This is Not a Resolution

I NEVER make New Year's resolutions, because I just feel like making resolutions is a recipe for failure. I feel the same way about goal setting sessions. Does that make me an underachiever? Whatever- that's my philosophy.

However, I do have a goal for 2011. It is a quilting/crafting goal. There are so many different and unique quilting techniques out there and I know that there is no way that I can ever try them all. But there are a few that I have bookmarked to accomplish. My goal this year is to make them happen. I've already started, with pinwheels. And so far I love them! They are so fun and quick. I'm using this tutorial and it's a revelation. You really should go check it out.
(photo from Kate Conklin)
I bought this quilt pattern with some money from Christmas. I'm excited to try curved piecing and what could be better than a quilt inspired by the sea! (photo from My Three Sons)
I think cathedral windows are so striking. And I'm all about not reinventing the wheel so I'm looking forward to any hints I can get. I'm even branching out into other mediums. I was invited to join a card group with some ladies at my church, and although I do very little with scrapbooking or paper crafting I decided that I'd like to try it out. I've committed to a year of making cards. This is my card for February's meeting, and I have to admit that I love how it turned out.

One last new endeavor for me this year is smocking. A friend volunteered to teach me how to smock a dress for Kennedy. My previous ventures into clothes making have not gone well so I'm a bit nervous. But my friend promised me that it was doable so we'll see how it goes.

So here's to not making resolutions but still having a plan in mind to get a few things done this year!

Just Add Milk and Cookies

I know that this project is either very early or very late depending on how you see the world. But I just had to make one of Jodi's mug rugs for Santa. This project was really fun and came together quickly. Now I want to go and make a few more, but how many does one family need? I can't wait for Kennedy to be old enough to write Santa a letter to slip in that little pocket.I used some of my Riley Blake, Be Merry fabric that I've been hording since last year. I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to put some Night Before Christmas on the back of Santa's little rug. Also, note to self- next Christmas buy a mug and saucer to match, instead of a pink plaid one you've had since grade school.

Unrelated FYI- I posted some quilted note cards into my Etsy shop, so if you are looking for a unique card to send to the quilter/fabric lover/anyone in your life check them out here.