Anatomy of a custom quilt order

E-mail correspondence from beginning to end of the Costa Rica Reflection Quilt
Click Here to view photos.

PS: My wife said if this turns out she wants a King Size of our trip to Hawaii.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reply: June 12, 2007

Hello Bruce,

Thank you for contacting me. I will be very happy to create a twin size "Surfing Trip" quilt for you.
How many pictures would you like on the quilt and what size? 3x5, 5x7 or 8x10?

Yes, a Cheetah fabric hem would be very striking with your photos and dark blue denim squares.
Perhaps you would like a dark blue micro fleece backing? Let me know.

Approximate cost breakdown:

$ 150.00 ................................Labor of Love (Twin)
   125.00.................................Photos (Ten 8x10 photos @ $12.50 each)
    15.00..................................Blanket for middle of quilt
    35.00..................................Backing Fabric
    10.00..................................Ocelot Fabric for hem
    20.00..................................Shipping
$ 355.00        Approx. Total

I would love to create this 'Reflection Quilt' for you and I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,
Joy www.joyscountryquilts.com

P.S. I would truly enjoy creating your king size "Hawaii Trip" reflection quilt.
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Customer's e-mail - June 17, 2007

Hi Joy,

OK, I am thinking of different size pictures like 5x7s stepped in from the edges and 8x10s in the middle. So I guess
maybe 8ea at 5x7 and then 4ea at 8x10. Is that workable?

I was also thinking of the center piece of the quilt being an embroidered dark blue denim square (or rectangle) with
turqoise thread that says "Costa Rica 2007" perhaps tilted in the square. Can you do that and is that an extra cost?

I am thinking Cheetah for the border but I am also thinking a little wider hem like maybe 3 inches. Is that doable and
is it extra?

The fleece backing I am thinking should be dark brown. The same color as the border on your Cheetah Quilt posted
on your site.

I am fine with the price breakdown but I don't understand the "blanket for middle of quilt" line. What is this item?

Sincerely,

Bruce
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My Reply - June l8, 2007

Hello Bruce,

Yes, your pictures in the sizes you want and where you want them placed will be fine, and the
dark blue denim square (or rectangle) with turquoise thread and wording will be very striking.

     What type of fabric would you like to use in and around the pictures? Something with a forest
look? Or bamboo?   Refer back to my website to view the “Special Orders” with a red “MPQ”.
These all have a theme, i.e. “Texas Queen”, “Native Horses” and “ Lab Retrievers”.
    www.joyscountryquilts.com      I will be happy to shop online for your fabric and will send you
several to choose from.

     A three inch hem using the cheetah fabric, and a dark brown fleece backing will give the quilt a
very nice look and feel.

     The “blanket for middle of quilt” is what I use instead of batting. My hand-tied quilts never bunch
up after laundering.

Updated Cost Breakdown:

$ 150.00……………….Labor of Love (Twin)
    50.00………………..(4) 8x10 photos
    64.00………………..(8) 5x7 photos
    12.50………………..Costa Rica - 2007
    15.00………………..Blanket for middle of quilt
    35.00………………..Fabric for quilt top
    20.00………………..Ocelot hem fabric
    35.00………………..Fleece Backing
    20.00………………..Shipping
$ 401.50   Total

I look forward to your next e-mail. I will be thrilled to create your “Reflection Costa Rica Quilt”.

Sincerely,
Joy
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Customer's e-mail - June 20, 2007

Hi Joy,

I went to your link and looked at the Lab Retrievers quilt and was blown away. I did not see that one before. It gave me some
ideas. I really like the busy pattern of the dogs fabric. I was thinking about using a rain forest effect fabric and maybe throw in
a couple of tree frogs. You see a lot of that in Costa Rica. The rain forest fabric should be leafy is what I am thinking to create
the busy effect I liked in the Lab Retrievers quilt.

I was also thinking the small strips running between the rectangles should be an Ocelot fabric. If you can get all the spots to
follow the line of the strip but maybe a bit wider like 1- 1/2 inches. What do you think?

I am wondering now if Blue Denim would work with my quilt. And I think I would want to have the fleece backing be forest green.

The cost adjustment for my previous email is fine. Now I just have to decide what I want. Please begin as soon as you can.
I can't wait to see it.

Do you need a deposit?

Sincerely,

Bruce
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My Reply - June 21, 2007

Hello Bruce,

Thank you for choosing me to create your "Reflection Costa Rica Quilt". I have added your quilt to my list of
"Quilts To Create".

    I will begin shopping for rain forest and tree frogs fabrics. Will e-mail you what I find and you can let me know
if I am on the right track of what you have in mind.   I feel using the ocelot fabric as a frame for each of your surfing
photos will be very pretty. Forest Green fleece backing is perfect. We can just wait and decide on having Blue Denim
in the quilt at a later time.

    You can send me your snapshots and/or digital photos together with a $200.00 deposit so that I can have the photos
transferred onto fabric and order the fabrics you choose for your quilt. We will then be on our way to creating a very
unique Reflection Quilt. I will let you know when I receive your photos and deposit.

Thank you again,
Joy www.joyscountryquilts.com-
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Customer's e-mails: June 22, 2007

Here are my pics. I am sending a ck Monday. This is going to be fun.
Bruce

Customer's reply to my fabrics e-mail: June 22, 2007

Yes you are on the right track................ Boy that was fast too...........
The 1st one looks really close to what I was thinking but I wish it was a little toned down.

My reply: I agree. I am still looking and will send more. We will find just the right fabric.
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E-Mail to my customer - July 5, 2007

Hello Bruce,

      I received your $200.00 deposit and Thank You note today. I appreciate your confidence in my steering you
in the right direction so that the end result will be a most awesome quilt.   Thank You.
      I will now have your 21 photos transferred onto fabric.

      Finding a rain forest themed fabric with tree frogs is more difficult than I anticipated.   But am still searching
for just the right fabric.   Will send more for you to view soon.

Sincerely,
Joy
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July 16, 2007

Customer's reply to my sending him iron on tree frogs. Click here to view tree frogs and fabrics.

I really like the tree frog iron ons. They are exactly what I invisioned. I kind of like this leaf pattern and color but
with the iron on frogs. I'm trying to decide if I really want the cat fabric as a border. It might be too much.
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The creation of this "Costa Rica Reflection Quilt" will begin first part of next year as I do not have enough time
to complete it this year.

Thank you for visiting.

Your Happy Quilter - Joy Wostal
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Jan. 4, 2008

Hello Bruce,
Hope this finds you doing well in the New Year.
    I am sending you a lay-out of one of your pictures trimmed with ocelot fabric,
and one of the frogs, on a fabric I found while Christmas shopping.
    Let me know if you like this or want to shop for another rainforest fabric.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,   Joy
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Jan. 6, 2008

Dear Joy,

I absolutely Love It !!!! The fabric is perfect with the frogs. The only thing I do not like is the white around the photo.
Can you crop the photo so there is no white showing?

I can't wait to see more. I am getting very excited after seeing this layout. The trip was awesome and I am sure after
seeing this display that the quilt will be awesome too.

Thank you,
Bruce

Jan. 6, 2008 - My Reply

Great! Will do another lay-out. Click here to view new fabric.
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Jan. 7, 2008

Yes Bruce,
You have a very good idea of what you want. It is much better without the white.
Let me know if you agree to this lay-out.
I am excited about starting your Costa Rica Reflection quilt.
Sincerely,
Joy
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Jan. 8, 2008

Wow............

I am really seeing extreme potential there...........

I just had a thought looking at this with more pictures laying out. Can you do it just like it is? I mean "Leave" the
"Leafs" continuous. Just cut holes in the leaf fabric so that the pattern is not interrupted. The border can finish out
with the Ocelot. And then the "Tree Frogs" can be random as if the pictures are suspended in a Costa Rica Rain Forest.
Can you show me what I am describing? I really would like to see a larger layout with more pictures and maybe the
border as I am imagining it. I am really getting excited.

Thank You,

Bruce

My Reply:    Yes, Bruce,   I can leave the fabric continuous and applique the pictures onto the fabric.
                        I will do a complete lay-out with all of the photos and a border within the next few days.
                    Sincerely,   Joy
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Jan. 9, 2008

Hello Bruce,

Here is lay-out II. The white edge on all of the photos will be folded in when I applique each photo onto the
fabric. I had no idea how you wanted the photos arranged so I just randomly laid them this way and that way.

Can you find all 8 frogs? Let me know if we are nearing what you have in mind for your 'special' quilt.

The designing of a quilt is the exciting part and it takes time but we will get it just right before I do any
cutting or sewing.

Sincerely, Joy Click here to view Lay-Outs

Jan. 11, 2008

I like the Ocelot strip in the border. The pictures seem a little too hectic. I am thinking maybe keep them horizontal
but not in columns or rows. And try a border with Ocelot next to the Rain Forest with a wider Green strip and finish
the edge with Ocelot. And maybe put a border or 2 around the pictures? Can you try that for me?

Thank You,
Bruce

Jan. 15, 2008

Hi Bruce,
   Here are two lay-outs. Let me know if I am getting close to what you are looking for.
Photo I: I used several different colors for borders around the photos and added a yellow strip down the green side strip.
Photo II: Shows a few photos framed with the ocelot fabric and a small strip of brown in between the side strips of ocelot.

Sincerely, Joy Click here to view two lay-outs
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Jan. 20, 2008

I received a telephone call from my customer letting me know he is a little behind in getting back with
me due to a big push, and a lot of overtime, at his job. He will get back to me as soon as he can.
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Feb. 22, 2008

Hi Joy,

I finally had some time to really think about this and I believe I have a final decision on the layout. After looking at the
different picture orientations I really like the busy pattern after all. You know the 1st one you sent me. Sorry I made you
go through all that. But it really helped me. The twin Ocelot border with the brown center strip is very nice for the Border.
I like the stepped widths just like you show it with the wider Ocelot strip on the outer edge, slightly smaller brown strip in
the center and the thinner Ocelot strip against the rainforest fabric. I like the color of the small rusty brown swatch for the
brown center strip. What is that fabric? It looks rich. Is it soft?

And definitely border all the photos with the Ocelot. Probably the same width as the inner border. And the tree frogs..........
Just let it happen.

I also want to find a small Costa Rica Flag to throw in there somewhere. And I have a coaster emblem of a beer that is
brewed there. I will send it to you. It's heavy rubber but I thought maybe you could have the image transferred on fabric
so it could be sewed on the quilt somewhere.

I also have an idea to embroider the words: "Costa Rica 2007 - Pura Vida" across the top center of the quilt on the rusty
brown border strip. I think maybe in a burnt orange thread. And with that said I was thinking of adding several other names
around the border of the different surf spots we went to. Here are the names:

Salsa Brava, Manzanillo, Jah Handers, Cocles, Playa Hermosa, Roca Loca, Olly's Point, Roca Bruja, Tamarindo, Langosta,
Avellanes, Little Hawaii, Playa Negre.

I would like to do them in different colors alternating between Yellow, Green and orange. I know it will be extra but can
you do that?

I think that just about covers it. Let me know if you need anything else from me.

Thanks,

So good to hear from you Bruce. All of your ideas for your quilt are possible and very exciting. I will order the ocelot
fabric today and let you know when it comes in. I will also order a small Costa Rica flag. Yes, we can have the coaster
emblem transferred onto fabric for your quilt.

The brown center strip you see on the lay-out is a fleece fabric. The fleece fabric together with the ocelot fabric for
the quilt border will be very soft.

The embroidery of all the words you ask for will really add to your "Costa Rica Reflection Quilt". Your quilt will truly
be awesome and a
one-of-a-kind. I am very excited about creating it for you. I have quite a few orders I am working on at this time.
Do you have a completion date?

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Toll Free # 1-866-817-2980

Warmest Regards,
Joy Click here to view lay-outs
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Feb. 26, 2008

Dear Joy,

I really can't wait to get my quilt. I understand you are busy and I don't mind waiting. Good things come to those who
wait right?. As far as a completion date I guess ASAP is soon enough. lol. No really, whenever you can is soon enough.
I am just so excited now that it is all decided. But take your time. I am not in a rush. You did not tell me how much the
embroidered words will cost. Do you know? I am sending you the coaster tomorrow.

Thanks for all your doing. I am certain this quilt is going to blow me and my friends and family away. I never thought
I could do something like this. It's really exciting.

Thank you.

Thank you Bruce. When the ocelot fabric comes in I will be able to get started on trimming your photos and will
send you another lay-out for your approval.

The cost for the embroidery will be approximately $100.00 or less. My embroidery lady will do a sample for our
approval and give me a true cost. Transfer onto fabric of the Coaster will be $7.50.

We have one more item to decide on. Backing fabric for the quilt. If you live in a cold climate you may want to
have a nice soft fleece fabric. Perhaps in a forest green color. Other choices are cotton or flannel. Let me know.

Warmest Regards,
Joy
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Feb. 28, 2008

Dear Joy,

The cost of the embroidered names is worth it. I know it's a cost and I'm fine with the price. Just let me know the
end result. I was thinking about the font for the words. I have a font on my computer that is called Surfer. I like this
font. I attached a file I created with all the words in the size and font I was thinking about.

The coaster cost is fine too but I think I want 2 of them. Maybe in the corners diagonal from each other and turn
the top left one counter clockwise and the bottom right one clockwise a little bit.

The backing. I forgot about that. I think I would like the feel of cotton best. And the forest green is a good color for
me unless you can find a really dark aqua marine.

I can't wait to see the next layout with all of this.

Thanks,

I did not receive Bruce's attached file with the Surfer font. My computer showed a plain font. After discussing this
by phone Bruce said he would mail me a copy from his computer for me to take to my embroidery lady. I will get
back to Bruce with the embroidered sample and we will continue with this "Awesome" quilt request.
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March 7, 2008

Dear Joy,

Guess what? I am going back to Costa Rica this April. I think I would like to put a hold on my quilt until I return.
I might get some better pictures that I may want to add or trade out. Plus I may add some names to the border.
I hope this is not an inconvenience to you. I will email you when I return.

Thanks,

Bruce
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March 8, 2008

Wonderful on your trip back to Costa Rica. Have a safe and good vacation. I have no problem waiting to continue
with your Costa Rica Reflection quilt. Your quilt will definitely be One-Of-A-Kind and will hold many 'special' memories.
We will pick up where we left off when you return.

Dear Joy,

My trip this year was very nice. We went to some new places and caught some very good surf. I want to add some
pictures to my quilt and I have attached a file.

I also want to add the following names to the border: Pavones, Dominical, and Matapalo.

I had an idea to crop a few of the pictures to make more room. I think when you get these new pictures on fabric
you can send me a photo of all the pictures cropped the way you think they should be so they fit. I know this will
cost more but I really want to add this years trip. So let me know.

I think you can have them printed in 5" x 7". And if you think smaller go ahead but I would rather crop a 5 x 7 to
get a bigger shot if you know what I mean.

Thanks for waiting. I am glad we did though. I can't wait to get started so email me as soon as you can.

Thanks,

Welcome Home! I'm sure your trips to Costa Rica have been fabulous. The pictures show that.

I am working on a quilt now for a June Birthday. Week after next I will be getting back to your "Special" Order.
I am very anxious to begin creating your "Costa Rica" Reflection Quilt. Your idea regarding the photos is excellent
and as soon as I have them transferred onto fabric and in hand I will send you a complete lay-out for your approval.

Just a note to let you know the lady who does my transfers and embroidery is on vacation until June 16, 2008. I am so
sorry for this delay but I know your 'special' quilt will be worth waiting for. You have some very good ideas about how
you want it designed and I am very honored you chose me to create your Costa Rica quilt.

Will get back with you soon and if you have any questions or suggestions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Hello Bruce,

I apologize for it taking so long to get back to you. My embroidery lady came back from vacation to find her mother
very ill and spent a week or so at the hospital.

Attached you will find photos of the three embroidery samples of the surfing spots' names in the colors you requested.
Let me know if you are pleased and which size letters you prefer to go around the edges of your Costa Rica Quilt.

Tomorrow I will begin sizing and laying out the photos for your approval. I'm not sure we can use all of them in a
twin size quilt. You may want two quilts :) I would not want to leave any of the photos out...they are all so good.

Looking forward to hearing from you, and again, I am sorry it took so long.

Sincerely,
Joy Click Here to view embroidery samples
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June 28, 208

Hi Joy.

I am ready when you are. Sooner is better for me (lol).

I LOVE the colors of the embroidery and how it looks on the fabric. But I envisioned the orientation of the letters
to be side by side and not stacked.

And, I don't think I want the letters zig-zagging at all. I really would like to see it in the font I printed it in.

Can the embroidery lady do that?

Can't wait......

Thanks,

Yes, Bruce, the colors you chose for the embroidery are very pretty. My embroidery lady made these samples more for the
colors for you to see, and also different font sizes. Attached are a few photos showing the different font sizes as they would
look on the quilt.

And, Yes, the embroidery lady can do the embroidery in the font you printed. She inadvertently did not do the bold
font I gave her. It will be done just as you want it, I promise.....

Also attached is a photo of all of the pictures we had transferred onto fabric for the quilt. There are many. I can trim
some of them so that we will have more room. I need you to tell me which ones. Perhaps by going back to the original
photos you sent me to be transferred you can send me the ones you want in the quilt and which ones I can trim.

I took it upon myself to trim back the one picture which I show on the font sizes photo. I can also make the ocelot trim
around the pictures just a tad more narrow and that will give us a little more room.

I am very excited about getting started on creating your 'special' quilt.

Sincerely,
Joy Click Here to view font size photos and all photos
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July 14, 2008

Dear Joy,

I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. I was called out to trouble shoot a job and left on the 29th. I will get
back with you on my Costa Rica quilt just as soon as I get back in.

Thank you for your patience,
Bruce
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Aug. 10, 2008

Hi Joy,

Sorry for the delay. Now I AM ready.

I have decided to trust you with the quilt from here on out. Every time I think of a different way I go back to the original
idea. Funny huh. I like the off set letters after all. Just the way they are on the border. Looks great. I do however want
"Costa Rica" in green and centered in the short edge (top). The rest is up to you. Crop the photos and place them random
with the frogs, flag, coaster, etc. If you don't mind send me a a few pictures as you are progressing along. It will be fun
to watch it coming together.

Aug. 11, 2008

I want to use the "names" in the size and font I 1st thought of. I was looking at them today and decided against the
off set letters.

I am making a map with the locations and colors coordinated. This will make it easy on the embroidery lady.

I would like to get a final cost established since I have added several items. And let me know if you need another
ck for materials.

Thank you so much Joy,

Aug. 13, 2008

Hello Bruce,

Good to hear from you. I am in the middle of creating a queen size quilt for a cancer patient....I should be getting back to your
Costa Rica Reflection quilt by Oct. 1. I am truly looking forward to working on your quilt....I feel it will be awesome.

Please send me your map with the locations and colors coordinated as soon as you can. My embroidery lady gets really busy in
the Fall.

It is difficult to give you a Final cost at this time because we haven't done the embroidery yet. The extra photo transfers from
your second surfing trip to Costa Rica was $60.00. The embroidery may run up to $100.00 or more. Your final cost may be $650.00
I will let you know about the embroidery cost and you can send me a check for that amount.

Hi Bruce,

I received your information for my embroidery lady today. I have ordered the brown fleece fabric for the lettering and when it
comes in next week I will take your map and locations and colors information to her.

I am now sizing the photo transfers and sewing the ocelot trim around each one. I am very excited about beginning your 'special'
Costa Rica Reflection quilt and will get back to you after I have gathered all I need for the quilt.

I'm sure you will want certain photos next to the surf site names so we will work on that after my embroidery lady completes the
embroidery.

Take Care and Have a Good Weekend,
Joy
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Sept. 25, 2008

Hello Bruce,

I have the ocelot trim sewn around all 27 photos. I then pinned the surfing location names on the brown fleece border and
found I had one left over...."Playa Negre" ?? (See attached photo)

Let me know............

Hi Joy,

Oops! Forgot about that one.

I think I want to add "Playa Negre" on the bottom. Just put it next to "Pavones" and even all 4 names up.

I can't wait to see the finished quilt. It's gonna be awesome I just know it.

Thanks for all of your effort. You are really a big help.

Can't wait to see the photo layout.

Very good Bruce. I will add "Playa Negre" on the bottom and take the project to my embroidery lady Monday. I will let you
know when she has it completed. I will lay out the photos for your approval and arrangement first part of next week.

We are on our way now. Yes, it will be a very 'special' reflection memory quilt.

Have a very nice weekend.
Joy
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Oct. 8, 2008

Hello Bruce,

I have all of the photos trimmed with the ocelot fabric and have attached a lay-out for your approval. Remember, the
ocelot trim will be half the size after I have appliqued all pictures to the quilt top so it won't be as crowded as it looks now.

My embroidery lady tells me she is very busy during football season but will get the embroidery done as soon as she can.

I apologize for it taking so long..... your quilt is a very extraordinary quilt and I feel will be worth the wait.

Let me know your thoughts on the lay-out. Can you find the frogs? Click Here to view Photo Lay-Out.
Joy
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Oct. 19, 2008

Hi Joy,

I am really getting excited now. Everything is looking absolutely great. The layout is perfect.

I can hardly wait.

Thanks, Bruce
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Oct. 21, 2008

Very good Bruce. As soon as the embroidery is completed I will send you a final lay-out for your approval and I will
then begin appliqueing the photos to the fabric. I too can hardly wait....

Sincerely, Joy
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Oct. 26, 2008

Joy,   Just a quick note.   I was called out to trouble shoot a job site last week.   I will get back with you as soon as I return.
Thank you very much for your patience.
          Sincerely,
           Bruce
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Jan. 18, 2009

Hi Joy,

Sorry I have been rather busy through the holidays and am just now getting back with you. I was revisiting the layout of
the photos recently and I have sent you a list of some key pictures and located them on the layout the way I would like
to see them. They relate to the embroidered names on the border. The remaining pictures can be placed in between
these and I don't really have a preference. If you have any other suggestions please let me know. Hope I'm not too late
in getting this to you.
Thanks,
Bruce
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Jan. 19, 2009

Hello Bruce,

    So good to hear from you.   Yes, I understand your layout of the key pictures and how you want them placed on the quilt.
I am very excited to have everything we need now for the creation of your "Reflection Costa Rica" quilt.   I will begin
appliqueing the transferred photos today and will keep you abreast of my progress.

    Sincerely, Joy
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Jan. 20, 2009

Hi Joy,

That is most excellent. I can hardly wait. It's funny how time flies by. Hope I did not cause you any grief.

Thanks again, Bruce
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Jan. 22, 2009

Hi Bruce,

I have had some quality time and have half of the photos sewn on. See attached photo. I hope it is correct.

Sincerely, Joy
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Jan. 23, 2009

It looks awesome............. keep going........can't wait to snuggle under it.....

...Bruce.................
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Jan. 24, 2009

Hello Bruce,

I need to know what kind of backing you would like for your "Costa Rica" quilt. Cotton, Flannel, or Fleece?
and what color? Let me know as soon as you can so I can place the order.

Thanks, Joy
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Jan. 27, 2009

Hi Joy,

I've given it a lot of thought and I think I want to go with a high thread count cotton backing. I really see "Jet Black"
working best. It will blend with the Ocelot border. I know it will show more lint but I just feel like that's what I want.
Is that available?

When do you think you will be done? I'm really getting pumped about seeing it finished. It may sound strange to you
but I feel like I am about to paddle out at a new surf spot for the first time....... very excited...... Hurry......lol

Thanks again,

Bruce, the jet black cotton backing will be very striking on your "Costa Rica" quilt. All colors will show something.
I will order it today.
I am very excited and should have it ready to ship to you for Valentine's Day.

Dear Bruce,
I am now hand-tying your very ‘Special’ Reflection Quilt. I found a perfect black soft cotton backing
on my shopping trip to the city this weekend.
I am truly enjoying each phase of this awesome quilt.

Total Cost:

$ 150.00………………………Labor of Love (Twin)
125.00………………………(10) 8x10 Photos @ $12.50
50.00………………………(5) 8x10’s @ $10.00

   102.00………………………(12) 5x7’s @ $8.50   (2^nd group of pics)
      8.00………………………Enlarged transfer of Costa Rica Beer Coaster
184.54………………………Embroidery of Names of Surf Sites
    15.00………………………Appliqued Frogs
       6.99………………………Costa Rica Flag
     15.00………………………Batting behind photos
     15.00………………………Blanket for Middle
     35.97………………………Forest Fabric
     35.37………………………Jaguar Fabric for Trim of Pics and Hem
     16.08………………………Brown Fleece Fabric for Embroidery of Names of Surf Sites
     35.47………………………Black Backing Fabric
     40.00………………………Shipping
$ 834.42
(-) 200.00    Deposit
$ 634.42

    I was wondering if you would like for me to create a small throw using the photos you chose not to use
in your quilt?
Let me know and I can send you a photo of the extra transferred photos.
    Sincerely,
         Joy
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Feb. 4, 2009

Hi Joy,

Boy I can't wait to see this quilt and to show it off. I have been talking to everyone I know about this for a long time
and they are as excited as I am to see it. They keep asking me about it. I am really looking forward to the day.

I don't think I am going to want a throw at this time but I bet my wife is going to want that reflection quilt of our Hawaii
trip after she sees this.

The cost is fine with me. It's hard to put a price on something this special. But as I have seen this unfolding I am quite
sure it's not enough for all of your hard work.

Thank you for all of your patience. You have been a pleasure to work with. Let me know when you ship it.

Thanks again,

Thank you Bruce for your kind words. Creating your Reflection of Costa Rica quilt is very enjoyable for me as I gaze
at the many different pictures you captured on your surfing trips. I can almost feel the excitement you experienced.

Your unique quilt will keep you cozy warm during the winter months as you dream of your next surfing trip.

I am almost finished with hand-tying and will begin hand-hemming tomorrow. Will let you know when I ship. Let
me know if the address on your $200 deposit check is the correct shipping address.

Hi Joy,

I will be sending the balance due this weekend. I am about to burst waiting to see the final product of your creation
for me. It is truly a feeling of total anticipation. I can't wait. Once again thank you for your hard work and patience.

Yes my address is the same and I will send you my address with my check just to confirm. Sure don't want to have
a shipping error at this point. lol

I will be eagerly awaiting your email telling me you have shipped.

Talk to you soon.

Sincerely,

Just a note Bruce.....I will be shipping your "Costa Rica" Reflection Quilt tomorrow via "Priority Mail", and I hope you
will like your very 'special' quilt. Received your check this day so I do have your correct address.

Hi Joy,

I can't believe it. It's really done.

Thank you for the heads up.

I will email you when I receive it.

Thanks again,

Feb. 15, 2009

Hi Joy,

All I can say is WOW !!!!! This quilt is so AWESOME !!!!!

What a Valentines present. You truly outdid yourself. I am so impressed at the detail. You know I have seen pictures of fabric and arrangements on the computer but to actually see it and feel it .......... words are hard to justify my satisfaction in your creation.
I am truly Blown Away.

Thank you so very much. I will be showing and telling everyone about you and your gifted talent. I never even heard of this kind
of work being done anywhere. I just happened to find you and now look what I have. This quilt turned out more awesome than
I ever imagined. Well worth the money for sure. I just sit and stare at it and WOW. Definitely a memory maker. You absolutely
surpassed my imagination. I can't wait to show my buddies.

I have taken some pictures for you to put on your site if you would like. I know you probably do that yourself.

Anyway, thank you so much again. You should feel very proud of yourself. You are a very gifted person and I am delighted to
have crossed paths with you. Good luck and may God be with you.

Sincerely,

Thank you Bruce for your sweet compliments......makes my quilting heart beat happy little beats and I am so very happy you
like your very 'special' quilt. I thoroughly enjoyed creating it for you. It is a very unique Reflection quilt.

I placed the photo you sent me on my website.....

Take Care and Happy Surfing.

Warmest Regards,
Joy Click here to view photos
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

E-mail correspondence from beginning to end of the Costa Rica Reflection Quilt Click Here to view photos. June 11, 2007 Hello Joy, I just spent an hour looking at your site. Terrific stuff. Very creative. I like your idea for a "Reflection Quilt". I recently took a surfing trip to Costa Rica and it was the most incredible vacation I ever had. I would like to preserve that memory somehow other than just a photo album. My pictures are great but I think a quilt with my pictures embedded on it would be awesome. Then I can sit on my couch and wrap my warm vacation around me. LOL I would like a single size (twin size?) My pictures are of tropical beach scenes, local wildlife and surfers on waves. I like the Ocelot and Cheetah fabrics on your "Special Orders" link but I also like the Dark Blue Denim look. Maybe a Cheetah border? but does cheetah go with dark blue? .......Help!!! Would you be so kind as to send me some ideas and an approximate cost. Sincerely, Bruce PS: My wife said if this turns out she wants a King Size of our trip to Hawaii. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reply: June 12, 2007 Hello Bruce, Thank you for contacting me. I will be very happy to create a twin size "Surfing Trip" quilt for you. How many pictures would you like on the quilt and what size? 3x5, 5x7 or 8x10? Yes, a Cheetah fabric hem would be very striking with your photos and dark blue denim squares. Perhaps you would like a dark blue micro fleece backing? Let me know. Approximate cost breakdown: $ 150.00 ................................Labor of Love (Twin) 125.00.................................Photos (Ten 8x10 photos @ $12.50 each) 15.00..................................Blanket for middle of quilt 35.00..................................Backing Fabric 10.00..................................Ocelot Fabric for hem 20.00..................................Shipping $ 355.00 Approx. Total I would love to create this 'Reflection Quilt' for you and I look forward to your reply. Sincerely, Joy www.joyscountryquilts.com P.S. I would truly enjoy creating your king size "Hawaii Trip" reflection quilt. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Customer's e-mail - June 17, 2007 Hi Joy, OK, I am thinking of different size pictures like 5x7s stepped in from the edges and 8x10s in the middle. So I guess maybe 8ea at 5x7 and then 4ea at 8x10. Is that workable? I was also thinking of the center piece of the quilt being an embroidered dark blue denim square (or rectangle) with turqoise thread that says "Costa Rica 2007" perhaps tilted in the square. Can you do that and is that an extra cost? I am thinking Cheetah for the border but I am also thinking a little wider hem like maybe 3 inches. Is that doable and is it extra? The fleece backing I am thinking should be dark brown. The same color as the border on your Cheetah Quilt posted on your site. I am fine with the price breakdown but I don't understand the "blanket for middle of quilt" line. What is this item? Sincerely, Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- My Reply - June l8, 2007 Hello Bruce, Yes, your pictures in the sizes you want and where you want them placed will be fine, and the dark blue denim square (or rectangle) with turquoise thread and wording will be very striking. What type of fabric would you like to use in and around the pictures? Something with a forest look? Or bamboo? Refer back to my website to view the “Special Orders” with a red “MPQ”. These all have a theme, i.e. “Texas Queen”, “Native Horses” and “ Lab Retrievers”. www.joyscountryquilts.com I will be happy to shop online for your fabric and will send you several to choose from. A three inch hem using the cheetah fabric, and a dark brown fleece backing will give the quilt a very nice look and feel. The “blanket for middle of quilt” is what I use instead of batting. My hand-tied quilts never bunch up after laundering. Updated Cost Breakdown: $ 150.00……………….Labor of Love (Twin) 50.00………………..(4) 8x10 photos 64.00………………..(8) 5x7 photos 12.50………………..Costa Rica - 2007 15.00………………..Blanket for middle of quilt 35.00………………..Fabric for quilt top 20.00………………..Ocelot hem fabric 35.00………………..Fleece Backing 20.00………………..Shipping $ 401.50 Total I look forward to your next e-mail. I will be thrilled to create your “Reflection Costa Rica Quilt”. Sincerely, Joy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Customer's e-mail - June 20, 2007 Hi Joy, I went to your link and looked at the Lab Retrievers quilt and was blown away. I did not see that one before. It gave me some ideas. I really like the busy pattern of the dogs fabric. I was thinking about using a rain forest effect fabric and maybe throw in a couple of tree frogs. You see a lot of that in Costa Rica. The rain forest fabric should be leafy is what I am thinking to create the busy effect I liked in the Lab Retrievers quilt. I was also thinking the small strips running between the rectangles should be an Ocelot fabric. If you can get all the spots to follow the line of the strip but maybe a bit wider like 1- 1/2 inches. What do you think? I am wondering now if Blue Denim would work with my quilt. And I think I would want to have the fleece backing be forest green. The cost adjustment for my previous email is fine. Now I just have to decide what I want. Please begin as soon as you can. I can't wait to see it. Do you need a deposit? Sincerely, Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ My Reply - June 21, 2007 Hello Bruce, Thank you for choosing me to create your "Reflection Costa Rica Quilt". I have added your quilt to my list of "Quilts To Create". I will begin shopping for rain forest and tree frogs fabrics. Will e-mail you what I find and you can let me know if I am on the right track of what you have in mind. I feel using the ocelot fabric as a frame for each of your surfing photos will be very pretty. Forest Green fleece backing is perfect. We can just wait and decide on having Blue Denim in the quilt at a later time. You can send me your snapshots and/or digital photos together with a $200.00 deposit so that I can have the photos transferred onto fabric and order the fabrics you choose for your quilt. We will then be on our way to creating a very unique Reflection Quilt. I will let you know when I receive your photos and deposit. Thank you again, Joy www.joyscountryquilts.com- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Customer's e-mails: June 22, 2007 Here are my pics. I am sending a ck Monday. This is going to be fun. Bruce Customer's reply to my fabrics e-mail: June 22, 2007 Yes you are on the right track................ Boy that was fast too........... The 1st one looks really close to what I was thinking but I wish it was a little toned down. My reply: I agree. I am still looking and will send more. We will find just the right fabric. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ E-Mail to my customer - July 5, 2007 Hello Bruce, I received your $200.00 deposit and Thank You note today. I appreciate your confidence in my steering you in the right direction so that the end result will be a most awesome quilt. Thank You. I will now have your 21 photos transferred onto fabric. Finding a rain forest themed fabric with tree frogs is more difficult than I anticipated. But am still searching for just the right fabric. Will send more for you to view soon. Sincerely, Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- July 16, 2007 Customer's reply to my sending him iron on tree frogs. Click here to view tree frogs and fabrics. I really like the tree frog iron ons. They are exactly what I invisioned. I kind of like this leaf pattern and color but with the iron on frogs. I'm trying to decide if I really want the cat fabric as a border. It might be too much. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The creation of this "Costa Rica Reflection Quilt" will begin first part of next year as I do not have enough time to complete it this year. Thank you for visiting. Your Happy Quilter - Joy Wostal ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Jan. 4, 2008 Hello Bruce, Hope this finds you doing well in the New Year. I am sending you a lay-out of one of your pictures trimmed with ocelot fabric, and one of the frogs, on a fabric I found while Christmas shopping. Let me know if you like this or want to shop for another rainforest fabric. Looking forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Joy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 6, 2008 Dear Joy, I absolutely Love It !!!! The fabric is perfect with the frogs. The only thing I do not like is the white around the photo. Can you crop the photo so there is no white showing? I can't wait to see more. I am getting very excited after seeing this layout. The trip was awesome and I am sure after seeing this display that the quilt will be awesome too. Thank you, Bruce Jan. 6, 2008 - My Reply Great! Will do another lay-out. Click here to view new fabric. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 7, 2008 Yes Bruce, You have a very good idea of what you want. It is much better without the white. Let me know if you agree to this lay-out. I am excited about starting your Costa Rica Reflection quilt. Sincerely, Joy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 8, 2008 Wow............ I am really seeing extreme potential there........... I just had a thought looking at this with more pictures laying out. Can you do it just like it is? I mean "Leave" the "Leafs" continuous. Just cut holes in the leaf fabric so that the pattern is not interrupted. The border can finish out with the Ocelot. And then the "Tree Frogs" can be random as if the pictures are suspended in a Costa Rica Rain Forest. Can you show me what I am describing? I really would like to see a larger layout with more pictures and maybe the border as I am imagining it. I am really getting excited. Thank You, Bruce My Reply: Yes, Bruce, I can leave the fabric continuous and applique the pictures onto the fabric. I will do a complete lay-out with all of the photos and a border within the next few days. Sincerely, Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 9, 2008 Hello Bruce, Here is lay-out II. The white edge on all of the photos will be folded in when I applique each photo onto the fabric. I had no idea how you wanted the photos arranged so I just randomly laid them this way and that way. Can you find all 8 frogs? Let me know if we are nearing what you have in mind for your 'special' quilt. The designing of a quilt is the exciting part and it takes time but we will get it just right before I do any cutting or sewing. Sincerely, Joy Click here to view Lay-Outs Jan. 11, 2008 I like the Ocelot strip in the border. The pictures seem a little too hectic. I am thinking maybe keep them horizontal but not in columns or rows. And try a border with Ocelot next to the Rain Forest with a wider Green strip and finish the edge with Ocelot. And maybe put a border or 2 around the pictures? Can you try that for me? Thank You, Bruce Jan. 15, 2008 Hi Bruce, Here are two lay-outs. Let me know if I am getting close to what you are looking for. Photo I: I used several different colors for borders around the photos and added a yellow strip down the green side strip. Photo II: Shows a few photos framed with the ocelot fabric and a small strip of brown in between the side strips of ocelot. Sincerely, Joy Click here to view two lay-outs -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 20, 2008 I received a telephone call from my customer letting me know he is a little behind in getting back with me due to a big push, and a lot of overtime, at his job. He will get back to me as soon as he can. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 22, 2008 Hi Joy, I finally had some time to really think about this and I believe I have a final decision on the layout. After looking at the different picture orientations I really like the busy pattern after all. You know the 1st one you sent me. Sorry I made you go through all that. But it really helped me. The twin Ocelot border with the brown center strip is very nice for the Border. I like the stepped widths just like you show it with the wider Ocelot strip on the outer edge, slightly smaller brown strip in the center and the thinner Ocelot strip against the rainforest fabric. I like the color of the small rusty brown swatch for the brown center strip. What is that fabric? It looks rich. Is it soft? And definitely border all the photos with the Ocelot. Probably the same width as the inner border. And the tree frogs.......... Just let it happen. I also want to find a small Costa Rica Flag to throw in there somewhere. And I have a coaster emblem of a beer that is brewed there. I will send it to you. It's heavy rubber but I thought maybe you could have the image transferred on fabric so it could be sewed on the quilt somewhere. I also have an idea to embroider the words: "Costa Rica 2007 - Pura Vida" across the top center of the quilt on the rusty brown border strip. I think maybe in a burnt orange thread. And with that said I was thinking of adding several other names around the border of the different surf spots we went to. Here are the names: Salsa Brava, Manzanillo, Jah Handers, Cocles, Playa Hermosa, Roca Loca, Olly's Point, Roca Bruja, Tamarindo, Langosta, Avellanes, Little Hawaii, Playa Negre. I would like to do them in different colors alternating between Yellow, Green and orange. I know it will be extra but can you do that? I think that just about covers it. Let me know if you need anything else from me. Thanks, Bruce -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 25, 2008 So good to hear from you Bruce. All of your ideas for your quilt are possible and very exciting. I will order the ocelot fabric today and let you know when it comes in. I will also order a small Costa Rica flag. Yes, we can have the coaster emblem transferred onto fabric for your quilt. The brown center strip you see on the lay-out is a fleece fabric. The fleece fabric together with the ocelot fabric for the quilt border will be very soft. The embroidery of all the words you ask for will really add to your "Costa Rica Reflection Quilt". Your quilt will truly be awesome and a one-of-a-kind. I am very excited about creating it for you. I have quite a few orders I am working on at this time. Do you have a completion date? If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Toll Free # 1-866-817-2980 Warmest Regards, Joy Click here to view lay-outs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 26, 2008 Dear Joy, I really can't wait to get my quilt. I understand you are busy and I don't mind waiting. Good things come to those who wait right?. As far as a completion date I guess ASAP is soon enough. lol. No really, whenever you can is soon enough. I am just so excited now that it is all decided. But take your time. I am not in a rush. You did not tell me how much the embroidered words will cost. Do you know? I am sending you the coaster tomorrow. Thanks for all your doing. I am certain this quilt is going to blow me and my friends and family away. I never thought I could do something like this. It's really exciting. Thank you. Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 27, 2008 Thank you Bruce. When the ocelot fabric comes in I will be able to get started on trimming your photos and will send you another lay-out for your approval. The cost for the embroidery will be approximately $100.00 or less. My embroidery lady will do a sample for our approval and give me a true cost. Transfer onto fabric of the Coaster will be $7.50. We have one more item to decide on. Backing fabric for the quilt. If you live in a cold climate you may want to have a nice soft fleece fabric. Perhaps in a forest green color. Other choices are cotton or flannel. Let me know. Warmest Regards, Joy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 28, 2008 Dear Joy, The cost of the embroidered names is worth it. I know it's a cost and I'm fine with the price. Just let me know the end result. I was thinking about the font for the words. I have a font on my computer that is called Surfer. I like this font. I attached a file I created with all the words in the size and font I was thinking about. The coaster cost is fine too but I think I want 2 of them. Maybe in the corners diagonal from each other and turn the top left one counter clockwise and the bottom right one clockwise a little bit. The backing. I forgot about that. I think I would like the feel of cotton best. And the forest green is a good color for me unless you can find a really dark aqua marine. I can't wait to see the next layout with all of this. Thanks, Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 29, 2008 Telephone Conversation I did not receive Bruce's attached file with the Surfer font. My computer showed a plain font. After discussing this by phone Bruce said he would mail me a copy from his computer for me to take to my embroidery lady. I will get back to Bruce with the embroidered sample and we will continue with this "Awesome" quilt request. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ March 7, 2008 Dear Joy, Guess what? I am going back to Costa Rica this April. I think I would like to put a hold on my quilt until I return. I might get some better pictures that I may want to add or trade out. Plus I may add some names to the border. I hope this is not an inconvenience to you. I will email you when I return. Thanks, Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- March 8, 2008 Wonderful on your trip back to Costa Rica. Have a safe and good vacation. I have no problem waiting to continue with your Costa Rica Reflection quilt. Your quilt will definitely be One-Of-A-Kind and will hold many 'special' memories. We will pick up where we left off when you return. Sincerely, Joy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- May 22, 2008 Dear Joy, My trip this year was very nice. We went to some new places and caught some very good surf. I want to add some pictures to my quilt and I have attached a file. I also want to add the following names to the border: Pavones, Dominical, and Matapalo. I had an idea to crop a few of the pictures to make more room. I think when you get these new pictures on fabric you can send me a photo of all the pictures cropped the way you think they should be so they fit. I know this will cost more but I really want to add this years trip. So let me know. I think you can have them printed in 5" x 7". And if you think smaller go ahead but I would rather crop a 5 x 7 to get a bigger shot if you know what I mean. Thanks for waiting. I am glad we did though. I can't wait to get started so email me as soon as you can. Thanks, Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- May 23, 2008 Welcome Home! I'm sure your trips to Costa Rica have been fabulous. The pictures show that. I am working on a quilt now for a June Birthday. Week after next I will be getting back to your "Special" Order. I am very anxious to begin creating your "Costa Rica" Reflection Quilt. Your idea regarding the photos is excellent and as soon as I have them transferred onto fabric and in hand I will send you a complete lay-out for your approval. Warmest Regards, Joy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- May 30, 2008 Just a note to let you know the lady who does my transfers and embroidery is on vacation until June 16, 2008. I am so sorry for this delay but I know your 'special' quilt will be worth waiting for. You have some very good ideas about how you want it designed and I am very honored you chose me to create your Costa Rica quilt. Will get back with you soon and if you have any questions or suggestions please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Joy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- June 27, 2008 Hello Bruce, I apologize for it taking so long to get back to you. My embroidery lady came back from vacation to find her mother very ill and spent a week or so at the hospital. Attached you will find photos of the three embroidery samples of the surfing spots' names in the colors you requested. Let me know if you are pleased and which size letters you prefer to go around the edges of your Costa Rica Quilt. Tomorrow I will begin sizing and laying out the photos for your approval. I'm not sure we can use all of them in a twin size quilt. You may want two quilts :) I would not want to leave any of the photos out...they are all so good. Looking forward to hearing from you, and again, I am sorry it took so long. Sincerely, Joy Click Here to view embroidery samples -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- June 28, 208 Hi Joy. I am ready when you are. Sooner is better for me (lol). I LOVE the colors of the embroidery and how it looks on the fabric. But I envisioned the orientation of the letters to be side by side and not stacked. And, I don't think I want the letters zig-zagging at all. I really would like to see it in the font I printed it in. Can the embroidery lady do that? Can't wait...... Thanks, Bruce ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- June 30, 2008 Yes, Bruce, the colors you chose for the embroidery are very pretty. My embroidery lady made these samples more for the colors for you to see, and also different font sizes. Attached are a few photos showing the different font sizes as they would look on the quilt. And, Yes, the embroidery lady can do the embroidery in the font you printed. She inadvertently did not do the bold font I gave her. It will be done just as you want it, I promise..... Also attached is a photo of all of the pictures we had transferred onto fabric for the quilt. There are many. I can trim some of them so that we will have more room. I need you to tell me which ones. Perhaps by going back to the original photos you sent me to be transferred you can send me the ones you want in the quilt and which ones I can trim. I took it upon myself to trim back the one picture which I show on the font sizes photo. I can also make the ocelot trim around the pictures just a tad more narrow and that will give us a little more room. I am very excited about getting started on creating your 'special' quilt. Sincerely, Joy Click Here to view font size photos and all photos ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- July 14, 2008 Dear Joy, I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. I was called out to trouble shoot a job and left on the 29th. I will get back with you on my Costa Rica quilt just as soon as I get back in. Thank you for your patience, Bruce ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Aug. 10, 2008 Hi Joy, Sorry for the delay. Now I AM ready. I have decided to trust you with the quilt from here on out. Every time I think of a different way I go back to the original idea. Funny huh. I like the off set letters after all. Just the way they are on the border. Looks great. I do however want "Costa Rica" in green and centered in the short edge (top). The rest is up to you. Crop the photos and place them random with the frogs, flag, coaster, etc. If you don't mind send me a a few pictures as you are progressing along. It will be fun to watch it coming together. Aug. 11, 2008 I want to use the "names" in the size and font I 1st thought of. I was looking at them today and decided against the off set letters. I am making a map with the locations and colors coordinated. This will make it easy on the embroidery lady. I would like to get a final cost established since I have added several items. And let me know if you need another ck for materials. Thank you so much Joy, Bruce -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Aug. 13, 2008 Hello Bruce, Good to hear from you. I am in the middle of creating a queen size quilt for a cancer patient....I should be getting back to your Costa Rica Reflection quilt by Oct. 1. I am truly looking forward to working on your quilt....I feel it will be awesome. Please send me your map with the locations and colors coordinated as soon as you can. My embroidery lady gets really busy in the Fall. It is difficult to give you a Final cost at this time because we haven't done the embroidery yet. The extra photo transfers from your second surfing trip to Costa Rica was $60.00. The embroidery may run up to $100.00 or more. Your final cost may be $650.00 I will let you know about the embroidery cost and you can send me a check for that amount. Warmest Regards, Joy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sept. 19, 2008 Hi Bruce, I received your information for my embroidery lady today. I have ordered the brown fleece fabric for the lettering and when it comes in next week I will take your map and locations and colors information to her. I am now sizing the photo transfers and sewing the ocelot trim around each one. I am very excited about beginning your 'special' Costa Rica Reflection quilt and will get back to you after I have gathered all I need for the quilt. I'm sure you will want certain photos next to the surf site names so we will work on that after my embroidery lady completes the embroidery. Take Care and Have a Good Weekend, Joy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sept. 25, 2008 Hello Bruce, I have the ocelot trim sewn around all 27 photos. I then pinned the surfing location names on the brown fleece border and found I had one left over...."Playa Negre" ?? (See attached photo) Let me know............ Sincerely, Joy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sept. 27, 2008 Hi Joy, Oops! Forgot about that one. I think I want to add "Playa Negre" on the bottom. Just put it next to "Pavones" and even all 4 names up. I can't wait to see the finished quilt. It's gonna be awesome I just know it. Thanks for all of your effort. You are really a big help. Can't wait to see the photo layout. Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sept. 27, 2008 Very good Bruce. I will add "Playa Negre" on the bottom and take the project to my embroidery lady Monday. I will let you know when she has it completed. I will lay out the photos for your approval and arrangement first part of next week. We are on our way now. Yes, it will be a very 'special' reflection memory quilt. Have a very nice weekend. Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Oct. 8, 2008 Hello Bruce, I have all of the photos trimmed with the ocelot fabric and have attached a lay-out for your approval. Remember, the ocelot trim will be half the size after I have appliqued all pictures to the quilt top so it won't be as crowded as it looks now. My embroidery lady tells me she is very busy during football season but will get the embroidery done as soon as she can. I apologize for it taking so long..... your quilt is a very extraordinary quilt and I feel will be worth the wait. Let me know your thoughts on the lay-out. Can you find the frogs? Click Here to view Photo Lay-Out. Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oct. 19, 2008 Hi Joy, I am really getting excited now. Everything is looking absolutely great. The layout is perfect. I can hardly wait. Thanks, Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oct. 21, 2008 Very good Bruce. As soon as the embroidery is completed I will send you a final lay-out for your approval and I will then begin appliqueing the photos to the fabric. I too can hardly wait.... Sincerely, Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oct. 26, 2008 Joy, Just a quick note. I was called out to trouble shoot a job site last week. I will get back with you as soon as I return. Thank you very much for your patience. Sincerely, Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 18, 2009 Hi Joy, Sorry I have been rather busy through the holidays and am just now getting back with you. I was revisiting the layout of the photos recently and I have sent you a list of some key pictures and located them on the layout the way I would like to see them. They relate to the embroidered names on the border. The remaining pictures can be placed in between these and I don't really have a preference. If you have any other suggestions please let me know. Hope I'm not too late in getting this to you. Thanks, Bruce -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 19, 2009 Hello Bruce, So good to hear from you. Yes, I understand your layout of the key pictures and how you want them placed on the quilt. I am very excited to have everything we need now for the creation of your "Reflection Costa Rica" quilt. I will begin appliqueing the transferred photos today and will keep you abreast of my progress. Sincerely, Joy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 20, 2009 Hi Joy, That is most excellent. I can hardly wait. It's funny how time flies by. Hope I did not cause you any grief. Thanks again, Bruce ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 22, 2009 Hi Bruce, I have had some quality time and have half of the photos sewn on. See attached photo. I hope it is correct. Sincerely, Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jan. 23, 2009 It looks awesome............. keep going........can't wait to snuggle under it..... ...Bruce................. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jan. 24, 2009 Hello Bruce, I need to know what kind of backing you would like for your "Costa Rica" quilt. Cotton, Flannel, or Fleece? and what color? Let me know as soon as you can so I can place the order. Thanks, Joy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jan. 27, 2009 Hi Joy, I've given it a lot of thought and I think I want to go with a high thread count cotton backing. I really see "Jet Black" working best. It will blend with the Ocelot border. I know it will show more lint but I just feel like that's what I want. Is that available? When do you think you will be done? I'm really getting pumped about seeing it finished. It may sound strange to you but I feel like I am about to paddle out at a new surf spot for the first time....... very excited...... Hurry......lol Thanks again, Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jan. 28, 2009 Bruce, the jet black cotton backing will be very striking on your "Costa Rica" quilt. All colors will show something. I will order it today. I am very excited and should have it ready to ship to you for Valentine's Day. Warmest Regards, Joy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb 02, 2009 Dear Bruce, I am now hand-tying your very ‘Special’ Reflection Quilt. I found a perfect black soft cotton backing on my shopping trip to the city this weekend. I am truly enjoying each phase of this awesome quilt. Total Cost: $ 150.00………………………Labor of Love (Twin) 125.00………………………(10) 8x10 Photos @ $12.50 50.00………………………(5) 8x10’s @ $10.00 102.00………………………(12) 5x7’s @ $8.50 (2^nd group of pics) 8.00………………………Enlarged transfer of Costa Rica Beer Coaster 184.54………………………Embroidery of Names of Surf Sites 15.00………………………Appliqued Frogs 6.99………………………Costa Rica Flag 15.00………………………Batting behind photos 15.00………………………Blanket for Middle 35.97………………………Forest Fabric 35.37………………………Jaguar Fabric for Trim of Pics and Hem 16.08………………………Brown Fleece Fabric for Embroidery of Names of Surf Sites 35.47………………………Black Backing Fabric 40.00………………………Shipping $ 834.42 (-) 200.00 Deposit $ 634.42 I was wondering if you would like for me to create a small throw using the photos you chose not to use in your quilt? Let me know and I can send you a photo of the extra transferred photos. Sincerely, Joy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 4, 2009 Hi Joy, Boy I can't wait to see this quilt and to show it off. I have been talking to everyone I know about this for a long time and they are as excited as I am to see it. They keep asking me about it. I am really looking forward to the day. I don't think I am going to want a throw at this time but I bet my wife is going to want that reflection quilt of our Hawaii trip after she sees this. The cost is fine with me. It's hard to put a price on something this special. But as I have seen this unfolding I am quite sure it's not enough for all of your hard work. Thank you for all of your patience. You have been a pleasure to work with. Let me know when you ship it. Thanks again, Bruce --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 6, 2009 Thank you Bruce for your kind words. Creating your Reflection of Costa Rica quilt is very enjoyable for me as I gaze at the many different pictures you captured on your surfing trips. I can almost feel the excitement you experienced. Your unique quilt will keep you cozy warm during the winter months as you dream of your next surfing trip. I am almost finished with hand-tying and will begin hand-hemming tomorrow. Will let you know when I ship. Let me know if the address on your $200 deposit check is the correct shipping address. Warmest Regards, Joy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 7, 2009 Hi Joy, I will be sending the balance due this weekend. I am about to burst waiting to see the final product of your creation for me. It is truly a feeling of total anticipation. I can't wait. Once again thank you for your hard work and patience. Yes my address is the same and I will send you my address with my check just to confirm. Sure don't want to have a shipping error at this point. lol I will be eagerly awaiting your email telling me you have shipped. Talk to you soon. Sincerely, Bruce ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 9, 2009 Just a note Bruce.....I will be shipping your "Costa Rica" Reflection Quilt tomorrow via "Priority Mail", and I hope you will like your very 'special' quilt. Received your check this day so I do have your correct address. Sincerely, Joy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 10, 2009 Hi Joy, I can't believe it. It's really done. Thank you for the heads up. I will email you when I receive it. Thanks again, Bruce ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 15, 2009 Hi Joy, All I can say is WOW !!!!! This quilt is so AWESOME !!!!! What a Valentines present. You truly outdid yourself. I am so impressed at the detail. You know I have seen pictures of fabric and arrangements on the computer but to actually see it and feel it .......... words are hard to justify my satisfaction in your creation. I am truly Blown Away. Thank you so very much. I will be showing and telling everyone about you and your gifted talent. I never even heard of this kind of work being done anywhere. I just happened to find you and now look what I have. This quilt turned out more awesome than I ever imagined. Well worth the money for sure. I just sit and stare at it and WOW. Definitely a memory maker. You absolutely surpassed my imagination. I can't wait to show my buddies. I have taken some pictures for you to put on your site if you would like. I know you probably do that yourself. Anyway, thank you so much again. You should feel very proud of yourself. You are a very gifted person and I am delighted to have crossed paths with you. Good luck and may God be with you. Sincerely, Bruce ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feb. 16, 2009 Thank you Bruce for your sweet compliments......makes my quilting heart beat happy little beats and I am so very happy you like your very 'special' quilt. I thoroughly enjoyed creating it for you. It is a very unique Reflection quilt. I placed the photo you sent me on my website..... Take Care and Happy Surfing. Warmest Regards, Joy Click here to view photos -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



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