Barn Quilt Class

I took my first barn quilt class today at the Grain Bin Market & Bakery.  This painted quilt block took me about six hours to draw the pattern and then paint.  I found this quilt pattern online and fell in love with it right away.

There's actually a lot involved in making a barn quilt.  You need to measure your prepared wooden block and measure out your quilt pattern.  Honestly, that took me like 2 hours!  As you can see, I did have some help.  Once you have your pattern drawn, then you need to tape off the areas that you want to paint.  You do this process in sections of colors.  This takes a long time, but it pays off in the end.  Oh, and a hair dryer does come in handy.

The class I took provided the primed wood block, paint choices and a delicious lunch.  Dawn, the owner, made a wonderful chicken salad, homemade rolls, fresh fruit and even sliced avocados.....thank you Dawn!

We started working around 10:30 am and this is me finishing my quilt block around 4:45 pm.  Despite a muscle pull in my back from yesterday, I made it through the day standing most of the day.  Thank heavens for Tylenol! 

I would probably paint another barn quilt as a gift for someone, but I need to figure out an easier way to transfer the quilt pattern to the wooden block.  Guess it's time to research the Internet and request some books. 

Wine Tasting Gala

Our local health care facility had their third annual wine tasting gala tonight to raise funds for their transportation service fund.  Since I donated several of my Arbonne body care products for the silent auction, I received two free tickets to attend.  So, Bike man graciously agreed to go with me tonight. 

The facility was decorated with lots of gold and glitter!

The hallways near the activity room and the entrance of the health care facility were tastefully decorated.  Lots of people enjoying a glass of wine and conversations.

Walked through the silent auction room.  Here's a wine sign on recycled barn wood that was made by my friends/neighbors Jill and Mike Chandler.  Their business, Once Abarn A Time, can be found on Etsy or Facebook.

Here's a beautiful quilt made by a local woman from the Colfax, Wisconsin area.

Actually there were about 6 quilts for the silent auction.  I think the quilts were the best part of the silent auction!  Did I bid on anything tonight?  Nope.....trying to downsize our belongings if you know what I mean.

Saw some of my former library patrons tonight....they a few had questions for me, of course.  Do you have a different job?  Are you part of the hiring process for the new Director?  Are you going to be involved in the Colfax area?  No, no and no!!!!!!!  At some point I know the questions will stop, but until now I'm just going to focus on starting a new chapter in my life.