Hot Summer Fun

Today is the 60th birthday of my friend Lyn, and I had two very special birthday gifts for her:

I have cross-stitched this great CherryWood Design pattern using variegated threads - and though I say it myself the end result is quite stunning!  This is not my usual design choice, but I really enjoyed sewing this and the sentiments are perfect.
And through "Blogland" I discovered Cathy Daniel and her blog Potter Jotter :(www.catherinedanielceramics.com).  Cathy makes the most amazing patchwork themed pottery, and she kindly made this bowl as a commission for me to give to Lyn:

Don't you think it is just fantastic?!  I was so thrilled with it - and, more importantly, so was Lyn!

With the weather being so glorious we sat on our deck - where it was shady - and enjoyed a glass of wine to toast her special day - followed by a traditional Cream Tea.  Big Fun.
It has really been too hot to do much sewing or patchwork, so on Friday I went over to one of my favourite places:  Cowslip.  Jo's new book - Cushions and Quilts - had just arrived and she kindly signed a copy for me: this is a wonderful book full of beautiful projects:

As always the shop was full of amazing quilts, including Jo's latest award winning masterpiece:

So many beautiful fabrics, so much inspiration and temptation:

and just a general feeling of peace and tranquility which is so uplifting.  Cowslip is pure patchwork heaven and one of my most favourite places to visit - when I leave I am already planning my next trip over!  Jo deserves all success possible with her book.

Wherever you are in the world I hope you are having a great week, and for those of us in the UK - long may this beautiful hot sunny weather last.