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Jun 4 2018

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

I realize it’s been a while since I last blogged.  During that time, I’ve actually written several partial posts without managing to finish.  I’ll attempt to actually finish this one!

As always, I’ve stayed busy doing this and that in addition to the normal chores of life.  I simply can’t sit idle as I watch movies or listen to music.  The hands must be busy!  As winter turned to spring, I knitted a pair of sock for myself.  This is a first!  Before they were finished, it became too warm to wear them but I assume cold weather will return again.  These socks were knitted with Knit Picks Felici yarn in colorway Captain Nemo.  I used a slightly altered version of Shireen pattern I’ve used in the past.  It’s an easy knit.

I also made some socks for a friend.  Because his feet are narrow, I decided to make 2×2 ribbed socks from cuff to toe (no pattern).  They will stretch to custom fit his feet.  I used Lang Jawoll in a marl gray and red self striping (902.0059) yarn.  The toes are made with Valley Huntington yarn in colorway Light Gray Heather.

I am now officially burned out of knitting socks (for now).  Time to make something else.

I’ve begun knitting another Sockhead Slouch Hat.  I knit over half of it but didn’t like how it was turning out so ripped it out and started again.  I’m only a little over an inch into it so it will be a while before completion (if ever!).  My heart just isn’t into knitting presently which I think is mostly influenced by hot weather… and boy, it’s HOT!

Also lately, I gave some thought to rug making again.  The last two were made from cutting up DH’s tshirts.  I gave one to Jacob and kept one for myself.  I really like it a lot!  It made me think of making rugs using my own tshirt fabric.  Because I make my own casual cotton knit shirts, I have a 25 year collection of leftover scraps.  I dug them all out and was surprised to discover a small mountain of fabric.  It’s definitely time to reduce the pile!

I found some muslin to cut and warp the frame.  I then dove into the cotton knit fabric and cut literally hundreds of strips for twining the rug.  After two weeks, I had a lovely, snugly, absorbent rug.  When I mentioned it to Jacob, he quickly hinted how much he would love to have another rug.  Since I already have 3, this one will go to him.  After all, that mountain of fabric has diminished very little.  Upon finishing his, I immediately warped the frame again and began another.  It’s currently over half finished.  Sadly, the mountain is only dented so I hope to continue making rugs.  There is no shortage of places to put them or people who want them!

My century+ old magnolia tree is in full bloom and with this winter and spring rains, it’s absolutely loaded with blossoms.  I go out each morning before dew has dried to smell the wonderful fragrance of their lemony perfume.  When I can reach one, I bring it into the house to enjoy all day.  So, so beautiful!

Though I try and distract myself, this is the hardest time of the year for me as the two-year anniversary of DH’s death approaches.  I think of him often and cry a few more tears.  The house is just too damned empty and quiet!  When I get too melancholy,  I crank the lawnmower and work it out.  There’s always grass to mow!

Shirl

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Categories: Family, Knitting, Rug Making, Sewing, Weather 

Nov 1 2017

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

It’s hard to fathom how quickly the year has passed.  Our summer weather has chilled and the holidays are nearly upon us.  They feel even more impending after baking a turkey last week.  It has been in the freezer for a while and I decided it should be cooked (even if only for the dogs!) before purchasing more.

As it turns out, the turkey was DEEEElicious!  I roasted it unstuffed and made dressing on the stove top (which included giblets, boiled eggs, black olives, mushrooms, celery and juice from the turkey).  Even the dressing was wonderful.  I ate it for a couple of days and fed the rest to the dogs.  We all enjoyed it very much and I plan to purchase another small turkey or two soon.

I’ve continued filling my spare time with sewing and knitting.  I’ve finished the second blouse (using the same pattern as previously posted) but did not photograph it.  I’ve worn it and received compliments but it’s nothing to cause excitement.  Don’t expect to see me wearing it on the cover of Vogue!

Recently, my microwave died.  When I mentioned it to Jacob (who was packing for a visit here), he offered to pick a new one up on his way.  I took him up on his offer but before leaving his house, he talked to his best friend and mentioned my needing a new microwave.  The friend has just moved and his new digs included a microwave.  He had recently purchased a new one which he no longer needs so he offered it.  I tried paying him but he said, “Merry Christmas”.  It’s a nice one!

To offer a little token of my appreciation, I knitted him a Sockhead Slouch Hat.  It was made using Knit Pick’s Painted Stroll sock-weight yarn in Renaissance colorway (modeled here placed over a bowl atop a flashlight).  I hope he enjoys it!  I’ll send it home with Jacob upon his next visit.

I also managed to finish another pair of socks for Jake.  Because I’ve been distracted by other projects, these socks took 6 weeks to complete (twice as long as usual).  The yarn came from Witch Candy on Etsy in the colorway Oil Slick.  I love this yarn!  The pattern is a free one from Ravelry called Simply Skyp which I’ve made before.  I like them!

I finally got the results from my skin biopsies yesterday.  As I suspected, they are basal cell carcinoma which is great news.  One of the lesions is about the size of a dime.  The Ear, Nose and Throat Plastic Surgeon wanted to remove it and cover the area with a skin graft until she noticed on my file that I’m allergic to epinephrine.  Unfortunately, this eliminates the possibility of a skin graft and she feels the lesion is too large to stitch shut or leave open.  I’m now being referred to a dermatologist in Tyler, where a neurologist and endocrinologist will be available if any complications arise.  It is the ENT’s opinion the dermatologist will literally nibble away the lesion (no skin graft) and stitch it shut.   I’ll have a noticeable scar but it matters not to me.  My ‘pretty days’ are long over.  The other much smaller lesion will be removed with little more than what was already done with the biopsy.  I’m currently waiting to hear from the dermatologist and don’t expect anything to happen until next week or later.  In the meantime, I’ll get a flu shot and prepare for the upcoming procedure.

My fingers are crossed Jake will be able to come down for a visit soon.  We had hoped he could come last week but something went out on his truck which required his immediate attention.  He’s hoping to take a couple of days off work so we have a long weekend together.  I’m hopeful!

May the remainder of your week and coming weekend be filled with the joy of doing what you love.

Shirl

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Categories: Cooking, Family, Knitting, Sewing 

Sep 22 2017

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

As scheduled, I returned to see my doctor.  He changed some of my medications and examined the lesion in front of my ear.  After asking lots of questions and prescribing an antibiotic, he said a lymph node was also swollen and since it is affecting my hearing, he referred me to an otorhinolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat surgeon).  Unfortunately, she may be the busiest doctor around because even with a possible cancer referral, the first available appointment is weeks away.  I’m on stand-by in case she has a cancellation.  I don’t like having time to think about it but it does give me an opportunity to make plans.

Jacob has already said he would be here for whatever it takes as long as it takes.  I love that I can count on him for physical and emotional support.  He will also take care of my dogs and the business if I am incapacitated.  It’s a total head scratcher how I ended up with such a wonderful son but I’m thankful every day!

I’ve been trying to stay distracted and busy. 

The knitted baby blanket is finally washed, blocked, boxed and wrapped along with the knitted hat for the baby shower I couldn’t force myself to attend.  She was expecting a large crowd in her small home and the last thing I wanted was to be in close proximity with lots of folks I don’t know.  Small talk is not my expertise!  Since the baby isn’t due for 8 weeks, I’ll deliver the gift in plenty of time.

I’ve also done a little more sewing but nothing finished to show.  After the warm-weather blouse I’m currently making, I hope to sew a few pieces for cooler weather.  As they say on Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming”.

I’ve also been researching patterns and yarn in hopes of knitting a cardigan for myself.  Extremely cold weather is rare in my area so I prefer to wear sweaters instead of coats.  Thus far, I haven’t decided on ‘the perfect pattern’ or yarn I can afford.  The search will continue.

As usual, I have another pair of socks on the needles and work on them at night while watching videos.  They are progressing slowly.

Another weekend is here and I truly hope yours is fun, restful and filled with love.

Shirl

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Categories: Family, Knitting, Sewing 

Sep 7 2017

By shirlsu 2 comments (comments closed)  

I’ve spent the last week or so very happy I don’t still live in Houston.  There are things I truly miss about living in a sizeable city (pizza delivery, big grocery stores, garage/yard sales, etc.) but since leaving there nearly 25 years ago, the flooding issue has gotten so much worse.  Add that to the record-breaking rainfall spawned by Hurricane Harvey and I can only feel bad for old friends still there while feeling thankful I’m not dealing with insurance companies and contractors.  I’ll happily live without pizza delivery!

We did experience 5 days of rain from the storm but I’m at the top of a big sandy hill so I didn’t see as much as a puddle here.  The rain was mostly slow and steady accompanied by a light breeze offering me the perfect excuse to stay inside, knit and sew.  The storm also helped eliminate the 100°+ daily outdoor temperatures.  My air conditioners, electric bill and wallet are eternally happy for the break!

While the rains fell, I finished knitting a baby blanket for my neighbor.  I haven’t blocked it yet so no picture at this time.  I also knitted this little hat from leftover sock yarn.  The pattern was free from Redheart.  I was fascinated with how quickly baby items are made.  This was a one day, spare time effort and hopefully will be useful for this autumn baby.

I finally managed to finish another pair of socks for Jake.  These seemed to take forever because of lots of interruptions and the fact that I dropped a size on the needles making the socks a little smaller and more densely knit (more stitches = more time).  The pattern is ‘A Nice Ribbed Sock’ by Glenna C.  The yarn is from A Guy Two Needles Yarn in colorway Mardi Gras.  I was a little surprised the yarn didn’t pool but pretty thankful there are no big puddles of pink.  The toes were knitted with Knit Picks Stroll fingering yarn in black.

Needless to say, I’ve already started another pair of socks; these in NEON colors!  They will be … uhh … wild!!

I took the time this week to inspect my closet and analyze my clothing situation.  I’ve decided many of my tops are looking limp and dismal.  I’ll take the decent ones and downgrade them to everyday wear and make a few new things.  The heavens know I have plenty of stash fabric on hand to cut and sew.

The first top was made of batik fabric.  I dearly love batik because of the hand dyed interesting artistic designs, color combinations and that they are woven more densely, allowing for opaque coverage.  The pattern I used is McCall’s M5640.  I’ve sewn this pattern many times for tops, nightgowns and maxi lounge gowns.  It’s so versatile.  The top offers loose, modest coverage even on days when bra wearing is too painful (darned surgical scars!). 

Fabric has already been selected to make two more tops and a nightgown from this pattern.

After a quick doctor’s office visit with his PA and having blood drawn, I’ve been asked to return next week (never a good sign).  I had shown the Physician’s Assistant a lesion near my ear that is lingering and doesn’t seem to want to heal.  After being told to return, I’ve searched the Net and found photos of what appears to be the exact same lesion.  I’ve diagnosed myself (always a dangerous thing) with squamous cells carcinoma.  When caught early, it’s pretty harmless but because it’s located in a place I can’t see (and I live alone), I’ve ignored it longer than I probably should.  It is already affecting my hearing (sounds like the ear is stuffed with cotton).  Needless to say, I’m not looking forward to seeing the doc next week for his recommendations.  If it has advanced, I could be looking at not only surgery to remove it but chemo to treat it.  UGH!

Oh well, I’ve survived 2 other cancer diagnoses and treatments so I expect to survive this one too.  It’s a good thing I’m TOUGH!

Have a great week and those in the paths of storms, know my thoughts are with you.

Shirl

2 comments

Categories: Knitting, Sewing, Weather 

Nov 30 2016

By shirlsu 2 comments (comments closed)  

Thanksgiving has come and gone and I spent it with my dogs (they’re lonesome too).  In looking ahead to a long string of holidays and birthdays, I get the feeling each is a hill to conquer.  Eventually, I hope being alone feels more natural and the hills less steep.  In the meantime, I’ll keep busy and concentrate on TODAY.

The holiday wasn’t too bad and I cooked and feasted as usual.  I baked turkey wings and drumsticks, sweet potatoes and the very last cream peas stashed in the freezer.  With bits of bacon and plenty of onion, those peas were wonderful!  The entire meal was delicious and I made plenty to provide for days of leftovers!  YUM!

To fill the evenings, I’ve continued knitting and made this turquoise and shades of grey long scarf.  It finished at 87″ x 5 ½” with an additional 3″ fringe.  I love the super-long length as it provides for multiple ways of wearing it.  It can be worn as shown in the picture, doubled around the neck or doubled with the ends drawn through.  I will be gifting it and hope the recipient enjoys it.

When the scarf was finished, I decided to use some yarn I’ve had for many years and make some leg warmers for myself.  I like wearing them under my boot cut jeans for added warmth in my chilly house.  I found a pattern that would offer me more practice of knitting in the round using the magic loop method.

The yarn is fairly small and the needles required were smaller than I’m accustomed to so the progress was really slow.  After knitting a lot on the first leg warmer, I remembered that I already own some nice ones.   I dug them out, tried them on and decided I truly don’t need another pair, especially ones taking most-of-forever to knit.  Though the first skein of yarn was almost used, I ripped it all out.  I’ll find something else to knit with the yarn.

I’ve also done some VERY little sewing this week  From scrap fleece, I’ve cut out a self-drafted long-sleeved top with a kangaroo pocket.  I had hoped to include a hood but didn’t have enough fabric.  I managed to get half of it sewn before I ran out of enthusiasm.  Maybe when the house gets colder, I’ll be inspired to finish stitching it.  The temperature is dropping tonight so we shall see!

I hope the rest of your week is joyous!

Shirl

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Categories: Cooking, Knitting, Pets, Sewing 

Oct 4 2016

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

Since the weather here in East Texas has cooled, I’ve been outside enjoying it.  I’ve spent several days mowing near the house.  I really wish I could mow it all (just less than 6 acres) but all I have is a push-type mower and am the sad owner of ruptured and spun spinal disks.  I don’t dare get back on a riding mower or tractor.

Though it sometimes doesn’t seem worth it, I’ve continued cooking for myself most days.  On other days, I eat leftovers (which I don’t mind).  I also cook for the spoiled brats dogs.  This week, they shared 10 lbs. of roasted chicken with me.  Later, we’ll eat pulled pork.  My dogs eat better than most but I only feed them meals that cost less than dog food!

I’ve devoted most of my evening attention to finishing the rug using DH Bob’s old t-shirts.  I completed it this afternoon and am anxious to present it to DS Jacob.  I only have a few t-shirts left but combining them with many of my own that I don’t wear, I should have enough to make another rug for myself.

After racking my brain for a use for DH’s many white athletic socks, I’ve decided to cut them up to use for stuffing dog beds.  My critters like their current beds in my office but sleep on thin rugs in my bedroom at night.  With winter coming, I know they would appreciate having warm, snuggly nighttime beds.  What other use do I have for a huge laundry basket stuffed full of socks?  Wish I could find a clever use for men’s underwear!

Shirl

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Categories: Cooking, Rug Making, Sewing 

Sep 5 2016

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

Today is Labor Day in the U.S. and the last holiday of summer.

It’s also the time of year the millipedes come out in amazing numbers.  If they would stay outside, I wouldn’t notice or mind but they’re finding their way into the house, which drives me nuts (I know, short trip!).  I have probably killed over 100 of them today alone, making it necessary to sweep the floors AGAIN!  I’ve tried spraying them with a mild insecticide to no avail.  They don’t even drown easily!  My only choice is to continue to step on them and sweep them up.  I am thankful they don’t require feeding and don’t sting or bite.

I’ve managed to accomplish several things over the last few days.  I finished making Halloween pillowcases.  This set is made with black bats on white for the body and bright dancing skeletons on black for the edge separated by a narrow solid orange flange.  My homemade pillowcases include French seams so no raw edges will unravel with wear.  I hope to find more holiday fabric on sale to make more fun pillowcases for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter.  I already have some batik yardage I plan to use too.  I love having new pillowcases!

I’ve continued sorting DH’s clothes but have found no area charity where I wish to donate.  If my donations do not benefit the needy but puts more money into a corporate CEO’s pocket, no thanks!  Instead, I am removing and saving the buttons and using the fabric to make dog beds.  The 100% cotton fabric will be added to my fabric stash.

As I’ve pulled shirts from the closet and separated them into piles of keepers and cutters, I am amazed at how many there are.  I’ve clipped until my back hurts every day and still have a huge stack to go.   Pictured is a container of buttons I’ve removed from many of the shirts.  There are hundreds of them!  Most of these are made of coconut shells with a light side and a dark side from rayon and silk Hawaiian-style shirts.  I plan to add a number of these to my own button stash and will share the rest with online friends who also make men’s shirts. I certainly hope to finish this clipping chore SOON as I can think of much ‘funner’ things to do!  Honestly though, I’m totally enjoying spreading out into the newly created space in the closet.  Yippee!  Mine, all mine!!

I’ve continued working on DH’s memorial quilt.  The hand quilting is finished and a red/black print binding has been machine applied.  I’m in the process of hand stitching the binding down.  I haven’t designed a label yet and hope to be inspired by the time the binding is complete.  Having recently lost my printer to a lightning storm, the task will be more challenging.  I’ve included a picture to show how much I tend to mark my quilts as I work.  Because I use Crayola® Ultra-Clean Washable Markers, all the marks wash away with simple hand washing using laundry powder and a little OxiClean®.

It’s time to get into the kitchen and make English muffins.  I’ve eaten the last of the sliced bread and know I’ll want something for breakfast tomorrow.  Ham, egg and cheese McMuffins sound yummy!

Have a terrific week!

Shirl

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Categories: Family, Quilting, Sewing 

Aug 19 2016

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

I didn’t realize it has been over a SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURESmonth since my last post.  I wish I had more to report of things that have kept me busy but I’m either getting incredibly lazy or some activities take a big toll on this aging body.  It seems just going to the grocery store or running a few errands wipes me out for an entire day.  What is going on with this dropping energy level??!

In the past month, I have continued to reduce the piles of stuff collected by DH.  Today, I plan to sort his button-up shirts.  He has scores of them sent to him by his Floridian brother.  These are all Hawaiian print shirts so few area men are interested in receiving them.  I will donate the rayon and silk shirts to charity while de-boning the cotton ones and saving the fabric for quilts.  There are many dozens so the task is daunting.  A little work each day will finally see the job complete.  Bob’s old t-shirts will eventually become bathroom rugs for DS Jacob and myself.  They will be so useful, soft, colorful and absorbent and will be a nice keepsakes… remembrance rugs?.

I’ve also managed to do a little sewing this month.  First, I made a new cotton knit (interlock) nightgown using McCall’s M5640 pattern.  I used the dress length pattern and added 2″ wide gathered lace between the front yoke and skirt and lettuce-edged the sleeves. I also lengthened the pattern as I have noticed some cotton knit fabric continues to shrink a little with each washing. I’ve made this pattern many times and love the fit and comfort of each garment.  This has become my favorite and has already received several washings.  It’s a keeper!

I have several more cotton knit fabrics in the stash I intend to use to make more of these.  I particularly like that with the interfacing in the yoke, the gown doesn’t bunch up at my neck during the night as often SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTUREShappens with t-shirt type necklines.

After failing to resist a super sale of cotton fabric from Fabric Mart (my current favorite online fabric store), I received two cotton woven chunks with the intention of making modest lounging clothes for wearing after evening bath time and before bedtime.  Now that I’m enjoying more visitors and sitting up late and talking, I needed something comfy and decent to slip into.

Since the McCall’s pattern was still on my cutting table and it fits so well, I used it again, this time radically lengthening the skirt to maxi length, eliminating the lace, adding side inseam pockets and roll hemming the sleeves.  I finished it just in time for DS Jacob and his lady’s arrival.  I was so happy with the skirt length… it just touches the tops of my feet when I walk.  Perfect!  The woven cotton fabric is high quality and I expect to get years of use from this garment.  I absolutely love it!

In the same Fabric Mart delivery, I received another woven cotton print; this one is an aqua modern print that I plan to make into a similar maxi dress.  I will wear them often.  I’m waiting for another sale and plan to order heavier fabric to make a warmer version with long sleeves to wear during cooler weather.

Speaking of cooler weather, it has moved into our area.  Along with rain each day, we’re enjoying temperatures in the mid to high 80’s.  That is so welcome after suffering a dry summer with daily temperatures in the 100’s!  Just wish the first rain that moved through had displayed less lightning.  It got us good, taking out much wireless Internet equipment, LED light bulbs and a printer!  Things could have been so much worse and for that I am grateful.  The lower air conditioning costs as resulting from the cooler weather will help make up for the replacement costs… at least that’s what I’m telling myself!

The cooler weather has made me think of upcoming holidays.  One of my favorites is Halloween.  With enjoying additional overnight guests, I noticed my pillowcases are limp and shabby so I decided to shop through my fabric stash and found some ‘spooky’ fabric for making Halloween pillowcases.  I’ve cut two pair and finished sewing one.  These are made of two printsSAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES (black and white spiderweb batik and white quilting fabric printed with black bats).  I also included a narrow orange flange for a zing of color.  I like them so much, they are on my bed (a little early for Halloween!).

That’s about it for now.  If I don’t start dealing with Bob’s shirts the job will never get done.  Frankly, I’m looking forward to having use of the entire big closet…. mo’ room for mo’ stuff!

Have a great weekend!

Shirl

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Categories: Family, Sewing 

May 30 2016

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

Lately, things have been quiet on the blog but not so here at home.  In fact, when considering doctors, hospitals and our nutzoid weather, things have hedged on being crazy!

DH was approved for participating in a study at MD Anderson and was instructed to show up early Sunday, May 15 for pre-treatment tests.  He had to leave here at 4 a.m. to arrive on time.

After several tests and during an EKG, DH mentioned experiencing pains in his upper chest near his shoulder.  The techs immediately called an ambulance to transport him from the Clinic side of the complex to the Emergency Room.  There he stayed for several hours, hooked to a heart monitor and EKG.  It was deemed he was not experiencing a heart attack and was released.  With traffic backed up for 50+ miles because of a double fatality accident, DH did not arrive back home until after 1 a.m.  It was certainly a LONG day for a guy feeling less than 100%.

The next day (Monday) DH’s oncologist got wind of the Emergency Room visit and test results.  She contacted DH and insisted he return to the ER as blood clots are not unusual for folks having received large amounts of chemotherapy (as DH has).  She had contacted the ER and chewed ass, instructing them of the blood clot possibility and the immediate need for a CAT scan.  Unfortunately, this meant Bob had another 3 hour drive in less than optimal conditions.  Though I offered to drive him, he was determined to arrive on his own and return home that evening.

As it turns out, Bob’s plans didn’t pan out.  He was run through a battery of tests by the ER physicians (amazing what an ass chewing can cause) and Bob was in the hospital until the following Sunday when he insisted on coming home.

On Monday, DH was contacted by an MDA’s heart physician, instructing Bob needed a stent procedure to be performed at Hermann Hospital on Wednesday.  Bob was to check in at 7 a.m. to be prepped for the procedure.  Yep, you guessed it…. another EARLY morning, 3 hour drive to Houston!!!

Our son and his lady were already planning an extended visit over Memorial Day weekend.  They altered their plans a bit, took a few extra days off and arrived late Tuesday night to accompany Bob to the hospital.  Bob was to stay overnight so the kids decided to get a room near the hospital to avoid an additional round trip to Houston.

While all of this was going on, I stayed home and held down the fort with our small business, tended the garden and cared for our critters, all during epic rains, round after round of lightning storms, hail and area tornadoes.  Thankfully, the worst of the weather skirted us and other than being very soggy, we were unscathed.

While everyone was away, I decided we would need lots of food for the returning troops so I thawed a small turkey and a big brisket.  On Saturday, Bob and Jake slow-smoked both and with the addition of garlic mashed potatoes and au jus flavored with diced onions, we ate until we were silly!  There was plenty left to share with the kids and freeze for quick, easy meals later.

The kids left for home mid-day yesterday.  The houseSAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES is now too quiet and I have unspent energy.  I decided to harvest the first row of bell peppers and process them for the freezer.  I also picked enough zucchini squash for a big side dish for dinner tonight and a few Cubanelle peppers to cook with freshly picked yellow squash tomorrow.  I saw many jalapeño peppers to harvest in the next few days.  All these peppers will add so much flavor to future meals.

I’ve continued to work on the denim rug and am very close to finishing.  I’ve also done a little sewing, making comfy shorts for Jacob and hemming some shorts for myself.

Bob continues to feel better each day and is now spending time out of bed and watching videos.  His coloring is better too.  As soon as his heart doctor releases him, he will start his new cancer treatment…. more weekly trips to Houston!

Shirl

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Categories: Family, Rug Making, Sewing, veggie gardening, Weather 

Dec 31 2015

By shirlsu 0 comments (comments closed)  

At the closing of 2015, I can’t help but look back at the highs and lows the year has brought to our home and hearts.

At the top of the list of blessings is our son’s success in his life.  Though his job is often stressful, he seems overall happy and healthy.  We are tremendously proud.

Our most difficult struggle came with DH Bob’s cancer diagnosis.  After two surgeries and multiple treatments, he continues to work at regaining his health.  He improves a bit each day and I pray for continued betterment.  Other than minor issues, my own health has been uneventful.

This year marked our most successful in gardening.  Although we had enough rain to rot most area gardens, our sandy hill garden thrived.  I am so thankful our shelves and freezer are full of the bounty.

The quilts I’ve finished this year include:

  • Bright Hopes baby quilt gifted to Braxton
  • Scrappy Split-16 queen+ quilt for my bed
  • Wonky Stars sofa quilt for the foot of my bed
  • Batik Winding Ways sofa quilt gifted to Hearmon and Theresa

I continue hand stitching on String Pyramids quilt nearly every day.  The twin+ top is almost complete.  There are also some unfinished quilt projects in the stack but I continue to slowly work on them too.

This is also a year that saw me sewing.  I’ve made 2 PJ pants for Jacob and 5 for Bob.  Bob also got a new hooded robe.  Jake has added 5 new shirts to his office wardrobe while my clothing stash increased with 2 long-sleeved tees and a few pairs of shorts.  Yesterday, I finished a stuffed dog bed for Lolita (filled with fabric snips, crumbs and threads.  The cover is removable for washing.  She LOVES it!

Overall, our year was full of blessings and as we ring in the new year, I wish you good health, success, laughter and love.

Shirl

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Categories: canning, Family, Quilting, Sewing, shirt making, veggie gardening 

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