Where is the summer going? It seems like only yesterday I was brushing the snow off of my newly sprouting garden, and all of a sudden, my flowers are bursting with color and its ninety degrees!
Even with all of my dead-heading and weeding, a new book in the works, and preparing artwork for a new fabric line for Henry Glass called “Along the Fence”, I’ve managed to find a little time to play. July is the month that I traditionally reserve for vacation with my family, and we spent several beautiful days on the Oregon coast earlier this month. Enjoying the sunsets, smelling the sea air, and trying not to be tackled by your children while wiggling your toes in the surf is extremely therapeutic, and I highly recommend a trip to this beautiful part of the country if you’re ever able. As you can see by the picture, I was only semi-successful in the “not being tackled” plan.
After returning home, I was invited to be the guest of honor at a quilting social hosted by a local quilt guild here in Idaho called “Behind the Scenes”. What better way to spend a summer morning than sharing the company of fellow quilters and looking at vintage quilts hanging in the sunshine? The nicest surprise, though, was seeing a hand-quilted version of my Country Haven quilt hanging alongside the antique quilts that were on display. 
Members of this guild worked together to piece, appliqué, and hand-quilt this project made entirely from my Country Haven line of fabrics, and for every hour of time spent on its construction, each member received a ticket for a chance to win it in a drawing. I was given the honor of scooping up the winning ticket, and one lucky member went home very happy!
A second and equally nice surprise was seeing the “thank you” quilt made up in my Country Haven collection that was stitched by guild members and gifted to the hostess of the social – there is simply not a nicer, more generous group of people than quilters, and I feel so fortunate to spend so much of my time in their company.Here’s hoping that even in the midst of this busy time of year, you find a few moments to make a quilt of your own and spend a little time in the company of good friends.
Kim ~
For more information on the designer check out her website: http://www.kimdiehl.com/
