Mom's 91st Birthday

This morning, we were up early. I couldn't believe how slow the day went. At least the morning seems to take forever to move. 

I worked on my cross stitch after getting some cleaning done. 

I worked on it for a while before it was time to go to moms. We took some fabric for the quilts her and Georgie were working on. I brought one home. We also took mom so flowers from the garden and 2 pots of flowers for her front door. She was happy to get them. We sat and talked to her for an hour or more. She was telling us about Nancy having heart issues. She's supposed to go to the cardiologist on Tuesday. Mom's doing a lot better. She looked good today. I will probably stop and get some cupcakes for her Birthday tomorrow. Our meeting can celebrate as well. 

We stopped at Safeway and I got some food for supper. I bought the chicken and tatter tots. It was good, but I needed something less greasy after I was done. 

Then I played my war games and beaded.

I was able to get 2 of the 5-star points done. It's fun to do. I will work on more. I'm not sure how many I need to make for a tree, but our small tree would do with about 10 of them. lol - Which means I have a ton to make. I may change the colors after 10 each. It takes about a day to do them, and I only worked on them this evening. It was a 2 for 1 day! That's how I stay Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Back To Some Beading

This morning, I wanted to sleep in but couldn't. 

Got up and played my war games for a bit and then got some laundry in. 

Once that was going, I listened to my audiobooks and watched a YouTube video on the 3D beaded star ornaments. I wanted to do another one or two.

I was able to get this done today. It took all afternoon, but it was fun to do. I have decided I will do more. I think my tree will look great with these. I may have to make a couple sets for my kids as well. It is the size of a quarter or just a little bit bigger. I think it looks cute. I have other ones that are bigger, and I did the bigger one for Katt a couple years ago. She may need more, so I may do those for her as well. 

Something fun to do, even though it takes time. Plus, it turns out to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Now To Remember What I Did Today

I didn't want to get up this morning. Lately it's more fun to just stay in bed. But I am always up by 8:30 am now anyway. 

I enjoyed an hour before Patrick came in from golfing. When he got home I took my walk. Got in 7 laps which is 2.39 miles. Not bad. Then I was waiting to see when 1:30 pm came round because I had the war game, I'm still in. Before the game started, I worked on my cross stitching. 

After the war game was over, Patrick and I went to the old Sunbirds and got some flowers baskets for our deck. We also picked up a couple plants for mom for her Birthday (Sunday) and Mother's Day. We filled the car up and it swelled wonderful! lol 

Then came home and got a few more things done before I got back to my cross stitching. 

We have a bird that loves to chirp at us while the screen door is open. So, I was going to take the picture, and as I clicked the photo, it flew away. He doesn't seem to mind us being around. It's fun. Maybe next time he will be in the photo!

I was able to work on the right side some more. I am getting closer to the face. I will be getting more done this weekend. I've decided I need to finish this and get it off my list of things to do. I will then pull out my cat beading and work on it. They both need to be finished. I enjoyed working on the right. Sophie was trying to help me from time to time but didn't work. She's been in my lap more than usual lately. I was still able to enjoy being Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Thursday - Not My Favorite Day

Was up early this morning. Had a phone call from Kaiser and I'm having to go back in for my HPV16 virus showing up. 

Then I relaxed and played games. I didn't feel like playing the 1 pm game today, so wasn't in either groups. I do have the challenge tomorrow at 1:30 pm and looking forward to that. 

I really didn't do much all day. I was answering calls, texting and just trying to enjoy the peace and quiet. Patrick worked out in the yard. 

It's about time I finish this up! So, I pulled it out and worked on the right side. I'm getting closer. It's taking time, but I really do enjoy working on it. I wish I had thought about it sooner today to get more done. 

So, as lazy as I was, I was also Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Casino Wednesday

This morning, we left around 10 am. I needed to pick up a quilt from the church and then we went to the casino, like we do every Wednesday. 

We arrived around 10:30 am and left around 5:00 pm. We spent most of the day there. Partly because we wanted to get a pizza and they don't open till 4 pm. As usual, we played our favorite games and a couple we haven't played in a long time. One of them we figured doesn't pay as good as the others, so we didn't stay there very long. We got so far ahead that we were able to play on that money for a couple hours. We actually came home with the money we lost last week, so we are still ahead and "even" as far as that goes. Patrick wasn't feeling that great, but he did pretty good. The bigger wins were his, and the smaller ones were mine. Some of the bonus' didn't get a big pay out, but it's enough to keep us playing. When we were way ahead, we decided to play a couple hundred at $5.88, which I choke on when we do. It says you get a better chance at getting the wheel. Here's a good hint - DON'T DO IT. The bonus never came. When you bet higher, the less chances of you getting a bonus as often as if you played less. When we went back down, we hit the bonus right off. The "hook" is to make you want more chances at getting the bonus, but in reality, you don't get them. One keeps hoping it will "hit" and it doesn't. I watched one guy play low, up his bid, win, up his bid again, win, and then go for $10 a spin. He lost $200 in a blink of an eye. Then he got out. I see more people (mostly elderly ladies) win big with a 50 cent bet. They sit there all day and win or they sit there all day and loss. Sometimes I have more fun watching the players then actually playing. Depending on the day. 

The ones I hate are the ones that see us playing together. They come up and ask if they can play on the machine I'm sitting on. If there is a sit next to Patrick, I will let them, but some are RUDE and want me to move when there isn't a chair on the other side of Patrick. Not only that, when I tell them they can take the chair next to me and play, they get pissed off and leave. I found that they want the game we are playing on, and they will see if I will move. I had to stand one time, and then we left. Sure enough the gal moved into the game we were playing. She wouldn't stop playing the game I was sitting at. So, after a half hour of standing we left. I won't do that again. If they want my chair they will have to have a place for me to sit before I will give it up. I should say, "Are you serious? Where am I going to sit if I give it to you?" That's life I guess. People have become ruder over the last few years. Common curtesy is out the window. 

We have been home a bit and I'm enjoying my games. I even went to listen to some of the people I play with in the war game. It's fun to hear their voices. I enjoyed it. But I didn't take time to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Took The Day Off! LOL

 Okay, so I'm not working, just retired. 

Which means I can do whatever I want to. So, I slept till about 9:30 am. Patrick got home around 10:30 from golfing. So, I was getting laundry going - and this time I really did do laundry. 

Then I went for my walk. I should have eaten or drank something before I went, but I didn't. So, I texted Patrick to bring me water. I ended up doing a lap before he came out with the water. I then did 2 more laps and called it done. I was able to get 6 of 7 laps. I just couldn't do the 7th lap because my body wasn't happy with me. 

I got a call from Bryan and took it. He was asking me to get some information for him. I don't do AI and I don't want to add that to my computer. So, I wasn't much help. 

Then Debbie and I went to DB to get some coffee. I got hot tea for me and peach tea for Patrick. We talked about get a group for the Muckleshoot tribe. We now have a contact for them. 

Came back home and just played games. Patrick was sleeping on the couch and I let him. If I moved too much, I would wake him. So, I spent the day "off." I didn't go anything at all. I did get my forms ready for the fair this year. I'm going to be judging again this year. 

And that's what a day off is like - Nothing special, just lazy! And not Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Almost Done

This morning, I had to go down and cut batting and backing to take to Colleen this afternoon. 

I was out the door and at moms about 10 minutes late. Sandy from Ocean Shores beat me to moms. We had a good visit with everyone. I was working on my rose piece. Mom and Georgie were asking about the quilts they are working on and are almost done with. 

 I worked on the beadwork on the leafy areas. The right side is almost done. I have the top and left side to do. Then it's done! It looks a little better than I thought it would. I'm liking it more the more I get done. 

Was a block from Colleen's when Debbie called asking where I was. Told her at Colleens and she sent me off to the museum. The museum is closed and Ted's cousin was waiting for me. I was there in about 10 minutes. He gave me 15 applications for quilts. As I was getting ready to enter them, I found that they are from the Muckleshoot (sp) tribe in Auburn WA. So, I'm waiting to see what we will do. We contacted a quilt group up there that can handle them. Now we have applications for them. Debbie is going to get that done for us. So, I'm holding on the applications. 

Stopped at Colleen's and picked up a quilt. Dropped off the quilt I got from mom today. So, chatted for a bit and came home. 

Got home and Sophie was wanting attention. Once I got started with her, I didn't feel like doing anything else. I have more to work on, just need to get moving on them. Gave mom my quilt kit. Came home with some green fabrics that she didn't want to deal with since they were in a bag. I was okay with that, since some of it was mine. 

I'm just happy that today turned out better than yesterday. I'm back to Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

I Have Been Trying!!

Today, I was up early. The sun was up really early and that wakes me up before I want to get up. Patrick doesn't like to sleep in the dark (MAN! Do I miss that!!) so we get the sun coming in every morning. Better when it's raining, then I can sleep longer. lol 

I got laundry going - just one load because I forgot I started laundry today. Anyway, I worked on my family history. I worked on the BROWN side of my family and was surprised at how far back I was able to go. But it wasn't on the other BROWN branch that I really wanted to research. Chances are they will hook up eventually. I spent the afternoon and added about 50 more names to my tree. 

Then I decided to work on my beading......and work on my beading......and UGH!

Do you see?! I took the ✔ off, then I tried to fix it. And I tried to fix it and fix it. I ended up with less done than I had yesterday! I spend a good 2 1/2 hours trying to get another V done. Yea, nope! I may have to just start all over and see if I can do it without stopping. Then I can try and figure out what I did wrong on this one. How in the world can this be hard?? Photos of every step, step by step. I get this far, take a break and I'm so confused my brain needs cleaning out! OH! I know!! Find something else for an ornament!! Dang!!

So, as much as I would love to say I had fun. I didn't! I took out more than I put in. So, in no way was I Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Interesting Day

 This morning, I couldn't go back to sleep, so was up at 7 am. I woke around 4 am and kept waking up every few minutes. So, gave up after a while. 

I was enjoying the morning, by playing games when Patrick reminded me of the Zoom meeting with QOV state coordinator. Our President was also in the meeting. She talked about the changes and what to expect in the next year. I didn't realize it was her that became President of QOVF. She's with my old group in Olympia. She's also an attorney. So, we are in good hands. Cindy talked about how things were going for WA. There was only 6 of us today. Cindy said 13 came to her Zoom yesterday. I was going to, but we were coming back from the casino, and I didn't get back in time. 

After that, I went for my walk. This time, I made it to 7 laps. Then we went to Safeway to pick up a few things we needed. It's amazing how expensive it's getting at the grocery store. For what we got, a year ago, we could have paid about 2/3's of what it cost today. Patrick had to look over the receipt because he couldn't believe we spent that much. We were also talking about how gas here in WA has jumped to $5.65 a gallon from $4.90 last week. One of the gas stations had it at $6 a gallon. Prices are getting really bad. I don't know how those who go from paycheck to paycheck can afford gas. A lot around her commute to Olympia or Tacoma for work. That is getting expensive for them as well. 

Came home and I played my games. I wanted to play for a while. Then when my tablet ran out, I charged it and tried to get back to my ornament. I can't believe how confused I got with this piece. 

I was making the bind in the V, and for some reason, I couldn't remember what to do. I checked the book that has the pattern, and I tried again. I only got this far! I took that ✔ area apart so many times, I had to finish my thread and tomorrow I will start a new on. The thread was splitting so much that I had to take it out to fix it. Just not my day to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

War Game And Casino

 This morning, I could only get 6 laps in on my walking. My watch said I did 1.99 miles. lol I should have walked a few more steps for 2 miles. lol 

At 1:30 pm we had our war game with all the kingdom players. Or at least 1200 players. We are trying to see who's the best - and it's not me. lol I ended up playing against Sux who is in my alliance. It's funny really. I didn't realize it till I saw her big castle. My team beat hers though. We came in second. 

After it was over, we headed to the casino. Patrick wanted to play and was waiting on me. We got to the casino around 3:45 pm. We played till 8:30 pm. It was fun. We won some and lost some. Luck was on our side, but we wanted to keep playing. So, instead we lost $200. Not much compared to what we have from winning the last month and a half. No skin off our noises. It fun and it's something we like doing. We don't do much in the way of travel or spending money. Patrick and I just don't buy a lot. This way, I can spend what I want and don't have to leave it to my kids. lol

Got home and now it's time to listen to my audiobook and look forward to sleeping in. EXCEPT I have a zoom meeting at 10:00 am with QOV. Not looking forward to it, but I will attend. 

In otherwards, I was NOT Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Okay, It's Thursday - Getting Stuff Ready

This morning, Patrick was golfing and I was sleeping in. 

When I got up, I had to get moving. I played my game for a bit, then got a text about coming over to pick up a kit. I told Colleen I would be walking for 30 minutes, but she's welcome to come. Just as I finished my 6th lap, she was here. I'm glad I was able to get 6 laps in. I was getting into my audiobook as I was walking. I'm surprised at liking what I'm listening to. I usually don't do werewolves or vampires, but this is more comical then bloody or gory. 

Colleen and I went downstairs to find fabrics that go with the 2 kits we had. She's going to give it to a volunteer to work on. So, we were trying to make things easy for her. I don't know if she will do them or not. She didn't do the one she had for 6 months. It will be interesting. Colleen wanted to practice on some quilts. I gave her 3 of mine that were done 20 years ago and told her I don't care what she does with them. She can do whatever she wanted. I would pay her for doing them. There is so much she can do and a couple of those quilts will be good practice for her. 

After she left, I got busy and getting the quilt I bought a couple years ago, together for mom. It's the quilt she wanted to buy till I told her I already had it. 

It's the Birds in a Garden kit. I loved the pattern but lately couldn't figure out when I would ever do it. So, when mom said she wanted to do it for a Birthday gift, I told her, I bought it and she's more than welcome to do it for me. That's gift enough. 

I boxed it all up and have it ready to go. I even put a label tag on the box and the binder with the pattern. It's labeled "Lynn's Bird's in a Garden Quilt Kit" so there is no misunderstanding that it's my quilt. If anything happens to mom, I want to be sure to get it back. 

Once all that was done, I got the Roomba going and had it cleaned the hallway and living room. The rest of the time I was working on laundry. I was keeping busy till about 3:30 pm and then called it a day for doing anything. While I was moving things around, my beads spilled out of the travel case - that I didn't zip up! So, I was thankful that I didn't have a lot out of the tubes. 

Now it's late, and I'm about done for the day. I wasn't sewing or stitching, but I was getting quilts and things organized. At yet that doesn't count for being Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Our Weekly Trip To The Casino

This morning, I needed to get up to Olympia for my doctor appointment. I had to get my "female test" done today. I have been positive over the last 3 years with HPV virus. The last one was fine. I had to do another test today to see if it shows up again and if it does, then I have to do a biopsy. I learned a lot more today about the HPV tests. It's the test they do to see if cancer is coming. It is normally dormant. It was described like chick pots. It's something you have in your body but may or may not because an issue. So, with all the tests, it's a monitoring factor. I have to do this every year till it goes dormant again and then 3 years later. It's a waiting game, at this point. BUT it is something we all should pay attention to. I have lost several friends to ovarian cancer that I won't ignore it. So, I will find out in a couple weeks if I have to go back and get a biopsy to make sure it's not active. Or if I'm lucky, it went dormant and I won't have to go back for a couple more years. Again, we can hope. 

Then we went to the casino on the way home. We were there about 4 hours. Patrick needed to be back home for his doctor's call on his cancer. So, we spend time playing and believe it or not, we were getting tired of playing, so we came home earlier than we would have. We came home with another big amount of money. Patrick won over $1,000 on a bonus. We didn't have to fill out a tax form, which was great. But we did win another Major bonus. So, like I said, we came home with more money they we took. Still playing on our winnings, but this time added to the winnings. Funny how that works. I know our luck is bound to run out. 

Sophie wanted attention, so she sat with me for a while. 

Then I started playing my match game. Seeker's Notes. I didn't get the icon from the last month's challenge, but I'm working on getting this one. I also need to go in my war games and sign up for WOW tomorrow. I'm not sure who I'm going to play with yet. 

I was thinking how funny it is, that I can play slots for hours, and yet I come home and play more games. I'm just a junky when it comes to games. If my family was here, we would be playing cards or board games. 

Nope, today didn't make it to Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

A Day At Home For A Tuesday

This morning, I got busy and started laundry. I was happy to have today at home. I seem to be going places all the time lately. We were talked about all the appointments we have, and after next week, we don't have another one scheduled till June. That will be nice!

I played my games and then pulled out my beading to work on. 

  I don't think about taking photos as I go. I finally got this far with the correct beads. I had almost 4 "V's" done when I realized it wasn't looking right. So, I cut 2 of them off and got back on track. It takes a bit for me to figure out what I'm doing sometimes. The beads going up and down on this tend to change. Sometimes I use 3 beads and other times I use 4 beads when I turn the piece. Oh, then there is the time I only use 1 bead. So, each time I have to think of where I am on this, and what I need to do with the beads. I don't mind; it's coming a little easier. I had to take the point of the last row I was working on. I am working on what I need to do to get it to come back down. Now worries, I'm getting there. 

We watched TV together. While we were sitting (I was listening to the audiobook) this afternoon, the cable company came and dug a "ditch" for the cable cords that they were replacing. They hand dug a row around the garage and through the back yard to get it connected to the house. After that, it was watching TV. 

Val dropped off a quilt that is finished. Then Jo and Colleen wanted to come over tomorrow, but I have my doctor appointment in the morning and then we will go to the casino on the way home. So, I told them both Thursday would be a good day to come. 

I'm finding myself getting back to enjoying Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Power Outage Yesterday - Usual Monday Today

Yesterday was one of those days. I decided no matter what, I needed to get the quilt top done and off to Colleen. So, after playing a few games, I went downstairs to get to work on it. 

The top and bottom stars fit perfectly. Then when it was time to add the sides, they were off about an inch or two. So, I had to rethink how to get this done. The red was a "pop" and worked great. So, then I called Patrick down to help me out. 

So, I added a blue on the sides to give it a little better connection to the panel. Once that was decided, I put it all together. Then I realized I needed a couple inches on the top and bottom. So, I added a 2 1/2" border around it. Now it's done and ready to go to the quilters. I got a message from Kelsey saying she would take the quilts to quilt. I hooked her up with Colleen, so she could get the quilts to quilters since Kelsey can't get them till next week. 

I loaded the laundry with the backing material that goes with the 3 quilt tops I had. Then I put them in the wash. I had 2 backing together that made it to the dryer. The washer and dryer were working till 6:30 p.m.

Once all that was going, I sat down after supper and played on my tablet. I wasn't on it an hour when the power went out. From 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm, we had no power. Patrick and I heard the pop when the generator blew, but we didn't realize it was in our neighborhood. With no power, I listened to my book for as long as I could in the dark and then decided to call it a night. 

This morning, I was up and ready to go. I got in the car to head to moms, got halfway to town and forgot the quilts for Colleen. Turned around and came back. I had to get the backing out of the wash, since the power outage caused the laundry to stop in its tracks. I called mom to let her know I was running behind but she didn't answer, left a message. Went to the post office and then Dutch Brothers for drinks. They gave me a coffee drink - UGH!! - and I had to turn around and go back to get the Chai tea I wanted. I kept the coffee and gave that to Gerilyn when I got to moms. 

Georgie and Bonnie were waiting on me. I unlocked the door and moms house was black. I went down the hall with Georgie to see if mom was alright. I heard Georgie say something, then I pulled the blankets and mom turned to look at me. She asked what time it was and I told her. I also told her she scared the shit out off all of us! 

We worked on our projects. 

Since I didn't have the bead wire for the beads on the rose piece, it took me awhile to get back to this one. I will go back over all that and I have to do the other flowers as well. 

After everyone left, mom showed me a quilt she wanted to do for me. I told her I had that kit. She was going to pay for each month and I told her I had it all. She can do it. It cost me $400 and I was wondering when I would ever get to get. 

I took a picture of it and sent it to her to let her know it was the same one. 

Everything she needs is here. So, I will drop it off with her and she can work on it. She said she wanted to do this one for my Birthday, and I told her that would be great. I have all she needs for it. Too funny!! 

Came home and tried to get the computer working again. It took Patrick a good hour to figure out what the problem was. 

The cable company is coming tomorrow to dig up the yard to put the cable wires in. That will be about 9 am. Should be interesting. 

So, now I'm done for the day. At least yesterday and today I was Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

A Very Quiet Day

This morning, I headed into town to pick up a few things. While I was at it, I got Patrick and Phil a drink from Dutch Brothers. 

Came home, and then pretty much tried to play a couple games. I was in the war game, when my brain didn't want to understand what I was reading. It happens from time to time but is rare. Dyslexia is complicated and hard to explain at times. So, when I get flustered, I close up. I can't comprehend what I'm reading. That's when I feel like an idiot. So, instead of continuing to play, I just shut down the game and find something else to do, till I can get my brain back on track. It doesn't last long, but it does get me confused at what I'm reading. I think that's why I like to listen to books rather than read them. I need to read more, but too lazy at times to do that. Now, I know I need to read a book, to help me get back to reading what is written and not what my brain thinks is written. Again, hard to explain. I'm thankful I can read to a college level. Not thankful for the times it shows its ugly head and I'm confused. Thank goodness it only happens about once a year and if I'm lucky, less than that. It's been a while since I had a hard time reading what everyone was up to. I do find I'm asking Patrick what some words mean more often, so I know I need to get back to reading books instead of listening to them. 

So, I spent the day playing match games or even seek and find games. I just didn't feel like doing anything today. Go figure. I did go back to my game later tonight and had fun. Was back on track and enjoying my game. 

I really didn't feel like doing much at all. I was lazy and just sat around doing NOTHING. Seriously, nothing! I wanted to do the quilt downstairs but couldn't go down and work on it. I have to cut the backing and batting tomorrow! No excuses there! Hopefully tomorrow will be more like having fun with my quilting. Fingers crossed tomorrow will be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Day At The Casino

 We were up early because I had to go to Olympia to get an X-ray of my chest. We also had to stop and get Patrick's blood drawn. So, we were out the door by 8:45 am to get gas and head up to Olympia. 

We then went to the casino and were there by 11:45 am. We played our favorite games. It was interesting because we won 2 MAJOR bonus - over $900. Then we also won big prizes in the bonus rounds. We came home with a lot more than we went with. At first, we thought we would have to going to have to cash out some money to play awhile. Since we had planned to eat at the pizza place in the casino. As it ended up, we didn't have to after all and we started winning. The winning didn't stop. We finally called it done because we both were tired of playing around 4:30 pm. Had pizza, brought home the gift (weed whacker x2). 

Came home and I just wasn't in the mood to do any more beading. I will have to go downstairs tomorrow and get the quilts ready for Monday. I also need to finish the one on the wall. 

Once this is done, I can put the other one together that was started. I need to work on the other panel. I hope I didn't give it to mom. 

On the way home, she called all confused on what to do with the blocks that Val gave her. I don't think she's reading the instructions. But then again, at 91 years old, she's "losing it" because she's not as sharp as she was before. She could do what those instructions tell her to do, in her sleep, when she was younger. Now, she has a hard time figuring out how many blocks are needed to finish a quilt. I will have to spend time with her on Monday to get it all straightened out. Val was doing that on Wednesday when they took the blocks. She explained everything, and both mom and Georgie said, "I can do that." Then I get the call that, NOPE, she can't do that. We told her I don't know how many time what to do, but she was confused. So, now I have to spend time with her on Monday to show her what she "got" on Wednesday. 

It was a good day for us. But not a day to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Back To My Beading - Ornaments

 Today, we both slept in. Patrick wasn't feeling all that well, so stayed home from golfing. 

I played my games for a bit, then cleaned the house. Had a couple loads of laundry going and vacuumed the house. Amazing how much cat hair as well as my own hair that comes up in the vacuum cleaner. UGH

Then I played for an hour in the war games with my "alliance." 

Once I was done with that, I plugged my tablet in and looked for a beading ornament for this year. I started on a star one, but it was so complicated that I couldn't get it right. I took it apart and will try to work on it later. I was having to "knot" it and think I did a knot too many. Tried twice. 

So, I went looking for another pattern. I decided to try this one. It's a little prettier in my opinion. It has 2 parts to this one, so I'm going to do both parts the same color. Katt wanted white and silver/gold.  I will do one and see if I want to use 2 colors or not. If I like making these, then that will be this year's ornaments. 

Bryan called and I chatted with him for a bit. Then I sent him the family history on the Campbell family that I have. 

I got the certificate ready to mail and I talked with Debbie on getting her sister to do the scheduling for QOV. She said she would try it out. I hope she will do them for us. We will see how it goes. 

I'm so tired of people getting offended when we make changes. They are changes that need to be done. Donna knew from the start we were looking for a veteran to do the job. We tried a couple of them but wasn't too thrilled with the ones we tired. It's so frustrating. I don't do it to hurt people, but I do it to honor the veterans in the best way we can. The veterans are my priority, and I have made that clear to everyone. Oh, well. 

At least I found the time and enjoyed Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Sewing Day For QOV

This morning, Patrick went golfing and I got up to get ready for company to work on our QOV projects. 

I went downstairs and was getting things ready for sewing. Everyone arrived around 10 am and we worked all the way to 3:30 pm. Mary stayed a bit longer to help me with the panel quilt 

We had about 3 or 4 quilts going at once. They were all ones that were started but not finished. We did get one finished that needed a border to it. This quilt, we were able to get 9 of the 11 rows done. We will finish it up on the next sew days. This one has been going since the sew days in February. We didn't work on it last time because that was for pillowcases. So, 2 sew days of working on this, and now we need a third. 

We were able to get working on this one. It's the panel quilt that we need by July. So, I need to get the red on the top and bottom of the border. Then I can sew the sides and top together. We were working on getting the size right for the blocks. I don't think this will get a border when it's done, because it's pretty big as it is. 

Mary was working on these blocks. Mom cut part of the material that we needed to the wrong size, and this is the kit that I got ONLY the pieces to make the quilt. We may have to add another color or something but won't know till we get them put together. The stars need to be done first. Then I will worry about the strips that mom messed up on. 

I had some of the red and white quilt done, but not as much as I would have liked. That top quilt was a pain and took too much time. Today was a finishing day, but we only got one quilt finished and I will try and get the panel one done this weekend. 

After everyone left, I cleaned the kitchen. It was a mess! I unloaded the dishes and then added the dishes from lunch to it. It will be run again tomorrow, I'm betting. 

Then I relaxed till I came in here to get the blog done and found an email from Donna stating she is retiring from QOV. She was upset about not being able to present quilts to the veterans. She decided not to even call veterans to schedule them for our presentations. So, now I have to get all the paperwork she has and get someone else to do the work. I'm not looking forward to having to do it, because chances are no one will offer to help. I'm in trouble. We need to schedule for May now. Seems I'm good at pissing people off. We had told her in the beginning that we wanted a Veteran to do the presenting, and she didn't like it when we got my brother to do it. She was able to do it a year. Now, it's come back. UGH, UGH, UGH Bad enough this is a full time job for me. 

Anyway, at least I was able to be Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Hello Tuesday

 This morning, I tried to sleep in but wasn't so lucky. I pretty much played my games this morning. Patrick came in after golfing - at 10:30 am. I was going to go walking but it rained. So, instead, I headed downstairs and worked on my prepping for tomorrow. 

I cut more fabric for the kit quilt that needed more to it. Then I put together a pillowcase. I also trimmed the blocks that we are using for the panel quilt. I have it pretty much ready to get done. Hopefully, tomorrow we will have 2 quilts done, if not more. 

I spent most of the afternoon downstairs getting ready for tomorrow. I really don't think of taking pictures when I am down there working on stuff. 

I added more to this! I have that right bucket all full now. We may actually get a lot done tomorrow. I need Colleen to take her stuff tomorrow, so I'm not walking around it down there. 

Sophie came down and was playing with the rubber bands she kept finding. I kept taking them away. I don't know what it is about rubber, but she loves to chew on it. This time she was throwing them in the air and playing. I didn't want to take the chance she will eat it. 

My afternoon counts for Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Brazilian Embroidery Day

Today, Patrick was off golfing. I got up and out the door. 

First things first. Went to Safeway for meds and they said I had another one and to come back later. So, I headed to moms. I brought some of the cherry breads. I also had some to drop off at Phil's. 

Went to PUD because they gave us a FINAL shut off notice. I asked why I didn't get a curtesy letter. She said they sent one out and they called. Well, the number they called was disconnected. So, we chatted and I told her we just got the notice on Saturday and I couldn't do anything till today when it was the day to shut off. She fixed it for me. After 30 years of being with them, that was BS!

I worked on finishing this up. I have to add the beads, and then it's done. I like the way it came out and am surprised at how well I like it now. At first, I didn't because of the detached buttonhole stitch, but it went pretty fast. I shouldn't complain. I do like the colors too. Beads are next and then it's done, done, done. 

Went back to Safeway and they told me the other prescription wasn't ready till tomorrow. I got after her for telling me to come back and I could have gotten it this morning instead of coming back for the one they had for me. Ticked me off. 

Came home and called it a day. I ended up staying with mom a couple hours after everyone left. She needed this or that. Then I got after her for the quilts she gives away to family. She has her favorites and they get more than anyone else. I told her she needs to be fair with giving those out. Some don't take care of their stuff and she needs to realize that as well. All that time she puts into those quilts. Anyway, not my issue. 

At least, after the day I've had, I was actually Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

A Busy Day Of Baking

 This morning I pulled out the dough from last night that was in the refrigerator. It was frozen solid. I couldn't believe it! So, after I showered and had a few things going, like laundry, I got started on it again. This time I remembered the sour dough that was to go in it. 

I made about 18 of them. I think I should have waited on the frosting till it cooled down a bit, but that's okay. Its sweet bread with cherries. I was surprised it wasn't sweet like cinnamon rolls. Patrick said they were okay. But he loves sweets, so I can see why he wasn't really thrilled with them. I liked the bread. When I had mine, I forgot about the frosting, so added that after. I have them boxed and ready to go to Phil and moms tomorrow. 

I was cooking and cleaning all day. I tried to play some and got to for a bit here and there. I was going from one thing to another. Laundry got caught up a bit. The house got cleaned up and I was cooking or baking most of the afternoon. 

It wasn't my day for Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Getting Ready For Wednesday

 Today, I enjoyed sleeping a little longer. I really didn't want to get up. 

When I did, I got laundry going (then forgot about it). I headed downstairs to work on getting ready for the sew day on Wednesday. I need to send out an email to everyone for a reminder. 

I was looking for things we started and didn't get finished. So, I found the quilt we were working on in January that didn't get done. I also pulled out the kit that JoAnn gave me back. I have it ready to work on as well. I was cutting and pinning when I needed to. I pinned 2 borders on Georgie's quilt to get that done. Then I pinned the flying geese parts together. I also cut fabric for the January quilt, and it's pinned also. 

I put them in boxes ready to go. 

Then I thought about our 250th panel quilt. So, I put it on the wall to see if I like it or not. 

It seems to work, so we may be working on this as well. I may have to trim the blocks, but I think this will work. I will ask Patrick tomorrow to see what he thinks. 

I do need those who have kits to bring them back. We need to get more quilts out there to be quilted. We are running out of quilts right now. 

Once I was happy with what I was doing, I called it done and came back upstairs to play on my tablet. We watched TV together and then just before bedtime I made the dough for Cherry Rolls. It was supposed to have sourdough in it, but I forgot it!! Oh, crap. We'll see how it goes tomorrow. 

I tried to be Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

Watching Mariners Game

 This morning, I was up early. Even when I had my "blinders" on. Patrick slept a bit longer. 

I played on my tablet. I wanted to do something, but we had to leave around 11 am to get up to Olympia for my cardiologist appointment. We arrived on time and to my surprise was in on time. We talked about the medications I'm on and we are going to change things up. I have to talk to my doctor in 3 weeks, so will tell her what we talked about and see if Kaiser will do the shots or if I need to go through Providence for it. It's going to be interesting how this works. 

We then went to Costco and picked up some things we needed. It was crowded today. But we did get through quickly. The long wait was the food line. Patrick got his pizza and I got the dog. I was thinking of a salad, but that didn't look all that great. 

Stopped and dropped off food with Phil, then came home. I got started on making Date Bars (MIL's recipe) and then I made lasagna for "TV dinners." Patrick doesn't eat it, but I do. That will come in handy for the days Patrick isn't hunger and I'm trying to find things to eat. So, I made a small batch - about 6 servings. Tasted great when I was cutting them and getting them ready to freeze. 

Once all that was done, I was done. We have been sitting here watching the Mariner's game for the past hour. Before that it was the space mission coming back to earth. The news was bothersome because they talked over the information coming from the station. We waited the hour and a half for them to get out of the capsule and then went to the game. We are doing pretty good today. Fingers crossed we win this one! 

Which means I was nowhere near Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

 

QOV Presentation Day

This morning, I worked on cleaning up the house before heading to the museum. I had some laundry done, cat litter taken care of, and even some computer work done. 

Then I headed out to the museum and picked up some coffee for Debbie, tea for me, before getting there. 

I had a few things going on when I arrived. Sam wasn't there, because she's in Texas. Chip was busy with something that happened to the museum, so didn't get a chance to chat with him. Everything was set up for the presentation. Donna filled in for Patrick. I think that might be her last one, I want a veteran in that spot. We honored 8 veterans today. 

We had the honor of honoring the following - Duane Snelson US Army- Donald Ice US Army- Dennis Lawler US Navy- Steven Johnson US Air Force- David Gagne US Army- Jennifer Mannikko US Army- Seth Knox US Army, Zack Lange, US Army. 

 As usual, I came home and did nothing the rest of the night. Presentations take a lot out of me. I did get some paperwork done, but that was about it. I have a lot to do this weekend to get ready for the sewing day on Wednesday. 

So, nope, I didn't have the chance for Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Casino And A Finish

This morning, we headed out to the casino. We have Wednesdays this month for the casino - except for next week. We have sew days here. 

We played at the casino a good 4-5 hours. We didn't lose much at all.  We played on their money. I think the little we lost was from the money we won a few weeks ago. So, we are still ahead. Patrick got a bonus of $1,163 that was under the line of having to get an IRS form done. lol 

We then went to Safeway for things we need. We even had a couple ideas of what to have this week for super. Spent the most at Safeway in a very long time. Just needed to get a few things. I even got a couple things to replace what was outdated in the cupboards. 

Then I sat down and worked on the wreath. I needed to get that done. I don't want to have to think about doing it! 

This one is done! And I'm not doing another! I'm done, done. I have enough stuff to work on that another one would get in the way. This makes 2 from me and I'm betting only about 3 of us are working on them. Out of 23 members! Ugh. 

Now, I can sit and play my games and be glad I found time for Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Getting Ready For Thursday

This morning, Patrick went golfing and I slept in. When I got up, I started laundry and got on the computer to work on a few things. 

Once all that was done, Patrick walked in the house. Didn't get to listen to my book for very long. I then went downstairs to get the backing and batting done for the 250th panel quilt. It needs to get done. 

Came back upstairs and started writing the names on the labels of the quilts we have done. They will go to the museum Thursday. 

This was one that Colleen's sister made. It's prettier in person. This will go out in June. 

Barbara McLaughlin made this one. It was a kit from Connecting Threads. 

Can't remember who made this one. Might be mom but not for sure. 

This is the group quilt that we worked on in February. It was pieced together by Mary Brawner. I think she even did the stars to go with it. 

Once that was done, I had plenty to take to the museum. I did get all the photos done, but I did get a few. 

My Kia bag comes in handy. Think it's a good 5 years old. I may have to go and get more. lol 

After all that, we headed to Olympia for Patrick's kidney doctor appointment. All went well. 

Came home by way of DQ. We got supper there and then came home. I needed to get my butt in gear and work on the wreath so I could give it to Colleen and call it done. 

It will be done by tomorrow night. It goes fast. I did about that much in about 2 hours work. I worked on it just before we left for Olympia and then again while watching the game shows on TV. Plus, playing my games at the same time. 

All in all, it turned out to be a productive day and makes me Happy Quilting/Happy Stitching!

My Weekly Monday

 Today I was off to moms. I brought along some iced tea so I wouldn't have to stop. 

Arrived at moms first. Then Gerilyn, Bonnie and Georgie came. We ended up "BSing" more than doing anything else. I did get some work on my embroidery though. 

I was able to get the second one done with the first layer. I am going to have to wire the rest soon. We talked about sourdough bread, mom and her job as a protective payee, Sandy and her health. Just about everything. 

Then I headed home by stopping at Colleens and picking up 2 more quilts. I got another panel from her. Tomorrow, I need to put the names on the quilts and get them ready to go to the museum on Thursday. I'm hoping I can figure out what quilt was taken. 

My sister-in-law sent me my swimsuit, and she got me another swimsuit for our trip to Tahiti. I love the swimsuit! But I seriously need to lose a little weight!

Then I spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying a chat with Patrick. We didn't watch TV but we did read when we weren't chatting. 

My day had some Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Went To A Play Today

This morning, I was up early. Enjoying the day. Decided to just take it easy. This week is going to be busy I'm sure. 

We went to the theater to see the play, "9 to 5." It turned out really good. I found myself enjoying the 3rd character that played Jody. She was awesome! The first half took about 90 minutes while the second half was 30 minutes. It was the last show of the play run. I really did enjoy that play. 

Came home and got supper going. Then around 7 pm Patrick went to bed. He just wasn't his usual self. So, I stayed up and played my games. 

It didn't turn out to be a day for me to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Enjoying A Day Of Stitching!

This morning, I was up earlier than I have been in a while. It was nice but weird when 10 am came around and I thought it was later than that. 

I worked on laundry for a bit. Then I sat and played my game for a couple hours. Once that was over, I pulled out my cross stitch and got to work. 

I was able to work on the other arm before we headed to Red Lobster for supper. It was good, but expensive. Red Lobster doesn't have the foods I used to love to get, but a new menu. That's fine, I found something to eat after all. 

We came home and I got to work on the body and arm area. I added the green on the right side. I believe I was able to get a good 400 stitches in today if not more. 

I got my walking in as well. 

My day was fun, and I was Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

A Busy Friday!

Today, I was ready to do something. I tend to walk around trying to find something to do. Patrick went to get blood work, and I played on the tablet for a while. Then I got laundry going. Once that was going, I started cleaning up a bit. Got the cat litter, since I forgot yesterday. Then I decided to back some bread. 

I found a Sourdough bread book when I was cleaning out my cookbooks. I wanted to do a Sourdough French Bread, and it came out really good! I decided to do a "twist" to the French bread. It came out soft and good! Patrick let Scott know he could come pick up some bread. Teri came over instead. She sat and chatted with Patrick while I was on the phone with my cousin, Bryan. 

I wanted to do some cross stitching today. I didn't feel like working on the stump work. I am going to let that go for a bit. I want to spend time with my cross stitching. 

I was looking for the floss I needed and realized it was the one I went to Michaels for. I worked on the middle of the dress. I'm working my way down. I didn't get as much as I wanted to get done. 

Funny thing about having to get my floss. I was able to get it a couple weeks ago at Michaels. I got a message from Emily that she was looking for 890 - green. She said JoAnn's was closed, Walmart doesn't carry it anymore and Micheals didn't have the color she needed. So, I went downstairs and went through 3 boxes of floss. I was able to find it in a box that I have sent for a project. Can I remember what the project is?? NOPE. Am I going to put it away, probably not. Am I going to try and figure out what I was set up for? Probably not. I guess it's going to have to wait till I come across it again. Who knows when that will be. I already have my next project in mind and ready to go. But, nope, it's not the one where I have the floss box set for. Oh, well. 

After working on paperwork and stuff, I am now caught up with QOV and Gunderson. Maybe! I think I have to send out more bills. 

Today I noticed the Onalaska Heavenly Quilts Shop is now sponsoring Mossyrock QOV. We were spending a lot of money there and now they are taking donations and application for Mossyrock. I'm sorry, but that doesn't work for me. I will no longer support a shop that turns their back on us after we have ordered fabric from them. I guess I'm being a prick, but if you won't support us after all we spent with them, then I'm not going to use them again. 

The day was busy with this and that. I'm tired and want to listen to my book and call it a night. At least I found time for Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Virtual Class & Not Much After

This morning, I was up and working on my embroidery for the class. I was early today. Our class started at 10 am. It wasn't much of doing anything, but a class of what was to come. There wasn't anyone in the class that finished working on the flower petals. We all commented that we would have been closer to being done if we had another week to work on it. Then we went our Loretta's patterns to see what she could offer in the future. Once we finished, my brain was saying, "Seems easy enough." But my other brain was saying, "So, when are you going to get it done and remember what you learned today?" Good question. 

 I have the right petal done with the double, and the other 2 need to be doubled. I started on the next petal that goes over this one. I will do the first part and go back and finish the second part. What I did learn, was that the buds have to be added first. So, I need to work on those as well. In otherwards, I need to finish all these before even thinking of working on the full piece. 

I called it done and played on my war game. Then after supper I got a few more stitches in. I will keep this handy to work on. 

Now I want to show you the teddy bear I was excited to get but was let down big time! It's been a long time since I have done a round robin, but I don't think I will do it again. 

I do think this is cute for the tail. But really, couldn't more be done? 

The arms - are on the left, and the body of the bear is fading. I needed to do it in pencil so they could see it. Once did the heart and one did the ribbon. AND THAT WAS IT! One gal gave up the ghost so to speak. She didn't do anything. Then I think of all that work I did for them and I can't understand what's so hard to figure out? Put boots on the feet, make the face, put flowers in the ears, just something! Oh, well. It's not the first time I was "screwed" when it comes to handwork. I go out of my way because I believe in making something nice for the person I am doing it for. I won't give them crap. I just can't. 

Which reminds me of the quilt. I need to get the backing and batting together. Plus, I need to add the borders to another quilt. I should find time this weekend to get them done. I really do need to finish those up and out to the quilters. 

May day was fun, I enjoyed being with the virtual class. I do miss not seeing everyone in person though. At least I find myself Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!

Class Tomorrow - Not Ready

 This morning, I was up and working on my class piece. I also got a few things done for QOV. I got the certificate that needed to be mailed ready to go. 

We went to the Post Office first, then to Walmart! UGH Wally World! I was lucky and got to the pharmacy right away. Normally there is a long line. Met Patrick at the entrance since he went to get the windshield wipers for the car. It's pretty good that we lasted a good 7 years with the ones we have. Now watch, we will have to replace these before we know it!

We then went to the casino. We played for a good 4-5 hours. Then we went to Little Caeser's for lunch. It's right there in the casino. We also picked up some candy bars and turnovers before heading home. It was fun and we had a good time. Funny, at the end, I was ready to come home. We didn't spend much at all. Most of our playing was on their money. I do like it that way. 

Came home and my teddy bear was in the mail. I was so disappointed!!  One gal didn't do one thing. The others did 1 thing and called it done. I couldn't believe it. Now I have to work on it myself. I wish they would have done more. I did a LOT of work on theirs. I was really disappointing. I don't think I will do another round robin if that's all I got. 

I sat down and finished this part! That's the part that needed to be done. Then I got to work on the flower. 

The top petal is the one I doubled up on. It looks a lot better. I was able to get this far though. I did put the wire on the smaller petals, so that if I have time tomorrow, I can work on them. I still think doubling my work, works a lot better. Satin stitch then buttonhole stitch would work as well too. I like the color, so it's going to be fun to get done and put together. Do I have the time to do that? Probably not, but I will work on it. I need to finish it since I got this far!

All in all, I didn't have the time I should have taken to try and get it done, but I did work on it today. That's at least saying something for me. I wanted to play my games. lol - But I made sure to be Happy Stitching/Happy Quilting!