The New Year

I am sitting here drinking my morning cup of tea and thinking about the New Year. 2010 has been an interesting year, good and bad, but we made it through to 2011. I am hoping to get more sewing done, now that my week-ends are free from not working at BP, and I am hoping to be able to focus on more UFO's getting completed. I am hoping for a better economic forecast and market, and for the good health I have been blessed with. May it continue on in the future!! I am also hoping to spend more time with good friends and of course, my family. I am hoping to continue on this journey on living life simply, and free of extra "stuff" in our lives. To garden more, a bigger garden, so we can enjoy fresh, healthy veggies. I wish you peace and good health in 2011! May it bring you all you wish for and more!

Merry Christmas!!

It's Christmas Eve here in Northern California, and I know its a very busy day for a lot of folks, so I thought I would do my blog today. We had a short day at work today, so hubby and I were able to do a little shopping and have lunch out together. It was really nice. We came home, he is snoring away, and I am going to start the binding on a quilt that has been waiting for a quite while to be done. Tonight, hubby will make his world famous tacos and we will go to church for Christmas Eve services. Tomorrow, we will get up and have a nice breakfast together and open a few gifts and enjoy each other's company. Most likely we will all be taking naps if the rain pays us a visit to us as expected. I wish you all the Merriest of all Christmas' and Best Wishes and good health for 2011!

Bah Humbug!!

I don't know about you, but I have been hearing a lot of this lately. Yes, I am sure I am also guilty, inside at least! It has been a rough year for a lot of people, and I try to convince them and myself, it has to get better, it just can't get any worst! But still, folks are still feeling the pinch. At the Bump house, we had a meeting to discuss our situation, and came to the conclusion, that simple is best for us. We could really use with a lot less stuff and just enjoy being in each other's company. Our son wanted a fresh tree, so his present to us was a beautiful, fresh tree, and the best part, it was only $20. Our present to him, very practical items, undies, thermal tops, big bottles of shampoo and multi packs of deodorant, and a couple of other much needed and appreciated items of use. Hubby and I usually don't get each other presents, although, this year I bought him his fishing license, which is what he really wanted, and I know he got me something, but not sure of what it is. I did notice that my $4.00 coupon for a Brita Water pitcher is missing, so maybe that is what I am getting. We plan on spending the day together, although our original plans were to go on a nice, long bike ride, but due to the weather, I doubt we will be able to do that, so the back up plan is to watch all of the Indiana Jones movies, one after another until we complete the series. I look forward to this time together, for soon our 23 yr old son is moving out, and I know that I will miss him even more. What are your plans for Christmas day??

A Wonderful Give Away

RetroMummy is having a wonderful give-away of Lecien Fabrics, which are so adorable. Go to her blog and sign up. Even though she is in Australia, it is open to all everywhere! Good luck!

www.retromummy@blogspot.com

So Long, Farewell........

I feel like I am part of the Von Trapp Family! Today, was a sad day for me, it was my last day at Bearpaws & Hollyhocks. You will have to go to their website for more information. I will really miss the dear friends I had made while working there. What the future brings, I have no idea, but I will have time to sew hopefully. I will be able to take some classes at other stores that I have been wanting to take, but felt disloyal if I did, so I guess it is a good thing. On another note, hubby and I finally got our Christmas tree decorated, and I think that will be about it for decorations in our house this year. We just are not feeling it, like a lot of people. Hopefully, 2011 will be a better year not only for us, but for everyone. We are very grateful that we have our jobs, a roof over our heads and food on our table, where a lot of people don't. I am off to sew on one of the many ufo's I have sitting in a stack on my sewing table. Have a wonderful week-end!

Lesson Learned

Today, I learned a very important and hard lesson. I am not going into details, because what's done is done, but I will say life does goes on, and you learn from your mistakes, and boy did I ever learn from my mistake. And, you do learn who your true friends are, and I am very grateful for my true friends! With that being said, it is very stormy here in Northern Cal. I woke up to the raging wind blowing like crazy. This past work week has been very hectic, and I am grateful that it is over. I am hoping to get some baking done this week-end, we shall see. Oh yeah, the tree needs to be decorated still. We do have lights on it, but we have not had time for anything else. With this ugly storm brewing, we shall get that done also! Here's wishing you a wonderful week-end!

What I Did On My Thanksgiving Vacation

One week ago, Saturday, I took Kim's Christmas Wreath Class. This opened up a can of worms for me, why? Because, I have been making wreaths ever since then, minus 3 days, due to my injured finger. I have since found out that I can still tie them with my other fingers and not my index finger. I have 2 other ones completed, but I cannot show them, since the people they are for do read my blog. The one in the picture is for my son's girlfriend, who does not read my blog. She told me she doesn't have any decorations for her apartment, so I thought this was most fitting. I also gave her a tea towel that I had stitched a snowman on. She was very grateful and she is a really sweet gal! I hope my son keeps this one!! Today, I am making cookie dough for baking, but not today. I am really not in the mood to bake, sad, but true. I am hoping to get the rest of our Christmas lights up since it is not raining. We are already tired of leftovers, so the family asked for beef for dinner. I think it will be salisbury steak and hot noodles, a good, yummy meal after working outside. Hope you have a good rest of your holiday week-end!

A Little Late

I am so sorry this is a little late, but I am minus a finger, a right index finger to be exact! Tuesday, I smashed it in my car door in the Starbucks parking lot. I had to unlock the door and pull my finger out of the lock. I am very grateful that it is not broken. I went inside and a Starbuck's employee helped me get to the restroom. It's a pretty big gash, and my finger has swollen to 3-4 times the size it should be, but we got it bandaged. She even gave me a free coffee!! She thought I should go to Urgent Care for stitches, and that is the wrong thing to tell me!! I finished my client calls, and then met hubby at Walgreens for first aid supplies. You see, I was a Girl Scout for over 10 years, I have a badge in First Aid, so I was qualified to apply my medical knowledge to the situation!! Actually, the next day, I did go to the doctors, but she could not do stitches, too late, nor xrays, there was a fire the previous day, just my luck! She doesn't think it is broken, fracture, she is not sure, the car lock went through my finger, if I went last night, I would have received stitches. She bandaged my finger, gave me instructions, and explained to my that having a badge in First Aid does not qualify me to apply medical treatment, WHATEVER! Hubby was really good in helping me finish Thanksgiving prep, and Colleen and her man came over and we had a really good time!! Only downfall, no stitching for me, I have no feeling in my finger and it is still swollen. I did attempt dishes today, it was too bad until I hit my finger on the side on a dish, then I was a little vocal!! One last note, I did attend Zumba Thanksgiving morning, and I did feel so much better!! Enjoy the start of the Holiday Season!

Do Ya Zumba?

I do! Twice a week, every Tuesday and Thursday evening, 7-8pm, and I am addicted! I have been going to Zumba for 7 weeks now, and even though its only twice a week, I am seeing a difference in my body and how I feel. I may grip and groan that I am too tired to go, but I still go and I am so glad I did after class! It helps to have a great instructor, and I personally think I have the best in Renee. She is so encouraging and if you are not coordinated, (like me!) she tells you to do what you can, it will come to you soon, and she is right. I am finally getting the hang of it just in time for her to change our routine! My job is my job still, same old, same old, tough economy, but we keep on pounding the payment in hopes that it can't get much worse, it has to get better! I will try to post a picture of my finish Thanksgiving project, but I need to sew on some buttons first. Have a wonderful week, hugs to all!!

PS-Can't wait for Saturday, the world famous Kim is teaching another class at BP&HH, and I am attending!! Can't wait!!

A Rainy Sunday Afternoon

Today, in Northern California we had a rainy, windy day. It was glorious! So glorious, hubby and I got dressed and headed out to do so me much needed shopping. We had to get some MUCH needed necessities at Target, but of course, we needed to stop at Starbucks first, where I think everyone else in the Sacramento area was! Then off to Target, and then Home Depot, then Lowe's, then through Mickey D's drive thru for a bargain Diet Coke, then home for lunch. What were we looking for? An electric weeder, since my hubby goes through one every 18 months! But Home Depot was out of the one he wanted, but they were really nice and called another store that will hold it for me to pick up tomorrow. We were also looking for an artificial Christmas tree. We have one that is about 9 years old, a Martha Stewart one I got, and it has been a really good tree, but it has seen better days, and we have a lot of limbs that no longer work. We have been getting fresh trees for the past couple of years, but the mess and all I am not liking to deal with, so here we are, trying to find one that we both like. Hubby does not want a prelit tree, he hates all white lights, I like all white lights, so we compromise and alternate every year. From what I have seen so far, these are getting expensive, and hard to find unlit trees, but we did find one at Lowe's and Target that we like, and I think they are the same tree, same price. I will check out Walmart tomorrow, they have a similar tree online and at the store. We came home to a big pot of stew in the crock pot and I made some cornbread in my large cast iron skillet, it was so-o-o-o good! Then I watch a little football, snoozed a little, a little football, snoozed a little, well, you get the picture. It was a very productive day! Now back to the grindstone of work, ugh! Hope all have a wonderful week! Hugs!!

I AM So-o-o-o Sorry!!

I am so sorry for not updating my blog any sooner! I had today off, and met up with some fellow stitchers at BearPaws. We are trying to meet once a month and stitch, talk, eat and laugh together. We do really enjoy each other's company. I told them today when they mentioned that I haven't blogged for awhile, that I didn't want to bore you with my work, work work issues, since that seems to be all that is going on in my life. I have been stitching some, but nothing completed yet. Today, however, I thought I was going to finish a project, when the girls thought we should go on a road trip, so off we went, to the first of five thrift stores, and of course, we needed to refuel, so we had lunch at Vallejo's! Oh, how I love their green salsa, its the BEST! But the best was the company that I got hang out with. It really re-energizes me to be with such fun and talented ladies. We talked about future days spent together, road trips to the Bay Area, down in the Central Valley, and of course, stitching together. Saturday evening at BP&HH, I did take the Dinner and a Mystery class. Our teacher, Carolyn did an excellent job. This is my first mystery class, and I really did enjoy it. I only got 1 block done, but I am working on the rest. I hope she does another one in the Spring. Tomorrow, back to the grindstone, but for now, I am going to enjoy my cup of tea, and this beautiful Fall weather that we are so lucky to be having before the family comes home from their jobs. I promise to do better in the future with my blogging. Hope all is well with all, hugs!!

One A Week.....

My friend, Julie/Julia had a good blog today. She is trying to get one project a week done. I think that is a good goal to strive for, so I asked her to make a pac with me for each of us to do so. I am waiting to hear back from her, but if anyone else is interested, let me know. I will come up with some kind of incentive for whoever accomplishes their goal. As for this week, I am on vacation. I usually take this week off every year due to the Columbus Day holiday, and I stay home and piddle-as my mom says. I have a couple of dr/dds appointments, and one day I am going to Gran's house to sit and stitch with her and some other ladies I know. I am really looking forward towards that. I have a bunch of honey do's to get done also. I was hoping for cooler weather, but I am thankful at least it is not in the 100's. My family is really enjoying meals that they love me to fix, but I don't have time during the week when I am working, so that is good. I also get to take nice morning walks by myself, just to clear my head out, and I miss that. It's too hard time wise when I am working. I started taking Zumba classes twice a week at night, and I love it! I feel so much better, once the soreness and stiffness is gone! It's a blast! Well, off to get some stitching done on a project. Have a great week everyone!

A Special Day

Today was a very special day. Today, I got to be a part of a special celebration, in honor of my BFF's mom. She recently passed away, but she would not have wanted anyone to be moping around in sorrow, so the family planned this wonderful day of celebration at their house. Great food, great friends-new and established, and a warmth that was felt the minute you stepped inside! There were stories to be to shared, pictures posted all over to be looked at, beautiful things that she had made with her 2 very talented hands! This was the first time I had been a part of a celebration, and it was a great experience. Colleen-please extend my gratitude and thanks to you and your family, for being thoughtful to include me. Your family is extremely giving and very easy to be around, I left feeling like I was a part of your family. Your mom would have been very proud of each and everyone of you, and in fact I know she was smiling down on us he whole time. My daily thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, forever! I love ya, Lucy!!

It's Pumpkin Time!

Today, hubby and I made our annual pilgrimage to Davis Ranch in Sloughouse. It you read Kim's Big Quilting Adventure, this is the same place that she and Gran went to. I had teased Kim that she purchased all of the pumpkins they had, and asked if there were any left for me. She assured me they did. Well, she was right. Not as much as they usually had, but enough for us to make some great choices for our home. Halloween is hubby's favorite time of the year, and he really enjoys selecting and designing his pumpkins. He makes pretty elaborate designs, and really thinks the design through before starting. Me, on the other hand, looks for unusually shapes and sizes to decorate our porch and plant shelves out front. I also enjoy picking out a few extra pumpkins for my mom and her friends, and then takes them over one afternoon and help them carve the pumpkins or draw on the outside of the pumpkin. I do enjoy their faces when they do this. When we were there, of course we had to get some of their world famous corn, white corn to be exact. Our son prefers white corn, so to keep him happy we bought a bag, 24 ears, enough to last him for a couple of months, hopefully. We also got some fresh green beans, bell peppers, cauliflower, tomatoes-red and green(to fry of course!!), apples, and onions. I fixed some corn, green beans, and sliced tomatoes to go along with our grilled chicken tonight. Hubby said he felt like he was eating at the Walton's table! Tomorrow, my BFF-Colleen and I are making our annual trip to the Lodi Street Fair. I will take my camera to try to get some shots. In the meantime, welcome to Autumn, the 2nd most wonderful time of the year!

Autumn is Finally Here!

I am such a happy camper today, since it is the first day of Autumn. My favorite time of the year. I love the crisp in the air and the changing of the leaves, the hearty foods, and snuggling under an old quilt. My hubby and I just had our 25th wedding anniversary on Sept. 14th, but were unable to go anywhere at the time, so this Friday, we are heading over to Monterey and Carmel for the week-end. It will be so good to smell the salty air and to hear the waves crashing into the shore. We are taking our bikes to ride 17 Mile Drive, and have a picnic along the beach somewhere. Just to relax is what I am looking forward to. Until then, hugs to all!

What A Day!!!!!!

Today started early, I picked up Lucy at 8:15am, we hit Starbucks, then on to San Mateo we went. Over the river and through the woods, to the Quilt and Craft show. Our first stop, Bird Brain Designs. We chatted with the girls, then settled to some serious shopping. We were a little disappointed, they really didn't have much of a selection of new stuff, and the new patterns they had, they left at home! ;-( We did find a couple that we wanted to add to our collection, and I bought some of their heavyweight muslin, and on to the next booth. Sandy, owner of Stitching Station was there. She only works trade shows now since she closed up her shop, and that is where we found what we were looking for, Bareroots' Little Stitches of 12 month houses. We saw this quilt completed in our Knot-y Ladies group, and we both feel in love with it, so we got that checked off our list. The rest of the show was ok, not as many vendors, I sure due to the economy, but I did see Kay MacKenzie. She was doing well and looking well. She will be at the quilt show in Lodi in October/November, so I will see her again there. Well, after we felt we saw enough, we headed off to find lunch. Not quite sure what we wanted, I thought we show go to Thimble Creek in Concord. I had never been there, but heard a lot about it, so out came the GPS and off we went to Concord. We both fell in love with that store. They had a GREAT selection of embroidery patterns from both the US and Australia. We had a very hard time decided on what to get, but after we made our final decisions, and also making sure we still had lunch money, we asked what was around for lunch. As soon as someone said Claim Jumper, off we went. Lucy had never been there, so I insisted we go, and we are both so glad we did! We had such a yummy lunch, but more importantly, a YUMMY dessert, Mud Pie! We shared a slice. After our server rolled us out the emergency exit, down the ramp to my car, we got in to try to find our way home. We hated to leave! We had such a wonderful day, laughing, talking, singing to the radio and just spending some quality time together, which is what we both needed. Only downfall, was balancing the checkbook when we got home!!!!

Not Much Going On

Not much has been going on except for my job, which is very demanding at this time. I feel like I have been on a deserted island, away from all of my friends and fellow bloggers. I feel really disconnected. I need to make time to reconnect, but it just doesn't seem possible at this time in my life. On a good note. hubby and I just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. As fate has it, we are unable to celebrate right now, both of us are really busy. However, we are going away to Monterey and Carmel in a couple of week-ends, so that will be really nice. I might even get some time in to stitch. This Saturday, Colleen and I are heading over to San Mateo to the quilt and craft show. We went last year and had a really good time. We went crazy in the Bird Brain booth, both gals are so-o-o-o nice! I cannot wait. I am really looking forward to spending some time with Colleen. That's all for now. I am sitting in Starbucks, and I need to finish my report, so hugs to all!

I'm Moving!!!!!

Thought that might catch your attention. Actually, I am moving in a way. We had a meeting today at my job, and we were informed that we are no longer allowed to work out of our home on a company laptop. The reason, because we just don't do it anymore, it is not allowed, and we should not be questioning it. Ok, so what are we suppose to do about our weekly and monthly reports, and where are we suppose to go to complete them, are ya sitting down, at Starbucks. Free Wi-Fi. Are you kidding me? So is the company going to pay for my beverage tab at Starbucks, I mean I just can't sit there and take up space, air and seat both with our purchasing something, right??!! And what about print outs, well, we are to write down the information, or go to a branch and print it out. Oh yeah, we also have to give the company the first and last 30 minutes of drive time free, meaning, no mileage, so now we have to figure that out. So, we are now in the field 5 days a week, ok, we have weekly reports, and monthly reports to complete at a Starbucks, ok, and we need to use the branch for printing anything we need, ok, and we have to give up mileage the first and last 30 minutes of the day, ok. What's next? I guess I need to be grateful I still have a job, and I am, but sometimes, I do not understand where their thinking and heads are. So, tomorrow, 8 am, I will be at Starbucks in the EG Automall, tomorrow afternoon, I will be at the Starbucks in Lodi. Oh, this makes sense, I will be getting a lot of business at Starbucks!! Maybe I can complete a job application while I am there, then I can work while I am there! Just had to vent. Is that a Venti, with an extra shot?? Hugs!

September Morn!

This is the song I heard when I first woke up today. Good, ole Neil Diamond! It reminded me of how fast the year is going by! I am sorry for not posting more often, but my job is requiring A LOT of my attention right now. If only I could win the lottery, (of course with all of you!). I have been finishing up some stitching UFO's,( you know Gran, she just cracks that whip, don't ya know!! ;-) Tomorrow, I get to spend some time with my BFF, Colleen, who is going through some rough times in her family. I hope I can get her to relax and enjoy some time with out all of the pressures she has been having to go through. I cannot wait, I hope I can sleep. I am taking a class at BP&HH October 30th, Dinner and a Mystery. We are making a quilt top and enjoying a wonderful autumn feast. I cannot wait, but I need to get my fabrics ready for the class, thus tomorrow, Colleen and I head down to Beverly's, all of their fabric is 30% off all month long, and with a tight budget, this is a must. I am using a jelly roll of Let It Snow, but I still need 3 3/8 yards of background fabric to go with it, not to mention the 2 borders, so I am using Colleen to help me pick it out. I am sure Starbucks is on the menu also, and maybe a quick bite at Boudin. I am also hoping to get some sewing done, now that I have a sewing table. I should take a picture tomorrow and post it for all to see. Gran is on a wonderful trip/class, check out her blog, it has to do with the Crazy Quilt class that she and Kim will be teaching at BP Sept. 17 & 18. I am not sure if I will be able to take it, I will know more in a week or so. I hope there will still be room. Well, off to get ready for sleep, I wish all a wonderful and creative week-end! Hugs to all!

Grown Women Who Color

Last night was my class that Gran was teaching at BP&HH, Grown Women Who Color. I have been waiting for this class all year long. I had a blast! It was so much fun, and for someone who is not that creative, I was really enjoying myself. Gran is an excellent teacher, she has a natural talent for it! But, she is not very talented at "iron operations"! Quick explanation, she was trying to help Carol W. operate an iron, but they could not figure out what the issue was, until Lonnie asked if the iron was plugged in, and you guess it, it was not! We had a good giggle over that! Gran had us practice on a couple of things before we started on our "Masterpiece". We had 2 patterns to choose from, both by Crabapple Hill, one was Winter Wishes, and the other was Breath of Spring, which is the one I chose. I am going to have to get my patterns out at home to see which ones I can use the crayons with, since I was having so much fun. Please pardon my incomplete "Masterpiece", I will post another picture when I am done. Until then, color on!!!

Here's Another Little Something!

Tracy Suzanne at Cotton Picking Cute blogged about a great CHRISTmas giveaway at www.praireflowerfarm.blogspot.com. You need to check it out. I am really coming across of more wonderful and cute blogs this week-end, and don't forget to enter her giveaway. Enjoy!!


PS-I can't bear to remove my picture of George!!

A Quick Litle Something

Just a quick note, I have been enlighten about a cute blog with a wonderful giveaway, http://www.pickincotton.blogspot.com/. Check it out, she has wonderful taste and style! Thanks to Jenny Reynolds for blogging about it on her blog! Love ya Jenny!!

Thanks Goodness, Friday Is Almost Over!!!!

I am not going to discuss my job, my work or my boss, all I am going to say is that I am so-o-o-o-o happy that today is almost over. I finished my August wool penny for class tomorrow(I will post a picture tomorrow), I am playing at BP&HH tomorrow, so I can get lost and forget my problems in fabric, and I can not wait!!!!!!!! Monday evening is Knot-y Ladies, can't wait for that, we always have so much fun, and I don't even mind if Gran makes us do embroidery yoga!! A week from Monday is Gran's class, Grown Woman Who Color, and I cannot wait for that class either, I have all of my stuff ready for that class. Well, off to dreamland, and no I will not be dreaming of my job, my work or my boss, but of fabric, fabric and more fabric, and perhaps, George Clooney! wink, wink!

It's Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where does the time go, whew! It's already August, and next thing you know if will be October, then December, well, you get my drift! Work has been really busy. I had to drive down to Patterson, Newman and Gustine yesterday to visit clients, and I took the country road, I hate driving I-5, too many big rigs! I love to drive country roads, I love the horses, and cows, and sheep, the smell of alfalfa being cut. Looking at the beautiful fields that have been worked and tilled, but mostly the old buildings. I did not have my camera, but after my trip down there, hubby and I may be going for a drive this week-end. The weather has been beautiful and perfect, it felt like fall to me yesterday. I felt like I stepped backed into the 40's in these older, small towns, and the people were so friendly and nice. I can't wait to go exploring! But first, I need to get through Friday, and yes, today is not exception, a very busy day on tap, but I will get through it knowing that this week-end, there is no baseball, no playing at BP&HH, and housework pretty much kept up, so I will have time to explore! Here's wishing everyone a great week-end! Hugs!

A Few Comments......

We are finishing up our last Pacific Southwest Regional Baseball Tournament this week-end, so I won't be quite as busy. I did manage to read a few blogs to see how productive everyone has been. I am very proud of all of you! Stash Manicure is having her end of July giveaway, check it our, www.stashmanicure.blogpot.com. Kim is sharing her adorable completed embroidery, a vintage redwork Christmas pattern, which is available at BP&HH. www.kimsbigquilitingadventure.blogspot.com I have one also, of a little girl in the rain, which I hope to start soon. She has also completed her apron from her apron class that Gran's daughter in heart taught at BP, and I hear she will be publishing the pattern soon, and that also will be available at BP. Jenny Reynolds has posted her 2nd block in Daisy-Do, www.elefantz.blogspot.com. I am sure there are more out there, but this is all I got to this morning. We have four games today, and the championship game tomorrow, plus I am playing at BP&HH today, just 12-4, but that should be enough time for me to get into trouble! I hope everyone has a wonderful week-end! Hugs!!

Ahhhh, The Smell of Fall!

Yesterday was a very good day for me! I had to stop at Target for a few things, TP, laundry detergent, tissues, The Zac Brown Band CD-( I REALLY needed it!!), and school supplies were out and on sale. I signed up for Gran's class at BP&HH, Grown Women Coloring, in August, and I needed a box of crayons, the 64 count, so I picked up my box since they were on sale. The first thing I did, was open them up to smell them! I know, I must be weird, but I love the smell of a new box of crayons, ever since I was a little girl. It reminds me of Fall, Apple Hill, cooler nights, and the leaves changing! It has been hot here in the Sacramento Valley, so I really needed that thought! I am sure people were looking at me strangely, but I am also sure there were a few smiles. I know lots of people who do the same thing! I have 2 1/2-3 months for things to cool down here, so I will keep smelling my box every day! I can't wait to take Gran's class. Check it out at www.bearpawsandhollyhocks.com. Have an awesome day!

A Look Back At......

Tonight was Knot-y Ladies at BP&HH, and as usual, A LOT of catching up with everyone and such. Poor Gran was running a little late, one of her sons was flying in from BYU for a visit, and had plane trouble and had to stop in Las Vegas. (That's the story she is sticking too!! :-) ) We had some new ladies joining our group tonight, and they fit in just perfectly with us. We started explaining certain things that has happened over the last year in class, and had to explain it to the newbies, like last Christmas, when Colleen wrapped up her Christmas ornament for the exchange and forgot to put the ornament in the box she wrapped, and how red she was with embarrassment, and how we will never let her forget about it! (Love ya BFF!!!!) Or how Gran has a paddle like the nuns in parochial school, (or as Gran says, in the old country!) and uses it on us if we don't complete our assignments, like Gran gives us assignments! Or how Gran makes us exercise in class, embroidery yoga, we break such a sweat with that one! However, I do feel for Gran, because she has great class plans, but our class just does not give her a chance to share them with us. I am sorry, Gran, for not allowing you to conduct the class tonight the way you wanted. I do want to learn what you can teach us, so I promise, next class, I will bring duct tape. What color of duct tape would look good on Kim??!! Tootles!!

Whew! So Glad To Be Home!

I finally made it home, and it feels good. Now, to tackle the laundry! How can 1 person have so much dirty laundry! Napa was WONDERFUL!!!! I actually started looking and reading the real estate papers, if I could afford it, I would move! Life is so much laid back and easy going, but the people there DO work hard and they PLAY hard! I was named the Princess after the 1st day at the tournament, don't know why, but I was so spoiled by the guys over there. A great group, and they did a fantastic job. I go back Sunday for the championship game, and my son is umpiring that game, so it should be a blast. Afterwards, we are off to dinner somewhere, not sure yet, but I am told I will really enjoy it. I worked today, yuck, it was so hard coming back to this hot weather! I was blessed with high 70's and a constant breeze over in Napa. I get to play at BP&HH on Saturday, it seems like years since I have been there or seen/talked to anyone from there! On the bad news side, not much stitching was done by me, I was constantly going between the 3 ball fields making sure things were going smoothly and handling rowdy parents, but mostly grandparents! I have missed all of my friends locally and in blog world, I hope each and everyone of you are doing well. Take care and stay cool! Hugs!

Happy Independece Day!!

I want to wish each and everyone one of you a wonderful and safe Independence Day! I hope you are enjoying good friends and family, good food and good times!! As for me, hubby and I are in the start of Baseball Tournament Season. It started July 3rd and normally runs for 2 weeks, however this year we were awarded the 9 year old and 10 year old Pacific Southwest Regional, so we will not be done until July 31st! It is a lot of time and work, but we sure enjoy it, we have been doing this for 17 years! We have made a lot of wonderful friends along the way and enjoy watching the kids play. There is nothing like the smile of their face after a base hit or fly ball catch, or scoring a run! My favorite is the player who is just your basic player but tries so-o-o hard, and when they get that hit, you cannot wipe the smile off of their face for a week! Of course there are tears when they lose, however, they forget about the loss the next day, and start all over again! I am doing a little stitchery at the games, so that is very good for my soul! I also want to wish all of my Canadian friends a Happy Canada Day! I am very grateful for my family and friends and most importantly, my freedom and Independence!

Ladybug's Quilts is Back Open!!!!

Today, on my way home from Modesto, I needed to stop in Manteca for a couple of client visits, and well, I had to stop by Ladybug's! Jen had to close the store, but she sold it to 3 wonderful, kind, talented ladies, of whom I met 1 today, Sherry. We had a really nice chat about BearPaws and what is hot now, trends in the market, decorating the store, ect. The store is pretty much the same, but the ladies are adding their own touch, they have a long arm in one of the classrooms, and they are getting ready for their Official opening day on July 31st! Make sure you mark your calenders because I am positive it will be a BIG HIT!!! They are also on Facebook, and they are asking questions every couple of days to get feedback on what to offer in the store so check them out and help them. As for me, Tournament season has official started. Only 5 more manager's meetings, and we will be starting July 2nd and will be completed by July 17th. Then, I will be back, and hoping to get some stitching and sewing done. I will post any other adventures I have while in Napa. I know, I know, rough life, but I am still working!!! One last thing, I am not sure if anyone if following the College World Series, but my Hornfrogs are in it and playing so good!! I predict they will win it!! They have already beaten the #2 team to get there, and there is no stopping them now! GO FROGS!!!!!

My Dad

I am a daddy's girl, always have been, always will be! I am sorry this picture is blurry, but it is the only recent picture of me and my dad. I get to see him once a year but I talk to him every Monday, rain or shine and sometimes more in between if I need advice or just because I am thinking of him. My dad is 80, and it seems that each time I see him, he seems to be aging, which I know happens and it is a part of life, but my dad never seem to grow old to me. He has such a young and fun personality, the life of the party, quick to have a joke and the last to still be laughing at a silly joke! I see a lot of my dad in my son, and I enjoy listening when they talk to each other on the phone. My dad has made it a point to call his grandson every other week just to see what is going on in his life, and I am so thankful for that! Chris will take advice from his Papa, good sound advice from his experiences in his life, plus he has a relationship that he will cherish. Yep, my dad, he is a great man, and I KNOW that God broke the mold when he created him! Here's wishing a wonderful Father's Day to all of the dads out there!!!

What's Going On?

I have been super busy with my job, not much time for fun and frolics. I didn't get to have lunch this week with my BFF-Colleen, and I really did MISS that!! I haven't had much time to stitch either, as soon as I get home, I would just sink into the sofa and most nights fell asleep with in 15 minutes! We are also at the start of our tournament season with baseball, so almost every night these next couple of weeks, I will have to travel all over Northern California for tournament meetings, and to make sure that all of the teams tournament books are in order. Then comes 4th of July week-end, the start of the games. I am taking 1 week off in July to attend the tournament in Napa, not because of the location, (yeah, right!!) but because this is their 1st tournament and it is also our largest, and they requested my help. So, maybe I have my Drivers, Dine-ins and Drives list of places to eat ready, and my stitching projects ready to take with me. The only thing I will miss is my Knot-y Ladies and Wool Penny class for 2 months! Have a wonderful week-end!

Are you Ready????

As I sit at my laptop, drinking my Typhoo tea in my red pokadot mug, enjoying the cool, quiet morning, reading blogs, I ask you, my blogetts, are you ready? Or is it TOO early to think of the holidays? My blogging friend, Jenny Reynolds has turned me on to her friend, Judith of http://www.creativestudio10.blogspot/. She is hosting an Earlybird Christmas Crafting group starting June 1st thru September 3. Check her blog out, it sounds like a lot of fun and she is really creative on how she is running it, that even I can follow it. She has already emailed me a free pattern of hers, so all I need to do is to follow the very simple instructions. You can make your own projects and/or her projects she shares. Also, if you go Jenny's blog, she has a great idea on how to recycle old table scarves that she picked up at tag sales. I am really enjoying the quiet time of this morning. I am thinking of Gran, sitting at her kitchen table looking out her big window at her beautiful yard watching the sweet birds fly from feeder to feeder or sitting on her back patio enjoying her lovely garden . As for my garden, we have 3 types of tomatoes planted, including an heirloom-Cherokee Black, (which I cannot wait to make a tomato sandwich to eat!), plus Christmas Basil, Rosemary, and Curly Parsley. I also have several types of sunflowers planted, which should do well, since they like this heat we have here in the valley. Well, I need to get ready for my busy day, I am playing at BP&HH today, and since it is BOM Saturday, it will be extremely busy! Have a wonderful Saturday, and here is wishing you joy in all you do! Hugs!!

Lunch Date, Sanity Break!

I was not having a good day today, just was not in the mood for work, didn't want to talk to anyone, pretty much wanted to have a pity party with me, myself and I. Well, I made a few visits with clients and looked at my watch and remember that my BFF-Colleen is only 5 minutes down the road from the auto mall, and so I texted her to see if she brought her lunch, and as luck would have it, she did, and as luck had it a 2nd time, there was a park right around the corner from her office, so I went and picked her up and we went to the park. It was just what the doctor order. Whatever mood I was in was gone and spending time with Colleen. We both had salad, mine was green with cheese and bacon, and she had taco salad, plus I shared my watermelon. Since this worked out so perfectly, (minus the 3 little boys throwing rocks at our feet!) we are going to start meeting there every Tuesday! We both brought our stitching, but neither one of us got to it! I have to say that Colleen is the best shrink I have ever known!!!!

They Are at It Again!

Yes, let's just say, the town of Modesto was not prepared for Lucy and Ethel! I picked Colleen up at 9:20, first stop, liquid fuel at McDonald's, $1.00 for large ice teas/soda, (I know Starbucks is good, but why spend more when you can save and spend at a quilt store?!!). Them, off to The Elegant Stitch. I have been talking about this store to Colleen, and she has been wanting to see it, so we went. It is a Counted Stitch store, but they gave a wonderful selection of floss, wool and buttons that I cannot resist! They just started carrying the wool, Moda and Weeks, but a pretty good selection. They also carry a VERY large selection of Gentle Art and Week's floss, which I love Gentle Arts, but the selection of Week's is addicting, the muted variegated colors are so pretty and the possibilities are endless. The owner was so-o-o-o nice and so willing to help! She is also starting to carry Bird Brain Designs and is also planning stitching retreats. http://www.elegantstitch.com/. Next stop, Yesterday Books, a very large and clean used book store. Only problem, they were a little pricey! Next door to them was Joann's, Colleen need some fleece to make liners for her Guinea Pigs, who are so adorable! And I bought 3 patterns! They were $1.00, normally $15.95, but I am having a hard time finding cool tops for work in my size, so I thought I would make some simple ones. By this time we were famished, so we went to Fuddruckers for lunch, a do it yourself hamburger place, and they were delicious! We both waddled out and walked it off at Wal-Mart, Colleen needed cleaning stuff, and I looks at some summer tops, came out with 3! Next top was Hospice Thrift Store. I had seen this place, but never stop, it was very clean and nice, a little small, but fun to look through, but we were getting tired, or at least I was, so we stopped at Beverly's, all fabric 25% off, and looked around, well, I had a bit of a melt down there, so poor Colleen and I left. They would not accept a Joann's coupon, so I left the cut fabric in the basket and walked out! I think I was just getting really tired and hot by this time, so home we came, 4:30 pm. I also forgot to bring my camera! I hope you all have a wonderful week-end. Hubby and I are attended the Sammy Hager/Heart Concert tonight at Raley Field, for Walk/Rock for Kids. My job has a suite, and we have invited clients to attend with us, so it should be fun. Hugs!!

Lucy and Ethel Ride Again!

Saturday, Lucy and Ethel will be hitting the road. Ya'll in Modesto and cities near and far beware, we are out and about! We have been giddy like school girls in anticipation of our escapades! I will take the camera and lots of notes. Please tune in later this week-end for a full report, until then, enjoy your week-end!

A Jenny Give-Away

My favorite Aussie, (next to Keith Urban!), Jenny of Elefantz is having a wonderful giveaway. Check it out!! Also, if you do leave her a comment, please mention my name, we can share the prize!! As for me, when its Monday, its report day and today was no exception. Let's just say, it was a very l-l-l-o-o-o-o-o-n-n-n-n-n-n-g day! I finished all of my reports at 6:45 pm. To make things worse, this is quilt camp week at So Lake Tahoe, and this is the first year I was not able to go! ;-( I do wish all of my friends a wonderful time, and can't wait to see all they completed there. One thing made today bearable, this Friday is Gran's Tea and Stitch at BP&HH. I am not sure if I will be able to make it, but I am going to try. I may only be able to make it for a quick cup of tea, but it will be so worth it. I will have to see how the week goes. It's a long week-end for us here in the state, Memorial Day, and Saturday, Colleen, her daughter Kylie and I will be heading down to Modesto to check out The Elegant Stitch, that is if she is open. I need to find out tomorrow. I have much to do tomorrow, so I better go and get some much needed sleep. Sweet dreams to all!!

Quilt Market Blues

I have not been feeling well for the past few days, and I finally figured out why, I have a bad case of Quilt Market Blues! Oh, how I wish I could have gone! I have been reading all of blogs and looking at all of the pictures that my blogging pals have posted, and it is just getting worse! I may have to make plans for fall or next Spring, we will see, I will need to talk to Lindy. I can't wait for Gran to get home, so Kim and I can hear all of the inside scoop and also hear about all of the wonderful stuff there she got to see. For now, I think the only way of feeling better is to go play at BP&HH for the day and come home and sew. Yep, I think that is just what the doctor ordered! Have a wonderful week-end everyone!

PS-Can you tell any difference in my blog? I got a new laptop!! I love it, it is SO much faster that my old one! Life is good!

Ta Dah!

Here is my quilt top that I finished last night. The pattern Ballet Slippers, fabric is Aster Manor by Moda. As you can see, I need to practice my triangles, but that will come with practice. I also am finishing the binding on a Kay England quilt I did. The binding is taking forever!!! But I will get it done. I talked to hubby and he said I could go ahead and have Lindy order me a sewing table. Not really sure where it will go, but that is a BIG step for me getting my own sewing space. Work is really busy, and for that, I am grateful, but tired, not much energy to do any stitching when I am through with work, but C'est la vie! Tomorrow night is Knot-y Ladies, can't wait! I get to see my BFF-Colleen, not to mention Gran and Kim. I need to get back to sewing the binding, so good night, have a great week! Leta, I haven't forgotten you, just real busy. It will be sent this week, I promise, with an extra surprise for your trouble!!

Schnibbled to the Bone!

Yes, today was another day in Kim history! It was the day of her Schnibble's class, and to true Kim style, it was a blast! I just finished my quilt top from class, but my camera is out in my car, and I am really too tired to go outside to get it, so I will post a picture tomorrow. I will also post a picture of what Kim made us, a prize I won in class, and a couple of other goodies I received from some really good friends of mine who also attended class. Until then, I am going to BED, and SLEEP!! Kim, you really outdid yourself today, thank you , thank you, thank you for your creativeness and friendship! Until tomorrow!!!

Thelma & Louise Plus 1..............

No, it's not the Duggars, but Thelma and Louise and I! Off to the wild blue yonder, for adventures galore! I picked up Shirley first, and let me tell you, what a lovely yard and house she has! She truly has a peaceful and lovely view of beautiful flowers, trees and birds to enjoy with her cup of tea! Then off to pick up Kim, who had Soccer Son decorating her front yard for us when we got there! Her landscaping is doing real fine, and pictures just do not do it justice! Well, then we headed off to Rocklin to the Flower Farm. My GPS was acting up, but we found it without any issues or problems, and what an adorable place it was! It's hard to believe that a place like this is so close to us in Sacramento! Carol W. had told Kim and Shirley about it, and I will have to thank her at our next Knot-y Ladies class! Well, we promptly sat down on the patio and got a yummy lunch. What a sight we must have been, because all at once, all 3 of us took our camera's out to take a picture of our lunch! I could only imagine what the other customers must have thought! After we ate our delicious sandwiches and salads, we sat off to explore the property. There was a lake, water wheel, several places to sit and relax, pathways through their garden, a potting shed with gifts, (pictures to follow tomorrow of my treasures!), Bed & Breakfast on the back side of the property. Kim bought some plants for her yard, Shirley bought some potatoes to plant. Then, off to the Tin Thimble, where I purchases some wool and fabric, and we also walked around the nursery there, where we all came away with tomato plants! I purchased a Cherokee Purple and also a Christmas Basil plant. I can't wait for the basil-fresh pesto, tomato, basil, cheese salads, fresh basil in angel hair pasta, the choices are endless!! Then to the Quilter's Stash. I was kind of disappointed with their selection of fabric, but then again, every store has their own nitch, and this just wasn't my nitch. Then home. I am sure Kim and Shirley were tired. I hope I didn't scare them with my driving! ;-) I ran by BP&HH to pick up my wool kit for my wool penny class this Saturday, because I will not be able to attend. My hubby and I are heading over to Half Moon Bay for the day. I think our son may join us, we shall see. Well, my water is boiling for my tea, so off I go to stitch and drink since I can not sleep. And yes, its decaf tea! Hugs to all!!

PS-I just wanted to thank Kim and Shirley again for their friendship and kindness. God has really blessed me with wonderful friends who I can laugh and cry with and you two are the BEST!! I can always "Depend" on you two for a good time!!!

The Big Day Before....

Yep, I am taking double vitamins, 2 extra naps and going to bed early. Why? I had a date with Thelma and Louise tomorrow, AKA-Kim and Shirley. Since I am on vacation, and it has been awhile since we have done anything together, we thought it might be a good idea. Only downfall, Colleen-AKA-Lucy, isn't off work, so she won't be able to hang out with us, but I am sure she will be with us in spirit! All I know is that I am picking Shirley up first, then Kim, and then off to the Flower Farm in Rocklin for lunch. www.flowerfarminn.com After that, who knows where we will end up! I am looking forward to a fun filled, relaxing lunch with good friends! I will take my camera for pictures to let you know how it turns out. I checked it out on their website and I cannot wait! As for my own quilting camp, I have been working outside in the yard mostly, fighting my allergies, and a lot of laundry. I have been washing comforters and quilts that we use, since we have been having such beautiful spring weather for them to dry outside. Hope you all enjoy the beautiful Spring weather where ever you may live! Hugs!!

The Envelope Please..........................

So I had hubby pick 2 names before he left this morning, and he let them in my tea cup. The winners are Lesthook and Colleen. Lesthook, please email me you address so I can mail you your prize, the Paper Piecing Book which you mentioned. Colleen, you and I will hook up so I can give you your prize. I am hoping to hang out with Gran and Kim this week, so I will take my camera. I also hope to get some sewing done, I have NUMEROUS UFO's out, and ready to get finished. Have a great week!!

A Day Late and A Dollar Short

I was to say I am sorry for being late. One of my clients had passed away unexpectedly and his services were yesterday. They were a couple of hours away from my home, but I felt along with my manager that we should attend, he was a very sweet and funny man, and we were sad to hear about his passing. Anyway, I am back and I have posted my 2 giveaways. The fabric is a custom fabric that a quilt store in Turlock had made, the store is Cloths and More. Susan is a sweetheart at that store! There is also a travel bar of my favorite soap that Lindy from BP&HH got me hooked on, and she also carries the line. It's made from goat's milk, and the lavender scent is so light and clean, and my skim feels so-o-o soft afterwards, but the real reason I love it so much, is that it leaves no soap film and it is a hard milled soap, so it last forever!!!! Ok, here are the rules, 1 entry for leaving a comment and which package you would like. 2 entries for posting it on your blog!! I think that is simple enough. I will post the winners on Monday morning-since I will be on vacation next week. Yes, I am having my own little quilt camp at my house with moi! Have a wonderful Friday, and a beautiful Springy day!!!

It's Almost Here!!!

Thursday, will be my first blogaversary. So, I am having a giveaway, but more about that in a minute. Gran at www. knot-yemrbroiderylady.blogspotcom is celebrating her 1st blogaversary also, and she is having , pardon the pun, a GRAN giveaway!! You have got to check it out. As for me, I will be having 2 give aways. Why, I just cannot make up my mind. All I can tell you now, is I have 2 books, and some fabric-of course, and a couple of surprises. I will post a picture on Thursday, and will pick a winner on Sunday, May 2. So please tune back in! Until then, we are having more rain today, so I am heading out in my rain suit! Hopefully the garden will enjoy the bath! Have a wonderful, dry Springy Day!! Hugs!!

It's Almost Here.................

Sound the alarm, toot those horns, alert the media, April 29th is the BIG day! It will be my one year Blogaversary. I cannot believe it has already been a year, and I have made some many new friends and found so-o-o-o many wonderful blogs to read and be inspired by. So, I will be having a drawing, a little bit of embroidery and a little bit of quilting with some embellishment thrown in, so stay tune!!!

The REAL Knot-y Ladies of Sacramento

Yep, last night was the new season, or new year of Knot-y Ladies at BP & HH. Gran was back, fresh from the East Coast and ready to go. I think she had a little bit of jet lag, poor thing! All of the usual characters were back with a couple of new ones, so I think we are off to a grand start. We had some yummy goodies, and caught up with what everyone is doing, so I think we are well on our way to another wonderful, and fun year of stitching!! Gran didn't even make us do yoga, so you know she had to be exhausted!! I didn't take any pictures but I will get some next time. My BFF, Colleen and her daughter are proud owners of 2 new guinea pigs, and their names are Lily and Skittles. Unfortunately, Skittles has an upper respiratory infection and is not feeling very well. They are taking it back to the vet, poor little thing! We do love our pets, they are like family members. It is pouring rain right now, and lucky me, gets to go out in it!! I much rather call in sick, lite the fireplace and stitch, but not today. Have a wonderful and dry spring week!!

Wool, Wool, Wool

Yep, this is what I have been up too lately besides my everyday job. I found 1 blazer, and 3 wool skirts, and with Kim's encouragement, I picked them apart and felted them myself at home. I don't think my right hand has recovered just yet, but I am nursing it with heat and ice. But I now have a very big assortment of felted wool, just waiting to be used in a project. I was pretty happy with my purchases, the skirts were $1.99 each and the blazer was $5.00. I will tell you, the blazer was a Ralph Lauren, and it killed me to take it apart, and the beige skirt was an Evan Picone, and the only reason I am mentioning this, is that they were both a pain to take apart. They were very well made!!! But now, I have a feel of how to do it and what to look for, so I am excited to continue my search! Hope everyone has a wonderful week,, Happy Spring to all!!

Got Kool-Aid??

Yes folks, last Saturday things were happening at BP & HH. Ms. Kim Powers was teaching another one of her famous classes, and I, one of her lucky groupies got to attend. The picture posted is 1 of the 3 kits she offered. She also gave us some tips on where to purchase our wool, thrift stores, how to felt it ourselves and also how to dye it with Kool-Aid!! She even demo the technique in class, with grape Kool-Aid. I thought it was amazing how the wool takes the color and the water is clear. She also feed us, (probably hoping we would not talk too much!!) with a delicious pasta salad and green salad that were both yummy. She also gave us a goodie bag with pins, needle, pencil and a candy filled egg, and also 2 packs of Kool-Aid, so we can try dyeing wool at home ourselves. We had a great group of ladies, (and soon to be groupies I am sure!) there. I cannot wait for Kim's Schnibble class in May. Check out her website for more pictures and class listing, Kim's Big Quilting Adventure. Gotta run, enjoy the beautiful weather where ever you are!

Early Easter Greeting

I found this picture and wanted to share with all of you! I hope you all have a wonderful Easter!!

Hugs!!

48 Hours and Counting......................

Until Saturday, when I get to attend Kim's class at BP&HH, Baa Baa Black Sheep. I cannot wait!!! I have been waiting so long, and Kim has really created some adorable projects for us! I mainly want to hear her tips on wool and felting the wool at home, myself. I will try to remember to take pictures, (minus Kim!) and post them for those who are not able to attend her class. I think Kim should take her classes on the road, like a rockband's tour. She has a ton of groupies!!! Until then, have a wonderful Thursday!!

Hugs!!

PS-Go to the paintedquilt.blogspot.com. Kaaren has posted her First Friday Freebie 1 day early and it is adorable!!!!!!!!

Catching Up

Sorry its been so long, but I have been so-o-o busy. Friday, I was very lucky to attend Time for Tea at BP & HH. Gran did a fine job, as usual, with her lovely tea wear, and the ladies who attended did a great job with the treats! We had quiche-yummy, biscotti-yummy, cookies, lemon bars, See's candy-all yummy! If I forgot anything, I am sorry, too many yummies to eat! The company was even better. I am hoping that I will be able to attend next month. Hubby and I left that night for Windsor, north of San Francisco, Sonoma County, for opening day ceremonies for Cal Ripken Baseball. It just made sense to us to leave the night before, instead of having to get up at 6 am to leave the day of ceremonies. We were tired when we got there, but we both got a great night of sleep in a VERY comfy bed, (I recommend Hampton Inns!!) enjoyed a yummy breakfast at the hotel and off to the ball fields. The fields looked great, and the people were so generous and kind. We really enjoy the Windsor league. We are already looking forward to next year! We stopped by another ballpark, Rohnert Park, to watch a game, got a bite of lunch and then home. We were pretty tired. So, I took a nice hot bubble bath, and then retired under my comforter to watch one of my favorite movies, "A Room With A View". I actually fell asleep, good thing, because the next day I was hanging out at BP & HH for Lindy's Open House, or Gathering of Quilters. Kim was there with her class samples, as was Gran, and the other teachers. I got to visit with some of the ladies and had a great time. Lindy always does a nice job, with yummy treats for everyone to taste. Then off to meet hubby and son to do grocery shopping, then home where I finally put my feet up, and you guessed it, feel asleep on the sofa! This Saturday, is Kim's Baa Baa Black Sheep class, that I have been anxiously waiting for! Anyone who has taken any of Kim's classes know, we always have a blast. Need to get back to work, have a great week!!

24 Hours Away....and Counting!!!

Yep, 24 hours away, until heaven! Time for Tea at BP & HH. I cannot wait. I am having a hard time on deciding what to take to stitch on, although I hear that last time, some who brought stitching, never got to it, they were having way too much fun sipping tea, munching on Gran's treats and great conversation, with some giggling sprinkled through out. I already put fresh batteries in my camera, so I don't forgot to capture those moments to share with everyone. I am very grateful that Gran is not making us wear gloves! I could not imagine trying to stitch with gloves on! Have a wonderful Springy Day!!

Hello Bloggetts!

Hope everyone is having and enjoying the beautiful Spring weather. I know here in Northern California is has been awesome!! I haven't been blogging, since all I have been doing is working, working, and working, and by the time I get done for the day, I am just exhausted. I will try to make some time for more relaxing things, like stitching and reading my fellow bloggett's blogs. On the week-end, if I am not working, I have been at the ball park for opening days. Last week-end, we went to Oakley and Concord. We had a blast at both! On the way home, we stopped at Isleton, who was playing games. We had wonderful weather for it all! This week-end, we are heading up to Windsor, north of Santa Rosa, and I am really looking forward to it! It is so beautiful and the people are so nice and laid back. April 10th is our last opening day, and it is in Napa. We were given a place to stay, so that will make it really nice! I don't have to get up at 4 am so we can get there by 8 am. I am sure my hubby is even happier since he won't have to deal with a very grouchy wife! I have the perfect way to start off our week-end, I have Time for Tea with Gran at BP & HH, and I cannot wait!! I will try to get some pictures. Until then, hugs to all!!

St Patty"s Day

Well, better late than never! Here's hoping you all had a wonderful St Patrick's Day, enjoyed some wonderful, luscious corned beef and cabbage, and found a pot a gold at the end of your rainbow! As you can see from the picture, I certainly did, NUK, NUK, NUK!!!!

Frustration!!!

The week-end was going really good. Saturday I had class at BP & HH, wool penny, and as always, we have so much fun. Lindy has gotten a ton on new fabric in! I can deal with the time change, although this one is harder to adjust for me, but I will adjust. My sewing machine is the issue, or should I say frustration! Maybe it is getting back at me for neglecting her for awhile, but I am afraid it will need to go to the doctors. It just will not move! I have taken it apart, cleaned it, oiled it, nothing. I was trying to finish Colleen's totebag so I could give it to her tomorrow for Knot-y Ladies, but I don't think that is going to happen. I do need to put together a white elephant gift for Knot-y Ladies. Tomorrow night is the last night of our 12 month class. We will be starting up a new session in April, in fact, Gran has I think 4-5 more Knot-y Ladies classes. She is quite the popular one! I asked her if we need to bring gym clothes for PE!! On a different note, my blog/friend, Anna, quiltmomsjourney.blogspot.com has a very lovely and heartwarming essay about her grandfather. It is quite interesting and really touched my heart. Anna is very talented with her writing skills,(quilting and beading skills also!) and I always enjoy reading her blog. I hope those in the US remembered to Spring ahead, and I am looking forward to longer days with blue skies and sunshine! Have a wonderful week, my friends!! Hugs!

What's Been Going On?

I know it has been awhile since my last post, and I am sorry. My job has been a lot demanding with my time. SO much, I just had to take a day off today. I have been fighting a sinus headache at night, and I finally got some good sleep, but really just didn't want to deal with the job today. Yesterday, I had a meeting at my corporate office, which means a visit to BP&HH would be a must. Lindy and Mona were working, and Gran was teaching a class. Gran is getting quite a big group of Knot-y Ladies!!! I bought a Schnibbles pattern, Ballet Slippers, and I also bought all of the fabric needed to complete it. The fabric line is by Moda, Aster Manor. I just love the colors. Not sure when it will get made, but at least I have my own kit ready to go! I am finishing up Colleen's Birthday tote, and I should have a picture of it posted by Monday. We finally have sunshiny skies today, but cool temps. I can handle the cool temps, I just want to see blue skies and sunshine!! The trees are budding, the crocus' blooming and I think Spring is on its way. Here's wishing everyone a Spring-Sunshiny Day!! Hugs!!

Whew, I Have Been Busy!!

Sorry it has been awhile since I have blogged, but my job has kept me really busy. I have been in the midst of doing A LOT more report and analyzes for the upper mucky mucks. It seems that I missed Thelma and Louise yesterday in Chico and Marysville. It seems though they had a great time minus the car issue. I will have to follow up on that with them. I have been getting some stitching in. I am working on the binding of my first quilted quilt. I know I should not be intimidated, but I am. I found a great tutorial online at www.moosequilts.com. As they say, its so easy, a caveman, (cave woman) can do it! We shall see. I am also working on finishing Colleen's birthday present. I did a stitching for her of Sunbonnet Sue and friend with a saying about friendship, and gave her the choice of a wall hanging or tote bag, and she chose the tote bag. So I am working on that along with my other stitching projects. I hope to have some pics posted soon. At least today with have a day of sunshine and no rain, for which I am very grateful for! Enjoy the day!!

Reno Nevada Trip

This past week-end, hubby and I headed to Reno Nevada for our annual Cal Ripken Baseball Conference, that we attend every Feb. We had a great time with all of the folks from the Pacific Southwest area. We get updated with headquarters, new rules and changes in rules, go over tournament sites, new procedures and policies, tournament draws, hear whats going on in every one's area. It really is a fun conference. I had plans to go see the Gee Bend Quilters exhibit, except for the fact, I came down ill with a really nasty headcold, and as you can see from the pictures, 1 1/2 feet of snow fell while we were there, so I thought I should stay inside, in fact, I did sleep quite a bit, which was probably the best thing for me. I am feeling a bit better, just a little worn down, but I am on the upside of mending which is a really good thing. I do not do well being sick, I can't stand being held down for nothing! I am hoping the exhibit comes to the Sacramento area, we shall see. For now, its time for another nap in between doing reports for work. I hope everyone is doing well and having a good week! Until then, hugs!!!

Gee Bend Quilters

This week-end, hubby and I have to attend our annual conference for Cal Ripken Baseball in Reno, Nevada. I know, life is rough, however, the silver lining for me, is that this past Wednesday thru April 11th, at the Reno Museum of Art, they have the Gee Bend Quilt exhibit, so guess what I will be seeing. I am so-o-o-o excited to have the chance to see this exhibit. I have read about the Gee Bend Quilters, read testimonies on blogs, and in magazines, but nothing in person. I am hoping to be able to take some pictures, so keep your fingers cross and check back next Monday for a report. In the meantime, during the conference, I will be stitching and listening. Have a wonderful week-end everyone!!

What's Up?

Not much new here in Orca land. Work is work, and I am sure by now, everyone is tired of hearing about my job. So, I thought I would share something about my favorite dog, Orca. This morning, while drinking my morning tea, he was watching me through the sliding glass door, as he does every morning. Except, this morning, he was looking particularly cuter than normal, so of course that means an extra treat. Well, he took the treat, and walked around the patio and yard, just letting it rest in his mouth. He finally walked over to the other side of the fireplace, and all I could see was his tail and rear end. I knew exactly what he was doing, he was seasoning his dog treat, AKA-burying his bone! He then turned around and looked at me, and this is what I saw, (see picture). A nice big clump of mud on his cute nose, and of course, Orca looking at me like, "What, what are you looking at? What did I do?" I just hugged him and went on my merry way to get ready for work. Don't we love our dogs??

Busy Week

Yes, it has been a very busy week for me, and I am sure with everyone else. My job is my top priority right now, so not much time for stitching and fun stuff, which I am sad to say. I know I need to nitch some time in my schedule for me and for my stitching, but after such a l-o-o-o-ng
day, it has been hard to mustard up the time. But it will get better!! My long awaited box of veggies and fruits showed up yesterday, and when I got home, late last night, I was pleasantly surprised and delighted! I immediately cleaned the veggies and got them ready to include them in our meals. Both hubby and son were very pleased with our "goodie" box, and hubby even commented that he does not think this will last us past a week. We originally signed up for every other week, so I most likely will be changing that this week-end. I am also sharing the box with my mom, who is on a limited income as most seniors, but mainly because I want her to eat more healthy and fresh veggies and fruits, with out the pesticides. I have a good friend who lives north of Sacramento in Yuba City that has 3 kids, and each child has their own raised garden that they are responsible for. Her husband and his father also raise bees and harvest Organic Honey, and she is bringing me a couple of jars. What a treat, I cannot wait! I am especially excited, because I saw someone make a Carmel sauce out of honey, and I am dying to try that! I can only imagine how yummy that will be, and I am also looking forward to sweetening my hot tea with some of her honey. Well, off to work, have a wonderful Thursday! I am looking forward to this week-end, for I get to play at BP & HH and I also have my wool penny class with Gran! What a double treat!! Hugs to all!

Reports, Reports, Reports

Today was report day, and not only the normal reports that I am required to complete each Monday, but an additional 2 more reports! My eyes are so tired from working on the laptop, that I am sorry to say, I am not able to do any stitching tonight! That does not make me happy, because I was looking forward to doing some stitching. I was not able to do any yesterday due to the Superbowl game being such an exciting game. I did try to do some stitching, but every time I would stitch, something exciting would happen on the TV, so I finally gave up and just watch the game. Last year for Mother's Day, hubby made me a light box, but he made it really too high. He had good intentions, he thought that the higher it was, the less bending I would have to do. Sadly, it was not good for tracing, because the light was not close enough to show through the fabric to trace the pattern. So, he cut the box down, in half exactly, and now, it is perfect! I actually have an extra frame for another light box, minus the plexiglass and light, but my son's girlfriend, who is quite artistic, has taken ownership of it. She has always wanted a light box to enlarge pictures, and was quite impressed with the box hubby made me, so I think it has found a new home. My son has some extra plexiglass for the top, and she is getting the light. Well, my eyes are ready to close, so I am saying good night. Have a great week everyone!

Fresh Farm To You

Hubby and I were watching a show on California Organic Farms, and they were talking about a service called, Fresh Farm to You. There is an organic farm in the Capay Valley that will bring you a box of fresh, organic fruits and veggies to your door, whether you want it weekly, every 2 weeks or monthly. We both looked at each other and said, "Hey, that is for us!!". So, I went online, and signed up. They come to Galt every Wednesday, and they have a variety of sizes and selections. We chose the small fresh fruits and veggies, and for $23.00, we get a very large selection of seasonal organic fruits and veggies, just enough for us with no waste!! We chose to receive it every other week, just to see how it works. We can always change our schedule, and you know what, we are both pretty excited about it. This will really help us to eat healthier, and it will cost about the same if not less than what I have been spending with a lot less waste. I will let you know when we get our first shipment next Wednesday. As far as this week-end, I am finishing up Colleen's birthday gift. I also went through my UFO's and I am going to try to get one done this week. I also have a tote bag ready to put together. I have already made one for myself, last year, but I wanted to make one for my hubby's Cal Ripken secretary for our annual conference that we will be attending in a couple of weeks. Also, Super Bowl is this Sunday, but we will be having a very quiet game, just hubby and I. Son is going to a party, but that is ok. We will enjoy the game just the same. Are you doing anything for Super Bowl, and who are you rooting for?

Miss My Kimmy!!

In case you haven't heard or read, Kim is out for 2 months. I received a call from Carol at BP to let me now that Kim's class Saturday has been cancelled and reschedule for April 3rd. How am I going to survive without my Kimmy? I have coffee with her, (I mean her blog) every morning, I will be at a lost. Now I have that out of my system, I want to say that I hope Kim is healing and getting better everyday, and she will be back in no time. I can still see her and talk to her, but like a lot of you, I started my day off with reading her blog. So, I think we all need to head over to her blog and wish her a speedy recovery. In fact, they do say that prayer is a powerful thing, so how about everyone saying a prayer for her speedy recovery and she will be back even faster! Take care my dear Kim!!

What's Going On?

I have been asked this question by several people in the past couple of days. What's going on in my life right now. Mainly from a quilting/stitching point. I have a couple of Schnibble patterns that I want to make, and I even signed up for the Schnibble monthly program through Sinta's blog, but I haven't started them. I have been working on a birthday present for you-know -who, and also on a challenge that Gran gave us Knot-y Ladies. I also am continuing working of Happy Hauntings, from CrabApple Hill. I have 3 houses done now. I have several UFO's started that I am trying to complete in accordance to Gran's challenge, 10 in 2010. I have class this Saturday at BP&HH, Baa Baa Black Sheep, by the famous teacher, Kim Powers. I can't wait. She shares her wealth of knowledge and tips on wool, felting our own, and a couple of patterns along with a kit to make of her patterns. As always, these classes of Kim are the best I have ever taken, not to mention you certainly get a lot more than the cost of the class. She is very, very generous, and since she is such a good cook, she even feeds us. Now, I am hoping that the week flies by so Saturday gets here even sooner! What have you been up to?

A Day of Rest, Well, Sort of.......

Yes, I was raised that Sunday was a day of rest. And for the most part, it is in our household. However, today, hubby surprised me with a date to the movies, and the movie we saw was "Edge of Darkness". I have always been a Mel Gibson fan, and every time in the past when he had a new movie coming out, we always saw it that first night. Things are a bit different now, so we waited for the early show, since the prices are less. All I am going to say about the movie, besides it being great, was that it is an intense movie. Then, we headed home for lunch and some more stitching on my part. I need to take some pictures, except for one of the projects, I cannot show. It is my BFF's birthday present, and since she reads my blog, that will have to wait. I will take some pictures this week. I also have been checking for fruit trees to plant. We are hoping to plant 3 in our backyard, and move around some of the containers of plants we have to a better spot. We walked around our yard, front and back discussing this, and even making a little map for us to use. We will see how this works for us, since this is the first time we have ever done this. We even got to spend some time with our son, who seems to spend more time at his girlfriends house than ours, but that is life, and sadly, we are getting use to this. Tomorrow, report day for me, hopefully, it will go fast! Because, this Saturday is Kim's class at BP&HH, and I of course signed up for it, and cannot wait for it!! I am not sure if there are any openings but you can always call BP and ask. Until then, have a great night, back to watching the Grammys!

Their BACK!!!!!

I am sorry if this is "TMI", but it would explain why I am writing this at this time. It's been a couple of months since I have had hot flashes, but it seems they are starting up again, and with a vengeance!! Instead of fighting them, I am coping with them, and that means a BIG glass of ice water, and reading blogs! Gran had her first Time for Tea at BP, and she let me know it went well. I wanted to join her, but it was month end. I did almost stop by on my way home from Sutter County, but felt I should head on down to Elk Grove since I still had time in the day and continue my visits to clients. I will be joining her next month! I did come home and fix a cuppa for me, it did the trick, it just wasn't as fun as being with other stitchers! My plans for this week-end, well, my mom's car needs new brakes, so I am following her to my son's work, and he is putting new brakes on for her, and instead of her waiting there, we are going out to breakfast at Mimi's, our favorite place! Then I need to get home to work on an extra project that Gran gave us, (as always, this is an optional assignment, I got the disclaimer in for ya Gran!!!) of making a book cover out of fabric, but drawing on it a "Crazy Quilt" design, and use different embroidery stitches, no embellishments or fabric, just our stitches. I am not sure what size, but I think it is a wonderful idea, and what a great way to practice our stitches and make a sample of them! I am thinking of making my the size of an average paperback book. I was thinking a journal, but since I would have to go buy a journal instead of using whats on hand, I will probably make due with an simple paperback book. It would make my current read a little more interesting that just a plain paperback book, don't ya think? What are you plans for this week-end! Happy stitching to all!!

Guess Who's Back??

Guess who is back on blogspot? Gran!!! She threw in the towel. Check her out at www.knotyladies.blogspot.com. Not much has gotten done around here, work is calling, its month's end, so a little busy. Can't wait for the week-end. I did do some clearing out last night, and hubby and I are trying to figure out why we have 7 yellow pages for the same town??? Are they like rabbits, and they multiply when left alone in the cabinet? We really do not use them that much, we usually use the Internet, it is much more faster and up to date. Our recycling can is going to be very heavy this week, thank goodness they use an arm on the truck to empty the bins! Well, off to work I go, have a great Thursday!!

Month End

It is getting towards Month's end, which for me is a very busy time with my job. Loans need to get funded so the car dealers get their money before they close out their books for the month. It is a little hairy/carry, however, it means I am still employed. I may complain and gripe but I am thankful to have my job! I have been stitching most nights, and I am almost finished with my next block of the Gail Pan design I am working on. There are 4 blocks in all, and each block is a garden scene. I am really excited to see it coming together, which in turn, helps motivates me to getting the stitching done faster! I am hoping to finish the last of the flowers in the wheelbarrow tonight, so I can start on the 3rd block. I will see about getting some pictures to post for you. This will have to be a short note, need to hit the road. Hope you all have a wonderful "Hump" day, and remember, Friday is only 2 days away, then its the week-end!!! YIPEE!!!!

Those Darn Computers!!

Our computer has been on the fritz lately, so I am using my work laptop. I just hope what ever the issue is with our personal computer is, won't happen to my work laptop. Our girl's night out Friday was a blast! Colleen, her daughter Kylie( 9yrs old), Kim and Shirley and myself met at a Starbucks by Colleen, and just chatted and had coffee, or tea, and some yummy cookies that Kim brought us from their dinner outing. It was so nice, and low key, a perfect way to start off the week-end. Saturday, I didn't do much, except I cleaned house in the morning, and took 2 naps, due to a nasty sinus headache. I'm surprised that the Weather Channel didn't call me regarding the barometric pressure in our area!! Sunday, I played with Paulette at BP & HH. It was good hanging out with Paulette, she is such a talented quilter, and I really did learn a lot just in those 4 short hours. I came home and stitched the night away. I have been getting more sleep lately. Hubby says its because I am getting older! I worked out of my house today as usual, except, no time to take out for stitching, darn! However I did find a really quick and easy recipe for the crock pot that I made today for dinner, and it is really good! I had my official taste tester try it, AKA-my mum! It's called Cowboy Dinner.
Brown 1 1/2 lbs ground beef, (I used ground turkey breast), drain.
Place 1 medium onion chopped in the bottom of your crock pot, layer the drained ground meat on top. Slice 6 medium potatoes, layer on top of meat, sprinkle 1 clove of minced garlic, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of tomato soup and and sprinkle 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of pepper. Cook on low for 5-6 hours. I also added 1 can of diced tomatoes with peppers/green chilies. Delish!! Perfect for our cold raining evening that we have. That's all for now, hope everyone is doing well!

Who is this woman?

No, this is not me, although I may feel like her expression! After another rainy day out making client calls, I came home, cold and wet! I immediately put the tea kettle on, changed into sweats, and had a nice, hot cup of Earl Gray tea! I felt so much better. I dried off Orca and brought him in, and he promptly went in our bedroom onto his blanket at the foot of our bed, and so I went in there also. I figured, I needed to go through some fabric for a project I was doing. I picked out the fabric, and turned the TV on to see what was TIVO'd that I might want to watch, well, of course, Mrs. Potter was the perfect ticket. So off to the kitchen I went to make another cup of tea, but since I was watching Mrs. Potter, I decided to have a cup of Typhoo tea, at least its British. After awhile, I must have fallen asleep, because I felt a wet sniffy nose in my face, which meant someone needed to go outside, so I took Orca out and went back to kitchen to decide what to make for dinner. Hmmm, Salisbury Steak and Noodles Romanoff. In other words, hand patted patties with Beefy Onion dry soup mix added, and egg noodles, sour cream, garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cold, wet winter night. Now, the kitchen is cleaned up, and I am sitting down to stitch. Here's wishing everyone a warm winter's night!!

PS-Tomorrow night is Girl's Night out with Gran, Kim and Colleen, I can not wait!!!!