I Miss Us

The best exercise for the heart is to reach down and lift someone else up.

"Tim Russert".

That would be Heather Woman. I was having some fresh gound coffee while pondering getting my lists made today. I wanted to talk to her. I have these moments you know, as do we all with various loved ones. With H, she is running 10 years behind me and common ground is compromised. Little chittlins, and hubbies, and climbing corporate ladders, and then taking those pesky pictures of people...lol Not to mention social networking!

 I hope Im not old and wrinkled before she catches up to me! It wouldnt matter anyway, for we are joined at the heart. I love that... Being joined at the heart with my Besties! Dont you? :::sigh:::

I have Sistas from another Mother! I am so fortunate. Sometimes I feel that I'll go mental before I have face time with them.

I havent seen my Blima in so long I wonder if she is really real or just a figment of my imagination! I havent had a good road trip in 3 years!!! Wow... Its been quite a ride dear blog readers.... The good news is, I feel life being breathed back into me. Even though life kinda stinks right now.

 I have a new plan to see her in August. Plan K, or 11, depending on which way I list it on which day. I think her new pups will bite me when I finally meet them:( I want a lobster roll, and I want to steal coffee cups, and play in the Atlantic, and flirt with Irishmen! Flirt hell! I may steal a kiss this time!

 What is it five thousand miles to Montreal? May as well be millions. grunt. Which brings me back to Heather.. HEY WOMAN! Its only 200 miles!!! Get here if you can!

I think Ill go find more Bestie Pics and see who else I can whine about missing!!! Lets See.... Betty Anne... Sissy... Ronda.... Omg and more!   Lets have a cabin meeting somewhere and catch up!

Love yer guts !!!

G

Fingerless Gloves

Our greatest glory is not in never failing, 

but in rising up every time we fail.

- Ralph Waldo

 G found pinterest. This is trouble. God bless my flat ass right? Rut Ro.... I found a pair of fingerless gloves that I am daydreaming about! Now a year ago, I would never ave worn these. Now I dont know ow I braved the chilly days and nights without them. On the beach they rock too! I can quilt, unquilt, anything! So.... why I am telling you this. all of my fingerless gloves are terribly ugly! Incredibly ghetto! I need girly gloves dear peoples! Wait! I will go show you....scuse the mess around me as I am blogging before sleeping this time! IN MY UGLO GLOVES MIND YOU! Then you will see the ones I NEED!

MM Bloggers Block?

"Inspiration usually comes during work, rather than before it."
 Madeleine L'Engle

Forgive me Dear Blog Readers for I have sinned. been absent.
 Life is smack in my way right now! Really... I am simply trying to survive.  Its really maddening too. I think that the more I walk the better it will get. I am not right. LOL I'm looking for a cure. This made me smile today. I want one. From the death of a limb, comes beauty. How fittin`. Dont you love it?

Have a great week dear blog readers. Again, my heartfelt thanks for your caring emails that seem to carry me through.

LYG

MM Include:

A Stitch in time, saves my mind. Everyday. Grunt.

MM I Love Bold Colors!

Take care of Business, so your Business will take care of you!
K. Dee.

Bares repeating.................

 Morning! ( for a few more minutes?) I am busy sewing, cause it keeps me off the treadmill...ssshhhh.

Do you just love these colors?? WOW!

Its really fun to quilt these, for sure.

So did you peoples see the Golden Globes? Gorgeous dresses! Gorgeous men! I see facial hair is hot this year..lol Or is it just the stubble shadows are hot? Why is that the men seem more handsome as they age and we women have to work hard to erase every year? Not fair at all.  So... I am very behind on my movie viewing. I havent been since Money Ball! I'll put that on this weeks Master list. For now I must get a boatload of things done. I lost the Monday list because I made it last night! Not good... I need my lists!

Have A Marvelous Monday! LYG!

MM's Include:

Dinner out! Damn it was too long!

The phone ringing for quilt calls!

CONTROLLED sugar levels!

Pen Pals

My 50 dollar treadmill find! Thanks KareBear!

Latisse! My lashes are lengthening! Woohoo! Hitting my readers!!!

Friday The Thirteenth

"Become so wrapped up in something that you forget to be afraid."
– Lady Bird Johnson

I have a huge list but all I really want to do is make a fabulous Porchini sauce! Grunt. Its noon and I havent gotten my butt on the treadmill yet. Its on the list too. I suppose I have been busy fighting the funk if you know what I mean. Its what I do.

 I got my sugar under control finally. I was so scolded this week that it scared me! I tried to tell the dr. what a rotten couple months Ive been having, however she didnt seem to care. Or did she? anyway, I wonder why everything has to be such a battle. It would be so wonderful to have smooth sailing for just a little while. It will come, I can feel it:) I can actually see it there in the distance. A few trickles and I grab them, hold on tight, and it makes the fight easier. Things so simple like the mailman leaving me happy notes for no particular reason..lol The Soroptimist club calling to visit and invite me to join. As always S & B with the BFF keeps me going for a few days! Oh, another tickle is the grands calling on a new APP called TIKL. Its like a walkie talkie. All of a sudden I hear Avi screaming into the phone, NONNI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It almost puts her in the room! Fun APP. Theres no ringing, its just a close ones voice when you least expect it. I made her a pillow case with minkee leopard on it.. its so warm and fuzzy that she will swoon over it. Made a few more for Jamie too. I hope its out of my system so I can move on! I am pleased that I got through the first tee shirt quilt on Wednesday. I really didnt think I would, but Lindas company did the trick. After that last block throwing me under the bus, I had no hope for that poor thing. Thanks Punisher:) Now to bind it! Onward.....

I should get on the treadmill Dear blog readers... I will ponder my sauce:) TGIF and dont be afraid of Friday the 13th... you know, like I thought nothing of 11.11.11.... Ppphhhhffftttt



Changes A Foot: Maybe

"Ya got to take care of business if you want your business to take care of you."

K. Dee

Well, the words rang true enough today. I am trying to hold on to my passion of my quilting business. With my entire S.O.U.L.
I wonder if its even possible now? A supplemental business as I know, but I .... I....

I'm NOT getting any younger! I shoulda been rich by now! ( sorry, momentary loss in emotion there).

I saw these words on the screen from a friend, and it nearly threw me over the desk. Do I take care of it? Really?
 Must I REALLY put on heels and have power lunches and smile a phoney smile again? Come on... I dont want to:(    I love my jeans and sneakers, lunch with colleagues that consist of wine and laughter. Dancing and singing in my studio as if no one is listening/watching! Oh wait! No one is!!!!
 Hey, any market for a web cam quilter with a half ass good voice?
(white girls cant dance) Just saying~
 My Sensi.... in the beginning of this journey said to me. "All quilters have three lean months and they all begin with J."  I personally have never had this problem, until now. Its January. Chit. I dont see golfers backing off, why should quilters?
I printed my resume. Its Stellar. I was a good girl eh.... shoot. I will go ONLY if I MUST, but I will go kicking and screaming back to the corporate world. GRUNT.
Do you all remember the couple years spent as a superstar B & B Innkeeper? Yeah, it nearly killed me. Serious money made though right??? lol So not worth it. I dont even have the car I paid off anymore!!! WTF???    I never worked so hard in my life! I think back on that now and swoon over the tales told of all of my guests. The places they travel, the things they witnessed. Then I get pissed, because it should be me...lol
<---brat
 I have a sweet challenge this month! Dont mean to change the subject, but of course it did.
I have been comissioned to do a nice photo memory quilt with dogs! Its going to be fun! I am nearly certain that I will do it all in hand dyes. I love the natural elegance. But you knew that. Dont forget that NY goal of a poodle quilt!! I'll get to it.
Progress on the James Tee shirt quilt. Another mountain to climb. Its halfway through now. I take many breaks to change the channel in my mind. Jake will adore it. Today I wrote on one shirt James favorite farewell. " I'll see ya when I see ya".

OUCH.

The block I stitched it on was Jakes duffle bag that he gave to James upon his return from his tour of duty in Iraq. They were so close that I smiled about the young years when I thought that they would kill each other over Legos and transformers. I did something right. Or, it may have been the beer. GRUNT.
CLIC
Today is my favorite day of the week! Stitch and Bitch night! Who's swinging by? I have some fresh hummous and pita chips. Okay, and wine.
Love yer guts! G

Mom About the Town: Scarves. Beautiful Lovely Scarves.

Mom About the Town: Scarves. Beautiful Lovely Scarves.: Scarves are amazing. They are one of my trendy clothing obsessions. I think it's because they are a blend of cute, sexy, fun, fashionable...

Sisters Are Hot Mamas!

Happy Birthday Sissy!

Have a wonderful day and I hope that the family treat you as special as you are!

"Be a first rate version of yourself, not a second rate version of someone else."
– Judy Garland

MM Why Is Everyday "Begin Again"?

Did you peoples see it? Did ya? Omgoodness.... How magnificent was the full moon last night! I swear I could have roped it because it was so close! What a perfect way to end a perfect beach night. All the pondering in the world could not have prepared me for this beauty. It just reminded me that yes DearGina, everyday is to begin again.

I woke up after having a bad memory dream, but quickly remembered this sight. Last night I had Ottmar Liebert strumming his guitar on the CD player when I fell asleep to the moons view. I thought it was really crappy to have a bad dream after that! It is what it is eh?....grunt.

As I said, the morning brought the moon memory, and here we go... Lists on fire and thankfully I am quilting. Have a marvelous Monday Dear Blog readers!

LYG!

G



Marvelous Mondays include:

Sunday Beachday:)
Avi & Justin calling me on the new tickl app! lol Thanks Uncle Jake!
Sunshine in January
A cd player in my room!!!
Athena, my power stitcher!
Pistachio nuts!
Perfect strangers who seem to care.

Sunday= Beachday

I just couldnt take it any longer and loaded up the firewood, the dog and the wine and sat my butt on the beach for the day! night! It was wonderful, relaxing, and much needed. If i could figure out a wzy to write out there I think it would be near perfect! alas....two missing laptops will not allow me to. I had a great time anyway talking to families and walking Ginny. My fire was none to shabby either! I did have a rough time leaving mind you. I guess i played the car radio so long that it killed my battery. Thank goodness a helpful man came to my rescue. I was scared... pissed...and scared. I am so sick of being scared. We made it home safely and gin and I tucked in bed with sand in places we wont discuss. I think thta we should make this a Sunday event. Explore beaches...yep...good plan.

78 degrees and glorious on the beach today!

"Action is the antidote to despair."
– Joan Baez

Tee Shirt Number One

Jake... I used flannel, not Minkee. sorry?

But its loaded! call channel 3!!!! I think I need more pressure to perform well. NOT.

why yes i am there in the background, on my butt watching tv. I seriously need a treadmill. I look on craigslist everyday but nothing in tne category of FREE yet. grunt. I am working from the tablet here, is extremely frustrating too..I' learn it. Fear not dear blog readers..

Whats new with you? me, I am still struggling. Still positive. Still faithful. Yeah, call chanel 3 about that too.

Happy Birthday Linda!

I hope that you enjoy your day, and your year of being fiftyish and fabulous! I am grateful for your friendship and quilting mad skills! Your kind heart and positive nature picks me up and carries me through crap that I dont wish to go through at all!
Love yer Guts Girl!

Quilty Resolutions Only,Thanks

"I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the year's."

Henry Moore

I believe in the above statement. Whole heartedly. However, I am considering amending this slightly to accomodate a few quilting goals.

 *I really would like to not just attend, but to be a vender in Art In The Park Festivities here. I did the Lodi Street fair quite a few times and had great fun. So many tourists here just desire to take home a quilt! So I'm all over it. It will require many many quilts, and a few friends. :::wink to da sistas::::

*I swear to Budha that this will be the year I actually make an applique quilt!!!. I think it should be poodles. If I cant have my standard yet, I may as well make a quilt while I wait! ( shoot, now its in print)

*I wish to expand my quiltmaking for SLO Womens Shelter, and the SLO warming shelter. What awesome programs, amazing people. I may even join the Womans Aide Society:)

*I will take a class to learn a new technique. Yes I will.

* Learn EQ 7 and make one!

*I WILL finish Jamie's Tee Shirt quilts. When is enough really enough? The six million dollar question? You will know. Yep, you will.

* Oh! I need a new baby boy quilt for a Christmas 2011 arrival!

As far as the other kind of resolutions? One day at a time. Baby steps. Healing.

You peoples going to tell me of your quilty resolutions? Or other kinds?

Happy 2012 Dear Blog Readers. LYG!

www.deargina.com



Almost Through These Holidays!

"I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the year's." Henry Moore

Good Morning:) I see that ten days have past since last we chatted? I'm sorry. I cannot even say that I have been too busy. You peoples now how I feel about downer blogabouts, so I dont write about downer days. Tis a shame, because I would really love to.
Thank you all for your caring emails. What would I do without ya? They feel like a nudge and a prayer all at the same time. I like it.
It was wonderful to be with my family over Christmas days. Just for awhile I didnt have reality stinking up my head. I arrived home last evening and again flip flopped all night. The traffic was just incredible,however I had a great Audio to drive with me. Breaking Dawn! ::Sigh:: Great readers.
I'm off to run a million errands, have a great day Dear blog readers. I'm trying?
G

Marvelous Mondays:

Family days
Safe drive
Ginger. God bless my Ginger!

Guess Who's Coming For Christmas?

I cant wait to see them!!!This is my Son Jake and his BEAUTIFUL family! Stephanie, Shawn, and Jamie. I cant wait to see them! Oh I said that.... I know it will be ever so short, but I will love em up while I can. I havent seen them since August and I tell you, these kids grew a foot!
Even though its a very crappy time, I will still find Christmas in my familys arms.

Messenger Bag Obsession Now

I guess its keeping my mind sane right? Of course right. Im so sorry that Im not writing. Life is really rough right now. I will be fine, no worries. ( Never let em see ya sweat?)

This cheetah is for my neice. I have a bunch going in different varieties. I will post when I can. This one has the coolest glide verigated thread that doesnt show up. I am also hanging out with my crystal bejeweler!  A stitch in time, saves my mind!!!

Love Yer guts!

MM

Week Ends Still Stink!

Bored! What happens when I'm bored? I do crazy things like Bling my butt! I have had these jeans for awhile now. Nice, boot cut, except that the back looks like a mens slacks back! So... I blinged it. Then I looked around for other things to bling. Nothing is safe when I'm in this mood. I had to hide the tool box from myself! Then, I decided to make a messenger bag. I got as far as a nice hand dye and a leather, quilted it, and lost focus. I really must finish up Christmas gifts, but my poor brain is scattered. WAY too much on my plate. Its disturbing my artistic harmony for sure!! And its so cold I cant think!!
( no, I'm not bitchy am I?) Love yer guts!

DearGina Up!

It's Official!

www.deargina.com

Lives again!!!

Go see!

Hurry!

Leave me love notes!

Ideas!

Suggestions for more content!

Pretend I have a white board and we are doodling a million ideas and see which ones stick!

Market Me!!

Ya want me to keep going with this?

Okay then! Go See!!

A much appreciated thanks to Heather for all of the many hats that you wear, including a G Hat:)

Love YOU!

Oprah-ism

Breathe.

Let go.

 And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.

 Oprah Winfrey

No guarantees eh? Yep yep yep. Proven. How is your Friday going? I made a list and had breakfast? I function so much better late morning on you know. I think its sleep, or lack thereof. I spent most of the night following Ginger around because she had a tummy ache. I wonder if I gave her too many cookies? ( well, someones gotta eat cookies round here!!!) Oh shoot! my pills! brb.

So wait until you SEE what Heather is doing with the revised web site! Its a big PITA so its moving a bit slowly. This one will be easier to manage myself, because she has a full plate with all the many hats she wears!Stay tuned!

Other news... I have a woodpecker making me absolutley MENTAL this week! He just wont stop! Its usually right in the stairwell, and between Ginger barking, and me running to the door, its nuts! Anyone know how to stop a woodpeckers knock?

Sorry no Foodie Friday for ya. Im still perfecting the cabbage short rib soup:) I think just one more correction to perfection! I'll make another this week end and let you know. I STILL think I should be the beach soup Nazi...  No Soup For You!

I have Linda's Japo loaded today:) I am putting Ginko Leaves on it in verigated King Tutt. I dont like king tutt. grunt. Or should I say... Greta doesnt like it? I personally LOVE the look, I just dont think its worth the PITA! Well, Linda is, so onward says I.

 I leave you with a funny.............. TGIF



Then What?

"Then What?"

Dr. Daniel Amen

Morning. I listened to this doctor on PBS and rather enjoyed it. It was about changing the brain. Google him. Fascinating seminar. In the middle of all of my post it notes I stuck one up with above qoute. It can really be applied to absolutley anything! After I eat this cookie, then what? After I say this, or do that, then what?  In my subjective opinion, it keeps me "mindful" of all things big and small. I love it. I'll use it.

 I got a nice surprise this morning. The ever magical H woman is boosting my website and making it user friendly! Then what? Then I can manage it, and you peoples can gather information to send me your works of art for finishing!Also, see whats new and whos zoomin who! See! It works! My DQL will be improved with this new site!

 Stay tuned:)

I have a long list of to do's so I better get to it. I am not doing so well on Christmas gift quilts, but I am trying for sure. I get so easily side tracked with other things. Organizing this shop mess being one of them. I dont want to talk about the others. THATS for the scary journal. CLICK

Have a great hump day:)

LYG

Coffee Blogabout May Be At Wine 30

"Never apologize for showing feeling.

 When you do so, you apologize for truth."– Benjamin Disraeli

Ya never know with me these days right? Its wine and cheese time, not coffee and cottage cheese time! lol  Sorry, I was seeing Mr Wizard. Good Lord I needed it too! It helps to not beat myself up so much. Thats what they tell me anyway. Also to my Dr Appt, did you remember the fateful December meet up? Yep yep yep.. You will be pleased to read that I do not have to go on insulin yet! I lost 2 more ( Ill take it) pounds! Which has given me another month reprive. New meds too for the Neoropothy. I have no idea what it is, but that other stuff was awful!  So I seem in good spirits yes? Well, I am experianced at faking it til I'm making it!. Its what I do. Mister Wizard thinks its healthy. I'll take that too. I enjoyed leaving the frost and venturing into the sunshine today. I left all wrapped up, and returned with layers gone!

I am thinking about my Uncle Henry today. He is my biological Fathers brother. He died Sunday night. He had a long and wonderful life, and we loved each other very much.I spent a good deal of time with he and my Aunt Edith in my youth. I adore my cousins and I hope I never lose my Terranova family. I guess Im thinking of him because it is really EERY how every year in my life, someone is leaving. Like clockwork. It occurred to me that it might be my age. My generation the next to go? It all began with Uncle Smiles remmebr? Just before my James untimely death. Three more loved ones, in three more years. My Dear Mother, my young sweet neice, and now Uncle Henry. I find this quite EERY. Its no wonder that I can go nowhere without a slight panic attack wondering who may or not be MIA while I'm away. PTSD.

 I was cooking Thanksgiving dinner and when Avi played Sanja on her playlist I melted down over giblet gravy. Seems that these things happen while cooking... It hit me about this loss, and loss of other kinds. At that very moment I was overwhelmed with a sense of loss, grief, sadness. While hugging it out with KareBear, I felt peaceful too. Peaceful in the knowledge that all be be well, no matter what. I haven proven that I am a survivor. Whatever it takes.

The gravy was saved, and delicious as always. ( so they told me)

No idea why I am rambling away. Only one sippa wine, swear!

Here is a sweet photo of Ma and Uncle Henry a few years ago. I think I'll go finish my new Russian Zoupa! See me Friday for the outcome!
PS: Have you ANY idea how hard it is to fake it till you make it???

Never Forget How It Made You Feel

"People will forget what you said; People will forget what you did.

But people will never forget how you made them feel."  

Oh Mercy how true is that??? Good morning:)

It's Monday and I'm looking for gratitudes in my sleepy head. I found some, no worries.

 Its tough when its rough eh? Yep, yep, yep.

I was up far too late last night. Feel crappy now. Ginger was "on duty" and kept me up due to neighbors fooling around outside. I have much to do so the coffee is going in fast. Bummer too because AGAIN I missed going for blood work because of the coffee! Dang it!

Its absolutley freezing here this week! In the 20's and now I hear the teens soon! Is it going to snow??

I will try to RE Tackle Tee shirt quilts this week too. Lets call them Christmas. Sad. Click.

Aviana called 3 times yesterday while I sewed away. It was fun. I need a photo of her snatching a parents phone and speed dialing her Nonni...lol I think she may have been bored. I like it. She even called once while I was in the theatre! ( mental note: turn off phone like the screen says)

Sigh.. I hope to see the Baby Grands soon.

I think I'll make a new soup today. I have lost a few more pounds and it is giving some motivation! I have been drinking this Chinese tea at night, and I hear also that cabbage helps. So I shall dream up a soup. Stay tuned. I used to like those Russian soups.. I remember Ma making them. I ll have to research that. I'm really SICK of chicken, for sure. Thats what happens when you buy out the birds at Costco eh? I'm off, you peoples make it a great day!

M & M's include:

Help

Aviana Calls

The Twilight Saga! ( A nice distraction)

An awesome lil lotion from Bec, Dolce & Gabbana " The One" How fittin`

Twilight Saga

A little late, but I finally am up to speed with the Twilight series! Go me! My Sis just KNEW that I would like it, no matter how many times I told her that I had absolutley no interest in Vampires and Wolves. She is just trying ever so hard to distract my mind and heart for awhile, however little it is. Thanks Sis. So... I was mistaken! Totally investied in the series I watched three, back to back and now I'm hunting a movie buddy to take me to see BREAKING DAWN.
WOW! How entertaining was this??? Not reality mind you, but darned good entertainment! I think I will call my Baby Grand "Bella" Now! ( her middle name) I just heard about the MOST popular baby names this decade and of course all of the Twilight people rule. Jake, Edward, Bella, Charlie...etc....
 I personally think Bella should have gone back home long ago, but then where would the series be right? I am still stuck on the whole no blood inside of a vampire anyway. I mean... no juices inside? Ya cant do that! Theres no lovemaking without blood, come onnnnnn
Oh yeh, fiction entertainment, I forgot. I nearly ralph everytime one is killed and thier bones break and resemble a mannikin. Speaking of Mannikins.. I think I want one! yeah, A male one.. I'll call him Wilson and stick him in the window. Dress him all metro-ish...or naked? My Bestie has one, her name is Eve... She's a looker too:) Oh! I'll call mine Adam!  I know what youre thinking... Oh Mister Wizardddddd G's gone round the bend.......
So.. who wants to go see Breaking Dawn with me?

ADDED Tonight: Awesome movie!! I went alone in celebration of finishing a big task. I did our new VIP Screening room. Complete with red rockers and wine. What a kick! The movie ( Breaking Dawn) didnt disappoint! WOW... WOW..., OKay, so I 'm hooked.
Wheres my cuppa blood?
Ewwwwww
PS: That dingy Bella totally made the wrong choice. Poor Jake.

Thirteen Inches Whacked Away!

As you peoples can see by the LOOK on my face, I am totaly unsure and in shock myself!

 Man, I guess I could never have a poker face eh? Not a stitch of make up on, this is really unplugged...LOL

I LOVE the color, but its too short. I have played with it a lot, and got it a few ways that I think is fun.I am getting used to it, although my neck is chilly! Ginger keeps sniffing me like WTF? I say its less hair to PULL!!!

I asked Amer if I could donate that tail of cut off hair, but sadly, it must be untreated hair and mine was not.

 So the pile on the floor was quite strange to say the least. I dont know that I will keep this length, but I will keep the layers of height and volume:) I was amazed at how easy it is to wash and condition damn near no hair!! (well, in comparison)I need some BIGGO earrings now. Yeah, put THAT on the list eh? Thanks for the Treatment KareBear!

 OK, good coffee break, I need to sew. A stitch in time, really does save my mind.

LYG

G

Too longer for fifty??

December is Breathing Down My Neck!

"None of us will ever accomplish anything excellent or commanding

 except when he listens to this whisper which is heard by him alone."
– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Morning:)  It would seem that all roads lead to the December first deadline for me eh? Much to do!

I have bloodwork due in, and the BIG decision that my doctor will make as to whether or not I have been good enough NOT to be put on a lifelong sentence to Insulin shots. I think I will please her ( and me). Not that I have lost anymore than 12 pounds, but I have changed my diet dramatically. A few things left to change up , but I'm proud of the ones I have accomplished. My sugar levels are all over the map these days, but for the most part, LOWER than before. Oh how I would love an almond crossaint right now.

Did I say that?

 SYBILL!!!!

The good girl is eating her cottage cheese and peaches. The bad girl is dreaming of the crossaint.

Speaking of dreams. They are back! Remember when I couldnt sleep due to horrid dreams? Yep yep yep... happening again!  My sleep patterns are genuinly messed up due to current issues. The dreams change drastically by the hour, jumping from incredibly sad, to uplifting surprises and happy feelings. Kinda like Monsters verses Santa Claus! No kidding! One minute theres a present in my bank easing the stress, and coming out of the bank my car is sparkling clean and purring.. then the next hour theres a monster in my kitchen window choking the life out of Seymore a favorite plant! Wierd wierd wierd. Now... I have to say that I gave you an easy example because you would run down the street naked screaming if I told you a HARD dream. Not fit for print. Period. Lets CLIC shall we?

Did I tell you that I whacked my hair? I did. I am a fiftyish person, and never in my life have I had short hair. I do now. I needed a change. ( I'll do anything right now to lift my own spirits). I'll show you a picture when I do it up. Right now I resemble a close relation to Tina Turner. I'm SO not kidding either! I was blessed with this bucket O hair, and no matter what I wake up like a lion. ( in more ways than one). My family says that it took ten years off, so I'll take it!!!! Now I just need a face lift, neck job, boob job...etc....

I have to hit the road... shoot I'm late for an appointment!!!

LYG!

PS: Ginger's yakkin too!

http://poodleperspectives.blogspot.com/

MM Yes, I am Here Somewhere

It's damned hard to beat a pesrson that never gives up.

Babe Ruth

 

I'm in hopes that everyone had an attitude of gratitude this past holiday. I tried too. I suppose that I always will. You peoples KNOW how I feel eh? I have suffered the ultimate and still I breath, so nothing will destroy me. It's a good thing. Lets move on. CLICK

What are you working on this week? I am bouncing from kids Christmas quilts to mounds of paperwork, and making soup!I am invoking the "use your resources wisely" and thinking positively for that one elusive lottery win. My lists have never been so wierd ever! Post it notes abound because I think I need to remember myself these days! I sometimes wonder if it has anything to do with the diabetes? My sugar, try as I may as been uncontrollable lately! And yes... I am behaving. Not losing, but eating right and being quite mindful.

I also have noticed that my fingernails are weak. While usually tuff as steel nails, are now just paper thin and wiggly! I am SO NOT LIKING THAT.

I know I have a doctor appt soon.. I need to FIND that post it note. ( lil jokey)
 I have been writing, however not fit for print. As always thanks SO MUCH for your caring emails, they REALLY do help me.

MM Include:

Family and friends

Monday? Tuesday?

OK, I think you peoples should send me some work so I can STOP making potholders and pillowcases and survive! ( this sounds like a country song)

Good Monday Morning:) Second cuppa thoughts....

What follows  "I AM" will come looking for ya!

 I am a survivor
I am successful
I am stronger than I know
I am going to win a huge lottery
... you get the picture right?
I should call Mr Wizard and tell him.

Its easier to say the negative I AM's.. but I dont want THEM to come looking for me. Such as I am poor, I am a victim, I am old, I am... you get it right cause its bugging me to type this)

It really is difficult to use the I AM's and believe it, mean it, live it, but its so worth it.
I suppose this should have been a tell all tuesday post instead of a Marvelous Monday right? Oh well... I have them all mixed up anyway. You people put YOUR big girl panties on and deal with it with me!! LOL
Oh look, she chuckled. Hmmm
I have said for quite some time now. I have been through the worst in life and still I breath. Nothing  can be worse, so forward I move. Rut ro.. I feel it.... CLIC

Marvelous Mondays include:

One quilt to quilt
Friends and Family
Gingers devotion. SHE knows the meaning, as do I.

I AM..............a Queen

Hot Buttered Rum

I decided that I needed a booster shot and the wine wasnt the ticket tonight. Its cold and rainy inside and out so I went to work. AFTER I boiled some eggs. Wierd I know.
Its fabulous and hitting the spot. I just hope that it doesnt make my sugar level go sky high!!!It has been off the charts for a few weeks now. I am trying but I cant seem to keep it low. Not a clue?

 BTW, I hadnt bought rum in quite some time, and damn! How expensive is this stuff???? Teeny little bottle of the best was ridiculous!
Side benny: It seems to be calming my month long nagging cough too! ( must be the honey) Naaaa

Hot Buttered Rum

2 or 3 ounces Myers dark rum

lemon peel

 Stick cinnamon

 A pinch of cloves

1 Cup Apple Cider ( I should have used water, less sugar!!)

 1 tablespoon butter

 A pinch of Nutmeg

1 tsp Honey

Put the rum, lemon peel, cinnamon and cloves in your favorite large mug. Heat the cider in a pot to the boiling point and pour into the spiced rum mug. Add the butter and stir well. Briskly stir in honey and grate a little nutmeg on top. EnjoyJ

oh! PS: I'm still trying to write. Its just really snot filled so I dont hit send. I gots these on though..................

 LOVE YER GUTS?

Ginger Has Stuff To Say!

http://poodleperspectives.blogspot.com/

Thanks So Much

I'm trying. Really I am. I am so very grateful for your caring emails. Keep em coming, as I need all my Homies now:) I thought this was quite fitting GIF for the day since I cant seem to blog effectively.

Love your guts!

Dark Days

A Thought

Let go. Why do you cling to pain? There is nothing you can do about the wrongs of yesterday. It is not yours to judge. Why hold on to the very thing which keeps you from hope and love?

-- Leo Buscaglia

Work Wednesday, No Breaks Allowed

Yes, that would be me this week! Sorry Dear Blog readers, but I'm trying to get a "family fix" this week end, therefore I am buried in work. I seriously need a maid. Grunt.

Love yer guts!

Yep, It's A Monday Alright......

Experience is simply the name we give to our mistakes.

Mornin`. Four days is all that I have left on a HUGE king custom. YES, I am afraid. Very afraid! I didnt get further than two rows and a border all week end! ( STRESS)

 I just went to buy more coffee. I'm gonna need it. I was actually aprehensive about going to the store and missing the verdict for Conrad Murray trial come in! It didnt happen. Ya know........90 percent of our worries never materialize, so why bother right? Easier said than done. I wish sometimes that I had a genuine give a rats ass attitude about many things, but its an impossibility for me.

I'm having such a great time bonding with the new Janome 1600P. Its just amazing what the right tools can do for your work. Same as kitchen gadgets/tools. It simply makes the work a pleasure. Having said that, I seriously need better piecing skills. I WANT to love piecing, like I love quilting, however it escapes me... the pleasure.... its more frustrating. Can it be alright if ones passion lies in quilting rather than piecing? I think...............one must be at least proficient in piecing while passionate about quilting. Product/construction knowledge. Yes.

OK, so off I go! Much progress to be done here. I wish to see my family this week end so deadlines a plenty.

Have a marvelous Monday, and I'll try to.::wink::

M & M's include:

ZOOMing on the new domestic

My new stronger eyeglasses on order! I cant see a dang thing!

Argon Oil in my lions mane hair. Keeps her tamed:)

Hearing Avi's excitement about Nonni coming and bringing her something. I havent seen her in so long!!!

One tee shirt Quilt down, 3 to go!

Broccoli & Cheese Soup With Bacon Topping

I know it isnt Friday, but I'm quilting while rain pummels my new patio cover! This causes anxiety, so... she cooks.

With every effort to reduce carbs, I love a couple things.. Soups,Breads and CHEESE! So I adjusted this heart attack in a bowl soup to suit my diet.. VOILA! My old recipe has SO much cream and butter and topped with yummy croutons!!! DAMN IT!
 I'm not sure what thrilled me here, the nutmeg or the thyme! Its delish, and you must give it a whirl! Karebear? The kids will adore it!

4 TBSP Butter ( 1/2 stick)
1 Large Onion, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Pinch of Nutmeg
1/2 tsp Minced Garlic
1/2 tsp chopper Thyme leaves
3 TBLSP Flour
3 Cups Chicken Broth
2 Broccoli Crowns chopped into florets and blanched (can sub for 1-16 oz frozen florets)
1/2 cup Half & Half
2 Cups sharp cheddar Cheese
Crumbled bacon for topping ( fry up 6 slices, drain and chop)

In a Soup pot, melt butter over med high heat. Add onions,salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook stirring until soft, approx 5 min. Add garlic and thyme and cook stirring until aromatic, about half a minute. Add the flour and cook until well blended. About 2 min. Slowly add the stock while whisking constantly. Bring to a slow boil. Reduce heat to med low and simmer until thickened. About 5 minutes. Add broccoli and cook 10 min longer.
Remove from heat and puree in batches. (be careful). Return all to pot and add the cream, heat through. Add the cheese and cook until melted.
Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon bits.

* to blanch florets:
boil a pot of water, drop florets in, cook 5-7 min. remove and drain. (skip this step if using frozen package)

Spinach & Sausage Stuffed Peppers

We arrive at the truth, not by the reason only, but also by the heart."

– Blaise Pascal

Dang, I couldnt have said it better myself.

Morning:) How you peoples this rainy Friday? I woke up a bit panicky today, thinking about the king custom I am to attack. Then I opened the freezer and starred at sausage I want to cook. Shutting the door and pouring the first cuppa I spied the tee shirt quilt I have almost completed as of last night. It also needs my attention. Then theres the WALK to get in, and the dang dirty floor to mop. The bottom line is that I really want to curl up into a fetal position today, with a good book and contimplate the future.

Alas.... I've no time for that. Second cuppa thoughts say "move your ass lil girl... put the big girl panties on and forge ahead."

Fine. But I really need a good coffee chat in real time. It happens.

Here's the recipe that I was GOING to make today. Blima found it, and I hear tell its fabulous! Maybe tomorrow. Maybe not.

I will use red peppers as green and me dont get along well:)

Spinach & Sausage Stuffed Peppers

1. One 5-ounce bag baby spinach
2. 2 slices of white sandwich bread, finely chopped ( I used whole wheat)
3. 1/4 cup milk
4. 1 large egg
5. 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
6. 2 tablespoons pine nuts
7. 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
8. 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
9. Salt and freshly ground black pepper
10. 8 small or 4 large Elongated Red peppers—halved lengthwise and cored, stems left intact
11. 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
12. 1 cup canned tomato sauce
13. 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1. In a very large skillet, cook the spinach over high heat just until wilted, about 1 minute. Drain and press out all of the water. Coarsely chop the spinach. Rinse out and dry the pan.
2. In a large bowl, knead the chopped bread with the milk, egg and cheese to form a paste. Knead in the pine nuts, onion, sausage and spinach and season lightly with salt and pepper. Using lightly moistened hands, divide the mixture among the pepper halves and lightly pack it in.
3. In the skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the stuffed peppers, filling side down, and cook over high heat until well-browned, about 4 minutes. Turn the peppers and cook until the skins are browned and blistered, about 4 minutes longer. Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth, cover and simmer until the sausage filling is cooked through and the peppers are tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to plates and serve right away.
MAKE AHEAD
The stuffed peppers in sauce can be refrigerated overnight.

The Quilter Ten Commandments

1.Thou shall not buy another piece of fabric until thou has used two pieces from thy stash. 2.Thou shall not pre-wash RED fabrics with your family members WHITE underwear. If you neglect to pre wash the aforementioned RED fabric and it bleeds all over your completed quilt,thou shall not whine. You may, however drink some. 3. Thou shalt name all beloved machines as if they belong in your family. 4.Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's stash, but you may try to weasel your way into their last will and testament through kindness. 5.Thou shall not work so much on your Grandmother's Flower Garden that you neglect the one outside.There is a reason why you are developing quilter's butt! 6.Thou shalt remember to bestow upon your dog much attention or else she will leave you a poopy present under your sewing machine while you are out running errands! 7.Thou shall not feel obligated to wash any dishes while you are developing a new technique. Or cook stuff. 8. Thou shall not neglect the lint under the bobbin case,otherwise your beloved machine may spit it out at an inopportune time! 9. Thou shalt not sew fabric strips at Mach One with your hair on fire, without occasionally checking for a bobbin thread. 10.Thou shall not pin baste your quilt to the carpet. Or a waterbed.

Ole' Elna Meets New Janome!

"I just kept on doing what everyone starts out doing. 

 The real question is, why did other people stop?"
– William Stafford

Out with the old and in with the new?
NOPE. I now have a tool that I can enjoy going Mach one with my hair on fire!!!It really doesnt do much else, but it does that Extremely well! Backwards, forwards,  FAST
 HOWEVER..... Ole Ellie has some stitches I cannot do without! Next I think I'll get a new serger, and an Embroidery machine!

I'm A HOARDER!!!!

<---keeps her off the streets.

I think I should REALLY clean the shop after looking around here..lol I'm over the moon for this new machine. Man can she go fast! Oh I already told ya that,didnt I?  I damn near stitched my finger nail mending a shirt this morning! I didnt tell you peoples THAT!

Purr? Purrrrrrfect! The speed and extra throat space will allow me to bind more efficeintly. It can take heavy flat fell seams too. Bring on the denim now Baby!

Heres a thought. What if each machine had a remote on them and they could all purr in unison? WOW what a thrill!

<---needs a life

She needs a name.. A thunderous name... like THOR or something...lol. Ellie has a name..Greta has a name, the car has a name! No machine shall be nameless... There are rules. commandments!

Hmmmmmmm

Halloween 2011

So, heres a recap... I ate a TWIX candy car mini. I had Mufasa take all of the candy to his students today. I dont even LIKE candy and it is a temptation. GRUNT. While he trick or treated with Emily, I played with my new sewing machine which I'll show you tomorrow. Let me just say that its SMOKIN hot, fast, and purty!
For today, here is the FAM! I so wish we all could have been together:( I need a big family photo together. H?

Jake and Shawns carving

Jamie and Shawn at the Pumkin Patch

Shawn is a transformer, that probobly cannot see! Jamie a lady bug A SWEETEST ladybug!!

Kendall is a bumble bee! Vogue Bee!

Emily a Pirate, happy pirate!

Aviana a mystical witch! Witches smile!

Ginger a hot dog:)

Heather a chicken! Bless her brave, brave heart!

Sarah is Alice in wonderland for a day! PURRRFECT!

                                                               Bears repeating! LOL

And guess who? Tis SCARY!

Kelly and kids took off to Disneyland!

My Poodle Hates Me

What happens To Poodles When My Grandkids arent Around? Poor Ginger. She is actually ticked off! You see the stink eye shes giving me? Kind of like Shoe shopping with Aviana! LOLOL  I want my grand babies here damn it!!! Come on kids! Save your favorite dog!! LOLOL

I got her some doggie cookies for trick or treat. She really isnt amused at all. I think I should get in the car and go visit kids... Poor Poo.... poor poor Poo

Click!