Valentina's Corner

Season's Greetings

2011-12-31T18:47:00.006+02:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR, dear Friends, receive my warmest wishes for these blessed days. I hope your Christmas was merry and bright, and surrounded by those who love you, and that you are also enjoying a few days of quiet, resting, and carefree stitching- making memories with your families and friends.

It has been a long time since I last posted, and I am so sorry it turned into a much longer Blog-break than I ever anticipated. You were never far from my thoughts, however, and I wish I could have found the time to write down some of the funnier observations I was thinking of sharing with you. Believe me, I could have used a clone, or telepathic messaging in the last few months! LOL
I found myself needing to make some hard time-management decisions, and unfortunately the blog was never making it to the top ten on my daily list.

November took me by surprise: the time-demands becoming more pressing and urgent as the days got shorter. All those things that require immediate care and attention, and have a tendency to derail the best laid-out plans. If anything, this has taught me to be a wee bit more humble: I cannot possibly do everything, the way I would like or am used to doing... a big 'ouchie' on the ego, but also a letting go of a lot of expectations... And at the end, I am happy how I invested my energy and most grateful to everyone who pitched in to help me along the way. All is good and all is well: a good place to be as I say goodbye to 2011.
:)

Realizing I had less and less time available for prepping, I started focusing on getting my Camelot half-square triangles hand-stitched, as I could have them with me as I went about my day. Well--- those teeny weenies turned out to be the most worthy of stitching adversaries I have yet to encounter... You wouldn't think they would bring a grown woman to tears of frustration, boredom and exasperation--- but they did!

I have never been so challenged, or learned more about the depths of my fickle and wicked self, as I did making these 4 HST-corners: 1764 little triangles that took over the last two months of my stitching life! It was not unusual to find me stitching them at 5 am... I couldn't let these little ones taunt me for ever...
It became an obsession to finish: I needed to have my Camelot top done by Christmas or else...

Good news. On Christmas eve the top was finally assembled and basted. The boys did a spontaneous happy 'Hopscotch' dance on the quilt, what else could you do than jump from circle to circle on the floor? :)

Leave it to them to put all things in perspective. :)

And all is getting back to normal, I am feeling more and more like myself and I am happily enjoying hand-quilting: the dragon slain and the quilt a beauty. :)
I am starting to look forward to get back to my other projects once the kids get back to school in the new year.

Thank you for all the lovely emails and wishes, hoping all was well in my little corner of the world. I rather enjoyed them, and gave me a chance to get to know some of you better. Thanks for thinking of me! :)

Yes, all is well, and at the end of it all, I can honestly say, that sharing the load with friends is what it is all about! Thank you, for being in this with me, as I look forward to being there for you!

I raise my champagne glass to you, on this New Year's eve:
To my dear friends and Quilting Sisters,
Happy 2012! And May there be stitching! Lots of Stitching!
:)

with love,
Valentina

Cannot believe this is what all that fuss was about...
Seeing them now, they were kinda cute, actually!
:)

It's that special time of year!

2011-10-28T10:50:00.003+03:00

And of course I mean Amy's Bloggers' Quilt Festival! For us in Cyprus it's a long weekend and I intend to make the best out of all the wonderful quilts, quilters and their stories.
I am also looking forward to the inevitable inspiration overload :)
Thank you, Amy, for your generosity in organizing this wonderful week-long event.

I was so looking forward to sharing this quilt with you.
This is my Scrappy Dresden and it has been a long time in the finishing!
Let me tell you about it.

I started it about 10 years ago and my Dresden Plates have 22 petals each. I hand-appliqued them to their backgrounds and assembled the quilt top quite quickly, considering all the work involved. It's because I had been looking forward to hand-quilting it so much. I had brought batting with me from Canada and I soon had the quilt on my hoop. I quilted and quilted. And had a wonderful time. My cat Cleo would join me, crawling under the hoop, and purring as I quilted. Heaven! She had been a mature cat when she adopted us, and had moved with us from Canada to Cyprus.

Then, when she got sick, we continued quilting together. It was a long and difficult illness and quilting became a very special time for both of us. As you can imagine, my quilt became covered in cat hair. But I didn't mind and patiently cleaned it, considering how much comfort this quilt was already providing us both. However, to my absolute horror, I soon realized that that wasn't all cat hair; could this be what they meant by BEARDING!?! ---that awful thing described in quilt books : HORROR!
Were the polyester fibers from the batting truly traveling through the cotton fibers and showing up like long stringy 'hairs'... I didn't know what to do... and continued hand-quilting...
Eventually the sad day arrived, and these where the last stitches I did by hand on this quilt.

The quilt was put away until I could decide what do do with that bearding. It took me a long time to muster the courage to take my seam-ripper and start undoing my hand-quilting. I had managed to quilt over 3/4 of the quilt. And un-picking gave me a new respect to the strength of hand-quilted stitches. It took for ever, but it was eventually done. And I never used polyester batting again! It took another few years until one day, late spring, as I was swapping quilt-stories with a dear blog-friend, out came the Dresden top. An avid hand-quilter herself, she encouraged me to get it machine-quilted. If the problem had been the quality of the quilt-top materials, then cotton batting with scrim would do the trick. So I asked my trusted friend Irene, who does machine quilting, and she lovingly took it on.

Isn't she a beauty? And she is done!

And Cleo would love snuggling under it, of this I am sure! :)

This week we had another quilt story at home. My littlest asked me: " Ma-maaaah, can we make a quilt for my friend? It's her birthday and she is ALWAYS my friend... So all other projects got shoved to the side and out came the "36-patch" scraps. Within a few days he was the proudest boy bringing her a big wrapped gift to her birthday party... so cute! I'll never forget that grin... :)

And these are my Farmer's Wife blocks for this week: #39 Friendship and #40 Friendship Block- How appropriate, wouldn't you agree? Because without you this wouldn't be as much fun!

Farmer's Wife Blocks 39 and 40

Wishing you a lovely weekend, full of inspiration!

Valentina
:)

And here a close-up of the back of Cleo's Quilt.
The quilting is a loose overall feather...
Can't wait to wash it and see it crinkle!
:)

sixty-four teeny pieces

2011-10-21T18:46:00.002+03:00

and 4 days later... I hope you agree it was worth it :)

The basket, on the other hand, only took yesterday afternoon- but oh, how I like it!
So, yes, my little pile of hand-stitched Farmer's Wife blocks is growing and I am so loving the colours.

36 blocks, that makes it a third of the grand total!
:)

I finally managed a picture of my Basics quilt. I hope to have in the mail for New York City on monday

It really has an autumn feel to it, and the machine-quilting wasn't too bad with the walking foot. I liked it so much I would like to make one for myself. (and I believe I still have a Dahlia lying around somewhere... You'd be surprised what I have lying around! LOL)

I really like the texture and colour of this aubergine.

This week had some quilter's therapy. Yep. I needed a pep-talk and a kick in the pants and some blog-friends gave me just that. Kathinca said to me: what applique phobia?! And Danielle told me: just do it! and Tineke said 'get cracking' and Terry said 'Don't be precious about it...' and Shirley reminded me how every little helps, Una told me she loved me and Nadine showered me in XOXOXOXOXOXOXOX's
Thanks Friends, and it goes without saying: thanks to all of you that always leave me the loveliest, most encouraging comments-

So out came the 1 1/2" half-square triangles for Camelot

And today I took the time to get over my... well, what ever was stopping me for enjoying this!

:)
Life is too short!

sending you my love,
Valentina
:)

2011-10-17T18:08:00.002+03:00

Hello All!

Friday came and went, and I haven't really stopped long enough since to post my Farmer's Wife progress for week 9. It was a lovely and busy weekend and we spend most of it outside. Me, dreaming up new gardens and gathering seeds, and the boys getting lots of fresh air chasing red dragonflies. I can totally imagine a rocky hillside covered in Creeping Thyme... :)

It was so hard to take a picture, but I managed to 'hang it' from my wardrobe!
But if you press on the picture you can get a much better close-up.
Turned out nice, huh?
:)

This morning I put the last stitches in my gigantic 36-patch quilt top. And I can honestly say that I am itching to start hand-quilting it. However, it will have to wait its turn, because my Klosjes-quilt is finally getting quilted in these cooler evenings.

Farmer's Wife Blocks 28 and 30

Farmer's Wife Blocks 32 and 31

Farmer's Wife Blocks 33 and 34

Farmer's Wife Blocks 35 and 36

I am still enjoying stitching these little blocks. They are so portable! And if I take a bit to mark and cut out the pieces, then I can take them along with me and stitch when ever an opportunity presents itself.

I hope you all have such unexpected moments of stitching bliss in the coming week,

Valentina

despite...

2011-10-07T15:02:00.002+03:00

having a nasty stomach bug visit my whole family this week

a little sneak peak...
:)

Some things got done.
:)

This morning we are all at home, eating crackers and watching cartoons.

Earlier this week I finished machine quilting the Dahlia and started the binding. I really liked overall the effect and might just need to make one for myself. I think I have another 'practice' Dahlia hiding some place... :)

I still have one side to go.
It has been very slow and sweet progress, as sometimes,
I have had to stitch with someone crawled up on my lap
and watching or 'helping' with the stitches...

Tuesday morning I had a break from my nursing duties and used my time to start turning this pile of 36 patch blocks

into 5 strips of 8 blocks each. These are the ones I enjoyed working on last August. Still 4 strips to go, but so far, I really like how it's looking. I am so looking forward to hand-quilting it, this winter :)

The bug caught up with me by wednesday, and this morning I also have to contend with a runny rose... sneeze!
However, last night I was well enough to be able to put the finishing touches on these two: Farmer's Wife block 29 and 27.

Hoping you are doing better! Boy, for being sick, these kids sure are hungry!!!
:)
See you soon,
V&co.

finding my way back to normal... or not! :)

2011-09-30T17:29:00.000+03:00

Hello my friends-

Before leaving, Terry still squeezed in some time to teach me the basics of Felting. She also gave me her opinion on some quilts I was planning. This Dahlia was part of a hand-stitching class I had taught a few years back. And we were so happy to see it transform, in a matter of hours, into a beautiful quilt top for Victoria's Basics, before her departure.

Backlighting makes this Dahlia look like stained glass!

Thanks Diana for the wonderful tip of using my walking foot for machine applique.
It really worked!

I continued working on it some more this week, and started machine quilting it yesterday. It's been such a joy working to work on, and I think she is going to be a beautiful addition to someone's life in New York City.

Farmer's wife blocks are still getting happily hand-stitched around here. I seem to have found a groove that works. I mark a few blocks in advance and store them in between the corresponding pages of my book. This way when I have a chance, I stitch! :)

This week I worked on quite a few teeny weeny half-square triangles. Most of these were made 'on the go' or in the car. These made Camelot's HST feel 'normal' size in comparison, and so I resolved to spend some time this weekend to mark some more to continue Camelot.

We had lovely birthday celebrations this weekend. In my family we passed a bylaw long time ago, that birthdays are 3 day celebrations. And for the last few days the boys and I have been having fun planning a little birthday school-party for their friends this morning. There was cake, there were treat-bags, there was jelly and loads of fun!

Used a little of Terry's Block printed fabric for a centre.
The best souvenir of our wonderful visit!

My little stash of FW's keeps growing: 26! Only 75 more to go.
-but that green pinboard is not very flattering!

I was finishing this block this morning, while waiting for the boys to finish school, when we received the sad news of our great-aunt Sophia's passing away. She made me feel so special and welcomed when I first moved to Cyprus. Always insisting I sit next to her at family functions 'so she could practice her English'- and after a while she invariably would switch to French, and so forced me to practice my elemental french from school. In later years she would encourage me to speak greek and would patiently wait for me to find the right words to say. She had been an illustrious teacher, loving mother, aunt and grandmother to us all. A Kyria (lady) in the real sense of the word. She is the last of that generation to leave us. We will miss you, Yayia Fifi. May your memory be Eternal!

And last but not least, a very warm Thank you to Wendy; your emails made my day! :)

wishing you all a wonderful weekend and even though ours will be a sober one, I hope there will plenty of time for stitching.
:)

Oh I nearly forgot!
These are the two Farmer's Wife blocks that I couldn't upload last week!

Looking forward to visiting Kathinca, Marga and Nadine and seeing for their FW blocks are progressing.

A Taste of Cyprus with Terry

2011-09-23T21:09:00.001+03:00

Hello everyone,
Sorry i have been so absent, but hubby has been gone on a looooong business trip and it's been challenging to keep things rolling along smoothly. But All is Well--- I did it! (yeay for me!) And the Boys had a marvelous time. Hubby will be home tomorrow morning; in time for us to start birthday celebrations for our youngest who will be turning 5! The trick in the last weeks was for me to remember stay calm, stitch like a mad-woman when things started getting hairy--not lose my cool and keep those little active (chatty!) little (sorry, Mama, we are BIG!!!) boys engaged and to keep the routine going. Imagine, we had homework for the first time; and everything that could go wrong did! LOL What do you expect with a 4 and a 5 year old being asked to sit still and finish these tasks... oh the drama... and me just having flashbacks of homework horrors of my past and envisioning a bleak tormenting endless homework sessions in the future... It ended well. And they were so proud to take their completed work to school. And I actually finished my first of Terry's Spiral Blocks ( a.k.a. Delicious Vertigo!) If you can't beat them, Stitch- 1-2-3 Breathe 1-2-3 Stitch!

It's about 14" across
and I need to tweak a bit with the template for the block to lay a bit more flat.
But oh so enjoyable to make!

Terry is back from Alsace this week and I have been enjoying her company and friendship again. Oh my, it sounds like Alsace was incredible and her trip to the Museum of Printed Textiles in Mulhouse France an amazing experience.

Terry will be sharing all about it on her blog soon. I was fascinated as she was explaining the process to me and all she did at the workshop. Another stop we need to plan for in our 'someday soon' quilter's european tour! :)

Today I took Terry for a "taste of Cyprus": through the Troodos mountains to Paphos and back to Nicosia via Limassol taking the scenic route.

In Paphos we visited the House of Dionysios and I got to take some pictures of the mosaic floors, I had been wanting to share with you for quite some time. Talk about Antique designs!

Isn't it amazing?

Clamshells with a twist!

Even my Farmer's Wife blocks got in on the action, :)

Blogger is being a royal pain. So (stitch 123-breathe-123...) I will try to upload these unto Flickr if you want to see my other 2 blocks for this week. And Please, forgive me if I haven't answered your comments and emails. I think I have a virus that is not letting me see my gmail. But help is arriving tomorrow!
:)
Looking forward to visiting Kathinca, Marga and Nadine and seeing for their FW blocks are progressing.

I wish you a lovely weekend, with plenty of stitching and fun times,
Valentina ( and Terry! she's waving! :)

2011-09-16T16:57:00.000+03:00

hello friends!

I wasn't sure I'd be able to post at all, but here is a really quick one to share this week's progress on Farmer's Wife.

:)

It's been busy, but I look forward to slowing down this weekend. I need to recharge my batteries and look forward to a bit of hand-quiling.

Sending you my love,
Valentina

Going 'round with Terry

2011-09-09T22:23:00.002+03:00

It has been such a delight to share these last few days with Terry: there has been sharing, there has been laughing, there certainly has been stitching, and there has been plenty of adventure.

Terry, it's so wonderful having you around!

Tomorrow she leaves for her next chapter in this long trip of hers, but we already have so many plans for her return in two weeks time.

And so before you even ask: yes, I confess. I am weak and fickle and I can't wait to start making Terry's Spiral circle block, tonight. I have been trying so hard to resist, but when I saw it yesterday, close up and personal--- swoon! You will be happy to know, that I resisted for almost 24 hours... One more Project, V?! Okay, so who needs sleep. :)

The boys have started school and Terry has been a great help with them, telling them all about Billabongs, Cockatoos, Galah, Goannas and Kangaroos, while I tried to get that breakfast into them.

Famagusta Gate in Old Nicosia

This morning we went for a walk in Old Nicosia, and we had a fabulous time. Even for me, there is always new things to discover.

A traditional door in Old Nicosia.
This building, like many in the old town, is patiently awaiting
loving renovation.

The highlight was our visit to the House of Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios An ethnological museum from the time of the Ottomans.

taking a breather in the coolness of the inner courtyard

The tv room
:)

The house dates from 1793, and houses some spectacular needlework. Terry and I were in awe of the intricacy of the work. And here are some examples we would like to share.

The lady of the house would have been dressed like this

the collar

the sleeves

And these lace jasmine blossoms edging the head dress-
talk about impossibly delicate...

Laced garments part of an ancient dowry

and a quilt

It was an incredible experience, impossible to forget. Thanks Terry!

I know it is late in the day, and I hope Kathinca, Marga and Nadine don't mind, but I did manage to make another 4 Farmer's Wife blocks this week. This brings me to my first dozen, and that means only 99 more to go! :)

I have been enjoying them so much and look forward to next week's harvest.

Have a lovely weekend, and thanks for your visits. I am so looking forward to some 'me' time next week when I am planning some serious catching up time with you, my dear blogfriends! See you soon!

a little more of Prague

2011-09-06T14:18:00.000+03:00

I just love Mucha's famous Art Nouveau prints

Not a lot of stitching going on around here, and I am missing it. But I hope to do something about that this afternoon.

The boys are happy about having started school yesterday. And I am very excited preparing for the arrival of Terry from Australia tomorrow morning. She's on her way to Alsace to the great European Patchwork Meeting in France, and is taking a little breather with me, in Cyprus, before continuing her journey. And as you can imagine, I am so excited in having the opportunity of meeting another Blog friend. (because as you well know, I dream of meeting all of you! :) up close and personal, stitching together and enjoying our friendships...)

And maybe we could meet in Prague... :)

Old Prague from the Charles bridge tower

Let me show you some more pictures.
Want to come along for a stroll? :)

Looking up will taking a stroll down Pariska (Paris) Avenue

Enjoying the Vltava river and the views of the Castle on the hill

the details... oh the details!

And I still have a few more to share.

Until then I hope you enjoy your stitching!

If only...

2011-09-02T17:54:00.001+03:00

... we could have had a few more days in Prague...

Prague is beautiful, unassumingly elegant, and leaves you feeling like a better- more cultured version of yourself. We enjoyed our walks, went to concerts, sat and enjoyed ourselves in idyllic cafe's and my camera never stopped: every corner turned, and another "Ah!-sigh-click!"---

For someone who had always described herself as a bit of a Bohemian at heart, to actually find myself in the geographical centre of Bohemia, was something else. :)
Imagine, I even have a street I could easily call my own...

I promise I will share more pictures in the days to come.

It was lovely to spend time as a couple, and it was hard for both of us to tear ourselves away and get back to reality. But we were missing the boys and promised ourselves to be back soon, with them, and stay longer. Four days just wasn't enough.

Getting back from Cloud Nine did not grace us with a soft landing. This week has been a crazy whirlwind: from having be rudely re-introduced to the stresses everyday drama, while attempting to make the best out of the last week of summer holiday, to wrapping our heads around the fact that September is here, and school starts next week. But somehow things always fall into place. And there is a sense of comfort knowing soon we will be enjoying our new routines. Life goes on, too quickly. And this coming school year is promising to bring some big changes to our little family. So maybe we are reluctant as parents, of seeing our boys growing up so fast. Maybe we are realizing that our parents need us more and more. Maybe it is knowing that we need to make time as a couple to be able to face all these challenges together. Focusing on what's important, being grateful for what we have, taking risks that might make a difference in the future and holding on to each other. And actively refusing to be suck into the negativity and unnecessary drama of others. I am taking a stance against stress! Beware---I have got sharp needles and I know how to use them! :)

Speaking of which, I have a few things to share:
I decided to take Camelot half-square triangles with me to Prague. It has been slow progress, but I am liking the results.

I also can report on a Dear Jane block: I have fallen a bit behind, but have found my way back to it, already making templates for the next few blocks.

It has been fun doing progress report with Kathinca and Marga on Fridays. With their encouragement and inspiration ( you should see their blocks: wow!) I actually managed 4 blocks this week for the Farmer's Wife Quilt-along. They are both such accomplished stitchers and are moving so swiftly, it leaves me wanting more! :)

And I am so happy to tell you that Nadine has joined us, from her extended get-away in Spain, this fall. We both decided that this was the project we had been saving our shirtings for, and so far, it seems a good decision.

Gotta run. But promise myself to breathe in deeply, and smile. Life is too short, and up to us to make it beautiful. sigh...

:)

2011-08-26T06:10:00.009+03:00

Just a quick hello from Prague to post my Farmer's wife progress for this week.

Block 4 and 6 were easy enough for me to be able to stitch them before leaving on holiday.

I am so pleased with the nautical weathered look so far.

It has been fun doing progress report with Kathinca and Marga, and I look forward to catching up to them when I get back.

Hoping you are all having a great time and have a fun weekend planned ahead!

Kisses from Prague,
Valentina and her handsome beloved.
:)

Summer fun

2011-08-23T11:22:00.001+03:00

escaping the heat of Nicosia
and going to the forests of Troodos

There's been splashing in cool pools and hiking up and down mountains. And it has been a lot of fun and adventure. But Mama and Dad are tired! ...and need a quiet break, only for a few days, in Prague...
Yes, we'll bring you lots of presents, and yes, you'll have lots of fun at Yayia's (grandma)...
:)

Enjoying the beautiful nature trails in the Troodos Mountains.

Oh I cannot tell you how I am looking forward to this 4 day get-away: My camera is packed, I have my walking shoes on, and a good book in my bag... and Hubby all to myself!

It was a great incentive to get my 36-patch blocks done.

If you are interested, you can see all of them on my Flickr set. Okay, I still have 2 to go from the 72, but I always like to leave some blocks till after I lay them all out. Being a king size quilt, there might be some colours that want a bit more support, and having some unfinished blocks gives me that option.
I also had a brainwave for the centre of the quilt. I took an orphan block from a project I decided long ago no longer to pursue, and I think that after some tweaking it might just work.

what do you think?

I send you my love, as always, and look forward to sharing Prague with you.
Now, I'm off!

:)

Valentina

Late summers in the mountain villages
enjoying the grapes, figs and cold watermelons...

Sad news and new beginnings

2011-08-19T08:55:00.003+03:00

I am shocked and heartbroken at the news of Marieke's passing away. We shared the Klosjes quilt journey together and many One Flower Wednesdays. We also shared many stories about raising young boys and will never forget seeing a picture of her Klosjes quilt in Quilt&Zo magazine. I was so proud of her. Imagine this was just her second quilt!
Marieke... like we say in the eastern orthodox church: May your Memory Be Eternal. And through your quilts, the work of your hands, I hope comfort will be imparted to your husband and sons.

This past week has been such a buzz of excitement with Nadine, Elena and Kathinca in planning and getting ready for Farmer's wife. So after deciding on fabrics, preparing of templates and late night piecing, I have my first two blocks. Kathinca had graciously invited me to join her and Marga to report our progress on Fridays. But I never thought I would be showing them to you, this morning, under such sad circumstances. But seeing that I had chosen dutch colours and 2 boys for the second block, I can only say: Marieke, these are for you!

I will close the comments out of respect, and hope you can instead go provide some quilter's comfort to Marieke's husband and sons here.

I am so grateful to have friends like you, and days like this makes quilting so much more relevant and important.

Summer days

2011-08-16T09:03:00.000+03:00

Despite the bumpy start, this summer is turning out to be one to remember. The boys do not start school for another 3 weeks and with the soaring temperatures here in Cyprus, there is still a lot of summer to be had.
:)
I am well, and very happy- Thanks again for all the lovely emails and comments. Your love, concern, friendship (and countless jokes!) mean the world to me. :)
So, where have I been and what have I been up to? Plenty!

Thanks to some friends that always seem to get me into trouble-- yes, YOU! :), and me being in a fragile convalescent state (ahum! ok, maybe I am exaggerating a wee bit... :) I have fallen into temptation.
...

Despite my better judgement and steadfast resolve, I have found myself working obsessively on a new project- blush blush...
The problem is that I have been having way to much fun to be repentant, and have been having a great time working on my sewing machine again. It's been like being on Quilting Holiday! LOL

I think, I better show you:

These are some of the 36-patch blocks I have been making through Amanda Jean's Quilt-Along. I made the mistake of reading through her very interesting assembly tips, and it became a case of : humm, I need to try this... Famous last words!
She encouraged us to go through our stash ruthlessly, at least that is how I interpreted it. And so my naughty streak took over and before you know it, I was slashing irreverently through my Den Haan & Wagenmaker Dutch Chintzes. Yes, that I have been keeping in the Holy of Holies section of my stash, you know that place... LOL

Oh, but it was so liberating and so much fun. I had been collecting these fabrics for ages, and I am so happy that I allowed myself to see them in a new light; like combined with stripes, polka dots and funky prints.

I soon realized that I could cut an extra strip of fabric and make a second, smaller 16-patch identical quilt. The perfect gift for Nadine, who will be celebrating a very special birthday in december. :)
The funny thing is that many of these fabrics we either bought together last year in Provence or swooned over. So having her be part of the process has been a gift that keeps on giving. :) And she's happy!

There is also a certain Farmer's wife that has been making an appearance around here. My friend Elena brought it up, I refused and gave her a lecture... sorry! :) Michelle caught me off guard with her blocks. I swooned. Amanda and Angela have been having the QuiltAlong. I had been doing my best to ignore it. Then the Flickr Group, which I have been avoiding... So leave it to Nadine to start sending me pictures! Soon Book Depository delivered the book for free, I fall in love with the cute size of it: it's square and about 1 1/2 the size of a CD... ooohh! Then Kathinca sweetly invites me to join her and Marga to report of fridays... and I can't stop dreaming of what flavour I would like this quilt to have...

What is a girl to do? If you can't fight them, join them, I say!
:)

Which means that from straying I now need even more resolve not to abandon 'Jane', 'Camelot', and 'In my Garden'... oh yes, and my kids! :)

speaking of kids, last week I spend quite some time with my perpetual summer project: my charm hexies. The centre star is done, but not completely stitched together yet. This has made it easier to take along. And these Hexies have gotten around! :)
Now I am stitching 'white' hexies around the outer diamonds, like this.

Once I am done with this part, I hope to stitch them all up into a giant hexagon. I have plenty of charm hexies left, which will fill the background and give me a square quilt. Hopefully by next summer. :)

Sending you my love, and loooots of hot summer sun for those of you that feel you might have not gotten your fill,
Valentina
:)

By the way: have I ever shown you this? The Ultimate Patchworker's floor! Can you imagine? :)

floor in a greek souvlaki and gyro place in the food court at the Mall!

Stitching Camelot

2011-07-22T11:09:00.001+03:00

Hoping that uploading this post will not be thwarted by the rolling blackouts we are still experiencing all over Cyprus, so I will make this a quick one.
I have been home for a week, and apart from the drawback of experiencing a painful allergic reaction to one of the medications I was sent home with, I am recovering and feeling more like myself every day.
Thanks for all your well wishes and gorgeous e-cards, I am so grateful to have friends like you. :)
Even though I still feel wobbly, I have been stitching to my heart's content. This has not been the summer I was expecting, but all things considered I have rested and I am stitching; so I am not complaining, :)
Ok, ready for a "ta-daaaa" ? Here's Camelot!

Not the best of pictures, but you get the gist! All 16 Camelot blocks and connector squares have been carefully hand-stitched into place, and I love the result.
I have been cutting tiny triangles from my left over scraps, and have been stitching these little cuties:

These Half-square triangles that will be 1 1/2" squares when finally stitched together.

Thank you for visiting my little stitching corner, and looking out for me, :)
as always, I send you my love,
Valentina

Maybe a better picture, and the colours more true, flapping in the sea-breeze... LOL
:)

Reflecting...

2011-07-12T10:53:00.003+03:00

I am on an unexpected break, connected to an IV drip. A nasty Strep bug has sent me to hospital last thursday. Thank God, the worse is over and I was admitted right on time. Now the soaring fevers are gone, my kids think all these tubes coming out of me are cool, and I am making the best of my alone time, enjoying my private room and catching up on my naps. :)
Not the vacation I was hoping for, however a great time evaluate things and be grateful for the happy domestic chaos that is my life.
Too bad I cannot stitch! :) However, there has been lots of quilt-y plans and things to report.
And I have a new appreciation for pin-cushions! :)
-- as you can imagine 'parking my needle' will never be the same...
:)

I, like all of you, I'm sure, have a file marked: Inspiration. Here I collect ideas of designs and colour-combo's that I would some day like to translate into quilts of my own. I have been revisiting this file these days, on my laptop, since I cannot do much else, and notice the trends that emerge in my 'likes' and my 'OMG's... I think it is important to notice that there are designs that are timeless and colours that keep recurring. I love trendy quilts, you know I do, and I love playing around with colour, however there are the classics, those quilts that I have to make. Many of which are simple geometric designs and very Amish in flavour, so I expect a shift for fall and winter.

The other thing I have to share are thoughts on my work schedule. The experiment of this year is working. Last year I tried: monday is for this, tuesday that, and who can forget wednesdays hexies! however, it doesn't work for me, and my time demands. I realized I need to focus on one project at the time. This is how I work best, and fastest. This is how Klosjes got done, and this is how I was able to stay focused on Camelot. There are many minor projects that flutter in and out of the main focus. This makes for a very boring blog, I know. But it makes for a happy quilter, as I feel I am moving forward in my stitching.

Lazy stitching by the sea-side: a wedding gift for a special friend.
the other images are from their magical wedding celebration

This has also made me look at my stash differently: Organizing according to colour and style. As you all know, I am a scrappy quilter. I rarely buy yardage, and rarely meet a fatquarter I don't like. But I have stopped trying to adopt all the little lonely fatquarters of the world. These days they only come home with me if they can strengthen the cast at home, are in a colour that I do not already have, or can add that 'je ne sais quoi' to a quilt. This has had some very interesting results. A far more effective and harder working stash, and an interesting new way of choosing fabrics for new projects. Now I use the 'basket' method'. Once I decide the flavour I want my new quilt to have, I go shopping in my stash. I load my basket with the colours I would like to use. If there are colours, textures or yardage missing, I enjoy shopping for them. But what I have noticed is that my projects have more cohesion and internal harmony, as all the colours already live happily in their basket until the end of the project in question. Then they move back to the main stash or to their designated scrap bin.

I have also come to embrace my shift towards hand-piecing. Like most of you know, these days I need to be portable, doing most of my stitching around my kids' activities. I like the pace of it, and I have become more precise in some ways and much more forgiving in others. Nothing like hand-stitching to bring you back to the basics. And for me, it is has meant a deeper savouring of our craft. My quilts have always been stitched diaries of my everyday experience. How much more now that they travel with me through the mundane and extraordinary. Teaching me that 'every stitch counts', and that 'slow and steady wins the race'. But most importantly, it has thought me to evaluate if this is a quilt I want to commit my time and energy to... The butterfly has turned into a caterpillar, and I like it! Because now, instead of me being the butterfly, my quilts are.

Camelot is at the point of getting assembled. Dear Jane is being enjoyed on the side, and 'In my Garden' needs some attentive TLC. My summer plan was to dust my charm hexies off the shelf and press for the finish, since I am not far from the final assembly there as well. So I am looking forward to being discharged in a few more days and take up needle and thread again.

Cyprus is in the midst of national mourning due to the tragedy that happened yesterday. We are in shock as a nation and grieving the loss of life and ready to face the sacrifices of restricted electricity and water in hot summer ahead.

So, this puts everything in perspective, doesn't it?
Thinking of you,
Valentina

Oh June...

2011-06-28T09:41:00.000+03:00

Where have you gone? :)

There were parties, end of school celebrations, little stars strutting their stuff on stage, and plenty of last minute quilt making.

The boys' teachers really deserve a thousand stitches each, and I was so glad my cramming payed off...
I got 2 A+ for my finals, and the boys were so proud when they presented the quilts to their teachers: Pointing out fabrics and explaining colour-selection... Oh, I was so proud of them!
:)

Also in the midst of the chaos those creative juices did not disappoint. This little IKEA LED lamp was transformed into the perfect quilter's companion, with pincushion base and everything! I am still surprised how it all came together and can't wait to make one for myself.

I started my Contemporary Jane. And the Camelot blocks have been set into their backgrounds. :) Can't wait to see them come together...

It is great to recount some of the stitching that was done in June, despite the whirlwind around here.
I am off the to beach for a few days to mark the official start to our summer holidays and for much needed rest and unplugging. And hope to be back soon, so I can finally do some web-surfing of my own and catch-up with you, dear friends.
Enjoy your week, whatever and wherever you are, and let there be stitching!
xox
Valentina

The Jacarandas of Nicosia

2011-05-31T19:00:00.000+03:00

Nicosia boasts of many flowering trees gracing its streets and avenues, but in my humble opinion no tree does more to bring a smile on one's face as the periwinkle blue of the majestic Jacaranda. And this year they are more breathtaking than usual, maybe because of a cooler May.

I decided to take my camera along this afternoon on my way to pick up the kids from school, and I am so glad I did, as I really wanted to share their beauty with you, :)

And on the stitching front I am sad to say that I have finished piecing my Camelot blocks.

Seriously, I have been savouring each stitch- and have a strong suspicion I might just have to start another one in the future!
The piecing to the backgrounds is going well and I hope to have a few more done before I show you, :)
Hoping you are having a great week,
Valentina
:)

ps a special 'xox' for someone in South Africa

Teddy is sick, Mama...

2011-05-26T20:03:00.002+03:00

...and he needs a quilt.
What to say to such a request. Afterall that's what Mama does.
..and teddy he deserves a quilt. what quilt can you make for someone who brings such comfort and companionship! Teddy takes the night-watch so mama can sleep. And mama needs her sleep. Besides who else understands what the last 5 years have been... he started looking like this, and after being taken all over the place,

which does have some perks...

...he now looks like this...

I can relate.

Okay, this means Bunny needs a quilt too. We can't have that!

So I Gotta get to work, people!

So this morning, this has become my priority. Taking a distance from decisions that have been consuming me this week... what background for Camelot?!
I had chosen the first, but then allowed doubt to creep in, and so after weeks of indecision and almost too much inspiration, it came down to these three:

After much internal debate and resorting to seek advice from dear friends, I can argue the case for all three, but at the end it came down to this: I don't have enough of 2 or 3, and would always be left wondering how it would be with the grey. I was dreaming of the grey when I was making my blocks... I needed to follow my first instinct... however the dilemma did teach me a lot. Which actually has a lot to do with 'playing'. I had such fun playing on my little quilts, and realized I have been doing too much 'serious' quilting of late... Need more play, and being at the sewing machine again was such fun:
You think?
:)

And look what I found as backing!

And Bunny-boy was so happy with his! He has been carting Bunny and Quilt all afternoon- Bunny finally got a bit of a break while boy was watching some Scooby-doo, :)

Being a nice day, I was also able to do a bit of a wash:

our lattice quilt

and snowball (really, one of our winter-quilts that likes to hang around longer than our flannel ones!)

I really enjoyed my stitching day today, as you can probably tell ---

Music provided by Sade: my fav's today; great use of colour in the video's if you are into that sort of thing, by the way... :)
By your side, King of Sorrow, and Babyfather--

Enjoy, what ever you need to do today... Maybe Teddy being sick was what we all needed! :)

Sending smiles your way, as always!
Valentina
:)

a week in May...

2011-05-21T22:00:00.000+03:00

...that included cupcakes and Birthday cake: Our eldest turned 5!

...severe dust storms that had me catching up on my indoor gardening: what else is there to do when you are not allowed out?! :)

It was slow, due to the flaring up of my spring allergies, but who cares, really?

Two more Camelots, with a very special patch received from a fellow island-girl...

Sandra, it's the beach scene in pinks and yellows, and the patch is bottom centre towards the right! :)

Thank you soooo much, dear friend!

Also great to know is that Liz and a friend set up a Flickr group for Camelot. This will be a great place to discuss fabric selection and be inspired ( and encouraged as some of the block will take you to the limits of your sanity... breathe in- breathe out... I'm ok--- besides I only have 2 more to go... and I will resist the urge to start a new one until this one is done... Breathe...)

And today, the skies were clear again and we headed off to a family wedding...

It was beautiful, the boys were handsome and Mama was happy in her new summer dress...

What else would a girl want? ...perhaps some more time to squeeze in as many visits to the Bloggers' Quilt Festival as I can? There is just so much inspiration, and I still have quite a few to cover: 631 entries this Spring!

Hoping you are all having a great weekend,

Valentina

Bloggers' Quilt Festival Spring 2011

2011-05-14T15:52:00.001+03:00

Thank You, Amy for once again inviting us to participate in this amazing event.
I am so excited to visit fellow bloggers from all over the world, in the course of the next week and to learn more about their quilts, their stories and their blogs. This festival of Quilts always makes me so happy to be a quilter and to be able to share our passion for quilting in this amazing way!

This spring I want to share an 'oldie but goodie' with you. I made this quilt in 2003, to mark my parents 35th wedding anniversary. My mom and dad are so proud of this quilt and only put it on their King sized bed from time to time to mark special occasions. (...or when special visitors come around and the quilt gets taken out of the cedar chest and ceremoniously displayed in conjunction with the latest pictures of their grandchildren.

I have to admit, this is still one of the best feelings in the world and it is right up there with those 10's ( A+ 's) and wonky ashtrays that were so proudly brought home as a child.

This is one of the first quilts that I ever completed. And those of you that have seen my Klosjes quilt will see a lot of similarities in design, colour and even the same border-fabric used. The centre medallion is paper pieced (I had not done this before and had no idea what I was in for!), and it was was on this quilt that I really learned to hand-Quilt.

Thank You, Mami y Papi, for always believing I could do anything I put my mind and effort to. And thank you for always encouraging and cheering me on, ( ...and giving me a stiff push, when I needed it!)

Your Daughter that misses you and loves you,
Valita

All these pictures where taken last January in Aruba, when we were visiting home for the Holidays.

And if you are interested in last year's entry, Baba's quilt, I need to confess that it is still being Quilted...
:)

Enjoy the Festival!!!
:)

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T19:24:00.000+03:00

Wishing you joy

and some play time!

with Love, Valentina

(who's being spoiled rotten!)

Charmed by Camelot

2011-05-06T14:26:00.002+03:00

Yes, I am. And I am really enjoying each and every block...

We had a lovely stay in the mountains after Easter, and while the boys played, biked, ran, and had fun splashing, uhhm, sorry, washing the car, I had some time to piece, which has become my favourite Camelot block to date.

We also made it to the sea-side and it was so much fun seeing the boys being boys, hurling endless pebbles into the ocean, while mom and dad were able to catch their breath from all this unbridled energy 4 year old boys are oh-so notorious for... ex*haus*ting... (*they*were*driving*me* krayzee!!!) Love them. oh yes, I do! :)

This block had some challenging curves, but thanks to my now intimate relationship with my seam-ripper, it all came together beautifully at the end. Phew!

Thanks to my favourite british friend, I was able to enjoy the Royal Wedding in style. Of course there was tea! And cucumber sandwiches- and Victoria sponge cake with strawberries and cream...

And I was delighted to finish this block while waiting for the wedding to start... a fun way to mark the day. And what did you think of my little flag? Will become my commemorative pincushion! ok, but did you see that dress! and he looked so handsome, and please can I have some more Victoria sponge? :) Thanks Elena! Unforgettable.

This week was so nice to have the boys back at school in the mornings. Catching my breath and trying to get back to some kind of routine. Ok- I could have done without the burning/itchy eyes from allergies... but what to do... Stitch! :)
It has been much worst in years past, so I am counting my blessings this year. okay- I stabbed myself once to many... LOL but how could I resist, when there are such blocks...

This one even has a bit of Den Haan & Wagenmaker Dutch Chintz among all this Liberty of London. Love them...

I have been enjoying a bit of Jane, Jane Austen, Persuasion this time- while I prepare myself to start Dear Jane... :) I found a great Audio version, which is a lovely companion as I cut and prepared the final Camelot blocks. But I can't resist to stop working at times, and reading along... :) Something so soothing to be read to, isn't it?

And V, your little block is in the mail! Hope you like it--Thanks for thinking of me!

xx V.

Klosjes and Camelot 'in my Garden' with Dear Jane

2011-04-16T19:40:00.002+03:00

What a week: 'Klosjes' got basted, more Camelot blocks got prepped, Charm hexies got dusted off the shelf, I received my long-awaited first BOM (ever!) from Dorry in Holland and my backgrounds for Dear Jane arrived... and we had 2 kiddy birthday parties to attend. ( and my quilt for Japan!)
I'm tired.
:)

and happy!
and I think this is going to be a long post. (while 'they' take a nap...)

Ok, Klosjes. I am so happy with how it has turned out. And reading your comments was like pinching myself- realizing what it all means. Thank you again for being such a HUGE part of it!
This morning I finally set up my quilting station ( at the back of the arm-chair) and put it the first few stitches in. Oh- it feels sooo great to be quilting again! So this is where I will be in the evenings. :)

I decided on Natural colour quilting thread, lightweight cotton batting, and a lovely Delft Blue backing. It will be quilted 'in the ditch' outlining the Klosjes. I will let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, there has been Camelot. Oh, swooooon...

I got the this Trish Harper pattern from Liz. Visit her to see some exquisite pictures of this quilt.
I am still not sure about my background, but love what Shirley is doing with hers...
Una has been drafting her own blocks from the George III quilt that stole our hearts last year at the V&A exhibition.

picture of the original King George III quilt found here

Please visit Una for a much better explanation and to admire her blocks.
I also found out this week that Marta has been drafting the blocks in their original tiny size.
I have resisted jumping into this delicious temptation... so far... :)

I am enjoying my Camelot so very much. I have been struggling with the curvy parts, but I have been learning- while enjoying myself tremendously. I am making mine using my little stack of rainbow Liberties.

(My first ever purchase from Purl Soho, which was a dreamy experience in and of itself!)
So, block 1 got carefully hand-stitched using the first Liberty in the stack, ect. I am enjoying the challenge of picking the colours and well...

Meet block 1

It has been quite hazy today and so I promise better pictures when the blocks are nicely pressed and stitched into their background. I can't wait, :).

On wednesday afternoon I spent some quality time with my hexies. I will report on them next wednesday.
On thursday I got a package in the mail from Holland. My Anni Downs 'In my Garden' BOM that Danielle has been stitching for Dorry. I am so happy to be doing this with Daan and Ria. One of my quilting resolutions this year is to get over my irrational fear of applique. I believe that the relaxed design of this quilt is going to help me to focus and get comfortable with the stitching. I have been enjoying the early morning light to do this... :)

Oh my dear, Jane...
Years ago I started a Jane Stickle Quilt. But I had no real plan or vision, and dropped it after only a few blocks.
Now the time seems right to try again. But I have been struggling with Dear Jane. Settling on one particular style or colour scheme is proving to be very hard. And yet, knowing that this time around I would like to get past the first row, I am savouring this challenge as part of my Dear Jane Journey. I have joined Jovita and a group of her friends to make a Contemporary Jane, and am really looking forward to all the things that Jane is going to be teaching me. Any suggestions from those of you that have gone through this Journey already, are very welcome!

Sorry for the long post. But it was now or never. The boys are on Easter holidays for 2 weeks, and so I don't know how much I might be able to post in the weeks to come between church services next week and a possible stay in the mountains after Easter. But I will do my best to be back as often as I can.

I have to let you know that I am finally getting this post done as my kids are entranced watching Fantasia for the first time! I had to share that bit of magic with you! :)

Hoping you are enjoying your stitching as much as I am,
Valentina
:)

With a little help from my friends!

2011-04-08T13:12:00.002+03:00

I am flying right now, my heart is beating soooo fast: I just finished basting my last corner unto my quilt... had to tell you, right away...Okay it isn't finished: I need to actually stitch those borders together, but I couldn't resist taking a picture for you... O my Goodness: I have a Klosjes QUILT!
This week has been a roller-coaster ride: It all started with klosje number 720. I was hoping to savour the moment and decided to make it special:

The moment was fleeting, but I found myself really smiling remembering all the funny places where I have made Klosjes over the past year...

Klosje 720!

Last one attached to Corner number 4...

Celebration!!!

... and immediately rewarded myself with by starting Camelot! More on that to come... :)

That means I had to find the right red for the border: Okay. I went for the one that gave me goosebumps as opposed to the one that was just perfect... Now, how to proceed...

Basting the corners was hard because of all that Bias stretch from the halfsquare triangles. So with resolve I decided to "fake it till I make it" ( my heart was pounding, I felt so unsure, period cramps, coldsweats and feeling like running away and hiding in a cave and take Camelot with me, of course! LOL) so despite all that, I tried to keep calm and carry on... I placed the pieces on my kitchen floor (which happened to be clean) and the floor tiles helped me to make sure it was square. I guessed how big the red border had to be, cut it and then realized that machine basting would be best (needle at 5.0). I found the centers of the each corner and matched it to the borders and machine basted from the centers out: and I couldn't believe my eyes,

it was actually working...

and so: voila!!!

Here she is! All 3688 pieces of her!

It all fits! the quilt is a bit shy of 2m square, and now I have to focus on actually hand-stitching the corners down... once I come down back to earth... and then we'll get a better picture! :)
Yippie!

Wanted to keep you guys up to date, because I LOOOOOOOVE you! And cannot thank you enough for all the support and encouragement you keep giving me...
xox
V.

2011-04-01T22:57:00.001+03:00

Spring has sprung!

the poppies taking their rightful place in the olive groves
:)

Corner #3!!!

And there was cake!
:)

Hoping your week was a happy as mine!

Klosjes!

2011-03-26T09:36:00.000+02:00

After being at odds with my Klosjes last week, this week we kissed and made up. I kept being lured away by all the new projects dancing around in my head and haunting my dreams since the inspiration binge in Holland. :)

Our love is back and stronger than ever, and we were inseparable again this week.

The result is that I finished my second corner and am well on my way to finish the third.

This week we enjoyed a lot of fresh air as a family-yesterday was a national holiday- and had fun finding the first spring blooms in the fields. And we even managed to convince our kite the go up (long enough to get a picture!) despite the little whispers of breeze.

My heart jumped at finding a wild grape-hyacinth and spotting the first of the wild poppies among the tall grass.

The wild Thyme bushes filled with new growth

I had to take a break from machine quilting my quilt for Japan as I felt strain on my shoulder and wrist earlier this week. I am not happy with how it is turning out, but keep telling myself that comfort has very little to do with aesthetics. So I decided to put my walking-foot on my machine and finish quilting it in straight lines. You'll let me know what you think.

I hope you are having a wonderful weekend and that it includes some happy stitching. For us, our 4 year olds' social calendar is booked solid until tuesday with kids' birthday parties "Cyprus-style". Wish me luck-- I plan to break protocol and sneak in some stitching!!!

Valentina

And it seems my new allergy meds are doing their job!
:)

Quilts needed for Japan

2011-03-19T16:12:00.001+02:00

Please, friends: if you haven't already, visit Janet. She has information on how we as quilters can help the relief effort in Japan.
I will be putting my Klosjes aside for a little bit and start making one. They need our quilts; new or used.

while searching for fabrics I came across this lonely top
and just knew her time had come to shine and bring comfort.
Now it is basted and I will start machine quilting it this afternoon.

Jinny Beyer workshop in Sebaldeburen, The Netherlands

2011-03-18T17:51:00.001+02:00

I am back!

Okay I was back sunday night but it took a little longer for all of me to come back down to earth.

It was fantastic, it was exhausting, it was overwhelming, it was everything and more I had hoped for...

Imagine my delight when I got seated next to Inge, a fellow quilter who was returning home to Holland after spending a few weeks vacationing in Cyprus. She was giggling when she introduced herself saying: I knew you were a Quilter the moment I saw your bag. Huh? But when you took out your Hexies... LOL
Inge, it was so wonderful meeting you, and I know we'll see each other again. And I can't wait for you to start blogging!!!
:)

I even got to make some hexies in the train!

Spending time with my Sis & my nieces was so much fun...
What is it about girls!
:)

I loved the signs of spring everywhere, but that didn't stop me from feeling soooo cold!
:)

Star-struck... Jinny Beyer really is a Master-teacher and Master Quilter.
I felt so honoured to be in her class.

the presentations and the classes were so incredibly professional.
As a teacher I learned just as much about teaching, as I did as a student.

we were kept busy-busy-busy
Right, Ria?

And by Saturday afternoon I was begging for mercy!!!

the classes were extremely hands-on,
and I will share with you what I got from them when my head stops spinning...

I actually cried when I saw Day Lillies.
This quilt has to be one of my all time favourites.
and yes, I was allowed to touch it!
:)

Still star-struck, but at least we were able to joke about it!
:)

One of my dreams going to the workshop was to see Jinny stitch.

... and I got my wish!

Bliss...

Thank You, Jinny, It was really an amazing time.

Thanks Tineke, you're the one who got me here!
And thanks to Trijntje for doing such an amazing job organizing it all.

My roommate Danielle
:)
Can't wait to do this again!!!

And an unexpected delight: On the way back to the airport, I got to spend 5 minutes in Ria's sewing room, and meet her Josephine...
I had to take this picture for my Wilhelmientje!

My little trip to Holland was wonderful, and really felt too short. I would have loved to spend more time and meet more blog-friends. But the time was so limited and I never expected to be so overwhelmed and exhausted by the workshop. I have to say though, that being in a room with 30 plus other quilters, learning and sharing in that experience, was almost too much for little me to handle. I really kept pinching myself... :)
I hope to share more of the workshops themselves with you, with as I start assimilating them and applying them to my work.
Ok, back to Klosjes. I have to say it has been difficult to get my nose back to the grindstone...
Hoping to have another corner stitched together in the next few days!
xox,
V.

Please visit Stephanie and support her in her effort to raise money for the relief effort for Japan. Every little helps. Thanks, Stephanie, I hope we surpass your expectation!

Happy

2011-03-07T21:37:00.000+02:00

I am stumped. No words.
:)
..but happy!

This is not just any ordinary Klosje, this little one is my 700th!
...and coming to the realization that this week was my last week making Klosjes was a bit overwhelming!
I made 83 and that means 713, :) happy happy dance!

...but for now, I will need to take a little break, because tomorrow morning bright and early, Mama is going on a little trip to Holland. super happy!

Jinny Beyer is coming to give a workshop and I just could not pass this opportunity to see my nieces and meet someone who I admire so much. I consider Jinny Beyer's book Quiltmaking by Hand the one who taught me and led me to fall in love with hand-stitching. HAAAPPY!

almond blossoms

You know this first part of the year has been a bit challenging for me, and I have to admit that I am really looking forward to a few days to "fill the well". I am looking forward to taking lots of pictures and share these workshops days with all of you.
My littlest one is back to his happy bouncy self and my friend Elena is over the moon by your support and encouragement! Thank you!!!

So are you ready to come away with me for a little break?

I leave you with a few images of Spring in Cyprus, today the beginning of Great Lent, also known as Green Monday.

I will be thinking of you!
Valentina

Introducing my friend Elena

2011-03-05T16:10:00.001+02:00

Hello friends, Spring is definitely in the air here in the eastern Med!

Those of you that read my blog regularly, have heard me mention my friend Elena. And many of you might even remember the many pictures taken at her beautiful shop Giving Tree.

I knew she'd be a forever friend when she first described me, to my face, as 'a sandwich short of a picnic'! :)

So, while I sit here this very springy saturday afternoon, keeping an eye on my littlest one who has had a fever since yesterday, and stitching the last of my klosjes, I am delighted in her sharing her quilt with you.

Hello everyone!

Valentina is a very special friend of mine, we spend many mornings together quilting and chatting (Valentina the former and I the latter, if i'm to be honest!). The other day she suggested that I make a 'guest appearance' on her blog. The reason being that I have finished my first hand quilted quilt.

I must mention that this quilt has been a labour of love for many reasons. I started making it for another very dear friend when her fiance proposed to her, as a wedding gift to them. Most of its making up time was made at home with Valentina and the quilting part at my home or in between my children's activities. ( v: she has 5!!!)

I hope it brings a smile to your faces as much as it has to mine, humble as it is I feel a huge sense of achievement having made it. Thank you dearest friend for your patience and kindness.

Warmest wishes to you all

Elena

Elena, may this quilt be the first of many many more! :)
And my Klosjes update will be following tomorrow.
Have a lovely weekend, enjoying your loved ones and stitching,
Valentina and company.
:)

Saturday night Klosjes

2011-02-26T20:45:00.003+02:00

Spending some lovely quiet time with my Klosjes, tonight. I have 20 finished and a bowl full of 'partials', which I will get through by tomorrow night.
I am feeling like my old self again, and have been celebrating that by having a deliciously busy week, which included a 'play-date' with Tineke and a visit to the indoor park with the boys. Klosjes continue to be my constant companions and they really are moving along nicely. Tineke and I even managed to make some together amidst the catching up, planning and giggling.
I have also had some sleepless nights dreaming of new projects... :) Isn't it fun how we start dreaming of our next project just as we are finishing what we are working on? :)
I am missing my charm-hexies, but know I will be more inclined to work on them when the summer heat arrives. In the meantime, I had the joy of meeting Liz, and order a beautiful pattern from her achingly beautiful blog.
ooooh, life is good!
thinking of you, and trying to sneak in some visits a day, looking forward to catching up soon!
V.
:)

Sunday night update: yeay! after finishing the 'partials' in the bowl I now have added an extra 25, making my week's total 45. This added to the 585 I had makes it... 630! Happy dance!!!
Oh oh, even better: I only have 90 more to go!
wish me luck!
:)

Klosjes update

2011-02-22T18:53:00.002+02:00

Not much going on around here apart from Klosjes being marked, cut, stitched--- at breakfast, in the morning, in the afternoon while the boys play, evenings... Ok you get the picture!
It's hard sometimes, as I am getting a bit bored and miss my sewing machine, intensely. And yet, I am convinced that I am making them faster than before. And seeing them piling up is kinda fun, :).
So for the last week I have added 61 new ones, a new record for sure. :)
Anyway, I suspect I will not be stitching much tonight. Today 19 years ago, on the 22 of the 2 of '92, when I was 22 and my love 24, we went out on our first date... and the rest has been a beautiful history. I hope he feels better from the stomach bug that has been pestering him and we can go out.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
...ok maybe I can squeeze in stitching another Klosje before he gets home...
:)

and sending my love and prayers to our blogging sisters in New Zealand.

silver lining

2011-02-13T16:01:00.003+02:00

Despite the misery of a lingering cough, I have been really enjoying the unexpected silver lining: Klosjes!

I don't know if this happens to you, but when I am sick, my horizon shrinks and my focus tends to shift inward. The blessing of this is that I have been very aware where I am choosing my limited energy to go: into getting better, into keeping my kids nurtured and happy and into stitching a bit.
Well, bit by bit I ended up with 52 new Klosjes, a flower border, and a clear idea as to how my Klosjes Quilt will look at the end.

These were the only two that were stitched in Aruba,
but became the first of the new 52 that have been added since.

I had been struggling for months with many lay-out ideas for my Klosjes and finally decided to go with simple. I like simple. And I like that it will show the Klosjes in all their glory without distraction. It just means that I need a lot more Klosjes: 198 more... and that will bring my grand total to 720.

The first of the completed corners! :)
120 Klosjes per corner = 480 plus the 240 already in the centre makes 720! What?!

Had I known this last February, when I first started this love affair with my Klosjes, I might have had some trepidation. :)

Now, I do not regret it, and feel extremely happy that now I know where we are going. However, I know that my time with Klosjes is coming to an end and have decided to put all other projects on hold until I bring this quilt to fruition.

For me this was always a quilt worth making, and seeing it coming together now, is really exciting...

So don't you agree this is a nice silver lining?

taken from the plane on our way back home to Cyprus

Missing you, and hoping you are well, enjoying your stitching, and finding your own silver linings,
Valentina

And yes, Happy Valentine's Tomorrow!
:)

view of the Mediterranean yesterday morning,
just for you!

2011-02-02T12:19:00.000+02:00

I have been battling the worst flu I can remember. It started with the boys and Hubby, and then I succumbed. Don't know how much jet-lag played into it. Don't know where January has gone.
I am worried for the people of Egypt, I pray for the Queenlanders. I carry my friend and her imminent adoption in my heart.
I stitch and read and try to get better.

This scrap quilt was made with so much love for a little girl in Aruba, that has had to survive more ugliness than I can even comprehend. In her young life the climb ahead is still so hard and almost disheartening.
She couldn't believe someone would have made something specifically for her: she kept asking me: you did this for me? did you work on it everyday, for a long time? For me? ...
and she was fascinated by the tiniest scraps... You don't throw out even those small ones?...

and then my 8 year old niece said:
"God uses everything, even the smallest things, and the pieces no one thinks of as important, to make something beautiful..."

Tropical Hexies

2011-01-19T17:00:00.001+02:00

You should have seen me and my hexies in Aruba, a bit ridiculous, they went everywhere with me! I actually think they had a really great holiday! LOL
Seriously, it was really humid and in the evenings it felt like I had to fight to survive the mosquitos. Anyhoo, you get the gist: not a lot got done. But One Flower did,

and actually, when I count all the hexies that got prepped, and the diamonds that got finished from last year, it is not a shabby turnout!

Now, the funniest thing happened: we were driving along and what do I see?

Honestly, I had to drag my hubby the very next day to take a picture: this happened last wednesday and I thought: PERFECT! ONE FLOWER WEDNESDAY! No one will believe THIS! (unfortunately the internet connection was so slow and my laptop battery leaving so much to be desired... Good thing Wednesdays have a tendency of coming along once a week!)

now, really, sometimes too much is just toooo much, even for me!
:)

I can't wait to see everyone's new blooms and gardens, I certainly have missed you all!
Valentina

Feel like going for a walk?

2011-01-18T11:55:00.000+02:00

Aruba is a Dutch island in the Caribbean. This is so beautifully obvious in it's architecture as you take a stroll around town. Shall we?

This is the beautifully restored house of a national hero Boy Ecury. It is now part of the of the complex that houses the Archeological Museum.

Sometimes you just need to look up...

The more touristy part of downtown.
Most people looking for bargains: perfume of jewelry being the most sought after.
For me, I walk around being flooded by memories of a happy carefree childhood.
We often used to walk these streets after school to get to my dad's Dentistry Practice.

I am so happy that some of these old private houses have been 'saved' by turning them into Government offices.

This is a lovely example of a restored traditional 'Arubian House'.
This one turned into a dutch restaurant.

Fort Zoutman, for a bit of history, go here.

Hope you enjoyed that. Now let's sit on the veranda. Can I offer some of my mom's lemonade?

I have been so wanting to share my niece's pinwheel quilt with you.

Remember how I told in early december how easily it was coming together?

Some quilts are like that, aren't they? After simmering for a while they almost make themselves. Others simmer for years!!!

This quilt was a wonderful way to end 2010. And my niece's joy receiving it and her proudly placing it on her bed, was quite overwhelming to me.

Enjoy it, my sweet!

Something struck me so deeply as I was taking these pictures. I realized for the first time (duh!!!), how much my quilts are influenced by the colours sprinkled throughout the island. I am serious, I never stopped to think that I carried these colours of my childhood with me.

I look forward to see how this new realization and acceptance translates into the quilts to come!
:)

------

If you are, like me, wanting to help our Australian sisters, but so overwhelmed not knowing what to do, please Visit Robyn. She has put together a very comprehensive list as to how we can lend a hand.

Back Home

2011-01-17T11:56:00.000+02:00

Last night, we made it home after a long trip. Yes, we are back in dreary winter weather, and our vacation time in Aruba now just a collection of fond memories, wonderful pictures and reassurances that we will be back soon. The boys are heartbroken, missing their Baba (grandma) and their cousins so very much. Thankfully the traveling itself went very all: no delays and everyone and everything arrived safe and sound.

I have so many pictures to share with you, including many of quilts, which I will start uploading as soon as I can. I hope to be getting back into the swing of things as soon as I loosen the grips of Jet-lag. I can't wait to catch up with all of you and finding out more about our Aussie quilt sisters and the many efforts undertaken to help out.

I send you my love,
a very wobbly
Valentina
:)

New Beginnings

2011-01-06T23:46:00.000+02:00

Happy New Year!

What a thrill it was to welcome 2011 seeing Aruba lighting up the sky in fireworks. Being just as I remembered it as a child, and it was now so much more as I witnessed my kids' faces light up in disbelief and wonder... "Mama, I like the exploding fireworks e-very-where!!!"

It was an unforgettable night and a wonderful way to bring in the New Year with family, friends, food and song.

I can honestly say that the daze of jet-lag is finally lifting and I able to really start to BE with my loved ones. The boys just cannot get enough from playing with their cousins, outside in the dirt! :)

It has been raining quite a bit of late, so the island is covered in luscious greens, and any chance we get we try to sit outside and enjoy the breezes.

This morning was especially wonderful as the sun came out from behind the clouds, and I rushed out with my camera to spend some time with the hummingbirds and the butterflies. I still cannot find the words to describe the utter joy of just being allowed to share in their goings-on.

As you can imagine, I have not been able to do much stitching as yet, although the itch to stitch is nearly making me crazy! :) ...just as the mosquitos are, actually!

So, receive my best wishes for a Creative New Year, surrounded by all the love and peace your heart can hold!

Valentina
:)

Enjoying the days

2010-12-18T08:06:00.000+02:00

Last night was the official opening of the first ever Patchwork Exhibit in Nicosia. The Mayor Ms Eleni Mavrou was so moved, we might yet make a quilter out of her! She kept commenting about the colours, and wanting to know about each quilt and saying things like "next year" and 'bigger'...
:)

It was all so last minute, as the hall had become available and we were invited to exhibit our quilts by the City. We only had about 2 weeks to put it all together. But in the end, it was worth it. We are all so grateful for this honour and opportunity.

This is the first time I show one of my quilts to the public and I was excited and nervous.

Tineke has been in town and would miss the opening as she was traveling back to Germany. As we arrived at the hall to give her a sneak-peak, I was blown away by seeing kids lining up to enter the exhibit. Tineke was a great support (helping me to stop from fainting...) and encouraged me to talk to them.

So much so, I have been invited to come to their school in the new year. ( me and my very broken greek!)

For the exhibit, I chose my quilt 'Aruba' which is a double sided Batik quilt. It is the only Batik quilt I have made so far. But I wanted to capture the colours of my tropical childhood home. :)

The reverse side is the colours of the sunsets on Aruba. The front: well, sitting under the palm trees sipping cold drinks...

Something I hope to be doing in a little over a week, as we are planning to spend New Year's with my parents and Family.

In the meantime there is a lot more stitching to be done. I have been binding quilts and having fun with my hexies, enjoying how truly portable they are. More show and tell from exotic locations forthcoming! LOL

it has been a very wonderful december so far: the highlight for me was seeing my boys as the handsomest Joseph and the cutest shepherd boy I have ever seen!

As you can gather, I have not been around my computer much, and I have missed visiting with you all. But I intend to remedy that sitting under a palm tree sipping Virgin Coladas! So bring along those swimsuits, girls!

Sending you the warmest wishes for a Blessed season. And yes, I finally got to use my winter coat and umbrella!

Valentina

I will be getting permission to post the rest of the quilts in the Exhibit, and if you are in town, come say hi. The exhibit runs until Christmas eve.

life's a beach...

2010-11-30T19:19:00.000+02:00

While most of the Northern Hemisphere is enjoying wintery weather, we in Cyprus are having to wrap our heads around the fact that we are still walking around in short sleeves during the day and a light sweater at night. The funniest thing is how we are all insisting on wearing our winter fashions in 27 degree weather! It is not uncommon to see fashionistas wearing their boots and scarves in shorts. :)

So instead of sounding like a broken record, I decided to accept it: so we might as well hit the beach!

we took the kids to the coast for fresh fish meze

Psychologically, it is hard for Cypriots to dare go into the ocean at this time of year despite the unusually warm weather, but there were enough tourist 'polar bears' to compensate!

the four of us enjoying the ocean breezes on the boardwalk.
And yes, that is little Daisy on the right!

We had a lovely day as a family, and I came back really inspired to work on my little Clams.
I am having such fun, that I have decided to continue focusing on it for the next few days. I can see that the end is near and that I only need a few more rows to finish my Dolly Quilt.

The first tangerines of the season are here! They are so sweet, and the perfect snack while stitching. Want some?
;)

I have enjoyed the Clamshell club so much (Thanks again Jossie, for letting us join you!), and have learned heaps from my fellow Clammers. It has been so fabulous to share the camaraderie forged by the trials and tribulations these little ones have put us through! LOL

However, it is amazing to me how the last few rows of clams look so much nicer and neater than the first ones, and yet, those imperfections remind me that I started this little project in Holland with my little niece in June, worked on it in Provence in August, and had my little ones fiddling with them the other day... It amazes me every time, how many memories get stitched into our projects...
Dairies written in thread...
:)

As November draws to an end, I wish you a wonderful and peaceful holidays season ahead!
Thinking of you all,
Valentina

8 klosjes and a quick Hello!

2010-11-27T19:41:00.001+02:00

Hello, my friends! How are you?

(Please, Tell me you are also in disbelief that November is nearly over, and that we are only 4 weeks away from Christmas! Yeay!/Yikes!)

8 more Klosjes joined the gang this week making my total 472. And I still haven't had a chance to calculate my grand total, so I will happily keep Klosjing along for now... I just don't feel I have the mental capacity left for anything 'grand' at this moment...

But there is good news on the quilty-front: This week I have (finally!) settled on a setting for my Spotty Dotty Potluck hexi-flowers. It has taken a LOOOOONG time, but I am so happy and relieved that I waited for the right setting to come along! ...it seems there are advantages to patient procrastination!

This will be a project to be continued next spring.

Also: The Pinwheel quilt is done! I had a lot of fun working on it this week and rushed to send it off in time to be professionally machine-quilted by my friend Irene. Can't wait to show you when it comes back!

I am wishing you all a lovely weekend, with some fun holiday prep with a sprinkle of stitching!

xox

...or stitching with a sprinkle of fairy-dust that gets the house and home prepped for the holidays... and the kids in bed...

would you believe me if I told you I started this post at least 12 hours ago?!

Oh, joy!

Klosjes and Pinwheels

2010-11-20T10:02:00.001+02:00

As we are rushing out the door to get our Christmas Family pix, first visit to the vet with Miss Daisy, buy a suit for daddy who's going on a business trip to Scotland on monday, stubborn me still wants to beat the odds and sneak in a show and tell:

I am crazy, I know!

ok let's make this fast:
20 Klosjes got made which means 464 Klosjes. Jippie!

and the pinwheels have grown this week, as well.

I actually think this is me putting off the inevitable questions: what I am going to wear? What can I do about my hair! ooooooooooohhhhhh!
ok, time to face the music!

looking forward to some time this weekend to visit with all of you!
xox
V.

seriously what am I going to wear?!
:)

little treats

2010-11-17T20:49:00.002+02:00

Today, I had some unexpected treats: a letter, just for me, all the way from Australia. Terry surprised me with some lovely charm squares of 'Down Under Flora and Fauna' fabrics. I was so happy, I had to make them into hexi-flowers right away just so I could show her, and since it is One flower Wednesday...

Now I have my very own Kangaroo crossing hexi and can you spot the Sydney Opera House? And can you see the outback pioneer-wagon?
:)

My other treat was an unexpected Coffee break. I don't usually drink coffee, so it was decaf, but just as yummy... just by myself, and my hexies, since I suddenly found myself with unplanned 'in between' time before picking up the kids from school...
Blisss!!!

It really does pay off to have my hexies pouch with me. And today I also had my camera and my big hexies bin, yippee!

So in total four more charm hexi-flowers with plain centres were added today. Thank you so much Terry! This is a real treat, and like I already told you, my charm quilt now has a piece of you and Oz in it!
:)

and this is a happy song just for you!

Searching for Autumn

2010-11-15T13:18:00.000+02:00

This weekend we decided to break the mold and to grab the kids and dog and go to the Troodos mountains to see if we could catch some Fall Colours.

We had so much fun spending time as a family, playing outside and hiking in the forest.

Actually feeling cold, and having to keep warm by the fire was such a treat, considering we are still hovering around 26 Celcius in town.

I even managed to do work on some Klosjes and Hexies, while the boys hurled themselves down the little hill on their go-carts.

what is it with boys and their wheels...
:)

Vineyards losing their leaves

Apart from teaching and the usual Klosjes and hexies this week, I really need to focus on some deadlines. I decided to start over on one of the projects I had been working on. This is always a hard decision, but I just wasn't happy with it and besides this new pattern has pinwheels at it's centre. And pinwheels make me smile.
:)

hoping you are having a great start to your week!
xx
V.

a little note...

2010-11-10T21:48:00.002+02:00

in case you feel in a rut, or feel overwhelmed by your projects, or feel pulled to so many different directions and are confused as to why you keep needing more fabrics and are so easily tempted to making new quilts...

Because we are quilters. And we have a very unique gift and calling...

Just visit Victoria today, if you need a little reminder why we have chosen to be Quilters!

:)

With Joy,
Valentina

a few flowers for wednesday

2010-11-10T18:14:00.000+02:00

I have been looking forward to this One Flower Wednesday as I have missed quite a few. I keep my hexi-pouch in my handbag and hexies continue to get made in the car before picking up the kids from school, waiting for students to arrive to classes and every time I get together with friends. Slowly more hexies get prepared and added to the pile.

I made these flowers using plain centres and I really like their 'charm' effect. I hope that once stitched together with the other charm hexies the flowers will not disappear into the background...one can only hope!

I am really looking forward to a warm cup of tea, and a visit with my fellow gardeners!
:)

Hoping you are all having some 'charming' moments this week!
xox
Valentina

Little joys

2010-11-07T16:11:00.004+02:00

I'm back! I never intended to be gone so long, but such is Life! (mine, at least...)
:)

I have many things to share with you. And I am so sad I have not been able to keep up with what you have been up to, either. But I am hoping things will be more settled in the next few weeks. (fingers crossed!)

Here are my October Clams, good thing these don't spoil... :) Jossie, I really need to thank you for this project, as I am really having such fun with these Clams. And the more time I spend on them, the more I enjoy working on them.

Halfway there!
Can't wait to see what the other Clam-girls have been up to...

Shruti has been patiently waiting for 2 baby-quilts I promised for her 'SPREAD THE CHEER' initiative. Now they are finally en route to India!
Once I had tidied up my sewing room, it was a delight to work on these little ones (32" by 35").

I even went as far as trying out the things I had learned from Leah last year. I kept hearing her encouraging voice in my head, and took out the Supreme-slider. Do I need to say more?! I kept breathing- relaxing my shoulders- listening to my machines' motor- foot completely on the pedal- breathing... And kept repeating to myself what I heard Leah say that learning came from doing...
:)
My loopy loops just kept getting more fluid and by the time I got to the second quilt I even had mustered enough courage to try some McTarvishing...

Thank YOU, Leah!
:)

And the back wasn't too shabby, in my humble Beginner's opinion.
:)

Oh wow: fun, indeed! I wish I had more time to spend practicing free-motion quilting. Maybe I should make it a point...

In the meantime, I have kept up the Klosjes production in the evenings, over the past weeks. I am happy to say that another 44 Klosjes have been added, making my total 445 out of 600+. I was so encouraged by your lovely comments and amazing support on my last Klosjes update: THANK YOU! Van Harte Bedankt!

I also had the joy of meeting Kristine this week. It was so very nice to share our quilting stories.

We had a great time together, and I even had a chance to ask her to coach me on my hand-quilting.

Kristine showing me how she handquilts

As a self-taught quilter, it was a real dream come true to have someone with so much experience looking over my shoulder and giving me tips. She told me to cut the tail off from my thread once I made my quilter's knot. Also she showed me my quilt had to be tighter on the hoop. She encouraged me to graduate to a much much smaller needle. ( Just like Ria had done, and so I had 12's at home and was able to start practicing right away). And Kristine also showed me how to position my thumb closer to the needle, and as promised I couldn't believe how teeny tiny my stitches turned out!
Thanks Kristine, it really was so nice to meet you!

Yesterday we added a new member to our little family.

This is Daisy. The boys chose her name, and I was really happy with it, as I think it suits her perfectly! I am sure we will have lots of fun together. She is one of the smallest sized dog I have ever owned, but she holds her own and is perfect with the boys. Rehoming has been going amazingly smoothly, and we couldn't be more thrilled: Welcome to our pack, Sweetheart!

I have one more thing to share with you today. Look what we picked up this morning at the newsstand:

And inside we found this:

My dear friend Elena was invited to be the stylist for this article in this month's Madame Figaro Maison.
And whose quilt is that stylishly draped on the hammock...

It's the same quilt that keeps us warm at night! :)
This is really exciting, especially when you see that I don't even get a last name in the credits... LOL
in greek: Handmade Quilt created by Valentina...
Remember I told you about this quilt here ...

:)

These are the little joys of my busy life.
And since everyone is still happily napping, I will go and see what you have been up to!
See you when I see you!
:)

ps If you like listening to uplifting things while stitching I recommend you listen to this. Thanks for the tip Nadine, who by the way has a new blog!

Found here

Brene has such an amazing blog Ordinary Courage.

Enjoy!

Klosjes Quilt on Klosjes Saturday

2010-10-23T09:37:00.002+03:00

I am so happy I can finally show you the progress on my Klosjes Quilt. Yes, now I can, for the first time, refer to it as a Quilt and I am so excited to share it with you:

These are a total of 240 Klosjes stitched together. Sue-Anne and Michele have been so encouraging to me, believing I could get hooked on Applique, and well: Teachers, you like? :) THANK YOU!
I wanted to make something special to mark 10-10-'10 and so I just 'pinched and stitched' myself to this. I know I have so much to learn about applique, but this little wobbly vase was a big step for me. (I am growing as a quilter! Yeay!) I know that the proportions are not right, but I stitched myself into a corner, so to speak. My Flower wanted to keep growing, but my Klosjes were only allowing a 10 inch opening. But it's a start, isn't it? And yes, I can see me getting totally hooked on Applique!
:)

I really find that the best incentive to keep making Klosjes, is to stitch them to each other and see them grow. As you can see I am thinking of a central medallion, setting corners and then a 4 or 5 Klosjes wide border all around. This means I still have a lot of Klosjes more to go. It really is a work in progress, and I am excited letting it develop as I go. (I will be 'Kloss'-ing for quite a while longer!)

The great clean up of my sewing room is going really well, and I am rediscovering why I love being in MY Room so much. I am looking forward to the rest of the weekend to continue reclaiming my space.
And my hexies are impatiently demanding some attention...
:)
I hope you have a wonderful weekend, too!
Valentina

orange crush

2010-10-21T20:51:00.000+03:00

Today for Robyn's Colourful Friday's we are looking at Orange. Of course I wanted to take pictures of oranges and pumpkins, but quite unexpectedly it turned into another introspective post. I am fascinated with how this exercise has really made me think of colour and how I relate to it. In quilts, Orange is a colour that I love to pair off with reds. But also with pinks, and yellows of course. My favourite orange is Tangerine, no question about that. And can any colour claim to smell better than ORANGE?

I love Tangerine and Turquoise together

Babushka

Ukrainian tablecloth

As a little girl, I stared at her in the china cabinet endlessly

Russian wooded spoon

One of the many giraffes that live at home with us

A mini quilt from left-over triangles

a special gift from a 'Turtle' friend

Cosy orange corner

the top of last week's tin

happy curtains

Couldn't resist adding these...

or these... :)

Flamboyant in my parents garden

Nemo is so loved around here...

" This is my Mama!"
and I nearly passed out from the excitement!
:)

Little butterfly didn't know how she would travel the globe

sunrise

sunset

siesta

Best friends
I still miss you, Amber!

I have been quite slow this week, pacing myself and getting a handle on the ups and downs of adjusting to the new meds. I have been carried away working on my Klosjes-quilt and have continued work on preparing more charm hexies during those 'in between' times.

Today I attempted to climb over some hurdles get to my sewing machine to work on a few baby-quilts.
It was tragic.
My sewing-room is officially declared a disaster zone. But I cannot ignore it any longer. It has gotten to the point that it is not a fun place to be. I know it needs to get worse before it gets better, so I have resolved to spend friday morning tackling the monster by taking everything out...
And no, you cannot expect 'before and after' pictures. Not while I still have a shred of self-respect!
LOL
ok, maybe an 'after' shot, but I do have to go to work tomorrow afternoon, so maybe not...
(Oh man, maybe I should just delete this last paragraph! Because now you guys will hold me accountable... oops! But isn't THAT what friends are for--- right? So I will be brave and let you know!)

Looking forward to seeing everyone's Oranges this week!

xox
:)

going green

2010-10-14T18:54:00.001+03:00

Hello everyone, this week the assignment for Robyn's Colourful Fridays is Green.

Some of you know that I have been struggling with my health. Well, the good news this week is that I started thyroid medication and have already started feeling so much better. So green this week has meant a lot of health and hope for me.

It has also meant Cleansing, as I am on a strict detox fast, so I am literally going GREEN this week!

and detoxing does bring out the grouchies!

I think I can... I think I can!

if not, just go over it!

but I also feel deliciously fresh

my ripple blanket

luscious

if I could only grow two plants in my dream-garden it would be Ferns and Ivy

how can one resist such a tin?

hand-quilting, one of the biggest joys in my life

Quilting greens

Lovely...

Mami and me
"Te quiero mucho, Mami"
I was always fascinated by my mother's green eyes.
As I child I used to love looking at the multicolour flecks in her eyes.
So when I asked her what colour her eyes were she would reply:
Cocktail!

so you can imagine the thrill the day I found two flecks of green in my right eye!
Brown eyes, with a twist!
:)

My little one has a fascination with nesting dolls

oh, how I love my green tea...

To infinity and beyond!

washing up is just so therapeutic
:)

I also have tried to give back this week. I met 2 wonderful 2 quilters from Greece. Theodora is in Athens, and she introduced me to Kristine who is in Thessaloniki. Please, visit their blogs and get to know first hand what amazing women they are.

Kristine has a calling to make quilts for those that need them the most: orphans, destitutes, and victims of human trafficking. I was so moved by her work I was able to send a little quilt top with my Mother in law, who coincidently was traveling to Thessaloniki, Greece and met with Kristine.

Encouraged by Victoria's 15 minutes Play
this little top came together using scraps.

I have been working on attaching Klosjes this week and it is going really well. I hope to show you my progress on Saturday. I am still experiencing problems with my blog and hope this post uploads, after I have been struggling all day to get the pictures up. I really enjoyed all your emails since saturday, letting me know my comments form is not working. I hope it doesn't happen again in this post, if it gives you problems again, just blow me a kiss and

she will bring it to me!

Klosjes saturday celebration

2010-10-09T16:53:00.001+03:00

I have been riding the Klosjes wave this week, and having such fun. First I found a whole lot of prepared klosjes pieces that had been marked before going to Holland. This was a great boost. Also wanting to reach 400 has been a milestone for the whole summer, so just as we experienced our first rainfall in months: yeay!
I reached 401 by thursday. And then I was tempted to start stitching some together and this is where you find me this afternoon:

I had to tear myself away to post!
:)

I don't know if I have been the only experiencing some problems with Blogger. I have tried leaving comments and nothing. (I hope this post gets uploaded!)
I hope you have a lovely 10-10-'10 tomorrow. I plan to spend mine stitching away, and drinking fruit and vegetable juices... but that's another story.
sending you my love,
Valentina

true blue

2010-10-08T12:27:00.004+03:00

Today is Blue Friday, and I have been enjoying the incredible exercise in Colour that Robyn has come up with with her Colourful Fridays assignments. I have been focusing on Blues for the past few days and I am amazed what feelings have arisen. And if you look around in my blog, you already have a hint as to what blue means to me:

living in the Mediterranean

Coming from Aruba

in the deep Caribbean Blue...

Respect and Awe

Travel

Growing up

My kids and 3am feedings...

My favourite use of Blue in a movie

My little city veranda

Hexies!

My first ever quilt 1994

My current hand-quilting project

My umbrella

my threads...

How fast are they growing?!

my break from quilting

more threads...

our blue bathroom

Royal Blue stenciled border in our hallway

Nicosia in the Blue Hour

responsibility

joy

our Blue Egg lamp

My Blue Dragonfly lamp

My blue glass

My Mother's Blue painting:
My mom commissioned this painting before marrying my dad from her former art-teacher.
As a child I remember her turning the lights low and telling us stories about Ukraine. She would tell us that if we looked intently at the windows we could see the candle light flickering...
Growing up in the tropics, these snowy moments were truly magical.

And I think you know by now that I am a true blue friend.

Can't wait to see what Robyn and the rest of the Colourful Friday girls have in store for us today!

seeing red

2010-10-01T12:13:00.002+03:00

There isn't much that Robyn can't get me to do... :)

So just for laughs, here are some Reds for Colourful Fridays...

Have a wonderful start to the month of October, and may we all get some finishes before the end of the year!

ps other famous REDS that have made unto my blog in the past: the laundry, the quilt, the klosjes, the flowers... and who can forget the tomatoes and the Diamond!
;)

I LOVE RED.

the eleventh hour clams

2010-09-30T23:34:00.001+03:00

'Better late than never' seems to be my motto these days. Not one I like. And one I will continue fighting against. But I am not giving up. And I nearly did, this afternoon, when one of my four year olds slammed into my quilting lamp, bringing it to the floor in a huge crash, smashing its base...
I am happy to report no one got hurt--- and later spotted hubby checking out OTTlights online... hummm, maybe not such a bad thing after all! :)

And so at 11 o'clock tonight I am posting, squeezing in my Clam-shell report for September: showing my 2 added rows of clams! Yeay!
( he thinks I am crazy, but he loves me... and took this picture!)
:)

and here they are: and I must say: I really like how it's coming along!
:)

...and maybe it will not be put away this month until I panic and need to report at a quarter to midnight on Oct. 31st! That would just be creepy! LOL

kisses,
your fellow clammer,
V.
also known as Cinderella.
:)

Wednesday's Flowers

2010-09-29T12:46:00.001+03:00

Detail of My African woman Charm Hexi

This week went by so fast. We had a lovely time with our friends from Canada and I am happy to report that our Maple Syrup supplies are no longer at critical levels...

Thanks Gin!

We also celebrated our youngest's 4th birthday. We had loads of fun with the festivities and a bonus for me is that once the dining-room table was freed up I was able to put my Charm hexies down... wow!

As you can see, I have been adding rings around the diamonds. I have not stitched it all together yet, and plan to leave it in sections for a while longer, as it is proving much easier to handle.

Here's a better view of the sections: On the left you can see me auditioning a multi-coloured mini-diamond section. I like the effect: considering this is a charm quilt and the idea is not to repeat hexies, I like the impressionistic effect it is creating.

I still have not counted how many hexies I have used, and still have a whole lot of hexies left to prepare. Final size at this point is anyone's guess. I have been enjoying the process so much, am not concerned about the logistics.

My idea is to keep making hexi-flowers on wednesdays so these can be added to a more random background. And I do not believe I will be adding anymore diamonds beyond this point. But as always, I am open to your suggestions and value your impressions!

Looking forward to visiting my fellow Hexi-flower gardeners this week,
Hoping you are all well and enjoying your stitching,
Valentina

Hard to believe...

2010-09-21T15:44:00.000+03:00

That it only has been a month,

since we were by the Rhone...

Walking the quaint streets of Arles

Being soothed by the scent of lavender in the breeze

and the rustling leaves

Les Arlesiennes

Enjoying the shade, the beauty and history

finding a quilt shop tucked away in the heart of old Arles

spending time admiring quilting fabrics with friends, old and new,

having a unique opportunity of visiting a provencal fabrics factory

Les Olivades

and be able to share all this with you.

I wish that I could have brought each and every one of you with me,

or at least that I could have brought each and every one of you a little something.

Maybe next time!

For now, we have to let the random generator pick just one:

from 179

# 64

Lori from Humble Quilts!

Congratulations!

Some Tea?

2010-09-19T12:05:00.000+03:00

Would you like to share some tea with me?

Imagine my delight when we got a special gift from Natima in Australia this week.
My boys exclaimed: "WOW! It's a teapot sweater, Mama!" While I was in tears, trying to figure out if I could wear this tea-cosy as a hat this winter! Thank you, Nat, from the bottom of my heart!
:)

I missed Saturday Klosjes Report, because my Love arrived from South Africa after being away for work. This will be the first of many more such trips in the coming months and I am thrilled for him, and for us as a family, for the real possibility of being able to go along with him on one of his trips. Having our eldest son be of African descent, you can only imagine our excitement.

Here are 7 new Klosjes for this week. These are very special ones, made from the Delft Blue fabric given to me by Tineke. Bedankt, Tien! Aren't they cute? :)

One of my dearest friends from Canada in coming next week, just to hang out with me. Yeay!
So, I will excuse myself in advance, as I really don't forsee getting much stitching done while she is here.

For those of you who share my passion in Psychology and the marvels of the Human Brain, I recommend this series. I am enjoying stitching to them, more than I can truly express. ( I would love love love to discuss these with you later on, while stitching of course!)

So, will you sit awhile and enjoy some tea with me?
:)

with much love,
Valentina

Hexies under the weather...

2010-09-15T14:10:00.001+03:00

And the heat continues... And I am still under the weather.
But, I have heard rumours that our coming winter will be a cold one, which has me giddy with expectation! I have visions of long dark nights of uninterrupted idyllic quilting...
:)

In the midst of it all, I am pleasantly surprised I managed a few Charm hexi-flowers for this week. These will be the supporting cast to my Charm diamonds.

...am I the only one feeling that September is just rushing past?

I hope you have a lovely day, and that it includes some sewing!

Thinking of you, missing you, looking for a few stolen moments so I can sneak in a visit to your blogs...
Valentina
:)

Klosjes again!

2010-09-11T16:38:00.004+03:00

What a week it has been!
The boys had a wonderful first week at school. But, like many of you kindly warned me, I did have a dip, all of a sudden finding myself in an empty house...
I was sorry sight, wandering aimlessly from room to room monday morning!
:)

Day two went easier on all fronts. I even had a chance to spend the morning with Tineke. We had a lovely time and she helped me to brainstorm about my charm hexi-diamonds.
But tuesday afternoon, wednesday and thursday are a blurr: instead of the quilt-bug having its way with me, I picked up a nasty stomach bug. I saw a worried look in my husband not because I couldn't hold any food down, but because I couldn't/wouldn't stitch!!! And my brain was so fuzzy I couldn't even read words on the computer screen...

:)

But all is well now. Things got done somehow, and yesterday I even had another 'sit + stitch' with Tineke. We laughed so hard when we noticed our miserable harvest of Klosjes for the morning's effort.
But it was fun!

So, all in all another 12 Klosjes got made.
:)

I hope you have a lovely weekend with your loved ones. I will be reflecting on the day and all that has happened since. And in so doing offering a prayer to those who lost their lives, and all of us left behind who have witnessed our world so radically changed.
V.

and we'll have a draw for our giveaway next week, ok?
:)