Guatemala Recap

If you have not been following me on any social media this post is for YOU!

I've been in Guatemala for 9 days and here is a little recap, mostly about the beautiful textiles.

The first 2 days we relaxed after an overnight flight. We prepped for our week ahead and had some downtime for doing touristy things

 We visited a women's weaver's guild in San Juan La Laguna! Fair trade and really helps these women and their families. 

In this same town we visited a small chocolate shop. 

Very quilt-like! Hanging as a wall in a street shop.

Central Park located near our hotel.

Quetzaltenango Central Park marks the heart of Quetzaltenango’s Centro Histórico (Historic Center). Originally two gardens designed by Italian architect Alberto Porta, the park was redesigned by Guatemalan architect Rafael Pérez in 1938.

16th century cathedral in the center. 

We were there for a procession. My photos look very unreal. 

Heading to the after school program Faith Seeds started by my friend Gaby. I was surprised to see this volcano spewing just about every day.

I got the tool, what can I do to help?

Part of Faith Seeds is ministering to families that work/recycle at the local dump (which is huge!)

We were preparing bags with bread and juice to hand out. 

It was heart wrenching, but Faith Seeds is trying to help families get their kids to school so they do not have to work at the dump. The woman in the center (gray shirt) works at the after school program- this is her family. It was her first time delivering to the dump. We hope and pray other workers can see it is possible to leave this life behind and get out of the dump.

The women bring their kids to the after school program and wait 1-2 hours for them to finish classes. Many of them walk a long ways to get there so choose to wait. 

It is a safe haven for them as well .

The kids get a meal at the end of class. They all have a tupperware type container that they can take home leftovers. At least this ensures they get one meal a day. 

We did a few home visits and I spotted this in one of the homes. 

The owner of that treadle machine. I wonder if they think about my size when we hug? lol

It was an incredible trip. Very fulfilling and rewarding. 

Love seeing the beautiful bright traditional clothing as well!

I know there are so many wonderful causes. Tomorrow is "giving Tuesday" and if you'd like to help this non profit by sponsoring a child or with a one time donation, I'd be thrilled!

You can reach their website HERE.

Have a great week friends.

 

Cusco Textiles

I'll be immersed in textiles while in Cusco! Super excited!

Here's a glimpse/

Check it out HERE if you'd like.

I look forward to sharing My photos with you when I return. 

I hope all is well.

Maine Mills

This cool old mill was in Brunswick, Maine. Inside was a huge antique mall! 

I did see this yo-yo quilt. 

Is this the side you show? I've never made one and never really thought about it.

I love the fabric (including that army green blanket color!) in this log cabin. 

This was 3D with velvet clothing and lace! It was different, in a charming sort of way!

I love textiles and wish I would have purchased this patriotic little outfit. 

We are on a bridge over the Androscoggin River. I think I mentioned before we didn't get off the beaten path much because of the snow. 

Our view from the bridge. 

I love seeing these old mills revitalized!

 

Downtown Dover. 

Dover, Maine

I'm in Idaho mid week and I thought you'd like to see a little more of Maine.  It is such a pretty state with so much history. 

I hope your week is going great!

Antique Quilts and Textiles

Here are a few quilts and clothing from our stops at antique stores in Virginia. 

This was one of the favorites that got away! The seller wouldn't budge on the price. 

What a fun folk art style eagle!

This was at the VA quilt museum shop. 

What's not to love about double pink and poison green?!

I'll be home today and have no plans to go anywhere for awhile! 

Have an amazing weekend friends!

 

Inspiration from Quilter Laurie

Let me introduce you....

This is Laurie B. I met her when she emailed me a couple of years ago and told me she read my blog and would be a vendor at the Coburg Quilt Show.  (I've gone twice) She sells vintage tops, quilts and lots of sewing items.  She also lives a short ways from where I stay in N. Seattle. She invited me to her house to see her collection.  The photo above was taken in La Conner where we went to dinner. 

Isn't this eye catching? Laurie has a special knack for decorating with her vintage and antique finds.

Some of Laurie's antique and new doll/small quilts. 

Look at those quilts! They didn't stay folded up for long. 

I think I ran out of descriptive words for all the quilts I saw!!

Laurie's sweet husband built her the sewing studio and Laurie has worked her magic here too.

Isn't that creative what she did with the door fronts? 

I could have taken a lot more photos. I'll leave you with a little more inspiration.

These little hst finish about 1/2". A whole quilt of them! 

More inspiration to come!