Thursday, October 7, 2010

Barn Quilts

I just recently learned of a project called "The Barn Quilt Trail". I'm not sure how long ago this started but, it is a project where, in rural areas where there are lots of barns, farmers take it upon themselves to create 8x8 foot wooden, painted quilt squares and attach them to the sides of their barn! I happened across quite a few of these up in Kewanee County, Wis. this summer. Then I accidentally discovered that there are about 30 of these barn quilts at different locations in Kankakee county in Illinois!!! There is a web-site (It's part of a U. of Illinois Extension project) and on the web-site is a map to all the locations!!! SO.....It's a beautiful fall day and I LOVE to go out exploring country roads......so I think I'm off to Kankakee County for the day!!! Just need to pack a lunch, grab a camera and GO!!!!! My mom would have loved this!!!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Seize the Day!!!

Well, shoulder surgery is all set for October 25th---gulp!! That gives me a good 3 weeks to organise my life, catch up on everything I'm behind in, buy a new computer, prepare for my son's birthday, lose 20 pounds....you don't think I'm being a little unrealistic, do you?!?!?!? It's funny how the thought of being somewhat incapacitated for awhile can really spur you on to get things done!

On the creative front, I signed up for the "Make your Mark" journal project at the Lagrange Art League this past weekend. I went there on Saturday to pick up my journal and take a workshop on some very fun and creative ways to get started!! So hopefully, while I'm "one armed" for awhile I can use my other arm to start making many marks in the journal. It's funny though, how intimidating it is to make the "first mark"!!

And on another positive note, my Artist's Way group at the Center has started up again!! I really missed this group this summer---more than EVER!!! They are so dear to my heart and it really lifts my spirits just to walk into the Lodge where we meet!!

And another creative activity that I'm enjoying.....making a handmade book with coptic binding....a 2 session workshop with Marge Boyd. These would make great gifts but not sure I can handle it one-handed!! So glad the final session is before surgery!!

Well, time to go seize this beautiful day!! (not sure about the spelling of seize!!)