Friday, August 22, 2008

A Surprise in the Mail!

How beautiful a day can be
When kindness touches it! ~ George Elliston

Look at the cute note cards I received in the mail this week from my sister-in-law Sue, who lives in Wisconsin. She says she thought of me as soon as she saw the quilt designs. Aren't they darling? They're embossed so you can feel the quilted pattern of each design. Thank you, Sue!

The cards above are the traditional double-wedding ring pattern (click on any photo for a closer view.) Both sets of cards have pretty matching envelopes.

This pack is based on quilted hexagons...
They look a little like a honeycomb, don't you think? Obviously the designer thought so, too because there is the cutest little embossed bee right in the center...

I have to admit to being partial to the hexagon cards, simply because of the fall colors. Plus it's a design I particularly like. Sue doesn’t know how timely her gift is: look at one of the projects I'm currently working on...

These are little hexagon flowers I've been creating for months now, made with cheery Mary Engelbreit fabrics. My photo doesn't do it justice: the colors are vibrant and bright. This project will travel with me to Alaska, since it's very portable and can be worked on in the car, in the cabin, or on a kayak.

Ok, maybe not a kayak - but you get my point!

* * * * *

Speaking of Alaska... this is our last weekend before our trip. We leave a week from this Sunday! Boy, that's hard to believe: where has this year gone? I made all the arrangements back in February and March, when August seemed so far away.

I'm actually considering trying kayaking while we're in Homer. Have any of you done it? I'm rather nervous at the idea because, you see - ahem - I don't swim. But I think it would be a great way to see wildlife and to have some beautiful, quiet time in nature. We're considering using an outfitter who would send a guide, and he/she could be in my kayak to keep me from drowning upright.

We have a lot to do this weekend, to get things ready around here so we can be gone for two weeks. We went through all the reservations last night, and our itinerary day-by-day so we could be sure everything is in place. I made a to-do list (which is very short, thank goodness) and Hubby made a packing reminder list, so we don't forget anything. Nine days and counting!

Have a great weekend!


Until next time...

16 comments:

jovaliquilts said...

Surprise gifts are the best! How sweet of your sister-in-law to think of you. I haven't been in a kyack, but my husband and daughter went and they both wore life jackets. That should help! I don't know if anyone can always keep the boat upright, but someone can help you if it tips! The people you rent from will probably tell you if it's a bad idea for a non swimmer.

Kathy said...

Love the cards!
But you are giving me an anxiety attack talking about kayaking when you don't swim! I don't swim either and the very thought of putting myself in that position just makes me freak! lol!
I do have a brother who doesn't swim and routinely water skis so I guess it's not unheard of. Gotta go wash my sweaty palms now!

Deborah said...

The note cards are lovely. What a wonderful sis-in-law! The quilt you are working on is even better.

I'm with Kathy, we are both having an anxiety attack over you kayaking. Be sure to keep that life jacket pulled nice and snug.

carla said...

surprises like that are so great. I was part of a group once where we had secret blog pals (watch fer something similar coming up at the Miz) and I LOVED getting my letters/packages.
such a day brightener.

cant believe alaska is so soon!

Miz.

Nonnas News said...

What a sweet surprise! She knew you would just love those!! They are really pretty!

Have a great weekend!

Susie said...

Hi Patti.
Love those cute quilt cards. What a thoughtful SIL you have! We've been to AK 3 times, and have done all sorts of excursions, but have not kayaked. I know you'll have a wonderful time. The scenery is breathtaking! We can't wait to go back!
xo

Kelli said...

What beautiful cards and your quilt pieces are gorgeous! I love ME's artwork and fabric!
~Kelli

jillytacy said...

That was a nice surprise! Your hexagon flowers are so cute! I love the fabric choices!
I hope you have a fabulous time in Alaska! I can't wait to see the pictures! I've been kayaking several times and haven't tipped over. Of course it was calm water not rough water but I agree with Cheri. If you wear a life jacket you should be fine. Have a great time...I can't wait to hear about your adventures!!!

nancygrayce said...

What sweet cards! Your quilt is going to be gorgeous. I don't quilt but I love quilts!

JC said...

Ah your card are so cute. You got mail so you can mail. Super!! Did you send them so you will send her cards for Alaska or because they are quilt designs or because she love yous. Just take your pick. HA!

I'm looking forward to hearing all about Alaska. I don't swim either but you will have a life vest won't you??? Grace and blessings to you.

JC said...

Sorry for the typo's above I must be getting really tired. JC

grammy said...

Go for it. You can wear a vest and be fine. The view will be worth it. Have a great trip. Sounds more exciting than our 10 day camping trip. I am still looking forward to it though. Sometimes doing nothing is good.

Needled Mom said...

What darling note cards. I love the texture of them. Are you actually going to use them????

If you do not swim I would not suggest that you try a kayak. They are not the most stable vessel and one is almost certain to take a dunk. Trust me as I have done it too many times to count.

I know it will be a busy week for you. Call me if there is anything I can do to help out this week or while you are gone.

See you when you get back. Hugs.

nancygrayce said...

Oh, we used to have a 100+ lab. Sam, he was a wonderful dog. Gone now.....we have 2 toy poodles. From one extreme to the other. My husband always says "why two?" Well, that's easy, they keep each other company when I'm not there!

Karen said...

Hi Pattie ~ My memory served me well.... it seemed like it was time for your trip. So, I stopped by to tell you goodbye and have a wonderful and safe trip.

The notecards are really pretty! Your SIL got you just the perfect thing!

Look forward to your Alaska pictures!

Karen

Karen Roper said...

I love, love, love your blog. The title is the bestest. :) Thanks for stopping by my pages by way of nonna.

May I add you to my blog friendy list. Us perimenopausal, fuzzzy headed, double-chinned ladies got to stick together ya know! ;-)