lozenges + ear infections = random

I finished up that lozenge pillow cover last week and shipped it off just in time for my sister in Phoenix to get it for her birthday. I didn't have time to take decent photos so apologies in advance...

I used Lynne's lozenge EPP templates (found here) and omitted the squares. Instead I made a background panel from two layers of Moda quilting muslin with some batting in between, quilted with not-so-straight lines using a walking foot. (I did the same for the two back panels). I then hand appliquéd the patchwork to the panel.

I was kind of on a roll so I went ahead and hand quilted in the lozenges too, just to give it that extra something (and some additional stability in case my appliqué skills don't hold up). Hand quilting this small project was fun, but it gave my fingers a workout!

I didn't get to launder it (so it would get all crinkled) and have a lengthy photo shoot like I would have wanted... I  finished it on my lunch break and ran off to the post office after snapping a few crappy shots on the front porch swing.

On another note, I've been struggling with respiratory infections on and off (but mostly on) since the end of October. But I draw the line at ear infections and finally hit up the doctor yesterday. He prescribed antibiotics as expected, but he also insisted I start using a neti pot.

Mind = blown. Have you ever tried one of these?! I'd heard of it before because my old roommate had one, but never saw him use it and he never described the process. If you have no idea what I'm talking about go hit up google. It'll blow your mind too! I've used it a couple times now and I'm in love.

And since that last little tid bit is just tad on the random side, I think I'll link this post up with Cindy's Really Random Thursday over at Live a Colorful Life. (I can't get over the fabric covered car from last week. Mind = blown!)

chirp chirp chirp + birthdays

...crickets...
Poor, neglected blog!

Today is my 27th birthday. I'm officially in my late twenties, yuck! At least this year I have a boy to spoil me. Jon picked up on the hints I dropped about a rotary cutter I wanted as a replacement for one that mysteriously went missing. I described it as having a safety resembling the trigger on a gun. He nailed it!

My mom's birthday was on New Years Day and I finally got to gift her the quilt I promised her forever and ever ago. Only a sneak peak for now, since it deserves a true reveal post of it's own.

Oh, and check out the wrap job Jon did on that rotary cutter. It was delightfully crafty and that bow is now pinned to the bulletin board in my sewing room. He's a keeper.

I just wanted to check in and announce that I am in fact, still alive.
Hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and hopefully I'll get back in the blogging mood now that the holiday season is over :D