HEART TO HEART SWAP BLOCKS

These are my swap blocks for the DJ Alternate list H2H Swap, which I worked on at the DJ Retreat in Shipshe last week. I made them using Fairy Frost, which I thought would be so appropriate for a heart swap. We are each using any heart pattern, applique, pieced, whatever, embellished or Plain Janes, in 6" blocks. It should make into a wonderful quilt.

AMISH BUGGY

This horse & buggy is hitched up to the hitching post awaiting its passengers, who are doing errands in town. I took this picture for the contrast and blend of cultures. Notice the very modern electric wires in the background, the Wells Fargo stage coach on the sign, and the transportation for a traditional Amish family. This is a very common site in Shipshewana. I loved the clip-clop of the horses.

Now it's back home to reality. But, the Dear Jane retreat was wonderful.

VAL & I MEET IN SHIPSHE

I met Val, from my SBS swap group, today at the DJ Shipshe retreat. It was so fun to finally meet in person!

DEAR JANE RETREAT IN SHIPSHEWANA

The 10th DJ Retreat in Shipshewana, IN, has been in full-motion for over 24 hours now. I have met so many wonderful quilters, and am having so much fun (yes, and doing a little quilting too). It is super to be able to put faces with the names of these on-line quilting friends. What a treat!

SNOW!!!

SNOW hit southwest Michigan today! My little Maxwell Webster is very curious about it, since he mainly lives in Florida. Murphy May had the good sense to stay indoors as much as possible.

The snow storm is beautiful. We have about double the amount in the photos now, and it is expected to continue on into the night.

As long as I can get out for my Dear Jane Retreat in Shipshewana on Wednesday, I'm fine with it. So pretty, and so Dr. Zhiavago'ish.

THE GIRLS ON THEIR WAY OUT OF PARADISE

The Girls stopped to pose for one last photo in Paradise, before jumping into their cozy envelope and heading off to Susan's for the holidays.

THE GIRLS HANGING OUT IN THE SNOW

The Girls enjoyed their first real snowstorm in Paradise, MI.

THE GIRLS AT LAKE SUPERIOR

In the UP, The Girls saw Lake Superior, the largest fresh-water lake in the world, from Whitefish Point in Paradise. Notice the freighter in the background, and Canada is in the very back.

THE GIRLS AT THE MACKINAC BRIDGE

The Girls headed to the UP with us, but paused to take this photo at the Mackinac Bridge. Lake Michigan is to left of the bridge, and Lake Huron is to the right.