QUILTER'S TRAVELERS "CHECK-LIST"

Hey Quilter's....first of all "Happy Thanksgiving"...we celebrated earlier this week with kids/grandson Davin so they could be at home enjoying their family time. It's a little "quiet" around here, which is hard on this girl, but thankful for the blessings in our life. This post was inspired by my daughter, Nichole, who's always been my inspiration in so many aspects of my life. I'm truly "thankful" to have her as a daughter but a wonderful "side-kick" as well. Yes...when I need it most....she gives me a "swift-kick" of reality. It's always great to have someone smarter then you to keep ya in line.
Here's the funny....I was at her house and making her "grocery list", thinking I was being smart, helpful, you know the drill....writing on a piece of paper the things you need at a grocery store. Well, here she comes and say's "mom, what are you doing?" ME..."SAVING YOU TIME AND MAKING YOUR GROCERY LIST FOR YOU". Nichole laughed. Mom...seriously, this is what I do...she proceeds to get her "LAMINATED GROCERY CHECK-LIST"...What! Who does that! Obviously my intelligent daughter! She explains...I have it all categorized by my pantry goods, everyday staples, frozen foods, produce, dairy, health items, personal items etc. I just use a wipe off marker and check what I need. So much easier, plus saving money by not buying things I don't need and I'm not wasting paper. O.K....yes, I was standing with amazement on my face. First, I was so proud of her, that I created that beautiful, intelligent person standing before me. But then reality sunk in...WHAT!!!
  Mom, really you need to do this, as she's laughing. So I thought, of the "quilter's travelers check-list". So many quilter's travel and what better way then to follow her tip. I used to travel designing homes when the economy was great, and this would have made my traveling days easier.
  So here's my thought....laminate your list by your basic needs that you take with you always. Then have a space at end of paper that you can write in periodically to personalize each trip. Depending on your circumstance you may not be going to the same place, your needs will be different.
  Categorize to your project needs at that time as well. I know that might sound minimal but sometimes you might be in an area where you just can't run and grab a notion or two.
  If you travel with your machine...have extra needles, bobbins, etc. As a designer, I like to have at least 5 different colors of thread ranging from light to dark for that unexpected moment.
  MY MUST...always pack an extension cord so you can sew in the spot you are comfortable with for lighting etc. at table in room (if forget, again the counter help can supply one or maintenance crew)
   And I always "bubble wrap" my rulers and store them in between my clothing.
 * All else fails...don't get discouraged, sometimes we tend to get more creative when our options are limited.
HOTEL TIPS:...most of the time you will always have an iron...if not, ask or use your built-in (finger press)
  Table in room (sewing table)
   Circle template...use personal items to trace with for shapes, etc
   Remove fabric hairs...ask counter...they always have one for the cleaning lady!.
Hope some of these tips make your traveling day's a little easier.

"Blessed Quilting from our Home to Yours",
  Cat
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"Lovin' Fall"

Hey quilters....this is my favorite time of year...I have to say the smell of pine trees, leaves falling and changing colors, just gets me in the holiday spirit. We are getting ready for our 2015 Pattern Line to launch soon. I'm super excited to share that each design will showcase a fast/easy technique that will amaze you. I for one don't have enough time in the day and I'm sure you're the same. Keep everyone updated when they get launched. Also,

 I've recently posted some healthy and easy "treats" on my cooking blog (address below). These recipes are definitely a crowd pleasure and great to take to a holiday festivity. If you are quilting....enjoy the smell while they are baking....wonderful! Enjoy this time of year with your family and friends.
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Blessed Quilting from our Home to Yours!
www.cookinganddecorwithcat.blogspot.com