MY NEEDLE AND THREAD BY MARY

I think I might have a (little) Problem....

2012-01-30T16:01:00.000-08:00

Look at my sewing room, YIKES!!!! I think I need professional help on how to organize this mess!!! My poor sewing machine looks soooo lonely among all the chaos!! Now that I am looking at these pictures, I look like I am hoarding fabric!!!!! WOW!!! Bins are overflowing with fabric!!! I think this room need an overhaul - what do you think????

(i am sooo embarrassed)

Hugs,

Mary

Look what I found on Etsy!!

2012-01-30T15:39:00.000-08:00

I purchased these through http://www.lisabetzoriginals.com/ by Liza Betz. She makes Mosaic Art and Original Jewelry on Etsy. Aren't they adorable???

They just arrived today...don't quite know where I am going to place them, I think in my kitchen, but maybe my bedroom, will see...
Hope everyone is having a Great Monday,

Hugs, Mary

Hello...

2012-01-26T10:11:00.001-08:00

Oh you have to check out "Sew We Quilt" Blog site...really great ideas and instructions...have fun! Mary

AFTER A FUN DAY IN THE SNOW...

2012-01-20T15:51:00.000-08:00

MY MOST RELAXING POSITION :) LIFE IS GOOD!!

SNOWBOUND AND COOPER

2012-01-20T15:45:00.000-08:00

I think pictures can say a million words.....

Swaps....

2012-01-20T10:34:00.000-08:00

?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? Think I am going to take a Break from Swaps...to all the ladies that made their Quilts and made the Deadlines, THANK YOU SO MUCH :) But, unfortunately life happens and a monkey wrench is thrown in and soon things that are out of your control , go haywire and then before you know it, a Perfect Swap becomes, well not so perfect...so Again, to all the Ladies of my past Swap, Thank you each and everyone of you that made your Quilt, Mailed it to your Swap partner and followed the deadlines. You are the ones that make Swapping so Special and Fun!

Feeling a little frustrated here!!???!! Maybe I should make something Blue as that is how I feel...

Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day,

Hopeful

Mary

Small Quilt Swap 2 and other ramblings...

2012-01-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

Hi fellow bloggers,

Do to not enough sign up for this quilt swap (3) I am thinking of postponing it until maybe mid March...I guess everyone is just pooped out from the Holidays, I know I am.... I hope everyone had a great Holiday Season and now it is back to the ole' grind... but I will keep everyone (3) ladies who were interested - your info I will keep and if I have another one, you will be the first on the list - (not that the list is being inundated with names????!!)

Anyways, so what is everyone up to...? I am basting down pieces of a quilt that I showed back in December to do some hand applique. The weather here has been really great until Today - we are currently being hit with a Blizzard....so let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!! Right?

Lets see - I am in Physical Therapy now for a Herniated Disk - Doc wanted to do surgery, but I opted for PT first - it is getting better so why not??

Oh have any of you seen the Bachlor this Season???? I usually enjoy watching senseless nonsense like this, BUT even I have to back away from this one! I watched the first two nights that it was on and it was DISGUSTING! Really have we stooped so low that young ladies are throwing themselves at men for the attention, money, exposure on tv, what is it all about???? Again, I used to love to laugh and watch these young men and women make fools of themselves, but this season it is rather sickening for me to watch....OK I will get off my soap box now...

Modern Family I love to watch and the show after it is hysterical too (cant think of the name)

Well, Happy Snowy Thursday to all! Oh I almost forgot check out the free Owl Calendar Button on the right side of my blog, THE CUTEST OWLS EVER!!!!

Hugs,

Mary

Christmas Day... Cooper

2011-12-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

Cooper with all his New Toys, Christmas Day, 2011

Isn't he just the cutest!!??!

December 22, 2011

2011-12-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

IT'S CRAZY TIME AROUND HERE, MENU PLANNING, SHOPPING, MORE SHOPPING, WRAPPING....BUT I REALLY WANTED TO WISH ALL OF YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR IN CASE I DON'T GET A CHANGE TOO!!
A LOT OF MERRY, MERRY HUGS TO ALL OF YOU,

MARY

My Daughter, Kate...

2011-12-15T14:48:00.000-08:00

If any of you are avid book readers, check out my oldest daughter, Kate's blog:

http://glitzglamgatsby.blogspot.com/
she reads ALOT and has some great book reviews,

Enjoy,

Mary

Update on Small Quilt Swap 2

2011-12-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

Anyone interested in SQS2??? I know this is a very hectic time for everyone, but if you are interested, please leave a comment....Jennifer you are first on the list....Thanks, Mary

Food for thought...

2011-12-09T08:31:00.000-08:00

I HAVE HAD THE GOOD FORTUNE TO WITNESS THE POWER OF MANY A WAGGING TAIL...

A DOG'S TAIL CAN CLEAR THE CONTENTS OF A COFFEE TABLE IN ONE SWIPE AND A CAT'S TAIL CAN TELL YOU HOW HE OR SHE IS FEELING. THEY BOTH CAN ALSO MAKE A TRULY AWFUL DAY VANISH BEFORE YOUR EYES. THAT IS THE GIFT OUR COMPANION ANIMALS PROVIDE - MOMENTS OF PURE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND HAPPINESS!

ENJOY AND LOVE YOUR FAITHFUL FRIEND....

This is so Beautiful!

2011-12-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Small Quilt should have arrived today...

2011-12-05T15:19:00.000-08:00

The small quilt I made should have arrived today for my swap partner, so I thought I would show you the finished product...

Pretty Cute, huh??? I added the Bird because she loves Sue Spargo so I thought she would like that. I also bound it with brown fabric to kind of frame it.

Happy Monday Everyone!

Hugs,

Mary

SMALL QUILT SWAP 2

2011-12-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

OK I admit it, I have been bitten by the Small Quilt Swap bug!!! This was sooooo much fun and the small quilts that were made were all soooo Beautiful, honestly, soooooo with that said, I am going to open up the New Year with JANUARY 1ST - 15TH to join our SMALL QUILT SWAP 2!!!!

Now for the fun part....so I was thinking of a "THEME"...Winter! For a Winter Theme, we have lots of Holidays you could incorporate into your small quilt,for instance, we have Valentine's Day, St.Patrick's Day, Sweetest Day then you could add Hearts, Shamrocks to your small quilt either through Applique (by machine or hand) or by fabrics you use, or if you like Snowmen, Flying Geese, Snow, Trees, Vintage Sleds, Angels (not Christmassy though) more homespun, you would add a snowman or a Tree to your quilt (through applique by machine or hand)!

SMALL QUILT SWAP 2

What do you think??? A WINTER THEMED SMALL QUILT! The deadline would be January 15th and due by March 1st, that way it is still cold and snowy in most places and we could all hunker down and sew together!! Oh I think I am on to something here!!! It would certainly life our spirits during those long, long months! Anyone interested???

Hugs,

Mary

Small Quilt Swap 1

2011-12-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Update on Lurline....one of our swap ladies all the way from Australia. She has been in a car accident and was in the hospital for 4 days and then when she came home her computer crashed, so that is why I couldn't reach her...But with all that has happened to her, her small quilt is almost done and she is hand quilting it as we speak - God Bless Her - so please say a little prayer for her that all is well and that life calms down for her, and that her health recovers quickly!

So once that quilt gets mailed out, All is Good!!

Happy Sunday Everyone and a Big Thankyou to Jennifer who volunteered to be our quilt "Angel" if Lurline needed one!! Thank you Jennifer you are a sweetie!!!

Quilting Hugs to all of you,

Mary :)

SQS1

2011-12-03T07:45:00.000-08:00

Hi fellow Swappers:

Here is a list of the Swappers and their blogs. It looks like I haven't heard from one lady....

Jennifer - http://www.zospecial.wordpress.com/ FINISHED AND SENT
Megan - http://www.willworkforfabric.typepad.com/ FINISHED AND SENT
Crystal - email zman101@dis.net FINISHED AND SENT
Angela -http://www. moderndiary.blogspot.com FINISHED AND SENT
Karen -http://www.karen-logcabinquilter.blogspot.com FINISHED AND SENT
Diane - sewmaniacquilter.blogspot.com FINISHED AND SENT
Mary -http:// myneedlethread.blogspot.com FINISHED AND SENT
Lurline - http://lurlineg.blogspot.com/ - ???? HAVE NOT HEARD FROM YOU????

So, Lurline I have tried to contact you by email and your blog, but no response....please let me know if you are working on your small quilt, if it will be delayed....I know it is coming from Australia, but I need to know when you sent it. Otherwise, I have to make an "Angel Quilt" for your swap partner, as she mailed hers out and you received it, so please contact me.

Also, would anyone be willing to be an "Angel" in case I need one???? I know this is a hectic time of the year, but I have to get a small quilt out ASAP, if Lurline is having any issues.

Again, Lurline please, please contact me....I know you have had also internet and health issues, but I haven't heard from you, so please contact me.

OK, I think I covered it all....if any one of you have any questions, please contact me: coolmommary@fastmail.fm (my son set this email up for me about 10 years ago, so please don't think I think I am cool), just don't want the hassle to change it.....(just some info in case you were wondering where I thought this name up)

Otherwise, I loved doing this swap and if anyone is interested in January or February for another one, please let me know....

Love and Hugs to all my Quilting Swappers,

Mary

My Small Quilt Arrived Today!!!

2011-12-02T15:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Ladies,

My small quilt came today from Megan: http://www.willworkforfabric.typepad.com/. Isn't it BEAUTIFUL!!!! I JUST LOVE, LOVE IT!! And, she added a Sue Spargo pattern as a little surprise. Megan you know how much I love Sue Spargo!!!! Thank you soooo very much! Now I can't decide should I hang this little Beauty or place over a small table in my foyer (entryway)???? Decisions, Decisions....Thank you again Megan, I love to read your blog and I love the work you do! Oh and did I say I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this little Beauty!!

Many Hugs to all my quilting buddies,

and Many quilting Hugs to you Megan!

Mary

SQS1

2011-12-01T04:52:00.000-08:00

Hellow Swappers:

Please communicate with me regarding your Small Quilt and when it was mailed out to your partner! Today is the deadline and I what post names and the dates everyone's quilts went out so that I know everyone is covered! Please, Please communicate with ME!! If you already have done so, just ignore this, most of you have except a few! Thanks Mary Today is DECEMBER 1ST :)

Another Reminder...

2011-11-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard from your swap partner, please contact me....coolmommary@fastmail.fm. Otherwise I assume everything is going fine!

Thank you,

Mary

SQS1

2011-11-29T18:57:00.000-08:00

REMINDER:

December 1st mailing deadline for SQS1!!!! Please email me once you have mailed your quilt to your swap partner. For everyone that has already, Thank you!!

The small quilts that I have seen are exceptionally Beautiful. All you ladies have done a really Great Job! I am thinking maybe in January around the 15th to do another one...they are really fun to do and you ladies have done such a Great Job, what do you think? It could be a winter themed...thinking darker colors, and was thinking picking a specific object like a Snowman or Evergreen Tree that would have to be incorporated into your small quilt...just bouncing around ideas....any ideas???

Hugs,

Mary

New pictures of Cooper at the Lake on Thanksgiving...

2011-11-28T14:59:00.000-08:00

New Updated Picture of SQS! "Twist Quilt"

2011-11-27T09:23:00.000-08:00

Hi hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!! Here is the completed top of the "Twist Quilt"! I love the Green border and the Binding, really, really adorable! Very Great Job Done! OK I want ALL of these Quilts, I have to admit!

Isn't it Adorable I really really love the green and then the red binding she used!!!!

Happy Sunday Everyone!

Love,

Mary

SQS1

2011-11-23T05:11:00.000-08:00

Just a friendly reminder, once you have received your small quilt, please drop me a note telling me.....Jennifer received her and she loves it (it was the small Pink Quilt that I posted yesterday), so our small quilts are finding their way to their New Owners. And she is trilled with it!
So Please let me know when your precious cargo arrives, Thanks and Hugs, Mary

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!!

SQS1

2011-11-22T15:47:00.000-08:00

Another Lady emailed me a picture of her Beauty....She also made a mug rug for her swapper!! Love the polka dots and ofcourse I LOVE PINK!!! Sooo Pretty!! And the Stripes!! Love It!!

Hope all you Quilt Swappers have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday,

Hugs,

Mary

Remember those scraps....

2011-11-22T12:55:00.000-08:00

Remember those scraps, well this is what I am making...I changed the paisley fabric to the browns because it just didn't look right to me...so this is what I ended up...now I have to baste and make three more of these blocks for a table topper!

Hope you are all having a productive day!

Hugs,

Mary

Here's another one!! SQS1

2011-11-21T04:56:00.000-08:00

Just received a pic from one of my swap ladies that this quilt started out as squares and then took a turn for a Twist!!!! Wait to see this one....The solid ones really "Pop" don't you think!! Really Beautiful fabrics too!

GREAT JOB all of you ladies are doing!!! Oh I am soooo excited about this Swap! Such creativity!!! Loving This!!!

Hugs,

Mary

SQS1

2011-11-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

OH MY GOSH, I just was sent a picture of another small quilt done...are you ready...isn't it just Beautiful! Oh I love the colors and the applique, really Beautiful, Beautiful Job!!!! Wow!!! I just know the swapper that gets this one is just going to love it!

These small quilts we have been making are all sooo different and all soooooo Beautiful! Job Well Done Ladies!!!!

Now I only need to hear from 4 more ladies and get their pics and I will be one happy Swap Mamma!!!!

Hugs to All this Sunday Night,

Mary

Sneak Peak at a New Project

2011-11-20T14:01:00.000-08:00

Yes I am starting one of many "new projects"...

here are some pics:

more to come....

Hugs,

Mary

Food for Thought - Happy Sunday

2011-11-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

...A young boy was walking home from Sunday School when he cut through a park to get home quicker. On his way through the park he remembered a Chocolate Bar his Mom had placed inside the pocket of his jacket. On removing his candy bar, be began breaking off a piece when he noticed an elderly lady sitting all alone on a park bench...At first, he thought the lady looked lonely, so as he got closer to her, he thought "maybe she would like a piece of my candy bar", so he stopped in front of her and smiled and offered her a piece of candy. The lady accepted with a Smile....He then decided to sit next to the lady and together they shared his candy bar...never speaking a word, just smiling at one another. When the young boy was done, he Smiled at her and she gave him her best Smile back. As he entered his house, his Mom greeted him and asked, "Why do you have a Big Smile on you?" The young boy replied, "I just shared my candy bar with Jesus"!

...The Elderly Lady went home and when she entered her home, her Sister asked her Why do you have a Big Smile on your face...the Lady replied "I just received a candy bar from Jesus! She then told her sister, I thought Jesus would have been much older, but he wasn't he was a Young Boy!

Moral of the Story, we find Jesus in the poor, the lonely, the elderly, the sick, the imprisoned and yes, Children!

I truly believe this with my whole Heart! We don't find him in material things or status, we only find him in helping others...think about it...that is where Jesus is...if you are looking....

Hugs,

Mary

Cooper got a new Bed!

2011-11-18T16:38:00.000-08:00

This came in the mail today for Cooper....a New Bed from a company named "Frontgate". For any of you that own dogs, this is one Great Bed. Cooper has had two knee surgeries and this bed is orthopedic. He loves it...Yeah!!

Oh and I think I got the "comment" thingy working now..don't know why it stopped??? But hopefully it is working again, Thank you Pat and Karen for emailing me to tell me....

Hugs,

Mary

PLEASE LEAVE COMMENTS

2011-11-18T06:23:00.001-08:00

BLOGGERS IF YOU READ MY POSTS PLEASE I JUST LOVE COMMENTS! PLEASE LEAVE THEM...I READ SOME BLOGS AND I AM TOTALLY IMPRESSED WHEN I SEE 36 COMMENTS...I AM LIKE WOW PEOPLE MUST REALLY LIKE THIS BLOG...WHENEVER I VISIT A BLOG I ALWAYS LEAVE A COMMENT....I AM FEELING A LITTLE BIT UNLOVED.....HUGS TO ALL, MARY

THANK GOD IT IS FRIDAY :)

2011-11-18T06:22:00.000-08:00

TODAY I AM THANKFUL FOR ....

THAT GOD HAS A PLAN FOR ME, SOMETIMES I THINK I KNOW WHAT IT IS, OTHER TIMES I HAVE NO IDEA, BUT I TRUST THAT HE KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING, SO JUST GOING FOR THE RIDE AND TRUSTING !

MY 88 YR OLD MOM...OH I COULD WRITE A BOOK ABOUT MY MOM! SHE INSPIRES ME, TRULY, WITH SO MANY HEALTH ISSUES, SHE JUST KEEPS ON GOING...SHE STILL DRIVES ONLY IN THE A.M., STILL READS HER BOOKS EVEN THOUGH SHE HAS MACULAR DEGENERATION IN BOTH EYES, USING AT NIGHT IN BED A FLASHLIGHT TO SEE THE WORDS (WE HAVE BOUGHT HER THE KINDLE AND ALLTHE GADGETS,, BUT SHE REFUSES TO USE THEM AND MAKES US TAKE THEM BACK - BECAUSE WE SPENT TO MUCH MONEY)...SHE HAS BURIED EVERYONE SHE EVER KNEW, SHE IS THE LAST BUT NEVER DOUBTS HER FAITH OR GOD...SHE HAS LIVED THROUGH THE DEPRESSION AND SURVIVED, BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY MY MOM AND MY DAD (WHO DIED IN 04) TAUGHT EACH OF US UNCONDITIONAL LOVE! i TOLD YOU SHE INSPIRES ME....I AM SOOOOOO THANKFUL FOR HER!!! OH AND IT WAS WATCHING HER THAT I LEARNED TO SEW!!!!

32 YEARS AGO, I MARRIED A REALLY GOOD GUY, DAVE, MY HUBBY AND I AM THANKFUL THAT GOD PLACED HIM IN MY LIFE....YES HE IS OBSESSED WITH THE CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS AND I MEAN OBSESSED - GOES TO EVERY GAME IN CHGO, WATCHES EVERY GAME WHEN THEY ARE OUT OF TOWN, AND DURING THE YEAR WE GO TO SOME OUT OF STATE GAMES - LIKE ROADIES!! SOMETIMES I CAN TAKE IT OTHER TIMES I CAN'T, BUT IF THAT IS THE WORST THING...WHY AM I COMPLAINING. HE IS THE BEST FATHER TO OUR 3 YOUNG ADULTS...HAVE NICKNAMED HIM THE "DISNEY DAD" BECAUSE TRULY HE CAN NOT SAY NO TO ANY ONE OF THE THEM...YES THEY COME TO THE GAMES TOO EVEN THE OUT OF STATE ONES, I TOLD YOU HE IS OBSESSED! BUT I LOVE HIM AND WOULD DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN....:)

OK HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE! HOPING TO GET SOME SEWING DONE OVER THE WEEKEND AND HOPE i HAVEN'T GIVEN ANY ONE A HEADACHE WITH THIS PURPLE BACKGROUND....OH I JUST LOVE TO AMUSE MYSELF...

HUGS,

MARY

Thursday....What I Am Thankful for Today!

2011-11-17T08:53:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow Bloggers,

What I am Thankful for today...

This should have been the first one....really Thankful For a phone call from my youngest away at college, Emily...called just to talk, spent an hour on the phone while getting ready for work...I am blessed because what 18 yr old calls their Mom just to talk, Thank you God for Emily, Kate and Mike!! :) my three special blessings...

1. Sheep - now I know you think I have really lost it but on my way to work today I passed a small farm that had sheep grazing in the field and I thought "Oh how cool"!!! I live in the suburbs south of Chicago, so we have little pumpkin farms and stables that you can go horseback riding, so to see Sheep was really something I thought!

2. Moisturizing Cream for your legs

3. A Warm Car - cold here this morning in the 30's

4. Warm Kiss from my Cooper

5. Smiles - I went into Panera again today, like I do everyday to get my British Breakfast Hot Tea, and I purposely smiled at everyone I came in contact with, today some smiled back some just looked at me, but it made me feel good smiling :)

6. Clothing - A warm sweatshirt I am wearing today, I am thankful for that, some people are less fortunate.
So then I started thinking about all of the people that don't have warm clothes for the winter...

7. Radio in car - was jammin to Taylor Swift and Kelly Clarkson!!

8. Sun, Sun, Sun love the Sun, let there be light!! That is my motto - don't care that it is cold...just please God make the Sun come out and it did!!

9. Anyone reading my blog and commenting - Thank You :)

Hugs,

Mary

SQS1

2011-11-16T14:36:00.001-08:00

SMALL QUILT SWAP 1 MAILING DEADLINE: DECEMBER 1, 2011

PLEASE EMAIL ME ONCE YOU HAVE MAILED YOUR QUILT!
coolmommary@fastmail.fm

Things I am Thankful for...

2011-11-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

I was reading Megan's blog yesterday...Will Work For Fabric and she is listing everyday things she is Thankful for and I thought what a Great Idea...so today I am starting my little list or big list...

Driving into work today I was thinking "I am so Thankful for...

1. The Sunshine...doesn't matter if it is hot or cold outside but I really need the Sun!

2. My Pilates Instructor, Brenda, who is the most positive person in the world and always gives us a Great workout....

3. British Breakfast Tea from Panera Bread and Toffee Nut Cookies....

4. Cooper my dog

5. Family

6. A car to drive from place to place

7. A Smile...I have found that whereever you go if you smile at people, they return the smile...total strangers smiling - it's wonderful!!

8. A Warm Home

9. My Health - Hands that can sew or wipe away a tear...

Ok now I am getting sappy, but I was thinking of all of these things as I drove...it was nice, made me Smile, Again....

Lots of Hugs to All of You,

Mary

Starting a new project....

2011-11-14T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone or whomever is reading my blog today....

Pilates in the a.m., then ran errands then started on a new project... Cut out background fabric and realized I didn't have enough..oh I hate that, but found new fabrics that I liked better...so made bias strips and traced pattern pieces..this one will be hand pieced. I like hand piecing it relaxes me so am trying to get this together for the next week to work on. Lately, I hate watching TV without something to stitch in my lap so that is what I am up to...

What are all of you working on??

I also want to update my blog I feel like mine is too clutered, but don't want to pay money to have someone design one, so will be working on that too.

Well, that's it for a Monday, will post pics when I get pieces basted down.

Hugs,

Mary

Oh he makes me laugh!!

2011-11-13T14:43:00.000-08:00

So I was doing the Laundry and along comes my "helper" Cooper....well, he isn't really a helper he is more of a "give that back to me" kind of a helper...but he is my faithful companion....and he does make me Laugh... so this is what Cooper was up to this afternoon....in the third picture, well, he is just really showing off and as you can see, for some wierd reason, Cooper loves Mop Heads!!! Silly Dog!!!

Another picture!

2011-11-13T12:48:00.000-08:00

SQS1 Swap

A Little Peak....

2011-11-13T12:46:00.000-08:00

This is what I have been working on this afternoon - now I have started to quilt it! It started out as a flower, then I thought it need the little bird...then some borders...

Now for the quilting, that will be done tonight!

Happy Sunday Quilting....

Mary

Happy, Happy Sunday

2011-11-13T09:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday everyone! Mid 60's today although the wind is like 40 miles an hour right now :(!!

So...what am I going to do today, light cleaning of house and then SEW!!!!!!!!!!

More to see later on today.... Oh the anticipation......(ok I am humoring myself here, I don't really believe anyone is reading this and anxiously awaiting what I am going to do...but it is nice to dream!!)

So will be back later.....

Have a Safe and Happy Sunday - fooling around with colors here!!!

Bye for now,

Mary

SQS1

2011-11-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

JUST A FRIENDLY REMINDER:

ALL SMALL QUILTS MUST BE POSTMARKED DECEMBER 1ST FOR MAILING TO YOUR SWAP PARTNER....

Also, don't forget to add a tag to the back of your small quilt so the recipient knows who it is coming from and a little note if you want - describing why you choose a particular design, color, etc. It just makes it more personal,

OK - so remember DECEMBER 1ST!!!

Also if I haven't heard from you could you please drop me a note: coolmommary@fastmail.fm letting me know your progress. Thank you! Already 2 quilts have been sent! Yeah!

They are turning out really pretty too!!!

Quilting Hugs to All,

Mary

AR-BE GARAGE DOORS, INC. - WE ARE IN A COMMERCIAL!!

2011-11-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

My Husband's Company AR-BE GARAGE DOORS, INC., located in OakLawn, IL. is on the Chicago Blackhawks.com home page and our commercial is going to be aired in 1-2 weeks Pre and Post Blackhawk Games, Comcast and other Media Venues!! We are a Corporate Sponsor for the Chicago Blackhawks, to see video click on Link:

That's my car and I am driving and those are my neighbor's 4 little boys who all play Hockey, so adorable!!!! NHL VideoCenter Click the following to access the sent link:

AR-BE Garage Doors w/ Crawford, Bolland

This video can also be accessed using this link: http://video.blackhawks.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=813&id=134341

We are soooo excited about this!

Hugs, Mary

Another Swapper just sent me pics....SQS1

2011-11-09T11:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Ladies,

Another Quilt Swapper just emailed me hers is ready to go too....Oh my these are turning out just Beautiful! I am not revealing what lucky lady is getting this one, but here are the pics:

I love the fabric and the colors....look at the teacup fabric, LOVE IT!!!!

Great Job Ladies.....Quilting Hugs to all,

Mary

1st Quilt done and sent....SQS1!!!!

2011-11-08T17:54:00.000-08:00

Hi!! I am sooo excited just heard from one of our SQS1 swappers and she has finished and this little Beauty is on it's way to it's lucky new owner....

Isn't it just Beautiful!! Oh I love the colors!!

Great Job Done! Hugs, Mary

and one Sue Spargo table runner...

2011-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

Just sewed the panels together, changed one thing, where the rick rack is added, I added a different fabric because I like it better...that's it for today!!

Hugs, Mary

You could say I am on a roll....

2011-11-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this little stitchery I started about 4 years ago....just added borders to it - I just love, love Snowmen...so wanted to get this little one out of the way,

Hugs,

Mary

IT'S AMAZING WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH SOME STRIPS...

2011-11-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

SQS1....it amazes me what one can do with a stash of strips....

what do you think???

More sewing this afternoon... Happy Friday everyone,

Hugs,

Mary

POSITIVE THINKING WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS...

2011-11-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

OK thinking positive thoughts when all else fails...can you tell I am on too much medicine!!!! Going back to bed now...Mary

Happy November....

2011-11-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Am home today been bitten by the Sick Bug!!! Yuck!!!! :( Can't seem to stop coughing...I feel like a walking Germ! Wow,I think I will go to bed, I am even depressing Myself!!!

Cough, Cough, Ouch ...mary

SQS1 AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

2011-10-31T14:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

Have been working on my SQS1 and wanted to do something a little creative, or at least to me creative, soooo, I sewed strips together to make the top of flower, but then thought I could cut these into 5" squares and then cut them into triangles to frame flower....it is still in the planning process, but thought I would show you want I have been up to...

Hope everyone has a nice and safe Halloween,

Lots of Hugs,

Mary

COOPER

2011-10-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

OK so I felt a little guilty about dressing up Cooper, ALTHOUGH, at Christmas he does fashion Reindeer Ears and Jingle Bells around his neck, but maybe I was pushing it with the Bumblebee custome.....so stopped at my local Pet Store and bought him Another New Toy...Here are some pics and now he is my buddy again, YEAH!!

I just love this dog!!!

Happy Fall,

Mary

COOPER IS A BUMBLEBEE FOR HALLOWEEN!!!!

2011-10-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

Okay I am supposed to be helping hubby at work today, but between answering the phone and paying bills, a girl has to have some fun.... So I dressed Cooper up for Halloween!! Yes, Cooper is a Bumblebee...only he didn't really like it, check out these pics! Now he won't come near me, I wonder why???? Isn't he just the cutest, just had to share!! Happy Weekend everyone!

Lots of Hugs,

Mary

SQS1

2011-10-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

Oh my, now I have three ladies that would be willing to swap with the lady that wants to join, don't you just love Quilters...I have contacted her when I thought no one was interested, so now I just contacted her again....hope she is still interested - as I hate to turn anyone away. Thank you all for being so generous,

Many, Many Hugs,

Mary

I will let the ladies that have posted know as soon as I hear from her. Rules for the swap are in older posts, October 8th!

no takers????

2011-10-26T09:05:00.001-07:00

Well, since I haven't heard from anyone I will tell the extra lady that we don't have anyone to pair her up with....is anyone reading my blog????

SQS1

2011-10-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have one lady that really really wants to play in the swap, any takers???? Just contact me,

Hugs,

Mary

FALL, CUPCAKES & BAKING...

2011-10-20T16:24:00.000-07:00

DO YOU WANT TO HEAR MY DAY TODAY???

WELL, IT STARTED OFF HELPING MY HUBBY AT WORK, PAYING BILLS, THE USUAL WORK STUFF AND THEN I GOT HOME A LITTLE EARLY SO I DECIDED TO BAKE "PUMPKIN CUPCAKES W/CREME CHEESE FILLING"...I BOUGHT THIS MAGAZINE ABOUT A MONTH AGO CALLED "FALL BAKING" AND THEY HAD THE MOST DELICIOUS RECIPES AND THEY LOOKED REALLY EASY TO MAKE TOO...SOOOO LAST WEEK I BOUGHT ALL THE INGREDIENTS AND TODAY I WAS FEELING "FALLISH"....THE WIND WAS WHIPPING AND THERE WAS A CHILL IN THE AIR, SO I THOUGHT I WOULD JUST WHIP THESE BABIES UP....

DID I TELL YOU YET, THAT I AM NOT A GOOD BAKER? WELL, I AM NOT, BUT I TRY! MY SPECIALTY ARE THE TOLL HOUSE COOKIES - YOU REALLY CAN'T MESS THOSE UP, SO ANYWAY BACK TO MY CUPCAKES...SO THERE I AM MIXING EVERYTHING TOGETHER, PREHEATED THE OVEN, POURED THEM INTO THE CUTEST HALLOWEEN CUPCAKE HOLDERS AND....

PLACED THEM INTO THE OVEN...EVERYTHING SO FAR SO GOOD! NOT!!!! THE OVEN STARTED ON FIRE BECAUSE I FILLED THEM UP TO HIGH IN THE CUPCAKE HOLDERS, SO NOW I AM PUTTING OUT A FIRE IN MY OVEN AND MY SO CALLED EASY PUMPKIN CUPCAKES WERE TOTALLY DESTROYED.

BUT IT WASN'T THE OVEN THAT DESTROYED THEM, IT WAS ME - THEY TURNED OUT TOTALLY GROSS! I MEAN REALLY UGLY, KIND OF DEMENTED AND LOOKED LIKE SOMETHING YOU WOULD FIND IN THE BATHROOM,

SO I JUST HAD TO TAKE A PIC OF THEM FOR ALL OF YOU TO SEE:

DID I MENTION I RUINED BOTH PANS (WHICH WERE NEW), YEP!

SO TOMORROW WHAT DO YOU THINK, SHOULD I TRY PUMPKIN BREAD?!?!?!? OR MAYBE JUST A TRIP TO THE LOCAL BAKERY - I THINK THAT WOULD BE MUCH SAFER FOR ME AND MY FAMILY!

HOPE YOU GOT A GOOD LAUGH, LOTS OF HUGS,

MARY

SQS1

2011-10-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

HI EVERYONE, I HAVE ONE LADY THAT JUST EMAILED ME THAT IS INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR SQS1 .... ANY TAKERS???? JUST THOUGHT I WOULD ASK ,

HUGS,

MARY

SQS1

2011-10-20T06:06:00.001-07:00

I am having a problem reaching one of our ladies...Crystal if you read this please send me a valid email address, I don't want to leave your swap partner's info on your blog. Thanks, Mary
coolmommary@fastmail.fm

SQS1

2011-10-18T17:54:00.000-07:00

The flower is evolving....

Hugs,

Mary

SQS1

2011-10-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Update....now I need to add the leaves....and then add borders...haven't thought that far yet...more to come,

Hugs,

Mary

Oh I went fabric shopping!!

2011-10-17T13:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Yes, I stop in to my favorite little quilt store and bought these goodies...I could not resist....with the weather changing I just love the "chedder colors" and bright reds....also I LOVE Sue Spargo patterns...so have put her on my list of must do's!

Hope everyone is having a great Monday,

Hugs,

Mary

SQS1

2011-10-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Just working on my SQS1 and am hand appliquing top of.....oh what will this be????? No pattern...just one of my makeup as I go along...so much fun!!

Happy quilting,

Mary

SQS1

2011-10-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am soooo excited: Heard from everyone - Yeah and we even have one from across the Pond - AUSTRIALIA!!

Now we are up to 8 ladies

Remember check out each other's blogs to see what they like (if they have a blog) if they don't email them and ask them - also blog about what you are making and why you choose one particular way or style and anything that makes your piece unique for your partner. Also, when completed include a note to say who you are and any other info you want to share.

I love swaps as they connect all of us on this big bouncing ball we live on....our art is ourselves and sharing is so important!!

Have Fun, don't freak out, you are putting a part of yourself out there for someone else and that is BEAUTIFUL!!!!

As for me, I have already begun my small quilt...I am not using a pattern I kind of made one up and turned out really cute, so am building on that...will post small pics when I have enough done....Good Luck everyone and as always just email me if you need Anything...email: coolmommary@fastmail.fm.

Thank you in advance for participating in this 1st Small Quilt Swap, if you ladies want maybe after christmas we can do #2???

Lots of Quilting Hugs,

Mary :) :) :) :) :)

REVISED....NEW LIST FOR SQS1

2011-10-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

REVISED LIST FOR SQS1:

These ladies have given me all their info so if you haven't emailed me your address, blog, or email info I am going with what I have...

Crystal
Megan
Jennifer
Angela
Karen
Mary

Thanks,

Mary

LQS1

2011-10-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

-Hellow Fellow Swappers:

Okay,

The following ladies are in:

Lurline
Diane
Karen ??
Jennifer
Megan
Crystal
Mary (me)
so it looks like we could use one more lady - anyone out there???

Also, please confirm on here on my blog that you are in so I don't forget or missed anyone...sooo excited....

OCTOBER 6TH CUT OFF DAY TO SIGN UP!! JUST A REMINDER!!

Thanks,

Hugs,

Mary

WELCOME TO SMALL QUILT SWAP 1

2011-09-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Ladies,

Ok...here the guidelines,

1. Everyone interested mst have an e-mail address or Blog, so that your partner and I can reach you...
2. The size of our Small Quilt should be around 22" by 22" (please no smaller than 22")...
3. When you email me, please give me your name, address including zip codes AND if you have a blog your blog name and email address.   Through email I will contact you.
4. In your email please express what kind of Quilt you want MADE for you. That way I can match up the right person with the right quilt -   I will answer all emails and try to fit the right pair of ladies together....
5. Once I have all the information I will email your partner's name, address and quilt preference.
6. DEADLINE TO SIGN UP IS OCTOBER 6TH.
7. DEADLINE TO MAIL OUT WHAT YOU MADE SHOULD BE BY DECEMBER 1, 2011.
and if you do not wish to Swap overseas, please tell me in your email info.
Once you receive your Quilt, please post a picture. If you do not have a blog, just forward me the picture and I will post the picture on my blog.
Any questions you can contact me at my email: coolmommary@fastmail.fm.
So far, we have about 6 ladies...and finally, these Little Quilts can be machine or hand pieced and machine or hand quilted. And remember, "Quality" of your homemade Quilt...I think we all understand to swap your work, is very personal to each Quilter and we all strive to do our Best.

Have fun!!!! I am sooooo excited to get this started!

Lots of Quilting Hugs,

Mary

LITTLE QUILT SWAP 1

2011-09-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hello Quilting Bloggers,

Would anyone be interested in participating in a Small Quilt Swap??? Size approx 22 x22 inches? You could make a traditional, contemporary, anything you like, Small Quilt??? I would be the host and I thought since it is September 17th, we could have three months to make it - so December 17th they would be due to swap??

What do you think and would anyone be interested??? I will organize it but first wanted to see if anyone would be interested - it would be called SQS1 (small quilt swap 1)??? what do you think...

Hugs,

Mary

South Carolina

2011-09-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

Hello...does anyone know of any Quilt Stores located near Isle of Palm, South Carolina....we are spending a week there next week. Thank you soooo much! Also,I am thinking of starting a small quilt swap - what would everyone or anyone think of participating in one???

Hugs,

Mary

Just saying...

2011-09-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

Smiles refresh progress...I laugh to feel encouraged...Art is Energy!

WHERE OH WHERE HAS THIS SUMMER GONE...

2011-09-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Where has this summer gone...seriously, I want it back!!! September already and today it feels like fall in Chicago! Hope everyone had a great Labor Day Weekend!

Was just wondering does any of you quilters know of any quilt swaps that I could join....???

Just wondering....

About three - maybe four years ago I had a really terrible experience in one - seriously - they sent my quilt back to me - wasn't what the lady wanted and they didn't like my machine quilting...so I received it back - quite humiliating, so was just wondering if any of you have had good luck with any swaps? I still have it that quilt sitting on my kitchen table and I just love it - but, whatever...any info would be appreciated.

Thanks and Hugs,

Mary
my email is coolmommary@fastmail.fm if you want to talk privately. Thanks!

2011-08-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

Daughter, Kate's New Blog's address is:

http://glitzglamgatsby.blogspot.com/

That is the official site, please visit,

Thanks,

Mary

NEW BLOG FOR EVERYONE!!

2011-08-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

My Daughter, Kate, has just launched a New Blog called "Glitz, Glam & Gatsby" Please check out and comment, she is feeling very lonely....really cute blog, enjoy, Mary

Cooper...

2011-08-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

AUGUST FLOWERS....

2011-08-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

"ANGIE'S QUILT"

2011-08-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

For some reason I can't get these pictures to move correctly...

Hi Fellow Bloggers and Hope Everyone is having a GREAT Summer!!!

Well, the day finally has come...."Angie's Quilt" is finished and given to Angie the day before she left for SLU in Missouri!!! She is in her third year of studying to be a Nurse.... So here is ANGIE with her Quilt...

I hand pieced and hand quilted this as it was just a nightmare to try on my machine. I think in all it has taken me two (2) yes, two years to complete for Angie but as you can tell by her smiling face, she loved it!!!! My son, Mike is behind her holding up the Quilt!

Here are some more up close pics of "Angie's Quilt" and look at those corners - mitered, YES!! I always have problems with corners on the bindings of Quilts but this time it worked, so proud, so proud....couldn't decide which block I liked the most so just picked a couple for you to see oh and the backing - really liked the purple!!!

Well, hope all is well with everyone, enjoy these last few days of August!

Hugs,

Mary

MY GARDEN..WELCOME TO MY LITTLE CORNER OF MY BACKYARD!!

2011-06-21T17:00:00.001-07:00

2011-06-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

Hate rainy days and Mondays...always get me down! Sounds like a song doesn't it!

COOPER

2011-06-20T09:27:00.001-07:00

Rainy, Rainy Monday here in IL...Cooper was feeling a little down...

Did you ever feel like this....just laying around not caring what you looked like...

Yeah, just being a Dog...then he realized i had my camera out and Bam....out of the crate and posing!! What a sweetie he is,

HOPE YOU ALL ARE HAVING A MUCH DRIER MONDAY THAN WE ARE!

Hugs to All,

Mary

JUNE 16, 2011

2011-06-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

HI!!

STILL WORKING ON "ANGIE'S QUILT" WILL POST ON PROGRESS....ALMOST, ALMOST DONE....

MARY :)

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

2011-05-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all my fellow bloggers and to those who read my Blog...Hope you all have a Wonderful and Beautiful Day,

Lots of Hugs today,

Mary

New Design...

2011-04-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Remember those strips I sewed together, well.... this is what I made - no pattern! Have thought about what to make and decided to make flowers - this one is a Tulip... What do you think? Kind of funky colors...but it's cute right??

Hope everyone is enjoying their Spring?!?!?

Hugs, Mary

Rebecca and Joe's Baby Shower!!

2011-03-20T08:41:00.001-07:00

Congrats Rebeca and Joe!! May 15th they are due to have a BOY!! This will be my sister Margie's 8th Grandchild!!!

Happenings in IL.

2011-03-19T08:46:00.001-07:00

Angie and Mike on Spring Break....getting ready to go to the Hawks Game..Picked oldest up at work, so here are Angie Kate and Emily...

Then more pics of what is happening in my life...working, working, working..oh and at the Game here is the Blackhawk Car you can win...wouldn't that be a nice birthday gift for hubby, he is turning 55 this year!!!! Wish I could afford it!!! I swear you would think one of these blackhawks is my son, I take sooo many Hockey pics!

Sorry pics are all out of order, computer not cooperating this morning...

More on the fabric I posted last week...

Have a Great Weekend everyone and Happy St. Patty's Day, Hugs, Mary

what is this????

2011-03-02T06:48:00.001-08:00

More to come.....

HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY, LOIS!!

2011-02-28T17:41:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR SISTER, LOIS!!!

Kate & Mike & Chris & Judy, Snowboarding adventure!!!

2011-02-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

Kate and Mike Snowboarding at Chestnut Mtn, Sunday Feb 6, 2011! I prayed them all the way up there and all the way home!!! So proud no one got hurt!!

SNOWBOUND...FEB 1, 2011

2011-02-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Fellow Bloggers, it has been awhile...busy working BUT today everything "stopped" in Chgo...our first 19" of SNOW...Emily off of school, Mike off of Work and Dave closed down Business, soooo everyone was HOME!! YEAH!!! But, my friend, "Cooper" just LOVED it! Here are some pics of Cooper having fun in the snow....oh he met up with one of his little friends in the neighborhood while out...running around crazy, even thought he could "burrow" through....got tired decided to lay down, oh back up, Emily is coming out to try and make a snowman, well, it turned into a hill...so put our Blackhawk Gnome on top and Cooper decided to see if it was edible....more fun...

Hope everyone is safe and warm out there, nothing is moving in our little suburb so of Chicago,

Hugs,

Mary

everytime she got one level up on the snowman, Cooper knocked it down, so we went with the "hill Gnome" theme

I'ts beginning to look alot like Christmas...

2010-12-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow Bloggers,

Have been busy Christmasing around here....have been decorating almost every room in my house it seems. Now that I am working down at my husband's business, when I get some free time which is rare...I try to squeeze in some time to decorate for Christmas. Here is what I have done lately....what do your decorations look like??? I think I have gone a little over board with the "snowman" theme, but I LOVE SNOWMEN!!! I don't know what it is, but just love their overstuffed bodies and quirky smiles!

I am also finishing up "Angie's Quilt" in hopes it will be done for Christmas for her!

Hope all is well with all of you,

Lots of Hugs,

Mary

Cooper has some new toys!!

2010-12-05T09:28:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Some new pics of Cooper!! Been busy working, little sewing getting done over here, how are all of you??

Pillowcase for Emily

2010-11-15T15:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Bloggers,

For a long time Emily, my youngest picked out this fabric and wanted me to make pillowcases, soooo today since I did not have to work for hubby (yeah!!) I "finally" got to make one pillowcase - it really turned out cute. Now I am going to make smaller ones too that match. But this is what I produced this afternoon.... I especially like the ruffle - couldn't find a pattern, so I kinda winged it! How do you think it turned out??

Hugs,

Mary

Happy Monday

2010-11-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

TGIF!! Have been working with hubby and am soooo glad it is Friday!

Hope everyone has a great weekend, maybe I can get some sewing in...

Hugs,

Mary

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

2010-10-31T14:44:00.001-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!!!!!

AR-BE GARAGE DOORS, INC.

2010-10-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

HUBBY, DAVE HAS A NEW ADDRESS AND IS SOLE OWNER OF AR-BE GARAGE DOORS, INC. His father, Robert Burns, opened this business in 1947, when he retired back in the 70-80's, he gave the business to his three sons, now DAVE is sole-owner of his father's business that he started in 1947!! Happy and proud day for Dave! Congratulations to the hardest working man I know, Dave!!! Finally he has his own office and is his OWN Boss!! He has worked for so many years being shoved in a corner, or wherever they could make room for him, well, now with the help of sooooo many workers, he is on his own with a beautiful new office, new desk and a place to call his own! Yeah Dave!!

GRACE & ALLAN'S WEDDING

2010-10-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

A very good friend of Kate's got married last night. Kate was one of the bridesmaids...here are some pics

Emily went to Homecoming!!!

2010-10-16T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yep, this is the Baby!! Homecoming MAA 2010!!

ITS FRIDAY, FRIDAY, FRIDAY

2010-10-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

Hi fellow bloggers, TGIF!!!! What a week!!?!?!?!?!?!? REALLY, what a Month!

Hubby's business is moving - we are finally breaking away from his brother - shocking, but it is a good move for hubby! What does that mean for me, well, I will be working again...this time I will be a part of the business. I don't know if that is a good thing or a bad thing, but it is what it is.

I really hate when people say "it is what it is", what does that really mean????

Tonight is youngest' homecoming dance - so will have lots more pics tonight.

Middle child is coming home from college to celebrate 2 yr anniversary with his girlfriend, Angie - she is a SLU, so she is coming home too.

Sat night we have tickets to the Hawk (Hockey) game and Sunday we get our picture (family) taken with the Stanley Cup, WOWOW aren't you excited!!! Can you tell how much I am!?!?

The Hawks don't look to good so far this year, so we shall see, sooooo

am leaving in a little while to get youngest - Emily updo done for dance!

So total Mom duty this weekend, YEAH!!!

Cooper went for a car ride today!! Slap me I am just way too excited!

Hugs,

Mary

OH THE LIFE OF A DOG....

2010-10-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is me Cooper with Mom's Mop Head!!! Didn't think she saw me, uh oh...now she is going to keep taking pics of me... enough already!!

Oh I might as well pose! You think that would make her happy, but "nooooooo" she keeps snapping away with that thing...she wins , "look i'm stopping"... really I AM STOPPING!!!

Oh Look Mom, Kate and Chris are leaving, take a pretty picture of her already...

Good, now I can go back, oh wait! She is at it again!!

Mom I love you but I think you need a LIFE!

Love,

Cooper

2010-10-09T12:49:00.001-07:00

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT IS 87 DEGREES TODAY IN CHICAGOLAND?!?!?!??!?!?!?

LOVING IT! HUGS, MARY

FALL DAYS....

2010-10-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

GOD'S BEAUTIFUL COLORS...

God paints a Beautiful picture for all of us to see...

We only need to open our eyes and to perceive....

The beauty of his artistic touch

To nature's final show...