Funky Stamping Time

Thoughts are all you've got.

2012-01-27T09:27:00.000-05:00

Ah yes, I awoke this morning remembering that today, January 27 is my dearest granddaughter, Kori's 21st birthday, ah well would have been. Twenty-one years ago today, I so remember where I was and what I was doing and even amidst an unhappy time, she put some sunshine into my life.
It was a Sunday, and the sun was shining when I got to the hospital. It truly was a beautiful day.
"Sunday's child is full of Grace!" and yes she was.
Today, the first birthday without her is not sunny nor is the sun shining, it is gray, dreary and snowing.
My prayer now is that she finds peace and has "HAPPY" Thoughts, because thoughts is all we have in reality. Once the body is gone, there is only thoughts and all the 'crap' that we think is real is wrong. Things are 'crap'. Mean, angry, sadness, mean wishes, envy, malice, hate, are all too real for they are thoughts and unless we change our thoughts, we will live with them for eternity and that is a hell of a long time even if there isn't time.
All we should really want is happiness, truth, and peace. If we have those three things all else will fall into place.
All I want is peace, truth and happiness.
And so it is!

2012

2012-01-02T14:26:00.001-05:00

Well is this going to be the end of the world? Your guess is as good as mine at this point. Did the Mayans or Aztecs - which were they - know what they were talking about or just an end of an era of calendar makers?
Someone asked me about 1999 being the end of the world, of course not, remember your prayers, "World without end!" Amen! lol.
Oh pooh, we've had these things come and go, I may be wrong, but I don't think this year is going to be any better or more miserable than any other year.
So, make the best of it yourself and Happy New Year!

Nothing Old, Nothing New

2011-12-30T05:48:00.001-05:00

Ah yes, it is true, the only thing old is the (almost) end to this miserable year. God, it has been a long hard one here, I truly hope yours was better than ours. Just 2 more days and we can dump this one into the "Miserable Years Hall of Fame" and I will be the first one to vote for 2011!
Now, on to how our Christmas went! Well, it too was pretty miserable. Nobody, not even me put much effort into it. I went shopping once shortly after Thanksgiving for my lovely D-M-I-L and S-I-L s but other than that I did my shopping online even for my grandson whose parents were too busy to take him shopping for his grandparents. All we got was a gift card for a restaurant from all three of them in a little paper bag. The old saying "it is the thought that counts" went out the door forever here in my mind as there was no thought in that at all except maybe a bit of guilt.
merry Christmas as my one friend would say if you know what I mean.
Now, we went to dinner last night at Olive Garden with Mom Millie, Sandy, Kathy and Bob and it was probably the most enjoyable evening of the season. The reason perhaps for that was that our waitress, threw away our order and 1/2 hour later came back to retake it and didn't even off us a sample glass of wine for our trouble. It will be a cold day in hell before I go back there. She kept apologizing for the error, but sometimes sorry just doesn't cut it. If I had been paying for the meal, I probably would have told the clerk but DSIL is always so sweet that she didn't even mention it. The cloak of invisibility is still covering the "Funks"!
OK, that's it. I cannot complain anymore or I just might throw my coffee into this machine.
Happy 2012! It cannot come soon enough!

Christmas Time ?????

2011-12-15T10:05:00.000-05:00

Well, now less then 10 days until Christmas. I've all my shopping done and just need to get my cookies baked. Today, I'm making my refrigerator dough and tomorrow my little grandson is coming over to make cutouts. On Tuesday next week, my friend Barb is coming over and we are going to have 3 pizzelle irons going and then make some Christmas cards for special people.
I guess I shouldn't be such a Scrooge and wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

December, 2011

2011-12-07T09:10:00.000-05:00

Christmas, Christmas hurry fast and get over!
Nothing done yet except DH has his train and little Christmas tree set up on the deck. Now, that we have Ms Boots I probably will not have a regular large tree this year and probably for the best considering the circumstances. I'm not looking forward to Christmas Eve for our traditional Clam Chowder and there probably wouldn't be a box of candy mysteriously missing like last year.
OK no crying today at least not for the first hour of dawn. And it certainly needs to lighten up outside, the gray is 12 hours long and it isn't even Winter yet.
Here is the new project I'm going to be working on for a while because I frustrated with all my sewing machines and waiting for a new bobbin case to get here.

I figure that perhaps a bit of crocheting will do me good and I can do it while watching television. I also have several hand appliques to work on and a whole quilt to hand quilt this winter. So guess I'll just sit and wait for the snow to come and make me more depressed than I am.

If you do not have kids, DON'T it is too cruel and too heartbreaking.

Until tomorrow, if the good Lord willing and the creek don't rise anymore than it already has.

See you, Bye!

And so it is Thanksgiving, 2011

2011-11-24T04:34:00.000-05:00

Not much going on here today. I'm up and getting ready to start "Dad Funk's Dinner Rolls" for dinner at Mom Funk's at noon.
I'm cooking our turkey tomorrow and our friend, Kay, will join us for dinner.
I didn't even ask my kids what they were doing for today and frankly, "Scarlett" , I don't give a damn. I start and finish all and any holiday that I want to give memories, good food and good times. It has been my "ideal" holiday vision so everyone should be happy, well fed and content at the end of the day. BUT, did it or does it really matter. Hell no, it doesn't. For it is clear to me that if I do not start the suggestion, nobody else does either, so for the first time in almost 50 years, I'm not working hard today. I'm going to make the rolls in the bread machine and that is it. No pies to bake, we will probably be eating 'store bought pumpkin pie' and pre-basted turkey, but I know that my dinner rolls will be real and delicious.
Speaking about delicious, I'd better get at them.
Oh, here is a picture of my latest 'Mystery Quilt' I finished the top on Tuesday and when I get the one error corrected this weekend, it will be ready for a border. One of the gals at AQS, gave me the idea for the name " For Purple Mountains Majesty" and so it is!

A OK

2011-11-18T22:07:00.001-05:00

Well tonight my friend Valerie and I cut out and scored 20 Tissue box covers and set up the project for Christmas to start on after Thanksgiving.
I download WinXP and Virtual PC after updating my OS to Win7 Premium. I should have did that in the first place but got a really good deal at Amazon.com
Getting ready for Thanksgiving dinner at Mom Millie's,I'm making Dad Funk's dinner rolls and that is about all. I really wanted to make a new outfit, however; I don't know if I will have time with all the other things I have planned for next week.
I also want to get a new background made for here but things just do not work out as I plan anymore.
The Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise I'll be back tomorrow.

New Computer and Windows 7

2011-11-17T07:04:00.001-05:00

Holy Cow! The new computer is wonderful but Windows 7 is the nightmare from Hell and I'm not exaggerating on bit. All the money and time I've invested in graphics programs and other things are not compatible so I've just spent 10 years and more of my life learning to do things that I've enjoyed and now I can take another friggin' 5 years to learn other things just to be able to navigate around the NEW and IMPROVED Windows.
I think I've figured out why all the radical changes have occurred.
1. Bill Gates retired - the work horse of the computing world.
2. All the other yoyo's at Microsoft are just plain friggin' lazy and dumb. Note I didn't say stupid, just plain and simple DUMB.

Why? Go ahead and ask me Why?
Why?
I'll tell you why. Windows XP had security holes that they were just too friggin' lazy to fix, so they dump the things that had the holes or they DIDN'T want to fix or were too dumb to fix such as OE and other things that could be compatible with all computers. Like I said, plain and simple - Lazy and Dumb!
And then they charge an outrageous price for the upgrade and sell it to all the computer manufacturers to put on the new machines without offering a choice.
Now, Mr. Gates was a smart business man, but he sure hired some jerks and con artists. I've seen that before many times.
Someone has a brilliant project, and makes tons, then turns around and either sells it to the highest bidder or retires and leaves it to a favorite son who they had spoiled in the first place.
Jasc the developers of PaintShopPro, did that to Corel and now Corel has eliminated the competition and totally destroyed a wonderful graphics program. The same will happen to Microsoft - Mark my words! One November 17, 2011 you read it here, by November 17, 2021, Microsoft now a household name will be replaced by a new and innovative computer program company probably from Iran (oil money)or some other distant land and no longer be "American made".
Furthermore, if we don't elected someone other than the "progressive" party including President Obama come next year we may all very well not be at all "American Made". I really hate to admit that I'm conservative and say that we need more conservative values, and that we should have never let President Reagan allow NAFTA (I think that is it). Yup that's it! We probably wouldn't be in this mess now. Give one for the Giffer!
Unfortunately, Mr. Obama is no Giffer! Mr. Obama is just a snot nose kid.
OK now I'm off to the Sewing Loft to stitch out my frustrations.

November's Here!

2011-11-05T17:20:00.000-04:00

Goodness, almost Turkey Time. Do you know what your are thankful for this year?
This has been the worse year that I've had in the past 20 years. Even the cancer years didn't seem this bad, oh well as they say, "Life Goes On". Oh Yeah, Life goes on and on and on.
Been busy during the month of October. Started and finish another Mystery Quilt or at least the top to one and awaiting the next installment of the second one on Monday, alas, I would be home. A day trip is planned to pick up a train and see my friend out of town.
Oops, got go and let my girlie dog out to bark at the church bells. She sings a real pretty song when they ring at 6 pm :o)
Mystery Quilt V from Quilter's Club of America:

and the new one

from

American Quilter's Society

This one looks like Christmas and I'm hoping to be done by then.

I'm thinking I'll add a lime cording to the binding of the top one to go with the lime in the quilt. I also, think I'll call it "In Search of Dinosaurs.

Really, need to finish some of the UFOs I have started, actually I did work on one this past week. Then a friend brought over an old quilt that she wishes me to finish called "The Tree of Life". It is a pattern from the 30's and the original quilter has about 20 blocks done and another 20 cut out so it will be a pretty big undertaking to say the very least. Am I up to it? Well I really do not know, but I'll give it my best.

Time now to play some Plants verse Zombies.

Let not your heart be troubled!

Until the morrow!

World Hello Day

2011-10-25T09:34:00.000-04:00

World Hello Day!
Woke up with a headache this morning that would not go away and I know what caused it. Nicotine yes nicotine, I order an electric cigarette and boy am I overdosing :o) I didn't realize what an effect it had on me until I did this. Benefits, first I need to reduce the amount per cylinder and make sure I do not over do it. It is odorless, and the smoke is a water vapor, so it does stain anything, and finally, it is not HOT which eliminates burning holes in everything or starting fires.
If you are interested you can get it here:
http://www.v2cigs.com/ and if you use this code, you get an additional 15% off your order which pays for your shipping.
In the promo or coupon enter: 366397 And it gives me credit for my next order.
Thank you for your support.
xoxoxo!

Monday Again

2011-10-24T23:09:00.000-04:00

Received the fabric to start the Mystery Quilt from AQS. I'm already a week behind and do not know when I will be getting at it. I'm not much in the mood to do much of anything. It is almost like "I don't give a damn!" about much of anything. Well that is about all around here except that I almost have all my Summer clothes put away and the Winter clothes ready for the really cold weather. I really don't care much about that either.
Happy Halloween!

It is Mystery Quilt Time

2011-10-18T09:07:00.000-04:00

What better to go with a new mystery quilt, but home baked rolls and doughnuts. Yum!
Yesterday morning I was up around 7 and started with Dad Funk's Rolls. The recipe was found in the midst of some cookbooks that Ma Funk gave to DH when she moved into her smaller house. These are fabulous rolls and would be wonderful when made into Caramel sticky buns or an fabulous Orange Roll. mmmm good!

Then this morning, I got up thinking it was really early, don't know if I read the clock wrong or if it was really earlier than I thought, anyway, off to the kitchen I go again and this time using the leftover mashed potatoes from Sunday dinner, I whip up "Diane's Potato Doughnuts". The story behind these little beauties is really cool.
My first husband, now deceased, wanted potato doughnuts. We had traveled down state to Chambersburg or somewhere like that and had Glazed Raised Potato Doughnuts made by the Amish and they were really yummy.
He mentioned it to a friend at work who told him that his wife had a recipe for potato doughnuts. My boys love this recipe and several time actually thought I had lost it. I also laugh at the note that Diane left for my husband on the hand written recipe. Both of these recipes have to be made by someone who has a workable knowledge of baking and cooking - so don't get burned or hurt or upset if you need to use your brain to do these. So if you need to use up those leftover mashed potatoes from Sunday dinner, here is the perfect way!

Dad Funk’s Dinner Rolls

In a small sauce pan heat ½ cup of milk, 3 Tbsp. butter and 3 Tbsp. sugar.(DO NOT BOIL) – cool to lukewarm.

In a measuring cup (glass preferred) mix ¼ cup warm water and 1 pkg. yeast

In your bread maker set at dough, add all the ingredients and 1 egg slightly

beaten and 3 cups of flour.

When bread maker is done, shape into rolls and place in a well greased pan and let rest for approximately 10 minutes.

Bake @ 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or golden brown.

Brush with butter and remove from pan to cool.

Diane’s Potato Doughnuts

1 cup cold mashed potatoes

1 cup sugar

1 cup milk

4 tsp baking powder

½ tsp nutmeg

2 eggs

½ tsp salt

2 Tbsp melted shortening

1 tsp vanilla

Combine all ingredients except baking powder and beat at medium speed.

Add flour, it takes about 3-1/2 to 4 cups at this time add the baking powder

Mix well, but not over beating. Roll out on well floured board, or push out

like pizza dough. Cut with doughnut cutter, deep fry until dark golden brown.

Coat with plain granulated or powder sugar to your liking.

There, give those a try and invite me over for coffee.
Then there is the Mystery Quilt. Well, I'm on Step 4 & 5 and ready for next Friday. The more I work on this the better I like the colors and pattern of the fabrics. I'm also finding out that I love working with Batiks. The cut pieces hold their shape and once ironed they pretty much stay that way.

Saturday Morning

2011-10-08T10:44:00.000-04:00

Remember Saturday mornings when you were young and a working mom? Ah yes, the leisure breakfast then the fight to get anyone to help you do the weekly housework so we all would have some time to play during the weekend.
It is often too funny watching TV and seeing all these spotless houses with the swiffer sweepers, and all the food commercials with the paper towel one wipe clean up... Oh, wouldn't it be lovely if it were that easy! There is only one house that is that neat that I know of and that is my ex-daughter-in-law's. Tracey's house is always spotless and everything has a place. Me, well I live here almost 24-7 and I'm a collector, I will not say hoarder, I don't know why I don't but I get spurts and then I start throwing. I am almost there and once I start there will be no stopping me.
OK, DH is giving the dogs a bath, seems Ms Boots brought a whole circus with her, that is a FLEA CIRCUS for sure and it is driving everyone nuts including me. You see when you are not well, bugs know it, be it mosquitoes or FLEAs, and the bite me like nobody business.
OK, he needs help.
See you late, Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

All Right a new Mystery Quilt is

2011-10-07T11:55:00.000-04:00

Started. Now this morning I put the first sewing into it. It took a whole of 30 minutes to complete the step and now I have to wait for another week for the next step. I have a feeling this is going to be a very long process.
We are talking about going to the Steam and Gas Fall Show tomorrow. We wanted to take the motor home and stay for the weekend but nobody returned out call for a reservation, so we will just go down for the one day!
I'm headed out to the Sewing Loft now to work on a couple of new projects. I have one quilt on the Long arm, and two tops to be sewn. I also want to put together a table runner using my Accuquilt cutter, but haven't decided on what fabric I want to use yet. I do have an Autumn colored table runner done and another one that needs to be put together and quilted, ah that may be the ticket for today.
After getting something to eat the dogs and I will be back out to the Loft.

Doctor's Visit

2011-09-27T14:17:00.000-04:00

Well now, went to the doctor's today for my 6 month check up. I don't know what is wrong with me, I just cannot seem to get this body under control. So today, I had a full work up of tests and now will wait for the results. Doc seems to think perhaps I need a anti-depress and that I should see a upper digestive specialist because DH had to squeal on my gagging when I eat thingy. The peeing the bed and pants isn't fun either, so maybe need to see a urologist too. OMG when is this stuff going to end. Heaven forbid should I get any worse then I already am!
Now, I'm heading out to the sewing room to find some Autumn colored fabric to make a table runner with my new Accuquilt Go. I got the new die "Rose of Sharon" from Amazon and it arrived yesterday, so I'm getting real antsy to get at it.

Mystery Quilt V

2011-09-24T19:31:00.000-04:00

Some really ugly purple fabric, but it should make for an interesting Mystery Quilt. I've decided to use the wrong side of it as the background. The name is "Worms and Jelly Rolls #1. So here is the fabric:

I know I did say ugly --- but we are going to see if putting it together as a quilt will improve the fabric choices

Yummy Plum Cobbler

2011-09-19T07:43:00.000-04:00

Maxine's Plum Cobbler
8 ripe Black Plums washed & remove seeds(sliced or chopped)
1 c sugar
2 tbsp honey

Dough

1/2 stick of butter - 4 tbsp
1 c flour
pinch of salt
2 tbsp sugar
2/3 c milk
pinch of cinnamon (opt)
Whipped cream or ice cream for topping

In a medium saucepan combine plums, 1 c sugar and honey, bring to a boil and simmer at a very low temperature until a slightly thicken sauce about 20 to 30 minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and butter. Mix with fork or your hands until crumbs. Add milk and mix just to moisten.
Drop by teaspoon onto hot plum mixture like dumplings. Cover tightly and cook approximately 10 minutes before lifting the cover.
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

Crock of xxxx

2011-09-19T07:24:00.002-04:00

What you believe in comes true! That is a crock! I've been alive for many years and very little of what I believe if any has ever come true... Who the H--- are these a-holes that are spreading this kind of S---. It needs to stop! How the frickin H--- can you stop it? If anyone has any ideas I'd sure like to know, too.
I believed that if I worked hard, I'd be successful and make huge amounts of money. True or False
I believed that if you treated others fair and lovingly you would be treated the same. True or False
I believed that I would marry the person I loved and we would be together for at least 50 or 60 years. True or False
I believed that I would always be healthy and able to take care of myself. True or False
I believed that I would die before those I loved so I would not have to suffer. True or False
I believed that no harm would come to my children and grandchildren. True or False
I believed that my family and I would all live happily ever after. True or False
What you believe in comes true!

My Share and other tidbits

2011-09-15T12:01:00.000-04:00

Today, I baked a batch of Oatmeal cookies, made breakfast of orange juice, and egg sandwiches. I still have several things on my list including doing a manicure and perhaps get a quilt top cut out or at least started.
Sunday, we had a rather interesting day at the car show. First, there was only one car there really showing support for the 9/11 which they said was the reason. Second, we were almost kicked out because they thought our Pontiac G6 isn't a classic car! Oops, first thing if you are having a "Classic" car show, you should know what a "Classic" car is and what is considered a "Classic" car. GMC no longer makes Pontiac and 2010 was the last year that the G6 was made, therefore it is no longer in production as is considered a "Classic" car. DH made sure that the character who tried to make us move knew this or knows it now!
Then we went to dinner, oops another mistake, I should always go where I think it is good food and good service. I don't mind paying for good food and good service, but I really want to slug these place that have ah OK food and lousy service.
It kind of started out this way, DH one of his friends and I sit down, it takes about 5 minutes for a waitress to come and take our drink order and to tell us that "our" waiter is busy and will be with us shortly. About 10 minute later our "Waiter" arrives and he immediately acknowledges the men with "football" talk and totally ignores me. Well, guess what I must have been invisible because the same thing happen with my dinner. It was a real mess, not butter for the baked potato, and my sandwich was totally messed up and nothing that I had asked for! I would not have left a tip if I were paying, but DH did. Oh his food was already, until midnight when he was up rolfing in the bathroom.
We will not go back there again.
One good point to our 100 mile trip, we stopped at our friend Jerry's and he was there. It has been almost 3 years since we have heard from him. He disappeared in 2008 and now after knee surgery, and several bouts in the hospital we found him. He doesn't answer is phone and we were down there twice and beat on his door and he wasn't anywhere around. I worried about him because of his age,but now know he is OK!
OK, lunch time so I'll be back.

Old Fashion Oatmeal Cookies

2011-09-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

1/2 c shortening
1-1/4 c sugar
2 eggs
1/3 c light molasses(opt dark)
1-3/4 c all purpose flour
1 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
2 c uncooked oatmeal
1/2 c chopped nuts (I prefer walnuts)
1 c raisins (try muscat {white})
Oven 400° (mod hot). Mix shortening, sugar, eggs and molasses. Measure flour and dry ingredients in separate bowl, add to shortening mixture. Stir in oatmeal, nuts and raisins. Drop on to lightly greased cookie sheets, bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until lightly brown. Note: if you use dark molasses, they will be a lot browner so you need to watch carefully so they do not burn.
Makes about 4 dozen cookies.
Adapted from "Betty Crocker's Best Cookies" (The best cooky of 1900-1910) Oatmeal Drop Cookies.
Enjoy!
Oh so yummy! mmmmmm good!

2011-09-11T08:44:00.000-04:00

Sunday, today we are heading out for a car show. No we are not taking one of DH collector car, because the show is about 45 miles from home and I do not think he is comfortable driving that distance in one of the classics. Not even our new baby is going to get this run, so we will take "my" baby our Pontiac G6, which is a classic anyway except she is only 3 years old, however; she only has 12000 miles. Boy have those increased since I told DH to start driving it because the Ford Explorer was a gas gussler.
Here is our new baby, Ms Rita is a 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Classic in Seafoam Green with 48000 miles and dream to ride and drive:

So here she is, pretty, huh? Now, she has spinners on the wheels and they are so pretty in the sun.

Well, DH is giving the dogs a bath, it is always so noisy, because we are taking them with us to the car show this afternoon. I made some cookies to take along as a snack, but at this rate, I may have them eaten before we even get out the door.

Now, it is time to get some breakfast. Just some juice, eggs and coffee, maybe a piece of toast would be nice.

It is September

2011-09-07T00:47:00.000-04:00

September already and Labor Day is gone. Oh my! My Tootie Frutti quilt was enter into a show... my b and sil must really like it. I'm very happy about that.
The cooler weather yesterday and today is certainly a change from Saturday where it was 90 deg. in the shade at the German Festival.
And what do you think about Jimmy Hoffa, Jr. calling citizens who love America SOB's. Wonder how many real labor union members appreciated that comment. I certainly glad that I don't belong to a union now days. I remember the days when the rank and file members of a union actually loved their country and all the freedom that we afforded them. So what the "h__l has happened. When did we start calling American citizens SOB's because they didn't think the same as you!
I'm wondering about the Democratic party or as Mrs. Clinton said, "rather be called a "Progressive"! Or maybe a "Socialist"! and if we remember our history we know what a "Socialist" is don't we?
God Bless America! and God Bless her citizens!
Good Night and let not your heart be troubled, tomorrow is another day, if the "Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise".

Fibromyalgia

2011-08-21T11:17:00.000-04:00

Perhaps I should see a doctor! Do you think?
Why I've had all these symptoms all my life and so therefore will live with them just like I do everything else. End of story! Good night Irene!

Fibromyalgia

new Latin, fibro-, fibrous tissues,

Greek, myo-, muscle,

Greek, algos-, pain,

also referred to as FM or FMS

Key Symptoms:

Pain all over, fatigue, brain fog, trouble sleeping, exercise difficulties, irritable bowel, headaches, jaw pain, multiple sensitivities

Other Symptoms can include:sensitivity to odours, loud noises, bright lights, some foods, and prescription medications, non-cardiac chest pain, acid reflux, irregular heart beat, palpitations, shortness of breath, numbness, dizziness, feeling faint, nasal congestion, painful periods, irritable bladder, interstitial cystitis, profuse sweating, muscle weakness, tingling sensations, chemical sensitivities, vulvodynia, difficulty focusing eyes, PMS, the feeling of swollen extremities, dry or burning eyes and mouth, and balance issues can occur

Aggravating Factors

Changes in weather, cold or drafty environments, hormonal fluctuations, stress, depression, anxiety, over-exertion

Quote of the Date - oh really

2011-07-31T19:57:00.000-04:00

What is a woman? I assure you, I do not know...I do not believe that anybody can know until she has expressed herself in all the arts and professions open to human skill.

Virginia Woolf (1882-1941)

Sunday

2011-07-31T17:58:00.000-04:00

Well this crazy month is over... I hate July.
Sunday night supper, leftovers... I never have leftover on Sunday... Who gives a damn anyway?

Hurt - STOP!

2011-07-26T09:37:00.001-04:00

Hurt - STOP!!!
And I cannot stop the tears. I've lost love and people before... but I'm so conscious of this and it really has no stopping at this time.
Poor darling Heather, the pain she is baring. Do not even try to imagine such!! Prayers and healing thoughts please.
OK, so on with life... why does it take more than 5 fabrics to make a quilt. We are talking sometimes as many as twenty... Crazy, what is this world coming to, NUTS!
Well, I'm off to the kitchen to made Lemon-Lime-Poppy Seed bread for tonight. Friends, Barb and Kay are coming this afternoon. Barb is the beautician and she is cutting our hair.
(Oh I just want to cry again, thinking of all the work and effort Kori put in to become a hair stylist and now she is gone! )
Hurt - STOP!

The pain doesn't stop

2011-07-20T05:33:00.000-04:00

OMG, the pain doesn't stop! Sleepless night! Restless days! Just do not know how to endure! Here it is 5 o'clock in the morning and I've already made a double batch of cookies and hoping to get enough energy to clean the dining room. I'd run if I could breath! I'd run around the world just to get rid of this horrible nightmare I'm in. Oh well this has got to be my Hell, there just isn't any other explanation for it.
And now all of sudden, I'm feeling like for some reason, I'm not suppose to claim my granddaughter. What? What the hell is that? And no I didn't not change my name on facebook and whoever said that can go to HELL because they do not know what they are talking about and are talking through the hole at the end of their body!
Yes, I mad, I am mad as hell! I'm also crazy!!!!
So, to start the day off right, here is a quick, easy and delicious recipe for you!

Peanut Butter Cookies

1 Cup of Sugar

1 Egg - slightly beaten

1 Cup of Peanut Butter (chunky if you prefer)

Mix all 3 ingredients together. Drop by teaspoonsful on ungreased cookie sheets and bake 12-15 minutes in a moderate oven 325° F

Quick, and easy and oh so yummy, I just had 2 of them warm from the oven

Kori would have love them.

Gone but never forgotten

2011-07-14T12:13:00.000-04:00

Well, we no longer have Kori in the physical, but she will never be forgotten in our hearts and minds.
R.I.P. sweet angel!

Love,

Gram, Mr. Dave, Kerri Pearl and The Rocket

Why is always Yours or Mine Decision

2011-07-12T06:02:00.000-04:00

Why is always yours or my decision. As I sit here awake, try to figure out why my 20 year old Granddaughter is lying in a casket and why I feel so hurt and alone and WHY this had to happen, I fully realize it was MINE and only MINE. I started this whole F ing drama. I started the whole thing by MY decision to marry my sons' father. It was MY decision to move to this Hell hole of a town where MY children would grow up and marry and have or not choose to have children.
Their father went along with me because he loved me and thought I knew something. When in fact, I knew and know nothing.
In 1965, he had a wife with a child on the way and wanted to take care of them rather than go to Korea. He wanted to take care of them and didn't think that would happen if he left them alone. So, his wife made the decision. This was a beautiful town and there were lots of jobs, even if it was a hell hole, dark and dreary and full of tragedies every where. Tragedies that were hidden from everyday sight.
If I had not chosen to move here, my son would not have met nor married my granddaughter's mother and my granddaughter would never been born here and would not have died here 20 years later. Nobody to blame but myself for as usual my STUPID decisions. End of story Kori! Oh my God how I love you!

My Beautiful Granddaughter

2011-07-08T14:04:00.002-04:00

When I'm sad, you need to know,
That there is a reason I do not glow,
Passing by to and fro,
Just popping in and off I go!
My beloved, taken away too soon, Kori B

Where did you go my beautiful One? I love you so! God speed and fly with the Angels, Light of my Life, Kori.
B: 01/27/1991 D: 07/07/2011

2011-07-05T13:42:00.000-04:00

The New StampinUp! Year began

on July 1, 2011.

With the release of the new 2011/2012 Idea Book and Catalog comes a new hostess plan. Same great perks for hosting, but now you get to choose whether you want hostess sets, spend all your hostess rewards throughout the catalog or a little of both. You can still get exclusive hostess sets and at an awesome greatly reduced price with your hostess rewards or just choose to use your hostess rewards on just catalog merchandise or like I've already said, you can spread them out over both. So this means that hostess dollars have increased. And to top it all off when your party reaches $400 in sales you get to choose 1 item at half price, $500 party 2 items, $750 party 3 items, $1000+ 4 items.

That new catalog is available at my website at:http://maxine_creates.stampinup.net Where you can shop online 24/7 and receive reduced shipping costs and a special price for ordering from a demonstrator.

So what are you waiting for? Jump into stamping and have some fun!

Moved It

2011-06-30T20:33:00.000-04:00

Wahoo, finally moved my sewing machine and cabinet out to the sewing room, so now I not only have room in the dining room but I do not need to put the machine away every night and open it up before I want to stitch something. It is amazing how tiring it is to do that each and every time when it would be so nice just to sit down and sew. Next is the Serger and embroidery machine are going out there. Then so is this baby when I get another one for indoors.
Until later, let not your heart be troubled and keep on pedalling.

2011-06-27T15:30:00.000-04:00

Monday and Daughter-in-law is here from Florida. We are going to dinner this evening; however, my other son and Dil and grandson will not be joining us. It seems like the t-ball now is Monday, when his great Uncle and Aunt was here it was Tues & Thurs, Can I divorce my son and his family? I sure feel like it sometimes.
Anyway, it should be a nice dinner. I think though that I will get a nap before and try to get my OBS straighten out before that time. I really like the food where we are going and I really want to enjoy it.
No quilting on Sunday or today, although I may try to get some in after bit. I promised myself that I would do 4 Starry Log Cabin blocks every day, but so far I've fall short as usual.
Nothing other than that to share today.
Let not your heart be trouble.
The good Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I'll be back tomorrow.
http://maxine_creates.stampinup.net

70 Pinwheels ready for Lizzie!

2011-06-21T10:16:00.000-04:00

Here is the lastest and greatest! Finished this top on Saturday, so it is ready for Lizzie as soon as I finish all the rest of the tops I have. Working on "Starry Log Cabin" finally. Also got another block done for "Baltimore Country Cousins" so that is #4

Paper Roses

2011-06-17T17:24:00.000-04:00

Boy, where has June gone? Here it is half over already. Big brother and D S-I-L visited and left already. I am truly amaze at how fast the time goes by.
I am going into another stage of paper crafts. Above is a link to these very cute paper roses. I'm heading out to build some now.

Hope you enjoy creating these.

Full directions at http://clubcreatingkeepsakes.com/blogs/for_members_only/archive/2011/06/13/how-to-create-beautiful-paper-roses.aspx

I also am working on a new quilt top using a "Charm Pack". I've been very slow to accept these precut packages, but decided I need to look into to them. So I enrolled in Jenny Doan's online quilting school. The very first full lesson I watched I learn a technique that blew my mind.

Yes, after almost 35 years of quilting, my mind can still be blown away! These young ladies are filled with wonderful and amazing techniques. The class is from craftsy.com, and Missouri Quilt Co. so check it out also.

xoxoxo

Easy Quilt Candy Flowers Table Runner Finished

2011-06-02T12:31:00.000-04:00

Well, I made it! The new table runner is finished before big Brother & d S-I-L got here. I'm telling you this gave me a rash of *&#% by the time I finished the buttons this morning. I just don't understand! I have so much "stuff" in my stash except the "stuff" I need or want for any give project. Then I have to go to the store to buy more.
I started this on Tuesday and figured one afternoon and one evening TOPS! Sure, if you are superwoman! Which I am not these days!
First, I don't have the right color fabric, oh well, I can do that; then not enough of any one fabric; I can do that! Then, oh yes, sure I have buttons. I have all kinds of buttons. Where are they? Who the heck knows! Oh lets go to the fabric store, grocery store and maybe even breakfast, first.
That sounds like a fantastic idea.
Meet old friends at the restaurant, extra time spent.
Fabric store, oh they are having a sale on batting, spend another $100.00.
Grocery store, stocking up can goods, paper products at Sam's Club. Well, there went any extra money we thought we had.
Now, we are hot and tired. Guess what? The cashier at Joann's forgets to put the "buttons" in the bag and we get all the way home and no buttons, the reason for the whole trip in the first place.
I thought I banished "Murphy's Law" years ago!
Wrong on another one!
DH drives all the way back across town only to be told that "I" his wife should have checked to make sure "she" had everything. Sh__! isn't that HER job! Doesn't she get paid to check us out? Cash and bag? Heck yes, but then there are no competent workers looking for jobs. Perhaps it is the low paying wage that makes these people so incompetent.
Anyway, this whole project was a nightmare and it fought me all the way, but here it is.

But it is finished now and I'm happy with it. Looks very nice. Now, if Brother and Sister-in-law would get here today soon, I'd be really ready for dinner at "The Red Lobster"

Quick Project

2011-05-30T19:50:00.000-04:00

Started a quick table runner project this afternoon and I'm about half way finished with the appliqué. This is looking pretty good considering I doing it by machine. I usually always do appliqué by hand.Pictures will not be posted until tomorrow. It is time to give it a rest. Big Brother and D S-I-L will be here on Thursday and I still have tons of things to do before they arrive.

Finally Done!

2011-05-28T18:18:00.000-04:00

Ok, Tootie-Fruiti is done! Put the last stitch in her this afternoon with the label. Dear Brother & Sister-In-Law will be here next weekend, so I'm hoping they will be pleased with their 50th Anniversary gift.
Now, without further ado, HERE'S TOOTIE:

Another Dear Jane Block Finished

2011-05-21T13:26:00.000-04:00

Finished another Dear Jane block for QCA group. I really like the colors in this one. Now, I'm off to the sewing room to press a bolt of muslin and to measure the Tootie Fruity quilt. I really want it done to give to my brother and sister-in-law when they get here next month.
They will be married 50 years on June 2, 2012, so I really want to give it to them for an anniversary present.
Oh BTW: here is the Dear Jane Block:

Digital Scrapbooking

2011-05-21T13:19:00.000-04:00

Today was the first day since April, 2010 that I did any digital scrapping. I've been so busy with my quilting that I just didn't have time and besides, I lost tons of digital pictures during an external hard drive crash... Yes, they do crash! And then I lost the flash drive that I used as a backup! Then I was sick, but now am getting better, so I'm going to be doing more.
I own StampinUp's "My Digital Studio" and have lots of downloads. Oh by the way, YOU can purchase "My Digital Studio" at my StampinUp website here: http://maxine.creates.stampinup.net/
Anyway, here is what I did today.
This is Emma. Emma is my granddaughter's and her Mom's newest pet. Emma is now a certified "Therapy Dog" Way to go Emma!

Quilter's Pledge

2011-05-20T11:43:00.000-04:00

Quilter’s Pledge

I will never feel guilty about the size of my stash

I will treat my machine and rotary cutter with respect

I will not fear color, stripes, plaids or dots

I will encourage and share knowledge with fellow quilters

I will feel free to sew in my underwear and barefoot

I will feel free to collect sewing machines without guilt

I will visit quilt shops, even during family vacations

I will use my iron for fabric rather than clothing

I will hide my scissors from spouse and children

I will not feel guilt over fondling my fabric
"Copyright 2009 by Tiger Lily Quilt Co / Donna M. Papaleo "
http://www.tigerlilyquiltco.com/quilterspledge.cfm

I started a new quilt on Sunday. It is comprised of 1200 + pieces. So here is day 2, day 3 and day 5 of my "Starry Log Cabin" quilt. And another Dear Jane block done.
Actually, the quilting has been going pretty slowly this week. Seems like I'm getting interrupted more often then usual. DH isn't home today, got to a car swap with one of his buddies, so I figured I would get lots done, but here I sit at the computer.
Ordered a quick zipper system for my Tin Lizzie, but it hasn't shipped yet so don't know when I will get it, probably next week sometime. Does it always seem that when you want something really in a hurry that it takes the longest for it to get here. Anyway, it should work really neat for me instead of having to do all that pinning when one pinning will do! I so want to get at that machine, but at this rate, I'm not going to have MQ4 (Tutti Fruiti) done by the time big brother gets here next month.

Day 2 - 3 - Chain piecing:

Day 5 - 4 block complete, 76 to go!

Pillow Shams for F & P Civil War Sampler

2011-05-14T10:54:00.001-04:00

Ok, another Saturday night! Isn't there a song like that? Anyway, it isn't night yet, but I'm up and at 'em! Finish the last pillow sham for the Fons & Porter's Civil War Sampler by Toby Lischko. DH loves them and has already confiscated one of them. Also ordered a Zipper Leader system this morning, not as expensive as I thought they would be. In the meantime, I'm ready to fire up Lizzie and get the Civil War Sampler quilted and be ready to do my MQ4 on the frame when the new leader systems arrives.
We are still struggling with cold and allergies don't seem to help them any. We were on antibotics and cough syrup last week but have had little change except that the fever and flu symptons seem to have gone away. I started back on the allergy medicine in hopes it will help some.
Best wishes and prayers go out to my good, loving friend Bonnie who had a quadtruple bypass surgery last Monday. OMG, what a shock!
Ok, now here is the Sham!

They are very large and the directions stated to put the opening lengthwise, but now I wish I had did it the shorter side because they are gapping all over the place. We will need some new pillows now! Extra Large!
wahoo!
Happy Saturday!

2011-05-07T18:51:00.000-04:00

OMG, Saturday almost gone already. I have a bad cold and flu but I am still quilting today. I finished another block from QCA, the applique group. Baltimore's Country Cousins - This block is Garden Medallion:

Civil War Sampler Quilt

2011-05-06T18:55:00.000-04:00

I got the top together this morning and got the borders on it. I was really disappointed that I could get the blocks sized properly, but then I am usually in a hurry anyway, so it will keep someone warm even if the points are not all there! I had fun making this top and now I'm ready to get into the sewing room and work on Tin Lizzie 18 and get these tops quilted. There are now 4 to do before the 4th of July. That is my goal and I'm sticking to it for sure!
Take a look at Fons and Porter's Civil War Sampler designed by Toby Lischko.

A Couple of Spots to check out!

2011-05-05T12:40:00.000-04:00

Working on Fons and Porter's Civil War Sampler Quilt this morning hoping to get the top together, but this darn flu and cold has me by both feet pulling me down. About to get some lunch then see if I can get a couple more blocks together.
Here are a couple website to check out in the meantime: http://buttonholequiltdesign.com/ and of course my Stampin'Up site:
http://maxine_creates.stampinup.net/
The buttonhole has some neat things and of course the end of this month is the end of the old catalog and new things coming June 30th.
Fun! I'm waiting for my manager, Barb, to come over this afternoon and play, but she may not make it and I really do not feel like it with this cold.

Quote worth remembering

2011-05-03T18:07:00.002-04:00

It seems to me that I have always existed and that I possess memories that date back to the Pharaohs.

Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880)

May Day; May Day

2011-05-03T17:42:00.000-04:00

Not feeling very well today, in fact didn't feel good yesterday either, but this quilt border was giving me fits. So, I was up early this morning and sunk into it and got it done.. Even got the binding made, so I'll have it done by the end of the month for Memorial Day!!! With the capture and killing of Usama Bin Laden this is a fitting tribute to those who were killed on September 11, 2001 in New York, DC and Pennsylvania. May they now rest in peace.
So here is "Let Freedom Ring" pattern from Quilting Treasure and Kensington Studio:

Looking for a Red, White and Black Pattern

2011-04-27T19:13:00.001-04:00

I know I saw one somewhere. But I just cannot get my hands on it. I just got this wonderful fabric and am dying to work with it.

We just got back from the clinic and blood work that is done thank God! The temperature was wonderful and I didn't even need to wear a jacket. Now, I'm not as brave as the younger women with their flip-flops and shorts; I'll just stick with my jeans and light sweater for a while yet. Memorial Day is plenty soon enough for me to get into the Capri's and petal pushers I think! We went to Panera's for supper of soup and a sandwich and oh I love their coffee.
So I'm happy now! Home and ready to start on another quilt top. I didn't get anything much accomplished today. I want to get into the sewing room and work with Tin Lizzie, but knew that I had that late afternoon appointment, I couldn't spend too much time in there, so I just let it slide. Maybe tomorrow!

Yesterday, I made a couple more Dear Jane patches here:

Rotary Cutting

2011-04-25T21:33:00.000-04:00

About 2 weeks ago I found out about the carpet cutters and wheels from Harbor Freight and was thrilled. Then DH and I stopped by to see what the story was. Sure enough they had heard that some quilters were using the cutting wheels in their rotary cutters, but they were out of the cutting wheels so DH and I purchased 2 of the cutters with contained 3 wheels at $3.99 each. The is really a bargain when the fabric shop are getting any where from $7 per blade and up to $30 for a 5 pkg. Is there a 'gas' pricing going on here. Anyway, I probably have enough blades to last me for a lifetime and I'm pleased as punch with this buy. Now, the big news! I just came from McCall's Quilting sight and found that "Harbor Freight" is advertising the cutter there Wahoo! You go girls!!! Get the bargains so we can buy more fabric!
Did any of that make sense? Must be the chicken I had for dinner. Speaking of dinner, I think it is time for dessert so goodbye for now!
Happy cutting!

2011-04-25T15:17:00.001-04:00

Easter is over, so now what? We go on to the next holiday or just the next day.
I came across a neat blog today, I wasn't much interested in the blog or blogger in and of itself but it had this cool YouTube video that I want to keep here for a while. I hope you enjoy this talented young man as much as I do.

This morning it is rainy again and the backyard is flooded. The tree service came and took the tree down and hauled it away. The fence fixers should be here sometime this week too. It is too wet for the dogs to run outside anyway, so the fence lying on the ground doesn't bother me too much.I worked on my Dear Jane quilt

this morning and got another patch done. This afternoon I'm working on the border for the MQ4. Might even get it on before dinner time if I get moving. Until later.

Mystery Quilt #4

2011-04-23T10:55:00.000-04:00

Well, it is together. I put the top together this morning. What a bear! I cannot believe I'm having so much trouble with those triangles. But she is together and hopefully all quilted before the middle of June, because "big" brother and d s-i-l are coming for a visit and this is their quilt.
Now it is time to put things away and start my Easter baking. I was going to do it yesterday,but MQ#4 kept me from it, so pizzelle irons here I come. Don't know if I'll get my kuchen baked or not as DH went to a gun show and didn't put the bread maker within reason of me.
I usually make apple strudel and a pineapple - cottage cheese, but who knows if the energy will hold out long enough to do that before the girls get here to play cards.
Ah, yes we play cards every other Saturday night and tonight is the one. I think it is my turn to "win". But at least d s-i-l, Sandy is bring the treat!
OK, time to get the sewing put away and start the fire under those irons.
Happy Easter!
Oh here is MQ#4

Good Friday

2011-04-22T08:26:00.001-04:00

It is Friday, and I have downloaded the last of the Mystery Quilt instructions. Ok so it is a two block quilt, most of them are. But there will probably not be much sewing for me today. It is "home blessing" day and man oh man does this home need a blessing.

The big wind storm we had the other night took down two (2) big pine trees in the backyard and now DH is waiting for estimates from the tree remover to get them off the fence so that the dogs can get out there and play. I do not see the urgency, because it is too wet out there anyway. That is probably the reasons these huge 30 ft pines toppled over. That is the last of them in the back. About 14 years ago two others went and the church thought they were theirs, so they removed them. Now, these are ours so we have to. Am I thankful for the church... yes, you bet I am! Very thankful as there was no way I could have ever gotten them down and cut up.

Ok, it is time to get some breakfast and start on the floors and bathroom. The good Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I get back to my sewing soon!
Oh oh, it is snowing again!!!!!

Early Morning ZZZZZZZZZZZ

2011-04-21T08:17:00.000-04:00

Woke up at 3 A.M. and could not go back to sleep so I got up and made these "Egg Mats". The fabric is a fat quarter bundle "Cheep Talk" from Connecting Threads and I have been thinking of what to do with it or what quilt to use it in. Well, it is close to Easter and baby peeps, and eggs are pretty traditional, so that is what came to mind. I'm sure they could have been done better or more perfectly shaped, but they are mine and so be it.

and I know my 6 year old grandson will love them.

Now, it is time to get the dogs out and get dress because "He" will be here to spend the day and color Easter eggs shortly. Guess we will make pizzelles while he is here, too. So busy, busy! It is so nice to be retired!

Wonderful Day

2011-04-20T19:36:00.001-04:00

"Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day..." My d s-i-l took me out for the most wonderful treat this morning. We went out to a Day Spa and had a manicure and a pedicure. Then we stopped at the Casino for lunch and play a few games of chance. No I didn't win but only lost $4.99 and that is great for me.
Hope everyone else had a wonderful day also. Now I'm off to the sofa to spend some quality time with my dogs and watch a bit of the news. Until tomorrow, tc ... the good Lord willin' and the creek don't rise, I'll be back.

Giveaway!

2011-04-20T17:09:00.000-04:00

I'm off to entry another contest to win some fabric from http://robertkaufman.com/ and http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/2011/04/giveaway-off-rail-pattern-fabric.html and now I'm headed over to facebook to post a link there, too. Wish me good luck!

Early Start

2011-04-19T07:58:00.001-04:00

Looking forward to a very busy week. Yesterday, we made Easter Cards, and DGS came for the evening. This morning is a dentist appointment. Tomorrow my D S-I-L and I are going for a manicure, pedicure and then lunch at the Casino on our way home... Thursday my DGS is coming to color Easter eggs and spend the day while mom and dad work. Then we will have Good Friday. I have to do some baking as Easter would not be Easter without my mother's coffee cake and pizzelles. Now, I better get changed and get going as the dentist is way across town and DH insists on driving and he never goes a 1/2 mile over speed limit :o)

(continued) Almost done - Top is complete

2011-04-18T12:27:00.000-04:00

Here is "Gentleman Caller" Top:
Completed 12:00 P.M. April 18, 2011

The top measures 60" x 72" without borders or binding

Almost Done

2011-04-18T08:31:00.000-04:00

I'm almost done with "Gentleman Caller" top only 3 more rows and 6 to add to existing ones. I think I could become attached to this one. It is fairly easy to assemble and the reds, blues, & browns, look fabulous together. Maybe at the beginning of next week I will be able to get into the sewing room to start quilting some of these tops. DH brought in the bobbins from the Tin Lizzie so that I can wind them on the Elna which will be a whole lot faster than what the Lizzie has for a bobbin winder.
The weather isn't getting any warmer so I'm wondering what next Sunday will be like. The family is planning on going out for Easter dinner to the "Tom Ridge Environmental Center" for the buffet or whatever D S-I-Ls decide. That is my choice.
Have taken some pictures of a fabulous rainbow last Saturday morning but still do not have them loaded up to the computer. Perhaps today, you Think? The weather station is in need of repair. The strong winds over the weekend, were not kind to it.
I'm working on a coffee theme for next month, maybe a garden theme would be better. We should be starting to plant or at least get something started, but it has been so wet and cool that we just do not have any energy to look forward to the summer.
Oh yes, speaking of summer! My brother and sister-in-law will be coming probably in the middle to late June and I was given the task of calling 'My sister, Ilene' to see if she and my niece will also be coming around the same time. It would be fun, but I'm usually the hind foot when the older siblings get together. Kind of invisible if you know what I mean.
Ok, time to get to work. Get the dogs in, and finishing that top before this afternoon when our friend (The Vegetarian) comes to make us dinner and we are going to make some greeting cards. My StampinUp business is almost non-existent these days.

Up to my ears in the Quilting ????

2011-04-17T08:10:00.000-04:00

Well, ain't this a bucket of ____. I'm up to my ears in quilting. Planning, cutting, sewing, ripping i.e. "froggin" (rip-it [rib-bit])and trying to fix errors made by not only me but instructions not clearly written. One of my biggest pet peeves are people who use quilting programs to design quilts then have someone else do the block work and quilting and all they do is the writing of the instructions which make little or no sense to the person trying to do it all. That is not only purchasing the fabric, but actually measuring, cutting out the pieces, and sewing them together.
One of my recent endeavors comes with extensive research looking for the right fabric because what was originally suggested in the pattern was already outdated and no longer made. I spent hours online looking for the right fabric. Then when I found something to my liking because, the original was not available, the quantity was just barely enough, with no room for a cutting mistake.
The pattern was then divided into 3 parts, that is 3 different magazines. So I had to purchase all three. If you have bought a magazine lately they are not cheap. I'm talking $21.00 just for the patterns. On top of that I purchased two (2) reference books; found them cheap on Amazon.com... if I had been smart I could have just used those instead of buying all the stupidly written instructions.
Now, I stuck with a poorly made quilt with points that do not exist and it looks like a 10 year old made it. You would think that I would know better? You think? Oh well on to the next stupid mistake.
It is a Mystery Quilt. I tried one a while back and never finished it because it had a medallion center that I couldn't get right. That one was a block of the Month and I got sick so never finished it either. This Mystery is posted on the Internet and is scheduled for every Friday a few steps are revealed. This week 4 and I'm already tired of waiting for the next steps. We have done 14 but they are simple too slow. More time and money invested and already I can see the fudging that will have to take place on this one.
I've made it my goal to at least get all the tops together before I die, so that someone doesn't just come in and take whatever fabric they like but hopefully will realize that it belongs to something that will turn into something else if they have the patience to work at it. Dying, who has time to die? I don't! I have too many projects to finish and too much to enjoy yet! So God, will you wait until I at least get my projects done and can enjoy them for awhile?
Amen.

2011-04-14T12:05:00.001-04:00

This is a "MUST WATCH" on all political venues:

Working on my "Civil War Sampler" this morning... It looks like I'll be ready to put the top together this weekend should I still have enough energy.
I have the cold from H e double LL, cannot shake it and almost ready to call the doctor again...
We got the news that my D B and D S-I-L are coming probably by the middle of June for a stay. I have to call my DS and put a bug in her ear that she and my neice should come then also. Does it sound like he is using me :O)
Back to the sewing machine.

Civil War Sampler

2011-04-12T22:17:00.001-04:00

The May/June magazine arrived on Friday, however; I didn't recognize it because it had an advertisement on the cover covering the regular front. Anyway, tomorrow, I will be able to start the last stage of the Civil War Sampler. I figure I'll be ready to put the top together by the weekend if I don't fall into too many traps.
Here is Part 1 and Part 2.

( there is a duplicate in here but what the heck)

Tomorrow, the dogs go for their hair cuts and toenail trims. Perhaps Spring is really here. I certainly hope so because I am tired of the cold and wet weather.
We got some kale from the garden tonight. It weather the winter and came back to life. Our friend, Barb, fried it up with egg and cheese and called it a 'faheita' I have no idea what that is and I'm sure it isn't spelled correctly. It was delicious through. Looking forward to a good garden this year. Hopefully, we have the junk out of it and the soil working properly.
Let not your heart be troubled, good night and pleasant dreams

Ladies of the Seas

2011-04-05T11:09:00.001-04:00

Today I taking a break from quilting and going to work on some papercrafts, but in the meantime; here is the latest "Ladies of the Seas" block that I've almost completed. It still needs some embroidery on the ship's hull, but basically it is finished. My friend, Barb, is coming over this afternoon and we will have lunch and then do some stamping. It has been quite awhile since we have gotten together so this is a treat.
I've been so involved with quilting I almost forgot that I have a business to run. Connect with me here:Maxine Creates
The America - Ladies of the Seas

Now this is a daily quote worth keeping...

2011-04-05T09:58:00.002-04:00

The sorrow for the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal—every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open—this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude.

Washington Irving (1783-1859)

Use This Daily Prayer

2011-04-05T09:49:00.000-04:00

...Heavenly Mother/Father God: walk through my house, take away all my worries, and illnesses, please watch over and heal my family &; comfort my friends in Jesus name, Amen!

Add a little memo: Mother/Father, I know you always hear me; I know you always answer, Amen!

Quilter's Newsletter

2011-03-29T16:07:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More articles

Lookin' for a 4 leaf clover

2011-03-12T10:45:00.000-05:00

It is almost St. Patrick time. Lent and I have already quit smoking, so I'll have to find something else to give up this year, although the smoking never worked before. I need to find some need wallpaper i.e. background in green, perhaps tomorrow. Now, I'm off for a nap because I've been up since 5 am and today is MIL's bd so will be up late tonight. Ok off now to find that green and maybe even a beer.

Where did January Go?

2011-01-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

Oh my, where did it go? The new year came in and I went into the hospital. Oh those nasty cigarettes and my nasty habit finally got me. After 11 days with doctors and nurses prodding and poking me, I was so happy to get home even if it was the dead of Winter. So were the puppies, they were so happy!
Now, I gearing up for Valentine's Day. Maybe a happier time.
Kori's birthday is on Thursday. I cannot believe that she will be 20. No wonder I feel so old.... I am old!
I really haven't done much at all on my quilt. So I had really better get at it. But the week goes by so fast. The skilled nurse comes on Tuesday and Friday and so does the physical therapist. I'm working really hard to do the exercises every day and I'm even taking all my medicine like a good girl, yuk!!!! I just want to feel good!
Ok, I caught up here!

Oh Christmas Tree

2010-12-20T11:58:00.000-05:00

A Christmas Tree I made using my favorite graphic program PSP So sorry that the original company sold out to Corel who have totally ruined the program with their so called enhancements. Now it is bulky, ugly and not at all user-friendly.... Oh well that is progress for you.

Oh well, this is broke too... the tree is suppose to be twinkling... as an animated gif, however; doesn't look like it can here.

Merry Christmas All!

Black Friday Madness

2010-12-05T14:44:00.002-05:00

You must see this. Oh my, I'm embarrass to think my country has turned into this. I'm thankful, however; that I refuse to participate in this "black friday madness".
Amen
http://www.forbiddenknowledgetv.com/videos/socio-economics/black-friday-madness-of-a-lost-society.html

Wintery Sunday

2010-12-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

Yes, Sunday morning coffee -- So good! Started out early this morning, how about 4:50 am yes it is so true and now wish I could take a nap. yawn!
It is very windy out this morning and the snow is swirling on the parking lot across the street. Do you really suppose we are having "global warming". I personally think it is "global welfare".
Global whatever, not too sure that is what our founding fathers were referring to when they wrote our Constitution. Americans are the kindest people on earth and yet others accuse us of being colonizers and ugly.
The founding fathers wrote those great documents with a Supreme Being in mind and a following of the "Golden Rule". And just what is the "Golden Rule" many young and old ask these days. If any of them even would understand the concept of it. Just to refresh your memory it is thus:
"Do onto others, as you would have them do unto you."
It is not do unto others as you will, nor is it oh well it doesn't matter because "I" am doing my own thing or even "every man for himself". How about "Express Yourself" Which now brings me to one of my favorites, told to me by my 8th grade teacher: "Your right to stretch your arm, ends where my nose begin." ah ha now isn't that a provoking thought...
Well, I'm outta of here for today. Happy Sunday, stay warm and let not your heart be troubled.

Are We Living in Fear - or Should We!

2010-12-03T11:32:00.000-05:00

Should we?
"Only limited and carefully defined powers should be delegated to government, all others being retained in the people" - Principle 19 of our Founding Father - The Five Thousand Year Leap 28 Great Ideas That Changed the World by W. Cleon Skousen.
How much power have we relinquish to our government? Not only the Federal, but our State, County and local. Are you free to put up a storage shed or a fence on your property or for that matter of fact a new front porch without the government becoming involved? How about how your tax dollars are spent? Do you have a sidewalk to nowhere in your township or district? Take a look around. Question yourself as to where and why our government has such power and is that healthy for our republic?
Thoughts of our modern life should be arising in our minds daily. We should remember that we are the greatest nation to have ever emerge in modern time and our way of life is unique and protected. By protected, not by force but by common sense and participation in the process. It is understood that not everyone is a student of political science, or military might, but it is every one's duty to know about such things and to participate in it at the very least as being knowledgeable about what is going on and what is lawful and legal according to The Constitution of the United States.
Become involved, be aware and know what it is that our republic stands for ...
And so for today, I say so long and let not your heart be troubled.

Little Quilts

2010-11-28T11:15:00.002-05:00

I've made a few little quilts from a shop in Georgia. Every other month I get a kit. The first was little hearts, used as a doily in the china cabinet, the second was a 4th of July banner which hangs over the kitchen door, the 3rd is a flying geese runner and the 4th is a Autumn Harvest runner. I sometimes think I have too many project started, but I so do love the variety of keeping things fresh.

Little Quilts - Flying Geese mini quilt

Autumn Harvest

4th of July Banner

Little Hearts

My crocheted doily - in 2008 & 2009 my goal was to crochet a doily a month and this was the last one to meet my goal.

Now, I'm also working on a red work quilt. I have about 40 blocks finished. And "Prairie Women' s Sewing Circle" once a month project. I only have one started and today, I machine quilted it, instead of hand quilting. Yes, I know, it should have been hand quilted but I just wanted to get it done, as the stars will make a nice addition to the upcoming Christmas holiday. And heresssssssssss: Leap of Faith:

A Leap of Faith

Well, that is about all for today. I'm back to the sewing machine to add the binding. As soon as I get it done, I'll post the finished little quilt here. I'll probably use it as a table runner as I'm planning on using a blue and white theme this year.

We had a light snow yesterday. This morning the sun is shining and most of it is melting with the 39 degree temperature.

Until next time, let not your heart be troubled

and

Read the Constitution of the United States

"WE the PEOPLE"

Baltimore Album

2010-11-21T07:17:00.000-05:00

Worked some more on "The Ladies of the Seas" quilt this morning. Got the rigging done on "The Golden Hind" and started the globe until my finger started to sting.
This is my Baltimore Album Sampler that I started in April, 2007. This is the layout prior to applying the strips. Although they are all added, the border is done and it is being hand quilted, I do not have a picture of it, yet because it is in the sewing room and I haven't gotten up there in a while.
Today, we will be starting to get the house work done for Thanksgiving Day dinner and make some banana bread and take the turkey out of the freezer. We have a big one this year, because D. got it on sale for $.29 a pound with only a $10.00 purchases. I'm thinking I will probably freeze 1/2 of it after Thanksgiving and then we can have it between the holidays.
Heaven to Betsy, I cannot believe that 2010 is on the hind side of the calendar already... where did it go?

Update on "The Life in Funks' World"

2010-11-20T14:41:00.001-05:00

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Got up this morning and reflected on my day yesterday and the past week. Seems like I've been on a roller coaster again.

Started on Monday, being optimistic about getting the house resided with vinyl, but alas again, hit a big road block on Tuesday.

The sharks are still alive and well and looking for our flashing forehead signs, "Sucker and Stupid". DH says it is the name.

It isn't as if this is a huge house, approximately 850 square feet and most of it is windows and doors so the cost of the siding is minimal at best. The labor on the other hand is quiet intense and some think that we should pay some one's yearly income for one job to the tune of $30,000.00, yes you are seeing correctly, no typo here a huge 5 digit number. (I'm having an asthma attack just thinking about it.

One young man wanted $4700.00 and the another hasn't even called back, jobs must be really plentiful around here. Someone, however, did drop off some sample books. We just want plain medium cost white vinyl siding and to trim and cover the wood. The big guy wants to do the roof, windows, doors, gutters, downspouts,wrap the whole thing then but aluminum over everything else. Oh my sweet Lord!

Tuesday, I fussed all day and finally, got myself under control by bedtime. Praying to wake up to better things on Wednesday. We didn't sew that evening because we all planned to go to dinner at "Old Country Buffet" on Thursday. DMIL wanted to take us out for our anniversary which was back in June, but she had been able to find the time. But, yet again, although I chose the place the food did not agree with me and spent most of the remaining night in the bathroom.

Finally, Friday came. It turned out to be a most pleasant day and evening. We went and picked up our 1/4 cow and 1/2 pig for the freezer. The new owners of the meat company turned out to be wonderful folks. Most pleasant, friendly and happy. The meat turned out to be less than we had figured, so we then stopped at the new quilt store "Burning the Midnight Oil" to check it out. The young gal who runs it is a cheerful, pleasant talent lady and we enjoyed our time there... I must say that Friday was the best day of my week.

In the end, we have decided not to reside the house, but rather, wait until Spring and paint the aluminum as we have done in the past. The young man who quoted us the 4700, returned my call and said he would be happy to quote on it in the Spring.

If I could breath, I be out there with my paint brush long time ago scrapping and brushing away, but then that was 15 years ago. Lots of things change in that time. DH thinks we should have it power washed, so perhaps that is the way to go.

Today, I cleaning the oven and making banana bread as well as working on this blog which has gotten so very out of hand.

As always, wishing you a most pleasant weekend and 'let not your hearts be troubled'

Fall Happenings

2010-10-28T13:09:00.002-04:00

Just got back from our vacation in Florida. We traveled from our first stop at Brother Max's near Jacksonville, down to Ft.Myers to see my oldest son, Michael. So glad to be home.

Tomatoes

2010-09-07T15:11:00.002-04:00

After a wonderfully warm and dry Summer, the kids are back to school and my great friend, Kay, has come over to help dh clean out the refrigerators in the garage and get things started for the Fall. Tomorrow, we will be out and about to pick Roma Tomatoes to make spaghetti sauce for the uncoming Winter. So the harvest season is all around us.
I for one, do not like to eat tomatoes either raw or cooked, but I can tolerate sauces and soups as long as there are no hunks or seeds. What would a pepperoni pizza be without tomato sauce? Or a grilled cheese sandwich without a hot bowl of tomato soup?
Are you hungry yet, I am! Catch y'all later!

Hello to the World of Bloggers

2010-05-11T17:40:00.003-04:00

"Ain't it funny how times slips away." Just a little play on words. I've been so busy this Spring that I don't even know what day it is. My sewing/craft room is being completed, so I haven't had time to do much crafting or sewing. I did manage to complete a quilt top called "Quilter's Sudoku" and hope to start quilting it any day now, perhaps even tonight.
We are having the typical mid-May weather of rain, thunder, rain and more thunder. The dogs do not like it one bit and everyone here almost jump out of their skins when a big bummer crosses the sky. Talking about weather, the weather station is being worked on, the rain gauge is fixed but the wind is on the 'fritz' wouldn't you know it.
The upcoming holiday is Memorial Day on May 31st and we are planning a picnic if all goes well with the weather. Then we will be working on the deck addition, gardening, fishing and maybe a couple of day trips until the end of August when our oldest son and wife come home and then there will be another PICNIC! wahoo!

wow, Saint Patrick's Day gone!

2010-03-18T12:48:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that it is March 18th already. I can only hope that our Spring and Summer doesn't go as fast as the past couple of months. Today is my youngest son's birthday and I cannot believe that he is 42 already. Just want to"bump" here!

Valentines Day on its Way

2010-02-09T19:53:00.003-05:00

Oh my I cannot believe that I've not posted since Christmas. We've been busy with all the birthdays we have in the Winter. And, time really does fly when you are having fun.
My d-s-i-l and I have finally finished all of the 20 blocks for our Baltimore Album Quilt. Hopefully, I'll be able to get a couple of pictures posted before the end of this week. Not sure I should promise anything with DH's birthday dinner coming up on Friday night. I sure am looking forward to the wonderful steak at the club Yummy! Sorry PETA! :p
Ok, take care until next time.
Oh visit my Stampin'UP! website at http://maxine_creates.stampinup.net

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T07:18:00.003-05:00

Well Christmas is almost here. Doesn't matter rather or not you are ready it comes every year at the same time. You might as well be ready all year around.
We, well not I anyway didn't really do much shopping this year. I did most of it online and really cannot remember going into any stores except Sam's Club and the grocery store since Thanksgiving.
This year we most certainly will be warm. In November, we had to replace the blower motor on the furnace and this past week the whole thing went so we had to replace the whole furnace. It cost enough for Mr. D and I to have yearly trips for 5 years or buy each other VERY nice Christmas gifts for the next 10 years. Ouch!
The family is coming over tonight for dinner and to open their gifts. Tyler is excited but because his mom's grandmother is quite ill, it will probably be a bit quieter than usual.
That family seems to really enjoy having illnesses and deaths around Thanksgiving and Christmas. I think they have only missed on in the past 5 or 6 years. Perhaps they want to make sure that they are not forgotten. Ah such pitiful beings we are.
Guess we all live by the motto : Out of sight, Out of mind! I know there is a counter saying to that but right now it has passed from my mind or a Brain F; as they say.
Well, it is early morning here, but time for me to get busy. A lot of cooking to do today and I still need to wrap presents. So for now! Merry Christmas!

Found some pics

2009-12-15T08:04:00.002-05:00

Hey, I found my pics from our Florida trip last year. One thing I've saved with 3 computer crashes in 2008 and 09 were my pictures, thanks to Webshots and Kodak. Hope everyone is getting ready for the Big Day!
DH has the outside pretty much decorated, but I haven't done much of anything indoors yet. I figure next week is soon enough and can do it between baking cookies and cleaning :p.
Went to get my Reclast injection yesterday and so today, I spending it recouping through the side effects including numbing fingers and the IBS kicking up last night and this morning. No flu symptoms this time thank goodness.
Ok, off to let the dogs out and get some breakfast.
Let not your heart be troubled, things can get worse but probably wouldn't

Paying Tribute

2009-11-11T16:28:00.000-05:00

Link

Check out the Veteran's Day Parade. Thank you to all my fellow Veterans including my 3 brothers, my deceased husband, my two sons and my wonderful Mr. D. for keeping our Country FREE.

2009-11-10T12:15:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Halloween is over and November is Here...

2009-11-04T14:17:00.002-05:00

Ok here's the thing; Winter is fast approaching, well not the actual season according to the calendar, but weatherwise. Snow for this evening has been forecasted, although is not to stay, but who is ready for that white stuff with lots of color and lots of green grass after the short, wet summer we had. Not I!

DH has been working on my stamping room last week and this week and we are hoping to have it finished by this weekend. Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise that just may happen.

Oh, I'm not going on here. I just wanted to post a few lines to keep my blog going.

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

2009-10-26T08:17:00.000-04:00

Link

Busy Autumn

2009-10-26T08:01:00.000-04:00

Whee, this has been one heck of a ride through October. We finally got a couple of days of warm weather. Yesterday, Mr D and I sanded and poly - ed pine boards for shelves he will be installing on the sun porch to convert it into a stamp/craft room for me. He is tired of falling over my tons of stamps, paper and accessories in every room in the house.

Therefore, some nice shelves should do the trick. The light is much better in there also and I can see outdoors during the upcoming winter.

On Thursday, my youngest son and I are making a short trip down state to meet some of his 2nd cousins from Chicago. They are driving in and we are planning on having lunch with them. We will leave here early am for the 120 mile trip and it will also give us a couple of hours to catch up. Mr D, D-I-L and D-Grandson will not be going so it will be just the two of us. We had such a lovely though sad trip together in January of 08 to Florida hoping this will be under better conditions. We will take my car and Mr D, the DARLIN' is vacuuming and cleaning the windows for me.

Gotta run. If you get a chance visit my Stampin'UP!� website at http://maxine.creates.stampinup.net

Hope y'all have a great day and week if I don't get back here sooner.

My How Time Flies

2009-09-17T13:28:00.004-04:00

Where did the last month go? We finally got some nice weather, but I really haven't been doing anything very creative. Although there are lots of things on my mind.

Started a new School House Quilt aha Red and White. So very striking. Also made a table topper and crochet a doily that needs to be blocked and ironed before I can photograph it.

Our Stamping Club has met twice and the next meeting is September 24Th. I'm in the process of getting our projects edited and ready for posting this coming week.

The National Political scene has been interesting this summer. Even with all the financial turmoil, it is a welcome site to see that the American Silent Majority is finally stepping up to the plate and taking a few swings at not only our elective representatives in Washington but also the "Fringe Media" that has been so wonderful to the Democratic Party this year and called Independents and Republics every thing from 'redneck racists' to Nazis and AstroTurfs (?) whatever that is. Got me lost there.

On the economic scene our local General Electric plant are layoff over 1400 employees. We are very glad that DH retired when he was 60 and got out before the S(tuff) hit the fan here. Not that living on a fixed income is easy by any stretch of the imagination, it beats unemployment and welfare.

Health wise, we are doing very well considering our age. Both of us are feel good.

The dogs are so very happy and truly enjoy their great big playground since the 6 foot chain link fence has been installed. They would like it even better if we would let them out to run in the wet grass after all the rain we had this summer, but we have enough work to do without bathing them every day.

OK, I'm outta here for now.
Let not your heart be troubled. Take care, be safe and healthy until next time.

Icky Week

2009-08-26T07:42:00.002-04:00

What an ICKY week this has turned out to be... Changed over from cable to DirectTV and again they are seeing that stupid sign on our foreheads that reads "Suckers". Who would have thought to ask if we will get our local television channels. (Of course not, not without paying an extra fee for a box and hookup).
O M G is it any wonder why the "Government" has to get involved with all this stuff when there are suckers like me ... "hitting myself on my head" Why of course you, the consumer, must ask if you will get your local television channels. WHAT is wrong with me?? Then the cable company tells me when I cancel their service that I have a modem from back in 2006 when I changed my internet service over to DSL...
Are you kidding or what? I paid over $100.00 at Best Buy to get hooked up with a cable company that went "DEFUNK" back in 2001 and now, Time Warner is telling me that I have a modem that I leased it from Adelphia and must give it to them, or they will charge me $50.00.
Now, wait one darn minute. I did not ask for Time Warner, and when I switched over to DSL in 2006, they should have requested it. Another question, did Time Warner purchase Adelphia, or were they just assigned Adelphia's customers?
I will be happy to give them the stupid out-dated modem, but I will give it to them WHEN I find it and if they charge me $50.00 for it, if I don't find it within a certain timeframe, then they will get that money over my dead BODY!!! It is as plain and simple as that.
Then I get in here to my blog, and my feedit tells me that I am from "Union City" What? That is over 30 miles away from my current location almost in another county.... What is going on?
I am soooo confused! Gotta go now!
We are doing a day trip to pick up my new "Saddle stool". Dear S-I-L is going with us but we cannot leave until DH does HIS errands first which are always move important than anything anyone elses wants. Am I raging today? I certainly looks like it.
Weatherwise, we are finally getting some summer temperatures, although it rains almost every other day. I'm waiting for at least some of that so called "Global Warming".
Hey, y'all have a fabulous day! I'm going to try... And I'm going to try not to spend too much money at the Quilt shop! :p

Whewwwwww!

2009-08-14T06:12:00.002-04:00

it really has been some week. I finally got DH and granddaughter to help me paint the kitchen. DH is a collector and confirmed pack rat as am I, so things just kind of get moved from one place to another. So this month I decided that even though I cannot do much physically, I will start to delegate tasks to him and recruit my lovely granddaughter when ever I can to help me get this house in order before I crock and then they will have to do it all by themselves lol!
Tons of other things going on including excited about finally getting some summer weather.
We also are signing up for "The Angelfood Ministries" locally. Also have gotten DH stepmother and stepsisters to sign up. Not only is it a worthy cause, but when everyone is on fixed income I can see how hard it is to make ends meet. Mom Millie, really will like it as the box she ordered are meals that are all ready prepared and as she needs a walker to get around, having her lunch already prepared will be wonderful.
I like the fact that there really isn't too much food as we tend to buy too much and then so much goes to waste or spoils before we get to it. We sign up today and told DGD that she and her college roommate should also as it will be less expensive for them and the two of them could eat better for less and help out the ministry also.
Today is sign up day, and after I take DIL and GS to swimming, DH and I will go down and get signed up for this month.
Today is also 'Home Blessing' day. That is a general house cleaning, hopefully I can get that done before I go for the swimming class. And maybe I can make a couple of new cards today. I have been busy appliqueing a table top so I haven't did any new cards. It is fast approaching the end of August, duh and time to start thinking about the Fall and then Winter coming upon us..my the year flies by fast.
Someone once told me that I should keep a journal, and not ever publish it because it would be boring, ah ha... he hit the nail on the head with that one yeah!! Gerry!
Gotta go now... enjoy Willie and have a Great Weekend End!

As of late....

2009-08-01T19:39:00.002-04:00

have been so very busy that I've not even had a chance to sit here and think, let alone, write.
All this damp cool weather has really taken a hold on me and if I ever have been depressed this most certainly is the year. Little sunshine, and lots of rain. As I look out now, it has become quite overcast and although it is almost 7:45 there should still be a bit of sunshine around. OH NO!
Everyone has been in a dither about all the bad economic news, cash for clunkers, health care overhaul and etc. It isn't very nice for many folks around this area or for that matter of fact around the country. Too bad we entrust our livelihood to politicians who main concern is condemnation of their country and employers (U.S. Citizens) rather than thankfully making sure that they follow the laws of the land. Then of course there is many of them getting very, very rich on the "Fear" that our beautiful planet cannot take care of itself and we are destroying it with a made up story of "Global Warming". Even if some do not believe a a superior being, they most certainly should not be so arrogant to think that this beautiful planet could not take care of itself. They just need to look at the hurricanes, and earthquakes to see that it most certainly can.
Tonight's dinner hasn't even been started so I really have got to go and get something going. I bought some wonderful wraps, so I think I should go and wrap up some turkey slices with perhaps a bit of honey mustard sauce or maybe even some blue cheese dressing... yummy!

Screwy Bing . Com

2009-07-16T13:38:00.003-04:00

What the heck is going on? I use my address bar and every site I go to, I'm redirected to this STUPID BING com... talk about hijackers. And whom do you report this thing? I know I had an update yesterday that needed restarting and now I'll spend another day searching through Microsoft to find out what happened. It isn't bad enough that my external hard drive, wiped out all my graphics, digital scrapping and stamping stuff, now I need to deal with this crap.
Sometimes I wonder just why this machine is important to me anyway.
Weather wise, it is still cool and they are forecasting rain again. My garden is a total disaster. Nothing is doing anything except for the potatoes and there are a couple of wee tomatoes on the stunted growth vines. I'm just having a "bad hair" day to say the least.
We made it out to the Cherry Festival last night. Had a great hamburger, fresh curly fries, Coke and a fabulous piece of Cherry pie. Yummy. Mr D took a couple of pics so will try to get them uploaded shortly.
My brother and s-i-l were here for 10 days and we had a lot of fun. Seemed like all we did was eat. Made it out to the Casino for lunch one day. D S-I-L won a couple of hundred $ but the rest of us came home even or at a loss. But I beginning to accept this "Black" cloud over my head is for real. yuk, yuk yuk!
Ok, back to listen to Willie. Have a great day and let not your heart be troubled.

Flash Flooding - more on the way!

2009-06-30T12:07:00.002-04:00

We have gotten 4.62 inches of rain since 9:30 am and 2.66" in about a 6 minute period. DH took pictures of the flooding in the backyard. The city has requested all unnecessary traffic be stopped, and ordered evacuation along Mill Creek in Belle Valley. See photos here We definitely had our share of water today.

Although, "The Weather Channel" is totally in the dark about what is happening here, they are forecasting scattered thundershowers today and tomorrow.At this point, we are safe, but the garden is mostly washed out. Hopefully, the seedlings are strong enough to stay put.
On another note, I read in one of the area magazine, a story about the sunsets on Lake Erie, has been falsely reported to be one of the most beautiful in the world. The author of the article reported that "National Geographic" said they had no such information. The problem with the whole thing is that "National Geographic" never had the article in the first place but rather it was Rand McNally who reported that back in the 80's in their atlas. It is too bad that some authors don't bother to get all the details before writing articles.
Ok, I'm off my soapbox again.

Day Trip Planned

2009-06-27T07:24:00.005-04:00

Finally, a day trip planned. I've been waiting for this since before Easter and tomorrow we are actually going to do it.

My brother and s-i-l are camping about an hour away and we are driving over tomorrow (Sunday) for brunch, a day of playing (cards) and dinner. I'll have to call him today to make sure we can brings the dogs especially if it is going to be a whole day affair. They would not be happy staying home all day by themselves and I really do not want to impose on anyone to come over and dog sit with them.

DH needs to give them a bath today and I need to go to a Jewelery Raffle Luncheon this afternoon. I've had the tickets since the end of April and will be meeting up with dh step mom and sisters. We always have such a fun time.

Don't forget to check out http://maxine_creates.stampingup.net/ on Wednesday, July 1st to see all the new In Colors and the latest catalog. I'm so excited to share them with you!

Here are some of the latest cards I made last week:

Graduation is Over

2009-06-23T12:46:00.002-04:00

Summer is here and graduation is over. As the 4th of July approaches, we got word that my oldest brother and sister-in-law will be arriving on July 2nd to spend a couple of weeks here with us in their 5th Wheel travel trailer. I am so looking forward to see them under happy conditions for a change.

Everyone is busy here with weddings, graduations and yard work. Our garden is coming a long fairly good considering the cool damp weather we have been having. The corn is up and will be knee high by the 4th (depending upon whose knees) lol. Therefore, Rocket has been elected to put it to the test.

I made a couple of new cards and will try to post them tomorrow after I get them resized.

Just to let everyone know, I have a clean bill of health, well stable from 3 doctors this month. I am looking forward to being healthy for a long time to come. I worked hard since December to be a non-smoker without much success, so I enrolled in a "Freedom from Smoking" session put on by the American Lung Association and next Monday will be week 4 and our "QUIT" week. I think I am really ready to be a non-smoker and I think I can do it. Perhaps I should say "know" I can do it, if I practice what I preach! (Thoughts are things!)

Ok, I have blabbered on here for a bit. I just want to wish y'all a very pleasant day and "Let not your heart be trouble!" until the next time.

Spring gone - Summer long days are close ...

2009-06-18T12:01:00.002-04:00

Another week almost gone! Oh my, but Summer is almost here yippee. We got some super news last week. Big Brother and D Sister-in-law are on their way to spend some time here with us. They spend most of the year traveling around the country in their 5th wheel and every couple of years they come by to stop in on the beautiful southern shores of Lake Erie. We so enjoy their visits and look forward to playing cards with them.
We are getting some rain and you can almost hear the garden growing. The peas, beans, corn are up and we are looking forward to fresh radishes very soon.
I got pretty good clean bill of health this past couple of weeks when I had to visit my doctors and have a bundle of test done.
I have a whole bunch of pictures to load up from the graduation and party, but will not get them done until the weekend.
Now, I'm getting some lunch and wish y'all a very pleasant day.

Fine Ending to a Beautiful Day

2009-06-11T10:30:00.002-04:00

The Graduation was a success! Over 600 students received their diplomas including Kori and yes it was signed :o) We didn't stay for the whole thing. First, the 10 minute drive to the Civic Center took us over a half hour and we had to go up 2 flights of stairs, second, there was a baseball game scheduled and it was "Buck Night!" so the traffic was terrible. Fortunately, Kori has a last name that lets her be among the first half of the class. Congratulations, Kori!
Last night I talked to her mom and we were talking about what a lovely young lady Kori is. Her mom, Tracey, and I discussed child-proof homes and teaching children the word "NO!" We both believe that teaching children the meaning of the word "No" teaches them responsibility and protects them away from home. Too many young kids are heartbroken or definet because they do not know the true meaning of "no" once they come across the word out in the world. 'No' used with love and care does not cause low self esteem. In my opinion, "no" can create confidence and will sooner or later let the child know that the parents truly love them.
Ok, I'm off my soapbox now!
The new Stampin'Up!© In Colors, 09-10 Catalog and preview items are due to arrive today. The new IBC will be available July 1, 2009 for ordering. The Last Chance list is posted on the website and you can get there by going to http://maxine_creates.stampinup.net and clicking shop now. Also, remember that the old In Colors will be discontinued on June 30th so if you liked any of those colors now is the time to get them before they are gone forever.
Well for now, let not your heart be troubled, until next time. HAGD!

The Big Day

2009-06-09T06:18:00.003-04:00

Today, my Granddaughter graduates from high school. Remember how long those 12 years were when you were a kid? My, how the time changes for a Grandmother, seems like only yesterday when she and I went for her first ice cream cone.
She was about 3 and she said, "Grandma, you need a new car!" Now she has her own car and I'm tell her the same thing... :) Driving 20 miles through our winter weather requires a safe and effective vehicle. Guess that is my main worry. I am thankful she will only be driving it on weekends and when the weather is bad doesn't need to come home at all.
It is early here and I'm seriously thinking about going back to bed for a bit, but oh I really don't like to do that, because I can think of a thousand things I could be doing or that need to be done. I just need to motivate myself when I first get up.

2009-06-06T08:38:00.003-04:00

Long Day and longer

2009-06-02T17:13:00.002-04:00

Well, June is finally here! May seemed to be oh so long!
Kori is graduating next week and this week is her awards ceremony for her cosmopology class, next week is graduation and a graduation party at her mom's. All this and my Stampin'Up! business is taking off, because I signed up my first demonstrator this week.
DH and I took a road trip this morning and got home around 2:30. We stopped and had lunch at a little resturant. It was very good and they even had homemade pies... My favorite dessert. I took maybe 3 pictures all on his camera, so nothing much else except that it cleared up and turned out to be quite a beautiful cool day.

Until the next time, "Let not your heart be troubled".

Hey I Finally Remembered...

2009-05-28T00:08:00.002-04:00

I finally remembered to come in here tonight before getting to bed.
I've not did anything since Sunday with stamping except go to Ebay today and finding a couple of bargains and a couple of rip offs... oh well never mind. We are getting ready for a Pampered Chef party here on Friday and I still have much to do like get to the Paper store and get napkins and forks and spoons... Sure wish Kmart had what I wanted. I'm sure complaining tonight. So guess it is time for bed. Pleasant dreams everyone!
Until the next time, "Let not your hearts be troubled!"