Mad Red Hare

Gardening

2012-01-21T10:26:00.000-08:00

This year, I decided I wasn't making any resolutions. Instead I thought I would make a wish list. Not necessarily just for myself, but some things I would like to accomplish at home.

These little babies have been on my mind for a long time. We have an old playhouse-type thing that needs to be taken apart, so we kind of already have the wood. I might actually like gardening if I had something like this.

Photo courtesy of popularmechanics.com

Heading South

2012-01-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

Heading to Atlanta, Georgia on Thursday. It's that time of year to get some new merchandise for The Heart of Newburgh. It is always so crazy at Americasmart. I will be exhausted at the end of our jaunt. We will be heading home next Tuesday. Full of ideas, let's see how many we can make happen this year. I am hoping to come home with some renewed interests or something!

Wednesday (for lack of a better title)

2011-11-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

I swore that when my grandson was born, I wasn't going to be one of those "crazy" grandma's that broke out her ten foot long string of pictures everytime someone asked about the baby. Yeah, right. It is hard though when you have something this darn cute! Needless to say, I have a new man in my life!

On other things, like weight loss, not so much. I have been working for Weight Watchers as a receptionist for about 6 months now. I only did it thinking it would help me keep my weight off. That isn't the case. I have put on about 10 pounds and am now in jeopardy of not being able to work for them anymore. Clearly, it is no one's fault but my own. I have had two warnings and still wasn't enough of a threat for me. So now, it's crunch time. If I no longer can work for them, then so be it. I have got to get this weight off for ME. I got back to my normal meeting and have got to get serious about this. Wish me luck friends!

Indian Summer Chicken Casserole

2011-10-30T17:23:00.001-07:00

Since all I feel like doing these days is eating, I thought I would share a recipe. This is what we had for dinner tonight.

3 or 4 large chicken breasts, cooked

2-10 ounce cans cream chicken soup

1 stick margarine

1/2 c. chopped celery

1/2 c. choppen onion

1 package Stove Top Stuffing Mix

1 c. milk

After cooking the chicken, reserve broth. Place chicken in the bottom of 9 x 13 pan. On top of chicken, spread undiluted cream chicken soup. In a saucepan, add one cup of the reserved chicken broth to the margarine. Mix in the onion and celery and cook until tender. Add the stuffing to the onion mixture, mix gently and spread over the soup/chicken mixture. Pour milk over all and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Enjoy!

Pretty cute, huh?

2011-10-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

My new grandson, Geoffrey. He was born around 1:15 p.m. on Monday, October 17th. Which also happens to be his mommy's birthday! She tells me she owes me a big present for giving birth to her too!

Look At That Face!

2011-09-26T17:50:00.001-07:00

Doesn't that look like the face of an angel? This is Geoffrey's latest ultrasound picture. These ultrasound pictures these days are so realistic. Heck, I never even had an ultrasound when I was pregnant with either one of my girls.

Weighing in at 6 pounds 10 ounces. His expected arrival date is October 24th. Although I can't see her going that long if he is already weighing over 6 pounds! I think it looks like he has hair. Curly hair at that!

Travel Dog Bed

2011-09-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

This is one of my Travel Dog Beds that I made for the Greytfest. I picked out this fabric a year or so ago. I love it because it is a houndstooth pattern.
It has handles made out of webbing that fit easily over your shoulder and allows you to carry the bed and have your hands free to hold on to the dogs. There is velcro on the closure that allows you to open it up and lay it flat. It measures about 24 inches by 34 inches and has a piece of one inch foam. What do you think?

Suggestions Anyone...

2011-09-09T06:17:00.000-07:00

This year we are having our annual Greytfest on October 1st. For many years, I have wanted to be a vendor. This year, I am doing it.

Some of my wares will include, photo mugs, covered journals, belly bands, travel beds, poop bag holders, collars and collar accessories, travel beds. I have several antique postcards with greyhounds on them and made a couple of pillows. I also used copies of some old photos and made a few shadow boxes. Trying to get a couple of tote bags done as well.

So I need some suggestions for names. When I told them I was going to be a vendor, they asked "what do you call yourself?" I was debating about using Mad Red Hare. Any ideas?

Another Celebration

2011-08-27T06:04:00.000-07:00

Today marks the anniversary of the adoption of my Tom Sawyer. Eight years ago today we signed the papers and made him ours. He has come so far.

From the shy dog who spent 16 hours in his kennel that first night to a hound who now shares our bed at night. Happy gotcha day Tommie Boy!

My Dixie Girl

2011-08-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

Thinking of you today Dixie girl. This would have been your 11th birthday...

Vet Visit for Tom

2011-08-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

I posted this on the "dog blog". I tried to copy it into a post here, but didn't have much luck. Click http://grey-hare.blogspot.com/2011/08/vet-visit-for-tom.html for the full story.

A Special Quilt

2011-08-15T06:17:00.001-07:00

A little project I have been working on. This bow tie quilt is made from a few of my dad's favorite plaid shirts. I took a bunch of his shirts and have had them stashed away for a while now. It has always been my intention to make pillows or quilts out of them. So when my daughter found out she was pregnant, I knew the baby would be the first one to get a quilt.

The baby shower/cookout was this past Saturday, so I was under the gun to get this finished. I presented it to her when the family arrived. Worried there might be tears, I figured it was better to do it before everyone got here. I will post more about the "mustache bash" later. I'm off to work now!

2011 Fair Results

2011-07-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

Warrick County Fair has been over for several weeks now. The only way I can remember how I did on my projects is to document it on the blog. I went through my ribbons from previous years and missed filling the info in on the back of them. I have really got to do better about some things!

I used two charm packs to make my throw. Not sure how I came up with the pattern. But I think it's kind of fun. Not my usual colors, but you can't go wrong with Christmas!

The lady that I have do my machine quilting always does such a nice job. I usually take my tops to her and let her have creative freedom. On this one, she used a multi-color thread on the front and on the back she used red. The design has holly leaves and berries in it.
Something else I tried on this quilt was to use up the fabric that I had. So for the back I took the red piece that I had and put in a strip of the holly fabric to make it big enough. Trying to get rid of some of my stash!

My flower arrangement in the rain boots (click HERE for photo) got a blue ribbon and a grand champion. My B-O-O letters (click HERE for photos) got a blue ribbon as well. Got lots of projects that I would like to finish up this weekend. I guess time will tell!

Apron Love

2011-07-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

In an effort to get motivated to do something, I took most of my projects and threw them in a basket. When I want something to do, I can reach in the basket and pull something out. I purchased this apron on clearance at Hobby Lobby. It was one of those pre-printed jobs. The picture looks kind of funny to me, not sure why. I have been fascinated by aprons lately. Wish me luck on getting projects done!

Burp Cloths

2011-07-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

I just looked back at my posts and realized I forgot to share my news! We are going to have a grandson in October. His name is Geoffrey and he is due to arrive on October 24th.

I finally got motivated to make him something. I had purchased some cloth diapers for burp cloths. I was a little disappointed with the quality of the cloth diapers, but they will serve their purpose. Trying not to sweat the small stuff these days.

I was able to get four burp cloths out of of a quarter yard of fabric. Mom and dad love the dinos, I hope he does too!

This jungle print was a fat quarter I fell in love with.

These last ones, I used ribbon that I had left over from previous burp cloths. I try to make some for baby shower gifts.

They look pretty now, but after a few spit ups, they will be all broke in!

Sedums and Other Junk

2011-07-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

I have become increasingly fascinated with sedums. For almost 15 years now I have struggled with what types of plants to put on the deck. The deck faces south and has no shade at all. I really enjoy working in my flowers, but the fact that I don't "sweat" makes it hard to work outside. So I have been working at acquiring lots of pots for my deck and do my gardening in the evening. A couple of years ago, I got a start of a sedum from a friend and have been hooked ever since.

I planted up some of my junque finds. This watering can I got for $5.00. The strainers I picked up for probably fifty cents. The blue pan, I got for a couple of bucks at an antique mall. The bigger container to the right has a sifter-type bottom, and I have no idea what it is. So, I am working on getting a good collection of sedums together.

Finally, A Project

2011-07-06T09:57:00.001-07:00

I finally got something done! Belonging to a county homemakers club, you are required to exhibit at least ONE project in the fair. Well, having had 2 kids go through the 4-H program, I am following in their footsteps and waiting until the last minute to finish projects! That's the 4-H way, right?

I have had these boots for a couple of years now. A yard sale find, I think. I knew right away that I wanted to put a flower arrangement in them. It just took me a while to finally do it. Except now that I am looking at the picture, I see a hole that I need to fill.

Hey, at least I have my ONE project to exhibit! I do want to get more done, but only time will tell. I have gotten sucked in the world of Pinterest. If you haven't looked at it, don't. You will get sucked in too!

Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

They just aren't the same without you...

Inspiration

2011-06-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

HELP! I need some inspiration....BAD. Maybe some motivation as well.

Waiting and Prepared

2011-05-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

Well, we have serious storms coming our way this evening. So they say. I am home with my two pups, Tom and Sadie. Hubs is out of town in South Carolina for school. I decided since I am in charge, I would make us a little storm shelter. So the closet in the basement is our place. Now this isn't your normal closet, this is my storage closet. It measures 9 feet X 9 feet. So it is pretty roomy for us to all get in there. Got a couple days worth of dog and cat food, leashes, along with their meds. Candles, matches, batteries, flashlights, kerosene lamps and extra kerosene. Got some snacks for myself and a case of Diet Cokes! Filled up the tub with some water. Got a big comforter and some pillows and we are all set. Now I really hope I don't need to use any of it!

Cross Another One Off The List

2011-05-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday, my friend Cindy and I walked in our first 5K. She has the pictures on her camera, so I will post them as soon as she sends them to me. That is another thing crossed off of my bucket list!

Coffee with a Canine

2011-05-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

I am feeling pretty good this morning! Click HERE to visit the blog Coffee with a Canine to read the story they did about me and my pups!

Six Months Ago...

2011-05-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

So hard to believe it has been six months since that terrible Thursday. Miss you Dixie girl.

Honolulu or Bust!

2011-05-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy these past two weeks making arrangements for Jax to fly away! I took this picture Friday during the day before we left for the airport. My daughter and I left around 8:00 p.m. to make the 5 1/2 hour drive to Chicago. Because of the size of his kennel, he had to fly on a bigger plane. O'Hare was the closest option. The moment has finally come that I can say Jax has been reunited with his family!!! Click HERE for the rest of the story.

MARCH BLOCK

2011-04-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

I know, I am so far behind, I think I'm ahead! Here is my block for March. It is called Wagon Wheel. I didn't get it appliqued to the base block. I plan to do that tomorrow night and Stitch and Bitch.

Here's the story...

The Wagon Wheel was the second quilt to be displayed on the fence. Wagons with hidden compartments were one means of transporting runaway slaves.

The quilt was a message to pack things for their journey as if they were packing a wagon. With limited space and weight, they would need to consider supplies that would be essential for survival.

The wagon was also a symbol of a chariot that was to carry them home. The spirituals they sang carried hidden messages as well. Like "swing low, sweet chariot".

Sunbonnets and bandannas were indicators of social rank for women. Bonnets were worn by women that were above the rank of slave and indentured servants. A sunbonnet could also help fleeing slaves by disguising themselves by obscuring their faces. If a woman was to tilt her head slightly down, eyes looking shyly to the ground, she could use a bonnet for disguise.

In Nebraska City, Nebraska, stories are still told about a minister who used to drive his wagon with two sunbonneted ladies sitting by him. A half hour later, the minister would return with two ladies still sitting beside him. What no one noticed was that on the return trip, the two women wearing the bonnets had dark complexions.

I am going to list the names of the 12 blocks that I picked. If you have the book and want to work ahead, you will have the names. They are in the order that they appear in the Table of Contents in the book Underground Railroad Sampler.

1. Underground Railroad/Jacobs Ladder
2. Monkey Wrench
3. Wagon Wheel
4. Bear's Paw
5. Basket
6. Crossroads
7. Log Cabin
8. Shoo-Fly
9. Bow Tie
10. Flying Geese
11. Drunkard's Path
12. North Star

Thanks for your patience!

Rain, Rain, PLEASE Go Away!

2011-04-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

I know I will regret saying that out loud come August. Seriously, we have had record breaking rainfall here in Southern Indiana. Not to mention the weather radio going off at 2:00 a.m. this morning with a tornado warning specifically for my little town of Newburgh. We are located in Southern Indiana along the Ohio River. Let me tell you, old man river is very angry right now. We are expecting water to continue to rise and they are preparing the flood wall in Evansville. News media is calling this "catastrophic". Not to mention, the very back of my property is in the flood plain. It has never come close to the house, but if we keep getting rain, it might. Be praying for those of us who live here. Some towns are evacuating. I worry about families with animals, almost all shelters don't allow pets...

Yes, that street sign says Waterworks Road. Photo courtesy of courierpress.com.

Another Perk to Weight Loss

2011-04-20T20:05:00.001-07:00

I have discovered a new perk to my weight loss. Some of you might find this kind of funny. But I love buying new underwear! This is such a girl post, but oh well! I am always on the lookout for new underwear. Once I find some that I like, I try to buy as many as possible.

TJMaxx, my favorite place to shop, usually has great prices on undergarments. So I was perusing the clearance rack and found a pair for $1.00. I looked at the size, they were a medium. I thought, no way I can get in those. But for a buck, I decided to give it a shot. I have been putting off trying them on until today. I was pleasantly surprised that they FIT! Now, I am still a brief kind of gal, but I was doing the happy dance for my cheap and smaller size panties!

Aloha Jax!

2011-04-19T16:43:00.001-07:00

Finally got the flight arrangements made for Jax. He leaves on April 30th. Wish me luck as I take him 5 1/2 hours north to the Chicago Ohare Airport. For more on the story click here.

Pantry Photos

2011-04-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

Check out my pantry! This might be kind of hard to visualize since there aren't many shelves yet. But I am super excited to have this addition to my kitchen. It's not that my kitchen isn't big, because it is really big. Just oddly laid out and not much storage. So when my oldest daughter moved out I begged my husband to make her bathroom into a pantry. He still wanted a half bath, I wanted the bigger pantry. So we compromised and I have an L-shaped pantry and we have a small half bath. This corner will eventually hold a small freezer. We also installed our first pocket door. Now I would love to have them on every room! At the end is part of the closet from the old bathroom. I would love to have solid shelves in there, but not sure I can get that accomplished. Hubs is one of those people where it has to be his idea. So I may just wait a while and see if it comes to him! Adjustable shelves will go along the wall at the left. Hopefully I can get started painting tomorrow night. I have to use stain blocking primer on the ceiling since it is tongue and groove wood.

Weight Watchers News

2011-04-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I accepted the receptionist position with Weight Watchers. I had 2 phone interviews, and then went to shadow a meeting. Had a follow up phone call with an area recruiter and they offered me a job. It is 5 hours a week, which amounts to 2 meetings. But it sounds like a wonderful company to work for. Besides, I have to stay within my 2 pound limit of my goal weight. Another good reason to work for them! More to follow later. My right eye is twitching so bad, my vision is blurry.

No April Fools!

2011-03-27T20:53:00.001-07:00

Friday, April 1, will be my last day the library. I was able to pick up some more hours at my "day" job. Plus with the price of gas, I decided I might be ahead to simplify things! Also, I have my second phone interview with Weight Watchers on Wednesday. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Spring is Finally Here!

2011-03-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung! TGIS? I think that's how it would be for Thank God it's Spring! I have not had much time for blogging these days and I'm totally bummed about it. When I come home at 9:30 at night, I sit in my chair and read the blogs that I follow. I think about all the things I should be doing and creating, but am just too tired. Not to mention, lack of time.

There is no time for picture taking either. I found this picture of a little baby duck from the Indianapolis Zoo. It was the closest thing I could find to something spring.

Have a good week my friends!

And Now Back To The Show...

2011-03-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

I was all set to "vent", but now I am so tired, I wonder if it is even worth it. So instead, I will give you a little update. Last fall I took a second job at the library as a bookshelver. For some reason a couple of weeks ago, I suddenly was exhausted. I just can't get to feeling better. Right before, my Weight Watchers leader asked me if I had ever thought about working for Weight Watchers. My reply was, "yes, but I already have 2 jobs, I really don't want another one". Then it hit me, if I worked for Weight Watchers, I might not have to work at the library. So I asked for more info. I don't think I could be a leader. I just don't speak well in front of a group of people. So, she said there were receptionist positions available. So, I came home and submitted my application. I got a confirmation e-mail today that I will be doing a phone interview next Thursday at 8:30 a.m. Wish me luck! Of course, I will drag out the soap box later this weekend!

Dragging My Soap Box Out of Storage...

2011-03-10T07:33:00.001-08:00

Look out folks, I am pulling the soap box out of storage...and I'm about to get on it.

Maui on My Mind

2011-02-24T06:20:00.000-08:00

Lately, I seem to be daydreaming about our vacation to Maui. Lots. Perhaps, it is because it is so cold and dreary this time of year. Or maybe, I just need a vacation. This was the view from our hotel dining area. Oh how I want to return.

Been contemplating lots of things in my life. Since I took the second job at the library, I have not much time to do anything it seems. I do enjoy my job. Pretty fast paced and time goes by fast. I am not sure what happened, but last week I just became exhausted. I can't seem to get over it. Problem is, I have gotten used to the extra money. Well, actually, I need the extra money. So, what's a girl to do?

FEBRUARY BLOCK

2011-02-20T15:15:00.000-08:00

Sorry girl, I am running a little behind. This month's block is called Monkey Wrench and starts on page 38 of the Underground Railroad Sampler Book. My finished block is pictured. So here's the story for this month!

The Monkey Wrench Quilt was the first quilt that was used as a signal for slaves who planned to escape. Back in the day, the monkey wrench was a heavy metal tool used by the blacksmith. This particular quilt was the symbol that it was time to collect the tools they would need on their journey north to freedom.

There were also physical tools needed as well. Tools for constructing shelter, tools for defending themselves and tools for determining directions. Along with some food and a few coins, they were to wrap these tools in a bandana bundle. They would need mental tools as well. They would need to be alert and shrewd. They would also need the ability to figure out the motives of complete strangers.

The blacksmith, and one of the most knowledgeable people on the plantation, was known as the "Monkey Wrench". He had strong and skillful hands and could communicate to the slaves by the rhythmic hitting of the hammer on the anvil. The "monkey wrench" might be loaned out to neighboring plantations, so he knew the lay of the land. This person was also very familiar with the daily operations of the plantation and would not awaken suspicion.

Frederick Douglass, a well known abolitionist, was a free black "monkey wrench". Discovered in his home in Cedar Hill, Washington D.C., was a Monkey Wrench family quilt.

Monkey Wrench was a person or group of people who turned the wagon wheel.

Borders...

2011-02-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

the bookstore that is. It is a sad day for our local greyhound adoption group. For the past 7 (or more) years, we have held monthly Meet & Greets at the Borders in Evansville, Indiana. As a matter of fact, that is where I was first introduced to these lovely creatures. Today it was announced that our store is one of the stores to close. We will have our last greet there on Sunday. It is indeed sad. I guess I will go and say my farewells...

Another project finished

2011-02-07T06:28:00.001-08:00

As part of my 2011 Bucket List, I am determined to get projects finished. My sister and I purchased this kit for our mom a couple of years ago. Good thing it had several years of stickers in it!!! It is one of those calendars that you flip the month then flip the days as well, so it can be used for a really long time. It had the calendar years up until 2012 (thank goodness she can use it for a couple of years anyway).

I had started it, then put it away. Then I found it buried in the back of my craft closet. Then I couldn't find the pictures. My procrastinating friends can probably relate to that. I hate it when I do that! So, I go to the computer and look at the Walgreens web site, and the pictures are still in my photo cart! Yikes, no wonder I couldn't find them, I never had them printed. Finished it up yesterday afternoon and got in the car and took it to mom. Another project finished. Sad part, it wasn't even on my list of stuff to finish. I had totally forgotten about it!

This Weekend's Project

2011-01-24T06:20:00.000-08:00

I just updated my Bucket List to include "finishing lots of projects". Like most sewers/quilters, I have lots of fabric. Eight plastic shoeboxes and four large plastic totes full of fabric. Before Christmas I labelled them with colors and what was in them. I even measured out larger pieces and put a note on them so I could use them for quilt backs. Sounds pretty organized, huh? Not really.

A freind of mine has a little quilt that she made out of toile. All colors. It was just a simple patchwork, but I love that quilt. I mean, I would steal it if the chance came about! So a couple of years ago, I was on a quest for toile. Not finding what I was after, I came across these two colors of fabric in a little quilt shop in Louisville. So I bought what they had. Not having a plan in the world for this fabric, I just took what they had.
Fast forward 2 years and I am in panic mode because I can't find any more fabric like this! Why do I do this to myself? I made all the 9 patch blocks that I could and came up with a total of 24. Now what? I really like this fabric. Kind of a shabby chic look. So here is the conversation between my daughter and myself:

Megan: Mom, that is really pretty. What are you going to do with it?

Mom: What do you mean? Like, have a plan for this finished quilt? Heck, I just buy the fabric that I love and wait to be inspired!

Megan: Really? I would think you would know what you are going to do with it.

Mom: You silly young thing! Just wait till the fabric bug bites you!

Megan: I really like that. Those colors are pretty!

Mom: You like it? You want it?(running into her room to clear off the bed and see how it looks) Hmmm, I could add several borders and it would fit that bed

Megan: Yeah, I do want it. I need a new quilt for my bed. You know the last one you made me was for High School graduation (2006).

Mom: Okay then! It's yours! (Thank goodness, someone wants it and it won't just lay folded in my pile of quilts that I have finished.)

Of course, I get one border around it and realize I miscalculated. I am 8 inches short of the last piece of polka dot. Grrrrr. I really wanted to get this done. Now I must go and purchase more fabric!!!

Back Door View

2011-01-20T09:46:00.000-08:00

This is the view from the back door this morning. It is snowing and supposed to continue to snow the rest of the day! Yippee!!! I got a snow day from my day job, now let's see if the library closes early due to the "incoming" weather. Funny thing here in Southern Indiana, if they even predict snow, the people freak out. They had already closed schools this morning before it even started snowing. I mean, come on.

Today's agenda has included a nice hot cup of coffee and lots of time in my sewing room. I haven't really been inspired to do much lately, so this change is welcome. I have four people doing the block of the month with me, so I mustn't let them down! Not to mention, I have TONS of UFO's (unfinished objects) in that room.

One of the things I would like to accomplish this year is to finish some projects. I am bad about getting to a certain point, then not finishing. Then when I go back and pick them up, it's like starting over! You sewers know what I mean. You buy fabric, start on a project, then realize you don't have enough fabric for said project. Then you go to try to buy more fabric only to find you have had the fabric for so long, they don't make it any more! Back to square one for sure!

Stay warm and dry my friends!

JANUARY BLOCK

2011-01-19T16:23:00.000-08:00

This will be the first post for those of you who are joining me in the Underground Railroad Block of the Month. Information and patterns are from the book "Quilt In A Day Underground Railroad Sampler" by Eleanor Burns and Sue Bouchard.

Each month, I will post the block that I have picked from the book along with the story that goes along with it. Also, there will be a picture of the block that I have made. My personal goal is to use fabric from my stash. That is, if it goes along with the civil war era. Feel free to use whatever fabrics you like, I just prefer the civil war era fabrics for this project. My intent is for this project to be fun. You can work at your own pace. Hopefully, by the end of the year, you will have twelve blocks to put together a quilt. If you only get a few done, you can always make a wall hanging or table runner.

So, here's the story!

Underground Railroad, also known as Jacob’s Ladder, the alternating path of dark and light fabrics cold be used to show the direction in which a “passenger” was to travel.

There is a story about a slave owner chasing a runaway slave. The slave owner swore the man vanished as if he had stepped on some kind of “underground railroad.” The idea of an Underground Railroad taking people north to freedom was used to describe the network of abolitionists and safe houses that helped slaves escape to Ohio and Canada. Safe houses along the way were known as “stations”. Those who guided the escapees were called “conductors”. The runaways themselves were called “passengers”.

Harriet Tubman was one of the best-known conductors on the Underground Railroad. She herself escaped from slavery and returned to the South a total of 19 times to bring over 300 fugitives to freedom. She never lost a single passenger. It was her mission to guide them through unknown lands and take care of their needs. She would tell them to wait in the woods while she went to the home of a friend to buy needed provisions. She would not return until nightfall, using a song to communicate safety or danger to those hiding in wait.

Reaching a “station” in the North meant food, clothing, and a place to hide when capture was imminent. But it did not yet mean freedom. The Underground Railroad took them all the way to Canada in some cases. Estimates are that as many as 100,000 people escaped slavery between the American Revolution and the Civil War.

Block of the Month...Change In Plans

2011-01-17T07:05:00.000-08:00

Okay friends, after much consideration, this is how it will work. If you are interested in participating in the Block of the Month (Quilts of the Underground Railroad) e-mail me at macmadday@aol.com. So far my interested friends are Cynthia, Teresa, Lizzieann and Bev. I had contacted Eleanor Burns to see if Icould get a release to use their materials and haven't heard back from them yet. Then, I tried to make my own directions, that didn't work so good either. I figured if I couldn't follow them, then no one else would either! So, I will post the story on the featured block along with a picture of my finished block and then I will e-mail you a copy of the instructions. If you have the book, let me know if you don't want me to send you the instructions. I did get my block done by following the directions in the book! My goal is to get this started on Thursday, which will be the 20th. Then each month, I will post on that same date! Hope to hear from you soon.

Underground Railroad Block of the Month

2011-01-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

There are several reasons I have decided to do this block of the month:

1. The Village Mercantile's Block of the Month this year isn't quite to my liking.

2. My daughter purchased this great book, Underground Railroad Sampler, for me

several years ago for Christmas.

3. I am trying to de-stash and finish some projects.

Block patterns. I will scan patterns from the book pictured above. So you will be reading actual instructions from the writer of this book. If you already have this book, then you can follow along in the book. If at any time you have any hints, suggestions or problems, let me know. This is my first attempt at anything like this, so bear with me. It is intended for fun, not to stress anyone out!

Fabric choices. Personally, I would like to use muted colors and fabrics from my stash. But I think it would be fun to use any fabric! However, I might just cave and get some civil war fabrics for this project. It will be interesting to see the different combos we can come up with. I also believe you could use fat quarters as well.

So stay tuned folks!

e-bay

2011-01-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

Just listed a few things on e-bay. A couple of them I had in a box for Goodwill and I thought, hey why not sell it? So I am going to try. The other item, a tin church bank, I had stuck in the closet and hadn't put it out forever. So we will see. See something you like, click on the picture and it will take you to e-bay!

Blog Block of the Month?

2011-01-06T20:44:00.000-08:00

Been thinking about something. I am not participating in the block of the month club at my local quilt shop this year. I wasn't really crazy about what she had picked out. Now I am willing to try new things, but I just didn't feel like putting all that time into something I wasn't crazy about.

So, here's my question. Are there any of my followers who would be interested in doing a block of the month with me on-line? You can invite your friends as well.

Always being fascinated with the civil war era, I think I will do a block each month pertaining to the quilts used for the underground railroad. My daughter bought me a book a couple of years ago and I haven't done anything with it!

My friend that I carpooled with for the last block of the month club are going to do this, so I thought I would see if anyone was interested. We are going to pick out our fabrics and do our blocks and not show each other until we have all of blocks done at the end of the year. It will be interesting to see how different our blocks will be.

Each month, I will post a picture of the block from the book along with the instructions. Then you then you choose your own fabrics. What do you think?

Thoughts for Today

2011-01-01T14:10:00.001-08:00

I was inspired by Jen at Prior Fat Girl to re-think why I started my whole weight loss journey. This has been weighing heavily (no pun intended) on my mind lately.

Most of you know that I reached my goal weight about 3 weeks ago. Since then, I have spiralled out of control. Not quite understanding why though. I mean I was dieting last year during the holidays and did just fine. As a matter of fact from Thanksgiving until Christmas 2009, I lost 9.8 pounds. I was walking down the path of destruction.

I am ashamed to even put this out there. But in the past 2 weeks, I gained 5.4 pounds. How did I let this happen? Honestly, I can tell you how. Chocolate chip cookies, gingerbread cookies, cupcakes, fudge. Anything sweet I could get my grubby paws on. Well, factor in a little a bit of stress and you have a recipe for destruction.

Seriously, I think I was also testing myself. I mean, the goal weight is what we have in our sights for so long, right? So excited to reach it. I will finally be done. NOT. Gaining that much weight so fast, I had a big reality check. Just because I reached my goal weight doesn't mean I am done. This just proved to me that this IS a lifelong change. Finally, I found it somewhere inside me to get my act together again. So pulling myself up by the boot straps, I managed to get back on track.

With so many things out of control in my life, I believe I started my weight loss journey because it is the ONE thing that I really can control.

Ornaments???

2010-12-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

Just wondering if there are any of you out there who have certain ornaments that they DO NOT put on the tree, but hang on to them year after year??? I have found myself getting tired of some of my ornaments. This is my oldest daughter Jennifer decorating the tree several years ago. I keep telling myself that I need to "down size" the ornaments. So as I was undressing the tree this year, I made a pile of ornaments that I have that I am not crazy about. There are no special ones in this pile. I figure if I can't remember where the ornament came from, it must not be very special. I think I will donate them to Goodwill. There will surely be some thrifter out ther that would love to have them!!!

A Little of My Christmas Decorating

2010-12-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

Pardon my lack of holiday posting. Here are a few shots of some of my Christmas decor. I just didnt' get around to taking many photos this year.
A little grouping on top of my bookcase. The little bear on the far right I made out of a coat of my grandmothers. The rest I purchased.

A view of one corner of my mantle. A couple of firkins that I picked up at an antique mall, then repainted them. Two of my favorite santas.

Part of my collection of paper mache santas. We used to make these for our wholesale line at the shop I work at. Molded with paper mache and using chocolate molds.

Just a few pictures I thought I would share. I would really like to try to do better next year with my posting. But I try not to make any resolutions!

My New Wheels!

2010-12-25T19:39:00.000-08:00

Got me a new set of wheels! No gears on this baby. Wide, white-wall tires and a big comfy seat! I'll be riding in style. Well, as soon as the snow disappears!

How Did I Get Here?

2010-12-19T19:48:00.000-08:00

I have been doing a lot of soul searching this past year. A lot. Part of my weight loss journey has made me face lots of things about myself. Things that I am not proud of. But, what's past is past, and I shouldn't dwell on it. Here are a few thoughts.

How did I get here? When I go to the Weight Watchers meetings, I hear lots of stories. Most of them are from women who have been heavy their entire life. As a child and then growing into a woman. Not me. I was skinny as a teenager. Tiny. Of course, I didn't see it that way as a teenager. I weighed 115 pounds when I got married.

So when did I get fat? You don't just wake up one day and you are fat. I can't put my finger on exactly when it happened. Clothes get tighter and you just go buy more. Slowly, you don't want to look in the mirror. You don't want your picture taken. You just don't look.

I have cheated myself out of so much the past 28 years. I can say that now. I wish I would have had someone to tell me that then. I look at my scrapbooks. There are pictures of everyone else but me. I mean someone had to take the pictures, right? Fact is, I didn't want to see myself. It might have made me do something about it. But, I have been unfair to my family. Someday, when I am gone, my girls are going to ask why there are no pictures of mom.

So, I don't know when I decided to open my eyes and look. Look at myself and decide it was time to do something. My journey is far from over. I have worked hard for over a year to reach my goal weight. Only to find that it is scary. Really, scarier than losing weight. Everyday is a struggle. I hope I continue to have the strength to keep it off!

My Baby Girl, All Grown Up

2010-12-14T07:02:00.001-08:00

So after about six weeks of depressing events, it's time for some celebrating!

My baby girl, Megan, graduated with her degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant on Saturday. Can't believe it. Both my girls grown up and graduated from college.

It seems like yesterday, when we sold our house in Greenfield, Indiana packed up our life and moved to Newburgh, Indiana. Megan was 10 days old when we moved. To say that I love my girls more than life itself would be an understatement. Them, and my pups, are what gets me out of bed everyday!

Congrats to my Doodlebug!

Cross that one off of my list!

2010-12-08T10:24:00.000-08:00

Today, I crossed another thing off of my 2010/2011 Bucket List. I made it to my goal weight. I have now lost 71.6 pounds. I have 6 weeks of maintenance and then I will become a Weight Watchers lifetime member. Wish me luck during the holidays!

My Newest Favorite

2010-12-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

My newest favorite Christmas decoration that is! My dad used to say this all the time. "When you stop believing in Santa, you get underwear! Christmas was his favorite time of year. Now my dad wasn't the typical dad. No, not at all. He did all the decorating. Inside and out. He did all the shopping, with the exception of what my mom bought to give him as his gifts. He did all the wrapping. Pretty exceptional man, don't you think? Yes, yes he was. So this one is for you Dad!

I Lost A Greyt Friend Today

2010-11-10T10:31:00.000-08:00

I am so sad right now. I lost my beloved greyhound, Dixie this morning. To get the whole story, click here.

Tomorrow Is A New Day

2010-11-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

Folks, I have fallen of the wagon, so to speak. I have had one hell of a week. I don't know what is wrong with me. I have worked so hard to get this weight off and I have totally blown it this past week. I haven't tracked my eating. I ate probably a dozen fresh baked cookies Sunday. Had pizza, candy, you name it. Now tomorrow I face the scale. I don't want to quit, I am just at a point where I am tired. Tired of watching what I eat. Tired of packing my lunch. Tired of walking. Just plain tired of it all. But I will weigh in and face the scale and start all over again. Tomorrow.

Bucket List

2010-10-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, another year is getting close to being done and I find myself looking back at all the "what ifs". So I have decided, I am making a bucket list for 2011. So I will be putting it out there on my side bar as a reminder. I will also be adding to this list as things pop into my pea brain. Things have happened this week that have me a little "pissed off"! So look out, cause when momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!

Lose For Good

2010-10-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

Weight Watchers is having a challenge right now. They are donating $1.00 for every pound that is lost during the period September 5th - October 23rd and they are asking that you donate a non-perishable item for every pound that you have lost. So over the past several weeks I have been purchasing canned goods to donate. Soooo, since I have lost 64 pounds now, I bought 60 canned goods, 2 pounds of pasta, 1 pound of rice and 1 pound of dried beans. Now I get to carry all that in to the meeting tomorrow. Of course, I should have no problem carrying that in, since I was carrying it on my body, right? Good thing I carpool! I can recruit them to help me!!!

A Little Something I Whipped Up

2010-09-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

Sorry the pictures aren't that great, can't quite figure this photography thing out yet. This is my latest Halloween project.

The old black globe came from a church basement sale last year for $1.00. It wasn't on a base, but it did have this metal rod going through the center. I had no idea what I was going to do with it when I purchased it, but it was just too cool to pass up. In the back of my mind I remembered seeing this metal witch silhouette in the attic of the shop where we display Halloween. My boss was generous enough to give it to me since it didn't have the stake. Next I made a little banner that says "Witch Way Dearie?" Used my ink pads to grunge it up a bit. Voila! Don't you love it? I know I do!!!

New Job

2010-09-14T18:15:00.000-07:00

Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library, my newest employer. I have been looking for a second part time job for a little bit now. My friend Teresa over at Plumwater Cottage has been keeping me updated as to when positions open up at the library. I put my application in several times and it finally paid off. I am an official bookshelver. Shelver of DVD's, CD's, Audio Books and New Release Fiction and Non-Fiction. I must say, I love this job! Show up at my specified time, do my assigned duties, and go home. Nothing like my day job where everything is a crazy, unorganized mess. The library is the place where everything has a specific place. Nice neat rows of books and movies. Aaaah! It still amazes me as to how many books there are in a library. The knowledge that is there is uncomprehendable. Perhaps I will absorb some of this knowledge by just touching the books!

A Couple of Projects FINISHED!

2010-09-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

Why does it seem that I have trouble finishing projects? You know, you get something almost done and put it down. Does this sound familiar to anyone? So before you know it, you are in a hurry to clean up your space and you put it in the back of your closet, or other out of the way space.

Here is my Halloween purse. I first posted about here. Crazy, I know. All I had to do was put the button on and hand sew up the lining. While we were on our weekly trip to Michaels and Joann's, I decided I was going to finish it this year and use it!

Found this really cool button made out of horn. Kind of hard to see in the picture.
Something else that has been bothering me forever, this ugly piece of plywood under my cabinets in the kitchen. So, I found some scrapbook paper that looks like crackled paint. Put double stick tape on the back to put it up. Cost was .75 cents. So when I get tired of it, I can just change it again.

These B-O-O letters have been a project in the works for a while too. Painted them black and used scrapbook paper on them too.

Is anyone else out there a procrastinator?

Weight Loss This Week

2010-09-01T10:16:00.001-07:00

I have been kind of slacking on posting my weight loss. So, on that note, as of today I am 60 pounds lighter!

Randomness

2010-08-31T06:08:00.000-07:00

Is randomness even a word. Oh well, these days I find myself at a loss for words. I started a dog blog thinking that might make me be more creative and have more things to post on this blog. That's not really working either. There is big family drama and I am feeling like I have a huge hole in my heart. I have never dealt well with any kind of confrontation. I was always the peacekeeper of the family. So after 49 (well, almost 49) years of trying to fix everything, I have stepped back. Probably the hardest thing I have ever done. So, here's to randmoness. This picture I snapped several years at a spot that overlooks the river in Rockport. I thought it looked like noses!

New Blog

2010-08-20T08:55:00.001-07:00

Since I seem to be posting a lot about my dogs lately, I decided to start a blog about my dogs. My own personal dogs and foster dogs. Maybe I can get creative and start posting about more exciting things here on this blog!

My New Foster

2010-08-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

Well friends, I know it has been a while, I apologize. Excited to let you all know that I am getting a new foster dog on Saturday. His name is Show Doggie. His foster family in Florida says he loves his people, cats and ear scritches! His favorite time is meal time, imagine that. Of course, he will fit in just right here! Looking forward to meeting my newest house guest Saturday. Oh yeah, in case you hadn't noticed, this is my 5th black foster. But I will love him just the same!

Business Idea

2010-08-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

This past week has me thinking about what I would like to do with myself. I really don't feel appreciated at my current job. I also don't look forward to going to work. So I found this really cool website and it got me thinking. Why couldn't I do this? It's called Lesley's Greyhound Playground. What a wonderful idea. You have people bring they dogs to you at your house! One price for greyhounds and a higher price for other breeds. Last Friday I had 6 dogs here during the day. I have also taken care of greyhounds for adopters who are going out of town. They always ask me, how much? My answer "just make a donation to the group". Who knows if they ever do. Then after several times watching my buddy Bluto, thinking I was doing them a favor, they return him (which he did get a new home last week!). So maybe I need to come up with a pricing schedule and see how it goes! What do you think?

A Little Observation

2010-07-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

My sister was hospitalized today with chest pains. She had a heart catheterization and has one artery 50% blocked. They needed something else to measure pressure in this artery to see if she needs a stint. I don't know if it was the meds or not, but she said some pretty "not-so-nice" things to me. So here is the conclusion that I came to today. I may not have always been the best (whatever, mother, sister, daughter) but I was the best that I could be at the time.

Bluto's Gettin' A Home!

2010-07-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

Good news everyone! My foster Bluto is getting a home! I absolutely adore this dog and wish I could keep him myself. But with 2 seniors and my heart dog Sadie, I just don't want to strap the budget. But tonight, he is going to his new home (hopefully his last). I will miss you buddy!

P.S. Leaving in the morning for Tennessee to visit with a good friend. I know I will have lots of bloggin' to catch up on when I return.

Heritage Scrapbook

2010-07-12T19:29:00.001-07:00

I finished (on Sunday evening) the last 2 pages of my scrapbook just in time to exhibit it in our local county fair (on Monday morning). Just thought I would share with you my very favorite page in the book. This picture is of my grandmother. I did this one all by myself! I love how it turned out.

I went to the fair tonight to find out that I got a blue ribbon and a grand champion on my Heritage Album!

My Dream!

2010-07-06T16:21:00.001-07:00

As some of you know, I have been dreaming of moving my storage shed closer to the house. I would love to use it as a studio/getaway. I was inspired recently by My Shabby Streamside Studio.

It is chocked full of stuff. By the time I walk 50 feet to the shed, I usually toss it in and go back to the house.

Something is inhabiting the shed. Any guesses on who left this present for me?

It is about 10 feet by 10 feet and has a really big loft. It is full of wood for woodworking projects. Flower pots, extra dog kennels, the kids rocking chairs. All kinds of stuff.

My friend Teresa of PlumWater Cottage wants to help me move it. Dear husband isn't so inclined to help out right now. Do you think we are crazy?

I'm Still Here Guys!

2010-06-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

I know I have been MIA again. I love reading everybody's blogs every morning before I get my day started. I just have been uninspired to post anything lately.

Weight loss is going slow. I hate that part. I did go for my physical a couple of weeks ago and the doc was really impressed. I was even more impressed when I got my blood work results back. Cholesterol is now 163. Last year it was over 240! Bad news, the thyroid is still messed up. My dose had stayed the same for almost 6 months and now we are back to trying to get it regulated. That does mess with your weight too. I have been soo tired, like dragging cement blocks around on your feet tired. She did more blood work to see why that is and so far nothing is giving us a reason. Blood pressure, still the same, and still on the pills. I doubt I will ever get off of them since my mom and her mother both had high blood pressure. Enough of that.

This is what I have been working on lately. My Heritage Scrapbook. I did it several years and was never really happy with the results. So I started over. I am trying to get it done to exhibit at the 4-H Fair. Anyway, enjoy the pictures of my album. I am still trying to figure out how to photograph them. All photos are my family in some way. I made copies of the original photos since I didn't want to alter them.

These photos are baby pictures of my grandfather (lower right corner) and my great-grandfather. I also found this old xerox copy of the page out of a family bible that contains their names. It was in really rough shape, so I grunged it up to make it look even worse!

These photos are of my grandfather and his siblings. The white card is from the funeral of one of his sisters. It is so sad to read, but the artwork is amazing.

This is defintely a staged photo. But I think it is hilarious. I believe the man in the lower right corner to be my relative, my great-great uncle, I think. Enjoy. I will try to post more later.

Veggies!

2010-05-20T19:28:00.001-07:00

In between vet appointments today, I did manage to get my veggies planted. Rain was in the forecast, so I had to act quickly. I didn't really want to plant much, but you at least need a few tomato plants, right? So here's what I planted.

Rutgers Tomatoes-9 plants. I figure I will lose a few to the bunnies! Bonniebell Peppers-1 plant. My husband loves stuffed peppers. Cayenne Peppers-1 plant. It has been years since we dried them and used them for chili.

I went out to the shed and found my old reliable granite pot that I used to use for canning. I am excited to get back to some basics this summer. I want to fill up my pantry with pretty jars of canned veggies!

Apology...

2010-05-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

My dear bloggin' friends, I must apologize for my lack of posting lately. These days find me in a bit of a funk. My oldest daughter went in for her 2nd ultrasound a week ago Friday and there was no more heartbeat. During her first ultrasound, the heartrate wasn't as fast as the doctor liked, so they scheduled another ultrasound about 10 days later. There was no heartbeat on this day. So she had a D&C the next Tuesday. Things are kind of sad around here these days.

Plus, I didn't realize how long my arms were! I continue to beat myself up about EVERYTHING. I am constantly angry. I can't seem to get anything accomplished. Not to mention, I am seriously lacking motivation these days. I have been visiting my favorite blogs every day. But still no inspiration.

Anyway, I do appreciate my followers. I am not sure which direction my bloggin' will go, but hopefully I will soon find something to motivate me.
I pulled this picture out of the archives. It is a rock formation on the Ohio River down by Rockport. I think it looks like noses.

A Thought for the Day

2010-05-12T04:48:00.001-07:00

Getting there is hard-going back is easy. I have been thinking about this for a while now. Gettiing there, meaning my goal weight, is hard. Very hard. I have had to make some serious lifestyle changes and break some very old habits. Going back, meaning back to my old chubby self, would be easy. Very easy. I mean seriously, I could eat like there is no tomorrow. Not give a thought what I put in my mouth. Believe me, I think about this all the time.

But there is NO going back. I don't ever want to be that person again. I realize now that I don't think I really liked myself much. Slowly, but surely, I am starting to like myself again. I can try on clothes now and actually look at myself. WOW! I still don't necessarily like what I see, but at least I will look at myself in the mirror.

I do still see myself as 51.6 pounds heavier. Did I just say that? That's it, 51.6 pounds, my total lost to date. Twenty more to go. I saw a picture of myself that my daughter took of me last week. Is that really me?

This is one of my ex-foster dogs Dave. He got adopted in February. He lived with us for 9 months and I do miss him. It was good to see him again. Someone came up to me and said "have you lost an obscene amount of weight?" Why yes, I guess that's what you could call it! Obscene.

Block of the Month

2010-05-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

This year I am participating in a Block of the Month at The Village Mercantile. I wasn't sure how I would feel about only doing one block each month. Normally when I get on a roll, I want to finish something. We meet on the first Saturday of each month and the starting fee was $5.00. Bring your completed block the next month and you get the next month's block free. It is possible to have all twelve blocks done by the end of the year and you only pay $5.00. So far, I have been able to get my block done each month. These are all Civil War Fabrics.

January

February

March

April

and May. I already got my block sewn and ready for the first Saturday in June!

Great Sunflower Project

2010-05-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

A fellow homemaker brought us each a packet of Lemon Queen sunflower seeds to our meeting last night. Did you know the Great Sunflower Project is looking for people who are willing to grow the annual sunflower "Lemon Queen"? Once the sunflower is blooming, time how long it takes for five bees total --honey or bumble--to stop by for a visit. The data will be used by scientists to monitor bee populations in different areas of the country. You can find out more information about the project and sign up online at www.greatsunflower.org. So pick up a packet of seeds today!

A Great Weekend

2010-05-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

What a weekend! We went back to Greenfield, Indiana for my neice's wedding. We moved to Southern Indiana 22 1/2 years ago when my husband changed jobs. We haven't been back since we moved away. I mean we have visited family in surrounding cities, but not back to Greenfield. My goodness, that town has changed. We took the girls back to show them our first home and the home we last lived in before we moved. We hardly could find our way that town has gotten so big!

Here are the cousins. From left to right: My oldest daughter and the mother of my future grandchild, Jennifer. The bride, my neice, Crystle. My youngest daughter, Megan. Then the baby of the cousins, Sierra. It was great to get to catch up and enjoy the wedding. I said when we took this picture, I wish I had the money that is invested in orthodontics so these girls could have such beautiful smiles!

2010-04-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

This week, another pound gone. I put this weight loss ticker on my blog to try to help me remain inspired. At Weight Watchers, when we do celebrations, I always have trouble when they put me on the spot. She asks if people are starting to notice? I guess they are. Even though I have nothing in my closet, because my clothes are too big. I still can't really see it. Why can't I tell that 45 pounds are missing? I just can't visualize myself being thin. What's up with that?

Chicken Taco Soup

2010-04-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

I made this yummy soup the other day. It is so good. Even better if you top it with a little shredded cheese and some Baked Tostitos.

Crock Pot Taco Soup

3 Chicken Breasts

1 small onion, diced

1 package taco seasoning mix

1 package dry Ranch dressing mix

1 can Rotel tomatoes

1 can diced tomatoes

1 can kidney beans

1 can black beans

1 can vegetarian baked beans

1 can northern beans

1 can corn

Place chicken in bottom of crock pot. Add remaining ingredients, see * below. Don't stir. Cook all day on low temperature. Take the chicken out and shred with 2 forks. Put back in pot, stir and serve.

*When adding all canned ingredients, do not drain. They do however, drain the black beans and kidney beans then fill the can back up with water.

Points value=1 per 1 cup serving.

My Creamer Collection

2010-04-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago, my boss got me interested in these little creamers. I don't know why, but I think they are so cute! At Christmas time I put bottle brush trees in them and put them in my kitchen window. I still have lots of space on my shelf, so now I am always looking for these little babies.

Havin' A Bad Day

2010-04-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

Today has been in the toilet. I was tired when I got up and it went downhill from there. I saw a funeral procession today and burst into tears. It has been 2 1/2 years since my dad died. He would be so excited about his first grandbaby becoming a momma. Does it ever get any easier?

Guess What?

2010-04-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

I finally did it! 40 pounds gone! When I was bringing this bag of dog food in the house yesterday, I realized that I have been carrying this (plus more) around. I could hardly pick it up. My goodness, no wonder my joints are hurting. So to visualize, here is a picture of a 40 pound bag of dog food.

Rowe Pottery

2010-04-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

I finally got this little cabinet repainted and hung back up. This collection was put out by Rowe Pottery several years ago. They made one piece every month and they are replicas of bigger pieces of pottery that they have produced. No kidding, it took me over a year to get this project done. I don't know why I am such a slacker sometimes!

A Good Dog...

2010-04-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

Some of you may remember my buddy, Bluto. He used to come to our house for a "sleepover" while his family is away. Well...some of you may know where this is going, he is being returned to the group. It appears his family is just "too busy" for him. I AM SO PISSED RIGHT NOW!!! This poor dog was returned the first time because his owner got diagnosed with breast cancer. The second time, his owner became seriously ill and lost their job. Now the third time, just because they are "too busy"! I really misjudged this family on this one. I mean, they loved this dog, right? I read that e-mail and immediately became physically ill. I shook for about 6 hours. How can this be? So, he will be dropped off here tomorrow evening. This is the most familiar place for him. So hopefully that will make it easier for him. Bluto will be staying with us for a while...climbing down from my soapbox now.

Thrift Store Find

2010-04-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

I have been running in and checking out the thrift stores on the way to my mom's house. I hadn't been very lucky until I found this little goodie at the Salvation Army Store. I was thinking I had lost out again, and I found this tucked away on the bottom shelf, almost out of sight. The bargain price, $3.99! Well, at least I thought it was a bargain. It holds recipe books and then the little drawers will be used for some kind of storage. Then, off to Target to purchase the new Hungry Girl cookbook last Tuesday. This is a must have. There are some really good recipes in there!

Oh my goodness, I almost forgot to tell you! I am going to be a grandma. My oldest daughter is expecting. She goes to the doctor the 23rd so I guess more info to follow!

Scamp

2010-03-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

While staying at Mom's today, I went through some old pictures. This is a picture of my childhood dog, Scamp. She was my buddy and lived to the ripe old age of 16! Not much else being accomplished but dreaming. I don't get much done watching Mom, but that's okay. We enjoyed the lovely weather this afternoon and I got her to sit outside on the porch with me. She is still very weak, but today I saw some improvement. Today's weight loss was 2 pounds and I am .6 away from my 40 pound mark!

Give Away Time

2010-03-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hop on over to I'm Just A Guy Who Quilts for a really cool give away. If you have never visited Ryan's blog before, you should. He is quite a talented young man. Man can he sew! So, get on over there and check him out!

Another Week Gone!

2010-03-26T15:56:00.001-07:00

OMG! Where did this week go? Mom came home from the hospital on Tuesday. I think it was too soon, but then they didn't ask me. So I am staying with mom while my sister is at work. I am getting a little bored. I took some knitting and other stuff to do, but I haven't really gotten anything accomplished. Totally bummed about this week's weight loss. I actually gained 1.2 pounds. First time since October. Honestly, I don't even know how that happened. Sorry no photo today.

Friday Update

2010-03-19T18:36:00.000-07:00

Mom is doing great! She got moved to a regular room this afternoon. The only tube she has connected to her is the drain from her incision. I am totally amazed at her progress. I am totally in awe of how the body can recover from something so major as open heart surgery. I was able to do a little thrift store shopping in between visits. I will try to get pictures tomorrow. This picture is a cute little halloween pillow that I finished up a couple of weeks ago. She is pulling a banner behind her that says "Happy Halloween". On the weight loss front I have lost 38.6 pounds as of Wednesday.

Mom Update

2010-03-17T07:57:00.000-07:00

Finally after 12 hours in the OR, mom was moved to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. The doctor said she did great. Her heart was really strong. We got to visit for about 5 minutes. Next visitation, 8:30 a.m. this morning, she looks so much better. Swelling is going down. Now if we can get the breathing tube out, she will be so much more comfortable. Getting ready to go back to hospital. Visiting hours are every 2 hours from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Looks like another long day. But things are definitely looking up!

Waiting at the Hospital

2010-03-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

Well friends, I have been awake since 4:00 A.M. We had to be at the hospital for mom's surgery at 5:00 A.M. Wow, it is only 8:30 and I am exhausted. The status board says she is still in pre-op. Man, this is going to be a long day.

I did get a few projects wrapped up this weekend. I was trying to stay busy last night and even got my sewing room cleaned up.

I remembered to take my camera on my walk the other day and snapped this picture of the crocus blooming. Spring is coming!

My New Favorite Book

2010-03-12T18:07:00.000-08:00

I have been making some little quilts from this book. I love it! I am working on the pink and green one right now. I already made the little bow tie quilt. There are so many cute little quilts in this book. I would love to make them all!

On the weight loss home front I am up to 34.8 pounds. Just 1 pound away from the half way point. I have been kind of slowing down lately. This week has been especially stressful. My mother will be having open heart surgery next Tuesday. So the nerves have kicked in. I am trying to get a few small projects going to take to the hospital with me. Say a little prayer for my momma!

New Washing Machine???

2010-03-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

Well folks, today the washer quit. I came home from the hospital after my mom's heart catheterization to find the laundry room floor flooded. The washer is about 10 years old. So I am in the market for a new washing machine. My friendly washing repair man had the hubby look under there and we found oil. So, unfortunately, it isn't worth fixing. Here is what I REALLY want.

Sadie's Test Results

2010-02-26T06:54:00.000-08:00

I was catching up this morning and realized I hadn't shared Sadie's test results. The original lump that they found came back a grade 1. The second lump they found came back a grade 2. I was really upset with myself when the bandage came off and I saw where the stitches were for lump #2. I had noticed this spot about the size of a pencil eraser a couple of weeks ago. Nothing really out of the ordinary, or so I thought. The hair had fallen off of the spot and the skin was pink. It is really hard to tell with greyhounds because they have such thin skin and the always have some kind of bump or scrape, especially on their legs. So we will watch her very closely, checking for lumps regularly. If they do come up, they will have to be removed pretty quickly. Stitches come out today or Monday.

Mom goes for her first round of Pulmonary testing today. Then heart cath on Monday. Say a prayer for her! I am going to get some projects lined up to work on while we are waiting for her during these procedures. Hopefully, I will get something done. I know I haven't been very creative lately...

Things to Come

2010-02-24T20:34:00.000-08:00

Well today was a long one. We took my mother back to the cardiologist. She goes in Friday for Pulmonary testing. Monday she will have a heart catheterization and an echocardiogram where they go down the throat to look at the heart from the inside. Then back to the cardiologist on Wednesday. We will know definitely then what we are up against. We know for sure there is an aneurism that is 5.5 cm in diameter. That has got to get taken care of. The other tests will show whether or not there is any blockage that will require by-pass surgery. Keep your fingers crossed for good results!

This picture is of my Tom dog. He was laying on the couch and had his head under this throw. What a silly boy.

Weight watchers this week I lost 1.8 pounds for a grand total of 32 pounds. I have gotten excited about trying on clothes. But I haven't really done that yet. I am kind of scared to. My clothes are finally getting too big. I am holding out for capri weather to buy some new stuff!

All my friends be praying for my momma!

This is Pittiful

2010-02-16T18:37:00.001-08:00

My poor baby girl. Sadie had her surgery this morning. They found another lump and aspirated it and found mast cells in it as well. So both of her legs are bandaged. The poor girl. She slept for a couple of hours and then she was pretty uncomfortable. Finally the pain meds kicked in and she was able to lay down. This picture doesn't quite show, but she is sleeping with her head in the air. I was hoping she would lay her head on the dog bed. The pathology tests will tell us what degree the tumors are and what the outlook might be. I think this is going to be a long week...

A Couple of Updates

2010-02-14T18:42:00.000-08:00

First of all, I wanted to let my bloggin' buddies know that I hit my 30 pound mark this week. I have lost 30 pounds since October 21st. I kind of had a bit of a standstill the past few weeks. About 40 more to go.

Second, my foster Dave went to his forever home yesterday. He has been with us since May 19th. Man that one was tough. But he is going to someone who will love and spoil him rotten. I will be taking a break from fostering for a while. Mom will most likely be having heart surgery, so one less to take care of right now will be better.

Thirdly, my Sadie will be having surgery on Tuesday. We went for a routine pedicure on Friday and they found a small lump on her left rear leg. They did a needle aspiration and it came back as a mast cell tumor. With her heart issues, this will be a risky procedure. So I will leave her in the hands of my trusty vet. Keep your fingers crossed for my girl!

Holy Scraps!

2010-02-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

For several years now, I have been cutting up my leftover bits of fabrics into 2" or 2 1/2" strips. I had a big box full of them and decided to make a quilt out of my scraps. The fabric that I used in betweein the rows is a teeny tiny black and tan check. So here it is!

Skunk!

2010-02-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

Well much to my surprise this morning around 4 a.m. I woke up to the most horrendous smell ever. I had let the dogs out and about 5 minutes after they were back in the house, the smell drifted to my nostrils. I sniffed the dogs to see if it was them, but all I could smell was the skunk smell. I looked around outside and saw nothing. But the smell said differently. Normally if the dogs see something, they want back outside, but not this time. So I went back to sleep, with a hankie over my nose so I couldn't smell anything. Got up this morning and it seemed better. So off I go to run my errands. Come back a couple hours later and open the front door and wham-o, there is the smell again. So I am starting to think it is under the porch or the shed or inside the box around the chimney. It has to be somewhere for it to smell like this. I am almost sick to my stomach and have a horrible headache. Went to Wal-Mart to purchase peroxide, baking soda and other things I found online for remedies. As soon as hubby gets home, we get to bathe 4 dogs. Wish me luck! If these remedies work I will post the recipes. If you have any suggestions, feel free to leave me a comment.

2010-02-03T16:31:00.000-08:00

So today at the Weight Watchers meeting, it was suggested that we picture something in the future. For example, what we think being slimmer might look like. Bummer I only lost .4 of a pound this week. It got me thinking...I have 2 weddings in May. I am imagining a new dress. I would love to be able to pull off something sleeveless, although this might not happen. It has been many, many years since I wore something without sleeves. So here are a couple of pictures that I found. I would love to be able to wear either one of these!

Think Spring

2010-02-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

I find my thoughts mostly about warm weather these days. Here is a little eye candy for you today. My daughter took this picture this summer of one of our Gerbera Daisies. I thought it was quite good.

We live kind of out in the country. So tonight while I am reading my favorite blogs, I hear this howling. So I mute the television and it is a choir of coyotes. Now I have heard these coyotes before, but I swear tonight it sounds like they are right outside the door! Normally I don't get creeped out by these things, but this really shook me up. I will be keeping a close on the pups tonight when they go out for their potty.