Jump Up and Down and Clap!!

Yes, Welcome please....my new machine... GEORGE!
Of course, it is fate.  I had JUST ordered my hand quilting kit because I had resolved that George wasn't going to come this way within my budget.

Two DAYS later APQS listed their "Used Machine Sale" on their web site and George was there at the bottom and right at MY wishful price!!!  I have been watching their web site for 6 months! Never has there been a George at this price.

In fact, they listed the machines on a Thursday afternoon.  I had checked that morning and still nothing listed and then that evening there was a whole list!  Of course, I could NOT get to sleep for the excitement.  When I woke hubby by my tossing I told him he needed to wake me at 7:30am so I could be the first caller in the AM ..Iowa time! But, there was no need because I just could not sleep at all.  And, I WAS the first caller :)

George was manufactured in 2008 and was traded in for the newer model.  Not sure why, the only difference is the color and the foot shaft. For $200 I had them upgrade the foot shaft so I could use interchangeable feet.  No Biggie.  And, the color is... immaterial. LOLOL  Old Silver vs. New White.
But, it took them 2.5 weeks to refurbish the machine and then they shipped by lightening fast ABF. So, here we are 3 weeks later! And, look at my arrival!

I had to wait for family to come home and help move boxes upstairs.  Hubby and I put together the table last night.

I found a good use for my old cutting table!  I figure if I put these two tables together, and in this corner my quilt will not have a problem falling off!  This is just outside my sewing room.  Yes, I have finally spilled out into the rest of the house!  Someday, when the kids leave, I intend to take over this whole bonus room which is over the garage.

Next is THE box.

Enlarge the picture and read the fun print on the box.  SO TRUE!  LOL

I just couldn't wait to unload it, so I did this myself. Look what was inside!

Can you tell??? I'm SO excited!  And, isn't it so nice he came with a bow tie?

There is lots to learn,  In fact, a whole flash drive was sent along with George.  Boxes of stuff needs to be put together. But, I just can't wait to try him out!  I put together some sandwiches while waiting, so I will be ready to practice.

Speaking of practice... This is my finished practice piece .. learning to hand quilt!

and the close up.  It isn't perfect, and I know that. But, I think that it passes as a first try!  And, I liked it.  I will have to have multiple projects going so I can have something to hand quilt and machine quilt!  I wonder what I do with this?

Patience pays off.  I am one happy camper.
Now, back to setting up a new quilting space!