Older Journal Entries

• Taking some air (12/13/2022) - Tuesday, December 13, 2022 I won’t lie, I had a tough 24 hours yesterday. It was that horrible headache that just wouldn’t go away. The medical people keep pushing Tylenol but I’ve known for a long time that Tylenol doesn’t work for me. I was nauseous this morning but I think that was more from … Continue reading Taking some air →
• A Better Day (12/16/2022) - Friday, December 16, 2022 I was falling into a depression the last couple of days and I needed to give myself a talking to. My plan for today was to get myself into some sort of routine that didn’t involve so many naps. But when I got up at six I had to take a … Continue reading A Better Day →
• Another good day (12/18/2022) - Sunday, December 18, 2022 I have bad days, days that are a bit better and even a few good days thrown into the mix. I never know how my day is going to be but today has been pretty good – so far. I had the last of my injections today – they will start … Continue reading Another good day →
• It’s almost gone (12/22/2022) - Thursday, December 22, 2022 I knew this morning it was just a matter of time. My scalp was very tender. As the day progressed I was losing more and more hair – not in clumps as was suggested would happen, but handfuls were coming out whenever I ran my fingers through my hair. We had … Continue reading It’s almost gone →
• A rough patch (12/28/2022) - Wednesday, December 28, 2022 After the change in medications for my last treatment I had three good days leading up to Christmas. On Boxing Day I came off those meds and I fell fast. Kathryn warned me that might happen. I was very low energy on the 26th, although we managed a short walk and … Continue reading A rough patch →
• A new leaf (1/1/2023) - January 1, 2023 Happy New Year! I made no attempt at chronicling my achievements for 2022. I know there were very few in comparison to what I had planned. Going forward I’m not making any resolutions and will try to take each day as it comes, with whatever that day brings. We put away the … Continue reading A new leaf →
• Catching Up (1/7/2023) - Saturday, January 7, 2023 My first week of the New Year wasn’t great. Not sleeping well, so tired I didn’t even want to read, and such acid reflux that I stopped eating anything except oatmeal, soda crackers, Babybel cheese and chicken broth. When I had my appointment on Thursday the doctor gave me a prescription … Continue reading Catching Up →
• It’s been awhile (1/29/2023) - Sunday, January 29, 2023 After my prolonged stay in hospital it is great to be home. I’m on a lot of medications and it keeps me busy just keeping up with the schedule. Pat put everything into the calendar which makes it so much easier for me. Particularly because over the next couple of days … Continue reading It’s been awhile →
• Updated Treatment Plan (2/1/2023) - Wednesday, February 1, 2023 I had an appointment with my family doctor yesterday morning. All is fine and he had a note in his file saying they weren’t going to do my 4th chemo round but were going to move on to the second series.  Then, late yesterday afternoon, we had a call from my … Continue reading Updated Treatment Plan →
• Onward (2/5/2023) - Sunday, February 5, 2023 Although I’m not yet feeling “normal” I am working hard to get there. Still no appetite no matter what Pat tempts me with. When I feel like I should eat something I’m having an Ensure or a few nuts and maybe some fruit. I do eat an occasional meal. Pat made … Continue reading Onward →
• Update (2/6/2023) - Monday, February 6, 2023 Today’s chemo went well. Only two attempts to find a vein – she opted to put the IV in my finger. Hopefully by next time one of the more central veins will have healed enough to be used again. The sessions this time around are going to be at least four … Continue reading Update →
• It’s a Process (2/7/2023) - Tuesday, February 7, 2023 I’m a mouth breather, and have been for as long as I can remember and to my knowledge I never had any problems associated with it. However, since starting chemo, at night my mouth gets so dry I pretty much have to peel my upper and lower lip away from my … Continue reading It’s a Process →
• It’s been one week (2/12/2023) - Sunday, February 12, 2023 It’s been a week since my chemo treatment and I’ve had some challenges. I’ve experienced just about every side effect the drugs can bring on. With the exception of nausea for which I’m thankful. Mind you I was on the anti-nausea drugs for three days. Before I received the actual chemo … Continue reading It’s been one week →
• Pass or fail? (2/16/2023) - Thursday, February 16, 2023 My sleep apnea test kit came yesterday so before heading to bed last night Pat got all the bits and bobs connected and I attempted to have a “normal” sleep. The equipment wasn’t at all cumbersome but I was certainly aware of it all night. They said they need five hours … Continue reading Pass or fail? →
• A few more days (2/24/2023) - Friday, February 24, 2023 Just a few more days until my next treatment. Although it won’t necessarily be the same as it was the last time, I’m dreading that first week and all the various side effects I went through. I am better prepared this time though; I know more or less what to expect … Continue reading A few more days →
• Good News (3/2/2023) - Thursday, March 2, 2023 Last Saturday around lunchtime I noticed that there was no hot water coming from the bathroom sink. After a quick check at the other sinks with the same results we called the maintenance people. Something inside the tankless unit had sprung a leak and we were going to have to wait … Continue reading Good News →
• Not there yet (3/3/2023) - Friday, March 3, 2023 I haven’t yet recovered from my latest treatment. It seems to me that these side effects are going on longer than they did last time but I may just be forgetting the details. Because of the steroid in the pre-treatment I was awake for a couple of days. I expected that … Continue reading Not there yet →
• Patience (3/7/2023) - Tuesday, March 7, 2023 I need to learn to be patient. I was so frustrated last week at my slow progress to feeling “normal” that I forgot that it takes a full week post-treatment to get back on my feet. Today is just a day over a week since my treatment and I can feel … Continue reading Patience →
• Some good days (3/10/2023) - Friday, March 10, 2023 I’ve made the most of these past few days when I’ve been feeling quite normal. I still have to deal with numb fingers and toes but other than that I’m good. I even had one night where I slept well until 8:30 in the morning – that hasn’t happened for a … Continue reading Some good days →
• Disappointed (3/14/2023) - Tuesday, March 14, 2023 Pat and I hoped to make a day trip across to Texada today but the weather didn’t cooperate. No, it isn’t snowing but it is windy and cold and not suitable for my image of sitting on the deck in the sun. Thursday is supposed to be a better day so … Continue reading Disappointed →
• Some good days (3/19/2023) - Sunday, March 19, 2023 I’ve had several good days so I thought I should catch you up before my treatment day tomorrow. I expect things to get bad for a few days after. I seem to start worrying about the week ahead a few days before my treatment. I hit another milestone on Wednesday. I … Continue reading Some good days →
• Strange … but good! (3/21/2023) - Tuesday, March 21, 2023 I had a long day at the hospital yesterday. My chemo treatment was scheduled for nine but I went a little early because I had some insurance papers that I needed to leave for the doctor’s signature. I knew I wouldn’t see the doctor so I had to explain it all … Continue reading Strange … but good! →
• One Week Done (3/27/2023) - Monday, March 27, 2023 It’s been a week since my treatment and I think I’ve turned the corner. With the exception of a few things, this first week after treatment followed the same course as the previous ones have. I didn’t have the two days of wired energy that I had previously but that was … Continue reading One Week Done →
• I should be keeping track (3/29/2023) - Wednesday, March 29, 2023 When I started my chemo treatments I kept a daily record of how I felt, what had changed and generally everything health related. I took it to all my doctor appointments but no one ever seemed interested. After my stint in the hospital I stopped doing that but I could use … Continue reading I should be keeping track →
• Allergies (3/31/2023) - Friday, March 31, 2023 For the last few mornings I’ve woken up with a headache. For a couple of those days I was able to get up, grab a coffee and the headache went away without any medication. Last night I was up at three with a boomer of a headache so I took an … Continue reading Allergies →
• It’s a date (4/5/2023) - Wednesday, April 5, 2023 We’ve been waiting to hear from the radiology team in Vancouver – not very patiently though so we called them ourselves today. I will go for my planning session on April 19th. It is a short appointment but I see the doctor and have a CT scan. Thankfully there is no … Continue reading It’s a date →
• This seems more normal (4/12/2023) - Wednesday, April 12, 2023 It’s been awhile since I checked in. Not much happens around here – we never go anywhere. Most days I do computer work or some sewing in the morning, in the afternoon I cross stitch, play iPad games, or read (that often leads to a nap), and after supper until bedtime … Continue reading This seems more normal →
• Surprise (4/13/2023) - April 13, 2023 Last fall, after the fence came down, we put up some motion-sensor lights at the front door. The door is seldom used but in the winter when we ordered food it was dark for delivery people. When we are downstairs watching TV in the evenings we can see them come on if … Continue reading Surprise →
• On the mend (4/16/2023) - Sunday, April 16, 2023 I’m following the same path this week as I have with the last few treatments. It seems to me the aches are a bit worse and lasting longer but then I have a short memory so maybe that isn’t the case. I spent almost two days in bed but I’m feeling … Continue reading On the mend →
• In the big city (4/18/2023) - Tuesday, April 18, 2023 We arrived safely in Vancouver this afternoon just in time to check into our accommodation. The building is old but very nice and we have a lot of stained glass in the windows. The room is small but we won’t be spending a lot of time here. The morning didn’t start … Continue reading In the big city →
• Wait, wait, wait (4/19/2023) - Wednesday, April 19, 2023 I had a good sleep last night. There was no street noise, no noise from other guests, and the bed was really comfortable. Breakfast was good – French Toast for me and poached eggs for Pat. We wanted to drop a few things off at the truck before heading to my … Continue reading Wait, wait, wait →
• Week Three (4/23/2023) - Sunday, April 23, 2023 I’m coming up on my third post-treatment week and I’m feeling good. I don’t think I felt as bad this time around, although I did have some bad days. I think having the trip to Vancouver interrupted my “usual” schedule and that may have made a difference. I had my last … Continue reading Week Three →
• An easy decision (4/24/2023) - Monday, April 24, 2023 Finally we’ve had a nice day – no rain, no wind and plenty of sunshine. My plan was to wait until the afternoon when it was the warmest and then get out and get some weeds pulled. I knew I’d be anxious to get my sunflower seeds in the ground but … Continue reading An easy decision →
• In the dirt (4/27/2023) - Thursday, April 27, 2013 The weather has turned (again) and we’ve had a couple of nice days. I got out into the yard on Tuesday and did some weeding in one of the beds. I wanted to get the sunflowers planted because they were predicting rain for the next day. I ran out of steam … Continue reading In the dirt →
• Tempted (5/2/2023) - Tuesday, May 2, 2023 I received news this morning via Facebook that our quilt store is closing. I’m really sorry about it. I noticed a couple of weeks ago that she had a fabric sale going on (25% off) and I was tempted to go have a look. None of my projects needed anything though … Continue reading Tempted →
• Room with a View (5/8/2023) - Monday, May 8, 2023 We had a good trip down to Vancouver yesterday. Rain had been predicted but except for a few sprinkles a couple of times along the way we were fine. Pat maneuvered us around all of the detours created by the BMO Marathon and we were at our accommodation in time for … Continue reading Room with a View →
• Day Two (5/9/2023) - Tuesday, May 9, 2023 It took me awhile this morning to convince Pat that there was no need for him to tag along with me to my treatment. But I had second thoughts when we were having breakfast and he had no problem coming with me. He remarked that he knew I was nervous when … Continue reading Day Two →
• All by myself (5/10/2023) - Wednesday, May 10, 2023 I went off to my appointment today all on my own – and I managed just fine. It is a quick trip and there are more comfortable places for Pat to sit than in the waiting room at the Cancer Clinic. I was there early but only had time to read … Continue reading All by myself →
• A little knowledge (5/11/2023) - Thursday, May 11, 2023 My treatment today wasn’t until the afternoon so I had time this morning to join an online bra and prosthetics workshop. Lots of options and lots of choices provided one can find a shop that caters to mastectomy surgeries. Ideally I would like to go to Kelowna to go to the … Continue reading A little knowledge →
• Week one done (5/12/2023) - Friday, May 12, 2023 My first week of treatments is over. Aside from the nerves at the beginning of the week everything has gone well. I’m not yet suffering from any side effects. I often lay down to read in the afternoon and end up snoozing but I think that is just laziness and the … Continue reading Week one done →
• Did I deserve it? (5/13/2023) - Saturday, May 13, 2023 Breakfast was a bit later today, being the weekend. Good thing too as I didn’t wake up until eight. Pat was already gone but I went downstairs for a cup of coffee before I joined him in the cafeteria. We can get coffee in the cafeteria but it comes out of … Continue reading Did I deserve it? →
• A lazy day (5/15/2023) - Monday, May 15, 2023 I’ve had a lazy day today. We had such a lovely time at Christy’s yesterday. It was hot (37) but their house is air conditioned and when we had lunch at the creek I was able to keep moving my chair into the shade. Both Pat and I came home with … Continue reading A lazy day →
• Halfway there (5/17/2023) - Wednesday, May 17, 2023 I passed the halfway mark in my radiation treatments today. So far it’s going well and other than being tired (or lazy) I don’t have much in the way of side effects. The last two days I’ve only managed half of the 5000 steps I was getting but I’m pleased I’m … Continue reading Halfway there →
• Treats (5/19/2023) - Friday, May 19, 2023 Yesterday was a day lacking in treats so I made up for it today. I had my treatment Thursday morning and my fitting in the afternoon. I was able to walk the six blocks there and back although I did have to stop and rest for a bit both ways. I … Continue reading Treats →
• Such a good weekend (5/22/2023) - Monday, May 22, 2023 We spent another good day with Christy and family on Saturday. For supper we ordered pizza from “Show Me the Pizza”, the place where Dylan works. I rode along with Rick and Taylor to pick it up so had a chance to see Dylan hard at work. On Sunday we went … Continue reading Such a good weekend →
• Busy Day (5/24/2023) - Wednesday, May 24, 2023 I had a very quiet day yesterday. I may have been a bit depressed. I fought back tears all through my treatment and then spent the rest of the day laying on the bed and reading. I gave myself a stern “talking to” this morning and it seems to have worked … Continue reading Busy Day →
• The good, the bad and the ugly (5/27/2023) - Saturday, May 27, 2023 The good … We had a nice dinner in Yaletown on Thursday night, followed by a short walk around False Creek. Pat found a singer/songwriter concert at the Roundhouse so we ended up there. We took the Skytrain down and back and it was much more relaxing for Pat than driving. … Continue reading The good, the bad and the ugly →
• Packed and loaded (5/28/2023) - Sunday, May 28, 2023 We’re going home tomorrow and I’m more than ready!
• It’s good to be home (5/30/2023) - Tuesday, May 30, 2023 It is so good to be home, even if I’m not able to accomplish everything I’d like to get done in one day. It took me until this afternoon to unpack; normally that would be done in the first hour of arriving. As expected, the yard is full of weeds but … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• Out and about (5/31/2023) - Wednesday, May 31, 2023 My appointment this morning was short – I was in and out within 15 minutes. I apparently have mild sleep apnea so my next step is to contact the company in Comox to see what comes next. I received a letter from them asking me to contact them for Trial CPAP … Continue reading Out and about →
• It’s official (6/2/2023) - Friday, June 2, 2023 Pat has been telling me for a week or more that my hair has started to grow back. When he first brought up the subject a month ago I said I wouldn’t believe it until I could see eyelashes. We’ll today, I can see that my eyelashes are starting to come … Continue reading It’s official →
• Decisions (6/5/2023) - Monday, June 5, 2023 I had a nap late yesterday afternoon so I was still awake at two this morning. I think, if I can manage it, I’m going to stop napping in the afternoon. I’d rather drag myself off to bed early in the evening than be awake half the night. I really intended … Continue reading Decisions →
• Finally (6/6/2023) - Tuesday, June 6, 2023 I finally got some sewing done today. Nothing completed but I have a Stash Buster block finished as well as a postage stamp block almost done. I’d keep at it but my back is complaining so I’ll quit for the day. We didn’t get out for a walk but I was … Continue reading Finally →
• Keeping at it (6/8/2023) - Thursday, June 7, 2023 I had two appointments yesterday and when we got home from the second one I said to Pat, “Two down and three more to go”. One of the three will be a phone conversation with the radiologist, one for my Covid Booster, and one with my Oncology doctor in Powell River. … Continue reading Keeping at it →
• It’s a mystery (6/9/2023) - Friday, June 9, 2023 I was out in the yard first thing getting the last of yesterday’s bed weeded. I heard a few drops of rain around six this morning and I wanted to get it done before the rain moved in. I worked through a few sprinkles while I weeded but it wasn’t until … Continue reading It’s a mystery →
• Finishing up (6/12/2023) - Monday, June 12, 2023 I finished a couple of cards this morning that I probably should have had done yesterday. I’ll have to get them wrapped and ready for the mail tomorrow. I have a lot more cards that need to be done but I need to clean my machine before I tackle anything new. … Continue reading Finishing up →
• Checking in (6/15/2023) - Thursday, June 15, 2023 I haven’t been writing daily posts as, most days, I don’t do anything worth writing about. I do some computer work in the morning and, if there is time, a bit of sewing. No projects completed or even nearing completion but I plug away at cards and a few of my … Continue reading Checking in →
• A good day (6/17/2023) - Saturday, June 17, 2023 The forecast was for rain this afternoon so while Pat did an open mic this morning I headed out to walk up to the dollar store. I needed a walk and I hate walking without a purpose so I decided I needed some wrapping paper. On my way there I came … Continue reading A good day →
• Another milestone (6/18/2023) - Sunday, June 18, 2023 I took Pat out for lunch today and on the way home we stopped at the sea walk. I wanted to get my steps in – I’ve increased my goal to 3500 steps a day. I decided to try walking without my sticks and I made it all the way. I … Continue reading Another milestone →
• Boxing Day (6/21/2023) - Wednesday, June 21, 2023 I’m having trouble settling into anything so I’ll get this journal entry off early. I was puttering while I waited for a phone appointment and now that it is over I’m tired of puttering but not really sure what I want to do. Part of my puttering involved cleaning up in … Continue reading Boxing Day →
• It’s like riding a bike (6/24/2023) - Saturday, June 24, 2023 I missed a day of walking because I had a bad night the night before. In hindsight we think I might have had too much sun on one of my afternoon walks. I always have sunscreen on but that particular day I didn’t have my hat; it was windy and much … Continue reading It’s like riding a bike →
• Round trip (6/26/2023) - Monday, June 26, 2023 Rather than walking the sea walk today I made a round trip to the library, with a stop at the post office on my way back. It’s the first time I’ve done the round trip; it was nice to get my steps in as well as do a couple of errands. … Continue reading Round trip →
• Ahh … (6/28/2023) - Wednesday, June 28, 2023 We got over to Texada on the late afternoon ferry yesterday. We haven’t been here since February (?) so before we unpacked we did some vacuuming and general cleaning. We unpacked the food but I didn’t unpack anything in my space. When we were having coffee on the deck this morning … Continue reading Ahh … →
• It’s always a good day … (7/15/2023) - Saturday, July 15, 2023 It’s always a good day when I get to use my glue gun. But before I get to that I’ll do a little catching up. I’ve had a wonderfully relaxing time on Texada but I’m back in Powell River for a week. Pat has some recording sessions booked for early next … Continue reading It’s always a good day … →
• Back at the bee (7/18/2023) - Tuesday, July 18, 2023 I had forgotten how much there was to do to get ready to go sewing, and how long it takes to do all those things. I usually have four bobbins pre-wound but yesterday while I sewed I ran out of my last one. So first thing this morning, while I had … Continue reading Back at the bee →
• The yard (7/19/2023) - Wednesday, July 19, 2023 I learned today that my limit is for yard work is an hour – at least for now. I got out early as I wanted to get the daisies deadheaded. Once I was out there I pulled a few weeds on my way across to the daisies. It seems to me … Continue reading The yard →
• Limits (7/21/2023) - Friday, July 21, 2023 I’m finally accepting that there are limits to how much I can do in a day. I stitched with Stacia and Deloise yesterday – we checked in with each other twice during the day, the last time was at three my time. Of course they were both done their projects and … Continue reading Limits →
• Done In! (7/24/2023) - Monday, July 24, 2023 “Let’s do a short walk” Pat said yesterday. After two hours on one of the most challenging walks I’ve been on in ages (and I don’t mean just since my treatments) we were finally home. We had seen the trailhead for the Eagle Cove Trail many times as we made our … Continue reading Done In! →
• Every other day (7/27/2023) - Thursday, July 27, 2023 I think I have found my balance – I can do things one day but the next day I have to do very little or not do anything at all. We went for that long hike on Texada and I was so tired the next day I was useless. I took … Continue reading Every other day →
• A good couple of days (7/30/2023) - Sunday, July 30, 2023 I’ve had a good couple of days and I’m learning to balance activities with naps. We hadn’t been for a walk for quite awhile so Friday morning after both Pat and I finished some video calls we headed out to the seawalk. The walking was so much easier than some of … Continue reading A good couple of days →
• Today’s Pickings (8/1/2023) - Tuesday, August 1, 2023 Here’s what I picked from the garden this morning, along with a few strawberries that I ate as I plucked them. My sunflower is in bloom and the bees seem to be happy with it. Pat has harvested a few peppers and we’ve picked one fig. There are at least three … Continue reading Today’s Pickings →
• Treat at the end of the trail (8/2/2023) - Wednesday, August 2, 2023 It was a hard sell but I managed to get myself out for a walk this morning. It was cooler and I walked before I did any watering. And, lucky me, by the time I got home it was sprinkling rain so I won’t need to water much today. The local … Continue reading Treat at the end of the trail →
• Nothing to write about (8/8/2023) - Tuesday, August 8, 2023 I haven’t posted anything for awhile but there really isn’t anything to write about. My days are quite boring. I spend a bit of time in my sewing room, a bit of time hand stitching, a bit of time in the yard, a bit of time reading, and very little time … Continue reading Nothing to write about →
• On the move again (8/12/2023) - Saturday, August 12, 2023 We’ll be heading over to Texada tomorrow morning for a few days; we’ll be back late in the day Wednesday. I have a sewing date with Stacia and Deloise on Thursday and Pat has an appointment at the lab. We had a lovely day with Peggy (Elliott) and Bill. We made … Continue reading On the move again →
• Happy Birthday Tracie (8/15/2023) - August 15, 2023 The pickings are rather slim in my birthday card bin but this one turned out quite well. The balls in the bowl make me think of summer fruit – maybe a lemon, some strawberries and limes (if you really use your imagination)!
• Catching up (8/18/2023) - Friday, August 18, 2023 I had a good few days on Texada. I accomplished a lot; I finished a cross stitch project and the bonus chicken project as well as putting together a quilt top. Along with some reading and a few cross words it was a pretty relaxing time. We were really looking forward … Continue reading Catching up →
• Giving up (8/20/2023) - Sunday, August 20, 2023 I’ve been working on my Anna project for a long time. I managed to finish the centre and, although it wasn’t great, I thought it might be okay to move on to the borders. I got three of the four borders on when I realized it would be a waste of … Continue reading Giving up →
• I’m back (9/8/2023) - Friday, September 8, 2023 It’s been almost three weeks since I wrote anything. To be honest I had almost decided to abandon the blog entirely. One of the main reasons for starting my Journal was to help with my mental health. If I’m busy doing things and seeing people I don’t have time to be … Continue reading I’m back →
• Mixed up days … again! (9/9/2023) - Saturday, September 9, 2023 Usually by the time Friday rolls around my mind convinces me it is Saturday. Today really is Saturday but my mind is certain it is Friday. All my days are pretty lazy but often they are even lazier on the weekend. I’ve had a relatively busy day today so perhaps that’s … Continue reading Mixed up days … again! →
• One last night (9/10/2023) - Sunday, September 10, 2023 Sunday is my day to clear my desk of paperwork and there was a lot to do today. I thought I was making great progress until I realized I’d moved on to clearing the rest of the room before I had gone through and dealt with all my e-mail. I had … Continue reading One last night →
• I’m set (9/11/2023) - Monday, September 11, 2023 I had my CPAP appointment this morning and I had Pat come along as I was afraid I wouldn’t understand how to operate the machine. The technician was really good and before we even talked about a machine she went through the results of the test I had done in February. … Continue reading I’m set →
• Disappointed (9/12/2023) - Tuesday, September 12, 2023 I was a little disappointed that I didn’t have the best sleep of my life with my new CPAP machine. After a few hours of sleep I got up and made some adjustments to the mask and was more comfortable for the rest of the night. I was still awake every … Continue reading Disappointed →
• A pressing matter (9/13/2023) - September 13, 2023 I slept better last night. My light was out by 9:30 last night and I didn’t get up until 6:30 this morning but I was still woke up every few hours. I wasn’t bothered by the mask at all and maybe my movement is what is causing me to wake up. I … Continue reading A pressing matter →
• Still working (9/14/2023) - Thursday, September 14, 2023 The day is gone and it is time to quit working. I spent the morning sorting through the tasks that the Hall accountant asked me to do. I sent her the info before noon and I haven’t heard back from her so I’m hoping all is well. I made myself a … Continue reading Still working →
• A few good hours (9/15/2023) - Friday, September 15, 2023 I feel like I had a really good sleep last night – for the last three hours anyway. I was awake my usual times during the night but at five this morning I got up to the bathroom and went back to bed and slept really well until eight. I’ve made … Continue reading A few good hours →
• Productive Procrastination (9/16/2023) - Saturday, September 16 What a wonderful expression! I didn’t come up with it myself – it came from a conversation Gail and I had yesterday. As soon as I heard it I knew that was what I was going to do today. My sewing room is a disaster and there is no way I can … Continue reading Productive Procrastination →
• Terry Fox Walk (9/17/2023) - Sunday, September 17, 2023 I hadn’t given much though to the Terry Fox Walk/Run until a sign went up across the street at City Hall. Although I knew I wouldn’t be up to the 10K that I usually do I thought I could at least manage the 2K. Parking is always an issue at the … Continue reading Terry Fox Walk →
• Mystery Solved (9/18/2023) - Monday, September 18, 2023 I know who brought me the flowers. It was the President of the Cranberry Hall board as a thank you for the work I have been doing. I was happy that we got an all-clear message from the accountant today. When Annabelle came by to pick up the files I was … Continue reading Mystery Solved →
• Divesting (9/19/2023) - Tuesday, September 19, 2023 I mentioned to Pat that I had been clearing one thing a day from the closet – either putting something away in its proper place (mostly hanging up clothes) or setting something aside for sale or for the thrift shops. Pat got into the whole idea right away and did a … Continue reading Divesting →
• Missing … but with a good excuse (9/24/2023) - Sunday, September 24, 2023 I’ve not posted for a few days but I have a really good excuse. My daughters surprised me with a visit for my birthday. I could not believe what I was seeing when I opened the door and saw them standing on the doorstep. Pat, of course, knew for months that … Continue reading Missing … but with a good excuse →
• Wasted day (9/25/2023) - Monday, September 25, 2023 I’ve been using an oxygen monitor for the past two nights and I had to send it back to the company today. I was up early to get it packaged up and the courier booked. We live on a corner so our actual address points you to the front door but … Continue reading Wasted day →
• Happy Birthday Laurie (9/26/2023) - September 26, 2023 This is one of my favourite cards from the Splendid Sampler series. I have passed the books along to someone else but I kept a copy of this pattern. I expect Laurie will be doing a bit of juggling as they settle into their new home.
• I warned you (9/26/2023) - Tuesday, September 26, 2023 My days are falling into quite a routine. I worked upstairs this morning and am pretty much finished the tidying. I got the last of my paper shredding done and I cleaned off my sewing table. I set up my sewing machine so I’ll be ready for Friday’s session with Stacia … Continue reading I warned you →
• A few stitches (9/27/2023) - Wednesday, September 27, 2023 I finished as much tidying as I’m going to do upstairs this morning so I worked on my Pixie Lane cross stitch. Just a few back stitches to do and it will be done. I went out to Gail’s after lunch for a visit and some sewing. Neither of us got … Continue reading A few stitches →
• Going out (9/28/2023) - Thursday, September 28, 2023 I didn’t sleep very well last night. I know it wasn’t caused by an over-stimulated afternoon sewing session yesterday with Gail. We chatted, then I sewed a bit, then we stopped for coffee, I sewed a few more seams and then I was done. I was home by four. I don’t … Continue reading Going out →
• Happy Birthday Roberta (9/30/2023) - September 30, 2023 I had fun quilting this card. It isn’t often that I do anything that requires different thread colours but there are four of them on this card. I wasn’t sure the term flower child really related to Roberta but a quick Google search came up with this, which I do think is … Continue reading Happy Birthday Roberta →
• Unsettled (9/30/2023) - Saturday, September 30, 2023 I had a frustrating day of sewing yesterday. The morning went well; this is my second attempt at the Anna pattern. After a lunch break I carried on thinking I’d be well on my way to a finish by the end of the day. That was not to be though as … Continue reading Unsettled →
• Quiet day (10/6/2023) - Friday, October 6, 2023 I’m having a quiet day today; I stayed in my pyjamas until ten this morning. I needed to book my flu shot so I came upstairs to do that and did a bit of computer work. I wrapped a package to send to Kathryn – jam that she wasn’t able to … Continue reading Quiet day →
• Getting ready (10/7/2023) - Saturday, October 7, 2023 I spent some time this morning getting ready for our trip over to Texada. I needed to sort out what projects I was going to take with me. I had already set aside my chickens, my new baubles project, as well as another bin of various unfinished cross stitch projects. I’ve … Continue reading Getting ready →
• Home again (10/12/2023) - Thursday, October 12, 2023 We came home today on the noon ferry. Pat finished the work for his new album and I ran out of anything interesting to do. I took some Christmas cross stitch across, as well as my latest Baubles project. My needle broke when I was about halfway through the Christmas project. … Continue reading Home again →
• Boosted and vaccinated (10/13/2023) - Friday, October 13, 2023 I had time this morning to put Anna’s centre star together. It doesn’t lay as flat as I would have liked; I currently have it pinned down and I’ll give it a good press and hope it improves. Between sewing sessions I’ve done four loads of laundry and three loads of … Continue reading Boosted and vaccinated →
• Hands Across the Water (10/14/2023) - Saturday, October 14, 2023 In 2019 our Guild was set to host the annual Hands Across the Water event where Guilds from the Island and the Peninsula are invited for lunch, visiting, shopping and just a lot of fun. Due to Covid we weren’t able to host in 2019 so we invited everyone to join … Continue reading Hands Across the Water →
• Finally (10/15/2023) - Sunday, October 15, 2023 Anna was ready for borders this morning so that’s what I did after I took care of some computer work. My math wasn’t “on” and the borders aren’t going to be exactly what is called for but then there isn’t much about Anna that follows the pattern in the book. I’ve … Continue reading Finally →
• Prep work (10/16/2023) - Monday, October 16, 2023 I spent my morning working on Anna (again)! I’m happy to say she is all quilted and I have the binding attached to one side. I’m having coffee with a sewing friend on Wednesday so I’ll do the hand stitching while we chat. I’m planning on going to sewing tomorrow and … Continue reading Prep work →
• Tough block (10/17/2023) - Tuesday, October 17, 2023 Remember those three blocks I cut out yesterday? Remember I said I didn’t think I’d get all three done? I hate to admit that I only completed one of them. I’m not sure if the block was complicated or if I’ve just lost “it”. The pattern called for some half square … Continue reading Tough block →
• Testing my limits (10/21/2023) - Saturday, October 21, 2023 I’ve had a busy week. Not quite as busy as “in the old days” but busier than I’ve been for quite awhile. I admit I pushed myself but I really wanted to see if I was capable of doing, if not all, most of it. On Monday I had a medical … Continue reading Testing my limits →
• It’s been a good day (10/22/2023) - Sunday, October 22, 2023 Pat’s show last night was a great success. The Hall was practically full, the sound was good and everyone seemed to enjoy the presentations. There was a real mixture of folks – friends, people from Pat’s writing groups, people from our Home Routes shows, and some folks we didn’t recognize.  My … Continue reading It’s been a good day →
• Around the yard (10/23/2023) - Monday, October 23, 2023 I poked my head outside yesterday and our dahlia plant (from Elizabeth) was bursting with blooms. Every time I cut them I expect it to be the last of the blossoms but I think today may truly be the last ones. I have five big clippings sitting on my counter and … Continue reading Around the yard →
• A better day (10/25/2023) - Wednesday, October 24, 2023 I didn’t intend to go to the Guild sewing yesterday as my plan was to have a quiet day at home working on my cross stitching. I puttered around most of the morning doing some cleaning, some laundry and more organization in my sewing room. I settled in after lunch with … Continue reading A better day →
• Back on track (10/27/2023) - Friday, October 27, 2023 Yesterday morning I finally got my cross stitching sorted out. I have a colour print out of the pattern, I have a black and white copy of the pattern to mark up as I move through the rows, I have a bookmark to keep my eye focused on the right row … Continue reading Back on track →
• Moving along (10/28/2023) - Saturday, October 28, 2023 I’m quilting again today. I didn’t make the blocks for this quilt but I put the blocks together, sandwiched the top and now I’m quilting it. The blocks were hand pieced by someone who gave them to the Guild. When they were offered to the Guild at a meeting at least … Continue reading Moving along →
• So many choices (10/30/2023) - Monday, October 30, 2023 One of the hardest things about writing my Journal is coming up with a catchy (or not-so-catchy) title. All through the day I’m thinking of things I might write about and titles that come to mind. Today there were an abundance of ideas for titles. I Should Have Given Up I … Continue reading So many choices →
• Happy Hallowe’en (10/31/2023) - Tuesday, October 31, 2023 I intended to go sewing with the Guild today but I spent so much time downstairs yesterday listening to music I didn’t get very far on my quilting. I really want to get this quilted and bound before the Texada retreat so I decided my time was better spent at home … Continue reading Happy Hallowe’en →
• I felt a little guilty (11/3/2023) - Friday, November 3, 2023 We had a good trip over to the Island on Wednesday and then back home on Thursday. We got our Costco shopping done before we met Peggy and Bill for lunch. We were able to check into the hotel early so I had a chance to nap in the afternoon. Had … Continue reading I felt a little guilty →
• What did you do with your extra hour? (11/5/2023) - Sunday, November 5, 2023 Signed up for another stitch-along Downloaded a couple of Christmassy projects Cleared my desktop Prepared for the Book Circle that starts tomorrow night Started collecting projects for the Texada Retreat Obviously I didn’t do all of that in an hour but it seemed like an exceptionally long morning so I got … Continue reading What did you do with your extra hour? →
• Getting ready (11/6/2023) - Monday, November 6, 2023 I had to get serious today about getting projects sorted out for the Texada Retreat. I did a bit of work yesterday but I got distracted by a number of things and then spent most of the afternoon working on some appliqué which definitely won’t be going with me. I’d love … Continue reading Getting ready →
• I’m not sure how I’ll manage (11/7/2023) - Tuesday, November 7, 2023 I was off to the Guild bee this morning. I didn’t take my machine but had a bunch of hand work to do – cutting appliqué pieces and cutting squares of fabric for a couple of projects I’m taking to Texada with me. I thought I had everything I needed but … Continue reading I’m not sure how I’ll manage →
• Almost ready (11/8/2023) - Wednesday, November 8, 2023 I think I have everything sorted out and packed for the Texada Retreat. I could spend a week on retreat and probably still not get everything done that I’ve packed but if it doesn’t get done on Texada it will be ready-to-go when I get back home. I found another hand … Continue reading Almost ready →
• Tired but happy (11/13/2023) - Monday, November 13, 2023 I had a wonderful weekend of sewing but I’m worn right out. I’m just up from a two-hour nap and I could have stayed there for a lot longer. The ride across to Texada was a bit rough on Thursday afternoon but all was well at the studio. By well I … Continue reading Tired but happy →
• The view (11/15/2023) - Wednesday, November 15, 2023 There was a lot of noise going on across the street early this morning. We could see the tree company working inside one of the trees. We speculated on whether dead branches were coming off or if the tree was coming down. By lunch the three huge evergreens were gone and … Continue reading The view →
• Two free afternoons (11/18/2023) - Saturday, November 18, 2023 I had a lovely two days of sewing with Stacia and Deloise. I finished our monthly project on Thursday and still had time to start sorting through my Christmas fabric bin. I’m pretty sure it had never been cleaned out. There were bags of strips, bags of squares in all sizes … Continue reading Two free afternoons →
• Chickens (11/19/2023) - Sunday, November 19, 2023 I spent the morning in my sewing room putting the binding on my Remembrance Day runner. It is ready to take to the Guild on Tuesday for hand stitching. I also have borders pinned on a couple of Community quilts that I’ll attach on Tuesday as well. I had a bit … Continue reading Chickens →
• Change of plans (11/20/2023) - Monday, November 20, 2023 Yesterday I carefully planned what I would take to the Guild sewing tomorrow. But somewhere in the middle of the night I changed that plan. My new plan meant that I would be hand stitching and wouldn’t need my machine, making packing up much easier. I started the morning by wrapping … Continue reading Change of plans →
• My new reputation? (11/22/2023) - Wednesday, November 22, 2023 When I had my CPAP appointment on Monday I made a doctor’s appointment for first thing this morning. I was in the examination room before the doctor was even in the clinic; I didn’t wait long though. As usual he wanted to know what I was there for. When I told … Continue reading My new reputation? →
• What a mess (11/24/2023) - Friday, November 24, 2023 I can still get around in my sewing space but just barely. And I can get into the room across the hall but, again, barely. My cutting table is littered with Christmas fabric. A lot of it has been sitting there since I cleared out my Christmas bin; I’m gradually using … Continue reading What a mess →
• Progress? (11/27/2023) - Monday, November 27, 2023 I only lasted a day and a half at the Guild’s Community Quilts weekend. On the plus side though, except for borders, I finished the project I took to work on. It was a totally scrappy pattern and, to be honest, it would have been nicer if the fabrics hadn’t been … Continue reading Progress? →
• Back to the drawing board (11/28/2023) - Tuesday, November 28, 2023 I took another look at my Christmas card list and realized I didn’t need as many more cards as I thought. I got started on the pattern that I took to Texada; I’m glad I decided to do a prototype rather than start a production line. I’ve made the card before … Continue reading Back to the drawing board →
• Checking it twice (11/29/2023) - Wednesday, November 29, 2023 I was busy sewing binding on a couple of cards this morning when it dawned on me that I should double check my card list. When I did I realized I had missed some very important people. That led me down the rabbit hole to find another pattern to use for … Continue reading Checking it twice →
• A lazy afternoon (12/2/2023) - Saturday, December 2, 2023 I have a lazy afternoon ahead of me. I have three items to hand stitch the bindings on and buttons to sew on a few other items. Those will be the last of my cards for this year and I can start sending them out next week, provided I can find … Continue reading A lazy afternoon →
• Trial and error (12/4/2023) - Monday, December 4, 2023 I needed to go out to the post office this morning so I went early in order to avoid the rush and the rain. It was only raining a bit when I left but I had about a ten minute wait at the post office. By the time I got home … Continue reading Trial and error →
• Plans (12/5/2023) - Tuesday, December 5, 2023 In the middle of the night I had an OMG moment when I realized I didn’t have any packages wrapped for the mail. Not really a problem as I could wrap them in the morning and drop them off when I stopped in at the Guild. I came upstairs to my … Continue reading Plans →
• Skipped a day and now I’m behind (12/7/2023) - Thursday, December 7, 2023 After pushing myself to get everything in the mail yesterday Pat convinced me I should take the rest of the day for R&R. It didn’t take much convincing. So after my appointment and post office trip in the morning I decided to start tackling some of the clean up required before … Continue reading Skipped a day and now I’m behind →
• A tough job (12/10/2023) - Sunday, December 10, 2023 It was a tough job but one that needed to be done. With all my packages ready for the mail, and most of them already send and/or delivered, it was time to start the cleanup in my sewing area. My cutting table was littered with bits of fabric (not only Christmas … Continue reading A tough job →
• Sewing day (12/12/2023) - Tuesday, December 12, 2023 I made it to the Guild’s sewing day today. I didn’t take a machine as I had some reverse stitching to do on a quilt top and for the three seams that needed to be re-sewn it didn’t seem worth it. I didn’t have anything else on the go (well nothing … Continue reading Sewing day →
• It’s a start (12/13/2023) - Wednesday, December, 2023 I spent the morning in my sewing room. What a treat to work in a clean space. I’ve left Christmas behind in that room and moved on to January birthdays. I have one card done and ready for hand stitching while I have coffee with Gail tomorrow. It will be a shorter … Continue reading It’s a start →
• It’s suddenly brighter (12/17/2023) - Sunday, December 17, 2023 A couple of days ago I was noticing how dark it was in the sewing room and how much I was looking forward to longer days. When I had to move a light over to my sewing table so that I could see better I thought to look up and noticed … Continue reading It’s suddenly brighter →
• I’m glad that’s over (12/19/2023) - Tuesday, December 19, 2023 I’m not sure why I was dreading today’s appointment with the Oncology clinic. I’ve been noticing more and more aches and pains and worried it might be something. The doctor heard all my concerns and gave me credible answers to most of them. Healing takes a lot longer than I expected … Continue reading I’m glad that’s over →
• It isn’t Christmas until the mouse sings! (12/22/2023) - December 22, 2023 I found my Christmas mouse the day after we put up the tree. The only time I heard it sing was when I took it out of the shed and brought it upstairs. I changed its position this year thinking it would get more sun but until today it had been quiet … Continue reading It isn’t Christmas until the mouse sings! →
• A long walk (12/23/2023) - Saturday, December 23, 2023 Pat went out to get the last of the groceries early this morning. He needed to pick up a prescription but the pharmacy didn’t open until ten so I said when I walked to the library I’d stop in and pick it up. I walked pretty much from one end of … Continue reading A long walk →
• Are you ever really done? (12/24/2023) - Sunday, December 24, 2023 I think we’ve been to the grocery store at least three times thinking it was our last trip. Pat was there again this morning for cranberry sauce for the turkey and chutney for the tourtiere! By this afternoon it won’t matter what we’ve forgotten it will be too late. I really … Continue reading Are you ever really done? →
• Reconciliation (12/31/2023) - Sunday, December 31, 2023 I didn’t make any resolutions for this year so there was no way I would miss my marks. Smart move on my part! I’m glad to see that I wasn’t entirely idle all year. Books 35 books read. That surpasses the goal I set out in Goodreads. Needlework/Knit/Crochet 8 projects finished … Continue reading Reconciliation →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2024) - January 1, 2024 I made no resolutions last year and it turned out okay, and there was nothing to feel guilty about at the end of the year. I spent some time in the last days of 2023 to inventory most, not all, of the projects that I really would like to get done. Some … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• While we were away (1/4/2024) - Thursday, January 4, 2024 Look what happened while we were away! The bulbs are up in two more of the containers, not counting the new garlic planting.
• It’s going well (1/6/2024) - Saturday, January 6, 2024 I decided I would devote most of the weekend to quilting. I started quilting this Community Quilt before we went to Texada. I left everything set up on my machine so I wouldn’t move on to anything else before it was done. I didn’t put the top together but I brought … Continue reading It’s going well →
• Not really a resolution (1/7/2024) - Sunday, January 7, 2024 Before Christmas I was looking through the recipe drawer for my Tourtiere recipe – what a mess that drawer was. So I pulled out all the printed sheets and decided it was time to organize them into a binder. Many of the sheets were from Mum’s recipe book and several were … Continue reading Not really a resolution →
• Where does the day go? (1/9/2024) - Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Yesterday afternoon I packed my bags to get ready for sewing today. I didn’t load everything downstairs though because I said if it snowed I wasn’t going to go. It wasn’t snowing but I decided when I got up that I was going to stay home, thinking I’d get more done … Continue reading Where does the day go? →
• Busy Day (1/10/2024) - Wednesday, January 10, 2024 It has been a whirlwind day but at least a few things were accomplished. The quilting work I was doing this morning went well. My test project needed a bit of attention and I’ll finish the hand stitching on it tonight. One down, two to go. I managed to get the … Continue reading Busy Day →
• It’s a good tired (1/13/2024) - Saturday, January 13, 2024 I had a very productive two days of sewing with Stacia and Deloise. I admit my pattern was a relatively easy one but getting it done and moving on in one day was a first for me. When Catherine was done I moved on to the next bonus block for the … Continue reading It’s a good tired →
• Near finishes (1/14/2024) - Sunday, January 14, 2024 I’ve made progress on projects but I don’t have anything actually done today. I finished the quilting on the donation quilt shortly after lunch. I trimmed the edges and prepped the binding. I have enough binding to hang myself; I hope there is enough to go around the quilt. I’ll get … Continue reading Near finishes →
• It’s been an odd day (1/15/2024) - Monday, January 15, 2024 I was barely up in time to sign on to our cousins’ chat. A cup of coffee was all I managed after dressing and combing what little hair I have. When the call was over I needed to get a move on to get my parcel ready for today’s mail. I … Continue reading It’s been an odd day →
• Reading Day (1/17/2024) - Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Since my pile of library books is growing – yes, I picked up another one yesterday – I decided on the weekend that this would be a reading week. I had time to read a bit yesterday afternoon but today is the first day that I have intentionally sat down for … Continue reading Reading Day →
• Solomon’s Temple (1/19/2024) - Friday, January 19, 2024 I finished my Alias Grace block today – Solomon’s Temple. All I had to go on was a picture so it was a struggle to get it done. Please note I said done, not right. I did my best to do the math but when that didn’t work I added a … Continue reading Solomon’s Temple →
• Back to the drawing board (1/20/2024) - Saturday, January 20, 2024 I decided last night that I really couldn’t add the Solomon’s Temple block as it was to a quilt. I would always see the mistake and I would hate the quilt for only that reason. So I got out paper, pencil and scissors today and I’ve been re-sketching the pattern. I’m … Continue reading Back to the drawing board →
• Does this put me ahead? (1/22/2024) - Monday, January 22, 2024 I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoons last week as I concentrated on reading. I made good progress on my pile of books – two finished and returned to the library but another one picked up today. It is thick and I was hoping it was a large print book but I don’t … Continue reading Does this put me ahead? →
• Before & After (1/23/2024) - January 23, 2024 It’s been over a year since I had my hair cut. It’s a bit longer than the buzz cut I had last time!
• Clean, clean, clean (1/26/2024) - Friday, January 26, 2024 I cleaned all morning yesterday. My focus was the kitchen but that extended into the living room and the hallway. I pulled out things from the wall and, on my hands and knees, got into the corners. The vacuum is hard on my back but so is sweeping; between the two … Continue reading Clean, clean, clean →
• It’s time (2/1/2024) - Thursday, February 1, 2024 I’ve been back from my sewing retreat for a couple of days but I’m still not quite recovered. Even though I paced myself over the four days I was still exhausted at the end of it. I had plans to go for my usual afternoon coffee and stitching but after sorting … Continue reading It’s time →
• Choices (2/2/2024) - Friday, February 2, 2024 I like that every day when I get up I have choices about what I’ll do with the day ahead. I know that many don’t have this opportunity. Some days there are things I tell myself I “have” to do but only occasionally is it something that I really have to … Continue reading Choices →
• Calculations (2/5/2024) - Monday, February 5, 2024 I have some things on the go that need to be done by a certain time. They aren’t necessarily a hard and fast deadline but there is some urgency to getting them done. I just started my next book from the library and it is due back on the 16th. That … Continue reading Calculations →
• Now I find it (2/6/2024) - Tuesday, February 6, 2023 I was off to the Guild this morning and didn’t come upstairs to my desk. But when I got to it this afternoon the first thing I did was turn over my Quilters’ Block-a-Day calendar. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Do you recall the Alias Grace block I had … Continue reading Now I find it →
• Looking forward (2/7/2024) - Wednesday, February 7, 2024 It seems every day this week I’ve been working a day ahead. On Monday I was getting ready for Tuesday’s sewing. On Tuesday I was getting ready for today’s session of coffee with Gail. This morning I was getting ready for two days of sewing with Stacia and Deloise. But what … Continue reading Looking forward →
• Aah … (2/15/2024) - Thursday, February 24, 2024 I’m enjoying my week at the studio. The sun has shone almost every day but it is still on the cool side. We got out and walked the nature trail one day and we went out for lunch on Valentine’s Day – there are no restaurants open in the evenings here. … Continue reading Aah … →
• Happy Family Day (2/19/2024) - Monday, February 19, 2024 It’s a holiday today but since I’ve retired long weekends don’t mean the same as they once did. That being said, I’m having a rather slow day and not really getting a lot done. We got home just after lunch yesterday and for the rest of the day I pretended I … Continue reading Happy Family Day →
• Where do the days go? (2/24/2024) - Saturday, February 24, 2024 It’s been awhile since I checked in. The days go by quickly, whether or not I actually accomplish anything. When I’ve had the energy I’ve worked in my sewing room. I have my Stash Buster top finished, as well as the top for my February UFO Challenge. I also have another … Continue reading Where do the days go? →
• First colourful sign (2/25/2024) - Sunday, February 25, 2024 I went out to the back deck to put away some recycling and noticed the first bit of colour in our crocuses. It felt like a sure sign of Spring but then Pat was looking at the forecast and there is a chance of snow this week. Since the crocuses are … Continue reading First colourful sign →
• Snow (2/27/2024) - Tuesday, February 27, 2024 Winter seems to be back today – if, in fact, we’ve actually had any winter this year. Snow was predicted for this afternoon and, while I ate lunch, I watched it coming in over the water from the Island. So far it is only sticking on the rooftops – at least … Continue reading Snow →
• An extra day (2/29/2024) - February 29, 2024 What did you do with your extra day this year? Here’s what I did – Chatted online with my sisters. Picked out fabric for a new mystery sew-along quilt. Sewed the eyes on my latest chicken block (the one on the bottom). Finished a postage stamp block and set out another to … Continue reading An extra day →
• Cutting (3/1/2024) - Saturday, March 1, 2024 I spent all morning cutting out fabric for various projects I have on my list for March. My March UFO Challenge requires, among other things, 77 half-square triangles. I managed to get enough lights and darks that I think will work. Mine will be a very scrappy version and if I … Continue reading Cutting →
• Snowbound (3/3/2024) - Sunday, March 3, 2024 Plans changed for today when the snow arrived. We’ve had snow on and off for the past couple of days but it started coming down quite heavily this morning. As we watched out the window the city bus didn’t make it up the hill and had to back down, very slowly. … Continue reading Snowbound →
• Disappointing (3/10/2024) - Sunday, March 10, 2024 We were looking forward to a week of movies at the Film Festival – our first movies in about three years. We’ve always enjoyed the Film Festival, even in the early days when we had movies in two different locations sometimes three times a day. This year’s selection was a disappointment … Continue reading Disappointing →
• Movies and sewing (3/15/2024) - Friday, March 15, 2024 I was up early this morning so I could listen to Dave’s announcement that he was signing off with CJWW after 22 years. You might think he was retiring but he’s not – he’s headed off on a new adventure in Regina and taking his family with him. It will make … Continue reading Movies and sewing →
• Happy Easter (3/31/2024) - Sunday, March 31, 2024 This is going to be the last post I send out through e-mail. It may be the last Journal post that I make but I’m keeping my options open and may write something from time to time. My life is pretty simple these days – sewing, reading, and some other crafts … Continue reading Happy Easter →
• A short update (4/2/2024) - Tuesday, April 2, 2024 Yesterday Pat and I went out in the morning and cleaned up one corner of the yard. This is a nice sitting area in the morning but particularly in the evening when the sun is beating down on the front of the house. Our bulbs are all up and we have … Continue reading A short update →
• Lucky Me (4/5/2024) - Friday, April 5, 2024 Have you ever dropped a Facebook friend? I did it yesterday for the first time. I know it can be done anonymously but I really wanted the friend to know why I was doing it. I’m not sure she appreciated my reasons but I didn’t think just ignoring what I didn’t … Continue reading Lucky Me →
• The Plan (4/7/2024) - Sunday, April 7, 2024 I stuck quite well to my new plan on Friday and yesterday. I finished the latest clue for my mystery quilt and moved on to my April UFO. I have had problems with this pattern in the past but the first block went together just fine so I was hopeful the … Continue reading The Plan →
• The pressure is on (4/11/2024) - Thursday, April 11, 2024 It’s been a busy week. I had the worst shopping day ever on Monday. Pat picked some of our rhubarb and I wanted to make a crisp (I had to add rhubarb from the freezer). We didn’t have enough oatmeal for the topping so I picked up the list and made … Continue reading The pressure is on →
• Sports Day (4/13/2024) - Saturday, April 13, 2024 We went out to a concert south of town last night – Nathan Tinkham and Saskia Delaronde. Nathan is a good friend of Pat’s and he’s stayed with us a couple of times for various shows over the years. The hall is just a tad bit smaller than Cranberry Hall but, … Continue reading Sports Day →
• Back to sewing (4/17/2024) - Wednesday, April 17, 2024 I’m making excellent progress on my grad gift, as I should be after several days of non-stop working on it. I’m at the border stage now and we’ve decided to have the project framed in Calgary so that will buy me at least a couple of extra weeks for stitching. I … Continue reading Back to sewing →
• I can do a little (4/24/2024) - Wednesday, April 24, 2024 My plan for today was to get out in the yard and do some weeding. Our gardener has had a couple of medical issues and hasn’t been able to come yet this year. In the meantime our plants are all coming up, along with the weeds. Having the green compost pickup … Continue reading I can do a little →
• It’s good to be home (6/6/2024) - Thursday, June 6, 2024 We had such a good holiday spending time with family. First stop was Calgary where the weather changed every half hour – sun, rain, hail, and more sun. The wind was howling in Saskatoon but the weather didn’t stop us from having a good time. Our first task in Calgary was … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• Temperature Tales (6/8/2024) - Saturday, June 8, 2024 I have been interested in a temperature quilt since I saw photos from the latest Saskatoon quilt show. A temperature quilt uses blocks that incorporate the high and low temperatures of any particular day. My first thought was to do the quilt to represent the high temperatures for 2023; that was … Continue reading Temperature Tales →
• It’s that kind of day (6/14/2024) - Friday, June 14, 2024 I got up early this morning and was looking forward to finishing my book while I had my first cup of coffee. I filled the container with water, picked out my pod and hit the brew button. Just a minute later I turned around and my coffee was spilling everywhere – … Continue reading It’s that kind of day →
• Botanical Garden (6/16/2024) - May 28, 2024 This stitch-along came out in 2022 and I made a start at it fairly quickly. It was close to being finished when I started thinking about Asher’s grad gift. I originally intended to do a different project but it didn’t go well so I decided I’d finish this one. There were a … Continue reading Botanical Garden →
• Next Steps (6/17/2024) - Monday, June 17, 2024 I settled in to work in my sewing room this morning and realized I have several projects ready for the next step. I have a couple of birthday cards that need to get finished up. I have one trimmed to size and another one that needs a bit of hand stitching … Continue reading Next Steps →
• Suck it up Buttercup (6/22/2024) - June 22, 2024 While we were on Texada I had a phone appointment with my oncology doctor in Vancouver. He arranged for some blood work and a bone scan. The scan was originally scheduled in Vancouver but when we saw the cost for a one-night’s accommodation I called back to see if I could have … Continue reading Suck it up Buttercup →
• Choices (7/4/2024) - July 4, 2024 I came up to my sewing room this morning without a real plan on what I would do. There are so many choices; most of them don’t require a decision so I don’t know why I don’t pick something and just get it done. I really thought I was finished with this … Continue reading Choices →
• Does it really help? (7/8/2024) - Monday, July 8, 2024 A few days ago I decided to update my daily task list with a number of things that I had removed from rotation after my diagnosis. I have barely been keeping up with the “regular” tasks that come up each day but I felt it was time to get back to … Continue reading Does it really help? →
• Restraint (7/11/2024) - Thursday, July 11, 2024 For a long time I’ve shown great restraint in making fabric purchases, or really any quilting-related purchases. On my last trip to Calgary and Saskatoon I admit there were a few dollars spent in various quilting shops. I purchased fabric to make some screens for Elizabeth, some fabric for a couple … Continue reading Restraint →
• Clutch Purse (9/19/2024) - September, 2024 I needed a purse for Walid and Madison’s engagement party so I started looking online for a pattern. Once I found the pattern I needed fabric. I wanted something sturdier than quilting cotton so I went shopping at Gail’s. She had a nice linen that perfectly matched the colour of my shoes. She … Continue reading Clutch Purse →
• Congratulations Madison and Walid (9/19/2024) - September 6, 2024 What a lovely event to celebrate Madison and Walid’s engagement. Walid is Lebanese so the celebration was going to allow us a glimpse into a very different culture. We weren’t told many details except that it was a fancy-dress party. Online searches didn’t reveal much information but anyone our family spoke to … Continue reading Congratulations Madison and Walid →
• Happy Birthday Dylan (12/12/2024) - December 12, 2024 Dylan will be travelling to Miami on his birthday and, with the postal strike, his celebration will be delayed until he returns. Hopefully his present will be waiting for him when he gets home.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 2 (12/14/2024) - December 14, 2024 It wasn’t easy finding a tree that would fit on the template but I did it. And it wasn’t easy finding a template that seemed the right size. I used lots of paper printing out various sizes for each of these. A friend gave me some corners off a fabric box she … Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas – Day 2 →
• Elizabeth and After (12/15/2024) - Author: Matt Cohen I read this book years ago; I have copies of my website dating back to 2010 but I couldn’t find my initial review. I couldn’t remember anything about the story but in my mind it was the greatest book ever. I’ve carried it around with me since at least my Port Coquitlam … Continue reading Elizabeth and After →
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 1 (12/15/2024) - December 13, 2024 Today is the day our 12 Days of Christmas was to start. Due to the postal strike we have decided that we won’t mail out any of our Christmas parcels until the strike is over. So the 12 Days may be 12 Days after the package arrives. Or it may be catching … Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas – Day 1 →
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 3 (12/15/2024) - December 15, 2024 I was able to use some of my Christmas fabric scraps for these.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 4 (12/16/2024) - December 16, 2024
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 5 (12/17/2024) - December 17, 2024 Another one I forgot to photograph before the parcels were wrapped.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 6 (12/18/2024) - December 18, 2024 The gift this day was a set of strong fridge magnets so I made some tiny magnets to go along with them. The fridge magnets were strong enough to hold up the Day 1 wreath.
• Happy Birthday Dave (12/19/2024) - December 19, 2024 Does this look familiar? It’s the same pattern as I used before but the presents are wrapped differently. Due to the postal strike Dave is unlikely to get his “real” present in time for his birthday.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 7 (12/19/2024) - December 19, 2024 Traditionally this package has contained chocolates in honour of it also being Dave’s birthday. I switched it up a little this year and, again, the tag is in the parcel. Although my quilted tree isn’t quite as intricate as indicated in the pattern I had fun with them.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 8 (12/20/2024) - December 20, 2024 I love the bows on these tags.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 9 (12/21/2024) - December 21, 2024 Can you see the flowers?
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 10 (12/22/2024) - December 22, 2024 It is hard to disguise a gift card but I did my best. In hindsight I should have put a Spring/Summer fabric on the back.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 11 (12/23/2024) - December 23, 2024 These were fun to make and left-over from another project.
• 12 Days of Christmas – Day 12 (12/24/2024) - December 24, 2024 These snowmen are based on a pattern that the girls’ Nana made for them many years ago and that I hang on my tree every year. I updated the pattern and had a lot of fun putting the snowmen together and gathering photos to fit inside the window. This will be my … Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas – Day 12 →
• 2024 – My year in review (12/31/2024) - December 31, 2024 At this time of year I reflect on the things I have accomplished over the past twelve months. In some cases it is more than I thought but in some cases much less than I would have liked. So here are my totals (of the things I keep track of). I read … Continue reading 2024 – My year in review →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2025) - January 1, 2025 Without even making a plan my crafting year is filling up. My current Tuesday/Guild project is a mystery. I’ve finished two clues (yes, one of them had two blocks) but I have no idea if this will be the layout. Up to now there has been quite a gap between revealing the … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• Believing the Lie (1/20/2025) - Author: Elizabeth George Goodreads says I’ve read the book twice but I’ve never written a review (that I could find). Although the book was good I don’t want to make the mistake of reading it again. I always like the Inspector Lynley novels; this one is the 17th in the series. It doesn’t matter a … Continue reading Believing the Lie →
• Jane (2/23/2025) - This was my January sewing project with Stacia and Deloise, but I didn’t finish it until our February sewing day. Appliqué isn’t my favourite technique but I happen to like stars so this was a mixture of the two. I had everything done but the quilting when I set it aside to work on quilt … Continue reading Jane →
• Jessy (2/23/2025) - I was playing catch-up for the February sewing session with Stacia and Deloise so I was happy that this one was small. It may have been small but there were a lot of small pieces that went into it – 152 to be precise. I admit to having a bit of a head start on … Continue reading Jessy →
• Bridal Shower for Madison (4/16/2025) - April 12, 2025 As I worked on various projects for the past while I’ve been putting them aside for Madison’s shower if they seemed appropriate. Place the turtle on the kitchen floor. Please don’t kick him out the door. He is there to help you with the task of mopping up that spill. So place … Continue reading Bridal Shower for Madison →
• Homecoming (4/23/2025) - Author: Kate Morton As with all the other books I’ve read by this author the story is told in two different time periods; both stories are set in Australia. Jess is called back from England when her elderly grandmother is admitted to hospital. Jess is estranged from her mother Polly when, as a young child, … Continue reading Homecoming →
• February (7/6/2025) - Author: Lisa Moore Pat picked this book up off the for-sale stand at the library. He knows Lisa and said he thought it was one of her best books. I knew it was a contender for Canada Reads but I didn’t realize it was a winner. The story follows Helen, the widow of one of … Continue reading February →
• Lucas (7/20/2025) - This was my July project for my sewing day with Stacia and Deloise. I wasn’t looking forward to this one – another log cabin made with 3/4″ strips. I persevered and got it finish although it took two days. In the photo I can see the pattern but up close and in person it doesn’t … Continue reading Lucas →
• Triangle Frenzy – Swirl (7/20/2025) - I’ve had the patterns for several in the Triangle Frenzy series for years. It wasn’t until last year that I found fabric that would suit – so I purchased a couple of pieces. At some point I’ll used the second piece to make one of the other patterns. This was surprisingly easy to complete – … Continue reading Triangle Frenzy – Swirl →
• Train Dreams (8/10/2025) - Author: Denis Johnson When my Facebook group recommended this book I didn’t realize it was a novella, a genre I don’t generally read. Pat picked it up at the library for me and, after he brought it home, he sat down and read it through in an afternoon. I took a bit more time than … Continue reading Train Dreams →
• Community Quilt (2025) (8/24/2025) - I didn’t piece this but I think it was someone who participated in one of Carol’s Summer Mysteries (or Saskatchewan Mystery as many in the group call it). I did the quilting on my machine on Texada. It worked well and I’ll use it again for quilting if we spend a length of time over … Continue reading Community Quilt (2025) →
• Trees (Block #6) (8/31/2025) - This was the last pattern we received prior to taking our summer break. I was determined to get caught up before our September session. I had to ask for help from Stacia on one of the stitches our designer used but, in the end, I wasn’t able to make it work and went back to … Continue reading Trees (Block #6) →
• Merry Christmas (12/24/2025) - From our house to you.
• My Brilliant Friend (1/1/2026) - Author: Ferrante, Elena This was a recommend from a group I follow on Facebook. I didn’t realize that it was the first in a series of four. The story follows two friends, Elena and Lila, from the early 1950’s before they started school until Lila’s marriage at age 16. They grew up in a poor … Continue reading My Brilliant Friend →
• Congratulations Alex (3/29/2026) - Alex’s graduation ceremonies aren’t until June but he was looking to be fashionable for the big day so I contributed to his wardrobe. And doesn’t he look amazing? Alex already has two scholarships and has been accepted into more than one university. No matter what he decides to do, or where he decides to go, … Continue reading Congratulations Alex →
• Noah Barleywater Runs Away (5/31/2026) - Author: Boyne, John I downloaded this book for our recent Saskatchewan trip and completely forgot about it until I got a notice that it was due in a couple of days. I was able to renew it for three weeks but it only took a week to finish it. As I started reading I thought … Continue reading Noah Barleywater Runs Away →
• Cosmetic Bag (5/31/2026) - The Guild decided to spend some of our money and our project was to make and fill cosmetic bags for our women’s shelter. I’m not a fan of making bags and I’m certainly not a fan of zippers but it was for a good cause so I decided to participate. We were working from a … Continue reading Cosmetic Bag →
• Checking in (12/12/2022) - Monday, January 12,2022 I’m checking in with a brief update. The days after my first treatment were better than that first afternoon although I had to deal with a bad headache and I wasn’t allowed to take my usual headache meds. The headache has subsided but not actually gone away. My sleep is a bit … Continue reading Checking in →
• Diamond Dots (12/10/2022) - December 10, 2022 On my last trip to Saskatoon we made a stop at Krazy Bins and I found a diamond dots kit of a couple of parrots. I bought it with the idea that, when done, it would be a reminder of Diane who loved parrots. It has sat in the drawer of my … Continue reading Diamond Dots →
• So far – good (12/9/2022) - Friday, December 9, 2022 So far – good Home from the first treatment. It wasn’t at all bad. IV went in the back of my hand; it’s a bit sore now but she said it was the best spot for it and I was OK with that as she had no trouble inserting it. There … Continue reading So far – good →
• Thanks (12/7/2022) - Wednesday, December 7, 2022 Thank you for all the suggestions to solve my ink issue. At it turns out there are worse things than a bit of ink on the project. A couple of people suggested de-greasers so that’s what I tried this morning. Dawn dish soap is often recommended to use if colours in … Continue reading Thanks →
• I’m set (12/6/2022) - Tuesday, December 6, 2022 It was a full day on the Island yesterday but I think we are all set to get this show on the road. I had the injection for the bone scan and then we had a couple of hours in which I was to drink lots of water. We had a … Continue reading I’m set →
• A couple of things (12/4/2022) - Sunday, December 4, 2022 I’m still managing the Timberlane Facebook page; imagine my surprise at seeing this quilt finished. The blocks are from my Block-a-Day calendar and they were pieced at some point during the first phase of Covid. Pat deserves some credit for helping me place the various blocks into a top. I took … Continue reading A couple of things →
• The long and the short of it (12/3/2022) - December 3, 2022 I spent the longest time in a stylist’s chair this morning. My hair was on the longer side but my stylist is a student and she was being very careful. Rikki is Pat’s guitar student and her Mum owns the salon and does Pat’s nails. They are only doing cuts for friends … Continue reading The long and the short of it →
• What a Day (12/2/2022) - December 2, 2022 It has been a crazy two days. Yesterday was my first consultation with the Vancouver Cancer Clinic. So much information – Pat and I were both scrambling to make notes as he gave us the information. I have a long road ahead of me – a year to 14 months. There will … Continue reading What a Day →
• Done (11/30/2022) - Wednesday, November 30, 2022 I didn’t quite manage to have all my packages in the mail by the first of December but I’m close. I finished up the last of the projects this afternoon and I’ll try to get all the wrapping finished tonight. We were up about five this morning; I thought there might … Continue reading Done →
• It didn’t hurt a bit (11/29/2022) - Tuesday, November 29, 2022 We had a lovely weekend on Texada. Although we thought we had planned perfectly it turns out the Cancer Clinic in Vancouver is very responsive to referrals. We were nicely settled in with a fire going Friday morning when a call came through on Pat’s cell. Our coverage over there isn’t … Continue reading It didn’t hurt a bit →
• Christmas Shopping (11/24/2022) - Thursday, November 24, 2022 Although I’m almost finished my Christmas shopping I can’t help but admire all the neat stocking stuffers that arrive on my Facebook feed. I keep thinking I should add them to my list for next year. When I search for the websites the ads are coming from something called ScamAdvisor.com always seems top … Continue reading Christmas Shopping →
• Surveys (11/23/2022) - Wednesday, November 23, 2022 Christy’s first job was to do marketing surveys for a company. Whenever Pat or I fit into the age category she or her friend was looking for we were happy to answer their calls. A long time has passed though and now we always decline to answer any surveys when they … Continue reading Surveys →
• Why did I put it off? (11/22/2022) - Tuesday, November 22, 2022 I did an extra lap on the treadmill this morning. I’m determined to be in the best possible shape before I start my treatments. Between the walking and my arm exercises I feel like I’m doing more now than I have since I quit yoga. My attempt to keep busy worked … Continue reading Why did I put it off? →
• Getting started (11/21/2022) - Monday, November 21, 2022 I had my appointment at our local Cancer Clinic this morning and learned a lot about the process ahead of me. There are a lot of variables but they will be answered in the coming weeks. The doctor I saw today isn’t a dedicated oncologist (we don’t have one in Powell … Continue reading Getting started →
• Finally (11/18/2022) - Friday, November 18, 2022 My original plan was to wait for the Cancer Clinic to call me regarding an appointment. It was taking so much longer than I anticipated so Plan B was to call them three weeks after my last surgeon’s appointment, which would have been Monday. But yesterday I was impatient so I … Continue reading Finally →
• It’s been awhile (11/14/2022) - Monday, November 14, 2022 Ken asked me the other night if I had stopped sending out my messages and I can understand why he might think that. My last message to you was just before my surgery. I have recovered quite well from the surgery. In the first few days I was so happy to … Continue reading It’s been awhile →
• Happy Hallowe’en (10/31/2022) - October 31, 2022 Since Kathryn’s calendar block had a decidedly Hallowe’en design I decided to make Hallowe’en table runners for Christy and Elizabeth. Although the pattern is the same I mixed up the fabrics to make them look different from one another. I found the pattern online and I’ll be keeping it handy as it … Continue reading Happy Hallowe’en →
• Well that’s it! (10/17/2022) - Monday, October 17, 2022 It is getting harder and harder to find things to do that will fill my days. I’m not completely out of ideas but the list is certainly getting shorter. Yesterday I finished prepping another few projects to work on during my recovery and today I added a few more. I expect/hope … Continue reading Well that’s it! →
• I can do it myself (10/15/2022) - Saturday, October 15, 2022 When we moved to Powell River we bought a new box spring, mattress and bed frame. On the same day they delivered everything we returned the box spring as the bed with the box spring was so high that we were going to need a stepladder to get in and out … Continue reading I can do it myself →
• Hugs (10/13/2022) - Thursday, October 13, 2022 I had a lovely surprise in the mail today – hugs from my kids. The parcel was mailed by Christy and I opened the card first and found that the gift was from everyone. When I opened the package I thought I was getting a lovely, soft blanket that looked the … Continue reading Hugs →
• Lost and Found (10/12/2022) - Wednesday, October 12, 2022 Several months ago I misplaced a small plastic case that had several hand stitching essentials in it. The one I was particularly missing was a tool that helped me to thread short ends in through the back of my cross stitch and blackwork. I knew where I last had it in … Continue reading Lost and Found →
• All set (10/11/2022) - Tuesday, October 11, 2022 I’m still over a week away from my surgery but I’m set. Kathryn said I needed a housecoat that wouldn’t be too heavy on my shoulder so I got one from Amazon. It is very much like the ones you find in hotels that have pools and a spa. I also … Continue reading All set →
• Keeping busy (10/10/2022) - Monday, October 10, 2022 After I came back from Texada the last time I had trouble doing anything productive, unless you consider making puzzles and playing games on my iPad productive. I decided I was probably depressed, gave myself “the talk” and got on with it. Friday was another bad day. I waited all day … Continue reading Keeping busy →
• Working overtime (10/6/2022) - Thursday, October 6, 2022 When I worked for a pay cheque my hours were usually seven to three. I’ve worked those hours and more today. This morning I worked on Pat’s accounting. There were lots of questions but he was able to answer them quite quickly. I was also able to finish off the areas … Continue reading Working overtime →
• More productive (10/4/2022) - Tuesday, October 4, 2022 After several days of not getting much of anything done I gave myself a talking-to this morning and it might have worked. I woke up at four and by five I was still awake and thinking of all the things I needed to do. Of course all of those things have … Continue reading More productive →
• Having trouble (10/3/2022) - Monday, October 3, 2022 I’m having trouble motivating myself. I came back from Texada determined to get the yard cleaned up, some housecleaning done and a few projects completed prior to my surgery. I’ve managed to do some yard work but I can’t seem to motivate myself to do anything else. I finished clearing the … Continue reading Having trouble →
• It’s kind of like having a dog (10/1/2022) - Saturday, October 1, 2022 As I was pulling weeds out of the patio bricks this morning (again) I had the thought that the patio and driveway are a bit like having a dog. With a dog you have to constantly pick up their mess – do it one day, maybe miss a day or two, … Continue reading It’s kind of like having a dog →
• There’s always another way (9/29/2022) - Thursday, September 29, 2022 Tuesday night I had a terrible sleep because I kept thinking of that quilt top. The majority of folks liked the third (and most difficult) option but I knew I would have trouble aligning all the blocks properly. So when I got up Wednesday morning I was determine to use the … Continue reading There’s always another way →
• So many choices (9/27/2022) - Tuesday, September 27, 2022 I’ve been down in the workshop most of the day and it is time to make some decisions. Now that the blocks are all done I have to decide which layout I want for this quilt. This was the first option suggested by the designer. I like it – it is … Continue reading So many choices →
• Accomplishments (9/26/2022) - Monday, September 26, 2022 I like to accomplish something every day; sometimes it isn’t a complete finish but I like to at least move ahead on something. Today my accomplishment is finishing a new book – Still Life with Bread Crumbs. As I was reading about the author I see that she has several other … Continue reading Accomplishments →
• I’m way behind (9/25/2022) - Sunday, September 25, 2022 Yesterday afternoon I got down to my workshop to do some sewing. I didn’t want to light a fire so I took a heater with me. By the time I did a bit of cleaning up I was warm enough to take off my sweater and turn off the heater. I … Continue reading I’m way behind →
• Something old … (9/23/2022) - Friday, September 23, 2022 … something new and a couple of finishes as well. Ahh – Venice. This was my favourite spot on our Italy tour. We wandered streets never really knowing how to get from one place to another but we were never entirely lost. We visited a couple of other islands in the … Continue reading Something old … →
• Texada (9/22/2022) - Thursday, September 22, 2022 This isn’t my best memory of our trip to France but you can hardly remember France without a thought about the Eiffel Tower. We were in Paris during a World Cup sporting event and shortly after we were here a riot broke out near the Tower. We were far enough away … Continue reading Texada →
• What a difference (9/21/2022) - Wednesday, September 21, 2022 I have many memories of our trip to Ireland but perhaps one of the strongest is our trip to Enniskillen where the McKnight’s emigrated from in 1836. My great-great grandparents (George & Mary) were married in Enniskillen in 1835. I was able to talk to my doctor today and the results … Continue reading What a difference →
• Happy Birthday (9/20/2022) - Tuesday, September 20, 2022 Growing up Mum made a lot of cakes and they were all good. She had two recipes for angel food cakes that were family favourites – Ken liked her lemon one and my favourite was the chocolate one. It wasn’t until a few years after I sent out Mum’s recipe book … Continue reading Happy Birthday →
• And I’m done (9/19/2022) - Monday, September 19, 2022 I can’t seem to stay away from the photos from our East Coast trip. These chairs were on the lawn in front of the B&B we stayed at in Arichat on Cape Breton Island. Not only do I love this photo that I took, I also have a post card with … Continue reading And I’m done →
• Feeling lazy (9/18/2022) - Sunday, September 18, 2022 I don’t know how many Terry Fox Runs/Walks I have participated in over the years but there have been a lot. I walked with my girls, I walked with some of my girls on bikes, I’ve walked with Pat and Finnegan, and I’ve walked with only Finnegan. And since then I’ve … Continue reading Feeling lazy →
• Missed opportunity (9/17/2022) - Saturday, September 17, 2022 This is the only moose I have ever seen – other than maybe a dead one at Uncle Jack’s after one of his hunting trips. Moose didn’t live around the farm when I was growing up but apparently they are back. Kathryn and Dave see moose every time they go camping. … Continue reading Missed opportunity →
• I like it better already (9/16/2022) - Friday, September 16, 2022 This photo of the Anne of Green Gables house on P.E.I. brings back so many fun memories of the trip to the East coast that we made with Stacia and Ron in 2008. How can it be that long ago? I’m remembering particularly Magnetic Hill, the mine tour, the “mushroom” walk, … Continue reading I like it better already →
• Starting over (9/15/2022) - Thursday, September 15, 2022 You know me – there is a story behind every picture and it seems wrong not to share it. Day 2 of my challenge. The McKnight women might remember this sign from the year we got together at Roberta’s Clearwater Lake cabin. We’ve spent so much time together over the past … Continue reading Starting over →
• Blessing or a curse? (9/14/2022) - Wednesday, September 14, 2022 I’ve been following Tiffany’s 10-days of photos on Facebook and I’m enjoying them all, particularly the ones I can associate with her. I hadn’t a care in the world about being tagged so you can imagine my surprise this morning when I saw that she had picked me. My original thought … Continue reading Blessing or a curse? →
• Getting things done (9/13/2022) - Tuesday, September 13, 2022 I’ve finished both of the tops for my new projects. Hopefully tomorrow I can start sandwiching. I had almost as much trouble with the second one as I did the first. I get so confused when I look at a picture that shows an up-and-down arrangement but I have to sew … Continue reading Getting things done →
• No time for supper (9/12/2022) - Monday, September 12, 2022 I went out to the yard with two tasks in mind – cut down the daisies that are done for the year and make another weeding trip around the patio blocks. I got started on the daisies and then Pat joined me and got out the hedge trimmers. He cut down … Continue reading No time for supper →
• Smoke in the air (9/11/2022) - Sunday, September 11, 2022 We woke up to a hazy view over the ocean and it has gotten worse as the day has progressed. It is warm though so we have the doors and windows open which means we can smell the smoke inside. There is a bit of a breeze coming in my window … Continue reading Smoke in the air →
• It’s amazing (9/10/2022) - Saturday, September 10, 2022 I commented to Pat yesterday that it was amazing how much I could get done for myself when I didn’t have Hall and Guild work to do. I may at some point be sorry to have lost their work but for now I’m enjoying working on my own stuff. I thought … Continue reading It’s amazing →
• Question answered (9/9/2022) - Friday, September 9, 2022 I was a nervous wreck this morning before my procedure so I came upstairs and started to work on more transitioning for the Hall. It keeps my mind off almost anything else because for each thing that I’m making notes on there are four other things that come to mind that … Continue reading Question answered →
• You wait and wait and then … (9/8/2022) - Thursday, September 8, 2022 While I waited to go to my ultrasound this morning I managed to be a bit productive. I needed to keep my mind off the test so I did three loads of laundry and the vacuuming and I got a few more details worked out for the Hall. Not long before … Continue reading You wait and wait and then … →
• Patience (9/7/2022) - Wednesday, September 7, 2022 I’ve been told many times that I have a lot of patience. They wouldn’t have said that if they had seen me yesterday or even early this morning. Yesterday while I waited for the phone to ring I finished my Home Circle quilt top. I have it packed now and ready … Continue reading Patience →
• Not my last one (9/5/2022) - Monday, September 5, 2022 I’ve just put the finishing touches on my first Sashiko project. I’m very happy with the way it turned out. There was some experimentation with how to do some of the stitches and now that it is finished I know what I’ll do for my next one. Did I say one? … Continue reading Not my last one →
• Is this fall? (9/4/2022) - Sunday, September 4, 2022 We woke up to quite a stormy day – some rain and a lot of wind. The sun has shone off and on throughout the day but, in general, it really feels like a fall day. Fortunately most of the leaves on the trees are still green so they aren’t looking … Continue reading Is this fall? →
• Can you spot the differences? (9/3/2022) - Saturday, September 3, 2022 There have been a few changes!
• A productive day (8/31/2022) - Wednesday, August 31, 2022 I’ve had quite a productive day – the first in a long time. It was either do some housework or some yard work after breakfast and I decided on yard work. I wanted to test out the new tool we bought at Lee Valley. What a find that was! I did … Continue reading A productive day →
• Great weekend (8/30/2022) - Tuesday, August 30, 2022 We had a lovely weekend in Victoria. We were in no rush to get there so we took the scenic route down the island. We were right on time to check into our B & B and then we headed out to do a little shopping. The mall that was closest … Continue reading Great weekend →
• Wasted day (8/24/2022) - Wednesday, September 24, 2022 My plan for the day was to get the borders attached to another quilt top. When I came upstairs my English Paper-Piecing card was wanting some attention so I started to work on it. I knew I was late getting it turned into a card but I still thought it was … Continue reading Wasted day →
• Staying home (8/23/2022) - Tuesday, August 23, 2022 As usual there is never enough time in the day to get everything done that I have on my list. Yesterday was no different. I thought I could get a couple of quilt tops finished but by the end of the day I didn’t have even one done. I started a … Continue reading Staying home →
• Puttering (8/21/2022) - Sunday, August 21, 2022 I had some computer work to do this morning and I decided that I’d work my way around the room cleaning up what I could. I passed off a couple of Hall duties to another Board member and cleared away some paper and digital files that I/they won’t need any longer. … Continue reading Puttering →
• On a roll (8/20/2022) - Saturday, August 20, 2022 I’m not sure what got into me over the last couple of days but whatever it is I like it. I was sorting through a bin yesterday looking for orphan blocks I could use for my Circle of Nine class, as well as samples I could use for the Guild’s reveal … Continue reading On a roll →
• Old Pots … New Uses (8/19/2022) - Friday, August 19, 2022 While we were in Panorama in June Ron was organizing a garage sale at the lake. Stacia asked if I wanted the old dipper from the well at home and I jumped at the chance to have it. As the days moved on Ron found other pots that he thought I … Continue reading Old Pots … New Uses →
• Priorities or Diversions (8/18/2022) - Thursday, August 18, 2022 I wake up every morning more or less knowing what I’m going to do for the day. But life gets in the way and before I can get to my task list I find there are other priorities. First off is coffee on the deck and work on a crossword. But … Continue reading Priorities or Diversions →
• Another Guild day (8/17/2022) - Wednesday, August 17, 2022 I decided I should make a start on the Block of the Month packages I mentioned yesterday. Before I started cutting up fabric I thought it would be best if I cut and sewed the block myself, out of my own fabrics. I’m glad I did because when I got to … Continue reading Another Guild day →
• Great plans (8/16/2022) - Tuesday, August 16, 2022 I started the day at the Guild sewing bee. I have a Tuesday project that requires 77 pinwheels (I love pinwheels) and 77 half-square triangles. It’s been a few weeks since I worked on the project but I made good progress today. I finished making the half-square triangles (although they need … Continue reading Great plans →
• A couple of lazy days (8/15/2022) - Monday, August 15, 2022 The show at the Hall on Saturday night was excellent. I thought it might be my last “working” show but I think there will be one more before my term is up at the end of September. The duo were ones that Pat and I cancelled due to Covid and it … Continue reading A couple of lazy days →
• Rain today (8/13/2022) - Saturday, August 13, 2022 It rained overnight and has been cloudy and cool most of the day. I can see a bit of blue sky out right now so I expect the forecast is right – we’re in for more hot weather next week. Sitting on the deck this morning for coffee didn’t happen and … Continue reading Rain today →
• Catching up (8/12/2022) - Friday, August 12, 2022 I am ever so slowly catching up on my task list. With this week’s finish of Ashford Square I have completed everything that was listed on my January UFO list. The quilt with Mum’s fabric is done (scrappy), the Guild Challenge placemats that were supposed to be done for June are … Continue reading Catching up →
• Back to sewing (8/11/2022) - Thursday, August 11, 2022 Finally I got back to my Thursday sewing. It has been almost a month since Gail and I got together and, as you can imagine, there was a lot of catching up to do. In fact all we did was catch up; neither of us did any sewing. I wasn’t there … Continue reading Back to sewing →
• Not quite so hot (8/10/2022) - Wednesday, August 10, 2022 It was quite warm in the house yesterday and we had the fan on in the bedroom all night. It is cooler today and we have a good breeze as well. I hung laundry on the line this morning; the first load was pretty much dry before I had the second … Continue reading Not quite so hot →
• What’s different? (8/9/2022) - Tuesday, August 9, 2022 I’ve been missing in action for the past two days but I didn’t want to bore you. I spent both of those days quilting and then working on Sashiko in the evening. It might bore you to hear about it a couple of days in a row but I quite enjoyed … Continue reading What’s different? →
• Avoidance (8/6/2022) - Saturday, August 6, 2022 Did I water and work in the yard this morning to avoid having to quilt? Did I start quilting to avoid having to wash the kitchen floor which was my original plan for the day? And what am I avoiding when I sit and make jigsaw puzzles on my iPad? After … Continue reading Avoidance →
• Enough for today (8/5/2022) - Friday, August 5, 2022 It was my intention to get a lot more done today than I actually did but it is too late in the day to start on anything else. My morning was spent mainly on Hall and Guild work. I managed to get an hour’s worth of work on my scraps and … Continue reading Enough for today →
• Success (8/4/2022) - Thursday, August 4, 2022 The Program Committee meeting went well this afternoon. It is a relief just to have classes and demo topics sorted out. I still have a lot of work to do but now that I know what is needed I can focus on that. I didn’t want to but it looks like … Continue reading Success →
• Getting back on track (8/3/2022) - Wednesday, August 3, 2022 It felt like old times this morning when I set my timer and started to deal with some scraps. I would normally go for 30 minutes but my cutting table was such a mess I set the timer for an hour. I spent just a tad longer than that by the … Continue reading Getting back on track →
• Some progress (8/2/2022) - Tuesday, August 2, 2022 It is so much cooler today that this morning I put on long pants and Pat used the “C” word (cold). It is unusual to see a cruise ship heading north in the morning but the Comox ferry had just left, the Texada ferry was coming in so it had to … Continue reading Some progress →
• It’s over (8/1/2022) - Monday, August 1, 2022 It is noticeably cooler today. I checked the 14-day weather and our heatwave is over – for now at least. As a result of a cooler house I’ve been upstairs working all day but I haven’t sewn a stitch. I have arranged for a Guild Program Committee meeting here on Thursday. … Continue reading It’s over →
• Changes (7/31/2022) - Sunday, July 31, 2022 It’s time for some changes, although I’ve already made a start. In January, my quilting challenge was to make a quilt using Mum’s fabrics. I had a plan but when I started cutting pieces to fit into that plan I realized I needed a new plan because I didn’t have enough … Continue reading Changes →
• OMG – the heat! (7/29/2022) - Friday, July 29, 2022 I just talked to someone on the phone who loves the heat. She’ll be happy today as the temperature outside is 29 degrees and feels like 36. I don’t know what I’m doing still upstairs, except that Pat is on a Zoom chat and I kind of thought I could wait … Continue reading OMG – the heat! →
• Another hot one (7/28/2022) - Thursday, July 28, 2022 I was out and about this morning and didn’t get anything done in my sewing room during the cool of the morning. I guess it doesn’t help that Pat and I sat out on the cool of the deck for half of it. I came upstairs after lunch to see if … Continue reading Another hot one →
• Did you miss me? (7/27/2022) - Wednesday, July 27, 2022 Kathryn contacted me last night to see if I was okay; I hadn’t sent an entry for a couple of days and she wondered if I had gone over to Texada. All is well and I’ve stayed put in Powell River. Due to the heat, I haven’t spent much time in … Continue reading Did you miss me? →
• Done in a Day (7/24/2022) - Sunday, July 24, 2022 I’ve sometimes been able to finish a card in a day but I’m sure I’ve never finished a calendar block in one session. I left the project yesterday knowing I had done something terribly wrong and gave up on it. But overnight (I sometimes do my best thinking while asleep – … Continue reading Done in a Day →
• Another difficult sewing day (7/23/2022) - Saturday, July 23, 2022 I got an early start to the day’s work and had my first load of laundry on the line before eight. Mind you while the load was washing I was sitting out on the deck with my crossword puzzle book and coffee. I wanted to set the kitchen and living room … Continue reading Another difficult sewing day →
• So much fun (7/22/2022) - Friday, July 22, 2022 We had such a good time with Kathryn, Dave and the boys; we were busy every day and the time went by too quickly. The weather cooperated for the most part; we had a few showers on the first afternoon at the beach (the afternoon they arrived) but after that it … Continue reading So much fun →
• The hardest part is waiting (7/16/2022) - Saturday, July 16, 2022 Pat and I were at the grocery store shortly after seven this morning. Pat had an online session at nine so we wanted to be finished in plenty of time for that. It didn’t take long to get everything on the list. Pat had the cart and walked through the store … Continue reading The hardest part is waiting →
• Where is summer? (7/15/2022) - Friday, July 15, 2022 Yesterday morning, while we were having coffee on the deck, I thought it looked like there was some rain headed our way. I wanted to get the grass cut before that happened so headed out quite early. The rain hadn’t started by the time I finished so I stayed outside and … Continue reading Where is summer? →
• I knew it wouldn’t last (7/13/2022) - Wednesday, July 13, 2022 I spent all morning cleaning up my sewing room. It hasn’t been this tidy since … I don’t know when. I probably won’t get at any sewing between now and when our company arrives but it was nice to see it clean and tidy. After lunch I went to work clearing … Continue reading I knew it wouldn’t last →
• Slowly, very slowly (7/12/2022) - Tuesday, July 12, 2022 I had some time this morning before heading off to sew and I thought I would use it to start cleaning the upstairs rooms. I need to move a lot of stuff from the “other room” into my sewing room but first I need to clean up my sewing room. I … Continue reading Slowly, very slowly →
• I’m done (7/11/2022) - Monday, July 11, 2022 I had such a good weekend on Texada, in spite of the weather. Now that I’m home we’re having the warmest day of the year of course. I spent one day in the workshop cutting the fabric for the Summer Mystery that Stacia, Deloise and I are doing. It took longer … Continue reading I’m done →
• Remembering Dorothy (7/10/2022) - It was a shock to hear of Dorothy’s passing; although we had been warned it came much faster than we expected. Dorothy has been in my life for all of my adult years; she and Ken were married for 52 years and I knew her before then. We took a knitting class together at Sears … Continue reading Remembering Dorothy →
• Ready and waiting (7/8/2022) - Friday, July 8, 2022 We’re heading over to Texada this evening; I’ll come home Monday afternoon for a meeting Monday night but Pat doesn’t have to be home until Wednesday. I hadn’t planned to take any sewing-related projects but I decided to take some fabric and start cutting for Carol’s summer mystery. I was going … Continue reading Ready and waiting →
• A few more blocks (7/7/2022) - Thursday, July 7, 2022 We had a lovely visit with Peggy and Bill yesterday. They caught the ferry across in time for us to have lunch and then we had a good visit in the afternoon back at the house. I owed them big-time for following me along on my disastrous trip home and giving … Continue reading A few more blocks →
• Reset (7/5/2022) - Tuesday, July 5, 2022 I’m hoping that getting back to the Guild bee today will be the reset I need to get me back on track and into my routine. I stitched down a binding on a quilt; all I need to do now is get a label made and attached. I also had time … Continue reading Reset →
• Progress? (7/4/2022) - Monday, July 4, 2022 I’m not sure you can count it as progress but I accomplished a few things today. After doing a bit of tidying up (not in my sewing room) I remembered that my UFO Challenges should be available. I’ve already decided that next year I’m going to stick with just one challenge … Continue reading Progress? →
• Distracted (7/3/2022) - Sunday, July 3, 2022 Although rain was forecast it didn’t feel like it while we had our coffee on the deck. So while Pat went for groceries I went out and tackled some weeds. I was concentrating on the front patio and I got about half of it done. I’m trying a new method for … Continue reading Distracted →
• Getting back into the swing of things (7/2/2022) - Saturday, July 2, 2022 We had a good view of the fireworks last night; there were a few trees in our sightline but still an enjoyable show. This morning, after coffee on the deck, I put on my long pants and long-sleeved sweater and headed out to do some weeding. The roses are gorgeous but … Continue reading Getting back into the swing of things →
• Time for change? (7/1/2022) - Friday, July 1, 2022 After being away from my desk for so long I had time to think about what I would do when I got home. One of the things I was determined to do was to spend more time on the deck. I take all that time to keep the yard looking good … Continue reading Time for change? →
• Finally (6/11/2022) - Saturday, June 11, 2022 I’ve finished my packing and I’m quite sure I’m ready to go – I just need to pack my phone and my charger. I took a few things out of my suitcase, added a few things in, rearranged a few things and it still feels light enough to manage. I cleaned … Continue reading Finally →
• I hate waiting ! (6/10/2022) - Friday, June 10, 2022 In my mind I’m all set and ready for my trip; in reality not so much. But I hate waiting. I don’t want to start on anything because I either won’t have time to get finished or because it will be too hard on my back. I’m having a hard time … Continue reading I hate waiting ! →
• Another change in plans (6/9/2022) - Thursday, June 9, 2022 I don’t think I’ve ever taken a trip that has involved so many Plan Bs and changes to the original plan but I made another one today. I thought I’d be taking my backpack as my suitcase but we decided that a pull-along might be a better option as twisting to … Continue reading Another change in plans →
• Out and about (6/8/2022) - Wednesday, June 8, 2022 I had an appointment today so I made a list of everything I thought I needed so I could do my shopping and errands in one trip. I made a deposit for the Hall, picked up some cash for myself and then headed to the doctor’s appointment. I didn’t expect I’d … Continue reading Out and about →
• Vanished (6/8/2022) - Author: Mary McGarry Morris I liked this book more than I thought I would, although there were parts that I found disturbing. A bit of a twist on the usual kidnapping story. Aubrey is a very quiet and reserved man who is afraid of his wife and children, although he does love them. One day … Continue reading Vanished →
• Moving a bit better (6/7/2022) - Tuesday, June 7, 2022 I didn’t have a very good day yesterday and spent most of it on the bed or the couch curled in the fetal position. Perhaps it helped because I’m moving better today and I’ve actually worked on a few things. One thing I’ve learned is that I am unable to listen … Continue reading Moving a bit better →
• Still nursing my back (6/5/2022) - Sunday, June 5, 2022 I’m still nursing my back today – it’s about the same as yesterday. I finished the hand stitching on the last project that I wanted done before my trip. But now, do I have time for one more? I’ve also spent a lot of my day at my desk working on … Continue reading Still nursing my back →
• Slow moving (6/4/2022) - Saturday, June 4, 2022 Although my back is a bit better today I’m still not moving very fast. As it was yesterday, as long as I stay in the same position I have no pain but moving in any way can hurt. I’ve started using my yoga breathing for anytime I have to move (breath … Continue reading Slow moving →
• Slow Day (6/3/2022) - Friday, June 3, 2022 It has rained most of the day but I see the sun is just starting to come out now. Where is the summer weather? Yesterday I got about an hour on the deck before the clouds rolled in and it started to rain. Yesterday somewhere between getting my parcel to the … Continue reading Slow Day →
• Backup Plan (6/2/2022) - Thursday, June 2, 2022 I did a bit of Guild work this morning before heading out to the post office. I got my box of sewing projects into the mail and then I started to worry that it wouldn’t arrive in time. It should, but it only has one extra day if something goes wrong. … Continue reading Backup Plan →
• 3rd Time the Charm? (6/1/2022) - Wednesday, June 1, 2020 Another rainy start to the day. I had to take my car in for some repairs yesterday and was anticipating a nice walk home but it was raining so I had to call a cab. I moved my sewing centre downstairs for the day (my machine, cutting board and ironing board) … Continue reading 3rd Time the Charm? →
• UFO Challenge – May (5/31/2022) - Tuesday, May 31, 2022 For my quilting challenge I was supposed to be quilting this Guild mystery from a couple of years ago. All I managed to do was to get it sandwiched. Alternately I would have liked to get the quilting done on this year’s Guild mystery but so far it too is only … Continue reading UFO Challenge – May →
• I need to be careful (5/30/2022) - Monday, May 30, 2022 Deloise said this morning that it is just two weeks until we start our road trip to Panorama. I’m excited but I’m not quite ready yet. A couple more days and I’ll be able to get my box of projects sent off but I still have one more item I’m working … Continue reading I need to be careful →
• A quiet day (5/29/2022) - Sunday, May 29, 2022 Pat headed over to Texada this morning and I’ve had a quiet, but productive day. I did some cleaning and plan to finish all the cleaning tasks tomorrow. I have four cards quilted and ready for hand stitching, which I’ll do this evening. This was my first attempt at using the … Continue reading A quiet day →
• I won the battle (5/28/2022) - Saturday, May 28, 2022 I won the battle but not the war! I was working in the rose garden at the back today and I have the scars to show that it was quite a battle. Things are looking good right now but I know I haven’t won the war – all the blackberries and … Continue reading I won the battle →
• A sewing day (5/27/2022) - Friday, May 27, 2022 I’ve spent all day in the sewing room today and, for a change, I feel like I’ve accomplished something. I have all of my card tops for June finished – a full day of quilting should have them done and ready for the mail at some point during my travels. I’m … Continue reading A sewing day →
• Why are the simple things so hard? (5/26/2022) - Thursday, May 26, 2022 I was getting Ray’s birthday card ready for the mail and noticed I was down to only a few cheques left. There was a “Reminder to Order” form that gave me information on how to order online. Perfect! I went to the site and filled in all the information. When I … Continue reading Why are the simple things so hard? →
• Errands done (5/25/2022) - Wednesday, May 25, 2022 It took all afternoon but I got a whole list of errands and shopping done. But first thing this morning I quilted and got facing on my button project. I like the way it turned out and I made it a bit bigger than the pattern called for. I had a … Continue reading Errands done →
• I should be inspired (5/24/2022) - Tuesday, May 24, 2022 When I looked at my reminders for today I saw that I still needed to clear out a drawer for my neutral fabrics. So I started off with that task. When I tired of doing that (before it was done) I walked up to the letter box and then went out … Continue reading I should be inspired →
• Button work (5/23/2022) - Monday, May 23, 2022 I really wanted to work in the yard today and persuaded Pat we should transplant our hanging baskets into pots. By the time I got my gardening shoes on and headed out the door it was spitting rain so Pat went out and got coffee and some breakfast and I started … Continue reading Button work →
• Buttons, buttons everywhere (5/22/2022) - Sunday, May 22, 2022 I finished my little gifts this morning and moved on to a card this afternoon. I’ll be working with buttons on this one so there is plenty of hand sewing to do. Don’t ask me how I ended up with so many buttons of one colour in my button drawer because … Continue reading Buttons, buttons everywhere →
• Squirrel (5/21/2022) - Saturday, May 21, 2022 Why can’t it be morning all day long. I’m so motivated in the morning to get things done and I have more (not necessarily better) ideas than I do later in the day. This morning started with a look at my task list. As I went down the list I saw … Continue reading Squirrel →
• An outside day (5/20/2022) - Friday, May 20, 2022 It was a lovely morning and I headed out the back to sandwich my quilts. It took me all friggin’ day but I have three done. It was an added bonus that just as I was taking down my tables it started to spit rain. I’m glad I didn’t give up … Continue reading An outside day →
• How strange (5/19/2022) - Thursday, May 19, 2022 Another quiet day upstairs. I decided this morning that I was going to catch up on my blackwork projects. I sorted myself out last night on the Botanical Garden and got it caught up to date (until tomorrow). This morning I did two sections of the Peppermint Purple project and I’m … Continue reading How strange →
• Keeping our distance (5/18/2022) - Wednesday, May 18, 2022 Yesterday when I told the Guild President I would be the Chair for the Program Committee she gave me a big hug – it felt like a reward for saying Yes. But last evening she called to tell me she was sorry for that hug as she had just tested positive … Continue reading Keeping our distance →
• I can see clearly now (5/17/2022) - Tuesday, May 17, 2022 The company I called about getting our gutter cleaned were fully booked for two months but they suggested another company. I called them yesterday but heard nothing back from them. They called this morning and said they could do the job right away. Not only did they clean gutters but they … Continue reading I can see clearly now →
• Back to the yard (5/16/2022) - Monday, May 16, 2022 After two days of being very unmotivated to do much of anything (I did some of my hand stitching but that was about it) I got back out in the yard today. I thought it might be too cold but after walking up to the letter box I realized there was … Continue reading Back to the yard →
• Relaxing (5/14/2022) - Saturday, May 14, 2022 Pat left the house this morning about 7:30 and I’ve pretty much relaxed the entire day. He was playing a set at the Lund Shellfish Festival and doing sound for all the other performers. It is a typical Shellfish Festival day – cold and rainy. I got the binding attached to … Continue reading Relaxing →
• Disaster averted (5/13/2022) - Friday, May 13, 2022 I had a good, but busy, day yesterday. Yoga in the morning went fine. It was absolutely pouring rain when I went to the car and still pouring when I went from the car into the Hall. As I was getting unpacked the instructor was taking mats and blocks into the … Continue reading Disaster averted →
• Saved by the rain (5/11/2022) - Wednesday, May 11, 2022 I worked in the yard for most of the morning but when it started to spit rain I decided to come inside. I got the lavender trimmed back and that was mainly what I wanted to get off the list. I pulled a bit of bindweed, trimmed some dead branches off … Continue reading Saved by the rain →
• Too little or too much (5/10/2022) - Tuesday, May 10, 2022 I can’t seem to get it right. Usually I take way too many projects to the Guild bee and bring many of them home untouched. The last couple of weeks though I haven’t taken enough to fill my time. Last week I had some Guild scraps to organize but today I … Continue reading Too little or too much →
• In the dirt (5/9/2022) - Monday, May 9, 2022 I had gift cards from two of my girls for Mother’s Day so first thing this morning we headed out to Canadian Tire to spend some money. We picked out quite a few plants – marigolds, geraniums, coleus, and I don’t remember what else – as well as a hanging basket … Continue reading In the dirt →
• How big does the box need to be? (5/7/2022) - Saturday, May 7, 2022 I still have 37 items in my outstanding list of tasks but today I feel like I’m catching up. Many of the things on my list are ongoing and non-urgent – more of a reminder so I don’t forget about them. I started the day by doing a couple of decluttering … Continue reading How big does the box need to be? →
• A slow but productive day (5/6/2022) - Friday, May 6, 2022 My day yesterday was very busy but I enjoyed it all. I was surprised that I was able to keep up in the yoga class. The names for some of the poses were familiar but without the demonstrations I wouldn’t have had a clue how to do them. And I’m unlikely … Continue reading A slow but productive day →
• Cutting, cutting and more cutting (5/4/2022) - Wednesday, May 4, 2022 When I was getting organized for yesterday’s bee I didn’t think my two card tops would take all my time so I threw in a bag of 2.5″ strips from the fabric I brought home from the Guild’s scrappy weekend. I’m glad I did because my card tops were done long … Continue reading Cutting, cutting and more cutting →
• I did it! (5/2/2022) - Monday, May 2, 2022 My goal today was to get some cards finished and ready for the mail. It took all morning but I was able to get them to the post office in time to go out today. I also managed to get a bit of Hall work done. We have a meeting tomorrow … Continue reading I did it! →
• Good weekend (5/1/2022) - Sunday, May 1, 2022 There is nothing better than a weekend of sewing with the Guild. The workshop was intended for scrappy quilts and, since I hadn’t make any progress on my scrappy quilt challenge, I was please to have the specific time to finish it. When the project was done according to the pattern … Continue reading Good weekend →
• UFO Challenge – April (5/1/2022) - May 1, 2022 I’m pleased with my progress on my April challenges. I ended up with a finish for my April quilting challenge. This will be donated to the Guild’s Community Quilt program. The piecing challenge is done as far as I could take it. The blocks are finished but I’ll be shopping for fabric … Continue reading UFO Challenge – April →
• Catching up? (4/29/2022) - Friday, April 29, 2022 I was awake early this morning thinking of all the things I needed/wanted to get done today. Once my mind starts working there is no chance of any more sleep. My sewing room was a complete disaster from trying to sort out fabrics for the scrappy quilt I’m working on and … Continue reading Catching up? →
• Busy day (4/28/2022) - Thursday, April 27, 2022 I met with a renter at the Hall this morning so I was out the door early. She is teaching a Yoga for Seniors class on Thursday mornings, starting next week, and I’ve decided to join. We have quite a few yoga classes at the Hall but this is the first … Continue reading Busy day →
• First cut flowers of the year (4/27/2022) - Wednesday, April 26, 2022 I was out in the yard weeding again this morning. I never feel much like going out to the job but once I’m at it I can’t say I hate it. The alyssum and periwinkle seem to be doing well in their new spots and I have space cleared for a … Continue reading First cut flowers of the year →
• Just about right (4/26/2022) - Tuesday, April 25, 2022 After I went to bed last night I got thinking that maybe two Blocks of the Month weren’t enough to keep me busy for my day of sewing with the Guild. So I quickly found the pattern for the next block in my Happy Scrappy quilt. Again, having my scraps sorted … Continue reading Just about right →
• It was supposed to rain (4/25/2022) - Monday, April 25, 2022 I expected rain this morning and was looking forward to a full day in my sewing room. The sun was shining when I got up so, after walking up to the mail box, I started the yard work. I finished clearing the bed along the side of the house; the blueberries … Continue reading It was supposed to rain →
• Music and more music (4/24/2022) - Sunday, April 24, 2022 I finished my card this morning and got it ready for tomorrow’s mail. I did a bit of cleaning up and I should have started on my next round of cards but my Home Circle blocks were so close to being finished that I decided to finish them. While I worked … Continue reading Music and more music →
• Another yard day (4/23/2022) - Saturday, April 23, 2022 After my last day of yard work Pat bought me a pair of knee pads. They don’t help me get up off my hands and knees when I’m down on them but they sure do work to stop any sort of discomfort from kneeling on the ground. When I went out … Continue reading Another yard day →
• Two good days (4/22/2022) - Friday, April 22, 2022 I finished my flutter quilt yesterday so that is my quilting UFO off the list. I did a bit of the hand stitching in the morning, a bit while I waited to leave for my Thursday sewing session and a bit more yesterday evening. On my way to sewing I dropped … Continue reading Two good days →
• It’s a start (4/20/2022) - Wednesday, April 20, 2022 The timing had to be just right – sunny weather on a day when I didn’t have to go out anywhere. Today was that day and I worked in the yard all morning. I probably overdid it (but don’t I always) and my hands, wrists and back are feeling the pain. … Continue reading It’s a start →
• Short day (4/19/2022) - Tuesday, April 19, 2022 I had time this morning before leaving for the bee to sort out some patterns for my May cards. Can you believe that I have ten cards on my list? If I keep up with this months cards I’ll only have half a dozen left in my book to make. There … Continue reading Short day →
• I hear a ringing in my ears (4/18/2022) - Monday, April 18, 2022 The earrings I put on this morning leave a lovely tinkling in my ears when I move my head. That is one of the reasons I like them. The other is that they were a gift from the Thomases and, I was told, that Alex picked them out. I’m on my … Continue reading I hear a ringing in my ears →
• Happy Easter (4/17/2022) - Sunday, April 17, 2022 We had our dinner last night so tonight it is split pea and ham soup. I have been quilting all day and it is going well. Still lots more to do and I’m not thrilled with my quilting pattern but it is too late to take it out. Not only that, … Continue reading Happy Easter →
• The First Time I Said Goodbye (4/17/2022) - Author: Claire Allan After the death of her father Annabelle and her mother, Stella, make a spontaneous trip to Ireland. Stella hasn’t been back home since she moved to American almost 50 years previous and Stella has never met her family. But Stella hasn’t been entirely truthful about her reasons for returning or, in fact, … Continue reading The First Time I Said Goodbye →
• I’m not sold (4/16/2022) - Saturday, April 16, 2022 I really wanted to get a quilt sandwiched yesterday but it didn’t happen so I was determined to get it done today. It was chilly out this morning so while I waited for the temperature to warm up I finished off my last April card; I still need to finish hand … Continue reading I’m not sold →
• Finally … (4/15/2022) - Friday, April 15, 2022 ICBC called me yesterday afternoon when I was out. I didn’t get home until almost five so I wasn’t going to call them back but Pat said they were open 24×7 so I thought I’d try before supper. The wait was going to be 45 minutes and, since supper was ready, … Continue reading Finally … →
• A little excitement (4/14/2022) - Thursday, April 14, 2022 A little excitement goes a long way. Last night while I was at the Hall taking tickets someone backed into the front of my car. One of our ticket holders saw it happen and took photos as well as got the licence plate of the driver. The passenger in the vehicle … Continue reading A little excitement →
• One a penny, Two a penny (4/13/2022) - Wednesday, April 13, 2022 I was up and out the door early this morning so I could get the groceries I needed for my hot cross buns. The store wasn’t busy but I went to FreshCo and I have no clue where anything is. FreshCo is one of the few stores that has still arrows … Continue reading One a penny, Two a penny →
• It’s good to be home (4/12/2022) - Tuesday, April 12, 2022 It’s good to be home but I had a wonderful time in Calgary with the Burtons. There was never a shortage of cake that’s for sure. Gavin started the celebrations – he turned 15. Emma was next – turning 16. Her cake was perfect; she is self-taught on the guitar and … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• Almost ready (4/2/2022) - Saturday, April 2, 2022 I’m pretty much ready to go. I got everything sent out for the Hall board meeting on Monday – my opinions on some of the items on the agenda, some reminders of things people were supposed to have done so they can be reported on, and all the financials for last … Continue reading Almost ready →
• Enough (4/1/2022) - Friday, April 1, 2022 It was so exciting to see my new UFO projects this morning. In spite of travelling this month I may be able to get a couple of them done. I’ll be piecing a brand new project using the left-over fabric from my Farmer’s Daughter quilt. I have a donation quilt that … Continue reading Enough →
• UFO Challenge – March (3/31/2022) - March 31, 2022 Time to see how I made out on my March challenges – sadly no finishes but I did something on each one of them. I only got as far as sandwiching this one. In my own defence I got Kathryn’s Spring/Summer tablecloth done. I made good progress on this piecing project. I … Continue reading UFO Challenge – March →
• Do I remember how? (3/30/2022) - Wednesday, March 30, 2022 It’s been so long since I posted I’m hoping I still remember how to do it. At this point in my life though I think blogging and posting are muscle memories. We had a great week on Texada. The weather wasn’t as good as we’d have liked but at least we … Continue reading Do I remember how? →
• Squirrel (3/20/2022) - Sunday, March 20, 2022 I was so good about staying on track with my task list until after lunch. I got all my computer work done relatively quickly; I even had time to clean out a file and do some shredding. I reconciled my bank accounts and, as I was getting rid of a bunch … Continue reading Squirrel →
• Am I over the worst of it? (3/19/2022) - Saturday, March 19, 2022 My paper-pieced card is finished; I’ll take it to Texada to hand stitch the binding. It wasn’t easy but the freezer paper method is so slick. There were six sections to the card and I ended up doing three of them twice – a misplaced colour in two of them and … Continue reading Am I over the worst of it? →
• Rebuilding the Castle (3/18/2022) - Friday, March 18, 2022 One of my decluttering tasks today was to clear off my cutting table. It was several layers deep in fabrics and patterns so instead of tackling that I decided to do some prep work for Texada projects. I wanted to take the Guild’s blocks of the month; the first one was … Continue reading Rebuilding the Castle →
• Scattered (3/17/2022) - Thursday, March 17, 2022 I started my morning by sorting through more scraps. I don’t think that 1.5” bin is getting any smaller. I hadn’t unpacked my sewing machine from Tuesday’s sewing and I didn’t want to dig it out only to have to pack it up for today’s session so I decided I’d get … Continue reading Scattered →
• It’s like pulling weeds (3/16/2022) - Wednesday, March 16, 2022 Today should have been a relaxing day. I got my computer work done before lunch as well as some work for the Hall and my cleaning tasks. Next up was my hand stitching. I got a good start on the first one before deciding I should bake a cake so I … Continue reading It’s like pulling weeds →
• An easy day (3/15/2022) - Tuesday, March 15, 2022 Before heading off to quilting today I located a couple of pairs of knitting needles for new projects I hope to start tonight. I think they will both be shawls because the yarn requires some special care and I’m not sure a new mum would have the time for that. We’ll … Continue reading An easy day →
• It’s all about tomorrow (3/14/2022) - Monday, March 14, 2022 I spent some time this morning working on sorting my fabric. I managed to empty a basket and promptly moved it into the room across the hall to store my knitting/crochet donations in. I finished the last of the six scarves last night and they took up all the remaining room … Continue reading It’s all about tomorrow →
• Slow today (3/13/2022) - Sunday, March 13, 2022 Of course, with the time change, I started an hour later this morning. But that doesn’t really explain why I’ve had a hard time getting my energy going today. For a short (very short) period of time I thought I might get started quilting my March UFO but that didn’t happen. … Continue reading Slow today →
• It’s never easy (3/12/2022) - Saturday, March 12, 2022 I had a little bit of Hall work to do today but there were no computer-related tasks so I was ready to move on to something else early in the day. I cleaned out a couple of drawers in my sewing room and I had time before heading out for a … Continue reading It’s never easy →
• A quick one (3/11/2022) - Friday, March 11, 2022 Due to the changes in the Public Health Orders announced yesterday I had to spend some time this morning updating the Rental Agreement for the Hall. I’ve tried to make it generic enough that when the Orders change again (as I know they will on April 8) I won’t have many … Continue reading A quick one →
• Sewing and more sewing (3/10/2022) - Thursday, March 10, 2022 I must have thought about my Thursday tasks earlier because there was very little on the list this morning. I did a bit more accounting and sent off the Hall newsletter; there was still lots of time before my afternoon quilting date. Since I had almost finished the top for Kathryn’s … Continue reading Sewing and more sewing →
• Not quite enough time today (3/9/2022) - Wednesday, March 9, 2022 As expected my decluttering tasks took up more time than usual as I moved all my Tuesday tasks to Wednesday due to the bee starting up again. I did a bit of Pat’s accounting, I got a draft of the Hall newsletter done (although just now I’ve remembered something that needs … Continue reading Not quite enough time today →
• It was good to be back (3/8/2022) - Tuesday, March 8, 2022 I didn’t realize how much I’d missed the Tuesday bees until I went back today. So good to see everyone and also to see what they have been working on. I didn’t even mind having to come home and write up a blog post. I had another lesson on sandwiching with … Continue reading It was good to be back →
• Not a very productive day (3/7/2022) - Monday, March 7, 2022 I had a lovely long chat with the cousins this morning but, as usual, when Pat asked what was new I couldn’t think of anything to tell him. Do we really chat for 90 minutes and not have anything worth reporting on? I got my crocuses wrapped and into the mail … Continue reading Not a very productive day →
• Is it bedtime yet? (3/6/2022) - Sunday, March 6, 2022 I feel like I should be heading to bed or at least heading for a nap but I’m going to try and keep going until it really is bedtime. I was able to get started on my sandwiching before lunch. First up was Kathryn’s Spring/Summer tablecloth. I had trouble getting the … Continue reading Is it bedtime yet? →
• Not today (3/5/2022) - Saturday, March 5, 2022 It took until almost noon to finish my cleaning and decluttering tasks. One of my tasks was to clean out a drawer so I thought while Pat had his breakfast clearing out the recipe book drawer would be a good one to tackle. Turns out that even though we never use … Continue reading Not today →
• It didn’t take long (3/4/2022) - Friday, March 4, 2022 I don’t think I was in the Guild meeting room for more than ten minutes before I was put to work. I had said hello to a few friends and delivered a few things I had been collecting to a few other people. When the President caught my eye I knew … Continue reading It didn’t take long →
• Hello world – again! (3/3/2022) - Thursday, March 3, 2022 I’m heading back into the thick of it. Pat and I think that “this” is the best it is going to get on the Covid front so we’re moving back into society. Slowly and carefully choosing what we’ll do and how we’ll manage in larger groups. I was back to my … Continue reading Hello world – again! →
• Extra time (3/2/2022) - Wednesday, March 2, 2022 I ended up with extra time today after all my tasks were finished. Of course I had an early start so even before breakfast I had finished with some web updates. I had a couple of monthly decluttering tasks that took some time. I cleaned and oiled my sewing machines and … Continue reading Extra time →
• The numbers must be wrong (3/1/2022) - Tuesday, March 1, 2022 As of this morning I had more than 20 reminders on my task list – that can’t be right. Sadly it is; all of my April card reminders appeared on the list and then I had to add my UFO challenges for March. Then the UFO challenges I didn’t finish in … Continue reading The numbers must be wrong →
• End of the month madness (2/28/2022) - Monday, February 28, 2022 I can’t really say it caught me by surprise but I still have a few outstanding projects on the go for February. My quilting UFO was finished with time to spare (I’ll get it posted to my website tomorrow) but I didn’t do so well in some other areas. Oh well, … Continue reading End of the month madness →
• So little done (2/23/2022) - Wednesday, February 23, 2022 How can it be that I stitch all day long and have so little to show for it. I’m keeping up with the weekly designs on my Peppermint Purple project but so far today I’ve only managed to finish two blocks on my Botanical Garden project. I’m not enjoying that one … Continue reading So little done →
• A cold morning/day (2/22/2022) - Tuesday, February 22, 2022 I headed out to the post office just after nine this morning and my car said the temperature was only -1; it felt cold too even with my scarf and gloves on. Kathryn said it was -31 there today without adding in the wind chill so I know I shouldn’t complain … Continue reading A cold morning/day →
• A lazy afternoon (2/21/2022) - Monday, February 21, 2022 I didn’t plan it this way but I’ve had a very lazy afternoon. I wasn’t able to take my donations to the thrift shop so that was one easy thing off my decluttering list. The other tasks on my list were computer-related so sitting with my coffee and working through them … Continue reading A lazy afternoon →
• Live music today (2/20/2022) - Sunday, February 20, 2022 I was up early this morning and had all my decluttering tasks finished by nine. I don’t have any cleaning tasks on Sundays and it appears that my Sunday decluttering tasks are mainly monthly. I got an early start on my quilting as I didn’t want the day to disappear, as … Continue reading Live music today →
• It’s like watching the Olympics (2/19/2022) - Saturday, February 19, 2022 We were able to watch Taylor’s competition via Zoom late this afternoon. Today’s discipline was on the trampolines – a mini to a regular and then just the regular trampoline. My goodness that girl can bounce. I tried to snap a photo but she just moves too fast. She’ll compete again … Continue reading It’s like watching the Olympics →
• The Sound of Music (2/18/2022) - Friday, February 18, 2022 I seldom listen to music while I work in my studio but I spent part of the morning copying some CDs onto my computer. On a computer upgrade I lost my CD player so a number of discs sat on a shelf collecting dust behind my monitor. I brought up our … Continue reading The Sound of Music →
• No sewing today! (2/17/2022) - Thursday, February 17, 2022 After three days of intense sewing with Stacia and Deloise I didn’t even turn my sewing machine on today; furthermore, I didn’t even want to. But we had a good session and what didn’t get done this time around will wait for our next session in March. We are all very … Continue reading No sewing today! →
• Reducing (2/13/2022) - Sunday, February 13, 2022 One of the tasks on my list today was to sort through my sewing notions. I did this a month ago when it first came up and it really didn’t need to be done again. But I had added a note to myself about a couple of areas that could be … Continue reading Reducing →
• Down a rabbit hole (2/12/2022) - Saturday, February 12, 2022 Things were going very well and I was ticking off items on my task list for today – I worked on the Guild archives for half an hour; I worked on my own website for half an hour. Next up was to clean a drawer. I know I’m avoiding a couple … Continue reading Down a rabbit hole →
• Just get started (2/11/2022) - Friday, February 11, 2022 I planned to start quilting on my May quilt today and continue over the weekend. It took me all morning to get through my task list because several Hall items came up that needed to be dealt with and it was lunch before I started my cleaning tasks for the day. … Continue reading Just get started →
• Going, going, gone (2/10/2022) - Thursday, February 10, 2022 I had quite a few half-hour tasks on my list this morning and it took until almost noon for me to get them done. One of the tasks had me back to sorting fabric in my cabinet. I never would have thought I was a fan of orange but apparently I … Continue reading Going, going, gone →
• Not today (2/9/2022) - Wednesday, February 9, 2022 As part of my decluttering process I filled a couple more bags with clothes from my closet to add to the books I wanted to take to the thrift store. I checked the websites before I left – MMC was open but the Salvation Army shop wasn’t accepting donations until Thursday. … Continue reading Not today →
• It’s almost too pretty (2/7/2022) - Monday, February 7, 2022 I wanted to get some of our recycling done today – thrift store and bottle depot. I took a box of quilting books to the thrift store along with another bag of “goodies” but they wouldn’t accept the books. The gentleman collecting the donations volunteered to carry the box back to … Continue reading It’s almost too pretty →
• Archives (2/6/2022) - Sunday, February 6, 2022 I’ve spent a lot of time over the past months archiving the Guild’s blog posts. The blog started in 2008 and I took over in June of 2011. We were short of space on our WordPress site and I was tired of having to download photos and posts one by one … Continue reading Archives →
• All I need is a sunny day (2/5/2022) - Saturday, February 5, 2022 I knew this morning that I was going to have to get my car out to charge up the battery but when I went out I didn’t even have enough juice to unlock the doors. Pat gave me a boost (we’re getting much more efficient at it) and I was on … Continue reading All I need is a sunny day →
• I’m procrastinating (2/4/2022) - Friday, February 4, 2022 I made a couple more blocks for my Stay at Home sampler and I finished the Alias Grace block I cut out yesterday. I’m going to redo one of my Alias Grace blocks; I try to do them as close to the photo in the book but sometimes I have to … Continue reading I’m procrastinating →
• This was a busy day (2/3/2022) - Thursday, February 3, 2022 I ended the day yesterday with eight on-going items on my to-do list; this morning when I opened the app I had 18 items waiting for attention. I was able to see that some of the decluttering items could be combined into one task and there were a few monthly tasks … Continue reading This was a busy day →
• Favourite day of the week (2/2/2022) - Wednesday, February 2, 2022 If the first of the month is my favourite day of the month, Wednesday is surely my favourite day of the week. A new Peppermint Purple block is released and it is relatively easy to get it done and off the list in a day. I’ve carried on with the border … Continue reading Favourite day of the week →
• Three new challenges (2/1/2022) - Tuesday, February 1, 2022 My favourite day of the month – new quilting challenges. If I were to follow the “rules” I’d be picking one (of twelve) UFOs to work on during the month. This year I picked twelve piecing UFOs, twelve quilting UFOs and twelve scrappy UFOs. Last month worked out well for me … Continue reading Three new challenges →
• I think a celebration is in order (1/31/2022) - Monday, January 31, 2022 For the first time in a long time (maybe forever) all of the tasks on my reminder list are finished. I’ll start with a clean slate going into February but I don’t expect this phenomenon to last long; I’ll have three more challenges hitting the list tomorrow as well as another … Continue reading I think a celebration is in order →
• A month of Sundays (1/30/2022) - Sunday, January 30, 2022 I was very determined to get to the bottom of the pile of paper on my desktop today. I had a file folder full it things I wanted to get into the mail to various family members and once that was done my pile was less inclined to topple over. I … Continue reading A month of Sundays →
• On task? (1/29/2022) - Saturday, January 29, 2022 I spent all my sewing time yesterday working on a card – one card – and I didn’t get it finished until this morning. I now have two cards finished and waiting for the binding – I’ll stitch that on this afternoon before supper. I realized the third January card that … Continue reading On task? →
• Down to four (1/27/2022) - Thursday, January 27, 2022 I’m down to just four tasks on my list – I’m not sure that has ever happened before. Three of the tasks are for February cards (one top is already done) and the other is my scrappy challenge for January. I cleared out more scraps today and spent half an hour … Continue reading Down to four →
• An early report (1/26/2022) - Wednesday, January 26, 2022 I’m checking in early today. This morning my decluttering task had me back in my scrap bin. I could spend all day every day working at managing my scraps (Mount Scrapmore as some in the group call it). I had the feeling that I was just moving scraps from one bin … Continue reading An early report →
• A relatively easy day (1/25/2022) - Tuesday, January 25, 2022 I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that it was an easy day; normally I would be out stitching with the Guild on a Tuesday. Even though they have started the Tuesday sessions again I’m holding off for a little longer. I’ve also cancelled my Thursday sessions. I said to Pat the … Continue reading A relatively easy day →
• Quilting is done (1/24/2022) - Monday, January 24, 2022 The quilting is done but I haven’t accomplished much else. All of the thrift shops were either closed or don’t accept donations on Monday so my piles are piling up – not a good look for my decluttering. Last night when I talked to Christy she mentioned that Taylor was “into” … Continue reading Quilting is done →
• Have I created a monster? (1/23/2022) - Sunday, January 23, 2022 As I’ve been busy decluttering Pat has kept up with the areas I’m going through. We both think we are able to see the results in the house – at least Pat is smart enough to say he can see the results! Yesterday when I passed the filing cabinet on to … Continue reading Have I created a monster? →
• Blocks Done (1/22/2022) - Saturday, January 22, 2022 I accomplished several thirty-minute jobs this morning and I’m happy that so far I’m able to keep up with everything. The first reminder today was some Guild work and I spent all of my thirty minutes working on our blog archives. They are almost ready to be proof-read and put on … Continue reading Blocks Done →
• Clearing out my space (1/21/2022) - Friday, January 21, 2022 Today was the last day of my sewing room declutter challenge. Many of the tasks I’ll be repeating every week or month until I have the tasks complete. Today we were to be clearing out our bins. The leader specifically said we were to take out our garbage bin and donate … Continue reading Clearing out my space →
• Progress? (1/20/2022) - Thursday, January 20, 2022 I had quite a few decluttering tasks on my list today but I managed to get them all done. Well not done, but they each had thirty minutes of my time. Somewhere about this time last year I made a note to myself to clean my filing cabinet. When I cleared … Continue reading Progress? →
• A change of pace (1/19/2022) - Wednesday, January 19, 2022 It was an intense two-day session with Stacia and Deloise and I was so tired last night I went to bed shortly after eight. I managed to stay awake and read until almost ten and then slept right through to this morning. The first day of sewing was a group project. … Continue reading A change of pace →
• One by one (1/16/2022) - Sunday, January 16, 2022 My decluttering tasks today were minimal because I’d taken care of my kits yesterday. I remembered a few more UFOs that I needed to add to my list. Two of them are projects I’ll be working on with Stacia and Deloise over the next two days but I already know neither … Continue reading One by one →
• Over and above (1/15/2022) - Saturday, January 15, 2022 I have a lot of computer tasks that happen in the middle of the month so I started my day working on those. I had a sewing room declutter task as well as a general declutter task so they were next on my list. I knew this week in the sewing … Continue reading Over and above →
• It’s a start (1/14/2022) - Friday, January 14, 2022 Today was a catch up day for my decluttering. I had a lot of things I could have picked to do but several of the tasks I hadn’t completed I have already added into my weekly schedule. The one task I didn’t finish yesterday was sorting the bags for the thrift … Continue reading It’s a start →
• Divested (1/13/2022) - Thursday, January 13, 2022 I stayed up until almost midnight last night watching the watering hole. As is our habit, just before I’m ready to quit for the night we take a quick look at the webcam. Last night there was all sorts of activity – the feral horses, the Gemsbok, some Springboks, a couple … Continue reading Divested →
• My favourite day of the week (1/12/2022) - Wednesday, January 12, 2022 Wednesday is hand stitching day and I look forward to it all week. But first I had to take care of a bit of cleaning and decluttering. Today’s specific decluttering task for the sewing room was to clear out electronics that are no longer in use. I don’t have any sewing-related … Continue reading My favourite day of the week →
• Sewing Day (1/11/2022) - Tuesday, January 11, 2022 Because I would normally be at the Guild bee on a Tuesday I hadn’t scheduled any cleaning tasks for the day. Since I was home though I did a few loads of laundry just to keep up. My decluttering task was to sort through my scissors and rotary cutters. I put … Continue reading Sewing Day →
• Another river approaching (1/10/2022) - Monday, January 10, 2022 We didn’t wake up to rain this morning but it made an appearance not long into the day. Apparently we have another atmospheric river happening between now and Thursday. I’m thankful it isn’t snow but really, enough is enough. I hoped to get some bags out to the thrift shop today … Continue reading Another river approaching →
• Watching for wildlife (1/9/2022) - Sunday, January 9, 2022 Pat watches some odd things in the evening after I go to bed. Often they are YouTube videos on the music equipment he has and occasionally he’ll watch various lava flows from volcanoes around the world. But the other night he switched to something completely different – a web cam in … Continue reading Watching for wildlife →
• On pins and needles (1/8/2022) - Saturday, January 8, 2022 No, I’m not anxiously awaiting anything – well maybe an end to this winter weather. Sorting out my pins and needles was the decluttering task for the day. If you had asked I would have said nothing needed to be changed but as I was “just making sure” I found a … Continue reading On pins and needles →
• One thing leads to another (1/7/2022) - Friday, January 7, 2022 Last week in my cleaning challenge I cleaned up the laundry room – I put away winter coats that I hope we won’t need again, sorted out the recycling and generally tidied up. I had a cylindrical bag that I made that I stored plastic bags in. I don’t remember the … Continue reading One thing leads to another →
• A full day in my sewing room (1/6/2022) - Thursday, January 6, 2022 As expected, the snow arrived last night. It was a winter wonderland again this morning and although it is settling it is far from gone. I thought we’d get more rain today than we did. It is windy out now and if we get rain in the night we should be … Continue reading A full day in my sewing room →
• It was Christmas all over again! (1/5/2022) - Wednesday, January 5, 2022 We had some snow overnight but we are expecting even more tonight. There was a bit of snow that came down just after lunch and the temperature is low enough that everything is still white. When I looked out the patio door before I went to bed last night there were … Continue reading It was Christmas all over again! →
• Thirty minutes (1/4/2022) - Tuesday, January 4, 2022 What can you get done in thirty minutes? I’m taking my decluttering guidelines and putting them to work on other projects I have in my task list. I spent half an hour working on some Hall stuff; I didn’t get it finished but I think I’ll be able to wrap it … Continue reading Thirty minutes →
• Waste of my time (1/3/2022) - Monday, January 3, 2020 I had a couple of errands I wanted to take care of before I started on my task list for the day. I have a package to get in the mail and yesterday when Pat and I were talking I expected the Post Office would be closed today. I checked their … Continue reading Waste of my time →
• It’s hard to keep up (1/2/2022) - Sunday, January 2, 2022 I woke up this morning to the sound of dripping water. I was happy to know that the rain had arrived and the snow was melting. I didn’t go back to sleep but then I realized that the drip was a lot closer than outside. When I got up to investigate … Continue reading It’s hard to keep up →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2022) - January 1, 2022 It’s going to take a bit of time to get used to typing 2022. I didn’t make it to midnight yesterday although Pat did and I missed a fireworks display down by the pier. I hadn’t seen any announcements that it was happening and we don’t know who was setting them off. … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• Year-end Review (12/31/2021) - Friday, December 31, 2021 I’m almost running out of time for my year-end review. I may not stay up until midnight but I still have a lot of year-end things to do in my sewing space before I’m ready for the New Year – and tidying up isn’t one of them! Looking back I didn’t … Continue reading Year-end Review →
• Ready to go (12/21/2021) - Tuesday, December 21, 2021 I just put the lock on my suitcase and I’m ready to go – vaccine passports packed, some stitching, my Kindle, my phone, a few clothes – I just need to log on and do our check-in and seat selection. Without anything specific to do today I sort of floated around … Continue reading Ready to go →
• The Mouse is in the House (12/20/2021) - Monday, December 20, 2021 Last night Christy asked about the Christmas mouse and I had to admit that I hadn’t unpacked it. She suggested the mouse was probably in the box wondering why it hadn’t seen the light of day. I looked for the mouse today in the Christmas boxes I have in the bedroom … Continue reading The Mouse is in the House →
• Done (12/19/2021) - Sunday, December 19, 2021 I figured out a way to make use of those tiny cards I mentioned yesterday. It took some trial and error but I now have a dozen cards ready for next year. I even cut up some of my Christmas scraps into sizes that I can use for a scrappy quilt … Continue reading Done →
• I need a better way (12/18/2021) - Saturday, December 18, 2021 When I still thought I had time to send out more hand-made cards I had a dozen patterns cut and ready to sew. I never got to them but I decided that rather than put them away in pieces I would sew them together. These pieces are small – each one … Continue reading I need a better way →
• Coffee’s ready (12/17/2021) - Friday, December 17, 2021 The coffee was ready to be poured when I got up this morning. A week or so ago I started using the programming feature on the coffee pot. It took some trials but I finally sorted out the right time to program the machine so the coffee was ready at 7:30, … Continue reading Coffee’s ready →
• It is Thursday, right? (12/16/2021) - Thursday, December 16, 2021 I headed off to my Thursday sewing a little early but only by about 15 minutes. I arrived before Jessie; I knew she wasn’t there yet because her car wasn’t in the lot. When I let myself into the sewing studio all was quiet and dark, but that isn’t unusual because … Continue reading It is Thursday, right? →
• A stitchy day (12/15/2021) - Wednesday, December 15, 2021 Now that all my Christmas prep is done I was delighted to get back to my regular schedule – a cross stitch Wednesday. I was behind three clues on my Peppermint Purple project and I got them done before stopping for lunch. After lunch I made the repairs on that Community … Continue reading A stitchy day →
• Christmas Prep – Done (12/14/2021) - Tuesday, December 14, 2021 I didn’t have much hand stitching to do today after all. I came upstairs at the end of the night to get the binding attached to that quilt but found that it needed more work before I could bind it because the backing was a bit short on the side I … Continue reading Christmas Prep – Done →
• Timing is everything (12/13/2021) - Monday, December 13, 2021 I wanted to sort out some hand sewing for tomorrow’s bee as I have an appointment in the middle of the morning and I didn’t want to take my machine and all the gear if I wasn’t going to have a full day of sewing. I finished off the last birthday … Continue reading Timing is everything →
• That’s a relief (12/12/2021) - Sunday, December 12, 2021 I had two things on today’s to-do list and they were both done before we had lunch. That should have left some time for cleaning but instead I did some website updates and got some Christmas cards ready for the mail. I also got a birthday parcel ready to mail tomorrow. … Continue reading That’s a relief →
• De-Stressing (12/11/2021) - Saturday, December 11, 2021 I woke up this morning in a tizzy because I could see no way to accomplish everything I had on my to-do list for today. More cards, some cleaning, and some decorating both inside and outside. I’ve been following a blog that is meant to lead you in decluttering (or divesting … Continue reading De-Stressing →
• Almost there (12/10/2021) - Friday, December 10, 2021 I got four more packages into the mail today so I’m almost done. I have a couple of birthday presents that need to be sent before Christmas but one is waiting for a card. I also have one more Christmas gift that hasn’t arrived on my doorstep yet. If necessary they … Continue reading Almost there →
• Dang it (12/8/2021) - Wednesday, December 8, 2021 I’ve almost finished the last of my hardanger (that isn’t really hardanger) projects. I purchased the series of lessons a few years ago when we spent Christmas in Victoria. There is a beautiful needlework shop in Trounce Alley; I have purchased several projects from there but I think these are the … Continue reading Dang it →
• I thought it was going to be easy (12/7/2021) - Tuesday, December 7, 2021 I had just a few more hardanger stitches to add to one of my cards and then I thought I’d be home free with just some cross stitching to do. Don’t get me wrong, I can make mistakes in cross stitch but it is less likely and usually easier to fix … Continue reading I thought it was going to be easy →
• Snow (12/6/2021) - Monday, December 6, 2021 We had snow last night. In any other province in Canada we’d likely say we had a skiff of snow but not here! There was about an inch of snow covering the top of the table on the deck. The plows and sanders were out early and had the road cleared … Continue reading Snow →
• Back in Hardanger Hell (12/5/2021) - Sunday, December 5, 2021 I got a few cards made this morning and a package wrapped for the mail. I thought I might go out today but since everything I was going to do today could wait for tomorrow I decided to spend the afternoon stitching. I’m back to one of my hardanger projects and … Continue reading Back in Hardanger Hell →
• Cleaning Up (12/4/2021) - Saturday, December 4, 2021 Oh what a mess I had after a Thursday stitching day, a 2-day Guild weekend, a Tuesday stitching day and then 2-days of sewing with Stacia and Deloise. When I started the day there was barely any clean space on any of my surfaces or on the floor. It took until … Continue reading Cleaning Up →
• Another parcel gone (12/1/2021) - Wednesday, December 1, 2021 It took me all morning to finish the card I was working on. I’ve come to realize that it isn’t just me regarding the issues I’ve had; the two charts are definitely out of whack. I’m going to stick with the smaller chart as I believe it is the more correct … Continue reading Another parcel gone →
• Frustrating (11/29/2021) - Monday, November 29, 2021 I haven’t had a very productive day but you probably won’t agree when I let you know everything that did get done. I got my hair cut this morning and before my appointment I picked up the last few things on my Christmas list, plus a couple of things that hadn’t … Continue reading Frustrating →
• Who knew? (11/28/2021) - Sunday, November 28, 2021 I was up early and got most of my sewing supplies packed and ready for stitching with the Guild; I say most because I forgot a few things that I needed but was able to borrow from friends. I worked again on my 3-Yard quilt. I thought I might get it … Continue reading Who knew? →
• Missing targets (11/27/2021) - Saturday, November 27, 2021 I fully intended to get back to my appliqué stitching last night after supper but there are two new seasons of Blacklist and I’m afraid that and my knitting won out. I managed to get a hat and scarf set finished so I still felt like I accomplished something. The plan … Continue reading Missing targets →
• Running out of time (11/26/2021) - Friday, November 26, 2021 I finished up the last (I think) of my Christmas sewing this morning. I moved on to doing some cards until mid-afternoon. We have two days of Guild sewing coming up tomorrow and Sunday; the focus is on Community Quilts (donations). I have a quilt cut out and I’ll sew at … Continue reading Running out of time →
• Just another stormy day (11/25/2021) - Thursday, November 25, 2021 We had a storm last night and the winds were probably stronger than they often are but it wasn’t the raging storm I expected. The first two ferries out of Comox were cancelled this morning, as were the first two from Texada. It has been windy and rainy all day today … Continue reading Just another stormy day →
• He’s back (11/24/2021) - Wednesday, November 24, 2021 We watched the second season of The Tiger King last night. It isn’t as spell-binding as the first season but equally sleazy. All the original characters are back; the good news was that some of the exotic animals were taken away from a couple of the farms and the owners of … Continue reading He’s back →
• Almost (11/23/2021) - Tuesday, November 23, 2021 I dropped the first of my 12-Days packages at the Post Office this morning. I thought I was quite early in getting them away but the clerk asked right away if I was sending Christmas gifts. It wasn’t crowded first thing this morning but I noticed they are again limiting the … Continue reading Almost →
• Power Outage – Again (11/22/2021) - Monday, November 22, 2021 I was busy at my computer finishing up a few last-minute things for my 12-Day packages when the power flickered off. It came on right away so I continued what I was doing. The power went completely off a short time later but fortunately I had just saved the document I … Continue reading Power Outage – Again →
• Stitching and songs (11/21/2021) - Sunday, November 21, 2021 I spent some of my morning getting the binding on birthday cards so I’d have some hand stitching to do while I attended the Virtual Sunday Song Circle. I had some extra time so worked on a cross stitch Christmas card. There was good attendance at the Song Circle and with … Continue reading Stitching and songs →
• Making a list (11/20/2021) - Saturday, November 20, 2021 I mentioned to Pat this morning that I was going to one of the grocery stores and if he needed anything he should put it on the list. I also wanted to make a stop at the recycle depot. When I saw the length of the list I suggested he come … Continue reading Making a list →
• Frustrating (11/19/2021) - Friday, November 19, 2021 I spent most of the morning wishing I lived in a larger city, if only for the space of a few hours. I was trying to order a birthday gift and a Christmas gift but there were problems. Christy offered to do my shopping for me but I really wanted to … Continue reading Frustrating →
• Divesting (11/17/2021) - Wednesday, November 17, 2021 I have two thoughts today on divesting. I was attempting to put a backing on one of the hand stitching projects I worked on when I was on Texada. This piece was to be the test for several cards I have made/want to make for Christmas. I did a bit of … Continue reading Divesting →
• Oops (11/16/2021) - Tuesday, November 16, 2021 I started my day with a trip to the Post Office to mail a package and then I made a stop at the library to return a book. I received a notice this morning that I had two books due back today; I had finished one of them and was able … Continue reading Oops →
• No finishes (11/15/2021) - Monday, November 15, 2021 You would think that after four days I’d have at least one finish to show for myself but I don’t. I spent a lovely long weekend on Texada stitching on my own at the studio. I missed being at the Retreat but I made the right decision when I saw some … Continue reading No finishes →
• Packed (11/10/2021) - Wednesday, November 10, 2021 I went grocery shopping this morning but not until eight. I knew the store would be busier and there were a lot more cars in the lot but my preferred parking spot was still free. The store itself didn’t seem busier but I had to join a short line-up to check … Continue reading Packed →
• Back to the Bee (11/9/2021) - Tuesday, November 9, 2021 It was just like I never left almost two years ago. Except I had trouble figuring out what I should be packing to sew for the entire day. I did quite well but forgot a couple of things – a sewing needle, an extra foot for my machine and my rotary … Continue reading Back to the Bee →
• Boosted (11/8/2021) - Monday, November 8, 2021 There was a bit of a line up at the Rec Centre this morning when I checked in for my Covid Booster. I couldn’t help but notice how old everyone (except me) looked. Then I realized that from behind me perhaps there were others that were thinking the same thing, not … Continue reading Boosted →
• Fall back (11/7/2021) - Sunday, November 7, 2021 Because of the time change I was awake at five this morning; not unusual had it been six (the way it was yesterday) but five was just too early to start my day. I didn’t sleep much after that but I dozed on and off until about six-thirty when I got … Continue reading Fall back →
• Ahead of the game (11/6/2021) - Saturday, November 6, 2021 I spent most of the morning working on Pat’s accounting. He sent me the information I needed a few days ago but I kept putting it off. I’m not sure if I thought the accounting fairies would come and do it for me or if I thought maybe my computer would … Continue reading Ahead of the game →
• Stepping away (11/5/2021) - Friday, November 5, 2021 Where have I been for the past week? Right here but very busy. I spent the better part of three days sewing with Stacia and Deloise. I finished two projects so it was a productive time. I also got in a visit to the Guild’s new meeting and sewing place. It … Continue reading Stepping away →
• Happy Hallowe’en (10/31/2021) - October 31, 2021 I found a package of “melty beads”; the non-dollar store brand would have been called Perler beads. I looked for and found some Hallowe’en images online and was able to copy them although I had to change a few of the colours in order to make the patterns work with the beads … Continue reading Happy Hallowe’en →
• Perfect weather (10/31/2021) - Sunday, October 31, 2021 It’s perfect weather today for all the Trick or Treaters – sunny, warm and no wind. In fact it was so nice that I went out and worked in the yard for most of the morning. I had a lot of things that I wanted to get done but, of course, … Continue reading Perfect weather →
• Slow day (10/30/2021) - Saturday, October 30, 2021 I wasn’t up until almost ten this morning. I was sick during the night and awake for almost two hours; I ended up taking a gravel and that wipes me out completely. Needless to say I was dragging for a lot of the day but there were a few accomplishments. I … Continue reading Slow day →
• Unfocussed (10/29/2021) - Friday, October 29, 2021 I had a hard time getting down to business this morning. While chatting with Stacia and Deloise about our upcoming sewing-together session we decided that Deloise would teach us her technique for paperless paper-piecing. I tried it a long time ago without much success but maybe I just didn’t have the … Continue reading Unfocussed →
• Sewing day (10/28/2021) - Thursday, October 28, 2021 Back to Thursday sewing today. I enjoy these afternoons even if I don’t get a lot done. I was working on my Guild mystery but didn’t get as far as I would have liked. I’m making 16-patch blocks out of several different strips but making sure none of the same fabrics … Continue reading Sewing day →
• Not a bad day’s work (10/27/2021) - Wednesday, October 27, 2021 I was up early and while I waited for my coffee to be done I added a few stitches to my October stitch along. Pat had an early appointment at the lab so I sat and stitched until he left. When I went to the fridge for some cream for my … Continue reading Not a bad day’s work →
• A quieter day (10/26/2021) - Tuesday, October 26, 2021 I was surprised last night when I came upstairs about ten to see the Comox ferry at the dock. Normally at that time the ferry would be docked for the night in Comox. I guess they saw enough of a break in the storm to make a very late crossing. By … Continue reading A quieter day →
• The storm continues (10/25/2021) - Monday, October 25, 2021 It didn’t seem like much of a storm overnight – we heard the wind but no more than we often do. The power fluctuation yesterday afternoon triggered a sensor in our furnace and it stopped working. It wasn’t until the house started feeling a bit cool that we checked into it. … Continue reading The storm continues →
• Stormy weather (10/24/2021) - Sunday, October 24, 2021 The storm has arrived – apparently the worst in BC history. I was out this morning while it was raining lightly but it is just past noon and the wind is whipping the leaves off the trees and sending them every which way but down to the ground. The rain is … Continue reading Stormy weather →
• It’s a theory (10/23/2021) - October 23, 2021 Just as things were starting to open up this summer a friend was visiting and he mentioned that they had had company at their house and he said, after so long with no visits, he found it hard to keep conversations going. I’m working on a theory that just might fit his … Continue reading It’s a theory →
• I need to get out more (10/21/2021) - Thursday, October 21, 2021 I loaded my donation yarn in the car when I brought it in from the shed the other day. I was all set to deliver it to the Senior Centre this morning but when I went out to start the car I didn’t have enough battery power to turn the engine … Continue reading I need to get out more →
• Slow going (10/20/2021) - Wednesday, October 20, 2021 Today was a rare day when I had reminders for both the Hall and the Guild, and neither one of them was quick to do. I was looking forward to my cross stitching day and although I’ve been at it for most of the day I’m not as far along as … Continue reading Slow going →
• A little more productive (10/19/2021) - Tuesday, October 19, 2021 I was a little more productive today and finished the three major items on my list. I even had time for a few digressions. Although it wasn’t on my list I shifted a few papers around on the shelves of my computer desk. Every time I went to print something I … Continue reading A little more productive →
• Less than I planned (10/18/2021) - Monday, October 18, 2021 I had a lot planned for my day and managed to get very little of it done. In part because things took longer than expected and I ran off in a few unplanned directions. After my sewing weekend I had a bit of paper work and computer work to get done. … Continue reading Less than I planned →
• Where do I start? (10/17/2021) - Sunday, October 17, 2021 It’s been a day or two but I’ll try to get back into the habit again. I had my first Thursday sewing day in over 18 months. There are only two others in the group, all are all double vaccinated and we sit at separate tables. I was over-cautious and wore … Continue reading Where do I start? →
• A pretty good day (10/13/2021) - Wednesday, October 13, 2021 This was the first cross stitch day since I’ve added it to my schedule and it has been pretty nice over all. I got the next step in my Peppermint Purple stitch-along delivered this morning and had it done before noon. I moved on to my October stitch-along but I didn’t … Continue reading A pretty good day →
• Back to work (10/12/2021) - Tuesday, October 12, 2021 I spent the weekend away from my computer. Except for checking my mail and responding where I absolutely had to I did no work at my desk. So it is no surprise that today I’ve spent most of the day sitting at my computer. I managed to get my flagged e-mails … Continue reading Back to work →
• Happy Thanksgiving … again! (10/11/2021) - Monday, October 11, 2021 We should have been enjoying the day and the dinner with Elizabeth and family but that didn’t work out so well for us. Instead we had a nice chat and we’ll be eating our turkey dinners in separate provinces. Fingers crossed for Christmas. I got my baking done this morning – … Continue reading Happy Thanksgiving … again! →
• Happy Thanksgiving (10/10/2021) - Sunday, October 10, 2021 It’s been a long time since we celebrated Thanksgiving on Monday rather than Sunday but that’s what we are doing this year. Pat has very few and very short breaks in his workshop; he barely has time to eat let alone appreciate a turkey dinner. I started my quilting last night … Continue reading Happy Thanksgiving →
• Lazy day (10/9/2021) - Saturday, October 9, 2021 It feels like I’m having a lazy day but I’ve actually accomplished a lot – it must be because I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve been doing. I was out early to get groceries and home before the wind and rain hit. I had a bit of a problem at the grocery store … Continue reading Lazy day →
• More fabric (10/8/2021) - Friday, October 8, 2021 The meeting last night went well; it was so nice to see everyone. We were all masked but I wasn’t happy with the distancing. I was at the membership table so only near to one person and we were at opposite ends of the table. I understand that someone else is … Continue reading More fabric →
• I found it! (10/7/2021) - Thursday, October 7, 2021 I continued with my cleaning/organizing this morning – the big job was clearing off my cutting table. In the past I have stored scraps according to their width but recently I switched to storing them by colour. Every now and again, when I’m looking for something in particular, one of the … Continue reading I found it! →
• Lost and found (10/6/2021) - Wednesday, October 6, 2021 Not long ago I purchased a new cross stitch pattern and I knew I was going to need to buy fabric for it. I thought it was going to require either linen or a very high count of aida but when I read the pattern it was asking for 14-count aida … Continue reading Lost and found →
• Blah (10/5/2021) - Tuesday, October 5, 2021 I had an appointment at the hospital early this morning for regular lab work. Since the start of Covid we have been able to book lab appointments online and I really hope once Covid is over (if it ever is) we won’t lose that ability. I got to the hospital about … Continue reading Blah →
• Done – sort of (10/4/2021) - Monday, October 4, 2021 I didn’t get everything done today that I wanted to but I manage to get my quilt top finished, a few more days worth of my 12-Days wrapped, and quite a bit of paperwork handled. I would have liked to have had the quilt top finished a lot earlier in the … Continue reading Done – sort of →
• I’m lucky (10/3/2021) - Sunday, October 3, 2021 I spent the morning getting the quilt top together. I still have borders to do and they will be tricky as I’ll have to measure each one to be sure that I have enough fabric. If I’m short I can make the borders a bit narrower. The pattern calls for three … Continue reading I’m lucky →
• Back on track (10/2/2021) - Saturday, October 2, 2021 Late yesterday afternoon, as I was finishing up the backstitching on my Thunderbird, I noticed that I had made an error and there was going to be some reverse stitching required. I didn’t look too closely at how much was going to have to be redone; I gave up and quit … Continue reading Back on track →
• Almost done (9/30/2021) - Friday, September 30, 2021 I’ve spent most of this first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation working on an old project – Thunderbird. I’ve had mixed feelings about it over the couple of years (at least) that it has been on my list of UFOs. When I first bought the pattern I was really happy … Continue reading Almost done →
• The day is gone (9/29/2021) - Wednesday, September 29, 2021 The day is gone and have nothing to show for it; I’ve puttered the entire day away. I had some paperwork to do today so I started with that. I put away all my quilting project sheets but noticed I was missing a page on some of the other printing I … Continue reading The day is gone →
• Slow going (9/28/2021) - Tuesday, September 28, 2021 I’ve been working on the binding for the tablecloth and it is taking so much longer than I thought it would. There may be a couple of reasons for that. First, I’ve spent a lot of time on the phone and online today. It was a Guild check-in this morning and … Continue reading Slow going →
• I am amazed (9/27/2021) - Monday, September 27, 2021 The storm took out our power last night for a couple of hours. Fortunately it went out before it was completely dark outside and we were able to make our way upstairs and find the candles before the blackness settled in. Pat watched the progress of the hydro crew from his … Continue reading I am amazed →
• We were tempted (9/26/2021) - Sunday, September 26, 2021 I worked on the Guild archives and the next clue in the mystery this morning; I was concentrating so hard I almost missed my chat with Stacia and Deloise (thanks for calling to see where I was Deloise). From there I switched to some more quilting lines on the tablecloth. When … Continue reading We were tempted →
• There’s a storm coming (9/25/2021) - Saturday, September 25, 2021 The morning was gone before I knew it. Yesterday I dug out some of the items I had set aside for my 12-Days of Christmas packages so today I took a look at my list and filled in some of the gaps. There was a lot of searching for ideas and … Continue reading There’s a storm coming →
• One last time? (9/24/2021) - Friday, September 24, 2021 I finished cutting the fabric for the Guild’s mystery quilt this morning. I took a trip to the “old” fabric shop and purchase a metre of four different fabrics. In the end, I used only one of the fabrics from yesterday and all but one of the fabrics I purchased today. … Continue reading One last time? →
• I thought I was done (9/23/2021) - Thursday, September 23, 2021 I had a productive morning. After checking my mail and Facebook I did some work on my Guild archives. I’ve been putting off doing them every time they came up on my reminder list but I need to keep at it if I want it done before a new batch of … Continue reading I thought I was done →
• A bit of a few things (9/22/2021) - Wednesday, September 22, 2021 The weather this morning didn’t look very promising for getting out on the step to sandwich Kathryn’s tablecloth but by lunch time the sun was shining and I got it done. Before I got to that though I did a bit more scanning and shredding from Christy’s bin. I’m making progress … Continue reading A bit of a few things →
• Thank you (9/21/2021) - Tuesday, September 21, 2021 Thank you to everyone for the good wishes on my birthday yesterday. I had a lovely day – lots of phone calls and messages, some hand stitching, some reading and a Subway supper with a DQ ice cream cake. We made a tough decision yesterday – we won’t be going to … Continue reading Thank you →
• Having fun (9/19/2021) - September 19, 2021 I try to win a game of Solitaire every day; I’ll try three times in a row and unless I win I move on to something more productive and try again the next time I need a break. This morning I won the first game I played so I needed something else … Continue reading Having fun →
• Trying something new (9/18/2021) - September 18, 2021 As per my post yesterday I’m trying something new for circulating my Journal. I’ve either heard from you that you want to get my posts via e-mail or you were on a previous list when I still had automated messaging. If you would prefer not to receive these postings by e-mail please … Continue reading Trying something new →
• Musings – September 17 (9/17/2021) - I’ve had quite a lag in my postings of late. When I wrote my previous posts I imagined myself writing a letter but now that the automated messaging isn’t working for me I don’t feel very motivated. However, after reading Dad’s Journal from 1947 I started to think that maybe, in 70+ years, someone might … Continue reading Musings – September 17 →
• Hitting the Ground Running (8/25/2021) - Wednesday, August 25, 2021 We arrived home from Texada this morning and I’ve been busy, busy, busy. After everything was unpacked I had to make a quick trip to the library; my book was due yesterday. Normally I’d hit the book return before the library opened for the day but I had two more books … Continue reading Hitting the Ground Running →
• New chair (8/18/2021) - Wednesday, August 18, 2021 I’ve got a new chair – well to be honest Pat got a new chair and I got a new-to-me chair (his old one). It is so comfortable I’ll be able to spend hours at my computer (as if I don’t already) and I have enough chairs in my space that … Continue reading New chair →
• It’s like a jungle in here (8/14/2021) - Saturday, August 14, 2021 The show last night worked out very well. I spent the entire evening out on the deck at the Hall; it was the best place to be as several of our audience members came out from time to time to cool off and get a bit of air. I wasn’t inside … Continue reading It’s like a jungle in here →
• What didn’t get done yesterday … (8/12/2021) - Thursday, August 12, 2021 What didn’t get done yesterday got done today – well almost everything. I have the binding ready to hand stitch on my quilt and I have my mixer cover pieces just about all quilted. I should be done them by supper time. I’ve spent a lot of time on Hall work … Continue reading What didn’t get done yesterday … →
• Quilting (8/11/2021) - Wednesday, August 11, 2021 I had hoped the title would be quilting and more quilting but the day is almost over and I’m not going to get to the “more” part. Yesterday was a sewing day with Stacia and Deloise. I managed to keep up to them and even had time to start a new … Continue reading Quilting →
• A full day of sewing (8/9/2021) - Monday, August 9, 2021 I’ve had a full day of sewing. I thought about going out to the yard this morning but it was rather cool and since I was already dressed for my video chat this morning I didn’t feel like changing into my yard clothes. I marked and quilted one side of the … Continue reading A full day of sewing →
• Quick job (8/8/2021) - Sunday, August 8, 2021 After being so un-motivated on Friday I got down to business on Saturday and almost finished quilting my Super Nova. I finished up the quilting this morning and made a small start on the borders. The quilting is very simple and it will end up being a nice summer-weight quilt. Because … Continue reading Quick job →
• Unsettled (8/6/2021) - Friday, August 6, 2021 I spent all morning working at my computer, mainly catching up on Cranberry Hall business. We actually had two meetings last week – one was our AGM and the other was a regular Board meeting. I had to-do lists from both meetings and some updates I needed to make to both … Continue reading Unsettled →
• I might get it done (8/5/2021) - Thursday, August 5, 2021 Last night was the AGM for the Hall. I knew we wouldn’t get a large turnout but I thought maybe, just maybe, someone would show up. But no, it was just the incoming Board members who attended (and they were the only active Board members from last year). Someone joked that … Continue reading I might get it done →
• Old habits (8/3/2021) - Tuesday, August 3, 2021 It just doesn’t feel right if I don’t write a post. Old habits die hard. While I was outside doing my yard work this morning the owners of the rental house next door came by and started bushwhacking their way through the yard next door. I rightly guessed that they were … Continue reading Old habits →
• Blueberry Commons (8/2/2021) - Monday, August 2, 2021 Just when I thought there would be nothing to post about for a day or two I actually have a couple of things to tell you about. We are under water restrictions and are only allowed to water on even numbered days. So the sprinkler hasn’t been out for a few … Continue reading Blueberry Commons →
• Mail Updates (8/2/2021) - Monday, August 2, 2021 If you are receiving this post it is because you have found me through my website. For many years I used a mail delivery system on my website called Feed Burner which worked really well. I’ve know for awhile that the program was going to be discontinued but I underestimated how … Continue reading Mail Updates →
• Catching up (7/30/2021) - Friday, July 30, 2021 I had several things that were almost complete so I started working on those this morning after I did some computer work and ran a couple of errands. I fixed the mistake I made in my embroidery project. I’m not sure anyone would have picked it out but I knew it … Continue reading Catching up →
• Another hot one (7/29/2021) - Thursday, July 29, 2021 We’ve had another hot day here and it is going to get worse over the next couple of days. I usually like to work in the front yard in the morning as it is a bit cooler but there was a breeze coming in the back door and I didn’t want … Continue reading Another hot one →
• Almost all work (7/28/2021) - Wednesday, July 28, 2021 It seems like I’ve worked all day but I have very little to show for it. I was at the grocery store bright and early and picked up everything on the list. I was going to return something to Walmart but they didn’t open until eight and I would have had … Continue reading Almost all work →
• Just like old times (7/27/2021) - Tuesday, July 27, 2021 I had an appointment with the Hall’s accountant at nine this morning; I had a list of errands to run after that so there was no weeding this morning. One of those errands was another trip to the library; I picked up two books but I returned three so I think … Continue reading Just like old times →
• Too warm (7/26/2021) - Monday, July 26, 2021 I worked out in the yard this morning. The bed I wanted to concentrate on was in the sun so I spent half my time on it and the other half on a bed that is in the shade. It’s a good thing I have choices. Pat sprayed the patio blocks, … Continue reading Too warm →
• Back to normality (7/25/2021) - Sunday, July 25, 2021 I had a wonderful week on Texada but today it is back to reality. We spent the first couple of days on Texada doing a really good cleaning of the workshop. I have decided (once again) to use the space for sewing. I won’t move my quilting machine back over there … Continue reading Back to normality →
• Ready (7/18/2021) - Sunday, July 18, 2021 I spent the morning getting ahead on my reminders and paperwork. We’ll be off to Texada tomorrow morning and there were some things that were supposed to happen next week that I either got done early or delayed them a bit. Once that was finished I started packing up projects to … Continue reading Ready →
• Quilting Day (7/17/2021) - Saturday, July 17, 2021 I’m back to my quilting project today. It is slow going but every bit counts. I’d like to have the binding on and ready for hand stitching before we leave for Texada but I think I’ll run out of time. Every quilted line counts though so I haven’t given up entirely. … Continue reading Quilting Day →
• An odd day (7/15/2021) - Thursday, July 15, 2021 I haven’t gone grocery shopping for a long time; we’ve either had them delivered or Pat has been doing the shopping. But I was at the store right at seven this morning, got what was on the list and was home shortly after 7:30. Since I had decent clothes on (not … Continue reading An odd day →
• Progress (7/14/2021) - Wednesday, July 14, 2021 I spent most of the morning out in the yard after doing a bit of Pat’s accounting. I hadn’t intended to tackle the grape but it was overtaking a couple of bushes so I decided to get it cleaned up before I started actually weeding the beds. Long story short, I … Continue reading Progress →
• It’s a start (7/13/2021) - Tuesday, July 13, 2021 I managed to avoid quilting all morning – some Guild work, some yard work, some Hall work and a few errands. I finally put a few stitches into the quilt this afternoon but it is going to be a slow process. I don’t really have a plan for the quilting so … Continue reading It’s a start →
• Back in the Hall (7/12/2021) - Monday, July 12, 2021 Yesterday’s Song Circle was an easy event for me to moderate. There were only seven participants and they were all performers. Once I started the recording I turned off the camera and the microphone and worked on my Cranberry Hall accounting. I still have to post the recording but I’ll get … Continue reading Back in the Hall →
• Quite a stack (7/10/2021) - Saturday, July 10, 2021 I’ve been sandwiching quilts all day today. I started this morning on the back deck because in my mind it is cool out there in the mornings. Apparently not the case. By noon I was so tired and my back hurt so much I was hoping I would run out of … Continue reading Quite a stack →
• That was easy (7/9/2021) - Friday, July 9, 2021 I picked out some wide backing this morning and in no time at all I had a piece cut for that last quilt top. I intended to buy some flannel but I liked the colour of some of her cotton better. It’s a bonus that the cotton doesn’t have to be … Continue reading That was easy →
• Disappointing (7/8/2021) - Thursday, July 8, 2021 I didn’t sleep well last night so I decided not to go out and work in the yard today. I was still sore from yesterday’s work and my head was still aching from the allergies. I should have got a lot more done with my day than I actually did. I … Continue reading Disappointing →
• Back to some real work (7/7/2021) - Wednesday, July 7, 2021 It was time for some real work today and I headed out to the yard quite early as I wanted to be finished before the heat of the day. I was working on the small sitting area we have at the back. The ivy was completely overgrown, a couple of trees … Continue reading Back to some real work →
• Not my best day (7/6/2021) - Tuesday, July 6, 2021 We headed out to the dump this morning with a truck load of green waste. I had a meeting at ten but Pat was sure we could get the job done and be back in time. I was doubtful but thought if I was a bit late it would be okay. … Continue reading Not my best day →
• Picking out the oranges (7/5/2021) - Monday, July 5, 2021 The first clue for one of my mystery projects came out last week and I was quite pleased with myself for getting everything cut before the first sewing clue came out. I did worry that I didn’t have enough variety in my fabrics; my colour was yellow and to make up … Continue reading Picking out the oranges →
• Layer by layer (7/4/2021) - Sunday, July 4, 2021 I finished my last load of laundry this morning. It has been a slow process as I’ve only been doing one load a day and hanging it on the line to dry. I didn’t want to heat the house up by running the drier, but for those things I did need … Continue reading Layer by layer →
• A treat (7/3/2021) - Saturday, July 3, 2021 My treat today was a trip to the fabric store but I thought before I got my treat I should do a bit of work to earn it. So I loaded up the recycling for the depot. I was lucky that there was no line up when I went in (they … Continue reading A treat →
• Finally (7/2/2021) - Friday, July 2, 2021 I finally got to do some sewing today. I hadn’t sewn a stitch since before we left for Texada and I haven’t done anything since we got back. I took lots of sewing with me to the studio but it was too hot to have the iron on and adding in … Continue reading Finally →
• Oh Canada (7/1/2021) - Thursday, July 1, 2021 From a friend (David Latimer) on Facebook: “Not just a day. We need a year of mourning. Cancel the Canada day celebrations nation wide. All of the resources earmarked for parades and fireworks and silly little plastic Canada flags should go to residential school investigations, reconciliation actions, clean drinking water for … Continue reading Oh Canada →
• Cut, cut, cut and cut (6/30/2021) - Wednesday, June 30, 2021 It was a little cooler today and there has been a breeze all day. I was up early and had most of my computer work done by 7:30. By 9:30 we had cooked a batch of beets, a batch of turnips and Pat had made a scrambled egg breakfast with garlic … Continue reading Cut, cut, cut and cut →
• Day 470 – As good as it gets (6/29/2021) - Tuesday, June 29, 2021 We always intended to come home from Texada today but we came on an earlier ferry than we originally planned. I think our theory that it would be cooler over there was wrong. Of course it is super hot in both places but, because we are back in the trees at … Continue reading Day 470 – As good as it gets →
• Too hot (6/26/2021) - Saturday, June 26, 2021 I don’t know if it would be cooler in Powell River than it is here today. Inside the studio the temperature is 29 degrees and I know it is even hotter outside. In Powell River there is a chance of an ocean breeze at night but when it is this hot … Continue reading Too hot →
• The magic hour (6/25/2021) - Friday, June 25, 2021 I’ve decided there is a magic hour at the studio on Texada. It’s early but definitely worth getting up for. I’m usually out on the deck by seven but the action doesn’t really start until eight. There are a few hummingbirds around but they don’t appear in numbers until it is … Continue reading The magic hour →
• The loons are back (6/24/2021) - Thursday, June 24, 2021 The loons are back – and no, that isn’t what our Texada neighbours are saying! The last time we were here Pat heard a loon once but I missed the call. Yesterday morning while I was at my computer I heard a loon, which is very odd for Powell River. Last … Continue reading The loons are back →
• Heat Wave (6/23/2021) - Wednesday, June 23, 2021 Our area is in for a heat wave over the next few days starting its climb tomorrow and peaking on Saturday and Sunday. Since we are in the forest on Texada we decided to come over and take advantage of whatever cool we can get. I had barely unpacked from our … Continue reading Heat Wave →
• Where do I start (6/21/2021) - Monday, June 21, 2021 We didn’t leave Texada until the five o’clock ferry and it was a good way to end our visit this time. I had all day to get my cleaning done and I interspersed the cleaning with some cross stitching. If we leave on the noon ferry we tend to putter around … Continue reading Where do I start →
• Happy Father’s Day (6/20/2021) - Sunday, June 20, 2021 I’m enjoying seeing lots of photos of fathers on Facebook today. When I think of father figures in my life most of them are gone as well as many of the fathers of my own generation. I think of Dad almost every day as I go about my business – things … Continue reading Happy Father’s Day →
• Hummingbird wars (6/19/2021) - Saturday, June 19, 2021 I started my day out on the deck watching the action around the hummingbird feeder. It was quite a steady stream of visitors all the time I was out there. When I took a morning coffee break, again out on the deck, the fight was on for space at the feeder. … Continue reading Hummingbird wars →
• Things I forgot (6/18/2021) - Friday, June 18, 2021 I was setting up my computer last night when we arrived and I realized I had forgotten my mouse. The laptop has a touch pad but I hate it and I’m not very good with it. Fortunately other than checking messages, wasting time on Facebook and a journal post every now … Continue reading Things I forgot →
• Killing time (6/17/2021) - Thursday, June 17, 2021 That sounds like a horror film but it’s not. I’m killing time until I go to my Guild year-end wrap up. I don’t want to be too early, but I want to be early enough to get a good parking spot so I can make a clean get-away in order that … Continue reading Killing time →
• Glad to come home (6/16/2021) - Wednesday, June 16, 2021 I thought I was going to get a reprieve from yard work today because it was quite rainy when I got up. After breakfast I sorted out the recycling on the back deck and it seemed rather nice out so I headed out with the weeding gear. Because we see the … Continue reading Glad to come home →
• Wounded in battle (6/15/2021) - Tuesday, June 15, 2021 I was clearing out the roses at the back today and they, as well as the blackberries, fought back. It’s the second time through this year for them and although the bindweed was pretty thick I think there were less blackberries. I was dressed in long sleeves and pants but I’ve … Continue reading Wounded in battle →
• Such a diva (6/14/2021) - June 14, 2021 I had three costume changes before lunch today. When I got out of my pjs I put on what I thought would be my clothes for the day. After my video call I realized that it wasn’t going to be a rainy day as was predicted so I thought I’d go out … Continue reading Such a diva →
• New day – another attempt (6/13/2021) - Sunday, June 13, 2021 I almost have it figured out but I was surprised to get a posting last night from both the “old” system and the new system. The “old” system posted from two days ago and the new system only sent one of my two posts from yesterday. I think when I set … Continue reading New day – another attempt →
• A technical day (6/12/2021) - Saturday, June 12, 2021 I decided this morning to find another solution for my Journal mail delivery – MailPoet. I installed the program and started setting it up. I tried to send myself a test e-mail and it wouldn’t come through. I tried a couple more times with no luck. When I went back to … Continue reading A technical day →
• I guess timing wasn’t the issue (6/10/2021) - Thursday I posted early yesterday afternoon but nothing came through the delivery system. I’ve almost given up but thought I’d contact the MailChimp people to see if they know why the delivery fails more often than it succeeds. My “old” system is definitely being discontinued on July 1st so I either have to sort out … Continue reading I guess timing wasn’t the issue →
• It’s been quite a day – so far (6/9/2021) - Wednesday Pat may have sorted out the glitch I was having in my mail delivery system. If I post prior to two it seems like they go out that evening; later than that and it doesn’t seem to come out until the next day. My delivery system is set to New York time so it … Continue reading It’s been quite a day – so far →
• Day 449 – 2nd Covid Vaccination (6/8/2021) - Tuesday I feel so stupid as after mentioning my Hall meeting in yesterday’s post I completely forgot about it. I woke up at six this morning realizing that I had missed it and sent my apologies to the Board. I’m particularly annoyed with myself as I had a motion prepared that I really wanted to … Continue reading Day 449 – 2nd Covid Vaccination →
• It’s good to be back in the city (6/7/2021) - Monday I spent all morning at my computer and continuing to sort through some of the kits and patterns I brought back from Texada. One of the sites that I hoped to be able to use to sell some of the crewel embroidery won’t allow it; I have sold strictly cross stitching things there previously … Continue reading It’s good to be back in the city →
• Now that I’m relaxed and rested … (6/6/2021) - Sunday We came home on the noon ferry and, except for our own personal bins, we are unpacked. After lunch we retired to our own areas to finish settling in. For me that meant heading upstairs to see what I missed on my To-Do list while I was away. I managed to clear up a … Continue reading Now that I’m relaxed and rested … →
• Visitors (6/5/2021) - Saturday I was sitting at my desk cross stitching just now. It had just started to rain and I could hear it hitting the rooftop. When I looked out the window to see how hard the rain was coming down I saw a deer. When Pat was trying to see it from the bedroom window … Continue reading Visitors →
• Little Bee (6/4/2021) - Author: Chris Cleave The book cover says this: “We don’t want to tell you WHAT HAPPENS in this book. It is a truly SPECIAL STORY and we don’t want to spoil it. NEVERTHELESS, you need to know enough to buy it, so we will just say this: This is the story of two women. Their … Continue reading Little Bee →
• I’m not cut out for this (6/1/2021) - Tuesday I’m working on my hardanger lessons today – lesson two. I haven’t touched it since the last time we were over here. I thought I was ready for the difficult part but there were a few new stitches to add before the cutting began. There are so many ways these lessons could have been … Continue reading I’m not cut out for this →
• Issues (5/31/2021) - Monday I seem to be having issues with the mail delivery system. Saturday’s journal didn’t post but I expected to see it this morning. Nothing came through. I haven’t found an actual glitch yet but I’m hoping a new post might restart the process. I did have one journal get through with the new system. … Continue reading Issues →
• We’re booked (5/29/2021) - Saturday I was expecting a message in the next couple of weeks so I was surprised this morning when I was invited to book for my second Covid vaccine. The timing for the first available appointment was perfect – June 8th in the afternoon. That is the day after we plan to be back from … Continue reading We’re booked →
• A computer day (5/28/2021) - Friday I was disappointed last night when I was unable to join the Zoom meeting for 100+ Women Who Care. I thought I had registered when the first e-mail came out so I ignored the three reminders. But I guess I hadn’t registered as I didn’t have a link and I wasn’t able to get … Continue reading A computer day →
• Not much (5/27/2021) - Thursday I had very little computer work to do this morning so I was sewing before Pat was out of bed. I finished getting the binding on the last couple of cards and then moved on to quilting my Guild challenge fr the year. I knew it wouldn’t take long and I already have the … Continue reading Not much →
• No wonder (5/26/2021) - Wednesday I worked in the yard last night and again this morning. I got more done than I thought I would and have only a small stretch on the side of the house that adjoins our neighbours yard. When I get that patch done we’ll make a trip to the dump with all our green … Continue reading No wonder →
• My Own Little Corner (5/25/2021) - I had another day of card tops. At the beginning of the day I knew there were three tops that needed to be done and possibly a fourth one. One of our Guild members has a birthday the day after our next meeting and, if we were meeting in person, I wanted to give her … Continue reading My Own Little Corner →
• Cards (5/24/2021) - Monday, May 24, 2021 I spent all morning working on my website. Adding the authors to my book posts isn’t hard but it is monotonous. I have two out of sixteen pages done so there is still a lot to go. I’ll have to up my daily page count if I ever hope to finish. … Continue reading Cards →
• Lunch at the Beach (5/23/2021) - Sunday, May 23, 2021 If you happen to go to my website you will notice some changes. I’ve been wanting to do a make-over for quite awhile and I needed to change my mailing system; it seemed like a good time to make all the changes. I now have a search field; I mostly wanted … Continue reading Lunch at the Beach →
• Where did the morning go (5/21/2021) - Friday, May 21, 2021 I went out this morning and picked up my printing from Staples. Some of it was for the Guild but most of it was for my quilting project book. I hadn’t updated anything since October of 2019. I stopped at Kathleen’s to drop off the Guild work and we sat out … Continue reading Where did the morning go →
• Cabin fever (5/20/2021) - Thursday, May 20, 2021 I had some cards ready for the mail today but I held off walking them up to the letterbox because I ordered a couple of library books yesterday and I wanted to wait to see if one of them was ready for pick-up. I also had a print order in at … Continue reading Cabin fever →
• What’s next? (5/19/2021) - Wednesday, May 19, 2021 It was just a small little tick on my Reminders list but boy did it feel good to have my Mystery quilt done and off the list. This morning I prepped another Laundry Basket block to use as leaders and enders for the day. Then rolled it up (you can see … Continue reading What’s next? →
• I know how she feels (5/18/2021) - Tuesday, May 18, 2021 Pat planned hamburgers for supper tonight but I didn’t have any of my veggie burgers left. So I went out just after seven to pick some up. I decided to stop at FreshCo (our Safeway replacement) because it is closer than Quality Foods where I usually shop. I’ve only been in … Continue reading I know how she feels →
• A little of this and that (5/17/2021) - Monday, May 17, 2021 If you look at finishes I haven’t had a very productive day. But I have made progress on a few projects. I’m almost three-quarters of the way through the binding on my mystery quilt. I’ll be checking in with the Guild a few times tomorrow and I hope to finish the … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• When in doubt (5/15/2021) - Saturday, May 15, 2021 I slept much better last night and am feeling much more ambitious today. I tied in all the ends on my quilt; it went much faster than I anticipated. I thought I might have “just enough” fabric for the binding but I was a bit worried it wouldn’t be enough. I … Continue reading When in doubt →
• Plodding through (5/14/2021) - Friday, May 14, 2021 I didn’t sleep well last night. I went to bed at my usual time and read before turning out the light. An hour later I turned the light back on and read for another hour. After another hour with the light off I got up and moved to the couch. I … Continue reading Plodding through →
• Sold (5/12/2021) - Wednesday, May 12, 2021 For the last couple of nights I have tried to sit and watch TV without having some sort of stitching in my hands. I just couldn’t do it; I was falling asleep. And if I fall asleep who will wake Pat up when he falls asleep? I wanted to get that … Continue reading Sold →
• I thought I was done (5/11/2021) - Tuesday, May 11, 2021 Two days into this online mystery quilt and I’m already behind. The four blocks yesterday led me to believe it would be easy to keep up with the clues but today I needed to make 20 blocks and that just wasn’t going to happen. I managed to get four blocks done … Continue reading I thought I was done →
• Back at it (5/10/2021) - Monday, May 10, 2021 I had a lovely day yesterday; I purposely spent the day relaxing; I was happy to know I can still do that. I needed a new project for the evenings so I dug into my bin and pulled out what was right on top. Once I knew the yarn I had … Continue reading Back at it →
• I keep my promises (5/8/2021) - Saturday, May 8, 2021 I promised yesterday to get out in the yard today and that is exactly what I did. I think I’ve discovered the secret to getting outside – I need to start outside first thing in the morning before I get involved in something else and start finding excuses not to go … Continue reading I keep my promises →
• Another day … another line (5/7/2021) - Friday, May 7, 2021 Another day of quilting and I’m surprised that it is going as well as it is – touch wood it continues that way. Granted I’m only doing straight line quilting but if you have to turn the quilt from one line to the next there is a lot of bulk on … Continue reading Another day … another line →
• Done – sort of (5/6/2021) - Thursday, May 6, 2021 I spent all day yesterday (except for a short nap in the afternoon) quilting; Pat had an online event in the evening so I even spent some time after supper. After another full morning I’m happy to say I’ve accomplished what I set out to do in this particular session. The … Continue reading Done – sort of →
• Use the good dishes (5/4/2021) - Tuesday, May 4, 2021 My plan was to work half a day at my quilting and half a day in the yard. Things didn’t turn out quite that way. My list of reminders involved a lot of computer-related work so most of the morning was spent at my desk. I had a couple of things … Continue reading Use the good dishes →
• It’s a start (5/3/2021) - Monday, May 3, 2021 Time is running out for me to get my mystery quilt finished before the Guild’s June wind-up. I thought I had a plan but when I started this morning I decided that my plan, although it would work, needed some revisions. I tried one section and was happy with the results … Continue reading It’s a start →
• I didn’t think I’d have time (5/2/2021) - Sunday, May 2, 2021 I was catching up on my Guild Blocks of the Month today – I was three months behind. I had the first one finished by noon. The second block was a Card Trick, which is a pattern I really like. The block is also one that I want to have in … Continue reading I didn’t think I’d have time →
• Ready – Set (5/1/2021) - Saturday, May 1, 2021 I finished up my latest batch of cards before I stopped for lunch. When lunch was over I lined up patterns for my next set of cards. This being the first of the month my reminders for cards due in June popped up – there are five or six next month … Continue reading Ready – Set →
• I should just quit (4/30/2021) - Friday, April 30, 2021 I spent the day making a couple of cards. It takes about half a day for each card top and sometimes longer if they include appliqué or embroidery. One of the cards today had both and the other one had only appliqué. I pieced batting for the three cards in this … Continue reading I should just quit →
• It adds up (4/29/2021) - Thursday, April 29, 2021 I woke up with a headache this morning. I don’t get them often anymore and I seldom feel the need to go back to bed after taking medication but I did today. I’m not sure what triggered it – allergies maybe, or the change in weather of late. I didn’t feel … Continue reading It adds up →
• A bit of catching up (4/28/2021) - Wednesday, April 28, 2021 I was up early this morning and spent some time at my desk catching up on some of my own paperwork as well as some for the Guild and the Hall. By eight I was ready for breakfast and my coffee but I was back sewing before nine. I have the … Continue reading A bit of catching up →
• I thought I was done (4/27/2021) - Tuesday, April 27, 2021 It’s been another day of That Fairy Tale Quilt. I put the last row together and was excited at the thought of stitching the centre four rows together. I put it all out on the floor across the hall from my sewing room and noticed that the top two rows were … Continue reading I thought I was done →
• It’s here! (4/26/2021) - Monday, April 26, 2021 It’s been a long time coming but today was opening day. We haven’t stopped in or gone through the drive-thru but we’ll be big supporters (big in more than one way) soon! I ran a few errands today but for the most part I’ve been finishing up another row of That … Continue reading It’s here! →
• I don’t entirely blame the witch (4/25/2021) - Sunday, April 25, 2021 I’ve been working on That Fairy Tale Quilt today. Finally Hansel and Gretel are done – far from perfect but done. As I stitched and restitched, cut and recut I couldn’t help but think of the actual fairy tale. Hansel and Gretel were lost (or abandoned depending on what version you … Continue reading I don’t entirely blame the witch →
• Lazy Day (4/24/2021) - Saturday, April 24, 2021 I wasn’t able to finish my cards last night. It turns out I can knit and watch subtitles but I can’t sew and watch them. I finished off a scarf and thought my knitting basket was empty but when I looked today I see that I have enough in there for … Continue reading Lazy Day →
• It didn’t work (4/23/2021) - Friday, April 23, 2021 I thought I might have a short day in the sewing room but it hasn’t worked out that way. I was working on cards again; getting the quilting done on the five of them was quite quick. I usually do an envelope backing on the cards but I decided after my … Continue reading It didn’t work →
• Happy Earth Day (4/22/2021) - Thursday, April 22, 2021 I spent all morning in the sewing room working on cards. I have one more left to finish in this particular batch. They will all need to be quilted right away so they can go into the mail. One of the ones I worked on yesterday and finished today needs some … Continue reading Happy Earth Day →
• I’m confused (4/21/2021) - Wednesday, April 21, 2021 I’m often confused about one thing or another but I’m having a hard time remembering that today is Wednesday and not Monday. I think there are two reasons for this particular confusion. Coming home from Texada on a Tuesday rather than our usual Sunday evening (when our weeks were much busier … Continue reading I’m confused →
• Change in plans (4/20/2021) - Tuesday, April 20, 2021 We intended to stay on Texada for another day but packed up and came home quite quickly late this morning. We unloaded some things into the workshop and then Pat cleaned and swept out his truck bed. While I did that I found a few sewing-related things that I wanted to … Continue reading Change in plans →
• Packed and waiting (4/18/2021) - Sunday, April 18, 2021 Pat and I are heading over to Texada later this afternoon. I have almost everything packed. My Kindle is charging and my cell phone is beside it so I won’t forget either one. I have a small bag of meds sitting on top of the book I’m taking and my sweater … Continue reading Packed and waiting →
• Ten years (4/17/2021) - Saturday, April 17, 2021 This photo, from ten years ago, popped up on my Facebook feed this morning. I can barely remember our yard looking like this. Here’s how the yard looks today. Along the right side of the house I have my blueberry bushes, our mock orange, some peonies, our sedums, some lilies and … Continue reading Ten years →
• Done (4/16/2021) - Friday, April 16, 2021 I’ve had a busy day but I’m ready to have a drink and sit in my chair until supper. I spent all morning at my computer. I’m caught up on my Guild work, including some work on the archives. I caught up on my Hall work, including an e-mail to our … Continue reading Done →
• A complete failure (4/15/2021) - Thursday, April 15, 2021 Pat had requested a carrot cake for his birthday – the one with the pineapple in it. After my bread was in the bread maker I started on the cake. I was ready to mix everything up when I realized I hadn’t shred any carrots; three large carrots gave me the … Continue reading A complete failure →
• Another challenging day (4/12/2021) - Monday, April 12, 2021 If Stacia and Deloise weren’t also challenged with the pattern we’re doing I’d probably have given up by now. I was working slowly doing the same step in each of the six blocks at the same time. When they were all done I lined them up three of the six were … Continue reading Another challenging day →
• Sewing was so bad … (4/11/2021) - Sunday, April 11, 2021 How bad was it? I spent the entire morning trying to get the bonnet and face done for Gretel. I wanted her facing the gingerbread house and no matter how I sewed or cut the three pieces for her face I could not get it right. I finally got one together … Continue reading Sewing was so bad … →
• Quite a difference (4/9/2021) - Friday, April 9, 2021 I joined an online class this morning on precision piecing. The instructors were in Powell River for an in-person class a few years ago so today was a good refresher. I’d stopped using many of their techniques (even though I knew they worked) and I’ll get back into it again. I … Continue reading Quite a difference →
• Not much done today (4/8/2021) - Thursday, April 8, 2021 I puttered around in my sewing room this morning and didn’t accomplish much of anything. My quilting project needs binding done and I really didn’t feel like doing it so it was very slow going. I got my work done and distributed for the next Hall meeting so I guess that … Continue reading Not much done today →
• Now this is more like it (4/6/2021) - Tuesday, April 6, 2021 I’m very happy to be back to quilting today. It seems like a long time since I started quilting this project but I’ve had a good day and I think I’ll be able to finish it tomorrow. The weather is going to be good all this week and next so I … Continue reading Now this is more like it →
• Enough is enough (4/5/2021) - Monday, April 5, 2021 You probably think I took a vacation over the Easter break. You’d be wrong. I worked almost three full days (and I mean from morning coffee to supper) working at archiving the Guild’s blog. I’m not really finished but I managed to get our usage down from 98% to 20% so … Continue reading Enough is enough →
• Focus (4/2/2021) - Friday, April 2, 2021 I’m quilting today. The pattern I’m using is an easy one and one that I’ve used many times. I don’t even have to mark the top as the seam lines pretty much tell me where I need to point my needle. The pattern is from corner to middle, from middle to … Continue reading Focus →
• Hot Cross Buns (4/1/2021) - Thursday, April 1, 2021 I did some research on hot cross buns to find out why “hot” and here is some of what I found. This all comes from a Google search so it must all be true! Hot Cross Buns are inextricably linked to Easter and to Christianity. But in reality, they probably have pre-Christian … Continue reading Hot Cross Buns →
• I’m tired (3/31/2021) - Wednesday, March 31, 2021 Audrey often says that when she reads my Journal it makes her tired. Well today doing all the things I’m going to write about in my Journal has made me tired. I started the day very relaxed. I finished up my Neglected Floss stitching for February; March’s instalment isn’t available yet. … Continue reading I’m tired →
• Bread and sandwiches (3/30/2021) - Tuesday, March 30, 2021 Just as the Texada ferry was pulling into the dock this morning Pat spotted a large pod of dolphins surrounding it. I’ve seen Facebook reports of dolphins for several days but we’ve never managed to catch them out our windows. It wasn’t a huge pod and they were quickly moving south. … Continue reading Bread and sandwiches →
• Day 378 – First Vaccination (3/29/2021) - Monday, March 29, 2021 Our first Covid-19 vaccination went off smoothly this morning; we received the Pfizer vaccine. They checked out appointment at one stop along the way, then another stop to take down our health number and then I went straight into the vaccination room. Pat thought I would never finish as my session … Continue reading Day 378 – First Vaccination →
• There’s music in the air (3/28/2021) - Sunday, March 28, 2021 I just finished watching a Home Routes concert featuring The Mavens – Shari Ulrich, Lynn Miles and Susan Crowe. It was the best online show I’ve seen since online shows became the norm. Shari Ulrich has performed in Powell River several times with various groups. I first saw her perform at … Continue reading There’s music in the air →
• A Shattered Dream (3/27/2021) - Saturday, March 27, 2021 I had all of my Log Cabin quilt blocks finished before lunch. When I crossed those off my list I noticed that two of the next three projects were hand stitching and I was really looking forward to them. At the top of the list was Pat’s accounting but I’ve been … Continue reading A Shattered Dream →
• Moving on (3/26/2021) - Friday, March 26, 2021 I finished stitching all the blocks I was working on this past week (it seems like longer) so I didn’t feel too badly about setting it aside. It is a lovely day out and I perhaps should have been out on the deck sandwiching but I’ll hope for a good day … Continue reading Moving on →
• Essentials (3/25/2021) - Thursday, March 25, 2021 Covid-19 case numbers in BC are exploding in spite of the vaccination rollout; 700+ yesterday and 800 today, the highest since January. In January when the numbers were high we were placed under rigorous restrictions – no gatherings indoors or out. But now, when the cases are just as high, some … Continue reading Essentials →
• It was my fault (3/24/2021) - Wednesday, March 24, 2021 Christy’s valentine showed up today – back in my mailbox. I transposed a couple of the numbers and it came back as “No Such Address”. Isn’t there a song with that line in it? I hate that I can’t blame the post office, particularly after my recent rant. I’m going to … Continue reading It was my fault →
• Plodding along (3/23/2021) - Tuesday, March 23, 2021 On a really good day I should be able to get two of my project blocks finished. I’ve yet to have a really good day. On a good day I can almost get two project blocks finished. I’ve had a couple of good days. On most days I can get one … Continue reading Plodding along →
• We may never get mail again (3/22/2021) - Monday, March 22, 2021 I had several cards to get in the mail today, a library book to return and one to pick up. When the cards were ready I set out for the two errands. When I went to the drive-by mailboxes at the post office the slot for packages (which I generally use … Continue reading We may never get mail again →
• Day 369 – We’re in! (3/20/2021) - Saturday, March 20, 2021 After about an hour and a half on the phone we got through and have our Covid-19 vaccine booked for March 29th. Pat spent most of the time redialing but when he passed the phone to me to make himself a sandwich it was no time at all before I got … Continue reading Day 369 – We’re in! →
• My kind of day (3/19/2021) - Friday, March 19, 2021 I’ve had a great day! Last night I finished a book so this morning I picked out my next one. It wasn’t much of a choice because the one I finished is due back at the library, the next one is a library book, and I have another one waiting at … Continue reading My kind of day →
• More signs of Spring (3/18/2021) - Thursday, March 18, 2021 We are getting brief spots of sun today between wind and showers so weather-wise it isn’t feeling very spring-like. But I was out getting a couple of birthday gifts this morning and the cherry trees behind Walmart are coming into blossom. They aren’t entirely pink yet but they will be very … Continue reading More signs of Spring →
• It takes all the pressure off (3/17/2021) - Wednesday, March 17, 2021 I spent all day yesterday and today quilting. Now that I’ve decided I don’t need to push myself to use a free-motion technique or to learn how to quilt with rulers I’m actually enjoying the process. I have a few stitches that I can use for almost any project and I … Continue reading It takes all the pressure off →
• Day 365 (3/16/2021) - March 16, 2021 Remember way back when I was counting the days of self-isolation? I stopped counting at Week 9, Day 7 but realized today that it has been a year. It took a long time before I realized that this was going to be our new way of living for an extended period. I’ve … Continue reading Day 365 →
• When will I be done? (3/15/2021) - Monday, March 15, 2021 I was working on cards AGAIN! I have all but one quilted but there are a lot of ends to tie in before they are finished. The last one needs some appliqué work so that means changing thread colours many many times. I also had a finished card that needed to … Continue reading When will I be done? →
• A Zoom kind of day (3/14/2021) - Sunday, March 14, 2021 I finished the last of my card tops this morning and have everything ready (batting and backings) to start quilting them tomorrow. After that it was almost a necessity to clean up my cutting table – I had such a mess I was working in about a one-foot square space. And … Continue reading A Zoom kind of day →
• It was going so well (3/13/2021) - Saturday, March 13, 2021 Up until right now I have thoroughly enjoyed my day. It’s been another day of cards and I have all but one completed – they were all fun and went together well. The first card was an Sunbonnet Sue appliqué; I love Sunbonnet Sue so this was a fun one to … Continue reading It was going so well →
• Not an easy day (3/12/2021) - Friday, March 12, 2021 I was working on cards today; I have five cards due in April. My thought was that I’d get most of the tops done today, the remainder tomorrow and perhaps even get the quilting on them finished that day. I had all my patterns picked out so it shouldn’t have been … Continue reading Not an easy day →
• I’m very lucky (3/11/2021) - Thursday, March 11, 2021 We had a good two days on Texada – I think we both needed a change of scenery. I managed to get two of the three quilts I took over sandwiched. It was my choice not to do the third one. I finished the book I was reading, started and then … Continue reading I’m very lucky →
• Great weekend (3/8/2021) - Monday, March 8, 2021 It was a fun few days quilting (virtually) with Stacia and Deloise. Our monthly miniature went together very quickly. Our theme was donation quilts and I had a pattern and a start on one. I wasn’t very far into the second day when I realized the quilt I was making was … Continue reading Great weekend →
• Quilting with my Sisters – Day 1 (3/5/2021) - Friday, March 5, 2021 I spent a lovely day with Stacia and Deloise and there will be two more days of it. First up was the March miniature from our postcard collection. I’ll post pictures soon. And what a treat to look out the window while I’m sitting at the table to see this basket … Continue reading Quilting with my Sisters – Day 1 →
• I wish I hadn’t done the math (3/4/2021) - Thursday, March 4, 2021 I finally got the first block for my postage stamp quilt finished. This was a sample to see if the design I worked out on paper translated to something I wanted to make. I quite like it in spite of how much time it took. There are 32 coloured four-patch blocks … Continue reading I wish I hadn’t done the math →
• Getting ready – with a twist (3/2/2021) - Tuesday, March 2, 2021 I went to the fabric shop as soon as it opened this morning but I wasn’t able to find the fabric I wanted. I had pretty much given up on getting anything when I spied a display on the top of one of the cabinets. It was a decent match but … Continue reading Getting ready – with a twist →
• Getting ready (3/1/2021) - Monday, March 1, 2021 The first of the month is a fun day in my sewing room. The UFO Challenge for the month is released, and all the cards I need to make also come up on my task list. Today I’ve worked hard but all I’ve done is get things ready. I have three … Continue reading Getting ready →
• Like I needed more (2/28/2021) - Sunday, February 28, 2021 You saw the pile of scraps on my cutting table yesterday. When I finished for the day I went downstairs and glanced out the back door. There was a little package on the deck; it looked like someone had just thrown something over the gate. When I picked it up there … Continue reading Like I needed more →
• Another day – another corner (2/27/2021) - Saturday, February 27, 2021 Since yesterday’s cleaning up went so well I decided to tackle another corner today. This fabric storage corner is always a mess. Even with a cabinet and bins to store fabric in everything is always a jumble. Behind that bulletin board is a small wicker trunk that held scraps that I … Continue reading Another day – another corner →
• Cleaning up is a messy business (2/26/2021) - Friday, February 26, 2021 I had such a mess from the last two days of mask making that I decided it was time to do some cleanup. So why (oh why) did I start cleaning in a spot that wasn’t even pulled apart all that badly? I use batiks for one of the layers in … Continue reading Cleaning up is a messy business →
• Another day of masks (2/25/2021) - Thursday, February 25, 2021 I made nine more masks today. Once the fun of picking the front and back fabrics is over they tend to be a bit boring. At the end of the process though I also get to pick threads that will match the fabrics so that adds a bit of interest. It … Continue reading Another day of masks →
• Looking ahead and back (2/24/2021) - Wednesday, February 24, 2021 I started my day making masks. I made a lot of masks for everyone in my family at the start of the pandemic and later in the year I made a bunch more that were three layers rather than two. Everyone sent me back masks that I could convert into three … Continue reading Looking ahead and back →
• Calendar Day (2/23/2021) - Tuesday, February 23, 2021 I worked on some calendar blocks today. I had one block cut out and made two from scratch. I’m sure I have enough blocks for two (maybe more) quilt tops but I’ll wait until we go to Texada as I have a really good design wall over there. Looking at the … Continue reading Calendar Day →
• Spring is here (2/22/2021) - Monday, February 22, 2021 If the sunshine today wasn’t a clear sign that spring is on its way, what I found on my deck today made it certain. I have several white ones opening in another container and I expect they will be fully out tomorrow. Time to get out there and tackle the weeds.
• How much is my time worth? (2/21/2021) - Sunday, February 21, 2021 I got through a lot of my filing cabinet yesterday. There was three years of our personal papers as well as a couple of years of Pat’s business that were no longer needed. As I cleared them out I thought it would take me the rest of the year to shred … Continue reading How much is my time worth? →
• Cleaning (2/20/2021) - Saturday, February 20, 2021 I spend the morning finishing up my cards and I really didn’t feel like starting in on my next project after lunch. See Stacia, I am much more relaxed with this new method. There are a couple of projects on my task list that I’ve been avoiding. They aren’t time sensitive … Continue reading Cleaning →
• Hand stitching can be dangerous (2/19/2021) - Friday, February 19, 2021 I worked on cards again today. I have three tops ready for quilting and I’ll get them started this afternoon before supper. One of the last bits I did to get the tops ready was to baste some small hexagons (one-half inch). When I saw the pattern I knew I had … Continue reading Hand stitching can be dangerous →
• Blocks (2/18/2021) - Thursday, February 18, 2021 Blocks can be tricky. Some are easily pieced and the colour selection for them is obvious. Some are harder to make but once they are done I’m glad I made them. Some teach me a new method and for some I have a tried and true method I use for a … Continue reading Blocks →
• Done (2/17/2021) - Wednesday, February 17, 2021 I spent the morning catching up on two-week’s worth of cross stitching. Of the three on-line projects I’m taking part in, I’m up-to-date on two of them. I’m far behind on the third one and it crossed my mind that I probably should add my Thunderbird to my task list. I’m … Continue reading Done →
• I guess not today (2/16/2021) - Tuesday, February 16, 2021 We had Chinese food last night (left-over from Valentine’s Day) and my fortune cookie mentioned a job I’d been putting off needed to be done. I didn’t have to think about what it meant – time to do some deep cleaning. I thought I would finish my sewing early today and … Continue reading I guess not today →
• Finally (2/15/2021) - Monday, February 15, 2021 I have finally finished the quilt I’ve been working on. It took much longer than I thought it would but then I haven’t quilted a big quilt for so long I’m sure I’ve forgotten how long the last one took. I don’t have time to get a photo today and write … Continue reading Finally →
• Quite a weekend (2/12/2021) - Friday, February 12, 2021 Today is the Lunar New Year. I always remember Gung Hey Fat Choy from Elizabeth when she is in elementary school and they were celebrating. At one point we even made fortune cookies. Sunday is Valentine’s Day and then Monday is Family Day so the Covid-19 briefing today was full of … Continue reading Quite a weekend →
• Vacation Time (2/11/2021) - Thursday, February 11, 2021 Vacation Time is the name of this pattern and by the time it is finished I will definitely want a vacation. It was a Guild Mystery Block of the Month from several years ago. Had I known what the pattern was called I would have picked different colours – more seashore-like. … Continue reading Vacation Time →
• The view from here (2/10/2021) - Wednesday, February 10, 2021 I’m quilting today and will be for the next several days. And in case you can’t see out the window … yes, that’s snow!
• Positives and Negatives (2/8/2021) - Monday, February 8, 2021 I’m struggling (just a little) to get off my regular schedule and into non-schedule where I finish a project before moving on to something else. Today, when I was trying to finish a small project, I wanted very badly to set it aside and do something else. I was using my … Continue reading Positives and Negatives →
• That’s unusual (2/7/2021) - Sunday, February 7, 2021 I couldn’t believe the time when I woke up this morning. It was 8:30 and what woke me up was the sun shining in through the window. Not only is it unusual for me to sleep that late, but also unusual to have such bright sunshine in the morning (we don’t … Continue reading That’s unusual →
• I’m not convinced (2/6/2021) - Saturday, February 6, 2021 After four days, my log cabin blocks are finished. I was so tired of them by the time I finished that it was just an exercise in perseverance to get them done. The good news is that I’m happy with them but I don’t know if doing one project at a … Continue reading I’m not convinced →
• Round and round (2/5/2021) - Friday, February 5, 2021 Another full day of log cabin blocks and no end in sight for at least another day. One of our Guild members said she thought there was about 80″ of sewing in each block. When I did the math for 28 blocks I thought I was getting close to half a … Continue reading Round and round →
• Switching up the schedule (2/4/2021) - Thursday, February 4, 2021 I was scheduled to be quilting a UFO today but I just can’t leave those log cabin quilts alone. I know I put off quilting whenever possible but I’m switching up the schedule so I’ll have a couple of days of quilting time in a row. I’m still a long way … Continue reading Switching up the schedule →
• Cards (2/3/2021) - Wednesday, February 3, 2021 I walked up to the mailbox this morning and put some Valentine cards into today’s mail. It can’t be predicted how long anything takes to get anywhere, regardless of whether it is sent regular or expedited post. I hope I’ve allowed enough time for them to get to their destinations. Today … Continue reading Cards →
• Too early to know (2/2/2021) - Tuesday, February 2, 2021 I was sewing with the Guild today but before I signed on I wanted to get one of my log cabin blocks finished. For that reason, I was late signing in. I had no problem with the centre of the block and the first log, but somehow I then stitched more … Continue reading Too early to know →
• What day is it? (2/1/2021) - Monday, February 1, 2021 I know it’s Monday because I had my weekly online chat. Monday is meant to be a quilting day for me, and the first of the month means I get to start a new UFO. When I looked for the project that came up on my list I couldn’t find it … Continue reading What day is it? →
• 4 Projects (1/31/2021) - Sunday, January 31, 2021 I spent all day cross stitching and I have very little to show for it. There were four projects and I did a little bit on each one. This is the result of my first month in a stitch-along. I’m pleased that I have been able to keep up, but there … Continue reading 4 Projects →
• I’m just not into it today (1/30/2021) - Saturday, January 30, 2021 I can’t seem to settle at anything today so I’m not going to bother trying. I finished my Alias Grace block before a very late breakfast. This is Diane’s birthday and sometimes, since her death, I have made something for myself on this day. I sorted out a pattern (a cover … Continue reading I’m just not into it today →
• What a mess (1/29/2021) - Friday, January 29, 2021 Today was a scrappy day and I’ve certainly made a mess – but enjoyed every minute of it. I put together 13 more blocks for the scrappy quilt I’m making with my Leaders and Enders. I’m more than half-way done which was a surprise when I counted things because they are … Continue reading What a mess →
• Is it a good thing? (1/28/2021) - Thursday, January 28, 2021 I’ve always had this problem. Even before I’ve finished one project I’ve thought of several more I’d like to do. It happened when I was knitting (hence all my yarn), it happened with cross stitching (hence all my floss and patterns) and it happens with quilting (hence all my fabric and … Continue reading Is it a good thing? →
• Trip to the Quilt Shop (1/27/2021) - Wednesday, January 27, 2021 I made this card awhile ago but I’ve been waiting until it was closer to my friend’s birthday to deliver it. Barb, a quilter from Texada, works in the new quilt shop and her birthday is on Sunday. I took advantage of “having” to go to the shop to have my … Continue reading Trip to the Quilt Shop →
• Sewing with the Guild (1/26/2021) - Tuesday, January 26, 2021 Today was a Guild Zoom sewing bee; I often just sign on to say hello and then sign off again until lunch and Show and Tell. That was my original plan but since I needed to have my laptop open to see my pattern I stayed in the Zoom meeting all … Continue reading Sewing with the Guild →
• Who would have thought (1/25/2021) - Monday, January 25, 2021 Today was a quilting day on my task calendar and I was actually looking forward to it – now that is a huge surprise! But first I wanted to finish up the cross stitching I was working on yesterday; I figured it would take only a few minutes. However I was … Continue reading Who would have thought →
• Catching up (1/24/2021) - Sunday, January 24, 2021 I started my day by pressing and trimming some of the leaders and enders for my scrappy quilt. From there I moved on to trimming down some scraps and that led me to reorganize a few of my scrap bins. The extra floss for my cross stitch project arrived on Friday … Continue reading Catching up →
• On a roll (1/23/2021) - Saturday, January 23, 2021 My day has been going splendidly. I finished another Alias Grace block first thing this morning; I think I’m at least half-way done. The block was easy; I had a pattern and all I had to do was enlarge it a bit. I had a couple of calendar blocks packaged up … Continue reading On a roll →
• Fresh air (1/22/2021) - Friday, January 22, 2021 My plan for the day was to chat with Stacia and Deloise, do a little sewing and then go outside for some yard work. The morning was cold with some frost on the grass but I knew it would be a sunny day and I’ve been wanting to clean up outside … Continue reading Fresh air →
• One empty bin (1/21/2021) - Thursday, January 21, 2021 I’ve managed to empty out one of my bins of yarn. I posted an afghan earlier and I finished another one. Although it is hard to see this actually has four different shades of pink. It is longer and skinnier than I would have liked but it will cover someone’s knees … Continue reading One empty bin →
• Paper Piecing (1/20/2021) - Wednesday, January 20, 2021 Part 3 of one of my cross stitch-alongs was released today and so far I’m two weeks behind. When Part 2 came out I was ready to stitch but when I went to find the right colour of floss I didn’t have it. At the end of last year I placed … Continue reading Paper Piecing →
• Guild Day (1/19/2021) - Tuesday, January 19, 2021 The Guild was set up today for a Zoom sewing day. The “usuals” showed up and we had about a dozen who joined. I checked in a couple of times. Since I’m working on the Guild Challenge I wasn’t able to share any of my stitching. A group of women from … Continue reading Guild Day →
• I don’t get out much anymore (1/17/2021) - Sunday, January 17, 2021 My car battery has been dead for almost a week. I don’t even remember the last time I drove it anywhere but when I went out last Wednesday to be sure it would run for an appointment on Friday I couldn’t even unlock the doors. I plugged in my trickle charger … Continue reading I don’t get out much anymore →
• It’s good to have a critic in the house (1/16/2021) - Saturday, January 16, 2021 I was working on an Alias Grace block today. I knew it was going to be hard because I didn’t have an actual pattern and it wasn’t one I could easily sketch out. But I found a couple of patterns online that were similar and copied them as best I could. … Continue reading It’s good to have a critic in the house →
• Finishing (1/15/2021) - Friday, January 15, 2021 I finished up one of my scrappy projects today and I got a few extra blocks done for another. This is the second pinwheel project I’ve done in a row and I’m pretty tired of pinwheels. When I picked this leader and ender project from all the others I could have … Continue reading Finishing →
• On the 3rd day of quilting (1/14/2021) - Thursday, January 14, 2021 On the 3rd day of quilting I’m so sick of scraps – come on, I know you were singing. No pictures to show today but I’ve been working hard. I managed to finish cutting, pressing and trimming all 300 half-square triangles. I have about half of the blocks clipped together for … Continue reading On the 3rd day of quilting →
• Slow going (1/13/2021) - Wednesday, January 13, 2021 I did my ruler quilting this morning and it went quite well; I felt comfortable with the tool and it was nice to be doing more than just practising. I stayed focused and didn’t stray from the ruler edge as I sometimes did when I practised. My stitch length varied quite … Continue reading Slow going →
• Scrappy Day (1/12/2021) - Tuesday, January 12, 2021 It has been so much fun today working online with Stacia and Deloise – and we have a couple more days set aside for this. At Christmas I gave both Stacia and Deloise a set of postcards (I had a set for myself) that had patterns for miniature quilts; there was … Continue reading Scrappy Day →
• More ruler practice (1/11/2021) - Monday, January 11, 2021 In spite of the fact that Deloise said I was cheating by sewing the lines of my half-square triangles before we start our session tomorrow, I finished the lines on mine. They haven’t been cut, pressed or trimmed so there will still be plenty of work to do after we officially … Continue reading More ruler practice →
• A little of this and that (1/10/2021) - Sunday, January 10, 2021 A little of this … the first instructions for the Ornament of the Month stitch along I’m following. It is more difficult to stitch on red than I thought it would be but I have a package of this red fabric and another of green fabric (purchased I might add from … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• Harder than it should have been (1/9/2021) - Saturday, January 9, 2021 I thought today would be an easy day. I’d get my Alias Grace block finished and stitch together a few squares for half-square triangles. I knew the block I was making wasn’t a common one; it took me a long time to find a pattern than I could copy as there … Continue reading Harder than it should have been →
• Cutting and cutting (1/8/2021) - Friday, January 8, 2021 It is a good thing I managed to get something accomplished last night because I certainly have little to show for today’s time. This is the first of what I hope will be many afghans for donation this year. It took a bit of time to figure out the crochet stitch … Continue reading Cutting and cutting →
• I needed a change (1/7/2021) - Thursday, January 7, 2021 I have a schedule that helps to keep me on track and not too bored with my projects. Wednesday is usually a day for making cards; even if I don’t have any cards that are due I try to keep ahead by making card tops. I also work towards my UFO … Continue reading I needed a change →
• Spring is coming (1/6/2021) - Wednesday, January 6, 2021 Although we had some rain this morning the latest storm seems to have blown itself out. There was even a bit of sunshine in the early afternoon. I had a peek out at the deck during that period of sunshine and was very surprised to see my crocus bulbs are starting … Continue reading Spring is coming →
• Zoom stitching (1/5/2021) - Tuesday, January 5, 2021 In a perfect world today would have been a sewing day with the Guild. We tried a get-together over Zoom today and it worked out well. We usually averaged half a dozen participants at any one time but people came on and went off during our time. We’ll try this again … Continue reading Zoom stitching →
• New Tricks (1/4/2021) - Monday, January 4, 2021 New Tricks … the title of a new favourite on Netflix but not the point of this post. Last year I thought I might sell my quilting rulers as I wasn’t using them and they weren’t cheap. But then I decided I really hadn’t given them a good try. I took … Continue reading New Tricks →
• Am I crazy? (1/3/2021) - Sunday, January 3, 2021 I did some cleaning up today – in the house and in my sewing room. I’ve been having some issues with my wrists; they’ve always bothered me when I crochet and lately I’ve done a lot of it. Today I realized that scrubbing floors hurts them as much as crocheting so … Continue reading Am I crazy? →
• It was worth it (1/2/2021) - Saturday, January 2, 2021 Back to normal might just be a dream, but I’m certainly looking forward to getting back on schedule. I’ve enjoyed a long break, stitching whatever I felt like whenever I felt like it. I had my sewing machines back from the technician for a couple of days before I even bothered … Continue reading It was worth it →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2021) - January 1, 2021 I think most people will have the same hope this year as I do – that we can all get our Covid vaccination and we can start getting back into some sort of routine that involves seeing other people and moving about the province and, at the very least, the country. My … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• Checking Up (12/31/2020) - Thursday, December 31, 2020 Photos – I really hoped to get at my bins of photos but I’m not sure I even opened one of those bins. I sorted through a few digital photos though. Music – I mentioned last year that I wasn’t enjoying the concerts as no matter if they were Home Routes, … Continue reading Checking Up →
• I found a home for it (12/29/2020) - Tuesday, December 29, 2020 This summer when we planned to have all the kids here I had a basket full of quilting that I wanted them to go through and pick out whatever they wanted. Of course we never got together and my basket is overflowing even after Pat has taken a few for himself. … Continue reading I found a home for it →
• 12 Days to Christmas (12/27/2020) - Sunday, December 27, 2020 I have the most fun as I prepare for my 12-Days package that goes to each of the kids. My Christmas present ideas are usually pretty lame (gift cards) so I like to have some fun with the pre-Christmas presents. Pieces of a puzzle filled up four days, scattered throughout the … Continue reading 12 Days to Christmas →
• Merry Christmas (12/24/2020) - 2020 Merry Christmas from my mouse to your house!
• A bit of fun (12/23/2020) - Wednesday, December 23, 2020 No chance for any sewing today. I called the “machine guy” and he said to bring my machines in right away as he was home. I didn’t even have time to clean them. I was in a bit of a panic as I couldn’t find the cover for either of the … Continue reading A bit of fun →
• I’m done (12/22/2020) - Tuesday, December 22, 2020 I don’t think I could take another sewing stitch – not even on a new and exciting project. Yesterday I finished another row on That Fairy Tale Quilt and today I finished the top for the Guild mystery. I think I’ll clean my sewing room tomorrow, clean and oil both of … Continue reading I’m done →
• No turning back (12/21/2020) - Monday, December 21, 2020 I’ve spent the last several evenings trying to get started on a crocheted afghan. I found a pattern I liked but there were seven rows involved and there was no way I could concentrate on whatever show we were watching and keep track of where I was. So I switched to … Continue reading No turning back →
• What now? (12/19/2020) - Saturday, December 19, 2020 I didn’t plan a whole lot for the day but what was planned (an Alias Grace block) was finished before I stopped for lunch. I did a bit of tidying up but it is still early afternoon. We have a couple of online concerts this afternoon but the first one doesn’t … Continue reading What now? →
• Stormy weather (12/18/2020) - Friday, December 18, 2020 We were warned that we were in for a storm and it arrived right on time. The Texada ferry ran earlier today because I saw it at seven when I was making coffee and again about nine when I went down for a second cup. The ferry to Comox isn’t running … Continue reading Stormy weather →
• Sun, whales and a walk (12/17/2020) - Thursday, December 17, 2020 The sun came back today after being “away” for a long time. I haven’t heard the mouse singing but had it been in the right spot I’m sure it would have been. While we were having lunch we were watching a couple, maybe three, humpback whales. A couple of the spouts … Continue reading Sun, whales and a walk →
• There will be light (12/16/2020) - Wednesday, December 16, 2020 I have a great light next to my chair in the basement and I can see really well to stitch while we watch TV in the evening. I’ve struggled to find a light that works as well next to my chair in the living room. We bought a set of lights … Continue reading There will be light →
• Sometimes this is the hardest part (12/15/2020) - Tuesday, December 15, 2020 Sometimes coming up with a title is the trickiest part of this journal, particularly when it was a routine day without any surprises. I got a lot of computer work done this morning; I have a number of task reminders that come up at the middle of the month. We had … Continue reading Sometimes this is the hardest part →
• It worked (12/14/2020) - Monday, December 14, 2020 I tried to fix my knitted hat last night but I ended up ripping it all out and starting over. I’m more familiar with the pattern now and I’m hopeful there will be no mistakes. I was anxious to try my new sewing setup and I’m pleased to say it worked … Continue reading It worked →
• I’m hoping it works (12/13/2020) - Sunday, December 13, 2020 I was enjoying working on a new hat pattern the last few evenings but I worried that I didn’t have enough yarn. Sure enough I was seeing the end of the spool and I still had at least half an inch to knit plus the decreases for the crown. My first … Continue reading I’m hoping it works →
• I thought I’d get more done (12/12/2020) - Saturday, December 12, 2020 I didn’t have much planned for the day and, in my mind, I even thought i would finished off the border on my pinwheel quilt. I made an Alias Grace block this morning. It was one that I had to design on my own based on the picture in the book. … Continue reading I thought I’d get more done →
• Well that was fun! (12/11/2020) - Friday, December 11, 2020 I’ve been making pinwheels for probably a year for a scrap quilt that I designed. It seemed like the two-and-a-half inch blocks would never been finished but I finally got the right number made last week. I had been trying to work at sewing the rows of pinwheels together while working … Continue reading Well that was fun! →
• A fun day (12/10/2020) - Thursday, December 10, 2020 I allowed myself to be totally self-indulgent today and I’ve had a marvellous time. This month I’m working on That Fairy Tale Quilt and today I made the Three Little Pigs and some mushrooms. I’m not sure where the mushrooms fit into the pig story but the ones I made look … Continue reading A fun day →
• Back to the drawing board (12/9/2020) - Wednesday, December 9, 2020 I made one of my Splendid Sampler bonus blocks this morning. The book is finished but there are a number of seasonally-themed bonus blocks. I’m anxious to be able to say, truthfully, that the Splendid Sampler is done. My thought was that I would play when the block was done but … Continue reading Back to the drawing board →
• Where did the day go? (12/8/2020) - Tuesday, December 8, 2020 I had an early start this morning and my task list for the day wasn’t large. I managed to get everything done but I certainly didn’t think it would take me all day. I had a few things to do as a result of the Hall meeting last night. I’ve sprinkled … Continue reading Where did the day go? →
• Binding (12/7/2020) - Monday, December 7, 2020 Today was a “quilting” day according to my schedule. Although I have a lot of quilts and wall hangings that need to be quilted, I also had three birthday cards that were ready for quilting. I picked the easier of the choices and worked on my cards. I usually do an … Continue reading Binding →
• Too much time (12/6/2020) - Sunday, December 6, 2020 I have everything Christmassy in the mail and some of the packages have already reached their destination. Most years I get the main parcels sent and then work on the smaller items. But I put the last of the packages in the mail a couple of days ago so now what? … Continue reading Too much time →
• McKnight Christmas Coffee (12/5/2020) - Saturday, December 5, 2020 For many years Stacia and Deloise have hosted a get-together for all the McKnights and their children and grandchildren. I’ve been lucky enough to attend one of those events and it is lovely to see everyone (from every generation) and catch up on family news. With Covid in the air, this … Continue reading McKnight Christmas Coffee →
• Just when I thought I’d skip (12/4/2020) - Friday, December 4, 2020 This is about my usual time to post a journal entry but since I’ve been mainly cleaning, decorating and doing laundry all day I thought I might just skip the day. But as I was clearing up a pile of scraps in my sewing room I heard an odd noise from … Continue reading Just when I thought I’d skip →
• Little Red (12/3/2020) - Thursday, December 3, 2020 My UFO for December is That Fairy Tale Quilt. I bought the pattern in 2018 when I was at Quilt Canada and I started it on a sewing week in 2019 with Stacia and Deloise. Although I knew I had made a mistake in putting Red Riding Hood together I thought … Continue reading Little Red →
• Back on track (12/2/2020) - Wednesday, December 2, 2020 Let me just say that the carrot/pineapple cake that I made yesterday (from Mum’s recipe book) is absolutely delicious. Pat occasionally (many months ago now) purchased a carrot cake from one of the local grocery stores; mine is better! As good as the cake is, I wonder if I made it … Continue reading Back on track →
• On a roll? (12/1/2020) - Tuesday, December 1, 2020 Since my iPad is of little use these days I bring my first cup of coffee upstairs to my computer. I paid some bills, sorted out my December UFO project and got my 2021 UFO list completed. Most of the projects came from my 2020 UFO list but I did complete … Continue reading On a roll? →
• Happy Birthday Mum (11/30/2020) - November 30, 2020 Slowly, so very slowly, I am using up some of the yarn I have stashed in bins all over the house – and I must not forget the trunk full of it in the shed. I knit or crochet most evenings and whatever I make is usually donated to the Salvation Army … Continue reading Happy Birthday Mum →
• Loose ends (11/30/2020) - Monday, November 30, 2020 I’m a bit at loose ends today. I wanted to drop off my donations to the Salvation Army after lunch but that left a morning to fill. I wrapped a couple of gifts and got them ready for the mail even though I have no intention of mailing them until later … Continue reading Loose ends →
• Bored or boring? (11/29/2020) - Sunday, November 29, 2020 I’ve missed a few posts over this past week and I must admit I’ve not minded. It is often a struggle to think of something interesting to say about what is usually, for me, a rather routine and boring day. I’ve been wanting to redo my website for awhile and I … Continue reading Bored or boring? →
• Whew! (11/27/2020) - Friday, November 27, 2020 Some of these masks were refits on the two-layer masks and some were new. All of them have the bag filter and, with the exception of Mickey, both of the other layers are batiks. I hoped to get them sent in the Christmas boxes but that didn’t work so I had … Continue reading Whew! →
• Big job done (11/25/2020) - Wednesday, November 25, 2020 I was hoping that my last packages would be delivered today and while I waited I finished wrapping everything I had. When that task was done I started to take apart some of the masks that have been sent back to me so I can add an extra layer; Kathryn sent … Continue reading Big job done →
• Where are the elves when you need them? (11/24/2020) - Tuesday, November 24, 2020 I started working on my 12-Days packages this morning. I hadn’t gone very far when I realized I was missing a critical piece for one of the bags, as well as needing more gift bags. While I was out I also picked up more tape, more tissue paper, and more elastic … Continue reading Where are the elves when you need them? →
• Ready (11/23/2020) - Monday, November 23, 2020 My last package from amazon arrived today – a day earlier than scheduled but I’m not complaining. There is no excuse now for not getting my 12-Days of Christmas packages into the mail in plenty of time for the start. I finished quilting my cards today. There are quite a few … Continue reading Ready →
• Lazy Afternoon (11/22/2020) - Sunday, November 22, 2020 I slept until almost nine this morning; I couldn’t believe the time when I woke up. And none of that waking and dozing, waking and dozing, I slept soundly all the way through. I did a bit of work in the sewing room this morning. I trimmed up some half-square triangles … Continue reading Lazy Afternoon →
• Let there be light (11/21/2020) - Saturday, November 21, 2020 I’m in my studio a lot; I’m sewing a lot and often without my glasses. Over the past few weeks I’ve been noticing how hard it is to see at my cutting table. My sewing machines all have lights so it isn’t too bad when I’m actually stitching but prep work … Continue reading Let there be light →
• A good few days (11/20/2020) - Three days of sewing with Stacia and Deloise and another day of taking care of some computer work leaves me pretty much caught up. For the first day of sewing I worked on a Christmas gift so, obviously, no photo. By the end of the three days the gift was done and ready to be … Continue reading A good few days →
• A little progress (11/16/2020) - Monday, November 16, 2020 I’ve been working all day and making a bit of progress. I’m down to 9 items on my Reminders and 26 items flagged through e-mail. I ventured out this morning to take care of a few errands. It was the first time I’ve been in the mall since March. I went … Continue reading A little progress →
• A few days off and wham! (11/15/2020) - Sunday, November 15, 2020 My three-day retreat is over – at least I’ve run out of energy. Day One was fantastic. A project done from start to finish, including quilting and tying in ends. Day Two was productive but things took longer than I expected. I knew today’s project was doable but I’m later finishing … Continue reading A few days off and wham! →
• Ready (11/12/2020) - Thursday, November 12, 2020 It took all morning but I think I have all of my cutting done for projects I intend to work on over the weekend – my Texada-Retreat-at Home. Pat purchased more groceries today so I have a few treats for myself should I actually feel like I deserve something. I have … Continue reading Ready →
• What do you think? (11/11/2020) - Wednesday, November 11, 2020 It has been eight months since we first started self-isolating due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It has been inconvenient but I certainly don’t consider it as any sort of sacrifice. As I listen to the radio today, on this Remembrance Day, hosts are speaking of the sacrifices made by our veterans … Continue reading What do you think? →
• I hope I don’t hang myself (11/10/2020) - Tuesday, November 10, 2020 I took care of some computer work this morning before heading out to do a few errands. It’s cold today so I added a scarf around my neck. My first stop was the fabric store. Lately I’ve been taking off my glasses when I put on my mask; they are on … Continue reading I hope I don’t hang myself →
• No confidence (11/9/2020) - Monday, November 9, 2020 It’s been one of “those” days and my level of confidence has dipped. I had more problems with my grocery order this morning but I managed to get the groceries delivered. Pat had warned me that Safari, as a browser, hadn’t worked for him so I put in my order via … Continue reading No confidence →
• Not according to plan (11/8/2020) - Sunday, November 8, 2020 I intended to go out for groceries first thing this morning but it was cold (I know not all that cold, but cold) so I decided to do an online order. We had groceries delivered at the beginning of the pandemic and we are under almost the same lockdown now as … Continue reading Not according to plan →
• Oops! (11/7/2020) - Saturday, November 7, 2020 I was enjoying a visit with Kathryn this morning. I was in the “room across the hall” sitting in the “new” rocking chair. My Hex-Along top was sitting on the floor as I was testing various backgrounds for the piece. Mid-conversation I realized there was a mistake. I had two hexagons … Continue reading Oops! →
• Some for everybody (11/6/2020) - Friday, November 6, 2020 I’ve had another full day of mask-making but they are done now and in the laundry. They won’t go out in the mail until Monday but I hope they won’t take too long to get to their various destinations. I took all the photos before they went into the wash; even … Continue reading Some for everybody →
• Testing 1 – 2 – 3 (11/5/2020) - Thursday, November 5, 2020 I was able to find a number of bags to cut up and use as filters in this new batch of masks. I’m hoping I will have enough elastic so each person will get at least one filtered mask. I’ll get the “old” masks back over the next while and I’ll … Continue reading Testing 1 – 2 – 3 →
• Masks (11/4/2020) - Wednesday, November 4, 2020 I’ve lost count of how many masks I’ve made since the pandemic started. I’ve sent them to Christy, Kathryn and Elizabeth and both Christy and Elizabeth have passed them along to friends. Yesterday Health Canada announced that non-medical masks should now have three layers of fabric; the masks I’ve made have … Continue reading Masks →
• Like a Guild day (11/3/2020) - Tuesday, November 3, 2020 It was almost like being back at the Guild today – except quieter and lonelier. I started the day getting everything set to release Clue 2 of the mystery quilt later this week. I have most of the clues prepped but I like to do a last minute look-see and I … Continue reading Like a Guild day →
• Challenges (11/2/2020) - Monday, November 2, 2020 On the first day of the month I’m supposed to find out what my monthly UFO will be. I noticed once before though that when the first falls on a weekend we don’t get the magic number until the following Monday. I only have two UFOs left on my list; they … Continue reading Challenges →
• It used to be easier (11/1/2020) - Sunday, November 1, 2020 Pat bought a new-to-us chair a little while ago. We had it delivered and I was able to bring it in off the back deck on my own. I didn’t like the feel of it but it stayed where it was until the next time Pat came home. Pat felt the … Continue reading It used to be easier →
• Happy Hallowe’en (10/31/2020) - Saturday, October 31, 2020 I haven’t made a daily block for quite awhile as I always seem to have something more important to work on. I didn’t have anything in particular planned for today and this block seemed like a fun one to use with some of my novelty fabric. I sent out masks with … Continue reading Happy Hallowe’en →
• Side affects (10/30/2020) - Friday, October 30, 2020 Earlier this afternoon the title of this piece was going to be “What a great day” but I didn’t have a great afternoon and I needed to blame it on something (not me!). I worked on a 12-Days project this morning until it was time to go for my shingles vaccine. … Continue reading Side affects →
• Half PJ Day (10/29/2020) - Thursday, October 29, 2020 I was interrupted today when I was getting dressed and I decided there was no real reason I should finish the job. I’ve had a very comfortable day in my pyjama pants but with a shirt on top for those occasions when I’m on a Facebook video chat. I think I … Continue reading Half PJ Day →
• Big news day (10/26/2020) - Monday, October 26, 2020 I don’t pay a lot of attention to the news. I may hear it once in the morning and I usually catch the evening news, both local, provincial and federal. I heard that the Liberal leader was holding a news conference this afternoon so I decided to listen in while I … Continue reading Big news day →
• Scrappy Day (10/25/2020) - Sunday, October 25, 2020 It was my intention today to clean up my sewing room. I haven’t done it for quite awhile and I’m starting work on a new project tomorrow so I didn’t want too much mess lying around. The scrap basket I keep on my cutting table was stuffed full so I started … Continue reading Scrappy Day →
• October UFO – Done (10/24/2020) - Saturday, October 24, 2020 I finished all the blocks for this while I was on Texada but I got them sewn together today. It went quite quickly in spite of an error I made. One row of blocks was put together in the wrong order but I switched the middle for the top and put … Continue reading October UFO – Done →
• To mitre or not? (10/23/2020) - Friday, October 23, 2020 I thought I finished this project yesterday but after taking a photograph I decided it needed a border. I had enough of the background fabric to do a small border; I didn’t want it to grow too large. Pat thought it needed a dark flange to add some interest but I … Continue reading To mitre or not? →
• Snow? (10/22/2020) - Thursday, October 22, 2020 At lunch I heard there was a special weather advisory for the Island. I didn’t hear what the advisory was for but this afternoon, while listening to the radio, I heard it again. They are saying some places are going to get snow tonight. I quickly took a look at the … Continue reading Snow? →
• Bear Watch (10/21/2020) - Wednesday, October 21, 2020 We have a motion detection light mounted on our deck. It goes off quite often and when we first got it I would peek out the window to see what might have set it off. I could never see anything so assumed it was set off by one of the neighbourhood … Continue reading Bear Watch →
• Don’t ask (10/20/2020) - Tuesday, October 20, 2020 I started this journal, in part, as a way to keep me positive when I was feeling a bit down. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t suffer from depression in the way that I know some people do. But this Covid-19 isolation is getting me down, in particular because it has … Continue reading Don’t ask →
• Shot (10/19/2020) - Monday, October 19, 2020 Before I left for Texada Taylor requested masks made from cow fabric. I didn’t have any cotton fabric so I checked at the fabric shop; they didn’t have anything either. What I had was some cow-like flannel fabric (white with black splotches all over it) and the sewing crew seemed to … Continue reading Shot →
• A productive week (10/18/2020) - Sunday, October 18, 2020 I’m quite pleased with my accomplishments for my week on Texada. My big goals were accomplished. I still had a few things I could have worked on but I decided I’d done enough so I packed everything up and spent what extra time I had starting a new book. Clockwise from … Continue reading A productive week →
• A few of my favourite things (10/15/2020) - Thursday, October 15, 2020 I’m enjoying a day away from my sewing machine and surrounded by a few of my favourite things. Coffee in my new Grandma birthday cup. Some cross stitching (and a small plant pot from Diane for my clippings). My puzzle book (with pencil, eraser, sharpener and pen for the odd time … Continue reading A few of my favourite things →
• Happy Thanksgiving (10/11/2020) - Sunday, October 11, 2020 I picked the right day to come over to Texada. Friday was an absolute gale and Saturday was supposed to be nasty as well. Pat and I looked at the weather forecasts and thought an earlier ferry on Saturday was my best bet. The crossing was glorious and I even stood … Continue reading Happy Thanksgiving →
• It’s the boy’s turn today (10/9/2020) - Friday, October 9, 2020 No, Ron and Laurie have not taken over the sewing room! I’m still working along with Stacia and Deloise. My music choices today are the men – starting off with David Francey, moving on to Elton John, and finishing the afternoon with Fred Eaglesmith. If I last long enough Garth Brooks … Continue reading It’s the boy’s turn today →
• Some of my favourite ladies (10/8/2020) - Thursday, October 8, 2020 I’ve had the best day – and it’s not over yet. Stacia, Deloise and I started sewing this morning and have checked in with each other several times during the day. Not a surprise, but they are way ahead of me on the project but I expected that. They were already … Continue reading Some of my favourite ladies →
• And so it starts (10/7/2020) - Wednesday, October 7, 2020 I had a couple of things that needed to go out in the mail today so I walked up to the letter box to post them and I stopped at the fabric shop on my way home. Based on my earlier experience I had my rain hat on for the journey. … Continue reading And so it starts →
• Never again (10/6/2020) - Tuesday, October 6, 2020 I spent some time this morning doing some work resulting from the board meeting last night – cheques to write and record, some messages to send and some filing. Last night I wrote a couple of cheques for board members and then left the Hall without distributing them. One person came … Continue reading Never again →
• I’m ready (10/5/2020) - Monday, October 5, 2020 I was up early to make it to the grocery store in their senior’s time period. I didn’t want to go too early though as I wanted to go to the post office before I came home. I picked up a few groceries for Thanksgiving – turkey breast, stuffing mix, and … Continue reading I’m ready →
• It isn’t just fog (10/4/2020) - Sunday, October 4, 2020 I finished my first Alias Grace block yesterday. I had to design this one based on the sketch at the front of the first section of the book and I’m glad it was such an easy one. I’ve looked at the second block and it is a different size but I … Continue reading It isn’t just fog →
• Another day gone (10/2/2020) - Friday, October 2, 2020 I had plans for today and if it was still ten in the morning I’d be doing very well. But since it is after three in the afternoon I haven’t really done very well. While I was turning over my daily calendar this block came up. I knew that I’d made … Continue reading Another day gone →
• More masks (9/30/2020) - Wednesday, September 30, 2020 Card-making was on my schedule for today. There are no October birthdays but Hallowe’en is coming up so I’m working on some themed masks to send out to my grandchildren. I know some of the grandkids don’t wear these homemade ones but it makes me feel better to be sending them … Continue reading More masks →
• Almost like being there (9/29/2020) - Tuesday, September 29, 2020 I spent all morning finishing off the half-square triangles for the mystery quilt. I also did some work on last week’s hexie clue; the next clue was released today and I’m really quite behind on that project. This afternoon I watched a virtual tour of the Amalfi Coast. The tour covered … Continue reading Almost like being there →
• A half-square day (9/28/2020) - Monday, September 28, 2020 I didn’t have anything in particular in mind this morning so I started out clearing off my cutting table and sorting some scraps. When I looked at the daily block it seemed like a perfect opportunity to use up some the the scraps that I’ve been collecting. The Guild’s block of … Continue reading A half-square day →
• A little work, a little fun (9/27/2020) - Sunday September 27, 2020 I was out at the grocery store first thing this morning. I was tempted to try Freshco rather than my usual Quality Foods but at the last minute I decided to go where I was most comfortable. Pat shops at Freshco and feels their prices are the best. I’ve only shopped … Continue reading A little work, a little fun →
• Pieces (9/26/2020) - Saturday, September 26, 2020 I’ve had a busy day and I still hope to accomplish a bit more before I stop. Before a chat this morning with Stacia and Deloise I did some tidying and vacuuming downstairs. I had a few things in the closet that had been pulled from the bedroom and bathroom when … Continue reading Pieces →
• Now that’s clean (9/25/2020) - Friday, September 25, 2020 I spent the afternoon yesterday pulling weeds. No, not in my own yard but in the yard at the Hall’s rental house. It wasn’t difficult because pretty much everything in the beds had to come out. I had a friend who is a gardener heading up the task and I always … Continue reading Now that’s clean →
• Meet my new Amigos (9/23/2020) - Wednesday, September 23, 2020 Who knew you could get plants delivered by mail? Christy sent me plants for my birthday, delivered through the post office. They came planted in small pots with a ceramic pot the small container fit into. Everything you need in one big box. The paperwork that came with the plants listed … Continue reading Meet my new Amigos →
• Hunkering down (9/22/2020) - Tuesday, September 22, 2020 As if we haven’t been hunkering down for several months already, we are preparing for our first “vigorous” fall storm tonight. We have been issued both a Wind Warning and a Special Weather Statement. Apparently there are not one, but two, atmospheric rivers headed our way over the night and into … Continue reading Hunkering down →
• The Covids (9/18/2020) - I’ve been making the daily blocks from the Quilters’ Block a Day calendar for what seems like forever. Before the end of the Guild’s year I put together a quilt top for their show and tell. From that point on I’ve been stashing the additional blocks in a drawer but on this trip to the … Continue reading The Covids →
• A few things done today (9/17/2020) - Thursday, September 17, 2020 I planned two things for today in my sewing room. I wanted to get the Mystery Quilt Deloise and I have been working on finished today. The designer is asking for photos by the first week of October; I decided that since I was added on as her first BC participant … Continue reading A few things done today →
• It’s good to be home (9/16/2020) - Wednesday, September 16, 2020 It’s good to be home but I’ve had a much busier day than I had on any day at the studio. We came home on the early ferry so I’ve had most of the day at home, and most of that time has been spent at my desk. I talked to … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• It’s not all play (9/13/2020) - Sunday, September 13, 2020 I’ve been enjoying my time on Texada – sewing, reading, and knitting – but it hasn’t been all play time. We have cut and stacked almost two cords of wood that came from the trees we recently had cut down on the property. A few of them looked not-all-that-stable and Pat … Continue reading It’s not all play →
• Har-dang-it (9/8/2020) - Tuesday, September 8, 2020 I spent most of the morning working on Hall stuff for my meeting tonight. My thought was that now that since I had passed the Secretarial duties on to someone else I wouldn’t have much prep work to do; I guess that won’t happen until the next meeting. Last year I … Continue reading Har-dang-it →
• Labour Day? (9/7/2020) - Monday, September 7, 2020 I know it’s Labour Day but I have to say, for me, it’s been more of a Lazy Day. I went to get groceries first thing but I was home in under an hour. While I had my coffee I started knitting and most of the morning was gone before I … Continue reading Labour Day? →
• Cleaning Up (9/6/2020) - Sunday, September 6, 2020 I’ve been busy cleaning up this morning so not much to show. I took a bit of time to make my daily block, mostly to give myself a break and because it was an easy one. My scraps are overflowing the bin and the basket but right now I’m concentrating on … Continue reading Cleaning Up →
• Production (9/5/2020) - Saturday, September 5, 2020 If you are going to be up at 5:30 in the morning you may as well get something done with the day. And today I was very productive. Two cards done and three daily blocks.
• I had great plans (9/4/2020) - Friday, September 3, 2020 I had great plans for today – finish my Hex-Along clue, get out to the library, send out my report for the Hall board meeting, do my daily block and maybe, just maybe, do another birthday card. I was up at six and things were going very well. The hexies were … Continue reading I had great plans →
• Socializing (9/3/2020) - Thursday, September 3, 2020 Pat came across on the ferry this morning as a walk-on. He had some meds to pick up and some books that had arrived for him so I met him at the ferry and gave him his bag of stuff and a ticket for his return trip. From there I went … Continue reading Socializing →
• What is it? (9/2/2020) - Wednesday, September 2, 2020 Is it a card? No, but that is what I’m supposed to be doing. Is it a daily block? No, but I may still get back to that. Is it a mask? No, although I was disappointed this morning when I went to my fabric stash and didn’t find any good … Continue reading What is it? →
• Lots of work (9/1/2020) - Tuesday, September 1, 2020 I’ve been working all day, hoping for some sort of finish but it isn’t going to happen. Maybe if I work late enough tonight I’ll get something finished. Today was a new UFO number – I’ll be working on my Jelly Roll Rug. This was a Guild class I took, probably … Continue reading Lots of work →
• Back into my routine (8/31/2020) - Monday, August 31, 2020 It probably comes as no surprise that I have a schedule. I don’t always follow it but the schedule is always in the back of my mind. I finished off a hand stitching project last night (a Sunday project) and today I stuck to my planned schedule in spite of a … Continue reading Back into my routine →
• That was fun (8/30/2020) - Sunday, August 30, 2020 True to my plan I worked on my daily blocks today. This block, as well as one a day or two ago, appealed to me and made me want to get back to them. Bigger blocks, a lot of pieces and, often, some mistakes and I didn’t get nearly as many … Continue reading That was fun →
• Surprising (8/29/2020) - Saturday, August 29, 2020 Yesterday I made a deal with myself – work on the appliqué for a day and then spend Saturday on some daily blocks. The appliqué work yesterday had a few issues but by the end of the day I had six of the ten blocks finished. It was too close to … Continue reading Surprising →
• I’m doin’ it (8/28/2020) - Friday, August 28, 2020 To keep myself accountable I’m reporting that I have indeed started the appliqué on my quilt. The first couple of blocks went very well but this latest one has been giving me problems. I bought a new type of sewing needle that was supposed to go through the fusible interfacing without … Continue reading I’m doin’ it →
• Avoidance (8/27/2020) - Thursday, August 27, 2020 It is nearing the end of the month and I’ve done very little to move forward on my August UFO Challenge. I’ve been avoiding it and I know why. The blocks that I’m doing involve appliqué – a lot of appliqué. And I don’t like doing appliqué. I use a product … Continue reading Avoidance →
• Squirrel! (8/26/2020) - Wednesday, August 26, 2020 You’ve heard that expression for when you are involved in something and then are distracted by at least one other thing – Squirrel! Well today it wasn’t squirrel for us. Pat came back from Texada and we were chatting about the renovation plans, new light fixtures he purchased, and any number … Continue reading Squirrel! →
• A pretty easy day (8/25/2020) - Tuesday, August 25, 2020 I started a new book last night but only got a few pages into it before turning off the light and going to sleep. When I checked my mail his morning I was a little disturbed that I had a note from the library that the book was due back in … Continue reading A pretty easy day →
• Computer Day (8/24/2020) - Monday, August 24, 2020 The Hall’s AGM went very well yesterday and, as expected, it was a short one. I wasn’t really tired after it was over but I decided to take a good long break when it was done; I finished some stitching on my Hex-Along as well as some knitting in the evening. … Continue reading Computer Day →
• A little cleaning (8/22/2020) - Saturday, August 22, 2020 I had a short Zoom meeting this morning as we ran through the agenda for the Hall’s AGM tomorrow. And then just after that I did a FaceTime chat with Pat. Through both of those video chats I realized that my sewing room really needed to be cleaned up. I’ll be … Continue reading A little cleaning →
• A little more productive (8/21/2020) - Friday, August 21, 2020 Another rainy day here but I’ve managed to get at some sewing – and some knitting and some reading. I was awake at four this morning and couldn’t go back to sleep so I read until about six and then managed to sleep until shortly after seven. I knit until it … Continue reading A little more productive →
• An extra day (8/20/2020) - Thursday, August 20, 2020 It has been a rainy day and, if I’m honest, I would have really liked to just curl up with my book. But that isn’t what I did. I had a load of laundry finished before ten, and I was set to head out to the library and the Hall when … Continue reading An extra day →
• Back in the sewing room (8/19/2020) - Wednesday, August 19, 2020 It is much cooler today (with a few spits of rain every now and again) so I’m able to work comfortably in my sewing space. I did a bit of work outside this morning while the restoration folks were here working. I have what I call a “potting table” but it … Continue reading Back in the sewing room →
• A bit cooler (8/18/2020) - Tuesday, August 18, 2020 It was another hot, uncomfortable night last night but today seems a bit cooler. When I went to bed last night I wanted to put the fan in a different location; as I was doing that I noticed that Pat’s clock was blinking. During the day yesterday while the work was … Continue reading A bit cooler →
• Way too hot (8/17/2020) - Monday, August 17, 2020 Last night before bed we sat out on the deck and watched a lightening storm all around us – no thunder but big swaths of sheet lightening. About an hour after I turned in there was lots of noise from either heavy rain or hail; it stopped and started three or … Continue reading Way too hot →
• Nothing (8/16/2020) - Sunday, August 16, 2020 You would think after a couple of days I’d have something positive to report, or something to show you. Well I have nothing. I can’t even say what I did on those days to waste all my time. I know I did some yard work and somehow I managed to make … Continue reading Nothing →
• I’m glad that’s done (8/13/2020) - Thursday, August 13, 2020 I went out to the grocery store first thing this morning, before I even had my coffee. I really didn’t want to go but I knew if I sat down with my coffee and my iPad I wouldn’t make it for the senior’s time slot. Once I was home I got … Continue reading I’m glad that’s done →
• Harvesting (8/12/2020) - Wednesday, August 12, 2020 For the last couple of days I’ve seen red through the leaves of the apple tree so I went out this morning to pick them. I don’t often get the variety of apple that turn red; we only get a few and they often fall to the ground before I get … Continue reading Harvesting →
• Nests (8/11/2020) - Tuesday, August 11, 2020 I started my day with a visit from the Orkin man to remove a wasp nest that has been growing and growing over the last month. We first noticed it before our extended stay on Texada; although we were home a couple of times it was never at night so we … Continue reading Nests →
• It’s not going well (8/10/2020) - Monday, August 10, 2020 The goal today was to get at some quilting. Many months ago I started quilting a project in the workshop on Texada. When I worked on other projects at home I realized that quilting wasn’t working well. I thought it was because I didn’t have the sewing table for my quilting … Continue reading It’s not going well →
• Just one more thing (8/9/2020) - Sunday, August 9, 2020 I’ve had a busy day but there is still one more thing to do before I quit for the day. First thing this morning I finished the repairs on Mum’s afghan. When it was done I decided I should throw it in the wash to be sure the fixes I made … Continue reading Just one more thing →
• More masks (8/8/2020) - Saturday, August 8, 2020 I had extra fabric cut for more masks but Christy and I decided that Taylor probably needed something a bit smaller. I found a couple of different patterns online but I decided to go with my familiar pattern but I was able to get the sizes from the new patterns. Now … Continue reading More masks →
• I’m on a roll (8/7/2020) - Friday, August 7, 2020 I planned to stop at the grocery store yesterday after my Guild meeting but when I drove by the parking lot and saw the number of vehicles parked I decided to wait until this morning and go during their “senior” hour. I was home with my groceries before eight. After I … Continue reading I’m on a roll →
• Back on track – almost (8/5/2020) - Wednesday, August 5, 2020 According to my schedule Wednesday is a card-making day. It just so happened that I needed two cards for August birthdays. Both cards are done, wrapped and ready for the mail. It was noon before I finished the cards and I was tempted to get back to the quilt I made … Continue reading Back on track – almost →
• I almost did it (8/4/2020) - Tuesday, August 4, 2020 I had a few errands to do today so I went out early; I was at the grocery store during their “special” time for seniors and the immune-compromise. The other two stops were to drop the masks in the mail (in the drive-through letter box) and to put a Hall deposit … Continue reading I almost did it →
• Ready for the mail (8/3/2020) - Monday, August 3, 2020 I’ve not accomplished very much today and I don’t plan to accomplish much with what is left of the day. I finished the last batches of masks today and they are ready for the mail tomorrow. I have been making my masks using two layers of batik but I see so … Continue reading Ready for the mail →
• Masks (8/2/2020) - Sunday, August 2, 2020 I’ve been making masks all day today. I cut out 28 of them if anyone is counting. I only had enough elastic for 19 so I’ll have to make another trip to the fabric shop; now that they are cut I may as well finish them off. I’ll send a few … Continue reading Masks →
• A little scary (8/1/2020) - Saturday, August 1, 2020 I finished the inventory of all my works in progress, projects not started, and projects ready to be quilted. It is a little scary to see how many of them there are. I’m not even sure I have them all listed; I added them to the inventory as I was moving … Continue reading A little scary →
• I’m taking a day (7/31/2020) - Friday, July 31, 2020 While I waiting on a phone call this morning I finished a daily block – another six-inch quickie. I brought back the sewing table for my quilting machine from Texada. The plan for the day was to move it into place. I wasn’t sure how it would fit in my set-up … Continue reading I’m taking a day →
• I’m set (7/30/2020) - Thursday, July 30, 2020 I probably wouldn’t have done a daily block today but it was a small one and I had some time between other projects. My selection of fabrics certainly fits into the name of the block; all of the pieces came from my scraps and the four-patches were already put together. Now, … Continue reading I’m set →
• Not today (7/23/2020) - Thursday, July 23, 2020 Five years ago (when this photo was taken) almost all of us were together for a few days in the summer; we were missing Dave and Dylan B. The celebration was in honour of my up-coming 65th birthday. We were hoping to do it again this summer for another milestone birthday. … Continue reading Not today →
• I had a plan (7/21/2020) - Tuesday, July 21, 2020 I’m working on my July UFO project – my Cake Mix Recipe using Farmer’s Daughter fabric (both were a gift from Deloise). I haven’t done anything with it since last October when Stacia, Deloise and I were together. When I pulled it out this morning I knew what I was doing … Continue reading I had a plan →
• Unexpected (7/16/2020) - Thursday, July 16, 2020 Yesterday we planned to take the early afternoon ferry across to the studio. But before mid-morning all the ferry service between Powell River and Texada was cancelled due to mechanical problems on the boat. I expected to settle in and get a few of my daily blocks done. I was only … Continue reading Unexpected →
• I may never catch up (7/14/2020) - Tuesday, July 14, 2020 I hoped to get a lot more blocks done today than actually happened. I was out in the yard shortly after eight; the boulevard badly needed mowing and I thought I’d do the grass inside our fence as well. With only a small bit in the centre of the lawn (and … Continue reading I may never catch up →
• I knew it would happen (7/13/2020) - Monday, July 13, 2020 It is going to take me awhile to catch up on these blocks but I managed to get one done today (bringing me up to July 2nd/Block 108). Since March, when not at the studio, I have been amusing myself with a lot of sewing. Generally I have tools that stay … Continue reading I knew it would happen →
• The view today (7/11/2020) - Saturday, July 11, 2020 What is wrong with this? It’s almost the middle of July and we shouldn’t have needed a fire to warm up the studio. But we did, so we had a fire.
• Not how the day was supposed to go (7/7/2020) - Tuesday, July 7, 2020 Pat and I came home yesterday on the late afternoon ferry. We both had online meetings today and Pat wasn’t sure the bandwidth at the studio would be good enough. We also wanted to see a Covid-19 online update regarding Powell River and the Lower Sunshine Coast. By yesterday I knew … Continue reading Not how the day was supposed to go →
• Happy Birthday Elizabeth (7/2/2020) - July 2, 2020 I didn’t make a fabric card for Elizabeth this year, and I didn’t make this card. When we were in Victoria at Christmas I saw this card in one of the book stores. I immediately thought of Elizabeth and bought it. I’m pleased that in the six months between the purchase and … Continue reading Happy Birthday Elizabeth →
• Pics from here and there (7/2/2020) - Thursday, July 2, 2020 I headed outside to the deck for a second time to wait for the hummingbirds to find our feeders. I didn’t expect to see a small lizard sunning himself near my chair. By the time I got my camera (Pat kept his eye on him) he had moved off between the … Continue reading Pics from here and there →
• Happy Canada Day (7/1/2020) - Wednesday, July 1, 2020 (Block 107) It is pretty quiet out on the streets today and there is no sign of any celebrations in honour of the day. I had to do some re-imagining of my daily block to make it more Canadian. The calendar is published in the US so there are a lot … Continue reading Happy Canada Day →
• Most of the day (6/30/2020) - Tuesday, June 30, 2020 (Block 106) I didn’t have anything in particular planned for today except laundry. It’s a good thing as I’ve been either on the phone or at my computer all day. And I’m still not done the laundry. My e-mail account was being migrated to a new platform today and I spent … Continue reading Most of the day →
• Date Day (6/29/2020) - Monday, June 29, 2020 (Block 105) Pat and I went out together this morning for the first time since March 16th. Up until today we hadn’t even been in the same vehicle. Pat goes out occasionally to pick up dinner or to get his prescriptions; I go out occasionally to the library, bank, or post … Continue reading Date Day →
• I can’t do it all (6/28/2020) - Sunday, June 28, 2020 (Block 104) I can’t do it all but I can do quite a bit when I set my mind to it. I made one of Mum’s recipes (Cut Glass Cake) first thing this morning. I made the jello last night; after pouring the water into the pan for one of the … Continue reading I can’t do it all →
• Tidying Up (6/27/2020) - Saturday, June 27, 2020 (Block 103) I spent all morning clearing up the paperwork on my desk (and other surfaces). It wasn’t until after lunch that I got started on my daily block (who names these things?) and when that was done I did some tidying up on my cutting table. I was able to … Continue reading Tidying Up →
• Not a productive day (6/26/2020) - Friday, June 26, 2020 (Block 102) My plan for the day was to finish my daily block, clear up some paperwork and finish the hand stitching on my latest quilt. The block is finished but that is about all I’ve accomplished. I worked all afternoon on paper but only managed to get though Pat’s accounting. … Continue reading Not a productive day →
• Did I pass? (6/25/2020) - Thursday, June 25, 2020 (Block 101) I really like this block and I’ve set aside a copy of the pattern as it would probably work well with my scraps. The block is only six inches but I’ve heard of this pattern before so I can probably find a larger version somewhere. If not, I think … Continue reading Did I pass? →
• One Hundred Days (6/24/2020) - Wednesday, June 24, 2020 (Block 100) I don’t think back in March I expected we’d still need to be so vigilant to keep the corona virus at bay, but I’m having no difficulty staying at home and observing the rules. We’ve begun Phase 3 openings and, because travel within BC is okay, I sincerely hope … Continue reading One Hundred Days →
• Rain Rain Go Away (6/23/2020) - Tuesday, June 23, 2020 (Block 99) My daisies are so close to being out; I think they just need one day of sunshine. There are a few flowers out but when the daisies are “really” out they fill the beds. We woke up to rain this morning but by noon it seemed like it might … Continue reading Rain Rain Go Away →
• Log Cabin Quilting (6/22/2020) - Monday, June 22, 2020 (Block 98) I’m certainly glad that one of my Thursday sewing ladies taught me a new way to deal with those curves. There are so many of them in this block and I never would have got the stitching right. And be honest, could you tell if I had some of … Continue reading Log Cabin Quilting →
• Happy Father’s Day (6/21/2020) - Sunday, June 21, 2020 (Block 97) Happy Father’s Day to all, but particularly to my sons-in-law. My grandchildren (and daughters) are lucky to have you in their lives. It was only recently that I found out that Mum’s Chocolate Angel Food recipe was hiding in the recipe book under Chocolate Vienna Torte. It took me … Continue reading Happy Father’s Day →
• Scrappy day (6/20/2020) - Saturday, June 20, 2020 (Block 96) It was a scrappy day today – and I mean that in the very best sense of the word. My leaders and enders for my pinwheel quilt were a long way from being done so I moved on to a different set of scraps. One of the blogs I … Continue reading Scrappy day →
• Right back into it (6/19/2020) - Friday, June 19, 2020 (Block 95) Since my outing last night counting the “days” doesn’t really fit any longer. I’ll probably continue my daily blocks until I’ve gone through my entire calendar but I hope this pandemic will be over by then. The Guild party last night was good – for the most part we … Continue reading Right back into it →
• The big wide world (6/18/2020) - Thursday, June 18, 2020 (Day/Block 94) I had another online training session this morning but it wasn’t one that was of much interest to me. I always have my mic and camera turned off (unless we are in a break-out room for discussion) so while the topic was being presented I worked on my daily … Continue reading The big wide world →
• What a difference a day makes (6/17/2020) - Wednesday, June 17, 2020 (Day/Block 93) I went from an early finish yesterday to barely getting it done today. Today’s block was 20″ so it took some time (as well as fabric) to put it together. And of course there was that one flying goose that was headed the wrong way when I had it … Continue reading What a difference a day makes →
• A Covid Quilt Top (6/16/2020) - Tuesday, June 16, 2020 (Day/Block 92) I had fun with today’s block. I didn’t use the colours that were shown in the photo because it meant having to cut into some yardage and I’m really trying to make these daily blocks from my scraps. This was an easy one to put a story to. It’s … Continue reading A Covid Quilt Top →
• I need a reading week (6/15/2020) - Monday, June 15, 2020 (Day/Block 91) I had another call from the library today – they have another book for me. I went online and I see that I have one more book on order. Hopefully I’ll have at least one of my current books finished before I get a call about that one. If … Continue reading I need a reading week →
• Clean up and cross stitch (6/14/2020) - Sunday, June 14, 2020 (Day/Block 90) You can imagine that the photo on the calendar made use of red, white and blue as a salute to you-know-what-country. I’m not sure what mine represents but it feels more worldly than American. I did enough cleaning up yesterday that I was able to cut a width of … Continue reading Clean up and cross stitch →
• Piles (6/13/2020) - Saturday, June 13, 2020 (Day/Block 89) It took until almost noon to finish my daily block – my leaders and enders were a bit longer than usual. I had finished stitching my pinwheels for the next two rows of my scrap quilt so I needed something else. I had a pile of my daily blocks … Continue reading Piles →
• Revisions (6/12/2020) - Friday, June 12, 2020 (Day/Block 88) I was ready to post my daily block. I took the photo, I loaded my camera card into the laptop, and transferred the photo from my camera to my Photos app. I had the photo cropped and ready to export to my main machine before I saw my mistake. … Continue reading Revisions →
• More training (6/11/2020) - Thursday, June 11, 2020 (Day/Block 87) I had another morning of online training – today’s topic mainly covered planning through the pandemic and planning for a re-opening. There were some useful ideas none of it was really something the Hall can use. I also got the Agenda out for the Hall Board meeting on Monday. … Continue reading More training →
• Back to normal? (6/10/2020) - Wednesday, June 10, 2020 (Day/Block 86) It felt like things were completely back to normal today – I spent almost the entire day working on Hall stuff. I’ve had a chance to use the new accounting package for both Pat’s and my accounts but, with a meeting coming up next week, it was time to … Continue reading Back to normal? →
• It’s almost like being there (6/9/2020) - Tuesday, June 9, 2020 (Day/Block 85) Today’s block should have been an easy one but somehow I managed to get one row attached upside down. Does it mean I’m improving if I noticed my error before I took a photo? These aren’t the colours the calendar photo used but I couldn’t help but think of … Continue reading It’s almost like being there →
• Another one (6/8/2020) - Monday, June 8, 2020 (Day/Block 84) The day has gone really quickly. I wasn’t up and about until 8:30 so everything was late getting started. My daily block wasn’t finished until noon even though I was able to pull most of the four-patches from my scrap bins. Last night, when we took delivery of several … Continue reading Another one →
• A good day (6/7/2020) - Sunday, June 7, 2020 (Day/Block 83) A little accounting, my daily block, some reading and some cross stitching – all that adds up to a good day in my books.
• Scrappy Day (6/6/2020) - Saturday, June 6, 2020 (Day 82) It’s Saturday so I did exactly what was scheduled – I dealt with scraps. My daily block is scrappier than I would normally make it but I had the half-square triangles already made (from previous scraps), as well as those two-patches. All that needed to be cut were the … Continue reading Scrappy Day →
• Feeling very relaxed (6/5/2020) - Friday, June 5, 2020 (Day 81) I’ve no reason to feel relaxed but I’m not feeling any pressure to get anything done today. Between meetings and errands yesterday I sorted out some of my 12″ daily blocks and put them up on the design wall – well actually down as my design wall is the … Continue reading Feeling very relaxed →
• Meetings, meeting, meetings (6/4/2020) - Thursday, June 4, 2020 (Day 80) After a couple of months of having minimal contact with anyone there were three online meetings scheduled for today. Two of them overlapped so I had to choose the one I thought most important. They both were to aid me with my Hall work but one of them allowed … Continue reading Meetings, meeting, meetings →
• I didn’t know there would be work to do (6/3/2020) - Wednesday, June 3, 2020 (Day 79) I am scheduled to have two Zoom meetings tomorrow morning; they overlap a bit so I’ll finish with one of them and join the other in progress. By registering for the second one I’ll be able to get a recording of the meeting so I can see what, if … Continue reading I didn’t know there would be work to do →
• Rainy day (6/2/2020) - Tuesday, June 2, 2020 (Day 78) It’s been raining all day today and all I want to do is nap. It didn’t help that this morning’s block was very difficult. To begin with I don’t like large blocks (16″ for this one) because I have to dig into my fabric stash as opposed to being … Continue reading Rainy day →
• Line ups (6/1/2020) - Monday, June 1, 2020 (Day 77) I had to go out this morning so I decided I’d run a few errands while I was out. I was feeling safe because Pat spoke to his doctor last week and there have been no confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Powell River. I made a mask for myself … Continue reading Line ups →
• Did you miss me? (5/31/2020) - Sunday, May 31, 2020 (Day 76) I worked outside in the yard yesterday morning and it wasn’t until after lunch that I came upstairs to my sewing room. Yesterday’s block was 18″ so it took longer than most blocks. It was complicated even further because it was almost all done using templates, which had to … Continue reading Did you miss me? →
• Now I know why (5/29/2020) - Friday, May 29, 2020 (Day 74) A couple of days ago I decided I would stop counting the days since I went into self-isolation. Once things started opening up a bit I wasn’t sure what I was counting towards. So the number of days came off my daily post. But it was missed (maybe only … Continue reading Now I know why →
• Time Out (5/28/2020) - Thursday, May 28, 2020 (Day 73) I got all the ends tied in on my quilting project last night before Pat finished his online meeting. I even had time to figure out a border pattern for the quilt. As soon as my daily block was finished I started work on the borders. I had three … Continue reading Time Out →
• Back on track (5/27/2020) - Wednesday, May 27, 2020 (Day 72-for those who are counting) Last evening, before stopping for supper, I came up with a method for some straight line quilting on my project. I tested out three blocks and I was happy with what I came up with. I added a bit to the plan this morning and … Continue reading Back on track →
• Nightmare (5/26/2020) - Tuesday, May 26, 2020 (Day 71) Today has been a nightmare. I was trying to do some free-motion quilting on my Guild challenge and nothing went right. I should have known it wasn’t going to be a good day when I broke a needle halfway through my warm-up. But I carried on. I broke more … Continue reading Nightmare →
• According to plan (5/25/2020) - Monday, May 25, 2020 (Day 70) Today’s block is very appropriate. I spent some time last week sorting some of my thread and planning for the next step in organizing. I was looking for a particular thread case and I finally found one that is very close the the one I already have; Amazon of … Continue reading According to plan →
• More masks (5/24/2020) - Sunday, May 24, 2020 (Day 69) I got started on some Hall business while I had my morning coffee. I’m a bit late getting out the minutes from the last meeting but so far no one has complained or offered to take over so I guess it’s okay. I’ll review them tomorrow morning while I … Continue reading More masks →
• Spring Cleaning? (5/23/2020) - Saturday, May 23, 2020 (Day 68) It was my intention today to work on Pat’s accounting but so far that hasn’t happened. After finishing my daily block I started my weekly task of sorting my scraps organizing them as much as possible. Today I worked on my 2.5″ squares and strips. In my bins I’ve … Continue reading Spring Cleaning? →
• Getting started (5/22/2020) - Friday, May 22, 2020 (Day 67) A purple bud for the lilacs that are just finished and the irises that are just coming out. Pink corners for the peonies whose buds are almost ready to pop. This was a quick block to make but it took me until just now to finish it. Everything was … Continue reading Getting started →
• It’s Here! (5/21/2020) - Thursday, May 21, 2020 (Day 66) My new-to-me computer arrived just before 7:30 this morning; we knew it was coming so we set the alarm just in case we didn’t wake up early enough. I’m writing this post from my new Macbook Pro laptop. Before I started playing with the new machine I finished my … Continue reading It’s Here! →
• Ouch! (5/20/2020) - Wednesday, May 20, 2020 (Day 65) I was so involved in doing my daily block this morning that I had a phone call reminder that I was supposed to be taking part in a video chat. It wasn’t that I forgot about the date; usually I set a timer so I have about ten minutes … Continue reading Ouch! →
• Week 9 – Day Seven (5/19/2020) - Tuesday, May 19, 2020 I’ve been quilting again today and still no issues. I’m not making a lot of progress each day – today I finished stabilizing the quilt and was able to start on quilting some of the appliqué pieces. It was time-consuming but it is fun to see it coming together. Pat and … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Seven →
• Week 9 – Day Six (5/18/2020) - Monday, May 18, 2020 I’m quilting today – for real – I’m working on this year’s Guild challenge. We show our challenges at our year-end pot luck in June. I originally thought I’d miss the party due to Quilt Canada but that has been cancelled so now I have to get the project finished. So … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Six →
• Week 9 – Day Five (5/17/2020) - Sunday, May 17, 2020 I’ve spent the afternoon cross stitching. I had more or less lost interest in my project – a Thunderbird – and I thought it was because after the Princess with so, so many colours switching to a project with only four colours wasn’t very interesting. The small project I’ve been working … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Five →
• Week 9 – Day Four (5/16/2020) - Saturday, May 16, 2020 Today’s block is dedicated to Christy. The black and white striped fabric was left over from a Home-Ec sewing class; she made a blouse and I’m sure if I took the time I could find a photo of her wearing it. The Raggedy Ann and Andy fabric was bought with Christy … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Four →
• Week 9 – Day Three (5/15/2020) - Friday, May 15, 2020 Today’s block finishes at 18″ – it took me all morning and felt like I was making a small quilt. A few of blocks of that size will make a good table topper, although I hope blocks of that size are few and far between. I did a quick scan of … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Three →
• Week 9 – Day Two (5/14/2020) - Thursday, May 14, 2020 We caught the first ferry over to Texada this morning. There were a few things both Pat and I wanted to pick up and we also wanted to check on the studio and workshop. The spiders and other creepy crawlies have moved back into the workshop but I didn’t bother cleaning; … Continue reading Week 9 – Day Two →
• Week 9 – Day One (5/13/2020) - Wednesday, May 13, 2020 What a perfectly-named card for these challenging times. There may be times when it seems difficult to cope, but the issues we face with this pandemic are so much better than so many others. The block itself wasn’t without its own challenges – I was uploading the photo to my computer … Continue reading Week 9 – Day One →
• Week 8 – Day Seven (5/12/2020) - Tuesday, May 12, 2020 It was a block buster kind of day. I like the way the morning block reflects the scraps I created the day before. When I sandwiched one of my quilts yesterday I used the blue/pink fabric as backing. A big piece of it was on the top of my scrap basket … Continue reading Week 8 – Day Seven →
• Week 8 – Day Six (5/11/2020) - Monday, May 11, 2020 I’m totally back on track today. While I had my second cut of coffee this morning I pulled together some financials for the Hall. It wasn’t as difficult as I expected, but not as easy as it would have been had I had my accounting program. When I ran into issues … Continue reading Week 8 – Day Six →
• Week 8 – Day Five (5/10/2020) - Sunday, May 10, 2020 I’m back on track today. Yesterday I was so frustrated with my computer and camera and just about everything. I decided I was depressed and, rather than watching meaningless TV in the evening, I sat out on the deck. Then I stirred myself enough to come back upstairs and “deal”. I … Continue reading Week 8 – Day Five →
• Week 8 – Day Four (5/9/2020) - Saturday, May 9, 2020 I’m happy to have my daily blocks caught up. I missed starting my day with something positive but I’ll be back on track tomorrow. I have enough 12″ blocks to make a quilt top; I’ll probably wait until I have a few more and then see which ones go together best. … Continue reading Week 8 – Day Four →
• Week 8 – Day Three (5/8/2020) - Friday, May 8, 2020 Did you notice I skipped a day? Not only did I skip a day with my posting but I’ve now skipped two days of daily blocks. I’ve been working at getting my Guild mystery finished; I wanted it done yesterday so Stacia, Deloise and I could chat about it today but … Continue reading Week 8 – Day Three →
• Week 8 – Day One (5/6/2020) - Wednesday, May 6, 2020 My new computer arrived early this morning and I’ve puttered with it all day. Shouldn’t something new and shiny make your day sparkle? This certainly didn’t and I’m more frustrated now than I was when I didn’t have a working computer. I will persist … and I will prevail! In the … Continue reading Week 8 – Day One →
• Week 7 – Day Seven (5/5/2020) - Tuesday, May 5, 2020 The final clue on the Guild’s mystery quilt was released this morning. I’ve been working at it all day but it still isn’t together. I have seen enough to know that the star (which I knew would appear somewhere in the pattern) is not going to be the turquoise fabric as … Continue reading Week 7 – Day Seven →
• Week 7 – Day Six (5/4/2020) - Monday, May 4, 2020 After I got my block finished Pat and I went out and worked in the yard for a bit. I pulled some weeds at the back and thoroughly enjoyed the smell wafting from the lilacs – both ours and our neighbours. Pat did the edge trimming on the grass so I … Continue reading Week 7 – Day Six →
• Week 7 -Day Five (5/3/2020) - Sunday, May 3, 2020 I’m using Pat’s laptop to write my post today. I left my computer unplugged overnight in hopes that it would start again this morning (it has been shutting down periodically for a week now) but it just wouldn’t work. I think it may be the video card and we have someone … Continue reading Week 7 -Day Five →
• Week 7 – Day Four (5/2/2020) - Saturday, May 2, 2020 My computer died and I can’t post from my iPad. New computer has been ordered and It will be here, hopefully, by the middle of the month.
• Week 7 – Day Three (5/1/2020) - Friday, May 1, 2020 Before I tackled my block of the day this morning I finished my April UFO. I only had three seams left so I counted it as an April finish. My May UFO Challenge is a medallion mystery quilt; I haven’t dug it out yet but it seems to me that it … Continue reading Week 7 – Day Three →
• Week 7 – Day Two (4/30/2020) - Thursday, April 30, 2020 Today is the last day to work on my April UFO Challenge and I want to get it done so badly. I won’t finish it this afternoon but I will get it done tomorrow. Not the quilting part but I’ll have the top ready to take to Texada when I’m able … Continue reading Week 7 – Day Two →
• Week 7 – Day One (4/29/2020) - Wednesday, April 29, 2020 Are the days getting shorter? It seems like there is never enough time in the day to get everything done that I’d like to. Today was a mixture of accounting and cards – and I made better progress on the cards than on the accounting. Although Pat has wound down his … Continue reading Week 7 – Day One →
• Week 6 – Day Seven (4/28/2020) - Tuesday, April 28, 2020 Today’s block was pretty easy and I didn’t make any mistakes on it so it went quickly. I had enough time to make a second mask for Pat before the mystery clue arrived in my mail. That clue has taken the rest of my day and I’m still not finished. I’ll … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Seven →
• Week 6 – Day Six (4/27/2020) - Monday, April 27, 2020 I had to make some adjustments for this block. I was using an old shirt for the background and although I thought I had cut ample for a 12.5″ square I was a little short on one side. I could have cut it down to 12″ but then I’d have ended … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Six →
• Week 6 – Day Five (4/26/2020) - Sunday, April 26, 2020 I know a lot of quilters have been making masks. I didn’t jump on the bandwagon as the masks prevent you from spreading the virus but don’t necessarily protect you from the virus. However, if everyone you are around wears a mask it should help and it won’t do any harm. … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Five →
• Week 6 – Day Four (4/25/2020) - Saturday, April 25, 2020 From the moment I got up today it has felt like Sunday. I’m really glad it isn’t though as it gives me one extra day to catch up on the things I wanted to finish during the week. My week is scheduled with a different project every day; I tend to … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Four →
• Week 6 – Day Three (4/24/2020) - Friday, April 24, 2020 I don’t clean my sewing room very often. I clear off the surfaces and put away fabric and paper work on a fairly regular basis. I vacuum the floor to pick up all the threads and bits of fabric that have fallen from any number of spots where I sit. I … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Three →
• Week 6 – Day Two (4/23/2020) - Thursday, April 23, 2020 My Covid-19 blocks come off my Quilter’s Block A Day Calendar. Depending on the size of the daily block it will sometimes take part of the morning or sometimes all morning. There are fabrics to pull and cut, piecing and trimming to do. Often there is appliqué that involves templates which … Continue reading Week 6 – Day Two →
• Week 6 – Day 1 (4/22/2020) - Wednesday, April 22, 2020 I had a bit of contact with the outside world today – but from a safe distance. The President of the Hall stopped by to sign some cheques so I can carry on with some of the Hall business. Another Board member stopped by to drop off some receipts and pick … Continue reading Week 6 – Day 1 →
• Week 5 – Day Seven (4/21/2020) - Tuesday, April 21, 2020 It took me until two this afternoon to get this block finished. I tried to second guess the cutting to avoid the large striped triangles thinking a smaller triangle and half-square triangles would work just as well. So I made my HSTs and my quarter-square triangles and started putting it together. … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Seven →
• Week 5 – Day Six (4/20/2020) - Monday, April 20, 2020 Today was a quilting day (after my block was finished). I knew I wasn’t going to do anything fancy on the quilt I was working on but it went quicker than I imagined. Just diagonal lines which I eyeballed so no marking was necessary. I went from border to border all … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Six →
• Week 5 – Day Five (4/19/2020) - Sunday, April 19, 2020 Personally I think the posies are a bit of an overkill but I guess they had to match the block with the name somehow. I cut out some microwave bowls this afternoon but won’t start stitching them until tomorrow. Cross stitching this afternoon.
• Week 5 – Day Five (4/18/2020) - Saturday, April 18, 2020 Today’s block goes out to everyone who finds themselves baking more than usual during this period of self-isolation. I spent another day with my scraps and I’ve loved every minute of it. Today’s trial blocks included the first step in a Happy Scrappy Quilt Along. I had so many scraps littering … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Five →
• Week 5 – Day Four (4/17/2020) - Friday, April 17, 2020 I used to keep track of what day of the week we were on because I had outings and things scheduled for every day. Lately I’m not sure what day of the week we are on. I made myself a schedule (a different project for different days of the week) but … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Four →
• Week 5 – Day Three (4/16/2020) - Thursday, April 16, 2020 I spent some time this morning finishing the card top I started yesterday. It isn’t quilted yet but I’ll do that when I move my quilting machine into position on Monday. I took a few liberties with my calendar block today. I replaced some half-square triangles with some pinwheels (because I … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Three →
• Week 5 – Day Two (4/15/2020) - Wednesday, April 15, 2020 I was quite challenged with this block and had to redo seams a couple of times (and more) in many places. I finally decided that if it was ever going to be done I had to go with “third times the charm and if it isn’t right too bad”. My reminders … Continue reading Week 5 – Day Two →
• Week 5 – Day One (4/14/2020) - Tuesday, April 14, 2020 This looked like an easy block but once I got stitching I realized I had to do a partial seam. I don’t do those often but luckily I remembered that one of the Guild demos was on this technique and they used this particular block as an example. I was able … Continue reading Week 5 – Day One →
• Week 4 – Day Seven (4/13/2020) - Monday, April 13, 2020 I really like this block. Sadly it isn’t exactly as the calendar said it should be. I was so thrilled that I could do those 9-patches really easily and I had enough matching neutrals in the scrap bin on my cutting table that I went to work on it first thing … Continue reading Week 4 – Day Seven →
• Week 4 – Day Six (4/12/2020) - Sunday, April 12, 2020 Happy Easter! Up next – a Flapper Pie for supper and some cross stitching.
• Week 4 – Day Five (4/11/2020) - Saturday, April 11, 2020 I had a very productive morning. I sewed the binding on my latest Community Quilt and got it ready for hand stitching. I made my block of the day – and all of that was done before noon. After lunch (homemade bean & bacon soup) I went out and did a … Continue reading Week 4 – Day Five →
• Week 4 – Day Four (4/10/2020) - Friday, April 10, 2020 I don’t know who names these blocks but this one reminded me that I have a tuffet, some fabric and a tuffet pattern – maybe that’s what I should be making. No rush I guess as the chair the tuffet is meant to go with is in the workshop on Texada. … Continue reading Week 4 – Day Four →
• Week 4 – Day Three (4/9/2020) - Thursday, April 9, 2020 According to the news this morning this self-isolation may last for a few more months – it is getting harder and harder to keep track of what day of the week it is and how many days it has been since I’ve physically been in the company of anyone but Pat! … Continue reading Week 4 – Day Three →
• Week 4 – Day 2 (4/8/2020) - Wednesday, April 8, 2020 With the exception of my block for the day and a video chat not much has gone according to my plan for the day. The block took forever – it will finish at 16″ and is the largest block so far. It used a lot of fabric and I’m pleased to … Continue reading Week 4 – Day 2 →
• Week 4 – Day 1 (4/7/2020) - Tuesday, April 7, 2020 I was like a kid waiting for Christmas this morning – or to be seasonal like a kid waiting for the Easter Bunny. Clue 2 for our Guild’s Mystery Quilt was due today. I thought it would come by e-mail by nine because that is the usual time for our classes … Continue reading Week 4 – Day 1 →
• Week 3 – Day Seven (4/6/2020) - Monday, April 6, 2020 I actually took care of some business this morning. For several mornings I’ve brought a cup of coffee upstairs planning to start pulling the paperwork for our income taxes. For several mornings I’ve got dragged (very willingly) into the internet rabbit hole. But today I was determined to get started. I … Continue reading Week 3 – Day Seven →
• Week 3 – Day Six (4/5/2020) - Sunday, April 5, 2020 I seem to be having a rather unproductive day. But that’s okay because we aren’t supposed to be putting pressure on ourselves to feel productive. Laundry, a dishwasher load, my block and finishing my book while sitting in the sun – all in my day’s work.
• Week 3 – Day Five (4/4/2020) - Saturday, April 4, 2020 I changed my routine around a bit today. I was all set up for quilting so I finished the quilting on my community quilt rather than start with my Covid-19 block first thing. It took until after lunch but the binding is attached and ready to hand stitch tonight (and maybe … Continue reading Week 3 – Day Five →
• Week 3 – Day 4 (4/3/2020) - Friday, April 3, 2020 Come on – you know you want to. What’s up buttercup? For me it is mostly quilting. It is going well but I’m still at least a day away from a finish.
• Week 3 – Day Three (4/2/2020) - Thursday, April 2, 2020 Not much sewing done today; today’s block was just six inches (the size of my cards). It is the first small one I’ve had so it may get added to my bin of card tops when this is all over. I would have liked to have had some bird fabric for … Continue reading Week 3 – Day Three →
• Week 3 – Day Two (4/1/2020) - Wednesday, April 1, 2020 I have my energy back today and I’m looking forward to another month of sewing. Today’s block used the same curved template as another block I made but this time I didn’t use any fusible web; I used a glue stick to hold the pieces down until I sewed the seams. … Continue reading Week 3 – Day Two →
• Week 3 – Day One (3/31/2020) - Tuesday, March 31, 2020 I might be getting bored; I have lots to do but the same-old same-old is getting a bit old. I’m switching between projects but my March UFO was rather boring – my card blocks – on Tuesday and Thursday. I looked to see if they had revealed the April UFO yet … Continue reading Week 3 – Day One →
• Week 2 – Day Seven (3/30/2020) - Monday, March 30, 2020 I finally got at some actual quilting today; up to now it has just been piecing. I decided I should start slow and small so I’ve done one miniature and I have another one under the needle. Neither are complicated quilting as the patterns seemed busy enough that additional patterns with … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Seven →
• Week 2 – Day Six (3/29/2020) - Sunday, March 29, 2020 I realized this morning that I hadn’t had my car started in almost two weeks. I was afraid the battery would be dead but I managed to get it started; another day or two and I probably wouldn’t have. It was a lovely, sunny day so I went for a short … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Six →
• Week 2 – Day Five (3/28/2020) - Saturday, March 28, 2020 I had better luck today with my block. In fact, I was finished it by 9:30 – I was up early and after the disaster yesterday I felt I should get an early start. This one finishes at 9″; I used the red fabric because I think it looks a bit … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Five →
• Week 2 – Day Four (3/27/2020) - Friday, March 27, 2020 I dreaded doing today’s block and with good reason. The math I did yesterday was apparently wrong, but it took me until noon to see that it wasn’t going to work. Being as stingy as I am with fabric I didn’t want to waste everything I’d done so I adjusted the … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Four →
• Week 2 – Day Three (3/26/2020) - Thursday, March 26, 2020 All is well here. Pat went over to Texada this morning; he self-isolated in the truck, drove straight to the studio and self-isolated on the way home. He had some music equipment he wanted to have at home and he picked up my quilting machine for me so I can tackle … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Three →
• Week 2 – Day Two (3/25/2020) - Wednesday, March 25, 2020 Two things caught my attention today in all the news about the pandemic. Prime Minister Trudeau, as he should, thanked all the front line workers for everything they are doing. I had to rant a little about how Kathryn is one of those front-line workers but has had steady increases to … Continue reading Week 2 – Day Two →
• Week 2 – Day One (3/24/2020) - Tuesday, March 24, 2020 I looked at my calendar this morning and although there are no engagements on it for this week I realized I had two birthday cards that needed to get in the mail – today if I was going to allow ten delivery days to get them where they needed to be. … Continue reading Week 2 – Day One →
• Day Seven (3/23/2020) - Monday, March 23, 2020 My block today was very much like a Drunkard’s Path; when I saw it I remembered that Jessie (from Thursday sewing) had mentioned the way she did a Drunkard’s Path with no seams on the curve. I gave it a try and the block was done very quickly. Because I was … Continue reading Day Seven →
• Day Six (3/22/2020) - Sunday, March 22, 2020 I spend most of the day working on my Covid-19 block. I think I sewed every seam twice and I still didn’t get it right; can you see my mistake? If not, don’t keep looking. If you can, get over it because I did. I’m not sure I’ve ever made a … Continue reading Day Six →
• Day Five (3/21/2020) - Saturday, March 21, 2020 I’ve been complying quite happily with all the new rules and orders that have come about due to the virus. In fact, I’ve been enjoying myself every day. Self-isolation isn’t that difficult and I’m taking a more active role on Facebook; I usually lurk and like, rather than comment, on friends’ … Continue reading Day Five →
• Day Four (3/20/2020) - Friday, March 20, 2020 Early this morning Pat suggested we go over to Texada as both of our Monday meetings were cancelled, or at least not happening face-to-face. That got me thinking of all the things – sewing things – I needed to pack. And all the books I might want and maybe my cross-stitch … Continue reading Day Four →
• Day Three (3/19/2020) - Thursday, March 19, 2020 Deloise got me started thinking about a Covid-19 project – a project to work on while I’m social distancing (although it is becoming more like self-isolation). I have a pattern for a scrappy block that I thought would be “the one” but when I went to do some cutting for it … Continue reading Day Three →
• Day Two (3/18/2020) - Wednesday, March 18, 2020 I was at my computer for most of the morning but, for a Wednesday, that isn’t unusual. I wrapped a couple of birthday packages for the mail; I have no idea when I’ll go to the post office but if I have to be out for something essential they are ready … Continue reading Day Two →
• Day One (3/17/2020) - Tuesday, March 17, 2020 I had to look up online to see if it was Day One of self-isolation or social-distancing. I’m in the social-distancing category right now – I go out if I really need to but stay home from things I don’t need to be out for. Today being my usual Guild sewing … Continue reading Day One →
• Unsettled (3/16/2020) - Monday, March 16, 2020 I spent a lot of time this morning with Hall work. Answering questions about cancellations, offering refunds, updating the Facebook and website regarding cancellations. Not everything has cancelled; a few of the smaller groups are continuing as far as I know but with everything changing on a daily basis they may … Continue reading Unsettled →
• Suddenly, a free week (3/15/2020) - Sunday, March 15, 2020 I was out the door to do some grocery shopping first thing this morning. I had a list and wasn’t really looking for anything virus-related but I did pick up some extra meat and frozen vegetables for the freezer. I had potatoes, onions, and salad mixes on the list and I … Continue reading Suddenly, a free week →
• Me day (3/14/2020) - Saturday, March 14, 2020 We had a reception at the Hall last night for the people who gave us the grant for the renovations as well as a few others who, in the Board’s opinion, were instrumental in getting it done. It was meant to be a drop-in affair but as is the case with … Continue reading Me day →
• What a difference a day can make (3/12/2020) - Thursday, March 12, 2020 I managed to get a lot of my clearing up done yesterday before dinner. My cutting table is still a bit of a mess but I think I’ll be able to vacuum up here tomorrow. I was even able to take care of a few small jobs that had been on … Continue reading What a difference a day can make →
• Tied to my desk (3/11/2020) - Wednesday, March 11, 2020 I’ve been at my desk all day today and I’ve been making progress. My Guild work is caught up, Pat’s tickets are printed, and most of the Hall work is done. A lot of my Hall work involves some research and passing things through the Board so they are on my … Continue reading Tied to my desk →
• Good sewing day (3/10/2020) - Tuesday, March 10, 2020 At the moment I have way more on my plate than I can handle but the one good thing about today is that it was a sewing day. I started a miniature on the weekend and I hoped to get the pieces of that stitched together but by the time I’d … Continue reading Good sewing day →
• Busy, busy, busy (3/9/2020) - Monday, March 9, 2020 I must have been behind before setting out for my weekend of sewing; how else can I explain how far behind I am today? There is Hall work, Guild work, Hospice work and we have two shows coming up next week that I need to prepare beds for. I got a … Continue reading Busy, busy, busy →
• Prep work (3/4/2020) - Wednesday, March 4, 2020 There were a few things I needed to get done today so my next few busy days would be a bit lighter. At our mini retreat we are working on a group project with panels; we all picked a different panel but we are using the same treatment on them. I … Continue reading Prep work →
• A little of this, a little of that (3/3/2020) - Tuesday, March 3, 2020 I certainly didn’t have the best sewing day on record but I accomplished a little on a few things. We were making lanyards for an upcoming event and after I got the lesson on how they were done I got started. The hardest, or most tedious, part was changing thread colours … Continue reading A little of this, a little of that →
• Why can’t I do it at home? (3/2/2020) - Monday, March 2, 2020 Tomorrow at sewing we are working on a specific project (lanyards) for an upcoming event; I spent some time this morning digging out solid fabrics in bright colours and then cutting strips. We need to make 200 of them; I found fabric in different solid colours to make five. I’m assuming … Continue reading Why can’t I do it at home? →
• A day off (3/1/2020) - Sunday, March 1, 2020 I’ve pretty much taken the day off – maybe we could call it a knitting day and I wouldn’t feel so much like I wasted the day. I caught up on some Hall work this morning and went through my e-mail. I sewed a label for the Community Quilt I finished. … Continue reading A day off →
• It’s a good tired (2/29/2020) - Saturday, February 29, 2020 I really felt like ignoring my journal for one more day but how often do I get to do a post for February 29th. And I have some catching up to do. When I last checked in I had two blocks I was going to test out – well neither of … Continue reading It’s a good tired →
• I can’t settle (2/27/2020) - Thursday, February 27, 2020 I can’t seem to settle to do anything very productive this morning. I was up early (before six) so there was an opportunity to get a lot done. I finished my Hall work yesterday and my sewing was all packed because I never unpacked it from Tuesday. My Thursday projects remain … Continue reading I can’t settle →
• Lots of work (2/26/2020) - Wednesday, February 26, 2020 It hasn’t been a fun day but I accomplished a lot. New tires on the car Cranberry Hall minutes done Cranberry Hall deposit ready Arranged for BOND to be a recipient for our Community Quilts Booked Higgins Inn for our July visit from the kids Picked out flooring for the basement … Continue reading Lots of work →
• Cleaning and scrubbing (2/25/2020) - Tuesday, February 25, 2020 You’ve heard the saying … Cleaning and scrubbing can wait ’til tomorrow. I had been waiting for tomorrow for far too long so I spent a good part of yesterday (Monday) cleaning and scrubbing and doing laundry. It was a nice day so when I had to go out to the … Continue reading Cleaning and scrubbing →
• What now? (2/23/2020) - Sunday, February 23, 2020 I spent the weekend working on my Seminole project and it is done. I hope you had your sunglasses on before you took a look! It is very bright, but I think that is the point. This was my UFO Challenge project for February and, although it isn’t quilted, I’m considering … Continue reading What now? →
• I’m going to the garden to eat worms (2/22/2020) - Saturday, February 22, 2020 I was looking forward to getting the last two rows for my Seminole project finished today. I finished the first row and dug out my bag for the final one. I stitched the strips together, although I noticed that I had replaced one of the colours on the second strip. I … Continue reading I’m going to the garden to eat worms →
• Bright colours (2/21/2020) - I was back to my Thursday sewing group yesterday and I started another 3-yard donation quilt. I got the 48 half-square triangles that I need stitched and trimmed. I’ll have one more week to work on the blocks before I take it to our Community Quilts weekend. We’ve also picked a new date for our … Continue reading Bright colours →
• A bad night = a bad day (2/19/2020) - Wednesday, February 19, 2020 That title is a bit of an exaggeration but I did have a bad night. I woke up at four and read until 5:30; from then on I dozed more than slept and was up at seven to start my day. I haven’t actually accomplished much in my day though. I … Continue reading A bad night = a bad day →
• Maybe not (2/18/2020) - Tuesday, February 18, 2020 I said earlier that I would be glad to get things back to normal but maybe I don’t. A couple more days of doing nothing might be nice. It was good to be back at the bee today. I worked on a couple of cards and started another row for my … Continue reading Maybe not →
• Not today (2/17/2020) - Monday, February 17, 2020 Now that the film festival is over I fully intended to get back to normal – as in doing something productive. So far that hasn’t exactly happened. I enjoyed the film festival but it was a relief when it was over and I could stay at home all day Sunday. I … Continue reading Not today →
• Now I know where it is (2/7/2020) - Friday, February 7, 2020 I had a good day of sewing yesterday. Yesterday morning I finished the row on my Seminole quilt that was giving me so much trouble; I knew it wasn’t right and I thought I could live with it but I can’t. So it is stuffed in a bag that may or … Continue reading Now I know where it is →
• Now I remember (2/5/2020) - Wednesday, February 5, 2020 I had a bit of work to do at my desk this morning and when I was finished I headed out to run the errands I didn’t do yesterday. I don’t remember the last time I had my car out (probably a week ago yesterday); it complained when I started it … Continue reading Now I remember →
• Alberta bound (2/4/2020) - Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Alberta bound? Not really but for my walk up to 7-Eleven this morning I put on my winter boots and coat. I usually plan my bigger errands for Tuesday (or Thursday) when I have the car out. My plan today was for groceries and a Hall check after sewing. But with … Continue reading Alberta bound →
• Back home (2/3/2020) - Monday, February 3, 2020 I had a good weekend on Texada. I took a bin full of projects to work on but I didn’t have time for any of them except one. I worked on my quilt-as-you-go project and have it almost completed. All the blocks have been quilted and the rows are joined together. … Continue reading Back home →
• Remembering Frank (2/3/2020) - January 31, 2020 The McKnight’s lost another great one over the weekend – Frank. Frank was a “much older cousin” so I didn’t know him well growing up. I remember Christmas and New Year’s dinners and being astounded by the amount of food he and Bill could consume at a sitting. In later years I … Continue reading Remembering Frank →
• I planned an easy day (1/29/2020) - Wednesday, January 29, 2020 I had a few priorities for the day – get the Hall minutes out and pack up for our trip to Texada tomorrow. And by “pack up” I mean get all my projects gathered up. But it has been non-stop with email and phone calls. We are getting swamped with rental … Continue reading I planned an easy day →
• You snooze, you lose (1/28/2020) - Tuesday, January 28, 2020 I knew I was going to be late for sewing today as I had some Guild work to do before I could head out. The entry form I needed to fill out and send back was supposed to be online by nine o’clock but they didn’t actually get the form posted … Continue reading You snooze, you lose →
• Just when I thought I was done (1/27/2020) - Monday, January 27, 2020 We had a great weekend in the Lower Mainland. It was such a delight to see Taylor compete in four gymnastics disciplines on Friday morning – floor, vault, uneven bars and beam. Of course she excelled in each, winning silver ribbons in all but the beam – for that one she … Continue reading Just when I thought I was done →
• Getting ready (1/22/2020) - Wednesday, January 22, 2020 I thought I had another week before our next Cranberry Hall Board meeting but when I looked at the calendar I realized it is coming up on Monday. Since we are heading out of town tomorrow morning I had to get the Agenda out today. And since I was immersed in … Continue reading Getting ready →
• Lots done (1/21/2020) - January 21, 2020 I was back at the bee today and I got lots done. No actual finishes mind you but I was happy with what I did accomplish. But first I headed out to the Post Office. I hadn’t been for awhile and the last time I was there the line-ups were still quite … Continue reading Lots done →
• What a weekend (1/20/2020) - Monday, January 20, 2020 I had such a good time sewing all weekend long. And I ended up with a couple of finishes and good progress on my UFO Challenge for the month. Since it was a “retreat” I thought I was justified in starting something new. When I looked at the list of projects … Continue reading What a weekend →
• In retreat mode (1/16/2020) - Thursday, January 16, 2020 It is a sunny day out today but the streets are still slushy and we officially cancelled our retreat. That doesn’t mean I’m not going to have my own little at-home retreat. From now until Sunday evening I’m going to be upstairs sewing. I had purchased ingredients for the Frozen Pineapple … Continue reading In retreat mode →
• Snow Day (1/15/2020) - Wednesday, January 15, 2020 It wasn’t snowing when I got up at seven, but by the time I made coffee half an hour later the road was covered and it was really coming down. And it hasn’t stopped all day. More snow is expected tonight as well as winds; the evening ferry from Comox has … Continue reading Snow Day →
• I worry (1/14/2020) - Tuesday, January 14, 2020 I worry – I worry a lot – I worry a lot about nothing! I was worried this morning because one of the quilters from Texada was going to call me around seven to see what the road up the hill was like. I set my alarm for 6:15, and another … Continue reading I worry →
• Not a lot of fun today (1/13/2020) - Monday, January 13, 2020 It has been more of a work day than a fun day for me. I started off the day with some cleaning. The new outlet for my vacuum allows me to reach corners that I couldn’t before so I got a little carried away. I scrubbed out the bathrooms and cleaned … Continue reading Not a lot of fun today →
• Adjustments (1/12/2020) - Sunday, January 12, 2020 Whenever I work a knitting or crochet pattern with yarn not necessarily recommended in the pattern I’m always concerned that I’ll have enough yarn, or if I need to make it smaller than the pattern, will it look odd. I finished another shawl last night and although it wasn’t the yarn … Continue reading Adjustments →
• Winterized (1/11/2020) - Saturday, January 11, 2020 After two forecasts of snow overnight we have still managed to avoid anything on the ground. However the next “winter weather warning” for us is unseasonably cold temperatures. They’re saying it might get down to -10. With that in mind I thought there was probably something I had to do to … Continue reading Winterized →
• Curtains (1/10/2020) - Friday, January 10, 2020 I finally got down to sewing Taylor’s curtains. It isn’t that curtains are hard – just straight seams and all done on the sewing machine. As Christy says, Taylor is going through her “lumberjack” phase and she wanted the curtains to be red and black plaid. It took some research but … Continue reading Curtains →
• Procrastinating? No! (1/9/2020) - Wednesday, January 9, 2020 Pat and I were both out the door early this morning; he headed to Texada on an early ferry and I was meeting someone at the Hall. It was nippy out but no snow yet – I think that is to come tonight. I picked up money at the Hall and … Continue reading Procrastinating? No! →
• Some work, some play (1/8/2020) - Wednesday, January 8, 2020 We started the morning by getting the garbage and recycling to the curb. After picking up the mail from the Hall yesterday I knew at least part of my morning would be spent on Hall work. I also had time to do some Guild work. And since I was in a … Continue reading Some work, some play →
• Bee day (1/7/2020) - Tuesday, January 7, 2020 It was odd to think that this was the first bee of the new year; I guess because we were all together last week for the business meeting it didn’t seem like very long since I’d seen everyone. I took along a couple of things to work on; the first was … Continue reading Bee day →
• Repairs & Maintenance (1/6/2020) - Monday, January 6, 2020 We had an electrician booked for some work at the house at 8:15 this morning so there was no sleeping in. We had a few things that needed to be done and he took care of them all within less than two hours. The light above the kitchen sink has been … Continue reading Repairs & Maintenance →
• Too considerate? (1/4/2020) - Saturday, January 4, 2020 Late last evening a message came through from a Guild member that she was selling her sister’s sewing machine. It was a Janome and, although I don’t need another machine, all my machines are Janome’s and I love them. So I checked into the machine; the model was discontinued but it … Continue reading Too considerate? →
• There is a storm raging (1/3/2020) - Friday, January 3, 2020 I’m still not quite used to using 2020; in fact I did a card today and wrote 2019 on it and had to make a correction. The day seems to have flown by – perhaps it is the roaring wind outside that has swept the time away. The Texada ferry made … Continue reading There is a storm raging →
• Back to normal (1/2/2020) - I think things are back to normal for me again, although yesterday felt a lot like Sunday and I feel like I should still be on holiday for a few more days. This morning I got show tickets ready for the Hall, as well as a deposit. I did a bit of Guild work so … Continue reading Back to normal →
• Catching Up (1/1/2020) - Wednesday, January 1, 2020 I wonder how long is it going to take me to write 2020 naturally, without having to stop and remember that we’ve moved into a new decade. I pre-wrote my journal entries between Christmas and now so it is a bit of a reality check for me to get back to … Continue reading Catching Up →
• Happy New Year (12/31/2019) - Tuesday, December 31, 2019 I know most of you get these posts the following morning so I’m wishing you a Happy New Year on New Year’s Eve! 2020 Resolutions Photos: I’ll restrict myself to hoping to clear out one bin for each of the girls. Music: I don’t look forward to many of the concerts … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• Another year done! (12/30/2019) - Monday, December 30, 2019 So how did I do on my 2019 Resolutions! You be my judge. Photos: I am really going to try to sort through my digital photos and maybe even make a few photo books. I didn’t make a lot of progress getting through my photos. We made a photo book for … Continue reading Another year done! →
• Placemats (12/28/2019) - Saturday, December 28, 2019 Placemats, placemats, placemats – so many placemats this year! The wrapped gift that everyone picked in the 12 Days of Christmas Box was a placemat. I used two different patterns but each placemat was completely scrappy so no two were alike. Most of these were made at the Texada Retreat and … Continue reading Placemats →
• 12 Days of Christmas (12/26/2019) - Thursday, December 26, 2019 I used to do an Advent Calendar for my grandchildren but twenty-five days times seven got to be too expensive and mind-boggling to find that many treats/toys/whatever’s to put in the pockets. Each family now has an Advent Calendar with a set of ornaments that they can put out every day … Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas →
• Merry Christmas (12/24/2019) - Tuesday, December 24, 2019
• A Jazzy Christmas (12/22/2019) - Sunday, December 22, 2019 We’re off to the annual Jazzy Christmas concert tonight. Although it is advertised as “jazzy” it really is just a group of folks singing Christmas- and winter-related songs – some solos, some duos and some groups. We’ve gone for several years in a row and, although it isn’t quite like the … Continue reading A Jazzy Christmas →
• Any bets? (12/21/2019) - Saturday, December 21, 2019 I finished cleaning my spaces today and was able to run the vacuum cleaner through both rooms. There are still some surfaces that need to be organized but they will come in bits and pieces over the next few weeks. For now I’m happy to have a workable space and some … Continue reading Any bets? →
• Great party last night (12/20/2019) - Friday, December 20, 2019 I spent the entire morning yesterday working on Hall-related tasks. I finished up everything this morning until the New Year (I hope). I ran a few errands before heading out to my Thursday sewing group. It isn’t much of a group just now; Jessie’s husband is ill and she isn’t coming … Continue reading Great party last night →
• Running around (12/18/2019) - Wednesday, December 18, 2019 My morning was filled with errands – I hit pretty much every area of town except Townsite and Wildwood. First stop was the Hall to deliver a receipt and check the mail. I hoped there might be a cheque waiting for me but the box was empty. From there I picked … Continue reading Running around →
• Extra sewing time (12/17/2019) - Tuesday, December 17, 2019 Since we had our board meeting last night there was no need for me to drop by the Hall today to check for mail. I have to go out tomorrow so I didn’t have many errands to do today either. I say “many” because I planned to drop my pillow at … Continue reading Extra sewing time →
• Back to reality (12/16/2019) - Monday, December 16, 2019 I was in no way stressed about it but I had to get back to reality today. I was up at 6:30 and I’m hoping my sleep pattern is back to normal. I spent all morning getting ready for the Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight. I have kept pretty much up-to-date … Continue reading Back to reality →
• Lazy or relaxed? (12/15/2019) - Sunday, December 15, 2019 I’ve been sleeping in a bit this past week – often until after 8:30. Granted a few of those nights had been sleepless for one reason or another but when I wake up early there is no “thing I need to do” running through my mind. It was almost nine this … Continue reading Lazy or relaxed? →
• It’s a start (12/13/2019) - Friday, December 13, 2019 I finally got around to cleaning this morning – I couldn’t find a good enough excuse not to! I’m not saying you could eat off my floors, but I think you’d be okay following the five-second rule. After the cleaning was finished I dug out a few Christmas decorations. I’ll add … Continue reading It’s a start →
• On to my next project (12/12/2019) - Thursday, December 12, 2019 Just because my Christmas projects are finished it doesn’t mean I don’t have other projects to work on. This morning I decided to clear off one of my surfaces so I could get back to my cross stitching table. In many cases I simply moved things from that surface onto another, … Continue reading On to my next project →
• Almost done (12/11/2019) - Wednesday, December 11, 2019 I spent the morning finishing up my Christmas cards and getting them ready for the mail. After lunch I went out and did all the errands I couldn’t face doing yesterday. Line-ups at the post office were long but everyone seemed in a jovial mood so I didn’t mind waiting. I … Continue reading Almost done →
• Sick day (12/10/2019) - Tuesday, December 10, 2019 I’m not sure if was the sleepless night worrying about our plumbing or perhaps the rich clam chowder I had for supper but I was sick during the night. I felt well enough this morning to think about sewing but decided not to bother. I had sewing I wanted to get … Continue reading Sick day →
• A little progress (12/9/2019) - Monday, December 9, 2019 After the excitement of yesterday I managed to settle in today and get a start on tidying up – cleaning needs to wait a bit longer. We were able to get a plumber in late yesterday afternoon to find the leak in the basement – a pipe inside the ceiling of … Continue reading A little progress →
• Let the clean-up begin (12/8/2019) - Sunday, December 8, 2019 It didn’t take me long to do the appliqué work on my last project this morning. I’ve left my sewing machine set up on the kitchen table as I may have some time tomorrow to stitch up a few cards – I’m never really finished until it is too late to … Continue reading Let the clean-up begin →
• It’s been a good day (12/7/2019) - Saturday, December 7, 2019 I’ve been busy today and making good progress but, to be honest, it has felt like a day off. I have all the hand stitching done for all my projects. There is a bit of appliqué work to be done and then I can say I’m finished. That’s not to say … Continue reading It’s been a good day →
• Happy Belated Birthday Mum (12/6/2019) - Friday, December 6, 2019 Yesterday was a busy day – I got another parcel ready for the mail, a bank deposit done for the Hall, and a little bit of last-minute shopping. And then I was off for an afternoon of sewing; I have so much hand stitching to do that it almost felt like … Continue reading Happy Belated Birthday Mum →
• One down (12/4/2019) - Wednesday, December 4, 2019 I would have liked to have stayed at home all day but that didn’t work out. I got the Hall minutes out this morning and then moved on to making tickets for an upcoming show. I had to drop them off at the newspaper office (they sell for us) and I … Continue reading One down →
• Not the best results today (12/3/2019) - Tuesday, December 3, 2019 I was up early this morning (no surprise) and before breakfast I got the two birthday packages wrapped and ready for the mail. I packed up a few things for sewing that I had forgotten when I did my packing last night. And then I got a start on the minutes … Continue reading Not the best results today →
• I’m drowning (12/2/2019) - Monday, December 2, 2019 I’m drowning – in Christmas gifts that need to be wrapped and sent in birthday cards that need to be wrapped and sent in 12 Days of Christmas piles that need to be sorted, wrapped and sent in stitching that still needs to be done for Christmas in paperwork for the … Continue reading I’m drowning →
• Priorities (11/27/2019) - Wednesday, November 27, 2019 I had my priorities set for the day. I didn’t manage to accomplish everything but I made a good start. I sorted out the last “thing” for my 12 Days of Christmas packages. I need to do a bit of shopping tomorrow and then I can get them packed up and … Continue reading Priorities →
• Making a list (11/26/2019) - Tuesday, November 26, 2019 I need to make a list and it isn’t all about Christmas. I have so many things to do that I decided this morning to list all the things that need to be done between now and the middle of December. Here goes: Minutes from the Hall meeting last night (we … Continue reading Making a list →
• All set (11/25/2019) - Monday, November 25, 2019 I was able to get the brackets I needed for my glass cabinet while I was out running errands this morning. Pat had to make some modifications but we were able to get the second shelf installed as well as the top of the cabinet put in place. I emptied three … Continue reading All set →
• Lazy Day (11/24/2019) - Sunday, November 24, 2019 I’ve had a very lazy day today – and I’m loving it! I worked on my cross stitch ornaments most of the morning. Pat came home on the noon ferry and I washed the glass shelves for my new cabinet. We got one shelf into the cabinet and realized that two … Continue reading Lazy Day →
• Felting workshop #2 (11/23/2019) - Saturday, November 23, 2019 This was a weekend of craft shows – I attended four of them. I never intend to purchase anything and I somehow always bring something home. My purchases today (gifts) were from one of our junior quilters from a few years ago – she is all grown up, graduating this year, … Continue reading Felting workshop #2 →
• I’d rather be doing paperwork (11/22/2019) - Friday, November 22, 2019 5 AM seems to be my new 7 AM. Ever since my trip to Saskatoon and then arriving home a day after the time change I can’t seem to sleep beyond five. Don’t get me wrong, I usually stay in bed until six but I’d love to sleep late one morning … Continue reading I’d rather be doing paperwork →
• Busy day (11/21/2019) - Thursday, November 21, 2019 I’ve been busy today, especially this morning, but I got a lot done. While I had my coffee I worked on an ornament for my 12 Days ‘Til Christmas set that I hope to sell at the Texada craft sale – ten down, two more to go. I wasn’t quite finished … Continue reading Busy day →
• So much to do (11/20/2019) - Wednesday, November 20, 2019 I got so involved in sorting out the Hall bookings yesterday afternoon (yes, I managed to work out the deposits) that I totally forgot about my journal and the Guild blog. I was up at 5:30 this morning though so had the Guild work done before seven. And I have more … Continue reading So much to do →
• Is it too early? (11/18/2019) - Monday, November 18, 2019 As I was driving home from the Celebration of Life yesterday I passed the first house I’ve seen with their Christmas lights on display. I think it is a bit too early don’t you? However, this morning as I was cutting the fabric for my last Christmas gifts (if you don’t … Continue reading Is it too early? →
• I may never finish (11/17/2019) - Sunday, November 17, 2019 I’m making progress (since six this morning) but my piles don’t seem to be getting any smaller. I managed to move the bedding from upstairs to the downstairs bedroom (not yet put away in the linen closet) and I have all the boxes, bins and bags moved from downstairs up to … Continue reading I may never finish →
• Do I still remember? (11/16/2019) - Saturday, November 16, 2019 It’s been so long since I did a post that I wonder if I still remember how. I’ll give it a try and see how it goes. I had a wonderful week on Texada. The quilting retreat (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) was awesome – we always have such a good time. … Continue reading Do I still remember? →
• Carrying on (11/7/2019) - Thursday, November 7, 2019 I was off the ferry for about five minutes on Monday night before heading out to the ARC Community Centre to scout out their kitchen facilities. Our Tuesday show was being held here and I had never been in the building so I wanted to see what the kitchen was like … Continue reading Carrying on →
• Where do I start? (11/6/2019) - Wednesday, November 6, 2019 I’ve been away for so long I hardly know where to begin. But let’s start with my trip to Saskatoon. I spent a day and a bit with Kathryn and crew – always fun to catch up with them even though I saw them just a short time ago. Kathryn and … Continue reading Where do I start? →
• Ready to go again (10/21/2019) - Monday, October 21, 2019 It’s been quite awhile since I sat down to write a post. Thursday was a busy day as I took care of the last minute details to pass along information for the Hall. I have to say that it is a load off my mind once the mail forwarding is switched … Continue reading Ready to go again →
• It’s a nasty day (10/16/2019) - Wednesday, October 16, 2019 It’s a nasty day out there – rain and wind. The noon ferry was cancelled but the afternoon one is set to run. Even the Texada ferry was running behind schedule this morning. I’ve spent most of the day cutting fabric in preparation for the Texada Retreat. I have Christmas fabric … Continue reading It’s a nasty day →
• It’s a wonder I made it (10/15/2019) - Tuesday, October 15, 2019 Pat and I were up until 1:30 this morning watching the Outlander series. We had already seen a few shows and watched a couple more episodes as the evening began. While Pat made a cup of tea at about episode three of the night I dug out a crochet project. I … Continue reading It’s a wonder I made it →
• Unpacking and packing (10/14/2019) - Monday, October 14, 2019 When I get home from a trip the first thing I usually do is unpack. Last night I was just too tired to do it right away and by the time I had enough energy to do it Pat had already gone to bed. He moved my suitcase from the bed … Continue reading Unpacking and packing →
• It seems a waste of time (10/9/2019) - Wednesday, October 9, 2019 I’m busy cleaning up my studio this afternoon. After two weeks of pulling fabrics and patterns to send off for my sewing week in Saskatoon I decided I should clean up a bit today. But yesterday we bought a beautiful glass-fronted display cabinet. It is the perfect size to fit under … Continue reading It seems a waste of time →
• Finishing Up (10/8/2019) - Tuesday, October 8, 2019 Pat and I were up late last night and I slept in a bit this morning. My internal alarm clock usually has me up around seven but this morning it was about 6:30 when I woke up and I thought I’d just snuggle in for a few more minutes. I woke … Continue reading Finishing Up →
• He was an amazing man! (10/5/2019) - Saturday, October 5, 2019 The McKnight / Hunter and Ogden families were celebrating in June of 2014, but today we are mourning the sudden loss of Bill. Here’s my post from a much happier day – Dr. McKnight – That’s my Cousin.
• Not exactly as planned (10/4/2019) - Friday, October 4, 2019 You’d think when you get up at six (after being awake since four) you’d accomplish a lot in the day. My plan was to get at some cutting for my Saskatoon sewing projects so I could get another free parcel ready for the mail on Tuesday. There were a number of … Continue reading Not exactly as planned →
• Third time a charm? (10/3/2019) - Thursday, October 3, 2019 I was out to the Hall first thing this morning – there was money to be collected and I hate to delay that. Since I’ve been home (and finished playing Candy Crush Saga) I’ve been up in my studio looking for small jobs to do before heading off to my afternoon … Continue reading Third time a charm? →
• Barely a dent (10/2/2019) - I was aiming to get a lot done today but I’ve barely made a dent in the pile. I had an opening at the Hall this morning so I told Pat I’d buy him breakfast at the Magpie Diner. I was a bit early at the Hall and it’s a good thing – the contractors … Continue reading Barely a dent →
• I’ve been busy (10/1/2019) - Tuesday, October 1, 2019 I spent the weekend on Texada and managed a bit of sewing. I made this Scottie Dog block for my friend at the Guild who gave me the tin cup last week. I don’t generally piece over there but I wanted it done for today so there was no choice. The … Continue reading I’ve been busy →
• I’ve puttered the day away (9/25/2019) - Wednesday, September 25, 2019 I’ve been busy all day. While I waited for our Cran Hall president to stop by I started my laundry. Then I cleaned up the laundry room and broke down a few boxes for recycling. I cleaned up the back deck next; we’ve tended to store “crap” out there and it … Continue reading I’ve puttered the day away →
• Good friends (9/24/2019) - Tuesday, September 24, 2019 When I arrived at the bee this morning there was a gift basket sitting on the corner of my table. We don’t actually have our own table but we all tend to gravitate to the same spot. I left the bag sitting as it was in the corner of four different … Continue reading Good friends →
• Whew – busy day (9/23/2019) - Monday, September 23, 2019 It’s been a pyjama day but it hasn’t been at all fun – I just never got around to getting dressed. I spent all morning getting reports ready for the Cranberry Hall meeting tonight. Both the website and our Facebook page needed to be updated and some background information gathered for … Continue reading Whew – busy day →
• Busy, Birthday and Just Lazy (9/22/2019) - Sunday, September 22, 2019 Thursday was a busy day. After sewing in the afternoon I had to get a dish ready for the pot luck and headed out the door for the unveiling of the classes and demos the Guild are planning for the year. It truly is my favourite meeting of the year. There … Continue reading Busy, Birthday and Just Lazy →
• I think I’m caught up (9/18/2019) - Wednesday, September 18, 2019 I spent all day at my computer and, with a few exceptions that are out of my control, I think I’ve caught up. There are only three items on my “To-Do” list so I think I’ve earned the rest of the day off. And what will I do with the afternoon? … Continue reading I think I’m caught up →
• It’s a little like camping (9/17/2019) - Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Although the ferry was late leaving for Texada on Friday I was over in time for dinner at the Texada Inn. I find it amusing that the Texada Inn replaced the Texada Hotel (which burned to the ground) but there is not a room to rent in the whole building. They … Continue reading It’s a little like camping →
• It’s complicated (9/13/2019) - Friday, September 13, 2019 I attended a Quilting with Rulers class at the Guild today, but the adventure started quite awhile ago. When the idea of quilting with rulers first surfaced I purchased a set of template rulers along with the ruler foot for Ruby. I used the rulers just a bit on my Celtic … Continue reading It’s complicated →
• Prepping (9/11/2019) - Wednesday, September 11, 2019 I have a lot to get done today, and most of what needs to be done is preparation for the next few days and the weekend. But before starting the prep work I got the recycling sorted, the laundry started, and some weeding done in the yard. I need to do … Continue reading Prepping →
• It’s a start (9/9/2019) - Monday, September 9, 2019 My friend Gail has been working on a fabric de-stashing sale for a few weeks. On Thursdays she is kind enough to let Jessie and I have a first look at what she has put out for sale. Tomorrow the sale will start for the general public but she said I … Continue reading It’s a start →
• 3rd Times a Charm (9/8/2019) - Sunday, September 8, 2019 Two months ago (and it is only by coincident that those dates worked out) I mentioned wearing a new outfit to the shops for my errands. In that post I admitted that I had neglected to brush my hair before leaving home. Just over a week ago we had an event … Continue reading 3rd Times a Charm →
• Excitement in the ‘hood (9/7/2019) - Saturday, September 7, 2019 Yesterday afternoon the Conservation Officers placed a bear trap in the yard across the road. There have been bears in their yard almost every year, although I’ve never seen them. Last night I was out until almost eleven waiting for the bear to come along – no luck. This morning we … Continue reading Excitement in the ‘hood →
• I’ll be snug as a bug (9/6/2019) - September 6, 2019 Part of our renovations at the studio on Texada was to replace the wood stove and move it to my workshop. Mission accomplished. The wood stove put out too much heat for the studio and, even with fans, didn’t spread it down the hall to the bedroom. This week the first stove … Continue reading I’ll be snug as a bug →
• That “Back to School” feeling (9/5/2019) - Thursday, September 5, 2019 I spent most of the morning tidying up and cleaning. I managed to get a load of laundry on the line to dry, I had a brief chat with the Hall President and made a stop at the fabric shop on my way to sewing. We have picked out a new … Continue reading That “Back to School” feeling →
• Decisions (9/4/2019) - Wednesday, September 4, 2019 For about a month, every time I drive into the carport my first thought is, “I’ve got to get those blackberries out of the roses”. Well today was the day; even though I woke up with a headache I was out the door by nine. It took me until eleven to … Continue reading Decisions →
• Sewing day (9/3/2019) - Tuesday, September 3, 2019 I was ready for quilting early so I decided to do my errands before heading off to sew. First stop was the library and then I stopped at the Post Office to mail a couple of cards. I’m four books behind schedule on my Goodreads Challenge so I was glad to … Continue reading Sewing day →
• People watching (9/1/2019) - Sunday, September 1, 2019 I’ve been going to the Sunshine Music Festival almost every year since we moved to Powell River. I generally go for one day, but I skip it if the weather is bad. Yesterday’s weather was perfect. It was cloudy, but there were only a few sprinkles of rain; it wasn’t too … Continue reading People watching →
• I better get this done now (8/30/2019) - Friday, August 30, 2019 I better get this post done now or the day will slip by as it did yesterday. I baked in the morning, went sewing in the afternoon and then we went out to Lund (again) for dinner. We wanted to support our friends Geoff and Scott who were playing their last … Continue reading I better get this done now →
• Summer is ending (8/28/2019) - Wednesday, August 28, 2019 All the signs are telling me summer is over. The luxurious yachts and boats are heading south. Flocks of geese are gathering. Last night there was such a racket from a group of starlings (more than a hundred I’m sure) that they must be preparing to migrate. Some of the trees … Continue reading Summer is ending →
• Not as prepared as I thought (8/27/2019) - Tuesday, August 27, 2019 After bragging the other day about being packed up early for the bee I got my comeuppance today. I headed out to the bee early as I wanted to stop at the post office. I was early enough that I thought I might be able to pop into the grocery store … Continue reading Not as prepared as I thought →
• Back at it (8/26/2019) - Monday, August 26, 2019 I’ve had a couple of down days – no energy, no interest in anything and relatively no progress on anything. I don’t know if I was depressed, bored, or just lazy. For the better part of those two days I knit and watched TV. I felt guilty wasting my time that … Continue reading Back at it →
• Company (8/23/2019) - Friday, August 23, 2019 I did a bit of computer work this morning, got a couple of packages ready for the mail, and squared up a few scrap blocks I’d made as leaders and enders. I reviewed the blocks I made for my miniature quilt. There were some blocks that used directional fabric and a … Continue reading Company →
• Short sewing day (8/22/2019) - Thursday, August 22, 2019 I spent the morning in my spare room upstairs. For the past several months (since we did photos for Madison’s grad) that room has been a deposit area for any number of things. Now that my sewing area is tidy (and so far I’ve been keeping it so) I thought it … Continue reading Short sewing day →
• All caught up (8/21/2019) - Wednesday, August 21, 2019 I’ve spent all day at my computer. There was some research I needed to do for the Hall and my findings led to a few documents that needed to be created, as well as a few messages that needed to be sent. Once that was done I sent out the Agenda … Continue reading All caught up →
• The usual (8/20/2019) - Tuesday, August 20, 2019 It was my bee day and there was nothing unusual about it. I worked on another miniature quilt – all the blocks are finished and next week I’ll start putting them together but I want to play a bit with the lay out this week. I had the usual errands to … Continue reading The usual →
• Cleaning day (8/19/2019) - Monday, August 19, 2019 I’ve been busy working today. No computer time, no stitching time, no knitting time – it’s been manual labour. Because today was garbage day I wanted to take care of the pail of apples I collected yesterday so the peelings and core (and just plain rotten apples) could out to the … Continue reading Cleaning day →
• Gleaning (8/18/2019) - Sunday, August 18, 2019 Don’t ask me why I remember this but I do. When I was in hospital after having my appendix removed Aunt Gertie brought me a get-well card signed by The Gleaners. I had no idea at the time what that meant, but in my mind the card was from a group … Continue reading Gleaning →
• Ahhh (8/17/2019) - Saturday, August 17, 2019 The Street Party last night was good – supper was some veggie pakoras from one of our excellent Indian restaurants, dessert was the best blackberry shortcake on the street (from the Townsite Heritage Society) and my snack before leaving was some bannock from the folks at Sliammon. It took us almost … Continue reading Ahhh →
• Not very exciting (8/16/2019) - Friday, August 16, 2019 At the last two meetings of 100+ Women Who Care I didn’t cast my vote for the winning group. But last night I backed a winner. The runners-up don’t go away empty handed though as they each get $400 which amounts to the donations made by the organizers. This is such … Continue reading Not very exciting →
• It’s a mystery (8/15/2019) - Thursday, August 15, 2019 My clean-up went well yesterday but there is still work to do. How is it that once I had my cutting table cleared and moved on to my working surface my cutting table all of a sudden was cluttered again? One day everything will have a proper place and several days/months/years … Continue reading It’s a mystery →
• Is today the day? (8/14/2019) - Is today the day I clean up this mess on my cutting table? Is today the day I clean up this mess on my hand sewing table? Is today the day I actually clean out all these bins? I don’t know, but I’m going to try!
• I think my vacation worked (8/13/2019) - Tuesday, August 13, 2019 I had a terrific day at the bee. I worked on cards all day but I accomplished a lot. The card I started last week but couldn’t finish because I had done the cutting wrong is finished and quilted. That particular card really included a bit of everything – some appliqué … Continue reading I think my vacation worked →
• I’ll adjust (8/12/2019) - Monday, August 12, 2019 My holiday is over. Pat and I both came back to Powell River this morning. Although I’m not completely unpacked I managed to find and pack enough projects to take to sewing tomorrow. I made a collection call on behalf of the Hall (never a fun conversation), got a package sent … Continue reading I’ll adjust →
• I can’t wait to get back (8/6/2019) - Tuesday, August 6, 2019 I came across on the ferry late yesterday afternoon. I originally intended to come back this morning but that meant setting the alarm and getting up early so I decided to make the trip yesterday. I had a nice day at sewing. I worked on a couple of September cards and … Continue reading I can’t wait to get back →
• I may never go home (8/2/2019) - Friday, August 2, 2019 I’ve been on Texada a week and I’ve not missed home at all. Last weekend was the Blues and Roots festival. The weather was good, I had a free pass onto the site and my job was quite simple. I was there to promote the next season of Home Routes concerts … Continue reading I may never go home →
• Getting there (7/25/2019) - Thursday, July 25, 2019 Getting there may be half the fun but the other half certainly is not getting ready. Pat and I did some running around this morning and then did some prep work for selling House Concert tickets at the festival on Texada. Late this morning, Pat got groceries while I went off … Continue reading Getting there →
• Back to normal (7/24/2019) - Wednesday, July 24, 2019 I was at my computer at six this morning but I was back to my “normal” work. I got the Hall minutes sent off and took care of a few other jobs that resulted from the meeting. Once those tasks were done I tackled my own paper work. It was after … Continue reading Back to normal →
• Done (7/23/2019) - Tuesday, July 23, 2019 It’s done (the manuscript) and I’m done! I would have liked to have slept in this morning but it was a bee day and I had nothing prepared. The alarm went off at six but I stayed in bed until seven. It is surprising how quickly you can pull things together … Continue reading Done →
• I’m almost finished (7/22/2019) - Monday, July 22, 2019 I spent most of the day yesterday at the computer, with only a small break to go to the Hall to clean out kitchen cupboards. Our renovations started today so everything in the kitchen had to find a new home. As Pat says, for someone not on the Reno Committee I’ve … Continue reading I’m almost finished →
• More of the same (7/20/2019) - Saturday, July 20, 2019 I was about to take a break from my proof-reading this morning when Pat sent me a message from Texada. Rather than return the message I picked up the phone and called him. While we were talking Pat said he had shared a Facebook memory and I should look at it. … Continue reading More of the same →
• I’m hiding (7/19/2019) - Friday, July 19, 2019 When I called Moreen yesterday to cancel the walk we had planned for this afternoon I told her I had so much work to do that I was going to pretend I was on Texada; I wasn’t going to go out or answer the phone. Pat left for Texada on the … Continue reading I’m hiding →
• Back at my computer (7/18/2019) - Thursday, July 18, 2019 I came home from the meeting with a bit of work that needed to be done before noon today. Before bed last night I wrote up and sent off a few documents to be reviewed by the Board. My alarm was set for six this morning but when I woke up … Continue reading Back at my computer →
• Too stormy for weeds (7/17/2019) - Wednesday, July 17, 2019 It isn’t really too stormy for weeds but I’m using that as an excuse for no getting out to the carport. It has been windy all day and threatening rain but, except for rain overnight, there haven’t been any showers. I’ve been at my computer all day doing my proof-reading. It … Continue reading Too stormy for weeds →
• What happened to yesterday? (7/16/2019) - Tuesday, July 16, 2019 I spent five hours yesterday in the front yard pulling weeds out of the patio bricks. Pat gave them the vinegar treatment on Sunday afternoon and by Sunday night they had shrivelled up and turned brown. Most of them came out well but there were a few roots left behind. Next … Continue reading What happened to yesterday? →
• What day is it? (7/14/2019) - Sunday, July 14, 2019 The Guild had their annual summer retreat (this was our second year but I know we’re going back again) on Friday and Saturday. I made good progress on a couple of things – a Guild class project (9-Patch) now has new life as a Disappearing 9-Patch. It wasn’t magic, it took … Continue reading What day is it? →
• Busy all day (7/11/2019) - Thursday, July 11, 2019 I made a big pot of coffee this morning because I had a lot of computer work to do. I got most of the computer work done but only took time for one cup of coffee. I guess I’m ahead for tomorrow morning. I worked until it was past time to … Continue reading Busy all day →
• Two good days (7/10/2019) - Wednesday, July 10, 2019 I’ve had two very productive days; it seems like a long time since I’ve been able to say that. Sewing, perhaps, wasn’t as productive as it could have been. I took a card to finish but it didn’t work out as planned. I traced the embroidery part of the card and … Continue reading Two good days →
• What happened to the day? (7/8/2019) - Monday, July 8, 2019 I purposely came home from Texada yesterday so I could have a full day at home and finish tidying up my sewing area. The afternoon is almost gone and I haven’t tidied or straightened a thing; I guess the good news here is that I don’t think I’ve created any more … Continue reading What happened to the day? →
• What a good day (7/4/2019) - Thursday, July 4, 2019 We were up and out the door yesterday in plenty of time to catch the first ferry to Comox. While we waited in the ferry line-up we checked to see if there was any shopping in the area around Pat’s doctor’s office. There wasn’t so when we got to Nanaimo he … Continue reading What a good day →
• Unpacking (7/2/2019) - Tuesday, July 2, 2019 I stayed up last night long enough to watch the fireworks. The house was really hot so when the sun started to set and it was cooler I went outside and mowed the grass. I use that term “grass” loosely because most of what I did was mow down the weeds … Continue reading Unpacking →
• I’m not alone (7/1/2019) - Monday, July 1, 2019 I spent most of the weekend in my Texada studio and I loved every minute of it. I quilted two small quilts, made a card, and started a new project. I thought I would post a few photos of my new space. This is where I sew. It looks pretty stark … Continue reading I’m not alone →
• The things I do for avocados! (6/27/2019) - Thursday, June 27, 2019 I spent the morning upstairs in my sewing room re-arranging yet again. My cutting table wasn’t working out so I turned it around and that opened up a lot of other opportunities. I moved a filing cabinet, I moved my scrap fabric cabinet, I moved two bins of yarn. There is … Continue reading The things I do for avocados! →
• Lots done (6/26/2019) - Wednesday, June 26, 2019 It was a stay-at-home day for me (well almost) and I got a lot done. I spent the morning getting the Hall books ready for the accountants. I was pretty much ready to go but there were a couple of spreadsheets where the numbers didn’t match up exactly and I had … Continue reading Lots done →
• It felt good at the time (6/25/2019) - Tuesday, June 25, 2019 I was up early this morning and by 8:30 I said to Pat I thought I was ready to go back to bed for a nap. But this is a sewing day so I headed out the door instead. I packed a few cards to work on, as well as a … Continue reading It felt good at the time →
• It’s impossible (6/24/2019) - Monday, June 24, 2019 I’ve been really trying to keep things neat – well at least not adding to the mess I already have. I spent the morning working on reports for the Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight. I also had a deposit to make and in both cases my desk extension worked very well. … Continue reading It’s impossible →
• I knew exactly what I wanted to do (6/23/2019) - Sunday, June 23, 2019 As I sat and knit with my first cup of coffee this morning I decided that today was the day I was going to clear off my cutting table, move it across the room to its new location, and add in the table I brought back from Texada that will be … Continue reading I knew exactly what I wanted to do →
• A roped-in volunteer (6/22/2019) - Saturday, June 22, 2019 I decided that the yard couldn’t wait any longer for my hip/leg to stop hurting so I got back to it today. I didn’t do much; I set the sprinkler up in a couple of spots and gave the front yard a good soak. I know that it will help the … Continue reading A roped-in volunteer →
• I’m never going there again! (6/21/2019) - Friday, June 21, 2019 There was no sewing done yesterday at the session; Gail purchased nine totes of fabric from someone who was clearing out his wife’s stash. She had planned to have it all put away before we arrived but she was only into her second tote so there was no room for machines. … Continue reading I’m never going there again! →
• Where does the day go? (6/19/2019) - Wednesday, June 19, 2019 I planned to get a lot done today and, looking back, I guess I accomplished quite a bit. I finished five loads of laundry and hung most of it on the line. I sorted out the recycling and Pat took it to the two different depots. I cleared off a section … Continue reading Where does the day go? →
• Getting back to it (6/18/2019) - Tuesday, June 18, 2019 It feels like I’m back in the swing of things since my vacation. I’m not caught up yet, but I’m back to my regular comings and goings. I spent all day yesterday at my computer; I got through my e-mail messages; I shortened my Reminder list from 30+ to a more … Continue reading Getting back to it →
• It’s good to be home (6/13/2019) - Thursday, June 13, 2019 It’s good to be home, even if it is only for a few hours. I had a lovely time with everyone and after every trip I wish I lived closer to my family. Time away from home gave me a better perspective on the things I like doing (i.e., the things … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• Walmart (5/28/2019) - Tuesday, May 28, 2019 Yesterday I upgraded my cell phone from a pay-as-you-go plan to a monthly plan. When I left the store I didn’t have any service but that was because they had to swap my old number out and into my new carrier; I was assured that would happen by mid-afternoon. By after … Continue reading Walmart →
• I was wrong (5/27/2019) - Monday, May 27, 2019 I thought once the AGM for the Hall was over I’d be able to concentrate on my packing list. Not so. Since I’ll be gone two weeks it seemed like I should get the minutes from the AGM circulated. The Board had a short meeting directly following the AGM so I … Continue reading I was wrong →
• Pyjama Day (5/25/2019) - Saturday, May 25, 2019 By the time I’d made one (of two) blocks I needed for the Guild and had breakfast it was ten. I was still in my pyjamas and, since I was headed back upstairs to my sewing room, I decided today would be a pyjama day. I haven’t had one in a … Continue reading Pyjama Day →
• Is it better because it’s free? (5/24/2019) - Friday, May 24, 2019 Tuesday morning before I headed out to sewing the phone rang. It was the local radio station and I had no desire to answer it and find out I didn’t know the answer to whatever question they might be asking (sorry Dave, you probably get some of those). When I got … Continue reading Is it better because it’s free? →
• I’m glad I started early (5/22/2019) - Wednesday, May 22, 2019 I was at my desk at seven this morning and I’ve been up here all day. Today was a clean-up day for me and a chance to sort out what needs to be done before I leave. The list is growing but I think I can still accomplish it all. Once … Continue reading I’m glad I started early →
• A first (5/21/2019) - Tuesday, May 21, 2019 I was up at six because I had a number of things I needed to get done before heading off to the bee. With the exception of forgetting a couple of things I was ready to go at the usual time. I finished the binding on my quilt and then moved … Continue reading A first →
• I’ve found a bonus (5/20/2019) - Monday, May 20, 2019 I had a Hall meeting this morning at nine so I was up early getting things tidied up; I started tidying yesterday and then got side tracked by my knitting and planting. I was ready for everyone in plenty of time and the meeting went well. As a result of some … Continue reading I’ve found a bonus →
• Hall day – all day (5/19/2019) - Sunday, May 19, 2019 I haven’t actually been at the Hall all day but it certainly feels like it. I did some cleaning this morning before a noon meeting with a couple of other Board members. One of our Board has some health issues and we were sorting out how (and who) things would work … Continue reading Hall day – all day →
• Collage – Day Two (5/18/2019) - Saturday, May 18, 2019 There is still a lot of work to do but I got further along than I expected I would and I liked the process a lot more than I expected. It is thanks though to our very creative teachers that it looks as good as it does.
• Collage – Day One (5/17/2019) - Friday, May 17, 2019 I didn’t expect to like this Guild class as much as I am liking it. It was the second time around for the class this year so I thought it must be a technique I should know. It is easy enough to do although it involves a lot of work. And, … Continue reading Collage – Day One →
• It stinks (5/16/2019) - Thursday, May 16, 2019 Pat cooked fish for dinner last night and the house still stinks. I simmered lemons for an hour this morning and I thought it was better. I closed up the house to go to stitching this afternoon and when I came home it was just as bad as ever. I have … Continue reading It stinks →
• I need to be quick (5/15/2019) - Wednesday, May 15, 2019 Pat and I worked in the yard this morning – one of us spent more time out there than the other. Pat trimmed some bushes and trees and transplanted a few things; I was back weeding. I have one more section of the front beds to do and then I’ll start … Continue reading I need to be quick →
• It must be summer (5/14/2019) - In spite of the rain we’ve had all day, summer is definitely here. I drove to the Hall after sewing and came home along Marine Drive. The 30 km speed signs are up at Willingdon Beach and that’s a sure sign of summer. I had a good session at the bee today. Everyone loved my … Continue reading It must be summer →
• I was not alone (5/13/2019) - Monday, May 13, 2019 I was back in the yard working again today; the lilacs are still putting out their scent and, since I was cutting it back, I had some lovely lavender scents. Pat came out and did some trimming as well – some of the bushes have received hair cuts and he mowed … Continue reading I was not alone →
• Happy Mother’s Day (5/12/2019) - Sunday, May 12, 2019 I was in a grocery store the May following Mum’s passing. I walked by their stationery aisle and I burst into tears realizing I wouldn’t have Mum to buy a card for anymore. These days I celebrate Mother’s Day by acknowledging the great job my own daughters are doing as mother’s. … Continue reading Happy Mother’s Day →
• Just getting started (5/11/2019) - Saturday, May 11, 2019 I wanted to go out to the store this morning to pick up some extra needles just in case I continued to break them over the weekend. Then I remembered I had a library book to pick up so I added that to the list. I needed gas and also some … Continue reading Just getting started →
• Getting back on the horse (5/10/2019) - Friday, May 10, 2019 Yesterday I was ready to start some free-motion quilting but I wanted to do a little practice before starting on the “real” thing. I had a miniature quilt that had to be done for Tuesday; it was all cut so I sewed it together, did a bit of stabilizing and got … Continue reading Getting back on the horse →
• A good day to be in the yard (5/8/2019) - Wednesday, May 8, 2019 I spent the first part of my morning working on a task for the Hall. I’ve had it on my desk for a couple of weeks but I’ll leave it for one more check tomorrow before finalizing it and sending it off. Wednesday means a morning in the yard and today … Continue reading A good day to be in the yard →
• My own little bee (5/7/2019) - Tuesday, May 7, 2019 I was at my computer by 6:30 this morning trying to catch up on some paperwork. I managed to clear a few things off my desktop but it is going to take a lot of early mornings if I’m to get caught up anytime soon. I decided to skip the Guild … Continue reading My own little bee →
• I needed that (5/6/2019) - Monday, May 7, 2019 I took a mid-morning ferry to Texada on Saturday; I haven’t driven over for quite awhile but there was no way I could do a walk-on with all my baking. The sound check was supposed to be Saturday afternoon at two. I knew that a couple of the Legion ladies were … Continue reading I needed that →
• I’m glad that’s done (5/3/2019) - Friday, May 3, 2019 I’ve been baking and cooking since eight this morning and I’m finally done. I made a lemon bundt cake, a chocolate bundt cake, gingersnap cookies and rice krispie squares. After those were done and packed up for Texada I cooked up a batch of rhubarb; sadly not from my garden but … Continue reading I’m glad that’s done →
• Out in the yard (5/1/2019) - Wednesday, May 1, 2019 My alarm went off at six but I persuaded myself to stay in bed until I woke again at seven. I had a lot to do today but I didn’t actually have to go anywhere so I thought I’d take advantage of that extra hour. My first task for the day … Continue reading Out in the yard →
• Another day of sewing (4/30/2019) - Tuesday, April 30, 2019 Our Board meeting last night was lively and long. I took Moreen along as she thought she might join the Board and take over my secretarial duties. She was quiet on the way home and I assured her that there was no pressure to do anything she wasn’t comfortable with. She … Continue reading Another day of sewing →
• Great weekend (4/29/2019) - Monday, April 29, 2019 What a fun weekend; I’m happy to report that I was very productive too. I did some work on every project I took with me, except for cards (which really should have been the first thing I worked on). We did two group projects – one a small bag (filled with … Continue reading Great weekend →
• My bags are packed (4/26/2019) - Friday, April 26, 2019 Do you think I have enough stuff to last me for the weekend?
• Decisions (4/25/2019) - Thursday, April 25, 2019 I was awake at five and while I tried desperately to get back to sleep for that hour before my alarm went off I had no luck. On a positive note though I realized during that time that one of our Hall renters needed to pay me rent. I only collect … Continue reading Decisions →
• Is it any better? (4/24/2019) - Wednesday, April 24, 2019 I’ve started setting my alarm for 6 AM so that I can get in a couple of hours at the computer before my day really starts. It feels a little like work; answering e-mail and taking care of computer tasks all while I have my coffee. I do see that I’m … Continue reading Is it any better? →
• I can’t seem to get ahead (4/22/2019) - Monday, April 22, 2019 I spent all morning at the computer working on Pat’s accounts, paying some of my own bills, and working on some Cranberry Hall business. I thought it would be a quick finish to get the Hall’s tax exemption application filled in but, since last year, the form has changed considerably and … Continue reading I can’t seem to get ahead →
• Happy Easter (4/21/2019) - Sunday, April 21, 2019 The weather didn’t cooperate for me today so I didn’t get my quilt sandwiched. I spent the morning working on my Rail Fence quilt and it’s ready for the final border. I was feeling guilty about the yard work so I went out and cut the grass. If I didn’t get … Continue reading Happy Easter →
• I shouldn’t be sitting here (4/20/2019) - Saturday, April 20, 2019 It is a beautiful day out there. Moreen and I went for a long walk this morning (more than our 10,000 steps). I love walking with Moreen as she isn’t afraid to follow a branch of a trail just to see where it goes. Today we were on a very muddy … Continue reading I shouldn’t be sitting here →
• One a Penny, Two a Penny (4/19/2019) - Friday, April 18, 2019 I’m usually further ahead on the Easter front than I am this year. I made my Hot Cross Buns this morning and they were done in time for a taste test at lunch – yum! I’ve been puttering around on my computer for the part of my day that wasn’t spent … Continue reading One a Penny, Two a Penny →
• Renewals and starting over (4/18/2019) - It was nice to catch up with Mary Flower (one of our performers) and get to know Doug Cox (the other performer). This being the third time Mary has been here, she walked right in and knew where “her” room was. She appreciated the soap and before they left for the ferry this morning they … Continue reading Renewals and starting over →
• Are we getting old? (4/16/2019) - Tuesday, April 16, 2019 Most mornings I put my socks on while standing up – I consider it my yoga pose for balance. My back has been sore and this morning I sat in my chair to put my socks on. Pat says he always sits to put his socks on and I made the … Continue reading Are we getting old? →
• A quick turn-around (4/14/2019) - Sunday, April 14, 2019 It seemed like a short trip to the studio this weekend. We intended to catch the mid-morning ferry on Friday but Pat remembered he had a meeting in the afternoon so we didn’t head across until mid-afternoon. Moreen and I had time for a walk in the morning; we followed a … Continue reading A quick turn-around →
• Lost and found (4/11/2019) - Thursday, April 11, 2019 Several months ago I found the charge cord for my FitBit – it had been missing for months before that. I charged it up and on our trip to the studio at Christmas I used it when we did one of our hikes. Once I was home the FitBit ran down … Continue reading Lost and found →
• Problems (4/10/2019) - Wednesday, April 10, 2019 My last computer task last night was to get the Guild blog posted but I had problems and at 9:30 I was still at it. Last week when I posted I had a problem because I ran out of space and not all my photos would load. I cleared a few … Continue reading Problems →
• It doesn’t seem like progress but … (4/9/2019) - Tuesday, April 9, 2019 I was back working on my Half-Square Triangle quilt today. I changed my mind (again) on the setting; I think I’ve committed myself far enough into the project that changing my mind again would be too much work no matter how good the idea. I stitched one block to test my … Continue reading It doesn’t seem like progress but … →
• Not done yet (4/8/2019) - Monday, April 8, 2019 In spite of an early start this morning my day is far from done. Our performers were leaving this morning on the 7:30 ferry for Vancouver. They planned to be out of the house by 6:15 so I was up at 5:30 to get the coffee started. They slept as late … Continue reading Not done yet →
• It’s like a day off (4/7/2019) - Sunday, April 7, 2019 We hurried out the door this morning so we could get the sound equipment set up for tonight’s show. I offered to help Pat get it out to the truck and then said if he wanted to head down to the Hall right away I’d go along and help. I was … Continue reading It’s like a day off →
• Stormy day (4/6/2019) - It’s a windy day out there today. It has died down somewhat now and I expect the afternoon ferry will run but that will be the first one of the day. Even the ferries from Texada were cancelled. I have to admit though that the sun on the whitecaps on the ocean looked quite pretty … Continue reading Stormy day →
• A lazy day (4/5/2019) - Friday, April 5, 2019 Thursday seems to be the day I most often miss posting. I always think I’ll have more time between events than I do and then I get rushed and posting gets pushed off the list. I spent more time than I intended yesterday morning prepping some Splendid Sampler blocks to take … Continue reading A lazy day →
• A little of this and that (4/3/2019) - Wednesday, April 3, 2019 I’ve been busy all day but almost nothing is completely done. I managed to finish a small card/gift but it didn’t turn out very well. I will consider re-making it at some point, but not today. I trimmed the blocks that I made yesterday for my community quilt. In order to … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• New project (4/2/2019) - Tuesday, April 2, 2019 I started on the first of my April UFO Challenges at the bee today. It is a community quilt that I started last year. The Guild workshop was meant to teach us the accordion-style for making HSTs (Half-Square Triangles); I missed the workshop and never did figure out the way to … Continue reading New project →
• Did you get caught? (4/1/2019) - Monday, April 1, 2019 I didn’t get caught with any spoofs today, and I didn’t play any on anyone. And I wasn’t on Facebook much so I didn’t even see any of the spoof attempts that might have been made. We had a great weekend at the studio – the weather was fabulous and I … Continue reading Did you get caught? →
• Showtime (3/27/2019) - Wednesday, March 27, 2019 We’re all set for the show tonight at the Hall. I peeled potatoes and Pat put together the Shepherd’s Pie for dinner. He’s at the Hall right now getting everything set up and the LynneS will meet him there for a sound check before coming home for supper. They like to … Continue reading Showtime →
• Some progress (3/26/2019) - Tuesday, March 26, 2019 It was a long Board meeting last night and I ended up with a few extra items on my to-do list. I guess I must be feeling refreshed as I’m actually looking forward to some of it. We’ll be busy planning for our AGM in May but it looks like we … Continue reading Some progress →
• I’m ready (3/25/2019) - Monday, March 25, 2019 Our guests will be arriving any moment now so this will have to be quick. Pat and one of the performers has a concert on Texada tomorrow night and then both of our guests will be performing at Cranberry Hall on Wednesday. A little longer stay than usual but the work … Continue reading I’m ready →
• I’m back to normal (3/24/2019) - Sunday, March 24, 2019 I’m back to normal – well as normal as I ever get. I still have piles of paper and a number of things on my to-do list but that doesn’t seem to change much from week to week. Pat and I worked in the yard again this morning. It is so … Continue reading I’m back to normal →
• There is no quick fix (3/23/2019) - Saturday, March 23, 2019 The organization/decluttering workshop this afternoon was interesting and the woman was very entertaining. She has recently moved to Powell River and operates an organizing business. For the most part there were no new ideas; I’d heard most of it before and I just need to follow the steps more often. I … Continue reading There is no quick fix →
• The show is over … (3/22/2019) - Friday, March 22, 2019 All my days are busy but yesterday I really didn’t have time to post. Pat arrived home on an early ferry so by the time we had coffee and sorted out plans for the week there wasn’t much left of the morning. We drove south of town so I could pick … Continue reading The show is over … →
• It’s a good start (3/20/2019) - Wednesday, March 20, 2019 I was determined that this week I would get my sewing rooms cleaned up. I had hoped to go across to Texada and veg this week but things didn’t work out. I’ll feel better for the rest of the week if I manage to clear my spaces, including the spaces in … Continue reading It’s a good start →
• The day after (3/18/2019) - Monday, March 18, 2019 The show is over but the work isn’t done – at least for me. It took me two car loads to get everything to the Hall on Friday. It was a long day getting everything set up. I had to be there early as I was supplying the coffee and hot … Continue reading The day after →
• A more productive day (3/12/2019) - Tuesday, March 12, 2019 This was a more productive day than yesterday – but then how could it not be? Pat and I got the living room set up for the concert tonight and then I headed off to the bee. I took four of my Splendid Sampler 2 blocks to work on and came … Continue reading A more productive day →
• This was an easy day (3/11/2019) - Monday, March 11, 2019 Pat came home last evening and we had a lazy start to the day. It was rainy and dull and neither one of us had anywhere we needed to be. I wasted away the morning by going through some quilting magazines to see if there were any I was ready to … Continue reading This was an easy day →
• A slow day (3/10/2019) - Sunday, March 10, 2019 Due to the time change yesterday the day has passed quickly but I’ve been moving slowly through it. I spent some time this morning cleaning in preparation for the House Concert on Tuesday. Pat and I chatted about the work I still need to do for the quilt show and decided … Continue reading A slow day →
• Down the rabbit hole (3/9/2019) - March 9, 2019 I think I need to get back to some sewing. This morning while I wasted time looking at Facebook I found a pattern I really liked. I found the book on Amazon and ordered it. Again, while on Facebook I saw a book that I had on my To Read list. I … Continue reading Down the rabbit hole →
• Two busy days (3/8/2019) - Friday, March 8, 2019 Thursday morning I continued with my organization and clean-up. I’m not done yet but I’m making progress. In fact I’ve made as much progress as I can until I make a few more storage decisions (I’m thinking a bigger room!). Thursday afternoon I was sewing with the group. I’m using one … Continue reading Two busy days →
• That felt good (3/6/2019) - Wednesday, March 6, 2019 Moreen and I ventured out for a walk this morning, our first since the snow started more than two weeks ago. We took a new path we had both heard about, one that neither of us had been on. We were never far from a house or business so we didn’t … Continue reading That felt good →
• Back at it (3/5/2019) - Tuesday, March 5, 2019 Although I’m a long way from catching up on my Tuesday projects it was nice to be making headway today at the bee. I took two cards to work on and threw in my jelly roll rug just in case I had time. The first card went very quickly – I … Continue reading Back at it →
• We are easily amused (3/4/2019) - Monday, March 4, 2019 After Pat had is cataract surgery he knew he would need new glasses. He had been waiting a long time for his eye test due to the issued he had with the second surgery. He had that test last week and priced the cost of glasses in town. Way more money … Continue reading We are easily amused →
• Who is this person? (3/3/2019) - Sunday, March 3, 2019 I’ve become a different person since finishing my quilt show projects. Yesterday morning I started organizing my sewing room. I want to separate all my “in progress” projects from the “waiting to start” projects. I’m following two UFO challenges and there are a few Guild projects that I need to catch … Continue reading Who is this person? →
• Show time (3/1/2019) - Friday, March 1, 2019 I used my cleaning time this morning to start work on my studio – the sewing side. When things look like they do right now, ninety minutes doesn’t really do much to put a dent in the mess. So after lunch I’ve continued the task. Going into the day I knew … Continue reading Show time →
• The perfect time to clean (2/28/2019) - Thursday, February 28, 2019 I was up fairly early this morning and started stitching the binding down on my Farmer’s Daughter quilt while I had my coffee. About 8:30 I thought I should get started on my “real” day but then I had a brilliant idea. I’m a morning person and once I get started … Continue reading The perfect time to clean →
• One down (2/27/2019) - Wednesday, February 27, 2019 I have my Farmer’s Wife quilt finished. It took me the morning to get the binding stitched down. This afternoon I made a bit of a modification to the sleeve and got that stitched down. I’m not sure I’ll have time to get started on my Farmer’s Daughter – I’m feeling … Continue reading One down →
• Can I do it? (2/26/2019) - Tuesday, February 26, 2019 I would really like to be ready for the quilt show by the end of the month – which means Thursday. I finished the Guild Challenge today and I put the binding together for my Farmer’s Daughter quilt. I have a busy day tomorrow but I should have time to get … Continue reading Can I do it? →
• Tidying up – the Pat and Sherry way (2/25/2019) - Monday, February 25, 2019 I’ve read the book by Marie Kondo but I haven’t watched the Netflix series; there were a few good ideas in the book but there were a lot of ideas I thought were a bit silly. Some of my things are just “things”; they may not spark joy but they are … Continue reading Tidying up – the Pat and Sherry way →
• It almost feels like a day off (2/24/2019) - Sunday, February 24, 2019 I quilted all day yesterday and by supper I was almost finished the quilting on my Farmer’s Daughter quilt. After supper and an episode of Bosch I headed back upstairs and got it finished. Although I know there is much more to do (sleeve, label, binding) it is a great relief … Continue reading It almost feels like a day off →
• Still not done (2/22/2019) - Friday, February 22, 2019 I’ve been quilting on my Farmer’s Daughter all day and I’m still not done. I’m working on three or four blocks at a time and I keep thinking that when they are done I must be finished. But no, there still seem to be blocks that are only half finished. It … Continue reading Still not done →
• Oh my! (2/21/2019) - Thursday, February 21, 2019 Last night was fabulous. Contrary to what we thought was going to happen there were fourteen of us in the restaurant, all as guests of the chef. No one except the chef did any cooking and what an amazing meal we had. He did all the cooking on a two burner … Continue reading Oh my! →
• Something different (2/20/2019) - Wednesday, February 20, 2019 When we went out to our Valentine’s dinner it was to a new restaurant – well not exactly new but an old restaurant run by a new chef. We saw online that he was offering cooking classes on a night when the restaurant was closed to the public. My dinner on … Continue reading Something different →
• It’s a little like hiking (2/19/2019) - Tuesday, February 19, 2019 I was quilting this morning and the thought was going through my head that my method is a little like hiking a new trail. I need to mark my quilting lines but didn’t want to spend a lot of time doing it so I’m using short lines (almost a dash) along … Continue reading It’s a little like hiking →
• What were you doing back then? (2/18/2019) - Monday, February 18, 2019 Our last house concert performer was from PEI and she lives about five minutes from one of the Bed and Breakfast’s we stayed at (the one in the lighthouse). She is also a quilter and her aunt owns a shop. After dinner one night while she was here I dug out … Continue reading What were you doing back then? →
• Now where was I? (2/17/2019) - Sunday, February 17, 2019 As if I didn’t have enough to catch up on, an update to my website has completely changed (and in my opinion not in a better way) how I write my posts. So if things look strange and different, I’m still in a learning phase. The film festival continued, although I … Continue reading Now where was I? →
• Back to the drawing board (2/13/2019) - Wednesday, February 13, 2019 I was ready this morning to start some free-motion quilting on my Farmer’s Wife quilt; this was going to be an easy day and by the end of it I’d be ready for binding. But after five needle breaks I realized it was going to be a tough day! Needle 1 … Continue reading Back to the drawing board →
• The continuing adventure (2/12/2019) - Tuesday, February 12, 2019 We only had 17 people show up for our Powell River house concert on Sunday night; fortunately 34 people had pre-paid for the event so our performer (Meaghan Blanchard) wasn’t out any money. It had started snowing in the late afternoon and by four people were calling to say they weren’t … Continue reading The continuing adventure →
• Checking in (2/10/2019) - Sunday, February 10, 2019 Just checking in to let you know we haven’t (yet) been buried in snow. The second batch of snow is still on the ground and we are getting another bunch now. It has been so cold that they are letting us into the movie theatre early so we don’t all freeze … Continue reading Checking in →
• Snow, movies and quilting (2/8/2019) - Friday, February 8, 2019 I’m still sorting out whether or not it was a good Guild meeting last night or a terrible one. On the good side my name was drawn for a gift certificate from the fabric shop and I got another lovely package from my Secret Pat. Also on the good side I … Continue reading Snow, movies and quilting →
• I get to … (2/7/2019) - Thursday, February 7, 2019 I saw this on Facebook this morning: Begin your day with an “I get to” mentality instead of a “I have to” thought process … I GET to go to work. I GET to have a busy day. Whatever it may be. We often dress our opportunities as stress, but they … Continue reading I get to … →
• It’s been a busy day (2/6/2019) - Wednesday, February 6, 2019 It’s been a busy day and it is nowhere near done. I got up early so I could get a bit of quilting done before the rest of the day got started. I had meetings scheduled for the Hall at ten and again at eleven so I knew the morning would … Continue reading It’s been a busy day →
• Kung Hei Fat Choy (2/5/2019) - Tuesday, February 5, 2019 For whatever reason I remember when Elizabeth learned about the Chinese New Year at school. I think at one point we even made fortune cookies – they were messy and we never did it again. The greeting though has stayed with me. I’d like to go out for Chinese food tonight … Continue reading Kung Hei Fat Choy →
• I’m a winner (2/4/2019) - Monday, February 4, 2019 No actual skill involved but I’m very excited by the win anyway.
• Behind my back (2/3/2019) - Sunday, February 3, 2019 I was up at seven and checked out the window to see if the snow they had promised had arrived. Nope, nothing so it looked like my walk would be on. I sat in my chair, had my coffee and then opened the blinds at about eight. How did this happen? … Continue reading Behind my back →
• What would you do if you had 30 minutes? (2/2/2019) - Saturday, February 2, 2019 I did a bit of tidying up in my sewing room this morning – I needed to clear off a table so when I started quilting I had a place for the quilt to rest. I cleaned and oiled my machine, I changed the needle and I filled three bobbins. I … Continue reading What would you do if you had 30 minutes? →
• An early present (2/1/2019) - Friday, February 1, 2019 I spent all morning on my hands and knees sandwiching my Farmer’s Wife quilt. Because I was using two of Mum’s quilt tops as backing to my quilt I felt it was important to get it as tightly sandwiched as possible. I did my best, but in the end I don’t … Continue reading An early present →
• Good show last night … good day today (1/31/2019) - Thursday, January 31, 2019 The show last night was great and I almost managed not to do any work. The doors for the show were to open at seven but when we got there about 6:45 (as a Board member Pat thought we could get in early) there were already folks in the main hall. … Continue reading Good show last night … good day today →
• A night out (1/30/2019) - Wednesday, January 30, 2019 I started to work on my Cranberry Hall minutes and associated duties yesterday afternoon and continued with that throughout the morning. To be fair, some of the work I did had been put off for a couple of months and I’m slowly, very slowly, getting organized. I’m not sure why it … Continue reading A night out →
• A reprieve (1/29/2019) - Tuesday, January 29, 2019 For the first time in quite awhile I actually had to find some projects to take to the bee. I’ve been hand stitching on my Farmer’s Daughter quilt for so long that even the other ladies noticed I was working on something new – and wondered if I had finished the … Continue reading A reprieve →
• OMG – Did I do it wrong again? (1/28/2019) - Monday, January 28, 2019 My task for today was to get to the recycle depot, the bottle depot, and get the photos printed for the quilt show forms. I finished at the recycle depot and when they wouldn’t take my light bulbs I had to make a stop at Rona. Rona and the mall where … Continue reading OMG – Did I do it wrong again? →
• A morning off (1/27/2019) - Sunday, January 27, 2019 It took me longer than I thought last night to stitch down the last thee flower appliqués. I stuck with it though but was in bed later than usual. So I decided to take the morning off – well off in the sense that I didn’t do any sewing. I sorted … Continue reading A morning off →
• I did my part (1/26/2019) - Saturday, January 26, 2019 Did you know that today was International Support Your Local Quilt Shop Day? I didn’t either until I saw it on Facebook this morning. Apparently no one else did because when I stopped in at the shop Deb said I was her only customer so far (and it was after noon … Continue reading I did my part →
• Twice is too much (1/25/2019) - Friday, January 25, 2019 We had a lovely visit with Peggy and Bill yesterday. They managed to get aboard the very, very early ferry from Comox and were here by 7:30 AM. We visited in the waiting room until it was time to catch the ferry across to Texada. We had a short time at … Continue reading Twice is too much →
• Second time lucky? (1/23/2019) - Wednesday, January 23, 2019 I was looking forward to having a day at home today. My Hall showing was switched to Friday and I didn’t need any groceries. But about nine this morning Moreen called and said she’d be at the house by ten so we could go out walking. We seem to be having … Continue reading Second time lucky? →
• I’m falling further and further behind (1/22/2019) - Tuesday, January 22, 2019 I didn’t sleep well last night and I didn’t set the alarm for this morning. I woke about eight which, had I rushed, I still could have been out the door at my usual time. But I didn’t rush – I had a last-minute thing I needed to do for the … Continue reading I’m falling further and further behind →
• Back to normal? (1/21/2019) - Monday, January 21, 2019 I should have been getting back to normal after several days of sewing but that certainly wasn’t the case. One of the projects we planned for Sunday was a table topper called a Triangle Frenzie. When I came home on Friday night I checked my bins and saw that I had … Continue reading Back to normal? →
• Big mistake (1/18/2019) - Friday, January 18, 2019 I’m in charge of lunch today (at our Thursday group mini-retreat) so yesterday morning I got a soup ready for the crock pot. I originally planned to just prep the meat but Pat suggested it might be easier to make the soup and then just heat it up in time for … Continue reading Big mistake →
• Maybe I went too far (1/16/2019) - Wednesday, January 16, 2019 Moreen and I went for another walk today and we may have taken it too far. She drove to the house and we walked from here down to Willingdon Beach – a relatively good walk. From there we walked the Willingdon Beach Trail (the Mighty Machine Trail to my grandchildren). But … Continue reading Maybe I went too far →
• 4 or is it 8? (1/15/2019) - Tuesday, January 15, 2019 Today was the first time in three weeks that I’ve been at the Guild’s sewing bee; it was lovely to catch up with everyone. I was hand stitching today – more work to be done on my Farmer’s Daughter quilt. I’m not sure if I feel I’ve accomplished more by saying … Continue reading 4 or is it 8? →
• Happy Feet (1/14/2019) - Monday, January 14, 2019 I haven’t accomplished much today but that is usually the case when Pat returns from Texada. I managed to take care of a bit of my paper work but some of the sewing-related things I had planned didn’t even get started. I put Taylor’s quilt in the mail this afternoon and … Continue reading Happy Feet →
• What a day (1/13/2019) - Sunday, January 13, 2019 The sun was shining and, for just a brief moment, I thought about getting out in the yard and doing some work. Not much, but cutting back some of the gladioli stems and taking out a few weeds. Moreen (who is a gardener for hire) showed me her tool for weeding. … Continue reading What a day →
• Practising (1/12/2019) - Saturday, January 12, 2019 I feel like I’m practising today. My Thursday sewing group are having our own little retreat next weekend. Gail is a member of the Guild but won’t go to the overnight retreats and Jessie isn’t a Guild member. Both said they’d like to do a retreat so there was no way … Continue reading Practising →
• Begging (1/11/2019) - Friday, January 11, 2019 I had a busy day yesterday. For most of the morning I was out delivering letters on behalf of the Guild. We are asking some of the local businesses for donations for our door prize table. I’ve never had to do this before but I had a good start when Dave … Continue reading Begging →
• Walking and hiking (1/9/2019) - Wednesday, January 9, 2019 I made arrangements with a quilting friend to start walking in the New Year; today was the first one of those walks. I was a little concerned with all the snow yesterday but it was all gone by this morning. We agreed to meet at the Marine Inn at ten and … Continue reading Walking and hiking →
• An at-home day (1/8/2019) - Tuesday, January 8, 2019 I was looking forward to getting to the bee today but when I heard the weather (snow in the morning, turning to sleet, and then turning back to snow) I turned the radio off and went back to bed. There are so many miserable days that I have to go out … Continue reading An at-home day →
• Snowflakes (1/7/2019) - Monday, January 7, 2019 Quilting on my snowflakes went very well today. I don’t know why I fight with my machine; I know it likes the same thread in the bobbin and the top but I seem to continually try to make it work with different weights between the two. Usually it is because the … Continue reading Snowflakes →
• Energy (1/6/2019) - Sunday, January 6, 2019 I knew for certain yesterday afternoon that I didn’t have the energy to take another stitch on my quilting project. I watched a couple of movies during the evening and was up later than usual – a new, but relaxing, bit of crocheting always makes me want to keep on going. … Continue reading Energy →
• Busy, but not done yet (1/5/2019) - Saturday, January 5, 2019 I’ve been quilting most of the day and, although I’m making progress, there is still a lot left to do. Before getting too far into it this morning though I had to go up to the fabric shop to get some matching thread. I like my thread to be as close … Continue reading Busy, but not done yet →
• I finally started (1/4/2019) - Friday, January 4, 2019 I think all my mind needed was a clean sewing room because as soon as I finished the vacuuming I was ready to sew. I stitched up a few items that Taylor had sent home with me, and I had time this morning before my ten o’clock meeting to get her … Continue reading I finally started →
• It was time (1/3/2019) - Thursday, January 3, 2017 I had a plan for today but, as often happens, things don’t go as planned. It was to be a sewing afternoon but I thought I would start on some quilting this morning. There were a few things from last night’s meeting that had to be done first thing and by … Continue reading It was time →
• It doesn’t take long (1/2/2019) - Wednesday, January 2, 2019 We came back from Texada yesterday so I could get an early start on my reports for my two meetings this week. I’m so glad we did that as I’ve been at it all day and I’m still not finished. On top of those reports, I was frantic to get started … Continue reading It doesn’t take long →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2019) - January 1, 2019 My resolutions for the year. Photos I am really going to try to sort through my digital photos and maybe even make a few photo books. Music We have three House Concerts (in Powell River and on Texada) scheduled for the Spring, along with three concert events in both places. Will we … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• My yearly report (12/31/2018) - Monday, December 31, 2018 I made some bold resolutions last year concerning what I’d get done in 2018. I managed to move ahead on a few things, but, sadly, I don’t think much has come off the list. What can I say, my life is a work in progress! Photos It really is time to … Continue reading My yearly report →
• Merry Christmas (12/24/2018) - Merry Christmas from our house to yours. This centrepiece was one of Pat’s Mum’s. We haven’t had it out in a long time and when I was sorting it went into the “give-away” pile. But on closer inspection it was much prettier than I remembered so it will have a permanent home here.
• I’m done! (12/22/2018) - Saturday, December 22, 2018 No, I didn’t get everything done but I’ve had to admit it just isn’t all going to fit into the time I have left. My e-cards went out and I have both the templates and fabric cut for my hand project; the gingersnaps were always just a dream (like sugarplums dancing … Continue reading I’m done! →
• What’s left? (12/21/2018) - Friday, December 21, 2018 I had two Hall-related meetings yesterday morning, my sewing in the afternoon and a Guild party in the evening. It’s no wonder I didn’t have time to write my journal. I hit the ground running this morning as I still have a long list of things to do before we leave … Continue reading What’s left? →
• A dark day (12/19/2018) - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 We were warned yesterday that our power would be off between 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM; they needed to fix something that was damaged in one of the many previous storms we’ve had in the last week and before the next one hits tomorrow. They needed to use a helicopter for … Continue reading A dark day →
• Back at the bee (12/18/2018) - Tuesday, December 18, 2018 I finally made it back to the Guild sewing bee today, but not before stopping at the Post Office to mail a package and the library to get those books returned. I was working on hand stitching today so it was a lighter load to carry in. I say “carry in” … Continue reading Back at the bee →
• A busy day (12/17/2018) - Monday, December 17, 2018 I’ve had a busy but productive day. I spent most of the morning getting Pat’s accounting off to the accountant for his GST report. I had three months’ worth of accounting to get done because, until it is time for the December report, they never give back my files from his … Continue reading A busy day →
• More like a “normal” day (12/16/2018) - Sunday, December 16, 2018 This was a good day. We went out for breakfast before grocery shopping; we needed stuff for home, stuff for Texada and stuff for our Christmas dinner. We’ll need to go again before Christmas but we’ve picked up most of what we’ll need. At least I think we did. Pat knew … Continue reading More like a “normal” day →
• It’s been awhile (12/15/2018) - Saturday, December 15, 2018 My first “away” trip was to Texada for a long weekend. It was a busy one, but even when I’m busy over there I come home relaxed. Friday night we went out for dinner, Saturday I was at a quilter’s Open House (for her birthday), Saturday night Pat was playing at … Continue reading It’s been awhile →
• Finished (12/6/2018) - Thursday, December 6, 2018 I put the last Christmas package in the mail today. When I left the post office I told the clerk that it wasn’t personal but I hoped I wouldn’t see her again until the New Year. But as I said that I realized that Kathryn has a birthday early in January … Continue reading Finished →
• Making progress (12/5/2018) - Wednesday, December 5, 2018 I’m getting some finishes done today – and it’s about time. I’m pretty sure I’ve finished my shopping and all but my last two envelopes are in the mail. I delivered my Reverse Advent Calendar bag of groceries to the Food Bank today. The list came to me from a blog … Continue reading Making progress →
• Slow, so slow (12/4/2018) - Tuesday, December 3, 2018 My Tuesday sewing group are going to think I’ve abandoned them. For the second week in a row I decided I could accomplish more at home than at the bee. I don’t have any sewing projects that are priorities just now and, had I gone, I’d be taking time out for … Continue reading Slow, so slow →
• My day (12/3/2018) - Monday, December 3, 2018 I didn’t bother posting last night because all I did all day was wrap parcels and boxes, plan for the extra things I needed to finish off my list, drag out some Christmas decorations and then do some ornament stitching. I can’t believe how quickly the day passes. Today has been … Continue reading My day →
• Checking it twice (12/1/2018) - Saturday, December 1, 2018 I had plans for the morning but got caught in the deep dark hole that is my work with Cranberry Hall. I had a deposit to get ready and I needed to get the minutes of the last meeting out. As I was preparing the minutes there were a couple of … Continue reading Checking it twice →
• A day out and two days behind (11/30/2018) - Friday, November 30, 2018 For the last week my days have been somewhat mixed up. Our House Concert was to have been Saturday and for the last month I had been preparing for a Saturday arrival and show. When our guests arrived a day early it was a little confusing (for my mind at least). … Continue reading A day out and two days behind →
• I’m getting there (11/27/2018) - Tuesday, November 27, 2018 It was a stormy day yesterday; the ferry from Texada was running but by 7 AM both the morning and noon ferries from and to Comox had been canceled. That meant Silk Road weren’t able to get across to the Island until the 4:30 ferry; they were a half-hour late starting … Continue reading I’m getting there →
• Where have I been? What have I been doing? (11/25/2018) - Sunday, November 25, 2018 It wasn’t my intention to drop my posts, but sometimes that’s just the way my life goes. Friday and Saturday were Community Quilt days with the Guild. It wasn’t the best timing for me but I feel it is an important aspect of the Guild and I wanted to participate. I’m … Continue reading Where have I been? What have I been doing? →
• We have our phone back (11/22/2018) - Thursday, November 22, 2018 Pat came back from Texada this afternoon and spent about an hour on his cell phone with Telus. He was able to get them out this afternoon so our service was restored. I think one or the other of us have been on the phone constantly since then. Why did we … Continue reading We have our phone back →
• The sound of silence (11/21/2018) - Wednesday, November 21, 2018 Apparently our phone is out. It didn’t ring last night but that isn’t unusual except that Pat and I usually talk in the evening when he is on Texada. We had chatted electronically during the day so I didn’t think much about it. When I went to bed last night I … Continue reading The sound of silence →
• It was a good day (11/20/2018) - Tuesday, November 20, 2018 I was up early this morning (before six) but I got quite a bit done before it was time to head out to the bee. It didn’t go unnoticed by the group that I was sewing with my machine today; for the past several weeks (or maybe months) I’ve been hand … Continue reading It was a good day →
• Quite a productive day (11/19/2018) - Monday, November 19, 2018 I had a lovely, quiet weekend (and more) at the studio. I planned to work on some Christmas ornaments but when I went to my cupboard I couldn’t find them. Generally I keep my cross stitch and needlepoint at the studio and sewing, knitting and crochet at home in Powell River. … Continue reading Quite a productive day →
• Not exactly as planned (11/15/2018) - Thursday, November 15, 2018 Pat had an appointment this morning so we agreed he’d do a walk-on from Texada and we would both do a walk-on back on the noon ferry. He was up early so caught an early ferry and I met him for breakfast. Then we went our separate ways and planned to … Continue reading Not exactly as planned →
• It’s too early (11/12/2018) - Monday, November 12, 2018 I had a wonderful weekend at the retreat. It was nice to get to know my house guest a little better – we had a good time and never ran out of conversation. We slept at the studio but other than that we were hardly there. I bought a new memory … Continue reading It’s too early →
• I think I’m ready (11/8/2018) - Thursday, November 8, 2018 I spent all morning re-thinking and re-cutting fabric for my half-square triangles. I’m following a pattern now and it needed a lot more than I had originally planned on making. The quilt will end up smaller than the one in the book but it will be plenty big enough for a … Continue reading I think I’m ready →
• It feels like an day off (11/7/2018) - Wednesday, November 7, 2018 When I got up this morning there were no plans for the day – it felt like a day off. I worked on a Farmer’s Daughter block while I had my morning coffee. I came upstairs to check my mail and Facebook and decided today would be a good day to … Continue reading It feels like an day off →
• Changes (11/6/2018) - Tuesday, November 6, 2018 Before the time change I was often up at 5:30 in the morning, and I was usually in bed reading until 11 PM. With the time change my body is still on the same rhythm – I’m awake at 4:30 in the morning and falling asleep reading at 10 PM. I’m … Continue reading Changes →
• Finally – some sewing (11/5/2018) - Monday, November 5, 2018 I packaged up the fabric that I need for the retreat project so I’m all set. With all the projects packed it seemed like a good idea to start some quilting – it needed to be done, and if I was quilting I wouldn’t be tempted to pull another project. Things … Continue reading Finally – some sewing →
• What did you do with your extra hour? (11/4/2018) - Sunday, November 4, 2018 We set our clocks back an hour last night. I can’t say that I feel like I’ve gained an extra hour; I went to bed at my usual “old” time and read until my usual “new” time. I was awake about the same time based on the clock; I’m not liking … Continue reading What did you do with your extra hour? →
• Breathing a bit easier (11/3/2018) - Saturday, November 3, 2018 My backup took five hours last night but I have a full backup and it appears the software I use will do an incremental backup every hour. That is really more than I need but I don’t, at the moment, feel like installing and working out the kinks in another program. … Continue reading Breathing a bit easier →
• Where do the hours go? (11/2/2018) - Friday, November 2, 2018 I was at my computer yesterday morning by seven but I’d already done an hour of hand stitching by then. I was busy getting reports ready for my Guild meeting Thursday night and then off to sewing in the afternoon. It had been three weeks since I’d stitched with my Thursday … Continue reading Where do the hours go? →
• No treats or tricks (I hope) (10/31/2018) - Wednesday, October 31, 2018 For the last few years we have completely ignored Hallowe’en. The first couple of years in Powell River we had, maybe, five teenagers come to the door; I think the second year they only came back for the drinks I was handing out. We had a renter next door with a … Continue reading No treats or tricks (I hope) →
• Caught up (10/30/2018) - Tuesday, October 30, 2018 Caught up might be stretching the truth just a bit – in reality I don’t think I will ever be able to say (truthfully) that I am caught up. But I’ve been busy since I returned home and today, for the first day, I feel like I’m back on schedule. I … Continue reading Caught up →
• Catching Up – The Sewing (10/29/2018) - A week of uninterrupted sewing from morning to night – what could be better? Spending that week with Stacia and Deloise was priceless. We had so much fun that we’ll do it again next year after Deloise’s quilt show. Here is some of what I accomplished. This sewing machine cover was in answer to the … Continue reading Catching Up – The Sewing →
• Catching Up – The Visits (10/28/2018) - Although getting there was not half the fun, I did get to spend a night at the Fairmont Airport hotel in Vancouver. It was a pretty swanky room for a short stay but it was certainly convenient after having my flights to Calgary messed up with fog. Although the time in Calgary was short, it … Continue reading Catching Up – The Visits →
• I really should be packing (10/10/2018) - Wednesday, October 10, 2018 It is well known that I am a last-minute packer but this time I’m leaving it longer than I should. I’ve had a stack of projects sitting out for quite awhile, just waiting to go into the suitcase. In fact, some of them made it into the suitcase yesterday. But what … Continue reading I really should be packing →
• What to do with all my photos (10/9/2018) - Tuesday, October 9, 2018 I still haven’t resolved my computer issue – my backups to my external drive aren’t working but one of the partitions on it contains some photos from several years ago. There was no way I could get them from the external drive back onto my computer but they were old and … Continue reading What to do with all my photos →
• Happy Thanksgiving (10/8/2018) - Monday, October 8, 2018 On Saturday morning I loaded up my carry-on bag with some hand stitching and some dinner trimmings – yams, sweet potatoes, squash, cranberry sauce, etc. – and headed to Texada on the morning ferry. Once I was unpacked I settled in for some stitching. It was a lovely day so after … Continue reading Happy Thanksgiving →
• I just need a week (10/5/2018) - Friday, October 5, 2018 I have so many things on my to-do list I need a week to accomplish it all. I don’t mean a week like most of my weeks are. I need a week where I can catch up on everything, but not get behind on anything. I just need a week where … Continue reading I just need a week →
• No complaints about tonight’s meeting (10/4/2018) - Thursday, October 4, 2018 I lost track of time this morning and was rushed for both my sewing date and my Guild meeting tonight. I had almost finished sorting through a magazine folder of quilty things yesterday so I decided to finish it off this morning while I had my coffee. Some of the things … Continue reading No complaints about tonight’s meeting →
• A lazy afternoon (10/3/2018) - Wednesday, October 3, 2018 It was good to be back at the bee yesterday; although I only missed one week it felt like much longer. I didn’t accomplish much, but it was fun to catch up with everyone. I was barely home from sewing before it was time for supper and then I rushed out … Continue reading A lazy afternoon →
• Who wants to go first? (10/1/2018) - Monday, October 1, 2018 We were happy with the concert on Texada on Saturday. There were over 20 people in attendance; the cafe gave the performer both lunch and supper and the sleeping arrangements worked fine. We put the air mattress on top of the couch mattress; our guest said it was comfortable and he’d … Continue reading Who wants to go first? →
• One More Time (9/28/2018) - Saturday, September 28, 2018 It’s been a busy few days – that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it! Wednesday was a flurry of activity as I did my House Concert cleaning in 15 minute intervals as Pat had breaks in his class schedule. There was some running around to do and a showing at … Continue reading One More Time →
• More Grapes (9/25/2018) - Tuesday, September 25, 2018 We were up late last night – a good show – and I managed to sleep until almost seven this morning. I hadn’t packed up my stitching for the bee but I have my Farmer’s Daughter hand stitching always ready to go so I wasn’t worried. After my coffee I decided … Continue reading More Grapes →
• It’s like my birthday all over again! (9/24/2018) - Monday, September 24, 2018 I was up at 5:30 this morning (Pat is teaching again this week) and I pretty much had my e-mail and Cranberry Hall work done before seven. I was meeting someone at the Hall at ten but until it was time to leave I finished my Splendid Sampler block from yesterday … Continue reading It’s like my birthday all over again! →
• Finally, some sun (9/23/2018) - Sunday, September 23, 2018 We spent the end of the week and the weekend on Texada where it did nothing much but rain the entire time. I hoped that on my birthday we could do some exploring through the back roads on the island but with a weather advisory we thought it best to stay … Continue reading Finally, some sun →
• Away (9/19/2018) - Wednesday, September 19, 2018 It was another early morning but I put it to good use doing a bit of computer work and catching up on some e-mail and Cranberry Hall work. While I waited for Pat to take a break from his teaching I did some cutting for a couple of new projects that … Continue reading Away →
• The best kind of sewing day (9/18/2018) - Tuesday, September 18, 2018 Pat is teaching this week and has a very early start – 5:30 AM. I didn’t hear him get up and shower prior to then, but I heard him talking to his students at 5:30 and there was no going back to sleep. I had lots of time to pack up … Continue reading The best kind of sewing day →
• I’m a fair-weather walker (9/16/2018) - Sunday, September 16, 2018 I went up to the Fall Fair yesterday afternoon; next time I’ll have to take a bit more money. I checked that I had my $5 admission and I certainly didn’t expect to be spending any money. But the firemen had a Fill the Boot fundraiser for MS so in went … Continue reading I’m a fair-weather walker →
• A good day for a quilt (9/15/2018) - Saturday, September 15, 2018 Over the last few days the house has been quite chilly but I’ve resisted the urge to turn on the furnace. Last evening while I stitched I had to wear my outside sweater; it was cool for sleeping though and I like that. The house temperature has been hovering between 65º … Continue reading A good day for a quilt →
• No smiling (9/14/2018) - Friday, September 14, 2018 I’m doing some quilting today and it is going well. I’ve had a Community Quilt waiting to be quilted since June when we did our weekend workshop. There was a fire in town this week and the family lost everything; the head of our committee put out a call for quilts … Continue reading No smiling →
• A lazy afternoon (9/12/2018) - Wednesday, September 12, 2018 After a busy morning I’m feeling lazy this afternoon. I had the furnace people here just after eight for our yearly maintenance check. While the technician was doing his thing I washed, peeled, sliced and froze four bags of apples off our tree. I think this was probably our best year … Continue reading A lazy afternoon →
• Harvesting (9/10/2018) - Monday, September 10, 2018 I didn’t get to hand stitching the binding on my cards last night so, over a couple of cups of coffee, I finished them this morning. Then I went out to do a few errands and by the time I was home it was almost noon. I made a trip to … Continue reading Harvesting →
• It could have been a pyjama day (9/9/2018) - Sunday, September 9, 2018 When I got up this morning I thought I might go out and run some errands but that isn’t the way the day unfolded. It was stormy most of the day – rain and wind. Although there is a small stream of sunshine at the moment I can see the next … Continue reading It could have been a pyjama day →
• Giving up the dream (9/8/2018) - Saturday, September 8, 2018 At many times in my life I’ve played instruments; when I was younger I was able to keep up with the practicing. Mum, Miss Burkowski, and Mrs. Raycroft kept me on track with piano and it was just plain fun playing and performing with Roberta and Jackie on my guitar. As … Continue reading Giving up the dream →
• We need it (9/7/2018) - Friday, September 7, 2018 After a really warm day yesterday it started to rain overnight and it really hasn’t stopped much all day – the sun certainly hasn’t been out and I’m trying not to turn on the furnace. The forecast says we have several more days of rain but I’m not complaining as we … Continue reading We need it →
• Whew! (9/5/2018) - Wednesday, September 5, 2018 I spent all morning at my desk getting ready for the three meetings I have between now and Friday. The work for the meetings on Thursday could have waited I guess but since I was digging through papers I kept at it until it was all done. After sitting so long … Continue reading Whew! →
• Not much sewing done (9/4/2018) - Tuesday, September 4, 2018 I didn’t get much sewing done at the bee today. I loaded three more Farmer’s Daughter packages into my bag (as per my get-three-a-week-done plan) even though I still had two blocks to finish from last week’s batch. But I thought I should start my day going through the books and … Continue reading Not much sewing done →
• A day late (9/3/2018) - Monday, September 3, 2018 We had a busy weekend and I’m going to need some extra sleep before launching into the fall schedule that begins tomorrow. The concert on Friday night was very popular; we were at capacity with the crowd that came out. The Hall was co-sponsoring the event with the music festival, which … Continue reading A day late →
• A quiet day (8/31/2018) - Friday, August 31, 2018 Today has seemed so much like Saturday. I wonder if it is because my “things” tend to finish up on a Thursday so Friday feels like a weekend which, for many years, started on Saturday. At any rate I’m not doing much work today. This morning I boiled the eggs and … Continue reading A quiet day →
• There’s always just one more thing (8/29/2018) - Wednesday, August 29, 2018 I’ve been promising myself since the beginning of summer that I was going to get at some quilting, and by that I mean actual quilting, not just piecing. Well, September is almost here and nothing has been quilted. There have been sampler blocks made, cards made and delivered, giant steps made … Continue reading There’s always just one more thing →
• Better today (8/28/2018) - Tuesday, August 28, 2018 My back was sore first thing this morning but I wasn’t about to give up my stitching day on account of a little pain – cleaning and yard work maybe, but not stitching. I kept moving through the day, never sitting for more than a half-hour at a time and it … Continue reading Better today →
• Putting my feet up (8/27/2018) - Monday, August 27, 2018 In my mind today was going to be a day for cleaning house. I started by cleaning out the fridge and washing down the shelves and drawers. Somewhere between that and juicing a few over-ripe veggies I jarred my back. After starting the dishwasher I thought perhaps a walk would help … Continue reading Putting my feet up →
• Apparently you can do it all … (8/26/2018) - Sunday, August 26, 2018 … at least I was able to do it all last night. I finished stitching my block together with just enough time to brush my teeth, brush my hair, and make it out to Cranberry Hall for the first Cranberry Hall Presents show of the season. With one exception all the … Continue reading Apparently you can do it all … →
• Sweet dreams (8/25/2018) - Saturday, August 25, 2018 We woke up to rain this morning – it’s been a long time. I could almost see the grass reaching up to get every last drop. Although it has been cloudy for most of the day I don’t think we got any great amount; as the farmer’s would say we need … Continue reading Sweet dreams →
• All clear (8/24/2018) - Friday, August 24, 2018 Yesterday we woke up to smoke-free sunshine – the first time in a long time that we were able to see the mountains on Vancouver Island. The temperature is cool and it feels like fall though. I understand that much of our smoke has blown to the east and I guess … Continue reading All clear →
• Back in the yard (8/22/2018) - Wednesday, August 22, 2018 Before Pat’s surgery he did some trimming and pruning on the bushes in the yard – I’m not to be trusted with mechanical snippers! I delayed picking up the piles but the weather forecast says we might get rain tomorrow so I decided I’d better get them bundled up before they … Continue reading Back in the yard →
• Slow going (8/21/2018) - Tuesday, August 21, 2018 Remember my plan to try and get three Farmer’s Daughter blocks done in a week? I don’t think that is realistic. At the bee today, by the time lunch rolled around, I only had part of one block done – maybe half. After lunch I didn’t even get that far on a … Continue reading Slow going →
• Sunday left-overs (8/20/2018) - Monday, August 20, 2018 If Sunday is my day to do cards then I guess I was working on left-overs today. I did a bit of desk work this morning (I might have made a few purchases) and then I finished up the card I started yesterday. I went out to the post office after … Continue reading Sunday left-overs →
• Splendid and Smokin’ (8/19/2018) - Sunday, August 19, 2018 The smoke rolled in again last night and even with the doors and windows shut it smells like smoke in the house. I had a very slow start to the day because I couldn’t get my nose to stop running; I don’t know if the smoke was making my allergies worse … Continue reading Splendid and Smokin’ →
• I lost my momentum (8/18/2018) - Saturday, August 18, 2018 We were disappointed in the Street Party last night – a lot fewer vendors and musicians, no square dancers and fewer friends than we normally run into. We stopped for a “real” meal at one of the restaurants on Marine before heading out to the street. We got our blackberry shortcake … Continue reading I lost my momentum →
• Doing a happy dance (8/17/2018) - Friday, August 17, 2018 Although I didn’t get to my 4-Seasons Tree (yet) I got one more block done on my Splendid Sampler. The block was released last week and, since I don’t usually do the Splendid Sampler block until Sunday, I’m considering myself up-to-date. Hopefully I will have time on Sunday to get this … Continue reading Doing a happy dance →
• Back on track (8/16/2018) - Thursday, August 16, 2018 I think I made up for my low-energy day yesterday. I had lots of energy today and I got a lot done. But let me go back to last night. I dug out the bin of fabric I had set aside for my four-seasons tree; they are all batiks and, although … Continue reading Back on track →
• A low energy day (8/15/2018) - Wednesday, August 15, 2018 We were up and out early as Pat had his second eye surgery today. I had to have some routine lab work done so decided last night to skip my bedtime snack (which I don’t usually have) and breakfast and get that done while he was in the OR. I was … Continue reading A low energy day →
• Three down, two to go (8/14/2018) - Tuesday, August 14, 2018 I finished three more blocks today for my Farmer’s Wife Sampler. There are still two blocks left but I looked ahead in my book and I’ll soon have to decide about layout, sashing and backing. Most of the layouts shown have the blocks set on point and, as I learned with … Continue reading Three down, two to go →
• Final Five (8/13/2018) - Monday, August 13, 2018 We had another good weekend on Texada. I caught the last ferry over on Thursday night; I enjoyed travelling as it got dark, but it wasn’t so dark that I couldn’t see the two humpbacks beside us. The last two trips over I’ve seen whales but today it is so smoky … Continue reading Final Five →
• I was on a mission (8/8/2018) - Wednesday, August 8, 2018 There were a few things I wanted to get done today and as I sit on the deck watching the sun go down I can say I did most of them. Although the grass in the lawn didn’t need a trimming, the weeds growing there certainly did; the same was true … Continue reading I was on a mission →
• Not an easy day at sewing (8/7/2018) - Tuesday, August 7, 2018 I was back at the bee today but my fears may have been confirmed – I’ve forgotten how to sew. I had a few more Farmer’s Daughter blocks packaged up, all ready to be paper-pieced. I started with one that I knew would be difficult but I’d been carrying it around … Continue reading Not an easy day at sewing →
• Back in town (8/6/2018) - Monday, August 6, 2018 I’m back in Powell River for a few days. I had some prep work that needed to be done for the Cranberry Hall Board meeting on Thursday. I could have stayed an extra day but coming back today means I can go to the sewing bee tomorrow – I haven’t been … Continue reading Back in town →
• Checking In (8/3/2018) - Friday, August 3, 2018 I’m thoroughly enjoying my time on Texada. It feels like being on holiday and at the same time it feels like staying home with no interruptions. The weather has been great – a few really hot days, a couple of cool days but no rain, and a couple of days that … Continue reading Checking In →
• Catching up (7/30/2018) - Monday, July 30, 2018 It took awhile but I think I’ve returned to “normal” after our flurry of company. It was wonderful to have Elizabeth and Kathryn here and Higgins Inn is a great spot to stay at. Next time I hope we can all stay out there; it is just a short walk to … Continue reading Catching up →
• Back to the Betsy Bag (7/19/2018) - Thursday, July 19, 2018 It was a little cooler today with a good breeze so I got a load of laundry out on the line first thing. I was able to bring it in and put a second load out before I left for sewing. Pat got the all-clear from the doctor today so I … Continue reading Back to the Betsy Bag →
• Does anyone actually work here? (7/18/2018) - Wednesday, July 18, 2018 I’ve been working at it for a few days, but I finally finished cleaning up my sewing areas. I’ve hidden away a few things (Emma doesn’t like dolls in her room) but I’m going to be VERY selective about putting things back in that second room. Every time I clean I … Continue reading Does anyone actually work here? →
• It’s too hot (7/17/2018) - Tuesday, July 17, 2018 It was too hot to even consider doing any baking last night so I cheated and bought a Safeway cake for the bee today. It was noted though so I’m probably going to have to volunteer for a second time this year but I’ll wait for a cooler month. I finished … Continue reading It’s too hot →
• It’s time for some fun (7/16/2018) - Monday, July 16, 2018 I had a great weekend at our mini-retreat. Although it was in celebration of a 70th birthday I think it will become an annual event. Several of our older ladies (into their late 70s and early- to mid-80s) came out; because of the travel and accommodations they don’t come to our … Continue reading It’s time for some fun →
• Organized chaos! (7/12/2018) - Thursday, July 12, 2018 I cancelled my Thursday sewing because I knew Pat had a doctor’s appointment today and I wasn’t sure what time it would be. It was early this morning and I could have gone sewing but I had several things of my own that I wanted to get done so I stayed … Continue reading Organized chaos! →
• Another good day (7/11/2018) - Wednesday, July 11, 2018 My day is going well, in spite of the fact that I was up at 5:30 this morning. Pat needed to be at the hospital at 7:20 AM and last night we decided to leave at about 6:45 (giving us oodles of time). I was sound asleep when Pat woke me … Continue reading Another good day →
• A good day of sewing (7/10/2018) - Tuesday, July 10, 2018 It was my first real bee day in a couple of weeks and it was nice to catch up on all the news. I managed to get three of my Farmer’s Wife blocks finished, and one other about half done. I would have stayed to get that fourth one done but … Continue reading A good day of sewing →
• Is it finally fixed? (7/9/2018) - Monday, July 9, 2018 I was about to write a post yesterday and thought, “Why bother?”. My posts are being published on my website (not sure yet about the scheduled ones that I write and want posted on a specific date) but the e-mailed posts seem to be going out very sporadic. I’ve made another … Continue reading Is it finally fixed? →
• Nothing new here (7/7/2018) - Saturday, July 7, 2018 I skipped yesterday’s post because I didn’t have much to say. I had hardly slept the night before; awake until close to 5:00 AM and then I was up before nine. No idea why I wasn’t sleeping but by 3:00 AM I gave up, turned on my light, and finished my … Continue reading Nothing new here →
• Still working on it (7/5/2018) - Thursday, July 5, 2018 I spent all morning finishing off the minutes for the last Cranberry Hall Board meeting and getting a deposit ready for the afternoon. Pat suggested I should keep track of the hours I spend on Hall work but I think that would be too discouraging so I’ll keep doing what needs … Continue reading Still working on it →
• Home again (7/4/2018) - Wednesday, July 4, 2018 We came home on the noon ferry and it already feels like I’ve never been away. I didn’t even start unpacking before I was out cutting the boulevard; we took the lawn mower to Texada so as soon as it was off the truck I started mowing. After unpacking and putting … Continue reading Home again →
• It’s been awhile (6/29/2018) - Friday, June 29, 2018 I had a few things I had to do following our Board meeting last night but once they were done I felt like I was on holiday. We were ready to head over to Texada about the time the first ferry was leaving. We wanted to move some furniture over, as … Continue reading It’s been awhile →
• What now? (6/27/2018) - Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Here it is only the middle of the afternoon and all my “have-to’s” are done. What will I do now? First thing this morning I finished up a card and got it ready for the mail. I already had a deposit ready for Cran Hall but the bank wasn’t open yet … Continue reading What now? →
• Feeling better (6/26/2018) - Tuesday, June 26, 2018 I was off to the bee this morning but I didn’t last long. I had some hand stitching that I needed to do so I could get a parcel in the mail but once that was done I packed everything up and came home. I wasn’t feeling well and worried that … Continue reading Feeling better →
• Not such a Splendid Day (6/25/2018) - Monday, June 25, 2018 I’ve been having problems with the delivery of my posts to my subscribers. I spent some time this morning adjusting and, hopefully, fixing the issue. My test this morning worked and I hope that this post will go out at its normal time. I had a massage this morning; my neck … Continue reading Not such a Splendid Day →
• A Splendid Day (6/24/2018) - Sunday, June 24, 2018 Pat and I went out for breakfast this morning. It was cloudy and rain was predicted but, other than being cool, the day was fine. When we came home I started working on the first block of the Splendid Sampler 2 series. There were a lot of things I should have … Continue reading A Splendid Day →
• The sinking of the YOGN-82 (6/23/2018) - Saturday, June 23, 2018 I enjoyed our trip to Parksville yesterday; many of the vendors at the show had been at Quilt Canada so I didn’t shop much. There were a couple of shops from Courtenay present and I made purchases as each of them. I got more fabric (which I needed) for this English … Continue reading The sinking of the YOGN-82 →
• It’s been a busy day (6/21/2018) - Thursday, June 21, 2018 I’ve had a busy day. I spent the morning picking weeds; there was a nice breeze so it felt quite cool all the time I was out. In fact I had to put a rock in the bottom of my weed pail to keep it weighted to the ground (before it … Continue reading It’s been a busy day →
• Great day for a cruise (6/20/2018) - Wednesday, June 20, 2018 There were a few drops of rain this morning and we briefly wondered if jackets were something we should think about before boarding the ferry. Pat checked the forecast and they hadn’t even predicted the small shower we did get so we left the house ready for the sun. And sun … Continue reading Great day for a cruise →
• Another hot one (6/19/2018) - Tuesday, June 19, 2018 I don’t think it was quite as hot today as yesterday – at least today we had a bit of a breeze. I spent the evening out on the back deck cross stitching; it wasn’t exactly cool but at least it was out of the sun. I was happy to be stitching … Continue reading Another hot one →
• Great weekend and a good day today (6/18/2018) - Monday, June 18, 2018 Although it was a quick trip, we had a great weekend with Christy and crew. We were there to watch the year-end performances of gymnastics (Taylor) and Parkour (Dylan). The kids had to be at the gym by 11 AM, the show didn’t start until 1:30 PM and lasted for two … Continue reading Great weekend and a good day today →
• No distractions (6/14/2018) - Thursday, June 14, 2018 I really wanted to do the Splendid Sampler 2 block that was released today; it was a pretty simple block and it wouldn’t have taken too much time. My deal with myself was I’d get a card finished and then I’d do the new block (x2 so I’d have a card … Continue reading No distractions →
• Another day … another block (6/13/2018) - Wednesday, June 13, 2018 I feel like I’m back on track this week. Although I should have enjoyed a full day at home I had a few errands to run; along with that and some computer work it was noon before I got started sewing. I finished another Farmer’s Wife Sampler block. This one was … Continue reading Another day … another block →
• A productive bee day (6/12/2018) - Tuesday, June 12, 2018 I often don’t get much done at the bee but today, maybe because it has been so long, I was whipping through the projects. I quilted the three cards I made yesterday and I’ll get the bindings hand-stitched tonight. This month my challenge project is the Farmer’s Wife Sampler. When I … Continue reading A productive bee day →
• A little of everything today (6/11/2018) - Monday, June 11, 2018 I was awake early and up and about before six, which meant I was able to be upstairs sewing by eight. There was a lot going on around here today. I was expecting our Cranberry Hall president to stop in to collect some info she needed and to drop off some … Continue reading A little of everything today →
• Finally (6/10/2018) - Sunday, June 10, 2018 Today was the day; today was MY day. I slept in later than usual but I was still up in my sewing room before ten. I ignored my computer and all the Action Items I had flagged and got straight to stitching. Well maybe not straight to … I had to … Continue reading Finally →
• One Final Day (6/9/2018) - Saturday, June 9, 2018 Pat and I went out for breakfast this morning before doing some grocery shopping; Pat packed up and caught the noon ferry back to Texada. I spent the first part of my day working on Pat’s accounting. There are still a few gaps but it will be ready for the accountant … Continue reading One Final Day →
• It would have been a good day (6/8/2018) - Friday, June 8, 2018 It has been a stormy day – wind and heavy rain at times. We haven’t had a day like this since winter. It would have been a good day to: Curl up with a book Veg out with TV and my crocheting Focus on some sewing Almost anything but what I … Continue reading It would have been a good day →
• Finally, a few stitches (6/7/2018) - Thursday, June 7, 2018 I spent a bit of time with my cross stitch this morning – I like to do a bit each day with my coffee (and it keeps me away from games on my iPad). Sadly the last strand I worked with all had to be taken out as I misread the … Continue reading Finally, a few stitches →
• Another desk day (6/6/2018) - Wednesday, June 6, 2018 I’ve spent another full day at my desk. I met a renter at the Hall this morning at nine but I was only home for about an hour before heading out the door for another appointment at 10:30. I had a few errands to take care of and it was noon … Continue reading Another desk day →
• What fun! (6/5/2018) - Tuesday, June 5, 2018 I arrived home yesterday afternoon and I’ve been “sorting myself out” since then. I unpacked last night but that was the easy part – I had laundry to do and it took more than a few trips to get all my new purchases upstairs. I’ve spent all day today catching up … Continue reading What fun! →
• One more project (5/23/2018) - Wednesday, May 23, 2018 I didn’t intend to do any weeding yesterday but I couldn’t stop myself from pulling a few from the pots on the deck. Once that was done I did some watering – both inside and out. I’m very bad with houseplants but the ones we have are very obvious about needing … Continue reading One more project →
• Last of the sewing is done (5/21/2018) - Monday, May 21, 2018 Another morning spent outside and I’ve finally made it around the whole yard once this year. Of course the first areas need to be done again and I’ll be going in circles for the rest of the summer. It is nice to look outside and see that I’ve made a difference … Continue reading Last of the sewing is done →
• Boring – in a new way (5/20/2018) - Sunday, May 20, 2018 I usually feel like my journal post are boring – I sew and I sew and I sew. This week I’m boring in a brand new way – I work in the yard, I sew, and I collapse in the evening and do nothing! That isn’t entirely true as I’ve managed … Continue reading Boring – in a new way →
• If the blackberries don’t get you the roses will (5/19/2018) - Saturday, May 19, 2018 It was cloudy and a bit cooler this morning which was a good thing; I was out the door with my long pants and long-sleeved shirt by 8:30. I was tackling the roses at the back of the house. After two hours of pulling bindweed and clipping back blackberry canes I … Continue reading If the blackberries don’t get you the roses will →
• Door prize (5/18/2018) - Friday, May 18, 2018 I’ve had a couple of busy sewing days. I worked hard yesterday morning to get a card ready for the mail – quilting done and hand sewing as well. After dropping the card into the mail after lunch I headed out for my afternoon sewing session. Progress on the bag is … Continue reading Door prize →
• My homework is done (5/16/2018) - Wednesday, May 16, 2018 At every Guild business meeting this year we’ve been bringing home a small bag of cut-up scraps. We are to make a 12.5″ block from the fabric in the bag and, at the end of the Guild season, we’ll put the blocks together for Community Quilts. I’ve kept up quite well … Continue reading My homework is done →
• I’m back (5/15/2018) - Tuesday, May 15, 2018 I had a wonderful weekend at the studio. I skipped stitching on Thursday afternoon and headed to The Rock on the mid-morning ferry. Even though it was a bit breezy I sat outside during the ferry trip. I decided that if I was suffering from allergies the sea air would do … Continue reading I’m back →
• A desk day (5/9/2018) - Wednesday, May 9, 2018 I hadn’t planned on spending the day at my desk but that seems to be how it has worked out. I came upstairs last night and sorted out a pattern for one of the Guild blocks I need to make; I wanted to be able to get right at the stitching … Continue reading A desk day →
• It had better rain (5/8/2018) - Tuesday, May 8, 2018 I finished the diagonal lines on my chenille quilt today at the bee. In fact I finished them before lunch. Many of the ladies were anxious to see what happened next but I was reluctant to do anything with a crowd watching. When they threatened getting a chant of “Cut the … Continue reading It had better rain →
• Back to work (5/7/2018) - Monday, May 7, 2018 I had a lovely time on the weekend; the back door wasn’t even unlocked on either Saturday or Sunday. I managed to get four cards done as well as two Splendid Sampler blocks. There are lots more blocks in the line-up but the ones that needed to go out in the … Continue reading Back to work →
• Block Party (5/4/2018) - Friday, May 4, 2018 I finished up a project this morning so took a look at some of the things that need to be finished sooner rather than later. That turned out to be a lot of blocks – several cards, some blocks for the Guild, some Splendid blocks and some 1880 sampler blocks. Pat took … Continue reading Block Party →
• I don’t like making bags (5/3/2018) - Thursday, May 3, 2018 I’ve made several bags and with every one I say never again. I don’t have uses for them and I don’t like putting in zippers. And unless they have a zipper they aren’t secure enough for the shifting around I do on a regular basis. So when my Thursday sewing mates … Continue reading I don’t like making bags →
• A schedule is only a guideline (5/2/2018) - Wednesday, May 2, 2018 When someone at quilting realized she had made a mistake on her project her announcement was “Patterns are only meant as guidelines”. The same could be said for the schedules I plan for getting things done. Wednesday morning should have been a yard day but I just wasn’t in the mood … Continue reading A schedule is only a guideline →
• It’s a Splendid Day (5/1/2018) - May 1, 2018 Turning over the calendar is a lot of fun for me. I get to switch months on the family calendar Christy gave me for Christmas – her focus this month is her with her children. But the first of the month also means I find out what my UFO Challenge will be. … Continue reading It’s a Splendid Day →
• Whew! (4/30/2018) - Monday, April 30, 2018 I was at the Hall by 10:30 on Sunday morning and we managed to have a few minutes to spare before people started to arrive for the Member Appreciation at one. Our guests had time to renew their memberships and have a bite to eat and before they knew it we … Continue reading Whew! →
• Doodling with my machine (4/28/2018) - Saturday, April 28, 2018 Today’s free-motion class was a lot of fun. I’m not sure that I learned any new techniques because I already knew that it involved practice practice practice! The first question from the instructor was “Do you doodle?” I don’t, but she went on to explain that free-motion quilting is really all … Continue reading Doodling with my machine →
• Running behind (4/27/2018) - Friday, April 27, 2018 I started the morning with the baking I need to do for the Hall’s AGM on Sunday. At the Retreat weekend someone brought some brown sugar fudge; Deloise gave me a microwave version of Aunt Ethel’s Fudge so I decided I’d make a pan of that. It isn’t exactly a square … Continue reading Running behind →
• Like a Crazy Woman (4/25/2018) - Wednesday, April 25, 2018 I had a few things to do today so I got started right after breakfast; my back was already sore so I decided not to go out and work in the yard. I made my vegetable drink for breakfast and then remembered I needed to wash the flannel for my quilt … Continue reading Like a Crazy Woman →
• Retreat Weekend (4/24/2018) - Tuesday, April 24, 2018 I had one main project I intended to work on at the Retreat – my Bloom quilt. At the end of the weekend all I had managed was one block! But I accomplished a lot of other things. I caught up on my 1880 Sampler blocks and made a couple of … Continue reading Retreat Weekend →
• My bags aren’t packed (4/20/2018) - Friday, April 20, 2018 My bags aren’t packed and I’m not ready to go! I’m heading out to the Retreat first thing tomorrow morning and I’ll be gone until Monday afternoon. I’ve got several projects packed up although I’m not expecting to get at them all; I don’t want to be bored or run out … Continue reading My bags aren’t packed →
• Drinking our vegetables (4/18/2018) - Wednesday, April 18, 2018 When Pat was checking out the new-to-us bed and frame he also spotted a juicer that was for sale. I’ve always wanted a juicer and was happy that it came home with him. Yesterday, after sewing, Pat juiced up some melons, pineapples and a lemon that were left from his birthday … Continue reading Drinking our vegetables →
• I didn’t do too badly (4/17/2018) - Tuesday, April 17, 2018 I finished most of the things on the list I made yesterday afternoon. Two cards and a parcel went into the mail before I headed out to the bee. The minutes are almost ready for distribution, the cheques have been signed and the deposit is safely in the bank. The back … Continue reading I didn’t do too badly →
• Where do I start? (4/16/2018) - Monday, April 16, 2018 After my sewing session on Thursday I did a quick swap (sewing stuff out of the car, Texada stuff into the car) and headed out on the 6 PM ferry. I like being able to take that later ferry and still be at the studio before dark. In spite of (or … Continue reading Where do I start? →
• What a good day (4/11/2018) - Wednesday, April 11, 2018 I made the first of three bundt cakes last night – I can’t even remember how many of these I’ve made since last summer. Several for our Cranberry Day celebration and several more for various Cranberry Hall Presents events. I still have one package of cranberries left so I’ll make another … Continue reading What a good day →
• A quick check in (4/10/2018) - Tuesday, April 10, 2018 I had a good day at the bee today but I didn’t accomplish too much. I finished off my card, except for the hand stitching, and that was my highest priority. I also had time to stitch around another snowflake, but my bobbin ran out just before I finished the second … Continue reading A quick check in →
• Phew – that’s done (4/9/2018) - Monday, April 9, 2018 I had a bit of secret printing to do this morning so, as my excuse for going out, I gathered up all my cans and bottles for the bottle depot. We had quite a collection of items for the recycle depot so we loaded those into the car as well. Pat … Continue reading Phew – that’s done →
• Getting there (4/8/2018) - Sunday, April 8, 2018 I spent the morning catching up on my Friday block for the 1880 Sampler. As I’ve been doing, I also made an extra one to use as a card top. I’m so glad Stacia put this idea in my head. I’ve already got a good start on my May cards. I … Continue reading Getting there →
• Lesser of two evils (4/6/2018) - Friday, April 6, 2018 In my new “yard” schedule I should have been doing another morning of work in the yard. It was a bit rainy when I got up and showers were predicted for the day so I decided to work on some Cranberry Hall and tax papers instead. As it turned out, the … Continue reading Lesser of two evils →
• Unexpected time (4/5/2018) - Thursday, April 5, 2018 As usual, I did a bit of cross stitching before getting started on my day. It is amazing how quickly this first cross stitch block is coming together; I work with just one strand of thread (split into three strands) each morning while I have my coffee. I can hardly wait … Continue reading Unexpected time →
• What a day (4/4/2018) - Wednesday, April 4, 2018 The yard has needed some attention for a long time but I never seemed to be free when the sun was shining. I heard yesterday that we were in for some rain over the next while so I decided today was the day I would get back into my gardening schedule. … Continue reading What a day →
• More fun than MahJong (4/3/2018) - Tuesday, April 3, 2018 I had a good weekend on Texada. The weather didn’t cooperate so we weren’t able to go out for any walks but we did do a nice drive one day; it is always warm when you are inside behind a window. It was warm enough one afternoon that I was able … Continue reading More fun than MahJong →
• March UFO Challenge (3/31/2018) - March 31, 2018 I can’t believe that between my own photos and the ones I take for the Guild I couldn’t find a “Before” photo of this project. It will be a good reminder for me to take a photo for the next one. The class for this table runner was taught in November, 2016 … Continue reading March UFO Challenge →
• I have bags to pack (3/29/2018) - Thursday, March 29, 2018 I have a couple of bags to get packed today – maybe even three. I’m heading out this afternoon for my Thursday sewing session. I haven’t touched that project for a couple of weeks and it is ready to go on the design wall today. My sewing partners are way ahead … Continue reading I have bags to pack →
• Have I wasted enough time? (3/28/2018) - Wednesday, March 28, 2018 I haven’t posted in a few days but I’ve been busy. Pat is over at the studio so I’ve been having a crafting retreat all on my own. Mostly I’ve been sewing but there has been some colouring and knitting added to the mix. When I talked to Kathryn a couple … Continue reading Have I wasted enough time? →
• It really was magic (3/24/2018) - Saturday, March 24, 2018 Pat left the house before me this morning – he was headed to Texada and I was heading to a Guild class for the day. The class was billed as a Magic 9-Patch technique and it certainly was that. I started out with a plan that involved a lot more blocks … Continue reading It really was magic →
• We gained half a day (3/23/2018) - Friday, March 23, 2018 We had a good trip to the Island, although we came home earlier than planned. All our shopping was done yesterday and the weather wasn’t great this morning so we headed home on the ten o’clock ferry rather than waiting for the afternoon. We did a big Costco shop – a … Continue reading We gained half a day →
• It’s just like Christmas (3/21/2018) - Wednesday, March 21, 2018 As I was out and about this morning I was thinking that March/April is a little like Christmas. Lots of family birthdays (that require a card) and lots of presents to be bought. After the bee yesterday I purchased two of those presents online, and this morning I went out shopping … Continue reading It’s just like Christmas →
• No-machine bee (3/20/2018) - Tuesday, March 20, 2018 It was a bit of a lighter load this morning when I headed out the door. Nothing I had planned for the day involved my sewing machine so I was able to leave it behind. I finished my Tuesday project on the weekend and although I have the next project picked … Continue reading No-machine bee →
• A little of everything (3/19/2018) - Monday, March 19, 2018 I was so tired yesterday, after three late nights, that I was in bed shortly after seven. Except for waking up a couple of times in the night (for a medivac helicopter to fly in and fly out) I slept through until seven this morning. I enjoyed the House Concert – … Continue reading A little of everything →
• Double Day (3/17/2018) - Saturday, March 17, 2018 It’s a special day for two reasons – St. Patrick’s Day (of course) and also National Quilting Day. And what better photo to commemorate the day than this Singer sewing machine transformed into a table in the pub. We actually saw a these in a number of places in Ireland. Although … Continue reading Double Day →
• It’s a good thing I’m retired (3/16/2018) - Friday, March 16, 2018 Pat and I did a foolish thing last night – we stayed up until 2 AM watching a full season of Broadchurch. We watched a couple of episodes before I headed out to my Boro class and after I got home we started watching again. The episodes were such that we … Continue reading It’s a good thing I’m retired →
• Busy Days (3/15/2018) - Thursday, March 15, 2018 Yesterday didn’t go the way I planned. I wanted to get some cards done but I realized Pat’s GST report was due at the accountant’s so I thought I should get busy at that before I started having fun. I didn’t expect to get far as I usually need paperwork and … Continue reading Busy Days →
• The rain is back (3/13/2018) - Tuesday, March 13, 2018 It was a cloudy but nice morning but by noon the rain had started and we’re socked in. While I waited for Carola to come up the hill for a ride to the bee I cleaned up some pots on the back deck. I thought I might be able to do … Continue reading The rain is back →
• One block plus (3/12/2018) - Monday, March 12, 2018 I just finished quilting another block; this whole project is so much slower than I anticipated it would be. I’ll be on to a new design with my next session so I’m hopeful that will energize me. I think I’m over half done but I hate to count just in case … Continue reading One block plus →
• Slow but sure (3/11/2018) - Sunday, March 11, 2018 I’m feeling much better today – a bit of a sore throat left but nothing I can’t handle. And the Vitamin D in the sunshine today will certainly help. It was an early night for me last night – in bed before nine and that was after we set our clocks … Continue reading Slow but sure →
• An “off” day (3/10/2018) - Saturday, March 10, 2018 I woke up with a sore throat that by noon had turned into a cold. I had some Throat Coat tea this morning and a couple of Distan so I’m feeling better – at least my nose isn’t running and I’m able to swallow without too much pain. But I’ve been … Continue reading An “off” day →
• No more delays (3/9/2018) - Friday, March 9, 2018 I was late getting back from my Thursday stitching and dinner was ready when I got home. We have another person joining us for Thursday afternoon; we’re at four now and I don’t think there is room for anyone else. I spent the afternoon stitching my half-square triangles. Although I’d love … Continue reading No more delays →
• Doing it my own way (3/7/2018) - Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Appliqué isn’t something I particularly enjoy doing. I like the finished look of needle-turn appliqué but I seldom take the time to do it that way. For some patterns using the Blanket Stitch on my machine works but I’m not very good at zig-zags. I think that is why I was … Continue reading Doing it my own way →
• Not many stitches (3/6/2018) - Tuesday, March 6, 2018 I didn’t manage many stitches at the bee today but I got myself organized for some chain piecing on two projects. I pressed and trimmed the 120 half-square triangles that I need for the border on my Circa 2016 project. I managed to stitch a few of them together before my … Continue reading Not many stitches →
• How Long? (3/5/2018) - Monday, March 5, 2018 I had a great weekend on Texada. I cross stitched during the day and started a new project for the evenings. I won this hooked rug kit several years ago at an event I was volunteering at. I moved it from room to room until I had Pat take it across … Continue reading How Long? →
• Something Old – Something New (3/1/2018) - Thursday, March 1, 2018 I got the number for my UFO Challenge this morning – I’ll be working on a Christmas project I started in a Guild class at least two years ago. I’m hoping I can actually finish it by the end of the month. I spent most of the morning working on my … Continue reading Something Old – Something New →
• UFO Challenge – #9 (2/28/2018) - Wednesday, February 28, 2018 It’s the end of the month so my monthly UFO Challenge project will be tucked away and tomorrow I’ll find out what my new project will be. I must say this is the most motivating UFO challenge I’ve done. As they say, a month is enough time to make significant progress … Continue reading UFO Challenge – #9 →
• I’ll need more days off (2/27/2018) - Tuesday, February 27, 2018 I was up early this morning waiting for the mechanic to show up. The battery charged just fine last night but I knew it would. What I don’t know (and want desperately to know) is what is draining it. Mechanic says could be a glitch somewhere in the electronics and it … Continue reading I’ll need more days off →
• I am so ticked off! (2/26/2018) - Monday, February 26, 2018 Pat left for Texada this morning and I decided not to delay any longer in getting a quilt sandwiched. I’m using flannel as a backing so once I had the back pieced together I stuck it in the wash. I’ve picked out a quilting pattern and I’m hoping it can be … Continue reading I am so ticked off! →
• A flurry (2/25/2018) - Sunday, February 25, 2018 It was bright and sunny out when I got up this morning but half an hour later it was snowing; you could see it coming toward us from across the Strait. But within half an hour it was all gone and the sun was back; there was no accumulation at all … Continue reading A flurry →
• Lazy Morning (2/24/2018) - Saturday, February 24, 2018 Pat’s flight home was an hour late last night; I was late to be by the time we ordered a pizza and ate it. We were up early and even though we sat around with our coffee we still managed to be out the door before 9:30. Pat had to pick … Continue reading Lazy Morning →
• We knew it was coming (2/23/2018) - Friday, February 23, 2018 The snow arrived this morning, as predicted. It started earlier than I thought it would and it has been snowing off and on all day. During the early part of the morning the snow was sticking to the road but that seems to have cleared up some. A couple of cars … Continue reading We knew it was coming →
• I used to be more interesting (2/21/2018) - Wednesday, February 21, 2018 What did I do today? A bit of sewing, some errands, and a bit more sewing. I used to lead a more interesting life but I guess as long as I’m enjoying myself it doesn’t matter if I’m entertaining anyone else. I spray basted a couple of projects this morning – … Continue reading I used to be more interesting →
• Errand Day (2/20/2018) - Tuesday, February 20, 2018 As I do on most sewing days my first stop was at the post office. Our last performer left a shawl behind and I wanted to mail it off to her while I still remembered. I had a bank deposit ready to go as well as a parcel card for something … Continue reading Errand Day →
• What a lovely day (2/19/2018) - Monday, February 19, 2018 Peggy and Barb (Elliott) came across on the noon ferry today for a visit. I originally thought lunch at a restaurant with a balcony view might be nice but with a temperature of -6 this morning I quickly decided somewhere warm would be much better. After lunch we came back to … Continue reading What a lovely day →
• I’m glad that week is over (2/18/2018) - Sunday, February 18, 2018 I haven’t checked in since we were preparing for our House Concert, so let me tell you that it was wonderful. It is performers like Janelle (Nadeau) who make me think I should say yes to another season. Don’t hold me to that though as there are lots of concerts left … Continue reading I’m glad that week is over →
• In My Livingroom – Tonight! (2/16/2018) - Friday, February 16, 2018 We’re all set for tonight’s concert – Janelle Nadeau! It’s going to be a good one.  
• 2018 Film Festival – Day 3 (2/16/2018) - Faces Places What a delightful documentary about Agnes Varda, an 88 year old filmmaker, and JR, a 30-something photographer, as they travel through rural France visiting with and filming working-class people. Giant prints of their photos are then hung on various buildings – think barns, blocks of housing units, abandoned towns. They drive around in … Continue reading 2018 Film Festival – Day 3 →
• A couple of blocks (2/15/2018) - Thursday, February 15, 2018 I’m off at the Film Festival but I managed to complete my two blocks for the Guild’s next meeting. Both patterns came from my Block a Day calendar; up to now I’d never made any of the blocks but for the rest of this Guild challenge I will definitely be referring … Continue reading A couple of blocks →
• Film Festival starts tonight – unofficially (2/12/2018) - Monday, February 12, 2018 Pat had a nap yesterday afternoon and I was busy crocheting until he called me for dinner. I thought the clock said 5:30 which meant we had lots of time for dinner and the movie. The next time I looked at the clock it was 7 PM – I had misread … Continue reading Film Festival starts tonight – unofficially →
• Procrastinating (2/11/2018) - Sunday, February 11, 2018 We’ve had two sunny days in a row, days that I’ve been home with nothing planned. But am I out on the deck spray-basing my quilts? No! I should be, but with the Film Festival on next week I know I won’t have any time to start the quilting so I’ve … Continue reading Procrastinating →
• What day is it? (2/10/2018) - Saturday, February 10, 2018 My head knows that it is Saturday but I’ve had to keep reminding myself all day that it isn’t Sunday. Perhaps it is because our concert was on Friday and not the usual Saturday evening that things are all off. Most of the things I’ve been doing today have been done … Continue reading What day is it? →
• Playing with Scraps – Again! (2/9/2018) - Friday, February 9, 2018 I finished up my cleaning this morning before heading out to the stores. I didn’t worry too much about the house because we don’t have a crowd coming in but I made sure I did all my usual cleaning and a little bit extra. We have a House Concert next weekend … Continue reading Playing with Scraps – Again! →
• Was it a win? (2/8/2018) - Thursday, February 8, 2018 We have a concert at the Hall this weekend and I said to Pat earlier in the week that if I had to do the Concession I didn’t want to host the performer. Pat’s response was that he was really looking forward to spending time with our guest. So I went … Continue reading Was it a win? →
• A new start (2/7/2018) - Wednesday, February 7, 2018 I spent the morning getting my reports ready for the Cranberry Hall Board meeting tonight. Even though I kept pretty much up to date on the accounting during January there was still a lot of reconciling to do before I wrote my reports. It seems it was a busy month for … Continue reading A new start →
• Kindle vs Book (2/6/2018) - I downloaded a number of books over the years for the Kindle app on my iPad. I read a few of those books while on vacations, but it certainly wasn’t my favourite way to read. The iPad, because it is a first edition, is heavy and not easily read in bed at the end of … Continue reading Kindle vs Book →
• Back on the Rock (2/3/2018) - Saturday, February 3, 2018 I told Pat yesterday that if it was pouring rain I wasn’t going to walk down to the terminal to catch the morning ferry across. As it turned out there was no rain and, although it wasn’t sunny, it was a nice jaunt. While I waited for the ferry I watched … Continue reading Back on the Rock →
• I couldn’t resist (2/2/2018) - Friday, February 2, 2018 Since Christmas I have been very careful not to join any online groups or sew-alongs. But my favourite sampler shop (Temecula Quilt Company) came out with a new one today and I couldn’t resist joining. It is call the the Quirky 1880 Sampler and I plan to use the scraps of … Continue reading I couldn’t resist →
• #9 (2/1/2018) - Thursday, February 1, 2018 I was actually looking forward to turning the calendar over today. The first of the month is the release date for the UFO number we will be working on for the month. My #9 is the quilt I am making from the strips I won/was given at the Texada Retreat in … Continue reading #9 →
• I did it (1/31/2018) - Wednesday, January 31, 2018 It didn’t happen without more reverse stitching but I finished the top border before I quit for supper last night. Although this is meant to be a Tuesday project I wanted to get the bottom border together before I completely forgot what I was doing. I had better luck this morning … Continue reading I did it →
• I probably should have quit at lunch (1/30/2018) - Tuesday, January 30, 2018 I was off to the bee this morning with great hopes of getting two of my borders ready to attach. Sadly I managed to get one border half done, and that was a struggle. The pattern I’m working from isn’t very detailed and I was pretty much working from a picture. … Continue reading I probably should have quit at lunch →
• Last day on the job (1/29/2018) - Monday, January 29, 2018 I cleaned the Hall this morning and, hopefully, that will be the last time in this particular stretch. I’m being paid for the work but I’d rather not be doing it. I come home with my wrists and back aching – all that sweeping and mopping – and a load of … Continue reading Last day on the job →
• Someday I’ll get it right (1/28/2018) - Sunday, January 28, 2018 As expected, it was a small crowd at the concert last night (Chris Ronald). I did quite well on the concession though, considering the number of people. It was a bonus that I really enjoyed the show; I even came home with two CDs. I was clearing off my cutting table … Continue reading Someday I’ll get it right →
• Sew and Snow (1/27/2018) - Saturday, January 27, 2018 I was looking forward to a day of sewing with the Guild. I didn’t want to get up when the alarm went off this morning but I forced myself out of bed; one look out the window at the snow on the ground and I crawled right back into my bed. … Continue reading Sew and Snow →
• Baking day (1/26/2018) - Friday, January 26, 2018 I spent all morning baking but it went quicker than I thought it would. First I made Raisin Drop cookies but I used cranberries instead of raisins. When they came out of the oven I had a coffee cake ready to go in. By the time the cake cooled I had … Continue reading Baking day →
• I’m looking forward to this meeting (1/25/2018) - Thursday, January 25, 2018 I did my shopping first thing this morning and was home by 9:30; it’s a good thing my stores (Walmart and Safeway) and the bank open early. No waits at check-out and no line-ups at the ATM. I had enough time left this morning to finish the appliqué on my quilting … Continue reading I’m looking forward to this meeting →
• It’s a start (1/24/2018) - Wednesday, January 24, 2018 I spent the morning cleaning the Hall. As I was cleaning I kept thinking this was my last week but unless our regular cleaner comes back early I have one more week left. Months with five weeks are sometimes good but this month not so much. I had a few errands … Continue reading It’s a start →
• Another sleepless night (1/23/2018) - Tuesday, January 23, 2018 My night wasn’t exactly sleepless, but I didn’t feel all that rested when I got up. The wind and rain started up (again) overnight and it is still blowing. I was awake and reading for about an hour and then finally got back to sleep around five. I turned my alarm … Continue reading Another sleepless night →
• Lists (1/22/2018) - Monday, January 22, 2018 I had my journal written in my mind yesterday – I just failed to get it any further. I was busy at the end of the day doing some Guild business; I realized I needed to have a photo printed so headed out to Walmart. It was just past five and … Continue reading Lists →
• The wind is roaring again today (1/20/2018) - Saturday, January 20, 2018 Pat got home last night and the performers (I assume) arrived on the afternoon ferry. But the show didn’t start until eight-thirty or nine and there was no way I could imagine myself heading out the door at that time – heading for my pjs at that time is more my … Continue reading The wind is roaring again today →
• Storm – Day Three (1/19/2018) - Friday, January 19, 2018 It’s another stormy day here – wind, rain, ferries cancelled. I don’t have an easy way to check on flights in and out of the airport. I haven’t heard any planes all day but they might be taking off and landing from the opposite direction; they usually fly right over the … Continue reading Storm – Day Three →
• The race is on (1/18/2018) - Thursday, January 18, 2018 I spent most of the morning at my computer. I had some reconciling to do for the Cranberry Hall accounts and then I got as much done for the next meeting as possible. I paid a few of my own bills and sorted through my e-mail. I even took a look … Continue reading The race is on →
• Spending more than I’m earning (1/17/2018) - Wednesday, January 17, 2018 I’ve mentioned that I’m doing the cleaning at the Hall for this month. Today was week three so I’ve accumulated some savings. But a stop at the fabric shop more than took care of my earnings. I needed some Steam-a-Seam as I used the last of my box on some Guild … Continue reading Spending more than I’m earning →
• Two down (1/16/2018) - Tuesday, January 16, 2018 I finished the pair of slippers last night as we finished the most recent season of Colony (on Netflix). I need to find some puff paint (whatever that is) to put on the bottom of the slippers to make them – well, less slippery. I was off at the bee today, … Continue reading Two down →
• It’s settled – almost (1/15/2018) - Monday, January 15, 2018 I finished my knitting project last night. In spite of the fact that I had several other things in the line-up I started on something completely different. I was chatting with a friend at our last house concert about the various craft sales that went on before Christmas. She was lamenting … Continue reading It’s settled – almost →
• All I want to do is knit (1/14/2018) - Sunday, January 14, 2018 We had a sell-out crowd at the concert last night but, as I expected, it was a late night. Our concession sales weren’t as high as usual – I blame that on the fact that I used store-bought cookies rather than home baked. My bundt cake didn’t start selling until intermission … Continue reading All I want to do is knit →
• Another busy day (1/13/2018) - Saturday, January 13, 2018 I was so busy yesterday I didn’t get around to my usual post. I started my morning at Cranberry Hall doing the cleaning and I didn’t finish my day until almost six when the cake I made for tonight’s concession was finished. I was up early to finish some last minute … Continue reading Another busy day →
• Unexpected, but all good (1/11/2018) - Thursday, January 11, 2018 I don’t think I should plan my days ahead of time. I knew today I wanted to start my cleaning (for concert performers this weekend) and it was my first hand stitching session in such a long time. Although I got everything done as planned, it wasn’t exactly what I thought … Continue reading Unexpected, but all good →
• It was just silly (1/10/2018) - Wednesday, January 10, 2018 I planned to get the Cranberry Hall minutes out this morning, do a couple of quick Guild updates and then move on to something more fun. I was barely started on the minutes when Pat arrived home; I wasn’t expecting him until the noon ferry. I was almost done the minutes … Continue reading It was just silly →
• Why (1/8/2018) - Monday, January 8, 2018 Why is it that a miniature quilt takes so long? I worked on this project almost all day yesterday. I had the top all ready for the final border when I realized that two of the blocks were upside down. Fortunately they were both in one row so only one row … Continue reading Why →
• Home day (1/6/2018) - Saturday, January 6, 2018 Although there were errands I could have done today I chose to leave them all and spend the entire day at home. I spent all morning going through some files on my computer. That led to some updates to my website, as well as getting pages ready for my Project Book. … Continue reading Home day →
• Where has the day gone? (1/5/2018) - Friday, January 5, 2018 I knew I had a busy day planned but I didn’t think the day would be completely gone before I was finished all my tasks! Before heading out for my cleaning gig at the Hall I loaded up my cans and bottles, as well as my recycling for the depot. The … Continue reading Where has the day gone? →
• Not according to plan (1/4/2018) - Thursday, January 4, 2018 My plan for today was to do a couple of quick things that resulted from the Board meeting last night, get a deposit ready, and head out for a few errands – the bottle and recycle depot as well as get some gas. Then I remembered that I had to do … Continue reading Not according to plan →
• A quick update (1/3/2018) - Wednesday, January 3, 2018 I have less than ten minutes before we head off to the Cranberry Hall Board meeting. I spent all day in my studio – most of the morning was spent getting reports ready for the meeting tonight and for the Guild meeting tomorrow. When the work was done I got busy … Continue reading A quick update →
• Back to my routine (1/2/2018) - Tuesday, January 2, 2018 I’m back to my routine today and I’m glad; by the end of the holiday I was ready. I was back at the bee today after a quick stop to drop books at the Library and get a parcel mailed. I’m trying to do as much running around on Tuesday as … Continue reading Back to my routine →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2018) - Monday, January 1, 2018 Here’s my list for 2018! It really is time to get something done with my boxes and bins of photos. I probably have just as many photos stored digitally too. We’ll continue with the House Concerts – three more scheduled for the Spring. We don’t have to make a decision until … Continue reading Happy New Year →
• End of the Year Accounting (12/31/2017) - Sunday, December 31, 2017 It’s that time of the year to look back and see how I did on my resolutions. In the reading category I did very well. My Goodreads challenge was to complete 20 books and I doubled that. I’m currently working on my 41st book and it just may be done by … Continue reading End of the Year Accounting →
• Gift Card Holders (12/29/2017) - Another pattern from that same magazine – and there are still two more things in it that I’d like to make. Although not really a gift card holder, Emma received a gift card inside a sewing basket I gave her. Inside the sewing basket was this needle case – again done with English paper piecing. … Continue reading Gift Card Holders →
• Baking, laundry and packing up (12/23/2017) - Saturday, December 23, 2017 This was my day in the kitchen; I baked a Cranberry Bundt cake to take to our neighbours on Texada and I got the filling prepared for our Tortiere. We are taking a lot of food with us in anticipation of the market being closed but I guess it is a … Continue reading Baking, laundry and packing up →
• Finishing up (12/22/2017) - Friday, December 22, 2017 I was able to cross a couple more things off my list today. I finished Taylor’s birthday card and I got my Block of the Month done for the Guild. I also reworked the card that was returned. I’m sure it could now go as a “regular” letter and for sure … Continue reading Finishing up →
• Last project before Christmas (12/21/2017) - Thursday, December 21, 2017 I just finished the last project that needed to be done before Christmas. I know, you thought I was done a few days ago. I had forgotten that Pat’s accounting had to be sent to the accountant before the end of the month. Since I didn’t get his year-end files back … Continue reading Last project before Christmas →
• Maybe tomorrow (12/20/2017) - Wednesday, December 20, 2017 My day at home didn’t work out as I had hoped. I knew I had to make a trip to the Post Office, but how did my list get so long? I spent the morning working on a new project. It started out to be a card for Taylor’s birthday and … Continue reading Maybe tomorrow →
• Focus (12/19/2017) - Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Pat and I have chatted about why it is I get so much done at the studio on Texada and not when I’m in my studio here at home. He suggested I try to do all my “running around” on one day of the week. Another suggestion was to see a … Continue reading Focus →
• Best of two worlds (12/18/2017) - Monday, December 18, 2017 We arrived home on the noon ferry from a great weekend at the studio – actually Pat had a great week before I got there! As much as I like our place on Texada it is nice to be back home. We had another busy day on Sunday. When we were … Continue reading Best of two worlds →
• Lifetime Winnings – $30 (12/16/2017) - Saturday, December 16, 2017 We had a great day yesterday. I caught the early ferry over to the studio so I was on “The Rock” by nine. The sun was shining so we went out for a long walk in the afternoon. We’ve walked the path around Turtle Lake a few times but yesterday we … Continue reading Lifetime Winnings – $30 →
• Fogged in (12/14/2017) - Thursday, December 14, 2017 I knew before I was even out of bed this morning that we were in for a foggy day. When we have thick fog, the kind that keeps the planes from flying, the ferries both coming and going sound their fog horns about every five minutes. The first ferry arrives at … Continue reading Fogged in →
• An early start (12/13/2017) - Wednesday, December 13, 2017 I was awake and ready to go at 3 AM! I’m not sure what my brain thought I needed to get done so badly; I ignored it until 5:30 when I finally gave in and got up. I must say you can get a lot done before 9 AM with that … Continue reading An early start →
• Making a “new” list (12/12/2017) - Tuesday, December 12, 2017 When my alarm went off this morning I really wasn’t ready to get up and not only because I thought they said it was -7 outside! But it was a bee day and I hate to miss a minute of it. I thought I should warm my car up a bit … Continue reading Making a “new” list →
• In the mail (12/11/2017) - Monday, December 11, 2017 I didn’t have to stand in line too long at the post office this morning. I wouldn’t have wanted to be behind me in the line-up though. When I walked in the door there were about half a dozen people ahead of me. There were two clerks on duty so it … Continue reading In the mail →
• What now? (12/10/2017) - Sunday, December 10, 2017 The packages are wrapped and ready for the mail; I found enough large bags that I should be able to get everything into the post office in one trip. I hate to think what these packages might cost me but it’s worth it – you’re worth it, right! I spent the … Continue reading What now? →
• Almost done (12/9/2017) - Saturday, December 9, 2017 I’ve been at it all day and I have almost all of my packages wrapped and ready for the mail. I’ve completely run out of energy though so I’m calling it quits. I will have time tomorrow to finish up the wrapping so I can be at the post office first … Continue reading Almost done →
• Ready to wrap (12/8/2017) - Friday, December 8, 2017 It has taken me all day but I finally have everything I need to start wrapping gifts for the mail. All the shopping is done – online, in Saskatoon, and locally. All the stitching is done – at home, in airports, and on Texada. I feel like I’m really late getting … Continue reading Ready to wrap →
• Done – sort of (12/7/2017) - Thursday, December 7, 2017 It took all morning to finish my Guild work for the meeting tonight. Our website is a freebie and therefore comes with size restrictions. Although we aren’t entirely out of space I decided (for some strange reason) that today would be a good day to archive some of the pages and … Continue reading Done – sort of →
• Something different (12/6/2017) - Wednesday, December 6, 2017 Although I wasn’t able to find the patterns I was looking for last night, I think we all knew I wasn’t just going to pitch the cross stitch pieces (partly because Mum stitched them and partly because I’m too cheap to waste an almost-done project). The back stitching might not be … Continue reading Something different →
• Back at the bee (12/5/2017) - Tuesday, December 5, 2017 It’s been awhile so it was good to be back at the bee today and I accomplished quite a bit. I had one complete project to do and I didn’t think it would take long, even though it involved a zipper. I was congratulating myself on how well I managed putting … Continue reading Back at the bee →
• Home again (12/4/2017) - Monday, December 4, 2017 It was a busy weekend on Texada; when I mentioned that to someone I was told that “every weekend is like this one”! We had dinner at the restaurant on Saturday before heading off to the play. As I waited for Pat to pay the bill our waitress called me by … Continue reading Home again →
• Hello from Texada (12/2/2017) - Saturday, December 2, 2017 There has really been no reason for me not to post from Texada – I guess since it feels so much like a holiday when I’m here I don’t think to do it. The show last night was just short of a sell-out – Oliver Swain was performing and he had … Continue reading Hello from Texada →
• Another day … another show (12/1/2017) - Friday, December 1, 2017 Yay, I can finally start putting out my Christmas decorations. Since I came back from Saskatoon I’ve been itching to get it all out; Deloise’s house was beautifully decorated for the Open House and Kathryn was busy getting her tree and decorations out. I admit that one of the table toppers … Continue reading Another day … another show →
• It’s good to be home (11/29/2017) - Wednesday, November 29, 2017 Yesterday was a long day. I was up at 4:30 AM Saskatoon time (translates to 2:30 AM my time) and didn’t get back home until the 4:30 PM ferry (my time). I had a long wait in the Edmonton airport but it gave me a chance to finish up the hand … Continue reading It’s good to be home →
• Almost ready (11/21/2017) - Tuesday, November 21, 2017 I still had a few things left to do before my trip so I decided not to go to the bee. I didn’t have anything urgent that needed to be stitched, although there was lots that I could have done. I did a bit of shopping this morning and got home … Continue reading Almost ready →
• My Christmas Cheer (11/20/2017) - Monday, November 20, 2017 I started feeling the Christmas spirit today. I dropped off several bags of knitting to the Salvation Army for their Christmas boxes. It is quite surprising how much I was able to get done in a year; on the other hand you might say I’ve spent way too many evenings watching … Continue reading My Christmas Cheer →
• Gradually (11/19/2017) - Sunday, November 19, 2017 I’m gradually crossing items off my list – as of right now I’m half-way done! I notice that packing isn’t actually on the list but I have lots of stuff spread out on the bed waiting to be packed. I even did a couple of loads of laundry today. I don’t … Continue reading Gradually →
• Making a List (11/18/2017) - Saturday, November 18, 2017 I’ve made a list of everything that needs to be done before I leave for Saskatoon. As you can see it isn’t a short list. I was happy to be able to cross one thing off that list today and, with any luck, I’ll cross another one off tonight.  
• It fits in perfectly (11/17/2017) - Friday, November 17, 2017 My new desk fits in perfectly – in fact I think I have more space than I did before; mind you not all of my “stuff” has been put back yet. I worked on the Cranberry Hall minutes yesterday afternoon and I had space for all the paper without it covering … Continue reading It fits in perfectly →
• More stitching with friends (11/16/2017) - Thursday, November 16, 2017 For almost a full week I’ve been sewing either in groups of friends or with at least one friend. I’m amazed that I’m not tired of it by now. It is a Guild demo night and for the past couple of years the demos have been “hands-on”. We’re making pillow cases … Continue reading More stitching with friends →
• Long-Arm Quilting (11/15/2017) - Wednesday, November 15, 2017 Today was the big day for trying out the long-arm machine at my friend Gail’s. I spent most of the morning getting ready for our date. I still had two borders to stitch on the practice quilt and then I needed to piece the backing and cut the batting. That part … Continue reading Long-Arm Quilting →
• Busy, busy, busy (11/14/2017) - Tuesday, November 14, 2017 I have a lot of days to catch up on so here we go. The Texada retreat started on Friday but since hand stitching was canceled for Thursday I decided to take the mid-morning ferry across to the studio. My main project for the retreat was a Christmas one and I … Continue reading Busy, busy, busy →
• Far from ready (11/8/2017) - Wednesday, November 8, 2017 I’ve had a couple of busy days but I’m far from ready to leave tomorrow. Tuesday’s bee was productive – I got a couple of prototypes for Christmas started. It was enough that I changed up the plan a bit! When I got home I had more Cranberry Hall stuff to … Continue reading Far from ready →
• What now? (11/6/2017) - Monday, November 6, 2017 I didn’t get much further on my quilting yesterday. After I wrote my post I went back to the machine and within a dozen stitches I ran out of bobbin thread. I just couldn’t bring myself to wind another at that point in the day so stopped. I finished my first … Continue reading What now? →
• I’m never going to finish (11/5/2017) - Sunday, November 5, 2017 If you changed timed this weekend, how did you spend your extra hour? I think mine was spent changing all the clocks. We normally do the time change Saturday evening but I totally forgot about it. Fortunately when I woke up at seven (on my clock) I immediately remembered the time … Continue reading I’m never going to finish →
• Falling Back (11/4/2017) - Saturday, November 4, 2017 I had an early start to my day and was back at my sewing machine just shortly past eight. It turned out there were very few of those nine-patches remaining and I had them done in no time. The first craft fair was on at eleven and before it was time … Continue reading Falling Back →
• Making progress (11/3/2017) - Friday, November 3, 2017 I quilted all morning. I was hoping that by lunch I would have all the straight-line stitching done but that just didn’t happen. I’ve been working and working and never really noticing how many 9-patches still needed to be outlined; I assumed that with all that I’d done so far I … Continue reading Making progress →
• Just like old friends (11/2/2017) - When I came back from Texada on Monday I decided I didn’t care if my house was as clean “as usual” for the house concert on Wednesday night. But by Tuesday morning I had changed my mind so I stayed home from the bee and did my usual round of cleaning. Hallowe’en night I had … Continue reading Just like old friends →
• An extra day (10/30/2017) - Monday, October 30, 2017 When I went over to Texada on Saturday I had no intention of spending more than a day. But the timing for the ferry on Sunday was tricky. Pat had a cord of wood being delivered on Sunday afternoon so that meant I’d have to come back on the late morning … Continue reading An extra day →
• Memories (10/27/2017) - Friday, October 27, 2017 I don’t know what was wrong with me last night but I couldn’t sleep. I went to bed at my usual time, I read a bit of my book as I usually do, and I turned on the radio. Generally, under these conditions, I’m asleep before I even know what is … Continue reading Memories →
• A little less screen time (10/26/2017) - Thursday, October 26, 2017 I’m scrambling today to get something ready for my hand stitching afternoon. I have may dependable Farmer’s Daughter that I take every week but I usually take along something else. I have another hexi project that I want to try with Christmas fabrics but I’m not sure I have time to … Continue reading A little less screen time →
• Finishing and figuring (10/25/2017) - Wednesday, October 25, 2017 I fully intended to start quilting on my sandwiched donation quilt but when I started to clear my table and unpack from yesterday’s sewing I changed my mind. As of the bee yesterday I had two projects that just needed a bit more time before they could be moved to the … Continue reading Finishing and figuring →
• Something old … something new (10/24/2017) - Tuesday, October 24, 2017 It was same old … same old for a Tuesday – I was off to sew with the Guild. I had just a little bit of work left on a project that has been “in a bin” for almost two years. I finished off all the bits and pieces and, with … Continue reading Something old … something new →
• It should have been quick (10/23/2017) - Monday, October 23, 2017 I should have had a quick finish this morning. I was quilting my miniature (a table topper) but somehow I messed up and had to unpick six lines of quilting. Fortunately it was all straight lines and by after lunch I was ready to start another round of quilting. The binding … Continue reading It should have been quick →
• Lazy Day (10/22/2017) - Sunday, October 22, 2017 I’m having a lazy day today. I did some cleaning this morning before heading out for a few groceries and a bit of other shopping. I was annoyed with myself when I got home and realized I had neglected to shop for a couple of things; I didn’t have them on … Continue reading Lazy Day →
• A productive weekend (10/21/2017) - Saturday, October 21, 2017 Our Community Quilt weekends are usually on a Saturday/Sunday but, because we sew in a Church, our “weekends” are Friday and Saturday. No wonder I am completely confused on the day of the week. I worked hard and managed to get a lot done. Project #1 was an easy finish – … Continue reading A productive weekend →
• I’m ready (10/19/2017) - Thursday, October 19, 2017 I spent most of the morning on my computer – paying some bills and booking my flight to Saskatoon in November. Before my lunch break though I had time to trim my Twinkling Stars quilt and cut out strips for the binding. I’ll attach the binding at the bee on Friday … Continue reading I’m ready →
• Quilting Day (10/18/2017) - Wednesday, October 18, 2017 I know you think everyday is a quilting day for me – Pat certainly likes to spread that rumor around. But today was “real” quilting, not just cutting, piecing or sandwiching. I’ve been working (in very short burst) at quilting a Community Quilt I’ve had on the go for a couple … Continue reading Quilting Day →
• Flying solo (10/17/2017) - Tuesday, October 17, 2017 I usually take Carola with me when I go to sewing as she doesn’t drive. Last week I was asked if I would contact one of our more senior members who no longer can drive to offer her a ride to all our events. I said I would but when I … Continue reading Flying solo →
• Home again, unpacked and packing up again (10/16/2017) - Monday, October 16, 2017 I had a lovely weekend at the studio – my first solo visit. Getting up and down the driveway wasn’t as bad as I imagined it would be – in fact I think going down was worse than going up. I spent most of my time indoors working on various projects, … Continue reading Home again, unpacked and packing up again →
• I’m early (10/12/2017) - Thursday, October 12, 2013 This morning I finished gathering all my stuff for the Texada trip; I even had time to do a run to the recycle depot. It was to be an afternoon of hand stitching and I wanted to have everything ready so I could catch the 8:30 ferry in the morning. I … Continue reading I’m early →
• I get nothing done (10/11/2017) - Wednesday, October 11, 2017 I feel like I don’t get anything done these days. I’m either unpacking from a trip to the studio or packing for a trip to the studio. Today I did a little of both. I did a walk-on to the ferry when I came back on Monday so the majority of … Continue reading I get nothing done →
• Even laundry is more fun (10/9/2017) - Monday, October 9, 2017 My plan to do a couple of posts from Texada fell apart when I left my iPad sitting on the couch. I know how it happened – I was playing games as I waited for Carola so we could go to the Guild meeting together. She arrived earlier than I expected … Continue reading Even laundry is more fun →
• I think I’ve got my groove back (10/3/2017) - Tuesday, October 3, 2017 We had a great show last night. By the afternoon I was telling Pat I didn’t think the work involved was worth the free entertainment but this performer might have changed my mind. We’ll see how the rest of the season goes. It was a late night but I was out … Continue reading I think I’ve got my groove back →
• I’m ready (10/5/2017) - Thursday, October 5, 2017 I had a few errands to run this morning – a drop off and pick up at Cranberry Hall, a stop at the dollar store, a quick trip into Walmart, and money taken out at the bank. All that was finished before the Credit Union opened so I had coffee and … Continue reading I’m ready →
• A bee day (10/10/2017) - Tuesday, October 10, 2017 I headed out in the cold and the rain this morning and came home in the sunshine (but still cool weather). It is clouding over again and I expect there will be more rain before the day is done. There are two on-going monthly projects at the Guild this year and … Continue reading A bee day →
• Almost ready (10/1/2017) - Sunday, October 1, 2017 By the time Pat got home, just after noon, I had pretty much finished all my cleaning. I have a few things left to do but they are things I usually take care of on the morning of the concert anyway. I think my cleaning in the laundry room made the … Continue reading Almost ready →
• Landline (10/5/2017) - The basic theme of the movie is that a husband is cheating on his wife and when his daughters suspect him they wonder if they should tell their mother. The actual story is much less about the husband and the wife, or even about what the daughters are doing about the affair. To me, that … Continue reading Landline →
• Working day (10/4/2017) - Wednesday, October 4, 2017 I spent most of the day working on Cranberry Hall and Guild reports; the Cranberry Hall meeting is tonight and Guild is tomorrow. I thought I’d get all the reports done today because I need some time to pack for our weekend trip to Texada. You’d think we’d be almost done … Continue reading Working day →
• Concert Tonight – Alan Gerber (10/2/2017) - Monday, October 2, 2017 We got the living room set up for the concert, the shopping done, dishes set out and the remainder of my cleaning done this morning – all before the arrival of our performer. It has seemed like a very long day and even though I’ve had some free time I don’t … Continue reading Concert Tonight – Alan Gerber →
• QiGong (9/30/2017) - Saturday, September 30, 2017 I headed out the door at about nine to catch my bus. It was a short trip up to the mall and then a long wait for the bus that would take me to Cranberry Hall. I was surprised when I got on the second bus to see the same driver … Continue reading QiGong →
• A good balance (9/29/2017) - Friday, September 29, 2017 I’ve had a busy but productive day. I spent the morning in the kitchen wiping down all the cupboards and drawers, as well as scrubbing the vertical blinds over the sink. I didn’t get as much done in the kitchen as I had hoped, but at least I know the parts … Continue reading A good balance →
• That didn’t go according to plan (9/28/2017) - Thursday, September 28, 2017 I headed out the door to my movie last night as planned. When I opened the gate to go out to my car I noticed my hazard lights were flashing. Right away I thought of my battery and sure enough the car didn’t have enough power left to turn over. So … Continue reading That didn’t go according to plan →
• I think I’m caught up (9/27/2017) - Wednesday, September 27, 2017 I think I’ve caught you up on my entertainment from the past week. Without internet on Texada (and because I do a lot of reading when I’m over there) it means all the updates have to wait until I’m at home. Last night, after the parcels were wrapped, I almost finished … Continue reading I think I’m caught up →
• Finally … (9/26/2017) - Tuesday, September 26, 2017 I finally made it back to the Guild bee and I lasted the entire day. I didn’t sew the entire time (I worked on the Library after lunch) but at least I stayed until the end. I’m tired tonight but, hopefully, my Tuesday’s will again be spent sewing. Once we have … Continue reading Finally … →
• Settling In (9/25/2017) - Monday, September 25, 2017 We spent our second weekend at the Texada house and it felt much less like camping than the previous weekend. We had a mover come on Friday – mainly to load and transport the equipment from Pat’s studio – so we had a few more of the comforts of home. We … Continue reading Settling In →
• What is the perfect pot luck dish? (9/21/2017) - Thursday, September 21, 2017 Tonight is the Guild pot luck so I’ve spent some time over the last few days figuring out what I should take. I seldom take a main course dish, usually a salad or sometimes a dessert. Since I’m not eating much in the way of desserts these days I decided on … Continue reading What is the perfect pot luck dish? →
• Thank you (9/20/2017) - Wednesday, September 20, 2017 Thank you to family and friends for all the good wishes for my birthday. I’ve had a great day doing a little bit of lots of things. I quilted my two placemats this morning and then did a bit of sorting out for moving on Friday. After lunch I headed out … Continue reading Thank you →
• I feel like a deserter (9/19/2017) - Tuesday, September 19, 2017 Last week I was sure that by this week I’d be ready for a day at the Guild bee. But by last evening I had already decided I was going to stay home. I had a couple of things I wanted to make for the Texada house and, to be honest, … Continue reading I feel like a deserter →
• Moving In (Part Two) (9/18/2017) - Sunday, September 17, 2017 There were too many photos for one post yesterday so here is Part Two.   This is the living room space. Pat will use one side for his studio equipment and we’ll set up a sitting area on the other side. Next trip over I’ll bring Virginia (you remember Virginia don’t … Continue reading Moving In (Part Two) →
• Moving In (9/17/2017) - Sunday, September 17, 2017 We are back from a wonderful weekend in our new Texada Island home. The conditions were rustic but we had everything we needed to settle into the place. Neither of us could believe how quiet and peaceful the weekend was. When we were leaving I said that the only reason I … Continue reading Moving In →
• A good stitching day (9/14/2017) - Thursday, September 13, 2017 I made a quick trip to the Credit Union this morning. I usually plan on a quick trip and then stand in the line-up for half an hour which ends up not being very quick. But today I made it through the line very quickly. I had time this morning to … Continue reading A good stitching day →
• I’ll do this early so I don’t forget (9/13/2017) - Wednesday, September 13, 2017 These days I don’t accomplish much in the afternoon so I may as well write my post early. We headed out to run a few errands this morning; Pat had some things at Staples for the next concert at Cranberry Hall and I went across to Walmart to pick up a … Continue reading I’ll do this early so I don’t forget →
• I almost forgot (9/12/2017) - Tuesday, September 12, 2017 Pat just came upstairs for a cup of tea and I suddenly realized I hadn’t done a post for today. I think this will still make it out for tomorrow’s e-mail. My ultrasound was moved from this morning to this afternoon so I was able to attend the Guild’s miniature meeting. … Continue reading I almost forgot →
• Not as “normal” as I would like (9/11/2017) - Monday, September 11, 2017 I had some good plans for the day and, at least for the morning, things went well. I started with a bit of Cranberry Hall work and then moved on to wrapping some fat quarters for the Guild Challenge. You may recall that I was the “winner” at the June party … Continue reading Not as “normal” as I would like →
• Getting back to it (9/10/2017) - Sunday, September 10, 2017 Thank you to everyone who wondered about my absence and sent their good wishes. I’m back on my feet, feeling much better, but still not quite at “normal”. I see improvements every day but I’m patient and allowing myself time to heal and trying to listen to what my body is … Continue reading Getting back to it →
• Same old … Same old (8/25/2017) - Friday, August 25, 2016 Is my life boring? Perhaps, but it suits me just fine! I spent the morning working in the yard. I went over a small bed that I’d done before and it took no time at all. Another larger bed, some of which had been done once, took the rest of my … Continue reading Same old … Same old →
• A little of this and that (8/23/2017) - Wednesday, August 23, 2017 I started my day by mowing the boulevard and the front yard. There wasn’t much grass on the boulevard but those darned yellow flowers just keep popping up no matter how dry it is. Pat had cut down most of the grass yesterday but I think going over it with the … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• How well do I really remember? (8/22/2017) - Tuesday, August 22, 2017 I had a good day at the bee; the card I was working on was very complicated but I finished the top before leaving for the day. Yesterday afternoon I pretty much redrafted the pattern and I was glad to learn today that another Splenderite had the same problem. I had … Continue reading How well do I really remember? →
• Did you see it? (8/21/2017) - Monday, August 21, 2017 I was awake really early with a headache and, when I finally got up at seven, even with meds and coffee I still didn’t feel all that well. But today was my first day back in the yard and the daisies needed to be deadheaded. Deadheaded is putting it mildly – … Continue reading Did you see it? →
• I almost got there (8/20/2017) - Sunday, August 20, 2017 I looked forward to catching up on my Splendid Sampler blocks today and then doing some cross stitching this afternoon. I didn’t quite manage it. I got a good start this morning and I re-designed the block that gave me so many problems yesterday. There was just one more to do … Continue reading I almost got there →
• A slow day (8/19/2017) - Saturday, August 19, 2017 I didn’t get much accomplished today but I tried. I have two blocks left in order to catch up on my second set of Splendid Sampler blocks – one is pieced and the other is part-appliqué and part-embroidery. I had some time this morning so I made a start. There are … Continue reading A slow day →
• Two days worth (8/18/2017) - Friday, August 18, 2017 I’m so thrilled to have my life back! I’ve had two full days of doing pretty much what I want to do; there have been a few errands taken care of but I’ve managed to ignore most of the cleaning that needs to be done and simply relaxed with some stitching. … Continue reading Two days worth →
• A Splendid Day (8/16/2017) - Wednesday, August 16, 2017 I’ve had a lovely day working on my Splendid Sampler blocks – the ones I’m keeping for myself, not the ones I’m sending out as cards. I’m still three behind (it will be four tomorrow) but at least I’m moving forward. Last night Pat help update the Guild brochure I was … Continue reading A Splendid Day →
• So not in the mood! (8/15/2017) - Tuesday, August 15, 2017 Today should have been a good day but I guess I’m still tired because I wasn’t in the mood to be social and the bee was less fun than it usually is. Plus I ended up with work to do at the end of the day – just because I showed … Continue reading So not in the mood! →
• Aah! (8/14/2017) - Monday, August 14, 2017 I was up early this morning but why wouldn’t I be when I went to bed at 8:30 last night. It rained Saturday night so we were watching the forecast every hour; at 7:30 Sunday morning Pat was at one of the sites sitting in the truck with the wipers going. … Continue reading Aah! →
• It’s all done except for the event (8/12/2017) - Saturday, August 12, 2017 It’s been a long day but we are in good shape for tomorrow, aside from the fact that neither Pat nor I are moving very swiftly. I spent the morning checking my lists and packing up my car. We headed for the Hall about 11:30 and I fully expected to be … Continue reading It’s all done except for the event →
• Counting down (8/11/2017) - Friday, August 11, 2017 The day is getting closer, items are being checked off the list, things are being moved to the Hall. But will I be ready? We had an early appointment on Texada this morning so we were out the door by 6:20. I am often up that early but I sure wasn’t … Continue reading Counting down →
• A nice afternoon (8/10/2017) - Thursday, August 10, 2017 My last cake is baked and in the fridge. Besides a bit of running around it took all morning. I hadn’t really planned to do anything else though so that was fine. After lunch a friend picked me up and we headed off for our stitching afternoon. I had all my … Continue reading A nice afternoon →
• A four-cake day (8/9/2017) - Wednesday, August 9, 2017 I got four cakes done today – well the fourth one is still in the oven – but I’ll only net three and a half! No, we weren’t sampling. The second cake of the day was baked in my new bundt cake pan and it didn’t come out of the pan … Continue reading A four-cake day →
• It feels like I did it all today! (8/8/2017) - Tuesday, August 8, 2017 I was up early but I had lots to do today. I had several packages that needed to be sent in the mail and I had a lot of errands to run. The parcels didn’t take long to get ready and then I had to sit and wait until the shops … Continue reading It feels like I did it all today! →
• Testing … Testing … 1 – 2 – 3 (8/7/2017) - Monday, August 7, 2017 I’ve been in the kitchen almost all day testing my recipes. First up were my Cranberry Almond cookies. They were quick to make and I got almost three dozen from the batter. I played around a bit with the cooking time and temperature. The recipe called for the cookies to bake … Continue reading Testing … Testing … 1 – 2 – 3 →
• So much to do … so little time (8/6/2017) - Sunday, August 6, 2017 It took me most of the morning to finish yesterday’s tasks. The show we are watching on Netflix is subtitled so I can’t stitch and watch at the same time. I intended to only watch one, maybe two, shows but the story was nearing its conclusion and it left you hanging … Continue reading So much to do … so little time →
• Work (8/5/2017) - Saturday, August 5, 2017 I’m working again today, but it feels more like fun. I’m busy quilting my O Canada project. In fact, the quilting is done and I’m going to start cutting the binding. I’m hoping for a finish tonight, regardless of how late I need to stay up. I have other things to … Continue reading Work →
• I want to retire … again! (8/4/2017) - Friday, August 4, 2017 Although the motion wasn’t passed unanimously it was carried so we were off on the first ferry yesterday morning – destination Costco – to pick up some new lights for Cranberry Hall. Of course that wasn’t all we purchased; I got several jugs of Cranberry Juice for our celebration as well … Continue reading I want to retire … again! →
• Smokin’ (8/2/2017) - Wednesday, August 2, 2017 The haze in the air is definitely smoke. The sunset last night was several degrees more red than we’ve seen it this year. Although you only occasionally smell smoke in the air we can barely see the Island, and even Savary and Harwood Islands are in a haze. I was up … Continue reading Smokin’ →
• A hazy day (8/1/2017) - Tuesday, August 1, 2017 It’s hot out there today and there is a haze in the air; I’m not sure if it is from the heat or we’re getting smoke from some of the fires. I managed to get a lot done today but very little stitching even though I was at the bee. We … Continue reading A hazy day →
• Successes (7/31/2017) - Monday, July 31, 2017 It’s been a good day. I should have been outside weeding this morning but I had a couple of Cranberry-related things to do so I stayed inside. Pat used his super-sprayer to spray vinegar on a bunch of spots in the yard. With the weather in the high twenties and maybe … Continue reading Successes →
• Home again (7/30/2017) - Sunday, July 30, 2017 We had a nice couple of days on Texada but decided to catch the first ferry home this morning. We had intended to stay for a couple of acts at the festival today but the group we really wanted to see weren’t on until later in the afternoon which meant we’d … Continue reading Home again →
• Away again (7/28/2017) - Friday, July 28, 2017 We caught a mid-morning ferry this morning to come across to Texada Island. We were the first car on the ferry (being at the terminal almost two hours ahead of the sailing helps) but, much to Pat’s chagrin, we weren’t the first car off. After a drive around Vananda we headed … Continue reading Away again →
• I finally got to the library (7/27/2017) - Thursday, July 27, 2017 I spent all morning (over three hours) in the back; it took an hour to finish off the roses but, as Pat predicted, it did seem a bit easier. I wore long sleeves and long pants so I didn’t get too many more scratches. The tricky part was having a thorn … Continue reading I finally got to the library →
• Not following my own plan (7/26/2017) - Wednesday, July 26, 2017 I should have been out finishing up the roses this morning and then moving on to the weeds in the driveway. That plan was already dashed by the time I went to bed last night! I didn’t get the weeds sprayed yesterday but I figured it didn’t really matter as I … Continue reading Not following my own plan →
• Out of practice (7/25/2017) - Tuesday, July 25, 2017 It was lovely to get back to the sewing bee today but, after being away for over a month, there were certain things I forgot. When I packed my bag yesterday I thought it seemed a little light but I had a couple of rulers, a cutting mat, and my small … Continue reading Out of practice →
• Back to the yard (7/24/2017) - Monday, July 24, 2017 There was no excuse not to get back to my gardening today. It was a little cool so I thought I would work at the back where the sun was the brightest. There are a lot of weeds in the cracks in the driveway but I hadn’t sprayed them yet so … Continue reading Back to the yard →
• Back on track (7/23/2017) - Sunday, July 23, 2017 I feel like I’m back on track. We’ve had strong winds today and they have blown away the clouds and, if the wind abates, it will feel like summer again. Perhaps the breeze blew away all the cobwebs in my mind too! I finished restitching my two Splendid Sampler blocks last … Continue reading Back on track →
• A better day (7/22/2017) - Saturday, July 22, 2017 It was a better day today – not weather-wise but I’m feeling more energetic. Perhaps I’m not really more energetic but I’ve reached the point where I need to get some things done. I started the day at the Farmer’s Market; Pat was playing a set for the first hour. I … Continue reading A better day →
• Sucks to be sick (7/21/2017) - Friday, July 21, 2017 Nothing is worse than a summer cold. I should know because I’m currently suffering from one. I should have known I was coming down with something – last night I didn’t have enough energy to even pick up my knitting. I didn’t sleep well and have felt lousy all day. It … Continue reading Sucks to be sick →
• I’m getting there (7/20/2017) - Thursday, July 20, 2017 I started cleaning up in my stitching areas today. But as I put things away I’m also sorting things because we intend to have a garage sale in September. I think I’ve gone through patterns and pattern books ten times but today, as I made my final pass before setting them … Continue reading I’m getting there →
• Good to be home? (7/19/2017) - Wednesday, July 19, 2017 We had a wonderful three weeks and it was a break from almost everything in my routine. I’m now trying to catch up on everything and it isn’t going as quickly as I would like. We spent our first week “away” in Calgary. We were happy to be there to help … Continue reading Good to be home? →
• We’re on our way! (6/27/2017) - Tuesday, June 27, 2017 No doubt by the time you read this we’ll be settled in and having fun at Elizabeth’s. When we travel we usually take either the first ferry or plane out but today we had a leisurely morning and caught the noon ferry. It gave time for Pat to do a bit … Continue reading We’re on our way! →
• A pretty balanced day (6/25/2017) - Sunday, June 25, 2017 I started my morning with a bit of embroidery while I had my coffee. After breakfast I went out to the yard and pulled the weeds that I’d given the vinegar treatment to. The small weeds came up easily but there are some tough dandelion roots that didn’t come out. I’ve … Continue reading A pretty balanced day →
• Not much accomplished (6/24/2017) - Saturday, June 24, 2017 I’ve been working all day but I haven’t accomplished much. I slept in so I had to leave for my hair appointment right after breakfast. From there I stopped at the Credit Union with another Cranberry Hall deposit. When I got home I pulled a few weeds because I wanted to … Continue reading Not much accomplished →
• Frustrating (6/23/2017) - Friday, June 23, 2017 This morning we loaded up the truck with bags and bags of yard waste and headed out to the dump. It was a messy (and smelly) job but it was good to get it done. When I got home I headed out to cut the lawn and the boulevard. When that … Continue reading Frustrating →
• A stitching day (mostly) (6/22/2017) - Thursday, June 22, 2017 My plan for today was to finish all the sewing I wanted done before our trip. I have enough Bingo blocks done that we can test out the game when the kids are here; the hard part is yet to come though as I need to come up with “Under the … Continue reading A stitching day (mostly) →
• Almost as bad a weeding (6/21/2017) - Wednesday, June 21, 2017 I had a bad night last night so decided I wouldn’t work in the yard today. After the garbage and recycle bins were put out to the curb I came upstairs and started on Pat’s accounting. His GST is due at the end of the month. By early afternoon I had … Continue reading Almost as bad a weeding →
• No shortage (6/20/2017) - Tuesday, June 20, 2017 There was no shortage of things to work on at the bee today. I pieced the binding for my Pink quilt; since the front border and backing didn’t really work with either shade of fabric I decided to do a two-colour binding. I did it once before and, in my mind, … Continue reading No shortage →
• Back to work (6/19/2017) - Monday, June 19, 2017 I worked through a few sprinkles of rain this morning but I got another bed cleared. I wasn’t pulling as many weeds today though. We have had some California Poppies in the yard and boulevard and they were about to take over one of the beds. We decided to get rid of … Continue reading Back to work →
• Happy Father’s Day (6/18/2017) - Sunday, June 18, 2017 It’s a dull day outside so we didn’t plan any outdoor events to celebrate Father’s Day. I spent most of the morning making a lemon pie for Pat’s dessert tonight. I still need to make the meringue but I’ll do that just before we go out for dinner. There is a … Continue reading Happy Father’s Day →
• It’s important to have good neighbours (6/17/2017) - Saturday, June 17, 2017 I’ve been quilting all day and Pink is finished. Well finished except for the binding. I worked on the straight-line quilting for close to three days, so I planned on two days for quilting the rest of it. I had a good start to the day, a couple of interruptions, but … Continue reading It’s important to have good neighbours →
• Challenges (6/16/2017) - Friday, June 16, 2017 The Guild party last night was a lot of fun. The library sold three boxes of books and our members were very generous. There were lots of games and prizes too and I guess, to some, I was a “winner”. Every year the Guild has a Challenge project that is initiated … Continue reading Challenges →
• I’m a straight-line quilter (6/15/2017) - Thursday, June 15, 2017 I found an interesting quilting design in my “Quilting with Rulers” book so that’s what I’ve been doing on my Pink quilt. I’ve been calling it my Sashiko quilt for so long but since the Sashiko didn’t work out I needed a new name. Once you see the quilt you will … Continue reading I’m a straight-line quilter →
• It’s really happening (6/14/2017) - Wednesday, June 14, 2017 It looked like rain this morning but I headed out to my job anyway. My boss came out on the deck before I had even started and suggested I might want to stay indoors. I cleared a very small patch and then the cold wind and dampness put a stop to … Continue reading It’s really happening →
• This was a first (6/13/2017) - Tuesday, June 13, 2017 “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all” fit my day perfectly yesterday. I finished weeding one corner of the yard but the rest of the day was unproductive or downright annoying! You must be thinking our yard is a disaster if I need to do all this … Continue reading This was a first →
• Where did the weekend go? (6/11/2017) - Sunday, June 11, 2017 I don’t have a clue what I did yesterday morning but at the end of it Pat and I went out to do a few errands. We did a bit of shopping, made a Cranberry Hall deposit and then went out for lunch. For most of the afternoon I sandwiched and … Continue reading Where did the weekend go? →
• Rewards (6/9/2017) - Friday, June 9, 2017 After two weeks of yard work I decided I needed a reward. Since my work is free, I guess my reward should also be a freebie. I’m not complaining about this one! I wish you could smell them. All the peonies in the yard are either in bud or full blossom … Continue reading Rewards →
• Wow! (6/8/2017) - Thursday, June 8, 2017 It’s been raining all day today – wouldn’t you know it would pour rain on a non-gardening day. No doubt the sun will be out tomorrow and I’ll be back to weeding. I did a bit more paperwork after I got home from the board meeting last night; naturally there is … Continue reading Wow! →
• I’m giving up (6/7/2017) - Wednesday, June 7, 2017 No, I’m not giving up on my yard work – but I would in a heartbeat if someone else would do it for the same mooney as I get! No, not my stitching – I’ll never give up on my stitching; I’ll never get it all done either! I’m giving up on … Continue reading I’m giving up →
• A much better day (6/6/2017) - Tuesday, June 6, 2017 I had a much better day today – not a big surprise as it was a sewing day. We were sewing in our new meeting place for the first time so there were a few kinks to work out. I think by the end of the day everyone was happy with … Continue reading A much better day →
• There was nothing fun about today (6/5/2017) - Monday, June 5, 2017 This was not a fun day but it certainly felt like a Monday. As I was heading out the door to work in the yard, I wondered if it was too early in my job to call in sick. I was weeding in the lavender and the roses – nice smell … Continue reading There was nothing fun about today →
• Not a bad morning (6/4/2017) - Sunday, June 4, 2017 My morning went fine for the most part. I finished the Splendid Sampler block I was working on yesterday. I’ve been using the tips I picked up at the Precision Piecing workshop and, with the exception of one seam, everything was working out well. I restitched that seam three times and … Continue reading Not a bad morning →
• All fun (6/3/2017) - Saturday, June 3, 2017 It’s been awhile since I had a day that was full of things I wanted to do without the obligation of things I needed to do or should do! I knew that I was going to make a rhubarb pie today but I didn’t want to sit idle while I waited … Continue reading All fun →
• It’s the weekend! (6/2/2017) - Friday, June 2, 2017 Weekends haven’t meant much to me since I retired but I’m looking forward to this one. I’ve finished my first week of working in the yard, I ache all over, and there is still so much to be done. But when I volunteered for this job I told Pat I wouldn’t … Continue reading It’s the weekend! →
• It’s all about the numbers (6/1/2017) - Thursday, June 1, 2017 I’ve been report writing all day today. Not exactly what I wanted to do but it had to be done. The good news is that the work I did today for the Cranberry Hall Annual General Meeting puts me in good shape for getting everything to the accountant for our year-end … Continue reading It’s all about the numbers →
• Ready for Meeting #1 (5/31/2017) - Wednesday, May 31, 2017 Between now and Sunday I have several meetings to attend and write reports for. The first one is a regular Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight. I started my day out in the yard; Pat had an appointment this morning so I was left unsupervised. I had a corner of the yard … Continue reading Ready for Meeting #1 →
• All work – No play (5/30/2017) - Tuesday, May 30, 2017 Today was moving day for the Guild and, since I needed to be available at several different times, I didn’t go to the bee. I started my day at my computer working on the Guild’s library listing. I didn’t quite get that job done before I had to head to the … Continue reading All work – No play →
• First day on the new job (5/29/2017) - Monday, May 29, 2017 Pat has had a fellow helping with the yard work for a couple of years. Willie is unreliable and often does what he wants to do rather than what Pat wants him to do. He’ll listen to what Pat wants, go off and do his thing, and then not get to … Continue reading First day on the new job →
• An early start (5/28/2017) - Sunday, May 28, 2017 I was up about 6:30 this morning and Pat wasn’t far behind me. I hadn’t even finished my coffee when he suggested we go for an early walk along the sea wall. It was a lovely morning and the path was almost empty – a few fitness fanatics (as Pat called … Continue reading An early start →
• I’ve been busy (5/27/2017) - Saturday, May 27, 2017 On Thursday we took a day trip over to the Island – and boy did the day go fast! We were on the first ferry out in the morning and it was our first trip on the new Salish Orca. The ship is smaller and, so far, it still looks new. The … Continue reading I’ve been busy →
• Where did that wind come from? (5/24/2017) - Wednesday, May 24, 2017 Late yesterday afternoon the wind started blowing and it hasn’t stopped yet. As the dinnertime ferry was pulling out I wondered how it would fare in the stormy weather. It didn’t seem to be making its usual stormy weather run so it was probably okay. The evening ferry didn’t run but we … Continue reading Where did that wind come from? →
• A busy start to my day (5/23/2017) - Tuesday, May 23, 2017 As I always do on bee days, I set my alarm for 7 AM. During the night I realized that I should have sent out a couple of Cranberry Hall e-mails so, after the coffee was started, it was straight upstairs to my computer to take care of that. I had a … Continue reading A busy start to my day →
• Another move (5/22/2017) - Monday, May 22, 2017 It never ends – the shifting, the moving, the reconfiguring! Yesterday afternoon Pat saw a posting on Facebook from one of his friends; he had a Rubbermaid desk that he was giving away. Who knew Rubbermaid even made desks? It took two trips to get all the pieces home. Pat asked … Continue reading Another move →
• Three times (5/21/2017) - Sunday, May 21, 2017 Summer must be here! We had supper on the back deck last night, and today I had breakfast and lunch on the front deck. I was itching to get back to some sewing this weekend and I started (and finished) a new project. For years I’ve wanted to turn Mum’s bread board into … Continue reading Three times →
• I can’t seem to stop (5/20/2017) - Saturday, May 20, 2017 Before I was even dressed this morning Pat asked if I would help him load up some junk into the back of his truck so we could take it out to the dump. He had already cleaned up quite a bit of stuff from around the yard but needed help with an … Continue reading I can’t seem to stop →
• Work, work, work (5/19/2017) - Friday, May 19, 2017 I’ve done nothing but work for the last two days and the only pay I get is the satisfaction of a job done. As I type that I’m smiling as none of my jobs are exactly done and I often wonder if I’ll every be completely caught up. I spent three … Continue reading Work, work, work →
• I accomplished a lot today (5/17/2017) - Wednesday, May 17, 2017 I accomplished a lot today; it’s been quite awhile since I’ve finished everything on my “to-do” list plus a little bit more. I have a meeting at the Guild tomorrow to sort through and downsize our library. Our new location won’t have room for us to keep all the books we … Continue reading I accomplished a lot today →
• It was almost like a retreat (5/16/2017) - Tuesday, May 16, 2017 The class on Sunday and Monday was fabulous. There were so many useful tips and, although not perfect, the block I made is certainly more precise. The first morning of the class was lecture and checking our machines. The instructors were a couple – Shelley took care of the precision piecing part … Continue reading It was almost like a retreat →
• A day of firsts (5/13/2017) - Saturday, May 13, 2017 I had a couple of loads of laundry to take care of and it looked like a nice enough day to hang the clothes outside. I went out to the clothesline and had a couple of items hung when I saw some pretty dark clouds overhead. The forecast said a chance … Continue reading A day of firsts →
• A day early (5/12/2017) - Friday, May 12, 2017 I washed and pressed my fabric for the class on Sunday and Monday. Here’s what I’ll be working with. I only plan to make one block but when I was at the fabric shop yesterday Deb said that she tells all her students that they should purchase enough for the entire … Continue reading A day early →
• This doesn’t happen very often! (5/11/2017) - Thursday, May 11, 2017 The coffee jar was empty this morning and, since I was up before Pat, I didn’t think the coffee grinder would be the best “waking up” sound. I made plans to meet a renter at Cranberry Hall between 8:30 and 9:00 so I was out the door before I even had … Continue reading This doesn’t happen very often! →
• New location (5/10/2017) - Wednesday, May 10, 2017 Lainey (who owned the first fabric store I frequented) still has a lot of fabric, patterns and threads for sale out of her home. She invited me over today to see what she had, and I took my Celtic Crystals quilt for her to see. I purchased the pattern as Blocks … Continue reading New location →
• Sew at home day (5/9/2017) - Tuesday, May 9, 2017 Last night I managed to finish the card I was working on but not much else. About 9:30 I started feeling ill and it was after 1 AM before I was able to settle my stomach enough to keep a gravol down. Since I had nothing prepared for the bee today it … Continue reading Sew at home day →
• Not my usual Monday (5/8/2017) - Monday, May 8, 2017 Normally, on Monday, I set my goals for the week, clean up my cutting table, sort through some scraps and get projects ready for the Tuesday bee. When that is done I pick a project to work on for the rest of the day. Today was nothing like that. I had … Continue reading Not my usual Monday →
• Busy (5/7/2017) - Sunday, May 7, 2017 I’ve had a busy day. I spent my morning cleaning and oiling two of my sewing machines. Ruby is very easy to clean and oil (and it really needed it) but until today I’d never taken apart the SUV. The oiling points were very vague, even when I consulted the manual. … Continue reading Busy →
• A lazy day (5/6/2017) - Saturday, May 6, 2017 The show last night was a great success; we ended up with a sold out crowd, and I even sold a couple of extra tickets that were turned in because they couldn’t be used. The concession did much better than last week, even though we ran out of coffee shortly into … Continue reading A lazy day →
• Were we really that bad? (5/5/2017) - Friday, May 5, 2017 It was a lively Guild meeting last night. I’ve mentioned before that the local Senior Citizen’s Association is having some internal political struggles and the Guild got caught in it last night. We knew that their executive wanted to talk to our executive; that meeting took place over the past month … Continue reading Were we really that bad? →
• Ideas (5/4/2017) - Thursday, May 4, 2017 I started baking again today; I’m loving my new mixer. I made a lemon bundt cake (a new recipe) and I was worried when it didn’t come out of the pan easily. I managed to get it out and only lost a tiny bit off of what will be the top. … Continue reading Ideas →
• I should have been baking (5/3/2017) - Wednesday, May 3, 2017 After I got my reports ready for the Cranberry Hall Board meeting I should have started baking for our Friday night concert. Instead, I worked on my project. I thought it best to get as far ahead as possible while the instructions from yesterday were still fresh in my mind. Everything … Continue reading I should have been baking →
• Back on track (5/2/2017) - Tuesday, May 2, 2017 I took my sewing problems to the bee today and I’m back on track. Back on track but not before having to take apart pretty much everything I had sewn together in the past couple of days. I’m pretty sure I’ll be fine for the rest of the project; I took … Continue reading Back on track →
• There is a reason (5/1/2017) - Monday, May 1, 2017 There is a reason I don’t make many bags – they usually include a zipper or two or more! After I finally had my three zippers stitched properly I moved on to the next step which was much easier. But as I finished that step and moved on I realize that there is … Continue reading There is a reason →
• Not a great day (4/30/2017) - Sunday, April 30, 2017 It was sunny this morning; the rain had disappeared overnight. I had some linens to launder from the Cran Hall concert on Friday so I thought it would be a good day to hang them outside to dry. I haven’t done that yet this year but the day looked promising. When … Continue reading Not a great day →
• Catching up (4/29/2017) - Saturday, April 29, 2017 The show last night was excellent, although I didn’t make as much money on the concession as I would have liked. It seemed to be busy even during the intermission but in the end it was the poorest concession (out of three) that we’ve had. We have gone from asking for donations for … Continue reading Catching up →
• Starting over (4/27/2017) - Thursday, April 27, 2017 I headed out to Canadian Tire first thing this morning to get the Pour Shield for my mixer. There was only one left on the shelf; it felt so light when I picked up the box that I opened it to be sure there was actually something in it. When I got … Continue reading Starting over →
• Out with the Old, In with the New (4/26/2017) - Wednesday, April 26, 2017 Today I started baking for the concession at Cranberry Hall on Friday night. I went grocery shopping first thing this morning and found cookie and loaf mixes so that immediately made my life easier. I had a recipe for Coconut Pineapple Loaf that I wanted to try so when I got home … Continue reading Out with the Old, In with the New →
• Sick Day (4/25/2017) - Tuesday, April 25, 2017 I had everything ready for the bee this morning but it just didn’t happen. I was awake about 2 AM with a headache and it took me almost an hour to go back to sleep. Around five the crows outside were raising quite a ruckus but when I got up to … Continue reading Sick Day →
• Rested (4/24/2017) - Monday, April 24, 2017 I went to bed early last night and had a good sleep so I was ready to start fresh today. I haven’t accomplished a lot but I often don’t on a Monday. I generally start my Monday by planning my week. One of the bloggers I follow had a chart for … Continue reading Rested →
• Happy to be home (4/23/2017) - Sunday, April 23, 2017 I had a wonderful time at the Retreat, but I’m exhausted. I didn’t sleep well on Friday night, although the accommodations were fine and I even had my own little room in a cabin that slept 10 but we only put five into. At 2 AM I was still awake so … Continue reading Happy to be home →
• Caught up (4/20/2017) - Thursday, April 20, 2017 For the first time in what seems a long time I was able to get caught up on all my paperwork. My new office area and system worked well, except for the times when I popped up out of my chair to go to my filing cabinet that now sits right … Continue reading Caught up →
• I’m already tired (4/19/2017) - Wednesday, April 19, 2017 There are still two days to go before the Retreat and I’m already tired. There were a couple of things that I needed to do before leaving so I got them out of the way today. But not before I quilted a card and got the binding ready to hand stitch. Perhaps not … Continue reading I’m already tired →
• Just my luck (4/18/2017) - Tuesday, April 18, 2017 For the most part it was a nice day today – except when I went to the bee and when I came home! I loaded my car in quite a heavy rain shower but by the time I got to the Seniors’ Centre the sun was out. I took the long … Continue reading Just my luck →
• Messed up (4/17/2017) - Monday, April 17, 2017 I’m totally out of sync today. Pat woke me up just past midnight last night to tell me he had taken the wrong medication and he was going to the ER. I asked if he wanted me to come along but he assured me he would be fine. About five minutes … Continue reading Messed up →
• Happy Easter (4/16/2017) - Sunday, April 16, 2017 I took a walk around the yard today and it looks like Spring is here.
• Feels like Sunday (4/15/2017) - Saturday, April 15, 2017 It feels like Sunday today; that’s good because I want to get back into my Sunday cross-stitching and I haven’t got there yet today. We went to Magpie’s Diner for breakfast and were early enough to avoid the rush; by the time our order came there was a line up at the door. … Continue reading Feels like Sunday →
• It’s been a busy week (4/14/2017) - Friday, April 14, 2017 While my quilt show thoughts were posting each day without my help I’ve been busy behind the scenes. My entire upstairs needed a good sorting out and cleaning and, for the most part, I have accomplished that. I’ve rearranged everything in my sewing studio and put away items that had been … Continue reading It’s been a busy week →
• Quilt Show – Sales and Purchases (4/13/2017) - Thursday, April 13, 2017 I managed to sell a few items at the show but certainly not enough to cover the cost of the items I purchased.   I had a few sets of these placemats and they were popular.       I sold a set of coasters that I have been carrying around … Continue reading Quilt Show – Sales and Purchases →
• Quilt Show – Some of my favourites (4/12/2017) - Wednesday, April 12, 2017 There were a number of great quilts in the show but my overall impression was that they weren’t as great as they have been in the past. I thought my impression might have something to do with the fact that I recognized several quilts from our bees, several were from the … Continue reading Quilt Show – Some of my favourites →
• Quilt Show – My Quilts (4/11/2017) - Tuesday, April 11, 2017 I thought there was going to be a separate display of miniature quilts so I entered a number of the ones I had made. As it turned out the miniatures were scattered throughout the show and I felt a bit guilty about having so many entries in the show. You will … Continue reading Quilt Show – My Quilts →
• 2017 Quilt Show – Where do I start? (4/10/2017) - Monday, April 10, 2017 To say I am exhausted would not be an exaggeration. I think since Thursday I have averaged about five hours of sleep each night, and at least one of those nights I was battling a stomach bug (or just a case of being over-the-top tired). Friday was set-up day and I … Continue reading 2017 Quilt Show – Where do I start? →
• It’s almost a wrap (4/6/2017) - Thursday, April 6, 2017 I’ve just finished itemizing and pricing my items for the Boutique. I only have ten items – not what I thought I might get done but at least it is something. I also have all my show items labeled and in the bags ready for transport. We are supplied XXL zippered … Continue reading It’s almost a wrap →
• How many machines does it take? (4/4/2017) - Tuesday, April 4, 2017 I was working on placemats today at the bee. Since I needed to do some straight line stitching as well as some free-motion quilting I took my SUV. I hadn’t had a chance to use the walking foot on the machine before today and, once I figured out how to attach … Continue reading How many machines does it take? →
• Down to the wire (4/3/2017) - Monday, April 3, 2017 This is going to be a busy, busy week. I’ve been working hard to get some items ready for sale at the show. I’ll be lucky if I get everything done that I have started. I finished stitching the binding on the fabric basket I made. If it doesn’t sell I’ll … Continue reading Down to the wire →
• Moving on (4/1/2017) - Saturday, April 1, 2017 I persevered with the hand stitching yesterday and finished my Celtic Crystals just a few minutes before supper. It seemed fitting that as a reward for finishing there was Flapper Pie for dessert. Although mine wasn’t as light and fluffy as I remember Mum’s, it was very good just the same. … Continue reading Moving on →
• Flapper Pie (3/31/2017) - Yesterday morning while Pat was trolling the Internet and I was playing on my iPad, he asked if I had ever heard of Flapper Pie. Well of course I had – I can almost taste Mum’s right now. Once Flapper Pie was in my mind I had to have it. I was surprised that the … Continue reading Flapper Pie →
• Can you hear me? (3/30/2017) - Thursday, March 30, 2017 Did you hear my whoop of joy as I put the last machine stitch into my Celtic Crystals quilt? I knew I would get it finished today but it took a couple of hours longer than I expected. Early in the process Pat asked what I was going to do in the borders. I … Continue reading Can you hear me? →
• Almost there (3/29/2017) - Wednesday, March 29, 2017 I am so close to finishing up the blocks on my quilt that I’d like to keep pushing and get it done today but I’m losing my concentration so I think it is better to quit before I make a mistake. I’ve been focusing so much on individual blocks that it has been … Continue reading Almost there →
• So that’s how you get things done! (3/28/2017) - Tuesday, March 28, 2017 I had an early start to my day. Pat is teaching this week with a 5:30 start; I heard him get up at 4:30 and, since I’d been awake since four, I decided to get up too. After my coffee and a little iPad time I came upstairs and finished off … Continue reading So that’s how you get things done! →
• Slow to get started (3/27/2017) - Monday, March 27, 2017 I was supposed to be getting back to my quilting as soon as I arrived home but that hasn’t turned out to be the case. I had a great visit with Christy and her family; the weather didn’t cooperate all that well but we did get a few bits of sunshine … Continue reading Slow to get started →
• It’s a lot for one day (3/18/2017) - I set the alarm for seven because I knew I had a lot to get done today. I sold raffle tickets for the Guild for a couple of hours this morning. I had a few errands to run after, as well as some recycling and a bottle-return run. Pat has a House Concert tomorrow night … Continue reading It’s a lot for one day →
• Half of this + Half of that = Half finished (3/12/2017) - Sunday, March 12, 2017 It seemed like a short morning after turning our clocks ahead last night. I felt like I wanted to sleep longer than I did, but since it was already eight when I woke up I thought I’d better get up and get busy. After my coffee, even before breakfast, I made … Continue reading Half of this + Half of that = Half finished →
• It’s a fine line (3/13/2017) - Monday, March 13, 2017 I’ve been without my car for over a week now and I really felt like I was saving money. I haven’t been going out to the shops, although my list is getting rather long. I’ve saved on gas; wear and tear is doubtful by the time I get my bill from … Continue reading It’s a fine line →
• “End of the Road” Syndrome (3/17/2017) - Friday, March 17, 2017 Did you get Irish on today? I’m wearing a green shirt (completely by accident) and I’ve been listening to Carmel Quinn while working on my Celtic Crystals. I guess I did my part. I’ve packed up my quilting for a bit. I have ten blocks and two corners finished, leaving two … Continue reading “End of the Road” Syndrome →
• SUV Initiation (3/16/2017) - Thursday, March 16, 2017 I’ve been staying at home quilting for so many days that I’m excited to be going out to a Guild work-bee tonight. It’s true that I’ve been out of the house, but that has mainly been to run errands or keep appointments. I haven’t been to a Tuesday bee for ages and … Continue reading SUV Initiation →
• A trip around the block (3/14/2017) - Tuesday, March 14, 2017 I wasn’t, then I was, then I wasn’t again – going to the bee that is. I missed last week and I expected to go out this week but since I have an eye appointment tomorrow and won’t be able to quilt for most of the day I decided to stay … Continue reading A trip around the block →
• Another day, another block (3/11/2017) - Saturday, March 11, 2017 We had such a good concert last night and I really enjoyed our guest, Raine Hamilton. She looked about 18 but her world-view hinted at a much older soul; Pat asked her this morning and she’s into her 30’s. They all look like babies to me!  There was a lot of … Continue reading Another day, another block →
• A workout (3/10/2017) - Friday, March 10, 2017 I knew I wouldn’t get long stretches of time today for quilting so I decided to get my new machine set up and give it a try. I have cards that need to be done and that was really my reason for purchasing the machine; being able to free-motion quilt on … Continue reading A workout →
• Almost forgot (3/9/2017) - Thursday, March 9, 2017 We came upstairs just now to make tea and I suddenly remembered that I hadn’t done a Journal post for today. We were at the movies last night but I won’t write that up just yet. I’ve also finished another book so I’ll have lots for tomorrow. I started my morning … Continue reading Almost forgot →
• The Classics (3/8/2017) - Wednesday, March 8, 2017 On the Beach was a book I read as a teenager and I have never forgotten it; I’ve probably read it three times over the years. The original book was on Mum and Dad’s bookshelf and when we were clearing out Dad’s books it was the one book that we all … Continue reading The Classics →
• It’s a race (3/7/2017) - Tuesday, March 7, 2017 Since all I did yesterday was quilt, quilt, quilt there didn’t seem much point in writing about it. I’ve done the same thing today but I hate to miss too many days or I may never come back to it. I’m going to go to Maple Ridge for the last week of … Continue reading It’s a race →
• Two days behind (3/5/2017) - Sunday, March 5, 2017 I’m already two days behind on my quilting schedule. It is a good thing I’ve allowed some catch-up days. When I finished quilting on Friday I was looking forward to an early finish to Saturday’s schedule and maybe even a start on Sunday’s work. As it turned out the stabilizing took … Continue reading Two days behind →
• My new SUV (3/3/2017) - Friday, March 3, 2017 I picked up my new SUV last night – my Janome SUV that is! It doesn’t do a lot of stitches but apparently it is great for free motion quilting. Purl (my current take-along machine) has a few fancy stitches but no free-motion capabilities. This new machine will allow me to … Continue reading My new SUV →
• Down to the wire (3/1/2017) - Wednesday, March 1, 2017 This morning Pat helped me with my “on the table” method for pin-basting my Celtic Crystals quilt. He devised quite a system of clamps and boards to hold things in place and then, as I needed to move the quilt, he helped to reposition and reclamp everything. It all looked like it … Continue reading Down to the wire →
• A bit of this and that (2/28/2017) - Tuesday, February 28, 2017 My schedule was so new that yesterday I completely forgot about my “ukulele night” when I wrote my journal entry. I spent over an hour last night learning Swing Low Sweet Chariot; I learned to finger pick it and I learned a couple of alternate strumming patterns. Now if I could just … Continue reading A bit of this and that →
• A No-Sew Day (2/27/2017) - Monday, February 27, 2017 I didn’t plan to do any sewing today, but I planned to accomplish a lot more than I managed. It took me all morning to sort out the paperwork and prepare for the Cran Hall Board meeting on Wednesday. I also wanted to get the Guild reports and meeting prep done … Continue reading A No-Sew Day →
• Doing a happy dance (2/26/2017) - Sunday, February 26, 2017 Yesterday morning I ripped the paper templates off three sides of the Blossoms quilt, tied in all of the ends, and proceeded to trace out and pin my last ten templates. Since I had lots of time before my afternoon appointment I decided to get a start on the last border. … Continue reading Doing a happy dance →
• Another night out (2/24/2017) - Friday, February 24, 2017 I really didn’t plan to go out tonight. Someone booked the hall for a Cabaret-style show and she asked Pat to do sound for her. When Pat came home from the sound check he said she was really good and I might enjoy it. If I stayed home I think I … Continue reading Another night out →
• The Salish Orca came to town (2/23/2017) - Thursday, February 23, 2017 I spent most of the day yesterday quilting, with several trips downstairs to see our new ferry circle and pull into the terminal. The boat was open for tours for a few hours but we decided not to bother going down to the dock – we had an excellent view from … Continue reading The Salish Orca came to town →
• People are beating a path to our door (2/21/2017) - Tuesday, February 21, 2017 The movie theatre was the last place I expected to be last evening but you have to take advantage of the films when they are in town. Believe it or not we’ll be at the movies again tomorrow night for the start of the Cinematheque series. But before we got to … Continue reading People are beating a path to our door →
• Back to my regular schedule (2/19/2017) - Sunday, February 19, 2017 Who knew sitting in a theatre for an entire day could make a person so tired. I slept until almost ten this morning. I’ve spent my time today continuing the quilting on Blossoms. I have half of the motifs finished and, although it wasn’t what I originally planned to do, I’m … Continue reading Back to my regular schedule →
• Feels like Spring (2/17/2017) - Friday, February 17, 2017 I know I’ve said it before, but today really does seem like Spring. I had some Cranberry Hall business to take care of and the drop-off was just a five-minute walk away. Their business just happens to be a bit beyond the fabric shop so on the way home I stopped … Continue reading Feels like Spring →
• Party tonight (2/16/2017) - Thursday, February 16, 2017 I skipped the very first film of the Festival yesterday morning. There was very little information about it and the little I knew told me that it was a series of short films. It didn’t sound all that interesting so I chose to stay at home. I worked on a few … Continue reading Party tonight →
• Happy Family Day (2/13/2017) - Monday, February 13, 2017 I had big plans for today – make some calls on behalf of Cranberry Hall, go to the bank with a Cranberry Hall deposit, go to the Post Office for a US stamp, and pick up the groceries that were on our list. And then I realized that today was Family … Continue reading Happy Family Day →
• Ouch! (2/12/2017) - Sunday, February 12, 2017 The show last night was really good. I bid on a couple of items in the silent auction but didn’t win anything. The local meat shop were offering ten steaks and I thought we could always use those, and there was a return trip on the water taxi to Savary Island. I … Continue reading Ouch! →
• In and out (2/11/2017) - Saturday, February 11, 2017 I once worked with someone who was a food fanatic and one of his favourite chains was In-and-Out Burgers. In and out describes my day very well. The session on publishing e-books was rescheduled for this morning at the rec centre. All the roads are cleared but the parking lot, at … Continue reading In and out →
• Keep moving (2/10/2017) - Friday, February 10, 2017 I have to keep moving for two reasons – to stay awake and to keep my back from seizing up. It was a late night last night, after a very poorly attended concert. We took calls all day from folks who were either sick or snowed under. Only ten people out of … Continue reading Keep moving →
• Tea anyone? (2/9/2017) - Thursday, February 9, 2017   We haven’t had a House Concert since November so, in preparation for tonight’s show, we had to restock the tea chest. I found a new Stash tea called Breakfast in Paris – I couldn’t resist buying it even though the Twinings tea was a better price. We made a pot … Continue reading Tea anyone? →
• My blind date (2/8/2017) - Wednesday, February 8, 2017 Sure, I could talk about the weather and the fact that it is snowing AGAIN! Or I could talk about the shopping and cleaning I did today for tomorrow’s House Concert. Or I could mention that I got the binding, sleeve and label ready for my quilt. But this is more … Continue reading My blind date →
• Sunshine (2/7/2017) - Tuesday, February 7, 2017 No snow for a whole day! People are digging out driveways and clearing sidewalks. We were out this morning and the main roads are clear but side streets still looked pretty grim. In spite of all the snow I spotted some daffodils poking up in a pot beside the house; Pat … Continue reading Sunshine →
• Well that’s just crazy (2/6/2017) - Monday, February 6, 2017 There was more snow overnight and for most of the day today. I postponed my meet-up this morning because, with the frost overnight, I expected the roads to be slippery. Facebook was full of closures (shops, social gatherings, events) so I thought it best to stay at home. I would have … Continue reading Well that’s just crazy →
• It just keeps coming down (2/5/2017) - Sunday, February 5, 2017 I cannot believe the snow we are getting. Some folks are saying they haven’t seen this much snow in over 20 years. It has been melting today but it has also been snowing off and on most of the day. I cleared off the sidewalk this afternoon so the mailman could … Continue reading It just keeps coming down →
• Change of plans (2/4/2017) - Saturday, February 4, 2017 I planned to attend a seminar today about publishing your own eBook but, early this morning, it was postponed. The snow didn’t go away last night – in fact we had even more of it. It is melting now and big clumps are falling off the trees and the wires; there … Continue reading Change of plans →
• The view from here (2/3/2017) - Not what we want to see at any point during the winter, but we woke up to snow this morning. Pat knew it was coming but it was a complete surprise to me when I looked out the window. There is a lot of it out there; it had stopped for a while but I … Continue reading The view from here →
• I shouldn’t feel this relaxed (2/2/2017) - Thursday, February 2, 2017 I’ve got ten entries for the quilt show and, except for two of them, they all need some extra work. Of course they may not all be accepted but since there are just three large quilts, a couple of wall hangings and some miniatures there is a good chance they’ll all … Continue reading I shouldn’t feel this relaxed →
• Stacks (2/1/2017) - Wednesday, February 1, 2017 I have been working at getting my quilt show entry forms done. That meant finding the projects, getting sizes and copyright information for them, and assessing what extra needed to be done on them. This is the stack that is completely finished – sleeve on and label added. Actually I have a … Continue reading Stacks →
• All seasons (1/31/2017) - Tuesday, January 31, 2017 It felt like winter when I headed out for the bee this morning. I had to take time to scrape the frost off my back window – the sides and windshield were clear but I guess the back end of the car was unprotected and ended up being covered in frost. … Continue reading All seasons →
• Did the days just get longer? (1/30/2017) - Monday, January 30, 2017 I slept late this morning and started my day with some cross stitching. I haven’t caught up with my Facebook groups for a couple of weeks and I had a bit of back stitching I wanted to get done before I took photos. When I was posting to the groups I … Continue reading Did the days just get longer? →
• A Sunday-after-church kind of day (1/29/2017) - Sunday, January 29, 2017 I was sitting and cross stitching this afternoon and my mind wandered back to Sunday afternoons at home. After the rush of Sunday School, lunch, and then back to Church, I remember the quiet of a Sunday afternoon. I don’t know how I spent those afternoons, maybe reading or doing homework, … Continue reading A Sunday-after-church kind of day →
• Close call (1/28/2017) - Saturday, January 28, 2017 I was sitting upstairs this morning doing the last bit of quilting on my cards when it hit me. I had all the photos done yesterday but I had neglected to take a photo of my Blossoms quilt. I’ve planned since Day 1 to have that in the show and I … Continue reading Close call →
• A mixed up kind of day (1/27/2017) - Friday, January 27, 2017 I promised myself I’d get back to some cross stitching once my Celtic Crystal quilt top was finished. I did a bit last night and wanted to get more done today so I could add to my cross-Canada cross stitch challenge. I decided before I started that I would cut the … Continue reading A mixed up kind of day →
• Ready for my close-up (1/26/2017) - Thursday, January 26, 2017 Today should have been paperwork day but I really wanted to get my quilt top done. There were a few things I had to get done though before getting at the quilt; I paid some personal bills, I paid some bills for Cranberry Hall, I got a Cranberry Hall deposit ready … Continue reading Ready for my close-up →
• Happy (1/25/2017) - Wednesday, January 25, 2017 I came up to my studio this morning and my design wall made me very happy. Lovely to see a bunch of items nearing completion and enjoying their colours as they sit and wait. That was about the only bit of joy I had today. My border is going very, very … Continue reading Happy →
• A very productive day (1/24/2017) - Tuesday, January 24, 2017 I got the four corners for the next border on my Celtic Crystals quilt finished. I’m hoping to get the top finished tomorrow. I finished eight flying geese that were required for week 1 of my Wild Goose Wednesday project. The next clue will be out tomorrow. I took four cards with … Continue reading A very productive day →
• Cut (1/23/2017) - Monday, January 23, 2017 It was a late night last night (after midnight) so I’m dragging myself through the day today. We made just over $100 for the concession; I haven’t checked the records but I think this is very close to the amount that we brought in when we asked for donations rather than … Continue reading Cut →
• Done (1/22/2017) - Sunday, January 22, 2017 I finished my baking before lunch – Rice Krispie Treats and what was supposed to be a gluten-free cake. I had a mix in the cupboard and decided it might be nice to offer some gluten-free treats at the show tonight. I took my freshly washed mixing bowl and utensils from … Continue reading Done →
• Another short day (1/21/2017) - Saturday, January 21, 2017 I got a lot done today but it didn’t include much sewing. I slept a bit later than normal so didn’t get started on my baking until after ten. Today I was making Mum’s Lemon Loaf – one of Pat’s favourites. I often make two smaller loaves but decided to just … Continue reading Another short day →
• Not much sewing (1/20/2017) - Friday, January 20, 2017 There hasn’t been much sewing done in the past couple of days, but I’m making progress and I’m still on track for a finished top by early next week. Yesterday was paperwork and, because I’d done an entire day of it last week, I didn’t expect it would take long this … Continue reading Not much sewing →
• I love a day at home (1/18/2017) - Wednesday, January 18, 2017 I love having a day at home, and today was a day-long continuation of yesterday’s sewing bee. I have almost finished the borders for the centre medallion on my Celtic Crystals quilt and, hopefully, I will be ready to sew the individual blocks together tomorrow. That is if I have any … Continue reading I love a day at home →
• Almost there (1/17/2017) - Tuesday, January 17, 2017   As expected I took way more to do than I had time for at today’s bee. The blocks for the centre medallion of my quilt are finished but I didn’t have time to stitch the four of them together. This will be my sewing project for the week and I hope … Continue reading Almost there →
• Slow day (1/16/2017) - Monday, January 16, 2017 I’ve managed to get through most of the day with very little to show for it. I’m fighting a cold that so far is mainly a sore throat that threatens to turn into an ear ache. My nose runs profusely, but only occasionally, and I cough every now and again. Although … Continue reading Slow day →
• Challenges (1/15/2017) - Sunday, January 15, 2017 I’m involved in three challenges with the various cross stitch groups I belong to. One of the groups has a January to March challenge to stitch something cheerful, suggesting something with bright colours or a tropical feel. While my piece may not be as colourful as some I will be very … Continue reading Challenges →
• A little of this and that (1/14/2017) - Saturday, January 14, 2017 It took most of the morning to get the binding cut, pieced and attached to the quilt.  Why does it always take longer than you expect? I understand why some of the Guild members get their bindings cut and pieced along with their blocks. I’m seldom sure what size the quilt is … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• Finally (1/13/2017) - Friday, January 13, 2017 I didn’t think it would take long to finish the ruler quilting today, and I was right. The Cranberry Hall’s President was coming over at eleven for a quick meeting about the insurance for the Hall. I was almost finished by the time he got here, and had all the ruler … Continue reading Finally →
• A change (1/12/2017) - Thursday, January 12, 2017 I think I only have one more day of quilting left but Thursday has always been my day for paperwork so that’s where I started. This week I decided, as I climbed over and around boxes and bins, that whatever time was left in the day after paperwork on Thursdays would … Continue reading A change →
• Quilting the Michael Jackson way (1/11/2017) - Wednesday, January 11, 2017 I’m back at my ruler quilting; I hoped to be finished today but I don’t think that is going to happen. I am making progress though and I’m getting a bit quicker. There are still a few things I’m not happy with – actually more than a few – and I may … Continue reading Quilting the Michael Jackson way →
• Great iron (1/10/2017) - Tuesday, January 10, 2017 Last night I finished cutting the fabric for my next block in the Celtic Crystals series and I had everything packed up for the bee before I went to bed. During the night it struck me that I should take along my power bar as there are limited plugs at the … Continue reading Great iron →
• I need to make up my mind (1/9/2017) - Monday, January 9, 2017 I spent most of the morning getting packages ready for the mail, deposits ready for the bank, and patterns ready for a fabric swap. Tomorrow’s bee is at the clubhouse and I usually take hand stitching to work on. I had hoped to have my Community Quilt ready to bind but … Continue reading I need to make up my mind →
• A day off (1/8/2017) - Sunday, January 8, 2017 The plan was to get back to my quilting today but, as often happens, that didn’t work out. I didn’t bake the cookies yesterday so that was first on my list this morning. I made a double batch so I’d have some for the concession later this month; I also volunteered treats … Continue reading A day off →
• I maybe should have practiced more (1/7/2017) - Saturday, January 7, 2017 It took all of last evening and most of the morning to tie in and bury all my threads from yesterday’s quilting. I was anxious to get at the next step but, since there is a Song Circle tomorrow, I had some baking to get done; I wanted to make a batch of … Continue reading I maybe should have practiced more →
• Slow going (1/6/2017) - Friday, January 6, 2017 It seemed like yesterday’s quilting went very quickly so I had big plans for today. I have just now finished the stabilizing straight-line quilting and I have a massive amount of ends to knot and tie in. I tried several different ways to do the straight lines that wouldn’t result in … Continue reading Slow going →
• It’s a start (1/5/2017) - Thursday, January 5, 2017 How is it that I’m the only one who came away from the Cranberry Hall board meeting with a list of things to do? My list isn’t long but I decided not to do it today as I’m likely to get another list of things to do at the Guild meeting … Continue reading It’s a start →
• Paper, paper, paper and more paper (1/4/2017) - Wednesday, January 4, 2017 It’s been awhile since I spent any amount of time on my paperwork. I have a Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight and a Guild meeting tomorrow night so it was time. Once the reports for the meetings were done I caught up on Pat’s accounting and then started my own paperwork. I … Continue reading Paper, paper, paper and more paper →
• It is good to be back (1/3/2017) - Tuesday, January 3, 2017 It was so good to be back at my machine at the bee today. I’ve missed a few, and last week was a bit of a sewing disaster! Our friends still had my car because they were stuck on the Island when the ferry didn’t run on Boxing Day. Pat was going to … Continue reading It is good to be back →
• It’s been a busy day (1/2/2017) - January 2, 2017 After almost two weeks of doing next to nothing it was a shock to the system to actually wake up and plan to do a bit of work. I’ve accomplished a lot too; I’m on my third cup of coffee for the day so that may be part of the reason for my … Continue reading It’s been a busy day →
• Happy New Year (1/1/2017) - January 1, 2017
• A look back and forward (12/31/2016) - December 31, 2016 How did you do on your resolutions for 2016? Did you make any for 2017? Books I wanted to read twelve books from our personal library shelf this year. Somewhere during the middle of the year I stopped keeping track of where the books that I read were picked from. Goodreads says … Continue reading A look back and forward →
• Merry Christmas (12/24/2016) - December 24, 2016 Merry Christmas Everyone!  
• I’m not going to make it (12/23/2016) - December 23, 2016 I’m not going to be able to finish my clean up and re-arranging before Christmas. At one point today I was close, but Pat came upstairs to see how things were going and offered a few suggestions on some changes. They were good ones so, in a large part, I started over. The … Continue reading I’m not going to make it →
• Another surface cleared (12/22/2016) - Thursday, December 22, 2016 I cleared off another surface today. It is a challenge to clear these surfaces without just cluttering up something I’ve already cleared but I more or less manage. There is just one more surface to go before I can re-arrange the furniture; I’d like to get that all done before Christmas. … Continue reading Another surface cleared →
• Back to work (12/21/2016) - Wednesday, December 21, 2016 It was back to work today, but I have managed to avoid cleaning for yet another day! I did Pat’s accounting and got the files sent off to the accountant this afternoon. It takes time to go through everything but it is easier now that he isn’t working as much. There … Continue reading Back to work →
• Cutting my losses (12/20/2016) - Tuesday, December 20, 2016 I finished up the crochet part of my basket last night before dinner – and then decided to pitch the whole thing! I had already ripped it apart twice and the bottom wasn’t stitching together well with the sides so I decided not to waste any more time on it. The … Continue reading Cutting my losses →
• No mouse this year (12/19/2016) - Monday, December 19, 2016 I went back out to the shed in search of my Christmas mouse but again the boxes and tools atop the chest defeated me. I’ll have to wait until summer when I can shift everything outside and try to place the second trunk of Christmas “things” in an easier-to-get-at location. But … Continue reading No mouse this year →
• Cleaning and scrubbing can wait ’til tomorrow (12/18/2016) - Sunday, December 18, 2016 While Pat went on a grocery run this morning I went down to the shed to pull out our Christmas tree and decorations. I had to move some tools and boxes to get at the tree and the ornaments; the other trunk of Christmas decorations was buried too deep to access. … Continue reading Cleaning and scrubbing can wait ’til tomorrow →
• Another corner done (12/17/2016) - Saturday, December 17, 2016 It may be Saturday by the calendar but it feels very much like a Sunday to me. Perhaps that’s because we are headed to the Coffee House at Cranberry Hall tonight. The coffee house is generally held on the last Sunday of the month but that falls on Christmas; it’s on … Continue reading Another corner done →
• Carrying on (12/16/2016) - Friday, December 16, 2016 I noticed during my Christmas sewing that I changed threads more often because my new thread holder was sitting in front of me and I realized I had lots of threads that would perfectly match what I was sewing. With that in mind I decided I wanted my thread holder close … Continue reading Carrying on →
• The lesser mess (12/15/2016) - Thursday, December 15, 2016 Between an appointment at the bank this morning and the Guild party this afternoon I managed to make a little progress on my cleaning. I picked the room that I thought would take the least amount of work, but I’m not telling how much from this room moved across the hall to … Continue reading The lesser mess →
• Just one more (12/14/2016) - Wednesday, December 14, 2016 I thought I was all finished my Christmas presents but when my latest knitting project neared completion I decided to do just one more package. I dropped it off at the post office this afternoon, after spending a very leisurely morning watching some Netflix and finishing the project. This afternoon the Library’s Memoir … Continue reading Just one more →
• What a waste (12/13/2016) - Tuesday, December 13, 2016 I was out to the bee first thing this morning. I haven’t been for awhile and even though I really didn’t have anything to work on I was looking forward to it. I had some books to look through (the new techniques I want to learn) but at the last minute … Continue reading What a waste →
• Nothing planned, nothing accomplished (12/12/2016) - Monday, December 12, 2016 I thought what with having all my Christmas “stuff” finished I might be able sleep in a bit this morning. I guess I’m just wired to wake up early. I was awake at my usual time (7:00 AM) but decided to stay in bed awhile longer. I got up about eight, wandered … Continue reading Nothing planned, nothing accomplished →
• Now what? (12/11/2016) - Sunday, December 11, 2016 This morning as I finished the binding on my cards I pondered what I would do next. Of course I had to make the envelopes for the cards but that would take an hour at most. Would I spend the rest of the day reading? Would I knit and catch up … Continue reading Now what? →
• Almost (12/10/2016) - Saturday, December 10, 2016 I had a productive day yesterday and finished my card tops with the exception of a half dozen seams that I stitched this morning. Today was all about quilting and getting the binding on them. They are all ready for me to do the hand stitching on this evening; by Monday … Continue reading Almost →
• Making and wrapping (12/8/2016) - Thursday, December 8, 2016 I did a little making and a little wrapping today and there is no contest – I like making a whole lot better than wrapping. I finished a project last evening and decided there was time for one more quick thing this morning. I did a search for a pattern and found … Continue reading Making and wrapping →
• Ice day (12/6/2016) - Tuesday, December 6, 2016 I woke up this morning to the sound of sand and salt trucks going up and down the hill so I decided not to venture out to the bee. I get a lot more stitching done at home than I do at the bee, and I need to keep making progress. I … Continue reading Ice day →
• A new technique and progress (12/5/2016) - Monday, December 5, 2016 It has been snowing for most of the day but I think it has stopped now. There is some accumulation on the roofs and grass, but the streets look fine. I guess if the temperature drops low enough they could get icy but I didn’t have anywhere to go today so … Continue reading A new technique and progress →
• Oh what a day! (12/4/2016) - Sunday, December 4, 2016 We had such a good time at The Dickens Banquet last night – good food, good friends – and we won the trivia contest! There were a few questions we weren’t sure of the answer to but between the bunch of us we came to the right decisions. How many reindeer in … Continue reading Oh what a day! →
• Let the season begin (12/3/2016) - Saturday, December 3, 2016 I finished my last December birthday card yesterday so today I’ve moved on to Christmas projects. While I was working on my cards I turned on some Christmas music but it was annoying me; I think it made me feel like I was already behind and should be well into my … Continue reading Let the season begin →
• Another day (12/1/2016) - Thursday, December 1, 2016 Another day – just like yesterday! I’m not complaining, and I’m not even bored. I had some work to do this morning as a result of our board meeting last night so I got right to it. When that was done I did my prep for the Guild meeting tonight. It … Continue reading Another day →
• What a great day (11/30/2016) - Wednesday, November 30, 2016 I’m doing what I ought to be doing on a Wednesday – working on my cards. But before starting that I had to do some work for my Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight. I had some time last night to get a start on it so there wasn’t too much left … Continue reading What a great day →
• Back in the groove (11/29/2016) - Tuesday, November 29, 2016 I did a bit of paperwork yesterday afternoon but I was itching to get back to some sewing so I started a birthday card that is due very soon. The pattern involved half-square triangles that were then to be sewn together to make quarter-square triangles. I’ve done it before but I clearly … Continue reading Back in the groove →
• Bad Grandma (11/28/2016) - Monday, November 28, 2016 What a day! Nothing, and I mean nothing, has gone according to the plan. The plan was to mail my parcels, cut fabric for cards for tomorrow’s bee, and then work on finishing up some Christmas things I last saw at the Texada Retreat. We were up early. Pat starts teaching … Continue reading Bad Grandma →
• Ready for the mail (11/27/2016) - Sunday, November 27, 2016 The advent parcels are wrapped and ready for the post office tomorrow. And I only left out one item; after finishing up in my “wrapping” room I walked into my “sorting” room and noticed I had neglected to put the gift bag into Christy’s parcel. But I’m not going to rewrap … Continue reading Ready for the mail →
• I’ve been good – to myself! (11/26/2016) - Saturday, November 26, 2016 Since returning from Houston I have been very good about not making any purchases or downloading free patterns to add to my never-ending collection. I was out in search of some red ribbon yesterday so I stopped by Crazy Quilt Cottage to see if they had any. To be honest, I … Continue reading I’ve been good – to myself! →
• Can you hear my sigh of relief? (11/25/2016) - Friday, November 25, 2016 I’m finished; I’m done; I’ve already packed it in a tin! I finished the Advent Calendar this afternoon. I didn’t get all the buttons sewn on yesterday so I started with those this morning. I thought I was going to have to cover the corners with buttons (a couple were a bit … Continue reading Can you hear my sigh of relief? →
• Let there be light (11/24/2016) - Thursday, November 24, 2016 Last night’s performer, Patrick Alexandre, was definitely the best of the season and, in my opinion, he was the best we’ve had in a long time. We didn’t have the full house we expected because not everyone on the list showed up. We added one extra chair late in the day … Continue reading Let there be light →
• Charmed (11/22/2016) - Tuesday, November 22, 2016 Done! Well at least the charms are finished. I did a test to see how the process of attaching the charms to the centre will work and it seems simple enough. Lots of buttons to sew on, lots of cutting to do around the charms, and lots of tassels to add to the … Continue reading Charmed →
• The home stretch (11/21/2016) - Monday, November 21, 2016 Cleaning out the laundry room went much quicker this morning than I expected; well maybe it wasn’t quicker but I had an early start on it (about 8:00 AM) so it didn’t take too much time away from my stitching. My car trunk is full of bottles to be returned, recycling … Continue reading The home stretch →
• Just as I thought (11/20/2016) - Sunday, November 20, 2016 The class yesterday was very informative. The instructor is one of the best quilters in the Guild and, in addition to the technique we were there to learn, she gave us lots of other tips and tricks. The class was about invisible machine appliqué; appliqué isn’t my favourite “thing” and I … Continue reading Just as I thought →
• Seriously? (11/18/2016) - Friday, November 18, 2016 As I was busy reading my book, The Dressmaker, it occurred to me that the story wasn’t aligning very well with the movie trailers we had seen. I purposely borrowed the book because the movie was coming and I wanted to read the book before we saw the movie. As it … Continue reading Seriously? →
• On track (11/17/2016) - Thursday, November 17, 2016 It took until about 10:30 this morning, but I finished up yesterday’s quota of reading and charms! Instead of making my a puzzle on my iPad while I had coffee this morning I read several pages of my book. I have no doubt that I will get it finished and back to … Continue reading On track →
• By the numbers (11/16/2016) - Wednesday, November 16, 2016 With a few deadlines looming I decided I’d better set out some clear goals for the next week or so. I have a library book due in a couple of days. Last night, when I couldn’t renew my book, I figured I needed to read 100 pages a day to get … Continue reading By the numbers →
• Amazing (11/15/2016) - Tuesday, November 15, 2016 I had a good day at the bee. I was in charge of opening up for everyone so I arrived early and had all the tables set up before anyone else came along. Our usual door opener was off to the Island today; I was nervous about the alarm system but … Continue reading Amazing →
• Doing a happy dance (11/14/2016) - Monday, November 14, 2016 I had a great weekend on Texada – good friends, good food, and lots of stitching. On the 40 minute ferry ride over to Texada we watched a couple of hump back whales as they were making their way south, perhaps to Hawaii. They were huge! I’ve seen Orcas quite a … Continue reading Doing a happy dance →
• Packing – Again! (11/10/2016) - Thursday, November 10, 2016 It’s time to pack another suitcase; I’m off to Texada Island for the Guild’s fall retreat. I spent a lot of time this past week choosing and cutting fabric for my projects. I think the only way any Christmas gifts are going to be made is if I do them this … Continue reading Packing – Again! →
• Houston revisited (11/9/2016) - Wednesday, November 9, 2016 It has taken a few days to get back into the routine of “life after the show”. It was a wonderful few days spent with Stacia and Deloise; we could have enjoyed our visit anywhere but the fact that it happened at an International Quilt Show made it so much better. … Continue reading Houston revisited →
• Time to pack (10/31/2016) - Monday, October 31, 2016 I had a bit of work to do in the office this morning, and then I had several errands to run. It is amazing how much time a few stops take; it was noon before I arrived home. I stopped at the dollar store for some goodies for the girl next … Continue reading Time to pack →
• An almost free day (10/26/2016) - Wednesday, October 26, 2016 We had a full house for our concert last night. We try to limit our numbers to 30 but one or two regulars were added to the list at the last minute. When we set up our chairs we were at 32 so still not too bad. As the time for … Continue reading An almost free day →
• What a difference (10/28/2016) - Friday, October 28, 2016 It feels like I’ve been backstitching on this project for weeks, and I still have weeks left to do before it is finished. If it didn’t make such a dramatic difference I’d be tempted to skip it.
• My kind of day (10/27/2016) - Thursday, October 27, 2016 Last night’s board meeting went well but I came home with another task; I volunteered to serve at the concession for the Coffee House on Sunday night. I knew I had “stuff” in my freezer so I didn’t think it would be too onerous, but I forgot I would be out … Continue reading My kind of day →
• Almost ready (10/24/2016) - Monday, October 24, 2016 I’m almost ready for our concert tomorrow night. We have a Sold Out show, with a waiting list, so I’m happy about that. I started my laundry this morning while I got some packages ready for the mail. I intended to have my Hallowe’en treats in the mail much sooner but the … Continue reading Almost ready →
• Basket Weaving – Harder than you might think! (10/23/2016) - Sunday, October 23, 2016 For my birthday Pat enrolled me in a Cedar Basket making class; I spent the past two days in the workshop and completed my first basket. Traditionally you are supposed to give your first basket away but mine won’t go far as I’ve given it back to Pat. I always appreciated … Continue reading Basket Weaving – Harder than you might think! →
• Another busy day (10/20/2016) - Thursday, October 20, 2016 Last night’s event was frustrating and annoying! It didn’t help that I was already tired before heading out in the rain for my embroidery workshop. I wasn’t familiar with the location but when I Googled the address I realized it wasn’t going to be hard to find. Carola and I set … Continue reading Another busy day →
• What is wrong with those Americans? (10/19/2016) - Wednesday, October 19, 2016 We had a great concert last night. Both Mary (Flower) and Nathan (Tinkham) had been here before; Mary for our very first House Concert and Nathan came with Cindy Church for a Cranberry Hall concert. It was like having “old friends” join us and they were both very appreciative of our … Continue reading What is wrong with those Americans? →
• Can I offer you a treat? (10/18/2016) - Tuesday, October 18, 2016 Often the Friends of the Library group work the concession at Cranberry Hall. This morning the husband of one of the people who usually work for them asked for a ticket to Mary’s show “because my wife is working the concession”. I asked Pat several times over the last few weeks … Continue reading Can I offer you a treat? →
• I’m going to call it even (10/17/2016) - Monday, October 17, 2016 It was a small crowd at the Song Circle yesterday but, while the songs were sung, I did some knitting. I have to keep the coffee fresh and the water hot for tea, although I think everyone was drinking coffee yesterday. The treats were appreciated, and I had some left to bring … Continue reading I’m going to call it even →
• Two days in one (10/16/2016) - Sunday, October 16, 2016 About the time I was going to write my Journal last night the lights went out. I’ll be tied up with the Song Circle until dinner time so I’ll do today’s post early and yesterday’s late. I started my day yesterday at the grocery store. I had a small list of … Continue reading Two days in one →
• I needed this (10/14/2016) - Friday, October 14, 2016 I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and stressed since we got home from Portland and I’ve been having trouble sleeping. There is no good reason for me to be overwhelmed and stressed; as they say I am allowing myself to feel that way but they never actually tell you how to stop. So … Continue reading I needed this →
• Batten down the hatches (10/12/2016) - Wednesday, October 12, 2016 It’s been awhile and I’ve been busy, mainly with Cranberry Hall and Guild work. I spent most of the day on Thursday working to get my Guild business ready for the meeting that night. The evening included the regular business meeting as well as a quilt show meeting so there was … Continue reading Batten down the hatches →
• Portland – Part 2 (10/7/2016) - Friday, October 7, 2016 After leaving Fabric Depot we headed to Menucha and their Blues in the Gorge program. It was a lovely sunny day and, although the drive to the facilities wasn’t long, we took our time and drove along the Historic Columbia River Highway. We passed a number of large waterfalls but the one … Continue reading Portland – Part 2 →
• Portland – Part 1 (10/6/2016) - Thursday, October 6, 2016 I promised to update you today on our Portland trip but Part 1 will only include my trip to Fabric Depot – a vacation all on its own! Before we left for Portland some of the Guild members who had been there told me Fabric Depot was like Costco only full … Continue reading Portland – Part 1 →
• Back to work (10/5/2016) - Wednesday, October 5, 2016 We arrived home last night just at supper time – it was a long drive all the way up from Portland but we (meaning Pat) timed it so we missed most of the rush hour traffic. Most of the major cities had HOV lanes which we took advantage of. I unpacked … Continue reading Back to work →
• Long night and a wasted day (9/26/2016) - The concert last night was good and I really enjoyed the performers. They napped most of the afternoon (Kayla suffers from motion sickness and the ferry did her in) so I had time to hem a pair of pants that had been “on my pile” for a few weeks (okay, I’ll be truthful – it … Continue reading Long night and a wasted day →
• I know where they sleep (9/24/2016) - Saturday, September 24, 2016 I’m tired – my back and feet hurt from standing most of the day while I baked and cleaned. I am surprisingly calm though for the amount of jobs left to do and the relatively short time I have to do them in. Maybe after five years I’ve got it cased, … Continue reading I know where they sleep →
• Finish it up Friday – and a start (9/23/2016) - Friday, September 23, 2016 I didn’t expect to have time in my craft room today but my cleaning went a bit faster than I expected. I guess doing a bit of cleaning on all my free days really does help. There is still some work to do but if I finish the cleaning too early … Continue reading Finish it up Friday – and a start →
• The day is gone (9/22/2016) - Thursday, September 22, 2016 Where did the day go? Paperwork all morning and a good part of the afternoon; coffee at Carola’s in the late afternoon and now the day is over. Hallowe’en came up on my card list so I packaged another little cross stitch project to take with me on our trip. With … Continue reading The day is gone →
• Thank you (9/21/2016) - September 21, 2016 Thank you for all your good wishes for my birthday yesterday. A week ago Pat asked me what I wanted to do for my birthday; Tuesdays are generally my day for sewing but I said if it was nice I’d like to go for a drive. That could be taken as not … Continue reading Thank you →
• Prepping and packing (9/19/2016) - Monday, September 19, 2016 I started my day (again) at Cranberry Hall. One of the groups left a payment in our mailbox last evening and, since we don’t have a lock on the box from the inside, I wanted to get to it right away. I had two other deposits to make at the bank … Continue reading Prepping and packing →
• I’m not sure (9/18/2016) - Sunday, September 18, 2016 I worked on my Blossoms quilt today. I’m not sure I’m happy with it. I like the offset blossom blocks because it hides the fact that some of the blossoms aren’t perfectly centred in the background. But that meant there is an extra patterned piece in the border that is next … Continue reading I’m not sure →
• An easy decision (9/17/2016) - Saturday, September 17, 2016 It was pouring rain this morning so I had no desire to attend the Fall Fair. The grounds are pretty shaded and the rain wouldn’t soak in very well so not only would it be wet coming down on you it would be messy sloshing through the grounds. It was an … Continue reading An easy decision →
• Finish it up Friday – with a twist (9/16/2016) - Friday, September 16, 2016 All week I intended to start quilting one of my donation quilts; I was looking forward to trying some Sashiko quilting on some of the blocks. But this is going to be a busy weekend (Fall Fair, a workshop and concert, and the Terry Fox Run) so I decided I’d finish … Continue reading Finish it up Friday – with a twist →
• Congratulations Sawyer (9/15/2016) - September 15, 2016   Sawyer takes possession of his new home today. It’s a tricky business getting a card sent for a specific date in the future but not getting it in the mail too early. So, as a compromise, I’m posting the card that is due today but it won’t go into the mail until … Continue reading Congratulations Sawyer →
• Party time (9/15/2016) - Thursday, September 15, 2016 I thought today was going to be an easy day – boy was I wrong! I started my morning with grocery shopping. I have a Guild potluck tonight; I’m taking Deloise’s Corn, Black Bean and Mango salad and I required a few ingredients. I went to Quality Foods because I know … Continue reading Party time →
• I’m trying something new (9/14/2016) - Wednesday, September 14, 2016 Although today was a card day I had a bit of paperwork to gather together for the Cranberry Hall board meeting tonight. The accounting work was done and my reports were printed but I needed to spend some to organizing my thoughts and making notes about questions I need to ask. Once that … Continue reading I’m trying something new →
• My favourite day of the week (9/13/2016) - Tuesday, September 13, 2016 Ukulele Club worked out fine last night. We played songs that were familiar from last year and they were the ones I practiced (for the bit of time I did any practicing). It has made me want to get back into it and we are going to start working on some Christmas … Continue reading My favourite day of the week →
• A wasted day? (9/12/2016) - Monday, September 12, 2016 A wasted day? I think not. Yesterday was all about The Song Circle. I had a lazy morning and when I was almost running out of time I went out for concession treats. Everything at the song circle is by donation so we really don’t make any money. I was going … Continue reading A wasted day? →
• A messy day (9/10/2016) - Saturday, September 10, 2014 I received word yesterday that the flight I was booked on from Houston to Calgary had been changed and the new flight they booked me on didn’t work for the two other flights I had that day. I spent a lot of time trying for figure out options that would cost … Continue reading A messy day →
• Making headway (9/8/2016) - Thursday, September 8, 2016 I’ve spent all day at my computer and for the first time in a long time I feel like I’m getting somewhere with the Cranberry Hall accounts. I started by making a new set of files – ones that I know what the titles mean and where everything is stored in … Continue reading Making headway →
• Taking shelter from the rain (9/7/2016) - Wednesday, September 7, 2016 Today was card day and to start things off I got two cards ready for the mail and another one wrapped, along with a present, for personal delivery. One card didn’t actually need to be mail until tomorrow but the other one was late so they both went out today. I … Continue reading Taking shelter from the rain →
• A bee is the best cure for the blues (9/6/2016) - Tuesday, September 6, 2016 I was back with the Guild today and who can be blue with the laughter that goes on at the bee.     My single accomplishment was one more Celtic Crystal block but I’ve resigned myself to the fact that this isn’t going to be a fast finish.  
• Bummed out (9/5/2016) - Monday, September 5, 2016 I’m not feeling much joy today – I’m not sure if I’m depressed or if the stormy weather has me fearing summer is over. Whatever the reason I’m not accomplishing a whole lot and I don’t really care. I didn’t do any prepping for the bee tomorrow. I think we have … Continue reading Bummed out →
• Blossoms and Good Music (9/4/2016) - Sunday, September 4, 2016 When we left for the Sunshine Music Festival yesterday morning I was thinking, “I know there will be music but will there be sunshine?”. I dressed warmly with long pants and long sleeves with a sweater and blanket for the evening; the sun shone most of the day but I was only … Continue reading Blossoms and Good Music →
• An actual finish (well almost) (9/2/2016) - Friday, September 2, 2016 As a finish-it-up Friday project I pulled out the colour wheel I pieced when we were in France. I thought it was ready for quilting but realized I needed to do some appliqué stitching on it first. Once that was done I took it downstairs to the kitchen island to sandwich … Continue reading An actual finish (well almost) →
• I think I’m ready (9/1/2016) - Tuesday, September 1, 2016 How can it be September already? Although, if I look out my window, I might guess it was January; it has been cloudy and showery all week but today we actually have rain. It won’t be a very nice weekend for the music festival and I’m a fair weather fan so … Continue reading I think I’m ready →
• A couple of misses (8/31/2016) - Wednesday, August 31, 2016 I really wanted to get my stack of cards finished today but I didn’t manage it. I have a stack of hand stitching to do, two tops done and another top that I didn’t even get started. I’m not sure why I didn’t get them all done, but I do know … Continue reading A couple of misses →
• I’ve accepted the fact (8/30/2016) - Tuesday, August 30, 2016 I thought about my placemat last night and before I left for the bee today I pulled another fabric to use for the borders. Had I left it as it was last week the placemat would have been square (a small square) rather than a rectangle and I wasn’t happy with that. … Continue reading I’ve accepted the fact →
• Prepped and ready (8/29/2016) - Monday, August 29, 2016 I had some cards to get ready for the mail first thing this morning. When I looked at the calendar I’m not sure why I didn’t send them sooner because they may arrive late. In fact very late if the rumours of a postal strike are true. I didn’t go to … Continue reading Prepped and ready →
• What happened to summer? (8/28/2016) - Sunday, August 28, 2016 It was cloudy and windy yesterday but we woke up this morning to more wind and … rain! Pat checked the forecast and it is to be rainy all week. Although I don’t like the hot weather I’m not ready for fall yet. Hopefully this is just a glitch and we’ll … Continue reading What happened to summer? →
• Keeping my eye on the ball (8/27/2016) - Saturday, August 27, 2016 I came upstairs to my studio just in time for the live feed (from Montenegro) of Brody’s water polo match. Sadly Canada didn’t come out winners but there is another game tomorrow and, if I did the time change right, I’ll be able to watch it as well. The stands from the camera … Continue reading Keeping my eye on the ball →
• Finish It Up Friday (8/26/2016) - Friday, August 26, 2016   Although I didn’t finish a thing today I’m very happy with my day. I started by emptying my bin onto my table to see what I had to work with; I’m ending the day with five projects ready for quilting, and two more that just need a bit of finishing before they … Continue reading Finish It Up Friday →
• Finally … done (8/25/2016) - Thursday, August 25, 2016 Today was my “office day” and it has taken me nearly all day to accomplish it. My own paper work took very little time and I just might have made some time to order a new cross stitch pattern for myself! I was happy with the pattern I picked for my … Continue reading Finally … done →
• This was a productive day (8/24/2016) - Wednesday, August 24, 2016 I made great progress on my cards today. I have four done; two of them are quilted and just need binding added. It certainly helped to have four patterns printed and fabric chosen. I may be on to something with this prep day. I’m still not done September cards though so … Continue reading This was a productive day →
• Things didn’t go as planned (8/23/2016) - Tuesday, August 23, 2016 Remember last week when I mused that because I had all the fabric cut I might be able to get four Celtic Crystal blocks done today. Well that didn’t happen. It was past lunch before I finished my first block. I knew there wouldn’t be time to finish another one (unless … Continue reading Things didn’t go as planned →
• Set for the week (8/22/2016) - Monday, August 22, 2016 Today was a prep day and I’ve got enough kits put together to last me several weeks. I packed my Best Press so I’m set to go with my Celtic Crystals tomorrow. I also kitted up another placemat that will be a quick finish. Wednesday is for cards and I have four … Continue reading Set for the week →
• Does it make me less Canadian? (8/21/2016) - Sunday, August 21, 2016 Pat and I watched the Tragically Hip concert last night. I, of course, had heard of the Tragically Hip but wasn’t very aware of their music. Maybe they were becoming famous in what Diane and I called our “lost years” when we relied on CBC for music and if it didn’t involve … Continue reading Does it make me less Canadian? →
• What’s more exciting than fireworks? (8/20/2016) - Saturday, August 20, 2016 As we were sitting outside last night waiting for the fireworks to start we watched all the folks walking up and down the hill going to or from the Street Party. At one point I heard someone yell “Bear”; I managed to catch just a glimpse of the bear as it … Continue reading What’s more exciting than fireworks? →
• Finish it up Friday (8/19/2016) - Friday, August 19, 2016 One of the quilting blogs I read posted a quilting project planner yesterday. It basically has columns for all your quilting projects with a checklist to say at what state they are at – fabric selected, cut, pieced, quilted, and bound. I have a bin full of almost-done quilts and as … Continue reading Finish it up Friday →
• It hasn’t been all bad (8/18/2016) - Thursday, August 18, 2016 Today was my day for paperwork. It took about half an hour to take care of my e-mail, in basket and filing; it took me the better part of two hours to deal with Cranberry Hall paper. I’m frustrated by the lack of documentation I receive and the timeliness of when … Continue reading It hasn’t been all bad →
• How many board members does it take to change a lightbulb? (8/17/2016) - August 17, 2016 One of the papers that came in my Cranberry Hall stuff yesterday was a note that there was a lightbulb that needed to be changed – Board Member #1 accepted the note and passed the message along by e-mail. The President (Board Member #2) who usually takes care of maintenance notified everyone that he … Continue reading How many board members does it take to change a lightbulb? →
• Not exactly what I had planned (8/16/2016) - Tuesday, August 16, 2016 Today I wanted to get a couple of seams done on a new placemat project and then move on to my Celtic Crystals blocks. Before I even had my first cup of coffee though I was called into a Hands Across the Water meeting. I didn’t have anything to report other than … Continue reading Not exactly what I had planned →
• Ahead in the game? (8/15/2016) - Monday, August 15, 2016 The morning didn’t go quite as I had planned so my afternoon was a bit out of whack as well. Good thing I don’t do anything very important with my days. I wanted to get my apple pie in the oven before the morning got too hot. It was lovely sitting … Continue reading Ahead in the game? →
• So much to do (8/14/2016) - Sunday, August 14, 2016 I had so much I wanted to do today and I’ve touched on nearly all of it. I started appliquéing the flowers on my Blossom quilt this morning. Before starting though I thought I’d better give my machine a good cleaning; once that was done I oiled it and changed the needle. … Continue reading So much to do →
• Annual sale (8/13/2016) - Saturday, August 13, 2016 I’m often tempted by garage sales but I resist the urge and stay at home. We don’t need anything and I’d probably come home with things that would collect dust and then find their way to the Economy Shop within a few months. Every now and again though we take a … Continue reading Annual sale →
• Recovering (8/12/2016) - Friday, August 12, 2016 I was sick during the night on Wednesday and spent almost all day Thursday in bed. I didn’t feel cold, but I was shaking uncontrollably and eventually ended up vomiting. This isn’t the first such attack I’ve had – the others we blamed on hot dogs and I’ve since given them … Continue reading Recovering →
• Cranberries and cards (8/10/2016) - Wednesday, August 10, 2016 It was my plan to work on some cards today and, for the most part, that is what I did. I didn’t make as much progress and I would have liked for a couple of reasons. The board members at Cranberry Hall seem to be dropping like flies. In the meantime … Continue reading Cranberries and cards →
• That felt good (8/9/2016) - Tuesday, August 9, 2016 It was great to catch up with everyone at the bee today. I took a couple of projects but only had time for one; I had forgotten that today was a regularly scheduled Mini Meez meeting. I haven’t even thought about a mini since about April but I’ll try to do better … Continue reading That felt good →
• Prep day (8/8/2016) - Monday, August 8, 2016 I was in my studio early this morning. I opened the windows to get a breeze going through and the first thing I heard was a loon’s call. I remember the first time we heard a loon when we were coming to Powell River on weekends  – we thought it couldn’t … Continue reading Prep day →
• Home again (8/7/2016) - Sunday, August 7, 2016 I’m home again from a great two weeks with Christy, Rick, Dylan and Taylor. I was there to help look after the kids, and it felt like a fun holiday for me; the time went really fast but we kept busy doing something fun almost every day. Since I planned to be … Continue reading Home again →
• Getting ready (7/23/2016) - Saturday, July 23, 2016 It was a sewing day for me and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. I finished two more blocks in my Farmer’s Wife sampler; I did a count thinking I was almost there but, sadly, I’ve still got about 30 more blocks to go. These last blocks are a bit harder; … Continue reading Getting ready →
• Keep calm – and do it all again (7/22/2016) - July 22, 2016 Since I’ve cut down on my quilting days I’ve decided that on those days I will quilt and not do any of the other “stuff” I cram into my days. I wanted to make Friday one of my quilt days but we had an appointment at the bank this morning and I still … Continue reading Keep calm – and do it all again →
• I really have to stop (7/21/2016) - Thursday, July 21, 2016 While Stacia and I were at the lake we discussed the various quilting projects we have. Stacia doesn’t purchase fabrics unless they are for something specific; me, not so much. Stacia generally works on one project until it is finished; me, not so much. But I do realize I have far … Continue reading I really have to stop →
• A little of this and that (7/20/2016) - Wednesday, July 20, 2016 I planned to catch up on my cleaning today but I received an e-mail this morning from someone I had been trying to track down since my return home so I had to take care of a bit of Cranberry Hall business. I scrubbed out the bathrooms and I managed to … Continue reading A little of this and that →
• Back to it (7/19/2016) - Tuesday, July 19, 2016 I skipped my Tuesday bee today but I did, finally, get at some sewing. I’ve got cards that need to be mailed either before I leave on the weekend or while I am gone. I had a couple of tops pre-made but I finished up two more today. I’m so happy … Continue reading Back to it →
• Getting back on track (7/18/2016) - Monday, July 18, 2016 It’s been ages since I did an update. Part of my reasoning for doing the journal was so I had a way to keep track of what I was up to – at some point I may want to read back and see if I ever accomplished anything. Today might not … Continue reading Getting back on track →