a blogging break

Life has been more than busy lately. It's been a bit of a crazy year at home and work, and I have been feeling increasingly overwhelmed and drained. The stuff I normally turn to for stress relief, like blogging and crafting, haven't seemed as fun, and sometimes have even felt like another chore to deal with.

Signal received- time for a break.

I made the decision a few weeks ago, during a particularly stressful week at home and work, that I was just going to STOP. Could I really do that? Give STORE BOUGHT Christmas gifts?!? BUY a platter of dainties for Christmas? The concept was so liberating. For the last couple weekends I have spent my energy going out and reconnecting with friends, spending quality time with my kids, enjoying an extra glass of wine, making snowmen instead of making supper, watching some t.v. (while not simultaneously stitching). I have enjoyed some good belly laughs, and it made me realize how long it has been since I have felt REALLY GOOD. I miss that Me, and I am hoping to spend more time with Her in the coming weeks. I am on the right track!


I also want to be sure to really soak in the holidays this year with my kids and husband (aren't they cute? These pictures were taken by the talented May Arason-Li). My kids are at that perfect age, where everything is so magical, and I don't want to miss a second because I was holed away in my craft room sewing.

So, I am shutting things down for a bit! Only craft when the fever strikes, and not because of any feeling of obligation. I plan to limit my computer time as well, but I promise to pop in from time to time to say hello and to check in on all my crafty muses :)

Happy holidays, everyone! Hope you live it up! See you in the New Year!


And if you have a minute, this video by a talented local Winnipeg high school student is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit :) Shot all around my beautiful city!

Drunkard's Path QAL: Winners!

Thanks again to everyone who braved the curves and participated in our quilt along, and to those of you who couldn't participate but who cheered us on! It was my first time piecing curves as well, usually I have done them with applique in the past, and I have to say that this quilt was certainly the cure for curvitis! Despite the learning "curve" (hahaha!), it was a fun block to do and with its versatility I know I will be back for more. If you haven't done so already, you can go peruse the finished quilt tops here.

Now it is time to announce our prize winners! Thanks to our sponsors for their donations :)

The fat quarter bundle of Tula Pink's Prince Charming fabric donated by The Fabric Shoppe goes to:

B. Yazoo!



The $40 gift certificate courtesy of Fresh Squeezed Fabrics goes to:


Beth at Sewing for Sanity!

Congratulations, Ladies! We will be in touch to get you your prizes :)

Hmmmmm.....

I am thinking of using this:



for this:

Eventually.

What do you think? Anything I should remove/add?