A Prize and a Surprise

A week or so ago I found out that I won a terrific prize in the Quilts of Valor Blog Hop.  I won an Aurifil thread pack.  Specifically it is the Mark Lipinski Basics Aurifil Thread Collection.  I was thrilled when I read this on Marjorie's post.   These are the BIG spools of Aurifil 50 weight thread.  I can do a lot of piecing with that.  When I got the package it was a surprise again.  I opened it and found this:

Yes, not only is it great thread, but it is in a wonderful case for storage too.  But then I opened the case:

Twelve different colors of neutrals.  How cool is that?  They are also individually wrapped.  I confess I rearranged them in the case.  I had to handle and admire them all.

Then yesterday I had a surprise visit at work from the lady who used to work in the cubicle next to the one I was in.  She also taught the paper piecing class that I took that got me started quilting. (and the only class on quilting I have taken!)
She came in with a little paper bag and said "I brought you something."   I started looking at the bag and reading it.  (yes I am a bit strange -ha ha)  She immediately started apologizing for the bag. "Oh, don't pay any attention to the bag, I just grabbed something. "
Not likely!   You see the bag had "Little Boy Blue" on it. You know, that good old nursery rhyme.  I had to explain why I looked at it so intently. "I love the bag.  The very first book I remember owning was "Little Boy Blue and other Nursery Rhymes.  So the bag itself is a sweet reminder."  But then I had to look inside the bag.   I pulled out the something and looked at it askance.

Finally the light bulb went on.  "Oh, it is a pin cushion!"   The "pins" in it are PC Sitters.  (Pin cushion sitters) You don't use them; they just sit there and make your pin cushion look pretty.

the picture doesn't really show it, but the fabric is a brocade satin.  The bottom is a candle votive.  It was heavy which is why I didn't "get it" right away.  I was just thrilled to get this sweet handmade gift.  I will probably use it instead of just letting it sit and look pretty.  

I have this theory that you should use your "good stuff" - the good china, the crystal glasses etc.   You see, one time I bought this expensive outfit that looked great on me.  It was a perfect fit right off the rack.  I think I wore it twice because I was saving it for something special.   I know you won't be surprised to find out that something special came along and it didn't fit anymore.  I had gained weight. So now, I use the good stuff. After all, I am worth it, and so are you,  my dear friend -and don't forget it. 

PS, that means use the stuff in your stash you are "saving" -  you are worthy of using it NOW.  There will be more amazing fabric.  I promise!