2013......a bit of a ROLLER COASTER RIDE

As I reflect over the past year, the words UNEXPECTED, CHANGE, TRANSITION and LOSS come to mind. Blogging is a bit like keeping a journal, something I have never had any success at, in the past. So, to realize I have been consistently blogging for the past three years is exciting. It's wonderful to be able to look back over the last years...lest I forget things, which I have been known to do on occasion, alright on a regular basis.

First things first, in the year 2012, I was shocked to discover only one quilt finish....I made a conscious decision to change that.

I'm pleased to report SEVEN finishes in the year 2013!!!!

Entering Ripple Effect II in the Modern Quilt Challenge and having it win first place in the Piecing Category was definitely a highlight. Having my quilt travel for a year is the icing on the cake......I do love my icing!!! 

An unexpected request, from Meander publishing, to write a two part article on Quilt-As-You-Go proved to be rather challenging as I had to do my own photography as well, but seeing my work published....so rewarding.

 Another unexpected call led to Aura I  featured in the Limelight section of Modern Quilts Unlimited. I was actually standing in Staples getting Ripple Effect II ready for mailing, when my cell phone rang. Next thing I knew, I was off doing a photo shoot at Beacon Hill Park.

Having Colour Shot in Amy Ellis's article, in Modern Patchwork, was another lovely surprise. I ordered the magazine not realizing it was in there....so yes I admit....... it sort of really made my day!!!

So glad Leanne talked me into going to Quilt Con!!!!!!! 

Teaching at my first retreat.......an amazing experience for me, with a retreat recap still to come.

Moving.....which occurred a few days after the retreat, crazy times!!! 

I actually learned to love leeches .......now that is UNEXPECTED. 

My son experienced loss, but I'm so happy to report he has not lost his positive spirit.......a hero in my eyes. Love you, Mark!!!!

Speaking of loss.......I'm forty pounds down since last year at this time, and my knees are thanking me!!

It's been a year of ups and downs....I hit my sixtieth birthday and my fortieth wedding anniversary, milestones indeed. Some days the roller coaster ride left me reeling......did I mention I'm not particularly fond of roller coasters?? So in the midst of personal triumph, there have been tears as well........my hope is to find  creative inspiration in both.

Here's to a wonderful New Year

Marianne

My Bags are Packed....

 I'm ready to go.......

ALMOST that is IS!!! 

Why do I leave these things to last minute????? It's 10:30 pm here and I have to leave for the airport at 4 am. 

But, I had a slight interruption ...that threw me off my game, which is not hard to do since I get fairly scattered the minute I start packing.

I've been working on a two part article for Machine Quilting Unlimited......and here it is. I took a few quick shots of the digital version.

I'm beside myself with excitement. I was a little stressed throughout the whole experience because it involved my own photography and writing...not like Circles for Paige where the magazine did the photography and writing.

And I did manage to do a little quilting this week....  Isn't Ethne's Free Bee Block amazing???

And now back to packing, before I miss my flight to Austin....See you at Quilt Con and if not, I hope to keep you updated.

Published!!

I'm feeling a little flustered and overwhelmed.

 When I started blogging two years ago, it never occurred to me that it would result in one of my quilts being published.

But here I am.....pinch me or am I dreaming??