New Year, New Quilt

Happy New Year. I hope everyone had a joyous holiday season.
My birthday is just six days a way and I found the most wonderful present for myself. I started giving my darling children hints. I have texted them pictures. Sent them e-mails. I am getting older and want to downsize. I do not need anymore electronics/DVD/knick knacks/kitchen gadgets/auto gizmos. I want an electic blade sharpener. I have spent hours reading articles and reviews on the internet about the sharpener. I keep my old blades in an jar. Why I could not tell you. I am hoping this will cut down on the number of blades I buy. Plus, I will have a fresh, new blade for each project.
My biggy for this month is that I am starting a mystery quilt with my friend JoAnna. I have cut the first set of strips and am mailing them to her today. I know what the quilt is but JoAnna does not. I think it should take us about three months to finish.
I bought Simplicity pattern 2274 (Bridesmaids duffle bags) at JoAnna's while it was on sale. I want to make one for my trip to Paducah in April. Any suggestions will be helpful. I may buy some fabric. I am trying to not buy fabric this year. Shop Home is my motto this year.
Happy quilting.
Jeri.