tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17794156940729416222024-03-18T04:03:43.411+01:00Jovita's Patchwork Atelier<em>Notes and sketches from my studio ...</em>peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.comBlogger190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-60597919491267293662016-03-07T22:54:00.001+01:002016-03-07T23:20:26.972+01:00Flying By ... with an update and a craft<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, I've been AWOL - but you probably noticed. What I didn't realize of course is that it has been over a year. That does not mean I haven't thought about you ... and if you're on Facebook I've tried to pop in periodically to write an update or post a quick photo.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Things have been crazy, beautiful, busy, confusing.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Our little wonder just turned 3 years old. </span><br />
We are entering a new phase and momma is feeling more out of sorts than ever.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But first .. a glimpse at our little man ... and his very proud parents.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/24969026733/in/datetaken/" title="birthday 3"><img alt="birthday 3" height="333" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1448/24969026733_cd74d039ac.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He's gotten crazy tall and walks with a funny relaxed gait.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is incredibly quiet, sensitive and loving.<br />
<br />
Finn likes to RUN and go FAST!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He loves to laugh, tickle and be tickled. His sense of humor makes me laugh too.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He amazes me with his ability to take in the three languages (English, German & Dutch)<br />
that surround him and he repeats everything he hears like a parrot.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This year Finn learned to ride his balance bike and a tricycle.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is crazy about cars, autos, trucks, trains, trams and backhoes (baggers in German).<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The day is not complete unless he has played outside rain or shine, cold, wind or warm.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He will point out a full moon versus a sickle moon or a half moon<br />
(these phrases are all in German learned from his best papa).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Oh, and he LOVES butterflies! </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Momma might have gone a little crazy for his birthday and had a lot of fun decorating.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/24970201393/in/datetaken/" title="butterfly wall"><img alt="butterfly wall" height="333" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1551/24970201393_cb6e03df35.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Next week we are going on Finn's first train trip - a long one so I thought it might be a good idea to have a little entertainment with us. I decided to make a 'quick' memory game and of course Butterflies were the obvious theme ...<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/25477136622/in/datetaken/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="butterfly pairs"><img alt="butterfly pairs" height="374" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1527/25477136622_f9368b086b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/25503064291/in/datetaken/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="butterfly box"><img alt="butterfly box" height="236" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1611/25503064291_87c3dc58ee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/24965272704/in/datetaken/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="butterflies in tin"><img alt="butterflies in tin" height="236" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1665/24965272704_a7da0f8469.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
.. and eventually I stumbled onto <a href="http://www.elternvommars.com/2015/05/blumen-samen-und-insekten-ein-rezept.html?showComment=1457389147360#c710177977339997919" target="_blank">this</a> and yelled jackpot. It helped that I speak German because I really had to hunt through to find the links to the PDFs, but if you're patient you can just scroll your mouse through the paragraphs and it will 'light up' when you hit them. I used <a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-47177080/stock-photo-butterflies-background.html" target="_blank">this</a> for the reverse side of the cards. Printed single-sided on regular copy paper and stuck together lightly with a gluestick, I cut them out, rounded the corners and then laminated them.<br />
<br />
I just happened to have the perfect size tin in the house so we are travel ready. Finn and I played our first game of memory today, matching up the pairs of Butterfly wings. He loved it! I was surprised how well he remembered where they were.<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/25228220049/in/datetaken/" style="text-align: start;" title="butterflies in action"><img alt="butterflies in action" height="333" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1494/25228220049_bde10b9ef0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
I ♥ this kid's hands!!!<br />
<br />
I'll try to stop by again ... hopefully before another entire year flashes by.</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-50817864298314535552014-12-23T21:29:00.001+01:002014-12-23T21:29:33.269+01:00One Last Craft<div style="text-align: justify;">
Squeezing in one last project before Christmas. The idea is that Finn will know/learn that what's on this plate is ok for him to eat. We're still catering to wheat and dairy allergies (along with washing powder and anything out of a tin can) so Momma has been very busy making cookies he *can* have for Christmas.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/16088012221" title="Momma Made - Finn Approved by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Momma Made - Finn Approved" height="250" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7515/16088012221_a8e4bc6b7d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/15902648580" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Untitled by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="150" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7512/15902648580_613b2e6973_q.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wheat-free, dairy-free <br />gingerbread men</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was a very quick, as in less than 15 minutes to draw with Sharpies on a dinner plate we already had, project. The colors changed drastically during the baking process. I'm not disappointed and actually think it's kind of cool they went all Christmassy on me.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/16089220552" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Untitled by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="150" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8650/16089220552_28743bb0cb_q.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my ridiculous looking <br />pfefferneuße - not Finn ok</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My biggest hope for 2015 is that I can share you some of the things I've made this year. They are not many but I am proud of them. And maybe even get to tell you about <i>how</i> I did some of them. Most are not sewing related but they all made me feel creative and energized. Something else I look forward to being more and having more of in the New Year.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/15470247803" title="Christmas2014 TLF by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas2014 TLF" height="359" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7502/15470247803_7879d76d51.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And with that, I wish each and every one of you the very Merriest and Blessed of Christmases from our little farm on the outskirts of Gent, Belgium.</div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/15902648580" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><br /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
xox Jovita
</div>
<br />
<br />peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-23701107153900694122014-10-16T23:01:00.001+02:002014-10-17T14:14:01.889+02:00Heehee haha hoho<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm a terrible blogger. I know. I'm sorry.</span></div><div><br></div><div>I do miss blogging. And I miss you.</div><div><br></div><div>I doubt that is any consolation ...</div><div><br></div><div>Slowly, very, very slowly things are coming together around here.</div><div><br></div><div>Our little guy keeps me busy.</div><div>Our little farm keeps me busy.</div><div>My big boy doesn't mean to keep me busy.</div><div>But he does.</div><div><br></div><div>I was ticked beyond belief to get a half hour to draft and sew.</div><div><br></div><div>Between little sleep and a tummy bug, it needed to happen.</div><div>Autumn has arrived and it was time for a hat that keeps Finn's little ears warm.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1E8O5Gas3t5DoxqSXWC4G7zxXrDEVNHBcAX-uus-XTich7y4C6AOk3ERmdljgNfleDO95oSg269ig9ZHaoVcnCo1BKofgvdb_jGrnWy9qL-Pz5mwSIdjpZyBMtXFNYRVVCbeXC-HfAGs/s640/blogger-image-1081857233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1E8O5Gas3t5DoxqSXWC4G7zxXrDEVNHBcAX-uus-XTich7y4C6AOk3ERmdljgNfleDO95oSg269ig9ZHaoVcnCo1BKofgvdb_jGrnWy9qL-Pz5mwSIdjpZyBMtXFNYRVVCbeXC-HfAGs/s640/blogger-image-1081857233.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It was absolutely thrilling to walk into my studio and find the perfect fabrics.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Better yet, it matches all three of his shoulder-season jackets <i class="_4-k1 img sp_EM2HXYHHm4y sx_3dbd88" style="vertical-align: -3px; background-image: url(https://fbstatic-a.akamaihd.net/rsrc.php/v2/yZ/r/FKYwtkMOy-M.png); background-size: 26px 8167px; display: inline-block; height: 16px; width: 16px; background-position: 0px -7816px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat;"></i> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I tend to put it on like a slouchy hat ... </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But when I picked him up from school today he was sporting a different (but do-able) style </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">... and a big fat lip. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Poor little guy rolled his car. </span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">*** </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The title is in reference to a 'Jim Knopf' episode ... Let's pretend the dinosaurs are dragons, ok?</span></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-64187354618534847572014-02-11T16:39:00.002+01:002014-02-11T16:39:55.846+01:00Monday's are Mine<div style="text-align: center;">
Yahooooooo ha ha Yipppeeee,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you see what I see?<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12459700873/" title="close enough by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="close enough" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7409/12459700873_17ab5658f3.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a fantastic weekend which included a spontaneous quilting bee with friends I haven't seen in ages on Saturday and Axel coming home earlier from work on Sunday, Monday was as good as if not better than last week.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Call it WAW, WAM </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or just<br />
why not?<br />
yes!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
thank you MAM!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was goooooood!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I woke up refreshed and while Finn fed himself breakfast (yes, I know!!!), I made a big pot of spaghetti sauce and stirred together a loaf 100% sourdough rye bread to rise. I had a class in the evening to prep for but first a couple of ladies dropped in to work on our <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/search/label/RPW" target="_blank">cross-stitch border samplers</a>. I'd show you an update but I haven't taken a pics lately and the lovely light from this morning has been replaced by a lovely light drizzle.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12460062484/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="do you see what i see by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="do you see what i see" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3707/12460062484_cb1f4f9038.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night I taught the next installment of my (in)famous Skills Building class. It was fun, but it does tax my brain to remember everything while concentrating on proper translation at the same time. We're doing ok and I repeat myself a lot. I am make a list of notes / comments / thoughts under the heading 'lost in translation.'</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This morning my sewing machine was still set up<br />
on the dining room table so I thought heck. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12459708863/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="put to good use by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="put to good use" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3675/12459708863_f5feb7b0ae.jpg" height="333" style="cursor: move;" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
Why not?<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12460041234/" title="breakfast with patchwork by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="breakfast with patchwork" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/12460041234_0ea9cf7e7b.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finn settled in next to me fed himself toast with peanut butter and I fork-fed almost an entire baked pear to him in between seams. It was lovely. He was closely enough to reach over and touch my shoulder. Which he did often. Peanut butter and all. I was close enough I could lean over and kiss the top of his head. It was lovely. Did I say that already?</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12459686963/" title="oma's (bugel)eisen by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="oma's (bugel)eisen" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3731/12459686963_e3a7cbc25c.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<b>So what do you see?</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's a bit of what you don't see ...</div>
<div>
* I need to figure out this tension issue I've been having with my featherweight</div>
<div>
* Some body(s) are still in their pajamas</div>
<div>
* That seam ripper was put to good use</div>
<div>
* The iron belonged to Finn's great-grandmother</div>
<div>
* This post almost got the title "Close Enough" ... ugh, I struggled with some of my seams but persevered and I'm ok, happy. The pinwheel is better than the multiple goose ...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12459505305/" title="skills 4A & 5A by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="skills 4A & 5A" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7376/12459505305_c047dc8a6b.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And today? Well it's not mine. After that fantastic start, things kind of went to pot. To be honest, I think somebody was playing me. He wouldn't nap. He wouldn't play. He wouldn't eat. He wouldn't drink from a sippy. I finally stepped back. Ate my lunch which got him a bit interested. Put milk in a sippy (instead of water .. we're trying to wean, so this was good!). Then he played before I threw him back in bed. He tried to say NO but momma held out and all is quiet in dream land. For now.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
I'm just glad I made such a big pot of spaghetti yesterday. It will be leftovers tonight for sure.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So for now I'm afraid I'll have to leave you. Although the cooking is done, there is still a tad of housework to do. And darn, I should clear my sewing machine of the dining room table. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
BUT .. over the weekend there was another development .. we finally set up a table in my office so hopefully you'll being seeing more !! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd love to give you some more of those <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/p/morning-stars.html" target="_blank">Morning Stars</a>.</div>
<div>
And I'd really really like to work on my <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2012/05/overflowing.html" target="_blank">Troost quilt</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Those two .. that's my goal. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Something for me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Something for you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, and a coat for Finn.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12460071794/" title="100% rye sourdough by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="100% rye sourdough" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3733/12460071794_714da9be39.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh .. and the need for 100% rye bread ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn is allergic .. to wheat, spelt, milk and maybe eggs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And a little sensitive to salmon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So until he's done breastfeeding, I'm avoiding all those too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bummer but I'm coping and it's good practice for what options we will have to find for him.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At least I'm still ok with chocolate, coffee & peanut butter.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A girl can live on those after all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... and before I could hit publish, he's awake, again ...</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-24526345978360393082014-02-05T16:04:00.000+01:002014-02-11T16:34:31.126+01:00{almost} Wordless Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323563024/" title="Lewis by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Lewis" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3733/12323563024_55a667cef6.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323129465/" title="Finn's chart is growing by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Finn's chart is growing" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7325/12323129465_14ffd312dd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323135035/" title="Finn by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Finn" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/12323135035_6f36ef1393.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323279813/" title="Clark by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Clark" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2806/12323279813_4e000db084.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323132015/" title="RPW rows 2-12 by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="RPW rows 2-12" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5550/12323132015_38186cd49f.jpg" width="320" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12323133595/" title="Food by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Food" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2838/12323133595_ec96ee9eba.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I forgot to buy bacon for my broccoli salad.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-6032672709878643342014-02-04T16:59:00.001+01:002014-02-04T21:12:43.803+01:00Today, I bring you WAM Wow, <b>W</b>hat <b>a</b> <b>M</b>onday!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If this is any indication of what this week will be like, bring it on! You know when you wake up refreshed and the sun is shining. And when the baby is in good spirits and naps well, it's all good.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12306275645/" title="Peek a Boo by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Peek a Boo" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/12306275645_6b5bd464d5.jpg" height="441" width="500" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday was incredible.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The sun was shining and gorgeous.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I worked in the garden. Finally planting some of my bulbs that were beginning to sprout.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finn got a bath, which always takes longer than I think. These days it's really a squeeze to fit in a little play, lunch and a bath between naps. Which is why we do *not* do it every day.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The bonus is that while Finn splashed about I managed to fold a whole load of whites and hang another load of cloth diapers. <i>Reminder to self: the purchase of an old english style from the ceiling drying rack is getting more urgent. Finn splashes about so much in his little bath it would be really handy to mop when he is done without all the drying racks standing in the way.</i></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I ironed at least 6 pieces of clothing, something for everyone in the family.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had an amazing lunch, leftovers from the previous night's dinner .. it involved a favorite for everyone. Butternut squash for Finn, quinoa for me and spinach for papa with a liberal heap of garlic and leeks to boot. Yes all in one dish. It was Delicious, with a capital D. I'll try to write it down .. man, that's the 3rd thing I want to tell you about kitchen-wise. Must get going on that too.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
I ended the day purely in my element ... teaching a class, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the first in over a year, or maybe even two. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first in this house. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was fun and wonderful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My students are the best!!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>It's also one of my best classes, some of you know it </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and love it as much as I do. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Think old-school with modern tools.</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The ins and outs, whys and what fors. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12306434583/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Pearl's SKILLS by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Pearl's SKILLS" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7338/12306434583_7d01b7012e.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo taken of a few years ago of Pearl's blocks<br />
during a discussion about colors and setting options.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Skills-building ... if you've taken this class I'd love if you'd leave a comment and tell us what you thought, learned and / or enjoyed about it. I'd be over the moon if you sent me a picture of your quilt!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today wasn't much different. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Although I feel a tad less accomplished, the weather was gorgeous and I did work in the garden while Finn napped. It's warmer than yesterday which makes me a little sad. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm still hoping for snow. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was hoping to see / experience our first snow on This * Little * Farm. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was hoping Finn would see his first snow.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He's even dressed (to sleep) like a snowbaby </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and was having a sweet moment with Mr. Snowman ...</div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12306558474/" title="image by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="image" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5499/12306558474_773e1370b1.jpg" height="500" width="333" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
That said, I do remember that our worst/best/most snow last year </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
was actually after he was born so maybe there is still hope.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12306880856/" title="Proof positive the sun is shining on This * Little * Farm by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Proof positive the sun is shining on This * Little * Farm" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3670/12306880856_37bc956ed0.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's hard to imagine that we're coming up on a year ago already. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Axel brought this basket of daffodils to the hospital last year when the boys were born. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And now .. we're already into February, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
before the month is over </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
my <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2013/03/hes-here.html" target="_blank">little itsy bitsy baby boy</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
will turn <span style="font-size: large;">1</span> year old.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm maybe a tad in denial. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A tad sad. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But ooooh so excited.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today I took pics of him in his little bed, a beautiful antique loaned from a friend. He really outgrew it a while ago but I love it so much and since he isn't rolling we've stuck to it, but now it's really time.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8768891259/" target="_blank">gorgeous quilt</a> is a gift from our friend Lisa.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12306643563/" title="image by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="image" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2830/12306643563_f365c5b986.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the left Finn is 2-1/2 months old, on the right 8 months.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hand projects in the evening are still mainly my <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/keeping-track.html" target="_blank">Randjes per Week</a>, but I might have to take a break and knit Finn another hat. We're kind of wondering if he's allergic to wool and <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/first-finish-finn-approved.html" target="_blank">that cute hat</a> I made him. I would be sooo sad if his is ....</div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-13924507951114362502014-01-31T12:54:00.001+01:002014-02-11T16:36:01.235+01:00Innocent until Proven Guilty I'm just hoping you'll let me off for good behavior ...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12234818254/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="1/2" 'peppermint' hexies by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="1/2" 'peppermint' hexies" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5520/12234818254_243a226f87_m.jpg" height="160" width="240" /></a>We've been sick around here. Not really really sick. Just that icky yucky feeling that makes you a tad grumpy, impatient and tired. Just the kind that interrupts naps and sending papa to sleep in the babies room so that when he wakes at 10pm after going down at 7:30 and stays up until 1am momma is right there so that when he wakes at 4 coughing ... well you get the picture right.
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So in between wiping noses, drinking lots of *peppermint* tea and doing my best to keep the household running</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>one innocent project lead to another</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It started with <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/keeping-track.html" target="_blank">this</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
which lead to <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/let-it-be-peppermint.html" target="_blank">this</a> and along with all this talk of <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/let-it-be-peppermint.html" target="_blank">peppermint</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
got me to thinking about this</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12234038774/" title="peppermint candy by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="peppermint candy" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2861/12234038774_5f847e6c56.jpg" height="500" width="333" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
and this<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12233810293/" title="turq & red by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="turq & red" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3763/12233810293_3f774c0db8.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Then this happened<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12234035074/" title="thread-hexies by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="thread-hexies" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3754/12234035074_df71b34844.jpg" height="325" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
and then this<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12234198976/" title="innocent by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="innocent" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3782/12234198976_d41485fa33.jpg" height="500" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
I think I might be guilty ..<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.. but after awhile it's just fun to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/sets/72157627377099580/" target="_blank">take pictures and dream about hexagons</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And think of doing a swap / exchange .. of so many types, things and kinds.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I think that will have to wait .. until I can find the time between wiping noses and<br />
cups of peppermint tea.<br />
<br />
In fact somewhere there is a cup with my name on it. I'm off now to follow the strewn tissues in the hopes it leads me to a mugga easily warmed to enjoy before that little guy is awake again.<br />
<br />
Ha, spoke to soon! Off to wipe a nose, plant a kiss, change a (cloth) diaper and conjure up some lunch. Maybe even plan dinner. Or order dinner .. it is Friday after all .. and boy am I glad to see Friday.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/5354358090/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Candy Canes by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Candy Canes" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5204/5354358090_f1f0264cba.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
Disclaimer: In the writing of this blog post, a candy cane or two may have been dropped into a cuppa or two of coffee purely to aid the writer in staying awake and alert while nursing her obsession with peppermint. Did you know they are impossible to find here? You can occasionally get candy canes, in fact they are becoming more frequent during the holiday period. But they are <i>alarmingly</i> not peppermint flavoured. Strawberry, vanilla and even tasteless we have seen, but no peppermint. Not even at Starbucks .. shame on them, right? Thankfully I've got a few friends and a cousin who send and/or smuggle peppermint candy canes on a random basis. Special enough that they get their own jar with a ribbon tied around it's neck.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-38495327019509350362014-01-21T20:59:00.001+01:002014-01-31T14:58:07.782+01:00Let it be Peppermint<div style="text-align: center;">
At least let it be peppermint. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're going to spill tea that is. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let it be peppermint.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yep, all over the end table, between things and on things.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A whole cup. At least it was peppermint.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12073361793/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="closeup mini sampler by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="closeup mini sampler" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/12073361793_b4d79b3a24.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The mess is cleaned up. And I'm about to boil the kettle and try again. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I thought I'd stop by and say a really quick Hello.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn is sleeping. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the next few minutes at least. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He's teething. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So we never know. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Two more teeth are about to break through. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Any day now. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For a total of 6 .. in just a few weeks. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Momma's tired.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Momma was already tired yesterday.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then she called the vet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To talk about our dog. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's time to make some decisions. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not easy ones.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After the heavy conversation. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While Finn was sleeping. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I walked down to the mail box.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was a card ... telling us that another of </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Axel's college friends had passed away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
During the holidays. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just shy of the new year.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I sat down and buried my head and my sorrow in a bit of stitchery.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Axel came home, we had dinner, Finn was in bed by 7 but there were taxes to do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I stayed up stitching, until the wee hours ... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ooooh is this the only time mommas get for quiet time and stitching?? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please tell me it's not true.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because ...</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/12073703066/" title="mini sampler by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="mini sampler" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/12073703066_7f7d221066.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
... a <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2014/01/keeping-track.html" target="_blank">mini version of this project</a> was just the ticket. </div>
<br />
One strand of DMC 792 stitched over one thread of 28 count 100% linen band that is 2-1/2" wide. I doubt I'll do the entire project, just pick and choose as I go. I'm already not fond of that last row but I'm too stubborn to pick it out.<br />
<br />
It fit the bill though. I sat down and stitched. It takes a lot of concentration and/but with every stitch I thought about a lot of things.<br />
<br />
There are still decisions to be made about Whisper, but Axel leaves early tomorrow morning by train to attend our friend's funeral in Germany. It would be too hard and long of a drive for Finn so he is going on behalf of all of us. He'll meet up with other college friends and be with them.<br />
<br />
I had planned to tell you about our last week of Sundays and visitors and good intentions but that will have to wait. Maybe I'll catch a few minutes to write while papa is away and Finn is sleeping. But maybe not, this momma needs to sleep too. While papa is away this momma plans to sleep when Finn does. Even if the stitching, and the cleaning, blogging and reading have to wait. We'll eat and sleep and hopefully go shopping, since we have the car (yipppeeee!)<br />
<br />
In the meantime, hopefully another peppermint tea is involved in my evening. And some quiet time with Axel. And of course some stitching. In the corner, next to where I spilled my tea this morning.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
At least it was peppermint and it smells nice.</div>
<br />
<br />peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-80080545137275452662014-01-11T22:37:00.000+01:002014-01-11T22:37:24.679+01:00First Finish - Finn Approved<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11894225476/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Hat2GoWScarf by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Hat2GoWScarf" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3711/11894225476_8b2a3d9a4c.jpg" height="500" width="333" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So happy to share a first finish for 2014 with you.<br />
<br />
It's Finn's Christmas present, luckily he won't know it was a tad late due to a running out the door mistake (I'll explain in a minute).<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you've been following along on Facebook you'll have heard and / or seen a bit about this project.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It started with this gorgeous gift of a scarf from Finn's Onkel Rolf. I was already working on a new winter hat for him but quickly set it aside for this project. I already had all the right colors .. and more (yes, I'll confess .. in a minute). </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11893775143/" title="Finnished by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Finnished" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3751/11893775143_410a6025e3.jpg" height="407" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To make a long story short, it's a hat with many trials and errors, but in the end persistence triumphed and I honestly couldn't be happier. Finn wore it to the store tonight and was already getting compliments. As in he, the wearer. Not momma, the maker. But that's ok .. I was (maybe not so secretly) glowing with pride, and besides I know who made him ;) wink!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think my favorite part was the pompom. I was so excited to put Finn down for his nap yesterday. Lucky ducky momma me .. he's a dream at naptime and most bedtimes too. Give him a kiss, say g'night, tuck in him and he *sings* himself to sleep. Honestly the sweetest thing you've ever heard. One day I'll get it on tape. All this ... so momma has a few minutes (or TWO hours!!!) to do stuff. Like Make Pom Poms!! I did the math, it's been at least 30 years since I made a pompom. I seriously want to make more.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11893783074/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="pompom prep by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="pompom prep" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2847/11893783074_7efa5db977.jpg" height="392" width="400" /></a>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So .. I gathered all my supplies. And went to town. Just like I remember doing a few donkeys years ago ... my template? The outer measurement the base of a water glass, the inner a large sewing machine bobbin. Done. No compass. No hunting. Just Making a Pompom!!
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you've never made on and / or need a few tips. Google it. There are a lot of people out there who are willing to show you how to make one. I think the most important trick is to wrap and wrap and wrap to fill up that inner hole as much as possible. Then cut between your two layers of cardboard. I know scarey. Just use sharp scissors and go slow. See why I waited until Finn was in bed. Then thread your doubled-thread through and pull very very tight. Voilá!! Last but not least trim to your heart's desire.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am pleased to report that this pompom was Finn approved.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11894218646/" title="pompom scrutiny by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="pompom scrutiny" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5513/11894218646_8c062814ac.jpg" height="497" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11894221516/" title="Nurturing a Critic by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Nurturing a Critic" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5536/11894221516_34b2b1ccf7.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">You can find <a href="http://ravel.me/peawink/tpfhe" target="_blank">this project on Ravelry here</a>.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
hmmm, oh. yes . that confession.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ugh .. this happened. And I almost left it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But then we went for a walk. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In daylight.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11894314256/" title="Finn's Ooops Hat by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Finn's Ooops Hat" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/11894314256_32d8d7cf7b.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lesson learned .. before running out the door to spend Finn's first Christmas with friends and family in Germany. Check, double check, re-check your double check and check again that you have the right ball of almost white yarn. You know. The one that is the same as you started with. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But still, he's adorable, right?<br />
And that scarf!<br />
He is one very lucky.<br />
Very spoiled. Boy. Indeed.<br />
<i>Thanks again Onkel Rolf, kisses from Finn</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And with that I say goodnight. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And hope that our little friends aren't running fevers tomorrow because we've scheduled our first ever get-together with friends from the NICU. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At our house. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On this * little * farm. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After such a long time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xox J</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-35066640864955504542014-01-07T16:55:00.000+01:002014-02-11T16:36:22.439+01:00Keeping Track<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's that time of year when you look back at lists .. things you DID do .. like bring a baby home from the hospital!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And things you DIDn't do .. like, ahem .. finish any projects.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course there are always those landmark events too .. like having a baby, celebrating his baptism, recording his first Thanksgiving, remembering his first Christmas ..</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also looking foward to new things this year. Finn's birthday is only just around the corner, followed by Easter and then a whole summer of Funn! as I anticipate him learning to walk. Oh boy!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Axel will tell you I've been driving myself crazy trying to keep notes, records and photographing everything. I know I can't count on my memory. Thank goodness for digital and datestamps on photographs!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With Finn growing like a weed, I've been looking at ways to record that too. And wow, there are a LOT of ideas out there. I thought I had <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/peawink/" target="_blank">pinned</a> my favorite growthchart ideas, but alas it must have been done in my sleep because I can't find them. Except for <a href="http://www.montanaprairietales.com/blog/2013/5/23/measuring-up.html" target="_blank">this one</a> that was clearly a frontrunner.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That is until I saw this project designed by Simone of <a href="http://www.soedidee.nl/" target="_blank">Atelier Soed Idee</a> <a href="http://quiltsandsiggies.blogspot.nl/" target="_blank">Annelies</a> featuring cross-stitch borders from <a href="http://quiltsandsiggies.blogspot.nl/" target="_blank">Annelies</a>' collection of antique samplers. The patterns are published every Saturday on a blog dedicated to the <a href="http://randjeperweek.blogspot.nl/" target="_blank">Randje per Week</a> stitch-a-long. There is also a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/randjeperweek/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I decided this would make the perfect growth chart and be something unique, because what does one DO with their children's growth charts?? I'm thinking this might end up on the back of his wedding quilt. Maybe? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So I looked all around a fabric options and funnily it wasn't hard at all to choose the black. I ordered my fabric and finally got to start last night. This is how far I got. Eventually there will be 106 rows in the entire pattern. There were three borders this week but I chose to not include the first one. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11819097895/" title="SI-RPW1a by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="SI-RPW1a" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/11819097895_dc8c0dd362.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not bad consider that after the baby was in bed, dishes done and a *very* quick tidy up it was already 10pm. Thankfully hubby picked up after that, started the dishwasher and hung a load of laundry on the drying rack.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So the details. I am embroidering over 2 threads on <a href="http://www.soedidee.nl/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=yagendoo_VaMazing_1.tpl&product_id=1932&category_id=34&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=27&lang=en" target="_blank">30 count pure linen</a> using 2 strands of Weeks Dye Works embroidery floss in a variegated dark grey / black called "Kohl" (Coal) #3900. My second color, which I understand does not appear until week (or row?) seven will probably be bright red. I still have to decide how I am going to finish the edges. I have ideas (although they might change) for indicating the "measure" and incorporating his semi-annual height markings.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And NO I did not need another project, but I am quite happy about one that can be finished in an evening or two. Just for me .. and for Finn.<br />
<br />
Speaking of Finn, he woke up all rosy posy this morning. A joy for sore eyes (phew, yes .. I am noticing my age after working on that late last night!). I swear his hair grew overnight. The red is sadly gone and the palest whitest blond is quickly filling in.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11819087195/" title="Rosy Posy Finn by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Rosy Posy Finn" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/11819087195_41170bab53.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Thankfully his rash / cradle cap is getting better. It's taken us a while to figure out but Finn is allergic to milk and probably wheat. So until we're done breastfeeding that's no cheese for momma .. and boy does she miss it!! I've been lactose intolerant for a few years so had cut back extremely enjoying only goat's milk (fresh, straight from the farm) and cheeses, but NO cheese is killing me. Did I mention I also got a filling without anaesthesia .. yes, that is how much I love this boy!!! </span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11820414656/" title="TWO by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="TWO" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7341/11820414656_4221bc45c0.jpg" height="333" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">We're getting close the the one year mark though </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">*and* he sprung two teeth last week so it won't be much longer. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn is a dream of a baby. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A happy chappy. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
His laugh makes my heart smile.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And that DO / DID list, suddenly it doesn't matter nearly as much.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xox J</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-9776164633491314522014-01-02T07:46:00.001+01:002014-01-08T09:31:14.500+01:00So Many Questions<div style="text-align: center;">
Ooooooh, where to start?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so anxious to create, make, DO something. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I want to sew, paint, cook and work in the garden, but not clean. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Never clean.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11703347786/" title="JPA Jan 2014 by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7428/11703347786_87146e4203.jpg" width="500" height="194" alt="JPA Jan 2014"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
So, I have a question for you ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Considering I hardly posted in 2013, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
what do you want to hear, see and read about?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll be honest that quilting time is severely limited.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are you interested in all the other stuff that goes on around here?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sewing for Finn?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Decorating our new home?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Setting up our farm?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
I do occasionally blog a recipe in <a href="http://thelittlegreycookbook.blogspot.be/" target="_blank">the little grey cookbook</a> but haven't as often as I'd like. </div>
<div>
Even though I have tons of great recipes I'd love to share. </div>
<div>
Are pictures critical? </div>
<div>
<i>Or do you trust my salutations / salivations?</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Did you enjoy <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2012/06/what-week-june-1st.html" target="_blank">WAW</a> ?</div>
<div>
I miss it, but don't want to bore you to death. </div>
<div>
Would you participate?? </div>
<i>I sure would find that inspiring!</i><br />
<br />
Or just stick to quilting??<br />
Nothing else .. whenever I can ..<br />
<br />
<div>
Should I change the name of my blog?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Jovita's Patchwork Life ?</i></div>
<i>Jovita's Patchwork Puzzle ??</i></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin: 0px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
So many questions ...</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinu9ZMTycJp-FYkwAdDPLSEWo4r2H1C5mlSBd16MlLChTx5o4sAOmX1tCMPFRsdnEArhmkK9S7iwKwUwYxIrbTMsXoX7nYIyH8Y1TSXz-XohyphenhyphentJxBvbw-VTV6gj6lKRa-koSjUxGlH2pM/s1600/question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinu9ZMTycJp-FYkwAdDPLSEWo4r2H1C5mlSBd16MlLChTx5o4sAOmX1tCMPFRsdnEArhmkK9S7iwKwUwYxIrbTMsXoX7nYIyH8Y1TSXz-XohyphenhyphentJxBvbw-VTV6gj6lKRa-koSjUxGlH2pM/s200/question.jpg" height="200" width="151" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I sure would love your input ...</div>
<br />
<div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-6771560646556040872014-01-01T20:15:00.001+01:002014-01-02T07:30:11.196+01:00Ta Da!<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow, well ... it's another start to another year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I thought I better drop in to say hello ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To be honest, I'm a little sad to see 2013 come to an end.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What an exceptional year it has been for us!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Personally at least.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Professionally is a whole 'nother kettle of fish </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but honestly, I'm ok with that for now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's a new year coming!<br />
And I hope you'll stay tuned.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>This is what 2013 brought</b>
</span></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div>
<b>January</b> we waited on pins and needles after losing Finn's twin brothers in utero (mid-December) the main goal was to rest, rest and rest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>February</b> started out smooth, hit a bumpy patch and ended ecstatic as we welcomed our little bundle of joy into this big wide world in the wee hours of the 28th day. We had planned to celebrate Saskia & Arne's birthday with cake, but this pretty much topped those plans.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>March & April</b>? Well they were tiring, sometimes worrying but wonderful as we watched Finn grow slowly towards his the required take-home weight of 2300grams / 4-1/4 lbs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>May</b> was full. Nine-week-old Finn came home from the hospital, we celebrated part 2 of his christening, papa's birthday and mother's day all the same weekend then we watched the calendar count down to <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2013/05/hes-due-today.html" target="_blank">the day</a> he was 'supposed' to arrive.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>June, <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2013/07/5-months-and-growing-like-weed.html" target="_blank">July</a> and August</b> whizzed by in a flurry of summer rain punctuated by an enormous growth spurt and a terrible case of chickenpox. Finn developed sepsis and Momma spent 5 days with him in hospital. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On August 28th, the day Finn turned 6 months old, we woke up in our new home .. a beautiful little farm on 2-1/2 acres. The potential is immense. The work a little daunting. The peace and quiet breathtaking and inspiring. I promise to tell you more soon.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>September</b> was spent getting to know the farm a little better, unpacking and just letting down our hair for awhile.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>October and November</b>? Well, honestly, I'm not sure .. I've even checked my Facebook entries, there are *very* few. I do know Finn had his first cold, we took our first studio photos and celebrated his first Thanksgiving with friends. I will also admit I spend a lot of time just watching him grow, play and stretch. He amazes me. Daily. </div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>December</b> .. wow, another month of celebration. Decorating, baking, visiting and enjoying Finn's first Christmas.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="500" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11692110906/player/605296056e" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
So what are our plans for 2014?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wish I could tell you</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not really sure what they are </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... I'm open to suggestions </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and possibilities ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I <i>would</i> love to sew, quilt, craft more.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I <i>will</i> put Finn and our family first.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I <i>want</i> to blog, share, converse and connect.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will enjoy it. To the fullest.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because this year only comes once.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As does tomorrow.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I plan to start each new day like it's a new year!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How about you?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'd love to hear what you have planned ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Are you choosing <a href="http://www.incourage.me/2014/01/rewriting-resolutions-choosing-one-word.html" target="_blank">one word</a>?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I haven't</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I won't</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am open to everything ...<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and in the meantime<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
we wish you a very very </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy New Year</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="333" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/11691458275/player/6c615edb4b" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I can't wait to see what 2014 brings ...</b></span></div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-50349373656820823502013-07-30T14:57:00.001+02:002013-07-30T14:57:55.091+02:005 months and growing like a weed<div style="text-align: center;">
While I wasn't looking 5 months flew by ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/9398766753/" title="5 month Finn & Fynn by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="5 month Finn & Fynn" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3832/9398766753_0285930424.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
he surprised us all with a terrible bout of the chicken pox</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/9398799485/" title="thepox-JPA by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="thepox-JPA" height="213" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5472/9398799485_33a6061ce2.jpg" width="320" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and a gigantic growth spurt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/9401530812/" title="6 weeks growth spurt by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="6 weeks growth spurt" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/9401530812_d95aaa6fb2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">weight</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">4770 grams / 10-1/2 lbs</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<i>a gain of 1550 grams / 3 lbs, 6-2/3 oz in 6 weeks</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
length</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">57 cm / 22-7/16 in</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<i>he has grown 8,4 cm / 3-1/3 </i><i style="background-color: transparent;">in 6 weeks</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
head circumference</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">40,5 cm / 16 in</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<i>an expansion of 3,5 cm / 1-3/8 i</i><i style="background-color: transparent;">n 6 weeks</i></div>
<div style="font-size: 13px;">
<i style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></i>
<i style="background-color: transparent;">(Measurements from doctors appointments on 11 June and 25 July 2013)</i><br />
<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I have managed a little bit of sewing here and there ...<br />
I just need to find the time to photograph things.<br />
<br />
And it looks like we will be moving house.<br />
<br />
Very excited.<br />
<br />
Already exhausted.<br />
<br />
Smile.</div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-22534928795330969922013-06-25T02:48:00.001+02:002013-06-25T02:48:52.596+02:00Bloglovin'<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3652772/?claim=42qft77ajne">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br /><br /><br /><br />peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-12010354867630959152013-05-21T10:02:00.000+02:002013-05-22T10:03:43.459+02:00He's Due Today<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm afraid I forgot to tell you he was home.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And TODAY arrived.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The day he was due.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's amazing how far we've come.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I look forward to the rest of our journey.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8773728560/" title="today by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="today" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7401/8773728560_aba3c5da43.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
weight</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">2820 grams / 6 lbs, 3-1/2 oz</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>a gain of 1515 grams / 3 lbs, 5-1/2 oz since birth</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i>length</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">47,2 cm / 18.58 in</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>he has grown 7,7 cm / 3 in since birth</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
head circumference</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">35,5 cm / 14 in</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>an expansion of 8,3 cm / 3-1/4 in since birth</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On Thursday, 23 May, Finn will be 12 weeks old.
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-54645091839637840932013-04-25T16:40:00.002+02:002013-04-25T16:40:14.817+02:00Sweet Nothing<div style="text-align: center;">
That is exactly what I have been doing.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8681149736/" title="sweet nothing JPA by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="sweet nothing JPA" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8404/8681149736_9b579838b2.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No sewing and very little knitting .. there just isn't time to squeeze it all in. </div>
I have 2 free hours between each feeding to eat, shower, tidy up, edit pictures and document Finn's every move. <br />
<br />
I do have a room in the hospital just down the hall from him ... *and* I brought my featherweight, but it's still in it's little case. <br />
<br />
Maybe tomorrow, I keep saying.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, Finn reached two Milestones this week... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Yesterday he crossed the </b><b>2 kilo mark on the scale.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8679984735/" title="crossing 2kg by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="crossing 2kg" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8395/8679984735_cbd86c71b7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He's wearing one of the hats I knit while I was pregnant, I ravelled it <a href="http://ravel.me/peawink/x92vh" target="_blank">here</a> and there are also lots more pictures <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8678100234/in/photostream/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Today Finn is 8 weeks old.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8679713023/" title="8 weeks old by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="8 weeks old" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8679713023_f2544f18bb.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8680798320/in/photostream" target="_blank"><i>out-takes of this photo shoot can be seen here</i></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn is pictured here with "Sophie," a gift from one of my dearest friend ... Do any of you remember Sophie? I think I had one when <i>I</i> was little. If you've never met a Sophie before, she's 7" tall.<br />
<br />
Maybe one day I'll sew again ... </div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-83429829494297409362013-03-25T21:11:00.000+01:002013-03-25T21:11:12.086+01:00Snug as ...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">... a bug in his own little rug ...</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do apologize if all my latest posts are about our newest addition </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but hope you'll bear with me a little longer.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8590641614/" title="snuggly buggly by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="snuggly buggly" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8590641614_57bd657c25.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn will be in the hospital until at least April 23rd ... he must be at least 36 weeks (gestation) and weight 2.3 kilograms / 5 pounds to be released and come home.</div>
<br />
My husband and I were tallying up where my hours are going lately ... between the basics (showering and toiletry), pumping breastmilk (ugh), packing bags, driving too and from the hospital and finding the one parking spot that is still available a whopping NINE hours of my day are gone. And while we included clearing the table after meals we did forget to calculate time <i>at</i> the table.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I hope you don't mind too much as I periodically use snaps of my sweet as a placeholder here.</div>
<br />
I'll do my best to post some creativity .. I knit (slowly) while snuggling him skin-to-skin as much as possible each day ... but sadly this averages at about three hours. If I could I would be there full time ...<br />
<br />
Some of you have sent messages asking for updates on Finn so here's a quick run-down ...<br />
<ul>
<li>Today he's 32 weeks gestation ... on Thursday he will be a whole month old!!!</li>
<li>Finn almost weighs 1500 grams / 3 lbs, 5 ounces!!!</li>
<li>He has monitors for heart rate, respiration and oxygen saturation. All other monitors and IVs have been removed.</li>
<li>He receives feedings (we're up to 33 mls seven times per day) via a feeding tube.</li>
<li>Hopefully we'll be able to start some breastfeeding around 34 weeks.</li>
<li>Finn has grown a quilter's quarter inch since his birth!!</li>
</ul>
<br /><span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday he graduated to an open bed</span> - he is holding his own body temp so is snuggled with blankets and this busy mommy is smashing out some long-sleeve snuggles to help keep him warm and cosy.<br /><br />
And thank you .. to you one and all for your well wishes and sweet sweet comments. Next to snuggling with Finn, opening my mailbox (both cyber and postal) is the highlight of my day! I'm sorry that I don't have time at the moment to answer all your comments but I do read them all and often twice ... my husband has been particularly touched as we have heard from all corners of the earth from so many wonderful and kindred spirits.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">xox</span></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-19068391123214448422013-03-12T20:59:00.004+01:002013-03-12T20:59:53.759+01:00Stitches, Sad and Happy<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, I know they're not quilting stitches</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but stitches they are .. lots of purls and knitting.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8552878274/" title="twin hats by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="twin hats" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8552878274_81e05dd606.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's the best project for picking up and putting down.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For taking back and forth to the NICU.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8552882962/" title="especially by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="especially" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8552882962_36c266184d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I whipped up these two little hats for Finn's first girlfriends </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- twins A & E are his roommates in the NICU -<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sweet little things.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Their parents are lovely ... it's been wonderful to find kindred spirits in the same boat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8551777845/" title="flower detail by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="flower detail" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8551777845_33785d0292.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We've met a few other parents, most have already "graduated" and moved into stage 2 of the NICU.<br />
<br />
But tonight my heart and soul are with the family of H.<br />
That is, after I dug it out of my throat ..<br />
it was a hard day in the NICU as I snuggled my lovely Finn<br />
while H's parents ushered in their family one at a time<br />
.. to say good bye..</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I don't know if she'll still be there when I visit tomorrow ...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've watched my little guy jump hurdles, lose a few grams,<br />
gain a few back but all the while thriving ... we are so lucky.<br />
<br />
We are so blessed.<br />
<br />
Today he is "30 weeks"<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8551782961/" title="knit baby by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="knit baby" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8369/8551782961_c5ab857397.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the hat I whipped up his first days in the NICU .. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
all the others I had knit "while waiting" were much too big ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8552884814/" title="sleeping sound by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="sleeping sound" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8381/8552884814_9947b92de7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course I like him best without his hat .. that hair is so darn adorable!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8552883356/" title="fuzzy baby chicken hair by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="fuzzy baby chicken hair" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8552883356_8b492a2105.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-65051427377567253852013-03-09T09:39:00.001+01:002013-03-09T09:39:13.589+01:00My Two Men<div style="text-align: center;">
Couldn't resist sharing this photo with you ... makes my heart melt and sing all at once.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's for these moments that I've waited a lifetime ...<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8540563157/" title="my two men by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="my two men" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8540563157_4989eec024.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course I promise to show you some patchwork soon ... and some knitting, if you don't mind.</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-78505364255575028222013-03-08T13:30:00.000+01:002013-03-08T13:30:32.819+01:00BlissI think this picture says it all ...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8538386803/" title="bliss by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8087/8538386803_fc6e35f31b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="bliss"></a>peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-84395968833842906302013-03-05T18:07:00.001+01:002013-03-05T18:23:47.913+01:00He's Here!<div style="text-align: center;">
Well ... I have to admit ... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... I've been holding out on you ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You might have guessed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... or maybe you sent me an email ...<br />
<br />
<i>in which case I always answered truthfully </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>all the while asking you to help keep our secret.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But now he's here and I'm positively bursting at the seams!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">FINN</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">was born at 2:51 am on </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">28 February 2013</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8526084501/" title="Finn by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Finn" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8509/8526084501_47aaee5b40.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
He was almost 12 weeks too early ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... but weighed 1305 grams / 2 pounds, 14 ounces at birth ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Finn is a whopping 39,5cm / 15-1/2" long<br />
and has the most amazing <i>long</i> fingers and really big feet</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Five minutes after birth his apgar score was 10 out of 10 and </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
he's been holding his own with no support, no oxygen needed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The last five days have been incredible. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course with any premie, there have been a few ups and downs, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but really mainly small little "hiccups" that we've been able to overcome with </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the help of the wonderful staff of doctors and nurses at UZ Gent.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is doing so well and we couldn't be more proud!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8530876061/" title="finn's train by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="finn's train" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8248/8530876061_a66fc8fb24.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-22757169256025556292012-10-31T13:06:00.000+01:002012-10-31T13:13:32.807+01:00Yes, we are alive *and* well ...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry it's been so quiet here ... and I know so many of you are new followers and probably wondering what the heck is going on.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well the simple truth is there's been a lot going on, too much really and I decided the only way for me to keep my head above water was to keep my head down and concentrate on my family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm sorry.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I know you all understand.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've missed you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've missed writing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've missed creating and sewing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But we are doing fine .. we're happy and healthy .. just taking one day at a time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of Saskia & Arne's godmothers did a photoshoot with us in September to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary (in August) and we finally had time to sit down and pic out our favorites. This is one of mine! </div>
<br />
How perfect is this?? And why didn't we do it sooner?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8141218053/" title="Sneaky ... by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="Sneaky ..." src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8047/8141218053_f3cf397d15_o.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been wanting to do anniversary pictures for years and we ( ahem, <i>I )</i> finally made it happen! There are more .. and I put a few on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/" target="_blank">flickr</a> today after editing them and playing around a bit for just a few minutes. Now we have to agree and decide which ones to frame ... or have printed on canvas. Hehe, it might take us another 15 years to agree on that!</div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also popping in to remind you there's still time to <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2012/10/charlottes-keeping-watch.html" target="_blank">enter the drawing for my giveaway</a> ... it ends tonight! Pop over here, become a follower (if you aren't already), print out the free pattern and leave a comment to be eligible to win a kit for my Charlotte's Keeping Watch block designed for the <a href="http://quiltinggallery.com/quilters-fun/autumn-block-party/" target="_blank">Glorious Autumn Block Party.</a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/colourinstitch/8080872066/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Glorious Autumn Block Party - Charlotte's Keeping Watch. 2012-10-12 by ColourinStitch, on Flickr"><img alt="Glorious Autumn Block Party - Charlotte's Keeping Watch. 2012-10-12" height="200" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8080872066_9fc4102242.jpg" width="192" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/piececorps/8095920243/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Once In A Blue Moon my Charlotte’s Keeping Watch block from Jovita Goldschmidt and Quilting Gallery Glorious Autumn Block Party 101612 by thePieceCorps, on Flickr"><img alt="Once In A Blue Moon my Charlotte’s Keeping Watch block from Jovita Goldschmidt and Quilting Gallery Glorious Autumn Block Party 101612" height="199" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8053/8095920243_78a16dfcc2_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<br />
Be sure to check out the blocks that have already been made too! Aren't they fantastic?<br />
<br />
I love how individual they are turning out! A plaid barn, a brick barn ... the possibilities are endless.<br />
<br />
<br />
There's another one <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/57553997@N04/8123177025/" target="blank">here</a> but I'm not able to post a picture. I love her web - she did it by machine!!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, Happy Sewing!<br />
I'll be back as soon as I can. xox</div>
</div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-76335329742229394092012-10-11T15:28:00.001+02:002012-10-11T15:57:53.886+02:00Charlotte's Keeping WatchI had so much fun designing this block for Quilting Gallery's Glorious Autumn Block Party! I have lots to tell and show you too ... about my design inspiration and how I made the block. BUT I am having terrible computer problems today. Good thing Charlotte is watching out for me cuz otherwise I'd have blown a gasket by now and thrown my computer out the window.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will be adding a complete tutorial (with pictures!) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and more info to this page so see you again soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In the meantime, without further ado ... I give you</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Charlotte's Keeping Watch</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/8076868066/" title="charlotte's web by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="charlotte's web" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8334/8076868066_4fa0efe75c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">psst ... be sure to keep reading there's a chance to win something at the end of this post!</span></div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.jovitaspatchwork.eu/Tutorials/Charlottes_Keeping_Watch.pdf" target="_blank">click here <img alt="charlotte's keeping watch" height="98" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8327/8076867244_0b3fd59e5d_t.jpg" width="100" /> to download</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.jovitaspatchwork.eu/Tutorials/Charlottes_Keeping_Watch.pdf" target="_blank">the free pattern for this block</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And be sure to stop by and check out the rest of </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">the fantastic Glorious Autumn blocks!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://quiltinggallery.com/quilters-fun/autumn-block-party/" target="blank"><img src="http://quiltinggallery.com/images/autumn-block-party-250.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA">I will be giving away 5 kits for the appliqué / embroidery portion of my
block.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"> (Winners will need to supply their own background and barn door – I used
cream and brown.) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA">To have a chance at winning one of the kits, be sure you are a follower of my blog </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA">and leave a
comment … telling me your favorite thing about Autumn. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: orange;">(Drawing will close October 31st at midnight ... eeeeek ... I hope you win!)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA">xox Jovita</span></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-38868399485363571162012-09-09T12:40:00.002+02:002012-09-09T12:40:44.663+02:009.9.99<div style="text-align: center;">
Thirteen years ago today <a href="http://jovitaspatchwork.blogspot.be/2008/07/my-dad-my-inspiration.html" target="_blank">my dad</a> left this place for greener pastures. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
While computer geeks around the world waited for potentially strange things to happen, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
my dad with his fantastic mathematical mind slipped away. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the 9th of September, 1999. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That he called for me in the hours before he went I know. That they never took him home in spite of his wishes still makes me a little mad. That he went so soon, too early, when he did, that will always hurt.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
But that he now grows a perpetual pea patch </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
where <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/sets/72157630262595642/with/7438317458/" target="_blank">my own two little peas</a> lie between the rows </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and nibble away to their hearts content </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... of this I have no doubt ...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My dad could grow the best peas </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... ever ... </div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/7961415830/" title="dad's peapatch by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="dad's peapatch" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8307/7961415830_29c50e0060.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I made this block for My "Jane" quilt yesterday all the while thinking about him.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
About the things he taught me and what he left behind. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A lot. AND Not much. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What struck me more than anything was how few personal belongings he had. I had never thought about it before. I have and cherish his last gardening hat. He'd had several. They were always straw when one wore out there would be another. I don't know who bought them. They almost always had a hole in the tip at the front where he would lift it repeatedly to wipe his brow. He wore two rings. A "ruby" ring that I coveted, but he made it clear to me that someone else was to get it. In the end it seemed that only I knew this so made his wishes known. I am consoled by having his wedding ring, I wear it almost every day.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
All day long I kept thinking, I wish I had a picture of his hands. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Axel says my hands look like his ...</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/7961482084/" title="my hands 9.9.99 by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="my hands 9.9.99" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/7961482084_dbf2490c68.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And if you're wondering about <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/7961416202/in/photostream" target="_blank">this picture of my hand</a> in my photostream,<br />
then please read <a href="http://momastery.com/blog/2012/09/08/jack/" target="_blank">this</a>. </div>
<br />
There are more blog posts waiting for final a edit ... yes, I still have to share pics of our anniversary weekend. But while my mind is full and my heart overflowing, my concentration is still suffering ... positively lacking as evidenced by the other Jane blocks I tried to make yesterday. You're sure to find booboos here, but I'd like to re-read my other posts before I hit that publish button.<br />
<br />
But I'm taking a technology break this weekend ... enjoying myself while Axel works. The weather is fantastic and I have a basket of handwork, tall glass of water and a ball for the dog at my side.<br />
<br /></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779415694072941622.post-27702412441794700462012-08-23T19:59:00.001+02:002012-08-23T20:16:24.643+02:00't lang leven :: "longevity"<div style="text-align: center;">
We went away last weekend. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was spontaneous. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To try to make a rather long story short. There's a TV programme here in Belgium "Met 4 in Bed" and the premise is that the owners of four B&B's visit each others properties, spend the night and then provide critique.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/7822454820/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="'t lang leven moestuin & guesthouse by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="'t lang leven moestuin & guesthouse" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8433/7822454820_e9b5e9b71f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;">our room was the window you see above the vegetable garden</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.langleven.be/" target="_blank">'t lang leven</a> </span>near Ichtegem (Belgium, of course) was featured the first week of August. We fell in love first with the owners, Annie & Luc, and then with their B&B as the week progressed. Their philosophy is simple "enjoy the peace and quiet." Before the program featuring their property was over I had dashed an email asking if the Moestuin "vegetable garden" room was available for the weekend of our anniversary. The next morning came the quick reply that indeed it was and we were booked in for two nights. Two nights, the two of us including breakfast ... for 105€ ... $132. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Simple. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Easy.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We set out Friday afternoon on nearly the hottest day of the year. On the way we dropped Whisper at the kennel we've used several times before but only after a few detours because this silly mom left her collar at home. I had her leash but no collar. Turns out the kennel has plenty to spare so no big deal but it did make us rather late.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wow, I can not say enough good things about this B&B. We were greeted warmly and offered a glass of chilled white wine with a splash of <i>homemade</i> cassis (a liquor made of red wine and black currants). We chatted for a while about a number of things before Annie showed us to our room. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Simple. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No TV, no radio. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perfect.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Annie bakes fresh bread daily, Luc is in charge of the bread rolls. Fresh fruit and jams come from their garden. Annie's herb garden is gorgeous and full of bees and butterflies of all kinds. Oh, and that vegetable garden - wow! Omelets from their chickens .. you're getting the picture, right?</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are just a few pictures we took in their lovely garden over the course of the weekend. There was an exhibition going on "<a href="http://www.ireneeduriez.be/Documents/Brochure.pdf" target="_blank">Art and Garden, Summer in Ichtegem</a>" (through August 27th, Fridays through Mondays from 2-6:30pm). The featured artist at <a href="http://www.langleven.be/" target="_blank">'t lang leven</a> is Goedele Soetewey, it is her calligraphy and stone carving you see in some of the photos.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/peawink/7845772452/" title="'t lang leven by Jovita's Patchwork Atelier, on Flickr"><img alt="'t lang leven" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8291/7845772452_d7998832e1.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822403570/">breakfast</a>, 2. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822424928/">barn buddies</a>, 3. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822452922/">mulberry bush</a>, 4. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822422750/">ginger</a>, 5. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822407242/">serra reflections</a>, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822404354/">milk & sugar</a>, 7. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822405294/">may the stars watch over you</a>, 8. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822424040/">poppy pods</a>, 9. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822407508/">scaredy cat</a>, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822408732/">echinacea</a>, 11. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822423690/">onion harvest</a>, 12. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822408342/">live your life</a>, 13. <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/9865910@N05/7822451912/">peaceful garden</a>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was wonderful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you Annie & Luc for the perfect location to mark our 15th wedding anniversary!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
We thoroughly enjoyed the peace and quiet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It will be repeated.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We will be back.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
...</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stop back by tomorrow to read more about our weekend adventures ...<br />
<br /></div>
peawinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17775307842178822859noreply@blogger.com1