A Day of Volunteering Again

This morning was up and moving. I needed to get to the bank, Walmart (yea, I know), and mom's. I wanted to be there before 9 but the bank doesn't open till 9 am. I was at the bank right at 9 am. 

Headed to Walmart - yep, my favorite store (NOT) - and picked up some batteries for my camera. Had to get shampoo too, since I noticed this morning I had maybe one more wash to go and then no more. Thought we had plenty! Good thing I didn't get in the shower and find out we didn't have any at all!

Mom and I enjoyed some quilting time together and watched "The Good Witch" on her Netflix. She has been watching them from the beginning, so I was getting in on it in Season 2. I still don't know what happens in the one we were watching before we had to head over to Reborn.

Mom and I were scheduled to work at Reborn. I stopped and got us lunch and met mom at Reborn. She was leaving early because of physical therapy for her shoulder. I worked from 1:30 pm to 5 pm. It was quiet after mom left. I think I sold about $7 with of stuff in the last 1 1/2 hours. Mom called at 4:15 to see how I was doing and see if she needed to come back. Told her, "no." Then she told me she was going to the movies with my brother's sister-in-law. They were already together. Bet they went out to eat as well.

I was able to get these 3 done. Now I have 21 completely finished. I have about 19 more to go. I'm okay with that. I'm getting there.

Came home and decided I wanted to take a walk, so I called Cherrill and we walked. I'm happy to say I walked 10,000 step today so far. I haven't done that in a very long time. I was thrilled Cherrill wanted to walk. We've been trying to get more walking in lately. Hopefully when Seminar is over, we can get more walking in. I'm keeping my fingers crossed we can walk again tomorrow before the weekend gets here. Katt will be here Saturday.

Tomorrow is quilting at moms. She just called and asked if I would take Daisy for her walk in the morning. I will. Guess she stepped wrong and pulled a muscle. I'm hoping to get some quilting done on Katt's quilt. I need to work on that as well.

It's been a long day and I'm ready to just sit and relax. Maybe play a game or two before going to bed. Volunteer work is so much fun, and I'm sorry I won't be able to help them out anymore. I was really getting into it again. They close their doors June 24th, so I won't be able to help them out. June is going to be a fun and sad month all in one, for me. We will be taking dad to Tahoma National Cemetery on the 22nd. Time is flying.

Not sure if I will be posting next week. It's a busy month as I said, and I'm not sure I will be able to post next week. I'm thinking we will be without computers and tablets, and calling it an "off the grid" week.

In the meantime, I'll continue to post for now and pick it back up in a week. Have you had an "off the grid" kinda week? How did it go for you? Are you like me and go through withdrawal?? Let me know how it is for you!

Keep up with the fun, and be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Keeping Busy....Getting Ready.....

Today I was up and running - so to speak. I played for about an hour, then I called Cherrill. We walked about 4,000 steps. So that's a little over a mile and a half.

Then came back home and went downstairs to get more thread catchers cut and sewn. I sewed about 18 more.

I have 16 completely done. I have another 24 to finish. That will give me 40 to sell at Seminar. I'm hoping they do sell. If not, I'll probably give them away to friends. lol

I sewed 4 of them completely today. It takes a little longer than I thought, but I'm getting them done. I have a box I'm filling them in, so it's easier to take. It should work out, if I can sell them. lol Most of my day was downstairs, from cutting, sewing, and ironing them. Now I'm hand sewing the sides and putting the buttons on.

I made stew for Patrick today. Since it had carrots and potatoes, I didn't eat any. I made stir fry for myself. I'm having to cut out the bread and potatoes again. I did get a piece of garlic bread though.

We're having to think about what we will take with us to San Diego. I'm not sure when my brain will start pulling clothes out and putting them in a suitcase. I'm not sure if I will be able to post while we are gone, so if you don't see any posts, then chances are I'm in San Diego and will post when I get back. In two weeks I'm off to Brazilian embroidery Seminar.

As you can see, I've been busy! Let's STAY Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Worked On The Thread Catchers.........

Today was a good day. I was up and enjoying the day.

So, I worked on my thread catchers. I really need to get them done. I didn't realize it would take so long to get them done, but I'm going to work on it. So, I finished 5 of them today. I have more to do tomorrow since I have the day to myself again. It's really nice having days like this.

I have one more that is almost done. These will be ready for Seminar. I just hope I can sell them.

Then I was talking to mom and told her I forgot the backpack and she reminded me that I took it already. Okay, what did I do with it??? I remembered telling Patrick about it, and we were in a hurry to leave, so I put it away.....WHERE?? I must have had one of my "this will work" places and now I can't remember where that is!! I searched the whole house....twice....and then again.....nothing! What in the world was I thinking when I put it away??? Now let's see how long it will be before I find it....ugh!

Then it was bowling time. We went bowling and I bowled AWFULLY!! I bowled a 187, 149, 190!!!! This was 9-pin No Tap!! UGH. I got 6 - 7 pin splits!! That didn't help and that was in the second game. Not my night. We lost the last two games by 5 pins, and that was what I cost the team.....UGH!!

Guess the day wasn't my best day, but it was a good day all the same. If I can get more catchers done then I'll be happy. Think I counted a total of 12 done. Not bad, but still have 17 more to go.

Okay, it's time to call it a night. I'm tired of bowling and tired of trying to figure out what I did with the backpack. So, now I'm wondering how many of you are like me, putting things away and then not able to find them later.

It's time to get back to being Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

MEMORIAL DAY

Sadly to say, today was like any other day. Dad isn't interned yet, so we didn't go to Tahoma National Cemetery for him. We didn't make the trip to Seattle either, which we haven't done for years. As much as I want to go to the cemeteries and honor my family, I find that I haven't been able to for years. My civil war vet grandfather is in Tacoma, and I have yet to see his grave. I do honor them on "Findagrave.com" but that's about it.

We actually talked about that yesterday. Dad's ashes are at moms, and I really don't feel a "connection" to them. Funny though, because I have been known to cry at the cemetery for relatives I didn't even know. We wondered why so many people find this weekend the weekend to go camping. They don't honor the veterans, they just enjoy a day off (kinda like we did). I can't find camping all that exciting. I did it with my family as a child. We had tents. I remember being so excited about sleeping in a tent! Now, I can't see anything exciting about sleeping in the tent! lol

So, Patrick worked out in the yard in the morning. I stayed in (like I usually do), and worked on a few things. Then Patrick wanted to go to the dump to drop off the branches he took down. So, we did that, and while he was unloading (didn't want my help), I worked on another thread catcher. I didn't finish it, but got the sides done between that and the gas station.

We went to moms and dropped off another hose for her. Patrick replaced her hoses. Then we were off to the casino. We did really well for the 2 hours we were there.

Came home and I worked on my family tree. I found a few names that are my direct line - and can't find them! I have the names, but they are not even showing up on ancestry! How weird is that.

I found I could not watch the news yesterday, because every time they showed the cemetery and "taps" was playing I would start to get emotional. In three weeks, it's going to be harder! Life is life.

I do hope you were able to be Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

It Turned Out To Be A Good Day!

Even though I was up at 2 am and went back to bed at 4 am, today was a good day. Patrick tried to sleep in but Phil was texting me at 7 am. lol

So from 3 am to 4 am I was working on this piece. I got a little more done. I'm happy with what I did. I was frogging some of it but now it's doing fine. The funny part is when I've been cross stitching all these years, and can't seem to count!! I get off by one stitch. Then when I'm done with that part, I'm looking at it and going, "Oh crap! I'm off!" Next thing, before I know it,  I'm take it out....hence the "frogging."

I enjoyed watching a couple TV shows and playing games. I got more done on my game. I'll have to pull out of the contests that we are in. I'm going to be way too busy over the next three weeks.

I baked a "Apple Stiff" that turned out really good. I wanted to do dessert for Patrick. This is like a bar and is really good. It's more like an apple pie then a bar.

While that was cooking, I was working on my thread catchers. I got two more done.

These are done and ready to go. I like them because they fold up flat. I'm going to be selling these are Seminar for our group to earn money. I have 9 completely done. They don't take long, but they do take time putting buttons on. Buttons today are not cheap either. I'll be going through my stash of buttons before too much longer....wonder why I keep them in the first place. I have a weird way of looking at them - "Oh, that's pretty....nah I won't use that one," "look at that one! It's so different, oh, shut, not enough of the same," or even, "It looks so old, do I really want to use an old button for this? Nah."

I'm going to work on a flyer for the Toyota we are selling. I'm going to enjoy doing that. Then I'm going to sit here and get some more information in on the family tree. I'm amazed at how much I've been able to find and enter. Maybe dad's helping me now that he's looking down on me.

We had supper at moms and then came home. It would be nice if we could get that house over there to be closer to her. It would make things easier on all of us.

Life is good, we are still moving along fine. Best wishes to all of you this holiday season. Please remember the Veterans that have passed on - including my dad. While your thinking of them and what they have done for us to be free - stay Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

What A Day!

Today I was up before Patrick, but he wasn't too far behind since he got a call from work. My phone had a message at 7 am. The message (I later found out) was from Amazon saying my package arrived. Well, yeah it did, YESTERDAY.

I didn't get moving till around 10 am. I was playing games. Patrick was getting more calls from work, so he was not only on the phone today, but he was cleaning up the yard. He did the mowing, clipping, and clearing all day. Once he gets started, he just keeps going. The old plants are pulled out and the new ones are put in. He's a great gardener. He does an awesome job on the yard.

I watched my shows on the TV and worked on my cross stitching.

We decided to go out to eat. Afterwards we went to moms to get her hose taken care of. Patrick checked her heater/air conditioner.

Love moms flowers!

Then we went to Walmart - yeah I know, I hate Walmart! But Patrick needed a couple things and I thought I would check out the buttons. I was shocked at how quickly we got in and out of that place! Didn't wait in line!

Came home and worked on my genealogy. I'm getting a lot farther with it then I have in years. The books I got yesterday are a great help, but I'm entering information I have on paper first before going to the books. I have a ton of stuff to enter and I may wind up with a huge tree yet! I'm close to 10,000 names in my "Taylor Tree."

Have a great weekend and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Have a great day and be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

I Made Myself Keep Busy

Not that I planned to do that, but I did make myself keep busy getting things done. Not like I really need to keep busy, but I do need to get things done. Not  only crafts but housework as well. Which ended up by my doing both!

I was up around 8:30 am - a good sleep that I needed! I haven't been sleeping good lately, so when I do get a good nights sleep, I just keep sleeping.

The first thing I did, was noticed that the house was looking pretty bad, since I have been home much over the past few weeks. Plus I really haven't been feeling like doing much since my father passed away. So, it was time to "suck it up" and get going. Laundry went in, then mopped the kitchen floor, vacuumed the floor, and then cleaned up my mess under my end table. Amazing how much better one feels after the house gets cleaned!

I went downstairs between cleaning. I cut out more scrap triangles for the thread catchers. I cut out enough for 18 more. I have 7 done, from the original 10. I sewed them up, then ironed about 10 of them. I have enough to work on when I get the chance. Plus I can take my bag with me to sew the sides up and put the buttons on. I have it all ready to go now. It must have taken me about 2 hours just cutting, sewing, and ironing!

Kept talking to mom today. She had it rough this morning. We will go see her tomorrow, after the funeral she's going to. That is going to be really hard on her.

My genealogy book finally made it in today!!

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They are "Genealogy of the Descendants of John White of Wenham and Lancaster, Massachusetts" 1638-1900- two volumes!!

So, I took the evening and worked on the White family in my tree. This family is connected to my family, as I added another 100 names tonight. I am trying to figure out where John hooks to the family, and figure I will get there. Benjamin is before his time or around his time, so I'm thinking he's related in the way of being Benjamin's brother or cousin. I'm looking forward to figuring out the connection. I also have some names in this book that may or may not connect to Patrick's family.

So, as much as I WANTED to work on the cross stitch, it didn't happen. Time just kept getting away from me. I did get a lot done today, but not as much as I would have liked. I can try and get some done this weekend.

Mom's going to her friends for a BBQ on Monday. So, Patrick and I are on our own. I'm going to have to get used to that. Seems mom would rather spend holidays with others then with us. I don't blame her, because we always did something during the holidays. Now with dad gone, we don't play cards, or play games. And I don't think mom and I are ready to do that again for awhile.

It's been a good day. I'm getting a lot done, and thrilled I'm able to get so much done. How was your day? Get much done?

It's busy that keeps me Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Spent The Afternoon Volunteering With Mom

This morning I was up and getting supper ready for the crock pot. I knew I wouldn't be home till after 5:30 pm and really didn't want to cook when I got home.

Then I was out the door to head over to moms. I arrived about 9:15 am. The cleaning lady was there. While she cleaned we worked on getting a couple of mom's tops ready to be basted. I told her she should get one done to mail to Las Vegas. That way she has one to work on down there. She'll get it done pretty quick as she always does. We got 3 quilt tops ready and took them over to Kathleen Amendt to do them. We also stopped off at the doctors for mom.

When 1:30 pm arrived, we were at "Reborn." Mom was so beat that she took a nap while we were there. She fell asleep in the chair. We did get more stuff sold. Next week we will be going to a 75% off sale. They want to get everything sold. Hopefully we can do that. Mom and I have next Thursday again.

Came home and forgot I had a message from my phone telling me one of my books arrived.

I remembered a little bit ago and found it in my door. Funny part - it's Vol. 2! Vol. 1 comes tomorrow!!

While I was at Reborn I worked on the thread catchers, that I got 2 more done.

Now I have 7 of them done. I seriously need more color on these. I'll work on getting more fabrics with more colors downstairs. I will cut a few more tomorrow. I seriously need to get the box full and then I'll call it good. I just hope I can sell them in June. Otherwise I have a ton of thread catchers that I don't know what to do with.....on second thought, I could give them away next year in our bags. lol

I'm looking forward to going through the book to see who's related to us. I'm not sure this is my White line, but I know there is some of this line in the family as well.

Things are going good, still have moments, but I'm holding it a little better.

May we all be busy this weekend and stay Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

A Day Of Volunteering

Today I was up and ready to go. I had to be at "Reborn" (thrift shop) by 10 am. I went to "Love's" to get a gift card for Art at "Carl's." Then I stopped and got a chai tea.

On my way to Reborn! I arrived and the doors were not opened. The gal with the key showed up and said we were early. lol - Of course I'm going to be early. I like to be early when I work. We did really good today. Sold a lot of clothes. Trouble was that I found out they are closing the shop at the end of June. It's a shame because I'm enjoying myself there.

Came home and worked on my thread catchers. I finished 5 of them today. I did have to stop at Billie's in town to get more buttons. I spent $25 on buttons but none of them were over $1.50. I didn't want to be putting too much money into the catchers. This way, if I get 20-30 of them done, I can sell them at a good price. If the buttons cost over $2. then I would have to price them higher. I need to do more bright colors, because the ones I made are kinda dark and drab.

I had 10 of them in these colors. I really need to work on some blues, greens, and oranges. I bought enough buttons for 18. I have more buttons in my big container, so I'll use what I bought and then go through my "old" buttons. Hate to get read of some really old ones, but then again, what am I going to use them for?

I remember a time when you could get 6 or 12 buttons for one price. Now they come in 2 or 3. Guess that's the price of high pricing. With that thought, I'm glad I don't live in Seattle. They can't seem to account for their money and they tax the city. Most people can't live in Seattle anymore. Now I know why my cousins moved out of Seattle.

Enough said. Tomorrow I'm going over to moms and then we will be working at Reborn till 5 pm. It's going to be another busy day. I'm hoping to get a few more thread catchers done while I'm there. I have them in a bag with everything I need. I did get one done there today.

I was just getting ready to do some cross stitch but didn't get to it, because I needed to write one here. Too funny! I seem to need to do my blog before I start on my crafts. Who knows, maybe tomorrow I'll get some stitches in on the quilt at moms. Doubt it! lol

Life is good - for now. I have my moments with the loss of my father. I seem to get teary without knowing I would. I talk to people and I'm ok, I watch WDYTYA - and the tears come. I drive anywhere and the tears start.

Best wishes, Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Another Tuesday Bites The Dust.....

This morning I was up early. I had to be up by 8 am when Sandy stopped by. She brought me some of her chicken eggs. She has chickens and has a hard time giving her eggs away. So, I told her I would take some and so did Cherrill. I was still in my pj's when she came. lol

After she left, I took some eggs to Cherrill. We chatted about our genealogy. She was asking how ancestry works. I'm amazed that she doesn't know much about ancestry, but she's done about 3 books on her family tree with photos and everything. She's finding more information to add to her books. I really need to think about how I want to do a book. I'll work on it when I get a few more people added.

Came home and went downstairs to clean up my room. I need to clear everything off the counters and around them. I have to have it completely safe for cat and kids in the next week. I'll keep working on it. I did get a good start, then I had a "brain fart!" I decided to make some thread catchers to sell.

I saw this, and decided I could get a few of those made and then sell them at Seminar for our group. So, I cut out enough for 10 of them.

Sewed them up and then ironed them. I have a bag ready to take with me tomorrow to work on while I'm selling stuff at "Reborn." That will keep me busy. I think I'm going to get a hamburger for lunch tomorrow. lol - There is a really good stand that sells burgers right there by "Reborn." It's one of the best ones around.

Patrick came home early and we went to the casino to get our free "gift." This time it was the waffle iron!! I'm so thrilled. I really wanted that. It's a Belguin Waffle and I love those even more! We played for awhile. Then I took $20 of my money and tried a new machine. By the time I was done I had $60. So, I paid for supper tonight. lol

Then it was 9-pin no tap bowling. I bowled a 162, 222, 230, not bad! Patrick bowled a 300 game with only 3 strikes being 9 pin strikes. He had a 700 and something.

It's still a good day. We got a lot done. I got a message saying my books will be here Thursday and I'm thrilled! Can't wait to get them for my genealogy.

Best wishes and stay Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Had A Good Day With Brazilian Embroidery!

Today was our BFF meeting day! It turned out pretty good. We all sat around, working on our stuff, and chatting. I started out working on the flowers in the handle.

I really didn't want to get up this morning. I pulled myself out of bed and got ready to go. Cherrill came and picked me up. She dropped me off at the car repair shop. I picked up the car and went on over to our meeting.

I finished the handle stems. Then I started on the flowers. (more information on the embroidery blog.)

Came home and enjoyed the quiet. I watched "Who Do You Think You Are?" and got a little emotional when they were talking with their father. I wish I had dad to talk to. I do like being able to see other's families trees.

Then I finally got up and stitched the label on the QOV quilt that is done. NOW I can say I have a finish!

It turned out pretty good.

This is the labels that we use when we finish the quilts and give them out.

I was given some cross stitch magazines from Sandy (2). So, I spent part of the afternoon going through them to see what I wanted to keep. I only kept 5 out of all of them. I was surprised, but at least I found a few patterns I really like. I wanted to take them to our Seminar to sell, but realized they were given to me, and it's better to give to someone else. So, I'm going to take it to "Reborn" for them to give out.

Sun's out and things are still moving. This week I'm going to start cleaning up my craft room downstairs. I need to get everything put away for when company comes. We will be on vacation and then I will be off to Seminar. I won't have time to clean it up after I get back. All because family will be coming afterwards.

So, tonight I'm going to work on cross stitching and see if I can get a little farther with this piece.

Have a great day! Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

A Beautiful Quiet Day

Today was one of those nice days. No big hurry to do anything. So, I just enjoyed the day.

I did do laundry, as that is one thing I can't seem to get out of doing.

Patrick worked out in the yard, and I was in the house working on my cross stitching.

I was able to finish the "Spring" part and now I'm working on the (winter?) part. I just know it has "ER" on this part of May.

I'm really happy with the way it's coming along. I like how easy it is to work on - except for when I get off count.

I also finished the binding of the QOV quilt. Then realized I need to do the label on the back. So, I'll sew that on tomorrow and then show it as a "finish" for the year. It's nice to have a finish for the year. Hope I can get a few more before too much longer.

Hope you were able to enjoy your day as well. Keep being Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Went To The Movies Today

This morning we enjoyed the morning sleep in. Patrick slept in and I was up early.

Patrick worked out in the yard this morning before coming in. Then we headed out to the new "Dead Pool" movie. I liked the story line to it, but I hated the violence and "F**k" language every other word. Even the teenager that was in the movie was using bad language. I wouldn't be too thrilled if one of my children/grand children used that kind of language - in or out of a movie. I did like the movie as it went on, but when heads are torn off as well as other body parts, that's just too "gross" for me. I almost go up and left after the first 10 mins of the movie. Like Patrick said, it was a good thing there was a break in the violence or he would have been gone too.

We got home and Patrick went back out in the yard and worked on a few things.

Found these out in the yard. Our flowers are really going great!

This is my red Rhode and it's really pretty.

This is the one in the front yard.

Love how big these get. Trouble is with Rhode's is that they don't last long. But when they do bloom they are so pretty! And full!

So, while Patrick was out in the yard, I was binding the QOV quilt. I have a corner and about a foot to go. This is getting done. I should have it finished tomorrow and then I'll wash it. I need to get it over to Judy to take to the meeting in June. While I was doing this, I was watching "Who Do You Think You Are?" I'd love for someone to help me with my Taylor family.

Life is going....taking each day as it comes. Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!!

A Good Day Of Quilting!

🎵Happy Birthday, to me, Happy Birthday to me! 🎵

This morning I was up early to head out to moms. I got a free drink or food from Starbucks, so I went there and got myself a breakfast sandwich on them. I also got mom and me a Chai tea. Mom likes vanilla and I usually go for the cinnamon.

Got to moms by 8:30 am. I helped her with the coffee for everyone to come over. We had 7 of us there today. Nancy had a new hair cut. I was surprised she cut all her hair off. lol

I worked on Katt's Black and White quilt. I took a photo of what I had done to show Katt. I was telling her when she called that I was about 1/3 done. The more I look at it, I think it's only 1/4 done. She was happy at just the thought that I was working on it. Who knows, it may get to her by Christmas, but not counting my chickens just yet! While we were quilting I got a call from my brother and daughter wishing me a Happy Birthday. I really loved hearing from both of them!

Mom left for a little bit to go get Daisy. She was at the groomers and she was excited when she got back home. She had to check everyone out and then had to climb up on my lap.

We did good today. After everyone left, we came here. We were waiting on Patrick to get off work. Then we headed down to Longview to Panera Bread. I liked it for dinner tonight. I didn't want to eat seafood, just wasn't in the mood for it. Plus I think it's going to be hard taking mom there without dad. We then took mom back home. Mom and I got a little teary when I left. It is hard but we are getting through this.

While I was looking at my texts, I found this photo.

Made me smile! It's a photo my sister-in-law took. It was at the "farm" on Zenkner Valley. My folks had all these cats show up at their door for food. I think we counted 25 when this photo was taken. Hard to believe that was about 10 years ago. Most, if not all, where strays. They had to collect them and take them in before they sold the house.

And life moves on.

I had an awesome day. I even showed mom her family tree. She was also interested in dad's side. It was so much fun to show her.

So, I actually got some quilting done! I'm so thrilled that I was able to get more done on the quilt. It's looking good! What fun!

So, how was your day today? Have a great day?

I could hear my father saying to me, "Nah, your not that old, your only 29, so I'm not that old." I may be getting older - but I'm still Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

I Seem To Keep Busy

Yet another day of being busy. I seem to keep busy lately. I can't wait for June to get over (I know it's only May), then I can get back to breathing and relaxing. Right now it seems like I'm always on the run. I want to get a cat but can't till things calm down. So, after we put dad to rest, I'm hoping things slow down.

Today I was up and out the door - yet again. I had my doctors appointment, then went to see mom. We headed up to Costco. Mom got what she needed and I picked up a couple things as well. When we got back, I helped mom put some stuff away. She cleaned the freezer so she could find room for her new stuff.

After being with mom, I headed to Great Clips. I got my hair cut and feel a lot better.

Got home and Phillip came to see me. They got a hanging plant for Mother's Day. On top of that, they got me a box of Taylor's Tea. It's awesome. All kinds of different teas. AND IT'S TAYLORS! Wonder if they are any relations. lol I also got a baking sheet. Can't wait to try it out!

Our plants are growing!

This is our lilacs out our bedroom window! They are huge! 

Some of my Rhodes are going! I love the colors. We have a red one out in the yard as well, and it's looking great! I'll have to take a photo of it soon before it quits blooming.

After supper, I pulled out my pages of genealogy that need to be put into my records. I got to work on them. I've added another 200 names over the last two days. I have more to add. So, I'm going to finish today with more enters into the family tree.

Tomorrow is quilting at moms - and my quilt is already over there, so I'll be working on that tomorrow. Looking forward to being with friends and getting back to Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Two Busy Days

Yesterday was a busy day from the get go. I was out the door - being late because Patrick didn't wake me up like I asked - and was at moms by 7:45 am. I dropped my car off for her since she needed while her car was being worked on. Art met me at moms and brought me back to his place for breakfast.

After breakfast we were on the road to Yelm WA to get to Red Wing Casino. We spent the morning at the casino. I spent $50, so that's not bad since I was there for 5 hours. We were supposed to leave right away after lunch but then Art had more Keno games to go. We ended up staying another hour and half. Of course Patrick wasn't too happy because I was a half hour late. I went to moms - gave her a kiss and headed back out the door. I really wanted to stay and chat with her but couldn't because I was already late.

Got home and we were on our way to Lucky Eagle Casino to get our free gifts. This time it was the stick mixers. We got two of them. Then we stayed for a little bit before going to Diary Queen for supper.

After supper it was bowling! We are in the 9 pin no-tap league. I bowled a 265, 233, and 210. A 708 series!! We lost 3 games. The team we bowled had 115 pins more in handicap. Ouch!

This morning I was enjoying the day to myself.

I got caught up on some games. Then I pulled out the computer and started working on my genealogy. I have a ton of papers I printed with all the family information and wanted to get it in the computer. I've gotten back a long way.

My 9th great grandfather - Henry True - 1590-1660
My 9th great grandmother - Isreal Pike - 1618-1669
My 10th great grandfather - Wymond Bradbury - 1574-1650
My 10th great grandmother - Elizabeth Whitgift - died 1612
My 10th great grandfather - John Perkins - 1586-1654
My 10th great grandmother - Judith Gater - d 1654

Those tow last ones are the parents of my 9th great grandmother Mary Perkins - who was one of the last 2 people accused of Witchcraft during the witch hunts. It's really interesting how many I'm finding that have been in the witch hunts. PLUS I'm find a LOT of them are from the Mayflower! I'm really enjoying this. I just wish I could go this far back with my Taylor family. Dad and I tried to get back farther but we couldn't figure it out. Now, I'm sorry we couldn't because I can't share that part with him. At least I can share this side with my mother, as these are her family as well.

I really haven't had a chance to work on anything because I really want to enter as much information as I can from what I have.

Tomorrow is another day, and I will try to get back to being Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Another Hard Day - But A Good Day

The day started out a little later then usual. I enjoyed a good night sleep that I haven't had in a long time. I did enjoy the day to myself. It's been awhile since I've been able to stay home and enjoy the day.

I worked on the puzzle mom and I were doing yesterday. There seems to be a piece missing but won't know till I'm done. It's to the harder part of the puzzle.

I got the laundry going, putting a quilt in the wash. I had to dry it, so it's been drying on "delicate" for a couple spins. I need to move my close into the dryer now that I think of it. lol

I got a call from the Omnibusman  program at Mother Joseph's Rehab Center. I had to tell her what went on with dad while I was there with him. I had a hard time getting through that because I had to talk about him. She had started me off when she said she didn't want to make my Mother Day worse by calling then. I agreed with her, and knowing that upset me. We talked a good hour and I filled her in. THEN I got on my computer and my brother sent me a link to the "taps" for my father and his military friends - 6918th Taps Video - which got me tearing up again! We lived at Hakata Japan where this taps is remembering those we've lost. - Dad is now on that list...  The comment that really touched me was this - " Losing any one of our members hurts—but this one stings in particular.  Our condolences to the extended Taylor family." 

So, I took part of the day - in between the phone call and the email - I worked on my cross stitch. I'm getting "Spring" done. I'm so thrilled to see this much is done and can't wait to get more done. 

Tomorrow is going to be another busy day. 

I'm going to take a couple hours now and get some genealogy information into my family trees. I think I've added about 300 names over the last couple months. It's interesting at what I'm finding. I need to start putting this information into a book. I may do that with the records I have so far that I need to add to the trees. 

I hope everyone had a great day. Let me know what your working on! Would love to hear from you!

May we all stay Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching! 

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

Today is Mother's Day. I know this was hard for mom today, with dad being gone. She went to church and came over here. She said she cried in church. Understandable.

I was enjoying the morning. I opened my daughter gift to me. We texted each other. She gave me a really pretty ceramic tea cup that has the strainer and lid. I love it! Phil called and said my Mother's Day gift and Birthday gift will arrive on Thursday. He called and we had a really nice chat. I love them both so much!

Mom came over after church. We worked on my jigsaw puzzle. We got it 3/4 of the way done! I was thrilled. Mom was working fast, and I was connecting what she was connecting. We really went through the pieces together. We tend to get a puzzle done fast when we work together.

We fixed a turkey today. I gave mom a lot of the leftovers. She loves to make soup, so I gave her all the stuff for that. She makes the best soup. I'm almost thinking she's going to make if for Friday knowing her. We'll see.

Daisy found the quilt that I'm binding.

She was making herself comfortable on the quilt. She loved being here She's really getting used to being around here.

We watched an old movie and then mom left around 7:30 pm. Now I'm going to try and work on the cross stitching. I did get two sides done on the quilt. It's way too hot to keep working on it. We got up to the 80's and more today. Way too hot for me.

I'm hoping everyone had an awesome Mother's Day, as I did. I wish everyone a great day, Mother's or not.  Keep being kind and stay Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

It's Saturday Again!

Today was another busy day. We didn't do the casino round today. We went to moms and traded out her pots full of plants. She had some dead plants and others that had bulbs of what dad planted last year. So, Patrick gave her two tomato plants in the pots, with about three other pots full of flowers. If I knew what they were called, I'd say, but I don't. I'll take a photo of them the next time I go over. Mom's coming here tomorrow for Mother's Day.

Mom was having a hard day today. We tried to get her out of her slump. Mom and I took a walk around the area with Daisy. We had a good walk. She was doing really good walking. We checked out another area of the community. Then I found out that the secretary there had breast cancer and had a double breast removal. This really hasn't be a good year so far.

Patrick's dad is in the hospital as well. We have prayers going for him.

After visiting mom, we went grocery shopping. We picked up a lot of goodies. I had a lot of "free" coupons, and we got a lot of that as well.

Came home. I had a headache -first time in a long time.  Laid down for a little bit, then got up and worked on my bookkeeping. I couldn't get into the bank records for one of my accounts but will check on that later.

After that, I started working on the binding of the QOV quilt. I haven't gotten a lot done on it, but I'm getting there. I'm still working on the long side of the quilt side.

It's been a good day so far. Looking forward to Mother's Day tomorrow.

What will you be doing tomorrow for Mother's Day? Hopefully you'll have a great day! We'll all be having a good day if we can be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Even Though It Doesn't Look Like It........

That's right, even though it doesn't look like it, I actually got some stuff done. I cleaned up my room, and I worked on a few things. It doesn't look like a lot, but it feels like a lot.

This morning I was up and went over to chat with Cherrill. We hadn't chatting in awhile, so I spent a good 2 hours over there. She loves to talk and we had things to talk about.

Came home around 11 am. Had to fold my laundry - those awful white clothes (hate folding those!). I was enjoying the shows on TV when Patrick came home. He took half the day off. Just what I needed!! - NOT! So, he went outside and I went downstairs.

I started cleaning up my counter top. I was going through all my QOV fabrics and putting them neatly back in the container. I was so shocked to see it filled the whole container and then some! I need to weed that out! So, I'm going to try and get more done over the summer. UGH! I need to get the fabric down. I took the "scrappy" fabrics and started cutting them up. Throw out the small pieces that I didn't want to deal with, and cut the scrap fabric into squares. I'm going to take them to Seminar and try to sell them. I know there are quilters in that group as well. I did 3" and 2" squares. They are in a baggie and ready to go!

I have been adding what I'm going to take to sell in this bag. It will be easier to carry. At least for now they will be out of the way.

My counter was full of this and more. I put all this away. Then I looked to see if there was a lid to this container and realized this was moms. So, no lid. Hopefully she will find it later. If not, Patrick can use it in the garage.

My table looks a lot better. I have an empty shoe box I can't decide what to do with. I like it and it's a good box to keep. So, empty and still on the counter.

Then I started to work on the bags again. I got this far on the first one. Decided it was time to eat, so called it quits.

Not before I got the binding on the quilt.

Used the backing fabric for the binding. That way it framed the QOV quilt that I made. I'm now going to stitch the binding on and get it washed before taking it to Judy to take up to the meeting next month.

I didn't get a chance to work on the blocks for another quilt top for QOV. I'm happy with what I've done so far.

I even got a few pieces in on the jigsaw puzzle I'm doing. So, all in all, I did a lot, but it just doesn't look like it. When I clean, it does look like I clean, but there is a lot of work there.

Mom called and she couldn't find her phone. I called the phone and she heard it, so she was calling her phone for awhile so she could find it. Apparently she threw it in the trash by her chair, so she dug it out. We laughed about that.

I have a few things I want to do. I may get them done yet. We'll see. I hope you have been as busy as I have or more so. Would love to hear about your cleaning, if you wish to share.

We can all be Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Yet Another Thursday Has Come And Gone

Today I was up earlier than usual. I really didn't want to sleep in today...go figure. I was up and moving. Then out the door......

Arrived at  mom's at 9:30 am. Took her dog for a walk so she could go to her hair appointment. She was out the door. Then she told me she would meet me at Dian's which as a surprise because last night she said she'd come back and we'd go to together to Dian's. I was to meet her there at 11 am. Her cleaning lady was there and we talked. She talked about her family and we had a good long chat. I played while she chatted. I took my tablet with me. 😁

I then headed over to Dian's where I met up with mom and Dian. She was cleaning mom's featherweight sewing machine. Mom was having trouble with the foot pedal. Dian was cleaning it up when I arrived. It was fun watching her clean the machine. I was saying how I love the featherweight machines. I used to take moms with me all the time when I had classes. Mom needed to get it working again so she could finish her quilt top (Double Wedding Ring) that she was doing in a class. Now she can finish her quilt top. Dian said she had a lot of machines that she's been collecting and cleaning. We made a deal so I could get one or maybe two of them. I'm happy. I'll have to work for it but I'm willing!

Mom took us to lunch. When we went back to moms, she gave me a stack of purples and the blocks she was making.

I know not all these are mine! So, now I'm going to have to clean up my quilt room again and get this all put away! Not what I was hoping for, but I will get this put away. Not too thrilled about it, but that's okay.

That bag on top was all these 9 patches. 188 total! I believe they are 4" squares. Now I need to get them put together. For some reason mom thought if she made these, I'd finish it into a quilt top. I don't remember that conversation, but she handed them over and said, "There you go." I said, "ugh?" Then she told me I said I would finish them. Brain was saying, "Uh, Nope. I don't quilt remember?!"  But my mouth said, "Oh, I thought you were doing this......Okay, I guess I can do this." Guess mom is really, really, really, trying to keep me quilting. Um, Um, Um, now what?! I have been working on two that I need to finish, and now to add another one, that didn't help......

Came home and the State Health Dept called me. I had called to make a complaint about dad's care at the Rehab Facility. She called and asked a lot of questions. I told her what about what went on while I was there and I told her how we tried to get better care for him. Mom wants to go after the doctor, and while I was talking to her, she told me they will investigate both the doctor and the facility for what happened. So, I will find out when they are done, to see if it could have been prevented. I told her dad wouldn't want me to sue but he would want me to make sure it didn't happen to anyone else. I'm going to try and get that for him. It will be interesting to see what they find out.

The day was good. I decided to sit here and work on my cross stitch since I didn't get any stitches in on it for about 5 days now. I really want to get this month done! I have more to do and want to get moving on it. Two projects need to be worked on and that is only in cross stitch!!

*Spring* is finally done. Now I'm working on the flower that goes next to it. It's fun. I'm enjoying this. I just wish I didn't have so much to do. I have the binding to do on the QOV quilt, and really need to work on that too. I'll try and do the binding tomorrow. I want to get it out of the house and on it's way. One less thing to worry about.

As you can tell, my brain is going from one thing to the next and back again. I'll just keep working on it!

So, how many things do you have going? Getting any of them done or worked on? Would love to hear from you! Stay Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Didn't Really Know What To Do Today.......

What a day. It was "my" day. I am behind on so much, that when it came down to it, I didn't know what to do! I couldn't decide if I just wanted to play games, go downstairs, or clean the house. So, I did a lot of each one of them.

First I played games, then I vacuumed. I really needed to get the house vacuumed. I'd been away for so long, that it was driving me nuts!

Then I went downstairs and turned the heater on. It was a cold day for us today. Hard to believe since it was in the 70's the last couple days. Today I think it was in the 60's. Too cold for me. I then pulled out  my computer to try and do another YouTube piece. I did one, but I didn't know how to edit it or add stuff. So, for a good hour I was watching YouTube to see how to do it. THEN I changed the setting and can't figure out how to get it back to recording me. I have a blank screen. Fun part is trying to figure out how to get it back. Gave up......after that long of figuring things out, decided I was fed up.

Went downstairs.

Counted 15 blocks done. I have more to do, and will work on those later. I have to do more squares to get more done. I'll work on that probably Friday.

I sewed the bottom corner squares together (4 of them). I like the way it came out. I need to get this sewn together and done. I seriously need to finish this! It will be a finish I greatly need. I think I need to do more black squares as well. Plus a few more blocks to put together. I'm going for three triangles in the middle and two on both sides. We'll see how this goes. It's going to need to get done! It's been sitting there for at least 2 years now. LOL - Guess that tell's how quick I do stuff! 

What is the longest project you've done? Mine so far has been 20 years. Too long!

It's still keeping up with being Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Amazing What All I Did Today....Rare!

Today was an amazing day for me. I actually did more things today then I've done in a very long time. I even finished a project!! I'm so thrilled!

I was up and out the door by 9:30 am. I was a little late to our Brazilian Embroidery meeting, but that's okay, there isn't a time clock on each of us. We had about 6 of us show up. I pulled out my "Three Wishes" tea pot. I was able to get a few things done on that as well. It took me a little while to figure out what I needed to do, and now that I do, it will go pretty quick.

I finally pulled mom's needle case that I started before Christmas. It has been sitting there for a long time. I decided it was time to finish it and get it off my "WIPs." I finally finished it, and it's ready to go.

I had to take part of it out because I only put 1 of the "D" rings in. After it was all done, I realized what I did wrong. On top of that, I forgot how it was put together, and actually put a part on that should have waited till I had the sheets done. Oh, well, it still came out! lol

Before I started to finish that, I worked on the QOV quilt top. It's the Layer Cake - Disappearing Hour Glass pattern. I've got 9 blocks done so far.

Finished 2 more after I took this photos. I have found it easy and fun to do. My points are looking good. I like the way this has been coming out. I also realized the busier the fabric, the less one can see the pattern as well.

I also got a few piece in on my puzzle.

So, all in all, I got quiet a bit done today. I finished 5 blocks, and that was fun. I finished mom's needle case and that's big too!

I'm excited about finishing this quilt top for QOV. I've even been thinking of doing this pattern for myself as well - Yep! You heard me right, I'm thinking of doing one for myself. Me, the one that doesn't like to sew on the sewing machine! I was surprised myself. Now, let's see how long this lasts - the idea of finishing a quilt for myself....that is going to be really interesting!

What did you do today? Anything exciting? Would love to hear!

Keep it up and stay Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

It Turned Out To Be A Good Day!

This morning I was lazy. Didn't get dressed or even changed clothes till late morning.

This afternoon was a good day! I went downstairs and started working on my stuff. I decided to work on my bags first, that was a big mistake! It took me almost 2 hours to get the one done. All because of the heavy plastic that I put in the inside. It was one of those things where I had to decide if I was going to do a french seam or not. As it turned out - NOT! I did try to do the french seam but it was way too much work to get to it.

I did get 2 done, but they took way too much time. I was hoping to get them done a lot faster. After I did the 2nd one, I decided to call it quits with the bags - and I think the next couple bags are going to be without the plastic.

So, then I decided to get back to the QOV quilt top. I wanted to try and get another top done for them. So, I worked on those blocks.

I sewed the pieces together to make the hour glass blocks. I got quiet a few done actually. They are ironed and ready to go.

Then I cut one of the blocks up and sewed it up as well.

This is the end result. I really do like this pattern. It's pretty easy to do. I was really surprised at how well the went together - and if you look close enough, my corner match!! That has always been one of my problems. Now I'm happy to say, this didn't have any of those problems. If it stays this easy, then I may make more tops yet! I really do like this pattern, and it works best with fabrics that are close to solids.

I roasted my veggies. That was a good meal!

I did get a few stitches in on my cross stitch. I'm really pleased with the way that's coming. Almost done with my April part. I'll post a photo on Instagram tonight.

I hope you had a great days as well. Did you get any stitching or quilting done? Doesn't it feel awesome when you do?!

One more day gone and I'm still staying Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching