tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-343942432024-03-14T02:50:08.270+10:00heavens to bettsybettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-9604968409009327972024-01-03T15:15:00.002+10:002024-01-03T15:15:53.871+10:00Intermission for a while. Now for 2024….<p> It’s been a very quiet blog I’m afraid as 2022 and 2023 have been difficult years for me health wise. (I’m afraid I don’t really have any reasons for 2021 -sorry)</p><p>2022 began with a diagnosis of COVID on New Year’s Day. Then it was followed by a diagnosis of Breast Cancer, a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, losing my hair, and then radiation. Top that off with a fractured ankle and that was just about the year done.</p><p>The good news is that everything went as it was supposed to and I am doing well. But 2023 brought another COVID diagnosis, fatigue and foot and hand neuropathy. The neuropathy in my hands has made sewing difficult and rather slow.</p><p>Now I am ready to start again. I have lots of things I had started and now I need to finish them. So as a not very active member of Chooky’s Chookshed I am going to try to be more active both physically and mentally and finish a few things I have here by joining in with our challenge . </p><p>I have just one problem though I use an iPad and the apps I used to use don’t seem to be around any more. So I am doing this through blogger and I can’t seem to remember how to highlight links or add photos so until I work it out things might be rather plain over here. Sorry.</p><p> Watch this space…..</p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-5782856931065594402021-02-09T12:26:00.001+10:002021-02-09T12:26:56.976+10:00UFOs - a slightly different way of thinking.<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3iWKg8uhWc/YCHwlQmTKiI/AAAAAAAAB0w/PgzgnrWQtAEq-_A4_CsYUPazznTcu5_sQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/3A225C3C-090F-4B7A-8406-B052D4E56549.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f3iWKg8uhWc/YCHwlQmTKiI/AAAAAAAAB0w/PgzgnrWQtAEq-_A4_CsYUPazznTcu5_sQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/3A225C3C-090F-4B7A-8406-B052D4E56549.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Our Sunday group of stitchers has been having a UFO thing going on for a few years now. A number is drawn every month and then we work on the item with the same number. I don’t have a lot of success because most of my UFOs are large projects and even though working towards a finish counts, it just doesn’t feel the same as actually finishing something.<p></p><p>So I when I was having a bit of a tidy up I started finding kits I had bought over the years but never made. This year is now going to be the year of starting and finishing kits. I have numbered them with stickers so they will still fit in with the random number idea. </p><p>This month though I have been working on one of those long term projects I have but after our next meeting I will be working on one of these kits and hopefully finishing it.</p><p>I think though that I will probably find enough kits to work on for years....</p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-15004784650361264092018-04-19T15:57:00.001+10:002019-03-04T07:02:39.142+10:00Testing<div class="mobile-photo">
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This is a test to see if I can blog from my iPad. I thought I would introduce my girls - Diamond, Topaz and Wombat. The last picture shows Topaz and Diamond trying to tell me that the grass really is greener on the other side.<br />
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Now to press publish....fingers crossed.bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-70574472618177749302016-07-27T12:23:00.001+10:002016-07-27T12:23:33.415+10:00No fuss swapping...<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ehlZRP5aQVI/V5gbJMnVF-I/AAAAAAAABq4/FJlJvvnZlW8/s640/blogger-image-2128286935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ehlZRP5aQVI/V5gbJMnVF-I/AAAAAAAABq4/FJlJvvnZlW8/s640/blogger-image-2128286935.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have been taking part in a friendly little swap called the no fuss swap. The idea is to send only a few items and nothing else. This time it was the Clayton's Christmas Swap - the Christmas you have when you are not having a Christmas. We had to send a fat quarter, a decoration and a button/buttons. Oh and something yummy. Here's what I received from Teresa - everything is perfect. And because it was delivered without the help of the postman, it was beautifully contained in a very interesting box. Thank you so much Teresa.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I can't show yet what I sent my partner as I don't know if she has opened it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Now I feel as if I am showing my age because I remember the ad for Clayton's - the drink you have when you are not having a drink. I wonder if you can still get it. Note to self - will have to check that out.</div>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-53363444488723314552016-06-16T14:12:00.002+10:002016-06-16T14:29:44.756+10:00Crochet and stuff<div style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px;">
My daughter likes to crochet and she has made this for her brother and it will be for his birthday which was earlier this week. ( it is a Pokemon - a Charizard I think) It is really amazing with fingernails and heaps of small details. I'll be honest I wouldn't even start such a thing.</div>
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This little monkey is what she made me for my birthday - the pattern comes from <a href="http://www.allaboutami.com/patterns" target="_self" title="">here</a>. The link doesn't go straight to the individual pattern because I wanted to link to all the lovely patterns on this site. You'll find the monkey there without any trouble. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E80LVcmyGSI/V2IrJZtzNLI/AAAAAAAABqA/lLr-GTWaFVw/s640/blogger-image-216509142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E80LVcmyGSI/V2IrJZtzNLI/AAAAAAAABqA/lLr-GTWaFVw/s640/blogger-image-216509142.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px;"><br></div>
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<a href="assets-library://asset/asset.PNG?id=E00C646E-0FA1-48F6-A65D-AA987A3F6348&ext=PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a>And yes, I do some crochet too. Last year there was a lovely crochet blanket pattern from <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/cosy-stripe-blanket.html" target="_self" title="">here</a> which just looked fantastic done in clear colours. This my ugly version so far. I couldn't afford to buy wool at the time so I raided my mother's stash,which was mostly variegated. I still don't know how I feel about it - my son says he likes it. It is a good project for when I take him to football training, so I'll keep going with it. </div>
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My daughter says knitting is boring but she likes making things in crochet. Maybe she was inspired by the teacher she had in Years 3 and 6, but not in the knitting area. Sorry <a href="http://thenextstage-maria.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Maria</a>, I tried to get her interested in knitting....</div>
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Some thoughts about blogging........ Anyone who visits here will realise that I haven't blogged much. There are a few reasons but the main one is I actually don't have a computer. I only have an iPad to use and obviously while it is possible to blog from one I find it difficult. It has already taken me an hour to get this far in writing this and I never know if what I have written will post properly. </div>
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While I love the tablet the size of memory is a problem (16 G) and I am forever juggling things for space. Not having a computer means that getting the photos off is difficult. Finally my daughter managed to put them on her computer to save them, but sadly her computer is off with her where she lives on campus at University. The photo of the monkey I have used here is actually a screen shot from Instagram ( poorly edited because I have had had to delete all my photo editing apps as well). </div>
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So probably the best thing for me to do is try to do short posts when I can. Fingers crossed.</div>
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<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-54025221762304072272015-09-14T20:27:00.001+10:002015-09-14T20:27:20.609+10:00A busy weekend.<p> While lots of people seemed to be off on sewing weekends, I was having a different sort of weekend. My youngest boy had a weekend of sporting activity and even though I prepared some stitching to take it didn't even get opened. </p><p>On Saturday his Under 13 Rugby League team played in the Grand Final. We didn't win but this team of boys have been winners all along - with their support of each other and their great spirit. They played their best for the full time and never gave up. He's number 10 in this photo.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_gE6mEnKxUk/Vfag65H7vII/AAAAAAAABpc/h1gtPMamlyw/s640/Photo%25252020150914202641291.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_gE6mEnKxUk/Vfag65H7vII/AAAAAAAABpc/h1gtPMamlyw/s500/Photo%25252020150914202641291.jpg" id="blogsy-1442226437959.87" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="480" height="640"></a></div><p> And then on Sunday we had an all day Volleyball tournament. It was an early start in the morning as we had to go to the Sunshine Coast and then it was a late night home. But the boys won all their matches and so were the winning team for Under 13 boys. Here's an action shot of my boy in flight after getting the ball over the net.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p3V5TKIYuuo/Vfag-RQmhgI/AAAAAAAABpk/2jfzYTbQb1M/s640/Photo%25252020150914202641375.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p3V5TKIYuuo/Vfag-RQmhgI/AAAAAAAABpk/2jfzYTbQb1M/s500/Photo%25252020150914202641375.jpg" id="blogsy-1442226437953.1638" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div><p> I am so proud of him for his dedication.</p><p>I did manage something crafty though. On Saturday I managed to squeeze in a visit to a show put on by the Nundah Cottage Group Quilters. Afterwards I was off to our Final celebrations at the Clubhouse. It was lovely to see all the quilts and have afternoon tea which came included in the entry price. My friend Dianne had a few quilts hanging and I took this one showing her Abacus quilt ( pattern made using the Quick Curve Ruler). Dianne and I went to a class for this one a while back. Yes, hers is finished and mine, well.......</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4kP8SZ2rF5Y/VfahBIJSSgI/AAAAAAAABps/PsasfZHBjYg/s640/Photo%25252020150914202641436.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4kP8SZ2rF5Y/VfahBIJSSgI/AAAAAAAABps/PsasfZHBjYg/s500/Photo%25252020150914202641436.jpg" id="blogsy-1442226438004.7766" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="375" alt=""></a></div><p> We had a rotten August with the flu - with my husband's significant '0' birthday a write off. We finally got through with the hope that September would be much better but now we all have colds - not as bad as flu but certainly enough to have lost my mojo for anything except sleeping. I am so looking forward to getting better.</p><p>I hope everyone out there is feeling full of spring bounce and not carrying the left overs of winter. Stay well.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-1795372904530838632015-09-02T13:32:00.001+10:002015-09-02T13:32:10.890+10:00A perfect Match.<p> At the end of June our Sunday Stitching group had a mini quilt swap. I received my swap from <a href="http://thisoldauntquilts.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Alison</a> who made me a beautiful little mini quilt with the teensiest of half square triangles and in my favourite colours of "blue and green and everything inbetween". These are not colours that <a href="http://thisoldauntquilts.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Alison</a> uses very much so I appreciate her effort to make something especially for me. She even provided the hanger.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W9OfRvZyXIE/VeZtmGtgv8I/AAAAAAAABpA/P1_LvpTXTPk/s2048/Photo%25252020150902133107759.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W9OfRvZyXIE/VeZtmGtgv8I/AAAAAAAABpA/P1_LvpTXTPk/s500/Photo%25252020150902133107759.jpg" id="blogsy-1441164729384.3486" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div><p> About the same time at Sunday Stitchers, <a href="http://re-de-zines.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">De</a> had the bright idea of offering us mini quilt frames which she and her husband would make. When I say it was a bright idea, I don't think that they realised that just about all of us would want one which made it a much bigger job than they thought.</p><p>Last Sunday's meeting saw the delivery of our frames. What a mighty effort! And I have come home and fitted my beautiful little quilt from Alison to the frame. </p><p>It's a perfect match! Doesn't it look fabulous? I can still use the other hanger if I want to change things around and hang it back on the wall, but for the moment this is staying like this.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nL1-sHlV4E4/VeZtt-5YTkI/AAAAAAAABpI/kyIJb_m35_c/s2048/Photo%25252020150902133108015.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nL1-sHlV4E4/VeZtt-5YTkI/AAAAAAAABpI/kyIJb_m35_c/s500/Photo%25252020150902133108015.jpg" id="blogsy-1441164729331.4536" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div><p> Thank you <a href="http://thisoldauntquilts.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Alison</a> and <a href="http://re-de-zines.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">De</a> for this lovely combination - truly a perfect match.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-30063183824218532532015-07-02T17:42:00.001+10:002015-07-02T17:45:01.962+10:00On retreat<p> I'm away on a wonderful week with great friends. We go to <a href="http://glenrosepatchwork.com" target="_self" title="">Glenrose</a> Patchwork in Warwick and stay in the <a href="http://www.glenrosecottages.com/the_cottages_accommodation_warwick_qld.html" target="_self" title="">cottages</a> there. The weather might be on the cool side but everything else is wonderful. </p><p>It is so nice to be able to sew and not have to put the machine away afterwards. We can set up and create to our heart's content. There has been lots of sewing and laughter and some lovely food temptations.</p><p>I heard a rumour that someone was surprised that I really did sew things. Yes, I do but I am not so good at photography so I never seem to have much to show to post about. </p><p>But here's what I have been up to......</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VUPEkG_99-Y/VZTrfyIkcAI/AAAAAAAABoo/E3u--A2cpfc/s1200/Photo%25252020150702174210332.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VUPEkG_99-Y/VZTrfyIkcAI/AAAAAAAABoo/E3u--A2cpfc/s500/Photo%25252020150702174210332.jpg" id="blogsy-1435822978013.1467" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div><p> There may even be some more productivity tonight.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-18465473678258568392015-03-26T18:27:00.001+10:002015-03-26T21:58:55.305+10:00A weekend in Nundle - no stitching in this post.<p> There are a lot of wonderful posts about going to Girl's Day In the Country held in Nundle (near Tamworth in New South Wales) and beautifully organised by Kerry Swain from Cottage on the Hill.</p><p>I went through my photos and tried to pick out some of the different ones I took.</p><p>A small group of us who arrived early went to the pub (Peel Inn) for dinner on Thursday night. We heard a strange noise and I went in to see what was going on. For some strange reason there was some sheep shearing going on in the public bar. The noise was coming from the round contraption in the back of the photo which I think was providing the power for the shears. Not something I expected to see on this trip.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kp0P-3oAmLY/VRPC34ovlBI/AAAAAAAABm0/h6Ro0BNiHuw/s640/Photo%25252020150326182708626.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kp0P-3oAmLY/VRPC34ovlBI/AAAAAAAABm0/h6Ro0BNiHuw/s500/Photo%25252020150326182708626.jpg" id="blogsy-1427358463306.9094" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="480" height="640"></a></div><p> The following morning we went out to Kerry's shop - before all the crowds arrived. Here's Teresa finding one or two things to buy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MNslY7ypjBs/VRPC599NpOI/AAAAAAAABm8/Rw27bcI-gZ8/s640/Photo%25252020150326182708680.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MNslY7ypjBs/VRPC599NpOI/AAAAAAAABm8/Rw27bcI-gZ8/s500/Photo%25252020150326182708680.jpg" id="blogsy-1427358463336.557" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div><p> And in the afternoon Cheryl and I did a bit of sight seeing when we went up to the Hanging Rock Lookout where we could look down on the town of Nundle. It is there in the middle of the photo and we could see over the beautiful valley. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S5JXUauM6_I/VRPC7gPpPTI/AAAAAAAABnE/vKICTBX-Qxs/s640/Photo%25252020150326182708731.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S5JXUauM6_I/VRPC7gPpPTI/AAAAAAAABnE/vKICTBX-Qxs/s500/Photo%25252020150326182708731.jpg" id="blogsy-1427358463370.9578" class="alignnone" alt="" width="480" height="640"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: none;">The caravan park and cabins is one of the nicer ones I have stayed at and at this time of year all the roses are blooming and are simply beautiful. This one was flowering outside our cabin.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-26KPmPkXCtw/VRPC9HnsTqI/AAAAAAAABnM/HvVmxoGqPQU/s640/Photo%25252020150326182708777.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-26KPmPkXCtw/VRPC9HnsTqI/AAAAAAAABnM/HvVmxoGqPQU/s500/Photo%25252020150326182708777.jpg" id="blogsy-1427358463323.014" class="aligncenter" width="480" height="640" alt=""></a></div><p> On the Friday night we walked up to have dinner - looking back at the pub and the sunset. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RbvUBi_8mPk/VRPC-nVZbNI/AAAAAAAABnU/qYgzVreW3ns/s640/Photo%25252020150326182708818.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RbvUBi_8mPk/VRPC-nVZbNI/AAAAAAAABnU/qYgzVreW3ns/s500/Photo%25252020150326182708818.jpg" id="blogsy-1427358463287.9749" class="aligncenter" width="480" height="640" alt=""></a></div><p> Good night Nundle.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-63837986800247131062015-01-05T13:40:00.001+10:002015-01-05T13:42:46.823+10:00Secret Santa Christmas Swap<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This is the lovely item I received from <a href="http://(null)" target="_self" title=""></a><a href="http://stitchduchessscrazysanequiltingworld.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Wendy</a> for the SSCS. <a href="http://stitchduchessscrazysanequiltingworld.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Wendy</a> had said on her blog that she hoped I'd get a better picture of it as it was rainy when she posted hers. I'm not sure I did Wendy as it is pouring here where I am and I don't want to waste any longer posting this. The colours aren't showing up quite as pretty as they are but it seems to be the best I can do. There are two hangers on the top to hang this up as it is actually a pouch and if you look carefully across the width of the heart you can see there is a pocket for storing special things. And there are lots of pearls all around the edge and on the pretty pink doily. Thank you so much Wendy for making such a pretty heart pouch.</span></p><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-x2vvLwfMTMk/VKoEIqM8iKI/AAAAAAAABkk/BR3Jph30nzI/s2048/Photo%25252020150105132555803.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-x2vvLwfMTMk/VKoEIqM8iKI/AAAAAAAABkk/BR3Jph30nzI/s500/Photo%25252020150105132555803.jpg" id="blogsy-1420428426881.4272" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="373" alt=""></font></a></div><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And also there was the Christmas decoration which I was able to open when I received the parcel. It reminds me of Harry Potter because it is a white owl but cute for Christmas too as it is snowy and sits in the tree perfectly.</span></p><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3m3huC9G4YI/VKoEQq2sKaI/AAAAAAAABks/i2gZM4ud_cc/s2048/Photo%25252020150105132556059.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3m3huC9G4YI/VKoEQq2sKaI/AAAAAAAABks/i2gZM4ud_cc/s500/Photo%25252020150105132556059.jpg" id="blogsy-1420428426873.426" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="373" alt=""></font></a></div><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Thank you <a href="http://stitchduchessscrazysanequiltingworld.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Wendy</a> for your lovely gift and ornament. And thank you <a href="http://www.chookyblue.blogspot.com" target="_self" title="">Chookyblue</a> for running the swap again. </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I apologise for being late in posting this. Christmas is always busy and spent at my inlaw's house. Then over the New Year period we go camping at <a href="http://www.campsight.com.au/shop-product/great-south-east/stinson-park--christmas-creek" target="_self" title="">Stinson Park</a> where there is no electricity, phone or wi-fi. It isn't so bad but when I get home there is always catching up to. Thanks for your patience.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-46717133196039116462014-11-01T11:37:00.001+10:002014-11-01T11:41:29.401+10:00Exhausted, tired, over emotional and just over it all.<p> Note - the over emotional part of this is because I have just written this post and it didn't publish and has disappeared to I don't know where. It was hard enough to write it the first time, now I have to do it again.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>My mother is a hoarder. You could say that it is like those shows on TV except I didn't have to deal with yucky food stuff. My husband would have had everything sent to the dump but it actually doesn't work like that.</p><p>A year ago my mother went into an aged care facility. Prior to that I was dealing with her illness. This year has been the year of dealing with her stuff.</p><p>I am an only child, so this has been my job. I have a wonderful supportive friend who has been with me, helping, guiding, and generally being there. I could not have done this without her, and I will be forever grateful.</p><p>This year has seen me walking a fine line of keeping my mother happy thinking that all her stuff is safe and keeping my family happy spending time with them. </p><p>So we started in March sorting through kitchen and laundry stuff, one or two days a week. We then stepped it up a bit and in June we started to attack this......</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-izAUmc_GAyc/VFQ5RaFKoNI/AAAAAAAABkU/jgsTReTBWzM/s640/Photo%25252020141101113623.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-izAUmc_GAyc/VFQ5RaFKoNI/AAAAAAAABkU/jgsTReTBWzM/s500/Photo%25252020141101113623.jpg" id="blogsy-1414805794531.6526" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="375" alt=""></a></div><p>This was the back enclosed area of her place in June. We took loads to the dump. We filled the rubbish and recycling bins with as much as we could. We packed, and tossed. We found some good things and some bad. But we kept on.</p><p>My mother is also an only child so there was also stuff from my grandmother. She died in 1982, and her stuff had been packed since then. I doubt if it had been looked at but it had to be kept didn't it? </p><p>Mum's place is in an over 50's village so they have actually given me until today to vacate. Luckily I have a bit of extra time, but probably only until next Thursday as on Friday I have to go into hospital for the day to have a tooth removed. I have some other small health issues I have to see to as well when I get the time.</p><p>I am almost there. I have done two of the bedrooms,most of the house but I still have her bedroom to do. At this stage I still haven't worked out what to do with the furniture. I have been there just about every day this month. </p><p>I grew up thinking that it was normal to live this way. Everyday I still fight with the thinking patterns I learned as a child. I haven't told my mother just how much I have thrown away. It all has value in her eyes. She has mentioned quite a few times that I mustn't throw out those early editions of Cleo from the 70's because they must be worth a fortune by now. I am past caring if they are or they aren't.</p><p>I am exhausted - physically and mentally. I need to just sit and get myself back to where I want to be. I have learnt lessons I didn't really want to but hopefully which will make me a stronger person.</p><p>I will leave a thought here - please don't keep things because they are too good to use. I have been told this all my life and it has brought my mother and I to this point in 2014. She is unable to change but I can. I have seen how things deteriorate and then have to be thrown out, just because they were too good to use. I will use things and enjoy them and I won't leave a legacy such as this one for my family. </p><p> </p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-81038368292284108962014-09-20T11:18:00.001+10:002014-09-20T11:18:35.949+10:00What a week! (One)<p> This has been such a week of activity. Last Saturday it was a visit to the Samford quilter's show. That was lovely with morning tea included but although I took photos I won't post them as I don't know if there is permission. There was also a display of wedding dresses which was interesting, oh how things have changed and to be honest I liked the older ones. I should have taken a photo of those. ( Never mind)</p><p>Sunday saw me travelling up the range to Toowoomba to The Quilter's Angel for their Stitcher's Dream Day Out. Quite a group of Brisbane girls were there, which was lovely as it made for a great social day. There have been a few blogs with posts about that - with far better photos than mine. This photo shows the four projects for the day. We get the patterns for four and the makings for one. I received the teddy cameo one. The designers were Libby Richardson and Debbie McGee. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5deHyXSqubA/VBzVzWPmeJI/AAAAAAAABjs/A-36cOKQTSk/s1536/Photo%25252020140920111547.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5deHyXSqubA/VBzVzWPmeJI/AAAAAAAABjs/A-36cOKQTSk/s500/Photo%25252020140920111547.jpg" id="blogsy-1411175802559.8667" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We also did the painting of the teddy bear so I am keen to finish that too, although it may not end up as a cushion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4Yk-dEaCHt4/VBzV5Mv15wI/AAAAAAAABj0/jdwKeuMtC-o/s1536/Photo%25252020140920111547.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4Yk-dEaCHt4/VBzV5Mv15wI/AAAAAAAABj0/jdwKeuMtC-o/s500/Photo%25252020140920111547.jpg" id="blogsy-1411175802552.414" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div><p>Here's a view of the room before we all took it over. And also a little needle case (butterfly) which was an extra project by Debbie McGee. It was really cute and looks easy to sew.</p><p>Tuesday saw our Tuesday kitchen table group get together which is always fun.</p><p>So that is half of the week, but it doesn't stop there. Another post coming soon.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-65962860873311845322014-08-12T17:56:00.001+10:002014-08-12T17:56:33.752+10:00Christmas in July Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lN2aSdLhkf0/U-nIrNkAXjI/AAAAAAAABjc/St812N-BVE8/s720/Photo%25252020140812180251.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-lN2aSdLhkf0/U-nIrNkAXjI/AAAAAAAABjc/St812N-BVE8/s500/Photo%25252020140812180251.jpg" id="blogsy-1407830584250.944" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="670" alt=""></a></div><p> I know, I know it's August. But Christmas did arrive in July. You can see what I received from <a href="http://www.countryfragrance.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Sharm</a>. Thank you Sharm and <a href="http://stitchingcubbyhole.blogspot.com.au/p/christmas-in-july.html" target="_self" title="">Cheryll</a> too ( our great organiser)</p><p> There was a Christmas Apron, which is just right for when I cook the Christmas pudding. I am the family Christmas pudding maker and I have been making it since I was old enough to do so. I have a recipe which has been handed down through a few generations - there have one or two changes but generally it has stayed the same for the time that I have been making it. So this year I will look the part and certainly be in the right mood for pudding making. </p><p>A cute little mouse pincushion is there too. I don't think he will be stirring on Christmas Eve although he might jump a bit if I put a pin in him. And included were some lovely candle melts. These are headed for the bathroom as both my tradie son and I like having relaxing baths. So <a href="http://www.countryfragrance.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Sharm</a> really hit the jackpot with these choices, didn't she?</p><p> And yummy goodies too - do I need to say anything more?</p><p>So thank you Sharm and Cheryll - it's nice to feel special half way through the year.</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-30888931006555310832014-06-03T11:25:00.001+10:002014-06-03T11:25:29.769+10:00The Chookshed Anniversary.
<p> </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1bgaekYjR8s/U40kAwN597I/AAAAAAAABjE/EZCB9ECoDzI/s1000/Photo%25252020140603112926.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1bgaekYjR8s/U40kAwN597I/AAAAAAAABjE/EZCB9ECoDzI/s500/Photo%25252020140603112926.jpg" id="blogsy-1401758992679.3457" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p> Lots of people were sewing along with <a href="http://www.chookyblue.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Chooky</a> for the anniversary of her chookshed. I wish I had been able to be there in person but time was spent at home working on the hexagons for the project we started at Nundle this year. I can't believe just how long they are taking. </p>
<p>The white paper behind is what I started using when I was setting them out. The designer of this project - <a href="http://www.lynetteandersondesigns.typepad.com/" target="_self" title="">Lynette Anderson</a> - suggested using double sided sticky tape on paper to keep things in order. Not a bad idea and I did use it to start with as it did prevent the little hexis going everywhere. I bought an extra fat quarter of the dark red spot to add in for a bit of contrast which I am happy about.</p>
<p>The plan is to have it finished by next year when we go back to Nundle to work with Lynette again.</p>
<p>So Happy Anniversary to the Chookshed. We'll hopefully celebrate with you again next year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-70815460451640044372014-02-15T13:16:00.001+10:002014-02-15T13:16:23.727+10:00Initial heart swap and birthday<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I joined in <a href="http://stitchingcubbyhole.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Cheryll's Initial Heart Swap</a> for the second time and my partner was <a href="http://hibiscus-stitches.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Anthea of Hibiscus Stitches</a>. She sent me a beautiful lacy heart, some post it notes which I unfortunately cropped from the photo,some pins and sweeties and a birthday candle. Anthea knew my birthday <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">was coming up so she included the candle for fun. Thank you so much Anthea.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Doesn't the heart look lovely? <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6e-KptViFFU/Uv7b8fcPNDI/AAAAAAAABh0/rWe7-OYB_fM/s720/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A10%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6e-KptViFFU/Uv7b8fcPNDI/AAAAAAAABh0/rWe7-OYB_fM/s500/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A10%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1392434295979.9016" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made Anthea a bag with a heart embroidery on it. This was a pattern I received last year at the Stitcher's Dream Day Out run by the <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au" target="_self" title="">Quilter's Angel</a> in Toowoomba.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DFuGzk771s8/Uv7b-bjQCII/AAAAAAAABh8/T3NwwgDrhXs/s720/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A11%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DFuGzk771s8/Uv7b-bjQCII/AAAAAAAABh8/T3NwwgDrhXs/s500/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A11%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1392434295986.1633" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="468"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pattern was designed by<a href="http://www.ellaandskysiedesigns.com" target="_self" title=""> Ella and Skysie Designs</a> who have quite a few crinoline patterns. The designer said that she liked to have a bag which she could use when she was watching the kids at sport. The one handle goes on the arm and hold balls of wool while knitting or crocheting,without going all over the place. I'm sure that it would suit other uses as well. There are pockets inside as well. I also included a bath bomb too - I hope Anthea finds the time to relax with it. (And eat the M and M's I included as well).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OHmJ34N__aw/Uv7cA4ZFmlI/AAAAAAAABiE/bjoASkQ4KDM/s720/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A04%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OHmJ34N__aw/Uv7cA4ZFmlI/AAAAAAAABiE/bjoASkQ4KDM/s500/Photo%25252015%252520Feb%2525202014%25252012%25253A04%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1392434296044.71" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="670" alt=""></a></div><p> Yep, I had another birthday yesterday. I wonder what my friends and relatives think about me - either I am hard to buy for or they think I have a secret gambling side to me. However I promise that I won't spend all of my $4 winnings too quickly. It was a bit disappointing to not win more with so many scratch-its. I still have a lotto ticket for tonight, that might be the one.</p><p>As for other presents, well, I'm sure I will enjoy my new radiator, battery, rear brakes, new engine mount block and other things for the car. It doesn't matter to me though as I always say my weekend trip to Girl's Day in the Country next month is as good as an actual gift and now I have $4 more spending money. Looking forward to seeing everyone again and meeting some bloggers I've met on the net but not in person. (Waving to <a href="http://shez-enjoyinglife.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Shez</a>)</p><p> </p><p>Just a piece of birthday trivia - I was born in the afternoon but it was a full moon that night. Last night for my birthday there was a full moon again. I'm off to see how many other times this has happened. ( just discovered that it is 19 years since the<a href="http://m.koreatimes.co.kr/phone/news/view.jsp?req_newsidx=151464" target="_self" title=""> last time</a> this happened)</p><p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-27646308393443641722014-01-25T16:30:00.001+10:002014-01-25T16:30:13.019+10:00Learning something new.<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Two days ago my teenage daughter asked me if I could teach her to crochet. This was at 5.30 pm and she knew I was going out in an hour. I didn't want to discourage her as she can give up on an idea easily ( and would probably never speak to me again if she knew I had written that). So I took the time to show her how to do a chain and double and treble stitches. Then I had to go...... But I left her with a wonderful tutorial from <a href="http://spincushions.com/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square/">he</a><a href="http://spincushions.com/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square/" target="_self" title=""></a><a href="http://spincushions.com/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square/" target="_self" title=""></a><a href="http://spincushions.com/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square/" target="_self" title=""></a><a href="http://spincushions.com/how-to-crochet-a-granny-square/" target="_self" title=""></a>re.</span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Dg_L5o-4QmM/UuNZ7TeHxCI/AAAAAAAABhk/FQ835dikKNc/s720/Photo%25252025%252520Jan%2525202014%2525201%25253A21%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Dg_L5o-4QmM/UuNZ7TeHxCI/AAAAAAAABhk/FQ835dikKNc/s500/Photo%25252025%252520Jan%2525202014%2525201%25253A21%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1390631493329.1492" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p> By the time I got home she had created the little granny square and since then she has gone on to make the larger square. The reason she has stopped - well she has run out of wool. And of course we only had one ball. But never fear we will get some more.</p>
<p>I think she is on to something and it makes me happy seeing her doing something crafty.</p>
<p>As for me, well, there seems to have been nothing crafty going on at all, maybe next week when the kids go back to school.</p>
<p> Thank you to Shelley at <a href="http://" target="_self" title="">Spincushions</a> for the wonderful tutorial. It certainly helped one teenager to learn to crochet.</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-83318887682057191712014-01-09T19:44:00.001+10:002014-01-09T19:44:01.049+10:00Christmas Swap Goodies.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There has been quite a bit going on here lately. Of course there was Christmas where we were at my inlaw's for two days. A few days later, my brother in law had his sixtieth birthday party and the next day we went camping, with no internet, phone coverage or showers. We saw the New Year in while we were away. We came home to a 50th birthday event. A few other things kept me busy which not worth mentioning,and now life is becoming normal again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A few things which are worth mentioning are the wonderful gifts I received in swaps. I've been in Chookyblue's swap every year so far and it was great to participate again. Here's the main gift I received from Carole in the USA. It's not the best photo as it doesn't show the beautiful appliqué work. I just haven't had time to find a place where it will show off the stitchery. There was a photo a post or so ago which showed the other things from the parcel I received - the ornament,chocolate and cute pattern. Thank you <a href="http://www.carolesquiltingetc.com" target="_self" title="">Carole</a> and also <a href="http://www.chookyblue.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Chookyblue</a> and <a href="http://SRPatricia Australia http://toomanyeggs-trish.blogspot.com.au/" target="_self" title="">Googy</a> Girl for the organising.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hvJC0kSwGvg/Us5vQYefeBI/AAAAAAAABhE/V6Lu3LiaiwY/s1675/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A27%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hvJC0kSwGvg/Us5vQYefeBI/AAAAAAAABhE/V6Lu3LiaiwY/s500/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A27%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1389260705298.5208" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="750"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the Santa Sack swap which <a href="http://stitchingcubbyhole.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Cheryll</a> runs I was partnered with <a href="http://patchingpixies.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Dasha</a> who sent so many wonderful things. Unfortunately the actual sack didn't make the photo because it was in use as a carry bag for everything over Christmas. Dasha made me a name tag, a bag for my cut off threads, beautiful zippy bag, a really useful pincushion to sit at the front of my machine. It is long and skinny and will sit just in front of my machine where I won't knock it off, which is something I do regularly with my other one. And finally, check out my cute Christmas Angel - isn't she just fabulous!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F2SIwnhQ59c/Us5vUUK0-yI/AAAAAAAABhM/8VTubrlDEBc/s1149/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A16%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-F2SIwnhQ59c/Us5vUUK0-yI/AAAAAAAABhM/8VTubrlDEBc/s500/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A16%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1389260705261.002" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://happyinquilting.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Peg</a> was my partner in <a href="http://" target="_self" title="">Mare</a><a href="http://ollieandmay.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title=""></a>e's 6 item swap with something smelly (lovely soap), something for the sewing room ( a Rosalie Quinlan stitchery,a fat quarter,and one of Peg's little sewing sets) an ornament for the tree, ( a cute wooden reindeer) something to eat, (mug and coffee's and chocolate!) some thing to read (magazine and a great clip board which has been in use constantly)and something for under the tree. I just realised that my collage picture wasn't the clearest for that gift but there was a lovely table runner,a cupcake tea towel and a Christmas stitchery. I think I might do another photo to show these things better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So thank you Peg for all the wonderful Peg goodness,I love it all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And thanks <a href="http://ollieandmay.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Maree</a> too for running this swap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zJEeKopqlyM/Us5vXNHlukI/AAAAAAAABhU/eNKrLH9IYOk/s720/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A10%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zJEeKopqlyM/Us5vXNHlukI/AAAAAAAABhU/eNKrLH9IYOk/s500/Photo%2525209%252520Jan%2525202014%2525206%25253A10%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1389260705243.6936" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p style="text-align: center;"> I can't say how blessed I have been this Christmas with my swaps and swap partners. I want to thank each and every one for the wonderful things I received and the wonderful people who run these swaps as well. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Thank you and warm wishes to all.</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-78392731185476419382013-12-21T17:48:00.001+10:002013-12-21T17:48:05.898+10:00FNSI and a cute freebie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RSmz_BugpHE/UrVHsQHSZXI/AAAAAAAABg0/L1YojPqy3ig/s720/Photo%25252021%252520Dec%2525202013%2525205%25253A11%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RSmz_BugpHE/UrVHsQHSZXI/AAAAAAAABg0/L1YojPqy3ig/s500/Photo%25252021%252520Dec%2525202013%2525205%25253A11%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1387612123664.2166" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="670" alt=""></a></div>
<p> With a bit of time to make something for myself I joined in with others at last night's Friday Night Sew In. Earlier in the week I had found this cute little freebie pattern over <a href="http://twobrownbirds.typepad.com/two-brown-birds/2013/12/my-christmas-present-for-you.html" target="_self" title="">here</a> and just knew I wanted to make him. So this is what I did for Friday night - a perfect little project.</p>
<p>You can find the link to the PDF pattern over <a href="http://twobrownbirds.typepad.com/two-brown-birds/2013/12/my-christmas-present-for-you.html" target="_self" title="">here</a>. Make sure you go and have a look at the post as there is also a really cute animation to see. Many thanks to Fiona Tully of Two Brown Birds for this super cute gift pattern.</p>
<p>And don't forget to visit <a href="http://sugarlanequilts.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/friday-night-sew-in-fnsi-sign-ups-for.html" target="_self" title="">Wendy</a> at Sugarlane Designs for the links to others who joined in. Thanks <a href="http://sugarlanequilts.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/friday-night-sew-in-fnsi-sign-ups-for.html" target="_self" title="">Wendy</a>.</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-21236184203289672972013-12-14T13:17:00.001+10:002013-12-14T13:17:24.073+10:00Christmas is coming. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Parcels have been arriving at my house - ooh so much temptation!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We haven't started decorating yet - there has so much going on this December. I am hoping that tomorrow will be the day. We have a wedding to go to today and school is finished for the year so we can really get into the family feeling.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This parcel is my SSCS parcel from Carole. I haven't even touched the chocolate yet - I think it might give me some energy got Christmas Tree decorating. Thanks Carole for sending my parcel and the lovely decoration as well. (And thanks to Chookyblue and her helper for organising this again this year.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q3I7NcvDMtg/UqvNozZdy4I/AAAAAAAABgM/6aNkdFvmk2o/s640/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A38%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q3I7NcvDMtg/UqvNozZdy4I/AAAAAAAABgM/6aNkdFvmk2o/s500/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A38%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1386991070704.1816" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="478" height="640"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This bundle of gifts is from Dasha in the Santa Sack swap run by Cheryll (Thanks Cheryll) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's all sorts of squishy goodness here. I can't wait for opening day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UDflwhpmAGc/UqvNrb7FRDI/AAAAAAAABgU/joaOIP_MHbM/s640/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A39%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UDflwhpmAGc/UqvNrb7FRDI/AAAAAAAABgU/joaOIP_MHbM/s500/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A39%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1386991070751.014" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="373"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And this sparkly sack comes from Peg in another online swap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was full of brown paper packages tied up with string.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5M9f9MUd2iA/UqvNt3D464I/AAAAAAAABgc/3kcHLvCm8c0/s720/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A34%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5M9f9MUd2iA/UqvNt3D464I/AAAAAAAABgc/3kcHLvCm8c0/s500/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A34%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1386991070655.6624" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="670"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Where's the string in this picture ? Well this morning my boys decided to make some sort of cricket training thing and what did they need - string ! So they raided my parcels. I guess I'll have to open them now, which is alright as we are allowed to open all but one for under the tree.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-caF_1fe3kjU/UqvNv6UK7MI/AAAAAAAABgk/U5wOR3rjYW0/s720/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A35%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-caF_1fe3kjU/UqvNv6UK7MI/AAAAAAAABgk/U5wOR3rjYW0/s500/Photo%25252014%252520Dec%2525202013%25252012%25253A35%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1386991070749.363" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="669" alt=""></a></div>
<p style="text-align: center;"> So thank you to everyone for your wonderful swap gifts and also to the organisers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-45637174483050721322013-11-20T12:56:00.001+10:002013-11-20T12:56:42.321+10:00Sunday Stitching Christmas Party<p>The thing about having a group of bloggers meet is that they all blog about the event. In this case it is great because I didn't take a lot of photos and looking at all the blogs helps to remember what a fun day we all had. </p>
<p> Somehow I only got a photo of one end of the table so I apologise to the other end for missing them out. Maybe this is the naughty end of the table L-R <a href="http://tatkis-mousehouse.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Tatyana</a>, <a href="http://sewmoorewithsandi.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Sandi</a>, <a href="http://re-de-zines.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">De</a>, <a href="http://allthingsvintage-teresa.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Teresa</a>, and <a href="http://quiltybitsfromtheblueroom.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Noela</a>. Tatyana is talking to <a href="http://helbels.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Helen</a> but she somehow missed out on being in the photo.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-I9UtN7SPXqY/Uowk3NDU0ZI/AAAAAAAABf0/AiIaU0h5T-A/s720/Photo%25252020%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A53%252520am.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-I9UtN7SPXqY/Uowk3NDU0ZI/AAAAAAAABf0/AiIaU0h5T-A/s500/Photo%25252020%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A53%252520am.jpg" id="blogsy-1384916191554.0027" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="720" height="538"></a></div>
<p> My present in the Secret Santa Swap was from <a href="http://re-de-zines.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">De</a>, and was a mug holder. The special part was that De had remembered that I was a tea drinker and found just the perfect mug for me. Now I am set for all of our meetings next year - no missing out on my tea because I didn't bring a mug.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YV-0wrnFk_Q/Uowk5TGDS-I/AAAAAAAABf8/mLPqYjcmWRE/s720/Photo%25252020%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A50%252520am.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YV-0wrnFk_Q/Uowk5TGDS-I/AAAAAAAABf8/mLPqYjcmWRE/s500/Photo%25252020%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A50%252520am.jpg" id="blogsy-1384916191501.8293" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p> And I just remembered that that little parcel on the top ( in the picture of it wrapped) was a packet of strawberry Tim Tams, I suppose you can guess why it didn't make it into the other photos.</p>
<p> So to everyone who was there - <a href="http://susans-sewing-space.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Susan</a>, <a href="http://mardimeanderings.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Marilyn</a>, <a href="http://helbels.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Helen</a>, <a href="http://tatkis-mousehouse.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Tatyana</a>, <a href="http://sewmoorewithsandi.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Sandi</a>, <a href="http://allthingsvintage-teresa.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Teresa</a>, <a href="http://quiltybitsfromtheblueroom.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Noela</a>, <a href="http://ollieandmay.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Maree</a>, Maree, <a href="http://jeanettespatch.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Jeanette</a>, <a href="http://sweet-little-cottage.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Deb</a>, <a href="http://re-de-zines.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">De</a>, <a href="http://thenextstage-maria.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Maria</a>, and <a href="http://blissintheburbs-kayly.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Cheryl</a> - thank you for a lovely afternoon and thank you De for my gift and also to the other ladies who brought the extra little gifties. Thanks to <a href="http://ollieandmay.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Maree</a> also for putting this together for us.</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-59686109726816870322013-11-18T10:54:00.001+10:002013-11-18T10:58:48.178+10:00Secret Santa gift for Helen.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1_8xRMPWsKE/UollKibgeKI/AAAAAAAABfc/uztuNAgznZE/s720/Photo%25252017%252520Nov%2525202013%2525209%25253A52%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1_8xRMPWsKE/UollKibgeKI/AAAAAAAABfc/uztuNAgznZE/s500/Photo%25252017%252520Nov%2525202013%2525209%25253A52%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1384736040134.707" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="374"></a></div>
<p> This a short post to show what I made with that cross stitching I was doing. Yesterday was one of my group's Christmas 'do' and we had a Secret Santa swap. The triangular shape of the cross stitch turned into a strawberry ornament/ pincushion. It is a Blackbird Designs ornament from the Just Cross stitch ornament edition 2006. I really loved making it and I might just have to make one for myself as well. This one was for Helen. I'm not sure but maybe the Santa Rubber Duck I put on the lid of the box might have almost been her favourite part of the gift - I know some other people were trying to steal it.</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ooY6MuLjukU/UollMidRIyI/AAAAAAAABfk/7GQYeHo4MPY/s720/Photo%25252018%252520Nov%2525202013%25252010%25253A45%252520am.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ooY6MuLjukU/UollMidRIyI/AAAAAAAABfk/7GQYeHo4MPY/s500/Photo%25252018%252520Nov%2525202013%25252010%25253A45%252520am.jpg" id="blogsy-1384736040103.219" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p> Cute isn't it ?</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-62256576858293724902013-11-14T12:29:00.001+10:002013-11-14T12:29:05.195+10:00Returning to another love.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XMWLZkhfCk0/UoQ1bHSd9WI/AAAAAAAABfM/r-p7WODKuYU/s640/Photo%25252014%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A59%252520am.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XMWLZkhfCk0/UoQ1bHSd9WI/AAAAAAAABfM/r-p7WODKuYU/s500/Photo%25252014%252520Nov%2525202013%25252011%25253A59%252520am.jpg" id="blogsy-1384396124171.69" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></div>
<p> <font face="Comic Sans MS">I have always played with fabric but another love has been counted thread embroidery. I haven't done a lot lately so it was nice to return to the rhythm of this sort of stitching. I have always loved doing cross stitch, hardanger and pulled thread work. Don't ask me to do more free form work - I am hopeless at stitches like grub roses and satin stitch. I am happy with doing back stitch and stem stitch though.</font></p>
<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">I am in a few swaps this year for Christmas and for one of them I decided to make something in cross stitch. I can't show you yet but I will when ......?...... has received it. I have really enjoyed stitching again.</font></p>
<p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><br>
</font></p>
<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">I have been absent quite a bit this year. Last May my mother was hospitalized after a fall and her health went down from there. I'm an only child and so I had to check on regularly as well as doing her housework and shopping. (Which is something I don't like doing even for myself). In September I had to take her to hospital again, as she had no strength to do anything and was suffering from a diabetic condition - her weight had gone down to around 31 kilograms and she wasn't managing anything at all. After a lot of medical care she is picking up and we have been lucky enough to get her into an aged care facility. So now I am able to relax as I know she is being looked after. The next issue is to start cleaning up her old place, which is going to present a new set of issues as she is a fairly bad hoarder, and is going to find it hard to let go of anything. Wish me luck !</font></p>
<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">So now I am looking forward to catching up with all things I started before all this happened, but I have to get all my secret stuff sent off first. It is an exciting time of the year !</font></p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-32418744988057589132013-10-21T17:39:00.001+10:002013-10-21T17:39:16.339+10:00A great day out.<p> Sometimes it is nice to have a day out to get away from all the stuff going on in real life. I had been looking forward to going to the Brisbane Craft and Quilt Fair. And I knew a few other crafty people who were going to be there too so I was looking forward to catching up with them as well. I know that there have been a few photos like this one on people's blogs. This one was the one taken on my phone and I can see that two people escaped getting into it. Sorry <a href="http://susans-sewing-space.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Susan</a> and <a href="http://michelleridgwaydesigns1.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Michelle</a>.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0MZwVVQ9Ug0/UmTaC10IBkI/AAAAAAAABe0/BCKSz3VRPuo/s640/Photo%25252021%252520Oct%2525202013%2525203%25253A48%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0MZwVVQ9Ug0/UmTaC10IBkI/AAAAAAAABe0/BCKSz3VRPuo/s500/Photo%25252021%252520Oct%2525202013%2525203%25253A48%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1382341096178.1306" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<p> L to R. <a href="http://valspierssews.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Val</a>, <a href="http://allthingsvintage-teresa.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Teresa</a>, <a href="http://tatkis-mousehouse.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Tatyana</a>, <a href="http://sewmoorewithsandi.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Sandi</a>, <a href="http://mardimeanderings.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Marilyn</a>,and <a href="http://quiltybitsfromtheblueroom.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Noela</a>. Behind L to R. Me, <a href="http://bubzrugz.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Fiona</a> . <a href="http://quiltjane.blogspot.com.au" target="_self" title="">Jane</a> took the photo so that she wouldn't be in it....sneaky. </p>
<p>I am sure that we all would have loved to stay chatting for much longer but of course there is always shopping to do. Four of us then walked around looking at all the wonderful quilts. Sometimes it can be so overwhelming and I am sure I missed at least one row, as when I looked at some of the photos others took I don't remember seeing them.</p>
<p>And did I buy anything?...well of course I did. I think that this might be the first year I managed to buy everything I wanted. Of course there are always the things to find which you know you need as soon as you see them.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fmG1XXIGvxk/UmTaHwUUVNI/AAAAAAAABe8/8Fegn-RJUF8/s1600/Photo%25252021%252520Oct%2525202013%2525204%25253A24%252520pm.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fmG1XXIGvxk/UmTaHwUUVNI/AAAAAAAABe8/8Fegn-RJUF8/s500/Photo%25252021%252520Oct%2525202013%2525204%25253A24%252520pm.jpg" id="blogsy-1382341096221.7139" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="374" alt=""></a></div>
<p> The stitchery things on the right were on my list. I had been stitching the day before and ran out of the thread so I was very happy to find some more. I want to use the same thread for a cross stitch project I am doing for a swap, and I bought the linen for that as well. I also wanted to get the Squedge 18 ruler. I have the other two ( 15 and 22.5) but wanted this one as well. There were some things I really 'needed' - I was very excited to get a new book by <a href="http://thebirdhouse.typepad.com" target="_self" title="">Natalie</a> Bird of The <a href="http://thebirdhouse.typepad.com" target="_self" title="">Birdhouse</a>. She had only received stock the night before the show so it was very hot off the press. I always love little Japanese kits and I also bought the fabric in the background. I bought it because I liked the clean look of the flowers but when I opened the roll up I found it had bunnies as well. Did I ever mention that I love bunnies?</p>
<p>I resisted going again the next day. I know I could have found more to look at and of course more to buy. </p>
<p>There's always next year. Who's going to meet me there?</p>
<p> </p>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-1251892773973285422013-09-18T14:21:00.000+10:002013-09-18T16:26:49.910+10:00Stitcher's Dream Day Out in Toowoomba.There have been some tricky times over the last few months with family issues, health issues and even computer issues. There has been very little 'me' time so I decided that I needed a day out and what better place than in Toowoomba at the Stitcher's Dream Day Out. This is run by <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au/">The Quilter's Angel</a> and is well worth the trip. It is about a 2 hour drive from where I live but as most crafty people know, we never let things like that stop us, and I had my trusty travelling companion <a href="http://blissintheburbs-kayly.blogspot.com.au/">Cheryl</a> with me.<br />
This was the table which was waiting for us. The theme this year was <span style="color: #ff99cf;"><em><strong>Love</strong></em></span> so everything was decorated beautifully in reds and pinks. <br />
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rEOHBJNODo0/UjkqmDY27KI/AAAAAAAABdQ/GZH57vGne1A/s1400/2013%2525201%25253A00%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="373" id="blogsy-1379478108795.2285" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rEOHBJNODo0/UjkqmDY27KI/AAAAAAAABdQ/GZH57vGne1A/s500/2013%2525201%25253A00%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
There were six projects presented, we got the patterns for all six and a kit to make one. The designers this year were <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au/">Rosalie Quinlan</a>, Debbie Magee and <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au/">Ella of Ella and Skys</a>ie. It is an informal day with the designers moving around the tables sharing with the participants. Here's Rosalie showing us how she does chain stitch and satin stitch.<br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jbRZFbVcOtM/Ujkqp1Woj6I/AAAAAAAABdY/fE7iU1VYd2Y/s1400/2013%2525201%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="586" id="blogsy-1379478108785.5393" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jbRZFbVcOtM/Ujkqp1Woj6I/AAAAAAAABdY/fE7iU1VYd2Y/s500/2013%2525201%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" width="437" /></a></div>
Debbie Magee came around to show us her cute birds on spools. And as I love pincushions, I know I will be making one of these soon (yes I did buy spool or two).<br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-4yMo7vZenyE/UjkqtlXNUfI/AAAAAAAABdg/Eh5pCgY3sZQ/s1400/2013%25252012%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="373" id="blogsy-1379478108786.938" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-4yMo7vZenyE/UjkqtlXNUfI/AAAAAAAABdg/Eh5pCgY3sZQ/s500/2013%25252012%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
There were lots of show and tell from the designers but my favourite was being able to see Rosalie's complete Best Friends Forever quilt ( which might just be on my to do list. )<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oQytCTwFHUc/UjkqyQ9M4UI/AAAAAAAABdo/d0_RtnmQiPY/s1400/2013%2525201%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="670" id="blogsy-1379478108814.2366" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oQytCTwFHUc/UjkqyQ9M4UI/AAAAAAAABdo/d0_RtnmQiPY/s500/2013%2525201%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
You can see more pictures of the event <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au/">here</a> and some of our day here on <a href="http://www.quiltersangel.com.au/">Kris's</a> blog and also on <a href="http://bubzrugz.blogspot.com.au/">Fiona's</a> blog. She managed to get a photo of the three of us (Cheryl, Fiona and myself) which I didn't but you can see us over <a href="http://bubzrugz.blogspot.com.au/">there</a>.<br />
And I have to say that Fiona did a wonderful job of tying all the bows. It looked so pretty with all the shades of pink.<br />
It was a lovely day and just what I needed.bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394243.post-79316131195256521762013-07-25T14:51:00.001+10:002013-07-25T14:51:30.965+10:00Christmas in July.My Christmas in July partner was Vickie in the Northern Territory. She sent some mysterious brown paper packages which I managed to keep until today before I was able to open them. (Well maybe there was one or two squishy pokes.) <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aA0qMF1yvm0/UfCuun8lY6I/AAAAAAAABck/R2_01U5of_M/s640/blogger-image--598489663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aA0qMF1yvm0/UfCuun8lY6I/AAAAAAAABck/R2_01U5of_M/s640/blogger-image--598489663.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>I held out for as long as I could and around lunch time I opened one to find a reindeer which jumped out gasping for air, looking very pleased to be released into the wilds of a new home. He is so cute - and one of those patterns I keep saying I must make. What a great choice for me Vickie.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-e2Ri4mQyjTM/UfCuw8xkLUI/AAAAAAAABcs/sJcsFr4p1sQ/s640/blogger-image--1776523830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-e2Ri4mQyjTM/UfCuw8xkLUI/AAAAAAAABcs/sJcsFr4p1sQ/s640/blogger-image--1776523830.jpg"></a></div>The other two parcels had the words holly and tree written on them and inside there was a Twister table topper ( another pattern I have been meaning to try) and a tree shaped pot holder. I took the photo with the top of the potholder ( where the hand goes in) but if you look in the back of the reindeer photo you might be able to make out the other side with the gorgeous fabric picturing the Twelve Days of Christmas. I love it!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WAyzhMy69Do/UfCu0N7QMCI/AAAAAAAABc0/o-s3E_9wuMw/s640/blogger-image-1166784105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WAyzhMy69Do/UfCu0N7QMCI/AAAAAAAABc0/o-s3E_9wuMw/s640/blogger-image-1166784105.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you so much Vickie, and thanks too to Cheryll for hosting the swap.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the home front there have been a few health issues and also my laptop is very sick. I am trying it keep up with things using the iPad but there are a few things I haven't worked out yet. Still, I suppose it is a start. I still haven't worked out how to put links in - I might have to come back and try to do that later. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Waving to everyone out there and hoping to catch up will you all again soon.</div>bettsylyn (Lynda)http://www.blogger.com/profile/03450931813789225897noreply@blogger.com15