The Pastor's Attic Quilt, February OMG & A Critique

I'm still adding leaves to the 25th block for my Pastor's Attic Quilt. This block is a repeat of another corner block. The vase is the same fabric but I'm using different fabrics for the flowers and stems. 

In the original pattern, there are 3 baskets on point in the corners. The 4th corner had this block, which is a nice block, but why have 3 baskets and then the 4th corner not a basket? 

There was an applique block that I simply did not like so I replaced it with this block which was supposed to go in the 4th corner and the basket block will reside in that corner. I mean, my quilt, my way.

The flowers were originally supposed to have embroidery in the centers, but part way through the process, I started using circles. I like the fabric circles better so there are 5 blocks to remove the french knots and replace with circles. I'm afraid the knots would cause wear & tear under the circles.

My goal for the month of February is to finish the applique on the 25th block and to replace the french knots with circles. This doesn't sound like a very challenging goal, but there are five blocks (including the one shown above) that need a total of 26 circles. And, in February, I am going to be gone a week to Arizona, where the sun shines every single day!

Now for the critique - I know I said I would give a review on the Ott light/magnifier in a month. I don't need to wait a month. I love it! Now remember, I wanted/needed the magnifying glass. There is a circle of LED lights on the bottom of the magnifying glass that shine right on my applique. I turn on those lights, and I didn't use the separate Ott light while appliqueing. The lights on the magnifying glass are enough light. 

Using the magnifying glass did take some time to get used to. There is a depth perception challenge, but I've adapted. Threading needles is so easy, the eye is huge. 

If you are experiencing eye strain or blurry vision after needlework, then the Ott light/magnifying glass is for you.

I bought the light on a stand. They also had a table top light/magnifying glass which cost less than the stand. I do not know if the table top version comes with the clamp. 

I like having the light clamped to the end table. The body swivels on the clamp so I can adjust the angle of the light and magnifying glass. I move the glass up and down, I'm not sure how secure it would be if the light were just sitting on top the end table, I would be afraid I would pull it off. Besides, I don't have room for it on the table, I have too much stuff on there.

There is also a clip to hold paper directions or something. I haven't used that at all. 

Linking to - One Monthly Goal, Kathy's Slow Sunday Stitching, Quilting is More Fun than Housework, Em's Scrapbag, Love Laugh Quilt, Fiber Tuesday, Esther's Wednesday WOW!, Sew Fresh Quilts, WIP's With Friend's, My Quilt Infatuation, Finished Or Not Friday, Crazy Mom Quilts, Confessions of a Fabric Addict, WIP's Be Gone