A new winner, SAL progress report and a gift from down under!

Congratulations, Sandie ~call me crazy!

You are the new winner of the pattern-fabric follower appreciation gift.

I learned that next time I need to have people leave at least a comment so I know they are actually reading my blog on a consistent basis and are interested in winning.

And apologies are in order.  Linda from Stray Stitches has finished her SAL quilt and I neglected to report on it.  I know she will forgive me with all the last week has thrown my way.

I like her choice of setting.

It truly shows off the intricate and precise piecing in each block.

Hats off for a fabulous finish, Linda!

Carolyn has decided to use a cheery, cheddar background for her first two blocks.

I can hardly wait to see this one when finished.  My idol, Sally Collins, is a proponent of using color in your 'background' fabric instead of a typical 'white on white' or 'beige on beige' background fabric.  Sally states, "...using one of the chosen colors in the background area help(s) to integrate the design and background."  I think Carolyn's version will demonstrate this quite nicely.  Add blue and this triadic color combo will have a very pleasing effect. (Can you tell I just taught a color wheel seminar!)

Finally, a perfect gift! A mysterious package arrived today from Australia. What could it be? My DD was as curious as I was.  First was a fall themed card with a lovely verse entitled 'Fall Thoughts.'

A chill is in the air, the days becoming short.

A time to settle down and give my quilting scraps a sort.

The reds, rusts and golds remind me of Fall,

These crisp autumn days are the best time of all

For planning, arranging and finally sewing,

Contentedly watching each quilt block growing.

I press them, inspect them and put them in order,

Measure and plan and add a pieced border.

Pinning and basting, happily knowing

I'll be ready for quilting when it starts snowing.

Elaine Brackett

'Quilt' magazine

Fall 1984

And then...

...this is what the box contained--an enchanting pincushion, taking its rightful place alongside my now rather extensive collection of pincushions. Merilyn participated in the Small Quilt Talk maple leaf block exchange and this was the 'thank you' gift she sent my way for being a hostess. Heck, if it means that I will receive gifts like this, sign me up again!

I especially like her sense of humor.

My husband can relate to this one!

Not much creativity will happen around here for the next week. Maybe a mug rug or two. Maybe even an applique shape or two.

Guests arrive on Saturday to begin celebrating Thanksgiving.

I know I cannot resist blogging again before turkey day, but just in case,

I hope everyone has a happy, tryptophan loaded, Thanksgiving celebration.