week. Nate wants to see....Guess? I will let you be the judge of that one!! At least, we are going somewhere, thank goodness since here in Iowa the weather has been so yucky. Rain Rain and more Rain. It seems to never stop and the farmers are getting nervous if they will be able to get the crops out in time. <br /><br />P.S. I sent my Stitcher's Angel swap gift on Friday of last week. Don't know how long it takes to get to Brazil??? We'll have to see. Post pictures later..... Until next time..<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-5721031014138468632009-10-08T09:12:00.000-07:002009-10-08T09:35:09.333-07:00What Was Missing Has Been Found<div>I guess you could say that I have been missing in action.....The summer was so busy with WORK and MORE WORK. You know the kind.....where the paycheck comes from. Plus the organization that I work for is restructuring due to budget cuts. So the changes have been stressful. But at least I still have a job. That's a good thing. Sewing is my stress relief, but it seems that I just haven't gotten in as much time as I would like. Been working on the Angel Stitcher's Swap gifts and also working on some other things. Hopefully in the next week or so I can find some more time to get the camera out and dust it off and show what I have been up too. </div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390266744866985954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Ss4TC6xl1-I/AAAAAAAAALo/SsKwkQBxgW8/s320/hamburger+delights+001.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I did enter the recipe for the picture above into the French's Foods contest. It is called Burger Delights and it is delish. Find the recipe <a href="http://www.frenchsfoods.com/">here</a>. Type Burger Delights in the contest search engine and VOTE for ME!! (On the main page with contest info click on Learn More and this will get you to the contest search engine!) Thanks!!</div><div>Well until next time,</div><br /><div>LesleyAnn</div>LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-68593822691633051892009-04-06T19:44:00.000-07:002009-04-06T20:16:39.662-07:00Hippity Hop Shop Hops!!Here's a little bag with accessories that I made <a href="http://randisquarters.blogspot.com/">my sister</a> for a military ball she went to 2 weekends ago. I think it turned out really cute and funky!! I love the black and white...hated the pattern though it did some things that I couldn't understand so I modified it a little to fit the way I wanted it. Before we dropped her off at the ball...we went on a little Shop Hop to a few quilt shops. Didn't really find anything that interested me.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sdq_ztulesI/AAAAAAAAAKs/G6XftH3V-Jg/s1600-h/shop+hop+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sdq_ztulesI/AAAAAAAAAKs/G6XftH3V-Jg/s320/shop+hop+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321776804860885698" border="0" /></a>This past weekend, my mom and I went on another Shop Hop. We had a good time even though my mother doesn't sew......Ironically we both won a prize, don't know what it is yet since we haven't been back to the shop. I hope it is something good. Below are the goodies that I got on this hop. Lots more successful than the weekend before. Don't know when I am going to get to all these projects, but that is the joy of being a quilter....adding to the stash.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sdq_zfcpRsI/AAAAAAAAAKk/bQ_GRCNAn_M/s1600-h/shop+hop+003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/Sdq_zfcpRsI/AAAAAAAAAKk/bQ_GRCNAn_M/s320/shop+hop+003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321776801027540674" border="0" /></a>On another note, Nate and I are going on a little vacation to Branson over the Memorial Weekend. I am really excited. We are going to take in some shows and some quilt shops I hope. Nate is looking forward to Bass Pro Shop, whatever. We get to get away from it all for awhile. I think we both need it.....we have both been putting in a lot of hours at work. Thus explaining my absence from blogging. Well, until next time<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-85947031417826109972009-02-10T17:23:00.005-08:002009-02-10T18:03:15.928-08:00Show Some Love Swap Giftie!!Last week a very special package arrived on my doorstop from across the big blue ocean! I was so excited when I opened it and found all the wonderful things my secret swap partner, Julie from Australia made for me!! What wonderful talents she has!! I really don't even want to use the dish towels and clothes because they are so nice and I don't want to get them dirty!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbpsD6LI/AAAAAAAAAKM/hEIJUFIzfI4/s1600-h/swap+gifts+007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbpsD6LI/AAAAAAAAAKM/hEIJUFIzfI4/s320/swap+gifts+007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301347465415616690" border="0" /></a>Here is how my package came and below is a better view of all the nice things she sent me. One package of the Tim Tams is already gone! Nate really liked them and I can't say that I didn't like them either. They are very good. Thank you so much, Julie, you really made my day. Your generosity and kindness were very appreciated!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbAG_w1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/s1XLaZFT7nI/s1600-h/swap+gifts+008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbAG_w1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/s1XLaZFT7nI/s320/swap+gifts+008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301347454254302034" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbsnapXI/AAAAAAAAAKU/pf3lMv4aFok/s1600-h/swap+gifts+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SZIrbsnapXI/AAAAAAAAAKU/pf3lMv4aFok/s320/swap+gifts+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301347466201441650" border="0" /></a>Because I am sure that my giftie should arrive in Australia sometime soon. I will show my gift that I sent across the big blue ocean to my secret swap partner, Tracey!! I hope that this gift arrives to you safely and you are safe from the devastation that has happened in your country recently. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Australia in this saddening time for them. Been working on my BOMs and hope to show you my progress next time. I have also been reading a lot of books lately, most with a quilting theme. If you haven't read anything by Jennifer Chiaverini, do... Her Elm Creek Quilt books are wonderful and I have a hard time putting them done. I also just finished a book called, "They Named Me Marjorie" by Ann Zemke. It was wonderful and it was written in memory of her grandmother of which the story is about her life in Minnesota in the early 1900's. Very interesting and inspiring. Currently I am reading "The Lover's Knot, A Someday Quilt Mystery". So far so good. It is actually a little lighter reading compared to what I have been reading lately. Most of these books you can find at the bookstore or on Amazon. Well, it has been busy around here at the bungalow. Hope to post sooner and more often. Another goal for 2009!! Until next time......<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-37373352004549974892009-01-30T13:28:00.000-08:002009-01-30T13:43:00.271-08:00Busy BusyI have been so busy lately finishing up projects and starting others. I also started a Weight Management Class at Curves. It was really informative and helpful. Now just need to lose some weight. I have also cut down on my soda drinking. I am down to 2 cans of Diet Coke a day. That is huge. I am a popaholic, so I think cutting that down is a good thing even if I don't lose a lot of weight. Also trying to eat better and exercise. So far so good. <br />Sorry about no pictures. I am posting this on a different computer so I don't have any pictures of the projects I have been working on and I have given some projects away already. I really have to get more intimate with my camera. I never have been good at taking pictures. Even as a kid when we would go on a field trip I was always the one who forgot a camera.<br />On another note, my Show Some Love Swap Gift is almost done, just a few more stitches and a buzz around with the sewing machine and it will be done to sail across the big blue....I will post pictures soon, hopefully!! Until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-70406586633605084682009-01-15T13:43:00.000-08:002009-01-15T14:02:29.018-08:00My finger has a Boo-Boo!!Many of you are probably looking at the title of this post and thinking, What is she talking about? But it is true. I made a hole in my finger, putting the binding on a casserole kimono and a table runner. It's my own fault since I don't wear a thimble because it seems akward on. I have tried several different ones but it seems I just can't find one that doesn't make me seem like I am all fingers. I even tried to take a picture to show you but I couldn't get it to look not blurry. So I guess you will just have to take my word for it. <br />So my sewing table still looks like it did when I made my last post...everything waiting to be sewed. So I have been taking a little break, while doing so I happened upon some Free BOM's in blogland. I decided to print them out. So we'll see if I get them done or just collect them. The first is from <a href="http://gailpandesigns.typepad.com/my_weblog/">Gail Pan Designs</a>. She is doing different word blocks. The next is from <a href="http://bunnyhill.blogspot.com/">Bunny Hills Designs</a> called A Tisket, A Tasket...A Year full of Baskets. This one sounds really cool, especially with the basket theme. I love baskets and so does my mom, so I may have to make this one for her. Take a look at the first block it is really cute!! Well, until next time.<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-85360994449801519752009-01-09T10:03:00.000-08:002009-01-09T10:25:27.282-08:00Look What I Got Done....Sitting on the couch for 3 days feeling yucky is not fun, because you are thinking of all the things you should be doing and that are not getting done like housework, laundry, etc. But on the other hand, I got things accomplished that I feel a little guilty about doing when there is so much other things to I should have been doing. Except when you are sick you really don't want to do anything. <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289357962247138594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWeTCt2f7SI/AAAAAAAAAJs/qjniNB2DubE/s320/pics+003.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Exhibit A: I got several project cut out and ready to go....How often does that happen before you really need it done? LOL! For a special person in the Show Some Sewing Love Swap. Here is a sampling of the fabric I am using....Hope you like pink!!</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289357952547717010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWeTCJt-f5I/AAAAAAAAAJk/ID1wm1o90jo/s320/pics+002.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Here is the stitchery I finished for a sample at my LQS. The owner is going to frame it. I love how it turned out with the crayon colored effect. My new fav technique...using crayons to enhance my stitcheries.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289357940256387650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWeTBb7fskI/AAAAAAAAAJc/y9QJwt9HSgE/s320/pics+001.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p>Also I finished reading "Runaway Quilt" by Jennifer Chiaverini. If you haven't read any of her books you should. I just can't get enough of them. Nate's mom gave me some for Christmas and Nate couldn't believe I wanted boring books for Christmas, but I did!! I am so glad that she got them for me! It is exactly what I wanted. Well, enough procrastinating I need to get back to work and tonight I really need to tackle cleaning the BATHROOM!! I am in for another exciting Friday night. Happy Friday to everyone!! Until next time......</p><p>LesleyAnn </p>LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-86585363398193261792009-01-03T17:18:00.000-08:002009-01-03T17:56:23.884-08:00Happy New Year!!I can't believe that 2008 is now over. The holidays were sure busy around the bungalow. Lots of activity. Right now, I have been laying on the couch all day with the flu. Yuck! I just started feeling better so I thought now would be the perfect time to blog about what has been happening.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQLAPZHmI/AAAAAAAAAI8/H5nJaIRNed8/s1600-h/christmas+08+013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQLAPZHmI/AAAAAAAAAI8/H5nJaIRNed8/s320/christmas+08+013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287243743762128482" border="0" /></a>Here is my model, Nate, holding up the wall hanging I completed for my mom for Christmas. It took me about a year to complete. All hand embroidered with crayon colored stars. It was probably the best thing I made this year. The pictures don't quite do it justice. It is gorgeous.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQL-m8tdI/AAAAAAAAAJE/3mo0Nr-kYak/s1600-h/christmas+08+015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQL-m8tdI/AAAAAAAAAJE/3mo0Nr-kYak/s320/christmas+08+015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287243760503928274" border="0" /></a>Here is a close up of some of the blocks. My mom loved it and she already has it hanging in her entryway.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQKufTXqI/AAAAAAAAAI0/uKOFdTHByJ8/s1600-h/christmas+08+012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAQKufTXqI/AAAAAAAAAI0/uKOFdTHByJ8/s320/christmas+08+012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287243738997022370" border="0" /></a>Look what I have been up to....All gifts for friends and family. I even still have a few more to make for some after the holidays parties. There is one purple monkey missing--a gift to Nate's niece. She is 1 1/2 and loved it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://dandelionquilts.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SWAWDQHTlzI/AAAAAAAAAJM/G7MZo_lyYcA/s320/Swap.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287250207653992242" border="0" /></a>I also joined this swap hosted by <a href="http://dandelionquilts.blogspot.com/">Dandelion Quilts</a>. It should be a lot of fun. I have been thinking about what I will make for my partner.... There is still time to join so don't miss out on the opportunity. Well, until next time...<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-81440482928461552522008-12-15T09:38:00.000-08:002008-12-15T10:05:02.653-08:00Why I Haven't Been BloggingOne Word: Christmas. Why is the holiday season so busy? If it was the middle of March I would be wondering...I am so bored, but instead I have been frantically sewing projects, getting Christmas presents for those I have put off way too long, wrapping all the presents, cleaning my house, laundry and making Christmas Candy. I actually got a lot done yesterday, probably not as much as I should have gotten done but enough....I decided this year that I am forgoing putting up the tree. I know, Scrooge, but it takes so much time to put up and then to take it all down. If I were getting visitors it would be different but Nate and I are traveling to the parents and grandparents for Christmas so it will be a lonely Christmas at the Bungalow...no decorations, much to the disapproval of my mother. Oh well, Santa will have to put me on the naughty list...Until next time...<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-68362508279254909692008-11-24T19:32:00.000-08:002008-11-24T20:04:28.836-08:00Polka Dot Swap and Sewing CabinetWell, time sure has flown by these days. I have been busy busy. Working on Christmas presents and some other misc projects. As promised I have a picture of my new sewing machine cabinet. My sis is major jealous and told me that Nate must love me more than her beau does because he won't get her one. I do love it!! Ha! Ha!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt4JzIaU3I/AAAAAAAAAIc/QFSS6CltTQE/s1600-h/pillows+004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt4JzIaU3I/AAAAAAAAAIc/QFSS6CltTQE/s320/pillows+004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272439898506941298" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt1KOG08BI/AAAAAAAAAIE/L2JZokUpmyg/s1600-h/pillows+003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt1KOG08BI/AAAAAAAAAIE/L2JZokUpmyg/s320/pillows+003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272436607213170706" border="0" /></a><br />I finished my Polka Dot Swap goodies and sent them to California. And guess what!? On Friday I received some goodies in return from Esther. Thank you! I love the bag and the fabrics used. So fun and cute. I hope she likes all her wonderful things, because I sure enjoyed mine. Here are some photos of the things I sent and the things I received. I designed the little bag, lots of things going on in my head sometimes.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt1KbWmz-I/AAAAAAAAAIM/wP7Hg7Nn3KU/s1600-h/pillows+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SSt1KbWmz-I/AAAAAAAAAIM/wP7Hg7Nn3KU/s320/pillows+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272436610769014754" border="0" /></a>Had another sister sew in on Friday. Trying to get all my Christmas projects completed. I hope I make it. Planning on going shopping with my sister on the big BLACK FRIDAY! It's going to be an early one. Until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-55616555631481527132008-11-10T18:56:00.000-08:002008-11-10T19:32:03.627-08:00Luck of the DrawI have neglected to report on my Stitcher's Angel partner. She has received her things so now I can let everyone know its <a href="http://www.whatshappeningwithcarol.blogspot.com/">Carol from Sweden</a>!! Dorky me also forgot to take a picture of the goodies that I sent to her in Sweden. I am so glad that you liked them all. If you want to see what I gave to her please visit her blog (link above). <br />Swaps are a funny thing and it really is luck of the draw if you will receive anything. I am kinda bummed. My partner who was suppose to send me something from the Stitcher's Angel Swap didn't. I am not asking for pity, just to let others know that if you can't fulfill your obligations that it is pretty disappointing to the person on the other end. <br />On another note, Nate got a me a wonderful birthday present, A NEW SEWING CABINET!!! He even ordered by himself. It came last week and he finished putting it together this weekend. I LOVE IT!!! Photos to come later... Now I just have to reorganize my sewing room. I have been making my list of all the things I have to get done and my sewing room organization is at the top along with getting my swap goodies done for the Polka Dot and Ric Rack swap due this Saturday so I really have to get going to make the deadline!! I hope my swap partner will enjoy her goodies since she has no blog that I can spy on. It is making it really hard for me to know if I am on the right track. I guess I will just have to wing it. Until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-56327045962682835912008-11-05T18:20:00.000-08:002008-11-05T18:54:25.585-08:00Giveaway Winner!!Well, here I am 30 and I don't feel much different. Thanks for all the great comments. I enjoyed reading all them. Here is Nate drawing the winner.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SRJa3pVCw_I/AAAAAAAAAH8/BtzcooMHlng/s1600-h/drawing+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SRJa3pVCw_I/AAAAAAAAAH8/BtzcooMHlng/s320/drawing+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265370826382951410" border="0" /></a><br />Now to announce the winner.........<a href="http://stichingsewingandmore.blogspot.com/">Sabine</a>!!! You are the winner. If you could email me your address, I will get your goodies into the mail. Enjoy!! It has been a whirlwind around the bungalow lately. This past weekend I went to Minneapolis with our local quilt shop owner to help her pick out fabric for her store. What a fun experience and so interesting!! It was kinda a last minute thing but I sure was glad I was able to go. As a bonus we even had time to visit IKEA!! What fun! Congrats again, Sabine! Until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-82856690944545501822008-10-28T18:20:00.000-07:002008-10-28T19:20:34.026-07:00A Birthday GiveawayWell it is the eve of my 30th milestone birthday. Am I excited? That's hard to say...What are you suppose to feel as you get older? I don't know. I really don't feel like I am old? I asked Nate...Do you feel old now that you are 30? His response; What are you talking about? Why are you asking? You are wierd. Maybe now that I will be 30; I will suddenly become hip and cool? Ya think? Enough rambling.....It's time for a giveaway, my 1st!! Yeah!! Just leave me a comment on this post about what it was like to turn 30 or if you aren't yet 30 let me know if you are anticipating the big 30 or dreading it. Please leave your comment by November 4th and I will have Nate draw a name out of the hat. Here is what I have so far for the giveaway:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SQfE_0ivkKI/AAAAAAAAAG4/Q2s_nK5wheY/s1600-h/giveaway+004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SQfE_0ivkKI/AAAAAAAAAG4/Q2s_nK5wheY/s320/giveaway+004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262391290320883874" border="0" /></a>I have included a beach theme cosmetics bag for those of us wishing for a vacation, a Moda charm pack with guess what? 30 charms! Ha!, a wonder wallet for those of us wishing for more money these days and some cupcake erasers and pencils since I can't send my mom's famous filled cupcakes. You should be jeaous because they are yummy just like Hostess only better!! She has made them for my sister and I only on our birthdays since I was in kindergarten for treats. This made me a very popular child back then!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SQfFAXfbY_I/AAAAAAAAAHA/Crxo6cdOFQI/s1600-h/giveaway+003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SQfFAXfbY_I/AAAAAAAAAHA/Crxo6cdOFQI/s320/giveaway+003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262391299702219762" border="0" /></a>Here is my little sis at our sister sew in from last Saturday night. Notice her pants. I had matching ones that my gram had made for us to wear at our sister sew in nights. Such fun! Well until next time when I will be a little older.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-78846839392819895642008-10-20T17:42:00.000-07:002008-10-20T18:42:21.274-07:00Nate's Birthday and FishingIt sure has been busy around the bungalow these days. I have been stitching like a mad woman trying to get my Stitcher's Angel stuff done before I had to take my sewing machine in for her annual oil change and service. We definitely want to keep her in tip-top shape. Can't show anything yet as I haven't sent it yet. It may cost a small fortune though for it to get across the great blue ocean.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0npYZsNXI/AAAAAAAAAGY/Q8wVOzXUcgg/s1600-h/fishing+and+nate+birthday+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0npYZsNXI/AAAAAAAAAGY/Q8wVOzXUcgg/s320/fishing+and+nate+birthday+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259403531716932978" border="0" /></a>Here is Nate on his 30th birthday with his cake that I got him. Even though he won't admit it he was excited about getting a cake. (Don't tell him I said that because he will probably kill me if he knew I put these pictures on my blog.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0np_cb_CI/AAAAAAAAAGg/KT6-ClfjFoM/s1600-h/fishing+and+nate+birthday+002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0np_cb_CI/AAAAAAAAAGg/KT6-ClfjFoM/s320/fishing+and+nate+birthday+002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259403542197435426" border="0" /></a>I made him take this picture of his presents that he got from me. He really didn't want to, but he did to appease me. Isn't he cute. Deep down I think that he wants to be like my dad and gramps with his overalls..... I think he probably had a good 30th birthday!! Now next week we shall see if he can out do me for my 30th? Yes, I will be turning 30, t00! Been thinking how I can celebrate on my blog...maybe a first giveaway is in order and some goodies. We'll have to see. Stay tuned....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0rFfEG48I/AAAAAAAAAGw/n_zBcOuq4fk/s1600-h/fishing+and+nate+birthday+005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SP0rFfEG48I/AAAAAAAAAGw/n_zBcOuq4fk/s320/fishing+and+nate+birthday+005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259407313076675522" border="0" /></a>I went on my first fishing trip to the Mississippi and caught this nice crappie. I really couldn't believe that I actually caught something but I did. A total of about 4 nice ones. Nate asked me when him and his dad go fishing will I have to go every time now. My response was no. Fishing is kinda a man thing...I get it but...I don't think that I get it enough to make a serious hobby like my sewing. It was fun to spend time with Nate and his dad but I think I will leave most of the fishing to them and I will take the day to sew. <br />The other day in the mail arrived a package from <a href="http://www.cinderberrystitches.com/">Cinderberry Stitches</a> in Australia. I won in her giveaway for a Christmas Gift Bags pattern. I love it. It is so cute. Thank you Natalie!! Can't wait to get started on them! Well, until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-88524245891326165852008-10-07T15:49:00.000-07:002008-10-07T16:37:28.981-07:00Busy Quilting Workshop WeekendThis last Saturday I went with my grandma and sister to a quilting workshop with many quilting sessions where we learned new techniques and we even saw a quilt talk with Kay Capps Cross "The Black and White Lady". I have seen her before but I always enjoy listening to her and gaining inspiration from her quilts. They are gorgeous!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvrel6MUjI/AAAAAAAAAFg/muf1TIY07fw/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvrel6MUjI/AAAAAAAAAFg/muf1TIY07fw/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254552301062607410" border="0" /></a>Here is my sister at the make it take it work session. We made little cell phone cases. It was a lot of fun and I even got a few more to make. It was so simple. The pattern was all on the fusible you attach to the fabric. How easy and quick it that?? Love it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvre_ObKFI/AAAAAAAAAFo/ScrM1yL-bJE/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+020.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvre_ObKFI/AAAAAAAAAFo/ScrM1yL-bJE/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254552307858352210" border="0" /></a>Here are the goodies I got at the workshop. See my cell phone case?<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvuAYn4YPI/AAAAAAAAAGI/AUUX_-AMum8/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+019.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvuAYn4YPI/AAAAAAAAAGI/AUUX_-AMum8/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254555080634949874" border="0" /></a>I almost forgot to show all my goodies that I got on my bus trip. Man, do I have my work cut out for me to get all these projects done....where should I start? Well, I did get one thing as a gift for my sister...the yellow tin with Wizard of Oz charms. When my sister and I were little we use to have to watch the Wizard of Oz everyday since it was her favorite movie. I promise..... I looked inside the tin to make sure the there were no flying monkeys :)!! I know how much you hated them!! LOL!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvrfKE3DcI/AAAAAAAAAF4/embPyxOXP9M/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOvrfKE3DcI/AAAAAAAAAF4/embPyxOXP9M/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254552310771027394" border="0" /></a>And last but not least...here's my Nate. We celebrated his birthday with my parents on Sunday. He is going to be the BIG 30 on the 9th!!! He got a new fishing pole and reel from my sister and her boyfriend. He will just have to wait to get his present from me!!! Until next time.....<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-89689966830251037932008-10-06T18:04:00.000-07:002008-10-06T18:55:32.370-07:00More Bus TripWell, life has sure been busy since my last post. Lots going and lots to show all of you. First I will take you back to the bus trip...So much fun and the most wonderful part about it was that I didn't have to drive to all 5 states. I also got to see so much more than I would have if I would have been on my own; considering Nate would have been along and there is no way he would have lasted going to 9 shops. He's a wonderful man but there are limits and patience is not his virtue.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5bJt3tmI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CUFZzMEhdf8/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5bJt3tmI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CUFZzMEhdf8/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254215791397025378" border="0" /></a>This is a photo of the Calico Hutch in Hayward, Minnesota. It was a really cute shop and probably one of the biggest businesses besides the Coop in town. This shop is really not that far from me, so I can visit this one again!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5bIvb2VI/AAAAAAAAAFA/7zqBB7SzN4M/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5bIvb2VI/AAAAAAAAAFA/7zqBB7SzN4M/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254215791135152466" border="0" /></a>Here is the Country Sampler in Omaha, Nebraska. A beautiful shop with fabrics to die for. I got an apron pattern and some quilt diva fabric with jumbo rick rack. What a stitch!!! Can't wait to make it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5cH5Ax-I/AAAAAAAAAFY/DPul42lQAlo/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq5cH5Ax-I/AAAAAAAAAFY/DPul42lQAlo/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254215808086755298" border="0" /></a>The Calico Hutch fed us this yummy breakfast of skier's french toast with strawberries. Just the right thing to hit the spot on a day of quilt shop hopping......<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq4Loe38lI/AAAAAAAAAEY/U9pNQvEVyjU/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq4Loe38lI/AAAAAAAAAEY/U9pNQvEVyjU/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254214425266090578" border="0" /></a>Quilter's Quarters in Leavensworth, Kansas had some inspiring quilts with fabulous machine quilting. (Wishing I wasn't such a terrible machine quilter!!) Some people get all the talent, while others are just hopeful that a little might rub off on them. I am one of those that wish for the latter....:)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq4Mu19RZI/AAAAAAAAAEw/ftLgX8Q2GjQ/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq4Mu19RZI/AAAAAAAAAEw/ftLgX8Q2GjQ/s320/bus+trip+and+nate+006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254214444153390482" border="0" /></a>The little lady (in the brown shirt) reminded me so much of my grandma.....It was like traveling with her and made me wish for my grandma. My grandma is the one who taught me to sew and embroider. She is a very special lady and I admire her greatly for all that she does. She is an inspiration to me. I hope that I am able to do 1/2 as many things as she does at her age. I love ya, Gram!!! Hopefully I will not be as negligent in posting as I have been. Until next time....<br /><br />LesleyAnn <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SOq4L70U5AI/AAAAAAAAAEg/vLxyvAl6C8g/s1600-h/bus+trip+and+nate+002.JPG"><br /></a>LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-68747753503780379342008-09-26T17:52:00.000-07:002008-09-26T18:21:48.678-07:005 State Quilt Bus TripWell, I am on my quilting bus trip where we are going to visit 9 different quilt shops in 5 different states. We have just completed day 1 and it has been very exciting to see 3 different quilts shops. I am helping my local quilt shop as the hostess of the bus trip which has been a fun experience.The shops have been outrageously beautiful and the staff at each of the shops have been very helpful. Below are some pictures of the shops we visited today. I forgot to take some pictures at the second shop we stopped at....will try to do better but sometimes picture taking is not a strong suit of mine. Also a fun thing is...we get 2 batik fabric strips at each shop plus a free pattern. How fab is that???<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2Hq9r-4lI/AAAAAAAAAD4/8OPQJAqYiRU/s1600-h/day+1+bus+trip+002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2Hq9r-4lI/AAAAAAAAAD4/8OPQJAqYiRU/s320/day+1+bus+trip+002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250501912767160914" border="0" /></a>This is Pine Needles in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It was a beautiful shop that use to be a wildlife center that sold bird seed. It was huge.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2HreKZMmI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/KVirWfQOMzM/s1600-h/day+1+bus+trip+005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2HreKZMmI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/KVirWfQOMzM/s320/day+1+bus+trip+005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250501921484649058" border="0" /></a>This is a picture of The Quilt Shoppe in Stewartsville, MO. Another great shop with lots of variety in fabrics and other quilt related gift shoppe. Great Staff!! If you have a chance to visit any of these quilt shops, stop. They are well worth the visit. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2HrVC6PVI/AAAAAAAAAEI/tM_be0OcD2s/s1600-h/day+1+bus+trip+004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SN2HrVC6PVI/AAAAAAAAAEI/tM_be0OcD2s/s320/day+1+bus+trip+004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250501919037341010" border="0" /></a>Well tomorrow is another day with 3 more shops to visit. Will try to update you and take some pictures of the goodies and treasures I am getting. Until next time......<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-91360949319825658762008-09-21T18:57:00.000-07:002008-09-21T19:54:56.404-07:00Tator Tot Casserole and Glue Gun IncidentWell, the weekend has come and gone without much sewing progress. I had big plans but those were dashed on Friday at 2:30 when I burned my fingers with the glue gun doing a crafty project that I will not show you because it didn't even turn out like I thought it would. Very bad. After I burned two fingers to a crisp I didn't feel like doing much else plus I have never had a burn quite like I got. So I just decided to take a nap. Nate called and wanted me to come stay at the weekend retreat house, (aka his house) so I thought I might as well since I was pretty much feeling worthless. So I spent the weekend there....<br /><br />Today I spent the day with Nate doing a little farming...making hay. I rode the tractor with him. There is nothing like the smell of cut hay. So while we were making hay we talked about what we were going to have for supper. From pigs in a blanket to tator tot casserole. When I first met Nate he told me one of his favorites was tator tot casserole and in my family we never had this so I was unsure of how to make it. So I consulted with friends and the internet for advice because I sure didn't want to disappoint my new boyfriend that I couldn't make one of his favorite meals. So I decided to punt and use a combination of all the advice and internet recipes to come up with my own version. So today, I decided to make tator tot casserole because he has always told me I make the best. But much to my horror, I found out today that his favorite tator tot casserole is......the high school cafeteria! AHHHH! WHAAAT??? Are you kidding? I have to compete with the school...school food is something we all would like to forget not remember as our favorite...I am depressed...My cooking confidence is marred. Although, in my opinion, today was the best tator tot casserole I have ever made!!! :) Until next time....LesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-12065112601901520972008-09-15T15:20:00.000-07:002008-09-15T16:30:04.635-07:004 Glorious DaysWell I am back from 4 glorious days of sewing in DeSoto, Wisconsin. It was great! Lots of laughs, lots of sewing, and lots of inspiration and relaxation was had by all. It is so beautiful along the mighty Mississippi. And the most glorious thing of all...what I accomplished...a lot...which is so uncharacteristic of me at a retreat. But I did. Here are some pictures of where we stayed and what I accomplished.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7klXe-IyI/AAAAAAAAACw/BWkRlFT1aJ0/s1600-h/desoto+004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7klXe-IyI/AAAAAAAAACw/BWkRlFT1aJ0/s320/desoto+004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246381946543416098" border="0" /></a>Here is where we stayed. It is known as the cottage. And it is super nice. There was no roughing it here.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7kmGnnlmI/AAAAAAAAADA/tO0Iu7VgMsc/s1600-h/desoto+008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7kmGnnlmI/AAAAAAAAADA/tO0Iu7VgMsc/s320/desoto+008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246381959196153442" border="0" /></a>This is a view out the window of the cottage. The mighty Mississippi is so close...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7kmeYHEcI/AAAAAAAAADI/a4MyR1VUUno/s1600-h/desoto+012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7kmeYHEcI/AAAAAAAAADI/a4MyR1VUUno/s320/desoto+012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246381965573558722" border="0" /></a>This is the group of ladies I stayed with and the things we accomplished. Can you find me? We actually took this picture from the other house where some other gals stayed since our house only bunked 10 gals and the other house bunked 8. Then with both houses we could have that many more gals. <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7nSp-zBSI/AAAAAAAAADY/WzB6vtjnnP8/s1600-h/desoto+013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7nSp-zBSI/AAAAAAAAADY/WzB6vtjnnP8/s320/desoto+013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246384923626112290" border="0" /></a>This is more of a close up of the things I got done or started on. I am caught up with <a href="http://www.lynetteandersondesigns.typepad.com/">Lynette Anderson's BOM. </a>, finished putting some ric rack on a tea towel, made 3 bags (1 is missing since Nate took it as a raffle for a church dinner), finished the stitching for the <a href="http://hugsnkisses.typepad.com/hugsfromhelen/2008/08/armchair-caddys-take-over-the-world.html">Armchair Caddy</a> from the Stitcher's Angel, and started a Halloween Stitchery. Whew.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7mc9209HI/AAAAAAAAADQ/IUHS8Rp1Zy0/s1600-h/desoto+015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7mc9209HI/AAAAAAAAADQ/IUHS8Rp1Zy0/s320/desoto+015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246384001248457842" border="0" /></a>Some gals and I took a little road trip during the retreat to some quilt shops. This is what I got. You can see the Halloween stitchery pattern. I love it and it is going to be so cute!! From the funky paisley fabric I am going to make my own bag like the ones I finished at the retreat, since I am going on a stitching bus trip to 5 different states and 9 quilt shops in a couple weeks. I think I better have a bag to keep all my treasures together. Hopefully I will have internet access during the trip so I can post my fun finds. I am really looking forward to that trip too.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7nS2cC6pI/AAAAAAAAADg/GdsAEjK_whM/s1600-h/desoto+016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SM7nS2cC6pI/AAAAAAAAADg/GdsAEjK_whM/s320/desoto+016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246384926970014354" border="0" /></a>Then today when I checked the mail I found this in my mailbox.....My prize from winning the contest on <a href="http://www.midohioknitter.blogspot.com/">Mid-Ohio Knitter</a> Thank you Vickie...I love it. You are the best!!! I can't wait to make something out of these yummy charms. Well lots to do and so little time...Until next time..<br /><br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-26760133935797600552008-09-08T17:12:00.001-07:002008-09-08T18:07:14.043-07:00Wishing for more stitching hours in a day!!Well it has been quite awhile since my last post but things have been busy....I have been trying to catch up on some of my numerous stitching projects. One of those being <a href="http://www.lynetteandersondesigns.typepad.com/">Lynette Anderson's Free BOM</a>; it has been so much fun. I have included some pics of how it is coming along. I just have a little left from the block of Noah and the giraffes. Need to still put the border around the elephants and Noah. Then start this last months of the rainbow. Hopefully I will get this done while I am at my quilting retreat in DeSoto, Wisconsin at <a href="http://www.aplacetosew.com/">A Place to Sew</a>. It is a beautiful place and so relaxing. I can't wait.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXJaKeBhMI/AAAAAAAAACo/ZGaHEUG82hw/s1600-h/IMG_0086.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXJaKeBhMI/AAAAAAAAACo/ZGaHEUG82hw/s320/IMG_0086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243818792466875586" border="0" /></a>Here is kind of an overview of all of the blocks together. So cute! I put everything in a binder. I am getting so organized....so uncharacteristic of me....But it helps to keep everything together since you only get one block at a time. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG0kSjzWI/AAAAAAAAACQ/ifo3qRD3DMQ/s1600-h/IMG_0087.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG0kSjzWI/AAAAAAAAACQ/ifo3qRD3DMQ/s320/IMG_0087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243815947539828066" border="0" /></a>Look just alittle left. I used a satin stitch to fill in the spots on the giraffes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG0w9a8WI/AAAAAAAAACY/kck4na0A39c/s1600-h/IMG_0088.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG0w9a8WI/AAAAAAAAACY/kck4na0A39c/s320/IMG_0088.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243815950940828002" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG1FS0ytI/AAAAAAAAACg/uBaks6tJEOA/s1600-h/IMG_0089.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SMXG1FS0ytI/AAAAAAAAACg/uBaks6tJEOA/s320/IMG_0089.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243815956399311570" border="0" /></a>Here are my finished blocks. They are just precious. Thank you so much to Lynette for designing such a great stitchery!! Well I better get cutting out some projects for my retreat that is in just a couple days. Until next time...<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-9512527676337987282008-08-28T10:40:00.000-07:002008-08-28T10:57:18.592-07:00ListsSorry my blogging is so erractic, but that has been the way life is around the bungalow these days. That is why lists are so important to me. I love them. Thank you mommy for being an obsessive list maker, since I have gotten to be one too!!! (Just to let you know how obsessive my mother is...she even alphabetizes her veggies in the cupboard; Oh my!) I am not to that stage yet--although, I make lists for everything: groceries and walmart trips (obvious), things to do, chores, list to Nate of what HE needs to do, things I want to do, things to do at work, books I want to read, sewing projects I want to do; well, you get the idea... everything. Nate thinks I am nuts! I probably am. So I am making lists so that over this holiday weekend I can get things done and even maybe some stitching. The reason: Nate is going fishing to Canada--Yeah!! Time for the girly things to come out---staying up way too late watching chick flicks and stitching, reading a good book, going shopping without needing to get something, my new fav..blogging, and maybe even a little housework that has been neglected. This is a good time for all these things. Don't get me wrong, Nate is a great help and I love him dearly but sometimes a girl has to have time for the girly things without the man around. Plus I have to start getting ready for my sewing retreat to Wisconsin....4 days of glorious sewing and relaxing with the girls....I think I better start making a list of the projects I want to do......Until next time...<br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6440267914576770610.post-30162006074503171842008-08-18T19:45:00.000-07:002008-08-19T15:22:46.537-07:00Saturday Trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SKtGKMy9WcI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Js4xKP3x45U/s1600-h/blog+pics+001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SKtGKMy9WcI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Js4xKP3x45U/s320/blog+pics+001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236356132795931074" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Well the little trip Nate and I took on Saturday was lots of fun and I did get a few goodies at the Quilt Shop. The shop was down an Iowa gravel road basically out in the middle of nowhere. And to my surprise it was filled to the brim with fabrics, patterns, and other fun things. Plus it happened to be a Shop Hop day so bonus for me because there was extra special deals and not just for shop hoppers. Yeah for me!!! Take a look at what I got...So much fun can't wait to start in on the pattern, a little sewing kit for floss, scissors, pins, bobbins, etc.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SKtGKmC7gzI/AAAAAAAAACA/Y7hAEdi1Ti0/s1600-h/blog+pics+002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_phTXSn4s7Yc/SKtGKmC7gzI/AAAAAAAAACA/Y7hAEdi1Ti0/s320/blog+pics+002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236356139573805874" border="0" /></a><br />Also I got this picture back from the framers and it will look good in my sewing room. I love that it is old and shows the basic embroidery stitches. It is always interesting what you can find in a box you buy at an auction. This week is another busy week hopefully I will get some stitching in since mission organization has taken over the last week or so. Well until next time....<br /><br /><br /><br />LesleyAnnLesleyAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12417100992759824770noreply@blogger.com1