Another Memory Quilt

 We have been (impatiently) waiting for more eggs to hatch.  Momma hen is still sitting on the nest with every indication of staying there as long as is needed.  The little one that was born a few days ago is growing and doing well.  It is amazing that a chick just out of the egg can start eating on its own.  A good arrangement because I can't imagine even the most devoted of mother would want to have that little beak latched on to them.

We are getting a wonderful array of birds in our feeders.  There are, at least, a half dozen purple finches as well as some yellow ones.  They are joined by woodpeckers, chickadees and sparrows.  We also have an aggressive squirrel trying to get its share of the seeds.  Hubby has gone shopping this morning and I have asked him to pick up a Super Soaker to see if we can discourage, without harming all future squirrels.  They can have the seeds that are on the ground.

Two bags of men's shirts were delivered on the weekend that will be used to make memory quilts for a couple of little ones who lost their grandfather way too soon.  I always consider making this type of quilt to be a privilege.  I am going to take all the shirts when I get together with some of my quilting friends tomorrow and they can help me remove the backs.

blessings,

We Have a Fluffy Addition

We have had exciting news this morning.  Every since we started raising chickens, we have been trying to get a hen to hatch some chicks.  Despite all our efforts, nothing happened until recently.  When a hen is brooding, she makes a soft cooing sound.  We had one of the Black Copper Maran's start to give every indication that she wanted to be a momma.  When hubby went out to tend the flock today, he heard a peeping sound and saw a tiny ball of feathered fluff peeking out from under her momma. These are beautiful birds that lay a dark chocolate coloured egg so we are delighted to have another generation. Chicks that are raised by their mothers become brooders which is another reason why we are so pleased.

I had my eyes tested for cataract surgery yesterday.  A long day and stressful day.  The stress came from being in a room full of people and all the noise that comes with it as staff is ushering each one to the various places they need be.  I was in and out within the time given, have my next appointment scheduled and my surgery so it was a good day if tiring. I am thankful, once again, for my dear friend and neighbour who looked in on Heidi for us.

I took Heidi for a walk this morning and now am planning on getting a lot of quilting done.

Blessings,

Time with Grandson

 Time sure got away from me this month.  Our grandson came for a week and then we were off to medical appointments.  It is the first visit for our grandson and, as we haven't seen him , other than face time, for over 3 years, we weren't sure how at ease he would feel with us.  I needn't have worried. Within a few hours, he was telling us how comfortable he felt and letting the dog in and out, putting his dishes in the dishwasher and having fun with our pets.  

We did take him to see a few things in the area but he was content to be here, play our wii game and chat.  His sister is coming in August.  She is a year older and will be staying for almost two weeks.  We are hoping this is the start of yearly visits.  Our granddaughter is turning 15 this year so she will soon be off with her friends and starting on her independence so I am glad we are going to be able to spend time with both of them.  

Of course, I haven't got much quilting done but am now back at the quilt on the frame and a memory quilt for a customer.  I am going to have to keep my feet firmly planted in my studio to get caught up.

                                                            Grandson and Heidi dog.

Blessings,

A Wonderful Neighbour.

 A wonderful phone call this morning.  We were just having breakfast when the phone rang-much earlier than normal.  Call display showed it was from our neighbour across the road. I was hoping everything was okay as I answered, and then she asked me if Heidi was outside barking.  I said yes and I was just about to get her in.  The neighbour was concerned (bless her wonderful kind heart) that I had fallen and Heidi was trying to get someone's attention as she doesn't usually hear her barking.  After thanking her profusely, I hung up and called in the dog.  The funny thing is that Heidi always barks firs thing in the morning and we are always telling her to be quiet as I find it annoying and, more importantly, I don't want her to bother the neighbours. It is nice to know that someone was concerned.

Last week, a friend came over and we made a pile of peach marmalade.  It turned out really well so we now have lots to eat and something to give as gives.  We had so much fun that we are going to do it again with baking as well as other preserves.  My kind neighbour came over to help as well and my kitchen counter has never been cleaner.  She really is a lovely woman.

Years ago, I used to get together with another friend to make pickles but haven't done that in a long time.  It is a fun way to achieve a lot.  

Hubby is busy making maple syrup-just gathering at the moment.  He will cook next week when our young grandson comes for a week from northern Alberta.  It will be his first trip here and we are looking forward to spoiling him.

Blessings,

                                               Heidi barking in a snow storm.