Bargain Shopping.

Heidi's Christmas Photos

Evening in the Back Woods










We went to a department store that was closing down and did some shopping today. 

It was an  unplanned trip but when our Heidi's caregiver said she would like to have her for a few hours, we took the opportunity to shop.  Everything was at least 30-40% off so we were able to stock up on essentials such as soup as well as get a new kettle and toaster which we needed.
I hate to see stores closing especially when it means that employees are going to be out of work but the upside is that you can get some discount purchases.
We had a big lunch while we were out so I don't have to cook this evening.  After I get a few house chores done, I can have a relaxing evening.  I have started knitting a sweater as well as a new applique project so lots to do while watching television.
Blessings,

Time's A Fleeting

The time is getting closer for our trip to England-a week on Saturday.  I spent an hour trying to get some information from Air Canada without any luck.  They are experiencing higher than normal number of calls.  Isn't that another of those 21st century phrases that are great indication of poor customer service?
I have started to pack.  I never know what to take for clothes.  Doesn't matter if I am going overnight or for an extended stay in another country. And, of course, you never know what the weather will be so you have to allow for various conditions and temperatures.
I finally finished my maple leaf quilt and added the label.  I wanted to do something extra in one corner and just couldn't decide.  Finally appliqued a heart with a name and date embroidered on it. sometimes it is the little extra details that take the longest.
Tomorrow we are taking our wee dog to her caregivers for a pre- visit.  If Irene hasn't seen her for a bit, she likes to have Heidi over for a few hours so she (Heidi) can see that we do return. Irene is an absolute God send.  I hated leaving Heidi at a kennel because she would just bark until she lost her voice.  Most of the other dogs were so much bigger than her so she couldn't be left to play with them which meant she was crated the whole time except for walks.  Not much fun for an energetic little dog.  Irene takes her for an hour walk twice a day and Heidi gets the individual care that she is used to.  Still hate leaving her but I know she will be well looked after.
Sun just came out.  Hurray!
Blessings,

Christmas Photos and Lists

All the snow if gone from the back woods.  We are back to dead leaves and dead appearing trees, however, I do see a few snowflakes fluttering down so perhaps the ground will soon, once more, be white.  It is always a bit dreary when the weather can't make up its mind as to what season it is.
I must admit that, although I love the snow, I won't be too disappointed if it stays warm enough to hold it off until our flight leaves.  After all this preparation, I don't want to be sitting in an airport waiting for the weather to clear.
Yesterday, we got our photos taken for the family calendar.  Our niece is a photographer and she puts together a calendar for her grandparents using pictures of family members.  Our Heidi is going to be included this year and got to do a little posing on her own.
Jayme was good enough to take a few snaps of me so I can use one for my book etc.
I have made a list of things I need to get done today and so far I am making good time.  I am going out after lunch for a hair cut and some 'in town' things and then need to get at the magazine article that needs to be in before we leave.
Hope your personal 'to do' list isn't very long.  Try to find a few minutes here and there to remember why we are doing all this.
Blessings

Internet Blues.

Just a quick note to let you know I am still alive and busy.  I have to go out today and likely won't be back until late so I thought I would just write a bit now.
On Saturday, we had our Christmas parade in the village with a record number of floats.  Friday night was the annual lighting of the tree, so our season has now officially started.
I have been having a lot of problem with my Internet service again.  If you live in a rural area and are considering getting the turbo stick (that operates on cell phone waves) do not do it.  It is the most frustrating system I have ever had.  Bell doesn't seem to offer any solution-reduced rates, booster so I just keep phoning and complaining.  My contract doesn't finish until next September.  I haven't called yet to see if I can cancel because they aren't living up to their terms but will look at that after Christmas.
We won't up to 12 degree weather this morning.  Our snow is gone and none is forecast for the next while.  If it stays like this, everything is going to start blooming again.
the lack of Internet and busyness has made it difficult getting the last bit of the book done but I am hoping for this weekend.
Will keep you posted.
Blessings,

Who Let the Dog Out

I just got back from going for a walk with the dog.  I have a choice of three routes I can take and I try to alternate them as each has a different terrain.  If I follow the trail through our property, I have to walk slower because there are a lot of things that could cause me to trip.  Using this route, I believe, helps my balance.  If I go north on the road there are a lot of hills, whereas to the south it is easier so I go further and include a bit of running.
I haven't done the latter route for a while because I have been trying to build up my stamina but, today, that way was my choice.  It was nice to be able to walk at a good clip at least until the neighbour's dog came at us.  It is a large one but friendly so not a danger.  However, it kept dancing around Heidi and she kept trying to avoid it.  Not fun.  My repeated shouts to go home didn't make much difference but it did, eventually, go away.  Of course, we had to pass it again on the return trip.
I find it very annoying when people don't keep their dogs under control.  Obviously, this one was outside on its own.  It could have been hit by a vehicle.  I know the owner and he is a responsible person, a retired police officer, but has a blind spot as to his dog.
I always carry my cane with me in case there is a need to ward off something wild and waving it around often deters the tamer animals.  If necessary I could take a poke at a annoying dog but I hate to do it.  It isn't the dog that is at fault.
I shall probably have to avoid going in that direction although I shouldn't have to make the choice.  Life, no matter where you live, is never without problems.
Blessings,

Book Cover

SCRAPPY QUILTS AND MORE

                                    FROM

 THE BACK WOODS QUILTER

 

 

 

8 Detailed Projects plus Recipes and Stories from

Anna Branch, the Back Woods Quilter

 

 

The book is now off to be proofread.  I am, despite illness and holiday preperations, on schedule.  It will be available as a download, payable through paypal.  You don't need to have an account with them to purchase the book.  I will make provisions for those who prefer to have it mailed because of internet speed.

Now I am going to try and not think about it for a bit and get some other work done.

Blessings,

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trials and Triumphs

Just a few more days and we will be in the last month of the year.  It hardly seems possible that another year is about to slip into history.
How has 2012 been for you?  Did you reach some goals?  Celebrate a milestone?  I am sure some of you have gone through some difficult times and are glad to see the end of the year.  Others know their problem will continue on for some time.
Like you, we have had challenges and victories.  My husband's youngest sister was diagnosed with and then defeated cancer.  We have a friend who is, with faith and courage, continuing to fight the same disease.  Another friend has had to deal with a devastating family situation but, she too, continues to trust in God and know she will have the strength needed to keep going.
We also have had some family problems and don't see any immediate solutions but we continue to experience many blessings. 
My book completion is on schedule and should be ready within a week.  We both still enjoy good health and never a day goes past when we don't give thanks for living in such a wonderful place.  In a few weeks, we will be celebrating Christmas with my family.  This is the first time I have been able to do so since I was fifteen.  My Canadian brother won't be there but as he lives near by, we are able to visit often. Life is good.
Blessings,