Late last night I did begin a new, little improv piece. I was planning to make a block for my scraps quilt, but I like this color scheme so much, I've decided to keep it by itself, so it doesn't get lost in that big quilt top.
I had some fun with the quilting, too! This is my very favorite part.
I have a bit more quilting to do and I think I'll finish this up as a new pillow cover for our family room.
Earlier this week I was away for a couple days at some appointments. I learned a lot from the doctors I saw, both of them were very helpful and extremely smart and kind woman. For the most part I am still waiting on more test results, but overall things went good. I can say that the more I learn about autoimmune disease, the more I realize just how terrible it is and can be. Please, if you know someone who suffers from an autoimmune disease, give them a big ol' hug the next time you see them. These sorts of issues can be a very lonely thing, that many people really don't understand. It's difficult sometimes to stay positive and motivated, but it's so important!! Knowing that people care, love you, and are praying for you makes all the difference! Feeling that support makes those bad days, much easier to get through.
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Today, I'm going to let it go. I'm not having a very good day, but I'm going to keep having fun making my fox pillows, birthday crowns, and hopefully find (somewhere) a little time for working on my own projects, too.
I'm going to enjoy staring at and working with these beautiful fabrics I love so much!
I recently stashed the entire Washi fabric collection designed by Rashida Coleman Hale for Timeless Treasures. I love these fabrics!!
And, the Ruby Polka Dots Bundle by Bonnie and Camille. I'm a huge fan of the scalloped Sundae prints in this collection. I use it often and have reordered colors a few time, so I decided the dots were worth picking up, too.
I'm going to enjoy being joined by my favorite company/entertainment/helpers for a long weekend -- here's just two of them. My third is very busy these days constructing some mystery project out of all the broken and old remotes he's been collecting in his tool box?? LOL
I'm going to try to have at least one BIG finish soon! And, I really want to turn this forgotten applique project into something soon, as well! What would you like to see her become? I'd LOVE to hear your ideas!!
Oh, if only there were 48 hours in a day! Just imagine all the sewing that could be done!!
Happy March 1st, friends!! ♥ Maureen
Sorry you are having a hard day, Maureen! I am praying for you, and appreciate the update.
ReplyDeleteI have to laugh when you say you didn't get much done this week.... I would be *thrilled* with the progress on your improv piece, as I didn't spend even one minute at my sewing machine this week. I had planned to make Craft Hope tote bags with some fabric I won, but a snow day took care of that plan!
Well, the improv piece was a last night whip up! Otherwise, I would have had nothing but my orders and you've all already seen those items! :)
DeleteThanks Amy!!
:) i completely agree! she is amazing! three kids and still always finds time for sewing... you are an inspiration maureen!!!
DeleteThank you both so much!! Well, I love it and it really has been my therapy through all of this! I am so happy to have all you wonderful people to share my sewing with!!
DeleteI'm so sorry that you're going through this. :( A good friend of mine was recently diagnosed with Lupus and while she's relieved (that's a bad word) to know why she's feeling the way she is, it's been hard on her emotionally in addition to physicall now.
ReplyDeletePS- On a different note, I'm starting a 31 day photography blog challenge today and I'd love it if you joined. :)http://www.myothercarisacrane.blogspot.com/2012/02/ooops-i-did-it-again.html
I understand that relief, it's not a great way to explain it, but it is so true!
DeleteI really shouldn't complain, I know am blessed in so many ways! Some days it's just a little tougher to get moving and past all the aches and pains. I don't think this weather helps much either!! It's been thunder storming on and off and raining!! Blah! ;)
I'll never get tired of seeing those fox pillows! They are so very sweet, Maureen! :D
ReplyDeleteThank you Sarah!!
DeleteBeautiful projects and I love the colors, the dots and your creativity. As for the autoimmune disease(s)...not sure what you have but I have 2 of them and you're right. People see me and don't think there's anything wrong and even my own family doesn't understand. I guess it's like anything else, if you can't "see" it it doesn't exist. I happen to have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Graves disease. If there's any way I can be of help to you please let me know. I've never been in a "support" group and I'm not really into pity from myself or others but a little understanding would be nice once in awhile instead of "what's your problem" when I won't drive 12 hours to see my family or when I don't go somewhere because I'm so tired. Anyway...I'm here for you girlfriend!
ReplyDeleteYour improv piece is looking awesome! I'm sorry you are having a rough day, please keep your head up! I hope you get some answers about your health soon, I can't imagine what you're going through! You're in my thoughts!!
ReplyDeleteOh, my!!! You have so many gorgeous projects going on. They are all so wonderful, isn't sewing just amazing? I never thought that sewing and quilting would be my therapy. I hope you feel better and that good days will outweigh the bad ones.
ReplyDeleteI have no thoughts on what that girl hanging from the flag bunting should become, but it sure is sweet!
ReplyDeleteI wish you many happy and healthy days ahead. I am always amazed at what you are able to do with just 24 hours a day. Keep up the wonderful work!!
Thank you Linda, you're so sweet!!
DeleteI have that same Washi bundle sitting on my sewing table. I'm not ready to use it yet, but love to stroke it and play with it. I'm thinking I should have gone for the yard of each rather than just the fat quarters, sigh. Might have to get more before the line is no longer available.
ReplyDeleteI like that first block you pictured...you're right, the color combination is yummy. And I enjoyed studying your intricate/close quilting on it. It's almost the weekend - my best sewing time - happy Thursday :)
And, I forgot to mention I have a new Verona giveaway planned for tomorrow!!!
ReplyDeletei know three people with autoimmune diseases (not including you)... one friend was just diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, another friend has lupus, and my mother was diagnosed with celiac disease. i didn't know much about them before but i think more and more people are coming to understand. i wish the best for you. i'm sure it must be hard... but yes, keep your chin up lady... you are an amazing woman and we are learning more about these everyday.
ReplyDeleteand your creating.... so inspirational!!!! you are amazing!!! the girl hanging from the banner is adorable! i'm not exactly sure what you should do with her but i can say this "not a pillow!!" hahaha! she could be on a cute tote bag or many one of anna maria's cozy cubes or something (i'm sure you know this but cozy cubes are in her first book). can't wait to see what she becomes :)
keep on maureen! you are amazing!
-jenny
http://phishybee.blogspot.com/
p.s. you can only use the word "amazing" that many times to describe someone if they truly are "amazing." :)
Awww, thinking of you and sending hugs your way. I suffer from an illness that not a lot of people understand either and I agree, it can be a very lonely place. Anytime you need to chat you email me ok hun?
ReplyDeleteLove what you're working on. So gorgeous and I need to get my hands on that whole Washi collection too. Big fan of Rashida's.
Hugs <3
Yes, hugs to you from me too. Gosh, I'm in such nice commenting company today =). Glad your little ones are being "helpers". Lately Aria's got lots of ideas for what I could do instead of sew. And, yes, a 48 hour day..
ReplyDeleteMaybe your cute little girl wants to be a felt page in a needle holder? Probably that's because I want to make some needle books today.
Thank-you for recognising that we need encouragement to reach out to each other especially when suffering. Illness has a tendency to isolate and I find it hard to ask for a hug when I need it most. Big hugs for you too and I hope you get your needs met today in the nicest way, be strong and of good courage! love Grace:) weftandwarp(at)hotmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteA 48 hour day? Hmmm. Now if you're/I'm having a good day that might be fun but a bad day? That would be one LONG day! Hopefully your tomorrow will be better.
ReplyDeletehow in the world do you keep your quilting lines sooooo straight. it always looks like i am drunk when i quilt. ;) love that fabric, all of it. and what is that yellow flower fabric? it is beautiful!!!
ReplyDeletexoxo you are in my thoughts. sorry today is bad. hope it gets better soon.
I'm putting a copy of that balloon on my desk...it's advice we all need sometimes. You were on my mind and in my prayers earlier today, and now I know why. Here's hoping that tomorrow will be better.
ReplyDeleteI can't WAIT to see what you make with all of the beautiful Washi fabric!
ReplyDeleteSending happy, peaceful, creative vibes to you today...
You've created such beautiful projects there. I'm glad the doctors were nice and helpful, and that things went well. It's hard to let go at times, and frustrating, but I'm glad you've had some great company to keep you going today (((((HUGS)))))
ReplyDeleteLOVE LOVE LOVE those cute little fox pillows. With a little bit more hair, they could even be Pomeranian pillows - I have Poms!!
ReplyDeleteI had such a tough sewing day yesterday that I refuse to get my machine out today no matter what. I made one block and it came out perfect. The second one gave me so much trouble I spent about 2-3 hrs on it and in the end it was not correct. GRRRR
You are inspiring! I absolutely love your work and you've inspired me to get out of my sewing comfort zone.
ReplyDeleteI too have an auto-immune disease, so I can totally relate to people not understanding. I suffered in silence for almost 6 years before I found a doctor that would listen to me and finally diagnosed me with severe ulcerative colitis. My mom thought I was dying! She didn't understand that it had been going on for so long and that I was so relieved to have a name to call it by. I am doing much better now, but I still have rough days. People dont always understand why I won't carpool for road trips, or have to cancel plans due to pure exhastion. Those of us with "Invisible" diseases, get forgotten...
Stay strong, and remember you're not forgotten!
Thank you Jennifer! You are a no-reply commenter, but if you email me directly I'd love to chat a little about your situation. Email me anytime!! maureencracknell@hotmail.com
DeleteHi Maureen, love all your pieces here. That fabric is totally beautiful and I am going to add some to my wish list! Sorry you had a bad day but your outlook is inspiring, its ok to feel bad and sorry for yourself as long as you can then let it go so you can feel proud for doing that! The balloon is a great motivator to remember that. Thinking of you today on the other side of the world, stay well.
ReplyDeletesorry to hear that you're having to go through so much medically, maureen. while i don't have an autoimmune disorder, i've worked with quite a few people as an acupuncturist to know just how difficult it can be. i love your attitude, though... it's good to acknowledge how frustrated and isolated you feel, but also to know when to "let it go". and i just love seeing all your fabrics and projects in the works. yay for wash! isn't just the prettiest?
ReplyDeleteI see that little girl on a small quilt that says you did it or congratulations.
ReplyDeleteI love your first square and the orange block. You have lots of good ideas. I don't know how you do it with three kids and not feeling well. Glad you got some help this week and have good doctors. My daughter has fibromylagia and it seems to be influenced by the weather too. You and your family are in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Yes, I think the weather does aggravate the joints, but honestly does anyone ever feel great on these dark gloomy days? I don't think so! ;)
DeleteLet me just start by saying how much I love your fox pillows. I've been eyeing them for a while. Those polka dot fabrics are darling. I think I need to start stashing some more subtle patterns to pair with all the bold ones I love. Your sunburst block is to die for! You are quite a crafty lady!
ReplyDeleteHi Maureen,
ReplyDeleteI've never replied to your blog before, but i just wanted to give you a big {{{hug}}}. I'm in the exact same place as you are right now. Waiting for numerous test results related to possibly arthritis and/or auto immune diseases (lots and lots of bloodwork, 35 (!) x-rays, 1 abdominal ultra sound, 1 mri, really a lot). I'm not sure how long you've been looking for a diagnosis, but I have since I was 10yrs old (I'm currently 27). It's a tough struggle, people think it's all in your head, doctors,familymembers they just don't believe you.
For years I was 'hoping' for a diagnosis,because I thought it would make things easier, but like you said; the more you know the scarier it gets. I had a really really serious (i know all of them are,but this was one of the most fatal :() auto immune disease showing up in my blood, but doctors think it's a lab error,influenced by another auto immune disease. That's somewhat of a relief and on the other hand life will always feel vulnerable from now on.
You inspire me to carry on sewing, even when in pain :) You make such beautiful things! I can't believe how organized you must be to combine it with kids! :) take care and {{{hug}}}
Sending you a big cyber hug and hoping you feel better.
ReplyDeleteI think your applique would be adorable hoop art--reminding you to Hang In There!! I also LOVE the Washi fabrics.
LeAnn
I think your applique piece would make a gorgeous table topper!!!!
ReplyDeleteI really really love your fox pillows
Love the parts of the improv piece I see so far!
ReplyDeleteI'm wishing you the best with your health. Autoimmune issues can be tricky; I hope your journey through it is smooth and that the doctors give you the absolute best care.
I love all of your work and look forward to reading your blog posts! Autoimmune diseases run in my family big time. My Father had MSA/shydraggers, Mom has Lupis and fibromyalgia, Sister has the same plus rheumatoid aurthritis, Daughter has Graves disease. I have possible MS. It is hard to get any autoimmune disease diagnosed and can take years. You are doing an amazing job!!!!! Just surround yourself with people who love and support you. Whatever you make with the appliqué will be perfect.
ReplyDeletePamela.adams62@gmail.com
It's tough to work through those bad days, but you are doing an awesome job. I hope they can find something that makes the journey easier for you.
ReplyDeleteThinking about you, Maureen. I think the little girl in the applique project looks a lot like you!
ReplyDeleteYou're singing my song today, Maureen. I've not touched a project since Sunday. My own autoimmune issues flared and then I took my 15-year-old in for an ear appointment and learned she's got autoimmune problems. I feel like we've been stuck in the muck of bodies fighting themselves this week. I can so relate to what you're saying. But you've reminded me that creating something is my best way to work past the aches and pains and regain some sort of cheerful perspective. So, I'm promising myself that after this morning's doctor's appointment, I will sew. And while I do, I'll pray for you!
ReplyDeleteI love your little girl on the banner-- she should be out front somewhere. Can't help but imagine a circus tent nearby, or a magic show table.... I don't know much about autoimmune diseases, but I know how much creating can make time stand still; it sure centers me. Another thing is your blog-- I really look forward to seeing your projects and prgress, and it keeps me going too. Hang in there.
ReplyDeleteSending some love your way, Maureen :) Hope you're feeling better today.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear things are tough, hope letting go does the trick and helps you feel better ;)
ReplyDeleteYou've been so busy and it all look fab!
I love the Washi and those dots too.
I think the girl should maybe become part of a mini quilt somehow. I'm thinking circus??!
So sorry to hear that you're having a bad day. I've just been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease too, so understand. Just make sure you look after yourself.
ReplyDeleteYour quilt looks lovely - look forward to seeing more of it.
Take care x
Hey;
ReplyDeleteI found you through Julie at the Intrepid Thread, we are on the same design team for The Quilted Fish... as I was scrolling thru your blog, I caught you mention auto immune diseases. I have had mine for 12 years, and it was tricky to diagnose... I have never met anyone else who has it.
I hope today is a better day for you, Maureen! I can't wait to see that big finish you're hinting of, and I'm really enjoying all of your improv projects!
ReplyDelete