Do The Irish Quilt?

I am sure the Irish quilt but I have yet to see a quilt store.  There are plenty of sweater shops and here and there a wool shop but no fabric shops, yet.  If there is one to be found, I'm sure my quilty sense will take me there.  I can't imagine there would be any bargains since most European quilters seems to stock up on fabric stash when they are in the U.S.  

Now there are plenty of "patterns" everywhere that could easily be interpreted in quilt design.  Here are a few: 

This just screams "quilt"

Perhaps a sampler quilt?

La Breithe Shona Duit......

.......to me.  That would be "Happy Birthday" in Gaelic.  Celebrating in Kilkenny, Ireland.  What is not to love about celebrating your birthday in Ireland.  Today has been gloriously green and spectacularly sunny.  I saw the  Blarney Castle but chose not to join the one hour line to kiss the stone.  I already have the gift of gab.  Here is a typical west coast Irish view from the Ring of Kerry.  Everything here is so very, very Irish...........

Where Might I Be?

We are off on more adventures in Europe.  This picture is meant to give you a hint as to where we are. 

Hint:  This "castle" was built in the late 19th century. 

Other hints: 

• Betty Windsor was in town during our first two days. 
• Oatmeal is known as porridge.  The best brand is Flavahans. 
• Barack Obama will be visiting next week. 
• On any given day there can be sunshine, wind, and rain which keeps everything green. 
• An island off the coast of this country is known for its sweaters.

Here a baa.  There a baa.  Everywhere a baa, baa.

If you have guessed Ireland, you are right on.  We're on day 4 of a two week trip.  It is gloriously green.  The people are friendly and helpful.  Having a wonderful time.  Did you know that there are more people of Irish descent living in the USA than in Ireland?

And All The Way From Canada Came.........

....this wonderful package of goodies!

A big quilty hug and Thank You to Madamme Samm from Stash Manicure.  I am going to have so much fun with all my new patterns, books, threads and fabric.

Last night two special little girls had a sleep-over.  Their mom was sick with a sinus infection and she really needed the rest time.  We ate out for dinner, watched a movie and worked on projects.  Here is one: 

The Artist busy at work decorating a little fabric bag.

  

 

 

REFLECTIONS
Tomorrow is Mother's Day.  I  reflect upon motherhood in many different aspects of my life.  There is, of course, my own mother, Ruth.  I was the first of her four children.  Then there are the other relatives and friends who were mothers and role-models for me as I was growing up.  I was blessed with a dear Mother-In-Law, Jean, who became an inspiration and a friend.  Today I am Mother-In-Law to Lissa who continues to bless my life with her enthusiasm and spirit. Of course, I, too, am a mother and a grand-mother.  A mother to Jon and Stephen.  Stephen has passed on from this earth to his home in heaven. Jon lives near-by and makes sure I get many opportunities with our darling grand-daughters.  Mother's Day brings a few tears to my eye....tears of sadness because I miss Stephen, tears of happiness for all the mother blessings that have been a part of my life. 

 May everyone who reads this be blessed every day.  Thank you to all the mother's who have raised us, believed in us, supported us, taught us, and loved us.  Happy Mother's Day and Everyday!

I Am A Winner!

I was notified this weekend that I won the April End-of-The-Month All Star Giveaway on the Stash Manicure Blog.  I am so excited.  Arrangements have been made with Madamme Samm for delivery and sometime in the next two weeks, I'll post a picture of my new goodies.  

My personal philosophy about blogging is that it is an opportunity to reflect and share a little of yourself with the world.  I also enjoy reading blogs.  My bookmarked blogs are written by friends and quilters.  I love the opportunities to comment and share in people's accomplishments.  I also try to send a note when someone puts out a concern or prayer request.  I believe we are all part of the village supporting one another.  I hope if you are reading this, you do to. 

Thank you Madamme Samm for inserting some special joy into what was already a pretty good weekend.