Strawberry Fields FOREVER

The strawberries are coming in full blast, 

so full in fact, they're dropping to the sidewalk before turning.

The ants are feasting on the berries as they begin to change color.

 But I'd rather give a few up to mother nature than treat my kids to pesticide flavored berries.

We're in the midst of researching organic methods of control

and will probably have a few laughs along the way.

Our first introduction to natural means research was 

cardboard slathered in sugar & syrup and dipped in yeast 

{which requires reapplication throughout the patch after every rain 

and at least once a week}.

...I'm not sure how natural that process really is.

There must be a simpler solution.

After all, I'm just happy the strawberries are growing. 

We planted them on a whim for the kids.

They've learned a lot along the way

and shared the process with their friends.

Everything else is a bonus.

A cherry on top, if you will.

Sunshine wishes,

Heather

One vase at a time.

I have Siberian irises in bloom.

The daffodils are still blooming, too...

seeing both together is a little strange

but nice. 

Very nice.

I'm looking forward to gathering an armful of irises this week

as I begin to bring the outside in

one vase at a time.

piece.

Heather

Shipping Deal----INTERNATIONAL, too!!

Erica's does it again. 

The anniversary sale is going on...no coupons required.

This is the quilt shop's 38th year in business.

FREE US SHIPPING

&

HALF PRICE INTERNATIONAL!!

You'll want to check out the site to get the full details

before you shop 'til you drop.

Many of the 30s reproductions in the collection comes from Erica's. 

I also purchase YLI silk thread, great gadgets & books here, too. 

They have an amazing amount of inventory and a fantastic staff. 

Though I call it a 'local shop', South Bend is about an hour and half drive from here. 

I rarely get to make the trip but when I do it's a real treat! 

Erica's has also shipped an order or two to the house. 

For those of you on the hunt for some fabric {and really, who isn't??} 

or supplies, check it out before May 15th.

Happy Shopping,

Heather

We're Playing Outside!

Spring is in full swing at the Fab home. 

We're playing ball, drawing with chalk all over the driveway &

 running barefoot in the grass....and loving every second of it!

If you'll notice the toes at the base of the hosta on the right, they should provide a bit of perspective on how big this one's getting these days. 

*violets!*

{I just transplanted a few more....shhh.....Mr. Fabulous does not quite 

share the same level of enthusiasm for these little beauties}

I hope you've enjoyed the little tour...

coming soon:

the strawberry patch!

Enjoy a day in the sun

as we begin the count down to summer break.

Heather

Traditional Block: English Ivy Revisited

English Ivy antique quilts in museum collections 

date back to 1830...

though I'm still on the hunt for even older versions.

In my research, I came across the same pattern

entitled Clover Blossom.

RSVP quilt block: English Ivy

With this information, I was able to

track down free instructions:

Clover Blossom on the Quilter's Casche FREE 12" finished pattern.

Here's to hoping you enjoy the block

as much as I have.

Happy Piecing,

Heather