Not quite an adventure

Yours was an adventure.  Not one I would like to deal with, but an adventure none the less. I imagine that the porcupine died?

We had a very lazy morning.  I was still in my nightie, and starting to get ready to go to my ATC Luncheon, when I suddenly realized that it was just after 12:00, and I was supposed to be out in Selkirk between 10:00 and 12:00 to pick up my piece from the exhibition that closed yesterday. A call to the Gallery indicated that someone was there but he could only promise to be there an hour longer. We both jumped into the car and headed out, only to run into unexpected construction delays.  We knew about the construction, as it's been there for a couple of years, but what we didn't anticipate was the heavy highway traffic.  Neither  of us could figure out why, but where the highway cut down to one lane instead of two, the back-up in both lanes was close to half a mile.

The piece is safely home, but needless to say I didn't make my luncheon.

Almost too hot to do anything.  Given all of the blood thinners he takes, David is cold all the time, and felt just pleasant today.  I, however, really feel the heat, and spent most of the day in the basement.  Th peonies in the house are holding up nicely, and should be around for another day, but in the heat and sun, blooms outside barely last one day. To sleep tonight I have a fan directed to where I usually lie on the bed--just that.  So I'm, delaying bed for as long as I can

Not a happy adventure...

What a terrible thing to happen and the dogs are so vulnerable and unable to help - but just yelp! Thank goodness for those neighbours - they have always been very helpful to you. And Rodney always seems to be the 'go to " guy as well. Maybe just as well that Jim was not a part of it all as that may have caused more undo stress all around?
Woke this morning to a coldish windy morning and yet a bit of blue sky with a promised fairly sunny day. But I don't really believe anything anymore - we were supposed to get rain last night - our water barrels are empty right now and we were hoping to have them fill up naturally.
The fireworks went off as planned last evening and from the house I could hear nothing but bang, bang, sizzle, sizzle for 20 minutes straight.  Then after that the cats got all upset - so getting up I realized they had a mouse corralled in the kitchen. I was stymied to get at it but put up a trap beside the fridge and wall where it had taken refuge, heard the trap go off and then Tigger fumbling down the back stairs to the landing. After a funfilled game of cat and mouse I was finally able to capture it under my dish and piece of cardboard and out the front door it went. The rest of the night was uneventful.
We started to do dehydrating yesterday - got a bit of parsley and oregano done and today will keep at it with more of the same and other herbs etc.  Looking at your pictures Pati it is obvious that you folks are a bit ahead of us. The peonies here are only in bud right now but the plants look promising. The iris were the best they could be but are now fading. My wild rose bush that we pampered after the situpon was torn down are flourishing and covered with flowers and more buds. I guess it did it well to be separated from the trellis of the old situpon as they are now free standing and looking great.
Well, I splurge this morning and treat myself to a bacon and tomato sandwich for breakfast - I know - but I love it!  Take care all -hope everyone is fine!

Today

today was an adventure. I took the dogs for a walk and just part way down the trail JJ stepped on a baby porcupine hidden in the grass. I took out as many quills as I could and then called the neighbours...” I know this isn’t what you meant when you said to call you if I needed help but....”. Al came over right away and then went home for some sedation. We got out some more and then called in the professional. Rodney has removed many quills from multiple dogs. Meanwhile Jim slept. Now it is raining and the dog still has quills. Al and Carrie went home to eat. Rodney and I are waiting out the rain. JJ is sedated but unfortunately her teeth aren’t. Life goes on. And I didn’t get my walk ☹️

Morning is here...

...and I have my "list" of chores for the day to get at. But first a cup of coffee and a little sit. Harry is on the road already as there are quite a few yard sales as it is the long weekend.
Just came back from our dog walk and I must admit that I am really disappointed that I cannot enjoy my early mornings by sitting out to absorb the solitude as I love to do. Frankly the "bugs" have spoiled my life right now haha! They want to attack my ears and inside both ears is really painful as result of their intrusion. I use Watkins bug lotion as it is the best I have found but still not enough to give me peace.Here is a little quote that I found meaningful for me:
"I cultivate silence every morning. I sit in it, bask in it, wrap it around myself, and hear and feel me. Then wherever the day takes me...(people) get the real me, not someone shaped and altered by the noise around me."  
I had a hair cut yesterday and what a great feeling - boosts you up so totally. Then I went to the Library and ordered two more books hoping they will arrive, and then walked over to the bank ( monthly bills and garage sales after all need cash..haha!) Nice to get out for a bit. Then Harry found me at the Bank and we drove to South River to take the dog for a walk - I always loved the park in South River but again further to my comments above, the bugs spoiled the event for me and because he caught me on my walk, I did not even have the bug lotion to use.
Today I would like to find my summer clothes (shorts, light tops etc) They are nicely put away in a big bag labelled "summer cloths" but I cannot find them.I looked in all the usual hiding spots, but to no avail. So I shall put a wash on and then attempt to uncover them downstairs somewhere. Wish me luck!
Have a good Canada Day weekend. I am sure to hear the fireworks here but have no intention of walking down to view them - never really liked the up closeness of watching fireworks. Take care

Chloe

The picture makes me think of Amber when she was small.  The "big hair" has always been Amber's trademark and I see it has moved down a generation.  Just like the "Grannie Hands" that Keri inherited.  Only reasonable I guess, with the other two, as they share a name.

Well done on getting the picture on the blog, Cathy.

After sleeping on it......

Ok. I am a failure ☹️

Didn’t work

i see my picture did not post. I will try again but if I fail maybe Pati can 

Experimentation

I am now trying to once again blog from my phone. Gee, you take a month off and all hell breaks loose.  I am feeling really old right now. Chloe is only 4 1/2 but this picture really gets to me
I have tried to make it small but I do not have pati’s talent so I am not sure it worked. We had some friends drop by earlier and I think it tired Jim out. He is back on the couch. I told you (I think) that I rearranged the rec room so he could watch TV lying down and that is where he is. 
Time for me to crash too

Iced Tea for David

Off for my daily coffee, but David joined me after running a couple of errands.  they had a special sale on of any iced beverage being but one, get one.   He went to see what they were offering, but the drinks advertised within the store didn't interest hem at all.  Knowing he likes a fairly strong tea, I went up to see what I could find.  They had a couple  of familiar blends, but those were hot teas.  After a little negotiation, a plain black tea was selected and the two drinks delivered fairly quickly.  After drinking one in the store, we headed home.  Since him coming home with a drink was a special occasion, we decided that it should be enjoyed outside, and set up the umbrella but had to wash off the table and sweep the patio, as everything was covered with debris from last night's rain.

Giving the table a final swipe with a dry paper towel, I knocked this precious container of tea off the table and all over the ground.  What a disaster considering how much time and trouble we had taken just to take it home, so it could be consumed on the patio.  I may never get him to buy a drink there again.

But after that, I took  tour of the garden again.  My beloved pink Peony is in full bloom and just about finished.  It only takes about 48 hours for that to happen.  But I did get three blooms to take into the house.

 The flowers in the old sink are doing well.  I know David enjoys seeing blooms, and the state of this display is checked every day.

Somehow we ended up with a sunflower in the pail close to the feeder.  It's pitifully small but has developed a bud, none the less.  I wish the picture was clearer, but taking a picture in the sun with a digital camera is often difficult.

The display on the neighbour's rose bush is also a little past its peak, but still a joy to see.

And finally the shoot in our yard off that bush, is showing a little colour.

After the frenzy of  workshop projects earlier in the week, I'm now doing more putter-y stuff clearing up a few other projects, before a new episode of instructions is posted tomorrow.  Good!  I need a break.

So now a shower, maybe a bit of poker, and off to bed.

Canada Day looming.....

It is hard to realize that July is fast approaching and that the long awaited Summer is just flying by now that it is here. I sat in the sitting area yesterday enjoying the green and birds and flowers and slight warm breeze, and remembering the past winter when I had wished for such a scenario but now I want it to inch by one slow moment after another so I can cherish it. 
Pati you are one busy lady these days but I sense the thrill and enjoyment oozing from your comments and from your work. It is nice to see such enthusiasm and inspiration and expect this new course has stirred you significantly? 
I am in that "I need a haircut " mode but cannot seem to get to the phone to arrange an appointment - my current hairdresser has odd hours so I really have to work around her hours and availability, and also my ability to get there.
I also wish to go into the Library to order more books. I was  thinking I might be able to log onto their computers and print off some attachments I received from the Alumni Committee about our recent 50th Nursing Reunion held the end of May. I cannot open the attachments - I went through this before when you sent me the attachment for WWWhispers Pati - then I went to the Library and they turned it into a PDF file and sent it to me so I could have it. Then I wonder if i really need to read the reports - I did not go to the event, so why would I want to read about it and then I realize that I am falling into a frumpy mood again. So I need some inspiration....haha!
Anyway, on with the day. Lots of outside work to do, and the days are sunny for the short term so have to take advantage. Hope all is well with everyone. Take care

Spinning around like a top

That's what I feel like I'm doing, I have so many things on the go. My internet class continues with only two classes to go.  I'm aware of many of the techniques, but this gives me a chance to actually try them. Here are a couple of pictures. This first one is from my second class.  I was to cut without a ruler, and then just "wing" it.  I'm not happy with this, have no idea what I might do with it, and will delete the picture asap.

The next one is from class 3.  We were to be inspired by and traditional design, and were to incorporate some pieced sections and some striped fabric.  Unfortunately, when I bought fabric, I bought a striped fabric that isn't quite right, but still works well, in terms of colour.

Here is a close-up   where you can see both the striped and pieced fabric a little better.

A big chore today was to clean out the wheels of my sewing chair.  Bits of thread etc get caught up in them to the point where they refuse to roll.  I try not to let it get that far, but you can see from the debris on the table how much dirt comes off them. All five of the wheels have to be removed and disassembled to clean them. Most of the thread, and there's a lot,  goes straight into the garbage, where the dirt went right after I took the picture. David is trying to put one of the wheels back on in this picture.

Otherwise, I have a hand beaded piece on the go and should finish it this week.  No picture.  I had spoken about boiling leaves in  my canner with vinegar and rusty objects.  The leaves are placed between pages of water colour paper and then clamped into a very tight bundle.  Here are some of the results.  You can see where I tried to augment one with a water colour pencil.  Did not work well.  I'm pleased with the result, and have made this  month's ATC's with some.

I've started to alter a book, and at the same time, am preparing pages in my sketch books for colour to be added.  This isn't anywhere near to the point where I can take a meaningful picture.

David continues to putter in the garden, although his puttering is much more demanding than mine.  Today I sat outside for awhile watching him.  Lazy summer days, I guess.  Nice weather, although we were supposed to have a thunderstorm this evening.   A bit of thunder, but no rain. However, there was a report of a tornado seen outside Lorette this morning.  That's scary!  Good to see you back on the blog, Cathy.  Don't get impatient, I expect that progress will be slow, and there is no point in pushing it.

Back on the blog

I have no idea where I came up with my google password but I am sure glad I wrote it down. I took Jim to the legion for a bit (1/2 hour +/-) and he has been dozing since we got home. I am not happy about his lack of appetite and exhaustion right now. If it continues tomorrow I am going to contact the clinic and see if it is a side effect of his medication or if I should be worried. Tim left early this morning (he is already home in Edmonton) so it is just Jim and I right now. On Wednesday some friends that moved to Brandon last year are going to drop in. When we met them they had a very young family and the kids adopted us as “gramma” and “grampa”. Their youngest is now almost 16. Their oldest is developmentally challenged so she still gets very excited to see us. It is the middle daughter’s birthday on Wednesday and she asked to come back to Neepawa and visit us and her old home. They want to bury their dogs ashes at their old yard site. It is abandoned now do I doubt anyone will object. I got a lot of basic housework done today but I still can’t seem to find the time to actually get down to a real cleaning.  Maybe once Jim is better.  I took some beef noodle soup out of the freezer for his supper and once he wakes up I will make sure he eats some. It is homemade so it might appeal to him more than the commercial stuff. I am sitting outside right now enjoying the weather. It has been a while since I have had the chance to enjoy the outside while it is still nice out. I watered the garden and flowers today so maybe it will rain tonight 😊. 

Usual Manitoba weather

Perfect temperatures, sunny skies and prairie wind.  The same wind that used to prevent us from bicycle riding, is now preventing me from sitting and reading in my garden.

The studio is very busy.  I'm finding pleasure and maybe even a bit of joy in this class.  I'm comfortable with the techniques, although I may not have ever used them before.  But I'm back in the studio and eager to get there every day.  I still take time in the morning to get this old body moving, and try to avoid too many trips up and down the stairs, but when I'm there, there is a frenzy of work and fabric and thread flying all over.  I haven't been keeping up with taking pictures, but hope to do that tomorrow.

David is still puttering in the garden, these days.  The peonies are in bloom.  The fruit is setting in the Nanking Cherry bushes.  We even watched a bird investigating the progress today.  But we now know for certain that another part of the larger bush is dead.  The new Hydrangeas appear to be doing well.  We don't expect any blooms on them this year, but we have buds on the older ones.  The rose bush next door is in bloom and I have one on the counter right now (Shhh!)  We have a couple of small shoots growing on our side of the fence, and we are strongly encouraging them.  Not much squirrel action these days, and we worry that the crows may be responsible for that, but the rabbits are active.

So I've done as much as I plan to for today, I've had my shower, and am about to settle down to a poker tournament.  Hope everyone is settled down and ready to face the week.

All is good...

The weekend is here, and all our family members are at home where they should be...what a nice feeling!
My body and scalp is covered with welts and so itchy - the bugs are really bad. Did I mention that before???? haha  But outside work carries on. Harry has just about finished planting all the tomatoes and yesterday was the first day of Summer. Very behind this year but then everyone is around here.
Update on my trip to the Hearing Aid Centre OPEN HOUSE: A very pleasant event under a tent just outside the store front. Lots of food and drink, lots of balloons to celebrate their 40th Anniversary in business, and lots of Sales persons from different companies showing their wares. A few giveaways eg pens, ear plugs, eye glass cleaners magnets etc but I usually never go after that kind of thing. I entered my name into the draws but have not heard back so I guess I was not lucky. I spoke with all the Reps and have a bit more investigation to review for myself, but I have an appointment for July 16 to start the ball rolling. Oh boy.........
On another front after discussions with Harry he has agreed to accompany me on the chartered bus south to Casino Rama in Orillia. So I phoned to book for next Thursday ( bus goes every last Thursday of the month) Oh, my sad luck as there is no trip this month BUT, not to be undone, I booked us for next month on July 25. So here's hoping we will go. It has been on my mind for awhile to try to get out and do something. Apparently they have broken ground up in North Bay to start construction on the newest Casino to be built in Ontario. May be a few years though before it is up and running but hoping that we might go once it is - would be a lot closer.
So on with the day - lots of wash and vacuuming on my list, as Harry goes off to garage sales, and then more garden work and fighting bugs haha! Take care all!

Making progress

Touched by your message Pati of proceeding with Veterans Affairs. Oh how I wish it might be the same here but it will not so I am best not to fuss. But I would like to follow your progress so I may be "in the know" so to speak
Yesterday will likely be our last needed day at Mike's while he is on course. Apparently the group will move from the field to the lab on campus for the last week so that means he will be at home next week to finish up the course. I am just as pleased. I am pleased we were able to help him out though, but the process turned out to be a bit much if truth be told.
So we met up with the next door neighbours yesterday - and made their acquaintance again - always needs an ice breaker of sorts to get the ball rolling so Harry and I spotted him in his back yard and we went over to the fence to welcome him. Then on my walk with the dog, the both of them were walking over to the grocery store so I greeted her formally as well. They were late getting back home Tuesday night because of car trouble on the highway after leaving the airport. The brotherinlaw from across the street (Ruths husband) took the neighbours car ( stored in the garage all winter) to get them but on way home the brakes started to smoke and smell and so they had to crawl home slowly. The car is at the garage now to be checked. but they made it home late but safe.
Today we go to Huntsville and to the Hearing Aid Open House - I am crossing my fingers that all will go well for me as I am a bit anxious about the whole thing. I'll follow with an update to you tomorrow.
So now for breakfast and get on with it. Take care

Not our usual adventure.

So glad to hear that Jim is in Neepawa.  With that anxiety gone, maybe he'll be able to relax a bit and heal faster.  I know you'll be much more relaxed, and maybe get some rest, Cathy.

During my trip to Manitou last week, the lady driving  and I had quite a conversation about the services she and her husband receive as a result of his military service. ( In India during WW2)  I mentioned it to David, and he gave more consideration to making a claim of his own.  After a month and  many phone calls, he finally got an address for someone to help filling out the form.  I Googled the address and discovered it was a Veterans Affairs office on Ellice.  This morning, off we went, parking at Portage Place.  Now, we never go downtown and certainly not to Portage Place. We couldn't find anywhere to pay for parking, which we had to do immediately upon entering the parking facility.  We ended up getting directions for the mall Customer Service, and she directed us to a pay station. Lots of walking, just to complete that task.  Then, it was just a one block walk to the building we were heading for.  We found the office and explained to the receptionist why we were there, expecting to be given an appointment sometime next month ( a bit of an exaggeration, but maybe more realistic than I think.)  She says just a minute we'll see if someone can see you, Within that moment a very nice young woman came took us into an office and got started.  She spent about an hour and a half with us, right during the noon hour and got everything sorted out.  But--she also explained that all of their computers were down and they couldn't do any work, so she was very, very happy to have something to pass the time.  

By this time it was 1:30 and we still had a very expensive hour of parking, so decided to have lunch at the food court there.  Both strange and interesting people eat there.  Many different languages are spoken. Under the "strange" description was a female security guard.  An older, short and heavy woman who was either sleeping or enjoying a chemically induced experience as she she wandered around, and around, and around the small area where we were sitting.  Not a cheap lunch, but then, we weren't really expecting cheap.

When we got home, I was exhausted, probably due to all the walking, and it being a fairly hot day.  I sat in the garden and watched David mowing the lawn, for awhile, but finally came in and went to bed for a nap.  Just before I went down, I got a call from the same lady at Veterans Affairs.  She had been appointed as our official "First point of Contact", and we would deal with her for any further activity.  She explained that things might be delayed a bit, as she would need David's official service number, from when he first joined, in 1962, even though that number had changed with amalgamation.  This lead to a frantic search on his part, just prior to supper, and he found it--written on the back of our marriage certificate in pencil.  I figure he must have had to take the certificate in to prove our marriage, when he listed me as a dependent.  According to the lady at Veterans Affairs this will shorten the time to process our claim significantly, even though we still have to have a form filled out by our doctor.

So now, it's after 8:00, and it feels like we just finished supper.  Unfortunately, I just remembered that we had started laundry this morning, just before we decided to go downtown, and there is a load in both the washer and dryer.  Have to go and take care of that.  Won't put another load into wash until tomorrow, though.

Hot doggy the bugs are bad....

.....And I am about to go outside and cut the grass. Hope i survive.
Tonight the next door Dutch neighbours arrive and we have some streamers to put up as a little decoration .... we do something every year.
Last evening a young man came to the door about the trailer in the back - apparently, unbeknownst to me, Harry had gone online to Buy and Sell and made contact with him - he takes scrap metal. He had a full truck and trailer and said he would be back. I waited until about 8:30 pm and no show. Finally I got ready for bed AND WAS READING AND I SPOTTED HIM ABOUT 8:45 LOOKING AT THE TRAILER AGAIN. bY THE TIME I GOT OUTSIDE HE WAS IN HIS TRUCK AND DRIVING AWAY. (damn upper case -i did it again) The tires are flat, the ice hut on top is rotten and i really think the trailer is falling apart but if he can take it away (????) it is his if he ever returns. I would be glad to see it go.
I guess I better get on with my day. Hope all is well to everyone - Hi Neepawa folks - glad you are closer to home! Take care

Here we are another week into June

The time is flying....but the garden is actually starting to grow and look interesting. The peas and beans are up - soon they will require some attention to picking though and i can certainly wait a bit for that chore haha!
I had my first Kale Salad for supper last night - delicious. Thanks Pati for that recipe - I had to run to the store though to buy some Creamy Poppyseed dressing but I had enough dried cranberries on hand. We are still planting tomatoes - I am getting the pots unearthed from winter storage and cleaning them up, and placing them around the yard, and then Harry putting the plants in and staking them. Still many more to do though....
This week on Thursday I am still planning to go to the Open House at the Hearing Aid Center in Huntsville. I am a bit hesitant to take it to the next step of actually ordering, but I am sure I shall survive (worry about the expense of it all I guess).
Ruth, the neighbour called to invite us to the Welcoming of her sister and brother in law ( the folks from Holland) coming Tuesday. She always has some goodies and champagne to welcome them - but they do not get here until about 930 pm - we have declined over the past few years and i shall have to decline again today to her - Harry never wants to go and I'll admit it is a bit late in the evening and i always figure the pair will be too tired from the flight over to enjoy much socializing.. I am always declining her invitations but cannot do anything else.
Have a nice week folks. I believe that the summer is really upon us now so want to enjoy every hour and day of it before that nasty winter comes. I am already in my mind thinking about how I can keep the roof clean to prevent all that leaking again in the spring - ugh and dread and ugh!. Take care

Saturday evening, and now I get to sit

For about 3 minutes before it's bedtime.  Well, maybe a little more.  Maybe long enough to finish this blog.

I took out a one year membership in Design Matters TV.  I did the math, and decided that it would be cheaper than buying individual videos, or monthly memberships.  I've been a little disappointed in The Quilt Show lately, but, unfortunately, my membership has just been renewed.  Anyway, I saw a video on making leaf/flower prints, on water colour paper, using vinegar water and heat ("Boil for one and a half hours").  So, we've done two batches over the last two days.  The first one turned out better than the second, but I have lots of prints to do something with.  Not sure what "something" might be, but when I do figure it out, I'll be ready.  What a mess!!

At the same time, I was having so much fun, I had forgotten about the internet class I had signed up for.  We got a new lesson yesterday, and I started working on it tonight.  So much to do!  I may have bitten off more than I can chew.  But I will persevere.  

Now I sit and look around the kitchen.  It will still be here in the morning.  I'm too tired and sore to do another thing.

Yesterday we bought a packet of stamps.  they are in the shape of baseballs.  Yes, I mean round stamps.  I imagine Harry already has some in his collection, Beth?  Or maybe that sort of thing isn't within his area of interest?

Okay.  A Dr. Phil approved snack, and off to bed.

I spotted a wee bit of sun just now....

In the midst of rain and more rain there was a glimmer of sun shining through just now. I just had the dog for his long walk and felt a few sprinkles still, and lots and lots of bugs to annoy us both.
Now that it is time to close up shop for the night, the sun decides to make an appearance!
We went to North Bay this morning - I  know ...on a Saturday when Harry should be off to his garage sales (haha!) but since it was pouring, we decided to head there. We needed gas badly, and Harry's favourite little Store ( Magic Dollar Liquidation) is only open on Thurs to Sun. I bit of groceries but not much, and a blouse and pr of slacks at Rebuilt Resources for me, but the thrill of the day for me was to see the new store just opened - guess what??? A first for North Bay - a big Starbucks stand alone Store right on the main thoroughfare and of course lots of cars in the parking lot. When Target was in North Bay there was a little Starbucks Kiosk inside the store but with the Target closing, so too the Starbucks closed down quickly. When we were in Sudbury two Wed ago to go to Costco I managed to walk into the Starbucks beside Chapters but just to look around and try to absorb some of the ambiance just to say to myself that I had been in. Now, I think I may actually plan to go to the one in North Bay. I'll let you know when the big event takes place haha!
The Library called me again that the second book I ordered had come in...it was the most recently published Monkeewrench by PJ Tracy. of course I have put down my Hugo Marsden novel to read Monkeewrench first. Both books came from western Ontario - one from Kenora and the other from that obscure little town just west of Thunderbay near Kakebecka Falls. I am so excited to be reading both of these authors again as I really enjoy both series.
Speaking of which,,,,I must put the birds to bed, and then get there myself to read. I have my hexi quilt spread out on my bed as I did a bit of work this afternoon so must tidy that up now.
I spoke briefly with Mike this morning ( his Birthday today) and he was in process of preparing for his guests for his BBQ. The weather was clear and sunny there so glad he didn't have to worry about rain and BBQing. He cat with the eye infection I was so worried about is OK - he'll give her a few more drops but otherwise she is recovering well. 
So long for now. Thinking of you all and hoping Cathy and Jim will soon be able to come home - at least closer if it has to be the Neepawa Hospital for a while. Take care
ps did you read in the WFP the little story and attached picture about Dr Lloyd Bartlett? I assume it is "our" Dr Bartlett- right?

Still here...

...and wondering about the next few days. The weather is threatening to offer a variety of conditions - if only one could just pick the one they liked best and get on with it...haha!
Oh Pati to be with you in the studio would be a delight after all the descriptions and pictures of work, and fabric and projects and I guess, of wine making too! This is what you wanted - to be inspired and busy and trying out new ideas, and planning - and I read into your mood as being content / happy with life right now. Even the garden and flowers have lifted your spirits - it does mine. I finally spotted some nasturtiums popping through the ground - I planted seeds long ago and wondered if anything would develop - we have such a slow start to everything this year. And Cathy even with how things are with you right now, and your back and forth, have you been able to seek pleasure from your yard /garden. How about flowers?
Quite a day yesterday at Mike's fixing up the house and cats and yard so he will come back from the bush and be able to relax with his friends at his planned BBQ Saturday.  His one cat with the eye infection seemed not too bad so i gave it drops and medicated treats - Mike actually phoned me there at 7:30 am before heading out to the dig, because I guess he was worrying. I settled him a bit to say I thought ( in my opinion) that the cat would be OK to wait for him to come in Friday night (and not for him to try to get anyone else into the house before then) Now I hope the little cat will be OK after all.
So back to working around here now - lots of garden work and inside work to keep me busy. And fighting the horrible bug problem. never seen it so bad! But the Library called and one of the books I ordered through InterLibrary lending is in - so I shall go up there today to retrieve it. Apparently there has been a successful resolution to the problem of lending that started in Feb and I shall now be able to order again without worry. I am well pleased with this situation.  Take care folks - thinking of you all.

Busy, but not as busy as you!

I have done little except work in the studio, and go out for my daily coffee.  Boy! Is the studio ever hopping!  There are ideas running through my brain, most of which will probably never become anything concrete.  I have redone three of the squares for the little quilt I'm making from the very, very expensive pattern.  The pattern is for a very scrappy quilt, as well as every square being different.  Once I had several squares made I knew in my heart that I wouldn't be able to live with it, so I changed it to a scrappy quilt with a strong blue emphasis.  There is still a long way to go, but I will work on it slowly, and between projects--those times when I've usually made charity quilts.

The Circle of Life  project is dead-gone-a waste of time and materials.  But the FMQ'd background--for which I purchased that very expensive silk thread--is being turned into a different project, and one that is looking very, very viable.  Not ready for pictures yet, though.

As well, I've had further, positive thoughts about the burgundy tree piece that I've called spring.  In my head, I've planned the whole 
"Seasons" series, and have actually selected background fabric for two more pieces.  I may have background fabric for the fourth "season" as well, but just haven't looked far enough into my stash.

All of this has taken place over the last four days, but I'm also looking forward to working with the pieces I painted last week.

We still enjoy all of the "wildlife" that comes to our feeder.  Some has four legs and most have two, but there are enough of the first category that I no longer call it a "Bird feeder".  The Lady Slippers have just abut finished blooming.  Only two blooms this year, but the year we had the entire flower bed full of bloom is still one of the high moments of my life here.  The Hydrangea bushes and bedding plants that David bought are doing very well.  Fingers crossed!

Right now the over-riding thing in my life is that I'm cold.  We no longer have the heat on, but we've considered it, especially when it comes to bath time.  It hasn't gone above 20 degrees for several days, and this very well insulated house remains cold.  The basement is about 10 degrees colder than the first floor, so I have to have an extra sweater when I'm down there.  We started a wine kit last weekend, and we can smell it so it must be working, but I'm surprised given the cold basement.  Of course, the wine making and the fabric dyeing are taking place in the same sink and work space down there.  At one point at the same time.  

Tomorrow I'm going out to Manitou for a meeting of my fibre art support group.  This is the meeting that was cancelled last month because of a family emergency on the part of the hostess.  I will be driving out with my friend Willy, whom I believe you met out in Selkirk, Beth.  Not sure how that will go, as she may not be willing to stop at every public washroom along the route.  I'll let you know.

On line course

I have read the other blog and interested in what you are doing and have to assume that you are having to work quite intensely and on focus to achieve your expected outcomes for this course Pati ? I was surprised that you published the start of your work so I imagine there are no intellectual property issues? That's good, as we can expect more of the same as you progress? haha! And you seemed to have experienced an eureka moment related to your "values" - substantiated by your friends. Is this going to be helpful as you move forward, because it seemed to bother you at first? Perhaps then, that this course was meant to be and you shall be well informed and better for all that you learn. I hope so.
Going to Mike's tomorrow so another long day ahead. We did a big shopping for him today as he has invited several of the group to his house for a BBQ on Saturday and since he has no time to fuss. I guess Mom gets to do that? I'll help out best I can. And I also have to check on his cat with the eye infection. And as always it will be an early shunt in the morning so I have to get it all ready to load before bed. So I better stop for now and sign off. Hoping all is well and always thinking of Cathy and Jim as the week progresses. Take care.

Bugs anyone?

Do you folks have all these pesky bugs swarming around you while you attempt to ignore them and get on with the yard work? They are absolutely relentless little creatures this year. But the work must be done so I guess it is damn the torpedoes ....etc etc. I had to water twice yesterday - early morning and then before bed as it is so dry. But this morning there is a bit of rain starting so maybe a reprieve of sorts?
Pati last evening I was able to search Elizabeth Barton and find the web site and find the Academy of Quilting, and I think the on line course you are taking. Just out of interest for me, mind you. I do like to follow your activities to get a better understanding of what you are doing but would never actually partake in any of these myself.  I enjoy the few blogs that you have mentioned and the few I have found just to look and see. Maybe keep me grounded a little?
This week should be busy with Harry's Dr appointment and shopping and going to Mike's etc. He called last night to say his one cat has her eye infection again for which he gives steroid eye drops and medicated treats so i have been given instructions - not a good situation with him being gone and not able to do twice daily treatments - I'll assess and treat her Wed and our contingency plan if she is not better/or worse is for Mike to call friends in Markstay to come and give drops until he comes home Friday night. I hope it does not come to that...he'll call me Wed evening after his day of work, and see how things are and we''ll take it from there.
Anyway, time for the day to begin. have some breakfast and another coffee. Yesterday i treated myself to sit out side in the early morning with my coffee and toast, and what a treat it was. I actually started to do the watering with housecoat still on but who gives a d.... it is my yard afterall! Take care

No match for you Pati

It is so exciting to read your posts Pati and get swept up with the whirlwind of activity you and Dave engage in each day. I blush to think of my posts - all about weather and planting and working in the yard haha!  But yesterday I did make some banana muffins and took a plate over to Ruth and Gerd. The "plate" was critical though as it was hers from a treat she gave me around Christmas. When i had seen her last she actually asked me about the plate as it is part of her service. I put it away safely but do you think I could find it yesterday???? The muffins were ready and I was ready but NO PLATE. It took me about 30 minutes of panic searching before I sat down and thought about it for a minute and prayed for inspiration, and voila, there it was, safe in a bag in my room. My mind is so full these days that it gives me pause to wonder just how confused I am getting - am I forgetting things or am I too overwhelmed? I sat with them while they ate their early lunch ( I did not intend to interrupt them but my timing was bad) and enjoyed a cup of tea and nice conversation - actually Ruth was on about men and their inability to multitask while Gerd said it is better to do one job at a time and get it done - so who is right? 
So on with the weekend - washing anyone?  It appears I have a pile to get at. And Cathy thinking of you - soon you too shall be at home with Jim and enjoying a nice sit down!.  Take care. 

Running so fast I can't keep up with myself

Thanks for the update this morning, Cathy.

This morning I finally found the supply list for the on line quilting class I signed up  for.  I had bought a little fabric when we were in Winkler last week, but barely a drop in the bucket compared to what the list says.  We sat down to figure out what I was going to do, and I decided that my best and cheapest bet would be to dye a lot of the white fabric I have on hand, and only purchase what I can't create myself.  So amongst the errands we had to run this morning, was a trip to the fabric store.  My one and only white shirt had developed a nasty stain, so I also wanted to visit the clothing store, knowing they had a big sale on this weekend.   Found not one, but three white shirts got all three for an excellent price. The fabric store was more of a challenge, but we found the three print fabrics I needed.  Then David asked if he could check Walmart to see if he could find another shirt like the one he bought yesterday.  He found three more.  

While we were out gallivanting, the laundry was busy, as well as the dishwasher.  Once we added the new clothes, and all of the fabric to the the pile of fabric waiting to be washed, the poor machine was going all day and evening.

While monitoring the washer and dryer, I cleaned up a couple of small piecing projects that I wanted off the table before I started my class.  The class finally appeared on my computer late this afternoon.  I slowly read through the first lesson and said to myself "OMG! What the  (insert bad word here) have I got myself in for?"  The instructor told us that she was only going to give us four projects with this class, and would be giving us as many as 12 in further classes,   and the whole thing has to be finished in 8 weeks, when all of he instructions and on-line forums associated with the class would disappear.  Looks like a busy summer, with absolutely no time to get into trouble.

And what have you two been doing?

It's now Thursday evening

This is the week without commitments during which I promised myself the gift of time in the studio.  Made enough time yesterday to do the ironing, and rip out several mistakes on a small piece.  About 1-11/2 hours.  And it's now Thursday evening.  I'm exhausted and hurt everywhere.

We needed to do a little grocery shopping.  With the new Freshco store in the area our shopping is spread among four different stores--all of them big and involving long walks.  In addition to Superstore, Walmart, Sobey's and Freshco, we also visited the Bulk Barn today ( seniors' 10% discount for Wednesdays!.)  We only bought a couple of things in each, but still spent 3 1/2 hours doing it.  Then it was across town to buy a new Bath seat. I have been talking about scrubbing the bathtub, but wanted to have everything in place before doing it this weekend.  I guess David got p'd off with my talking about it.  I sat down for a minutes after we got home, and the next thing I know, he's in his underwear scrubbing the bathtub.

When we got home, I checked the e-mail, and discovered an e-mail reminding everyone of the opening reception for the new show in the gallery in Selkirk--this evening!   More bad words spoken, but we quickly grabbed some supper and headed out, making another trip to Sobey's to pick up a nibble for the refreshment table. (everyone with work in the show is expected to contribute)

But now we're home.  We're both exhausted, but can't consider bed, because at 9:00 is the final episode of Project Runway.  Can't miss that!!  And we're almost out of wine, but that's an issue for tomorrow.

A picture says a thousand words...

The bouquet of lilacs made my day... I so love them and yet we have a very poor crop that dwindles every year. And no neighbour from which I can beg some beautiful, fragrant, flowers.
Our travels for this week are over and maybe now can enjoy some home time. The weather will cooperate as well, so I am actually looking forward to being out in the yard just as you have described Pati.  And Cathy, you too, shall have your outside respite time soon! 
Yesterday it was to Mike's and then to Sudbury to visit Costco. The gift card was spent and today I must try to organize the fridge and freezer and cupboards to store the loot! I came home with items not on my list and without items that were on my list - go figure! I have to reiterate my feelings about Costco as they have not changed. I do not think that I like this store! Is the atmosphere, or what?  Or is it that I really did not have the latitude to do my own thing on looking around, or make my own decisions about purchases?
Today after I clean the bird cages, I hope to get into the yard - actually I will get into the yard (probably sooner than later) as Harry has a few chores for me - one is to help with planting the second barrel of potatoes.
Kate Morton books were originally recommended by Cathy and I am so glad she did. I cannot get all the books at my Library but maybe now I might be able to order the one's they do not have. I am enthralled by the plot and how it swings back and forth. Thanks Pati for mentioning that you also have being reading them and enjoying the, And thanks Cathy!
Well it looks as if I have a busy day ahead of me so better get at it. Hope all is well with everyone as this week progresses. Take care all.

Life in the garden

We have spent most of the last couple of days in the garden.  David continues to putter as much as he can with the garden itself, and I'm enjoying sitting and reading or stitching.  The weather has just been that nice.  That means that the house continues to be neglected, but if we're outside, then there isn't that much mess for us to deal with inside.

We bought some bedding plants for the old sink, and two more Hydrangea for the front garden. All now planted.  The neighbour has told us that we can take anything we want out of his garden.  But he never waters anything ( to cheap!).  David checked his Rhubarb, and it's small stringy and all dried out.  But yesterday, I picked three stems from his White Lilac, and brought them into the house.  I absolutely love the variegated colour in the blooms, before all of the buds open.

The reason I was in his garden and spotted them, was that I went to find some very small fern fronds to use in sun printing.  Yesterday morning I did about 10 different fabric paintings, about half of which were sun prints.  I was very pleased before I realized that one piece had dripped over just about all of them.  I had spotted it on a couple and rinsed them out before the paint had set, but missed it on one of my fern prints.  Bad words!  And the four I did were just about perfect, for what I have planned, before that happened.

With the painting outside, the setting up of everything takes longer than the painting itself.  It also involved many, many trips up and down the basement stairs.  I was also trying to do laundry, at the same time.  Needless to say, both of us could barely walk by the time everything was over and the equipment put away.  Not a good sign.  Makes me wonder how much longer we can stay in this house.  But we're all getting older aren't we?

Been reading Kate Morton myself.  Was it you, Beth you mentioned her work?  I'm quite enjoying it.  She does have a very distinct method and approach to her writing.

Enough for now.  You and Jim are on my mind, Cathy.  Please continue keeping us up to date with how things are going.

Up early

This morning was an early rise as I was checking the temperatures closely. The weather on CBC news stated frost warnings and 0 degrees overnight. Our weather network stated clear and 3 degrees. So it was not clear what might happen. At 4 am it was 39 F on our inside monitor from the gauge hanging outside, and on the thermometer attached outside to a tree at the little greenhouse it read 5 C. So it may just be alright and I will not have to go out and spray everything with water. No way to cover up. And the long range looks promising with much higher temps overnight.  It reminds me of what I imagine all the Farmers go through all the time trying to beat the weather and maintain their crops. I have enough stress just managing our little "paradise" haha!
Yesterday I made my first batch of rhubarb/pineapple jam - the first cuttings of the rhubarb is always a treat! Today I will make a Rhubarb Kuchen to take to leave for Mike when we go tomorrow to his place. I think I mentioned he has requested Rhubarb lattice Pie ( Mom's recipe) and Kuchen and Crumble. So I shall stagger the baking over a few weeks leaving one treat every time we go and then he has the enjoyment of finding it when we gets home over the weekend.
I went into the Library yesterday to renew one book and take out another - the Librarian said with a great big smile So where is your list for me to do an inter Library lending? She knows I keep my lists with me all the time. I was surprised and she said they had just heard that the system may be up and running again but not sure - so she ordered the latest P J Tracy (Monkeewrench) book I had wanted and another Mark Pryor (Hugo Margeson series) for me. Hoping that maybe one will actually come in?? I was excited to think maybe I'll be back in business.Although I have really enjoyed reading these Kate Morton books in the meantime -and I took out another Nicholas Sparks yesterday just for something simple to read.
We shall be going to Huntsville to shop this morning and then garden work this afternoon. I received a note in the mail to attend an Open House at the Muskoka Hearing Centre on June 20 - demonstrations, draws etc and I think I shall attend. I have been saving a little bit over last few months towards the purchase of hearing aids (not near enough $ though so far) but I think it may be time to take the next step and actually have a trial with some and then order. It will be a big investment but certainly time. 
Time to check the temps outside again. Take care 

Back in the Saddle???

The last couple of weeks have been very busy.  I've really been functioning in high gear, and running from event and commitment to event and commitment.  The final event was today, and I got home just before 3:00.  I went to bed and to sleep.  I could probably have slept for hours, but had asked David to get me up, knowing that doing so would interfere with my sleep tonight.

As I mentioned before, Friday we were up early and off to Winkler-a two hour drive each way--to hang a fibre art show at the Arts Centre there.  We got home and later in the evening, I got a phone call asking if I could volunteer in the gallery in Selkirk on Saturday.  David was with me, and it was a pleasant day.  Last evening we went out for supper and spent a couple of hours at the casino. We both really needed that down time.  Today, I had planned to go on a tour of artists' studios, with my friend Gail.  This has been planned for over a year.  Unfortunately, yesterday her 98 year old mother broke her leg, and Gail had spent most of the afternoon and evening in emergency.  But today her mother was casted, and back at the Personal Care home, and other family were available to step in.  So Gail wanted to proceed with our tour.  

The studio tour was interesting, and time well spent.  I bought some note cards, which I had needed, and a small fused glass trivet that was wanted but maybe not needed?  It is really beautiful, and I fell in love with it as soon as I saw it.  At a different studio I saw a mixed media picture that I fell in love with as well, but couldn't afford.  It was an artist I know, and if I can get the $$$ together, I may give her a call hoping that the picture is still available.

So now we have the a month with very few commitments.  I see it as almost a holiday, and plan to treat it that way.  After  I got up this afternoon, I spent a hour tidying and sorting in the studio, so that I could work on projects starting tomorrow.  I have missed my studio time so much, and plan to make up for it.

Sorry to be out of touch

I was called into the gallery for the day, at the last minute yesterday.  Sounds like Jim has had his surgery, and things are looking up.  I'm out all day again today, but will try to call Cathy on my cell.

Updates

Thank you Cathy for taking my call this afternoon even though you were in the hospital and it wasn't the best place to have a conversation. I just had to find out how you and Jim were doing!
Looking forward to hearing from you once you are both settled back at home and hoping it will be tomorrow as you mentioned - if all goes well and Jim continues to eat a bit and that darn IV can come out. In meantime take care. Thinking of you both. XX