The Splendid Sampler-Block #4-Happy, Happy

Happy! Happy! Isn't that a popular phrase due to the "duck hunters" on TV? Or perhaps the song "Happy" by Pharrell Williams which just happens to be my ringtone?

Jen Kingwell of Kingwell Designs created this block featuring her love for appliqué.

I just used my machine blanket stitch for my vase and stitched the flowers in a rather scrappy way.  May re-do this block later and attempt hand appliqué since I have two of her books and handwork appeals to me but I was on a roll with the machine and didn't quit.

Even though my block doesn't quite please me, I'm happy with it.  It's all about attitude.  Happiness is a state of mind!  

Happy stitching,

Renee

The Splendid Sampler-Block #3-Lots of Love

Life is SPLENDID!  This block reminded me of all the love shown to me from family and friends these past 5 years...I've learned a lot about nurturing, sharing, caring and giving your time to help someone else in need.

The third block in the Splendid Sampler was created by Melissa Corry of Happy Quilting.

I'll have to say, I was surprised at how difficult this block really was.  Ripping, starting over, having warped fabric from ripping and sewing again, then finally cutting new fabrics for 3 more little heart blocks.  I was pleasantly surprised with the directional fabrics and how well they matched at the seams.  Wonkiness overcome!!!

With my SPLENDID  life comparison, it reminds me of how much I have learned about loving others.  Sometimes love is awkward and frustrating, but turns out so beautiful!  I no longer feel awkward visiting someone in the hospital, saying hello to a stranger with a deftly tied scarf and no eyebrows and the time taken from my day to make the visit or cook a meal is so rewarding!

Splendid and sewing!

Renee

The Splendid Sampler-"Wings"-Block #2

I'm working on the Splendid Sampler as much as life allows...that is the SPLENDID thing about quilting...it is always right where I left it when I return.

This block came all the way from Australia from Jane Davidson, the other co-creater of The Splendid Sampler, along with Pat Sloan.

My block taught me perseverance....also something needed in life.  I see the little pieces and how they need to line up "just so" in order to create the "wings" for the butterflies.  Did you know that the metamorphosis timeframe is 10-15 days for most butterflies?  I didn't feel quite so bad about how long it took me to get this block to my liking.  Sometimes things don't go exactly as planned, but that's life....A SPLENDID life!

Always in stitches,
Renee