Q & A with Avis Shirer of Joined at the Hip
How would you spend an ideal day?
Have breakfast on the patio, then go visit my two adorable grandchildren for an hour or two. Next on my list would be to have a pedicure, followed by lunch with my girlfriends or my daughter, and then I’d fill the remainder of the day with shopping. That would be heaven!
What’s your life (or work) philosophy?
When I began quilting years ago, I was caught up in perfection. I had a favorite homespun plaid that I was using in a particular project. I'd only bought a quarter yard of it and had it laid out to use every piece. I was busy working on my project—cutting the squares and rectangles—and to my dismay discovered that I had actually cut into a large appliquéd block! I was so upset—not a bit of leftover fabric. After a good cry and really getting mad at myself, I decided to salvage the block by stitching a patch over the mistake. The patch was a large appliquéd pumpkin, as well as a 1" x 5" background rectangle. It turned out to be charming, and from that day forward, I learned to relax about quilting and life in general.
How do you unwind?
That’s something I need to work on and do more of. I am a workaholic. My husband usually is the one who drags me out of the house, otherwise I'd work seven days a week. I guess I've learned to appreciate the rides on the back of the Harley because I can't bind a quilt or sketch another design. I can only appreciate the beauty of the countryside. I'm forced to sit back and relax.
What’s on your IPod?
I just got an Ipod last winter and listen to it when I clean or walk on the treadmill. My daughter had to help me with it, but now, I love it. I enjoy cranking the volume up...and often help Joe Nichols or Toby Keith when they need back up.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to marry the boy next door, raise pigs, and be a farmers wife with five kids. Hmm....I wound up marrying a guy who lived in town, dislikes pigs because they smell too much, and we only had one child, a wonderful daughter. But, in the end, I can see that all of my dreams did come true! I've got an amazing husband and an amazing life. I wouldn't change a thing, even if I could hit rewind on my life!
What’s a talent you don’t possess but wish you did?
I wish I knew how to fix computers! And, wish I knew more about them.
When did you learn to sew?
My mom didn’t sew, but my Grandma Tillie had six boys and she loved to sew. She was so happy to have me, a girl, who liked to do the things she liked to do. So she taught me to sew.
What’s your least and most favorite part of quilting?
Sewing on the binding is the one thing I hate. If I could find someone to do it for me, I’d be tickled. But I just love drawing out appliqué shapes and choosing the colors I’m going to use. It’s just so much fun.
Tell us something that would surprise people to know about you.
I enjoy watching Gunsmoke. I got volume one and two of the 50th anniversary for Christmas. Love it!!!
More to check out:
Green Pinwheels
Four-Square Pillow
Dotty Stars |
