I'm Just Sayin

That's right, I have a new sewing machine. Well, not new, but new to me. I am now the proud owner of an old Bernina 1230. This machine is known as a war horse and I've hoped to get one for years. However, this is not just any old 1230.

Recently Catherine Anthony, the mother of renown quilter Libby Lehamn, passed away. The machine that has come my way belonged to Catherine and I consider it a treasure. You can see her name fading on the lower right of the machine.

Do you have an older machine that you swear by?  - and still use?

The May 2010 version of the La Veta Quilt Retreat started today. One of the returning students, Marian Pierce, brought a completed quilt top of her original Rhapsody quilt based on a gypsy theme. This quilt was started at one of her previous retreats. Note the overall feel that it is a wheel, but the "roof" over the four corner applique baskets are reminiscent of the top of a gypsy wagon.

Way to go Marian!

Photo - Justin flirts with one of the town deer.

Three days ago, during the wee hours of the night, eight of our tame town deer were senselessly shot and killed. The poacher did not attempt to take them, they were simply left to rot. They were not shot for food or sustenance. The tally included one buck, five doe, and two fawns. 

I realize that deer can be a problem and nuisance, but I believe we must find ways to live in harmony with nature. The deer were here first. One of the joys of living in La Veta is seeing the deer in town. It's like the scene in the opening of the show "Northern Exposure" where the moose is sauntering through town.

Our town deer bed down and look like fake yard ornaments - only these are the real deal. The deer that were shot would not know to run from humans. I could go on, but there is no need. I just felt obligated to pay tribute to them on my blog.

Farewell to those who attended the Ricky Tims Super Quilt Seminar in Olmsted Falls. Each seminar is hard to describe in words, but it is always filled with great enthusiasm and we create memories that will last a lifetime. The volunteers from North Coast Needlers provided the much-needed logistical assistance. I snapped this photo from the passenger seat of the die-hard remnants of volunteers that stayed to send us off. We close another chapter of super quilt seminars and look forward to the next one that will be in Rocklin, CA in June, near Sacramento. For details click the seminar link. Be sure to watch the video.

Today was set up and start day for the Ricky Tims Super Quilt Seminar in Olmsted Falls, OH (Cleveland metro area). It's always fun to see the group on the first day - they are so polite and well-behaved. Then, tomorrow, all "you-know-what" breaks loose as they realize we're here to learn, but we're also here to have fun. Hello Cleveland - I love ya!