Lone Star Medallion, Pink Rainbow House, Free Pretty Patterns

I normally want to cling to my time but have to admit I'm glad this week is almost over. There are some things you just want behind you. But there is always good stuff happening too...life is not static thankfully. I felt off my routine so pushed myself to exercise this morning and jog the trail with Ned. I am better for the fresh air and activity.

Oh the greening up of everything outside is just wonderful to witness. Kitchen window view yesterday. That's the faucet there in the almost middle.

Here is a small Song Sparrow and I was happy with this photo. A reminder to keep up a hobby I enjoy- photography. Look at the new buds on the fir tree.

Tony and his biking buddies had their first ride of the season and enjoyed it very much. He's been riding with some members of the group for many decades. They are very careful and ride back roads during the week days. And have their favourite haunts to stop for lunch. 

Well, in time out is the EPP Lone Star Medallion quilt. Here is the only photo I have on hand and here it is still in the templates. They are all out now.

I've had to unpick hand quilted lines twice, yes twice on this piece. First time after stitching one of the diamonds-that was tough after so much stitching. I didn't like my stitches- too uneven. Second time, it was just hard to stitch through the layers and hurt my fingers. I could see why my stitches were not great. So I dismantled the layers, trimmed more of the seam fabric and am giving myself a little break from it. I am pleased with how it is all holding up with the whole thing being hand stitched though. 

Happily, I had better luck in the sewing room with this-  the pink house sporting  the dresden block has been added to my Rainbow Neighbourhood. Dappled sunlight is so pretty too. Overall so bright!

Definitely the house all the neighbours would be talking about. 

LeeAnna at Not Afraid of Color's prompt this week was have we had any close encounters with celebrities. I've seen quite a few singing celebrities over the years  in St.John's. Off the top of my head...The Turtles, Kitty Wells, Nana Mouskouri, Willie Nelson, Gordon Lightfoot, Paul Anka, but never close up. 

 For instance I was one of 20000 women who saw Oprah Winfrey when she did a talking concert here in Ottawa. My husband at the time once saw Paul Newman in a northern Canadian airport. Decades ago and he had four bodyguards with him. He certainly did not need them in that setting so I wonder how many he would need in these times. What shocked then hubby was how short Paul was and how old he looked. 

Little towns around here are often used for shooting the Hallmark Christmas movies. Just this week, one of them, Carleton Place, had their main street taken over by a film crew shooting one called A Christmas Homecoming. Christmas decorations and fake snow all over the place. I'm not sure if any of these actors really count as celebrities as such. What about you...have you had any close encounters with celebrities?

Great Stuff and Free too!

Wonderful Gayle at Sentimental Stitches is offering all the free patterns to make a quilt called Dream Garden. Each block features an appliqued flower with embroidered embellishments. So pretty. Wish I could show you more but you'll have to visit that link to see how simple and sweet the blocks are. Could be interesting too with modern fabrics.

All People Quilt I found this sweet table runner and it seems like an easy quick one too. Full instructions with templates are to be found there. Rhoda Nelson designer.

Amanda Gregory has this lovely cross stitch pattern as a free download at her link...Strawberry Heart. Thank you Amanda for sharing your talents with us. 

Daughter and I did get to the spa for a Mother's Day treat. I'll share a photo soon. Hope everyone reading this has the best weekend ever!

Linking this post with wonderful parties...Quilting Patchwork Applique, Quilting is More Fun Than Housework, Small Quilts and Doll Quilts,  Kathy's Quilts and Quilt Fabrication.