Monday, July 11, 2016

Going Coastal

On Thursday I'm getting on the Amtrak Coast Starlight train and heading up to Portland Oregon. I took the train once before, from Philadelphia to Washington DC, but I was by myself and think I napped most of the way.  I barely remember it. This time I'll be sharing a sleeper car with my youngest sister in a space the size of Harry Potter's cupboard under the stairs, and I imagine there will be lots of giggling and snorting into the wee hours.  Portland, bless that beautiful city, will only be about 75 degrees when I get there.  I will be leaving 100 degrees behind at home. I might have to dig my jeans out of the "winter" side of the closet.
I finished 5 squares on my popcorn stitch blanket so far.  I know the picture is only showing 4, but it was hard to photograph an odd number, so you get the idea. I'm hoping to make a few more on the train.
 I had some help from the dog going through my scrap bin to make several nine patch blocks.  I want to set them on point but I'm having a difficult time deciding on a background color.  Usually I reach for a cream color (safe), but I feel like all my quilts are starting to look the same. I might need to take a chance on this one and branch out of my comfort zone.
Lastly I'm making a linen project bag to take on the train, and I decided to work a cross stitch motif on the front, found in Alicia Paulson's Embroidery Companion book.  Since she lives in Portland, I thought it would be a fun reminder of my upcoming trip.  Have a great week wherever you are!

9 comments:

  1. I love riding the Amtrak! You and your sister will have a blast together!
    Oregon is such a beautiful state. I'm loving that popcorn stitch blanket...
    I especially love your helper in the second picture :-)

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  2. The train trip sounds like fun, enjoy the time with your sister.
    And I like the things you are working on - as always, you just have good taste.
    KATRIN W.

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  3. Have a fabulous time! It sounds like fun! I have a friend who has just moved to Seattle (or was it Portland?) Your crocheting is really love!

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  4. Enjoy your girlie trip - plenty of giggling should definitely be on the agenda. The popcorn squares look lovely as do the nine patch squares, lots of variety - it's the spice of life. Have fun.

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  5. Have a terrific trip with your sister! What about deep,rich eggplant color for the background?

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  6. Can I just say I'm a teeny bit jealous??? Have a wonderful trip and enjoy the train and all that Portland has to offer!! Love the popcorn squares!! xoxo

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  7. When I first saw your nine patch blocks, I thought you were going to say they were antiques. Your dog has a nose for vintage when selecting fabrics! ;)

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  8. Have a wonderful trip, I want to go with you!
    Hugs,
    Meredith

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  9. Oh my goodness, a train journey! That just sounds so wonderful. Enjoy every minute. :)

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You guys are awesome! Thank you for the comments!