It was 2 years ago that I did a post on the wonderful 'Born to Quilt' edition of the Magic Patch magazine. (Was it really that long ago?)
The patterns and projects were created by Veronique Requena who very kindly sent me the materials and pattern to complete one of the projects in the magazine.
It has taken me almost 2 years to attempt the penny rug but two weeks ago I started it and today I finished it (apart from additional embellishments and backing fabric). I thoroughly enjoyed making this although at times I cursed the cutting out. It was all sewn by hand and I can't wait to start on another sewing project!
Edited: Just to let you know that the 'Penny Rug' isn't actually a rug but it is a large doiley sized table decoration/table mat. It is called a penny rug because of the 'pennies' that are sewn on the tabs surrounding the mat.
This was our street's first party on Sunday. I think arrangements are already being made for the second! The purpose of the party was to get to know the people who live in the street. There was a couple I had never seen before and they live two doors away and they had lived their for two years!
Everyone made such an effort to ensure that the event was a success. Music was played, giant Jenga and games for the children, Sangria and plenty of drinks for all, food in abundance and too many beautifully decorated cakes to count!
Whilst the adults chatted and ate delicious home made food, the children played in driveways and cycled and played in the roads for the first time ever as the road was closed to traffic. 
Heavy rain was forecast but even the sun came out to play! It was such a civilised event and there wasn't any arguments or animosity. Everybody helped to tidy up and by 10.00pm you wouldn't even know such an event had taken place.
We invited the local police to attend in case we had unwelcome gatecrashers but our fears were unfounded. I don't think they wanted to leave, but as they were tucking into second helpings of chocolate cake a helicopter hovered overhead. Looking skyward they gathered their apparel and made a hasty retreat!
