Eclectic Day

I Am Very Far Behind...

2009-05-25T19:53:00.000-07:00

Poor, poor, little blog....So neglected....I have been making things, but, yet I don't post any pictures.....I will have to stop and get back into the swing of things....I read so many wonderful blogs and see the beautiful pictures....Life has been interesting, again....So, I will have to start writing and picture taking....Soon little blog I will update you.....

Sunday Afternoon...

2009-04-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

The day has gone by way to fast for me....I am starting to make dishcloths again and want to make some matching towels to go with them. But, for now I am just working on the cloths because they are easy to do at work. I am also trying to finish up a baby blanket I started months ago. Seems that life just go in the way of that one and now there is time to get back to doing those kinds of things.

Saturday Late Afternoon...

2009-04-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

The day has been nothing but grocery shopping and getting paperwork around the house caught up. My big plans for the evening will be crocheting and reading this:

After looking and reading that one I will be reading this one:

That is my big plans for a Saturday evening.....

Start of the New Look...

2009-04-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

This is the start of the new look to the blog. I am working on the links right now. Hoping to make it a little more colorful after that. Blogger has become so much more user friendly. I am liking it very much so far. Time for bed and another day of work tomorrow. See ya...

April Is Here....

2009-04-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

I know I said I would start posting to this forgotten part of my life. I am trying to clean up a few things on the blog and come up with a banner for it.

I have been making some items. I just don't have any photos to share right now. I made Easter cards this year. I have become interested in some mix-media things this year. So, I have made my own water-color paper to use on the cards. I am very happy with how they have turned out. If I had more time I am sure I could have made them a little more interesting looking. I am looking forward to painting some more paper to use for other things. I really liked doing that.

Hopefully this week I will start posting pictures of items and writing more. It is hay fever time here and it has hit me big time. So, I guess what I am saying is that there may be a little delay in the photo stuff.....

I Am Coming Back Next Soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-02-11T19:02:00.000-08:00

Well, well, I have been gone for a very long long time.......I guess you could say life took a big turn on me way back when and I haven't had the time to do the things I would enjoy. One of which was reading blogs!

I will now give the short version of life. Hubby's illness got worse, not better. I ended up full time at Target working in the Human Resource area. Finally got the hang of that. Target decided to go through with our stores remodel. Which means taking down the building and putting a new one in its place. My boss decided to leave in the middle of it. Ended up doing way more than I ever thought I would (like finding 120 people new homes for the next 6 months at other Target stores). You know there is a lot of packing and paperwork to do when you close a store. All in all it has been an interesting experience that I hope not to do again any time soon. Also have learned how to feed over a 100 people 3 times a day on a budget. Love the people I work with and will miss many of them over the next few months.

Anyway, how this all works is Target bought the little building next door to us and we will expand into that area now. This is an area that really could use a larger and newer store. We closed the doors at 5PM on Saturday. They were taking the sign down by 5:02 PM. We were packing up what was left in the store on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday morning. Tuesday people were coming in taking away office stuff. Even took the chair I was sitting in while working! By the time I left on Tuesday the building next to us was down and half gone. I think they can build a store in 6 months.

I am going to try and get some pictures this week of items that interest me right now. I will have a better schedule and lot more driving starting Monday. So, I hope to be able to post a couple times a week to start with.

I doubt there is anyone still checking in on this poor neglected little blog; but, if you are, I have missed all of you!

A No Picture Post....

2008-06-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

Today is Father's Day. I will be cooking some crab here shortly for the man of the day. Still need to figure out one more side dish to make with it.

I have been training for the past couple of weeks. I realize that they should have kept me at the store for one of those weeks since the gal I am replacing is already leaving. She told me she just doesn't understand why they give the executives 2 months of training and us only a couple of weeks. And yet, we are to know the exact same stuff. Go figure....Guess what I am saying is, this is why the poor blog as been neglected. My little brain has been on over-drive these past few weeks. There is still so much I have to learn.....I think in another month I will have to whole thing down. Just so many rules, laws, and just plain stuff about folks that I have to remember.

I am almost done with one baby blanket and need to start another. I will have to try to make the next one a little larger I think. Maybe when I am done with the boarder I will be able to judge better on the size.

My goal for this week is to get some pictures taken and get this blog up again. Until then see ya...

New Post For Tuesay....

2008-05-27T18:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes, I have been very bad again about posting. But, as the title of this blog says it has been some Eclectic Day's.....As faith would have it I have a nice new position at Target. Pretty much regular hours, a little more pay (would have liked it to be a tiny bit more) and a whole lot of stuff to learn. I am in training for the new position and it is taking up my time. But, I have been working on a baby blanket lately and will post pictures of it soon. I actually have 3 days off coming up so I should be able to get this poor little blog all caught up again.

Oh, I will be working in the HR department for our store and for now will actually have a little office. Which means I will have to make something for the space. And being in HR means I get to help plan events and promote the whatever it kind of month at Target. This month has been Asian-Pacific Islander month. Above you can see the origami paper that was put out for store members with instructions to make something.

All for now. Have been having to drive much further for work this week so think I will go visit with the family. I miss them during the day.......

Monday Is Here....

2008-04-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

Today is my day off, so have been cleaning up a few things around the house. Got the boy working hard on his schoolwork since there was a little lag in it for awhile (figuring out new scheduling with dad home). Have also learned that things do run differently with Mr. V home now days. Very interesting so far. See work habits are hard to give up right away. This morning he made new spread sheet for the daily and weekly things that need to be done around the house. Then he assigned everyone to there tasks he came up with (including himself). I seem to be left off for now, so I am the odd cleaning job person now. This is not the only thing that has been spread sheet/computer keep track of.

Anyway, since he was using the computer all morning (tweaking his spread sheet), I wasn't able to get some new photos of things to post. He wanted to go Sam's Club after lunch, so that is where I spent some of the afternoon. On the upside, I got 3 new magazines while there. I will post some pictures from them.....

The first one is Martha's magazine.

I wanted to get this one after seeing and reading about the above chicken on Linsey's blog. I really want to try this sometime.

Also, I find this outdoor cover very interesting. May have to make a trip to K-Mart to take it look at it. It is part of the Martha Stewart Collection there.

The next is Victoria.

I like the articles and most of the pictures. I am just not sure if the pictures are as charming as I remember from years ago when the original was still in print. I will keep buying it and see how it goes over the coming months. I use to love the original, so maybe it will just take time to warm up to the new one.

Finally there is this one, Quilt. Thought the cover quilt was very pretty. I just have never been that good with bright colors. But, I do like them when I see them. (Wow, that was a pretty bad job of scanning now that I see that picture up there, too lazy to fix it today...)The cover quilt reminds of some of the quilts that are seen on Patchy Work of Mini Grey....

I like these two versions of the same quilt pattern. Very cute room. The quilt is by Toby Lischko.

Last, we have this really nice quilt that is picture in the above ad. Follow this link to learn more about Valori Wells.

There, that is all for today. I now have some fun reading for the rest of the week. Wait....Mr. V just said that the new cabinets will be here on Friday. That should be interesting. This means we will have to store them, somewhere around the house while we take apart the old kitchen.....Until next time, hope you have or had a wonderful day.......

First Day Of Blogging Again...

2008-04-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I start blogging again. Wanted to download some pictures from my camera, but, Mr. V has seem to have moved the cable for my camera. And it is not where he said it should be. Guess I will post pictures from the camera tomorrow. The above picture is a scan of a doll blanket I made out of some fine baby yarn. It is just a big granny square and works really well as a doll blanket. Doesn't scan well, but, looks good wrapped around a doll....

Well now, where to start on why I haven't been blogging for awhile.....Guess life just got a little more interesting than I cared for and time got away from me. Throw in some feeling sorry for myself and that is how one misses a couple months of blogging. Think the fastest and easiest way to sum everything up is in a list. So here goes:

1. Had a mammogram come back that had a spot that they didn't like. Yes, here is where I started felling sorry for myself.

2. Saw a surgeon and he seems to think all is fine, but, we will do pictures again in July.

3. Mr. V's company decided to down size and he was the chosen manger to go. We really weren't surprised by this and won't put the reasons why we figured he was going to be the one.

4. Upside he ended up with a few weeks home while still on payroll.

5. Mr. V got a package deal for all the years he worked. So, he is still getting paid until October.

6. Been big adjustment to having him home now for a month and half. Had to give up my control of most household areas because he feels he is home and I am still working part-time. Wow, really hard giving up ones control of stuff one has done for so many years....

7. Have been helping Mr. V learn how to do schoolwork with the boy. Interesting so far....

8. Have been putting in as many hours as I can at work with hopes of getting a better paying position. Keeping fingers crossed that something will happen this month or next. Know times are hard in the world of retail so hope this works out.

9. Mr. V still having problems with neck and back. But, have made some good progress. That is why I would love to get something with more pay/hours so he could take sometime off from working full time. Tomorrow he is getting some injections into his back to help with pain. Will be interesting to see how all of that works out.

10. Rebecca has been offered a job with the help of a start up manga book. She has been working on the characters and all is going well. They are still lining up the right publisher but there seems to be a lot of interest in it so far. All the copyright stuff is almost done now too. We really need to get her a phone of her own now. Maybe this week we will get her a pay as you use phone like we switched to a couple of months ago. She is very excited about this and I hope it works out well for her (as of this week she is head artist, really excited gal). Since we really didn't know the guy doing this manga I go along and sit in Star Bucks while they talk business (that too is where a lot of my time has gone in the past few weeks). As soon as it is alright to do I will post some of the drawing from it. She seems to be loving this deadline stuff so far too....

There I think that pretty much sums up the last couple of months. We have had to do some replanning with our plans in life and I think everything will work out just fine. We are going to have to do somethings sooner than we had thought, but, that is fine.

Since we are going to pay off the house in the coming months, and Mr. V is home, we are going to start fixing up the house some. Many projects have been put off over the years because Mr. V was always working or something.

The first project to get done is going to be putting up new kitchen cabinets. They have been ordered from the folks at Shenandoah Cabinetry. Above is a picture of the cabinets from the catalog. We are getting the natural oak and there will pulls on the doors & drawers, no knobs like in the picture. The top cabinets will be cathedral style and the bottom cabinets will square. I will lose my sewing area now in kitchen, but, will have more cabinet space!

I know I must have one of the few husbands that actually want to have a say in any kind of remolding work. He is the one that really wanted the natural looking cabinets, fine with me. And he has always like the shade of green above and that is what we will be painting the kitchen this time. It is called frosty pine by Olympic Paints. We left the paint card up on the wall for a couple of weeks and we still liked it so that is what it will be....(The green isn't as bright as it scans, think it will show up better when the walls are painted...)

Think that pretty much brings everyone up to date. I hope to post pictures tomorrow because I got something very nice in the mail yesterday that needs to be seen. Until then take care everyone.....

WOW, The Sun Is Out Wednesday....

2008-02-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

Since, I have not been creating much of anything these past couple of weeks I thought I would share the above. It is a towel made by my sister-in-law Sherri. It is machine emboreried. I really like the little purple love bug. I thought he came out very cute. Thank you Sherri.

I really want to sit down and start sewing again. I still have not cleaned up my little area. But, of course I have a couple of people dealing with that awful cold/flu thing that is going around. Poor Mr. V and Rebecca. They just feel awful right now. But, I have been working on my granny squares again. I decided to start over, because they were looking alittle goofy in the shape. So, I say, hey, bet I should be using a bigger hook. Yep, they look much better now. Glad I hadn't gotten too far yet.

Short post for today. The sun is and it is a beautiful day. Ricky helped me get the front all raked up. So many dead leaves, grass, and branches in that lawn. Maybe tomorrow we can do the back. The tulips that I planted are starting to come up and those way early blooming daffodils are just starting to bloom. During one of the storms we lost our split rail fence in the front and now I have to find out who still sells that kind of fencing in this area. Otherwise will have to come up with some kind of new fence. Until tomorrow, see ya.... (I wonder why my spell check has now stopped working on Blogger. Will have to figure that one out some time.)

Thursday Morning, Another Dark Rainy Day....

2008-01-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday just got away from me. We did stop at a Borders book store on the way home (this Borders drives my Rebecca nuts, because the Manga books are not in the correct order; she always just wants to clean it up for them). I found this Valentine's Day book in the kid section. The cards are easily punched out.

I just really enjoyed all the different little cards.

Nothing exciting going on around here. I am still working on a top cover thing for the microwave, knitting baby bibs, and have to get back to the granny squares. Just have a few appointments to go to today so will have to wait until later to work on things If the sun comes out tomorrow I will take some pictures of things I am working on....

Another Rainy Tuesday...

2008-01-29T14:14:00.001-08:00

Well, well, it has been a week since my last post. These kids of mine seem to be sucking up all my time. Then there was the problem of getting Rebecca's computer upgraded and that just didn't work out as well as I would have liked. Lots of running between two stores. Store A did not do a good job at all and computer wasn't working when we got it back. Found that store B (which is owned by the same company) was a better service store and I wanted them to fix the computer. Wanted store A to refund my money so I could pay store B for the work they were going to do to fix store A's mistake. Store A wasn't happy that I didn't let them try again. Ended up getting half the money back from Store A. Called the main folks for store A and B; they are now sending me the rest of the money back. Still have one small problem with a file that didn't transfer that I thought I took care of today, but, found out they got the wrong file off the old disk drive. Will have to try again. On the upside, Renee was told to go home and fill out a job application for store B. She may end up with a full time job if no one in the store wants full time. And there is also a part time job slot open too. I really hope they hire her....

I have been knitting baby bibs and working on crocheting at night. None of those things are that exciting to look at right now so I thought I would post about one of my new books. The pictures are very pretty in the Vintage Crochet book by Susan Cropper. You can also read a review of this book at The Hook and I and at Bella Dia.

The colors and the combination of fashion, home and garden choices makes this such a useful book to have around....

I liked this shelf cover. A possible use for all those little buttons....

There just was no way to scan this in any better. But, I really liked the breakfast set. There are some really nice egg covers that go with this set. I just wasn't able to fit them into my scanner.

And there is even a little bunny friend for you to make for someone....

I will say it again. Even if I don't get around to making anything sometime soon, I still enjoy looking at the pictures in this lovely book.

Hopefully I will get something interesting done to post soon. Tomorrow is Rebecca orthodontist day. I really want this to be a fast trip tomorrow. Until tomorrow I hope you have a great day or evening....

Rain All Day Tuesday...

2008-01-22T14:29:00.000-08:00

Instead of cleaning I thought I would try this cake mold I got at the Dollar Spot at Target. It is one of those fixable molds. I was very happy with how it worked and it was cheap too. Makes it nice to have a few odd shaped molds for cakes and at $2.50 each I look forward to buying others when they come out.

My little, big, boy came home last night. He had a wonderful time at the snow. Said all the other things they got to do were great too. The adult in charge of them was very nice and really seem to enjoy spending time with the boys. I admire anyone that is willing to be in charge of 6 junior high boys for almost 4 days. They came home late because the it started to really snow up in the mountains and the charter buses had to put chains on before getting on the freeway. I can't imagine putting tire chains on all those tires!

Looks like that is all the news from around here. I was very sad to hear that Heath Ledger has passed away today. He was an actor that I enjoyed very much. One of my favorites movies is A Knights Tale and he is just wonderful in it.

(For some reason Blogger is not letting me space between my paragraphs!)

Time For Thursdays Favorite Book...

2008-01-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned yesterday, I am going to tell you about one of my all time new favorite books. It is MaryJane's Ideabook, Cookbook, Lifebook. It is wrote by MaryJane Butters (and that is her on the cover), who I had always found to be one of the most interesting people out there. Just go to her web-site to learn more about her and her business/farming side.

But, first lets just chat about this most wonderful book. It is as the title says and covers everything. There are many things to make and wonderful instructions. One of the items I like best in this book is all the great life stories. Both of her current life, her adventures earlier in her life, and the stories of family in her childhood. The book is just wonderful to read and look at the pictures.

There are both new and old photos. Family photos of past and current family events.

I gave a copy of this book to a friend for Christmas and she just loves it. I have not met anyone that doesn't get something out of this wonderful wonderful book.

If you would like to see a short story about MaryJane follow this link to America's Heartland and watch the short video.

My boy is almost all packed for camp. Seems like I am not needed much this time for packing. He has taken it all upon himself this time. I just keep asking him if he has packed this or that and the answer always is yes. I am proud of him....

I see by the clock it is time to start cooking again. Tomorrow will be busy, so I don't think I will get to do any posting. I take Mr. V to his doctor appointment, get the boy off to camp, and then it is off to work. So, I will not be home until after 11PM. I am looking forward to crocheting again tonight and watching TV with everyone.

Windy, Sunny, Wednesday....

2008-01-16T15:51:00.000-08:00

While doing my waiting at the orthodontist today for the boy; I started reading the book Craft Inc. by Meg Mateo Ilasco. First, may I say, this is a nice size book. Very easy to take with you any where. And the look of it is great, so pleasing to look at. I made it up to page 24 while the boy was getting all wired up. And so far it is very helpful, even if you aren't looking into selling your craft. Just good old creative information. The main reason I got this is that I would like to see Rebecca turn some of her pictures into prints, note cards, etc. There are many interview type parts with folks that have turned their craft into a business. I really like this book so far and look forward to finishing it.

I have wonderful book that I got for my birthday that I will share tomorrow. I have enjoyed it very much so far.

Tomorrow will be pack the boy for camp day. Today we stopped and got the missing parts for camp. We got a head lamp (flashlight you wear on your head). Last year the snow cat broke down and they had to walk up the mountain path in the dark. Told him we will put this in his coat pocket just in case the same thing happens.

Guess it is time to get back to making dinner. Rebecca just brought in the mail and there was a card from Kandy's regular vet. A very nice sorry for you about the death of your pet card. All the veterinarian that every had anything to do with her has sent us a card, that was awful nice of them. Then really nice thing is that the staff signs them too....

Fog Finally Lifted Tuesday....

2008-01-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

Is that time of year again when most mornings are very foggy. I was surprised it lifted before lunch time today.

No big news from around these parts. I started back on the above granny squares and am hoping to have a blanket before summer. This is my first attempt at the granny square thing so think it is taking me a little longer than most. Once I make the first 10 or 15 I hope I will get faster. I have been reading the Granny Along blog and may I say they are all way faster at this than I.

Ricky and I only had one science experiment today. Nothing mind blowing, just figuring out the volume of a rock. I am just happy that we seem to be getting school work done again. We had gotten so off track these past couple of months. Tomorrow it is his orthodontist day. Which one stop on the way home at the video game store.

Tonight I am off to work again and then two days off. Which will work out just right because I have to get Ricky ready for Winter Camp on Friday. He will be gone for 4 days. I will miss, but, I do hope he has a really good time too. So until tomorrow, so long.......................

Monday, Monday......

2008-01-14T14:58:00.001-08:00

Mr. V is working from his office again, so I have complete control of the computer! Was nice having him around, but, I do find that I do not get my time on the computer to do things like this when he is working from home. I think one day we will have to figure out how to add onto this little house and make an office. Cause it is nice having him home for lunch and just to visit with in between things.

The kids and I started back on school work today. Will take it slow. Also have to wait to use this computer since I have Rebecca doing a typing program. Find it good practice for her to use a regular keyboard verses the one on her laptop. Of course I could invest in a keyboard for her to use with the laptop. Will have to think about that one.

I have started making dishcloths for myself this time around. Did all those for Christmas and never made any for me. Well, with the exception of a few that didn't turn out as nice as I had wanted. Kept the rejects for us to use. I bought a cone of cotton yarn (pictured above) and will make all of ours out it.

I bought a sewing book for Rebecca to use. It is called S.E.W. (Sew Everything Workshop) by Diana Rupp. Came with projects and patterns. Had lots of photos like she likes so she can see exactly what it is suppose to look like. She will start on it this week. I think it will work better than me just having her do stuff. Rebecca seems to like to have a plan and photos to work from.

Well, this will be it for today. I so many good books to look through since Christmas and my birthday have both passed. I think I am getting easy to buy for. Get me some pretty books on how to make something and I am a happy camper.....

Rainy, Dark, Tuesday...

2008-01-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well, I missed yesterdays post. But it was for a good reason. I went back to Target before I went into work to buy Rebecca this sewing machine. It is a Euro-Pro by Shark. It was a deal to good to pass up. The machine was clearance, then I had a 10% off reward card from my credit card, another 10% for employee discount, and another 10% off because the box had been so badly damaged. Needless to say Rebecca was thrilled, because she had no idea I was going to get her a machine. I know she had really been wanting to sew a lot more, but, figured that her biggest problem was she was afraid she would do something to mess up my machine. I was right, and now she is ready to go. Today we used her rolled hem foot because she was making a bow for a costume. It worked really well. (It is like night time out already because of all the rain, so that is why all the pictures are so dark......)

The reason I went with this machine, besides the wonderful price, was I remember reading about it on My Paper Crane last October. Rebecca really liked that she can make little dolphins with the embroidery part. And she can even make very nice button holes. She is looking forward to trying to make clothes for her Pullip dolls.

Now I also have no reason to go for my goal this year and that is to sew like I use to. I use to sew almost everyday. Made almost all the clothes for the kids. I miss those days....But, the first thing I need to do is clean up my little table in the kitchen so I can get to my machine! Oh, one last thing, while trying to do the rolled hem today we ran into a problem. Found The Sewing Divas blog and it was really helpful. Also fun to read and lots of pictures.....

Saturday, The Day After The Big Storm...

2008-01-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

No post for yesterday because the power kept flickering. Figured there was no reason to even try to use it. Was an interesting day all in all. Thought there was enough water in the pool for it to hold up against high winds. Guess, I was wrong since it is now folded in half in the middle of the backyard. Told Ricky if it just needs new metal poles then I can order those. It the liner is gone then we might just get a new one in the spring. Poor Mr. V has been on conference calls and his work computer until 10 PM last night and was back on it this morning at 7 AM. He is trying to get all his cell sites back on the air. Has guys running around with generators and doing whatever he can to get all them back on the air. Poor guy, think he is getting frustrated. While home his office is our bedroom, so I left my nice warm bed before I really wanted to today. Oh, and for added fun last night around 2 AM our neighbors patio caught on fire. Not sure yet what happen there, but, most of it was out before the fire department got here (which may I say, they got here very fast). I will have to have a chat with Mrs. Neighbor to see what happen. We had already woken up because of the sounds it was making, Mrs. Neighbor came over ringing our doorbell to make sure we up and then she ran back home.

On a lighter note, Renee got to go see Walking With Dinosaurs. Said it is the greatest thing ever to go and watch. Wish I had planned better so I could have taken the Rebecca and Ricky to see this. I am sure it will be back this way again next year.

I will close with a review of the book from my last post. I really enjoyed it. The critters were all fairly simple and the instructions seem to really clear. Now all I need to do is sit down and try one of them out. Oh, and there is even tips in each project to help you out even more.

I suppose I should hit the shower, and then off to the grocery store before the rain comes again. No major winds this time, just colder and more rain (snow if you live in the mountains)......

Happy Thursday To All.....

2008-01-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

We are starting our major storm run right now. The rain started at noon today and should go until Sunday or so. I had been wanting to take pictures, but, it is like night time most of the time around here with the weather right now.

This evening will be spent looking at this book that was delivered today. I look forward to looking through it very much.

As far as making things, I am trying to use up all those little balls of cotton yarn left from all those dishcloths. Mr. V likes just having some small knitted squares to use as coasters and small hot pads. So I will have many different color squares to use in the kitchen as needed for whatever pops up.

This is the start of the blog again. It will be short, but, there will be some kind of post each day. I think life is going to start getting back to normal around here in the coming weeks. I look forward to it very much. I miss my blog, my making things, and just being home. I look forward to all those normal, unexciting days to come.......

Day After Christmas....

2007-12-26T13:56:00.000-08:00

Belated Merry Christmas to all!!!!!!!!!!

I do believe that I am back on track again. Today will be the last of the holiday hours at the store (thank goodness). And I am not going to be the store operator tonight even! Yes, yes, that was an interesting experience in its self, a store operator during Christmas shopping.

I did have to work on Christmas Eve. But, I did have a plan. I bought Rebecca and Ricky each a ginger bread kit. I did not have to be in to work until 10 AM, so was able to get them started. And when I returned home around 7 PM I happily surprised by the two very nice creations.

First up we have the house by Rebecca....

Here is view number 2......

And last a roof picture.....

Next we have a train by Ricky....

And yet another view of the train.....

Everyone is doing better about the passing of Kandy the dog. I just now down loaded the last pictures of her when we thought she was doing fine. And you know she looked really good all the way until the end.

I will close for now. You see I have many new crafty books and magazines to look at. I some ready to get back to making things!!!!!!! I look forward to the coming weeks of figuring out what to do next. This will be followed by getting all caught up on my blog reading.......

Sad News...

2007-12-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

On Saturday our little Kandy passed away here at home. She was her happy little self up until the end. She would have turned 18 years old in two more weeks. I will say this was one of the best dogs ever, and I'm not saying this because she was our dog. Kandy was just a naturally good nature dog, loved all, was well behaved, and was pretty darn cute too. Yes, there was a lot of crying going on around here on Saturday. Kids all seem to be on the rebound now. Today we are going to get around to putting up the Christmas tree and stuff. But, I am glad that we just stopped doing running around stuff for Christmas last week and just took care of Kandy. Mr. V and I were very surprised that this happen because she was acting like her old self all day, just a little tired. We will all miss her very very much.....

When Did Life Get So Busy??????????

2007-12-12T16:22:00.000-08:00

Seems like I have no planning in life any more. Today was spent with the vet. Our little Kandy, who will be 18 years old in a few months, has been having problems. She spent the day with the vet and it looks like she just has some fluid in her lungs. Have pills for her to try so she can get rid of the fluid. She still isn't getting enough oxygen in, but, hopefully that will change tomorrow. Other than this breathing problem she is in excellent health for a dog this old. She is napping right now, because I don't think she slept at all while at the vets. Decided to let them send her x-rays off to the radiologist to make sure there isn't anything else going on in there. She seems to be hungry but just to tired right now to eat. I think after a nap she will be up to that. Yes, there was some crying going on in this house with the thought of this being the last we would see of her. So much for just having a nice peaceful month......(And I still have Christmas shopping and mailing to do!)

A No Picture Post...

2007-12-05T16:20:00.000-08:00

Hello, to anyone that is still reading this. Next week I plan on getting the poor thing up and running again. This working the holiday season at Target is consuming way more time than I had ever thought. I was finally able to get the tulip bulbs put in the ground today. A little late, but, at least they are in the ground. I then had to get those pesky report card wrote up and e-mailed off (a day late). Tomorrow and Friday I have off. I am so looking forward to that. This staying at the store until mid-night is starting to catch up with me. Guess I am just not a late night person any more. I have been neglecting everything it seems. I will have to spend a lot of time with the kids after this is all done. I still haven't figured out how I am going to get Christmas done. Hopefully tomorrow some of it will get done. Mr. V is taking the next two days off so we can see each other again. At least this week I have been able to make dinner for everyone before I leave. That has been nice. Well, this will have to be it for now. I have been reading blogs, just haven't been writing this one. And may I say all of you have been posting some nice pictures.

Nothing Important To Say Tuesday...

2007-11-27T10:14:00.000-08:00

Howdy everyone. I really had nothing interesting to write about today so thought I would post a few kitty pictures. Only problem is the book is much larger than my scanner. First we have the little youngster going off to school.

And how about a cute little teenage couple.

Then there are those naughty boys smoking in the bathroom.

Hope you have a nice peaceful day.

Overcast Monday...

2007-11-26T10:23:00.001-08:00

Well, time has gotten away from me once again. This being gone from the house so often I think is starting to take its toll on all of us. I had an unpleasant day on Friday and even before Mr. V had known how bad of day I was having he had bought me some flowers. When I got home there they were sitting on the kitchen table. I will admit right now, in my book, he is the best husband ever!

I am working until 11:30 PM each night and am on my 6 days in a row at work. I see Christmas is going to be an interesting time.

I have been pretty good about not shopping everyday at work. There are many folks I work with that do that. They shop everyday and end up buying something.

My goal this week is to spend as much time as I can with Ricky and Rebecca. I feel as if I have not been as much fun for them lately. Tomorrow I am hoping to get Rebecca's lap-top over to the computer folks to see if we can get her drive updated. After I get done with writing this I am off to the shower. And then we are going to watch Extreme House Make-Over. Rebecca recorded it last night so we could watch it together. I hope to have some post of interesting things to make or something interesting I have made to post tomorrow.

Already Wednesday!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-14T10:25:00.001-08:00

Last night was a quiet night at work. We think everyone is waiting for next week when the big sales start. We were able to get everything done, which was nice for a change. I even got to help Santa pick up a blouse for his fill in Mrs. Santa because his real Mrs. Santa is unable to go with him on few trips. He said they wear Victorian style outfits and hers is really pretty. And as luck would have it, we had a blouse with a stand up collar and very small ruffle for her to wear under the outfit. The blouse was 100% cotton so she shouldn't get hot.

A couple of weeks ago I did get my copy of Victoria magazine.

I was really happy to see all the pictures of Tasha Tudors collection of antique clothing. Of course I am a big Tasha Tudor fan.

I just really liked this fireplace. I think I like all the candles better than a fire. Very pretty.....

I had one picture to post, but, Blogger keeps failing when trying to upload it. The picture was of one of the ads. Because the ads sometimes are just as pretty as the pictures. All in all I was pretty happy with the re-birth of this magazine. It will be interesting to see how it sells.

Short post for today, but, I am going to make my goal this week of posting 5 in row.

Happy BIrthday Ricky!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

Today is the little boys birthday. So he isn't very little any more, but, he will always be way younger than I and that makes him my little guy.

Ricky really liked the gift bag. It plays the song Happy Birthday and the candles flash on & off to the music. We had baby back ribs for dinner, as his request. And birthday cake of course. I even had found Lactose Free ice cream for my two guys. They liked it very much.

I have finally started weaving in the tails of the dishcloths I had been working on during the year.

I have five down and think I only have about 35 more to go!

Now back to birthday stuff. Just a note to all, if you are buying a cake the day after the weekend your choices are limited. That is why Ricky ended up with a fall cake.

He didn't care it was still a chocolate cake.

I suppose it is now time to get something done around this house. I have work tonight. Once again Happy Birthday Ricky.....Who is now 14 years old....

The Start Of A New Week...

2007-11-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

I did finish up the baby blanket last week and just have one bib to finish. Then it is off in the mail to the little girl it is for. Bought her a book too, just have to remember where I put it.

Ended up getting a new computer monitor. It is a Samsung 21.6 inch one. That's right, the pictures gigantic. The monitor is also a wide-screen one and that is taking some getting use to. I am also going to have to read up on how to adjust the colors, the are a little off. Everything looks so different on this monitor. But, it sure is nice for watching DVD's (the computer is in the kitchen and this is where most of my DVD watching goes on). Also, being such a large screen you can watch current TV shows that the networks have on-line and get a nice size picture to watch. Now I can get all caught up on Pushing Daisies. It is such an interesting show.

I did pick up some new magazines last week. Here are a few of them. I am looking forward to being able to read through them soon...

Guess that is all for now. Mr. V isn't working from home this week so I should be able to post everyday. When he is here he sometimes takes over this computer while also using his work laptop. Tonight we are doing Ricky's birthday a day early. I am working tomorrow evening, so, figured why not do it now. Ricky is all for that. I ended up having to run around to get the items for dinner tonight, but, it was nice being able to get something he wanted.

The Start Of Finish Up Week...

2007-11-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

That is my goal for the week is to try and get some started projects done. The first was completed this morning. The scarf for Rebecca is done. She really likes the colors, which don't photograph well. Will have to try taking it outside for picture sometime. Now the only problem is that she needs something to wear to match it. Told her I would check on my break at work.

We both like the bumpy yarn used to make it.

As you can see Kandy is just thrilled modeling this for me. I am now off to finish up a baby blanket that I should have had done a month ago. Hopefully there will be another post later today of that.

I Am Back!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

My little health issue had come back. I seem to have it under control better right now and get to see the doctor on Thursday. And may I say we really need to talk. Work got really busy, had a 7 day work week once. Then there was the health thing thrown in there, so the poor old blog was left alone. This week that all changes. I will have a schedule once again in my life. The first thing I have done is started looking into making a granny squares. Above is the color combo I have come up with for the living room. I figure I can work on something this at work because I can just do one color of different blocks. That way I only have to take one ball of yarn and few blocks. Will let you know how this works out.

I ended up working Halloween night. It was fine. Didn't have to worry about buying candy afterwards, because we sold out of all the Halloween candy by 6 PM. The only Halloween sale thing I bought yesterday at work was a nice pumpkin cookie cutter. Ended up costing me 75 cents. Is one of those with nice cushion top so you don't push on the metal.

I am sure I will have some interesting posts coming up. Christmas is coming and I am sure shoppers will surprise me in the way they shop. Running the fitting room, has shown to be very interesting so far. So, I am back for sure this time. See you tomorrow.....

It's That Time Of Year....

2007-10-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

I said I would not buy much candy this Halloween. I guess saying what one is going to do is different from what one actually does. We now have a bowl filled with little candy bars. My big concern is that now that I am working at Target they clearance all their candy after Halloween. I will be strong and try not to buy any!

Nothing to exciting going on around here. The news is just pretty much all about the fires down south. I can hear some aircraft coming and going from Mather Field. I drive by the OES office everyday. There are so many TV vans and cars there right now.

I suppose I should get a few more things cleaned up around here. Have just gotten so behind around here. I am hoping to have all that everyday stuff caught by next week and I can back into making/working on things everyday. But, I am keeping up with my posting everyday so far. It may not be earth moving writing, but, it is making me get back into keeping up with the blogging.

A Book Came Yesterday...

2007-10-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my copy of The Gentle Art of Domesticity came via Amazon/UK. I was very happy this morning to be able to look through it. I have always enjoyed reading Jane Brocket's blog. And I now look forward to reading the book. It will have to wait until another day to read since I said I would go into work early today. My Rebecca was disappointed that this box didn't have her CD in it. I told her that one is not suppose to get here until sometime in November. She walked away very sad...Since I have a short time at home today this post will be short. But, the pictures alone are worth the book.

If I Only Had More Time & Skill....

2007-10-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

I got the new issue of Vogue Knitting International this weekend. And if only I had more talent in knitting and a lot of time. There are so many things I would make. Including the coat on the cover.

Then there is this jacket. Yes, I would even wear this jacket. Can you imagine how long it will take to knit....
The next part is called Brit Knits. There were many things I liked in that part too. Including this interesting wrap jacket.

And then there is this vest....

Followed by this cute sweater.

One day I would like to try knitting some lace like this wrap. I just don't think I have the concentration to do something like that right now.

On a personal note I go back to work today. I am filling in for a person that is on vacation this week. This means it will be Monday thru Friday 4 PM to 10 PM. Will be interesting to be gone every evening. Down side will be not much time with Mr. V, how sad.....I am a little disappointed in that my annoying health problem seems to be trying to come back. I am not happy about this and will try not to get in a mood because of that. I am going to give the just think happy thoughts all day a try.......This is the first of my attempt of doing 5 in row again posts. Have a lot of magazines that are new and a few things all made. So if I don't get to taking pictures I will fall back on the magazines.

I AM STILL HERE!

2007-10-16T14:49:00.000-07:00

I have not forgotten about blogging. I have had a bit of a problem over the last few weeks. The doctor sent me home for a week. Which is odd to handle because I have only been at work for 6 weeks. I also feel bad that I scared Mr. V last week. I am feeling much better now. Still somewhat goofy feeling in the head. So, I figure I will wait a few more days before I write more in this blog (if there is anyone left reading the poor thing). I have had a health issue that had been going on for 20 days and then all went a muck last Tuesday night. I think tomorrow or Thursday I should be back to doing this again. And I really really want to be much more interesting and have more pictures of fun stuff. I also need to get all caught up on what everyone has been up to........

Today Is Friday....

2007-10-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

Well, this is another one of those weeks where the time has gotten away from me. I am really going to have to figure this out better. Of course there has been a few events that have happen that have taken up time I had plans for. I will share that next week, because I want to get out of this once a week post slump I am in.

At least I do have some pictures to post today. Nothing all that interesting, but, I have pictures! The one above is for the next bib (that I thought I would have done by now). Then I will just have to finish up the boarder on the blanket and off the box can go.

The other day I thought I would try taking some pictures of our angry humming bird. He stayed for a good while, so that was actually nice of him.

The reason I call him the angry humming bird is because he will not let any other bird drink out of the feeder. He fights all of them. I have tried putting another feeder up in the front and he thinks they are both his.

Now he will share with his mate, most of the time. He will sit in the trees in the back and just sing away. Oh, humming birds do not have a pretty song, kind of a squeaking noise.

There, this is a short post, but it at least a post. I need to run Rebecca out to do her child care thing for the morning. Until the next post hope you are having a great day....

Well, Time Sure Does Fly By....

2007-09-27T13:39:00.001-07:00

So, I thought part time work was maybe 3 or 4 days a week for a few hours. I was so wrong. Seems that I have been put in as a person that can work hours and days. Next week I have 6 days listed in which I will be working. I know part of it is because one of the gals will be on vacation and I will be filling in her hours. I get on average 4 to 6 days a week right now. I will say it has been interesting....

I don't have any interesting crafty type things to post right now. I have been working on Rebecca's scarf during my meal breaks. Tomorrow I am suppose to be off and hope to take the kids out to lunch. This will be followed by shopping for Rebecca because she is in need of new pants. She also wants to use her new gift card she got for doing child care during the summer. Ricky will just have to put up with us shopping. That is the main reason for lunch out, because he really likes going out to eat. He should be good to go for the next couple of hours. Maybe in the coming days I can get this poor little blog all caught up. Will keep my fingers crossed....

(The pictures above are actually some new note cards I got a few weeks back. I like die cut cards like these.)

Friday Is Here Already?!?!?!?

2007-09-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't make the five in row post yet. Had some unplanned events come up....Let's see if I can do it starting with this post.....

While out on an errand I stopped in at Barnes and Noble. I found this book and really enjoy it. Yes, the cover is what drew me to it.

Most of the items are made from just plain socks and gloves. There are also others made from different kinds of socks and even out of a mitten.

The faces and bodies are pretty darn cute.

There is a nice varity of animals and one doll. And I know my mother would like this cat.

I liked this little bird made from a little red sock.

I also really like this elephant made from a gray sock.

There is even some little outfits to be made for creatations. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow. Both photos and excellent line drawings are included. It is not a very thick book, but, covers a lot in a few pages. I liked it very much.

Tuesday, Errands And Planning....

2007-09-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a late night, which made for a long day. That means today it will be going out to pay bills and get the grocery items we are in need of.

The big deal today will be planning out school. This is a years worth of items for the boy. He really doesn't have many hard cover books this year. How this works is his subjects are divided up into 10 units. Each of these smaller books has the reading text, workbook questions and test. I switched to this type of program a few years ago. Rebecca and Ricky really like it better because you see an end to your subject, unlike most textbooks that you use the whole year. The only thing left I have to do for him is get some science equipment that I don't have. All the white books are the answer keys for each subject and the big red book is the math answer key. There are also some teacher guides on that table too.

Now Rebecca does not have many unit books this year. She gets to go back to mostly textbooks because it is just too hard to that amount of information into the small books. The only math she is doing this year is geometry. I think she will enjoy the keyboarding course I got her.

We are still missing the workbook that goes with her Keeping Financial Records. This looks to be a pretty deep course and she will know more about accounting than I think she ever wanted to know. I told her that if she wants to sell stuff on her own at some point that she will be glad she has done this.

There, now you see what all my day will be. Lots of counting pages, reading, coming up with a daily work list for each, and so on. I should be able to work on something fun tonight and hopefully will have pictures to post tomorrow.

Today Is Monday!!!!!!!!!

2007-09-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

I am going to try this again. I will do 5 posts this week. I think what I need to do is have pictures ready to go the day before the post. Just a little bit of pre-planning I think is the way to go for me. I will adjust to this working thing yet....I did work all weekend and am finding retail to be very interesting. Also, people can just be plain interesting sometimes. And come the day I am in a mood, I might post about women shoppers and men shoppers.

No crafty/making pictures right now. I have been working on Rebecca's scarf some at work. But, mostly I end up talking on the good old cell phone to Mr. V on my breaks. This weekend was the first time where I worked long enough to have, as they say, a meal break. Oh wait, I was talking pictures wasn't I. Here are a couple of squirrel pictures for the day.

As you can see he is growing a lovely tail for the winter. We have been feeding them some pine nuts I had leftover and need to replace with some fresh ones. They don't care, they still like the way they taste and they don't have to shell them.

I have a short shift tonight and the next two days off. I will be looking forward to that. Soooooo, I should have no excuses not to make a post the next couple of days!

Going Out To Lunch Thursday...

2007-09-13T10:09:00.001-07:00

Have the day off and got to meet up with Mr. V for lunch. I dropped by his work, picked him up, and off we went to the Folsom Outlets to eat at the Hof Brau. It is ran by to very guys and they are always so nice. Today is a very pretty day and we ate outside. And it was actually very quiet there.

Earlier in the morning I roasted some green chilies. The plants were slow growing, but, have now really taken off. I have since peeled them and put them into the freezer for later use. The one grocery store should be getting in the green chilies from New Mexico pretty soon. That will mean more roasting, seeding, and peeling. I might try drying some this year.

It looks as if our lonely morning dove has finally found himself a mate. He has been alone all summer long. He had been just sitting out there eating in the feeder all summer long. We are all happy to see him not just sitting there eating all day long because he had nothing else to do.

I am down to just one more dishcloth and I will be done with the pile of them for Christmas. Until tomorrow, bye............

Something Of Interest Wednesday....

2007-09-12T11:20:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I received one of my all time favorite yarn catalogs. It is the Lion Brand Yarn catalog Fall/Winter. It is always full of new patterns, both free and ones to order. You are able to download the free ones right from their web-site. The only thing I am not thrilled about their site is the fact that you have to log in and get a password to download the free patterns. Other than that, the site is great and it is pretty easy to find patterns from index in the back of the catalog once at the site.

Here is a blanket made with Vanna White's new line of yarns with Lion. She has a very nice color range of yarn. The yarn is already out in most chain stores.

There are a wide range of level for the projects shown. This simple child's sweater (which is one of the free patterns on the site).

To more difficult sweaters for both children, adults and home.

I really find these new circle blankets interesting. There seems to be more and more of these types of patterns showing up.

Here a couple more knitted ones.

And one last crocheted log cabin one.

Last here a couple of nice tops for us gals. I really like the rust colored one. It is simple yet interesting. Tomorrow I have off from work, so I may spend sometime downloading a few patterns. When they will get made, I don't know.

One Bib Done Tuesday....

2007-09-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

I completed the bunny bib today. And have to say I am very pleased with how it turned out.

I think I like this bunny better for something for a baby than used as an Easter card. Now I have one more bib to cross stitch. I need to find a nice letter "L" to put on this one. (The background is suppose to be white. Don't have a clue why it looks blue in this picture. Maybe it is the lighting...)

I am on my last few days of training at work. Should be ready to go next week, HA HA.....At least they think I will be ready. I have about a dozen questions that I need answered. Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to get them out of the way at work. I akso still have low hours this week. But, starting Sunday my hours really start picking up. You know the only really big thing that I am having to adjust to is the noise level. I thought I was use to back ground noise, but, guess I was wrong. I have had to have folks repeat stuff a few times. I think the rest of this week will be much better. My brain should understand what is going on now.

I hope to be back to daily postings again starting today. I have some books to share that I got today while taking the Ricky and Rebecca out shopping this morning. So until tomorrow, so long.........

Adjusting Well....

2007-09-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

So far so go with the working. Have a lot to learn and am hoping that some of it will start sticking. But, I have only had two days on the sales floor. My next day of work is Friday evening.

Rebecca cooked her first dinner for everyone on Tuesday. It was a chicken stew. Was a quick stew and she did a really nice job.

The winds have shifted around here and a forest fire has decided to share its smoke with us. That means you get a nice red sun in the morning (much darker red in real life). Guess we will have smoke all day and then tonight the wind should start up and blow it out of here.

I was going to take Ricky and Rebecca to the Crocker Art Museum today, but, she is feeling a little under the weather. Will have to try for next week with them. Have some books to post in my next posting of ideas for small projects.

Fast Post Tuesday...

2007-09-04T12:07:00.001-07:00

I started work on Sunday evening. I go in again today for the evening. I will only be working 4 hours each shift until after my 2 week training period ends. I have to admit I think I will not mind having to wear some kind of red shirt and tan pants each day I work. It will be interesting to see how many different kinds of red tops I end up with.

I did start a baby bib yesterday after taking Mr. V to the guitar sales for Labor Day. He only bought strings.

This pattern is for a cross stitch card, but, I thought it would make a cut baby bib.

I have been thinking of small projects to take with myself when I do have meal breaks in a couple of weeks. I am thinking of taking embroidery since that would be small and easy to take. I also have these books that I have been wanting to try something out of. And also told Rebecca to think about maybe trying it with some of her drawings or she could draw me something to try also. Here are the names and links for each book:

Sublime Stitching by Jenny Hart

Colorful Stitching by Kristin Nicholas

The New Crewel by Katherine Shaughnessy

Color Color by Janet Haigh

Well, it back to getting things ready for school around here. Decided we would start in next week since this is a short week and everyone is adjusting to Mom going to work.

Very Hot Wednesday....

2007-08-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Today was Rebecca's check up with the dental surgeon. He took out what stitches she had left and looks good. Will have a little bleeding for a few more days and then that should stop. In a couple of months her holes should be all filled back in where the wisdom teeth were. Until then she will have to shot warm water in the holes. He is such a nice man, gets all disappointed when he sees bruises on his patients. We knew ahead of time she would have some.

Here is a new scarf I have started for Rebecca. The yarn is very soft and has been pretty easy to knit with so far. The wait at for her check up was only a few minutes so didn't really get much knitting done on it.

Afterwards we went and finished some paperwork for me. Stopped at a store she likes since we were up that way. She got two magazines and a CD. We then had lunch at Panda Express. Followed by some shopping for work cloths for mom. Which meant that Rebecca got 3 new tops.

Last we stopped at Costco to pick up a few food items. And had to get our squirrels some more peanuts because they will be stopping by more often next month to get ready for winter. (The stuffed squirrel is Kandy's favorite dog toy. I think it is because we have all grey squirrels and this one reminds her of them.) Guess I will close for now and put away the other household items I got this afternoon. My goal tomorrow is not to go anywhere!

What An Interesting Day....

2007-08-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

Well, I went to what was suppose to be my first interview. Which turned into the second interview. Which turned into lets go to talk to this person. Oh, and by the way before you talk to her" Welcome to Target" as new employee. Not really sure how that happen, but, it did. Just went into to talk and left with a job. Need to do the old drug test thing tomorrow and wait for the background check to come back. This takes anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks. Just depends on how busy the lab is. Some how I ended up with an interview with the manager of the store. I will say right now it was hard doing an interview after all these years. Looks as if I will be working in what they call soft-wear. Which means women's clothing, shoes, jewelry, and so on. I really think this is for the best right now, since it has been so looooooooooooooong since I have gone off to work. This will fit the bill for now, a job that I don't have to take home and still leaves me time with the family. Just did not want a technical job again. The big question to be answered is how long will Mr. V be able to handle this????????? He does enjoy our time together very much........

Found this picture on my childs site. Just thought it was fun. Have to admit I like the little bombs with faces on them. Until tomorrow so long...................... Guess I should not forget my eldest child who is working on her new web-site here. She still has her deviantArt site too.

Fast Post Monday....

2007-08-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Rebecca is doing well after having her impacted wisdom teeth remove. She has very large cheeks now and she is starting to turn green on face. Will be interesting to see how bruised she will get.

I thought I would share one of the good reasons to have a little dog.

You forget how devoted they are when someone is not feeling well.

Kandy stayed with her all day and still sits with during the day.

Also one is never too old to get a new little animal toy.

The dog is oh so very soft and the hamster is to hang on a backpack.

And being Rebecca, I could not pass up this unicorn that has a purple mane and tail.

Tomorrow is a busy day. Told Renee I would drop her off at a job interview that is at 7 AM (why???)...Then it is off to the orthodontist with the boy to get his bands off. Then run down the street to the dentist so he can get his teeth cleaned. Then back to the orthodontist to get the bands all put back on. Of course I just got a message for me to call a gal about a job interview tomorrow. I will take some cloths with me if she would like me to come in that day. Can drop the boy off at dad's work while I run over to the place. If not will see about going the next day after I take Rebecca back to the surgeon to see how she is healing up. Will be interesting to see how all this works out......

Hot Weather Is Here Wednesday....

2007-08-22T16:47:00.000-07:00

Our days of being below normal have come to an end. It is right now 100 degrees F. We are for sure back to normal August temps here in the Sacramento valley area.

Once again I guess one could say life has gotten in the way of posting. Last night was a flat tire on the good old van. Mr. V did show the boy how to change a flat in heat of the evening. We were talking about the movie A Christmas Story and the changing of the tire between Ralphie and his dad. Had a good laugh at that one.

I drove over to the closest tire place this morning. Found out my tire was unfixable and needed to be replaced. Decided their new tires were a little pricey and ask if they had a used one I could drive on for now. As luck would have it they did. Will go and price tires this weekend. Just don't want to spend a lot of money on the van right because we are thinking of replacing it with something smaller since we don't need all the extra seating like we use to. We are thinking of replacing it at some point with maybe this.

Naturally while I spent my hour sitting at the tire place I started another dishcloth. I am down to just filling in one or two with each set. Then I will be done with my sets of 5 dishcloths. I think I will end up with about 8 or 9 sets to use at Christmas.

Tomorrow is Rebecca's big day to have her 4 impacted wisdom teeth pulled. This is all the stuff for afterwards for her to take. Such a lucky kid.....I will bring some crocheting and something to read tomorrow while I wait for her. She came with me shopping today to pick out the pudding she wants and jello. Bought plenty of eggs for the next day and have broth all set to go. In a couple of days she should be able to eat regular food.

As I said at the beginning it has become very warm here again. On the upside this is making the peppers grow.

We now have plenty of nice large chilies getting ready.

On the downside of being very warm, it is too warm for a dog to sleep in her bed.

I am hoping to have some bibs finished this weekend so I will have an item to post other than dishcloths.....Time to go make food for everyone....Seems like people always want to eat....Oh, we will have one less tonight. Renee is off to the fair to see Daughtry. Am sure she will have a great time.....

Friday Is Here And The Weather Is Great....

2007-08-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

Another week has come to an end. The weekend is suppose to be wonderful weather wise. The California State Fair started today. Hopefully we will be able to get over to it next week.

This is just one of those months were it seems like there is a lot going on. Yesterday was

Mr. V's first meeting with the Rheumatologist. Spent a few hours there. Lots of talking and poking. Will find out more next month after he gets a hold of the X-Rays and whatever else he wants to look at. Next week Rebecca gets her four impacted wisdom teeth removed. She has already put in her request for pudding. And I know one will have to be chocolate. The day after that is our anniversary. We have made no plans for that. And this is my six month mark after having my tumor and couple of other icky things taken care. This is the month everything is suppose to be back to normal. Will be interesting to see if that is true.

Today was spent being the complaining person (I was polite, but, stern). The construction folks have done a big no no on the the side of the house. Aren't cleaning up after themselves as well as they should (I took care of it for them) and then they broke my little fence. So, I called the project manager and left a message on his phone. Within 20 minutes his boss and him were at my door. Gee, I was thinking a phone call would be fine. Told them it wasn't so much that they broke the fence, it is that they didn't even come to the door and tell me what they did. All they had to do was say sorry. The two company folks were very very nice. And as I thought the guys doing the work were ones they sub contracted with. Told me they were going to have them replace the fence and get the equipment moved from away from my yard. The project manager and his boss turned out to be helpful with a couple of questions we had too.

I have been looking at this little blog also today. Decided I need to sit down make it look more interesting. Have started cleaning up the links. Now need to figure out how to do a banner and what kind of banner to make. I also think there is more I can do with this blog, but, just haven't sat down to figure everything out yet.

I will try to post some pictures this weekend of things I am working on. I have the girl baby blanket almost done. Which is good, because our Lauren Grace is now here (and very cute from the pictures that were sent). Have few more things to put together and send them off to new little girl.

It is that time to go hang out with my two guys now. Hope everyone is having a lovely week so far.....

I have no idea why, but, Blogger is not letting me put spaces in between my paragraghs right now. This is not the first time this has happen! Maybe tomorrow it will WORK......

Mild Summer Wednesday....

2007-08-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed with a very mild summer so far. Has been nice for a change. Just can't open up the house much during the day because of all the road work trucks that keep driving by and making lots of dust.

Today was pretty much a driving around day. Which means I didn't get to do much of anything. That is why I thought I would post a couple of new magazines. I also realized that I am way behind in doing that looking at the stack I have made of them. Yes, magazines are my weakness.

This first one is a new one for me. And I think I would buy it again. It is called Do It Yourself by Better Homes and Garden. The nice thing is that many of the projects shown in the homes have the how to listed with them. The bench at the end of the bed in this picture is made from two old end tables.

I liked the walls in this breakfast area.

The next page shows you how to they did the stenciling. I just might have to give this a try some where in the house, someday....

Having a small house I always like to see small spaces that are used like this little desk area.

I thought this little laundry station was a great use of an old cabinet.

Like the before picture and close up shots of the little areas. This would not work for us, too many of us. But sure would work for one or two people.

The next magazine is another Better Homes and Garden one. It is called American Patchwork & Quilting. Lots of great pictures.

This quilt is a nine patch and this picture doesn't do it justice. Should of scanned the close up, but, then you don't get to see the whole thing. Any way it is a quilt by Kelly Alford.

They have an article all about her that I am looking forward to reading. I liked too that there was this picture of her 8x8 foot studio. Would love a little space like that.

Think my Rebecca would like this quilt. Why, because it is shades of purple. Yep, she is a purple person. Even bought herself two purple or lavender colored shirts today. (You see my two gals spent part of the day at the mall. Renee is getting depressed because no tech folks are calling her to offer her a job. Told her to hit the mall and see if there is some kind of job there. She took Rebecca with her and they did some shopping while there. Down side she didn't find any work. Up side she has an interview with Macy's next week from an application she filled out on-line. Let's keep our fingers crossed for her. I think she is looking into going into business for herself at some point. But, for now just needs some money. She is also taking a Japanese language course that starts in a couple of weeks. Should be fun.)

And last, there was this Fall banner that I liked. It seems to made pretty much with glue and fusible webbing.

Tomorrow is a day in which I will be driving most of the day. So I am sure I will not have much to post. But, I might do some more magazine posting. See if I can't make the stuff, I still can enjoy looking at it. Tonight will be spent crocheting and watching So You Think You Can Dance. Last two shows this week. Three of the dancers I really really like are in the final four. Will be fun to see who wins tomorrow.

Road Work Tuseday....

2007-08-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

They are redoing all the roads in my neighborhood. Poor little house has been shaking all morning with them ripping out bad parts of road and then replacing those parts. Looks like this will be going on for the rest of the month.

Missed my posting yesterday. My yard working child has not been able to do the yard work for me for the past two weeks. He caught the flu bug his sister brought home. He is at the point now where you get hives on hands, elbows, knees, and feet. I know this in not an allergy because his other sister had the same effect after the fever and coughing thing. I have been washing everything to make sure I have gotten rid of any icky stuff that might be floating around this house.

Since most of my days are washing stuff right now I will post some kind of dark pictures of Rebecca's button bracelet's she has made.

I do enjoy the fact that she makes jewelry to match all her tops she wears during the week.

These look simple, but, I know they are time consuming because of having to wire each button to the chain.

Back to washing rugs I go. Miss not being able to use the clothesline because of all the dust the road equipment makes. Oh, one down side of having a house on a corner is, they park all the road equipment in the evening next to the house. Is interesting to see all the different kinds of road things they use.

Another Tuesday, Another Day Of Cleaning....

2007-08-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

My gang is finishing up their cold/flu bug they got. They spread it out so it has been weeks now since no one has been ill. At least they only share it with each other and not with me or Mr. V.

That means my day has been spent washing everything in sight since I don't know how long these germs hang around. In between that I have made the valance (finally) for the bathroom in the hallway. I see that window is much wider than I remember, so the valance isn't has full as I would like. But, it will do and looks much better than the naked window in the shower.

I made my self sit down and finish the doll outfit today (in between the washer and hanging stuff out to dry).

I think this outfit is for a taller gal. And I really need to work on sewing little things again. There are many things I would change if I make this again. Sewing the narrow bias tape around the neck opening was interesting. Right now the top is just pinned in the back. Not sure what I will use to close it with yet.

The more I look at her the more I think she should only wear dresses or short leg bottoms. Don't think she does well in long pants.

Well, it is once again that time of day where I need to start some food making for the evening. Renee won't be home, she is off enrolling in a Japanese language class with her friend. She said the cost for her was going to be $86 and she thinks it is two evenings a week. Will keep posting about how that class goes. I am off to the kitchen and then back to washing cloths, have a great day........

Monday Is Here Again...

2007-08-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

I had a bunch of posts waiting for pictures (because I had miss placed the batteries for the camera, which I have now found). Decided this morning to delete them because just didn't make much sense to post them so far after the fact. I think the only interesting thing that I deleted was last Thursday. Went on a site visit with Mr. V. When we got there the corral now had 9 horses running around. Mr. V went to open the gate, but, one of the horses decided he didn't want to move. So, I went over to the far corner and called the gang. Once a couple came over and got petted the others followed. Mr. V was able to go into the middle to unlock his gate so he could fix what had gotten broken on the door. I wish I had had my camera to take pictures of the horses because they were all very friendly. I liked how they were so interested in watching Mr. V work. I also need to get a picture of one of these kind of cell towers. Around here if you live in a wooded area the cell towers are made to look like pine trees. Kind of like a giant artificial Christmas tree, very interesting to see put together.

Onto everyday life. First still no job, but, it hasn't even been a full week yet. I have a feeling I will not really hear anything this month. This is always the slow time of year for hiring. I have been working on the baby blanket and am now onto the third skein of yarn. The picture above is of last week when I started on the second skein of yarn.

Last Friday I finally got the serger out. And today I will be sewing on the good old regular sewing machine.

I needed to make 6 new napkins for Mr. V to use with his lunch. We have found that these very simple 18 inch square sergered napkins work the best. Paper just gets messed up and the cloth can be used for other things if needed. I have learned also, for Mr. V., just a plain segered boarder works much better than a rolled hem. Which is fine with me, because it is easier and faster. The last step is to use Fray Check on the corners. When dry, just trim off the thread tails. There, that's it....

I also, finally, started the valance for the bathroom window (that would be the lavender mini check in the above pile). I have just been putting it off, like everything else. But, now it is cut out and seams done with the serger. All that is left is to sew on the machine.

I will close with a picture of the excited Kandy waiting for a bath and a haircut. I tried to take some pictures of her afterwards, but, she did not wish to have any part of that. You will just have to take my word on it that she looks very pretty now.....

Application Filling Out...

2007-07-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

Yep, I am sure out of the loop on filling out job applications. I had no idea of how long they take now that you fill them out on a computer. I think I have hit all the places that I can. Guess I sit here and wait to see what happens.

While I was out running around I did pick up this pattern. I have wanted an apron that would only use a yard of material. Usually it is just the little tie around half type. Saw this and was happy to see that the apron the gal is wearing only takes a yard. I will have to pull out those 1 yard fabric pieces and give this a try. Mr. V thought I should piece together all my odd size pieces and make this aprons out of them.

Guess this is all for this post. Might skip tomorrow because I need to get some batteries for my camera so I can down load pictures to post. Kids don't use batteries like they use to so had no idea we were out the kind I use (need to get some rechargeable ones for this camera).

Friday And I Made Post Number 5!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-07-27T13:14:00.001-07:00

I did it! I made 5 posts this week....

Oh course, I don't know if I can really count this post. I couldn't think of anything all that exciting to write about. Since I wasn't getting all that inspired I thought I would brow this picture from my child's site. Think it pretty much sums up the day.....Now I did get one thing done and that was filling out an on-line job application. Felt like I was selling my soul, so many questions and the thing took over an hour to fill in. Once again so many questions. Was an interesting experience and sure hope the next few don't take as long as that one. I am just looking for something simple to get back into the world of work. Maybe that is why I couldn't think of anything creative to post after filling out all those questions (weren't just where you worked before questions, but, if this happens on the job which on of these 4 things would you most likely do and which one would you lease likely do.....lots of thinking).......Hope everyone has a nice weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Random Post For Thursday...

2007-07-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Today was spent looking at paperwork and filling out paperwork. I am missing a much need piece of paperwork before applying for a job that will give a little extra before others. So, I will need to find this first before applying to anything. Also looked at my old resume, and boy is that ever a sad thing. I realize that more than half the places are no longer around. Wonder what that says about me?????? Because of all this messing around with paperwork nonsense I really don't have any interesting pictures to post. But, I did get pretty far already on the baby blanket. This is the second time I have made this one and out of the same yarn. I think making all these dishcloths has made me crochet a little faster, because it seemed like it took forever to get a couple inches last time. Guess that is all the interesting stuff for today. The picture above is one of the new note cards I got this week by Mary Englebreit while at Michael's. I like that she has this line of $1 note card sets there. Until tomorrow, so long......

Day 3 Of Posting For 5 Days In A Row....

2007-07-25T17:40:00.001-07:00

Yep, it is already Wednesday and I am staying on track of posting for 5 days in a row. Now I need to learn to write something a little more interesting once in awhile. The boy did his orthodontist thing this morning. Got what they call power chains put on (in other words cranking his teeth together really tight) and more rubber bands to wear. Needless to say he has a sore mouth this evening.

Being that Mr. V was home I did not get a lot done. I was able to pin the rick rac onto the top doll top while talking on the phone. I will sew it on tomorrow.

Here are a couple of pictures of what I got done yesterday:

I had forgotten how much harder it is to sew tiny seams than big ones. The elastic didn't end up as pretty as I would like, but, this is the first one in a long time. I know what I did wrong and will do better next time.

I think I have found a doll that will fit this outfit after I get it done. I do like the Scottie dogs on the top.

I was also able to get some crocheting done while waiting for Ricky. And at the Guitar Center I started another dishcloth while waiting for Mr. V. This evening I will get to do some more crocheting while watching So You Think You Can Dance with Rebecca. I will admit it has been fun to watch this year. And we have been enjoying watching the local boy do pretty well so far.

Tomorrow will be a day of paying bills (yuck), laundry, cleaning up, finding out employment forms on-line, and maybe some reading along with working on the doll outfit. That is my plan, now lets see if any of it will work out that way.......

Running Around Tuesday...

2007-07-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

I guess this must be the time of year to drive. Mr. V had to take his work truck in for service, Renee wanted to apply for a job while I picked up cleaning stuff, and a friend of the girls needed to be picked up at the train station. Also stopped by the sister of a friend house this afternoon. I am looking into going back to work part time and needed some pointers for getting a job at where she works. Just planning ahead because they do seasonal hiring and I wasn't sure when. I did sew a little this afternoon. I will post pictures tomorrow because I haven't down loaded them yet.

But, I do have something that I thought turned out way better than I thought it would to post about (down loaded the pictures yesterday, thinking ahead on the blog for a change).

Ricky had been wanting one of those tiki lamps you use outside (an oil burning lamp). Had these old 5 gallon buckets we use for yardwork. Mr. V had drilled some holes in a couple for me if I had ever wanted to use it as a planter. As always, had put off doing that for a very long time. So, the bucket was now going to become a lamp holder.

They have been making spray paint to use on plastic for the last few years and had wanted to try it out on something small first. This was going to be the time to do it. The paint covers really well and dries very fast (always a plus). After a few light coats you could no longer see the print.

I then filled the bucket with sand (one 60 pound bag will do). Stuck in the the lamp and we are now all set to go. I took this picture before cutting off the dead geranium flowers, so pay no attention to the brown instead of pink flowers behind it. I did realize the other day that I need to keep the sand wet (have drainage holes so won't get yucky on the bottom). The reason for keeping the sand wet is that I have squirrels that like to dig holes to hide their peanuts in. The wet sand will make it less likely they will dig in there.

The next day will be another orthodontist day for the boy. That always seems to take up the morning. Mr. V is suppose to have the day off, so will see if we do anything or not tomorrow....Until next time, good-bye....

Today Is Monday And I Will Post Everyday This Week.....

2007-07-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

Yes, my goal is to post Monday thru Friday this week! No matter what goes on or how late it is I will stop being lazy and start posting again....

I decided to put the knitted baby blanket aside for now, because it is taking longer than I had planned. I started a new crochet baby blanket since I know of a few babies coming in the next few months. And crocheting blankets goes much faster.

I made a blanket like this last year and was very happy with it. Figured since I had enough yarn for another, now was the time to do it. I will have to make a boy blanket after this so I have one of each. Think I will make a different pattern after this.

I am still working on the dishcloths. Haven't met my goal of 4 a week, but, getting closer to being done. I will have to see what colors I am missing in my groups of 5.

Had wanted to do some sewing today, but, I got sidetracked pruning bushes out front and that took up my whole morning. Maybe tonight or tomorrow I will be able to do some sewing...........

Slow Week So Far....

2007-07-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

Nothing exciting going this week so far. Still just working on dishcloths for Christmas (takes awhile to make up groups of 5).....

Rebecca had a wonderful weekend. Friday was the start of the 3-day Sac-Anime event. That started her excitement.

The program book they were using had her drawing as the back cover and inside cover. There are now over 1,500 folks that have her picture. The girls took Ricky on Saturday. He told a little girl that his sister drew that picture. She went over to Rebecca and asked her if she would sign it for her. Rebecca said it was so cute, the little girl was about 9 years and very happy Rebecca signed it for. Then Rebecca got her program autographed by Chrispin Freeman, so she was even more thrilled. And she had her picture taken with him, more excitement. She had to go back on Sunday to find out who won the digital art contest. Yes, it was her! Got herself a nice little $100 gift certificate, that she had to spend that day at the vendor that gave the certificate. This is one happy 17 year old now..... (Some of the colors in the above picture just didn't scan as nice as they are on the program. Wonder how one fixs something like that???)

Suppose I will get some work done around the house now. All errands are done for the day. Even picked up the two DVD sets that Mr. V wanted. Hopefully as the week goes by I will have some interesting pictures to post.....

Friday Is Here....

2007-07-13T13:39:00.001-07:00

Rebecca watched kids today for a women's book group that meets on Friday mornings. Which is just down the street from a quilt shop. And since there was only 10 minutes before they opened I decided to stop in and see what was around.

I ended up buying a couple of things. The first is this fabric.

I am not sure what to do with it yet.....

Just thought it was cute.....

Then they had just gotten this one in.....

Once again I am not sure what it will be...

It was just cute...

Last I found these fat quarters here and there in the store and thought they would make something nice together.

This is all I have that would be of any interest. I think most of my weekend will be spent trying to cheer up Mr. V....It is hard to have a chronic problem with no answers yet. All in all I think he does well with all he puts up with. We are suppose to have great weather again this weekend so that should be fun.....

An Extra Post For Wednesday....

2007-07-11T17:05:00.001-07:00

I had forgotten that we picked this book up yesterday at Barnes and Noble. My eldest has said she is finally interested in learning to knit.

It is called Charmed Knits Projects for Fans of Harry Potter by Alison Hansel. You can read more by and about Alison here.

I was very happy to see how well written the book is and there are many different kinds of projects.

I will admit I thought this Invisibility Shawl was pretty darn nice looking....

There are sweaters, scarfs, socks, bags, hats, bookmarks, and more.....

There are projects for babies thru adults....(Isn't this hat cute...)

Looks like after dinner Mr. V is feeling pretty good and we might go out to look for a new chair. Every chair we own that is not in the kitchen moves some way or another. And these days we are finding he needs a chair that doesn't move. There are two stores right by each other so I will drive us there later. How exciting, haven't got to look for any new furniture in years......

A Wednesday Of Staying Home All Day.....

2007-07-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, it is so strange spending the whole day at home today. Mr. V has the day off, kids have no where they needed to be, and I had no where I needed to be. My neighbor did come over and gave both guys a haircut this morning. Now yesterday was another story, there was much driving to be done and many places that needed to be. It has been a very nice change just staying home.....

Ricky did complete the moccasins he started yesterday. We found a kit for him to try and he really enjoyed it. He would like to make another pair out of items he picks out and he could make them bigger. I was very proud of the guy, he even took them a part because he didn't think look as nice as they should the first time sewing them up. Once again WOW, he is growing up and taking his time. (Yes, it is a rather large picture, but, figured I owed him that since he did such a nice job...)

One thing I have been working and had not post yet is a cross stitch project from Quick and Easy an issue from November, no. 132 (the magazine has changed name now so don't know if there is a way to get back issues or not, you can try here if interested).

It is suppose to be an advent calendar when done. I know I will be changing the bottom part since I have a hard time locating what they used. But, I have an idea of how I want to make it.

I have a ways to get still, but, hopefully I will be able to get some more of it done this week....Looking at the above picture, it looks like I will have to try a close up picture next time to if that looks better.....

Guess that is about all the excitement going on here. Of course there are always the everyday stuff that goes on...Cooking, cleaning, more cooking, more cleaning, and on and on it goes......Until tomorrow have a wonderful day......

Marigold Monday....

2007-07-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday to all....Hope everyone's weekend was a fun one....We were able to visit with our friends from Oahu on Sunday which was fun.

My plans were interrupted this weekend, so did not get as far as I had hope on the sewing. I do have a doll top and pants cut out. I know you can't tell in this picture but the pants are actually red with white pin dots. I realized this morning that I might not have any elastic in the right size. I will have to look through my boxes and see. Otherwise tomorrow while I am out I will have to stop at the fabric store or Wal-Mart to pick some up.

I was able to get two more dishcloths completed for my Christmas gift giving.

I have been making sun-tea all summer. Since I am the only one that drinks it around this house I have switched to using a quart size canning jar and two tea bags. I don't know why I had not figured this out years ago. I use to use one of those large jars with the spout on the bottom, just for me....This works out so much better.

My Japanese Eggplant has some that are ready to be eaten now. I grew one of these last year for the first time in a pot. And it did really really well. This one seems to be doing just as well this year. I don't need more than just one plant because it produces so much.

Well, I am now off to get some cleaning done before Ricky is back with Ron and his son. They fly back to Oahu tomorrow morning and they had not gone to R/C Country. Which my boy was thrilled to go to with them (and his money in hand with him). Pamoi will stay here after their man shopping so he and Ricky can goof around for awhile. At some point I need to get Mr. V from work since he wasn't able to drive himself this morning. Then maybe this evening I will get to doing something fun.....

Fast Friday Post...

2007-07-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

The weather is very warm still, was 108 degrees F yesterday, new record temp. for us here. Suppose to start going down today. There is a lot electrical usage today, figure I will make this short. Should turn off the computer after this to help out with power usage.

Tomorrow the girls are going to an amusement park all day. Will drop them off early in the morning and then pick them back up at night. I am sure they will have a good time. I plan on trying to work on a doll outfit or two while they are gone.

I am going to use this material.

I still am not sure what pattern I will do or what size/sizes.

I realized that there are no baby dolls floating around this house any more. I guess I need to have a couple so I can try things out to see how they fit. Will have to look around next time I am out to see what I can find.....

My new pool pump came yesterday and naturally I am missing a part for it (didn't know I needed it to make the pump work with my pool). So had to order that this morning. I do have a really small pump running now, so everyone can use it now. Just will be easier to keep clean once that new bigger pump is in.

I suppose it now my turn to do my part by conserving some power and will turn off the computer during this busy time. I am sure we will be getting a pretty darn big electric bill next month with having to run the A/C so much. Oh well, at least it is cool in the house.....Have a great weekend.......

Happy 4th of July...

2007-07-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

We are having a very hot holiday here in Sacramento.

We are still without a major pump for the little pool, sooooooooooooooo, no playing in the water. Oh how sad......

Since it is suppose to be around 105 degrees F or I think that is 44 degrees C (not sure on that one)....We will be spending most of the sunny hours inside.

We decided to do all cooking indoors too, since I wasn't in the mood to grill outside. Very happy we bought this indoor grill a couple of years ago. We will go outside when it is dark so the boy can light off some fireworks for us to watch. He is looking forward to that.

Tomorrow is time to take Rebecca to the dentist for her 6 month cleaning. So that will eat up most of the morning. Today is also suppose to be hot, hopefully we will get done pretty quick so we can come home to the good old air conditioned house.....

Happy Birthday Renee.....

2007-07-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

Happy 21st birthday to Renee.

Her day has gone well. Even had a small interview with a manager at Barnes and Noble. Sure hope she hears from her in the coming weeks.

We all had way more chocolate cake than we needed. But, it was great. Your dad and I are very proud of you. You have been a great kid.....

A New Month And A New Week......

2007-07-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. So far this week is going well. Just checked

with Mr. V and he is doing fine. He will be driving himself home. Ricky and I went out birthday shopping for his oldest sister Renee. Our baby girl is 21 years old tomorrow (and still looks like she should be in high school). She hasn't made any suggestions as to where she would like to go for dinner or lunch. Might just get take out she likes and eat at home. I will admit she is very much a home-body and enjoys that much more than going out.

The afternoon was taken up with raking up the many dead leaves on the side of the house. I knew there were a lot of them, but, was very surprised at the large pile I ended up with. It now looks very clean over there and I will have to keep up with it.

Since the afternoon was nothing but cleaning outside I thought this would be a great chance to post pictures for possible next blanket to crochet.

I wish there was a better picture of the log cabin blanket on the bed, but, this is the best I can do.

I don't really care for the colors in this one. I do, however, like the simple use of the colors and squares.

I am really thinking of this one (even though the purple and green one would be easier). I am not sure what colors I would use. But, I really like the different size square centers used. Makes for an interesting look.

We are now getting ready for the hot weather to start this week. It is suppose to get to the 100's. Naturally the pump to our little 16 foot pool went out. Which means no one can use the pool now until I can get a replacement. I ordered one this morning on-line. I just checked it and they have not done anything else. I sure hope they ship it by tomorrow.

Tonight I will be making another dishcloth. I am getting closer to getting them done. I looked through them this morning to figure out what colors were missing still. Picked up two solid colors while Ricky and I were out shopping this morning. Next I will have to figure out what to do with all those little balls of cotton yarn leftover.......

Let's Try This Again...

2007-06-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

I have figured out part of my problem of not being able to post is that I ended up with a couple of commutes. I drive there and then home. Then I drive there again and home again. I think I have it figured out now how to manage my time. Tomorrow and Thursday Mr. V has off. I understand I get a date out tomorrow afternoon with him. And I get dinner too!!!! I am very much looking forward to that.

I have had to do some sitting time with Mr. V. Which means I get to work on nothing but dishcloths for now. I suppose I could weave in all the tails now, but, that just wouldn't be all that interesting would it....

At least I will make my goal for Christmas.

I figure I need about 30 of them. Will start making more that match what I have so far. Would like 5 for each set I decided. I will also admit this is really helping to learn to crochet with more even tension. The blanket also helped out a lot with that....Oh, just remembered, I found a pattern for a new blanket and will have to scan it in. Little more work, but, shouldn't be too hard.

I also realize that I have not finished the scarf for Ricky yet. His Dr. Who/Tom Baker scarf sits in its bag waiting to get done. I will have to get back to that next week.

The colors are very very 70's aren't they........

Well, I am off for my afternoon pick up run. I am hoping to be able tomorrow or this evening to get all caught up on my blog reading. Have been wanting to so bad read about everything everyone is up to. Is fun looking at all the lovely pictures too. Mr. V seems to be having a good week, so I should have some time to just sit alone for awhile and read again.....

Until tomorrow....Have a great evening......

A Friday Post....

2007-06-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

Well, another week has come to an end. I just want to say that I am impressed by all who are working outside the home and still have time for family & making things everyday. I am back to doing shuttle service this week. Mr. V has a few bad days, so am driving him to and from work. He is able to drive himself home today so that is nice. Rebecca has the last day of Vacation Bible School today so that will be one less trip next week. Then there is making sure to spend some time alone with each family member everyday and the time that takes. I like that part best, but, still it sure takes a lot of time. Like I said earlier I am impressed with all that find time to make stuff everyday......

The only thing I have been working on are the dishcloths. I keep making them different colors so it has not been that uninteresting. They are very simple and easy to take with me in the van while I wait.

I have bought all new pool chemicals for the pool. The water is still a little cloudy and figured my problem was that chemical used to make it clear had lost its strength. It isn't a large pool, but, big enough for everyone to have fun in. So I get to vacuum out the pool and the house during this time. Oh boy, more vacuuming just what I look forward to.....

A couple of weekends ago there was the big air show near the house. Had some interesting planes fly by. Really enjoyed watching these three. The old, the kind of new, and the brand new. I had been meaning to post these pictures, but, just kept putting it off. There are others but figure most aren't that interested in seeing pictures of planes.... Oh, one last thing, did you know it is really really hard to take pictures of fast moving planes.....

Last week was graduation day for Renee. She is all done for now with college. Was a very program held at this lovely old theater. Now all she needs is a job. Hard to think she is that old already. She really wants a job for now with the book store Barnes and Noble. It sounded hopeful the day she applied, so hope they call her soon....

There, now you know pretty much what I have been up to lately. This weekend I hope to get some yardwork done. Have some things that have been waiting for over a week to get planted. They say we are suppose to have very pleasant temperatures this weekend. Sure hope so....

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. I know the dog will......

Happy Monday To Everyone....

2007-06-18T17:59:00.001-07:00

It is the start of yet another week. I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. Sunday was Father's Day around here. Mr. V enjoyed his day very much and we all ate way too much. Tomorrow we will have to get back on diets and being good.

For Father's Day I had ordered Mr. V a DVD box set of an old TV show he liked (we also got him a guitar repair manual that he was very excited about). And since I ordered this Amazon decided I should get a book for me. Which met they had one of those buy this book and this other book to get this great discount. So I ended up with two very nice books. The first one is Romantic Home Sewing. It is a very nice book with some really simple things to make.

I have always wanted to make one of these bucket bags and now have no reason not to give it a try. There are about 4 other types of bags to make in the book.

The book also has one of those things I look for most in a book, plenty of pleasant pictures to look at. And the instructions seem pretty easy for making the items shown

There are also items to wear with full instructions in the back of the book.

And there was even a bunny included to make.

The second book is called The French-Inspired Home. Once again a very pretty book to look at. The size is a little hard to scan, so only a few so-so pictures to look at.

This is the book I had not planned on getting. And I have to say I am very happy that I got it. In the picture above there are many items and the book has the how-to's for everything you see in the picture. I mean even the covered books and name plates for the inside. There is even a section in the back of old tags and other pictures for you to use with your copier.

The writing is very enjoyable to read. All in all I was very happy with this book.

I am hoping for a nice quiet week. Rebecca is working at Vacation Bible School all week. This year it is a Space/Detective theme. The woman in charge, Linda, has done a fantastic job again decorating for all the little kids. She always has such great things for them to look at and do. And Rebecca said the music and skits were just great. This year Rebecca is helping to run the crafts for the younger children. It looks like just taking her to and from in my main driving for the week. Mr. V is feeling some what better and was able to drive himself today. I am really hoping to get back to making something a little more interesting this week. But, only time will tell if that happens. I have been kind of wanting to make doll clothes and maybe this week or next I will get to. I know of a couple of really little girls who love their baby dolls, so I am sure I will have a test market to try them out on. Of course there is those curtains that are still waiting to be made that should be started.....

Another Week Of No Control Of Time...

2007-06-13T13:06:00.000-07:00

Yep, seems like I am getting to spend very little time here at home. And when I am here someone needs something. Decided I will do little posts of nothing much. I have been making more dishcloths. They are not all that exciting to look at by themselves. Will post a picture of a group of them next week. At least I have a picture by my child Rebecca to post. It is an older picture, but, one I find interesting. Enjoy........

Sunny Friday...

2007-06-08T16:43:00.001-07:00

We are still having the most lovely weather. I wonder when it will end?????

I have not gotten much done here today. That is why I thought I would post about a book I am hoping to read this weekend. It is called The Apron Book. I had thought about getting this book for sometime now. I saw it again Tuesday while I was out doing some errands and decided it needed to come home with me.

The book is the kind I like the most. The book has patterns for making your own aprons. And the rest of the book is information about aprons. The part I like best, in these types of books, is all the stories of folks pasts or of people they knew and what the aprons they wore meant.

I would love to find a copy of this pattern from when Cinderella was released.

Now you know what I will be doing for part of my weekend. Hope you have an enjoyable one too......

Thursday Short Post...

2007-06-07T15:46:00.001-07:00

Today is a short post day. Poor Mr. V had to get a ride home early because he was having an attack. At least he was able to make it back to his work truck in time to take some meds. He is home and doing much better. I gave Mr. F a ride back to the parking lot that he left his truck in so he could give Mr. V a ride back here. Thank you Mr. F for all your help.

So my plans of getting the quilting done on the cushion and getting the corner cleaned up for planting sunflowers has been put on hold. But, I had promised myself no matter what that I would make a post everyday this week (or at least 5 posts).

The afternoon has been filled with the Thunderbirds flying around. Ricky has been enjoying watching them. They use a lot more smoke trails than the Blue Angels do. Which is nice, because you are able to follow where they are better.

Guess this will be all for now. If you would like to see some cute and nice crafty stuff take a look at: Biscuits House very cute doll; Lindsey's bookmarks; Bramblestitches great way to make an insulated lunch bag; and last these very cute bears as seen on Cuteable.

It Is Finally Done...

2007-06-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

Mr. V's blanket is now done. Not all that pleased with the pictures, but, they will have to do for now.

In the house there is no light line like in the above picture. I think I might have gotten a different lot number by mistake. So as long as one looks at it inside the house, the colors all look the same. Just had Mr. V look and see if he could fine the line while the blanket was on the bed and all he said was "What line?"

The little ball of yarn was all that was leftover.

I think this will be the only camo blanket I will be making (unless for some reason the boy wants one sometime in the future). I am willing to another one, but, in a more interesting color and maybe a pretty design of some kind. I had never made anything large before. Found this to be good practice in basic crocheting. Up until now, I had only made a hat, coasters, one small bag, and some dish cloths.

On my way back into the house I saw that I have my first eggplant blossom. I just think that eggplants make some of the prettiest flowers....

I will say "Good-bye" for now. Hope everyone's day has gone or is going well....

**I think the Thunderbirds have just got here for the air show this weekend. I heard a very loud and fast jet just go by. Should make for an interesting next couple of days with all their practicing.**

Wednesday Morning...

2007-06-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Was able to go spend sometime with Mr. V at work yesterday, so got to late to post anything last night.

Ricky has been watching a pair of robins build a nest outside his bedroom window.

She is sitting in the nest in these pictures. But, you can only see her beak a little. I will try to get a better picture during the week. We are hoping to see baby birds in a month or so.

I am almost done with Mr. V's blanket and hope to finish it up this morning. First have some yard work to do and then I can get kids started on school work. So, should be able to finish it while they do that this morning.

Monday Is Here And I Am Back To Posting....

2007-06-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have started the week by doing what I had wanted to do. And that is posting Monday thru Friday. I don't have any pictures of the items I am working on because they are almost done. I almost finished up Mr. V's blanket this weekend. I am on the boarder and hope to have it all done before Friday. Today I was able to work on Ricky's cushion cover and finished quilting all the birds. This afternoon I am working on the boarder; which is just stitching in the ditch so that is pretty easy. I have to admit there is something to doing this quilting by hand that is very relaxing. Not sure why, but, I just fine it enjoyable.

The rest of the day has gone pretty well. Even lunch turned out well. All kids were home so made rice and potstickers for them.

After lunch had Ricky cut the grass and I worked on getting the Jasmine under control. I am trying to get it to cover the whole side. We live on the corner, so have a lot of sidewalk to sweep and the Jasmine was taking over the walk.

I got some small fencing last week (hard to see because it is green). I tied some of Jasmine to it and am hoping this will help keep the vines under control. I was also very proud of myself because I had exactly enough fencing to run the area I needed it in. Is always a good day when I don't have anything left over.

Maybe later in the week I will go after this mess. The shrub roses too are trying to take over the sidewalk. They have some pretty big thorns on them this year, so I really need to cut them back.

I was happy to see there are still some marigolds that the snails haven't eaten yet. I need to put some more bait out for them and maybe the flowers will live then.

I found this quilting thread the other day. I am not sure what I am going to do with it yet, but, just thought it was different. I like that it is variegated and I am sure there is something interesting to be done with it. The thread is from Coats and you can follow the link to see the other colors.

I will close with this link to Calvary Chapel Westminster. We had some wonderful music from them this weekend at church. If you ever have a chance to visit or hear them you will enjoy it very much. (I give up, I have been trying to get the spacing correct in this post and it just doesn't seem to want to let me do what I want. I will just live with it.....)

Friday Is Here...

2007-06-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

All right, so once again I was wrong about getting back on track with my posting stuff. This time I can blame Mr. V because he was goofing around on the computer. That's fine, he was looking up guitar stuff and seem to be having a good time. And then it was time to watch So You Think You Can Dance with Rebecca.

My goal for this new month is finish up as many of the large WIP's I have started. Right now I am still working on the blanket for Mr. V and think this weekend might be it for it. I really think the thing will be done. I don't think I will be crocheting anything that large for awhile. The blanket is extra wide because I wanted it to be able to drape over the chair in living room he sometimes has to sleep in.

Today I get to post the new book I got on Sunday (kids went to see the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie while I went to the bookstore).

It is called MaryJane's Stitching Room by MaryJane Butters. She also puts out a magazine called MaryJanes Farm which is always very nice to read and just look at.

The book is full of wonderful projects and wisdom/information by MaryJane. The picture above shows you a picture of her in one of the aprons included in the book to make. Her last issue of the her magazine was mostly about aprons and a very nice read.

I couldn't figure out how to show these pictures any better above. They are from the yo-yo part of the book. There is a pattern in the book for the pillow with tiny yo-yo's. I like the yo-yo quilt where the yo-yo's are made into flowers. I thought that was a great idea.

The book is just full of crocheting, embroidery, sewing, cut work, and even tatting.

There is a section on making crocheted rugs out of cotton stripes.

I really liked this crochet scarf from the section on hexagons.

And like a mentioned before there is a section on tatting. I have to admit she makes it look like fun and useful.

I really enjoyed all the lovely pictures in this book. Even if I don't make anything out of it, it is just a pleasure to look at. There are many family references in the book and old photos of her mother and grandmother. And can't forget that her daughter is also in the book.

I suppose I should now get the vacuuming done around the house. Ricky and I did get the van and truck washed this morning so we have nice shiny vehicles in the driveway.

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend....

I Am Still Here...

2007-05-30T15:53:00.000-07:00

Once again time is getting away from me. I admire all the crafty bloggers that are able to keep up with what they love to do and keep a blog all updated. I on the other hand have not figured out how to both of those and keep up with everyday life. Mr. V has been having some bad Dizzy Dad days, so have been taking care of him. Poor guy......Also helped Renee get all her banking set up so she can start paying bills and whatever else she needs to do. Now all she needs is a JOB...

Today was orthodontist day, which means Ricky and I were able to shopping errands also. Ricky got to have lunch out at Mel's Diner and was very happy about that.

Ricky and I found a boat for Kandy. She doesn't like getting wet, but, does enjoy floating around.

I put her in the boat and took some quick pictures to post.

The breeze just kept pushing her around.

Tomorrow I should be able to get back on track and have something a little more interesting to post......

A Random Post For Today....

2007-05-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

Mr. V has had the last two days off. And needless to say, when he is home I really don't get all that much done. He never takes vacation, so has many days on the books that he needs to use up now. It is nice being able to spend sometime with him....

I have been able to keep up with my goal of dishcloths to used as presents later on....

I did start a bunch of pink ones this week. This color combo always reminds me of ice cream...

I have started looking for ribbons to tie up the dishcloths with and seem to be having good luck at Michael's craft store. I will have to go look for some pink and tans next trip...

I will have to try to get back to Ricky's cushion cover this weekend. I have been watching TV in the evenings with Rebecca and find it is easier to do simple crocheting while doing that.

The other project this weekend is to clean up the corner in the back to plant sunflowers. I will also be sticking some of these tomato plants that keep springing up with my peppers. This is the spot of the never dying tomato plant of last year. That thing was a monster and now seems to want to live on with its children.

I planted a couple in pots and they great like crazy. Will be interesting to see how they grow....

As I continue on with this really random post, I will share with you what I found in my sock basket (I stick things in there for safe keeping). It is an old toy of mine (and I mean really old toy). Was one of my favorite things in the world for years. It is a toy lunch box and Thermos. Guess it is time for it to come out of hiding for awhile and sit on a shelf.

These last two pictures are just for fun. The one above is of my laundry area in the garage. Even Mr. V got a good laugh out of how nice it looks in the picture. As long as I don't show the shelves it looks like a real laundry area. We did decide today that instead of him making doors for the shelves that I will make some blue gingham curtains for the shelves. That way it will not matter if a box is a little too long for the shelf. Fabric is more forgiving than wood.

And now I will close with a picture of Kandy. She wanted to come in and I wasn't letting her in until I got a picture of her. Love the wild eye look she has in this picture......

Protractor Tuesday...

2007-05-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Today Ricky is having to a lot of angle measuring with a protractor. So far he isn't as excited as I had hoped. Will have to find him something more interesting to measure sometime.

Well, yesterday I had plans to post pictures of stuff. But, Mr. V got off work early so he could fix the fence between our house and the neighbor behind us. Mr. V called her landlord to let him know what he was going to do. As always the landlord is fine with anything, but, the gal living there we will just say is an interesting person. Anyway we spent our afternoon repairing the fence. Mr. V only had to use one of redwood fence pickets from my stash (yes, others have yarn or fabric stashes, but I have a fencing stash). I now have fence posts that done move in the wind anymore.....

I have decided that my new favorite magazine is Quilts and More put out by Better Homes and Gardens. I like all the different kinds of projects in the magazine. Wish girls were still small because I would make them the butterfly T-shirt that is on the cover. There is also a small article about Heather Bailey in the front.

The new item I like in the magazine is the use of the web-site they have set up for it. For example the pillow above has some piping on it. Well, you just go to the web-site and look for the information on the how to. Right now this current issue has not been posted so I could not link to the article they suggested yet. I am sure it will be there by the end of the month. There is a lot of interesting information on this site and videos too.....

I thought these little bags were nice and found the insturctions pretty clear for someone to learn how the add a zipper.

I thought this was a pretty quilt.

I like when they show a different version of the same quilt and have it used in a completely different type of room.

And last was this quilt using a bubble fabric with white inserts. And then using perle cotton to emboridary around the circles and then onto the white fabric.

On Sunday I had a nice trip to the bookstore, so I have a couple of books to post about during the week. That way if Mr. V comes home early or has a couple of unplanned days off I will have something to post. I still haven't downloaded any new pictures. Will try to get that done today. But, the first thing I need to do is get those bills paid. I should have done that yesterday....Have a great day.......

A Day of No Driving....

2007-05-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

I didn't have to drive anywhere today!!!!!!!!! How great is that!!!!!!!!

The kids and I actually got some schoolwork done. We will be doing school all Summer to get caught up. Just too many things happen this past Winter and put us behind. That is fine with me. I had to convince Ricky to let me read his Social Studies to him. I actually enjoy doing that and I know we can cover a lot more material if I do the reading to him then waiting for him to read it. I think I enjoyed doing it more than he did, hey, we sat outside while we worked on it. I really need to do more schoolwork outside. It is much more enjoyable.

Well, this week I started working on Christmas presents. Yes, folks I did say Christmas. If I don't start now nothing will get done just like it does every other year.

I am making dishcloths right now. I want to make up sets of 6 cloths and some how bundle them together really pretty. I am going to try to make 4 a week until I have enough. It is a very simple pattern (which is normal for me). I got the pattern from Cozy Crochet by Melissa Leapman. I like the pictures in the book and am finding that is one of the big selling points with me on craft type books. The more enjoyable to pictures the more likely I am to buy it.

We are still having beautiful weather and it makes it so hard to stay inside to work on things. I have the above ground pool up and running. Ricky has gone in it everyday. He is way braver than I. The water is still too cold for me, but of course he is our waterboy and has always loved being in it. Have told him when he turns 16 will let him go take scuba diving lessons if he would like to. There is a really nice place that offers lessons just down the street from Mr. V's work.

I think I am back to doing my daily posts now. Hopefully I will be able to post some interesting things over the coming months.

I Am Back....

2007-05-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

At one point in my life I seemed to have been much more in control of my time. I do not know what has happen over the last couple of years, but, boy can I ever get off track now days. I do plan on, starting today, getting back to my once a day postings Monday thru Fridays. I have pretty much figured out my camera and will start posting some pictures tomorrow.

Last week we did have a lovely visit with my friend Katy and her son Pomai. They headed back home to Ohau on Monday. Understand they will be back visiting along with hubby Ron the end of June for a trip with Ron's sister and her husband. Will be nice seeing them again next month.

Yesterday at my local grocery store I was happy to find they now get Romantic Home magazine.

The only down side, sometimes, with these magazines I love, is that I realize I have a long way to go before I will have little areas set up like they show. But, I am sure that will come with time and I realize I have only so many hours in a day. I do really enjoy my life and spending all my extra time with Mr. V and the kids.

I thought this was such a nice laundry room. I still can't figure out how anyone can keep a room like this so extremely clean while cleaning the dirty things I do. But, of course my washer and dryer are in the garage so that really limits things.

Since I do have a magazine buying/reading habit, I couldn't leave the grocery store without this new issue of Home Companion.

There always seem to be a very happy looking kitchen in every issue. I like sunny kitchens/eating areas. Maybe because most of my day is spent in the kitchen area of the house.
Oh, in this issue, Mary Engelbreit has included a print of a very cute Mermaid. And yes there is a paper doll as always.

I suppose I should fold some of that laundry that is sitting here waiting. Boy, when Mr. V has a couple days off I get way behind really fast. Of course this morning I had to take Ricky and Rebecca out to pick up the Dalek that was ordered. And he is pretty fun to drive around. We did make a few stops on the way home to pick up some craft things for Rebecca. Maybe it is these kids that make me get off track of what I should be doing.......

Test Run Post Of Pictures...

2007-05-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

So far new camera is very nice and am enjoying it. Now I am having a problem understanding a few software items. May have to have Mr. V help me out with that one. Anyway here are a few test pictures from my lovely Mother's Day gift:

Regular shot....

Super Macro shot...

And another Super Macro shot....

Regular shot...

This is something I found really nice it is called a Natural light picture. This was taken in at night with just a lamp on. Still to work some with that, but, not bad for no flash in a very dark room.

All right one last picture. My Jasmine is in bloom, really like when it is blooming.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend....

Was An Early Mother's Day Today....

2007-05-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was spent with child number 1 Renee. She had her Ears, Nose and Throat doctors appointment. This was her first time seeing him and he turned out to be really very nice. Renee has been having some very icky nose bleeds and it was time to see what was going on. The doctor took one look and said "Hey, I can fix that right now." All that needed to be done was cauterize it and all should be good. Renee is not one for pain and tends to tense up very much. I was very proud of her, she didn't over react and was very relaxed during the whole thing. My baby has grown up (yes, she is 20, but still our little girl).

Now onto the fun stuff. Mr. V actually has two days off this week (today and tomorrow). Said he wanted to go out to lunch but first go to Circuit City to look at cameras since they were all on sale this week. He had tried mine and said I was right it is all that great. After much looking around he found the one above and liked it very much. You know the big selling feature was that it has a shake control so you won't get blurry pictures, that is one of my biggest problems moving. So, he bought it and a new memory card. Then out the door we headed. He turned and handed me the bag; then said "Happy Mother's Day". Yep, the big guy surprised me this time.

Yes, the new Fuji S5700 is now all mine (I will share with him whenever he wants it). I now will be spending the next couple of days trying to figure out how to use it. Lots of button and many pages in that there booklet that came with it. Hopefully in the next couple of days I will have pretty and clear pictures to post. Maybe for Christmas I will shot for PhotoShop, girls both have it and really like using it. (The old camera is a HP M307.)

After camera buy, it was a stop at the guitar place and then off to lunch. All in all a very nice day.

Slow Moving Day...

2007-05-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been the taxi driver these past couple of days. Which means I have nothing all that exciting to write about or show. But, I do have a picture of the sleeping dog.

Mr. V has been having some of his on going problems so drove him around yesterday, he just wasn't too sure about how he was feeling. Poor guy... He was having problems all week, but, Tuesday and Wednesday were his worst days. Rebecca did make this comic strip about his problem so click on this line to go to the link if you have not seen it before.

Speaking of Rebecca, she has been working on some different textures with her drawing program. To see a larger version of this click here, after you get there just click on the picture and it will enlarge.

Yesterday she was working on this background. She wanted it to look more like a painted background, which I think it does. Like above, just click here then click picture to see it larger.

The main thing I have been working on in the evenings is the blanket for Mr. V. I think I have about 18 inches left to crochet. It is made wide so it can go over a person in a chair, and that is why it takes so long to get done with just one row. I am hoping by the end of May to get it done.

Hopefully I will have something more interesting to post about. Today has been nothing but laundry, schoolwork, and the everyday stuff. Hope all is going well with everyone reading this.

Warm Weather Monday...

2007-04-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

These past few days have been way warmer than normal. Suppose to get back to normal tomorrow. And maybe rain again by this weekend.

Not much has been done around here today. Took Renee over to get some of her graduation stuff done. Found out it will be held at the Crest Theater downtown Sacramento. Being she has to be there at 5 PM I think we all will take the train down with her and just wait. Too many people trying to go home that time of day to drive there. She has about a month and half before the big event. Should be interesting....

We stopped and picked up chocolate milkshakes for her and the other two on the way home. Figure there was no reason to start anything since my neighbor was coming over to give the boy a much needed haircut. Was nice visiting with her and the boy looks a 100% better.

This weekend I went to work with Mr. V. I sat in the truck while he did some site inspections. I bring a couple of magazines, a book, and my sit & wait knitting project.

I did think this was a neat apartment behind where I was parked. Would be like living in a tree house. I think that would be fun.

The sit & wait knitting project is a baby blanket. It is a self striping yarn and knitting it on an angle I think will make for an interesting look.

I am now off to finish up laundry, make our bed with nice clean sheets now, and then I am sure it will be time to get dinner started again.

No Picture Friday Post...

2007-04-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

I realized the other day that Mr. V and I had (for the first time) forgotten to relive one of the big events in our lives. So, I will share what today is that goes along with that event. First about today, it would be 28 years ago (yes, I am feeling mighty old) that Mr. V asked me to marry him (oh happy days). He had been trying to do it for sometime before April 11th, but, just never seemed right (I could tell each time he tried). Now for the reason for the next couple of weeks delay. We were living in Wichita, Texas, and the weather had been goofy all day long. While sitting together just inside the building we lived in, we noticed the sky had changed big time. I, being from Michigan, knew what was coming. He being from southern California wasn't sure what was coming. The hail started and we went inside to find everyone getting mattresses out into the hallways to sit under. Yes, folks a really really big tornado was on its way. If you would like to see some pictures from the event please follow this link to the National Weather Service. You will notice the date is April 10th, my understanding is because the weather front that caused this storm had started the day before so that is how the count it even though the tornado didn't hit until April 11th. There is even some interesting information on the storm at Wikipedia. The National Weather Service rated it has the 5th deadliest tornado in history. And last there is this photo and article at USA Today. Our area was fine, we were just far enough away for any major damage. Mr. V and I spent time cleaning up in a neighborhood. There was just one house left standing. There were 3 of us on that work detail and we were able to do a lot of clean up for them. Even removing the walls of the neighbors house off theirs. Went many days with no power and was thrilled when it came back. So, this was the first weekend we had off from classes and work details. Mr. V did ask me on Friday evening. And the rest is history as they say. I will tell you right now, best saying yes to any question I have ever done. Hope everyone has a lovely weekend.

Shoe Shopping Thursday..

2007-04-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

Ricky and I spent a good part of the day looking for new shoes for him. It is getting harder finding him shoes since he is now 13 years old and wears a men's size 11. Don't want anything that looks like old guys shoes. He did find two pairs and he is all set now. Took him out to lunch afterwards and had a very nice time with him.

Really haven't done anything else all that interesting today so thought I might post a few pictures from a new quilting magazine, called Quilt.

I will admit that I don't always read everything in the magazines I buy. I really just like the pictures in most and what is written to go with the picture. But, this time there seems to be a lot of interesting things to read. There is an article by Kaffe Fassett called Cityscapes In The Sun: Quilts inspired by colorful buildings & decorative tiles. Has nice pictures and looks like some pretty interesting writing too. Then there is an article about Rosie Lee Tompkins that looks interesting.

One thing on the cover that caught my eye was the mention of a Beatrix Potter Storybook Quilt. I really like pretty much anything to do with Beatrix Potter so felt I should buy this just for that part. I will have to look for the fabric used and see what the colors look like in person. According to the materials needed section the fabric can be found at Quilting Treasures. The collection is called Garden Tales. To prove that I do like Beatrix Potter just look at the my links and you will find one for her.

There are many patterns for all different size projects. There is this cute little table size quilt called Patriot's Star made with fabrics from Windham Fabrics. The collection is called West by L.B. Krueger

Next there is this quilt with a matching pillow. I like the little matching pillow, what a simple and nice idea. The quilt is called Splish Splash with fabrics from Westminster Fibers. The collection is called Rainshine by Felicity Miller.

The pattern on this quilt I found interesting. It is called Flights of Fancy. The fabric is from Camelot Cottons. The collection is called Whimsies by Sue Penn.

Last are two products that I saw in the ads. I had no idea you could make different shaped yo-yo's. I check the web-site for Clover USA, but, there is no product information up on it yet.

And last there was this fabric. Yes, it is called Pairs Cats from Benartex. I couldn't find this on their site yet either. I am sure by next month there will be information on where to find this stuff. I would like to find this to maybe make something sometime for my cat loving mother.

Time to finish cleaning up the kitchen and then watch some TV with the gang. Think I will work on crocheting the blanket for Mr. V since that takes the least amount of thinking. Tomorrow I think we will start on the stump removeal in the front. Will have to do some soaking with water before digging. Am sure all this will be so exciting and fun (HA)...

A Post of WIP's...

2007-04-25T14:38:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a lot of time on the phone with family things, so, the day just seems to go by way faster than I am ready for it to go by. So, today's post will be just a mixture of projects. There are many more, but, figure I would bore you with that many pictures.

The first is a new one from yesterday. With the help of Mr. V last night we got the shrubs (which could have been small trees if you ask me) cut back as far as we could. That means it is now time for Ricky and me to dig out these remains. OH, this is going to take a long time. The ground is clay and the roots are deep. Should be an interesting time digging these outs.

The second project I have been working on is a blanket for Mr. V. I started this late last year and it has been sitting for a few months. As you can see it is a manly blanket being crocheted in camo yarn. It still needs to be longer, so have many more rows to crochet. Now that is getting bigger it is looking more like a camo blanket than it did when I started.

Last for toady's pictures is the cushion cover for Ricky. The goose is all done and the sandpiper is almost done. I would really like to get this done by the weekend, Monday at the latest. But, so far my planning of time has not been working out. Seems like something happens everyday that needs to be taken care of. So I think I need to learn to plan a project with a lot more time to finish it than what I normally think is reasonable. But, on the upside I have been keeping my sewing table clean. I will admit I am very pleased with myself on that one.

Tomorrow I have to take Renee in for some lab work. But, I had told Ricky I would take him out for new shows on Monday. Thought maybe I would change the day, but, he looked so disappointed that I had better keep the date. Guess the boy really was looking forward to some alone time with his mom. Figure I had better enjoy these moments while I can since the time goes by so fast.

Today I did try and fix a few things on this blog. I still have no idea why on some search engines it looks one way and on another it looks different. Guess it will remain one of those mysteries in life.......Hopefully all the links now look right on whatever you are reading this....

Clean-Up Tuesday...

2007-04-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

The afternoon was spent trimming up plants in the front. Tomorrow is a county clean up day. Once a year they come around and pick up junk or yard waste that is large.

Ricky worked on cutting back to the big shrubs that need to come out. At one time they were pretty, but, now they are old and way to big. Having all the green leaves cut off will make it easier to cut down the rest of them.

Was nice practice for the boy. Did matter how well he cut off the branches. And he got to use loppers, clippers, and a saw. So he was very pleased with him self.

Speaking of pleased, I was very happy with myself on the trimming of lower branches on the tree. Did a lot of up and down on the ladder to get those branches off. Ricky and I made a nice big pile of branches to be picked up tomorrow.

Have no pictures of anything creative to show. Took Renee to the doctor because she is getting icky nose bleeds. They made her an appointment with an ENT doctor it a couple of weeks. Even though she is 20 years old, I went with her. She agreed that is nice to have someone to talk with while waiting.

Maybe tomorrow I will have some pictures to post of WIP's. I am trying to finish up those projects that I have started in the past and really should be finished. Usually these projects are big ones that I thought I could do so fast. Ha, I was wrong, they are still unfinished. Off no to get some dinner started and maybe I will get to work on Ricky's cushion tonight.

Dark Saturday....

2007-04-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Looks like it would like to rain today. The temp took a drop and I think we are back into a Spring mode. Ricky is off today to play Laser Tag with his friend Ryan for Ryan's birthday. I am sure all will have a great time.

Yesterday was much nicer out and we were able to do some outside work. I got the four pepper plants planted under the kitchen window. Had two there last year and they did really well. Hopefully these four will do as well.

Also put a Japanese eggplant in the same planter as last years one. It too seemed to like growing there in this pot, so will do it again this year.

I had wanted to start a square foot garden this year, but, the time got away from me. Too many other things going on. I will shot for starting one this Fall and then it will be ready for Spring. It is a pretty nice little system for growing vegetables. I have the original book, but, this year saw that he has redone the whole thing and it is even easier than before.

Ricky cut the grass for me yesterday and that is very helpful now that he can do that. While were doing outside stuff, Rebecca was baking some more items to be made into key chains.

I will close with yet another picture of the climbing rose, because I really really like it. I am now off to the hardware store with Mr. V. We are looking for fence fixing stuff, should exciting......

Is It Thursday Again Already?!?!?!?

2007-04-19T16:02:00.000-07:00

Where is this week going....I did add some more color bands to Ricky's cushion cover today and tonight I can start quilting the thing for him. Hopefully that will be all done by the end of the weekend and he will have his cushion.

While I was at the grocery store I saw the new issue of Creative Home. Had some nice ideas and articles in it.

The picture above is from an article about how to make the mural behind the bench. But, I just really like this bench and the storage it has so that is why I am posting the picture. It is an interesting article about different painting techniques to make the mural.

Here is a pretty dining room from a house full of white and blue things.

There is many times when I wish I had a place for a porch swing. They always look like so much fun.

And there always seems to be a very nice little birdhouse in these magazines....

There is also a small part on Amy Butler. I find her stuff interesting, but, usually too bright for and the prints too large for this household to ever use.

I did enjoy the article about Deane Bowers and her studio. Maybe I liked the article so much because she is self-trained artist and stay at home mom.

And there were some nice pictures of her home.

That is all for today. Right before writing this I did my 2 1/4 miles on the tread-mill and now it is time to get dinner started for the gang......

An Extra Post....

2007-04-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

Have read many little statements about Virginia in others blogs today. I had promised myself that this would be a neutral place for me with nothing to do with world events. I have decided to break my rule for this because it is important. I have not seen any mention of a person that I think should be remembered and thanked. He is Virginia Tech engineering professor Liviu Librescu (click on this link to read his story). Thank you God for protecting him all these years so he could save those young folks for whatever You have planned for them. And thank you to his family for sharing with us......

Just Killing Time...

2007-04-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sitting here waiting for a phone call from my mother. Don't want to run errands until after she calls. Thought she would have called by now, so, I will just keep waiting....

While I am waiting thought I would post some pictures of the rose bush. Told Mr. V I noticed that his bush has some black spot starting on it. Will see if I can find something for that today.

I will admit it is very pretty even though it is on the side of the house where not many see it.

I like the pretty shape of these roses.

The odd thing is that it looks like the bees may have cross pollinated this bush with some other bush somewhere, because, there are red and pink rose this time....

I do think they look pretty floating in a bowl of water on the kitchen table.

Yesterday afternoon I found these drying on my kitchen table. Rebecca had been making up some items that might make nice key chains. If I had a better camera I am sure they would show up better. She made two cakes, a squirrel, mushroom and acorn.

Guess I will close with some pictures of now 17 year old doggy.

Yes, Kandy is now 17 years old and still doesn't like having her picture taken.

I was able to make her tail look pretty for again. As she has gotten older it has gotten bent a little. I figured out how to put a tuff at the tip to make it look straight again. I was very pleased with myself on figuring that one out.

Well, guess that is all I have to say for now. And still no phone call, suppose I will go clean something. I want to get some brown fabric for Ricky's cushion since I decided that it needs a few more colors on it. Maybe I will have some pictures of it post tomorrow if I get the fabric today.....Hope you enjoy a great day....

Sunny, Warm, Friday...

2007-04-13T15:17:00.000-07:00

Guess today is suppose to be our nice day and then tonight back to rain. At least we are not having snow like here and here.

Today I started Ricky's cushion cover. I know it is hard to see in the picture, but, it is actually kind of large. It will be 24 inches by 24 inches when done. I am going to quilt around the birds next. Then put the back on. I made a 14 inch by 14 inch pillow for Rebecca a few years ago and quilted the picture. It came out really nice and she still likes it. Guess it gives the picture a little more texture and makes it more interesting.

I will close with a picture of Mr. Gnome's son that has come to live under the kitchen window. Mr. Gnome won't be lonely any more. Now I will have to get those plants to put there so they will have something to live under. Maybe this weekend, if they are lucky some pepper plants will show up....

Fast Thursday Post...

2007-04-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

I will start with a picture of yesterday evening. You can kind of see that there was a double rainbow looking out our back door. And the main rainbow was very bright. Looked so pretty.

Now onto today's events. I actually sat down and did some sewing! Yes, it finally happen. Started Rebecca's black vest she had been waiting for.

So far it is going together well, even with the darts and shaping. I will have to find a better place to take pictures of it, because it is black and very hard to see. Hopefully tomorrow I will get the lining together. The buttons will have to wait because we never picked any up.

Here is the pattern I am using. It is the main picture of the stripped vest, view B.

That is all for today. Oh, I even fixed the boys black Star Gate long sleeve T-shirt. The hem had come out and he was so happy to have it back. You see it too had been sitting for many months waiting to be fix. I will try to do better from now on......

Sun Is Gone and The Rain Is Back...

2007-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

Has been a rainy day all day long today. My outside table has little yellow pollen puddles on it. Sure hope this washes away more of the pollen.

Didn't really do any school today. Ricky still has a cold. Tried letting him do some Monday and he did a lot of sitting looking at the books, no real work. So, I picked him up something to build yesterday when I was out with Renee getting items she needed for class today.

Working on the double ferries wheel took most of the day. The little motor worked just fine.

The one side has a little bit of a balance problem, but, I think he will have it all worked out later today. He sure was quiet all day while working on it.

So, while he was doing that and Rebecca was working on drawing stuff. I decided it was time to clean up my little sewing spot so I could actually do something there. It turns into a catch-all because I get busy and need somewhere to set. Then it just piles up and soon there is no place to work. It does amaze me how fast and how much stuff I can put there. I did give it a new table cloth so the spot doesn't look plain.

Since there was some table cloth left, decided to cut some for those little shelves in the kitchen. Hopefully they will hang better as time goes by. Oh, the little cats were a gift from Mr. V years ago while we were living in Japan. I think it was for my birthday, has been a very long time now since he bought those. Thought it was time they came out of the cupboard and saw the world again.

Well, maybe tomorrow I will actually sew something now that I can to the machine! I will try very very hard not set stuff there when I am in a hurry (wonder how long that will last).

I see all the birds our out back getting one last meal before bedtime. I suppose that means I should do the dishes and then watch American Idol with Rebecca. It is just one of those things we find fun to watch together. (Sorry about the spacing on this post. Blogger just doesn't want to do what I am telling it to today. Oh, the frustration......)