Can you say BUSY?

OMG!
Busy doesn't even describe it!
Right after my last post telling y'all about my latest project my right hand (yes of course I'm right handed) started hurting. Went to the dr. and I've got tendinitis! If y'all have ever had that you know how bad that hurts. It's in my thumb so....everything I do hurts. From what I understand it takes forever for it to get better and finally go away. Now my project in on hold.

My friend Wilma did tell me she would help me digitize the pattern so I could do it on the machine but I love handwork. We'll see what I finally decide to do.

I've been listing a few things in my two online store but have been so busy in my "real job" to do much. Getting ready for our local Shop Hop, training a new receiving clerk and just staying busy ordering product for our three stores and website.

Shop Hop was so much fun. The store gave away so many door prizes and we had so many NEW products it was hard for our customers to decide. Our common quilt was set in 4 different settings and while we all used the same fabrics for the 12 blocks (each store designed it's own block using the same fabrics) our finishing kits were so different you had to look closely to realize the fabrics were the same.

Art Fire store is going well...still waiting on my first sale. I keep reminding myself that it takes a while to build a business. I honestly believe that even in this economy it is THE time to work...work...work to refine your business.

I've taken on a position in my online guild as the Guild Master. However, I am not alone. Three other guild members and I have formed an Administration Team. We are working together to further Sew What guild. This is a general sewing guild for everyone who loves to create with fabrics and threads. And our mission statement is:
To mentor, inspire, create, and to improve our skills and techniques while making friends.

Come check us out at Art Fire. Do a search in guilds for SEW WHAT. We have great talent in our group.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

NEW QUILTING TECHNIQUE

I'm learning a new quilting technique that is quilting in the embroidery hoop on my Bernina machine!


My latest project is a hand embroidery black and white sun & moon. When I'm done with the embroidery the plans are to do crazy quilting around the 12" square block in my blacks and whites. I'm on the look out for a RED that will work...and I think I've found it. (Where you ask....? Well, at It's A Stitch of course.) LOL

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

Sending a big hello out to PORT MANSFIELD...and my brother and sister-in-law.

Visit HandmadeWithLove's ArtFire Shop

Here are my lastest additions to ART FIRE.
Enjoy.
Susan
aka Grandma

www.handmadewithlove.artfire.com
www.grandpagrandmasattic.etsy.com

ONLINE SWEETHEART SALE

It's A Stitch is the quilt store where I work.
Feb. 12-14 we are having an "SWEETHEART" sale. This is not only an in store sale but also a web sale.

To see all the wonderful items on sale go to: www.itsastitchonline.com

You will be pleasantly surprised. Or if you are local...Houston, TX area just drop by and see and feel the fabric. Some is as much as 60% off! What a great time to add to your stash!

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

Quilting Ideas

Here are a few links to some of my favorite sites for quilting ideas. Let me know what you think.

Connecting Threads
www.connectingthreads.com -
This site has fabrics for $5.96 per yard, fabric kits, patterns, notions and books with free shipping on all web orders over $50.00
They also have a blog at http://quiltwithus.connectingthreads.com/
Many friendly quilters share their ideas and passions.

Clotilde
www.clotilde.com -
Clotilde helps you find what you need for all your quilting needs. Here are a few:
*Acid-free tissue
*Applique scissors and pressing sheet
*Patterns: Aprons, Quilting, Posie Patch....and....and....and...get the idea?
*Books
*Notions

You might want to go online and check them out.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

CRAFTER EXTROIDENAIRE

CRAFTER EXTRAORDINAIRE

Believing that the HANDMADE Crafting Community is so extra ordinary I've decided to help promote others as well as myself.

If we don't "TOOT" one anothers' gifts and abilities who will.

So the first featured artist is Crochet by Momma J.

Momma was my very first follower here in THE QUILTING ATTIC so I thought it was fitting to feature her shop first.

What is your name?

Marianne Jackson

Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you married? Children?

I am married to my husband of 15 years and have 3 beautiful daughters-ages 3, 7 and 13.

What sort of items do you have in your shop?

My shop has a variety of crochet items - from afghans to baby booties to scarves and much more.

How long have you been doing your craft?

I started when I was pregnant with my now 7 year old. A co-worker taught me during our lunch breaks, and I just fell in love with it.

How long have you had your Etsy shop and what made you decide to take that step to open it?

I opened my shop just this past August. I've always wanted to have a little shop of my own and one day my 13 year old told me about Etsy. I checked out Etsy and just went for it, so I guess I owe it all to my daughter!

Do you have any upcoming projects that you want to share with us?

Yes I do have a little secret that I've told a few folks about . . . I have decided to open up a second shop - this one will be for jewelry. I've reserved my Etsy shop name but am going to build up inventory before "going public" with it. Keep a watch for it soon!

You can also find Momma J at the following links:

www.crochetbymommaj.etsy.com www.crochetbymommaj.blogspot.com www.jewelrybymommaj.etsy.com (nothing listed yet in this one)

THANK YOU for sharing Marianne and good luck in your new venture....remember ladies and gentlemen we may have been the first to hear about Jewelry by Momma J right here on The Quilting Attic!!

PLEASE NOTE: ALL PHOTOS ARE OF CROCHETBYMOMMAJ SHOP.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan aka Grandma
www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
www.GrandpaGrandmasAttic.etsy.com

SATURDAY MORNINGS

I love Saturday mornings. Not just b/c I get to stay in bed longer but because my favorite crafting shows come on our local PBS station.

*Beads Bobbles and Jewels

*Fons & Porters' Love of Quilting

*Sewing with Nancy

*Martha Pulin

These are just a few of the inspirational shows that get my creative juices going.


Then, I get to spend the day with DH (Rick) and DD (Ashley).
Tonight will be a special treat we get to spend time with our oldest DD (Angi) and her family. Rick's sister and her DH will be there also. It will be so much fun...I'm so looking forward to the visit. Any time I can spend with my family is always an added blessing to my day.

Taking the lead from fellow Blogger and Etsy shop extraordinaire Crochet by Momma J's
(http://crochetbymommaj.blogspot.com/)I will be adding a new section to my blog very soon:

***Interviews with fellow artisans on Etsy. Look for an invitation in your email box if you are one of my favorites. Since there are many more of you than of me...it will take a while.


In and Because of HIM,
Susan aka Grandma
www.GrandpaGrandmasAttic.etsy.com
www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com

Sunday

Today my plans include playing with my grandchildren for a bit, church, picking up a new sofa and love seat, blogging (which I haven't' done in FOREVER), and working on both my websites www.GrandpaGrandmasAttic.etsy.com and www.HandmadeWithLove.ArtFire.com Oh and if I have time LOL I want to finish up the pair of PJ bottoms I made for my dear hubby.

Think I'll make it? Even if I get a small portion of that done I'll be so tickled. I can at least mark this off my list.

My current MUST DO is my Art Fire website. No sales yet but with my Google Analytic site I'm able to "see" who, what, how many, and where people are that are finding my shop. It is only a matter of time...After all I've been fairly successful on Etsy! Why not Art Fire.

Still considering a craft sale in May. Not much success in location yet...but the projects are coming in daily. Thought I might do one in Baytown, Texas where my mother lives. That way she wouldn't have to "tote" all her stuff here to Spring. A very good possibility that is what I'll do.

Well,got to get off here and start getting ready for church.

See y'all later.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLoveArtFire.blogspot.com/
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

THIS MORNING

Saturday January 10, 2009 is proving to be an interesting day already. We woke to 70ish temperatures. Before the day even starts we will be in the 40's. So I guess we have a cold front coming in. OK for all you people northof us that is far from cold but for us here in southeast Texas that is cold and if the wind blows well....we feel as if we are in a deep freeze.

Anyway, my boss gave me some escape room game web sites to look at and I am already frustrated. I've not been able to escape any room regardless of how EASY they say they are to solve. SO, I won't be on those to often.

Today before we go to our friends house tonight to play our usual Mexican Train dominoe game (where Janace or Rick)will win as usual...sorry got off on a tangent there. I hope to reorganize my sewing room once again. One of these days I will get it right....I just know it.

My thoughts on that is that if I rearrange enough times I'll come up with a very workable room. Yesterday I had a brain storm which I will try out today. If I arrange it as if I were teaching quilting classes again then it would work for me. Sounds like a real plan anyway...I think!

Well not much else going on...here are a few Etsy views for you:


Until next time.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan

http://www.HandmadeWithLoveArtFire.blogspot.com/
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

JANUARY 7, 2009

Okay, I know that it has not been a week since we were in 2008! I am aware that "they" had to add a "some sort of second" to the clock because the earth is moving slower...."They" need to live in my life...because time is flying by. How about yours?

It's A Stitch news from yesterday...I checked in Jelly Rolls and 5" Charm Pack" from Moda. "9" by Sanae in Japan. Go to www.itsastitchonline.com to view. Just ordered new notions and books day before; I'm hoping they come in today. Keep an eye out for those to show up on the web fairly quickly. I ordered Fabulous Fabric Beads for myself last week. Can't wait to get it. Saw it at the Houston International Quilt show in November...Started to buy it and decided against it. Never mind that I've been wanting the book for a while! (Go figure.) Anyway I will own it soon.

At church on Sunday our sermon was exciting.
The title was Brand New Year...Same Old You?
Pastor Bobby challenged us with Scripture from Micha 6:6a.
Life application question: On December 21, 2009 what kind of life will I bring to God?
Questions from the people in Scripture can be found in Micah 6:6-7
Life application questions for us:

Life change is NOT about doing.
Life change IS about being...Micha6:8

Act Justly= being fair/how can I be fair in all my life aspects, I.E. work, family, finances, etc

Love Mercy= being compassionate/unexpected kindnesses/loving/mercy

Walk Humbly with God= being authentic/no pretending or wearing a mask

Ending with Romans 12:1 "So here is what I want you to do. God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life-your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life-and place it before God as an offering."

I Bring An Offering of Worship to My KING....

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

New in my ArtFire store today

HAPPY NEW YEAR

What will 2009 bring?
Since none of us really know we must make the most of every moment we get.
We really do get "NO DO OVERS" in life. I resolve to get the most mileage (so to speak)out of moment by moment living.

I am planning a local CRAFT SHOW for the week before Mothers' Day. If you are local and would like to participate email me and I'll get you set up.


In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLoveArtFire.blogspot.com/
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

Newest ArtFire Additions

Store not available

CHECK IT OUT!



In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

WHAT A MAD MORNING

As our new year ends and the new one begins I am once again reminded that we are NOT in contol.

GOD controls all and this morning He seems to be controling my GOOGLE accounts. Can't seem to log in to any site including my newly formed gmail.

I finally got into this blog this morning...been trying since last night and today, while looking for my NEW blog...I got my OLD blog....YEAH and UGHHHHH!

Does anyone know how to integrate them into one? Or can that be done? Or do I have to keep them both, ditch one, HELP. Any suggestions????

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

WHAT A YEAR!

Looking forward to a NEW YEAR!

How about y'all?

Many new plans for me this comming year. I am asking God to be IN everything I do. Well, actually I plan on asking HIM WHAT he wants me to do and I will (hopefully) join HIM in HIS plans for me.

My goals are to be a better Christian for HIM. To be a better "MeeMaw" for my grandchildren. A better mother to my 2 daughters. A better wife for my dear hubby of almost 39 years. A better employee for It's A Stitch. AND to take better care of myself.

My prayer is that God will lead me in everything I do and that I will listen!

In the works for my websites: http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com and http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991 is more items up for sale. Which means getting busy with more projects. Finishing up those that are UFO's (unfinished objects); to start new ones; and to help Rick, my dear hubby, pay off my new Bernina sewing machine.

Rick bought me a laptop for Christmas so I am now very "portable". I'll be able to take my work with me no matter where I go.

So be on the look out for all sorts of projects to come. There are many quilt tops ready for finishing, aprons that are also unfinished and I want to start on embroidery projects that are just waiting to "get out of my brain" and into real projects.

Well, goodnight all.
In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

Photos from Christmas Day at Angi's

 

Ashley got her first cookbook from her sister.
The conversation went something like this:
Ashley: "Oh cool, I love to cook."
Angi: "Good, I put some of my favorite ones in there and hope you like them."
Mom: "Yea, since I didn't teach Angi to cook; she is going to make sure you know how."
Angi: "All I knew how to cook when Jace and I got married was mac and cheese, grilled cheese and boil water for tea!"
Jason (the son-in-law): "Yea, what a menu...thanks mom in law for teaching her all the "tricks".
Mom: "Oh well it made her a better cook! :)

Until next time.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas.
Tonight is our Office Party for It's A Stitch.
You might want to check out our on sale items at www.itsastitchonline.com
Also don't forget to check out my new online store at www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com NEW items daily.
Etsy is going great...a lot of sales last week.

Check us out at the first of the year....we WILL be having a clearance sale the first 2 weeks of the new year. Clearing out inventory to make way for the new! :)

Don't forget the REASON for the SEASON. Jesus.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

New Items on Art FIre!!

Store not available

CHECK IT OUT

While you check out ART FIRE go to my shop and tell me what you think?

www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com

TODAY IS A REAL BUMMER

I have sold a few items this last week in my Etsy store!!http://www.etsy.com/search_results_seller.php?search_type=seller_usernames&search_query=grandpagrandmasattic YEAH!

Today I sold an apron and....well, I had it listed twice. AND yes, I only had one like it and no more of that particular fabric. SO, if the customer doesn't want to chose another fabric then I will refund her money. I can't believe I did that nor can I believe how incredible stupid and incompetent that makes me feel.

I have had a small bright spot in my day though. I have been working on a pink themed crazy quilt. It really is going to be very cute. And yes, I've been piecing it with my new Bernina. I've also been practicing using the BSR feature. It is lots of fun...just wish I was better at it. But then I know "practice makes perfect".

Tomorrow I'm back to It's A Stitch and buying all that stuff we sell. I love it.

Have a happy day and MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone.

GrandmaSusanQuilts
http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

MERRY CHRISTMAS

So many times a year I wish I could just sit down and do "whatever it is I want to do". Today I have that opportunity and have I taken advantage of it.

I've read email from Port Mansfield and a friend I've not seen for almost a year. I have actively searched for an online friend from Florida who is Anthony's Gramma. I have not found her :( Suppose I will though. I've lost her email address and well....anyway, I've sewn on my new 200 Bernina sewing/embroidery machine. I'm doing some crazy quilt blocks in pink. I'll post a photo when I'm done.

I've also gone with my family to try and find just the right tree for the small spot we have for one. This will be our first live tree in years. We went to our favorite store (Wal-Mart) and well....just goofed off.

Tonight we go see our church program called Uncle Matt's Diner. This will be our second weekend to see it. It was really a lot of fun! Our friends Janace and L.C. are going with us this time. Last weekend it was Melissa and Cameron.

This year we are celebrating our Christmas party at It's A Stitch at a local restaurant called Damian's Cucina Italiana. YUMMMMMMMMMY We also have 3 full days off Dec. 24, 25, 26 YEAH!

Before we know it we will all be in a brand new year 2009. Wonder what that will bring. I really don't want to know.

Well, my Bernina is calling me...beconning me...."COME BACK and sew Susan". Guess I'd best listen.

See ya later.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan

http://www.HandmadeWithLove.artfire.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

MY LATEST FIND

I signed up today!
You might want to check this out. I really liked it. Added the link to my home page on my side bar.

My official DBA has been Handmade With Love since 2000. Since that name was taken on Etsy I chose GrandpaGrandmasAttic. They are both actually the same business.

If you like ArtFire and want to sign up please (???) pretty please...use me as a referral.

I've listed a lot of black eyelash yo-yo's for Christine. What a blast these were to make. Check out the photo at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18573514Pretty cool. But boy what a mess....eyelashes were "flying" everywhere.

See y'all soon.
Grandma Quilts
Susan

IT'S A STITCH

The quilt store, It's A Stitch, where I work is having a big sale today. Not only is it an in store sale but also an online sale...check it out....www.itsastitchonline.com I didn't have to work today...

So many projects to complete by Christmas and so little time.

Night before last we went to our middle grandchild's Christmas play at school. She was "Warmth in your heart". What a sweet part for a sweet little girl. And I do mean little. She just turned 11 in October; but she, like her mother, is very small. She doesn't like that now but I am sure that before long she will realize what a blessing that is with shhh (the boys). Anyway she was precious.
Don't you agree?

Tonight we'll go to our church program "Uncle Matt's Diner". Our daughter, the mother of the precious little one in the school play is in it. Not a major role but one that will not be missed by her father and me! We go to The Church At Creeks End..so if you're in the mood to see a great Christmas play and you live in the Spring, Texas area hope on over.

Well, my quilting projects are calling my name and time is short. So until next time...happy quilting, crocheting, painting, or what ever makes you happy.

See you soon.
GrandmaSusanQuilts

New Items in My Etsy Shop

Etsy Buy Handmade grandpagrandmasattic

While you're online also check out http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17336105&ref=em What a cute scarf MommaJ!

GrandmaSusanQuilts

Check out these two new links

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5371267 HYPERNOODLE and her profile page is a hoot! Her specialty is handmade purses and they are gorgeous. Check it out.

This second link is NATIONCREATION http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=102273 and her specialty is vintage. She has a variety of things online including books and patterns.
GrandmaSusanQuilts

LATEST AND GREATEST CREATION

I love to do crazy quilting. Yesterday I sat down with some Moda Jelly Rolls and voila...a tiny bright preemie crazy quilt top.

Check out the photo...it is so cute. Now all I have to do is complete it and give it away.

Does anyone know where I can find a recipient?

Also, don't forget to check out my new items in my Etsy store.http://www.etsy.com/search_results_seller.php?search_type=seller_usernames&search_query=grandpagrandmasattic

Tomorrow I get to go back to my real job. I get to play (I mean work) online checking out all sorts of good notions, patterns, fabric...to purchase for It's A Stitch.

Today when I was out I came across a magazine I'd never seen before. It was called Artfulblogging. It was a pretty cool book. Anyone seen that one? Have you checked it out? Lots of really cool stuff in it. Wish I'd a bought it. Sounds like a very cool way to network.

Well, till next time.
GrandmaSusanQuilts!

ONE OF MY ITEMS MADE TO ANOTHER TREASURY!!

ONE OF MY ITEMS MADE TO ANOTHER TREASURY!!

JodiKay - Handmade Goods has a shop on Etsy and she put one of my items in her treasury...take a look at http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=23314. Her shop id is http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5944610. Take a look at her shop she has some pretty cool things listed.

One day 'till TURKEY DAY! Yeah, if I had to choose which of the holidays were my favorite they would be: Easter and then Thanksgiving.

I will start my cooking this afternoon after work. The "little people" will be here to help and to spend the night. Then we will head back over to their house for the turkey. I'll take my homemade dressing, dirty rice and mixed greens (collard, turnips and mustards). All favorites from my "cajun" roots childhood. My grandmother used to make many of the dishes that will grace our table this year as in others.

HAPPY TURKEY DAY everyone.

Susan/Grandma
GrandpaGrandmasAttic

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

OK! YOU'VE ASKED FOR IT...I'VE DELIVERED

I have been on a listing spree with Etsy. I purchased a half mannequin (female) and have finally decided to part with those aprons that have been stored away since I closed my brick and mortar store in Old Town Spring.

So many of my friends (the long distance ones) have asked about my studio. "What does it look like?" "How much fabric do you really have?" Where do you do all your creating?"

Well, here it is....my studio. It used to be our garage. But years ago we turned it into a bedroom/play room/laundry. When we no longer needed it for those purposes we transformed it into a heated and air conditioned space for me (Grandma/Susan) and Grandpa Rick (my hubby of 38 1/2 years) to do our crafts.

My brother, Bo and his wife Cricket, who live in Port Mansfield, Texas came and revamped the space into one large work area with many electrical plugs and a separate laundry with a real door!

Some days it looks better than this...on others well, let's just say it does get worse.

You enter our space from our dinning/kitchen area (so the coffee pot, Cokes, Dr. Peppers, snacks are but a short walk from our work area). As you enter the "office area is the first you see. My computer and a couple cabinets are stacked along the wall for storing those precious things that we have online. Directly left of that area is the laundry room which also houses our pantry.

Then right ahead of that is Grandpas small work area where he does all his important work...making crosses, doing puzzles (his favorite pass time), and some "mystery" projects I'm not supposed to know about. A sheet sometimes covers those so that my prying eyes don't see. And yes, for those of you who are wondering...I do NOT peek.

To the left of the step down going into the work area is my cutting table and ironing station. Book shelves are on that wall and the adjacent wall. The window is one of two and lets in some much needed natural sunlight.

Under that window is the space where our grand(babies) 12,11, and almost 8 create their works of art when they are here. We also call them our "little people".

My sewing machine sits on a 72 inch folding table and to the right of that is an ironing surface so I don't have to get up and press those smaller projects. Then behind me is all my fabric stash.

There are 4 wire shelves, bins, bins, and bins full of all sorts of fabric, batting, and baskets of ribbons.

We "opted out" for a REAL floor. The garage floor is just fine. We don't have to worry about clean ups because....we sweep, vacuum, mop and voila' we're done!

Finally, at the very front of what was the garage is a wall with container after container of both novelty and regular buttons. My jewelry making supplies and the "little peoples" crafting crates. Of course they are welcome to any or all of the materials here in our work area. The only rule here is "Please ask first."

Long winded...sorry. But when I get started...well you can tell it really is hard for me to stop.

Hope you're not to bored! :)
Grandma/Susan

NEW ITEMS IN SHOP GO REPURPOSED

GrandpaGrandmasAttic has several new items in their shop this week.
Two are aprons and have been repurposed.
Both are aprons: one from 2 placemats and one from an old pillowcase.
Why not check them out?

Susan/Grandma Susan Quilts in the Quilting Attic.

Etsy Buy Handmade grandpagrandmasattic

MY LITTLE GRANDCHILDREN

Well "MY LITTLE GRANDCHILDREN" are not so little anymore.
Hannah will be 12 next week.
Courtney was 11 in October.
Jake will be 8 in March.

Oh my goodness where does time go....I'm getting very old. One of my co-workers "Billy" has reminded me daily (multiple times per day) of just how "OLD" I am. He is teasing and I know that. If he didn't I'd think he was mad at me. Billy and Curtis are our machine technicians at It's A Stitch.

This summer (July 19) I celebrated by 4th year working at IAS. What a four year experience that has been. I started out being our receiving clerk. Then about 2 years ago I was promoted to re-buyer/secretary and while I really enjoyed being the first to actually see and "fondle" the fabrics and notions that came in the door I really love seeing all the new things that are coming in BEFORE anyone even knows they have been ordered.

There are many new things about to come in that we have ordered from the HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL QUILT FESTIVAL and MARKET. Patterns, notions, fabrics....oh my!

By the way if any of you live in the Houston - Humble, Texas area and need a job????? We are hiring a new receiving clerk. :) Come by and get an application....be sure to mail it in though.....do not stop and drop it off.

Well, got to go. It is time to work in the sewing room a bit and then head out to the Chiropractor then work. I hate to call it "WORK" b/c I really do have a lot of fun and enjoy my job.

Susan

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

GUESS WHAT I OWN????

My friend Wilma is buying a Bernina 830 machine. THE top of the line Bernina machine. I would be very envious except for one thing...I have her Bernina 200 that has been upgraded to a 730!

I am so very excited to own this machine. It will do anything and everything I will ever need it to do. No, it won't sew or embroider things for me but then I really wouldn't want it to because that would take all the fun out of it.

Soon and very soon I will be "cranking out" so many new projects you won't be able to keep up with me. All you will see is a blurrrrrr going across your screen.

Here are a few of my newest additions to my etsy store.

Etsy Buy Handmade grandpagrandmasattic

"See y'all soon."

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL QUILT FESTIVAL IS OVER

2008 Festival was indeed great. We (It's A Stitch) worked very hard to get our products ordered...packaged...displays made...and YES...we even laid flooring in our booth the first night of set up.

I had never participated from that vantage point before so it was truly an interesting experience. We started about 4:00 p.m. and was at home in bet about 10:00p.m. Then we started all over again on Wednesday morning bright and early. Booth was set up and ready for our first customers by 5:00 p.m. Preview night was great (from what I hear). I left around 4:30 or so and headed home for some much needed sleep!

While tiring...it was wonderful as usual. I worked at the store the rest of the week, even did a little shipping from the web room. Then on Saturday I got to enjoy festival as a customer. Rick and Ashley went with me and we walked from one end of the George R. Brown convention center to the other. Shopping IS hard work you know.

Anyway, now we are back at It's A Stitch...undoing everything we did to get ready. Product must have a home so I've been busy stocking our store shelves and sharing with the other two locations. The web room/shipping is up and running full steam ahead with Melissa at the helm.

Me I've been ordering...ordering...ordering...lots of new things Judy (our owner) found at market and Gen will be posting to our web site as soon as the new product comes in the back door.

What an exciting time! With Thanksgiving right on us and Christmas not to far behind (can you believe it?) we are gearing up for the greatest season of all...the celebration of our dear Saviors birth!D

With 2009 lurking just around the corner we are excited to see what God has in store...

Don't forget to check out our It's A Stitch website at www.itsastitchonline.com. Keep your eyes open for new products and the new Bernina 830 will be in the stores soon :)

Until next time.
In and Because of HIM,
Susan

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL QUILT FESTIVAL

IT'S HERE!

Our yearly Houston International Quilt Festival is in full swing.

It's A Stitch spent a day and a half setting up our Bernina Of America accessories booth and boy are we tired.

Last night was Pre-view night and today was our first full day and only 3 more to go!
I worked at the store today shipping orders from our web site...next week will prove to be a humdinger with all the orders to fill and ship from Festival and from the web store (www.itsastitchonline.com).

Tomorrow I'm at the store to help customers with fabric choices and then cutting it, finding just the right color thread, oohing and ahhing over their recent purchases at the festival....etc...etc...etc.

On Saturday I get to go down to the festival and SHOP! My dear hubby, Rick, our daughter, Ashley, and I will shop 'til they drop!! Actually, Rick loves to go. He buys me more than I'll buy for myself so....needless to say I really enjoy his company. He is an artist so he loves to look at all the quilts. Of course his medium is wood...but he does love the fabric.

I will photograph my purchases and share them with you all next week.

Speaking of next week....
As of Sunday, November 2...I will be the proud owner of a Bernina 200 sewing and embroidery machine! My friend Wilma is buying the new Bernina 830 and boy is she excited. I don't know which of us is more excited. This is not her first Bernina but it is for me.

I can hardly wait to sew on it. I have a custom order request from my Etsy store and that will be my first project! My customer is getting married in April and wants something special for her brides maids. I am the lucky person who gets to fill that order. YEAH!

Well, it is almost time for CSI Los Vegas...can't miss that.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

BOOK REVIEW

I just finished a book titled: THE SHACK by Wm. Paul Young.

Eugene Peterson says on the cover: "This book has the potential to do for generation what John Bunyan's PILGRIM'S PROGRESS did for his. It's that good!"

Michael W. Smith, the recording artist says this: "THE SHACK is the most absorbing work of fiction I've read in many years. My wife and I laughed, cried, and repented of our own lack of faith along the way. THE SHACK will leave you craving for the presence of God."

This is by far the best book I've read all year. If you are/or have ever struggled with relationships...this book is for you.

Rick, my husband, and I went yesterday to see the movie FIREPROOF. A friend of mine said it was so good she'd buy our tickets if we'd "just go see it". Of course we didn't take her up on the free tickets but we did go.

I want to tell you this is a very good movie about marriage. Rick and I have been married for 38 years...we are not currently in a fire but as all marriages do go through fires we have had our share. This movie will start you to thinking how can we, how will we prepare to FIREPROOF our marriage for the next "fire".

There is also a study book that goes along with the principles this movie is based on. It can be used in your small groups or between you and your spouse.

I highly recommend both THE SHACK and FIREPROOF.

Thanks for letting me rave about these fine Christian media. We do have a choice.
In and Because of HIM,
Susan

NEW INTERNET PROVIDER!

Finally! I now have a service that will allow me to do really HIGH SPEED "stuff"!
No more waiting....waiting....waiting...for pages to download/upload or what ever it is they do.

I have new things on line and hope you have a chance to view them. Here are a few:

Etsy Buy Handmade grandpagrandmasattic

Houston International Quilt Festival is almost here. I am so excited. We are working hard at It's A Stitch (www.itsastitchonline.com) to get all our samples and product ready for Tuesday's transfer to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Today I have worked at finishing my part of that project and filling the store with all sorts of goodies that have come in the store for the last week or so.

Tuesday evening and Wednesday next week we set up our Bernina booth. From Thursday until Sunday it's PARTY time. Not only do we see many people at Festival but the store will be bustling with folks from all over the world!!!! What a fabulously wonderful time of year for us.

New quilts, patterns, books...oh my....you must take a look.(www.itsastitchonline.com)

Until next time.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

NEW ITEMS IN ETSY SHOP

Here are the newest items in my Etsy store: GrandpaGrandmasAttic. Some time it is just so hard to put enough time into my store to really make it work. But, it is a lot of fun.

Etsy Buy Handmade grandpagrandmasattic

See you next time.
Grandma
Susan

HURRICANE IKE'S AFTERMATH IN SPRING TEXAS

We SURVIVED...having thought we had plenty of food....etc. We never anticipated being without power for 10 days! So, the "plenty of food" was a true eye opener!

Some of our friends and family are still without power as of today September 24. That is 12 days and counting. Some are not promised power until Monday September 29 (if then).

Traffic is a nightmare...coming and going to work. But we are thankful for being able to go to work.

A few of our immediate neighbors lost their homes due to trees falling into them...either sideways or right down the middle of them. Yet, we are the blessed ones...Galveston is totally devastated.

We lost 2 trees and a fence...had much trash in our yard from trees...etc being blown around during the high winds but we were spared the devastation. THANK GOD.

I will attempt to down load some photos for you all to see soon.

My Etsy store has some new products...be sure to check it out.








THANK YOU FOR ALL your prayers during this time.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan/grandma

HERE HE COMES......HURRICANE IKE

Sometimes we just have to make the best of situations that come our way. This seems to be one of them. We are hunkering down in place....waiting for "the storm". We have ice...water...and plenty of food...hopefully enough to last a few days if we loose our power.

One thing is for sure, "I have troubles all around me. But You, Lord, will bring me safely through them." Psalm 138:7 Prayer: Thank you, God, for caring about my problems.

When seen through the BIG picture of life...God has already prepared the way...my job is to find the way He has already made and go there....

I might be "off line" for a while...but will be back as soon as possible.

See ya soon.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan/grandma

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net
http://www.abundantlifechiro.com/

MY LASTEST and GREATEST FIND

OK....are you all ready????

The newest book at It's A Stitch (in my humble opinion) is:
FOOLPROOF MACHINE QUILTING by Mary Mashuta.

This is the coolest machine quilting book I believe on the market.
Features include: Learning how to use your walking foot; paper-cut patterns for no marking, no math; simple stitching for stunning results.

At $20.95 it is the best bargain around. WELL....at least for today.

Check out www.itsastitchonline.com......lots of new products....including books, patterns, and fabrics. Some new things in clearance as well.


HERE are the latest Etsy listings for GrandpaGrandmasAttic

The plans for the next several weeks are to list many Christmas fabrics. Some are novelty and some are just plain BEAUTIFUL. Don't miss them b/c I'm sure they will go quickly.

I do have a few Halloween fabrics that I plan to list...hopefully in the next week. These are not large pieces but there is enough for smaller projects like candy bags.

See y'all later.

Quote for the day: "A happy face means a glad heart." Lord Jesus, help me to put on a happy face all day.


In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net

Hope everyone had a good labor FREE labor day

Rick, Ashley and I along with our friends LC & Janace went to Lake Livingston again! Our favorite spot is Harts Marina in Trinity, TX. What a lovely place to spend a holiday weekend. http://www.hartscreeklanding.com/

We did catch some fish but the highlight of our stay was our last night there. Rick caught a garfish and cleaned it for me. (Haven't had gar in forever!)

LC caught a humongous catfish! Janace even fought the spider webs and spiders off the pier to help net that one. What a brave woman is she!!!!

The quilting world beckons me today. Back to It's A Stitch and PLAY (oopps I meant work). Today I will most likely be in the web room (www.itsastitchonline.com) filling all those orders that have come in since Friday.

Then, at some point I'll need to check a bit of product in (I'm filling in for the receiving clerk who is on vacation in Hawaii.)

After that, I will do a little work of my own....buying product to put in the store and on the web.

This is my first Tuesday of the month dinner night with my friends. We are going to a local Mexican food restaurant. That dinner is always such fun...we get to unwind and just be us. Our group consists of current and former employees of It's A Stitch.

Still no news from Port Mansfield. I assume that means GOOD NEWS!

Please check out a new Etsy link in my favorites; Crochet by Momma J. Really cute stuff.http://crochetbymommaj.blogspot.com/

There are a few more new items in my store as well. Take a look at this:

QUILTING QUILTING QUILTING

NEW in the Etsy store tonight:

I am almost finished with my sewing room! It has been a very long time in coming....last June as a matter of fact. I have worked hard; sometimes for a couple hours at a time and at other times in 15 minute increments....BUT, it is almost completed. I will hopefully post photos of the completed project a little later.

So, I will be able to QUILT QUILT QUILT. New items in my Etsy shop shows off some of the fabulous finds I had forgotten were in my "stuff". More to come so keep a watch out!

By the way check out www.itsastitchonline.com to see a photo of the newest addition to the Bernina family. The new 830 machine.

Have not heard from Port Mansfield, TX lately. I hope everything is going well with them.

GRANDPA GRANDMAS ATTIC AT ETSY

My Etsy shop now has 310 items in it. New stuff...older stuff...and in between stuff.

Fabric, yo yo's and a fabric barrette are among the newcomers to the store.

More new things are on the way this weekend. I'm finishing up a couple projects that will be listed this weekend (I hope).

Quilt tops, aprons, fabrics and more will be up for the offering.

Don't miss out on the news at It's A Stitch (www.itsastitchonline.com). This week we had a party to introduce the new machine from Bernina. What a deal. You can sew, embroidery and quilt with this one! It has a huge quilting bed and you can purchase the rails to make it into a wonderful long arm quilting machine. Check it out.

Don't forget to check out Bay Pirates at http://www.baypirates.net
My brother, Captain Bo and his wife,Cricket, will be thrilled you did.

More news later about a new quilting guild in Humble, Texas that is just now forming.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net

HAPPY MONDAY

What a day....

Go to see my chiropractor, go to work at It's A Stitch, lunch time....then someone said to me "Susan, how did you get by with wearing jeans today?" OMG was I just so embarrassed (dress code: NO jeans). How funny! Everyone including Judy our owner laughed at me all day.

Other than that today was a good day. Lots of work to catch up on....new things to order...busy, busy, busy.

I am working on a new project for my Etsy store...you might want to continue to check that out. Maybe I'll get more quilt tops and aprons put in my store before long. I have so many just sitting here...I need to just do it.

A new yo yo project came in the mail this week from one of my Etsy customers. Lots of pretty fabrics to make all sizes of yo yos. You might want to check Carla's store out at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5600251

My sewing room is finally completed...I have struggled with "cleaning & straightening" it since our break in last June. But, after several false starts it is done. My computer area is next on the agenda...we'll see how long that takes to get in order. I really am so excited though b/c I can finally get some serious sewing and quilting done.

New Etsy items:

I really miss sewing so be on the looke out for "STUFF". Getting into doing my custom order things again. Baby quilts, bibs, hats, aprons, monogramming. I love it all.

See ya soon.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net


Also, please visit this site....it is saving my life...literallyhttp://abundantlifechiro.blogspot.com/

CALLING ALL QUILTERS

NEW ETSY ITEMS IN STORE:


Today is a really wonderful day.

I have been seeing a new doctor Chris Zaino. He is a chiropractor in The Woodlands, Texas.

This is truly a God thing. He spoke at our church for the last 3 Sundays and man has that changed my life. LONG story short....

I've been chronically fatigued (or should I say exhausted) and lower back and hip pain for the last 5 years. Drs. couldn't tell me what was wrong. Well after seeing my back and neck x-rays Rick and I decided to "give" Dr. Zaino a try.

Well, that was on Saturday morning...Sunday morning I woke up and was not as tired as when I went to bed the night before. For years I would wake either as tired or more so than when I laid down to go to sleep.

That was almost 2 weeks ago (I thought at first it was the old placebo effect, you know)...but NO. I still am waking up knowing I've slept and rested. What a blessing.

So, if you or someone you knows can't get rid of that nagging pain, wake as tired as when you went to bed AND you live anywhere in The Woodlands, Texas area. MAKE an appointment as soon as possible.

No, I'm not getting any "kick back" from Dr.Z...what I am getting is rest and my crooked ol' back is getting better day by day. Still have a long way to go BUT I am healing more and more daily.

Thanks for letting me rant...

Work today was good. Still catching up on orders from our sale last week. Getting ready for our 830 Party! Bernina has a new machine coming out and we are in party mode to see the machine!

Want a free preview call 281-446-4999 and sign up for THE PARTY.

Keep the faith and know that God is in total control one way or another.

I love you all.

In and Because of HIM,


Susan

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net

ETSY STORE FEATURES

Grandpa and Grandmas Attic has a few new items to show off!

Here are just a few


We just finished our Summer Sale at It's A Stitch and boy were we busy. Cutting fabric, selling Bernina sewing machines, working the web store (www.itsastitchonline.com).

Be on the lookout for a whole bunch of new stuff soon....I am going to feature some of my quilt tops and aprons I've never posted before....HOPE TO SEE YOU in our store at Etsy.

Our in store sale was great fun. If you live in our area come see us soon...we have new product coming in every day and I am busy purchasing all sorts of quilting supplies. If you arn't close enough to come in be sure and check out our on line store.

Be sure to come in for our PARTIES next week....We will be showing of our new 830 machine. Trust me "You aint seen nothing like this one"! It is so unique we are having a party to show it off. Sign up on line if you'd like to attend our in store reveal.



This last week has been a good one. Hope it has been for you all as well. No new updates from Port Mansfield.

In and Because of HIM,

Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net

NEW ITEMS IN MY ETSY SHOP

Thanks so much for all your support.

Don't forget It's A Stitch (quilt store where I work) is having a hugh sale through tomorrow,Saturday August 9, 2008. We are open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. tomorrow.

You can still visit us on line at www.itsastitchonline.com however, sales are in store and in stock items only.

Please continue to pray for my brother and sister-in-law in Port Mansfield. It is going to take a while for them to get back on their feet from DOLLY. Visit them on line at www.baypirates.net

Well, got an early day tomorrow due to the sale at It's A Stitch. Look us up online and also take a peek at my new stuff on etsy.

Until next time.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991
http://quiltingsavvy.blogspot.com/
http://www.baypirates.net

NEWS NEWS NEWS

Please continue to pray for Maura: I misidentified the type of cancer she has (re:May 28). She has "high-grade unclassified sarcoma", not Hodgkins lymphoma. She and her family continue to need your prayer support.

Erin, please forgive the misunderstanding on my part. You and your family are such dear people. My family covets your prayers as well...

That brings me to another issue::::: Port Mansfield. Bo and Cricket have electricity now (for almost a week I think). I haven't talked to them but she sent an email and basically said they are ok.

Here is her email if you'd care to read it.
"
We weathered the storm well, as of 8:30pm last night we now have power. All is well with us we will make it with a little extra work but for the most part all is well with us. We only have the Lord to thank for all the blessings in our life.

Thank you all for your prayers and we love you,

Bo, Cricket and BEBE

Three Bullets

There once was a man who had nothing for his family to eat.

He had an old rifle and three bullets.

So, he decided that he would go out hunting and kill some wild game
for dinner.
As he went down the road, he saw a rabbit.
He shot at the rabbit and missed it.
The rabbit ran away.
Then he saw a squirrel and fired a shot at the squirrel but missed it.

The squirrel disappeared into a hole in a cottonwood tree.
As he went further, he saw a large wild 'Tom' turkey in the tree, but
he had only one bullet remaining.
A voice spoke to him and said,
'Pray first, aim high, and stay focused.
However, at the same time, he saw a deer which was a better kill.

He brought the gun down and aimed at the deer.

But, then he saw a rattlesnake between his legs about to bite him, so he
naturally brought the gun down further to shoot the rattlesnake.

Still, the voice said again to him,
'I said, 'Pray, Aim high, and Stay focused.'
So, the man decided to listen to God's voice.
He prayed, then aimed the gun high up in the tree, and shot the wild
turkey.

The bullet bounced off the turkey and killed the deer.

The handle fell off the gun, hit the snake in the head, and killed it.

And, when the gun had gone off, it knocked him into a pond.

When he stood up to look around, he had fish in all his pockets, a
dead deer, and a turkey for his family to eat.

The snake (Satan) was dead simply because the man listened to God.

Moral of the story:

Pray first before you do anything, aim and shoot high in your goals,
and stay focused on God.

Never let others discourage you concerning your past.

The past is exactly that, 'the past.' Live every day one day at a
time, and remember that only God knows our future, and that He will not put
you through any more than you can bear.

Do not look to man for your blessings, but look to the doors that only
He has prepared in advance for you in your favor.

Wait, be still, and patient: keep God first, and everything else will
follow.

Pass this on in order that someone else might be blessed.

FROM ONE FRIEND TO ANOTHER ..

Don't worry about tomorrow, God is already there!!! "

God is good and HE is good ALL the time.

Love you all.
Susan

NEWS FROM PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS

As you all know hurricane Dolly blew through south Texas with a SLOW vengeance!

Happy to report that my brother and sister-in-law are physically fine...

Sad to report that the town is not so fine...

I am only getting reports from my mother when she talks to them and that is not very often due to cell phone batteries not being able to be charged. So this is very much second hand news...however, here is what I know.

Yes, Bo and Cricket "rode out the storm" in their home. The house is "livable" according to Bo.

The rental on the bay however is another story. The down stairs is basically "a wash" no pun intended. The storm surge ripped out the entire down stairs including the stairs going to the second floor rental. Bo says they can't even get in to see what damage may be waiting for them there. I don't know if that means the whole structure is unsafe to go in or exactly what...

The 500 foot long pier that went out into the bay is no longer. :(

Cricket did call mom today to let her know that they are still physically fine.

As best I can determine based on Bo's exact words is: "The whole town is gone."

We have been praying since we discovered that Dolly was churning her way to the Texas coast. We are continuing to pray for not only the safety but also the peace that only God can bring in times like these.

Please help us pray along those lines....God IS good and He is good ALL the time.
We know God has a plan it is our job to find the plan and plug into it.

All the folks there truly need a fresh touch from our Lord.

Thank you all for your concern and prayers.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS AND DOLLY

I talked to my brother and sister-in-law last night around 8:30. They have boarded up their properties and are "SITTING" the hurricane out.

Bo told me last night that by water they are only 45 miles north of Brownsville, Texas. Being right on the bay also brings it's dangers. As most of you know their rentals are right on the water and their home is only 2 blocks inland.

Please pray for their safety and that of their property.

Will update you all after the storm is over.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan

JUST FOR FUN

A friend of mine sent this link to me a while back. Every once in a while I go to it for stress relief!

Click on it and you'll see why it is one of my favorite spots.



http://www.birdcheck.co.uk/whackthepenguin.htm

PORT MANSFIELD AND QUILTING????

What in the world do Port Mansfield, Texas and quilting have to do with one another?

Well, while we were at my brothers this summer I had a "job" to do. A custom order from my Etsy store (grandpagrandmasattic http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991) had just arrived. Karen had found my Etsy shop and sent fabrics from her stash for me to make yo yos. Another gal bought a lot of yo yos and is covering a lamp shade with them. So, I took Karens fabrics with me and worked on them...(well part-time anyway).

Yes, I said yo yos! And yes, they are made from fabrics. They became popular in the 1930's and have found a renewed interest in 2008! Many projects can be embellished with them including but not limited to actually making quilts from them. I love making them and have put a few on line because after all what in the world am I going to do with ALL those things.

In the first paragraph I said I worked on those yo yos part-time BECAUSE we were way to busy having fun for me to interrupt myself with work to often.

While in the heat of the day I did sit around a couple days (an hour or so each day) and made those yo yos while I sat down in the cool a/c....propped up my feet...watched satellite TV movies....and yo yo(ed). Oh, and did I mention that right outside the french doors I watched pelicans...sea gulls...boats...go by? :)

The other part of the day we fished...visited...ate...napped...and just chilled out.

Browsing through photos from our vacation I remembered the little hermit crab Ashley and her daddy retrieved from the bay. We had so much fun watching that little critter walk around. As you can tell from the photo my strength is not photography but I just couldn't help taking this photo. He was just so adorable...walking around on the wooden walk...that leads to the wooden gate...that leads to the end of the wooden pier...that leads to THE FISH!!! Aren't his little legs cute?

Photos are of yo yos and the hermit crab we so enjoyed!

I am cleaning out my sewing stash today...look for more fabrics to purchase from the DESTASHING....

OOPS...forgot to post photos!!!!!!!!!!


In and Because of HIM,
Susan/grandma

P.S.- My sister-in-law called last night and said that my brother CAPTIAN BO took customers out on his boat two days in a row. YEAH BO!! I'm so proud of you.

Previewing new items in my Etsy store

Not knowing when I would publish again or if anyone even cared...tonight I made the decision to POST...

There are new items in my Etsy store. Thought you might like a peek! SO.................


Hope your fourth of July was wonderful. Ours was. Went fishing at Lake Livingston and gave the pennant I made to Toye at the marina. She loved it. It sure does match her 4 wheeler and her! Wild and crazy pink flamingo fabric!

Janace & LC caught lots of catfish. Rick and I just goofed off....it really was great. Came back home tired....tired....tired.

Well....off to bed. Have a good evening.

A very cool event coming up.

Love, In HIS Name, Grandma Susan quilts

"CAPTAIN BO" Port Mansfield, Texas

It seems that my blog on Port Mansfield got some attention. Someone from Alaska who has a rental home there emailed my sister-in-law and told her about it. I think that is pretty cool.

Remember to look up Bay Pirates on the Internet...A link is on my side bar: Port Mansfield.

You won't find better rentals than with Bay Pirates. Now, don't think I'm predijust because they are kin folk. It does help...but honestly they have the best rentals in my opinion.

My brother also got his captains license this last week. SO now not only can you rent a week/weekend home in which to stay... but "CAPTAIN BO" can take you out for a day of fishing. Talk about your all inclusive vacation stay!

Attached are a couple more photos of our stay there.

BAY PIRATES RENTALS in Port Mansfield, Texas

The other day I told you all that we had gone on vacation to Port Mansfield, Texas. I thought I might share another photo with you from Port Mansfield.

During the day not only is fishing #1 on the agenda but sight seeing is also. However, sight seeing is not like you'd imagine. One of the places we stayed was at my brothers' home. We sat on the front porch (which, by the way) faced the vast expanses of the King Ranch. In a days time we saw deer, wild hogs, wild turkey's and the babies of wild turkeys.

The buck deer are in velvet and are gorgeous; while driving down the street you will see deer. Just sitting under the cool shade of the mesquite trees; then when the feeders go off the deer just come running from everywhere to feed. What a sight. They come up into the yards and feed as well.

The wild hogs are very, very LARGE.

Want to see Bay Pirates Rentals up close and personal??????? visit them at: http://www.baypirates.net


Like to fish?
Like to see wild life?
Visit Port Mansfield and stay at any one of the Bay Pirates houses.

Can you tell I'm excited?

OUR VACATION in PORT MANSFIELD

Last week we took a trip to see my brother Bo and his wife Cricket in Port Mansfield, Texas.

What a treat....Not only did we get to catch up on "family life" but we also did a LOT of fishing.

Fishing from the 500 foot pier that goes out into the Laguna Madre but also from Bo's fishing boat! We caught red fish, trout and hugh sun burns! Talk about fun!!!!!

I learned to wade fish in the Gulf of Mexico (well the bay that is). In the process I saw many critters that would have been missed had I stayed on the boat. First we saw dolphin...then while wading we saw hermit crabs, oyster beds, and once back on the boat a group of brown sting ray swam by. What a sight. Can't wait to "DO IT AGAIN".

We stayed at Bo and Crickets home but we also got to stay in one of their rentals right on the bay. What a joy and treat that was. 2 bedrooms...1 bath fully stocked kitchen...living area (with Diret TV)...Talk about a beautiful sunrise over the Gulf!

We will be going again. While I can't explain the beauty we saw perhaps this photo will help your visual some.

OUR VACATION in PORT MANSFIELD

Last week we took a trip to see my brother Bo and his wife Cricket in Port Mansfield, Texas.

What a treat....Not only did we get to

My Etsy Store

I am so very excited about my Etsy Store: Please check it out. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991

HELLO WORLD

I am supper excited today. Only 3 more days to work. THEN I get to go see my mom for her 75th birthday. My 2 daughters, 3 grandchildren and I are going to see her as a SURPRISE birthday! So, please don't tell her. :)

Our plans this summer include deep sea fishing and lounging around the beach. Don't know yet when we're going BUT it sure will be fun. We will visit with my brother and his wife in Port Mansfield, Texas. He has a charter service and several rentals on the water. If you're ever down that way just check him out.

Well, it's off to work I go ho ho!

Have a wonderful day quilting, sewing, crafting, or whatever pleases you today.

God bless you all.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan/Grandma
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991

Good Morning /Evening

Monday, June 9, 2008
GOOD MORNING
First day back at work since the weekend.
Looking forward to going back to my re-buying job at http://www.itsastitchonline.com/

My new favorite middle grandchild, Courtney, (she is my ONLY middle grandchild :0) made me a little Nintendo Chihuahua named after my little Annie Sue. Annie died 2 years ago and I have been very sad ever since. This cute little Chihuahua looks just like her. THANK YOU Courtney!

I thought you all might want a look at my favorite Long Arm Quilting Person. Her name is Sheila. We have been friends for a few years. Her email address is quiltedstitches@earthlink.net.
Her work has been in local quilt shows and won't be surprised if one day she has her work in the Houston International Quilt Festival here some fall.

Be sure to check out my favorite items in my ETSY store:

Well....off to work.
Hope everyone has a great MONDAY!

In and Because of HIM,
Grandma Susan
WWW.ETSY.COM

HELLO SUMMER TIME!

Well, it's official. Seems like summer is here to stay. High heat and humidity are what's going on here is Southeast Texas. How about where you are?

Aside from the weather I am making YO YOs! Been at it all day. Sold a grouping to Ramona at HARPERS Fabulous Finds. She's planning a great sale for her customers and is using my handmade Yo Yos as part of her promotion! I'm so very excited to see that come together.

Today, Sunday, I've been making Yo Yos all day! Watching made for TV movies and sewing. One of my great customers on Etsy commissioned me to make custom Yo Yos for her childrens clothing line. I am using fabrcis she sent to me. I am having so much fun. Her line of clothing can be found at: http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o146/kamigirltaylorlove/m2m%20matilda%20jane/

Today is just a wonderful day.

Hope you all are enjoying your Sunday.

In and Because of HIM,
Susan aka Grandma

JUNE ALREADY

Where oh where is the year going?

Already it's June!

6 months 'til Christmas and It's A Stitch(www.itsastitchonline.com) is gearing up with loads of Christmas fabric. They are so pretty.

Today I ordered patterns for a kit were making and it promises to be a very good seller. Stick around and you may just see it on line very soon.

Our store is also having an OESD (Oklahoma Embroidery) event next week at our Westheimer store and a few days later it will be at the Humble location. Look on line to see what is going on there.

My Etsy shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991 is going great. New products on line again today. Don't forget to check it out.

I will soon have my Handmade With Love shop up and running you will want to keep watching for that also. It will feature more of my finished quilt tops.

Please continue to pray for my friend Maura. You can find her blog at http://www.mauraupdate.blogspot.com/ for updates. If you'd like you can leave her a "word" of encouragement.

Well....I'm off to watch TV and make YO YOs!! Oh yes, before I go here are the newest listing on my Etsy.

I HAVE BEEN CHALLENGED

Just met a lot of really cool Etsy folks and bloggers. Went to forums and what a find. Very nice shops and really nice people.

I was reminded (challenged) to blog today. THANK YOU so very much http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5256007 for reminding me to blog.

Sunday is a always a good day for me. I get to go to church, take a nap, and do Etsy. Oh, yes, and I get to finish up details for the work week.

I put new products on line today. I will share them here.

Thanks for stopping by to visit my blog. Please visit my Etsy store also. THANKS, Susan

HAPPY THURSDAY!

Today was a great day at It's A Stitch in Humble, Texas.

Many new products are coming in daily. It really is exciting to see what I order actually come through the back door by way of Fed-X, UPS, USPS and sometimes even DHL! Oh and I don't want to forget Office Depot.

Our oldest daughter (Angi) and her hubby (Jason) came by night before last. It was a very nice "drop by" visit. They were out and about and just dropped in. It is always good to see them. The visit was short but meaningful. I look forward to seeing them every chance I get.

Angi is a flight attendant with a corporate company and Jason is in the oil industry. We, Rick & I, always tease them that when we are "REALLY old" they will be set to "take care of us". Needless to say that goes over big.

I am working on a couple ideas for future product; not only for my Etsy shop but also for a pattern company called Black Cat Creation here in Texas. If you'd like to see their web site just go to http://www.blackcatcreations.com. Their patterns are just out of this world.

It's A Stitch carries most all their patterns. Judy Reynolds and Amy Cotham are "BLACK CAT CREATIONS" http://www.black-cat-creations.com/ and they have several designers. Both Judy and Amy used to work for It's A Stitch and so did or do most of their designers. (Long sentence I know.)

My ideas will have to remain "top secret" for now...but don't be surprised if you see my name on a pattern soon. Even if Black Cat Creations doesn't pick my pattern up for their line I will self publish and you will find it in my Etsy shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991


Going to work on my projects now. Will keep you posted.

You can see my new items here.


Grandma Susan Quilts

HAPPY THURSDAY EVERYONE

Today was a great day at It's A Stitch in Humble, Texas.

There are loads of new products going up on the web and pre-orderable fabrics.

CHECK OUT MY MINI ETSY STORE! :)

OUR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

All went well over the holiday...in spite of the "dreaded lady" who put out our hot dog roasting fire! Yes, and she put it out BEFORE our hot dogs were ready....grrrrr!

Not all was lost however, we caught lots and lots of catfish...lost a few (one really big one...HONEST).

BUT then on Saturday we went to the ER because L.C. got gourd by a catfish fin. He got 4 stitches and a tetanus shot. All was not lost though. We kept on a fishin'. The ER doctor gave him gloves and told him not to get the hand wet. L.C. was such a trooper. He kept right on fishing.

Janace and I fished and "caught" a real bad sun burn. LOL

Tuesday was back to work as usual. It seemed like Monday...so I guess today, Wed., feels like Tuesday (except it is pay day and we always get paid every other Wed.). Guess by Friday it will feel like Thursday and I'll be surprised that I get the next day off.

Today at It's A Stitch was a great day. Ordering product as usual and getting new job assignments. Please visit our store at http://www.itsastitchonline.com/ you will be so happy you did.
We have many new products, pre-orderable books, fabrics, etc.

While you're on line don't forget to go to my Etsy store also. You can find me at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991 I've added new product since Monday and plan to even more product before the week is out.

Have a very blessed day. And when you pray please pray for our friend Maura. She is 21 years old and has Hodgkin's lymphoma . While MD Anderson removed the original tumor (Toby by name) he now has offspring. You can read all about it on Maura's blog spot at http://www.mauraupdate.blogspot.com/.

THANK YOU for taking your time to read this blog and for praying for Maura and her family.

Grandma Susan

MAY 22, 20008

Oh for a long weekend....tomorrow evening we will travel to our fishing get away with friends in their motor home! :)

We will fish....fish...fish...AND fish some more. It will be hot here in Texas and we (my friend and I) will also take along our fabrics...and all the supplies we can load up at one time and when it gets to hot to fish....we will be sewing in the cool of the A/C of the motor home! I love "camping" out. Don't you?

Boy, life is good!

What ever y'all are doing this holiday please be safe and have loads of fun.

Don't forget if you have your computer up and running check out itsastitchonlin.com and grandpagrandmasattic in our Etsy store.

God bless.
GrandmaSusan

HAPPY WEDNESDAY EVERYONE

This is, Wednesday, May 21, 2008.

Today I have added new product to my on line store at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991

Later, I will go to work at It's A Stitch, the most wonderful quilt store in the greater Houston, Texas area. See our on line store at www.itsastitchonline.com You won't be disappointed.

After work I'm having dinner with friends at one of our local restaurants to discuss business ideas! There are 4 of us and 3 have our own on line businesses. You can find Dawn at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=102273 and Michelle at http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5371267.

Dawn sells vintage and craft supplies. Michelle makes her own purse designs. Both their shops are FABULOUS!

As for me, I am destashing my sewing room and selling things that I have learned to live without. I make yo yo supplies, some jewelry, well.........let's just say I "do a lot of stuff".

Hope you all have a wonderful day.
"Today is the day that The Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Until later. Susan

OMG

This is so very sad...I just realized how LONG it's been since I posted anything or even thought about it! SAD...SAD...SAD..I say! :(

But, I must admit I've been super busy with my ETSY shop. Please check it out! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=82991

Many new items have been added in the last several months, with more on the way.

Don't forget to buy handmade!

Grandma/Susan