Memorial Day

 

Memorial Day is a day celebrated in the US in honor and tribute to the soldiers who have lost their lives to serve and protect our country.

"I have never been able to think of the day as one of mourning; I have never quite been able to feel that half-masted flags were appropriate on Decoration Day.

I have rather felt that the flag should be at the peak, because those whose dying we commemorate rejoiced in seeing it where their valor placed it. We honor them in a joyous, thankful, triumphant commemoration of what they did. "

~Benjamin Harrison

 

In memory and honor of those who have fought and died to keep our country free.

May God continue to protect and bless the United States of America!

Wishing you a safe and Happy Memorial Day!

Scraps galore

I came across a blog post (and I'm sorry I can't remember who posted) sharing how she used photo boxes to store her scraps. I liked the idea, and having a couple of boxes I set about to tame to scraps.

Started with one of several baskets full of scraps.

And here they are, sorted into the photo and shoe boxes.

Much better!

I Get By...

 Recently I have been lamenting my lack of mojo with sewing and quilting. It has been a year since I last sat down at my machine. My blogging friend, Cheryl's Teapots2Quilting challenged me. She said if I start, she would start. 

So we have started!

Happy Quilting!

Spring Cleaning

 Finally regularly clean your machine. Sometimes we get in a hurry and forget that our machine has been a little work horse. It's a good habit to clean and check your machine after you have sewn a couple of projects. 

I use this kit that attaches to my vacuum cleaner. It has several different size attachments to get to all the places you need to clean out. 

Take the throat plate out, remove the bobbin, bobbin case and hook race (if you have one). Clean under the feed dogs and around the bobbin area with a small brush. 

Don't forget to add a drop of oil to the hook before returning it to the machine. Check your machines manual regarding any area that might need oiling. Using only a small drop for each spot. 

One final hint. Always unplug your machine when you finish for the day. If for some chance there is a power surge, your machine, especially ones with electronics, will fry.

A surge protector will help, but we had a TV fry from a surge, even with a protector. Unplugging only takes a minute, and can save you a headache and a bundle.

You can easily maintain your sewing machine by yourself, but it is good to have your dealer check it over every couple of years. Your machine is your best friend and will give you years of service if you take the time to care for it properly. 

At Lighthouse Point

 

At Lighthouse Point is the last book in the Three Sisters Island series. After reading Books 1 and 2, I was looking forward to reading Blain's story.

Youngest sister Blaine Grayson returns home to Three Sisters Island after being gone to Paris for two years. Having been trained at Le Cordon Bleu as a chef, she dreams of opening a restaurant on her return home to Three Sisters Island. But things go awry when she returns to find the kitchen she dreamed of has been remodeled by her non cooking sister.  She finds so many changes after being gone for so long, she starts to doubt if she was really supposed to come home.

The story was well written and the characters well developed. Dialogue brought you into the heart of each one, as they struggle to find their place in the family. From Dad Paul, to sisters Cam, Maddie and Blaine. There is also Granddad who shows up after being absent for many years. And the friend of Blaine's who has traveled with her from France.

At Lighthouse Point is a story about the many dynamics of family and how love and faith can lead to reconciliation. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Revell. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thread lightly

 

Thread. Does it really make a difference? When you are having problems with your sewing machine, the first thing to do is change the needle. If you are still experiencing problems, check your thread.

Today there are so many threads to choose from. And quality may make a difference. You may have a machine that is really picky, so finding the right thread is key.

There is polyester, cotton, dual duty, spun polyester, silk..... And within those are different manufacturers. Some have more stray fibers than others. Finding the right thread can save you time and money. 

It is also helpful the be sure to wind your bobbin correctly. Make sure there are no tails hanging from the bobbin when inserted into the case. It can cause the machine to jam and make the upper thread break. Always use a bobbin designed for your machine. Trying to use a generic bobbin can cause damage to the bobbin case.

Needle I say more?

 Another key to maintaining a good running machine is to change your needles. 

I have to admit, I am not very good at doing it. I often go for miles of sewing before I change a needle. It is usually because I just plain forget! But having a proper needle for the type of fabric you are using is important. When the needle is compatible with your fabric and thread, your machine sews smoothly. Having the wrong needle will force the thread through the fabric instead of gliding cleanly through the needle hole. It may cause the thread to break. 

A sharp needle is the best choice when sewing natural woven fabrics. A universal needle has a slight ballpoint and was developed for synthetic polyester fibers.