They Came Afterall!!

It was so wonderful to see them too! I havent seen these babies since Christmas! This baby Jamie, on her first birthday on Uncle Jamie keepsake comfort quilt for Nonni! ( did ya get that?) She is an angel!

A day at the beach, wind be gone! Shawn loves to Build ::read : destroy::: castles... grunt. He is a force to be reckoned with I tell ya, and such a love:)

Does this face melt you or what? And gives kisses too! H we need pictures!!!!

Look closely dear friends... This is Grismn, about to be NAILED by Sir Rudy. Ya cant say he wasnt warned? Nose to nose they are! Owwwwwww

Heres the back story.... As it turned out, Ginger came into heat. Mister Grismn has been on the case, suffering from anxiety in a big way and decided to take it out on the poor parrot. :::MISTAKE::::

I dont think Ginger & Grismn made any Schnoodles... she was pretty bitchy( no pun intended)

In the middle of it all we still entertained Pickford guests and the kids helped me with many, MANY chores. Damned appreciated too.Also, Stephanie tried her hand at fashion design and made Jamie a dress, while I actually completed one quilt and loaded abother! SHOCK!! We did stay up very very late to do this. AND I WANNA DO IT AGAIN! It has occured to me that when I have a pacer, governor, studio buddy, I can accomplish plenty in there. Wierd because its really never been that way before. I shall ponder this. While I am preparing for the Fathers day craziness. I need a good man food menu... steak N eggs? I'm on it!

Diamond In A Pearl /M & M's

Theres something I CANNOT get out of my head! We had guests a month or so ago from the outerbanks of N Carolina. Very nice people. Well travelled too. Fascinating conversation for 3 days and 3 nights. I think on the second night I had to apologize to the woman for staring at her chest so much, but I couldnt help drool over her pendant. I shared with her my fondness for pearls and was so intrigued by her DIAMOND in her pearl! I wanted to throw myself at her feet and beg for it like a 6 year old. Instead i asked who the artist was while looking directly into my Walts eyes. I just receieved a very sweet thank you note from them with none other than the artists site. I am now super drooling.::help me:::
This is her pendant, on a lovely gold chain. Its called sea erchant. ::: sigh:::

I understand that this post HIGHJACKED Marvelous Mondays BUT... Some things were just made to be shared!

Still grateful on a Monday:)

For good doctors we hopefully can trust.

For dreams and desires... hope that thankfully didnt fade all the way

For Tylenol Sinus pills, JEEZ my face has been hurting!!

For textability, or I wouldnt hear from my daughter!!!

For my pocket camera... everyday I am thankful to have it. Look out, u may be the next blogabout:)

Pedicute Day

My Daughter and grand having

<-----a pedicure/manicure day.

I wish I was in THAT picture too. Feels good to see though. Aviana has her Mama's feet:) Hey Karen! Get her a toe ring too!

Next week my Idaho baby(s) are coming to the valley for Fathers Day. I wont be able to see them since I am feeding the other Fathers here on the coast at the Inn. I'm seriously bummed about THAT. I try not to think about it, but I do anyway. Jake only has a short time off of work and limited funds, so he will make a fast trip to see his Dad. Wait just a dawg gone minute.... He didnt do THAT for Mothers Day!! Hmmmmmm. I guess I will pick up the phone and turn on the ole Jewish Mother's guilt trip ( I am one by proxy, u are who you're with u know)

Choices... we all make 'em eh?

I called him last week.. I just needed to hear him. I couldnt tell him that when he asked if there was anything wrong. So I just asked how he was, how the kids, yada, yada.... I am certain these kids have enough on thier plates without the added mom issues. So, his tender voice will do. This whole texting thing leaves that pleasure out. I dont think I like it. Its handy dandy dont get me wrong, but I need voices, tickles, an occasional sneeze? Maybe I just need a pedicute?

Love Speak

I hear it all here and find it quite fascinating. Just being observant, not too nosey.
We have Mother daughter love speak. ( with adoration)" Oh honey you know you're so good at that everyone loves it".
Girlfriend love speak. ( who u kidding attitude) Hey, you know you're the Diva for that, stop being so modest".
boyfriend/girlfriend exclusive love speak, ( scoring points)I know you're the best for that, you can tell anyone I said so".
and even "dating" love speak. (sell everything with sex)"Ummm I didnt know you were so damed good at that baby, but i do now".
Alas, husband & wife lovespeak, (lovingly cattle prod)" I know you can do that well if you just apply yourself sweetie".
Its just amazing how you can pick up after awhile, who is who and how that works. Makes me wonder about my own predictability. Just pondering this morning after the breakfast crowd has been and gone. ::cause its what I do::
Truthfully I would so love to be more candid about ins and outs of the INN, however I am a bit squimish? shall we say? I mean... who knows whos reading right?:::the boss?:::SHIVER. I think i just froze on chatting.:::eyes darting side to side::: Er um... Buh Bye?

Big Girl Panties

Why is it that all roads of wisedom lead here? To this. It doesnt matter what it is either. My brain always says "here's what you do G".

Stinks. It stinks because sometimes I just dont WANT to. I'm tired of it. If God wont give me anymore than I can handle all I gotta say is" NOW?, How about NOW?" Oh I know I know... time. PPfft.

I suppose I'm just overwhelmed today right? Too much work, too much drama, and I nearly wrecked the car day dreaming about the color of my sons eyes today. On the heels of a ticket no less! So I took my blurry brown eyes to none other than the french bakery and orderd up a napoleon. Its in the fridge calling my name. I dont dare make a cuppa for fear I'll just EAT the Napoleon. grunt. Sometimes its just too hard, but whats the alternative? Yeah, I know that too. So... theres really nothing that I can do but whats depicted in the sign. I should have it tattoed on my butt.

Tomorrows another day right? It could really go either way. Happiness is a choice.

How about half a napoleon?

But ya love my guts right?

OK, on that note I will go bind a quilt. but doesnt it require a cuppa?

New Light Bar Coming Home!

Since this Mini Mansion isnt exactly ours to do a TAWANDA on, Walt & I decided that it would be best to BUY ME THIS!!!!

I am so excited not only to get this light fixture, but to actually have a trained Pro come in and tweek Greta Gammil while he is here! I have to wait a few weeks, but it's coming!!! YIPEE!
3 studios have come and gone, and my Walt makes them better each time. This time, we are a bit limited on what wall can come down, up or over so this is the best answer. I can't wait for Jack to bring it home because while I have many windows of natural light, its STILL dark in here!! It has outlets right on the side to switch my machine off and on with, and plug in other things such as my nifty swifty batting cutter, steamer, or iron! The best part will be that pure natural lighting from above.

I'll show ya when she gets here! Oh crap I just thought of something! Rudys tree is at te foot of Greta and I bet he is going to literally freak out with a monster taller than he.... I better go start talking to him about it. grunt.
Thanks Ronda for turning me on to Jack! I hope he can fix my hydrolics!

Smokin' Hot Pictures-Moomp Photography!

I would chat about this post, but I keep crying, and Lord knows how I try not to cry a dozen times a day. So if you would like to see some smokin' hot photography, go pop in and visit Heathers Blog site today. I think I will go and make a hair appointment for the Ginny girl.
Love ya H, TY!

Interesting Read/ Best Places to Live

I found it so interesting that there was only ONE California entry, AND I'M HERE!!! WOOHOO!!!

San Luis Obispo, California
Tucked into California's sweeping Central Coast region is lovely San Luis Obispo, Calif. Its warm, gentle climate, with temperatures rarely surpassing 90 degrees, is perfect for hitting nearby beaches or touring local vineyards. In addition, California Polytechnic State University, which is located in town, infuses the community with intellectual energy.
Although area home prices have fallen by as much as 35 percent over the past two years, the national housing bust may have also created another reason to make San Luis Obispo your home, says John Day, a local real estate broker. "There are just plain good deals" in the current market, he says.

Bottom has full article:)


Here's our list of the 10 best places to live:
1. Albuquerque, N.M.
2. Auburn, Ala.
3. Austin, Texas
4. Boise, Idaho
5. Durham, N.C.
6. La Crosse, Wis.
7. Loveland, Colo.
8. San Luis Obispo, Calif.
9. St. Augustine, Fla.
10. Upper St. Clair, Pa.

Consider this list a springboard to get you thinking about the qualities you're looking for in a Best Places to Live

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Best-Places-to-Live-usnews-15476164.html?.v=1

Quilting Retreats M & M's

OK, so, lets chat shall we? I would like to get this show on the road. It's time. I would like to begin promoting quilting retreats here at the B & B. Some with piecing teachers, some with Long arm teachers, some with just a houseful of girls for a great Stitch N bitch week end. Even one nighters! ( 2 days/1 night) I need your ideas. I'm open for anything, lets brainstorm together. I would like to start them in august or later, and arrange for them to be once a month. ( yes, call me a hot dog) I need my girls:) I need machines humming, laughter and music. Good wine, good foods. I'm gonna make it happen!
Last evening, we sat in the Saloon with 2 other couples. Both quilters, husband groaners. It was the most fun I've had in awhile! We had trunk shows, we had quilt pattern perusing, we fondled fabrics ( husbands groaned while discussing nascar). Grunt. Walt kept the appetizers coming!
It made me hungry. Hungry for more of the same. ( pals not appetizers) So.... This morning I have 6 flyers in draft form, head spinning, emails going eveywhere. So you peoples consider it, send me your thoughts, help me make this happen, and come over when it does! I'm off to quilt that big bad king frogging project of last month! LOL Amazing that quilters in the house gives me great motivation! Just think what a houseful can do!!
Thanks all in advance! Love your guts girls!

Marvelous Mondays Include:

Wine 30 & Quilt chat!!
This new coffee, Kona Peerless I think
A few slow days at the Inn to ponder new paths
Gottschalks huge sale for Clarins skin care purchases!
Loyal Quilt customers who follow me!

Why Do I Feel So Tired Inside & Out?

It's tough when you just want your Mommy, and you realize that you cant do that anymore cause she wants you. Needs you. I feel nearly helpless. Besides the phone, heads rolling, action plans.. I am way over here and my Sis has most of the burden. That hurts too:(It was great to visit with everyone, and entirely too short. I caught myself even "talking" fast. Grunt. Justin is growing his hair out and soon to become a surfer? My Aviana looks like a little sunkissed Islander..lol she is so cute I think that sometimes the very thought of her smile, her laughter or Nonni speak keeps me alive. I still hope to be better in time. I work hard at that, but I just do not know if I will ever be me again. Driving so many miles gives one a good deal of time to think, be it good or bad thoughts. You peoples know how I love to ponder eh...sometimes I hate that about me now. I dont want too, but its instinctual. It occured to me that I am STILL trying to find normal, pick up pieces, make things fit and be happy. In some regards.. in many regards... its harder, not easier. Lets clic k?
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About the B & B, anyone have a mind to try this, think more than twice about the work at hand. I cannot remember when I have EVER worked so hard in my entire life! Some good, some not so good. Rewards are from peoples, paychecks, and a lifes plan.( P's) Hmmm..... Everytime I want to give up, I think about the PLAN. I am not so sure that it will ever come to fruition. Sometimes obstacles, and issues... take over. I believe that I have just enough tenacity left in me to win. ( think positively G) I also think that it doesnt matter what plan you make, change happens.. and keeps happening! NOTHING stays the same, but change. I try to be ready for it nowadays with a plan B, C, D, etcetera.
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Today I am headed to Costco and local businesses to distribute the new brochures we made and the boss re made. ::change see?::: I have a visitor coming tomorrow that we actually know! Sharon & John will be here and we hope to have a nice relaxing week end:) I hope to be back with a wonderful picture that Heather took of us recently. Walt is very proud of his new "look"..lolIt is hanging proudly in the saloon, ( TY H!!) I need them through email so I can send around! and also reprint for the fam, K? Geez she's such a capturer, wait til you see it. Have a great week end everyone, Happy blogging:)

Sorry So Long Between Posts!

But I went to see my Mama. My Sis, My daughter & grands, My sons gravesite, my gal pal Heather.. all in 3 days and 800 miles. Whoa boy am I beat! I have a bazillion emotions to control, so I will chat with ya later. I just wanted to check in before I unpack while I have a much needed glass of wine, kiss the furry feathered friends and calm the nerves of my boss. I truly cannot believe how much I can CRAM into 3 days and NOT have a true blue melt down or 3.
BB ASAP
LYG!

Caution! Quilt Content On A Wednesday, Could Be A Trend!

I have no guests in house for at least 24 hours. I showered, dressed, took my meds like a good lil girl. I have cuppa in hand and I get to go in the shop and........and........and...............CLEAN IT? We shall see how far I get OK? I will use this day as a twitter page and come back to edit as I can... WHY? Because I think it will be fun! Inspiring! Motivating? Work with me people... push me please?
BBL with second cuppa thoughts:) Love yer guts!


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First up, A frogging we will go. AGAIN. Sick of looking at this, but it needs to get out of my hair, and beats cleaning right? Right. I have been frogging this thing all through American Idol. Problem is, Idol is over and I am not done!!! (chit)

I have June 1 deadlines, and I really must ge things done. I need a pusher. I'm just so tired when I have down time you know?

I kow I know... Why ya cryin? Grunt.

Bye, I'm on it.
And now I'm ready to go, flames and all.... and my stitch regulator wont work??? Help? Its connected, but is it connected right? GRUNT
5:10: It's wine 30 here! Yipee! Walt came home and solved the problem. I had it connected wrong. Thanks for WORRYING ABOUT ME!!! I hope I finish this tonight...we shall see.......

7:15, Frogging is officially done!!! WOOHOO!!!
Halloween quilt locked and loaded but not quilted. ( panto in waiting)
Tools unboxed, Gammil clean and humming
Books out of the boxes and in a cupboard??? ( well?)
Marking tape glue tools have a home.
Domestic has a home and is ready to run
I even managed to give my Linen guy static about the bills, and check inventory with him.
Thanks for coming with me today, those of you who did:) Now SCUSE me while I have a bath, another glass of wine, and Pass the hell out!

Celebrity Sarah Bear

So Guess who came to see us this week end? Not that we had an opportunity to play or anything, but still! A celeb IN DA HOUSE! I bet her Mom hasnt bloged this yet cause she passed out on the floor with pridom. ( is that a word?)

Ahuh, Famous lil thing now eh? Sarah Bear looks JUST like her mama in this picture! Same smirk, same same... WOW.. Heres one of her in our treasure chest!

Hey Am I in this Magazine under B & Bs? I want an autographed copy!

She's Alive! M & M's

Oh how I would love to have some pictures to show you, but they are all of vacationers here at the Inn! We had a full house, and our dear friends Heather, Kim & Sarah in the studio. MERCY. I think I am way too old for this. No really, I do! But, I am motivated. I have an adgenda. A goal. By Jeepers I will reach it or die trying. You all know what it is right? I thought so. I so enjoyed introducing many a travelor to my quilting studio and having my own personal trunk show each evening! LOL I think I'm growing quilters!!! And Might I add that if I dont get busy sewing soon I think I will have a mental breakdown!
Best part: Playing Rummy and just plain ole` girl talk with my Heather.
It makes me happy, and makes me miss my friends and family SOOOOO much. I met so many people on holiday too. They left fat ~N~ happy, thats how I like em leaving. Now, Walt & I are way beyond tired. Just looking at each other every couple minutes like, WTF have we done? At any rate, Hope all of you had a marvelous Monday, and I hope ya missed my posts too!

MM's Include:

The love of a good friend

Lotsa Happy guests!

A great dishwasher!

My buddy Marshalls!

Blimas great recipes!

Ginger the wonder dog!

Random Hump Day Ramblings

I still need a day off. I'm worried about my Mom. She isnt doing so well and sometimes I feel like I'm on another planet! I woke up this morning with more anxiety than I have felt in quite sometime. SO I grabbed a list pad.. go figure.
I will try my best to squeeze in a few days after this hoilday to get to Ma. We will both feel better, and although a driving crazy few days off... it will be days off from here right? Of course right. Someone reminded me to just work 40 hours a week. I laughed hysterically. Not even longarming afforded me that luxury, let alone running the B & B too.
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What you peoples think about last nights Idol? Did Paula forget to get dressed up or what? Walt and I are betting. I think I will lose, but I dont want to. Its a matter of Genre. He loves rock, citing Queen's head honcho compared to Adam, and I enjoy Kris, comparing his to one of my favorites, John Mayer. So we have a quarter on it. Thats my limit. As I said, I think I will lose, but I am in hopes that I will hear more from Kris soon. Adam can go on with his outrageous rockin tongue, and I will be soothed listening to Kris. Just a matter of taste.
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I did MOST all of the shopping for this week ends full house yesterday. I also have the task of finishing our studio decor for the over flow. I GOT TOLD. Grunt. Still I whine that you cannot take a 3 story home and squeeze into here. My part of here. I called around for storage facilities, they have a 2 year waiting list? Criminy! I think I should have an estate sale and get rid of it all. Sheesh. I better get to it. I miss reading all the blogs as I have time only to pop around while doing the pee pee dance. .. what? true!
Happy hump day, I'm off to open the kitchen!
LYG!

M & M's This Week Means Gear Up!

For next week end. I am in a bit of a state of shock? I have asked Walt if he is afraid. His reply? Nope... We Got This. ( Aviana speak) We are booked, over booked, and the phone continues to ring. I feel compelled to give them our own bed, but it passes quickly. :::FAGETABOUTIT:::
I wonder if this is a welcome mat to summer for us. I would like to know why they just cant spread themselves out a bit. I'm all for making the Boss bunches of money and all, but damn. I wont get to socialize much now will I? I have Italian eggs on the menu for day one. Spinach pie day two. Biscuits n gravy day three. I think 17 peeps each day. Lord help us. All of my breads and brownies will be done this week, and the kitchen is prepped and ready. I will hit Costco & Smart & Fianl tomorrow. Anyone have a truck? I think I need 72 eggs or so, and a truckload of fruit. Walt and I have it down to a well oiled machine in there.... for 6. Not 17. We shall see. To calm my nerves I spend the evenings frogging and list making. This quilt is making me mental and I hope worth the effort. I have a few in the works for the rooms upstairs, but who knows when THEY will be done right? I also have my Ronda Beyer challenge design sheet here. I must admit I stare at it like a deer caught in the headlights. Sip my cuppa, smile about Ronda, and continue to frog. Poor challenge quilt.
I'm looking forward to American Idol Finale! What a busy week they have. Maybe all of the frogging will be done by Thursday? Did you all see the gross pics released of Adam Lambert on TMZ? DO ya think its all a big publicity stunt show and not in our control at all? Sad.....
Have a good week my friends, I hear the fax going off...:::shakin in my slippers::::
Marvelous Mondays include:

The best restaurants on a single street I could ever hope to have!
A great partner in da house:)
Petty Cash for fruit stand pull overs
The quilts that keep me grounded
A good road map to follow
That dang cheese from England, cheddar with apricots! ( costco, go get some!)
No car payments woohoo!!

Underwear Days Are Under Rated

I need one. I just read that I'm too late! It was February 27th! Why didnt you people tell me?

I gotta tell ya, these people do not understand the meaning of Underwear days AT ALL! Look at em out there promoting my favorite day on the streets! It sort of blows the whole concept doncha think? I am here to tell you that underwear days are spent in your fuglies, at home, doing absolutley whatever will cause you to say when asked by someone later, "What you do today?" Your perfect response should be...... I HAVENT A CLUE- AND I LOVED IT!

Now understandably this just isnt the nature of a woman. We thrive on multi tasking while our not so better halves empty the brain and do nothing. :::sometimes with a beer and a remote:::( how are they hard wired to do this?)

It is difficult for we women to pull this off. I used to have it down to a science. I think Walt taught me how..lol That man can move a mountain, and then sleep on top of it! But nowadays...sigh. Both of ours are Gone. Even when I try I find myself thinking, writing, doing, grunt. What would be cool is to really clone myself and watch her go huh? yep. Side note while its on my mind: Ronda deserves an underwear day and a big WOOHOO for her win at MQS for Gypsy Rosalie. You know THAT quilt was a huge labor of love. Maybe now she will come down and hold a class here at the Inn. (I will squeeze us in an underwear day to play) Congratulations to all of the winners. I wish that I could have been there with my Sensi Jane.::::thinking about that whole cloning thing:::: Then I spoke to Blima (first time in I dunno HOW LONG) and I found myself homesick for Montreal!:::cloning::: I have a rainbow in the works with Heather coming for the week end, (along with the rest of the nation) I hope we get time to play.

Know what? I have a frogging quilt job to do, maybe I'll change into some fugly undies and frog the rest of the day away? Hmmmmm Wonder what the guests would think at Wine 30?

I have been putting it off this job for awhile given that its another longarmers work, sent to me to redo. You know thats hard huh?

I wonder if I feel bummed to have seen Danny Gokey go home last night? I was literally shocked. Now, theres not even any fun in the finale eh? It's a given who will prevail. JMHO. Personally, While talent beyond belief, Adams tongue all over the place is just not my cuppa. I am still freaking out over his Areosmith song.::: Put that tongue away Goober!!::: Go Kris the cutie! ( I see a young John Mayer in him somewhere, when he finds himself)

At any rate, I only wanted to say that never again will I under appreciate underwear days. Whenever I can get one:)

Marvelous Mothers Day Mondays?

So torn over loathing vs loving this day. Mothers Day. Is it possible to have done both? Will it be this way forever? I used to joke around about my "Sybilness" and now it really feels true. Damn. Sybil # 1 is enjoying every moment being a proud Mom, Grand Mom, while Sybil 2 stomps her foot pissed off at the world and beyond because I am a minus one child, Mom. And btw, how freaking selfish of me to always feel like I'm the only one in the world who must endure this?Lets forget me enduring and consider a LOST life! Few can see (I am sure) the tracks of my tears ::forgive the song referance, however true::: I can BS with the best of 'em, but damn, what a cool lie am I. Ok, ok, I'm sorry.. lets move on to Sybil 1 again shall we? I so enjoyed the family here to help soften the blow. I also loved playing with the guests who enjoyed the holiday as well. I REALLY loved all the extra hands in the kitchen from all of them and Walt just went above and beyond. Thanks Fam O Mine:)

Aviana continues to own me like no other human has or I believe ever will...lol she just makes my whole self (inside and out) smile. She brought a little friend with her(Kendall on right, who is a doll!) and I loved seeing the dynamics between the two of them. (she is bossy like her Mama) In This pic she isnt really THIS short, just ducking..lol

While at the beach she took a face plant and had to have stitches on her forehead. Her worries? "Do I still look like a Princess Nonni?" Melt I tell ya. The boys did amazingly well without video games for a few days! SHOCKER... Bored but happy they helped pappa with chores. I dont think that a B & B is kid friendly. Grunt. Baby Emily didnt think so either as her Mama had to hold her 24/7 , unless of course she was playing with the spout on the water cooler. :::or getting spoiled by Pappa sneaking her chocolates:::

I think there were 2 best parts. ( cause I like to name bestest parts)

When all were tucked in bed and the Mamas and I talked and lap topped together. ( ok, and drank wine). #2 When driving off... Aviana waving and yelling "You're a good Nonni". Melt I tell ya. Just melt.

So you see my Sybilness doncha?, Yeah, I thought so. I will leave you with a few photos, and yes, these are my M & M's for the week:::wink:::SAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!----->

The Haul

Camera Back up! Wanna see some really CUTE dresses? I tell ya, I absolutley love these little girl dresses! I just need MO MONEY for them! I guess you cant see them too well here, but its enough to make all my girls nuts wondering WHICH is theirs!!! LMAO!!! Well, except for the 4th of July, all the pics should be the same huh? Wouldnt it be cool if I had one pic of all the girls together in the dresses? Sigh..... You see there are rules. We made em, cause thats what we do. We only buy pretty lil dresses for our girls, and they only have to share a pic with us! EASY SCHMEEZY. I just sent the cutest lil yellow plaid boys outfit to Shawn and waiting for that picture:::STEPH?:::: It isnt easy to find cool boys clothes. Grunt. I do try. Not half as fun as lil girl dresses, but they love pkgs in the mail just as much as the girls do. ( I think) I get the biggest kick out of watching Avi on web cam squeel like a pig in a new :::PEETY CUTE DRESS:::: Or watching Sarah rip into a mailer pkg wondering whats inside JUST for her! Man... nothing beats a present I say. No matter the price tag, its a present JUST for them.:::little things::::

Also heres a photo of the new dining room centerpieces. I swear they look real, fresh, and with water! Love em:) come see! I better get to work, I have Moms coming!! Make it a great Thursday!

PS: Did anyone else shed a tear or 2 for Allison last night? Poor girl, but im sure theres a fat contract out there somewhere. I really thought Chris would go. My vote remains with Danny weekly, however I do see the odds on Adam...LOL

Happy Hump Day!

I'm refreshed. Arent you glad? I took yesterday off and wondered the Central Coast. I hit Outlets, Marshalls, Walmart, Bridge Street House Home Decor, Costco, and a gas station! LOL I had a great shoportunity, and I took it! I found all my grands a treat, read: dress; and Walt some yummy linen shorts. I found new centerpieces for the B & B dining room tables, and new sea shells on a rod for my bathroom window. ( dolphin this time!) Lets see, what else? Hmmm a new laundry basket, new set of king sheets, 600 thread count, bronze in color, $9.99!!!! :::ALERT THE MEDIA:::: I felt like that new commercial for Kohls ( which I dont care much for) where they say, " she shopped, she scored". I wanted to show you a pic of all of this, however my camera battery died. Grunt. I had a good time though, wanted to share. I loved listening to the radio all day! Now you make think this trivial, but here in Cambria Im lucky to have cell service once in awhile, and never radio stations! When my computer is all speakered up I will have live stream again... as with everything in my life... TIME.
Now I must get back to work. I hope the day off didnt set me back too far. I am preparing for Moms Day here at the Inn, and Im contimplating a THROW DOWN challenge from my BFF Ronda. I think if anyone can get my ass back to the shop, its she eh? Speaking of.... I so miss quilting, and even more so, my friends:(. So much sometimes I just feel like kicking the dirt ( as H says). I havent even spoken to B in so long its criminal! But, alas, I do have a goal. A dream. An end result, so I must stick to the plan. I'm not getting any younger you know. And while we are chatting about younger... does anyone find that you bruise easier later in life? I have so many nasty bruises on me its just nuts! I have a huge arm band one that looks like someone beat the crap out of me! Its just a lot of physical work I suppose. Another head scratcher is... WHY am I not losing any weight??? :::Kicking more dirt:::: My Walt is the incredible shrinking man, and I am still a little brown round woman!!! WTHELL!!!! OK, On that note, I better get to work, my coffee is cold and I've bent your eyes long enough.. Have a good hump day, lets all be productive:):::Self chat eh:::::
Love yer guts! G

Guess Who's Coming For Mother's Day? M M's

Even though I must work to make other Mother's day happy..., I get a treat too! I must get out sometime this week to find her ( and her dolly) a new pretty dress~. She so loves her girlie girl dresses:) The one pictured here is from her birthday. Now if only my lil Jamie would be coming too as I have a growing closet for her! Maybe I should adopt? Naaaaa this is way more fun. I can't wait to see them, but for now I better move my tail. Much to be done if I want tomorrow OFF!!
LYG Have a good week, and Mondays ARE marvelous:)

* For unsurprises for Moms day
* for lil shopping sprees for well deserved slave girl like me
*for my daughter
* for my last car pymt made:)
* for my pymt maker:)
*sales at Gottschalks
* Happy Pickford guests

Happy Birthday First Born O` Mine!

Hey Karen, Happy Happy Birthday lil girl:) I can't believe it, but I REALLY do did make you all those years ago! Still my right arm, I could sure use ya today as I have a half full house! I'm freaking out now over a cuppa....Maybe when school is over you could come?::::HURRY:::::

I'm so very proud of the woman that you are. The Mother, the nurse, the wife, sister, daughter,Auntie and friend. I know you wear many hats at this point in life, I remember. All I have to say is...... Your Gonna Miss This.......So try to enjoy the little things and commit them to memory. I love you and you'll be on my mind while I feed the multitudes this morning:) Have a great day and I'll speak to you tonight!

Prayer When Ya Need It, & Even When Ya Don't!

When I'm tired. When I'm feeling unsure of myself? When I miss my baby and its cutting me to shreds, and no one knows. When I cannot for the life of me figure out how I have a daughter in her 30's when I swear I'm still 30?

I think this is Mother Teresas prayer, not certain, but I use it anyway. Maybe a Catholic out there will know?

May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you..May you be content. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.

Directly after this prayer is always cited Eleanor Rosevelt...lol I dunno why? Its hard to be me?

"Do what you feel in your heart to be right, for you will be critized anyways."

Eleanor... where are ya?

It's a Small World Afterall!!

::::::::Singing:::::::::::::::

I met a fellow quilter today who knew me!!! How cool is THAT??? I was sitting in the hair stylists chair telling him about my job at the Inn, and my passion at the Inn, (quilting) and he says to me, oh! Right behind you in my daughters chair is another longarmer. I peeked in the mirror at the woman behind me and she gave a giggle saying, I THINK I KNOW YOU! Yep yep yep.. she knew deargina,,, whoda thunk? An instantly, I felt like I met a friend.:::finally eh:::
Her name is Loris and she drives an A1 here in Cambria. ( sounds so industrial huh?)
Well, I am just tickled and hope we can meet soon for some quilt chat and a cuppa. Know what else? She has a blog!!!! Go visit her, its on the right, Loris.::::::Waving:::::

First Quilts Hung-Marvelous Mondays!

Ya know you're home when your beloved quilts begin to adorn the walls. :::and beds::
The first two have been hung on and near the stairwell. Far too vintage to be utilitarian, but still need to be loved up! :::wink to Dear Blima::: I cant wait until the quilts go on the beds, WHOA, what a job awaits me. ( I'll get to it, sooner or later) FOr now, I'm thankful these are finally up!

*Quilts,& Trunks, trunks and quilts.... sigh

* Happy guests, reviews, and photos of :)

* Help in the kitchen!!!!, wait....more...!!!!!!!

*Fresh fruits & herbs here all the time at our local farmers mkt!!

*Late riser guests::wink::

Heard Humming?

Well now theres a break through. I think. Walt told me today that he had heard me humming for the first time in a long time, and it was nice. Poor Walt. The first line of defense in this rough time for G. It made me feel so bad but at the same time hopeful that there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel, however bright or dimly lit it is, or will be. I wonder what I was humming? I bet it was just food humming over biting into his yummy bisquits & gravy. ( Sunday Fare at The Pickford) I bet it really is quite odd not to hear me singing at the top of my lungs all of the time as he had been used to. Maybe he just loved to tell me how much my voice carried and to hush up a little? No matter... Humming is a good thing. I'll take it.
How goes your Sunday? Its a beautiful warm sunny day here in Cambria! I sure dont miss MORBID BAY. Not one little bit. It has been rather windy lately, but no depressing fog off the deck eh... I'll take it too. Our guests are off doing whatever guests do. I think one is Hearst Castle tour, the other wine tasting. I must return to the kitchen shortly to make more granola, banana bread and some brownies for tonight. I get such a tickle from the late night guests sneaking down here for a cookie raid. Men are just big kids arent they? Funny tale.... While Julie was here helping us to get moved in, I think it was day 3 for her... she complained to me. Hand on hip, foot to one side, head cocked. " So WHERE are the cookies that you put out for the guests each night?" ( we were guestless that week) I howled with laughter and told her she wasnt a guest, go in the kitchen and get your own! She went on to say that wasnt fun. She wanted to sneak down the stairs and raid the cookie jar in the lobby. Oh brother! No age limit on kids being kids is there?
Another hit seems to be the treasure chest idea of Walts. At the top of the stairs he wanted a trunk. ( we like trunks, old ones). A small trunk filled with surprises so that if the guests dared to open said trunk, they would find a little treasure to take home. I indulged this childish idea, and to my surprise the guests go nuts over this thing! I have seen them with lollipops, fake teeth, paddle balls, star shaped sun glasses and always chocolates! Just hysterical I tell you.
Jake will be happy to see our lemon drops in the lobby jar. Its a dispenser that shoots a lemon drop from a seagull, onto a seashell. I get a tickle watching the guests grab them before they hit the floor! LOL ( wait, maybe I'm a kid too). Ok so I have no idea why I am rambling on, I guess I better get to baking. Or humming... or both. Maybe ill go take some pics of above items for ya....
BBL
LYG
G

It's Gettin' There!

My desk tops up my desk tops up!! Sounds simple, but when I depend on the yahoo dinger and the music files, its pretty darned remarkable! Walt and I were once again multitasking yesterday at a high rate of speed. We got the shop further along, the desk top up, and all keys all these doors changed and tagged. WOW! We got up this morning, 6:00 am, coffee in hand, looking around as if to silently say, "whoa.... progress!"

Rudy is working on our nerves with his constant contact calls. He doesnt even like it eat alone. Poor thing wants to be hauled around, see the sights, be with his humans. We are just so busy these days. I tell him it will all calm down soon. I dunno who Im trying to convince, me or him.
I have been speaking to my son alot lately too. How I only wish that he would talk back. For some reason many snapshots are coming to mind when I least expect it. Things I didnt remember, or even realize about those first few days, weeks, months after we lost him. It startles me so, scares me, and again I begin to relive and must clic channels repeatedly. Things that people did, said... I guess I had it blocked? I keep thinking its been long enough. Come home now Jamie, I cant go another week without seeing you. But its just not going to happen, and frankly I dont know how I'll ever survive, but I do. I miss him so much. We all do. Battling the mind eh...Clic.
I shall wish you all a happy Friday as I must go and finsih up breakfast for our guests. Thankfully they asked for a "late" one...lol

On the Menu today( since I do remember foodie fridays:) is fresh fruit parfait( black, straw, blueberries and bananas) with vanila yogurt and granola, Maple smoked bacon strips, red potatos with chopped red pepper and onions. Scrambled eggs with fresh Pico de Gallo on the side, and those danged ole Abelskivers. ( psstttt I dont like em much, but everyone else seems to) Swing by, wanna bite?
Love yer guts!
G

Sham Wow!!

I told you people I was gonna do it! Its a nice break in all the work doncha think? Ssshhhh No one tell the boss k? ( Oh wait, thats me) Ok, type faster.

A few years I got excited watching ole Vince yak at me on infomercials about Shamwow. I like him. He is funny, unlike that annoying Billy Mays character. Walt said it was a sham. I said I know! SHAM WOW!!! I asked for them for Christmas. Not bad huh? It wasnt Emeralds, diamonds or Pearls, it was just a Sham Wow. Grunt.
I was at Costco a month or so ago and right in the door much to my surprise was a big colorful box of SHAMWOWS!!! I threw them in the basket. Walt took them out. This began an hour long debate about SHAMS, and SHAM WOWS. I put them back in the basket while Walt walked off to the clothes shaking his head, citing that I had just been "taken". PPfffttttt

I have since washed with them, dried with them, drained things on them,dusted,mopped, wiped, stretched, cut, thrown in washer, tested as a bath mat, and last night, cleaned the Gammil table and made it shine like the top of the Chrysler building! (I caught Walt Shamwowing the countertop too) All I gotta say is.. well... two things... I was so right,::::GOTTA LUB DAT:::: and SHAM WOW!!!! Go get some. $27.99 for the box. Money well spent. Now... I must tell you that I have since seen that my Vince has moved on to something new, and Im so not going for it. SLAP CHOP???? GEMME A BREAK HERE BUDDY!! Ya had me til that one:::wink:::

Marvelous Mondays in April

I'm still reeling from trying to pack everything from a 3 story house into my quarters in this house. Its difficult at best to know what you can live without for a few years, and what a girl needs to feel like, yep.. I have arrived, and this is home. I took many pictures... pics of my family and friends, the coffeemaker, the cuisinart, greta gammil and a couple beloved signs. I wanted to show you all that I need. And then the lightbulb went off. I just NEED to remember this. My Sis gave me this many many years ago and it goes where I walk daily, as not to ever forget. When my head is about to spin off and all lists seem too long. I am thankful for what I have. Left. ( because I do feel a terrible void) wait, shoot CLIC

Ok, so quite often lately Walt and I are looking at each other with the deer caught in the headlights and at the same time we say the same words. What have we done now???

We remind each other of all of the pros and cons lists that we made. Yep, we did it. I must admit that I dont think we realized the totality of it all. Chief cook and bottle washer. (what an under statement that is) I will leave with a grateful spirit though, and this Credo of mine that hangs all over round here. Oh, and one more shameless pic of needs at the bottom. :::WINK:::

Guard your thoughts; they become words.
Guard your words; they become actions.
Guard your actions; they become habits.
Guard your habits; they become character.
Guard your character; it becomes your destiny.

Yes, its true... my faster than lightning Bunn , and those miraculous ShamWows! I think I should go make more coffee now and get to work! I need a ShamWow blog too...hmmmmmm

Happy Birthday Dear Daughter In Law!

Idaho!! IDAHO!!! WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY:( Oh.... get it together G....

Happy Birthday Stephanie, I wish you were closer!! ( maybe Heathers sis Lori will go smooch you up) How old are you anyway? I am getting so goofy that I'm losing track of ages, birthdays, is this normal? I wish you were closer to quilt with me, I know that you would be a natural! I hope that you have a lovely day and are treated as special as you are.

Love up that cutie pie in your arms for me too!

Is It Just Me?

Or are you people having a difficult time with American Idol voting? What talent this season huh???I have my fingers on the texter, and really have a tough time deciding!( I have been loyal to Danny, however) Having said that, I am truly amazed at the voices coming out of the Season 8 box!!!
I have been retiring early lately, due to some health issues, so I can sit in bed and whine or yell all that I want to. READ: throw shoes high at TV. What? Purely cheap entertainment, and it keeps me off the streets right? Not sure I like the new Judge Kara, but Im keeping my eye on her. I sure hope I never hear crappy things about Simon, cause he really amuses me.
About the health issues. I'm kind of scared, so I finally made a doctor appt. Sure enough, as suspected, he has me running all over town testing things. GRUNT. This, I tell you, scares me even more.When I have a prognosis, I'll report. I think. Unless I have myself dead and buried, then in that case, refer to Walt.
I am currently trudging through boxes over here. The studio is about...shall we say.... HALF up and running. Walt and I are scratching things to make everything fit. Me thinks we need a Ebayathon for stash fabrics, then start all over again woohoo!Greta Gammil is back on the table in her new home, clean and shined whispering to me:) The pegboards are up, but we cant find even half of the thread boxes! The TV is up, and so is the customer shelving/closets/ oh! and the stencil pole thingy is hung. We cant find room for the ironing board or Rudy. This caused us both to stop scratching, leave the room and empty boxes elsewhere. I really would take pictures, but then YOU may run out of the room screaming! Soon, very soon I will have the machine purring like a kitten while Fergie blasts the room, and somethings in the oven! Soon...very soon. Chat soon dear blog readers:)

Happy Birthday Lovee!!!

I'm with you in spirt little one:) I'm so happy to have had her here last week end or I would really be mess eh?

4 years ago, Grandparenting took on a whole new meaning. You kn0w that Rainrops on roses tune from the sound of music? I use Aviana in place of their lyrics! It works...whatever it takes says I. This child is larger than life. Full of love and energy and everything in between. In a heartbeat she will steal your heart and is truly unforgetable. It only proves that the older I get, the less I can say that I know everything, because frankly my dear, I never knew this kind of love before. Wierd eh?Her personality is shining in this pic. Such a nutbar...lol

Monday, Phew! M & M's

How many by a show of hands thinks she needs an underwear day?
I KNOW ME TOO!!!
We enjoyed what little time that we had with Karen Art & Aviana, in between building things, unpacking things, and hunting eggs?Avi told me our house was too big to do this...lol
Its just amazing what we got done, really.
Poor Walt didnt fair so well with a trip to the hospital for slicing his forefinger while hurriedly opening boxes. ( watch out for those box cutters people!!) He will be fine, but he did 12 stitches worth of damage and had to have a tetenus shot. READ: painful. Avi, we decided needs piano lessons as she seems so natural at it. ( see pic below) We had a very nice dinner and our in house guests didnt even mind the bog blue bunny in the dining room at all? LOL
I'm so grateful for thier short visit that it was all I could do to keep myself from dragging them back into the house against thier will. Theres not a lot of rest for Karen in the nursing program for 5 more months. I'm so very proud of her. ( btw, came in handy with Walt bleeding all over too)
I am a bit blurry this morning, but on the attack list. Happy Marvelous Monday to all, and chat soon:)
G
M & M's:
That Walts wound was not worse!!
Karen & Arts help (come back Shane.....)
Aviana , heart food for me
Jakes call
Wine sales!!
Those darn robins eggs malt ball candies... darn it!!!
the found remote control!

A Girl Friday Needed

The daughters are coming the daughters are coming! :::not excited am I?::::

Avi, Art & Karen will arrive this evening, and Julie not far behind. THE BEST GUESTS EH! I wish Jake & Steph were coming too!:::grunt::: Jamie would love it here. Sigh. I would put him to work, after I fed him, of course. He would have a ball. Clic

I just finished serving breakfast and half cleaning. I have the longest list you have ever seen to do before the next check ins... THE KIDS!!!

I decided that Im doing very well with everything, tired as I may be, with one exception. OMG I hate cleaning!!! Dishes, floors laundry oh my! So like I didnt see this in my minds eye while making the decision to do it? I need a cleaning lady!!! who wants the creepy job cause I dont!!!

Yep, I need a girl Friday, preferably one who sews

rofl!

Hey, heres my girl friday.... she loves up the guests, then pulls up a chair and waits for more to arrive.What happened to Foodie Fridays??? Hmmmm

I got some banana Bread, wanna swing by for a cuppa? I know... you're scared I may put you to work huh? I better run...I hear the yard peoples out there... I wonder if they do floors?

Whats Today? Wednesday?

Not sure, its a big blurr right about now. Walt and I are truly over spent. We take turns whining, with a smile, of course. His thumbs, my hips. His feet, my bwain.
Psst... come mere...... ::::this is a hellofa lotta work!!::::
If not, I would say how fun it is. Right now I'm tired? It will come round, I'm sure. We have met some very interesting people I tell ya. Thats so cool. I just love that part. Walt has his spring vacation coming up so I think we will get a better handle on the "MOVE" next week. My studio needs attention asap as I have customers in there too! I really didnt expect so many guests right out of the gate you know? I hope to have some of our own here for Easter. I sure miss them. I put about a dozen calls on my to do list today. So far, Ma is the only one I have made. She asked me if I disowned her....dang it. I just need to hear their voices. Ok, and I need a nap. I hope all of you are doing well, and maybe missing my posts a little too? I have had no time to hit my own blogs. I think I better put them on a list somewhere to. Happy hump day to ya, I think?
LYG
G

Spring BREAK? M & M's

My foot, spring break. Gemme a break. Walt doesnt break until Friday, but that means nothing when he will have 9 days to accomplish all of this! I sort of thought that we would have a week or so before the guests would begin arriving during week days. NOT. I forgot about Easter vacations and teachers on holiday!!!! So...upon check in, I ask, " Are you a teacher?" The answers are coming in one after the other, YEP. So yes indeed, all of this week, I am cooking, Innkeepering, and unpacking boxes. Oh! Re packing boxes too, for cold storage. I sure wish that one of my kids were here to help me too dang it. I spoke with Jake last night and it made me so sad. I unpacked a box of old letters written by me( cause writing is what I do a lot of) and many of the letters were about Jamie. I hadnt seen them in years. In one letter he was only 16 and I was bragging about how he was so responsible and wanted to take care of me and didnt know how to. My heart is truly broken. I can only hope that someday it can be mended enough to smile about those days.
CLIC
Where was I? Ah yes.. Spring break I hope to see Karen and the kids at least. I have a HUGE list of things to help with. I wonder if she will make me breakfast? Come onnnnn Karen! I suppose I better get to all of these dishes again. I swear my nails are toast! ::no pun intended::
Have a good week, Happy Passover, Palm Sunday, and Easter shopping week!( dang I need to go shopping)
LYG!

M & M's include:

*Understanding guests at the Inn!
* Blimas recipe for Latkes!
*this "haul around" laptop
*fresh fruits n veggies, all year!
* My new bed...ahhhhh
*Prilosec, yep... Prilosec

You Say Potato, I say ROCKO!

Walt is a prankster I tell you. Here's how it went down............

First breakfast that I have taken over the house, the kitchen, the Inn. I have everything ready. Pots, pans, whips, processor, foods, drinks, I'm so ready for that 6:00 am alarm clock, even though its not my CUPPA right? Right.

I came out to the kitchen, oven on, heat on, coffee on, lets go! With half cup in me I got to the potato bowl ready to have a peelathon for my potato pancakes. I peel one, sip 2, peel 1, sip 2, then I grab a potato and think... what the hell? Its cold, heavy, is it cooked?It looks like its been boiled, ready to peel.... is it rotten? Ok, its a russet, not a yukon... :::stare harder:::: OMFG its NOT a potato at all! WALTTTTTTT! What a naughty trick to play on a poor tired sleepy woman, on the first day of cooking for the guests.....Its a ROCK!

Its a ROCK!!! He is ignoring my hollering, probobly doing a dick dasterdly snicker in a corner somewhere!

Large child.

I'm thinkin 12 ish.

Grunt

A ROCK!

Happy Birthday Emily!

It's nearly impossible to believe how time is whizzing past us these days, but yes...yes it has been a year since Emily arrived. Truly an unforgetable year. Happy Birthday Emi! Hope to see you soon!

Wheres The Studio?

This would make ANY quilter have a meltdown right? OK, so I'm not an alien. The last load has arrived. The shop and all of its contents. Cabinets, boxes, bags and batting, its in there. Grunt. On one hand, it feels a lot better having all of our stuff in one place now, but on the other......whoa. Nuff said.

I have no time to attack the studio since we have incoming guests tomorrow. I am concentrating on the kitchen. Its very un nerving to move into a kitchen, where there is an exsisting kitchen. I dont think "marrying" spices should be part of the move in process. Trash control seems to be an issue to overcome as well.

Hey! Can you peoples freaking believe we DID THIS???:::considering running down the street nekkid right now:::::

I did however get the beloved curio unpacked round midnight last night. The dining room/saloon is really becomming gorgeous! I may want to hang out in here more than the little living room we have for ourselves. Its very cool that I love old world decor. My entire house ( albeit a smaller scale) could just scoot right in! Sure helps for storage I tell ya!

I'll take more pics as time allows, but for now.. send "go gina go" thoughts so I can get this monster house together soon!

BB when I can LYG!