What I did on vacation 2011

It all started with the packing. The most important pieces of luggage were the red and blue suitcases containing 8 quilt tops and backing to be quilted at Heart to Heart Quilters while my cousin and I took a class at Sisters Oregon and did lots of visiting.

This photo shows a plastic container full of books I wanted to give to Colleen but, alas, AMTRAK doesn't allow plastic containers so no books for Collen this trip.

The trip takes about 20 or so hours. I booked a sleeper so it was quite comfortable and the car attendent was attentive and friendly. The train was actually quite a bit ahead of schedule into Klamath Falls so as soon as I could get cell phone reception I texted Colleen and she jumped in her car to make the 20 minute drive to pick me up at the station. We both arrived about the same time. Aren't cell phones great!

Friday morning, July 1st., we made the short trip to Merrill to meet with the ladies at Hart to Hart Quilters. I had made arrangements several months in advance to bring my 8 quilt tops in so they were as anxious to meet me as I was them. There were lots of decisions to be made. Each top and backing had to be measured, patterns decided and thread choices for front and back. I decided to have 3 tops custom quilted and 5 with all over designs.

I am really impressed with the way they organize the jobs. Each quilt had it's on tub containing top, backing and thread along with a job order.

That is one of my finished quilts on the table. They have a nice setup for their business plus the location is right next door to a great quilt store, Tater Patch Quilts.

These are the 3 custom quilts I had them do. I am working on binding all 8 and will put labels on them as I finish each one. This is when I get to spend time with each of my 'babies' .

When I finish the Mariners Compass I promise to take a better photo and even get some close ups of the quilting to share with you. The Double Wedding Ring will be my first bias binding and curved edges, I'm looking forward to the challenge with some trepidation but then, that's what makes life interesting.

The Tennesse Waltz is completed and ready for a home.