Last Day of the Year!

Today is the last day of the year. I started out with walking. We stayed in the area because of the frost. After the walk I went out and took photos of the frost.

It was a little icy, so we didn't walk around the golf court.

Phil came over and changed his oil in his car. Then we headed to the theater to see STAR WARS again. I remembered a lot of it. Saw a few changes. Didn't think Carrie looked bad. Everyone ages differently. She was just a surprise to most, I think. We haven't seen her in years and to see her in this movie was a little surprise. She does look like her mother though.

We then came home and enjoyed about 45 mins of peace. We met our Wednesday night bowling partners at Applebee's. Had a good meal, then headed over to bowling. The bowling alley was crowded with kids all over the place. It was really busy. We had some interesting times with the kids next to us bowling while we were. Fred finally told them what bowling "manners" are of waiting on the other person to bowl. We were done early and had a good time.

Yesterday I bought a portable file container and when I tried to put my "keepers" in it, it didn't fit. I thought it would. I was told they fit in the file size boxes. Guess I was wrong. So, I'll use the box for something else. I need to figure out where to get the box I need for my Brazilian floss. I'll see what they used on Monday.

So, today was more going then doing. I was hoping to work on my cross stitch today but I should know better - never plan! Tomorrow we will be at mom and dads. Thinking I won't be working on much for another day....and I'm really in the mood to work on something!! UGH I'm good, I'll get there yet....Happy Quilting!

Bowling Wednesday....

Today I got up and went walking. After I got back, Patrick was up and ready to go to the casino. We had some money on our card and he wanted to use it for the year. We spend a couple hours there and were luckier than we have been.

Came home and I went downstairs to work on the second pillow case for Katt. She wanted two pillow cases to go with the quilt.

I finished it up and sent her a photo.

This is the two pillow cases for the quilt. Both fabrics are used in the quilt. I added that with the quilt. I also put the black strips in there for the binding. It's all ready. I just need to quilt it.

After that we sat and enjoyed some time to sit. Then it was off to bowling. I didn't do so good, dropped another pin in average. I was doing good but the strikes and spares where not coming fast.

So not much got done, I'm going to work on the cross stitch tomorrow - I'm hoping. Depends on what the day will bring. I've been known to change my mind! Happy Quilting!

Changed My Mind - Another Project Done!

Today I slept a little later then usual. We walked at 8 am this morning. Didn't get much sleep. Not sure if my brain was "excited" about what to work on next or if I just couldn't get to sleep. I am still reading "THE HELP."

Got back home and Patrick was still sleeping. I didn't get moving till about 11 am. Started laundry (which I forgot about till just now!).

Heated up the fireplace downstairs. Decided I would go downstairs and work on Katt's quilt top. It needed a border and then it would be ready to quilt. Decided it was time I "suck it up" and finish it. I usually don't care for doing borders - let alone sewing on the machine. Once I got started I was happy! It didn't go as bad as I thought it would. I cut the fabric.

I sewed the first two strips together. This was 1 1/2" black with 2 1/2" orange. This is Katt's quilt, and she wanted orange in it.

Had a pile coming up behind the machine. It was going along great.

Had the black ready for the last border.

Next was the mitered borders. Not my favorite thing to do! I did pretty good this time. I usually take out a much as I put in. This time I only took them out twice. It was like always - the last mitered corner. Think the fabric knows I want to get it over with. Next thing I know, it's off or didn't get put on right. So, the frog showed up on this one! I was ripping it out. I stayed calm and collected so it went really well.

Then it got done! I put it on the bed downstairs and took a photo to send to Katt. Since it's her quilt I wanted to see if that was what she wanted. Apparently it was.

Even made a king size pillow to go with it. Plus I store it all in the bag till I get it ready for quilting. I need to finish the one on the frame downstairs before I can get this one on the frame. That should be a good reason to go down there and work on that quilt. I was looking at it the other day, so who knows, I may go back down there to quilt for a while. Showed Katt the pillow case and she asked if I could do another one. Told her I don't have the same white fabric but do have another that was in the quilt that I cold do. She was okay with that because they will match as far as the orange and black go. So, I'll work on that tomorrow.

Funny how fast I'm going through the black fabric at this rate. I have another quilt top I'm working on with black as well. I was going to do the half triangles while working on this, but didn't get there. I'll work on that one later.

It took me all afternoon to get this done. Patrick was a sweetheart and cooked dinner so I could finish the pillow case.

I can't complain - it only took me 6 months to get this done. Not bad with my record! While I was doing the pillow case I was watching the news. They found the kid that killed 4 people and his mother and him ran to Mexico....well my thought (forgive me) was.....there is nothing in this world my kids could do that would have me spend 10 years in prison. Sorry...I love my kids dearly but if they did something wrong they need to take the consequences.

Today was going to be a day of cross stitch, applique or embroidery. I did not plan on finishing this quilt. I was thinking about it in the shower this morning and thought it would be a good thing if I finished yet another project before the year ended. I'll have to wait till tomorrow for the cross stitch or applique. Oh, well....not like I'm not doing anything! (smiling)

Things are getting done and I'm Happy Quilting!

Finished One More Project This Year!

Today I was able to stay in bed a little longer. Ruth went to the ER to check on her arm. Her arm was black. She apparently broke a blood vessel.

I enjoyed a quiet morning. Then in the afternoon I decided to get to work on the "Harvest Wreath" embroidery.

I finished it this afternoon, just before Patrick got home. I added the beads to flowers on the right. I learned another stitch. Actually I modified the stitch for the acorn. It turned out better than I thought it would. Now I just need to wash it.

I added my initials to the piece. I wanted it hidden. I like to have my "signature" on my pieces.

So most of it is under the flower. If and when this gets framed, it will be hidden. It will be a surprise to the person that take the frame off and does "whatever."

I was having so much fun! I even put stuff in my box for when I start up again with embroidery. Our next meeting is one the 8th. Wonder if I will start before that. I put the kit that Phil and Emily gave me at Christmas in the box. I also found a could small quick designs that I may do instead. There is a piece that has the groups initials and is to be turned in at seminar in 2016. I'm thinking of going, so I may do it to get a skein of floss.

Speaking of floss! I started putting my floss in the "Annie's Keeper." I need to double check on the plastic storage box for them. I'm excited about this. I'm putting them on the plastic keepers. I have been putting the floss that Teri gave me on the plastic keepers. Then I'll go ahead and take out the floss that I was using for the project above and put them on the keepers. The plastic sheets I have I'll use on something else later. Or I'll give them away. I'll see what I want to do when I'm organized again.

I didn't work on the cat cross stitch today. I will do that tomorrow. I realize if I put the time into a quilt as I have on this project, I might be farther along. I'm just not ready to get back to it yet. I'll quilt on Phil's quilt in between making up my mind of what I want to work on.

"Squirrel! Squirrel!" that's what I'm doing again! I did see a dead hummingbird on my deck today. Broke my heart! I feed them and haven't ever had that problem. The other bird is still around. Guess it hasn't been my year with my "pets."

Received a gift from my brother today of chocolate covered pecans! Loving it!! Hoping to check it out soon!

I'm keeping busy and loving it! I am working more on my projects then playing....that's saying something! Happy Quilting!

A Little of This And a Little of That

Today started out slowly. Just wanted to relax. Then Patrick decided we'd go downstairs and enjoy the fireplace while we watched the Seahawks game. UGH! What an awful game that was! Oh, well, we're still in the game....

This morning I started out taking photos of my cross stitch work and put them on the Instagram. I finally signed up last night. I was surprised at how many people followed me when I only posted one thing. So, this morning I went and pulled out a few of my finished embroidery works. Cross stitch as well. The funny part of all this is that Patrick even got himself an account! He put my quilt with the ribbons on it in his! I signed up so I could see my sons art work. He doesn't show it other than on Instagram. So, if you want to see more of my work go to "lynnwiltzius" on Instagram. I was surprised at how many Wiltzius' are out there! One of them took my userid that I've been using for over 20 years! Young'ins!

After posting all that it was downstairs to clean up my cutting board! It was a mess - AGAIN!

Started with this.......

Even get up a couple sets of half square triangles to sew when I get in the mood.

Showed Patrick my next "2 Fabric applique" quilt. He thought I was doing it for Katt. I may yet, hard to say. I asked if the combo was okay. I'm still not set on this, but that is my next quick project later next year.

Once I got it this far, I decided that would be fine for now. I have more to work on. I put a couple things on my guilt wall and I will be trying to get a few more things done this year. In the upper left side is the eagle that I need to take out and try again...that will be worked on later...guess I'm into embroidery right now.

I pulled out my cross stitch from earlier this year. This is the project that Phil and Emily game me last year. I wanted to get back to it and get it moving again. I haven't touched it in over 6 months, so it really does need to get moving!

I worked on the cat and the flower on the bottom left. I thought I took a photo of what I had done but it's just the cat that I had the photo of. I put the yellow in under the pot. I added the left half of the flower with adding more dark yellow on the right side. I had about half that done. I ended up taking out about 1/3 of what I put in, because I had put it in a while back and was working off it. Good thing the right side was done right! I think the coloring of this flower is a little off, but betting it will look great when it's done. I moved the roll so I could work on the bottom part. I need to finish up the bee. I got distracted and went to the flower instead. Just like my daily life - distraction is part of my life.

I go from one thing to another. Even my family know how I can't seem to stay with one thing. I have prided myself on doing one cross stitch picture at a time. I'm trying to keep that same process with the embroidery. I'm not that smart when it comes to quilting.....just can't seem to stay working on the same thing when it comes to quilting. Think that's why I love applique - no repeat if I don't want to repeat it.

Tonight is bowling. Should be interesting. I tend to be all over the place lately when it comes to bowling.

This week will be interesting as well. I do not have any place to go....Patrick is off from Tuesday on because he's in that "use it or loose it" stage. So, I'm going to have him home all week.....wonder oh wonder what he's going to come up with to do! I can do this. I'm going to work on trying to finish my Brazilian embroidery this week. I need to work on the acorn top. I haven't tried it yet, but going to work on it. I have a "sampler" that I'm doing my "learning" pieces on.

I've still got to work on this. I have the bullion bars and now just need to do the double buttonhole stitch. Like I said yesterday...this is going to be interesting. It is like a knotted stitch. I never learned tatting and think that would come in handy right now. It is going to take a little getting used to.....I'll let everyone know how many times I had to take it out to get it right.....once so far! Took a break for a short time with that. It's on the coffee table waiting for me to pick it up and get back to trying it out....I'm going to do that.....I'm going to do that....I'm getting there....I'm going to do this!

Keep happy, be good, and may we all be Happy Quilting!

Peace And Quiet Day

Today was a good day. We left early this morning to the casino. We played for a couple hour before coming back home. The traffic was slow but not bad.

When we got home, I pulled out my embroidery. I'm so close to finishing it, "I can taste it!"

I finished the flower. The photo looks good. I'm not happy with the petals, but that will come with time and practice. I do like the way this is coming out. Who knows, I may actually have one more thing done this year!

I'm not sure how to do the acorn piece. So, I'm practicing before actually doing it on the design. If it doesn't work, I saw a couple other acorn designs I could use.

Let's see if I can figure it out. Remember - lefty here! - AND dyslexic! - this is going to be fun to see how much more backwards I can do it - smiling.

We sat and watched a couple older movies. Both were in black and white. I love those movies! They are so much fun. We did start to watch one movie but it was too slow in the beginning that we changed to another movie.

I'm enjoying the quiet. I'm having fun working on my projects. I was thinking I need to pull out the cross stitch of a cat and finish it. I have about 1/3 of it done. I may do that yet! Phil's quilt will be next too.....okay which one....finish one then the other?....maybe not.....work on two at once....or three....that sounds more like me!

We got word yesterday that my Nephew is expecting his first child in Aug. Both Jason and Lisa called me last night. I'm excited. Trouble is, now I need to make something for them. I noticed I had some white and baby green yarn downstairs. May make an afghan for them. That usually goes fast. Oh, crap...ANOTHER project. Oh, well, I'm having fun! Happy Quilting.

Merry Christmas! May It Be The Best Yet!

I know, right!? I'm blogging on Christmas Day! Hope everyone had a great Christmas.

I had an awesome Christmas. We were up early. Opened our gifts. My daughter gave me a beautiful necklace! I just love it! Patrick gave me the light box, a standing light (not the OTT lights but better), and some really nice boot like slippers! I love the slippers.

We then headed over to Phil and Emily's place. We had a great time there as well. We exchanged gifts. They gave me two Brazilian embroidery patterns and the kit for the threads. I'm so excited now! I've got plenty of stuff to work on and I won't have to buy anything for a long time! lol I love the patterns they gave me. I'll have to decide which one I want to do next.

We came home and got ready for mom and dad. Mom and dad arrived and we had a great meal! Everything worked out great. While we waited on supper, mom and I worked on our embroidery. She's doing the snowman embroidery pattern for a quilt.

I was working on my flower. I'm not sure if I really like what I'm doing. I think it could be better ut mom, dad, and Patrick liked it. I have one more to do and then I'll do the center. It's coming along great.

Afterwards we played games. We had a great time! Now it's time to sit and relax.

May we all have a great Merry Christmas and Best wishes! Happy Quilting!

Christmas Eve - Remembering old Traditions

Today I got up and walked. Patrick went to work. He's there all day today. Being nice to some of her workers and letting them have an early day. Not that they care. They tend to take advantage. Wondering how many called in sick today. (laughing)

After walking I went into the kitchen.....

Started out with pie crust. I decided to try a recipe that grandma used to use.

Patrick has been looking forward to a pecan pie. This one turned out a lot better than it did a couple year ago! (I under cooked it) This time I used Mary Frances Sain's recipe. She had the best pecan pie!! I really do miss that her! This was the first pie of the day!

I then baked another pie. I made this spiced eggnog pumpkin pie. It was really good the last time, the trouble was I had "chunks" it the last one. I blended the pumpkin this time! This looks even better than the first try....hoping.

While was was cooking, I thought of growing up around Christmas time. Dad celebrated on Christmas Eve. It made it easier for mom and dad, since mom's family did Christmas on Christmas day.

Christmas Eve we would try and talk the folks into letting us open a gift. We had a rule, no gifts where open on Christmas Eve. With one exception! We could open the gift that was the farthest away. We got one gift and that gift had to last till the next day. Grandma W would wrap a special gift for us. So, we would have the choice of her gift or the farthest away. We found out her gift was the most fun that day! We would get wind up toy. It might be a "top" or it might be a chicken that hops. It was always different each year. Over the years they would break and we'd throw them out. OR we would get ready to move again. We were limited to the weight we would be able to take. So, when mom cleaned out our toys and gave them away, those would sometimes be the ones that went.

We had a train around the tree every year. One of my brothers would get one from Santa or we would put one around the tree. It was the highlight of our tree.

Every year mom and grandmother (when she was around) would be in the kitchen baking and cooking for the next day. Our meal for Christmas Eve would be something simple. We would rather play then eat back then. Now we'd rather eat then play!

Living in a military life made things hard around Christmas. It was always just the 5 of us. If grandmother was with us, it would make 6. So, mom and dad would invite the military men that didn't have a place to go for Christmas to our house. We would have a feast with friends sometimes. Other times it would just be us.

Now, all those years later, it's just Patrick and I. My brothers are in another state with their families. My folks will join us tomorrow. We will see Phil and Emily in the morning. Looking forward to a Joyous Christmas.

So, while I'm sitting here thinking of the past, may you be having a Merry Christmas Eve and keep being Happy Quilting!

Pouring Rain....Rain.....Rain......and More Rain!

Today we walked. And it POURED! We started out with no rain....but since we were out there, I'm sure the rain thought it would be fun to pour on us! Got home soaked.

My boots couldn't take the rain after I soaked them big time!

Worked on laundry and cleaned up some since we are getting closer to Christmas. I wanted to have the place looking better.

Pulled the vacuum out and looked out the door. Guess the hummingbird wanted to get out of the rain as well. Didn't seem him eating much, but did see him sitting there.

Got the puzzle this far....till I vacuumed a piece up in the machine. This vacuum didn't leave much to the piece it ate. Ticked me off! So, I put it all in the box and threw it out! I HATE having a puzzle that is missing a piece. 'Cause it was my fault it was missing a piece, but decided it wasn't worth finishing at that rate. The piece it ate was the one on the bottom that was missing. Not liking that! Patrick came home and thought I was nuts. He said I could have saved the piece....told him that piece was a tiny shred of paper. No way I could have even used it in that spot. It would be a small pile of paper, not a piece. Guess I can say my vacuum works!

I got the sashing area done last night. Remember when I said, "SQUIRREL!"? Well, that's what I've been up to lately. Start one thing, think of another and I'm off again! I go from one thing to another. I can't seem to just sit and work on the quilt!

It's kinda like when I type this. I can't pull the recliner up when I type, because I see Charlie looking at me over the screen wanting attention.....but I can't give it to her, she's not here. I think it's like when I quilt, I have to put my knees up. I think of her under what I'm working on. That's about the time I see "squirrel!" and off I go. I'm working through it.

Today I was working on the family history....I found Patrick's 10th gr-grandfather! He was the last person executed during the Witch Trails in MA. There is a bench with his name on it. I was so shocked to see it from his side of the family. Didn't expect that. I got excited!! I thought it was only my side of the family that had the Witch Trails. Now I wonder if the trees are going to meet up. Would be interested if they did.

It's still raining and we are heading out to our bowling league. We will pick up some pizza to take with us. It's our party night. That means we bring a gift for a "gal" and "guy." Then we have to bowl a strike to be able to pick our gifts. I usually get close to the last one to go get my gift. Sometimes I think a couple of the women go get one when they don't get the strike in the first 5 frames. They don't like to wait. I don't really care if I'm the first or the last. I've been the last before. (Yep, couldn't get a strike for the life of me....then just went and picked my gift up when everyone else had theirs.)

Got a card from my Aunt. She got the quilt - she couldn't wait and opened it. She loves it! I need to let her know to bring it back so I can redo the binding. I'm just happy she's happy!

May today be a great day for everyone....Tomorrow a great day as well.....and then Christmas! It's a Merry Day for all! Patrick works tomorrow....so no major plans. May we all be Happy Quilting!

Count Down to Christmas!

Another day closer to Christmas. Spirit is in the air.

Today started out with a good walk. I was happy to get out there again to walk. Ruth texted and asked if I was going to walk today...told her "Yep!" We had a good walk. I forgot to take her gift down to her.

After getting back from walking, I started the laundry. I have been getting behind on the laundry. I did get my whites in today. For some reason I hate washing white clothes. Love doing the others! Go figure.

I worked on my secretary work for the water system. I have to send out bills for everyone to pay after the first of the year. I'll be going to the bank off and on between January and March with payments.

I worked a little on the puzzle as well. It's almost done. I'll have to take another photo of it. It's been fun to work on. I really should get it done so I can put the case away. I have to wrap a couple gifts and that case is in the way. I'll just move it and wrap them tonight. They are for the guys at the bowling alley that have been really nice to us over the years.

I did get some quilting in.

I didn't get a lot done. I could have but wasn't in the mood for some reason. I did get started on the sashing and will work on the upper sashing tonight. If I don't play with the puzzle instead.

I'm thinking about what I did today....can't remember....don't think it was that long ago that I would forget it already! UGH. I did get two calls from my two doctors offices. One nurse called to say she sent the form off on my prescription to the insurance company. I've been working on this for 3 months now. Insurance said they would approve it if the paperwork didn't get to them by next month. Ticked me off I've been working on this or over three months. Oh, well. The other doctors office set me up for an appointment....in three months! Something about 3 months with me!

Back to what I was thinking....or was I thinking?! Anyway, kept busy but not doing much in the way of crafts. I tend to get distracted at times. I did watch the shows "Librarians" that I had on the DVR. Enjoyed that! Other than that....my mind is going!.....Can't remember what I did! (Other than laundry. Only because I really don't like doing it some days!)

So, while I keep thinking....I'll wish everyone the best this Holiday Season! I will also hook everyone up to a couple blogs - Life In Pieces and VROOMANS QUILTS. Both seem busy this holiday season! Keep it up and Happy Quilting!

A Wet And Rainy Day With Brazilian Embroidery

Today was raining again. Seems to be a broken record when it comes to rain. I understand it is supposed to be raining all week.....not sure we'll be walking if it keeps up! I want to get back to walking.

I got ready and left for our Brazilian embroidery meeting. There was 5 of us there today. We had an awesome time! We visited and worked on our projects.

I worked on the petals of the flower. I'm not too crazy about them, but they are getting easier to do as I go. Once the top layer is on, it should look great. I was surprised I got all those done today. It feels good to see it coming. I'm hoping it will look better when I'm done. The center is easy enough to do, but I'm going to have to make sure I have the time to do it all at once. I don't want to start it and then have to leave.

I came home, wrote a few more Christmas cards. I really need to get my laundry going again. My socks are running out.

When I had a few minutes I started quilting on this piece. The upper left half square triangle was quilted. I'm going to try and get this block done tonight. There are three more blocks that need to be done. IF I did nothing else but quilt, I could have this done. My problem is that tend to find other things I want to do. I like the way Donna puts it.....SQUIRREL! SQUIRREL! (Running around for another nut!)

I've been enjoying a few of the Christmas movies. We found a few older ones that we have been watching. I really love those older movies. I've also like the Hallmark movies. Patrick calls them "Chick Flicks" but I'm okay with that. They are a lot more fun to watch then some of the newer movies.

It's now the count down to Christmas. I have two pies to make in a couple days. I've really haven't been in the mood to do a lot for Christmas, but I do feel the "feeling" of the holidays. I love the feel of Christmas! May everyone have a great count down....will wish the best to all...and Happy Quilting!

Getting Used to Ripping Things Out!

Today started out fast. I got up and played for about an hour. When Patrick got up he told me we would be leaving in about 30 mins. I had to get my shower and get ready to go.

We went to the Star Wars movie! It was AWESOME! Reminded me of the original movies. I won't give out the "surprise" in the movie. I did love it! We picked Phil up to join us. He had a good time and we had a good time with him. I enjoyed seeing him, since we see little of him these days.

Last night after I typed my blog, I worked on Phil's quilt. I was so ticked off at myself again!! I did the sashing between the two blocks on the left side.

I actually had it all quilted! Then I realized I hadn't done the sashing between the middle row and the bottom row....duh! When I ran my hand over the square that matches them up, it buckled! AGAIN. I thought I could keep going till I tightened the area to quilt.....nope, that doesn't work! So, after putting all that work in, it came out.

This time I am going to work on the top sashing and side sashing, marking as I go. I will do what I can before moving my hoop. One would think I never quilted before! I know better than that. I have done it twice so far.....let's see if I learned anything with this quilt when I get to the top row. I did finish the lower right side and it looks good.

Am I excited about finishing this and not paying attention? Am I just not paying attention? Good questions...thinking "yea to both" but who knows. The quilt has been waiting 20 years. Don't think another week is going to kill it. I'll try and behave this week and see if I can get it done.

Tomorrow is Brazilian embroidery. Then I'll come home and see what I can do with this quilt!

Tonight is bowling and we have a pot luck at the bowling alley. I'm hoping I can pick up my bowling and get some good games in. We won't do the exchange. We are taking my "other son" a container of cookies. I couldn't think of what to get him and I forgot to check with Phil to see what he could use. I'll work on that next year. I've called him my "son" for close to 10 years now. He's been a part of the family when Phil was in HS and when he was back home.

I'm still working on my stuff...getting back to the feeling of working on them without Charlie around. We talked about her the other day. Saying how we missed her and what she used to do when we were around. She would follow Patrick around in the yard and keep an eye on him. Every time he was out there, she wanted out to follow him. Otherwise she was following me around the house. I'm doing better, still missing her. Think of her while I'm Happy Quilting!

Enjoying the Day Together

Patrick and I have been enjoying another Saturday together. We went to the casino and left quicker than usual. They had some tight machines. lol

Came home and worked on our peanut brittle. We got a batch for ourselves this time. Funny how all those cookies and batches of fudge were given away. We didn't keep as much this year. We really don't need all the sweets. It was a good way to keep the sweets away from eating them all.

I haven't sat down to quilt yet. That is my next idea for tonight. Sorry, not much to report about. Been going through all the things I need to get back to. Seems I'm in a slow "spot" right now. I do hope to have the square done with the ship.

Tomorrow is off to the movies to see "Star Wars." Then it's bowling. Not sure if I will be posting tomorrow. I will try to get something done so there is something to post.

Happy Quilting!

From One Place to Another.....

Today was another one of those days where I couldn't walk because of the rain. We would normally walk in the past. With Ruth having her knees done we decided it would be better to wait for a dry day to walk. With the winter coming we will probably not be able to walk as much. We would have walked this afternoon, but that wasn't going to happen.

I went to moms for our meeting. I took my gift for the Christmas party. I knew I would have to leave around 11:30/45 am. Mom knew that. I called to see if the sandwich was still there from Wednesday so I could eat it on the way to my doctors office. Nope, mom and dad eat it yesterday. lol

I didn't have the time to go looking for my applique that I need to work on. So, I took my Brazilian embroidery instead. While I was there I was able to work on the upper area where the wheat is.

I also worked on the area of the wheat on this side too. I need to get started on the flower where the circle is. We have our meeting on Monday. I'll be able to work on it then.

They realized I had to go, so they decided to get started on the gift exchange. Patrick showed up just as we were getting started. I picked my gift and left it just in case they wanted to "steal it." Got back from a busy day to find out I still had the gift, and mom had the gift I took. lol

After leaving moms we headed to doctors. I got right in, but waited 30 minutes for them to bring the information back to me. I had to go out and see if they were still around. Too funny! We went to get my prescription. Then headed to the casino not far from there.

After the casino we went back to moms to pick up the truck.

Came home and quilted while watching a movie.

This block is about 2/3's done. This is the block that I took out! I'm happy to say it's working out better now. I was moving along great! Happy Quilting!

A Quiet Day....But A Good Day!

Today was another one of those rainy days. It was pouring so we didn't get to walk. I did go down to see Ruth. She was setting up for the a party for her "Homemakers Club." I took her down a plate that was a snowman. Told her to use that on her table. She liked it and used it.

Afterwards came back up and vacuumed. I needed to get some of that dirt off the floor. I swear that dirt knows when I vacuum and rushes right in! I wrapped the last of the gifts. I got excited when I finally finished it up. It makes me feel like I finally finished something. lol Looking forward to next week.

I found some fat quarters downstairs that I bought over the last few months. I put them in the "mailbox" that I had to fill for tomorrows groups gift exchange. I won't be able to be there long because I have a doctors appointment tomorrow. I hope I can get in on the exchange, but if not, they can exchange my gift for me.

This is where I was yesterday on the quilt. I didn't get the sashing done. I'm hoping to work on it tonight. I need to get my white pencil for the marking and think that is what is slowing me down. I don't know if it's because I don't know what I did with my pencils or if I'm just too lazy to go downstairs and get them. Either way, I need to get moving and finish this up! (smiling)

Christmas cards are arriving and I'm slowly writing back. I have sent off 10 cards so far. I know I have more to go. I'll work on it by this weekend. Happy Quilting!

Fudge & Brittle Day!

This morning started out with a quick walk. Then on my way to moms, stopped at Rite Aide to get another gift for Patrick. While I was there I found they had Christmas stuff at 50% off.

SO....I just had to buy the Santa and Mrs. Claus set!

Not sure where I'm going to put them. Mrs. is in the bathroom right now. Santa is on my coffee table but he's too big for that. I need to clear a corner and put him there. I've been wanting this set for a long time. They move and sing. I love it.

After that trip, I went on to mom and dads. We ended up making fudge and brittle all day long.

We had two pots going the whole time. We ended up making 5 batches of fudge. One was with cashews, one with peanut butter and the rest were with walnuts. Then we made 3 batches of brittle. We had a great time! Mom put some of her stuff in containers for her friends. She's giving them out tomorrow. There was plenty to give out.

Now for my quilting.....remember I took out Phil's ships?.....well, I finished quilting the corner block. Then I checked to see who it looked and realized I didn't do the sashing between the bottom middle block and the right block. Three guesses what I did last night after I finished that block!....Yep, took out all that quilting! The sashing was buckered! I was happy to see my quilting actually stays in. It took some doing on a couple spots to get it out! After I finished taking all that out, I got it set and ready to do the sashing and then work my way back to the block. It's marked and ready to quilt since I did that when I was working on it. And here I thought I was moving along great! (laughing) Never fails, when one thinks it's going great, something happens.

Tomorrow is a quiet day. No visiting. No shopping. No visitors. Just me and my messes. I wonder what I'll do tomorrow. Hopefully Happy Quilting!

How Lazy Can I Get?!

Today started out with a walk. It wasn't icy like yesterday. We got in a good walk. Came home and started a load of laundry. Then I sat and played games. After awhile I worked on the puzzle. About half of the puzzle is done.

I even went downstairs to heat the room with the idea of working on my projects. Guess what I didn't do?! Got lazy and decided to shut the heat off down there. I wrapped gifts instead. Then I played a little while and it was 1:30 pm already.

So.....I needed to be productive! I pulled Phil's quilt out.

Started working on the lower right side's ship. I'm almost done. I've got the water and the ship windows to do. Then I can move to the next one.

I went looking for the template for the quilting design between blocks. At first I thought I'd have to do without. Then I looked where I put the rulers and was thrilled to find I actually planned that right. Usually I put stuff away and then can't remember that "important" place I put it.

As I type this, Patrick is snoring in his chair! lol Guess he had a busy day today.

Let's see if I can get this done. I'm going to mom's tomorrow to work on the fudge and peanut brittle. Should be interesting. I may have to take my candy thermometer with me. Just have to be sure I bring it back.

Patrick's gifts arrived today. Wouldn't you know it! After I wrapped the other gifts, more show up. I'll work on that on Thursday. I hope. Patrick is taking Friday off I know. Not sure about Thursday. Next week he's taking a couple days off too. He's in that state of "use it or loose it."

I did get two loads of laundry done. Guess I wasn't REAL lazy, but lazy enough! I could have had a lot more done! Oh, well. I'm still getting there and Happy Quilting!

Getting Back on Track!

Today was a good day. I went walking with Ruth. Came home and started working on the on laundry. Sat down and played for a little while, worked on my puzzle.

Then I decided I better get started. I worked on the binding and got it finished. I then added the label.

This is the paper version. Just realized I didn't take a photo of it before I wrapped it. I hope she likes it. 

This quilt is more orange than it looks. I was a little disappointed in the way it finished up. After I washed it, it puckered a little around the binding. I had checked that before I started on the binding, but guess I missed it. It would have been better if I had quilted in the framing. I will consider that net time. I do like the way it came out, just wish it laid a little better. 

After finishing the label on the quilt I washed it. Then I worked on the sleeve for the back. That was done in the darker color since I didn't have anymore of the orange to make it with. 

I walked again this afternoon with Ruth. We did a shorter walk. She had made her 10,000 step at the start of our walk. I didn't get it till later around supper time. 

I pulled out my Christmas cards. I'm going to write a little on each and try to get them out. 

I did say I would show what I had done for Christmas decorations. The Santa's sit up there on the cabinet. 

I ironed the table cloth - a little. Then I brought up the dishes and washed them. Went down and brought up the glasses and washed them as well. I'm try and get it set up nice by he weekend. I want to enjoy a nicely set table for awhile. 

Tonight I'm thinking of working on Phil's quilt. I wanted to have it done by Christmas for him. Haven't gotten there yet, but if I do work on it till then I should be able to get it done. There really isn't a lot to do on that quilt. I have about half already done - I think! I really need to finish up a couple quilts I've started! This week will be pretty much on my own. Not too crazy about that, since Charlie won't be around. I will work on keeping my spirits up! I can do this on my own. 

Life is good, cookies are going out, and I'm still Happy Quilting!

Where Did The Day Go??!

Okay....today was getting up early. Had to meet the gals for bowling at 9:15 am. Patrick slept till 8:30 am, so had to move fast once he was up. Good thing we didn't have to go far to meet up with them. It's a 5 minute drive to our meeting place. Loaded up the car with gifts since it was our Christmas Party as well.

We headed to St. Helen's OR. It usually takes about an hour and a half. Today...longer. We got to State Route 3, 18 miles from St. Helen's when traffic was stopped. We waited and waited for it to move. Nothing. A contractor that was parted behind us had walked up to see what was going on. On his way back, Kim stopped him and asked what was up. He didn't know but knew another way to go. When we asked him, he said, "yah, I guess you can make it, follow my truck." We wondered what he meant by that. We followed him on the back roads. We hit gravel road a couple times. Took about 30 minutes to cut off 4 miles. We got back on SR3 and made it to the bowling alley 30 minutes late. We were the first ones from WA to get there. We waited another 20 minutes and then was told the others could finally get through. There was a mud slide on the road with a tree in the road. We couldn't go to St. John's because there was a train that was on fire and that road was closed as well. We ended up bowling an hour and a half after our scheduled time. That didn't help me out, since I bowled REALLY bad! I got some awesome gifts from the others. I even won $2 on the scratch ticket that Sally gave us. The trip back wasn't so bad, but it was way past the time we normally get home.

Patrick picked me up at 4:30 pm. We came home and eat. Then at 5:30 pm headed out to the bowling alley to bowl on our league. I bowled as bad as I did this afternoon with the exception of the last game. It took me 6 games to get over 155 and bowl a 202. Kim and I were joking about how I'm warmed up and ready to do a tournament now! NOT!

I did get 3/4 of the binding done on this quilt. I will take a photo of it tomorrow. I also have the label done and will show that as well. Today just went by so fast that I'm surprised I lost the day just waiting! I'm not a waiter, so it took its toll on my bowling. Next month we will be here. I wanted to be working on my projects, but life was quick today.

I found out we are not exchanging gifts on Sunday. We did buy the yarn for me to make more pot holders for that. I guess that's a good thing. I will work on finishing the quilt tomorrow, then I'm going to get back to the piecing I was doing. I want to try and get back downstairs to work on stuff. I'm in the mood, so I better take advantage of that!

A day gone with little projects done. But then there is tomorrow to be Happy Quilting!!

Another Saturday...Gone

Today I actually slept in - I really mean SLEPT in! I got up at 9 am! I haven't done that since before we were married! It felt good though. For the first time in a very long time, I really slept. Woke once. Then went back to sleep. Felt good this morning.

Patrick slept longer than I did. When he got up we figured we had about an hour before we had to leave. We were off to the movies. We went to "IN THE HEAT OF THE SEA." I really, really enjoyed it! It was good. Not too gory. There were times I didn't look, but that would only be once or twice. They told you what to expect. The best part was they didn't show you what you were thinking! It's a good story. I found myself wanting to learn more about the maritime ships back in the 1800's. My family tree has ship captions in that time frame. Makes me want to know more about what they did.

After the movie, we headed home. Stopped at Safeway and was able to get my table cloth. I may need to iron it. I've got it on the table now and will decide tomorrow or Monday if I'm going to iron it before setting it up.

Last night I finished the quilting on the quilt. I was able to start the binding. I'm still not happy about the bearding on the black batting. I do hope it comes off when it wash it. I should have it done by Wednesday (my deadline from Patrick).

Today is the first day since Charlie passed that I have been able to put my recliner up. I dd it this morning and was looking for Charlie to join me. It's still hard not having her around. I find myself more edgy with out her. I don't like being at home by myself without her. Patrick doesn't want another cat, so I'm going to have to figure something out to make me more comfortable around the house.

I'm still working on the puzzle. It's almost half done.

The label is done for the quilt. Once the quilt is done I will get moving on more hot pads to give as gifts for the bowling group. We bring a gift (gals and guys). Then we put them on the table. When we get our first strike, we go get a gift off the table. I have been known to be close to the last person to get the gift. I do have those "off" days. Tomorrow is my bowling day that is both morning and night. I'll be down in St. Helen's OR for our travel league. Got all the gifts ready to give out.

Tonight is another night of being Happy Quilting!!

Posting for 2 Days! Got Behind!

TODAY

Since I'm a day behind, I'm going to post for both yesterday and today on here. This morning I slept in (check yesterday for why). My hip was hurting while I was sleeping. I woke up in pain, moved around and went back to sleep. Ruth called and told her I would be there in about an hour. As I was getting ready to leave, she texted and say she wouldn't be walking - company arrived. That was at 8:10 am. Her company came from over an hour away! 

I enjoyed my morning by myself in the living room while Patrick slept. He took yesterday and today off. He is at the point where he needs to "use it or loose it." So, next week he'll be taking time off as well. 

After he got up we went downstairs to get some Christmas decorations out. As we were doing that, we filled about 4 boxes of stuff to have for a garage sale. I couldn't believe it! Thought we did that last year!! We pulled out the stuff my Aunt gave us and went through it again. I'm going to put the dishes out on the table when I get the table cloth. I hope to get it by tomorrow. We put out three Santa's (yea, I have a ton more!). I put an Angel out and a Santa pillow. The tree finally got it's skirt under it. I was so glad we didn't pull all that stuff under the stairs out. Once we had that done - took a while! - I sat down and worked on the quilt while Patrick wrapped gifts. I think he was in the mood - NOT complaining!

I'm hand quilting around the edge and then will call it good. 

I'm hoping to get started on sewing the binding down. Next step will be the label. Still thinking about how I want to finish it. 

Okay, something I was thinking about - Since when did they start calling hand quilting "utility quilting?" Hand quilting is hand quilting. So what if my stitches are bigger than the tiny stitches from 100 years ago. They are uniform. I'm insulted when I'm told I do "utility quilting." I quilt, and that's what I was taught. There are no rules to quilting. Why do we all the sudden have to put a "label" on what we do? Who ever called it "utility" quilting should stop and think. Yes, quilts are made to be used. Yes, quilts are made for contests, and yes, quilting is done by hand. Don't label my hand quilting as "utility!" It makes me think of sweat shops and quilters 100 years ago that made quilts and sold them. No, my stitches are not 20 stitches to an inch. No, my stitches don't match up some times. I'm a quilter that quilts by hand. If one wants to counts stitches, go right ahead, but don't judge me on how small or how big they are! I can do tiny stitches and have done them. Fabrics today are stiffer and harder to quilt through. Steams make it harder to quilt through, as well as batting. If one is a hand quilter - don't offend us by saying we make "utility" quilting stitches. It doesn't fly with me! 

Now for.......

YESTERDAY

It was windy and rainy, so Ruth and I didn't make it out to walk. I waited on Patrick to get up. He got a call from work, which got him up. That way I was going to take a shower, but that didn't happen...he beat me there! So, I was going to be late for our Christmas Party! I called just before he went in the shower to see if the party was still on. Found out it was. She only got two "possible" misses. After my shower, I grabbed everything I had for our meeting and headed out.

I drove to Lacey, WA which is about 45 mins north of her. Teri's place was easy to find. I was so thrilled it was that easy! I'm one of those people that tend to get lost or make one wrong turn and have to turn around and go back. I arrived about 15 mins later than I hoped. We had an awesome time. I baked the "monkey bread" just before I left. I'm happy to say it was a big success. I love backing bread and was thrilled it turned out so good. 

We exchanged gifts and no one "stole" any gifts. I got a dish full of chocolates, a swatch helper, a finger cushion, candy cane, button earrings, small jewelry box, ornament, and something else. I was thrilled. I usually get patterns or other things I don't use or want. This was a good gift. (I appreciate anything I get!)

After the party, I came home to get ready to go to Little Creek Casino for the "OAK RIDGE BOYS" concert. We left around 4:30 pm. It's about an hour and a half drive from here. As we were on the road - again rainy and windy - one car came so close to my side of the door I was surprised he didn't take out the mirror! Freaked me out when I looked over to see him passing! Trust me, Patrick was going the speed limit! 

We arrived about 45 mins early for the concert and decided to play a few minutes on the machines. We did pretty good! Went to the concert and I was surprised (yea I know) that they looked so "OLD." But then I'm not a young chick either! They sounded better as they went along. I enjoyed the concert. It was their Christmas concert. I had never been to their concerts or any other for that matter. I've only been to 4 concerts in my life time, so you can say I've been missing out! Then again, not. 

We played a little while after the concert and then were home by midnight. I was tired and ready to climb in bed. Didn't get much in way of walking or moving around - not a good thing for me. 

Life is good and Happy Quilting!