Greetings quilters it is already July and after getting the garden planted and to that just watering stage it is time to spend some time doing my quilting things. In June we had one of our grandkids graduate from high school in the bay area and while down there we picked up two of our other grandkids and brought them home for two weeks. Both boys 13 and 7 years old. One of the goals during their stay with us was to finish the 13 year olds quilt he started 5 years ago before moving to the bay area. The other goal was to create something new with the 7 year old. 
We had so much fun because they literally wanted to go to the art studio everyday and create. Each morning it was “Are we going to the art studio today” So you can see with the photos they painted, and completed their tops.
I plan on quilting them at a later date. The day we were transferring them to their next host family so to speak we went shopping and found the backing for each quilt. All and all it was wonderful. These two had never operated a sewing machine before and it turned out that they were naturals at it.
I have a 1/2 speed sewing feature on my Bernina and it was perfect for them. When it was time for them to go they had pretty much worn me out but it was worth it.
Immediately after they flew the nest (one to Salt Lake the other to Seattle) it was time to get ready for the Desert Sage Quilt Guild elections the end of June with my first board meeting a week after. Meanwhile I have been working on my hand painted inventory for a program that I will do for the Burley quilters in August. 
It sounds like a lot of work but you know I truly am enjoying it. Teaching the grandkids and preparing my program gave the little push I needed to try some new designs and techniques. 
You know with the hot weather we are having right now it is great to water the plants and then hang out in the art studio with awesome air conditioning. I hope you are taking time along with the yard work to do creative stuff in your quilting world too. Let me know what creations you have made so far?
As always I enjoy your site! I have planted all the starts you and Ray gave to me. I can report that the hollyhocks are thriving and they make me think of you both when ever I pass by them in the yard. They do not seem to mind the horribly hot weather we are enduring – over 101 for the last week. The iris you gave me have been eaten by some hungry and mysterious creature- I thinking a vole… as one day they were there doing well and the next day -poof…they were gone. I have monster tomato pants that love the hot hot days! Your sunflower squares are terrific and will make a bright addition. I just had my Babylock serviced for the first time ever so I am looking forward to some sewing and embroidery time this weekend. Thanks for sharing your creative world with us…..see you soon…
Such cheerful artwork Karen, and the kids are very handsome, of course right?
I especially like the sail boat and the butterfly squares; biased about boats and colorful flying creatures, and sunflowers. Oh, and pumpkins too.
Stay cool and am happy to see you enjoying your talents.
Love,
Rox