What I've Been Doing For Six Weeks....

My mom spent three months here at my place, went home for three weeks, and last Thursday went back into the hospital. Today we took her by ambulance to a very nice rehab facility, where she may spend almost three weeks trying to get stronger. I'll post quickly....then I'm headed back there to check on her.

While I was away......

I was dreaming of living here

Enjoyed my Blossoming Snow Crab tree

Made an apron and gift basket for the Heart Walk Fundraiser at work....which is modeled here by my sweet boy, Timothy.........the ultimate "good sport."

Whipped up a little (14") doily for my boss in honor of "Nurse's Week." She liked it so well that she framed it and hung it in her office.

I enjoyed lunch with my friend Diane.....a too rare occurrence. After mentioning the sweet bundt pan she used to make me a "bananaberry" bread at said lunch, not a week later these two bundt pans were waiting for me when I came home from work. They are the loveliest gift I've received in many moons. I have used them several times already.....they are AWESOME!

I received the "Renee Award" from my sista Idalia, aka YaYa. Thank-you, Yaya, for the sweet thoughts....I'm sorry it took me so long to pick up and acknowledge this award. You are a good and thoughtful friend.

I have been happy to be noodling around with my handwork. I hope to get some updated pics and post them soon. Like always when I've been away, I've missed writing and sharing my thoughts. So much has happened here........I thought of sharing the details, but who has the energy? So...I'll let those days stay in the yesterday and for today just keep looking to tomorrow.

See You Soon!!!

Have A Cup-Cake

I'm sure you've heard of this before....today I made a chocolate cake in a mug. I haven't eaten it yet, but it looks good.

First, you mix the following in the mug:
4 T flour
4 T sugar
2 T cocoa
After mixing dry ingredients, add:
One Egg
Mix well, then add:
3 T milk
3 T oil
Mix well again, then add:
A "splash" of vanilla
(about 1/2 teas)
Mix well again and microwave on "high" or 1000 watts for 3 minutes. Here's a pic whilst it "baked."
Let cool in mug about 1 minute...it shrinks back down into the cup.

Once cake is cool, about 15-20 minutes, frost if desired. You may also add a tablespoon of chocolate chips before putting in microwave....mine is sans chips.

Since I began this post, Mom and I tried our cakes. It's not bad...it would be fun for kids to make. The cake is quite heavy, and definitely needs a little frosting for flavor.

Since it's a rainy day here, I'm off to the basement sewing room. Last weekend I took the remainder of my stuff that I had stored in the drawers and closet in my mom's room downstairs. You wouldn't believe it...I know I can't. I'm not sure how I got it all packed in there, but I know one thing for sure....I need to thin out the stash. I've put some cotton and yarn aside for my neighbor, who is always tickled with hand-me-downs. I hope she has a spare room ready.

I promise to show before and after pictures of my endeavor....which I'm sure will take some time. In the meantime, I'm happy for the rain, which is making the grass green, green, green.

"To me, a lush carpet of pine needles or spongy grass is more welcome than the most luxurious Persian rug." ~ Helen Keller

I couldn't agree more, Helen.

Happy Easter

"....be still and know that I am God."

Easter Greetings to you all. My good intentions included a post sometime last week....but you know the story. As I sat down to type tonight, this little sweetie greeted me, so I took her picture. I have never named the little doll I treated myself to some 15 years ago. I came across her at a fabric store, I think. It was a real challenge to keep her for myself and not share her with Emily. As I look at her now, she looks like an Annabelle to me.

While I was thinking of what to pack for the Canada trip, I remembered this navy print bought a few months back. I dug out an often-used pattern for a peasant blouse and made the 3/4 sleeve version. I enjoyed wearing it with my jeans.

Last Saturday Emily and I went to a vintage clothing sale at a nearby community hall. It was quite nice....you wouldn't believe the clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry to be found there. Some of the stuff dated back to the late 1800's. The vendors all dressed in their vintage clothes and the displays were really something. Here's Emily in a vintage hat.....what a doll.

My girl is a shoe nut. These shoes were cute, but not comfortable. They didn't come home with us.....however, one pair did.....but of course no picture of those.

Church tonight was very solemn as it should be. The older I get, the more I am awed by the great gift God gave us in Jesus. Tonight I couldn't stop thinking about what Jesus must have felt in the Garden of Gethsemane. I am looking forward to the joy of Easter morning, when we will celebrate our risen Savior. Oh, I enjoy the bunnies and chicks, and have a few treats tucked away for the kids and my mom, but my happiness will come from the knowledge that I am truly saved from sin, by grace, through Jesus Christ.

I wish you all a joyous Easter, filled with the joy and blessings of God....and a couple of bunnies and chicks thrown in there for good measure : )

"...And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
~Our Lord and Savior Jesus
Matthew 28:20

Oh, Canada

Greetings from windy Canada. We are near Lake Ontario, and it is a brisk wind, indeed. My first day here was spent.....relaxing! Woohoo, it was nice. In between some reading, and even a nap, I started some mindless projects.

A "textured" dishcloth....pattern from the ball band of Peaches'nCream cotton yarn. I love the colors, and the pattern is just interesting enough.

Next up, I brought some sweet floral scraps found many moons ago at a now-closed quilt shop. The yo-yos will make up a pillow for Mom's room...what do you think....round or square? I plan to use ball fringe trim in a pretty pink or cream color.

All's quiet at home....at least that's what they're telling me. My mom sounds good and is enjoying helping take care of Pumpkin. She is turning out to be a good little puppy...she is potty trained (goes to the door and barks), can sit and lay down on command, and is pretty close to being able to "stay." In case you forgot how cute she is....here's a Pumpkin picture.

Pumpkin enjoying a pilfered sock.....who left their socks on the floor....wait a minute, that looks like mine.

I plan to visit a local fabric store or two tomorrow....I have lots of stuff at home waiting for me, so I'll shop with care and discretion. I'll be ready to get back home....I'm not much of traveler. Until then, hope you are all blessed with peace and a good project for your mind and soul.

Happy Birthdays

Way back on March 10, my mom celebrated her 89th birthday!

It was a fun but tiring day for her. Emily, Glen and I took her to dinner. Timothy had class and couldn't miss. He made it for cake and presents, though.

My mom is perking along. We have taken her back to her house for a couple of "visits," but she is always ready to come back here to her little room.




We are blessed to have celebrated another wonderful birthday with Mom.



Today is Glen's birthday. He'll spend the bulk of it taking apart my washer and attempting to change the bearings. This washing machine has been a lot of trouble...each time he repairs it he says, "next time we're just getting a new one." And every time he manages to fix it up for me. In so many ways, Glen is always there for me when I need him most. I love you, Honey. Happy happy birthday to the love of my life!!!

These last weeks have been especially busy for me. Things have settled and guess what? I am going on "vacation." You heard that right....I plan to travel with Glen next week when he goes out of town for business. It has been a difficult decision whether or not to go, but the kids are two big sweeties and have agreed to look after my mom.....Mom has agreed that she will be fine. We are crossing the border again and heading to Canada. Now the only question is.....what projects to pack?

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Before I began posting today, I noticed this will be my 50th post. I sure miss my blog when I have an extended break, and thought surely I'd have posted more by now. The busyness of my days, however, reminds me to thank the good Lord for all that he provides me....especially the strength to carry out His plan for me.

Spring is slowing arriving to our corner of the world....I am looking forward to digging : )
I have a few ideas for our backyard this year....I'll share more on that next time. Until then, I hope you are looking forward to tomorrow, and enjoying every minute of today.

"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count...it's the life in your years."

Abraham Lincoln

The Reality Is...

The reality of life is hard to see sometimes, especially when your head is down and you're dancing as fast as you can. Bear with me....this post won't be as ominous as it sounds.

It occurred to me today that I need to face the facts. Who better to share them with than you?

We have a new addition at our house. I have fought this for years. Finally, I just got tired of fighting...and so, meet Pumpkin.

This little girl is 3 months old and belongs, officially, to my daughter Emily. At 21, she made the decision to get a puppy....even though I tried to talk her out of it, what with Grandma here, me working, her school and work schedule, etc., but it was no use. My girl has wanted a dog literally since she could say "doggie." Those close to me know what a struggle this has been. The reality is that Pumpkin is here now. To her credit, she is a good pup and Emily takes wonderful care of her. My mom is sure getting a kick out of her, too.

Fact two is that, as hard as I try and as much as I talk about it, my beloved projects are on the back burner.....and may simmer there for some time. My life belongs to my loved ones for now, so I'll get to them when I get to them, and not a moment sooner. Saying that last bit seems to have lifted something from my shoulders....I'm not sure what, but I feel better all the same.

Fact three: I need to take better care of myself....a lamentation floating around my head for the last couple of years. I've heard it, read about it, and been told flat out...."if you don't take care of yourself first, you won't be in good enough shape to take care of anyone else." I understand it, believe it, and know I have to implement a program ASAP.

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My hubby has returned from a week-long business trip, and boy-o-boy I'm glad he's home. After 25+ years of the goodbyes and welcome homes, I still miss him terribly. We have a busy weekend planned. I am actually looking forward to scrubbing my floor in the morning while my guys attend an auto show. Then it's some shopping and various sundries to fill in the hours. I'm hoping you are all looking forward to a nice weekend, filled with nothing but happy realities.

Pumpkin is a Bichon-Poo

"Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." ~ Gene Hill

Tuesday Highlights on Friday

It started out with warmer temperatures and sunshine....

Who knew Tuesday was going to be such a nice day around here? When I arrived home there was a surprise waiting for me. My sweet friend Susie sent me this lovely package.

There was a card with a beautiful sentiment, and all was wrapped in this gorgeous hat box.

Inside were so many goodies....white tea, mint tea (my favorite), gourmet candy sticks (which I'll have to hide since they are getting way too much interest from my gang) and many items with the "Home Sweet Home" fragrance from Yankee Candle (also my favorite).

When I unwrapped this exquisite teacup, the tears came. I admired this on Susie's blog, and being such a dear, she included it in the care package. This little teacup will be cherished forever.

I have spoken of Susie here before. We met through the blogs and there is a special connection that I'm not sure either of us can quite explain. We have a lot in common, and perhaps that was the beginning of our friendship. All I know is, I feel so blessed to have met Susie....her kindness and love mean so much to me. Thanks, Honey, for everything.

Tuesday was also a red letter day because I took my mom out for her first outing since coming home (not including the doctor). We went to a sweet place here in our town that celebrates Fat Tuesday with a Polish buffet, complete with accordion player.

We had a wait, so Mom is checking out the "to go" menu.

They decorate for each season/holiday, and still have the Valentine's things up.

The entertainment...a nice young man who really knew his way around an accordion.

Mom had a good time....she loves the music. We went for a short ride after lunch, and Mom was pooped the rest of the day.

Tuesday was a great day for me, and I have grown to really appreciate every good thing that comes my way....you know, simple pleasures. I hope you are enjoying a simple pleasure or two this week.

P.S. The warmer temps and some rain showers today have me thinking of the garden. How about you?

What Friends Are For

"A friend loves at all times."
Proverbs 17:17

I was able to see my friend, Sherry today...such a nice treat. Sherry made it even nicer by bringing me a surprise. She said it was for Valentine's Day, but I think she knew I needed a pick-me-up....Sherry's always there for me.

Chocolate-covered strawberries on a handmade confection stand.

There was a pretty bow and sweet little Valentine card.
There is another pedestal under the big plate....all made from vintage dishes.
Thank you, Sherry, for your thoughtfulness. My mom said to "be sure and tell Sherry I think this is lovely." Me, too.

Our meeting place was one of our faves, Joann Fabrics. What with all the busyness these days, I haven't gotten out to the fabric store in a long time....such a treat!
I found some new sock yarn that I thought I'd give a try...it's Deborah Norville Serenity sock yarn by Premier Yarns. Very soft and a real steal at $3.29 a skein. With coupons and discounts, this pair of socks will cost about $6....hopefully the yarn will be a good one.

I love the colors, taupes and a pretty orchid pink.
My mom's view from her seat at the table...she tells me every meal how much she likes this spot, and asked me today to take a picture. The Valentine cards are a temporary addition...Mom thinks they should stay :)

I still haven't caught up with my project wish list...my heart is willing but the timeclock isn't. Now that the routine is established here, I am going to try to devote some time to myself.

Does anyone plan certain goals for the Lenten season? Mine is the same as last year...I'm giving up worrying for Lent. Let me know if you participate in this tradition. Until next time...do what I'll be doing....trusting and praying and praying and trusting.

"...seek his kingdom and his righteousness...Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself."
Matthew 6:33-34

Home Sweet Home

"...serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts." 1Chronicles 28:9

Valentine's Day brings to my mind the word "devotion," perhaps because I'm such an emotional gal. I feel very devoted to my husband and children, and nowadays my mom. The above scripture from 1Chronicles is especially poignant for me because I believe God really does search our hearts...so I want to make sure what He finds in mine is good and truly God-pleasing.

Mom came home sweet home on Thursday, completely bypassing her place for mine. After a nice hot shower and some fresh clothes, Mom snuggled down for the night in her room. She is very frail and weak, but wants everyone to know how happy and blessed she feels to be home.

I've been home today catching up on laundry and some general homekeeping. A few weeks ago (I think), I mentioned that my sewing room was now down in the basement. It has taken me all this time to put my things away and at least get my machine set up. My first "project" was to patch a pair of jeans for Timothy. Even that little job felt good to accomplish. I'm hoping I can get it presentable enough to take a few pics and show you my new digs.

About as far as I have gotten with my Valentine craft plans is to print some things out for handmade cards. I still have 16 hours or so and I'm keeping a good thought. How about you?
The opportunity to love is everywhere....I hope you are able to share this most wondrous gift with someone special this Valentine's Day.

You say the glow on my cheeks sweetheart,
Is like the rose so sweet.
But when the bloom of fair youth has flown
Then will our lips still meet?
When life's setting sun fades away dear,
And all is said and done.
Will your arms still entwine and caress me?
Will our hearts still beat as one?

Whole Lotta Cookin' Goin On

"Cooking is like making love...you do it well or you do not do it at all"

~Harriet van Horne

Well, I don't know about that quote I chose for today's post : ) Yesterday I was able to get into the kitchen and do some cooking and it felt good. I started with a pot of cream of potato soup, followed by navy bean soup with ham...including a cornbread for good measure.

I didn't get a picture of the potato soup, but it was good.

My mom is holding her own for the moment, and looking forward to coming home on Thursday, the 12th. The plan is for her to go home and see how she fares. I plan to make daily visits, perhaps more than one a day....so I just finished polishing my running shoes.

I have picked up the needles so rarely lately there's no progress to share. Really, just sitting here writing is pure joy today, albeit short-lived. I'm off to a bridal shower and then to the hospital. The weather here is warmer and sunny, and I've even heard a chirp or two from the other side of the window.....another blessing.

Hope you are happy and feeling blessed today.

"Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark."
~R. Tagore

"Into Each Life A Little Rain Must Fall"

Hello.

Missed you.

Where to begin? The easiest explanation is that while I was away, life just kept on happening. The most difficult part is that my mom has been in the hospital for 10 days. That sweet little thing began to bleed internally, wound up getting four units of blood and enduring a 2 hour procedure. Mom is currently on the Rehab floor, trying to build up her strength. She is much changed, but I am hoping she'll be more herself once she is home.

During the long days at the hospital I developed a cold that I can't seem to shake yet. I have returned to work for the time being......I am being conservatively optimistic as to whether I will stay working.

Not too much has gotten accomplished here at the 'Acre or on the craft front. I did, however, try something new to snack on and it's very easy.

Pop some lite popcorn (microwave is fine), shake out the unpopped kernels and set aside. Next, melt 12 oz. of good quality white chocolate over a double boiler. Pour over popcorn, mixing thoroughly. Spread popcorn out on waxed or parchment paper, sprinkle with fine colored "sprinkles" and allow to set. Store in an airtight container and enjoy. It's delicious!

Sweet Susan tagged me for a picture meme....but it was a while ago and I've forgotten all the particulars. So sorry to bungle this, Susan. Despite my ineptness, I want to participate....so here's a picture of my two favorite girls.

Emily Margaret with Grandma Margaret

I may have mentioned how much I enjoy Valentine's Day. Earlier plans had me making some sweet cards and delicate posies...you never know. I may surprise myself.

So, until next time, I'm going to be here keeping it real and saying my prayers...with a little rain here and there to remind me that life is rolling on......and I better keep up.

"They will be like a well-watered garden, and they will sorrow no more."
Jeremiah 31:13