- Plain and Simple -

2012-01-23T11:24:00.002-05:00

H is for hexagons. Oh . . . . you knew that was coming.
It has been almost three years since I started Martha Washington's Flower Garden. Three years, four addresses, over 6,000 miles on the roads across country and back, and I don't know how many yards of thread or individual pieces in the quilt. Quite a journey.
The stated goal remains for this quilt to be on my bed this winter. With just over 24 diamonds left to be quilted and the remaining edges to be finished, this is a goal this is attainable. And I am EXCITED!
But that will not be the end of the hexagon journey. If you have been with me for a l-o-n-g time, you may remember this project.
Last shared in 2009, I began this quilt in early 2006. Not only has it traveled to all the places that Martha Washington has visited, it has been to Arizona, NYC, Europe and up and down the California coast more times than I can remember. A well traveled quilt, to be sure. I had planned on adding two more rows (14) stars. A more realistic assessment is to call it good, make the filler pieces to finish the edges and gitterdun.
Instead of being a lap quilt for my dotage, I think it will be just delightful on our dining room table.

2012-01-21T09:22:00.002-05:00

G is for German chocolate cake.
It has always been my favorite. Hubby made this one for me - from scratch, once you've had it this way the box mix just won't do.

2012-01-20T10:48:00.002-05:00

F is for Forgetful. I pulled out the BIG box of scraps last week while working on the next section of Folk Art Gathering. Now it's true that I haven't gone through that box for over a year now - well prior to our move. While I expected to be delighted at the sight of some old fabric friends, I did not expect to find this:
A nearly complete little quilt top. A design by Cheri offered on her blog during the holidays in 2010. It lacks only the embroidery embellishment (see E for Embroidery and you'll better understand.)
What I don't understand is this:
To be perfectly honest, I don't even remember making it. Though I know I must have. Everyone of the fabrics is from my stash. Another design by Cheri, it lacks only a quick wool applique on the wide black border before quilting.
These finds really brought home to me what a fog I was living in for all of 2010. I'm so thankful that the only fog in my life now is the marine layer that comes in from the coast. That's my kinda fog.

2012-01-16T10:40:00.002-05:00

E is for Embroidery -
the very first hand-crafting technique that I learned. I used to watch my grandma make 'day of the week' dishtowels and chicken scratch cross stitch aprons for sales at her church fund-raiser. The pot holder is one of the first things I stitched probably at about six years of age (causing it nearly to qualify as an antique.)
Over the years, I have taken on crewel embroidery, needlepoint, counted cross stitch - all of which have gone by the wayside in favor of quilting. Now days I usually only pull out the DMC floss and embroidery needles for embellishing quilt blocks.
The most current project (Folk Art Gathering) has a lot of that embellishment. What I have learned is to do those stitches as I go along rather than saving them to the end, when I am VERY likely to just not do them at all.

2012-01-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

D is for Disneyland as in: I'm Going To Disneyland!
For sure I will rub Pluto's nose for good luck . . . I always do.

2012-01-09T17:15:00.004-05:00

C is for Christmas. First up - Christmas past, the one that just passed.
For several months, I teased pictures of the progress of this quilt. It has been pieced, quilted, bound and even labeled for some time. And on Christmas morning it went to its new owner The Intended (formerly known as Boyfriend) While I don't honestly believe that he spends his free time reading my blog, I didn't want him to happen on a revealing post over The Princess' shoulder. On Christmas morning I happily gifted him the quilt and then IMMEDIATELY asked for it back so I could use it for show and tell . . . . welcome to the family!
Now for Christmas present,
which came in the form of a little package from Cathi of Shakerwood Quilts. She very sweetly sent me a kit of her hand dyed wools and one of the new Christmas designs by Cheri Payne. Want to pick up some delicious hand dyed wool of your very own? Check out Cathi's webstore.
As a bonus, when I walked into Fat Quarters Quilt Shop last week, one of the very first things my eyes landed on was a kit of the cottons for the very same design.
Now for Christmas Future,
I plan to join Cathi this month (as as many months as it takes) on Rudy Day to work on this project with a hope of having a new Christmas quilt for 2012. What a fun way to keep Christmas all year long.

2012-01-07T15:59:00.002-05:00

B is for Birthday Girl.
Daisy is celebrating being 2 today! We are about to head out on a trip to the pet store but not before she enjoys a gnaw on a favorite treat in the backyard.
What difference two years makes.
She was such a tiny little poop when she first came home.
B is also for Binding.
This morning I put the last stitches in the binding of 12 Days of Christmas block of the day project from Temecula Quilt Co. It was a fun project that was easy to keep up with and provided the first finish of the new year. If you haven't started, it's not too late. All of the instructions are on their blog.

2012-01-06T10:45:00.002-05:00

A is for Applique.
With some record setting warm temperatures for January this week, I decided to unearth my long neglected Folk Art Gathering project and head outside to stitch. I am very close to finishing Block 2. Let's keep fingers crossed that it doesn't take so long to finish Block 3!

2011-12-31T17:38:00.002-05:00

The last week of 2011 was filled with firsts - and what a wonderful way that is to close out the year! Really it wasn't until mid-week that it began, that is when Hubby and I drove up to Los Angeles to Staples Center for a concert.
But before you even think about entering the arena there are a lot of things to see. There are several statues dedicated to Los Angeles sporting icons, but my favorite is this
tribute to Chick Hearn, the voice of the Los Angeles Lakers on radio and television as well as the host of Bowling For Dollars. Like Vin Scully, if you grew up around these parts it's difficult if not impossible to think of local sports without bringing their voices to mind.
Soon enough we were seated inside and ready and eager for the concert to begin.
Bob Seger! His music is so much a part of our lives - Hubby and I had our first dance to one of his songs. I still have my 8-track of Night Moves, the music is that important to me. The show was terrific and I feel so very lucky to have had the opportunity. It seems that this is to be the last tour which started earlier in the year and is coming to a close. He played Boston on the day I left Massachusetts and I feared I may have missed my chance.
On Thursday, I had my first pierogi from one of the many food trucks that are making an impact on the local food scene.
And yes, that was the first food I had from a food truck having never dared to try anything from the 'roach coaches' that used to roam around. Loved it, though I don't know that I will make it a regular lunch date, I prefer to sit at a table rather than hang over the tail gate of our pickup.
In another first, I have taken on my first Block of the Day.
It's from Temecula Quilt Co. and called 12 Days of Christmas. I have learned that BOM's are not really my forte, I get behind and/or lose interest long before they are complete. I waited all the way until Day 6 before I decided to give it a go. If you haven't started, it's not too late - it only took a couple of hours to catch up. It was far more difficult to select fabrics than it was to actually construct the blocks.
So that is how I am saying goodbye to 2011. I hope to NEVER have three addresses in one year again. I'm glad to be settling back into a comfortable stride in the place that I hope to always call HOME. I am hoping for nothing but the best in life in 2012 . . . and I'm hoping that for you and yours, too.
We are off to a good start -
Come next December, there will be 'J'oy in Christmas once again!

2011-12-26T12:00:00.002-05:00

Do I sound a little funny to you? It's because I have been biting my tongue for a week now trying to keep a secret. Boyfriend came by last Sunday for a little chat . . .
and on Christmas morning he popped the question. Here they are - The Happy Couple.
She's almost as sparkly as the ring.

2011-12-24T16:03:00.002-05:00

Well, Irving Berlin - I dreamed of a white Christmas . . . . and that dream came true. But when push comes to shove, this California girl prefers this -
as her winter wonderland!
No matter the weather or how and where you celebrate, I wish you all the very merriest Christmas!

2011-12-19T17:24:00.002-05:00

The last shopping weekend before Christmas has passed. I can happily and proudly say that I didn't get out into the hustle and bustle. It's the least I can do to help alleviate traffic and mall over crowding while still maintaining my own sanity.
Instead I stayed at home, enjoyed my own decked halls and did a little entertaining - family style. We hosted my brother and his wife on the southern most portion of their holiday tour. They began their travels in mid-November, leaving their home in Alaska to visit with friends and family all up and down the west coast before returning home in the new year.
It was nice to catch up on each others lives and reminisce a little, too. We looked at some old slides and watched some favorite Christmas movies.
But the highlight was when we all tried our hand with decorating gingerbread houses.
Intended to be an activity - not a contest (you don't know how many times I said that over the course of the afternoon) the only rule was that you could only decorate with what came in the kit. Oh there were some initial grumblings over that, but I think that everyone overcame the challenge quite nicely.
A closer look at each entry -
The Princess and The Boyfriend were very creative in turning their gingerbread men into a Santa and a snow angel in the yard. Kudos also for usage of the coconut as smoke from their chimney.
Brother and Sister-in-law did a great job bringing their Alaskan roots to their house. Clever piping turned their house into a log cabin. And they creatively carved the parts of their tree into a moose rack, a bear (which really looks more like a wiener dog to me) and a chimney with some rather frightening frames emanating from it.
As for the home team, we didn't stray that far outside of the box - but we had a great time. The Relatives are on their way to their next destination. We are nesting just a little more, making plans for dinner at The Princess' later in the week and a big get together with The Boyfriend's extended family all before the 'main event'. Time for me to make like Santa Claus, make my list (grocery list, that is) and check it twice. There's still a lot yet to do.

2011-12-15T14:18:00.002-05:00

At this VERY busy and hectic time of year it is quite easy to become overwhelmed and maybe wound a little too tight. Christmas music is lovely but sometimes it can start to become a little repetitive. May I suggest Wing.

It is humanly impossible to not gather joy from a listen . . . and yes, I do own two of her cd's.
Your Welcome!

2011-12-14T10:36:00.003-05:00

I often say that I LOVE everything about Christmas, but that isn't exactly the whole truth. There are a couple of things that are not tops on my list. One of those things is gift wrapping. I come by it naturally. My mom never enjoyed the task and I have taken up the torch. I wish I was one of those folks who could artfully wrap a gift with all the seams making the pattern match and decorate the finished package with all sorts of darling little bits of sparkle and fluff that make the recipient smile before they find out what is hidden inside.
I have come into my own wrapping style. Enter brown craft paper. I purchased a HUGE roll a few years back. I wrap with it for all occasions using raffia for trim. Like me, it is plain and simple.
So why aren't those gifts under the tree? Well that brings me to the second thing that I don't care for at Christmas. I don't like to rearrange furniture to accommodate the tree. Can't tell you the origins of this quirk, it is just one of those things.
So this year, the tree landed next to the dining room table. It's a nice spot. It looks festive. We enjoy the lights every evening while we are watching tv. But the gifts would be difficult to get to come Christmas morning. So I'm testing out keeping them in that green box near the fireplace. With more wrapping yet to go, I could find myself with a serious overflow situation. Stay tuned.

2011-12-08T19:29:00.002-05:00

Casualties of moving.
Some of the most mysterious things have gone 'missing' in the moves across country and back again. One item that never completed the trip east was a kitchen scale that I used for baking. I know that it was not packed in a box alone, so I can only surmise that it was in the bottom of a box, was never unpacked and ended up in the trash - an accidental victim of unpacking haste.
The latest, though, is a true mystery. A missing Christmas ornament, part of a set. See those blocks? Now look a little more closely . . .
They used to spell out 'Christmas Joy'. 'J' didn't make the journey back to California. How can that be? All the decorations were packed and put away before the move was on the schedule. I don't understand. But I have decided to deal with it as best as I possibly can. So instead of Christmas Joy, the blocks now proclaim Christmas, Yo! As sort of a hip-hop-howdy-do.
On the quilting front, I finished quilting a gift today. I will only share the rolled up quilt on the frame until after the holiday . . . just in case. One binding and two labels and my holiday quilting will be done. The same cannot be said for gift wrapping.

2011-12-07T12:38:00.003-05:00

Decking the halls - a job I was dreading when there was just a big pile of storage containers piled in the hallway. Now I have just a couple of quilts that need to find a nice place for display.
Several views from the stairs.
And a peek around a few corners.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
And to keep this blog at least sort of about quilting, an accountability update.
I have 52/97-ish of the hexagons quilted. Translation: 52 diamonds are quilted, one complete side is finished and two other edges are partially done. I always seem to set my goals a little higher than I actually achieve. That's okay. I'm happy there is progress.

2011-12-05T11:02:00.002-05:00

Saturday we decided it was time to take some pictures in hopes of capturing that 'gem' destined to become this year's Christmas Card. These are but a handful of the rejects.

We changed locations several times, gave up on the props and ultimately just stopping trying to pose and had some fun on the beach.

2011-12-01T11:58:00.001-05:00

It's like an E-Ticket.
wheeeeee............

2011-11-26T11:27:00.002-05:00

Don't hate the messenger. A quick look at the calendar will tell you today is November 26. In less than one month it will all be over.
And we still need to figure out a place to display all of this! No time for blogging. There is work to be done!

2011-11-22T12:25:00.002-05:00

Lots of interest in the cabin air filter caused me to find this video.

Hope it helps.

2011-11-22T10:46:00.002-05:00

It's time for a quilt space update. Over the weekend, Hubby and I put up a couple of shelves to hold fabric.
Which led to a clearing of the counter-top earmarked to become the future cutting station.
Next up will be to remove the small desk at the sliding glass door.
I will do all my piecing on the table in the foreground. I love this table for many reasons not the least of which is that it is oddly low which puts it a the perfect height for sewing. Now I'm just waiting for a couple of replacement parts to the big frame that didn't survive the moves. Then I'll be in business. Love it when a plan comes together.
In my last post, I shared the cleaning of the duct work in our home.
This time, Hubby shares the need to replace the cabin filters in your cars. He does this on a regular schedule. Clearly you don't want to put it off - that filter on the left is just *GROSS*
Today will have me out putting the finishing touches on the Thanksgiving meal shopping. I then plan to not leave the house again until sometime Saturday or beyond. As a matter of pure stubbornness, I don't want to purchase so much as a stick of gum on Friday. The hype just makes me weary.
The goal should be easy to achieve. What with my delicious quilting space, I think I can find plenty to do right here at home.

2011-11-16T10:53:00.003-05:00

We are getting closer and closer all of the time. Closer to what? To putting all the finishing touches on the quilting space. Over the weekend, I helped Hubby assemble the quilt frame and get it placed in what is to be its new home.
The machine has been dropped off for servicing. After more than a year packed away in a box, it seemed like the best idea. So what's next?
Installing some shelving for store fabrics. We have some more of the reclaimed boards we used for the living room shelving. I am excited to see it all come together.There has been some sewing. I have been happily stitching blocks. But shame on me for not finishing up something (anything) that has been waiting undone. Quilter's ADD, I suppose.
Of course, I am still working on those hexagons. They were easy to pick up and move to another room while this
was going on yesterday. We had our duct work cleaned and the furnace serviced in anticipation of a few chilly mornings over the next couple of months.
Also preparations for Thanksgiving have begun in earnest.
I baked bread that is destined to become the stuffing for our turkey. We always use the canned cranberry sauce. Just can't resist that jellied mass of slippery, sliced sweetness. It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without it.
But making cranberry sauce is fun and easy, too. I picked up a bag of fresh berries and a GIANT jalapeno at the market yesterday. I'm going to try out making a spicy sauce to enjoy with chicken this week. I think it will be good and I won't have to worry that The Princess would be disappointed to find no jellied slices on our holiday table.

2011-11-11T09:56:00.002-05:00

With gratitude, today we honor all of those who have served our country proudly.
And from me, a special thanks to my two favorite veterans. This photo is from that brief moment in time when they were both on active duty. They make me very proud and I love them so.

2011-11-10T13:36:00.000-05:00

236 and going strong.

Happy Birthday United States Marine Corps.

2011-11-06T12:04:00.004-05:00

Backburner Blogger - that seems to be what I have become lately. I just couldn't seem to find any other way to get myself away from the computer other than to just shut it off. Add to that the changes to Google Reader which caused me to accidentally mark all the blogs I read as 'read' before I had done so and you can possibly start to see why it seems that I have disappeared over the last couple of weeks.
So what do I have to show for all that time?
Making progress on the quilting of A Penny Saved.
I have been putting together a quilt that I started (and have allowed to languish ) back in June.
There has been some 'unsewing' too.
I'm getting lots of stitches into the hexagon quilt.
In fact with some careful and strategic folding, I can make it look quite impressive. At this point I am just slightly over 1/3 done with the quilting.
With all of that going on, why not make plans to start something new?
Finishing quilts might be overrated.
I have been having fun in the kitchen, too. Hubby and I tried our hand at making taffy. No photos as the results were not as pleasing as we would have hoped - not to mention sore arms and blistered fingers from pulling. But we learned some things and will try again.
I've tried some new recipes from a suggested blog that turned out quite tasty. Made a favorite soup to warm us up on a rainy day.
And with the extra hour served up by the return to standard time this morning,
I baked some scones for our breakfast.
Time to lace up my walking shoes and hit the streets with Daisy for our walk.

2011-10-23T11:55:00.002-04:00

Hubby and I signed up for a Haunted Gingerbread House workshop yesterday. Thinking that it was mostly designed as a parent/child activity, we figured,between the two of us, we might possess the necessary skills. And while that was true - we along with one mother/daughter team were the only ones in the class to have never previously participated. So our table - Hubby and I along with the mother/daughter team - were the only ones in the workshop to not arrive armed with additional decorating supplies.
I think we made a pretty decent house.
We spent a lot of time working on the front facade and roof. By the time we made it to the back of the house, our supplies had dwindled to the bag of orange frosting.
It was a silly and fun day. Wonder what we can come up with come Christmas?

2011-10-19T15:56:00.002-04:00

Okay everybody, now it's time for a change of pace - Mickey Mouse
After what seems like f-0-r-e-v-e-r quilting on this, I decided to see what working on the edge treatment would feel like. Glad that I did. While I like the look, I'm not a fan of the technique. Now I know to keep quilting toward the edges and then finish that section. If I were to leave it all to the end, it may never get done.
My goal is to have this quilt on my bed this winter. With about 25-30% quilting done, it remains a lofty goal. But spring doesn't arrive until March 20, 2012. Winter doesn't have to mean December after all.

2011-10-13T11:09:00.001-04:00

Ladies (and Gentlemen),
We have quilting!

2011-10-12T18:48:00.001-04:00

Ta Da!
Let's just hope that it doesn't take ANOTHER 4 years to take if from top to a completed quilt.

2011-10-11T13:33:00.003-04:00

Here I am! You know it has been a long time since I posted on my blog when Hubby mentions it! And thank you to those who have sent emails of inquiry and concern as to my whereabouts and condition. I'm here, healthy, and quite happily filling the days. Daisy and I have been taking some nice walks and lots of things are getting done around the house.
You will remember those new shelves we installed.
Well, they are filling up quite nicely.
An added bonus has been that more boxes have been unpacked as well as the long avoided and dreaded project of sorting and organizing the file cabinet contents has been accomplished. Before our move east, I could put my finger on just about any important paper in just a moment's notice. Two moves later and everything was just a jumble.
In some ways it was quite a walk down memory lane with school photos of The Princess through the years (which have been saved) and all the paperwork from our military moved from Camp Lejuene to Camp Pendleton in 1986 (which has been shredded.) Any claim we might have had has long since expired for sure.
We had a birthday celebration for Boyfriend.
Party hats all around. And a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday on the kazoo - a family tradition. You know you are in when you have been 'kazoo-ed.'
There have been some gardening celebrations, too.
The volunteer tomato plant has yielded fruit. The excitement I felt in bringing in the harvest only proves once again that it is the simple things in life that make it all worthwhile.
We enjoyed this year's ArtSplash - fundraiser for art programs in local schools.
Chalk drawings, sand sculpture, and rock stacking were all being demonstrated.
Fall is in the air.
Even in soCal, we have changing leaves. Maybe not the stunning array that New England offers. But I can enjoy this tree in a neighbor's yard and I don't have to bring out the rake or think about getting a blister from taking on the chore.
Along with the arrival of fall comes the celebration of our anniversary. Thirty-two years! Hubby and I took a long weekend trip to Las Vegas. We had tickets to see Elton John's new show - The Million Dollar Piano.
We also went to see The Lion King - after an awful experience at another Disney musical production and a child incessantly kicking our seats, we swore off Disney musicals. But the adult to child ratio in Sin City is significantly lower and we took a chance. So glad we did as it was a great show and rolled the whole Elton John experience up quite nicely.
Back at home, the fall quilts have come out.
I even finished a new fall quilt.
Yes, less computer time has lead to lots of quilting time. I am dangerously close to finishing the Penny Saved top.
The same can be said for a baby quilt that needs to get in the mail soon.
I need only get the binding stitched on and down. I put Minkee on the back and I'm pleased with the result. It is SO soft. As an added bonus, at 60" wide, I didn't have to piece the back. Another of life's simple things.
So you can see, the days have been full and the blogging break unintended. It's not always easy to find a good balance - but I'm working on it.

2011-09-19T10:56:00.005-04:00

What in the world has happened? No posts for a whole week! And just when I was getting back in the grove. Well . . . there were a lot of things going on that kept me away from the computer.
First up, we finished the board and ladder project that I teased in my last post.
They have been assembled into a shelving unit. (pay no attention to the tangle of wires - they will be dealt with in a neater manner as we finish up filling up the shelves.)
When we moved in to this home, we quickly realized that we were going to need some shelving to accommodate electronics and books. At about that same time we received the Restoration Hardware catalog. I found something I liked but was not willing to pay the price. So began the search by visiting my favorite junk spots. The search paid off when we found the components to create something uniquely our own. The biggest bonus is that including the lemon oil and spray paints the total cost is about 10% of what two the RH pieces would have cost.
And that means there was a little coin left in the piggy bank to purchase a storage solution for the quilting space.
Last week was the long awaited Big Red Barn show. I have had my heart set on one of their dry sinks for years now. So with some Quilt Pals in tow, I got to the show before the official start time to ensure I would get the pieces I wanted so very badly.
Once the cabinet was hung on the wall and the dry sink was in its place, I set to work rearranging the quilting space.The space continues to be a work in progress. We returned to the architectural salvage yard over the weekend for some more of those vintage boards for shelves. The quilt frame needs to be assembled and placed. But I have changed the name from the quilting space to My Happy Place. Of course, there is the quilting space but also the kitchen is right there. There is easy access to my future garden. I can even stay on top of the laundry all without skipping a beat.
So you can see that the week was a full and busy one. Not much time for blogging or for meal prep either. I'll leave you with a fun and easy recipe idea - Deconstructed Pesto.
Cook a package of linguine according to the directions. In the meantime, chop some basil leaves and garlic cloves and place them a serving bowl. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the bowl; drizzle on some olive oil, toss and serve onto plates. At the table have a small bowl of toasted walnuts or pine nuts and a nice Parmesan cheese. Add in a green salad and you have a great fresh and easy dinner in the time it takes to boil water. Enjoy!

2011-09-12T14:20:00.004-04:00

Manic Monday? Not really, just the usual chores. Still when I started loading photos I realized this thing was just going to be all over the place. Where to start? With great news, of course.
The thimble (my favorite) that I thought was lost forever in our move reappeared today. And the crazy part is that it was right in the basket where it should have been. I have removed everything from that basket several times. So why did the thimble show up today? I dunno. I don't care. I'm just glad that we are reunited.
The reason I was going through the basket was to find a glue stick - which was not there. Maybe if I wait 6 months, it will show up? I want to glue some wool applique in place for stitching. The Quilt Pals started working on Cheri Payne's project from the current issue of Primitive Quilts and Projects.
I have opted to put the cart before the horse, as it were. I after completing the piecing, I chose to quilt, bind and coffee dye the top before the applique. I often do this with smaller applique pieces because I like having the entire piece quilted without those stitches going through the applique.
Over the weekend there were more projects around the house. Hubby moved the garbage disposal from the left to right side of the sink for me. It seems that nearly every home we've lived in it has been that way. After three months of scraping dishes on the wrong side, it seemed easier to just make the switch.
We did a little roaming around at some of my favorite junk stores. Spotted this fella at a stop light.
That is what I would call Dog Tired!
The shopping brought us two ladders.
And 42 linear feet of wood salvaged from a circa 1890's building tear down.
First everything was treated for termites, then cleaned. All the boards have been given a liberal coating of lemon oil. The ladders are due to receive a coat or two of paint. Stay tuned to see what becomes of it all.

2011-09-10T13:01:00.004-04:00

The trouble with a design floor is:
not every member of the household is a respecter of the creative process.

In fact, it could be considered tiresome.
Did you hear something outside?
Nope.

Do I smell treats?
Ho hum.
Maybe a nap is called for.
If only I had a pillow.
Wish there was a t.v. in here.
What's a puppy got to do to have a little fun around here?

2011-09-09T13:42:00.002-04:00

September 9 - California Admissions Day! On this day in 1850, California became the 31st state of the union. Did you know we have an official state anthem? Here is a recording from 1913 accompanied by images from all around our great state.

Mountains, deserts, the Pacific Ocean, lakes, rivers, streams, cities and towns - big and small, California has it all. I remember learning in elementary school that if California were to become a country of its own, we would have only to import nickel.
Oh there are troubles here, too. Plenty to be sure. But if there is one thing I have learned recently it is: There is no place like home!
Even if the power goes out. Late yesterday afternoon the power suddenly went out at home. I thought it was perhaps too many folks using too much power, but quickly learned that the outage was spread not only throughout San Diego county but Arizona and into Mexico as well. Seems someone over in Arizona pushed a wrong button *oopsie* which led to approximately 5 million people losing power for as many as 12 hours.
Daisy was undaunted by the event.
She kept her cool by playing in the sprinkler.
No cooking for me, tuna sandwiches made up the dinner menu. We pulled out the crank powered emergency radio to listen to the news for updates.In order to conserve batteries (we had been told we could be without power for as long as three days) I pulled out the solar powered lights that rim the backyard to fashion a lantern bouquet on the table for playing games.
As the evening wore on, it occurred to us that the sky was very clear. With little interference from street and porch lights, we set up the telescope for some star gazing. The moon was bright, but we got a good look as things we might not normally see.
It's good to know that things are getting back to normal. Things like this are a good reminder of what you should have on hand in the event of a disaster and also that modern conveniences aren't always necessary for a pleasant evening. Maybe we should take the time to turn out the lights from time to time and just enjoy the place where we are.

2011-09-06T20:06:00.003-04:00

The Labor Day weekend is now behind us. It was certainly a productive one. Hubby worked so hard to make one of his dreams come true - park our two cars in our two-car garage. He carried every single thing in the garage to the back patio (in an effort to keep garage-sale hopefuls from stopping by). He then swept and washed the garage floor before starting the process in reverse order. Many things did not return to the garage, they are at home in a spare closet, the backyard shed or destined for donation.
We still have boxes to unpack - will there ever be a time when we won't? But Hubby's dream came true. We are now parking both vehicles in the garage, but first -
a little decorating. His garage ALWAYS features a life-sized Humphrey Bogart poster. The original Bogey didn't survive the move eastward. But an exhaustive Internet search resulted in a new poster last Christmas. He happily unveiled it yesterday. Daisy was NOT amused and spent several minutes growling at the interloper.
Another project that is underway is changing out lighting. When we changed out the powder room light, we purchased the same fixtures for the baths upstairs. Out with the old -
and in with the new.
That's more like it. Next up was the dining room light. I didn't get a photo before it came down, but here it is in the donate pile.
And now our dining room fixture.
Yes, this is the third home we have installed it in. Each time we have prepared to move, we head to Home Depot and find something suitable and neutral to hang in its place before the 'For Sale' sign goes up. I would hate to leave it behind.
Also on the way out is the giant Red Sox foam finger. Youthful-Sister-In-Law brought it home as a gag souvenir from her adventure at Fenway Park. I was told I had to keep it until I lived in California again. I have fulfilled the requirement - even sending her the photo as evidence.
It is now in the donate pile, too.
So as not to leave you thinking that I rested on my laurels while Hubby slaved, I did more trim painting. I will spare you the photos as it is just more of the same. And there you have it, the Labor Day weekend was certainly a weekend of labor for us. It sure felt good!

2011-09-04T12:36:00.004-04:00

Simple things. For me it seems to often boil down to just that. Let's start at the beginning. Well maybe not the beginning, but back in time just a few months.
When we found our new home, we knew that it had not always been lived in gently. The owner we purchased from had done a lot to repair and update, but there is still work to be done. While we are up to the task, our plan is to take our time - enjoy the process.
One thing that really (REALLY) bothered me was the bread board in the kitchen. It was dirty and gooey and generally not something that I would put food on for any reason. I scrubbed; I used bleach; I used cleanser; I tried lemon juice and salt; I left it out in the sun. Still I wasn't comfortable using it. But I use a bread board a lot!
Then I had that light bulb moment and searched the Internet. And there it was.
The package arrived on Friday. We have used it at every meal since then. The kitchen feels right. It really is the simple things.

2011-09-02T14:41:00.004-04:00

I'm in a pickle or at least in a pickle mood. For a long time now, I have yearned to make pickles. The dream was to grow my own cukes and them put them up. #!@#&@&* varmints kept me from growing the bumper crop in the past. This year I didn't feel settled enough to start a garden still the dream has not yet died.
Recently I saw a post on Mennonite Girls Can Cook for No-Can Bread and Butter Pickles and I just couldn't stand it any longer. I NEEDED to make pickles. I decided to just buy the cucumbers and make a batch. That was going to be the easy part. Trying to find a one-gallon jar proved a little more difficult. Enter my local True Value Hardware store, my 'go to' one-stop shop for all things 'old-fashioned'. They did not disappoint.
Next on my list of purchases was pickling salt. Clearly suburban San Diego is not the epicenter for all things homemade as this item was a little more difficult to locate. After some online research, I learned that pickling salt is simply salt with no additives which will cause your bounty to turn an unappetizing color. While I never located 'pickling salt' I did find a nice container of sea salt that fit the no-additive requirement.
Armed with my salt and all of the cucumbers in the market, I came home ready to get to work.
I sliced those cukes and put them in the jar. They are not as tightly packed as I would have liked, but remember I bought all that I could.
Next I cooked up the pickling liquid and poured it in the jar.
Can I say that it smells just wonderful? The jar is cooling on the counter, then into the fridge it goes. I can hardly wait to give them a try.
My work was not yet done though. A few weeks ago, Hubby made a request for pickled hot peppers. Again I had to buy the peppers rather than pick from the garden, so my jar is not nearly as full as it could have been.
Still we now have a small supply of pickled peppers. Fall is coming and with it meals like black-eyed peas with buttermilk cornbread. These peppers are the perfect accompaniment.
On the quilting front, I'm happily working away on A Penny Saved.
I'm working on the fourth row of pennies. What I love most at this point is that with strategic folding, it looks like a lot more!

2011-08-30T13:02:00.002-04:00

And the resurgence continues. After painting the downstairs bathroom at the end of July, I had decided to dedicate one day per week to painting. The plan was to work on the trim throughout the downstairs. Let me just say that painting trim is the just the worst part for me and I thought that if I got that done first, I couldn't just decide it would be 'good enough' and skip over it.
But as with so many things that I try to plan and schedule, painting got pushed back. That is until yesterday.
A good part of the day was dedicated to the dread task. I have worked my way of of the 'laundry hall' as well as the hallway that leads to the stairs and made my way into the sewing space (and some natural light.) First I work on the molding up top. When I get bored of being on the step ladder, I take a break to sit on the floor and work on the base moldings. I am so looking forward to rolling color on those walls that I might even paint trim for a second day this week.
Heaven knows I have found a little more time each day since the haircut.
No more planning out time in the day to get that hair dry. *hmmmmm* Maybe I should think about a new quilt project to use that extra time.

2011-08-27T13:22:00.003-04:00

It is almost impossible to believe that 20 years have come and gone. Some days it feels like just a minute ago and others it seems like such a surreal and distant thing. On this day in 1991, my mom lost her battle with cancer after a long and valiant struggle. She fought hard, she complained little, and on that last day she left on her terms. Except for wishing she was here with us still, we couldn't have asked for anything more.
To mark the day, Hubby and I have signed up for a half-marathon that we plan to walk later in the year. We will make a donation in Mom's name to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and then hit the streets. Also I'm sending off 10" of my hair that was cut this week to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. It is all precious little, but every little bit helps for those that are still in the fight.
Miss you, Mom!

2011-08-26T11:25:00.003-04:00

My word of the month has been resurgence. First I finally shook off the last bits of the debilitating summer cold that consumed much of July. Then I pulled out a long neglected quilt project and started working on it again.
I am ready to start stitching the third row of pennies down.
It feels like a long time since I have worked on applique and I am enjoying it very much.
On my Kindle, I am currently reading Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise by Ruth Reichl. An interesting and humorous look at her time as the food critic for the New York Times. Ruth is causing me to think more about the food I'm eating and what it tastes like. Can I taste the earth in carrots? Maybe a hint of sea in scallops? I find I am making each meal a little more of an experience rather than a means to fill the hole.
Best of all, though, are the recipes tucked into the stories she shares. Last night for dinner I prepared her Spaghetti Carbonara accompanied by a tomato salad. For dessert -
Apricot Upside Down Cake!
I am still finding my way around the new kitchen. I need to rearrange some cabinets and drawers to better fit how I work there and then look out. I'm pouring through the cookbooks and stalking the farmer's markets. There's a resurgence in the kitchen as well.

2011-08-22T21:50:00.003-04:00

I am truly reaping the benefits of living in the same time zone as The Princess. Case in point - this weekend, we got to have a mother/daughter slumber party. With Hubby away, The Princess came over in the afternoon with her little ditty bag. First on the agenda was a movie that neither of us had heard of but enjoyed very much. We stopped here to pick up some sushi and noodles on the way home.
Daisy is very much 'one of the girls' and joined us while we junked out on tv and snacks - chocolates for the humans and puppy biscuits for furry one. We slept in a little on Sunday, had a nice breakfast before The Princess had to get going. Laundry waits for no one.
When Hubby arrived home in the afternoon, we watched the first episode of The Sandwich King on The Food Network. Jeff Mauro (The Sandwich King) is the latest winner of The Next Food Network Star which we had kept up all summer long. Since we had cheered for Jeff to win, we made sure to not miss his show. I think this season they really picked a winner. For the first time, we knew we would be trying the recipes right away.
Tonight's dinner Mortadella and Fig Focaccianini*.
I used a prepared fig spread that I already had on hand and provolone cheese. Delish! The greens on the plate are baked kale chips*. Another success but if you try the recipe, don't make them ahead. They lost some of their crispness in the bowl after a couple of hours.
Now that the kitchen is cleaned up, it's time to settle in for the night and take a few stitches in something.

*click links in post for recipes*

2011-08-18T13:25:00.002-04:00

One downside about moving from sea to shining sea (and back again) in under two years is having to face the disgrace that is a stash of incomplete projects. Remember I said ONE - stay tuned for future posts with a similar theme.

I have my full quilter's share of unfinished projects with a list just as long of reasons for them remaining incomplete. Those reasons run the gamut from just plain losing interest to waiting for the 'perfect' fabric for that final border. The subject of my post today has to do with lack of confidence. That's right, lack of confidence. I thought about it for a while and realized that is was never a lack of skill, I just couldn't quite figure out how to undertake the next step.
I found the first mention of this project on Oct. 19, 2007. Followed quickly with a post on October 21, 2007 and then again on October 25, 2007. I have very clear memory of stitching my fingers til they were practically numb while watching coverage of the wildfires raging in our area. I mentioned my progress again on November 5, 2007 and finally on December 12, 2007.
That's the point where I reached the end of my confidence, stuffed everything into a large paper bag and waited for the quilting elves to arrive under cover of dark and finish it for me.
I guess they never received the change of address card.
This morning I went out to the garage, rooted around in some of the yet unpacked boxes of quilting supplies and projects, and brought it once more into the light of day. Most of the pennies just required a little pressing. Others needed a shot of steam.
The magazine pages are a little rumpled and crumpled, due in part to my leafing through them again and again as well as from their 6,000 plus mile journey.
But the good news is that I have had some sort of quilting epiphany. I had been struggling with how to lay out the pennies in even rows for applique (without some sort of elaborate use of rulers - gotta keep it simple.)
I have a plan. I am ready to stitch. This quilt has been waiting a long, long time. I threw away the paper bag so there are no excuses left and no place for it to hide.

2011-08-17T16:58:00.003-04:00

Half-way through the week . . . . already! How in the world did this happen? Well for starters the weekend was a whirlwind of fun that began on Friday afternoon and lasted all the way through Monday afternoon. We had guests that arrived Friday and I planned an itinerary to keep us hoppin', starting with pizza at home with Guests, The Princess, Boyfriend, Hubby and me.
Saturday morning after leisurely breakfast and coffee, we headed out for a visit to the new (well, new to us) Legoland Aquarium.
It was educational, playful, well-laid out and definitely geared toward kids. Please notice Hubby's head inside the tank in the middle pic - so let's say geared toward kids of all sizes.
After an enjoyable lunch, we stopped by the house to give Daisy a little romp before heading to the movies to watch The Help. I usually don't care to see movies after I have read the book because I end up being disappointed, not the case this time. I hope that Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer receive multitudes of awards for their work.
Sunday began with another leisurely morning over breakfast and coffee. But the day ramped up by visiting a local street art show and sale before over to a theater performance of Ah Wilderness! The entire group of us are lovers of live theater, but Hubby and I were particularly interested in this play because of its connection with the town we lived in while in MA. While there was an opportunity to stay for a cast chat after the performance, we quickly headed home to meet up again with The Princess and Boyfriend for a backyard BBQ, a bonfire and some great photos from our guest's trip to Africa. (How wonderful to learn that you can plug a memory stick into our television and advance the pictures with the remote control . . . . like a modern day slide show!)
Come Monday morning, Hubby had to say his goodbyes early on his way to work. But the rest of us managed a leisurely morning of breakfast and coffee that lasted beyond noon, when they had to hit the road for home. Not wanting to start any big projects so late in the day, I did a minimum of straightening, played with Daisy, then put the finishing stitches in quilt bindings.
Three completed quilts! I cannot remember the last time such a thing happened around here. Sure feels good, especially that part when you pull the quilts all warm and crinkly soft from the dryer. Yum!
Speaking of yum, the Quilt Pals will be over this evening for stitchin' and chattin'. We all know that quilters require sustenance. When I couldn't think of a thing that I wanted to go out and buy for a refreshment, I decided to just make something at home. How about some Snickerdoodle Cookies.
Pre-heat oven to 400f.
In a small bowl combine 2 3/4 c flour, 2 tsp cream of tartar, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt.
Set aside.
In a mixer bowl, combine 1/2 c shortening, 1/2 c softened butter, 2 eggs and 1 1/2 c sugar
mix on medium speed until creamy.
Begin adding flour mixture to form cookie dough.
Refrigerate for one hour.
Form small balls of dough and roll each in a mixture of 2 tsp sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon.
(mix the two together unlike this photo) If you have leftover cinnamon sugar, make toast for breakfast tomorrow.
Place coated cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Remove from cookie sheets to cool.
Enjoy!
I gotta go, those Pals will be here soon and there are still more cookies to finish up.

2011-08-11T21:00:00.003-04:00

Hey - does everybody know what time it is?
It's tomato pie-time!

UPDATE
******several commenters have requested the recipe - among them are more than a few folks set at "NO-REPLY" which means that I can't send you a funny little email that lets you know to just click on the words 'tomato pie' for the link to the recipe.******

2011-08-09T16:30:00.002-04:00

Wanna know the truth? I started out the day with a bit of dread. Why? Because today's agenda began with a trip to the local base to have my military dependent identification card renewed. As a retired Marine, Hubby's identification card is issued for life. For me, I have to get a new card issued every four years and I just never look forward to it.
Because in the past this one thing can take two, three or more hours, we left with fully charged Kindles - ready for the wait. Usually Hubby will remind me of a recruiting poster that was popular at the time he joined the Marine Corps. Imagine our complete surprise and subsequent happiness at being in/id'd/out in under 30 minutes - including a new card for Hubby that does not show a social security number and a sticker for our truck! The clerks were friendly, knowledgeable and made eye contact!
The best part was not that we were able to take a reminiscing drive around the base or stop for breakfast before Hubby needed to get to work, but that the young people and their families now serving their country are being treated with dignity and respect - their time is valuable and so are they.
Now I have a whole unplanned afternoon to fill up. Back in June, I started a new project that got put away while I prepped for quilt camp and there it has stayed
until today. I added a few more blocks to the pile. It won't be long and I'll have all the blocks ready to start putting the top together.
I also got the bindings sewn on two quilts.
All ready for the hand stitching. I have a date with the Quilt Pals tomorrow evening - guess what I'll be working on?

2011-08-06T14:22:00.006-04:00

It all started innocently enough. In a recent post, I shared a butter churn that was gifted to me. Milah left a comment suggesting a wooden checkerboard as a topper. What a great idea! Faster than you can say 'quarter inch seam,' I was searching the internet for vintage checkerboards.
Before you know it, I have found an old red, white and blue quilt for sale on eBay. To my recollection, I had not seen 9 patches set in this particular way before. After zooming on the photo to look more closely at the quilting, I notice the fabrics.
Hey! I have fabrics in my stash that are very much like those used in the vintage quilt - just different colors.
This is the quilter's equivalent of a 'triple-dog-dare-ya'. Soon I was settled in at the sewing machine for a day of sewing, cutting strips, sewing 9 patches, putting rows together. By late afternoon all that was left to piece were the few border blocks that needed some cyphering.
Back at it this morning after the breakfast dishes were cleared. *ta da*
A completed top that finished at 25" square. The original has more rows and measures large enough for a full-size bed which explains the border treatment on three sides only. I hope my attention span holds long enough to get it quilted and bound.
I do have a finish to share - one of the log cabin quilts from the June Lake Quilt Camp.
On Wednesday, the Quilt Pals came over for an evening of stitching. We had a guest Pal. Dawn from Collector with a Needle joined us. I hope we didn't scare her off, 'cuz we'd love to have her come back again and join the fun.

2011-08-03T10:53:00.004-04:00

It's a fact, we are on our way. To where? To turning this house into our home. Hubby helped me put the finishing touches on the downstairs powder room last night. What began as a simple, 'Hey - let's paint the bathroom.' Turned into a redo of all other than the vanity and throne.
We pulled out the mirror that covered the entire wall.
And replaced it with a vintage mirror that came from my mom's home. Also installed a new light fixture - something a little plainer than the fixtures throughout the house.
The new mirror left room to hang other things on that wall.
A stitchery from one of Cheri Payne's books. On the adjacent wall, we hung a flower press. the counter top has a few knickknacks gathered from all around the house. Before we knew it, there was a definite birds-and-bees-theme happening.
This little birdhouse found a new home.
It fits in perfectly and makes good use of the hook in the ceiling. I have already tried a plant there, but the lack of sun makes it a pretty hostile environment.
I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. It inspired me to continue. Next up the 'laundry hall' and the quilting space.
In other decorating news, I came up with a topper for the butter churn.
Not sure this is the final, permanent solution. For now it works just dandy. The bonus: the tray was right here in the house. Love when that happens . . . and Hubby LOVES it more!
Over the weekend, I got the last stitches in the binding of the June Lake Camp Quilt. Yesterday it received a coffee bath and dried in the sun.
I love how the coffee takes the harshness out of the white and took down the brilliance of a couple of the pinks. Now it looks like one of my quilts. Those are my favorite kind.

2011-07-31T17:34:00.003-04:00

General Admission - $10
Fabric Purchases - $52
A Saturday spent with family and friends, old and new PRICELESS!

Yes, yesterday I went to the big quilt show in Long Beach, CA. The trip was rather hastily put together but couldn't have been anymore fun. Mother-In-Law sometimes works in one of the vendor's booths. I sent a text to see if she would be doing so this time. No, but she would still like to go to the show . . . . if she could catch a ride and had someone to go with her. Next thing I know Mother-In-Law and Sister-In-Law have made plans to make the 5+-hour drive (which turned into an 8 1/2 hour journey of road repair and Friday get-away traffic) to join in on some quilt show fun.
A few more texts and some emails resulted in a carload of Quilt Pals ready to take on the show. Add in a well-timed email from Dawn of Collector with a Needle and you've got yourself a day of quilt-loving fun.
I have not one single photo from the show. Truth be told, I didn't even bother with bringing a camera. As the show itself mainly consists of quilts labeled No Photography, Please, photo-ops are limited at best. That leaves more room in your bag for purchases. And what did I purchase? An assortment of different charm packs from Primitive Gatherings. Also stopped in at the Woolen Willow booth and chatted it up with the gals about their new magazine. It was just a great day all around. We got home a little weary, but looking forward to the next opportunity to go on a field trip.
But I would be a boring blogger if I left you with a photo-less post. Remember the tops from camp last month?
This is one now destined to become a pillow. It is the perfect size to cover over a pillow that's cover has seen better days. Just below the red is a sneak peak at the fabric for the back, a very nice match to the super-sized border fabric.
The pillow will live on the couch next to my quilting space. Another new addition to that space will be this butter churn.
One of the quilt pals offered it up, if I was interested. It no longer has a top or the dasher and only part of the bottom. Am I interested? Of course! I think that it will make a most delicious end table for that aforementioned couch. I just need to find something make table top.
Currently we are using this old and very crooked stool.
It is hard to tell from this photo, but that seat has quite a slant. Don't set a mug or glass that is too full or your beverage will slosh over one side. Don't feel sad for the little stool. It will find a new purpose somewhere else in the house.

2011-07-29T17:14:00.004-04:00

I'm sure you have seen this commercial.

Yesterday while on a walk with Daisy, the tune started running through my head. Then I began adding my own images. You can get with this -
or you can get with that -
*doo dah dippity*
Then I noticed that there was a distinct 'ocean' smell. I suppose it is always present, but there are just some days that it seems more prevalent than others. Next I caught a *whiff* of Coppertone and suddenly I was four years old and at Jalama Beach.
As the years went by, the aroma changed along with me. By the time I was teen, Coppertone gave way to a special blend of baby oil and cocoa butter with subtle notes from the lemon juice I applied to help lighten my hair.
Then I chuckled a little as I realized that the changes just keep happening. Now in middle age, I've turned to unscented SPF 45 sunscreen, long sleeves, a wide brimmed hat and a vitamin D supplement to compensate for my lack of sun exposure. These days my skin stays light and my hair stays dark . . . well the ones that have not turned gray anyway.
Wouldn't it be great if Yankee Candle could come up with a Coppertone and kelp candle, just for old-times sake?

2011-07-27T17:32:00.004-04:00

The Quilt Pals are coming over tonight for a little stitchin', a little chattin', and a little snackin'. So what's on the menu? Fried cereal. You can learn how make your own by watching this -

Are you back now? Wasn't that fun? Here are the five cereals that I selected.
Sadly, I burned the first batch. I blame it on the Cocoa Pebbles. For some reason they sank to the bottom of the pan and stayed there. No amount of stirring seemed to bring them to the top. After I tossed it and cleaned the pan, I began anew.
*voila* I call mine the Amiga Mix. Give it a try.

2011-07-25T09:53:00.002-04:00

Monday already? The weekend went by very quickly. Hubby and stayed busy both days working around the house. First up, of course, was finishing up those stair treads.
It's those little things that really change the place from a house to our home.
I had several requests for the name of the place where I found them. It's called Country Wares. They have a lot of fun things, not just stair treads.
The reason the search went on for so long was because I really wanted that particular pattern and color way. Why?
To match the other rugs we have.
Daisy would not have understood if we got a non-coordinating set of rugs.
Home Depot was lovin' us this weekend. First we purchased some storage cabinets for our garage. Then we picked up some cement in order to plant our first garden item.
The bottle tree. I don't believe I've shared it before, but we did have this in New England. It was only planted for a couple of months. We decided to dig it out before the ground froze 'just-in-case-we sell-the-house' which turned out to be one of the smartest things we did.
And then while Hubby was looking at something boring, I headed over to my favorite HD department.
And now I gotta get to work. I did all the cutting in yesterday and part of the trim . . . . who forgot to remind me that I hate painting trim? Time to get busy with rest plus a second coat. Then I can do the fun part - rolling the walls!

2011-07-22T18:33:00.002-04:00

*ooops* Didn't quite make it. I really thought that we would put those stair treads down after dinner last night. It was easy enough to pull up the old carpets. The double-sided carpet tapes - not so much. After dealing with only two stairs, I knew that I needed to call in reinforcement. Enter my old friend -
Murphy's Oil Soap. Not my usual floor care product, but it did cut through and loosen that nasty adhesive. A thorough cleaning with a damp cloth and vinegar to remove the oil soap residue and we are ready to put the new treads down.
In other exciting (well at least to me) news.
Today I unpacked the last four boxes in the upstairs office. Up next, clear out the garage so we may park both of our vehicles in there. Hubby firmly believes that if you have a two car garage it should be used to park your two cars inside. I know this is weighing on him. The weather is great so it will be a perfect weekend project.

2011-07-21T16:56:00.002-04:00

Stair treads-redux - finally a resolution! When we sold our home in New England, we really thought that our new home in the west would be a single story. Why? Because that was what our previous California home had been . . . . I guess. As a result, we left behind the braided rug stair treads because they seemed to go so well with the house. And maybe because I didn't relish the thought of cleaning the double-sided carpet tape residue from the stairs. But I digress.
Fast forward to the new digs. Turns out we didn't find a single story home after all. And the treads left behind on the stairs left a little (okay a LOT) to be desired in style and decorative charm.
Let's all just say it together . . . . BORING!
Thus began the online search to buy new treads. I knew just exactly what I wanted because I had left the very same, practically brand-new ones behind just a few short weeks ago. For the life of me, I could not find the site where I had ordered them. Still I am nothing if not determined. While in my slightly feverish summer cold state, I began the search anew. And while I might not be getting full, clear breaths, I was not to be denied the decorative stair covering of my dreams.
*voila*
They arrived via UPS late yesterday afternoon. We will be installing them tonight after dinner. I can hardly wait.
On the quilting front, I have renewed my determination to finish the hexagon quilt. It had been idle for several weeks. Partly because it gets a little warm under there and partly because it was beginning to feel like a hopeless endeavor. Still I looked at it every day in a crumpled heap dreaming of it dressing my bed. I just couldn't let it wither and wilt into a useless UFO.
Instead I have made the commitment to myself to spend one hour per day on the hand quilting. Now rather than dreading a futile wasted effort, I look forward to the time my quilt and I spend together every day. That's a really nice feeling.

2011-07-20T10:57:00.002-04:00

Finally! I am returning to the land of the living. What an awful two weeks. Who would have thought that a simple summer cold could sap so much from a person? Hubby and I both went down with it and went down hard. I attribute it to we have settled enough to relax - really relax after two stressful years - and that allowed the crud to take hold.
For the most part, I spent the last two weeks reading, sniffling and coughing. But when a burst of energy would come upon me, I would engage in strenuous activities like internet shopping. That shopping resulted in a new addition to the quilting space.
A cubby to hold knick-knacks and supplies. Those empty spots won't be there long.
Next I unearthed the Juki and did some quilting.
I didn't feel all that smooth with meandering at first, but it got better as I went along.
I now have two of the June Lake Camp quilts ready for binding.
Hand stitching binding remains my favorite part of quilting.
Daisy is pretty happy that we are up and about again, too.
She was able to hold her energy level down and just snuggle for the most part. But look at the joy on her face when we finally played in the sprinkler on a warm afternoon. These are summer days that a puppy has just been waiting for.

2011-07-10T12:50:00.000-04:00

Been under the weather . . .
hope to be back soon.

2011-07-02T21:36:00.000-04:00

Three cheers for the red, white and blue!

2011-06-27T18:04:00.007-04:00

I think I have caught up with myself and now I can sit down and share some of the highlights from last week's quilt camp. It was such fun and I'm already looking forward to next year! Camp is held in the June Lake and it put on by Barri of Bareroots and Sierra Cottons & Wools Quilt Shop. This was the fifth year she has hosted this camp and my first experience thanks to the Quilt Pals who signed me up and booked accommodations while I was still living in Massachusetts. *Quilt Pals ROCK!!!*
This is June Lake one of several lakes found on the June Lake Loop
Since everyone else had previous camp experience, it was decided that we could drive up a day early to do some exploring with Yosemite high on the list. Sadly, weather conditions kept us from that plan (next year) but we did visit Silver Lake.
And also Mammoth Mountain Resort (where they are still skiing)
Good news for snow lovers and Californians alike - it was a good, wet winter!
Check out this waterfall -
We could hear it all the way down at the highway. It is sure to grow as the melt continues.
This is Gull Lake.
The lake that we overlooked from our sewing machines.
The view from my seat -
We kept reminding ourselves to look up from our stitching and enjoy the view!
When we settled in our spots, we each had a darling little dish filled with chocolates.
Situated on my sewing table at home, it will be perfect to catch pins and remind me of the fun we had.
Now down to business - quilting! The camp was two days and offered multiple projects. Barri took small groups of campers over the two days and shared a new method of English paper piecing with no thread basting.
In the meantime, the rest of us were working on projects by Cheri - yes, that Cheri! Remember those strips? Well, I took them with me (along with the 1/4 yard cuts) and put them to good use. Sitting at the table with the Quilt Pals, we decided to pool our fabrics and mounded up all of our 1" strips to give us the greatest variety possible.
I worked on two of the three patterns that Cheri offered. All I lack at this point is the applique and a good pressing. I promise they weren't this wrinkly when I packed them to bring home.
Not wanting to take on the third (and largest project) toward the end of the day, one of the Pals and I instead worked on this little ditty from a pattern that was available for purchase.Small block, big border, great impact, destined to be a pillow (after ironing, of course.)
Day 2 brought us to a new project and new teachers, who may not be quite so famous around blog land but quite near and dear to our hearts - one is the fearless leader of our weekly class at Fat Quarters. There is just NO way we could quilt without her!
I stopped stitching after assembling the blocks.
I have to assemble and attach some borders to complete the top. You might be thinking that this is not my usual fabric palette, but I intend to coffee dye the quilt when done. Stay tuned.
I can't say enough good things about my experience - sewing from 8:30 in the morning until 9 at night; delicious, homemade breakfasts and dinners both days, homemade bread and cinnamon rolls along with the free flow of chocolates, water and soft drinks. Not to mention all the laughter with the Pals and some new friends in the mix. Makes you almost wish you could be there all the time . . . except you start to miss home, Hubby and . . .
I'll just hold the good memories until next year when it will be time to make more.

2011-06-24T12:15:00.002-04:00

I'm baaa-aaaack! Quilt Camp was a delight in every way. Lots more about that later. Today I am focused on unpacking, laundry, grocery shopping and most importantly - playing with Daisy. I promise to return with all the delicious details and a few pictures from camp.
For now I'll just leave you with this image from the end of our trip. A most unusual ladies room.
We stopped for lunch at Subway in the desert town of Ridgecrest, California. I guess, when you gotta go . . . . you gotta go. But even after four days of sharing accommodations with five Quilt Pals, this was a little bit more intimate than any of us cared to be.
Just makes you wonder, 'What were they thinking?'

2011-06-17T20:34:00.002-04:00

I'm busy getting ready to go to quilt camp. A high priority is to gather necessary supplies for the projects (which are all mystery projects) being offered and I started doing just that a few days ago. Then I got together with some of the Quilt Pals that are also going and a conversation about the projects came up. Suddenly I realized that somewhere along the line there had been a breakdown in communications when it came to fabric requirements.
After reading the supply list, here is what I put together -
25 - 1" strips of fabric at least 9" in length.
After confirmation from the camp instructor, this is what I am now taking -
25 fabrics that are each 1/4 yard (9") Thank goodness for friends. I would have been over in a far, dark corner trying to put together a micro-mini quilt with my little dabs of fabric.
Today's lesson: Interpretation is everything.

2011-06-10T18:53:00.001-04:00

The new day brings the start of a new quilt.
*wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee*

2011-06-09T16:42:00.002-04:00

It's official.
I have moved into my quilting space. Still a bit on the unorganized side, but functional. Almost more exciting than that is the space outside to take photos. I'm baa-aack!

2011-06-06T10:23:00.004-04:00

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Life is a series of struggles great and small with liberal doses of joy thrown in for good measure. So it is with a heavy, heavy yet hopeful heart that I tell you we have made the VERY difficult decision to return Opie to the animal rescue center.
Actually difficult doesn't even begin to scratch the surface. It was gut-retching to face the truth that it was not a good fit for us as a family but even more so for Opie. We came to a point late last week where it was clear that no matter what type of positive spin I put on it the truth of the matter is that Opie deserves more than a good, loving home, he needs a home where there is a man home the majority of the time.
The volunteers at the rescue center were great with Opie and me, too. They greeted him happily and let him know he had been missed. In turn they listened to me and I'm sure they will use our input in finding the perfect, forever home for him. He wasn't with us long but we did our very best for him from veterinary care to grooming to all the tennis balls he could possibly handle and most of all love and compassion. His paw print will remain on my heart forever.

2011-05-27T16:49:00.002-04:00

Has anyone ever noticed that 'move' is a four-letter word? I remember well the very first time Hubby and I moved with the help of professionals. We were moving from an apartment into base housing. The movers came in, boxed up our things, loaded them on the truck, and later that same day delivered them to our new address. Hubby and I quickly divided the tasks - I starting putting the dishes away and he hooked up the stereo. By the time we went to bed that night, you would have never known that we had just moved in that day. All the packing materials were gone and we even had things hanging on the walls.
My how things have changed. We still divide the duties - Hubby has hooked up the tv's and I have unpacked the kitchen. But two weeks later, we haven't put a single nail in a wall and the garage appears nearly as full of boxes as it did two weeks ago.
Then came the reinforcements! A friend came over on Tuesday to help me unpack some things. Not just any friend but a quilting friend! Three guesses as to what we unpacked and the first two don't count.
It was time to start setting up Quilting Central. We used this entertainment center as a place to put some things away.
A desk to put the sewing machine.
An old bookshelf to stack fabrics.
There's a cozy little nook to sit and do handwork. As a test-run, I spent a couple of hours yesterday quilting on the hexagons.
And the beginnings of how the walls will be decorated.
The entertainment center will be replaced with the Tin Lizzie and new cabinets must be found to hold the supplies. A table for the sewing machine will go in the very center of the space. The work was not for naught, it all needed to come out of the boxes and doing the work with someone else made it fun rather than drudgery. Another friend, with a knack for organization, has offered to help me when I'm ready to add the new storage. Maybe moving isn't so bad after all.
Meanwhile out in the backyard, Daisy and Opie have settled on their favorite toy.
They can play tug-of-war or just walk around in a prancey dancey way. I think we are all adjusting to having Opie here. Daisy is learning to share, Opie is learning the rules and we are learning that a good vacuum cleaner is essential.
We are looking forward to the Memorial Day weekend. More unpacking, a little time to enjoy the backyard, play with the pooches and have The Princess and The Boyfriend over for a barbecue on Sunday. No matter what your plans may be, please remember to take at least a few moments to think about those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Without them, where would we be?

2011-05-23T17:00:00.002-04:00

Our family is growing.
Daisy would like to introduce you to her new pal Opie. Don't let this photo fool you. They are a raucous pair but already fast friends.

2011-05-18T15:48:00.004-04:00

Today I'm taking a breather and poking my head out of my cardboard rabbit hole. Its time to share a little of what has been going on here at the new digs.
With the exception of the bathrooms, there are wood floors throughout. This is very exciting. I love wood floors, I don't mind caring for them, and there is not the *ick* factor of someone else's carpeting. But it has brought about a flurry of area rug shopping. We had a couple of rugs but none nearly enough to take care of all the rooms.
Here the very lovely Daisy models the latest in guest room floor coverings.
Her thought bubble might say something like, 'Are they going to put a bed in here or are guests expected to sleep on the floor?" Don't worry Daisy. As soon as we can find the bed and the bedding we will offer a cozy place for folks to rest their heads.
In super exciting unpacking news, these showed up yesterday.
They are the drawers to the treadle sewing machine cabinet which arrived on the truck sans drawers. Because of the confusion with the move being split onto two trucks, we thought these had taken up residence with the other family somewhere in Arizona along with our vacuum cleaner (which has also now been located). There was an audible *gasp* when I unwrapped them yesterday that could be heard throughout the county. I am so happy, Hubby is so happy, the moving company is SO happy!
Here is a sneak peek into my future quilting space. I got to spend a little time there stitching last week while waiting for appliances to be delivered.
The space was originally designed to be the family room and was used by the previous owners as the dining room (thus the low hanging concussion maker that is soon to be replaced). It is truly in the heart of the home next to the kitchen, easy access to the backyard and the laundry room. A small built in desk will become Blogging Central. But first -
all of this must find a spot to call home. The red furniture will stay put in what would normally be the 'breakfast nook'. But all of those boxes contain a lifetime or two or three of things that all need to be put away. A similar scene can be found throughout the house, upstairs, downstairs and the garage, too.
As long as I continue to chip away at it a little each day, we will be settled in before we know it. Earlier this week we celebrated being fully functional - cooking, sleeping, bathing and laundry, the essentials. Every little thing makes it feel more and more like home. But I'm wondering . . . does anyone want to lay odds on how long before I go on autopilot while doing errands and pull into the driveway of our previous home and sit in the driveway trying to figure out why the garage won't open? It's only a matter of time.

2011-05-09T11:03:00.002-04:00

I love when a good plan all comes together. Sometimes it just takes a LOT of patient waiting to get there. Last week it felt as if the clock was ticking off the seconds in s-l-o-o-o-o-w motion as we counted down to the close of escrow and the keys to our new home.
I passed some of the time by going to a favorite antique/junk shop in town looking for treasure.
I was not disappointed. After some clean-up, sanding and fresh coats of paint, these will all find new life with us. The newel post tops will become towel hooks for the bathroom. The tool caddy will probably hold fabric or little quilts.
Finally Saturday morning arrived all fresh and filled with sunshine. We met our Realtor to finally get a look at the house completely empty and full of promise.
Here it is - Home Sweet Home! We immediately started bringing over a few boxes from the apartment and started thinking about where everything will go. I have been calling the new digs our 'Goldilocks house'. Our first house in California was just a little too small. The house in Massachusetts was just a little too big. This house feels like it's going to be just right. And the yard - so much room for Daisy to play with lots of room left over for gardening. Remember the citrus trees? They are still there, but I discovered what I think may be a peach tree . . . be still my heart!
As if all that were not enough - it was also Mother's Day and The Princess was in fine form. We were invited over to her place for dinner - schnitzel and spaetzel! On the table was a beautiful vase filled with tulips.
It was fun to chat with her and Boyfriend (whom I still haven't settled on an 'official' blog name for yet - I feel like he's going to be a keeper so I don't want to saddle him with something that isn't right) as they put the finishing touches on our meal. Boyfriend provided dessert homemade brownies (he cooks and bakes!) As if that were not enough, there were presents afterward.
First you should probably know that we are not a family that finds pleasure in wrapping gifts. Christmas is about the only time we actually make the effort. So instead the recipient is simply asked to 'close your eyes and hold out your hands'. When I opened my eyes, this is what I saw.
Huh? The Princess quickly informed me that this is what the gift looked like to start out. Now to close my eyes again. This time when I opened them there was this!
Is that not just the coolest thing? And she made it herself! Boyfriend has a lathe and they have been making pens from wood and even corn cobs. I know it was killing her to not tell what she was up to. I know there are going to be LOTS of 'signing' opportunities coming up. I'll be so proud to tell everyone all about my new, beautiful pen.
Now it's back to the business of getting settled. I have a list of phone calls and errands for today that is about as long as my arm. Better get busy or it will never get done.

2011-05-02T13:35:00.002-04:00

*tap tap tap* Is this thing on? Seriously? It seems that the apartment complex that we are temporarily calling 'home' is in some sort of Internet black hole. Our ability to get online and stay connected is a very hit-and-miss thing.
So what have I been doing instead of surfing the information super-highway? Well, I spent a lot of time with the royals toward the end of last week. You've all seen the photos - beautiful bridal gown, neat and tidy military uniforms, hats that leave you wondering. But I bet you haven't seen this -
This gal was on a program discussing the royal jewels. She was not a random, woman-on-the-street interview. No, she is some sort of published authority on the subject. And now my hair style inspiration. From now on when I fall back on just pulling my hair into a ponytail (which is pretty much every day) I will no longer feel that I am lazy or uninspired.
Hubby and I laugh almost every day over the fact that Daisy is NOT a morning dog. She much prefers to lounge around until the crack of noon. You can imagine that the early hour of the royal wedding was not to her liking at all. So I had to laugh when I went looking for her after the balcony kiss.
Looks like Billy Goat had a rough morning, too.
On the home front, we will be finalizing our purchase this week. It looks like things may come together so that we can close escrow a few days early. With that in mind, we were out doing a little shopping this weekend. We are looking for some new area rugs and a patio set. What we came back with was this:
I couldn't resist. It suits me for sure. I think it will look great right near the front door.

2011-04-22T10:43:00.002-04:00

Do you sometimes feel like you are in one of those old movies where they show the pages of the calendar flying away to show the passage of time? It has felt that way over the last week. Just turned around and *poof* it was gone.
While are still living in a state of limbo, Daisy and I have continued our plan of getting out and exploring something daily.
There are morning glories that are growing on the banks near the beach where we walk. It's hard to tell from this photo, but this bloom is bigger than my hand. I've never seen them so large before.
This sculpture makes me smile. She is just so exuberant. She can be found not far from the fellows on the life guard chairs that I shared last week.
I have enjoyed visiting the farmer's market each week.
Not only is it great to be out walking in the sunshine, but just look at the delicious bounty that now fills our fridge.
On the quilting front, a friend did some quilting for me this past week and the quilt came home to me on Wednesday.
I shared the piecing of the top in this post last summer. You can see that it has been quite patient waiting so long for its quilting.
I've been working on the stitching down the binding. It will still grace a bed in the guest room when complete. Only 18 days left until we sign the papers on that guest room. Is someone counting? Oh yeah - that would be me!

2011-04-16T11:02:00.003-04:00

Where, oh where has my camera cord gone?* And a few other choice items, too. We have settled into our temporary digs - a two bedroom apartment that is serving not only as a living space but a storage unit as well. We have taken up residence in one bedroom and the living room. The rest of the space is holding ALL of our worldly belongings (minus the things we already know didn't arrive in our shipment *argh*)
Here you can see that the garage is stuffed to the gills with only a narrow aisle to pass through. The second bedroom looks the same. A few boxes are even serving as occasional tables, artfully draped with quilts to disguise what the really are.
I had BIG plans to use this time of temporary residence to get some quilting done. HA! After carefully packing projects and associated supplies, it came to me that in a box somewhere (refer to photo above) is my iron. I wouldn't even know where to begin.
That brought me back to quilting the hexagons. Plenty of work there to keep me busy, if only I had not lost my thimble. You never know just how attached you are to your thimble until it is gone. It really was THE perfect thimble. I have purchase five different replacements over the course of the last three weeks. While one is a suitable substitute, I will continue to look for that perfect fit again.
So my days are mostly filled with getting outside and exploring some of my favorite old haunts and introducing Daisy to a lot of new places. The weather has been just splendid almost every day.
Several times a week we go to the beach for a nice walk. The sound of the waves is soothing to me. The squirrels grazing on the dunes makes Daisy feel at home.
We spotted these Sweet Peas growing in a front yard garden. If only you could smell them, too. They are my favorite flower, a lot of special memories are tied to these little beauties.
Don't these guys look a little bored? Maybe they could come down and help me find my missing items. A win/win for all.

*today's photos brought to you courtesy of my cell phone camera . . . the cord will show up eventually

2011-04-05T11:22:00.001-04:00

One month ago, she had never even ridden on the seat. Now she insists on having the window down for the best view possible.

2011-04-02T16:53:00.002-04:00

Direct from my future new backyard -
and they have cousins, a grapefruit and lemon tree, too! Oh how I have missed my fruit trees.
It has been a VERY busy week. Two trucks arrived with our belongings which are all now crammed into a two bedroom apartment. We celebrated Hubby's birthday. Did you know you can have a really fun party even while still living in a motel? There was a fun (FUN) party at the quilt shop in my honor this week - friends, food and fabric, oh my! A couple of dinners with The Princess and BF (we need to settle on a blog name for him) And last but not least, we found a house that will soon be ours. I feel a little weird sharing photos since the ones I've taken all feature the current owner's things and that just doesn't seem right to post. So for now the oranges will have to do.
Lots of hoops to jump through to get to escrow closing. If I am absent in the coming weeks, I'm sure you'll understand. I'll check in from time to time. Once we are settled, I'll have lots and lots and lots to share.

2011-03-24T21:19:00.002-04:00

Thank you to all that sent warm wishes and kept good thoughts for safe travel. Daisy and I have arrived safe and sound in California. We were greeted with a little bit of rain, sprinkles really, and today the sun shone brightly all day. Look at what we found on our walk at the beach today.
I do love those California poppies! The truck will be here tomorrow with our household goods. Lots of things to tend to in the coming days. I'll be back soon with lots of stories and probably some great photos, too.

2011-03-16T08:45:00.002-04:00

Things are about to shift into high gear here. Lots of details to attend to before pointing myself westward. So I leave you with this - no way to say it any better.

See you soon . . . from the glorious Pacific coast.

2011-03-12T17:22:00.000-05:00

The most beautiful sight in all of New England!

2011-03-03T12:13:00.001-05:00

I wonder if this was what it felt like to drive the Golden Spike.

2011-02-26T14:32:00.003-05:00

All Aboard! Now departing - The Finish Line Train.
Well, finish-line such as it is. I am dangerously close to completing the top of Martha Washington's Flower Garden. It was in a post exactly two years ago where I first mentioned starting this quilt and I have been sharing plenty of progress updates in the interim.
A few weeks back, I thought I had pieced my last diamond and had a little celebration. Now I have found that due to a terrible counting error on my part, I was actually 5 diamonds short of a top. One down and four to go with all the pieces cut and ready to baste.
Another lesson learned along the way is to be flexible. No mention on the inspiration website of the size of the hexagon pieces, only the finished quilt dimensions. So I did what I do best - gathered up what seemed like a TON of fabric and got to work. It was easy to add in another plaid or two or three or four or . . . along the way and work them in throughout the entire top. What didn't work out quite so well was the fabric I had chosen for the path or connector pieces. It is from an older line of fabric and not readily available. When I first decided to use it, I bought all that was available at my LQS. Fearing that it may not be enough to finish, I began an online search and order campaign that resulted in more than enough fabric to make the back of the quilt but none that was an exact match for the top.
If you look carefully -
you can see that I am now using the nearest match to the original to finish up my last row of diamonds. I am not at all put off by the look. If it were an antique quilt, we would think that perhaps the dyes had faded in that area for some reason or that the maker was a clever, make-do pioneer woman. We would applaud her artistic and frugal choice. While I hope it looks like a casual change over, I put a lot of thought and planning into just where the new fabric would make it's appearance.
If I keep my nose to the grindstone and my eyes on the prize, I believe that I could put the last stitches in while watching the Oscar ceremony tomorrow night. I will then have to put it aside while I order batting. The batting I have on hand is a 90" queen-size. The top measures 90" x 107", so I need to order a king. In the meantime I can put together the backing and there is always this waiting in the wings.

2011-02-17T13:36:00.000-05:00

2011-02-15T15:04:00.002-05:00

Fish or cut bait! We've all heard that phrase and can probably cite a way that we have applied it in our own lives. It is certainly true for me. A little background - it was not an easy decision to completely uproot ourselves and try to establish again on the other side of the country. But Hubby and I did so with open hearts and open minds. We moved to New England with a 15-year plan - to work, make our home and experience this part of the country in a way we could not do in a two-week vacation. At the end of that time, we would plan our retirement and most likely head west- returning to the Golden State for our golden years.
The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Even before our furniture arrived, the company Hubby was hired by here was sold and the tenor of the work for which he was hired was dramatically changed. Still in such a poor economy we had much to be thankful for: our health; a beautiful, thoughtful, smart and successful daughter; a lovely new home; and each other and let's not forget that Hubby had a job, not always easy to come by or keep in the current economy. Enter the 5 to 7-year plan.
We enjoyed our first New England fall and all of its glorious color. We reveled in the wonders of winter. We worked hard to turn this house into our home. We took some great trips. We said goodbye to a beloved member of the family and welcomed a new member to the fold. Still it felt more like we were going through the motions day-to-day rather than living a life. With no school-age children and not working outside of the home, I found it difficult to find or form friendships in this small town. I gave it a good try and have enjoyed getting to know the gals that were brave enough to take the leap and join me.
I really tried to keep a brave face. Hubby seemed to be enjoying his work, I LOVED the hours he was keeping - for the first time in our lives we were enjoying leisurely mornings without worry over beating the commuter traffic. I was able to plan on putting dinner on the table at the same time every evening. From the outside everything looked good.
But you didn't have to scratch the surface very hard to learn that we were both just miserable! Hubby was not feeling challenged or fulfilled by his job. He felt that the skills he brought to the table when was hired were being lost to him. After being laid-off, we both fully understand that presenting your best, most marketable self is of the utmost importance. As for me, I have just felt desperately alone and lonely. I miss The Princess, I miss my friends, I miss my garden, I miss the state that I will always call home and it seems that Hubby was feeling just the same way.
It has been two years since Hubby learned that he was being down-sized, the economy is showing some signs of improvement. The job market in his field has begun showing some signs of opening up and we have made the decision to cry, 'Uncle' and go home.The 'for sale' sign was planted in the snow on Saturday.
I mixed a double-batch of chocolate chip cookie dough, portioned it out, and tucked them in the freezer.
So simple to drop a half-dozen cookies on a baking sheet 30 minutes before an appointment to see the house.
They look inviting on the counter and the house smells G-O-O-D! Every little detail can only help.
In order to not make a mess, I sit quietly and stitch on my hexagons. It is dangerously close to being a full-fledged quilt top. I can't find a good place to take a photo. So here is one half -
and the other.Whether in this house in the east or someplace new in the west - I still can hardly wait to see it on my bed!

2011-02-03T08:05:00.002-05:00

The storms just keep coming. Over the weekend there was a futile attempt to dig our way out.
Digging . . . .Just keep digging . . . .What are we crazy? Let's just wait for the next storm, then we'll be able to just walk out.We are mere tenths of an inch away from breaking into the top 10 snowiest winters on record for this area. Even I am ready for a break at this point!

2011-01-28T08:01:00.004-05:00

It is quite possible that we have reached capacity in regard to snow fall.
And still I think it's fun and beautiful.
But after 2 hours of helping Hubby remove the latest storm from our driveway
and sidewalk
my lower back might starting to protest just ever so slightly.
Later in the afternoon, I went out and shoveled in the yard for another hour trying to make some romping area for Daisy.
She loves getting out for a romp, but after a while she has to take a rest break. Now she has the choice to play in the deep stuff or just conduct a little business and get right back inside.
After all the work and play is done outside, I get right back to work on my hexagons. Can you stand another photo?
I decided to put it on the bed and see where I stand. I think I guessed right on the number of diamonds I need. A respite from shoveling this weekend should give me lots of stitching time.

2011-01-23T11:48:00.003-05:00

Holy Cow! How did the time get away from me? Thank you for all the great birthday good wishes. I have been celebrating and celebrating - mostly outside in the snow. Guess I just can't get enough of the snow. Now I know that some of you lifetime snow-folk don't find the same joy in the white stuff as I do, but boy-oh-boy are we having fun!
Here is a typical view of Daisy at play.
She is a master at 'breaking trail.' Why would you want to retrace your steps when there is fresh, fluffy snow to be tromped through?
She also likes tackling the VERY high piles that the snowplows leave behind. Here she is near one of the summits.
Even with all the wintry weather, there are still squirrels up in the trees. The need to be chased!
Looks like she may have spotted one.
Just when you think that you've seen a lot, another storm passes our way.
Can you find the mailbox?
Have I mentioned that I enjoy shoveling?
I cleared the driveway and the entrance to Hubby's side of the garage last week during a storm. Now I'm not silly about it. I left the entrance to my side of the garage covered. Hubby likes the chance to play with the snow thrower, too. With a 4wd pick-up, I knew I could get out if I had to. It's fun that there's enough snow to share.
The next day, the sky was clear and so were some of the sidewalks. Daisy and I ventured out on a walk.Poor girl, she had to work at getting a good view.
Look at The Common.
I got this photo before they cleared the sidewalks. It's almost filled with snow. I think it looks beautiful and peaceful.
All of that outdoor activity can make a girl tired.
She does love her pillow pal . . . . but then she made a new discovery upstairs.
Is she trying to tell me she would like a bedroom of her very own?
On the quilting front, I have been getting some stitches in my hexagon project every day. I finished the last of the diamonds and now need to make some odd shapes to fill in the outer edges.
This will fill in the top edge.
And this will fill in the sides.
Now that the block construction is done, the top is growing quickly. It's almost exhilarating to see the progress.
Some very exciting things are happening here at home right now. If I am not around much in the coming weeks, just know I am very busy and will be back soon with all the details . . . . stay tuned.

2011-01-13T08:38:00.002-05:00

We had a snow day - our first 'official snow day'! Could I have been a bit miffed that the call came in at 5 a.m. from Hubby's employer? I could have been . . . . but before I could get really worked up over it, I was opening my eyes and it was 7 o'clock, a snow day and
my birthday!
I don't know what time the snow started falling, but when we came downstairs the backyard was filling up.
Had to borrow the shovel from Frosty to help Hubby. I worked on the front steps and walk while he cleared the driveway. All the while the plows were going by again, and again and again.
Those are some pretty impressive walls of snow. I just cannot get over how high up it is compared to the bottom of the stop sign.
Daisy was out frolicking away, leaping through the drifts.
But that it exhausting, even for one filled with such energy.
It was a great day all around - a day that brought the most snow I've ever seen, cards, calls and emails from all around and closed out with an amazing A Capella chorus of friends on the phone. I went to bed with a cold nose and a warm heart.

2011-01-11T08:09:00.003-05:00

Looks like it's time to start hunkering down. Depending on which news station I tune into, we are expecting anywhere from 10 - 18" of snowfall starting late tonight. I have changed my plans for today to include a trip to the grocery for a few things to fill up the fridge. Then I shouldn't have to go out once the snow flies . . . . unless I want to do so. There are even some rumblings that Hubby might have a 'snow day' at work tomorrow. That would make for a wonderful birthday present, don't you think?
In addition to making sure our cupboards are full, I have been preparing some quilting projects to keep me busy indoors.
Lots of triangles to finish my wool quilt top.And the last bits of basting hexagons.
They will be added to this box.I need all them (and maybe more) so I can assemble the last of the diamonds into a real, honest-to-goodness quilt top.
The light at the end of the tunnel is getting a little brighter each day. There will be some partial diamonds needed to finish the edges of the quilt, but the bulk of the block piecing is done - a happy thing in my book.
Okay, now I'm even more inspired. Time to get those errands done because . . . . I gotta stitch!

2011-01-09T11:20:00.002-05:00

Daisy says:
No time to blog, we gotta go outside and play.

And make some new friends. Look who we found in our backyard this morning.
The good news is there's another storm coming this week. That makes for lots more play time outside and that makes me and Daisy very happy. I feel like I haven't been outside in a year. So in the famous words of Frosty the Snowman . . . . I'll be back again, someday.

2011-01-03T13:03:00.002-05:00

What a difference a week makes. This is all that's left of our snowman - a small pile of snow and a dog toy.
At least Daisy is still able to enjoy him.
I'm going to continue my blogging break just a wee tad longer. Lots of fun stories from the holidays, but before all that I feel like I need to restore some order to my daily schedule. The best way to do that is to stay away from the computer for a few more days. I appreciate the understanding . . . . be back soon.

2010-12-27T10:11:00.001-05:00

We interrupt this regularly scheduled blog for some snow days . . . . be back soon.

2010-12-23T08:06:00.002-05:00

There's snow on the pig! I couldn't be happier knowing we will have a white Christmas.
There's gingerbread to be baked, dough for rolls that needs to rise, stuffing to prepare, breakfast strata to assemble . . . . the list seems to go on and on. The Princess will be here soon and I want to have it all done beforehand. Gotta go - Merry Christmas everyone!

2010-12-22T11:31:00.002-05:00

Are you getting excited? I am. Christmas will be here before we know it. Even at my current advanced age I cannot help but get excited that the big day! I love to wake up early (really early) on Christmas morning. The rest of my family may not be quite so anxious, but they play along because they know I find it so magical.
A couple of posts back I showed a photo of quilts that are hanging in our hallway. I've had several comments and emails asking about the red 9 patch quilt.
It is a pattern from Blackbird Designs. Several years back they offered a series of patterns to make a quilt called Christmas Memories. In each of the four pamphlets there were 'bonus' patterns to make. And this quilt is one of those projects. It is called Little Ben's Quilt. The patterns are available here. I just couldn't resist it - the ticking and those vintage strings of lights, well they just say, 'Ho Ho Ho.'
Gotta go, plenty to be done before the big day!

2010-12-20T13:25:00.002-05:00

It's getting down to the wire! Time for those last minute preps. All the packages are wrapped and under the tree. Only things left to do are maybe a little baking and a last minute trip to the market for those fresh ingredients that you don't want on hand too soon. Oh . . . . and could we please get a little snow? If a California girl is not going to be living in California then the thing she wants most is a white Christmas. I'm just sayin'.
Daisy and I dropped off a little gift basket at the kennel where we go for daycare and all of our training and boarding. They are so sweet there, really love the pets and go all out for them. For example, they offered photos with Santa recently.
Didn't the picture turn out darling? I will have to remember that the photographer used a 'squeaky' to get her attention instead of food. No drooling!
With the sewing machine put away for the holidays, my stack of hexagon diamonds is getting larger by the day.
There are now 30 complete diamonds ready to be added to the top. Six more diamonds to go. Then I will need to baste what seems like miles and miles of the setting fabric and a few partial diamonds for the edges. It's getting very exciting. Does that make me a quilt nerd? I hope so.

2010-12-15T08:36:00.003-05:00

Putting up decorations has been an interesting process this year. We had not been in this house very long at Christmas-time last year and I was still trying to unpack everyday household items. In some ways, I was just going through the motions and I didn't even get many photos of how it looked. This year I've decided to take more pictures and share a few more, too.
This is the tree in the family room.
We bought this tree in 2008 not knowing that would be the only Christmas it would be used in California. I am so glad that at the very last moment I chose the 8 1/2' tree rather than the 10' *whew*
We also have a tree in the dining room.
All the ornaments on this tree are animals.
In a brief flash of creativity, I started placing holiday cards on the gate above the fireplace.
Is it kismet that so far all the cards are 'landscape-oriented'?
I came up with a fun way to display some smaller Christmas quilts.
3M Command Poster Adhesive Strips made it easy to do - no holes in the wall or the quilts and no need for hanging sleeves either.
One wall in the hallway is large enough to accommodate two quilts.
I like to add something new each year.
We picked up this gourd snowman while in Vermont for Thanksgiving.
All of these new things have kept the curiosity level on 'high' for Daisy.
Looks like she's peeking down the stairs to see if Santa has arrived yet.
All of this decorating activity has not stopped the regular chores.
I am continually amazed at how two fairly neat adults are able to generate SO many dirty clothes each week! That basket, as you can see, is filled to overflowing and nary a towel or sheet set in sight.
I've been stitching away on my hexagons. Only 12 diamonds left to go and lots of Christmas movies still to be watched. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting ever brighter.

2010-12-13T08:04:00.004-05:00

Were you in New York City this past Saturday? If not, you may well be the ONLY human-being who wasn't. First, a little background:
About 10 years ago, Hubby and I had a discussion about Christmas gift giving and came to the conclusion that for us the best gift of all is the gift of time. So other than perhaps a token little something under the tree we really haven't 'shopped' for gifts for each other in over a decade. Instead we plan for fun evening events, day-trips or weekend get-a-ways all through the year.
Last weekend was one of those get-a-ways. As a 'girl of a certain age', I have long had a secret crush on Donny Osmond. When it was recently announced that Donny and Marie would be bringing a holiday show to Broadway, Hubby put the wheels in motion for a trip to the Big Apple.
We started out bright and early Saturday morning, driving to New Jersey where we set up camp at a hotel conveniently located to public transportation into the city. Before we knew it we were leaving the Port Authority bus terminal and we were greeted by a legion of Santas assembling at a subway entrance.Thinking they may be part of a flash-mob, we quickly crossed the street to get a closer look. But the Santas had an agenda and disappeared into the subway leaving us wondering what in the heck was happening.
It appears that only Santas were invited.
These Easter bunnies looked lonely walking down the street. We later learned that this was all part of SantaCon 2010. There is a SantaCon website that has crashed. Visit if you like, but it does contain strong language. However, you may learn things such as: SantaCon is NOT a pub crawl. When called such a sugarplum fairy dies. It looks like a great way to have fun and get into the Christmas spirit.
We next went straight to Times Square where preparations are underway for the New Years Eve celebration. The ball is in place, the reviewing stand has been erected - all we need now is for the day to arrive. At the Times Square Visitors Center, I wrote my New Year Wish on a confetti square that will float out with all the others when the ball is dropped at midnight.
After lunch, we joined the crush of people walking the city streets. We made our way to the theater and enjoyed our show. It was just what I had hoped it would be. It makes me smile to think about those in attendance. The number of women in the audience was quite high, but there were a lot of men who, like Hubby, were happy to be there just because they knew it made their wives happy.
When the show ended, we were ready to hit the streets again hoping to see some of the holiday sights for which the city is famous. After a stop for a Jamba Juice - yes, the weather was nice enough to enjoy a cold treat not easily found in our neck of the woods - we walked ourselves to the edge of Central Park at The Plaza Hotel. There among the lights, horse-drawn carriages and holiday shoppers, Hubby purchased a holiday treat long immortalized in song.
We sampled our very first roasted chestnuts, leaning up against The Plaza, watching people going to and fro before we joined the bustle down 5th Ave to look at the holiday window displays with a goal of reaching Macy's at Herald Square.
Soon it became clear that we had been swept up in a tide of the masses. It was just a sea of humanity in motion. We were unable to stop and actually look at the window displays, best to keep moving or just be run over. Finally after mere jostling turned into being body slammed by people going in the opposite direction, we moved off 5th Ave hoping to make our destination on an alternate route.
But before we reached the goal, this small-town gal came to the conclusion that it just wasn't going to be worth it. A combination of unseasonably warm weather, holiday shoppers, and tourists such as ourselves brought out SO many people that it would impossible to enjoy the experience. The only way to get a view of anything would be to push, shove and generally be rude to others. Rather than leave with a disappointing memory, we decided to keep our imaginations in tact and changed course again. We turned around, walked back to Rockefeller Center for a peek at the Christmas Tree before taking the bus back to our hotel just in time for It's A Wonderful Life on t.v.
It turned out to be a great way to end our adventure. George Baily reminded me that even though we didn't see all that we had planned there were some perfect, wonderful moments to stash away as memories and every single bit of it was shared with Hubby. To me, that is what makes the gift of time the very best gift of all.

2010-12-07T16:28:00.003-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas - everywhere you go. But I'd say nowhere more than right here in my own home. This is Daisy's first Christmas and all the hubbub is keeping her on her toes.
She has helped to decorate the trees.
There was a photo session for our Christmas card. I never even got a picture of her wearing the Santa hat. It was down over her eyes and she just looked miserable. All of my laughing probably didn't help.
This idea didn't exactly pan out either - Daisy wants NOTHING to do with items in her mouth unless they can be eaten.
In order to get a more perky looking pup, I posed her while holding a doggy treat in my teeth or balanced on my head.
Take a closer look and you will see the drool on my scarf. Yes, it's headed to the dry cleaners.
This past weekend was the big holiday season kick off in our little town. Lots of church bazaars and activities at local businesses. We joined in by purchasing a wreath for the door from our neighbor church's craft fair. Daisy visited with Santa at the kennel where she goes to daycare - (photos pending.) I hope they are good because we won't be doing that again next year.
Just before sunset* on Sunday the townsfolk gathered at the Common for the arrival of Santa. He rode into town on a fire engine to officially light the town tree.
We stayed just long enough for the lights to go on and headed straight home. Gosh it is cold! And not a flake of snow to be found. If it's going to be this cold the least it could do is snow. Good thing you don't need snow to enjoy hot chocolate. That's how we closed out the weekend, steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows and a holiday movie. A scene to be recreated again and again this month.

*It was SO cold that the zoom feature on my camera would not work. A quick 'lens error' message and then the camera would power off. Poor camera :-(

2010-12-02T09:19:00.002-05:00

Once again time is flying by faster than my mind can grasp. I feel as if I've lost an entire week. Honestly, I thought there was going to be another whole week between Thanksgiving and the beginning of December. Well, what's a girl to do but cope?
So I began by returning the dining room table to its original purpose rather than my quilting space in preparation for the holidays and associated decorating. In doing so a question crossed my mind: Are finished quilts overrated?

Two of these three are works in progress. Yet they look pretty darned nice hanging on the ladder as they are. When I first began my quilting career, I insisted on fully finishing a quilt before beginning a new project. That didn't last too terribly long. I soon learned that variety is not only the spice of life but the creative juice that keeps quilters going. Now it sometimes feels like a 57 Variety of unfinished projects are swirling all around me.
But it's really not a race to have the most quilts but enjoying the process that results in quilts that is what keeps us coming back for more. So I've put my sewing machine away until the new year. But I'm fully prepared to stitch my way through the holidays.
These diamonds are waiting to be stitched together and added to the quilt top.
This box holds all the strips needed to make the rest of the diamonds.
And these strips (and then some) will need to be basted for putting it all together. While my work is cut out for me, I do feel like I'm starting to see the light at the end of this tunnel and I can just begin to envision this quilt on my bed rather than on that ladder.

2010-11-29T08:56:00.006-05:00

Wow! That was f-a-s-t! Thanksgiving and the long weekend are over in just a *blink* of an eye. But before we jump headlong into all things Christmas, I want to go back and share the weekend.
Hubby and I were invited to join cousins, a great uncle and aunt, and their extended families for Thanksgiving in Vermont. Oh Vermont! Easily my favorite spot here in the east. We got on the turnpike (with much of the rest of the Massachusetts population) in the morning after a leisurely breakfast on Thursday. Good news was that much of traffic dissipated at the junction to go into Connecticut.
The weather was beautiful but quite cold. Much colder than even at home, where it has been plenty cold - thank-you-very-much. We stopped on the way to check in at the Inn we would be staying at and then enjoyed one of the most delightful Thanksgivings in recent memory. It was a very special day.
Rather than join in on all the Black Friday hoopla - okay, how much 'hoopla' can there be in rural Vermont? - we planned for a leisurely day on Friday which began with a local craft show and sale. It was quite local but we did come home with a little something.
Don't you think that pull-toy would be perfect for a little cowboy?
Next we went back to Middlebury for a stroll around the downtown. I had my first ever Ben Franklin store experience. A little something for everyone! I hope it won't be my last.
It seems that of the places that we visit, Hubby and I enjoy 'college towns' the most. Middlebury is no exception. Much of the town's history is evident in the buildings but a youthful, modern vibe from the student population keeps it feeling fresh and alive. This beautiful river flows right through the center of town.
We found the ice crystals that were forming from the mist to be beautiful and fascinating, too.
Then there was this 'door of mystery'.
The door marked '9' appears to have good street access, but what about the door above it? I hope no sleepwalkers live there!
We visited the National Museum of the Morgan Horse. In the little town where I grew up, all girls of a certain age were 'horse crazy'. We read every book about horses we could get our hands on, drew pictures of horses on our book covers - you know, the book covers made from cut up brown paper grocery bags and a few lucky girls had a horse of their very own. So this was a must stop spot for me. As luck would have it, I found a copy of Justin Morgan Had a Horse to add to our home library. I wonder how many times Hubby has heard me mention that book over the years?
In the late afternoon we stopped in for a latte at a local coffee shop (Starbucks is NOT on every or any corner for that matter) before heading back to the Inn where we spent some time in the lobby. I had my hand-sewing and Hubby entertained us both with articles from the local newspaper before we finished the day with dinner at the inn's restaurant.
Saturday morning we woke to some little snow flurries. I don't think snow falling from the sky will ever become old for me. It's just magical. Before we knew it, it was time to get on the road and head south again. We took a different and quite scenic route home. Passed by the original Vermont Country Store location and stopped in at the Yankee Candle Flagship store in Deerfield, MA.
Once we were home, it took a while to get the house warm. We'll leave the thermostat set a little higher the next time we have a weekend get-away when the temps are low outside. Thank goodness we have plenty of quilts on hand. Add in some hot chocolate and The Sound of Music on dvd (did you know the Von Trapp family has a Vermont connection?) It was a great weekend, over far too quickly. But no time to think about that, time to start decking the halls and wrapping gifts . . . . only 26 days left until Christmas.

2010-11-28T09:19:00.002-05:00

Even though I don't have an 'official' bucket list - participating in a flash mob ranks high on my list of things to do someday!

2010-11-19T12:22:00.002-05:00

At the end of my last post, I was trying to get out of my pj's and get ready for a whole lot of fun. And what a whole lot of fun was had. Three friends from California flew out to spend a few days here in New England - sightseeing, catching up and having general merriment. I believe that we were more than successful.
I came up with a list of places to go and things to do - a very full agenda that kept us on the move. First up was a trip to Old Sturbridge Village.
Much to our delight, there is a featured display of quilts. We spent a lot of time looking them over and dreaming of how we could possibly recreate one or two of the designs. The display continues through June 2011. It was a full day exploring the village and learning a little about colonial life in the mid 19th century.
Saturday found us on the road bright and early. The first stop of the day was The Vermont County Store.There is a lot of nostalgic merchandise packed into that store. Everywhere you turn you hear exclamations of, "oh, I remember this . . . " No time to waste, though. We had to get back on the road for the next stop - Dorr Mill Store.
Oh my! What a lot of wool. I've never seen so much all in one place. So taken by it all, I forgot to take any pictures. But I did not forget to make purchases! I picked up some yardage to try my hand at a quilt and a penny rug project. Could have stayed longer, but we had an agenda and a timetable.
Next stop - Keepsake Quilting. Yes, that Keepsake Quilting. The one with the catalog. I don't know that I would go so far as to say that the shop was on anyone's 'bucket list' but it is fun to be able to say, "Keepsake Quilting, oh, I've been there." As a bonus, in the same center was a shop called Hitching Post Primitives. Picked up some goodies there. Seems that it is a fairly new shop. I'm hoping that their website will be expanded for shopping. So many things that are right up my alley in that little spot.
A quick stop for dinner and we headed back home and quickly tucked ourselves into bed. Sunday would bring another full day. We caught the commuter train into Boston while humming a little tune.

You would think that we would have been getting tired - but oh no. We walked The Freedom Trail. There is an awful lot of history to be found in New England. Much of it of great historical significance, but there is pop culture, too.
The Omni Parker House provided the perfect spot to rest a little and enjoy an afternoon treat.
The site of both the invention of Boston Creme Pie and the Parker House roll. The perfect snack to give us the *ooomph* to hurry back to the station to catch the train just before it pulled away.
Monday came with the respite from travel, but no less of a full day. During our travels we learned that one among us had never prepared a holiday turkey with fixin's. Well, that just wouldn't do. So we stayed home and made a meal worthy of any Thanksgiving table - turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and fresh cranberry sauce.
You know there is a lot of downtime once that turkey goes in the oven. So we pulled out fabrics and stitched up a remembrance of our time together. This is my prototype, quilted and bound, destined to be a hostess gift at our upcoming Thanksgiving.
And here is the one I stitched with my friends.
If you would like to make one for yourself, here's how.

I did not have that particular tool, but a little creative internet research and you'll be able to locate a template if you don't have one yourself.
With stitching done, it was time for dinner.
You can see that it was a great success. Every plate on the table was clean as a whistle when dinner was through.
Tuesday came all too soon. But I don't think we could have possibly packed another minute of fun into our time together. I do miss those gals terribly, but hope to see them again real soon. There's lots more adventures to be had.
In the meantime, remember those quilts on display at OSV?
This little crib quilt may not seem particularly stunning or complex, but it has been the perfect inspiration.
I got out the wool yardage I picked up over the weekend and started stitching. Working with wool in this way is a new and exciting experience. Time for me to get away from the computer and back to the sewing machine.

2010-11-11T08:15:00.003-05:00

11-11. Hubby and my favorite number. The one we notice on the clock and call each other. Just one of the those funny things that you don't know how they start but before you know it, it's part of your daily life. So just imagine the fun when the date 11-11 rolls around.
But silliness aside, November 11 is an important day on the calendar. It is Veteran's Day and it is with pride that I share a photo of my favorite veterans.
This picture was taken when The Princess completed basic training in the Air Force. There was a seven month time span just prior to Hubby retiring from the USMC that the two of them were on active duty at the same time. Thank you to all the men and women that sacrifice so much for our freedom.
On the quilting front, it seems like I haven't had much to share of late. Most everything I'm currently working on is being done by hand. Satisfying work, but not much progress to share. I have all the wool applique placed for stitching on Soot and Ashes.
Then as if to point out that I don't have enough irons in the fire, I was enticed by the Home for the Holidays blog hop.
I could not resist the design offered by Cheri Payne. And a little bit like Santa, got straight to my work.
The top is pieced, applique stitched. Now to add the embroidery embellishments.
But all that is on hold for the next five days. There is GREAT excitement around our house. This afternoon, The California Girls arrive in New England. Three of my quilting pals are flying out for a what I hope will be a whole lot of fun. I hardly got any sleep last night in anticipation. I just received a text that they are on their way . . . . and me still here in my pj's.
Lots to do. Be back with tales from our adventures.

2010-11-10T08:46:00.002-05:00

Happy 235, USMC!

2010-11-07T13:58:00.001-05:00

Who wants to come play in the leaves?
They are really fun!

2010-11-04T09:14:00.003-04:00

Leaves, leaves - they are showing their beauty all around. Join Daisy and I on a walk around town.
At the Common are some remnants of Halloween - the town sponsors a scarecrow building event early each Oct. They are on display for all to enjoy.
Oak leaves almost look like leather in color and texture. Can you spot the acorn?
Maple leaves surprise me because they are not all red.
I do not know what these leaves are. But I think they look like poppies.
And then there are these leaves - not on the ground but in the grocery store.
But what really puzzles me is the product. Really? Is it so difficult to spread frosting with a knife that it now comes in an aerosol can?