Yesterday, my internet friend, Vicki, and I had plans to meet at the Asheville Quilt show. Unfortunately, hurricane Helene had other ideas. We got notice that morning that the show was canceled for the day, so we decided to meet for just a bit at a local breakfast spot. But it was closed when we got there! We were able to sit on a covered porch while it rained for a half hour, then they had to get on the road home to stay ahead of the worst of the wind and rain that was coming. I was happy we were able to connect for that little bit, as I had made her a surprise gift, and I was so excited to give it to her. I know she loves vultures, and I when I found this embroidery design online, so I had to get it and stitch it out. It came out so good! Now, what to do with it?
Flying geese, or should we call them flying vultures! I know she enjoys hand dyed fabrics (and does fabulous hand dyes herself), and I just happened to have some in graded colors in a close match to the pink in the embroidery. I made them using the No-Waste Flying Geese method.
I love using the Wing Clipper tool (Fat Quarter Shop link) to trim them up. So easy! Just put the point in the appropriate x, then make sure the seams cross the corners of the line for the size you are making. In this case, 2-1/2 x 4-1/2.
Then flip it around, find the appropriate x for the point facing downward, and zip off the excess with your rotary cutter.
I made 16, and arranged them in four sets of dark to light. You may recognize this picture as my secret project, LOL!! Since she reads my blog, I couldn’t do this post until after I saw her.
Then I sewed the sets together.
I added a thin black border around the center, then put the flying geese and cornerstones in a black fabric with gold accents around the edge.
The quilting began with the center section. I did a meandering stipple around the embroidery to make it puff a bit.
Then I put straight echo lines in the flying geese. I didn’t really mark these, I just used the ruler to keep them straight.
Switching to black thread on top, I put the same triangle lines in the cornerstones. The black inner border got ribbon candy in black thread.
I was happy that I got the balance right, so the black top thread doesn’t show on the back.
And there it is. You can see here that I put the geese in different directions so the colors are dark in two corners fading to light in the other two corners. I liked the look of this, rather than having them go around the quilt clockwise or counterclockwise.
I made a special label for the back and wrapped it up to give to her yesterday. She was delighted with it!
I know I look goofy (that’s me on the left), but I was so happy that she liked it. I think she was surprised that I remembered her love of vultures, and she said it was great to add to her collection of vulture art. I hope she and her mom and cousin come back with a bit more time next time. I would love to show them our beautiful part of the world, go apple picking, see some waterfalls, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and more.
Do you like surprises?
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I love surprises, and in recent years have been ordering mystery boxes for myself. So, it was great fun to find Sulky Threads is offering their Cozy and Comfy Mystery Box! This is a great deal! Included are 15 full-size items – from sewing supplies to adorable gift items – plus two free patterns & a free fall-themed embroidery design!). When you open your box, you’ll see a postcard inside that directs you to the inspiration page and list of box items to know how to use your products and create with confidence. I ordered mine and cannot wait to see what is in it.
If you love mystery boxes, Fat Quarter Shop is still taking reservations for its Spooky Box 2024 Limited Edition. Includes Halloween-themed fabrics, notions and a Fat Quarter Shop quilt pattern, plus exclusives that can only be found in this box. Reserve now at special price before it spirits away forever!
From My Carolina Home 
I am absolutely sure she was over the moon with her surprise. It’s darling and so personal. So glad you could meet.
Actually, the first thing I thought of this morning was “I need to ask Carole if she’s in the path of the storm,” but I guess you answered that. I hope you stay safe, keep power and can just hunker down and have a stitching time!
I got a text Friday morning from Carole, no power, trees down, etc. Generator on. The post was written and scheduled the night before. Waiting to hear from her today (Sat 9/28)
It is fun to surprise someone with something that will appeal to them. It is heartwarming and fun planning and making a gift with the recipient in mind! Your quilting design choices complement the top so well! Thanks for sharing!
Hurricane Helene is raising havoc! Stay safe!
Jo Anne
I’m glad the two of you were able to meet despite the weather. Fun to see the photo of the two of you. Your quilt made for Vicki is very cool!
I’m glad you’re ok from the storm. That’s a lovely gift for your friend. I can’t say that I’ve ever met anyone else who loves vultures!! She must be special indeed!!
HELLO all – Carole is impacted by Hurricane Helene – NO POWER – NO INTERNET – TREES DOWN in her yard, on her fence, garage leaking. She can NOT comment or reply as normal. She texted me to ask that I post on today’s blog. As you can imagine, her “NORMAL” schedule is interrupted. They are safe, at the top of her mountain. Keep all those in the path of Helene in your thoughts and prayers.
I do hope the storm hasn’t been too bad for you..Your friend was surprised and that just adds to the fun.
Sending positive thoughts and prayers to Carole and all of those in the path of Hurricane Helene. Stay safe.
So glad you were able to get together in spite of the weather. And I do hope you are safe during the storm. My BIL weathered it fine in FL, but he is in not right on the coast and up a little higher…good planning on their part. I love the special little quilt you made for Vicki – perfect. I am sure she will treasure it and as she does your friendship.
Thanks to Stitching Grandma for letting us know the weather situation in North Carolina. I hope the storm moves on quickly & power is restored.
You are welcome Julie
I can’t tell you how much I love my little quilt! I will have it hung soon so I can see it every day. Thank you so much! Also glad your friend posted that you are OK. I texted you and my cousin but figured that the internet was out with everything else.
Carole, I know there is devastation near you. I hope you are safe!
Carole, praying for you and your community~~let everyone know if there is something we can do to help your community.
SUNDAY Sept 29 – I had a text early morning (5:41 am) from Carole – “cell service was out until just now, No power anywhere, no stores open, no gas. Devasting damage. I have a post scheduled for Tuesday, but it doesn’t mean we are out of trouble. Our generator just went out 10 minutes ago, cannot get on the internet. “. Please understand that when her post goes live on Tuesday, it is because it is scheduled. Quite often we bloggers will write 2 or 3 posts in a row, and schedule when they go “LIVE”. Please continue to keep everyone in the Western NC area, and all those facing challenges due to Hurricane Helene in your thoughts, heart and prayers. Stitching Grandma (Mary Deeter)
More updates from Carole around NOON on Sunday, 9/29/24. Please come over to the Friends of From My Carolina Home Facebook group where I will post as I get the updates. https://www.facebook.com/groups/591941124470566
Answer the screening questions and either I or Pat will approve you.
I will stick to posting just on the Facebook post as these comments may not be seen.
More updates from Carole around NOON on Sunday, 9/29/24. Please come over to the Friends of From My Carolina Home Facebook group where I will post as I get the updates. https://www.facebook.com/groups/591941124470566
Answer the screening questions and either I or Pat will approve you.
I will stick to posting just on the Facebook post as these comments may not be seen.
Sending positive energy your way ❤️
glad you and Vicki got to meet – she is an internet friend of mine too for many years
Love the vulture! I haven’t seen one in a while, but I have tennis court across the street and then the woods. The Eagle sits on the top of the fence waiting for “lunch” in the field, then swoops gracefully down into the field. There are vultures deeper in the woods, but we seldom see them. Can I say “”lovely” work? Beautiful embroidery.