Hopeful Homemaker

Red White and Blue Pinwheel Quilt

July 1, 2011 jennifer Quilting and Sewing

I really wanted to make a red and white quilt before the 4th of July but didn’t get farther than cutting the fabric before we left town. I did manage to get this pinwheel quilt top to the quilter in time to bring it with me. The binding is now finished and I’m loving my patriotic quilt!

It was so much fun to photograph this on the beach. It looked so pretty in the sand.

I pieced a strip of pinwheels for the back of the quilt and am pleased with the results.

After auditioning several binding options I settled on the dark blue print from the Rural Jardin collection by French General for Moda. I love the way the deep blue looks against the cream sashing.

Hooray for a project finished, and three cheers for the red, white and blue!

Jennifer

3 comments quilting

Celebrate the 4th: Be Thoughtful

July 1, 2011 jennifer 4th of July, Entertaining, Pretty Packages

Are you getting together with family or friends for your 4th of July celebration? If you’re going somewhere as a guest, consider taking along a small gift for your hostess. If you’re the one hosting you could send your guests home with something to remember the day.

What about a box of sparklers? Tied with a ribbon and a little tag you’ve got a quick and easy token of appreciation.

You could also consider sharing something homemade. I filled a pint size mason jar with good water for a refreshing drink. These would be a fun thing to give your guests when they get in their hot car to head home, or for your hostess to enjoy when she’s finally able to sit down and relax at day’s end.

A bouquet of flags would also be pretty with or without flowers. It would be useful and a great reminder of the day you’re celebrating.

These are just a few little ideas to spark your creativity when you either head out the door or open your door in welcome. I’d love to hear what you do!

**If you’re looking for an easy 4th of July activity for the weekend, check back tomorrow morning for a pdf version of my annual trivia!
Hopeful Homemaker

Strawberry Watermelon Smoothies

June 30, 2011 jennifer Beverages

A friend shared this recipe a few weeks ago and I can’t count how often we’ve made these smoothies since. They’re easy to make and so refreshing!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups ice cubes 2 cups chopped watermelon 1 pint strawberries 1/3 cup sugar juice of half a lemon 1 cup water Place ingredients in blender and mix until smooth. My son started adding 1 tablespoon lavender to the mix as well and it’s actually quite good.

Served in my favorite juice glasses for the 4th of July makes them even better. (Glasses from IKEA on clearance last year) I hope you’ll try these refreshing summer smoothies!

Jennifer