If you are free this weekend why not go and see Quilts in the Barn, an Open Garden and Quilt Exhibition in Wonga Park.  I’ve never been before but have been told by about 4 different girls that it’s a worthwhile thing to visit.  And what’s more funds raised go to Breast Cancer Research.  You can follow the link provided or call 9722 2777 for details.

I think it’s a great place but it’s SO good that others agree!  I can’t tell you how happy it makes me to know that others are enjoying Sewjourn – that was our original idea and dream and I just can’t stop smiling to know that it’s really happening!  All the guests that have stayed have been really positive but the girls this weekend have had a ball…….they’ve even given me their dates for regular bookings next year!  You can read what they have to say here and here (and I did NOT put them up to this!!!!!)  Best of all it gives me new incentive to do all the extra crafty bits and pieces I have in mind for Sewjourn so that there are some new things for them to ooh and ahh over next time………now, just to find the time to actually do some crafting!  A lovely friend did give us a Horn Sewing Cabinet yesterday which will be great to store the ‘girls’ new sewing machine in, so I need to reorganise the front room a bit which is a good excuse to pull out some half-finished projects.

At 11.55pm I am cutting it fine to make the post for today…..but here goes.

Two Japanese fabrics from my stash. The plan is to make something that includes some Sashiko embroidery as well………just haven’t decided what yet.

What a gorgeous day in Melbourne – it’s a pity that I had to work from 2-7pm!  But afterwards we had a lovely family picnic at our local park.

This morning I managed to score a sewing machine at a garage sale for only $25!  It does sew but is feeding a little bit unevenly.  Does anyone have a manual for a Wertheim 3100 Sewing Machine?  Or know how we can get hold of a copy – can’t seem to find one on the internet.  Now there is no excuse for teaching the girls how to quilt!

Family Bowling Night tonight for school – lots of work to organise but lots of fun had by all!  Now ready for lots of sleep so short post today!

CONGRATULATIONS DAVE & TARA!!!!!

We are so pleased for you both……..it’s about time for another family wedding!

Two friends and I set off today on the first of a few ‘road trips’ around Victoria to visit some patchwork shops – all in the name of marketing for Sewjourn of course!   The gorgeous Drapers of Mt Macedon was the first stop followed by Ballarat Patchwork where we were all so pleased to learn that Emma is no longer selling her business – YEAH!  As always, it’s like being kids in a lolly shop being there.

What a fun day!!!  We already have at least 3 more planned………….

These are on the wall of the studio at Sewjourn.  I made them by stretching fabric in an embroidery hoop and tightening the hoop as much as possible.  They are simply hung on a small nail.  I love the idea that they can be changed easily when a new look is needed.

I was just reading Quilt Fabric Delights newsletter and Sarah mentions that it is only just over 70 days until Christmas…………got me wondering – has this year just gone so fast because we have been so busy or does it just feel that way because I am getting older!??

Anyway, it also reminded me that we need to do our Operation Christmas Child boxes.  I can highly recommend this fantastic project which provides Christmas gifts to children overseas who would otherwise not receive any gifts at all.  My girls love to join in packing them as well and it’s a great opportunity for them to learn about other children who are not as fortunate as us.

First Sunday Stash fabric is a Poppy oilcloth by Cath Kidston – purchased by my husband (under strict instructions!) when he was last in the UK.

There’s a list of others playing Sunday Stash here.