I did my errands and Cottage-visit early and was home around lunch time. I've been alternating checking items off my "to do" list, reading, and playing on the computer ever since.
Tonight, I will be baby sitting for Bryce Eleanor. It remains to be seen whether or not I will see in the New Year or just join the merriment in the wee hours of the morning when Bryce gets hungry.
This year has certainly had its ups and downs, but I'm going to close the year with thoughts of the best of the high points and look forward to a clean slate in the new year on which to write as many good events as possible.
A big thanks to all of you who have read and responded on this blog, creating that strange but wonderful, virtual community that spans, not only the country, but the globe.I find the same pleasure in my book blog and that wonderful community of readers. I had no idea when I typed my first post just how much blogging would expand my horizons!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Procrastinating
Things have been very quiet around here lately. Fee has been out of town again, the Christmas rush and gatherings are past, and I thought I'd be busy sewing again. Not the case, however.
Oh, I've done a few finishing details on things, and a bit of embroidery, and - of all things- a cover for the heating pad. Fee's back was bothering him over the holidays, and he'd drag out the heating pad each evening trying to ease the discomfort while watching television. I got tired of looking at the sad blue cover, and added that to a list of the many projects I want to do.
Today, as I folded and straightened up some fabric, I saw this bit that would work for the cover and stopped the folding to make the cover. Took no time at all and was something I could cross of the list.
I can assure you it looks much better. :0
One of my favorite gifts this Christmas was from my lovely nieces -- one of Lainie's Ladies with one of my most loved quotes, if you are fond of Louisa May Alcott, you probably recognize it. I've posted this picture on my book blog as well. 
Meghan, above and Katie and Bryce below. Thanks, girls!
Oh, I've done a few finishing details on things, and a bit of embroidery, and - of all things- a cover for the heating pad. Fee's back was bothering him over the holidays, and he'd drag out the heating pad each evening trying to ease the discomfort while watching television. I got tired of looking at the sad blue cover, and added that to a list of the many projects I want to do.
Today, as I folded and straightened up some fabric, I saw this bit that would work for the cover and stopped the folding to make the cover. Took no time at all and was something I could cross of the list.
I can assure you it looks much better. :0
One of my favorite gifts this Christmas was from my lovely nieces -- one of Lainie's Ladies with one of my most loved quotes, if you are fond of Louisa May Alcott, you probably recognize it. I've posted this picture on my book blog as well. 
Meghan, above and Katie and Bryce below. Thanks, girls!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
More on Handwriting
Yesterday, I mentioned that I was working on my handwriting using the Vimala Rodgers' book
Your Handwriting Can Change Your Life and decided to expand on a bit on that subject.
How did I get here...attempting to change the handwriting that has served me for Lo, These Many Years?
Amelia and Erin (who have young children) have both been curious at different times about Montessori education. I'd also heard about Waldorf Schools, though I knew less about them. Research into the Waldorf system led to Vimala Rodgers, who has worked with school systems across the country and whose handwriting style has been incorporated into many Waldorf schools.
(slight digression, this excellent article compares the two methods, giving a better insight into both Waldorf and Montessori...and, uh, I had to increase the text size on the article)
That is the most recent interest in handwriting, but about 10 years ago, I met a friend of my best friend's family. The woman was a trained graphologist and worked with insurance companies and the occasionally the police, making determinations about individuals based on handwriting. Fascinating stuff.
I was hooked and went to the library, checked out several books on handwriting analysis, and found one I really liked, Handwriting Analysis: Putting It to Work for You by Andrea McNichol, an excellent presentation of material with tons of examples, some from famous people. I didn't want to return it to the library and renewed it a couple of times, but eventually I gave in and bought a copy. Handwriting analysis is truly an intriguing, surprising, and fascinating subject.
This past spring, my sister-in-law attended a workshop that dealt in part with the importance of handwriting and a bit about analysis. We often discuss developments in education, and she attends some great workshops (she is an adaptive P.E. teacher who works mostly with children with serious physical problems). Anyway, I ordered a copy of McNichol's book for her because I couldn't find mine...which is here somewhere...unless I loaned it to someone. Another search for the book is in order, and if I can't find it, I'm ordering another one.
So my interest in handwriting , graphology, and graphotherapy is not new. Rodgers' book, however, concentrates on teaching the Vimala Alphabet, which is very different from the old Palmer Style. The Vimala Alphabet has simplified letter formation and is sometimes called print-script, as many letters are formed without the connection to the next letter.
I am continue to practice, and I hope to be able to read my own journal entries at some point, instead of wondering what the heck this or that word is. The practice itself is - for me - a very calming activity. Now that I think about it, it is very similar to the feeling of hand quilting, knitting, or crocheting. If my improved handwriting results in an improved quality of life, that is a bonus that I'm more than willing to accept.
Your Handwriting Can Change Your Life and decided to expand on a bit on that subject.
How did I get here...attempting to change the handwriting that has served me for Lo, These Many Years?
Amelia and Erin (who have young children) have both been curious at different times about Montessori education. I'd also heard about Waldorf Schools, though I knew less about them. Research into the Waldorf system led to Vimala Rodgers, who has worked with school systems across the country and whose handwriting style has been incorporated into many Waldorf schools.
(slight digression, this excellent article compares the two methods, giving a better insight into both Waldorf and Montessori...and, uh, I had to increase the text size on the article)
That is the most recent interest in handwriting, but about 10 years ago, I met a friend of my best friend's family. The woman was a trained graphologist and worked with insurance companies and the occasionally the police, making determinations about individuals based on handwriting. Fascinating stuff.
I was hooked and went to the library, checked out several books on handwriting analysis, and found one I really liked, Handwriting Analysis: Putting It to Work for You by Andrea McNichol, an excellent presentation of material with tons of examples, some from famous people. I didn't want to return it to the library and renewed it a couple of times, but eventually I gave in and bought a copy. Handwriting analysis is truly an intriguing, surprising, and fascinating subject.
This past spring, my sister-in-law attended a workshop that dealt in part with the importance of handwriting and a bit about analysis. We often discuss developments in education, and she attends some great workshops (she is an adaptive P.E. teacher who works mostly with children with serious physical problems). Anyway, I ordered a copy of McNichol's book for her because I couldn't find mine...which is here somewhere...unless I loaned it to someone. Another search for the book is in order, and if I can't find it, I'm ordering another one.
So my interest in handwriting , graphology, and graphotherapy is not new. Rodgers' book, however, concentrates on teaching the Vimala Alphabet, which is very different from the old Palmer Style. The Vimala Alphabet has simplified letter formation and is sometimes called print-script, as many letters are formed without the connection to the next letter.
I am continue to practice, and I hope to be able to read my own journal entries at some point, instead of wondering what the heck this or that word is. The practice itself is - for me - a very calming activity. Now that I think about it, it is very similar to the feeling of hand quilting, knitting, or crocheting. If my improved handwriting results in an improved quality of life, that is a bonus that I'm more than willing to accept.
Friday, December 28, 2007
After Christmas
I've been enjoying this post-Christmas time. Of course, there were many things that needed to be done following the Christmas celebration, and I am still doing some of them, but slowly and with no deadlines. I like that part. No deadlines. I have been taking my time and relaxing, thinking about what needs to be done, setting a few priorities, and doing a little here, a little there, and trying to persuade myself to go ahead and purge the Christmas decorations. I didn't even get out many of the decorations, and no one missed them.
There are so many cherished items made and accumulated over the years, especially ornaments. Alll we put on our tree any more are the button hooks, but there are so many treasured little items that Erin and Amelia might want some day. I think I'll get two boxes and begin separating the items that each of them made or that were given to them and have their names on them.
Christmas pictures -- you knew they were coming, didn't you?
Amelia and Bryce
Erin
Mila and Bryce
Mila , trying on her lovely new coat from Aunt Mimi (Amelia).
Here was the big hit; I keep a bunch of latex-type gloves in the kitchen for washing dishes, cleaning the oven, and other chores, totally unaware of their entertainment value. Mila and Max had a great time with them.
Over at Marty & Robin's on Christmas Day, the youngest set of cousins are here for only a brief moment before more activity.
Amelia, Robin, and Bryce
Maggie, busy reading. A gril after my own heart!
I've spent quite a bit of time practicing handwriting using Vimala Rodgers' book Your Handwriting Can Change Your Life. The daily practice has been strangely calming and instead of dreading it or neglecting it, I've looked forward to the peaceful feeling that comes with the simple practice of letter formation. Trying to change your handwriting and your letter formation is a real challenge.
There are so many cherished items made and accumulated over the years, especially ornaments. Alll we put on our tree any more are the button hooks, but there are so many treasured little items that Erin and Amelia might want some day. I think I'll get two boxes and begin separating the items that each of them made or that were given to them and have their names on them.
Christmas pictures -- you knew they were coming, didn't you?
Amelia and Bryce
Erin
Mila and Bryce
Mila , trying on her lovely new coat from Aunt Mimi (Amelia).
Here was the big hit; I keep a bunch of latex-type gloves in the kitchen for washing dishes, cleaning the oven, and other chores, totally unaware of their entertainment value. Mila and Max had a great time with them.
Over at Marty & Robin's on Christmas Day, the youngest set of cousins are here for only a brief moment before more activity.
Amelia, Robin, and Bryce
Maggie, busy reading. A gril after my own heart!
I've spent quite a bit of time practicing handwriting using Vimala Rodgers' book Your Handwriting Can Change Your Life. The daily practice has been strangely calming and instead of dreading it or neglecting it, I've looked forward to the peaceful feeling that comes with the simple practice of letter formation. Trying to change your handwriting and your letter formation is a real challenge.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Christmas Eve
I'm reminded over and over again of how time flies as one grows older. Another Christmas! Hard to believe that the Christmases have piled up so high over the years; I've accumulated more than I care to admit, but would not have missed a single one of them. Christmas Eve -- the tree is decorated and the presents wrapped.
Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a very happy holiday season. December carries such weight in so many religions, and we are now beginning to see the days lengthen again after the Solstice. I'm liking the idea of the new year beginning after the shortest day of the year and hope that all of you find a fresh joy in this new year, whether Solstice or January initiated.
In visiting Kim's blog this morning, I discovered this lovely video that she received as a gift. Thanks, Kim, for sharing!
Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a very happy holiday season. December carries such weight in so many religions, and we are now beginning to see the days lengthen again after the Solstice. I'm liking the idea of the new year beginning after the shortest day of the year and hope that all of you find a fresh joy in this new year, whether Solstice or January initiated.
In visiting Kim's blog this morning, I discovered this lovely video that she received as a gift. Thanks, Kim, for sharing!
Days 20-22
Day 20 was a DVD of Ice Skating and Windham Hill. 
Day 20 Quote:
Day 20 Quote:So the shortest day came, and the year died,
And everywhere down the centuries of the snow-white world
Came people singing, dancing,
To drive the dark away.
They lighted candles in the winter trees;
They hung their homes with evergreen;
They burned beseeching fires all night long
To keep the year alive,
And when the new year's sunshine blazed awake
They shouted, reveling.
Through all the frosty ages you can hear them
Echoing behind us - Listen!!
All the long echoes sing the same delight,
This shortest day,
As promise wakens in the sleeping land:
They carol, fest, give thanks,
And dearly love their friends,
And hope for peace.
And so do we, here, now,
This year and every year.
Welcome Yule!!
- Susan Cooper, The Shortest Day
And everywhere down the centuries of the snow-white world
Came people singing, dancing,
To drive the dark away.
They lighted candles in the winter trees;
They hung their homes with evergreen;
They burned beseeching fires all night long
To keep the year alive,
And when the new year's sunshine blazed awake
They shouted, reveling.
Through all the frosty ages you can hear them
Echoing behind us - Listen!!
All the long echoes sing the same delight,
This shortest day,
As promise wakens in the sleeping land:
They carol, fest, give thanks,
And dearly love their friends,
And hope for peace.
And so do we, here, now,
This year and every year.
Welcome Yule!!
- Susan Cooper, The Shortest Day
Day 21 was simply several pieces of paper in various sizes, none more than about 3 inches either way, on which to write any problems, difficulties, frustrations of the past year that should be forgotten, left behind, let go of. After writing them down, the papers are burned and, hopefully, are released from your psyche and your life. We'll see if it works... A nice concept, nevertheless.
Day 21 Quote:
Day 22 was the birthday. We were supposed to go out to eat with Chris and Amelia, but by the time he got home (he had been out of town the last few days--again), he was too tired and asked for a rain check. His birthday and Christmas gift (and mine, too) was supposed to be the new H D television he has been wanting. He has now decided to wait for the after Christmas sales.
Day 21 Quote:
Do everything with a mind that lets go.
Do not expect any praise or reward.
If you let go a little, you will have a little peace.
If you let go a lot, you will have a lot of peace.
If you let go completely, you will know complete peace and freedom.
Your struggles with the world
will have come to an end.
insight meditation - achaan chah
Do not expect any praise or reward.
If you let go a little, you will have a little peace.
If you let go a lot, you will have a lot of peace.
If you let go completely, you will know complete peace and freedom.
Your struggles with the world
will have come to an end.
insight meditation - achaan chah
Day 22 was the birthday. We were supposed to go out to eat with Chris and Amelia, but by the time he got home (he had been out of town the last few days--again), he was too tired and asked for a rain check. His birthday and Christmas gift (and mine, too) was supposed to be the new H D television he has been wanting. He has now decided to wait for the after Christmas sales.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Day 19
I love the way the Solstice and Christmas traditions blend. Frankincense and Myrrh belong to both; they are blended in jojoba oil and ready to use (and .5 oz. of this should go a long way). Frankincense says "Sanctifying" on the label, and Myrrh says "Comforting."
Yule, is when the dark half of the year relinquishes to the light half.
Starting the next morning at sunrise,
the sun climbs just a little higher and stays a little longer in the sky each day.
Known as Solstice Night, or the longest night of the year,
much celebration was to be had as the ancestors awaited the rebirth of the Oak King, the Sun King, the Giver of Life
that warmed the frozen Earth
and made her to bear forth from seeds protected through the fall and winter in her womb.
Bonfires were lit in the fields, and crops and trees were "wassailed" with toasts of spiced cider.
- Yule Lore
Starting the next morning at sunrise,
the sun climbs just a little higher and stays a little longer in the sky each day.
Known as Solstice Night, or the longest night of the year,
much celebration was to be had as the ancestors awaited the rebirth of the Oak King, the Sun King, the Giver of Life
that warmed the frozen Earth
and made her to bear forth from seeds protected through the fall and winter in her womb.
Bonfires were lit in the fields, and crops and trees were "wassailed" with toasts of spiced cider.
- Yule Lore
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Day 18
Refuse to fall down.If you cannot refuse to fall down,
refuse to stay down.
If you cannot refuse to stay down lift,
your heart toward heaven
and like a hungry beggar, ask that it be filled,
and it will be filled.
You may be pushed down.
You may be kept from rising.
But no one can keep you from lifting your heart toward heaven--only you.
It is in the middle of misery that so much becomes clear.
The one who says nothing good came of this,
is not yet listening.
a prayer - clarissa pinkola estes
Here are some of the bags that are in process. I was doing hand quilting on them, but if I decide to finish these this year, they will have to be machined stitched.
I did finish one more hand quilted one last night as I watched my latest Netflix Lord Peter Wimsey mystery. I enjoy these BBC productions based on Dorothy Sayers' novels. This is a great way to relax, use scraps from old Christmas projects, and watch a favorite movie or television show.
Lord Peter Death Bredon Wimsey was "born" in 1890 and the novels are set in the 1920's-30's. Lord Peter's life is contemporary with that of the author's.
In How I Came to Invent the Character of Lord Peter Wimsey,[1] Sayers wrote:
| “ | Lord Peter's large income ... I deliberately gave him ... After all it cost me nothing and at the time I was particularly hard up and it gave me pleasure to spend his fortune for him. When I was dissatisfied with my single unfurnished room I took a luxurious flat for him in Piccadilly. When my cheap rug got a hole in it, I ordered him an Aubusson carpet. When I had no money to pay my bus fare I presented him with a Daimler double-six, upholstered in a style of sober magnificence, and when I felt dull I let him drive it. I can heartily recommend this inexpensive way of furnishing to all who are discontented with their incomes. It relieves the mind and does no harm to anybody. | ” |
from wikipedia
Although, Lord Peter is a fictional character, his portrait is included in the portrait collection of Balliol College at Oxford, his alma mater.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Last Post for Today!
I've been making a few gift bags a la' Lazy Gal Tonya, but have only managed (in the general excitement related to the new grandbaby) to finish one so far. Of course, I still have several other projects in the works as well --that may or may not be finished in the near future. Such is life!
Here is the one I made for Day 16; it holds an initial decoration and a little lavender sachet I made for peaceful dreams. The bag itself has become a sachet and smells of lovely lavender. Somehow, things got ahead of me, and I failed to attach a quote to this one so "dream" was the only text to accompany this gift.
I'm going to get ahead on this one. Day 17, is potpourri poured into one of a set of nesting boxes I bought several years ago. The lovely seeds in the potpourri intrigue me almost as much as the smell. It is already set out for Fee when he comes home this evening. He knows where to look and makes a beeline to the top of the bookcase to see his latest surprise.
Here are some wonderful gift tags -- funny and so true.
Here is the one I made for Day 16; it holds an initial decoration and a little lavender sachet I made for peaceful dreams. The bag itself has become a sachet and smells of lovely lavender. Somehow, things got ahead of me, and I failed to attach a quote to this one so "dream" was the only text to accompany this gift.
I'm going to get ahead on this one. Day 17, is potpourri poured into one of a set of nesting boxes I bought several years ago. The lovely seeds in the potpourri intrigue me almost as much as the smell. It is already set out for Fee when he comes home this evening. He knows where to look and makes a beeline to the top of the bookcase to see his latest surprise.
When I am liberated by silence, when I am no longer involved in the measurement of life, but in the living of it, I can discover a form of prayer in which there is effectively no distraction. My whole life becomes a prayer. My whole silence is full of prayer. The world of silence in which I am immersed contributes to my prayer.
thomas merton
thomas merton
Here are some wonderful gift tags -- funny and so true.
2nd Post - Still trying
to catch up with emails, comments, posts, blog reading, housework, gift wrapping, etc.
Bryce Eleanor went home with Mom & Dad on Saturday, slept all day, and kept them up most of Saturday night. They are all doing fine. All the dogs (Jezza, Boston Terrier; L.J. , Jack Russell; Lady Carolina Belle, English bulldog) are very interested in Bryce. She is interested in everything when she is awake. She will be having her 1 week birthday tomorrow.
Here she is in her "mob cap" looking as if she arrived from 1700 something. You can see the IV bruises on her hands here.
O.K. I'm back to playing catch up with other things!
Bryce Eleanor went home with Mom & Dad on Saturday, slept all day, and kept them up most of Saturday night. They are all doing fine. All the dogs (Jezza, Boston Terrier; L.J. , Jack Russell; Lady Carolina Belle, English bulldog) are very interested in Bryce. She is interested in everything when she is awake. She will be having her 1 week birthday tomorrow.
Here she is in her "mob cap" looking as if she arrived from 1700 something. You can see the IV bruises on her hands here.
O.K. I'm back to playing catch up with other things!
Fee's Gifts
Solstice traditions include wreaths and fresh greenery, so Day 13 was this wreath. The cardinal was supposed to have gone on the seeds for Day 12, but I forgot, so he got stuck on the wreath.
The sun and the moon dance and blow the trumpets,
The sun and the moon dance and blow the trumpets,and a little child shall turn the Wheel of the Law.
Secret of the body, of the Word and Heart of God,
His innermost breath is the steed of the Bodhisattvas.
Secret of the body, of the Word and Heart of God,
His innermost breath is the steed of the Bodhisattvas.
tibetan buddhist - marpa
Day 14 was a bell ornament. The bell, like the wreath, is associated both with the Winter Solstice and Christmas.
“Ring out the old, ring in the new, Ring, happy bells, across the snow:
The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true”
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true”
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Day 15 was a candle wrapped in a napkin of metallic gold (from several years ago...looked pretty, but totally impractical). Fee thought the package was so pretty and never recognized the "wrapping" as one of the napkins.
“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”Buddha
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Bryce Eleanor Chandler arrived Tuesday evening a little after 5:30 and weighed in at 6 lbs. 14 oz. Beautiful, of course, but I forgot my camera and don't know how to get the pictures off my cell phone (they aren't very good anyway). Baby Bryce has been running a little fever, so she is on antibiotics, but will be coming home tomorrow or Friday.
She has had lots of visitors as "the girls" have rallied round to receive the latest baby. Little Chris, K. K., Rachel, & Holly have already been up to see her bearing more gifts and good wishes.
Bryce is such a wee little thing, but she has certainly held everyone's attention!
Catching up on Fee's Advent gifts (thank goodness I had these wrapped, etc. and ready). Day 10 was a CD, A Highland Christmas: Carols for Scottish Bagpipes.
The quote:
Day 11 - Warm socks
I like these cold, gray winter days. Days like these let you savor a bad mood.
- Bill Watterson
Of course, there was no bad mood to savor as Bryce arrived on day 11.
Day 12 - Sunflower seeds to feed the birds.
Seeds and berries are associated with the Winter Solstice, and we love feeding the birds, so I made a muslin bag and filled it with sunflower seeds. There is a huge bag, too, but this one is just for show.
traditional gaelic blessing
She has had lots of visitors as "the girls" have rallied round to receive the latest baby. Little Chris, K. K., Rachel, & Holly have already been up to see her bearing more gifts and good wishes.
Bryce is such a wee little thing, but she has certainly held everyone's attention!
Catching up on Fee's Advent gifts (thank goodness I had these wrapped, etc. and ready). Day 10 was a CD, A Highland Christmas: Carols for Scottish Bagpipes.
The quote:I will not die an unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance;
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as blossom
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.
fully alive
- dawna markova
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance;
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as blossom
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.
fully alive
- dawna markova
Day 11 - Warm socks
I like these cold, gray winter days. Days like these let you savor a bad mood.
- Bill Watterson
Of course, there was no bad mood to savor as Bryce arrived on day 11.
Day 12 - Sunflower seeds to feed the birds.
Seeds and berries are associated with the Winter Solstice, and we love feeding the birds, so I made a muslin bag and filled it with sunflower seeds. There is a huge bag, too, but this one is just for show.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
traditional gaelic blessing
Monday, December 10, 2007
Tomorrow...
baby Bryce arrives. :) Amelia is sooooooo ready.
Finished the baby quilt last night and washed it because I love the wrinkled look. Used Orvus--no fragrance, very gentle, etc., so don't worry, Amelia.
front
back
I used an old memory card to take these pictures and found this doll that I made about 4 years ago. I made one for Mila and one for Ren's baby, so I don't know which one this is. They had really long arms and legs, and I made them from scraps of a dress for Mila.
I need to send the other baby quilt to Ren as she recently had another little girl, Chloe Elizabeth. I'm just waiting on the address as they've moved back to Louisiana.
O.K. , now I'm off on last minute errands, the Cottage, and I'll have to check my list for whatever else.
Finished the baby quilt last night and washed it because I love the wrinkled look. Used Orvus--no fragrance, very gentle, etc., so don't worry, Amelia.
front
back
I used an old memory card to take these pictures and found this doll that I made about 4 years ago. I made one for Mila and one for Ren's baby, so I don't know which one this is. They had really long arms and legs, and I made them from scraps of a dress for Mila.
I need to send the other baby quilt to Ren as she recently had another little girl, Chloe Elizabeth. I'm just waiting on the address as they've moved back to Louisiana.
O.K. , now I'm off on last minute errands, the Cottage, and I'll have to check my list for whatever else.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Day 9
Fee came home this morning, feeling much better, which is a great relief. Today's gift was incense.
Better do a good deed near at home than go far away to burn incense.
Amelia Earhart
Better do a good deed near at home than go far away to burn incense.Amelia Earhart
-----------
I finished the baby quilt and washed it with Orvus. I'm pleased with it and will take a picture tomorrow, but it is ready now for the name, date, weight, etc. Amelia goes in at 5:00 A.M. on Tuesday unless Bryce decides to come tomorrow.
I have quite a lot to do tomorrow, but Christmas shopping is all done now and the baby quilt is finished so I can get everything else done without having those two (most) important items hanging over my head!
I finished the baby quilt and washed it with Orvus. I'm pleased with it and will take a picture tomorrow, but it is ready now for the name, date, weight, etc. Amelia goes in at 5:00 A.M. on Tuesday unless Bryce decides to come tomorrow.
I have quite a lot to do tomorrow, but Christmas shopping is all done now and the baby quilt is finished so I can get everything else done without having those two (most) important items hanging over my head!
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Day 8
When Fee called last night, he wasn't feeling well--all stuffy and congested. Which lead conveniently to Day 8.
I had been unable to find a quote that had anything to do with handkerchiefs and so had been avoiding them, hoping to come up with an idea later. Well, Fee's cold gave me the idea, so I moved it up into today's slot and found the perfect quote to accompany them.
The quote:
I shall not die of a cold. I shall die of having lived.
Will Sibert Cather
My note just says, "I didn't buy the handkerchiefs believing you would get a cold, but since you did, I'm moving them up to day 8."
I had been unable to find a quote that had anything to do with handkerchiefs and so had been avoiding them, hoping to come up with an idea later. Well, Fee's cold gave me the idea, so I moved it up into today's slot and found the perfect quote to accompany them.The quote:
I shall not die of a cold. I shall die of having lived.
Will Sibert Cather
My note just says, "I didn't buy the handkerchiefs believing you would get a cold, but since you did, I'm moving them up to day 8."
Day 7
Rosemary for remembrance. Every garden should have some; it is also one of the plants associated with the Winter Solstice, a time for remembering and evaluating.
A Note from the Universe
I rooted the rosemary about 6 weeks ago, so it has a long way to go to look like much.
-----------------
Today was a full day. We took Laddie to the doctor to see about the rash. It isn't shingles; it is an allergic reaction to something, but they aren't sure what. We've removed all soaps, creams, etc. Laddie got two shots and loads more medications--3 more oral meds and two topical ones. The whole thing took over 5 hours from the time I picked up Marty until we had all the meds (part of the time was waiting for the prescriptions to be filled and going to two more pharmacies looking for one of the topical creams) --then we still had the party to attend...looking somewhat worse for wear!
If everyone wanted the same thing if everyone wanted whatever was super trendy
and wildly popular, or even if everyone wanted a garden, it wouldn't
change the fact that you could still have yours.
There is enough for everyone.
change the fact that you could still have yours.
There is enough for everyone.
A Note from the Universe
I rooted the rosemary about 6 weeks ago, so it has a long way to go to look like much.
-----------------
Today was a full day. We took Laddie to the doctor to see about the rash. It isn't shingles; it is an allergic reaction to something, but they aren't sure what. We've removed all soaps, creams, etc. Laddie got two shots and loads more medications--3 more oral meds and two topical ones. The whole thing took over 5 hours from the time I picked up Marty until we had all the meds (part of the time was waiting for the prescriptions to be filled and going to two more pharmacies looking for one of the topical creams) --then we still had the party to attend...looking somewhat worse for wear!
Friday, December 07, 2007
Day 6, , quilt progress, & e-mail difficulties
Trimmed, squared up, and made the binding for the quilt. Whew! Now I know it will be finished. There may even be time for the embroidery, but I'm not sure I want to take the risk. A pillow would be a good way to use the poem I wanted to include and can be done later.
Today will be busy, but now that the baby quilt will be finished, maybe this weekend some of my other projects can get a little time. The "All shall be well" piece for the Winter Class with Tonya is just staring at me.
Yesterday's gift went back to the Winter Solstice feast foods -- fruits, berries, and nuts. Pistachios for Day 6.
A haiku and two quotes went with this one.
winter dusk
the rhythm of her knife
chopping fruit and nuts.
- Elizabeth St. Jacque
God gives the nuts, but he does not crack them.
Franz Kafka
The nut doesn't reveal the tree it contains.
- Proverb from ancient Egypt
This one had to go out through e-mail, too, as Fee is still out of town. I wait until he calls (to let me know whether or not he's finished), then if he isn't coming home, send the picture and the quotes. I'm going to have to make tags and wrap several more in advance so that when the baby comes, they will be ready and I won't have to worry.
Notifications about email comments are still not working, but I checked "Known Issues" and it said the problem was fixed. Mine isn't working, yet. Keep on it, Blogger!
Today will be busy, but now that the baby quilt will be finished, maybe this weekend some of my other projects can get a little time. The "All shall be well" piece for the Winter Class with Tonya is just staring at me.
Yesterday's gift went back to the Winter Solstice feast foods -- fruits, berries, and nuts. Pistachios for Day 6.
A haiku and two quotes went with this one.
winter dusk
the rhythm of her knife
chopping fruit and nuts.
- Elizabeth St. Jacque
God gives the nuts, but he does not crack them.
Franz Kafka
The nut doesn't reveal the tree it contains.
- Proverb from ancient Egypt
This one had to go out through e-mail, too, as Fee is still out of town. I wait until he calls (to let me know whether or not he's finished), then if he isn't coming home, send the picture and the quotes. I'm going to have to make tags and wrap several more in advance so that when the baby comes, they will be ready and I won't have to worry.
Notifications about email comments are still not working, but I checked "Known Issues" and it said the problem was fixed. Mine isn't working, yet. Keep on it, Blogger!
Thursday, December 06, 2007
What's up
with blogger? I'm not getting emails about comments on my blogs. I've gone in and checked and re-saved settings, but still not getting emails. This has occurred several times in the last few days. At first, when I found comments without emails my assumption was that I'd inadvertently omitted them. However, that is obviously not the case.
'Tis the Season
Trying to sort everything out: Christmas gifts, baby quilt, Fee's birthday advent stuff, house, doctor appointments (mine & Laddie's), Christmas get togethers, preparations for various events including new baby, household chores, errands, etc., etc.
Until yesterday, when I realized that the rash on Laddie's hand and arm might be shingles, I was pretty calm and relaxed about this Christmas season. Somehow the rash threw me into a loop of confusion and of feeling overwhelmed about everything. I've been attempting to gather my wits and give priority to certain activities, but have not yet settled down. Funny how one situation can toss all other activities into the air. I'm overwhelmed by sudden indecision about what I've already done and what I plan to do.
A cup of tea and a biscotti are in order. Then perhaps I can settle into meaningful activities. Relax. Some things will get done, but perhaps not perfectly or on time. Some things will not get done. Breathe. Who cares?
Actually, having just typed those words, a sudden realization:
for the most part...I am the only one who cares, and even I can admit that wanting to embroider a particular verse on the baby quilt is not really important in the scheme of things. My attitude is what is most important. Wow, that relieves a lot of tension right there. Onward!
Until yesterday, when I realized that the rash on Laddie's hand and arm might be shingles, I was pretty calm and relaxed about this Christmas season. Somehow the rash threw me into a loop of confusion and of feeling overwhelmed about everything. I've been attempting to gather my wits and give priority to certain activities, but have not yet settled down. Funny how one situation can toss all other activities into the air. I'm overwhelmed by sudden indecision about what I've already done and what I plan to do.
A cup of tea and a biscotti are in order. Then perhaps I can settle into meaningful activities. Relax. Some things will get done, but perhaps not perfectly or on time. Some things will not get done. Breathe. Who cares?
Actually, having just typed those words, a sudden realization:
for the most part...I am the only one who cares, and even I can admit that wanting to embroider a particular verse on the baby quilt is not really important in the scheme of things. My attitude is what is most important. Wow, that relieves a lot of tension right there. Onward!
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Day 5
Day 5 Lemon Bath & Shower Gel
Let there be respect for the earth,
Peace for its people,
Love in our lives,
Delight in the good,
Forgiveness for past wrongs
And from now on, a new start.
millennium resolution - rev. peter trow - 1999
Peace for its people,
Love in our lives,
Delight in the good,
Forgiveness for past wrongs
And from now on, a new start.
millennium resolution - rev. peter trow - 1999
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Day 4
Day 4: Fee received flowers, a cyclamen, because cyclamen comes from the Latin that means circle or wheel. The circle or wheel is one of the symbols of the Solstice, and red is one of the Solstice colors (believed to deflect evil) as well as a Christmas color. The poem is Welcome Morning by Anne Sexton, and I've posted it before here if you want to read the whole thing. It is a lovely poem. 
Fee is going out of town again tomorrow and said he is taking his lap top so he doesn't miss any of his birthday/advent/Winter Solstice gifts.
Camille (Thimble Blossoms) is having a pattern give away on her blog. Her quilts are so fresh, vibrant, and fun!
I had to stop and clean up my sewing room today. The chaos finally got to me and functioning was no longer possible. Fabric had to be folded and put away, pieces of various projects sorted into baskets and plastic bags, notes gathered up in hopes of organizing them--although some notes are so brief, ambiguous, or illegible that it isn't entirely clear with which project they should go...
When the room was reasonably straight, pandemonium ensued once more. I have not forgotten the PIF gifts, but they must wait until after Christmas. My winter class quilt is also on hold at the moment. So much to do and our new grandbaby, according to Amelia's doctor will be arriving on the 11th, if not before. Everything is in place. Baby Bryce is ready, Amelia is ready. I have to see if I can get my doctor's appointment moved up a day so I will be ready.
Fee is going out of town again tomorrow and said he is taking his lap top so he doesn't miss any of his birthday/advent/Winter Solstice gifts.Camille (Thimble Blossoms) is having a pattern give away on her blog. Her quilts are so fresh, vibrant, and fun!
I had to stop and clean up my sewing room today. The chaos finally got to me and functioning was no longer possible. Fabric had to be folded and put away, pieces of various projects sorted into baskets and plastic bags, notes gathered up in hopes of organizing them--although some notes are so brief, ambiguous, or illegible that it isn't entirely clear with which project they should go...
When the room was reasonably straight, pandemonium ensued once more. I have not forgotten the PIF gifts, but they must wait until after Christmas. My winter class quilt is also on hold at the moment. So much to do and our new grandbaby, according to Amelia's doctor will be arriving on the 11th, if not before. Everything is in place. Baby Bryce is ready, Amelia is ready. I have to see if I can get my doctor's appointment moved up a day so I will be ready.
Day 3
Fee's day 3 gift was a another simple one: one of his favorite meals with raspberry cobbler for desert. No pictures of the meal, but I did manage a picture of the quotes before he got home.
This was a difficult one for presentation, so a ribbon and an orange had to serve. The larger note mentions harvest foods that are associated with solstice feasts. One is fowl and another berries. So the meal included chicken topped with an artichoke sauce that Fee loves and raspberry cobbler from the lovely fresh berries. The orange pays homage to the fruits that are also part of solstice meals and certainly associated with Christmas.. That note ends with "Happy Birthday x 3"--
The quote, which works well with the solstice idea, reads:
May the long time sun Shine upon you,
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on.
kundalini yoga--farewell blessing
I
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on.
kundalini yoga--farewell blessing
I
In December as the Winter Solstice approaches, the days become shorter. Ancients feared the loss of the sun, and on the solstice celebrated the sun's rising and gaining strength. This is a time of saying farewell to the old year and preparing for the new for midwinter is the turning point of the year and a time for celebration.
How appropriate to celebrate a birthday, a beginning of a new year, at the solstice.
I had not originally planned a quote for each day, but have found quite a few good ones.
How appropriate to celebrate a birthday, a beginning of a new year, at the solstice.
I had not originally planned a quote for each day, but have found quite a few good ones.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Lighting a Flame
Photo Courtesy of PDPhoto.orgFor those of us who need it, a link to an article about The Art of Appreciation. Here is the quote that precedes the article:
At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.
I'd love to know some of the people who have lit the "creative flame" within you.
I have some errands and chores that must be done, but this afternoon, I'm going to sit down and list some of the people who have been responsible for lighting a flame within me--creative and otherwise. The idea goes so well with the Winter Solstice and Advent season that I can't resist.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Day 2
I did the cleaning, cooking, and laundry earlier and had the rest of the day to myself. I worked on several projects and when I had a few minutes, I indulged in Kept by D. J. Taylor (I am so enjoying this novel!). There is an effusive post on my book blog...a Victorian mystery in the style of Charles Dickens. Excellent.
I froze some of the 15 bean soup for Amelia (good thing she likes bean soups) and some for us. Here it is cooling and ready to go to freezer or fridge.
Nellie has her mice done again for this year (Kimy - Mouse Medicine -, you will love them if you haven't seen them yet). Almost too cute to eat! No, wait, I think Nellie already said that! Don't they look snug in their little nest? I really want to make some of these!
My mouse-catcher is home, but no luck so far in catching the little critter that took shelter in the house. Next step...well, I'm not sure.
I added some of the flowers that are still blooming to Fee's ivy and put them in his bathroom. They look cheery!
-----------------
The mouse-catcher went to the office this morning, then down to Raft Bayou where he busied himself all day. When he came home I lit this candle; the second day in the count down to his birthday and the Winter Solstice. Fee seems pretty excited about his surprises (said he looked at his ivy this morning and hoped he would get something when he came home) which makes me feel good.
The invocation on the card is one I posted earlier, but Fee loved it, too.
We had bean soup and sandwiches for supper, just right for a windy, rainy night.
Must make progress on the quilt and some of my projects tomorrow. Absolutely must.
I froze some of the 15 bean soup for Amelia (good thing she likes bean soups) and some for us. Here it is cooling and ready to go to freezer or fridge.
Nellie has her mice done again for this year (Kimy - Mouse Medicine -, you will love them if you haven't seen them yet). Almost too cute to eat! No, wait, I think Nellie already said that! Don't they look snug in their little nest? I really want to make some of these!My mouse-catcher is home, but no luck so far in catching the little critter that took shelter in the house. Next step...well, I'm not sure.
I added some of the flowers that are still blooming to Fee's ivy and put them in his bathroom. They look cheery!
-----------------
The mouse-catcher went to the office this morning, then down to Raft Bayou where he busied himself all day. When he came home I lit this candle; the second day in the count down to his birthday and the Winter Solstice. Fee seems pretty excited about his surprises (said he looked at his ivy this morning and hoped he would get something when he came home) which makes me feel good.
The invocation on the card is one I posted earlier, but Fee loved it, too.
Life is short and we have not too much time
for gladdening the hearts of those
who are traveling the dark way with us.
Oh, be swift to love! Make haste to be kind.
We had bean soup and sandwiches for supper, just right for a windy, rainy night.
Must make progress on the quilt and some of my projects tomorrow. Absolutely must.
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