We live on the West side of US19 which makes it an evacuation zone. We've had mandatory evacuation once in almost 20 years and we went to DD's house which is 10 miles from us inland. She ended up having more damage than we did during that time. Water was 'driven' through their brick house. Between her MIL, who was also there, and me, we were spinning water out of towels for hours. Now, they spray the brick every summer with something that waterproofs it. Another time we had a big tree come down during the storm and we lost electricity so had to leave for about 4 days. We'd come back during the day and run the generator for the freezer and fridge. (I don't like doing those sandwiches either.)

Beverly, I'm sorry about your friend. You mentioned hot air balloon which reminded me I have a UFO with hot air balloon fabric that should be worked on.....so many UFOs but I've been working on them. Three done and 2 more almost done this year. Go, Rita!!! Sometimes and thought dives in and there it is! Can't wait to see what you've got going on. Do it, Bev! That fish fabric will be gone before you know it. Don't forget, National Quilting Day is March 17th this year. I usually work on a special project that day and this year I'm planning on using this pattern: http://swimbikequilt.com/2013/08/finished-quilts-star-bright-quilt.html .... but using purple for the background and maybe teal for the star. If I like how it looks, and it shouldn't be that difficult to put together, this pattern will be a go-to for a quick and easy when needed. Can you just imagine the various colors you could put together? And such a neat way to use up some of those bigger scraps of fabric. Happy quilting, everyone!

My goal for September is to just get through it. Have enjoyed being with family even after receiving more bad news. No sewing but maybe a big utility quilt repair is in my future.........maybe next week when everyone is at work/school. I bought some FQ yesterday and thought I'd just raw edge sew hearts or whatever over the places...seems to be the easiest I can think of for hand sewing. It has been used, that's for sure.....and that's what I want. I hope everyone's lives have settled down a bit and things are looking a bit better. How about some Homespun fun to help us smile........ http://www.jubileehomespun.com/pumpkin-coasters-quilted-homespun.html .......sorry, for some reason, this link doesn't work. correct one in message below Bev's post.

My goal this month was to finish a baby quilt for my new granddaughter. I chose to make a shabby chic French Roses quilt with soft sage green, coral, and muted yellow. I backed it with a coral flannel print and edged it with green. It was a new pattern to me so it took a bit of planning and trial by error before cutting into my fabric. I finished it up last week and was able to see Baby Layla wrapped in her new quilt. Next time I use this pattern there will be some adjustments to the whole process - but I'm pleased with the outcome of this first attempt.