Monday, June 2, 2014

Fabric Giveaway - Welcome to llinois

 
Welcome to the Illinois leg of the American Made Brand Blog Tour. I'm Kathy and I'll be your tour guide today. Using the American Made Brand fabric, here's the  block I designed to represent my state -

 
Our vehicle license plates say Land of Lincoln. You can see that my block incorporates President Lincoln, log cabins, prairie points, violets (state flower) and the Chicago skyline -  some of my favorite things!
 
 

 
I had a lot of fun making this,  playing around with all the different colors and then adding little details that represent my state. (That's the Chicago skyline embroidered on the top.) I'll show you how I made the block on Thursday when I announce the winners of the fabric giveaway.

*  *  *  To win a fat quarter bundle of some gorgeous, colorful American made fabric of your own, just post a comment and tell me which is YOUR favorite state to visit (other than the one you live in) and why you love it. Leave me an e-mail address so I can contact you if you win.
          

 
I was born and raised in Illinois. Chicago, to be exact. So you'll have to forgive me if I appear biased. Illinois gets some pretty bad press, what with the high crime and unemployment rates, not to mention the weather. Despite it's reputation for political corruption, "gangsters" and high taxes, it's actually a great place to live. I'm not kidding.  I'm still here so it can't be all that bad, can it? About 70% of Illinois residents live in or near the Chicago area. While Chicago may be considered the "Second City" by some,  to many of us living here it's the greatest city and we wouldn't trade it for any other. If you're traveling this summer and are lucky enough to be able to drop in for a visit, here are a few things that may interest you in Chicago and other parts of the state.

Illinois is the called The Prairie State (hence my prairie points on the block). It's also called the Land of Lincoln and has quite a few attractions revolving around the 16thPresident.

If you love Lincoln history, you need to visit the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. 
                              
 
Or, you might want to walk in Lincoln's footsteps at the Lincoln Home Natural Historic Sites, a four-block neighborhood restored to the way it was in the 1860s and includes his actual home. There's also New Salem, a recreated pioneer village where you can see where Lincoln spent part of his adulthood. Period re-enactors are on hand for demonstrations, and you can even participate in activities from that era.
 
 
However, if you're coming to Illinois for even a short time, you have to see Chicago. It's a very nice city. Our Chicago museums are some of the finest museums around. Most of them border the shores of Chicago's fabulous Lake Michigan.
 
The Art Institute of Chicago  (scroll down and read my recent blog post from last week on this one).  
 
                         
 
The Field Museum   - Dinosaurs! Mammoths! Mastodons! We visited so often my son practically lived here as a child.
 
                    
 
The Museum of Science and Industry  Make sure you see Colleen Moore's Fairy Castle doll house.
 
 
The Shedd Aquarium has a wonderful aquatic show with dolphins, whales and sea lions.
 
                        
The Adler Planetarium has one terrific sky show.
 
 
 
Of course, you'll also want to visit downtown Chicago, Navy Pier and the Children's Museum, Millenium Park, ride the elevator up to the observation decks at the top of either the Hancock building or Willis (Sears) Tower to get some great views of the city, visit Michigan Avenue and Water Tower Place on the Magnificient Mile for shopping and dining, take in a show at The Second City comedy club, schedule a shoreline cruise or a drive down LSD - Lake Shore Drive - for some scenic views.
 
 


 
 
 We have a couple of nice zoos (if you happen to like zoos.)
 
 
 
Ride a fantastic Ferris Wheel on the lakefront. Did you know that the very first Ferris Wheel debuted in June 1893 at the Chicago World’s Fair?
 
Check out the heart and soul of Chicago by visiting its diverse ethnic and historical neighborhoods.
 
 
You may want to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in nearby Oak Park. Did you know that Prairie Style architecture has its roots in Chicago? I'm going on a walking tour this summer.
 
 
 
Also, make sure you try some Chicago-style deep-dish pizza before you leave.
  
There's so much to do here, it's almost impossible to tell it all. There are a few attractions I've never seen but I'm hoping to take care of that this summer. We live a few miles outside the city but I drive in often and feel lucky to be able to take advantage of all that Chicago has to offer. Sure, it's noisy and busy and traffic is always a pain but, afterwards, I get to go home to my quiet space and my little colonial in the (boring) suburbs where I can chill. I love the excitement and energy the city has to offer but I also love my home away from the city. Living in both worlds suits me just fine. Illinois - a nice place to visit and a great place to live.

 
Don't forget  - in order to be a winner in this giveaway - you have to post a comment telling me your favorite state aside from the one you live in now. If you live outside the states, just make something up, LOL. Make sure you leave me an e-mail address so I can contact you if you win. There will be 2 winners. I'll also be giving away a smaller bundle with some of the fabric I have left over from making my block. Winners will be picked after comments close on Wednesday night. I'll announce them on Thursday. That's when I'll show you how I made my block. Good luck to all of you! And don't forget to follow along the Blog Tour to see all the other fantastic state blocks and chances to win even more fabric.
 
 
 

276 comments:

1 – 200 of 276   Newer›   Newest»
Carla Finley said...

I'm from IL too but live in FL for 16 years. I would have to say I want to visit IL and OK because my family is there. dollartistcarla at aol dot com

Gloria said...

I don't live in the U.S but I have visited often and have just counted that we have visited at least 15 different States.
Which to choose as my favourite? A difficult decision but I think it would have to be Virginia as that is the State we know best. Though New Hampshire comes a close second. Then there is California, too.....

Charlotte said...

I live in CA now. We moved here 12 years ago to be closer to our children and to escape Illinois' weather.

I love to visit Illinois because my siblings still live there. Also, they have some great quilt shops.

Charlotte
kurtschindler111@gmail.com

Kellie from Indiana said...

I worked in Chicago a few years and of course having grown up so close, visited all the attractions. But as an adult I much prefer the country in Southern Illinois. It is actually beautiful and you dont realize youre in Illinois at all. Here we absolutely love to visit Kentucky, and want to move there in the next few years. We love the hills, caves and even just how GREEN everything can get. Plus living in the Chicagoland area, we just want to get away from all of the congestion, and live a slower pace of life. Your block is very creative, I believe its the best!

BarefootThunder said...

I would have to say Massachusetts. That is where my Momma is !!!

Anonymous said...

Raised in Colorado, transplanted to Washington, and have visited 30 other states. My favorite state to visit is Wyoming primarily because of Yellowstone National Park.

Anonymous said...

Illinois looks wonderful! I love the historical parts of states more than the modern parts! My fav state to visit..I'd have to choose Texas. Lived there off and on around the state...lot of history there!
Cheri
quiltingnanny at yahoo dot com
www.fabricandmemories.blogspot.com

sue bennett said...

I have to say that I would love to come and really visit Illinois. I was married there at Chanute Air Force Base in 1975. We never made it to Chicago. So one day Charlie and I are going to make it back there and visit the state. Great license plate.

suebennett1975@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I love visiting Florida during the winter months. (A brief respite from Illinois winters.) However, I do love my home here in central Illinois - on a farm - just north of Springfield. I feel blessed to be exactly where I am!! :)

Charlotte
cawhlr64@gmail.com

Tanya Quilts in CO said...

California has to be my favorite to visit and get my beach time in!

Lisa England said...

My current favorite state to visit is Louisiana because that's where my son lives.

Mary said...

I am in California and love to go to Nebraska where I grew up. I have lots of family back there including my son and daughter in law and two granddaughters. There is no place like Nebraska! Thank you for the chance to win.

Mary

NRoot said...

Illinois the state of my beginnings, I was born in a small town just south of St Louis MO on the Illinois side called Red Bud. (quaint little town)I have lived in 10 states and visited over 3 times as many states. Overall the Midwest, Missouri and Illinois, especially are my favorite. I really love your license plate it says a lot about Illinois. Thank you for the opportunity to win fabric.


nroot at lycos dot com

Anonymous said...

Kathy,
Your license plate is exceptional! It shows so much thought and hard work- congratulations! I love it. I haven't had the chance to travel much but I do love Virginia- mostly because I have been to Williamsburg a few times and just love the museums. However, I would love to come to Illinois, especially since you discussed the Thorne Rooms. I would really enjoy them. Thank you!
Peg F. in NJ
kneedeep09@gmail.com

Julie S said...

I love southwestern Minnesota the most! It is so beautiful with its rolling hills, grazing cattle, flourishing fields of corn, stirring breezes...

I have been to the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum; it was fabulous and I highly recommend it!!!

Quilting in the South said...

I grew up in the Midwest and have enjoyed several times visiting family in Illinois or sight seeing in downtown Chicago. And yes, we love Chicago style pizza.

Carmen y Prady said...

Cuando estuve en Estados Unidos, no pude ver Chicago, y me hubiera gustado muchisimo. Mi padre vivio en Chicago 2 años y siempre tenemos un gran recuerdo de lo que nos contaba.
Precioso reportaje.
Un beso desde España.
Prady

Quilting Babcia said...

I currently live in Oregon but my favorite state to visit is New York (upstate) because that's where ALL my grandbabies live! We do get to fly into Chicago O'Hare every time we head back to NY for a visit though. Someday I'd love to visit the Lincoln properties.

Jocelyn said...

Living in flat Florida I love the mountains of North Georgia and North Carolina. A refreshing change from the tropics. Thanks for the tour of your city. My daughter worked in Chicago for 4 years, so I had an opportunity to visit her on several occasions.

Jennifer said...

Hawaii! I just love the islands. Your license plate block is wonderful and the tour of the museum the other day was so fun. Thanks for the chance!

Allison said...

I used to live in Alton, IL and loved it! I'd love to go back and visit sometime. My favorite state to visit is Colorado.

Paula said...

I love Chicago and all it has to offer but my favorite state is Arizona. I love going there every winter. I live in WI.

Allison said...

Florida used to be my favorite place to visit, but now that I live here, I love going back to visit New York! Pennsylvania (Philadelphia to be exact) is my second choice.
allisonpogany@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I live in beautiful California but I love to visit Hawaii!! Your block is gorgeous Kathy, well done!! Carolyn Barnett csbbobbin@yahoo.com

Cindy said...

I like to visit CA because I have family there. The kids like the beach and amusement parks!
quiltingpansy @ yahoo.com

Amy said...

I live in Virginia and love to travel. Right now my favorite state to visit is Washington. My son just moved to Seattle. It is beautiful there. Lots of cool museums, fun history, gorgeous hiking. I have been to the Eastern part of the state on a business trip and would love to go back.

quiltgrannie said...

Kathy, you did an awesome job representing our state. I love the block you made, you really put a lot of thought into it and it shows. I like to visit WI.
There are some great quilt shops there.
meandyou1974@sbcglobal.net

Unknown said...

While I have never lived in Illinois I have spent the last 30 years visiting the state, mainly the city of Chicago and the suburbs. I love driving the rural areas also.........lots to see and do in Illinois. Great plate!

bee said...

i don't know if i have a favorite state - i've enjoyed all of the ones I've been to. but i do love Virginia as I have lots of friends there.

graysongal said...

Favorite place to visit is Montana--glorious scenery of the Rockies and Big Sky country, history, and family ties. Thank you for the very nice tour. And your block is wonderful. lauriesroberts (at) gmail (dot) com

Kim @ TiesThatBindQuilting said...

My husband and I honeymooned to Alaska and it was simply gorgeous! I'd love to go back again!

Cynthia Brunz Designs said...

I love to visit the state of Washington as it means I'm heading to visit my niece and nephew. Plus it is a beautiful state!

Carole Y. said...

Hi,
I live in Canada, but I love to visit the Vermont State, for the mountains, scenery, flowers and quilt festival. I went to Stowe a couple of times during the summer and I loved it.

cyeon at videotron dot ca

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

Wyoming - we love the states many parks and the mountains

Unknown said...

My favorite state is probably Georgia because I love to visit Savannah due to the squares, history, flowers and food. Colorado is a close 2nd though because of the hiking in RMNP.

Glenda said...

I love to visit Tennessee because of the beautiful Smoky Mts. They have always been a place of renewal and healing through out my life.

MissPat said...

Live in western NY and enjoy visiting Florida to get away from the winter weather and to spend time with friends and family who live there.
Your license plate is wonderful, very creative.

Kathleen C said...

I'm excited about the American Made Brand fabrics; the colors look great.
I'm in CT, and RI is my favorite state to visit. I lived there in the 70s and 80s A neighbor taught me how to do patchwork and hand quilting; we're still close friends and share our quilting together.
Thanks for the tour of Chicago, a place I've never yet seen.

Anonymous said...

GREETINGS FROM MONTANA! My 2nd favorite state is Idaho! Thanks for sharing a great giveaway!
Happy Summer!

msstitcher1214@gmail.com

Claire said...

I live in Oregon but my favorite state to visit is Washington. Hiking in the Cascades or the Olympics is about as good as it gets.

cbooth said...

I would have to say California because we get to visit family.

Brenda said...

I live in KY and I love Colorado and Maine! I love the Rockies, Dunes and cayons in Colorado. In Maine I love the smell of the fir trees, the water,the lighthouses and the food!

lindamid said...

I live in Colorado, but Hawaii is the place I would like to visit. Love the ocean. Just entirely different than the beautiful Colorado scenery

Marianne said...

I have many fond memories of summers in Maine. I used to spend it with a friend and her family in while I was in HS many years ago.

sklinn62 said...

I Love Texas!

patty a. said...

I live in Ohio, but I loved visiting Del Mar, California and will go back someday. I have fond memories of Illinois. As a kid I lived in Northern Indiana and the nuns use to take us on field trips to Chicago to the museums and Lincoln zoo. I had flown in Springfield for work about 14 years ago and had time to stop and see where Lincoln was entombed.

Joan said...

My favourite state is Maine. It is a beautiful state, but the most important reason is because my grandchildren live there. Thank you for the chance to win.

Ann in PA said...

I fell in love with Alaska. We just spent 12 days hiking & exploring our 49th state -drove the Seward Hwy., Day Cruise Resurrection Bay & Kenai Peninsula, North to Talkeetna, flight to Mt. Mckinley, fishing tour on Susitna, bus tour in Denali National Park & Alaska Railroad back to Anchorage. There is so much to see & do in the good ole USA. Love your license plate! Great giveaway of American Made Brand fabric.

Anonymous said...

I live in Canada and my favorite state is Idaho because my grandparents lived there. Thanks!

Jacky said...

I really liked Santa Barbara, California when I stayed there. I have never been to Chicago, but the museums look fab! Oh, I am in the UK!
www.thequietstitcher.com

Margaret said...

I lived in Rockford Illinois for about 40 years before we moved to Arkansas. I love to visit South Carolina and go to Charleston. There is so much history there too.

els said...

When I was much younger I studied for two years In New London, New Hampshire. Coming from the Netherlands, this state fascinated me: the mountains, the pretty white churches, the unbelievable colors of the trees in autumn, the friendly people, the fresh air. Later on I visited different states, but NH is the most prettiest of all!

Penny from S.C. said...

I live in SC but my favorite state to visit is NC. I was born there, my family is still there, and I love the beach and mountains of NC. Thanks

Diantha said...

I live in VT, but my favorite state to visit is Maine - because of the ocean, and also we have relatives there.
Thanks for the informative post about Illinois! (and the cute way you incorporated various aspects in your license plate)

Shelley said...

I love visiting the lush green State of Vermont! The mountains, the old barns, the little quaint villages..and I would love to try out the new American Made Fabrics!

Charlotta said...

My favorite state to visit is Georgia, because I lived there for 30 years and I love going back to see so many dear friends, plus I get to go on quilt retreats there twice a year with my guild from Atlanta. I really learned to quilt as a member of that guild and the other talented members are my teachers, mentors, cheerleaders, advisors, inspiration, and friends.

Unknown said...

I love visiting Montana

Unknown said...

Tennessee. Dollywood, Elvis' home, The Grand Ole Opry, The Mountains, and QUILT Stores.....

Paula

paulacox7198@gmail.com

Bonnie said...

I live in IL but I've been to Florida and I loved it.

Cocoplum said...

Hi, love your quilt block, especially the way you incorporated the log cabin pattern (so appropriate)! We live in Florida, but love to visit Georgia (the nearest mountains we have). Thanks for the giveaway. info {at} cocoplumbeachhouse {dot} com.

Barb Neiwert said...

Oregon is my favorite - it's GREEN! And it has the most incredible ocean shoreline imaginable. Not too good for swimming 'cuz the water is always too cold. But fantastic beaches for walking and walking and walking. And whale watching. Love it!

Barb Neiwert said...

Oregon is my favorite - it's GREEN! And it has the most incredible ocean shoreline imaginable. Not too good for swimming 'cuz the water is always too cold. But fantastic beaches for walking and walking and walking. And whale watching. Love it!

barbara woods said...

Tennesse, because of the Smokies, i am from Georgia, thanks

Unknown said...

I lived in Canada for years, and now am in England... but I loved Vermont so much... and New York!

But I have to say that your post made me wish I could pay a trip to Chicago right now with family!!!!

Thank you for the visit... It was very very enjoyable!

Jill said...

I am not sure that I have a favorite state to visit. I haven't been to all of them to pick a favorite. I certainly like going someplace south in the winter and Maine is lovely in the summer. Love your block!

audrey said...

Love to visit Oregon and travel the gorgeous coastline! Your block is wonderful!

Betty Woodlee said...

I live in Kentucky but love to visit Texas because my granddaughter lives there. I've been to Illinois many times, but never had the opportunity to visit Chicago. Maybe that will be in my future.

KMSC said...

I was born and raised in Oregon but my second favorite state is Washington. My daughter and SIL live there!
k(dot)castanette(at)Hotmail(dot)com

Rachell said...

I was born here in Utah and raised here almost my whole life. My parents have now lived in the Seattle, Washington area longer than anywhere else in their marriage. I don't claim Washington, but I sure like to visit. It's too dark and rainy to live year round for me. But it's gorgeous, nice temps, lots of things to do and see, indoors and out.
Thanks! reillyr2(at)hotmail(dot)com

Sandra said...

I lived in Texas, but one of my favorite states is Colorado! It is beautiful, clean and the dry climate is wonderful. A great place to ski and hike. Thanks for offering a giveaway! thehampton7@aol.com

Anonymous said...

I was born and raised in Illinois, outside of Chicago. Of the states I have visited to date, I think Maine was my favorite. Loved the hiking, the views, the seafood. It was a great summer. Thanks for the chance. dragonfly9716 at yahoo dot com

Vicki H said...

I live in Kansas and love visiting Minnesota to visit family and enjoy many of the 10,000 lakes. Northern MN is the best.

Cecilia said...

I've never visited Illinois, but it sounds like a great state to visit. You did a great job on your license plate, it looks wonderful! I live in Georgia and my favorite state to visit is Tennessee. I love the rolling hills and mountains.

DebraKay Neiman said...

Greetings from Oklahoma, USA. I love to visit Colorado Rocky Mountains. crystalbluern at onlineok dot com

Simply Sandy said...

I love so many states it is hard to decide which one other than mine is my favorite. I guess I would choose Tennessee, it is absolutely beautiful!

Trish said...

I love your block and I can't wait for the tutorial! My favorite state to visit is Nevada, because I love Las Vegas :)

cityquilter grace said...

it would be pennsylvania, esp lancaster area....feels so serene there

Diane H said...

Great block, Kathleen. Thanks for all the info on your state. I would love to live in Maine.

Cynthia said...

Mine is Kentucky...basically because that is where Hancock's is and I love their store! I just got my first set of AMB fabric and am loving it!

Kathleen said...

Living in WI.,I like having IL. as our neighboring state as I don't live far from the stateline.One of my goal is to go to Oak Park and visit the Wright buildings.

Rilene said...

It looks like Illinois has a lot to offer - I`ll have to go there some day. My favorite state to visit has been Wyoming. I love camping in the wide open spaces.

Stoney said...

I love to visit Washington, the state, because I have sisters there. I live in Wisconsin, so the trip is long.
Thanks for the giveaway. Your block is very original.

spirit dot in dot stoney at gmail dot com

gab said...

I love to go where my family is: Illinois and Texas. they always find neat places to go and things to do.

cynthia said...

My favorite state would be Maine because it's one of the few I've never been to, and those summers there seem wonderful compared to hot Texas where I live.

Sunnybec said...

I don't live in the USA but would love to visit Hawaii.... one day maybe my dream will come true. Thanks for the chance.

Quilting Tangent said...

Live in New York, like Vermont. 24Tangent "at" gmail "dot" com

Anonymous said...

My favourite State would be the one with the most quilt shops. I am Canadian and have had the pleasure of visiting Florida twice. I would love to visit Pennsylvania.

Christine Gibbons

yulece1957@yahoo.ca

Deborah said...

I am originally from MA and live in TX but WA state is one of my favorites. Seattle is my husbands home town, it is full of culture, things to do, the water and has a small town feel even though it is a large city.

Kathryn said...

I love to visit California. I love the national parks and the great coastline.

JANET said...

I was born in Illinois, Decatur to be exact. We moved to California when I was 8. I like CA better, I think, as I remember the humid summers in IL when I was little. I'm sure there are a lot of good things in IL, I just remember the humidity.

Granny's Button Box said...

Hello
I've only been to USA once to Florida which was great. I would like to live in Montana because I love to ride and there are lots of horses with wide open country but only in the Summer as I don't like the cold!
Regards
Sharon

JoyceLM said...

I've been living in NC for over 40 years, but my favorite state to visit is my birth state Maryland. Love soft shell crabs, Baltimore's Inner Harbor area, mountains in the west, and I still have family living there. Thanks

Janarama said...

My favorite state to visit would be Tennessee, eastern TN because of the mountains which are beautiful. I'm in Illinois, grew up in the far southeast side of Chicago in the East Side neighborhood which is 5 blocks from the Indiana border. I'm now living about 50 miles west of Chicago. Another great attraction in Illinois is Starved Rock State Park.

Donna W said...

My favorite state to visit is Illinois. I originally hail from Illinois, but have lived in Wisconsin for the last 35 years. Illinois has so many places to go visit, such great food, and, of course, friends and family.

Saskia Smit said...

Penn state. I was only once in the states but loved the country and friendly people.

Susan C said...

I live in SC and my favorite state to visit is NC because it's close enough for a day trip but also enticing enough to stay for a week or more. We especially enjoy the mountains for a cool respite from our hot summers. But my very favorite reason to visit NC is to go shopping at MaryJo's cloth shop in Gastonia, NC,

Miss Jean said...

I love to visit IL. That's where the grands live.

Becky (My Fabric Obsession) said...

I love to visit FL because that is where my family lives. But for fun, I love visiting CA (for the food and wine) and NJ because it's so close with it's beaches! :) beckmoyer at gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I live in Colorado now and have lived here since my husband retired from the Air Force. I once lived in Illinois as we were stationed there for many years. So much culture and history! I had to leave so many wonderful friends there. So many fond memories of Illinois. So..I guess you could say I love both! Go348@msn.com

Annmarie said...

Great tour of Illinois - your block is cool. I've visited Chicago several times and love that there is so much to do there. BUT my favorite state to visit is the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I live in northern Wisconsin so we get up to a cabin on Lk Superior many times each summer - walking the beach is the best!

Donna Keating said...

Northern New Mexico calls me over and over. Beautiful, clear light, the mountains, local art, clean air. Heaven!

teachpany said...

I live in PA, but grew up on Long Island, NY. There's something wonderful in all the states I've been to, from Maine to Fla on the coast, and Ohio and Indiana. I would love to go to Hawaii, and Texas and plan to drive to Colorado this summer to visit a niece. Thanks for all the Ill info!

Marti Taylor said...

As a Michigander I am a frequent visitor to Illinois, specifically Chicago. So much family fun to be had there. Of the states I've visited, not just driven through, Illinois and South Carolina are my favorite!

Renée Welton said...

My son attended school in Wheaton, we loved to come and visit him. Chicago is a great city! My favorite state is Tennessee. I love the Smoky Mountains and traveling there each fall. The color is beautiful! Thank you for this opportunity to win some fabric.
Renee in Michigan. Rcwliberty@gmail.com

khowardquilts said...

It is hard to pick a state outside the one I live in. I'll say Pennsylvania, even though I have only been there once.

Kay said...

Love, love love your block! I enjoying visiting Florida - my sister and most of her children live there! Not to mention I went to college there and I love the beach!

Lee said...

Hello from Michigan! I really love NY - the city and upstate - so pretty and lots to do there! I really love your block. thank you!

Sarah or Semmy said...

If I had to leave my state for another, I would chose The Great Smokey Mountains on the Tennessee side.

Michele T said...

I have to be truthful here, first of all I have not travelled very much in the US so this blog hop has been very interesting because I am learning soooo much!! With that said, I would choose Vermont for the beautiful countryside!! Thanks for the chance!

K Weather said...

I love to visit Utah. it is close to the mountains and has many national parks.
kweather78@aol.com

nancy n. said...

I live in California but my favorite state is Illinois. I was born there. My Mom and Dad met at Wrigley Field. So the Cubs have always been a big part of our lives. ( even if they stink.)

GeniP said...

I like visiting Florida because the weather is so nice. Would love to visit Illinois sometime before I get too old to travel.

Cindy said...

I love Wisconsin. As a child we would go to Wisconsin Dells and the atmosphere was always a "fun" kids world. Beautiful countryside and it is also where my dad and grandparents grew up. Cindy
bellemarie58@comcast.net

Betsy said...

I live in Florida but I did study one year in Blackburn college in carlinville Illinois and that was actually my favorite place to live

Barb Whitehead said...

I love to visit Illinois for all the attractions you mentioned. Besides it is home! I was born in Chicago and grew up in the north suburbs. Kathy I loved your accounting of your home system. Barb Whitehead. Email: barb.whitehead@roadrunner.com

Unknown said...

I grew up in Lansing, llinois and worked in Riverdale until April of this year. We've moved to Indiana, but I think you covered all the great places to visit in Illinois.

free2bee said...

I live in Oklhaoma, but Alaska if my favorite state. LOVED living there and would go back in a heart beat...

Mary said...

Of the states I've visited, I most like to go back to Washington because it beautiful and quite different from here in the Midwest.

Cathy Something said...

I moved to North Carolina from just outside Chicago in December! My favorite state to visit--I would have to say Tennessee because I love to visit family and friends there.
romanczukc@yahoo.com

earth visitor said...

Iowa here -mused to live in Il. - love your block - so pretty

Edna Kidd said...

I live in WV, but my favorite to visit is FL, because my family lives there...
dollsem1@frontier.com

Zoanna said...

What a lovely, informative, and persuasive post about your beloved home state. i've been through Illinois but really want to go for some great sight seeing. Lincoln was the best!

I would love to visit Kansas again. Spent my two best childhood years there and have a best friend and a few relatives left there.

Donna said...

I live in Florida; however spent most of my life in Mississippi. My favorite state to visit is North Carolina. I love the mountains!

Gale said...

I live in Illinois and love Chicago too. But I love Vermont and love visiting the Vermont Quilt Festival.

Rosa said...

Live in Spain and have been in New York!

Samplings from Spring Creek said...

Whew lots of great states, and Tennessee is one of them! There are the Great Smokey Mountains, Nashville home of country music, Memphis home of Elvis Presley, the blues and some of the best barbecue. Great history--Davy Crockett, Sam Houston, Andrew Jackson, Dolly Parton! There are also some awesome quilt shops, quilters, and quilts

Anonymous said...

I am going to exclude my current state of residence (MS) and my birth / home state (IL), so that leaves my favorite state to visit: Colorado. Love the scenery: Mountains, Pike's Peak, Royal Gorge, Grand Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Leadville, various Train Rides through the mountains and valleys, awesome lightning shows at altitude,..... Donna H; bjinkymom at yahoo dot com

Jo said...

I am from Connect but live in Oregon aside from going home to visit which makes CT my favorite state to visit I would say I like to visit Montana there are so many small relaxing towns to see there I always come home revived from a trip to Montana

carla said...

Hi!!!! Great block!!! Love the log cabin!!! Of the states that I have visited I would say Florida because that is the only beach and ocean I have seen!!!! Loved the ocean!!!

wendy said...

Love this plate! I'm from Michigan, my favorite state to visit {so far] would be Tennessee because I love the Smokey Mountains.

Jane S. said...

I live in Oregon but my next favorite state would be Washington. Mostly because it's a lot like Oregon. Washington does have Seattle though, and that's a definite plus. I love the Emerald City! :)

Joanna said...

I like to visit Rhode Island because it's right next door to my home state Massachusetts and my sister and her family live there. I've never been to Illinois but hope to visit one day.

Carolyn Boutilier said...

I live in Virginia but love Vermont in the fall with the most beautiful foliage. Your IL block is fantastic.
Carolyn B

Carol in Mesquite said...

I live in Nevada, moved here from California. I think my favotite state to visit is Utha with so many national parks and awesome scenery. Nevef visited Illinois but maybe some day. Love your blick. Very creative.

jen said...

I love to visit any NEW state I've never been to. :) Second, I guess, would be a state with the ocean, probably on the West coast - CA, OR and WA all tie. jeniferorama AT gmail.com

CyndyK said...

I think my favorite state is Texas. I lived there 25 years and my grown kids still live there, so I visit as often as possible! Cynthia cknapp3626@sbcglobal.net

scottylover said...

I love visiting Illinois especially Chicago because two of my quilting buddies live there. Whenever we get together it is a fun quilty time!

Sandy A

A Virginia Quilter said...

Hello,

My favorite state is Colorado. It's one of the most clean that I've been through - and the mountains are a sight to see!

My name is carmen and my email address is cmullinsva@gmail.com

Thank you for having this contest.

JayTee said...

I love New York state with its variety of attractions from mountains, Niagara Falls, cities and open spaces.

Deborah said...

Our favourite state to visit is northern Idaho (my husband's home).

Allison C said...

I love Vegas cause there is so much to do, but I can't say much about the rest of Nevada. Im sure there are other really nice sites there, but for now I'm drawn to all the pretty lights and entertainment.

Deb said...

Live in VA...love to visit SC where my sister lives OR Michigan where my grandson lives.

Emily C said...

I love Washington. Much milder weather than Pennsylvania and I loved being near the Puget Sound.

Margaret said...

I am a native Californian but I lived in Colorado for 3 years in my late 20s, so that is the state I love to visit -- to see my old friends and enjoy the mountains.

OneOldGoat said...

I love to visit Maine! My kids and I would go camping during the summer on Hermit Island....that's when we fell in love with the state.

Beth

oneoldgoat1962 at gmail dot com

Sarah said...

My favorite state is Maine! We go there as many summers as we can for vacation. Thanks for the giveaway! sarah@forrussia.org

Nana Crystal said...

I found it! (Thanks to Kathy's help...LOL) I'm Crystal G. from Washington state but my favorite state is Colorado! I love the weather and the people there. I also love Kathy's block and all the neat attractions about her home state. Hopefully one day I'll be able to visit.

emails: nanas.gifts.and.goodies@gmail.com OR princess_crystals_creations@yahoo.com

Jill Hicks said...

I love to visit Wisconsin to see grandchildren. I love your license plate. Very clever.

sharonlorenesews said...

Greetings from Upstate NY. My favorite state to visit is South Carolina. Our family vacation to Myrtle Beach was wonderful. Thanks for sharing the awesome pictures...Following this blogs make me want to hit the road and travel the states. Thanks. Sharon Lagace ronsha01@nycap.rr.com

DebrafromMD said...

I love to visit Alaska.

Carla said...

My favorite state to visit is the one(s) where I go to visit my grandchildren! Right now it is Ohio, Missori, and Alabama; which could change depending on where the Army and Air Force send them next.

Teresa said...

I would love to visit Hawaii. I enjoyed visiting museums in Chicago! It is the Windy City.. I was surprised about the breeze through the streets!
tsvande@gmail.com

Sewgirl said...

I love to visit Hawaii, although I enjoy a lot of the east coast states as well, Maine, New York, Florida. I love the warm weather in the summer and the beaches!

Candice said...

Kathleen, LOVE your license plate! It certainly portrays Illinois! Nice job! And thanks so much for all the touring info. I do love the pizza and also the jazz!

OhioLori said...

Your block is Beautiful! Love it!

I'm from Ohio.... We got to visit New Hampshire 2 years ago...and I am Totally Smitten!! GORGEOUS there in the Fall!!! Spent week with our sweet Daughter & her Awesome Husband...can't wait to go again!

Nyla said...

I live in Texas but I love to visit California. The weather is so lovely and there are a few National Parks where we love to go. Also get to visit a beloved sister and mother in law. Throw in the beach, fresh strawberry fields and great quilt shops, what's not to like!

Cherry said...

I live in Illinois too. My favorite state to visit is Michigan - cool pine tree forests and a great lakefront.

Anita said...

I live in Massachusetts. My favorite state to visit is New Hampshire where my husband grew up.

WhoMom said...

I live in WA state but love to visit So CA where my bestie lives. It looks like there are many wonderful things to see in Illinois and your plate is wonderful.

Winona said...

I have not done much traveling, but I did enjoy visiting Arkansas a few years ago. It is pretty down there. I am from northern Missouri.

Heidi [Banks of Frog Creek] said...

Glacier National park in Montana is gorgeous!!!!! Love visiting there

Barbara said...

You can take the girl out of Illinois but you can't take Illinois out of the girl. I grew up in Illinois so that's my favorite state.

Barbara in MD
Stash Overflow

Debbie Rogowski said...

Oklahoma is now my favorite state to visit. My two daughters and their families have moved there and we have so much fun touring and new adventures. And I love the 'road to Oklahoma' block and the Oil man block

Cindy said...

I visited Arizona several years ago, and I really liked the atmosphere of Tuscon, the weather, and all the different historic sites we saw. I would love to go back and spend a lot more time there sometime.

Unknown said...

There are so many wonderful states to visit. Because I am from Wisconsin, I love to visit SoCal in the winter. Hands down, the best winter weather.

Joyful Quilter said...

My favorite state is Oregon. Green forests, lots of lakes and rivers, great coastline and some really nice quilt stores...with no sales tax!

Unknown said...

My favorite state to visit would be Hawaii because my daughter lives there! Other than that, I love visiting any state I haven't been to yet just to see more of our wondrous country!

Jules said...

My favorite state to visit is Tennessee! It has Nashville, Chattanooga and the smoky mountains and is a bit of the southern home that I'm missing. Thanks for the opportunity to win!

Karen said...

I have had great times in Oregon and Vermont. The states are nice, but what made the visits great were my hosts. Hosting a visitor is such a skill and I have been blessed with several excellent hosts--family and friends. Thank you.

Regina Marie said...

Beautiful blog about Illinois! My favorite state to visit is Ohio, cause all my brothers and sisters are there. Am so blessed!

annie said...

I would love to go to Chicago and see Everything, and visit Chicago Ron and go metal detecting with him on the beaches! (dream on), but IO also now am wanting some of that pizza and hoping for a real life sight seeing trip. Love visiting North Carolina most of all, the best vacations I have ever had were in that lovely state! I hope I win! (grin)

Unknown said...

I love to visit California, I live in Texas and CA like Texas is vast and has a abundance of things to see and do. I am ready for my next trip.

Unknown said...

I had a lot of fun on holiday in Florida and New York when I was a teenager. I would love to go back to New York as an adult!

eveningemma at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

My favourite state is WV. It's so beautiful!

Karen said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Karen said...

Kathleen, your block is beautiful. You did such a wonderful job designing the layout. I live in Washington State and have been fortunate enough to have been to several states since my childhood. Arizona comes to mind as a special state for my husband and I because our daughter lived there for three years. We have wonderful memories of visiting her there. But if I had to pick a favorite place it would have to be the Oregon Coast. I love being by the water and walking the beach.

Karen said...

Kathleen, I just posted my comment and forgot to add my email: kasedlak42@comcast.net

Mary Marcotte said...

Love your creative plate. Very smart to add prairie points that way. I'm from Louisiana and can't choose a favorite just yet I haven't visited all 50 but hope to do just that!

Susan said...

Hi Kathy,
I LOVE your block! You incorporated so many wonderful things about your state! And your description of your state really makes me want to come visit. I don't think I've ever been to Illinois before but I LOVE living history so I would love to go to the Lincoln Home Historical Site. I live in GA but my favorite state to visit is probably Virginia because of the many historical sites there. Thanks for the chance to win some made in the USA fabric!

Unknown said...

I now live outside the USA, but you made me so nostalgic for Chicago. It's everything you said. We lived there for 5 1/2 years. I also like Northeast, PA

Quilting Kim said...

My favorite state to visit is South Carolina. I just love the old world southern charm, even though I am a Yankee from Delaware.

Kathy, you did a wonderful tourist attraction for Illinois and I love your creativity in creating your license plate block.

Unknown said...

I was born and raised in Florida but my most favorite place to visit is Tennessee. I love the change in the seasons and the country music! mburnette912@bellsouth.net

Tina Marie said...

I live in Canada, but would love to go to Maine. In pictures, it looks so beautiful. Illinois looks like a great place, too.

Tina Marie
tmforjc (at) gmail (dot) com

kmcallister said...

I live in Virginia but guess my next favorite State would be Tennessee-it has all the same things as Virginia, rolling mountains, huge farm land, etc. and it reminds me of home.

Quilter Kim said...

I would have to say my favorite state to visit is ILLINOIS! I was born & raised in the Chicago area and moved to Door County WI in my 20's but still love going back to Illinois. All of the places you mentioned bring back good memories.

Julie said...

I love to visit AZ in the Spring and Fall.

ruthshelton10@att.net said...

My favorite state to visit Michigan because I was born and raised there. I love the beauty of the lakes, forests. Many fond memories were created there.

slrquilts said...

We live in Pennsylvania but love the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.

Carolyn said...

Oregon is my favorite state to visit. I really like the Willamette Valley area all the way to the coast.

Karen said...

I live in Florida but my grandkids live in NC, so that's my favorite state to visit :).

Chiska said...

My favorite state to visit is Alaska. I love it party because I grew up there and party because my folks are still there. There's always so much to see and do. Lots of hiking, playing at the beach and just being home.

herky907 said...

I live in Iowa but I love visiting Wisconsin. Love the forests, hills, rivers, biking, quilt shops!, Door County, Spring Green, etc. hawkbmjp@mchsi.com

Deborah fromValparaiso said...

I live in Indiana but work in the Loop - so I too have the best of both worlds. My favorite state to visit is NH - because I love the history, being a leaf peeper and the quilt shops. I also love sending Lou Malnatti's to my hosts because they really don't have good deep dish pizza there! dakuchta@comcast.net

Donna said...

Love your license plate and the wonderful info about Chicago! I've been to some of those attractions. I currently live in Virginia, but my favorite state in Mississippi. We lived there years ago and there is so much I love about it - ok, not the heat OR the bugs - but I love the culture, the food, the beautiful Gulf Coast, the diversity of the different areas, and most of all, the people!

Anonymous said...


My favorite state is North Carolina because of the beautiful mountains there.
I really enjoyed your picture tour of Chicago-I have only been there for one quick weekend trip.
You have a great blog!
gailholland@bellsouth.net

Tdsvintagelife said...

I love the state of Maine it is so beautiful and I love the coast line. Your tour did a great job of selling Illinois Chicago has been on our bucket list for several years now. Tdsvintagelife@gmail.com

Sewing Sue said...

Living just north of the Illinois/Wisconsin border makes Illinois the state I've visited most. I love the buzz of downtown Chicago, I've been to the Vogue Fabric Stores a lot, and my favorite thing is the Museum of Science and Industry. My mom lived in Peoria for a number of years and the middle of the state is lovely. Don't forget northeast Illinois and Galena, former home of Ulysses Grant, that's lovely too!

thepiececorps said...

Great job on your plate! I would love to visit the last 13 states I haven't visited, but if I had to pick one I have been to it would be Washington - especially western Washington! B-)

Maureeneh said...

I am from Ontario, Canada, but this summer we are driving to the west coast via the States and coming home through Canada. We will visit quite a few of the Northern States and are really looking forward to it.

Tricia said...

My state would have to be PA. i left my heart there after being there for 5 years. I learned to quilt there. I learned the meanings of True Love & Heartbreaking Loss. I learned so many things there, that I have wondered if I should have left there. Someday I'm sure I'll go back to find the pieces of myself that I left there again.

Tricia of Mid-MI.

quercus0828 at yahoo dot com

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