Thursday 17 September 2020

Gardening and Applique Rewards, Too Old for April Cornell?, Fabric Ambassadors Needed

 This week was a whoosh. My guess is I must have been having a whale of a time, never mind just fun. 

Is it because I was a teacher that September still feels like a fresh start somehow. Because I do seem to have that "new start" feeling. Kind of invigorating and here's hoping it lingers. And that's another thing I love about living where there are seasons. As each rolls around it provides a perfect opportunity for a new beginning.

I've been rewarded for my gardening efforts in two tiny ways.

First of all, the Madagascar Jasmine did very well outdoors and grew lots of new leaves. The final glory was when it sent out a blossom, the first since Christmas when it arrived already in bloom.

Here is the start of the indoor gardening.
And the second thing...I planted a little flowering Weigela bush back in May and it too did well this summer. I was happy to see it send out a few blooms before the fall weather sets in in earnest. 
 I'm relieved it has obviously rooted well and I look forward to it blooming for many years.

Am I too old for April Cornell? I've always had a skirt or jumper in my closet often bought at thrift stores. I still love their stuff-their attention to details is the best- and have one summer skirt still and several table cloths. Here is a link to view their array of pretty things.

 I was thinking I'm too old for it now but this catalog features a model who looks to be about my age which is kind of clever of them to think of us aged hippies. So maybe that is meant to answer my question. 

She's wearing a velvet tunic in this photo...very elegant though comfy but sadly I have no cause to wear such an item, especially these quarantined days. 

✅I've been meaning to post this...the folks at Michael Miller Fabrics are looking for ambassadors for their fabrics. You can read all about it here. Many of you, my talented blogging friends, would qualify I'm sure so please check out the duties.  The thought of getting free beautiful fabric is enticing!!

This female cardinal is looking a little rough around the edges and seemed to be taking a  rest in the grass. I thought she might have some horrible disease and then realized she is more than likely molting.

                                 

The male is also not looking as splendid as he did at the start of the summer.  However, it always feels special when I get to see them both at the same time in the garden.

My patience held up and the Flower Garden project is now a flimsy!  Have to get a backing and batting to make it up. 

 After much pressing of seams into submission and using a little spray starch, this will suit some big stitch quilting I'm thinking.

And here is my version of Susan Smith's pretty Solidarity Block, all hand applique like the Flower Garden.

This little panel was included in a fabric bundle I received last month.  Love the saying!

39 comments :

grammajudyb said...

Loved seeing your garden photos! I really need to start thinking...perennials! I’m getting too old for all the maintenance and labor that annuals require! Wish I was slim like the model in the April Cornell catalog. It’s a new brand for me, I’m going to peruse it a bit! Happy Thursday!

Michele Morin said...

You've got some great projects going on there, Jocelyn!
We also love our cardinal friends.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

love your indoor garden! I wish I had a bay window or good enough light in the winter to do that. I will check out the ambassador link - usually too much is needed to participate in my mind but that is because I don't like being on a schedule maybe?

Brian's Home Blog said...

Your garden goodies all look terrific and we always enjoy seeing those pretty Cardinals!

LA Paylor said...

molting always reminds me of Harry Potter and the phoenix. Two cool links to look at, thank you for that! And... I'm watching videos with Ann Patchett and want to be friends with her, and isn't she pretty? and so clever and funny... thank you for suggesting that too. Flowering jasmine... oh how sweet

Mary in Peoria Handmade said...

We’re never too old for pretty clothes! That Jasmine plant is so healthy and lovely. I can almost smell the fragrance. I can’t wait to see the Flower Garden finished.

Home Sewn By Us said...

Hi Jocelyn! That last photo, I think, could also be changed slightly to wear what you love. You are absolutely NOT too old for April Cornell!! And that pretty velvet tunic - just think how sinfully nice that would feel when you're wearing it. Life is too short to worry about you can or can't wear. I say order it and enjoy it until it's threadbare. And the two cardinals in your garden - they just fill me with joy. Thanks for sharing an update on your Flower Garden - your patience is rewarded with such a pretty finish. Happy Thursday to you, my friend. ~smile~ Roseanne

Carol- Beads and Birds said...

I had wonderful Weigela back home that I nursed from sticks. I didn't have the heart to try to bring them to CA with me. Hopefully my daughter is taking care of them. I don't dare ask in case she's not. I'm going to check out that catalog. Nope, we hippies are never too old to wear cool clothes unless they are very sheer, mini, very low cut. My mantra is Does this make me look like Joan Rivers? If the answer is yes I know it's wrong.
xx, Carol

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Too old? What in the world do you mean? hahaha! When I say, I'm too old for...fill in the blank! I can't even think of anything! We're NEVER too old for beautiful clothes, that's for sure! Love your cute little Cardinal too! I'm going to look at the catalog...I wonder if I can afford something! I hope so!

Sherrie said...

Hi Jocelyn,
Really like your flowers..the red one is beautiful. I do a lot of ordering from Anthony Richards..they have long nightgowns and summer dresses that I love. Your Flower Garden is beautiful...can't wait to see it finished. Like the Do What You Like...is it fabric or embroidery? Have a great day!

Nancy J said...

Love the second photo, order it, and wear it at least once a week, coffee on the front porch maybe, or a walk in your garden, before the cold days set in. The words on the panel say it all, so enjoy every a new outfit. Never too old. Do you bring in many plants to winter over inside? or have a sheltered verandah? Here, I think one shrub succumbed after 3 frosts in a row, but the very low branch might still shoot again this summer.

LIttle Penguin Quilts said...

You have some pretty blooming things there, Jocelyn! Are the cardinals losing their bright colors because of the time of year? We've noticed the house finches and goldfinches here do that. Your Flower Garden blocks are lovely! I'm curious about how you are planning to finish the outside edge - are you going to keep its shape as it is now?

Libby in TN said...

Love your flower gardens, both the green and the stitched! Our birds are molting, too.

Susie H said...

So nice to see the last hurrah to summer with your last few blooms. Cardinals are a favorite of mine too!

Jenny said...

Congratulations on your flower garden stars, and yes, I think big stitch quilting will suit it very well.
As for the lovely fashion book, why not go and order that lovely velvet tunic? I'm sure it would suit you, and sooner or later you will be out celebrating again with friends and family. I seem to remember that you had exciting trips with your daughter in the past, just think how posh you would look enjoying a nice dinner with her wearing something new!

Magpie Sue said...

I love looking at the April Cornell catalogs. Haven't plumped for a purchase yet though. I also love your applique pot of flowers - and the panel!

Rosemary Dickinson said...

You certainly have a green thumb. Your plants always look so pretty and healthy. I'll have to look into April Cornell. I'm not sure I've heard of her. Your Flower Garden quilt top is beautiful. I love your work. Love the cheerful Solidarity Block.

piecefulwendy said...

I think you should wear what you like and not worry about the age factor too much. I'm not familiar with that company, so I'll have to check it out. The cardinals do look a bit rough when they go through a molt, don't they?!

Siouxzq64@gmail.com said...

Oh I love Weigla, I have one that has gotten to be a mighty bush outside my dining room window. I like the scent. Your applique is so pretty. And your stars are Wow. Yep she is molting just like my chickens. Great likes.

PaintedThread said...

Love your flower garden flimsy! Yay for gardening. Enjoy doing what you love!

Needled Mom said...

I’ve always loved April Cornell. The tunic top is very sophisticated looking. I wish we had cardinals here. They are such stunning birds. Great job on your thriving plants!

dq said...

Lovely progress on the stars quilt and GORGEOUS applique planter block.

I liked reading about the flowers that did well outside and are now inside. Maybe it is because I brought my geraniums inside so they would not freeze. I think I will keep them inside till spring.

Yvonne said...

My Mom always had the Madagascar Jasmines, wich are called Stephanotus here in the Netherlands. I guess that is the Latin name for the plant. Love the smell of it.
You have been making pretty stars. And I think the velvet outfit will look very pretty on you. Even if you can only wear it at home.

MissPat said...

You must be thrilled that the jasmine has rebloomed. And the Flower Garden blocks have come together nicely. I'm keeping an eagle eye on the temperature forecast and hope I can get away with throwing some sheets over the geraniums and begonias as I won't have time to clean them up to bring them inside. I say you should wear whatever makes you feel good. Since I've retired, I wear nothing but comfort clothes, jeans and t's and sweatshirts. And Sketchers on my feet. Don't go anywhere I need to dress up anyway.
Pat

Judy Biggerstaff said...

Beautiful photos! My plants look great and love your quilting projects. Our temps are going to be lower starting today. We have lots of cardinals in our area and have loved the hummingbirds this year.

Linda said...

Seeing your jasmine reminds me I want to root some of mine to take with me to north Texas. Also I have a shoot off my wisteria that might travel with us.
Your flower garden and appliques are so pretty. I agree, big stitch quilting will look wonderful.

eileeninmd said...

Hello,
Great saying "Do what you love". Your Jasmine and Weigela are both pretty. I love the stars quilt! Cute captures of your Cardinals. Take care, enjoy your day! Wishing you a happy weekend!

Magpie's Mumblings said...

The jasmine flowers look so pretty. Never heard of April Cornell before so had fun peeking through their web site...thank you. Great photos of the cardinals, bedraggled or not!

Veronica Lee said...

I enjoyed seeing those pretty birds!

Love your fabulous garden!

Michele McLaughlin said...

Love your garden and floral textiles! The Flower garden is amazing and so is your applique project (love that red!). Congrats on getting the jasmine to bloom! I think you will love how quickly your weigelia will grow! Have a wonderful week!

Chopin - A Passionate Quilter said...

The Stars are very pretty. The Susan Smith block really pops - love the colors. Your pictures are so relaxing to view - especially the pretty birds! Hugs

eileeninmd said...

Hello Jocelyn,
I just love your star quilt. Pretty capture of the Cardinals. They always seem to be seen in pairs. Your flowers are gorgeous, I would love to have some Jasmine growing here. Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, enjoy your day! Have a happy weekend! PS, thank you for leaving me a comment.

Martha said...

Great photos. I especially love the little cardinals :)

betty-NZ said...

It's exciting to see your patience and care pay off with the flowers! I love your critters and quilt. As for the clothes, I am the wrong person to give advice :)

Your link at 'My Corner of the World' is greatly appreciated!! I'm glad to see you this week!

Anonymous said...

Your flowers so pretty! And I love the photos of the cardinals. There are very few things I miss from when I lived in the Midwest, but seeing cardinals is one of them. And I love your flimsy! It will be featured in this week’s Creative Compulsions.

Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com

Michelle said...

Love seeing your quilt work. My grandmother was a talented quilter, but she didn't pass that along to me...sadly! Thanks for linking up and have a great week ahead.

Powell River Books said...

Cardinals are so pretty. We don't have them here on the west coast. You do beautiful needlework. - Margy

Karrin Hurd said...

Lovely flowers and pictures of the cardinals! Love the April Cornell style though not familiar with it. Always a pleasure seeing your beautiful garden!

Arun Goyal said...

Lovely blooms. Madagascar Jasmine looks stunning . It would be my pleasure f you join my link up party related t o gardening here at http://jaipurgardening.blogspot.com/2020/09/garden-affair-ornamental-aquatic-plants.html