Happy Valentine's Day!!!!!!

This is a long post, so you may need to procure a liquid refreshment before starting (don't say I didn't warn you!).

First, I'm sure you remember to use one block per paper plate to keep things organized.  Yes, I cut all the gray background to go with the colored pieces.

 First block machine pieced and pressed.

Second top completed, no borders will be added.

First top done, with borders.  Out of gray now.

My first hand stitches in about 15 months!  I machine quilted a top I had pieced before the stroke and added binding.  My left hand does not hold the binding fabric back like before (hopefully soon) so the stitches are not hidden as well.  Did the best I could and moved on.  See two pictures down for front of piece.

A kit from Connecting Threads.  Fused (what the ??) wool on cotton.  Hand blanket stitched.  A gentle reminder--ALWAYS cut the background bigger, applique, then cut it to size!  I forgot, and the black raveled a lot, not leaving me enough room to bind. I chose to let the raveling work for me and machine appliqued the block to a bigger piece of black and raveled the edges.  I chose a red/white fabric for the back (looks like snow), stitched right sides together with Thermore, then turned it right side out and ladder stitched the opening.  A plus for Christmas 2019.  The pattern called for French knots, which I couldn't do, so I sewed on red/white beads instead!

 The finished quilt!  The first hand stitching so far.  At least it helps cue my hand!

Sorry the pictures are sort of out of order and not cropped.  Still typing with one hand.  Finished a third plus sign runner yesterday.  Presently reading about a neuroscientist who survived brain tumors and is telling her experiences.  I'm still here, working hard every day.  Able to walk with no aids inside, short quad cane outside.  

Thanks to all who left comments last post--greatly appreciated!

Blissful hugs,
Sharon

P.S.  Yes, that is a new pouch from Hot4Handbags on the counter!  The front has a cute cut-out that looks just like Lynnie, my last boxer--I had to have it!

P.P.S.  For those who remember my adage "you may pin more than me, but never less" the ante has now been raised!  I pin much more now.  Who knew?