I've been saying we moved back to Cleveland, but unlike the 26 years we previously lived here in close-in suburbs, we now live a little further out. Although we're in a village, with sidewalks and within walking distance to a charming little town, we're out here in the country a bit which is a new thing for me. My inclination to choose local roads over highways has led to a number of drives home from out-of-town errands where I start out clearly in the right direction but after several miles on winding country roads and T-bone intersections (and on overcast days, with no help from the location of the sun), I have no idea where the heck I'm heading. But it's beautiful out here and the most picturesque season, so it could be worse!
The other day on the way home from a plumbing supply warehouse in Akron, I found myself, somehow, at Hale Farm. It was a warm afternoon, so quiet out there that you could hear the faint bleating of a few sheep in an adjacent field. I had to pull over and take a few shots. My irritation at wasting so much time (again) looping around in search of a familiar landmark faded away as I chided myself to enjoy the moment.
My days haven't yet fallen into any routine as I had hoped they would have by now. We've been having some work done on the house, some things expected, others not. In some cases, one small job leads to consideration of something else and after our previous moves and more deliberate scheduling of things over months (and years), we are more inclined this time to just get things done and enjoy the place. Nothing major, but work that involves estimates, consideration of options, researching and shopping for choices and then scheduling the work. So time-consuming and for someone like me who can't make a decision, mentally exhausting. So far we've had two chimneys rebuilt, a foundation crack repaired, a new water heater installed and three rooms painted. Some bathtub work, a new cooktop/wall oven installation, some routine electrical work and replacement stair railings are penciled in for the next few weeks. I've been feeling like I'm spinning my wheels here, but seeing it written down, I guess we're making progress.
I told you I'd get permission to share more of my Chicago friends' work and I have so now's a good time to show a few beautiful examples. (There are more...patience!) This wonderful mini-basket quilt belongs to Sheila. The story is that several of the quilting friends visited the New England Quilt Museum years ago and fell in love with a similar antique version that was displayed, folded, in a drawer of an antique bureau. Holding an envelope or post card over the quilt as comparison, Sheila estimated the size of the basket block (4", I'm guessing?) and upon their return, a few of them starting churning out little blocks which they exchanged and used in their own individual versions of the quilt.
Although I can't recall whose are whose, they clearly could tell each basket's maker from the depth of the handles...so-and-so made hers shallow, another's were all close to the block edge. I hear that someone we know was part of this group effort. Maybe we can nudge Barb to share some photos of her version?
When Sheila folded up her basket quilt and unfurled this beauty, I was clearly not prepared. Is this gorgeous or what?!! She explained that several of them had seen the antique version in an exhibit at the museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan and had decided to make their own versions. I was hardly noting the details, so taken was I with the applique and the tiny triangle piecing in the pineapples.
I do love a good red, green and cheddar quilt! After I had oohed and ahhed over it for quite a while, examining everything from the layout to the quilting design, Kathy said she had brought several to share. I wasn't expecting this...
Yes, her version of the same Michigan quilt. In contrast to Sheila's, Kathy's is made on a warmer, buttery background. Although the blocks are the same, they each varied their borders from the original.
Kathy incorporated a floral basket along her bottom edge, as well as her appliqued initials and date. If you'd like to compare them to the original, here is the photo from the museum's website. If you look closely, you can probably find more places where they have individualized their designs.
After I wrote the 'My tribe' post, I emailed several of the group to ask about some of the details of their quilts which I had forgotten during the time that elapsed over our move. They answered all of my questions and included stories I hadn't heard. And Mary asked for my new address.
A few days later, a large envelope arrived with the pattern, which she said she knew she would never make. I've since been poring over the interesting construction descriptions. It makes you wonder how many of these great repro patterns are floating around out there, limited-release products of small guilds and regional museums. Though my list is full for a while...lots of UFOs and a wedding quilt to make!...this one is definitely being penciled in. Or at least, my version of it.
Oh, and one last thing. I'll be rendezvousing with Molly in NYC in ten days or so while she's in the U.S. on business. Any suggestions for something we should consider in the city this month, quilty or not? We'd hate to miss something interesting because we hadn't heard about it. Thanks!
*** Added later: For those of you who have inquired, Kathie just let me know that the quilt pattern is still available from the Grand Rapids Museum for $10.00. Their contact information is on their website.
OMG is all I can say i want to grow up and be like these quilters!!!!!
ok in NY you should go see the star exhibit at the AFAM at Lincoln Center, the quilt exhibit at the City Quilter and let me check out a few other things, will get back to you.
do you want to leave the city? will she be working days?
Kathie
Posted by: kathie | October 12, 2011 at 07:11 PM
I'm still ooooohing and aaaaahing over those quilts--amazing! Lucky you to have the pattern (and skill) to make one too! Enjoyed your drives too!
Posted by: Donna | October 12, 2011 at 07:57 PM
You must walk the HighLine!
And you must call me to meet you when you do!!!
Posted by: blackbird | October 12, 2011 at 08:22 PM
Gorgeous, amazing quilts!! It's fun to study how each one is a little different. The basket quilt is wonderful - what a fun project to do with friends. Like Kathie - I want to grow up and be like these quilters too :0)
Posted by: Janet | October 12, 2011 at 09:30 PM
The pineapple quilts are beauties! So interesting. I am quite attracted to pineapple designs of all kinds so have great interest in this. I hope to see one of your making some day in the future. I dream of making something similar myself.
Posted by: Karen Beigh | October 12, 2011 at 09:31 PM
I got so caught up in the beauty of the pineapple quilts that I forgot to mention that I was born in the Akron area and lived there until I was in my later 20's. In all that time, I never visited Hale Farm. I have been by it several times.
And a question. Was the pineapple quilt block a pattern drawn by the group members or a purchased pattern?
Posted by: Karen Beigh | October 12, 2011 at 09:33 PM
GASP! The Pineapple Quilt is just magnificent! I am SO jealous that you are going to make it...WOW! Soooo looking forward to seeing your progress on it!
Posted by: Vicki | October 12, 2011 at 09:35 PM
I'm sure you'll be glad when all of the repairs/fix it list are done? It does feel like you're spinning your wheels, but omce done, you can sit back and enjoy things later.
It takes some time to get used to a new area. You're learning all of the "scenic routes"? It's a beautiful area and I'm glad you took the time to stop and snap some pics...and share them.
The Pineapple quilts are absolutely stunning! Lucky you..to have your hands on a copy of the pattern.
I don't have any recommendations for you and Molly..just wanted to say enjoy your precious time together. :)
Posted by: Ann Champion | October 12, 2011 at 10:11 PM
I LOVE that basket quilt! Didn't you have a small basket quilt here on your blog not too long ago? I'd love to just have a pile of those little baskets to work on here and there -- you know, a several year project. I can't wait to see more from your tribe -- what a group of ladies.
I hope you have a wonderful time in NYC. I SO miss my monthly trips there. I'm drawing a blank for places not to miss -- Liesl at Distressed used to have a good guide for shopping in NYC on her blog.
Posted by: Thimbleanna | October 12, 2011 at 11:14 PM
Wow those pineapples are to DIE for!
I would love to get my hands on a pattern. Look forward to seeing your progress (eventually)!
Posted by: Kate | October 13, 2011 at 04:53 AM
Thanks so much for sharing the amazing quilts. They really are stunners. I love the tiny hst in the pineapples.
Posted by: Janet | October 13, 2011 at 05:42 AM
Stunning quilts!!!
Those pineapple quilts are wonderful. I love how each quilter made little changes to make the quilt her own.
Posted by: Miriam | October 13, 2011 at 05:56 AM
wow! amazing quilts. woohoo re trip to NY and Molly!
Posted by: Tonya Ricucci | October 13, 2011 at 08:03 AM
Hi!
I've always loved that one of Sheila's. Mine is quite smaller and different and I'll definitely post it soon - in fact I've used that pattern twice and I'll show both.
The countryside looks gorgeous there!!
I have the complete pattern for that pineapple quilt and have always planned to make it.....one day.
great post!
Posted by: barb | October 13, 2011 at 11:35 AM
Wow! What talent and determination to make these fabulous quilts. They are such a labor of love. It is just amazing to me that more than one person decided to make the pineapple. I would think about it, but it would only get made in my mind!
It looks beautiful where you live. I am a life-long Midwesterner, and love all seasons.
Posted by: Jan S. | October 13, 2011 at 12:50 PM
These quilts are amazing. I kinda get the urge to make a tiny basket quilt now. The pineapple is amazing.
Posted by: Marisa | October 13, 2011 at 01:20 PM
I grew up in Akron (I've been in Texas 26yrs now) but I loved Hale Farm and took my kids there on a trip home one sumer. Thanks for the pic!!
Posted by: peggy | October 13, 2011 at 05:57 PM
Wow, wow, wow to those pineapples.......
Posted by: Susie | October 13, 2011 at 10:07 PM
The countryside is beautiful. And those quilts are amazing! I love to see how quilts are personalized. The different borders and fabrics really change the look.
We've been considering just moving down the street and it feels overwhelming! I don't know how you do it. Maybe it gets easier with every move? Hope you settle into a routine soon. And I'm glad to see you popping up in my feed reader again. :)
Posted by: Anita | October 14, 2011 at 12:05 AM
I have fallen in love with the Pineapple & Roses quilts, both ladies that made their own version are to be congratulated. Absolutely splendid!
Also very fond of the basket quilt, a great way to get some variety by swapping basket blocks.
Your photos of your area that you live in are so beautiful, I wouldn't mind getting 'lost' in your area.
Posted by: Jenny McH | October 14, 2011 at 06:24 AM
I moved to Akron a few years ago and have not been to Hale Farm yet. I have ridden by there on my bike on Riverview Road.
Who did your foundation crack repair? I have a leak in my foundation that needs fix so I would love to know if you were happy with the repair and who did it. Thanks.
Posted by: patty | October 14, 2011 at 11:57 AM
I've never seen pineapples like those -- they are wonderful!
Posted by: Kristin L | October 14, 2011 at 03:29 PM
Really enjoyed the different versions of the pineapple quilts - just amazing! Glad you are getting settled in your new home, despite all the work that had to be done. Hope you have a fine time with your daughter!
Posted by: Dixie | October 16, 2011 at 04:29 AM
Hi Jan,
Love the applique quilt. Glad to see you back and writing and sharing a glimpse of your new heighbourhood. Thanks for stopping by my blog! I am still so new with it but having fun!
Posted by: Barb Robson | October 20, 2011 at 02:51 PM
Hello Jan,
Still trying to understand how this works. Miss you at the Abby,we are all still quilting. Your new home is beautiful,and now you will bloom where you are planted. Enjoy your new digs, and let us know How the wedding went. Hugs,Karen Dirmish
Posted by: Karen Dirmish | April 14, 2012 at 02:32 PM
Hi Jan,
May I please borrow your photos of Sheila's basket quilt to post on my blog?
Thanks, Diane
Posted by: Diane | May 14, 2012 at 08:50 AM