Life with Piggyletta.

Whew, Still trying to get back.

2012-01-24T13:18:00.000-05:00

2 inch rainbow squares Crib quilt machine stiched and quilted with a crosshatch.

Toothbrush (weave) Basket

Whirlygig Doll blanket in Bright pink.
Machine stitched and hand tied.

Whirlygig Doll Quiilt
Machine stiched and hand tied with Chenille backing

Vintage strawberry shortcake custom curtains for the girl's room.

Custom panel shorts made from old jeans and canvas ticking for the boy.

Custom shorts made from twill pants for the boy.

Take care,

Fruity - successful molt.

2011-01-12T23:32:00.001-05:00

Good Job Fruity!

Take care,

Here's hoping for snow.

2011-01-11T11:10:00.001-05:00

Take care,

The eyes have it.

2011-01-11T08:44:00.001-05:00

Take care,

More Lego Love.

2011-01-11T08:40:00.000-05:00

Take care,

Things I did today.

2011-01-09T20:22:00.002-05:00

Started with this dress.

Removed the top. Added waistband and elastic.

Got this. Very happy girl with spinny tutu skirt.

Then I made this to help with the Kaiya "room gut- redo".

Can you tell what it is?

How about now?

Had Brody buy a Hula hoop on his way home from a job.

Sewed some tubes added some elastic around the top and hung it from a swivel hook in the ceiling. Instant Princess tent.

Take care,

Kaiya.

2011-01-09T20:03:00.001-05:00

Take care,

Star Wars lives on.

2011-01-04T09:27:00.002-05:00

Take care,
Kendra.

More Martha

2011-01-03T11:16:00.001-05:00

Take care,

Thanks Martha.

2011-01-03T09:08:00.002-05:00

I used Martha's Girl's Shirt Dress tutorial for this project. As you can see, she loves it. Now to make some for all the girlies in my life.

Take care,
kendra

Hey...

2011-01-01T08:40:00.002-05:00

I have no real reason for neglecting my blog lately. I'm not going to make excuses and say I was too busy. I was but could have taken a few minutes to update and show off some pictures. My lists of to dos just kept getting longer and longer and I was overwhelmed. My fight or flight response was flight... oh well, I'm here now and have some finishes.

I was hoping to join in the fun at i'm a ginger monkey in the "scrap vomit" quilt a long, but the perfectionist in me couldn't wrap my brain about using so many different colors of 2.5 inch squares that may or may not look good together. I couldn't take so much time working on a quilt only to hate it in the end. I did still , and still am, using the scraps but in a way that I can deal with the chaos, yet still have some control. both of the above quilts are quilted and tied.

I also utilized my scraps in making quilted journal covers for Christmas gifts this year.

I recently got Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: and have most of the supplies listed in this book for various projects, but I really enjoyed the chapter on patchwork quilts. I especially like the tied quilts as it reminds me of my childhood. Growing up we had many blankets, some quilts, and afghans that were made by my dad's mother. It still amazes me especially now that I'm making them myself, that she did it blind. I can't imagine how she was able to manuever though and complete some of the smallest details, but she did. I never paid attention to those things when I was a kid or when she was still alive, I think I could have learned alot from her had it not been for my snotty disposition and my teenage angst.

We still have few of those blankets, my son has one on his bed and has loved it an and cuddled it and picked at some of the tufts, so I was happy to have a very detailed diagram thanks to Miss Martha, on how to execute the perfect French knot. In doing so I realized how much I too loved those tied blankets and picked at those same tufts as a kid while I read in that big overstuffed chair at the old farm. I decided to follow the pattern for the basic patchwork quilt on page 66, but using all of those 2.5 inch squares I had cut. I first arranged them in a basic nine patch and then sewed them together and just kept going. I have been following my " Use what you got rule" and have come up with some great variations, forcing myself to think outside of the box.

More finishes that were gifted:

Lost & Found.

2010-11-16T09:37:00.000-05:00

My pep; it's just not there. I have been working, but not with nearly as much enthusiasm as I had before. Meh.

I finally decided to repair a quilt that was made for me in high school that had some damage. Thanks Luvela. It was very lovingly used and abused, but I have been afraid to hand quilt it because of the nagging perfectionist on my shoulder that rears its ugly head every so often. My original thought was to leave it as is and cover it with a new front and back and tying it for a quick remedy, but as I sat with it thinking on what to do, Kaiya asked if I was going to fix it for her. It's pink after all and everyone in this house knows if it's pink, it's hers. Period.

So after fretting and worrying a few days about how my stitches would look, especially a hundred years from now when the bitty's are counting my stitches; I just took the plunge and said screw it. I'm giving it a second life to be loved and used. Then and there I started my first journey into the land of hand stitching.

I'm hooked. I adore sitting with the kids with hoop and needle in hand, on the couch, at the doctor's office or while they run around on the playground rounding up imaginary criminals. I like the look of my stitches, even though they are far from perfect. I liked it so much that after Kaiya's quilt was restitched and had a new binding on it, I grabbed a quilt sandwich from my closet that has been waiting 6 months + to be quilted and plotted out a quilting stencil, jumping right in my stitches are becoming more uniform and a little bit tighter. I may actually be able to call myself a quilter and get up the nerve to enter something in the quilt show next year. We’ll see.

Take care,

Mask love.

2010-10-25T10:35:00.000-04:00

We got Booed.

2010-10-24T10:54:00.000-04:00

So Cute. . We found a bag o' treats at our back door yesterday and a paper that read:

We've been coloring and preparing our bags of goodies to drop off at our unsuspecting friends' houses. We taped our ghosts in our windows so the next phantom will skip our house and give it to another. The kids had a lot of fun and they tried to guess who our phantom was.

Brian is very excited to deliver them as he will be able to use his "super spy" techniques he has been practicing such as stealth rolling, diving and invisibility. The last one, you can imagine, has been hysterical to watch. Great way to work as a family. Check it out and get it started in your neighborhood. Thanks phantom for including us in the fun.

Take care,

It's that kind of day

2010-10-19T09:45:00.003-04:00

Today we are goofy and tired as we stayed up late watching Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief and trying to get the house ready for the contractors to come in and fix my closet ceiling which developed a big leak. Today is rainy and cold so we have buckets and towels up there to catch all the water until they fix it. NOT FUN. We are going to do some crafts and then later play puppy and most likely crash out at nap time, both of us. I'm still cutting my 2.5 squares for the quilt along and cleaned out a bunch of things, such as fabric notions and a sewing machine giving them away on freecycle. What are you doing today?

Take care,

Today...

2010-10-13T10:14:00.000-04:00

Finally feeling comfortable enough to come out and see us.

Halloween is every day.

Migration time.

2.5 squares for the quilt- a- long on i'm a ginger monkey. So many more to go.

Quilting this Scrap quilt. I'm liking the pieced back far better than the pinwheel front.
It's taking forever.

Our beach find. So far the view on the beach has been these strewn everywhere all different sizes.

Today we are going on another sewing /playdate with our friends...enjoy your day, we sure will.

Take care,

I'm going to join.

2010-10-12T11:37:00.001-04:00

How about you?

i'm a ginger monkey: care for some scrap vomit (AKA quilt along?)

Take care,

Paintbox scrappy quilt.

2010-10-10T08:51:00.001-04:00

This quilt was started last March and finally finished. It measures 49 x 52 inches. This is a summer weight quilt lined with flannel.

I lined the back with primary colors from my scrap stash and used binding that I had made from the backing.

The quilting was a spiral square within each square.

Fun, Family & Friends at the Faust Farm.

2010-10-10T08:28:00.002-04:00

We were invited this past weekend help our friends on their farm. I always enjoy things like this and I want my children to know that there is a different life than they are used to, in fact, it is more like how I grew up as a kid. We went for the annual chicken harvest and helped out.

While the adults were busy with the chickens, the kids went exploring and ran around through the woods and all around the farm. The rule of the house, especially because the weather was gorgeous, was " get your butt outside". Brian brought his DS, but Madison soon had him runnin' after her to play. Kaiya was under the mistaken impression that it was her job to kill the chickens and waited around for a bit for someone to show her how. She too, happily chased after Madison once she accepted thet she indeed did NOT have to kill chickens.

These little pigs were new to the farm, purchased and hauled in the day before so they were still abit skittish and very leary of the kids and there supa' fast movements. It was hysterical to watch them push and shove each other to get to the front to see us and then if someone moved an arm, all hell would break loose and they would run and squeal climbing over and pushing through each other, just to settle down and do it all over again.

It was a long day, the kids left at about 6ish and I was there till around 8: until the last package of chicken had been packed in the freezer. Carol and Bill treated me to " shopping in the freezer" for all my hard work. Farm raised beef, sweet sausage, chip steak, chicken, ground beef, BACON and brown eggs. I went home exhausted and dirty , desperately needing a shower and happy knowing that I'd helped out their family while making new friends and memories with the my kids. It was a very good day.

I'm switching camps.

2010-10-04T10:56:00.001-04:00

My good friend's facebook status this morning said "Hi everybody! Do y'all have your slickers and galoshes ready? '"

Ugh... It is rainy and nasty plus I'll need them for the rain and my tears. I finally have finished my Scrappy star quilt I started back in March of this year; one I was hoping to sell. I knew that there was the possibility that the colors may bleed, since it they did on my wedding star pillow for Chanel, and the "Hanna quilt” and researched what to do before washing. I had read that you can add a cup full of vinegar to your cold wash water or there is a product you can buy to set it, but it is extremely messy and time consuming. So I said a prayer and crossed my fingers hoping for the best and added the vinegar. It didn't work. Let's do some math...time on quilt, 120 hours + bleeding dyes in a 12 minute wash cycle = oh f*%k.

The water's gonna be deep today.

I saw some bleeding and instantly felt my heart sink. Brody being the greatest, ran down to the store and got some Oxiclean, thinking I could soak it and get the dye stains out. It soaked for a few hours. All, save one barely noticeable spot, came out. I immediately went and found the culprit in my stash cursing and muttering”I never want to see you again!" as I walked it to the trash. So as the title states, I’m switching camps.

To which camps am I referring? Well the pre-wash fabric vs. no prewashing fabric camps, silly. I had read the opinions of various quilters in blog land and firmly planted myself on the no prewashing fabric side of the fence. I'd spend the time making the quilt, bind it and eagerly wait for it to wash and dry to see the finished product, all the while hoping for the best. After these two rounds of waiting and hoping for the best knowing full well that my soon to be finished "paint box quilt," will likely bleed as well, well...my stomach hurts just thinking about it. I am planting myself firmly on the other side of the fence now and making a declaration today. I will ALWAYS prewash my scraps or fabrics, especially those that are of questionable origin, before going through this again!

Anyway after starting this 8 months ago, it's finished. It measure in at 47 1/2 inches by 32 inches. It was machine pieced, with machine and hand quilting with some decorative double whipped embroidery in the center of each star. I will be listing it on etsy for sale in the next couple days.
Editted to add: This is winter weight, 100% cotton batting.

Take care,

Mirror mirror on the wall....

2010-09-30T21:41:00.005-04:00

Speedy

Fruity

Speedy (back), Fruity (middle) and Climber

The guys.

I love these guys crazy as it seems.

Take care,

One down and one to go

2010-09-30T21:38:00.001-04:00

This one is finally finished and ready to be washed.

This one is in the final stages of quilting. Binding in the morning.

Take care,

Missing days past.

2010-09-30T16:34:00.002-04:00

Original artwork by S.Pfahler.

Take care,

Vampire Knits.

2010-09-28T09:19:00.002-04:00

Have you seen this?

Vampire Knits. Projects to keep you knitting from Twilight to Dawn, by Genevieve Miller.

If you haven't, you're missing out. It really is a beautiful book with 28 patterns that were inspired by her "favorite creatures of the night".

From the press release:

“Author Genevieve Miller started out as your average knitter: making hats, blankets, and sweaters, and altering patterns when she couldn’t find exactly what she wanted. But it wasn’t until Miller got swept away by Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series that she was inspired to design her own patterns. Vampire Knits reflects her desire to step inside the books she loved so much and interact with them in her own hands-on way — knitting. The appealing and easy-to-knit projects found in the book range from cool sweaters to cozy neck protectors, blood-drop socks to a werewolf hat for your favorite shapeshifter. Gloves inspired by Twilight’s Bella Swan, blood-red jewelry, stylish vampire capelets, and a beautiful diary cover are just a few of the timeless items crafty vampire fans have been clamoring for.

Vampire Knits includes 28 projects by vampire and werewolf fans across the country and beyond. Some are knitwear designers, but many are students, professionals, or stay-at-home moms who love to knit and design. their projects in Vampire Knits make it the first collection of knitting projects for dreamy mysterious vampires, and the fans who love them. Whether you’re team Edward, Team Jacob, or simply a member of Team Vampire, you’re destined to find the perfect accessory to evoke the spirit of the most beloved undead characters.”

Publisher: Potter Craft; Original edition

Release Date: September 14, 2010

ISBN-10: 030758660X

ISBN-13: 978-0307586605

You can find her here and here on her blog.

Take care,

*written with permission of the author.

Happy Birthday Baby!

2010-09-26T08:42:00.000-04:00

Take care,

Yippee , another finish!

2010-09-23T12:20:00.001-04:00

26.5 by 24.5 inches Handweaved toothbrush rug.
Dark blues and yellows, very bright and cheery.
This is for sale. If you're interested drop me a line.
Take care,

More Hermit crab Love. Meet Fruity.

2010-09-21T10:38:00.000-04:00

Take care,

Wishing...

2010-09-21T09:25:00.001-04:00

Kaiya Mae at GTF 5/10

we were with you, right now.

Take care,

Today's To-dos

2010-09-20T08:40:00.001-04:00

What's on your list?

Take care,

Bound, labeled and tied up with string.

2010-09-19T22:39:00.002-04:00

whew... finished. This one was definately a learning experience from start to finish. So many interesting and annoying things happened while making this. I've written down my problem areas and where I ran into trouble as I went along and will do some research because there has to be an easier way that someone else discovered the same way I did. I'm happy with it, and glad to move on to the next project.

What are you working on?

Take care,

The wedding was the best

2010-09-18T23:56:00.000-04:00

other than my own of course.

Take care,

Introducing Greenie.

2010-09-18T22:48:00.001-04:00

Take care,

I've been side tracked for the last few days

2010-09-18T12:51:00.010-04:00

.... working on gifts for upcoming events. I enjoy sitting on the couch with Brody at night and stitching under the glow of the hermit crab tank while they move things about in their tank. Yes for those of you who don't know we are now the proud owners of 3 hermit crabs that were saved from eminent death. More on that in another post.

I've been working on a double whipped running stitch and practiced on a sampler for a while before doing on the scrappy star pillow. It went together easily and I am quite happy with it. I did however find out that some of the greens fabric used in this star and in the "Hanna" quilt were never color set and had a lot of bleeding in the wash.

I woke up this morning upset at the dye bleed and knew that it was going to bother me and I would fret over it especially since the wedding is today and this is the gift. I went to the store to get carbona dye corrector and prayed for the best. It did take out the bleed but unfortunately it took out some dye from other fabric within the quilt and on here. Live and learn.

I've been going through all of our clothes and these next few weeks are focused on Brian's closet. I've been making panel shorts out of jeans that were thrifted this summer adding elastic waist bands, which is much easier for an eight year old. At this age he has little interest in what he wears and has no concept of what is" cool" in a surfing town... yet.

For Miss Kaiya it's all about tattoos and princesses, so we came up with the knee princess. The Body Crayon Book is a big hit with the little kids that come here to play. Today will be rainbows and butterflies before cousin Matty gets here to hang with them while we head to the wedding. The Princess and the frog movie is her choice for tonight. I'm sure the boys will be thrilled.

Take care,
Kendra

Seriously, no pictures.

2010-09-16T11:36:00.001-04:00

Take care,

I've been gone a while...

2010-09-12T21:46:00.004-04:00

This is a doll quilt I made for Kaiya. All of the pieces are fabrics/scraps that were handed down by loved ones or family friends. Most are vintage fabrics that I have been holding on to, bound and determined to use the smallest piece. It's about the size of a placemat and fits in her newly revamped antique baby doll crib. ( Thanks Ronna and Grammy).

Here's the view of the back. Kaiya waited impatiently for me to finish and immediately took it and wrapped up her pony baby yelling "this one's mine and I love it."

Cool. I have two more little girlies in my life to make these for. I still have a cake pan filled with these 1 3/4 inch half triangle squares ready to sew up.

This is the "Hanna quilt" I made for a friend's new daughter. ( If you're reading this, feign surprise :^)). I started this a while back and described it here. I put it off as I couldn't deside on how I wanted to quilt it.

I finally sat down and realized I was over thinking the design and just went for it, jumping in with both feet. K(eep) I(t)S(imple)S(tupid) right? I am very happy with the outcome. The back is a Beatrix Potter which my friend absolutely loves.

I have been ~~holding onto~~ hoarding fabric, waiting for that " special project". I have a million "special projects" rolling around in my head and various notebooks around the house and not nearly the time to do them all or hold onto this stuff when the time finally comes. I'm certainly not enjoying it if it's boxed up in a closet. I made the declaration last March that I was going to use scraps for my projects and that I was also on a buying freeze. I finally decided that a new 8 foot round toothbrush rug for my dining room was special enough. I went through my scrap bags and upcycled sheets from the thrift store I had packed away in my closet and cut it all up into 2 inch width strips and started weaving.

I generally clean off my kitchen table and hoist it up working on a couple of rows at a time between projects and well...life. It is slow going so when I get sick of it I tuck the tails up under it and toss it on the floor until the next time. It's been interesting watching it grow. So far it it contains 2 full flat sheets, 1 full fitted sheet, 1 queen flat sheet and about 9 yards of fabric and is almost 5'.

The other two quilts I've been trying to finish up are the scrappy star string quilt and the paintbox quilt. Both are in various stages of completion. I can smile and say it's a little bit further than a month ago. I may very well end up using the star quilt as a wall hanging . I really find it visually pleasing and it will go beatifully with my new rug. :)

I've been really trying to stay focused and do a little bit each day getting the kids more involved in crafts and less t.v especially since we are in the first full week of the new school year. We've had the cable off for almost two months and rely on monitered Netflix or Hulu and are doing well without most of it. Not having commercials has definitely made a difference in how the kids act. I really can't wait to load up the table with all the crafts soon, and letting the kids just dig in with wild abandon. We're almost there.

Take care.

Kendra

Please excuse my absence

2010-05-11T08:14:00.000-04:00

Life has been busy and productive between the garden , hanging out with friends , revamping wardrobes for the kids and myself, my work out schedule, and just enjoying each others company that i haven't been around. We are leaving for the Good Trade Farm for more fishing fun, gardening, good conversation and some much needed recharging with the folks. I'll be back next week and post pictures.

Kaiya unfortuanately found out the hardway that we can't play with rubber bands. thank goodness she had her glasses on and things turned out alright!

In the meantime we are off to get the "one that got away" and put up a good fight!

Take care,

Our weekend craft was Homemade windsocks!

2010-05-03T11:59:00.003-04:00

We used duck cloth, iron on crayon , floral wire & ribbon.

Honestly i enjoyed making these far more than the kids and am tinkering with some linen and hemp versions. So fun.

Take care,

Good trade Farm Friday- fishing.

2010-04-30T07:51:00.000-04:00

We're coming to get you in T- 12 days.

Take care,

"Don't set sail on someone else's star”.

2010-04-29T12:52:00.004-04:00

Or so it is said in an African proverb. When reading this quote I had an a-ha moment. I'm sure you've had one of your own at some point during your journey. This is precisely what I have been doing for a long time now.

I have recently started to reevaluate my life and the things that are important to me. I am closer to 40 than I ever thought I would be. You see my mother always said I was lucky to live past 16 because I was such a smart ass. I still am by the by and am fine with that thankyouverymuch!

Many of the things that I thought were important over the years have slowy faded away and become clutter. Lots of clutter. Clutter in my computer, my closets, my head, my relationships and really in every aspect of my life and home and I have been facing it all head on. I have collected so many different things in my crafting quest, and life in general, if i were to be honest; I lost sight of the things that were important. My family, my children , myself...

I have been trying to make myself step out of my comfort zones and try new things and in doing so I have found so many things that I actually enjoy doing such as quilting vs. garmet sewing, hand sewing vs. machine sewing and even embroidery. None of these things were ever a point of interest before. During these moments of quiet stitching I have started to listen to myself and to my surroundings. I'm not perfect and I will never be the perfect person , mother, crafter, blogger... insert any other appropriate title here, and that's okay. Just doing it and living my life day by day with laughter and love is enough.

Trying to figure out a design for the star, finally decided to use a variation of 3 different patterns and adding my own twist. ( Old table finally gone!!!!)

This table, as crazy as it seems has really changed the flow of our house and I am in love. It was a garage sale purchase this past week and made me really pair down my "craft" excess in this room. No more clutter. No more folding chairs. No more fighing for space No more trying to "make it work. Real family dinners and gatherings at the table have been lovely. Kaiya calls the arm chairs the "king and queen thrones" and only grown ups can sit in them. It's good to be queen.

These stars a part of my first ever "quilt as you go" with a hand quilting extravaganza!

lots more of embellishment and more quiet and reflective moments with my kids as they too try their hands at sewing and embroidery

The clutter is starting to disappear. The bluebird of happiness has come to roost here once again and I'm looking towards my own star these days.

Take care,

Craft time with the kids.

2010-04-28T08:27:00.000-04:00

Take care,

Pot Holder Pass Round 2 -- Sent and Received.

2010-04-27T10:31:00.000-04:00

My Pot HolderPass 2 swap buddy Teresa has yet to receive her potholders as a result of my tardiness and the Ielandic volcano reeking havok, but told me I could post some pictures of them (she wanted to be surprise, but gave in :) ) Teresa I hope you like them and thank you again for your patience.

This pattern is called " Honor & Courage" from The Quilter's Cache/Marcia Hohn. This pattern was perfect for Teresa's color choices which were red, green & gold. it just seemed to make the colors pop. They are all paper pieced which took some practise, trial & error and a bit of cursing. I also wanted to make a finger pocket potholder as I still manage to burn my hands NO MATTER WHAT and thought it made them a bit more sustantial. I think this may be my prefered method of potholder construction in the future.

The potholders I received were from Bahamadawn with fabric made in the Bahamas which she sent some extra with the potholders. I love the whimsy of the owl and the yo-yos seem to evoke a smile everytime I walk into my kitchen.

Thanks again ladies. A big Thank You to Amy for putting this all together. I'll be bowing out of round 3 but will jump back into to more swaps in the future!

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Fridays--- Happy Birthday

2010-04-23T08:47:00.002-04:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Happy Birthday!

Mmmm.... real buttercream icing from scratch.

Have a great day!

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday- Outhouse.

2010-04-16T11:17:00.001-04:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

The out house has been in the same spot , near the bass pond, for a while now.

The folks decided that it was time for it to move to a new location further up the hill.

This is the rigging to transport it . Dad's face has been cropped out as he isn't keen on photos.

Movin' on up. Dad had already done all the prep and dug a new hole near the "Catfish Caboose".

They decided to move it up in a center location on the property making it easier , especially for the grandkids. Lil' miss would never make it down the hill to get to the house. I can officially tell my kids it's okay to *^it in the woods.

This beauty is going to get a fresh coat of paint and by summer will have new plant and flower growth all around it I'm sure. I bet you want one!

Take care,

Been quiet on the blog....

2010-04-13T11:22:00.000-04:00

because...

New (recycled) kitchen towels and washcloths.

Appliqued beach and bath towels.

much needed ORGANIZATION

planting and repotting.

pot holder 2 swap.

finishing baby quilt gift.

and ... a whole lot of beach days.

with NO MORE WHEELCHAIR!!!!!!!!

or shoes for that matter.

the Easter bunny. Kaiya had no interest again this year.

singing and swinging.

and Jamie Cullum. If you don't know who he is, you should.

I'm still trying to get things finished/ sorted /sent/ freecycled or tossed and found I get more done * suprise* if the computer/TV isn't turned on.

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Tribute to Lil' Blue

2010-04-02T09:09:00.001-04:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Your new owners I 'm sure, will be more than happy with your performance and ability to complete big tasks despite your little stature; we sure were. So long little blue. You will be missed.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

May you have warm words on a cool evening, a full moon on a dark night, and a smooth road all the way to your door. ~Irish Toast

Take care,

Pluggin' along at a snail's pace.

2010-03-29T11:01:00.003-04:00

It's been quiet on the blog lately as I've been slowly working on my long list of in Progress quilts and finishing up my pot holders for the Potholder Pass. Round three sign ups are going on now if you're interested, just let Amy over at http://duringquiettime.blogspot.com/ know. She's been a wonderful hostess and organizer and there has been a great collection of works by some really talented people. I will be bowing out of # 3 as life at home has gotten a bit crazy.

Wednesday we are taking a trip to C.H.O.P.S. to meet a new Dr/surgeon who has specialized in Perthes. I hesitate to say he will be Brian's doctor as I know nothing about him except what is stated in his Bio on the Hospital's website. There is still so much we don't know and numerous opinions as to what stage Brian's perthes is in, that we are at least going to have another opinion to add to the ever growing medical file. It was stated that he will be casted and have some sort of surgey on his right side sometime this year; hopefully this doctor can give us something a bit more absolute. The unknown is what drives me insane or to tears on any given day. We are still unaware of what the insurance company is going to cover. They didn't think the wheelchair is medically necessary,so...

He has recently learned how to use crutches for short distance walking and for home use and some excercises to help his range of motion in his hip. He will likely need a walker for ease of use when he's casted ( I'm hoping for a Scottish-Rite Brace) , because he just feels that the wheelchair and crutches are "too much work". Some days are good , somedays are bad and it seems as though it's a constant battle concerning his perthes. This photo shows him as a happy child, right after this, he purposefully ran himself into a wooden fence for dramatic effect, outside of the tiger's cage and yelled "this is too hard! I hate You! I hate perthes", while onlookers leered at us; the terrible parents of that poor boy in the wheelchair, with their mouths agape. He wanted a reaction and got it in spades. It sucks for him, and us at times. It's extremely frustrating to continuously explain to an active seven year old ( he's frustrated with continously hearing it) that while he is able to walk, he is unable to run or jump because it will cause further damage and pain. I hope for a lot from this doctor without really knowing what I'm hoping for, if that makes sense. Thinking some good thoughts and sending our way would be greatly appreciated.

We participated in my friend Kate's day for Case for Smiles this past weekend and had a lot of fun with the kids. So a big thank you to her for all her hard work and planning. Make sure you check her out.

I currently have 6 quilts in the works 4 of these are scrap quilts and here are some pictures of the two I'm working on lately.

This is my version of Paint Box Quilt made of scraps. I pieced and sewed long srtips of scraps together and rotary cut them in 6-1/2 x 6-1/2 blocks. I still have to add on the purple panel and the outside sashing.

This quilt is of my own design, although I'm sure I'm not the first to ever think of it. These are the scrap leftover cuts from the scrap string panels I used to make my stars. This will be crib sized when finished. I've been practicing my free motion quilting and have been using a Skillbuilder #1 panel described here by Anita over at http://bloominworkshop.wordpress.com/. I need so much more practice. :)

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Times past.

2010-03-26T12:21:00.005-04:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Today's post is a bit reflective. I miss these times. I miss me and the person I was before kids. I miss the little boy in these pictures and the fun we had. I miss the times before things got so complicated and the Perthes diagnosis. Looking back, those times seemed so easy. They weren't really, it just seems that way as we made it through without too many scratches. My biggest worries back then seem so trivial compared to those we have now. On a scale of one to ten, they wouldn't even register. I try to remind myself today, that things could be far worse. It gives me a bit of comfort, but not much.

I always looked forward to going home. I still do. We could vacation anywhere but we always go there. Life is crazy and messy and sometimes really hard and this place always allows us an escape from it all for a while. We could go fishing for hours for all different types of fish in different settings. The bass literally jump on your hook. They still put up one hell of a fight and have often times outsmarted many a fisherman as they are trying to bring them ashore, but their nature and the outcome are usually the same. The catfish have proven to be a bit more elusive. As soon as you figure them out, they change it up and leave you guessing ”what the hell do I do now?"; making you re-evaluate your approach. Ironically this is the same with my kids, especially my son.

When he was little I could run and jump and be goofy and spin him like an "airplane" and everything in his world was right again. He would giggle and wrap his arms around my neck and nuzzle and cuddle and everything in my world was right again. Not anymore. Brian has switched it up just like those big ol' catfish snorting and grunting all the way making me reevaluate my approach and go back into my parenting tool box and dig around for new techniques. I am again left shaking my head wondering what to do next. Calm down. Breathe in...Breathe out...

Looking at these photos brings up a heap of emotions some I'm ready face and some I am unable to do so honestly so I stuff them back down until I am able. I will eventually. I miss my little happy boy who had his whole life in front of him. Don't get me wrong, he still does, but with much pain and sadness and things we never imagined for him. We see now the many little things we took for granted and think "Jesus what were we fretting about"? I said before it could be worse, and I am extremely grateful that it isn't; it is still hard for him and us, none the less. Perthes has taken our entire family down a different path than the one that we talked about or dreamed of. It has affected us as a family and separately alike and as everyone knows, we all deal with things in our ways, good and bad.

This year we are planning our annual trip home wondering how things will be different, knowing that things will be different. How we all will handle it? The wheelchair for one, fishing, running, playing, chasing the dog, emptying the minnow traps, feeding the fish, hiking the hill, building stuff in the shop with Spike, catching fireflies, skipping rocks in the creek, catching crayfish, throwing the Frisbee, taking night walks and all the other things we do when we escape from life. This year we will escape the shoobies, but life will follow us and remind us with an incessant nod, not unlike that of a bobble head doll, that we can't escape it or forget about it.

We're all going to be tested this summer, and through out this year, including the folks. They too are on a path they hadn't imagined for themselves.We're going to go through a lot of changes with a ~~sprinkling~~ flood of emotions through out; learning and relearning as we go.

Big breath in... hold it...and let it out.

Here's hoping we catch those big old ugly snorting catfish before they figure out what's coming. :)

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday- Yellow Boots

2010-03-19T08:53:00.002-04:00

Take care,

Things here are on the up swing.

2010-03-17T10:54:00.000-04:00

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday- Catfish Caboose

2010-03-12T11:50:00.001-05:00

Fully stocked with Cat fish. Four generations of spawned catfish as well as goldfish and koi.

This property is for sale. Check it out. http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Take care,

Miss is growing up.

2010-03-05T10:40:00.000-05:00

Kaiya is convinced that princesses get gifts and flowers from her prince and naturally she is a princess and she needs flowers. (Yeah, thanks Walt).

She has recently let us all know that she is marrying Bo because she loves him . Bo is a boy she knew from running around the peewee football field earilier this year. He was the older brother of one of Brian's teammates. 7 years older. She bats her eyes and flirts, while I think ," Really... ? Already...? You're 3. She hasn't seen him in months but still says it daily and matter of factly.

Brody right now is her prince and they play castle and have teaparties. He has also gotten very good at playing with dolls and dressing princess barbies. She's been very upset these days though as she feels she never gets mail sent to her so with these flowers being delivered and the cards and packages being sent from Grammy and Aunt Krista she is feeling especially pleased.

She desearves all the praise and presents right now because something has just clicked for her and she has decided that the potty really is a princess's best friend. Potty training has been a nightmare here. She has decided that "true" Princesses stay clean and dry and no longer have to change their dresses 5 or 6 times because they have poop on them. Princesses can however change their dresses 5 or 6 times because they are...Princesses.

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday- Dave.

2010-03-05T10:07:00.001-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Bass Pond

Stocked with Largemouth Bass, Crappies, Bluegill & Perch.

Take care,

Current Scrap projects.

2010-03-01T10:42:00.001-05:00

Anita over at http://bloominworkshop.wordpress.com/ has been using her scraps for some really spectacular quilts that she plans on gifting to some friends. I was so inspired by her creativity and the use of scraps that I decided to follow suit. We are planning on moving as soon as our lease is up at the end of April so I have been sorting, ironing, folding and packing all my fabric except for the scraps. Those have all been put aside and sorted into color groups. I have one bin filled with quilting scraps and another filled with 2 inch strips to be used for some toothbrush rugs. Have a look-see.

This is a picture of a finished quilt top measuring 88" x 52". I'm in the process of piecing a back from the rest of the Alexander Henry scraps until the are gone. I have a few blocks that didn't make it into the top so I am incorporating them into the and hopefull will be quilting it and the coin quilt soon.

This is the start of a Scrappy string star quilt. I am still unsure of the direction I plan on going in or how big it will be , so for now I'm just piecing by color. Off to do some more, banking and Princess games with my qirl. What are you doing today? Thanks for taking alook.

Take care,

Pot Holder Pass.

2010-03-01T10:14:00.002-05:00

I entered the Pot Holder Pass put on by Amy and sent them out a few weeks ago. I thought I'd let you see. My swap buddy was Nichole from http://modernquiltlove.wordpress.com/. I hope she liked them. I decided to send out some fat quarter bundles and some goodies after I received my pot holders and goodies from Katie. Round two of the Pot Holder pass is starting soon, you should check it out.

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday.- Reverse Painting on Glass

2010-02-26T09:53:00.001-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Custom jobs welcome.

Take care,

Score!

2010-02-22T11:39:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was a rough day. Lil' miss decided that she wanted salsa at 7:30 am and brought the jar into our bedroom with salsa cover slippery hands and accidently dropped it. She didn't mean to do it she just wanted a snack or so she said. The look of horror on her face was immediate. The look of horror and then anger on our faces sent her screaming down the hallway; slamming her door with her body and then slumping to the floor with a thud. A salsa bomb was delivered swiftly and effectively as it went EVERYWHERE. In the midst of our angry stomping during clean up we noticed a trail of salsa down the hallway leading straight to Kaiya's door. Upon opening the door and telling her we were coming in, she ran and took cover in her bed. Her dress and hair were casualties of the salsa bomb as were her sheets, quilt and toothbrush rug.

UGH.....

We went ahead and got everything bundled up to immediately put everything in the wash , got her showered and changed telling her in the sweetest voices we could muster ' it's okay honey we all have accidents. We know you're a big girl and sometimes even big girls need help too". Brody and I were both still furious he being much more vocal than I.

Meh... we got breakfast together and everyone dressed and discussed the events of the day.
I checked all my email entered a blog giveaway and replied to a post on my local freecycle group about fabric and craft supplies that were being put in the alley behind a house. We decided that we would stop by this house before we went on to do the weekly grocery shopping and errands. There was nothing left except some vases and platters by the time we had gotten there as it is first come first serve in most cases, and we were on our way. Brody did score a modem though.

Shopping with my family is always an adventure, good or bad, we eventually get through it, usually leaving Brody and I exhausted. This day was no exception. Things went downhill quick. The store was mobbed leaving Brian little room to maneuver his wheelchair through the crowd without smacking my shins or sweeping the legs of a little girl nearby. He loves to help me shop now as we give him an item off the list and he races off to find said item and race back. He's gotten very good with the chair, not so much with people around his chair. He's seven and tends to forget that there is a great big world filled with people all around him so a few people got their shins hit as well. Thank goodness that most of them gave sympathetic nods when he apologized, but some people were mad and we had to nix the racing. Brian was upset and started to get mad and curse his "stupid legs and damn chair". I shot him a look that said “um...excuse me" and gave him a hug telling him things will work out. It's tough for him, and I feel so bad for him at times.

Kaiya decided that she no longer wanted to walk but refused to get into the cart so she hopped a ride on the back of Brian's chair with her feet resting on the stabilizer bars. Brian was fine with it and soon forgot that he wasn’t helping and they made a game out of it. It was nice to see them getting along after a morning of bickering and annoying each other just because they could. People were enjoying the spectical my children were making of themselves, so all was right with the world at that moment. We finished up and ran the rest of our errands and needed to get them home for lunch and quiet time. The car ride home was a nightmare.

By the time we got home were all once again cranky and annoyed with each other and just all needed our own space. We had forgotten how wrecked the house was and that there was still so much clean up from the morning salsa bomb , laundry to fold, computers to fix and fabric clean up from my folding and packing project, making all the beds up again and just general clean up that we jumped into gear as soon as we got home. The kids were fed, kissed and sent on their way to quiet time. Brody and I having been together for so long and professionally worked together in the past , that we work very well together when the kids aren't underfoot. In about an hour we had gotten most of it done, save the laundry, which honestly was going to be a two day project. We both took a break and a breath deciding to relax a bit. He immediately went to play a game and I went to check my email and goof a bit on the computer.

It seems that the woman on freecycle still had the fabric and craft supplies; but that the original person didn’t come to pick them up and did I want them? I grabbed my keys kissed Brody goodbye and went off to collect these goodies. I'm so glad I did.

Included in all of this is a sewing machine and all the accesories . This will go to Brian ( if I can get it working) as he is desperate to learn to sew. A box of 30 plus floral ribbon with and equally big box filled with little silk flowers, Beads and hemp rope and instructions for macrame and lover's knot bracelets, all this fabric, spool and bobbin holders and some craft books, and sheets which were immediately cut into strips for toothbrush rugs and a lot more that I couldn't even list. If you don't freecycle in your community I highly encourage it. I have helped a few people and have been helped out many times including a nebulizer for the kids that my insurance company wouldn't cover and it is all free- recycling, reusing, reducing. Thank you Susan that which I can't use will in turn be freecycled. Off to play....

Good Trade Farm Friday- Custom made furniture.

2010-02-19T10:16:00.000-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Tiger Maple

Tiger maple stepback reproduction

cupboard with locally made hardware.

Take care,

Storm's a comin'

2010-02-18T13:03:00.002-05:00

What-are-those-yellow-looking-things-that-look-like-a-floppy-spinal-cord?

Miss Kaiya Mae and I walked the beach yesterday after dropping off our Ebay packages at the post office and came acroos a sight we had never before seen. There were dead crabs all along the shore line. The seagulls that were soaking up the sun had no interest in them as there were so many the likely got their fill before we happened upon them. It seemed like they went on as far as our eyes could see. needless to say kaiya was less than thrilled and commented repeatedly how "dross" ( gross in toddlerese) they were and how she didn't " like those "trappies' ( crabbys ).

We have started to pack and sort through things again as we were told that Brian is going to be casted and have surgery within the year for his Perthes. His right side will be first ,as it has collapsed, and the left has yet to break down so it's still too soon to say. We are definately moving, but are unsure if we will stay on the island. We've seen a few houses with full basements and backyards that are within our price range, so... How cool would it be to have a house party and let the kids go crazy and scream like wild banshees they are while I am comfortably sewing a quiet basement? So the next few months will be a whirlwind. For now, I'm enjoying my chai and getting seriousagain about sorting through my fabric stash. they are all so pretty i wish I could keep them all.

Take care,

A song By Kaiya

2010-02-15T08:25:00.001-05:00

Mommy and daddy and Brian and me are
family
family
family

Sharks live in the sea
family
family
family

Birds live in the trees
family
family
family.

Now imagine this being belted out at the loudest level a three year olds voice can go and you've got it.

Take care,

In other news...

2010-02-12T14:30:00.004-05:00

I’ve never been so happy to say that the storm is finally over. I generally love storms, the hustle and bustle as people get ready ; stocking up supplies and battening down the hatches. Living in a Nor’easter prone area for the last 18 years and coming from the southern tier of New York before this, has seasoned me. I knew there was the possibility that we could lose power, but honestly didn’t expect it. Wrong. We lost power and heat (gas heat, electric blower) for about three hours. The other side of the street still had power including the street lights, so we held out hope that it would just be a matter of time before it was restored.

I called and made arrangements to stay at my Aunt’s house for Brody and me and the kids and for Brody’s nana as well, whose power also went out. We were a little more worried about her than ourselves as she has congestive heart failure and is sometimes stubborn about getting help. We insisted she come with us if we left, rather than be evacuated to the high school gym to wait it out. Without hesitation, she decided to come with us.

I had packed bags earlier when the power blipped and I ran around before it went out again getting prepared gathering mittens, hats, snow pants and blankets, just in case. Brody warmed up the car and shoveled a bit but it seemed that no matter how fast he shoveled, it came down and lay thick again. He went down to check on Nana as she stopped answering her phone, while the kids and I sat on the couch with flashlights in hand singing songs and reading a book. It was nerve racking for a while as the kids were afraid of the dark and didn’t want me to leave the room even with their flashlights.

I finally got the bright idea after the songs had run out and the kids decided to wrestle and scream at the top of their lungs and generally just lose their collective minds, that the laptops still had battery power to watch a DVD. I said a little prayer and asked Ganesh to see us through and help me keep my sanity as the kids were just CRAZY and really LOUD! They calmed down long enough to watch a DVD and forget that there was no power, while I called the electric company to find out an ETA for power. 11:00 pm the following night was the earliest that they could say, leaving me to realize how unprepared we were for a possible 32 hour power outage. The heat was leaving the house quickly due to the time and the huge drafts around the “new “windows. So I had the kids start layering clothes as we were unsure how long we were going to stay. Brody really didn’t want to leave and probably wouldn’t have if we didn’t have to worry about kids and elderly grandmothers, ya know. We’d have gotten snuggly under the covers and gotten some sleep. Meh… that’s life right?

I watched as they evacuated the man a few houses down on our side. The fire department came and had to dig a path from the street and up the wheelchair ramp. It was nearly impossible to see them except for the reflective strips on their jackets. While watching the trucks, Brody called to let me know they were heading down our way and to get ready to leave and as I hung up the phone the power came back on. I raced around and cranked the heat as high as it would go and grabbed the makings of grilled cheese and chicken noodle soup and started making a quick dinner for the kids just in case it all went out again. Brody called back and said he was coming home. Nana decided to stay at her house and she would call if the power went out again.

The rest of the night was uneventful except the kids voicing their disappointment that we weren’t going to Aunt Aimee’s house. They were really hoping to “dump us weirdo parents” and hang with the cool kids. We watched the rest of the DVD that we had started and then read some more bedtimes stories and sent them off, Brian excited that school was closed yet again and Kaiya for the snow forts she and daddy would build.

I’ve been working on a new quilt project trying to use up my Alexander Henry “ baddanna” fabric in red. I had used it for the spider web quilt I gave my dad for Christmas. I said I was going to use just scraps from my stash, but couldn’t find just the right fabric to go with it, so I decided to buy it in black (on sale) when my friend Kate invited me out for the ride to the fabric store. I had a few essentials on my list but couldn’t find just what I needed so I will wait until later to get those items and continue using what I have here in the house.

What do you think so far?

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Grandkids

2010-02-12T10:42:00.001-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Take care,

Finishing up my Etsy inventory.

2010-02-10T11:33:00.002-05:00

I am currently building my etsy shop and get things tagged and for sale. The past few Blizzard days have been a great way to catch up on all my UFO's and WIP's . I am furiously writing descriptions that will evoke memories from your childhood saying to yourself " My nan had one just like that....." My goal is an opening before the end of the month. Until then, here are some pictures.

100% cotton fabric and upcycled sheets. All washed and cut into 2 inch strips and constructed using the toothbrush technique.

27 & 1/2 inches by 22& 1/2 inches

100% cotton fabric and upcycled sheets. All washed and cut into 2 inch strips and constructed using the toothbrush technique.

29 & 1/2 inches by 27 inches.

100% cotton fabric and upcycled sheets. All washed and cut into 2 inch strips and constructed using the toothbrush technique.

25 & 1/4 inches by 20 & 1/4 inches.

Take care,

Katie Rocks!

2010-02-09T11:02:00.002-05:00

I received my Potholders from the Potholder Pass that Amy put together. My secret swap buddy was Katie. I said that I liked retro 30's prints and specified artist's choice for colors and design as I really like the element of surprise. I'm so glad that I did. They really are beautiful and honestly I can't bring myself to use them as potholders and even worse have something spilled on them *gasp*. I have them hanging on my inspiration board instead.

Katie generously sent along a few fat quarters and extra goodies that she used in making these beauties. They immediatly got tucked into my 30's fabric stash to be admired and touched while dreaming of one day making a quilt for myself. I plan on using much of it to repair and replace damaged fabric from some family quilts that were handed down.

Katie, thank you again for the lovelies. I look forward to Round 2 of the Potholder pass and seeing your creations!

I got mine finished last night and am sending them out this afternoon before the next storm. I really had to step outside my comfort zone and did some paper piecing and after many mistakes and do - overs I am very happy with the finished potholders. I sure hope my secret swap buddy likes them and the goodies I sent along , and as soon as they are received I'll post some pictures. Today I'm off to get some supplies to finish the backs of two quilts and a toothbrush rug and get them listed in my newly created Etsy store!

Make sure you check out Katie and Amy's blogs as they are both extremely talented women.

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Flowers

2010-02-05T08:37:00.002-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Fox Den

2010-01-29T10:09:00.002-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

The Fox Den and the Koi.

Take care,

Block Printing with Brian.

2010-01-28T10:44:00.000-05:00

Take care,

I'm selling a vintage Coach circa 1970 Flap Style Handbag are you interested?

2010-01-28T09:13:00.007-05:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270522243450&category=63852&sspagename=rvi:1:1

This is a black flap style hand bag circa 1970's ,having a thin shoulder strap, heavy duty clip and release brass hardware, and a classic turn-lock clasp.

If you prefer the strap can be removed and used as a clutch.

Bag has 3 interior compartments plus a 4th one on the back.

Authentic Coach, No. 0701-301.

CONDITION: In good, clean vintage condition, with the usual signs of wear, minor scratches in the leather patina, slight surface wear on the brass. Will polish up nicely. Smoke free pet free home.

SIZE: 9.5 inches wide by 5.5 inches tall and about 2 inches deep. Strap is about 38 inches long including the hardware clips.

Take care,

What we've been up to.

2010-01-26T13:41:00.005-05:00

If you remember a few posts back, this was the quilt I was making progress on. The main line of fabric is Snippets for American Jane. My local quilt shop was having a sale and had these 2x6 scraps already precut and were selling them along with other prints in scrap bags. I snatched most of them up and decided to do a Stacked coin quilt of my own creation. I added many of my 30's reproduction fabric in the same color scheme to break it up a bit.

This is the pieced back it still needs the final edge attached .

This is the edge and the binding. I still have to make my sandwich and quilt it.

I decided to put this on the back burner for the time being as we have loads of doctor visits coming up for both kids and the follow up visit concering Brian's Perthes. We will be going in the next couple of days to get a bunch of x-rays (which are cool) and blood work (which is not cool) so we can take the films and labs to his doctor. We plan on talking to her about letting Brian use crutches while at home instead of the wheelchair as it has been a real struggle keeping him in it with out a lot of tears, his and mine. Hopefully we will be closer to figuring out where we go from here.

This is one of the potholder ideas I had for the Potholder Pass Swap. I have a few more ideas and have been practicing my paper piecing skills in the process. It's definately been a challenge for me as I am working with color schemes I'm not used to and are very different than what I think I'm good at. My sister Krista is much more adventurous with bold colors than I am. I do hope my swap buddy likes them .

This is the latest toothbrush rug I've been working on to sell. I have a grocery sack of precut 2 inch strips and it will be finished when the bag is empty. Thankfully it isn't something fine detail eyes are needed to make. I have been having a hard time lately with sewing and quilting since my 20/20 vision took a leave of absence, I've benn dealing with it but find that most of my work and reading has been done in a constant blur. I went and got glasses yesterday and will get thim in about a week. I picked a style that isn't normally "me" and I think the family's going to need some time to get used to them.. :)

Here's a little bit of E-Bay love with more from the Snippets line I will eventually make a quilt for myself with these fabrics.

Miss Kaiya and I decided to go and get our haircut.

She did such a good job sitting still.

Finally you can see her eyes!

I got my normal shag flip bob combo.

Excuse the dirty mirror.

Today after Brian gets home we are hoping to do some block carving to make our own stamps. I made mention of Valentines, he made mention of zombies so clearly we are each going to go our own way which is in the opposite direction of each other!

Life's good right now.I hope yours is as well.

Take care,

Picking Dandelions give away.

2010-01-24T11:13:00.001-05:00

Hey make sure you head over to Krista's blog to enter to win a prize. Leave a comment and pick a name for her baby quilt. It's that easy.

Take care,

Sunday.

2010-01-23T23:24:00.000-05:00

A poem by Brian .

Sunny days make me happy.

U make me happy.

Never sell me.

Days are fun.

A day with my mom.

Yes my life is good.

I think I may have made one too many refrences about selling him to the gypsies.

Take care,

Good Trade Farm Friday - Seasons

2010-01-22T07:44:00.021-05:00

http://www.goodtradefarm.com/

Feeding the catfish.

Spring Thaw

Late Winter- Early Spring

Winter

Autumn

Summer

Progress.

2010-01-19T11:31:00.001-05:00

Serious and Silly.

2010-01-19T11:13:00.000-05:00

Never drop your I phone into the toilet and other useful tips.

2010-01-19T10:12:00.000-05:00

Yes, you did read the title correctly. Yes, I did in fact drop my new I phone right into the toilet. Yes, I feel dumb. Well, it wasn't entirely my fault, really. Brody's arm may have bumped it while turning on the bathroom light and I was messing with the glow stick feature. Either way it flew out of my hands and my world instantly went into slow motion just like you see in the movies. It was surreal. I snagged it out as fast as I could, 2 or 3 seconds tops and watched the screen fizzle out and then go black. I had only had it for 4 days, and then it was gone. The worst part was we had just come home from date night while my cousins watched the kids for us so we could get some much needed adult time together. It was perfect. We also used Christmas gift certificate to go eat at a well loved, can never afford normally, restaurant. A great night out and a few good laughs with the cousins came to a screeching halt at the bottom of my toilet. UGH.

Oh well...it's just stuff right? Um...

I did some research and found that this is a quite common occurrence with I Phones and cell phones in general. I must say I enjoyed the ratings and visual descriptions Amy had on her blog. I had a few good laugh rather than tears and uncontrollable tantrums that were surely coming. Thanks for the comic relief it was definately needed. I shook out as much water as I could, vacuumed out all the ports and popped it in a bag of rice while I tried to go on with my weekend. I convinced a clerk at a local sundries store to let me rifle though make up bags to collect (read: hoard) silica packets. As a parent, I always cursed manufacturers who put those in their packages; I have since realized that I may have been a bit irrational considering all that has happened. Bring on the silica!!!

Wool Hooooo!!!!!!I can happily report that the phone works still with some quirks and there is no visible damage and I thankfully got off lucky ... this time. i will be returning it a few more days to the rice bag just to be safe. It could have been worse; it could have turned out like one guy telling the story of how he dropped his into a blue sani water Porto-potty. He eventually got his working as well, complete with a visible blue water tint under the screen and smells like poop every time he makes a call. We are still in the trenches of potty training here and I have all the poop one person can deal with thankyouverymuch!

So I will continue to dry this phone out and report back to you all I've learned through this experience. Who knows maybe it will be you one night frantically searching the internet on this very topic. Or not.

Have a great day.
Kendra

Good Trade Farm Friday.- Gypsy Wagons

2010-01-15T08:55:00.005-05:00

Good Trade Farm

Gypsy wagons.

Sneak peak.

2010-01-11T09:34:00.001-05:00

52 Fridays Spin off.

2010-01-08T17:47:00.002-05:00

I've notice some of the blogs I follow are starting a 52 week photo project that they post every Friday. Most are doing a self portrait, or a wardrobe refashion of some kind . Personally I have no desire to take pictures of myself or my clothes, but instead I am going to introduce GoodTrade Farm Fridays.

What, you ask, is that? Well it's my folks place. It is located in Allegany County , in a small town known as Friendship. It is somewhere we go every summer and long to be at during the rest of the year. It is our "home" even though we don't live there. It is where we go when all the shoobies are flocking to our beaches and our island for their summer vacations. It is outdoor paradise that is different yet similar. At the shore we go to the beach to swim and surf and fish for striped bass. When we go to Grammy's we swim and ride the ranger while doing some bass fishing. This year is obviously going to be different with brian's Perthes diagnosis, so it is even more important for us to get back "home".

They are getting close to retirement age and would like to pass their "dream" place to someone who would appreciate the possibilities. The whole property is for sale, including complete woodworking shop, business and home. If I may, I'd like to share with you a little bit of home.

Snow

2010-01-08T09:13:00.000-05:00

Have you experienced Fraser Smith?

2010-01-06T16:49:00.002-05:00

I happened across Fraser Smith's website during winter break and have instantly fallen in love with his quilts. You see these aren't just any quilts, they are wooden sculptures of quilts. The details and the "quilting" are so stunning you really believe it is a textile rather than wood. He has many other sculpture on his site of various items. Check him out. Fraser Smith

"If I am quiet, ...?" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 64" x 19" x 4", 2007

"Floating" Carved wood & Watercolor 65" x 42" x 4" 2002

"Passiflora" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 72" x 24" x 5", 2006

"Fat Tuesday" Carved wood, oil stain & mixed media, 68" x 23" x 4", 2006

"Relic" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 53" x 45" x 2", 1993-2006

"Improv 7" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 30" x 35" x 4", 2009

"30" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 36" x 53" x 3", 2002

"Oken Dish" Carved wood & Watercolor 68" x 36" x 4" 1999

"Surface Tension 4" Carved wood & Silk dyes, 72" x 23" x 4", 2005

All photos were used with Fraser Smith's permission.

Take care.

Popcicles for breakfast.

2009-12-31T10:50:00.007-05:00

Yes, you guessed it. The kids are sick little sickies. They have both had popsicles, ginger ale and chicken noodle soup for breakfast for the past few meals. It's the only way to ensure the kids are getting enough fluid. I really have to keep a close eye on Kaiya as she is the type to refuse all food and drink when sick. Brian never seems to lose his appetite. :)

Isn't this the cutest fabric?

Brian has a right ear infection, minor wheezing and some congestion but is older and able to get much of it out and maintain a normal day. Hot, hot showers have become his new thing. Between an antibiotic and regular nebs he should bounce back rather quickly. Kaiya on the other hand was walloped, and how. She has two pretty severe ear infections, start of bronchitis and has been put on antibiotics and some prednisone for the congestion. Poor little thing was/is miserable. If you asked her at anytime how she was, she would respond with "not well". Of course it was an adorable stuffy nose kind of way with a British ”Lola" ( from Disney's Charlie and Lola) like accent which of course made you feel even worse for her. She never complained of pain though. She has been taking her "puke bucket" everywhere she goes in the house. She makes sure to set up her princess towel underneath.

When Pollyanna was here the other night, Kaiya used a saucepan to cough into. It was pretty comical and very dramatic. Sick or not both my kids are still cute and funny as hell; I guess that's why I haven't thrown them to the wolves yet!

I'm extremely happy that this all has happened while Brian is still on break. It's been nice to try to stay a little longer in bed in the am tending to my own illness. Both kids' sleep has suffered due to the incessant coughing and they've been trying to sleep in. I now realize why my dad insisted I learn self relaxation techniques when I had my coughing fits as a child. You feel bad for them and you want to just tell them to "STOP coughing". I think how much easier my children & I have it then they did when I was a kid. We have nebulizers now. I didn't have one growing up. I had vicks vapor rub slathered on my back and chest and a makeshift tent over my bed with a humidifier or big steaming pots of boiling water so I could breath in the steam. I remember my mother hitting my back in a rhythm trying to break up all my congestion or I would sit at the table with my face over a steamy pot with a towel over my head. My kids can't tolerate either. I also have come to realize why they threatened me with a kid like me. Guess I was pretty bad. The powers that be decided I needed to get smacked twice. So folks, this is for you:

It's only taken me 30 + years to receive my comeuppance. I anticipate a lot more in the coming years.

We have been rearranging the rooms again to get the best fit especially in Brian's with his wheelchair. Sick or not, we have to switch some pieces of furniture between the kids rooms. The gold piece my folks made/repurposed/refinished/ for me is coming out into craft/dining area. I work and play better with organization. I wish I could afford a professional organizer to come in and take over my space and magically make it fit our lifestyle while I sit , smile and look pretty sipping tea. ah....

I have lost my new found creative zest due to widespread germs. I decided to pour through some of my craft books for inspiration and try and get it back. I found Quilting with Strips and Strings by Helen Whitson Rose and have been following Anit a's progress with her scrap quilts and think I may just follow suit. I have so many lovely scraps from so many different people in my past, that I think I need to reflect, remember and enjoy them as I sew them together into a quilt for myself. I think I will add some of the 30's reproduction fabrics into it as well. They just make me smile. I have a quilt top circa 1950 with 30's fabrics that my mother sent that was hand pieced by the woman who previously owned their house, that needs some attention. I have a couple birthday gifts and babyshower gift to make too, so I'm just going to take it easy a bit and find my groove again.

Goodbye 2009. Hello New possibilities.

Take care,
Kendra

Now that Christmas is over...

2009-12-27T22:13:00.005-05:00

I made these.

Sugar Body Scrub

Toothbrush rugs

Pot holders or hot pads depending on where you are from.

and I spread Peanut love. :)

Pay no mind to this it's just a test.

2009-12-27T09:35:00.002-05:00

CNQXJ297ZTK5

It is what it is.

2009-12-24T11:39:00.004-05:00

I have been sewing like a mad woman finishing up gifts for "holiday packages", I swear. After Brian's Perthes diagnosis, we all just kind of shut down and just laid around together watching movies and reading books trying to keep it as normal as possible at home ; all crafts just stopped. We had to go through a mourning process of sorts. Neither Brody nor I had a desire to look towards Christmas . We were anything but "giving or joyful", when this terrible life altering and painful thing was happening to our child. Our poor sweet boy. Instead I would go off and cry feeling mother's guilt and bad for him and our family and what all of this would mean for the next 2-3 years and Brody would just get angry. We really were starting to get twinges of bitterness. Okay, alot of bitterness.

Our bitterness has melted away and an overwhelming feeling of gratitiude has taken it's place. We are privilidged to live in the community that we do and have the friends that we do. We are thankful for the kindness that has been shown to us & to Brian during all of this. We are not accustomed to asking people for help, so when people just started doing nice things and volunteering their time to us, we were blown away. Thank you so much to all of you for your kind words and gestures it really has meant the world to us and to remind us that we are not alone. We are loved. Our families have been a great support. Old ties have been rekindled . We will get through this, because it is what it is and that's what you do. Things are good.

Okay on to the crafty part of this blog. I was reading through some of my favorite blogs, trying to find some pretty last minute gifts to make . I came across Wendy at Dozi Design and this tutorial screamed "MAKE THESE RIGHT NOW!!!!" She had made hers out of a heavy weight paper.

I decided I was going to use suede from an old skirt that I picked up at a yard sale, as it would require little to no sewing. As I started to make these, I got the idea to soak some very thin felt in Linit Starch and iron them to a crisp finish. I then followed the tutorial cutting out my spirals and started rolling them as it instructed. I added some green felt leaves, onto which I will hand sew some little details and add a pin backing that my folks had sent. This will defiantely be a project for many future events. Thanks you so much Wendy.

I wish you all warm hearts, full bellies and feelings of love and kindness during this holiday season and in to the new year.

Take Care.

The Blizzard of '09 as Philadelphia newscasters are calling it.

2009-12-20T11:08:00.005-05:00

Take Care.