I’ve been sitting at the sewing machine, once again piecing my quilt. My iPod is playing Diana Krall singing “Dancing in the Dark.” This CD was arranged by the legendary Claus Ogerman, who arranged lots of Jobim’s music – most memorably on Francis Albert Sinatra and Antonio Carlos Jobim. I love Frank Sinatra singing most anything, but that particular recording is my favorite of his because he’s restrained, beautifully taking us on a journey through sexy bossa nova rhythms. I think he’s at his best, along with “Fly Me to the Moon”, and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Back to Diana Krall: I recommend this recording highly! “Dancing in the Dark” has the most wonderful arrangement with a Brazilian samba-like accompaniment by a full orchestra. It is on The Look of Love.
Thought I’d share this handy (at least to me) gadget I found at my local quilt shop. I believe the owner said it came from Japan.
The left side is a mini cutting mat and the right side has a sandpaper/emery board-like finish.
I can cut and trim pieces that I have sewn on the mat and the other side is terrific for marking fabric before sewing.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t always want to get up and walk to my larger cutting mat. I work in a small space and after the initial cutting of fabric is done, I can put away the large mat and work with this little guy right next to my machine. It folds up and looks like this:
I assume Cotton Boll is the name of the manufacturer. It has proven to be invaluable in my little, little space.
Autumn is in the air, and after my initial sadness about my garden, I am now happy that Fall is here. Funny thing about the seasonal changes – I always think I’m not ready for the changeover, but when it is time, I’m absolutely ready. Mother Nature knows best.
More later.
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