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Saturday, May 16, 2020

A Basket Full of Thanks!


This is my basket of Leader & Ender Shoo Fly Shoo blocks.

It doesn’t look like there are many in here – but they are pinned in sets of 10 – There is 122 in this basket!

Once I decide on a setting, I want to turn these into another twin-sized quilt for one of the beds at Quiltville Inn.

How long ago was it that I finished the sashed and cornerstoned version?  

No one has slept under it yet – it’s waiting to be used when Quiltville Inn opens back up when we are given the go ahead.

Found it!  March 27th!


There are so many questions swirling around in my head about that whole concept.  The whens, the hows – and what do we do with the still short supply of toilet paper?!

But just like this basket holding possibilities of turning into something wonderful – so does the future hold better days.

I want to thank everyone for all of the supportive comments after yesterday’s venting.

You lifted me when I had been feeling so hopelessly gutted.  You gave me back my sanity with your rationality.

Thank you!


More Shoo Fly Shoo blocks are being made -

While I bring this back into production.

Because Part 8 of our Unity Quilt Along is nearly ready to release on Monday and it will clear my machine sewing time allowing me to get back to those things that have spent the past couple of months waiting backstage.

I want to finish these tulip blocks while blooms are still happening around here.  And oh, you should SEE what nature is doing at the top of my driveway!


Can you smell these lilacs from here?

Click to Play:


Lilacs don’t last nearly long enough – but I plan to clip me an armful and enjoy them as long as they are around to enjoy.

Lilacs have always been my favorite – and I know when we first saw the cabin in December 3 years ago that there even WERE lilacs on the property.

We purchased in March – so it would be even a few months later before I found this gift on our first spring here.

And I am HERE to enjoy them. Not on the road in some far away place.  From first blooms to last – I’ll be here.

Another gift.


Zoey has a new favorite spot.

As the weather warms up, she has left the softness of her bed by the sliding glass door and likes reclining on the triangle shaped step landing going up from the basement studio to the kitchen.  The pine floor must feel cool to her.

And I wish I could have captured what happened with the screen door when she spied a chipmunk – not seeing the screen and charged through thinking the door was open.

Screen door went flying.  Zoey was surprised.  And so was I!

No harm done – the whole door went right back in its tracks, but I think it will be a while before she tries that again. 

It was the doggie version of a bird flying into the window.

On today’s agenda is actually to get going on piecing a BACKING for our Unity Quilt Along.  That is going to be fun – I’m including some wooops! blocks and the crazy corona fabrics I received as samples from Spoonflower.  And wait until you see the main fabric.

I showed Jason yesterday afternoon via video chat and he was left shaking his head.  LOL!


And this happened last evening by live video.

My darling niece Megan married the man of her dreams in Nampa, Idaho with my brother Scott officiating in a beautiful back yard ceremony with just a smattering of close friends and family in attendance.

It was wonderful to witness the whole thing by live video - and I am so proud of my brother for the wonderful job he did.  It's not every day a man gets to officiate at his daughter's wedding.

I am sad I couldn't be there - but so proud of these kids for sharing their hope of the future by starting their life together on the day they had planned, the world on lock down or not.
What stories they will have to tell their future children.

Megan and Sterling, we love you and miss you and wish you the best as you start your life together.

And it is a glorious Saturday. I think a long walk is in order.

How about your weekend?  What are you working on?


Quiltville Quote of the Day -

One of the benefits of home bound time out: Reevaluating what we really want from life and rediscovering who we really are and what makes us happy down to our core.

What have you found out about yourself while on this hiatus from the world?

Most of all, I have found how little it takes to make me happy -



48 comments:

  1. Being able to find joy in little things is a blessing-cherish it!

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  2. Megan's dress is beautiful. The lovely skirt overlay with lacy pieces is just yummy. Best wishes to the couple and thanks for posting this. It is nice to see something positive during this time. I didn't comment yesterday because I was just bereft that you had to be subjected to this vitriol. I wish I could believe that this Covid-19 situation is all a hoax, but my 97 year-old mother is in a nursing home and in her little "neighborhood" they now have seven confirmed cases of Covid-19 so far. We are just waiting for the other shoe to fall. It is so heartbreaking.She raised seven children and now we can't even talk to her on the phone. She's a tough ladt, and has been through a lot, and if she gets the virus, could survive. Hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. Keep your chin up, Bonnie. Hugs.

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    1. My 85 year-old aunt had it and came out just fine. 13 of the 26 patients had it. Prayers to your mom and your family.

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    2. I get the so many questions swirling in your mind about how, when to reopen. I'm on a church leadership team considering the when, how of reopening our building. Mind-boggling all that needs to be considered! The TP question, though; ask each guest to bring a roll with them. :-) Not too much to ask. I so appreciate your positive attitude.

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    3. My 96 year-old mother is in the same situation. Deafness makes phoning impossible, Covid-19 makes visiting banned and the start of dementia means she cannot understand why her children have "abandoned" her. So very sad.

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  3. Hey Bonnie, when Quiltville opens up again maybe everyone can bring a roll of tp to donate. You'll be stocked up in no time. Glad you're feeling better. We all love you.

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    1. that's what I was going to say...tell people that for now they need to bring their own...

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  4. I, too love the lilacs. I am waiting for my peonies to open. Another flower that makes me happy. I think all of us are discovering a simpler life during this shut down. I have officially retired during this & I am ok. No more commuting at 5 am- everyday is like the weekend. We are ok! ♥️

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  5. The toilet paper shortage has an easy fix for qulters...in particular, those who like string piecing....phine book pages! If that euns out and for those fortunate enough to live where there's wide open spaces....leaves! Just watch out for the poison ivy and poison oak!

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  6. Enjoy your lilacs, especially that armload you bring inside. Best smell in the world! The buds on my bushes froze just before they opened. So no purple lilacs for me. I have one white lilac, so I got a little bit of a fix.

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  7. I was thinking about you in the middle of the night last night. For some reason I wake up at 3am EVERY morning. What's with that? Anyway, when you said all the comments made you feel better it just confirmed my early morning thinking. We need people. Even if it's virtual people. Don't stew in your own juice again! Reach out. Talk to people. You are never alone even when you are all by yourself. Don't let others get ya down. It's about them, not you. xoxox

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  8. I found lots of toilet paper in the stores this week. Now to find Clorox wipes. Our family has had 2 virtual weddings during all of this. My brother in law performed both ceremonies (he's a pastor). Next up is virtual graduation next week. I miss seeing my family, since our trips were cancelled (along with hubby getting to meet our grandson for the first time, I got to meet him in January).

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  9. Enjoyed your lilacs with the buzzing bee, thank you!! I have the usual azaleas that finished blooming weeks ago here in Northern Virginia but since I bought some really unique ones over the years, I am getting a new run of colors now!! I am thankful to still be around to see them. If we are still having shortages of TP when our turn comes for retreats at quiltville we should each bring a roll!!

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  10. Lilacs don't stay long. But this Lilac has been around for 80 years! Obviously they are my favorite flower too.

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  11. I didn't comment yesterday because I figured I had nothing to add that hadn't already been said. But wanted you to know that there are probably hundreds more, if not thousands, that feel the same and just didn't comment for the same reason. Reading your blog is a very important part of my daily routine and has been for years. Many of us live vicariously through your normal daily adventures, lol!! Hugs for Zoey, Dresden, Lola and Emmy Lou!! --Gina in Missouri

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  12. Yesterday my sister took her twin Grandbabies to the beach. They got to ride the ferry and find shells on the beach and throw rocks into the Sound in Whidbey Island. The little girl had on the Elsa and Anna Frozen mask that I made for them. Did it diminish their joy? Not one lick. They think they are playing Doctor. We have a feeling that there may be a future Doctor in the house! Our little RJ at 3 1/2 years old may have found her purpose in life. All due to a mask, so keep your head held high. I will be wearing mine to protect them and their future. Love those shoe fly blocks!

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  13. Can't wait to see your creative backing solution! I'll be sewing away the day making blocks for part 7...thanks for the fun!

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  14. Congrats to the newlyweds! I love lilacs too. They are something I am looking forward to when we return to Wisconsin. They are worth thff e wait. Looking forward to the end of Unity! Will get it done before the move.

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  15. I ended up having to install expanded metal guards on all of my screen doors. The dog can see it and it also keeps them from possibly digging at the bottom of the screen.

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  16. We have had toilet paper here for about 3 weeks now so hang in there. We're still one of the hot spots on the east coast and our 'stay at home' order has been extended until June.

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  17. Oh, Bonnie. Interesting timing on yesterday's post. I had been shaking my head all day not understanding why distancing and wearing masks for the good of everyone, all of a sudden, became political. While working to sort it out I read the wonderful words of Mr. Ross. To top the day off, watching Amanapour and Company, there was an interview where this topic was addressed. One thing the author said, among others, is that "expertise is politically inconvenient". I agree that many instigators would rather stir up emotions because common sense is no fun at all. It will be interesting to watch when a vaccine becomes available. Maybe these naysayers will have time to consider the pros and cons of participating.

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  18. I just read your blog from yesterday. I feel the same as you. I would recommend you listen to "Peak Prosperity" on you tube. He has a science background and does a wonderful job of analyzing studies and giving great advice. He is totally non-political. He has even recommended supplements to keep your immune system strong (he does not sell these). As bad as this all is I always feel better everyday after I watch his updates.

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  19. Your lilacs are wonderful! Ours just started with beautiful purple buds so far. I'm doing the moda village, 2 graduation quilts, Bloomtopia, and 3 laundry basket quilts but I want start on your mystery too! Hope I have the time!

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  20. My lilacs are in bloom right outside my window as I'm sitting here reading your blog. So I guess I can smell your lilacs! Lol Have a wonderful weekend Bonnie and enjoy that armful of lilacs when you bring them in.

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  21. Great uplifting post today! Sorry you had to deal with those conspiracy accusations in yesterday's post. I loved your mask tutorial; as usual, you make everything so easy. Many of us are with you during this time of uncertainly and unrest. It's actually quite peaceful here at home in the countryside. Always keep a happy heart!

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  22. I love lilacs, but my hubby is allergic. So I get my "fix" by walking in my neighborhood and taking big whiffs of perfume. They aren't nearly out yet here in SE Mich. I got through step 3 on Unity and am now saving the rest for another time! I don't know why you are subject to such awful mail. Know that the thousands who follow you do not feel this way and stand behind you.

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  23. After reading your post yesterday, I could not agree more with what you say. I find it alarming that people can not understand the science of what is happening to us right now. Yes, we wear mask when we are out on our walks. We have not been able to go to the grocery store as our daughter believes it is just not safe for us to go into public places. We are grateful that she is willing to do our shopping for us.
    Thank you for your daily blog. I look forward to it every day. I have had the privilege of taking a couple of your classes and look forward to the day that I can take another class from you. Your are loved. Thank you for all that you do.

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  24. I love your blog. I have been using your fff mask pattern every single day since you first posted it. I can make it in my sleep, as you commented was likely to happen. I've lost count of how many I've made, but they've been shipped across the country to friends and relatives. Unfortunately I have to physically take them into the post office where the local clerks opt not to wear masks and gloves. Today I'm making them for a neighbor who must return to a mfg. job with Ford. Our local hospitalsstill need them. On behave of all I know and love, THANK YOU! BTW, I've been using coffee bag re-fasteners in my own masks, over the nose, and they work great to keep eyeglasses from fogging. If I could find a source, I'd by in bulk, perhaps on a spool, rather than one bag at a time, which necessitates keeping them in house. Anyone who doesn't realize we are in this for the long haul will need to accept and adjust eventually. Again, sending much thanks and love!

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    1. I found a source for the coffee closures, beside the coffee mill grinder. Even though it's barricaded, the bags aren't so one comes home with me. I just keep reusing it.

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  25. And, at the convocation of my daughter's college (where she's a tenured math prof), a qualified, expert scientist guest speaker, reitterated what the article you referred to on knowing your risks reported.

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  26. Oh, Bonnie, I do love your blog. Today it's rainy and I will work on squaring up my shoo fly shoo blocks and doing some cooking. I love love love my shoo fly shoo! Thank you! And God bless.

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  27. Happy to BYOTP. Was surprised to see it available at the grocery store today.

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  28. So happy you were able to shake off the "uglies" that some people bring into our lives. My brother was able to perform the wedding of his son on Friday. With all the problems it is still a joyful time if we let it be! Have a wonderful Sabbath! We will be having rain and more rain. Sunshine will have to come from inside of me.

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  29. Your lilacs look so beautiful and I’m sure a big armful in your house will make it smell beautiful, it’s a shame they don’t last longer but nice that you are able to enjoy them this year even under these circumstances.
    So pleased all the positivity from yesterday has helped , I love your blog and seeing cute ZoeyJo is a bonus, she is getting bigger whenever you picture her so pleased your screen door was fixable bless her heart.
    Keep safe
    Love and quilty hugs
    Anne xxx

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  30. So good to see people supporting you and your spirits lifting, beautiful lilacs and as always, creativity. Continue to enjoy the little things. We appreciate you.

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  31. So good to see people supporting you and your spirits lifting, beautiful lilacs and as always, creativity. Continue to enjoy the little things. We appreciate you.

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  32. Lovely blocks, all of them ;) Pretty lilacs too!

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  33. My son and his lovely bride to be (a ER nurse in Michigan) are having a backyard wedding on May 29. It will be beautiful. Blessings to all the couple's marrying in these difficult times.

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  34. I think someone else (maybe more than one someone) mentioned my first thought on the bath tissue situation--everyone bring their own. They'll be more circumspect on usage when it's their own roll.
    When I lived in the Houston area I belonged to a group which did 3 retreats a year, always at the same place. The owner lived down the road a piece, she'd come over at least once to check on us. She told us once that some other group had stolen (yes, from a retreat house) a multipack of bathroom tissue. Really low behavior, I expect better from quilters. There's always one I guess, to spoil our good reputation as generally good people.
    The bride's dress is lovely, they're such a cute couple. Small weddings held in the parlor or in the minister's study used to be quite common. Not a bad thing to get back to those, big weddings cost as much as a new car sometimes. My son's wedding was such an affair, and not our choice. The bride's mom was one-upping her own sister's efforts for HER daughter. But I'm just the Mother of the Groom--my role is to show up, look nice and smile. I'm very happy with his choice of mate, and it was a very nice wedding ceremony and reception. Maybe when things calm down a big, your newlyweds can have a big party for more people.

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  35. I just read your post from yesterday and that is exactly as I feel. We luckily live in a rural county and have only had cases and 1 death which is 1 too many but I am so frustrated at the people in our country that don't take this seriously. I am so frightened for school starting in the fall as I have 4 children and a granddaughter who are elementary teachers and they have worked so VERY hard teaching with the horrible internet we have. It is always so enlightening to read your blog post with my morning coffee. Thank you for always being there for us. Stay strong and know you are making many people happy and keeping many quilting.

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  36. i had to laugh at your zoey/screen door story and thought about years ago when my black lab, casey, flew through an open window and through the screen when he saw a squirrel. dang! none of us saw that coming.

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  37. Wonderful post today!

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  38. I am a recent new follower of yours, but since I first read of you and read what you write I felt like I've known you. You remind me of all the good people I've known in my life. I didn't respond to what you wrote on Friday but was heartened by all the support you received by many who lifted you up in their great comments and prayers. Some of my kids are distant from me even though they live close by because they look at the current situation differently than I. Yesterday I worked in my flower beds, weeding and preparing for when I can go get some plants to add to them. It has been cold but is now warm enough to plant them. I go to a very small nursery owned and run by a young woman who is trying to make a go of it. I drive about 40 minutes to go there even though I have several large nurseries where I live. I like to support small business especially businesses owned and run by women. My two favorite quilt & needlework shops are owned in each case by a mother & daughter. I feel like they are my family. Summer is always a dilemma because even though I like to sew and do other hand work I like being outside even more. It has been raining here since last night so today I will happily spend time in my sewing room. I suspect there are many, many of us who follow you who rarely speak but nonetheless care about you. We are truly blessed that you share with us your thoughts, your quilting and snippets of your life and family.

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  39. Zoey Jo and the screen door ~ had me laughing. Our Aussie, Tootsie, did the same thing but she is unfazed by the commotion and will still run right thru the screen if she sees something she must chase! It startles me every time that screen zips back into its metal roller casing! Luckily, as she gets older, it happens less often. Tootsie's 3-1/2 now.
    Thanks for sharing your blog with all of us.

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  40. I, like you, see myself as middle ground and like to look at all sides of a story. People like your writer yesterday will not take it seriously until it hits close to home and then they will be looking for help from the vey people she chastised as being sheep. Typhoid Mary was blind to the problem too. Just because something isn't seen, doesn't mean its fake. Putting others in danger just because you refuse to look at the ALL facts, is dangerous to everyone. Thank you for being you and being such a giving and loving person. As you have seen we are United behind you :) Sending my love and strength you way!

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  41. Silly Zoey!! great story, bringing back memories of my own silly furbabies adventures with windows and/or screens. And one of my Sophie kitty who loved to chase flies until she caught a bee. Poor kitty with a fat lip, and me so grateful she was not allergic like me. So looking forward to seeing the new back for current quilt-along. I feel the adventures we have assembling a backing from leftovers and other bits sometimes makes for more quilty fun even than creating the front. I know I am much more adventurous with quilt backings, and that some might be classified as more than a bit "odd", but I sure do enjoying seeing them again when I fluff my quilts

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  42. So glad you are back to you happy, upbeat self, not letting the crazies get you down. Laughed at Zoey going through the screen door; my AJ did the same thing when he saw a squirrel. So funny. Now he touches his nose to the screen before he tries to get out. He jumps up about 4 feet in the air until we let him out, yipping the whole time. No ignoring him. I've always wanted Lilacs but don't suppose they would grow well here in the Sacramento Valley. It gets too hot. Love the smell and COULD ALMOST smell them in your video. Stay well and happy.

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  43. working on making those tulip blocks would be a GREAT quilt cam!

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