Geema's Wonderings

Flat Tires & Courage Found

2012-02-07T09:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I went help my daughter with a science lesson. which was quite a bit of fun for me and nerve racking for her! On the way home, I got a flat tire. That is no problem since changing a flat was one thing my father insisted I know at an early age. I pulled over, got the spare, jack, tire iron, and instructions out. BUT someone had removed the jack handle which was a necessary piece of equipment and replaced it with a ratchet and a very big screw driver. Neither of which I understood. So I called DH for advice. Since we have only 1 vehicle at this time (he 'fixed' my truck and it won't run now), he got the grandchildren and the runaway Lorenzo in the camper and came. Christopher, DGS, followed his directions and changed the tire with those replacement items. He did it very quickly and very nicely. Then we drove the car home and went to bowling in the camper. Life is such an adventure!
Since Sunday, I have been trying to get time to put on my BIG GIRL PANTIES (an inside joke between my girls and I) and start quilting Saint Stars 2. It was the same with Saint Stars 1...the starting was the hardest part. Something my dear husband said to a friend of ours yesterday hit home..."our generation has a limited number of days to be on this earth and that we had better make good use of each and every day." Recently there have been quite a few deaths in our circle of friends and family which got him to thinking about how we put things off for later.
Well, this morning, I was successful with the putting on of the panties and started quilting that quilt. It's not so bad really!
Lator Gators, I am off to quilt some more. Keep making Lemonade from Life's Lemons.

Design Wall February 6, 2012

2012-02-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Last night, DH and I went to the Tailgate party at the casino where we each won $250 (retreat funds) and ate a great supper of chicken and red beans & rice. We had a great time watching people, commercials, and at times the game.

I am trying out eyes for Orange Tom Cat. He was January's UFO #5 but instead I did UFO #12 Twisted Sister. I think this is the face I am going with. He stayed a UFO for so long b/c of this face, the bottom mouse/hole, and ball on top.

Yesterday, I started working on the Shop Hop Blocks from the August 2011 Hop. The first block was a big disappointment b/c of a lack of fabric. The shop did not put their name on the block so I have no idea where to complain. (Although I have narrowed it to 3 shops all hours away from my home.) I worked on a second block and it came out beautifully.
This afternoon at 1pm, I am going help DD#2 with a science lesson for her 4th graders. Hands-on Science is a big step for her since she still wants her little ducks swimming in straight uniform lines in assigned ponds. 4th grade ducks fly everywhere and sometimes refuse to swim!

Nosy Lorenzo

Can you see where all this is going? Yep, anything to not put on my BIG GIRL PANTIES and start quilting Saint Stars 2! Even Lorenzo knows and is trying to help me avoid quilting. He stands on the wrist rest when Glenda's blog is on the screen especially when it features DiNozzo, his idol, and trys to type in dog code hoping one day they will get into trouble together. Silly puppy, spoiled puppy! Lator Gators! Keep making Lemonade from Life's Lemons!

Stash Report Sunday February 5, 2012

2012-02-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

Fabric Added this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in February: 0 yards
Fabric Added this Year: 1 yards
Fabric Used this week: 0.125 yards
Fabric Used in February: 0.125 yards
Fabric Used this Year: 13.75 yards
Stash Enhanced/Reduced: 12.75 yards

My favorite sewing machine is back from the doctor. I set him up and made a Box Square, a 1930s block that I did in hand-dyes. To me, it looks like folded ribbons. I think I will do this block as leaders and enders in scraps. Did you know that it cost almost the same to send a stuffed envelop to Ireland as it does a small box? So I will be sending lagniappe ( Cajun for a bit extra) as padding.

The center of Saint Stars 2 has been pin basted and spray basted ready for quilting on the big BabyLock. I think I will begin tackling that Sunday during football game. Since the Saints aren't playing, all I really want to see are the commericals! All I need now is someone to hold my hand giving me courage to start. Any takers? I can do this all I have to do is start, Right? I can, I can, I can! Taking deep breathe while putting on BIG GIRL PANTIES!
DD#1 and I are planning a Mardi Gras retreat at her house to break in her new Bailey 17" and Studio which is already too small! It will be a great place to hide from all the silliness that goes on at Mardi Gras around Lewisburg. It will give me a chance to sew and use the Go to cut fabric for the two graduation quilts I have to do by May; get ready for Sue Nickels' class, and make kits for March trip and April retreat. 5 wonderful days!

Each morning this week, I have been pulling fabric from the bins in the closet and putting them on acid-free boards. Then I add them to my shelves. Only 5 more bins to go and I will be finished and have organized shelves. Already I have realize that I don't need to buy any more browns, oranges, or tans and from the bins in the closet, red & white or red & black and panels. LOL
Lator, Gators! Keep making Lemonade from Life's Lemons!

8 done

2012-02-01T13:02:00.000-08:00

Twisted Spools

Completed task 1 - 8 twisted spools blocks for KS Lotto in February. They were very easy to do but look hard. Just my kind of block. LOL I hope to win this one b/c I know the perfect person to gift it to.
Judy L. picked UFO#1 and the one UFO that I must complete in a timely manner is UFO#1-Saint Stars 2. So I think Fate is speaking to me. Tomorrow I start the quilting!
Called the sewing machine doctor today to check up on my oldie but goodie Ellgante. The man couldn't find it anywhere. I am to call back tomorrow after 9am to talk to the repair tech. I need that machine back before the Sue Nickels class.
Just heard that my grandson is out in the field. Please send prayers up for him to return sound and safe.
Lator Gators! Keep making Lemonade out of Life's Lemons.

Design Wall 1-30-12

2012-01-30T08:39:00.000-08:00

Twisted Spools and Box Quilt instructions

purse pieces ready to put together

looks more like a dog than cat

This week I have three projects to get done. The first is 8 "Twisted Spool" blocks for the KS lotto. Seems lately I have been done alot of 'twisted' projects. LOL The second is a more sedate purse than my orange Maxine version. The third is the "Box Quilt" block for my swap partner, Agnes in Ireland. Then if time permits start quilting Saint Stars 2 and/or applique Orange Tom Cat's eyes, nose, mouth, and friend.
Well, off to bring DH to heart doctor. Hopefully he will be able to exercise and bowl b/c he is feening to do both.
Lator, Gators! Keep making Lemonade out of Life's Lemons.

Stash Report Sunday January 29, 2012

2012-01-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Fabric Added this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in January: 0 yards
Fabric Added this Year: 0 yards
Fabric Used this week: 6.625 yards
Fabric Used in January: 13.625 yards
Fabric Used this Year: 13.625 yards
Stash Enhanced/Reduced: 13.625 yards
This week DH came home with 2 air bead pillows which are bigger than travel pillows but smaller than normal pillows so I made 2 pillowcases. I finished binding a quilt for my little sister to use for cuddling grandchildren or just for sitting quietly. It was 'Twisted Sisters' by Ami Simms. Easy to make and pretty as heck! I also finished swap blocks for the January 'Block Swap' and January & February 'Bee Swap". It was a good week.
Now I am working on UFO #5 Orange Tom Cat. He needs eyes, nose, and a mouth not to mention a friend in the corner and a ball of yarn, all the A word which is why he is an UFO! LOL
The good news is that I got a new printer so I can print eyes on fabric and use them with accents via Sharpies, not to mention the labels I need.All quilts should be labeled for lots of reasons.
Well, off to do what I do - working on Swap block for February and Lotto blocks. Avoiding quilting Soccer Beauty and Saint Stars 2.
Lator Gators! Keep making Lemonade out of Life's Lemons!

UFO #5 - Cat Face

2012-01-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

Time to tackle UFO #5. My Orange Tom Cat needs a face. Size and Placement questions have kept me from going forward with this project but it is time!

Second Finish

2012-01-27T08:53:00.000-08:00

Twisted Sister

...of 2012 for my 'little' sister made by me, her "twisted sister", and quilted by her godchild, DD#1 with a special message. Now she can use it to cuddle with her grandsons or her granddaughter. The back is browns with pink for Sophia and the front is in teals,creams, and browns for the 2 boys.
All I have left to do is create my label which entails me having to buy a new printer. Ugh!!! Mine decided to not print in color even with a new color thingy.
I signed up for a class with Sue Nickels entitled Machine Quilting for Today's Quilts on Monday, February 27. I also signed up for a bargello class in Krotz Springs but don't remember the date. Busy Busy Busy making more UFOs.
Well, I am off to make swap blocks.
Lator, Gators! Keep making Lemonade from Life's Lemons!

Stash Report Sunday January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T19:06:00.000-08:00

Fabric Added this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in January: 0 yards
Fabric Added YTD: 0 yards
Fabric Used this week: 5 yards (DD#1 came and raided my stash with DH's blessings I truly believe it was more like 7 or 8 since I saw yardage being slipped in.LOL)
Fabric Used in January: 7 yards
Fabric Used YTD: 7yards
Stash Enhancement/Reduction: 7 yards
Projects finished YTD: 1
UFOs finished YTD: 1/2 (all Twisted sister needs is a labe lto be counted as finished)

Life is still throwing lemons at me but I am finding more than enough sweetener to make great Lemonade.
We spent the weekend in Lake Charles bowling. I say 'we' b/c DH bowled harder than I did even though he didn't pick up a ball. Saturday, my scores were so poor that I wanted to give up but DH took the opportunity to teach me a sweet new style which helped my scores. Today, I made my average which was sweet, sweet.
The oozing is continuing but that is suppose to be good and none are hurting like they did early in the week. Now they are itching! That also is a sign of healing, I hope.
Lator Gators! Squeeze life's lemons and make great Lemonade.

Second Finish ALMOST DONE!

2012-01-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

I guess being confined to bed or the sofa is productive. I have been working on my Twisted Sister quilt that I am giving to my sweet sister who thinks I am the twisted one...I think she is! No, just joking. I will show pictures as soon as it is finished and labeled.
She is ill but keeps on working to help her 3 adult children and to me all but 1 should be paying their own way.

Still hurting and now I am oozing which is not pleasant. Tonight is one of my guild meeting and I will be there. It is DD#1's first meeting as Program Chair.
Lator Gators! Keep making lemonade from life's lemons.

More Lemons

2012-01-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

...so I am trying to squeeze them and make a lemon pie with a side of lemonade. After all the hidden stress in December & January, my body decided to attack me with so much pain that I took myself to the doctor which immediately shocked him and my family. Protesting all the way, I go to his office twice a year for blood work.

He gave me meds and told me to get lots of bed rest and drink lots of water. Not easy to rest in bed if you are always jumping up to go to bathroom. LMAO and PPMAO
So in-between fever bouts and damp hot compresses, I am trying to machine sew binding to my sister's quilt. Then later I will be able to follow doctor's orders somewhat by sitting on couch and sew the binding.
Only problem is my darling husband can't cook so I am trying to find food that is easy to fix. He tried to feed me chicken broth from a can undiluted. After 15 years you would think that he knew that I don't touch chicken broth or soup. Now he's trying to make vegetable beef soup which will be interesting since he didn't check to see if we had vegetables. Poor man he is trying! At 3pm, I finally hobbled to the kitchen and opened a can of carrots.
DD#1 is now program chair for our guild. She has convinced me to do 2 short programs this year on labels starting from making own printable fabric to using Word to make the label with pictures of the quilt. What I wanted to do was a catheral window demo-a bit harder to prepare for but fun.
Lator Gators! Keep squeezing life lemons and make pie or lemonade.

Stash Report 1/15/12 #2

2012-01-15T08:41:00.000-08:00

Fabric Added this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in January: 0 yards
Fabric Added YTD: 0 yards
Fabric Used this week: 2 yards + fusible fleece & fusible interfacing
Fabric Used in January: 2 yards
Fabric Used YTD: 2 yards
Stash Enhancement/Reduction: 2 yards
Projects finished YTD: 1
UFOs finished YTD: 0
Even with all the health problems going on in the house this past week, I actually got some sewing done and made a fantastic iPad/Purse. I love it. DD#1 made me an iPad carrier for Christmas that I adore. Carrying two bags to doctor visits just isn't my style so I made a mini messenger bag to hold iPad and everything else I carry. My Christmas present still holds my iPad most of the time since I don't bring it everywhere. This way I can slip it into my "purse" as needed and everything fits!

w/o quilting

DD#1 finished quilting Twisted Sister for me and I am putting on the binding today so that it will be finished by Thursday to show at our guild meeting. (Big Use next week!) DD#1 put in a secret message but can't spell ~~freind~~ friend which is ok b/c my sister knows I can't even spell ~~teh~~ the!
While at DD#1, she informed me that she wasn't going to bring me my Phaff quilting system until after she has her Bailey completely set up in her new studio. It is going to take at least a month or so before she gets the building, electricity, and inside like she wants. During that time, DD#1 wants to quilt tops so I am not fussing about that although I was looking forward to using the machine now that she has all the bugs worked out. Actually it is a good thing since I haven't cleared its home spot yet.
Well, time to get busy.
Lator Tigers! Keep making lemonade from life's lemons!

First Finish of 2012

2012-01-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

I finally finished all my embroidery work and could sew. I wasn't quite ready to tackle quilting Saint Stars 2 yet b/c I didn't have the time to just sit and quilt. That project will take lots of concentration.

Front

I needed a new purse...small enough for use (I dislike large purses) with lots of pockets, but large enough to hold my iPad, since I have taken to bringing it everywhere with me so I can read when I get bored! So I pulled a pattern from my stash and cut it out.

back

Yesterday, I sewed and finished that purse with little bursts of sewing between trips to trainer at 8:30 am; Baton Rouge at 11:30 am; and homework at 4pm.
The front and back have my favorite Maxine sayings on them. It is a very bright orange and Maxine says it all. There is a total of 4 extra pockets to hold my stuff. I LOVE IT! So much so that I am already planning another one for myself and one for my DD#1.
Lator Gators! Keep squeezing life's lemons to make lemonade!

Design Wall 1/9/12

2012-01-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

So far so good!
DH is recovering really quickly without much pain. I am back to my exercise and have now lost a total of 9 pounds (5 in the last 2 weeks). I got to work in my studio for a little bit yesterday. I didn't accomplish as much as I wanted to do but with the added housekeeping, cooking, and nursing duties that is to be expected.
DH is a night owl and so is DGD#1 but I am a morning person. DH has kept me up until 3am every day since Tuesday last week. I get up between 6 & 7 every morning and don't go back to bed until time to sleep for night. DH on the other hand sleeps till noon and then cat naps all day so by midnight he is raring to go. This was ok when he could drive and move by himself but now I can't be out of his sight or he calls for me if he isn't sleeping.
I went to the trainer today and he worked me until I sweated buckshot. He said that it would help get my mind and body back on the same track by releasing tension and stress. My problems are speed up by stress and right now they are flaring up strong. I know it will all get better but Honestly, I am exhausted.

On my design wall are Saints 2 and my iPad purse with Maxine. I hope to get the purse done today and get started on the quilting of SS2.
Well, everyone here is sleeping but Lorenzo, Lilly, Ama, and myself. If Lorenzo and Lilly could help do dishes, pick up, sweep, or mop, it would be wonderful b/c it has to be done before DH gets up or he will try.
Lator Tigers! Keep making lemonade from life's lemons.

Stash Report Sunday (1/1 - 1/8)

2012-01-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

Added this week: 0 yards
Added in January: 0 yards
Added in 2012: 0 yards
Used this week: 0 yards
Used in January: 0 yards
Used in 2012: 0 yards
Stash Enhancement/Reduction: 0 yards
I had great hopes for last week. Each day was planned out with embroidery projects being finished so that I could work on piecing. Then on Tuesday, DH had an attack and we have spent the entire week in the hospital. Now we are in recovery with a pacemaker. I am not complaining except that my sewing time will be cut short by all this.
But I have tentative plans set for this week: Today- finish embroidery projects and kit take-along projectMonday-sew on iPad purses; Tuesday-work on special gifts; Wednesday-work on quilting Saints Stars 2; Thursday-more quilting of Saint Stars 2; Friday-drive to BR area for DGS#7's basketball game; Saturday-quilt on Saint Stars.

Well, Lorenzo has decided that I am typing too slow and has started helping. He hasn't let me sit alone since we got home last night. Last night I had to eat & watch the Saints win with him in my lap & this morning breakfast, typing , & sewing time. He missed me!

Lator Tigers! Keep making lemonade out of life's lemons.

Honey Pot Found

2012-01-07T16:58:00.000-08:00

my honey pot

I finally found enough sugar to make good lemonade. Actually it was my almost lost Honey Pot that found me!
DH came out of surgery great with a pacemaker. We are home and I have chicken cooking in oven and the Saints are on the television. So my life is STRESS FREE for the moment!

There are plenty of lemons being thrown at me but as long as my Honey Pot of a DH smiles and begs for butterfly kisses, I'll have plenty of sweetness to make lemonade.
Corney but true!
Lator Tigers! May you find plenty of sweetness to make lemonade, lemon bars, lemon pie, etc from life's lemons.

Energized Husband

2012-01-07T07:19:00.001-08:00

I am finding the hidden sugar and making lemonade with the help of great doctors and nurses. DH is doing well. I am ready to go home and fondle fabric. DH has been very energized since the surgery. The next thrr weeks will be filled with keeping up with him and keeping him from doing what he should not do. Lator Tigers!

More Lemons and More to Follow!

2012-01-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

DH and I spent from 11:20am to 4:55 pm in the doctors office today. It was decided that tomorrow a pacemaker will be put in place to help his heart beat normally. Hopefully this will solve the problem. Good news (sugar) is that it was not a heart attack, stroke, or blockage. Bad news (lemons) is that DH will be unable to bowl or exercise until end of January or February. What am I going to do with a hurting inactive DH.

They are doing the surgery this Friday morning early and we will be at the hospital until Saturday evening. Lemons all around. Well, at least my honey pot will be fixed hopefully and there will be no more episodes like the last two where his heart slowed almost to stop.
I know that it will be alright b/c if God were ready for him, then he would not have survived Tuesday. Hopefully, I will have quiet time w/o others around to collect my feelings and start finding the sugar that is hidden among the lemons. I can tell you that sour lemonade isn't too bad b/c it makes you appreciate the sweetness.
I am off to bed...4am comes early.
Lator Tigers.

Bad Over-weighing Good

2012-01-05T08:25:00.000-08:00

This week has been rough! Full of lemons and I am having trouble finding the sugar to make lemonade.

Monday, I had a verbal fight with my trainer over minor things like his lateness etc. I wasn't feeling well and everything set me off. He just got an earful that really wasn't that important.

Tuesday, we went pay taxes, got something to eat and then went to gym for DH appointment with his trainer. I still wasn't feeling well so I went sit in car comfortably. About 20 minutes later an ambulance shows up and I get a call, DH had passed out and was being brought to hospital.We spent Tuesday night in the hospital being woken up every 2 hours. Don't go to the hospital to rest...sick people don't get to rest.

Wednesday we spent the day in the hospital. DH has had these spells before but by the time the doctors get to him nothing shows as wrong just like this time. But thanks to the quick thinking of the people at the gym the EMT's were there within 5 minutes of his episode so there was evidence of a heart irregularity - the only sign! Doctors think that his heart starts pumping too slow for undetermined reasons.

Then we went at 7pm to Walmart to get meds for the night. There my bladder decided to release with no warning so DH had to go in to get his meds himself. While inside, he lost his wallet with everything in it as he paid for the meds in the front of the store. They found it sans the cash in the back of the store.

Today we go at 11am for a chemical stress test to see if there is blockage or the visa visa thing. Personally, I think that it is the visa visa thing brought on by long term use of a certain medication prescribed by the quack who thinks that 500 is borderline diabetic. They changed the medication thankfully. So today we find out if he has surgery, gets a pace maker, or if just changing the medication will be enough.

Waiting not so patiently for mom and dad!

Like I said in the beginning- lots of lemons. I know lots of good (sugar) has happen: 1) quickness of first responders; 2) catching of problem; 3) not life threatening; 4) finding of wallet; 5) DGD#1 here to take care of our children and grandchildren 2 and 4 legged. Yet it is not enough to make a good lemonade --still too sour.
Well, I am off to get dressed and ready for another day of stress. I am praying for sugar - lots of sugar.
Lator Tigers!

First Design Wall of 2012

2012-01-02T05:46:00.000-08:00

Soccer Beauty aka DJ's Graduation Quilt

Saint Stars center

My design walls have the usual on them: Saint Stars 2 and Soccer Beauty waiting for me to bite the bullet and start quilting. Also Judy L. UFO #5 -O Tom CAT.

I love Maxine!

Today's plans are to spray adhesive the backs to both quilts. Then I will finish Christmas projects for oldest daughter and her family. Also I will iron on fusible fleece and stabilizer to the parts of the iPad carrier I am making. The colors are bright...very bright. It started as a gift for DD#1 but it is almost too bright for her. I may have to keep it and make her a more subdued one. LOL Besides Maxine does not fit her but the suited woman does. We shall see!
I am off to exercise. Another thing I have to do today is convince my DH and DGD#1 that we did NOT hire a maid over the holidays. I knew cleaning up before Christmas was a mistake.
Lator Tigers! May 2012 be an exciting year of mistakes, learning, and lots of projects completed.

Stash Report 1 Jan. 1, 2011

2012-01-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

A new year with a clean slate! I have two goals this year. The first is to finish 1 UFO per month from my UFO list. The second is to only buy 1 yard for every 3 used. Notice I did not say that 2012 would be a NO BUY year but that I would used 3 times what I buy. These are very ambitious goals for me especially the used to added ratio. I CAN DO it starting today.
Report:
Added this week: 0 yards
Added in January: 0 yards
Added in 2012: 0 yards (I want these 3 to stay the same for a while)

Used this week: 0 yards
Used in January: 0 yards
Used in 2012: 0 yards (I will start working on changing this # today.)

What I got to do to get breakfast?

This morning Lorenzo decided wake me up to give him breakfast at 7am. DGD#1 and DH are still asleep since at 1:30am we were watching the fools in New York and hearing fireworks. Cabbage, black-eyed peas, & turkey sausage are dinner today to be consumed watching the Saints.
I am off to finish late Christmas gifts, secret projects, and organize my strip pile.
Lator Gators! May 2012 bring you joy and happiness.

Stash report 52 (December 31, 2011

2012-01-01T06:49:00.000-08:00

Added this week: 0 yards (We went to BQ but I only bought thread and spray adhesive.)
Added in December: 15 yards
Added in 2011:135.065 yards
Used this week: 0 yards (I worked on embroidery instead.)
Used in December: 9.25 yards
Used in 2011: 172.56 yards
Stash Reduced: 38.495 yards
Challenge for last quarter of 2011: 45.125 yards (over 1/3)

Last Friday of 2011

2011-12-30T09:33:00.000-08:00

All embroidery DONE!

This morning I have been busy in my sewing studio while waiting for DH to get out of bed (still hasn't happened). First, I finished the embroidery for Saints 2. Next step is to start quilting the center.

Stolen from Twilight blog

Unable to keep still while the machine did its thing and not having set up a second machine to replace the broken Ellangeo, I cut tumblers for Nu's Tumbler Graduation Quilt. (That young man has had lots of tumbles in his 18 years! His family dissolved and neither parent had room for this young man. He spent 5 years being shuffled until he hit his 16 b-day. Then those 'adults' responsible for him, put him out, told him to quit school, find a job and place to stay for himself. This is when my DD#4 took him in, kept him in school, and gave him a family that loves him - us! He is graduating from high school in May with honors and is planning to go into the arm services. He tumbled really well so the tumbler quilt with all its different mixed up colors seems so right for him.)

When I ran out of ironed scraps, I started looking for 8" scraps in my scrap bin. I figured while I was looking, I just as soon cut and place the scraps into the 2 1/2, 2, 1 1/2 , and 1" bins. Come to find out most were already those sizes and I just need to measure, cut straight, and save in correct bin.
I have decided that on Wednesday of next week a trip to BR is necessary to bring the machine to be repaired. Hopefully, it can be b/c I just adore that machine and can't afford another like it.
I am off to press, cut, and save scraps. Why? I don't know since I am not a fan of scrappy quilts. Well, 2012 is a new year and if you practice something for 6 months it becomes part of your make-up, so I will be practicing until June making scrappy quilts.
Well, lator Tigers! May your 2012 begin wonderfully.

She DID IT!

2011-12-29T20:20:00.000-08:00

Samantha's New Do!

DGD#2 really did it! She and I have kept our hair long for as long as I can remember. We both cut and donated our hair to honor my brother when he died about 4 years ago. He also was growing his hair to donate that summer but tragedy struck first.
Wow! She looks so different.
Lator Tigers!

Design Wall Progress

2011-12-27T06:32:00.000-08:00

Top of Saints 2

Well, I didn't clean yesterday. I got a case of chills and low fever. DH told me it was because I am allergic to cleaning and he may be right! I spent most of the day sleeping and shaking. Finally, I got warm and did the top half of the embroidery on Saints 2 so all was not lost. Then read on iPad while watching Saints skunk Alanta. Go Saints!

I don't plan on cleaning today except for the usual sweeping, mopping, dusting, clothes washing, and watching Spirit or her watching me.

Bottom half of embroidery

DD#3 is picking me up to go exercise more of the holiday food off. Then when I get back, Spirit and I have a lunch date with DD#1 at BQ. After that, I plan on doing the second half of the embroidery on Saints 2. A second machine needs to be set up so I can finish the surprise for DD#1 and SIL#only. Cleaning will have to wait until Wednesday or Thursday to be started.
Well, off to exercise.
Lator Tigers! May the rest of 2011 be STRESS FREE!

Last Design Wall of 2011

2011-12-26T06:37:00.000-08:00

Saints Stars 2

Saint Stars 1

On my last design wall of 2011 is my Saints Stars 2. This week, my goal is to add the embroidery shown in Saints Stars 1 and quilting.
I am also working on a secret project for DD#1 and DSIL#1. I can't finish those until the embroidery is finished since my Ellegante is still sitting broken under my sewing table. That will have to be tended to this week, I hope.
This week I also plan on cleaning the den. It has become our junk room since we don't use it much. But the rains have started and we need the covered access to the house it offers.
Well, I am off with DD#3 to exercise the food from last week off.
Lator Tigers! May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Happy New Years. May 2012 be better than 2011 if possible.

Christmas Past

2011-12-25T08:10:00.000-08:00

As I read blogs this morning, I came upon one that was very melancholy. She talked about childhood experiences at Christmas time and how she wanted to give her children memories like she had but didn't know how. That blog and the rain on Christmas made me sad and I started to cry b/c I too miss family that have gone to meet God.
I started remembering Christmas at my mom & dad's. Dad would play Scrooge and Bah Humbugged all the preparations. On Christmas eve he would retire to his room locking the door, and not be seen until the 26th. He refused to participate in the gift giving and only grandchildren could visit in private.
Yet, there would always be presents under the tree that seemed to appear by magic and had no giver name just the receiver. If someone unexpected came, there would be a gift under that tree for that person even if they arrived 5 minutes before we opened gifts but no on saw dad placing it.
After my dad died, an empty Scrooge box was placed under the tree in his memory. When the time for gift opening came it was filled with handmade gifts for everyone and extras again as if by magic.
The second memory I cherish is that of my younger brother putting on his Santa hat and Ho Ho Hoing while he passed out gifts. He made that time so special. I really miss him every Christmas since he died.
The third memory I have is that of my Aunt Von. She would make the most wondrous jello salad and banana nut bread. Her traditional present to me was 3 large loaves of banana nut bread that I didn't have to share with my hubby & children since they each got a small loaf. My traditional present to her was 3 gallons of shelled pecan halves given a week before Thanksgiving. I would spend hours shelling pecans starting in October thinking about her wonderful jello and bread.
I became the Scrooge of the family when my mom and brother died. I don't bah humbug or lock myself in a room like dad, but I don't participate well at large family gatherings usually. I make my appearance right before gift passing, staying on the outside of the family circle, and leave right after.
Why? Because it has become more about the presents than the thought and love of family. Too many times I watch as my handmade gifts get thrown in the corner while the store gifts get all the attention. Although, I have realized that by the end on the day, those are thrown in the corner too. Kids have too much stuff.
At first I would get my feeling hurt by the lack of appreciation of the hours spent making and thinking about each person. Then I stopped caring and did it for the joy of making those gifts. My grandchildren now know that each Christmas they will get a handmade gift - either an embroidered bath towel or an embroidered pillowcase or handmade pj pants- and that on their birthday a store bought gift will be given.
This year, I felt appreciated because my DSD#2 asked for towels as did my DGD#1 and DD#1. DD#2 was disappointed when I gave her pillowcases this year b/c she wanted me to embroider towels for her which I will do as soon as she brings them.
DGD#2 was excited that I gave her teal camo pillowcases since she thought she wouldn't be getting a gift since she got the Element in August.(She understands that I give to her all year round not just on one day!)
Well, Scrooge is going put the casserole in the oven and retire to the sewing studio!
Lator Tigers! Keep your Christmas STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday Week 51 1/2 December 25, 2011

2011-12-25T06:45:00.000-08:00

I will finish my stash report year reports on December 31st since 2012 starts on a Sunday. Hopefully, I won't be tempted to buy anything next week and will finish something...wishing to finish Saint Stars 2 or binding on Live,Learn, Laugh, Love. I also need to make pillowcases for our bed. I am also working on a secret project for DD#1 and her hubby too. Hopefully that will go well.
Stash Added this Week: 0 yards
Stash Added in December: 15 yards
Stash Added YTD: 135.065 yards
Stash Used this Week: 2.5 yards (2 pillowcases)
Stash Used in December: 9.25 yards
Stash Used YTD: 173.56 yards
Stash Enhancement: 38.495 yards
Challenge for last Quarter of year: 45.125 yards
I have entered the 21st Century - My Christmas present from my DH was a slightly used iPad ( I wanted one and my DGS#2 was selling. DD#2 hooked DH and DGS up and the rest is history. I have already read 2 books and played lots of games. It was also very helpful entertaining Spirit on Thursday. It may not be the newest version and doesn't have a camera but the price was right and it is big enough for my old eyes to read. I am finding more and more that it can do each day. .
I cooked for Christmas which is a rarity b/c holidays and I just don't go well together. The disappointed faces b/c someone didn't get the expensive present they wanted; seeing my homemade, time consuming gifts thrown in the corner; the rush rush rush of getting everything ready and being one of the few who appreciate all the work and expense it took to get dinner ready. But I figured what the heck DGD#1 wanted an at-home-Christmas so it was part of our gift to her.
Saturday, I went on a cleaning binge in the kitchen and dining room. I even managed to de-clutter the living room except for DH's side table. This morning I mopped the whole house and found a box for the table clutter. At 11am, I will finish cooking the green bean casserole, heat the ham & roast, and set the table for 8 and set up the kitchen table for 3. Eleven people and not all my children w/family or DH's are coming for lunch. That would be 15 more. I still think it would be better to go to their houses for Christmas!
Hopefully, Monday will see me tackling the den aka the junk room. That really needs to be done since my Phaff is coming back with the frame and I need a place to set it up and the hand quilting frame too. The laundry room needs cleaning too but it will be last as usual. It will become the new junk room.
The plan is to move sewing room into den and then move DGD#1 into the larger room. After her stuff has been arranged in one closet, we will move the girls' stuff into the other closet. We will also put a twin bed alongside with her bed. That will give other guests(especially Spirit) a place to stay while DGD#1 things are hidden.
I will set up my sewing machine and fabric stash in smaller room. In the den, we will set up the Phaff and hopefully a second twin bed as a day bed/sofa.This will give DGD#2 a place to crash when she wants to visit. All this moving and cleaning etc may take 6 months but it will all get done...I hope...unless DH decided to complete the back studio so I can move there. Honestly, I am hoping that all my cleaning will put a spur to him to get it done.
Well, I am off to ....I forgot!
Lator, Tigers! May your year end peacefully.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-24T09:02:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you!
DH is a 'collector' or a "hoarder" so every nook and cranny is stuffed with 'could be used' stuff. The counter tops, table, and all flat surfaces in our home are covered with piles of 'stuff'. I am throwing away as I clean the kitchen (I refuse to cook in a cluttered kitchen! Oh, wait, maybe I should rethink this cleaning and throwing b/c uncluttered kitchen = more cooking.lol). So far I have 3 very full bags of 'stuff' to put in the cans outside and haven't finished the kitchen yet.

Dog food bags did come in handy!

DH, in a weak moment, never should have told me to throw it if I didn't want it or didn't know what it was for! Well, I am in a 'throw away' mood so I will continue with the dinning room and living room and if my energy keeps up, the den and bottom kitchen cabinets. DH sleeps late (noon or later) so I should be finished the kitchen & living room when he rouses himself from bed. I am in such a throw away mood that I threw Leeapaul and Lorenzo in the back yard with Ama. DH had better watch out b/c he may get 'thrown out' too.LMAO If this mood continues after the 25th, the trash will be huge!

Almost ready!

I prefer to visit my daughters at their homes for Christmas leaving the expense and work of cooking & cleaning before & after to them! I get to visit with my grandchildren etc. with no stress which is the perk of being known as a "reluctant" cook. But this year we are staying & cooking here. Our children, grandchildren, & friends have been invited to come eat and bring a dessert.
Well break time is over! Lator Gators! May your Christmas be STRESS FREE.

UFO List for 2012

2011-12-20T11:53:00.000-08:00

Sorry! Having problems with getting blogger to do what I want.
1) Saints Stars 2 - All blocks are done! Embroidery needs to be completed. Then it will be quilt-as-you-go and bound.
2) Faux Wedding Ring - QAYG that will be a bed scraf.
3) CA#3 - All blocks are made, but top put together incorrectly. It needs to be unsewn and resewn. Then quilted and bound.
4) Tumblers - Top is almost done. It needs more rows ( have to use Go to cut more tumblers) and to be quilted and bound. It is due in May for graduation.
5) Orange Tom Cat - It needs a face and embellishment. Then bound.
6) CA#2 - All blocks made. It needs to be put together and bound.
7) Halloween Graduation Quilt - all fabric has been collected. Octagon template bought. It will be put together using log cabin construction. It has to be done for May, 2012.
8) Paper-pieced Cats - First cat body has been pieced and 1 tail. This one may be a two year UFO.
9) Log Cabin Squares - Top made (by someone else). It needs backing, quilting, and binding. It will become a charity quilt for either QGA or KofQ.
10) Soccer Beauty - It is ready for me to quilt it using qayg method.
11) Round Robin Quilt - top finished; needs backing; quilting; and binding.
12) Twisted Sister - The top is made and at the quilter's. It will need to be bound.

PIGS List:
Xavier's Puffed X's and O's - needs to have puffs closed and backing applied.
Message Center - needs letters, backing, and binding w/hanging sleeve
Mr. Mike's Jacket - back done.

Batik Leaves - All the leaves are done. Sashing needs to be found. Then top needs to be pieced, quilted, and bound.
Paradigm Shift - All blocks done but need to be squared and put together, quilted, and bound.
Cinnamon Baskets - 1 block done.
BOM Stars - first 4 months done. It will go in the camper to become a second travel project.
Mystery Quilt from Hell - working on step 5 of 12. In the camper as travel project.
Antique Kats - 2 blocks made.

The plan is to work on the Saints Stars 3 in January while working on Tumblers and Soccer Beauty. Then in February, work on Halloween Graduation Quilt. These 4 need to be completed ASAP
The number that Judy L picks will be hopefully done in-between the others and is an easy one to do.
But you know what happens to the best laid plans of men and mice!
Lator Tigers! I am off to complete Christmas presents.

Stash Report Sunday week 51 December18

2011-12-18T05:35:00.000-08:00

Stash Added this Week: 0 yards
Stash Added in December: 15 yards
Stash Added YTD: 135.065 yards
Stash Used this Week: 3.75 yards (3 pillowcases)
Stash Used in December: 6.75 yards
Stash Used YTD: 171.06 yards
Stash Enhancement: 35.995 yards
Challenge for last Quarter of year: 42.625 yards

I made 3 pillowcases this week. I have 3 more to make for Christmas gifts. I don't think there will be much usage between now and Christmas other than the pillowcases since I need to work on embroidery projects to complete my Christmas gifts.
I am making some changes in the way I do things for 2012. First, I will report the top and backing when I send it to DD#1 for quilting and then report the binding when she sends it back. Secondly, I am going to complete more than 4 of my UFOs this year. I have 2 more graduation quilts to do and then I can dedicate my time to the UFOs and PIGS in my stash.
Well, we are off to bowl as soon as DH is ready.
Lator Gators or rather TIGERS (Go LSU)!

Accentuating the Good...

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

and ignoring the bad! It has been a hectic three days. I had just pulled up into my driveway from an exhausting workout, when my cell rang. It was my second daughter. "Mom, come get me now, please." I began to panic immediately...after all she is 38 and a fantastically dedicated teacher. I backed out and off I went to get her. After about 5 minutes into the 20 minute drive, she called again asking if I were coming. Then I really began to panic!
I got to her school and she tells me we need to travel to Lafayette to the hospital b/c she needs to get blood immediately. She had gone to the doctor the day before and had blood work done...she had a blood count of 4.6. I still don't know what that actually means except that it made her doctor and his nurses get frantic. She spent the night in the hospital and received 4 pints of blood. The doctor there teased and said she came in 1/8th full and now had a quarter tank which was acceptable. All I know is that it was NOT the way I had planned to spend 15 hours of my life.
I picked her up at the hospital Friday morning and all she could talk about was going to school for her "kids." I took her to the school to pick up her car and keys. You know we were both panicking to leave her id behind. Then she drove home to rest.
Finding the good...DD#2 has some wonderful backup at her school who took care of her and will continue to take care of her. My DH took care of Spirit and Chris for 3 afternoons doing homework etc without complaining. He stayed without a car for 3 days and made the best of it. My camper went traveling since it was his only mode of transportation. More good...my DGD#2 kept a level head and didn't panic like we were or get mad. She tended to the business of finals with only one minor fuss at fate. lol
After being sure that DD#2 was on her way safely home, I drove to Maurepas to meet DD#1 so we could attend the Krewe of Quilters Christmas party. I was only 3 hours behind schedule! The road was clear and the speed limit wasn't obeyed. I arrived in time to help wrap DD#1's presents and admire the "Frog" quilt's quilting. DD#1 did an amazing job with her home machine on a frame. She kept saying it is a "20/20" quilt...looks good if you look at it from 20 feet for 20 seconds. As far as I am concerned, it was wondrous with all the custom quilting she did on each block.
My tiger ironing purse and tiger x-block table runner were graciously received by Beth. In fact several of the members want the pattern name so they can make one too.

My secret sister gave me the best present! A wreath for my door where it is hanging right now.
As a door prize, I won a mug rug, a thread paint ornament, a 2 year calendar, and 2 Ricky Tims patterns signed by him. Then i got a UFO note pad to boot. Finally, DD#1 paid for my supper and gave me the snowman candle lamp she won. How's that for GOOD!
I spent the night at DD#1's house and this morning started home. But decided that I needed hugs from Glenda. We had planned on meeting on Thursday for lunch but it didn't happen. So I called and she gave me directions. We had the most delightful visit and I got to meet Chloe and DiNozzo.
We exchanged tokens of friendship...she gave me a Q.S.M.A.S.B.C. (Quilter's Shirtless Man and Spicy Burrito Calendar) which is absolutely hysterical. Now if that doesn't make all the bad dissolve then nothing will! I am truly a blessed lady to have her for a friend.
As for her sewing room, well, she has a lot of stuff in a small room. Creative people are not neat usually and she is most definitely creative. There were quilts in every room I visited and more than one. I do agree with her that liquor needs to be applied to relieve the stress. But doubt that either of us will apply very much! We talk a good drunk.
Then I traveled home to DH. While driving, DGD#1 texted me with the message: MaCe hurry home. Pape misses you so much that he is buying inappropriate stuff on the internet. I giggled all the way home. Spirit and Chris came back from school not long after I arrived home and I think they let me take a long nap while they watch some kid program.
Tonight, I plan to go out with DH and then crash. Hopefully tomorrow I will get back into the sewing studio and complete some Christmas presents. The plan is to embroider one design on Saints 2 and then one towel or pillowcase. We shall see how it goes!
Sunday is DH's travel bowling league and we are going to Alexandria hopefully in the camper so I can sew some. Then next week, I will bring the Ellegante to the doctor in BR. That didn't get done yet!
See there is more good than bad going on if you look!
Lator Gators! Remember to look for the good to offset the bad.

Design Wall Week 50 12/12/2011

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

My design walls are still the same! One is DJ's graduation quilt which one day I will get the courage to finish and the other has Saint Stars 2.

bins for strips and scraps for dog pillows

I am in the process of putting the designs on the center of SS2 with the Ellisimo. Because the Ellegante is broke, I am cutting scraps as it works. Inbetween visits with trainer, doctor, and cleaning house not to mention chasing Lorenzo around the neighborhood that is.
Well, back to work!
Lator Gators!

Stash Report Week 50 December 11, 2011

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

Stash Added this Week: 15 yards (This is an approximation of yardage I won at the Christmas Auction for QGA.)
Stash Added in December: 15 yards
Stash Added YTD: 135.065 yards
Stash Used this Week: 3 yards (I completed the xblock table runner.)
Stash Used in December: 3 yards (I did use fabric for Nu's tumblers blocks and Saints 2 but can't count until finished.)
Stash Used YTD: 167.31 yards
Stash Enhancement: 32.245 yards
Challenge for last Quarter of year: 38.875 yards
The QGA Christmas Auction was Tuesday and I bought things. I tried to keep it to non-fabric items but it seemed that most were doing the same. LOL My booty consisted of cookbooks (2), novel(1), patterns(9), angel(1), wine(1), candle holder(1), baskets(3), Halloween fabric (5yards) and Christmas fabric (10 yards), and other items galore. All in all I was happy with my purchases and the money I spent will help the guild attain well known speakers. 2 for the price.
I finished quilting the tiger x-block table runner and worked on the Saints 2 quilt. The center is now put together and is just waiting for me to embroidery designs. I forgot how much work that quilt was. This one is prettier than the first in my opinion. Someone has even suggested that I make an LSU Stars quilt but I don't know. DD#1 is designing a center with crystal footballs on it. "Only LSU has a pair and a spare." but I think that they have to win the spare before I commit. lol
While quilting the tiger x-block table runner, my favorite machine broke. ugh. Usually there is something on the Ellisimo while I am piecing on the Ellegante. Without the Ellegante, either I piece or embroider on the Ellisimo. It goes to BR next Thursday and it will be 2012 before it comes home. I may set up the White to piece. I really miss my Ellegante. :(
Well, off to work in the Studio. I will have to spend twice the time there now;)
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire show up in your stash before 2012. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Week 49-December 4th, 2011

2011-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

Added this week - 0 yds (I haven't been near a quilt shop all week!)
Total for December - 1.38 yds ( Gold on Black music notes)
Added YTD - 120.065 yds
Used this week - 0 yds ( Worked all week on X-block LSU table runner)
Total for December -0 yards
Used YTD - 164.31 yds
Stash Reduction - 44.245 yds (in the black)
Used in last four months of year - 35.875 yards (Made first goal of 33 yards and will get close to second goal of 66 yards)

I think that I will start counting fabric as top and backing are sent to the quilter. I will count just the binding when it gets back. I only have one quilt at the quilter so after that one this plan will work. That way I will feel like I am accomplishing something on a more steady rate.
Lator Gators! I have a table runner to finish.

Staying Calm!

2011-12-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

My grandmother told me when I was small that bad things come in threes especially deaths and mishaps. So far in my 61 years of like, I have found that to be very true. She also said that if you handled the bad things with calmness and not anger that 3 great things would happen in a row soon after. Another of her words of wisdom that has been true 75% of my experience.

Spirit

Stars are done! Now for details!

Well, first, last week the tv in the camper wouldn't work to help occupy a 7yo. Then the toilet wouldn't flush and finally the generator wouldn't start so I could sew while DH bowled. Well, the 7 yo and I wrote stories for each other to read and listened to the portable radio. DH forgot to pull the right release handle so we went to a dump site and I pulled it. I cut out all the parts I needed for the Saints Stars 2.

Bright purple so I won't forget it is mine!

When I got home, there was a huge package for me. The travel case for my Babylock Ellageo which now travels with me was there. So one good thing!
Then my DGS #10 handed me a sweet smelling flower and didn't get in a fight with his sister when she wanted one. He politely told her that he would get her one next. Number two!
DD#3 called me to go exercise...I needed it! In all our traveling and hotel living, I lost another 2 pounds. Number 3!

The gremlins were not thru with me yet! The central heat would not work.
We went to start the car and it along with the truck were deader than door knobs. The battery acid had eaten thru the pole holder. Then the gremlins really did it! My ellageo broke! It runs fine but the needle doesn't go up and down and when it does it makes a strange noise.

But I remembered grandmother's words...calm not anger. So I called my wonderful air condition man and he soon had my house comfortable. I now have a new breaker and a new thermostat. Let my DH play with a drill and the pole holder. Being an old mechanic, he soon had both the car and the truck running well enough to be used. And I transferred the table runner I was working on to the Ellisimo and continued.

The boys watching the game!

Now the first good thing I want is for LSU to get on the ball win the SEC. They are losing right now so maybe the gremlins are playing with them too.
Tonight we are having a surprise party for my DH's 73rd b-day. So off I go to get ready. Hopefully, I can get him there on time.
Lator Gators! Keep 2011 STRESS FREE! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash.

What a Homecoming!

2011-12-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

We left our home on Wednesday, November 23rd and arrived back last night. It was really 3 separate journeys. First we loaded up Spirit, the 3 dogs, DH, and myself in the camper and made a trip to Abita Springs for the Thanksgivings holiday. Spirit started off telling us what she didn't eat and that we needed to buy spaghetti o's. Well, we didn't but she ate very well. Then she informed me that we needed tv to camp. Well, she survived w/o the tube. Finally, on the way to drop her off to her mom, she informed us that we were going back for Christmas and this summer b/c she liked camping w/us.
Lorenzo, the chug, had a great time camping too. He caught a duck and then went after the geese. Brave little dog! Then he ran after surf on the beach and just ran in th sand until he dropped. Finally, he ate sand and helped Spirit dig a moat for her sand castle. He was one happy tired little pup.
We stopped at the house b/c it was pouring and to get meds for me. Then off again we went so DH could bowl on Sunday. I had planned to sew all day but generator wouldn't start. Come to find out, DH decided to unhook one battery from the generator. Most of our problems with the camper have been DH 'fixing' something.
We slept in our own beds Sunday night and it felt so good. Then Monday morning off we went again. This time with DD#3 to New Orleans to the LAQUE conference. We had a blast and picked up lots of tips on using SMART boards which is the going thing these days. We even got to compare iPad with other tablets. I want an iPad badly but thinking that I need to wait.
Last night we got home. We were tired and happy. For our homecoming, we found no heat and car battery is dead. So today when DH gets up we will be finding out the problems. Still it is good to be home. I am getting ready to go into studio and sew with a portable heater to keep me company.
Judy L. picked UFO#12 this month. That is my "Mystery from Hell'' and I don't think I am ready to tackle it yet. I have not done well with completing my UFOs. They are UFOs for a reason and may never get completed. But I will be trying again and hopefully, they will get done sometime before I am done.
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday Week 47 November 20, 2011

2011-11-20T15:17:00.000-08:00

Added this week: 6.5 yards (2 jelly rolls is bright solids on sale for 50% at JoAnn's)
Added in November: 8 yards
Added in 2011: 118.685 yards
Used this week: .5 yards (iron caddy - Heat Resident fabric was not counted as coming in so won't be counted as going out)
Used in November: 14.25 yards
Used in 2011: 164.31 yards
Reduction: 45.625 yards
Total used in last 4 months of 2011: 35.875 yards
Monday thru Thursday, the gremlin in my studio hid 4 patterns I needed from me. Now it is hiding lotto blocks and swap block packs from me. This is why I am rearranging the sewing studio. I can't find anything so now I have to put things in certain places. My memory is so poor that everything has to have a special place or I lose it for a short while. I know they are in the studio.
Saturday, I went to the grand opening of the JoAnn's in Laf. I really could have done some serious damage to my stash report and bank account there. Instead, I bought the HR fabric I needed for another iron caddy and a jelly roll that I will need for a class coming in January/February/March. Then my DD#2 went back and got me another jelly roll.

I did do some sewing this week. I made an iron caddy purse by "Sisters' Common Thread" and an X-block table runner. SECRET!
Judy L. asked about who was planning of reporting their stash busting efforts in 2012. I will be continuing my reporting. It helps me keep track of what is coming in and going out. I shopped my stash in 2011 first and then went to the LQS. This will continue in 2011 for several reasons with the main one being money flow.
I will however change my way of reporting just as I am changing the way I store my fabric. My fabric has come out of the closet and bins. I have started folding it on comic boards and putting it on shelves where I can see it at all times. Seeing all that unused fabric quells my buying craze. Fat quarters and smaller pieces will still be stored in clear boxes. My PIGS (Projects stored that are 1/2 to 3/4ths finished) and UFO's and PhD's will be put in the closet to be pulled out as needed.
2012 will be my year of letting the PIGS out of their sacks and getting my scrap bin under control. For every new project I start, I must complete 2 PIGS and all scraps must be cut into strips and saved as they are made. The fabric will be counted when it is sent to DD#1 to be quilted or if all goes as she plans, when it is put on my frame which she will be giving back when she gets her new Handi Quilter in 2012.
Well, it is back to making stars and lotto blocks. My plan is to finish those blocks today so I can work on quilting the table runner tomorrow.
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

2011-11-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Added this week: 0 yards

Added in November: 1.5 yards

Added this Year: 112.185 yards

Used this week: 13.75 yards

Used in November: 13.75 yards

Used in 2011: 163.81yards

Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 51.625 yards

Stash used for last 4 months of year: 35.375 yards

I finished the KSQG lotto quilt and it has been claimed by my dear adopted(she adopted me) grand- daughter, Jerri, as her graduation quilt. i counted the fabric and blocks when I won them in June so I am counting them as going out. The backing material was counted the first year I did the stash report so it got counted too. It felt so good to have an used amount that went over the amount I planed to use before the end of the year. Now when my DD#1 get finished quilting the Twisted Sisters quilt for my slightly twisted sister...can't be a Whipp without being slightly twisted...I will have another big 'used' and I am working on binding the small quilt my DD#1 put together for my hubby. It was a joint effort...I did the Dresden plate part and she made it into a quilt. Smart woman!

Well off to watch the Saints do their thing...which is hopefully win against Altanta but as long as they play well, I am ok.

Lator Gators~May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday Week 47

2011-11-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

Added this week: 1.5yards

Added in November: 1.5 yards

Added this Year: 112.185 yards

Used this week: 0 yards

Used in November: 0 yards

Used in 2011: 150.06yards

Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 37.875 yards

Stash used for last 4 months of year: 21.625 yards

I spent 2 days shopping at the International Quilt Festival in Houston and only bought 1.5 yards of fabric. I took home lots of tools and patterns. My major purchase this year was a bag for my Babylock Ellageo. Embroidery takes lots of planning since most computers don't have floppy drives. It is good to do lettering etc however. It became my very large and heavy carry machine that sews like a dream.
This week I will be working on the stars for the commissioned quilt and the binding of the KSQG lotto quilt which means a large gain in fabric used FINALLY! The KSQG quilt is going to be a graduation quilt for one of my 'adopted' grandchildren. She adopted me and I was agreeable to it. LOL
This Wednesday Leeapaul goes back to the vet in BR to see about his leg and hopefully it is healing properly now. Thursday I have exercise at 7:30, a guild meeting at noon, and DGD#2's choir performance in evening. Oh, and homework with Spirit and Chris in afternoon. Very busy day!
Life is always busy and full. If it weren't, I would probably give in to Art Rightis and Hashamoetoe. Just take my meds, hurt, and stay depressed would be my life. God sure knows what He is doing although sometime it gets hectic.

Lator Gators! I am off to make stars and put scores on them. May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Less than 24 hours to HOUSTON

2011-11-02T16:39:00.000-07:00

I think that says it all! I am getting so excited...made arrangements with DH to bring me pick up Pam and then meet Dee at BK in Lafayette tomorrow evening. With Dee's driving we should be in Houston by 8pm and then the party begins. This year fabric is not on my list unless it is solid b/c I am finding fabric everywhere and am still organizing what I have. So far I have noticed that solids are not in abundance in my stash but prints sure are and lots of batiks.
I want to make a color graduation quilt so I need solids. A graduation quilt for DAGS is in order too for May so it just may have two stones to throw with one quilt. Don't know yet!

Today I sewed on blue and white blocks and got felt and t-shirts for a dd#1 project. I am cleaning my machine and putting the embroidery unit on.
After Houston, I need to get busy on the Saints quilt and on pillowcases for the KSQG Christmas party and a handmade gift for the Krewe of Quilters party. DD#1 has one idea and I have another...hers is time consuming and mine is rather quick. We shall see how things go. DJ's quilt is still waiting!
Well, off to clean machine, pack for Houston, and maybe put binding on a quilt.
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you need find its way into your stash before you want it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday October 30 Week 44

2011-10-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

Added this week:0 yards

Added in October: 5.75 yards
Added this Year: 110.685 yards
Used this week:.0 yards
Used in October:5.885 yards
Used in 2011: 150.06yards
Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 39.375 yards
Stash used for last 4 months of year: 21.625 yards

Which border - lines or flowers

I like the flowers best.

I have been sewing on my "Twisted Sisters" baby quilt which is no longer baby quilt size.
I have decided that it will not go to the baby but to the grandma, my beloved sister, who is going through some serious health issues right now. It is big enough for her to use as a sofa cover to snuggle with Austin, Sofia, or the new baby.

We have been cleaning graves this week. We (me!) cleaned 35 years of old paint off DH's mother's grave. It is clean right down to the cement. Then we painted it a soft gray. Today we worked on the graves in my family's site and finished the painting. A labor of love! Tomorrow I go find affordable flowers for the graves.

DD#1 completed the quilting on the KSQG lotto quilt I won. Now I have to do the binding. I think I will trim it this coming week and then bind it on our trip to Houston this weekend.

yep, We are heading to Houston on Thursday evening as soon as BFF Pam is off. DD#1 will meet us and off we go. I am getting excited and already have a list of things I want to seek out.
Lator Gators! I am going rest from those 'labors' of love. May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash.Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Swap Block from Laurrie

2011-10-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

Block from Laurrie.

Ain't it grand! See her block peaking out of the back.

Stash Report Sunday Week 43 October 23

2011-10-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

Added this week:1 yards

Added in October: 5.75 yards
Added this Year: 110.685 yards
Used this week:.5.75 yards
Used in October:5.885 yards
Used in 2011: 150.06yards
Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 39.375 yards
Stash used for last 4 months of year: 21.625 yards

Last week I worked on binding 2 charity quilts for Krewe of Quilters. One was pink and browns made by DD#1 and the other 4 patch with travel theme made by me. Both were quilted by DD#1. Then I worked on wallets for the craft show/flea market DD#1 and I attended Saturday. That was an experience...not much sold but we had a good time people watching and I finished binding DD#1 reversible string quilt...lots of binding strips!

I received some lovely fabric from one of the Bee participants who couldn't do my block. I was so happy that she at least sent the block back since I haven't received all 11 back. That fabric was perfect for a project DD#1 is doing so I gifted it to her along with a fat quarter of phones. I used 2 fat quarters to make Saint wallets for Saturday and a half yard for bindings.

This week I plan on working on the Saint Stars and birthing 2 quilts made by my grandsons last summer.

Stash Report Sunday October 16, 2011 Week 42

2011-10-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

Added this week: 4.75 yards

Added in October: 4.75 yards
Added this Year: 100.685 yards
Used this week:.0.125 yards
Used in October: 0.135 yards
Used in 2011: 144.31 yards
Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 34.625 yards
Stash used for last 4 months of year: 15.875 yards
While seeming to be going backwards, I am actually making progress with exchanging older fabric for newer fabric. This week I was doing just fine working on my swap block using fabric in my stash then on Thursday, I won a Halloween panel and traded for some "eyes" a friend won. I haven't counted the purple that I traded since she hasn't gotten it yet. So that was 1.75 yards added to my stash. Then we went to the GSQA meeting in NO Saturday and I found the perfect green & purple fabric for a project a friend requested. Some pumpkin orange fabric had to be added so a placemat could be made and those totaled 3 more yards.
I was expecting a big "use" on my chart since on Sunday I was suppose to go to LC in the RV and sew all day while DH bowled. Those plans were canceled due to price of gas and a camping trip next weekend so the bindings won't be finished until Monday.
Next year I plan on counting fabric as soon as it is made into a block and then when the quilt is sent to the quilter, the back will be counted, and finally when it is bound and deemed finished, I will count the binding.
Friday, I had the best time with Glenda and friends in BR sewing on the sawtooth cats. It was so much fun! I finished one block and was working on the tail when I noticed that the tail goes in the wrong direction. OOPS! Well, I guess it will go to another cat and is better than paper piecing a piece and then cutting it off twice.
Well, I am off to cut binding for several quilts.
Lator Gators! May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash undetected. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Thoughts gone Haywire!

2011-10-13T19:11:00.000-07:00

outside my window...north wind blowing in cool air!
i am thinking...this weekend is too packed with activity.
i am thankful...that my camper is fixed so now I can go dry camping again.
i am remembering...the good time I had at the KSQG meeting today!
i am listening to...silence.
i am going...to BR, NO, and LC between now and Sunday.
i am hoping...the weather is pretty this weekend and cool but not cold.
i am looking forward to...sewing on Friday with Ann and Glenda & the GSQA meeting on Saturday.
one of my favorite things...listening to Sammie squeal when she sees Halloween fabric.

I had a blast at the KSQG meeting. While I didn't understand the attraction of wool, I did enjoy the presentation. I won a Halloween panel and traded purple fabric for a yard of eyes. The Halloween panel will be used on the door this year and then become part of Samantha's quilts back. The eye fabric will be incorporated into her spider web quilt made from an octagon. We have collected fabric for 6 years so it should be an interesting quilt. I think there is enough for 3 quilts in the Halloween stash.
Lator Gators! I am off to pack for the weekend activities. Let's see: sewing machine (check); supplies for sawtooth cats (check); thread (check); scissors (check); vinyl(check); fabric (check); what else -I forgot and will buy at Mes Ami on Saturday!
May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Wednesday Thoughts

2011-10-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

outside my window...RAIN DROPS FALLING!
i am thinking...you should not wait for someone to make you happy. You can do that yourself.
i am thankful for...peaceful days and quiet nights.
i am remembering...how lazy I really am!
i am listening to...music that seems to be modern rap.
i am going...exercise tomorrow morning and then to KSQG meeting.
i am hoping...the rain brings cooler weather.
i am looking forward to...sewing on Friday with Ann and Glenda
one of my favorite things...watching Ama play with Spirit, Lorenzo, and Kole. Sometimes you have to wonder who is chasing who.

I got half of what I needed to do done. I put together another row of sashing on the Twisted Sister quilt. Then I made the block for my swap. I like the way it came out. It even came out the correct size which is amazing to me.

Then DH took me to the local casino for $5 lunch. While we were enjoying our lunch, we remembered that Spirit & Chris got off school early so we ate quickly. Once they got here, we all went take a nap especially Chris.
Spirit made a F on her science test which upset me b/c she knew that information inside out. I guess it was not a good day for testing her. I was very upset with her. She has a Social Studies test on Christopher Columbus Friday. We are studying even harder. Chris also had a bad week testing! Spirit and I worked on homework and study work until Billie came to take me to gym.
It started raining not long after I got back from exercising and DH needed to go check on the truck so we packed everyone up and off we went. Seems Smithy needs a new fuel pump which we just changed not 2 months ago. Well, at least it is in warrenty and they gave us a gift certificate for the trouble.
We decided to share a Taco Bell $5 box for supper. There is enough for both of us and doesn't do too much damage. LOL
Tomorrow is exercise early and then the KSQG meeting and preparation for sew day with Ann and Glenda. I am so excited. DH and I will go to BR Friday morn and then stay at DD#1's house for the night. Saturday we travel to NO for GSQA meeting and Sunday is Bowling in Lake Charles. No wonder I get tired!
Lator Gators!

Tuesday - Great so For

2011-10-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Today's thoughts:
outside my window...Cool nite breezes and crickets singing
i am thinking...life is what you make of it.
i am thankful for...the little things that make me smile.
i am remembering...all the things I have to get done this week.
i am listening to...peace and quiet in my house with Lorenzo snoring.
i am going...to sew tomorrow.
i am hoping...the addition of tomato paste will improve the taste of my chilli.
i am looking forward to...sewing on Friday with Ann and Glenda
one of my favorite things...sitting on the couch with DH and the 3 dogs.

Spirit in her pillowcase dress. It is tied too tightly.

This morning, I cut and marked the pieces for my swap block. Then we went visit with Ms. Ruby Landry, the 96 yo lady who lived across the street. She had other visitors and I am waiting to hear her comments about them. It should be interesting!
On the way home, we stopped by the RV Repair Shop and they told us to bring the RV in. The generator and inside electricity work perfectly, but are not speaking to each other. What I mean is that we have electricity when we plug the motor home in but not when we start up the generator. Once they fix it, we are off to dry camp in Lake Charles and I get to sew while DH bowls. I think I have mentioned before that I love to dry camp --- well, I just love to camp. It is pure sewing time!
Once we got home, I cooked the meat for the chilli. It was done by the time Sammie(DGD#2) and Nu(DAGS) came to change the oil in the Element. DH and Sammie went to Walmart to get the needed supplies and I drove Nu to work.
When I got home, I helped Spirit with her homework and chuckled while listening to DH and Sammie discuss how to change oil and if a "girl" could do it. DH got paid back for those sexists comments when a big wasp stung him on his head. I promptly sprayed the nest and applied ice to his head while Sammie grinned and washed the Element. DGD told DH that a "girl" would know to look for stinging bugs before banging on things!
Then Billie got there and we left to go exercise. I did the elliptical trainer for 50 minutes (too long for now my knees hurt) while watching Ty build a house in a week. Billie vetoed me when I told her that DH could not have a pineapple shake. She said that he deserved it after being stung. High Blood Sugar level means nothing!
Finally, I sat down to my chilli and soon realized that I had forgotten to put the tomato paste in the mix. Oh, well, tomorrow I will put it in when I reheat the batch. DH and I watched several Bones programs and then a Fons & Porter. Now we are sitting and each enjoying their computer.
Like I said it has been a great day. Tomorrow I have business to tend to; exercise; sewing on wallets for craft show, and just plain sewing. Also hopefully we will get the RV back with a not to big bill.
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash before you need it. Keeping 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday Week 41 October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

Added this week: 0 yards
Added in October: 0 yards
Added this Year: 104.935 yards
Used this week:.0.01 yards
Used in October: 0.01 yards
Used in 2011: 144.185 yards
Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 39.25 yards
Stash used for last 4 months of year: 15.75 yards
Today's thoughts:
outside my window...Warm breezes
i am thinking...how pretty the quilts looked blowing in the breeze yesterday.
i am thankful for...time spent with my grandchildren.
i am remembering...Samantha at 5 years old.
i am listening to...sounds of things banging next door.
i am going...to work on a day lounging pillowcase dress for Spirit.
i am hoping...to go camping next weekend.
i am looking forward to...going to sew Friday with Ann and Glenda
one of my favorite things...spending time with DH.
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash before you need it. Keeping 2011 STRESS FREE!

Interesting Morning

2011-10-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Today's thoughts:
outside my window...neighbor fixing his roof.
i am thinking...I need a vacuum packing machine to preserve lettuce and carrots since we eat so much salad and lose so much too .
i am thankful for...being retired and having a slower pace of life.
i am remembering...not to let DH fool with Smithy,the truck.
i am listening to...tin being dropped on the roof and DH coughing.
i am going...help DH get his liver function back to 48% or better.
i am hoping...DH or my mechanic can fix whatever is ailing Smithy.
i am looking forward to...a time when no one owes me money.
one of my favorite things...naps in the afternoon before Spirit & Chris get here for homework time.
This morning was interesting. i went to exercise and the trainer didn't show up again. This time the excuse was that his children were sleeping and he was working on his refrigerator. So I exercised by myself for 1hr waiting for him to come. Good thing I didn't have a thing to do this morning except go to the bank and WalMart.
I got home and had some interesting talks with my daughters. Being a sounding board can sometimes give you insights that no one knows you have. It also helps you plan for the future b/c you will be affected in some manner.
Then I got the bank deposit ready and we headed for the bank. Smithy, my truck, was acting foolish but I thought it was b/c I was low on gas. DH felt it was the spark plugs which he had fooled with on Wednesday. Well, we made it barely to the bank and then to Auto Zone. There DH changed the spark plug wires (hopefully, he put them in the right order b/c that matters!) After he changed them, we went to Walmart and DH worked on the truck again. We cruised home at the blazing speed of 45mph. But we made it home.
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire find itself in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

A Great Fall Day

2011-10-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Today's thoughts:
outside my window...dogs barking in the evening breeze
i am thinking...exercise tomorrow ugh but I have missed it.
i am thankful for...doctors that care.
i am remembering...how much I love the quiet times of life.
i am listening to...Lorenzo, Lilli, and Leeapaul snore along with Pape.
i am going...help DH get his liver function back to 48% or better.
i am hoping...my friends remember that I am there for them and all it takes is a call or text or email.
i am looking forward to...sewing Kats with Glenda and her friends.
one of my favorite things...tickle time(commercials) with Chris and Spirit.
Today has been an alright day. We went to DH's Kidney doctor today. This doctor really cares for his patients but understands that sometimes he has to be stronger than others. DH's kidney function level went from 48% in July to 34% in September. This shows the doctor that DH has NOT been following his advice. The good thing is that he lost about 7 pounds. (I exercise and diet for 3 months and he loses weight eating what he desires. I changed my routines in April b/c my numbers were crazy and his numbers get fantastic while mine stay crazy. Doc says maybe he should treat me instead of DH! LOL)
After the doctor, DH and I went to the casino for their $5 senior buffet. They have things we should be eating as well as stuff we should stay away from. Both of us ate as healthy as you can eating out.
Then we came home in time to sit and enjoy the cool breezes under my will-be screen porch. Spirit and Chris came home. Chris did his homework outside under Pape's supervision (napping) while Spirit and I worked on homework inside. After homework and studying were done, we joined them. The dogs played and chased each other while Spirit ran after them and Chris rode the scooter. Finally, Spirit and I went inside to warm supper. Spirit set the table which made her so happy we were using the dining room table for something other than homework. We had carefully prepared wheat spaghetti with turkey meat sauce. The kids and pape had diet soda while I enjoyed a glass of wine with sprite.
After supper, we sat down and watched tv. Tickle time(commericals) was especially fun. Pape had to go rescue DSD who had ran out of gas for the upteenth time. Around 7pm, DD#4 came and picked up the kids and paid us with an ice cold diet root beer and diet DP.
It was a great way to end the day. I took Pape's blood sugar and it was at 114 which is great since it was running 210 all week end.
Tomorrow I start of the day with the trainer and then QGA work. Then I get to sew! I will be working on the KSQG lotto blocks and the last of the Saint Stars which are coming out better than the first quilt.
Have a great evening.
Lator Gators. May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Weather

2011-10-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

Today's thoughts:
outside my window...the sun is shining and a cool breeze is blowing.The weather here is just perfect at least for me...DH does not agree. I got to open the windows and let the fresh cool air flow through the house. Wonderful feeling! A bit chilly after 90 degrees Thursday but I'm loving it.I hope the weather is as wonderful where you are.
i am thinking...what a lucky lady I am and that tomorrow will be harder due to exercise done today.
i am thankful for...my DH, grandchildren, daughters, and health.
i am remembering...fall days playing with my girls.
i am listening to...zydeco and jazz on my favorite radio station.
i am going...to BR tomorrow to work on a quilt.
i am currently reading...blogs
i am hoping...life continues to be so pleasant even though I know changes are happening.
i am looking forward to...DGD's birthday on Wednesday and making Kats with Glenda.
one of my favorite things...watching Leeapaul, Lorenzo, and Lilly pick on Ama who is 3 times the size of them put together.
I have set a goal for myself today of 7 Saint Stars~~(4 done)~~; 2 KSQG lotto blocks, and ~~shelve 1 bin of fabric~~. So far I have accomplish about half. I keep stopping to enjoy the weather!
DD#1 reminded me that I have another project due before the end of October so I had better get moving.
Lator, Gators. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE! May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash.

Stash Report Sunday October 2, 2011 Week 40

2011-10-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

Added this week: 1 yard of red fabric with gold accents
Added in September: 20.25 yards (Wow!)
Added this Year: 108.935 yards
Used this week: 8.12 yards (8 yards of black & white to DD#1+ .12 yards for 5 lotto blocks)
Used in September: 15.74 yards
Used in 2011: 144.275 yards
Stash Reduced/Enhanced: 39.24 yards
Stash used for last 4 months of year: 15.74 yards

Saint Star with Music

I plan on returning to the sewing studio in a few minutes. I have cut out 7 Saint Stars that I want to piece today so I can embroidery Monday. The fabric for the KSQG lotto blocks has been found and is ready to be pieced. Instead of hiding my fabric in the closet or in bins (from DD#1), I am putting it out on shelves and putting all the UFOs, PIGs, and WIPs in the closet (DD#1 hasn't come to the house in over 9 months instead we meet twice a month at BQ). If I can see it, maybe I won't buy more. I can also fondle more big pieces this way instead of scraps. Maybe this will keep my studio from looking so disorganized.(Reminder to self: Next time in BR go to comic shop and get boards for fabric.)LMAO

1 bin minus fat quarters

I am also culling things so that I can donate to the QGA auction in December. So far, soup cups & cookie cutters, Christmas redwork w/border, binding, & backing fabric, a grommet purse pattern w/supplies, and a 5 yard quilt kit that I know I won't ever make. Who knows what other treasures I will find to donate!
This week has been an interesting week. Monday was exercise, cleaning, errand running, and bowling. Tuesday was lunch with DD#1 at BQ, open house for grandchildren, and guild meetings(am & pm). Wednesday was Vet visit at LSU in BR. Thursday, trainer over-slept and I later got sick - unexplained weakness, aching, and tiredness. Friday, I exercised with trainer to try to regain health, but it didn't work so I spent the whole day sleeping on the sofa moaning softly. OH, and homework with DGS Chris & DGD Spirit each and every day ill or not! Saturday, feeling more like myself, I sewed 1 row of sashing to the Twisted Sister baby quilt, cooked meat for spaghetti and chili, did laundry, and sewed on Saints commission. Today, Spirit came over to get her hair fixed and hug up on Pape. I made the chili and we ate watching Saints game accompanied by the 4 dogs - Lee, Lorenzo, & Lilly on our laps and Ama on the floor. DH is in shock - two home cooked meals in a row and football! He is wondering if this illness scrambled my brain. He loves it!

Lator, Gators! May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Betsy Chutchian's Workshop

2011-09-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Betsy

Today's workshop was enjoyable! It was very relaxed with a great group of ladies working together. There were people from Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lake Charles, and 2 of our guild members came from Lake Charles, but only 3 in the Lafayette area came. It really is a shame when people from other parts of the state recognize what a great guild QGA is and participate in the workshops, but our own members don't! Well, I am off that soap box b/c it was their lost not mine!

Pam

Mary

Lucy

I got to sew with Pam and that is always fun. She was stressed as usual but by the end of the workshop she was a bit more relaxed ... didn't have a finished block but relaxed which was the point. Mary(from Baton Rouge) and I bantered about the fact that we both love the same fabrics so maybe we need to shop in each others stash. Lucy (GSQA) picked different colors -red roses, black, black & white polka dots. Everyone's blocks were lovely even with all the pink!

Cinnamon

4 glorious yards are mine!

I even had PINK! Don't faint! It gets worse - I started with PALE BABY PINK found hidden in MY stash. Now you can faint.
But I was smart enough to give it to Pam as a background color to go with all her beautiful blues. Betsy had several beautiful cinnamon colored fabrics to replace the offending pink. (If cinnamon is pink, then it is a pink I adore). Lucy had already bought the one I wanted so I bought another 2 1/4 yard piece. Beautiful! Then I spotted the prettiest poison green print!

This block is not difficult but you do have to concentrate or you get confused. Needless to say, I stayed confused the whole time. My Alex Anderson Ripper was my 'bested' friend. First you had to make, 1 1/2" half-square triangles....lots of them (8 per block) but you had triangle paper for it. Then you had to make 4 1/2" h-s triangles...only one but not paper. Then you had to cut squares on diagonal and rectangles. Finally you had to sew it all together. Did I tell you I got confused? My final basket handle points are not correct. They should be pointing to the sides. Mine are standing straight up in shock over the pink. That's my story and I am sticking to it.

I like!

I really enjoyed the workshop. Basket quilts have never been my style but I could make a quilt from this pattern. I think that first I will complete 2 more of my 'special' blocks and make a table runner. Then later make a basket quilt. But not until I finish 3 other projects on my plate: DJ's graduation quilt; the Saints Star Season Reproduction; and the Twisted Sister Baby Quilt. So for now it is joins the PIGS (projects in grocery sacks) section in my studio.
The only bad note to the workshop is that Betsy's husband started feeling badly while he was out exploring Lafayette. Thank goodness he or someone called Betsy and she & Mary C. went find him. Having 2 nurses in the workshop was such a grand thing b/c they monitored him while Betsy packed and then took him to the ER. Last I heard he was doing much better and would go back to the hotel. I guess Cajun food is just not for everyone!
Well, tomorrow we are bowling in DeRidder all day. UGH! So I am off to pack my project bag. Only good thing is that this bowling lane has a broken air conditioner so I won't freeze.
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Challenges

2011-09-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Challenge 1: Oh, why did I get the home phone fixed! I just get into something and the thing rings. It is a sales person for diabetic supplies or magazines or insurance or something or it is someone looking for my SS or SD#2. UGH!!! It is a CHALLENGE to speak civil to these people.
Challenge 2: Why can't my DH understand that our two male dogs can not go outside alone? Especially Leeapaul! I got home yesterday and both the boys were missing b/c he let them out and they "took off." Did he call them or look for them immediately? NO! Lee is now limping more than before so heaven knows what he was doing. They are driving me crazy! It is a CHALLENGE not to get mad at all males in my life.

Challenge 3: You increase your movement (exercising 5 to 6 days a week for 10 weeks) and decrease caloric intake and you get smaller and healthy. Do I lose weight? NO! It is a real CHALLENGE to keep this level of commitment when nothing happens at the scale!

Glenda

Challenge 4: Pam is going to the workshop - "Gathering Baskets" by Betsy Chutchian using lots of half-square triangles on Saturday and Glen will be there either Sat. or Monday. This is not a problem b/c I can attend both days. This should be a hoot and fun beyond fun if both are there together. They will either love each other or really dislike each other! LOL Betsy uses pink(ugh), indigo, brown, and poison green. It is a real CHALLENGE to find the right fabric combinations in my stash.
Challenge 5: I have decided that wonky anything is just not my thing unless it comes with exact directions! It felt like a gremlin played tricks on me. It was a real CHALLENGE not to just send a New York Beauty instead!
Lator, Gators! I am off to conquer my challenges. May the fabric you desire appear in your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Design Wall September 19, 2011

2011-09-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

Muse left!

I have 3 design walls going right now. The first has DJ's Graduation Quilt which I have not touched in months so it is starting to drop pieces. Soon I will have to bite the bullet.

3 votes to 2

The Second has a top I am planning for my great-grand nephew to be born in January. So far 5 people gave their opinion and 3 voted for no corner stones.Just my 7 year old DGS#11 and DD#1 said they liked the corner stones for a boy's quilt. I like both and think the corner stones change the look totally. I'll work on it sometimes during the week and will go with the majority.
The Third has my Bee Swap blocks. My husband has claimed that quilt and wants the name and location of each sender added to the block. Too much started and too little finished!
This week I am helping my DD#2 in her classroom. She is a fantastic teacher but lacks the confidence that experience gives. So far I have helped present science experiments on the last 2 Fridays. It almost makes me want to go back. At least until she asked me to come help with her 6th graders. Ugh, I hated that grade as a child and dislike 6th graders as a whole except for my two grandchildren who are 6th graders. So I will be in her classroom on Monday, Wednesday, & Friday.
Well, time to get moving!
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need to fondle or use it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Fabric Added this Week: 5 yards
Fabric Added in September: 14 yards
Fabric Added Year to Date: 97.685 yards
Fabric Used this Week: 0 yards
Fabric Used in September: 1.12 yards
Fabric Used Year to Date: 129.555 yards
Stash Reduction: 31.87 yards
I was doing so well in May and then the fabric began calling my name! Not all the fabric came from LQ shops, in fact most came from DD#1.
Then I bought 5 yards at the beginning of September to do my Bee blocks. Maybe I should count that fabric as used since only 5 of 12 blocks have returned. That would help my numbers!
I think that I need to start counting my fabric as soon as I send the quilt top and back to DD#1 for quilting. She has at least 2 tops to quilt for me right now and 1 that is missing in action. LOL I really am not complaining b/c she does such a wonderful job and has one of my tops on her machine right now when she should be doing one of hers!
When all the tops I have almost ready get done, I should have big number changes. I hope!!

W/O corner stones

With corner stones

Right now I am trying to decide how to complete this top. It is for my grand nephew.

Lator, Gators.May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash before you need it or have to count it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday September 11, 20011

2011-09-12T05:43:00.000-07:00

Added this week: 0 yards
Added in September: 9 yards
Added Total for 2011: 92.685 yards
Used this week: 1.12 yards
Used in September: 1.12 yards
Used Total for 2011: 129.555 yards
Stash Reduced: 36.87 yards

This week I worked on a potato bag for Kristin and gave away 2 fat quarters to the KSQG. I also worked on the Twisted Sister blocks.
Update on POE: We learned how to make a multiple gift card holder and a folder Christmas Tree napkin. It was cut short since on of the presenter did not make it. I ran late by 10 minutes but caught up with the lessons. Lots of practicing sewing correct 1/4 inch seams.
Update on Truck: It has been running like a clock. We used it to go to BR for the POE class. It took us there with no problem but on the way back it started acting up. By the time we got home it was giving out. DH took it to O'Reilly's to get some things and it stopped running. Mechanic is going to pick it up and see what happened.
Update on Dogs: Lorenzo is doing fine and has stopped being so scare of Ama, the husky. He still doesn't like her around him but doesn't climb up on our heads to get away from her. Leeapaul isn't doing as well as the vets would like but he is getting better. It is just going to be a long haul for him.
Update on Exercise program: I lost 1 lb in 5 weeks, 35 inches overall, and decreased my BMI number by over 10%. These results amaze my trainer since that many inches and BMI decrease usually accompanies a big weight loss. I didn't expect to loss too much weight but was trying to gain strength and staying power so I was very pleased with inches and BMI losses.
Plans for this week: Exercise with trainer on Monday & Tuesday; lunch with DH in Kinder on Tuesday; drive to Maurepas if truck is fixed on Wednesday if not leave early Thursday morning to help DD#1 with preparations for her demo on mail-able fabric postcards; on Friday will be a stay at home day; Saturday is Nickle Quilts I think. Another full week.
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Ami Simms Workshop Update

2011-09-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

5 by 5

4 by 6

I am trying to decide on which arrangement to use. I know I like the color arrangement in the 5 by 5 best. Do I want this to be a lap quilt or a baby quilt. That is the question!
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report 9-4-11

2011-09-04T05:07:00.000-07:00

More Halloween for DGD#2's Graduation Quilt

Fabric Added this Week: 9 yards
Fabric Added in September: 9 yards
Fabric Added in 2011:92.685 yards
Fabric Used this Week: 1 yard
Fabric Used in September: 0 yards
Fabric Used in 2011: 128.435 yards
Enhancement/ Reduction:35.75yards

This past week was a great week! I gave Dottie a whole bag of kids prints about 10 yards total for a quilt she is making. Unfortunately she will give back over 8 yards probably. Then i had the Ami Simms Workshop that I used fabric from the stash which was about 4 yards total dedicated to that project w/o the back.
If I can get rid of my cold, this week is one of the few that is not busy. Except for exercise which has not been scheduled yet, I have nothing planned for this week so I can put bindings on two quilts that I have. This will make my numbers change somewhat. OOPS, I forgot POE on Saturday, 10th, and DH's Travel League on Sunday, 11th. But that still leaves lots of sewing time since i can't do laundry b/c of all the rain and sewage overflow (the joy of living in the country).
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Ami Simms Workshop

2011-08-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a fantastic workshop!

Twisted Sisters w/ Ami Simms

Ann, Glen, Ami, Me, & Dottie (l to r)

If ever you can attend an Ami Simms lecture or workshop, GO! You will have so much fun that you will forget what you should be doing and may end up with hand-dyed underwear.

Ann's block (I think)

Blocks by the 'Good Witch'

Dottie's Block

My Twisted Sisters Blocks

All my fabric came from stash so that makes me so very happy! The lights were from my K of Q secret sister and the others old stashdwellers. Hopefully, I will get enough blocks done for a top. As you can tell I had a blast!

Tomorrow, I have a 7am appt. with trainer in Church Point, 11:15 appt. with vet in Baton Rouge, 12 noon appt. with Glen at Hancocks, 3:45pm homework session with grandchildren in Lewisburg, and 6:30pm Toastmasters meeting in Lafayette although I may go to River City Quilt Guild meeting and DD#1's house instead of homework and Toastmasters.

Glen having fun!

Yes, Glen, there are days when I see myself coming & going. Then there are others that I am bored to pieces. LOL

Lator, Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE! Stay Busy!

Mail

2011-08-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

Everything is packaged and ready to mail. All Bee Blocks are caught up with and all swap blocks too except for August. Thank Goodness. I thought I would never get it all ready. But ready it is! Our local mailman looks at me like I am seriously nuts when I tell him it is just fabric. Oh, well, his is not to question what but to get it where it is going. LOL
I really love our mail people all joking aside!
Lator Gators!

Design Wall August 29, 2011

2011-08-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

My design wall hasn't changed much from last week! I am slow as molasses in February or a turtle with a cracked shell. There is just so much to do that I get overwhelmed and do nothing.

Kristin's Purse

Last week I wanted to do 3 things and I accomplished one. I made a purse for my DGD#1's 21st birthday on Thursday. She loves big purses and is always asking for something. I still have to make her a potato bag. That will have to be done by Thursday so I need to get cracking.

Teal and brown

Wednesday, I am taking Ami Simms' Twisted Sisters class. I have pulled dark brown for the background and a group of teal/blue/brown fqs from my secret sister.

Christmas Pillowcases

I found the perfect Christmas gift for my 2 of DGDs. I think I will give pillowcases to all the kids again this year or may give a mixture of pillowcases and towels. When you have 17 GC gifts to provide, it gets puzzling.
So this week I have three things to do: 1) Make Potato bag for DGD#1; 2) Make pillowcases for DGDs #3 & 4; 3) Sew on Twisted Sisters; 4) Work on Swap block for August. Not a bad agenda!
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday August 28, 2011

2011-08-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

Fabric Added this Week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in August: 11 yards
Fabric Added in 2011: 83.685 yards (10+ yards a month)
Fabric Used this Week: 2 yards
Fabric Used in August: 13.255 yards
Fabric Used in 2011: 127.435 yards
Stash Enhancement/ Reduction: 43.75 yards ( 5+ yards more a month)

We spent the day at the bowling lanes located at Fort Polk. My husband is the oldest bowler on the team and the only one who bowled all 9 games. He was tired!
We decided that we have to spend money and get the motor home fixed. Right now the generator runs beautifully and the motor home purrs when plugged in but the two don't communicate with each other. That means no 'dry' camping for us b/c of the heat. This is a problem when we are out of town bowling all day b/c bowling lanes are usually cold and I can't stand being in a freezer all day. Yesterday, I went outside after the 4th game and sat in the car to warm up. There was a cool breeze blowing and that kept the sweat to a minimum. I stayed out until the temp hit 110 in the shade. If the motor home was fixed, I would have stayed inside and sewed all day happy as a bug in a rug.
After the bowling we drove to Kinder and stopped at the casino for food and football. We had grilled chicken strips, ribs, wings, potato boats, celery, and carrots. Or at least that is what was ordered. DH says the ribs and wings were excellent and I liked the potato boats and grilled chicken with celery & carrots. The Saints were winning 24 to 20 when we left and won the game 40 to 20. Great way to end a weekend!
Leeapaul is healing nicely but still has the big cast on. It is as big as he is although all this inactivity has caused him to gain weight. He is up to 7 pounds and is as round as a little ball.
Lorenzo is eating like a little horse and the only other problem we are having with him is that when Ama or any large dog comes around, he climbs up & sits on someone's head like a white parrot.
Lator, Gators! May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash as you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Purse

2011-08-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

I had planned on making this purse on Monday and Tuesday but forgot that I had business on Tuesday that would prevent me from sewing also exercise got changed from Monday at 7am to Tuesday morning at 8am. So instead of making 2 bags I only made one...the other pattern will have to wait for next week if that ever comes.
This purse caused me to do some re-thinking. First, I have too much stuff. I know I have the 1 5/8" grommet but could not find them in all my stuff. Secondly, this purse is way too big and needs outside pockets. There is a smaller size .

Well, off to cut tumblers from my saints fabrics and 10" blocks from my coffee fabrics.
Lator Gators. May all the fabric you desire appear in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Design Wall August 22, 2011

2011-08-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

bag full of 3 1/2" tumblers

I have been so busy running around like a chicken w/o a head that my design wall still has DJ's quilt on it. One day I will get the courage to quilt it but in the mean time I am working on tumblers and purses.

Bag to make on Monday

Quick Change bag

Today and Tuesday, I will be working on 2 new purse patterns -grommet purse from Fabric Krazy in BR and quick change purse from Mes Ami in NO.

A few of my Saint collection

Wednesday, I think I will cut more large tumblers out of my extra Saint fabrics to use as l&e's. The Quilt Niche had the cutest quilts made from Saints fabrics and LSU fabrics and general fabrics.
Friday and Saturday, I think I will make a table runner using my coffee fabrics. There was a simple one that I really like using 10" squares.

I have a busy week planned but who knows what I will get done...I am so scattered brained and shiny new projects send me off doing something else.

Lator Gators! I am off to sew on the first purse. May all the fabric you need and desire appear in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

8" missing

2011-08-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Bummer!
Fabric 1 (focus) & fabric 3 (orange) for my Bee Block month were cut. 9 of the 11 sets of fabric 2 (blueish-teal) were cut when disaster hit.
So what to do - first I dug in my stash to see if I had 2" scraps 9" long. Nope! Then I dug for teals that would match close enough to be not too noticeable. Nope! Finally, I looked for another teal family fabric with enough to cut 11 sets of 4"strips. Green-tealish was all I had . It will do! Now all the kits are cut and I am packaging them for mailing.
Lator Gators! May you find all the fabric you desire in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report August 21, 2011

2011-08-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

Stash Report
Fabric Added this week: 11 yards
Fabric Added in August: 0 yards
Fabric Added YTD: 83.685 yards (about 10 yards a month)Ugh!
Fabric Used This Week: 11 yards (backing to dee & 6 yards for bee blocks)
Fabric Used in August: 11.255 yards
Fabric Used YTD: 125.435 yards
Stash Enhanced/Reduced: 41.75 yards (about 5 yards a month...I need quilts back from DD#1 but this week evened out)
This past week was busy and I felt I was catching myself running. That said, everything went off without a catch. DH is deemed healthy; Leeapaul's leg is doing as expected; DGD#1 is established in her apartment on campus; exercise went well until Thursday when Trainer wanted to change training time; and I made it to the Shop Hop and stayed within my $100.00 budget. I didn't need anything!

Fabric

Patterns & Tools

Shop Hop Blocks

freebies

Shop Hop: We left at 9am Friday morning and traveled to Fabric Krazy in BR from there we went to Mama's in Independence and then to Bright Hope in Mandeville and the final stop was Sew This in Abita Springs.Then we stopped at the Camilla Cafe in Abita Springs for supper and finally at 11pm we got to the hotel. Needless to say I crashed!
Saturday morning we left at 8:45; drove to Mes Ami in NO (amazing shop); then drove to Homa to The Quilting Niche'; and then to Morgan City to The Quilt Cupboard. We arrived at BQ at 5:15pm. It was a full 2 days! I fondled fabric like I was crazy and brought 11 yards worth home with me not counting the shop block kits.

I get the fat quarter rolls! Yum.

If my too-many-people-in-a-small place phobia hadn't kicked in at the last 3 shops, my budget would have been blown to pieces. I do plan on going back to those shops very soon.
Mes Ami and The Quilt Cupboard are worth the trip and The Quilting Niche' is right between them. mmmm Bright Hope, Mama's, and Sew This aren't that far away from NO either. Guess I just need to retrace the Shop Hop backwards.LOL

This coming week is not as full as last week:
Today: Kit fabric for my turn in Bee. Monday: Exercise & Bowl. Tuesday:Lunch with DGD#2 & Guild board meeting; Wednesday: Sewing on DJ quilt; Thursday: Leeapaul goes to vet & DGD#1's b-day lunch; Friday: Sewing; Saturday: work on farm; Sunday: back to sewing.
Update on Truck: Smithy won't start even though battery is fully charged...same song second verse. This is why it sat so long. Hopefully mechanic can find problem this time. Until then we are a one car family and neither of us like to be home bound.
Lator Gators! May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Shop Hop

2011-08-19T04:37:00.000-07:00

I made it thru the last 3 days exhausted and glad everything and everyone is fine and cleared by their doctors.
This morning I am leaving to go to BQ where I will get on a bus with 34 other quilters from the area to cruise the shops for 2 glorious days. Rest! Fondling fabric even on my small budget sounds wonderful. DH will have charge of Leeapaul, Lorenzo, Lilly, Lulu, and Ama. Hopefully all will get fed and Leeapaul will get his meds.
I will be back Sunday with pictures, books, tools, toys, and fabric.
Lator Gators. May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Busy Busy Busy 2

2011-08-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today started at 4am and hasn't finished yet and tomorrow starts at 5:30 and won't end until after 11pm. Stelly, my DH, had a small procedure today and if you know him, he does nothing quickly. So you know I had to get up about 2 hours early so I could be ready. I woke him up at 4:45am which gave him 45 minutes to get ready and in the car. Did he make it? NO! But we got to the hospital on time and his procedure went well. He doesn't have to get another for another 10 years.
After the procedure, we went to the casino to eat breakfast. The cook there makes the best bacon omelet. DH made up for all the food he didn't eat on Tuesday. LOL Then we came home for a long nap...for me until 2pm and for him until 3pm.

Tuesday, DD#1 and I went to BQ to have our fabric lunch and so I could give her a roll of batting, some backing material, and find out time bus was leaving on Friday. We found this print on sale at 40% off and it was just what I needed for the Garden Maze block. I had planned on getting the focus fabric on the shop hop. So after my nap and before my exercise appt., I put the block together. I had the teal and orange already in my stash. DGD#1 and I think that it goes perfect. She is already planning how I should quilt and embellish it. Every quilt I start, she wants and every one I finish DH wants to keep.
DGD#1 is cooking tonight and leaving for next semester tomorrow. Leeapaul goes back to LSU tomorrow also so we will have a loaded car to bring to her apartment. I will miss her cooking! She asked for one of my potato bags to use in the dorm to heat biscuits. Tomorrow I have a session with trainer at 7am, then drive to BR for Leeapaul's appt. at 11pm, then drop off DGD#1's stuff, and then guild meeting at 6pm. Some time in there we will find something to eat and maybe take a nap.
Friday & Saturday is the Shop Hop and I am looking forward to it if only to get away from the Drama King and Queen for a while. They are punishing me by not coming to or in the house when I am around. So to aggravate them I go outside and sit with DH. A weekend without drama sounds wonderful!
Well, DGD#1 has served me the best chicken Alfredo with broccoli. Now I am ready to take my bath and go to bed.
Lator Gators! May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash w/o breaking your budget. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Stash Report Sunday August 14, 2011

2011-08-14T04:56:00.000-07:00

Stash Report
Fabric Added this week: 0 yards
Fabric Added in August: 0 yards
Fabric Added YTD: 72.685 yards (about 9 yards a month)Ugh!
Fabric Used This Week: .255 yards (Bee blocks & Swap Blocks)
Fabric Used in August: .255 yards I'm sewing but not finishing quilts. They are all at DD#1.
Fabric Used YTD: 114.435 yards
Stash Enhanced/Reduced: 41.75 yards (about 5 yards a month...I need quilts back from DD#1)
This has been a interesting week between doctors and dogs and element exchange and exercise and truck repairs.
This coming week is filling up fast....
Today: Exercise with Billie; trip to casino to pick up gift; get truck ready for inspection; have discussion with mechanics /carpenters on how to build my screen porch(They need work to pay for their children's school supplies and I need muscles so as long as they work for cheap I will hire);
Monday:exercise in morning, get truck inspected, and bowling in evening;
Tuesday: prep for DH;
Wednesday: DH has procedure;
Thursday: Exercise in early morning &Vet visit for Leeapaul & guild meeting;
Friday & Saturday: Shop Hop;
Sunday: Cut fabric for my turn in Bee.
Update on Truck: Smithy is clean and runs . We just need to get it inspected on Monday.
Lator Gators! May the fabric you desire find its way into your stash before you need it. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Shade Tree Mechanics

2011-08-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

I came back from Sew Day to find that these two had volunteered to help DH fix the truck. The three decided that the fuel pump was the problem. So they pulled the fuel pump out of the gas tank. It was some kind of ugly mess with rust in the tank and a second clogged filter. No wonder the truck wouldn't work!

Getting the tank down wasn't that much of a problem but now they have to put it back on. Trouble with a capital T!
I am beginning to wonder if I will be driving this truck any time soon...after all the mechanics aren't as old as the truck.

Watching the three stoogies couldn't have been better than listening to the banter between these two, DH, and DSS..These two were just kids when DH and I became a couple. They were the neighborhood trouble makers and haven't changed much. Love them! All 4 are just big kids!
UPDATE: The truck is running like a clock and they washed it too.
Lator, Gators! May the fabric you desire appear in your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!

Coming of Age

2011-08-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Goodbye Ellie

Today is the day!
Today, I turn over my Honda Element (Ellie) to my DGD#2 Samantha. DGD#2 is a senior this year and 7 years ago Ellie was promised to her on her 18th b-day which is October 5th. Insurance has been acquired and DGD#2 has had 2 years of practice in every kind of situation except driving Ellie in BR. (My heart couldn't take it!)
So why is she getting it at least 2 months early? Well, her mom got a teaching job in Opelousas getting off at 3:30 and DGD#2 gets off of school at 12:10. The school is definitely not in walking or hiking distance being over 10 miles away and school starts Monday. So DGD#2 needs the vehicle early.
Now what am I going to drive? That is the 30 thousand dollar question. I used my down payment for a truck on vet and doctor bills over the summer so can't get a new truck just yet. I have to wait for the stock market to settle before that happens. So there just happens to be in our yard this 30 year old truck, Smithy, that DH is having fixed for me.

Hello Smithy

Why haven't we been using it? Well, Smithy has been known to stop in the middle of a trip (not necessarily in a convenient area) - take a 3 hour nap and then start again as if nothing was wrong. The mechanic has been stumped and has changed everything that can be changed except what I think is wrong - a short in the wiring harness and when wires gets hot, the truck stops.
All our cars have names: The element is Ellie; the crown vic is Lady Vic; the motor home is Vernalee (after my mom who loved to travel as long as you stopped by 6pm and ate at Cracker Barrel); and the two vehicles that old man Smith gave us -the car is Mr. Smith b/c it still smells like him after 15 yrs. and the truck is Smithy.
I have to be strong b/c it is necessary but am wishing I were the kind of person who didn't keep promises. This is one promise that is very hard to keep. But honestly except to have in case DH and I are going in different directions which is happening less and less these days, Smithy is all we really need as a second car.
After Smithy is running properly, maybe DSIL will paint Smithy Candy Apple Red or Metallic Teal as a Christmas present. One can only hope and wish!
Lator Gators! Putting my Big Girl Panties on (as my daughters all say) and handing over keys. May all the fabric you desire find its way into your stash. Keep 2011 STRESS FREE!