A Happy Ending

I am ending 2019 on a positive note.  I had another go at getting my Gracie long arm working again and, yahoo, it is fixed.  I have only done a test piece but it seems to be humming along quite nicely.  So, although it is really embarrassing, I will tell you what may have been the cause.  I did recheck timing, the pressure foot level, threading, and gave everything a good cleaning and one of those things may have helped.  However, when I checked the bobbin spring, I noticed it was not centered.  I corrected that and it is now working.  So, never overlook the minor things.  The first time I had a bad problem was when I missed the thread hole above the needle.  These  are the kind of things that are so easy to overlook.  It is rather like those word quizzes when all the vowels are removed from a sentence but you hardly notice the difference when reading it.
Tomorrow we are going to a neighbour friends for New Year's dinner.  I have made some peanut butter banana chocolate balls to take.  The one lady is gluten free as I am and her mother and my husband are both lactate sensitive so these will be good for both.
Many people have requested the UFO list document that I made and I hope you will all find it helpful and help you get started on a year of organization and accomplishment.  Any further requests, will have to be sent to my email address and I will send the doc. to you.
arkangelcreations@gmail.com.

I will be putting together another file a bit later so keep reading.  This one will help you list your goals for the year.  I am listing the ideas/projects I have for Christmas as well as the fall fair on mine.
Happy New Year to you and your family from my husband and I.  Thank you for your support and encouragement.
Blessings,

Slipping and Sliding

Our local quilt group, Burk's Falls Village Quilter's cancelled our meeting today because of the weather.  We had freezing rain and heavy winds so definitely not a day to go out if you didn't have to.  I got some more sorting done in the quilt room.  I have two drawers in my cutting table cabinet that were crammed full.  One contained fabric for dressmaking.  I put that in the tote that contains some clothing that needs finishing or altering.  The other drawer was for items that were for gift giving or to sell at craft sales.  I took everything out, sorted and divided things into piles of saleable, needs work and donate.  Saleable went back into the drawer, needs work went in the fabric drawer which also contains craft supplies.  Give away's are slated for a donation shop and the library.
And that is pretty much the last of what I have to do.  I could continue on with patterns and the stuff in the cabinet that is used for ironing but I won't-well, maybe the latter.  Tomorrow, I want to have another go at fixing the long arm and if I still don't have any luck, I will start on some of the UFO kits.  If I can, I will get started on the tops.
I have had quite a response to the free UFO List document I made.  It is available to anyone and is great for listing all the projects that need finishing.  You can send me an email:  arkangelcreations@gmail.com and I will forward or click on the link below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kOQLWKYES5klb17AJWgxJG8ydAswAfdA

Let me know what you think.  Does it work for you?
Blessings,

Getting Organized.

A new year is typically when we look at setting goals.  As quilters, those goals usually are focused on finishing projects, organizing or learning.  A quilt planner can help with some of those plans but I find that they are often more detailed than I want.
I have made a simple page that will allow you to list your UFO's and the date you finished them.  If you do want something more complicated, you can take a look at:  www.patchworkposse.com.  They have a number of free download pages.  You will be taken to a page where you order but if you put in the discount word you will get them free.  The word is on the page but if you don't see it right away, it is sampleset.  You can download and then chose which ones you want to print.


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kOQLWKYES5klb17AJWgxJG8ydAswAfdA

If you have trouble with the link let me know and I will send the file to your directly.

I am just about ready to start quilting after the Christmas season but first I am going to list all my UFO's.  I have a number of tops that need finishing as well as some kits I put together.  I find it is easy to forget what you have so I think seeing them on a list will help get them finished.
I think it is fitting at 2020 is the year I am trying to see what I have got and what I need to do.
Blessings

Christmas and Eating

I am at the 'try not to be overwhelmed' stage of pre-Christmas.  I still have not been able to get my long arm working properly so will be doing my customer quilt on the domestic machine.  I pinned the layers at quilt group today after volunteering one of the ladies to help.  It is crib size so it shouldn't take to long to finish-longer than on Gracie but certainly quicker than by hand.
We had our Christmas dinner at quilt group and it was a lovely time with 14 out of our 15 members attending.  The other lady is dealing with some serious health issues so she was very much on our thoughts.  One more get together before the big day and that is with three friends will have lunch and exchange some silly gifts and then on Sunday it is the church lunch and gift exchange.  Sure is a lot of eating at Christmas.

 Artic Wolf at Toronto Zoo

                 Grandchildren Striking a Pose.

Blessings

Grandchildren.

We had a lovely few days visiting with our grandchildren and their parents in Toronto.  I hate leaving home so it was hard to focus on the purpose of the trip rather the knowledge I was leaving home.  It is difficult saying good-bye to our dog as well as I insist on believing she has the same feelings as a human.  We are fortunate that we have a neighbour who was staying at the house to look after her and the chickens so I really did know that Heidi was in good hands.
We found the address for our hotel easily but couldn't see the building itself.  We drove around and around the block and finally stopped and phoned them.  We were in the correct place but the hotel name was high up on the building rather than at street level.  Frustrating.  However, our room was clean and comfortable so all was okay. And the kids were waiting for us.
During our stay, we went to the CN Tower, Ripley's Believe It or Not Aquarium and the Zoo as well as Kensington Market.  We walked and walked and walked.  According to my watch, I did an average of 9,000 steps a day.
Of course, being with the children was our main focus and we did spend a good bit of time in our room doing crafts and talking.
I took a ton of photos with my phone but don't have them loaded yet.  Will share them when I do.
The children's flight to the Bahamas left at 4 in the morning so we didn't see them Tues. morning.  All our good-byes had to be said the night before.  We left Toronto at 9.30 and got home 4 hours later.  We were tired, glad to be home and sad to know we wouldn't be seeing the children for another year.
Trying to get into routine and count our blessings for the few days we did have,
Blessings,

Three More Sleeps

I have been feeling a bit overwhelmed today.  There isn't a lot of things to do before we leave for our mini holiday but just enough that my mind keeps running over it.  I have decided to leave the decorating until I get and not worry about getting the sewing machine working either.  My mind is more focused on dear friends who are having a rough time with ill health and other concerns right now.
I did finally get the guest room cleaned up.  Oh, the stuff that had been tossed in there....I now have a new quilt on the bed and all is ready for any guest that might wander by.  I made some chocolate drop cookies to take with us for the grandchildren and want to make something for myself.  The hotel breakfast does not extend to gluten free so I will take my own stuff.  I always take a large bottle of water when I travel as non well water upsets my stomach.  Our tablets will be going so we can keep in touch with everyone and at least one book.  We will have time after the evening meal to relax and unwind.  Our grandparental aging bodies will have to have time to recover each day after walking  everywhere (which I really enjoy).
Tomorrow have a bit of shopping to do to make sure our house and critter sitter has lots to eat.  A few snacks may make there way into the luggage as well.
Three more sleeps.
Blessings,

Pugged Out

Thank you Farm Quilter for your suggestion regarding my machine problems.  I got in touch with the company today and they agree that I probably didn't adjust the timing correctly.  However, I am also going to do your suggestion of cleaning the encoder wheel(s) with rubbing alcohol as it is a good idea.

I imagine most people would guess that when a quilter goes to a quilt group that they quilt.  While that might be true generally, there are other times when it isn't.  I have mentioned our local group, The Burk's Falls Village Quilters previously and what a genuinely fun and caring group they are.  Last week something happened that emphasised that belief.  Many of us, in addition to loving fabric, are also very fond of dogs.  One lady in particular has two pugs that she calls her 'girls'.  Because they are such funny and personable dogs, we are always giving her pug related little gifts.  Our small tokens are forever overshadowed, though,  by what one member did last Monday.

When this woman sashayed-literally, into the room in this pug outfit we all broke out in screams of laughter.  What made it even more special is that this crazy lady, who is always coming up with something fun, had been in a very severe traffic accident a number of years ago.  Her recovery was slow with many set backs.  To see her back to her old self was as big a delight as her crazy stunt.

Our quilting group is, indeed, a bit nutty and a lot of fun.  They are also very talented quilters.  Who could ask for more.

Blessings,

Stitching Woes

Yesterday was frustrating.  I skipped an event so I could stay home and finish the quilt that is on the frame but my machine quit working.  I went over everything possible to solve the problem including rechecking the timing, cleaning, changing needle, tension, threading  etc. at least once without improvement.  I have looked at numerous videos without coming up with anything more than I have already done.  It sews about an inch and then skips.
I am going to watch another video on timing and if it still doesn't work, I will call the Grace Co.  Their tech service is very good so I am sure they will be able to suggest something.
In the meantime, I will finish another top and make some fleece toques.
Today, I got together with 3 friends for a day of quilting.  It is always such fun and helps all of us laugh our way out of life's stresses.  I didn't feel like hauling my machine and all the other stuff so I took some hand quilting.  I just have the border to do on that topper.  It is an order from a customer  who, fortunately, is very patient.
Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers.
Blessings,

Two More Done

We have been having warmer than expected temperatures the past few days so it has taken discipline to stay inside and sew.  I have gone for my usual walk but have made that my limit.  I have been getting projects finished although am still behind on one.
I also gave a neighbour friend a lesson in driving a standard.  She will be looking after the house while we are away seeing the grandchildren so I thought it would be good if she was able to drive my car.  She did very well today so I am sure after a few more she will be ready to zip around on her own.
Here are a couple of photos of my most recent accomplishments.  The seascape was a commission and the other is for an art sale

I have another quilt that has to get done but, of course, my machine has chosen now to act up.  So, I had better get at it.  Hope to have another photo tomorrow.

Blessings,

Car Fixed

Yesterday, I realized to my horror, that it was Thursday and I hadn't posted all week.  I did get a lot of other things accomplished though.  My car is finally back on the road. My mechanic friend started working on it Tuesday and, every time he thought it was fixed, he found another leak.  There were, if I am remembering correctly, four of them right from one end of the fuel line to the other.  All is fine now except there is still a strut to be replaced.  It can wait for a bit.  Tomorrow I have to go to the bank and I will be able to drive my own little red.
I have finished 2 baby quilts, done the top on another as well as one wall-hanging.  In the evening I have been hand sewing the binding on another quilt, this one full sized.  I also finished my magazine article before it was due and managed to do a bit of baking as well as keeping up with housework.
It must have been the milder weather that gave me energy or the moaning I did last week about not being able to quilt as much as I needed.
I got some encouraging comments and advise from that article which made me feel both better and worse.  Better because people cared and worse because I was largely responsible for my own problem.  I am trying to lessen the time I spend on the computer before I start quilting.  I can catch up a bit more at lunch and then again in the evening.  I am also going to unsubscribe from some lists as I don't read them anyway.
Will try to do a better job of posting next week.  Hope you all are well,
Blessings,

Dreaming of an Interuption Free Day.

I asked the ladies on a couple of on line groups a question today.  I wanted to know if they ever had a day in which they didn't have to do anything but quilt-no housework, answering phones, making meals, tending animals and/or children.  No having to make decisions that weren't fabric related, no dealing with appointments or finding something that really isn't lost.
I was thinking about this today as it was approaching noon and I still hadn't turned on my machine.  I am retired with a small home business that involves quilting so that should take up a good part of my day but it doesn't.  Some of my busyness is my own fault.  It takes me a long time to deal with my emails each day even after I have deleted most of them.  Most of the ones left need a response or action.  Only a small percentage are things like an on line newspaper or Bible verse.  I suppose I could deal with them at the end of the day but I don't think that would work.
When I asked the question, I expected everyone to have the same restraints but I was wrong.  One lady is married to a gem of a husband.  She works full time, he is retired.  On her days off, he makes all the meals including breakfast, brings her tea or a cold drink depending on the temperature and takes care of everything else.  Another lady goes to a number of conferences and related events and so is able to have her own time there.
All this caused me to think about how I could get even one day a week to myself.  My husband would probably like the same.  Perhaps we could each treat the other to a day off.  I will have to think about whether it would work.  I can't feed the chickens because of allergies and he won't be able to deal with some of the phone calls but other than that....
What about you?  Do you get to have a interruption free quilt day?  What did or do you do to get it?  I would love to know.
Blessings

Puttered and Frittered

I was supposed to go to Huntsville this afternoon for my last test with a specialist.  However, the highway was shut down midway because of blowing snow and an accident so I stayed home.  One would expect that I would have got a lot done with the free time but I didn't .  I diddled a bit at this and puttered at that and managed to fritter most of the day away.
I did get our hotel rooms booked for our trip to Toronto, cut and sew some border strips and write and send my newspaper column.  Not much for a whole day's work.  I had a hard time getting up this morning as I had been so busy yesterday.  Perhaps today was my recovery day.
I am hoping to get a bit more done tomorrow.  I have two small baby quilts to finish and get onto the frame.  Unless something else happens, they should be finished tomorrow.
I am also hoping that my car will be fixed this weekend.  I am really missing being able to drive it.  Hope you had a good day,
Blessings,

Christmas Toques

This weeks feels a bit off kilter.  We normally have our quilt group but with it Remembrance Day, we moved to Tuesday.  The odd thing is that I keep thinking today is Wednesday.    In any case, we had a good day at quilting with me making the binding and sewing it to my last quilt.  The fabric arrived for my customer's quilt plus the extra panel I ordered and the matching material will work for both of them.
The service yesterday was really well attended especially given that it was quite cold.  Hubby and I always lay a wreath on behalf of our church and this year we had one of the young men from church assist.  We got him to carry and present the wreath at the cenotaph which he did in a very responsible and respectful manner.  We were proud of him. I am hoping he will continue to do this each year.  I think it is important to not only tell children about past events but to get them involved in related activities.
I need to start making a few items for our mitten tree at church as well as the Art Centre's craft sale.  I will do toques for both.  There was a nice pattern sent to me by a friend.  Here it is, if you would like to give them a try yourself.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLJxtxI_S3Q
Blessings,

Lest We Forget

Finally got my car to a garage to see if the fuel leak is under the special warranty.  The closest dealer wasn't returning my calls so I tried one in Huntsville and was told to bring it in.  If it was covered, they will do the work, if not, I will bring it home and my mechanic here will do it.  I was a bit concerned about driving it so far as I wasn't sure about the fumes or if the leak was bad enough that I would run out of fuel.  Fortunately there wasn't a problem with either.
While we were there, I did a bit of shopping.
This morning (before all the kerfuffle started) I did get a bit more quilting done.  My thread broke last night so I got ready to rethread and check to see if I had any lint built.  Couldn't find the thread.  Then I realized I had used up the spool.  Did a couple more rows and that was it for the day.  Hope to finish it tomorrow or the next day.
Next week is going to be a bit odd as we moved our Monday quilting to Tuesday because of Remembrance Day.  I have never missed a service since I have been an adult.  My father was in the last war as were two uncles on my mother's side.  One was killed and another suffered a breakdown.
I am sure we all have stories of family members or friends who served in some capacity or another during war time.  Even our Queen  was in the service as a young woman.
Lest we forget.  May it never happen.
Blessings,

Dignity Quilts

It doesn't look as though we are going to get an Indian Summer this year.  (is that phrase derogatory?  Can you suggest another name-summer's last gift?)  We got another 2 to 4 inches of snow last night so our trees are powdered once more.  I put Heidi out through the night and she was almost swimming through the snow.  We have made her a path again today.

Farm Quilter described the snow fall as getting our aquifer replenished.  Love that idea.  I always thing of the moisture that is added to the maple trees in the bush when we get a big snow before the ground freezes.

I have a top about1/3 finished.  It is moving right along but I only get two or three rows done at a time before I have to take a break because it takes a fair bit of concentration.

I heard something new on one of my on line groups a couple of days ago.  I am always keeping my ears open for places where I can donate quilts and this one caught my attention.  They are called Dignity Quilts and are donated to funeral homes, senior's and hospice centres.  The purpose is to drape the quilt over a coffin or stretcher to cover the deceased as they are being removed from the place where they died.  I have  seen a stretcher carrying a body being removed from a home with neighbours standing around staring as though it were a circus.  The addition of a quilt adds dignity to the body.  In some hospitals, available staff will line halls as a body is being removed to show their respect.  Again, a quilt give extra dignity.  If you are at all interested, there is more interest on line.  Quilts designed for this purpose are 4 x 8 feet.  Something to think about.

Blessings,

Dignity Quilts

It doesn't look as though we are going to get an Indian Summer this year.  (is that phrase derogatory?  Can you suggest another name-summer's last gift?)  We got another 2 to 4 inches of snow last night so our trees are powdered once more.  I put Heidi out through the night and she was almost swimming through the snow.  We have made her a path again today.
Farm Quilter described the snow fall as getting our aquifer replenished.  Love that idea.  I always thing of the moisture that is added to the maple trees in the bush when we get a big snow before the ground freezes.
I have a top about1/3 finished.  It is moving right along but I only get two or three rows done at a time before I have to take a break because it takes a fair bit of concentration.
I heard something new on one of my on line groups a couple of days ago.  I am always keeping my ears open for places where I can donate quilts and this one caught my attention.  They are called Dignity Quilts and are donated to funeral homes, senior's and hospice centres.  The purpose is to drape the quilt over a coffin or stretcher to cover the deceased as they are being removed from the place where they died.  I have  seen a stretcher carrying a body being removed from a home with neighbours standing around staring as though it were a circus.  The addition of a quilt adds dignity to the body.  In some hospitals, available staff will line halls as a body is being removed to show their respect.  Again, a quilt give extra dignity.  If you are at all interested, there is more interest on line.  Quilts designed for this purpose are 4 x 8 feet.  Something to think about.
Blessings,

Quilting Again

The weather was really odd today.  It was almost as though I was going through as many variants as possible as often as possible.  We had rain, snow, sun, freezing rain and then it would recycle though again and again.  Tonight we are supposed to get a good bit of snow again.  Our hydro was off on Sunday from around 2 a.m.ish until 11.30.  Church was cancelled but we got together at a friends home as they had a generator.  It was a lovely time.
Of course, now that winter is here, my camera is going to spend a lot more time working.  All these photos were taken on Sunday.  The first two are our driveway and the third is the backyard.

I have, once more, got my studio somewhat organized.  In the process, I found a quilt top that I forgot as well as another one that has been around for a while.  They are draped over the machine ready to be completed.  Before I get to them, I have a Christmas panel to turn into a wall hanging.  Nice to be back at spending a good bit of my day quilting again.
Blessings,

Support Local

I feel really good about everything that I have accomplished the past two days.  I have completed everything that had a deadline.  I have the two craft sale quilts finished and am packed and ready to go for tomorrow.  I only have to make my lunch and decide what I am going to wear.
Sorry that the word quiz didn't work yesterday.  It is fixed now.
The next two things on my list is to clean the studio and the spare bedroom as well as make some marmalade.
We had a good bit of snow fall last night so everything was really pretty today.  I took Heidi dog for a walk in the bush and wished I had taken my camera.
Here are the two baby quilts.  A thank you to hubby who held them for me.

Have a great weekend and don't forget to support your local artisan.

Blessings

A Little of This, A Dash of That

I have almost finished the quilt that is on the frame.  I mentioned that I was having trouble with skipping stitches and thought it might have been the timing.  With hubby's help, I checked that and, if it was out, it was only the tiniest bit.  The adjustment didn't make any difference so I went back to looking at the tensions discs and thread guide.  I tested and cleaned everything but, again, it didn't help.  The thread was catching on something and the only place not checked was the first thread guide(the one that is right above the thread spool) and, wouldn't you know, it was gunky.  No idea how that happened but I removed it from the machine, gave it a scrubbing with an old toothbrush and some  soap and water. Had to redo the tension but everything is working properly.  You may want to file that bit of information away if you have thread problems.  No idea how the crud got in there but it had.

I love words and word quizzes.  I get a daily post about grammar and sometimes they have a little quiz.  I thought you might like to try today's.  Here is the link: http://www.softschools.com/quizzes/language_arts/spelling/quiz266.html .  Let me know how you do.  I got one wrong.
We are supposed to get a good bit of snow by tomorrow evening so will have to wait and see if it arrives.  We have the 4 snows on hubby's van so we should be okay.  I am waiting for a fuel leak to be fixed on mine and then I will get the tires done on it.
Blessings,

Timing's Off

Something more accomplished.  Both my tablet and phone are now connected to the internet.  The new router solved the problem.  Now, I have to retime my sewing machine.  I didn't have the bobbin set in properly and the needle hit it.  I hate having to do that adjustment but, if I don't, I won't be able to use the machine and I have to get those 2 quilts done by Friday's end.
It was a lovely day today.  The sunrise lit the sky a bright red and, while the sun didn't shine very brightly, it didn't rain.  Heidi and I went for a nice long walk and enjoyed the fresh air.
I have finished the updating of my customer's web site but need to alter the photo page.  Unfortunately, there must be some atmospheric interruption because my internet has slowed down and I can't upload the photo program.  I hope it will soon clear up.  I wonder if the smoke from the California fires might be cause the problem.

I got the last of my Christmas gifts sent off today and feel really good about getting that done.  I will probably still be doing things at the last moment despite my best intentions.

The photo is of the village of Burk's Falls taken from the boat dock. I like the reflection.

Blessings,

Pool Noodle Quilting

Another busy day.  Hubby and I sliced 20 lbs of apples, bagged them and got them in the freezer.  Saved a few and made applesauce for supper.  I still have a large bag of beets to turn into pickles.  I also spent a good bit of time working on trying to get the tablet connected.  Even with resetting the router, and setting up a new password, it still won't connect.  So, a new router it is.
Didn't get any quilting done today or at least up to now.  Might do a bit after posting this but also think I am going to have an early night.  I kept waking up throughout the night so am tired now.

One of the ladies on my A Scrappy Life group is great at finding new and interesting videos.  Here is one that she shared with us.  It shows how to use a pool noodle to sandwich a quilt.  Interesting idea.
https://youtu.be/EpmWfZdxGSI

Blessings,

Ahead of the Rush

The oddest thing happened yesterday.  I wrote the post and then added a photo.  Before I could do anything else , the whole page disappeared.  So, I rewrote, making sure to manually save as I was writing.  Got to the same point and the same thing happened.  Tonight, I hope to be able to actually write and publish.
Just did a check and, so far, so good.
I think I mentioned previously that I had bought a new tablet and was having problems getting it connected to my WiFi.  After talking to a very helpful man at Xplorenet,  I have come to the conclusion that I need a new router.  I have had this one for quite some time and it was probably the cheapest I could get so I guess I could expect it to wear out eventually.
I have been getting a lot of quilting done.  I sent off a customer's quilt last week and today a couple more went into the mail as gifts.

Customer Quilt.

I am now  making some crib quilts for an upcoming craft sale and would like to do 3 more for a charity.  I haven't been quite this motivated for a while but now that I am feeling so much better, I am making up for lost time.

I expect it is early but the two quilts I sent were Christmas gifts.  I am really ahead of things this year and have great hopes of sending my overseas cards off in time that my family receive them before Christmas.  We will see if my energy and enthusiasm lasts.

Blessings, 

Groups Closing

If you belong to any Yahoo groups you have probably heard that they (Yahoo) is ceasing many of the benefits such as photos, files, and even the ability to join a group (you have to be invited).  As a consequence, all the ones I belong to are shutting down.  I expect I will do the same with mine although I hate to take that step.  Hands2Hearts has provided me with a lot of support, fun and information.  Closing it down is going to be like saying good bye to a dear friend.  Most of the committed members of the group have moved over to our other one-A Scrappy Life so we will be continuing to keep in touch and share.
It seems that participation in groups is waning.  Some have moved to Facebook but I don't find that there is as much closeness in those.  And, of course, a lot of people don't like Facebook. I find that, as I get older, I am having more decisions taken away by an individual or group that decides they know best.  I understand that if they own something they have the right but I don't have to like it.
Fortunately, I am still in control of my quilting.  I loaded my granddaughter's quilt today and hope to have that finished by tomorrow.  Then I can complete the binding and get them sent off next Tues.  Cutting it a bit short but I think I can get it done.
Do you belong to a Yahoo group?  Is it closing down?  What do you think your next step will be?
Blessings,

Flashing Construction Lights-Yuk

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving.  We went to my in-laws and had a great meal, a good visit with everyone and lots of laughter.  One of the nieces was there with her family.  We have a close ties with her two young children and I spent the majority of the visit with them.  I was given a number of medical examinations, listened to stories I couldn't quite understand and played an exhausting game of 'kick the soccer ball'.  We weren't Skyping with the grandchildren until the next day so we stayed a little longer than usual.
It was dark when we started for home with hubby driving.  We switched seats about 2/3 of the way and I took over.  By then it was raining.  I have a hard time driving at night on a highway because the oncoming traffic makes it hard to see-especially when they have halogen headlights.  I was doing alright until we come to a road construction site that was marked with those orange signs with flashing orange lights.  They are so distracting that is near impossible to see where you are supposed to go.  Got through that and dear hubby had me pull over and he drove the rest of the way.  I can drive in nearly every condition-snow, traffic jams, busy roads whatever but I hate those orange lights.
Today, I got my customer's quilt sent off to its recipient.  It is a Christmas gift so it will arrive in plenty of time.  I am working on a couple of quilts for the grands which will also be sent off this month along with their other gifts so I will be ahead of the game this year-so far.
Tomorrow, off to town to replenish the food cupboard.  No matter how much you buy, you always run out of something before the month is over.
Blessings,

Really Quick and Easy Quilt Instructions

Farm Quilter:  Thanks for the comment.  I will take my camera and get a picture of those trees.  Our colours are starting to fade a bit now but it still a lovely walk/drive along our road.
I decided to make a couple of last minute cuddle quilts today.  I need to get them done quickly so I can post them a week from this coming Tues.  So, I came up with a truly fast and easy quilt.  It isn't fancy but if you are just looking for something a child can drag around and snuggle into while watching fireworks, this is it.
Decide your size.  I like 45X 60" give or take.  Look through your stash for some fabric that has a nice over all pattern.  I found one that has cows, barns and other farm animals all over it.  The figures are a nice size so it will work well.  I cut the fabric 50" X 65". I cut mine 2.50 inches smaller than that and added a border.  I wanted to back it with fleece but didn't have anything that worked with the top so I got some deep brown flannel and used it.  It was cut 3" all around larger than  the top.  I loaded the backing onto my machine horizontally, covered with batting and then the top.  I quilted using a loose meandering stitch.  When I trim, I will leave the backing an inch wider than

the top all around and use it to self bind the quilt.  The time from start to finish the quilt is only a few hours-probably not more than four.
The photo shows the idea.  Not done yet as hubby and I decided to go out for a bit but it and the second one will be done in plenty of time.  If you wanted a top with a bit more work, you could cut the fabric into 10 inch squares, sew them together with sashing between each block and row and a border around the outside.
Happy Canadian Thanksgiving to all who live in this county,
Blessings,

If a Tree Falls in the Forest....

It was another lovely autumn day today.  I had a meeting in the morning  but got home in plenty of time to go for a nice long walk on the road.  I have travelled along this road either by foot or car many times since we moved here eleven years ago and I still see new things.  Today, it was two trees with twisted trunks.  All the ones around them were straight but these two looked like corkscrews.  They were on the side of a hill which meant they might have been affected by the wind when they were saplings but the trees close to them should have been as well.  Whatever the reason for them being different, they did add a bit extra to the walk.
And, speaking of trees; while hubby and I were sitting on the deck enjoying a cup of tea, we heard a tree fall.  We looked at each other and at the same time said "well, that answers that question".  The windstorm we had a couple of days ago must have blown it askew and today it just gave up the fight to stay vertical.
I finished the Scout neck scarves today and got started on finishing the binding on the dinosaur quilt.  I am substituting hand stitching for a machine sewn herringbone stitch.  It should make it nice and secure.
Blessings,

A New Toy

I have a new tablet.  It just arrived in the mail today and now I am trying to get everything set up.  WiFi is always a problem because of the password.  I got one a slightly bit bigger than the previous device and am now downloading the manual so I can start getting familiar with all the options.
I also ordered some Aurifil thread from Sew Karen-ly Created.  I started using that brand when I was an Ambassador for Island Batik and like the way it handles.  Previously, I used King Tut, YLI and Glide but Aurifil will now be included as one of my favourites.  I use 40wt. thread as it is the same as my bobbin thread and it saves a lot of tension adjusting.  I usually prefer my thread to blend with the fabric rather than stand out so a lighter weight works well for that.
I am just finishing up the binding for a customer quilt and making some next scarves for a Scout group so am back at serious sewing.  It is good to be feeling healthy again.
Hubby, little dog and I went for a walk after supper.  The bush is especially lovely this time of year with as many brightly coloured leaves on the ground as there is on the tree.  The special fall smell was particularly evident as we walked along the trail through to my sister's property, down her

driveway and back up ours.  Got back in time for our dessert and to watch the news.
A lovely day.
Blessings,

Friends are a Blessing.

Hubby and I couldn't believe how early Thanksgiving was this year.  Today, I got together with three quilting friends and I mentioned to them that the holiday seemed earlier.  No,  I was told, it was the same as always, the second weekend in Oct.  But, my calendar said it was on the 7th not the 14th.
When I got home, I doubled checked.  Yup, the 7th.  Then I looked at the calendar in my quilt room and it said the 14th.  I guess who ever made the other calendar didn't check dates before it was printed.  I am relieved.  I have a number of things to get done before we start eating turkey.
It was nice getting together with my friends.  It seems I have been house bound for ages.  I didn't do much.  Mostly sat and talked or listened.  I was just glad to be there.
There is an extra special bond between a woman's female friends.  We really 'get' each other, are supportive, quirks are allowed, self indulgence isn't.
I am truly blessed by my friends and I hope you can say the same.




Blessings,

A Great Find

The cold I have had for nearly a week seems to be almost over and I have been able to get back doing some things.  The quilt on my frame is about a quarter finished.  It probably would be done but my thread keeps breaking.  Tomorrow I will have to check a few things and see what is causing the problem.  I have already changed the needle and checked the encoder wheels but there is still a few more areas that can cause problems.
While changing the needle I found I found  the allen wrench that loosens the little nut which hold the needle in place was starting to wear out.  The edges had begun to wear off and I couldn't get the nut tight enough. As we were going to town, it was a good time to see if I could find another.  I checked out a hardware store but they only had a set with about a million different sizes and I wasn't going to pay 15.00 for that when I only needed one.  Then we stopped at a buck twenty five store and my husband found exactly what I needed and it works perfectly.  Yay.
It was really warm today-almost 30 C but it changed on our way back home.  The sky had begun to darken as we were finishing our shopping and by the time we had travelled 30 or so kilometers, the skies open and the rained came down in a deluge.  The wipers could barely keep the windshield clear enough to see and, of course, there was so much water on the road hydroplaning was a real possibility.  Hubby slowed right down and we chugged along for a bit and then the rain slowed and stopped just as we turned off the highway. We were even able to unload the van without getting wet.

A lot of the leaves came down with the rain but I did get a few photos when we went for a walk yesterday.  My sister has a couple of beautiful birch trees on her property and they make a lovely contrast with fall colours.

Blessings,

Tablet Holders

Thank you everyone for your kind words regarding my health problems.  I wasn't feeling well at quilt group and the ladies convinced me to get back to the doctor.  I, reluctantly I admit, made an appointment for today.  I really didn't think it was of much use as he wouldn't have any results back from my test and wouldn't be able to prescribe anything until he had.  However, I did want to talk to him about a medication I was taking so, off I went.
As it turned out, it was a good move and the medication has been cancelled and am going to see if I have any improvement.  Thank you for caring and I will let you know what happens.
On the quilting front:  I have completed a couple of tablet holders for the grandchildren as well as

a customers  top, almost finished a crib sized top and a few other odds and ends.  

Our weather has been really lovely and it is a pleasure being outdoors even if the reason is doctor's appointments.

Blessings to all,

A Long Walk That was Too Long.

It has been another lovely day.  It was warm enough to go out in shirt sleeves and light pants and cool enough to be able to go for a long walk without getting over heated.  Heidi and I did go for a walk and it was longer than usual in that direction.  If you turn right from our driveway, there are a lot of hills.  It is the area I prefer because there is bush on both sides.  The opposite side is easier walk but not as scenic until you get to the lake.
Usually, when walking north, I turn around at the bottom of a steep hill.  Today, I kept going until I reached the top.  I didn't think I would make it and given how I felt when I got home, I probably shouldn't have tried.  With my current health challenges, it was rather a dumb thing to do but I did it.
I got a lot of quilting done today and am pleased with what I've accomplished.  I have a few things that need to get done and it is always gratifying to see that happen. My Gracie (Q'Nique long arm) was humming along nicely and I was quilting a design that I enjoy so I almost completed a quilt top.  Pretty good for one day.
Tomorrow I have a doctor's appointment where I am hoping to get some definitive information as to what is going on.  Your prayers of support would be appreciated.
We are  going to pick up a half dozen laying hens after wards.  I hope they start laying fairly soon after they get comfortable in our new home. Customers are waiting.
Blessings,

A Handy Guy

I finished preserving the last of my bushel of peaches today.  A sticky mess but nice to see all those freezer bags in the freezer.  I had some  syrup left over and a bunch of carrots I got on sale Wed so, I cut up four, partially cooked them and then added to the syrup.  I boiled until the syrup was almost gone and then cooled the carrots.  Threw them into a freezer bag and we will have a nice treat to add to a meal.

 Top of the dinosaur quilt Ihave been working on.  A close up of the centre is below.

Hubby spent the day putting a couple of air vents on our roof.  He said that as soon as he had made the holes, hot air came gushing out.  The vents should help prevent ice build up this winter and perhaps even keep the place cooler in the summer.  Nice being married to a handy guy.
Blessings,

1908 Sphinx

After spending an hour or so doing some research, I have found that I own a 1908 Singer Sphinx 127.  Now I have established that, I can get some parts. That research will have to wait as I am getting some quilting done.  I finished the dinosaur top and have started on a charity quilt that has been waiting on the frame for a while.
A friend brought me a 6 4 quart baskets of peaches today and I have got one processed and in the fridge.  I peeled them, made a light syrup and then scooped into freezer bags.  I haven't decided whether I am going to make jam with any.
A lady in the Burk's Falls Art and Crafts Club passed on a chili sauce recipe that uses peaches so might try that for something different.
I have a meeting in the morning and evening and grocery shopping in the afternoon so not sure if I will get much done tomorrow. A device I ordered on line arrived today and I am hoping to try it out this week.  You are supposed to be able to bind a quilt with it.  I will let you know how it works out.
Tomorrow is, of course, Sept. 11.  I don't think anyone who was alive on that dreadful day will every forget it. Like the assassination of John Kennedy, we all remember exactly where we were and what we were doing.
Blessing,

A New Old Machine

Our trees are slowly changing colour as one of my favourite seasons is sending out a gentle reminder that it is on its way. We had about a week of coolish weather-enough to light the wood stove one evening.  Once it starts to cool down I start my jam and preserve making.  On Saturday I did a couple lots of freezer jam.  I have a friend bringing a bushel of peaches back from Welland and they will be canned.  I will probably also do some peach jam. Autumn is a busy time but I enjoy it.
I am still puttering away at my dinosaur quilt.  Just two more sides for the last border and then I can get it on the frame.  I am not sure how I will quilt it yet but as it is for a young boy, it will be sturdy rather than fancy.
Today I acquired something I have been wanting for quite a while.  A friend gave me her mother's old Singer Manufacturing Company machine.  It is going to be needing quite a bit of work before I will be able to use it

The serial number is easy to read so I will be checking on line to see what info I can get regarding manual and parts.  It is going to need a good oiling and cleaning first.  I will keep you posted on its restoration.

Blessings,

Back to Normal

September has to be my favourite month.  It is, for me, the time when everything returns to normal.  That might be a strange thing for a person who is retired to say but it is true for me.  When the Labour Day weekend is over our summer residents abandon their cottages, noisy boats, atvs and fireworks and return to their permanent home.  We are now able to go to the grocery store and coffee shop without a line up.  It is nice to have these folk here to add some excitement (and dollars) to the community but it is rather like having the grandchildren for a weekend-you love them but it is nice to get back to a quiet home.
With the passing of the weekend,  the fall fair is over and I can mark that off the calendar.  I didn't do as well this year.  I usually get only a couple second prizes with all others being first.  I did get a few red ribbons but not nearly as many as in previous years.  Of course, it is my fault.  I left everything to the last minute and the articles were not as well prepared as they could have been.  Even my dressed doll which did get a first, wasn't up to my usual standard.
I have now written  a note on my calendar at the beginning of August 2020to remind myself to  start deciding what I am going to submit and get those articles together.  I am making a list now of the categories in which I usually enter and am going to start on some of them now.
The passing of August and the changing leaves remind me that Christmas isn't far away.  I have almost finished one customer quilt and have the other top about half done.  My customers are giving them as gifts so I need to get them finished in good time.
Of course, September is back to school time with all the tears and excitement that brings.  Our grandson was feeling a bit nervous this year as he is going to a different school.  We Skyped with them this evening and he and his sister both had a great day.
So, here we are at the beginning of another month with another season just around the corner.  Take time to enjoy something about each day and focus on one thing for which you are thankful. You will find your day will be filled with
Blessings.

Do You Remember?

You will have to be a certain age to remember these.  Hope they start your long weekend with a smile.

Lost Words from our childhood:

 

Mergatroyd! Do you remember that word? Would you believe the spell-checker did not recognize the word Mergatroyd? Heavens to Mergatroyd!

 

The other day a not so elderly (I say 75) lady said something to her son about driving a Jalopy; and he looked at her quizzically and said, "What the heck is a Jalopy?"

 

Well, I hope you are Hunky Dory after you read this and chuckle.

 

About a month ago, I illuminated some old expressions that have become obsolete because of the inexorable march of technology. These phrases included: Don't touch that dial, carbon copy, you sound like a broken record, and hung out to dry. Heavens to Betsy! Gee whillikers! Jumping Jehoshaphat! Holy moley!

 

We were in-like-Flynn and living the-life-of-Riley; and even a regular guy couldn't accuse us of being a knucklehead, a nincompoop or a pill. Not for all-the-tea-in-China!

 

Back in the olden days, life used to be swell, but when's the last time anything was swell? Swell has gone the way of beehives, pageboys and the D.A.

 

Oh, my aching back! Kilroy was here, but he isn't anymore.

 

Long gone: Pshaw, The milkman did it. Hey! ...it's your nickel! Don't forget to pull the chain. Knee high to a grasshopper. Well, Fiddlesticks! Going like sixty. I'll see you in the funny papers. Don't take any wooden nickels. Blow it out your shorts. Wake up and smell the roses.

 

It turns out there are more of these lost words and expressions than Carter has liver pills. This can be disturbing stuff! (Carter's Little Liver Pills are gone too!)

 

We of a certain age have been blessed to live in changeable times. For a child each new word is like a shiny toy, a toy that has no age. We at the other end of the chronological arc have the advantage of remembering there are words that once did not exist and there were words that once strutted their hour upon the earthly stage and now are heard no more, except in our collective memory. It's one of the greatest advantages of aging.

 

Leaves us to wonder where Superman will find a phone booth...

 

See ya later, alligator!

Okidoki.