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!

Finger Food Fun!

Of course no white at night, but no one said anything about LUNCHTIME! I would REALLY like to add bacon to this recipe, but I better not eh... I think it was Heather last year who got me playing with onions often.. Im not sure what it was for though?

(* note to self, play more memory games on Facebook)

Anyway, I much prefer munchies to biggo meals. Tapas. Lotsa Tapas! Since my huge tomatoe bush is spent, I have to resort to onion bruschettas. Im not crying about it! I love em! But I will sorely miss the maters this winter:(

I am pretty sure that the cheese/fat content put me over my mark on this, but at least the carbs arent too bad, and its early in the day... and I can only eat one... Justify I tell you!

 I need a treadmill.

 Side thought there.

Enjoy Dear Blog Peoples! Make these for your adult Trick Or Treaters!

 Serve with a buttery Chardonay!

Onion Crostini

2 tablespoons olive oil plus 1 tsp butter

2 sweet onions, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon packed brown sugar

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

24 slices (1/4-inch thick) French bread baguette

Olive Oil for brushing

1 package (4 oz) chèvre (goat) cheese, softened

1 package (3 oz) cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or oregano leaves

•  In a nonstick skillet, heat oil/butter over medium-high heat. Stir in onions; cook uncovered 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
•  Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in salt, brown sugar, and vinegar. Cook 30 to 35 minutes longer, stirring every 5 minutes, until onions are deep golden brown (onions will shrink during cooking). Cool.
•  Heat oven to 325°F. Place bread slices on ungreased cookie sheet; brush lightly with olive oil. Bake 6 to 9 minutes or until golden/crispy.
•  In a small bowl, combine goat cheese and cream cheese; blending until smooth; set aside.
•  Place 1 tsp caramelized onions onto each warm bread slice; top with 1 rounded tsp of cheese mixture. Sprinkle with herbs.

*Tip

Caramelized onions can be made ahead. Prepare as directed, then cover and refrigerate; allow to come to room temperature before serving. They can also be frozen. Spoon the caramelized onions into freezer zip locs*, seal, label, date and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then allow to come to room temperature before serving.

The Only Thing That Remains The Same Is Change

"Calm self-confidence is as far from conceit

as the desire to earn a decent living is remote from greed."

Morning. So Ma, as usual, is is once again correct. I contend that adaption to lifes directional changes is necessary to good mental health. They dont say " roll with it" for nothin` eh?

Whether its a new computer system to learn, a new home or partner, a lost loved one, I have learned that change is a defining force in mine and you peoples lives. PERIOD.

Now that I have made peace with this knowledge, I can more easily shift from one stage to the next. In total wonderment, I might add. Its not an easy process you know. Especially as I age::::gracefully::::

It has required from me that I learn new ways to "weave and bob" if you will, maneuver through my new life.I have figured out that even good changes are none the less stressful too! Yep... New tech toys, new friends, different living environments, etc.

I have read extensively that these kinds of changes stave off Alzheimer's and keep the mind neurologically sharp. In my case, I feel as though its learning new languages. Some even difficult languages. My tools for the job? I have a pocketful. Most importantly, optimism, involvement in life, acceptance of loss of any kind, and physical activity.  I must admit that these top tools are NOT easily used, but a must for me to thrive. I do not wish to be so rigid in the autumn of my life, that I rationalize not keeping up with the times, toys, and terminology of the current year. I hope and pray that I never feel again as if I'm losing ground. I wish to keep up with my grand babies and SHOW THEM how to use their tech toys instead of the other way around. Some might call it control... ok... I'll buy that for a dollar too.

You peoples may be wondering by now why I am discussing this over coffee today. Well... It would seem that I am constantly going through changes in the past few years and this month is no exception. I am learning the Intelliquilter System, along with a new tablet, and a half dozen other things software ( mind boggling) related. All good mind you, but change, and stress, none the less. All on the heels of trying to convince my body that Diabetes is unacceptable and must be eradicated. The nerve issues alone in my limbs are making me mental.

I may not be able to stop this train from running down the track, but I can slow it down and enjoy the journey, rather than viewing it as a wreck coming soon.

Hey.... thanks for the chit chat:) Damned good coffee!

LYG!

Hey! Lets do Missed Marvelous Monday K? Gratitude...ahhhhhh

New tech toy tools!

PS: This touched me the right way..................enjoy

Threaten Me With Heaven

Pacific International Quilt Fest Winner

Not me, but close! A friend and colleauge here in the area , along with her client took a first in the Brother Amatuer catagory for Grandmas flower basket.

 Heres a pic:)

 Congrats to June and Margaret!

This quilt has actually inspired me to finish Ma's hand embroidery and enter it in her honor next year... Maybe.......

In other news, I am doing my personal best to be on the mend. I think............The older I get, the harder it seems to KICK an illness. Also, trying to keep my blood sugar levels in check is absolutley mind wrenching! I hit highs, I hit lows, I do a little fit throwing dance upstairs with sore fingers and aching ribs daily! grunt. I will win, because I said so!

I finaly finished the DWR last evening. Its ready for its photo shoot as we speak. Next!

Sorry that I missed M & M's yesterday. I am not myself these days. I'm not even Sybil these days. Hey... speaking of that. I understand that everyone talks to themselves once in awhile, but do you peoples ever have entire conversations with yourselves? Complete with arguments? Whats wrong with me????? I just shake my head when I notice this going on. I better stop thinking and move it, move it, move it. My FITBIT misses me:)

LYG!

Sick Or Not, To Begin Again

"We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful what we pretend to be!"

It's as if I do it daily! lol( begin again that is)  Good morning. I'm off to a late but determined start.

I need to finish this DWR quick like a bunny! I am praying that the batting holds out! I had a mini crisis when my arc ruler hit the ceiling and pushed my needle bar out of alignment. Thank God Mufasa was able to fix it!

He also recovered my Big Board ironing board for me and now its HAPPY looking! I truly love it when he does studio projects for me:) I sure miss my big studio, but this little one is shaping up little by little.

I'm feeling better today and my trip seems like such a blurr to me. I certainly hope it all comes back when I recall it! Right now theres way too much on my plate to worry about it.CLIC

So....how ya been? Whats for dinner in your world? I will be making Pozole to sooth my tender throat. Come on over:)

I will try to walk again today too. Yesterday I went and I felt so dizzy and short choppy breathes... Scared me a bit! Oh and BTW, I gained weight on the trip too! DAMN IT!. I really wasnt bad? and I walked all over!! WTH??? Anyway, its 5 lbs and I begin again today to get rid of the mini sack a spuds I gained back. DAMN IT

*Mental note: I have to stop swearing like that.

My second cuppa is so good this morning. My taste buds MUST be coming back right? Are you peoples watching the Conrad Murray trial? I am once again hooked. After yesterday I am edumacated on Propofol like no other Woman is, I'm sure.While I certainly understand that MJ and his money can be quite demanding of his help, I do not understand how a DOCTOR WHO TOOK AN OATH TO FIRST DO NO HARM, could have been so wreckless with his so called "friend". Lord may I never have such a friend or doctor around me.

On that humble opinion note, I better get busy! I'll leave ya with the pictures of above chat! Have a great day!

Home From MQX West

"We are not what we know but what we are willing to learn."
Mary Catherine Bateson

I had a wonderful learning experience.

I loved seeing my friends and colleagues.

I was thrilled with so many stunning quilts.

I got SO SICK.

yep yep yep... It began with a sore throat and turned into a chest cold to beat all! pain I tell you! On my Birthday no less!!! I slept away the last 24 hours of my stay, and stayed AWAY from everyone I could. I came home to find Walt sicker than I am!

Needless to say that today he is at the doctor and I am Lysol-ing the house while trudging around with tissues up my nostrils. ( got a visual didnt ya?) I really must push on because of deadlines on quilts, just like last week with techniques to be learned! Did I learn? Dear Lord I hope so.

Okay, so...Portland. Twice now I've been and never saw the sun either trip. I would say now that the Pacific Northwest is not home for me. Nice to visit, but damn......

News from PIQF: We didnt win a ribbon:( Damn.... I'm entering Blue into the next one! I'm so not taking NO for an answer! Beautiful wins there were, including a local first entry, Junes client, Margaret. Congratulations to the two of them! I wish that I could have made it to Santa Clara, but then again, I was too sick for that one too! Next time.

So my Monday has to MOVE... Hope you have a productive one too!

LYG!

G

M & M's include:

Quilt trips! Sick or not!

New tools!!! All over!!!

Safe flights across four dang states! WTH?

That new Pandora charm:)

Stamina. grunt.

Portland, Day One, I made it!

Not with any help from airlines! Remember when I went to MQS and they lost my luggage? THIS time they nearly lost ME! I was re routed to Phoenix! WHAT?? Ahuh... Bad weather in San Francisco... AHUH... how bad could it be in SF? I finally arrived long after midnight and hailed a cab instead of the light rail. Because I'm a chicken, thats why. Forty bucks and an hour later, I fell into my room. Slept in late on my birthday, cause I could!!! I met up with June and we got our walk on......and on, and on, and on. No need for treadmill today for sure!We walked the mall here and watched ice skaters dance. I also found .....wait for it........ A Pandora dealer!!! My bff Linda slipped me a very cool birthday card and she KNEW what I would get! Wanna see?

Its two of the above looking bubbles... in honor of our impending win at PIQF Bubbling Beauty:) The swirls you see is just my safety catch, Its not easy taking a pic of your wrist with a cell phone!

Ok, So I have early classes tomorrow, so I will leave you with a few shots of Portland. I'll try to blog this week, or least pst pics right!!!

Love yer guts! G

the view from my home for the week,

MQX West Longarm Show

Mornin! I woke up excited and scatter brained! In 24 hours I'll be on my way to a weeks worth of learning and loving up my passion of machine quilting! ( OK, and my Peeps too)

I'm not so thrilled about my air travel plans. They pretty much stink, but who cares! I'm going! I get scared on turbo props, and for the life of me I dont understand why Phoenix is a layover to Portland!

GRUNT

I need an umbrella and about a dozen other things. I have to go do my laundry. Ok, and clean the house. And I cant THINK with all this hair!

LYG!

Woohoo!

Chicken and Swiss Chard

Hey!!! I been playing with food again! Watch out! This is delish! Next time I think I'll try some toasted nuts in it! On it. And red bell peppers too!
I have chicken issues. Its not a favorite. So I need to find innovative ways to prepare it. After I made rainy day chicken and dumplins, I made this. Healthier and better for me, live it approved. I love swiss chard. Ma made it all the time with just carmelized onions and garlic. Remember to wash it well and remove stems or you will have a woody taste.

•         1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup thinly sliced onions
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon  red pepper flakes
• 1 lrg bunch  Swiss chard, stems removed and thinly sliced, leaves chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 pieces cooked chicken, cut up. ( I stole 1 thigh and 1 breast from my soup)
• Sprinkle of Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add red pepper flakes; stir 1 minute. Add chard stems; sauté for about 3 minutes. Add leaves and cook, tossing often, until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes, maybe less. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Add butter; toss until melted.  Add  chicken bites and Season to taste with salt and pepper.

*Paws ~N~ Claws are pretty! Trips almost here!!

On The Move

“And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.”

  Abraham Lincoln

And passion literally defines us right??? RIGHT!

Mornin:) I'm so late. I slept in. I think I may have had way too much FUN at Stitch N Bitch last night...lol. I am working on the fourth Double wedding ring for a woman with 5 kids. ( one to go!) In the past years i have done these mostly the same. King sized and very pretty. What a touching gift when all these kids are married off eh?  The trouble is that its a custom. Long and arduous journey. No IQ on board due to lack of confidence with it, and also it would mess with her kid plan.

I have nerve test results today... stay tuned:)

I am sipping and creating a list to beat all lists this morning. I leave on Monday for my classes and wow do I have much to do to make ready for that! I am in hopes that it includes a much needed manicure. It doesn't look promising for a haircut... I will go El Naturellll. We shall call it Central coastal curls. Yeh, lets run with that. I made soup last night. The Italian sausage soup. Today I will concur chicken and dumplins. Leaving easy fix meals for Mufasa. I'm trying to figure out how to stay on task for my weight loss while I'm gone. A bit frightened about that one! Hmmmm tread mill or Hot tub....hmmmmm

I wonder if there are any Pandora stores there? I could use a new charm for the upcoming PIQF quilt wins! ( positive thinking). Hey, I better run... Two cups doesnt seem like enough today. Have a great day! And like Jamie always said...." I'll see ya when I see ya!"... Lord I miss that.

G

Moneyball! Go "A's"

The main thing is to care. Care very hard, even if it is only a game you are playing."
– Billie Jean King

Its all about passion eh? Good morning:) I'm not awake, but I'm moving. Kinda.It's raining. grunt. WHY??? I just cant believe its started already. I'll make soup and it will all be good. Maybe the Italian Sausage soup? Hmmmm

Do you peoples know how much I like to go to the movies? Yep yep yep, I do. This week we had the fun of a baseball game in comfort! Moneyball didn't disappoint. I have always had a love /hate relationship with the A's. I cheer them on only to watch my favorite players to be traded up for more money. Then I have to BOO them on other teams. Not good. Anyway, I still have pendant after patches stashed for the quilt to beat all quilts. UFO am I! I wont say that the movie was great, but it was entertaining. It told a true story that I was actually privy to. I got a kick out of the economics geek more so that Brad Pitt! Its sad that its all about the money in the game. Its hopeful to see that its all about ones own passions as well. Moneyball gave me warm fuzzies and a real craving to go to a real game. A real "A's" game! I think next up is Happy Feet 2!!!

7:00 am... gotta move it! LYG!

G

WW

"Laughter is the closest distance between two people."

And Holding.............. Good morning:) Its a tell all Tuesday isnt it? Grunt. Ok, let me guzzle this coffee real quick like a bunny first. BRB

Whats it been now a month? Five weeks? I forget.(menopause happens) I still have no dang results from the nerve testing. That ticks me off as my feet and hands seem to be worsening. My energy levels have gone up however! I do not SEE a differance anywhere having lost the first ten pounds, but I do "feel" it. I'll take it. Yeh Buddy, I'll take it! Ten pound loss to date.

NO White At Night

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1573222917/qid=1090626030/sr=1

 I'll say here and now that i am advocating this little, simple sensible book to anyone and everyone. I pray everyday that I continue. I do not feel hungry, nor deprived. I do WANT white at night, but I summon up all that i posess in will power ( which isnt much) and I dont cook it.

Why?

I love the feeling of "hope" for the future. It has seriously become my new normal... ... New book... Waiting for normal...lol

 My little FitBit Buddy is a great motivator all by itself. I find myself being held accountable to my computer stats! lol I have been amazed at its tracking abilities, and it has helped me greatly to "KNOW" where I am screwing up in food intake. ( searching for 40/30/30)

Last but not least FOR SURE, is my BFF linda, affecionatley known as the punisher, makes me GO when I would rather not, and is a great "pacer" As I would rather stroll and chat than kill myself trying to keep up with her little fast self! I used to be THAT person, so i am definetley on her heels.

Second Cuppa:   Heres the thing, just as with quilting, cooking, business, almost anything, we must have the right tools for the job at hand. Without them, our tasks are just more difficult, with less chance of success. I have the above tools, and in my opinion, the RIGHT tools for the job. Today.... I am successful. Tomorrow? Is another day, but I am hopeful.

Make it a great day!

Love yer guts!

G

Design Wall Up! ::::CHECK::::

It is good to act as if. It is even better to grow to the point where it is no longer an act."
– Charles Caleb Colton

Mornin`!Its been a long time coming, but the new design wall is up and its fabulous! It measures five foot x seven foot, with a nice wood trim with a quilt design of vining leaves travelling! Ms artsy fartsy and bob the builder spent our Sunday hard at work:) This, much like the IQ will make my work life easier and increase, read: improve production! Thanks Mufasa!
This one is made from Insulation foam, one inch thick. It was adhered by that far out nail gun of his with nail brads. Covered in marbled flannel, and trimmed out with the pretty wood. It too was nailed in with skinny brads right in the spot s as not to show.  I oil paint sticked the leaves in meadow green for a natural pop of color. I L.O.V.E. to bring the outside in!
The flannel was put on with Loctite spray adhesive, lightly, and allowed to dry. This wall is considerably smaller than the others, but it works!
Check this one off the list, and onto the next!

Happy Monday dear blog readers! i gotta move my butt right now if I Will get through this list!

M 7 M's include:

IQ Arrival!

Design wall up!

A partner in projects

Date night

A really cool birthday month, yeh!!! October!!!

Talking to Shawn and Jamie after they received their pillowcases and sleepy time books!

 Airfare to classes! ::::Phew:::

It's An IQ Official Announcment!

"If people only knew how hard I work to gain my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful at all."
– Michelangelo Buonarroti

Good morning! So I have waited this long to tell ya that Dear Gina is going digital! IQ  Yep yep yep... I am now not ONLY hand guided, but digitized too! I am still a bit deer in the headlights about it all, however I am so excited to add this to the mix! It will relieve physical ailments, increase production, and you wouldnt believe the boost in the brain to go with it!

Now... lets discuss the learning curve. OMGoodness.. I just did 8 hours of training and I feel pretty stupid trying to remember it all. So... that brings me to this... I am going to MQX West for a weeks worth of training!!! :::Happy Birthday to me::::singin:::::

Hopefully by the weeks end, I will be Proficient ( on the outside eh) on my new lil computer!

The beauty so far for me is that I can not only work better, faster... but still indulge my artful side and hand guide my custom quilts:) I am just THRILLED! ( and a bit nervous, but more thrilled, so I will concur the nerves,...)

I have a week to get my self together because I'M REALLY GOING!!! Colleagues, and teachers, and vendors, OH MY! :::::: I did not mention hot tubs, no I did not:::::Nor wine:::::

I havent been to a teaching convention since MQS 07!!! Well... I suppose life pretty much came to a screeching halt after that eh? CLIC

Ok, second cuppa... Shoot.. I have no Foodie Friday for you people! Thanks be to my BFF Linda, I'm walking much more than cooking! Last night I just threw chicken on the grill and tossed a salad! I'm a bit bored with foods, but its ok cause Im working on the weight loss. and the cirrculation, and the sugar levels... Just working on me.

I miss my kids. I wish to go see some of them, tell them the news, and love up on them for a day, then come back and stick my nose back in quilts... maybe I will go for a day.. We shall see. I missed Justin's birthday yesterday due to much training craziness here. He liked his gift, however its just not the same for Nonni.

I better move it.. I slept in and man I'm gonna pay for that one!

LYG!!



Happy Birthday Justin!

He is an officail TEENAGER!

Where did thirteen years get off to anyway? An btw, I SO DONT FEEL THIS OLD. ( today)

Happy Birthday Dear Grand Teen O mine! i am glad you liked the gift, wish I could have been there... altho it was pretty noisy when we spoke! I'm glad Mom made you Halibut too! Nonni loves you!

No White At Night

I figured out why I'm fat. The shampoo I use says, "for extra body."

I should use Dawn dish washing liquid. It says,

"Dissolves fat that is difficult to remove."

Yep

This is my arsenal to do warrior battle with this new found problem O mine. All of them are quite the YAWN, save one. No White At Night. (center) It's easy, its sensible, and its working.
The most difficult for me is getting in the 30 minute walk, and omitting the starch at dinner. I believe that if I were to follow the American Diabetic Assc diet, I would be failing. I weigh, nor measure nothing. I count nothing. I read labels, and I am mindful of what goes into my mouth.( sugar!)  That's it. I pray everyday that I keep going. I pray that it lasts. ( I'm not so good of a "closer" )
A good woman knows her limitations eh?
The good doc has 3 easy rules.
Eat 3 meals a day ( no skipping) *for me I must add in a few healthy snacks
Eat the right amount of protein at each meal.(3-4 oz)
No white at night.
Period.

Ma was right about the "white" evils...(sugar, flour, starches)
I can still have a bread or a pasta or a potato.. I just have to have them for breakfast or lunch.
The most remembered words of the doctors for me is this.
Eat like a King for breakfast,
 a Prince for lunch,
 and a Pauper for dinner.
My previous menus were just the opposite. My bad.
I learn everyday eh? I hope that I always will.
Gives a whole new meaning to Eat, Pray, Love I tell ya!
Keep me in your prayers, and thanks for the continuous encouraging emails! I need ya!
Love yer guts!
G

"When patterns are broken, new worlds emerge."– Tuli Kupferberg

MM Catch and Release Fun

Mornin`. What does this MM bring?
<---hopeful, as always.
What did you peoples do over the week end? You already know what I did! Burnt myself out on pillow cases! lol No way! Im still on them! I have a stack going now for the Womens Shelter in my area. I havent done stuff for them in about a year. Its time. I hope my Elna holds out. Its about dead! I dont know, it screams bloody murder at me and I've done everythig to fix it... escapes me. Today I have a panto and then my BIGGO Love letters from the cival War Quilt. I need a design wall for stand and stares. Altho I did find some cute stencils in my stock. 121 blocks, its going to be the sampler to end all samplers...lol
I'm sippin and shopping... I need a Nano shuffler for walking my butt all around town. Its so cool, small, and downright techy!

Linda came in with one the other day. I darn near squealed! I 'll put it on my L.I.S.T.

 For now, I best get busy... my Fitbit is telling me that I'm sitting too long! Have a marvelous Monday!
PS: I was invited to guest blog at Mom About Town! Go over and read it! And then send me a "Ya done good Buttercup"...LOL
MM Include:

 Pillow case fun
A good stash for gift giving
Gifts coming by Fed Ex to thrill me!
Guest Bloggin`!
Reccomendations from local LQS
Battle buddy to walk with
Fresh tomatoes on the vine everyday!

It's Raining Pillow Cases!

Throw Your Hands In The Air ------And Wave `Em like You Just Dont Care!

And make a bunch of pillow cases for no particular reason!

So I'm obsessed with them.. I admit it.. Its super fun, quick, and I think I'll just use them for gift wrapping! lol

Anyway, heres the directions if you peoples want to become hooked with me. Or... maybe youve moved on to postcards, hand dyes, etc... Remember when I couldnt move away from the Swarvarski crystals? Wow.. I have an addictive personality me thinks. Thank God I dont live in Vegas! Whoa!

Standard pillow cases:

Cuts are selvedge to selvedge approx 42 -44  inches

Sleeve: 9” x 42ish

Accent  2” x 42ish ( fold and press lengthwise)

Body     27” x 42ish

Lay sleeve face up

Lay body on top of that… face up

Lay accent piece on top of that raw edges on top, folded edge on bottom

When all pieces are lined up straight, Pick up end of body and fan fold it on top of all creating a tube.

Now pick up sleeve and cover all. All raw edges should be even at top. Pin, do not grab the fan fold. You should be pinning 5 layers of fabric total.

Stitch ¼ inch across top, where pinned.

Now pull the center fan fold out, keep pulling until all out. Press.

Square up getting rid of selvedges.

With wrong sides together, pin and stitch down long side and pivot and stitch across the bottom in ¼ seam. (Make sure your accent seams match up)

Poke corners after turns to have a nice square edge.

Turn pillow case right sides together and stitch again ½ “ seam on top of under seam.

Turn pillow case again.  This has created a flat fell, or French seam. (No raw edges)

* Be mindful to back tack your opening when you begin to stitch.

Great Grand gift Ideas! 

 I'm sending Shawn a little sleepytime book,and a car, inside a pillowcase! Funnily enough the car says excedrin pm     LMAO!!!!!

Favorite Prayer On My Way To Lights Out

I know I have probobly written this before but I am certain that it bears repeating from time to time, in case you're getting old and crotchety.. oh geez did I say that? mercy. Sometimes the "funk" gets me, and I need to remember my faith. My love. (S)

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.

It is a prayer of Saint Theresa who is known as the Saint of the Little Ways, meaning she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. I think it was Sandy Quilts who actually gave me its author! Must be leftover from childhood days for me eh? ( No, Im not regressing, shuddup)

Then ya add a lil G "ism" LOL

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

Eleanor Rosevelt

I think I need a kid fix. Or a new Pandora charm... something?

Carnita's Con Pico! ! MQX! Blima! Oh My!

My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry;

to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return.
-- Maya Angelou

Well said Maya:) Ditto...........

Morning! Just sat down for my second cuppa in front of my think tank and notepads. I have already been over to SLO, then to a friends, and now, I'M ON IT! I must get this roast roasted... I'm singing Happy Birthday to my BFF Blima, and TRYING to make ready for my trip to Machine Quilters Expo conferance in I think 17 days??? WOW! I dont have a thing to wear! I think I need a new piece of luggage! Too bad, bigger fish to fry eh? Lately, I have been running full throttle Mach one with my lion mane flying and I dont feel accomplished! Last evening after our power walk I had the biggest headache in my eyes that I truly thought I was having an attack of some kind. I am such a boob too... pain "handling" is not a longsuit of mine. Its still with me, albeit faint. Press on I must.

Happy Birthday to Blima

and I so wish I was tripping to Montreal too :( I love ya Blim.

Ok, foodie Friday....I'm making some Carnitas. I cant have white at night per my new book..( No White At Night)  however I found some wheat tortillas that are low in carbs with no sugar, so I'm giving them a try. ( I'll get back to ya on that one) I have also reduced fats and Now the recipe of Moms will be in my range. ( 40/30/30) We actually SHOULD have this for lunch as opposed to dinner, so I may very well keep it in the fridge til tomorrow! Drilling in my head every moment of every day is Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a shopkeeper, and dinner like a pauper. Frankly, I'm becoming quite bored with dinners, which used to be a great love. I pretty much sing while preparing dinner, wine in one hand, spoon in the other. Changes they say.... Ok... in the words of Charlie Sheen.... WINNING!

• 4 pound pork shoulder roast 
• 4 cups (or more) chicken broth 
•  1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 6-8 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 teaspoon grated orange peel
• 1/4 cup brandy
• Lime wedges

Cut off any chunks of fat from pork and reserve; leave small pieces of fat attached to pork. Combine pork, reserved fat, 3 cups broth, and next 4 ingredients in deep 12-inch skillet. (or dutch oven) Bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until pork is tender, stirring occasionally, about 2 hours, adding more (hot) broth or water by 1/4 cupfuls if necessary to keep pork partially submerged.

Uncover; boil pork mixture down until liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Stir in brandy; boil until liquid evaporates and meat browns and begins to get crisp, stirring often, about 15 minutes. Cool meat slightly. Discard any loose pieces of fat and garlic cloves. Shred meat into strips; return to skillet.

Add 2 tablespoons water to skillet. Cover and crisp pork over medium heat, stirring, about 5-10 minutes. Season with more salt, if desired. Serve with warm tortillas, squeeze of lime,Guacamole, fresh pico de gallo ( tomato salsa) OMGoodness our celebrity garden tomatoes are so good its snack worthy anytime!!!

You can also serve with sour cream, but not looking for extra fat here.....lol

Also Im skipping the chips, the beans, the rice, the margaritas...:::SIGH::::WINNING:::::I will, however make a nice salad. ( Thank God I adore veggies eh?)

(Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill, when ready, do the last skillet step.)

KIDS: Grams secret ingredient? Cumin... not fond of it..lol This Nonni prefers extra garlic:)

X Factor Premier

Did you watch it? I couldn't wait to see Simon and Paula again:) That Pop star chicky Cheryl, sure is pretty eh?
What was that Siamese character about? And they said yes? :::Shiver:::: I went to bed scratching things.. however, entertaining it was. I cant figure out how in the world they filter those thousands of people who turned out to audition! Wow, what a job!
SIDENOTE: I'm sitiing here reflecting on the show..sipping my first cuppa... HURTING from the punishing walks I'm taking daily. Everyday I SO dont want to go... but I go... I hope I go everyday. But not today. Cause I hurt. But I'm going. Grunt.
Okay I'm back.
I hurt last night too... during the show... oh jeez...did you just feel like a pooch wanting to break out into a HOWL a few times??? Mercy.
I think the commercials beat the show! I am partial to great commercials though.
I'll give it some time, but I dont think LA Reid compared to the DAWG. I see they are trying to recreate his personna eh? Still, it was good to see the dynamic dou together again:)
Today I have the nerve conduct test. I'm in hopes that someone can turn off my toes! Have a great day blog readers, I'm in the shower!

See! On a Tell All Tuesday

Quality is not cheap.

Cheap is not quality.

So.......what (good stuff) happened yesterday that  I just felt?? Two quilts were accepted to compete at PIQF in October! Woohoo! Bubbling Beauty and Oriental Bliss!

Told ya!

Other Tell all Tuesday news.............Not a drop in the bucket but I'm down a few pounds and I'm walking my lil legs off!

Just in case ya wanted to know?  I dont know if its sheer fear or the FitBit, but I'll take it! And BTW, freaking H.A.R.D.

Did you know that if you drink iced water instead of tipid, we actually burn more calories? Yep, yep , yep.. the body, once ingested, has to heat up the water, therefore keeping metabolism reved up... I didnt know this? Learn something every darn day. Now if I can just un bore myself with foods. I am craving pasta.. or a baked potato...oh! no! CLIC

What are you peoples making for Christmas gifts? I'm stumped. I am a bit obsessed with pillow cases right now, but Walt and I would like to delve into the dye world... I think Vicki should drop us some tips for beginners. (hint hint)

I know! Fit Bits All around!  LOL I do get a bit tunnelled sometimes eh? Hey, enough chit chat... I'm burnin daylight on a wool quilt and a custom breathing down my neck... gotta go! ( oh I wish I hada Go! )