Triangle Potholder Tutorial

My wonderful friend Bonnie made a year of potholders as her gift in our mini quilt group exchange. We ALL wanted them. My other wonderful friend Lue Anne wanted to figure them out to make for Christmas gifts but we aren't getting together again until after the holidays. SO I figured it out this morning. Lue Anne this one is for you.

Supplies:
8 inch square of Insul Bright
1/4 yard of fabric, Real 1/4 yard NOT fat quarter
Thread
Cutting mat
Ruler
Rotary cutter
Sewing machine
Iron and ironing board


1. Cut 8 inch square of Insul Bright


2. Trim 1/4 yard of fabric to 8 inch width.

3. Cut the fabric into five 8 inch squares, set one aside.



4. Press four of the squares in half to form right angle triangles.

5. Start to layer triangles, you will need to overlap the top corner of each triangle.

6. Pin edges of triangles together and baste edges, this is to prevent shifting when sewing all layers together.

7. Bottom layer will be Insul Bright, middle layer is backing square (the one you set aside) and top layer is the triangles you basted together. Pin well and sew at a 1/4 inch around all 4 sides.

8. Flip through the center of the triangles. Poke out corners and press.

You are now ready to make me cookies and use your new potholder.

72 Hour Kit Update 3

Ok I was in Vegas this week and still managed to add a lot of stuff!

First while cleaning Delaney's room I found 2 LIKE NEW Jansport backpacks. She used each of them for less than 3 months. I am going to wash them and put them to use. Now just need 2 more. Also I found an out of the way place to store them. I have room in the closet with my furnace. I am going to hang a few Command Hooks and they will be out of the way.

What I added this week:
1 Collapsible Cup and Bowl, now I have 4
4 Ponchos
4 Paracord bracelets
4 Starkist Tuna Lunch kits
4 packages of candy, Red Vines, Sour Patch Kids, Reese's Pieces and Starburst

Ok now while you may say CANDY!?!?! I am now trying to survive Zombies or an Invasion of any sort. I am trying to survive 72 hours of disaster. Earthquake, Power Outage, Car broke down in the middle of now where.

Next week I will post pictures of what we got going on here.

72 Hour Kit Update 2

Ok this was a slow week. I have only been into town to shop once and that was only to Target and JoAnn's. BUT I am determined to add stuff EACH week!

So I added a few things this week:
4 pairs of scissors, yes I got a pair for the girls bags too
16 Slim Jims
4 Bumble Bee Tuna and Cracker packs

I also added $5 to each of our packs. It is recommended to have cash on hand in small bills. MY goal is to have $100 per a pack.

I am trying to make all our packs the same. That way it will not matter which bag we grab on the run. Which also means we will all carry bandages for Daphne. I would rather us each have our own stuff incase we get split up or someone we run into needs help.
 

WIP Wednesday

Okay I decided I am going to start posting WIP Wednesday. For those who don't know WIP stands for Work In Progress. I am hoping to track my "Progress" on a cross stitch kit I purchased last Sunday, June 2nd.

So first I will give you the background on my project. My mom and I took the girls to the timeshare in Windsor for the weekend. On Saturday we were going to the Children's Museum of Sonoma County ground breaking event. So Friday night I realized I forgot a few things and ran to WalMart. Where I find a cross stitch kit on clearance for $3. So I buy it. I go back to the timeshare where it takes me more than 3 hours to sort the thread. CRAZY!!! This is it.

So then Saturday I ran to the Santo Rosa JoAnn's to buy something to store all the thread I sorted on and I see a kit for a hat cross stitch. While I didn't want to hang it anywhere I really wanted to make it. So I left and didn't buy it. Don't you like it too?

So Sunday we are getting ready to leave and I can't take it, we have to go to JoAnn's so I can buy it. With coupon in hand I pay $6 for it. The upside is for $9 I leave with 2 cross stitch kits that I want to make and not put in my house. Yeah that make since in my world.

Now to the point of all this. I am hoping to post each Wednesday how much I get done each week until I am done. So here is the first week.

 

72 Hour Kit Update

This past week I was super motivated to work on getting stuff for 72 Hour Kits for all of us. I started by grabbing stuff I knew we had around the house. I really like the idea of adding something each week but DANG! taking a year to do this No Thanks!

So here is what I have so far:
1 Backpack
16 12 Hour Glow Sticks
4 Emergency Blankets
4 Single Severing Size Peanuts
4 Packages of Baby Wipes
4 5-In-1 Survival Tool (Whistle, Compass, Lanyard, Fire Starter Flint, Water Resistant Match Container) I don't know how a Lanyard counts toward survival but it was included.
3 Collapsible Silicone Bowl and Mugs (they only had 3 I need 1 more)
2 12 Packs of Instant Washcloths (again that is all they had)

I also started everyone an envelope of cash. It was recommended that everyone has at least $100 in small bills. This I really will build up over time. I hope to have more in everyone's envelopes.

This week I am hoping to add 1 backpack and some food. I am getting stuff ready for the baby sale and all of us going on different vacations. So I wont have much time to work on it.

 

Next Project

I have always known I needed to have a 72 Hour Kit for each member of my family "JUST INCASE". I have just never got around to really needing one so I have never put them together. In light of recent events around the United States I have been giving more thought to making them. Never mind my friend Chris for lecturing me for not having them done yet.

So with Tornados sweeping the Mid West and Earthquakes just to the north of me I have set a goal. This summer I will be making 72 Hour Kits for me and my family. I am planning on using backpacks, one for each of us. You never know when you may have to walk and not drive plus we may need to carry extra water. For that reason I don't like the idea of a storage tote, 5 gallon bucket or garbage can. Also I have had friends suggest that I through them in my car when traveling you never know when disaster will strike and you aren't home to grab your kit.

I have found a Build Your Own 72 Hour Kit Check List. I will using this as a guideline for building my kits. I am planning on getting a few things each week so I can get them done this summer and not a year from now.

I would love for you to join me in this project! Plus I would love to hear what you have placed in your kit that may not be on the list. And any great deals you may have found. If you don't want to built your own kit I would suggest buying one and adding to it stuff you may need. Many companies sell them. Google 72 Hour Kits and pages of stuff will pop up.

I have found a spot in my house to store them. Now to start buying supplies.

Hitting The Road Again!

I am walking in the 3 Day again! This year I am headed to San Diego to walk 60 miles to help find a cure.

I am doing my first fundraiser of the year. I am holding a raffle for this bracelet. Which I love, I got 2 one for me and one for you! All you have to do is buy some tickets for your chance to win.

Tickets:
1 for $1
6 for $5
13 for $10

You can either make a donation on my 3 Day page or see me in person.

I truly could not walk in this event if it wasn't for he support of all my friends and family! For that a big THANK YOU!

Thankful Thursday- Boob Job!

Yep you read that right I am THANKFUL for my BOOB JOB!

So last night I realized that I told you all I had cosmetic surgery last year but that was it. So here we go!

At the beginning of December 2011 I finally decided to call a few doctors for consults for implants. December 9th I went to a doctor in Auburn for a consult and decided on the spot he was doing my surgery. I walked out and scheduled surgery for the 20th. Now they have never done consult to surgery in 11 days. AND NO this wasn't an impulse decision.

I came home and called a girlfriend and asked if she could take my girls for a few days so I could have surgery and she said of course! Then I had to call my parents. I was dreading it. Talked to my mom first, she was okay with it. I expected some yelling, NONE. Then my dad, he said "I figured you would". My dad was my driver and the one helping me after surgery.

My aunt and a good friend were TOTALLY against it! Now they both are glad I am happy and after seeing my before and after photos have changed their opinions.

So why did I do it? and what was done? and how much did I get? You know the questions everyone wants to know but some are too polite to ask.

First of all I have wanted a Boob Job since I was in my early 20's, more than 15 years. My bust measurement didn't equal my hip measurement, HUGE difference. At the time I hadn't worn a swimsuit in more than 10 years, I love the water. I had been wearing a padded bra EVERYDAY of my life for more than 12 years. I couldn't wear ANYTHING strapless. It had a huge impact on my life.

I ended up getting Medium Profile Silicon implants under the muscel and a lift. What this means in English is the implant is slightly rounded and placed between my pectoral muscle and my rib cage. Yes that hurt. BUT worth it! This does help make it a more natural look.

I did get 425cc of silicon. YEP it sounds like a lot because it is. No I don't have HHH size boobs. I had a good reason to go that big. I started between an A and  SMALL B cup size. I was NOT okay with that. I now at a D to Small DD. I am so HAPPY.

I tell EVERYONE that if you truly want Cosmetic Surgery DO IT!!! It will not make someone love you more. It will not make you Rich and Famous. IF you want it for you it could be the best thing you ever do.  

Tips and Tricks for Retreats

It is the time of year for many Quilting/Sewing Retreats. I thought I would share a few tips and tricks for getting the most out of your time and money at a Retreat.

1. Plan on arriving close to the check in time. Most are scheduled for the afternoon. Plan on leaving home with time to shop and eat lunch on the way to the Retreat. Don't plan on arriving early. Your host may need that time to finish setting everything up for you. Housekeeping may need that time to finish getting everything ready from the previous departing Retreat.

2. In most cases a Retreat isn't a fashion show. Pack light! You don't need a ton of clothes. Do you really plan on spending time styling your hair? Leave the blow drier, hot rollers and flat iron at home. Pack a hat if you think anyone is going to care what your hair is going to look like.

3. Bring a FEW snacks and your FAVORITE drink. I am NOT saying bring a ton of groceries. You never know when a meal is something you just don't like. If you are a Pepsi snob bring enough to get you through the Retreat. There is a possibility the venue only serves Coke and it could be a long Retreat if you don't have your Pepsi.

4. Make sure your sewing tools are in good working order. Has your sewing machine been serviced recently? Have you changed your rotary blade? Don't bring that brand new sewing machine you bought this week. You aren't familiar with it. You will spend a lot of time learning your new machine and not working on your projects.

5. Make sure you bring enough sewing tools and everything is labeled with your name. Bring extra needles for your machine, it is suggested that you change your needle after 8 hours of sewing or after finishing a large project. Extra rotary blades. Pack a sewing tool kit. You need oil for your machine, pins, scissors, seam ripper, rulers, empty bobbin cases, ect. Bring an extension cord. Check with your host if you need to bring your cutting mat or iron. I don't automatically pack mine. A mat takes up a lot of room if you have to leave it in your car it could get warped.

***I had another thought. If you have a habit to use Spray Starch or Steam when pressing you should bring your own starch or a spray bottle of water. If you aren't using your own iron I would NOT take the chance of using the steam setting you never know what gunk could be in the iron. Also in my Travel Sewing supplies I keep Iron Cleaner and a clean cloth. You never know when you might need it.

6. Don't bring 110 projects! Think about how many projects you can finish in the length of the Retreat and then add 1 or 2 more projects. I say add 1 or 2 projects because you may finish faster than you thought you would. Or you could run into a problem on one of your projects that you can't finish till you get home. Also pack one handwork project. You never now when you may want a break from you sewing machine.

7. Prepare your projects so they are ready to sew once you arrive. Read you sewing directions. Cut everything out and label what you cut out. Pre-whined 2 or 3 bobbins. Make sure you have enough thread for the project, especially if you are using a specialty thread. Put EVERYTHING into one kit, bag/box. This way your only have to take out 1 project at a time and it is organized. Bring the extra fabric you never know when you might need it. OR someone at the Retreat could give it a new home.

*** This IS NOT necessary***
Take something small for your hostess or other Retreat attendees. If your guild is having a Quilt Show coming up bring information for each attendee. If you have a favorite tool that would make a great host gift. Or you could make something small for each attendee, you may want to include the directions if you can.

They Picked ME!!!!

 

I got the e-mail saying I was picked to be a sample maker for Penguin & Fish's new book!

I will be making these! They are so cute! I can't wait for my package to be delivered with my supplies to get started on them. I got the e-mail directions yesterday. I can't decide which one to start on. Right now the Jelly Fish and the Hedgehog are my FAVORITES!!!!

I am excited I got picked. I had to answer questions, give my sewing and handwork background and send pictures of my work finished and in progress. They had a ton of people apply so I am honored that I was one of the selected few to make samples.

I Miss Bloggng!

For some time now I have been missing blogging. I keep thinking I need to blog. BUT I haven't made time for it. So may goal for March is to blog 1 time a week.

Today I found a company that was looking for some sample makers for their embroidery. I sent them this picture, along with a few others. This is one of the blocks from Hocuspocusville by Crabapple Hill. I started it at the beginning of the 2012 Cheer Season. I am hoping to have it done by the end of sign up for the 2013 season, which is in March. Cross your fingers that I get picked to be a sample maker!

 

 

Delaney's 7th birthday is Friday. Can you believe it??? I am shocked she is already 7th. We are having a Lego Birthday party at Gram and Papa's house on Saturday. Which means I am in over achiever mom mode. I can't wait for her party! I will be posting photos next week of the party.

 





 

New Year's Goals

As we get closer to the end of the year I am starting to think of making my goals for next year. Not feeling very motivated to do much of anything.

1. Drop 20 lbs, maybe I will fit back into my skinny jeans.
2. Finish 6 UFO's, I think they are breeding.
3. Food Storage, Can and Freeze veggies this summer.

Looks like I need to think of a few more things.

Anyone have any goals/resolutions set for this coming year?

 

57!!!!

YEP 57! That is how many days left till Christmas! Can you believe it?!?!

So I have contacted a photographer for the photos, waiting his reply. I have pre washed all the fabric for both of the outfits I am planning on making bothe the girls. Yeah I am making them each 2 Christmas outfits. I know CRAZY!!! I have a vague idea of everything I need and want to do in my head, not really the best place for it.

So this week my plan is:
1. Daphne's Pillowcase Dress
2. Find a a shoe box for our Operation Christmas Child
3. Find 5 things in the house for the box
4. Make Pillowcase Dress for the box
5. Sew binding to front of the Chain of Hearts quilt
6. Make desserts for Friday
7. Pack my bags for the weekend
8. Make the list of What Needs Done For Chistmas.

Ok I think that is enough since I am leaving Friday afternoon for the weekend.

 

Happy Birthday Daphne Olivia!

She is 3 years old today!!! This is her modeling her new birthday dress. She has already invited Gram to birthday lunch at McDonald's today. Tonight we will go to Gram and Papa's for dessert and presents. Saturday after football we are having her birthday party in the backyard.

Running Behind

I am not sure how it happens but dang Daphne's birthday is in a few days and I have nothing ready. Can you believe she is going to be 3 on October 1st????

I know we are having a party at home on the 6th after a day of football. Beyond that I got nothing. Which means next week I will be on a CRAZY MAD DASH to organize an amazing party for my 3 year old. We have Minnie and Mickey Mouse theme in mind. Mostly because I have a lot of red, white and black on hand.

Watch out because this weekend I will be making a FABU Birthday Outfit!

Remember when we were all waiting for this?

 

Happy National Sewing Month!!!

Yep today kicks off the start of National Sewing Month. So of course I have a list of what I want to get done this month. Some quilting, handwork and clothes. What can I say I'm diverse.

Today I finished binding a ZigZag quilt that I will be teaching in Riverbank at the end of the month at A Quilter's Place. I did mine a little different from the pattern. Just to show some options.

I have been on the fence about joining in the Grandmother's Choice Block A Week. I think it would be tons of fun and there will be a lot of Women's History to learn along with it. BUT it is 49 blocks and then to put it together. Maybe if I start now I would have the top done in time for the Centennial in 2020.

Now I am putting boarders on Playful Posies. I took the class 2 weeks ago plus I greatly enlarged it and of course not according to the pattern. I had my own idea. I am hoping to start quilting it this month. I had a ton of fun in the class with Beth (the B in LizzieB Cre8ive) and my friend Bonnie, who got 2 baby size tops done.

And last but not least I have also been working on my first block of HocusPocusVille. Since I am at cheer practice 3 to 4 nights a week and a football game every week I needed handwork. So I keep it in my purse to work on every time I have a minute to take a stitch.

Fundraiser For The 3 Day

I am having a Raffle for this flannel throw. For every $1 you donate today through May 5th at noon you will get 1 ticket entered into a drawing for a flannel throw my mom made. I will take care of the delivery of the throw.

My mom made it. One side has hot pink flannel and the other is white with pink ribbon flannel. It also has a hot pink crocheted edge. It is approx 41" x  84" in size.

All you have to do is click the link and make a donation. You will be entered into the raffle.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.the3day.org%2Fsite%2FTR%2F2012%2FSanFranciscoBayAreaEvent2012%3Fpx%3D5755047%26pg%3Dpersonal%26fr_id%

Thank you for your support!

Cash Mob

I am a HUGE supporter of the 3/50 Project. I believe in supporting locally owned businesses. Not only do they give back to local community but they support the local economy. It has been sad to see so many businesses close in the last few years do to the economy. I hope my $50 a month makes some difference.

Yesterday I read about Cash Mobs. As I read the article I got to thinking Stockton could use this. Heck all of San Joaquin County could benefit from this. Someone needs to get this organized here.

Then 2 things popped into my head. 1) Be the change you want to see. 2) Your a stay at home mom with nothing to do. HAHAHAHA

So after sleeping on this I figured I would go to my blog readers. What do you think? Should I start a Cash Mob here? Would you participate if one was started?

Day 1

Today is the first day of the Beach Body Swimsuit Challenge. I am HUNGRY! It will be worth it in the end. At least that is what I am telling myself.

Today we went shopping at Costco and did a little food prep to help make this easier. I will be doing more food prep tonight. I have to make it a routine to do the food prep that is my down fall. The other hard part is making time to exercise. Lucky me Daphne slept through Costco today. So no nap at home today and no time to workout during the day. I am hoping for the girls to go to bed on time tonight so I am not working out at midnight.

Here are my "Before" photos. I know real flattering right.

For some reason I can't upload photos,

In a FUNK!

The day to day stuff has been keeping way busy. I don't feel like I am getting much else done. I have been feeling kind of BLAH!

Yesterday I posted on facebook "I need some MOTIVATION." Less that 20 minutes later I get an e-mail to be part of the Warehouse Crew- Swim Suit Challenge. CRAP!!!! Yeah I replied "What do I need to do to be ready to start on March 5th?" This is a BIG FAT lesson in getting what you ask for!

So last night I placed my order for Brazil Butt Lift and my first 30 day supply of Shakeology!

Now I have to take my "Before" photo and wait for my instruction on the 25th.

Wish me LUCK!