Odds and Ends

A Fisherman's Prayer

2012-02-08T19:47:00.000-08:00

Dear God, please let me catch a fish

So big that even I

When boasting of it afterwards

Will have no need to lie.

--Anonymous

Yep! I'm a "Groupie! ;-)

2012-02-02T20:41:00.001-08:00

Enjoy!

It's a New Day, It's a New Month, It's a New Year ...

2012-01-09T18:15:00.000-08:00

And YOU know how I feel!

Click on the link!

This was Ronan Parke's audition April 2011

And now we can get ready for 2012.
Best Wishes!

Happy New Year to YOU - 2012!

2012-01-02T12:41:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this beautiful rendition of Auld Lang Syne by Sissel

Can you tell me the language she's using at the end of the song?? She has a BEAUTIFUL voice!!

Happy 2012 to you!!

SG

Birthday present for newly-turned 6 years old Granddaughter!

2011-09-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, it'll be a little large for her (hopefully will fit better over Fall sweaters, etc.), and her 18" doll got one, too! Fleece vests. :-)

Amazing Grace

2011-09-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

Louis Armstrong and Danny Kaye --- Oh! This is Good!!!

2011-08-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Do you remember these two entertainers? Top Quality - I miss them!

Amazing Commercial - Can You Guess What It's Advertising???

2011-08-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Dirt Devil-The Exorcist from MrPrice2U on Vimeo.

This is the way the bathroom goes...

2011-07-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

BLURBS!!

(Bathroom Lovingly Under Renovation by Shady-and-her-friends!!)

Grandchild in the tub on November 23, 2009. This is about one of the best photos I could find of the tub as it used to be: Wallpaper and mirrors on the wall, a tiled ledge on either end of the tub, with the same bright tile all over!

But things had to change...

Wallpaper and mirrors --- gone. Carpet covering the front wall of the tub --- gone.

Demolition begins with removal of the tile

Then, removal of the framework

With a little clean-up!

May 13, 2011

Getting ready to set the tub in place

The start of a (previously non-existent) closet wall

Have you ever tiled?

First time experience por moi!

July 10, 2011

Starting the back wall!

7/15/11

Acquisition of Bullnosed tile

Half the job grouted - July 17, 2011

A couple of cuts on bull-nosed tile...

Grout and tile are finished - 7/18/11!

July 15, 2011

Closet and other work

Getting into "tight places!"

7/24/11

7/25/11

Plumbers came, finished the job: affixing the hardware and turning on water!

Another Granddaughter in the tub!

There are still projects to finish - more about that later

(except to say - wall treatment, light fixtures, and painting!).

I haven't noticed anything "shady" about the project, at all! :-)

Enjoy!

2011-07-16T18:46:00.001-07:00

4th of July, 2011 - a little saga

2011-07-11T19:29:00.000-07:00

During the Spring of 2010, I was asked to create a pair of soft sculpture "scare the birds" for my parents' neighbors.
Below, you will see the result of my efforts.

However, I visited my mom last week and the poor couple was standing outdoors, looking very sad and uncomfortable. It was time for a facelift! What do you think, now?

And Now...

The couple was standing

in the neighbor's yard,

I tried so not to stare -

But my, oh my! it was hard.

They stood arm-in-arm...

and I grinned (I confess),

at he, in red ballcap;

she with her green plaid dress.

They stood there so sweetly,

right there in the yard,

and I tried not to notice...

but my! Not staring was hard!

They were busy, it seemed,

as I passed to Mom's door.

So I turned round to peek,

for a glance - just once more.

What were they doing,

that couple so sweet?

Twirling their sparklers,

as they walked toward the street!

(This photo was taken at the onset of fireworks in Keosauqua, Iowa)

"Happy 4th of July -

Independence Day fun!

Our best wishes to you,

Please pass them to everyone!"

This post property of http://yardisgreen.blogspot.com

Talented Marionette - Take a look!

2011-06-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

When the Red Red Robin Comes Bop Bop Boppin Along!

2011-06-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!! (I DID NOT TAKE THIS VIDEO) But, it's worth the watch!
Click on the Robin Photo above
to view the video!

Photo of fledgling robin taken by Terry Sohl
Found on sdakotabirds.com

You Alone Are Worthy - by Ron Kenoly

2011-05-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

click the link

You Alone Are Worthy

praises

The Power of Words

2011-04-15T20:48:00.001-07:00

Please watch this video.

A Prayer for a Cure

2011-04-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
I pray for a cure for cancer.
Amen.

Quick Draw McGraw and Cattle Battle Rattled!

2011-04-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

Enjoy - Snuffles the Dog is one of my favorite memories!!

The Fly

2011-03-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

God in His wisdom made the fly

And then forgot to tell us why.

---Ogden Nash

Morning Ritual

2011-03-06T17:25:00.000-08:00

Morning Ritual

I get up each morning
And dust off my wits,
Then pick up the paper
And read the obits.
If my name isn't there,
Then I know I'm not dead.
I eat a good breakfast
And go back to bed.

----anonymous

ha! Not when you're a gardener! Or anyone with something to do! ;-)

My Dog

2011-03-01T01:36:00.000-08:00

My Dog

My dog is such a gentle soul,
Although he's big, it's true.
He brings the paper in his mouth.
He brings the postman, too!

---- Max Fatchen

Fit as a Fiddle!

2011-02-27T20:55:00.000-08:00

Steve Martin and Gregory Hines 1981

The Dog

2011-02-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Dog

The truth I do not stretch or shove
When I state the dog is full of love.
I've also proved, by actual test,
A wet dog is the loving-est.

----- Ogden Nash

Teamwork!

2011-02-23T16:04:00.000-08:00

Pulling together has never been better exemplified! It takes about 3 1/2 minutes. Enjoy! :-)

The Stethoscope

2011-02-11T12:09:00.001-08:00

Flower Power

2011-02-10T17:18:00.000-08:00

My true love brought me flowers tonight,
and I'm all smiles and song.
I guess I'm doing something right ---
Or he's done something wrong!

----Maureen Cannon

Happy Valentine's Day!
SG

Memory - a spoof

2011-02-06T12:36:00.000-08:00

You might enjoy this little song...

I know it "spoke" to me! ;-)

Jigzone puzzle

2011-01-29T19:37:00.001-08:00

Try this puzzle!

My Blackberry Is Not Working... (YouTube)

2011-01-20T13:58:00.000-08:00

You must watch this...

Enjoy!

Postmaster: Handle with Care

2011-01-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

Our mail person lately is cause for concern.

She's pregnant as any observer can learn

By merely a glance at her contour and size.

A short leave of absence would seem very wise.

When I see her coming I'm nudged by the fear

A Special Delivery may happen right here.

----Irene Warsaw

Useful Dog Tricks

2011-01-13T09:18:00.001-08:00

I think you'll enjoy this home-made video shown on YouTube.

Christmas Dinner!

2010-12-28T06:16:00.000-08:00

Click on the movie below, and ENJOY.

Hope your Christmas was even more enjoyable than this!

Beau Poem

2010-12-27T06:33:00.000-08:00

Does anyone remember Jimmy Stewart? He was quite a fellow. A good role model.

Watchdog

2010-12-20T20:34:00.000-08:00

We bought him for a watchdog
But he mixes up his ends:
He wags his tail at strangers,
And barks at all our friends.

We got him for protection,
We thought he'd earn his keep.
But he frightens little children ---
When he isn't fast asleep.

He's very fond of hoboes
And gypsies and the like,
But nips the friendly postman
And the newsboy on his bike.

He causes feuds and lawsuits,
he keeps us tense and grim . . .
We bought him for a watchdog,
But we keep watch on him.

by Richard Armour

The Seasons in Life

2010-12-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

You might like to watch this presentation. It takes several minutes, but, if you have the time, it's well worth it.

Click on the title below:

The Seasons in Life

The Hunter

2010-12-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

The hunter crouches in his blind

'Neath camouflage of every kind,

And conjures up a quacking noise

to lend allure to his decoys.

This grown-up man, with pluck and luck,

Is hoping to outwit a duck.

----Ogden Nash

Dedicated to someone I know.

Christmas With a Capital "C"

2010-11-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to Christmas? These young men comprise a group called Go Fish. Enjoy their video/song.

On Marriage...

2010-11-25T16:40:00.000-08:00

Room Temperature

Some hoist the windows, gasp for air,
While others find it chilly.
Some turn up thermostats a hair,
While others think them silly.

Some like it cold, some like it hot,
Some freeze, while others smother.
And by some fiendish, fatal plot,
They marry one another.

---Richard Armour

graphic from clipart.com

Life is Often Too Seriously Taken

2010-11-16T17:51:00.001-08:00

So... for that reason, I'm going to post a silly poem from time-to-time. These first several will each be taken from a small booklet entitled, Lighten Up! 100 Funny Little Poems, compiled and edited by Bruce Lansky.

Slight Mistake

So I took his horse

And had it shot.

When I returned

The Prince wailed, "What?

Shot my horse?

You stupid clod!

I said to go and have it shod!"

---William Rossa Cole

Grandchild Painting #5

2010-11-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

This is an acrylic rendition of the last of my grandchildren to receive a painting/drawing of themselves for Christmas. Hope she likes it!!! :-)

Love you, A!

Gingerbread Christmas!

2010-11-10T19:05:00.000-08:00

The local Art Association board asked people to decorate gingerbread houses (already baked and assembled by some wonderful people) to be sold to local businesses as a fundraiser. Please enjoy the photos below... hopefully they've all been decorated by now! :-)

This is "mine."
Actually, a friend and I decorated it together. What do you think?

What a fun day! :-)
Are you looking forward to a special holiday season? Any special Christmas plans in the works?

Ron DeCianni

2010-09-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

Please click on this link

http://downloads.cbn.com/cbnplayer/cbnPlayer.swf?s=/vod/MW131v2_WS

Absolutely wondrously amazing.

Grandchild #5 Has His Quilt!

2010-08-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

This is the finished quilt. It was finished in the motel the night before we left for home. (This photo was taken in the motel hallway!) ha.

Getting a little closer...

Closer still . . .

I had it machine quilted. The owner of our local quilt shop has a long-arm quilter. Didn't she do a great job?? :-)

Here's my grandchild - loving his new quilt!

:-) Happy Grandma.

A Thief at Large!

2010-07-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

Be on the Look Out! :-)

Some People Went to Malvern... Others Visited at the Arts and Convention Center!

2010-05-10T07:21:00.000-07:00

Rosalie was put on Watch...

(all the photos should enlarge somewhat, if you click on them)

The rest of the group was patiently waiting...

Suddenly, we heard her familiar voice!

"Here I am! First, I thought I'd never find a parking place. (She said as she rounded the corner). Then I had to battle the crowd. (She said as she straightened her glasses.) Have you ever seen so many people? I mean, really! (She said as she settled herself into her chair.) I know I'm not the shortest person in the world, but I thought I was going to be trampled!" (She said as she glanced at each of her fellow members of the 'Gabby Garden Gals' -gardeners extraordinaire.)

All this from last club member to arrive for the First Friday Art Walk's Garden Party!

Perhaps now we can introduce ourselves properly.

Though I wasn't completely handy with the camera (and I missed a few people), here are more members of our group!

You've met Rosalie. She's the most dedicated outdoors-woman we know! She's still outside, in front of the Civic Center, meeting and greeting. However, you'll never know when she might inspire someone else to join our Garden Club!

Meet Bertha Penelope, Francine Weidermore (she's very handy with the hoe and trowel!),

Matilda Marie, Gladys,

Agnes, and Myrtle Underkirker

Of course last, but not least, are Harry and Hazel Didt heir Veedin'. They do seem very serene, but they're not the only ones that have finished their Weeding! Just ask Francine! ;-)
We had a wonderful time meeting and greeting the myriad of people streaming through, as they enjoyed the First Friday Art Walk of May 2010.

Who knows? It might have been Rosalie, but it might have been the rest of us, too! I wonder if we have a prospective new member for our Gabby Garden Gals club? :-)

A fun time was had by all!

Happy Gardening!

Getting Ready for the Big Event!

2010-05-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

Enter the Didt heir Veedin's! Harry has been volunteered as the Designated Driver of the Gabby Garden Gals' Garden Club. They will converge upon the Arts and Convention Center, Friday May 7, 2010 at 5:00 P.M.

Yes, they're having a Garden Party midst the May 2010 First Friday Art Walk. YOU will be invited to share their fun!

The Didt heir Veedin's
are smiling because they already
Did their Weeding!
:-)

Happy Gardening!

An Update on the Garden Lady Sculptures

2010-04-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

Oh! I did laugh when I opened an e-mail last night!

Three nearly completed garden ladies were looking at me, each with their creators!

I've spent a little time lately with Hazel Didt heir Veedin' (she still needs a pair of gloves), and
two scare-the-birds heads. These two heads are still "works-in-progress." Hopefully I can make one more next week.

I'm just now going to look for some wigs and a pair of pants for Harry Didt heir Veedin. After those errands, I'm going to help my friend N with her garden figure. She and I will be working on a body, arms and legs for her figure tonight.

We finished Mathilda Marie this evening. By 9:15 P.M. tonight, she was looking lovely. All she needs is a pair of little white gloves. :-)

For your information, all these Garden Ladies and friends have been invited to a Garden Party on Friday, May 7 in front of our local Civic Center. YOU will be invited to "Read all about it" after-the-fact. :-)

More to come...

You're Going to Love These Garden Ladies!

2010-04-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

I've posted on these ladies before... but thought I'd just give you a quick history that might bring you up-to-date. (If you want to view the previous post, click here.)

This post will show a bit of the evolution of our garden lady faces. We are currently involved in creating bodies for some of them... and hope to have a "public showing" in a couple of weeks. Just for fun! :-)

These couple of photos show us during our very first work session last November (2009).

C with her head.

The head in the foreground is N's.

Our second workshop in December was hilarious!
N's head shows a lot of progress.

C is busy working here! You can see quite a bit of progress.

B has just begun her head . . .

. . . as has J.

CD's head in progress - #1

This progression shows how Mr. (Harry) Didt heir Veedin's personality emerged.

Here's a trio - at left, Mrs. (Hazel) Didt heir Veedin', CD's head, and Mr. (Harry) Didt heir Veedin'.

Here are the Didt heir Veedin's with their friends!

This progression shows B's head being finished.

The ladies have gone through different hair styles and hats...
who's to say they're finished? ;-)

Our Garden Club met recently. Here we are posing with our ladies! :-)

CD's garden lady head.

B's garden lady's head.

J's Garden Lady Head

N's Garden Lady's head (no hair as yet)

And my Hazel Didt heir Veedin'

C is still working... but she'll finish in time (peer pressure!). ha.

A Progress report will be posted after the First Friday Artwalk (the first Friday in May). Get Ready!! :-)

Crazy For You Quilt - progress report!

2010-04-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

It seems as though it's been a

LONG time

since I've posted progress on my almost-three-year-old grandson's quilt!

Here we go! One more long seam this evening, and I'll take it to town tomorrow for long-arm quilting.

:-)

close-up

Individual blocks

Our Michigan grandson gets blueberry fabric (did you find it?)! His birthday is in May. He will have to wait until June to receive it, as we won't be traveling until then.

Pretty exciting, though!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Click on the Shamrock.

(Do watch this in its entirety!) It's beautiful.

Smaller than an Eye of a Needle?

2010-03-02T08:09:00.000-08:00

Just thought You'd like to see this! :-)

What Do You Think?

2010-02-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

You should check this out! Click to play the video. What do you think?

Absolutely Awesome Talent - Local Artists Present Motown Hits!

2010-01-31T16:33:00.001-08:00

First of all, here's a Youtube video of a few people as they practice ahead-of-time.

And here is a Fairfield site with some clips from the performance itself. (Both Friday and Saturday nights were sold-out. Many of the artists consented to perform again Sunday night.)

Click on these words to view the video.

One more Youtube video by a young friend that was one of the Stars of the Show! :-)
"You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman"

One more Youtube video!

And Click on these words to head to the Fairfield Arts and Convention Center where you'll be able to enjoy the last number of the show. :-)

Taylor Ware - Yodeler!

2010-01-18T09:45:00.000-08:00

Enjoy! :-)

More of Patrick Henry Hughes

2010-01-17T21:27:00.001-08:00

Patrick Henry Hughes

2010-01-17T21:17:00.000-08:00

from Handel's Messiah - Glory to God!

2009-12-25T07:13:00.000-08:00

I Look Up - I Look Down

2009-12-14T18:48:00.000-08:00

Is this a Joke?

2009-12-05T18:46:00.000-08:00

I visited with sister-in-law in Chicago area.
Her son has taken a film class.

This is their video.

Watch out for your eggs...
;-)

The Mural is Pretty Much Done

2009-12-03T16:48:00.000-08:00

We might find a couple of touch-ups to do yet, but for all practical intents and purposes, the mural on the Church nursery wall is finished.

One thing we must do is to coat the paint with (polyurethane?) so that it will be scrub-able. If we don't coat it and someone needs to wash the wall, the paint will be removed. Yipes! It makes me sad to think about the possibility!

Anyway, this is what it looks like as of this afternoon.

Those little pachyderms look tired!
Maybe that's how I was feeling this afternoon! ha.

The alligators have a couple of teeth each...

Some of the flowers were painted...

And poor Mrs. Noah is forever plagued by mice!

Do YOU have an idea of the best way to coat the mural?

Shady's T family - Grandchild #3

2009-11-20T09:08:00.001-08:00

This little fellow is now 2 1/2 years old.

I drew this from a photo taken last June during our visit.

Matted and framed... ready to be a Christmas Present.

Another Nursery Mural Update

2009-11-18T17:15:00.001-08:00

There have been a couple of painting sessions since the last update.
Thought I'd document our progress here.

Enjoy!

(Click on the photos to enlarge)

We anticipate being finished before too long...
and will probably coat the entire wall with a waterproofing of some sort.

A fun day in Des Moines with some Great Young People!

2009-11-18T15:52:00.000-08:00

I posted on my garden blog, earlier.

Here's a cute video of these fun High School-ers! :-)

Granddaughter Painting

2009-11-14T06:41:00.001-08:00

Ah! This is not one done BY a granddaughter... this is one done OF a granddaughter - by me.

I began by using watercolor colored pencils.
This was taken Jan 22, 2009.

(I may have used a flash or a sunny day)

Outdoor Summer activities had me Not working on this at all.

However, in the meantime, I did take it to our local framing shop and had it double-matted.
I then took it to my daughter's home, where she added her wonderful calligraphy.

So, to make a long story short...

... this Christmas present is a two-person labor of love!

You will notice that I've added a few final touches with an almost dry brush loaded with water!

(And the photos were taken in the dining room, no artificial light, on an overcast morning. So I lightened them via the computer. It really is on white paper with a bright, white mat.)

It goes downtown for framing today. :-)

'Crazy For You' Quilt instructions

2009-11-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

“Crazy for You”

Materials needed:

These blocks are to be made from a wonderful collection of your favorite fabrics, trims and laces! It will take approximately a total of 3 yards to make 20 blocks.

Note: Please read all the instructions before you begin to cut and sew.

Because you will be drawing the pattern on muslin, you will want to use a fabric pen that makes marks that disappear only during a washing. Work to make the marks visible on the reverse side as well.

Cutting the fabric:

Foundation piecing is easiest if you have smaller pieces with which to work. You can begin by cutting the fabric into 3” x 8” pieces. You will be able to see what works best for you. (I often sew a couple of small scraps together to make a larger piece when necessary.)

Constructing the blocks:

Step 1: It is best to work on one block at a time.

Step 2: Place the fabric on the “back” (lesser visible marks) of the block. When you sew, you will turn the block over and sew on the marks you have drawn.

Step 3: Place a piece of quilt fabric over the #1 area. It must extend over the lines by ¼”. (The fabric you have chosen for #1 will be laid with the wrong side down and the right side facing you.)

Step 4: Note the position of the #2 area. Select a piece of fabric that will cover the entire area plus the ¼” on each side (you will probably use a piece quite a bit larger, that will be trimmed after being sewn). Lay this fabric face down on top of the #1 piece, matching the edges that overlap the sewing line indicated by the arrow and a number 2. Pin the fabric below this line, out of the way of your stitching.

Step 5: Turn the block over, and stitch on the #2 line; stitching from the beginning of the line to the end. You don’t need to backstitch, but do not trim the threads too short.

Step 6: Turn the square over to the top side. Unfold the second fabric to lay over area #2 and press with your iron. You will trim the second piece of fabric to be ¼” over each side of the shape. (I fold back the muslin foundation along each sewing line (one at a time) on each side of the #2 area.

Step 7: Using a marked straight edge ruler, cut the new fabric ¼” away from each sewing line. Be very careful NOT to cut the muslin foundation block!

Step 8: After trimming all sides of piece #2, lay down the block (you now have two pieces of fabric sewn to your block) and select fabric to cover area #3. Repeat steps 4 – 8.

Step 9: You will select, sew, and trim each different fabric piece to cover your muslin foundation block, areas 4 – 13, in the same manner.

Step 10: Trim the excess fabric so that the block measures 8 ½” square. Press the block carefully.

Step 11: Sew the blocks together in the design of your choice. They can be sewn directly together, side by side to make strips. Then sew the strips together, pinning to match the corners. Or sashing (coordinating fabric) can be sewn between the blocks and strips of blocks.

Borders: If you decide to put borders on your quilt top, it is best to use two layers of fabric. That will give all your quilt the same body and weight.

Finishing: Layer the quilt with batting and backing. The quilt can be tied, and hand- or machine-quilted. For a flatter look, it is not necessary to put batting between the quilt top and the backing. Enjoy!!

Quilt Layout:

Crib --- Finished size: 36” x 44” (20 blocks sewn together without sashing) with a 2” border

Need: 1 yard of fabric for border and binding

Cut: 4 – 5” x 44” strips for border

4 – 2 ½“ x 44” strips for binding

Sew: Fold all border pieces in half to measure 2 ½” before sewing onto quilt edges. This will provide the same thickness of fabric as that of the blocks.

Twin --- Finished size: 72” x 88” (80 blocks sewn together without sashing) with a 4” border.

Need: 3 yards of fabric for border and binding

Cut: 8 – 9” x 44” strips for border

8 – 2 ½“ x 44” strips for binding

Sew: Join border strips end to end. Fold all border pieces in half to 4 ½” before sewing onto quilt edges, to provide the same thickness of fabric as that of the blocks.

Queen --- Finished size: 92” x 108” (120 blocks sewn together without sashing) and 6” border.

Need: 5 yards fabric for border and binding

Cut: 10 – 13” x 44” strips for border

10 - 2 ½” x 44” strips for binding

Sew: Join border strips end to end. Fold all border pieces in half to 6 ½” before sewing on the edges. This will provide the same thickness of fabric as that of the blocks.

NOTE: If sashing is added between blocks, adjustment as to the number of blocks needed for each quilt (and its size) must be made.

Note: I scanned the quilt block below. There are two lines around the outside edge of the block. The inside line is the stitching line and the outside is the trim line (where you cut the excess fabric from the block). Each block will be 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" (measure from one outside edge to the opposite outside edge).

New Gardener Friends

2009-10-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

I went to visit my friends for our first Fall/Winter Garden Club get-together last week.
Look at the group in my car!
:-)

(for a better peek into the car, click on the photo!)

You might have recognized Gardener Gladys and Susan Scare-the-Birds in the backseat.
Here's a post about how Gladys has helped me in the garden from July 16, 2009.

Susan has appeared in several fun posts (and outfits). Here are a couple of them "in action!" One from July 22, 2008 - a meme about Garden Whimsey, again on August 19, 2008 and one a couple of days later on August 21, 2008.

Perhaps you remember Thoroughly Modern Mona from a couple of earlier posts: Her introduction first of May 30, 2007, and her questionable gardening abilities in the second on February 15, 2008.

This photo was taken October 20 while we worked.
All three ladies observed and critiqued as we gardeners each began an attempt
at bringing to life more Gardening Friends. :-)

This past Monday, a few more of my friends gathered at my house, some of whom decided to attempt a friendship with a gardener, too. As before, Gardener Gladys, Susan Scare-the-birds, and Mona watched as we worked.

I was sorry I didn't get photos of this second group, but we'll be back at it in a couple of weeks. I'll be updating! :-)

Update on the Crazy Quilt

2009-10-26T14:16:00.001-07:00

Sixteen Blocks

And quite a number yet to go...
but it's Very Fun!
:-)

One More Twin Quilt!

2009-10-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

This one is for grandson Hayden!

It's a Crazy Quilt, but I'm doing it with a "pattern."

As you can see, the blocks are printed on muslin.

You just lay the pieces of fabric (face down) on the block, sew the seam, trim it and press. You lay the next piece face down on the previously sewn piece(s) and sew one more seam, trim it and press. Etc. :-)

I've just laid the first 8 blocks onto a piece of blue fabric to help visualize what it might look like with "sashing" between the blocks.

I hope no one expects it by Christmas...
but I'd like to make that a goal.
:-)

Nursery Mural Update

2009-10-04T15:49:00.001-07:00

Just a little more updating on Saturday...

The yellow stripe in the rainbow received its first coat. ;-)

The goldfish and bears are entering the scene... as well as the frogs and mushrooms.

Just who is painting what? We're not telling... ;-) My friend Sara and I are having a great time, though! Click here for links to other update posts.

Another Progress Report on the Church Nursery

2009-09-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

This is the first batch of photos of this Nursery Mural. The photos below were taken Monday morning after a little more work. (Actually, there have been two sessions since those first photos were taken!)

Having fun! There are still a few animals to be added. And lots of detail work. But it's coming right along! :-)

One Day's Work

2009-09-27T16:27:00.000-07:00

at my brother and sister-in-law's house last Tuesday!

While I was "up north" visiting my parents, I took a day to plant some flowers near their new home. My brother built their beautiful home by himself (with only a little help here and there).

He built a pond this summer, and I wanted to help begin a bit of landscaping nearby.
First, I'd found some bargain ($2 each!) Blue Rug Juniper plants.
After surveying the hillside, I put down a section of landscaping fabric...

...and proceeded to plant one row.

I didn't know what they might want to happen with the rest of these bushes,
so I didn't plant them.

Won't this be beautiful with a colorful array of plants and bushes?

This shows the digging process for each bush.

I'd purchased a Northern Sea Oats Grass for one corner.
After planting this, the next project was their potted small sedum plants,
a thrift, and a blue fescue at the right side (south) of the rocks.
You can see the fescue, here.

On the Northwest corner, I planted two 'Husker Red' Penstemon.
If you look Easterly, you'll see a couple of asters.

Here are their asters. I couldn't resist the "whimsy."
:-)

By the time I was able to take more photos, it had gotten quite dark!
I somewhat lightened the next two photos on my computer...

A small hosta and 'Autumn Joy' east of the asters.

Looking westerly, you'll see a few more 'Autumn Joy.'

On the west side of the pond, we also planted three clumps of 'Stella d'Oro.' It's possible I might return yet this Fall, but more likely it'll be next Spring. I can hardly wait!! ;-)

Braces On.... Braces Off! :-)

2009-09-15T12:36:00.001-07:00

Braces On....

This was taken a couple of weeks ago.

Braces Off!

This was taken yesterday, September 14, 2009, at 11:15 A.M. in the car!

Shiny smile... wearing the plastic retainers.

Two great smiles... (mine is still wearing the plastic!)

This is a great friend
who also happens to be my neighbor.
:-)

Saturday Night at the Sondheim Theater

2009-09-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

We have a Beautiful Theater/Civic Center that opened nearly two years ago.
I am constantly amazed at the number of wonderful opportnities there are.

The following was an evening to Support the Sondheim.
Local and area talent provided the entertainment "free gratis."
The price of the tickets went directly to help support the theater.

The first video is of the Fairfield Dixieland Band. They began playing in 1964.
Two charter members remain.
Please accept my apology for the poor quality of this video.

(My first experience with my new camera. The other two videos are much better.)

Looking for My Car Keys - from YouTube

2009-09-09T20:15:00.000-07:00

Looking for my car keys by....Millsap....I think.... Ok not too sure who this is but its slightly amusing...
enjoy

Note: I do not own the rights to the video or the song, all rights belong to the persepective owners. :}

Church Nursery Mural Progress

2009-09-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

They painted the nursery walls bright colors!

This shows our progress to date.
Enjoy! (We are!) :-)

If you click on the photos, they should enlarge somewhat.

Sarah and I are having a fun time. Perhaps we should slow down a bit? ha.

Laminin

2009-08-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

My New Vocabulary Word!

I cannot keep this to myself. Please view the entire piece.

Mrs. Hughes

2009-08-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Another Crazy Video!
Enjoy!

Amusing Muse

2009-08-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

I put the serious "Sisters" You-tube video on my Garden Page Muse Post. I just couldn't resist adding this! Enjoy!! :-)

Chocolate Calculator

2009-07-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

I received this via an e-mail "forward." Thanks, Dixie.

:-)

Have Fun!

1. First of all, pick the number of times a week that you would most like to enjoy eating chocolate (more than once but less than 10).

2. Multiply this number by 2. (Be bold!)

3. Add 5.

4. Multiply it by 50 - I'll wait while you get the calculator! ;-)

5. If you have already had your birthday this year, add 1759. If you haven't, add 1758.

6. Now subtract the four-digit number of the year of your birth.

7. You should now have a three-digit number. The first digit of this number was your original number (the number of times you would like to consume chocolate per week).

The next two numbers indicate your age! (Yes - your age!) ;-)

I've been told that this year (2009) is the only time this will work.

(If you are inspired, perhaps you can tell if this is a true fact or not.)

Time for Another Update - Adding Critters

2009-06-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

The addition of painted turtles and one dragonfly.

This dragonfly was already here, but do you see the little peeper?

Another dragonfly

This little dragonfly was already here, as was the bullfrog and crane.
I've worked a bit on the iris and the crane.
I must have not gotten a photo of the additional dragonfly I added.

Updated Photos

2009-06-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken (in the evening, poor lighting) on July 11th.

This was taken in the evening of July 12th.

One More Update

2009-06-08T19:29:00.001-07:00

I added the beginning of "depth" on the right side of the panel tonight.
:-)

A Painting for Our Nature Center

2009-05-26T07:05:00.001-07:00

I was asked to paint a panel for the "aquatic room" of our local Nature Center. These first photos were taken May 15, 2009. The panel is 24" x 48" long. The photos might suffer a little at the hands of the photographer... ;-) Each one enlarges a bit with a "click" of the mouse.

The next photos were taken this morning, May 25, 2009.

I'll keep you posted on the progress. :-)

Geoffrey Gallante - amazing talent!

2009-05-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

At YouTube, it states that he is 8 years old and weighs 50 pounds.

The Basement Project!

2009-05-05T19:34:00.001-07:00

Have you ever felt as though you'd like to be
one of those interior designers on HGTV?
They always travel with at least one carpenter, an electrician,
painters, gardeners, etc.

Well... this is as close as I could get!

We have a friend who is a carpenter.
He and his cohort came to our house
while I was gone last Friday (May 1).

When I came home Saturday evening, the new patio door was in!

(And we still had the steel door in place.)

This photo was taken April 16, 2009.
You can see the existing steel door.They arrived again Monday, May 4 ... Ready to Work!

And work they did!

Goodbye old doorway!

Hello little window!

It's looking more finished all the time!

The photo below shows the progress after they left for the day!

Nearly done... I will work on the walls.

Finishing work on the door frame and etc.
that took place Monday.

I made a hurried trip to a lumber store about 30+ miles away
to pick up floor tile.

Today (Tuesday), our carpenter friend laid the tile.
It's resting tonight.

Tomorrow he will add the grout and hardwire a new outdoor light fixture.

I'll post a couple more photos tomorrow.

Move over Candace Olson!

Oh! I am so happy!

:-)

King's Firecrackers!

2009-04-24T10:24:00.000-07:00

King's Firecrackers

This is a half-time performance at a
USNA vs West Point Basketball game.

It's not a short video, but it's worth watching in its entirety!
Enjoy!

Why Didn't I Continue My Piano Lessons???

2009-04-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

I knew I'd be sorry one day!

This video was taken in the lobby at Mayo Clinic.

Happy Birthday Cindy!

2009-04-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

Click on any of the photos - some enlarge more than others.

Hi Cindy,
(Wish I'd written the verse!)

These Birthday greetings are wished
Most affectionately your way
For someone who’s very nice
Deserves an extra special day,
So here’s wishing every happiness
Today, especially for you,
With lots of your favourite things
In the year ahead too!

Happy Birthday

The photos are out of my yard!

Spring is Springing,

the birds are singing

and we are glad you're home!

Happy Day!

Kathy

Knit and Crochet for a Cause

2009-03-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

In January, several friends and I met to look for specific ways we could help others through knitting and/or crocheting. We have met once-a-month to gather for fun, encouragement, and mutual admiration! ;-)

We chose two specific projects this year... The Preemie Project (supporting the preemies cared for at the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City) and Project Linus. The Preemie Project can use such things as little blankets, hats, burial gowns; all babies from the tiniest size to newborn size. Project Linus provides blankets to young people ages 0 to 18 years. Neither has specifically recommended projects, but do have favorite patterns. These can be found on-line.

Our first shipment to The Preemie Project was made last Friday, February 27. Here are photos of what was taken.

One member of our original group
has crocheted and knitted little blankets
for this cause for several years.

The majority of our blankets were of her creation.

This blue blanket and hat were crocheted by
someone who hadn't crocheted for a number of years.
Didn't she make a wonderful set?

These three little beauties were crocheted by a fellow
that didn't want to join us on our monthly meeting dates.
Yes, this is a "fellow" that probably feels
he'd be out of place at our meetings,
but he doesn't know how much we appreciate him!
:-)

This is most of the collection.
Guess who made all the little "standing hats?"
Me! :-)

This is a photo of my first round of mini-hats.
I'd been visiting my parents after Christmas.
The fruit will give you an idea of the size of the hats.

I couldn't resist!
And I'm now working on a set of little blue hats.

Please be watching for another post in a month or so.

Grandma's Hands

2009-03-02T18:56:00.000-08:00

I must admit that this is not my story.
I received this via an e-mail today.
I must share it.

Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.

When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK

Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear voice strong.

'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,' I explained to her.

'Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. 'I mean really looked at your hands?'

I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making.

Grandma smiled and related this story:

'Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled, and weak, have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.

'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.

They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.

'They have been dirty, scraped and raw , swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.

They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse.

'They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.

They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well, these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

'These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.

But more importantly, it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ.'

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home.

When my hands are hurt or sore, or when I stroke the face of my children and husband, I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God

I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

Why Dads Buy a Wii

2009-02-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

Are you in need of a belly laugh?
(click the photo - which was taken from U-tube)

Get Back Up

2009-02-13T08:24:00.000-08:00

Please Click Here

You will not be untouched by this person's life.

Born Again American

2009-02-05T05:48:00.000-08:00

Very Stirring Site.

Check out this link! Just click on these words.

(Make sure your sound is turned on!)

Always Check Your Child's Homework

2009-01-29T09:10:00.000-08:00

After first receiving a picture drawn by one of her students,
here's the note the teacher received the following day.

"Dear Mrs. Jones,

I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an
exotic dancer.  I work at Home Depot and I told my daughter
how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told
her we sold out every single shovel we had, and then I found
one more in the back room, and that several people were
fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me
dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the
last snow shovel we had at Home Depot.  From now on I will
remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she
turns it in.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Smith"

GIRLS IN MY CIRCLE

2009-01-23T14:52:00.000-08:00

When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
and then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up, you will be shown the best, in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your partner.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your parents.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.

One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
another, 'Let's fight together, '
another, 'Let's walk away together.'

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
another your shoe fetish,
another your love for movies,
another will be with you in your season of confusion,
another will be your clarifier,
another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
on whatever the occasion,
on whatever the day,
or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ....
those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman,
but for many, it's wrapped up in several...
one from 6th grade,
one from high school,
some from the college years,
a couple from old jobs,
on some days your mother,
on some days your neighbor,
on others, your sisters, cousins,
and on some days, your daughters.
So, your assignment - and please accept it -
is to acknowlege your friends and tell them how special they are!
:-)

Cardboard Testimony

2009-01-14T19:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-01T17:01:00.000-08:00

Click Here for 2009 New Year Wishes

Jigzone - A Puzzle A Day

2008-12-12T19:18:00.000-08:00

Here's another puzzle for you to try! :-)

I'm So Excited! (And Honored!)

2008-12-01T17:44:00.000-08:00

Remember last Summer when I painted a couple of banners for our city?
(As did 27 local artists)

Here's the press release I just received by e-mail:

Selected Fairfield Street Banners have now been made into full color postcards. The Original Art Banner project "Celebrate Fairfield - A Cultural Garden" by the Fairfield Beautification Commission and the Fairfield Art Association earlier this summer featured 27 local artists. The public was invited to vote for their favorite banners and that input along with reproducing quality and local subject, decided the winning postcards. It was first planned to produce only 6 designs, but selection was very hard due to all the fantastic designs and 8 ended up being selected.

The artists and their banners that have been made into postcards are: "Fairfield Bandstand" by Susan Noll Thicke, "Leapfrog Sculpture" by (me - "Shady" Kathy T), "Victorian House" by Cindy Travers, "Fairfield Cloudscape" by John Preston, "Country Road" by Bonnie Jaye, "Jefferson County Cow" by Elaine Duncan, "Sunshine & Golden Domes" by Ann Shook,and "Courthouse Cow" by Cindy Travers. Photos of the banners were taken by Julie Johnston and transferred to postcard format by Barb McMahon.

Hot off the press, these eight colorful Banner Design Postcards will be available for purchase at this Friday December 5 Art Walk, at the Fairfield Art Association Studio Sales Gallery from 6- 9 pm. Postcards can be bought in ribbon packaged bundles of 8, which includes one of each design for $6, or individually for $1 each. Proceeds from the sales will be jointly shared by Beautification & Art Association for their many community projects. Limited postcards have been printed. The Fairfield Banners have been so popular, it is being discussed how to do more - we just need to locate more banners to re-cycle!

Again.... I am so honored and Thrilled! :-) Just thought you might like to know!

Thanksgiving? Family Secrets

2008-11-29T10:29:00.001-08:00

Click on this to be able to read it! Thanks Aunt MEA! :-)

2008-11-12T12:50:00.000-08:00

These scarves were sent to Kathryn of Plant Whatever Brings You Joy. This is what she called her "Scarf Initiative." Please follow the three links to read her posts. It was a joy to be able to participate! Post #1, Post #2, and Post #3.

My scarf - you can click on any photo to enlarge it.

A "study in contrasts"

A close-up