Hustling and Bustling!

"Hustling and Bustling" are the words of this season I remember hearing as a child. That is exactly what everyone is doing!

Here at Seams Like Home we invite you to stop in and see the entry's in the "Dancing with the stars" contest. I have posted the photos but as we all know, photos never do the real thing justice. Voting is ongoing and will continue until the 19th of December. Winners will be announced Monday the 21st.

On Saturday December 19th, Seams Like Home is hosting our annual "End of the Year Inventory Reduction Sale". Sale is from 9am-2pm, all fabric cuts of one yard or more are 15% off. Also,15% off all kits and 10% off all other In-stock merchandise. A great time to treat yourself to that project you've been eyeing up.

We have new hours for the Winter Season. The shop will be open 12-5 on Mondays, 10-5 Tu-Fri and Sat. 9-2. Please make note and we will let you know in the Spring when we return to Summer Hours. Also FYI the shop will close at 1pm on December 24 and will re-open Saturday January 2,2010. OK I think that takes care of the business news.

Like everyone I am sewing for Christmas. There was a point in late October that I thought I may not get it all together. I am happy to report that other than 2 labels, I am done except for the wrapping. We have seen many lovely projects and creative designs that are going to make someone happy over the holidays.

Quilt retreat in Febuary will be here before we know it. If you are joining us, December is the month deposits are due. Maybe pick up something at the sale on the 19th for Feb. sewing.

The predictions for snow are in the forcast. I see flakes flying in the air. This Saturday, the 12th, is the 3rd running of the "Mike Breeggemann Memorial Denham Dash". We hold this event the 2nd weekend of each December to raise money for the local fire department in Mike's name. It is always "cold!" yet everyone still comes and joins in. The race is a fun walk/run from Mike's driveway to Mikey's bar. Call the shop for more info., we'd be pleased to have you join us.

And then there is this: Yesterday I set up the Christmas tree. The first time since 2006. It was hard. Mike and Christmas are very tied together in my mind. The last year Mike came home I had just finished setting up the tree. When he came over and saw it he said"you got the tree up, it looks great." That tree stood untouched for the next 18 months. It did not come down until Marty and I sold the house and I was forced to take it down. At one point I even thought about transporting it fully decorated to Mike's house where we now live. You see it wasn't just a tree anymore, it was the last tree. I set the tree up yesterday and then I stood back and said what I say every-year, "Isn't the tree beautiful", I could hear Mike saying "what took you so long".

And finally, last week Mike's friend Sam from the Hotshot Crew stopped in on his way across the country to visit his folks in Upstate New York. We were having coffee the morning he left, talking fire and Sam told me this. He said one of the most important lessons he learned from Mike when Mike was the Squad Boss of the crew was this. Mike said, "when you get to a fire, there will be alot of personnel there, Government and Private. Many people with differing opinions, skill levels and work ethic." He said "you look around and decide who your people are going to be, and then you go and fight the fire". In my mind the same holds true for all life. You look around and decide who your people will be and then you go and fight the fire.

On behalf of Seams Like Home Quilt Shop, Melissa and I would like to wish you and yours love and laughter this Holiday season, we thank-you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support both on a business level and on a personal level and at the end of everday we wish you the courage to "fight the fire".

till next time!

Did I say "later today"?

O.K. I know I said "later today" and yet somehow 2 weeks
managed to get by me. Nevertheless, I want to introduce
you to my newest grand-daughter Mallory. The proud Mom
in the photo is my daughter Katie. Both Mom and Mallory are
doing well and for that we are thank-full. Mallory joins
her two sisters, Monica and Laura and for Kevin and Katie, and all of our family, they are a "hat-trick" of the best kind.
Here at the shop it is busy, as usual. Although we didn't make it to Houston this fall, Melissa and I always take in Tri-State. The local trade show. We attend the meeting which this year featured a presentation of new and great from this years Market. It was then followed by an open forum discussion of business management techniques and marketing ideas. The "giveaways" are always great, the vendors really step up and donate from their product lines to entice the shop owners. We have been going often enough now that most faces are recognizable and names come much easier.
Back at the shop, we are cutting fat quarters until I could do it in my sleep. Make preparations for the "Fat Quarter Scramble" next tuesday. Arrive early, when they are gone, they are gone! New fabric arrives daily and although Fall fabric is still #1, we are seeing customers searching for last minute Christmas ideas. To help them out, Melissa has kitted table-runners in 3 different combinations. They are cute, fast and inexpensive. We've placed our Moda order from the new lines shown at Market. This fall we asked for help from the customers because it was all lovely and very hard to choose. We got some good advice and look forward to the new bolts arriving starting after the holidays. Open sewing is held all tuesdays, join us whenever you have the time. We have some modified hours our the long weekend of Thanksgiving. I will be working on Friday for any of you that don't participate mega-shopping craziness.
And then there is this:
After we leave Tri-State it has become tradition for us to go over to IKEA. We love that store and like to just follow the trail through the store gathering ideas and picking fun stuff up along the way. We reached the check-out area and the lines were long. Melissa was holding Nolan and very untypical for him he had fallen asleep in her arms. A woman waiting in the next line came over to Melissa and told her how she envied the fact that Melissa was able to hold that little boy and how you never forget how great that feels. She said her son is now eleven and no longer stands still for any affection, much less getting held. And then she said this. "I wish I knew when I was doing it, that it was the last time that my son would let me hold him like that. I wish I would have known it was the last time"
This is what I know. You never want to know the last time of anything good. You do not want to know.
Till next time

Let's hear it for Quilt Camp!

Our "Quilt Camp" group took some time off to pose for a quick photo.
Melissa is displaying an autograph sampler she was presented by the
group. What a great weekend! I am always amazed by just how much sewing and projects you can finish when sewing is your priority. Quilt camp has become a
gathering of friends. We get together twice a year and we are
now as comfortable with each other as a group can be. We share
inspiration, ideas, projects and plans. More importantly though
we share stories, laughter, support and wine. We look forward to February when the group will gather again.
In the shop we are in full Autumn swing. There is something about the fabrics of Fall that speak to all of us. Those rich reds, brillant oranges, multi-colored greens and deep golds. They are simply everyone's colors.
I hope you have marked your calenders for the "Fat Quarter Scramble" it is coming up November 17th. Call the shop for details. Also looking ahead: Our Thanksgiving weekend Sale, Friday the 27th and Saturday the 28th.
Again this year we support "National Tie-one On Day". November 21st. Make your favorite apron (we have many patterns in the shop for inspiration), bake a loaf of bread, wrap in the apron along with an inspirational poem handed out at the shop. Deliver to someone you know, thats needs a little support, understanding and love. If you have much to be thank-ful for, pass it along.
I must stop for now but will be back later today. I have a very important person to introduce to you. My new grand-daughter Mallory.
Till next time!

Wow, what a rainy start to fall! I was really glad to see the sunshine this morning, even if we do only get it for a few short hours!

Tomorrow is the start of the 2009 Holiday Extravaganza Shop Hop. Join is for three days of inspiration! Visit one shop or all, the choice is yours. The more shops you visit, the more prizes your have the chance to win...

Thursday, Oct. 8th: 9am-5pm

Friday, Oct. 9th: 9am-7pm

Saturday, Oct. 10th: 9am-5pm

Shop for holiday gift giving ideas and decorating ideas, along with the chance to win prizes, collect free patterns, and enjoy the camraderie of fellow quilters!

Participating Shops Include:

• Seams Like Home Quilt Shop, Sturgeon Lake
• Country Caboose Quilts, Wahkon
• Timeless Treasures of McGregor
• Fabric, Fashions, and More, Ruch City

At each shop receive a different,

• Free customer appreciation kit and
• A free pattern for a holiday project
• An opportunity to win a gift basket valued at $200.
• Register at each shop, a total of 4 given away!

PLUS, be sure to stop in at Seams Like Home Quilt Shop over the next three days to place your vote in this year's Charming Challenge! We have some adorable entries to vote on this again year.

What? It's September already!!

O.K. So while the cooler mornings, the sun setting earlier and the quietness of kids being back in school are all indications Summer is waning, Fall has still snuck up on me. August was a whirlwind of "The Minnesota Shop-Hop" followed by the "Quilter's Yard Sale" and of course one day spent at the State Fair.

Here at "Seams Like Home" it is everything Fall. The "Gobble. Gobble" wall-hanging is a pattern by Sandy Gervais-Pieces from my Heart with a fabric line by the same name from Moda. The turkey is imploring you to "eat more pie!"

Melissa has also put together from a "Gobble, Gobble" honey bun a quick project that would make a great wall-hanging , a table-topper or couch throw.

The lovely new fabric line in shades of plum, soft green and rich Burgundies and black is "Eva",new from Basicgrey for Moda. We have layer cakes, charm packs and yardage.

We are showing the ever popular "Bow Tucks" bag pattern by "Quilts Illustrated" in the new "All Star' line from Riley Blake Designs. And the last picture is the porch pillow pattern in "Mary Engelbreight" Christmas. You may remember I am lobbying for them to be a project at the upcoming fall retreat. Stop in and pick out your jelly roll, the pattern is free with purchase. The pillows are fun, quick to make, simple. Enough said.

The newsletter contains all the upcoming fall news, if you don't receive it, call the shop with your e-mail address and we will add you to the mailing list.

Block of the Month for 2008-09 is wrapping up and we are excited about the new projects for 09-10. Both new BOM's will start in the month of October. Stop in for a peek, read the rules and get signed up on the list.

Upcoming and worth marking your calender for is the "Fat Quarter Scramble". November 17,2009. Doors close at 6:00pm and re-open at 6:30pm. Scramble is one hour from 6:30-7:30pm. Fat Quarters will be $1.00 each sold only in groupings of 25. Not pre-bundled. Many other shop specials the same evening. This event has grown every year and we encourage you to be at the doors when they open for the best selection.

January of 2010 we are starting a book club. It will be a "Quilters Book club" and we will be reading and sewing with the Jennifer Chiaverini series "The Elm Creek Quilter's". The first novel will be "The Quilter's Apprentice" and the quilt blocks we will be making are from Jennifer's book "Sylvia's Bridal Sampler". Stop in and get signed up so we can place your order for books.

Don't forget: Daytime open sewing. Each Tuesday from 11-? Check that newsletter for classes that interest you and take the time to stop in and view Eleanor Burns truck show titled "El's Best Trunk Show" in the shop until the end of the month.

And then there is this:

I spent the morning meandering through our local town as they held city-wide garage sales. If you were to ask my family they would say that I have always been an auction person, a garage sale person, I like thrift stores and hand-me-downs. It is interesting to me what people save and what they sell. What they treasure and what they give away. My possessions are eclectic and varied. Although I will be the first to admit to many collections like Fiestaware that I watch for, my true passion is family memorabilia. If I have something that came from my Grand-parents or my parents it will stay in my charge until one of the kids or Grand-kids decides they would like to have it. It is one of the reasons that I find it interesting that one day a couple of years ago in a random conversation with my Dad, he felt the need to tell me that he has traps he has saved for years and although he knows they are collectible he hopes that my brothers will take them when the time comes. They were words not needed. My Dad knows that he raised children that understand when it comes to family memories we know how to care for them. I was fortunate enough today to bring to my youngest daughter, a framed needlework of wildflowers made by her husbands Grand-mother. The stitching is intricate, the coloring is beautiful, my daughter will treasure it until it is time to pass it on to her son. There is much in my life I was saving for Mike. It would have given his Dad and I the greatest joy to pass things on to him. I now care for Mike's things and it is something I give reverence and respect. You see, Mike was very much like me, a holder of tradition and it is important that I get this right. Everything Mike owned is a memory. A story from his life. We honor those who go before us, by caring for what they've left behind. Mike would want me to move forward, but he would also know that I will never let go.

Till next time.

Quilter's Yard Sale August 22nd 9am-1pm

Don't forget to stop by tomorrow, August 22nd, from 9am-1pm for our 4th annual Quilters' Yard Sale. There will be booths set up outside under a big tent, free lemonade, select fabrics in the shop for $3-4/yard and other specials. Come join the fun!

Playtime's Over

Mike and the fire guys used to have a saying "playtime's over" when R&R days were done and it was time to go back to the flames. Melissa and I and the rest of our gang just returned from spending 4 days along the beautiful North Shore. Out destination was Grand Marias but we meandered getting there. Grand Marais smiled on us with perfect weather,sunshine filled days and gentle nights. It is a hard town to leave. Our last evening up there we traveled up to "Trail Center" (30 miles up the Gunflint from Grand Marais, a must go). A local fellow, a musician was home from Nashville visiting his family. After some encouragement he opened the old upright piano in the corner and rocked the bar with "Great Balls of Fire". Perfect end to a great vacation. One of those moments where we were in the right time and the right place. His name is Tim Styles and I looked...he has a website. Take a moment and check it out.
So for us it truly is "Playtime is over" as we prepare to host old friends and new for the "Great" Minnesota Shop Hop. I know many of you are formulating your travel plans. I fielded some phone calls yesterday regarding hours etc. We have a dear and valued customer who has family come from the west coast and they travel most of the state in the next two weeks complete with 3-ring binders, with ideas, patterns and sites to remember. If you are lucky enough you may run into them somewhere, they will be the three that are just having the best time. Here at "Seams Like Home" we are ready. The welcome mat is out. The coffee pot is ready. The Minnesota Fabric is the first thing you will see as you come in the door. If you don't have ideas for a project, believe me when I say, we do.
New to the shop this week. Apron panels and embroider able tea towels on the bolt. Fabric is RJR and could not be cuter. The newest "Snap Sack" arrived yesterday and in the spirit of the new RJR fabric I chose a retro summer look for the fabrics. Sample will be done by days end. Stop in and see. The "Snap Sacks" have really caught on. Fun, Quick and everything you need for just $12.99. You only have 3 more days of "Christmas in July" hurry in and get those projects while all things Christmas are on sale.
And then there is this. When we were in Boise this past spring my husband and I were visiting with some folks from Yellowpine Idaho when the woman mentioned to me that she was a quilter. We were 48 miles up the mountain, single lane road on the edge of the "Frank Church Wilderness River of No Return", I think you can understand the remoteness of this place. I asked if I could see some of her work. She graciously said yes and took me into her sewing room. Imagine my surprise when the first thing I saw was an early model Gammill on the frame and more shelves of fabric than I have ever seen in a personal collection. This wonderful woman was well into her 80's with a passion for quilting that picked you up and swept you along with her. She gave me a "show and tell" that was beautiful and inspiring. She loved to do applique and had quilts on every bed in the house. She told me though that her eye-sight was failing and that all the corrective measures available had been tried. She was no longer able to sew. She walked through that room though and touched her fabric as though she were planning "the next project". This was the lesson. Here at the shop I so often hear, "I have so much fabric, I don't need anymore" when nothing really could be further from the truth. If it is your passion, feed that passion. There is a woman in remote Idaho we could all learn from.
Till next time!

Did we miss August?!!!

I am wondering where the last half of July and the whole month of August have gone? As I sit down to write it is overcast, chilly and misty. I am a summer girl and rarely if ever complain about the heat. The heat will be back and August is coming, I hope you have circled the 22nd on the calender and will come and shop or come and sell at the "Quilter's Yard Sale". This event has grown every year. The more sellers the more fun so pack up those UFO's, books and patterns-not quite right and fabric that no longer speaks to you. It is true that one man's "stuff"s is another man's "treasure" so bring those treasures to sell. You can still get space and a table. Call Melissa at the shop(hopefully before July 31st) and she will put you on the list. "Seams Like Home" will have lots of specials, lots of deals, lemonaide and treats. Come and join the fun. We set up a tent for inclement weather but as to date the weather has always been fine.
Seams Like Home has a new look inside. It was time to move things around in readiness for Quilt Minnesota and Fall. Some of the summer samples have been taken down and new samples have taken their place. There is inspiration everywhere and advice and assistance whenever you need it.
This is the week that my small niece heads to camp. She has been looking forward to this all summer. I am sending her a letter with some money inside for the "store". She is going with one friend, otherwise she will know no one. Such courage should be rewarded.
And finally this. My husband and I went to the movies this past week. We went to our little small town one screen movie theater. I love this place. Multi-plexs have their points but you simply cannot replicate the look, the feel and the smell of a theater that has been around as long as the "Lake" has. This theater has loads of neon signs, a ticket window where "back in the day" I imagine tickets were sold as you stood outside, hot buttered popcorn and the newest releases. OK, so the movie we saw was Disney's "Up" it was an animated poignant story of loss,unfinished dreams, deep love and a child that marches to his own drummer. In the end it was about gently letting go. The crowd was small, mostly adult. There was a young Mom there with two small girls around 4 and 6. They sat close together, eating popcorn, sharing their drinks, the girls were completely captivated by the movie. They showed the full range of emotion from devastation and tears to loud no holding back laughter. They didn't censor themselves ,they did not care what others thought. At the end of the movie, they clapped. Such honest emotion, not even on the screen. They were worth every penney of the admission price. Till next time!

Lots to Talk About

The days of summer pass too quickly. We are half-way through "Christmas in July" and heading towards the Quilter's yard-sale. If you are ahead of schedule and working on Christmas projects, stop in for great deals on fabric, kits and patterns. All Christmas fabrics and kits are 10% off and books and patterns for Christmas are 15% off. We have samples of several of the new lines to inspire you even in the hot days of summer. Also new layer cakes from Moda. "Aviary" by 3 Sisters, "Neptune" by Tula Pink, "Hushabye" by Tula Pink, "Swanky" by Chez Moi. We also have "Hushabye" and "Arcadia" in charm packs. New lines from Studio E include "Deja Brew" and "Nature-ology". From Windham Fabrics, a great new line commemorating the "Buffalo Bill Historical Center" in Cody, Wyoming called "Wild West". If you have not been to this museum, put it on your must see list. We have "Picnic Parade" a new Free Spirit, "About Town" a new Robert Kaufman and for fall, new from South Sea Imports, "Nature's Bounty"

We are getting very close to the start of the "Quilt Minnesota" shop hop. This event runs from July 31st to August 16Th. The fabric is very "Minnesota" and I can't imagine being from this state and not wanting something for the cabin, the camper or the family room out of this fabric. Here at "Seams Like Home" Melissa has samples of a large pillow, a quick pillowcase and a fantastic year-round tote. Please see photos. During the event we will be open 7 days a week, all shops will be open M-Sat. 10am-5pm and Sunday Noon-5pm. Grab a friend or take some much needed "just me" time and hit the road. A convertible is optional but would sure be fun! If you don't have a "top-down", put in your favorite travel CD, crank up the air and sing at the top of your lungs. Stop in to pre-order your fabric, we will cut it, package it up and it will be ready for you the 31st.

I intended to write about our trip to Boise but I think Melissa spoke for the family. In many ways it was something much bigger than words. I remember many years ago while vacationing in Grand Marais, we were eating at "Trail Center"( a restaurant Mike told me about where the fire guys would go when working in the area, another put on your must see list) anyhow I was lamenting about all those in the family that were working or whatever and not there with us and wishing they were, when my Dad said something I never forgot, he said "I'm just glad I'm here" and the truth of that has never left me. Sometimes it's just enough, that you are there. Fourteen of us went to Idaho to represent Mike. We made a memory. My 80 year old Dad stood up in a crowded auditorium of grieving Firefighter families and when it was our turn he said in a loud, clear voice words he never wanted to say under these circumstances. "We are here for Mike Breeggemann". We went to Boise searching for some peace, Boise did not let us down. God Bless the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, they are doing his work.

This is the week that my Mom and 8-9 of her best girl friends vacation on the shores of beautiful Sturgeon Lake. They have been coming here for as many years as I can remember. They pile in a couple of vans loaded with food, clothes, cards and cocktails. They will laugh, play cards, eat, visit all the local sights and sun themselves on the lake. What they do best for each other though is listen. These women have seen each other through all that life is, both the good and the unbearable. They are in their 60's, 70's and soon to be 80's. Their group started out known as the "Sassy Lassie Homemakers". They are not ashamed of this. That is what and who they are. They made homes for husbands, passels of kids and themselves. I am a grateful recipient of their sacrifices. May they travel safely. They are the Matriarchs of many.

And finally this. Today is the 27Th birthday of my youngest daughter Heidi. Heidi is a child of the "break dancing" generation. When she was four, I am not even kidding you she had a dance routine that would send people into peals of laughter. To say she was a ham would be an understatement. She is a "glass-half-full" person and feels things on the deepest level with as much soul as you can pack into one person. I consider her one of my closest friends and best confidantes. Her son Nolan shows all indications that he will be Heidi-the next generation. I always thought guardian angels that helped give you strength were older, but I know for a fact I have seven that stay with me each and everyday. Happy Birthday Babe! Till next time!

Melissa and her running partner Jen celebrate after finishing the Gary Bjorkland half-marathon in Duluth and Melissa shares a quiet moment with her smallest fan, nephew Nolan.

Well we traveled to Duluth on one of the hottest days we've had this year to watch Melissa finish the half. This is her second running of this race. The first was two years ago when she ran it for the first time with both of her sisters and Mike's good friend Ana. They trained hard to run in memory of Mike. It was the start of a running life-style. I joke that Melissa is like Forrest Gump. She "just started runnin'" and she shows no sign of letting up. Melissa and Jen were joined by Jen's Mom Deb who wasn't available for a photo. Many of you know Deb as she occasionaly works here at Seams Like Home. They ran under the team name of the Dashing Diva's and they all finished in their expected time and looking very strong. The entire city of Duluth seems to be under construction and we had to get very creative to reach the finish line before the "Diva's" did. If you haven't had the opportunity to be in Duluth for the running of Grandma's, put it on your must see list. The excitement, the crowds, the inspiration. It is as much a spectator event as it is a running event.

Seams Like Home is getting ready for "Christmas in July". This year though the Christmas fabric is flying out the door. We may get the tree up, the Christmas music playing and already be sold out of the bulk of the lines we ordered. Stop in and see what's in store for 2009. We still have some snap sacks of the 4th of July banner. These snap sacks are quick and easy. Everything you need except the batting for $12.99. You still have time to have one hanging on the front door before Saturday.

Today it was time to clean up the scrap box and so there are plenty of new grab bags in the red shopping cart. All grab bags are $4.00 and are a fun way to add some stash in random colors and prints.

I'm pulling out the "Turning Twenty" pattern, my go-to pattern for a quick quilt. My grand-daughters have bunk beds now and that gives me a chance to create new "girl quilts" for them. Monica took a look at the fabrics I chose and gave me the thumbs up. Laura liked them too, but they both wondered if I could put some Princess' on the quilts. They don't get that they are the princess'.

And then this. This past weekend I went to a graduation party for my niece Mollie. I made Mollie the "Carpenter's Star" in shades of deep purple as her graduation quilt. Mollie is gifted academically but more than that, Mollie is an "old soul". She is that person that "shows up", is present and "gets things". I could not be prouder of her. I put a label on the back of Mollie's quilt with the message I wanted her to have from me. A quilt label is the finishing touch and you MUST put one on every quilt you make. Mollie's had a line from the song "The River".

Don't sit upon the shore and say you're satisfied

Choose to chance the rapids, dare to dance the tides.

I say the same to you all. Till next time!

One busy week!

Last week simply flew by! We hit the ground running on Monday with quilters traveling north to prepare for the Minnesota Quilt Show and Conference. We were participating in the "Great Potty Stop Hop" and the quilters just kept coming. Everyone having so much fun. It was a bit of the "school just let out" feeling with the summer or in this case the week stretching out with so many possibilities. Singles, couples, groups and buses, we had them all. The staff here at Seams Like Home thanks each and everyone of you who stopped in for a visit. Melissa and I were able to get to the show on Thursday. What inspiration, what talent. We were humbled and awed. We spent time slowly honoring the Alzheimer's quilt projects. Stories told from the heart that had to be read slowly and completely. We congratulate all the ribbon winners and everyone who "jumped off the dock" and sent part of who they are to be viewed and appreciated. We submitted work of our own in the non-judged category. "Wildfire" was pieced by both Melissa and I in 2007 to honor Mike and his career as a Wildland Firefighter. We hope you saw it.
Here at the shop today it's all about playing catch-up and putting things back to order. When I get a chance to catch my breath I want to tell you about our amazing trip to Boise.
I hope the sun is shining in your life. Until next time. Susan

4th Anniversary Sale is tomorrow!

4th Anniversary Sale

Tomorrow, Saturday, June 6th from 9am to 4pm is our 4th Anniversary Sale. It has been a great four years. Thank you for all of your support and business! To celebrate, please join us for door prizes, refreshments, and specials:
10% off all kits
15% off all books and patterns
$1.50 pre-cut fat quarters
$4.00 pre-cut panels

Next week is the Minnesota Quilters Show in Duluth.

The Great Potty Stop Hop
Visit these three exciting quilt shops any time during the week of the Minnesota Quilters Show & Conference in Duluth (or on your way to/from Duluth).
While at each store register to win one of their five (5) $10 store gift certificates. Fifteen gift certificates to be given away in all.
Valid Monday, June 8th thru June 13th, 2009 at:
Seams Like Home Quilt Shop/Sturgeon Lake
Fabric Fashions & More /Rush City
Silver Lane Quilting/Forest Lake.

We’ve gone to great lengths to specially decorate our bathrooms just for your visit!

Bring on Summer...

After yesterday's cold spell, I was ready for today's sunshine and warmth...

I have mentioned to many of you the website: http://www.modabakeshop.com

It is a great site for using all of the pre-cut fabric products that are on the market currently. There are lots of free patterns; everything from table runners and baby quilts to skirts, aprons and journal covers. Check it out when you have the chance.

We have created our own little "bake shop" area here at the shop. On this shelf you will find current charm packs, jelly rolls, honey buns, layer cakes and more.

One of the newest "pre-cut" items offered by Moda is the "Scrap Bag." This is approx. 40 selvage strips of coordinated fabrics (1/2 pound of fabric) for $9.99. Many of the strips are 2 1/2" or wider. Great for scrappy projects.

Upcoming Events:

4th Anniversary Sale
Saturday, June 6th 9am to 4pm
Join us for door prizes, refreshments, and specials:
10% off all kits
15% off all books and patterns
The Great Potty Stop Hop
Visit these three exciting quilt shops any time during the week of the Minnesota Quilters Show & Conference in Duluth (or on your way to/from Duluth).
While at each store register to win one of their five (5) $10 store gift certificates. Fifteen gift certificates to be given away in all.
Valid Monday, June 8th thru June 13th, 2009 at:
Seams Like Home Quilt Shop/Sturgeon Lake
Fabric Fashions & More /Rush City
Silver Lane Quilting/Forest Lake.

And 15% off your total purchase. Limit one coupon per customer, valid only during week of June 8th-13th.

We’ve gone to great lengths to specially decorate our bathrooms just for your visit!

Easy Layer Cake Quilt:

A pattern by Quilt in a Day. Use the convenient pre-cut 10” layer cake squares and jelly rolls to create this quick quilt. Approx. finished size is 58”x85”
Instructor: Melissa Johnson
Fee: $6 plus materials and supplies (pattern $9.00 by Quilt in a Day)
Class meeting dates/time: 10-1pm May 30th
Level: Beginner and up
Kitchen Charm Apron:
A pattern by Indygo Junction. A full or half apron created with pre-cut 5” charm pack fabrics or with fabrics from your stash.
Instructor: Melissa Johnson
Fee: $6 plus materials and supplies (pattern $9.99 by Indygo Junction)
Class meeting dates/time: 5:30-8:30pm June 9th
Level: Beginner and up
Barb’s Little Shop Hop Bag:
A pattern by B.H. Quilting. Perfect little purse for hands free shopping. Purse has zippered money pocket, quilt card/ credit card pockets, outside cell phone pocket and room for a small digital camera.
Instructor: Barb Howell
Fee: $10 plus materials and supplies (pattern $9.00 by B.H. Quilting)
Class meeting dates/time: 5:30-8:30pm June 16th
Level: Beginner and up

Call or stop in to register for a class. See you soon!

Trip to Boise part 2...

We all have "Team Breeg" forest service green shirts from when we ran Grandma's Half Marathon in honor of Mike. Now we use the shirts for other events too. Each December we have a fun run called the Mike Breeggemann Memorial Denham Dash, with all proceeds benefiting the Sturgeon Lake Fire Department. (More details in November. It's a open to anyone to join the fun!)

Smokey Bear visited the Family Fire Weekend and Nolan and Dad got acquainted with him.

Mike's memorial marker. His marker was placed in a beautiful spot in the memorial garden. The garden has a waterfall and bronze statues of wildland firefighters. It is a very peaceful place and Mike would be honored to be a part of it all. We will forever love and miss him.

Our Trip to Boise...

Back from Boise and the Wildland Firefighter Foundation Memorial. It was an incredible trip, very emotional, but very special. The way they honored Mike and the other firefighters was exceptional.

Nolan "busy" at the airport! It was his first trip on an airplane and he did great!One of the activities for the family fire weekend was the "Lucky Peak Challenge." This is a run/walk/slog to the top of Lucky Peak in Boise. It is a 3000 foot climb winding around 6 miles of trails. At the top is a toast to our fallen firefighter friends and family and then back down the 6 miles of mountain trails. It was quite the challenge, but so worth it. The picture above is a shot from the top of the peak. The challenge was started to honor the firefighters lost in the Storm King Fire of 1994. One of the fallen firefighters brother is one of the founders of the race. All proceeds benefit the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.
It was amazing what kind of refreshments people pulled out of their backpacks at the top. This is Chad (one of the race organizers) and he brought all the fixings for martinis, including stuffed olives!

I was lucky enough to be able to do the race with firefighter friends of my brother, Mike. We are pictured above with Mike's favorite "Champange of Beer" for the toast. From left to right is: Brenda, Ana, me, and Sam.

See next post for a few more pictures!

Kindergarten Graduation

Just returned from the Willow River kindergarten graduation program. Pictured above is our little graduate in the family, my niece Monica.Laura, Monica's younger sister, was a diligent photographer during the entire program.

Christmas fabrics started to arrive yesterday. Above is a grouping by Moda called Holly Jolly Snowmen. We have the panel, charm packs and three other coordinating prints. One is a really rich red that I just love.

Three new fabrics from the new Valori Wells line, Del Hi came in yesterday too.

Another new Christmas line by Moda, Majestic Yule. These fabrics have a delicate touch of gold metallic to them. The cardinals are an intense red.

Next week, we still have openings for the X bag purse class on Tuesday 10-1pm and Thursday 5:30-8:30pm. Also, daytime open sewing on Tuesday. Call or stop in to register.

Well, this will be my last post until next week, after the Idaho trip. Have a great weekend!

Start of a busy week...

Well, I hope everyone had a great weekend and a nice Mother's Day! Shawn and I went golfing with his mom yesterday. It was a great day for golf, now I just need to learn how to actually hit the ball! My mom is traveling so I only spoke to her on the phone. She and Dad were in the Badlands of South Dakota, on a mission to see a herd of buffalo. Sounded like they were enjoying great weather and a good trip. Some of the rest of us will be joining them in Idaho this next weekend. Boise is the home of the Wildland Firefighter Memorial. This next weekend is family weekend when they place new memorial markers to honor wildland firefighters. Saturday there will be demonstrations of forest service activities and Sunday is the memorial ceremony. This year a marker will be placed in honor of my brother, Mike. I am really looking forward to the trip. I know it will be very emotional, but I am and always was so proud of Mike and his firefighting career. It just feels right that there is a way to honor him.

In the meantime, I need to get a few samples done this week and get the shop ready to be without me for a few days. I just received an email confirming the shipment of some of this year's Christmas fabrics. They should arrive by Wednesday already! Tomorrow (Tuesday) is daytime open sewing. Join us if you can. Thursday is our first apron class. We are doing the jelly roll friendly Four Corners apron at 5:30pm. Call the shop to sign up.
Have a great day!

Photos

My Son, Mike

The crew "buggy"

Melissa and her running partner Jen.

Moose Run 2009

Heidi the Happy Owner

of

The Happy Scizzor

Everything goin'on at once!

This past Saturday was busy! Melissa ran the "10K Moose Run" in Moose Lake. The weather was great and it is good to have this race back in action after one year off. Lots of runners, lots of volunteers and from what I could see a successful day. As a former participant in this race for many years, I send a big high five to the planning commitee. Good Job! Melissa is an effortless runner and has embraced running with enthusiasm. She will be the first to say that her brother Mike is her running inspiration, Mike ran daily for fitness, a Wildland Firefighter can owe his life to being in shape and being fast when needed. No one would be prouder of Melissa's racing and running than Mike.

After the race it was run home and head to the newest family business "The Happy Scizzor". The relatives were all here from the Metro area to "check out" the new shop and get glammed up in the process.

Today I am at "work". Looks as tho the Quilt Shop was very busy over the weekend too. Wendy and Jane were working and Melissa and I so appreciate this capable duo who come in and pinch hit when the two of us both need to be gone. Along with Deb who also fills in for us we occasionally get to go to the same events. Many Thanks!

This will be a busy week. Kicked off with Block of the Month, then on to Thimbleberries Club, pillowcase class on Wednesday and Saturday. Don't forget class sign-up day on Saturday, discount for earlybird sign-up. Our "Mother's Day Sale" is Saturday also. 15% off all in-stock patterns and books, 10% off all fabric cuts of one or more yards. Shop for your Mom, daughter, daughters-in-law or yourself!

Well I better get sewing, before I go I wanted to tell you. I went to the mailbox last week and when I opened it I had recieved a handwritten letter. I cannot tell you how much pleasure this gave me. In this world of e-mail, texting and cell phones, hand written correspondence has fallen by the wayside. I myself am a letter writer. I started writing letters seriously in the 80's after the death of my Grandpa. I would write long letters to my Grandma hoping that something I had to say would for a short time help her deep sadness. As I look back I think what I was really doing was writing to help my deep sadness. Whatever the reason it started me writing. I challenge you all, today, pick up a pen and write someone a letter. The paper doesn't matter, the length doesn't matter, what matters is this. Say the words you hear in your head when you think of this person. Tell them that story, the words from your head, that you can feel in your heart. Do it. You will always be glad you did.

And this: My Son Mike is going to be recognized and honored in Boise, Idaho this Spring. The "Wildland Firefighters Monument" is located there on the grounds of the Interagency Dispatch Center. A marker will be placed for Mike with his name, the designation that he is from Minnesota and the name of his crew, "Black Mountain Hotshots". Mike's family will stand as the representatives for Mike when his name is called among the names of the other men and women of fire that will be honored for the year 2009. I cannot even tell you how much he is missed.

Till next time.

Happy Friday!

Well, I am back and well rested. Shawn and I went with a group of family and friends to Chula Vista Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. Great place and a great deal this time of year! Thank you, again to Mom for taking such great care of the shop!

I can see why adding pictures is hard for Mom. I had great plans to add pictures today from her camera and I can't figure it out; need a different cord, I guess. Today is my sister, Heidi's, grand opening of her very own salon in Denham. It is an adorable place. I hope to post the pics sometime this weekend yet. If you have time today, take the drive. Her open house is until 6pm. Go west of Sturgeon Lake on Farm to Market Road about 6 miles. Turn left on Denham Road and continue for about 2 miles. Cross over the bridge and you will see her cute yellow cottage on the left, The Happy Scissor Beauty Shoppe.

In the meantime, below are some pictures of fabrics that arrived this week...

Photo 1: Two fabrics from Timeless Treasures. One is fabulous high heels, the other is dress forms and mannequins.

Photo 2: This is a great new line called "About Town" by Robert Kaufman. I think it is calling for a great tote bag to be made from it!

Photo 3: These adorable fabrics are from Robert Kaufman's "Forest Fun" line. I ordered it mostly for the goofy moose.

The boss is away! 1st Blog-giveaway.

O.K. So here's how the day went. I sewed, made mistakes, ripped. Sewed, made mistakes ripped. I know we all have those days where your intentions are good but for every step you take forward, you go back. If I was at home I would have quit and gone for a walk with the dog (more about "Naughty Nevada", the new black lab pup later)but when I am at "work" I must stick with the project. I know many of you have seen the "pleated pillow samples" here at the shop. They are a favorite of mine, done in soft porch pastels. Well, I am making a set in Christmas fabric and this is one of those times where I wish I knew how to post a photo, they are cute. A photo would speak the loudest. Again I will learn. Just a heads up for everyone that is joining us for Quilt Retreat in the fall. I am going to lobby hard for the pillows to be one of our projects. One jelly roll makes three pillows, great gifts or just enjoy for yourself.
Have you seen the new "Snap Sacks". They are quick projects, tablerunner or table-topper size, all fabric, backing, binding and pattern in a sack. A new one is released each month, they are quick and fun. We have moved on to month #4 and there are samples of each and everyone in the shop.
Finally, my mistakes today might be your gift tomorrow. I thought it might be fun to send you on a little hunt around the shop. Although Melissa and I work hard on the quality of our samples, mistakes happen. The project I worked on today required emergency piecing, twice. So, here's the deal. Stop in the shop and if you can find my mistakes, you can choose a free fat quarter from the basket at check-out. This giveaway is blog driven only, it will not be advertised at the shop. Don't wait, limited to the first 25 detectives. I'll even give you a clue.

I am not a big quilt

or even a throw

I'm quite small as you can see

As much work as it took to get me together

I'm as pretty as pretty can be.

Good Luck!

Till next time.

Mom in charge!

I am at the shop early today to ready things for open sewing. Melissa is out of town for a mini-vacation and I am the keeper of the gate, so to speak. People often say when arriving "oh, you're working today?" I always say that "working" might be too strong of a word for what I am doing. To be here surrounded by this wonderful fabric talking to people as interested in Quilting as I am, well you get the picture. Anyhow, back to open sewing, we sew here at the shop most every Tuesday (and sometimes Wednesday), it's informal, fun and open to everyone. We feed each others interests, trade inspiration, talk about things completely un-quilt-related, laugh, sometimes cry and of course we eat. You are welcome anytime!
I wanted to let you know about a few new things at the shop that I think you will love. We have new bolts from a line called "Hot Blossom" by Robert Kaufman. Beautiful deep brown with turquise flowers. I picture aprons, totes and of course all things "quilt". Next, bolts of baby flannel from RJR called Lullaby and Goodnight. Not traditional baby colors of pink and blue but instead what the young Moms seem to prefer, brown, yellow and pale green. Very contempory, very baby! The "Oh,Cherry Oh" line from Me and My Sister Designs by Moda has been a fast seller. Melissa has tablerunners made up that are so cute! 36x20 the kit includes it all. Binding and backing too. On your patio table, your sunroom and of course the kitchen, perfect. Finally if today you are not in the mood to sew but instead think you might just want to drag a lawn chair to the back-yard and soak up this beautiful sunshine, stop in for the new "Quilt Sampler" magazine, just delivered from Fed-Ex. Then get a glass of tea, a comfortable chair and a spot in the sun to dream. Till next time!

Mom signs on!

Well, here I go. This falls under the category of "jumping off the dock". Melissa has invited me to blog along side her and although I am honored, there is a feeling of do I have anything to say that others want to listen to? I can navigate the computer pretty well but some things continue to elude me ie: adding pictures, but I will learn.
I can't begin this journey without telling you a story. Four years ago when Melissa opened this shop, I had no idea that the Seams Like Home Family would grow like it has and having said that I certainly never thought that like all families do, they would support us on the good days and stay with us through the worst. I am the Mother of four children. Melissa is the oldest followed by Mike, Katie and Heidi. Two years and five months ago, my son, Melissa's brother was killed in an accident. Mike's death launched all of us on a grief journey that none of us were prepared for. We had not packed, we had no map. The english language fails when an attempt is made to put words to this grief. I would compare it like this. You have planned a trip your whole life. A place you want to live, maybe Minnesota, even Australia. You have done your research, trained, prepared. You are optimistic and hopeful, heading toward your destination, the wonderful place where your dreams reside. Suddenly and without any warning you find yourself in say Bosnia. A war torn country where you know no one, you don't speak the language and you understand in the deepest place that this is where you now live and you will never go back to the place you were. The Seams Like Home family and this community at large continue to lay down trail for the new destination I will someday find. I tell you this because I can only write from where I am. I know that I am not alone. Many of our customers share stories of their own, some of them about trips they plannned for a lifetime and others like me, that got shuttled to a place they have never been. Seams Like Home took on a job it may never have seen on opening day. This is a place of creativity, hope, healing and understanding. It is also a place of joy, laughter, hugs and acceptance. You are welcome here any time.
Don't doubt yourself. Just "jump off the dock" Till next time.

Welcome!

Well, here goes nothing... Seams Like Home Quilt Shop is entering the blogging world! Mom and I will be working together to try to keep the blog updated with new products and events at the shop along with other things on our minds.

We recently did a full re-arrange here at the shop below are a few photos of the work in progress and some of the results. (left to right:the new baby room, hanging the new sign, classroom space, Nolan, the mini helper (my nephew)

Today I am working on the newsletter for May through August. We have many great events and classes in store for you! To see the full newsletter visit: http://www.seamslikehomequiltshop.com/

Have a great weekend!