Brenda's Piece

Last Day of the Month. Good-bye January!!

2012-01-31T21:11:00.000-08:00

I have not been sewing much. Have not been busy. I have no real reason for not being productive this month so I will go with lazy then...... The only thing I really have gotten done this month and that was just yesterday (after I took off what I had done so I could fix it and do the binding again....!!) is this. Is it done yet? Nope, but the binding is on, just needs to be sewn down. Then it's finally DONE!!!! This will be two things done - my UFO and a Christmas project.

So January's to do list is not done. Move them into February (the shortest month we have in the year!! Yeah, make a LARGE list!!!) But since it's a leap year, I am going to make use of the extra day!! (I have to!!!!)

My goal list for February:

Orca Mystery!! I am working on putting it together.... every step of htis project takes some time to do!! And I just got an email from my quilter today!! She is having a special for February - free batting for one quilt! I am taking my Orca in to have it done this month!!! And the only way I can do that is get it done - So this is my first goal!! (yes I know it's being carried over from January!!! Bad Brenda!!)
Tree Skirt!! I was going to have this done by today too, so it's moved on to next month now too!!! (should have just gotten these done like I had planned.......) I am thinking I will do a twister skirt!! I bought the Lil' Twister ruler and I should just make the skirt with it!!!
UFO Project. Have not picked it yet. This needs to be done NOW!!! And it needs to be another quick one - so I can get back on track here......
OH!!! Right!! I am so glad I made a list, how quickly I forget.... HGTV blks - since I did not do January's yet, I have both Jan and Feb's to do...... See what happens when you do not do what you plan??? You PLAN for a reason, to stay on top of things - and when you do not DO your plan, it just creates chaos..........
And since I told the store in town I would do her BOM - I have that to do too. (I am just shaking my head now)
and last but not least - sew the last border on my Halloween quilt. Simple to do? Yes. So, just do it........

I have also started a list for March - I do not want any of the above moving onto March's list. grrrrrr!!!

One thing I have been thinking about is: putting a white board by my ironing board with my plans written on it. Out of sight, out of mind.... With a white board with my goals and ideas in my face and up close and personal, I can't say "Oh I forgot!!" Now, with a board, I will know I should not start anything else because (like above) I have 6+ things already on the go as it is!!!

So, meal planning and sorting and organizing my room and getting things done. I am having a very full and busy February!!! How is yours looking

Red Strings are DONE!

2012-01-06T18:59:00.000-08:00

See!!! My red Strings are all made and waiting to for the next step!!! This seemed to take me FOREVER!!! (about 3 days.....) I had to cut everything, I had no red strings of any kind and I basically was doing this from scratch!! And I was making sure that I did not use the same fabric in the same block - although, much to my amusement, that did not always work! I am still not 'in love' with string blocks, but I did not mind them. And I do like how they look when made into a quilt so....... I am creating a bag of strings now. For next time because I am sure there will be a 'next time'!!!

And since the next step is to remove the paper, here is my pile of triangles ready to have their papers removed.

And I am going to be doing that with the first season of "The Good Wife" in my player and I can see what I have missed.
This was show I though would be stupid, so I didn't even bother to check it out. Well, last year, doing something mindless (like removing paper from foundation blks) I had the TV on and this show came on....... I didn't change the channel, but I didn't really want to watch it either. Well, I watched. And now I wait for it come on!!! So, I treated myself to the first season considering I have no idea what happened, who did what and what is going on that I should know about to make this show more interesting!!! So this is how my evening is going to do tonight. And tomorrow, I will show you the next step I am on with this no-longer-a-mystery project!!

As I was looking at my blks, I noticed something about my reds. They are a darker red. They are not bright, not 'in-your-face', not brilliant. More subdued. Pretty much all of them. Hmmmmm. I think I am attracted to darker shades of colours. Which I find interesting because I love to see bright, happy, excited quilts. They make me feel good and energized. Why then do the quilts I make, seem more homey, calming, quiet.
I will be thinking about this. I realized this on my Christmas quilt 'Piece & Goodwill'. I had a friend send me some greens for it (Thanks Sandie!!) and they are beautiful!! I instantly loved them!! Was really excited to add them to my quilt when, I realized, they would stick out like a soar thumb!! The greens I used where dark - these were bright. And that is when I first thought about the colours I choose.

Tomorrow I am also going to show you a very special gift I got in the mail this week!!!
Until tomorrow then!! Night!!

Good Start to the New Year!!

2012-01-02T20:10:00.000-08:00

I have been making the red string blks for the Orca mystery!! 12 done, more under the needle and thread, and I would love to show you a pic, but as soon as I turned my camera on, it told me it needed new batteries!!!

And even though I have extra batteries, I also have people who know where I keep them and they are all missing in action!! lol!! And I have stopped for the night because I was finding myself getting cranky - a sure sign I should stop now!!!

So, for the rest of the night I will ....... hmmmmm!! Maybe I will watch some TV or read a book. Either sounds good to me right now.

So, pictures of my progress tomorrow - promise!! And I hope you are having fun with your new year too!!!

Goals and Ideas for 2012!!

2012-01-01T21:23:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year again!! So what did you get to do today? I watched Star Wars with hubby, on blue ray you know!! It was our daughters gift to him, and he was thinking about buying it for himself when he saw it in the store, but she told him he didn't need it!!! She had already gotten it for him!!

Today I ironed and put the blks away for Step 5 on the Orca mystery. The reveal was show today, and I was not sure what I thought.....hmmmmm. But, I am making it because I think in person, it will look different, then in the photo!!!
And I have made all these blks and I am going to use them!!!

My blks are not solid blacks -I even have spider webs in some of them!! Fun!!

And Candy Canes and moons - because of all the colours and the 'stuff' in these blks, is why I was wondering about them yesterday. Would they work in the quilt or was/is it to much movement???

After seeing the reveal today, I am thinking it will be fine - and I work HOURS on these!!!

Here are the start of my strings for the string blks. I am still cutting, am not ready to start sewing yet, but I am going to be doing this tomorrow.

And this brings me to my 2012 plans. One, I am going to organize my house. I am reading (have been for over a year now!!) Peter Walsh's book on decluttering your home - and your life. Sounds real good to me!!!
And one of the things I really need to get a handle on is my UFO pile.
And one thing I know about myself is - I love to start things!!! I love the newness, the thrill of the start and the joy of seeing it come together..... Hence, why I have so many things in the wings and so many patterns fighting for my attention - "pick me next!!"

Here is my January Goals - sewing wise!!
~HGTV's BOM! Yup, a block of the Month!! It's one block - common, it's not like I am starting a quilt??!!
~ORCA mystery!! I am finishing this - and I want to get it to my quilter ASAP!! (And yes- I WILL bind it ASAP!!!)
~Last border on my Halloween quilt.
~Keep making and get my strip border on my Coffee Quilt
~Christmas Quilt (Piece and Goodwill) on my design wall - finish blocks, sew into top - get it ready to eventually go to quilter.......
~CLEAN UP MY STASH!!!! Make strips, blks and squares for my Stash User system.
~Keep making up my kits (I have already started these!!) with the fabrics in my stash
~(Place mats for the food bank for next Christmas) {this hit me as I was making my list. that is why it's in brackets. It's a maybe, not a have to, but it would be nice......}
~Start Tree Skirt!! I need to finalize my choice on this, ASAP!! I have one in the book: French Braid Obsession -pgs 37-42 that I like. Or one from this web site - it's a video from the Missouri Quilt Company.
~Bind my quilts I have gotten from my quilter. One a week would have them done!!!!
~And this is my UFO finish for this month:

Do you remember the stain glass windows made - oh? How many years ago?? Well, this one is mine and this is as far as I got before I stopped working on it. Basically, all it needs is to be bound. Pathetic!! I have over 40 of these type of thing in my hidey-holes and they are coming out of hiding this year. Worked on and DONE!!

After this UFO is finished - I will have another one to immediately take it's place.

So far today, I have been doing okay with this list. I am working on the Orca project. I am enjoying it and am looking forward to seeing it done!!!
I have had a nice first day of the year. And I am looking forward to making my dreams/goals a reality!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2011-12-31T18:41:00.000-08:00

So, do you have your plans set out for the next 365 days!!??
I do!!

And I am going to start this year off with great wishes for everyone to have a HAPPY NEW YEAR and all the best to you and yours!!!

May tomorrow and the days after bring you all the joys that you can handle and fill you with peace and happiness. Have a great Sunday and welcome to 2012!!!

Half done Step 4 of Orca Mystery!!

2011-12-30T20:46:00.000-08:00

I have been sewing for hours today!! And I am happy to report, I am making progress on the Orca Mystery!!
I finally decided to shut it down for the night, and since I do not have a clock in my sewing room, it is not as late as I thought it was!! I was thinking it was past 10 o'clock, close to 11 - but was happy to see it's only 9:40!!! So, that is pretty good then. I can still 'do something'!! ;-)

I am hoping to have more done tomorrow - so that when the final step of the mystery is posted on New Years Day - I will at least feel like I have a good chance of finishing it really soon!!!

And with that, I am off the computer and maybe read something fun!!! Night all!!

New Year Word!

2011-12-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

Well, I think I have found my word. "Organize"

I have been thinking about it since I read the blog about this idea yesterday, and I could not think of a word that would describe what I want in life for the next year...... Then today, I had this word, which I realized had been stewing in my brain for awhile now, and it describes exactly what I am craving in my life.

I want to have my sewing room feel like a retreat. An escape. A place of peace and calm. Invigorating. Tidy. Easy to manage. In a word: Organized!

My bedroom: Calm. Peaceful. Not a dumping ground for things without a home. A place where I can light candles at night, read a book, listen to music. Go to bed in an inviting place and wake up in one that is open to the new day!! In a word: Organized.

My house - every room from Kitchen to Laundry, Bathroom to Living rooms - and this included the yard. What do I want?? A place that invites you in and welcomes you. A place where what you are looking for is easy to find, and if need be, easy to replace because you can tell you need something!! A place that is easy to clean, easy to decorate, easy to live in. A place where you feel comfort and love, a place that is your refuge. A place that I can call home and not the 'place I live in'.
If it was organized, would that help? Wouldn't hurt! So yes, that word works here too!!!

My hobbies, my home, my book keeping (or lack there of...!), my collections, my meal planning/freezer meals/baking, food storage, storage of anything, getting things done.... the list could just go on and on...... all benefit from this simple little word.

So my word of the year for 2012 - ORGANIZE!!

I have sewn today!!

2011-12-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

I am lovin' my new iPod!! I am still not sure of everything it does, and sometimes I can't figure out how to make it do what I want it to, but, I am loving that when I have a book I want to 'read' it just talks me through it!!! And does not stop!!! Love it!!!!

I am still on Step 3 of Bonnie Hunters Orca mystery - I will get it done!! And no, I have not made any blks in the the next steps like she recommends - I just want to pretend I am not behind!!

And, I found couple new blogs to follow today. One I found through Pat Sloan's blog, Ali Edwards, One Little Word. It is talking about choosing a word for the next year that speaks to you - any word that just comes to you and makes you feel something. Pat talks about words she has chosen (Ali has been doing this for a few years now) and I think it is a neat idea. No, I have not picked a word - but I am going to.....

I would love to start living the life I want........ And what does that mean??? Well, I sometimes feel empty, stressed, angry for no real reason, frustration, unbelievably happy, and one weekend in Sept, I spent the whole weekend crying!!!! And when I talked to someone about it (yes - I did!), he told me that I was grieving my childhood, and it was something I had to let myself do. And, < heavy sigh> I am finding I am thinking of me now - what I want (hence the iPod the other day!!!). What do I want?? (hate that question!!! I never know how to answer!!! It is an easy question, but I struggle with it!!!) So, this is something I am working on. What do I want? One, to know what I want. To not second guess myself. And to do what will make me happy - if that is watching a movie, reading a book, making meals for the freezer, baking - does not matter what is it, but I want to start doing things for me - and if I am happy, that joy will spread to my family and friends!!!

So, I am going to find my 'word' and put it up on my mirror, in my sewing room, in my wallet, and keep it front and center, available to me in the new year, and see what happens. Hmmmmmm, wounder what the word will be???

Here is a my One Block Wounder - I have all the blks ready to be sewn into a queen size quilt. No more fabric to use as a border though!! What was I not thinking!!! But this, along with MANY others, is something I want to finish this year. Goal #1 - Do my projects!!!

And one day (soon!!) I will post my projects that I want done.

AND

I will post pics of the quilt I have that need binding on them.... maybe so you can see them, I will post the pics before I bind them!!!

Bird, bird, bird is the word!!!

But it's not my word!!!!

Book Recommendation!!

2011-12-27T17:16:00.000-08:00

I am back.
Do you read? I do, but I also like to listen to books and yesterday, I bought myself a present... I am the proud owner of and Ipod!! I have never had one before, and I have been thinking about it for awhile now and I picked one up!
Well, my daughters are each 'helping' me figure this thing out!!! I ended up with my 'libray' of books loading on it today!!! I thought I didn't want that - BUT - I am right now listening to a book I have not listened to before - and I am laughing!! So, I am on here to tell you to check it out!!
I got it off of Audible - and I was going to stop my subscription, but now, I am thinking it's a good thing!!
This book is called: "The Power of Joy" by Christiane Northrup M.D.
"How the deliberate pursuit of pleasure can heal your life"

hmmmm, my 'book' just did its own funky thing - is it starting over or - I don't know!!! this is why I thought having it on an MP3 thing might work better than the CD's I've tried to burn.... on the CD's the books seemed to be all mixed up - now it seems to have done it again., Yes, it has restarted! And I don't think I have the whole book...... Well, what I did have was really good - and once I figure this out (I hope I do!!!_) I know I will enjoy the whole book!! I think I might just get myself a 'hard' copy!!

Going again!! Bye!!

It's been a MONTH!!??!

2011-12-27T14:00:00.000-08:00

I just logged on, like I have been doing to see what others are doing and enjoying myself...; when today, I realized - it's been a month since I have written anything!!! Uh - ooops!?! What have I been doing??? NOT sewing, that is for sure!!! Shopping, yes, I have done that. Dreading Christmas?? A little...... BUT!! I got through it and wondered why I thought it was going to be so hard. It wasn't. Nothing bad happened, gifts were given and received and the turkey even came out moist!!!

I have been thinking of the New Year though. A new 12 months to live in. Doing what???? Well. Finishing things - and - big AND!!!! Creating things to make my house a home. I need a Christmas tree skirt. I am planning on making something for Christmas every month this year - and I think I will start with a skirt in January!!

And I am planning on working diligently on my UFO list - I have 40+ already written down, and I am sure I have things that I have forgotten about........ Every month, I am pulling a 'thing' out of my draw bucket - and what ever I pull - that is what I have to have done by the end of the month!!!! So, I, who does not seem to finish ANYTHING.... is planning on having at least 12 things DONE by the end of the year. I want to have more than that done, but at least the 12 UFO's so I can get these things OFF MY LIST!!! (The list that written write on it about 3-4 yrs ago "do not add to this list" - has had things put on it anyway...... Not a good thing. Not at all. It is embarrassing how long some of these projects have been aging.... Things get better with age right??? Uh, not always.......)

It is funny how little things can make big changes in a persons life. My friend and I were talking and I want her to call me on the thing I say I want to do, and she will find out if I am actually doing them. Be accountable. If I know she will ask, I will probably do it more than if I just keep it to myself.......... And it is the small things that will make a big difference for me. My 20 minutes of sewing a day is a huge impact on my progress of things. Things just seem to keep moving along. When I don't sew, I forget where I was, what I was doing and what is that for?????? Twenty minutes is not much time at all - but it is better than not sewing at all!!

So, if I can do 20 minutes of sewing time, where else can I make the commitment to myself? Exercise?? Baking?? Freezer meals?? Doing Housework?? hmmmmmm. All things I want to do - regularly , but don't. Why not????

Bad Habits. So. Lets work on creating Good Habits. Ones that support my ideas and dreams. Ones that build me up instead of making my feel like I have failed. Ones that create the life I say I want to live.

On the Bonnie Hunter Orca mystery, I am on Step 3 - have printed off the others, but I have not worked on them yet. I haven't been sewing!!!! And I have to be caught up in my sewing commitment by the end of the year - start 2012 with a clean slate and ready to rock!!!!

So, here is my commitment - in case I forget!!
1) A Christmas item every month: tree skirt; place mats; table runners; mug rugs; wall hanging; fabric bowls; I have more, but this is a good start!!!
2) All UFO's numbered and numbers put in a bowl - draw a number every month. Goal - to have it done in that month. FINISHED!!
3) Keep working on my projects I have going right now - Orca mystery, quilts that need binding (5 right now!) My word wall hanging, finish off my Halloween borders, and the coffee quilt borders...... what else????

Wow, this already feels overwhelming.......

And besides that I want to cook, clean and exercise!!!! Know what?? I can do it. I know I can!!

Come along for the ride and let me know when you think I have gotten off track!!! ;-)

I wish you a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

Still Working on Step 1!!

2011-11-27T18:03:00.000-08:00

I have the proper ruler for this Orca mystery from Bonnie Hunter. The only ruler that does not give me a hard time and make me think to hard!!! The proper tool is the Easy Angle and Companion Angle from EZ Quilting - like Bonnie says!!

These are my triangles - getting ready to be sewn into pairs......

These are my sewn pairs, ready to be pressed so they look like proper blks!!!

And here are the triangles that I have cut off the the dog ears and am ready to sew to there partner!! I am almost done this step (fingers crossed!!)

And this is a sweet surprise to me!! I TOTALLY forgot about these blks!!! A friend, a few years ago, gave me her left over blks from a blue string quilt that she had done. I had no use for them so I just put them into my odd blks pile and today for some reason ( probably to just take a break....) I was sorting through these blks, thinking of how I could incorporate them into a backing for my quilts like Bonnie does.... When I saw these, I laughed!!!
They are the right colour for Step 2 - and I can get 4 out of each blk I was given!!! And,

I was given 10 in total!! I am almost done Step 2!!! Thank-You big man upstairs!!! I appreciate this!!! Not only am I getting some of my mystery done, I am also cleaning out things that would other wise just be sitting there.... waiting and waiting for me to notice them!!!

So, all in all, I am having a good weekend. And I am still shaking my head - it is raining outside...... Uh, that is unusual, and the roads tomorrow, will be total ICE.

I am so glad I can, and will, stay home tomorrow till it warms up again. I do not have to be anywhere any time soon. Love that!
Have a great week. And lets get some sewing done!!!

Today Has Been a GREAT DAY!!!!

2011-11-24T14:51:00.000-08:00

I have just found a post on how to make a dog collar. I don't know if - or should I say, when, I will be making this, but it's perfect for making a special one for, hmmm, Christmas maybe??!! And my dog has outgrown his, and is without one right now - so this should be on my to-do list!!!

I think it would make a good gift for a friends dog too!! Just an idea......

And I do not know the date that this will post on - I started it yesterday, but am finishing it today - so we will see...

I went today to got my hair dyed and cut - and have even made an appointment for January.... Something I usually do not do?? But I liked the stylist and well, I have to start keeping up with it because my hair is more grey than I like and I am tired of looking in the mirror and seeing how grey it is!!!!

And after, I knew I was going to my LQS, had decided that the other day when I was in the city picking up my new ruler - the one to help me with my blks for Bonnie's Mystery!! (Which, no, I have not started yet... tonight though, it will be tonight!!!!) I am being picked up for my guild meeting (or else I would not go...) and I am planning on cutting and sewing some together there.

                   Anyways!!
I went to the quilt shop, and found some more Grinch flannel's - the one I am using for my pillowcases is gone, but I found some that will work. I will take a pic later... it's for a gift, so after the first of December, I can show you, but for now it's supposed to be a secret!!!   Anyways, I only had enough fabric for 3 pillowcases, so the next one will be different, that's okay though, it's for me!!!! And since I have washed the flannel, I have to wash this new stuff too, because the rest of it - the 'leftovers' are being made into a rag quilt!! And you can not have wash flannel with non-washed flannel, so everything is washed now.... and I might have to wash more, since I do not think I have enough for the quilt...... But I think it will be really cute for a throw on the couch for Christmas!! Especially if you haul out your pillow in it's case and relax and watch a movie!

What is your favorite Christmas movie? Me? It's the black and white, Miracle on 34th street!!! LOVE this move!! But saying that, my new favorite is Polar Express!!!   Common!! You have to believe in Santa Clause!!!

Okay, since I am being picked up for the guild meeting, I have to be ready and so I am off to get my stuff packed and by the door!!!

OH!! Have you made any New Year Plans yet????   I have. 2012 is the year I am going to take at least 6 classes to learn a new skill...... (I was going to say 'one a month' but then reality hit me!! I do not need to create more UFO's - PHD's or anything that is not going to be finished any time soon... like the things I am seeming to doing now!!! Pillowcases?? AND a rag quilt????? What about the border on the coffee quilt?? Is Halloween done yet??? and the Piece and Goodwill????? Yeah, when are they getting completed??? and don't you have some that need binding???? Okay, when are you going to finish what you have going on and now you are going to take CLASSES??????

Yup, I am !!!   And, finish what I've started too......................................!! ;-)

Quick Hello!!

2011-11-20T19:32:00.000-08:00

I have been sewing most of the weekend, and tomorrow I am going to a friends and we will sew together. I am not sure how many will be there, but it's supposed to be cold an yucky, so. I'm in!! Might as well sew with friends instead of always by myself.

I have gotten the coffee quilt with borders on it now - I will post a pic at a later date. I am still going to be putting anther border on this top so it's not done, but almost......

The Halloween, has the orange pumpkin fabric - and when I said 4" border, uh, that is what I cut!! So, it's not going to be the 4" like I had planned, but I also am putting on some of the black around the pumpkin to make it a bit bigger, so that will help!! It is almost done too!!

And my Piece & Goodwill blks are now being my leader and enders!!!! They are looking really good too, so I am happy to say, I am making another top while I work on finishing my projects!!

Have I started the Bonnie mystery yet? Uh, yes, but, saying that, I am using a new ruler and we are not getting along!! It will be fine though - I found my regular ruler and I should be getting my triangles the right size soon!! And as I was cutting out some fabrics today (getting frustrated at how cramped my space is - which is no bodies fault but mine.....) I came across another bucket of scraps!!??!! How many of these do I have???? (Don't answer!!! I do not want to know I have any more..... I shouldn't even have one!!!) Anyways, in this bucket are blacks - and creams, and usable pieces for this mystery!!!! Not very big pieces, but I can and will use them. And I was worried......lol!

And that has been my weekend. How has yours been??? Cold out, so I stayed inside.......

First Winter Snow Storm!!

2011-11-17T18:48:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been snowing and blowing all day!!! Old man winter is really here and is not going to go away any time soon so, what's a girl to do??? Sew of course!!! And I have been!!!

So this is what it looks like outside. I was hoping to get a pic of the snow blowing around, but it didn't come out like that, so... this is what it is. Grey sky's and snow that is coming down and moving in the wind!! My daughter went and cleaned off the driveway, and then did it again when it just all blew back on!!

And it is now here to stay.

It actually does not look to bad out there in this pic.

It certainly isn't nice!!!!

Daughter told me we should go put up our Christmas lights!! Uh, she likes to go out in the snow and cold - I don't!!!

No lights going up in this weather!!!

This is my newest bird feeder. No birds now, but blue jays come to visit alot!!

And this is my final layout of my Halloween blocks!! It really does look better in person, and it definitely looks better when sew together!! I am treating these blks as leader/enders, so when I have finished putting on a border on my coffee quilt - the summer mystery that has the baskets on it - I will put two of my Halloween blks together and sew them up. I sometimes put two sets through, and it's making putting this top together a little quicker!! I am having fun. But since I ran out of bobbin thread and my spool of thread is almost empty and my Audio book CD needs to be changed - and this all happened at the same time!! I took it as a sign to be done for the day!!!

Tomorrow I will show you my Coffee Quilt top with the first border on!!!

Talk to you tomorrow!!!!

Night!!

missed a day....

2011-11-16T06:43:00.000-08:00

I did not blog yesterday!! Realized that this morning. So, I failed at my attempt to blog everyday this month - BUT - saying that, I have blogged more this month then any other, so I think I am doing just fine!!!
I had a dentist appointment yesterday, and when I got home, I was just busy - didn't sew yesterday either, but I did blog hop and do some fabric shopping online at This-n-That Fabrics, who are going out of business, so this is their close out sale. But, I did not blog....

Today, I plan on sewing and going for coffee later with some friends - and that is my big plans for the day!!
Hoping you are going to have a great day too!

New Winter Tires Now On Car!!

2011-11-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

I had to go to the city to get my winter tires put on the car. Coming home, tire pressure lights up on my console!! Scared me!! Hubby checked and one tire had 10 lbs more air then the others..... I am going to the dentist tomrrow in another town, and I am going to ask the shop there, same company, to check my tires to make sure it is really okay!! Your life is really depending on these tires so I want to make sure it's okay!!

Well, while the tires were being done, I had 2 hrs to amuse myself. I thought I would get myself a magazine and a coffee/tea and sit out the wait, reading.... well, that didn't happen!! I ended up with two magazines, and no sitting!!

I found this magazine on a blog I visited yesterday - and when I saw it, I was sure the quilt I really liked was in it.... it is!!!!! And they have a few more intersting things in there, so I guess the $14.00 price tag is worth it!! I just know I really like the quilt on page 91 - and now I have the pattern for it!!!

So, look what was in the mail for me today!!! I was happy to see it arrive!! Yes, it is my

fabric that I ordered from Thousand Of Bolts the other day. The morning after they sent an email saying it had been sent!

I do not have reds in my collection - now I do!!! Even red solids, which I am not really fond of, but hey, it's here and now I ~~can~~ will use it!!

And here are my blacks.... plus a little bit more!! I had to have a Halloween!! And those Christmas trees?? Way to cute, had to have some!! And that blue/black bali?? I think will work in mystery that starts on the 18th!!

2011-11-13T17:46:00.000-08:00

I just got an email that not only surprised me, it thrilled me!!! I was on Bonnie Hunters site looking at what she had to say and I left a comment. NOT because she was doing a draw, but because I loved what I saw and wanted to comment on it - and I was one of the two lucky winners!!! She drew my name!!! You can see it here, if you want to read about it!! But isn't that exciting?!?!

So, last night, I decided that I had to get my Jelly Roll Mystery done - well, the top done and out of my hair!! Bonnie Hunters new mystery is starting this week and I need to be done some of my projects - this one was first on my list..... And here it is.
Do I like it?? It's bright and happy looking, but I am thinking the square border just gets lost in it..... But it's done, and I enjoyed it and now, I can move on to all my other projects!!!

Like my Halloween blks!! Here are the last of them - I got them done today after using them as leader/enders during the above mystery! And it was quick to put them together - which was nice.

I am going to get ll my blks together and then give this quit a 4" border. Then the binding which I might do a deep orange or purple even!! But I might do black..... (boring....) I am thinking the one on the right will be used as the border. It's pumpkins and I think it works for this quilt!! I have a close up it below.

These are more pics of the blks. Closer views. I ran out of the black pumpkin ribbon fabric so, I had to use plain black. I think it will look okay once in the quilt - right now it's kind of popping off the screen, but it's going to be fine. If not, it's okay. It's Halloween and doesn't have to be pretty - just fun!!

I really like the bats on the blue.

Here is the pumpkin fabric that I think will be it's border

The other is orange stars on the black background. I don't like it as much...... and besides, I have way more of the pumpkin one so....

I am now working on the border for the coffee quilt I did this summer. And that is what I just left on the ironing board when I decided I had been in my room long enough.
Today I was listening to Queen's greatest hits while I sewed, and I think I turned it on again and again about 4 times!!! (it could have been more....) I enjoy that album! Okay, CD - and soon it will be 'digital copy'...... And I am probably should be thinking of getting myself an MP3 player, just to have huge variety of music I can sing to while I sew. Some people whistle while they work. Me, I listen to books or music that fills my soul with joy and crank it loud!!! I was at one meeting once, a work meeting, where you bring your machine and sew. I was told, not to play music, (it was classical music, softly playing by my machine.....) by a woman who can be - difficult - but I love her, so I turned it off. But I did not understand it. Rock, yes, that I get and as loud as I would have it sometimes at home, I get, but elevator music just for background sound....... I still don't get it. And I know anyone else wouldn't have minded, but I never brought my music to share again. And that makes me sad because I enjoy music while I sew. It helps me keep moving and makes me smile and I just enjoy it!! What do you do while you sew?
I also listen to books!!! It's fun!!!

Snow has finally Arrived!! (but did it have to??)

2011-11-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

It's not alot, but it's proof that is here. And last night, I was outside thinking "is it really going to snow?? It is so warm, I don't think it will...." and woke up to this!!
It was funny! When I opened the door to let the dog and cat out, and the cat who was waiting by to door as if to say, "What is taking you so long??" stopped completely when he looked outside!! Dead Stop! He was not moving!! So, I pushed him out with my foot - not meanly, just slowly and he did go but he was not expecting the snow either!!

What is on your crafting plate today? I plan on getting that Jelly Roll Mystery done today. But my big project is the pillowcases I want done for Dec 1st. And my daughter drew her Dad's name for stockings this year, and I have a stocking I have not finished for him yet (it has been ready to be made into stocking form for years..... this is the year.......) So, I will get that done right away, so she has it. And I have another project off my mind..... it's scary how many I actual have on the go.......

Enjoy your Saturday. Plumber will be here soon and I will have a dishwasher that works again!! Bye for now!

Remembrance Day

2011-11-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

Today is a day to remember. One day we all share in the memories of people who fought to keep this country and others safe from harm. And we all know people who have fought for this - uncles, aunts. Friends and other family members. My mom had a brother who was in the 2nd World War, and her being very young when he got back, she would run out the door and let the door slam and what freaked her out, is this man, who she really didn't know, would dive for cover every time and scare her!! What did these men and woman go through?? And they did not have the help we have now for PTS. They just didn't talk about it...

My grandmother lived through both wars. And the second one, two of her sons were in it. So, yes, memories. Please take the time to remember today.

~Brenda

Testing, testing, One, Two, Three....

2011-11-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

I have found a colour test, so you can see what your favorite colour means to you! Actually, the thing I was reading was an article about colour and mentions books at the end, so I came on to see if they had any on-line tests and I found one. I did it and see what you think!

I cleaned out quilt magazines from my room last night. I will not do most of those projects - so I took out the ones I liked and put them in page protectors and now I have my own 'magazine'!! Without the adds!!! And it's funny how I like all the projects in there!!

No, I did not throw out all my magazines, if they had more than 2 projects that I liked in them, they stayed + all the Quiltmakers...... but my shelf has more room - which is good because I needed someplace to put my new binder of projects!! And I will take the huge stack of go-aways that I do not want to my guild meeting tonight and let the other ladies have 'em. And what they don't take I just might leave for the Home Ec teacher - she can use them or throw them out. I do not want these back. So, garbage to me and that is good.

I am a 'hoarder' of recipe books and craft books that I am interested in. And enough is enough. Out with the old, and in with projects getting done and then that whole mess is out the door to!!! Between my paper collection (books, jotting down ideas on loose paper, pages taken loosely from magazines) and my collection of project half done, if that much done!! I have a problem!! And it's not fun to work around. So, no more working around it. If it's not helping, it's hindering and so out the door you go!!

So that is how it stands today. And my shelf, looked better after the over haul. Now, what to do with these books........ I went through them quickly last night, and pulled a few that I won't use again and the are with the magazines. But, I really need to go through them again and see if I really want them, or do I have them just because I wanted them all from the author (Judy Martin)... Seriously. Am I ever going to use these books or are they there for inspiration? Eye candy can be good!!! But I also want to make my room user friendly and not a cluttered up mess space!

Here is one UFO - my daughters quilt, for her 16th birthday. She will be 20 at the end of the month.....

And another project waiting to be done......... Stonehenge. This is the start of the disappearing 9 patch - it is now done like that, but it's not finished. Wouldn't this make a neat twister quilt!! Okay, enough!!

It is time for me to go and get this day - well afternoon started!! I have a quilt guild meeting to go to tonight, my first of the year. And since Hubby and daughter are on their way home from their job, I think I should make them dinner too!!! That would be nice I am thinking!!!

So here is a question, just because: Do you control time, or does time control you?

Bye!!

Dishwasher NOT installed.....

2011-11-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Had the person who is was going to install the dishwasher, here yesterday. He is a plumber and he told me the dishwasher I bought (it's a Bosch) is a very good one, but they have their own system that they run on and it's takes a bit of time to get things right for them to work - they are not just a hook this up, plug that in and it's good to go! They have a couple things that need to be set up right for them and he wishes Sears would tell people this when they buy this machine, so at least they are informed.
I told him that was not a problem, as long as it's done right, I am okay with it.

Now, here is the 'real' problem..... Water does not run uphill very well and, where the dishwasher drains, the pipe has a bow to it, and then the water that it is draining, well, it has to move up, before it can go out...... And, he won't put in this dishwasher until that is fixed.... Which is just fine with me, because that is the last thing you need - poor drainage!! And I am thinking this could be part of the problem of the dishwasher we have now - the icky water ends up back in it somehow because it couldn't drain properly.   So, he will be back on Saturday - and hubby will be home too!! So yeah..... it will be interesting to see what happens then.....

He was not happy when I told him, what was going on and I that I told the plumber to come back and fix what was wrong, but I don't care. This is a maintenance issue with the house, and it is going to be done. Fixed and good to go.
And then hubby agreed.   The thing that is almost funny: my dishwasher was on Sale!!! But the pluming bill is the same cost as my dishwasher!! Were did I save??

I am actually kidding - I am glad it's being fixed. I don't care the about the cost because not fixed could cause huge problems so, I just want it done.   And this is something I was not aware of, but when pointed out to me, you could see it!!!   And Terry said, when we were talking, that he had noticed the bow.....???

What I was not happy about - the plumber asked if we had solved the mouse problem. Uh, what?? "The mouse problem", he answers. "What mouse problem?????"   Under the dishwasher, is mouse droppings!! Granted, he told me they were old droppings, but I don't care!!! YUCK!!!! So, now I am cleaning up that mess and finding traps to prevent it from happening again.   He told me mice love dishwashers!!! They are warm and cozy and they just love to be around them!!!
Right now, with the weather being as warm as it is, I could see mice moving in. They know it is going to get cold out soon and are looking for good places to hole up for the winter. And last night, probably just because he mentioned mice, I am sure that one was in the wall by the garage because you could hear squeaking and our cat JC was very interested in that area....... And Terry had seen a mouse in the garage the other day....

Here is the last of the articles questions!

7) What gives you a sense of fulfillment?

(and the article continues here...)   Fun is great, but don't forget to ask question 7. Everyone desires a sense of accomplishment and success. What makes you feel great deep down in your soul?
If you have an established business, consider retuning to your original passion. Get in touch with what drove you and get back to doing the things you can't wait to do each day. Who knows - maybe you won't want to sell your business after all.

Remember, this article was by Eric Gilboord, and it's not about 'creativity per say, but the questions are about you. And what do you want in your day to day life. And how to get more of what you love and enjoy into those days!!!!

NOT a mouse!! This is one of my Chinchillas. I think it's funny I picked this pic, not realizing what it looked like till it posted!!! Okay, so even though the mouse problem is not funny, you have to laugh and not stress about it. Now that I know there is a problem - I will fix it!
Have a great Wednesday and enjoy yourself. I will be sewing for part of this day.... that is the plan.

New Dishwasher being Installed today!!

2011-11-08T08:31:00.000-08:00

It's been over a week since I went and bought a dishwasher and today is the day they are putting it in!! And taking away the old one that the girls taped a note to the front:

So, you know there is a problem when....

And today, there will be a new one in it's place. They will be here soon, so I need to get some stuff moved away from the front door!! They are installing the new guy and taking this old one away with them! And I don't have to worry about it not being installed right - so win/win!!! And everyone will be happier than they are now - because as they are putting the 'clean' dishes away, some just would go right back into the sink - and now that should not happen. I guess after 10 yrs, it's okay it wants out of here!!!

This is the start to step 5 of the Jelly Roll mystery. Hmmm, not very flattering.... but this is not how I will sew them, they were just put up there. I have a few rows to play with and the yellow is very strong..... eh, it will be bright and sunny and my daughters made a comment about the blue yesterday being water and I thought "Sunshine and Rain" should be this quilts name!!

This pattern is fun to do. I honestly thought the big pieces we made would be being cut up into smaller ones, then pieces together again!! But nope - you use as is and it is a quick quilt project!! And a baby quilt would be fun, so would a Christmas one - was thinking doing some blks all red, others in greens and the background in creams and golds....... And I wounder why I start so many things!! I want to see what they would look like in 'real life' and not just a picture on a page!!!

And on the Rush Hour game, I am on the 3rd deck, which when I opened it, my last game would have been #27. It has me stumped right now on #6!! I will get through it though, did before, I will again!!

Put your thinking caps on and answer this question to find out more of who you are....

6) What activities do you like to do?

Well, not house work, and I have to do a little before the crew comes to switch out dishwashers, so I have to get off here!!

But I will be thinking of things I like to do. To get my creativity up and feel that energy that comes when I just have to do something!! Shop Hopping with friends!!! That is one activity I love to do!!! How 'bout you!?

Plans today

2011-11-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

Last night, I could not help myself. I found a pattern for a table runner that I had printed off. It is a Christmas one called "Christmas Stars Runner" - well. It looks easy. Quick to do, so.... yup. I started to go through my fabrics. And I did not come across anything that I liked. It was okay, but not, eh... right. So, I changed tactics. Why does it have to be in the greens and reds like the pattern? Well, it doesn't! So, look at your fabrics with a new eye then, and what do you see??? This!!! The background (cream) will be the light, variegated purple pinkish fabric. The star center will be the purple stars (for some reason I love this fabric!!! This pic does not make it look very good, but I really like it!!) The red part is now the pink and the green star point is the purple with the snowflakes on it!! It's only November and this will last through January too!!! I do not have to put it away because it's "Christmas" stuff!!! And, if I do find it as easy as I think it will be - I can make one just for Christmas then!! (oh heck, why not make one for Halloween too!! ) Birthday celebrations, everyday star runner...... see what happens when I let myself play!! No wounder I have so many UFO's (and like alien fabrics so much!!).

Today, I plan on sewing - all day!!! (lets see how that goes!!). On the Rush Hour game, I am on Deck two, card #32. Eight more cards then I am onto deck 3!! The limo deck!! I have played some of deck 3, but I have not finished it yet. I have not even opened #4, so this will be fun. Then what am I going to do???

5) What is fun for you and not work?

Going to craft shows was my first though on this question!!! We have the Butterdome Festival here in December. And I had heard about it for years, but one day, the girls had their ortho appointments early that morning, and as we left, I asked them if they would like to go check out this 'butterdome' things, if I could find it?? Well, I am so glad they said yes, because for me, it is heaven!!!! I have gone every year since, on the first day and I won't miss it!! I take the girls out of school so they can come to and we go look at all the things artists from across this country have done and it magical!! The things I see, the energy I get from the displays, the excitement I feel in the room........ it's my own personal little happy drug!!! And I love it.

But does he mean when you are at work, what is fun and not 'work'?? Then that is a different question!! Then, that would be, when I was working, talking to the customers. Helping them get what they need.

But seriously, even in a 'chore' you do not like, there is something okay about it that is okay to do....... that makes it bearable. That can get you through doing it!! For me, one job I absolutely HATED, the only thing that got me through the day was, as soon as I got there, I would tell myself I was almost done. Yup, you are almost finished. Oh, look, it's almost time to go home ---- even when it was still 7-8 hrs away........ And it made the job easier because I could go home in a few minutes!!!! I only had a few more minutes to go, then I am outta here!!!!

Daylight Savings Time

2011-11-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Are you in an area where you have to turn your clocks back? And did you remember to do it last night?? Yesterday, I commented on how dark it was at 8am, well, today, it's bright again!! Funny how that happens!! So, if you have not done it, change your clocks back!!!

Yesterday, I finished the card deck that comes with the Rush Hour game I told you about on Friday. And I made a mistake, I said I had 4 extra decks, no, I have 3, extra decks!! It's 4 decks all together. The 2nd set has a convertible red car to play with, 3rd is a limo! and the 4the deck has a Taxi that you have to get out of the grid lock!! And that seems appropriate!! I really enjoy this puzzle game and yes, it would make a great Christmas gift for anyone!! I remember my daughter and her friend working on them together one day! They were in what?? Grade 4? (they are both graduated and the friend is now a mother herself so, yes, I have had this game awhile!!)

And yesterday, when I was doing my 20 minutes of sewing, and that was ALL I was going to do, well, I didn't stop when the buzzer went off! (yes, I do time myself!! especially for when I fall behind - I want to make sure I have actually done my 'time'!! And not cheat!!) That makes it sound like sewing is prison time!!! But either way, it makes a HUGE difference in my productivity!! So, since this is working for me, I am going to stick with it!!

Anyways, here is my Step 4 from the Jelly Roll Mystery I am still doing!! But, I have pulled out step 5 last night and it's is not what I thought!!! Remember, I didn't peek, so it kinda surprised me!!!   I will be working on that today.

And so, we are here again:   the question of the day!! I don't know 'bout you, but these questions are hard for me!!   And so this one,

4) What really tuns you on???

to me, it's the same as 'what are you passionate about?? And I had trouble with that one!! Which tells me, I have got to get to know myself!! And why am I hiding - or better yet - what am I hiding???

What turns me on? What excites me? Well,  different things at different times. I left my guild last year - 2010 - and I was told this year when they were starting up again, that I was coming back, kicking and screaming, I was coming back!!    I guess they miss me there, I had a couple people tell me this - things are, different, quieter, I don't know, I am not there!! But I do know if I see something I like, I am excitable about it!! Animated I guess you could say. Ah, I'll admit it!! I let the joy out!!!   And I am not always quiet about it either!! Like a little kid in the candy store, I have to see what's going on!!!

But, what really turns me on? Gets the energy flowing, the ideas flying, the excitement to build..... Good question. I will think on it today.....

Morning!!!

2011-11-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

It is dark here still at 8am - I have to turn on lights!!! And the heater keeps kicking in, so that is not a good sign either!! I am thinking it's starting to turn into that cold white season I am not really looking forward too!
I heard yesterday, they had snow in Calgary, and even around us up here, but we have not had any in our yard yet - but the temps are down...... So, it will be happening soon!

Today Question:

How do you want to spend your time?

Hmmmm. This is a good one. I would love to spend my time exploring - going on adventures, day trips, doing things I have not done. At home I would like to spend it playing board games with my family, have fun dinners where everyone chips in, and then I am seeing myself outdoors, around a campfire (well, not NOW, in this weather!! But in summer and stuff!!!) I guess, just connecting with the people I love, meeting more and learning more about the world we live in. I want to spend my time living, doing things I want to do.

And that is my 'short' answer!!

Have a fun Saturday - lets go sew!!!

Friday!! Could it be Movie Night then???

2011-11-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

On Friday's when the girls were little - we do 'movie night'!! We, I mean "I", would plan a snack food or two, we would all have picked our show from home, or gone to the video store, and then we would park ourselves in front of the TV and go on an adventure!!!
Good memories. Fun times!!! And now, we do not do that so much anymore..... but it is Friday!! Snack night and good times can still be had!!! I might just make popcorn for dinner and call it good!!!

Okay, on to more fun things! Have you ever gone to Thousands of Bolts? Well, I found them the other day when someone had mentioned that they liked their service and the prices were good. So, I found myself playing yesterday!! Oops!! And today I get an email that they are having a sale!!! I should have waited!!! But then again, maybe they would have been out of what I ordered.... yeah, that makes me feel better!!!

I have now bought a selection of 'reds' for Bonnie Hunter's new mystery coming up on the 18th - I am excited to be doing this!! (me, who was not going to start anything new??!! That is not working out very well!!! But I am having fun!!!). And I also got some blacks as I do not have a wide selection of that one either. I shop for what I like, not in colour categories, but I am thinking I am going to have start re-thinking that plan!!!

And here is another thing I have been doing - have you ever played the game Rush Hour?? It's a puzzle game, where you lay your pieces on a grid, the red car is you, and you have to find a way out of the mess??

This is where I finally left it last night, at midnight!!! It's an addictive little game!! I set up card #29 - and went to bed!!! How will I get the red car free???
I am not worried, I've done the first deck before, so I know it's do-able. My daughter asked me why I was not playing at the card deck I am actually on (I have 4 other decks for this game, and realized last night, the last deck has not even been opened yet!!! Exciting!!!) I told her, I have not played in so long, I am just going to start over from the beginning. And my other reason?? I bought my sister this yesterday, and when she phones to ask for help - I will know what she is talking about!!! And this would make a great gift for anyone of any age!!! The one I bought yesterday was just over $20 and I mean it's hours of play here!!

And on to today's question. Put your creative thinking caps on and answer this one today. It should be easier than yesterdays:

When you wake up what do you wish you could be doing?

Good question!! That will be interesting to see what answers you get!! Me, it would be looking at beautiful mountains and at the lake outside my house as I drink my morning tea and eat my breakfast, but, that is not were I am at right now. This is a wish list. Not how it 'really is' - so today, go dream of what you would like to do when you wake up!!!!

Thursday - All Day!!

2011-11-03T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I figured out what to say today. I was reading my Costco magazine that they send in the mail and sometimes the articles can catch my eye. This one did. It was in the business section, but this is not about business so much as the people running the business, which, well, is the business. I don't know about you, but when I shop, I shop more for how I feel in the store then anything else, so yes, customer service (or lack there of....) makes a difference to me! So, enough of that - on to the questions!

This is where I got these questions from - I am going to post them one a day! Give you time to think about them. I was thinking the first one was easy, till I started to write down what my answer was.... So. Find your genius inside you and:

#1 - What are you passionate about?

I have actually wrote this on a 4x6 recipe card to take with me today as I do all my running around, so when something hits me, I can just jot it down!! Because, I thought, oh, this is easy.... and when I thought about what lights my fire, keeps me up at night because I just can't put it down, nothing really came to mind. And it makes me wounder, how deep have I buried all my dreams???
What is my passion?? Sure I 'like' things, but am I passionate about them??? There are times when I loose time working on something, but that is not all the time and not often either......

Time to get myself going. I have a busy morning ahead of me and then lunch with my big sister!!! So gotta go!!!

Wednesday - And I am back!!

2011-11-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

I am starting out today by getting my crock pot all set up with this Taco Soup - found on Stephanie O'Dea's site! When I told my family I was making this (I had just gotten Stephanie's book "Make it Fast, Cook it Slow" - I got some funny looks. I made it anyway and it was a HIT!! So, today, I am making it again and that way, no matter what I do (or don't do....) I have supper made!! And you can eat it whenever you are ready to - or not!! This makes great leftovers!!!

The rest of my day - Working on the jelly roll mystery I told you about yesterday. I was - still am, on step 4, and today, I will finish that step, then move onto the end steps......

And I bought myself a Cutting Edge ruler. One quilt shop I was at this summer told me they have been using them for cutting their fabrics and that they are not going through rotary blades like they used to since they started using these rulers so...... I got myself a 6.5"x12.5". Tried it for the first time last night..... It makes a scratchy sound as you cut that takes a minute to get used to and the numbers are different..... I am very used to Omni Grid and this is not the same!!! But, I think it will be okay. I bought it mostly to see if it would keep the blade sharp, and for cutting up my scraps!! Oh, that link will take you to a Pat Sloan demonstration of the rulers!! enjoy!!

November 1st - Wow, been awhile!

2011-11-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

I thought I would come on here and say 'hi' - not my idea, but one I read when I was blog hopping the afternoon!! And found this!!- well, she is doing a challenge to blog everyday........ hmmmmm. So this is why I am here!!

And while I am here, show you what I have done, well, a couple pics anyway.... got my camera back (stole it back!! just for this!!!) and memory is full after 3 pics!! So, here they are:

This brown basket quilt (and I am not a basket fan but LOVE THIS!!!!) was a mystery I did over the summer, just to get me back sewing.... which I tend to not do - bad habit #1.

I am still doing my 20 minutes of sewing a day - totally caught up till hubby came home... guilt I guess. I don't know. He LIKES seeing me in there, so I do not know why, when he's home, I change....... Bad habit #2....

I do have border ideas for this little guy, and after I read this I know I have to get a few things done around here!!! The link takes you to Bonnie Hunters new MYSTERY!!! She is calling it Orca Bay, and I am going to have to do some shopping for it!! I have the blues, and some background, but I do not have many reds or blacks so..... what's a girl to do???

(Besides clean up my room I mean!!!!)

And here is another Mystery I am working on - it's all finished now, it was a one-day fun time, but I am only on Step 4 - and so is my friend who did it with me!! Does not make me feel better though!! She's been busy, I have not!!!!

These are the main blks - well, the backgrounds have been cut out of the pic - but this is the main component. Even though I have printed off the last steps - I did not peek!! So, I still don't know what I am doing after I finish this step:

This is the future border of this project.... I think it has to much yellow in it, but if winter ever does come (and it's okay if it doesn't!!!) I might like how happy it looks with all the yellows!!!
So, my main reason for blogging today is - what bad habits do you have that you would like to change??

Me, I have already told you two - and I have more.... and one is not blogging... I love to read, but feel I don't have much to share/show or talk about so, I stay quiet......... This month, I will work on changing that. Plus, - well, another reason I don't come on here is it takes me FOREVER to write this!!! I loose my pics, I keep working at getting them to go where I want and.... It's all a learning curve, I am ready to drive!!!

And my worse habit? Dare I admit it??? It's not like you can't tell, but I hate housework!!!!

So, that is another habit that I will change this month. Well, I probably will still not like it, but the habit I am talking about is - pretending I don't see it!! This month, I will see it and I will do something about it!!!!

And then, when I am working on my new mystery (along with my other projects - they will be done as leader and enders!!!) I might enjoy my tidy, organized sewing area even more!!!! (habit #5?? are we there yet, or passed it???? Well, it's not cleaning up after myself in my room - I just push it aside and move on......)

I have a friend who is going through some tough times and I tell her it's all in the habits we keep. And when I hear myself tell her that, I know that I am also speaking to myself. So, it's a new year coming up, and now is a good as time as any to work on making real changes in my life. If not not now - when??? So, how 'bout now? My plans are to get myself organized and pick up what I see needs it. Get things done, not just think about it. I CAN do it, so I will.

I love to see what people are working on and I should let others see what I do too!!

On a little different note: here is a piece of Trivia. I just heard this on the radio yesterday. I live in Alberta, near Edmonton, and I guess this area has not had a snow free October since 1963.

So, now it's October 2011 - that was a 48 year record that just got broken. hmmmmmm - has this area ever had a snow free November?????

if when I stick to my 'new' plan - I'll talk to you tomorrow!!!

Almost September.... Are you ready for it???

2011-08-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

Oh this is being a fun day - it's already 1 o'clock and I have NOT gotten anything done yet!! OH, yes I have - dinner is is the crock pot!! I have Stephanie's blog sent to me and when I saw this, I had to make it!! So the Chicken Pizza is my - hmmm, 'our' supper tonight. Now all I have to do is add veggies and call it good!!

I have been sewing and am almost caught up on my mystery. Plan was to get Step 7 done today - I will (had better!!) get a good chunk done today!! And if not, I will have it done by next Thursday!! I think we might be putting the mess of blks we've made together then and I am really looking forward to that!!

And I have been working on my ribbon Halloween blks!!

These blks go together very easily and I think look really nice - well, pretend it's a Christmas fabric I used and the ribbon reads more solid!!! But as it's a Halloween project, and it's not ment to be 'pretty' - I like it!! And it's busy!!! But fun!! 10 blks so far - a few more to go and then off to Barbara's and see if she can fit me in so I will have it in time for this spooky season!! That would be one trick, but it would certainly be a treat for me if it happens!!!! (uh, hmmm - WHEN it happens!!!)

And have you ever hear of Lampe Berger?? Well, I hadn't till a few weeks ago, and then I was in my new favorite green house (yeah!!) and they have a display of these lamps. It was explained to me and I kept thinking about it... and yesterday, I bought myself one!!! This is made in France and it's a way of cleaning the air. With pretty scents or no scent at all!! My scent, for today anyway is: Creme Brulee. It is nice, although I am using it full strength, I think next time I will also add the neutral that I got with the lamp!! I like it, and some scents can give me a headache, so I was very glad that this one didn't!!

It is not a candle!!! What you do is fill up the Lampe Berger lamp with the oil that you choose - they have some wonderful scents!! I am looking forward to picking out my next one!! And then you put the wick in the bottle, let the wick sit in the oil for a min of 20 minutes and then you light the stones at the top. Let the flame burn for 2 minutes, then BLOW IT OUT!!!! That's the trick to this system - the stones stay hot and bring the oil up the wick and your room smells wonderful!!! You cover the stone with a cap that has holes it it, it lets in air and lets out the smell..... There in no flame, so don't forget it's 'on' !!! When you are done with it, you take off the open cap and put on the solid one - it stops the air from getting in, cools off the stone and shut it off. I am so glad I bought this!!! I have in my sewing room right now - to clean the air in there!! I shut the door now, keeps the cat and his hair out!! At least while he is shedding like he is, but the room has a 'fabric' smell to it that I am not fond of!!! So, we will see what it's like after a day of being de-oderized. Or should I say re-oderized!!

At Christmas, I could see filling my lamp with ginger or another festive flavour!! And - well, there are just so many choices! I want to get another one!!!!

I have made more letters -I do them between my blks, leader and ender style!! Soon I will have words and the wall hanging process will begin!! I am so glad that the bus trip/adventure is finally here - tomorrow!! And on my list is black fabric, so I will have more background for my project. White letters on a black background....

I feel like a little kid again learning how to make letters!!
But I am having so much fun with them, and I will keep on!! One day I will have words in my borders and a whole hanging of words, like the 'Joy' hanging in the book! I LOVE that one and one day I just might have made on myself.......

And I received a surprise today in the mail!!! Thank-You Sandie!!! She knows I am saving little fabrics to do a colorwash quilt. And these she has sent for my collection!! Huge Hugs to you!! Thank-You so much!! My collection is growing, and it's kinda fun to peek in there and see so many pieces - I wounder what I will eventually make. Abstract?? Scene?? Find a picture and re-do it in fabric?? I am not sure, but we will see!! This is a 'someday' project. You need alot of fabric for it - or should I say, 2" pieces for it, and one book said do not use the same fabric twice in a project, so that is definitly a future idea, but one day, it will happen!!!

And before I go, I was on Bonnie Hunter's blog today and I checked out Patchwork Posee, and yes, I joined it!! It's free to join and sounds interesting..... So, this is how I am spending my day - blog hopping and just really enjoying myself!! Now to go sew in my nice smelling room!!!

Hapy Birthday Sis!!

2011-08-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

This day in my sisters birthday! So have a good one Barb!!

Anyways, I have pics to show!! Daughter had my camera, and she gave it back so I could take these!! Yeah!! I am still thinking I will find myself a little one that no one knows about, but that will wait! I have things to show you!!!

Here is my January Stars!! told you it was done - and yes, it's been used!!! The pattern is "Morning Stars" and I am sure it's from a nickel book - but I've also seen it other places. I just know it was started in Januray of '09 and it was because a web friend was making it too, so we thought we would do it 'together'!!! Winters are cold here and never seem to end, so I wanted a bright happy quilt. I pulled out all my flowere nickels and made sure to use yellow for the stars!! And here is the finished bound product!!!

The back!! Love flannel, but am thinking of maybe starting to use fleece....hmmmm.....

I also have this to show you!! I used to do alot of cross stich and just loved this pattern!! When working on it, I knew I wanted to make a wall hanging - well, the fabrics I had for it were, lets just say, not right. As I was cleaning my room I found a box that I didn't know what was in there - this was one of them, with the way-to-busy prints still almost attached!! The only original fabric is the candy right beside it - the first border!! And I was going to bind it in black, but the purple litteraly fell on it (from the above quilt - left overs!!!) and with the purple in the cross stich it's perfect!!! I now have a fun hanging for this halloween!!

(ignore the pins - I will take them off!!)

Which bring up the whys of my next picture..... Myra, of "Tactile Pleasures" is hosting a Mystery!! One of her requirements is - you make 3 -12" blks- your choice, before you start. Well, that is interesting. It's a mystery, you have no idea what she has up her sleeve and it's your choice of fabrics..... No, stop thinking about it and go work on what you've already got going.

That is why I made this blk!!! I decided not to do the mystery, but I still wanted to check out this block!Well, I do not like it!! Even though I put all the fabrics together to see if it would look good (and I thought it was okay!!) once I made up the block - not so much!!!! But, then I made 3 more!! If one is yucky - why not try again!! And know what, it does looks better with friends!! (don't we all!!)

I now have another project on the go!! Surprised??? lol!

One good thing though, it's another way to use my new Triangulations CD that I bought when I listened to Sandie!! She is also working on the mystery from an earlier post and told me it would be a good thing to use!! She was right!!! And since I keep seeing more and more ways to use it - Thanks again Sandie!!! It is a good investment!!!

Speaking of the mystery!! I am almost caught up!! I have the proof here:

This is step 5 - not in bags like she says to do, but for now this is working!!! (I don't have bags!! could use plasic and probably will, but for the few blks I made last night, this is fine!!!)

Now this is my version of a STACKED POSIE quilt!! I was out with friends when I saw this fabric and didn't buy it - well, my freind was going back to the store the next day, and I told her

if this fabric was there, would she grab it for me??? And the rest is history!!! It's a fun, bright, happy quilt full of aliens coming at you from all directions!!! And all it needs now is me to bind it up right and it's a done project!!!
T

his is it's backing - an off center 4 patch!!! I have enough fabric for a matching pillow case so, this is just fun!!!!
And speaking of fun - I have a Christmas gift to show you!!!

Yup, it's back and all it needs is binding!!! It does feel good to get things on the finish line!! NOW to just get the OVER it!!! Here is the back - I think it looks pretty good!!

And my last pic to show you is what I was working on last night!! I am learing my alphabet!!!

Yes, I am making myself a wall hanging, and this is the first word in it!! the 'k's are ineresting - I have 3 to make all togher, made 2 last night, but I have an idea for the next one - make it more 'K' like!! uhmmm, get it's front leg to touch the ground!! And if you look at the 'a' and the 'e' - they are the same!!! Just flip them around!! These are from "Word Play Quilts" by Tonya Ricucci. And it's fun!! When you are making a quilt for anybody, you can put their name right in the border - or title it!! And 'Eye Spy Quilt' with that right on the top would let you know exaclty what it is!!!

I bought my copy from Bonnie Hunter when I bought her last book and I am glad I did!! I love to have fun in the sewing room, and now I can 'write' it all down!!!

Have the very best day you can!! Even though I had to do this post twice - and almost didn't.... I am glad I did!! I wanted to show you what I have been up to and probably will be up to..... Yes, Myra, count me in on the mystery tour!!!!!

Penguins

2011-07-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

----- I never knew this. Penguins.
Did you ever wonder why there are no dead penguins on the ice in Antarctica - where do they go?

Wonder no more ! ! !
It is a known fact that the penguin is a very ritualistic bird which lives an extremely ordered and complex life.

The penguin is very committed to its family and will mate for life, as well as maintaining a form of compassionate contact with its offspring throughout its life.

If a penguin is found dead on the ice surface, other members of the family and social circle have been known to dig holes in the ice, using their vestigial wings and beaks, until the hole isdeep enough for the dead bird to be rolled into and buried.

The male penguins then gather in a circle around the fresh grave and sing:

"Freeze a jolly good fellow"
"Freeze a jolly good fellow."

Then they kick him in the ice hole....

You really didn't believe that I know anything about penguins, did you?It's so easy to fool OLD people. I am sorry, but I fell for it too.

Uh Oh!!!

2011-07-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

I was just blog hopping, something that I have not been doing and - well, guess what I found..... another one of my weakness'es!!! A Mystery!! And it's going to start here soon....! July 14th.
http://thecraftyunicornquilting.blogspot.com/2011/07/anyone-up-for-mystery.html

I am, as of yesterday, in my room cleaning up (again.....) and thought I would come on here and read the blogs I have not been reading. Lots of cool things going on, and I was enjoying myself, till I got to The Crafty Unicorn...... and read "Anyone up for a Mystery?!

I love to play. Mysterys are fun!!! They use up fabric - fabric that I have been cutting, and sorting and moving around and - a MYSTERY!!!! That would help use it up!! That would lessen the load, so to speak!!! (ignore the fact that it is starting something 'new'!! Starting something is not on my list of 'things to do'.....cleaning up, and organizing and sorting and de-cluttering is. That is HUGE on my list, but a MYSTERY!!!!! Not knowing what it will be, the fun of finding out - the loving it at the end!!!! or not..... but that won't happen here!!!!)

So, all my sewing friends - want to join me on doing a Mysterty Quilt this month?????

What else do you have to do??? The mosquito's here are insane, the weather has been rainy, hence why I am on the computer and not outside like I love....... and cleaning my badly neglected sewing room - where I am not starting anything!!....... At least, not until July 14th!!!

Hello!!

2011-05-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Spring is really here!! I am enjoying the flowers hanging around in the stores - seeing all those pretty colours just makes me smile!!

AND - I have found 3 more quilting buddies!! I have joined an aqua class, and found them there!! As we swim around the pool - and I don't know about them, but I feel like a 5 yr old who's playing in the big pool - we got talking quilting....... and then they invited me to their 'Friday Sew-In' - and I went! And had fun!! And because of that - I came home and last weekend I sewed on the binding to my January Stars!!! Yeah!!! This quilt is only 2.5 yrs old, and it's done!!!!

It is my curl up and watch a movie throw!! And, I have bought the binding for my next quilt that I need to bind. Then, I am caught up with Barbra - and ready for the next 4 she has for me!!!

My sewing room is still in disarray, but I am happy with the progress. And it's been fun to find 'lost' things!!

As I am sorting, I am also creating kit boxes, complete with pattern and what I have found that would work with it!! And it's fun to plan. I am creating a kit for Bonnie Hunters "I Spy" quilt. Found a white fabric (surprised me!! I do not use white....... hmmmmm. Did I buy it for something and don't remember??? Oh well, it's going to be in the "I spy" now!!!) And now with my new sewing friends, I will have fun projects to take to our sew-in days!! (see how I have included myself!! lol!!)

And I am finishing. I realized how much fun (besides the pain caused in my sewing finger - I really need to find my thimble!! I used a band-aid, but a thimble would probably be better. Although, the reason I don't use it is it alway falls off!! I need to get used to it I guess.....) I liked how it felt to have my January Stars done....... and now, I have a few more projects, some, most I should say, still in the blk phase, that need to be sewn into tops...... summer project.

But right now, I have a commitment to Myra - 4 projects done by June. And, I have them sitting in my way, every time I am in my sewing room, and that is really my next project. GET these to Barbara!! They may not be done by June, but once Barbara has them, I am totally commited to making them real quilts........ Look at January Stars!! Only one of my 4 projects need to be worked on - to get it ready for the trip to the quilters, so look at me go!!!

I am lovin' life!!!

Wounderful Weekend!

2011-04-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

This is what got me back into my sewing room!!! I made my first mug rug!! Out of selvages!!! Isn't it cute??! lol!! I love it and it was so much fun to make!! Have I used it yet?? NO!!!!! I love it so clean and pristeen - I don't want it dirty!! But I did set my mug on it, and pretended I had a snack, and if (when!!) I make another, I think I will go a bit more of a rectangual shape, insted of square..... But I do really like it!!

I am cleaning up my disaster area..... and wow, that is a full time job - BUT!! (and this is exciting!!) I found more of a purple I thought I was out of - and it will make the best binding for a quilt I got back from my quilter!!! I knew I had two strip pieces, enough to start a binding but not even close to enough to do the quilt. I had already put a couple smaller pieces of fabric close the right color, to make a 'scrappy binding', in a pile to use when I did get down to makeing this binding - BUT - I did not realize till I just moved a pile of fabrics, that I have a large piece of the fabric I wanted to use!!!!! I now have enough to bind my quilt!!! And probably left overs... ( could I make a pillow case?? Okay Brenda, lets not go crazy here!!! lol!) My weekend project - bind this quilt!!

And keep organzing this room. Organizing will win out over binding the quilt - I need to get it cleaned up so I have room to do the cutting I have to do. But, I am so happy to have found that material!!!

This is another of my quick projects - I actually made two of these!! Tea Holders for my purse!! I love my tea and now, I get to neatly take some of my favorites with me!!! So cute!! And fun! And when I get myself organized and together, I will make these as little gifts. Throw it in your glove box, in a mug for a friend - perfect for traveling..... yup, I love it!!

That is one of my sewing "problems" - I want to see what it looks like live and in person, so I have to try one myself...... but problems arise when you don't finish or just move on to something else when you bought enough materials to make a few more....... I am done with clutter.

Right now, I am cutting up my bits and pieces into Bonnie Hunters Scrap Savers system. Some of my pieces that I am making, I am woundering when/if I will use them - BUT - since I do use Bonnie's patterns, I am sure, since she cuts these sizes that she also designs for them!! They will get used.

I was at my LQS today (we have one now in town now. She has been here awhile, but I do forget she's here.....!) and since she knows me, she asked me if I had any scraps to give to the store as a donation. When I told her what I was doing with my scraps, she kinda laughed and said, "People that do that never use them".... Well, I guess I really didn't like the little laugh that followed this statement. I will use them - maybe not all of them, but, I do scrap quilts. Scrappy is my preference - I love the look of them and how much fun I have making them. (okay, the tops!!! I am working on the finishing okay!!!) And if/when I do find I have to many, I will gladly donate to anyone who wants/needs them.

Guess what else I have started and it's so much fun??!! I have joined an Aqua class at a pool!! I feel like a 5 year old in the 'big' pool, splashing around and laughing!!! And I met a fellow quilter last night!!! We kept talking and sharing stories as we spashed around and at the end, we shared phone numbers!! I think that is great!!! We had seen each other in the pool, but didn't really talk until last night!

2 questions for you: 1) is fleece a good backing fabric to use for our quilts??? She used it and asked me what I thought. Well, I've never used it for a backing, never thought about it - I always think fannel when I am thinking of quilts, so I want to know what you think...

and 2) even though my new 'rule' is not to start anything new, uhem, uh, well, when a person is cutting up their scraps into useable pieces, so they can clean up their area, is, uh, well, cutting up said fabrics for certain future project, well, is that 'starting something' or is it just being smart???

(please say smart, please say smart, oh my, please say I am not being bad....!) ;-)

Okay all my friends out there in this wounderful world, have yourself a very Happy Easter!!! May the bunny be good to you and your hunt bring you all the treasure you want!! Don't over do it on the eggs but make them all the prettiest ones you've ever seen!!! And if you are lucky in the weather department like the news has said we will be, may the sun shine bright on you all weekend too!!!!

It has been a slow spring, but I am sure liking it when I can sit outside on a chair and not get cold!! And I put up a bird house.... fingers crossed on this one. I had a house in the same spot and birds would come check it out, but not move in..... it was plastic. This one, it's wood. I hope someone likes it 'cause I loved having birds in my yard!

I am changing habits and loving life!! How are you?!!! Love ya!! ~Brenda!!

Election?? AGAIN!?!!

2011-03-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Well, just turned on the news - guess who gets to go vote AGAIN!

This is crazy - insane - and I have had enough already. I am voting - PC - again, like I have every time they make us go back and spend more money on this 'election' thing. How many millions are spent to see who we want in office?? More than one I am sure, and to me, these people who talk about 'wasting' money, and how they could do so much better - yeah, I see how you are saving Canadians their hard earned money - by making us go again, to vote. And if the past any indication, the party that is in, will be the same pary when the dust settles..... and all their talk is just a waste of air.......... and our money............

that's just my opinion - please I am just tired of these childish games........

I am sewing again!!!

2011-03-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, what confusion...... I do not blog regularly, as you know, so today, when I came to come on here - I could not get on!!! After re-setting my password and all that stuff, I still couldn't get on here!!! ahem, or so I thought........

Yes, I can put on a new post, I just have to realize I can play with more than one post now - I am a guest on a couple others now - and for some reason my brain let me think that what I was looking at was my blogs that I am following!!!!

Uh, no, it's my blog and here I am!!

On Thursday, I went with my guild (I was told that I am coming back......!!) and we had a 'field trip' to a LQS - one that I used to go to regulary (and I guess I was asked about when my friend went in there, so I guess I had better get back on the sewing band wagon then!!)this is a pattern I found called "Domino's" - and this is now the next day!! When I wrote that, I got kicked off my blog and could not get back on!!! And so, just a minute ago, I thought, I am ready to try to get on here again, and look at this!! First try and I got let on!!!! Miracle!!! (I think those above heard my frustrtaion yesterday and had a meeting and said, she is having enough trouble today, lets give her a break!!) So, here I am!!

This is my spring table runner, spray adhesive glue (505?) on the flannel middle and the backing and it will stay togetlher while I try my first 'real' attempt at machine quilting....... (feel the fear, really feel it, and then just do it!!!!!) I was planning on having it done by weekend end, but hubby came home and I want to - ahem....... have to use my big machine (which got cleaned a year ago........... yeah......) and now I have finally put it back where it belongs and am going to sew with it again. Not good - I know!! But it will last longer this way....... DON'T THROW THINGS AT ME!!!!!!! My big machine is back in the saddle and the baby one is being put away till I go to classes, like she was bought for!

So this pic shows my backing. I like it!! The binding is the same as the border. I am still in snow up here in wounderland and I am ready for spring!!! Guess what!! Today, the temp is so nice (Thursday, you just climbed into your coat and pulled it tight, the wind was so cold, oh, awful!!!) that the snow is melting!!!! (I am not going to think of the ice it is going to be creating because the weather man says the cold is coming back!!! it make for some fun days!!!)

Sandie - do you recognize any fabrics in this????

And, just to update you, yes, I had Zoe put down. It got to the point where she could not walk anymore, so I knew it was time to let her go. It was funny though - my daughters got her in the car, we drove over to the vets, and we could not get her out of the car!! Even though she has lost 20 pounds she is still not easy to move!!!!! Anyways I go into the vets to see if they have something to help bring her in, and the girls got her out!! The lady did bring out a strecher, and Zoe walked in the door!!! As soon as she got in though, she did a heavy sigh and layed down!!! We all laughed! It was like, I am here and I am done, so this is it! We got her on the strecher and the rest is history. Loved that dog.

And because dinner is ready, I am going to go and eat. OH! Here is some good news!! I can walk around my room!!! (now notice I didn't say all around my room, but there is places to move now, and I like it!!!!!)

Bye till next time!!!

Friday, and all is well....

2011-02-11T08:51:00.000-08:00

It's been over a month since I have wrote. And things have changed!!

This is Zoe. She will be 13 in April, but I am not sure she will still be with us then...... she looks good in this picture - but right now, she won't eat and we have to - well, she gets sick sometimes at night, and that is not fun to wake up to. I have taken her to the vet - he put her on pills and they seemed to be helping somewhat - she was eating, and being able to move. Then, we slowly weened her off them (3 weeks she was on them: 6 pills for 5 days, then down to 3 for 5 days, 2/5days, 1/5 days , and now they are done.... and she is back to not being able to lift herself up off the ground and...... she walks by her food and won't eat it. So, this is new. Not good new, but new.

And I have been to Orlando!! First time in many years I left Cananda!!!! And they have flowers growing there!! OUTSIDE!!!!! and people swimming in the outdoor pools!!!! To be able to sit around an outdoor pool in January was cool enough - but to have someone swimming in it!!! yup, I am going back!!!

But, the day before I was leaving to go to Orlando, I was a work and then was asked if I could go the office after work. Since I didn't jump at the chance and hesitatated, I don't think that impressed him much!!! My daughter and I share my car and I had to remember if she had it, or did I? And if she had it, was someone else coming to get me after work since she was not the one coming in.... things I was not expecting to have to know at the drop of a hat. Turns out, yes, I could come to the office when I was done. And - I was fired!!

I think that the relief I felt probably showed, it sure didn't upset me!! I had already been trying to get ready to come back to work after this trip, and what days I had to be there for....... Anyways, I think it's his loss. Peole have told me that they come to this store just because I am there - people I don't even know!!! Store was slow enough already, now I wounder how it is......... Oh well, I have been jobless since the start of January, about a month now - and I miss working........

No, I have not been creative. And I have not been reading blogs. Not alot of TV watching either. Hmmmm. What have I been doing??? lol! I am going to Vancouver the begining of March to visit with my sister. Taking a freind along. And I will be seeing green grass and probably flowers........ We will still have snow and all that white stuff not melting, so it will be fun to see grass!! And rain - Vancouver and it's rain!! But I will be seeing mountains...... I love the mountains! Am trying to decide if I should go to Kelowna and then Vancouver or not........ Hear West Jet has a seat sale on - I really need to go check this out instead of just thinking about it!!!

I just felt that I needed to come on and up-date you of my non-creative life!!! Right now, I feel like I have so many balls in the air and I don't know where they are going to land. My oldest has moved out, sorta! She is being a live-in nanny for friends of ours - and she has weekends off, so she comes home. How long will this last? 3 yrs was first mentioned but who knows. The one cool thing, they live in the country and she, as of yesterday, has a car of her own!! She is not sure exactly how this works, but, she needed something to drive the kids back and forth with and he supplied her a car!! So, that is really nice! She took me out for lunch to show it off and to celebrate I think!!

Oh! I guess I am being a bit 'creative'. I am making myself a 'dream board'. What do I want, where do I want to be and how can I make it possible! So, in that sense, figuring out where/what and how, I guess I am letting my imagination fly!! I am also de-junking my house..... at least that is what I am telling myself.......... It's amazing how much "stuff" I have picked up over the years. And I do not want to leave this mess to anyone else!! I know why I have this - no one else would!! So, I had better do what I was planninng or get rid of it!!

And, I have to stop collecting books!!! I love my books and yesterday, I added to my collection!! I am reading the autobiography of Nelson Mandella. It's a big book, and it's not one I would normally read, but it will be intersting. I always ask myself, in times of trouble, what would you do? And I have no idea!! So, I am going to read this and see what he did, 'cause his life has not been easy. He was born in 1918!!!!! WOW!!! I always think of my Grandma B. She was born in 1900 - by 1918, she was married and had a least one of her 12 children!! Elvira was born 9 months after the wedding!!! And by the time Grandma B. was done having her kids, her daughters were already starting families of their own!!

okay, I am off to clean up my room!! Hubby is coming home on Tuesday, and I think the room should not have my stuff all over like it is!! When I told him I had better clean off the bed, he asked me if I was putting my books there!! He knows I read at night and it's just easier to put them on his side then on the side table!! On the side table, since I have 4 hanging around at all times it seems, they like to fall off!!!! Okay - TMI!!!!

Have a Happy Valentines Day on Monday (or just pick any 'ol day you like and celebrate it then!! heck, lets make next week a whole Valentines Day celebration!! Let everyone know you love 'em and give them all cards!!!!! All the best!! Take care!

I am at work- shhhhhh, don't tell anyone I am on the computer!!

2011-01-04T13:37:00.000-08:00

Hello!!! It is snowing outside!! Pretty white flakes, falling to the ground - and it is just nice... to be inside I mean!!!
I have sewn every day since the 1st!! Even last night, when I realized at 9 that I hadn't yet, and hubby gave me a neo-citran (the one that helps you sleep!!!), I still managed to get up and get in there and sew!! Oh I loved it!! AND it's what I want to be doing right now!!! I am re-listening to Harry Potter book 7, and that is fun too!! When my girls come in to talk to me, they just stand there quiet, until I pause my book!!! It's funny!! They don't want to hear it, but they don't 'interupt' it either!

Well, don't go onto Bonnie Hunters blog unless you want to buy books!! lol!!
Yup, guess what I've done here at work since it's so quiet!? And I told myself " No NEW BOOKS OR PATTERNS!!!!" I have way more than a person needs - and I want to do them ALL!!! So, I will pretend it wasn't me who got them!!

I want to quilt words... why?? I just like them!!! (now, will I make words or just look at the book.......) And I also got the next Scraps and Shirtails book........ So, along with all my other on-the-go-projects, I have two more books to get those creative juices flowing!!!

Fun that I can come on here and see what is going on...... I have already read all the new posts on my blog list. Enjoyed the pictures and the stories. I should not have let myself know I can do this!! lol!! Ah, it's made a slow day alot of fun!! Have yourself a great sewing day - it's Tuesday! What else are you going to do???? Well, whatever it is, make a memory!

Oh Happy Day!!

2011-01-02T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hello Janurary 2nd!!

I am back to my 20 min. of sewing and YES!! I did start out the year with it being done!!! With complications - but I did it!! The complications being - I am still working on my Christmas quilt

and I need to sew the gold triangles on the top of the green pieces..... as many as I have made, guess who is having trouble getting them to line up right!! So, I am back to using my tool: the Wounderful "The Angler 2" by Pam Bono Designs.... the plastic sheet you lay over your sewing area that has all kinds of lines on it to help with sewing angles....... Love it!! It's great for any angle sewing you do - flying geese, snowballs, anthing that you need to sew on an angle for.... No, I have not used it for alot, but I am sure glad I have it!!

Also, while I am sewing away, I run out of bobbin thread!! Not a big deal, but I mean, I am out of bobbin thread!!! I had to stop make one! This is unusual for me - when I get low, I sit down and make a whole bunch at once!!! You know those donut bobbin holders - I fill one up when I make bobbins!!! Then I don't run out!!! Till times like yesterday, when I knew I was out, but wouldn't make one when I could. No, I have to wait till I am in the middle of (actually) sewing, before I make the time!!! Needless to say, part of my 20 mins was making bobbins. It is sewing related so it counts, but it is not what I had planned. Today, I am making more bobbins, and then I am off to the races!! It's a day off, and my cold is being nice, so I am going to spend the day -sewing.... and listening to Harry Potter book 7 (again!!). Just a nice way to spend the day. And it's snowing outside so what better place could I be.

Oh, and with the above blks - the pattern only calls for 30. I have made that and more..... and my wall is filled with pieces of blks - so I am going to make them till I've used up all the pieces. Then, I will make a twin? Two throws? Or a queen size quilt!!

I am just going to sew till I am done with it!!

On another note. Guess where I am going this Thursday??? To Orlando!! Yes! Florida!! My little sis phoned me last week and asked me if I wanted to go with her - laughing I said figure out the flights and we'll talk!! So, she did and I am going!! It was just over $400 return for me to go to Florida and come home??!! that is almost cheaper than for me to fly to Kelowna to visit her there - so yes, I am going!! And I have never been to Florida before. And in the last 20 years, I have not really gone anywhere - so this year is already starting out different!! I am going to travel!! I am a little nervous about going on my own, but I am all growd up now, so I should be okay.... lol!! Hope nobody steals me... but then again.......... kidding!!!!! Off for an adventure, first to sew then to find a new quilt shop, in another county!!! Make this year a great one!! 364 days left to make memories!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Welcome 2011!!!

2010-12-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is, Thursday, and I have a cold!!! ahhhhh!!!! yucky! It has been keeping me awake at night, and the cough comes at unexpeted times, and that is not fun either!! I will get over it and it will go away. I am just glad I didn't have to work these past couple days, but tomorrow, I am on, so I will be better!!

I have put my challenge projects on http://phdchallenge.blogspot.com/2010/12/brendas-4-challenge-projects.html . This is my 4 projects that I want out of my hair!! And on my couch to warm a body this winter!! That is 10 quilts for me to get done!!! Barbara has 6 right now, and when I get these 4 done, I will be feeling like I am accomplishing something!! YES!! That is a nice thought!

I am really looking forward to having my room where I can breathe in it!! I have so many boxes filled with things that just are in the way. And I don't want to open them - but this year I have decided to de-clutter my house. That will be a chore and a half...... I know I am not were I want to be when the ornaments for my tree, which I found in August, got put in a 'safe' place and I still don't know where they are!!!!! This is enough. Time to clean it up and clean it out!

That is my 2011 game plan. Make some real changes and have them stick!! It will be so nice to sit to sew and have the room to put things down and not loose them!!!! But the very best part?? To start a project and be using it next week!!! oh yeah!!! I am planning on being the me who I want to be!!

That is the only 'resolution' I have. Make changes that will stick. And this isn't a 'new year' thing. I knew I was working on it when I took the 6 quilts in to be quilted!! (still can't believe I actually did that!!!!!)
Here is another project I want done this year.

This has been put away. I took it down with the intention to have it done as a wall hanging for the next year........ I do not know where it is right now......... So, I need to find it and make it for next Christmas! July is going to be my month to work on Christmas projects - if I have not got it done by then, I have to be working on it in July. Call me on it, if you don't see me doing this okay??
This is another project I was having fun sewing together, and I want it done!! I have fabric for the border - so I will do it - another one I have to figure out where I put it...... not funny. this is such a bad habit of mine, and it has got to stop!!!

And this is my One Block Wounder!! One thing I have to do is see if I can find this material anywhere.... I did not buy the border material at the time of buying it for the blks. Kinda dumb, huh??? So these blks have to be made into a top, borders on and then finished.

With the ones on Myra's challenge, plus these - I am back to sewing my 20 minutes a day this year!! I have already marked my calender with my little '20' on the bottom of every day, that when I have done it, I can just go mark it off!!! I got alot done doing the 20 minutes in 2009, so why not do it again??? Focus. It's fun. And, it will keep me on track!!

Again, my rules for my 20 min sewing a day is - I can not go forward. Meaning if I sew for an hour today, it does not count toward the 20 minutes for tomorrow. BUT, if I missed a few days, I can sew an hour today to help me get caught back up!!!! When I do that, I mark off today, to show I sewed today, then I go back to the days I missed and sew till I have marked off all the 20's!! That way, if I get to behind, I know that I have been sewing and it's a way to encourage me to keep going!!

Happy New Year!!! I work tomorrow and the next day, so I don't think I will back on this year! It has been great getting to know you and may next year be even better than this one!!! ((hugs)) ~Brenda!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-25T12:44:00.000-08:00

This has been a wounderful day!! Very nice. And I love it!

I hope that you have had a day that you want to remember for years to come and that you have many more days like that in your near future. Merry Christmas Everyone, and may you all be blessed today.

No, may you all be blessed everyday, not just today!

Here is to family and friends, and to know that you are loved. Go give someone a hug and share the joy!!

~Brenda!!

Well, a month later and I finally come back to post!!

2010-12-22T19:04:00.000-08:00

Hello. How has your day been?? I was having a nice day till, well, I phoned another store and asked if they were looking for help.

Have you ever been told by your boss - or whatever he is - that he has wanted to fire you 3 times???? Uh, then big man, why didn't you??? Yup, I am angry - working at not letting myself go down that path....

Wow. For people who - nope, don't go there...... I love my job. I really enjoy being in the store - as busy as it is not - and for as quiet as it can be, I enjoy being there. Sometimes I do not want to go there (like tomorrow for instance - I want to suddenly come down with a case of ain't going to show up, but that is so not me, that I can't even seriously contemplate it!!!) But once I am there, working, moving things around, having people come in, I enjoy it!!

And after this 'incident', I was upset, and I had a woman come in and I greeted her like I usually do, with a big 'hi' and how are you??? Well, she asked me how I was?? (that is what we do right?? lol!) but I asked her, "Should I tell the truth or give you a regular answer???" she kinda laughed and asked me what I ment?! So, I gave a very brief description of what had (literally) just happened. She looked at me, kinda funny, and told me that she only comes to this store because of me! (I had just told my huby on the phone that some people come to the store because I am there - I have had a couple actually tell me that, and here was a woman, I didn't realize felt that way to! That was a nice surprise, and confirmation that I am a good person and don't need to be treated the way this boss had just treated me.) And what is even better is that she lives in another town, and made her hubby stop at my store so she could pick up things instead of her store in her town!

I will give you a brief update on the incident - today is stock day. When I do stock, since we work alone in the store, I take the boxes and fill the shelves. And I take one item and put it by the computer to add to the inventory later - I do the stock day in stages - empty boxes, keep back room clean/organized. And deal with customers. Then add inventory to the computer. And deal with customers. Keep store organzied, tidy, stocked and running smoothly. (on a side note: I also go the bank on my own time, and make sure the store has change and small bills. I do this by using my own money to buy the change that I 'sell' to the store. We are not near the bank and we work alone. If you run out of the small stuff, you are out!! So I do this for my own sanity, but also to keep the other staff members tills running smoothly.)............ I do this because no one else does... not the owners, or anyone else. And the beauty of it all is - no is in charge. The owners are rarely in the store, and they will leave town without letting a person know! If something happens, you have to deal with it......... okay, enough. I love my job, I love my job, I love my job........*heavy sigh*

Anyways, when boss man walks in, he asks if we had gotten in a product. We hadn't. Then he asks me if it's been busy (I wan't finished with the stock yet) I honestly told him it wasn't that busy, I had a customer who just needed to talk (it happens!!!). Then he's wondering about all the stuff on the counter - the stuff to be entered into the computer. I told him. (I should just keep my mouth shut). Well, this isn't how it is supposed to be done (What????!!!??? I was taught doing it this way, granted there were other people doing the stock at the same time, it was not a one person deal like it is now, but yes, this is how it was done, and how I was taught!!!!) And then he goes off on his rant. I just stood there, wishing I could just walk out, knowing I won't. BUT, I will not be spoken to like this. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. And then he tells me that when he knows I am working, he doesn't come in. Hmmm, was that supposed to hurt me somehow?? I was thinking - Good!!!! Should I send you the schedual every week if something changes??? lol! Then why are you here today??

Okay, enough of this - Are you ready for Saturday?? I am not sure if I am!?!! But, I will be. I have to wrap presents, something I do like to do. And I will have fun doing that. I just have not been out shopping like I usually find the time to do, and this year, I am actually going to go Boxing Day shopping!!! I love that!! And have not done it for years!!!!!

Merry Christmas my friends. I will probably post this and then take it down. Who needs to remember days like this one??? Not me, that for sure. I am going to find me a place that wants me, and treats me well.
OH- have you heard of Mona*vie?? If you haven't and are intersted in learning about a Mutli-Level Marketing company, I have re-joined this one. I really like this product and I love the way this company does it's thing!! Check it out!! mymonavie.com/finejuice

Talk sooner than a month from now, and I had better have done some serious sewing!!
sorry for such a crappy post, but this is my life today.. OH! And on the complaints department, I have made it over 10 days, but now, I am back at day one!! I will get to 21 complant free days - oh yes I will!!! ((hugs))

Sundays Must be my 'new' day to Post!

2010-11-21T08:53:00.000-08:00

Have I managed to do the 21 days of not complaining yet?? No, not yet, but I have done 2 in a row!!! Today, I am on Day 1 again.... let me get to day 2 again!! And beyond.......

This is an older picutre, I will update it when I get back - but these blks are my leader/enders right now. It takes 30 to make a throw, and I have 30+ made... was thinking I would do 2 throws for my girls for Christmas this year. But yesterday in my room, I thought, make a twin size or bigger quilt...... hmmmmmmmm. Plus pillowcases to match!! Or stick with the 2 throws and make them pillowcaes to match. This is how I get myself to start new projects while in the middle of one!!

Speaking of that - Bonnie Hunter has a new mystery "Roll Roll Cotton Ball" that I was not to sure what I would do. I like her mysterys. Well, fact is, I like her patterns!! And so I told myself I could download the project how-to's but not work on it! What did I find myself doing yesterday?? Looking through my scraps, FQ's and fabrics for pinks and greens!!! The ones I found, I bundled up in a messy pile and shoved into a spot to keep them out of my line of sight!!!!

Right now, I am working on my Chrismas throws and my Halloween spider wall hanging. Period. I am ignoring the fact that suddenly a rope bowl looks like an interesting thing to try (WHAT!!!) and all the mug rugs patterns that I keep seeing would be a quick thing to do.. (for me!?! Quick???! Uh, not so much!!!!) And then I have already bought the Gemini pattern I had seen in the Keepsake magazine. I really like it, and when I went into my LQS and saw it there, I took it home with me! Now, as I sew, I keep seeing the different ways I could make it - Christmas fabrics, how bought Halloween fabrics??, what colours should I use? Bali's?? bright colours like they have on the pattern??? Would flowers work??? Flowers and a solid as it's twin??? I really need to stop thinking of future projects and focus on getting my on the go projects DONE!!! Wow, do I ever have alot of things I have started......... And so many more that I have ready to go. This is something I have to work on. Uh, not starting things, not doing the Projects waiting in the wings!!!!
This is my next project to go to my long arm quilter for quilting!!This is one of the projects that was on my bed before I made myself stop. I have to sew the backing for it anyway, so as I pick up a project, I am planning on having something ready to give her to do..... Get 'em done!!

And I made a comment on my going somewhere earlier in the post. Yes, I am going back to Kelowna. My little sis is going in for an operation and I am going to look after her house and kidlets for her. Granted, she only has the one that needs me, and her older daughter could have done it, if she hadn't had to go in for an emergency operation herself!!!!

So, I am leaving for a week - going tomorrow and doing what I can to help out. The only thing I am not liking much is, Tracey is in Vancouver for the operation, and won't even be home till a couple days before I come home again. And having to do this in Vancouver, away from home and family and friends... I am worried about her. But that is how it stands. Her operation? Removing a kidney. She had major back pain a couple weeks ago - actually had to call her daugher to come and get her, she couldn't drive anymore. Took her to the hospital, and they told her it was kidney stones, go home. She said no, it's not stones. Another Dr. came in, took a looked at her and said, "I am keeping you for tests".

They found a growth in her kindney. Only in her kidney, and 98% of the time it's cancer. The won't check it while inside, that has made the cancer spread, so removale is the only thing they will do and check it when it's outside the body. Why Vancouver for the removale? Faster heal time, no scar and they do it all through the belly button.

This is my fitness freak little sister, healthy from the get go, doesn't smoke or do things like that and is always working out.
And as she is finding out this stuff for herself, that is when her daugher had to go in and have an emergency apendix taken out!!! With complications after!!!! Not funny, but man, It will be nice when everyone is out of the woods health wise in that family. So, I don't know what I will do there, but I will make myself useful and keep things up and running while Tracey is away.
I was planning on going to day - flights didn't work out. Tracey is under the knife tomorrow and I will be at her house tomorrow just after lunch. Flying is fast. Now to rent a car for a week......

So, this is my lates update. Maybe I will get to day 3 of no compaints while away! I will see if I can check in on eveyone while I'm gone. Am not sure about the computer use down there - I heard that hers crashed!!! When it rains...... I do know that they don't have TV, only movies and DVD things. This is a cost relatated reason. I am going on an adventure!! Talk soon!

Another Sunday!!

2010-11-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

I got a phone call today, asking if I would come into work - or, go to work I should say, since I opened the store!! So much for a day off!!! I went in and did my 4 hrs, and now I am home, to have the rest of my day - off!!

I have been busy. And it's good. Has anyone read the book "A Complaint Free World" by Will Bowen???

It has changed my life! I am taking the 21 day challange - it is to be complaint free for 21 days in a row. They have purple braclets that will help you with this challange. Every time you make a complaint out loud, you have to switch wrists - so if you were wearing your braclet on the right arm and complained about the weather, or anything!!!!, you have to take the braclet off and move it the the left arm. And start over right from there!!!! My purple braclet is still coming here, it's in the mail right now so I am using a rubber band right now and I have not had one complaint free day yet!!! Today, is still hopeful though!!! Today is day 12 of working on not complaining and since I have not uttered one compaint today I might have ,my first day...... it would be nice - with 20 m0re to go!!!! The days have to be consecutive, so even if I make 20 days, one complaint and I am back to zero!!!! It is a fun challange! And it sure makes you hear what you are saying, and how...... sometimes I have made myself switch arms just because I did not like the tone I used..... Tone of voice says alot of how you are feeling and if you are angry, frustrated, tone will let everyone know it!!!! When I first started wearing the rubber band, I was moving it almost every hour!!!! Wow!!! Now I get asked if I have had to move my band, and I love it when I can say 'No'!! (then i utter something and braclet gets moved!!!!)

What else have I been doing??? Well, last Sunday night, me, myself and I had a little chat - and Monday moring I phoned Barbara, my long arm quilter and I went over to her house. She now has 6 of my projects in her possession!!! And the really scary part of this is, I had 4 more on my bed, that I choose not to take to her + more in my room I had not uncovered yet........

I love to sew little pieces of fabric together, but the reality is, all I have done is made a mess of my room, my brain and my projects! That is the conversation I had with me, myself and I!!! Something has to change. I can not live like this anymore. I need to clear out the clutter and since ALOT of my clutter is projects 1/2 done, I have to fix that! Me, just watches and shakes her head and myself, just tries to keep the peace!!! But we all agreed that something had to be done, so Barbara got the call!!!

This is my Alien top!! it's the 4 patch posie pattern, done 'my' way and I love it!!! Nice and bright and just fun!!! For the backing, I sewed an orange and green strips of fabric long enough to cover the back of the top together - the same material used for the stars and sashing - then I cut a chuck of it off - about 1/3 down the lengh just so it's not in half - then I flipped the fabric over and re-sewed them together: this created a backing that is like an off set 4 patch!!! Now I have a really cook looking backing for this quilt!! (If I knew where I got the idea from, I would make a link!! As it is, it's just a page I printed off of somewhere and I hope I explained it right! I will take a pic when I get my quilt top back, and no Myra, I didn't complete the outside edge stars........

This is the top that started this whole thing going!! Bonnie Hunters project that she had in Quiltmaker magazine - I know I have this magazine with the 3 part project, I just looked at it, but right now, have no idea what the dates are for this mystery so you can go make one yourself!! The backing will be flannel, which when I so happily sewed together the other day to get it back to Barbara, I sewed wrong sides together!!!! Did you know it takes no time at all to sew a backing but it does take alot of time to 'fix' it!!! I am (very) happy to say, backing is ready to go and once I get the other two sewn (right this time!! lesson learned!!) They will all be where they should be!! And I will work on making binding for them!
Look!!! I have this at the quilter already and it's only been a few months!!! Uh, since I want to call this January Stars, now you know how long it's been!! But it's there and it is for me to use when watching movies!! And I love it!! So, only 3 more to go......

I am buying backing from Barbara for this one. And I am going to find the pattern for her too. She liked it, so I thought I would show her what I did!!

This was a fun top to do!!! STRIP TWIST - by Bonnie Hunter!!! http://www.quiltville.com/striptwist.shtml

Love this pattern!! Was looking through the Keepsake cataloge after I gave this to be quilted and found some jelly rolls that I thought would be good for this!! Then shut the book and told myself -"NO!!!" ;-)

(But it would be nice!!! yes, it's been circled in the book, but not right now!! lol!)

I can not find the pic of the last quilt top I have taken in!!! It's the Goose top, I was working on. I have no idea where they are - I know I took more than one picutue!! But, there is the link to some of the blks I made for the now finished quilt top - soon to be quilted!! And, Wow, I was going through my blog to find pictures, and my morning star, I made that in 2008??! WHAT????? Oh my, I really don't have a clue about what I am doing do I??? It is almost funny, but I thought I was working on it this past January..... not a year ago January. But when I think about it, Last year - 2009 - is the year I sewed 20 minutes every day. This year, even though I started out sewing my 20 min. a day, in May, I stopped, so how could I have been working on the star quilt this year!!

Time sure flys! So this is what I am doing right now - November 2010!! (note to self - pay attention!!! lol!!)

What a Lazy Sunday and I am lovin' It!

2010-10-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

I was tired last nigt - have been for days, so when I got off work, I was so glad to be done for a couple days! What I didn't expect was to basically sleep till 10 this morning!!! I do not do that!!! My kids were even amazed! (they weren't up yet either though, so them making noise didn't wake me!!! That would have!)

I just felt sorry for the dogs who are fed at 8 in the morning after already have been outside! oops!!

Anyways, I am really enjoying this lazy day, but it only feels like it's about noon - not the 3:30 that it really is - so I am hoping that is not going to be a problem for going to sleep tonight!!

Anyways, I just wanted to show you how much got done on my 'new' project this week!! (If I knew where my stabilizer was for my applique - I might have that done already too, but.......)

So, here is my fun project!! I am using up halloween fabrics plus ones that make me think fall and warmth - eh, I am just having fun!! My 'trick or treat' letters are in purple!! I am hoping I have enough of that orange for the binding, but we will see....... I don't have any other orange that is not really dark (very muddy, yucky!!) or way to bright! hmmm, it's a work in progress, so I will just keep playing. Proof, that I have been in my room!! Next pic, had better be the finished product, or you migh not see me again.....;-)

Guess Who's Back???

2010-10-11T16:19:00.000-07:00

uh oh - I did something bad today (and yesterday - which is why I did it again today.....) I went on the computer and looked - I can't believe it, it's been so long..... at blogs. Yes, yes I did. I went and checked out some 'new to me bloggers' and - You won't believe what happened!!!

I found the project that got me into my sewing room!!! It's a Halloween project and I love Hallowen projects!! And this one is a very quick and easy one (which means - BRENDA GET IT DONE!!!!!!!) and I have already been working on it!!!

I will show you something:

It still likes me!!! And it still works!!

All my play things were more than ready to come and play with me when I finally entered the 'no zone' area today!!!

I felt so loved!!

And I had such a good time!!!

Yes, even though I got my big machine fixed I have not used it yet (how can you, when as soon as you get it home - you go on a 'no sewing frame of mind'???)

But I am in my room again, and lovin' it!!!

Do I feel bad for not doing more? No. I don't. I had other things to keep me company. I've started to read again. Which I do not let myself do enough of. Factual book, yes, but fiction??? No. I don't read 'for fun' very often. But I have been!!! I, the kid in me, the one who loves to go places, have adventures and some excitment, has been hidden away for to long. She is showing herself though!!!

This spring, a friend wanted hubby and me to stop at an RV place so he could look at trailers. Well, for the first time ever - I went into a beautiful motor home (I love motor homes!!!) and actually sat in the drivers seat........ Now, I want it!!! And I have been haveing fantasy's about where me and the motor home would go - or should I say, where wouldn't we go???!!

Anyways back to todays project!!!

This is where I went through a scraps pile to look for suitable fabrics for my new project!!

I Found alot of things that will work, and I am glad!! I want it to be fun, and colourful - But, I also want it to look good when it's done!! Some of my fabrics will not be used, but it was nice to look throught them.....

My spiders are going to be black, but black prints!! Each one is different!! I have not decided on the eyes yet - that will be fun!! And I ended up piecing the corners!! Same fabric, but pieces where smaller than needed so..... Waste not want not!! And they dont' have to be 'perfect'!! It's HALLOWEEN for crying out loud!! I want 'fun' not serious!!!

And here are the pieced corners:

And I like how they look. All kinda crazy and such!!

And I really need to lean how to get this to work for me!! When I previewed this post, it was awful, but being here I can't get the pieces to fit together right, or the cursor to be where I want!! Guess I need to blog more - get my skill up. but here is the last picture:

So, along with my long neglected but not forgotten project, Piece & Goodwill, (I was actually working on it as 'leader and enders' as I pieced my corner blocks together!! yeah me!!!) this is the center for my Trick or Treat project!!! And 2 - 2.5" blks to start my sides and top!! Yup, I am going to have fun!! And thanks for being here to share my joy!! I am off for dinner and some House and Lie To Me, them - cutting I guess!!! (my TV has been taken from my sewing room!! didn't miss it till today!!! Wounder why??) lol!! Bye!!

New Month, New Plans, And it's October!!!!

2010-10-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

I like October - I love halloween fabrics!! Why?? Have no idea, but I love 'em!!

And I just took a tour through my blog - wow, I have worked on alot of things........ finished any??? Uh, no. But I sure have alot started. And that is just what I have photo's of - there are more that I do not pictures of. And I have not sewn in almost 1/2 a year. Still have no desire.

I will go find my halloween pillow case and maybe that will get my creative spark back.

The store I work at has a new owner. Rumor has it that he takes over (the whole building?? Heard he bought the whole litte complex -strip mall. Wounder if that is true??) November 15th. And that he is keeping the staff. I heard the store sold through a customer. And it ended up that it is true. Wounder what the new boss will be like. I don't think I met him. Met alot of people who wanted or at least were looking at the store. It will be good.

Okay, coming on to say 'hi'. I don't know why I blog!! I am a private person, and nothing really excitng happens here. Have a great weekend. I am going to bake this weekend! Have a huge zucchini that I have to make into loaves and muffins and what ever else I can think of!! bye!

Hello Everyone!!

2010-09-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

What is new with you??

Me? Well, I went to my guild meeting last Thursday night, and I am no longer president!! Yeah!!! I love to look at books, see what is new, share ideas, but I just did not like being 'in charge' of a group of women who, in all honestly, could quilt tons of quilts around me!!!!!! So, in all honesty, I was not doing them any service by staying as prez, so it was a good feeling to be leaving my postition!! The woman who took over, was already asking when they want to do the next quilt show!!!!!!???!!! I didn't want to do the first one!! So, I have left it in very capable hands!!!

Hmmm, I was looking for a pic to post - and this one showed up. What is funny about that is I have been getting hugs lately!! So it's going to stay.

I have been doing alot of 'reading' lately, meaning, listening to books on audio!! Love that. I have even taken my player and little speakers to work with me, so I can listen to something other than the radio that plays the same songs over and over!! It's a nice way to spend the day, hearing something fun and getting to be at work at the same time!

I have read the 'real' book "The Help", by Kathryn Stockett. I liked it. I love to read a 'real' book. Part of me wounders how long they will make books that you have to turn the paper pages get to the next part of the story. I love to climb into a book and get lost for awhile. Audio is great if you are driving, at work, doing laundry, having a bath and sewing. But if you really want to dissappear - a good book that can take you away is the best thing to find!! I love a good book!!!

Have I sewn? Nope. Not since March - OH! May, I thought it was March.... Well, anyway, not since May 2nd. That is the last time my sewing machine has made a sound........... It's better than March - but still, it's telling me something. I still have my project, the Piece & Goodwill, that I was working on, on my design wall, waiting. Boy fabric is patient!!! I have enought blocks for one quilt made up, but I thought while I was at it, I should do two. So, I have all kinds of pieces waiting for me ( and these last few days, since my quilt meet, I have been peeking into my room!!) And the fact that it's getting colder outside ( already!!! Dang it!!!!) I might find myself in there soon. With no pressure. Because I told my guild I was done for awhile. So they are not expecitng me back - but told me to come anyway!!!! Funny, now that I don't have to be there, watch, I will always remember when the meeting are!!!

Do I miss sewing?? No, not really. Do I still want all my projects done?? Yes, I do. Not many do I not want to do. I am just hoping, taking some time away from these wounderful ladies, will keep my 'oh look!! I have to make one of those!!' gremlins at bay!! Eye candy is bad for me - I want to see if it really that easy and wounderful, and I end up with what I have now, a room full of 1/2 finished things, that just make me feel stressed.

Have I missed all of you?? Yes. When I stopped sewing, I also stopped visiting on the computer. So, I have missed alot.

I want to thank you all for all your support this year. Last November was not fun, and neither was this summers incident. But you listened and thank-you. this is partly why I stopped writng. I do not want to be a doom and gloom depressing person!!! That is so not me!!!! I can go there - oh yes I can but that is not who I want to be!! So when I feel that type of thing comign on, I stay away!!!! It's been awhile! Now it's time to re-group, re-focus and come out and play! September. A time for new beginnings. New plans, new horizons and a new age!! Yup, I got to become a year older this month, so here's to great things happening in the new age!!!

Take care of you and yours and Thanks for being my Friend!! Love ya!! ~Brenda!!

Just letting you know I am still here!!

2010-06-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't realize how long it has been since I have even come on to talk. I have been busy - at least that I what I am going to claim!!! The reality is, the days are just flying by with really nothing to show!!

Here Myra!! A picture!! this is my daughter at her Grad night!! this is her friend of many years, yes they have dated, but not anymore... so they say!! I have no idea - but he basically lived at my house for years, so they are very good friends! She was his grad date too when he graduated, so I was nice to see them together doing this again!! And she had to have an orange dress!! I was glad she found her favorite color in a dress that she loves!!

this morning, we have water in our basement caused by overflowing eavestroughs, from them being plugged -again- because of the neighbors pine tree!! They have already been cleaned out this spring, but I guess it should be done once a month or cut down the tree!!! Would that be wrong???? Anyways, that is not a nice way to wake up - but saying that - we have rain here!!!! And the ducks don't have to walk around the ponds that are no longer there anymore, woundering where the water went!?!?!

The ponds and slews and dug outs - they have water in 'em!!!! And DUCKS!!!! It looks so good to see them back - instead of cows walking where the water should be!!! It has been pouring all night - and has not stopped since early evening, and that is fantastic!!! little water in the basement, okay, as long as it's only a little. but this rain can just keep coming!! It's a good thing!

Well, I am going to go take myself off to work. Still liking it. And that is a good thing too!!

Everybody, DREAM BIG!!!! And may all your dreams come true!!! hey, fellow Canadains!! Got your Lotto Max Ticket yet???!!! Now that would be a big dream!!!! Good luck!!! ~Brenda!!

A very quick note!!

2010-04-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

I just found this site and it's wounderfully fun!!! I love to do things for my freezer, and this is just way to cute!!

How has everyone been?? I've been working and enjoying myself. I also have been trying new-to-me coolers!! Not always a good thing!!! I stopped drinking about 8 years ago, just because I didn't see the point and I have kids to raise and.... well, the reasons go on. But, I now work in a store that I can't say, "I've heard this is good" about everything!! Wine, yes, I can. Not a huge fan, but I am learning about it and it's a huge learing curve!!!!

Just wanted to share that site!! Enjoy!!!

(sorry no pic!! Myra with notice so I thought I would mention it!!! ;-) )

Monday

2010-03-29T07:34:00.000-07:00

And I have reached one of my sewing goals this week. My BOM blk is done, and is the huge header for my blog right now - I could not get that picture to post right - and I kept trying.... this is the best I could get it to do.
And I did get 2 of my 3 Piece & Goodwill blks done. The third is layed out on my wall, but I have to make a couple more pieces for it. I am trying to not use the same fabric in a blk, so I need more pieces to choose from!!
Went to the home and Garden show for the first time ever this weekend. Bought myself a silk duvet. It is supposed to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer, so, this will be nice. Lately I go to bed and feel chilly - and I would prefer to be warm!! (I wake up in the middle of the night hot and all covers are off, but the trying to get to sleep when you feel cold, that is not fun!!!)
Okay, I am off to get ready for work. Stopped at Costco yesterday, and I was asked a few times where I had been....... They didn't realize I had quit, a month ago!!! That is how much staff turnover there is at that store!! Crazy!! But I got to see my friends, most of them anyway!! And one I didn't get a chance to say bye to when I left!! that was really nice. And she has changed jobs!!! Excellant!! And if you haven't seen The Blind Side yet, it's good. Finally watched it last night, and enjoyed it.
Have yourself a very nice Monday. Sew a stich or two and get out and enjoy the flowers!! I can say that because the other day, I have a tiny purple flower in my flower bed!!! The only one, but it's there!!! Spring is really here!!!!

Design Wall Monday!! March 22 '10

2010-03-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Today I have pics!! Batteries are re-charged and good to go, and they helped me take these two pictures of things to get done this week!!

The first is my BOM - yup, more browns!! I should of had this done as soon as I got it, but I didn't - so it's up to be done this week.

And the next is my Lone Star blk. It is going to
be done this week. Kinda thought by Thursday
would be nice, but I don't think it will happen. Simply because I won't have the time. By 'done', I mean, completed!!
I am thinking of making it into a wall hanging......

And I also have the border to put on my blue
blocks. They are all sewn together, now it's time
to have it bordered and out the door.
These are my three projects, plus, working on
my Christmas quilt blocks - Piece and Goodwill.

And I also have the backing for my Christmas Lights to get to my quilter.

And working. Don't forget working!!!

I should stop now, before more project ideas pop into my head!!! Goals are a good thing - and this week, I have a few that I want to see crossed off my list!!! Lovin' it!!! Have a great week!!

Stash 188 5/8 yrds!!!

2010-03-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have finally made it on here to post today!!! Yeah me!! I have come on and read, but I just didn't feel like talking, so.....

Anyways, yes, I have shopped this week!! One was just therapy for me - I was not in a good mood, and I decided to go and pick up my big machine (the store was open late for leperchauns day) and I went. So, my machine did not die when it made that awful noise and not only scared me, but completly stopped working!!!! It is back in working order, although, I have not tried it myself yet, but it will be back where it belongs tomorrow.

While shopping, I bought fabric for yesterdays class - the Lone Start blk we were being taught. I realized, I sew s-l-o-w-l-y!!! Not backwards, but not as fast as the other women there!! But, I was also the one who took people to where the bathrooms were and ... well, I just am not a speedy sewer!!! But I do have fun!!!

Here is as far as I got on this blk!!

The side triangles are not sewn on yet, and the pieces are not sewn together yet, but this is what 1/4 of the block will look like!! I think it's pretty. And I am using a pink batik background.

Here is what it looks like as you are putting it together - kinda messy!!! And I would have had more pics for you, but the batteries on my camera died!!! I was just thinking the batteries were lasting a long time, set the camera down, and when I picked it up again for the next shot - dead!!! lol!!

And I bought myself a new toy yesterday. Did I need it??? Nope. But, I now own a take-along ironing and cutting surface when I have classes to go to. For the blk we did, you have fusible web that you work with, and you iron a litte bit on each piece so they don't move as you are sewing them together....

Before the ladies left who taught the class, I bought more fusible to do two more blks!! My girlfriend bought enough for a whole quilt!!!

And I got my blue blks sewn together today. Not happy about this, but the other day, my DD and hubby were playing - he was chasing her - and she went into my sewing room........ uh, hit the 'wall' - which is not stable at all, and ALL THE QUILT PIECES landed on the ground........ I am so glad I had sewn some together, in retrospect, I should have sewn them all, but who knew they would wreck my top???????? Even though I had pictures, I had also moved the pieces around, and made it the way I wanted it.... After this happened, I just, well, I tried to put it back the way it was, but I just couldn't seem to get it right. Today, I layed them out and sewed them - it's done.

And it's name is "Mishap". You know 'unfortunate accident'. It does not look the way I wanted it, but it's done. And done is better than another UFO - so all it needs is a border and backing and off to my quilter!!!! And for the first time I have done a guild challange!!!! And the best part, I am following my new 'rule' of finishing what I start!!!

Today, I also worked on my Piece and Goodwill blks!!! I have pieces ready to be made into blks and some need to be worked on some more!!!! but the beauty of it is, I am working on it and loving it!!!

Have a great week coming up. I plan on sewing everyday - getting things done. And enjoying every minute of it!!

OH! Stash Report!!! (almost forgot!!)

I bought 2 5/8 yrd this week. So, that makes my numbers bigger. I have to figure out what the blue blocks used, and then I will have a real report for next week. I am just not having a very good time this weekend. I keep escaping into my crafts just to be alone, and that is not me....... Tomorrow will be better. I will make sure of it!!!

Here are the blks in a tentative setting

2010-03-13T11:03:00.000-08:00

My blocks!! Well, they are all done!! And here they are!!!

Oh - this pic looks bad!! lol!!

My daughter just came out and asked me if I am keeping the blue quilt - she went and checked it out (without me asking her what she thought!! she went in there on her own!!) and told me she likes and wants it!! lol!!

I have moved a couple blks around. I like this setting right now, but before I do make it permanent, I will keep looking for a bit - probably a half hour!!! lol I want this done and off to the quilter!!!

I have done a challenge!!! yeah me!!!

I am in a very tight spot in my sewing room for my 'wall' and I am trying to show you all the quilt, so it has 3 pictures - some of the blks are the same, but it's confusing because the above photo was taken sideways......

But I am not sure how I feel about it - I just want it done - and it's not for anything special, it's just to do a challenge and finish my project. Maybe the frustration with the pattern and cutting it all out, makes me think - enough!!

Now, it needs to be sewn and made smaller!! It's funny how much smaller a project gets when all the seams are sewn together!! 1/4" does add up!

Have a super weekend and don't forget to move your clocks forward tonight, if you live in a place where the time changes tonight!!! I do, and I will remember!!!! Bye!

Blue Blocks Are DONE!!!

2010-03-12T14:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, all my blue blocks are sew together, the 6 1/2" ones are the right size and I made an extra lrg. 15 1/2" one!! So, I have 16 of those instead of the 15 I needed!!

I am so glad they are done, especially at the end when I kept cutting one of my fabrics to small!!! It was suppose to be cut 8 1/2" long, so I cut it 8" twice instead!!! AARRGGHHHH!! But, I pulled out the fabric again and cut it, again!!!! Third times the charm!!

And, I listened to my music loud today, and just enjoyed myself!! And then, I got a phone call! Even though I had a phone in my room with me, my daughter had to come and give me her phone 'cause, ahem, I didn't hear mine ring!!! lol!! And it was my new boss - phoning to ask me a question about the schedual..... did I mind working 10-5 Monday to Fridays??? Uh, yeah!!! EXCELLANT!!! So, I definitly said YES!! And she will even work around my BOM day, and that is fantastic!! Like I told her, if she can't do it, it's fine, but she told me she would, so, I can still go to my BOM on the second Tuesday of the month!! I told her I get back into town at noon, so I could be to work then. I told Costco that I had a standing appointment on that day, and didn't tell them what it was (let them wounder.....) and so I always had it off so I could go to my BOM meeting!!!

My Blue Blocks are done!! Once I get the big blocks cut to size, this baby is being sewn together and off to the long arm quilter!! (I will go get that flannel I like first though!!!)
Oh yeah, this is good!!!

Beautiul Day!

2010-03-12T08:27:00.000-08:00

Well, I had my quilt guild meeting last night. Before I left, I kinda didn't want to go, but since I have the keys, I had to!! When I got there, the door was open and people were already inside!!! That was fun! I liked that simply because it made me feel like I belonged there.... hmmm, strange way to feel. I liked that I didn't have people waiting for me to show up, that I guess I was late and didn't have that pressure that I hadn't done what I was supposed to, like be on time!!! And we had a backwards meeting!!!

We had a woman come and do a demo for us. This a rare event - AND - she is coming back on the the 20th to teach us a class!!! On a lone star blk!!! PRETTY BLK!!!!! I am so excited simply because, one, we are having a person come to teach and two, it's something I would love to learn to do!!!!!!! AND THE BEST THING IS - I DON'T WORK THAT DAY!!!!!

So, that is fantastic!! Now I need to figure out my fabrics for this blk. Which is why when I got home, I pulled out (finally found!) my batiks for me 'Orion Star' project I have planned. This ended up being my 20 min of sewing last night. Did I find any fabric I want to use, not really, but I do have enough fabric to start this quilt. No more buying batik FQ's!!! Now, I am woundering if having a quilt top made from only batiks would be ugly........

I hate second guessing myself, but I do not want a quilt that has beautiful fabrics in it, look like a disaster when done. Ah, I will just go ahead and make a couple blks and see what I think then...... but not until I get my blue blocks done and the BOM blk and get some of the Christmas blks done.... so, why am I on here when I should be sewing??????? :-)

Brenda - that is the ladies name who came to do the demo, showed us a ruler that I have been wanting for years!! I saw it years ago on Simply Quilts, and could not find it so figured it was a States thing, not avalible in Canada. It's called "Shape Cut Plus" and it's by June Tailor. It's a slotted ruler and I know I am going to love it!!!!!! It helps you to cut more acurate strips of fabric and many layers at a time!! So, all the cutting for my blue blocks would have been done in less time!!! BONUS!!! And once you cut the strips, pick up the ruler, lay it down again the other way, and make squares, or triagles , and even diamonds!! Although, dimonds are not something I use often, but I do use squares and strips!!! And I am so looking forward to doing this class with her. She owns a store that I have never been to before, so I guess 'road trip' is on my schedual!!!!

Here is the ruler, with a nice 'flash' mark in the middle, I shut that flash bulb off - I didn't realize it had done it on this one, but I 'fixed' the next picture!! So, this is how big this ruler is - It take up the whole mat!!!

And here is the name and little hints of what this new toy can do. Can you imagine cutting out your strips for your 'worms' or the jelly rolls in half the time!!

Brenda said, at the story, they use their big one to cut all the stores jelly rolls and layer cakes and charm squares and anything like that and they are all perfectly cut with this ruler!!!!

Hmmm, anyone have any stash they would like to break down into food groups???? lol!! Invite your friends over for tea and layer cakes! Jelly rolls!!! And sew the day away!!!

Yup, I think i am going to like this ruler....

Now, the other thing I was searching for last night is my ruler bag..... a bag the will hold anything you need to take to a class to a freind house to sew. It hold rulers , large mat, and any tools that you need. It is perfect and I was looking for such a bag for awhile, so when I saw the patten I grabbed it! I started it a long time ago, and hit a snag - for some reason I stopped working on it and put it away.... and now, I want it done. Like NOW!!!! And, with my mess of projects that I have stored in my room, I do not know where it is. I am so glad I 'oganized' my room........ I will find it, but in time to have it done for this class?????

And here is a close up of the ruler - see the slots that you put your rotary cutter into, and the line you follow to make your cut.... She didn't have her hand on the ruler at all, she just put the cutter in there and cut, then moved it to her next slot and cut again...... She said she cuts up to 8 layers at a time. That is alot of cutting!!!

And when she is doing funny cutting, or lots of it, she marks her ruler with glow tape or even masking tape, that way, you don't cut wrong!!

And yes, you can do 1/4" cuts with this - just follow the directions that are provide with the ruler!!

I bought myself a new toy!!! And the mess in my room, is not going to be making me crazy anymore!!!! I have no reason not to make my projects, so French Braid - I am a commin' for you!!!! (But, ahem, not this month.... lets make it a summer project - once I get this guild project gone and now the orion star - that has been waiting a long time to do, so lets get it done!!!!

Have a super fantastic weekend and enjoy evey minute of it!! I know that on Monday, I am going to the DVD store (almost said 'video') and renting "Planet 51"!! On Mondays, it's a 2 for 1 deal, and you get them for 2 days, so that is when I like to rent movies. And that Planet 51 looks funny!!! I am off to get my blks done!!!!! (was going to go to the store, but that can wait. I have lost projects waiting to be found and one calling my name and ones that need to be worked on before I do anything else!!! SEE!! I am creating good habits - and it's working for me!!!!!

Yes, I went shopping.....

2010-03-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

I took a long drive to a quilt store I have only been to once, and wasn't exactly sure where I was going!!! But when I got to the town, I thought to myself, either find it or go back home, so I drove around a bit, turned a corner and saw the store out of the corner of my eye!! I parked and went in. Did I find what I was looking for?? No. She had a quilt class on a book I want to check out, and thought she might have a copy of the book in the store, on sale....... Do I know the name of the book?? NO! That would be to easy!!! But I do know what it looks like, and there was none there. Did I leave empty handed?? Nope. Bought fabrics and a ruler!!

I have been looking for this ruler for awhile now. Isn't this the one Bonnie Hunter always talks about?? I am sure it is, and even though I don't need it, I am glad to have it - for the next time I do a Bonnie quilt!!

Am not sure exactly how to use it - have not even taken it out of the pkg yet!! This was the only size she had, I think there is one bigger, but I don't know for sure. It will go into my collection along with the other fabrics I bought!!

These are the browns I bought.

Brown is the first colour choice I had when I thought of making the box blks that I am doing now in the blue. I liked the way it looked in the book and thought, hmmm, why not??

Then the guild challenge came up, and my colour choice was changed. It's why I also bought the blues above, but I still like the idea of a brown quilt.... and not just brown!! This one, if and when I make it, can have other colours thrown in!!

And today was my BOM day. So, I have my new blk to make and I shopped......

This is my flannel backing for my Christmas Lights Quilt!!! It is in the dryer right now, and will be washed again before I take it to my quilter!! Still need to make the label.........

I like it that it's green trees on a black background with the gold stars shining and it's flannel!! Was going to use the cotton I have here, but flannel is so much cozier and warmer and it's a Christmas quilt!! I don't live in a warm climate, so warmth in the winter counts!!!

And I didn't stop here either.......

I am going to be making more Christmas type quilts, I know I am, and I saw the green in the middle and picked it up. When I told my friend what I was doing, she grabbed the other 'Christmassy type fabric with the gold going throught it' and handed it to me.... So I thought, eh, why not?? And then I grabbed two more of the reds I bought last time!! Now I have 4 FQ's of that fabric!! I just really like it!!!

And then I saw this pretty batik and I had to bring it home with me, and then I saw his friend!! They are both a really soft purple/green muted fabric, and just really pretty. The 'friend' is fish!!! And I like 'em.

Everybody is in the bath right now. (uh, washer!!) and will be able to play once they are all cleaned and de-stinkified!!!

Then ironed and cut and made into something!!

Well, at least the blues are headed in that direction today!! I am so close to having the small blocks for the guild challenge done, and I am getting excited!!! This sewing for 20 minutes a day, it makes a huge dent in my plans!! Even if I just cut, organzie, figure out what to do next, tidy a bit, it makes a huge difference. Huge. It's amazing what you can do in what you would consider not enough time. But, sewing on a couple rounds, or even just part of one round, at least when I come back - that is already done.............

And I have made myself a list of thing to get done this week. I think that is called "Goals" .......

One of the goals is to make muffins that I really like with sweet potato in them - but, before I can - or should do that - the oven desperatly needs cleaning, so guess what else I am doing?? Yup, oven is sprayed and I am waiting the 2 hours till I get to clean it!! OH, what fun!!!

-I have already done most of the laundry, sheets are next than, that is off the list.

-Have made the fish some fresh water - and have watered the plants with the water from the aqarium.

-My big goal this week - get the blue blocks all done!! Cut to size and have it ready to sew into a top - by Sunday, if not before!!

I am getting revved about this!!! Oh Yes I am!!!! I still have to get the backing for it - flannel, all blue, and I have seen two fabrics I like, so next paycheck, I am getting it!!

I think this idea of making a week long list is a good one. Not a daily one - it's to easy to feel bad if you don't make it to the finish line that day, but if you've got a couple days, you can fit it in.....

And I am off to keep working on my list and cut some fabrics!!! Blue blocks, you are almost done!!!!!!

Design Wall Monday!! March 8 - Box Block!

2010-03-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

This is my wall right now - I am working on the 6 1/2" blks - there are two sets of them. If you notice the center blk - one is 3 1/2", and one is 2 1/2". 24 each, so 48 all together. I still have the large blks to make - it's center is 6 1/2" - only 15 of these, so that will go quick.

And yes, you stil can see the Piece & Goodwill blks that I am doing with friends.. It would be fun to do a Christmas quilt a month this year - and it is totally do-able considering I have some in the UFO pile that are so close to done, I should just make it so!!!
Plus a wall hanging that just needs binding! Binding for crying out loud!!!!!! Brenda! FINISH IT!!!!!!!!

I walked to work yesterday. I enjoyed it. No sidewalks down one road, but hey, it's the way to get there!! People don't walk much in this town. Some do. And I want to. It's a 1/2 hour walk, so it's nice. I put on my CD player - yes, CD. And headphones and just like driving to work, I listen to things that make me think, laugh, or I just enjoy a story! I plan on walking more than driving, so my daughter is happy - my car is accesible now and she can use it!!

Spring is working it's way here. Snow though is in the forcast, but we need it badly. Moisture, not necessarily snow, but we do need the ground to get some wetness to it. Farmers are already cashing in their insurace for failed crops - it's that bad. Here is to beautiful weather - gorgeous sunshine and calm winds. And dreams that come true!
Off to see your work on your walls!! And possible shopping today - do I go to the sale or stay home......... oh boy, I have not decided yet and I've been thinking about it since yesterday!!! bye!!

Stash Busting Sunday - still at 186 yrds!!

2010-03-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

I have not bought anything this week, but not for lack of thinking about it though!! I was going to go look for more blue the other day, but was with people who just wouldn't not have liked me going to a fabric store... so I didn't. Which is okay - I still have enough, for now anyway..... I have 1/2 of my little blue blks done now!! Over half actually, and will have more done tonight!!

And I have made a list of goals - yes, this is an old picture - but these are the blks that I have finished the 24 of - then 24 more, and 15 big, and I am done the blocks!! And that was my goal. To have all the guild challenge blocks done by the end of March - no, to have the blks done this week and it all sewn together by the end of March - and into the quilters it will go!!!

I am finishing my projects!! All of 'em!! and I will be busting my stash - and then getting myself a new one!!!!

So, this week, nothin in, nothing out and I am still working on the guild quilt, the christmas quilt, and, thankfully, I have not started anything new!!!

In Like a Lamb!!

2010-03-01T07:26:00.000-08:00

It is March!! Wow. It doesn't feel like it should be March yet, but it's here..... And it's Design Wall Monday to boot!!

Not much very exciting on my wall - basically the same as last week, but with a few more blue blocks. If I had more of the last row cut, there would have been more to show, but I ran out of the strips, so here is what I have done this week:

No more blocks for the Piece & Goodwill quilt to show, but I have sewn a few leader/ender pieces for it. I have done more cutting for my blue blks last night - and I think they will look great when all done. So, this is it. Next week, I want to be done the smaller blks, and be working on the large ones........... That will be nice. But, first, I want to have these all cut to their proper sizes before I move on to the next step. I do not want to leave it to the end to size them all up - that would make me crazy!!! Just do it as they are done, and that is one step less to worry about!!

I am off to work today. This week is 10-5 Monday to Friday! Next week, some days I work late, but hey, it's all good!! It's quiet, and not a whole lot to do besides dusting!! Constuction dust!! That will be around awhile..... It gives me something to do when there are not alot of people coming in. The store itself is very nicely done. Rich looking, nice colours. It's a very classy store. And it's fun to see people come in for the first time. They did a great job at making a liquer store look expensive, but they are keeping their prices low!!

Okay time for me to go get ready for work!! Have a great day and enjoy this very first day of March and make it the best you can!! Better if you sew a bit and get these projects done that have been hanging around, trying to get our attention!!!

It's a new month, and new week, so lets set some goals and make it happen!!!!

Stash Busting - 186 yrds!

2010-02-28T10:18:00.000-08:00

Yup, my totals are growing in the stash department!!

I have added about 8 yrds to it with my purchase this week. But, I like the gold and am not mad at myself at all!!

The gold is a Robert Kaufman - 'Fusions'. I have about 4 yrds of it now.... but is sure is pretty!!

Yes, I have been sewing daily - 20 minutes a day at least, even it that 'sewing' time is cutting, it sure makes a difference when I do get down the actual sewing part.

And I have gotten the call to come pick up my big machine from the repair shop. I guess I didn't kill it after all!! That is a good thing, really thought I had. And, the repair is under a $100 - so I didn't do anything to awful after all. I was sure it was going to be an expensive fix.

So, this is this weeks report!! It's been a great week and tomorrow is the start to another great week. I am at my new job and I like it. Alot quieter than my last job!! And even though some nights I will be there till 11, it's only a 5 minute drive to home, so it's really nice.

And the Olymics are over - almost, we have a hockey game to win tonight - then 'normal' TV will be back on and, funny, but I really haven't missed any of the shows....... hmmmmm. Really enjoyed the Olympics this year though. First time I really watched them too - could it because they were held in Cananada that made the differnce??? I don't know!

I am off to work today!!

2010-02-23T08:13:00.000-08:00

Yup, they asked me to come in today at 1 o'clock, to check out the store and learn some stuff!! We don't open till Friday, and I got the news last night, (why she didn't tell me earlier I don't know, - oh, right, she wasn't talkin' to me!!) - My daughter is working there too!! She found out the day of the interview, so, over a week ago. I am glad for her. She is at the end of her high school carreer, and she is so done with everything right now. I hope she keeps her head and just finishes her school days and then, moves onto a higher education.....

Went to the dentist yesterday. I get to go back in June!! I am so excited!!! And she wants me to see a real dentist for a check up, x-rays and everything!! oh, I can't stand it!!! And, then we might talk about getting a crown for my tooth!!! A crown!!! I wounder if it will have diamonds on it??? If it's kind of pointy, it might help break up the food as I chew, but brushing might be a pain......... We will see what happens I guess!

And, I hit the quilt shop - oh boy.... I should have just kept going to the grocery store instead!! Yup, I bought more fabric - but it's so pretty!! And I found a blue that will make a nice border for my guild challenge. Unless I change my mind......

Here are my newest additons to Brenda's stash!!

Here is my fabrics - I took the rest of the bolt on the gold and the blue one.

the rest are FQ's

I think this gold is sooooo pretty!!! I was looking through some patterns the other night, and saw one that had gold in it, and I don't have any more gold. So, now I do. And I am breaking the habit of only buying FQ's!! I am now, if I like it, going to buy lager pieces. Makes it a good thing for borders and backing!!

Here is a close up of the FQ's. I have a lighter version of the border - I picked it up first before I saw the darker bolt and thought, hmmmm. And I love the brighter blue one!!! The top one is Christmas fabric, love it!! So, I took two of the FQ's on that fabric!!

And here is the last of my FQ's. A lighter gold, and a batik. This batik makes me think of a circus!! I think it will be great in my project(s). It has tons of colour in it, so I can use it anywhere!! The gold I bought can be used on Christmas projects or just where I think it will look good.

So this was my shopping yesterday. $100 worth.

Funny how fast that adds up isn't it.....

Design Wall Monday!!

2010-02-21T22:23:00.001-08:00

It's Monday again, and I am off to the dentist this morning!! Oh what fun, uh, yeah, okay then..... but I thought I would at least show you my wall before I left today.

Here is what I am up to - Here I have made 4 more block for the Peace and Goodwill quilt a few of us are doing from Shannon's Christmas blog.

I think I like 'em!!

I have also made more pieces for these blks and I am not as 'done' as thought the other day!! When I counted the middle green/red squares, I am 9 short!! I have a few more pieces to make before I can really be done at least one part of this project!!

And here are some of my bits and pieces waiting to be the next choosen for the next block!!!

I am using a wide variety of the reds and greens and neutrals for this project. It's fun to see how far your miscellaneous pieces can go!!

I also am working on my guild challange. These blks are not as fun as I thought they would be, but I do like them - and am looking forward to seeing them all put together.

So, this is the next 4 of the 63 blocks I need for this project - 48 6.5" ones, two different kinds, centers are 2.5" & 3.5". The ones I worked on today, are the 3.5" centers. Only 17 more of this

size to go then!!! And I will get them done. This is the first challange that I am going to have finished on time. It has to be done by June, so I thought I would get it done way sooner than that - and yes, completly done!!! Have a super day and enjoy yourself! Keep sewing!!

Stash Busting - moved up 178 1/4 yrds!!

2010-02-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

I didn't report last week, that I had bought fabrics, but I did 6 yrds as a matter of fact!! Picture of them are in a past post.

I just feel like buying fabric - not a good thing!! But I feel okay about it because I just have not been feeling very creative lately, and that little urge to go and check out a store to see what's out there, lets me know the fire may not be burning, but it is smoldering and will come back!!

I am going to spend today sewing, making more pieces for the "Peace and Goodwill" quilt. And make a block or two today!! I am also making more of my guild challenge blocks - this is my number one priority for this month!!

And, here is some exciting news - I have bought these CD's to help me learn to quilt!!! On my machine at home, so I can make something and get it finished, without waiting for my long arm quilter to do it. They are on the way to me now, and I am going to lean this skill and be a master of my machine..... and speaking of machines, I have not heard back yet from the store where I took my big machine in to get fixed............. Did I kill it??? How much is the damage???? Is it time for a new machine???? I hope not. Much as I pretend I would like it, I just do not want to have that in my finacial view right now!! I want to put my money somewhere else, and a new machine can wait!! It would be fun though wouldn't it?? lol!! Okay, off to sew the day away!!!! After I have come and seen what you've been up to, of course!!!

Nice Day Off

2010-02-19T16:47:00.001-08:00

I have spent the day - sewing!! It has been fun. Listening to music, Queen started off my day and I worked on my guild challenge.

I have a few more to make, uh, quit a few, but I think they will be fun when done. I probably didn't need to buy more fabric, but it's all good. I love scraps, and I love blue, and I have a new book that shows me new ways to use up my 'leftovers'!!

I really enjoyed going through Bonnies "Leaders and Enders book yesterday!! Found a couple quilts that I liked and I also found a border or two that I could use on this project....... or not!!! I will see. I am not sure if I should do a peiced border or just a plain one, it would all have to be blue no matter what I decide so......

I also did a little piecing on my Piece and Goodwill quilt. I have two blocks done, and alot of pieces sewn together. So, today I realized I have enough red/green pieces to do the center 4 patch on the blocks, and sewed a few of them together. Mindless sewing, with peices coming together, but not a block done yet. I have had a very nice day.

Here are the 4 patches!!

Close up of the green pieces:

OMG!!!!

2010-02-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

I just got the shock of my life!!
I have been waiting for Bonnie Hunters new book "Leader and Enders" and I found it on my kitchen table this morning - one of my beautiful daughters got the mail the other day, but left it in a bag and left it on the messy table and I didn't see it - till just about 20 minutes ago!! Well, I pulled it out of the envelope it came in and started reading - yes, reading - I always start at the begining and read it, tips, things that she thought we should know about, then I will get to the patterns!! Well, on page 15 she has a page that says " What Quilters are saying about Bonnie Hunter's Leaders & Enders method" - I am quoted on this page!!!!!!!!!! Bottom left hand side, that me!!!! I was shocked!!!!!!!!! Still am!!!!! Oh, way to cool!!! I am in a book!! Bonnie's book!!! How fantastic is that!! Love it!! How much fun is this, I am quoted in a book people are going to read. I am just smiling here. this is way to much fun!!!! Thanks Bonnie for using my words. I am honored. Thank-you.

BOM blk

2010-02-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

I did my very easy Block of the Month last night. It took about 20 minutes to sew together - I had it cut out the night before, and it's a nice easy blk. Sometimes simple is nice. And these blks I am liking. I just might do something with these blks!!!! No, I will do something with them - no maybe about it. Changing habits is what it is all about for me this year, and finishing is a huge habit that I will create.

Here is my blk!!!

See, simple!! The owner of the store fought breast cancer a couple years ago, and wants to go back to the basics. And not have a hard blk to create for herself and for us!! It's nice - no applique and fussy stuff, blks I really don't like. These, some of the patterns I could see making a quilt from!! And, I like the easy, quick, part!! I can get it done in the sewing time I have alloted to myself.

And, all my bought fabrics have been washed - so nothing to stop me now from making my guild challange blks!!

See Myra!! Picture!!!!

I got the Job!!!

2010-02-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

I phoned them, today, about the job - I was supposed to hear from them yesterday, either way. Before I left for work, I had not heard anything. I didn't know what to think. I told myself not to stress about it, and I tried not to, but I certainly was not my usual self. And, it was shocking slow at work!!! Nobody could believe how empty the store was!!! NOTE TO ANYONE WHO SHOPS COSTCO: Go on Family Day!!! Especially after 5 o'clock!! We figure most people thought we would be closed, it was not a normal busy day - and when they realized we were open, that we would have Sunday/holiday hours. Nope. Open our normal store hours. And with door counts of 27, then 17 people around the 6- 7 hours, you know how slow it was!!! So, we got out of there early, and with everything done, and done well!!!

So, today, I got up woundering if somehow I had missed thier call. Sometimes I don't get messages..... but I was not sure. And then I was not sure if I should call - but I have to leave here by 10:30 today to get to work on time and so, I phoned them. And, she was busy, but glad I called and said she was going to phone me later - and that if I was still interested, they would like to hire me. And when I said yes, I was still interested, she said she would let me know the schedual later. So, we hung up and I have a new job. In town. Walking distance. I am not sure exactly how I am feeling!! I have made friends at Costco, people that I enjoy being around, and I am going to miss them. I am not going to miss the job. And I am not going to miss the crazy hours - never knowing week to week what hours I am being booked for. But I am so grateful for them hiring me when they did - they helped me through a tight time, and for that, I so happy to have been a Costco employee. I wounder what this job is going to be like???

Here is what I am up to right now - although, I gave myself a talking to last night, after I had unsewn most of these pieces!! GET TO WORK ON THE GUILD CHALLANGE!!!! So, that is what I will be doing this week instead of this one:

This is another one of Carols challenges!! From Years ago!!! It is a challenge to make a quilt out of the same size rectangle - the whole quilt out of this one shape and the due date is long gone past!!! But, I was going to do it!! And I did - then didn't like what I was creating, so yesterday, I pulled this mess out of the pile I have and layed them out on the design wall, and then spent the rest of the time in my room unsewing them.........

So, now that I am back to basic pieces, I really don't want to have to unsew anymore, I wil figure out what I am going to do with what I have already created. I am working to get my projects FINISHED!!!! And I am tired of all bits and pieces I have. Once I have some $$ together, I will shock my quilter with a huge pile of things she can do when she can, no rush!!! And I will be so happy to have my beautiful projects DONE!!!!

Okay, I have to go get myself ready for work now!!! Oh happy day!!!!!!!!! ((hugs))))

Pictures!!

2010-02-13T10:04:00.000-08:00

I bought fabric!!!! I took my big machine in to be fixed - finally - and looked around the store...... I just needed some relaxed time and to explore and see if anything grabs my attention. Well, I wandered the whole store and I found a 1/2 meter batik that I kinda liked..... held it for a minute then put it back, oh look!! A nice orange wool fabric for the snowmens noses!! A PhD wll hanging that has been in hiding for a very long time....... so I held onto that fabric........ and then I finally got to the bin of FQ's. BINGO!!! And I did go back and grab the other 1/2 meter piece and we came home!!

I am still collecting lights and darks of this fabric for a future project - and I know I don't have any oranges or colors like this, I aim to go for the dark's and that is so true because the first ones came in a group setting, and the ones I choose are the dark ones at the end.... the 1/2 meter is the one just before the last orange one.....

Now I will show you the blues I picked up the other day at my BOM class. These are for my guild challange. I like them. I am also on the lookout for a nice border for this project - but I do not have to have it right now.

I stuggle to put pictures on here, I end up loosing them!! It drives me nuts!!! but here I go again......

4 more batiks, that I liked and thought I could add to my collection. Walking into my sewing room a few minutes ago, I should not be adding ato my collection at all!!! I should be doing the many projects I have bought kits for!!!! But they are so pretty!!!!

I am now going to show you the top I have done with the blks I showed you in a earlier post - I have sewn them together, as is and used a dark border to finish it off. I have informed Myra, the PhD leader - that I consider this a 'finish' for the challange. Reason is, I am working to get all my projets to the top stage - get them out of boxes and put together - once as a top, I can take them in to be quilter, since I do not do that myself, yet. So, here is the second Christmas Quilt I have done this year!!! With alot of help from my friends!! These blks came from a swap I did on the HGTV web site with my friend Sandie, and here is the outcome of a swap I actually sewed together!!! (yes, I do have others that are sitting in a box.....)

Ignore the bottom left hand side!!! I didn't realize that was in the picture till I got looked at it, It is fabric I am planning on using in my Piece and Goodwill quilt that I am making with Sandie and Shannon for Shannon's Christmas Blog!! It is from the Nov/Dec issue of Quiltmaker magazine!!

I am using up scraps, and it's a good thing becaue you don't realize how many you have till you find a place to put them!! And I like it - each blk will be different, but I know it will work when it's done. And I already like it - even though I am only 2 blk in and it wants me to make 30. And anything goes here, if it's the right colour, green or red or a nice soft neutral, I cut it up and it's in the pile!! The only thing I am doing is making the right hand side of the pointy green blks a darker green than the left one. And the tips of these blks I am trying to make them have gold in them. But if they don't, it's all good!!!!

Now onto my next fun thing!!! I do not drink alot of things where I have to use a styrofoam cup, but when I do, those things are hot to hold!!! Well, a long time ago, I thought to myself "Self, make one out of fabric and that silver lined batting you use for pot holder!! Keep this sleeve and make yourself a pattern!!!" so, I didn't!!!! I did keep the sleeve though - and I am so glad I did because I found this woman who did exactly what I had planned!!! And these work up really fast and it's also the demo I did at my guild meeting the other night!!! Very quick, VERY easy and I love 'em!!!!!!

And here is one of the 'boxes' I told you about that holds my UFO projects!! I have made these reverable, and please DO NOT TRY TO SEW THROUGH STICKY VELCRO!!!!!!! Your machine will rebel and make your life miserable!!! And if I try it again, remind me that I knew that!!!!! I figure if, and when, the velcro comes off, I will, and can sew it on then, but not before!! I love this. Now, before I loose any more pictures - yup, just had to replace the first one - again!!! I am running away screaming and taking my beautiful daugher to the city for a day out with Mom and for shoes!!!! Happy Valentines Day!!!!!

Friday

2010-02-12T10:11:00.000-08:00

I made myself a promise this year, to blog more than I had been, and so , here I am again. I actually took picutes too!! I have them still in my camera, but I have them - missing one though, so I will get that one and then share them with you.

I am just sitting here, nervous. My interview for the job in town is in an hour...... Oh, how I want this job. It' s not even funny how much I want to be in town again. I don't mind the drive to my job now, I use the time to think and dream and just have some me time. What I do mind though, is coming home to a messy house where no one does anything - and if I was in town, that would stop - right now. No complaining alloweed here, so .......

I am nervous. More nervous than I thought I would be. Why??? ahhhhhh....... If I don't get it, it just means that something better is on the agenda, but, in all honesty, I do not want to go back to my 'old' job............ Oh, I don't like that thought. I am grateful for my job, I am glad I have it. I enjoy the people I work with and they like me too. I even went out for coffee after work the other night with a group of them (first time) and I had fun. So, I will keep that thought in my head as I get myself ready and out the door today. My next day off is Wednesday............. And I won't think about that either!!! lol!!

Okay, I am off for an interview for a job I really want to get. My tummy is so tight it's not funny. And I usually don't feel this way. When I first saw the sign about this job, months ago, I got this flood of emotion that said, "This in your job!!" And, it felt so true and right, that I just knew I had it. Now, today, is the day of reality. Will they like me?? Will I honestly have a new job after today???? And when will they let me know????????????? I am going to drive myself crazy here.
Gotta go. Just thought I'd share.

Another Sunday - Nothing to Report!!

2010-02-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I have finished - gotten to the top stage, so for me, since I do not 'quilt' my projects yet myself, have finished for now, one of my UFO's or PhD's!! It is the blks I had done a swap with - oh boy, a couple years ago now?? Time is just flying by me it seems. Things I think I did about 6 months ago, uh, no, try 2 yrs ago............ But it's all good!!

No picture yet, - I will get one. I have been doing my 20 minutes of sewing a day - it does make a huge difference for me. It makes a dent in the things I want to do, and keeps my thinking and planning. And it's a great way to get myself energized. Either at night when I am tired and just want to go to bed, if I have not done my time, I go in there and sit to do something - cutting, sewing, something that is related to this craft, and I come out, sometimes way past the 20 minutes - but when I do come back out, I feel calmer, happier, and relaxed....... I love this feeling. I do enjoy the gift I have given myself, of sewing for the 20 minutes a day. Sometime, this is all the time I have to give myself, but it's my time and I totally enjoy the whole process!!

Yes, I am actively looking for another job. The other day, a woman came throught the till and we got talking. She was asking why we didn't carry large filter for coffee pots that business' use. I asked here where she worked. And innocent question - so she told me. Then I asked if they were looking for help... not such an innocent question, but it usually makes people laugh, and I like that!! Well, she actually said yes! And, it's at a fitness place - I am not so fit..... told her that! This was all still in fun, the conversation, but at the end of it, she gave me her card, and I told her if she got a resume' that said: presently working at Costco, it's probably mine - she said she would remember me!! lol!! So, yes, I am going to drop off a resume, and even if nothing else, she was fun to talk to and I just might have a place get fit in!!

I also have an interview this Friday for the liquor store. In town, easy to walk to, well, a good walk to keep me fit anyways!!! And I could still use it as my time to listen to motivational CD's on my walkman!! This is how I spend my 2 hour drive to work now, listening to people saying how great it can and will be - so might as well keep that up while I go to my new job!! Positive thinking here!! Yup, I will have a new job soon.

And I still have my resume in a the greenhouse. Wouldn't it be cool if I could do all three jobs??!! I think it would be crazy fun though!! Get my green thumb growing, work out, and have fun there, and then relax and joke with the people coming to get their fix.... hmmmmm

Okay, my stash report is - well, I did use up some for the borders on my top.... let's make it 3/4 of a yard. I used up two pieces to make this border and they were both small pieces.

So my new number for today is - can I have a drum roll please!! - 172 1/4 yards!!!

My goal, I guess is to use up what I have counted so next year, I can start from zero and go down from there!!! It is actually fun for me to use up what I have - especially since I only bought things that caught my eye, and mostly FQ's!! Not to many large pieces of fabric in my stash - mostly fun things, novelty prints. When it comes to borders and the like, backings - I realize that I need to rethink my buying habit, so I have started to buy larger pieces!

Okay, I need to get myself out the door for another 8 hr day a this job that I love, yeah, I love my job, I love my job, I love my job..... I am blessed to have this job. And that last one, I do mean. So, have a great Sunday, and Sew to your Hearts content!!!!

Valentines day and PhD on wall.......

2010-01-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I am thinking Valentines today, and Martha Stewart sent me some info on making stuff for it today!!! Cards!! Lots of different cards - and that just might be fun to do!!!

And, I pulled off the D9P from my design wall, and pulled out a PhD today - one that is not on my list, but one that I want to do. I was in a swap a few years ago now, and I have the blks on there, roughly, and am deciding what I want to do with them. So far, I am thinking of a sashing between them - but the fabric I have that I liked as the break up fabric, well, I do not have very much of it.... Looks like I need to do a little shopping here!!!

It feels good to be working on something, other than the bit's and pieces I have been doing. My leader/enders have turned into my 20 min sewing projects, which defeats the whole purpose it them!!!!! So, I thought to myself "self - get out a UFO and get to work on it!! You told yourself that you wanted to get through 2 a month - AND - you joined Myra's PhD challenge and here you are piddling around with nothing to show for it!!!!", so I listened to me, and I have a project up to be worked on.........

With tons more waiting to be shown the light of day.............

And I possibly have tomorrow off so......... besides doing something with the hamburger I bought yesterday, I will be sewing.

This is not a great picture of the fabric, but what I like about it is, it's got a dark background with gold through it - I am thinking the blackness of it will calm the blks down. I was thinking of putting them into sets of 4, with sashing all around them and a gold cornerstone in each corner....... Am I getting my quilty terms right!?!?! I love when I call what I think is the right word for it, and it's just so not what I am talking about! ah well. I am off to work now - enough with my creative thinking and contemplating for today. Back to packing groceries into boxes for people and just have some fun..... yeah!! Hi, ho, hi, ho, it's off to work I go..........

Design Wall Monday!! - Jan 25

2010-01-25T13:22:00.000-08:00

Well, nothing has changed on my wall - except I have a couple more of my blue box bocks on it - but I have not updated my picture.

This is still what it looks like today. I have been cutting and doing a little sewing, which I still need to get to today. I have stayed home from work the last two days, and don't want to go in today, but I will......... Saterday on my way in, I decided instead to spend a bit of time stuck in the ditch in a snowbank instead!!! So, I didn't go in that day!! I was having fun stuck there!! I was shocked when I realized my car was doing all kinds of funky things on the road - very unexpectedly, and no, I was not driving real fast!!! I did make one big mistake and as soon as I did it, I knew I was in trouble!!! Do not put your foot on the brake!!! I hope I remember that, if I ever get in that situation again!!! lol!! But I was fine. Lots of people drive down that road, I was surprised - so I met alot of really nice people!! And I had already phoned for help to come, so I was not there long. I could have made it to work, would have been a little late, but, eh, I went home instead. And yesterday, I just wanted to be home with my kids. So, I stayed here..... This is not who I am at all. When I have a job, I am there - but even my gut is telling me not to go.... Did I tell you about the dream I had (felt like all night long????) right before the new year?? This little guy, I don't know who he was, told me "Do not to go in tomorrow, or Thursday, and he wanted me to take Saterday off too. " Of course, Friday was New Years Day, and the store was closed. Well, I woke up, laughed at the this crazy dream and went to work. Wednesday and Thursday. Thursday though, I had a sore throat, which kept feeling worse as the day wore on. I spent New Years Day, sick on the couch, and had no choice but not go in on Saterday, was to sick. So, even my dreams are trying to keep me home!!!!

Yesterday, I got to eat with my kids!!!!! Yeah!!! I made spinach maincotti and veggies - it was good!!! Tonight, I have a Spinach Lasagne in the fridge ready for them to pop in the oven and cook for tonights meal, and I have plans for tomorrows dinner too. If I can't be here, at least I can cook for them. I really am missing being home. So much that I am even cleaning things, just so I can feel good about not going in to work. Can not think of a reason to stay home today....... so I am going in. Funny, but I don't mind the drive to work. It's just - I want a job that fills my soul with joy. And this is not it.

Have a great Monday. Oh, and yes, a job can fill you up with happiness. I have had that type of situation twice now, and I know it will come again. today would be nice.........lol!!

Stashbusting!! Still at 160 yrds!

2010-01-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my project half done - that I do not have writtin on my PHD challange list!!

Oh - yes I do, this one with the flowers!! This is "G's Quilt" and it 's on there. The others, not on there, but need to be done. I was told a blog should have photo's.... so here these are at the 1/2 done stage!!!! And no, I have not been working on them, but they have been on my mind.......

I have been sewing, did not buy anthing this week, but have no changes to report.

I shouldn't say I've been 'sewing' - I have actually been cutting and that takes alot of time!!! I am creating a kit of pieces for my guild challange - so I now have 3 bags with 3 bags each of the pieces needed for the 3 different blks that the quilt is asking for. And, since I have changed the last row to be 1/4" wider to help with the squaring up of blks (which I am not not enjoying doing!!!) the one thing I didn't think of is: I need to make the last row 1/4" longer!!!!! So the last two pieces that I need to cut for each blk, has to have 1/4" added to it's lenghth. Then, they will all fit together nicely!!! I respect and admire any designers who can make the pieces for a quilt go together smoothly!!! I bow down to you!!!! And I thank-you all from the bottom of my heart!!! There are a few designers that I don't even have to think when I use their instuctions, and after just doing a slight 1/4 change on this pattern, what a difference that little change makes to the whole outcome!!!!

Design Wall Monday!! - Jan 18

2010-01-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

Well, not very exciting stuff on my 'wall' of indecision, but I have up there a "PhD" - my D9P. It is not what I want it to be.... I do not want a square throw!!! Has to be rectangular - but my stuggle is, how to make it so....... I have some ideas, but I am not sure yet what I'll do. I also have my guild challange square blks up there, just 'cause.

I am working on them, in the sense that I am cutting out fabrics for it, but not sewing right now. I have made on change to my pattern - the last row of every blk is now being cut an extra 1/4" so I have some room for squaring them up the right size when a blk is sewn. My first two are just squeaking by, and I want some wiggle room!!

So, I am doing great at keeping up with my 20 minutes of sewing a day - and am getting caught up with the days I've missed too!!! Still working on last year, but I am into Dec. now!!! I am working and still keeping up with things I want to do too!!! Except movies...... I want to go to the movies, but work is interfering with that!!!!! lol!!

Daughter graduates this year. We have bought the 'dress' - and now, right now I mean, I have her talking behind me about buying a car....oh my!!! Constant chatter back there behind me, and it's funny to listen to. Trying to figure out what kind she wants, what's good on gas, she likes yellow (my least favorite colour!! Especially in a car!!!!), and she would rather buy it from a dealership, a 'good' dealership!!!

But I do agree, she needs a car. With me gone all the time working, and we share my car..... she is stuck here unless someone else can give her a ride to where she wants to go so..... I do understand her desire for a car. I just can't help her with it. This will be her bill, and it's not like she's got the money either. Then insurance for her. Another reason for wanting to have a job closer to town. Save us both some money.

Job wise - this is interesting: I have put my name in the hat to work in the Costco greenhouse. And I have my name at the greenhouse close to town. I would really enjoy working with plants and be outside for the summer months!!! I love it outside, so I am really hoping this will pan out for me.

I have my resume in my vehicle now, at all times, so if I come across a place that interests me and I think I might want to work there, I am ready to apply!!!

I am going to find a job I love. Where work in play, and the hours are never long. And since I have had jobs like this before, I know I will find another one!!!

See you next Monday!!! Stay sewing and lets get this done!!!!

Stash Busting - 160 yrds!

2010-01-17T07:20:00.000-08:00

I have made changes!!

I used about 14 yrds to make Christmas lights, and then I went and bought 4 FQ's!

So, my stash is now standing at about 160 yrds.........

I will work on more projects and get my numbers down - it will be interesting to see how much space I can create this year in my little room. How many projects will come out of hiding and start haning around, either as quilts or wall haninging. OH, fabric bowls too!! I like them!!

See you next sunday!!

Design Wall!

2010-01-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

I finished the border on my Christmas Lights!!

It looks really good - so off to the quilter it will go!!

On my wall today is my guild challange: A one colour quilt, your choice of size and pattern. Me, I want a throw - and out of blue. So this is the start of it. It is due in June - completly finished. I have a challange in front of me, and I have taken it!

Stash Busting - still 173 yrds

2010-01-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

I have not changed my numbers, but I have sewn!! Everyday! So, I am making dents in my stash, still using up scraps. I love my scraps.

I started my guild challenge of a one colour quilt last night. It will be more labour intensive than I first thought........ But so worth it!!!! I have only done two blocks - but I like them.

I will do my border today, finally, on Christmas Lights and show my blue blocks tomorrow!!

(my daughter wants to go to the city - so that is where I am off to today........ this cuts into my sewing time big time!!!!)

Thursday Night

2010-01-07T18:37:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning with the list I had created last night of things I wanted done on my day off. One was getting all the info on my blog about the PhD challenge. Took a bit of time, but I did it!!! Along with my short list of things on the go - and I was quite pleased that my morning had been productive. I was having my late breakfast, ready to go into my sewing room and work on my last border, when the phone rang.....

Yup, I got a call asking if I wanted to come in to work....... Uh 'no thank-you' but..... I went.

5 hr shift, which is 7 hrs for me - and now that I am home, I am tired. I've been home almost 2 hrs. Had supper. Came on here to see if anything is new, and now, I need to get the energy to go and sew. If not sew, iron the red material. That is half the battle. This was written in my day timer a week or so ago, that today would be the day the borders were done on this quilt. I do not want to dissapoint myself. I also do not want to be making mistakes. I work tomorrow and Saturday. My next day off is Sunday. I do not want to wait that long. Sunday, I want to be working on something else..... but which one to pick first....... hmmmm

Have you head about Judy L's 'Quiltathon'?? It's next weekend, Jan 16 - 17th, and I get to work it!! But, I thought - "Hey, this would be a great way to make a dent in the PhD challenge!!!"

Here is to making our plans work and our dreams come true! One I wake up, I am all over it!!!

I have to go iron some fabric - I really want to see the red border on the top!!!!

Do you think I need to worry about that wrinkle in the corner there??? Or will the quilting 'iron' it out???

I didn't know which picture I liked better, so I used both of them. And the next one is the corner, up close and personal!!

I should just go grab a book and have a bath.

That would be nice. And then sleep....

It's almost done. I like it.

I am Commited to doing my PhD's!!!

2010-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

So, here is my proof that I have publicly announce that - I am finishing projects that I have started. I said I would do '10'. And, last night after pulling out my list of things on the go, I took these projects off my list I made as I was heading into 2009. This means that these projecs are now a year older than they were last year when I wanted them done!!!!!

I honestly believe it is time to put these puppies to bed.

I will have them listed on my side bar.

This is only a few I picked from my list. Ones that I think I can get done in the 6month time frame with work and everything else as a consideration. But, I have the time - we all do - it's just using the time to our advantage. Some people blow me away with what they get done in a 24 hr. period. So, what's stopping me from doing the same????? Just me. Habits. With this challenge, I am going to be changing habits - for the better!!

One of my 'life changing habits" I am changing is: I finish everything I start. I do not leave it - for years!!!!!! It's amazing how long some of these things have been waiting for my attention again. And I wanted to do these - make them for my walls, and I start with high hopes, then, I stop..........

No more. I am on a roll. Today, I will have the red border on my Christmas lights. Binding will be cut now, so it's ready and waiting for it's time to be used. And I am going to contact my quilter and see if she can take this in, and I am on finishing streak!!!! Granted, I am still at the starting gate, but at least I am heading in the right direction!!!

Come join the challange. And if I did this all right - Thanks Myra!!! - you will get taken to our fearless leader's blog and let her know you want in!!!!

PhD's - look out!!!

2010-01-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

Well, Myra, I am in........

I have a very large colletion of PhD's - Projects half Done. Or the flying saucer things - UFO's but my UFO's are just hovering and not doing anything exciting, so, it's time (has been for a long time now!!) to get these DONE!! Finished. Complete. Make room for something else.

It's amazing to me how I can keep moving on from one project to another and not even think twice. These undone projects take up alot space in my room. And really helps with the mess I posted already this year. I am publicly commiting myself to getting these done.
On my list I started to create as '09 was ending of things I would like to see myself doing this year - 2 of these projects a month is #4 - Finish Phd's!!!! At least "2" a month.

Okay, I am going public with my goal! I am now accountable to others. I am going to be making my side bar list later on today, or tomorrow. And figuring out how to get the link to Myra's blog..... Right now, I have a border to put on my Christmas Lights, and make sure I am ready to go to work by 2.
I was woken up this morning earlier than I wanted to be, so that is not a good thing. I am ready for a nap, but don't have the time if I want to get my sewing done. And, since I wanted the border done by tomorrow, I have to get the 2nd one today, so tomorrow I can get on the third!! Yeah!!! And make the binding for this project and I am ready to move on to the next best thing - getting my projects that have been waiting a long time, done. PLUS - I have moncromatic quilt that I have to have done, complete, finished, by my guilds wind up meeting in June of this year!!!

so, I have definite plans and goals to work on this year!!! thanks Myra for the push!!!

(I will be working on this page later with what need to be included here!!)

first Design Wall post for 2010!!

2010-01-04T10:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas Lights - is on my design wall. Still waiting for the next two borders....

My one daughter keeps looking at this quilt...... hmmmm, could this be her's????

Till next week, and a new picture!!

Sunday Stash Report - Jan 3 - 173 yrds

2010-01-03T09:50:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been awhile since I've thought about this part of my 'hobby'. Stash Reports.

Last year, I was going to figure out how much fabric I have. I counted alot of it, but I also left a fair bit uncounted. It's going to stay that way. So, my numbers are going to work for me - I am starting 'fresh' with the number I had as my total last time I did this, and it will change as I finish things, so can count that fabric as used, and if I buy anything to add to the pile.....

My stash stands at: 173 yrds
nothing in and nothing out

And that is where I will start the year at. Here is to finishing everything I have started.

And yes, I started a new thing yesterday..... "Piece & Goodwill" from the Quiltmaker magazine #130. I was just going through my stash looking for the scraps I could use in this - reds, greens and neutrals. Then, I put them all into seperated bags... Then thought, why not cut some pieces, while you are not feeling good and are just watching TV anyway, so I did....... then I got up yesterday morning and found more little scraps I could cut from all three bags...... then, well, how hard is it to do that square piece on the green rectangle?? Do I have to mark every square so it lines up right on the rectange and will work like it's supposed to??? Had to check out my skill, so, now, I have actually started working on this project!! I am still going to be doing it as leader/enders, but I am having fun with it right now.

Yes, the Christmas Lights is still waiting for border #2, I have them cut and waiting. Border fabric #3 is still waiting to be ironed!

I love to sew little pieces of fabric together. I really enjoy that. Cutting out and working with large pieces of material.... not so much!! But borders have to be cut and sewn on too, so it will be done!

Janurary 1 - Great day for a year to start!!

2010-01-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

I just got Ami Simms newsletter and this was found in it!! Do you have your New Years Resolution yet?? This will help: http://moninavelarde.com/newyears/ Have some fun!!

Well, I am a little frustrated with myself right now. Reading Shannon's blog the other day, the Christmas one, I realized, the block she shows, I have the pattern!!!! (this is not a good thing!!!!) So, yesterday I thought I would spend today, in my sewing room....

'Planning' and 'Doing' here are two seperate things. I am getting better at doing my plans, but it still needs some work. Anyway, I got into my room and - I am a junk collector!!!! Realization hit me today. I am a pack rat, a horder, a messy person!!!!! And people call me organized!! If they only knew.....
This is my 'organized closet. When you can see it, ahem, it's a nice system.....

This is the mess I walk by to get to my sewing table. It is between my table and the closet....... Most of this was out in the hall, but my daughter finally made a comment about it one day, it being outside of her door and all, that I brought in here..... where there was no room for it...... I am a pack rat!!!!! Because I still feel I need to keep it all!!!! This, the bins on the front is my cross stich stuff - and yes, I still do it. So, I don't think I should get rid of it, but I also don't think my family should have to be subjected to my hobbies either......

This is what is after the cross stich bins, it's another pile of 'things on the go' that, I honesly do not want .......ahhhhh!!!!!...... to have my room like this anymore - ever again, or even - how did I let it get to this point in the first place??????

And here is where I sew. When I got in here this morning, it was covered with papers, patterns, books, anything that I didn't have a spot to put it, so I put it on this table...... I couldn't put the books away because of the mess between the closet and the table....... Never again. NEVER. I will get my room to work for me. I will sew and create and make this room beautiful.

I just created a 'Goals' list on my side bar. Now, you can see what is on my mind and remind me if you see something on there to long. Sometimes I need a push. Or a shove. Or even my head in a toilet to see that I am not doing things right!!!!! No sense having a plan if you don't follow it! Then it's just another list of thing that I guess just don't matter... but they do!!!

I was looking for reds and greens for the blk. shown on Shannon's blog so I can make one along with her. Well, what I found was that I had more than one container that is holding scraps!!!!!! Tiny, itty bitty scraps to almost fat quarter size - in the same container!!! Not organzied by color, heaven's no!!! Just thrown in a pile...... This is the last time. No more. If I don't need it, it's gone. Like, hello!?! Toss it for crying out loud!!!!! I will not use it - I know I won't. So why is it still here?????? So, while I sorted through all my mis. boxes of scraps (they were everywhere!!) I have a very nice pile of reds, greens and neutral fabric - scraps!! that I will use to make this blk. All 30 of them!!! They are all in seperate bags, and cutting out scraps for this quilt is going to take some time....... but, I am making this top - and not having to purchase anything for it. It will be done. I am not in a hurry though. I am going to be making it while I work on my other projects. All the pieces for this Christmas quilt, can be made as leader/enders while I finish my other projects. Two quilts at once. I just have to do the tedious cutting of the small scraps to make this work. I will love to do it.

What I am going to love more though, is watching my mess turn into a quilt. Turn into a great place to be creative, and to watch me finish what I start. This is a great way to start a great year!!!!

I love leaders/enders. When I am doing a project, I will get my fabrics for it, and then, put the leftovers where I will then make leader/enders cuts out of it. And, big huge - AND - it will be sorted and stored and USED!!!!!!

Going through this mess, guess who found projects hidden under the mess?! I am so not happy with me right now!!! I didn't realize how bad I had let it go. Now I know, now I will do better.

Resulutions??? Yes. Clean up my act is one. Be the organized person I know I can be. It will make working on my projects so much nicer - easier too. I won't 'loose' the project I 'knew was right here'.

I am finishing PhD's this year. (Projects half Done) I have a ton. Goal: one a month minimum.

Get rid of things I won't do - like that mystery flannel quilt........ it's been hanging around for a long time now........ long time!!!! Surprised it hasn't grown legs yet and left on it's own!!!! (and that itty bitty voice is telling me "oh!! No!!! it's going to be great when you go camping though!!) Uh, little voice - when is the last time I went camping????? I am doing something with it, even take it to the guild and say 'who wants it??"

And I am going to my guild meeting again. Since I started work, i have missed them all. Not a good thing. Here is to a super fantastic new year!!! May all our dreams come true!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2009-12-31T22:30:00.000-08:00

It's here - 2010.
Feel any different yet??

I have been spending some time making a list - just a note to self on what I want to do this year. As I was putting things on it, I was thinking I should go for a long list, then, I got to #30, and thought, hey, this is enough. For now anyway. I do not want to make a long list of ideas and dreams that I will not do. I want to make a 'real' list, for me, to actually do. Things that I honestly want to accomplish, to achieve, to do. #28 is 'eat veggies everyday'. Do-able?? Yes. But, I wrote it down because I realized since I've been working, veggies have not been a regular thing for me. That is crazy!!! I love my veggies - so I now have it as a priority!!

Yes, I have 'sew 20 min a day' on my list again. I have not been doing that, but I want to. It's a list of things for me to do, things I want. #10 is 'Find the job you LOVE'. And I will.

My new years eve was spent at home. Quiet. Nice. And I have great feelings about the New Year!! This year, well, it was a hard year. Just in alot of ways - and I am glad to see it end. Now, with this "new" year - it just feels good.

We are in a cold snap right now. And it's cold!!! I wear gloves in the car, almost the whole way home!!! That steering wheel stays cold for along time!!! And I have head cold, I guess. I am loosing my voice and that runny nose - some fun huh Bambi!!

Okay, it's the fireworks on TV!! Happy New Year my friends!!!

I did not go in....

2009-12-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

Yup, I stayed home
I phoned in, and when they asked if it was a sick day, I just said 'yes'.
Enough said.
And then hubby and I went to pick up our daughter from the city, where she has been house sitting for my neice over the Christmas break, and the roads were ICEY!! At least in town and part of the hwy.But we got her home safe and sound and on the way back the roads seemed to be alot better. We didn't see anyone in the ditch either, so that is always good.

I just wanted to share with you a blog that I like the idea of:
http://shannonschristmasfollies.blogspot.com/

Shannon, like me, has a hard time with the Christmas season. It seems to come to soon (like we don't know it's coming!!) and it just is not Norman Rockwell feeling we want, so it's not 'perfect'. And this year, for me anyway, I spent all my time working - and Christmas day, when you hang out and enjoy the day over snacks and sweets, well, my house didn't have ANY!!!
I didn't bake, neither did anyone else. I did buy nuts, but they were gone before Christmas day and were not replaced.........
So, I want to, like I wanted to last year, make the Christmas season something I think about more than in July, Sept, some in Oct and then November........ When you don't have the time to do what you would love to do!!!!! " Wouldn't that be great to have at Christmas time??? Well, it's to late now, I'll put it on a list for next year......"

I have bought myself a subscription to a new magazine: Christmas 365 by Create&Decorate. I bought the premier copy on Christmas eve, just to have something Christmassy to look at that I hadn't seen before. It has things to make, ways to display, and this one has an interview with Jim Shore in it. He makes the 'Heartcrafted' figurines. It will be on display until 1/12/2010. The web site for them is www.christmas365mag.com if your interested.
I figure it's a perfect way, better than me remembering on my own!!, to keep the idea of Christmas coming to me through the year. It's a 4 mag. subscrition. And, an add on the back of it, for beads and making earrings..... I have already printed off the how-to's!!! They are Christmas trees, and would be fun to wear during Dec. And if you make them out of clear beads, all through winter.......Today, with my 'day off' I think I will head into the lonely sewing room and get borders on my Christmas Lights quilt top. And make turkey a'la king for supper and just be home........ And, I am finding a new job. I am also applying at the nursery just out of town - uhm plant greenhouse would be a better way to say that!! And there is a new store coming into town and I keep feeling like I am going to be working there.... that is a great feeling because I felt this way before Costco hired me too!

So, here is to a fantastic Tuesday!!!

And I am being motivated to work on my favorite designer, Judy Martin, by joining a blog in her honour, where we can all get our Judy quilts made and show them off!!! Thank-you for this!!!!

Dec. 29

2009-12-29T09:56:00.000-08:00

I have to get ready to get to work. I didn't realize yesterday, but today putting my hours on the calander here at home - next week, I am working till 10 at night, and leaving here by 2:30 ish. Meaning, I will not see my kids. I leave before they get home from school, and am home at 11 at night.
Not happy. Not happy at all. During Christmas rush, okay, but not now. Not now. I am just a cog in the machine and - I am frustrated. Very frustrated. Every one there, who realizes how far I drive to get there, tells me I'm crazy!! They think their 15 minute comute is long!!
I actually have been enjoying the drive. I listen to audio books and it's nice. BUT, I do not like drivng at night, and now that it's January, real winter weather will be here soon - and I should not complain. Reality is, I need the job right now. I want to phone in sick today - I am just tired. Really tired. And part of me is going "NO!! Do not do it!!!!!" The other part, the evil part is egging me on.......... "Who's gonna care?? They won't even miss you. You are just a number" Well, it's true. Crap!

I am finding myself a place to be that pays me well, to do things I enjoy and work with people who matter to me and I matter to them. And lets me have time with my family - that has been missing too. I have not had a real meal with them since I started this job in Oct. When I am home on a day off, I am tired. Tired! I am so tired of being tired. It makes me emotional, frustrated, angry and I cry at the drop of a hat. Oh, how mature is that????

Like one day, I went in to work, and found myself early, and that was enought to make me cry. You can't start till your start time, so I wandered around the store for a few minutes, feeling - stupid, useless, just all those bad feelings. If I had been there on time, I would have just got busy working - but no, I had to be early. Went to the washroom and burst into tears. I could not stop crying!!! I walked out, didn't even try to hide the tears, how could I??? They wouldn't stop, and asked if I could just go home?? She said yes, so I left. And went to a green house and walked around it for an hour. No real plants, christmas stuff yes, and large trees but I finally, after the hour, didn't have tears coming down my face.

I am phoning in. I am spending the day with my family.

And I am looking for another job.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

Well, how is your evening going?? So why are you here?? kidding!! We didn't do the hot chocolate recipe tonight, one daughter wants it for breakfast instead, so that is what we will do. And we did our yearly tour around town to see the lights.... there were not very many. Some streets had a few but most homes were lightless. Dissapointing, but there was time when I didn't do lights either, so.......

But, I do have the picture I promised!! When I took it, I didn't think it worked. It did!! yeah!! Here is what my hubby did while I was at work the other day!!

Do you see Santa on the roof??? Well, he is up there and screwed into the roof to keep him there!! Horrors!!!! What happens in the spring???? but it's funny too!!! We have santa and his reindeer on the roof at our house!! lol!! And here's the snowmen, a little closer....

And what the house looks like from the road.....

Now it's not the best picture, but can you see the snowman in the window?? Behind the tree???

And my daughter made me open a present tonight. She was so excited and made me sit down to open it, and kept telling me it was fragile.... it is.... This is my hummingbird. And I love the woman who made it - she is one of the woman I see at the Butterdome that I love to go to at Christmas. Were I really know her from in the mall in Sherwood Park - last year, I bought alot of the icicles that she makes. All out of glass, and beautiful!! Oh, they just sparkle on the tree - and when I find them, I will put them up!! I am not impressed with myself tonight. I kept them safe all year, and now I don't know where they are!! I just saw them, not that long ago........ I am sure I didn't move them, but they are not were I thought they were...... but here is my beautiful little bird.

I love it.

So, Merry Christmas my friends. May tomorrow bring you great memories and lots of happy thoughts. I have a huge bird, potatoes, and the stuffing (stove top!!) plus things for the other things we have at Christmas, or any other holiday that comes around. And even a friend is coming over, so it will be a great day here!! All the best!!

Merry Christmas Eve Everyone!!!

2009-12-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

Well, hello!! Merry Christmas!!! The tree is up, the cat is playing with the ornamnets and batting one present around when he can. He also hides under it, on presents... cats!! Scrappy, when he wags his tail, hits the poor tree, so I hope all the ornaments survive this year!!

How do you like your tree??? One or two colours?? Star or angel on the top??? Garland??

Me, I like a full tree!! Glass ball ornaments in the back of the tree, to refect the lights, with handmande or bought ornaments up front. Memories. I don't - except for the glass ball ones - have things on the tree that are 'just because'. I like a tree full of memories - a fully decorated, almost too much - not gaudy though!! And yes, I have been know to move things around. Not anymore, the jokes and the ribbing got to me, so I have learned to leave it alone. And you know what, I do not enjoy this time of year like I used to. Changing subjects!!! quickly!!!

Are you ready for tomorrow?? I have a huge bird!!! I love the leftovers!!!!! I like to make things for the freezer from them, but I really should have re-thought this idea yesterday when I bought this thing!! My next day off is New Years Day - I had better get my organization skills in check here so I can make these freezer meals before and after work this year. I have a lasagne recipe that is sooooo gooood!!!! I am going to have a couple of them in there for sure!!!

But here is why I wanted to post today. I have found, a few years ago, a really good hot chocolate recipe that we use for tonight, when we go drive around and look at the lights around town. It is calorie free, at least for tonight. Tomorrow?? I am not so sure, but tonight, it's good to go!!
HOT CHOCOLAT NOG
4 cups commercial Egg Nog
4 cups chocolate milk
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 tbsp instant coffee granules
2 tsp vanilla
whipping cream or marshmallows

In large saucepan, combine egg nog, chocolate milk, cream and coffee granules. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until coffee granules are dissolved and mixture is heated through. DO NOT BOIL. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour into mugs!! Top with whipping cream and serve immedialtly!!! Enjoy!!
(serves 8)

I put this in a thermos and we drive around through the town. Uh, we do drink it!! We take our travel mugs!! I laughed when I read the first sentace. 'why would you put it in a thermos?? Why not drink it???' lol!!! And it's very easy to half the recipe - I don't, but you could.

Okay, I am off to wrap the couple presents I have left. I want to show you, later, what my hubby did with one of my yard ornaments this year!! so, once I get the picture, I will post and let you see what I came home to last week!!! And we have snow!!!!

I have been Sewing!!

2009-12-02T19:52:00.000-08:00

I have been working for a few hours on Bonnie Hunters "Christmas Lights" today. And, the top is put together!!! The center anyway, with borders picked out!!

So, what do you think of my version of this great project???

I like it - and I was happy to find some fabrics that will go with my quilt top for the borders.

Bonnie has a black as the first border - I have choosen the same green that the star blocks use. Then I thought of a gold fabric, then the last border being a red with gold through it. The green fabric also has gold in it. For the binding, I am going to use the rest of the black candy cane hearts I used in the red square blks, plus, since I won't have enough, I will use up some of my other blk candy cane fabric that I have and it will work out great!!

I think it will look alright. The green border is only 2" wide, I think I would like it 2 1/2" - but since I only have what the pattern asks for I am not sure I should mess around with the measurements!!

I like that all my fabrics have a touch of gold in them. The cream one is gold snowflakes!! And the red is gold threads... I think using the black for the binding will just pull it all together.

One thing that I am thinking of is doing a bias binding......... I have not done this before, cut a bias binding!! But, my quilt shop lady told me, and I have since read (gotta check this out you know) that bias binding works really well on quilts that are going to be used. Throws, and quilts; wall hangings don't need the movement that bias allows, so 'normal' binding is fine. I just might be learing something new with this project. AND, I am going to make sure to make the time to work on it!!

So, what do you think of my choice?? Yup, I think I like it!!! If you have different idea, let me know - please!!!

Okay, on to news about my job. I was put on the till the other day! After two months of putting the items into the cart and running for what ever is needed, I was put on the till - where, you can not leave till your breaks!!! That means, if you have to use the bathroom, hold it!!! And I, of course, felt like I had to cough the other day, and there is not a kleenex to be found!! Or a cough candy, or - there was nothing!!! lol!!! So, I am not sure how much I am going to like being 'trapped' at the till, when for the last two months, I had the freedom to move around!!!

I am woundering if I should have applied for the full time cashiers job when it was posted awhile ago!!!

Kidding!! It is just a new position and I will get used to it, just like I got used to packing the carts!!!

Today was a day off, and I spent it in my sewing room, sewing up a christmas project. Yes, I have been doing some Christmas shopping. I can not believe how many people around here had their lights up in November. I think without the snow, and how warm it's been - we have flies coming into our house!!!! It's annoying, and it's probably happening when we let the dogs out!! - that people are trying to get into the Christmas mood by using the only 'Chrismas'y' thing around - lighting up the night with cheerful light displays!! And blow up yard ornaments. My favorite is the snowmen!! I had mine blown up in the house one year!! He was by the window and you would see people looking and pointing!!!

I am a little behind in my 20 min a day sewing goal I have going on, but I am half way through Oct. thanks to todays working, and I am planning on being all caught up before the year ends.

Have a very nice day tomorrow, get some Christmas cheer going and I will make sure I keep you posted on the progress of this little quitl!! Is anyone doing Bonnie Hunter's new mystery?? I have printed off the steps so far, but I think it will go into my 'projects' binder for now. I have some past projects that I want to see done, and a couple of them are Christmas projects, so I should pick them to do first!!! Talk soon!

Well, let me tell you!!!

2009-11-30T13:12:00.000-08:00

It's a dark Monday here, I hear snow is in the forcast - have not seen it yet, but it's on it's way - and guess what I get to drive through tonight then - at 10, when it's dark!! YUCK!!! I won't be home till close to 11 - I start work at 5 this evening. Last week, I was done between 7 & 8 - great hours!! Tonight, I start my yucky hours - BUT - I am not complaining!! Today, because of my paycheck on Friday - I have started my 'moving on out' fund. And payed off some of my credit card plus put some on our line of credit.
When I started working, I figured, I would put my money towards my credit card and the line of it, but now, I have another priority to consider, so the line, only gets a little.......

Have we talked??? Are you kidding?!!?? We don't do that!!! So, it's where it was left the last post - and I am just doing what I am doing to start my life over. With or without the people I have in it now. I can not think of that - I am just going to keep on making my plans and move forward. I am listening to my CD's on the way to work - 'How to win Friends and Influence People" and "Think and Grow Rich". Each of these say, you have to have a dream, a goal and a passion. Right now, I am working on my goals, looking for my dream, and am praying I will get passion back. So - one point made to me by that voice of wisdom that talks to me while I drive - one habit I have is not finishing....... And that is a very bad habit to have created!!! So, one of my goals is to change it to finishing.
I have this habit in all I do!!! I only partly read a book - before I'm done I find something else to read that catches my eye!!
And my sewing projects!!!???!!! oh, common!!!!!!! Proof postive that I am not one to work out a project to the end - and that is a real problem. Take just a few minutes ago for example. Remember Bonnie Hunters mystery she had in the 'Quiltmaker" magazie??? Well, I thought, I have some time, lets work on the last step......... I couldn't find it!!!!!! And that is when I hit me square in the face. Girl, if you want to have a life full of fun and laughter, joy and exploration, you have got to get your **** together!!!!!

So, my goals???? Evey check - 25% is going to my new fund. It's not a fund I want to have to make, but I have to do it. I am done. I am so done. And I am outta here.

And, I am not taking this mess of projects with me. I will need things to warm me. Things for my walls. And I have alot of them 1/2 done. If I am serious about getting my life in order, creating a life I want to live, then I have to start sticking to my plans, creating my dreams and reaching my goals.

I also had a nice little 'you go girl' when I checked my lottery tickets today. I won $56!! Paid for my gas to get to work and that was a very nice surprise!!! It didn't have to come from my paycheck!! And that was alright by me!!

So, just to let you know, I have found my sewing room again!!! That feels good. Things on the home front haven't changed, but I have!! And this girl is going to keep moving forward, and I will be having fun while I learn and grow (rich!!!).

Have a great week!!!!

not good

2009-11-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

Hello. I went to the movies on Friday - New Moon, for my daughters 18th birthday. 18 is the legal age here in Alberta, my little girl is now an adult. Hmmmmm...

Not a good last few days. I had a great day on Thursday - I should not have come home. I came bearing surprises and treats - not big things, just little snacky type things, foods for lunch the next day, and.........

I think my life is going to change. What do I mean 'think', it has. My then still 17 yr old fell down the stairs - I jumped up to make sure she was okay, it souned like she really got hurt. Well, I got told where to go and basically how to get there. Guess that means she's okay - but being the mom I am, I waited a bit to go check on her again. What a bitch I am. Well, I found out on Thursday night, I am a horrible mother. Not from my daughter, from my drunk husband. That is aways fun to come to - but I guess that our marriage is over and we are done. He's keeping the girls and I can leave or he will.

I will go.

And now, a few days later, - you know what, it just doesn't matter anymore. 20 years we've been together, and now, I don't care anymore. Since I am such a horrible mother - I just want out. Yeah, I have kids who are in gangs (yeah right), never home (wrong again), I never know where they are and the friends they hang out with are all trouble (oops, try that I always know where they are and their friends are great). What a horrible mother I have been. My temper is what classifies me as such a terror. Yes, this is true. I do have a temper and when pushed, I do loose it sometimes. BUT - I have never hidden this fact. EVER. When I do something wrong, I am the first to admit it. What a bitch.

So, I am working on the how to's to leaving. We are not finacially able to have me up and go, and my thing is, where do I go??

It's funny to think about leaving you know. I have already been thinking what is coming with me. Weird things - the fish are mine. And what I don't care if I have or not. My books, some are coming with me - they are mine. Scatterd thoughts right now.
And how to support myself out there. My biggest thought is I do not want to be anywhere near here. I want to be long gone. So, this is my life right now. And no, I have not been creative in any real sense of the word, but I do have to clean up my sewing room. In boxes. This is so sur-real. Did I even spell that right???

That why I needed the laugh Myra. Thanks again. Oh, and I was already shopping for Christmas - I was in such a great place on Thursday................ how things can change.
sorry for this horrible post.

My Second Day off in Row!!

2009-11-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

I just updated my book reading list. Me, who used to read a book in a couple days, now hardly reads a full book at all! But, I have been, and it feels good!!!
I found this book in my librarys book sale, it's an older book, but I liked it. "The Cay" is an easy read, actually, I found out, it was a high school book for some kids to read!! Easy one for taking with me to read over luch or coffee breaks at work. It's a story about a boys experiance during the second world war, finding himself stranded on a very small island in the ocean when his boat had been sunk. He and a black man - and how he survived. I liked it.

The next book, one that a woman recommended as she went through the till - (I shouldn't work at Costco!!!!) - "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova. Wow. Powerful book. It is written from the persepective of a woman who has just found out she has Alzheimer's. And it is written very well, I laughed and felt for this woman. I just really enjoyed the book. My Aunt had Alzheimer's, but I was not around to see it's effects. No one I know personally has it, that I know of, but this sure put a good perspective on it for me to learn from.

I need to go sew now, to get my BOM done. I can actually go to the class - I don't work till hours later, so I have time to have fun and work that day!! Yeah!!!

And a fish update - they are doing well!! I am still so p,ease that these guys survived. I do not want this to happen again!! I love having an aquarium!!
Monday is my next day off - talk to you then!!!

I am still here.....

2009-10-27T11:26:00.001-07:00

Hello Again. I am still here, working all kinds of odd hours and not sewing or coming on the computer much....... I do miss visiting people's blogs....... And I have been busy.

Daughter had her wisdom teeth pulled out last Thursday. She is finally back to school today, feeling like she can move her mouth. I have to do this again with my other daughter....... not fun. My youngest has 5 teeth to be removed instead of the usual 4, so that might be a little harder to do. Dr. is going to give her a special X-ray that will help him figure out where the 5th tooth is, so that will cut down on the searching time..... yuck!!! I will probably book her appointment in a couple months, in the new year. Can you believe it's that close already??!! ahhhhh!!!

And, something that just thrilled my heart - my goldfish, 5 of them, survived the freezing we had a couple weeks ago!!! Rain barrels were frozen, and I thought it was for 2 weeks, still think it was, but hubby says only a week.... uh, uh, it was for longer than that - anyways, the air warmed up, they started to melt and I wanted them empy of the water and ice before they could freeze again and damage the taps. Hubby would not be very happy to have to fix them for me, so I just wanted them empty and ready to go for next year. I was looking in the bottom of the barrel and saw my gold fish.... told my daughter I found one, thinking it was dead, I was not happy about it. She asked if it was dead, so I told her yes, but it sure looked pretty, then as I was looking at it, I saw the upper fin move oh so slightly. I was shocked!!! there is no current in a rain barrel, it should not have moved!!! I yelled, it's alive!!!! and we got him out!!! In the next couple days, we got 5 of them, so they are swimming happily in my aquarium, and I am loving it!!! So, that is my happy thought for today. And saying 'hi' to you.

Okay, I have to go get dressed and ready for my 3 - 9:30 shift........ At least it's not 10:30 or later, which I hate!! Well, don't really like anyway....... it's the not getting home till after 11 that I really don't like....... But I am not complaining. Hubby just got back from working a 24 hr shift at his job........ that is not fun at all!!

Take care!!! Have a Happy Halloween!!!!

Hello

2009-10-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

I am just taking a second to let everyone know I am alive!! Honest!! But, I have spent the last week with a cough, a sore throat, which by Sunday took my voice!! Monday, Canada's Thanksgiving - had me on the couch, while hubby and daughter made dinner!!! First time in YEARS, that I have not made the Thanksgiving Dinner..... it was nice!!

So, I have phoned work 3 time to let them know I wouldn't be there. I have never phoned in sick before to any job......... And since I am still so new, I hope they won't hold it against me.........

But, I am back tomorrow - anitbiotics really do wounders. I am not 100%, but I do feel more alive and the best thing, I can keep my eyes open for more than a couple minutes!!! And I have not fallen asleep unexpectedly for a couple days now, so I am on the mend.

I do miss visiting blogs - so I am going to have to work this into my life - I hope I have found you well and HEALTHY!!!! Please stay that way. I have done alot of watching TV that talks about how to keep your immune system strong, and I will be doing the garlic, beta-carotine, sardines (what??!!? Yup, I guess sardines are good to keep your immunity up. could it be the fishy smell that keeps the germs away?? lol!!) and anything else that will keep me up and running!! I got real cranky while I was not feeling well, so I think everyone wants me to stay healthy!! :-)

Bye for now!!

I'm Okay!!!

2009-10-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

I just thought I should come on and say 'hi', considering it's been a couple weeks since I have been on here.
I have a job - I am working at Costco for 8 hrs a day, 5 days a week right now, and the hours are always different. So, I am not a normal schedual - and am gone from home over 11- hrs a day, so it's taking up alot of my time.
And this is before the snow comes!! Which should be here by Wednesday, not much, but it's a start (it had better not be much!!!!) And that will make my 40 min drive a bit longer.
Do I like it??? Yes. So far, so good. Do I like bringing in buggies?? Uh.... no, not really, but I do like the being outside.... so I don't hate it. I do not like it in the wind though, especially when it's chilly - and I hear that when the snow is here, it's not fun then either, but hey, it's got to be done, so, I go do it. (if you shop at stores that use buggies, would you mind bringing in one to use......?? lol!!) I am glad to be working again.

I had my youngest daughter tell me tonight, me and her dad that she doesn't like us. Hasn't for quite awhile, and .............. well, I know she is not kidding. this has really hurt. It was not a shock, but everytime my kids tell me something like this, how awful I am as a mom, how much I have done wrong, I take it to heart and it hurts. I know it's the age - she's 15. BUT, and it's a huge BUT, I don't know how to talk to her - no matter what I say, she tells me how wrong I am, looks at me with raised eyebrows and makes me feel so not needed or wanted.

So, I am enjoying my job. the time away. And , well, this is my life right now. I am back to working, have not been in my crafts room, doing anything creative, I bought the new Jan Arden CD, love Jan Arden!! It's a soft, quiet CD, and I have only listened to it once, on the way home last night!! But I like it. And I am trying to climb into the "Lovely Bones" book. It's a book I have had on my 'to read' list for years - now that it's a movie, I have to read it!!!! I told my girlfreind years ago, when she asked me what was good while I was working at the library, I told her if I had the time to read, this (the lovely bones book) was what I would read if I had the time. Well, she took it, read it, and told me I would like it....... that was a very long time ago!! So, now I am trying to read it, but I have not gotten very far!! I should take it to work and read it over my breaks!!

You know what, I am going to go. Thanks for emailing me to see how I was. ((hugs)) It was very nice to recieve. I will try to be more consistant with keeping up with the blogs and writing about what is going on - and pictures!!! I recieved the bracelt and earring set from the 'Incredible Woman' blog I found. And I was going to have a pic to show you, but my camera is not where I thought it was, so I will make sure to get a pic on next time.
Stay warm where you are - and keep smiling!!! Sew a stich or two for me, I have not been sewing at all this past week. Have the best week ever. I am sure going to try my best!!
Bye for now!!!

Design Wall Monday!!

2009-09-14T11:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am still working on the border of the Goose quilt. Here is a pic of it laying on my bed while I was trying to get measurements. I did not know the cat was in the house, and when I came back to measure, look what I found!!

I had to take a picture! I have tried to keep the dogs (and their fur!!) out of my room, and I have been so careful to keep them away from my stuff!! lol!! yeah, that worked out well didn't it!! I mean, it was only on my bed a few minutes when he came and streched himself out on it...

So, I do have the red border on, and one of the side pieced borders - and the rest ready to be put on. The one I have not figured out yet, is the last 5" border and binding.... but I will. this one is almost a done top!!

This weeks project is to put borders on my Dissappearing 9 Patch.

And this is one of the quilts I found in one of the books I was looking through the other night. I like it. And I found myself starting to look for browns (something I don't really have alot of, but it is becoming more common!!). So, I have a tiny collection.

Then I went to my guild meeting.

One of the members has given a challenge to the group. A one-coloured quilt. NO other colour allowed. Only your choosen colour. And it is to be done completly by June - our year end party meeting. I wounderd what I would do?? My guild blks are already being done in one colour (blue) but it has alot of other colours throught out it, so that is out. Hmmmm, then it hits me!! Helllllooooo!!! Do the square quilt!! why not!?!? Not in the browns (some of my fabrics already have other colours in them), but in Blues!!! Do I have enough of a variety??? I had won a fun bingo game a couple years ago, and I got alot of FQ's as the prize!! Which counts for most of my stash!! And so I pulled out my plastic containers of my FQ's (trying to organize them!! good luck with that!! lol!!) and I have blues!! Dark blues, light blues, medium blues and blues in between!!! Whoooo Hoooo!!! I am in the challage!! And I will do it while working on the projects I want done!!! This 'new' quilt will be sewn as leader/enders while I work on my regular projects!!! Oh yeah!!! I rock!!!!! AND, I just might throw in the brown one while I'm at it - two for the time of one, or should I say, three, considering they will be done between the 'real' quilts!!!!

So, this is my weeks design wall plan. Goose will be done!!! D9P will have a border, and my challenge quilt will be worked on!

Excellant!!! (and once I learn to make beans from scratch - tried a recipe yesterday, and the beans are a little 'stiff'!! lol!! I will have this domestic stuff licked!! Rule #1, don't rush the soaking time!!) So, I will be trying my recipe again, and my family will be able to eat while I work on my quilting goals so my design wall will have something new to show next week!!!!

bye!!