A Year For Change

Hello everyone, welcome to 2025!

I have big news...the Useful Remnants blog will be on pause for a while, starting now. We have several major home projects lined up that will temporarily take me away from quilting. In fact, the sewing room will be all packed up (I'm sure I'll be having withdrawal symptoms).

It's really quite exciting with many busy days and positive changes ahead for us. Sometimes you need to prioritize and focus on what's most important. I'll check in periodically once things settle down or if I get a chance to stitch up a little project.

Meanwhile, y'all keep quilting and if you need ideas, browse through the blog.  I've been writing since January 2011, that's 719 posts and 413 quilting projects. 

Cheers to a happy year ahead!

Signs Of Spring

Here's a sweet quilt that reminds me of April rain and flower blooms.

I used batiks of shades of peony pink, lavender, sky blue, light teal, sunny yellow and grassy green for triangles to accent the calm gray pin dots. 

The backing is pieced using a white and gray wood grain print, strips of 3” x 6” rectangles, along with a section of gray dots.

Signs of Spring is 48” square. I quilted with pale gray thread, doing free motion scribbles diagonally across the blocks. The die is another new design from Blue Wren, called X-Quisite.

April is one of my favorite months. I just feel energized when the weather is warm, with flowers blooming. And, my birthday is in a few days. I think cake and ice cream should be on the menu, don't you?


Dies used:
Blue Wren 6656 X-Quisite 6” finished

Accuquilt
55005 Rectangle 3” x 6” finished
55017 Strip 2½” binding

 

Glorious Day

Aqua, lime and hot pink combined with white and gray make me think of blue skied summer days. For this beauty, I dipped into my scrap baskets and cut with the Glorious Nine Patch die from Blue Wren.

Sixteen blocks, bordered by 3½” strips make a 46” square quilt called Glorious Day. I quilted with light gray thread around the circles, across the centers, and over the block seams. The backing is a gray and white medium floral print.

Glorious Day

On a side note, even though some businesses in Tennessee are reopening, we are still taking precautions and isolating at home. The only exception was Saturday, when we picked up an order of fresh strawberries and bedding plants from a local farm.

The upside to staying home is taking time to enjoy being here, relaxing and just living. I did get a bit too close to nature on my walk the other day, though. I stepped on a big ole snake that was snoozing in a pile of leaves! Scared me to death, but it wasn't poisonous and didn't bite me. I'll stick to walking in the driveway for a while.

Dies used:

Blue Wren 6562 Glorious 9 Patch

Accuquilt 55032 3 ½” strip

Wake up in the morning

with a positive mindset

and a joyful heart.

Be determined

that it will be

a glorious day. 

Double Time

Double Time

Bright crayon colors outlined with white give this quilt a happy feeling. I created double hourglass blocks using two Accuquilt dies: 6 ½” and 3 ½” half square triangles. I had this design idea while working on the small hourglass quilt a few weeks ago.

The border is made up of 2 ½” squares with 2 ½” x 4 ½” rectangles, also cut with AQ dies. I quilted in white thread, using a decorative stitch on the sashing and outlining each square with a straight stitch.  Backing is a blue and white tablecloth check print. Binding is blue and white dots. Double Time finished out at 41” x 51” size, lovely for a wall hanging or child's quilt.

I put a tiny dent in my remnant stash with this one. It gave me an opportunity to sort and cut a few more scraps before I put everything away. I've been making an effort to clean up my space between projects. It's so nice to have clear tables and everything in its place!

You never know

what you have

until you clean out

your closets

Cool Lagoon

This week's quilt is a big one...queen size for our bedroom. I chose fabrics in cool aqua textures, crisp white tone on tone, and a taupe and white print. I experimented with a couple of layouts in EQ8 software before finalizing the design.

Accuquilt's flowering snowball die made cutting and sewing the curves nearly effortless, but it still took a day to cut all the pieces for 64 twelve inch blocks. Large quilts aren't done overnight, so I set aside time each day to stitch a few blocks. 

Though patience is not usually one of my virtues, I enjoyed the process of working on this one. I used wide flannel for batting so it wouldn't be so heavy, then backed it with a white on cream circle print. White thread for quilting in a straight stitch made nice 2” squares in the aqua center sections. An uncomplicated quilting design made it easier to handle this big quilt on my Janome MC9400 home sewing machine. Cool Lagoon is 97” square.

I added a pillow made from my test block, and still need to finish reversible shams, one side in aqua and the other in the cream/white circles. 

A restful summery beach theme was my goal and I love the result. Taupe walls and sandy colored carpet in our bedroom give me the ability to change the look easily by using different colored bedding. 

Decorating with quilts is versatile because their designs can either be the focal point or just compliment other décor. To me, they make a house feel like home.

The ultimate luxury

is being able to

relax and enjoy

your home.

~Jeff Lincoln

Twilight Stars

Twilight Stars

The friendship star block is a fairly easy one, made up of squares and half square triangles. Purple, true blue, and navy batiks with light gray centers show up beautifully against a sky blue background. This 40” x 52” size would be a nice crib or lap quilt. I sewed the top in August and finally quilted Twilight Stars on Saturday.

I put together a little bonus quilt from the scraps, called Grapesicle. I used my new equilateral triangle die to quickly cut pieces, so the front was done in a day. 

Backing is pieced in random strips of pink, purple, and gray, set in two rows. I stitched along the triangles for an overall diamond pattern and bound it with a gray stripe. It measures 22” x 26” and coordinates with the grape walls in my sewing room.

✦✦✦✦

“I just want the simple things. I want to lay on a blanket at twilight and look at the stars. I want to breathe deeply, then exhale out negativity. And I know it is within my power to do just that. So I did. I left crazy drama behind to walk straight toward simplicity and peace. I've never been happier.” – Author Unknown 

 

Tropical Dash

All this warm weather in winter has given me some tropical inspiration. Back in January, I paired brilliant turquoise and coral fabric prints into churn dash blocks set in rows of three to make a colorful, cheery quilt.

For quilting, it seemed right to use bright coral thread in a scallop pattern that looks like waves. The back is one long row of scrap strips, set off center in dark turquoise.  

Finished size is 43” square, perfect for a wall hanging or table topper.

Tropical Dash

Instead of hot chocolate, this 2017 winter calls for coconut rum on the rocks. Hmmm, maybe that's another quilt idea. 

 

True living is

finding paradise

wherever you go.

~Unknown

Find things that shine

and move toward them.

~Mia Farrow

Excellent Suggestion

Potential

po·ten·tial

: capable of becoming real 

 

: a chance or possibility that something will happen or exist in the future

: a quality that something has that can be developed to make it better

: an ability that someone has that can be developed to help that person become successful



Everyone has potential for something: Achievements, personal satisfaction, talent, success. Have you looked for yours? 
 
Clues are all around you. Discover what you do best by seeing what comes naturally. Look within to find who you want to be. Develop your talents and achieve your potential.



Useful Notion: You are confined only by the walls you build yourself.


“Potential is a priceless treasure, like gold. We all have gold hidden within, but we have to dig to get it out.” Joyce Meyer

FOCUS

:a point of convergence 

 

:a state or condition permitting clear perception or understanding 

 

:a center of activity, attraction, or attention

Occasionally it's hard to focus.  Distractions keep you from the things you want in life. Stress, confusion, and negative people make you lose concentration and momentum.

Staying focused on where you want to go helps you stay on track. Take a moment every now and then to reflect on what's important and where you want to focus your attention. You'll gain perspective, peace, and energy to move forward.

Focus on the things you can change and let go of the things you can't. 
 
When life gets blurry, adjust your focus.

Responsibility

re·spon·si·bil·i·ty

: the quality or state of being responsible, answerable, or accountable

: a duty or task that one is required or expected to do

: something that one should do because it is morally right or legally required
: a person or thing for which one is responsible

There are many people in the world who never, ever, take responsibility. They slide through life declaring “It's not my fault” or “That's not my problem.” They lie to cover up mistakes, to get out of sticky situations and to avoid accountability.
 
I prefer those folks who do the right thing. They take care of their family, help others, abide by the rules, and behave in a responsible manner. They are the friends you'd like to have, and the ones you'd rather be around. Most of them do these things automatically, happily and without hesitation, because that's how they are made. 
 
I'm grateful that my parents taught me responsibility, because I expect that the good Lord or karma will hold me accountable one day.  


Useful Notions:
“I believe that we are solely responsible for our choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and thought throughout our lifetime.” ~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

“Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” ~Anthony Robbins

Out With The Old

I believe I've had enough of 2013. Yes, there were good times, fun, and happy days. But there was a lot more stress, sadness, and difficulty than usual for me this year. I am determined to put all that behind me; to move forward into 2014 with a clean slate.

To that end, I have been cleaning house, both physically and mentally. Cleaning and organizing my home puts me in a positive frame of mind. I function better and feel more motivated when things are in order. Purging things I no longer use or need gives me room to enjoy those that I love. Eliminating clutter frees up time and space.

Tossing out old thoughts and negativity clears my head and opens up space for happiness and peace of mind. I'm keeping the lessons learned but losing the difficult experiences. I'm hanging on to happy memories but letting go of sadness. I'm steering away from negative people and moving toward those who make my life better. I'm purging old habits, excuses, and time wasters, so that I can be free to explore new paths.

These last few days of 2013 are for clearing out the old, so I'll have space for what comes in 2014.  Here's hoping for a Happy New Year full of joy and laughter!

“Life is overflowing with the new. But it is necessary to empty out the old to make room for the new to enter.”  -- Eileen Caddy

The Art Of Letting Go

Common sense should tell us that we can't hold on to everything. During our lifetime we will have to let go of possessions, people, pets, pain, and the past. Even knowing this, it can be very difficult because humans tend to resist change. The sooner we accept change, the easier it is to move on.

Letting go frees us to experience more. Making space in our homes creates a calming atmosphere. Releasing anger allows us to find peace. Eliminating negative people from our lives gives us room for new friends. Learning from the past helps us move forward. Replacing bad habits with good ones changes our whole outlook. Releasing control permits us to explore and grow.

So let go. Let go of past problems, bad habits, toxic people, clutter, and negative thoughts. Embrace positive living and focus on today. Remember, we have the power to choose how we experience things in our lives.

“We don't always have to know why. Spending too much time on the why takes away from figuring out what to do next.” --Sandra Beck

Twenty Ways To Take A Break

1. Light a candle
2. Take deep breaths
3. Call a friend
4. Meander around town
5. Pet a furry critter
6. Meditate
7. Listen to music
8. Buy flowers
9. Read or watch something funny
10. Turn off electronics
11. Take a walk outside
12. Watch the clouds
13. Take a bath
14. Let go of something
15. Eat ice cream
16. Dance
    
17. Go stargazing
18. Take a nap
19. Ride your bike
20. Snuggle

Resilience

Merriam-Webster defines resilience as an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change. Some people are naturally capable of managing the stress associated with significant change. Others struggle to adapt as they work through life's challenges. 

Whether natural or learned, resilience involves maintaining flexibility and balance in life. It is definitely a personal journey. Asking for or allowing others to offer help can bring support and focus. Taking time to rest and reflect will energize and strengthen. Going forward with plans for today will create the first step toward a positive path to the future.

“The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists.” 

      – Japanese proverb

"It is not the strongest of the species that survive,
nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change."

     – Charles Darwin

Just For Today

• I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not try to overcome all my problems at once.

• I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind shifts to negative thoughts, I will fill it with positive ones.

• I will enjoy this day that has been given to me. I will pause to take pleasure in my surroundings: the sunset, raindrops, a cup of coffee, a sleeping cat, a colorful flower, or a beautiful melody.

• I will tell my loved ones that they are indeed loved. My actions will reinforce my words, and I will make even little things special for them.

• I will accept what is. I will face reality, correct those things that I can and accept those that I cannot.

• I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort and thought, challenge my brain with memory games and word puzzles, or engage in lively conversation.

• I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I’ll not speak ill of others. I’ll speak softly and not interrupt when others are talking. I’ll refrain from improving anyone but myself.

• I will gather the courage to do what is right. I will take responsibility for my own actions and be true to my beliefs.
    
• I will do something positive to improve my health. I will improve my appearance, eat healthily, get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if only for a few minutes.

• I will take time for myself. I will find peace through loving myself and enjoying my good life. 
  
  
  
  
  ** I'm not sure who originally wrote this list, but it has been modified several times. 

Enjoy Little Things

You might not realize it or take the time to notice, but the little things in life are special. A hug, a smile, or a kind word can make someone's day. Watching the sun rise or set, seeing a hummingbird feed, walking in a field of wildflowers, hearing rain on your roof. The breeze in your hair, the delicate smell of a rose, the call of a whippoorwill, the lapping of waves on the beach. Sitting on the porch, cooking a simple meal, sharing a peaceful moment with someone you love. A glass of wine, a favorite movie, a good book. So many images, scents, tastes, sounds, and feelings come to mind. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, think about what brings you joy.

“Everyone is trying to accomplish something big, not realizing that life is made up of little things.” ~ Frank Howard Clark

Busy Spring Days, Iris, and A Rainbow

Pretty spring days absolutely energize me. I start my day drinking coffee on the porch these warm sunny mornings, then head to the craft room. My latest wall hanging is a reversible one patch quilt using the tumbler block. I finished it during this week's thunderstorms and hail. Tumbling Sea and Sand on one side and Hexes Afloat on the back. 

There is so much to do in spring, I just love this season and it makes me so happy! I've been inspired to clean house, start restocking the camper, wash my car, weed flower beds, and pull out a few of my lighter clothes. We've had the windows open and laundry drying on the line. How did I get all this done when I was working?

Projects seem to sprout almost as fast as the grass, weeds and flowers. Have you noticed that everything is coming in about two weeks ahead of schedule?  We already mowed our grass, and this early iris bloomed yesterday.

The luck of the Irish was with us on St. Patrick's Day. Even though several thunderstorms rumbled throughout the day, we enjoyed seeing a perfect double rainbow low in the northeast sky.  It disappeared before I could get my camera.

Useful Notion: Nature's glorious colors blend and contrast in very pleasing combinations. Use them for home décor, crafts, makeup and fashion. There's no prettier palette than the one right outside your door.

“Life is like a rainbow. You need both the sun and the rain to make its colors appear.” 

 

Does Your Life Feel Like Groundhog Day?

Are you doing the same things over and over again? Waiting for something different to happen? 

Remember Phil, in the film Groundhog Day? “I told you. I wake up every day, right here, right in Punxsutawney, and it's always February 2nd, and there's nothing I can do about it.”

Our lives sometimes become a little too routine, predictable and monotonous. While routines are comforting and useful, they can feel stifling if your whole life revolves around them. You get into a rut, do the same things every day, and wonder where the time went at the end of the week.

You can do something about it. Keep your basic routines, but get them done and out of the way so you have time for fun. Break out of your normal pattern. You don't have to do something drastic or life-altering. Any small change will give your daily life more variety.

Explore something new. Take a different route to work. Do something nice for someone. Change your hairstyle. Try a new menu item. Choose a different color shirt. Make an appointment with yourself to enjoy a hobby that you love. Go for a walk outside. Rearrange your furniture. Buy flowers for no reason. Take a class. Buy shoes. Call an old friend or make a new one. 

And, above all...enjoy your life! The groundhog really doesn't know if spring is coming, so you can't depend on him to tell you what to do. Life's much too short to wait around for something to happen. It's up to you to make the most of the life you choose.

“The tragedy of life is not that it ends so soon, 

but that we wait so long to begin it.”  

~ W.M. Lewis

Think About This: Random Quotes

This week has been a relaxing one, but with a few twists and turns along the way. I came across these quotes and found them interesting. 
 

“Maybe you called it right the first time. Synchronicity. Life isn't a series of random events at all, but rather an expression of a deeper order.” --Billy McCall

“Go ahead and ask the questions that must be asked. Say the things that need to be said. Perform the tasks that are to be done. Follow the dreams that flow from who you most sincerely are. Put thought into what you say and do, yet refrain from being paralyzed by an excess of imagined scenarios.” --Ralph Marston 

“Focus not on past regrets, but on tomorrow’s opportunities. Regret weighs a ton. Living with words spoken or unspoken, deeds done or deeds left undone, and actions taken or not taken is one of the biggest burdens people can carry. Living with regret will not allow happiness, joy, energy, and peace back into your life. Regret is like a long shadow darkening the path behind you as well as the way ahead. If your focus is on yesterday’s regrets, then by your own choice, you allow them to be part of your tomorrow.” --Bryan Dodge

Decline to be caught up in wasteful, destructive power struggles.” --Author Unknown

“Someone is going to criticize what you do. Do it anyway. If you truly desire it, and believe in it, and know it’s worthwhile, then it’s something you are meant to do.” --Ralph Marston

“Even someone who is agreeable and charming may have some devious intentions. Do not let yourself trust people just because they seem trustworthy -- wait for proof! Watch for people who are smiling broadly today -- they may have something to hide.” –Daily Horoscope

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